There are few better ways to enjoy the summer than with a barbecue, and the right wine can elevate your outdoor feast to a whole new level. While beer and cider often get the spotlight, wine offers a world of flavour combinations that can pair beautifully with smoky, grilled food. Whether you're throwing steaks on the coals or sizzling veggie skewers on the grill, here are some of the best wines to enjoy at a BBQ.
Red Wines – Bold Flavours for Chargrilled Meats
Barbecued red meats like beef burgers, steaks, or venison sausages need a wine that can stand up to their robust, smoky character. A classic Malbec is a great choice – particularly one from Argentina – offering bold blackberry and plum notes with a touch of spice and smoke that complements chargrilled beef perfectly.
Zinfandel (particularly Californian) is another fantastic BBQ red, with its ripe fruit, peppery kick, and often slightly smoky edge. It works especially well with sticky ribs or anything coated in a smoky barbecue sauce. If you’re grilling lamb or spiced kebabs, a Syrah or Shiraz – especially from the Rhône Valley or South Australia – will deliver a punchy mix of black fruit, pepper, and savoury depth.
Rosé – Versatile and Refreshing
Rosé is a wonderful all-rounder at a BBQ, especially if you’re serving a mix of dishes. A dry Provençal rosé is crisp and elegant, with red berry notes and a refreshing acidity that cuts through fatty foods like pork or grilled halloumi. It also complements grilled salmon and chicken beautifully.
For something with a bit more fruit and body, look to Spanish rosado or a deeper rosé from the south of France – these can stand up to stronger flavours like spiced prawns or jerk chicken.
White Wines – Zingy and Aromatic
White wine might not be the obvious choice for a BBQ, but it's brilliant with lighter grilled dishes. A zesty Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand or the Loire Valley pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, seafood, or vegetable skewers, offering citrus and herbaceous notes that match well with marinades and fresh summer salads.
If you’re grilling fish, opt for a lightly oaked Chardonnay – think white Burgundy or cooler-climate New World examples – which brings enough richness to stand up to the grill, yet still keeps things refreshing. For Asian-influenced or spicy BBQ dishes, a chilled bottle of off-dry Riesling is a winning partner, as its touch of sweetness helps balance heat.
Fizz – For Fun and Food
Sparkling wine is often overlooked for barbecues, but it’s an ideal match for salty, smoky, and fatty foods. A dry Prosecco or English sparkling wine adds freshness and a festive touch. Cava and Crémant are excellent value options that can handle everything from grilled prawns to chicken wings.
Final Thoughts
When choosing wine for a BBQ, think about the intensity of the flavours, the type of food on offer, and the weather. Above all, keep it relaxed – serve your wines slightly chilled, go for screw caps for ease, and offer a mix of styles so your guests can enjoy a glass that suits their plate. Cheers to summer!
