Top 50 Wines and Perfect Pairings for Every Occasion
- Isla Hawthorne
- Sep 24, 2024
- 14 min read
Explore a selection of top-notch wines paired with dishes that elevate their flavors, perfect for your next dining experience.
Photo: suvorovalex / stock.adobe.com
1. Chateau Montelena Chardonnay 2018
Produced by: Chateau Montelena Winery
Pairing: Grilled Lobster with Lemon Butter
This Napa Valley Chardonnay is known for its rich flavors of ripe pear, apple, and tropical fruits, complemented by a crisp acidity and a hint of oak. Chateau Montelena has been crafting exceptional wines for decades, and this bottle is a shining example of their expertise.
Why it works: The acidity in the Chardonnay cuts through the richness of the lobster, while the fruit notes bring out the natural sweetness of the seafood.
2. Antinori Tignanello 2019
Produced by: Marchesi Antinori
Pairing: Bistecca alla Fiorentina
A bold, full-bodied red wine with aromas of dark fruit, spice, and earthy undertones, Tignanello is a blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. Known as one of Italy’s greatest wines, it's perfect for pairing with a juicy, well-marbled steak.
Why it works: The tannins in Tignanello complement the steak's fattiness, while the wine's complex flavors enhance the savory elements of the dish.
3. Domaine de la Romanée-Conti La Tâche Grand Cru 2017
Produced by: Domaine de la Romanée-Conti
Pairing: Roasted Duck with Cherry Sauce
A legendary Burgundy Pinot Noir, La Tâche showcases exceptional depth, complexity, and elegance. Its red fruit flavors, hints of spice, and silky texture make it an ideal match for rich meats like duck.
Why it works: The wine's acidity and fruit-forward profile highlight the sweetness of the cherry sauce, while the earthy notes complement the roasted duck's flavors.
4. Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2020
Produced by: Cloudy Bay Vineyards
Pairing: Goat Cheese Salad with Fresh Herbs
This New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is zesty and vibrant, with flavors of lime, passionfruit, and a touch of minerality. Cloudy Bay is renowned for its bright, refreshing whites, making this bottle a go-to choice for light, citrusy dishes.
Why it works: The wine’s crisp acidity cuts through the creaminess of the goat cheese, while its herbaceous notes harmonize with the fresh herbs in the salad.
5. Château Margaux 2015
Produced by: Château Margaux
Pairing: Rack of Lamb with Rosemary and Garlic
A classic Bordeaux, Château Margaux is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. It’s renowned for its elegance, complexity, and velvety texture, with layers of black currant, tobacco, and earthy notes.
Why it works: The bold flavors of the lamb are balanced by the wine's refined tannins, while the rosemary brings out the wine's herbaceous qualities.
6. Penfolds Grange 2017
Produced by: Penfolds
Pairing: Slow-Cooked Beef Brisket
Australia’s most iconic wine, Penfolds Grange is known for its power and complexity, with intense flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice. This Shiraz-dominant wine ages beautifully and is best enjoyed with hearty, savory dishes.
Why it works: The robust structure of the wine pairs perfectly with the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture of slow-cooked beef, while the smoky flavors enhance the richness of the brisket.
7. Bollinger Special Cuvée Brut
Produced by: Champagne Bollinger
Pairing: Oysters on the Half Shell
This prestigious Champagne, known for its fine bubbles and notes of citrus, brioche, and toasted nuts, is a sophisticated and lively sparkler. Bollinger’s classic style makes it a brilliant match for fresh seafood.
Why it works: The bright acidity and effervescence of the Champagne complement the briny, delicate flavors of oysters, while the minerality of both wine and shellfish harmonize perfectly.
8. Sassicaia 2016
Produced by: Tenuta San Guido
Pairing: Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto
Sassicaia is one of the world’s most celebrated Super Tuscans, offering a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc with rich flavors of dark berries, spice, and tobacco. It’s an elegant, full-bodied wine with excellent aging potential.
Why it works: The bold tannins and earthy qualities of the wine balance the richness of the lamb, while the mint pesto adds a refreshing contrast to the dark fruit flavors.
9. Joseph Drouhin Chablis 2019
Produced by: Maison Joseph Drouhin
Pairing: Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce
A crisp, mineral-driven Chardonnay from the Chablis region of Burgundy, this wine has bright acidity and notes of green apple, citrus, and wet stone. It's an excellent choice for seafood lovers.
Why it works: The wine’s high acidity and citrus notes balance the richness of the scallops, while the minerality adds depth to the pairing.
