Pinot Noir for January
Our weekend wine pick from Santa Maria Valley that's tailor-made for winter enjoyment.
Cambria Estate Winery “Julia’s Vineyard” 2010 Pinot Noir (Santa Maria Valley; $25)
This wine tastes tailor-made for winter enjoyment—especially for those times when you’re looking for the elegance and food-friendliness of a Pinot Noir, but want some heft in your glass, too. Enjoy deep, lush flavors of dark cherries, the vibrancy of strawberries, and a long, spicy finish—all delivered in a firm yet graceful package.
Yes, it’s a splurge, but in my experience, Pinot Noirs this good generally cost even more, and are a lot more difficult to find. Here’s a widely available choice that’s worth bringing out for an intimate dinner party.
Recipe Recommendations:
These winter-perfect dishes will flatter the Cambria Estates Winery “Julia’s Vineyard” Pinot Noir:
- Rosemary Apricot Pork Tenderloin
- Roasted Breast of Chicken with Mushrooms Duxelles and Herb Butter
- Hudson Valley Duck
- Beef Bourguignon
- Chile-Pomegranate Chicken Thighs
- Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
Relish wine and cocktails columnist Wini Moranville is the author of The Bonne Femme Cookbook: Simple, Splendid Food That French Women Cook Every Day.
Rosemary Apricot Pork Tenderloin
Preserves, rosemary and garlic glaze roasted pork tenderloin. Serve over creamy polenta with brussels sprouts.
Duck breasts, available frozen, make a nice change from other poultry.
A lightened-up version of a classic French beef stew.
Chile-Pomegranate Chicken Thighs
Ancho chili powder and pomegranate molasses make a spicy glaze for chicken.
