Red Wine and Steak Pairing Guide | Cellars Wine Club

Red wine and steak is one of the most iconic pairings in food and wine. When done right, the boldness of the wine enhances the richness of the steak, and the fat in the meat softens the tannins in the wine  creating a smooth, balanced finish with every bite.

Whether you’re planning a date night, grilling on the weekend, or hosting a formal dinner, this guide will help you choose the right red wine for every steak cut and cooking style.

How Red Wine Works with Steak

The reason red wine and steak go so well together comes down to structure:

• Tannins in red wine bind with fat and protein, softening both

• Acidity in wine cuts through richness, refreshing your palate

• Bold flavors complement the deep, savory notes in grilled or seared meat

Different cuts of steak  from lean to heavily marbled  benefit from different wine styles. Let’s break it down.

Best Red Wine and Steak Pairings by Cut

Ribeye

Pair with: Cabernet Sauvignon
Rich, marbled, and deeply flavorful, ribeye is made for big, tannic reds. Cabernet Sauvignon brings structure and dark fruit that stand up to fat and char.

Filet Mignon

Pair with: Merlot or Pinot Noir
This lean, tender cut benefits from smooth, fruit-forward reds with softer tannins. Merlot offers plush texture, while Pinot adds elegance and acidity.

New York Strip

Pair with: Zinfandel or Cabernet Blend
With moderate marbling and bold beef flavor, this cut loves a red with power and spice. Zinfandel is juicy and vibrant; Bordeaux blends offer grip and refinement.

Flank / Skirt Steak

Pair with: Malbec or Tempranillo
These thin, flavorful cuts shine when paired with reds that bring fruit and a hint of smoke. Malbec delivers blackberry and spice, while Tempranillo adds depth.

Sirloin

Pair with: Syrah / Shiraz
Firm, juicy, and flavorful, sirloin benefits from red wines with spice and richness. Syrah’s black pepper notes are a natural fit — especially with grilled steak.