Harvest 2015 is officially in motion. In Napa, this Indian Summer is hot, hot, hot! What a more perfect time to discover (or re-discover) Riesling? With high, natural acidity, Riesling will become your new “go-to” wine, perfect for any occasion and definitely refreshing on these warm evenings.
Misunderstood in the past as only being a “sweet,” winemakers in Napa, and around the globe, are changing the way people enjoy Riesling. Charles Hendricks, winemaker of hope & grace Wines in Yountville, loves the versatility of Riesling. He meticulously watches over the grapes, checking the sugar levels every week to ensure the hope & grace Dry Riesling stays bone dry. It is his passion and commitment to winemaking that sets the Riesling into a class all its own. With bright citrus, tart apples and just a touch of honeycomb, hope & grace Dry Riesling compliments most any dish… or just to sip on your front porch, and enjoy the warm weather before Autumn rolls in!
SIZZLE, SIZZLE (on the grill…)
On these warm days in Napa, we spend almost every evening in our backyards. As grills have become a staple in most every home, it is easier than ever to come up with an excuse to fire up! Of course, there are countless ways to enjoy the entrée portion of your meal from the grill, but what about an easy, stress free appetizer? Grilled Peaches are a fantastic way to tap into the fresh fruit at the Farmers Market, or from your own backyard. They require little preparation and cook in a flash, which allows you time to be the perfect host. You may also glam them up with a simple garnish, such as lavender or mint.
PEACHES & RIESLING RECIPE
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 firm, ripe peaches
- 1-2 c fresh ricotta cheese
- Sourdough bread
- Extra virgin olive oil
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Pull a perfectly chilled bottle of hope & grace Dry Riesling from the fridge and pour yourself a nice glass.
- Brush some slices of sourdough bread (or the baguette from last night) with olive oil and place on the grill for just a couple of minutes.
- Cut the peaches in half and remove the pit. Brush the flesh side with some olive oil and grill, just until they are tender.
- Spread fresh ricotta cheese on the toasted bread and top with a grilled peach half.
- Sit back, relax and enjoy a blissful evening with hope & grace Dry Riesling.