2022 Cabernet Franc: Food and Wine Pairings
The 2022 Cabernet Franc is a rich and savory expression of this classic varietal, reflecting the distinct terroir of the Sierra Foothills. Vibrant aromas of strawberry, raspberry, red plum, and cherry, along with delicate floral notes of strawberry blossoms, lead into a layered palate of juicy dark fruit, green bell pepper, subtle spice, and earthy undertones. This medium-bodied wine features bright acidity and structured tannins, offering a balanced and food-friendly profile. Its versatility shines with herbaceous, smoky, and umami-rich dishes, making it a perfect companion for a variety of pairings like pesto pasta, herb-crusted lamb, smoked sausages and grilled portobello mushrooms. Recomendations for Cabernet Franc Grilled Chorizo Skewers – Adds a smoky-spicy dimension Bruschetta with Eggplant & Peppers – Smoky flavors highlight the wine’s peppery notes Baked Brie with Cranberry Chutney – The fruitiness enhances the wine’s red berry notes Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms – Earthy mushrooms and tangy goat cheese complement the wine’s herbal character Buy this Wine
2022 Ron’s Reserve Red: Food and Wine Pairings
The 2022 Ron’s Reserve Red Blend is a bold tribute to winemaker Ron Feist, with a label designed by his grandchildren—each formula and equation telling his life’s journey. This meticulously crafted red blend, led by Cabernet Franc, complemented by Primitivo, Mourvèdre, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, delivers layered complexity and depth. Juicy black plum, red cherry, and blackberry meld with green bell pepper, rich chocolate, vanilla, and caramel aromas. Silky tannins lead to a long, elegant finish, making this smooth, crowd-pleasing red perfectly satisfying for pairing with rich meats, aged cheeses, and great company. Recomendations for Ron’s Reserve Red Beef Wellington Bites – The tender beef and buttery pastry enhance the wine’s rich fruit and tannic structure, while the mushroom duxelles and herbs highlight its earthy depth. Crostini with Grilled Sweet Onions and Blue Cheese – Funky, salty blue cheese balances the bold tannins, while the sweet caramelized onions bring out the wine’s dark fruit notes. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Parmesan – The salty, crispy prosciutto cuts through the red blend’s firm tannins, while the roasted asparagus enhances its herbal undertones. Aged Gouda & Fig Jam on Crackers – Nutty, caramelized notes of aged Gouda balance the red blend tannins, while fig jam enhances its ripe fruit profile. Buy this Wine
2022 GG’s Acorn Merlot: Food and Wine Pairings
The 2022 GG’s Acorn Merlot is a refined and expressive red that captures Lake County’s unique terroir. Known as a “Smooth Operator” of grapes, this Merlot boasts a balanced profile of ripe red fruit aromas and a subtle herbaceous sage undertone. The wine opens with notes of cherry, red plum, and raspberry, complemented by hints of vanilla and oak nuances, adding depth and complexity. The wine’s smooth, approachable acidity and gentle tannins lead to a balanced, refreshing finish. With its fruit-forward appeal and nuanced complexity, GG’s Merlot pairs well with a range of dishes, including rack of lamb, filet mignon with peppercorn sauce, roast chicken, or pasta with red sauce. Recomendations for GG’s Acorn Merlot Roasted Beet, Pear and Goat Cheese Salad – The earthy sweetness of roasted beets complements Merlot’s ripe berry flavors, while the creamy goat cheese enhances the wine’s smooth texture, and pear adds a touch of crunchy sweetness. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Garlic & Thyme – The earthy umami of grilled Portobellos pairs wonderfully with Merlot’s herbal and earthy notes, while the garlic and thyme bring out the wine’s savory richness. Prosciutto and Melon – The sweetness of the melon balances Merlot’s dark fruit notes, while the saltiness of the prosciutto brings out the wine’s soft tannins. Smoked Honey-Mustard Chicken Wings – The smoky, slightly sweet chicken wings complement Merlot’s dark fruit and subtle oak, while the honey-mustard glaze enhances the wine’s soft, fruit-driven profile. Aged Cheddar & Apple Slices – The sharp, nutty flavor of aged cheddar pairs beautifully with Merlot’s rich berry flavors, while the crisp, tart apples add a refreshing balance to the wine’s smoothness. Charcuterie with Mild Cheeses – A variety of mild cheeses (like Brie, Havarti, or Gouda) and light charcuterie (like salami or prosciutto) work beautifully with Merlot’s smooth and fruity character. A bit of honey or fig jam for a sweet contrast to the savory meats and cheeses. Buy this Wine
2022 Primitivo: Food and Wine Pairings
