We are thrilled to welcome our Holy McGrail Wine Club Members to our brand new lounge, located in the barrel room at McGrail Vineyards.
Holy McGrail Wine Club Members
The Members Lounge has been updated with farm-style tables for you and your family to enjoy McGrail wines
Members Lounge is open to Wine Club Members and up to 5 guests at any given time. Our farm tables are communal and available first come, first serve. Please note that the Lounge is setup to enjoy wine by the glass or bottle.
For wine tasting, please book a reservation on the patio or taste at our front bar before or after enjoying the lounge.
Our members lounge is located in our barrel room and is open on non-event, weekend days. We have communal seating at farm tables available on a first come, first serve basis. This room is open to Holy McGrail Wine Club Members. We do not make reservations for this room as it is designed for those on property before or after their tastings. Please make sure to book a tasting on the patio or at the front bar before or after you enjoy the lounge. While we love your furry friends, only service animals are allowed. Children are welcome to join their parents in the members lounge, but must remain seated.
This was our first wine release party at the vineyard and we had a wonderful time. Delicious wine, yummy pizza, and loved the saxophone music! Thank you.
Heather McGrail shares our February release wines from the Livermore Valley!
Winter Wines getting us through the Cold!
As the temperatures are cool, picking up a nice glass of Cabernet warms you from the inside out. In February we release three Cabernets and our Cabernet based Rosé that is definitely a fan favorite!
Kylie Ryan Rosé
Named after my oldest daughter, Kylie Ryan, the Rosé is refreshing, easy sipping, and a great wine to pair with all kinds of food! Our 2022 Kylie Ryan Rosé was fermented in both stainless steel and experienced red wine barrels, with about 10% fermented in oak and the remaining 90% fermented in stainless steel. A complex wine with a bouquet of raspberries, clover honey, green apple and watermelon jolly rancher. The palate is light and bright with notes of lemon verbena, hint of strawberry, and a cherry candy finish. This wine is fermented bone dry and pairs nicely with a meal or poolside! Pair with chicken and waffles, garden salad with oranges and beets, or a pulled pork slider with apple and mango slaw. This is a red wine lover’s rosé.
C. Tarantino Cabernet Sauvignon
Our 2020 C. Tarantino Cabernet is a beautiful garnet red. This wine opens with boysenberry taking the lead and aromas of bright cherry, black plum, cassis, and violet following. The palate is layered with boysenberry, cassis, cigar box notes, and butterscotch. The wine finishes with a hint of anise and the wine is beautifully blanched with great acidity and tannins. This wine is the most drinkable now and will continue to age well. Pair this with BBQ pork nachos and pickled onions, pulled pork sandwich, or a delicious pot roast.
Timeless Cabernet Sauvignon
Our Timeless Cabernet is dark burgundy red. A rustic wine with a bouquet of cherry, blackberry, vanilla, and chanterelle mushrooms. Hints of black pepper and vanilla linger with cassis and sweet night jasmine. The palate is complex with plum, tobacco leaf, and spiced nutmeg married with the dark fruit notes of blackberry and cherry. The finish is long with dark roasted coffee notes. This wine pairs nicely with steamed dumplings with a ginger hoisin sauce, grilled chicken with a black mole sauce, or roasted duck.
A Jó Élet – The Good Life Cabernet Sauvignon
Our A Jó Élet, The Good Life Cabernet, is a deep, dark burgundy red. This elegant California Cabernet offers bold and ripe aromas of cherry, red plum, blackberry compote, baking spices all with a subtle hint of sweet roses. The fruit is balanced by earthy characteristics including black pepper, oregano, thyme, and winter baking spices. As this wine opens, the complexity of flavors arise and the ripe fruit is complemented with cocoa, dried tea leaves, fennel, nutmeg, clove, and vanilla. The tannins are bold and leave an exceptionally long finish with luscious, mouth-coating tannins. Pair this wine with brisket based beef bourguignon, hanger steak and asparagus, or meatballs.
Heather McGrail shares our newest released wines all from the Livermore Valley!
Our Family Release
We are so excited to share the family series of wines with you. Each of these wines are named after grandkids, besides the James Vincent, which is named after my Father, the co-founder. We hope you enjoys these as much as we do.
