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what wine goes with lamb

What wine goes with lamb

The safest pick is a medium- to full-bodied red wine , especially Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux blends, Syrah/Shiraz, or Rioja/Tempranillo. For lighter lamb dishes, Pinot Noir also works very well.

Quick scoop

  • Roast or grilled lamb: Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux blend, Syrah/Shiraz, Rioja.
  • Herby lamb with rosemary, garlic, or thyme: Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Sangiovese/Chianti.
  • Lighter, pinker lamb: Pinot Noir.
  • Spiced lamb or tagine: Grenache-based blends or GSM.
  • White-wine option: A fuller white with texture and some smokiness, like Godello or a dry white from Jerez.

Best matches by style

Lamb dish| Good wine choices
---|---
Roast leg of lamb| Bordeaux blend, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rioja/Tempranillo 57
Lamb chops| Pinot Noir, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon 237
Slow-cooked shoulder or shank| Syrah, Grenache blend, GSM 1
Herb-crusted lamb| Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Syrah 13
Spiced or Moroccan-style lamb| Grenache-based blend, GSM 1

Easy rule

If the lamb is rich, roasted, or heavily seasoned , go with a more structured red. If it is lighter and more delicate , go with Pinot Noir.

If you want one bottle

A very reliable all-round choice is Cabernet Sauvignon-based Bordeaux or Syrah/Shiraz.

If you want, I can also give you the best wine for lamb chops, roast lamb, or lamb curry specifically.