Lamb Pairings

Lamb and wines made from the Cabernet Sauvignon grape varieties have traditionally matched very well together. The Spanish serve lamb with Rioja, but the Californian Zinfandel and the Washington Merlot work just as well with this meat. Lamb is one of those meats that tends to work well with all wines, however, specific wines can do a great deal to enhance certain meals. Barbecued lamb in the kabob style does very well with lively flavored wines like the Cabernet Franc or Shiraz. The spices work well with the bustling flavors in the wines. Broiled lamb, on the other hand, does better with Zinfandel, healthy Cabernet Sauvignons, Merlots and Riojas. Lamb chops go better with aged wines. Try serving this dish with Spanish Rioja, Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. Although meat such as lamb does well with wines, sometimes sauces such as the classic mint sauce that is served with this dish, will spoil all attempts at pairing. Otherwise, roast lamb does well with aged Bordeaux or very good Cabernet Sauvignon. Lamb shanks often have many added flavors that match superbly with Spanish Rioja, Rhone reds, or hearty Zinfandels. Boldly flavored stews work well with Chianti, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Zinfandel. More delicately flavored lamb stews work better with Merlot or Syrah.