That mischievous Easter Bunny and his basket of neon-colored peeps might send the kids into a tizzy, but our guess is you’re more interested in what’s being passed around the “grown’s up table.” From classic deviled eggs to tangy ham, here are five fantastic Easter Paso wine pairings that’ll bring a bit of bounce back to your step! Of course, we’re all known to sneak a cut of the kid’s Easter Basket when the sweet tooth calls. Just make sure you hide the evidence.
1. Herby Lamb and a Bold Cab
That strong, gamey “lamb” flavor bolstered by fresh-cut herbs (sprigs of enticing rosemary come to mind) work best when paired with a bold red wine with plenty of structure and tannin. Hoyt Family Vineyards makes a holiday-worthy Cab practically made to accompany a festive leg of lamb dish (won Best of Class by the San Francisco Wine Chronicle). The winery’s impressive 2012 vintage boasts a round mouth feel and fruit forward flavor with lots of leggy lusciousness to spare. Mint jelly not included. In fact, you’ll hardly need it!
Is there anything more “Spring” than the sight of a shining glazed ham served early, when the birds are still chirping? Echo the addictive sweet and sour flavors found in the brined, salty meat with a sophisticated pinot noir with plenty of tangy personality. Sextant Winery’s 2015 Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands is full of tart raspberry and strawberry heightened by black truffle and spicy sage notes. High acidity and light, silky tannins keep you salivating for that next porky bite.
You just can’t resist them, no matter what your trainer says. Those perky little egg whites filled with buttery yolk, mayo and spicy relish have a way of heightening garden party lawn games or a simple family brunch into a true “event.” Pair fatty, creamy Deviled eggs with a bright chardonnay that expresses fresh aromatics and a hit of welcome acid. Sculpterra Winery’s 2016 Chardonnay offers up perfumed pear, apricot and apple notes to bring levity to this notoriously rich snack. A nutty touch of roasted almond round out your new Easter obsession. Did I say obsession? I meant “tradition.”
Love them or hate them, they are Easter nostalgia wrapped in colourful foil. Swipe one from your kid’s Easter basket or let appearances fall by wayside and buy your own clutch for safekeeping. One thing’s certain: All that creamy milk chocolate and—well, creamy “crème” filling—call out for a totally indulgent, fruity and fun blend that knows how to live a little. Lusso Della Terra’s Avanzi – California blend is perfect for such a playful occasion. With aromas of bold red fruit and subtle notes of berries and spice, you’ll feel like a kid again. Well, a kid who knows his way around a wine shop.
Sure, you can get most veggies all year round, but it’s not really worth it when that heirloom tomato or Swiss chard just tastes “so-so.” Fresh, spring asparagus procured from the local farmer’s market is a true seasonal delicacy worth waiting all winter for. You might be tempted to wrap the tender greens in bacon or top with a creamy caper sauce, but I say the first stalks of Spring really need nothing more than a pat of salted butter and a twist of fresh lemon (plus a little zest, for good measure). Pair this “sunshine on a plate” with an equally fresh, citrusy wine. Rava Wines sparkling selections are light and flirtatious, sending this vegetarian dish to new, romantic heights. Added plus: You’ll feel so spry, you might even be tempted to follow the lead of the birds and the bees.
This blog was written by Hayley Thomas Cain, food and wine writer for SLO New Times and PasoRoblesWineries.net. You can reach her at [email protected] or follow her on instagram @flavorslo.
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The Adelaide Inn is an iconic, locally owned hotel known for its friendly staff and lush landscaping. With spacious rooms and a convenient location close to highway 101 and the event center – home of the California Mid-State Fair – this hotel is a great choice for most travelers.
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La Bellasera Hotel & Suites is an elegant boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Central Coast Wine Country. Influenced by Mediterranean and Italian architecture, the luxurious accommodations reflect the aged sophistication of the Central Coast region and the relaxed nature of the California countryside.
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Paso Robles Vacation Rentals, also known as PasoStay.com assists guests in creating memories and wonderful experiences by providing quality privately owned vacation home rentals in Paso Robles Wine Country. With over 90 vacation homes to choose from, small enough for a couple’s romantic getaway to large homes amongst local vineyards and olive orchards, PasoStay.com has the perfect option for you. Feel free to call 805-423-9174 to talk with a local expert or book online at PasoStay.com.
Make the most of your Paso Robles wine experience with our definitive wine tasting map – the most comprehensive guide available for navigating Paso Robles wine country.
Explore all of Paso Robles’ wine regions with our expertly curated map featuring every tasting room in the area. Today, there are over 200 tasting rooms and our recommendations are always highlighted in bold.
