Tag Archives: Wine and Cookies

Tank 15: The Wine So Good, It Went Missing

Every great wine has a story. Some are aged in barrels for decades, others are crafted from vines kissed by morning fog—but Tank 15? Well, this one vanished before it ever left the cellar.

Let’s rewind to 2009. We had just crushed a beautiful batch of Zinfandel grapes—big, bold, jammy, and promising. The wine found its temporary home in, you guessed it, Tank 15. Back then, it didn’t even have a name. It was just “that Zinfandel in Tank 15”…but oh, was it something special.

It didn’t take long for word to get around the winery. Like a well-kept not-so-secret, staff members began sneaking down after hours—wine glasses in hand—to “check on its progress” (and, let’s be honest, show it off a bit). Whether it was to impress a friend, sneak a taste, or just admire the beauty of a Zin in the making, Tank 15 became the unofficial it spot on the property. We bragged about it. We bonded over it. We even debated the perfect food pairings for it (spoiler: BBQ anything).

Then one day… it was gone.

Panic set in. Confusion. Accusations. Had someone bottled it all in the dead of night? Was it secretly released without our knowing? Was the staff really that thirsty?

Turns out, the winemaker had simply moved the wine to another tank—routine stuff, really—but no one told the rest of us. The disappearance only deepened our affection. That nameless Zin from Tank 15 had already become a legend.

And so, the name stuck. Tank 15 was born—not just as a wine, but as a moment in Wilson Creek history.

Today, Tank 15 continues its legacy in our lineup, with the 2022 vintage bursting with the same bold, juicy character that made it famous in the first place. Crafted with Zinfandel grapes grown in Lodi, it’s a fruit-forward, spice-kissed stunner with rich berry notes, hints of black pepper, and a smooth, smoky finish.

Perfect Pairings:

Whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner at home or throwing a backyard feast, Tank 15 is a foodie’s best friend. Here are some top-notch pairings to make your bottle shine:

• BBQ Ribs – Sweet and smoky meats bring out the Zin’s juicy fruit and spice.

• Spicy Italian Sausage Pizza – A classic match for the wine’s bold profile.

• Pulled Pork Sandwiches – Especially with tangy slaw or a zesty BBQ sauce.

• Grilled Portobello Mushrooms – A great vegetarian option that highlights the earthy undertones.

• Dark Chocolate with Sea Salt – For dessert lovers, this contrast is rich and decadent.

So the next time you open a bottle, raise a glass to Tank 15—the wine that had us all sneaking into the cellar and believing (just for a second) in wine-based magic tricks.

Shop 2022 Tank 15

https://www.wilsoncreekwinery.com/product/2022-tank-15

P.S. Don’t worry—it won’t disappear on you. Probably.

Temecula’s beloved winery turns heads with cutting-edge environmental practices and community-driven legacy

In a major win for sustainable agriculture and family-owned business, Wilson Creek Winery has been named the recipient of the 2025 Green/Sustainability Award by the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) Orange County Chapter.

The honor—announced at ACG OC’s 30th Annual Awards Gala—recognizes a standout company that’s doing more than just reducing its footprint. Wilson Creek’s unique and science-driven regenerative agriculture program has made the Temecula Valley winery a model for environmental innovation in California’s wine industry.

“This award is more than recognition—it’s a reminder that we can build a successful business by healing the land, not just using it,” said Bill Wilson, Owner and CEO of Wilson Creek Winery, who accepted the award with members of his team. “We believe that healthy soil equals healthy grapes, which leads to exceptional wine—and a better future for all of us.”

Why It Matters: A Deeper Commitment to the Planet

While many wineries have adopted sustainable practices, Wilson Creek has gone further—implementing a holistic, data-driven regenerative program that includes cover crops, compost testing, insect biodiversity tracking, soil health monitoring, and even rotational sheep grazing. One of their showcase blocks has seen dramatic results: higher yields, reduced disease pressure, and improved grape quality, all while restoring vineyard biodiversity.

Investing in the Next Generation of Growers

In addition to transforming their own vineyard, Wilson Creek is actively helping to shape the future of regenerative farming in the region. The winery is leading the Temecula Valley High School Regenerative Agriculture Program, mentoring students and providing hands-on training in living soil practices, integrated pest management, and sustainable vineyard operations.

“Our goal is to help create the next wave of winegrowers and ag leaders who understand that sustainability is science, not just philosophy,” said Greg Pennyroyal, Vineyard Manager.

A Family Legacy Rooted in Stewardship

Founded in 2000 by Gerry and Rosie Wilson, Wilson Creek Winery has grown into a thriving 90-acre estate known for its award-winning wines, weekend concerts, weddings, and charity events. The Wilson family’s culture of celebration and care extends far beyond the tasting room—it’s rooted in stewardship, integrity, and a genuine commitment to the community and the land.

