What’s the best wine to serve with corned beef?

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Dear Dr. Vinny,

What's the best wine to serve with corned beef?

—Ed, New Milford, N.J.

Dear Ed,

Between the salty-fatty yumminess typical of corned beef, and the usual bay leaf and peppercorn flavoring, I’d vote for a light-bodied, fruity red like a Beaujolais or Grenache. On the white wine side, I’d suggest something along the lines of an Alsatian Pinot Blanc or maybe a dry Riesling.

Let me throw in some free beer advice too. Personally, I’d be tempted to reach for a Guinness, but I checked in with my beer-expert friend, and she told me nothing would slake my thirst like the crisp, refreshing style of beer known as Kolsch. She said it has “almost hyperactive carbonation, and an excellent counterpoint to the heaviness of corned beef, colcannon and Irish soda bread” that she knows is sure to be stretching my waistband on St. Patty’s Day.

Need a corned beef recipe? Don’t miss our sweet and savory take on the classic!

—Dr. Vinny

Recently Rated Wines to Pair with Corned Beef

Our expert tasters have reviewed thousands of wines in blind tastings that would match well with corned beef and other favorite Irish foods. Click below to see suggested wines with scores, prices and tasting notes.

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