Summer is here! June is the start of grilling season, and a time to honour our dads, grandfathers, and father figures. Father’s Day falls in the heart of BBQ season, making it the perfect occasion to combine flame-grilled feasts with bold, backyard-worthy wines.
Instead of the predictable socks, tech gadgets, and books, select a nice wine and toast Dad! Whether he is flipping burgers, grilling veggies or enjoying the sunshine, the right bottle of wine can elevate the BBQ game and make his day extra special. So, let’s explore the best wines to pair with barbecue fare, especially for this Father’s Day.
Sauvignon Blanc: The Warm Day Refresher
White wines are a delightful companion to a BBQ spread, offering crisp contrasts to the smoky, grilled flavours. The vibrant acidity of Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness of the BBQ dishes, while its citrus character adds an refreshing twist, making it ideal for grilled chicken, salads, and seafood. New Zealand is famous for its distinct and lively style of premium Sauvignon Blanc. So, it is not surprising that Sauvignon Blanc accounts for almost 75% of the country’s total wine production and over 93% of its white wine exports. Award-winning Whitehaven Sauvignon Blanc 2023 is from the Marlborough region. It has forward aromas of grapefruit and gooseberry, textured citrus and herbal flavours and a lean, crisp finish. Serve Whitehaven Sauvignon Blanc 2023 with grilled fish, shrimp cocktail, sushi and goat cheeses.
Rosé: The Wildcard That Works
Ah, the power of pink! A dry rosé can also cut through the richness of grilled foods while adding a fresh, pretty summery twist. It’s especially delicious with BBQ chicken, grilled salmon and tuna, and veggie skewers. Dry rosés offer crispness and acidity that refresh the palate. Try Ontario’s vibrant and refreshing Malivoire Ladybug Rosé 2023 from the Niagara Peninsula. Malivoire Wine Company is a hallmark of sustainability in Canada for winemaking. Malivoire Ladybug Rosé 2023 is a best seller at LCBO year after year! It is a pink hue with fresh berry aromas and flavours and a lingering, dry, zesty finish. Pair Malivoire Ladybug Rosé 2023 with grilled seafood, turkey burgers, salads and charcuterie boards.
Malbec: The Grill Master’s Secret Weapon
This Argentine powerhouse is a natural partner for red meats—especially juicy steaks, burgers, and sausages. No wonder. Argentina is home to some of the most flavourful, grass-fed beef in the world. Malbec’s bold tannins and dark fruit flavours echo the char and savour of the grill. Malbec has just enough muscle to stand up to flame-kissed meats, marinades and dry rubs but stays smooth enough for casual sipping. Serve with grilled rib eye steaks, burgers and Chorizo or Italian sausages. An expressive example at LCBO is the highly rated Alamos Malbec 2023. This vibrant, balanced and approachable red is from the esteemed Catena family in Mendoza, Argentina. Alamos Malbec 2023 has forward aromas of ripe berries, vanilla and rich fruit flavours, soft tannins, and a lingering smooth finish. Serve with grilled meats, hearty stews, roasted vegetables and pasta with rich sauces.
Syrah/Shiraz: Smoky & Bold
Syrah/Shiraz is about deep dark fruit, black pepper, and smoky undertones. The spicy profile of Syrah also enhances grilled and charred flavours, making it a bold companion for richer BBQ dishes. Think grilled lamb, brisket, or game meats cooked over an open flame. Its smoky, meaty character mirrors the grill’s flavours, creating a seamless pairing. Available through VINTAGES is award-winning Glenelly Glass Collection Syrah 2021 from the renowned Stellenbosch region of South Africa. This full bodied red wine has a deep violet colour, spicy aromas, mild smoky flavours and rounded tannins. Serve Glenelly Glass Collection Syrah 2021 with grilled meats, duck breast, BBQ ribs and aged cheeses.
Champagne: The Classic Celebration Companion
Here’s a surprise twist: sparkling wine. Light, lively, and surprisingly versatile, bubbles cut through fat and spice, making sparkling wine incredibly adaptable for BBQ fare—plus, it adds a festive touch for Father’s Day! A dry sparkler can be just what Dad needs with grilled shrimp and oysters, BBQ chicken wings, Korean ribs and even spicy sausages. Try family-owned Cossy Cuvée Elégance Brut Rosé Champagne for something very special. Just released in VINTAGES, this sophisticated rosé Champagne is refined and expressive with soft, delicate bubbles, rich flavours and lingering finish. Cossy Estate is located in the picturesque region of Montagne de Reims in Champagne. Ideal as an aperitif, you can also serve Cossy Cuvée Elégance Brut Rosé Champagne with an extensive selection of foods. In my opinion, Champagne is such a versatile choice that it pairs well with most foods, from oysters to fried chicken to BBQ meats to sweet treats.
Bonus BBQ Tips to Pair Wines Like a Pro:
- Spicy food – Go for off-dry wines like Riesling or Gewürztraminer.
- Grilled veggies – Try a chilled Beaujolais or Pinot Noir.
- Serving a crowd – Magnum-format wines keep it simple—fun and festive.
- Grilled Corn – A creamy, lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the sweetness of grilled corn on the cob.
- Caprese Salad – The herbal notes in Vermentino pair beautifully with fresh basil and juicy tomatoes.
- Cheese and Charcuterie Boards – Complement with a versatile rosé or sparkling wine.
- Seafood Dishes – Opt for crisp whites like Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling.
- Smoked meats – Look for deep red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Petite Sirah.
- Grilled Steak or Lamb – Pair with bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz. .
- BBQ Ribs – Smoky ribs meet their match with a jammy, spicy Shiraz.
- Dessert – Try a late-harvest Riesling from Niagara, or a sparkling wine.
Father’s Day is about more than just gifts—it’s about spending quality time. Whether you’re clinking glasses over a flame-grilled feast or just sharing a sunset toast, the right wine adds warmth and celebration to any moment—while bringing people closer.
Cheers to smoky flavours, tasty wine, and great fathers everywhere.
Shari 🥂
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