The Perfect Wine for Backyard Cookouts! Tanglerose Backyard Red!

It's Wine Wednesday, and this week features a fantastic red wine that is a blend of Zinfandel, Merlot and other bold reds! The blend of Tanglerose Backyard Red makes it perfect for gatherings as it satisfies so many pallets!

 

This wine’s brilliant inky garnet color hints at the flavorful red that awaits you. A blend of roughly 1/3 Zinfandel 1/3 Merlot with other red varietals, it exudes aromas of graphite, black earth, black pepper and tree bark all over emerging black fruit nose. Tannic and earthy with juicy purple and black fruit emerging via a soft mouthfeel. Beautiful long finish.

Try it with any meat fresh of the grill! Want to really "wow," your friends? Grill pork steaks and add this yummy Plum Salsa!  Or, get some pulled pork and add this salsa for a yummy sandwich!  It's easy to make:

1. Seed and finely chop six jalepeno peppers (Be careful, these have oils that can burn! Wash hands immediately after handling or wear gloves!)
2. Pit and chop nine plums
3. Chop one medium size red onion
4. Combine all in skillet with a couple tablespoons of oil (enough so they don't stick or burn)
5. Stir in about 1.5 teaspoons ginger and 1 cup of honey (more or less to taste)
6. Keep stirring until it is all combined and warm (DO NOT LET IT BOIL)
7. Serve with your choice of pork!

Or, be like me and have the Tanglerose Backyard Red with a nice juicy cheeseburger fresh off the grill!  Summer Cookout Heaven!

4th of July Wine and Food

I love the 4th of July! Who doesn't? Fireworks, cookouts, swimming (well, maybe not this year if you live in Michigan), boating, family, friends, fun, and freedom.  If you're planning on some fun this 4th, don't stress about the food and wine. It really is easy!

For example, this simple trifle would go perfectly with Calamity Sue Riesling, Tanglerose Sweet American Rose, and Fissata Red!

Mr. Food makes this recipe simple!

What You'll Need:

• 1 (16-ounce) pound cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 quart strawberries, sliced, with 1 cup reserved
• 1 pint blueberries, with 1/2 cup reserved    
• 1 (16-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed

What To Do:

1. In a trifle bowl or large glass serving bowl, layer half the pound cake, strawberries, blueberries, and whipped topping. Repeat layers once more then garnish with reserved berries in a flag pattern, as shown.
    
2. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Planning a backyard cookout?  Don't forget the wine!!!!! Try Puzzle Pieces and Steeple Street Chardonnay for the snacking/appetizer part and then move on to Tanglerose Backyard Red, Woodvale Estates Merlot, and Bentgate Cabernet Sauvignon once the meat starts coming off the grill!

Whatever delicious pairings you use this Fun Holiday, be sure to cherish every moment of the festivities. Be safe, and have fun!