Grilling season is basically wine’s time to shine—because nothing brings out big, bold flavors quite like fire and smoke.
Whether you're tossing steaks on the grill, charring some veggies, or sizzling shrimp skewers, there’s a wine out there that can take your cookout to the next level.
From crisp whites to juicy reds and everything in between, the right bottle can highlight all the smoky, savory, and even sweet notes in your food.
Here’s a breakdown of wine styles that play well with whatever you’re grilling.
Best with: Grilled steaks, burgers, lamb, sausages
Shop All
Cabernet Sauvignon – Great with marbled steaks and rich red meats
Syrah/Shiraz – Matches smoky, peppery grilled meats
Zinfandel – Perfect with BBQ ribs, burgers and spicy sausages
Best with: Pork chops, grilled chicken thighs, meaty vegetables
Show All
Merlot – Versatile with grilled pork or chicken
Grenache/Garnacha – Lovely with grilled veggies and herbed meats
Chianti / Sangiovese – Great with tomato-based sauces and grilled Italian sausages
Best with: Grilled Salmon, charred vegetables, pork skewers
Pinot Noir – Great with grilled mushrooms, salmon, or lighter meats
Gamay / Beaujolais – Ideal with grilled chicken or veggies, especially when slightly chilled
Best with: Mixed grill platters, shrimp skewers, grilled salads
Provençal Rosé – Bright and dry, works across a wide range of grilled foods
Rosado (Spanish Rosé) – Fuller-bodied, pairs well with grilled chorizo or pork
Pinot Noir Rosé – Excellent with grilled salmon or veggie kabobs
Best with: Grilled seafood, chicken breasts, grilled vegetables
Sauvignon Blanc – Zippy and herbal, great with grilled shrimp or vegitables such as asparagus
Albariño – Pairs well with grilled scallops or citrus-marinated fish
Vermentino / Grüner Veltliner – Crisp with a savory edge for grilled zucchini or peppers
Best with: Grilled lobster, pork, corn on the cob, creamy sauces
Chardonnay (especially oaked) – Rich and buttery, excellent with grilled chicken or corn
Viognier – Floral and textured, great with grilled peaches or spicy BBQ chicken
White Rhône Blends – Good with grilled poultry or spiced kebabs
Best with: Fried or charred foods, grilled appetizers, BBQ
