Tag Archives: April Wine Club

Rangel Ranch Zinfandel

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Vanilla Cheesecake with Berries Vanilla Cheesecake with Berry Compote

INGREDIENTS:

  • For the Crust:
    • 2 package Bahlsen Waffeletten cookies
    • 2 cups crushed butter crackers (approx. 30)
    • 4 tablespoons butter, melted
  • For the Cheesecake:
    • ½ cup whole milk
    • 2 vanilla bean pods, cut half lengthwise
    • 2 pounds cream cheese, room temperature
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 4 large eggs
    • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
    • 4 ounces white chocolate, chopped
  • For the Mixed Berry Compote:
    • 1 cup raspberries
    • 1 cup blueberries
    • 1 cup strawberries
    • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
    • ¼ cup granulated sugar

DIRECTIONS:

  1. For the Crust:
    1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
    2. Add the Bahlsen Waffeletten Cookies and crackers to your food processor and pulse until finely chopped; then slowly pour in the butter until well combined.
    3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a lightly buttered 8-inch springform pan; then bake for 5 minutes. Remove and allow to cool.
  2. For the Cheesecake:
    1. Add the milk to a small saucepan; then scrape off as much of the vanilla beans into the milk as you can using the back of a knife. Add the vanilla bean pods to the milk; then warm over medium heat. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
    2. Combine the cream cheese and sugar in your stand mixer until creamy; then add the eggs, vanilla and cooled milk.
    3. Mix until creamy; then stir in the white chocolate by hand and pour into the cooled crust.
    4. Place the cheesecake on a baking sheet and add 2 cups of water to the pan so that you create a water bath for the springform pan.
    5. Bake on the middle oven rack for approximately 50-60 minutes or until top is lightly brown and the top springs back when gently touched. Remove from the oven and allow to cool before refrigerating.
    6. Top with the mixed berry compote when ready to serve.
  3. For the Mixed Berry Compote:
    1. Add all ingredients to a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

© Recipe courtesy of Carrie’s Experimental Kitchen.

APRIL WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoRangel-Ranch-North-Coast-Zinfandel-bottleRangel Ranch
Zinfandel
North Coast, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

This Zinfandel is medium-bodied with notes of dark cherry, raspberry and spice wrapped in gentle oak. 

Varietal: Zinfandel
Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.51
TA: 0.57%
RS: 0.51%
Pairing: BBQ, smoked cheeses, salami, spicy cuisine, and cheesecake with berry compote

Winemaking:
Stainless steel fermentation at 90ºF; daily pump over, aged 18 months in American Oak barrels.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Rangel Ranch focuses on the traditions of their family making and enjoying food friendly wines. Their wines reflect their family history and heritage in every bottle of their Napa County and North Coast releases. Vintage to vintage, winemaker, Paul Scotto, focuses on wine profiles that have held wide appeal through the decades and remain true to the Rangel family traditions. The reds are oak accented with soft tannins and ready to enjoy right away; while the whites are unoaked, crisp and medium bodied.

ABOUT SCOTTO CELLARS:

The family’s vinous heritage and history dates back to 1883 when Salvatore Dominic Scotto, an officer in the Italian Navy, began making wine at his home on the Island of Ischia, just off the coast of Italy.  In addition to making wine for his family (a long-held custom in Italy), Salvatore also treated his friends and neighbors to the fruits of his labor. 

Great-great grandpa Salvatore passed his skills along to his son Dominic, who migrated to Brooklyn in 1903 and continued the family’s winemaking tradition in America. He carried on the Scotto heritage with his sons who sold their father’s homemade wine in five-gallon crocks from the family’s horse drawn cart. After Prohibition, Anthony Sr. and his older brother Sal created Villa Armando (nicknamed Rustico).  Rustico is still produced today and has filled 200,000,000 glasses since its inception, making it one of California’s oldest wine brands.

Today Scotto Cellars is a 5th-generation family-owned and managed wine producing company.  They take pride in treating team members not only as collaborators but also as family members who are encouraged to think creatively and live with a can-do attitude. For five generations the Scotto family has embraced the Old World traditions of sharing meals and celebrating meaningful moments with friends.  Wine has always been a centerpiece of these events and a reflection of Scotto’s Italian heritage they so proudly embrace.  Read more >

Scotto Cellars 5th Generation

Information © Rangel Ranch – All Rights Reserved.

