Nothing quite says special occasion like a juicy beef tenderloin. Finding the perfect match between food and wine can be tricky but rewarding when done properly.
With so many delicious options available – from light whites to robust reds. The key when pairing wines with beef tenderloin is finding a balance between a full-bodied wine with enough acidity and tannin structure to set off the earthy flavors of the meat while also not overpowering it.
With any of these varietals, you can create an unforgettable meal! Encountering the ideal match is easier than you think.
So, let’s explore some of the best wine pairings for beef tenderloin and provide some expert recommendations to help you find the ideal bottle for your next dinner party.
What are some general tips for wine Pairing with Beef Tenderloin?
1. Consider the cut of beef:
For a leaner cut like a filet mignon, a red wine with medium to high acidity can help to bring out the flavor. Wines such as pinot noir, Beaujolais, and Chianti would be good choices.
For more marbled cuts of beef like rib-eye or porterhouse, try a full-bodied red wine with strong tannins such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah/Shiraz, Malbec, or Zinfandel.
2. Balance the flavors in the dish
If your dish has bold flavors such as garlic and herbs, you may want to opt for a bolder, fuller-bodied red wine.
For milder preparations like roasted beef tenderloin, you may prefer something lighter such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais.
Similarly, if you’re using spicy ingredients like garlic or chili peppers in your recipe, then choose a Zinfandel, which has just enough spice to cut through those bold flavors without being too overbearing.
If you’re using fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme in your beef tenderloin preparation, then look for wines with herbal notes such as Cabernet Franc or Sangiovese which will enhance those flavors without overpowering them.
3. Another factor to take into consideration is how sweet or acidic each component is.
When pairing food and wine, it helps to look for complimentary flavors that balance one another out. If your beef tenderloin is on the sweeter side (such as when served with a red wine reduction sauce), then opt for an off-dry white such as Riesling or Gewürztraminer, which will provide just enough sweetness to complement the dish without overwhelming it.
On the other hand, if your dish is more acidic (think lemon parsley butter or balsamic glaze), then opt for an acidic white such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio which will bring out its bright flavors without making them too overwhelming.
4. Balance the richness of the dish
If your dish has rich sauces and gravies, choose a wine that can stand up to those flavors without being overpowering. Try a full-bodied red such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah/Shiraz.
5. Consider other ingredients in the dish
The types of vegetables, grains, or starches used in the accompaniments can help determine which type of wine is best suited to pair with beef tenderloin.
For example, if you’re serving mashed potatoes with your beef, a medium-bodied red such as Merlot or Sangiovese may pair better than a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon.
21 Best Wines pairing with Beef Tenderloin
A countless number of wines go with beef tenderloin; here is the list…
Best Red Wine Goes with Beef Tenderloin
When it comes to red wines, there is no shortage of options when it comes to pairing with beef tenderloin.
Coteaux du Vendômois – Red
Coteaux du Vendômois Red is an ideal choice to partner with beef tenderloin. This smooth and balanced red wine hails from the southwestern region of France and pairs perfectly with rich, savory flavors.
Its notes of black cherry, licorice, and smoky nuances will complement the caramelized flavors that result from searing the beef tenderloin.
The subtle tannins in this medium-bodied red will cut through the richness of the dish without overpowering it, making for a delightful dining experience.
You can pair Coteaux du Vendômois – Red with other dishes as well, such as lamb chops or roasted chicken.
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The herbal and earthy flavors of this red will lend complexity to any meat-based dish and provide a delightful counterpoint to creamy side dishes like mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
Cabernet-Merlot
Cabernet-Merlot is also an excellent option due to its softer tannins and subtle fruity flavor. This blend of two classic red grapes has a deep, robust flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich cut of meat.
This full-bodied red has aromas of ripe berry, plum, and cassis with a hint of smokiness. On the palate, you’ll find flavors of dark fruit with subtle notes of mocha and pepper.
Cabernet-Merlot will bring out the best in this flavorful cut without overpowering it. Plus, its intense tannins provide a great counterbalance to the richness of the meat.
You can pair merlot with other dishes as well, such as grilled eggplant or squash. At the same time, its bold flavors are also complemented nicely by hearty stews and braised dishes.
Merlot’s aromas of blackberry, plum, chocolate, oak, and leather also pair nicely with earthy mushrooms and game meats like venison or duck.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with steak because of its big body and full-bodied taste that balances the richness of beef tenderloin.
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Its bold tannins help cut through the fat and give a pleasant aftertaste.
Cabernet Sauvignon has complex flavors of black currant, blackberry, cedar, and tobacco. It pairs beautifully with beef tenderloin due to its bold flavor profile.
