Choosing a wine for dinner doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you know your favorite varietal or need a little guidance, a few simple principles can help you find a wine that complements your meal.

Red or White?

Start with the main ingredients and how they’re prepared. Crisp whites often pair well with seafood, poultry, and lighter dishes, while fuller-bodied reds complement steak, lamb, and richer sauces. But there’s no hard rule. The sauce, seasoning, and preparation can be just as important as the protein.

Pairing Wine With Seafood & Steak

For seafood, look for wines with bright acidity and freshness. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Albariño, and Riesling are versatile choices, while sparkling wine pairs beautifully with shellfish.

For steak, wines with structure and body tend to work best. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Malbec are classic pairings, while a lighter preparation may call for something more elegant, such as Pinot Noir.

Old World vs. New World

Old World wines from regions such as France, Italy, and Spain often emphasize acidity, earthiness, and regional character. New World wines from places such as California, Oregon, and Australia often showcase ripe fruit and expressive varietal character.

Exploring both styles is one of the best ways to discover what you enjoy.

Choosing by Varietal

If you already have a favorite grape, start there. Chardonnay can range from crisp and mineral-driven to rich and buttery, while Pinot Noir is typically lighter and more delicate than Cabernet Sauvignon.

Not sure what you like? Describing your preferences, such as crisp and dry or bold and fruit-forward, can help your sommelier find the right match.

Glass or Bottle?

Ordering by the glass is ideal when everyone at the table wants something different or you’re interested in exploring multiple wines. A bottle can be a great choice when several guests want the same wine or you’re looking for a pairing to carry through multiple courses.

Let Your Sommelier Guide You

You don’t need to be a wine expert to order with confidence. A sommelier can consider your meal, preferences, and budget to recommend a wine you’ll enjoy.

At Birch & Vine, our sommelier-curated wine program features more than 600 bottles from renowned wine regions around the world, thoughtfully selected to complement our chef-driven menu. Discover something new, or let our team help you find the perfect pairing for dinner.