Planning a leg of lamb dinner? Finding the right wine can seem tricky. Don't worry, it's easier than you think.
This guide will help you pick a wine that enhances your meal. We'll cover several options, from classic reds to unexpected whites.
Why Leg of Lamb is Special
Leg of lamb has a rich, savory flavor. It's often seasoned with herbs like rosemary and garlic. The meat itself can range from tender to slightly gamey. These characteristics make it a versatile dish for wine pairing.
Classic Choice: Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is often a great match for leg of lamb. Its bold tannins and dark fruit flavors stand up well to the richness of the meat. Look for a Napa Cab or a Cabernet from Washington State. The structure cuts through the fat, while the fruit complements the lamb's savory notes.
Rhône Wines: Syrah and Grenache
Consider wines from the Rhône Valley in France. Syrah, especially from the Northern Rhône (think Côte-Rôtie or Hermitage), offers peppery, smoky notes. These flavors add another layer of complexity to the lamb. Grenache-based wines from the Southern Rhône are also delicious. They're fruitier and spicier.
A Lighter Red: Pinot Noir
If you prefer a lighter-bodied red, Pinot Noir can work well. Choose a Pinot Noir with earthy notes and good acidity. A Burgundy from France or a Pinot Noir from Oregon are both good choices. This pairing shines with simpler preparations of lamb.
Think Pink: Rosé
Don't overlook rosé. A dry, full-bodied rosé can be a surprising and delightful pairing. Look for rosés from the Tavel region of France or from Spain. Their bright acidity and red fruit flavors balance the richness of the lamb. This is a great choice for a springtime lamb roast.
White Wine? Yes, Really
While red wine is the traditional choice, white wine can be excellent. An off-dry Riesling from Alsace or Germany can work wonders. The slight sweetness balances the savory flavors of the lamb. The acidity cuts through the fat. This works especially well with lamb dishes that incorporate fruit or sweet glazes.
Lamb Chops vs. Roast Leg
The preparation of the lamb impacts the best wine pairing. Grilled lamb chops are often more intensely flavored. A bolder red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah is perfect. A roast leg of lamb, especially one with rosemary and garlic, pairs beautifully with a Rhône blend.
Lamb Stew Needs Something Different
Lamb stew often features root vegetables and herbs. A medium-bodied red with earthy notes is a great choice. Consider a Beaujolais or a Côtes du Rhône. These wines won't overpower the stew's delicate flavors.
Don't Forget the Sauce
The sauce accompanying your lamb significantly influences the wine pairing. Mint sauce is a classic accompaniment. Its herbaceousness pairs well with a lighter-bodied red like Pinot Noir. A red wine reduction sauce calls for a bolder wine like Cabernet Sauvignon.
Considering the Herbs
Rosemary is a common herb used with leg of lamb. It pairs well with wines that have herbal notes, such as Cabernet Franc. Garlic complements wines with savory characteristics, like Syrah.
When in Doubt, Go for Balance
Ultimately, the best wine pairing comes down to personal preference. Aim for a balance between the wine's characteristics and the lamb's flavors. Consider the richness of the dish, the intensity of the seasonings, and your own taste preferences.
Vintage Matters Too
The vintage (year) of the wine can also affect the pairing. A warmer vintage will often produce wines with riper fruit and softer tannins. A cooler vintage might result in wines with higher acidity and more savory notes. Adjust your pairing accordingly.
My Go-To Pairing
One combo I come back to again and again is roast leg of lamb with a Gigondas from the Southern Rhône. The blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre is just perfect. It has the fruit, spice, and structure to handle the lamb. Plus, it's not too heavy.
Budget-Friendly Options
You don't need to spend a fortune to find a great wine pairing. Many affordable wines work well with leg of lamb. Look for Côtes du Rhône, Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon, or Spanish Rioja. These wines offer good value and delicious flavors.
Experiment and Enjoy
Don't be afraid to experiment. Wine pairing is a journey of discovery. Try different wines with your leg of lamb and see what you enjoy most. The most important thing is to have fun and savor the experience.
Best places to buy:
- Wine Society – Wide selection of reds, helpful descriptions (add link when ready).
- Naked Wines – Independent winemakers, good value (add link when ready).
- Virgin Wines – Curated selections, mixed cases (add link when ready).
- Amazon – Convenient, vast inventory (add link when ready).
