There’s nothing quite like a glass of red wine at the end of a long day. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a quiet night in, red wine brings a touch of warmth and richness to the table. But if you want to make the most of it, knowing what to serve with red wine can make all the difference. The right food pairing doesn’t just taste better – it lifts the wine too.
When it comes to red wine, you’ll find all sorts of flavours – bold, smooth, fruity, earthy. And that means not every dish will work with every bottle. For those looking to really experience what a good vintage can offer, it’s worth it to buy the best En Primeur wines, available now, and plan a meal that complements their notes. So, let’s take a look at the perfect pairings to help you get started.
Classic Combinations That Never Fail
Let’s begin with the basics. One of the most well-known pairings is red wine with red meat. It’s a classic for a reason. A juicy steak or a slow-cooked beef stew pairs beautifully with a full-bodied wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec. These wines have strong tannins that soften when they meet the fat in the meat, giving you a rich, balanced mouthful every time.
Lamb is another solid choice. A roast leg of lamb with rosemary and garlic works wonders with a glass of Merlot or Syrah. The tender meat and herby notes match nicely with the wine’s depth. If you’re serving something like duck, Pinot Noir is a great shout. It’s a bit lighter, with fruity hints that cut through the richness of the meat.
Cheese and Red Wine – A Match Made in Heaven
No list of pairings would be complete without cheese. But not all cheese goes well with red wine, so it’s worth picking carefully. Hard cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or Manchego are your best bet. They’ve got enough flavour to hold up against the strength of the wine.
If you’re pouring a bold wine, try it with an aged cheese. A strong red wine like a Barolo or Bordeaux blends nicely with an old parmesan or Comté. For something milder, a soft red like Grenache works better. Avoid very soft, creamy cheeses like brie or camembert with heavy reds – they can clash and end up tasting a bit off.
Vegetarian Dishes That Work Brilliantly
You don’t need meat to enjoy red wine. Plenty of veggie meals pair well too. Think mushrooms – especially wild ones or portobellos. Their earthy flavour goes hand-in-hand with red wines like Pinot Noir or Chianti.
Grilled aubergines, lentil stews, and roasted root vegetables all work great with lighter reds. If you’re cooking something spicy or with tomato-based sauces – like a veggie lasagne or ratatouille – try a Zinfandel or a Sangiovese. They’re fruity, a bit spicy, and stand up well to those bold tastes.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
Pairing wine with food isn’t just about matching weight and flavour. It’s also about balance. Try to avoid very sweet dishes, as they can make the wine taste bitter or sour. The same goes for food that’s too salty – it can overpower the wine unless it’s balanced with the right acidity.
Also, think about how you’re cooking your food. Grilled, roasted, or braised dishes usually go better with red wine than steamed or poached ones. Rich sauces and herbs help bring out the best in the wine.
Pairing food with red wine doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you understand the basics – like matching the body of the wine to the richness of the food – you’ll start to notice what works and what doesn’t. Don’t be afraid to try new combinations either. Half the fun is finding a pairing that surprises you.
Whether you’re planning a fancy dinner or just want a bite that suits your bottle, the right food can take your red wine experience to another level. So open a bottle, set the table, and enjoy the perfect match.