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Rangel Ranch Sauvignon Blanc

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Thai, Shrimps, Green, Curry.Easy Thai Shrimp Curry

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 red pepper sliced
  • 3 tablespoons green onions (whites parts, coarsely chopped)
  • 4 ounces green curry paste
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons coconut sugar
  • 1–15 ounce can coconut milk
  • 10 fresh basil leaves torn in pieces
  • salt to taste
  • 1 lime optional for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until it just starts to brown.
  2. Add the sliced red peppers and the white parts of the green onions and cook for 2 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.
  3. Add the curry paste and fry, while stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds. 
  4. Add the fish sauce, coconut sugar and coconut milk and bring to a simmer for 5 minutes. 
  5. Add the shrimp, turn off the heat and cover. Let it sit for 10 minutes, until the shrimp has turned pink and is cooked through.
  6. Once the shrimp is cooked, stir in the basil leaves and add any additional salt to taste. Squeeze a touch of fresh lime juice over the top for an extra fresh burst of flavor. 

© Recipe courtesy of Went Here 8 This.

APRIL WINE CLUB:

Silky styleRangel-Ranch-Napa-County-Sauv-Blanc-bottleRangel Ranch
Sauvignon Blanc
Napa County, California

SILKY WINE STYLE

The nose is filled with lime, citrus and quince aromatics supported by fragrant floral and mineral notes with a subtle herbal accent.

Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
Analysis: 13.7% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.13
TA: 0.63%
RS: 0.06%
Pairing: Thai cuisine, seafood dishes, charcuterie, grilled vegetables, and bright fruit desserts like lemon tarts

Winemaking:
Fermented in a combination of stainless steel tanks and custom coopered oak followed by 14 months in barrel; very dry, excellent balance.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Rangel Ranch focuses on the traditions of their family making and enjoying food friendly wines. Their wines reflect their family history and heritage in every bottle of their Napa County and North Coast releases. Vintage to vintage, winemaker, Paul Scotto, focuses on wine profiles that have held wide appeal through the decades and remain true to the Rangel family traditions. The reds are oak accented with soft tannins and ready to enjoy right away; while the whites are unoaked, crisp and medium bodied.

ABOUT SCOTTO CELLARS:

The family’s vinous heritage and history dates back to 1883 when Salvatore Dominic Scotto, an officer in the Italian Navy, began making wine at his home on the Island of Ischia, just off the coast of Italy.  In addition to making wine for his family (a long-held custom in Italy), Salvatore also treated his friends and neighbors to the fruits of his labor. 

Great-great grandpa Salvatore passed his skills along to his son Dominic, who migrated to Brooklyn in 1903 and continued the family’s winemaking tradition in America. He carried on the Scotto heritage with his sons who sold their father’s homemade wine in five-gallon crocks from the family’s horse drawn cart. After Prohibition, Anthony Sr. and his older brother Sal created Villa Armando (nicknamed Rustico).  Rustico is still produced today and has filled 200,000,000 glasses since its inception, making it one of California’s oldest wine brands.

Today Scotto Cellars is a 5th-generation family-owned and managed wine producing company.  They take pride in treating team members not only as collaborators but also as family members who are encouraged to think creatively and live with a can-do attitude. For five generations the Scotto family has embraced the Old World traditions of sharing meals and celebrating meaningful moments with friends.  Wine has always been a centerpiece of these events and a reflection of Scotto’s Italian heritage they so proudly embrace.  Read more >

Scotto Cellars 5th Generation

Information © Rangel Ranch – All Rights Reserved.

Wine club logoJoin our WINE CLUB and enjoy these amazing wines and pairing recipes each month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

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April Wine Club Pairing Recipe

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Stuffed Mushrooms

Classic Stuffed Mushrooms

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 ½ pounds white mushrooms cleaned, stems removed
  • stems from mushrooms finely diced
  • 1 sweet onion finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 8 tablespoons butter
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs*
  • 1 cup grated Romano cheese**
  • Kosher salt
  • pepper

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat oven 400°F.
  2. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the stems and onions until the onions are softened and translucent. This should take about 10 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic and sauté until fragrant. Remove from heat.
  4. Stir in breadcrumbs and Romano cheese. Season with salt and pepper. The cheese is salty, so make sure you taste first then salt.
  5. Stuff the mushrooms with the filling. Use a teaspoon to fill each cap, then pile more on top using the spoon to form a mound.
  6. Place on a parchment or foil lined baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the tops are golden.

