Reno Wine Bars: The Grill at Quail Corners
Reno, Nevada, is not just known for its stunning landscapes and bustling nightlife; it's also home to a burgeoning wine culture that's attracting enthusiasts from all over. At the heart of this thriving scene is The Grill at Quail Corners, a gem that offers an unparalleled wine experience. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or just starting your journey into the world of wine, The Grill at Quail Corners has something special to offer.
Over the past few years, Reno's wine culture has grown significantly. The city's wine scene is evolving, with new wine bars and local vineyards emerging, adding to the rich tapestry of Reno's social and dining landscape. Wine has become an essential part of social gatherings and fine dining, making it a staple in the city's culinary offerings.
Reno's local vineyards and wine bars have been pivotal in this growth, offering a variety of wines that cater to diverse palates. These establishments not only provide a platform for wine enthusiasts to explore different varieties but also play a crucial role in promoting local wines. The Grill at Quail Corners stands out among these, contributing to the wine culture with its exceptional selection and unique events.
One of the key highlights of The Grill at Quail Corners is its impressive wine list. The restaurant boasts a diverse selection of wines, ranging from local favorites to rare international gems. Each wine on the list is carefully curated to ensure a perfect match for the restaurant's culinary creations.
The Grill takes pride in its emphasis on local and regional wines, supporting nearby vineyards and offering guests a taste of Reno's finest. Whether you're in the mood for a robust red or a crisp white, you'll find a wine that suits your taste. The knowledgeable staff at The Grill is always ready to help you select the perfect wine to complement your meal, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
The Grill at Quail Corners goes beyond just offering a great wine list; it hosts wine tasting events and special wine dinners off and on throughout the year that elevate the wine culture experience. These events provide an excellent opportunity for guests to explore new wines, learn from experts, and enjoy a curated dining experience.
Wine tastings at The Grill are thoughtfully designed to introduce guests to a variety of wines, often featuring selections that are not readily available elsewhere. These events are a fantastic way to expand your wine knowledge and discover new favorites. Customers who have attended these tastings often rave about the experience, highlighting the excellent service and the opportunity to learn in a relaxed, enjoyable setting.
What sets The Grill at Quail Corners apart is not just its wine selection but also its exquisite dining experience. The restaurant pairs its wines with a menu that features dishes designed to complement the flavors of the wines. Signature dishes like the fresh grilled Alaskan salmon to the perfectly cooked filet mignon as well as a customer favorite with the portabello mushroom raviolis are crafted to enhance the wine tasting experience, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
The ambiance at The Grill is another aspect that makes it a must-visit. With a cozy yet elegant setting, it provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing evening. The service is top-notch, with a staff that is attentive and knowledgeable, ensuring that every visit is memorable.
Reno's wine culture is vibrant and growing, with The Grill at Quail Corners playing a significant role in its development. From its extensive wine list to its special events and outstanding dining experience, The Grill offers something for every wine lover.
Make your next dining experience one to remember by exploring Reno's wine culture at The Grill at Quail Corners.
At The Grill at Quail Corners, fine dining in Reno goes beyond exceptional cuisine—it's about finding the perfect wine pairing to elevate your experience. Dive into the extensive wine selection at The Grill and discover how expertly chosen wines can enhance your meal and make your evening unforgettable.
Behind every exceptional wine selection is a knowledgeable sommelier, and at The Grill, our sommelier ensures that fine dining in Reno is elevated to a new level. With a curated wine list featuring everything from crisp whites to robust reds, each recommendation is crafted to complement our menu, enhance flavor profiles, and enrich the overall dining experience. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or new to the world of wine, trust our sommelier’s expertise to guide you to the perfect bottle for your meal.
Pairing the right wine with your meal can elevate the flavors and take fine dining in Reno to the next level. At The Grill, our team has thoughtfully crafted wine pairings for every dish on our menu. Whether you're savoring seafood, poultry, red meat, or vegetarian options, there’s a perfect wine to complement your meal. From bold Cabernets to delicate Chardonnays, experience how the right pairing can enhance each bite and transform your dining experience.
Not sure where to start when selecting a wine? Don't worry; we've got you covered. Our article provides practical tips for choosing the perfect wine based on your personal preferences and dining occasion. Whether you're celebrating a special milestone or simply enjoying a weekday lunch, our tips will help you navigate our extensive wine selection with confidence.
