The Ultimate Guide to Wine Pairings for BBQ Dishes

By David Gadd | Published on 2022-12-16

Are you looking for the perfect wine pairing for your next BBQ feast? Look no further! This ultimate guide to wine pairings for BBQ dishes will help you find the perfect match for your favorite BBQ dishes. From kimchi and carne asada to brisket and BBQ chicken, we’ll cover all the classic combinations and some unexpected pairings that you’ll love. With this guide, you’ll be able to create a delicious and memorable meal that your guests will rave about. So, grab a glass of your favorite wine and let’s get started!



A glass of red wine and a plate of BBQ ribs, with a side of coleslaw, on a wooden table.

Kimchi and Wine: A Perfect Match

Kimchi and wine is a classic combination that has been enjoyed by many for centuries. The spicy, fermented flavors of kimchi and the bold, complex notes of a good wine make for an unforgettable pairing.

When it comes to pairing kimchi with wine, the key is to find a balance between the heat of the kimchi and the acidity of the wine. A good rule of thumb is to pair a kimchi dish with a wine that has a higher acidity and a lower alcohol content. For example, a Sauvignon Blanc or a Riesling would be a great choice. These wines have a crisp, acidic flavor that will help to balance out the heat of the kimchi.

For a more robust flavor, try pairing kimchi with a full-bodied red wine. A Cabernet Sauvignon or a Pinot Noir would be a great option. The bold, tannic flavors of these wines will stand up to the heat of the kimchi and create a unique flavor profile.

No matter what type of wine you choose, kimchi and wine is a classic combination that is sure to please. With the right pairing, you can create a truly unforgettable experience.

Carne Asada and Wine: A Delicious Combination

Carne asada is a classic Mexican dish that is often served at barbecues and is a favorite of many. The dish is made up of grilled beef, usually flank steak, that is marinated in a combination of spices and citrus juices. The beef is then grilled over a high heat, giving it a smoky flavor and a slightly charred exterior. When it comes to pairing carne asada with wine, there are a few options that can really bring out the flavor of the dish.

A full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec, is a great choice for carne asada. The bold flavors of the wine will complement the smoky, charred flavors of the beef. The tannins in the wine will also help to cut through the richness of the dish. For a white wine option, a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay can be a great choice. The crisp acidity of the wine will help to balance out the richness of the beef, while the fruity notes will bring out the flavors of the marinade.

For a more unique pairing, a rosé can be a great option for carne asada. The light, fruity flavors of the rosé will pair nicely with the smoky flavors of the beef, while the acidity of the wine will help to cut through the richness of the dish. For a truly unique pairing, a sparkling wine can be a great option. The bubbles in the wine will help to bring out the flavors of the marinade, while the acidity will help to balance out the richness of the beef.

Brisket and Wine: An Unforgettable Duo

When it comes to BBQ dishes, few can compare to the classic combination of brisket and wine. Brisket is a cut of beef that is slow-cooked over low heat, resulting in a tender, juicy, and flavorful dish. The key to pairing this dish with the right wine is to find a wine that will complement the smoky, savory flavors of the brisket.

When it comes to pairing wines with brisket, a full-bodied red wine is the way to go. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah are all excellent choices. These wines have bold tannins that will stand up to the smoky flavors of the brisket, while their fruit-forward notes will bring out the juicy, savory flavors of the meat. For a lighter option, a Pinot Noir can be a great choice. This wine has a light body and bright acidity that will balance the richness of the brisket.

No matter which wine you choose, the key to a successful pairing is to find a wine that will complement the flavors of the brisket. By selecting a wine with bold tannins and fruit-forward notes, you can ensure that your brisket and wine pairing will be an unforgettable duo.

BBQ Chicken and Wine: A Classic Combination

When it comes to classic BBQ dishes, chicken is often the star of the show. Whether you’re grilling up a whole bird, or just some juicy chicken wings, a good BBQ chicken dish is always a crowd pleaser. But what about the wine? What type of wine pairs best with BBQ chicken?

The answer is that there are many different types of wine that pair well with BBQ chicken. For a classic pairing, a fruity, medium-bodied white wine is a great choice. A Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio are both excellent options. These wines have a bright, crisp acidity that will cut through the smokiness of the BBQ chicken and bring out the flavors of the dish.

