July Sweet Club Iowa

Posted on June 26, 2021 by mcginnessalex

Römerhof
Riesling Kabinett
Mosel, Germany

NECTAR WINE STYLE

The Römerhof Riesling Kabinett is a well-balanced young wine. It highlights flavors and aromas of peaches and citrus, and is fresh and fruity with a crisp acidity.

Analysis: 8.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Riesling
Region: Mosel, Germany
Vineyard: Very ripe Riesling grapes from the middle of the Mosel Valley of Germany are used in making this wine. These grapes are allowed to hang longer, earning the designation of ‘Kabinett’.
Pairing: The sweetness from this wine makes it a perfect pairing to aged cheeses, chicken and cream sauces.

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.

WINEMAKER NOTES:
“Drought and heat as well as the fear of heavy rain were of primary concern. As in the other regions, vine development was well ahead of the average and picking started in mid-September. The grapes were healthy which brought much relief. September brought rain, but thanks to cool nights it did not lead to rot.” – Römerhof Winery

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Römerhof Winery is owned by Heinz Eifel, whose family has been producing wines in the heart of the Mosel Valley for over 400 years. Based in the village of Trittenheim, Heinz works closely with his winemaker daughter, Anne Eifel-Spohr, to produce award winning Rieslings. Learn more about their history here.

Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery
Semi-Dry Riesling
Finger Lakes, New York

NECTAR WINE STYLE

A delicate Semi-Dry Riesling initially, then rounding out to be tropically ripe. It is brimming with notes of apricot, nectarine, and a hint of pineapple. Flavors of citrusy lemon and acacia blossom balance the sweetness effortlessly.

Analysis: 11.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Riesling
RS: 22 g/L
pH: 3.11
TA: 7.0 g/L
Vineyard: Seneca and Keuka Vineyards
Vinification: De-Stemmed. Direct Press.
Vessel: Stainless Steel. Temperature Controlled.
Fermentation: Traditional. No Malolactic Fermentation.
Élevage: Unoaked. Aged 5 months on the lees.
Dryness: Semi-Dry. 2.2% Residual Sugar
Pairing: Enjoy with Middle Eastern, Moroccan, Thai or Asian cuisines. This wine pairs exceptionally well with ingredients such as pepper, ginger, curry, sesame, soy, spicy BBQ, and pork.

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:
“Budbreak and flowering started about two weeks later than normal. Temperatures during the summer were moderate, August and September were cooler than average. Luckily, the weather in the fall was extremely favorable with extended periods of sunny and dry days followed by cool nights. This offered excellent conditions to fully ripen the grapes well into October.

Riesling was first brought to the Finger Lakes by our founder. Those original vines dating back to 1958 are still in production. Riesling blocks on our Keuka vineyard were planted in 1958, 1962, 1968, 1976, 1999, 2006, and 2012 with various clones (88, 90, 11, 318, 239, 49, 110, 38). Soils here are shallow, shale-based which add minerality, acidity, and elegance. Riesling was planted in 2007, 2008, 2010, and 2012 on our Seneca estate vineyard with 90 and 356 clones. Temperatures here are a few degrees warmer than Keuka, thus providing riper fruit notes. Soils on Seneca are characterized by deep Honeoye silt loam.” – Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery is a family owned and operated winery situated on the southwestern hills of Keuka Lake. In 1958, Dr. Konstantin Frank planted his first Vinifera vines, igniting the “Vinifera Revolution” – forever changing the course of winemaking in New York. Four generations later, the Frank family continues to grow their winery throughout the Finger Lakes region. Learn more about their story here.

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

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July Wine Club Pairing Recipe

Posted on June 26, 2021 by mcginnessalex

Wild Mushroom Risotto

INGREDIENTS:

1 pound wild mushrooms torn or sliced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 shallots diced
4 cloves garlic minced
1 cup Arborio rice
1/2 cup dry white wine
2 1/2 cups chicken stock
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup Mascarpone cheese
chives to garnish
lemon wedges
kosher salt and white pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

In a large skillet over medium high heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 7-9 minutes until they are soft and starting to caramelize. Season with salt and transfer to a clean plate.
In the same skillet heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shallot and sauté until translucent. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Add the Arborio rice to the skillet, making sure to stir it around in the olive oil so that each granule is coated with it, and toast it for about 90 seconds.
Add the white wine and stir the rice until all the wine has been absorbed and then start adding the chicken stock ½ cup at a time, making sure not to add more until the previous addition has been absorbed.
Once the rice is tender, add the Parmesan and Mascarpone cheese and combine. Add the previously sautéed mushrooms and carefully combine into the risotto. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chives and a squeeze or two of lemon juice and serve.

