BBQ is often associated with beer, but did you know that wine can also be a great pairing option? Wine’s complex flavors and acidity can complement the smoky, rich flavors of BBQ, making for a delicious combination. In this post, we’ll explore the art of pairing wine with BBQ and provide some tips on how to elevate your BBQ experience.

Understanding Wine Pairing Basics

Before we dive into the specifics of pairing wine with BBQ, let’s review some basic wine pairing principles. The goal of wine pairing is to create a balance between the flavors and textures of the food and wine. This can be achieved by matching the intensity of the wine to the intensity of the food, considering the acidity and sweetness of both, and taking into account any dominant flavors.

Pairing Wine with BBQ Meats

When it comes to BBQ, the meat is the star of the show. Here are some tips for pairing wine with different types of BBQ meats:

1. Brisket: Brisket is a rich, smoky meat that pairs well with full-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Syrah. The tannins in these wines can help cut through the richness of the meat.
2. Pulled Pork: Pulled pork is a versatile meat that can pair well with both red and white wines. For a red wine, try a lighter-bodied Pinot Noir or a fruity Zinfandel. For a white wine, opt for a slightly sweet Riesling or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
3. Ribs: Ribs are a classic BBQ dish that pairs well with bold red wines like Malbec or Shiraz. For a slightly sweeter option, try a Zinfandel or a Merlot.
4. Chicken: Chicken is a lean meat that can pair well with both red and white wines. For a red wine, try a Pinot Noir or a light-bodied Zinfandel. For a white wine, opt for a slightly oaky Chardonnay or a crisp Pinot Grigio.

Pairing Wine with BBQ Sauces

In addition to meat, BBQ sauces can also play a role in wine pairing. Here are some tips for pairing wine with different types of BBQ sauces:

1. Tangy and Spicy Sauces: Tangy and spicy BBQ sauces pair well with white wines that have high acidity, like a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chenin Blanc. The acidity can help cut through the heat and tanginess of the sauce.
2. Sweet Sauces: Sweet BBQ sauces pair well with slightly sweet wines like a Riesling or a Zinfandel. The sweetness of the wine can help balance out the sweetness of the sauce.
3. Tomato-based Sauces: Tomato-based BBQ sauces pair well with medium-bodied red wines like a Merlot or a Chianti. The acidity in the wine can help balance out the acidity in the sauce.

Pour yourself a glass!

Pairing wine with BBQ can seem intimidating, but it’s really just a matter of understanding some basic wine pairing principles and experimenting with different combinations. Whether you’re a red wine lover or a white wine aficionado, there’s a wine out there that can take your BBQ experience to the next level. So, the next time you fire up the grill, grab a bottle of wine and get ready to elevate your BBQ game.