Wine List

• Episode 21 Wine Pairings

  • Summer Corn Pancakes topped with Baby Scallops and Shrimp, Maple Cream and Brown Sugar Bacon Crumble

    I recommend:   2008 Montes Alpha Chardonnay, Casablanca Valley (750ml)

    Country: Chile

    Region: Casablanca Valley

    Grape Varietal: Chardonnay Direct, polished version, with solid apple, fig and piecrust notes that stay focused on the floral-tinged finish.

    
    

    Seared Shrimp with Cauliflower Puree

    I recommend:  Sauvignon Blanc

    Sauvignon Blanc is a green-skinned  grape variety which originates from the Bordeaux region of France. The grape gets its name from the French word sauvage ("wild") and blanc ("white") due to its early origins as an indigenous grape in Southwest France.  It is not clear that sauvignon blanc originated in the southwest of France. It is possibly a descendant of savagnin. It is now planted in many of the world's wine regions producing a crisp, dry, and refreshing white varietal wine.  Sauvignon Blanc is widely cultivated in France, Chile, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Brazil, Moldova and California.

    
    

    Heirloom Tomatoes with Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing

    I recommend: Rijoa

    Rioja is a wine  named after La Rioja in Spain and is a clear, red wine.

    Rioja red wines are classified into four categories. The first, simply labeled "Rioja," is the youngest, spending less than a year in an oak aging barrel.  A "crianza" is wine aged for at least two years, at least one of which was in oak. "Rioja Reserva" is aged for at least three years, of which at least one year is in oak. Finally, "Rioja Gran Reserva" wines have been aged at least two years in oak and three years in bottle. Reserva and Gran Reserva wines are not necessarily produced each year. Also produced are wines in a semi-crianza style, those that have had a couple of months oak influence but not enough to be called a full crianza. The designation of crianza, Reserva etc. might not always appear on the front label but may appear on a neck or back label in the form of a stamp designation known as Consejo.

    
    

    Jamaican Coffee Brownies with Pecans

    An outstanding finish to any meal! I recommend: 2006 L'Ecole No. 41 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla (750ml)

    The 2006 Perigee Seven Hills Vineyard is 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Franc. Dark ruby/purple-colored, it has an alluring perfume of pain grille, pencil lead, mineral, violets, black currant, and blackberry liqueur. Elegant and seamless on the palate, it has superb depth, concentration, and incipient complexity

    
    
• Episode 20 Wine Pairings

  • Grass-Fed Beef Tenderloin with Shitakes and Tarragon-Marsala Sauce

    This is a very flavorful and extremely tender cut of meat. I recommend: 

    2007 Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville (750ml)

    Bright and ruby red. The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville (94% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Cabernet Franc) has deep black currant fruit as well as notes of lead pencil shavings, camphor, and spice. It is medium to full-bodied, elegant, and rich from beginning to end, with outstanding purity, depth, and texture.

    
    

    Chocolate Pots de Crème

    With this elegant and decandent chocolate dessert I recommend: 

    Gould Campbell 10 Year Old Tawny Port, Douro (750ml)

    Country: Portugal

    Region: Douro

    Grape Varietal: Port An attractively dry style of wine, with a concentrated inner core of firm acid and lightly burnt flavors. It has intensity, along with good fruitiness. This lesser brand of the Symington group is worth seeking out, both for its quality and for its good value." 90 Points, Wine Enthusiast

    
    
• Episode 19 Wine Pairings

  • Portabello Fries

    I recommend: 

    2008 Lemelson Pinot Noir Thea's Selection, Willamette (750ml)

    Country: USA

    Region: Oregon

    Sub-Region: Willamette

    Grape Varietal: Pinot Noir

    The 2008 Pinot Noir Thea’s Selection exhibits a slightly roasted character along with notes of cedar, underbrush, clove, and black cherry. On the palate it has excellent grip, considerable density, savory flavors, and a forward personality. Although it has the ability to evolve for 1-2 years, it can be approached now and over the next 6-8 years.

    
    
• Episode 17 Wine Pairings

  • BLT Bites

    With these delightful BLT appetizers I recommend:  2007 John Duval Shiraz Entity, Barossa (750ml)

    The purple-colored 2007 Entity Shiraz spent 17 months in 30% new French oak, the balance in seasoned French and American oak. It displays an alluring nose of wood smoke, game, meat blood, Asian spices, and blueberry. Ripe and sweetly-fruited, this plush effort conceals enough structure to evolve for another 2-3 years. Drink this classy offering from 2012 to 2022.

     

    
    

    Cumin-Crusted Monster Pork Chops

    I recommend: Rijoa

    Rioja is a wine  named after La Rioja in Spain and is a clear, red wine.

