I’ll Drink to That!

Someone asked me the other day for a risotto  recipe and my mind went instantly to a favorite I’ve been making during the Fall months for the last few years. Since risotto is right up there with mashed potatoes for best comfort foods and Fall is coming up really fast, I thought I would share this classic Bon Appetite recipe from the December 2004 issue with you. It’s full of the rich fall flavors of butternut squash, chestnuts and thyme and is the best accompaniment to an herb-roasted chicken or pork loin. Try a lush Viognier or an earthy Pinot Noir with this.

(click on the recipe name to be taken to the recipe online)

CHESTNUT RISOTTO WITH BUTTERNUT SQUASH - Bon Appetit - December 2004

Another Risotto that I love to make that also features butternut squash  includes rosemary, spinach and blue cheese. This with a filet or rib-eye and a glass of  Syrah or Cabernet is a Friday night in the making. Just add friends.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH, ROSEMARY AND BLUE CHEESE RISOTTO - Bon Appetit  - February 2005

P.S. These recipes are so rich, flavorful and satisfying, why not make them year ’round?

I’LL DRINK TO THAT!

Vines on the Marycrest - 2006 Satin Doll - 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Syrah, 20% Cabernet Franc

Tried this wine a couple of weeks ago and again last night, and it’s clearly a new favorite to be enjoyed again and again like the risottos. And with the risottos! This wine has a deep color and a boysenberry nose with light spicy oak. Great fruit and a long delightful finish.  Victor is making some wonderful wines at at his Paso Robles winery - I recommend you try them all!