From Steaks To Stews: How To Pair Shiraz Like A Pro
Shiraz is one of the most food-friendly red wines, thanks to its combination of bold fruit, gentle tannins, and warm spice. Our Signature Shiraz amplifies these traits with ripe berry flavours, peppery lift, and a smooth, rounded palate. This makes it the perfect partner for hearty meals, flavourful meats, and richly spiced South African dishes.
Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a winter stew, or a festive braai, Shiraz offers the structure and generosity to elevate every bite.
A Natural Match For Flame-Grilled Meats
Shiraz thrives alongside charred, smoky flavours. Its ripe fruit and peppery notes complement the boldness of grilled protein. Top pairings include:
(Ribeye) Steak
The wine’s dark fruit and spice echo the sear and richness of a well-grilled steak.
Lamb Chops
Shiraz’s savoury edge is a classic match for lamb’s depth and herbal seasoning.
Boerewors
The wine’s peppery lift complements the spice profile of South Africa’s beloved local sausage.
Pork Ribs
Sweet, smoky marinades work beautifully with the wine’s rich fruit.
Our Signature Shiraz is especially at home at a braai. It’s robust enough for the fire, yet smooth enough for relaxed enjoyment.
Perfect With Slow-Cooked, Hearty Dishes
Shiraz pairs effortlessly with winter favourites and long-simmered dishes. Its warmth and depth mirror the comfort of slow-cooked meals. Try it with:
- Lamb shanks
- Oxtail
- Beef stew
- Potjiekos
- Slow-braised brisket
These dishes bring out the wine’s darker fruit notes and subtle mocha character.
Handles Spice Better Than Most Reds
While many red wines clash with spice, Shiraz’s natural pepperiness and ripe fruit make it unusually spice-friendly. Delicious pairings include:
- Bobotie
- Cape Malay curry
- Spiced mince dishes
- Peri-peri chicken
The wine’s gentle tannins and smooth texture keep the palate comfortable, allowing spice and sweetness to shine.
Vegetarian Pairings That Work Beautifully
Shiraz isn’t only for enjoying alongside meat. Its richness also complements hearty plant-based dishes. Recommended vegetarian matches include:
- Mushroom risotto
- Roasted butternut
- Grilled aubergine
- Spiced lentil stew
- Charred peppers or veggie skewers
These dishes echo the wine’s earthy, savoury side.
A Proudly South African Pairing: Biltong & Droëwors
Biltong and droëwors are as South African as they come, and Shiraz happens to be one of the best reds to complement both. Its peppery spice mirrors the seasoning in droëwors, while the wine’s bold fruit stands right up to biltong’s concentrated, salty punch. Nothing is lost or overwhelmed.
It’s the kind of pairing that doesn’t need a table: a glass in hand and a board of biltong or droëwors is more than enough.
Made For Local Meals
Our Signature Shiraz is crafted for value, comfort, and flavour, a combination that makes it one of the most versatile reds within the Signature Selection. Its balance of fruit, spice, and smooth tannins means it slots naturally into everyday meals as well as festive occasions.
Whether it’s a family stew by the fire or a summer braai with friends, Shiraz is the red wine that consistently overdelivers. For more pairing ideas across the full Signature Selection, see our food and wine pairing guide.
