Lamb Wine Pairing: Our 7 Favorite Wines To Pair With!

  • Last Updated - 6/9/23
lamb wine pairing

Quick Answer: So there are many options to go with amongst red wines. But I choose Cabernet Sauvignon, Rioja, and Chianti as my lamb wine pairing favorites! Due to their complementary flavor profiles, tannin structures, and acidity levels. The bold fruit flavors and high tannins balance the richness of the lamb, while their earthy and herbal notes harmonize with the meat's natural flavors.

For some, they may find lamb a bit too gamey. However, for people like me, lamb is always one of my preferred choices whenever I see it on the a menu! Lamb is such a tender and flavorful meat. And whether its roast lamb, grilled lamb, or braised lamb, it offers a fantastic taste experience that begs for an exquisite red wine to accompany it.

With so many red wine options available, finding the perfect pairing can be a daunting task. This article will guide you through the art of lamb wine pairing, ensuring that your next meal featuring lamb will be a memorable one.

Table of Contents

What are Lamb Flavor Profiles?

To successfully pair wine with lamb, it’s essential to understand the distinct flavors of the meat. Lamb is rich, tender, and succulent, with a distinct earthy taste that varies depending on the cut and cooking method. Common flavor notes found in lamb include:

  1. Gamey: Lamb can have a gamey taste, especially if it is grass-fed.
  2. Earthy: A subtle, earthy taste is often present in lamb, which can be emphasized by seasoning and cooking techniques.
  3. Herbal: Lamb’s natural flavors often pair well with herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano.

7 Best Wine Pairings for Lamb

1) Cabernet Sauvignon

costco cabernet sauvignon

This full-bodied red wine is an excellent choice for roast lamb or grilled lamb. Its high tannin content and bold fruit flavors can stand up to the richness of the meat, while its herbal and earthy notes harmonize with the lamb’s natural flavors.

Finally, the proteins in the meat will help soften the tannins, resulting in a more smooth and delicious pairing.

BEST CABERNET SAUVIGNON

2) Syrah

detective cabernet and syrah best wine at wegmans

Syrah is a versatile red wine that pairs well with a range of lamb dishes. And therefore, one of my favorite wine with lamb pairings. Mainly, because of its peppery, and dark fruit flavors will accentuate the spices of the lamb dish.

Also the medium to full tannins in Syrah help to soften the fattiness of the meat, creating a balanced pairing. 

Furthermore, Syrah’s versatility allows it to pair successfully with a range of lamb dishes, from grilled or smoked to those featuring spices and herbs.

BEST SHIRAZ

3) Rioja

A Spanish red wine classic, Rioja is a wonderful choice for lamb dishes with bold, rustic flavors. The red wine’s oak aging and earthy undertones complement the meat’s natural taste, while its acidity and tannins balance the dish.

Lastly, Rioja’s affinity for lamb is particularly evident when pairing with rustic or Mediterranean-inspired lamb dishes. A perfect wine with lamb pairing!

BEST TEMPRANILLO

4) Pinot Noir

pinot noir pinot noir

For lighter lamb dishes, such as rack of lamb or lamb chops, a medium-bodied Pinot Noir is a great option. Its bright fruit flavors and soft tannins won’t overpower the dish. Plus, the Pinot Noir has earthy notes that will accentuate the lamb’s flavors.

I’d recommend choosing a Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley or Burgundy red wine regions. 

BEST PINOT NOIR

5) Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Domaine du Père Caboche Vieilles Vignes Elisabeth Chambellan Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2019

This full-bodied red wine with a complex flavor profile and well-integrated tannins offers a harmonious blend of ripe red and black fruit flavors, spicy and earthy notes, and herbal undertones that complement the richness and gaminess of lamb.

Additionally, the wine’s moderate-to-high tannin structure and balanced acidity help to cut through the fattiness of the meat, resulting in a satisfying food and wine experience. Another fantastic wine with lamb pairing that you must try!

BEST CHATEAUNEUF DU PAPE

6) Chianti

best wine at costco

For Italian-style lamb dishes, such as lamb ragù or osso buco, a Chianti is a natural red wine choice. Its bright acidity and moderate tannins will balance the richness of the dish, and its cherry and earthy flavors will complement the meat.

