California barbecue season has arrived, and with it, the search for the perfect menu and the perfect beverages. Beer may seem like a no-brainer, but what if you (or your guests) prefer something a bit more refined?
Class it up with a bottle of fine wine and discover a whole new world of pairing opportunities. Name a California wine, and you will almost certainly find a BBQ favorite to go with it, and vice versa. Of course, with so many options, you might not know where to start. When in doubt, stick with red. This should balance the umami from grilled meat.
BBQ Wine Pairing Basics
Wine selection often begins with figuring out what’s on the grill: an outdoor entertaining wine that pairs perfectly with pork ribs or kebabs might not go as well with burgers or brats. Sauce also makes a difference: think Carolina mustard versus Kansas City sweet.
Not sure what’s on the menu? A versatile red blend will be much appreciated. You can’t go wrong with bringing these favorites to your next summer BBQ:
Cabernet Sauvignon: The trusty Cab is a go-to for a steak dinner and continues to pair nicely when that steak is prepared on the grill. Really, though, Cabernet Sauvignon goes with just about any hearty BBQ dish: burgers, brisket, and beyond. The full-bodied structure (plus intense fruit flavors) should complement all your favorite marinades and certainly holds its own alongside smoky or charred meats.
Port: Bring out the port for your rib extravaganza and indulge with a full-bodied treat that features notes of caramel. Some dry wines might seem harsh alongside smoked ribs, but that’s not a problem with port; its rich flavors provide the perfect complement. BBQ wine pairing advice tends to focus on the main course meats, but don’t forget about dessert; sip on port as you enjoy grilled fruit or even make s’mores; this is how you keep the conversation and the wine flowing.
Imperial Red: As the true BBQ champ, San Antonio Winery’s Imperial Red is a solid choice when you’re not sure what’s on the menu, but you need something that will hold up to any grilled meat. This tried-and-tested blend is the very definition of versatile; its flavor stands up to (but doesn’t overpower) bold flavors off the grill and also works wonderfully with a variety of sauces. It’s a great summer red wine for any occasion and will feel like a natural fit for your next BBQ.
Chardonnay: Don’t worry if you or your guests prefer white wines; many whites hold up to grilled meats better than you’d think. In fact, if lighter fare (like chicken) is on the grill, a white wine might actually be preferable. Chardonnay is a versatile option that works as nicely with meat as it does with a crisp summer salad. Other whites also get the job done: Riesling to balance heat, for example, or Pinot Grigio for kebabs.
Discover the Best California Wines for Barbecue Season
Prepare for an unforgettable barbecue and stock up on your favorite summer wines. Bold, refreshing, or sweet, the right outdoor entertaining wine will level up your California BBQ.​
FAQs
Should I bring red or white wine to a summer BBQ?
Both can work beautifully, but it really comes down to what’s on the grill. Bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Imperial Red tend to be the safer bet, since their structure holds up to smoky, charred, and richly sauced meats. But don’t count out the whites: a crisp Chardonnay, Riesling, or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, seafood, or lighter summer fare. When in doubt, bring one of each and let your guests decide.
What’s the best wine to bring if I don’t know what’s on the menu?
A versatile red blend is your safest pick, and San Antonio Winery’s Imperial Red was practically made for this scenario. It’s bold enough to stand up to brisket and burgers, but balanced enough not to overwhelm lighter dishes, and it plays nicely with sweet, smoky, tangy, and mustard-based sauces alike. Think of it as the wine equivalent of a host’s gift that always lands well.
Should wine be chilled for an outdoor BBQ?
Whites, rosés, and sparkling wines should be served well-chilled, especially once the temperature starts climbing. Reds are a bit more forgiving, but they can lose their balance in direct summer heat. A quick 15–20 minutes in the fridge or an ice bucket before serving helps reds drink fresher and more refreshing outdoors. Once they’re opened, try to keep bottles in the shade.
What wine pairs best with sweet or spicy BBQ sauces?
The sauce can make or break a pairing. For sweet, sticky sauces, think Kansas City-style ribs, a fruit-forward Cabernet Sauvignon, or a glass of Port, which beautifully balances the sugar. For tangy or vinegar-based sauces like Carolina-style, a Riesling cools the heat and refreshes the palate, while a versatile red blend like Imperial Red pairs with nearly any sauce on the table.
Does San Antonio Winery offer wines that are great for outdoor entertaining?
Absolutely, the Riboli family’s lineup includes plenty of crowd-pleasers for summer gatherings. Imperial Red and Specialty Port are longtime favorites for grilled meats and grilled-fruit desserts. From the Maddalena label, the Chardonnay and Riesling pair beautifully with lighter fare. And for something fun and celebratory, the family’s Stella Rosa semi-sweet, semi-sparkling wines add a festive touch to any backyard gathering. You can pick up your favorites at the online shop or at any of the three tasting room locations in Los Angeles, Ontario, and Paso Robles.