When it comes to pairing wine with food, most of us are familiar with the saying that red wine goes with red meat, while white wine pairs well with white meat. In fact, we have a whole article that explains various food and wine pairings. However, in this blog, we want to dig a little deeper by looking at the benefits of pairing red wine with beef, including different types of red wine that can be enjoyed with beef.
Why Red Wine and Beef Goes Well Together
Better Flavor
One big reason to pair red wine with beef is that it makes the meat taste even better. Red wine, especially those with more tannins, like Cabernet Sauvignon, blends perfectly with beef. The tannins in the wine combine with the meat’s proteins and fats, creating a deeper, richer flavor.
More Tender Meat
Another benefit of pairing red wine with beef is that it can make the meat more tender. Red wine has acids that help break down tough fibers in beef, making it softer and easier to chew.
In fact, this is one of the reasons we use red wine as a marinade for beef. Wines like Shiraz or Malbec are great for marinades because they tenderize the meat and add a rich flavor.
Balanced Fat Content
Beef, particularly cuts like ribeye or brisket, can be quite rich and fatty. While this richness adds to the flavor, it can sometimes feel heavy. That’s where red wine steps in. The acidity in red wine balances the fat content of the beef, making the meal feel lighter.
A full-bodied red, such as Zinfandel or Syrah, pairs well with a fatty ribeye, providing a fresh contrast to the meat's richness.
Easier Digestion
A less obvious benefit of pairing red wine with beef is its ability to aid digestion. The tannins in red wine, particularly in wines like Chianti or Bordeaux, help break down the proteins in the beef, making it easier for your body to process. This means you can enjoy your meal without feeling too weighed down afterward.
Improved Health
Pairing red wine with beef comes with some impressive health benefits. Research has shown that red wine contains beneficial compounds like polyphenols, which are antioxidants. These compounds help reduce the buildup of bad cholesterol, lowering the amount that gets into your bloodstream and helping to protect your blood vessels. So, enjoying a glass of Pinot Noir with your beef isn’t just tasty but great for your heart.
Tips for Matching Red Wine with Beef
Pair Lighter Dishes With Lighter Wines
When pairing wine with beef, a good rule of thumb is to match the wine's flavor intensity with that of the beef. Leaner cuts, like fillet or topside, can be tender and delicious, but they might get overpowered by a strong wine. For these cuts, it’s better to choose a lighter wine that won’t overshadow the meat. Pinot Noir, a light red wine, goes well with dishes like Beef Bourguignon. Barbera is another good choice, with lower tannins but nice flavors that pair well with simpler beef dishes.
Try Aged Beef with Aged Wine
If you’re enjoying dry-aged steak, consider how long the meat has been aged. Heavily aged beef can have gamey or cheesy flavors, which goes nicely with older wines like an aged Barolo or a red Burgundy.
Enjoy Fatty Beef With Richer Wines
Fattier cuts of beef, like rump, fore rib, and shin, have richer flavors. The more fat in the beef, the better it pairs with richer wines that have bolder tannins. The fat can soften the taste of tannins in your mouth, while tannins can cut through the richness of the fat.
Sauces Matter, Too
Many classic sauces served with beef have strong flavors that can influence your wine choice. For example, a peppercorn sauce will go nicely with the peppery notes of a Syrah/Shiraz. If you’re having roast beef with red wine sauce, a red wine like Zinfandel that highlights riper fruit flavors might be best.
Enjoy Beef Paired with Red Wine at The Riddler
At The Riddler, we believe every delicious beef dish deserves the perfect wine pairing to elevate your dining experience. Our dishes are designed to bring out the best flavors of both.
Our sommeliers at The Riddler will be delighted to help you choose from an exquisite selection of red wines that complement your dishes. Whether you enjoy a Dried Aged Harami or Daikon Espuma, we have the perfect wine to enhance your meal.
Join us at The Riddler for a memorable dining experience. Book your table today.
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