July Wine Club Pairing Recipe

berry-cobblerBerry Cobbler

INGREDIENTS:

  • 8 cups mixed berries
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Biscuit Topping

  • 1 and ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 and ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • ½ cup buttermilk, cold
  • for topping before baking: 1 tablespoon buttermilk and coarse sugar

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch pan.
  2. Make the filling: In a large bowl, gently fold the berries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract together until thoroughly combined. Spread filling evenly into prepared pan.
  3. Make the topping: Whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt together in a large bowl. Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse meal (pea-sized crumbs). A pastry cutter makes this step very easy and quick. You could also use a food processor. While slowly stirring, slowly drizzle in ½ cup buttermilk. Mix until evenly combined. Take handfuls of dough and gently flatten out. Place dough all over the top of the berry filling. There’s no special trick to this—just flatten the dough in sections and cover most of the berries.
  4. Brush the top of the biscuit dough with 1 tablespoon of buttermilk and then sprinkle with coarse sugar. These two are optional, but both help achieve a shiny, crunchy, golden brown crust.
  5. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until golden brown and biscuit topping is cooked through. Stick a toothpick into the biscuit topping, if it comes out clean, it is cooked through and the cobbler is done. Set the pan on a wire rack, then cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
  6. Cover and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

© Recipe courtesy of Sally’s Baking Addiction.

JULY WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoBroken_Earth_Tempranillo_bottleBroken Earth Winery
Limited Release Tempranillo
Estate Grown
Paso Robles, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

This wine immediately captures your attention. The fruit and oak combine wonderfully on the nose and this harmony continues through the palate. Brighter red fruits abound with great length and flavor, with a balanced firm, finish.

Varietal: Tempranillo
Analysis: 14.6% alcohol / volume
pH:
3.57
R/S:
2.0 g/L
TA:
6.7 g/L
Appellation: Paso Robles, California
Awards: 91 pts. — Wine Enthusiast

Tempranillo:
This grape is a native Spaniard, where it reigns supreme in the famous Rioja region. You might also find it in Portugal under the name Tinta Roriz, where it is a key player in Port production. The name itself is a clue to its personality – “tempranillo” is a derivative of Spanish for “early,” hinting at its characteristic fast ripening.

Winemaker’s Notes:
“Broken Earth had some of the very early plantings of this variety in Paso and, although it was a tiny block, it encouraged us to plant much more in 2016. Block 5J is 15.09 acres of Clone 770 planted on 10’ x 5’ spacings and utilizing simple vertical shoot position (VSP) for canopy management.

It is an active growing variety, as mentioned has the benefit of ripening earlier and provides a plush, ‘fleshy’ palate but with ample tannins to balance the fruit. The wine is quite aromatic and warrants a more obvious oak regime which utilizes mostly new and some used barrels, with a mixture of French and Hybrid (French oak heads and American oak staves). Harvested at 24.5 Brix, and following a cool ferment, it spent 15 months in oak.” – Chris Cameron, Winemaker

About Broken Earth Winery:

50th-Year-Logo_Green-800x802Celebrating 50 Years: In 1973, Wayne Rodgers (Mash), James Caan (Godfather), Peter Faulk (Columbo), Jack Webb (Dragnet) and local visionary Herman Schwartz established the first large scale vineyard on the Central Coast, planting 520 acres. They anticipated the growth of Paso Robles to be another 2,000 acres with 10-15 wineries over the long-term. Paso Robles now stands around 70,000 acres under vine and over 300 wineries. 

Continental Vineyards was growing grapes for many Napa wineries in the early 70’s and 80’s. Winemakers from all over the world would travel to this vineyard to see what Paso Robles was capable of growing.  This tradition continues today, establishing many new varieties that have never been planted in the US, and have 34 of the 72 varieties grown in the region. 

Broken Earth, as a brand, was born from the heritage of the vineyard property originally named “Rancho Tierra Rejada”, meaning “land of worked or farmed earth”. For generations, farmers have cultivated and ‘broken’ the soil in the region with care and respect. Their goal is to respect the land and its treasures. Broken Earth winery encompasses a philosophy to provide wine that reflects the personality of where it is sustainably grown and the personality of its talented craftsmen, the winemaker and crew. Learn more about the winery here.

Broken Earth Winery

Information & Photos © Broken Earth Winery – 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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June Sweet Club: Iowa

Sweet Wine Clubmoscato-dasti-bottle-imageRisata
Moscato d’Asti
Moscato Bianco di Canelli
Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Risata Moscato d’Asti is seductively sweet, boasting juicy stone fruit, tart citrus and floral honey flavors. It’s a fresh and fragrant wine.

