There are myriad preparation methods for that most iconic of foods which we call “beef.” Different cuts of this definitive red meat must be treated differently as discrete aspects of the animal provide varying ratios of proteins and fats which make them ideal for or adverse to a variety of cooking methods. Even how the animal was pasteurized and fed may shift how the chef should serve a similar cut from disparate animals.
Even among steaks there is huge variation, and how well the final product is received hinges on the maker knowing how to prepare each varietal based sometimes on the minutiae of marbling, thickness, and presence of bone.
Take, for example, the tomahawk steak. By any other name, this is a rib eye, or an intercostal cut of succulent and tender meat from the rib section of the animal. A tomahawk – so named because it resembles the delicate, long-handled hatchets favored by many Turtle Island tribes – is the same cut of meat, however uniquely maintains a handle of rib bone which expands the possibilities of its preparation.
These are big, grill-friendly steaks that offer a unique flavor and texture which is in part thanks to the presence of bone marrow during the cooking process. And this one-of-a-kind beefeating experience has one singular wine pairing to go with it.
How to pair wine with your cote du boeuf
If you google “what wine goes with tomahawk steak,” the answer is a resounding CABERNET SAUVIGNON!
Dry, heavy-bodied reds are already an ideal pairing for red meat, as their flavors won’t buckle in the presence of a bold cut of lamb or beef. And Cab Sauvs are a special case in the world of wines as they uniquely strike a balance between big tannin content, a heavy body, and relatively high acidity, making them overqualified to meet the challenge of a really fatty steak – which is exactly what the tomahawk is.
So let’s look at a few of the choicest Cabernets we have in the Argaux collection.
Best wine for tomahawk steak
- 2019 Origin Bates Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon – $78
This wine lets you know what it’s for right away with that beautiful bully label. And by no means is that where this bottle’s magic ends. We’re serious when we say this one is a sipper, as you’re going to want to savor this deep, dark red to the very last drop.
Black velvet in a bottle, spiced with dark fruits, pepper and violets, this smooth, smooth vino is almost as tender as your long-bone steak promises to be. So light up the grill, grab a bottle of this beautiful wine, and get ready to have your mind blown.
- 2019 Wonderland Project No. 9 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon – $50
From the heart of California wine country comes this delectable testament to the genre to delight your senses and uplift any bovine feasts you have laid before you. Deep and jammy, the No. 9 has a sophisticated earthy flavor and a rich texture that feels like lounging in a vintage study while wearing a velvet bathrobe. You know?
An unpretentious bottle, have this wine with your cote du boef, steak tartare, or a medium-well cheeseburger and fries.
- 2017 Anomaly Vineyards Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon – $160
Strictly for candle-lit dinners with only your absolute favorite humans on the planet. Now or in 20 years, it’s difficult to imagine a scenario in which this zesty, spicy, meaty, fruity Cab doesn’t wow.
Be sure to decant this beautiful bottle at least 1 hour before serving alongside a bone-in ribeye with savory blackcurrant sauce.
- 2019 Land of Saints Happy Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon – $27
We’re telling you to have this wine with tomahawk steak, but know that if we could turn it into jelly and have it on french toast, we would. That’s not a bad idea, actually.
This wine has a delightfully savory undertone that fronts Cab Sauv’s signature bell pepper palate behind classic violet, chocolate, and strawberry. This is the one to take to your summer grill sessions, and serve next to ribeye, veggie skewers, and a cute charcuterie board.
- 2013 Mirror Oak Knoll District Cabernet Sauvignon MAGNUM – $215
For your discerning guests who like an extra-heavy pour. The nose on this wine is like an autumnal potpourri with aromas of rose, ripe blackberries, cedar, and currants. The palate follows with an array of black and red fruits, baking spices, and the darkest of chocolate.
Pairs with burgers, ribs, pasta dishes, and of course the mighty tomahawk.
What Argaux has to offer
We leaned into the Cab Sauv side of things pretty heavily in this article. And we understand that this dry, savory varietal is not a sure match for everyone’s tasting sensibilities. If this is true for you, have no fear. We do in fact have other bottles available within our cellars.
In addition to our wide selection of small-batch wines, Argaux offers a number of curated kits and collections to tickle all manner of palates and to suit all kinds of gatherings – from golf tournaments, to beach days, to cozy weekends on the couch curled up next to a bag of corn chips. Choose from our blind tasting and food pairing kits, travel packs, wedding boxes, natural packs and more for a surprising and delicious selection. (Keep in mind you can always specify ‘no Cab Sauv’ at checkout.)
Or, if you want a more personalized experience, get in touch with our team of sommeliers for a specific suggestion.
Cheers!
