There is nothing in this life that evokes ethereal pleasure more than enjoying a glass of wine with dinner.
It is all in the balance between the two. Neither should over-power the other. The stoic rules that used to describe best practices are gone. It is much more about what you like. Obviously you want complementation.
I look for wines that are balanced inherently. Good quality wines are found by doing the research. I trust magazines like Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast to suss out quality and then look at price points for great buys.
I cook dinner around the wine. Usually employing the wine in a sauce or vinaigrette. Many times I will put a small amount in the marinade.
This provides a blending effect that is wonderful.
At the table you complete the experience by noting the compliments.
Today’s Blue Sky Recipe:
Roasted Garlic-Chipotle Mayo
Roast 1 bulb of garlic and squeeze out 2 TBLS
Find Chipotle in adobo sauce at the store. You need 2 chilies
Blend in processor 2 cups mayo
Season with essence, white pepper, chili powder, salt.
Use for sandwich spread or a dipping sauce. Great with Coastal Estates cab. 2006
“body meets kick”
~AC
