Bottle and bun – Grape Crush

You have to hand it to the burger. Few foods combine so many flavors into such a unified package. Savory ground beef weeps into a willing, squishy bun. Crisp, uncomplicated lettuce and jaw-tingling pickles stand up to an amalgam of juice-stained bread and well seasoned meat. Punchy ballpark mustard, unctuous mayo and sweet ketchup—each applied independently—join up to create a super-condiment whose collective flavor is the stuff of childhood legend. Even more remarkable, this single sandwich can pair well with all manner of beverages, including a crisp beer, a fizzy Coke, a late-night highball, a creamy milk shake or the right glass of wine.

In general, fruit-forward reds treat a burger better than wines with heavier tannins. Furthermore, a good partner features enough acidity to cut through the wondrous fats, cheese and mayo that make burgers so memorable, but not enough to overpower the experience. Remember to chill the wine slightly, and if reds aren’t doing the trick, work your way through rosés.

Lurton Pinot Noir Domaine des Salices 2007Vin de Pays • $11

Des Salices’ ruby color is instantly inviting, and its floral nose continues the process. Berries and pomegranate dominate, but there’s also a distinct hint of pepper. This light-bodied Pinot features good structure, and its finish is lovely and smooth.

Cline Cashmere 2007Sonoma-Carneros • $14

This might be a little bigger than a burger calls for, but Cline Cashmere’s lush, silky mouthfeel makes for a memorable mate. Medium-bodied with good tannins, it embodies jamminess. The finish is super-smooth.

Altos de la Hoya Monastrell 2006Jumilla • $11

This Spanish Monastrell, better known stateside as Mourvčdre, is a good value wine with lots of promise. Be sure to decant it; you’ll see a change within a half hour if you give it adequate exposure. It features stunning color and brings a nice combo of plums, pepper and earthiness.

Luchador Shiraz 2007South Australia • $14

Off the bat, this wine appeals to fans of zany wine labels, or simply fans of Nacho Libre. Luchador refers to Mexican wrestlers, an ample totem for a wine that’s both fruity and tough. Look for berries, along with wood and a hint of smoke.

Domaine Houchart Rosé 2008Côtes de Provence • $15

If you find that reds seem to clash with rather than complement a burger, try a dry rosé. Medium-pink in color, this particular French rosé is defined more by berries than by tropical fruits as rosés often are. It’s crisp and well balanced with a good, sturdy finish.