Quick answer: Choose a wine based on the cut’s fat and the sauce. Fatty cuts like ribeye love tannic reds such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Lean cuts like filet mignon pair better with softer reds like Merlot or Pinot Noir. Spicy or grilled steaks shine with Malbec and Zinfandel.
Steak and red wine are a natural pairing because tannin and protein are made for each other. Tannin binds to the proteins and fat in red meat, which softens the wine and makes the meat taste juicier. But not every steak wants the same wine. The cut, the cooking method, and the sauce all matter.
Why Red Wine Works With Steak
Red wine’s tannins feel drying on their own. When you eat a bite of well marbled steak, the fat coats your mouth and the tannins scrub it away, leaving your palate refreshed. The result is that the wine tastes smoother and the steak tastes richer. This is why big reds that seem harsh alone can taste wonderful with a ribeye.
Best Wine by Cut of Steak
Ribeye
The most marbled popular cut, ribeye can handle the boldest wines. Choose Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa or Bordeaux, Syrah from the northern Rhône, or Barolo. The fat softens high tannin beautifully.
New York Strip
Strip steak has a firm texture, good marbling, and a beefy flavor. Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Bordeaux blends are excellent. A Rioja Reserva adds savory, dried fruit complexity.
Filet Mignon
Filet is the most tender and the leanest cut, with a mild flavor. Big tannic wines can overpower it. Choose Merlot, Pinot Noir, or an elegant Bordeaux from the Right Bank (Saint Émilion or Pomerol).
Sirloin
Leaner than ribeye but more flavorful than filet, sirloin pairs well with medium bodied reds like Merlot, Sangiovese (Chianti Classico), or Grenache blends from the southern Rhône.
Flank and Skirt Steak
These thin, flavorful cuts are often marinated and grilled. Their bold, slightly charred character works with Malbec, Zinfandel, and Tempranillo. For carne asada or fajitas, try a fruity Malbec or Garnacha.
T Bone and Porterhouse
You get both strip and tenderloin, so choose a wine that bridges both: Cabernet Sauvignon or a Super Tuscan blend.
Best Wine by Sauce
- Peppercorn sauce: Syrah or Shiraz, which has its own peppery notes
- Béarnaise: Bordeaux blend or white Burgundy for a surprising twist
- Chimichurri: Malbec, the classic Argentine pairing
- Blue cheese butter: Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel. See our blue cheese guide.
- Mushroom sauce: Pinot Noir or Nebbiolo, whose earthy notes echo the mushrooms
- Red wine reduction: use the same style of wine you plan to drink
Best Wine by Cooking Method
- Grilled over high heat: bold, fruity reds like Zinfandel, Malbec, and Shiraz match the char.
- Pan seared with butter: Cabernet Sauvignon or Bordeaux, with structure to cut the richness.
- Sous vide or reverse seared: the meat is very tender, so a refined Pinot Noir or Merlot works well.
- Dry aged: dry aging adds nutty, funky depth. Try an aged Bordeaux, Barolo, or Rioja Gran Reserva.
Can You Drink White Wine With Steak?
Yes. A full bodied, oaked Chardonnay or white Rhône blend can stand up to lean cuts and creamy sauces like béarnaise. For steak tartare, a dry rosé or Champagne is a classic choice.
Bread and Cheese for Steak Night
Start with a small board of aged Cheddar, aged Gouda, and crusty sourdough. These bold cheeses pair with the same red wines you will pour with dinner. Our wine and cheese pairing guide and best breads guide have more ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best wine with steak?
Cabernet Sauvignon is the most popular all around match, especially with ribeye and New York strip. Malbec, Syrah, and Bordeaux blends are excellent alternatives.
What wine goes with filet mignon?
Because filet mignon is lean and tender, choose a softer red like Merlot, Pinot Noir, or a Right Bank Bordeaux rather than a highly tannic Cabernet.
Is Pinot Noir good with steak?
Pinot Noir works with leaner cuts like filet mignon and with mushroom based sauces. It can feel too light for a fatty ribeye, which pairs better with Cabernet or Syrah.
What wine goes with grilled steak?
Grilled steak pairs well with fruity, bold reds like Malbec, Zinfandel, and Shiraz, which match the smoky char.
