June Cheese Club: Iowa

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Cheese ClubPoint Reyes Toma CheesePoint Reyes Farmstead Cheese Co.
TomaProvence
Point Reyes Station, California

The rich texture and buttery flavor that make Toma a true American original provides a perfect base for a line of cheeses that are as unique as they are delicious. This pasteurized, cow’s milk cheese has a full, savory, Mediterranean flavor. Herbs de Provence – a blend that includes rosemary, basil, marjoram, savory and wild thyme – have been added to complement the creamy butter notes of Toma (thus the name, Toma Provence). Great as a snacking cheese, or pair with olives, a fresh baguette and an abundant charcuterie board and a buttery Chardonnay. Learn more about the history of the Giacomini family dairy farm and the new generation of sister cheesemakers at Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese.  Be sure to check out Jane Pauly’s feature segment below, that aired on NBC’s Today show in July 2013.

WINE & CRAFT BEER PAIRINGS:
Pair this cheese with a crisp Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, or a buttery Chardonnay. For beer, look for a hoppy IPA.

WINESTYLES: Crisp or Fruity
BEERSTYLES: Hoppy & Bitter

Information © Points Reyes Farmstead Cheese Co. – All Rights Reserved.
© Video by NBC Today’s Show

PRFC Today Show from Great Matter on Vimeo.

Sainte Mere Abbaye_Cheese Image copyIsigny Ste-Mère
Abbaye Ste-Mère St- Paulin
Normandy, France

This pasteurized cow’s milk cheese is a member of the Port-du-Salut family. Originally made by the Trappist monks of Saint-Paulin, it can be recognized by its fine, moist rind, its yielding texture and its slightly salty taste. With its semi-soft texture, this French cheese has a smooth, fruity taste with a slightly stronger finish. Its natural mildness gives way to both taste and character.  

WINE & CRAFT BEER PAIRINGS:
Enjoy this cheese with a Chenin Blanc or a Beaujolais. For beer, this cheese will pair beautifully with a Hefeweizen, Amber Ale, Belgium Ale (any Trappist Ale), or a Normandy Cider.

WINESTYLES: Crisp or Fruity
BEERSTYLES: Crisp & Clean or Fruity & Spicy

Information © Zuercher & Co. – All Rights Reserved.

Join our Cheese Club and bring home a match made in heaven!Match Made in Heaven!

If you enjoy pairing cheese with wine, this is your club!  Each month you’ll discover specialty and artisan cheeses to pair with your Wine Club. Monthly cheese selections are chosen by your local WineStyles participating location. It’s the perfect opportunity to Taste, Learn and Enjoy® amazing artisan cheese every month! Only $19.99/month and your wine won’t be lonely!  Click to learn more >

June Beer Club: Iowa

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Freigeist-Bierkultur-Ottekolong-Kolsch-Bottle ImageFreigeist Bierkultur
Ottekolong
Unfiltered Kölsch
Cologne, Germany

Ottekelong which in local parlance means, “water from Cologne,” is the basic beer from Freigeist. Based on the local Cologne specialty, Kölsch, Ottekolong is an unfiltered Kölsch-style beer, but with more IBUs than is typical for German Kölsch. Also, because it is unfiltered it isn’t technically legal to call in Kölsch in Germany.

ABV: 4.8% alcohol / volume
IBU: 20
Style: Unfiltered Kölsch
Beer Style at WineStyles: Crisp & Clean 

Freigeist_Dortmunder_Can_ImageFreigeist Bierkultur
Dortmunder
Lager
Cologne, Germany

This style of beer generally offers a malt forward flavor and aroma balanced by hop bitterness. Maltier than a pilsner and hoppier than Helles, modern-day Dortmund Exports expand on traditions with more complex malt variety and extra bitterness.  Beers brewed to this style traditionally use Noble hops for bittering, which tend to give earthy, floral, spicy notes.

ABV: 5.5% alcohol / volume
Style: Lager – Dortmunder/Export
Beer Style at WineStyles: Malty

Rhubarb_Gose_Bottle_ImageFreigeist Bierkultur
Geisterzug
Rhubarb Gose
Cologne, Germany

Based on Freigeist’s ancient spruced Gose recipe, Geisterzug Quince & Geisterzug Rhubarb feature all the complexity, funkiness, and body of the of the original but go one step further by adding tart and flavorful real fruit and vegetables during fermentation. The resulting brews are incredibly lively, characterful, and thirst-quenching.

ABV: 5% alcohol / volume
IBU: 12
Style: Rhubarb Gose
Beer Style at WineStyles: Sour, Tart & Funky

Das_Fette_RadlerFreigeist Bierkultur
Das Fette
Shandy / Radler
Cologne, Germany

50% Das Fette Wiess, 50% Zitronenlimonade. Made for Die Fette Kuh, Köln. 

