McGrail Vineyards is OPEN by Reservation for tastings and bottle service daily! Curbside pickup is also open daily from 10:30-4:30PM.

Tag: <span>wine lover</span>

Wine at Home

Binge-Worthy TV, Gourmet Popcorn, and Wine Trios

By Laina Carter of McGrail Vineyards

Inspired by another stay-at-home order issued for the Bay Area, I’ve imagined my favorite pairings yet. I know how mundane being stuck at home can get, so here are the ultimate time-passing pairings: binge-able shows that you can easily stream, along with a bowl of flavorful, gourmet popcorn and a fat glass of your favorite wine! Enjoy these binge-worthy TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings!


Get Wine Now

Don’t worry if you don’t have any of these wines at home, because we’re certainly happy to help you. We’re currently offering daily, contact-free curbside pickups from 10:30AM-4:30PM and local delivery on purchases of 12 bottles or more, so you can enjoy these TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings!


TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings

Similar to our Worldly Wine & Picture Pairings blog post, the overarching theme of this TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine one is based on the fact that people are stuck at home right now, probably spending a lot of their time drinking their stash of good wine and bingeing streamable shows and movies. This is something I often find myself doing.

There are so many excellent, easy-to-stream shows on various networks, it can sometimes be overwhelming to choose which one to watch. I’ve done the work for you and have paired each popcorn and wine pairing with a television genre and have listed several suggestions for each. This way, all you have to do is choose your favorite wine or your favorite TV genre and your popcorn pairing recipe and shows are right there for you! Simple enough, right?

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings

I chose popcorn to pair with these wines and TV shows because everyone likes popcorn. Unlike its Jelly Belly flavor, actual popcorn is loved by all. It’s also effortless to make and so versatile; there’s practically a million different ways to jazz it up. Lastly, it’s the best snack to mindlessly stuff your face with when watching TV and movies.

Keep reading for all of our TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings OR tap the button below for just our popcorn pairing recipes.


TV, Gourmet Popcorn, & Wine Pairings

Choose your favorite wine OR your favorite television genre!

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings are listed in order by the name of each wine. Yes, I’ve included all of our wines! Corresponding popcorn recipes can be found linked below each wine’s header.


A Jó Élet, “the Good Life” Cabernet Sauvignon & Mind-Bending Dystopian Science Fiction & Psychological Thrillers

Our seriously bold, inky Cabernet is as dark, mysterious, and unexpected as these poignant series are. While bingeing a show that is unpredictable, and even sometimes psychologically distressing, our comforting “Good Life” will keep you feeling safe and cozy on your couch. Now, pair that with dark chocolate cinnamon almond popcorn for some serious relaxation during these hair-raising episodes. This TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairing is a scream!

Disclaimer: I don’t recommend watching these shows with young children present, as they can be scary, display violence, and/or contain vulgar language.


Black Mirror (2011-2019)

Image courtesy of nme.com

Rated R

If you haven’t already seen it, then you’ve surely heard of it. Black Mirror is a brilliant British series of mini dramas that takes a dark, cynical delve into the ways in which technology impacts and interacts with humans. Insane twists and turns throughout will keep you on your toes and fully engaged. Each episode is unique, but all will leave you questioning every element of technology in your life. Since each episode is a stand-alone drama, this series doesn’t have to be watched in any specific order. I recommend starting with episodes “White Bear” or “White Christmas,” from Season 2, or “Nosedive” from Season 3. In my opinion, these are some of the more mild episodes, but still give viewers a good idea of what to expect. Season 1 was given a 98% rating by Rotten Tomatoes, but you should watch it for yourself.

Watch it for free on Netflix or buy episodes for $3.99 each on Amazon Prime Video. *Find a special interactive episode on Netflix.*

Watch the trailer for Season 1 here.


The Twilight Zone (2019-Present)

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings
Image courtesy of imdb.com

Rated TV-14+

Jordan Peele, the director of psychological thrillers Get Out and Us, is also narrator and creator of this classic science fiction and fantasy reboot. As he does in his two most well-known films, Peele touches on human fears, desires, and prejudices, but this time through episodical metaphors. Like Black Mirror, the Twilight Zone series is composed of individual stand-alone episodes. As is to be expected, some episodes are better than others, but all are honestly pretty creepy. I personally enjoyed the first three episodes of Season 1 the best. Rotten Tomatoes said of Season 1, “the Twilight Zone explores the strangeness of the modern world through Rod Serling’s winning formula, creating a thought-provoking — if not always spine-tingling showcase for” … “Peele and his exceptional crop of collaborators.”

Watch it with a CBS All Access subscription (Amazon Prime members get a free one month subscription) or buy individual episodes on YouTube for $1.99.

Watch the Season 1 trailer here.


American Horror Story (2014-Present)

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings
Image courtesy of deadline.com

Rated TV-MA

From the creators of Glee, Nip/Tuck, Ratched, and so many other phenomenal series, American Horror Story encapsulates its title through flagrant gore and truly terrifying story lines in both the human and paranormal worlds. The aesthetics throughout the 9-season show are just as impressive as the series is scary. Each season contains its own storyline, though there is some overlap with certain seasons. It would seem that every viewer has a favorite season, but that is subjective, of course. My personal favorite is Season 3: Coven, but they’re all great in their own ways. 94% of Google Users said they liked the show. You might fall into that category, but there’s only one way to find out: watch it… if you dare!

Catch American Horror Story on Netflix or Amazon Prime Video.

Watch the Season 3 trailer here.


Westworld (2016-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Watch it on HBO Max, Hulu, or purchase episodes on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, or iTunes.
  • Preview Westworld here.

Russian Doll (2019-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 97%
  • Watch Russian Doll on Netflix.
  • Watch the preview for Russian Doll here.

Austin James Cabernet Sauvignon & True Crime Documentaries & Dramatizations 

Like the wrongdoings that take place in these true crime documentaries and dramatizations, our Austin James is bold. Pair it with some electrifying bacon and BBQ spice popcorn to get your inner sleuth fired up! The bacon will smooth out the tannins in this three-vineyard Cabernet blend, but the wine will warm your soul as you venture through some of history’s most ruthless crimes with this TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairing.


American Crime Story (2016-Present)

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings
Image courtesy of BestBuy.com

Rated TV-MA

From genius Producer Ryan Murphy, American Crime Story is another exquisitely beautiful series with A-list actors and incredible aesthetics. Each season of the two-season show is based on a different controversial crime story within our lifetimes. Season 1 was about the O.J. Simpson murder trial in the mid-nineties, with a bronco-driving Cuba Gooding Jr. as O.J., a perm-donning Sarah Paulson as Marcia Clark, Emmy-winning Sterling K. Brown as Christopher Darden, along with many other well-known actors and actresses. Season 2 was based on the murder of Gianni Versace and the myriad other crimes of his killer Andrew Cunanan. It’s rumored the third season is about Clinton’s late-’90s impeachment trial. Even though we’ve lived through these events, each episode is still a thrill ride. The average tomatometer of the two seasons gives this show a 93% rating, with season 1 scoring higher than its predecessor.

Watch it on Netflix or purchase individual episodes for $1.99 on YouTube or iTunes.

Watch the trailer for Season 1: the People v. O.J. Simpson here.


Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, And Madness (2020)

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings
Image courtesy of Seattle Spectator

Rated TV-MA

I think most people binged this one at the beginning of the pandemic, but if you didn’t, you truly are missing out. This documentary about America’s exotic animal owners takes you on a non-stop roller coaster through the jungle that is the southeastern United States. Just when you think things can’t get more wild, a metaphorical monsoon of elephants is dropped out of the sky (or someone gets their arm ripped off by a tiger). Every single episode is thoroughly entertaining, and if you watch it and disagree, you will, at a minimum, feel so much better about your own life choices. Rotten Tomatoes rates Tiger King at 86%.

Find Tiger King on Netflix.

Watch our spoof on Tiger King here.

Watch the trailer here.


Interrogation (2020)

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings
Image courtesy of CBS.com

Rated TV-MA

Based on the true story of his mother’s murder in mid-1980s Los Angeles, this dramatized series closely follows the life of 17-year-old, drug-addicted Eric Fisher. Aside from the season finale, this show is designed so that each episode can be watched in whatever order the viewer chooses; this is meant to emulate the manner in which a cold case detective might approach the case. You, as the viewer, get to decide who is guilty of the murder, based on the way in which the evidence is laid out to you. Conceptually, this series is awesome. The acting isn’t too bad either. 80% of Google users said they liked this show.

Stream Interrogation on CBS All Access.

Watch the trailer here.


Mindhunter (2017-2019)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 98%
  • Catch Mindhunter on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.

The Ripper (2020)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 80%
  • Watch it on Netflix.
  • Catch the trailer here.

Making A Murderer (2015-2018)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 84%
  • Find Making A Murderer on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Manhunt: Deadly Games (2017)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Watch it on Netflix, Hulu, Sling TV, fuboTV, or purchase episodes on Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, iTunes, or YouTube.
  • Catch the trailer for season 1 here.

Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer (2021)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatos rating: 71%
  • Stream it on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Unsolved Mysteries (2020-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 77%
  • Watch Unsolved Mysteries on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.

C. Tarantino Cabernet Sauvignon & Dark Dramedies

One thing I really love about our C. Tarantino Cab is its gorgeous acidity, which makes it perfect for pairing with food, especially Italian food! This parmesan herb sun-dried tomato popcorn makes an incredible Italian food substitute to pair with our beautifully acidic Cab. Both will hold you over through the laughter and the tears of these dark dramedies in this TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairing.


Santa Clarita Diet (2017-2019)

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings
Image courtesy of imdb.com

Rated TV-MA

Drew Barrymore and Timothy Olyphant play husband-wife realtor duo in this hilariously horrific Netflix series. The suburb-dwelling couple, raising a teenage daughter in Santa Clarita, are faced with a supernatural challenge when Barrymore unwittingly eats some bad seafood. Things begin to get unexpectedly bloody and undead very quickly, but this real estate-selling team can handle anything… dead or alive. This series cleverly touches on the obstacles of marriage, parenthood, and being undead, all while keeping you laughing. Rotten Tomatoes gave this comedic horror a rating of 89%, but you should watch for yourself.

Binge Santa Clarita Diet on Netflix.

Watch the trailer here.


What We Do in the Shadows (2019-Present)

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings
Image courtesy of whatwedointheshadows.fandom.com

Rated TV-14

Based loosely on Taika Waititi and Jermaine Clement’s 2014 mockumentary film, this recent FX series takes place in the suburbs of New York City, following the lives of four vampiric roommates, who attempt to navigate today’s world and modern social scene with antiquated garb and outdated ideas. Akin to its antecedent film, What We Do in the Shadows, this show also reveals the disheartening relationship between a vampire and its “familiar,” the motives of vampire slayers, and the similarities and differences between vampires and other supernatural creatures. The comedy throughout is bitingly sharp, and according to Rotten Tomatoes, its second season, which received a 100% rating, “savvily expands its supernatural horizons while doubling down on the fast flying fun.” Don’t miss out on this hidden gem of dark comedy.

Watch What We Do in the Shadows on Hulu. New episodes can be found on FX.

Preview season 2 here.


Dead to Me (2019-Present)

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings
Image courtesy of tvseriesfinale.com

Rated TV-MA

When her husband is murdered in a hit and run, Jen, portrayed by Christina Applegate, seeks help in grieving at a local support group. Here, she meets Judy, played by Linda Cardellini, who is suffering a loss of her own. The pair of opposites become fast friends, but Judy is hiding something from Jen. Judy’s secrets eventually surface and their friendship is tested. Tears, laughter, drama, and even murder follow. Rotten Tomatoes gave the series an overall rating of 89%, and said of the show’s second season, which received a slightly higher rating than the first, “doubles down on the twists” and “makes excellent use of its well-matched leads.”

Stream Dead to Me on Netflix now.

Watch the trailer here.


Nurse Jackie (2009-2015)

  • Rated R
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 81%
  • Episodes of Nurse Jackie may be purchased on YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, or Google Play Movies & TV.
  • Preview Nurse Jackie here.

In the Dark (2019-Present)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 73%
  • In the Dark can be streamed on Netflix and the CW. Episodes may be purchased on YouTube.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Charlie Rae Chardonnay & Dark Female-Lead Dramas

This salted caramel butterscotch popcorn is so sweet, buttery, and when paired with our Charlie Rae Chardonnay, fabulous… kind of like the female leads in these dramas! This TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairing is dangerously divine.


Good Girls (2018-Present)

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings
Image courtesy of imdb.com

Rated TV-MA

When housewife Beth discovers that her husband’s car dealership is going under and her family’s savings have been drained, she finds herself desperate to make ends meet. She calls on her sister Annie and best friend Ruby for help, as they too are hurting both financially and emotionally. The three concoct a plan to find money, with no holds barred. Upon finding money, the three moms find theirselves in more trouble than they had ever expected. Shocking twists and turns ensue throughout this series, with a healthy amount of laughs sprinkled in. Rotten Tomatoes gave this NBC series an overall rating of 87%, but seasons 2 and 3 were both rated 100%. Watch the first two or three episodes and you won’t be able to stop.

Stream Good Girls on NBC, Netflix, Hulu, Sling TV, YouTube TV, or fuboTV.

