What Wine With Lamb

Are you hosting a dinner party and planning to serve lamb, but struggling to find the perfect wine pairing? Well, fret not, because we have got you covered. Welcome to Black Wine Club, where we help cool, artsy wine enthusiasts like you explore the vibrant world of wine. In this article, we will be diving into the perfect wine pairings for lamb and providing a mouthwatering example that will leave your guests in awe.

The Basics of Pairing Wine & Lamb

When pairing wine with lamb, there are a few key factors to consider: the cut of meat you're working with, the method of cooking, and the accompanying flavors and sauces.

Focusing on the Cut

- Rack of lamb: This elegant cut is tender and mild in flavor. It pairs well with fruit-forward, medium-bodied red wines like a Pinot Noir or Merlot. These wines will complement the meat without overwhelming its delicate taste.

- Leg of lamb: A more flavor-intense cut, leg of lamb, deserves a bolder wine partner. Opt for a robust red like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec.

- Lamb shank: Lamb shank, with a rich, earthy taste, is a match made in heaven for earthy, full-bodied reds like a Syrah or a Zinfandel.

Considering the Cooking Method

- Grilled lamb: High-heat cooking like grilling can bring out charred flavors in the meat. To complement this, choose wines with smoky notes, such as Syrah or Cabernet Franc.

- Braised lamb: Slow-cooked dishes like braised lamb develop deep, complex flavors. Look for a red with an equally rich and complex profile, like a Malbec or a Chianti.

- Roasted lamb: Aromatic herbs are often used in roasted lamb recipes, so select a wine that can hold up to these intense flavors. A Cabernet Sauvignon or a Rioja would be a great choice.

Accounting for Flavors & Sauces

• Mint sauce or herbs: Pair with a wine that has fresh, herbal characteristics, like a Carmenère or a Sauvignon Blanc.
• Spices (e.g., Indian or Middle Eastern dishes): Opt for a red that can handle the intensity of the spices without overpowering the dish, like a Grenache or a Tempranillo.
• Rosemary or thyme: Look for a wine with herbal and savory notes, such as a Cabernet Franc or a Rhône blend.
• Red wine and/or mushroom sauces: Pair with a bold, earthy red like a Nebbiolo or a Pinot Noir.

What Wine With Lamb Example:

Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb with Pinot Noir

For a chic dinner party, try serving a succulent herb-crusted rack of lamb with a delightful Pinot Noir. The lamb's tender and mild flavor profile is beautifully complemented by the fruit-forward, medium-bodied qualities of the wine.

Ingredients:

• 2 racks of lamb
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic, rosemary, thyme, and olive oil.
3. Cover the racks of lamb with the herb mixture and season generously with salt and pepper.
4. Sear the lamb in a hot, oven-safe skillet for 2 minutes on each side, until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
6. Let the lamb rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serve with a delicious glass of Pinot Noir.

It's time to take your lamb dishes to the next level with these wine pairings. With the right wine partner, your dish is sure to impress even the most discerning palate. Now, go forth, experiment and share your experience with fellow cool artsy people like you. If you enjoyed this guide, don't forget to share it with your friends and explore other fantastic wine tips and tricks on Black Wine Club.