Epicurean Dynamic Duos
Caviar Pairings
Some things are stand-alone classics, needing no introduction or accompaniment. Sometimes, though, a singular classic gets even better when it has a partner. Think Batman and Robin, Romeo and Juliet, Sonny and Cher. You get the idea.
In the world of iconic epicurean couplings, a few tried and true classic combos immediately come to mind – burgers and fries, hotdogs and beer, steak and potatoes. But let’s get somewhat more decadent, shall we? Dive into the ultimate indulgence of culinary pairings … caviar and oysters with their consummate companions – sparkling wine and vodka!
Whether you are a fancy foody or an appreciative explorer, keep this curated list handy, highlighting this more quintessential of gustatory experiences found in wine country – from Healdsburg to Sonoma and from Napa to St. Helena.
Breathless Sparkling Wines, Healdsburg
Breathless is the passion project of three Sonoma-born sisters paying homage to their mother, who taught them that every breath is a gift. Located a few blocks off the Healdsburg square, find this eclectic and eco-friendly spot featuring Art Deco-inspired interiors housed in a building constructed of reclaimed shipping containers. The award-winning team at Breathless offers a caviar picnic experience featuring Tsar Nicoulai caviar, sourced and harvested responsibly, served with the staple caviar accoutrement – crème fraîche and savory gourmet potato chips. At this casual outpost, you select the Breathless bottle to savor with your caviar. It’s laid back and effortless, and with the approachably priced Breathless bubbly, you just may find yourself staying around at Breathless long after the caviar is gone.
The acclaimed Sonoma-based Patz & Hall is a Chardonnay and Pinot Noir house that sprung to life in the 1980s when James Hall and Donald Patz found a common bond over wine, in particular the elegant Burgundian varietals. Decades later, which included a change in ownership, James Hall has repurchased his winery and is reinvigorating not only the wine styles but also his partnerships with like-minded California winegrowers. Located minutes from the iconic Sonoma Square, the Patz & Hall Sonoma House offers several opportunities to enjoy the wines including its notable “Bubbles and Pearls” caviar and sparkling wine experience. This exclusive tasting highlights three current-release Patz & Hall sparkling wines – Rosé, Brut, and Blanc de Blanc – along with three Tsar Nicoulai caviars, served complete with the de rigueur caviar accoutrement.
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The briny, rich taste of caviar is balanced by the crisp acidity and effervescence of sparkling wine, creating a harmonious contrast that elevates both. Together, they create a perfect synergy that is both sophisticated and satisfying.
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Established by the well-known family behind Champagne Taittinger, Domaine Carneros iconically stands atop a hill, giving off majestic vibes. Serving as the perfect Instagram-worthy photo opportunity, come here for the outstanding views but stay for the delightful sparkling wine. Domaine Carneros, one of the first wine estates in the region to offer such, boasts an ultimate caviar program. Taking place in the newly opened space within the chateau, Salon des Rêves, these elevated tasting experiences are extraordinary. The Salon des Rêves is an ultra-chic lounge evocative of a classy speakeasy. Commencing with the oysters and bubbly tasting, guests may further indulge with a custom selection of imported Tsar Nicoulai caviars paired with hand-selected sparkling wines from the estate. “The array of Tsar Nicoulai caviar pairings we offer at Domaine Carneros are a luxurious indulgence that elevate the sparkling wine experience, and guests can also feel good about the sustainable production methods of both the caviar and our wines,” said Remi Cohen, CEO at Domaine Carneros. Be sure to book ahead in order to secure your space within Salon des Rêves. Pairings are seasonally based, so the wine you sip and the caviar you savor will change throughout the year. Insider’s tip … be sure to indulge in a glass of Le Rêve Rosé, if it’s available. This effervescent sparkler is a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes and is ever so delicate and elegant with or without that bump of caviar.