10. Opus One 2018
Produced by: Opus One Winery
Pairing: Filet Mignon with Red Wine Reduction
A legendary Napa Valley red blend, Opus One offers layers of blackcurrant, dark cherry, tobacco, and cedar, with a velvety texture and great depth. It’s a perfect wine for a luxurious, special occasion meal.
Why it works: The wine’s smooth tannins and complex flavors match the tenderness of filet mignon, while the red wine reduction enhances the dish’s savory richness.
11. Louis Jadot Beaune 1er Cru 2018
Produced by: Maison Louis Jadot
Pairing: Mushroom Risotto
This elegant Pinot Noir from Burgundy delivers notes of red cherry, rose petal, and a touch of earthiness. The silky tannins and balanced acidity make it a versatile wine for pairing with a variety of dishes.
Why it works: The earthy flavors of the wine complement the umami of the mushrooms, while the wine’s acidity cuts through the creamy risotto texture.
12. Caymus Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Produced by: Caymus Vineyards
Pairing: Grilled Ribeye with Chimichurri
A Napa Valley classic, this bold Cabernet Sauvignon is full of dark fruit, cocoa, and vanilla, with a rich, full-bodied mouthfeel. Caymus is known for producing age-worthy wines that are perfect for pairing with rich meats.
Why it works: The wine’s firm tannins stand up to the bold flavors of a grilled ribeye, while the chimichurri’s acidity and herbs enhance the wine’s fruit and spice notes.
13. Ruinart Blanc de Blancs
Produced by: Ruinart Champagne
Pairing: Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Blinis
This Champagne is made entirely from Chardonnay, showcasing delicate bubbles and flavors of citrus, white flowers, and brioche. Ruinart is known for producing elegant and refined sparkling wines.
Why it works: The freshness and acidity of the Champagne cut through the richness of the smoked salmon, while the creamy blinis provide a delightful texture contrast.
14. Chateau d’Yquem Sauternes 2015
Produced by: Chateau d’Yquem
Pairing: Foie Gras with Fig Jam
One of the most famous sweet wines in the world, this Sauternes offers an exquisite balance of honeyed sweetness, stone fruits, and a hint of spice. It has a luscious texture and a long, lingering finish.
Why it works: The sweetness of the wine matches the richness of foie gras, while the fig jam adds an extra layer of fruit that complements the wine’s complex flavors.
15. Vega Sicilia Unico 2009
Produced by: Vega Sicilia
Pairing: Roasted Game Hen with Wild Mushrooms
This iconic Spanish red wine is a blend of Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon, offering a unique combination of black fruit, leather, tobacco, and spice. Known for its complexity and aging potential, Unico is a rare treat.
Why it works: The game hen’s savory flavors pair beautifully with the earthy and spicy notes of the wine, while the wild mushrooms highlight its complex, earthy character.
16. Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc 2021
Produced by: Kim Crawford Wines
Pairing: Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce
This popular New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is bright, crisp, and full of tropical fruit and citrus flavors. Kim Crawford is known for producing refreshing, easy-to-drink wines that are perfect for light meals.
Why it works: The wine’s vibrant acidity cuts through the richness of the hollandaise, while its herbaceous qualities enhance the flavor of the asparagus.
17. Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
Produced by: Silver Oak Cellars
Pairing: Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Balsamic Glaze
Silver Oak’s Napa Valley Cabernet is a rich, full-bodied wine with notes of blackberries, cassis, and a touch of oak. Known for its velvety texture and balanced tannins, it’s a great wine for hearty vegetarian dishes.
Why it works: The wine’s dark fruit flavors complement the meaty texture of the mushrooms, while the balsamic glaze adds a sweet-tart balance that elevates the pairing.
18. Gaja Barbaresco 2017
Produced by: Gaja Winery
Pairing: Braised Short Ribs with Polenta
This Barbaresco from Piedmont is made from Nebbiolo grapes and is known for its floral, tar, and red berry notes, with firm tannins and bright acidity. Gaja is a benchmark producer in Italy, and their wines are both powerful and elegant.
Why it works: The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of the short ribs, while its tannic structure complements the creamy polenta.
19. Château Léoville Las Cases 2010
Produced by: Château Léoville Las Cases
Pairing: Roasted Venison with Blackberry Sauce
This highly regarded Bordeaux wine from Saint-Julien offers deep flavors of cassis, black cherry, and graphite, with a long, structured finish. It’s a bold, powerful wine with excellent aging potential.
Why it works: The wine’s firm tannins and rich fruit flavors stand up to the gaminess of venison, while the blackberry sauce mirrors the wine’s dark berry notes.