    Rioja red wines are classified into four categories. The first, simply labeled "Rioja," is the youngest, spending less than a year in an oak aging barrel.  A "crianza" is wine aged for at least two years, at least one of which was in oak. "Rioja Reserva" is aged for at least three years, of which at least one year is in oak. Finally, "Rioja Gran Reserva" wines have been aged at least two years in oak and three years in bottle. Reserva and Gran Reserva wines are not necessarily produced each year. Also produced are wines in a semi-crianza style, those that have had a couple of months oak influence but not enough to be called a full crianza. The designation of crianza, Reserva etc. might not always appear on the front label but may appear on a neck or back label in the form of a stamp designation known as Consejo.

    
    

    Strawberry-Tarragon Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

    I recommend: Merlot

    Merlot is a red wine grape that is used as both a blending grape and for varietal wines. The name Merlot is thought to derive from the Old French word for young blackbird, merlot, a diminutive of merle, the blackbird, probably from the color of the grape. Merlot-based wines usually have medium body with hints of berry, plum and currant. 

     

     

    
    

    Rasberry S'mores

    With these unique and light confections I recommend: 

    2008 Chateau Ste. Michelle-Dr. Loosen Eroica Riesling, Columbia (750ml)

    Country: USA

    Region: Washington State

    Sub-Region: Columbia

    Grape Varietal: Riesling This lively, refreshing wine has a delicately sweet edge to its pear and floral flavors, lingering effectively on the focused finish. 90 points - Wine Spectator - February 28, 2010

     

    
    
• Episode 15 Wine Pairings

  • Arugula and Toasted Bread with Burrata

    I recommend:  2008 Merryvale Chardonnay Starmont, Napa (750ml)

    Fresh and vibrant, with a full-bodied mix of tangerine, nectarine, peach and pear flavors that are intense, complex, layered and cleansing. This holds on to its core fruitiness. Drink now through 2013

    
    

    Cabbage Cheddar Chowder

    With this rich, thick chowder I recommend: 2009 Mollydooker Shiraz Blue Eyed Boy, McLaren Vale (750ml)

    The 2009 Blue Eyed Boy Shiraz is a 20% Langhorne Creek and 80% McLaren Vale blend matured in 71% new and 29% 1 year American oak. Very deep garnet-purple colored, it is profoundly scented of blueberry and black cherry with touches of mint, mocha and the faintest whiff of damp loam. Very full-bodied, the bold, ultra-ripe fruit is well supported by medium-firm chewy tannins and medium-high acid, leading to a very long and pure if slightly warm finish.

    
    

    Moroccan Chicken with Almond Couscous

    I recommend:  2007 Trinchero Cabernet Sauvignon Haystack Vineyard, Napa (750ml)

    Country: USA Region: California Sub-Region: Napa Grape Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon A wonderful Cabernet, rich and dry. The alcohol is fairly high, but in keeping with the wine's power. The fruity blackberry and currant flavors are balanced by refreshingly earthy notes of olives and sweet herbs.

    
    

    Fresh Fruit on Golden Cookies with Sweet Mascarpone

    With this classic dessert I recommend: Chateau Rieussec Sauternes 2005

    A perfect dessert  wine!  Full yellow-gold. Expressive aromas of pineapple, coconut, sweet vanillin oak and spices. Then wonderfully thick, fat and sweet, with the exotic coconut character carrying through in the mouth. Finishes saline and powerful, with palate-staining flavors of pineapple, coconut and spicy oak. Conveys a strong impression of solidity.

    
    
• Episode 14 Wine Pairings

  • Toasted Pimiento Cheese & Ham Bites

    With these delectible savory little bites I recommend: Cabernet Sauvignon

    Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the world's most widely recognized red wine grape varieties. It is grown in nearly every major wine producing country.

    Pick your favorite "cab" and enjoy!

    
    

    Firecracker Spinach Salad With Orange Sesame Dressing

    I recommend: Riesling

    Riesling is a white  grape variety which originated in the Rhine region of Germany. Riesling is an aromatic grape variety displaying flowery, almost perfumed, aromas as well as high acidity. It is used to make dry, semi-sweet, sweet and sparkling white wines.

    
    

    Seared Salmon

    With this light and tasty entre I recommend: 

    2008 Siduri Pinot Noir Garys' Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands (750ml)

    In the mouth this Pinot Noir has a complex interplay with concentrated cherry, raspberry, and blackberry fruits. These are joined by a forest floor character.

    Size	750ml
    Varietal	Pinot Noir
    Year	2008
    Region	Santa Rita Hills
    County	Santa Barbara
    State	California

    
    

    Fresh Apple Cake

    I recommend:  Inniskillin Riesling Ice Wine 375ML   

    Inniskillin Icewine, recognized as one of the world's finest specialty wines, is truly a gift from nature to wine lovers. Harvested at the pinnacle of Canada's crisp winter, exceptional grapes are naturally frozen on the vine and hand picked when the temperature drops below –10°C. The removal of ice crystals, separated from the frozen grapes during pressing, concentrates the juice into a delicate nectar that is expertly guided through fermentation to achieve the rich and alluring specialty known as Icewine.

