Meatloaf Wine Pairing: The 10 Best Wines for Meatloaf

When it comes to enjoying a delicious plate of meatloaf, selecting the right wine can make all the difference in enhancing the meal’s flavors.

This is where meatloaf wine pairing comes into play.

While meatloaf may not be the first dish that comes to mind when thinking about wine pairing, it’s important to note that a robust and powerful red wine can complement the hearty flavors of the meat and mashed potatoes.

In this article, we will explore the 10 best wines for meatloaf wine pairing to help you select the perfect bottle to accompany your next meatloaf meal.

Whether you’re a red wine lover or prefer a white wine, we’ve got you covered with a variety of options to choose from.

So, what wine goes with meatloaf?

The best wines to pair with meatloaf are cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and shiraz. These reds have enough body and tannins to stand up to the richness of the dish. For a slightly lighter option, try pinot noir or gamay.

Read Also: 10 Best Meatloaf Seasoning Recipes For Any Meatloaf Recipe

Best Red Wines for Meatloaf Pairing

When it comes to meatloaf wine pairing, red wines are often the best choice due to their robust flavor profiles. Here are three of the best red wines to pair with meatloaf:

Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon is a popular choice for meatloaf wine pairing due to its bold flavors of dark fruit, such as blackberry and blackcurrant. The tannins in Cabernet Sauvignon also help to cut through the richness of the meatloaf, making it a perfect match.

Some examples of Cabernet Sauvignon wines to pair with meatloaf include:

• Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon
• Stags’ Leap Winery Cabernet Sauvignon
• Beringer Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon

Merlot

Merlot is another excellent red wine choice for meatloaf pairing, as its flavors of red fruit and chocolate complement the savory notes of the meatloaf. Merlot tends to be less tannic than Cabernet Sauvignon, which makes it a great option for those who prefer a smoother wine.

Here are some Merlot wines to pair with meatloaf:

• Chateau Ste. Michelle Merlot
• Decoy Merlot
• Duckhorn Merlot

Shiraz

Shiraz, also known as Syrah, is a bold red wine with spicy notes of black pepper and licorice that can complement the flavors of the meatloaf. The wine’s high alcohol content also helps to enhance the dish’s richness.

Here are some Shiraz wines to consider for meatloaf pairing:

• Mollydooker The Boxer Shiraz
• Two Hands Angels’ Share Shiraz
• Penfolds Bin 28 Kalimna Shiraz

By choosing one of these bold red wines for your next meatloaf dinner, you can elevate the flavors of the dish and create a memorable dining experience.

Other Red Wines to Consider

While Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Shiraz are the best red wines for meatloaf pairing, there are other red wine options that can also complement the dish. Here are three other red wines to consider for meatloaf pairing:

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is a lighter red wine that can still pair well with meatloaf due to its flavors of red fruit, earthiness, and light tannins. It’s a good option for those who prefer a more delicate wine.

Some Pinot Noir wines to pair with meatloaf include:

• Meiomi Pinot Noir
• La Crema Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
• Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir

Zinfandel

Zinfandel is a full-bodied red wine with flavors of blackberry, black cherry, and spice that can complement the richness of meatloaf. It’s also a great option for those who prefer a sweeter wine.

Some Zinfandel wines to pair with meatloaf include:

• Ridge Vineyards Three Valleys Zinfandel
• Seghesio Sonoma Zinfandel
• The Federalist Zinfandel

Malbec

Malbec is a medium to full-bodied red wine with flavors of blackberry, plum, and spice that can pair well with meatloaf. It’s also a good option for those who prefer a more affordable wine.

Some Malbec wines to pair with meatloaf include:

• Achaval Ferrer Malbec
• Catena Malbec
• Alamos Malbec

White Wines for Meatloaf Pairing

While red wines are often the go-to choice for meatloaf pairing, some white wines can also complement the dish. Here are two white wine options to consider for meatloaf pairing:

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is a full-bodied white wine with flavors of butter and vanilla that can complement the creaminess of mashed potatoes served with meatloaf. Chardonnay can also pair well with meatloaf that has a sweet glaze or sauce.

Some Chardonnay wines to pair with meatloaf include:

• Sonoma-Cutrer Russian River Ranches Chardonnay
• Chateau Montelena Chardonnay
• Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay

Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp and refreshing white wine with flavors of citrus and herbs that can cut through the richness of the meatloaf. It’s also a good option for those who prefer a lighter wine.

Some Sauvignon Blanc wines to pair with meatloaf include:

• Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc
• Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc
• Cakebread Cellars Sauvignon Blanc

Other Tips for Meatloaf and Wine Pairing

Pairing the right wine with meatloaf can enhance the flavors of the dish and create a memorable dining experience. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when selecting a wine for meatloaf pairing:

Other food accompaniments to consider

When selecting a wine for meatloaf pairing, consider the other food accompaniments such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables. The wine should complement the overall flavors of the meal and not just the meatloaf.

Temperature considerations

The temperature of the wine can also impact the pairing. Red wines should be served at room temperature, while white wines should be served chilled. Consider the temperature of the food as well when selecting the wine to ensure that both are enjoyed at their best.

Serving suggestions

When serving meatloaf with wine, consider presenting the wine in a decanter or carafe to allow it to breathe and open up its flavors. It’s also a good idea to taste the wine before serving to ensure that it’s at its best.

Conclusion

Pairing the right wine with meatloaf can take your dining experience to the next level.

By considering the various red and white wine options, you can find a wine that complements the hearty flavors of the meatloaf and other side dishes.

Keep in mind the different characteristics of each wine, such as their tannins, fruit flavors, and spice notes, when selecting a wine for your meatloaf pairing.

Here are the best wines for meatloaf:

1. Cabernet Sauvignon
2. Merlot
3. Shiraz
4. Pinot Noir
5. Zinfandel
6. Malbec
7. Chardonnay
8. Sauvignon Blanc

Remember that the best wine for meatloaf pairing ultimately depends on your personal taste preferences, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different wines to find the perfect match.

With the right wine pairing, your next meatloaf dinner can be a truly memorable experience.