Memorial Day is just around the corner, and it’s time to fire up the grill and celebrate with friends and family. Hamburgers and hot dogs are classic BBQ staples but what if you’re looking to elevate your grilling game? We’ve got just the menu, with some savory dishes perfectly paired with our single vineyard Zinfandels. From light-bodied to big and bold, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into some fun and flavorful pairings that will make your Memorial Day BBQ unforgettable.
On the Lighter Side: The Refreshing Starter
Known for their bright acidity and juicy red fruit flavors, our zins are an excellent choice for off-the-grill fare. For a refreshing starter, try pairing our Black Chicken Zinfandel with grilled shrimp skewers. Marinate the shrimp in a citrusy, garlic-laced sauce and grill until just charred. The zesty marinade will complement the wine’s vibrant fruitiness, creating a harmonious combination. This pairing is perfect for kicking off your BBQ in style.
A Crowd-Pleaser: The Flavorful Main Course
Looking for wines that strike a balance between fruit and spice? Medium-bodied Zinfandels like Grande Vineyard Zinfandel and RW Moore Vineyard Zinfandel offer versatility to a variety of dishes. If you can’t pass up the opportunity for a great Memorial Day Burger (and who could blame you!?), we love a good smash burger with a grilled strawberry and arugula salad. The juicy sweetness of ripe strawberries and the peppery bite of arugula complement the wine’s berry and spice notes perfectly. A few drizzles of olive oil and balsamic vinegar tie the flavors together, enhancing the wine’s complexity without overpowering it. This fresh and vibrant pairing is ideal for a warm Memorial Day afternoon.
Grilling Glory: The Bold Finale
For those who love a wine with big, bold flavors, a full-bodied Zinfandel like Varozza Vineyard Zinfandel is the way to go. These wines boast intense dark fruit, peppery spice, and a robust finish. To stand up to such a powerhouse wine, serve up a hearty plate of BBQ beef ribs. The smoky, tender meat and tangy barbecue sauce are a match made in heaven with the wine’s rich fruit and bold tannins. Nothing says Memorial Day BBQ like something hot off the grill and this pairing is sure to be the star of your gathering. Your Memorial Day Menu: Above and Beyond This Memorial Day, go beyond the usual and treat your guests to a gourmet experience with these Zinfandel pairings. Whether you opt for a light-bodied starter, a medium-bodied main course, or a big and bold finale, your gathering will be the talk of the town. Not hosting this year? Bringing a few bottles of wine like Black Chicken Zinfandel, Valsecchi Vineyard Zinfandel, Varozza Vineyard Zinfandel, or Royal Punishers Petite Sirah is the perfect hostess gift. It’s a thoughtful gesture that adds to the celebration, ensuring you’re the guest everyone is happy to see.
Cheers to delicious food, great wine, and wonderful memories! Happy grilling and sipping!