Some flavors were made for each other—Cabernet and steak, Sauvignon Blanc and seafood, Pinot Noir and a crisp evening dining on a patio. If you enjoy a delicious dinner, you know that finding the perfect wine to accompany your meal can really take it to the next level. Great pairings don’t happen by accident; they’re a careful balance of enhancing tastes, texture, and tradition.  A well-chosen glass of wine can bring out the deep, smoky richness of a perfectly seared steak or highlight the delicate citrus notes in fresh seafood. 

We understand that choosing the right wine pairing for your meal should feel effortless, not intimidating. Our expert team at Stanford’s is here to guide you through drink options that highlight the best in every dish, from steak, seafood, and more. 

Best Wine Pairings For Seafood – White & Sparkling

For lighter and more delicate seafood dishes, few drinks are a better fit than a deliciously crisp white wine. Seafood is oftentimes cooked with lemon and citrus components, making it a perfect dish to combine with the citrus, fruity, and aromatic notes found in many white wines. Some of our favorite wines to pair with seafood, according to the expertise of our culinary specialists in addition to  food and wine pairing charts) are sparkling wines like champagne, prosecco, or cava. These delicious sparkling wines are robust enough to accent even the boldest flavors of seafood while their effervescence is bubbly enough to compete with fried foods as well. 

• Best Wine for Lean White Fish – Flounder, halibut, snapper, and shellfish pair well with Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These dry, crisp wines enhance the natural brininess of the dish without overpowering it.
• Best Wine for Richer Seafood – Striped bass and lobster can stand up to fuller-bodied white wines like an oak-aged Chardonnay or a flavorful Viognier, adding depth to the dish.
• White Wine in Cooking – Many seafood dishes are prepared with white wine, so ask your server which pairing best complements your meal.

The Best Wine Pairings for Steak – Bold Reds and Blends

Steak is a deep and complex dish, and depending on the cut of beef you are eating, your recommended wines can vary drastically. The best wine for steak is determined by its texture and richness. We’ve all heard of the classic pairing of an Old Fashioned with your steak, as the spiciness of the bourbon can elevate a beautifully seasoned steak, but a fine glass of red wine can easily accomplish the same goal without the aftertaste of hard alcohol. 

• Best Wine for Steak -Fattier cuts like a ribeye or New York strip pair well with Syrah or Malbec. Both have bold, robust flavors that stand up to marbled beef.
• For A  Leaner Cut – Filet mignon or flank steak benefits from Cabernet Sauvignon or a Bordeaux blend, as their higher tannins more effectively balance the meat’s texture.
• Pairing Based on Seasoning – Pepper-crusted or spice-rubbed steaks pair well with wines like Zinfandel or Shiraz, while herb-butter steaks are best when enjoyed with a Merlot or Pinot Noir.

Best Wine Pairings for Pasta, Ham, and Lamb

• Pasta – Chianti is the go-to for tomato-based sauces, balancing acidity and richness, while Chardonnay enhances the creamy texture of cheese-based pastas.
• Ham – The salty-sweet flavors pair best with Pinot Noir, offering bright fruit notes that add contrast.
• Lamb – Cabernet Sauvignon brings structure and depth, complementing the bold, savory flavors of lamb.

Experience Perfect Food & Wine Pairings at Stanford’s

If you are looking for the perfect place to get out and enjoy a delicious dinner, look no further than Stanford’s. Our expert service staff will help you find the perfect pairing for both your meal and your palate.