At The Grill, we believe that fine dining in Reno is about more than just exceptional cuisine—the perfect wine pairing can elevate the entire experience. By exploring our carefully curated wine selection and trying different pairings, you'll uncover new aromas, flavors, and textures that enhance your meal and leave you wanting more.
Immerse yourself in the heart of Reno, where the vibrant threads of history weave together to unveil a culinary masterpiece that embodies elegance, charm, and a deep-rooted sense of tradition—the renowned and iconic family-owned establishment known as The Grill. With a legacy dating back to the illustrious gold rush era, The Grill is regarded as one of the best restaurants in Reno. We will unravel the art of fine dining in Reno at The Grill, casting a luminous spotlight on the meticulous usage of cutlery, enriching your experience as you indulge in the tantalizing menu and explore the extensive array of beverages on offer.
As you step through the doors of The Grill, you are immediately transported to a bygone era. The meticulously preserved décor, reminiscent of the gold rush era, evokes a sense of timeless charm and warmth. Crystal chandeliers cast a soft glow over the rich mahogany furnishings, while the intimate table settings beckon you to indulge in an unforgettable dining experience. The soft murmurs of conversation intermingle with the subtle melodies of live piano music, creating an ambiance that exudes both elegance and relaxation.
At The Grill, every dish is a masterpiece, carefully crafted to tantalize your taste buds and leave a lasting impression. From the moment you peruse the menu, you will discover a symphony of flavors, showcasing both traditional favorites and innovative creations that reflect the culinary evolution of the Francovich family over generations.
To truly grasp the culinary mastery showcased at The Grill, it is vital to embrace the essence of cutlery etiquette. Every course serves as a gateway to immerse yourself in a sensory journey, where flavors and textures harmonize to create a symphony of delight upon your discerning palate.
Begin your epicurean journey with finesse by employing the appropriate cutlery for each delectable morsel. Delight in the delicate balance of flavors in the Grilled Shrimp Skewers, embracing the succulent shrimp with the tines of your fork and gracefully transferring it to your awaiting taste buds. The creamy Lobster Bisque begs to be enjoyed with a soup spoon, savoring each spoonful as it caresses your palate.
As the main course arrives, the beauty of the presentation will mesmerize you. The tender Filet Mignon, accompanied by the velvety smoothness of the Béarnaise sauce, demands the precision of a steak knife to navigate the culinary masterpiece with elegance. For those seeking the epitome of luxury, the Rack of Lamb embodies refinement. Glide your knife through the succulent meat, allowing it to part effortlessly from the bone. Each bite is an ode to the art of fine dining, where the synergy of flavors transports you to culinary bliss.
Completing your culinary symphony at The Grill, the divine desserts command your attention. The Golden Apple Crisp, adorned with a crown of vanilla ice cream, entices you to employ the dainty grace of a dessert fork, ensuring each bite is savored to the fullest. The velvety smoothness of the Chocolate Mousse Cake is revealed as you delicately glide your fork through its layers, embracing the chocolatey indulgence with every forkful.
At The Grill, the art of fine dining goes beyond the delectable flavors and exquisite presentation; it encompasses the grace and elegance with which you wield your cutlery. Allow yourself to be guided by the following general rules of cutlery usage, adapted to the unique dining experience at The Grill:
Start from the outside: Work your way from the outermost cutlery towards the plate as each course is served, ensuring you choose the appropriate utensil for each dish.
The art of the knife and fork: Hold your knife with your right hand and fork with your left hand, with the tines facing downward. After cutting a bite-sized portion, rest your knife on the edge of your plate, transfer your fork to your right hand, and bring it to your mouth.
The silent language of cutlery placement: Pay attention to the subtle cues provided by the restaurant staff. When you momentarily pause during your meal, place your knife and fork in the "resting" position—a "V" shape—with the tines of the fork pointing up. To signal that you have finished your meal, place the knife and fork parallel across the plate, with the handles resting at the four o'clock position and the tines of the fork pointing up.
