Catena Zapata Malbec 2021
Mendoza, Argentina • classic
Blackberry, violet, and cocoa accented by polished tannins.
Steak Frites
beef • grilled • bistro
Also known as: steak and fries
About the Dish
Steak Frites is a french beef that leans on beef, grilled, bistro. We look for bottles that respect the texture and seasoning without drowning the dish.
Our goal: keep the beef feel intact while adding lift from Mendoza Malbec.
Top Pour: Mendoza Malbec
Dense fruit and firm tannin love charred steak and crispy potatoes.
Body: fullAcidity: mediumTannin: highSweetness: dry
Why it works
- Dense fruit soaks up steak char and peppercorn crusts.
- Firm tannin binds with beef fat, keeping the bite clean.
Signature aromas
blackberryvioletcocoa
Bottle inspiration
Pairing Playbook
- Dense fruit soaks up steak char and peppercorn crusts.
- Firm tannin binds with beef fat, keeping the bite clean.
- Avoid: light-bodied gamay, sweet red blends.
Solid Alternates
Chianti — Body: mediumChianti — Acidity: highChianti — Tannin: mediumChianti — Sweetness: dryMexican — Body: fullMexican — Acidity: mediumMexican — Tannin: mediumMexican — Sweetness: dry
FAQ
- What wine pairs best with Steak Frites?
- Mendoza Malbec is our first pour because Dense fruit and firm tannin love charred steak and crispy potatoes..
- Are there budget-friendly alternatives for Steak Frites?
- If Mendoza Malbec is out of reach, grab Chianti Classico—it shares the same structure and keeps the food in focus.
- Which wines should I avoid with Steak Frites?
- Skip styles like light-bodied gamay, sweet red blends—they fight the seasoning or overwhelm the dish.
- What if I want a non-alcoholic pairing for Steak Frites?
- Try sparkling water with a citrus twist, chilled oolong tea, or verjus spritzes—they mirror acidity without the alcohol.
Skip These Bottles
light-bodied gamaysweet red blends