Analysis: 5.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal:
100% Moscato Bianco di Canelli
Perfect Pairings: Appetizers, tiramisu or a kid-free staycation

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Reach for a soft cheese such as a brie. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Risata_Post_CosmoPunchMix Things Up – Wine Cocktails!

Risata Cosmo Punch:

  • 2 parts Risata Moscato d’Asti
  • 2 parts ginger ale
  • 1 part vodka
  • 1 part frozen pink lemonade
  • 1 part cranberry juice
  • .5 part Triple Sec

Directions:

  • In a large pitcher or a large punch bowl, combine all ingredients. Serve drinks over ice and enjoy as yummy summer sipper!

Risata Peach wine bottleRisata
Peach
Moscato

Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Savor the lusciousness of Risata Peach, a semi-sweet wine, bursting with flavors of ripe, juicy peaches and a hint of apricot. Light-bodied and crisp on the finish, this refreshing wine is best served chilled.

Analysis: 5.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal:
100% Moscato
Perfect Pairings: Salads, cake or a night of “me time”

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Pair this fruity, semi-sweet wine with a rich, nutty hard cheese such as Parmigiano Reggiano. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Mix Things Up – Wine Cocktails!

Rista Peach Sangria drink recipePeach Sangria:
(Makes 4-5 servings)

  • 1 part Risata Peach Wine
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1 peach, sliced
  • 1 cup berries
  • 1/3 cup orange liqueur
  • 1 cup club soda
  • garnish: edible flowers

Directions:

  • Add fruit and orange liqueur to a pitcher and gently muddle with a wooden spoon. Add Risata Peach wine, club soda, and ice, then stir. Divide into glasses and serve with edible flowers, if desired. Credit: The Social Sipper.

Risata_Blueberry-bottle-imageRisata
Blueberry
Brachetto
Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Relish in the wild and fresh flavor of Risata Blueberry, a refreshing semi-sweet wine, with intense flavors of fresh blueberry and a soft hint of cherry. Serve lightly chilled.

Analysis: 5.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal:
100% Brachetto
Perfect Pairings: Fresh fruit, grilled meats, or a little late night retail therapy.

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: For a savory cheese pairing, reach for a feta cheese. The saltiness of this cheese can enhance the sweetness of the blueberries and create an interesting savory contrast. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Mix Things Up – Wine Cocktails!

Risata-Berry-Wine-SlushieBlueberry Wine Slushie:
(Makes 4 servings)

  • 2 cups Risata Blueberry wine
  • 3 cups frozen mixed berries
  • ¼ cup elderflower liqueur
  • 1 cup ice
  • garnish: berries, edible flowers

Directions:

  • Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Divide into glasses and garnish with frozen berries and edible flowers, if desired. Enjoy immediately. Credit: The Social Sipper.

About the Winery:
The word ‘Risata’ means ‘laughter’ in Italian. The team behind Risata thought it would be fitting for a line of delightfully sweet and bubbly wines made to be enjoyed on nearly any occasion. Sourced from the finest vineyards in Italy, Risata wines are premium quality wines that are designed to elevate any moment. Their Moscato d’Asta was introduced to the U.S. in 2006 and has grown to be the most sought after Moscato d’Asti in the country. These wines are delicious on their own or mixed into a tantalizing cocktail! Learn more here.

Photo and Information © Risata – All Rights Reserved


Sweet ClubLove the Sweet life?
“Wine” not try our Sweet Club! 

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June Cheese Club: Iowa

Cheese ClubArtequeso-cheeseArtequeso Manchego Artesano D.O.P. Semi-Curado La Mancha, Spain

