Argentine wines for barbecue: how to pair like an expert (without being a sommelier)
Have you ever ordered a glass of wine with your steak and felt that «something didn't fit»? It's not you. Chances are the pairing wasn't ideal.
The good news: pairing is not magic, it is method. And at Bacacay, we want you to enjoy your Argentine wines with the same confidence with which you choose your favorite cut.
This practical guide will help you to combine wines and dishes like a professional, without complications or technicalities. Just good taste, tradition and lots of flavor.
What makes Argentine wines special?
Before going into combinations, it is worth understanding what makes Argentina's wines unique:
🏔️ Height that makes the difference: Most of our vineyards are in Mendoza, at more than 800 meters above sea level. This generates grapes with thicker skins, more color and riper tannins.
☀️ Andean sun, warm days and cool nights: This thermal oscillation allows the grapes to ripen slowly, developing complex aromas without losing acidity.
🍇 Emblematic varieties: Argentina is the home of Malbec, but also shines with Bonarda, Torrontés and unique blends that you will not find anywhere else in the world.
At Bacacay, we personally select each label on our menu. Not only for their quality, but also for their ability to accompany our grilled meats.
Easy pairing: which wine with which dish (visual guide)
🍷 Malbec + Bife de chorizo
The classic couple that never fails.
Malbec is the Argentine wine par excellence: medium-high body, soft tannins, notes of plum, blackberry and a touch of vanilla. When it meets a juicy chorizo steak with its crispy fatty edge, the magic happens: the tannins «clean» the palate between bites, while the fruit of the wine enhances the flavor of the meat.
✅ When to order: Whenever you choose a cut with fat or intense flavor.
✅ Ideal temperature: 16-18°C (slightly cool, never cold).
✅ Bacacay Tip: «Ask for a glass to try. If you fall in love with it, go up to bottle».
🍷 Bonarda + Vacío
The authentic option that surprises.
Bonarda is lighter and fruitier than Malbec, with notes of cherry, raspberry and a touch of spice. Its natural acidity makes it the perfect companion for smoky flavored cuts such as vacuum, as it balances the intensity without overshadowing it.
✅ When to order: When you are looking for something different but accessible.
✅ Ideal temperature: 14-16°C (slightly cooler than Malbec).
✅ Bacacay Tip: «Ideal for sharing: one bottle of Bonarda is enough for the whole table».
🍷 Torrontés + Empanadas
The perfect aperitif, in white.
Before the meat, the empanadas. And before the red, a fresh white. Torrontés is Argentina's emblematic white wine: intense floral aromas, citric flavor and dry finish. It is the ideal companion for meat, chicken or cheese empanadas, as its acidity «cuts» the fat and refreshes the palate.
✅ When to order: To start the meal or with light dishes.
✅ Ideal temperature: 8-10°C (well chilled, but not frozen).
✅ Bacacay Tip: «Try it with our knife-cut beef empanadas. The contrast is spectacular.
🍷 Premium Blend + Sweetbreads
Elegance for the most daring.
If you go for the sweetbreads (we recommend it!), pair them with a signature blend: a careful blend of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and other varieties. These wines have complexity, structure and a long finish that complements the unique texture of the sweetbreads: crispy on the outside, soft on the inside.
✅ When to order: When you want to celebrate or try something special.
✅ Ideal temperature: 18°C (controlled room temperature).
✅ Bacacay Tip: «Ask for our selection of the month. There's always a gem waiting.».
Expert tips: how to order wine at Bacacay
You don't need to be a sommelier to enjoy a good wine pairing. You just need to know three things:
1️⃣ Tell us what you are going to eatOur team is trained to recommend you the ideal wine according to your order. «I'm ordering empty» is all the information we need.
2️⃣ Cup vs. bottle: when to choose each one
- Cup: Perfect for tasting, for light meals or if you are the only wine drinker at the table.
- Bottle: It's worth it if you're sharing a table, if you're ordering several dishes, or if you want to explore more than one variety.
3️⃣ Temperature and decanting: details that make a difference
- Red wines are served slightly chilled (never «at room temperature» if it is hot).
- Young wines do not need to be decanted; aged wines do.
- At Bacacay, we take care of everything: you just enjoy.
Our wine list: wines that you won't find anywhere else
At Bacacay, we do not only serve Argentine wine. We tell stories through every glass.
🏆 Personal selection: Alejandro and Laura regularly travel to Mendoza to visit wineries, meet producers and choose labels that reflect the best of each region.
🍷 Options for all: From affordable wines for uncomplicated enjoyment to collectible jewels for special moments.
✨ Surprise pairings: Each month, we highlight a new combination on our menu. Ask for «the griller's recommendation»: it's always a good idea.
Here's to your next visit
Now that you know the secrets of Argentine food pairing, only one detail is missing: reserve your table.
📍 Where: 31 Poeta Campos Vasallo St., Alicante (next to the Central Market)
📱 Easy booking: Write us by WhatsApp to 641 509 395
⏰ Schedule: Open every day, without weekly break
✨ Mention this guide when booking and we will give you an express tasting of two Argentine wines for you to discover your favorite.
Because at Bacacay, every glass tells a story. And we'd love the next one to be yours.
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