Watch the trailer here.


Sharp Objects (2018)

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings
Image courtesy of imdb.com

Rated TV-MA

This gripping, eight-episode series is based on a Gillian Flynn novel by the same title (Flynn also authored psychological thriller “Gone Girl”). Amy Adams plays Camille Preaker, a reporter who returns to her quaint hometown to investigate the homicides of young girls. Camille’s past traumas and the reasons she left her hometown–her overbearing mother, her spiteful stepfather, the gossipy women of the small town, and the tragic passing of her younger sister–come to light, along with present demons. Unfortunately, this show lacks closure following the insane twist that takes place in the very last moment of the limited series. Rotten Tomatoes gave it a rating of 92% and said “a nearly unbearable slow burn, Sharp Objects maintains its grip with an unshakably grim atmosphere and an outstanding cast led by a superb Amy Adams.” Be sure to watch it all the way through. Nothing is really as it seems.

Watch Sharp Objects on HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or Youtube TV.

Catch the trailer here.


How to Get Away with Murder (2014-2020)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 88%
  • Stream it on Netflix now.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Unbelievable (2019)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 98%
  • Stream Unbelievable on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Big Little Lies (2017-2019)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 89%
  • Stream it on HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or YouTube TV.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Little Fires Everywhere (2020)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Stream Little Fires Everywhere on Hulu.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Colton’s Cabernet Sauvignon & Comedic Animated Sitcoms

Just as Colton’s Cabernet is relatively easy to drink, the animated comedies in this TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairing are a piece of cake to watch. Throw some tasty herb popcorn into the mix, to complement the Colton’s Cab, and just enjoy! Whether you’re having a bad day or the best day ever, these animated comedy pairings are sure bring a smile to your face!


Family Guy (1999-Present)

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings
Image courtesy of imdb.com

Rated TV-14

While this show isn’t for everyone, I personally love how shrewd and chaotic it is. Producer Seth MacFarlane isn’t afraid to take jabs at anyone or anything. Covering the daily lives of the Griffin family, Family Guy paints patriarch Peter’s stupidity as unexpectedly endearing. The entire show is mostly mindless fun, with some witty humor sprinkled in. If you watch enough Family Guy, the Griffin family will eventually steal your heart, whether you like it or not. Laughs aren’t guaranteed if this isn’t your cup of tea, but if it turns out to be, the laughs won’t stop coming.

Catch new episodes of Family Guy on FOX and reruns on TBS. Most seasons can be streamed on FOX NOW, Hulu, fuboTV, Sling TV, and episodes may be purchased on YouTube, iTunes, Amazon Prime Video, and Vudu.

Watch the trailer for Season 19 of Family Guy here.


The Simpsons (1989-Present)

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings
Image courtesy of imdb.com

Rated TV-14

I’d imagine that most American adults have seen at least a clip of the Simpsons. Similar to Family Guy, the Simpsons covers the ridiculous antics of the Simpsons family. Although Homer Simpson usually means well, he often finds himself in trouble, while son Bart prides himself on being a troublemaker. Homer’s sweet daughter Lisa is every parent’s dream child, but sometimes a little too much so. His wife Marge is constantly working to fix Homer’s mistakes. These easy watching episodes may be watched in whatever order the viewer chooses. Enjoy reacquainting yourself with this American classic.

New episodes can be watched on FOX and reruns on Freeform. Stream the Simpsons on FOX NOW, Disney+, Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling TV, and fuboTV. Episodes may be purchased on Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and YouTube.

After 31 seasons, the Simpsons has become an icon of American popular culture, so instead of a trailer, here is a compilation of some of the show’s best bits, to remind you how hilarious it is.


Bob’s Burgers (2011-Present)

  • Rated TV-13+
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 91%
  • New episodes can be watched on FOX, reruns on TBS and Cartoon Network. Stream Bob’s Burgers on Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling TV, and fuboTV. Episodes may be purchased on Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and YouTube.
  • Watch a 2018 Comic-Con highlight reel of Bob’s Burgers here.

Rick and Morty (2013-Present)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 94%
  • New episodes and reruns can be watched on Cartoon Network. Stream Rick and Morty on Hulu, HBO Max, YouTube TV, and Sling TV. Episodes may be purchased on Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and YouTube.
  • Watch a trailer for seasons 2 and 3 of Rick and Morty here.

Futurama (1999-2013)

  • Rated TV-PG
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 95%
  • Watch it on Comedy Central, Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling TV, or fuboTV.
  • Watch the original 1999 trailer here.

F is for Family (2015-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 87%
  • Find F is for Family on Netflix.
  • Preview here.

Gracie Sparkling Brut & Feel-Good Comedic Sitcoms

Just as I would imagine Gracie would prefer, I’ve paired her delicious namesake bubbles with TV shows and popcorn that just make you happy. This binge-worthy TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairing trio is just simply enjoyable.


The Good Place (2016-Present)

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings
Image courtesy of medium.com

Rated TV-14

Kristen Bell and Ted Danson star in this hilarious series about the afterlife. Vulgar and selfish Eleanor Shelstrop (played by Bell) questions her qualifications for being sent to “the good place” when she is killed by a truck carrying a billboard for an erectile dysfunction pill. When she realizes there has been a mistake, Eleanor tries to blend into “the good place” and fool its creator Michael (played by Danson), although Michael himself isn’t actually as good as he’d like Eleanor and other residents of “the good place” to believe. Watch the entire series for a cast of A-list comedians and some dark-rooted laughs, romance, and shocks. Rotten Tomatoes gave the Good Place a rating of 97%.

Watch on Netflix or purchase episodes on Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, or YouTube.

Watch the season 1 trailer here.


Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (2015-2019)

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings
Image courtesy of medium.com

Rated TV-14

Kimmy was stuck in an underground bunker as part of a doomsday cult for 15 years of her young life, until she and several other “Indiana mole women” are rescued. Forced back into the unfamiliarity of the real world, ultra-optimistic Kimmy moves to New York City, perhaps one of the most unfamiliar places of all, to reclaim her life. She hastily rents a room from wannabe Broadway star Titus and sketchy, eccentric New Yorker landlord Lillian and accepts a job from ultra-wealthy, elite, stay-at-home mom Jacqueline. The series, created by Tina Fey, is brilliant in its constant and witty humor, following Kimmy through her daily, cheerful naïveté. Rotten Tomatoes gave the show an overall rating of 96%, though its second season received a perfect score, and said it “is still odd in the best of ways, wonderfully building on its unique comedy stylings and brilliantly funny cast.”

Watch on Netflix. *Includes special interactive episode*

Preview here.


The Office (2005-2013)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 81%
  • Stream on Peacock, YouTube TV, or Philo. Episodes may be purchased on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, iTunes, and Google Play Movies & TV. Reruns can be found on Comedy Central.
  • Watch the season 1 trailer here.

Schitt’s Creek (2015-2020)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 93%
  • Find Schitt’s Creek on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, YouTube TV, or fuboTV. Episodes may be purchased on iTunes, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Community (2009-2015)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 88%
  • Watch on Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or fuboTV.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Arrested Development (2003-2019)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 93%
  • Stream Arrested Development on Netflix or Hulu now.
  • Watch the season 4 trailer here.

Parks and Recreation (2009-2015)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 93%
  • Watch Parks and Recreation on Peacock, YouTube TV, Sling TV, or fuboTV. Reruns can be found on Comedy Central and IFC.
  • Preview season 1 here.

30 Rock (2006-2013)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 78%
  • Enjoy on Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or Peacock. Purchase episodes on iTunes, YouTube, or Google Play Movies & TV.
  • Watch highlights from the pilot episode here.

James Vincent Cabernet Sauvignon & Dark Dramas

Just like this bold Cab, its popcorn pairing is rich and decadent. Enjoy the dark duo with these dark dramas for the ultimate TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine trio.


The Walking Dead (2010-Present)

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings
Image courtesy of entertainmenttonight.com

Rated TV-MA

Based on a comic book series of the same name, the Walking Dead begins with Georgia law officer Rick Grimes waking up in a hospital after being shot in a job-related shooting, with not a single ~living~ person in sight. He soon realizes the world has become very different from the one he once knew. Grimes must learn how to fend for himself in a world overtaken by the undead and the many untrustworthy living creatures who he crosses on his journey to find his family and rebuild civilization. With incredibly gruesome and graphic gore, this show may not be for everyone, and it’s especially not for children. The suspense, drama, and thrill of rebuilding society while fending off walkers will keep you hooked if you can stomach this show’s literal blood and guts. Rotten Tomatoes gave the Walking Dead a rating of 81%.

Stream on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, Sling TV, or fuboTV. New episodes air on AMC.

Watch the trailer here.


Yellowstone (2018-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 74%
  • Watch now on Peacock, YouTube TV, fuboTV, or the Paramount Network. New episodes air on the Paramount Network. Episodes may be purchased on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, or Google Play Movies & TV.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Fargo (2014-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 93%
  • Stream on Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling TV, or fuboTV. New episodes air on FX. Individual episodes may be purchased on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, iTunes, or Google Play Movies & TV.
  • Watch the season 1 trailer here.

Peaky Blinders (2013-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 93%
  • Find now on Netflix or purchase episodes on iTunes.
  • Watch the season 1 trailer here.

Game of Thrones (2011-2019)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Roten Tomatoes rating: 89%
  • Watch now on HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or YouTube TV. Purchase episodes on YouTube, iTunes, or Google Play Movies & TV.
  • Watch the trailer for season 1 here.

The Sopranos (1999-2007)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 92%
  • Watch now on HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or YouTube TV. Purchase episodes on YouTube, iTunes, and Google Play Movies & TV.
  • Watch trailer here.

Boardwalk Empire (2010-2014)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 92%
  • Watch on HBO Max, Hulu, YouTube TV, or Amazon Prime Video. Purchase episodes on iTunes, YouTube, or Google Play Movies & TV.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Kylie Ryan Rosé & Strong Female-Lead Series

What could possibly be more feminine than pink wine? Our Rosé is like the cosmo of the wine world, which is why it pairs so well with some of these classic TV shows with strong female leads and humbly delicious kettle corn. This TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairing has your daily dose of girl power!


Scandal (2012-2018)

TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings
Image courtesy of Amazon.com

Rated TV-14

Everyone in Washington D.C. has skeletons in their closet, but anyone who wants to keep them there needs Olivia Pope on their side. Pope (played by Kerry Washington), a former media consultant to the president, opens a crisis management firm to patch up holes that leak the drama, corruption, and scandal of the American political scene. Olivia’s staff at the firm work tirelessly to fix the lives of others, but can’t seem to be able to do the same for themselves. Whether you love her or hate her, there is no denying Pope is a bad ass. Shonda Rhimes is behind this political thriller, offering up plenty of drama, pain, suspense, and, of course, a soulful soundtrack. Of its second season, Rotten Tomatoes said “owning its soap-like sensibilities, Scandal creates enticingly addictive narratives, with surprising twists and fascinatingly damaged characters,” and gave it an overall rating of 93%.

Stream now on Hulu. Episodes may be purchased on YouTube, iTunes, Amazon Prime Video, or Google Play Movies & TV.

Watch the trailer here.


Sex and the City (1998-2004)

Image courtesy of imdb.com

Rated TV-MA

I’d imagine most people have at least heard of Sex and the City, but if you haven’t, I’ll give you a quick synopsis. Carrie Bradshaw, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, narrates the show about New York City womanhood in the late 1990s. SATC primarily focuses on the lives of four women: Charlotte, Samantha, Miranda, and Carrie, of course. Carrie is a sex columnist, who lives for romance, drama, and a really beautiful pair of designer shoes. Sweetheart Charlotte, who works at an upscale art gallery, is the most modest of the bunch. Samantha is content with being a sex-crazed blonde bombshell, while Miranda is an extremely cynical, grumbly, career-minded lawyer. No matter what hardships are thrown at the foursome, they stick together through it all. A reboot is planned for 2021, so if you haven’t yet watched it or are looking for a sign to rewatch it, this is it.

Stream now on Hulu, HBOMax, YouTube TV, Amazon Prime Video, or Sling TV. Reruns can be watched on E!. Purchase individual episodes on iTunes, YouTube, or Google Play Movies & TV.

Watch a trailer here.


Marvel’s Jessica Jones (2015-2019)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 83%
  • Stream now on Netflix or purchase episodes on Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, YouTube, or Google Play Movies & TV.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Veep (2012-2019)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 93%
  • Watch on HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or YouTube. Individual episodes may be purchased on iTunes, YouTube, or Google Play Movies & TV.
  • Watch the trailer here.

The Crown (2016-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 91%
  • Catch the Crown on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.

New Girl (2011-2018)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 95%
  • Stream on Netflix. Find reruns on TBS. Episodes may be purchased on iTunes, YouTube, or Google Play Movies & TV.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Malbec & Sci-Fi & Dark Coming of Age & Young Adult Mysteries & Dramas 

Akin to the wine, this popcorn is fruity and chocolatey, but not too sweet. Enjoy the mysteriously dark and delicious pair with these coming of age and young adult series in this TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine grouping.


