The ground has thawed, the days have stretched, and we’re shaking off the last of the winter chill. Spring is here, and there’s a lot to celebrate—like bottling the first of last year’s vintages and watching the vines work to bring in this year’s fruit.
With spring, a flurry of seasonal dining room favorites also become available. Veggies and greens like asparagus, artichokes, ramps and rocket are in abundance. Carnivores can enjoy lamb and wild rabbit, while seafood lovers rejoice over Mahi Mahi, wild Alaskan salmon and king crab.
Because of all this, and because spring is also a time for matchmaking, we’ve curated a selection of pairings featuring seasonal dishes matched with the perfect M Cellars vintage. Here are five food and wine pairings to try this spring.
1. Crab Cakes with Spring Onion | 2019 Dry Rosé
A crunchy-on-the-outside, creamy-on-the-inside classic crab cake screams for an accompaniment that is bright and fruit-forward. Our 2019 Dry Rosé makes for the impeccable partner, complementing the tangy, slightly spiced flavor and balancing the dish with its crisp acidity.
2. Roast Lamb with Spring Vegetables | 2017 Meritage Reserve
Although later-season lamb has a more developed flavor, spring lamb offers the most tender cuts, which are ideal for roasting with garlic and herbs and serving with peas and asparagus. You’ll want a wine that’s full-bodied, bold and complex, and our award-winning 2017 Meritage Reserve brings all of that to the table. (Hurry though, as of this posting, there are only 15 cases left).
3. Fresh Spring Rolls | 2019 Rkatsiteli
Traditionally packed with Asian spring vegetables and shrimp, these rice-paper wrapped rolls are bursting with fresh, clean flavors that go delightfully well with warming weather. The beautifully balanced fruit and spiciness of our much-loved 2019 Rkatsiteli is perfectly poised to elevate this dining experience.
4. Tagliatelle Carbonara with Spring Greens | 2018 Chardonnay Reserve
A full-bodied, creamy Chardonnay is an ideal match for a rich cream sauce like carbonara. Throw in some seasonal greens like ramps or mustard greens and you have a sumptuous spring feast.
5. Brunch of Any Kind | 2019 Brut Rosé
Brunch calls for bubbles. And, while some may dispute that sparkling wine goes with any menu item, we think our Brut Rosé is versatile enough to live up to the claim. Eggs Benedict? The crisp bubbles make a welcome complement and palate cleanser. Burger with potato chips? The dry acidity and hint of sweetness will balance the salt and savoriness without overpowering.
Have a great idea for a perfect spring pair? Share it in the comments or in our social communities. Or better yet, stop in to enjoy an afternoon at the vineyard and tell us in person.
