BBQ Wine Pairings

A barbecue is the quintessential summer event, where friends and family gather to enjoy delicious grilled dishes and memorable moments under the sun. However, the success of these outdoor meals doesn't just rely on the quality of the grilled food but also on the choice of wine that accompanies it. A good wine can not only enhance the flavors of the grilled dishes but also create a perfect harmony between the aromas and textures. Yet, given the variety of dishes offered at a BBQ, selecting the right wine can seem complex.

BBQ around the world

Barbecue is a universal culinary concept that is uniquely expressed in different regions of the world, reflecting local cultures. In the United States, barbecue is a way of life, particularly in the South, where marinated meats like pork or beef are slowly cooked over wood embers, with each region having its own sauces and techniques. In Argentina, the "asado" is a true institution: pieces of meat are grilled on a "parrilla" or a metal cross, accompanied by simple condiments like salt. In Australia, barbecue is a social way of life, where meats, often sausages or lamb chops, are quickly grilled on a "barbie" by the beach or in a park.

In Spain, the "parillada" is a convivial tradition, especially in Galicia and Catalonia, where meats like lamb, pork, and seafood are grilled on a rack, often over charcoal embers. Spaniards also enjoy "pinchos morunos," skewers of meat marinated in spices. In France, the barbecue, or "grillade," is often a family or friends' gathering, with sausages, merguez, chops, and skewers, accompanied by grilled vegetables, all sometimes paired with regional wines. In China, the barbecue, called "shaokao," is popular in street markets and night markets. Skewers of meat, seafood, tofu, and vegetables are grilled on small portable grills, seasoned with cumin, chili, and garlic, offering an explosion of flavors typical of Chinese cuisine. These different practices testify to the richness and diversity of culinary traditions surrounding barbecue around the world.

Which Wine for Grilled Meats?

The art of pairing wine with grilled meats starts with considering the type of meat you will be cooking. For example, for red meats like a ribeye steak or lamb chops, it's advisable to choose robust wines that can stand up to the intense flavors of the grilled meat. Argentine wines, famous for their rich and powerful Malbecs, are perfect for this type of dish. Malbec, with its firm tannins and notes of dark fruits, pairs wonderfully with ribeye, bringing a depth that enhances the grilled and meaty nuances of the steak. Similarly, a Spanish wine like a Rioja Reserva, with its aromas of ripe fruit, spices, and oak, is ideal for accompanying lamb chops. This wine, with its solid tannic structure and beautiful aromatic complexity, complements the rich and slightly sweet flavors of grilled lamb.

For white meats, such as chicken skewers or marinated pork grills, the choice of wine should lean towards lighter options that won't overpower the delicate flavors of the meat. A light red wine made from the Gamay grape is an excellent choice. Beaujolais wines, in particular, are known for their freshness and red berry aromas, which pair perfectly with white meats. A Beaujolais Villages, for example, with its smoothness and liveliness, brings a lightness that balances the fat of marinated pork or the slightly smoky notes of grilled chicken. This wine also doesn't weigh down the palate while offering a beautiful harmony with the flavors of the meat.

Sausages and merguez, often spiced, require a wine with a strong character to balance the intense flavors. A Spanish wine like a Ribera del Duero, rich and structured, proves to be an excellent partner. This wine, with its well-present tannins and spicy notes, pairs wonderfully with merguez, whose cumin and chili aromas match the wine's natural spices. For those who prefer a more local option, a Syrah from the Rhône Valley, with its notes of black pepper, dark fruits, and sometimes smoke, pairs perfectly with spicy sausages, creating a harmonious match between the wine's power and the bold flavors of the meat.

When it comes to seafood, such as grilled fish or shrimp cooked on the plancha, the choice of wine should turn to fresh and fruity whites or rosés. A Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley, with its citrus notes and beautiful acidity, pairs perfectly with grilled fish, bringing a refreshing quality that cuts through the richer flavors of the fish. Similarly, a Chardonnay from Burgundy, especially when lightly oaked, offers a roundness that pairs well with seafood, while its tropical fruit and vanilla aromas add an extra dimension to the marine flavors.

Which Wine for a Vegetarian Barbecue?

For a vegetarian barbecue, where grilled vegetables, tofu skewers, and fresh salads take center stage, a rosé wine is a wise choice. Rosés from Provence, with their pale color, aromas of red berries, and freshness, pair perfectly with the variety of dishes offered. This type of wine, light and refreshing, is ideal for accompanying the varied and often delicate flavors of vegetarian dishes. For those who prefer a red wine, a Gamay grape wine, with its fruity aromas and smoothness, is also an excellent choice. This wine, low in tannins and easy to drink, pairs well with grilled vegetables and spicy dishes, offering a pleasant and harmonious tasting experience.

Summer Barbecue: Respecting Serving Temperatures

To fully enjoy your wine at a barbecue, it's crucial to respect serving temperatures. A red wine for a barbecue, such as an Argentine or Spanish wine, should ideally be enjoyed between 16 and 18°C to reveal all its nuances. At this temperature, the aromas fully develop, and the tannins soften, making the wine more pleasant on the palate. White and rosé wines should be served cooler, between 8 and 12°C, to maintain their freshness and liveliness, especially during hot summer days. An appropriate serving temperature enhances the aromas and ensures an optimal tasting experience.

Thus, whether you opt for a red, white, or rosé wine, the key is to choose a wine that harmonizes with the grilled dishes and adds a touch of conviviality to your meal. By considering the flavors of the dishes, the preferences of your guests, and respecting tasting temperatures, you are sure to elevate your summer barbecues with the perfect wine for every occasion. The barbecue, more than just a meal, becomes a true moment of sharing, where each glass of wine enhances the culinary experience, for the enjoyment of all guests. Cheers!