A guide to wine and steak pairings

Written By Francis Pascal

As February brings the chill of winter, it also warms our hearts with the spirit of love. Valentine’s Day, and the entire month, is a celebration of connection, indulgence, and unforgettable experiences. Few things embody romance better than a beautifully seared steak paired with the perfect glass of wine. This timeless duo has graced countless romantic dinners, igniting passion and creating memories with every bite and sip.

The month of love inspires us to craft tasting menus designed for intimate celebrations. From tender Wagyu steak to the robust flavors of a New York Strip, our pairings are a love letter to gourmet dining. We want to share some secrets behind perfecting your steak and wine experience, elevating it into a culinary masterpiece.

Pairing wine with steak is all about finding the perfect balance—bringing out the richness of the meat while complementing it with just the right wine. Here are some classic pairings you can try:

Wagyu Steak & Pinot Noir or Bordeaux Blends

For Wagyu’s buttery texture and intricate marbling, you can opt for a medium-bodied Pinot Noir from Burgundy, which offers subtle umami flavors. Alternatively, a Merlot-dominated Bordeaux blend can provide velvety richness that enhances the steak without overpowering it.

New York Strip & Cabernet Sauvignon or Nebbiolo

With the bold flavor and marbling of a New York Strip, you might consider a robust Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Its herbaceous and black fruit notes pair beautifully with the meat. If you prefer something with earthy depth, a Nebbiolo from Piedmont is another excellent option.

Ribeye & Amarone or Zinfandel

Ribeye’s rich fat content works well with wines that have bold tannins. You could try an Amarone della Valpolicella for its smoky cherry notes or a fruity Zinfandel from Sonoma, which cuts through the fat while enhancing the steak’s hearty flavors if you are doing grilled Ribeyes.

T-Bone/Porterhouse & Aglianico or Xinomavro

For a Porterhouse steak, with its tender filet and flavorful strip, you can explore aromatic reds. Aglianico’s meaty, fruit-forward character or Xinomavro’s vibrant red fruit flavors create an unforgettable pairing experience.

Photo by Hanxiao Xu on Unsplash

Tips for a Perfect Pairing

  • For leaner cuts, such as filet, you can choose lighter wines to keep the flavors balanced. Fattier cuts, like Ribeye, pair best with bold reds that have high tannins.

  • You might also match the wine’s acidity to the marinade or sauce if one is used.

  • If you’re working with aged reds, decanting them for an hour or two will help bring out their complexity.

You can also find some tips to choose the right steak for the right event here: https://www.vendador.com/the-vendador-table/a-steak-for-every-occasion.

Plan Your Valentine’s Night with a Wine Tasting Experience

An evening with an interactive wine-tasting experience - what's better than that? Curated by our expert sommeliers, Kimberlee Laschiazza and Kolin Juckins, this journey into the world of wine is perfect for setting the mood. It also makes an unforgettable group date night or Galentine's party! You’ll explore five exceptional wines, each paired with thoughtfully crafted small bites to enhance the flavors.

Whether you make this a standalone event or a delightful prelude to dinner, it’s an experience designed to inspire connection and create lasting memories.

Francis Pascal
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