2006-12-22
Simi Alexander Cabernet Sauvignon
Perfectly Paired with
Hanger Steak
and Creamy Mushroom Linguine
According to Chef Eric Lee of Simi Winery selecting the most appropriate wine to go with your favorite menu item, or conversely, picking the wine from your cellar that is going to make your dinner menu even more enjoyable is not as tough a task as it might seem. “The key to any good pairing,” says Eric, “is balance, so that not one single taste in the dish stands out. He and winemaker Steve Reeder demonstrate the ease and truth of this truism by setting a glass of the 2003 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon alongside a serving of Eric’s Grilled Hanger Steak with Creamy Mushroom Linguine.
“This dish goes great with this wine because the pair are fully in balance,” explains Eric. “The saltiness of the soy sauce marinade, the wine in the sauce and the earthiness of the mushrooms all work in harmony. If the dish were too sweet the wine would probably taste stronger and more tannic. If the dish were too acidic the wine would taste ‘limp’ and watered down.”
“This dish is rich and full of flavor and the balance is ideal,” agrees Steve. “This wine has great power, with intense berry tones accentuated by dried herbs and full ripe tannins. The blend is 90% Cabernet Sauvignon,
7% Merlot, 1% Syrah, 1% Petite Sirah and 1% Cabernet Franc. Like the steak and linguine, the wine is rich and complex, with an enticing aroma and magnificent flavor.”
For more great wine selections to balance against your treasured menus Simi wines can be sampled in the tasting room adjoining the historic winery at 16275 Healdsburg Avenue in Healdsburg. Reservations may also be made for a private tasting tour highlighting Chef Eric’s food selections. More information about the wines and colorful shots of the winery are on the website: www.simiwinery.com and for more information call (707) 473-3231.
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