Tag Archives: winestyles

Innocent Bystander Shiraz Pairing Recipe

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Marinated Sirloin with Gorgonzola Mashers

mashersINGREDIENTS:
• 1 to 1½ lb. sirloin steak sliced ¾ inch thick
• ½ cup soy sauce
• 2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
• 2 finely chopped garlic cloves
• ¼ cup red wine (preferably Shiraz/ Syrah)
• 2 Tbsp. cracked black pepper

GORGONZOLA MASHERS:
• 3 to 4 large Russet potatoes
• 4 cloves sliced fresh garlic
• ¼ cup butter or margarine
• ½ cup milk
• 1/3 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
• 2 tsp. Salt
• 2 tsp. Cracked pepper

DIRECTIONS:

Marinated Sirloin:
Combine marinade ingredients with sliced steak in large sealable plastic bag. Seal and refrigerate at least 1 hour. Preferably overnight. Remove steak from marinade and discard remaining sauce. Broil 3 to 5 minutes per side until desired doneness.

Gorgonzola Mashers:
Slice potatoes into ½ inch wedges, leaving skins on. In a large pot combine 2 quarts water, sliced garlic, and sliced potatoes, boiling on high for 25 minutes. Strain water and add butter and milk. Mash with a potato masher until milk and butter are incorporated and mixture has a slightly chunky texture. Add salt, pepper, and Gorgonzola, stirring with a wooden spoon until incorporated. Serve with mixed baby greens and balsamic vinaigrette. Recipe compliments of Gallo.com

InnocentBystander_ShirazInnocent BystanderBold_sticker
Shiraz
Yarra Valley, Australia

Winemaking is carried out in the Sexton’s artisanal winery, a facility designed for hand-crafting small, individual batches of wine. Taking advantage of the broad palate of flavors available to them, the Innocent Bystander team uses a combination of winemaking skill and intuition to blend a consistent range of wines offering unique personality and definitive regional expression. Beyond the pristine fruit of the Yarra Valley, Phil Sexton discovered numerous Central Victorian vineyards that inspired the Innocent Bystander range. The fruit for this vintage of Shiraz comes from the Forest Hut Vinyeard in the Pyrenees and Yarra Valley’s Miller, Tarraford and Sexton Vineyards.

Winemaker: Phil Sexton
Appellation: Yarra Valley, Australia
Varietal Blend:  99% Syrah, 1% Viognier
Analysis: 13.7% alc/vol
Critical Acclaim: 89 pts Stephen Tanzers Int’l Wine Cellar
87 pts Wine Spectator

Phil B&W“Aromas of five spice, campari, orange zest and juniper berries are supported by flavors of wild blackberries and raspberries and dark chocolate notes. The firm, bright tannins and brooding texture balance and carry the fruit through a long, savory finish.” – Phil Sexton, winemaker

The Carnelian Project: Pairing Recipe

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Braised Beef Ribs with Caramelized Sauce
Braised_Beef_small

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 to 4 pounds beef ribs cut into individual ribs
• 1 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 tsp dry mustard
• 4 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 2 Tbsp molasses
• 1 tsp salt

DIRECTIONS:

Heat ribs and 2 cloves of garlic in large, heavy pot; with enough water to cover. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cover. Let simmer 1 hour, remove from heat, and drain.

Mix ketchup, vinegar, mustard, 2 cloves chopped garlic, molasses, and salt in a small saucepan; heat to boil.  Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently.  Grill braised ribs 10 to 12 minutes, turning and brushing with sauce until glazed.