ABV: 2.5% alcohol / volume
Style: Shandy / Radler
Beer Style at WineStyles: Fruity & Spicy 

ABOUT FREIGEIST BIERKULTUR BREWERY:
Freigeist was founded in 2009 with a mission to revive Germany’s lost regional, artisanal ales. They now offer bold, American-influence, American-brewed twists on their homelands’s most popular beer styles. The special label of Braustelle, Freigeist Bierkultur is a tiny decade-old brewery in Cologne, Germany run by Peter Esser and Sebastian Sauer. The dual use this label to riff on traditional beer styles, creating interesting, unique, and unusual beers. The beers were brewed and canned in collaboration by Urban Chestnut Brewing in St. Louis for Ffreigeist Bierkultur. Learn more about the brewery here, and follow them on Untappd.

Photos and information © Freigeist Bierkultur, Beer Advocate and The Wine & Cheese Place – All Rights Reserved.

Urban Chestnut Brewing Company_Zwickel_Can ImageUrban Chestnut Brewing Company
Zwickel
Bavarian-Style Lager
Saint Louis, MO

Pronounced ‘zv-ick-el’, the flagship lager of their Reverence Series (classically crafted, timeless, European-style biers) is an unfiltered, unpasteurized, German classic that finishes as a smooth-drinking, naturally cloudy beer. It is bready, lightly-hopped and smooth.

ABV: 5.1% alcohol / volume
IBU: 19
Hops: Hallertau Perle, Hallertau Mittelfrueh
Malt: Pilsner, Caramel
Yeast: UCBC Lager
Style: Bavarian Lager
Beer Style at WineStyles: Crisp & Clean
Awards:

  • Gold Medal: 2019 Great International Beer & Cider Competition
  • Gold Medal: 2017 LA International Beer Competition

Dorfbier_Can_ImageUrban Chestnut Brewing Company
Dorfbier
Bavarian-Style Dunkle Lager
Saint Louis, MO

Some refer to the Dunkel style as the original beer of Munich and its surrounding villages (Dörfer). This everyday beer ranges in color and sweetness depending on the amount of Munich and roasted malts used. The sweetness of the malt is then balanced by the use of another Bavarian friend… the Hallertau hop… in this specific case, Hersbrucker, grown near Wolnzach, Hallertau. This beer is from Urban Chestnut Brewing Company’s Reverence series; it is deep amber in color and rich, smooth and tasty.

ABV: 5.2% alcohol / volume
IBU: 20
Hops: Herbrucker, Perle
Malt: Munich, Caramel, Chocolate
Yeast: UCBC Lager
Style: Munich Dunkle
Beer Style at WineStyles: Malty
Awards:

  • Gold Medal: 2017 World Beer Championships
  • Gold Medal – European Style Dunkel: 2016 Los Angeles International Beer Competition

ABOUT URBAN CHESTNUT BREWING COMPANY:
Urban Chestnut Brewing Co, with three locations in St. Louis, is an unconventional-minded, yet traditional-oriented brewer of craft beer. They take a ‘new world meets old world’ brewing approach wherein UCBC contributes to their ‘revolution’ of craft beer with artisanal creations of modern American beers; and ‘reverence’ to the heritage of beer with classically-crafted offerings of timeless European beer styles. Learn more about the brewery here, and follow them on Untappd.

Photos and information © Urban Chestnut Brewing Co. – All Rights Reserved.

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June Sweet Club: Iowa

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Sweet Wine ClubSchmitt-Late-Harvest-Riesling-bottleSchmitt Söhne
Riesling Spätlese (Late Harvest)
Mosel, Germany

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Germany’s harvest is typically a month later than other wine regions, allowing for a long ripening season.  Their Late Harvest Riesling is made from grapes that remain on the vine, where they continue to ripen and intensify in flavor and picked several weeks after the main harvest. The result is a delicious concentration of fruit, with flavors of apricots and peaches coupled with enough acidity to give it a firm and juicy mouth feel.

Analysis: 8-8.5% alcohol / volume
RS: 46-50 g/L
TA: 8-9 g/L
Pairing Recommendation: Enjoy by itself, with soft or blue cheese, richer foods, Asian dishes, Thai, Cajun or any spicy cuisine. Or enjoy with one of their suggested recipes >
Serve: Chilled

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: These sweet wines from our ‘Nectar’ section will pair well with blue cheese, or a soft cheese, such as brie. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

About Schmitt Söhne Wines:
Family-owned and operated, over 200 years ago the Schmitt ancestors settled in the small village of Longuich, along the Mosel River, and began managing vineyards and producing wine. The Mosel is regarded as the oldest wine-growing region in Germany, believed to be established by the Romans around 50 AD.  It is one of the most northernly wine regions in the world and famous for their steep south-facing slopes and blue slate soil, reflected in the touch of minerality in their Spätlese. Now in the fifth generation, Schmitt Söhne is one of Germany’s largest and most successful wine exporters around the world. While they have continued to develop their winemaking techniques and technologies, the family has never lost sight of their traditions. Learn more here.

Information © Schmitt Söhne Wines – All Rights Reserved.

Pierre-Sparr-bottlePierre Sparr
Alsace Riesling AOC
Alsace, France

NECTAR WINE STYLE

This dry and elegant wine has a fine nose with mineral notes of citrus fruits and yellow lemon. It has beautiful length with salinity and a very nice freshness that is well-balanced with a huge and exceptional terroir expression. 

