Aussie Wines and Burgers: A Match Made in Heaven
G’day mates! Ever found yourself munching on a juicy burger and thinking, “What drink would make this just perfect?” Well, you’re in luck because we’re diving headfirst into pairing burgers with some top-notch Australian wines. You know, I’m no stranger to slapping a burger on the barbie and topping it with a bit of beetroot just like the next bloke. But when it comes to washing it down, a VB just doesn’t always cut it. So, let’s spice things up and see which wines make our beloved burgers sing.
Classic Beef Burger with Shiraz
There’s something truly special about biting into a classic beef burger, isn’t there? The sizzling pattie, charred just right, all hugged by a squishy bun. Now, picture pairing this delight with a bold Australian Shiraz. With its rich berry flavors and peppery notes, Shiraz brings out the meaty umami of the beef. Trust me, it’s a dream team. Think of it as the Bonnie and Clyde of pairings—legendary and unbeatable.
Lamb Burger with Cabernet Sauvignon
I once had a mate, let’s call him Stevo, who insisted his mom made the best lamb burgers south of the equator. Stevo would swear by pairing it with a good ol’ Cabernet Sauvignon. Why? The deep and complex flavours of a Cab Sav balance the rich, gamey taste of lamb beautifully. Picture your lamb burger with that soft mint sauce—it’s poetry with a good glass of red.
Chicken Burger with Chardonnay
Now, you’d be thinking a chicken burger is a bit more of a laid-back affair, right? But don’t be fooled! The subtle flavours of grilled chicken need the light touch of a good Chardonnay. It’s like a fresh breath of coastal air, lifting the gentle flavours with hints of melon and toasted nut nuances. Whether it’s for a sunny arvo on the deck or a fancy Friday night dinner, this pair works. A little story—my aunty Sue goes weak at the knees for this combo and won’t eat her chicken burger any other way.
Veggie Burger with Sauvignon Blanc
A veggie burger might not wrestle for dominance on a barbie, but wow, it’s a tasty contender. With its crunchy veggies and maybe a cheeky slice of cheese, you’re gonna want something crisp and bright to drink. Enter Sauvignon Blanc. This zesty drop with its herbaceous notes fits as snug as a bug in a rug alongside a veggie burger. You’ll feel like you’re roaming a lush vineyard with every sip.
Pork Burger with Pinot Noir
Last on our list but by no means the least, the pork burger! Whether it’s paired with some apple slaw or tossed with a spicy sauce, a pork burger is a wildcard. And what better pairing than Pinot Noir? This light, fruity wine enhances the pork’s natural sweetness without overpowering. My uncle Tony has a knack for grilling pork burgers until they’re just right. He claims the best way to topple ‘em is with a sip of Pinot. Who am I to argue with family wisdom?
Finding Your Perfect Pairing
We’ve all had those days—wandering the aisles of a bottle shop like a kangaroo lost near the coast. But when you match your favourite burger to the perfect wine, it’s like finding a diamond in the rough. But hey, at the end of the day, rules are meant to be bent—sip what you love! And if you discover your own burger-wine match made in paradise, be sure to share it with your mates.
So, grab a burger from Burgers and Grills on King St, light up your grill, and open up a great bottle of Australian vino. Whether you savour a full-bodied Shiraz or dance with a fruity Pinot, there’s a pairing here to tickle every taste bud. Cheers to great burgers, even better wine, and the simple joys they bring! Bon appétit, and may your taste adventure be as vast as this great land of Oz.