Charlie Rae Chardonnay
A favorite of mine! The Charlie Rae Chardonnay is named after my sweet and spunky niece, Charlotte Rae. The California style Chardonnay is rich, creamy, buttery, but balanced by bright fruit. This wine stands alone, but I recently enjoyed it with baked brie wrapped in phyllo dough, apple slices, and candied walnuts.
Austin James Cabernet Sauvignon
Charlie’s older brother is Austin James and he is the 2nd oldest Grandson in the family. This fruit driven Cabernet has black cherry, boysenberry, and blackberry. The fruit elegantly blends with the milk chocolate and vanilla notes and is decadent! I recently paired this with the most delicious Chocolate Cherry brownies, try this one!
Chocolate Cherry Brownies paired with Austin James Cabernet
Cook time: 40 min
Servings: 10
Ingredients:
½ Cup Unsalted Butter
1 ¼ Cups Sugar
1 tbs Canola Oil
2 large eggs
2 tsp Vanilla Extract
½ Cup Flour
½ Cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 Tbs Cornstarch
¼ Tsp. Salt
1 Cup Dark Chocolate Chips
1 Cup Frozen pitted cherries
A handful of fresh cherries
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F & line a 9 x 9-inch square pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, oil, and sugar with a hand mixer on high until the mixture is smooth. Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract and mix all together.
3. Add flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt and mix again until well-combined, making sure your batter is smooth and free of clumps.
4. Fold in your chocolate chips and frozen cherries *Reserve a handful of each to add on top
5. Use a spatula to transfer the batter into your lined pan, smoothing it out to spread the batter evenly throughout the pan. Place reserved cherries, fresh cherries, and chocolate chips on top
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes. Allow to cool completely before slicing. Pair with our 2020 Austin James Cabernet! Enjoy!
Shamus Patrick Red Blend
Shamus Patrick is named after the oldest grandson. This Bordeaux style blend is a gem! Perfect food pairing wine that starts with purple fruit notes such as plum and blackberries. Rose petal, sandalwood, and mulled wine spices are all evident if you have the patience to allow this complex wine to open up. I love to pair the Shamus Patrick with fettuccine pasta with beef and mushroom ragout!
James Vincent Cabernet Sauvignon
The James Vincent is named after my later father, Jim McGrail. This was the first vintage after his passing and I truly believe he had a hand in it from up above. It is one of my favorite vintages, elegant, bold, and velvety tannins. This wine opens with dark cherry, cassis, violet and vanilla. As the wine opens a bit you get more complex flavors and the toasty notes start to shine. Year after year, James Vincent continues to be one of our favorite wines! Pair this wine with a delicious filet mignon or a ribeye steak.
Our recent vintages inspire me. Each year our farming techniques make tiny tweaks and each year we learn a little more about the land, the irrigation, and better practices.
Regardless of the fact our winemaker isn’t always pleased with me when I make cocktails and other drinks that involve adding something to his wine, Mark and I both know some people LOVE that sort of thing, and in this business, it’s all about making customers happy. It’s fun, trendy, and just a change of pace. While discussing this sometimes sore subject with our SIP Club members, Mark mentioned having drunk Glögg (or did he call it Glühwein?) in his younger years.
What the heck am I talking about? Holiday mulled wine. Glögg and Glühwein are the Swedish and German names, respectively, for it. In Swedish, it translates to “glowing ember,” and in German, it means “glowing wine,” which seems to imply that this stuff can make you feel pretty dang good when you drink it. Mark recalled having a foggy memory after just one glass. Somehow he’s still quite fond of the stuff, but I’m curious to know exactly what was in it.
Traditionally, mulled wine contains baking spices, fruit, and wine, of course, and it’s typically drunk around Christmastime. It’s quite simple to make, but it sure can make you feel warm and fuzzy inside! This is an easy recipe I’ve made up using our Shamus Patrick Red Blend. We’re looking forward to sharing this with our SIP Club members this week!
Holiday Mulled Wine
Ingredients:
750mL bottle McGrail Shamus Patrick Red Blend
1 navel orange, sliced into rounds
1 lemon, sliced into rounds
2 star anise
10 whole cloves
3 cinnamon sticks
5 black pepper corns
1 bay leaf
2 tbsp. brown sugar
1/3 cup apple or orange juice (optional)
1/3 cup brandy, dark rum, or bourbon (optional)
1/2 cup whole cranberries, as a garnish (optional)
In a large sauce pan, combine Shamus Patrick Red Blend, orange slices, lemon slices, star anise, cloves, cinnamon sticks, black pepper corns, bay leaf, brown sugar, and optional juice and liquor. Stir to combine.