Analysis: 12.7% alcohol / volume
RS: 5.80 g/L
TA: 4.20 g/L TH2
Storage: 7-8 years
Serve: 42.8ºF-46.4ºF

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: These sweet wines from our ‘Nectar’ section will pair well with an herbal or spicy cheese. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

About Pierre Sparr Winery:
The origin of winemaking in the Sparr family dates back to 1680. Generations later, Charles Sparr developed the business that his son, Pierre, later took the succession at the age of 20. Pierre had a distinct sense for business, making him a pioneer of “estate bottled” wines in Alsace. Pierre also had the courage and obstinacy to rebuild their entire estate after Sigolsheim and its vineyards were completely destroyed during WWII. In doing so, Pierre rebuilt one of Alsace’s most beautiful and prestigious Domaines. Today, with the help of the 9th generation, the aim is still to perpetuate tradition, passion and emotion. Learn more here.

Information © Pierre Sparr – All Rights Reserved.

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June Bubbly Club Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubAvissi
Prosecco DOC
Prosecco, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Just as Champagne is synonymous with the sparkling wine region of Champagne, France, Italy’s famous sparkling wine region is the Prosecco DOC zone located in Veneto, Italy.  At the center of it all is a lovely grape called Glera, previously known as Prosecco (renamed in 2009) and an equally lovely village called Prosecco. Prosecco sparkling wines are made in the Charmat method, a lighter style with more delicate bubbles than its French counterpart in Champagne.

Avissi is clean and bright, a crisp sparkler with soft, elegant bubbles that flutter in the glass, giving a lovely effervescence to each sip. A beautiful balance of heady floral notes and luscious fruit makes it imminently approachable. That’s why we love it with take-out after work, all dressed up on a Saturday night, or brunch on Sunday.

Analysis: 11% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Glera (Prosecco)
Residual Sugar: 14.8 g/L
TA: 5.8 g/L
Appellation: Prosecco DOC, Veneto, Italy
Critical Acclaim: 92 Points – Tasting Panel Magazine

About Avissi Winery:
Located in a scenic village in northern Italy where Prosecco has flourished for hundreds of years, Avissi celebrates traditions, while bringing a new light to them. Grapes for Avissi are selected from small parcels of Glera vines grown throughout the Prosecco DOC. These vineyard blocks are faithfully tended to by families of winegrowers, who have farmed the vineyards for many generations. Avissi wines are crafted in small batches using concrete fermentation tanks, elevating the quality of the wine – a nuance you’ll be able to taste in the glass. Learn more about the Avissi winery here. 

Photos and Information © Avissi Wines – All Rights Reserved

La Gioiosa Et Amorosa
Prosecco Rosé
Millesimato DOC
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The nose is subtle and fresh, offering hints of small red fruits. Notes of rose and pomegranate complete this elegant and intense aromatic profile. On the palate, it is silky and full, presenting a very pleasant balance between the fruity and floral notes.

Analysis: 11% alcohol / volume
Varietal: Glera & Pinot Nero (Prosecco & Pinot Noir)
Sugar Content: 12 g/L
Region: Valdobbiadene, Veneto, Italy
Production Area: Vineyards in northeastern Italy (Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia) with alluvial soils rich in marl (carbonate minerals, clays, and silt).
Harvest: Pinot Nero grapes are picked in late August and the Glera grapes in mid-September.
Aging: Cold storage of the must in stainless steel tanks.
Food Pairings: Excellent as an aperitif. Ideal with finger foods and Mediterranean first courses.
Serving Temperature: 46.4ºF
Critical Acclaim: 90pts James Suckling, 2020

WINEMAKING:
Whole white clusters are soft-pressed in a bladder press. After an initial racking, the resulting must is transferred to temperature-controlled tanks where it remains until it is used for the production of the sparkling wine. After pressing, the red grapes are transferred into tanks and undergo gentle maceration for color and tannin extraction. Fermentation is carried out at 71.6ºF-73.4ºF to preserve the wine’s aromas.

SECOND FERMENTATION:
The white must and a small amount of the red must are blended together. Next, selected yeast is added to the resulting cuvée in vats where fermentation takes place at 59ºF-60.8ºF to enhance the fruits natural aromas. When the desired alcohol level and amount of residual sugar is obtained, fermentation is arrested by means of temperature control. After being aged for at least two months on its lees, the sparkling wine is ready for bottling.

La Gioiosa Et Amorosa
Prosecco Brut
Treviso DOC
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Very pale straw yellow in color with a fine, persistent perlage. The aroma is fruity and flowery with hints of ripe golden apple and small mountain flowers. The dry, fresh and flavorsome sensation on the palate is followed by a fruity and harmonious aftertaste.

