Summer to Fall Red Wines and Food Pairings
We’ve been soaking up the summer with crisp whites and refreshing Rosés, but as the days shorten and the evenings turn cooler, it’s the perfect time to transition back to our favorite red wines. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night at home, red wine is likely on your mind. In celebration of Red Wine Day, let's dive into three exceptional reds - One Acre Cabernet Sauvignon, Old Lodge Proprietary Red Blend, and Acre Merlot. Plus, we’ll share what vintner Talley Henry is pairing with each of these bold choices.
1. For that Upcoming Special Occasion!
Begin your celebration with a standout wine: the 2018 One Acre Porchview Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine captivates from from the first sip with it’s elegant complexity offering aromas of graphite, black raspberry, and black currant. The palate is soft and textured, with silky layers of dark berries, baking spices, black tea, wrapped in lush tannins. The balanced and nuanced finish makes it a timeless, classic choice for any special occasion.
Food Pairing: Herb-Crusted Prime Rib
Pair this Cabernet with a succulent, herb-crusted prime rib for a perfect match. The wine's tannins beautifully balance the richness of the beef, while the herbal crust enhances the earthy undertones of the Cabernet. Serve alongside roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and potatoes for a comforting yet refined meal.
Cooking Tip: Marinate the prime rib with a blend of rosemary, thyme, garlic, and olive oil before roasting to perfection. Allow it to rest before slicing to lock in all those flavorful juices.
2. For an elevated Meatless Monday
The 2019 Acre Merlot is rich and supple, with notes of black fruit, 60% dark chocolate, black licorice, and baking spice. Lush and luxurious in the mouth, with flavors of black cherry, a hint of cocoa and subtle vanilla, which lead to a smooth and lingering finish. It’s a warm hug and comfort in a glass. Even if you think you’re not a Merlot fan (anyone remember Sideways?), we’re confident this bottle will change your mind.
Food Pairing: Mushroom Risotto
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this comforting and satisfying combination. In just 30 minutes you can have a dish the whole family will love. The fruit forward profile of the Merlot perfectly complements the umami richness of the mushrooms, while its soft tannins enhance the the risotto’s creamy texture. The earthy flavors of the dish highlight the wine’s subtle complexities for a truly harmonious pairing.
Cooking Tip: Use a mix of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, and porcini for varied textures and flavors. Stir the risotto slowly, adding warm broth gradually to achieve the perfect creamy consistency. Finish with a drizzle of truffle oil for an extra touch of indulgence.
3. Dinner Party Smash Hit!
Planning to host a group of people? We’ve got the perfect wine for you. The 2020 Old Lodge Proprietary Red Blend is a crowd pleaser that everyone will enjoy. At just $48 a bottle, it’s a great option for frequent entertaining! Lush and complex, with layers of dark cherry, boysenberry, cassis, orange spice box, leather, and dark chocolate that blend seamlessly into the soft tannins on the lengthy, layered finish. Stock up on a case, send out the invites and get ready to entertain in style this Fall!
Food Pairing: Braised Short Ribs
Impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen with slow-cooked braised short ribs. The wine's fruit-forward notes and subtle spice perfectly complement the savory, melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of the ribs. Pair it with creamy sour cream chive mashed potatoes or teleme cheese polenta to soak up all the rich, flavorful sauce, and you’ve got a dish that will wow your dinner party.
Cooking Tip: Sear the short ribs until golden brown, then braise them slowly with red wine, beef broth, onions, carrots, and a bouquet garni of fresh thyme, rosemary, oregano, garlic, and bay leaves until they are tender and fragrant. The long, slow cooking process will ensure the meat will be fall-off-the-bone tender, infused with all the delicious flavors of the braising liquid.
What Are You Waiting For?
As summer winds down, there’s plenty to anticipate this Fall! Light a fire, pour yourself a glass, and savor the tastes and flavors of the new season. Cheers!