    
    
• Episode 13 Wine Pairings

  • Bacon Wrapped Scallops with Fried Sage and Brie Cream Sauce

    With these delightful bites I recommend: Burgundy

    Burgundy wine is wine made  in the Burgundy  region in eastern France, in the valleys and slopes west of the Saone River, a tributary of the Rhone. The most famous wines produced here - those commonly referred to as "Burgundies" - are red wines made from  Pinot Noir  grapes or white wines made from Chardonay grapes.

    
    

    Caramelized Onion Tarts With Apples

    I recommend:  2008 Columbia Crest Merlot H3 Horse Heaven, Columbia (750ml

    Vintage: 2008
    Size: 750ML
    Type: Wine
    Country: United States
    Region: Washington
    Winery: Columbia Crest
    Varietal: Merlot

    
    Ripe, supple and seductive, delivering a plush mouthful of red berry, floral and pomegranate flavors, swirling effectively through the deftly balanced finish. Drink now through 2016.
    
    

     

     

    
    

    Kentucky Hot Browns

    I recommend: 2009 Seghesio Zinfandel, Sonoma (750ml)

    Wild berry patch aromas and scents of freshly baked bread. Desired varietal markers of raspberries, blackberries and Zin's briary spiciness reflect the excellent 2009 vintage. Zin's ever-present acidity enhances the finish and fine, dusty tannins add complexity, mouthfeel and structure. Layered nuances of flavor with cracked pepper, tilled soil and a hint of creamy oak. Characteristic synergy of components – balanced and elegantly structured.

    
    

    Grilled Tenderloin Medallions with Argentine Chimichurri

    With these tender succulent morsels I recommend: 2009 Achaval Ferrer Malbec, Mendoza (750ml) 
    

     

    The purple-colored 2009 Malbec is sensational for an entry-level wine. It gives up an alluring nose of wood smoke, Asian spices, floral notes, black cherry, and black raspberry. Layered, smooth-textured, and plush, this is a mouth-coating effort that is ready to drink but that will continue to deliver satisfaction for another 6-8 years.

     

     

    
    

    Mini S’more Parfait

    I recommend:   2007 Beaulieu Vineyard Tapestry, Napa (750ml)

    Classic black-ruby color typical of this blend. Ripe, brambly, coffee and black cherry aromas showcase the varietal, while black olive and dark cocoa scents suggest the wine’s Rutherford origin. Medium full-body and firm structure dominant, with the cherry-plum and herb Merlot adding nuance in the finish. Chewy tannins, fine minerality, with vanilla oak-spice adding an elegant touch of sweetness.

    
    
• Episode 12 Wine Pairings

  • Turkey, Cranberry & Fontina Mini-Panini

    To accompany these tasty and delicious mini bites I recommend:  2008 Belle Glos Pinot Noir Taylor Lane Vineyard, Sonoma Coast (750ml)

    Dense, dark ruby color. The aromas of dense berry pie filling, bright cherry and light smoke notes saturate the nose. The flavors are abundant yet extremely focused and refined...cherries, chocolate, caramel...this is an excellent food wine with a full mouth feel and balanced acidity leading to a long finish.

    
    

    Roast Prime Rib of Beef with Horseradish Crust

    This is a delicious and robust entre and I recommend: 2007 Antica Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa (750ml)

    Country: United States

    State: California

    Region: Napa Valley

    District: Napa Valley

    Type: Still Wine

    Color: Red

    Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon

    Vintage: 2007

    This 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts a dense purple color along with a rich, sumptuous bouquet of licorice, creme de cassis, and smoky oak. This opulent, fleshy, full-bodied wine exhibits beautiful purity and concentrated fruit. It should age nicely for 15-20 years. Impressive ... and reasonably priced!

     

    
    

    Cookies from Janet Keeler's St. Pete Times cookbook "Cookielicious"

    These mouthwatering cookies are crisp and light and I recommend:   Riesling

    Riesling is a white grape which originated in the Rhine region of Germany. Riesling is an aromatic grape variety displaying  flowery, almost perfumed, aromas as well as high acidity. It is used to make dry, semi-sweet, sweet and sparkling white wines.

    
    
• Episode 11 Wine Pairings

  • Tomato and Corn Pizza

    As a companion to these crispy and light appetizers, I recommend:  Merlot 

    Merlot-based wines usually have a medium body, with hints of berry, plum and currant. 

     

    
    
• Episode 10 Wine Pairings

  • Pumpkin Ravioli and Brown Sage Butter

    For this delicious savory pasta dish I recommend: 2008 Casa Lapostolle Chardonnay Cuvee Alexandre, Casablanca Valley (750ml)

    Region:	Chile, Casablanca
    Grape:	Chardonnay
    Type:	White Wine
    Vintage:	2008

    "A ripe, juicy, flattering style, with pear, apple and fig fruit framed by nicely integrated piecrust and brioche notes. The long finish lets a hazelnut hint chime in. Drink now. 9,932 cases made."