From the ACG Awards Committee:
“Wilson Creek Winery exemplifies the spirit of this award category—combining innovation, environmental integrity, and deep community impact. Their story is one of purpose, progress, and possibility.”

Wilson Creek’s recognition is a testament to what’s possible when agriculture, science, and heart come together. It’s not just about growing grapes—it’s about regenerating the land for generations to come.

• Grilled Steak: For a classic steak off the grill, reach for a bold red wine like our 2020 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 2022 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 Viognier 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.

Every Earth Day, we’re reminded of the importance of preserving the land we love—for ourselves, our children, and future generations. But here at Wilson Creek Winery, we believe that stewardship of the earth should be a daily mindset, not a once-a-year reflection. That’s why we’ve committed to something bigger than sustainability. We’re going regenerative.

Regenerative agriculture is a bold, holistic farming philosophy that doesn’t just aim to “do less harm”—it strives to heal. It’s about restoring vitality to our soil, increasing biodiversity, improving the resilience of our vineyard ecosystem, and creating a long-term positive impact that ripples far beyond our property lines.

And we’re proud to be leading the charge in the Temecula Valley.

What Is Regenerative Agriculture?

While traditional sustainable farming focuses on reducing chemical use and preserving resources, regenerative agriculture goes further by actively rebuilding the health of the vineyard from the ground up—starting with the soil. Healthy soil is alive. It teems with microbes, fungi, and organisms that work in harmony with the vines to naturally retain water, cycle nutrients, and boost plant resilience.

At Wilson Creek, our regenerative journey includes:

• Building Soil Health & Capturing Carbon: Through composting, cover cropping, and reduced tillage, we nurture the microbial life beneath our feet and help pull carbon from the atmosphere back into the soil.
• Water Conservation: We use precision irrigation and soil moisture sensors to deliver just the right amount of water to each block—vital in a drought-prone state like California.
• Biodiversity in Action: Sheep graze through the vineyards naturally mowing grass and fertilizing the soil, while owl boxes and beneficial insect habitats help us control pests without harsh chemicals.
• Eliminating Synthetic Inputs: Our team avoids chemical fertilizers and synthetic pesticides that degrade the ecosystem, opting instead for organic alternatives and integrated pest management practices that work in sync with nature

Meet the Steward of Our Vines:

Greg Pennyroyal

Our Vineyard Manager, Greg Pennyroyal, is a nationally recognized voice in regenerative farming. With a background in botanical medicine and ecosystem management, Greg brings a systems-thinking approach to the vineyard. His belief? That truly great wine starts long before harvest—it begins with living, thriving soil and a healthy, balanced vineyard.

Greg has helped lead research projects with the USDA and NRCS, started a Regenerative Agriculture Club at Temecula Valley High School, and regularly trains vineyard workers on regenerative methods. His passion is contagious, and it has set the tone for our entire viticulture program.

A Taste of Regeneration: Block 9 Cabernet

This year, we’re proud to release our very first vintage from a fully regenerative block—the Block 9 Cabernet Sauvignon. Grown without synthetic inputs and managed with regenerative techniques from start to finish, this wine is proof that what’s better for the land can also be better in the glass.

Block 9 Cabernet showcases rich notes of blackberry, cedar, and chocolate-covered espresso beans. But it’s more than a wine—it’s a story in a bottle. A story of care, science, and a little bit of magic from Mother Nature.

Giving Back to the Valley

We know that one vineyard can’t change the world on its own, which is why we’re also sharing our knowledge with others. Through our Small Wine Growers Association and ongoing educational partnerships, we’re empowering other local farmers to adopt regenerative practices and make Temecula Valley a model for responsible, climate-resilient winemaking.

We believe that true leadership means lifting others up—and that the health of our entire wine community is stronger when we learn and grow together.

Explore More: Our Regenerative Agriculture Page

Curious to learn more about what we’re doing and how you can support regenerative agriculture in wine country? Visit our new webpage dedicated to all things regenerative:

 wilsoncreekwinery.com/regenerative-ag/

There you’ll find more details, behind-the-scenes photos, and updates on how our practices are evolving.

Cheers to Earth Day—And Every Day

At Wilson Creek Winery, we’re raising a glass not just to great wine, but to a better future. Regenerative agriculture is about more than farming—it’s about healing. It’s about hospitality with heart, rooted in responsibility. This Earth Day, we invite you to celebrate with us and become part of a movement that’s growing deeper roots every day.

Happy Earth Day—from our vineyard to your glass.

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!