What to drink with prime rib?

Barbecuing Prime Rib: The Art of Perfect Cooking and Wine

Barbecue season is well underway, and prime rib stands out as one of the great stars of summer grilling. This tender, juicy and refined cut of meat deserves special attention to bring out all its richness and flavor. Here's a guide to mastering prime rib cooking and choosing the ideal wine to accompany it.

Perfectly cooked prime rib

For perfectly cooked prime rib, it's crucial to follow a few key steps:

Preparation and cooking:
Prime rib requires precise cooking to achieve the right balance between a flavorful surface and a tender interior. For optimal cooking, place the meat over very hot coals, but avoid placing it too close to the coals so as not to burn the outside before the inside is well done. In general, allow 7 to 10 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the piece and the desired doneness. To check doneness, use a meat thermometer if necessary. An internal temperature of 52-54°C will give you medium-rare, while 60-63°C will give you medium-rare.

Resting the meat:
Once cooking is complete, let the prime rib rest for about 5 minutes before carving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute in the meat, guaranteeing an even more tender and flavorful texture.

Choosing the Perfect Wine to Enhance Prime Rib

To accompany prime rib, the choice of wine is essential to complement and sublimate the flavors of this dish. Here are three recommendations for wines that go perfectly with this majestic piece of meat:

1. Saint-Estèphe: Château Phélan-Ségur
Château Phélan-Ségur is recognized as one of Saint-Estèphe's finest crus. This wine is the perfect example of elegance and complexity. With a majority of Cabernet Sauvignon (60%), complemented by 30% Merlot and around 10% Cabernet Franc, it offers an intense nose dominated by red fruits. On the palate, its rich, full-bodied tannins provide a solid, yet delicate structure. This wine promises good ageing potential, making it an ideal accompaniment to grilled prime rib. Its red fruit notes blend harmoniously with the richness of the meat, while its robust tannins balance the juicy texture of the prime rib.

2. Cornas: Domaine Vincent Paris, Granit 30
Domaine Vincent Paris' Granit 30 comes from vines located on slopes with a 30% gradient, which contributes to its unique personality. This Cornas boasts a concentrated nose of black fruits and spices, while on the palate it reveals fruity, spicy and peppery flavors with good length. Its tannic structure and complexity make it an ideal companion for prime rib, bringing spicy notes and depth that perfectly complement the richness of the meat.

3. Vosnes-Romanée: Domaine Gros Frère et Sœur
This Vosnes-Romanée wine is a true delight for Pinot Noir enthusiasts. It is characterized by pronounced fruit aromas of strawberry, raspberry, blueberry and blackcurrant. With age, it evolves towards notes of candied fruit, leather and game, adding further complexity. On the palate, this wine is exceptionally round and velvety, blending perfectly with the tender texture of the prime rib. Its smoothness and evolved fruit aromas bring a touch of luxury and sophistication to every bite.

Conclusion: An Unforgettable Gastronomic Experience

To get the most out of your prime rib, it's essential to cook it properly and choose the right wine. By following these tips, you'll guarantee a memorable culinary experience where the tenderness and richness of the meat blend harmoniously with the complex, refined flavors of these great wines. Whether you opt for an elegant Saint-Estèphe, a spicy Cornas or a velvety Vosnes-Romanée, every sip will perfectly complement every bite of your grilled prime rib. Enjoy the barbecue and bon appétit!