JULY WINE CLUB:

Eola Hills Wine Cellars
Persnickety Pinot Noir
Oregon

MELLOW WINE STYLE

A collaboration by Head Winemaker, Steve Anderson, and Assistant Winemaker, Steve Richards, of Eola Hills Wine Cellars. The Persnickety Pinot Noir is violet in color. The nose highlights aromas of black cherry, raspberry and toasted oak; while on the palate there are flavors of black fruits, toast and caramel. This is a full-body wine, that is rich and expressive with a polished finish.

Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir

Analysis: 13.8% alcohol / volume

TA: 0.56
PH: 3.6
Residual Sugar: 0 g/L
Brix At Harvest: 22.5-24.5

Production: 800 cases
Sourcing: Premium vineyards throughout the Willamette Valley, Eola-Amity Hills, Umpqua Valley and Rogue Valley AVAs.

Food Pairing: It is recommended to pair this Pinot Noir with earthy dishes such as a creamy wild mushroom risotto. For cheeses, look for a selection of Camembert, Gruyere or Goat Cheese.

Eola-Hills-Steve-Anderson-winemaker-1-600x900

Head Winemaker, Steve Anderson

WINEMAKER NOTES:
“Forecasts for end of season rains in Northern Oregon had some growers worried about early picking, but others took their chances and were rewarded with longer hang time and a great finish. Southern Oregon vineyards balanced out lower yields making our Classic Pinot another premium representation of this distinctive grape in Oregon. A dark-fruited, juicy profile is balanced by toasty spice and vanilla notes from an oak regime combining time spent in both French and American barrels.” – Steve Anderson, Head Winemaker.

ABOUT EOLA HILLS WINE CELLARS:
In the early 1980’s, Oregonian Tom Huggins found himself intrigued by the notion of creating great regional wines in the heart of the Willamette Valley. With close friends and family members, they invested in purchasing 35 acres that Tom thought was ideal for growing grapes. Today, Eola Hills Wine Cellars is still locally owned and operated and one of Oregon’s largest wineries, farming over 325 acres of prime vineyard land. They produce over 80,000 cases of fine wines that are enjoyed across the country and internationally, capturing the spirit and flavors of Oregon. Learn more here.

Join 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 >

July Premium Wine Club

Posted on June 24, 2021 by mcginnessalex

Eola Hills Wine Cellars
Reserve Old Vine Zinfandel
Oregon

BOLD WINE STYLE

The Reserve Old Vine Zinfandel is garnet red in color. On the nose, there are flavors of plum, cranberry and strawberry jam. It is medium-bodied with notes of craisins, cedar and spice on the palate.

Analysis: 14.43% alcohol / volume
RS: 4 g/L
TA: 0.52
pH: 3.89
Brix At Harvest: +27.3
Production: 420 cases
Food Pairing: This wine pairs well with roasts, grilled game and turkey. Enjoy alone, or try it with an orange marinated smoked duck, or chanterelles and sage.

WINEMAKER NOTES:
“This Zinfandel was picked from young vines on the Mohr-Fry ranch. Fermented at cool temperatures to extract soft tannins, then barrel-aged in older American Oak for 13 months. A minimum of handling, a maximum of fruit expression. A spiced entry, jammy mid-palate, followed with a balanced smoothness.” – Eola Hills Wine Cellars

Eola Hills Wine Cellars
Barrel Select Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Oregon

BOLD WINE STYLE

Black Cherry in color, the Barrel Select Reserve Cabernet showcases aromas of cola, oregano, and smoke. It has a medium body with a bright mid-palate, highlighting flavors of cassis and smoke with a velvety finish.

Analysis: 13.9% alcohol / volume
RS: 0.0 g/L
TA: 0.75
pH: 3.45
Brix At Harvest: 22.5-24
Production: 625 cases
Food Pairing: This wine pairs well with anything from chocolate cake, pudding, and chocolate chip cookies, to smoked pork chops with green beans, asparagus, or your favorite BBQ recipe.

