The Perfect Wines for A Summer Barbecue
Finding the perfect wine for your dinner party or social occasion can be tricky, especially when it comes to barbecues as the often wide variety of grilled meats and side dishes can add to the complexity. While some people may naturally have their favourite tried-and-tested barbecue wine pairings, we’ve created this guide for those searching for a little inspiration or perhaps looking to try something a bit different this summer.
Dish: Beef Burgers
Recommended Wines: Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon
The Quara Malbec from the Salta region of Argentina is a popular choice. Spread through the fertile land of the Calchaquí Valley, this region is a bit cooler and so the wine shows a little more complexity without losing the looked-for fruit. For those looking for something extra special there is the Chakana ‘Nuna Vineyard’ Malbec. This powerful, organic red is elegantly balanced but at the same time lacks none of the fruit power you’d expect with a high calibre Malbec. The ‘XV Pure’ Cabernet Sauvignon by McPherson Wines – made with old vine fruit grown on the banks of the Murray River – is a more than worthy alternative and a great choice to accompany any beef dish.
Dish: Grilled Chicken
Recommended Wines: White Rioja or Chardonnay
Bagordi’s Organic Rioja Blanco is a crisp blend of White Garnacha and Sauvignon Blanc with a fine balance of acidity and fruitiness. This refreshing White Rioja slips down a treat in warm weather and is very tasty indeed! The Domaine Les Ors Limoux Chardonnay – with it’s expressive white fruits and a touch of oak – also makes a great accompaniment to grilled chicken.
Some of our recommended wine pairings for popular BBQ foods – read on for more ideas and suggestions!
Dish: Sweet BBQ Pork
Recommended Wines: Old Vine Zinfandel or Rioja
From the Lodi region of central California, the Burlesque ‘Old Vine’ Zinfandel is a robust and beautifully balanced red that sees a little oak ageing. Aromas of vanilla, cracked black pepper and dark damson fruit give way to punchy red fruit flavours and a hint of oak. For a complex but enjoyable alternative we recommend the Bagordi Rioja Crianza. This wine balances wild red and black fruit with spice notes, producing a medium-full bodied structure and silky palate – ideal for enjoying with pork dishes.
Dish: Veggie Skewers
Recommended Wines: Provence Rosé or Chenin Blanc
If you are serving Veggie Skewers why not try the new-in-stock ‘Perle De Valensole’ Provence Rosé? This pale and very drinkable dry rosé blends refreshing minerality with sort berry fruit flavours, with an aroma of berries and a hint of summer flowers. For those with a preference for white wine the Cawston Crossing Chenin Blanc is deliciously refreshing and offers fantastic value. Bursting with flavours of guava, ripe apple and pear, this elegant Chenin Blanc is the perfect accompaniment to vegetarian dishes, creamy white cheeses and fresh green salads.
Dish: Spicy BBQ Steak
Recommended Wines: Sangiovese or ‘Due Di Due’
The Italians certainly know a thing or two about outside dining and we recommend either a Sangiovese or – for those seeking something a bit different – the wonderful ‘Due di Due’ Rosso. This soft, ripe and very fruity wine from Puglia is obtained from a blend of Negroamaro and Malvasia Nera grapes and pairs excellently with grilled and spicy red meat. For an easy-going alternative the Amanti Sangiovese from Emilia-Romagna combines juicy, soft fruit with hints of black cherries and represents great value for money.
Enjoy perfectly matched wines with your barbecue this summer
And we haven’t forgotten the fizz! The Sunnycliff Estate Sparkling Brut is a ripe, fruity and delicious blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This Sparkling Brut is currently available for a special price of just £9.95 – that’s a saving of £3 per bottle – to help you celebrate summer in style!