BEST ITALIAN REDS

7) Cava

Segura Viudas Cava Reserva Heredad Brut

While sparkling wine might not be the first choice for pairing with lamb, it can work well in certain situations, especially when the lamb is prepared in a lighter style or accompanied by a bright and refreshing sauce.

This Spanish sparkling wine, made using the traditional method, can have a creamy texture and flavors of citrus, apple, and toasted nuts. A fuller-bodied Cava can pair well with Mediterranean-style lamb dishes, such as tapas or small plates featuring lamb. Plus, the wine’s bubbles and acidity can help cleanse the palate and cut through the richness of the meat.

BEST CAVA

Tips For Lamb Wine Pairing

lamb wine pairing

Pairing wine with lamb can be a delightful experience when done correctly. To help you find the perfect match, follow these tips:

  1. Consider the cut of lamb: Different cuts of lamb have varying flavors and textures. For example, a leg of lamb is more robust in flavor compared to a delicate rack of lamb. Choose a wine that complements the specific cut of lamb you are serving.
  2. Pay attention to cooking methods: The way you cook your lamb will influence the flavors and textures of the dish. For grilled or barbecued lamb, opt for a wine with more intense flavors and tannins. For braised or slow-cooked lamb, consider a wine with softer tannins and more nuanced flavors.
  3. Factor in sauces and seasonings: The flavors of your sauces, marinades, or seasonings will play a significant role in the overall taste of the dish. Choose a wine that complements the dominant flavors of your dish, whether they are spicy, sweet, or herbaceous.
  4. Choose a wine with similar weight: The weight of the wine should match the richness of the lamb dish. Full-bodied red wines pair well with heavier lamb dishes, while lighter-bodied red wines are better suited for more delicate preparations.
  5. Opt for moderate acidity: Wines with moderate acidity can help to cut through the richness of lamb, providing a balanced and refreshing taste experience.
  6. Match region with region: If you’re cooking a lamb dish inspired by a specific region or cuisine, consider selecting a wine from the same region. This can create a harmonious and authentic pairing.

Choosing the Right Wine

The key to a successful pairing is finding a wine that complements and enhances the flavors of the lamb dish. When selecting a wine, consider the following factors:

  1. Weight: Choose a wine with a similar weight to the dish, so neither overpowers the other.
  2. Acidity: A wine with moderate acidity can help cut through the richness of lamb and cleanse the palate.
  3. Tannins: Tannins in wine can soften the fattiness of lamb, providing a balanced taste experience.

What are the Most Popular Lamb Dishes?

lamb curry. young lamb chops, lamb curry, lamb meat, lamb stew

  1. Roast Leg of Lamb: A classic dish, particularly popular in Europe and North America, featuring a whole leg of roast lamb with herbs and spices, often accompanied by roasted vegetables and gravy.

  2. Lamb Chops: Tender cuts of meat from the rib or loin, often grilled, pan-seared, or broiled, and served with a variety of sauces or seasonings.

  3. Rack of Lamb: A visually impressive dish consisting of a portion of the lamb’s ribcage, often roasted with a crust of herbs and breadcrumbs.

  4. Lamb Kebabs: Popular in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, lamb kebabs feature marinated cubes or minced lamb, skewered and grilled or roasted, often served with rice, salad, and dipping sauces.

  5. Lamb Shank: One of my favorites! It’s a slow-cooked or braised dish featuring the lower part of the lamb’s leg, known for its tender, falling-off-the-bone meat and rich flavors.

  6. Lamb Curry: Popular in Indian cuisine, spicy lamb curry features tender lamb pieces cooked in a rich and aromatic sauce made with various spices and ingredients, such as tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and yogurt.

  7. Moussaka: A Greek dish consisting of layered, thinly sliced eggplant, ground lamb, tomato sauce, and béchamel sauce, baked until golden and bubbly.

  8. Lamb Tagine: A Moroccan dish named after the traditional earthenware pot it’s cooked in, featuring slow-cooked lamb with a variety of vegetables, fruits, and spices, often served with couscous or rice.

Summary

The perfect wine pairing can elevate your lamb dish from ordinary to extraordinary. By considering the flavors and textures of both the lamb and the wine, you can create a harmonious and delicious dining experience. 

Whether you prefer a bold Cabernet or a bright Chianti, there’s a wine out there that will perfectly complement your lamb dish. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different varietals and flavors. 

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