WINEMAKER NOTES:
“With this bottle of reserve cabernet, winemaker Steve Anderson aged the grapes for 33 months in 6% new oak and ultimately decided to let the grapes speak for themselves.” – Eola Hills Wine Cellars

Eola Hills Wine Cellars
Wedding Block Pinot Noir
Oregon

MELLOW WINE STYLE

If discovering a great wine feels a bit like falling in love, this Pinot Noir delivers. Exuberant red currants and lush layers of dark bramble fruits surrounds a structured palate rich with cola, baking spices and a resonant finish. The perfect pairing for any special day.

Analysis: 14.2% alcohol / volume
RS: 0 g/L
TA: 0.55 g/L
pH: 3.71
Brix At Harvest: 23.8-24.5
Production: 150 cases
Vineyards: Eola Hills’ Wolf Hill Vineyard – Eola Amity Hills AVA
Elevation: 283 feet
Vine Age: 22.8 years (average)
Acres: 43
Soil Profile: Jory, Nekia, Hazelair, Woodburn, Willamette, Dupee, Concord
Food Pairing: This Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with a seared tuna rolled in peppercorns, or any dish with notes of ginger, thyme and fresh rosemary. Try with a garlic stuffed pork roast marinated in red wine, vinegar and rosemary.

WINEMAKER NOTES:
“If you follow Eola Hills closely, you know Steve Anderson is our longtime winemaker. What you may not know is that he and his lovely wife, Nancy, said their vows under the great oaks at our Wolf Hill Vineyard on July 9th, 2005. In honor of love and saying their “I do’s”, Steve designated the name “Wedding Block” to this special plot of land in the Eola-Amity Hills, which is planted to Pinot Noir Dijon clones 114 and 667, and Pommard. With rich notes of bramble fruits and baking spices, our big, structured 2019 Wedding Block Pinot Noir will age beautifully – much like a good love story.” – Eola Hills Wine Cellars

Winemaker Steve Anderson

PODCAST WITH EOLA HILLS WINERY:
Our WineStyles team recently hosted special guest Brett Huggins of Eola Hills Winery on our Boozie Banter podcast. We talk about his family winery, Oregon wine, gleaning, moving to the Midwest and taste eight of his wines from their expansive portfolio. Attend our July 21st Winery Spotlight tasting event with winemaker Steve Anderson and experience Eola Hills yourself! Meanwhile, listen to the full podcast on Spotify here >

Join our PREMIUM WINE CLUB, enjoy amazing wines every other month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

Learn more about our Premium Club >

Winery Spotlight: July 21 Eola Hills Wine Cellars

Posted on June 17, 2021 by mcginnessalex

Wine Tasting Event

Eola Hills Wine Cellars
Willamette Valley, Oregon

Wednesday, July 21, 2021
6:00pm CST / 7:00pm EST

Join us for a wine tasting event, featuring Eola Hills from Willamette Valley, Oregon with guest speaker Steve Anderson on Zoom. As Head Winemaker and General Manager, he will be guiding us through a tasting of seven Eola Hills wines:

Pinot Gris
Lucent White Pinot Noir
Riesling
Sparkling Blanc de Blancs
Patriot Red Blend
Classic Pinot Noir
Barrel Select Pinot Noir

To reserve a table and attend the wine tasting in person, please call your local WineStyles store. Or if you prefer to attend remotely, from the comfort of your home, pre-order a wine tasting kit-to-go and watch on Zoom.

About Eola Hills:

In the early 1980’s, Oregonian Tom Huggins found himself intrigued by the notion of creating great regional wines in the heart of the Willamette Valley. With close friends and family members, they invested in purchasing 35 acres that Tom thought was ideal for growing grapes. Today, Eola Hills Wine Cellars is still locally owned and operated and one of Oregon’s largest wineries, farming over 325 acres of prime vineyard land. They produce over 80,000 cases of fine wines that are enjoyed across the country and internationally, capturing the spirit and flavors of Oregon. Learn more >

About Steve Anderson – General Manager and Head Winemaker:

Steve Anderson started his wine making career at the age of thirteen with is neighbor’s grapes and a 5-gallon bucket. His project was greatly encouraged by his parents, who gladly partook in the results of his experiments. Steve continued his career by studying Horticulture at Oregon State University. Two years into his degree, he ran out of funds and joined the U.S. Army to receive the Army College Fund. After three years as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal technician, Steve graduated from OSU with plans to become a nurseryman. In 1993, joined the Eola Hills Wine Cellars team as a “harvest season cellar rat”. He was quickly promoted to Assistant Winemaker, and eventually became Eola’s head winemaker, producing beautiful wines for them ever since. Learn more about his story here.

