Make a delicious classic better by finding the best wine for surf and turf. Check out our guide for the best wine to pair with your next special occasion meal!
If there’s one dinner that screams special occasion, it’s surf and turf. Whether you’re celebrating a promotion, an anniversary, or just the end of a long week, this classic combo is the perfect way to treat yourself and your loved ones.
With so many fantastic wines out there, finding the best wine for surf and turf can be a daunting task.
We’ve researched for you and compiled this list of the best wine for surf and turf! The right kind of wine can elevate an already delicious dish to new heights, so why not take advantage?
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just finishing up a long day, there’s nothing like enjoying a succulent steak and adding some seafood.
From light whites like Sauvignon Blancs to robust reds like Cabernets, we’ll provide some suggestions that will have your mouth watering in anticipation as soon as you crack open a bottle.
What is Surf and Turf?
Surf and turf is a popular dish that combines seafood and meat. The name “surf and turf” comes from the fact that the seafood represents the “surf” part of the dish, while the red meat represents the “turf” part.
The seafood can be anything from lobster to crabmeat, while the meat can be steak, pork, or lamb. It’s a popular dish in both restaurants and homes and can be served either as an appetizer or a main course. Living on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, I know a little something about seafood!
The Best Wine For Surf and Turf
White Wines
White wines are best paired with lighter fish dishes such as salmon or cod.
When it comes to white wines, there are two main options for pairing with surf and turf: chardonnay and sauvignon blanc.
Chardonnay is a full-bodied white wine that pairs well with beef and seafood dishes. It has a creamy texture stands up well to the richness of steak or lobster tail, while its high acidity helps balance out heartier dishes like bacon-wrapped scallops.
On the other hand, sauvignon blanc is a bright, zesty white wine that pairs best with lighter seafood dishes like grilled salmon or shrimp scampi. Its citrusy notes help cut through more decadent sauces while highlighting subtle flavors like garlic or herbs. Its light body makes it easy to sip throughout your meal without feeling weighed down by alcohol.
Red Wines
Steak is traditionally paired with red wine because its bold flavor stands up well against the richness of the beef, making it the best wine for surf and turf, according to many. If you’re looking for something red to pair with your surf and turf plate, then look no further than cabernet sauvignon or merlot.
Cabernet Sauvignon is a robust red wine with bold tannins that can stand up to fatty cuts of steak like ribeye or filet mignon. Its earthy flavor also complements seafood dishes like crab cakes or bouillabaisse perfectly.
Merlot is also an excellent choice for pairing with surf and turf plates. This medium-bodied red wine has soft tannins that won’t overpower delicate fish dishes like seared tuna steaks or cooked shrimp skewers. At the same time, its round fruitiness balances out heartier meats like top sirloin steak or pork tenderloin medallions.
Other options include Pinot Noir, Malbec, and Syrah blends which offer more complexity in their flavor profiles. No matter which red you choose, be sure to decant it before serving to bring out its full flavor potential!
Rosé Wines
Rosé wines are often overlooked as the best wine for surf and turf, but they can actually be incredibly versatile when matching with different dishes.
For a surf and turf dinner, look for something light-bodied like Provençal rosé, which has enough acidity to stand up against both seafood and steak without overshadowing either one. Another great option is dry rosé sparkling wine which adds an extra layer of effervescence to your meal.
When choosing the best wine for surf and turf, make sure you take your own tastes in mind. Only then will you be sure to have the “best” wine for you!
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I am a home cook that does things my way. In my kitchen, I make breakfast, pack lunches, prepare snacks, and cook dinner. During the week, we eat real food that is homemade, organic, and local. On the weekends we do explore more of our local restaurants. I bake my own bread, juice fresh oranges every other day, and make my own kombucha and other weekly favorites.
