On cold evenings like the last few, I realize three things: 1. As I age I enjoy the cold weather less and less. 2. I really enjoy comfort food during these cold spells. 3. A good bottle of wine adds to the enjoyment of comfort food, while also adding to the warmth factor. With these thoughts in mind, my wife and I did some shopping at Bagliani’s Italian Market in Hammonton and I had a few bottles in mind to pair with the meals we had planned.
Chili and William Heritage Syrah
Earlier this week my wife made one of my wintertime favorites-Chili. She used a recipe from my sister, Carolyn, which we both love. It consists of Ground beef, tomatoes, kidney beans, chick peas, black beans, celery, onions, green peppers, chili powder, paprika, Worcester sauce, and lemon juice and parsley (added at the end ). Delish!
To pair with this hearty dish I chose William Heritage Winery 2022 Syrah. It is an excellent medium plus bodied red wine with deep color and notes of blackberry and plum on the palate.
Baked Cod and Cedar Rose Chardonnay
The cod was fresh caught in the USA and frozen aboard the ship. We purchased it at Bagliani’s in Hammonton. I seasoned it with a bit of white wine, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic salt, and parsley. It was very good. The picture does not capture the quality and taste. My wife and I added baked potatoes and fresh green beans as sides.
I paired this dinner with a bottle of Cedar Rose 2022 Chardonnay. It is a very good Chardonnay with lemon and green apple on the palate.
Photos of the dinner and wine are shown below.
Steak on the Grill & Hawk Haven 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon
Two nice strip steaks, with broccoli rabe, and sweet potato fries. I paired this meal with the Hawk Haven 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon. This is a wonderful medium plus bodied version with smooth tannins and ripe cherry and caramel on the palate. I believe this is the best Hawk Haven Cab in several years (or longer).
A Few New Trends in the Alcohol Industry
There have been a few new trends that are happening across the country. New Jersey has been participating in a few of these. Hard seltzers have become more and more popular at breweries and in liquor stores. I’m not a fan of that trend. Another trend is the increased sales of non Alcoholic beers and mixed drinks. There’s a place for this one, though I don’t think I will be buying a lot of these drinks. A third trend is one of the hottest in the industry. It’s called “Ready to Drink Cocktails.” At first, I viewed it as a reflection of our collective laziness, but I think this trend will continue to grow. I will be doing some of my own research at a few of New Jersey’s distilleries. Tough work, but somebody has to do it! I will be checking out this market at these great venues in the New Year-Wild Feather in Haddonfield, Mission Spirits in Millville, and Blue Rascal in Hammonton.
Coming Attractions
- My Top 25 NJ Wines for 2024
- My highlights from 2024 NJ Winery Visits
- Amalthea Cellars Winter 2025
- Working Dog Winery-Changes & More
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