    
    
• Episode 9 Wine Pairings

  • Fish en Papillote

    For this wonderful entre I recommend:    Cakebread Cellars Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley 2008

    This Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc displays a beautifully fragrant nose of ripe pomelo, Golden delicious apple, honeydew melon, lime and mineral, with little of the herbaceousness that sometimes characterizes the variety. On the fleshy, full-bodied palate, ripe melon, grapefruit, kiwi and lemon-lime flavors lead to a long, flavorful finish enlivened by bright mineral tones. “Golden” and “sun-kissed” are words that pop to mind when sipping this delicious Sauvignon Blanc, which makes both a wonderful apèritif and a delectable companion to simply prepared seafood, poultry and vegetarian entrees.

    
    

    Molten Chocolate Cakes

    I recommend a world renowned port to compliment this rich chocolate confection:   Warre Port Tawny 20 Year

    Warre’s 20 Year Old has all the classic hallmarks of Old Tawny, namely a rich tawny colour, delicious soft raisiny fruit, a glorious nutty bouquet, superb balance and a long lingering finish.
    
    

    
    
• Top 100 Wine Spectator

  • Recommended Wines-Top 100

    The Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines

    The Wine Spectator produces its Top 100 Wines on an annual basis. Below are the Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines of 2010, in rank order (i.e. the 'top' wine at the head of the list) with their scores. Each wine is clickable to provide an example of a search using Wine-Searcher.

    You may also be interested in the Wine Spectator 100-point wines.