Analysis: 11% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Glera (Prosecco)
Sugar Content: 14 g/L
Region: Veneto, Italy
Production Area: Extends in the province of Treviso in the DOC area of Prosecco – including the hills of morainic origin, over the plain with medium textured soils of alluvial origin.
Training Method: Single espalier, double canopy and radiating systems
Aging: Stainless steel tanks
Food Pairings: Excellent as an aperitif to accompany savories; or ideal with steamed shellfish.
Serving Temperature: 42.8ºF-46.4ºF
Critical Acclaim: 93pts Bevtest 2021

VINIFICATION:
The grapes are harvested and pressed before the must is transferred to a temperature-controlled tank and chilled to slightly above freezing. The must is racked to a temperature-controlled pressurized tank (autoclave) where the first fermentation is provoked. Wine is stabilized using temperature control and second fermentation is provoked as well.

SECOND FERMENTATION:
The must is put into vessels where the fermentation takes place at 59ºF-60.8ºF to enhance all the harvest fragrances. Upon reaching the required alcohol and sugar content, the fermentation is stopped by refrigeration.

ABOUT LA GIOIOSA WINERY:
La Gioiosa is characterized by long traditions and an extraordinary attitude towards innovation and research. Their desire to produce wines in accordance to their own innovative, high quality and sustainable practices – from the vineyard to the bottle – have led them to support projects such as the Wine Research Team and the certification of Biodiversity Friend. Their mission is to share the magic of its bubbles in the world, with respect for the environment and for a healthier future of our planet. Learn more here.

Photos and Information © Ethica Wines and La Gioiosa – All Rights Reserved

Bubbly Wine ClubLearn more about our Bubbly Club >

 

 

Two Mountain Tempranillo

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BBQ pork with cheesy grits

BBQ Pork with Cheesy Grits

INGREDIENTS:

  • 3 cups of water
  • 1 cup stone ground yellow grits
  • 1 tsp of salt
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • fresh cracked black pepper
  • 2 cups rib meat from leftover pork ribs
  • ¾ cup BBQ sauce

DIRECTIONS:

  1. In a large pot bring the water to a boil. Next add the salt, cayenne pepper and butter.
  2. Gradually add the grits to the boiling water using a whisk to prevent any lumps.
  3. Lower the heat to simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
  4. While grits are simmering, pick meat from pork ribs and chop. Place in a small saucepan with BBQ sauce and cook on low for 10 minutes.
  5. Gradually whisk the cheese a little at a time into the grits until completely incorporated. Cook another 5 minutes.
  6. Plate with divided grits, topped with BBQ pork rib meat. Garnish with fresh cracked black pepper and chopped parsley (optional).

© Recipe courtesy of Kevin is Cooking.

JUNE WINE CLUB:

Mellow style logo2-Mountain-Tempranillo-bottleTwo Mountain Winery
Tempranillo
Yakima Valley, Washington

MELLOW WINE STYLE

The Two Mountain Tempranillo opens with hints of overripe fig, forest-fresh Hemlock, and a smidge of toasted pine nuts. It is then followed by dried tobacco, sun-dried tomatoes, and coriander dust. Once you have been tantalized by the aromatics, the palate is treated to soft tannins mixed with nice acid, a touch of subtle oak and flavors of rich earth, dark huckleberry, sage and a freshly rolled cigar. This is definitely an old world-esque Tempranillo from the new world Washington State. Be prepared, be very prepared.

Varietal: 100% Tempranillo
Analysis: 13.9% alcohol / volume
Appellation: Yakima Valley, Washington
Vineyard: Various Estate Vineyard Plots
Production: 200 cases

About Two Mountain Winery:

“Our name, Two Mountain Winery, is inspired by the majestic views of Mt. Adams and Mt. Rainier which serve as the backdrop of Copeland Vineyard. It’s a simple moniker that reflects our minimalistic approach to growing and making wine with a proud nod to the incredible valley in which we farm.

There’s something uniquely fulfilling in working the same ground as our uncle, grandfather, and great- grandfather. It would be easy to take this humble life for granted, but we consider our role as growers to be more than just wine grape production. We have an obligation to operate in a way that ensures the next generation inherits a world worthy of their potential. Becoming Washington State’s first certified sustainable vineyard not only validates our efforts as growers, but reminds us of how fortunate we are to be surrounded and supported by an incredible team that is committed to making the right decisions for our land, our planet, and our customers.

We like to joke that four generations of Yakima Valley farming pulsing through our veins predisposed us to dirty fingernails and an inherent love of the land, but it really is the truth. We love this life, and we’re lucky to have it. We hope that shines through in our wines and that you enjoy them as we prefer—with friends and family.” – The Brothers, Matthew & Patrick Rawn

Information © Two Mountain Winery – All Rights Reserved.

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Two Mountain Winery Rosé

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Homemade,Cheesy,Pull,Apart,Bread,With,Garlic,And,ParsleyCheese and Garlic Pull Apart Bread

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 crusty loaf , preferably sourdough or Vienna
  • 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese (or other melting cheese)
  • 1 stick (8 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF.
  2. Combine butter, garlic and salt in a heatproof bowl and melt in the microwave. Stir through parsley.
  3. Cut the bread on a diagonal into one inch diamonds but do not cut all the way through the bread.
  4. Use your fingers or a knife to pry open each crack and drizzle in a teaspoon of butter and stuff in a pinch of cheese. This might sound like a bit of an effort, but I promise you it is worth it! You don’t need to be super neat, it’s nice to have some of the butter drizzled over the crust.
  5. Brush surface with remaining butter. 
  6. Wrap with foil and bake for 20 minutes until the cheese has mostly melted, then unwrap and bake for 5 – 10 minutes more to make the bread nice and crusty.
  7. Serve immediately.