Harlan Coben’s the Stranger (2020), the Five (2016), or Safe (2018)

Image courtesy of YouTube.com

Rated TV-MA

Harlan Coben, an American mystery and thriller novelist, was given a deal with Netflix to turn several of his books into series. Despite being from New Jersey, Coben’s shows all take place in England and their casts are almost exclusively composed of European folk. Funny enough, Michael C. Hall (the star of Dexter) plays one of the main characters in Safe, albeit with an English accent. Anyway, each of these titles are seriously thrilling and packed with unpredictable twists and turns from start to finish. If you’re into mysteries, even those that are sometimes a little too far-fetched to be believable, a little bit of British humor, and young adult dramas, these are for you! Personally, I would recommend watching the Stranger, then Safe, and finally the Five if you’re able to get really into the first two.

Rotten Tomatoes ratings: the Stranger – 83%, the Five – N/A, Safe – 71%

Stream all three on Netflix.

Watch the trailer for the Stranger here. View the trailer for the Five here. Watch the trailer for Safe here.


The Queen’s Gambit (2020)

Image courtesy of imdb.com

Rated TV-MA

Everyone’s talking about it, but have you watched it yet? You don’t have to be into chess to enjoy this beautifully dark series. Anya Taylor-Joy plays orphaned Beth Harmon, who learns to play chess with her orphanage’s janitor. Even as a child, she struggles with drug abuse, using the pills given to her by the orphanage administrators to excel in her game. Upon her adoption, Beth is sent to a regular public school, where instead of joining the social clubs most accepted by young women her age, she jumps right into the school’s chess club. The members of the primarily male group are quick to underestimate young Beth’s abilities, but she proves her rivals to be the inferior players. Without giving away too much, let me just say the Queen’s Gambit is an underdog story and one of immense girl power. Rotten Tomatoes gave it a rating of 97%.

Stream on Netflix.

Watch the trailer here.


The End of the F***ing World (2017-2019)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 93%
  • Watch it on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Stranger Things (2016-Present)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 93%
  • Stream on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Trinkets (2019-2020)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Watch on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.

I Am Not Okay with This (2020)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 87%
  • Stream on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.

McGrail Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve & Stand-Up Comedy Shows

Not sure what wine to drink tonight? This is the TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairing for anyone who may be feeling indecisive. It’s our flagship Cab and it’s aged in a blend of three different oaks, so you truly get the best of all worlds. This is what I encourage people to take with them when they’re visiting friends or family and they’re not really sure what to bring. It’s a gorgeous Cabernet with a lovely label, and is good on its own or paired with food. Here, it’s paired with the easiest popcorn recipe. Seriously, there’s only five ingredients in this Black Pepper BellaVitano popcorn recipe. Lastly, I’ve paired it with stand-up specials because everyone likes to laugh and stand-up is so easy to watch.


Not only are there an overwhelming amount of shows to stream on various platforms, there are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of stand-up comedy specials to choose from; not all of them are even that funny or worth your time, but there’s literally no way to know that until you’ve watch approximately ten minutes or so of each. I’ve picked a few of my favorite highly rated stand-up specials and listed them here, so you don’t have to spend hours flicking through Netflix (and yes, all of the shows listed here are on Netflix). I tried my best to choose a wide variety of comedy styles, with at least one that should appeal to every kind of person, but again, they are my personal picks and I prefer my comedy to be slightly profane. The trailers linked below can help you get a feel for each of these comic’s styles.


Ali Wong: Hard Knock Wife (2018)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 100%
  • “Ali Wong emerges a mother still perturbed in Hard Knock Wife, a hilariously honest hour of comedy that highlights the joys and oh boys of motherhood with fearless energy and just the right amount of squirmy detail.” – Rotten Tomatoes
  • Watch on Netflix.
  • Preview here.

Chris Rock: Tamborine (2018)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 100%
  • “Chris Rock reasserts his credentials as one of comedy’s preeminent figures in Tamborine, an introspective standup act delivered with fresh sensitivity and trademark exuberance.” – Rotten Tomatoes
  • Stream on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.
Image courtesy of Netflix.com

Dave Chapelle: Collection 1 (2017)

The Age of Spin and Deep in the Heart of Texas

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 92%
  • “Chappelle is back and better than ever in the honest, provocative, and insightful Dave Chappelle: Collection 1 which offers moments for both laughter and contemplation.” – Rotten Tomatoes
  • Stream on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Patton Oswalt: Annihilation (2017)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 100%
  • “A disarmingly perceptive exploration of loss, Patton Oswalt: Annihilation finds the comic deftly balancing his off-beat humor with a profoundly cathartic edge.” – Rotten Tomatoes
  • Stream on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here. Though the trailer would suggest otherwise, it’s worth mentioning the majority of Oswalt’s stand-up special touches on his experience in grieving the loss of his late wife, using humor to make his transition to widower a little more bearable.
Image courtesy of imdb.com

Seth Myers: Lobby Baby (2017)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 75%
  • Stream on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Jack Whitehall: At Large (2017)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 83%
  • Stream on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.
Image courtesy of imdb.com

John Mulaney: Kid Gorgeous at Radio City (2018)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 100%
  • “John Mulaney incisively describes his own befuddlement with the modern world in this uproariously funny deconstruction of manners, relationships, and religion.” – Rotten Tomatoes
  • Watch on Netflix.
  • Preview here.

Hannah Gadsby: Douglas (2020)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 92%
  • “Humorously human and poignantly hilarious, Douglas is an expertly constructed hour of comedy that further affirms Hannah Gadsby’s mastery of her craft.” – Rotten Tomatoes
  • Stream on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.
Image courtesy of imdb.com

McGrail Clone 8 Cabernet Sauvignon & Feel-Good Reality Television Shows

While not all reality TV is lighthearted or even real for that matter, these shows seem to fit both of those categories impressively well. Like our Clone 8 Cab, these shows are down-to-earth. Their true colors are easy to pick up, just as our Clone 8 brilliantly highlights the best of our estate terroir, with beautifully earthy and herbaceous notes, which pair excellently with its popcorn pairing. Enjoy the realness of this TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairing!


Queer Eye (2018-Present)

Image courtesy of imdb.com

Rated TV-14

Anyone who loves a good glow up will love Queer Eye. No matter your age, gender, or economic status, the Fab Five is sure to sashay into your heart during the very first episode. Johnathan, Tan, Antoni, Karamo, and Bobby entirely make over the lives of drab American men (usually) who are down on their luck. If you’re looking for something uplifting and heartwarming to watch, look no further. You’ll laugh, cry, and drop your jaw in awe, as the Fab Five completely transform and inspire each episode’s subject, like an ugly caterpillar into a majestic butterfly. Rotten Tomatoes gives Queer Eye a rating of 93%.

Watch on Netflix.

Preview here.


The Amazing Race (2001-Present)

Image courtesy of CBS.com

Rated TV-PG

I know we all wish we were on vacation right now. Well, with the Amazing Race, you can be (virtually at least). This fast-paced race around the world takes you to the most unexpected places, while being entertained by the teams’ imminent external and internal dramas, travel errors, linguistic and cultural challenges, and simply the excitement of making it around the world in just a matter of days. You’ll stayed glued to the TV, as you never know what to expect with the Amazing Race, but it’s always great fun! Rotten Tomatoes gives it a rating of 72%.

Watch on Hulu, YouTube TV, CBS All Access, fuboTV, and Amazon Prime Video. Episodes may be purchased on YouTube, iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, and Vudu.

Watch the trailer for season 32 here.


Survivor (2000-Present)

  • Rated TV-PG
  • Watch on Netflix, Hulu, CBS, or Amazon Prime Video. Individual episodes can be bought on YouTube, iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, or Vudu.
  • Preview season 40 here.

What Not to Wear (2003-2013)

  • Rated TV-PG
  • Stream on Hulu, YouTube TV, Amazon Prime Video, Discovery Plus, or Sling TV. Episodes can be purchased on YouTube, iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, or Vudu.
  • Instead of a trailer, here’s a compilation of the show’s best makeovers from 2011.

McGrail Clone 15 Cabernet Sauvignon & Murder Dramas

Dark and mysterious, this TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairing hits the sweet, savory, and harshly acidic parts of your palate. The fruit, umami, and acid flavors of the wine come through with the pomegranate balsamic and sharp cheese of the popcorn. Just as it’s difficult to keep yourself from bingeing these shows, it’s no easier to put down the wine and popcorn.


Search Party (2016-Present)

Image courtesy of imdb.com

Rated TV-MA

Alia Shawkat (known for playing Maeby from Arrested Development) is Dory Sief, a 20-something hipster, who works as an assistant for an uber-wealthy housewife in New York City and continuously allows others to walk all over her. When she discovers an acquaintance from college has gone missing, she asks her squad of university buddies to help her find Chantal. Their hunt takes a turn for the worse when Dory starts having an affair with a Private Investigator in defiance of her boyfriend Drew. The comedy throughout the series is plentiful, especially in scenes involving Dory’s friends Elliott and Portia, as is the suspense and adventure. I’ve been hooked on this show since the beginning and am crossing my fingers for a fifth season. Rotten Tomatoes said Search Party is about “four self-centered twentysomethings who gather together in the wake of their college acquaintance’s vanishing“ and rated it 97%.

Stream Search Party on HBO Max or YouTube TV. Episodes can be bought on iTunes, Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, or Vudu.

Watch the trailer for season 1 here.


Barry (2018-Present)

Image courtesy of imdb.com

Rated TV-MA

Former SNL cast member Bill Hader stars as title character Barry in this dark comedy about a lowly hit man and former U.S. marine in pursuit of a new career. He joins an acting class when the Chechen mafia assigns him to kill off one of his actor classmates. Barry becomes enamored with actress Sally and acting coach Mr. Cousineau (played by Henry Winkler) and decides to continue his schooling in entertainment. Of course, his attempt to disassociate from his career in assassination proves to be more difficult than he hopes for it to be. Even though this series is plenty dark, there are many laughable moments, because a show boasting legendary comics just has to be funny. Hader enforces his astounding versatility in this role, which afforded him a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series in 2019. Rotten Tomatoes gives Barry a 99% rating.

Stream Barry on HBO Max, Hulu, YouTube TV, or Amazon Prime Video. Buy episodes on YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, or Vudu.

Watch the season 1 trailer here.


The Outsider (2020)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 91%
  • Watch it on HBO Max, Hulu, YouTube TV, or Amazon Prime Video.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Flight Attendant (2020-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 98%
  • Watch on HBO Max or YouTube TV.
  • Preview here.

You (2018-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 90%
  • Watch on Netflix or purchase episodes on Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, YouTube, and Vudu.
  • Preview season 1 here.

Deep Water (2017)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Stream on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, or Sling TV. Purchase individual episodes on YouTube, iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, or Vudu.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Criminal Minds (2005-2020)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Watch on Netflix , Hulu, YouTube TV, or Philo. Purchase episodes on Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, YouTube, and Vudu.
  • Preview the final season here.

Dexter (2006-2013)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 71%
  • Stream on Hulu, YouTube TV, Showtime, Amazon Prime Video, Sling TV, or fuboTV. Purchase individual episodes on YouTube, iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, or Vudu.
  • Watch the trailer here.

McGrail Family Chardonnay & Family, Friendship, & Romance Dramas

Is there anything more comforting than a bowl of ramen? Imagine these warm savory Japanese noodles, but in popcorn form. Add a glass of your favorite Chardonnay and some of the most heartwarming television shows alongside that popcorn and you’re basically in heaven. That’s this TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairing!


Parenthood (2010-2015)

Image courtesy of imdb.com

Rated TV-PG

This emotion-provoking drama series features an ensemble cast, with stars like Dax Shepherd, Craig T. Nelson, Lauren Graham, and Ray Romano, to name a few. The show is set in the Bay Area and focuses on the lives of the Braverman family, who are faced with many of the challenges that parents and families of today’s society often experience. Some of these trials include accommodating a child diagnosed with a learning or social disability, teaching biracial children to embrace their multicultural identities, accepting and loving those who belong to the LGBTQ+ community, single parenthood, and adoption. The Braverman family tugs at your heartstrings, as they do their best to make it through life’s unpredictable obstacles, while sticking closely to one another. Rotten Tomatoes called Parenthood “a comedy-drama following a large and imperfect family as they tackle the challenges of raising kids and starting over after setbacks” with an 88% rating.

Find Parenthood on Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or Peacock. Episodes may be purchase on iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, YouTube, and Vudu.

Watch the trailer here.


The Kominsky Method (2018-Present)

Image courtesy of imdb.com

Rated TV-MA

Michael Douglas and Alan Arkin star in this Netflix series directed by Chuck Lorre. Sandy Kominsky (played by Douglas) is a once-famous actor-turned-acting-coach making his living in retirement by teaching. Kominsky’s longtime agent, confidant, and best friend (played by Arkin) joins Kominsky in the roller coaster ride that is life. This clever story was awarded the Golden Globe for Best Television Series in Comedy in 2018 (and was again nominated the following year), while that same year Douglas was awarded the Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Television Series in Comedy (and was again nominated in 2019). Rotten Tomatoes said “the sun isn’t setting yet on the once famous Sandy Kominsky and his longtime agent Norman Newlander” and gave the show a 90% rating.

Find the Kominsky Method on Netflix.

Preview here.


Grace and Frankie (2015-2021)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 88%
  • Watch on Netflix.
  • Preview here.

