February can be tough. The big holidays are behind us, spring is still a distant dream, and the worst of winter is at hand. Thankfully, there’s wine. And to go with it, warm, seasonal recipes to defrost our bodies and souls. Winter pairings are a great way to keep cozy and comforted through the big chill.
When choosing winter wines, here are a few tips that can help. Since winter foods are generally heartier, you might want a wine that can stand up to rich, savory flavors. Think bold and fuller-bodied. Because it’s cold out there, we tend to prefer wines served at warmer temperatures. And the drier, earthier varietals often win out over the refreshing and fruity. There’s nothing like a velvety, tannin-rich red to feel like you’re wrapping yourself in a warm blanket.
Of course, rules are meant to be broken, and at the end of the day, it’s all about your preferences. So drink what you like. But if you’re looking for recommendations, here are five to enjoy.
2019 Meritage Reserve and Roasted Lamb Shanks
For many wine lovers, a deep, rich red alongside a plate of savory, slow-cooked meat is the ultimate winter wine experience. These fall-off-the-bone shanks with a lemon and herb infusion pair perfectly with our prized Bordeaux blend. The bold, complex flavors and warming tannins are a strong match for these slow-roasted choice cuts.
2019 Chardonnay Reserve and Lobster Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce
Oak-aged Chardonnay is the classic partner for lobster. Wrap that lobster in ravioli and add a sage brown butter sauce and you’ve got a match made in gastronomical heaven. The creamy texture, rich flavors and full body of our 2019 Chardonnay Reserve make the ideal match for the buttery, savory elements in this elegant winter warmer. Try this recipe from Isabel Laessig.
2019 Pinot Noir Reserve and Red Wine Braised Short Ribs
Need an easy yet impressive crowd-pleaser? Look no further than this duo that breathes both luxury and comfort. The earthy notes and medium body of our Pinot Noir Reserve will elevate the rich and tender short ribs without overpowering. This recipe from Claire Robison incorporates a red wine reduction.
2020 Cabernet-Merlot and Hearty American Beef Stew
Cook up a bowl of cozy winter comfort with a classic American beef stew stocked with harvest veggies and umami flavor. Our 2020 Cabernet-Merlot (available through our Wine Club) makes an ideal match, with rich flavors, subtle spices and velvety tannins. Use your grandmother’s recipe, or give this one a try.
2019 Riesling and Black Truffle Risotto
Wintertime is truffle time, so if you want to feel a little fancy while fighting through February, give this Black Truffle Risotto from Michael Symon a go. To pair with this creamy-meets-earthy majesty, you’ll want something rich in aroma, but that won’t overpower the delicate characteristics of the truffle. A light, earthy red would do, but we love the fragrancy, freshness and soft texture of our 2019 Riesling for this dish. It’s not your classic winter wine, but it’s perfect for celebrating truffles on the trail to springtime.
