Beer and Wine Pairings for Steak and Premium Meats
At TN Craft Butcher, we believe great meat deserves the right companion. The right beer or wine doesn’t just sit alongside a meal—it enhances flavor, balances richness, and elevates the entire experience. That’s why we’ve curated thoughtful beer and wine pairings for our premium meats, allowing customers to enjoy a full sensory experience while shopping, attending events, or simply relaxing in the shop.
Whether you’re planning a special dinner, hosting friends, or exploring new flavors, our knowledgeable staff is always happy to help guide you toward pairings that bring out the very best in every cut.
Wine Pairings That Elevate Every Bite
Ribeye + Bold Red Wines
Ribeye steaks are prized for their rich marbling and bold beef flavor. To match that intensity, full-bodied red wines are the perfect choice. These wines stand up to the fat content of ribeye, cleansing the palate while amplifying savory notes with every sip. The result is a balanced, indulgent pairing that feels indulgent without being overwhelming.
This pairing is ideal for:
Thick-cut ribeyes
Grilled or cast-iron-seared steaks
Special-occasion meals
Filet + Medium-Bodied Red Wines
Filet cuts are known for their tenderness and refined flavor profile. Rather than overpowering the meat, medium-bodied red wines complement the filet’s subtle richness and smooth texture. These wines add depth and warmth without overshadowing the delicacy of the cut.
This pairing works beautifully for:
Filet mignon
Pan-seared or oven-finished steaks
Elegant, minimalist meals
Duck + Pinot Noir
Duck’s naturally rich and slightly gamey flavor pairs exceptionally well with Pinot Noir, a wine known for its balance, acidity, and subtle fruit notes. This pairing enhances the savory qualities of duck while adding brightness and complexity to the dish.
Perfect for:
Roasted duck
Smoked or pan-seared duck
Elevated home-cooked meals
Beer Pairings for Bold, Flavor-Forward Meats
Smoked Meats + Dark Ales or Stouts
Smoked meats demand a beer with depth and character. Dark ales and stouts complement smoky flavors with roasted malt notes, subtle bitterness, and a satisfying richness that mirrors the intensity of slow-smoked cuts.
Ideal pairings include:
Brisket
Smoked pork shoulder
Heavily seasoned or bark-forward meats
Grilled Chicken + Lagers or Pale Ales
Grilled chicken is versatile and approachable, making it a natural match for crisp lagers or refreshing pale ales. These beers highlight the clean flavors of the meat while offering a light, refreshing finish—especially perfect during warmer months.
Great for:
Grilled chicken breasts or thighs
Wings and drumsticks
Casual gatherings and cookouts
Sausages + Amber Ales
Sausages are rich, seasoned, and packed with flavor, which makes amber ales an excellent pairing. Their malt-forward profile complements spices without overwhelming them, creating a smooth, satisfying balance.
Best enjoyed with:
Grilled sausages
Bratwurst or specialty sausage varieties
Backyard BBQs or in-store events
More Than a Butcher Shop — It’s an Experience
At TN Craft Butcher, pairing premium meats with beer and wine isn’t just about what’s on your plate — it’s about creating a place to gather, connect, and enjoy. Guests are welcome to enjoy a drink while browsing the shop, chatting with our team, or attending one of our events.
From casual conversations to community nights, tastings, and live events, the shop is designed to feel welcoming, relaxed, and engaging — a place where great food and good people come together.
If you’re unsure where to start, just ask. Our staff is always happy to recommend pairings that suit your taste, your meal, and the occasion.