Modern Family (2009-2020)

  • Rated TV-PG
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 85%
  • Buy on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, and Vudu.
  • Watch the trailer here.

This Is Us (2016-Present)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 93%
  • New episodes air on NBC. Stream on Peacock, NBC, Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling TV, or fuboTV. Episodes may be purchased on various platforms.
  • Preview here.

Grey’s Anatomy (2005-Present)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 84%
  • New episodes premiere on ABC. Watch on Netflix, Hulu, ABC, YouTube TV, fuboTV, or Philo. Episodes may be purchased on various platforms.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Life in Pieces (2015-2019)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Watch on Hulu or Amazon Prime Video, or purchase episodes on YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, or Vudu.
  • Preview here.

Virgin River (2019-2020)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 71%
  • Stream on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.

McGrail Merlot & Crime & Action Dramas

This full-bodied Merlot can sometimes be overlooked because of Merlot’s reputation, but just like these bold and heavy shows and popcorn pairing, this wine can hold its own. It’s truly a diamond in the rough, quite similarly to some of the characters in these shows. The wine and popcorn duo could be a meal in itself. Don’t underestimate this pleasing pick-me-up of a TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairing.


Sons of Anarchy (2008-2014)

Image courtesy of imdb.com

Rated TV-MA

Jax Teller, an integral member of a notorious California biker gang, finds himself questioning his loyalty to his club, as the group’s lawlessness becomes unmanageable. The Sam Crowe chapter of Sons of Anarchy is known for running arms through Northern California’s Central Valley and attempting to keep rival gangs from doing the same. The gang certainly appears cold-blooded on the outside, and though some are heartless, most of the crew are simple human beings, just trying to make it through life. Teller is tied to the club by his late father, one of its most valuable members ever, who ultimately found himself in the same position as Jax–wondering if it’s all worth it. The show is heartbreaking, riveting, and action-packed all at once. Charlie Hunnam, who plays Teller is easy on the eyes, which definitely helps to keep viewers engaged. Rotten Tomatoes gave SOA an 83% rating.

Watch SOA on Hulu. Episodes may be purchased on YouTube, iTunes, Vudu, Amazon Prime Video, or Google Play Movies & TV.

Preview here.


Better Call Saul (2015-2021)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 97%
  • Watch on Netflix. Get individual episodes on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, or Vudu.
  • Preview here.

Ozark (2017-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 81%
  • Stream on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Breaking Bad (2008-2013)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 96%
  • Watch one Netflix. Individual episodes can be purchased on YouTube, iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Vudu.
  • Preview here.

True Detective (2014-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 78%
  • Watch on HBO Max, Hulu, YouTube, and Amazon Prime Video. Individual episodes may be bought on various platforms.
  • Watch the season 1 trailer here.

Patriot Cabernet Sauvignon & American Criminal Justice Series

It’s only right that our most patriotic wine and our wine for a cause (as a portion of the sales goes to helping fund education for children of first responders killed in the line of duty) be paired with television shows honoring our heroes. The brown butter dark chocolate toasted hazelnut popcorn will keep you buckled into your seat for your binge-watching these series and the incredible flavors of vanilla and cocoa in the wine will be your partner through it all. Enjoy this excellent criminal justice TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairing!


The Wire (2002-2008)

Image courtesy of HBOMax.com

Rated TV-MA

Based in Baltimore, Maryland, the Wire puts a magnifying glass to the narcotics division of the Baltimore Police Department, looking at both the point of view of the dealers and users and that of law enforcement. Starring Dominic West, Michael K. Williams, and Idris Elba, this five season series puts you in the shoes of the good guys and the bad guys and helps humanize each, with there being innumerable commonalities between both. Though fans of the Wire feel the show was snubbed at the Emmys, it did win several other awards, including a Peabody Award, and it was even praised by President Obama as one of his all-time favorite television shows. Rotten Tomatoes called it “a complex, impeccably acted crime drama” and gave it a 94% rating.

Watch the preview here.


Monk (2002-2009)

  • Rated TV-PG
  • Season 1 Rotten Tomatoes rating: 100%
  • Watch on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, fuboTV, Sling TV, Peacock, and Philo.
  • Preview here.

Longmire (2012-2017)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 88%
  • Stream on Netflix. Individual episodes can be purchased on YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Vudu.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Chicago P.D. (2014-Present)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Watch on NBC, Hulu, Peacock, YouTube TV, Sling TV, or fuboTV. Individual episodes can be bought on iTunes, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Amazon Prime Video, or Vudu.
  • Preview here.

Person of Interest (2011-2016)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 92%
  • Stream on HBO Max. Individual episodes may be purchased on iTunes, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Amazon Prime Video, or Vudu.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (1999-Present)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 78%
  • Watch new episodes on NBC. Stream on Hulu, YouTube TV, fuboTV, Peacock, or NBC. Individual episodes can be purchased on various platforms.
  • Preview here.

Watch our spoof on Law & Order: SVU here.

Blue Bloods (2010-Present)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Watch new episodes on CBS. Stream on Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, CBS, YouTube TV, or fuboTV. Individual episodes may be purchased on various platforms.
  • Preview season 1 here.

Peyton Paige Sauvignon Blanc & Bright Comedic & Romantic Young Adult Dramas

These series are just as bright and refreshing as our Peyton Paige Sauvignon Blanc, but of course with just as much pizzazz. Get involved with some zesty hot chili lime street corn popcorn for a little extra kick and you’ll soon be consumed with some exceptional flavors and entertainment with this TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairing!


The Politician (2019-Present)

Image courtesy of imdb.com

Rated TV-MA

Affluent Payton Hobart has been working tirelessly his entire life to one day become the president of the United States, but this dream must at least start with becoming his Santa Barbara high school’s student body president. He knows he’ll need this title to make it to Harvard and ultimately continue on to becoming president of the United States. His campaign toward student body president is foiled when undeniably handsome, popular jock River Barkley decides to also run for student body president. Tragedy strikes River and his campaign is handed off to his girlfriend Astrid, who also happens to be Payton’s arch nemesis since elementary school. Payton and his group of loyal political campaigners cook up various schemes, frequently overlooking basic morality, and will do anything and everything to snag the seat of student body president for Payton.

Stream the Politician on Netflix. Purchase episodes on Google Play Movies & TV, Vudu, and Amazon Prime Video.

Preview here.


Bridgerton (2020-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 89%
  • Watch on Netflix.
  • Preview here.

Hollywood (2020)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Stream on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Greek (2007-2011)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 75%
  • Watch on Freeform, Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling TV, or fuboTV.
  • Preview here.

Better Things (2016-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 97%
  • Stream on Hulu. Buy on Vudu, YouTube, iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, or Amazon Prime Video.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Glee (2009-2015)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 70%
  • Watch on Netflix or Amazon Prime Video. Episodes may be purchased on Google Play Movies & TV, YouTube, iTunes, and Vudu.
  • Preview here.

Jane the Virgin (2014-2019)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 100%
  • Stream on Netflix or purchase episodes on YouTube, iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, Amazon Prime Video, or Vudu.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Shamus Patrick Red Blend & Irreverent Comedies & Mockumentaries

As it’s the genre I would imagine our own “shameless Shamus” would appreciate, these series are true cheeky comedies. They may be difficult to watch for some, in that they are particularly crass, but anyone who can appreciate that type of humor can get hip to these shows. Comparable to one another, our Shamus Patrick Red Blend, these entertaining programs, and the taco popcorn are no bother to enjoy.


American Vandal (2017-2018)

Image courtesy of imdb.com

Rated TV-MA

In season 1 of this deadpan mockumentary, Jimmy Tatro portrays Dylan Maxwell, a crudely behaved high school student. Maxwell is expelled from his high school after being accused of spray-painting obscene, phallic images on 27 faculty cars. The dry, satirical docudrama is directed by aspiring filmography students who believe “known dick-drawer” Dylan is innocent. Accounts of the incident and Maxwell’s reputation are taken from both the school’s students and faculty over the course of eight episodes. Face is maintained something shocking through the childishly ludicrous, but truly comical subject matter. In season 2, our student documentarians return to chronicle a similar incident that occurs at another high school, with the substance just as callow and absurd as season 1. Rotten Tomatoes, which rated it 98%, called American Vandal addictive and said it “will leave one question on everyone’s minds until the very end: Who drew the dicks?”

Watch American Vandal on Netflix.

Preview here.


Shameless (2011-2021)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 81%
  • New episodes premiere on Showtime through April, 2021. Watch on Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, Showtime, Sling TV, or fuboTV. Episodes are available to purchase on various platforms.
  • Preview here.

Documentary Now! (2015-Present)

  • Rated TV-14
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 94%
  • Stream on Netflix, YouTube TV, fuboTV, Sling TV, or Philo. Buy episodes on YouTube, iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, or Amazon Prime Video.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Curb Your Enthusiasm (2000-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 92%
  • Watch on HBO Max, Hulu, or YouTube TV.
  • Preview season 10 here.

It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia (2005-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 94%
  • Watch new episodes on FX. Stream on Hulu, fuboTV, or Philo.
  • Watch the trailer for season 14 here.

Sláinte Red Blend & International Comedies

If there’s anything I’ve learned from binge-watching these streaming services, it’s that sometimes international comedy is just better. Don’t let me be the one to tell you that though; these shows have plenty of laughs waiting for you. Enjoy our salute to our Irish heritage, our Sláinte Red Blend, and some fun peanut butter, chocolate, and potato chip popcorn (my take on an Irish-American snack) with these European and Australian comedies. Don’t forget the subtitles with this TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairing!


Derry Girls (2018-Present)

Image courtesy of womentertainment.com

Rated TV-MA

Set in Londonderry, Northern Ireland in the 1990’s, this show follows the lives of a group of mischievous, misfit Catholic school girls. It offers historical accuracy in touching on the bloody sectarian conflict between the unionists and nationalists, but keeps you laughing through it all. With a cast that includes Nicola Coughlan and Saoirse-Monica Jackson and the ’90s soundtrack of any lass’s dreams, this program has it all. Rotten Tomatoes’ critics gave it a score of 98% and said it “makes frenetic light of teen life” in its setting. Watch Derry Girls on Netflix, but don’t forget to turn on the captions, as Derry accents are hardly intelligible to the American ear.

Watch Derry Girls on Netflix.

Preview here.


Fleabag (2016-2019)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 100%
  • Watch on Amazon Prime Video or purchase episodes on Google Play Movies & TV or Vudu.
  • Preview here.

Fresh Meat (2011-2016)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 87%
  • Stream on Amazon Prime Video or purchase episodes on iTunes.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Peep Show (2016-2019)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 96%
  • Watch on Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, or Crackle.
  • Preview here.

Crashing (2016)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Rotten Tomatoes rating: 83%
  • Stream on Netflix.
  • Watch the trailer here.

Lunatics (2019-Present)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Watch on Netflix.
  • Preview here.

Kath & Kim (2002-2007)

  • Rated TV-MA
  • Stream on Netflix or buy episodes on iTunes.
  • Since it was difficult to find a trailer, watch some of the show’s best moments here instead.

What did you think of these binge-worthy TV, gourmet popcorn, and wine pairings? Did you try any? We’d love to hear your feedback!

Cheers and enjoy!

Wine at Home

Cheesy Summer Squash Casserole & Chardonnay

By Laina Carter of McGrail Vineyards

Cheesy Summer Squash Casserole

If you’re anything like me, you live for the amazing fruits and veggies that come around during summer, but still, the quarantine hasn’t been great for your summer bod. Not being able to go to the gym and being stuck at home with a stocked fridge and an overflowing wine closet has physically put me more in a winter state than a summer one. Because of this, I’ve included some alternatives to certain ingredients and some optional steps, as to offer healthier versions of this scrumptious summertime supper. This cheesy summer squash casserole has become a go-to recipe for my family because it’s so easy to make!


Cheesy Summer Squash Casserole

Cheesy Summer Squash, Cauliflower, & Macaroni Casserole

Makes about 12 servings.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 tbsp. minced garlic
  • 3/4 cup chopped red onion
  • 12 oz. (about 4 cups) zucchini, thinly sliced
  • 12 oz. yellow squash, thinly sliced
  • Pepper to taste
  • 12 oz. steamed cauliflower
  • 12 oz. steamed broccoli
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked corn kernels
  • 1-2 cups shredded cheese blend (medium cheddar, Jarlsberg, and even a lite blend are fine), separated
  • 1-1 1/2 cups grated parmesan, separated
  • 3/4-1 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs, separated
  • Optional: 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 2 (6 oz.) packages of macaroni and cheese (I used Annie’s organic mac and cheese with 12g protein for a healthier alternative to regular Kraft)
Cheesy Summer Squash Casserole

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Pre-heat oven to 450 degrees F.
  2. Heat olive oil on medium-low in a large skillet. Add minced garlic and chopped onions and cook until soft and browned.
  3. Add sliced zucchini and squash. Season with pepper to taste. Cook thoroughly, until soft.
  4. In a large casserole tray (I used a 9″x13″ tray), break up your steamed cauliflower and broccoli into 1″ chunks. Sprinkle with pepper, cooked corn kernels, 3/4 cup shredded cheese blend (optional), 1/2 cup parmesan (optional), 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs (optional), and melted butter (optional).
  5. Evenly spread cooked zucchini and squash on top. Sprinkle 1/2 cup shredded cheese blend and 1/2 cup grated parmesan on top.
  6. Prepare your macaroni and cheese as directed on package.
  7. Evenly spread your prepared macaroni and cheese over the casserole pan. Sprinkle with remaining 3/4 cup cheese blend, 1/2 cup parmesan, and 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs. Add pepper to taste.
  8. Bake in oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling inside and the top is crispy and browned.
  9. Enjoy with a slightly chilled bottle of our McGrail Family Chardonnay!
Cheesy Summer Squash Casserole

I hope I’ve inspired you to make this delicious summertime casserole at home! Please let us know if you do try out this recipe. We’d love to hear from you!