Made in the heart of Spain’s La Mancha region, Artequeso’s Manchego cheese is a taste of tradition. Crafted on the La Prudenciana Estate using milk from their herd of 1,000 Manchego sheep, this cheese has arrived to the US with great accolades, it was even featured on Mario Batali’s “Spain…On the Road Again” show. Aged for 4 months, it boasts a mild yet flavorful taste with a soft, stretchy texture. WINE & CRAFT BEER PAIRINGS: As they say, what grows together, goes together! Enjoy this Spanish cheese with any of our June Wine Club wines from Spain. It will also pair nicely with an unoaked Chardonnay. If you prefer red, pair with a good Tempranillo, Malbec or Chianti. For our beer lovers, we have two different recommendations to pair with this delicious cheese: Ciders or Malty beers… choose your own adventure! WINESTYLES: Rich, Bold or Mellow BEERSTYLES: Sour, Tart & Funky or Malty & Sweet PRODUCTION: This unparalleled raw milk Manchego is exclusively produced using sheep’s milk collected from local herds. Once the milk is collected, Artequeso Manchego cheese is produced following only the strictest of artisan traditions, during which cheesemaker Alfonso Alvarez and his staff keep absolute control over each step of the cheesemaking process; this includes curd cutting, whey drainage, salting, and finally drying. Once the process is complete, each wheel is carefully tended to during the affinage process, with particular attention to controlled temperature and humidity levels. ABOUT ARTEQUESO: Artequeso is a family-run business dedicated to producing high-quality cheese in La Mancha, Spain. Utilizing traditional methods and the finest Manchega sheep’s milk, they have crafted a reputation for excellence. Their products reflect a commitment to authenticity, heritage, and environmental sustainability, embodying the rich culinary tradition of the region. Artequeso’s cheeses are celebrated for their distinct flavors and textures, achieved through meticulous care in every step of the cheesemaking process. For more details, click here. Information and Photo © Zuercher & Co. and Artequeso- All Rights Reserved.

hooks-5-year-cheddarHook’s Cheese Company Inc. Five-Year Aged Cheddar Mineral Point, Wisconsin

Made with pasteurized cow’s milk, featuring a vegetarian rennet, Hook’s Five-Year Aged Cheddar Cheese is a customer favorite. It is sharp, acidic, and a perfect accompaniment to any cheese board. It is made in five-pound blocks, which allows the cheese to develop rich, complex flavors over time. In some years, delicate proteins form crunchy pockets of caramelized goodness. FOOD PAIRING: Make a yummy cheese and charcuterie board with dried fruits, bitter chocolate, quince paste, olives, pate, cornichon pickles, grained mustard, peppadew peppers, marinated artichoke hearts, assorted salami, and prosciutto. WINE & CRAFT BEER PAIRING: When pairing this cheese with white wines, reach for a Riesling, Chardonnay or anything with bubbles. For a red wine, grab a Syrah or Pinot Noir. For our beer lovers out there, enjoy with a Saison, Cider or Belgian Ale; and if you want to get really fancy with it, pair this cheese with your favorite Bourbon! WINESTYLES: Rich or Bold BEERSTYLES: Fruity & Spicy or Crisp & Clean
Hook's Cheese Company

© Photo by Hook’s Cheese Company, Inc.

ABOUT HOOK’S CHEESE COMPANY: In 1970 Tony Hook began apprenticing at a small cheese factory in Barneveld and got his cheesemakers license in 1972. In 1976, college sweethearts, Tony and Julie, formed Hook’s Cheese Company. At that time they only produced Cheddar and some Swiss. Since then, they have not only grown into a much larger factory, they have also expanded their lines of cheese. This duo continues to produce award winning cheeses including Colby, Monterey Jack, Maple Jack, Muenster, Cheddar, Pepper Jack, Parmesan, Swiss, Havarti, Gouda, Blue Cheese and many others. Information and photo © Zuercher & Co., Fromagination and Hook’s Cheese Company- 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

Hubbards-Cave-Milk-Of-The-Murder-Hornet-IPA-Blueberry-canHubbard’s Cave
Milk of the Murder Hornet
Blueberry
Milkshake IPA
Niles, Illinois

Hubbard’s Cave has artfully crafted this brew with Mosaic hops, bursting with berry flavors, real blueberries, smooth vanilla, and creamy lactose. When pouring, it reveals a rich, hazy purple hue, topped with a dense, creamy head. The nose is an aromatic bouquet of freshly picked blackberries with subtle hints of citrus and floral notes from the hops. Overall, this Imperial Pale Ale showcases the creativity of the craft experts at Hubbard’s Cave.

ABV: 8.5% alcohol / volume
IBU: N/A

Style: IPA – Imperial/Double Milkshake
Beer Style: Hoppy & Bitter


Hubbards-Cave-Milk-Of-The-Murder-Hornet-Orange-Milkshake-IPA-canHubbard’s Cave
Milk of the Murder Hornet
Orange
Milkshake IPA
Niles, Illinois

This Milkshake Imperial Pale Ale with lactose vanilla and orange is a treat for those who love orange creamsicles! It pours hazy with lemony, orange-yellow tones. The aroma is reminiscent of an orange creamsicle, with prominent sugary notes and hints of lemon. The flavor follows suit, blending sweet orange cream with sweetness that finishes with a medium bitterness. It has a creamy, smooth, medium body.  Overall, this beer is much like a slightly bitter creamsicle.

