Wine Pairings for Grilled Foods

Pairing: Spanish Albariño

Pair rich, grilled sardines with a minerally, zesty Albariño from northern Spain, such as the 2012 Granbazán Etiqueta Verde or the 2013 Lícia.

Pairing: Rhône red

A robust Rhône red famously pairs well with lamb; its spice is terrific with the gaminess of the meat. Pour a Côtes du Rhône, like the 2012 Domaine d'Andezon or the 2011 Domaine Les Aphillanthes.

Pairing: Chenin Blanc

Chenin Blanc from South Africa has mouthwatering juiciness, perfect with these super-flavorful chicken thighs. Try the 2013 Ken Forrester Petit Chenin or the 2012 Simonsig.

Pairing: Rioja Reserva

Reservas from Spain's Rioja are aged in oak for at least three years, resulting in deeply concentrated wines that are terrific with steak. The 2007 Conde de Valdemar Reserva and the 2009 Muga Reserva are good, affordable choices.

Pairing: Juicy rosé

Warm-climate rosés tend to have juicy, bold fruit that is superb with the sweetness of grilled shrimp. Try the 2013 Moulin de Gassac Guilhem from the south of France, or the 2013 Montes Cheru from Chile.

Pairing: Light Italian red

Lighter, fruity reds are great with vegetarian dishes. Try one from Italy, like the 2010 Masi Campofiorin or the 2012 Roagna Dolcetto.

Pairing: Californian Petite Sirah

Peppery, blackberry-rich Petite Sirah from California was practically made for sticky barbecue. Look for the 2012 Bogle or the 2011 Green Truck.

Pairing: Malbec

Malbec is understandably sublime with steak. Try this massive cut with the 2012 Recuerdo or the 2012 Casa de Uco.

Pairing: Californian Sauvignon Blanc

Citrusy Sauvignon Blanc matches the tanginess of the marinade here. Try one from California, like the 2012 Honig or the 2013 Simi.

Pairing: Sauvignon Blanc

Try a zippy, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc like the 2012 Philippe Raimbault Sancerre Apud Sariacum.