Pairing: Steak

Pairing steak with wine enhances the dining experience by balancing flavors and textures. Rich, fatty cuts like Ribeye or T-bone are best paired with bold red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Bordeaux blends, which have the tannins to cut through the fat and complement the meat’s robust flavors. Leaner cuts like Filet Mignon pair well with lighter reds such as Pinot Noir or Merlot, which do not overpower the delicate flavor of the steak. For spiced steaks, Zinfandel provides a sweet contrast that balances the savory spices.

Recipe

Ingredients

  • Steak: Choice of cut (Ribeye, T-bone, Sirloin, Filet Mignon, etc.) 
  • Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, optional herbs (rosemary, thyme) 
  • Butter: For basting 
  • Olive Oil: For searing 
  • Garlic: Optional, for aromatic flavor

Instructions

1. Preparation: Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Optionally, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

2. Cooking: Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, place the steak in the pan. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until a crust forms.

3. Basting: Lower the heat to medium and add butter and garlic (optional) to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly to pool the melted butter and use a spoon to baste the steak continuously. Continue cooking until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness (medium-rare is recommended for most cuts).

4. Resting: Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat

Serve With

Zinfandel, Pinot Noir

Learn More About the Best Pairings

Zinfandel

Bold, robust red wine known for its intense fruit flavors and high alcohol content.

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Pinot Noir

A light to medium-bodied red wine known for its elegance and complexity.

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Samplers

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