© Recipe courtesy of The Genetic Chef.

APRIL WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoRangel-Ranch-North-Coast-Cabernet-Sauvignon-bottleRangel Ranch
Cabernet Sauvignon
North Coast, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

This North Coast Cabernet Sauvignon is medium to full-bodied with multi-layered flavors of dark plums and blackberries with gentle tannins.

Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.59
Total Acidity: 0.52%
Residual Sugars: 0.30%
Pairing: Stuffed mushrooms, spaghetti with meatballs, prime rib or roasted potatoes

Winemaking:
Fermented 12 days on the skins at 90ºF. Pumped over 3-4 times daily. Aged 18 months in French and American Oak Barrels.

ABOUT RANGEL RANCH:
Rangel Ranch focuses on the traditions of their family making and enjoying food friendly wines. Their wines reflect their family history and heritage in every bottle of their Napa County and North Coast releases. Vintage to vintage, winemaker, Paul Scotto, focuses on wine profiles that have held wide appeal through the decades and remain true to the Rangel family traditions. The reds are oak accented with soft tannins and ready to enjoy right away; while the whites are unoaked, crisp and medium bodied.

ABOUT SCOTTO CELLARS:

The family’s vinous heritage and history dates back to 1883 when Salvatore Dominic Scotto, an officer in the Italian Navy, began making wine at his home on the Island of Ischia, just off the coast of Italy.  In addition to making wine for his family (a long-held custom in Italy), Salvatore also treated his friends and neighbors to the fruits of his labor. 

Great-great grandpa Salvatore passed his skills along to his son Dominic, who migrated to Brooklyn in 1903 and continued the family’s winemaking tradition in America. He carried on the Scotto heritage with his sons who sold their father’s homemade wine in five-gallon crocks from the family’s horse drawn cart. After Prohibition, Anthony Sr. and his older brother Sal created Villa Armando (nicknamed Rustico).  Rustico is still produced today and has filled 200,000,000 glasses since its inception, making it one of California’s oldest wine brands.

Today Scotto Cellars is a 5th-generation family-owned and managed wine producing company.  They take pride in treating team members not only as collaborators but also as family members who are encouraged to think creatively and live with a can-do attitude. For five generations the Scotto family has embraced the Old World traditions of sharing meals and celebrating meaningful moments with friends.  Wine has always been a centerpiece of these events and a reflection of Scotto’s Italian heritage they so proudly embrace.  Read more >

Scotto Cellars 5th Generation

Information © Rangel Ranch – All Rights Reserved.

Wine club logoJoin our WINE CLUB and enjoy these amazing wines and pairing recipes each month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

Learn about our Memberships >

 
 
 

 

Casas das Gaeiras Óbidos DOC

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Sautéed Fish with Mustard Tarragon Cream Sauce

INGREDIENTS:

  • 16 ounces mild white fish (orange roughy, haddock, cod)*
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil
  • sea salt (to your taste)
  • 2 tablespoons shallot peeled and minced
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • ½ cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard
  • 1 teaspoon fresh tarragon

DIRECTIONS:

  1. *If using frozen fish, completely defrost according to package directions.
  2. Dry fish completely and set aside. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add avocado oil.
  3. When skillet is hot, sprinkle the fish with salt and add the fish to the pan. It should sizzle when it goes in the pan. If it doesn’t sizzle, your pan isn’t hot enough. Be sure the sides of the fish don’t touch. Do not move the fish until it releases from the pan. When it releases, turn the fish. When second side is done, remove fish from the pan. Place on a plate and keep warm.
  4. Add shallots to the pan and cook until edges start to brown.
  5. Stir in white wine vinegar. Using a spatula, scrape up any brown bits left in the pan. When vinegar is almost completely evaporated, pour in the heavy whipping cream.
  6. Heat the sauce, stirring frequently, until it reaches the desired thickness. Next, stir in the mustard and tarragon. Taste the sauce and add salt to taste. To serve, spoon the sauce over the fish.

© Recipe courtesy of Simply So Healthy.

