Steak and red wine is the most famous pairing there is, and for good reason. But "red wine" covers a lot of ground. The right bottle depends on the cut, how it's cooked and what's on top.
Why red wine works with steak
Tannin, the grippy feeling in red wine, binds with the fat and protein in beef. The steak makes the wine feel smoother, and the wine makes each bite feel lighter. The fattier the steak, the more tannin it can handle.
By the cut
Ribeye (rich and marbled): bold reds with structure. Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Syrah.
New York strip (beefy, a little leaner): Cabernet, Merlot, Tempranillo.
Filet mignon (lean and tender): something softer. Pinot Noir, Merlot or a Rhône blend, so the wine doesn't overpower it.
Skirt or flank steak (grilled, often marinated): juicy, spicy reds. Zinfandel, Malbec, Garnacha.
Burgers: keep it fun. Zinfandel, Malbec or a fruity Spanish red.
By the sauce
Peppercorn: Syrah or Shiraz echoes the spice.
Blue cheese: Cabernet, or try something sweet like Port for fun.
Chimichurri: Malbec, of course. Or a bright Carmenère.
Mushroom or red wine sauce: Pinot Noir or Merlot.
Michael's steak picks
His everyday go-to: Canvasback Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon from Washington State. Structured and dark-fruited, with enough tannin for a ribeye, and it drinks well above its price.
The very special night: his favorite bottle on the planet, Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore from Tuscany. Michael only opens it on a very, very special night, and a great steak is exactly the right partner.
Don't love big reds?
You have options. A chilled Beaujolais or a dry rosé is great with grilled steak. Even a rich, oaked Chardonnay can work with a buttery filet. Drink what tastes good.
More steak night picks
The Steak Night guide on Sommelier on Demand has Michael's event-tested bottles at every price. Or ask: "Ribeye on the grill, want something that impresses."
Hosting a steakhouse-style dinner or client night? Michael can build a private wine pairing around your menu.
Booking holiday parties now. December dates fill fast. Bring Michael to your office holiday party, host an in-home tasting in Metro Detroit or Chicago, or ship virtual kits to a remote team.