To complement your culinary voyage at The Grill, indulge in the extensive beverage offerings that celebrate both tradition and innovation. Allow the velvety richness of the Francovich Holiday Nog to envelop your senses, transporting you to a realm of seasonal delight. For those seeking a touch of sophistication, the Francovich Manhattan cocktail, crafted with care and precision, captures the essence of The Grill's history and its enduring legacy.
As our voyage through the realm of fine dining at The Grill draws to a close, we extend a heartfelt invitation to embark on a culinary adventure that seamlessly weaves together history, tradition, and innovation. Immerse yourself in the exquisite ambiance, delight in the extraordinary flavors that grace the menu, and savor the flawless artistry of cutlery usage. Whether you seek a romantic evening, a joyous celebration, or a memorable milestone, The Grill guarantees an fine dining experience that will etch itself indelibly into the tapestry of your cherished memories. Visit one of the best restaurants in Reno today!
To ensure you secure your place at this remarkable establishment, we urge you to make a reservation today. Allow the Francovich family's legacy to envelop you, and let The Grill be the catalyst for an authentic and unparalleled fine dining experience in Reno.
Your gastronomic journey awaits at The Grill—where history, elegance, and culinary artistry converge.
Imagine the heartache of limited availability and the desperate scramble for reservations. To steer clear of this emotional turmoil, strategic planning is your trusted ally. Begin by meticulously researching and selecting the ideal restaurant well in advance. Behold, the power of timely reservations! Check online or make that all-important call, especially during peak hours or special occasions. With expert foresight, you seize the golden opportunity to secure the perfect reservation for your amorous affair.
Mistake 2: Ignoring Ambiance and Atmosphere - Ignite the Flames of PassionAh, the ambiance! It is the siren's call that beckons the weary souls in search of romance. To disregard this enchanting element is to invite doom upon your evening. Your quest for an unforgettable experience demands a discerning eye. Seek restaurants that bathe in the soft glow of dim lighting, boasting cozy seating arrangements that wrap you in their tender embrace. A tapestry of warmth, where intimate settings and a captivating décor intertwine, awaits you and your paramour.
Oh, the frustration of limited choices and culinary chaos! Never underestimate the importance of menu compatibility—it is the foundation upon which your love story can flourish. When exploring fine dining in Reno, take the time to research restaurants that cater to the dietary preferences and restrictions of both you and your partner. Look for establishments offering a variety of culinary delights to tantalize your taste buds and create a symphony of flavors that satisfies every craving. Let your palates intertwine as you enjoy an unforgettable evening of fine dining in Reno, where every bite brings you closer together.
In the world of romance, every detail matters, and no desire should go unmet. However, inattentive service can cast a shadow over even the most special evening. When planning a night of fine dining in Reno, prioritize finding establishments renowned for their exceptional service and warm hospitality. Rely on recommendations and heartfelt testimonials to guide your choice. With attentive, knowledgeable staff, your dining experience will be elevated, creating a memorable evening that leaves an indelible mark on your hearts and strengthens your connection.
Now, dear adventurers of love, prepare to unleash the unexpected and embrace the power of surprise. Let petals of desire unfurl before their eyes as a symphony of scents fills the air. In this realm of romantic possibilities, orchestrate the unexpected. Shower your partner with unexpected gestures, like a bouquet of flowers that whispers of devotion or a small token that captures the essence of your connection. These tender acts of thoughtfulness ignite the spark of surprise, transforming your evening into a masterpiece of love.
A flawless romantic dinner is well within your reach. By avoiding common pitfalls and embracing the tips we’ve shared, you can transform your evening into an unforgettable experience. From strategic reservation planning and the perfect ambiance to menu compatibility, attentive service, and a touch of surprise, fine dining in Reno becomes the backdrop for a love story to remember. Let this guide inspire a date night that goes beyond the ordinary, leaving cherished memories that will linger in your hearts. Plan, ignite the romance, and watch your story unfold with each unforgettable dinner.
Experience fine dining in Reno with The Grill at Quail Corners
What makes a good wine pairing? For beginners, learning how to pair wine with food can be an interesting process for your taste buds. A wonderful food and wine pairing creates a balance with the overall components of a dish and the characteristics of a wine. Typically, red wines are bitter, white, sparkling, and rosés are all acidic, and sweet wines live up to their name.
