Embrace the winter season by combining comforting warmth with delicious flavors. On these chilly nights, explore the simple yet delightful pairing of hearty, warm meals with well-chosen wines. Imagine simmering stews, rich soups, and roasted meats – each paired with the robust and nuanced profiles of California and Oregon Wines.
Wild Mushroom Soup with Parmesan Croutons
This hearty earthy, woodsy, robust soup is a meal in itself. The blend of various wild mushrooms and the added crunch of Parmesan croutons creates a texture and flavor profile that’s simply irresistible. A glass of California Merlot or Pinot Noir complements the soup, bringing out its rich and hearty character.
Turkey Pot Pie
Indulge in the heartwarming embrace of a classic comfort dish elevated to perfection – the Turkey Pot Pie. This wholesome dish weaves together tender morsels of roasted turkey, vibrant mixed vegetables, and a velvety sauce, all nestled beneath a flaky golden crust. Enjoy it with a California Chardonnay or Pinot Noir to truly savor its delightful flavors. With each bite, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors and textures that evoke memories of home-cooked meals and cozy gatherings.
Braised Pork Shoulder with Butternut Squash and Prunes
This dish, featuring succulent pork shoulder melded with the sweetness of butternut squash and prunes, is a winter masterpiece. The slow braising method brings out deep, complex flavors, making it ideal for cold evenings. A California Wine, like Pinot Noir or Sangiovese, pairs nicely with this hearty dish and creates a delightful symphony of tastes, enhancing the dish’s rich flavors.
Grilled Radicchio and Cannellini Bean Salad
For a lighter, but equally satisfying option, try this grilled radicchio and cannellini bean salad. The slightly bitter nature of the Radicchio is unique to this salad. Mixed together with cannellini beans and tomatoes, the striking aroma of this decorative salad is balanced exceptionally well. Often redolent of apples, lemons, peaches or tropical fruits, Oregon Chardonnay comes with a fantastic balanced acidity that goes well with this aromatic salad.
Grilled Three Cheese Sandwiches with Mustard Aioli
Elevate your comfort food game with these gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, featuring a blend of rich cheeses and a tangy mustard aioli. A glass of California Wine, like Zinfandel or Sauvignon Blanc, is the perfect accompaniment, creating a cozy and indulgent meal.
Hearty Beef Ramen
Combine the comfort of ramen with the indulgence of premium beef, creating a meal that will warm from within. A California rosé can offer a unique and refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty flavors of this dish. While not a traditional pairing, the acidity in the rosé can help cut through the richness of the dish, while the red fruit flavors can add a touch of brightness to each bite.