APRIL WINE CLUB:

Casa-das-Gaeiras-VBSilky styleCasa das Gaeiras
Óbidos DOC White Wine
Lisboa, Portugal

SILKY WINE STYLE

The DOC Óbidos White Wine has floral aromas, combined with fruity lemon and pineapple notes reflect the freshness of this wine – characteristic of this terroir.

Varietals: Arinto, Chardonnay and Fernão Pires
Analysis: 13% alcohol / volume
Region: Lisboa, Portugal
Total Acidity: 5 +/-1
pH: 3.3 +/-0.5
Fermentation: Fermented in stainless steel vats
Serving Temperature: 60.8ºF-64.4ºF
Harvest: September and October
Winemaker: Tiago Correia
Critical Acclaim: 89 Points and Best Buy by Wine Enthusiast 2020

ABOUT CASA DAS GAEIRAS:
Casa das Gaeiras is often considered a little Chateaux in the Óbidos region, where niche wines are produced in limited production to reflect the tradition of the wines in this region. The excellent terroir allows winemaker Tiago Correia (pictured below) to produce high-quality wines, recognized for their wonderful freshness and minerality – both nationally and internationally. Learn more about Parras Wines and Casa Das Gaeiras here.

Casa-das-gaeiras

Wine club logoJoin our WINE CLUB and enjoy these amazing wines and pairing recipes each month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

Learn More >

 

Costa Lusa IG Lisboa Red Wine

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Shepherd's-Pie-With-Ground-Beef-Potato-And-Cheese-On-WoodenShepherd’s Pie

INGREDIENTS:

  • For the Potatoes:
    • 1 ½ pounds russet potatoes
    • ¼ cup half-and-half
    • 2 ounces unsalted butter
    • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
    • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
    • 1 egg yolk
  • For the Meat Filling:
    • 2 tablespoons canola oil
    • 1 cup chopped onion
    • 2 carrots, peeled and diced small
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 ½ pounds ground lamb
    • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
    • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
    • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
    • 2 teaspoons tomato paste
    • 1 cup chicken broth
    • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
    • 2 teaspoons freshly chopped rosemary leaves
    • 1 teaspoon freshly chopped thyme leaves
    • ½ cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
    • ½ cup fresh or frozen English peas

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Peel the potatoes and cut into 1/2-inch dice. Place in a medium saucepan and cover with cold water. Set over high heat, cover and bring to a boil. Once boiling, uncover, decrease the heat to maintain a simmer and cook until tender and easily crushed with tongs, approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Place the half-and-half and butter into a microwave-safe container and heat in the microwave until warmed through, about 35 seconds. Drain the potatoes in a colander and then return to the saucepan. Mash the potatoes and then add the half and half, butter, salt and pepper and continue to mash until smooth. Stir in the yolk until well combined.
  2. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
  3. While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the filling. Place the canola oil into a 12-inch sauté pan and set over medium high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the onion and carrots and sauté just until they begin to take on color, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Add the garlic and stir to combine. Add the lamb, salt and pepper and cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 3 minutes. Sprinkle the meat with the flour and toss to coat, continuing to cook for another minute. Add the tomato paste, chicken broth, Worcestershire, rosemary, thyme, and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer slowly 10 to 12 minutes or until the sauce is thickened slightly.
  4. Add the corn and peas to the lamb mixture and spread evenly into an 11 x 7-inch glass baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, starting around the edges to create a seal to prevent the mixture from bubbling up and smooth with a rubber spatula. Place on a parchment lined half sheet pan on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 25 minutes or just until the potatoes begin to brown.

© Recipe courtesy of Alton Brown from Food Network.

APRIL WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoCosta Lusa Lisboa_Red_wineCosta Lusa
Lisboa Red Wine IG
Lisboa, Portugal

BOLD WINE STYLE

Ruby red in color with red fruit aromas, the IG Lisboa red wine has a rounded palate with ripe tannins and an elegant finish.

