Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are black in color and have thick skins. The vines are very hardy. The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are used in making red wines that are very deep and dark in color. It is often blended with Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with steak, heavy buttercream sauce dishes, cheddar, mozzarella and brie cheeses, and best of all: dark chocolate.
Gewurztraminer is a grape that has pink to red skin color. The word actually means “spicy grape” and it lives up to its name. It is very aromatic, high in natural sugar and used in white dry wines. Gewurztraminer pairs very well with spicy foods like Mexican, Chinese, and Thai. Give it a try with your turkey dinner at Thanksgiving!
The Pinot Noir Grape is a black-colored grape used in making red wine and as a main ingredient in many Champagnes. It is lighter-bodied compared to other red wines produced in the Finger Lakes area. Pinot Noir pairs well with pasta, chicken, tomato based sauces, beef and smoked salmon. Best of all, Pinot Noir is extremely high in resveratrol, which is thought to have antioxidant properties, making it one of the healthiest wines in the world.
This is another beginner tablescape class I taught this week. From time to time I offer these in my home and the ladies always have a blast. The theme this time was “Coffee Anyone?” – How to create a table for dessert.
The Riesling Grape is a white grape that originally came from Germany. It is quite aromatic and used to make dry, semi sweet, sweet, and sparkling wines. Rieslings are a favorite here in the Finger Lakes area. They offer a full spectrum, from dry to sweet, with a crisp fruity flavor. Riesling pairs well with fresh fruit, cheese, salads, chicken, and turkey. They are also wonderful to drink on their own.
