At Love Cork Screw, we believe that wine isn’t just a beverage—it’s a whole mood. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newbie, pairing the right wine with your meal can elevate your dining experience to new heights. Let’s dive into some easy and approachable food pairings for each of Love Cork Screw’s wines, along with fun, crowd-pleasing recipes to enhance your wine journey.
“Good Times Good Friends” Pinot Grigio
Flavor Profile: Crisp and refreshing with notes of green apple and citrus.
Perfect Pairings:
- Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: The zesty flavors of the chicken complement the wine’s acidity, creating a harmonious balance.
- Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Light pasta dishes with seafood enhance the fruity undertones of the Pinot Grigio.
Recipe Idea: Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix lemon juice, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the chicken breasts in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill over medium heat for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
- Serve hot and enjoy with a chilled glass of “Good Times Good Friends” Pinot Grigio.
“We’re Movin’ On Up” Cabernet Sauvignon
Flavor Profile: Bold and robust with rich dark fruit flavors and a hint of oak.
Perfect Pairings:
- BBQ Ribs: The smoky, savory flavors of barbecued meats are a match made in heaven with this Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Mushroom Stroganoff: For a vegetarian option, the earthy tones of mushrooms complement the depth of the wine.
Recipe Idea: Savory Mushroom Stroganoff
Ingredients:
- 2 cups assorted mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
- Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
- Pour in vegetable broth and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in sour cream, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Serve over egg noodles or rice, paired with a glass of “We’re Movin’ On Up” Cabernet Sauvignon.
“Head Over Heels” Sweet Riesling
Flavor Profile: Delightfully sweet with floral aromas and hints of peach.
Perfect Pairings:
- Spicy Thai Curry: The sweetness of the Riesling balances the heat, creating a pleasant contrast.
- Fresh Fruit Tart: Desserts with fresh fruits highlight the wine’s natural sweetness.
Recipe Idea: Spicy Thai Vegetable Curry
Ingredients:
- 1 can coconut milk
- 2 tbsp red curry paste
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- In a pot, bring coconut milk to a simmer.
- Stir in red curry paste until well combined.
- Add vegetables and cook until tender.
- Season with fish sauce if using.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve with jasmine rice.
- Enjoy alongside a chilled glass of “Head Over Heels” Sweet Riesling.
Flavor Profile: Light and crisp with notes of strawberry and melon.
Perfect Pairings:
- Grilled Salmon: The delicate flavors of the fish are enhanced by the rosé’s fruity profile.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil complement the wine’s refreshing character.
Recipe Idea: Classic Caprese Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Arrange tomato and mozzarella slices on a platter, alternating each slice.
- Tuck fresh basil leaves between slices.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze if using.
- Sprinkle on salt and pepper to taste and pair with your chilled “We Go High” Rosé
“Be The Light” Sauvignon Blanc
Flavor Profile: Bright and zesty with citrus and tropical fruit notes.
Perfect Pairings:
- Ceviche: The acidity of the Sauvignon Blanc enhances the fresh citrus and seafood flavors.
- Goat Cheese & Arugula Salad: The crispness of the wine cuts through the creaminess of the cheese, making for a refreshing bite.
Recipe Idea: Citrus Shrimp Ceviche
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Juice of 4 limes and 2 oranges
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Dice shrimp into small pieces and marinate in lime and orange juice for 30-45 minutes until shrimp turns opaque.
- Stir in onion, jalapeño, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
- Serve chilled with tortilla chips and a glass of “Be The Light” Sauvignon Blanc.
Flavor Profile: Sweet, jammy, and bursting with ripe grape flavors.
Perfect Pairings:
- Spicy BBQ Wings: The sweetness of the wine balances out the heat.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: A dessert-like pairing that enhances the fruity notes.
Recipe Idea: Spicy Honey BBQ Wings
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season wings with salt, pepper, and cayenne.
- Bake at 400°F for 30-35 minutes, turning halfway.
- Toss in BBQ sauce and honey before serving with a glass of “Hard Knock Life” Concord.
Flavor Profile: Lightly sparkling with peach, apricot, and floral notes.
Perfect Pairings:
- Fruity Charcuterie Board: The sweetness pairs beautifully with fresh fruits and creamy cheeses.
- Spicy Thai Noodles: The floral notes balance the bold flavors of Thai spices.
Recipe Idea: Sweet & Spicy Thai Noodles
Ingredients:
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 2 tbsp chopped peanuts
Instructions:
- Cook noodles according to package instructions.
- In a pan, sauté bell peppers and carrots until tender.
- Stir in soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes, then toss with noodles.
- Garnish with peanuts and enjoy with a chilled glass of “No More Drama” Moscato.
“The Morning After” Chardonnay
Flavor Profile: Smooth and buttery with hints of vanilla and baked apple.
Perfect Pairings:
- Creamy Lobster Mac & Cheese: The richness of the dish matches the buttery texture of the Chardonnay.
- Roast Chicken with Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A cozy, comforting pairing that brings out the warm, toasty notes of the wine.
Recipe Idea: Creamy Lobster Mac & Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
- In a saucepan, heat heavy cream and stir in cheese until melted.
- Add lobster, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toss with pasta and serve with a glass of “The Morning After” Chardonnay.
Happy Sipping
Pairing wine with food doesn’t have to be intimidating. With Love Cork Screw, every sip is an experience, and every meal is an opportunity to enjoy the simple pleasures of wine. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or having a quiet night in, these easy pairings will help you elevate your wine game effortlessly. Cheers to great wine, good food, and unforgettable moments!
Looking for more inspiration? Browse our full selection of Love Cork Screw bundles and gifts here and start pairing like a pro!