Cheers and enjoy!

Wine at Home

McGrail Shelter-in-Place Innovative Instagram Photo Contest

DESCRIPTION:

We’ve shown you how innovative we can be with wine cocktails and wine pairings at home during the shelter-in-place. Before the shelter-in-place is over, we want to see your most innovative way to enjoy McGrail wine at home, by pairing it with the most creative meal, or by producing the most interestingly scrumptious McGrail wine cocktail! Beginning April 15th, 2020 through May 15th, 2020, we would like you to post photos of our wine on Instagram while tuning into your most resourceful self! 

Choose a McGrail wine and pair it with the most curiously delicious meal, using ingredients that are completely unexpected, but somehow combine to create a perfectly balanced pairing with the wine. Prefer an impressive cocktail to a tasty pairing? Instead of designing a great meal to go with our wine, utilize your favorite McGrail wine to conceive the most scrumptious McGrail wine cocktail imaginable! You read that correctly. We’re looking to award two of our most inventive patrons who can either come up with an incredible, Chopped-style wine and food pairing OR a visionary wine-based beverage. Extra points will be given to those who post a photo that is both alluring and aesthetically pleasing. Entries must also include a recipe for the pairing dish or cocktail. Each of these imaginative winners will be awarded a $50 gift card to the McGrail tasting room or online shop!

To enter, simply post a photo of your originative McGrail wine pairing or cocktail to a PUBLIC Instagram account, using BOTH hashtags #McGrailVineyards and #SIPMcGrailInnovation, and make sure to TAG and FOLLOW @mcgrail_vineyards. Don’t forget to include a recipe!

CONTEST RULES:

  • Photos must be posted on Instagram through a public account, using BOTH hashtags #McGrailVineyards and #McGrailInstagramInnovation AND tagging @mcgrail_vineyards.
  • Must be following @mcgrail_vineyards on Instagram for entry to be valid.
  • Must include detailed recipe for wine cocktail and/or wine pairing dish. Recipes may be included in the Instagram photo caption or may be sent via direct message to @McGrail_Vineyards account.
  • Must be 21 years of age or older to enter.
  • Posts may not:
    • Encourage excessive consumption of wine and/or alcohol
    • Encourage underage consumption of wine and/or alcohol
    • Include people under the age of 21
    • Encourage/include illegal activities of any kind
    • Make false claims about wine
    • State that there are any health benefits attached to the consumption of wine
    • Make lewd or obscene statements or include lewd or obscene comments 
  • By using the hashtag #SIPMcGrailInnovation and/or entering the contest, you are giving us permission to use your photo 

Winning photos will be announced at 4pm on Friday, May 29th. Happy innovating and good luck!

We look forward to seeing what you all come up with!

Wine Cocktails

Sip Chic Gracie Sparkling Cocktails During SIP

By Laina Carter of McGrail Vineyards & Winery

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably noticed the shelter-in-place has increased the need for hobbies and has brought out the best of the population’s creativity and resourcefulness, especially when it comes to culinary and mixology creations. I’m pretty sure I’ve spent more time preparing food and beverages in the past three weeks than I did for the entirety of 2019. With it becoming more dangerous to leave the house and to even go to the grocery store, I’ve got to be innovative with what I already have at home. Still, I know how important it is to support locally owned restaurants and I have been getting take out as much as my budget will permit. With a restricted budget that unfortunately won’t allow me to drink takeaway negronis and eat ahi nachos and rib eye for every meal, I’ve been making do with what I’ve got in my garden, my wine closet, and my pantry.

During my time as a Wine Business Strategies student at Sonoma State University, I was required to participate in a mixology project, in which students designed recipes for wine cocktails that would make the wine seem less stuffy and more sexy. Aside from this being a requirement for my Intro to Wine Business course, the projects would be entered into a competition amongst all course students at both Sonoma State and Texas Tech, judged by several Masters of Wine and other impressive wine industry professionals. For this project, my partner and I agreed on a lavender lemon mimosa cocktail, which was feminine, fragrant, and refreshing. With this recipe, our project was voted into the top three cocktails in our class, but went on to win first place in the competition between all Intro to Wine Business students at SSU and Texas Tech! While the recognition and the $250 cash award were exciting, the best part of this experience for me was learning about mixology. Since doing this project, I have been intrigued by the way wine interacts with other ingredients and how the combination of certain flavors can result in an absolute masterpiece or a total dud.

With lots of time at home and few ingredients to work with, I’ve come up with some completely innovative, yet chic cocktails, incorporating one of my favorite McGrail wines at the moment–the Gracie Sparkling Brut. Using fresh flowers, fruit, and herbs from my garden, a few ingredients from my pantry, and the adult beverages from my liquor cabinet, I’ve found a few delightful ways to complement my favorite bubbles.

Don’t worry if you don’t have any McGrail Gracie Sparkling Brut at home at the moment. We have several ways to get you these bubbles! We are currently offering:

  • Local home delivery at no additional cost for new orders
  • One cent shipping to anywhere in California for new orders
  • Drive-up service at the winery (receive wine without leaving your car)

Simple Syrups

Through my mixology research, I’ve discovered one of the ingredients that can be found in a vast assortment of cocktails is simple syrup. Made using equal parts water and sugar, it really is simple. Although sometimes simple is best, simple usually isn’t flavorful or interesting, which is why I decided to make some herb and floral-infused simple syrups with what I have at home and base each cocktail around these flavors.

Before you turn around and decide you don’t want to make these cocktails because the simple syrups are too much work, let me tell you, they’re NOT. It took me less than ten minutes to make each simple syrup. Every one of these recipes can easily be doubled or tripled to produce more and these tasty syrups are so versatile, they can also be used in coffee, tea, lemonade, and really any other beverage, not just cocktails.

If you don’t have all the ingredients to make them right now, ask your neighbors! I would be honored to give up some of my ginormous rosemary plant to someone who just needed a delicious cocktail to get through another day of shelter-in-place.


Lavender-Infused and Rosemary-Infused Simple Syrups

I first became acquainted with lavender simple syrup during my wine cocktail project at SSU and I fell in love immediately. I know floral flavors aren’t for everyone, but OMG, this stuff is special. Not only is lavender revered for its healing and medicinal properties, it also combats anxiety, depression, and insomnia. I think everyone could use a little bit of some relaxing lavender in their lives right now. I was excited to find my French and English lavender in bloom this past week, so I decided to dry a bunch of it. If you’ve never dried a bunch of lavender before, here‘s a quick how-to from HGTV. If you don’t have French or English lavender at home, dried buds can be purchased online through Amazon or Cost Plus World Market.

Another herb I tend to have a ton of in my garden is rosemary. I love the way it smells and tastes, especially when it’s fresh. Although it’s normally used in savory foods, it’s pretty versatile and can also be used in sweet drinks.

INGREDIENTS:
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 1/2 tbsp. dried lavender buds or 1/4 to 1/3 cup fresh rosemary leaves
DIRECTIONS:
  1. In a small saucepan, heat water, sugar, and lavender buds or rosemary leaves over medium, stirring frequently. Allow syrup to boil for two minutes, then remove from heat.
  2. Once cool, use a mesh strainer to strain away any excess debris from the syrup. Pour syrup into a container (I used mason jars) to store and place in the refrigerator.
  3. Enjoy in your Gracie Sparkling Brut cocktails or in coffee or tea. Store in the refrigerator and discard if not used within 30 days.

Rose Petal-Infused and Mint-Infused Simple Syrups

Though it isn’t really the season for roses to be in bloom, I was happy to find one of my rose bushes blooming this past week. Since this variety of rose is quite fragrant, I thought I could use some to make a simple syrup. I also chose to use some fresh mint to infuse into another simple syrup because it’s always plentiful in my garden. Since the rose petals and mint leaves aren’t as potent as the other herbs and flowers I used, these simple syrups were made a bit differently.

INGREDIENTS:
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/3 to 1/2 cup rose petals of a fragrant variety or fresh mint leaves, packed
DIRECTIONS:
  1. In a small saucepan, heat water, sugar, and rose petals or mint leaves over medium, stirring frequently. Allow syrup to boil for two minutes, then remove from heat.
  2. Once cool, pour syrup into a container (I used mason jars) to store and place in the refrigerator. Allow the rose petals or mint leaves to sit in the syrup for 12 to 24 hours, in order to maximize the flavor extraction.
  3. Once the rose petals or mint leaves have sat in the syrup for long enough, use a mesh strainer to strain away any excess debris from the syrup.
  4. Enjoy in your Gracie Sparkling Brut cocktails or in coffee or tea. Store in the refrigerator and discard if not used within 30 days.

Gracie Sparkling Brut Cocktails

Now for the fun part–the cocktails! I’ve based four cocktails around each of the aforementioned simple syrups I made. Albeit each cocktail is unique and interesting, all contain one very important ingredient: McGrail’s Gracie Sparkling Brut. This wine was made from a combination of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, using methode champenoise. It is dry, bubbly, and delicious, and with a lower percentage of alcohol than our other wines, it is great to use in cocktails!


Blueberry Lavender French 75

Okay, so obviously I have a thing for lavender-lemon drinks. I really loved the lavender-lemon wine cocktail I had created before, but I also want to change it up a bit for the sake of Gracie Sparkling. French 75s are one of my favorite cocktails, as they typically contain lemon, sugar, gin, and champagne–all tasty things. I’ve combined the lavender-lemon idea and the French 75, added some blueberries, and decided on botanical gin to coincide with the floral flavors of lavender. I love this drink.

INGREDIENTS:
  • About 15 organic blueberries
  • 1 oz. lavender simple syrup
  • 1 oz. botanical gin (I used St. George Botanivore, but I’ve heard Sidewinder Spirits has a killer botanical gin, too. Both distilleries are local.)
  • 1 oz. fresh-squeezed lemon juice
  • Ice
  • McGrail Gracie Sparkling Brut
  • Sprig of lavender for a garnish
DIRECTIONS:
  1. In a shaker, muddle blueberries. Add lavender simple syrup, gin, lemon juice, and ice. Shake well.
  2. Over a small-to-medium-sized cocktail glass, use a mesh strainer to sift out blueberry pulp and ice.
  3. Fill the rest of the glass with Gracie Sparkling Brut and garnish with a sprig of lavender. Enjoy!

Rosemary Grapefruit Mimosa

This one was tough. Fresh rosemary can be so potent it overpowers almost anything else you pair it with. At first, I tested out pear puree with the rosemary simple syrup and they tasted nice together, but the rosemary overtook the pear. Fresh grapefruit juice seemed to be pungent enough to match the rosemary simple syrup and the combination of the two is lovely. The rosemary makes this drink unlike any other.

INGREDIENTS:
  • 1/2 oz. rosemary simple syrup
  • 3/4 oz. vodka
  • 3/4 oz. fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice
  • Ice
  • McGrail Gracie Sparkling Brut
  • Sprig of fresh rosemary for a garnish
DIRECTIONS:
  1. In a shaker, combine rosemary simple syrup, vodka, grapefruit juice, and ice. Shake well.
  2. Remove top of shaker and pour into a champagne flute or a small cocktail glass. Fill the rest of the glass with Gracie Sparkling Brut and garnish with a sprig of rosemary. Cheers!

Blackberry Ginger Sparkling Mojito

What’s not to love about a mojito? They’re cool and thirst-quenching, but the same ol’ drink can get tiresome. I added spicy ginger, yummy blackberry, and sparkling wine components to this classic bevvy. YUM.

INGREDIENTS:
  • About 10 organic blackberries
  • 1 1/2 oz. mint simple syrup
  • 1 1/2 oz. white rum
  • 1 oz. fresh-squeezed lime juice
  • Ice
  • 1 1/2 oz. ginger beer
  • McGrail Gracie Sparkling Brut
  • Slice of fresh or candied ginger and/or a sprig of fresh mint for a garnish
DIRECTIONS:
  1. In a shaker, muddle blackberries. Add mint simple syrup, rum, lime juice, and ice. Shake well.
  2. Over a medium-to-large-sized cocktail glass, use a mesh strainer to sift out blackberry pulp and ice.
  3. Add the ginger beer, fill the rest of the glass with Gracie Sparkling Brut, and garnish with a sprig of mint. Enjoy!
    • OPTIONAL: If you are able to get your hands on fresh ginger, I recommend fresh-squeezing that ginger over this cocktail for a bit of an added health benefit and extra heat.

Rose Petal Raspberry Sparkler

Last, but certainly not least, the rose petal raspberry sparkler is probably the prettiest of all the cocktails, but also the simplest. The color is gorgeous and the flavor combo is both fruity and floral. The sparkling wine adds just the right amount of yeast and the end result is incredible.