Podcast with Eola Hills Winery:

WineStyles team recently hosted special guest Brett Huggins of Eola Hills Winery on our Boozie Banter podcast. We talk Oregon wine, his family winery, gleaning, moving to the Midwest and taste 8 wines from their expansive portfolio. Listen to the full broadcast on Spotify here >

Let’s Taste, Learn and Enjoy® together!

Contact your local WineStyles to RSVP for this tasting event.

Eola Hills Wine Cellars Willamette Valley, Oregon

July 21, 2021

6:00pm CST/ 7:00pm EST

Cheers!

WineStyles.com

June Cheese Club: Iowa

Posted on May 27, 2021 by mcginnessalex

Caseificio dell’Alta Langa Rocchetta Italy

The Rocchetta is a blend of three different milks, pasteurized cow’s milk, pasteurized sheep’s milk and pasteurized goat’s milk. It is a slightly ripened soft cheese, without holes, and an edible white/straw yellow rind. Short and careful aging create a creamy balance, allowing the sweetness and acidity to melt together. The palate highlights flavors of butter and crème fraiche. FOOD PAIRING: This cheese eats well on its own, or served alongside cured meats and jams, or in a salad. WINE & CRAFT BEER PAIRING: The Caseificio dell’Alta Langa Rocchetta cheese pairs well with Italian wines, such as our June Primary White Wine Club wine, or a crisp Pinot Grigio. For beer, reach for a Weiss Beer or any pilsner WINESTYLES: Crisp BEERSTYLES: Crisp and Clean ABOUT CASEIFICIO DELL’ALTA LANGA: Based in the Piedmont Hills of Italy, in a small village called Bosia, Caseificio dell’Alta Langa continues to follow traditions of the people who have inhabited this land for centuries. The territory is made up of steep slopes where goats, sheep and cows are herded and modest amounts of milk is milked and produced each day. Learn more about their story here.

Don’t let your Wine Club go home alone! Join our Cheese Club and bring home a match made in heaven!

If you enjoy pairing cheese with wine, this is your club! Each month you’ll discover 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 cheese every month! Only $19.99/month and your wine won’t be lonely! Click to learn more >

June Sweet Club Iowa

Posted on May 26, 2021 by mcginnessalex

Ruffino
Moscato d’Asti DOCG
Piedmont, Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

This sweet wine from the Piedmont region of northwest Italy has an aromatic bouquet and low alcohol content, making it an incredibly pleasant wine to drink. It is bright straw yellow in color. The nose is very fragrant and characteristic of the Moscato varietal. It showcases notes of acacia, elderberry, wisteria and citrus, followed by defined notes of peach, orange blossom and sage. On the palate, the wine delivers a pleasantly sweet taste, with flavors or sage and white stone fruit. Its frizzante wine style and balanced acidity make this wine a versatile companion for lunch, dinner, dessert, or simply on its own.

Analysis: 6% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% White Moscato
Harvest: Mid-September
Serving Temperature: 46°F to 50°F
Serving Glass: Ideally served in a high-stemmed, tulip-shaped glass, allowing the wine to touch the sip of the tongue first, where sweetness is first perceived
Pairing: Moscato d’Asti is a very versatile food companion. It pairs exceptionally well with any type of dessert; or pair with fresh bread, charcuterie, figs, melon or spicy foods.

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

HARVEST AND PRODUCTION:
“We source the grapes for this wine from the Roero, Monferrato and Langhe regions in southern Piedmont. The first stage of Moscato production is a traditional white wine process. The second stage uses the Charmat method in which the wine undergoes a secondary fermentation in tanks and is bottled under pressure to produce light, gently sparkling bubbles and to preserve the fresh, fruit characteristics of the Moscato Bianco grapes.” – Ruffino

ABOUT RUFFINO:
Ruffino is a large wine company based in Tuscany, producing wines from several wine regions in Central and Northern Italy, including Piedmont. The winery was established in 1877 when cousins Ilario and Leopoldo Ruffino took on their passion for winemaking by establishing their first winery. Today, more than 140 years later, Ruffino continues to showcase the heritage of these true Italian wines. Learn more about their history here.

Mondoro
Asti
Piedmont, Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Produced entirely from white muscat (moscato) grapes grown in the strictly delineated Asti region of northern Italy, the wine has a delicately sweet character which makes it delightful and refreshing. It is pale yellow in color with fast moving bubbles. On the nose, there is a distinctive and intense aroma of honey and ripe peach. On the palate, it is an intensely sweet and fruity sparkling wine with hints of orange and candied pears.