ABV: 8.5% alcohol / volume
IBU: N/A
Style:
IPA – Imperial/Double Milkshake

Beer Style: Hoppy & Bitter


Une-Annee-Peche-American-Wild-Ale-canUne Année Brewery
Pêche
American Wild Ale
Niles, Illinois

This American Wild Ale with peaches pours an opaque yellow-gold with no head. The aroma blends notes of sweet peaches with creamy vanilla, tart lemon and a hint of pepper. The taste is funky, featuring tart peach and lemon with malt and vanilla. Sharp oak, white pepper, tart peach and light bitter notes emerge on the finish. Medium-bodied with mild carbonation, it has a refreshing and tart mouthfeel. Overall, it’s clean, nicely sour and very enjoyable.

ABV: 6.5% alcohol / volume
IBU: N/A
Style:
Wild Ale – American

Beer Style: Sour, Tart, and Funky


Une-Annee-No-canUne Année Brewery
No Regrets
American Wile Ale
Niles, Illinois

American Wild Ale is fermented with limes and dry-hopped with Mosaic hops. The aroma is intensely sour and filled with citrus notes, dominated by lime, with hints of yeast and orange sherbet. The taste is very tart, similar to a sour beer. On the palate, lime is the predominant flavor, complemented by notes of orange sherbet and grape. There are subtle oak undertones with a touch of yeast and a hint of salt that appear on the finish. The mouthfeel is exceptionally smooth, slightly acidic, and dry on the finish. Overall, this is a delicious beer with a balanced tartness and sweetness that ebb and flow beautifully. 

ABV: 5.5% alcohol / volume
IBU: N/A
Style:
Wild Ale – American

Beer Style: Sour, Tart, and Funky


Hubbard's Cave + Une Année

Photo by Hubbard’s Cave: Une Année and Hubbard’s Cave Brewery

ABOUT THE BREWERIES:

Une Année:
Une Année is an independent craft brewery, born in 2013 near the west side of Chicago, with the quest of making fine Belgian inspired ales for all beer lovers.

Founded by architect, former Marine, and Chicago native, Jerry Nelson, the brewery has since become a family operation when Jerry’s brother, Dave joined in. The name was inspired by Jerry’s architecture abroad program in Versailles, France. Une Année, meaning “One Year” in French, began with a seasonal rotation of annual Belgian beers, which have since become weekly and bi-weekly releases. 

Une Année has expanded its offerings over the years with an emphasis on fruited and unfruited American Wild Ales (read: Sour Beers) and Barrel Aged Stouts. In 2017, the brewery moved to a neighboring Chicago suburb, Niles, IL, and expanded to include a taproom. The new brewery allows everyone to get home more frequently for quality time with the kids. Learn more here, and follow them on Untappd.

Hubbard’s Cave:
In 2015, Hubbard’s Cave was developed as an alternative to Une Année’s Belgian style ales. Producing American style ales, primarily imperial stouts and Hubbard’s Cave signature Fresh IPAs, Hubbard’s Cave is a refreshing addition to the Une Année family. Named after the Chicago Hubbard Street traffic tunnel on Interstate 90/94, next to where the brewery was born, Hubbard’s Cave has quickly grown to produce some of their most popular offerings. Learn more here, and follow them on Untappd

Photos and information © Une Annee and Hubbard’s Cave – All Rights Reserved.


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Bodega Ramon Ramos Montetoro Malvasía

seasoned-grilled-fish-recipeSimple Seasoned Grilled Fish

INGREDIENTS:

  • 16 ounces fish fillets (four 4-ounce fillets)
  • 4 teaspoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ lemon
  • chopped parsley for garnish, optional

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Start by preheating your pan or grill. Place the grill pan, skillet, or sauté pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat and let it warm while you prep the fish fillets. If you’re using an indoor electric grill, go ahead and heat it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  2. Brush one side of the fish fillets lightly with olive oil.
  3. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, Old Bay, and paprika.
  4. Place the fillets on the pan or grill with the seasoned side down.
  5. Brush the second side with olive oil and sprinkle with additional seasonings.
  6. Cook the fillets for about 2 minutes. Use a wide spatula to turn the fillets over and cook an additional 2 minutes. (Note: If using an indoor grill, place the fillets on the preheated grill and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For the George Foreman grill, it takes approximately 4 minutes.)
  7. Transfer the cooked fillets to a plate. Sprinkle with chopped parsley (optional) and drizzle with lemon juice.

