It’s time to fire up the grill, don the apron, and wield the flipper and fork to make the juiciest steaks, kabobs, or barbecued chicken in the entire neighborhood. Right now, I’m thinking of a sizzling rib eye and a few cheeseburgers to tantalize a few friends and family this weekend. Of course, this festivus of meats will be paired will plenty of good conversation and laughter with sides of red wines flowing on repeat!
During the last few months, I’ve had the opportunity to sip some memorable reds that will be exceptional with your barbecue menu. If you have already read the articles linked below at publication, enjoy a second sip. Then promise to find the wines. Enjoy!
Lucy Wines Produces Gamay Noir, a Nod to Beaujolais with a California Vibe
Gamay Noir originates in the Beaujolais region of France where it thrives on soils predominantly of granite. However, we can find Lucy 2025 Gamay Noir ($30) produced in the Santa Lucia Highland boasting similar soils: decomposed granite. As an homage to the wine production style of Beaujolais, this wine was fermented with 60% whole clusters in open-top tanks to create a semi-carbonic environment. After fermentation, the Gamay Noir was transferred to neutral French oak barrels for 8 months prior to bottling, unfined and unfiltered.
Aromas of purple florals, cranberries, baking spice, and pomegranate were a mesmerizing entry. Framed with soft tannic structure and just-right acidity, more red fruit such as cherries were luscious. Find the article HERE.
Balverne Forever Wild Pinot Noir Complements Your Grill Favorites
Just lovely with dinner was Balverne 2022 Forever Wild Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley) ($45). Expressive aromas of red fruit, baking spice, raspberries, strawberries, hints of cinnamon, earth, and dash of black pepper led to savory flavors of rich red fruit, cherry cola, herbs, and spice. Balanced with soft tannins and moderate acidity, this versatile wine will complement an array of go-to dishes. Find the article HERE.
St. Francis Reserve Cabernet is Just What the Gourmet Burger Craves
Burger night was suddenly elevated with St. Francis Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley 2021 (about $55) in the glass. But this was not any old burger enjoyed with the impressive wine, though. That night, our main dish was a grass fed burger topped with avocado, chipotle mayonnaise, and a few sprigs of cilantro.
This Cabernet boasted a dark plum color in the glass and I was smitten by its aromas of chocolate, spice, dark plums, and earth. Rich and creamy on the palate, I found dark red and black fruits, black cherries, more chocolate, and vanilla on a foundation of bright acidity and just-right tannic structure. In essence, the taste sensations were impeccable and the wine’s soft, lengthy finish was on point. Find the article HERE.
Bratwurst and Wines from Johan Vineyards
Each time I pour a glass of Blaufrankisch, I’m reminded how much I love this wine. The Johan Vineyards 2021 Blaufrankisch ($40) is no exception. Its dark and ripe red fruit and plethora of herbal aromas were an enticing entry. On the palate, I found vibrant acidity and soft tannins along with minerality, earth, savory herbs and a lasting finish. Delicate yet rich, sips of the Blaufrankisch, then a bite of the bratwurst were lip-smacking and memorable. Find the article HERE.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