20. Domaine Ott Château de Selle Rosé 2020
Produced by: Domaines Ott
Pairing: Grilled Shrimp with Garlic and Lemon
This pale rosé from Provence is fresh and vibrant, with flavors of peach, strawberry, and citrus. Domaine Ott is known for producing some of the finest rosés in the world, perfect for summer meals and light fare.
Why it works: The wine’s bright acidity and fruity notes complement the shrimp’s delicate flavor, while the garlic and lemon add a zesty kick that balances the pairing.
21. Château Margaux 2015
Produced by: Château Margaux
Pairing: Duck Breast with Cherry Glaze
One of Bordeaux’s premier wines, Château Margaux is known for its elegance, balance, and complexity. The 2015 vintage offers rich aromas of blackcurrant, violet, and tobacco, with a silky mouthfeel and well-integrated tannins.
Why it works: The fruit-forward flavors and tannic structure of the wine complement the richness of the duck, while the cherry glaze adds a touch of sweetness that mirrors the wine’s berry notes.
22. Domaine de la Romanée-Conti La Tâche 2016
Produced by: Domaine de la Romanée-Conti
Pairing: Grilled Quail with Truffle Oil
This renowned Grand Cru Pinot Noir from Burgundy is famous for its aromatic complexity, offering notes of red fruit, spice, and earthy truffle. It’s a wine of exceptional elegance and finesse.
Why it works: The earthiness of the truffle oil enhances the wine’s natural truffle and mushroom notes, while the delicate flavors of the quail pair beautifully with the wine’s soft tannins and bright acidity.
23. Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2021
Produced by: Cloudy Bay Vineyards
Pairing: Goat Cheese and Herb Crostini
Cloudy Bay’s Sauvignon Blanc is a benchmark wine from New Zealand’s Marlborough region, offering zesty flavors of lime, passion fruit, and fresh herbs. It’s crisp, refreshing, and perfect for light appetizers.
Why it works: The wine’s bright acidity cuts through the creamy texture of the goat cheese, while its herbaceous qualities complement the herbs in the crostini.
24. Château Pétrus 2018
Produced by: Château Pétrus
Pairing: Truffle Risotto
This iconic Merlot-based wine from Bordeaux’s Pomerol region is famous for its opulence and depth, with flavors of plum, dark chocolate, and exotic spices. Château Pétrus is known for producing some of the world’s most sought-after wines.
Why it works: The richness of the truffle risotto is enhanced by the wine’s velvety texture, while the earthy truffles complement the wine’s deep, dark fruit flavors.
25. Roederer Estate Brut Rosé
Produced by: Roederer Estate
Pairing: Tuna Tartare with Avocado
A vibrant sparkling wine from California, Roederer Estate’s Brut Rosé combines Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, offering flavors of red berries, citrus, and a hint of spice. It’s lively, elegant, and perfect for light seafood dishes.
Why it works: The wine’s acidity and bubbles refresh the palate, cutting through the richness of the avocado, while the berry flavors enhance the fresh taste of the tuna.
26. Château Montelena Chardonnay 2017
Produced by: Château Montelena
Pairing: Lobster Thermidor
This Napa Valley Chardonnay is famous for its balance of fruit and acidity, offering notes of apple, pear, and a touch of oak. Château Montelena’s wines are known for their age-worthiness and finesse.
Why it works: The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of the lobster, while its fruit-forward flavors enhance the buttery sauce of the Thermidor.
27. Dom Pérignon Vintage 2010
Produced by: Moët & Chandon
Pairing: Caviar and Blinis
This prestigious Champagne offers layers of citrus, white flowers, and toasted brioche, with a creamy texture and fine bubbles. Dom Pérignon is synonymous with luxury and celebration.
Why it works: The Champagne’s effervescence and acidity balance the richness of the caviar, while the brioche notes complement the buttery blinis.
28. Ridge Vineyards Monte Bello 2015
Produced by: Ridge Vineyards
Pairing: Roast Pork with Apple Sauce
A classic California Cabernet Sauvignon blend, Monte Bello offers rich flavors of blackcurrant, plum, and cedar, with firm tannins and excellent aging potential. It’s a bold yet balanced wine.
Why it works: The wine’s fruit and spice notes complement the sweet and savory flavors of the roast pork, while the apple sauce adds a refreshing contrast.
29. Château d’Issan 2016
Produced by: Château d’Issan
Pairing: Braised Lamb Shank with Rosemary
A classic Margaux wine, Château d’Issan offers notes of black cherry, violet, and cedar, with a silky texture and refined tannins. It’s an elegant Bordeaux with great aging potential.
Why it works: The wine’s herbal notes pair beautifully with the rosemary in the lamb, while its tannins complement the richness of the meat.
