Several of my friends wouldn’t dream of having a glass of wine with lunch. Can you believe it? Their usual remarks include “If I drink wine in the middle of the day, I’ll be tired” or “I’m going back to work and won’t be able to focus if I have a glass” Yes, some of those phrases are, unfortunately, true. However, I DO have friends who love a nice glass of wine whenever we go to a terrific restaurant or lunch on my (or their) back porch. Whether we’re drinking a comfortable favorite or trying something new, it’s fun to experiment with wines that complement a variety of middle-of-the-day dishes. Go for it!
Just recently, I delved into my sample bounty and found five wines that would be delightful, light pairings with anything on your luncheon menu. The bonus is that each represents an incredible price given the quality you’ll love. Enjoy!
Domaine Fourrey Premier Cru 2013 (sample) – This beautiful Chablis is a Chardonnay, as are all wines from Chablis, France, one of my favorite regions in the world. Stunning aromas of pear, stone fruit, citrus, and herbs led to a broad, complex, and balanced wine on the palate. Deep, rich honey notes, along with more fresh fruit flavors, were mesmerizing. With snappy acidity and a long finish, choose this wine to pair with a crab salad, oysters on the half shell, or ham and goat cheese sandwich on a croissant. Cost is $26.
Casillero del Diablo Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2015 (
sample) – On the nose, intense notes of bright, juicy citrus, grapefruit, stone fruit, such as fleshy peaches, were scintillating. Tropical fruit flavors of pineapple, touch of grapefruit with high acidity and a satisfying finish were just lovely. Choose ceviche, crab cakes, seafood, arugula salad with warm honey vinaigrette, chicken salad, or a roasted beet salad for lunch. And pour yourself a nice glass of this Sauvignon Blanc from Chile. Cost is $11.
Stoller Family Estate Dundee Hills Pinot Noir Rosé 2015 (
sample) – Of course, you must have a rosé with lunch! From Oregon, this beautiful example boasts aromas of fresh, lip smacking red grapefruit, strawberries, raspberries, and white flowers. On the palate, I found tart, juicy watermelon, high acidity, minerality, and a long, fruit forward finish. Try a glass of this deliciousness with a warm quiche, turkey wrap, grilled fish, chicken Caesar salad, or your favorite burger…this rosé will shine! Cost is $25.
Pike Road Pinot Noir 2014 (
sample) – This Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley in Oregon is an unbeatable value. Beautiful aromas of sweet spice, red fruit and purple flowers were intense. Easy drinking and elegant, this Pinot Noir opened up dramatically with time. On the palate, more spice, subtle notes of earth, and red fruit were braided with medium tannins and food friendly acidity. Consider complementing a lunch of hard cheeses and crusty baguette, savory risotto with tomatoes, grilled salmon, pizza, or roasted vegetable platter with the Pike Road Pinot Noir. Cost is $19.
Banfi Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2012 (
sample) – It’s time for your favorite pizza! Or Italian salad! Or the best grilled cheese sandwich you can find! And what better pairing than this Chianti Classico from Tuscany? Delightful aromas of black cherry and vanilla were a lovely introduction to this wine. Smooth and balanced from beginning to end, I found cocoa, red fruit, more cherries, and vanilla along with mouthwatering acidity and gentle, yet present tannins. Enjoy a glass or two for the lunch you won’t want to end. Cost is $18.
Although no permission is needed, you have mine. Pour yourself a glass of wine with lunch!
Cheers! ~ Cindy
Kendra Walker
Cindy Rynning