© Recipe courtesy of Lana’s Cooking.

JUNE WINE CLUB:

Crisp Wine Stylemonte-toro-14-malvasia-bottleBodega Ramón Ramos
Montetoro 14
Malavasía

Toro, Spain

CRISP WINE STYLE

Pale gold yellow, intense, crisp and shiny. Very persistent fruity aroma and mineral afterthought. Medium to highly intense aroma, ripe apple, banana, pear. Warm sensations with a lightly bitter finish.

Varietal: 100% Malvasía
Average production per hectare: 3000 kg
Vineyard’s age:
Pre-phylloxeric
Harvest: September, manual
Aging in bottle:
3 months
Appellation: Toro, Spain
Elaboration:
Pressed, light chilled maceration process, followed by its removal from the tanks, so that the obtained must can ferment cleanly
Pairing:
Perfect for grilled fishes, appetizers, soft cheeses.

Vineyards:
The vineyards are located between 605 and 700 meters high, on sandy soils. The average production per hectare is 4000 kg. The vines vary in ages, from the youngest at 25 years and up to 120 years old, pre-phylloxera
for the oldest. These exquisite vineyards are the guiding star for all their wines.

Production:
The winery utilizes small concrete tanks to make all of their wines, before going through the aging process. These tanks are optimal for the production of wines, as they allow the temperature to be stable. The aging takes place in French and American oak barrels. Each wine requires different aging to preserve their individuality. All of their wines have at least six months aging in the bottle before released to market.

About Bodega Ramón Ramos:
Bodega Ramón Ramos was founded in 1963. It is located in Venialbo province of Samora and part of the D.O. Toro since 1989. The ancient cellar excavated by hand centuries ago was the foundation and inspiration of the winery.  Today, it houses a museum that explains the trajectory, history and experience of the humble family that had the dream of living off the land and its wines.  Nowadays, Bodega Ramón Ramos has a state of the art modern winery, but still maintains the essence of their wine traditions. They owns 60 hectares of vineyards of Tinta de Toro, Moscatelde Grano Menudo and Malvasia varieties. Manual harvesting allows them to select specific fruit, a task that greatly influences the quality of their wines. The terroir is an unequivocal protagonist of each of their wines. Learn more here.

Three generations of Ramon Ramos winemakers

Ramon Ramos family of three generation winemakers.

Information & Photos © Bodega Ramón Ramos – 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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Bodega Ramon Ramos Montetoro Añada Organico

flourless-chocolate-cake-recipeFlourless Chocolate Cake

INGREDIENTS:

  • For the cake:
    • 1 cup  semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
    • ½ cup unsalted butter
    • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 3 large eggs slightly beaten
    • ½ cup  Dutch process cocoa powder
  • For the chocolate ganache:
    • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
    • ½ cup heavy cream

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat oven to 375ºF. Grease an 8 inch round cake pan with nonstick cooking spray. Cut a piece of parchment to fit the bottom of the pan. Place it in the bottom of the pan and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside. 
  2. To make the cake, place the chocolate and butter in a large microwave-safe bowl, and heat until the butter is melted and the chips are soft, about one minute. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. If you need to reheat, do so for 10 seconds at a time and stir. 
  3. Add the sugar, salt, and vanilla extract and stir to combine. 
  4. Add the eggs and stir until smooth. Add the cocoa powder and stir until just combined. Don’t over mix. 
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until the cake has a thin crust on the top and the center registers 200°F on an instant-read thermometer.
  6. Let the cake cool on a wire cooling rack for 10 minutes. Loosen the edges of the pan with a butter knife and carefully turn it upside down onto a cake plate or serving plate. The bottom of the cake will now be the top of the cake. Let the cake cool completely. 
  7. While the cake is cooling, make the chocolate ganache. Combine the chocolate chips and cream in a medium microwave-safe bowl, and heat until the cream is very hot so it will melt the chocolate. I always start with 30 seconds and check it. It might take longer, it just depends on your microwave. Remove from the microwave, and stir until the the chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth. 
  8. Spread the chocolate ganache glaze evenly over the cooled cake. Let the glaze set up for a few hours before cutting and serving the cake. I always put it in the refrigerator to speed up the process. 
  9. Cut the cake into slices and serve with powdered sugar and raspberries, if desired. This cake is also great with whipped cream or ice cream.

© Recipe courtesy of Two Peas and Their Pod.