Heat the wine over medium-high, until it just reaches a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Do not allow to boil, as this could cook out the alcohol. Allow to simmer for at least 15 minutes and up to three hours.
Use a mesh strainer to remove all non-liquid ingredients from wine before serving.
Serve warm in your favorite mug and garnish with cranberries or extra cinnamon sticks, while enjoying your favorite holiday movies.
What You Should Know About Mulled Wine
Glühwein is sometimes prepared “mit Schuss,” or with a shot, which is why I included the optional brandy or rum in the recipe.
If you somehow have leftover mulled wine, it should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and should ideally be consumed within three days.
To reheat the mulled wine, simply bring it to a simmer on low heat in a large sauce pan on the stove.
Fresh ginger, cardamom pods, nutmeg, allspice, and raisins can be added to mulled wine, depending on one’s personal preferences.
National Mulled Wine Day
Celebrate National Mulled Wine Day with us on March 3rd, 2021!
Please let us know if you make this warm holiday recipe and what your thoughts are! We love to hear from you.
Regardless of the fact our winemaker isn’t always pleased with me when I make cocktails and other drinks that involve adding something to his wine, Mark and I both know some people LOVE that sort of thing, and in this business, it’s all about making customers happy. It’s fun, trendy, and just a change of pace.
Sangria is perhaps one of the most popular drinks to create with wine. Traditionally, sangria contains chopped fruit, red wine, and some kind of spirit. It’s quite simple to make, but it sure can make you feel fun and festive! This is an easy recipe I’ve made up using our Red Blend. I hope you enjoy this holiday sangria recipe!
In a large punch bowl or very large pitcher, combine cranberries, chopped apples, chopped pears, orange slices, lime slices, lemon slices, pomegranate arils, cinnamon sticks, cloves, Cabernet, brandy, orange juice, and cranberry juice. Stir.
Chill for at least an hour. We’ve found that allowing it to sit overnight maximizes the fruit and spice flavors.
Add ginger beer, lemon lime soda, and sparkling water. Stir.
Serve over ice. Add rosemary sprigs and/or cinnamon sticks as a garnish.
Enjoy!
Please let us know if you make this holiday sangria recipe! We’d love to hear from you.
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!
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?
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.
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.*
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.
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.
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)
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)
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%.
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.
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)
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.
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.
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.”
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)
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.
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.
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)
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 Guyhere.
The Simpsons (1989-Present)
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 Burgershere.
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 Mortyhere.
Futurama (1999-2013)
Rated TV-PG
Rotten Tomatoes rating: 95%
Watch it on Comedy Central, Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling TV, or fuboTV.
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)
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.
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*
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.
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.
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)
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 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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
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 Strangerhere. View the trailer for the Fivehere. Watch the trailer for Safehere.
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%.
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
“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
“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
“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 tomake his transition to widower a little more bearable.
“John Mulaney incisively describes his own befuddlement with the modern world in this uproariously funny deconstruction of manners, relationships, and religion.” – Rotten Tomatoes
“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
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%.
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.
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.
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 it97%.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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?”
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.
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.
Autumn is a time to reflect and to give back. The leaves of the vine give back their carbohydrates to the vine to be stored in the root system for the winter. It is a very important piece in the cycle of life for a grapevine. The green leaves turn to beautiful colors of yellows, golds, and reds, as the vine takes back what was not needed to ripen the glorious clusters that we harvested at the end of summer.
Winegrowing requires attention in the vineyard all year long. The tasks change as the seasons change. This time of year, we are spreading compost and looking for grape stakes that need replacing. We are looking for volunteer plants and removing them. It always amazes me how many volunteer trees we get every year. This year we found over 40 trees on our Lucky 8 vineyard. Mother nature is prolific.
As I reflect on the vintage 2020, I remember an almost perfect growing season. The fires during the harvest created less than ideal working conditions, but we seem to have come through relatively unscathed. Tasting through the vintage confirms that our efforts throughout the year in the vineyard are worth it in the glass.
