Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy a meal outdoors. While the focus is often on the food, the right wine or spirit pairing can elevate your grilling experience to new heights. From robust reds that complement smoky meats to crisp whites that enhance grilled seafood and refreshing spirits that add a kick to your barbecue, here’s a guide to perfect wine and spirit pairings for your summer grill sessions.
1. Classic Burgers and Zinfandel
Few things are as satisfying as a juicy burger fresh off the grill. A wine with bold fruit flavors and a touch of spice best complements a well-seasoned burger’s rich, savory flavors. Zinfandel is an excellent choice with its jammy black fruit notes and peppery finish. The wine’s acidity cuts through the burger’s fat, while its robust body stands up to the flavors of grilled beef.
2. Grilled Vegetables and Sauvignon Blanc
Grilled vegetables offer a delicious and healthy option for those who prefer lighter fare. Pairing them with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc can enhance their fresh, vibrant flavors. Sauvignon Blanc’s high acidity and citrus notes highlight the natural sweetness of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus. At the same time, its herbal undertones complement the charred, smoky flavors from the grill.
3. Barbecue Ribs and Bourbon
Barbecue ribs coated in a smoky sauce call for a pairing that can match their intensity. With its caramel and vanilla notes, Bourbon pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. The spirit’s smoky, woody undertones enhance the flavors of the ribs, creating a harmonious balance between the food and the drink. For a refreshing twist, try a bourbon-based cocktail like a Bourbon Smash, which combines bourbon with fresh mint, lemon, and a touch of sweetness.
4. Grilled Chicken and Chardonnay
Grilled chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with various wines, but a buttery Chardonnay is a standout choice. The creamy texture and oak-influenced flavors of a well-aged Chardonnay complement the subtle flavors of grilled chicken, especially if it’s been marinated in herbs and lemon. The wine’s acidity also helps to cut through any richness from marinades or sauces.
5. Seafood and Rosé
Summer is synonymous with fresh seafood, and there’s no better wine to pair with it than a crisp, dry Rosé. The light, fruity notes of Rosé enhance the delicate flavors of grilled fish, shrimp, and scallops. Its refreshing acidity balances the salty sweetness of seafood, making it a perfect match for a hot summer day. A Provence Rosé, known for its elegance and minerality, is an excellent choice for this pairing.
6. Steaks and Cabernet Sauvignon
A perfectly grilled steak is a classic choice for a summer barbecue, and it deserves an equally classic wine pairing. Cabernet Sauvignon, with its full body, firm tannins, and dark fruit and spice flavors, is the ideal companion for a juicy steak. The wine’s structure and intensity match the bold flavors of grilled beef, creating a powerful pairing.
7. Grilled Sausages and Beer
While wine and spirits are fantastic options for almost all dishes, beer is a classic choice for grilled sausages. The carbonation and slight bitterness of a well-chosen beer can cleanse the palate and enhance the flavors of savory sausages. A hoppy IPA can cut through the meat’s richness, while a malty lager can complement its flavors. Try a spicy sausage with a Belgian Dubbel, which offers complex, fruity, and spicy notes for a more adventurous pairing.
8. Grilled Pineapple and Rum
Grilled pineapple, with its caramelized sweetness, is a delightful dessert that pairs beautifully with rum. The tropical flavors of rum, especially a dark or spiced variety, echo the sweetness of the pineapple and add a warming depth. A simple Rum Punch with rum, pineapple juice, and a splash of lime can be a refreshing way to enjoy this pairing.
9. Pork Chops and Pinot Noir
Grilled pork chops, with their juicy and slightly sweet flavor, pair wonderfully with a medium-bodied Pinot Noir. The wine’s bright acidity and red fruit flavors complement the pork without overpowering it. The subtle earthiness of Pinot Noir also adds a layer of complexity to the pairing.
10. Grilled Corn and Chenin Blanc
Grilled corn on the cob, slathered in butter and sprinkled with salt, is a summer staple. A Chenin Blanc, with its vibrant acidity and notes of apple, pear, and honey, pairs beautifully with grilled corn’s sweet, smoky flavors. The wine’s slight sweetness can complement any additional toppings like chili powder or lime.
