Flame-grilled meats bring a rich, smoky depth that begs for the right wine pairing. Whether you’re working with a marbled ribeye or charred lamb skewers, the right varietal can highlight the flavors of the grill and elevate the entire dining experience. This guide breaks down ideal wine pairings for various flame-grilled meats, along with smart ways to save when shopping for bottles.
Cabernet Sauvignon – A Classic for Grilled Steak and Burgers
Cabernet Sauvignon is bold, tannic, and structured—qualities that pair perfectly with fatty, charred cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or gourmet burgers. The tannins cut through the fat, while the deep blackcurrant and spice notes echo the richness of grilled beef. Look for bottles from Napa Valley, Chile, or Bordeaux’s Left Bank for high-impact flavor.
Syrah/Shiraz – Great for Grilled Lamb and Spicy Rubs
Syrah’s smoky, peppery character complements grilled lamb chops, skewers, and meats seasoned with cumin or harissa. Australian Shiraz, which tends to be fruitier and bolder, works especially well with spicy dry rubs and charred crusts.
Zinfandel – A Match for BBQ Ribs and Pork Shoulder
Zinfandel’s ripe, jammy fruit and hint of spice make it ideal for barbecue favorites. Whether it’s sticky baby back ribs or slow-grilled pork shoulder, Zinfandel enhances the sweetness of barbecue sauces and the smokiness from the flame.
Malbec – Versatile and Grill-Friendly
Hailing from Argentina, Malbec is a natural partner for grilled meats—especially skirt steak, chorizo, or grilled mushrooms. Its dark fruit profile, medium tannins, and touch of smoke make it a go-to for mixed-grill platters.
Grenache/Garnacha – Ideal for Chicken and Charred Vegetables
For lighter grilled fare like chicken thighs, wings, or flame-roasted veggies, try a bottle of Grenache (Garnacha in Spain). It’s medium-bodied with berry notes and mild spice, offering a nice contrast to grilled herbs and caramelized skins.
Buying Wine with Cashback Savings
When shopping at wine retailers like Total Wine or BevMo, be sure to activate cashback offers through apps like Ibotta. These platforms often run limited-time rewards for alcohol purchases, especially during holidays or seasonal promotions.
If your preferred store sells gift cards, consider purchasing one through Fluz to earn cashback instantly. While not every wine shop is a Fluz partner, some chains, specialty grocers, or alcohol delivery services may be available on the platform—worth checking before you buy.
Wine and Dine
Grilled meats deserve bold, balanced wines that don’t overpower the smoke but complement it. Whether you reach for a structured Cabernet or a smoky Syrah, pairing well doesn’t have to cost more. Use apps like Ibotta or Fluz to bring cashback to your next wine night—and toast to better flavor and better savings.
