Perfect Pairings
Chardonnay & Charcuterie
Creating a fall-inspired charcuterie board to pair with Three Degrees’ Colonnades Chardonnay is a wonderful way to embrace the flavors of the season. Here are some fall ingredients and components you can include:
- Cured Meats: Choose a selection of cured meats like prosciutto, chorizo, and salami. Their savory, salty profiles pair well with Chardonnay’s fruity and slightly oaky notes.
- Artisanal Cheeses: Opt for a variety of cheeses, including creamy Brie, smoked Gouda, and sharp cheddar. These cheeses provide diverse textures and flavors that complement the wine’s richness.
- Fresh Fruits: Incorporate seasonal fruits like crisp apples, juicy pears, and seedless grapes. These fruits add a touch of sweetness and freshness to balance the charcuterie’s saltiness.
- Nuts: Roasted nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, bring a satisfying crunch and nutty depth to the board, enhancing the Chardonnay’s complexity.
- Fig or Apricot Preserves: Offer sweet preserves or compotes made from figs or apricots to provide a fruity contrast that pairs beautifully with Chardonnay’s melon and pear notes.
- Crackers and Bread: Include an assortment of crackers and slices of rustic bread to provide a canvas for your charcuterie components. You can choose varieties like baguette, whole-grain, or gluten-free options to cater to different preferences.
- Pickles and Olives: Add a touch of brininess and acidity with pickled vegetables and a variety of olives. They offer a tangy contrast to the wine’s fruity flavors.
- Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey over the cheeses or figs adds a delightful sweetness that complements Chardonnay’s profile.
- Herbs and Fresh Greenery: Garnish your board with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and consider adding some edible flowers or fall leaves for a visually appealing touch.
- Optional Extras: For an extra touch of fall, you can include seasonal elements like roasted pumpkin or butternut squash slices, candied pecans, or even a small dish of caramelized onions.
The key to a successful charcuterie board is variety and balance. Arrange these fall-inspired ingredients thoughtfully on a wooden board or platter, keeping aesthetics in mind. Don’t forget to serve your Chardonnay slightly chilled to around 50-55°F to enhance the tasting experience. Enjoy your fall-themed charcuterie board paired with Colonnades or Faithful—the perfect happy hour duo to share with your best Sigma friend.
Recommended Wines:
Sip & Savor—Red Wine Revelry
Ever Forward, a red wine blend with spicy plum and black cherry notes, tobacco, cinnamon, floral, camphor, hints of currant, dark chocolate, roasted beets, and a persistent finish is a complex and intriguing wine that offers various flavor profiles. To complement these characteristics, consider the following food pairings:
- Braised Short Ribs: The richness of braised short ribs pairs well with the wine’s dark fruit, tobacco, and spicy notes. The slow cooking process tenderizes the meat and allows it to absorb the wine’s flavors.
- Mole Poblano: Mole poblano, a Mexican sauce made with chocolate, chilies, and spices, harmonizes with the wine’s dark chocolate and spice elements. Serve it over chicken or pork for a flavorful combination.
- Lamb Shank with Mint Gremolata: The floral and currant hints in the wine can be complemented by a tender lamb shank served with a mint gremolata. The mint brightens the dish and works well with the wine’s profile.
- Eggplant Parmesan: For a vegetarian option, try eggplant parmesan. The roasted beets in the wine can be echoed by the earthy flavors of roasted or grilled eggplant, while the tomato sauce complements the cherry and plum notes.
- Spiced Dark Chocolate Dessert: Consider a spiced dark chocolate mousse or tart for dessert. The wine’s spice and dark chocolate elements will align beautifully with the dessert’s flavors.
- Charcuterie: Create a charcuterie board with a selection of cured meats like chorizo, salami, and prosciutto. Add a creamy Camembert or Brie to balance the wine’s complexity. Spread it on crusty bread, and the wine’s floral and dark fruit notes will be enhanced by the creamy texture of the cheese. These salty and savory options contrast with the wine’s fruitiness and tobacco notes.
When serving Ever Forward, slightly chilling it to around 60-65°F (15-18°C) can help highlight its various nuances. The goal is to balance and enhance the wine’s intricate flavor profile, making for a memorable dining experience.