Spec’sology Blog - Pairings

Easter dinner brings about the questions of what wine to pair with ham, or which one goes with lamb, or what pairs with both? Instead of trying to pair with the meal, what about pairing with the season? Thankfully it’s Spring, and that means Rosé is arriving fresh from the fields with its juicy zing that pairs perfectly well with ham and lamb, as well as lighter opening dishes. But it’s not just Rosé that can enliven your Easter dinner, as you’ll see we’ve provided several options that pair wonderfully with the season and your plate. Bliss Chardonnay This Estate

Everyone has a favorite party guest; somebody with a friendly, and approachable attitude, who can get along with anybody—no matter the circumstance or setting. In the wine world—Pinot Noir is that gregarious buddy. Pinot Noir is one of the most versatile and food-friendly red wines. The rich flavor profile of strawberry, cherry and raspberry with warm and spicy undertones create a mouthwatering mix that complements a wide variety of dishes. In honor of #PinotNoirDay, explore the best pinot noir and food pairings that you can use to enjoy on your own, or to give your party an upgrade that will

Looking for the perfect cheesecake wine pairing? We bring you a selection of the best wines to drink with cheesecake, no matter the topping. Plain Cheesecake Wine Pairing You’ll want something more subdued. Go with a sweet Riesling, or a late harvest Sauvignon Blanc. Honey Cheesecake Wine Pairing For a honey cheesecake, try a wine that has a touch of sweetness and plenty of acidity; Try a Moscato, or a dry Rosé. Our pick to pair with this Cheesecake is the Harvest Acres Sweet Gold Moscato. Its flavors of honeysuckle, sweet Georgia peach, melon and orange blossom make for a

Don’t you just love surprises? Seeing all your friends and family gathered in your den to pop out and all yell ‘Happy Birthday’ is a great feeling. But what’s even greater is discovering that your favorite wine pairs exceptionally well with a food that you never would have expected. Don’t be a slave to the ordinary; expand your palate with these unusual and surprising wine pairings. French Fries and Champagne July 13th marks National French Fry Day, so naturally we had to find a pairing for the iconic, diner side dish. Turns out, the saltiness and crunchiness of French fries

Can you hear the fluttering of cupid’s wings? Valentine’s day is right around the corner. Whether you plan to buy something sweet for your sweetie, or you just plan to ‘treat yo’ self,” there’s no denying that now’s the time for some rich, decadent chocolate. The only thing better than that is pairing it with the perfect wine. But you don’t have to be a sommelier to enjoy the right chocolate and wine pairing. Before you pop a cork, fill up the tub, and light some candles, follow a few of these simple chocolate and wine pairing guidelines. Do that,

Cheering on your team during the big game works up quite the appetite—and thirst! But before you rally up your game day party guests, be sure you’re prepared. It’s not just about stocking the cooler with old brews and tossing some pretzels in a big bowl. You could easily up the wow factor of your football watch party by pairing the right types of beer with gourmet foods. We’ve collected a few pairings suggestions so you can take your party to the next level of deliciousness! Pale Ale and Hot Wings or a Cheese Platter Ales tend to be a

Thanksgiving is almost here and that means the holiday stress is just starting to peak. We’re going to take care of that with some wine pairing tips you and your guests will be grateful for! Here are a few ways to go about this. One White, One Red A good and simple strategy for Thanksgiving wine is to select a very good white and a very good red, offering your guests their choice. For reds, look for soft tannins that will yield to and blend with your dishes, like Pinot Noir, Syrah, a fruity Zinfandel, Merlot, Beaujolais Nouveaux or a

Who is cognac? Cognac is that person you go on a date with who whispers, “I’m not like all the others, you know—I’m complex.” Intriguing. Bold. And yes. Very complicated in taste. Many think Cognac is difficult to pair with most foods—that she demands to be savored all by herself, with our palate’s full and undivided attention. But there’s a side to cognac you haven’t seen yet. A friendlier side. Cognac, with her balance of fruit and acidity is much easier to pair with foods than you’d think. So what is the secret to pairing cognac and food? Temper Cognac’s