Exploring New Wine Pairings for Grilled Foods: A Fresh Approach

Many of you will likely be grilling this weekend, a beloved tradition among American food enthusiasts. The sizzling excitement of smoked ribs, steak, or barbecue chicken on the grill creates a great atmosphere for gatherings with friends and family. With your tongs in one hand, don’t forget to grab a glass of wine in the other.

When it comes to pairing wine with grilled foods, it’s essential to think beyond the traditional choices like tannic cabernet sauvignons, especially if beef isn’t on the menu. Instead, opt for wines that are fruit-forward or even slightly sweet, as these will complement the often ketchup-based sauces that accompany ribs or chicken. With grilled dishes being heavily seasoned or topped with sauces, selecting the right wine revolves more around the flavors added to the food.

Here are some wine recommendations that pair wonderfully with grilled meals:

• Rosé: This versatile wine offers bright acidity, making it a match for cheese, veggies, chicken, and fish. It’s perfect for kicking off the meal with light appetizers.
• Zinfandel: The fruity profile of California zinfandel pairs nicely with sweet barbecue sauces.
• GSM Blend: A mix of grenache, syrah, and mourvèdre boasts acidity and fruitiness, making it ideal for burgers, pizza, chicken, and pulled pork.
• Sauvignon Blanc: Preferred for grilled foods, this wine’s citrus and herbal notes pair well with chicken dishes seasoned with herbs or citrus.
• Pinot Gris/Pino Grigio: Light, crisp, and featuring pear and apple notes, these wines complement a variety of outdoor fare.
• Sangiovese: Known for its ripe red berry flavors, this tuscan grape works well with grilled pork, beef, and sauced chicken.

Recent tastings of grill-friendly wines revealed some exciting selections:

Quinta Nova Unoaked Red Blend 2022 ($28): A vibrant blend of Portuguese grapes with juicy plum and black cherry flavors—perfect for grilled meats.

Cattleya “The Initiation” Syrah 2024 ($70): From the Santa Lucia Highlands, this single-vineyard wine is unfiltered and offers floral notes followed by delicious blackberry and cherry.

Table Wine California Red 2025 ($30): A blend of malbec, cabernet franc, and merlot, this wine is light and refreshing, ideal for summer grilling.

San Felice Chianti Classico 2022 ($16-$24): With a sturdy character, this sangiovese can handle smoky flavors, making it a great choice for burgers.

Cline Family Cellars Ancient Vines Zinfandel Contra Costa 2022 ($22): A superb choice with fresh strawberry and raspberry notes, enhanced by a touch of vanilla.

In the world of wine, personal stories also add flavor. Mike and Sandy Davis transitioned from a technology business to fulfilling their dream of owning a winery. Since 2011, they’ve been crafting fine wines on a picturesque property in Napa Valley.

Some highlights from their wine selections include:

Davis Estates Cabernet Franc Napa Valley 2023 ($115): Aromatic with a palate of blackberries and cherries, accented by olives and tobacco.

Davis Estates Zephyr 2022 ($135): A Bordeaux-style blend showcasing herbal aromas and rich fruit flavors.

Davis Estates Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 ($155): Characterized by dark color and earthy notes, blending ripe fruit flavors with licorice hints.

For something lighter, consider Cambria Txiki 2025 ($22): A refreshing chardonnay at just 10.5% alcohol, inspired by Basque wines, featuring clean notes of white peach.

Whether firing up the grill or selecting the perfect wine, make the most of your summer gatherings with these thoughtful pairings.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!