INGREDIENTS:
  • About 8 organic raspberries
  • 1 1/2 oz. rose simple syrup
  • 1 oz. vodka
  • Ice
  • McGrail Gracie Sparkling Brut
  • A rose petal and/or an organic raspberry for a garnish
DIRECTIONS:
  1. In a shaker, muddle raspberries. Add rose simple syrup, vodka, and ice. Shake well.
  2. Over a small-to-medium-sized cocktail glass, use a mesh strainer to sift out raspberry pulp and ice.
  3. Fill the rest of the glass with Gracie Sparkling Brut and garnish with a rose petal or an organic raspberry. Cheers!

I know you’re probably ready for a cocktail at this point, but the last thing I wanted to share with you is a playlist of bubbly tunes that never fail to make me feel happy! Enjoy.


I hope I’ve inspired you to take advantage of what you have at home during these difficult times and I hope you enjoy these cocktails! Please let us know if you make any of these cocktails and if you have any feedback. We’d love to hear from you!

Cheers and enjoy!

Wine at Home

Shelter-in-Place Worldly Picture & Wine Pairings

By Laina Carter of McGrail Vineyards & Winery

Feeling bummed out because your months of planning a fabulous trip abroad, across the country, or even in-state were proved unavailing due to the shelter-in-place order? If you’re currently sheltered-in-place, it probably seems like you have a lot of time on your hands. That time doesn’t have to be spent sulking at home. Take a trip without leaving your couch! There are so many great international and national films available with just the push of a button through streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.

I’m a huge believer in the idea that wine can be paired with anything. Grab some popcorn, a cozy blanket, and a bottle of McGrail wine, because we’re about to take a (virtual) trip, while drinking delicious wine!

Don’t worry if you don’t have any of these wines at home at the moment. We have several ways to get you some tasty McGrail wine to enjoy with these fantastic flicks! We are currently offering:

  • Local home delivery at no additional cost for new orders
  • One cent shipping to anywhere in California for new orders
  • Drive-up service at the winery (receive wine without leaving your car)

International Movie & Wine Pairings

New Zealand – What We Do in the Shadows (2015) and 2016 A Jó Élet, “the Good Life,” Cabernet Sauvignon

Image courtesy of IMDB.com.

Rated R

This vampire mockumentary was directed by and stars New Zealand’s two most well-known movie actors and directors–Taika Waititi and Jermaine Clement. You might know Waititi as both the guy who plays Hitler in Jojo Rabbit and the director of the satirical film, for which he won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay in 2020. He’s also directed and acted in a few more notable movies and series, including Disney Plus’s The Mandalorian, Thor: Ragnarok, and another great New Zealand-based movie, Hunt for the Wilderpeople. You might recognize Jermaine Clement from the Grammy award-winning comedy duo, Flight of the Conchords, but he also has an extensive brag sheet of voice acting, writing, directing, and producing. Together, these guys created a comedy dream (or rather, nightmare) that is as spooky as it is hilarious. Rotten Tomatoes’ Critics gave this comedic flick a 96% rating and said it is “smarter, fresher, and funnier than a modern vampire movie has any right to be,” and called it “bloody good fun.” FX recently released a show with the same title name, based on this film, because it was that good!

I highly recommend pairing this bold, dark-humored picture with our equally bold and dark 2016 A Jó Élet, “the Good Life,” Cabernet Sauvignon and fresh-out-of-the-oven garlic bread, you know, to keep the vampires away…

Find this film on Amazon Prime Video for just $2.99 to rent or $8.99 to buy.

Watch the trailer here.


Ireland – Waking Ned Devine (1999) and 2017 Sláinte Red Blend

Image courtesy of IMDB.com.

Rated PG

When old pals Michael and Jackie discover someone in their teeny Irish village has won the lottery, they embark on a mission to find that person and get a share of their winnings. Upon uncovering the winner, a lad called Ned Devine, has passed from the shock of having won the lottery, they contact the lottery authorities and devise a plan to convince them that Mr. Devine is alive and able to collect his winnings. Rotten Tomatoes said, “A heartwarming comedy with a delightfully light touch, Waking Ned Devine finds feel-good humor in some unexpected — and unexpectedly effective — places.”

To get the full Irish experience, open a bottle of our 2017 Sláinte Red Blend and a bag of Irish crisps (potato chips to us Americans), preferably Tayto’s Cheese and Onion, to enjoy with this wine. American potato chips work fine, too.

Catch Waking Ned Devine on Amazon Prime Video for $3.99 to rent or $14.99 to buy.

Watch the trailer here.


Australia – Muriel’s Wedding (1994) and 2018 Peyton Paige Sauvignon Blanc

Image courtesy of amoeba.com.

Rated R

Social outcast Muriel, played by a young Toni Collette, is obsessed with marriage, fitting in, and being accepted, not only by her peers, but also by her local politician father. This was Collette’s fourth-ever acting credit, for which she gained a whole 40 pounds in just seven weeks, in order to truly embody Muriel. The movie has its fair share of both good-humored and tragic moments, as well as feathered 90’s hair and funky 90’s garb, and is an Australian classic. Rotten Tomatoes said, “heartfelt and quirky, though at times broad, Muriel’s Wedding mixes awkward comedy, oddball Australian characters, and a nostalgia-heavy soundtrack.” If you’ve never seen this movie and are in the mood for trying something wistful and new, watch this.

This film is best paired with our 2018 Peyton Paige Sauvignon Blanc, as it’s quite lovely, but has a bit of a bite to it (from the acidity), kind of like Muriel does. Enjoy with a side of Fairy Bread (white bread with margarine and sprinkles, or hundreds-and-thousands as they’re called in Oz), a disgustingly popular Australian snack in the 1990’s.

Find Muriel’s Wedding on Amazon Prime Video for $3.99 to rent or just $5.99 to buy.

Watch the trailer here.


China – The Farewell (2019) and Gracie Sparkling Brut

Image courtesy of IMDB.com.

Rated PG

Billi, a 30-year-old Chinese-American, and her adorably sweet grandmother, whom she refers to as Nai Nai, have always had a close relationship, despite the fact Nai Nai lives in China. When visiting her parents, Billi is told Nai Nai, her father’s mother, is dying of lung cancer and has just three months left to live. Given the news, Billi’s father’s family plans to gather from all over the world to see Nai Nai one last time, under the pretense that Billi’s cousin is getting married, as no one, including Nai Nai’s doctors, has told her she’s dying. Rotten Tomatoes’ critics gave the movie a 98% rating and said it “deftly captures complicated family dynamics with a poignant, well-acted drama that marries cultural specificity with universally relatable themes.” This film demonstrates what it truly means to be a family, but it doesn’t end the way you think it might. With a perfect balance of both tragedy and comedy, The Farewell will make you laugh out loud, but it will also make you weep.

Enjoy a bottle of our Gracie Sparkling Brut and take out dim sum from your favorite Chinese restaurant or grocery store as you watch this heartfelt film. That’s what Nai Nai would want you to do.

Watch The Farewell for free on Amazon Prime Video

Watch the preview here.


England – About Time (2013) and 2017 Austin James Cabernet Sauvignon

Image courtesy of flicks.co.nz.

Rated R

This movie, starring Rachel McAdams and Domhnall Gleeson, follows the romance between Tim and Mary, who first meet on a blind date through a pitch black dining experience in London. Though this sounds like the most genuinely interesting way to meet someone, this isn’t the most intriguing thing about the couple, as Tim has a huge secret: he can travel back in time. This romantic comedy was not at all what I expected it to be, as it twists and turns, unapologetically touching on heartache and true, unconditional love. Nevertheless, the English screenwriter of this film is Richard Curtis, who also did rom-com classics Love Actually, Notting Hill, and the later mentioned Four Weddings and a Funeral. You are guaranteed to fall in love with both the relationship between McAdams’s and Gleeson’s characters and the relationship between Tim and his father (played by Bill Nighy). You are also guaranteed a good, healthy cry. Rotten Tomatoes said “Beautifully filmed and unabashedly sincere, About Time finds director Richard Curtis at his most sentimental.”

Enjoy this film with our 2017 Austin James Cabernet, a robust, but a velvety and romantic wine and something slightly dark, slightly sweet, but satisfying (akin to this film), like dark chocolate peanut butter cups with sea salt.

Catch this movie on Netflix.

Watch the preview here.


South Korea – Parasite (2019) and 2016 James Vincent Cabernet Sauvignon

Image courtesy of IMDB.com.

Rated R

If you haven’t seen this film yet, you’re missing out. Korean director Bong Joon-ho nearly swept the 2020 Academy Awards with Parasite and it won the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film. Parasite follows an impoverished, but resourceful Kim family through their means of infiltrating the home and the lives of the wealthy Park family. Due to it being classified as both a comedy and a thriller, and because of its truly alluring aesthetics, you won’t be able to stop watching this film. Rotten Tomatoes’ critics gave Parasite a rating of 99% and said “An urgent, brilliantly layered look at timely social themes, Parasite finds writer-director Bong Joon Ho in near-total command of his craft.”

It is only fitting to enjoy Parasite with a bottle of our 2016 James Vincent Cabernet, a dark and mysterious wine, but also our top-of-the-line, award-winning Cabernet. Cook up a bowl of hot ram-don, this film’s most noteworthy dish, to enjoy, as well.

Rent this film for $5.99 on Amazon Prime Video or buy it for $14.99.

Watch the preview here.


Solvang and Central Coast, California – Sideways (2004) and 2016 McGrail Merlot, Picazo Vineyard

Image courtesy of Amazon.com.

Rated R

An essential watch for wine lovers, Sideways captures the essence of the true California wine snob. Published writer Miles is kind of a depressed mess, but one that possesses a deep enthusiasm and respect for wine. With just days remaining before the wedding of his friend Jack, Miles takes his soon-to-be-wed pal on a last fling trip through Solvang and the Central Coast wine country of California. Along the way, they meet beautiful lady friends, Stephanie and Maya, both of whom are blissfully unaware that Jack is only a few days away from being a married man. The trip quickly turns sour when Miles lets Jack’s secret slip to Maya. Sideways flaunts a talented cast, consisting of Paul Giamatti, Thomas Haden Church, Sandra Oh, and Virginia Madsen. Rotten Tomatoes gave this film a score of 97% and said “Charming, thoughtful, and often funny, Sideways is a decidedly mature road trip comedy full of excellent performances.”

You can’t watch Sideways without a glass of wine, but due to the way this film influenced wine drinkers’ perception of the varietal, you have to watch it with Merlot in your glass. Because we are a Cab house, our Merlot is built like a Cab, but still has Merlot’s classic characteristics, which is why we think even Paul Giamatti’s character would be happy to drink our take on this ill-famed varietal. Pair this film with our 2016 McGrail Merlot from Picazo Vineyard and a classic wine country charcuterie plate with the works–olives, salami, grapes, nuts, carrot or bell pepper sticks, a baguette, and wedges of stinky cheese.

Catch Sideways on Hulu or Amazon Prime Video ($3.99 to rent or $14.99 to buy).

Watch the preview for Sideways here.


Other Notable International Films

Czech Republic – Jojo Rabbit (2019)

Rated PG-13

Surprisingly, a movie that was meant to be set in Nazi Germany, was actually filmed in Prague. Like most WWII films, Jojo Rabbit has its painfully solemn scenes, but being a satire, this movie is mostly laughs. With it taking place at the end of the war, you get to see the Nazis defeated, which makes it that much better. The cast is composed of mainly A-list actors and with Taika Waititi as the director, you won’t be disappointed. Rotten Tomatoes said “Jojo Rabbit‘s blend of irreverent humor and serious ideas definitely won’t be to everyone’s taste — but either way, this anti-hate satire is audacious to a fault.” Buy it for $19.99 or rent it for $5.99 on Amazon Prime Video.


England – Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994)

Rated R

Four Weddings and a Funeral is a brilliantly dark-humored English film, starring several A-list actors of the 1990’s, including Andie McDowell and Hugh Grant. The movie was directed by seasoned English Director Mike Newell, who also directed several other well-known films, like Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire and Mona Lisa Smile. Rotten Tomatoes’ critics gave this comedy a 96% rating. Rent this movie for $2.99 or buy it for $14.99 on Amazon Prime Video.


France – La Vie en Rose (2007)

Rated PG-13

This French film was the first movie in which an Academy Award for Best Actress was awarded for a French-language role. Marion Cotillard portrays brothel-born, charismatic entertainer Edith Piaf in this visually stunning biopic, which puts Piaf’s addictions, relationships, and losses under a microscope. Rotten Tomatoes said “the set design and cinematography are impressive, but the real achievement of La Vie en Rose is Marion Cotillard’s mesmerizing, wholly convincing performance as Edith Piaf.” Rent La Vie en Rose on Amazon Prime Video for $3.99 or buy for $7.99.


Germany – Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Rated R

Like Jojo Rabbit, this movie can be categorized as both a comedy and a war film. Director Quentin Tarantino knows how to create excitement organically and make an audience laugh through suspense and gore. He uses an ensemble cast to depict Germany’s occupation of France (even though this was mostly filmed in Potsdam, Germany), as Brad Pitt’s character gathers an army of Jewish soldiers to employ vicious tactics against the Nazis. Rotten Tomatoes said, “a classic Tarantino genre-blending thrill ride, Inglourious Basterds is violent, unrestrained, and thoroughly entertaining.” Watch Inglourious Basterds on Netflix.


