Keens Steakhouse, an iconic New York City establishment known for its rich history and unparalleled steak offerings, also boasts a meticulously curated wine menu designed to complement every cut and flavor profile on the plate.
The wine selection at Keens is more than just a beverage list; it’s a thoughtfully crafted experience that elevates dining to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a casual wine lover, the diversity and depth of the wine menu ensure there’s something to satisfy every palate and occasion.
Walking into Keens, guests are greeted by an ambiance steeped in tradition, and the wine menu reflects this heritage with a blend of classic vintages and innovative labels. The sommelier team has invested considerable effort in assembling a list that balances Old World elegance with New World vibrancy.
From robust reds that stand up to Keens’ famously hearty steaks to delicate whites that refresh the palate, each bottle tells a story.
Exploring the wine menu at Keens offers more than just pairing options; it invites guests to embark on a journey through renowned wine regions, rare varietals, and expertly recommended pairings. The menu’s thoughtful organization and detailed descriptions empower diners to make informed choices, ensuring their meal is perfectly complemented.
For those seeking guidance, the knowledgeable staff provide personalized recommendations, making the wine experience as memorable as the food itself.
Classic Red Wines: The Heart of Keens’ Wine Selection
Red wines form the backbone of Keens Steakhouse’s wine menu, perfectly matching the robust flavors of its legendary steaks. This section highlights a range of reds from traditional regions known for their depth and structure.
Whether you prefer the boldness of a Cabernet Sauvignon or the silky elegance of a Pinot Noir, Keens offers a selection that caters to every red wine enthusiast.
The menu features renowned varietals primarily from Napa Valley, Bordeaux, and Tuscany, regions celebrated for producing wines with rich tannins and complex layers. These reds are chosen not only for their flavor profiles but also for their ability to enhance the dining experience with steaks and hearty sides.
The careful aging process and vineyard selection ensure each bottle delivers consistency and exceptional quality.
Signature Cabernet Sauvignons
Cabernet Sauvignon is a natural pairing for steak, and Keens proudly showcases an impressive array of these full-bodied reds. The wines often have notes of blackberry, cassis, and subtle oak, providing a perfect counterpoint to the charred, juicy steaks.
- Caymus Vineyards Napa Valley: Known for its lush fruit and velvety texture, this wine is a favorite for those seeking richness and smooth tannins.
- Chateau Montelena Estate: A classic Napa Cabernet with balanced acidity and hints of cedar and black currant.
- Silver Oak Alexander Valley: Offers a blend of power and elegance with complex layers of dark fruit and vanilla.
“A well-chosen Cabernet at Keens can transform a meal into a celebration of flavor and tradition,” says the head sommelier.
Pinot Noir and Merlot Selections
For those looking for a lighter red wine option, Keens features exquisite Pinot Noir and Merlot bottles that provide softer tannins and vibrant fruit notes. These wines are ideal for diners who prefer elegance over intensity but still desire a red that complements beef.
Pinot Noir selections often come from Oregon and Burgundy, showcasing aromas of cherry, earth, and spice. Merlot options emphasize plush plum flavors and a smooth finish, perfect for those who want a less tannic but equally flavorful experience.
- Willamette Valley Pinot Noir: Known for its bright acidity and red fruit character.
- Chateau Pétrus Merlot: A luxurious French Merlot with depth and complexity.
- Duckhorn Vineyards Merlot: Rich and velvety with notes of blackberry and mocha.
White Wines: Brightness and Balance on the Menu
While steak and red wine are a classic pairing, Keens’ white wine offerings bring balance and versatility to the table. This section emphasizes whites that can either cleanse the palate or provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the meal.
The white wine list at Keens includes crisp Chardonnays, aromatic Sauvignon Blancs, and elegant Rieslings sourced from both Old and New World vineyards. These wines showcase a range of flavor profiles, from buttery and oaky to bright and mineral-driven, catering to a diverse set of preferences.
