Part of the fun of having dinner out is experimenting with different wine and food pairings. Who can resist a toothy Cabernet paired with a well-cooked steak, or a fruit-forward Pinot Noir complemented by a filet of salmon? Knowing how to pair wine and food makes both more enjoyable. Remember this red wine pairing guide next time you’re out to dinner.

Pairing Red Wine With Food

1. Cabernet Sauvignon 

Wine made from these distinctive grapes can be rich and fruity or almost savory in flavor. This is the dominant grape grown in the Napa Valley and the Bordeaux region of France. It is often blended with other grapes in European wines, but California Cabernets are dense and “jammy.”  This wine blends with grilled red meat, such as beef or lamb, or hearty stews featuring lentils. Cabs can also complement hard, aged cheeses like cheddar and manchego. 

2. Zinfandel

This deep red grape was one of the first introduced into California, and continues to thrive in that state’s vineyards and Italy. The flavors are intensely fruity or spicy, making it an excellent accompaniment to pizza, BBQ, or anti-pasta dishes such as spiced nuts, charcuterie, or grilled veggies. 

3. Merlot

Along with Zinfandel, this is a popular red wine and a good introduction to enjoying reds. It is medium-bodied, with a smoother finish than fuller reds. It is generally fruit-forward, though the flavor profile shifts depending on whether it grows in cool or warm climates. It works well with lightly seasoned red meats, grilled veggies, charcuterie, and aged cheeses.

4. Pinot Noir

These grapes grow well in cool and temperate climates, such as the Pacific Northwest, Germany, and New Zealand. Pinots are considered among the lighter reds, but the flavors can range from light and fruity, with rose or licorice notes to deeper, berry-flavored vintages that will stand up to a steak dinner. Typically, Pinot Noir pairs well with salmon, lamb, roast chicken or duck, mushrooms, and soft, creamy cheeses made from both cow and goat milk.

5. Gamay Beaujolais

This light, acidic red originated in the Burgundy region of France. It is light and fruity, making it an excellent choice for a light dinner or as a picnic or lunchtime wine. It pairs well with roast chicken, pasta dishes, and creamy cheeses and bread. The lightest of the red wine family, it is an affordable choice that will please many palates.

For delicious food and wine in south Tampa, FL, head to Mad Dogs & Englishmen. This playful British-style pub offers a diverse wine list from around the world, as well as a dinner menu sure to please every taste preference. Enjoy their outdoor patio or dine indoors. Their Monday-Thursday happy hour from 3-7pm is the perfect time to sample featured wines. Call (813) 832-3037 for reservations or go to the website to view the dinner or lunch menu.