The 2022 Primitivo is a distinguished red that showcases the unique terroir of the Amador County region—thriving in optimal soil and climate conditions. This bold red balances dark fruit flavors of blueberry, blackberry, and a hint of black licorice, complemented by floral notes of violet. Oak aging imparts a touch of vanilla, adding depth to the lush, approachable profile. Dark fruit carries through the palate, leading to a smooth, long finish with layers of spice and cocoa. With its rich texture, bold flavors, and high alcohol content, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, BBQ, spicy Mediterranean cuisine, and hearty Italian fare like Spaghetti Bolognese or meatball pasta. Recomendations for Primitivo Smoked Brisket – Complements the wine’s smoky and peppery notes. BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Caramelized Onions – The sweet, smoky BBQ sauce highlights Primitivo’s jammy fruit flavors, while the pork’s richness pairs with the wine’s smooth tannins. Blue Cheese & Fig Flatbread with Balsamic Glaze – The sweet figs mirror Primitivo’s dark berry notes, while the funky blue cheese contrasts beautifully with the wine’s spicy undertones. Aged Gouda – The caramelized nuttiness of aged Gouda enhances Primitivo’s dark fruit and spice. Manchego – The nutty and slightly salty character of Manchego complements Primitivo’s bright fruit and acidity. Cured Meats (Prosciutto, Soppressata) – Complements the wine’s savory notes. Buy this Wine
2022 Mourvèdre: Food and Wine Pairings
The 2022 Mourvèdre (known as Monastrell in Spain) is the bold backbone of our Golden GSM blend, alongside Grenache and Syrah. Sourced from vineyards in the Sierra Nevada Foothills, this Rhône varietal thrives in the region’s cool mountain climate and granite-rich soils, developing depth, structure, and complexity. This rich, full-bodied red opens with warm spice aromas, leading into dark fruit flavors of blackberry, plum, and blueberry, layered with black pepper and subtle earthy undertones. Supple tannins and vibrant acidity create a beautifully balanced wine with excellent aging potential. Rustic yet refined, Mourvèdre’s smoky, gamey nuances make it an ideal pairing for grilled meats, hearty stews, and dishes with Spanish flavors, delivering a compelling and distinctive tasting experience. Recomendations for Mourvèdre Balsamic Roasted Mushrooms – Earthy, umami-rich mushrooms highlight Mourvèdre’s deep, savory qualities, while the balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness that complements the wine’s dark fruit notes. Braised Short Ribs – The rich, tender meat balances Mourvèdre’s tannins. Chorizo or Spicy Sausages – The wine’s fruitiness balances the heat. Serve with a side of roasted red peppers or sautéed greens to balance the richness. Mushroom Risotto – The umami complements its bold profile. Chicken & Chorizo Paella with Smoked Paprika – Spanish flavors pair beautifully with this varietal originating from Spain. Smoked Salmon Crostini – The smoky salmon enhances Mourvèdre’s subtle smokiness, while the creamy cheese and fresh dill balance its acidity and tannins. Aged Gouda or Manchego – Nutty and firm textures balance the wine’s tannins. Blue Cheese with Fig Jam – A contrast of bold and sweet flavors. Charcuterie Board with Cured Meats & Olives – The richness of cured meats (like salami, prosciutto, or chorizo) balances Mourvèdre’s tannins, while salty olives bring out the wine’s savory complexity. Buy this Wine
2022 Golden GSM: Food and Wine Pairings
The 2022 Hill Top Oaks Golden GSM is a classic mélange à trois—harmonizing the bold yet elegant characteristics of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre from California’s Sierra Foothills. The region’s cool mountain climate and granite-rich soils contribute to its elegance and complexity, enhancing its refined structure and depth. This vintage bursts with vivid flavors of cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, complemented by subtle herbal aromatics and delicate floral undertones. The red fruit notes carry seamlessly onto the palate, where balanced acidity enhances its food-friendly versatility. Whether paired with roasted meats, Mediterranean cuisine, or savory vegetarian dishes, this Rhône-style blend delivers an expressive and effortlessly enjoyable tasting journey. Recomendations for Golden GSM Honey-Glazed Chorizo & Manchego Crostini – The smoky, spicy chorizo enhances Syrah’s peppery notes, the nutty Manchego complements Mourvèdre’s earthiness, and the honey adds a sweet contrast to Grenache’s red fruit. Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese – The sweet dates and tangy goat cheese highlight Grenache’s bright fruit and Mourvèdre’s earthy depth, while the bacon matches Syrah’s smoky character. Lamb Meatballs with Harissa Yogurt Dip – Pairs beautifully with Syrah and Mourvèdre’s savory elements, while the yogurt balances the blend’s acidity and fruitiness. Grilled Mushroom & Truffle Bruschetta – Earthy mushrooms enhance Mourvèdre’s rustic quality, while truffle oil highlights Syrah’s depth and spice. Charcuterie Board with Prosciutto, Olives & Fig Jam – The mix of salty, sweet, and savory flavors plays well with GSM’s fruit, spice, and tannin structure. Include marcona almonds and dark chocolate for extra layers of flavor. Buy this Wine