Summer barbecues are one of my favorite occasions to enjoy a cold and refreshing glass of rosé. Whether you’re popping corks on your favorite bottle or even testing out some really decent canned rosés, with their light, crisp, and fruity flavors, rosé wines are the ideal complement to the smoky and savory flavors of grilled meats and vegetables.
But with so many different styles of rosé available, it can be hard to know which one to pair with your favorite BBQ meals, apps, and even some summertime-friendly desserts.
Since I bought my house and tricked out my backyard, I love having friends over for some sips and some bites. So below, let’s explore some of the best rosé wine pairings for summer foods (bbq and non-bbq). I’ll give you a heads up why each makes a great food pairing.
Table of Contents
THE MAIN COURSE
Pair Grilled Shrimp With a Fruit Rosé
For a light and refreshing pairing that’s perfect for a hot summer day (or even night), consider pairing grilled shrimp skewers with a fruity rosé. Fruity rosé wines, like those made from the Grenache grape, are known for their bright berry flavors and refreshing acidity. These flavors complement the delicate sweetness of grilled shrimp, while the acidity helps to cut through the richness of the dish.
Pair Grilled Chicken With a Dry Rosé
If you’re grilling up some chicken at your summer barbecue, consider pairing it with a dry rosé. Dry rosé wines, like those made from the Pinot Noir grape, have a crisp acidity and subtle fruit flavors that pair well with the smoky flavor of grilled chicken. The acidity of the wine also helps to cut through the fat of the chicken, making for a refreshing and balanced pairing.
Pair Grilled Steak With a Bold Rosé
For those who prefer a bolder and more full-bodied wine, consider pairing grilled steak with a bold rosé. Bold rosé wines, like those made from the Syrah grape, have deeper fruit flavors and a fuller body than other types of rosé. These flavors pair well with the bold and savory flavor of grilled steak, while the tannins in the wine help to cut through the fat of the meat.
Pair Grilled Vegetables with a Dry Rosé
Grilling up some veggies as a side or even an app? Consider pairing them with a dry rosé. The subtle fruit flavors and crisp acidity of a dry rosé pair well with the smoky and slightly sweet flavors of grilled vegetables. Not to mention, the acidity of the wine helps to cut through the richness of the vegetables, making for a refreshing and well-balanced pairing.
Pair Burgers with Rosé Sangria
For a fun and refreshing twist on the classic burger and beer pairing, consider pairing your burgers with a rosé sangria. Rosé sangria both refreshing and a fruity cocktail made that’s made with your favorite rosé wine, fresh fruit, and a splash of brandy (if you want to kick it up a notch). The sweetness of the sangria pairs well with the savory flavor of the burger, while the acidity of the rosé helps to cut through the richness of the meat.
THE APPETIZERS
Caprese Skewers with Your Favorite Rosé
For a light and refreshing appetizer, consider pairing Caprese skewers with a crisp and acidic rosé. The fresh flavors of the tomato and mozzarella pair well with the subtle fruit flavors of the rosé, while the acidity of the wine helps to cut through the richness of the cheese.
Goat Cheese Crostini with Dry Rosé
Goat cheese crostini is a classic appetizer that pairs well with a dry rosé. The tangy and creamy flavors of the goat cheese are balanced by the crisp acidity of the wine, while the subtle fruit flavors of the rosé complement the toasted bread.
Check Out My Recipe Below:
My super easy recipe is made with creamy goat cheese, crispy baguette slices, and a drizzle of honey, all topped with fresh thyme. Here’s everything you’ll need to make it.
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 1/2 cup goat cheese
- 2 tbsp honey
- Fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper
- Extra virgin olive oil
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Place baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Spread goat cheese onto each baguette slice.
Drizzle honey over the cheese and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves.
Shrimp Cocktail with Fruity Rosé
If you’re serving shrimp cocktail as an appetizer, consider pairing it with a fruity rosé. The bright berry flavors of the wine complement the sweetness of the shrimp, while the acidity helps to cut through the richness of the cocktail sauce.
Charcuterie Board with a Bold Rosé
A charcuterie board is a great appetizer option for a crowd, and pairs well with a bold and full-bodied rosé. The deep fruit flavors and tannins of the wine pair well with the savory and salty flavors of the meats, while the acidity helps to cut through the richness of the cheese.
Bruschetta with Rosé Sangria
For a refreshing and fun twist on the classic bruschetta appetizer, consider pairing it with a refreshing and fruity rosé sangria. The sweetness of the sangria complements the tangy flavor of the tomato, while the acidity of the rosé helps to balance the dish.
THE DESSERTS
Fresh Berries and Cream
Fresh berries and cream are a simple yet elegant dessert that pairs perfectly with a refreshing and fruity rosé. This dessert is easy to prepare and showcases the natural sweetness and tartness of seasonal berries. When paired with rosé, the wine’s bright acidity complements the sweetness of the berries, while the fruitiness of the wine complements the creamy texture of the whipped cream.
Strawberry Shortcake
The combination of fresh, juicy strawberries and light, airy shortcake pairs perfectly with a crisp and refreshing rosé. The acidity of the wine helps to balance the sweetness of the dessert, while the fruitiness of the wine complements the flavor of the berries.
Raspberry White Chocolate Cheesecake
A creamy, decadent cheesecake with a hint of tart raspberries and sweet white chocolate pairs beautifully with a light and refreshing rosé. The wine’s crisp acidity balances the richness of the cheesecake, while the fruitiness of the wine enhances the flavors of the raspberries.