    Vintage	Wine	Score
    2007	Saxum James Berry Vineyard Paso Robles	98
    2008	Two Hands Shiraz Barossa Valley Bella’s Garden	94
    2008	Peter Michael Chardonnay Sonoma County Ma Belle-Fille	97
    2007	Revana Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena	97
    2007	Altamura Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley	96
    2008	Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir Russian River Valley	94
    2008	Schild Shiraz Barossa	94
    2007	Fontodi Colli della Toscana Centrale Flaccianello	95
    2007	CARM Douro Reserva	94
    2009	Clos des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape White	95
    2006	Mount Eden Vineyards Chardonnay Santa Cruz Mountains	96
    2008	Kosta Browne Pinot Noir Russian River Valley	94
    2006	Alban Syrah Edna Valley Alban Estate Reva	97
    2007	Dow Vintage Port	100
    2007	Schrader Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley CCS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard	100
    2007	Staglin Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford 25th Anniversary Selection	98
    2008	Tensley Syrah Santa Barbara County Colson Canyon Vineyard	95
    2006	Hall Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley	94
    2007	Coho Headwaters Napa Valley	95
    2007	Carlisle Zinfandel Russian River Valley Papera Ranch	96
    2006	Ridge Chardonnay Santa Cruz Mountains Monte Bello	95
    2007	Quinta do Vallado Douro Reserva	96
    2008	Owen Roe Syrah Yakima Valley Red Willow Vineyard Chapel Block	97
    2007	Maybach Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Materium Weitz Vineyard	98
    2007	Ruffino Toscana Modus	96
    2005	Bodegas Resalte de Penafiel Ribera del Duero Crianza	94
    2008	Aubert Chardonnay Sonoma Coast Ritchie Vineyard	96
    2006	The Royal Tokaji Wine Co. Tokaji Aszu 5 Puttonyos Red Label	94
    2006	Zaca Mesa Syrah Santa Ynez Valley	93
    2007	Ramey Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Annum	95
    2004	Terralsole Brunello di Montalcino Riserva	96
    2008	Evening Land Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills Seven Springs Vineyard La Source	96
    2007	Tablas Creek Esprit de Beaucastel Paso Robles	94
    2007	Pride Merlot Sonoma-Napa Counties	94
    2007	Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape Hommage a Jacques Perrin Grande Cuvee	99
    2006	Zenato Amarone della Valpolicella Classico	94
    2008	Bedrock The Bedrock Heirloom Sonoma Valley	95
    2004	Hijos de Antonio Barcelo Ribera del Duero Vina Mayor Reserva	93
    2007	Domaine Le Colombier Vacqueyras Cuvee G.	92
    2007	Viticcio Chianti Classico Riserva	93
    2006	Goose Ridge Vireo Columbia Valley	93
    2008	Craggy Range Pinot Noir Martinborough Te Muna Road Vineyard	93
    2007	Columbia Crest Merlot Horse Heaven Hills H3	91
    2006	Bodegas LAN Rioja Crianza	90
    2008	Yealands Pinot Noir Marlborough	91
    2007	Waterbrook Merlot Columbia Valley Reserve	92
    2007	Castello d’Albola Chianti Classico	90
    NV	Mumm Napa Brut Napa Valley Prestige NV	90
    2008	Tamarack Firehouse Red Columbia Valley	90
    2007	Chateau de Flaugergues Coteaux du Languedoc La Mejanelle Cuvee Sommeliere	91
    2008	Attems Pinot Grigio Venezia-Giulia	91
    2005	Bodegas Beronia Rioja Reserva	91
    NV	Godme Pere & Fils Brut Champagne Reserve NV	93
    2007	Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley	95
    2009	Mollydooker Shiraz McLaren Vale Carnival of Love	94
    2007	Concha y Toro Cabernet Sauvignon Puente Alto Marques de Casa Concha	91
    2009	St.-Urbans-Hof Riesling Kabinett Mosel Ockfen Bockstein	92
    2004	Bodegas Ondarre Rioja Reserva	91
    2008	Christian Moreau Pere & Fils Chablis Les Clos	95
    2007	Didier Dagueneau Pouilly-Fume Silex	94
    2008	Fetish Shiraz Barossa Valley The Watcher	91
    2008	Trimbach Riesling Alsace Reserve	92
    2008	d’Arenberg The Stump Jump Red South Australia	90
    2009	Bouza do Rei Albarino Rias Baixas Lagar	90
    2007	Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi Chianti Rufina Castello di Nipozzano Riserva	91
    2008	Bodega Colome Malbec Calchaqui Valley	91
    2007	Domaine Les Pallieres Gigondas Terrasse du Diable	92
    2009	Achaval-Ferrer Malbec Mendoza	91
    2008	Orin Swift Zinfandel California Saldo	91
    2008	Schloss Vollrads Riesling Kabinett Rheingau	91
    2008	Roco Pinot Noir Willamette Valley	92
    2008	Knoll Gruner Veltliner Federspiel Trocken Wachau Loibner	91
    2006	Dominio de Atauta Ribera del Duero	92
    2008	Durigutti Malbec Mendoza	90
    2008	A to Z Wineworks Pinot Noir Oregon	90
    2008	J.C. Pichot Vouvray Domaine Le Peu de la Moriette	90
    2007	Peter Lehmann Clancy’s Barossa	90
    2007	Perrin & Fils Gigondas La Gille	92
    2009	Elk Cove Pinot Gris Willamette Valley	90
    2008	Vina Nora Rias Baixas	90
    2009	Robert Weil Riesling Qualitatswein Trocken Rheingau Kiedrich Turmberg	93
    2007	Trapiche Malbec Mendoza Vina Fausto Orellana de Escobar	93
    2007	Avignonesi Vino Nobile di Montepulciano	90
    2006	Pagos de Familia Marques de Grinon Syrah-Petit Verdot Dominio de Valdepusa Caliza	91
    2008	Château de Lascaux Coteaux du Languedoc	91
    2009	Koutsoyiannopoulos Santorini	91
    2008	Veramonte Pinot Noir Casablanca Valley Ritual	90
    2009	St.Cosme Cotes du Rhone	90
    2008	Agricola La Vina Syrah Colchagua Valley Polkura	91
    2007	Bodega Norton Malbec Mendoza Reserva	90
    2007	Domaine Leflaive Puligny-Montrachet Clavoillon	94
    2007	De Martino Syrah Choapa Valley Legado Reserva	90
    2008	Stadt Krems Gruner Veltliner Qualitatswein Trocken Kremstal	90
    2009	Louis Jadot Moulin-a-Vent Chateau des Jacques	90
    2008	Chateau de la Greffiere Macon-La Roche Vineuse Vieilles Vignes	90
    2008	Chateau Rollan de By Medoc	90
    2008	Hermann J. Wiemer Riesling Finger Lakes Dry Reserve	91
    2008	Bouchard Pere & Fils Volnay Caillerets Ancienne Cuvee Carnot Domaine	92
    2009	Domaine Tempier Bandol Rose	91
    2008	Kanonkop Pinotage Simonsberg-Stellenbosch	91

    
    
• Episode 8 wine pairings

  • Chicken Caesar Salad Bites

    Chicken Caesar Salad Bites

    We suggest:

    Clos la Chance,

    Central Coast (California) Estate Viognier 2005

    Winemaker’s Tasting Notes Aromas of strong floral notes and lavender. Tones of stone fruits, grape fruit, honeysuckle and peach cobbler. On the entry, crisp and acidic with citrus flavors. Flavors of lemon zest, orange blossom and carried through with flavors of peach and apricot. The finish is smooth, with traces of nutmeg and vanilla. Pairs well with shrimp with lemon garlic butter, artichoke and parmesan soup, chicken tagine with apricots and almonds, lobster salad with tarragon and fresh oysters.   Technical Data Appellation: Central Coast Harvest Dates: 9/15, 9/17, 10/5 Bottling Dates: 12/21/2009 Release Date: April 2010 Blend: 91% Viognier, 6% Rousanne, 3% Marsanne Alcohol: 14.5% PH: 3.56 TA: 0.54g/100m Total Cases: 698l

    
    

    Croque Madame Casserole Wine Pairing

                                                       

     For this delightful dish, we recommend POUILLY FUME
    

    Country: FRANCE
    Region: LOIRE
    Sub-Region: CENTRAL VINEYARDS
    Appellation: POUILLY FUME
    Grape Varietal: SAUVIGNON BLANC
    Type: Still wine

    
    
• Episode 7 Wine pairings

  • Chicken Mole wine pairing

    Episode 7

    Chicken Mole wine pairing...

