WINE-GATING
Ah, fall: Days are a little shorter, mornings and evenings a little cooler and pumpkin spice permeates everything from frothy lattes to muffins and sweet breads, to flickering tabletop candles. But nothing says, “fall is here” like the start of the NFL game season. With the game season comes parking-lot parties, backyard barbecues and tailgating; burgers and brats on the grill and ice cold beer from the cooler. Well, this season we’re challenging you to think outside the cooler and do a little wine-gating instead. You might be surprised at how well a glass of Lodi wine goes with your game day fare. Here are three ways to score big at your next wine-gate:
MALEY BROTHERS 2014 LODI CHARDONNAY
This crisp straw-colored Chardonnay envelops the mouth with green apple, lemon curd, oranges and ripe apricots with whispers of neutral oak. Score an extra point at your next parking-lot party by pairing a glass of this nicely-balanced, citrusy wine with fried chicken and pasta salad. ($17)
M2 WINES 2013 LODI “EMTWOPOINTONE” ZINFANDEL
Loaded with ripe raspberries and blackberries and accented with hints of spicy pepper and clove, this wine is bold enough to tackle anything coming off of the grill, from sticky barbecued beef or pork ribs to grilled quesadillas stockpiled with black beans, corn and melted Jack cheese. ($22) M2Wines.com
ROBERT LAUCHLAND VINEYARDS 2012 LODI “JUBILEE” CABERNET SAUVIGNON
French oak aging gives this full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon its creamy texture. Explosive flavors of red cherry, plum, currant and spices go the extra yard alongside heartier fare like chuck steak chili topped with Fritos® and cheesesteak sandwiches. ($24) LauchLandWine.com
WHERE TO FIND THESE WINES & MERCHANDISE:
Pick up all three of these Lodi wines from the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center,
2545 W. Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) 365-0621.
Open daily 10am-5pm.
LodiWine.com