30. G.H. Mumm Grand Cordon Brut
Produced by: Maison Mumm
Pairing: Shrimp Tempura
A lively Champagne with bright citrus, green apple, and brioche flavors, Mumm Grand Cordon is perfect for celebrations or pairing with fried foods, thanks to its refreshing acidity and fine bubbles.
Why it works: The wine’s acidity cuts through the crispness of the tempura, while its citrus notes enhance the flavor of the shrimp.
31. Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore 2017
Produced by: Tenuta dell'Ornellaia
Pairing: Osso Buco with Gremolata
One of Tuscany’s most famous Super Tuscans, Ornellaia is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, offering dark fruit, leather, and spice notes. It’s a wine of power and elegance.
Why it works: The richness of the Osso Buco is balanced by the wine’s bold flavors and structure, while the gremolata’s citrus and herbs complement its complexity.
32. Châteauneuf-du-Pape Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe 2018
Produced by: Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe
Pairing: Grilled Sausages with Ratatouille
This classic Southern Rhône wine offers flavors of dark fruit, garrigue, and pepper, with firm tannins and a long finish. It’s a versatile wine that pairs well with hearty Mediterranean dishes.
Why it works: The wine’s spice and herbal notes complement the grilled sausages, while its acidity cuts through the richness of the ratatouille.
33. Bouchard Père & Fils Meursault 2019
Produced by: Bouchard Père & Fils
Pairing: Roast Chicken with Thyme and Garlic
This rich and complex Chardonnay from Burgundy offers flavors of ripe pear, honey, and a touch of oak, with a creamy texture and balanced acidity. It’s a great wine for pairing with roasted poultry.
Why it works: The wine’s creamy texture and ripe fruit flavors enhance the juicy roast chicken, while its acidity balances the richness of the garlic and thyme.
34. Château Haut-Brion 2014
Produced by: Château Haut-Brion
Pairing: Beef Wellington
A legendary Bordeaux wine, Château Haut-Brion is known for its complex aromas of blackcurrant, leather, tobacco, and earth. It’s a full-bodied wine with great aging potential.
Why it works: The wine’s tannins and earthy flavors match the richness of the beef and mushroom duxelles, while its dark fruit notes add depth to the dish.
35. Tignanello 2017
Produced by: Marchesi Antinori
Pairing: Bistecca alla Fiorentina
One of Italy’s most famous Super Tuscans, Tignanello is a blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, offering flavors of dark cherry, tobacco, and leather. It’s a bold, structured wine with excellent aging potential.
Why it works: The wine’s tannins and bold fruit flavors stand up to the richness of the steak, while its acidity cuts through the fat, creating a perfect balance.
36. Château Mouton Rothschild 2016
Produced by: Château Mouton Rothschild
Pairing: Roasted Goose with Chestnut Stuffing
This First Growth Bordeaux wine offers layers of blackcurrant, cedar, and spice, with a full-bodied texture and refined tannins. Château Mouton Rothschild is one of the most iconic names in wine.
Why it works: The wine’s bold flavors complement the richness of the roasted goose, while the chestnut stuffing adds a touch of sweetness that enhances the wine’s fruit notes.
37. Château Cheval Blanc 2017
Produced by: Château Cheval Blanc
Pairing: Lamb Chops with Mint Jelly
This prestigious Bordeaux wine from Saint-Émilion is a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, offering aromas of red berries, violet, and a hint of graphite. It’s known for its depth, elegance, and complex flavors.
Why it works: The mint jelly complements the lamb chops while enhancing the wine’s herbaceous and berry notes, creating a harmonious pairing.
38. Bodegas Vega Sicilia Unico 2012
Produced by: Bodegas Vega Sicilia
Pairing: Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Chimichurri
This iconic Spanish wine from Ribera del Duero is a blend of Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon, offering intense flavors of dark fruit, spice, and leather. It’s a powerful and complex wine with excellent aging potential.
Why it works: The wine’s bold flavors and structure match the richness of the beef tenderloin, while the chimichurri’s herbs and spices complement the wine’s complexity.
39. Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage 2018
Produced by: Domaine Jean-Louis Chave
Pairing: Slow-Braised Beef Short Ribs
A renowned Syrah from the Northern Rhône, this wine offers flavors of dark berries, black pepper, and earthy notes. It’s a wine of great depth and concentration, with firm tannins and a long finish.
Why it works: The wine’s robust flavors enhance the rich, meaty short ribs, while its peppery notes complement the dish’s savory qualities.
