Grenache is perfect for a party. Our menu features great matches for both its forms ― red and dry rosé. Pour everyone a glass of each and watch the fun begin.
The menu
Pan-roasted chicken on bacon mushroom ragout
Be very generous with the cracked pepper on the chicken; it makes a wonderful flavor bridge to the wine.
Lightly sautéed cherry tomatoes with fresh basil.
You'll have extra aioli to serve with appetizer vegetables if you like. We chose radishes and blanched broccolini.
Rustic pear tarts with crème fraîche
Fresh pears and purchased puff pastry add up to an incredibly easy seasonal dessert.
Our wine picks
DRY ROSÉ
Beckmen Purisima Mountain Vineyard Grenache Rosé 2007 (Santa Ynez Valley; $18). Tangy raspberries, lemon-lime, and minerals.
Bonny Doon Vin Gris de Cigare 2007 (California; $15). Crisp wild berries, orange blossoms, and spice.
Robert Hall Winery Hall Ranch "Rosé de Robles" 2007 (Paso Robles; $14). With a bit more Syrah than Grenache in the blend, this is a big, tangy, spicy rosé, with wild cherries, citrus, and a minerally finish.
Terre Rouge "Vin Gris D'Amador" 2006 (Sierra Foothills; $16). Mourvèdre takes the lead here, followed by Grenache. Crisp and lively sour cherries blended with lemon-lime zest, for a kick of pleasant bitterness. Intense and refreshing.