JUNE WINE CLUB:

Mellow style logoMontetoro-organic-joven-tinto-bottleBodega Ramón Ramos
Montetoro 3 Añada Organico
Tinta de Toro
Toro, Spain

MELLOW WINE STYLE

Bright, clean, intense in color and medium-high layer, compact rim and very intense deep-red color. The fruit is the protagonist. Very aromatic, wild black fruits and ripe red fruits. Palate is fresh, intense and full of flavor. Well balanced, good acidity and easy palate that invites you to continue tasting.

Varietal: 100% Tinta de Toro
Age of vines: 20/30 years old
Average production per hectare:
4500 kg
Harvest: End of September, manual
Appellation: Toro, Spain
Elaboration: After choosing the best vines, the grapes were transported into the winery where they were stripped, lightly pressed and deposited in the tanks to be fermented at a controlled temperature. After racking, the wine was slightly filtered before bottling which helps to maintain all its aromas.
Time in bottle:
3 months
Maturation in bottle:
6 months
Pairing:
Baked chorizo, venison, Iberic ham, white beans with sausage, semi-mature cheeses and even desserts with chocolate.

Vineyards:
The vineyards are located between 605 and 700 meters high, on sandy soils. The average production per hectare is 4000 kg. The vines vary in ages, from the youngest at 25 years and up to 120 years old, pre-phylloxera
for the oldest. These exquisite vineyards are the guiding star for all their wines.

Production:
The winery utilizes small concrete tanks to make all of their wines, before going through the aging process. These tanks are optimal for the production of wines, as they allow the temperature to be stable. The aging takes place in French and American oak barrels. Each wine requires different aging to preserve their individuality. All of their wines have at least six months aging in the bottle before released to market.

About Bodega Ramón Ramos:
Bodega Ramón Ramos was founded in 1963. It is located in Venialbo province of Samora and part of the D.O. Toro since 1989. The ancient cellar excavated by hand centuries ago was the foundation and inspiration of the winery.  Today, it houses a museum that explains the trajectory, history and experience of the humble family that had the dream of living off the land and its wines.  Nowadays, Bodega Ramón Ramos has a state of the art modern winery, but still maintains the essence of their wine traditions. They owns 60 hectares of vineyards of Tinta de Toro, Moscatelde Grano Menudo and Malvasia varieties. Manual harvesting allows them to select specific fruit, a task that greatly influences the quality of their wines. The terroir is an unequivocal protagonist of each of their wines. Learn more here.

Bodega Ramon Ramos winery

Information & Photos © Bodega Ramón Ramos – 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 >

 
 
 

 

 

June Wine Club Pairing Recipe

duck-breast-recipeGrilled Duck Breast

(If you don’t have access to/don’t like duck, try this recipe with chicken breast instead.)

INGREDIENTS:

  • ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons minced garlic
  • ½ teaspoon hot sauce
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 skinned, boned duck breast halves (or chicken breast)

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Gather all ingredients.
  2. Stir together Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, garlic, hot sauce, and pepper in a large bowl. Add duck breasts; toss well to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator, 30 minutes to overnight.
  3. Preheat the grill for medium-high heat.
  4. Remove duck from marinade and cook on the preheated grill to desired doneness, 5 to 7 minutes per side. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165º F. Discard marinade. Cook time will depend on the size of the duck breast and the temperature of the grill.

© Recipe courtesy of All Recipes.

JUNE WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logomonte-toro-roble-5-bottleBodega Ramón Ramos
Montetoro Roble 5

Toro, Spain

BOLD WINE STYLE

Intense violet hues denoting youth, appearance like ink. The nose is fruity and complex. The oak, although is in the background, is very integrated into the fruit. The palate is full-bodied, elegant, long and harmonious.

Varietal: 100% Tinta de Toro
Average production per hectare: 4000 kg
Age of vines:
30/50 years old
Harvest:
Mid-September, handpicked
Barrel type:
French oak, medium toasted
Time in barrel:
6 months
Maturation in bottle:
12 months
Appellation: Toro, Spain
Pairing:
Galician lamprey, rabbit stew, duck breast

Vineyards:
The vineyards are located between 605 and 700 meters high, on sandy soils. The average production per hectare is 4000 kg. The vines vary in ages, from the youngest at 25 years and up to 120 years old, pre-phylloxera
for the oldest. These exquisite vineyards are the guiding star for all their wines.

Production:
The winery utilizes small concrete tanks to make all of their wines, before going through the aging process. These tanks are optimal for the production of wines, as they allow the temperature to be stable. The aging takes place in French and American oak barrels. Each wine requires different aging to preserve their individuality. All of their wines have at least six months aging in the bottle before released to market.