© Recipe courtesy of RecipeTin Eats.

JUNE WINE CLUB:

Two-Mountain-Winery_2022_Rosé_bottle_imageTwo Mountain Winery
Rosé
Yakima Valley, Washington

FRUITY WINE STYLE

The Two Mountain Rosé blooms with ripe wild strawberry, a touch of watermelon and hints of fragrant violet. Not to be outdone, the palate explodes with rich, red fruit and balanced acid, making it a natural to sip on its own or with a fresh baguette and your formage of choice. Rattan bistro chair optional.

Sustainable_WineryVarietal: 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Cabernet Franc
Analysis: 13% alcohol / volume
Vineyard: Portteus Vineyard, Copeland Vineyard
Aging: 100% Stainless Steel Tanks
Production: 794 cases

About the Vineyards:

Today, Two Mountain Winery operates 300 acres of vineyards and 100% of their wines come from their estate acreage. Warm days and cool nights provide the Yakima Valley with near-perfect growing conditions, allowing both white and red grape varietals to fully express their classic characteristics. The Cascade Mountain Range provides a wonderful rain-shadow effect on the vineyard. Two Mountain Winery has warm sites with ideal 190-day growing seasons and annual precipitation between six to seven inches in total. Learn more about their vineyards here.

Two Mountain Rawn brothers in the vineyard with their dogs

Brothers Matthew Rawn (Winemaker) and Patrick Rawn (Vineyard Operations) with Cash (black Lab) and Fievel.

About Two Mountain Winery:

Two Mountain logoTwo Mountain Winery produces approachable, handcrafted wines that are worth saving for that special occasion, but are accessibly priced for a casual dinner with family and friends. This family-owned operation draws on the experience of three generations who have farmed the rich soil of the Yakima Valley. The Rawn brothers oversee every aspect of the winemaking process from the grapes to the glass. Inspired by majestic Mt. Rainier and Mt. Adams that form the breathtaking backdrop of the Estate Copeland Vineyard, their award-winning wines are a reflection of the perfect climate in which they were grown. Learn more here.

Two Mountain Vineyard

© Two Mountain Winery – Vineyard

Information © Two Mountain Winery – All Rights Reserved.

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June Wine Club Pairing Recipe

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Organic,Roasted,Grilled,Eggplant,With,Parsley,And,GarlicGarlic & Herb Grilled Eggplant

INGREDIENTS:

  • 2 eggplants
  • 2 tsp salt
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic crushed
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
  • ½ tsp pepper
  • ¼ tsp salt

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Cut the eggplant into ¼ inch thick slices and generously salt each slice. Let them rest for about 15 minutes so that the salt can draw out the moisture and bitterness. Wipe each of the slices with a paper towel to remove the salt and moisture. 
  2. Preheat the barbecue to medium heat.
  3. In a large dish combine the olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt and pepper. Place each of the eggplant slices in the dish, flipping them over to ensure both sides are covered in oil. 
  4. Grill for approximately 6 minutes per side until golden in color with grill marks. If the eggplant slices become dry and stick to the grill, brush them with more oil. 
  5. Once the eggplant is tender and cooked. Remove from the grill and return back to oil, herb and garlic mixture in the pan. Flip once so that both sides are coated before transferring to a serving platter. Spoon any of the excess herbs & garlic overtop before serving. The eggplant can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature and will last for up to 4 days in the fridge. 

© Recipe courtesy of Every Last Bite.

JUNE WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoTwo-Mountain-Winery_2020_Syrah_bottleTwo Mountain Winery
Syrah
Yakima Valley, Washington

BOLD WINE STYLE

Whoa, Paradise City—in a bottle! Blue fruit, graham cracker spice and the bad a#$ richness of wet tobacco leaves are sprinkled with a touch of black pepper to create some sweet, aromatic chords. These flavors are followed by a blackberry/bing cherry fruit melody, with a touch of cola, cedar leaf, and a savory herb mélange. This wine has a very pretty oak, great acid and supple tannins.

Sustainable_WineryVarietal: 100% Syrah
Analysis: 13.9% alcohol / volume
Vineyard: Copeland Vineyard, Schmidt Vineyard
Aging: 22 months – 100% French (40% new)
Production: 528 cases

Matthew Rawn – Winemaker, Director of Sales and Marketing
Matt Rawn

Matthew Rawn – Winemaker, Director of Sales and Marketing

Matthew Rawn has been winemaker for Two Mountain Winery since its inception. He helped plant the estate vineyard with his uncle Ron Schmidt in 2000 and has produced Two Mountain’s wines since the first vintage in 2002. While the vineyard was growing, Matt honed his winemaking skills by working alongside neighboring Yakima Valley wine producers and learning their craft. A passionate advocate for the Washington wine industry, Matt manages sales and marketing for the winery and enjoys talking with wine retailers and restaurateurs about the state’s world-class wines. Matt also shares vineyard duties with his brother, Patrick. Matt holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business from Montana State University in Bozeman, Mont. and completed enology and viticulture courses at Walla Walla Community College in Walla Walla, Wash.