    Elegant and sleekly structured, yet with a bright backbone of complexity and ripe tannins. The chosen Zinfandel offers lively black rasberry and spicy vanilla aromas that lead to supple flavors of black cherry and licorice. 

    Carlisle, Zinfandel Dry Creek Valley 2008 from the Sonoma Region in California with a release price of $34. Drink now through 2014. 292 cases made.

     

     

     

     

     

    
    

    Salmon Tacos wine pairing

    Salmon Tacos wine pairing...

     Verdejo (ver-DAY-ho) is the Spanish answer to Sauvignon Blanc with a hint more floral aromas. Verdejo is known to come from several regions across Spain ranging from Rueda to Tierra de Castilla. This varietal has been written about by wine writers from Robert Parker to Hugh Johnson as the next hot white known for good value for the money

    Tasting Notes
    This pale yellow-hued wine has a vibrant nose with an array of aromas of green apples and peach over a backdrop of tropical pineapple. The palate is full-flavored and complex with fine apple fruit beautifully balanced by a refreshing and lingering acidity.

    Food Pairings
    Tapeña Verdejo is a delightful white wine that pairs well with many different dishes. Try it with grilled salmon, lemon chicken, creamy lighter cheeses such as goat cheese or a fresh summer salad. Click here for recipes that pair with Tapeña Verdejo

    Wine Reviews
    Silver Medal
    - 2010 Sommelier Challenge International Wine Competition

    
    
• Episode 6 Wine Pairings

  • Appetizer

    Mushroom Canapes

     

    Prep Time: 10 min Cook Time: 10 min Servings: 16 canapes Difficulty: Easy   Ingredients: 1 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan One 4 ounce canned mushroom pieces and stems, drained 1 2.8-ounce can french-fried onion rings 1 loaf (12-ounce) Pepperidge Farms party rye or pumpernickel bread Parsley for garnish

    Shopping List 1 box Waverly (or similar) crackers 1 lb. regular sliced bacon 1 4oz. can mushrooms 1 2.8 oz can French-fried onion rings 1 loaf pumpernickel party bread 8 oz. grated parmesan cheese (canned) Parsley

     

    Directions:
    In a bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, Parmesan, mushrooms, and onion rings. Spread on lightly toasted party rye or pumpernickel. Place the canapes on a baking sheet and broil until the topping is bubbly.

    
    Show: Paula's Home Cooking/Lady and Sons Too! Cookbook

     

    WINE RECOMMENDATION: PINOT NOIR

     

     

    Bacon Wrapped Crackers

     

    Prep Time: 10 min
    Cook Time: 45 min

    Serves: 35 - 40 bacon wrapped crackers

     

    Ingredients

    1 cup freshly grated Parmesan

    1 box of Waverly Wafers or other buttery rectangular crackers

    1 pound sliced bacon, each slice cut into 1/3’s

     

    Directions

    Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F.

    Wrap each cracker around the middle with a strip of bacon (1/3 slice). Place the wrapped crackers seam side down on a baking sheet. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of the cheese on each bacon wrapped cracker. Place the baking sheets on the oven rack. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the bacon is done. Do not turn. Drain on paper towels, if necessary. Serve hot or at room temperature.

     

    Variations:

    Bacon Wrapped Cracker B: Brush bacon-wrapped crackers lightly with honey before baking.

    Bacon Wrapped Cracker C: Sprinkle bacon-wrapped crackers lightly with brown sugar before baking.

    
    

    Salad

    Bacon-Blue Cheese Salad With White Wine Vinaigrette

     

    Prep: 35 min., Bake: 8 min., Cool: 30 min. Serving this salad in cucumber rings makes it extra special.   4 tablespoons chopped pecans 4 medium cucumbers, peeled, may want the extra long (Euro?) cucumbers 6 cups mixed baby greens 4 cooked thick-cut bacon slices, halved 2/3 cup shredded or matchstick carrots 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste White Wine Vinaigrette

    Shopping List Cucumbers Mixed greens 1 head romaine 3 carrots blue cheese ¼ pound Asiago cheese

     

    1. Place chopped pecans in a single layer in a shallow pan.

    2. Bake at 350º for 8 minutes or until lightly toasted, stirring occasionally. Let cool 30 minutes or until completely cool.

    3. Using a Y-shaped vegetable peeler, cut cucumbers lengthwise into very thin strips just until seeds are visible. Discard cucumber core.