About Bodega Ramón Ramos:
Bodega Ramón Ramos was founded in 1963. It is located in Venialbo province of Samora and part of the D.O. Toro since 1989. The ancient cellar excavated by hand centuries ago was the foundation and inspiration of the winery.  Today, it houses a museum that explains the trajectory, history and experience of the humble family that had the dream of living off the land and its wines.  Nowadays, Bodega Ramón Ramos has a state of the art modern winery, but still maintains the essence of their wine traditions. They owns 60 hectares of vineyards of Tinta de Toro, Moscatelde Grano Menudo and Malvasia varieties. Manual harvesting allows them to select specific fruit, a task that greatly influences the quality of their wines. The terroir is an unequivocal protagonist of each of their wines. Learn more here.

Bodega Ramon Ramos three generations of winemakers

Three generations of Ramon Ramos family of winemakers.

Information & Photos © Bodega Ramón Ramos – All Rights Reserved.


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May Cheese Club: Iowa

Cheese ClubJura Montage CheeseLe Superbe Jura Montagne Switzerland

Although many mountain cheeses have a similar basic nuttiness, they all have amazing subtleties of flavor and texture. Jura Montagne has a profoundly beefy, and savory smell with hints of toasted bread and grass. Jura Montagne is a small wheel in comparison to many mountain cheeses. The wheel has a natural rind that is formed from salting, turning and then brining the outside during affinage which gives the wheel its piquant finish. WINE & CRAFT BEER PAIRINGS: Enjoy with Rich style white wines, or pair with a craft beer Ale. WINESTYLES: Rich BEERSTYLES: Crisp & Clean Information and photo © Zuercher & Co. and Le Superbe – All Rights Reserved.

Fior cheese SwitzerlandFior delle Alpi (Flower of the Alps Switzerland

Fior delle Alpi or Flower of the Alps, is a deliciously flavorful raw cow’s milk cheese from the mountains of Switzerland. Made with milk from cows who graze on lush mountain grass and meadow herbs results in a fruity and gently spiced cheese with a subtle crunch. Fior delle Alpi, is matured for up to 12 months and has a rich oniony flavor, very savory, like a brothy stew. WINE & CRAFT BEER PAIRINGS: Enjoy with lighter white and red wines or Pilsner craft beer. WINESTYLES: Crisp & Mellow BEERSTYLES: Crisp & Clean Information and Photo © Zuercher & Co. – All Rights Reserved.

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May Sweet Club: Iowa

Sweet Wine ClubCarl-Sittman-Riesling-BottleCarl Sittmann
Riesling

Mosel, Germany

NECTAR WINE STYLE

The Carl Sittmann Riesling features notes of green apples, pears, and apricots on the nose. Its sweet peach and apple flavors are delicately offset by crisp acidity, ensuring the wine remains elegantly refreshing and not overly sweet.

Analysis: 9.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal:
100% Riesling
Region: Mosel, Germany

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Reach for a tangy goat’s milk cheese to complement the wine’s acidity and fruity notes. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Photo and Information © Carl Sittmann – All Rights Reserved


tdo-moscato-bottle-imageTerra d’Oro
Moscato

Amador County, California

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Inviting aromas of honey, white peach, honeysuckle, pineapple and lemon zest lead into vibrant flavors of Meyer lemon, pineapple and a hint of anise. The wine has a pleasing viscosity on the palate and finishes with fresh acidity. This makes the Terra d’Oro Moscato extremely versatile and enjoyable with a meal as well as after it. Try it with spicy Asian cuisine, or a fruit tart.

Analysis: 9.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal:
100% Moscato
Acidity: 0.63 g/100mL
pH: 3.27

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: If you’re looking for a dessert pairing, mascarpone cheese topped with some tart fruit jam is a fantastic choice. Its creamy texture and mild flavor with a punch from the jam will pair well with the sweetness of Moscato, making it suitable for desserts or as a simple, luxurious treat. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Vineyard Notes:
Moscato, also called Muscat, is grown in nearly every wine-producing region in the world, resulting in an array of styles. It is believed the name derived from the French word “Musque”, meaning “perfumed”— a fitting moniker for this intensely aromatic variety. Grapes were sourced from several select vineyards to create a wine with that perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. 

