Tag Archives: Cocktail Recipes

The Wilson family, owners of Wilson Creek Winery, are not just passionate about wine; they are survivors of the devastating Route 91 Harvest Festival shooting in Las Vegas. The devastating events of that night in Las Vegas profoundly affected them, and every year, they find ways to give back to the community that has become so close to their hearts. Their dedication to honoring those affected by Route 91 runs deep, with a commitment to ensuring that the memory of those lost lives on.

Each year, in remembrance of those who lost their lives and in support of the survivors, Wilson Creek Winery creates special commemorative wine bottles. These bottles aren’t just a product—they represent hope, healing, and a tribute to the lives impacted. What makes these bottles even more significant is the tradition that surrounds their creation.

The same group of friends who stood beside the Wilsons during that terrible night at Route 91 gathers every year to hand-label these commemorative bottles. This yearly ritual has become a time of healing for them—a chance to come together, reflect on what they endured, and honor the memory of those they lost. For this group, the act of hand-labeling each bottle isn’t just a task—it’s a labor of love, a way to connect to something greater, and a shared moment of support for one another.

This year, the Wilson family is donating the proceeds of bottle sales to the Forever One memorial honoring the 58 victims. 

As the leaves turn gold and the air grows crisp, Fall is the perfect season to indulge in comfort foods and rich flavors. There’s nothing quite like curling up with a glass of wine and a selection of cheese as you savor the cozy essence of Autumn. The combination of wine and cheese is a timeless duo, and in the Fall, the richness of seasonal wines pair beautifully with aged, bold, and creamy cheeses. Here’s how to pair wine with cheese to elevate your fall gatherings or cozy nights in.

1. 2021 Cabernet Franc & Aged Cheddar

Our award winning Cab Franc, known for its full body, dark fruit notes, and hints of spice, is a wine that pairs beautifully with aged cheddar. As the days cool down, the rich, nutty flavors of cheddar bring out the bold tannins, making each sip smoother. The sharpness of cheddar also cuts through the tannins, creating a balanced tasting experience. For a Fall touch, add spiced nuts or fig jam to your cheese board.

Why It Works: The robust flavors of aged cheddar match the intensity of our Gold Medal Cab Franc, while the cheddar’s creamy texture complements its bold tannins.

2. 2021 Reserve Merlot & Brie

Merlot is a versatile Fall wine with its lighter body, earthy undertones, and hints of red berries. It pairs elegantly with soft, creamy cheeses like Brie. The earthiness of the 2021 Reserve Merlot mirrors the buttery and slightly tangy flavor of Brie, while the wine’s acidity helps to cut through the richness of the cheese. Serve with slices of apple or pear for a perfect autumn bite.

Why It Works: Brie’s creaminess tempers our Merlot’s acidity, while the wine’s fruity notes enhance the cheese’s subtle flavors.

3. 2022 Yes Dear Chardonnay & Gruyère

Our Chardonnay, being aged in French Oak, has a buttery, nutty profile that complements the nutty, slightly sweet flavors of Gruyère. Gruyère’s rich texture pairs well with the creamy butter texture of Chardonnay, especially as the weather starts to cool down and heavier white wines become more appealing. Try this pairing with a warm, homemade bread for a satisfying Fall snack.

Why It Works: The buttery and creamy qualities in both our 2022 Yes Dear Chardonnay and Gruyère create a harmonious pairing, perfect for a cozy night in.

4. 2020 Zinfandel & Gouda

Our 2020 Zinfandel, with its bold, jammy flavors and peppery finish, is a Fall favorite that pairs wonderfully with the deep, caramel notes of aged Gouda. The dark berries in the wine balances the savory, almost butterscotch-like flavors of Gouda. This pairing works particularly well in Fall due to Zinfandel’s warmth and spiciness, making it a delightful choice for cool evenings.

Why It Works: Our 2020 Zinfandel’s fruit-forward profile balances the salty, savory flavors of Gouda, while the cheese’s firm texture contrasts the 2020 Zinfandel’s bold finish.

5. 2020 Syrah & Blue Cheese

For those who love bold flavors, Syrah and blue cheese make a dynamic duo. Our 2020 Syrah’s well integrated tannins and rich, blackberry aromas can handle the intensity of blue cheese. The creamy, pungent notes of the cheese contrast with the wine’s velvety texture, and together, they create a balanced bite. Add some walnuts or honey for a sweet contrast that enhances both flavors.