AWD_Carn_Project_smallThe Carnelian Project
mellow Red Blend
Paso Robles, CA

“Vast hues on an expansive terrain of ochres and earthy reds, with a nose of perfume and crushed rose petal oil surrounding sweet spices. Fresh strawberries on the palate with a suggestion of oak. Dark cherry fruits linger across taste buds.” – Douglas Danielak, winemaker

Winemaker: Douglas Danielak
Appellation: Paso Robles, CAwinemaker-Douglas
Varietal Blend:  34% Syrah, 31% Mourvedre, 18% Grenache, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 1% Counoise
Analysis: 14.5% alc/vol

Dobbes Family Estate Viognier Pairing Recipe

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Stir Fried Pork with Ginger

Pork_Ginger_stirfry_smallINGREDIENTS:

• 1/4 cup chicken stock or low-sodium broth
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon Asian fish sauce
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 Thai chiles or 2 jalapeños, minced
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 3/4 pounds pork tenderloin, sliced crosswise 1/8 inch thick
• 1 pound Asian eggplants, cut into 1-inch dice
• 1 cup coarsely chopped basil
• 1 kaffir lime leaf, very thinly sliced, or 1 teaspoon finely grated lime zest
• Lime wedges, for serving

DIRECTIONS:

Heat a large wok or skillet over moderately high heat for 5 minutes. In a small bowl, mix the stock with the oyster and fish sauces. Add the oil to the wok and swirl to coat. Add the chiles, garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds. Add the pork and stir-fry for 3 minutes. Add the eggplant and stir-fry until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the sauce mixture.

Remove from the heat and stir in the basil and lime leaf. Transfer to plates and serve with lime wedges. Serve with white rice or rice noodles.

DFE_Viognier_NV_smallDobbes
Family Estate Viognier
Rogue Valley, Oregon

Silky_Sticker“Bright gold in color, the nose reveals aromas of lychee and ripe white peaches. The characters are very clean and true to the varietal. This is a medium-bodied wine with silky fruits and balanced acid. On the palate, pronounced flavors of peach cobbler are balanced by acidity that seems to sustain the finish for some time.” – Joe Dobbes, winemaker

Winemaker: Joe Dobbes
Appellation: Rogue Valley, OR
Varietal Blend:  100% Viognier
Analysis: 13.5% alc/vol

Cambridge Meritage Pairing Recipe

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Cheese & Tomato Gallette

INGREDIENTS:CheeseandTomatoGallette

• 1 pack Chevre goat cheese
• 6 tablespoons heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 square (9×9 inch) frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 1 large tomato, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 3/4 teaspoon lemon pepper

DIRECTIONS:

In a food processor, combine together cheese, cream, and butter. Place puff pastry on floured surface, cut off corners to form a circle. Roll out dough into a 12-inch circle. Spread cheese mixture leaving a 2-inch border of pastry around the edge.  Lay tomato over cheese, sprinkle with thyme and Lemon Pepper. Fold dough edge over toppings, crimping edge to form circular shape. Bake in preheated 375°F oven until pastry is lightly browned, about 35 to 40 minutes. Serve warm, sliced in wedges.

AWD_Cam_Meritage_smallCambridge
Meritage
Napa Valley, CA

Bold_sticker“Hints of juicy candied cherry, scraped vanilla bean pod and black raspberry on the nose. A blend of American and French oak adds spicy notes while raspberry, chocolate and pomegranate splash across the palate. ” – Douglas Danielak, winemaker.

Winemaker: Douglas Danielak
Appellation: Napa Valley, CA
Varietal Blend:  87% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, 1% Cabernet Sauvignon
Analysis: 13.8% alc/vol

ONEHOPE

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March 2014:
ONEHOPE Portfolio Tasting Event

Please join us to taste amazing wines from ONEHOPE.  Every bottle of their award-winning wine makes an impact, 50% of their profits are donated to great causes!

Contact your local WineStyles to RSVP,
limited seating available!OneHope_Bottles

ONEHOPE is a social enterprise that integrates causes into products and services to make a social impact.  ONEHOPE has quickly become one of the most recognizable cause brands due to the success of their cornerstone product, ONEHOPE Wine.  Produced in partnership with Rob Mondavi, Jr., their award-winning portfolio makes an impact with every bottle sold by donating HALF of the profits to partner causes.

Reserve your Seat Early!

Our national tasting event in March will sell out fast!

RSVP Early!

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ThomasBarton_winesThomas Barton Portfolio Tasting Event

Please join us to taste the epitome of CLASSIC BORDEAUX French wines, powerful, fruity and elegantly oaked, the modern equivalent of the great wines of the 18th century, those that Thomas Barton might have enjoyed and chosen himself.