Winemaker Notes:
When making the Moscato, the goal was to craft a wine that is full of flavor with perceptible sweetness, yet is still light on the palate. The Terra d’Oro Moscato is crafted in a different manner than their other varietals. Grapes are destemmed and crushed in stainless steel tanks and left overnight before pressing. This “cap and drain” method keeps the grapes in contact with their skins for an extended period, delivering greater varietal intensity. After gentle pressing, 70% of the juice is inoculated with yeast. The remaining unfermented juice is kept at a very low temperature and then added back into the blend after fermentation to create a lightly sweet and refreshing wine with a lower alcohol. 

About the Winery:
Amador’s first winery established after Prohibition was founded in 1970 by renowned winemaker Cary Gott, and he released the first wines under the Terra d’Oro label in 1973. Terra d’Oro’s early success with Amador Zinfandel and other wines, in particular Italian varietals, were key in helping re-establish the region’s reputation for fine wine. In 1988, the Trinchero family, which had been purchasing grapes from the Amador region for 20 years, purchased the winery and 240-acre vineyard. Over the years, the family invested in subsequent vineyards, and in early 2000, completed construction of a new, state-of-the-art winery at the site of the original winery, designed to unlock the potential of each acre of Terra d’Oro’s vineyards. Today, Terra d’Oro farms produces award-winning wines from its 800+ acres of sustainably farmed vines in Amador County and the Clarksburg AVA. Learn more about their sustainable practices here.

Photo and Information © Terra d’Oro Winery – All Rights Reserved


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May Beer Club: Iowa

Zombie-KillerB. Nektar Meadery
Blood Orange Zombie Killer
Hard Cider

Ferndale, Michigan

Hard cider with blood orange juice and honey. Aromas of oranges, apples, and honey. Very fruity and flavorful, medium sweetness, and light tartness.  100% Gluten Free.

ABV: 5.5% alcohol / volume
IBU: N/A

Style: Cider – Sweet
Beer Style: Fruity


orangecreamdelightB. Nektar Meadery
Orange Cream Delight
Mead
Ferndale, Michigan

Are you ready for a summertime treat with an adult spin? This orange creamsicle is for you! Enjoy the gentle nostalgia of hot summer days and sticky popsicles with this one. 100% Gluten Free.

ABV: 5.9% alcohol / volume
IBU: N/A
Style:
Mead – Session / Short

Beer Style: Fruity


tropical_cream_delightB. Nektar Meadery
Tropical Cream Delight
Mead
Ferndale, Michigan

Aromas of coconut, honey, pineapple, orange, mango and vanilla. Creamy sweet honey flavor with light mango. Enjoy this mead with tropical flavors and vanilla on a hot tropical night. 100% Gluten Free.

ABV: 5.9% alcohol / volume
IBU: N/A
Style:
Mead – Other

Beer Style: Fruity


strawberry_cream_delightB. Nektar Meadery
Strawberry Cream Delight
Mead
Ferndale, Michigan

A refreshing strawberry and vanilla beverage with added lactose for a creamy texture. It’s the adult version of a popsicle!

ABV: 5.9% alcohol / volume
IBU: N/A
Style:
Mead – Other

Beer Style: Fruity

ABOUT THE BREWERY:
Known for the most amazing and creative alcoholic beverages made from honey, B. Nektar makes meads, ciders, and beers that extend beyond the traditional – they let their imaginations guide them. B. Nektar was the first meadery to join the ranks on the Top 100 Best Breweries in the World by Ratebeer.com.

THE B.NEKTAR STORY:
B. Nektar Meadery was founded in 2006 by Brad and Kerri Dahlhofer. Brad has been an avid homebrewer since 1998, making beers, meads, ciders, and wine for his own enjoyment. When Brad and Kerri got married in 2005, he made a mead to toast with at their wedding and received great reviews from the guests. Jokingly, he said that he’d someday open a meadery. They soon began making meads in their basement and those meads quickly began winning awards at homebrewing competitions.
In the summer of 2006, Kerri was laid-off from her job. While sipping a glass of vanilla cinnamon mead made by Brad, she thought, “Why not try to sell this?” It was then that they decided to take their mead making to the next level. In the spring of 2008, Brad too fell victim to layoffs, and the they worked night and day to prepare for their opening. After nearly two years since its inception, B. Nektar finally opened its doors on August 2, 2008 (National Mead Day).

B. Nektar’s session meads and hard ciders are now shaping the craft revolution.  To say it’s been a long road from the home-brewing days would be a tremendous understatement, but B. Nektar continues to increase their production capacity and is currently the largest meadery in the U.S.A.  Learn more here, and follow them on Untappd.

Photos and information © B. Nektar Meadery – All Rights Reserved.


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