Varietal: Touriga Nacional, Aragonez and Castelão
Analysis: 13% alcohol / volume
Region: Lisboa, Portugal
Total Acidity: 5.5 +/-1
pH: 3.5 +/-0.5
Fermentation: Fermented in small, stainless steel vats
Serving Temperature: 60.8ºF-64.4ºF
Winemaker: Carlos Eduardo

REGION:
The Geographical Indication (IG) Lisbon is one of the most important Portuguese wine regions, in terms of vineyard area and wine production. Formed by gentle hills, of low relief, IG Lisboa extends from the capital of Portugal to the north, along the coast. The multifaceted region encompasses several denominations of origin, ancient and modern, with distinct characteristics. The climate is temperate, influenced by the Atlantic ocean, with relatively mild summers, and warmer and drier in the areas protected by Montejunto mountain.

Wine club logoJoin our WINE CLUB and enjoy these amazing wines and pairing recipes each month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

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April Wine Club Pairing Recipe

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© Photo from the Olive Magazine

Portuguese Prego with Green Piri-Piri

INGREDIENTS:

  • Sandwich:
    • 1 clove garlic, crushed
    • 2 small rump steaks (about 150g each), all fat trimmed
    • 2 tbsp olive oil 
    • 1 tbsp sherry vinegar 
    • few stalks of flat-leaf parsley 
    • 2 ciabatta rolls, lightly toasted
    • 2 handfuls of Arugula 
  • Green Piri-Piri Sauce:
    • small handful of basil leaves
    • small handful of flat-leaf parsley leaves
    • 1 jalapeño, roughly chopped
    • 1 tbsp sherry vinegar
    • 2 spring onions, chopped, including green bits
    • ½ a clove of garlic, roughly chopped
    • ½ tsp granulated sugar

DIRECTIONS:

  • STEP 1: Rub the garlic over the steaks then put in a sandwich bag and tip in the olive oil, sherry vinegar and parsley stalks. Smooth everything together, then use a rolling pin to bash the steaks a few times. Leave to marinate for 1-2 hours. 

  • STEP 2: To make the sauce, put all the ingredients into the blender with 1 tbsp water and whizz until as smooth as possible. This will make more than you’ll need for the recipe, but will keep for a week in an airtight jar.

  • STEP 3: Heat a griddle or frying pan to high. Remove the steaks from the bag, brushing away the garlic and parsley stalks. Season the steaks well with salt and pepper, then sear the steaks for 2 minutes on each side. Set them aside on a plate to rest. Cut the ciabatta rolls in half, then toast on the griddle or frying pan. Then, put the ciabatta halves onto the plate, toasted side down, to soak up any juices. 

  • STEP 4: Slice the steaks, then top the rolls with the green sauce and arugula. Enjoy!

© Recipe courtesy of Olive Magazine.

APRIL WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoCasadasGaeiras-VTCasa das Gaeiras
DOC Obidos Red
Lisboa, Portugal

BOLD WINE STYLE

The DOC Óbidos Red wine has distinct notes of blackberries and blackcurrant with hints of coffee, and subtle nuances of cloves and black pepper. All flavors are in balance with the body and freshness of the wine.

Varietal: Syrah, Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz
Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
Region: Lisboa
Total Acidity: 5.5 +/-1
pH: 3.5 +/-0.5
Fermentation: Fermented in stainless steel vats
Serving Temperature: 60.8ºF-64.4ºF
Harvest: September and October
Winemaker: Tiago Correia
Critical Acclaim:

  • Gold in Berliner Wein Trophy 2020
  • 90 Points and Best Buy by Wine Enthusiast 2020

THE REGION:
The Geographical Indication (IG) Lisbon is one of the most important Portuguese wine regions, in terms of vineyard area and wine production. Formed by gentle hills, of low relief, IG Lisboa extends from the capital of Portugal to the north, along the coast, in a range not exceeding 40 km wide. This multifaceted region encompasses several denominations of origin, ancient and modern, with distinct characteristics. The climate is temperate, influenced by the Atlantic ocean, with relatively mild summers, cooler and wetter in the areas closer to the sea, warmer and drier in the areas protected by Montejunto mountain.

ABOUT CASA DAS GAEIRAS:
Casa das Gaeiras can be considered Parras Wines’ little Chateaux in the Óbidos region, where niche wines are produced in limited production to reflect the tradition of the wines in this region. The excellent terroir allows their winemaker to produce high-quality wines, recognized for their wonderful freshness and minerality – both nationally and internationally. Learn more about Parras Wines and Casa Das Gaeiras here.