The beef’s creamy texture and juicy fat content balance the wine’s firmness, creating a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Furthermore, the char from searing the beef tenderloin brings out the smoky notes of the Cabernet Sauvignon for an added layer of complexity.
Cabernet Sauvignon also goes with beef burgers, lamb chops, and other types of game meats, as its bold flavors stand up to stronger-tasting proteins.
For an exciting twist, try serving alongside a salsa or chutney for extra sweetness and complexity.
Cabernet Sauvignon can be enjoyed with strong cheeses such as blue cheese and Gorgonzola due to the contrast between the full-bodied red wine and the creamy texture of these robust cheeses.
Serve alongside crusty bread for an indulgent snack.
Chianti Classico (DOCG)
Chianti Classico (DOCG) is an excellent choice for any beef tenderloin dish you may be cooking to impress your dinner guests.
It has a slightly tannic flavor, which pairs perfectly with the natural flavor of beef and is sure to give your recipe that extra flare it needs.
Chianti Classico (DOCG) is also quite versatile in that it goes well with heavier meats like pork and lamb as well as lighter fish recipes; this makes it a great choice for any kind of dinner party menu.
Its bright acidity can really make colors like reds, greens, and blues pop on individual plates or platters, making every bite of food delightful both visually and taste-wise.
Combine its versatility with its smooth finish, and it’s an ideal red wine for any occasion.
Malbec
Malbec is a deep and robust red wine that is a great choice with its bold flavors of dark fruit and spice that bring out the juicy, savory nature of the steak.
Its full-bodied flavor profile holds up against the richness of the beef without overpowering or becoming overwhelmed.
The intense fruit flavors of Malbec, such as blackberry and plum, create a delightful balance with the tenderloin’s umami characteristics.
Additionally, its soft tannins make it an excellent companion to more fatty cuts of beef, helping to cleanse the palate between bites.
When selecting a bottle of Malbec to pair with beef tenderloin, look for wines from Argentina or Chile that are aged in oak barrels.
· These styles tend to have more robust flavors, lending them well to being paired with steak dishes like beef tenderloin.
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir can also bring out the subtle flavors of beef tenderloin with its light cherry or raspberry notes and low tannins that don’t overpower the steak.
Pinot Noir has a deep flavor profile of earthy and spicy notes that complements the richness of the beef. The tart cherry and red berry notes of a good Pinot Noir also contribute to making it an ideal pairing for this type of dish.
Because of its light-bodied nature, Pinot Noir has a relatively low tannin content, which makes it easier to pair with a wide variety of foods due to its versatility.
Additionally, the oak barrel-influenced notes that are often present in Pinot Noir help to balance out the fat content in beef dishes.
Pinot Noir’s ability to provide complementary flavors while still allowing the flavors of the dish to shine through make it an ideal wine for serving with beef tenderloin.
Carménère
Carménère is an incredibly versatile red wine, often described as the signature grape of Chile. Its flavors are reminiscent of dark cherries, blackberries, pepper, and tobacco, making it a perfect accompaniment to many dishes.
When paired with Churrasco with Pebre (Beef Tenderloin and Cilantro Sauce), the result is a dynamic and enticing combination.
The peppery notes of Carménère cut through the richness of the beef and cilantro sauce while providing a balance to the dish’s bold spices.
The high acidity in Carménère also helps to lift the flavors in the dish, making them even more complex and enjoyable.
This mouthwatering pairing is sure to please any palate – no matter how adventurous.
Zinfandel
Zinfandel is another excellent choice for a drink with beef tenderloin as it brings out complex flavors from both red and dark fruits as well as vanilla, pepper, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice.
Zinfandel’s amazingly versatile southern Italian grape variety can be used to produce either sweet dessert wines with high alcohol content or fresh, fruit-forward young wines.
The juicy berry flavors in Zinfandel provide the ideal contrast to the richness of beef tenderloin and its notes of umami and herbs.
In fact, Zinfandel is often referred to as the “steakhouse red,” as it is often paired with hearty steaks. A luxurious pairing is a bold and oaky California Zinfandel.
Super Tuscan
The Super Tuscan is another excellent choice of wine to go with beef tenderloin. Featuring a unique fusion of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sangiovese grapes, this Italian red is known for its robust flavor and deep richness.
Its powerful tannins cut through the natural flavors of the meat while still allowing them to shine, creating a perfect balance on the palate.
Tempranillo
Tempranillo is a full-bodied red wine that originates from Spain. It is highly versatile in terms of pairings and goes exceptionally well with beef tenderloin.
This Spanish varietal has a bold also balanced flavor profile; it also contains high levels of tannins that are ideal for cutting through the richness of the beef.
Tempranillo features notes of dark cherry, blackberry, and plum, which together blend to create a unique bouquet with hints of leather, tobacco, and baking spices.
