Red Wine: steak's DREAM Dining Companion
While exceptions exist, the longstanding rule is that red wine with steak makes the ideal companion.
This is because the tannins in red wines can help cut through the fats in the steak, enhancing those savoury, beefy flavours we love. In turn, the fat in the meat mellows any bitterness of the wine, resulting in a smoother, more fruit-forward profile.
A helpful guideline is the principle of pairing like with like. Match leaner cuts of steak with lighter red wines, and the richer, fattier cuts with more full-bodied, tannin-rich red wines. Considering wines with high acidity is also a good idea, as they can cut through the richness of the steak, achieving a more harmonious balance in every bite.
The timeless combination of salt and black pepper remains a favourite for seasoning steak. However, if your steak features a more pronounced seasoning of herbs or spices, it’s essential to consider these flavours to find a complementary wine pairing.
T-bone steak
Big in size and big on flavour, a T-bone offers steak lovers the best of both worlds – all the taste of a sirloin but with the tenderness of a fillet. Although a T-bone is a leaner, more tender steak option, it has big, beefy flavours that demand a full-bodied wine.
Opt for a full-bodied Argentinian Malbec with a rich finish, smooth tannins and flavours of dark hedgerow fruits and toasted spices.
Top pick: Opi Malbec - a 5-star fruit-filled Malbec that was named was named ‘Best Malbec of Argentina’ on its debut vintage.
Sirloin steak
It’s a classic lean steak cut, but it still packs flavour. It’s best served medium-rare and well-rested to make it succulent and tender. This makes Shiraz an excellent wine to pair with a lean sirloin.
Top pick: Black Stump - our No.1 red. Pure Shiraz, selected from the premium Clare Valley and McLaren Vale, it's packed with dense fruit and spice.
Selecting the Perfect Bottle for Every Cut
Factor in your sauces
Whether it’s a vibrant salsa verde, a creamy peppercorn, a luxurious Béarnaise, or a tangy chimichurri, each sauce brings its unique flair - but don't forget to harmonise your wine selection to ensure a balanced and complementary pairing.
Don’t forget the sides
A steak dish is rounded off with classic sides – be it crispy chips, indulgent mac ’n’ cheese, golden onion rings or creamy mashed potatoes. The chosen sides should enhance the steak’s natural flavours and robustness and match the wine’s characteristics.
Go off the beaten track with your wine selection
While it’s natural to gravitate towards familiar tastes, the diverse world of steak cuts and wine varieties offers endless exploration - full of unique nuances that lead to delicious discoveries!
