When the grill heats up and the burger hits the grate, one of summer’s finest rituals begins. But the classic question always follows – what should you drink with it? Beer is the obvious answer for many, but here’s a more refreshing take.
Why not treat a well-crafted burger with the same respect as a grilled steak or roasted duck? It’s time to raise the glass – and the bar.
Wine with Burgers – Think Bigger
A juicy burger with caramelized onions, cheddar, and maybe a strip of bacon pairs beautifully with a bold red wine. The structure, acidity, and depth of wine can both elevate and balance the richness of a burger. Here are a few standout pairings:
Zinfandel – The smoky companion
Zinfandel from California often brings dark berries, vanilla, and spice – the perfect complement to sweet sauces, bacon, and grilled notes.
Syrah/Shiraz – For the heat lovers
Spicy toppings like jalapeños or chipotle mayo? Syrah (or Shiraz from Australia) offers peppery power and ripe fruit that meet the heat head-on.
Gamay – Light and lively
For chicken, veggie or lighter burgers, a chilled Gamay from Beaujolais brings fresh red fruit, subtle earthiness, and a refreshing finish.
Beer – But Choose Wisely
Of course, beer can be brilliant with burgers – but skip the generic lager. Here are three styles worth pouring:
IPA – For the cheese lovers
The bitterness of an IPA stands up to rich cheeses like cheddar or blue. It also cuts through fat and lifts flavor intensity.
Porter/Stout – With BBQ-style burgers
Dark beers with roasted malt, coffee, or chocolate notes work wonderfully with smoky sauces, grilled mushrooms, or caramelized onions.
Saison – The unexpected refresher
This Belgian farmhouse ale is spicy, dry and effervescent – ideal with pickled toppings, herbs, or zesty sauces.
Cocktails? Definitely.
Cocktails and burgers don’t get enough love – but they absolutely should. The right cocktail can add acidity, lift or complexity.
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Whiskey Sour: Rich, tart, perfect for onions and aged cheese
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Negroni: Bitter complexity meets truffle mayo and greens
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Margarita: Bright and bold with guacamole, coriander, or lime
Sophisticated Non-Alcoholic Options
Non-alcoholic doesn’t have to mean boring. Here are some refined pairings without the ABV:
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A hoppy, alcohol-free IPA
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Chilled hibiscus tea with fresh lime
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Dry, French-style non-alcoholic cider
Whether you’re into wine, craft beer, or creative cocktails, there’s always a drink that makes a burger better. It’s all about matching flavor intensity, balancing the toppings – and most importantly, trying something new. For those collecting corks in a Corkframe, maybe that Zinfandel from burger night deserves its place on the wall.