As for the taste of food, consider its intensity and if it’s overall super light or rich. Another concept to consider is the power of each component in the dish, like its sweetness, fat content, acidity, or spice. For an additional challenge, you can make a meal based on the wine instead of the other way around!
Over time, it’s been proven in the food industry that some types of wines match better with the sauce instead of the meat. For example, rosé pairs well with cheese and other cheesy dishes thanks to its acidity like white wine and fruity notes like red wine. Making a spicy dish? Be sure to have sweeter wines on hand instead of dry ones to balance out the acidity, like Syrah.
Don’t panic if you’re struggling to find the perfect wine to serve with your carefully cooked dishes. Wine pairing is not always easy at first, but as long as you pay attention to boldness and sweetness, you’ll be successful. Once you feel comfortable and an expert in what pairs well, we strongly encourage you to break the rules and switch up the flavor palette!
If you are looking for a Reno wine bar that is classy, has great food and a great atmosphere, you should check out The Grill or Vino Reno today! We have an extensive food and beverage menu at these locations and are happy to provide the wine and food pairings you’ve always dreamed about.
One way to destress after a long day at work is by treating yourself to a fresh, cold drink during happy hour in Reno. What could be better than enjoying a specialty cocktail, draft beer, or glass of wine with friends at a bar with outdoor seating? To us, the answer is “not much.” Here at The Grill, we make Reno happy hour an experience you won’t forget. From the patio seating and cool ambiance to the delicious food and drinks, it’s easy to see why we were voted the best place for Happy Hour in Reno.
Learn more about our specialty drinks, fresh food options, and outdoor seating below!
We’re open to serve the public Monday through Friday and have daily happy hour specials available from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM. Whether you’re trying to unwind from your long workday or simply want to enjoy a drink with some pals before the weekend, The Grill is the perfect spot for an open happy hour in Reno.
To make happy hour in Reno more enjoyable, we’ve crafted some amazing specialty cocktails that you can’t find at other happy hour spots. The Grill at Quail Corners has also connected with local alcohol vendors to create a list of signature cocktails and specialty drinks that use the finest native-made spirits.
Our favorite specialty cocktail is the Francovich Manhattan. This drink is exclusively made by owners of The Grill, the Francovich family. The locally-made whiskey used in our Manhatten is crafted in stainless steel micro-batches for undeniable flavor and quality. You can request this drink be served straight up or on ice.
Each of our domestic beers is just $4 during happy hour at The Grill. Our happy hour domestic beers include Bud, Bud Light, Coors Light, Miller Light, and Michelob Ultra. Similarly, any cocktail made with our well spirits, including Vodka, Rum, Gin, Bourbon, Tequila, and Scotch, will be just $6. Upgrading to a martini, manhattan, or old-fashioned is just $2 more! And if you’re more of a wine drinker, we have a nice selection of red and white wines to choose from for only $5 a glass.
A good happy hour spot in Reno will also offer deals on food as an extension of their happy hour specials. At The Grill, we have a $6, $8, and $10 bar and dinner food menu to choose items from. We have snacks such as french bread pizza or a bowl of popcorn on our $6 menu with delicious appetizers like spicy BBQ chicken wings and shrimp scampi on the $10 menu. Just like our dinner menu items, our happy hour snacks are made with the freshest, highest quality ingredients.
Out of all the bars with patios in Reno, The Grill provides the best experience for your happy hour. During the warmer months, our guests like to enjoy a drink and a snack on the patio, and you will too. Not only is our patio shaded by individual umbrellas at each table, but the environment is also relaxing and surrounded by greenery. And, our patio is pet-friendly, so all you dog parents out there can feel free to bring your pet along for some fun, too.
With patio seating, specialty drinks, quality food at a low price, a vibrant ambiance, and gorgeous outdoor seating, The Grill provides the best happy hour experience in Reno. At The Grill, happy hour isn’t just about the drinks. It’s about the food, the atmosphere, and the overall Reno dining experience you get. Our happy hours are from 3:30 – 5:30 PM Monday through Friday. We have beer, wine, and cocktails on the menu for $4-$6, and food options ranging from $6-$10. Our outdoor patio is perfect for enjoying the fresh air and summer sun, and our indoor seating is nice and relaxing.
