Made Simple by Private Chef Robin
Family and friends gathered around a festive table laden with delicious food and fine wine is one of the most magical parts of the holiday season. To help you create unique, memorable and, best of all, stress-free holiday get-togethers, we invited Private Chef Robin, author, teacher and wine country chef extraordinaire to give you her best tips and share her favorite menus.
Brunch
Who says a party must be at night? A sun-lit gift exchange with savory fare is a fresh way to celebrate.
- Green Shakshuka – kale, spinach and baked eggs with feta cheese
- Frittata – spinach, leeks, onions, greens with goat cheese
- Avocado Toast – with condiments to make your own
Pair with: Champagne, Prosecco, Rosé or slightly chilled Pinot Noir
Wine Dinner
Elegant, classic and memorable.
- Appetizer –Baked Brie, Melted and Oozing with Caramelized Apples and Onions
A creamy Chardonnay is a wonderful pairing with this savory dish.
- First Course – Roasted Squash and Warm Farro with Slow-Roasted Grapes
Gewürztraminer’s floral character brings out the best in this salad.
- Main Course – Seared Pork Chops with Caramelized Grapes, Dried Fruit and Pistachios
The bright fruit flavors of Pinot Noir truly make this main course shine.
- Dessert – Dark Chocolate Wine Truffles
A bold Cabernet Sauvignon is an impeccable accompaniment to this after-dinner delight.
Remember to find Private Chef Robin’s detailed recipes on our website under: Recipes & Tips
Wine & Cheese Tasting
- Homemade Ricotta Cheese with Slow-Roasted Grapes
Riesling beautifully balances the sweet essence of this appetizer.
- Tomato Panini with Calabrian Chile Pesto
Serve with Sangiovese to experience an elevation of unique flavors.
- Warm Brie with Caramelized Apples and Onions
A creamy Chardonnay is a wonderful pairing with this savory dish.
- Chevre Stuffed Dates and Figs with Nuts
Sparkling wine works seamlessly to enhance each flavor of this decadent treat.
Holiday Party Tips
Do:
- Splurge on Invitations A handwritten note in the mail amidst holiday bills and catalogs sets the festive stage.
- Set the Table with Your Finest Pull the china and handed-down linens from storage along with Grandma’s silver.
- Mix with modern pieces For a look that’s current and fun!
- Use the Outdoors Dress your table with garden greenery, herbs, leaves, succulents, air plants, and blossoms.
- Light it Up Keep unscented candles and soft light evenly distributed to cast a flattering glow.
Don’t:
- Overdo the Drink Menu
A thoughtful, limited selection of wine or one specialty cocktail is plenty.
- Think Big
A hearty main course with a crisp salad can be just as merry as a four-course feast. Take-out served on pretty platters or a potluck is an easy way to entertain.
- Leave Everything to the Last Minute
Greet guests with music playing and drinks ready to go. Avoid dishes that require you to spend the evening in the kitchen.
- Regret the Cleanup
See each after-party glass and plate as a reminder of last night’s fun with friends.
About The California Wine Club
Discover great wine with The California Wine Club. Since 1990, it’s been our wine club’s mission to help artisan wineries share their small-batch wines with wine enthusiasts everywhere. At The California Wine Club we happen to think these wines simply taste better than the mass-produced wines that dominate store shelves.
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