There's something incredibly satisfying about firing up that grill, soaking up the sunshine, and savouring deliciously smoky flavours. But what's the secret ingredient that takes this backyard barbecue from ordinary to extraordinary? It's simple: Mouth-watering recipes paired with the perfect wine. 

The warmer weather is here, and you know what that means – it's barbecue season! Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a newbie looking to impress, we've got you covered with irresistible barbecue recipes which incorporate wine to kick your favourite grilled meals up a flavour notch. This blog is the barbecue edition, prepping you for the grilling season ahead.  

At Wine Rack, we believe the right bottle of wine can elevate any barbecue experience. Our selection of budget-friendly wines will complement your grilled dishes perfectly, adding depth and richness to every bite. So, get ready to enhance your grilling game and make this barbecue season your best one yet. Let's kick things off with the star of the show – the sauce! 

Your New Favourite Barbecue Sauce 

A good barbecue deserves a good sauce, and we have the perfect wine-inspired recipe. This Red Wine Barbecue Sauce is a flavour-packed delight for chicken, pork tenderloin, and slow-cooked ribs. Trust us, after one taste of this sauce, you'll be hooked!

Ingredients:

• 1 medium onion, diced 
• 1 garlic clove, minced 
• 1 tsp vegetable oil 
• 1 tsp ground cumin 
• 1 tsp ground coriander 
• 1 tbsp sweet paprika 
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika 
• 1/2 cup red wine  
• 1/2 cup ketchup 
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Steps:

1. Sautee onions and garlic in a pan with oil.
2. Add dried spices and cook until spices are toasted and aromatic. 
3. Add remaining ingredients, and simmer until onions are tender and the sauce has a shiny glaze. 
4. Let it cool, then puree in a blender until smooth.
5. Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. 

Wine recommendations:

We suggest using a well-balanced red wine with rich flavour, acidity, and fruit character. These wines below are complementary for the barbecue sauce and for pairing alongside your grilled spread.

Jackson-Triggs Reserve Meritage: A wonderfully balanced taste of rich, red fruit, plum and oak flavours with structured acidity and a long, smooth finish. Hints of chocolate and spice on the nose make this wine a delicious, well-rounded wine. 

Inniskillin Niagara Estate Meritage: Aromas of bright fruit and spice with a touch of clove. This wine exhibits rich and robust currant flavours with well-integrated vanilla and toasted oak notes on the finish. 

Sandbanks Baco Noir: Soft and well-rounded. Juicy and jammy with notes of wild cherry and plum. The finish is smooth with hints of oak. 

Jackson-Triggs Proprietors’ Selection Cabernet Sauvignon: Dry and medium-bodied with lively crisp cassis berry character and very light tannins.

Your Ultimate White Wine Marinade

Now, let's talk marinades – the secret to succulent, flavourful grilled goodness. This Ultimate White Wine Marinade is a game-changer for all your grilling needs, whether you're cooking up meat, fish, or seasonal vegetables.  

Ingredients:​

• 1/4 cup white wine​ 
• 1/4 cup olive oil​ 
• Juice of half a lemon ​ 
• 1-2 tbsp brown sugar​ 
• A few sprigs of fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, oregano)​ 
• 1-2 cloves garlic, crushed​ 
• Sea salt​

Steps:​

1. Whisk together all the ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
2. Pour the marinade into a freezer bag and add your choice of meat, fish, or vegetables.
3. Let marinate in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours; 20 minutes for fish. 

Wine recommendations:

This marinade adds a burst of freshness and flavour that will leave your taste buds singing. Choose a wine with good acidity for your marinade that’s also delicious on its own by the glass.

Jackson-Triggs Reserve Sauvignon Blanc: Bright citrus and tropical notes of lime zest, grapefruit, mango, papaya, and cantaloupe with hints of lemongrass and snap peas. On the palate, distinct hints of ripe, juicy citrus, sweet floral and zesty minerality drive through to the finish. 

BASK Pinot Grigio: BASK in the moment with this delicious wine that is 0g sugar per 3/4 cup (188mL) serving. BASK Pinot Grigio is a bright, crisp wine with aromas of pear and lime and a clean and refreshing finish.  

Saintly the good Sauvignon Blanc: The perfect balance of dry, fresh and fruity. Notes of gooseberry and grapefruit on the nose with hints of fresh cut grass and lemon juice on the palate. Its bright acidity leads to a clean and fresh finish. 

Sandbanks Pinot Grigio: Medium bodied, dry and smooth. It offers deep pear notes, leading into light citrus notes and finishing with a hint of melon. A true crowd pleaser! 

Shop Wine Rack for Affordable, Quality Wines

The warmer weather calls for barbecues with family and friends. No barbecue is complete without the perfect bottle of wine to complement your dining experience. At Wine Rack, we're passionate about providing you with affordable, quality wines that elevate every sip and every bite. With over 160 locations across Ontario and convenient online shopping, finding your favourite bottle has never been easier. 

From smooth reds and crisp whites to fruity rosés and effervescent sparkling wines, our diverse selection ensures there's something for every palate and occasion. Plus, select stores are open late and on long weekends, so you can always count on us for your last-minute wine needs. And if you're pressed for time, don't worry – we offer Same-Day Delivery*, so you can enjoy your favourite wines with minimal wait time.  

So why not head to Wine Rack for great wines at a great price. With delicious recipes and the perfect wine pairings, your backyard barbecues are sure to be a hit! Cheers to impressing your guests with a feast they won't soon forget.

*Same-Day Delivery is available on certain online orders in select cities in Ontario through our delivery partners. Minimum order value must be $35 CAD. The Same-Day Delivery fee starts at $6.95 CAD.