01
Global · Bordeaux, Napa and beyond
Cabernet Sauvignon
Firm structure gives a richly marbled cut a substantial companion.
Style to look for
A dry Cabernet with ripe fruit and balanced oak.
The reading table / 02
First, the meal.
Then, the wine.
A dozen ways to begin. Choose what is on the table and explore three wine styles, with a reason for each.
02 / Three directions to explore
Steak & grilled beef
Char, richness & savoury depth
Start with the cut and sauce. A lean fillet calls for less weight than a rib-eye; a sweet glaze changes the match.
Three wine suggestions for steak & grilled beef.
02
Argentina & Cahors, France
Malbec
Dark fruit suits the browned surface of grilled beef.
Style to look for
A fresh, dry example for a simply seasoned steak.
03
Rhône, Australia & global regions
Syrah & Shiraz
Pepper and savoury depth echo char and a peppercorn crust.
Style to look for
A pepper-led Syrah without excessive alcohol.
A starting point for your palate
These are our editorial suggestions, applying general food-and-wine principles to the guides. Sauce, sweetness and preparation can change the match. Individual bottles and personal preferences vary.
Why these suggestions?
We consider the dish’s dominant flavours, acidity, sweetness and richness, then suggest specific wine styles to explore. There are no numerical match scores or paid placements.
Further reading: