Tag Archives: August Wine Club

Jan Harmsgat Pinot Noir

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Flat,Breads,With,Lamb,Meatballs,,Yogurt,,Cucumber,And,TomatoesGRILLED LAMB MEATBALLS WITH MINT YOGURT

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 lb. ground lamb
  • 1 cup finely diced yellow onion
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 ¾ tsp ground cumin
  • 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
  • few cracks fresh black pepper
  • ¼ cup + 1 tbs tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 3 ounces crumbled feta cheese
  • 8 lemon wedges, for serving
  • grilled pita, for serving
  • Mint-Yogurt Sauce:
    • 1 cup Greek yogurt
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 ½ tbsp lemon juice
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • 1/3 cup chopped mint
    • salt to taste

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Begin by making the yogurt-mint sauce. Add all of the ingredients to a medium bowl and mix until combined. Season with salt to taste. Cover and set aside until ready to use.
  2. For the meatballs, add all of the ingredients for the lamb meatballs to a large bowl. Gently mix everything together with your hands, taking care not to over mix (this will ensure the meat stays tender).
  3. Roll the meat into 16, two-tablespoon-sized meatballs.
  4. Heat an outdoor grill to high heat. Lightly oil the grate, then place the meatballs on the grill and cook for 12 minutes, 6 minutes on each side. Alternatively, you can cook these meatballs on a lightly oiled grill pan set over medium-high heat, and cook for the same amount of time.
  5. Serve the meatballs with a large dollop of the mint-yogurt and with a wedge of lemon.

© Recipe courtesy of Kristan Raines from La Crema.

AUGUST WINE CLUB:

Mellow style logoJan-Harmsgat_Pinot-NoirJan Harmsgat
Pinot Noir
South Africa

MELLOW WINE STYLE

This Pinot Noir is light and soft in style. On the nose, there are notes of dark cherries and strawberries with a slight earthiness. The palate has a soft tannic structure and smooth texture.

Varietal: Pinot Noir
Analysis: 13% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.75
VA: 0.64
VS02: 26 mg/L
TS02: 62 mg/L
RS: 2.23 g/L
Wood Maturation: 3 Months, 225L French Oak, 4th fill.

WINEMAKER’S NOTES
The newest addition to the JHG boutique wine collection is the Pinot Noir. The very first attempt at making this wine, JHG won the trophy for the best Pinot Noir in the Robertson Wine Valley at the Young Wine Awards.

ABOUT JAN HARMSGAT:
Founded in 1723, the Jan Harmsgat Farm (JHG) is situated on the most southern tip of the Robertson wine valley, along the foothills of the Langeberg Mountains in the Western Cape of South Africa. This area is locally known as the “valley of wine and roses”. JHG’s philosophy is to create delicious single-block wines — the smallest production unit for vineyards that may not exceed six hectares per cultivar. Their unique position borders with dry conditions of the Karoo (semi-desert region), along with cool sea breezes from the coastal regions. Learn more about the winery’s history here.

© Information and Photos provided by Jan Harmsgat.

Jan Harmsgat Winery South Africa

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Jan Harmsgat Shiraz

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Grilled T-Bone Steak and herb butter on wooden cutting board

GRILLED T-BONE STEAK

INGREDIENTS:

  • For the Steak:
    • 1 (36 oz.) T-bone or porterhouse steak
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon salt
    • ½ tablespoon pepper
  • For the Herb Compound Butter:
    • ½ cup butter (room temperature)
    • 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped)
    • 3 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
    • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (chopped)
    • 2 cloves garlic (diced)

DIRECTIONS:

  • For the Steak:
    • Take the steak out of the fridge and out of it’s packaging. Pat both sides with paper towel. Season with oil, salt and pepper on both sides. Let it come to room temperature.
    • Preheat your BBQ over high heat.
    • When the steak is too temperature, place it on the grill, let it sear for 2-3 minutes with the lid closed. Come back, and turn it 90°, and let it sear for another 2-3 minutes with the lid closed.
    • Flip the steak over (at this point, you should be able to see the diamond patter on this side). Sear for 2-3 minutes, then turn 90°. Allow it to finish cooking in this position (it should take another 8-12 minutes, depending on the size of your steak.
    • Allow the steak to rest on a cooling rack for 7-8 minutes. Serve with compound butter discs on top.
  • For the Compound Herb Butter:
    • In a small bowl, mix the butter, herbs and garlic.
    • Place a section of plastic wrap on your work surface. Scrap the butter on to the surface, and carefully roll the wrap around the butter. Twisting the ends, roll the butter back and forth until it forms a smooth cylinder. Refrigerate for one hour, then slice and serve with steak.

© Recipe courtesy of Cara at The Gourmet Bon Vivant.

AUGUST WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoJan-Harmsgat_ShirazJan Harmsgat
Shiraz
South Africa

BOLD WINE STYLE

This Shiraz is spicy and fruit driven. The nose and the palate are equally spicy with notes of white peppers and dark fruit.

Varietal: Shiraz
Analysis: 15.0% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.77
RS: 2.1 g/L
Production: 5,000 Bottles
Wood Maturation: Spicy, white peppers, dark fruit

WINEMAKER’S NOTES
For a red wine so young, this Shiraz is remarkably drinkable with plenty of dark soft berries and spice. The flavors are rich and mouth-filling, while comfortably fresh tannins ensure there’s no heaviness. This wine should give pleasure of the next year or two.

ABOUT JAN HARMSGAT:
Founded in 1723, the Jan Harmsgat Farm (JHG) is situated on the most southern tip of the Robertson Wine valley, along the foothills of the Langeberg Mountains in the Western Cape of South Africa. This area is locally known as the “valley of wine and roses”. JHG’s philosophy is to create delicious single-block wines — the smallest production unit for vineyards that may not exceed six hectares per cultivar. Their unique position borders with dry conditions of the Karoo (semi-desert region), along with cool sea breezes from the coastal regions. Learn more about the winery’s history here.

© Photo by Jan Harmsgat
© Photo by Jan Harmsgat
© Photo by Jan Harmsgat

© Information provided by Jan Harmsgat

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Jan Harmsgat Chardonnay

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Caramelized-Onion-Apple-and-Brie-Flatbread-Pizza-7-768x512

© Photo by Jo-Anna Rooney

CARAMELIZED ONION, APPLE AND BRIE FLATBREAD PIZZA

INGREDIENTS:

  • Balsamic Caramelized Onions:
    • 2 large sweet onions
    • 2 Tbsp. butter
    • 2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
    • salt and black pepper to taste
  • Flatbread and Toppings:
    • 1 large (or 3 small) pre-made flatbread or Naan bread
    • 1 or 2 green apples, cut into thin slices (recipe used Granny Smith Apples)
    • ¾ cup sliced Brie cheese (recipe used 1/2 of a 350 g wheel of Brie)
    • ¼ cup chopped Arugula for garnish
    • caramelized onions 

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425ºF
  2. Make the caramelized onions first:
    1. Slice the onions.
    2. Melt the butter in a skillet over low-medium heat, then add the onions.
    3. Stir in the balsamic vinegar.
    4. Turn the heat down to low, and cook the onions until they are soft and there is no liquid in the pan, about 25 minutes.
    5. Stir often, making sure not to let the onions burn. You want them to be soft and deep golden brown.
    6. When they’re done, set aside.
  3. Putting it all together:
    1. Lay the flatbread out on a baking sheet.
    2. Spread the caramelized onions over the flatbread.
    3. Layer on the slices of apple, tucking some apple pieces under the onions.
    4. Add the sliced Brie cheese.
    5. Bake the flatbreads for 10 – 12 minute, or until the cheese is softly melted.
    6. Garnish with the chopped arugula and serve!

© Recipe courtesy of Jo-Anna Rooney from A Pretty Life.

AUGUST WINE CLUB:

Rich WineStylesJan-Harmsgat_ChardonnayJan Harmsgat
Chardonnay
South Africa

RICH WINE STYLE

This Chardonnay is fruit driven with integrated wood notes that is barely noticeable. On the nose, there are notes of citrus, stone fruit and pineapple; while the palate is rich, yet elegant with a round mouth feel.

Varietal: Chardonnay
Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.46
TA: 6.14
RS: 4.43 g/L
Production: 5,000 Bottles
Maturation: 10 Months, 225L French Oak Casks, 4th fill.
Critical Acclaim: 91 pts. Gilbert & Gaillard – 2021 International Challenge

WINEMAKER’S NOTES
A Chardonnay with gentle yet enticing roasted hazelnuts, whipped butter and a lick of oak with aromatic complexity. It is rounded, with good density and an energizing fresh core, the palate has great texture.

ABOUT JAN HARMSGAT:
Founded in 1723, the Jan Harmsgat Farm (JHG) is situated on the most southern tip of the Robertson Wine valley, along the foothills of the Langeberg Mountains in the Western Cape of South Africa. This area is locally known as the “valley of wine and roses”. JHG’s philosophy is to create delicious single-block wines — the smallest production unit for vineyards that may not exceed six hectares per cultivar. Their unique position borders with dry conditions of the Karoo (semi-desert region), along with cool sea breezes from the Coastal Regions. Learn more about the winery’s history here.

© Information and Photos provided by Jan Harmsgat.

Jan Harmsgat Farm Winery

Jan Harmsgat Farm

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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August Sweet Club Iowa

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Sweet Wine ClubBarton & GuestierBarton & Guestier
Vouvray Passeport
Loire Valley, France

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Bright clear yellow in appearance, the Vouvray Passeport has a fruit driven nose with subtle aromas of white flowers mixed with peach, pear, pineapple and carambola. On the palate, it is well balanced between fruit and flint, with a nice, refreshing finish.

Varietal: 100% Chenin Blanc
Region: Loire Valley, France – near the town of Tours
Classification: Appellation Vouvray Contrôlée
Soil: Clay and limestone base with sandy patches, where Chenin grows its best
Climate: Oceanic, mild and humid
Vinification: Pressing of the grapes with overnight settling – controlled alcoholic fermentation to preserve residual sugar
Viticulture: Low yields, hand tending, careful selection and minimal interference in the natural ripening of the grapes
Pairing: This wine is very versatile. It can be paired well with anything from cheese to appetizers, salads, fish, barbecue, or even spicy food or curry dishes. Best served between 46ºF and 50ºF.
Critical Acclaim:

  • Double Gold Medal – Wine Tasting Competition (WSWA) 2016 – USA – 2015 vintage
  • Double Gold Medal – York World Wine & Spirits Comp 2016 (2015 vintage)
  • Vivino Wine Style Awards 2017
  • “Best Buy” – Wine Enthusiast (2014 vintage)
  • 91 points Ultimate Wine Challenge ‘Finalist’ (2013 vintage)

WineStyles Wine and Cheese Pairing: Sweet wines from our ‘Nectar’ section pair well with an aged cheese. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

ABOUT THE WINERY: 
In 1725, Irishman, Thomas Barton settled in Bordeaux, France to start is company – now, the city’s oldest active wine house. His grandson Hugh teamed up with Frenchman, Daniel Guestier, and in 1802 their partnership became official. Since then, the company has reached over 130 countries. Learn more about their story here.

BEXBEX Winery
Riesling
Nahe, Germany

NECTAR WINE STYLE

The BEX Riesling is brilliant straw color. On the nose, there are aromas of orange blossom, lime and white grapefruit, while on the palate there are mouthwatering flavors of lime and mandarin orange. The wine finishes with notes of minerals and citrus zest.

Analysis: 10.0% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Riesling
Appellation: Nahe, Germany
RS: 2.4%
pH: 3.23
TA: .82 g/100ml
Aging: Fermented at cool temperatures (52)F-55)F), then aged in stainless steel tanks to enhance the wines fresh fruit characteristics
Closure: Twist off to preserve the zesty citrus and bright stone fruit nuances. This allows a slight effervescence to be sealed in, lifting the soft aromas out of the glass.
Pairing: Enjoy as an aperitif, pair with a light or spicy cuisine, or serve as a finale with a dessert
Critical Acclaim: Exceptional – “Best Buy” – 90 points: Beverage Testing Institute, Oct 2015

WineStyles Wine and Cheese Pairing: Sweet wines from our ‘Nectar’ section also pair well with an herbal cheese. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

WINEMAKER NOTES – 2014 VINTAGE:
“The 2014 growing season was early and fast! Riesling shoots appeared on April 12, three weeks before the norm. Flowering was ahead of schedule and the vines ripened nicely through August when a period of strong rains occurred. Luckily Mother Nature delivered a nice dry September helping the grapes to reach full maturity. The hallmark of 2014 Riesling are sassy wines – crisp and lively with well-integrated acidity.” – BEX Winery

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Located 25 miles south of Mosel, in the Nahe (pronounced Nah-heh) region of southwest Germany; BEX Winery works to produce wines highlighting the distinct flavors of its land. Nahe is the most geologically diverse growing region in Germany. It’s known for its red slate/diverse soils, mild climate, and moderate rainfall – making distinct Rieslings with fresh fruit and floral aromas. Learn more about BEX Winery here.

© Photo by BEX Winery
© Photo by BEX Winery
© Photo by BEX Winery

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August Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine Clubpitars-prosecco-millesimato-extra-dry-docPitars
Prosecco Millesimato Extra Dry
Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The Pitars Prosecco Millesimato Extra Dry wine is effervescent with a fine and persistent perlage. It is pale, straw yellow in color with hints of green tones. On the nose, there is a rich range of fruit with aromas of wisteria, acacia flowers, unripe apples, lemons and grapefruits. The wine is full-bodied and has a pleasant acidity that is both fresh and dry. 

Soil: Gravely of alluvial foothill origin, typical of the land named “Grave del Friuli”
Grapes: Pure Glera grape
Growing System: Guyot
Harvest: First two weeks of September
Vinification: White vinification. First fermentation occurs in steel vats at controlled temperature, where selected yeasts are added. Bubbles are created inside low-temperature pressure tanks – Martinotti-Charmat method.
Fining: In bottle
Serving Temperature: 46.4ºF-50ºF
Food Pairings: Versatile with any occasion, pairs well with hors d’oeuvres
Awards: Gilber & Gaillard, Gold Medal

pitars-rose-spumante-dryPitars
Rosé Dry Sparkling Wine
Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The Pitars Rosé has elegant and persistent bubbles. It is a very fresh and lightly aromatic wine. Brilliant pale pink in color; the nose is delicate, floral and fruity, with notes of strawberry, raspberry and rose. 

Analysis: 11.5% alcohol / volume
TA: 5.6 g/l
Sugar: 18.5 g/l
Pressure: 4.5 bar
Soil: Gravely of alluvial foothill origin
Growing System: Guyot
Harvest: First week of September, manual harvest
Vinification: White vinification. First fermentation takes place is steel vats at controlled temperatures – this is where the selected yeasts are added. The wine becomes bubbly inside these low-temperature pressure takes, known as the Charmat method.
Aging: Six months in bottle
Serving Temperature: 45ºF-50ºF
Food Pairings: Versatile with any occasion, or ideal as an aperitif
Awards: James Suckling, 90 pts. | Bibenda, 3 Bunches

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Winemaking has been in the Pittaro family for many centuries – dating back to 1644. In 1880 Romano Pittaro, imported Merlot vines from France into Friuli, Italy. His son, Angelo Pittaro, built the first modern winery called the Cantina San Martino – later changing the name to Pitars to honor the family name. Today, the winery is still in the family’s hands, passed down from generation to generation. They continue to honor their family tradition in the craft of making excellent wine. Learn more about their family business here.

Bubbly Wine ClubLearn more about our Bubbly Club >

 

 

Pomar Junction Brooster

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Asian Steak Skewers

© Photo by the Recipe Critic

Grilled Asian Garlic Steak Skewers

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 1/2 pounds top sirloin steak
  • 1 red onion
  • 2/3 cup soy sauce
  • 6 garlic cloves minced
  • 1/4 cup sesame oil
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 Tablespoon grated ginger
  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds
  • sliced green onions for garnish
  • skewers

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Cut steak into one inch cubes. Cut the red onion into large chunks and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl whisk together soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, vegetable oil, sugar, ginger and sesame seeds. Add the steak and toss to coat in marinade. Marinate for 3 hours or overnight.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the meat and the red onion onto the skewers. Grill for 8-10 minutes until the meat is done to desired liking.

© Recipe courtesy of Alyssa Rivers of The Recipe Critic.

AUGUST WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoPomarJunction_2018BroosterPomar Junction
Brooster Fighting Red
Paso Robles, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

The “Brooster Fighting Red” Blend is an approachable red wine that is medium-bodied with spicy accents. It highlights flavors of red cherry, plum, berries, caramel and black pepper with hints of spice and oak. This wine is excellent on its own or paired with a casual meal.

Varietal: 30% Zinfandel, 25% Syrah, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Grenache Noir, 6% Mourvèdre, 2% Petit Verdot
Analysis: 14.7% alcohol / volume
PH: 3.48
TA: 6.1 g/L
Production: 1715 cases
Aging: 18 Months, Neutral Oak
Winemaker: Jim Shumate

 

 

WINEMAKER NOTES:
“In homage to historic and traditional Paso Robles table wines, it is approachable with domesticated red cherry and plum flavors with just a hint of oak. This style of wine is reminiscent of Zinfandel blends commonly produced before the days of “over the top” ripeness and high alcohol levels. Caramel, black pepper, and a hint of minerality add complexity to this affordable red wine. It is accessible via the convenient Stelvin screw-cap and its bright, colorful package is a big hit in restaurants. It goes with many lighter foods that heavier red wines might overwhelm. It is sure to give you something to crow about!” – Jim Shumate, winemaker

ABOUT POMAR JUNCTION VINEYARD & WINERY:
Located in the El Pomar District in the heart of the Paso Robles AVA, Pomar Junction Vineyard & Winery is family owned and operated by the Merrill Family. Here, they grow premium grapes, focusing on small lot, food friendly wines with sustainable vineyard management techniques. The winemaking experience is further enhanced by their Head Winemaker and Cal Poly SLO Enology Professor, Jim Shumate. Learn more about the Merrill Family and Jim Shumate here.

© Photo by Pomar Junction
© Photo by Pomar Junction – (Left to Right) Matt Merrill, Dana Merrill, and Jim Shumate
© Photo by Pomar Junction

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August Wine Club Pairing Recipe

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Roast Beef & Smoked Gouda Grilled Cheese

Roast Beef Smoked Gouda Sandwich

© Photo by Running to the Kitchen

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 large red onion, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, coarsely chopped
  • 2 slices of bread
  • 1/4 pound sliced roast beef
  • 3-4 ounces smoked gouda, sliced

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Melt 1 tablespoon of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Once the butter is melted, add the onions and sage.
  3. Toss to coat all the onions in the butter, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the onions sauté slowly for 30 minutes, only stirring very occasionally. After 30 minutes they should be nice and caramelized.
  4. Use the remaining tablespoon of butter to spread on one side of each slice of bread.
  5. With the buttered side facing down, layer half the cheese slices on top of the bread.
  6. Next lay the roast beef on top of the cheese.
  7. Spoon some of the onions (you may have extra) on top of the roast beef.
  8. Top the onions with the remaining cheese and then the other slice of bread with the buttered side facing up.
  9. Transfer the sandwich to a skillet over medium heat.
  10. Press the sandwich down using a large spatula and hold pressure on it so that the cheese melts. After about 2 minutes, flip the sandwich over and repeat. The first side should be a nice golden brown. Alternatively, you could use a panini press for this if you have one.
  11. Once the other side is golden brown and the cheese is melted, remove from the skillet, cut in half and serve up with your bowl of soup!

© Recipe courtesy of Gina Matsoukas from Running to the Kitchen.

AUGUST WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoSidetrack RedPomar Junction
Sidetrack Red
Paso Robles, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

Sidetrack Red is a proprietary blend highlighting the distinct flavors from the El Pomar District of Paso Robles. It is vibrant, deep and rich in colors, with aromas of plums, blueberries, red roses and caramel. On the palate, there are notes of berries, dark chocolate, and spices.

Varietal: 44% Syrah, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 1% Grenanche Noir
Region: El Pomar District AVA
Analysis: 14.08% alcohol / volume
Brix: 24.5
PH: 3.54
TA: 6.6 g/L
Residual Sugar: 0.40%
Production: 1235 cases
Aging: 9 months
Critical Acclaim: Silver Medal – San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
Food Pairings: Roast beef, cabernet braised cabbage, gouda & cheddar cheeses
 
WINEMAKER NOTES:
“Pomar Junction Vineyard has a unique terroir, as our limestone soils, cooling Templeton Gap breezes and expert sustainable farming techniques (SIP Certified Vineyards) combine to produce this outstanding wine. The Sidetrack Red makes a fantastic, food-friendly wine.” – Jim Shumate, winemaker.
 
ABOUT POMAR JUNCTION VINEYARD & WINERY:
Dating back at least eight generations, the Merrill Family has been growing and producing grapes on California’s Central Coast since the 19th Century. Originally, the family was growing grapes for other wineries in California – from premium small producers to large international brands. Today, Dana and Marsha Merrill, along with their son, Matthew, and winemaker, Jim Shumate farm the vineyards and produce elegant wines of their own. Learn more here.
 

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August Sweet Club: Iowa

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Sweet Wine ClubStella Rosa BlueberryStella Rosa®️ Wines
Blueberry
Piedmont, Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Stella Rosa Blueberry is their winery’s newest flavor, and is a proprietary blend of several red grape varietals. The wine is combined with flavors of natural blueberry distillates & purées, making it undeniably irresistible. Its sweet and succulent blueberry taste will elevate your mood and your wine-tasting expectations.

Region: Piedmont, Italy
Analysis: 5% alcohol / volume

Food Pairing Recommendations: This flavor pairs well with fresh fruits, BBQ chicken, charcuterie, cheesecake, and cinnamon roll coffee cake.

Blueberry Frosé

Photo credit: Stella Rosa Wines

BLUEBERRY FROSÉ
Cool off this summer with a refreshing frosé! Check out this fun way to switch up Stella Rosa Blueberry Wine.

INGREDIENTS:

1 bottle Stella Rosa Blueberry
2 1/3 cups frozen blueberries, divided
¼ cup lemon juice
2 oz. vodka
fresh blueberries (for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1.Pour wine into ice cube trays and freeze for 6 to 8 hours until almost frozen solid Note: wine will not freeze completely
2. In a blender, pulse together wine ice cubes, vodka, 2 cups frozen blueberries, and lemon juice.
3. Divide frosé among 4 glasses. Garnish with a handful of fresh blueberries and enjoy!
© Recipe courtesy of Stella Rosa Wines

Stella Rosa WatermelonStella Rosa®️ Wines
Watermelon
Piedmont, Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Stella Rosa Watermelon is a new, and exclusive, addition to the winery’s semi-sparkling collection. Featuring a proprietary blend of several white grape varietals, including White Moscato (an indigenous grape variety from Piedmont, Italy), and a touch of Barbera for color. Its crisp, refreshing taste showcases the natural flavors of watermelon, created using a distillation process of Italian fruits grown in southern Italy. The semi-dry character is a perfect compliment to Brunch and light appetizers.

Region: Piedmont, Italy
Analysis: 5.5% alcohol /volume

Food Pairing Recommendations: This flavor pairs wonderfully with light salads, such as Greek or Caesar, as well as salty appetizers like Edamame or Jalapeño poppers. For dessert, you can pair it with coconut cream pie!

Stella Rosa Watermelon

Photo credit: Stella Rosa Wines

SPICY STELLA ROSA RITA

A little sweet, a little spicy! Try this fun cocktail at home with this month’s Stella Rosa Watermelon Wine.

INGREDIENTS

For Drink:
5 oz. Stella Rosa Watermelon, chilled
1½ oz. Jose Cuervo Tequila Blanco
¾ oz. lime juice
2 oz. watermelon juice
1 jalapeño, sliced
For Rim:
1 tbsp. Kosher salt
1 tbsp. chili powder
Lime wedges

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Place jalapeño slices in a jar with tequila and let sit for 15 minutes for the spice to infuse the tequila.
2. Remove the jalapeño slices & set aside.
3. Mix salt and chili powder together on a separate plate. Smear the rim of the glass with a lime wedge then dip it into the salt-chili powder mixture to coat the rim.
4. Add a handful of ice to the glass.
5. In a cocktail shaker, add the juices & infused tequila; shake vigorously.
6. Strain the mixture into the glass.
7. Top off with Stella Rosa Watermelon, garnish with a Watermelon slice, and enjoy!
© Recipe courtesy of Stella Rosa Wines

Stella RosaWINEMAKING:
The grapes are harvested, pressed, centrifuged, and then held as a cold juice at 28 degrees Fahrenheit. The juice is fermented at various intervals throughout the year, which allows the wine to remain fresh and delicate throughout the entire fermenting process. The Stella Rosa family uses this technique to capture the fresh flavors of natural blueberry distillates & purées for their Blueberry wine, and an off-dry Rosé, busting with fresh flavors for their Watermelon wine. Both Stella Rosa Blueberry and Watermelon contain natural carbonation. The juice is fermented in Charmat-style, pressurized tanks, and as the alcohol is created, so is the carbonation. Once the desired sweetness is achieved, the wine is centrifuged and bottled. The alcohol level stays at approximately 5% and contains 6-10% residual sugar. Its natural acidity and low pH strike the perfect balance with the wine’s natural sweetness. 

ABOUT STELLA ROSA:
It all started in 1917, when the Riboli family founded Los Angeles’ historic San Antonio Winery. Back then, Los Angeles was the prime location for wine growing in all of California. For some time, the wine industry reigned as one of Southern California’s most economically significant and popular industries of that time. After surviving Prohibition and about a century later, the Riboli family has continued its artisan winemaking tradition through four generations. From within the tasting rooms of San Antonio Winery, customers repeatedly requested a sweeter, light, refreshing wine. The Riboli family took this unique opportunity to create a new semi-sweet, semi-sparkling wine style, which today, they are a leader of. And so, Stella Rosa was born.

our-story-mapMADE AND IMPORTED FROM ITALY:
To create the Stella Rosa wines, their family chose the region of Asti, a province in Piedmont, Italy, as the source for its aromatic grapes. The area of Asti has particular significance to the Riboli family, as it is the birthplace of their family matriarch, Maddalena Riboli. Their first Stella Rosa wine was Moscato D’Asti, which has become a flagship of this line. Soon after, Stella Rosa Rosso was created – the brand’s first semi-sweet, semi-sparkling red wine blend, and first wine of its kind to be brought to America from Asti. The rapid phenomenal successes of these two wines began the lineage of Stella Rosa, which now boasts over 20 distinctive flavors.

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Sweet wines from our ‘Nectar’ section pair well with strong cheeses, such as a blue cheese. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

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August Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubDSC_0588-EditPOE Wines
NV Ultraviolet Sparkling Rosé
Napa, California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

NV Ultraviolet Sparkling Rosé is a base of 85% Coombsville Cabernet Franc Rosé, made from the grapes that go into POE’s Ultraviolet Cabernet Sauvignon. The remaining 15% is French Colombard from Mendocino.  This sparkling rosé has aromatics of lemon blossoms and strawberry, the palate shows lovely minerality and fine bubbles, with underripe strawberry, peach, and orange peel, with a lingering bright grapefruit on the finish.

WINEMAKING:
POE had been making Champagne method sparkling wines for six years, when they decided to make a playful, fruit driven California sparkling wine, by utilizing the Charmant method.  As opposed to fermenting in the bottle, POE takes their sparkling base and instigates a second fermentation in stainless steel, utilizing yeast and sugar.  This is the same process as the Champagne method, but in a different vessel.  The fermentation is kept cold, and lasts seven weeks.  After a few months of rest, they bottle under cork.

ABOUT POE WINES:
Samantha Sheehan founded POE in 2009 after being inspired by the wines she tasted in Burgundy and Champagne.  The goal was not to replicate Burgundy, but rather create alluring, vineyard specific, age-worthy wines revealing the beautiful terroir of California.  There is minimal intervention, judicious use of sulfur, and never any additives. POE produces traditional Champagne method sparkling wines, Rosé, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and a nouveau from Pinot Noir.  Each wine is made in very limited quantities, and sold directly from the winery and to high-end restaurants around the country. 

Owner/Winemaker Sam Poe Sheehan

POE Vineyards© POE Wines

Bubbly Wine ClubBodkin Sparkling Sauv BlancBodkin Wines
Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc
Healdsburg, California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Bodkin Wines is proud to release the fourth cuvée of California’s first Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc. This unique and stylish twist on Sauvignon Blanc has a core of racy crispness driven by lively acidity, accented with lemon-lime aromas (no cat grass — no worries) and citrus-passion fruit flavors. The pronounced citrus tones team with a note of toasted hazelnuts to accent the enchantingly plush mouth feel of the wine. The wine is called Cuvée Agincourt in reference to the Battle of Agincourt during the Hundred Years War. In 1415 where the English army comprised largely of archers armed with Bodkin pointed arrows beat back a French army much more numerous and comprised of the nation’s high nobility.

VARIETY: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
ALCOHOL: 11.5%
DOSAGE: Brut

ABOUT BODKIN WINES:
Bodkin Wines was founded by Chris Christensen, an Iowa native, in 2011. His passion for aromatic wines and winemaking led him to create America’s first Sauvignon Blanc with bubbles. In 2013, Andrew Chambers, an Oregon native, joined the brand and they purchased 24 tons and made 1,100 cases of their award-winning Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc. Since that time, Bodkin Wines has produced over 15 varietals of wine, eleven of which were scored at 90 points or higher by Wine Enthusiast. They are consistently growing, year after year, but are determined to keep their presence small and unique. Bodkin Wines is still 100% owned by both Chris and Andrew, two guys living and working hard in Sonoma County.

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Screen Shot 2020-07-20 at 6.38.33 PM© Bodkin Wines

Soupe au Pistou

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Soupe au PistouA Provençal version of minestrone, this is a hearty vegetable soup with summer vegetables, herbs and pasta. Delicious served hot or at room temperature.

INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup dried white beans (navy or cannellini), soaked in cold water overnight and drained.
• 1-ounce of pancetta
• 1 small onion, halved
• 1 medium onion, coarsely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, 2 whole and 2 smashed
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 quarts plus 3 cups water
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 small fennel bulb, cored and coarsely chopped
• 2 red potatoes (10 ounces), peeled and halved
• 4 small zucchini (1 pound), cut into ½ inch pieces
• ¾ lb green beans or Romano beans, cut ½ inch pieces
• 3 medium tomatoes-peeled, seeded and cut into ½ inch dice
• 1 table spoon unsalted butter
• 1 cup small shaped pasta, such as elbow or Ditalini
• salt and freshly ground pepper
• 1 cup Classic Pistou (see below)
• basil sprigs, for garnish

DIRECTIONS:
• Put the drained white beans, pancetta, halved onion, whole garlic cloves and bay leaf in a medium saucepan. Add the 3 cups of water and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan and simmer until the beans are tender, about 1 ½ hours. Discard the pancetta, onion, garlic and bay leaf.
• Meanwhile, in a large, heavy pot, heat the olive oil. Add the fennel, potatoes, chopped onion and smashed garlic. Cover the pot and cook the vegetables over moderately low heat, stirring occasionally, until the fennel and onion are softened, about 10 minutes. Add the 2 quarts of water and gradually bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes. © Photo Quentin Bacon and recipe courtesy of Paula Wolfert, FoodandWine.com

Corbieres wine bottleBold wine Style logoAbbotts and Delaunay
A Tire D’Aile
Grenache, Syrah
Corbieres, France

A Tire d’Aile is a range of delectable, balanced and elegant wines from the Languedoc region’s classic appellations. Respecting both the soil and the vines, healthy grapes are produced with good concentration much to the delight of the birds that live in the plots.

The grapes come from three terroirs: 65% from the eastern Corbières (coastal vineyards yield grapes that lend freshness and elegance), 20% from the edge of Fitou (a terroir located further south whose grapes offer lovely aromatic richness) and 15% from the Corbières Boutenac cru which give this wine its depth. The grapes are handpicked and brought to the winery in tubs and immediately transferred to tanks without crushing or pumping. Maceration lasts 15 days. The press wine is added to the free-run wine. The wine is aged in barrels (40%) and stainless steel tanks (60%).Laurent Delaunay WineMaker

“Very intense black color. Floral nose reminiscent of violet along with fine spices (white pepper), black olive and notes of humus and tobacco. Rich and full-bodied on the palate with lovely substance and smooth tannins. Flavors of jammy fruit and baked goods on the finish.” – Laurent Delaunay, winemaker

Winemaker: Laurent Delaunay
Appellation: Languedoc, Corbieres, France
Varietal Blend:  Grenache, Syrah
Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume

CLASSIC PISTOU

Pistou

From the south of France, Pistou is similar to pesto sauce. It’s an olive oil based basil sauce and made by hand.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 tablespoon crushed garlic
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 4 1/2 cups basil leaves, torn into pieces (2 ounces)
  • 1/4 cup coarsely grated plum tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup finely grated Mimolette or slightly aged Gouda (3 ounces)

DIRECTIONS:

In a large mortar, pound the garlic with the salt to a paste. Add the basil by the handful and grind the leaves against the side of the mortar until almost smooth. Stir in the tomatoes, then gradually stir in the olive oil until it’s incorporated. Stir in the cheese and refrigerate until ready to serve. © Photo Quentin Bacon, recipe by Paula Wolfert of FoodandWine.com