September 13th, 2024

Anyone who loves grilled chicken should keep one thing in mind about wine pairing, don’t rule out today’s Merlots. They are bigger than past vintages and are an essential pairing choice. Also, with the wide variety of Merlots on the market, there’s always a good one to match your favorite chicken seasoning style.

There are the big Merlots (nearly like Cabernets). They harmonize with entrees like chicken slathered in honey barbeque sauce.

But there are also more delicate Merlots. These will go perfectly with lighter preparations like slightly browned chicken breast sprinkled with Montreal Chicken seasoning.

Ancient Peaks Merlot at Phoenix Area AJs

But when it comes to pairing grilled chicken with Caribbean Jerk sauce, you need a special kind of Merlot. These are what some refer to simply as having “pizazz”. How about a smoky pepper finish to supply that pizazz? With that combo you’ve got a Merlot made for jerk chicken, even if the sauce has a lot of seasoning.

One winery that produces such a Merlot is Ancient Peaks Winery of Paso Robles California. Their 2021 Merlot features an inviting bouquet of dark cherries & currant, plus an herb component that’s hard to describe. Pair that with jerk barbeque and you have a winner!

Their Merlot really plays along with the seasonings, pronounced and centered. Its relatively light body does not compete or add to the jerk’s spiciness. It compliments it. The wine’s acid balance and mild but structured tannins will round off your jerk chicken with excellence.

There is even a future for burgers with this one too. This is because Ancient Peaks understands barbeque.

Why is this so? ‘Cause you’re dealing with BBQ pros. They live in an ambiance of Early California rancho hospitality. That’s basically what defines the Ancient Peaks winery and vineyard. Plus, three longtime local winegrowing and ranching families still own and run it; with a history that goes back far.

Mike Sinor, their founding Central Coast winemaker, manages the final character of these creations. Many of his wines score consistently in the mid 90’s when rated. He has extensive training in the art of French winemaking, and it shows. Thanks Mike!

You can find the Ancient Peaks wines at Whole Foods or Ajs in the $20 range. Talking Stick resort in Scottsdale also features Ancient Peaks vinos on their wine list.

Enjoy today, but this Merlot will improve on the rack for 5-7 more years. Here’s to California’s endless varieties of “terroir”. And happy grilling this football season!