Pinot Noir for January

Beer and Wine, Drinks, Wine 101
on January 1, 2013
Cambria label
https://easykitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/cambria-label-150x150.jpg

Cambria Estate Winery “Julia’s Vineyard” 2010 Pinot Noir (Santa Maria Valley; $25)

This wine tastes tailor-made for winter enjoyment—especially for those times when you’re looking for the elegance and food-friendliness of a Pinot Noir, but want some heft in your glass, too. Enjoy deep, lush flavors of dark cherries, the vibrancy of strawberries, and a long, spicy finish—all delivered in a firm yet graceful package.

Yes, it’s a splurge, but in my experience, Pinot Noirs this good generally cost even more, and are a lot more difficult to find. Here’s a widely available choice that’s worth bringing out for an intimate dinner party.

Recipe Recommendations:

These winter-perfect dishes will flatter the Cambria Estates Winery “Julia’s Vineyard” Pinot Noir:

  •  Rosemary Apricot Pork Tenderloin
  • Roasted Breast of Chicken with Mushrooms Duxelles and Herb Butter
  • Hudson Valley Duck
  • Beef Bourguignon
  • Chile-Pomegranate Chicken Thighs
  • Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb

Relish wine and cocktails columnist Wini Moranville is the author of The Bonne Femme Cookbook: Simple, Splendid Food That French Women Cook Every Day.