Tag Archives: cocktails with vodka
Thanksgiving Wine Guide
Posted on November 5, 2024 in Wine & Food
As November settles in, the air turns crisp, holiday plans start taking shape, and we’re all reminded to embrace a spirit of gratitude. At Wilson Creek, we’re all about celebrating with friends, family, and of course, great wine! Whether you’re gathering around the Thanksgiving table or simply enjoying a cozy night in, we have the perfect wine pairings and delightful Sweet Treat Duos to elevate any moment.
Thanksgiving Wine Pairings Made Easy
Thanksgiving is the ultimate food holiday. With so many flavors at play – from savory stuffing to sweet cranberry sauce – finding the right wines to complement the feast can feel a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry; we’ve curated a selection of wines to match the star dishes of your Thanksgiving spread.
Perfect with: Roasted Turkey & Cranberry Sauce
Our Sparkling Rosé is a Thanksgiving favorite for its vibrant berry notes and refreshing finish. The bubbles and bright acidity cut through the richness of turkey, and the subtle sweetness complements tart cranberry sauce beautifully. It’s a festive choice that will add a little extra sparkle to your holiday meal.
Perfect with: Sweet Potato Casserole & Glazed Ham
The bright, citrusy notes of our 2023 Albariño bring a fresh, zesty balance to the richer flavors of sweet potato casserole and glazed ham. With a crisp acidity and hints of green apple and peach, this wine beautifully enhances the sweet and savory elements on your plate. Albariño’s light, refreshing character makes it an easy-going option for holiday meals that are both hearty and flavorful.
Perfect with: Herb Stuffing & Roasted Vegetables
Our 2020 Cinsault is a vibrant, lighter-bodied red that brings a lovely balance of red berry flavors and subtle spice to your Thanksgiving table. With its soft tannins and smooth finish, this wine complements the savory herbs in your stuffing and enhances the earthy flavors of roasted vegetables. It’s an elegant, approachable choice that pairs beautifully with a variety of holiday dishes, adding a touch of sophistication to your meal without overpowering the flavors.
After a big meal, dessert is a must! And we believe that dessert is best enjoyed with the perfect sweet wine pairing. This November, we’re excited to introduce two delightful Sweet Treat Duos that are as indulgent as they are delicious.
Sweet Treat Duo #1: Angelica & Almond Sparkling Wine
Perfect for: After-Dinner Sipping & Sweet Treats
Angelica, our luxurious dessert wine, is all about rich caramel and fig notes that linger on the palate. Paired with the light, slightly nutty Almond Sparkling Wine, you get a combination that’s both unique and unforgettable. Sip them side by side or alternate between the two – either way, it’s a treat that’ll satisfy your sweet tooth and then some. This duo is perfect for enjoying with a slice of pumpkin pie or a handful of roasted nuts.
Sweet Treat Duo #2: Decadencia & Sparkling Sangria
Perfect for: Chocolate Desserts & Fruity Finishes
Decadencia, our chocolate-infused Port, is pure heaven in a bottle. Paired with our fun and fruity Sparkling Sangria, this duo is an adventure in every sip. Decadencia’s rich cocoa notes make it ideal for pairing with chocolate desserts, while the Sparkling Sangria offers a light, refreshing contrast that’ll keep things from getting too heavy. This duo is a crowd-pleaser for any holiday gathering or casual night in.
Tips for Serving Wine this Thanksgiving
- Chill Your Whites & Bubbles: Serve your Sparkling Rosé, Almond Sparkling, and Albarino chilled for maximum enjoyment. Keep them in the fridge or a bucket of ice so they stay perfectly cool.
- Room Temp Reds: The Cinsault and Decadencia are best served at room temperature. Set them out about 30 minutes before dinner to allow the flavors to shine.
- Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different pairings. Every palate is unique, and part of the fun of Thanksgiving is discovering new flavor combinations with family and friends.
Give Thanks, Sip Wine, and Celebrate with Us
November is all about gratitude, and we’re beyond thankful for each of you – our Wilson Creek family! Whether you’re a regular visitor, a Wine Club Member, or simply a fan from afar, your support and love for our wines make every day at Wilson Creek special. This month, we invite you to stop by the winery, pick up your Thanksgiving wine essentials, and try our Sweet Treat Duos.