Its medium acidity brings out the savory depth in the beef tenderloin and adds complexity to the overall flavor of the dish.
With its long finish, Tempranillo is an excellent choice for accompanying a luxurious cut of meat like beef tenderloin.
Given its powerful characteristics and robust flavor, Tempranillo is an ideal match for the upscale flavor of beef tenderloin.
It brings out the nuances in both the wine and the dish, creating a pairing that will leave you wanting more.
The best White wine goes with beef tenderloin
White wine, when paired with succulent beef tenderloin, creates an unforgettable culinary experience.
The acidity of the white wine helps to manage the fattiness of the tenderloin, resulting in a beautiful balance of flavors.
Chardonnay
Many choose to serve a glass of Chardonnay with their lavish beef. With its crisp acidity, this white wine serves as an excellent foil for creamy sauces and mellow flavors commonly associated with beef dishes such as steak au Poivre or Carpaccio di Manzo.
It is also able to stand up against heavier and spicier dishes, making it a versatile accompaniment for many dishes involving beef tenderloin.
White Bordeaux
White Bordeaux is a full-bodied white wine that has a smooth texture and layers of complexity that complement the depth of flavor in a cooked tenderloin.
It also works well with grilled vegetables, mustard sauce, and variations of potatoes, making it an excellent accompaniment for many sides.
White Bordeaux varies from vineyard to vineyard but is typically comprised of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon grapes; its subtle notes of spice and citrus will elevate any beef tenderloin dinner to new culinary heights.
Other Pairing a White Wine with Beef Tenderloin
- · Pinot Grigio
- · Sauvignon Blanc
- · Riesling
- · Viognier
Pairing a Sparkling Wine or Champagne with Beef Tenderloin
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try pairing sparkling wines or champagnes with your beef tenderloin dish!
Sparkling wines like Prosecco or Cava offer bright, citrusy notes that help cut through the richness of this meal while still being light and refreshing at the same time.
For something a bit more special, champagne is an indulgent choice that pairs exquisitely with this dish thanks to its complex flavor profile and bubbly texture!
Best Italian wine with beef tenderloin
Amarone della Valpolicella
A great Italian wine to pair with a beef tenderloin is Amarone della Valpolicella. This robust red is known for its robust flavors of blackberries, cherries, and spice that pair perfectly with a juicy steak.
Its high tannins also make it ideal for cutting through the fatty flavors of the beef while still letting the natural flavors shine through.
Amarone della Valpolicella is an excellent choice for a special occasion or dinner party, as it is often more expensive than other Italian wines.
Nebbiolo
Red meat is a beautiful part of a balanced diet, and it’s even better when enjoyed with the perfect wine. Nebbiolo, an Italian grape variety grown in Piedmont, is the ideal choice for beef tenderloin.
This full-bodied red has higher-than-average tannin levels and boasts a seductive dry taste that goes beautifully with beef.
Tubal pairs Nebbiolo with beef tenderloin due to its juicy beef and earthy flavors, making it an irresistible dish suitable for special occasions such as birthdays or anniversaries.
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Sangiovese
Sangiovese, an Italian grape varietal, is notable for its freshness and vibrancy, which pair perfectly with tenderloin’s savory character.
Sangiovese can range from light to full-bodied depending on the region where it was grown, so there’s a flavor profile available for any taste.
With its earthy undertones, smooth tannins, and hints of cherries and citrus fruit, Sangiovese stands out as one of the best wines for beef tenderloin entrees.
It’s sure to enhance your evening meal and add that special something to your dinner table.
Barbera
When thinking about a delicious cut of beef tenderloin, the perfect accompaniment is a robust and full-bodied red wine like Barbera.
This Italian wine has deepened aromas of cherry and raspberry and is balanced with subtle notes of oak and spice.
Its velvety texture pairs beautifully with the buttery texture of beef tenderloin, bringing out flavors in both the wine and the meat that can’t be achieved when they are enjoyed separately.
For an extra special meal, serve this pairing at your table to create a dining experience you will remember for a long time.
That’s all… I hope this wine list is enough for enjoying beef Tenderloin.
FAQs
Does Pinot Noir go with beef tenderloin?
Yes, Pinot Noir is a great choice of wine to pair with beef tenderloin. The light and fruity yet earthy character of the wine complements the subtle flavors of beef tenderloin perfectly.
Its delicate tannins are not overpowering and can help to soften the rich texture of the meat.
Additionally, Pinot Noir’s bright acidity helps to cut through any bolder sauces or glazes while still providing a nice balance on the palate.
Can I use the same wine with beef tenderloin and filet mignon?
Beef tenderloin and filet mignon are both cut from the same part of the beef, so you can pair the same wine with both cuts of beef, such as Pinot Noir.