    4. Shape largest cucumber slices into 4 (2 1/2- to 2 3/4-inch-wide) rings. Wrap evenly with remaining cucumber slices. Stand rings upright on 8 serving plates.

    5. Fill each cucumber ring evenly with mixed greens, next 3 ingredients, and toasted pecans. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle each salad with 1 Tbsp. White Wine Vinaigrette, and serve with remaining vinaigrette.

     

    Note: Y-shaped vegetable peelers can be found at most kitchen, home goods, and discount stores from $6.99 to $19.99.(We have one, this is just FYI)

     

    Yield:  Makes 8 servings

     

    WINE RECOMMENDATION: ROBERT MONDAVI FUME BLANC, or similar

     

    White Wine Vinaigrette

     

    Prep: 5 min.

    
    This recipe goes with Bacon-Blue Cheese Salad With White Wine Vinaigrette
    1/2 cup white wine vinegar
    2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    2 garlic clove, minced
    2 teaspoon sugar
    1 cup olive oil
    Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
    
    1. Whisk together 1/2 cup white wine vinegar and next 3 ingredients until blended. Add oil in a slow, steady stream, whisking constantly until smooth. Whisk in salt and pepper to taste. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container up to 1 week.

    Yield:  Makes about 1 1/3 cup

     

     

    Potato and Wild Mushroom Napoleons

     

    Prep Time: 15 min
    Cook Time: 10 min
    Serves: 8 servings

     

    Ingredients

    6 tablespoons unsalted butter

    24 ounces assorted wild mushrooms, such as chanterelle, wood ear, shiitake, morel, cleaned, stems removed, and thinly sliced

    1 cup sliced shallots

    1 teaspoon salt

    1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

    1 cup chicken stock, divided

    1 cup heavy cream

    4 teaspoons fresh chopped thyme

    4 teaspoons white truffle oil

    1 cup finely grated aged Asiago (about 4 ounces)

    24 slices fresh black or white truffle, optional garnish

    Fresh arugula or watercress tossed with extra-virgin olive oil, as garnish

    Potato Crisps, recipe follows

     

    Directions

    In a large, heavy skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.

    Add the mushrooms, shallots, salt and pepper, and saute until soft and most of the mushroom liquid has evaporated, about 8 minutes.

    Add ½ the chicken stock, cream and thyme, and simmer until the liquid has reduced by 50 percent in volume, about 5 minutes. Add the additional chicken stock as needed.

    Remove from the heat and stir in the truffle oil.

    Place 1 or 2 potato crisps (depending on thickness) on each of 8 serving plates. Spoon 1 generous tablespoon of mushroom filling on top of potato, topped with 1 teaspoon of grated Asiago. Continue layering the napoleon so that you have 3 layers of potatoes and 3 layers of mushrooms in all, ending with mushrooms on top. Garnish the top of each napoleon with 3 slices of truffle, and sprinkle of Asiago. Arrange the arugula around the outer edge of the plate and serve. The napoleons can be prepared in advance and kept warm in a 200 degree oven.

     

     

    Potato Crisps

     

    Ingredients

    2/3 cup olive oil

    6 large baking potatoes, like russets (about 1 pounds), peeled and sliced on a mandolin into 1/8-inch slices

    2 teaspoon seasoned salt

     

    Directions

     

    Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

    Brush 2 large baking sheets well with oil.

    Arrange the potato slices in 1 layer on the sheets.

    Brush with the remaining oil, and bake until golden, 12 to 15 minutes, switching the sheets halfway through baking if baking on two different racks in oven.

    Transfer with a spatula to cooling racks. Sprinkle with the Essence and salt, and set aside.

     

    Based on a Recipe courtesy Emeril Lagasse, 2001

    
    

    Main Course

    Beef Tenderloin Steaks With Balsamic Sauce

     

    Yield:  8 servings

     

    8 (6-ounce) beef tenderloin steaks

    4 tablespoons coarse-grain sea salt*

    2 tablespoon coarsely ground pepper

    4 tablespoons olive oil

    Balsamic Sauce

    Garnish:fresh thyme sprigs

     

    Rub tenderloin steaks evenly with salt and pepper.

    Cook steaks in hot oil in a large ovenproof skillet over high heat 2 to 3 minutes on each side.

    Bake at 350° for 8 to 15 minutes or to desired degree of doneness. Serve with Balsamic Sauce, and garnish, if desired.

    *2 tablespoons regular salt may be substituted.

     

    Southern Living, DECEMBER 1998

     

    WINE RECOMMENDATION: Cabernet Sauvignon

     

    Balsamic Sauce

     

    This recipe goes with Beef Tenderloin Steaks With Balsamic Sauce

     

    Yield:  1 cup

     

    1/2 cup dry red wine

    1/2 cup dry sherry

    4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

    2 shallot, chopped

    4 garlic cloves, chopped

    4 egg yolks

    2/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

     

    Bring first 5 ingredients to a boil in a small saucepan; cook 2 minutes. Cool mixture.

