Embark on a global taste exploration to enhance your Gary Farrell wine journey with these inspired and unique food pairing ideas to complement our single vineyard designate Pinot Noir & Chardonnay.

Olivet Lane Vineyard Chardonnay –  Za’atar seasoned Halibut or Hummus with Za’atar

Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend made up of fragrant dried herbs, sesame seeds and sumac, which brings a tangy, citrus-like flavor to the party. It pairs perfectly with the vibrant, lemony notes of the Olivet Lane Chardonnay, so topping it on something fairly neutral like flaky white fish or hummus allows the flavors of the wine come through like sunshine on a rainy day!

Rochioli Vineyard Pinot Noir – Temaki Sushi (Hand Rolls) or furikake rice

Rochioli is known for its wonderful, savory, umami-filled palate. So, it makes sense that pairing it with something so beautifully briny like seaweed is a match made in sushi heaven. We love a Temaki roll because it’s got an abundant nori wrap making sure you taste the ocean in every bite. Furikake is a traditional Japanese rice seasoning made from dried seaweed and bonito flakes among other things, and when topped on rice and paired with the Rochioli Pinot Noir, will make you feel like you’re dining at a seaside village in Japan.

Westside Farms Chardonnay – Eloté (Mexican street corn)

Eloté is by far one of the most fun things you can eat. It’s a sweet, roasted ear of corn topped with velvety Mexican crema, spicy tajín and crumbly Cotija cheese. It’s tempting combination of sweet heat opens the door for some amazing pairing options, and we chose the Westside Farms Vineyard Chardonnay. It has an aromatic profile reminiscent of churros and fresh pineapple that transport us south of the border. So, stop worrying about some messy fingerprints on your wine glass and simply say, “Olé”!

Hallberg Vineyard – Dijon Clones Pinot Noir – Miso Soup, Chinese Mushroom Dumplings

Did you know that Dumplings are a symbol of wealth and prosperity for Chinese New Year?  Dive into this bountiful bowl of savory mushrooms that provides an earthy soulful comfort elevating the bright and delicate flavors of the Hallberg Dijon Pinot Noir.  Both these silky textures combined will bring you that perfect balance to find your ZEN.

Gap’s Crown Vineyard Pinot Noir – Chivda (spicy Indian snack mix)

Chivda is a popular snack in India made by roasting poha (rice flakes) with raisins, coconut shavings, cashews, peanuts, curry leaves, chilies, turmeric and sugar.  A part of the festivities of Diwali “Festival of Lights,” this sweet and savory explosion of flavors match the power and finesse of the Gap’s Crown Pinot Noir.  You can’t just have one bite or sip with this insatiable combination!

Bacigalupi Vineyard Chardonnay – Dolma (Turkish Stuffed Grape leaves)

The Bacigalupi Chardonnay carved a place in history much like that of Dolma, an ancient middle eastern recipe made from “cigar” rolled grape leaves with rice flavored in olive oil, lemon, onion and mint.  This delicate and tart bite matched with the floral and citrus notes in the Bacigalupi Chardonnay is a destination that must be experience.

Bien Nacido Vineyard Pinot Noir – Muhammara Dip with Pita

Bien Nacido Pinot Noir is known for its exotic spices, red fruit and elegance in the glass.  Muhammara dip comes from the Arabic word “ahmar” translating to mean “Red.”  Whip up this sultry and smoky snack of roasted red peppers, walnuts, sumac, pomegranate molasses, garlic, olive oil, Aleppo pepper flakes with toasted pita bread.   Your taste buds will be dancing with delight!

Martaella Vineyard Pinot Noir – Tahdig (Persian Saffron Rice)

Tahdig or “bottom of the pot” is a traditional Persian rice dish with saffron, yogurt and butter creating a crispy golden crust.  It can be enhanced with orange peel for extra aromatics.  Considered one of the “Soul Foods” of Persian cuisine, it will become your next comfort food.  Pairing this with the Martaella Pinot Noir unravels the mysterious layers of darker fruits with sandalwood, rose petal, and star anise.

Durell Vineyard Chardonnay – Arroz con Pollo (Puerto Rican chicken and rice dish)

Arroz con Pollo can be found in many family recipes across Latin America.  It is a one-pot wonder that is packed with robust flavors of sofrito, green olives, pigeon peas, rice and adobo chicken thighs.  Durell Chardonnay brings the party home with elements of tropical citrus fruits, toasted hazelnuts and crisp minerality.

Sanford & Benedict Vineyard Pinot Noir – Truffle Chicken Liver Mousse on a toast point

Truly a perfect pairing.  Though this may take some expert skills to make yourself, it can easily be found at your local delicatessen.  A little goes a long way with each decadent rich bite.  It is creamy, intense earthy qualities makes the Sanford & Benedict Pinot Noir lush dark cherry fruit shine while balancing the cedar and spice. Fun tip: Truffle Mushroom Pate is a great vegetarian alternative.

Ritchie Vineyard Chardonnay – Grilled polenta with goat cheese and fresh herbs

Polenta is a cornmeal that has been around since Roman times.  It can take many forms but, why not fire up your grill for this pairing??  Top your polenta with crumbled goat cheese and fresh herbs and voila! The smoky char, and sweet corn filling compliments the baked pear, white peach and racing acidity of the Ritchie Chardonnay.

McDonald Mountain Vineyard Pinot Noir – White Pizza with wild mushrooms

Pizza means “pie” in Italian. Enjoy a pie without the sauce!  Traditional pizza dough baked with garlic, olive oil, ricotta, mozzarella topped with wild mushrooms.  The complex layers of the McDonald Mountain Pinot Noir will unfold effortlessly in every bite with expressions of huckleberry, orange zest, fennel, baking spices and sweet tobacco.

Rochioli Vineyard Chardonnay – Baked brie pastry with green apple slices

The only thing better than creamy brie is Baked Brie! Your indulgence may get a bit gooey but it’s worth it!  Scoop apple slices into this easy to bake appetizer that will be a hit at any gathering.  The butter pastry combined with the oozing cheese and crisp green apple is joyfully simple and highlights the round and opulent Rochioli Chardonnay with balanced zesty acidity.

Grist Vineyard Zinfandel – Spanish Tapas

Create an elevated Tapas board with Spanish marcona almonds, marinated olives, aged Manchego cheese and Spanish ham.  Tapas meaning “to cover” originated in Andalucía, Spain.  Legend has it that in the early 1900’s King Alfonso XIII requested a slice of meat to be served on top of a glass of wine “to cover” it from the elements and the tradition was born.   This blissful trio is the perfect combination of salt, sweet, and fat.  Quench your thirst with the Grist Zinfandel with its brambly dark fruit and bright acidity and your senses will be in heaven.