Casa-das-gaeiras

Wine club logoJoin our WINE CLUB and enjoy these amazing wines and pairing recipes each month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

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Château Roc de Candale

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tagliatelles-aux-morilles-et-champignons-de-paris-entete

© Photo by Les Vins de Saint-Emilion

Tagliatelle with Morels and Paris Mushrooms

This mushroom pasta pairs beautifully with the notes from the Merlot and Cabernet Franc blend of Château Roc de Candale. We have found a French recipe from the Saint-Émilion region in France, however, for ingredients more easily accessible in the United States, this Creamy Pasta with Mushrooms from Bon Appétit is a good alternative to try.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1.1 lbs (500 g) fresh Tagliatelle pasta
  • 1/3 cup (25 g) dried morels (or substitute dried porcini or shiitake mushrooms)
  • 1 cup (250 g) fresh Paris mushrooms (substitute white or Crimini mushrooms)
  • 1 leek (white part)
  • 1 yellow onion
  • 16.9 fl. oz. or about 2 cups (50 cl) light cream (about 18% fat content)
  • sunflower oil
  • nut oil
  • salt and pepper

DIRECTIONS:

  1. The day before, rehydrate the mushrooms in water for half an hour. Rinse to remove sand and then soak them again in 2 cups (50 cl) of fresh cream. Place the preparation in the refrigerator overnight.
  2. The next day, drain the mushrooms and keep the liquid cream. Peel and cut the Paris mushrooms into thin strips. Slice the leek and onion.
  3. Sauté the onion, leek and mushrooms in an oiled pan. Add salt and pepper. Wet it if necessary.
  4. After ten minutes, add the fresh cream, filtered through a fine sieve. Stir regularly and adjust seasoning. Cook for 10 minutes.
  5. When cooked, boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the Tagliatelle.
  6. Once the pasta is cooked and drained, serve immediately, if you like, with a drizzle of walnut oil from Périgord.

© Recipe courtesy of Les Vins de Saint-Emilion.

APRIL WINE CLUB:

Mellow style logoChateau-Roc-de-Candale-bottle-webMagali & Thibaut Decoster Vineyards
Château Roc de Candale
Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, France

MELLOW WINE STYLE

Château Roc de Candale has a bright purple color. The flattering bouquet is charming thanks to fine notes of spices. The wine is immediately pleasing with notes of fresh, ripe and juicy fruits. Château Roc de Candale offers sophisticated and spontaneous enjoyment.

Varietal: 90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc
Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
Harvest: By hand, in small crates
Average Yield: 25 hl/ha
Vinification: Soaking, pigeages (punching down the cap), and malolactic fermentation in barrels
Fermentation: 30 days
Vats: Wooden
Aging: 12 months in barrels
Production: 23,000 Bottles
Oenologist Consultant: Stéphane Derenoncourt

ABOUT THE VINEYARD
Château Roc de Candale was previously called Vieux Château Haut Béard. Its vineyard is close to that of Château de Candale and is planted at the foot of Saint-Emilion’s south-facing slope. The former owner brought together the two estates when he acquired Vieux Château Haut Béard after having purchased Château de Candale. Today, each growth has its own vineyard and cellar. In this way, the identity and style of each of them are preserved. 
Château Roc de Candale is planted on a more clay-silt terroir which gives the wine greater suppleness in its early years. Being less complex than its neighbor, it is a wine for more immediate enjoyment. Learn more here. 

ABOUT DECOSTER VINEYARDS:

Their story began in 2004 when Thibaut and Magali became wine-growers at Clos des Jacobins, though they had little ties to the world of wine-growing. Both came from Limoges, and they studied business and marketing in France and England. Eventually, Thibaut moved to the Bordeaux area and was taken on as a vineyard worker at a wine estate in Léognan. There, for a period of 3 years in the field, he practiced all the vine-growing tasks required to produce high-end reds and whites. In 2003, an opportunity came along for Thibaut and Magali to set up in Saint-Émilion. Clos des Jacobins and Château La Commanderie were up for sale, and one year later Thibaut and Magali were the new owners of the estates. Learn more about their story here. 