Contact your local WineStyles to RSVP,
limited seating available!

THOMAS BARTON: The Spirit of Wine

Thomas-BartonThis range of wines is the ultimate homage to Thomas Barton, who traveled to Bordeaux from Ireland in 1725.  He quickly became the most important wine merchant in Bordeaux having built a solid reputation among prestigious customers all over Europe.  The spirit of Thomas Barton has been perpetuated in this unique and prestigious range of carefully selected wines from the heart of the Bordeaux region’s greatest appellations.  These wines are the epitome of classic Bordeaux; rich, fruity and elegantly oaked, the modern equivalent of the great wines of the 18th century, those that Thomas Barton might have enjoyed and chosen himself.

BartonBottles

Everything starts out in a the vineyard, with a drastic selection of the best terroirs and strict vine-growing rules in order to guarantee high quality fruit.  Yields are low, sorting rigorous, and the wines are traditionally fermented before aging in oak barrels to enhance each terroir’s authenticity.

The Renaissance of Bordeaux Wines:  All these efforts and attention are richly rewarded by the quality and generosity of Thomas Barton Réserve wines, whose powerful, opulent style and excellent aging potential represent the quintessence of the finest wines of Bordeaux.

A Renewed Elegance: The Thomas Barton range’s packaging also reflects the founder’s personality and his times: a heavy 18th century-style Bordeaux bottle with a short colored capsule.  The label combines the sobriety of Thomas Barton’s character and the unique, classic elegance of the 18th century.

Reserve your Seat Early!

Our national tasting event in January will sell out fast!
Contact your participating WineStyles for local details and reservations!

Zingy Turkey Soup

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Perfect pairing for leftover Thanksgiving turkey and Les Florieres Pinot Noir

112137255INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 3 garlic cloves, diced
• 2 large bay leaves
• 2 cups diced roasted turkey
• 1 cup white rice
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 quart chicken broth
• Grated zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS:

In a large pot, stir together olive oil, onion, celery, carrots and garlic and cook for 4 to 5 minutes.  Add remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 3 minutes.  Remove the bay leaves and serve.  Makes 8 servings.  Recipe courtesy of Italia Magazine.

WC_Nov_2013_Label_PinotNoirLes Florieres
Pinot Noir
Burgundy, France

mellow

This Pinot Noir displays shiny ruby red colors with a sense of clarity. Subtle aromas of red and black fruits (raspberry & black current) with notes of warm spices. Wine is medium bodied with notes of wild strawberries and liquorice and finishes with a bright fresh acidity.

Winemaker: Gregoire Pissot
Appellation: Maconnais, Burgundy, France
Varietal:  100% Pinot Noir
Analysis: 12.5% alc/vol
Critical Acclaim: Reviewed & approved by Doug Frost, Master Sommelier and Master of Wine

Reserve Your Seat Early!

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Caymus Vineyards Portfolio Tasting Event

portfolio

Call your participating WineStyles to RSVP, limited seating available!

Please join us to taste amazing wines from Caymus Vineyards, Napa Valley California.  The Wagners produced their first vintage in 1972, consisting of 240 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon. Since then, Caymus has focused their efforts in the production of quality Cabernet Sauvignon. Today’s production is 65,000 cases and still family owned.

CAYMUS VINEYARDS:
In 1971 Charles F. (Charlie) Wagner and his wife Lorna Belle Glos Wagner asked their son Charles J. (Chuck) Wagner, who had just graduated from high school, if he would be interested in joining them in starting up a winery. If Chuck declined the offer, Charlie and Lorna were planning to sell out of their ranch in Napa Valley and move to Australia. Chuck accepted his parents’ offer to launch the winery, Caymus Vineyards. The Wagners took the name Caymus from the Mexican land grant known as Rancho Caymus, given to George Yount in 1836, which encompassed what eventually became the town of Rutherford and much of the surrounding area.

portfolioCaymus Vineyards remains 100% family-owned by the Wagners. Charlie, Lorna Belle, and Chuck worked together as a remarkable team for over 30 years building Caymus Cabernet. Today, Chuck, his two sons, Charlie and Joe, and one daughter, Jenny, have joined the family team. Farming grapes remain the priority with the family, farming about 350 acres of choice Napa Valley land.