Germany – The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)

Rated R

Yep, the movie containing “Budapest” in the title wasn’t actually filmed in Hungary at all, but rather in Dresden, Germany. The film boasts an amazingly talented cast, with names like Bill Murray, Ralph Fiennes, Tilda Swinton, Saoirse Ronan, Jeff Goldblum, Willem Dafoe, Jason Schwartzman, and more! Don’t let me tell you how grand this movie is. If you haven’t seen this quirky Wes Anderson film, do yourself a favor and rent it for just $3.99 on Amazon Prime Video. Rotten Tomatoes’ Critics gave it a 91% rating. 


India – Lion (2016)

Rated PG-13

Based on a true story, Lion follows the life of Saroo, a five-year-old boy from a poor Indian family who one day falls asleep on the train and wakes to find he has traveled thousands of miles across India, away from his family. He learns to survive on his own in Kolkata, but is eventually adopted by an Australian couple. Twenty-five years later, Saroo leaves to find his family, using Google Earth to help him find his way home. Rotten Tomatoes said “Lion‘s undeniably uplifting story and talented cast make it a moving journey that transcends the typical cliches of its genre.” Rent Lion on Amazon Prime Video for $3.99 or buy it for just $4.99.


Ireland – P.S. I Love You (2007)

Rated PG-13

I almost never have the guts to turn this movie on when I see it playing on TV, because it never fails to make me cry. If you’ve ever been to Ireland, you know it’s an incredible country. This mostly melancholy romantic comedy does a really excellent job of showing off all of Ireland’s most stunning aspects. You can find this tear-jerker on Netflix.


Italy – Murder Mystery (2019)

Rated PG-13

As is to be expected of any Adam Sandler movie, Murder Mystery is slightly hokey, but he and Jennifer Aniston make a great pair. Still, this movie effectively builds up the whodunnit mystery throughout the film and does so in a manner that isn’t blatantly obvious. It also really shows off some of the most magnificent parts of Italy and other European destinations. I am excited to say I was actually staying on Lake Como in the same village, at the same time the last few scenes were being filmed. I even caught a glimpse of Sandler’s stunt double! Find this movie on Netflix.


Italy – Life Is Beautiful (1997)

Rated PG-13

A charming Jewish-Italian man romances a beautiful, but engaged school teacher, who eventually falls in love with and marries her new suitor. The couple have a son, whom they clearly adore more than anything. When Nazis invade Italy, the father and son are taken to a concentration camp and heartbreak follows. The father does all he can to keep his son from realizing the true horrors of WWII by providing comedic relief. Though it is somewhat predictable, the movie uses comedy to be as lovely, but as realistic, as any war film can be. Rotten Tomatoes said Life Is Beautiful “offers the possibility of hope in the face of unflinching horror.” Rent it on Amazon Prime Video for $3.99 or buy for $7.99.


Japan – Isle of Dogs (2018)

Rated PG-13

Being Wes Anderson’s second animated film, Isle of Dogs does a wonderful job of using incredibly detailed stop motion animation to convey sound, movement, texture, depth, and emotion. When Mayor Kobayashi declares all dogs are to be quarantined on Trash Island, one Japanese boy sets out to retrieve his lost dog “Spots” and Trash Island’s residents, both stray and previously owned, assemble to help him. Isle of Dogs is quirky and adorable. Rotten Tomatoes’ critics gave this film a 90% score. Watch it on Amazon Prime Video–$3.99 to rent or $14.99 to buy.


Mexico – Roma (2018)

Rated R

Roma takes place in Mexico City in the 1970’s and follows young caretaker Cleo. Cleo, who cares for four children, is stunned when she finds out the children’s father has run away with his mistress and that Cleo, herself is pregnant. Rotten Tomatoes’ Critics gave it a 95% rating and said “Roma finds writer-director Alfonso Cuarón in complete, enthralling command of his visual craft – and telling the most powerfully personal story of his career.” Watch Roma on Netflix.


New Zealand – Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)

Rated PG-13

When rebellious Ricky Baker is taken to his most recent foster home, he and his new mum quickly form a bond, though his new dad is not so quick to latch on. Tragedy strikes Ricky’s new family and he runs away into the New Zealand wilderness, only to soon be accompanied by his foster father. Ricky and his new dad become the subjects of a manhunt after getting lost. Rotten Tomatoes’ critics gave Hunt for the Wilderpeople, directed by Taika Waititi, a 96% rating and said it “unites a solid cast, a talented filmmaker, and a poignant, funny, deeply affecting message.” Rent it for $2.99 or buy it for only $6.99 on Amazon Prime Video.


Northern Ireland – Derry Girls (2018-2019)

Not Rated

Though it’s not a movie, Derry Girls, a brilliant British comedy series, is definitely worth mentioning. Set in Londonderry, Northern Ireland in the 1990’s, this show follows the lives of a group of mischievous, misfit Catholic school girls. It offers historical accuracy in touching on the bloody sectarian conflict between the unionists and nationalists, but keeps you laughing through it all. Rotten Tomatoes’ critics gave it a score of 98% and said it “makes frenetic light of teen life” in its setting. Watch Derry Girls on Netflix, but don’t forget to turn on the captions, as Derry accents are hardly intelligible to the American ear. 


Sweden – The 101-Year-Old Man Who Skipped Out on the Bill and Disappeared (2016)

Rated MA

Notorious and widely-disliked Allan Karlsson has lived a long, remarkable life. On his 101st birthday, Allan is reminded of his time working as a spy, during which he had stolen a soda recipe from the Russian government to give to American President Richard Nixon. He remembers he still has the formula for this highly revered Folksoda hidden somewhere in the world and he, his pet monkey, his dimwit caretaker, and his best pal embark on a journey to find it. Hilarity and frenzy ensue, as details of Karlsson’s wild life emerge through old memories during his new adventures. This movie is most certainly silly, but it also has its sweet and sentimental moments. I don’t know how better to describe it than being like a Swedish, geriatric version of The Hangover. Watch it on Netflix.


Notable American Destination Films

Hollywood, California – Once Upon A Time…In Hollywood (2019)

Rated R

Amazon Prime – $9.99 to rent or $19.99 to buy


Napa Valley, California – Bottle Shock (2008)

Rated PG-13

Free on Amazon Prime Video


Napa Valley, California – Wine Country (2019)

Rated R

Available on Netflix


New York, New York – The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)

Rated R

Amazon Prime Video – $2.99 to rent, $9.99 to buy


New York, New York – You’ve Got Mail (1998)

Rated PG

Amazon Prime Video – $3.99 to rent, $9.99 to buy


Rhode Island and East Coast, United States – Moonrise Kingdom (2012) 

Rated PG-13 

Amazon Prime Video – $3.99 to rent, $11.99 to buy


Seattle, Washington – Sleepless In Seattle (1993)

Rated PG

Amazon Prime Video – $2.99 to rent, $12.99 to buy)


What did you think of these wine and movie pairings? Did you try any? We’d love to hear your feedback!

Cheers and enjoy!

Wine Production

Qs and As with Our Winemaker, Mark Clarin

By Mark Clarin, Heather McGrail, and Laina Carter of McGrail Vineyards

If you’ve ever been to a McGrail Vineyards Release Party or Barrel Tasting Weekend at McGrail, you’ve likely spoken to or seen Mark Clarin. You’ve probably even seen him jamming downtown, at other wineries, or local breweries, in one of the various bands he belongs to. Mark, standing at approximately 6′ 4″, is known for rocking a horseshoe mustache, tie-dye tees, cargo shorts, flip flops, and a ponytail. He is nearly impossible to miss. His unmistakable style isn’t even the thing that makes him stand out the most; his wine is pretty extraordinary, too.

We asked Mark to answer some questions about himself, as well as about what he’s got going on in the vineyard now and what happens in the vineyard at McGrail in the early springtime. Allow us to introduce you to our winemaker, Mark Clarin, through some quick Qs and As. We hope you find his answers both humorous and valuable, as we did, and we hope it gives you a better understanding of why we love our talented, but goofy winemaker so much.


Question: Can you tell us just a little bit about yourself? Are you married? Do you have kids? 

Answer: I am married with children–a boy and a girl. The girl has a girl, so I am a grandpa called Poppy.


Q: What is your background in the wine industry and how did you get into wine?

A: Winemaking found me! I got a job at a local winery when I was 20 years old. Prior to that, I was in construction. I grew up in Livermore and sort of fell into the business. I have always been drawn to hard work and art. I’m a musician as well, which has an interesting correlation to winemaking. In music, you have to learn when not to play. With winemaking, you have to be patient and learn when not to panic. Wine is a living thing and is constantly changing. Knowing what to do when is the key, which is similar to music. 


Q: When did you first start at McGrail?

A: I started consulting in 2006, before crush.


Q: What is your favorite McGrail memory?

A: While giving a tour a few years ago, I had a customer ask me what I do all year, because I only have to work, like, two weeks per year. It was insulting, yet funny. I work at least four weeks a year. Sheesh.


Q: What do you love most about working at McGrail Vineyards? 

A: There are so many things to like. Number one is the team. When we first started producing wine, we made a plan to focus on making great wine. Our primary focus has been Cabernet Sauvignon, which is the king of wine in my mind. We have added a few varieties over the years, but our original goal remains the same–to make great wine. 

The property is amazing with spectacular views which I get to visit every day. The estate vineyard is world class and we added the Lucky 8 vineyard in 2015. This affords us the unique opportunity to control our farming, in order to make the best wines possible. This circles back to the original plan. 

I cannot forget our club members. We have the best club members, many of whom have been with us from the beginning. Without them I have no reason to make wine.


Q: What is the most interesting thing you’ve learned at McGrail so far?

A: How to install a giant flagpole on release Saturday with a bunch of high school kids.


Q: What is your favorite thing about working with Cabernet Sauvignon?

A: It is the king of wine. It grows exceptionally well here in the Livermore Valley. It is a small berry with thick skin and loose clusters that afford good air flow to minimize disease. Cabernet can take a little rain in the fall, as long as it doesn’t rain for more than a couple of days and we get wind to help dry things out. Other tighter cluster varieties don’t have that luxury. Cabernet is very consistent year to year for us. This is important, as we try to make sure the wines stay consistently great. I do like to drink it, too. 


Q: What is going on in the vineyard during bud break and what does it signify to you as a winemaker?

A: During bud break, the dormant vines show the first green growth of the year. The buds unfurl small leaves that continue to grow (up to 1” per day!), as shoots, tendrils, and tiny pre-clusters develop. Bud break signifies a new vintage on the horizon and another opportunity to make some amazing wine. It is always an exciting and optimistic time to be in the vineyard, as it confirms the circle of life. 


Q: Why is Lucky 8 usually the first vineyard to show bud break each year?

A: In 2016 we planted Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Since that time, our Chardonnay pushes buds first, followed by the Sauvignon Blanc. This is common throughout the valley. Our hillside Cabernet Sauvignon is usually the first of that variety to break bud. The Lucky 8 vineyard is a bit cooler than our estate vineyard, but Chardonnay is an early ripener, and therefore, an early bud breaker.


Q: What does a typical day in early spring look like for you?

A: Springtime is time for blending, which requires a fair amount of sampling and tasting. Topping off barrels is a continuous task throughout the year. It is also time to review the barrel order to take advantage of any early order opportunities. Keeping an eye on the vineyard as the buds begin to push and we begin a new year. I am fortunate that I am in the vineyard every day, if only for a brief moment. Usually, we have some sort of reason to get together and taste with our club members. We also bottle quite a bit of our production in the spring.


Q: What is your favorite winemaking memory? 

A: Barrel fermenting Cabernet Sauvignon in a cave. Very labor intensive, but fun.

Photo by Ron Essex.

Q: If you could make wine anywhere else in the world, where would it be, and why? 

A: Douro Valley, Portugal. The vineyards are grown on steep slopes made up of shale. Everything has to be done by hand in the vineyard. The people are very nice and the weather is similar to California. The soil comes through in the wine with lots of minerality. I have not been to the Rhone, which I could probably get used to quickly.


Q: What would you like people to know about you?

A: I am generally happy. I am very tolerant, but once you lose my respect you will never get it back.


Q: Would you care to share an embarrassing story about yourself?

A: While visiting another winery, a staff member named Joy handed me a glass of what I assumed was their Rose and asked my opinion. I responded with something like, “well, it doesn’t suck”. It turned out to be my Rose because she tricked me.


Q: What is your favorite movie and why?

A: The Wizard of Oz. I love the songwriting. Very clever.


Q: Is there anything people would be surprised to learn about you? 

A: I sometimes talk in my sleep and I hear that I snore, but I haven’t caught myself yet.


Q: What is your favorite wine & food pairing? 

A: Beef tenderloin and Cabernet Sauvignon.


Get a taste of Mark’s winemaking abilities yourself! Purchase McGrail wine here.

Food and Wine Pairings

Fresh Heirloom Tomato Gnocchi and C. Tarantino Cabernet Sauvignon

By Laina Carter of McGrail Vineyards & Winery

There’s something so special about Italian food. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I find it impossible to dislike Italian food. The ingredients are so, incredibly wholesome and versatile. Italian dishes are just plain comforting and delicious.