Chardonnay Highlights
Chardonnay selections at Keens offer both traditional and modern styles, perfect for diners who appreciate the complexity that this varietal can deliver. Some are aged in oak barrels to provide creamy textures, while others focus on showcasing pure fruit and acidity.
- Sonoma Coast Chardonnay: Exhibits notes of green apple, citrus, and subtle vanilla.
- Meursault, Burgundy: A refined French Chardonnay with layers of toasted almond and butter.
- Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve: A crowd-pleaser with ripe tropical fruit and a smooth finish.
“A well-chosen Chardonnay can highlight the nuances of a meal, creating harmony between food and wine,” notes Keens’ wine director.
Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling
Sauvignon Blancs on the menu offer zesty citrus and grassy notes, ideal for lighter appetizers or seafood dishes served alongside the main course. Rieslings provide a spectrum from dry to off-dry, bringing floral aromas and a touch of sweetness that can contrast beautifully with spicy or rich flavors.
- Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc: A New Zealand classic with vibrant acidity and tropical fruit.
- Dr. Loosen Riesling: A German Riesling with crisp minerality and subtle sweetness.
- Pascal Jolivet Sancerre: French Sauvignon Blanc with refreshing citrus and flinty undertones.
Rare and Vintage Wines: Treasures for the Connoisseur
For guests seeking an extraordinary wine experience, Keens offers a selection of rare and vintage bottles that represent the pinnacle of winemaking. These wines often come from limited production runs and have been carefully cellared to develop complex profiles over time.
These exclusive wines are perfect for special occasions, offering depth and character that can only be achieved through years of aging. Collectors and enthusiasts will appreciate the meticulous provenance and tasting notes provided by the staff, ensuring the wine’s history and qualities are fully understood.
Legendary Bordeaux and Burgundy
The rare wine list includes sought-after vintages from Bordeaux and Burgundy, two regions synonymous with prestige and aging potential. These wines often feature intricate aromas of earth, leather, and dark fruit, with a structure that evolves beautifully in the glass.
| Wine | Region | Vintage | Tasting Notes |
| Château Lafite Rothschild | Bordeaux | 2005 | Elegant, with blackcurrant, cedar, and subtle spice |
| Domaine de la Romanée-Conti | Burgundy | 1999 | Complex layers of cherry, earth, and mineral |
| Château Margaux | Bordeaux | 2000 | Powerful, with plum, tobacco, and floral notes |
Exclusive New World Finds
In addition to Old World treasures, Keens also highlights rare New World wines from California, Australia, and South America. These wines showcase bold fruit and innovative winemaking techniques, offering a modern twist on classic styles.
Selections include cult Cabernets, limited-release Syrahs, and boutique blends that appeal to adventurous palates. Each bottle is accompanied by detailed descriptions and pairing suggestions, ensuring diners get the most from their investment.
“Our rare wines provide an exceptional opportunity to taste history and craftsmanship in each glass,” explains Keens’ cellar master.
Sparkling and Rosé Wines: Celebratory and Versatile
Keens’ wine menu also features a refined selection of sparkling and rosé wines that add a festive touch to any meal. These wines are perfect for toasting special moments or simply refreshing the palate between courses.
The sparkling wines range from classic Champagne to artisanal sparkling varieties from lesser-known regions. Rosés offer a spectrum of styles, from dry and crisp to fruity and floral, catering to varied preferences and enhancing the dining experience.
Champagne and Other Sparklers
Keens offers a thoughtfully curated Champagne list, including both vintage and non-vintage options. These wines are celebrated for their fine bubbles, balanced acidity, and elegant complexity.
- Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label: A vibrant and consistent favorite with notes of brioche and apple.
- Bollinger Special Cuvée: Known for depth and richness, ideal for pairing with rich dishes.
- Ruinart Blanc de Blancs: Delicate and fresh, highlighting citrus and floral aromas.