From our family to yours, here’s to a holiday filled with joy, laughter, and plenty of good wine. Cheers to a wonderful Thanksgiving season!
Thanksgiving Pie & Wine Pairings
Posted on November 5, 2024 in Wine & Food
Thanksgiving is already here! With so much to be thankful for, we wanted to take time to thank all of our Wine Club Members and Guests who enhance our lives everyday! You are the reason we love bringing you fine wine, delicious cuisine, and good times!
To celebrate you all and all the things we have to be thankful for, Wilson Creek put together a few wine pairings to go with your favorite Thanksgiving Pies! Because nothing says celebration like sweet treats and bubbly!
Apple Pie
Brut Sparkling
Pumpkin Pie
Almond Sparkling
Pecan Pie
Angelica Cream Sherry
Key Lime Pie
Coconut Nui Sparkling or Yes Dear Chardonnay
Lemon Meringue
Rose Sparkling or VS White Cabernet
Cherry Pie
Sangria Sparkling or VS Cabernet-Zinfandel
Chocolate Cream Pie
Almond Sparkling or Decadencia Chocolate Port
Blueberry Pie
Sangria Sparkling or VS Cabernet-Zinfandel
Peach Cobbler
Brut Sparkling or Viognier
Honoring the Angels of Route 91: A Legacy of Love and Healing
Posted on October 2, 2024 in Giving Back
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.
A Spooky Pairing: Wine Pairings for a Spooky Halloween Celebration
Posted on September 30, 2024 in Wine & Food
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
Harvest Season Unveiled: The Inner Workings of Wilson Creek Winery
Posted on September 27, 2024 in About
Behind the Scenes with the Winemaking Team at Wilson Creek Winery During Harvest
As the sun rises over the Temecula Valley, a sense of excitement fills the air at Wilson Creek Winery. It’s harvest season, the most exhilarating time of year for our winemaking team. Behind every bottle of Wilson Creek wine is a dedicated team working tirelessly to bring you the best flavors and experiences. Today, we’re taking you behind the scenes to show you what harvest is all about and why it’s so crucial to creating the wines you love.
Before the first grape is picked, months of preparation go into ensuring a successful harvest. Our winemaking team, led by Kristina Fillippi, starts by monitoring the vineyard’s progress throughout the growing season. Using cutting-edge technology alongside traditional techniques, the team carefully tracks grape ripeness, sugar levels, and overall vine health. This data-driven approach allows us to decide the perfect time to harvest each grape variety, ensuring optimal flavor and quality.
Grape Picking: Hand-Harvested for Quality
We believe that quality wine starts with quality grapes. We believe that it starts in the vineyard, and that’s why we are fully committed to our regenerative agriculture practices. By nurturing the vines with sustainable techniques, we ensure the healthiest and most flavorful grapes. Hand-harvesting is a vital part of this process. Hand-picking allows us to be selective, choosing only the ripest, healthiest grapes. Our skilled staff picks through when the temperature is cooler, which helps maintain the grape’s freshness and quality.
Once the grapes are harvested, they’re immediately brought to our crush pad. Here, the winemaking process truly begins. The grapes are sorted, de-stemmed, and gently crushed to release their juice. This juice, combined with the grape skins, seeds, and stems, is then transferred into fermentation tanks.
After fermentation, the next step is pressing, where the juice is separated from the solid grape material. For red wines, this is done after a period of maceration to extract color, tannins, and flavor. For white wines, pressing occurs immediately after crushing to keep the juice light and fresh.
The pressed juice is then transferred to barrels or tanks for aging. This is where our winemaking expertise truly shines. Each wine has its own aging process, tailored to enhance its unique characteristics. Whether it’s aging in oak barrels to impart subtle flavors of vanilla and spice or in stainless steel tanks to maintain crispness and freshness, every decision is made with the final wine in mind.
One of the final steps in the winemaking process is blending, where the winemaker combines different lots or varieties of wine to create the perfect balance of flavors, aromas, and textures. This step requires a refined palate, and a deep understanding of how different wines interact with each other.
Once the blend is perfected, it’s time for bottling. We take great care in ensuring that each bottle is filled and sealed with precision. Quality control is paramount, and every bottle is inspected before it’s ready to be labeled and shared with our guests.
