Just because it’s Saturday night and the grill is hot, there’s no need to pour the red wine. Certainly, rib eye steaks, beef tenderloin and smoked [fill in the blank] are go-to barbecue favorites with a glass of Cabernet, Malbec or Zinfandel, but there’s a time when the white wine lover needs a little satisfaction, too. Plenty of foods, perfect for sizzling on that grill, taste even better with a glass of exceptional white wine. So, keep those reds in a comfortable place for another time…
Hearst Three Sisters White Cuvée 2018 (purchased for $25)
This mouthwatering blend of Rhône varieties, Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Roussanne, Marsanne and Clairette Blanc, is just what’s needed on a warm evening. From Hearst Ranch Winery in Paso Robles, the wine was beautifully aromatic and palate-pleasing with intense notes of florals, juicy orchard fruit and minerality lifted by brilliant acidity and ending with a lip-smacking finish. Enjoy a glass or two of this delightful cuvée with spicy Grilled Veggie Burgers.
Why did this wine and food pairing work? The medium bodied cuvée boasts vibrant acidity and lively flavors that balanced the taste and texture of tofu and black beans along with the heat of the chili in the veggie burgers.
Fresh and restrained with notes of bright citrus, green apples, apricot, snappy lemon zest and green grass on both nose and palate, this beauty from Long Meadow Ranch’s Napa Valley vineyards was as elegant as it gets. Others think so, too – it’s the brand’s #1 wine in case production. Pair your sips with oysters on the half shell or fresh crab appetizers, then grill Tuna Steaks with Mango Salsa for a delicious departure from that rib eye.
Why did this wine and food pairing work? The moderately light body and herbaceous, fruit notes of the wine matched the texture of the grilled tuna and the snappy citrus elements of the mango salsa.
Just wow! On the nose, juicy pears, green grass, wet straw, dried apricot, white pepper and minerality burst from the glass. The medium bodied palate, ever so balanced, offered brisk acidity and flavors of lemon, ripe apples and lemon peel that led to a lingering finish. Enjoy this easy drinking wine with a grilled romaine salad then Lemon Garlic Shrimp Kabobs for a perfect evening.
Why did this wine and food pairing work? Light in body, crisp and fruity in texture and flavor, the Pinot Gris met the snappy acidity and zest of the lemon and garlic with the shrimp.
As soon as I opened the bottle, I knew that this Chardonnay would be memorable – I was right. Aromas of tropical fruit such as pineapple, bananas and lemon peel, ripe citrus, hint of butterscotch, vanilla spice, orange blossoms and breezy salinity were enticing. On the rich and precise palate, moderate acidity lifted notes of banana chips, nectarines, toasted almonds, florals, minerality and the slightest hint of oak. The lush finish lingered. Although I could have grilled a few crabcakes (next time!), I chose a recipe for Grilled Cornish Hen, a classic pairing with Chardonnay.
Why did this wine and food pairing work? The medium-bodied Olivet Lane Chardonnay offered a round, creamy mouthfeel and flavorful elements that complemented the succulent and savory chicken with notes of cloves and ginger.
I expect only the best from this iconic winery in St. Helena and this dry Riesling delivers just that. Lively aromas of white peach flesh, white flowers, lemon zest, freshly-cut pineapple and lime were clean and sharp. On the palate, dry and creamy with vibrant acidity, flavors of white pepper, juicy kiwi, lime and herbs paved the path to a luscious and lasting finish. And sipped with an assortment of grilled vegetables for a late afternoon delight? Life just gets better and better.
Why did this wine and food pairing work? When grilled, the flavors of vegetables were enhanced and offered smoky characteristics. This bright and lively wine with plenty of acidity was a brilliant counterpoint to those notes.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
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