Check out our happy hour menu here and book a table with us today!
Although The Grill at Quail Corners opened in 1999, the family’s love for restaurants and Nevada goes way back to the 19th century. The modern American and international fine dining grill in Reno that many have come to know and love took inspiration from the owner’s ancestors, who have extensive experience in the bar and restaurant scene. The locally-owned and family-operated business was created by 5th generation Nevadans who strive to keep their family traditions alive. Learn more about the best steakhouse in Reno and connect with The Grill today!
The Francovich family’s restaurant and bar roots started with Eli Francovich who migrated to the U.S. from Petrovac, Yugoslavia in 1850. Nine years later in 1859, Eli moved to Reno, Nevada, and opened The Wine House, one of Reno’s very first restaurants and bars. Located in the heart of downtown Reno, The Wine House rose to success in bringing family and friends together to bond over delicious food and spirits.
After operating continuously for 87 years, the fourth generation American Francovich’s decided to close the doors of the Wine House to pursue other life goals. Eli, his son Spiro, and Spiro’s children kept the family’s traditions and the Wine House alive until 1957. And 42 years later in 1999, Sam Francovich, 5th generation Nevadan, decided to return his family back to its restaurant and bar roots by opening The Grill.
Sam Francovich opened The Grill at Quail Corners in 1999 as a way to bring back family tradition and follow his own passions of running a local restaurant and bar. Though this job isn’t easy, nothing brings joy to the Francovich family like seeing happy customers enjoying the food and drinks specially prepared by their team.
The Grill has brought the family back to its roots and prides itself on serving wonderful food by people who care. We provide you with a fine dining experience along with the best lunch and dinner options in Reno that will make you want to come back!
At The Grill, all meals are prepared with the freshest ingredients. That being said, changes are often made to the menu in order to deliver the best, fresh ingredients to our guests. Whether you’re looking for a bite to eat with friends or a romantic night out with your significant other, The Grill is the restaurant to choose from Between the refreshing cocktails, fresh ingredients, and relaxing ambiance, there’s no wonder it’s one of Reno’s favorite restaurants and bars.
Our restaurant can be a hot spot for lunch, dinner, and happy hour. We have an array of alcoholic beverages which include our family made Francovich Manhattan and the Francovich Holiday Nog. In addition to our family made drinks, we also have unique twists on iconic drinks such as the Old Fashion, Espresso Martini, and more.
Enjoying a nice meal with a few close friends or family is a great way to spend your time, especially with little else to do thanks to the pandemic. If you’re looking for the best steakhouse in Reno, come check out The Grill!
Both the outdoor patio and indoor dining areas comply with the recommended social distancing guidelines and protocols. Connect with The Grill today to set up a reservation and be a part of the amazing dining experience!
Following the family tradition, Sam Francovich decided to open The Grill at Quail Corners in 1999 and it’s since thrived on its delicious food and quality cocktails. There are so many things to love about The Grill. From the delicious food and drinks to the friendly service and atmosphere, it’s easy to see why The Grill is the best restaurant in Reno!
The Grill is locally-owned by 5th generation Nevadans who are committed to serving the residents of Reno with the best food and drinks around. The Francovich family has roots in the bar and alcohol industry and uses this knowledge to craft their specialty drinks, including their well known Francovich Holiday Nog.
The waiters and waitresses are very knowledgeable and are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding the food and drink menus.
The atmosphere of the restaurant is perfect for having a nice date night out and can accommodate an important business meeting. The restaurant area is both quiet, but lively, allowing you to enjoy being around music and people, while also being able to hear the people at your own table.
The menu has changed over time, but that’s only because we want our guests to have a truly wonderful experience when they come in to dine at The Grill. We like to keep things fresh, especially when it comes to our food. That’s why we like to change up the menu from time to time while using only fresh ingredients in our food.
The Grill has not one wine menu, but TWO wine menus! They’ve hand-selected wines that are best enjoyed during lunch and a wine list that is best suited to enjoy during a dinner meal. The Grill even goes above and beyond offering two separate wine lists for guests by providing red wine and white wine pairing suggestions on their blog! Check it out next time you’re wondering which wine would pair best with your meal.
