June 3, 2025 Plume Ridge Bottle Shop

Wine and Taco Pairings

When it comes to taco pairings, most people immediately reach for a cold beer or a shot of tequila. And hey, we get it, those are tried-and-true partners for taco night. But if you haven’t tried wine paired with tacos then you’re missing out! Wine has the structure, acidity, and flavor complexity to complement the rich spices, char, and textures that tacos bring to the table. From smoky meats to zesty salsas, there’s a wine out there ready to make your taco even tastier.

Wine with Carne Asada Tacos

Carne asada (grilled beef), typically marinated in citrus, garlic, and spices, has bold, smoky flavors that call for a red wine with structure but not too much tannin.

Tempranillo – This Spanish red is earthy with enough acidity to cut through the richness of grilled beef, while flavors of red cherry and spice complement the marinade.
Zinfandel – A fruity, spicy California Zin is also a great match, especially if your carne asada has a bit of char.

Wine with Al Pastor Tacos

Al pastor is pork marinated with chilies and pineapple, roasted on a vertical spit. It’s sweet, spicy, savory, and often topped with fresh cilantro and onion.

Gewürztraminer – A slightly off-dry Gewürz has aromatic spice and lychee-like sweetness that plays beautifully with the pineapple and spice.
Grenache Rosé – Crisp and fruity, rosé refreshes the palate and enhances the smoky sweetness of the pork.

Wine with Carnitas Tacos

Carnitas are slow-cooked pork, usually braised in its own fat until meltingly tender and crispy. Rich, juicy, and full of flavor.

Chenin Blanc (especially from the Loire) – Its acidity lifts the richness, and stone fruit notes complement the pork’s savory depth.
Zinfandel – A juicy, fruit-forward red with bold blackberry and plum flavors, balanced by a touch of spice. Its richness complements the savory, slow-cooked pork, while the spice echoes the seasoning in carnitas.

Wine with Birria Tacos

Birria is the darling of the taco world right now, made with slow-braised beef or goat in a rich, spicy consommé. Often served with a dipping broth.

Malbec – Its bold, smoky notes and dark fruit richness hold up to birria’s deep flavor.
Syrah/Shiraz – Especially from the Northern Rhône or Barossa Valley, smoky, peppery, and robust.

Wine with Barbacoa Tacos

Barbacoa is tender, seasoned beef or lamb cooked low and slow, often with bay leaves and chiles, and has deep, earthy flavors.

Cabernet Franc – Earthy and herbaceous, it mirrors the barbacoa’s slow-cooked spices while offering freshness.
Sangiovese – The acidity and rustic notes of a Chianti or Rosso di Montalcino balance out the richness perfectly.

Wine with Pollo Asado Tacos

Pollo asado (grilled marinated chicken) is often citrusy, smoky, and a little spicy, lighter than beef or pork, but full of flavor.

Vermentino – Zesty, herbal, and citrus-driven, Vermentino works well with the chicken’s marinade.
Unoaked Chardonnay – Clean, fresh, and with enough body to support the grilled notes without overpowering the dish.

Wine with Fish Tacos

Whether it’s Baja-style battered fish with creamy slaw or grilled mahi with mango salsa, fish tacos are bright and textural.

Albariño – High acidity, citrus notes, and salinity make it a slam dunk with both fried and grilled fish.
Sparkling Wine – Bubbles are amazing with crunchy textures. A brut Cava or Champagne will elevate your taco game.

Wine with Lengua Tacos

Beef tongue (lengua) is tender, mild, and often cooked simply to let its texture shine. Eating beef tongue tacos might sound strange, but they're delicious, give it a try next time you see it on the menu.

Pinot Noir – Light but earthy, Pinot brings subtle fruit and umami that pair well with the silky richness of lengua.
Tempranillo – This Spanish red offers bright red fruit, earthy undertones, and a touch of spice. Its medium body and balanced acidity enhance the richness and tenderness of lengua without overwhelming it.

Wine with Ground Beef Tacos

The classic taco-night staple—seasoned ground beef, shredded cheese, lettuce, tomato, maybe some salsa. Comfort food at its finest.

Merlot – Soft and fruity with just enough structure to handle the beef and spices.
Garnacha (Grenache) – Easy-drinking and vibrant with red berry fruit and spice—perfect for casual taco nights.

So next taco Tuesday (or let’s be honest—any day ending in “y”), skip the cerveza, pop open a bottle of wine and enjoy some tacos!

Contributed by Ray Ibanez, E-Commerce Manager for Plume Ridge Bottle Shop.