If you’re looking for something a bit more robust, a dry rosé is a great option. A dry rosé has a bit more body and tannin than a white wine, which helps to balance out the richness of the BBQ chicken. A dry rosé also has a hint of sweetness that pairs nicely with the sweetness of the BBQ sauce. For a truly unique pairing, try a sparkling rosé. The bubbles will add a touch of effervescence to the dish, making it even more enjoyable.

Chicken Shawarma and Wine: A Flavorful Matchup

Chicken shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish made with marinated chicken that is cooked on a rotisserie. It is usually served with a variety of accompaniments such as hummus, tahini, and pita bread. The combination of flavors makes it a great dish to pair with wine.

When it comes to pairing chicken shawarma with wine, the key is to find a wine that will complement the flavors of the dish. A good choice is a dry white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio. These wines have a crisp acidity that will cut through the richness of the marinated chicken and the creamy accompaniments. They also have a light body that won’t overpower the flavors of the dish.

For a more full-bodied option, a Chardonnay is a great choice. Chardonnay has a creamy texture that will pair nicely with the richness of the marinated chicken. It also has a hint of oakiness that will provide a nice contrast to the bright flavors of the accompaniments. For a more robust option, a Pinot Noir is a great choice. Pinot Noir has a bright acidity and a hint of earthiness that will pair nicely with the flavors of the shawarma.

Carnitas and Wine: An Unexpectedly Delicious Pairing

Carnitas are a Mexican dish made of slow-cooked pork, usually served with tortillas and a variety of condiments. It’s a dish that’s full of flavor and can be enjoyed as a main course or as a taco filling. When it comes to pairing carnitas with wine, the options are surprisingly diverse.

A light, fruity white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio can be a great match for carnitas. These wines have bright acidity and a hint of citrus that will help to cut through the richness of the pork. For a more robust pairing, a medium-bodied red like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot can be a great choice. These wines have a bit more tannin and structure that will stand up to the bold flavors of the carnitas.

For a truly unique pairing, try a rosé. Rosés are often overlooked when it comes to food pairings, but they can be a great match for carnitas. The light body and bright acidity of a rosé can help to balance out the richness of the pork, while the hint of sweetness can help to bring out the subtle sweetness of the dish.

Pork Ribs and Wine: A Winning Combination

When it comes to pork ribs and wine, there is no better pairing than a classic Cabernet Sauvignon. The bold tannins of the Cabernet Sauvignon will cut through the richness of the pork ribs, while the fruity notes of the wine will bring out the flavors of the ribs. A Cabernet Sauvignon from California or Australia is a great choice for this pairing.

For those looking for a lighter option, a Pinot Noir is an excellent choice. The light tannins of the Pinot Noir will not overpower the pork ribs, while the earthy notes of the wine will bring out the flavors of the ribs. A Pinot Noir from Oregon or Burgundy is a great choice for this pairing.

Finally, for those looking for a more unique pairing, a Zinfandel is a great option. The spicy and fruity notes of the Zinfandel will complement the pork ribs perfectly, while the bold tannins of the wine will cut through the richness of the ribs. A Zinfandel from California is a great choice for this pairing.

Korean BBQ and Wine: An Unbeatable Match

Korean BBQ is one of the most popular dishes in the world, and it’s no wonder why. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, the smoky aroma, and the succulent texture of the meat make it a favorite among food lovers. But what about the perfect wine pairing for this delicious dish?

The key to finding the perfect wine for Korean BBQ is to look for something that will complement the smoky, spicy flavors of the dish. A good option is a dry Riesling, which has a crisp acidity that will cut through the richness of the meat. For a more robust pairing, try a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Syrah. These wines have bold tannins that will stand up to the bold flavors of the meat.

If you’re looking for something a bit sweeter, a Gewurztraminer or a Moscato d’Asti are both great options. The sweetness of these wines will balance out the spiciness of the dish, while still providing a refreshing finish. For a truly unique pairing, try a sparkling rosé. The effervescence of the wine will help to cut through the richness of the meat, while the fruity notes will add a bright, refreshing finish.

Conclusion

No matter what type of BBQ dish you’re serving, there’s a perfect wine pairing that will take your meal to the next level. From Kimchi and Wine to Chicken Shawarma and Wine, this Ultimate Guide to Wine Pairings for BBQ Dishes has provided you with the best combinations to make your meal unforgettable. So, the next time you’re grilling up something delicious, don’t forget to choose the perfect wine to pair with it!