The Grill comes from a family that began as experts in the alcohol industry. They continue to sell their Francovich Holiday Nog which was first made popular at The Wine House, which was also owned and operated by the Francovich family. Another one of their signature cocktails is the Francovich Manhattan which is made locally in the Reno area.
Food from The Grill is always made using quality ingredients. We take pride in our food which means we use the best ingredients available and prepare it using the best methods and practices. We even get fresh-caught whole Halibut from Alaska delivered right to our door between May and November.
We switch up our menu to stay consistent with the seasonal changes. Not only does this help us conserve our resources and improve our food’s freshness, but it also gives our guests the chance to enjoy some holiday or seasonal foods during their favorite times of the year.
The Grill has a beautiful outdoor patio that is away from traffic noise and is a nice option for guests who want to enjoy the fresh outside air.
Not to mention, the outdoor patio is pet-friendly! Guests are welcome to bring their pets along while they still get to enjoy a fine dining experience.
#11 Happy HourThe Grill’s Happy Hour specials provide great rates on selected drinks and food items. Drink prices range from $3 - $5, and happy hour foods range from $4 - $8. And happy hour doesn’t end on Friday. You can count on savings continuing through to Saturday too.
The Grill’s Royalty program offers rewards for signing up to be a royalty member. The reward program is free to sign up for and provides many added benefits for guests who collect points during their visits. For more information on how the program works, check out our Rewards Program page.
When you want to go out for a fine dining experience with a large group of people, The Grill is the perfect restaurant destination. There’s plenty of seating available to accommodate a large group, and making a reservation is simple.
Vino Reno is The Grill’s separate dining space for large private parties and special events. If you’re looking to host a special occasion such as a reception dinner, birthday, or important business meeting then check out Vino Reno at The Grill.
The Grill is located in the Quail Corners South which is right on S. McCarran Blvd, a major road in the Reno area. Not only is it convenient to get to, but it’s also close to the Meadowood Mall, and a wide variety of shopping centers.
The Grill has strived for 20 years to provide Reno locals with quality food and service that makes them the best restaurant in Reno. Check out The Grill’s reviews to see firsthand how they’ve been giving their guests the best dining experience possible.
Part of what makes The Grill one of the best restaurants in Reno is the passion they put into each meal, each drink, and every service. Their attention to detail and quality is meant to provide each guest with the best dining experience possible. And after serving the Reno locals with delicious food and drinks for the past 20 years, it’s no surprise that they’ve thrived in their industry.
Enjoying a nice meal with a few close friends or family is a great way to escape the confinements of quarantine while remaining safe and healthy. Both the outdoor patio and indoor dining areas comply with the recommended social distancing guidelines and protocols. Connect with The Grill today to set up a reservation and be a part of the amazing dining experience!
Join us at The Grill's patio to experience the best outdoor dining in Reno, NV! Temperatures are rising and the sun is shining. Now’s the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors, and what better way to do that than with your favorite meal? The Grill is happy to announce that our outdoor dining in Reno is open, and we’d love to share our delicious food and serene patio with all of the city. With everything going on in the world at the moment, maintaining some normalcy can help us feel more at ease amidst all the chaos. One thing that people have been missing the most is the opportunity to have a meal and drink with some friends or family. Fortunately, the outdoor seating at The Grill can give you the chance to do just that, all while maintaining proper social distance. We turn outdoor dining into an elegant, fine dining experience. Call 775.827.6262 or click the link above to book a reservation today!
If you’ve ever been to The Grill, then you already know how amazingly delicious everything is that comes from their kitchen. From yummy burgers and pizzas to elegant plates of chicken and fish, The Grill has something for everyone to enjoy. Why not enjoy that mouthwatering meal among the trees and sunshine? Not only does outdoor dining allow you to enjoy a nice meal and some nature all at once, but it might also be the safest way to visit a restaurant at this time. Our outdoor setup provides you, and whoever you’re dining with, a safe amount of distance between you and other guests. You’ll have a bit more privacy this way and you may even feel more comfortable re-introducing yourself back into the community.
Come enjoy The Grill’s delicious dishes while embracing the warmth of the summer sun and the beautiful elements of nature with their outside patio. Each table comes with its own umbrella, perfect for creating shade if it’s just a little too bright out. And for all you dog lovers out there, their patio is pet friendly! The wide tables are perfect for moderate-sized groups or for a couple enjoying a night out.
