Are you looking to up your dinner game? One of the most classic and delicious meals is steak with a glass (or two) of fine wine. Food and wine pairings can be tricky, but they can elevate an ordinary meal into something extraordinary when done right.

This is especially true when it comes to steak and wine pairings. There are many delicious combinations to choose from! However, it is important to understand which wines complement the steak you are serving, as this will make a huge difference in the overall flavor of your meal. To help you choose the perfect wine to go with your steak, here is a guide to the top 5 popular steak cuts and their recommended pairings.

Top 5 Popular Steak Cuts with Wine pairings 

1. Ribeye Steak

The ribeye is one of the most luxurious steaks and has a bold flavor with plenty of fat that melts in your mouth. This cut pairs well with full-bodied red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Merlot. The full-bodied wines will help balance the ribeye steak’s natural fatty flavors.

2. Porterhouse & T-Bone Steak

Porterhouse and T-bone steaks are large steaks with a strip steak on one side and a filet mignon on the other. These cuts pair perfectly with big, bold red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. They also pair well with Aglianico and Nebbiolo. The tannins in these wines will help to balance the steak’s rich flavor.

3. Sirloin Steak

Sirloin steaks are leaner than the other cuts and have a tender texture that makes them ideal for grilling or pan-searing. These steaks pair nicely with medium-bodied reds such as Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, and Grenache. They also pair well with French Syrah, Sangiovese, and even lighter reds such as Beaujolais.

4. Pairing Steak & Malbec 

Malbec is another full-bodied red wine that pairs nicely with beef dishes and steaks. Malbec typically has notes of dark fruit (such as blackberries) and plums, as well as hints of spice like clove or nutmeg. These flavors will complement any grilled steak beautifully—especially if you’re grilling something like a skirt or flank steak that has been marinated in spices or herbs beforehand.

5. Filet Mignon 

Filet mignon is one of the most popular steaks and also one of the leanest. Its delicate texture and subtle flavor make it an excellent choice for pairing with lighter red wines such as Pinot Noir or Côtes du Rhône. The fruity, earthy flavors of these wines will bring out the flavor of the steak without overpowering it.

Pairing Tips

• When pairing steak and wine, it’s important to remember that the wine should be chosen based on the cut of the steak you are serving.
• Fattier steaks pair well with full-bodied vino, while leaner cuts should be paired with lighter reds.
• Always consider the flavors you’re using to season and cook your steak – this will greatly affect what type of wine you choose.
• Consider the other foods you’ll be serving with your meat – this will help determine the right type of wine to pair with your meal.
• Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment and taste different wines until you find the perfect match.

No matter which cut you’re serving, there are plenty of delicious combinations to choose from when pairing steak and wine. With the right combination of steak and wine, you can create an unforgettable dining experience that your guests will surely appreciate. Use this guide to explore different pairings, and you’ll be an expert in no time.