Analysis: 7% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Moscato
Country: Italy
Region: Piedmont
Appellation: Asti DOCG
Vineyards: Grapes sourced from Canelli, Santo Stefano Belbo and Calosso

Pairing: Enjoy as an aperitif or with fruit-based desserts.

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

HARVEST AND PRODUCTION:
“The sparkling wine is created with the Asti Method. Grapes are crushed and the juice is stored at a low temperature until it is needed. When the wine is ready to be made, the grape must is warmed and fermentation takes place in pressurized tanks. Carbon dioxide is allowed to escape until the alcohol level reaches 6% and at this point, the Carbon dioxide is retained – which creates the bubbles. The fermentation continues until the alcohol has reached 7-7.5% alcohol by volume and the pressure is close to 5 atmospheres. The fermentation is stopped by chill filtration and the wine is bottled for immediate release.” – Mondoro

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

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Duca Carlo Guarini Burdi Negroamaro

Posted on May 25, 2021 by mcginnessalex

Caprese Pesto Pasta Bake

INGREDIENTS:

3 cups cherry tomatoes
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic minced or grated
1/3 cup fresh chopped herbs, such as thyme or oregano (I like a mix of both)
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
kosher salt and black pepper
1 pound short cut pasta
3/4 cup basil pesto, homemade or store-bought
2–3 cup fresh baby spinach
8 ounces shredded or torn mozzarella or burrata cheese
3 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto (optional)
fresh basil, for serving

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spray a 9 x 13-inch Pyrex deep baking dish with cooking spray.
Cover the bottom of your Pyrex dish with olive oil. In the pan, toss together the cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, herbs, crushed red pepper flakes, and a large pinch of salt and pepper. Transfer to the oven and roast for 10-15 minutes or until the tomatoes collapse.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and add the pasta back to the pot. Immediately toss with the pesto, spinach, and half of the cheese. Add the tomatoes and all the juices from the tomatoes and gently toss to combine. Season with freshly ground black pepper and salt. Transfer the pasta back into the Pyrex dish used to roast the tomatoes.
Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheese over top the pasta, arrange the prosciutto, if using, over the cheese. Transfer to the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the prosciutto is crisp. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy!

JUNE WINE CLUB:

Duca Carlo Guarini
Burdi Negroamaro Rosso IGT Puglia
Scorrano, Italy

BOLD WINE STYLE

A red wine made from Negroamaro organic certified grapes. It is deep ruby red in color. On the nose it is intense of red fruits and berries, while on the palate it is well balanced and fruity. It is suited to all courses, but pairs exceptionally well with roasts, cheeses and pasta.

Varietal: 100% Negroamaro
Analysis: 13% alcohol / volume
Description: IGT Red Puglia
Yield: 100,000 kg. per hectare
Vinification: Nine days maceration with skins, temperature controlled fermentation

ABOUT DUCA CARLO GUARINI:
For centuries, Guarini has cultivated their vineyards in the Puglia region of Italy. Their mission is to protect the heritage of the wines in this region, with organic, native grapes vinified in red, rosé and white. All of their wines are mono-varietal, organic and expertly made to respect and express the land where they grow. Learn more about their history here.

Join 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 >

June Wine Club Pairing Recipe

Posted on May 24, 2021 by mcginnessalex

Grilled Harissa Lamb Chops

Grilled-lamb-Chops-with-Harissa-yogurt-4

INGREDIENTS:

2–3 lbs lamb chops, lamb loin chops or sirloin steaks
Grillable veggies – your choice of Zucchini, summer squash, bell pepper, onion, eggplant, mushrooms, etc.
Spray olive oil (or use regular)
15–20 fresh Mint leaves

Harissa Spice Rub:

1 tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon coriander
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon granulated garlic
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon dried mint
1 teaspoon whole caraway seeds (optional)

Harissa Yogurt:

1 cup plain, full-fat Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon harissa paste (store-bought or homemade Harissa paste) more to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – optional