Vintage after vintage, our C. Tarantino Cabernet Sauvignon continues to be one of my absolute favorite wines we produce. I can always count on it being fruit-forward and drinkable as soon as it’s released. My favorite vintage was the 2013 and despite being so drinkable when it was released, this wine is aging beautifully. I’d say the 2017 vintage is quite similar to the 2013. Consistently, the C. Tarantino Cab has gorgeous acidity, which makes it the absolute perfect wine to pair with Italian dishes. I’m not sure if it’s the soil the grapes are grown in, if it’s the grape clone (337, which is different from what we have on our estate and our Lucky 8 Vineyard), or if it’s even the way the sun hits the vines in the summertime, but something about this wine is simply magical.

If you were lucky enough to receive this fabulous wine in your most recent club shipment, whip it out and try this pairing for yourself. We are a few bottles shy of selling out of the 2017 vintage of this Cab, so if you want to try this pairing, don’t wait. Get a bottle now. I promise you won’t be disappointed by this pairing!

Heirloom Tomato, Fresh Basil, and Mozzarella Potato Gnocchi Paired with our 2017 C. Tarantino Cabernet Sauvignon

Makes about 6 servings

INGREDIENTS:

  • 3 tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 tbsp. fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 lbs. whole mini heirloom tomatoes
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 lbs. shelf-stable potato gnocchi, cooked according to package directions
  • 3/4 cup fresh basil
  • 1 cup roasted garlic marinara sauce
  • 8 oz. ciliegine mozzarella balls, cut into quarters
  • Grated pecorino romano and parmesan blend cheese 

DIRECTIONS:

  1. In a 12-inch cast iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. 
  2. Add the garlic to the skillet. Cook until slightly browned. 
  3. Add mini heirloom tomatoes.
  4. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Prepare the potato gnocchi according to package directions.
  6. Cook garlic and tomatoes in skillet for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes begin to soften.
  7. Add the gnocchi to the skillet. Cook until heated through.
  8. Stir in ½ cup of the fresh basil and the marinara sauce.
  9. Add the mozzarella. Stir until it just begins to melt.
  10. Plate the gnocchi and sprinkle the pecorino romano and parmesan cheese blend over each plate. Garnish with remaining basil.
  11. Enjoy this delicious dish with a glass or two of our 2017 C. Tarantino Cabernet Sauvignon!

Please let us know if you end up making this pairing and if you have any feedback! We’d love to hear it.

Cheers and enjoy!

Wine at Home

Cast-Iron Skillet Chimichurri Rib Eye and “The Good Life”…

By Laina Carter of McGrail Vineyards & Winery

Have you ever tried something that is so extraordinarily flavorful that you just can’t get enough of it? This is how I feel about McGrail wine… and chimichurri sauce. Accordingly, this pairing has a TON of flavor.

What Is Chimichurri?

Wondering what the heck chimichurri is? Basically, it’s an herb-based sauce made primarily using raw or uncooked ingredients. It can be red (chimichurri rojo) or green (chimichurrri verde), depending on what kind of herbs are used. It pretty much always contains garlic, parsley, oregano, and vinegar, but there are countless variations of this scrumptious sauce.

No one seems to be totally sure about chimichurri’s origin. Some believe it derived from the Basque region’s “tximitxurri” sauce, as the pronunciations are very similar, though the ingredients are not. Others think it was loosely based off of Sicily’s salmoriglio sauce, as both typically contain parsley, oregano, and garlic. Since the English always seemed to stick their head in everyone’s business back in the day, there are some people who insist it was called “Jimmy’s curry,” “Jimmy Curry,” or even “Jimmy McCurry,” after an English lad who joined in the fight for Argentina’s independence, and some who believe it was the result of an English prisoner asking for condiments to season his meat, after England’s attempt to invade Argentina failed. There are many myths as to where chimichurri sauce came from exactly, but at this point in its history, it is most commonly found in Argentine or Uruguayan cuisine.

A Jó Élet, “The Good Life”

“A jó élet” is a Hungarian phrase, which roughly translates to “the good life” in English. This bottle of estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon is aged for nearly 30 months in 100% brand new Hungarian oak barrels. These barrels are sourced from two different coopers, both of whom use tight grain oak from the Zempelén Forest. This wine demonstrates a classic Cabernet Sauvignon bouquet of dark cherry, cassis, and vanilla, but also offers the notes of baking spice and bold tannins that you would expect from a wine that has been aged for over two years in brand new Hungarian oak. The Good Life is rich and full-bodied with notes of leather, herbs, and white pepper, which makes this the perfect wine to pair with a chimichurri rib eye steak. When you pair this wine with this dish, there is no doubt you’re living the good life.

I hope you’re excited to try this recipe at home, because I seriously can’t wait to make this pairing again! This is probably my favorite food and wine pairing so far.

Cast-Iron Skillet Chimichurri Rib Eye with Fingerling Potatoes & Crimini Mushrooms Paired with 2016 A Jó Élet, “The Good Life,” Cabernet Sauvignon

Makes about 4 servings.

INGREDIENTS:

For the marinade:

  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/3 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 3 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
  • 1 ½ tbsp. minced garlic 
  • 2 lbs. rib eye steak (2 thick cuts of meat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the chimichurri sauce:

  • 1 cup fresh parsley, stems removed, packed
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro, stems removed, packed
  • 1 tbsp. fresh oregano, stems removed, packed
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • ½ medium onion, diced
  • 1 tbsp. garlic
  • 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice
  • 2 tbsp. orange juice
  • 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ tsp. cumin
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper

For the sides:

  • 2 small shallots, halved
  • 6 whole garlic cloves
  • 10 oz. sliced crimini mushrooms
  • 1 lb. golden fingerling potatoes
  • 3 tbsp. olive oil
  • Optional: fresh sprigs of rosemary and/or thyme

DIRECTIONS:

To marinate and season the rib eye:

  1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk all rib eye marinade ingredients together, except for the salt, pepper, and rib eye. 
  2. Place the rib eye in a gallon-sized ziploc bag and add the marinade to the bag. Make sure the meat is completely covered by the marinade and place in the refrigerator for 3-6 hours, depending on how thick the meat is (longer if the meat is thicker).
  3. When ready to place the rib eye in the skillet, liberally season it with salt and pepper.

To make the chimichurri sauce:

  1. In a food processor, add all chimichurri sauce ingredients and blend until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Store chimichurri sauce leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last several days without browning.

To prepare the sides:

  1. In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of well-salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the fingerling potatoes and boil until soft, about 15 minutes.
  3. Strain the potatoes and set aside.

To cook the rib eye and sides:

  1. In a 12-inch cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic cloves and halved shallots. Cook until slightly browned.
  3. Add sliced crimini mushrooms. Cook mushrooms with the garlic and shallots, stirring occasionally, until they become soft. 
  4. Using a spatula, move the mushrooms, garlic, and shallots to one side of the pan. Add the rib eye steaks and about half of the marinade in the ziploc bag. Add the fingerling potatoes over the mushrooms, garlic, and shallots, and stir, so they are evenly covered in marinade. Add the optional sprigs of rosemary or thyme.
  5. For medium-rare steak, cook the steaks for about six minutes on each side, flipping after about three minutes (twelve minutes total, four intervals of three minutes). Add about 3-5 minutes to total cooking time if you like your meat well done.

To serve:

  1. Once cooked to desired done-ness, plate the steaks and vegetables. Spoon the chimichurri sauce over the steaks.
  2. Enjoy this flavorful plate with a glass of our 2016 A Jó Élet “The Good Life” Cabernet Sauvignon!

Please let us know if you end up making this pairing and if you have any feedback! We’d love to hear it.

Cheers and enjoy!

DIY Wine Crafts

DIY Luxurious Five-Ingredient Rosé Face Mask

By Laina Carter of McGrail Vineyards & Winery

Who doesn’t like to treat themselves every once in a while? Pour a glass of our 2019 Kylie Ryan Rosé and keep reading.

Whether you do or don’t have a sweetheart this Valentine’s Day, it’s always important to shower yourself with affection. Like Justin Bieber, I’m a firm believer in loving yourself. After all, you are the most important person in your own life, and really, you can’t love someone else full-heartedly if you don’t love yourself first. Taking a moment for yourself every once in awhile is imperative in being able to truly appreciate life.

I’ve created a simple recipe for a nourishing face mask you can do at home with just what’s in your pantry or fridge. I’ve exclusively chosen ingredients that have antibacterial, antiseptic, and antioxidant properties. Not only will this make your skin feel super soft and smooth, it smells and feels incredibly luxurious, AND it requires just a tiny bit of Rosé, so you can have the rest for yourself!

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Pour yourself a glass of our 2019 Kylie Ryan Rosé if you haven’t already.
  2. Warm the honey so it’s a little runny. I put it in a small microwaveable dish and microwaved it for just ten seconds to get the perfect consistency.
  3. Combine the Rosé, honey, yogurt, sugar, and essential grapefruit oil. Mix well. It will be a little watery.
  4. Stick the face mask mixture in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
  5. Steam your face by wetting a folded wash cloth and sticking it the microwave for 30 seconds, then holding it on your face for 2-4 minutes. Make sure the wash cloth isn’t too hot before putting it on your face.
  6. Pull the mask out of the refrigerator and use clean fingers to apply liberally to your face, taking care to not to get the mask in your mouth or eyes.
  7. Allow the mask to dry on your face, 5-7 minutes.
  8. Rinse your face well.
  9. Enjoy the rest of your Kylie Ryan Rosé!
Food and Wine Pairings

Spring-Inspired Citrus Salad & Rosé Pairing

By Laina Carter of McGrail Vineyards

If you’re anything like me, you live for spring and summer. Not only do these seasons bless us with incredible fresh fruits and veggies, the warmer weather just makes me feel alive. Still, the best part of spring and summer is that I can finally sip on chilled wine comfortably.

There’s truly nothing like that first sunny, 75˚F day of the year. You inexplicably begin to feel relaxed, allowing the sunshine to warm your skin and taking in as much vitamin D as your body will allow. The sweet smell of blooming jasmine sailing through the air subconsciously tells you that springtime is here.

Unfortunately for those who live in California, it’s sometimes difficult to pinpoint exactly what season it actually is. According to “the Twelve Seasons of California,” we are just at the beginning of our second winter. Our recent fool’s spring was the inspiration for this sunny pairing.

Aside from the deceptive seasons, living in California is fabulous! We have access to the freshest produce in the country, and obviously, the finest wine as well. I combined the best of each of these things to create this lovely pairing!

The first notes you get from our delightful 2019 Kylie Ryan Rosé are gorgeous notes of bright grapefruit, which is why I began with citrus as the main star of this dish. Right now, you can find all sorts of exquisite citrus fruits at the grocery store–mandarin oranges, Cara Cara oranges, blood oranges, grapefruits, navel oranges, and more. I decided on a nutty, peppery baby arugula and creamy avocado and burrata as the secondary attraction to the salad, to complement the citrus and to sort of balance out one another. Since these ingredients are all so light and refreshing, I thought pistachios would add a nice crunch and make a great additional source of protein. I love the little bit of kick you get from chives and green onions, which is why it was a no-brainer for me to choose them to spice this plate up. I decided to go with a lighter-bodied dressing, so as to not overpower the main ingredients. Lastly, I threw in some deliciously spicy shallots and fresh-cracked rainbow pepper to add a nice bite to the finish and balance out the slightly creamy finish on the Rosé.

Ingredients:

Salad Ingredients:

  • 7 oz. organic baby arugula
  • 2 pink grapefruits
  • 3 Cara Cara oranges
  • 3 blood oranges
  • 4 mandarin oranges
  • 2 navel oranges
  • 2 avocados
  • 8 oz. burrata cheese (2 pieces)
  • ⅛ oz. chives, minced
  • 3 green onion stems, thinly sliced
  • ⅓ cup roasted, unsalted pistachios, chopped into small pieces

Vinaigrette Ingredients:

  • 1 medium shallot, peeled and thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup white Modena vinegar
  • ⅓ cup pasteurized orange juice
  • ¼ cup virgin olive oil
  • ¼ tsp. pink Himalayan sea salt
  • ¼ tsp. fresh cracked rainbow pepper

Optional:

Enjoy with a bit of garlic sourdough bread or ciabatta toast on the side.

Directions:

  1. Using a small, sharp knife, peel and remove skins from grapefruits, navel oranges, cara cara oranges, blood oranges, and mandarin oranges. Cut into ⅓” thick round slices.
  2. Evenly divide the baby arugula onto 4 plates to create a bed on each. Evenly divide the citrus fruit between four plates.
  3. Slice the avocados and add ¼ to ½ of each onto each plate. Cut each piece of burrata in half and add one half to each plate. 
  4. In a small dish, combine the shallot slices, white Modena vinegar, orange juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create the vinaigrette dressing. 
  5. Drizzle a bit of the vinaigrette over each plate.
  6. Sprinkle the minced chives, green onion slices, and pistachio pieces over each salad. 
  7. Enjoy with a glass of our 2019 Kylie Ryan Rosé!

Please let us know if you end up making this pairing and if you have any feedback! We’d love to hear it.

Cheers and enjoy!