9 Wine Pairings to Unveil the Essence of Summer
Discover the Perfect Wine Pairings to Savor the Season's Delights
It’s summer, which means it is also grilling season! Grilling enhances the flavors of various foods, so these specially curated wine pairing suggestions were designed by our Head Winemaker to elevate your grilling and summer dining experiences.
Wine: Cabernet Sauvignon
Grilled Food: Ribeye Steak
Pairing Notes: The bold and tannic Cabernet Sauvignon complements the richness of flavor found in a well-marbled ribeye steak. Since the ribeye is grilled, the smoky charred notes from the grill will harmonize with the Cabernet’s subtle earthy undertones, creating a delightful synergy of flavors.
Wine: Malbec
Grilled Food: Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Pairing Notes: Portobello mushrooms are known for their umami flavor which blends beautifully with the fruitiness of a classic Malbec. Malbec is known for its notes of blackberry, plum and sometimes tobacco all of which will enhance the earthy richness of the grilled mushrooms.
Wine: Chardonnay
Food: Grilled Salmon
Pairing Notes: Chardonnay’s balanced levels of acidity cut through the natural oiliness of salmon, making it a delightfully fresh and crisp pairing. Chardonnay often features citrus flavors and tropical notes of pineapple and mango which serve to contrast the grilled salmon's smoky notes.
Wine: Zinfandel
Grilled Food: BBQ Ribs
Pairing Notes: Zinfandel's bold and robust flavors of dark berries and black pepper complement the rich and smoky flavors of BBQ ribs while the spicy undertones complement any heat in the BBQ sauce. Zinfandel's moderate tannins cut right through the fatty richness of the ribs.
Wine: Syrah (Shiraz)
Grilled Food: Grilled Lamb Chops
Pairing Notes: Grilled lamb chops are a classic Mediterranean dish, and Shiraz, with its origin in the Rhône region of France, is the perfect complement. The peppery and robust characteristics of Syrah create a harmonious balance with the savory flavors in succulent grilled lamb chops. Moderate tannins interact with the protein in the lamb chops which provides a soft mouthfeel as you enjoy this classic pairing.
Wine: Sauvignon Blanc
Grilled Food: Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Pairing Notes: Sauvignon Blanc is known for its vibrant acidity which complements the light and delicate flavors of grilled shrimp. Citrus flavors and notes of grass and green bell pepper in the wine harmonize beautifully with the natural sweetness and subtle brininess of the grilled shrimp.
Wine: Tempranillo
Grilled Food: Grilled Sausages
Pairing Notes: The rustic charm of Tempranillo and its hints of oak embrace the robustness of traditional grilled sausages. The wine's subtly spiced undertones effortlessly complement the various herbs and spices found in sausage forming a harmonious and balanced symphony of flavors. Tempranillo's versatility allows for a wide range of pairings with grilled sausages, from sweet and mild to spicy and smoky.
Wine: Viognier
Food: Grilled Chicken with Peach Salsa
Pairing Notes: Grilled chicken, when seasoned and cooked properly, provides a neutral canvas for the classic flavors of Viognier. Viognier is known for its stone fruit characteristics, such as peach, apricot, and nectarine flavors which result in a harmonious pairing without overwhelming the palate. When the chicken, peach salsa and wine are combined, they come together to create a deliciously juicy symphony of flavors.
Wine: Rosé
Food: Watermelon and Feta Salad
Pairing Notes: The crisp and light nature of Rosé, combined with a juicy and vibrant watermelon, transports your taste buds to a sun-kissed summer paradise with every bite and sip. Rosé has a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of watermelon, while the wine’s zesty acidity balances the richness of the creamy feta cheese. Delicate floral and berry notes in the Rosé offer a playful contrast to the savory and tangy accents of the feta cheese.