How to Pair Aussie Wines with Classic American Dishes

Australian wines are as diverse and exciting as the country itself, offering big flavors, restrained elegance, and everything in between. But what happens when you pair these world-class wines with some classic American dishes? Magic.

Here’s how to match the distinct personality of Aussie wines with beloved American favorites to elevate your next meal.

1. Barossa Shiraz with BBQ Ribs

When it comes to pairing wine with smoky-sweet barbecue ribs, nothing beats a Barossa Shiraz. Australia makes Shiraz in over 60 different growing regions, but Barossa in general is known for its brawny style, with flavors of blackberry jam, liqueured plum, and cracked pepper. Barossa Shiraz complements the rich, tangy sweetness of barbecue sauce perfectly. The robust tannins also cut through the fattiness of the ribs, creating a clean finish. 

Pro Tip: Look for Carolina, Memphis, or Kansas City-style barbecue sauce, which will match the sweet-tart flavors of Barossa Shiraz. 

2. Pinot Noir with Mac & Cheese

Mac and cheese isn’t just comfort food—it’s a creamy, cheesy canvas for pairing. A supple but lean style grape like Pinot Noir provides all the flavor you want, without adding heft to an already rich dish. For extra pairing prowess, add some mushroom, truffle, and/or tomato to your mac and cheese. 

Pro Tip: Some of Australia’s top Pinot Noir regions include Macedon Ranges, Adelaide Hills, Gippsland, Tasmania and more. 

3. Cabernet Sauvignon with a Jalapeño-Cheddar Burger

A big, juicy burger - especially with a savory kick - deserves a wine that can hold its own, and that’s where Australian Cabernet Sauvignon shines. With dark fruit flavors like blackcurrant and cherry, and a touch of green pepper spice, this wine stands up to hearty beef patties, sharp cheddar, spicy jalapeño and smoky bacon.

Pro Tip: For savory, medium-bodied Cabs, look to Yarra Valley, Clare Valley, Adelaide Hills, Coonawarra/Wrattonbully, and Margaret River. For a bigger, plusher style, McLaren Vale and Barossa Valley offer the juice. 

4. Sparkling Rosé with Fried Chicken

Crispy fried chicken pairs perfectly with a vibrant sparkling rosé. The wine’s effervescence cuts through the fried batter, while its refreshing red fruit notes balance the savory flavors of the chicken. It’s a match that feels fancy but approachable—just like your favorite sparkling rosé.

Pro Tip: Sparkling wines from Tasmania are gaining global acclaim and offer the perfect amount of crispness and flavor for this pairing. But don’t sleep on Pet Nats from all over Australia, which can provide a creamier mouthfeel and more unusual flavors. 

5. Sauvignon Blanc with Tex-Mex Tacos

The defining feature of Tex-Mex tacos are a flour tortilla, ground beef, cheddar cheese, and lettuce. While beef is often paired with red wine, Sauvignon Blanc here actually offers up exactly what the dish needs: a bit more fruit, acidity, and freshness. Its tropical fruit flavors, herbaceous undertones, and refreshing acidity brighten up every bite. Add a squeeze of lime to your tacos, and you’ll see how the wine and the dish play off each other perfectly.

Pro Tip: While Australia isn’t as well known for its Sauvignon Blancs as neighboring New Zealand, the Australian version actually provides a more restrained, less pungent, approach to the grape. Look to Adelaide Hills, Margaret River, Yarra Valley, and Tasmania for some beautiful examples. 

A World of Flavor Awaits

Pairing Australian wines with American classics isn’t just delicious—it’s a fun way to explore how bold flavors and diverse cuisines come together. Whether you’re grilling ribs, frying chicken, or indulging in mac and cheese, the right Aussie wine can enhance every bite. 

So, the next time you open a bottle from your wine club delivery, grab your favorite American dish and experiment. You might just discover your new go-to pairing!