A barbecue with friends and family is a joyous and heart warming gathering that brings people together in a relaxed and festive atmosphere. It’s a celebration of not just delicious food and wine, but also of togetherness, laughter, and shared memories.

However when it comes to pairing wine with a barbecue, you’ll want wines that can complement the bold flavours, smokiness, and varied textures of grilled foods. Here are some wine options that can work well with different types of barbecue dishes:

1. Zinfandel: Zinfandel is a versatile red wine that often pairs well with barbecued meats. Its juicy fruitiness and peppery notes can complement smoky and spicy flavors. Zinfandel can work with various barbecue styles, from ribs to sausages.
2. Syrah/Shiraz: Syrah, known as Shiraz in Australia, is a robust red wine with dark fruit flavours, spice, and sometimes a smoky character. It can stand up to the intensity of grilled meats and works well with dishes like smoked brisket or grilled lamb.
3. Malbec: Malbec is a red wine with ripe fruit flavours, often with a touch of smokiness. Its approachable character makes it a good match for barbecue fare like grilled burgers, steak, and even barbecue chicken.
4. Cabernet Sauvignon: Cabernet Sauvignon’s bold structure and dark fruit flavours can complement the richness of grilled meats. It pairs nicely with well-marbled cuts like ribeye or a hearty steak.
5. Rosé: A dry rosé wine can provide a refreshing and versatile option for barbecue. Its acidity and fruitiness can balance the flavours of grilled vegetables, chicken, seafood, and even lighter meats.
6. Chardonnay (Oak-Aged): If you’re grilling seafood or creamy dishes like grilled corn, an oak-aged Chardonnay can offer a pleasant contrast with its buttery texture and notes of vanilla and toast.
7. Sauvignon Blanc: Sauvignon Blanc’s bright acidity and herbaceous notes can work well with grilled vegetables, lighter meats like chicken or turkey, and dishes with zesty marinades.
8. Grenache: This red wine offers a combination of fruitiness, spiciness, and earthiness that can pair nicely with a range of grilled dishes, from sausages to pork chops.
9. Tempranillo: This red wine, particularly in its Spanish form, can provide a good match for barbecued meats with its fruity and sometimes smoky characteristics.

Remember, personal preference plays a significant role in wine pairing. The best approach is to offer a variety of wine options at your barbecue to cater to different tastes. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find what combinations work best for you and your guests.

In the end, a barbecue with friends and family is more than just a meal – it’s an experience that warms the heart, nourishes the soul, and leaves everyone with a sense of gratitude for the simple pleasures of life and the love of those around them.