Tag Archives: Jingle Juice

A fabulous addition to a cold winter evening. A holiday tradition of ours, this wassail will add a glow to your festivities & make family & friends feel welcome.

• 4 cups apple cider
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 navel orange (zested and juiced)
• 4 chole cloves
• 3-star anise
• 4 navel oranges (pealed for garnish)
• 1 Bottle of VS Cabernet Zinfandel

Directions for Wassail: Combine cider, wine, cinnamon sticks, zest, juice, cloves, and star anise in a crockpot on low for 4-6 hours or in a large saucepan, bring to a boil and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes.  Pour into your favorite mug and garnish with an orange peel.

Add a Sparkling Sangria Topper!

Directions for Chilled Mulled Sangria Sparkling:

4 oz. chilled mulled Zinfandel and 2 oz chilled Wilson Creek Sparkling Sangria.

Serve in your favorite champagne flute or wine glass and garnish with a fresh orange slice, lime slice, optional add-in’s include fresh blueberries, pomegranate, and cranberries.

A great gift option for the holidays! Winter Mulled Wine 2 pk Special.

Mulled Wine Duo with our VS Cabernet Zinfandel & Sangria Sparkling topper is a Winter delight! Two ways to enjoy our mulled wine recipe. Hot or Chilled. Includes: Wine and recipe for your fun and festive party.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year—when cookies come fresh out of the oven and wine flows as freely as holiday cheer! While Santa might prefer a plate of cookies with a glass of milk, we think wine is a much better companion for your holiday sweets.  

At Wilson Creek Winery, we believe that wine has a magical way of enhancing the flavors of your favorite Christmas treats. That’s why we’ve created this ultimate guide to pairing our signature wines with classic holiday cookies. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, baking with the kids, or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, these pairings will bring a whole new level of holiday joy to your table.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or indulging in a quiet moment by the tree, these pairings will add an extra sparkle to your season.

Let’s pair some cookies and pop some corks!

We didn’t stop at S’mores! Here’s how to pair Wilson Creek wines with other Christmas cookie classics:

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies & Cabernet/Zinfandel

The rich, indulgent flavor of chocolate meets the cool, festive snap of peppermint in these holiday classics. To match their bold personality, our Zinfandel steps in with its vibrant notes of dark berries and subtle spice. Together, this pairing feels like a winter wonderland for your taste buds.

Chocolate Chip Cookies & Petite Sirah

Classic chocolate chip cookies deserve a wine that enhances their timeless charm. Enter our Petite Sirah, with its bold blackberry and plum flavors that complement the cookie’s gooey chocolate goodness. The rich tannins of the wine create a balance that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious.

Jam Thumbprint Cookies & Merlot

Sweet, fruity jam thumbprints are a holiday staple, and our Merlot is their perfect partner. With its soft, velvety texture and notes of ripe cherry and plum, this wine enhances the fruitiness of the jam while adding depth to every bite.

Chocolate Biscuits & Decadencia Port

Rich chocolate biscuits pair seamlessly with our Decadencia Port, a dessert wine that’s as luxurious as it sounds. The velvety, chocolate-infused notes of the port elevate the cookie’s deep cocoa flavor for a decadent holiday treat.

Shortbread Cookies & Almond Sparkling Wine

Shortbread cookies are simple, buttery perfection, and they shine even brighter when paired with the effervescent elegance of our Almond Sparkling Wine. The slight nuttiness and refreshing bubbles of the wine perfectly balance the cookie’s richness, making this a crowd-pleaser for holiday gatherings.

Gingerbread Cookies & Riesling

The cozy spices of gingerbread cookies—cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg—deserve a bright and zesty partner like our Riesling. Its refreshing sweetness cuts through the spice, creating a balanced pairing that’s undeniably festive.

Peanut Butter Pretzel Cookies & Angelica Cream Sherry

Salty, sweet, and oh-so-addictive, peanut butter pretzel cookies meet their match in our Angelica Cream Sherry. The creamy, nutty notes of the wine highlight the cookie’s flavor, while its smooth finish balances the salty crunch.

There’s no better way to celebrate the season than with delicious cookies and perfectly paired wines. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a quiet moment of indulgence, these pairings are sure to bring extra magic to your holiday celebrations. Shop Your Favorite Wines Today: Visit our online store to find all the wines in this pairing guide. Don’t wait—stock up now so you’re ready for every holiday occasion!

Let’s Bake: S’mores Cookie Recipe

Homemade Gooey Smores Cookies with Marshmallows Chocolate and Graham Crackers

Nothing says cozy like the gooey, chocolatey, marshmallow goodness of S’mores—now in cookie form! Follow this easy recipe to whip up a batch of holiday magic:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup salted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups mini marshmallows, divided
• 2 cups graham crackers, broken into small pieces, divided (about 9-10 crackers)
• 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 Hershey’s bars, broken into pieces

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar for 2–3 minutes until creamy.
3. Add eggs and vanilla and mix until combined.
4. Add flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt, mixing until just incorporated.
5. Stir in 1 1/2 cups graham crackers, 1 1/2 cups marshmallows, and both types of chocolate chips. Mix until evenly distributed.
6. Scoop 2–3 tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven.
7. Top each cookie with additional marshmallows, graham cracker pieces, and Hershey’s chocolate. Bake for another 1–2 minutes until cookies are golden and marshmallows are slightly toasted. (Use the broil setting for extra marshmallow toastiness—just keep a close eye!)
8. Cool for 2–3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Storage Tip: These cookies stay fresh in an airtight container for 4–5 days.

Pair Your S’mores Cookies with Almond Sparkling Wine

Now, let’s talk wine! The gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate, and crispy graham crackers of these S’mores cookies call for a wine that’s equally celebratory. Our Almond Sparkling Wine is a perfect match, with its light sweetness and nutty undertones that complement the cookie’s nostalgic campfire flavors.

Cheers to the Sweetest Season Yet!
From all of us at Wilson Creek Winery, we wish you a holiday season filled with love, laughter, and, of course, fantastic wine. 🍷🎄

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.

Wilson Creek Sparkling Rosé

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.

2023 Albariño

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.

2020 Cinsault

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 

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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 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

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!