Patrick Rawn – General Manager, Vineyard Operations
Patrick Rawn

Photo by Two Mountain Winery: Patrick Rawn

Patrick Rawn manages finances and daily operations for Two Mountain Winery and estate vineyard and shares vineyard management duties with his brother, Matt. After college, Patrick traveled the globe and spent extensive time in Europe. Patrick returned to the U.S. with plans to enter law school, but a six-month stint working for the family wine business took his career path in a new direction. Patrick’s passion for wine blossomed at Two Mountain Winery, and quickly grew into a full-fledged love affair. Patrick lives and works in the Yakima Valley, where he is a Yakima County Planning Commissioner and serves on the Yakima County Wine Tourism Consortium. Patrick holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and a minor in economics/international finance from the University of Washington in Seattle. Learn more about Matt, Patrick, and their team here.

Two Mountain Building

About Two Mountain Winery:

Two Mountain Winery is a family affair – owned and operated by brothers Matthew and Patrick Rawn, their family has been farming the rich soil of the Rattlesnake Hills area of Washington State for more than half a century. In 1951, Phil Schmidt established Schmidt Orchards with 40 acres of peaches, apricots, prunes, and apples. Today, the Rawn brothers continue that legacy through Two Mountain Winery and the estate farming operation. The small family winery produces a modest 10,000 cases annually, but is poised for growth under the leadership of the Rawn Brothers who believe great wine is the result of the perfect blend of elegance and fun. After purchasing Two Mountain Winery and Estate Vineyard from their late uncle Ron Schmidt’s estate in 2006, the brothers set out to put their own fingerprint on the family business by launching a new look for their classic, hand-crafted varietal wines. Learn more here.

Information © Two Mountain Winery – All Rights Reserved.

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May Cheese Club: Iowa

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Cheese Clubpiave-cheese-clubPiave Aged
Veneto, Italy

Aged for a minimum of 1 year, this Italian mountain cheese is made with pasteurized cow’s milk. It has a dense texture, similar to a young parmesan; at first rich, tangy, caramel-sweet and nutty in flavor, with a delayed component of citrus notes in its finish. Piave is regarded as a cheese that gains character as it ages.

WINE & CRAFT BEER PAIRINGS:
This cheese pairs beautifully with with Mellow or Bold Italian wines, such as Valpolicella, Amarone,or Chianti (Sangiovese). For craft beers, pair with a light Pilsner or Lager, such as Italian Peroni or a Saison.

WINESTYLES: Mellow or Bold
BEERSTYLES: Crisp & Clean

Information © Zuercher & Co. – All Rights Reserved.

Coopers-Hill-Header-Product-485x485Cooper’s Hill
Double Gloucester
Great Britain

Cooper’s Hill celebrates a famous cheese rolling tradition enshrined in English folklore.  Every year, a wheel of Double Gloucester cheese is sent down the hill and the first person chasing it to cross the finish line receives the wheel of the cheese and all the accolades. This year’s event is scheduled for May 29, 2023. Learn more about this fun tradition >

This pasteurized cow’s milk cheese combines the creamy texture and rounded taste of a quintessential British Double Gloucester with the tang of added chives and onions.  

WINE & CRAFT BEER PAIRINGS:
This cheese suits Mellow or Bold wine styles, such as a Syrah or Spanish Rioja wine. Silky white wine style, such as a Sauvignon Blanc from Sancerre region in Loire Valley, France. For craft beer, a natural partner would be British or American Brown Ales.

WINESTYLES: Bold or Mellow red wines or  Silky white wines.
BEERSTYLES: Fruity & Spicy

Information © Zuercher & Co. – All Rights Reserved.

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If you enjoy pairing cheese with wine, this is your club!  Each month you’ll discover specialty and artisan cheeses to pair with your Wine Club. Monthly cheese selections are chosen by your local WineStyles participating location. It’s the perfect opportunity to Taste, Learn and Enjoy® amazing artisan cheese every month! Only $19.99/month and your wine won’t be lonely!  Click to learn more >

May Beer Club: Iowa

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This month, our Beer Club members will enjoy a six pack of Unibroue’s best ales and a Cherry Chouffe Belgium Ale from Brasserie D’Achouffe.

Unibroue Mix
Variety Six Pack
Chambly, Quebec, Canada 

Unibroue_belgium_Variety PackIncluded in Variety Pack:

  • Blanche Chambly
  • Maudite
  • Don de Dieu
  • Trois Pistoles
  • La Fin du Monde
  • Ce N’est Pas la Fin du Monde

Bouteille_Blanche_de_Chambly_Bottle_Image

Unibroue
Blanche Chambly
Quebec, Canada

Featuring a straw-colored body and thick head, with a nose that features a subtle bouquet of spices, citrus notes, yeast bread, coriander and cloves. The palate has notes of wheat, orange and spices. It has good sugar/acidity balance with a honey finish.

