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!
Mapping and Directions to Hoyt Family Vineyard
2. Glazed Ham and a Sophisticated Pinot
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.
Mapping and Directions to Sextant Winery
3. Deviled Eggs and an Aromatic Chardonnay
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.”
Mapping and Directions to Sculpterra Winery
4. Creamy Cadbury Egg and a Fruity Red Blend
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.
5. Lemony Asparagus and a Citrusy White
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.
Mapping and Directions to Rava Wines
This blog was written by Hayley Thomas Cain, food and wine writer for SLO New Times and PasoRoblesWineries.net. You can reach her at hthomas@newtimesslo.com or follow her on instagram @flavorslo.
If you’re looking for a place to spend the night in Paso Robles, checkout:
The Adelaide Inn is an iconic, lo
cally 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.
Directions: speedfind.com/AdelaideInn
Majestically set among vineyards, olive groves and fruit baring orchards, the 20-acre Allegretto Vineyard Resort is a world unto itself, offering breathtaking settings that inspire and bring joy to all who choose this memorable wine country haven. Featuring 171 rooms and suites, on-site spa, grand ballroom, wine tasting room, and inspired culinary creations at Cello, the resort’s full service restaurant.
Directions: speedfind.com/Allegretto
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.
Directions: speedfind.com/LaBellasera
Hampton Inn & Suites Paso Robles is nestled in the Central Coast wine region, home to over 200 wineries, beautiful beaches, mountains and diverse attractions. Relax and revive in a comfortable guest room with all you need for a successful stay. You can count on Hampton to deliver value, consistency and service with a smile. We love having you here®
Directions: speedfind.com/PRWine.HamptonInn
Experience the pristine countryside of Paso Robles Wine Country at Lekai Ranch. Lounge on the porch of your private suite and lose yourself in the tranquility and stunning views of the vineyards and oak studded hills beyond. This vacation rental is located just minutes from some of the most distinguished wineries and a premier olive oil estate, and only 15 minutes from downtown Paso Robles’ restaurants, wineries and shopping.
Directions: speedfind.com/Lekai | vrbo.com/701796
Enjoy the elegance, style and natural beauty of California’s Central Coast at the JUST Inn®. Surrounded by vineyards, our JUST Inn Suites offer luxurious appointments like fireplaces, Tempur-Pedic®mattresses, Frette linens, hydro-spa tubs, and range in size from 600–1,200 square feet. An overnight stay includes breakfast and a tour of the winery and caves.
Directions: speedfind.com/JustinWine
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.
Directions: speedfind.com/PasoRoblesVacationRentals