Celebrating the Harvest: A Time of Gratitude
Harvest season at Wilson Creek Winery is more than just hard work—it’s a celebration of everything that makes our winery special. It’s a time when our winemaking team’s passion and dedication come to life in every bottle. From early mornings in the vineyard to late nights in the cellar, every member of our team plays a vital role in creating the wines you know and love.
As Kristina puts it, “Harvest is about gratitude. Gratitude for the land, for the vines, for the team, and for the opportunity to share our wines with the world. Each bottle is a testament to the hard work and heart that goes into every step of the process.”
Join Us at Wilson Creek Winery
Interested in seeing the winemaking process firsthand? Visit us during harvest season to experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of Wilson Creek Winery. Our team is always excited to share our passion for winemaking with our guests. From vineyard tours to tastings, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the care and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle.
Wilson Creek Winery’s Regenerative Agriculture Success: A New Era for Our Vineyard and Wines
Posted on September 5, 2024 in Wine 101
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Compost Testing: In partnership with Abbott Pharmaceuticals and CR&R Waste Management, we tested various compost levels and application strategies to enhance soil health.
- Ant Control Research: We completed a year-long study with UC Irvine to develop seaweed-based natural alternatives for controlling Argentine ants.
- 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.
- 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.
- Grazing Sheep: We’ve introduced grazing sheep into our vineyards to enhance microbial diversity and soil health naturally.
Watermelon Sangria
Posted on July 29, 2024 in Recipes
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!
- 1 Large watermelon (seedless if you can)
- 1 (750-ml) bottle of Watermelon Sparkling, chilled
- 2 c. white rum
- 1 c. lime sparkling water
- 1/3 c. lime juice
- 2 lemons, thinly sliced
- 2 c. assorted fresh or frozen fruit, such as pineapple, blueberries, and strawberries
- Slice off the top third of the watermelon lengthwise (set aside and save for later use). On the large half, score fruit with a knife and scoop out the watermelon and transfer to blender.
- Blend watermelon until smooth. (If desired, strain seeds.)
- Add chilled wine, rum, lime sparkling water, and lime juice and stir until combined, then add limes and fruit.
- Refrigerate until chilled, about 2 hours, then serve.
Stars, Stripes, and Bomb Pops
Posted on July 3, 2024 in Recipes
Dive into the ultimate summer refreshment with our Bomb Pop Sparkling Drink, a vibrant and playful drink that combines the tropical essence of our Coconut Sparkling, the crisp elegance of our Brut Sparkling, and the juicy sweetness of our Watermelon Sparkling. This delightful drink is taken to the next level with the addition of a classic Bomb Pop popsicle, adding a nostalgic touch and a burst of color for your Fourth of July Celebration! From backyard BBQs to dazzling fireworks shows lighting up the night sky there are so many ways to celebrate! Grab your favorite Wilson Creek Sparkling, add a festive Bomb Pop Popsicle, and cheers to celebrating our nation’s spirit in the most deliciously patriotic way possible!
INGREDIENTS
- Watermelon Sparkling
- Coconut Nui Sparkling
- Brut Sparkling
- Bomb Pop Original Popsicle
INSTRUCTIONS
- Grab your Sparkling Wine of choice (or combine all 3)
- Add the Bomb Pop Popsicle
- Stir
- Enjoy! As the popsicle melts it will add different flavors and keep your wine chilled.
Ways to Expand Your Wine Knowledge
Posted on June 19, 2024 in Wine 101
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
Peach Cobbler with Whiskey Whipped Cream
Posted on June 17, 2024 in Recipes
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
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees
- Combine the peaches, 1 cup sugar, and water in a saucepan and mix well
- Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes
- Remove from the heat
- Put the butter in a 3 quart baking dish and place in oven to melt
- Mix remaining 1 cup sugar, flour, and milk slowly to prevent clumping
- Pour mixture over melted butter
- Do not stir
- Spoon fruit on top, gently pouring in syrup
- Batter will rise to top during baking
- Bake for 30-45 minutes
for the whipped cream
- Using a stand or hand mixer whip cream and sugar together until soft peaks form.
- Add whiskey and vanilla mix until combined.
Enjoy!