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Best Red Wines with Steak
Red Wine and Steak: A Perfect Match
A great steak deserves an equally great wine. The best red wines with steak bring out the richness of the meat while the protein softens the tannins in the wine. Whether you’re grilling a ribeye or pan-searing a filet, there’s a red that will elevate the entire meal.
Below, we’ve highlighted the top red wines to pair with steak — along with the best cuts for each.
1. Cabernet Sauvignon
Pair with: Ribeye, New York Strip
Cabernet Sauvignon is the go-to for richly marbled cuts. Its firm tannins and bold black fruit flavors stand up to fat, char, and seasoning. If you’re only picking one bottle, Cab is a safe, powerful bet.
Explore bold Cabs in our 90+ Point Wine Club.
2. Malbec
Pair with: Skirt steak, tri-tip, grilled flank
Malbec offers dark fruit, smoke, and a plush texture that plays well with leaner steaks. It’s a standout for grilled meats with a bit of char or spice.
3. Merlot
Pair with: Filet mignon, top sirloin
Smooth, round, and less tannic, Merlot complements tender cuts without overpowering them. It’s a great pick for creamy sauces and herb-based marinades.
These medium-bodied reds are often overlooked, but they offer some of the most balanced red wine steak pairings available.
4. Syrah / Shiraz
Pair with: Pepper-crusted steak, lamb, sirloin
A Bold Red Wine Steak Pairing. Its smoky, savory character makes it a natural with grilled meats and steaks seasoned with black pepper or herbs.
If you enjoy bold spice and smoky notes, Syrah is one of the top red wines to serve with steak cooked over flame or seasoned with pepper.
5. Zinfandel
Pair with: BBQ steak, short ribs
Zinfandel’s ripe fruit and warm spice pair beautifully with smoky flavors and barbecue rubs. It’s also a fun, unexpected alternative to heavier reds.
6. Bordeaux Blends
Pair with: Porterhouse, dry-aged beef
Cabernet/Merlot blends from Bordeaux or Napa offer structure, acidity, and elegance. They’re made for complex, dry-aged steaks with serious flavor.
These structured blends are ideal if you’re exploring bold wine and steak pairings beyond the classics.
Looking for the Best Red Wines with Steak?
This list is your starting point, but pairing goes beyond just the cut. Cooking style, seasoning, and side dishes all play a role. Want a full breakdown by cut, prep method, and hosting tips? Explore our full Red Wine and Steak Pairing Guide.
Stock Up on the Best Red Wines with Steak
Choosing a great red wine for steak doesn’t have to be complicated. Browse our Wine Clubs to find bold reds that bring out the best in your next meal.
