Dad’s Drinks Pairings: The Perfect Wine & Beer Matches for Steak and Seafood This Father’s Day

Father’s Day is just around the corner, and if there’s one thing Dad deserves, it’s a meal that feels as special as he is. Whether your family tradition is firing up the barbecue, hosting a hearty dinner at home, or treating Dad to a seafood feast, the right drink pairing takes the celebration to the next level.

This year, why not go beyond the standard gift and create a Father’s Day feast paired perfectly with Dad’s favourite drinks? From bold reds with ribeye to crisp lagers with lobster, here’s our guide to the ultimate wine and beer pairings for steak and seafood.

🍷 Steak & Red Wine: A Match Made for Dad

If Dad’s a steak-lover, you can’t go wrong with a bottle of red. The rich marbling of beef pairs beautifully with bold wines that cut through the fat and bring out smoky, savoury flavours.

• Ribeye + Shiraz: The juiciness of ribeye steak is balanced by the peppery spice of an Australian Shiraz. A classic Father’s Day pairing that feels big and bold.

• Sirloin + Cabernet Sauvignon: Cabernet’s tannins complement leaner cuts like sirloin, enhancing the steak’s natural flavour without overpowering it.

• Beef Ribs + Malbec: For slow-cooked or barbecued beef ribs, Malbec brings a fruity depth that lifts smoky, sticky flavours.

👉 Pro tip: If Dad prefers beer with his steak, go for a robust stout or a hoppy IPA – both stand up to the richness of grilled beef.

🍤 Seafood & White Wine: Crisp, Fresh, and Perfect for Summer

Seafood deserves a lighter touch, and nothing says Father’s Day long lunch like a chilled glass of white wine alongside the freshest catch.

• Lobster + Chardonnay: A buttery Chardonnay mirrors the richness of lobster, making every bite feel indulgent.

• Prawns + Sauvignon Blanc: Fresh prawns with zesty lemon need a crisp, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc – it’s refreshing and keeps the flavours clean.

• Grilled Snapper + Pinot Grigio: A light white wine with hints of pear and apple complements delicate white fish without overpowering it.

👉 Beer-lovers? Pair Dad’s seafood platter with a pale ale or pilsner. Both are crisp and refreshing, balancing out the saltiness of oysters, prawns, and grilled fish.

🍺 Surf & Turf Pairings: The Best of Both Worlds

Why choose between steak and seafood when you can give Dad both? Surf & Turf is the ultimate Father’s Day feast, and the drink pairings are just as exciting.

• Steak & Lobster + Sparkling Wine: Bubbles cut through the richness of both beef and shellfish, making it a versatile, celebratory pairing.

• Scotch Fillet & Garlic Prawns + Amber Ale: Malty amber ales bridge the gap between charred beef and garlicky prawns, making every bite feel balanced.

🥂 Raise a Glass to Dad

However Dad likes to dine – whether it’s a sizzling steak, fresh seafood, or a combination of both – the right wine or beer pairing makes it a meal to remember. This Father’s Day, skip the socks and ties and serve up a feast made for pairing with his favourite drink.