Why It Works: The lush, velvety Syrah cuts through the strong, salty bite of blue cheese, while the wine’s fruitiness softens the cheese’s boldness.

6. White Cabernet & Goat Cheese

White Cabernet is a bright, fruity wine that pairs perfectly with the tangy, fresh taste of goat cheese. As the weather transitions, this pairing offers a refreshing break from the rich, heavier flavors that dominate fall. The crisp acidity of our White Cabernet balances the creamy, slightly tart profile of goat cheese. Add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of dried cranberries to your goat cheese for a fall twist.

Why It Works: The high acidity of our White Cabernet complements the tanginess of goat cheese, while the wine’s fruity notes brighten the cheese’s creamy texture.

Tips for Creating the Perfect Fall Cheese Board

• Add seasonal fruits and nuts: Complement your wine and cheese pairings with fall favorites like figs, apples, pears, and spiced nuts.
• Incorporate spreads: Jams, chutneys, and honey can add a layer of complexity and enhance the flavors of both your wine and cheese.
• Serve at the right temperature: Allow cheese to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Red wines should be slightly cooler than room temperature, and white wines chilled but not too cold.

Pairing wine with cheese is an art, and in fall, the rich, warm flavors of the season allow for some truly delightful combinations. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, these wine and cheese pairings will help you savor the cozy, comforting flavors of Autumn. Cheers to a delicious Fall!

1. Plant Sap Analysis: We conduct biweekly sap analysis during the growing season. This gives us a detailed, time-lapsed understanding of nutrient uptake by our plants, ensuring they receive exactly what they need.
2. Soil Health Testing: Monthly Haney biological soil respiration tests help us gauge the soil’s biological activity. Additionally, twice a year, we use PCR tests to monitor changes in the soil microbiome. This allows us to track and understand the biodiversity beneath our feet.

1. Physical Soil Assessments: Each month, we carry out USDA physical soil health assessments. These help us keep a close watch on the physical characteristics of our soil.
2. Insect Monitoring: We actively monitor potential insect pests and beneficial insects year-round. We also incorporate insectary flowering plants within our cover crops to attract and support beneficial insects. In partnership with the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association, we’ve taken over the monitoring of the Glassy-Winged Sharpshooter after funding for the program was cut in 2023.
3. Collaborative Studies: Our ongoing collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Soil Salinity Lab focuses on the effects of increased organic matter and biological activity on soil salinity and plant nutrient uptake. We also worked with the Metropolitan Water District on a multi-year study using satellite and ground-based technologies to monitor irrigation, plant health, and environmental models predicting pathogen vulnerability.
4. Compost Testing: In partnership with Abbott Pharmaceuticals and CR&R Waste Management, we tested various compost levels and application strategies to enhance soil health.
5. Ant Control Research: We completed a year-long study with UC Irvine to develop seaweed-based natural alternatives for controlling Argentine ants.
6. Cover Crops: Each year, we plant diverse cover crops to boost soil health. We monitor their effects in collaboration with Green Cover Seeds, Regen Ag Labs, and Advancing Eco Agriculture.
7. Soil and Plant Health Correlation: Wilson Creek Winery is one of the first agricultural operations in the U.S. to conduct a multi-year study correlating in-depth soil health analysis with plant sap analysis to understand the vineyard microbiome better. We use Ag Code field software and data from Regen Ag Labs and Advancing Eco Agriculture for this project.
8. Grazing Sheep: We’ve introduced grazing sheep into our vineyards to enhance microbial diversity and soil health naturally.

Stay cool this weekend with a huge bowl of Watermelon Sangria! Our Watermelon Sparkling is bursting with nostalgic mid-summer fruit flavors. A perfect accompaniment to sun-drenched days by the pool or a BBQ with friends!

Article by Mick Wilson

I often hear from members and guests that they desire to grow in their wine knowledge but don’t know how. So I thought I’d share some resources that have helped me.

The best starting point is the website winefolly.com. The best video to start is “How to Taste Wine like a Badass.” Then you can dive deeper into articles and videos on regions and varietals. There is also a solid book called “Wine Folly, Magnum Edition”.  It is worth it.

I love the phone app called Vivino. You simply take a photo of a wine label and it tells you the pricing and often has reviews of that wine. This is a good resource for seeing the value of wines you have as well as when you go shopping.

