Nothing compares to the cozy feeling of burrowing under a blanket by a roaring fireplace on the coldest and darkest of winter nights. The coziness level increases exponentially when you have your favorite movie playing in the background, a hearty home-cooked meal in front of you, and a glass of red wine in-hand.
To make the most of your cold-weather red wine, be sure to serve alongside rich and meaty dishes that can fully bring out their bold flavors. Without further ado, grab some blankets and candles and get cozy — here are Byrd Vineyard’s wine pairings for cold winter nights.
2010 Byrd Merlot
A smooth wine with hints of red fruits and a long finish, our Merlot pairs beautifully with any hearty meal. Its soft tannins, fruit-forward flavors, and round body make this wine incredibly versatile. In fact, it would pair wonderfully with anything from chicken to red meat.
On a cold winter night, nothing beats a slow-cooked meal in the crockpot. Slow-cooker tacos with tender lamb, pork, or chicken would pair beautifully with a Merlot. Similarly, a white bean chili with chicken is as comforting on a chilly winter night as it is easy to throw together. Ladle into a bowl, light some candles, and pour a glass of Byrd Merlot — and you’ve got yourself an easy and cozy dinner.
Merlot also pairs amazingly with tomato-based Italian dishes. Its subtly sweet flavors bring out the richness in the sauce in dishes such as lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs, and chicken parmesan. Mellow Merlot also complements the umami flavors of mushrooms and creamy sauces. A wonderful dish to pair it with would be a creamy parmesan pasta with chicken and mushrooms or even a macaroni and cheese.
A cold night is a perfect night for some good-old-fashioned comfort food. A homemade pizza, chicken pot pie, or classic tomato soup and grilled cheese combo would taste amazing when paired with a glass of Byrd Merlot. The meal doesn’t have to be fancy or over-the-top to be delicious and comforting! Since our Merlot is so flexible and pairs well with practically any dish, follow your heart and pair with any comfort food you desire.
2010 Byrd Vineyard Mendocino Merlot
On the nose, vanilla and blackberry lead, and the palate follows with berry pie and ripe plum. The mouthfeel is refreshing, gentle even, and the tannins have softened considerably. Enjoy a medium to long finish that is silky.
2009 Byrd Cabernet Sauvignon
Big, bold Cabernet Sauvignon is a fan-favorite for a cold winter evening meal. With notes of vanilla, tobacco, and warm spices, it is the ultimate cozy winter wine. Just add snow-covered treetops outside, a crackling fireplace inside, and a hearty, meat-based dinner.
Layered and complex, Cabernet Sauvignon pairs extremely well with rich, creamy, and meaty dishes — the meatier the better. Whether a ribeye, sirloin, beef tenderloin, or roast beef, any cut of steak would be perfectly complemented by a savory Cabernet Sauvignon. Brisket, pot roast, or braised short ribs cooked in red wine are sure-fire favorites, as their luscious sauces complement the wine wonderfully. A hot bowl of beef stew would also do the trick, especially when seasoned with herby and umami flavors such as rosemary, mushrooms, and garlic.
Don’t shy away from the classics when pairing your Cabernet Sauvignon. A classic cheeseburger is composed of the two most popular elements to pair with Cabernet Sauvignon — meat and cheese. Whether you opt to grill a classic burger or add extra-special touches such as grilled mushrooms, crumbly blue cheese, or smoky BBQ sauce, the pairing is sure to be out of this world.
When considering side dishes, creamy mashed potatoes and garlic roasted vegetables such as carrots or brussel sprouts would be delectable selections. A creamy and rich macaroni and cheese wouldn’t hurt, either. Also, a cheese board filled with smoky gouda, herbed brie, and aged cheddar as an appetizer or for dessert would certainly pair well with the wine. On a chilly winter evening, there is no such thing as too much meat or cheese!
With aromas of red and black fruits, cocoa, and warm spices along with fine tannins, our 2009 Byrd Cabernet Sauvignon is something special to be enjoyed with friends, family, and delicious food. Grab some blankets and enjoy!
2009 Byrd Vineyard Mendocino Cabernet Sauvignon
With your first sip, baking spices leap to the front – nutmeg and cardamom. Blackberries, overripe raspberries, and a touch of boysenberry create a core that holds the frame up of this generous and balanced wine. The finish lingers but does not overstay it welcome.