Perhaps you’ve already heard of Paul Cullen – a musician, creative chef and trained sommelier. Perhaps you know him as a bass player for the iconic rock band Bad Company or have heard him in concert. Maybe you’ve experienced a memorable in-home dining event (like me!) at which Paul arrives at your home and cooks a brilliant Italian dinner for you and your guests. Then again, maybe you’re still thinking about your travels to Italy and Spain or on cruises hosted by Paul and his wife, Bonnie. And oh, yeah. He has his own private wine label, too.
Paul Cullen, Bass Guitarist with Bad Company
As you can imagine, it was an unbelievable experience to play with an iconic Rock Band that I grew up listening to. In fact, in 1976 I saw them in live in Buffalo. If my friend would have said “You are going to play with those guys one day” I would have said, “Are you high” – which we probably were. It was a rollercoaster ride for sure. Rockin’ in front of 4,000 to 55,000 fans per night, staying in Ritz Carlton Hotels, riding in million-dollar tour buses and making some serious cash!! As equally as it was amazing, it was devastating when it ended. Luckily, I made it through the tough times and somehow (by hard work) reinvented myself. I am blessed to have an amazing life with my lovely wife Bonnie and our whippets Brunello & Jaco. Paul Cullen
In the following video, check out Paul on the left with the red bass guitar.
Paul Cullen, Chef and Sommelier
Having met through a mutual friend, I asked Paul to come to my home for one his infamous dining experiences. Sure enough, the next time Paul was in Chicago, he took over my kitchen with all things food and wine… and music. His concept is brilliant. Not only will he prepare a delicious, traditional Italian meal using fresh ingredients accompanied by plenty of wines for pairing, Paul entertains hosts and guests with a 45 minute concert of his original compositions and Bad Company hits. Weeks prior to our dinner, Paul and I discussed the menu that included roasted asparagus wrapped in speck, Tuscan chicken liver pate with capers, anchovies, garlic, shallots sage and white wine, hearty Tuscan Bean Crostini, savory risotto from scratch, homemade ravioli with kale pesto. Truth be told, I still have friends who remind me of that special night and since, Paul and I remain friends and in touch with each others’ happenings.
Paul Cullen Wines
If his chef and musician passions aren’t enough, Paul has his own wine label (gorgeous artwork on each bottle, by the way) and I was fortunate to have been sent three wines (as samples). Affordable and food friendly, everyone with whom I shared the wines were enamored.
Paul Cullen Wines Arneis DOCG 2021 ($20) from Piemonte was a snappy white wine that I served chilled but not too cold in order to maintain the beautiful profile. Florals, lemon zest, citrus and herbs were enticing aromas and on the tart, dry palate, tropical fruit, raw almonds, pears and herbs were luscious. Enjoy this with sushi, a pear gorgonzola salad or grilled fish for a taste sensation.
A clear choice for anytime sipping is Paul Cullen Wines Rockin’ Rose DOC 2021 ($18), a blend of Nebbiolo, Barbera and Dolcetto cultivated in Piemonte. Tart with vibrant acidity, aromas and flavors of fresh watermelon, roses, peonies, Italian herbs, and ripe pink peaches were mouthwatering with cheeses and fresh fruit on a recent warm spring day.
Easy drinking and perfect with food, Paul Cullen Wines Barbera d’Asti DOCG 2021 ($18) from Piemonte burst with aromas of cherries, earth, thyme and oregano. On the palate, soft tannins and moderate acidity framed spice, dark fruit, crushed raspberries and chocolate. Your pasta dish will taste even better with sips of this well crafted wine.
Other wines in the portfolio include Rosso di Toscana, a Sangiovese from Montalcino, and Lambrusco di Emilia, a dry fizzy red wine from Emilia Romagna. Coming soon are Prosecco di Treviso and Moscato d’Asti – two more of my favorites. Wines can be shipped to 26 states and if you live in Delaware or Maryland, Paul’s wines are available in selected wine shops and restaurants. Click here for more.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
For more Grape Experiences and a free infographic “4 Keys to a Stellar Wine Pick” click here.
