The Best Drinks For Steak Dinners

While there is nothing wrong with sticking to the tried-and-tested combination of a hearty and robust red wine with a rich steak dinner, it can become somewhat repetitive, highlighting the same flavor notes over and over from the same drink profile. Instead, look past this classic combo and explore a range of alternative drinks that are ideal companions for steak and can suit any preference.

From iconic gin martinis and dark ales to a classic Manhattan cocktail with a twist, made using Liquorland Japanese whisky, unlock new flavors and a revamped dining experience by highlighting and championing ingredients you haven’t considered before.

Here are some of the best drinks that go well with steak dinners…

#1. Whiskey

The deep, robust caramel notes of this popular brown spirit are complex enough to stand up to the big, beefy flavors of red meat without completely overpowering it. The whiskey you ultimately choose is entirely up to you, with bourbon and rye proving to be popular choices.

On the other hand, Scotch and Irish whisky go particularly well with grilled steak, as their smoky, woody notes brilliantly mimic the flavors of the grill. You can enjoy your beverage neat, on the rocks, or in a simple cocktail like an Old Fashioned.

#2. Vesper

If you can’t decide between gin and vodka, get the best of both worlds by mixing up the classic Vesper cocktail. Made famous by a particular British spy, the recipe uses both gin and vodka, giving you a clean cocktail with delightful notes of citrus and pine. Pick your preferred base spirit, but pay attention to the flavor notes of your gin selection and how they work with the ingredients in your meal.

While martinis use vermouth, the Vesper uses Lillet Blanc, further boosting the drink’s citrus flavor. This fresh flavor pairs beautifully with a Béarnaise, mustard, or mushroom sauce, waking up the senses with every bite.

#3. Gin Martini

When it comes to cocktails, nothing is more iconic than a martini. While martinis are often made using vodka, many lovers of the classic drink consider the traditional pairing of gin, vermouth, and bitters to be the best choice of flavors, thanks to its crisp taste and unmatched air of sophistication.

Gin is made using juniper berries and a variety of botanicals that differ from brand to brand. One of the most popular brands on the market is London Dry, which carries strong notes of juniper and citrus. These herbal notes nicely complement the rich meatiness of steak while championing the herbs that are typically found in different compound butters and sauces commonly served with red meat.

#4. White Wine

White wine is traditionally paired with lighter, white meats like fish and chicken. But with the proper grape selection, it can be a fantastic pairing for your next steak dinner. The key is to select a bottle that is full-bodied enough to match the deep profiles of the meat.

Light, extra-crisp Sauvignon Blanc will likely fall short in bringing out the robust and delicious flavors of red meat, while a lightly oaked Chardonnay, which has a much deep taste but still carries the crispness commonly associated with white wines to tone down the beefiness of your meal.

#5. Manhattan

The Manhattan cocktail is the perfect cocktail for those who dislike vodka and gin but still want a drink that carries the air of elegance that comes with a fancy steak dinner. The base spirit is typically rye whiskey, although bourbon can be used instead if you prefer a sweeter taste. Dry vermouth is replaced by sweet vermouth, and the drink is brought together with a dash or two of aromatic bitters.

For a steak with a healthy dusting of seasoning and finished with a spicy pepper sauce, rye is a better base spirit, as the spicier whiskey will elevate the fiery notes. However, a sweeter bourbon will complement the steak spices nicely while simultaneously mellowing their harshness without masking the flavor–making it one of the best drinks to enjoy with a steak dinner.

#6. Dark Beer

A full-bodied beer like a dark stout or porter is the perfect complement to the rich, deep flavor of red meat, especially when selecting a cut like rib-eye. The bitterness of the dark liquor is enough to cut through the fat in the meat, similar to the tannins in red wine.

When selecting a lean cut like skirt, flank, or fillet steak, it is better to choose something softer, like a nutty brown ale or dark larger. Opting for anything stronger will drown out the more delicate flavor of the meat.

#7. Non-Alcoholic Options

A delicious steak dinner can be enjoyed without an alcoholic beverage. In fact, there are numerous non-alcoholic drink options that perfectly complement the steak’s rich flavor profile. Cranberry or pomegranate juice works well with red meat because it contains tannins, similar to red wine. Tannins act as the ideal palate cleansers and cut through the richness of the meat. Neither option is too sweet to overpower the steak’s savory nature.

Another refreshing option is a classic club soda with a twist of lemon or lime. The carbonation in the soda effectively cuts through the fat on the steak, cleansing the palate and balancing out the richness. The citrus notes from the lemon or lime further enhance the dining experience by contrasting the rich meat.

What do you think of our comprehensive list of some of the best drinks for steak dinners? Which is your favorite pairing?

Featured image: Pedro Furtado/Pexels

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