Brewery’s Notes: This highly awarded beer was named in honor of Fort Chambly, the proud emblem of the city where our beer is brewed.

ABV: 5% alcohol / volume
Style:Belgian-style Wheat Ale
Beer Style:Fruity & Spicy
IBU: 10
Fermentation: Top
SRM: 4
Color: Pale golden
Serving Temperature: 39ºF-43ºF
Food Pairings: White fish, salads, and goat cheese
International Awards: 25 Gold, 15 Silver and 6 Bronze

Accueil_Maudite Bottle ImageUnibroue
Maudite
Quebec, Canada

Wrapped in a red cloak, this aromatic and complex beer reveals a scent of malt, orange, and spices with additional aromas or coriander, cloves and hoppy floral notes. The palate is velvety with notes of caramelized sugar and marmalade, slight roasted with a spicy finish.

Brewery’s Notes: It evokes the Quebec legend of La Chasse-galerie – or flying canoe – which tells the tale of men who would risk anything for a night of fun, even making a pact with the devil.

ABV: 8% alcohol / volume
Style: Dubbel
Beer Style: Fruity & Spicy
IBU: 22
Fermentation: Top
SRM: 18
Color: Red amber
Serving Temperature: 54ºF-57ºF
Food Pairings: Spicy dishes, Crême brûlée, and strong-tasting soft washed-rind cheeses
International Awards: 23 Gold, 14 Silver and 4 Bronze

Accueil_DDD_Bottle ImageUnibroue
Don de Dieu
Quebec, Canada

This sweet and full-bodied white beer packs a serious punch with aromas of vanilla and fruitcake, beeswax, flowers and honey. The palate has a sweet alcohol flavor with notes of banana, hops and spices.

Brewery’s Notes: Every sip is a memorable moment, like the historic day when French explorers met with the First Nations people who came out to greet the Don de Dieu, the ship carrying Samuel de Champlain.

ABV: 9% alcohol / volume
Style: Belgian-Style Imperial Wheat Ale
Beer Style: Fruity & Spicy
IBU: 10.5
Fermentation: Top
SRM: 5
Color: Blonde
Serving Temperature: 46ºF-54ºF
Food Pairings: White meats, mild sausages, and goat cheese
International Awards: 23 Gold and 6 Silver 

Accueil_3Pistoles_Bottle ImageUnibroue
Trois Pistoles
Quebec, Canada

Crafted with four types of malt and just as many exotic spices, this deep brown ale has a strong malt flavor on the nose that is slightly roasted with aromas of chocolate, brown rum, spices and herbs. It has a full-bodied palate with notes of lightly smoked rum, grains, herbs and spices.

Brewery’s Notes: Who can tame this powerful beast, the proud descendant of Trois-Pistoles’ legendary Black Horse?

ABV: 9% alcohol / volume
Style: Belgian-Style Dark Strong Ale
Beer Style: Fruity & Spicy
IBU: 15.5
Fermentation: Haute
SRM: 32.2
Color: Brown with burgundy hues
Serving Temperature: 54ºF-57ºF
Food Pairings: Braised beef, game, and triple-cream cheeses
International Awards: 1 Platinum, 22 Gold, 15 Silver and 2 Bronze

Bouteille_FDM_Bottle ImageUnibroue
La Fin du Monde
Quebec, Canada

This rich and sophisticated golden tripel has earned several international titles thanks to its refined taste marked by notes of grains, fruit and spice, supported by a slight bitterness. It has a floral bouquet and fresh baguette with aromas of honey, spices, coriander, malt and alcohol. It features a mildly hoppy palate with notes of grains, fruit and spice followed by a smooth, dry finish. The perfect balance of sugar, acidity, bitterness, spices and alcohol.

Brewery’s Notes: It is a tribute to Quebec, the land encountered by 16th-century French explorers who thought they’d reached the end of the world.

ABV: 9% alcohol / volume
Style: Tripel
Beer Style: Fruity & Spicy
IBU: 19
Fermentation: Top
SRM: 5.5
Color: Blonde
Serving Temperature: 46ºF-54ºF
Food Pairings: Seafood, sausages, and blue cheese
International Awards: 13 Platinum, 35 Gold, 8 Silver and 5 Bronze

Accueil_CPFDM_Bottle ImageUnibroue
Ce N’est Pas La Fin Du Monde
Quebec, Canada

This golden ale has notes of barley candy, cloves, yeast, peaches and tropical fruit, resinous and spicy hops on the nose. The palate highlights flavors of cereal, tropical and stone fruit, cloves, sweet pepper, and boreal. It’s herbaceous and bitter with a warmth from the alcohol.

Brewery’s Notes: This deliciously hoppy golden ale combines the complexity of a Belgian tripel with the power of New World IPAs. It’s cultural fusion at its best. Just like the French voyageurs who explored the interior of the continent in search of new horizons, now it’s your turn to embark on an adventure.