Reserve your Seat Early!

Our national tasting event in November will sell out fast!
Contact your participating WineStyles for local details and reservations!

Fontanafredda Food Pairing

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177409170Veal Tonnato

As the centerpiece of an elegant buffet table this classic Piedmontese dish will never fail to impress.

INGREDIENTS:
• 2 1/2 lbs veal tenderloin
• 1 celery stalk
• 1 carrot peeled
• 1 medium onion quartered
• 4 sprigs parsley
• 1 bay leaf

SAUCE:
• 1 seven oz can tuna packed in oil
• 6 anchovy fillets
• 3 Tbs capers, drained if in vinegar
• 3 Tbs lemon juice
• 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise

DIRECTIONS:

Place veal, celery, carrot, onion, parsley and bay leaf in a large pot and add water to cover. Then remove veal and set aside. Cover pot, bring contents to boil; then add veal. When water returns to a boil, cover pot, reduce heat and simmer gently for 1 1/2 hours. Remove from heat and leave meat to cool in its own broth.

Drain tuna and place in food processor with anchovies, capers and lemon juice. Blend to a smooth, creamy consistency. Remove mixture from processor and fold in
mayonnaise. Taste for salt.

When veal is cold, retrieve from broth and cut evenly into thin slices. Smear the bottom of a serving platter with some of the tuna sauce. Spread over it a layer of the veal slices and sauce until veal is used up. Leave enough sauce to blanket final layer.

Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours. Before serving, bring to room temperature, smooth off top with spatula and garnish with some or all
suggested garnish ingredients (thin slices of lemon, sprigs of fresh parsley or pitted black olives cut into wedges).  Serves 8 , prepare a day ahead of serving.

Fontanafredda_BarberaFontanafredda Briccotondo Barbera
FruityPiedmont DOC, Italy

The Briccotondo Barbera has sweet, soft tannins that come together in a closely-woven texture that combines with great fruit character and crisp freshness, culminating in a long, tasty finish. A perfect match for starters, cured meats and a variety of fresh and mature cheeses.

Winemaker: Danilo Drocco
Appellation: Piedmont DOC, Italy
Varietal:  100% Barbera
Analysis: 13.5% alc/vol

Oktoberfest Beer Picks

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Fall is in the air and with the change of season brings new combinations of entertaining options, seasonal ingredients and fall flavor combinations.  As the summer heat begins to recede into cooler fall temperatures, the cooler weather generally allows our taste preferences to transition into more EARTHY craft beers that highlight the seasonal fall flavors.  Here’s a few picks for pairing with grilled kielbasa, bratwurst or pork chops:

AutumnBeerPicks

Smashed_PumpkinShipyard Brewing Co. Smashed Pumpkin (Maine)

Smashed_Pumpkin_labelA big-bodied beer with aromas of pumpkin and nutmeg. The Pale Ale, Wheat and Light Munich malts combine with the natural tannin in pumpkin and the delicate spiciness of hops to balance the sweetness of fruit.

Pumpkinhead_AleShipyard Brewing Co. Pumpkinhead Ale (Maine)

Pumpkinhead_Ale_labelA crisp and refreshing wheat ale with delightful aromatics and subtle spiced flavor.

Ayinger Oktober Fest-Märzen (Germany)

Ayinger_OktoberAyinger is one of Germany’s most famous and historic brewery’s. The  Oktober Fest Märzen has a deep golden color tinted with amber. It is lightly sweet with a malty nose balanced with floral hops. Its medium to big body and alcohol is not overpowering.

WeihenstepFestbierhan Festbier (Germany)Weihenstephan_label

A full rich bodied, hoppy, seasonal lager. Especially brewed for the Festbier season. This beer truly represents the Bavarian way of celebrating. Deep gold color, great mouthfeel and lots of flavor. Prost!