AVENTURIST / SIMPLE PLEASURES

Summer Satisfaction

Tips that take grillin’ and chillin’ to new heights.

July 23,2009
It Takes Two






Make the most out of your next backyard BBQ with these scrumptious summer pairings.

No summertime soirée is complete without a mouthwatering match made in heaven. South Florida foodies are already firing up the grill and savoring good food and quality time with family and friends. Jacob’s Creek, the No. 1-selling wine and leading export brand in Australia, wants you to think beyond beer and try vino as the ideal party offering and a surefire way to impress guests. Everyone knows that amazing cuisine is made even better with the right wine, so why not get the most out of your grilled favorites? This guide offers pairings that will be a big hit with visitors and easy on the pocketbook. With the Jacob’s Creek Reserve collection, priced at $12.99 at BevMo.com, the options are guaranteed at a fantastic value and incredible taste.

Hamburgers: Always a crowd favorite at any summertime barbecue, burgers can be enjoyed with a variety of light reds. Specifically, Pinot Noir offers a flavorful yet soft companion, which perfectly balances the flavor of the onions and tomatoes.

Pork Chops: The smoothness and lack of intensity of Merlot is always a great match for grilled pork chops. Also, the subtlety of the Merlot will ensure that the taste of the pork is not lost. When pairing chops with any grilled fruit flavors, a dry Riesling will fit perfectly with the zest from the fruit.

Steak: Whether it’s a juicy steak or an Angus beef burger, big meat goes well with big wine. Jacob’s Creek recommends a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon. Because it’s typically aged in oak barrels, it has a wonderful oaky, smoky taste that complements the flavors of a steak right off the grill.

Ribs: When barbecue sauce enters the picture, it calls for wet naps and a delicious wine with lots of flavor. Pair a Shiraz with a bit of spice to complement the flavors of the sauce. To offset the spicy and smoky essence of the sauce, opt for a crisp, clean Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir. The cool bubbles will not only tame the summer heat, but they will offset the bright red color of the sauce all over fingers.

Chicken: Depending on the seasoning, grilled chicken often goes best with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay. Jacob’s Creek recommends this combination as it strikes a good balance between the seasoning and the light flavors of the Chardonnay.