Pairing Wine With Lamb

Lamb chops, lamb shanks, roasted lamb, rack of lamb…no matter your favorite lamb dish, there is a wine to complement it and elevate your dining experience. Lamb is tender, rich in flavor, and high in fat, which can contribute to the gamey flavor in some lamb cuts. Because of these factors, medium to full-bodied reds are going to be your best match, as they will have the depth and complexity to hold their own against the lamb. This does not mean whites are completely off the table. As with most foods, you will want to consider the cut, preparation, and ingredients when choosing a wine with your meal.

Best Red Wine With Lamb

Red tends to pair very well with lamb. A medium to full-bodied red has what it takes to stand up to the rich, complex flavor of lamb.

• • Malbec: full-bodied, but low acidity with flavors of plum, blackberry, and cocoa.

• • Pinot Noir: always a popular choice; light on body, high on aromatics.

• • Cabernet Sauvignon: full-bodied and full of tannins.

• • Syrah: dark, full-bodied red with berry notes.

Best White Wine With Lamb

As we stated above, you do not have to rule out white wine with lamb entirely. Just be sure to select a white that is bold and complex; the lamb will overshadow a light wine.

• • Chardonnay; dry and buttery with moderate tannins and acidity.

• • Gewürztraminer: a rich bouquet of exotic fruits, spices, and rose tones.

• • Rosé: bright acidity with strong berry flavor.

• • Viognier: Full-bodied and aromatic with stone fruit flavor.

Pairing Wine With Various Lamb Dishes

Pairing Wine With Roast Lamb

One thing to consider with this preparation is how it is cooked. If served medium rare, a Pinot Noir will be a great match. Cooked longer—medium-well to well-done—something bolder, like a Bordeaux or Cabernet Sauvignon will do nicely.

Pairing Wine With Rack of Lamb

The cooking temperature is going to come into play here, too. Rare to medium-rare, a Beaujolais or other light red will pair well. You could also choose a full-bodied white, like Viognier. Try a Syrah for a temperature of medium or higher.

Pairing Wine With Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb

A Malbec or Cabernet will complement this earthy, hearty dish perfectly.

Pairing Wine With Lamb Chops

Lamb chops are earthy and tender making them a great cut for a softer red like Pinot Noir, but you could go with a Merlot, as well.

Pairing Wine With Lamb Shank

Lamb Shank is rich, herby, and flavorful. A Syrah or Tempranillo will provide the perfect flavor balance.

Pairing Wine With Leg of Lamb

A medium to full-bodied red is an excellent choice for this classic lamb dish. Bordeaux is perfect but if you want something less daring, Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot will also do nicely.

Pairing Wine With Lamb Curry

The spice level is a key factor here. For a spicy curry, Riesling or Pinot Gris will cool the palate. If your curry is on the mild side, try Syrah or Shiraz.

Pairing Wine With Lamb Stew

A comforting, savory bowl of lamb stew will need a juicy red to match. Try a Sangiovese, Grenache or Pinot Noir.

Pairing Wine With Lamb Shoulder

Lamb Shoulder is rich and fatty, making your wine selection essential. A Chianti or Rioja will complement this dish well. You could also go with a Bordeaux if you are feeling bold.

Pairing Wine With Lamb Koftas

Juicy, fruit-forward reds like Grenache or Pinot Noir go great with lamb Koftas. You could also choose a Viognier if you are in the mood for a white.

Pairing Wine With Lamb Burgers

An oaked red will bring out the smoky flavors from the grill. We recommend a Shiraz or Primitivo to match your lamb burgers.

Pairing Wine With Lamb Tagine

This Moroccan stew will pair well with a Malbec or Grenache if you prefer reds. Try a Viognier if white wine is more your style.