Pairing wine with Picanha, a delicious Brazilian cut of beef, is a culinary adventure that can take your dining experience to new heights. Picanha, known for its succulent tenderness and rich flavor, is a popular choice for meat lovers seeking a unique option. To complement the bold and savory taste of this cut of meat, selecting the right wine can seem overwhelming. Whether you prefer it grilled to perfection with just a touch of salt or infused with various marinades and spices, the choice of wine can enhance the flavors and create a balance with the meat’s richness.
Wine Characteristics To Pair With Picanha
| Characteristic | Detail |
| Sweetness | Dry |
| Acidity | Medium to High |
| Tannins | High |
| Body | Full Bodied |
| Tasting Notes | Dark fruits, earthy notes, and hints of spice |
Best Red Wine To Drink With Picanha
Picanha is a very flavorful and bold Brazilian cut of beef. So choosing a red wine makes perfect sense, so the wine isn’t overpowered by the dish. The meat also tends to be pretty fatty, so choose a wine with high acidity to help cut through the fat. One of the best choices to enjoy with Picanha is a bold and full-bodied red wine, with high tannins, high acidity and full of flavor.
Malbec
When it comes to pairing red wine with Picanha, a top choice is Malbec. This Argentine red wine variety is renowned for its bold and robust character, which complements the rich flavors of Picanha exceptionally well. The deep fruitiness and soft tannins of Malbec work harmoniously with the succulent, fatty textures of the meat, creating a marriage of flavors that is both satisfying and indulgent.
Cabernet Sauvignon
The rich and robust nature of Cabernet Sauvignon complements the meat’s succulence and enhances its savory flavors. The wine’s notes of dark fruits, cassis, and hints of oak can provide an excellent balance to the fattiness of Picanha and the charred crust created during grilling. The strong tannins in Cabernet Sauvignon cut through the richness of the meat, creating a harmonious contrast.
Tannat
This lesser known red wine is high in tannins and flavor. It can be quite dry, but the richness of the steak and any seasonings on the dish won’t overpower this wine. If you are feeling adventurous, this is a fantastic wine to try with Picanha.
Syrah/Shiraz
Syrah (known as Shiraz in Australia) brings bold flavors, including blackberry, black pepper, and smoky notes, which can enhance the meat’s smokiness and add depth to the experience.
Zinfandel
A much lighter red wine than the other reds we’ve listed. However, the jammy fruitiness and hints of spice make it a compelling match for Picanha, particularly if you enjoy your meat with a touch of spice or barbecue flavors.
Best White Wine To Drink With Picanha
White wines are not typically the first choice for pairing with Picanha, as this Brazilian cut of beef is known for its strong flavors that often work best with red wines. However, if you prefer white wine or are interested in exploring alternative pairings, here’s a list of some white wines that could work.
Chardonnay
A full-bodied, oaked Chardonnay can offer a buttery richness and flavors of tropical fruits, providing a contrast to the meat’s richness and adding complexity to the pairing. And it won’t get as overpowered as some other white wine options.
Viognier
Viognier’s aromatic and fruity profile, with notes of apricot and peach, can offer a pleasant contrast to the savory and grilled aspects of Picanha.
White Bordeaux
A white Bordeaux blend, often featuring Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, can provide a mix of citrusy acidity and subtle oak influence, which can complement the meat’s flavors.
Best Wine To Drink With Picanha
The best wine for Picanha depends on your personal preferences and the specific seasonings and preparation of the meat. However, these red wine options offer a several choices that will make for a wonderful meal with this delicious Brazilian cut of beef.
- Malbec
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Tannat
- Syrah/Shiraz
- Zinfandel
- Chardonnay