Rosé Selections
Rosés on the menu bring bright acidity and refreshing fruit flavors, making them versatile accompaniments for both light starters and heartier fare. These wines are sourced from Provence, California, and Spain, showcasing diverse styles.
- Château d’Esclans Whispering Angel: A dry Provençal rosé with strawberry and citrus notes.
- Whispering Angel Rosé: Crisp and elegant with a clean finish.
- Miraval Rosé: Floral and fresh, known for balance and finesse.
Pairing Recommendations: Matching Wine with Keens’ Menu
Understanding how to pair wine with Keens’ signature dishes is essential to unlocking the full potential of the dining experience. The sommelier team provides expert guidance on matching wines to steaks, sides, and appetizers, ensuring harmony between flavors.
Each wine is selected to complement specific cuts of meat, sauces, and seasoning styles, enhancing both the wine’s character and the dish’s impact. Guests are encouraged to experiment with pairings to discover personal favorites.
Steak and Red Wine Pairings
Robust reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec are ideal for the heavier, fattier cuts of steak such as ribeye and porterhouse. Their tannins cut through the richness, while the dark fruit notes amplify the meat’s savoriness.
- Ribeye: Best paired with a bold Napa Cabernet or an Argentine Malbec.
- Filet Mignon: Softer reds like Merlot or Pinot Noir highlight the tenderness without overpowering.
- New York Strip: Pairs well with a Bordeaux blend or Syrah.
White Wine Pairings
For lighter dishes or seafood accompaniments, white wines such as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc offer refreshing contrasts. Their acidity helps cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Seafood Starter: Sauvignon Blanc or dry Riesling.
- Chicken or Pork Side: Oaked Chardonnay or Viognier.
- Salads: Crisp Rosé or light Pinot Grigio.
“Pairing is an art and a personal journey; our staff encourages guests to explore and enjoy,” says Keens’ head sommelier.
By-the-Glass Options: Flexibility and Exploration
Keens understands that not every guest wants to commit to a full bottle, which is why the wine menu includes an extensive by-the-glass selection. This allows diners to sample a variety of wines or enjoy a perfect pour with their meal without excess.
The by-the-glass list rotates seasonally, featuring both crowd-pleasers and unique finds. It offers a balance of reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling options, making it easy to discover new favorites or stick with trusted classics.
Seasonal Rotations
The seasonal nature of the by-the-glass program means Keens continually introduces fresh and interesting wines. This keeps the menu dynamic and responsive to current trends and guest preferences.
- Summer months highlight crisp whites and rosés perfect for lighter fare.
- Winter selections lean towards fuller-bodied reds and richer whites.
- Special events often feature limited-time pours of rare or exclusive wines.
Benefits of By-the-Glass Selection
Choosing wine by the glass is not only convenient but encourages experimentation without the pressure of a full bottle. It also pairs well with multi-course meals where different wines can be enjoyed alongside each dish.
- Ideal for solo diners or couples exploring pairings.
- Allows for tasting flights curated by the sommelier.
- Affords flexibility in budget and preference.
Conclusion: Elevating the Steakhouse Experience Through Wine
The wine menu at Keens Steakhouse is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to excellence and guest satisfaction. It goes beyond merely offering bottles for sale; it crafts a narrative that enriches every meal, celebrating both the artistry of winemaking and the culinary mastery of steak preparation.
With a diverse selection encompassing classic reds, vibrant whites, rare vintages, sparkling delights, and flexible by-the-glass options, Keens ensures that every diner finds the perfect wine to suit their taste and occasion.
The attentive and knowledgeable staff further enhance this experience, guiding guests through the complexities of wine choice with warmth and expertise.
Ultimately, the Keens wine menu embodies the spirit of tradition and innovation, inviting guests to savor not only outstanding steak but also the nuanced pleasures of thoughtfully paired wine. Whether savoring a robust Cabernet with a porterhouse or refreshing the palate with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, the wine experience at Keens is integral to its enduring reputation as a premier steakhouse destination.