A new season means new tunes…
Enjoy our playlist featuring dormancy ditties as part of our December vineyard updates!
Please let us know your thoughts on our December vineyard updates. Did you learn anything in particular? What did you find the most interesting? We’d love to hear from you!
By Mark Clarin and Laina Carter of McGrail Vineyards
Autumn is just around the corner, but in the vineyard a new season has already begun! Harvest has started here at McGrail Vineyards and we want to share this new chapter with you. We asked Winemaker Mark Clarin to share his thoughts on our 2020 vintage to give our friends an idea of what can be expected of our newest vintage!
The vintage has been almost picture perfect this year. We had adequate rainfall, along with an early budbreak. The weather through bloom was dry and mild. No mess, no stress, as they say. Summer has been moderately warm, up until the end of August, and then bam–heatwave, thunder and lightning, fire, smoke and more heat! This is definitely going to be an interesting harvest season. There is no telling how the apocalypse will affect the wines. After 41 crushes, I keep telling anyone who will listen that every vintage is different, though some are more memorable than others.
We kicked off our vintage on August 22nd this year, as we harvested Sauvignon Blanc from our Lucky 8 Vineyard. It was a smoke-filled day and everyone wore masks during the processing. The masks were doing double duty as we are trying to protect from COVID-19, as well as the smoke.
Harvest at McGrail Vineyards
We followed up with Chardonnay on the 8th of September. The trend is an early harvest so far and I anticipate it to continue. We are getting ready to pick Malbec and Merlot for Rose and we will be about 25% through picking this year.
Yields so far have been good and the fruit quality is excellent! The juice tastes great and I hope the finished ferments will be just as good. In general, we are picking about a week or so earlier than last year. If all goes well, I’ll be on vacation mid-October.
-Mark Clarin, Winemaker
Harvest at McGrail Vineyards
Harvest at McGrail Vineyards
A new season means new tunes.
Jump into the new season with our sounds of harvest…
This week we were super excited to be providing all of our SIP Club members with herbs from the Calhoun family ranch (my family’s ranch) here in Livermore! A lot of these herbs are wild, but can be found literally on the side of the road or near local creek beds. If you’ve ever had a Coyote Smash at Range Life, you’ve probably already had these herbs unknowingly, as my aunt Nancy is the one who sells them to Range Life for this specific cocktail, as well as for other uses, I’m sure. We included them with this week’s SIP package, so members could create an herbs de Provence seasoning to make one of the following recipes to pair with the Austin James Cabernet Sauvignon at home!
To create this seasoning, you will need the following fresh ingredients:
1-2 bay laurel leaves (Laurus nobilis)
1-3 stems of rosemary
1-4 stems of fennel
1-5 stems of sagebrush (Artemisia californica)
1-2 leaves of common sage
1-3 chives
2 sprigs of Portuguese lavender
French lavender sprigs and flowers
Oregano sprigs
Mint sprigs
If you have any of the following fresh herbs or seeds at home, please feel free to add them to your bag of herbs to dry and ultimately use in your herbs de Provence seasoning:
Italian parsley leaves
Thyme leaves
Basil leaves
Summer savory leaves
Fennel seeds
Celery seeds
Tarragon leaves
Chervil leaves
If you have any of the aforementioned herbs or seeds at home that have already been dried, they may be added to the dry seasoning, as well.
Before preparing your herbs to dry, we highly encourage you to wash them, but to take extra care when doing so.
Bay leaves: These are heartier plants than the other herbs and can just be rinsed with water or washed by using a produce wash to clean them.
Lavender: When washing the lavender sprigs and flowers, take extra care to not lose the buds, as these are the most important part of the flower. If the buds do fall off the sprigs, make sure to hold onto them. We recommend removing the stems and using a mesh strainer to wash the flowers and/or buds. Wash the lavender flowers or buds by running them through water.
The remaining herbs are somewhat fragile and special care should be taken when washing them. They can be washed by rinsing them under cold water. It’s important to try not to crush the herbs when washing them, as this can cause them to lose their flavor.
If possible, remove the stems of the rosemary, mint, fennel, bay leaves, common sage, oregano, sagebrush, and pineapple sage, after washing and before allowing them to dry, as this will allow the leaves to dry out faster.