     

    Whisk egg yolks into wine mixture, and cook over low heat, whisking constantly, until thickened. Slowly whisk in butter until blended. Serve immediately.

     

    
    

    Dessert

    Caramel-Banana Galette

     

    Recipe serves up to 12

    Prep Time – Passive -30 minutes, Active – 10 minutes

    Cook Time – 30 minutes

     

    The only trick to making this simple dessert is leaving the caramel unstirred for 8 minutes; stirring can cause it to harden. To simplify the topping, substitute bottled fat-free caramel sauce for the sugar and water. Heat the sauce in the microwave for 1 minute, then stir in the raisin mixture. The raisins should sit in the rum for at least 30 minutes - the longer the better. Slice the banana immediately before arranging them on the tart so they don't discolor. To dress it up even more, serve warm with vanilla frozen yogurt.

     

    Yield: 6 servings (serving size: 1 wedge), more realistic is 4 servings, make 2

     

    Ingredients 1/2  cup  golden raisins - divided 4  tablespoons  dark rum - divided 1  (15-ounce) package refrigerated pie dough (such as Pillsbury) – divided in half Cooking spray 6  cups  (1/4-inch-thick) diagonally sliced ripe banana (about 3 pounds, 6+bananas) - divided 1 cup sugar 4  tablespoons  water

    Shopping List Refrigerated pie dough Bananas 4 bunches/heads of broccoli 8 oz, sliced white mushrooms Fresh Thyme

     

    Preparation

    Combine raisins and rum in a small bowl; set aside.

    Preheat oven to 425°.

    Roll dough into 2 - 10 1/2-inch circles, and place on a foil-lined baking sheet(s) coated with cooking spray. Arrange the banana slices in concentric circles on each crust, leaving a 1-2 inch border. Fold a 2-inch dough border over banana slices, pressing gently to seal (dough will partially cover slices). Bake both crusts at 425° for 30 minutes.

    Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan; cook over medium heat until golden (about 8 minutes). Remove from heat; carefully stir in raisin mixture until combined. Cool slightly. Pour over banana slices. Cut each galette into 6 wedges for a small serving and each galette into 4 slices for a more generous serving. Serve with whipped cream, ice cream, or frozen yogurt.

     

    Cooking Light, DECEMBER 2000

     

    WINE RECOMMENDATION: Riesling

     

    
    
• Episode 5 Wine Pairings

  • Wine Pairings for Episode 5

     

    

     

    WITH OUR CURRIED CRABCAKES…A 2007 REISLING FROM TRIMBACH… A FRENCH WINE.

    
    

    

    
    

    WITH OUR CURRIED CHICKEN ENTRE’… A 2007 GRAND RESERVE CHARDONNAY FROM KENDALL-JACKSON… FROM THE SONOMA VALLEY.

    
    

    AND WITH OUR DESSERT… CHOCOLATE CHUNK BREAD PUDDING… FROM THE MIRASSOU WINERY IN CALIFORNIA…A PINOT NOIR.

    
    
• Episode 4 Wine Pairings

  • Eat Cheap Drink Rich (Wine Rap)

     

    HERE ARE THE WINES THAT COULD BE PAIRED WITH OUR 3 PRIMARY COURSES THIS EVENING…

    
    

    OUR PIZZETTES WITH FONTINA, TOMATO, BASIL AND PROSCIUTTO WILL GO NICELY WITH CASTILLO DI QUERCETO CHIANTI. CLASSICO RISERVA 2005, FROM ITALY.

    
    

    FOR OUR ENTRÉE THIS EVENING… THE MUSTARD AND HERB CRUSTED RACK OF LAMB… FROM THE ROMBAUER VINEYARDS OF NAPA VALLEY… A 2005 CABERNET SAUVIGNON.

    
    

    AND…WITH OUR STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE DESSERT… A SCHUG CHARDONNAY…2008 FROM THE SONOMA COAST.

    
    
• Episode 3 Wine Pairings

  • Tomato-Cheese Bread

    DeLoach Private Collection 2008 Pinot Noir

    

    
    

    Main Dish

    Maple-Chipotle Pork Tenderloin on Smoked Gouda Grits

    Seghesio 2008 Zinfandel Sonoma County

    
    

    Dessert

    Bananas Foster

    Mionetto’s Il Moscato From Italy

    
    
• Episode 2 Wine Pairings

  • Tostones Appetizer (Plantains)

    
    

    Chalone Vineyard 2007 Chardonnay

    

    
    

    Main Dish Chicken with Strawberry Gastrique

    
    

    Cambria 2006 Julia’s Vineyard Pinot Noir

    

    
    

    Dessert Flourless Chocolate Cake

    
    

    Mollydooker – The Boxer 2008 Chiraz (Australian)