The Grill at Quail Corners turns casual dining into an elevated food experience. With our extensive lunch and dinner menus, there are plenty of options for whatever mood you’re in. If you’re over the age of 21, then check out our specialty cocktails and wine! We’d love for you to join us this summer for some yummy food and tasty drinks!
You don’t have to be a connoisseur of red wine to enjoy a glass of it every now and again. It can be difficult to differentiate between the varying types of red wines, however. Which red wine is the darkest? Which one is the driest? Which red wine should I enjoy with a steak dinner? Finding the best red wine food pairings can be hard. Here we list 6 different types of red wines and the foods they pair the best with, so that the next time you’re out with friends or on a date, you can show off your red wine knowledge.
If you’re new to the world of red wine, it’s highly suggested that you start with a nice Merlot. Merlot is positioned in the middle of the red wine spectrum and has a medium body and color. This red wine has notes of red fruits such as cherries and finishes off very smoothly. The great thing about this wine is that it pairs with just about any food you can think of. Being a medium-bodied wine in the middle of the red wine spectrum gives Merlot its versatility. You can pair Merlot with roasted veggies, including tomatoes, poultry such as turkey or duck, lightly-spiced dark meats, and pasta sauces.
Pinot Noir is the most popular light-bodied red wine there is. This red wine pairs well with most dishes because of its rich fruit profile and complexity. You can taste hints of red fruits like strawberries and raspberries, as well as earthy flavors and spices in this wine. It’s high acidity also makes it perfect for pairing with highly acidic foods and sauces. We suggest you try a Pinot Noir with an earthy dish that may include mushrooms or truffles, and meat ranging from duck and chicken to pork and veal, and even salmon.
Zinfandels are very versatile. You can find this type of wine as a red, pink, or white. Red Zinfandels are light-bodied but have a bold taste thanks to their moderate tannins and high acidic levels. While their color is lighter than that of a Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, a red Zinfandel will have a rather high alcohol content level. This dry wine has flavors of berries and jam as well as hot pepper, usually starting out sweet and followed by a tobacco-like smoky finish. We suggest pairing this wine with a barbecue or curry dish. You can pair this wine with most meats and bold flavors.
This medium to full-bodied wine is dry, with a dark, almost inky, purple color. Malbec is popularly grown in Argentina and has flavors of plum and blackberries. The rich and elegant textures in this wine make it perfect for pairing with leaner red meats and lighter cuts such as turkey and pork. Malbec pairs fabulously with dry cheeses, like blue cheese, and is also delicious with spicy and sweet flavors like curry and barbecue.
If you're a fan of red wine, you'll probably enjoy a nice Cabernet Sauvignon from time to time. Cabernet Sauvignon is a dark full-bodied red wine typically known for being the most popular red wine there is. The flavors in this wine vary from plum and black cherry to hints of vanilla, black pepper, and tobacco. The tannins are very high in Cabernet Sauvignon which, mixed with its rich flavors, makes this wine perfect for pairing with thick steaks or chops. This is the perfect red wine to pair with juicy red meat and dishes with heavy flavor.
Syrah, also known as Shiraz, is one of the darkest, full-bodied red wines available. Also having similar tastes of blackberries and black cherries, as well as notes of chocolate and spice, make Syrah a versatile wine. You can pair Syrah with roasted, grilled or smoked meats such as veal, beef, and duck. It's even a great match with barbecue and really compliments just about any type of game. If you're in the mood for hamburgers, this is also a tasty wine choice to match.
The Grill at Quail CornersHere at The Grill, we offer an extensive list of wine, from white to red, options are almost endless. Hopefully, this list helps steer you in the right direction for making good red wine-food pairings, but if you still need a little help, our knowledgeable staff can help. It's also important to remember to pick wine options that you enjoy. Sometimes, just because a particular wine pairs better with your meal, doesn't necessarily mean you'll love it. Use your newfound knowledge to make decisions based off of your preferences and don't be afraid to try something new! The Grill is proud to offer suggestions and wants you to enjoy their food just as much as they do! Connect with The Grill at Quail Corners today or request a reservation to experience Reno fine dining!