Cuvaison Winery, Carneros, Napa
At Cuvaison, you are going to fall in love. If not for the lovely wines, then for the breathtaking views. If not for the vistas, then for the kind, jovial, and welcoming wine ambassadors. And, if not for them, then the sparkling wine and caviar pairing will certainly have you hooked. Cuvaison wines first made their debut in 1969 and ten years later, roots were planted in the Carneros region of Napa Valley anchoring the spacious estate. Fast forward to present day, the wine experiences at Cuvaison are varied, relaxed, and always inspiring. Set amid rolling vineyards, the estate has recently unveiled its Boathouse Pavilion designed by renowned architect, Douglas Thornley. This area of the property is comprised of two stunning open-air boathouses extending out over the large Cuvaison estate pond. “The boathouses are designed to bring that feeling of walking down a dock to a boat slip and that sense of leaving worries and stress behind as you reach the water,” says Cuvaison President and CEO, Daniel Zepponi. Available for private tastings, the Boathouse Pavilion boasts an ultimately unique Napa Valley experience. Reserve a caviar and sparkling wine flight – which is certainly kicked up a notch if booked within one of the boathouses – and enjoy Regiis Ova caviars paired with Cuvaison sparkling wines. The Brut Cuvée, with its zesty vibrancy, is an ideal complement to the caviar. Effervescence and acidity from the wine coupled with the rich and briny flavors of the caviar are a perfect match. And, these flavors set against the beautiful backdrops at Cuvaison are yet another essentially natural pairing.
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The clean, crisp profile of vodka, especially when served ice-cold, provides a neutral yet refreshing backdrop to the rich, briny flavor of caviar. The vodka’s purity enhances the caviar's delicate, oceanic taste, allowing the nuances of its texture and saltiness to shine.
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Hanson of Sonoma Distillery, Sonoma
Anyone familiar with vodka will quickly tell you that most vodkas are distilled from rye or wheat and some from potatoes. But vodka distilled from grapes? Yes, that’s a real thing and Hanson of Sonoma really nails it! Family-owned and operated by founders, Scott and Judy Hanson, alongside their four children, Hanson of Sonoma produces organic, grape-based vodkas infused with natural fruits and vegetables, crafting uniquely flavored vodkas including a cucumber vodka, a Meyer lemon, and a habanero. This low-key spot offers vodka tastings that are fun, innovative, and informative but also offers a bit of indulgence, too. Don’t miss the vodka and caviar combo featuring a variety of crisp, clean Hanson vodkas coupled with a line of namesake caviars curated by Regiis Ova, the exceptional caviar brand from famed chef, Thomas Keller. The Hanson team offers another indulgence, too…oysters! Farmed and raised by nearby Hog Island Oyster Company, this pairing is another treat. Take some time to delight in either (or both!) of these experiences at Hanson. Vodka is a perfect complement to both caviar and oysters, serving as a palate cleanser, allowing the taste buds to fully experience the briny characteristics of both delicacies. And, yes, in Napa and Sonoma, wine is the rule and vodka is certainly an exception. So, don’t miss this exceptional experience!
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Arguably one of the more prolific people in the world of wine, Jean-Charles Boisset, provocateur, founder, and proprietor of the Boisset Collection, offers guests not one, not two, but three sparkling wine and caviar options and each experience promises decadence and fun.
Chateau Buena Vista, Downtown Napa
Sparkling wine and caviar tastings at Chateau Buena Vista taste good and look good, too. Relish in the plush décor at this two-story tasting room located in the heart of downtown Napa while savoring the diverse bubbly and rich caviar combos. After enjoying salty and savory tastes, save room – you may just find yourself lingering longer to experience another great duo at Chateau Buena Vista … the chocolate and Cabernet pairing.
For a gilded experience among beautiful crystal chandeliers, stop in at JCB Tasting Salon to enjoy caviar paired with bubbles served within a hip and ultra-blingy setting. This location is truly a feast of the senses, dishing up delectable bites amid an array of eye candy décor.
At the historic Ink House, guests may opt for private, guided tastings featuring a roundup of bubbles from the JCB Collection paired with artisanal caviars from Boisset’s namesake caviar trove. The Ink House, constructed in 1885 by Theron H. Ink, an early California pioneer and farmer, has been a Napa Valley landmark for more than 130 years. Fun fact: this historic building also served as home to Elvis Presley in 1960 during his filming of the movie, “Wild In The Country”.