40. Joseph Drouhin Pouilly-Fuissé 2019
Produced by: Joseph Drouhin
Pairing: Creamy Mushroom Risotto
This elegant Chardonnay from Burgundy offers flavors of ripe peach, hazelnut, and a touch of oak. It’s a wine with a creamy texture and balanced acidity, making it perfect for pairing with rich dishes.
Why it works: The wine’s creaminess complements the risotto’s texture, while its nutty and fruity notes enhance the mushroom flavors.
41. Domaine de la Janasse Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2017
Produced by: Domaine de la Janasse
Pairing: Spicy Sausage Pasta
This rich and full-bodied Rhône wine offers flavors of black fruit, spice, and herbs, with a structured tannin profile and a long finish. It’s a versatile wine that pairs well with hearty dishes.
Why it works: The wine’s spice and fruit notes complement the spicy sausage, while its structure balances the richness of the pasta.
42. Tenuta San Guido Guidalberto 2018
Produced by: Tenuta San Guido
Pairing: Charcuterie Board
A younger sibling to Sassicaia, Guidalberto is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, offering flavors of red fruit, tobacco, and spice. It’s a refined and approachable wine with excellent balance.
Why it works: The wine’s fruit and spice notes pair well with a variety of cured meats and cheeses, enhancing the flavors of the charcuterie board.
43. Marchesi di Barolo Barolo 2016
Produced by: Marchesi di Barolo
Pairing: Osso Buco with Risotto
This classic Barolo offers flavors of cherry, rose, and earthy notes, with a firm tannin structure and complex layers. It’s a quintessential Nebbiolo wine with great aging potential.
Why it works: The wine’s tannins complement the richness of the Osso Buco, while its earthy and fruit notes enhance the risotto.
44. Rombauer Vineyards Zinfandel 2019
Produced by: Rombauer Vineyards
Pairing: BBQ Ribs
This bold Zinfandel from California offers flavors of blackberry, pepper, and a hint of oak. It’s a full-bodied wine with a rich, fruity profile, perfect for pairing with barbecue.
Why it works: The wine’s fruit and spice notes complement the smoky and sweet flavors of the BBQ ribs, creating a balanced pairing.
45. Joseph Phelps Insignia 2016
Produced by: Joseph Phelps Vineyards
Pairing: Filet Mignon with Béarnaise Sauce
This Napa Valley blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varieties offers flavors of blackcurrant, chocolate, and spice. It’s a luxurious wine with a velvety texture and a long finish.
Why it works: The wine’s rich flavors and tannins complement the filet mignon, while its structure balances the richness of the Béarnaise sauce.
46. Domaine Weinbach Gewürztraminer 2018
Produced by: Domaine Weinbach
Pairing: Spicy Thai Green Curry
This aromatic Alsace Gewürztraminer offers flavors of lychee, rose, and spice, with a rich texture and balanced sweetness. It’s a versatile wine that pairs well with spicy dishes.
Why it works: The wine’s sweetness and spice notes complement the heat of the curry, while its aromatic profile enhances the dish’s complex flavors.
47. Chassagne-Montrachet Domaine Ramonet 2018
Produced by: Domaine Ramonet
Pairing: Lobster with Lemon Butter Sauce
This prestigious Burgundy Chardonnay offers flavors of ripe citrus, white flowers, and a touch of oak, with a creamy texture and excellent minerality. It’s a refined wine ideal for pairing with seafood.
Why it works: The wine’s citrus and butter notes enhance the lobster’s richness, while its creamy texture complements the lemon butter sauce.
48. Paul Hobbs Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
Produced by: Paul Hobbs Winery
Pairing: Beef Wellington
This Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon offers flavors of blackcurrant, mocha, and cedar, with a full-bodied profile and structured tannins. It’s a bold wine perfect for rich dishes.
Why it works: The wine’s depth and fruit flavors match the richness of the Beef Wellington, while its tannins balance the buttery pastry.
49. Domaine Dujac Clos de la Roche 2017
Produced by: Domaine Dujac
Pairing: Duck Confit with Orange Sauce
This Grand Cru Burgundy Pinot Noir offers flavors of red fruit, earth, and spice, with a silky texture and a long finish. It’s an elegant wine with great complexity.
Why it works: The wine’s red fruit and earthy notes complement the duck’s rich flavors, while its acidity balances the sweet and tangy orange sauce.
50. Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve
Produced by: Charles Heidsieck
Pairing: Smoked Salmon Canapés
This prestigious Champagne offers flavors of apple, brioche, and almond, with a creamy texture and vibrant acidity. It’s a versatile Champagne that pairs well with a variety of appetizers.
Why it works: The Champagne’s acidity and bubbles refresh the palate, while its flavors enhance the smoky richness of the salmon.