The art of wine pairings can be rather complex, but it’s also a ton of fun.
Although you can take the pairing process quite seriously, there is plenty of room for playful experiences, especially when hosting a casual tasting with friends. So whether you want to impress someone who knows the ins and outs of wine or want to have a blast with your closest pals, this guide will help you create the perfect menu.
The spotlight is on Redneck Vineyards Trumped wine, a bold Merlot that is far from “fake news” — it’s the real deal.
A Closer Look at Redneck Vineyards Trumped Wine
Trumped is a 2019 Merlot by Redneck Vineyards. This bold, rich red gives way to black cherry, smokey French oak, and dried rose petals, creating a complex aroma. This unique combination is warm and inviting, encouraging you to take that first sip, followed by another.
Trumped is medium to full-bodied on the palate, yet soft and glossy. It falls somewhere in the middle of the red wine spectrum. When pairing dishes and snacks, you’ll want to pay close attention to this characteristic. This wine could easily overpower a light and delicate dish, muting the flavors.
The wine’s medium acidity and tannin levels create a long finish, allowing you to enjoy all it offers long after you’re hit with the initial flavor profile.
Check out this lineup of premium Californian wines, no matter how savvy your palate is.
The Basics of Pairing Food With Trumped
Merlot wine pairs well with a wide variety of foods because it falls on the red wine spectrum. For example, merlot typically pairs well with chicken and lightly-spiced red meat. For this reason, it’s an excellent wine to have on hand because of its versatility.
Of course, not all merlots are created equal; some are lighter or more full-bodied than others. In the case of Trumped, it’s a medium-to-full-bodied wine that can handle robust, rustic flavors — whether it be a steak with mushrooms, a casserole, roasted vegetables, or a jambalaya.
The world is your oyster when it comes to a bottle of Trumped. However, oysters themselves are not the best choice. If you serve a plate of fresh oysters, opt for a lighter wine with bright acidity — Never A Dull Moment – 2018 Pinot Noir by Sweet Oaks is a safe bet.
So, ready to get started? You can’t go wrong with these four pairings.
Nibbles Board
Nothing beats a well-planned spread if you’re having a tasting party. Olives, meat, and cheese are all great choices.
- When selecting meats to pair with Trumped, opt for those high on flavor but low on spice. Salty, mild meats like soppressata, prosciutto, and mortadella will do the trick. These are just a few ideas, so get creative with your charcuterie spread.
- You have plenty of choices for cheese, ranging from a light creamy brie to sharp cheddar. Add a wide selection so you and your guests can mix things up. For example, slices of gorgonzola will offer a richness that pairs perfectly with merlot; a creamy spoonful of brie pairs well with merlot’s medium-to-full body; and the bold flavors of a sharp cheddar contrast beautifully with the smooth characteristics of merlot.
- Dot the board with all kinds of nibbly snacks, including olives, walnuts, figs, and a selection of crackers. You’ll look like you know what you’re doing — even if you don’t.
Other great appetizers to serve with Trumped include stuffed mushrooms and potato skins.
Meat Dishes — Take Your Pick
Whether you seek to find the perfect appetizer or main dish, merlot and lean meats go hand-in-hand, as do merlot and red meat. Although merlot and fish aren’t the best pairings, you are free to choose pork, beef, or chicken. So, the sky is the limit. When selecting the perfect recipe for your big evening or Sunday afternoon tasting, go for lightly spiced meats that won’t overshadow the fruity notes of Trumped.
Not sure which recipe to make? Here’s a tip — if there’s merlot in the recipe, it’s likely a winner. A beef stew is always an excellent choice. However, if you want to fancify your meal, this red wine reduction sauce will make any steak dish pop.
Other options include a smoked chicken and cheese tart with olives, juniper-rubbed roast duck with cherry jus, or meat lover’s pizza.
Cooking for Vegetarians?
Trumped is a heavenly choice for many types of meat, but the pairing options don’t end there. Merlot is also an excellent pairing with many vegetarian dishes, especially those full of earthy flavors. Roasted vegetables and mushrooms are always a great choice. Tomatoes and tomato-sauce dishes also work well.
If you want a simple but delicious vegetarian dish, go for veggie burgers, like this easy black bean burger or portobello mushroom burger. Another unique recipe is this vegan pastie with mushrooms and red wine. Finally, this merlot lentil bolognese or vegetarian stuffed acorn squash is a heartier dinner option.
Whether you go for roasted eggplant, vegan enchiladas, or green-lentil curry, there are endless possibilities.
Chocolate Mousse
Merlot wines are not generally a good match with desserts because they are too dry and rich. However, some desserts pair well with these characteristics, including a rich, not overly sweet chocolate dessert.
Pies with dark fruit flavors will also add to the Trumped tasting experience, as will this red wine cherry cobbler.
Let the Pairing Fun Begin
Redneck Vineyards Trumped wine is just the beginning of pairing possibilities.
Sure, choosing the right wine can be intimidating. However, when selecting from premium California wines, it’s nearly impossible to make the wrong choice.
Whether you’re on the hunt for an enticing chardonnay or a juicy zinfandel-syrah blend, this lineup has you covered. Browse our selection of exquisite wines today!