How to Pair Red Wines: The Best Varieties for Steak, Chops, and Seafood Dinners
The perfect wine can turn a meal into an experience.
Here at DC STEAKHOUSE, our experts recommend wine pairings based on the taste of the meat, the flavor of the seasonings, the seasoning, the sides…and those are just some of the details. Finding the perfect pairing also depends on the region the wine is from, the variety of grape, and the tannins present in the final product.
And with red wines there’s such a wide variety that there’s a perfect pairing for any meal. Whether you’re dining on steak, chops, or seafood, we can always find the perfect red to make your dinner even more exceptional.
The Tannins in Red Wines Can Enhance Flavors
Did you know that the tannins in red wine literally create sensations in your mouth? The tannin molecules bind to your saliva and give your mouth that smacky “dry” feel. This dryness is one of the reasons that red wines pair so well with fatty, juicy steaks, properly cooked pork chops, and fatty seafood.
Since tannins can vary greatly between types of grapes, each variety pairs better with some meals than others. A basic rule of thumb for pairing is: The fattier the meat, the drier the wine.
The Best Red Wine Pairings for Steak
For Ribeye: Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel
Ribeye steaks go best with reds that are BOLD, FULL BODIED, and DRY. This usually means darker reds that are fruit-forward and give your tongue that “pucker.” You would taste fruits like blackberries, black currants, and plum first, before the secondary flavors like vanilla, spices, coffee, or tobacco. and full of fat-cutting tannins.
Our favorites are Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel. Both of these embody the above, a perfect contrast to the silky texture of a juicy steak.
For Filet Mignon: Pinot Noir
A filet mignon is a soft, tender, flavorful cut of steak. This steak can sometimes be overpowered by a tannin-rich wine like the two varieties above. For this, you need to look for a wine that is smooth, fruit-forward, with an earthy richness that doesn't overwhelm the taste of a filet.
Luckily, a Pinot Noir fits the bill exactly. One of our favorites is the Belle Glos ‘Dairyman’, known for its bright flavor with undertones of chocolate. We love it with our filet and some perfectly sauteed mushrooms.
For Sirloin or Leaner Cuts: Malbec
Like the lean filet minion, you should look for a wine that is a little fruity, has a back hint of campfire smoke, and an earthy note at the end. While you could go with a Pinot Noir, you might also like a Malbec. Typically from South America, this variety has the same earthy underlying flavors but a little more acid to help intensify the flavor of a leaner steak.
The Best Red Wines to Pair with Chops
Pork Chops: Pinot Noir or Merlot
Pork chops are a delicious, lean cut of meat that can be just as satisfying as a juicy steak. However, you don’t want your wine choice to overwhelm the dish. For pork chops, the most popular wine pairing is an easygoing Pinot Noir. However, we also love a good Merlot with pork. The softer tannins and higher acidity allow the wine to stand on its own, without overpowering the mild flavors of the meat.
Lamb Chops: Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec
Like a steak, the fattiness of the cut will help determine the type of wine you choose. If it is a fattier cut, or you picked one of our richer sides (like the lobster mac), you’ll probably want a Cabernet Sauvignon or our Rombauer Zinfandel to help balance the richness of your meal. However, if you went for a lighter side dish, like roasted vegetables or a salad, we would suggest a lighter, drier wine like a Malbec.
The Best Red Wines for Seafood Dinners
Who said you can't pair red wine with seafood?! As long as you pick the right one, it won’t overpower the lightness of the fish. For seafood dishes, the best red wine is a light Pinot Noir or another red that’s low in tannins and won’t leave a metallic taste in your mouth.
Reds and More At DC STEAKHOUSE
For the best wine list and the best fine dining in Chandler, join us at DC STEAKHOUSE for dinner. From our perfectly cooked steaks and chops to our fresh seafood dishes and delectable desserts, you’ll be sure to find something you love. And our staff are here to help you find the perfect pairings for your palate.
For a seat at our table, make a reservation online, or contact our host stand for parties of six or more.