This isn't just your average BBQ and wine pairing guide. We are diving deeper by looking around the world and taking inspiration from regions where cooking with fire is a year-round tradition.
Argentina has the legendary asado. This isn't just a meal; it's a social event. Picture a long afternoon with friends and family, slowly grilling an array of meats over a wood fire. Traditional cuts like ribeye (ojo de bife), flank (vacio), and short ribs (costillas) are staples. Malbec is one of the easiest and most obvious choices but don't be afraid to explore the other varietals and blends that the country offers - nearly all will be a perfect match for your home BBQ. Argentina also does a great job of covering all price points so they can cover a bangers and burgers affair right through to the prime cuts.
For those inspired to master this art, Cornish Chef Rupert at the Philleigh Way Cookery School will take you on an Argentinian grilling odyssey with the Asado Course where you'll perfect the techniques and flavours that make asado a beloved tradition.
South Africa has the braai, a vibrant and communal grilling tradition that is more than just cooking—it's a way of life. Couple this with their world-class wines and you have another simple pairing. The Lanzerac Pinotage would be a great option here but I would also pick out the Andreas Syrah. It is made by Shaun Meyeridricks, formerly of Boekenhoutskloof (anyone heard of The Chocolate Block?) and he's a guy who knows how to handle Syrah. Holden Manz Chenin Blanc would be a great option for chicken or pork.
In the USA, barbecue is more than a cooking method—it's a cornerstone of American culture. We recommend the Avalon wines: their Zinfandel would be a great all rounder whist we'd look at their Cabernet Sauvignon to pair with chargrilled steak or pork. The Chardonnay would be great with salmon or chicken and also pair well with the salads on the side.
Continuing with New World wines, Australia is another excellent option. Plenty of entry level options with the Barramundi and Crooked Mick wines but you can go upmarket with the Paxton Shiraz/Grenache blend and the Flametree Chardonnay would be an absolute knockout choice for a white. It would be equally comfortable pairing with prawns, chicken, salmon and mind-blowing with corn on the cob.
Rioja also needs to get a mention here. It is a fantastic treat in Rioja to get a meal cooked using the cuttings from the vines as the fuel. Here lamb, pork and chorizo sausages are the mainstays on the grill. Here we'd look at the wines of Real Agrado & Artuke. They are all more fruit forward and less about the oak and would compliment all of those smoky flavours beautifully.
The Eastern Mediterranean is also another great area to get some inspiration from. For those having an upmarket meal the Chateau Musar 1998 would be an incredible option. If you were going more mezze style then the Prinos Syrah would be a good pick and the Diamantopetra White would be an outstanding white option.
If you’re seeking a truly unique dining experience, consider attending a Feast Night at Hidden Hut. These events provide a fantastic opportunity to savour local, seasonal dishes in a communal, outdoor setting. The rich flavours of the meals are elevated by the aromas and charred perfection that only a live fire can deliver. For more details on upcoming Feast Nights and to book your spot, visit their Feast Nights page.
Photo Credit: Danny North
A final mention should also go to the Avesso Curtimenta - an orange wine. If you are tempted to try an orange wine then this is your opportunity. A BBQ is where they shine as their mix of fruit, acidity and structure is perfect in this setting.
As a footnote, these wines also work wonderfully indoors, should the weather force you to quickly rethink your plans.