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat Grill to med-high.
Cut lamb chops into single chops or portions. (Use a sharp chef’s knife and slice in between the bones.) Pat dry.
Mix spices and salt together in a shallow bowl (big enough to fit chop)
Dip both sides of each chop, as well as fatty edge, into the Harissa rub, tap the excess off and place on a sheet pan.
If grilling veggies, lightly toss with olive oil, salt and pepper, and grill these first. Cover, set aside until serving.
Grill the lamb chops. Spray the grill with olive oil spray. Place the chops down and grill 3 minutes (covered) or until good grill marks appear (don’t fiddle with them too much). Spray the top of lamb chops with olive oil, and turn them over. Turn the heat down to medium and grill another 3 minutes. Then, place the fatty edge of the lamb chop on the grill, so they are sitting upright, on their side, leaning them up against each other. Cover and cook another 2 minutes or so, to melt off that fatty layer. (These are delicious served medium, but feel free to cook through on lower heat if that is your preference.) Remove from grill, cover with foil until ready to serve.
Mix the yogurt with the harissa paste, starting conservatively, adding more to taste. Each Harissa paste has different levels of heat. Chef Sylvia Fountaine likes to a whisk in a teaspoon of smoked paprika to bump up the smoky flavor – up to you.
To serve, cut the grilled veggies into bite-size pieces, and place them on a platter. Top with the grilled lamb chops. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Serve the Harissa yogurt on the side or spoon a little on each chop.
Serve with a cooked grain like quinoa, basmati rice or even couscous.

Notes: If serving with a cooked grain, make sure to season it. ( Olive Oil, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and fresh parsley is nice.) You could serve it on the same platter, underneath the veggies and lamb, or serve it on the side.

JUNE WINE CLUB:

Duca Carlo Guarini
Burdi Primitivo Rosso IGT Puglia
Scorrano, Italy

BOLD WINE STYLE

The Burdi Primitivo IGT Puglia Rosso wine is an every day wine, made from organic certified grapes. It is deep ruby red in color, and on the palate it is fruity and soft. This wine is ideal with any kind of food, especially pasta, grilled or roasted meat, and seasoned cheese.

Varietal: 100% Primitivo

Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume

Description: IGT Red Puglia
Yield: 100,000 kg. per hectare

Vinification: Five Days maceration with skins, temperature controlled fermentation

ABOUT DUCA CARLO GUARINI:

The Guarini family has lived in Puglia since 1040, when their ancestors moved from Normandy, arriving in Terra d’Otranto. In 1114, Accardo Guarini, Count of Valesio, founded his vineyard overlooking the Adriatic sea in the Pìutri estate. Since then, the Guarini family continues to take care of the same vineyards, maintaining the traditions founded many centuries ago. Learn more here.

Join 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 >

Winery Spotlight Series: June 16 Marietta Cellars

Posted on May 17, 2021 by mcginnessalex

Wine Tasting Event

Marietta Cellars Sonoma County, California

Wednesday, June 16, 2021 6:00pm CST / 7:00pm EST

Join us for a wine tasting event, featuring Marietta Cellars from Sonoma County, California, with guest speaker Scot Bilbro on Zoom. Owner and Winemaker, Scot Bilbro will be guiding us through a tasting of seven of his Marietta Cellars wines:

Old Vine Riesling
Old Vine Rosé
Old Vine Red Lot 71
Román Zinfandel
Armé Cabernet Sauvignon
Christo Red Blend
Gibson Block Syrah

About Marietta Cellars:

Marietta Cellars is a family owned winery in Sonoma County. Chris Bilbro (pictured left) with winemaking roots dating back three generations, founded Marietta Cellars in 1978. Scot Bilbro (pictured right) is now the second generation Winemaker and Owner of Marietta Cellars. Applying his Viticulture and Enology training from UC Davis, Scot keeps yeast happy, manages oxygen’s interaction with the wine, and dials in the temperature range of a fermentation…but the real magic happens in the quiet moments. Hiking the vineyard rows as the fog burns off; checking grapes in the sweltering sun; in the cellar at the end of the night during harvest checking tank temperatures with the palm of his hand. He continues to lead a team that performs magic by transforming hard work, attention to detail, a blessed climate, and exceptional land into beautiful, modern wines. Learn more >

About Scot Bilbro – Owner and Winemaker:

Scot Bilbro grew up admiring his father’s ability to create magic – whether it was with wine, food, or a simple game to entertain Scot and his brothers. Scot learned the ins and the outs of the family’s wine business, and after graduating from UC Davis, decided to return to the family winery to create magic of his own. Scot was uncertain and tentative, but his father gave him the confidence to create beautiful wines of his own. This second-generation winery continues to transform hard work, a blessed climate, special pieces of land, and belief into beautiful liquid expressions of family and place. Learn more here.