Are you planning on hosting a summer barbecue? The perfect way to accompany your delicious grilled meats and fresh salad is with a bold and full-bodied wine. While light and crisp wines are summer favorites, full-bodied wines can add a new level of complexity and intensity to your meal that your guests will love. Don’t know where to start? This blog has got you covered!

What are Full-Bodied Wines? 🍇💪

Full-bodied wines are wines that have a high alcohol content, high tannins, and a lot of flavor. They are typically made with grapes that are more robust and full-flavored, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, and are aged for longer periods. These wines are perfect for grilled meats and heavier dishes, as they balance out the strong flavors with their own complexity.

Red grapes ready for wine-making

Pairing Full-Bodied Wines with Your Barbecue 🍔🥩

When choosing a full-bodied wine to pair with your summer barbecue, it’s important to consider the flavors of your food and the wine. The wine should not overpower or clash with the food, but should instead complement it. Here are some great full-bodied wines to pair with your barbecue:

1. Cabernet Sauvignon 🍇🍷

This classic red wine is full-bodied, with high tannins and a rich flavor. It pairs well with red meats, such as steak or lamb, and is also great with a charcuterie board. For a summer barbecue, try a lighter and fruitier Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley.

A bottle of cabernet sauvignon with grapes and a wine glass

2. Zinfandel 🍇🌶️

Zinfandel is a bold red wine with high alcohol content, and pairs well with spicy barbecue dishes. It has a fruity and spicy flavor that complements grilled meats and smoky flavors. Try a bottle from Lodi, California for a fruit-forward and spicy Zinfandel.

A bottle of red zinfandel with a wine glass and a spicy sausage in the background

3. Malbec 🍇🥩

This full-bodied red wine is perfect for pairing with beef dishes, such as burgers or brisket. It has a strong tannin structure and a deep flavor that can stand up to the bold flavors of grilled meats. Try a Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina for a rich and fruity wine.

A bottle of malbec with beef skewers and a wine glass in the background

4. Chardonnay 🍇🧀

Not all full-bodied wines are red! Chardonnay is a full-bodied white wine that pairs well with creamy and cheese-based dishes, such as mac and cheese or grilled cheese sandwiches. It has a buttery and oak-y flavor that can balance out the richness of these dishes. Try a chardonnay from Sonoma, California for a buttery and fruity wine.

A bottle of chardonnay with a cheese plate and a wine glass in the background

Serving Full-Bodied Wines 🍷🍴

When serving full-bodied wines, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, these wines should be served at room temperature, or slightly chilled for white wines. This will bring out the flavors and aromas of the wine. Second, invest in some good wine glasses that will bring out the best in the wine. Finally, allow the wine to breathe for a few minutes before serving, as this will further enhance the flavors.

A table set with wine glasses and a bottle of red wine

Conclusion 🍾🌞

Full-bodied wines can add an exciting new dimension to your summer barbecue. With so many great options to choose from, pair your favorite bold wine with some delicious grilled meats, and enjoy the beautiful summer weather with friends and family. Cheers!

A group of friends enjoying a summer barbecue with a bottle of wine