Some books I recommend are: “The Wine Lover’s Apprentice” by Kathlene Berhsad, “Cork Dork” by Bianca Busker, “A Hedonist in the Cellar” by Jay McInerney, “Wine Simple” by Aldo Sohm, and “Message in the Bottle: A Guide to Tasting Wine” by Tim Gaiser (who is a Master Sommelier). A classic is “The Wine Bible 3rd Edition” by Karen MacNeil. Whether you read it or not it looks impressive on your home coffee table or on a shelf for all to see. An even more impressive looking book (and also useful) is “The World Atlas of Wine” by Hugh Johnson and Jancis Robinson.

Of course the best way to learn about wine is to taste it, a lot of it. Take the Wine Academy classes at Wilson Creek, visit other wine regions and learn why those wines taste the way they do, and simply enjoy tasting wine with others here at Wilson Creek. Do a brown bag night at a home where you invite 4-5 people/couples and have them bring a particular Wilson Creek wine. It is always fun to learn from others. But remember, we all have different palates so the best wine is what YOU like.  

If I see you around the winery I’d love to sit down over a glass and answer any questions you might have. And I’d love to hear from you what you are learning and how you are growing in your enjoyment of wine!

-Mick Wilson

We love a good summer dessert, especially in the Temecula heat! This mouthwatering Peach Cobbler is such a fun, easy dessert and so delicious. Top with our whiskey whipped cream and this will be your go-to summer dessert from now on! 

Pairs well with our Wilson Creek Moscato

Ingredients

• 4 cups peeled sliced peaches
• 2 cups sugar, divided
• ½ cup water
• 8 tablespoons butter
• 1 ½ cups self-rising flour
• 1 ½ cups milk

for the whipped cream

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon Whiskey

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees
2. Combine the peaches, 1 cup sugar, and water in a saucepan and mix well
3.  Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes
4. Remove from the heat
5. Put the butter in a 3 quart baking dish and place in oven to melt
6. Mix remaining 1 cup sugar, flour, and milk slowly to prevent clumping
7. Pour mixture over melted butter
8. Do not stir
9. Spoon fruit on top, gently pouring in syrup
10. Batter will rise to top during baking
11. Bake for 30-45 minutes

for the whipped cream

1. Using a stand or hand mixer whip cream and sugar together until soft peaks form.
2. Add whiskey and vanilla mix until combined.

Enjoy! 

• Grilled Steak: For a classic steak off the grill, reach for a bold red wine like our 2019 Malbec. The soft tannins with notes of cedar and raspberry stand up well to the charred exterior and juicy interior of a perfectly grilled steak.
• Barbecue Ribs: The sweetness and tanginess of barbecue sauce on ribs call for a special wine to balance the flavors. Our 2021 Syrah features luscious dark fruits, hints of black pepper, and a touch of smoky oak, perfectly complementing the richness of the ribs.
• Pulled Pork: Pulled pork’s tender texture and smoky flavor pair wonderfully with a medium-bodied red wine such as our 2021 Reserve Merlot. With dark fruit flavors and subtle spice, this wine offers enough acidity to cut through the richness of the pork while enhancing its savory goodness.
• Brisket: Whether your BBQ brisket leans towards a sweeter Kansas City style, a tangy Carolina style, or a spicy Texas style, our Cabernet Zinfandel can adapt due to its fruit-forward nature.
• Grilled Chicken: For grilled chicken dishes, opt for a crisp and refreshing white wine like our famous White Cabernet. With bright acidity and aromas of peach and ripe strawberry, this wine provides a lovely contrast to the charred exterior of the chicken, making for a delightful pairing.
• Vegetable Kabobs: Vegetarian barbecue options like vegetable kabobs deserve a wine that accentuates their vibrant flavors. Our crisp 2023 Pinot Grigio can complement the grilled vegetables without overpowering them. The delicate oak tannins and firm stone fruit on the back palate make this wine a refreshing and satisfying pairing for any vegetable medley.

Wilson Creek’s Moscow Mule cocktail is a fun twist on an old favorite, easy to make and fun to drink!

The fun twist here from the classic Moscow Mule is the substitution of Jameson Whiskey instead of Tito’s Vodka and of course our beloved Brut Sparkling!

Serves:1 glass

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz Jameson Whiskey
• 3 oz Ginger Beer
• 3 oz Brut Sparkling
• 1 Lime (cut in half)
• Ice
• Fresh Mint Sprigs

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Fill a glass or copper mug (if you have them these work best) almost full with ice.
2. Pour in your Jameson, Brut, and Ginger Beer
3. Squeeze 1/2 your fresh Lime Juice
4. Add your Mint Springs
5. Use the other half of the Lime to Garnish