ABV: 9.5% alcohol / volume
Style: Triple du Nouveau Monde
Beer Style: Fruity & Spicy
IBU: 50
Fermentation: Top
SRM: 5.5
Hops: Galaxy, Willamette, Cascade and Simcoe
Color: Golden
Serving Temperature: 46ºF-50ºF
Food Pairings: Spicy fish tacos, pineapple upside-down cake, and old cheddar cheeses
International Awards: 1 Silver 

ABOUT UNIBROUE BREWERY:
Founded in 1992, Unibroue is a team of pioneers of craft beer in Quebec, Canada. From their first brew of Blanche de Chambly, Unibroue is now a team of a hundred artisans with a shared passion for distinctive premium beers. Their ultra-modern site in Chambly, Quebec produces beers with unique flavor profiles through ancestral inspiration by Belgium traditions. To date, the brewery has accumulated more than 400 international awards and honors, making Unibroue the most-awarded brewery in Canada. Learn more here.

Photos and information © Unibroue – All Rights Reserved.

cherry-chouffe_bottle imageBrasserie D’Achouffe
Cherry Chouffe
Achouffe, Wallonie, Belgium

The aroma of Cherry Chouffe reveals notes of cherry, strawberry, almond, spices and sweet Port. It is round-bodied, soft and delicate with a satisfying finish and a very slight bitterness.

ABV: 8% alcohol / volume
Style: Belgium Style Ale
Beer Style: Fruity & Spicy
Serving Recommendation: Serve at 39.2ºF-50ºF in a room temperature glass. When pouring your beer, tilt your glass to a 45º angle and pour in 2/3 of the beer. With the glass upright, pour in the rest to get a wonderfully thick and creamy head. Enjoy!
Food Pairings: Tomatoes, red peppers, red cabbage, cauliflower, fennel, oysters, duck breast, stewed game dishes, almonds, raspberries, cherries and strawberries
International Awards: 2019 World Beer Awards – Belgium Bronze; 2020 World Beer Awards – Gold

ABOUT BRASSERIE D’ACHOUFEE BREWERY:
Initially considered a hobby, the Achouffe Brewery developed when brother-in-laws decided to purchase the farm in which they had been brewing for 4 years. Then, one after the other, they embarked on their venture full time in 1986. As the brewery grew, so did its family of gnomes, each representing one of the beers in the range, and each having their own story and characteristics. Learn more about Marcel (La Chouffe) here & learn more about the brewery here.

Try pairing your Cherry CHOUFFE with a Chouffe-Style Cauliflower!

CHERRY-CHOUFFE_recette_chou-fleur_1200

© Brasserie D’Achouffe

CHOUFFE-STYLE CAULIFLOWER:
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Serves 4

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup water
  • ½ cup flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 pinch chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons butter (or margarine)
  • 1 drop of chili sauce
  • 1 cauliflower
  • salt
  • 4 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • black sesame seeds
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 2 oz. of gorgonzola
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped tarragon

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425ºF degrees.
  2. Combine the water, flour, paprika, cumin, cilantro and chili into a smooth paste.
  3. Melt the butter with the drop of chili sauce and a little salt. Add to the paste.
  4. Cut the cauliflower into florets. Dip them into paste and place them on a sheet of baking paper on a baking tray.
  5. Roast the cauliflower in the oven for 10 minutes.
  6. Meanwhile, mix the ketchup, the honey, and the hot sauce. Brush the florets with the spicy sauce and return them to the oven for 3 more minutes.
  7. Mix the mayonnaise with the sour cream, the tarragon, and the gorgonzola.
  8. Before serving, top the cauliflower with the cheese sauce.
  9. Finish by sprinkling the whole thing with sesame seeds.

Photos and information © Brasserie D’Achouffe – All Rights Reserved.

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May Sweet Club: Iowa

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Sweet Wine ClubConfetti_2021_Sweet_Pink_Grapefruit_Bottle ImageCONFETTI!
Sweet Pink Grapefruit
Trentino, Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

This citrusy, semi-sparkling aromatized wine is delicate and shiny coral pink in color. The nose is well-balanced and intense with long hints of ripe grapefruit. The palate is lively with an endearing, creamy foam and evident fragrance of grapefruit. Perfect for brunch and impromptu drinks with the crew! Serve chilled.

Analysis: 5.0% alcohol / volume
RS: 90
Country: Italy
Region: Various
Closure: Screw cap
Pairing: Pretzels, ricotta flatbread and your famous charcuterie board

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: These sweet wines from our ‘Nectar’ section will pair well with a soft cheese, such as brie or ricotta. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Confetti_2021_Sweet_Peach_Rendering_v3CONFETTI!
Sweet Summer Peach
Trentino, Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

This semi-sparkling aromatized wine presents a nice and shiny, straw-yellow color with hues of green. It has definite and intense notes of white peach on the nose that are complex, elegant, and refined. The palate is pleasant with a creamy foam and a perfect balance between nice sweetness and acidity. There are notes of sweet, luscious peach and apricot with hints of honey with a little fizz.

Analysis: 5.0% alcohol / volume
Country: Italy
Region: Various
Closure: Screw cap
Pairing: Fresh fruit and fruit tarts

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: These sweet wines from our ‘Nectar’ section will pair well with an herbal or spicy cheese. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Information © CONFETTI! & Palm Bay International – All Rights Reserved.

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