Pork Chops Wine Pairing Guide

Looking for the perfect wine to complement pork chops? We've got you covered with our comprehensive Pork Chops Wine Pairing Guide.

Pork is one of our favorite proteins to cook with. You can prepare it in so many ways.

This versatile meat is great for special occasions as well as everyday weeknight meals, from pork tenderloin with apples and sage to pulled pork to air fryer pork belly bites. And that versatility means there are an array of delicious pork and wine pairings.

But pork chops are one of the most classic cuts. And when it comes to picking the best wine for pork chops, you'll want to keep a few things in mind. So I created this Pork Chops Wine Pairing Guide to help make it easier!

Wine pairing tips

Pork chops come from the loin area of the pig. They're typically leaner than other cuts. They can also be juicy and tender if cooked well. And pairing them with the right wine can make them even more delicious.

Here are a few things to consider when pairing wine with pork chops, whether they're bone-in or boneless.

Seasoning and cooking method

Pork chops can be prepared in a variety of ways. Ones with spicy seasoning or rubs — like these instant pot pork chops and rice that feature smoky paprika — will pair well with wines that also have a bit of spice or smokiness, like Garnacha or Tempranillo. For classic pork chops with applesauce, try something fruitier like a French Sauvignon Blanc or a Riesling, both known for their apple aromas.

Fat content

Fattier pork chops can add flavor your dish as that fat renders while cooking, but that can also create a very rich dish. A high-acid wine, like a Pinot Noir or unoaked Chardonnay can help balance excess fattiness and help the dish feel lighter.

Sauces

If your pork chops have a creamy sauce and you're looking for a wine to accentuate it, try a buttery Chardonnay. The wine will complement the texture of the sauce and make the dish seem even more luxurious. If you're using something like a sweet barbecue sauce, try pairing your chops with a Merlot, known for its ripe fruity notes and soft tannins.

White wine pairings with pork chops

As discussed above, several different factors can affect which wine may pair best with pork chops. But in general, these white wine varietals can all be good options.

1. Chardonnay - Chardonnay is among the most widely planted wine grapes in the world. And it's grown the world over. The result is a large range of Chardonnay wines. As noted earlier, a buttery Chardonnay can be a tasty complement to pork chops with a rich cream sauce. But a crisper, more acidic Chardonnay aged in stainless steel can highlight the acid in dishes like apple cider pork chops.
   
2. Sauvignon Blanc - With notes of citrus, green bell pepper, and fresh cut grass, Sauvignon Blanc is high in acidity and herbaceous flavors. And some, especially those from New Zealand, have prominent tropical fruit flavors.
   
   These characteristics make Sauv Blancs a good choice for a range of pork chop dishes, including those with citrus-based sauces or seasonings, or served alongside vibrant, fruity sides like a pineapple mango salsa.
   
3. Riesling - Riesling is also known for its zesty acidity, as well as prominent apple and stone fruit aromas. And it can range from very dry to off-dry to sweet.
   
   An off-dry Riesling can pair well with pork chops that have a bit of sweetness, like a maple or balsamic glaze.

Red wine pairings with pork chops

While pork is considered a light meat, that doesn't mean you need to pair it with a white wine.

Here are some red wine recommendations that pair well with pork:

1. Pinot Noir - Typically lighter in body and low in tannins, Pinot Noir can complement a variety of pork chop dishes. Its elegant structure complements pork chops with lighter sauces. And the wine's high acidity can cut through the richness of heavier ones. Pinot Noir is also known for its earthy aromas, making it an ideal match for pork chops with mushroom sauce.
2. Merlot - Also known for their soft tannins, but featuring more prominent darker fruit, Merlot can be a great match for pork chops prepared with a slightly sweet glaze, like barbecue sauce or a blackberry sauce.
3. Chianti - Another wine that's high acidity, Chianti can also help balance pork chop dishes with rich, creamy sauces or a lot of fattiness. It can also be a good complement to tomato-based sauces. Its prominent cherry and plum notes also play well with the savoriness of pork.

Rosé wine pairing with pork chops

When it comes to pork chops, rosé wines should not be overlooked. As with other styles of high-acid wines, rosés can balance heavier pork chop preparations and complement those with an acid component, like a citrus or fruit-based glaze.

They can also go extremely well with barbecued pork chops, as the wine's subtle sweetness will accentuate that of the sauce.

But it's best to avoid pairing a light-bodied rosé with highly seasoned chops, as the dish could overpower the wine.

Sparkling wine with pork chops

Sparkling wine may not be the first style to come to mind when considering pork chops. But the pairing can work well, especially with fried or breaded chops.

The acid and effervescence of the wine balance the fat in the dish and act as a refreshing palate cleanser, in the same way that sparkling wine and fried chicken complement each other.

Food and wine pairing FAQs

Pork chop recipes to try