© Photo by Magali et Thibaut Decoster
© Photo by Magali et Thibaut Decoster
© Photo by Magali et Thibaut Decoster

Wine club logoJoin our WINE CLUB and enjoy these amazing wines and pairing recipes each month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

Learn More >

Pierre Jean Sauvignon Blanc

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maryland-crab-cakes

© Photo by Sally’s Baking Addiction

Maryland Crab Cakes 

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 Large egg
  • ¼ cup (60g) mayonnaise
  • 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried)
  • 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (up to 1 and ½ teaspoons for a spicier kick)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, plus more for serving
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 pound fresh lump crab meat*
  • 2/3 cup Saltine cracker crumbs (about 14 crackers)
  • Optional: 2 Tablespoons (30g) melted salted or unsalted butter

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Whisk the egg, mayonnaise, parsley, dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay, lemon juice, and salt together in a large bowl. Place the crab meat on top, followed by the cracker crumbs. With a rubber spatula or large spoon, very gently and carefully fold together. You don’t want to break up that crab meat.
  2. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 1 day.
  3. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). Generously grease a rimmed baking sheet with butter or nonstick spray or line with a silicone baking mat.
  4. Using a ½ cup measuring cup, portion the crab cake mixture into 6 mounds on the baking sheet (don’t flatten). Use your hands or a spoon to compact each individual mound so there aren’t any lumps sticking out or falling apart. For extra flavor, brush each with melted butter. This is optional but recommended!
  5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges and on top. Drizzle each with fresh lemon juice and serve warm.
  6. Cover leftover crab cakes tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

© Recipe courtesy of Sally’s Baking Addiction

APRIL WINE CLUB:

Silky styleJean-Pierre-Sauvignon-Blanc-bottle-webPierre Jean
Sauvignon Blanc
Côtes de Gasgone, France

SILKY WINE STYLE

Classically French with lively aromas of wildflower, lemongrass, apple and pear with a nuance of flint.  Delicious flavors of mandarin orange, peach, apple and pear lead to a crisp, long finish with racy acidity and more of that flinty terroir.  This wine is an ideal aperitif or will complement almost any light summer cuisine.

Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Analysis: 11% alcohol / volume
Appellation: Côtes de Gascogne
Closure: Screw cap
Pairing: Serve between 50˚F-53.6˚F with aperitif, fresh fish, haddock, seafood, or salads

Côtes de Gascogne is located just south of Bordeaux, in the Gascony district and specializes in white wines. Most are local grape varieties but better-known varietals such as Sauvignon Blanc are borrowed from Bordeaux (to the north). About 60% of its wines are exported and young sommeliers have recently rediscovered this wine region. In 1979, an association of  Vin de Pays (country wine) was established and today includes 1400 wine farmers. The Pierre Jean brand is named after one of Yvon Mau’s grandsons, who developed the design for the bottle. The Pierre Jean series consists of very accessible wines that are a party every day. The beautifully styled bottle of course also contributes to this. 

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April Wine Club Pairing Recipe

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Beef Tenderloin with Roasted Shallots

Beef Tenderloin with Shallots

© Photo by All Recipes

INGREDIENTS:

  • ¾ pound shallots, halved lengthwise and peeled
  • 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • ¾ cup port wine
  • 1 ½ teaspoons tomato paste
  • 2 pounds beef tenderloin roast, trimmed
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 3 slices bacon, diced
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 4 sprigs watercress, for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9-inch pie pan, toss shallots with oil to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Roast until shallots are deep brown and very tender, stirring occasionally, about 30 minutes.
  2. In a large saucepan, combine beef broth and port. Bring to a boil. Cook over high heat until the volume is reduced by half, about 30 minutes. Whisk in tomato paste. Set aside.
  3. Pat beef dry; sprinkle with thyme, salt and pepper. In a large roasting pan, set over medium heat on the stove top, sauté bacon until golden. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to paper towels. Add beef to pan; brown on all sides over medium high heat, about 7 minutes.
  4. Transfer pan to oven. Roast beef until meat thermometer inserted into center registers 125°F (50°C) for medium rare, about 25 minutes. Transfer beef to platter. Tent loosely with foil.
  5. Spoon fat off top of pan drippings in roasting pan. Place pan over high heat on stove top. Add broth mixture, and bring to boil; stir to scrape up any browned bits. Transfer to a medium saucepan, and bring to simmer. Mix 1 ½ tablespoon butter and flour in small bowl to form smooth paste; whisk into broth mixture, and simmer until sauce thickens. Whisk in remaining butter. Stir in roasted shallots and reserved bacon. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Cut beef into ½ inch thick slices. Spoon some sauce over, and garnish with watercress.

