Happy Independence Day!
In honor of this beloved summer holiday, we’ve selected a few wines that pair best with the months of July and August, and which classic summer dishes make for an even heightened state of palatal bliss.
With poached yellow stone fruit, juicy Asian pear and baked green apple flavors, our house Chardonnay seems like it was made to chill in an ice bucket. This is the wine we recommend as a starter to a relaxing day off, pairing beautifully with a cheese board, lawn chair and pool.
2. 2011 Chardonnay, Sangiacomo Green Acres Vineyard, Carneros
A brand new release in our Tasting Hall, the 2011 Sangiacomo Green Acres Chardonnay is aromatically driven with pineapple, yellow peach, Jasmine tea and buttercup notes, followed by sweet grain, cornmeal and toasted pinenut flavors on the palate. Chef’s recommendation: pair with grilled pork chops.
A lovely “house red” to serve in late afternoon as a before-dinner drink or alongside fried chicken (we recommend Thomas Keller’s recipe). The rich, elegant Pinot Noir is dense with dried rose, potpourri, black cherry, fresh forest floor, mint, soy, tamarindo and sweet cherry cola flavors on the nose and palate, topped off with black cherry, pureed raspberry and a peppery finish. Be sure to serve at or below cellar temperature, especially on a warm summer day.
4. 2010 Syrah, Parmelee-Hill Vineyard, Sonoma Coast
Syrah + grilled fare = sublime. The Parmelee-Hill’s classic Syrah notes of graphite, white peppercorn, sweet cherry vanilla, cured prosciutto and worn leather complement any rich food pairing. Serve with ribs or lamb.
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As always, our Tasting Hall is open today and through the weekend from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with the last appointment beginning at 5:30 pm. Click here to make your appointment; we look forward to seeing you! Cheers, and have a safe and delightful holiday weekend.
Ram's Gate Winery Ramblings 