One of my favorite things about Summer is the ease of putting together a great meal straight off the grill. With minimal time and effort, pairings like burgers and Malbec, BBQ ribs and Shiraz, grilled salmon and Pinot Noir, and steak and Cabernet Sauvignon come together seamlessly. There’s also a more relaxed vibe, so pretty much anything goes when choosing the wine. I’ve mentioned four already, but some others that I love to include on the patio table are Zinfandel, white Côtes du Rhône, and Grüner Veltliner.
Pretty much any producer can make a welcome accompaniment, but here are a few of my favorites:
Malbec
When it comes to Malbec, I’m usually a sucker for Cahors. This French region is home to some fantastic producers including Domaine Cosse et Maisonneuve (who do a lovely bottling called “Solis”) and Château Pécot (this little gem is small on production and big on flavor).
Syrah
Syrah is another go-to pairing with the charred goodness of grilled meat. If you want to go big – get a bottle of Gramercy Cellars “The Deuce” Syrah, grill up a lamb burger, and enjoy the magic that unfolds in your mouth. Hope Estate “The Ripper” Shiraz is also a fine choice due to it’s surprising complexity for an introductory tier Shiraz.
Pinot Noir
For lighter cuts of meat and heartier fish like Salmon and Swordfish, Pinot Noir does a great job of rounding out the protein without overpowering the flavors. My biggest Burgundian value thus far is the lightly smoky and charmingly austere Domaine des Remparts, Côtes D’Auxerre Pinot Noir. For a lighter and fruitier profile while still staying true to the varietal, Left Coast Cellars “Cali’s Cuvee” from Willamette Valley never disappoints.
Cabernet Sauvignon
On the Cabernet Sauvignon front, a nice quality Bordeaux that doesn’t break the bank is Le Haut Medoc d’Issan. Technically a Cabernet Sauvignon based blend with Merlot, it’s full flavor profile and spicy finish make it a no-brainer. Hoopes Vineyard “Hoopla” Cabernet Sauvignon out of California is another exceedingly delicious wine that outdrinks its price point and deserves a spot at many a table type (not just the picnic variety).
Zinfandel
If Zinfandel is more your thing, Sobon Estate could be your newest grilling companion, as it combines abundant flavor and a value-driven price. For a stylish summer occasion bottle, I usually go with Day Zinfandel. Not only is this an Ehren Jordan project, but it also goes with anything from savory burgers to sweet chocolate Pain de Gênes.
White Wines
What about white wines? Few white wines are as versatile as a solid quality Côtes du Rhône. Two of my favorite producers in this category are Guigal and Jaboulet. Another fun white wine to serve during a meal that focuses on vegetables is a Grüner Veltliner. Pratsch and Laurenz V always step up to the plate and deliver a bright, lifted note perfect for those looking for a lighter approach.
So, get out there, fire up that grill and serve up some inspiration like a pro with these pairings!
*Photo Credit / Adobe Stock Images
