Top Wines for a Backyard BBQ

There’s something magical about firing up the grill, gathering friends and family, and enjoying a laid-back afternoon or evening outdoors.

While beer is often the go-to drink at a barbecue, wine can be a surprisingly versatile and delicious companion to smoky, charred fare. The right wine can elevate grilled meats, veggies, and sides, bringing out flavors you might otherwise miss.

But BBQs are casual affairs, so the best wines for them are approachable, affordable, and able to stand up to bold flavors. Whether you’re serving ribs, burgers, grilled chicken, or veggie skewers, here’s a guide to top wines that will keep your next backyard BBQ festive and flavorful.

Zinfandel: The Classic BBQ Red

Zinfandel is practically made for barbecue. With its juicy berry flavors, peppery notes, and medium to full body, Zin pairs beautifully with smoky, spicy, and sweet BBQ dishes. Think ribs slathered in sauce, grilled sausages, or even spicy chicken wings. Its rich fruit can balance heat, and its boldness holds up to char.

Look for:

• California Zinfandels from Lodi or Sonoma

• Affordable picks like Cline Cellars or Ravenswood

Pro tip: Serve slightly chilled (about 60°F) for a refreshing summer twist.

Malbec: A Crowd-Pleaser with Grilled Meats

Argentina’s flagship grape, Malbec, is another top pick for barbecues. It offers deep plum and blackberry flavors with smooth tannins and a touch of smokiness—ideal for pairing with grilled steaks, lamb, or burgers. Its velvety texture and generous fruit make it approachable, even for non-wine lovers.

Look for:

• Argentine producers like Catena, Alamos, or Trapiche

Malbec’s versatility means it also works with pork chops and grilled mushrooms, making it a BBQ MVP.

Rosé: Crisp, Cool, and Food-Friendly

No backyard BBQ is complete without a chilled bottle of rosé. Dry rosé’s refreshing acidity and fruit-forward profile make it a flexible match for everything from grilled shrimp to veggie skewers to chicken thighs. It’s also the ultimate sipper for hot days.

Look for:

• Provençal rosés like Whispering Angel or Château Miraval

• American rosés from Bonterra or Charles & Charles

Aim for a dry style rather than sweet to keep it food-friendly.

Riesling: Sweet Meets Heat

Grilled foods often come with spice, and that’s where Riesling shines. Its zesty acidity and slight sweetness (especially in off-dry styles) are perfect for counterbalancing spicy BBQ sauces or Asian-inspired marinades. Riesling also plays well with grilled seafood and lighter fare.

Look for:

• German Kabinett or Spätlese Rieslings (e.g., Dr. Loosen)

• Domestic versions from Washington State or Finger Lakes

Bonus: Riesling’s lower alcohol content makes it a great choice for daytime BBQs.

Chardonnay: Rich and Grilled to Perfection

For grilled chicken, salmon, or corn on the cob, Chardonnay—especially one with a touch of oak—adds creamy, buttery richness that complements these dishes. Grilled lobster or other seafood also gets a boost from Chardonnay’s citrus and vanilla notes.

Look for:

• California classics like Kendall-Jackson or Sonoma-Cutrer

• Burgundy-style Chardonnays for a more restrained, mineral-driven option

Chill well but avoid over-chilling, as too much cold can mute Chardonnay’s complex flavors.

Sparkling Wine: Bubbles Make Everything Better

Bubbly isn’t just for celebrations—it’s also fantastic with salty, crispy grilled foods. The effervescence cuts through rich flavors and refreshes the palate. Pair sparkling wine with grilled sausages, fried sides (hello, onion rings), or a platter of appetizers.

Look for:

• Prosecco for an affordable, light option

• Cava or Crémant for more complexity at a great price

You can even create BBQ-friendly spritzers by adding sparkling wine to fresh lemonade or fruit juice.

Grenache/Garnacha: Fruity and Flexible

Grenache (Garnacha in Spain) is a bright, juicy red that’s perfect for grilled meats, especially pork and chicken. Its red berry flavors and subtle spice make it easy-drinking and food-friendly, fitting well into casual backyard gatherings.

Look for:

• Spanish Garnacha from Campo Viejo or Borsao

• Southern Rhône blends from Côtes du Rhône

Grenache’s lighter tannins also mean it can be slightly chilled for summer sipping.

Pinot Noir: For Lighter Grill Fare

Pinot Noir might not be the first wine that comes to mind for BBQs, but its bright red fruit, subtle earthiness, and silky texture make it great with grilled salmon, chicken, or even portobello mushrooms. It’s a lighter-bodied red that bridges the gap between white and bold red wine lovers.

Look for:

• Oregon Pinot Noirs (e.g., A to Z Wineworks, Elk Cove)

• California Pinot from La Crema or Meiomi

Serve slightly chilled to keep things fresh.

Conclusion: Mix and Match for Maximum Fun

The best BBQ wines are versatile, refreshing, and able to stand up to bold, smoky flavors. Whether you’re grilling burgers and ribs or going plant-based with veggie skewers and salads, there’s a wine that can make each bite sing. Stock a mix of reds, whites, rosés, and bubbles to keep everyone happy—and don’t be afraid to experiment with new pairings.

At the end of the day, BBQs are all about fun and relaxation, so choose wines that fit the mood and enjoy the great outdoors, one sip at a time.