Wine & Steak: Finding The Perfect Pairing
Everyone knows that steak and wine are a match made in heaven, although what wine you select can make all the difference! From flame-kissed sirloin strips to succulent rib-eye, each cut deserves a unique wine companion to bring out the best flavors and textures. You may be surprised by how subtle nuances of steak and wine bring out the best in each other. Here are some tips!
Let’s start with seasoning – when in doubt keep it simple! Salt and a good portion of coarsely ground black pepper, allow the cut to flourish within its natural flavors. For something like a Rib-Eye which is usually characterized by its mouth-watering juiciness due to its higher level of fattiness. Many experts recommend pairing rib-eye with a Cabernet Sauvignon due to its higher tannin's which will help balance this savory piece of meat. Another great choice would be a spicier Zinfandel, fruitier wines contrast well with the robust meatiness in certain cuts.
Here are few of our selections for a savory Rib-Eye
The Calling Alexander Valley Gold Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
Price: $43.75
This full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon presents blackberry and plum aromatics typical of the Alexander Valley. On the palate, the rich fruit is complemented by accents of sweet tobacco, vanilla, chocolate and mocha. The elegant tannins, oak structure and balanced acidity will age this wine for 10-12 years.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
Price: $30.25
Chateau St. Michelle craft their Columbia Valley Cabernet to highlight concentrated Washington red fruit in an accessible style. This is an inviting Cab with plenty of complexity and structure with silky tannins. It’s also very versatile with food. Enjoy it with beef tenderloin or pasta.
Let’s switch over to a much more delicate choice; Filet Mignon. Due to its lighter and delicate nature, you are going to want a wine that complements these characteristics. A light Pinot Noir is an excellent choice due to its pleasant fruitiness and subtle oakiness, complementing rather than overpowering. Filet Mignon matches with wonderfully with Malbec as well, the boldness and velvety tannin's complement the flavor and mouthfeel of the filet.
Here are few of our selections for a mouth-watering Filet Mignon
Au Contraire Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2014
Price: $38.40
Elegant, silky, layered, and complex, this Pinot Noir displays notes of ripe cherry, raspberry and plum with a hint of violet surrounded by subtle spice.
Doña Paula Estate Malbec 2018
Price: $21.50
Intense violet color. In the nose, aromas of black fruits, violets and spices. Mineral and graphite notes. Great balance and freshness in the mouth, with good concentration and medium structure. Soft tannins and persistent finish.
There is a big world of hearty red wines out there and a varied selection of cuts and preparations of beef. So be adventurous. Steak is a comfort food that will give you the security to venture out into the wide untraveled world of big red wines.
Let’s start with seasoning – when in doubt keep it simple! Salt and a good portion of coarsely ground black pepper, allow the cut to flourish within its natural flavors. For something like a Rib-Eye which is usually characterized by its mouth-watering juiciness due to its higher level of fattiness. Many experts recommend pairing rib-eye with a Cabernet Sauvignon due to its higher tannin's which will help balance this savory piece of meat. Another great choice would be a spicier Zinfandel, fruitier wines contrast well with the robust meatiness in certain cuts.
Here are few of our selections for a savory Rib-Eye
The Calling Alexander Valley Gold Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
Price: $43.75
This full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon presents blackberry and plum aromatics typical of the Alexander Valley. On the palate, the rich fruit is complemented by accents of sweet tobacco, vanilla, chocolate and mocha. The elegant tannins, oak structure and balanced acidity will age this wine for 10-12 years.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
Price: $30.25
Chateau St. Michelle craft their Columbia Valley Cabernet to highlight concentrated Washington red fruit in an accessible style. This is an inviting Cab with plenty of complexity and structure with silky tannins. It’s also very versatile with food. Enjoy it with beef tenderloin or pasta.
Let’s switch over to a much more delicate choice; Filet Mignon. Due to its lighter and delicate nature, you are going to want a wine that complements these characteristics. A light Pinot Noir is an excellent choice due to its pleasant fruitiness and subtle oakiness, complementing rather than overpowering. Filet Mignon matches with wonderfully with Malbec as well, the boldness and velvety tannin's complement the flavor and mouthfeel of the filet.
Here are few of our selections for a mouth-watering Filet Mignon
Au Contraire Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2014
Price: $38.40
Elegant, silky, layered, and complex, this Pinot Noir displays notes of ripe cherry, raspberry and plum with a hint of violet surrounded by subtle spice.
Doña Paula Estate Malbec 2018
Price: $21.50
Intense violet color. In the nose, aromas of black fruits, violets and spices. Mineral and graphite notes. Great balance and freshness in the mouth, with good concentration and medium structure. Soft tannins and persistent finish.
There is a big world of hearty red wines out there and a varied selection of cuts and preparations of beef. So be adventurous. Steak is a comfort food that will give you the security to venture out into the wide untraveled world of big red wines.