The Ideal Wine Matches for Your Aussie Steak Dinner

18 May 2023 by Elements Bar and Grill

In this piece

Cabernet Sauvignon: A Time-Honoured Pairing

Shiraz: A Robust Companion

Pinot Noir: Subtle Yet Impactful

Malbec: The Steakhouse Regular

Chardonnay: A White Wine Surprise

There's no arguing that Australians love their steak. Cooked to perfection, a steak is a treat all on its own, but when paired with the right wine, it can transform a meal into an epicurean delight. Though the vast selection of wines might seem overwhelming, this blog is here to guide you. We'll explore the perfect wine matches for your steak dinner, irrespective of the cut or the way it's cooked.

Cabernet Sauvignon: A Time-Honoured Pairing

A classic, time-honoured wine choice to accompany a succulent, juicy steak, especially a well-marbled Ribeye or a T-bone, is Cabernet Sauvignon. The high tannin content in Cabernet Sauvignon presents a formidable complement to a flavourful steak. Tannins serve to cleanse your palate, effectively cutting through the rich fat. Moreover, the dark fruit flavours of blackcurrant and plum found in Cabernet Sauvignon pair incredibly well with the taste of steak.

Shiraz: A Robust Companion

In Australia, we know Syrah as Shiraz. This red wine is a robust, full-bodied partner for a steak, offering flavours of dark fruit, black pepper, and occasionally, smoky or meaty notes. A zesty Shiraz pairs well with heavily seasoned or peppery steak due to its vibrant intensity. It's a fantastic match for a grill-kissed T-bone.

Pinot Noir: Subtle Yet Impactful

For a leaner cut such as Eye Fillet, you might want to consider a lighter-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir. Though it's lower in tannins, Pinot Noir has enough acidity and flavour to hold its own against the steak without overwhelming it. The wine's flavours of cherry, raspberry, and sometimes a hint of earthiness can create an interesting juxtaposition to the steak.

Malbec: The Steakhouse Regular

Argentine Malbec has become a steakhouse regular, and for a good reason. Known for its fruity profile and lower tannin levels, Malbec is a fantastic companion for leaner cuts like a skirt steak. Its flavours of blackberry, plum, and black cherry, accompanied by a hint of smoky aroma, superbly complement the savoury steak.

Chardonnay: A White Wine Surprise

White wines aren't typically associated with steak dinners. But, you might be pleasantly surprised by a rich, full-bodied, oaked Chardonnay. It goes surprisingly well with a leaner cut of steak like a sirloin or veal steak. The wine's buttery texture and flavours of apple, pear, and vanilla can provide an appealing contrast to the savoury steak.

Whether it's a thick, juicy Ribeye, a lean Eye Fillet, or a sizzling sirloin, there's a wine out there that can enhance its unique flavours and textures. By understanding the diverse characteristics of both wine and steak, you can make informed choices that create flavourful combinations that are truly extraordinary. So next time you're planning a steak dinner, don't forget to consider these wine pairing suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

IN THIS POST

Cabernet Sauvignon: A Time-Honoured Pairing

Shiraz: A Robust Companion

Pinot Noir: Subtle Yet Impactful

Malbec: The Steakhouse Regular

Chardonnay: A White Wine Surprise

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