What wine goes with burgers?
A proper burger is just steak in casual clothes — fat, char, umami — so it loves red wine. The toppings set the direction: cheese and bacon want bold fruit; mushroom and swiss lean earthier.
California zinfandel
Bold, jammy, peppery
Exuberant dark fruit and a smoky edge match char and caramelized onions perfectly.
Shop California zinfandel from ~$15 · Vivino ↗Affiliate link · prices vary by retailer
Washington merlot
Plush, smooth, dark cherry
Soft tannin and generous fruit — the easygoing match for cheeseburgers.
Shop Washington merlot from ~$14 · Vivino ↗Affiliate link · prices vary by retailer
Sparkling rosé
Dry, fruity, festive
The wildcard: bubbles cut the fat, and the contrast makes both taste better. Great with smash burgers.
Shop Sparkling rosé from ~$15 · Vivino ↗Affiliate link · prices vary by retailer
Sommelier's tip
Blue cheese on the burger? Reach for a riper zin or even a tawny-styled red blend — salt loves sweetness.
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