Pulled pork is a classic BBQ dish that’s loved by many. It’s juicy, tender, and packed with smoky flavors that make your taste buds dance.
But what’s the best drink to pair with this delicious meat? With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect beverage.
Fear not, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll explore some of the best drink options that complement pulled pork’s rich and tangy flavors.
From aged whiskeys to fruity red wines, we’ll help you find the perfect drink to elevate your pulled pork experience.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive in!
What Drink Goes Good With Pulled Pork?
When it comes to pairing drinks with pulled pork, there are a few options that work particularly well.
If you’re a fan of darker spirits, aged whiskeys and rums are excellent choices. The bold flavors of BBQ pork require a refreshing drink filled with light, airy flavors and a darker spirit base. When topped with soda, the darker spirits add freshness to the meal. A few suggestions include the whiskey-based John Collins, Lynchburg lemonade, or the simple highball. For a rum drink, the Anejo highball–mixed with ginger beer–is a perfect choice. The ginger beer makes this drink the darkest selection of the bunch.
If you prefer wine, there are also some great options to consider. Adjust your pulled pork wine pairing ideas based on the dry rub, but in general, a medium-bodied red with bright, fresh fruits offer a nice compliment to this rich and tangy dish. Think about a nebbiolo-based wine or freisa, a right-bank Bordeaux, or pinot noir. Also, Spanish reds always work well with heat and spice. For whites, you want the wine to have enough acidity and fresh fruit to cut through the richness of the dish. For a Piedmont wine, try a Roero Arneis or even a Langhe Riesling (of course, a riesling from just about anywhere works!)
If you’re looking for something refreshing to balance out the smokiness of pulled pork, consider mixing up a bourbon lemonade. The slightly tart taste of lemons cuts the smokiness of both the bourbon and BBQ. Add a sprig of mint for an even more refreshing take or try adding bourbon to our pineapple and black pepper lemonade recipe.
For those who enjoy pulled pork sandwiches with all the fixings, try finding a wine that complements all of these flavorful components together. How about a still or sparkling rosé? They have enough red wine character to handle the savory meat along with the zip and zing for a vinegar-based slaw. Lambrusco, whether bone-dry or with a touch of sweetness (depending on the sauce you choose), would also be a fun partner with your pulled pork sandwich.
Aged Whiskey: The Classic Pairing For Pulled Pork
One of the classic pairings for pulled pork is aged whiskey. The inherent sweetness of pulled pork makes it a great match for the rich and bold flavors of aged whiskey. Some of the best options for pairing with pulled pork include Stagg Jr or any whiskey from Buffalo Trace. These classic old-time Bourbon whiskies have a true American spirit that complements the dish perfectly.
The sour acidity in aged whiskey from the corn mash cuts through the heavy swaths of caramelized fat in fattier cuts like prime rib or pork belly, creating a delicious balance of flavors. Tennessee bourbon is another great option for sipping neat with a huge, fatty cut of barbecued meat. With its subtle charred oak flavor and notes of vanilla and honeycomb on the palate, it mirrors flavors found in rubs and sauces used to make the best barbecue.
When it comes to pairing aged whiskey with pulled pork, it’s important to choose a bottle that will complement the dish without overpowering it completely. The sweet, buttery nuances of Glen Grant 10-year-old single malt whisky make it an excellent choice for drinking with finely-sliced cured pork loin. This distilled drink complements the slight sweetness of the loin without washing it completely.
Beer: The Refreshing Companion To Pulled Pork
When it comes to pairing beer with pulled pork, there are a few options that work particularly well. The richness of the pulled pork calls for a refreshing drink filled with light, airy flavors. A crisp lager or pilsner is an excellent choice to pair with pulled pork. The crispness of the beer cuts through the richness of the meat, while the lightness of the beer complements the slow-cooked flavors of the pork.
If you prefer something with a little more flavor, try pairing your pulled pork with a scotch ale or porter. These darker beers have bold flavors that can stand up to the intensity of BBQ pork. The smoky notes in both scotch ale and porter complement the smokiness of the meat, making for a delicious pairing.
For those who prefer IPAs, try pairing your pulled pork with a hoppy IPA. The bitterness of the hops can help cut through the richness of the meat, while the fruity notes in the beer can complement any sweet or spicy sauces used in the dish.
Ultimately, when it comes to pairing beer with pulled pork, it’s all about personal preference. Experiment with different styles and find what works best for you. Just remember to choose a refreshing beer that complements the rich flavors of BBQ pork.
Fruity Red Wines: The Perfect Match For Tangy Pulled Pork
If you’re looking for a wine that can stand up to the tanginess of pulled pork, then a fruity red wine is the perfect match. These wines have a bright acidity that cuts through the rich and tangy flavors of the dish, while their fruity notes provide a refreshing contrast.
One great option is a Zinfandel, which has medium to full-bodied with plenty of backbone. This wine has flavors of blackberry and raspberry that pair well with the smoky and spicy flavors of pulled pork. Another option is a Cabernet-blend, which has a bold flavor that can stand up to the richness of the dish.
Sangiovese is another great choice for pulled pork, with its bright acidity and flavors of cherry and plum. This wine pairs well with the tangy flavors of pulled pork, while its tannins help to balance out the richness of the dish. Finally, a GSM Blend (Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre) is a great option for those who want a wine with complex flavors. This blend has notes of blackberry, plum, and spice that complement the tanginess of pulled pork.
Non-Alcoholic Options: Beverages To Enjoy With Pulled Pork
If you’re hosting a party or prefer to skip the alcohol, there are plenty of non-alcoholic options that pair perfectly with pulled pork. A classic option is lemonade, which offers a sweet and tart flavor that complements the BBQ sauce. Another option is dark soda, such as cherry-flavored soda, which adds a sweet flavor to the meal. For a refreshing twist, try mixing ginger beer with cranberry or pineapple juice for a spicy and sweet mocktail. Non-alcoholic whiskey is also available for those who want to enjoy the oaky flavor without the alcohol content. Finally, don’t forget to offer plenty of water to keep your guests hydrated, especially if you’re serving alcohol. Adding fresh fruits and herbs to the water can make it more appealing and festive. Overall, there are plenty of non-alcoholic options that can enhance the flavors of pulled pork and make your meal even more enjoyable.
Experimenting With Other Pairings: Unique Drink Options For Pulled Pork
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new, there are some unique drink options that can pair surprisingly well with pulled pork.
First up, consider a hard cider. The crisp, fruity flavors of a cider can complement the smoky richness of the pork. Look for a dry cider with a bit of tartness to balance out the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
Another option is a sour beer. The tartness of the beer can cut through the fattiness of the pork and provide a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors. Try a Flanders red ale or a Berliner Weisse for a sour beer that pairs well with pulled pork.
If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, consider a ginger beer or ginger ale. The spicy kick of ginger can complement the sweetness and smokiness of the pork. Add a squeeze of lime for some extra brightness.
For those who prefer cocktails, try a mezcal-based drink. Mezcal has a smoky flavor that pairs well with BBQ, and its complexity can stand up to the bold flavors of pulled pork. Mix it with grapefruit juice and a bit of honey syrup for a refreshing twist.
Finally, if you want to go all out, try pairing your pulled pork with a bourbon milkshake. Blend vanilla ice cream, bourbon, and a bit of BBQ sauce for a decadent dessert drink that complements the flavors of the pork.