Master the Art of
Meat Pairing
Discover perfect wine pairings, complementary sides, signature sauces, and ideal seasonings for every cut. Expert guidance from Marcus Thompson — certified sommelier and culinary consultant.
Featured Pairing Guides
In-depth guides to creating unforgettable flavor combinations — from wine selections to perfect side dishes.
The Complete Guide to Pairing Wine with Steak
Master the art of pairing wine with steak. Learn which wines complement each cut, from bold Cabernets with fatty ribeyes to elegant Pinots with tender filets.
Best Side Dishes for Every Cut of Beef
The right side dishes elevate a great steak from meal to experience. Learn which accompaniments complement each cut's unique character and richness.
Sauce Pairing Guide: From Chimichurri to Béarnaise
The right sauce can elevate a great steak to extraordinary. Learn the classic sauces, when to use them, and how each interacts with different cuts.
How to Season Every Cut of Meat Perfectly
Great seasoning enhances rather than hides the meat's natural flavor. Learn the science of salting, the best spice combinations, and when less is more.
About Marcus Thompson
Certified sommelier and culinary consultant with 20+ years studying the science and art of flavor pairing. Former restaurant consultant and author of "The Perfect Pairing."
Read My StoryAll Pairing Guides
The Complete Guide to Pairing Wine with Steak
Master the art of pairing wine with steak. Learn which wines complement each cut, from bold Cabernets with fatty ribeyes to elegant Pinots with tender filets.
Best Side Dishes for Every Cut of Beef
The right side dishes elevate a great steak from meal to experience. Learn which accompaniments complement each cut's unique character and richness.
Sauce Pairing Guide: From Chimichurri to Béarnaise
The right sauce can elevate a great steak to extraordinary. Learn the classic sauces, when to use them, and how each interacts with different cuts.
How to Season Every Cut of Meat Perfectly
Great seasoning enhances rather than hides the meat's natural flavor. Learn the science of salting, the best spice combinations, and when less is more.
The Art of Building a Meat & Cheese Board
Create impressive charcuterie boards with expertly paired meats, cheeses, and accompaniments. Learn the principles of balance, contrast, and visual appeal.
BBQ Sauce Styles and What They Pair With Best
From tangy Carolina vinegar to sweet Kansas City red, each BBQ sauce style has ideal meat pairings. Learn the regional traditions and how to match them.
Pairing Glossary
22 essential terms for understanding flavor science, wine pairing, and culinary techniques.
From the Blog
The 5 Biggest Wine Pairing Mistakes People Make with Steak
After years of consulting for steakhouses, I've seen the same wine pairing mistakes repeated. Here's what goes wrong and how to get it right.
Why Restaurant Steakhouse Sides Taste Better (And How to Replicate Them)
There's a reason steakhouse sides command $15 each. Here's what they're doing differently and how to bring those techniques into your kitchen.
The Science of Building Complementary Flavor Profiles
Why do certain flavors work together while others clash? The answer lies in flavor science — and understanding it will transform your pairing decisions.