This icon of North American cuisine is more present than ever, constantly reinventing itself. There are different theories about its origin. But there is no doubt that its name comes from Hamburg, the German port that had an important connection with the United States, the country where this recipe became so popular. We are talking about that piece of crushed ground meat, served between two round buns with different garnishes. The one that, in its modern version and with the influence of fast food, is now usually served with salty French fries and sauces such as ketchup, mustard and mayonnaise. Due to its high fat content, but also because wine and meat are a great complement, we invite you to try the following pairings.

 

• Classic beef burger

A classic beef burger served between two fluffy buns, with lettuce, tomato, onion and their sauces, always works well with a red wine that enhances the flavours of the bun and the beef. Especially when the meat is grilled since it needs a tannic structure (or body) to support it and help balance the fat. Even better if it has some oak aging, so that it adds spiced and smoky notes to each bite. Think of a wine like Marques de Casa Concha Merlot 2017 and Casillero del Diablo Malbec 2019. Juicier varieties like Grenache work very well aswell.

 

• Cheeseburger

When we add pickles and cheese to the classic burger, the mix of flavours will now become a bit tangy and creamier. If we opt for a cheddar, a much juicier wine with vibrant acidity such as Marques de Casa Concha Pinot Noir will be necessary. While, for a stickier cheese, a wine with more tannins like Marques de Casa Concha Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 will help cleanse the palate so you can enjoy every bite without a hitch.

 

• Bacon Burger

Another classic and favourite of many is the burger with smoked bacon. As its name says, it provides notes of smoke but also a lot of salt and more texture and intensity to the flavour of the meat. For this blend, it is suggested to opt for a wine with characteristics similar to the burger, that is, with notes of black fruits, cherries and herbs, meaty aromas and fine-grained tannins, as is the case of Marques de Casa Concha Syrah 2018.

 

• White meat burger

When it comes to white meats such as chicken, turkey or fish that have very little fat, you must move to slightly lighter wines, but without losing sight of the acidity. Even better if it is a barrel-fermented wine, such as Marques de Casa Concha Chardonnay 2019 (fermented in oak barrels between 12 and 15 days), as it will add complexity to the wine with a long and vibrant finish. Ideal to accompany, for example, a fried chicken burger. If you want a twist, a rosé wine like Casillero del Diablo Rosé 2020 made from Syrah will have a little more structure to pair salmon or tuna burgers.

 

• Mushroom burger

One of the most popular vegetarian versions, given its meat-like texture and umami factor, is the use of mushrooms. Sauteed with plenty of black pepper, often accompanied by caramelized onions and melted cheese, this creamy blend is as delicious as it sounds. A red wine with soft tannins, earthy and spiced notes, such as Casillero del Diablo Pinot Noir 2019, with its fresh acidity, soft tannins and great balance, is an excellent combo for this burger.