There’s something incredibly satisfying about enjoying a perfectly cooked steak alongside a glass of wine that enhances its rich, savoury flavours. While steak on its own is a culinary delight, the right wine pairing can take the dining experience to something else entirely. Whether you’re dining at home or in a fine restaurant like Hunter & Barrel, knowing which wine to pair with your steak can make all the difference. Below we’ll look at what is the best wine to drink with steak, whether you’re enjoying a classic Ribeye, a luxurious Tomahawk, or a tender Sirloin. We’ll also address common questions like ‘does white wine go with steak’, and if so, what are the best choices.
Why Does Wine Pair So Well with Steak?
At the heart of most successful steak and wine pairings are two key elements: tannins and fat. Tannins, found in red wine, are compounds that help to cut through the rich, fatty texture of steak, balancing that richness and cleansing your palate. The fat in steak, meanwhile, adds to the overall mouthfeel and flavour of the wine.
Both wine and steak also contain a range of bold, savoury, and sometimes smoky flavours. When paired correctly, these elements complement and intensify each other. Whether you’re opting for a red or white wine, matching the right wine to the right steak can amplify those flavours.
Best Red Wines to Pair with Steak
t’s a common question: Does red wine go with steak? Yes! Red wines are in fact considered the classic pairing for steak, and for good reason. Their tannins, acidity, and bold flavours are ideal for complementing the rich, meaty texture of various steak cuts.
- Shiraz: Shiraz is a popular choice for steak, especially in Australia, where it’s one of the country’s most iconic red wines. Known for its bold, spicy character, Shiraz pairs wonderfully with richly flavoured steaks like Ribeye and Tomahawk. At Hunter & Barrel, we offer a selection of Shiraz wines that pair beautifully with our coal-grilled steaks, such as our Henschke Henry’s Seven Shiraz or the Penfolds Bin 28.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Cabernet Sauvignon is often considered the king of red wines, and it’s a favourite pairing for the most flavourful and marbled cuts of steak, such as Sirloin and Porterhouse. With its deep, structured tannins, this wine’s boldness complements the richness of the meat. For an unforgettable experience at Hunter & Barrel, try pairing a Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon or a Yalumba ‘The Cigar’ with your steak.
- Malbec: Malbec is a robust red wine that originates from Argentina but is now widely popular in Australia. Its bold, full-bodied structure and intense flavours of blackberries and plum make it an excellent choice for steaks with a charred exterior, such as a Ribeye or T-Bone. Hunter & Barrel’s curated wine list includes fine Malbec options, such as Catena Malbec.
Can You Pair White Wine with Steak?
So on the other side of the coin: does white wine go with steak? The answer is again a resounding yes; the idea that white wines cannot complement steak is a misconception. In fact, certain white wines can make an excellent match for steak, particularly when paired with leaner cuts or steaks that are prepared with lighter seasonings and sides.
- Chardonnay: Chardonnay is a versatile white wine that works well with a variety of steak cuts. Its rich, buttery texture and subtle notes of oak and vanilla complement the sweetness and tenderness of leaner cuts like Fillet Mignon or Sirloin. Hunter & Barrel offers a selection of premium Chardonnay options, including Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay.
- Sauvignon Blanc: Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp, refreshing white wine that brings a zesty acidity to the table. Its citrus notes make it a fantastic pairing for leaner steaks that have been grilled or pan-seared with herbs and a lighter seasoning. It’s also a great match for steaks served with fresh salads, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a less heavy pairing. From Hunter & Barrel’s wine list, a Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc offers a lively contrast to the rich, savoury flavours of steak.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Wine for Your Steak
Establishing what is the best wine to drink with steak isn’t an exact science, but there are a few key factors that can help guide your decision:
- Consider the Cut of Steak: Lean cuts, such as Filet Mignon or Sirloin, pair best with wines that have a good balance of acidity and fruit, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. Marbled cuts, such as Ribeye or Tomahawk, benefit from the boldness of wines with strong tannins, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz.
- Think About the Cooking Method: The way the steak is cooked can also influence your wine choice. For steaks cooked on the grill with a smoky char, opt for a wine with some oak influence, like Shiraz or Malbec. For steaks cooked with more delicate seasonings, a Chardonnay or Pinot Noir might be a better choice.
- Pair by Doneness: The doneness of the steak plays a significant role in the wine pairing. A rare or medium-rare steak will have a richer, more pronounced flavour, and pairs best with fuller-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon. A well-done steak, however, may require a more nuanced pairing with wines that have a slightly lighter profile, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Consider the Sides: Steak is often served with a variety of sides, which can alter the wine pairing. A creamy sauce or a side of grilled vegetables might call for a more complex white wine or a red with balanced acidity, like Pinot Noir.
Experience the Perfect Pairing at Hunter & Barrel
For the ultimate steak and wine pairing experience, look no further than Hunter & Barrel. With locations in Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth, we offer a carefully curated wine list that has been handpicked to complement our signature coal-grilled steaks and enhance the flavours of your meal. At Hunter & Barrel, our expert service and extensive wine selection guarantee that you’ll have a memorable steak and wine experience that will keep you coming back for more.