© Recipe courtesy of Christine L. from All Recipes.

APRIL WINE CLUB:

Mellow style logoChateau-de-Bel-Air-Lalande-de-Pomerol-bottle-webChâteau de Bel-Air
Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon
Lalande de Pomerol, France

MELLOW WINE STYLE

On the nose, Château de Bel-Air presents notes of red fruit and floral aromas; on the palate, a harmonious balance between flesh and tannins means it can be enjoyed after just a few years of cellaring. A delicate wine that is a perfect partner for refined dishes.
 
Varietal: 73% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon
Analysis: 13-14% alcohol / volume
Viticulture: Culture Raisonnée, soil tilling or cover cropping
Harvest: Mechanical, with sorting in the cellar
Winemaking: Parcellary, in thermo-regulated concrete vats


Mentioned in the Cocks & Feret guides as one of the best wines of the appellation as early as 1922, Château de Bel-Air is situated on a sunny plateau that gently slopes southward. The historical quality of its wines and its privileged position, which guarantees the vineyard ideal sun exposure year-round, inspired owner Michel de Laet Derache to acquire the property in 2011. The vines, averaging 40 years of age, are planted on a terroir of gravel brought from the volcanic Massif Central by rivers during the quaternary era, with layers of iron rich clay. In order to best express the nuances of the site, the vineyard is managed and vinified plot by plot, with a respect for the different ages of the vines, varietals, and rootstocks. Vinification takes place in thermo-regulated concrete tanks. The wine is then mostly aged in oak barrels (45% new) for 12-18 months. 

© Photo by Moueix
© Photo by Moueix
© Photo by Moueix

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April Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubGoldschmidt_BlancdeNoir-NV-Bottle-Shot-webGoldschmidt Vineyards
Blanc de Noir Sparkling Wine
Sonoma County, California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Light copper-rose hues; Goldschmidt Blanc de Noir shows vibrant raspberry, bing cherry, and wild flower. A mix of zesty cherry, white peach, and fresh strawberry flavors mingle with medium-bodied bubbles to form a creamy palate. Subtle notes of honeysuckle linger in the finish.

Analysis: 12% alcohol / volume
Varietals: 53% Chardonnay, 39% Pinot Noir, 8% Pinot Meunier
Appellation: 100% Sonoma County
Vintage: NV
pH: 3.20
Dosage: 1.2
Cases Produced: 120

WINEMAKING:
“We make our sparkling wine not only to be lively and lifted in the nose but also to have complexity and longevity. The addition of Pinot Noir adds its characteristic tangy, red berry and orange flavors while the Chardonnay provides the main structure and liveliness. Producing white wine from a red grape is very difficult. We harvest in the cool morning and press very gently, balancing the bright fruit flavors with crisp acidity. By pressing this way we get less color and tannin. Barrel fermenting both the Chardonnay and the Pinot also adds more weight and body. Yeast contact in the bottle for two years brings all elements together with the yeast also providing its own elements of texture and creaminess. This wine will last up to 10 years under proper storage conditions.” – Goldschmidt Vineyards

FOOD PAIRING: Serve with soft cheeses – those with delicate flavors and smooth, creamy textures. In particular, try fresh, soft, and bloomy-rind cheeses made from cow’s milk, like Brie, Camembert, Brillat-Savarin, triple crème, or Chaource.  Try with macadamia nut-crushed halibut or pork tenderloin with fresh rosemary and lemon thyme.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Yolyn and Nick Goldschmidt are owner/vintners, and Nick is the winemaker. The winery offices are located in Healdsburg, California. Goldschmidt Vineyards is a vehicle by which Nick and Yolyn present their innovative way of wine making and wine presentation. There are two brands under their portfolio – the prestigious Goldschmidt Vineyard label and the international Forefathers label. The Goldschmidt Vineyard label is a program designed to showcase single vineyard source wines from both the Alexander Valley and Napa Valley Oakville appellations. The goal is create wines that highlight the distinct characters, benefits and attributes derived from these site specific harvests. Goldschmidt Vineyards Cabernets are crafted with the best possible resources to achieve exceptional richness, quality and balance – the hallmarks of world-class wines.

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