Once your herbs have been washed, they should be prepared to dry. Put your herbs in a new, paper bag with holes or in a clean, plastic bin with holes in it and place them in a warm, dry area of your home.
Once your herbs are dry or almost dry, you will prepare them to use in your herbs de Provence seasoning.
You will use:
1-3 bay leaves (we recommend using a smaller portion of bay leaves because they can be very pungent and overpower some of the other herbs)
All rosemary, fennel, sagebrush, common sage, oregano, mint, and pineapple sage leaves
All chives
All lavender buds
The exact portion of each herb you use doesn’t really matter, unless you’d like to replicate your recipe later. Play around with each herb and see which you find most appealing to your palate, then add more of that to your herbs de Provence.
Remove the stems of the bay leaves, rosemary, fennel, sagebrush, lavender sprigs, oregano sprigs, mint sprigs, and pineapple sage sprigs. Dispose of the stems.
Put the remaining bay leaves in an airtight container to use for future cooking. Use within a year for maximum flavor.
Grind the bay leaves as fine as you possibly can. These leaves are very stiff and can be unpleasant to ingest when they are not finely ground.
If you do not own a grinder, use clean, dry hands to crunch up the leaves into small pieces. You may want to remove the spines of the leaves, as these tend to be the stiffest parts.
Next, grind the rosemary, fennel, sagebrush, common sage, chives, oregano, mint, and pineapple sage. Mix well with the ground bay leaves.
Mix lavender buds with your herb mixture.
Store your herbs de Provence seasoning in an airtight container in a warm, dry area of your home. Use within six months for maximal flavor.
Here are three delicious ways to enjoy your herbs de Provence seasoning at home:
Herbs de Provence Seasoned-Steak and McGrail Cabernet Sauvignon
Ingredients:
1 tbsp. herbs de Provence
2 tsp. freshly cracked pepper
2 tsp. kosher salt
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tbsp. olive oil
2 16 oz. rib eye or New York steaks
Directions:
In a small bowl, combine herbs de Provence, freshly cracked pepper, kosher salt, minced garlic, and olive oil. Mix well to create a paste.
Rub each steak evenly on both sides with the seasoning mixture.
Allow steaks to sit with seasoning for 30 minutes or until they reach room temperature.
Pre-heat grill on medium-high.
Grill steaks for about five to six minutes on each side for a medium-rare doneness. Grill for longer if you prefer a medium or well-done steak.
Enjoy steak with a bottle of McGrail Cabernet Sauvignon!
Fresh Vegan Herb Mushroom Tomato Pasta
Ingredients:
8 oz. uncooked pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair)
4 tbsp. olive oil or vegan butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz. fresh crimini mushrooms, sliced into small pieces
8 oz. fresh mini heirloom tomatoes, quartered
1 tsp. herbs de Provence
1 tbsp. McGrail Cabernet Sauvignon
4 oz. vegan mozzarella (Miyoko’s VeganMozz is preferable)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Cook pasta according to package directions
Heat olive oil or vegan butter over medium heat. Brown minced garlic in vegan butter.
Add mushrooms, tomatoes, and herbs de Provence. Continue to cook over medium heat.
Add red wine and allow it to cook long enough to evaporate.
When mushrooms and tomatoes have been cooked through, add VeganMozz and allow to melt slightly.
In a large pasta bowl, add pasta, mushroom and tomato sauce, salt and pepper, and mix well.
Enjoy this pasta with a deliciously balanced McGrail Cabernet Sauvignon, like our Austin James.
Herbs de Provence Bread Dipping Oil
Ingredients:
2 ½ tbsp. olive oil
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tsp. herbs de Provence
1 tbsp. grated parmesan cheese
¼ tsp. freshly cracked pepper
¼ tsp. kosher salt
1 tbsp. aged balsamic vinegar
Bread for dipping
Directions:
Heat ½ tbsp. olive oil in a small frying pan. Brown minced garlic.
In a small bowl, combine browned garlic, herbs de Provence, parmesan, freshly cracked pepper, kosher salt, aged balsamic vinegar, and remaining olive oil. Mix well.
Use any kind of fresh bread to enjoy with dip, just don’t forget your glass of Austin James Cabernet Sauvignon!
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!
Livermore Valley
