The days are flying, and once again we’ve circled back around to our Favorite Day of the Month – Food and Wine Pairing Day! Chipotle-All-Day did NOT disappoint.  

This month we paired our barely-released 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon with an assortment of tacos and meats from Chipotle Mexican Grill and, HOLY Chipotle, it’s safe to say we did real good. 

While Cabernet may not be the first wine you typically reach for when unwrapping a giant burrito, or chomping on delicious tacos, our 2017 Cab from Casa de Vinas found the sweet spot for complimenting each of these delectable dishes.

We began with a couple of standard meat choices – steak and carnitas.  These were delightful pairings that let the wine take center stage.  These meats were not overly flavored or overpowering in any way, but their mild spice flavors made for a perfectly enjoyable pairing that let the fruit forwardness of the wine shine through.  

The standouts of the afternoon were, hands-down, the sofritas (vegan) and barbacoa beef.  It is no surprise these two proteins share a very similar spice profile. Both are braised/bbq’ed to enrich and enhance a powerhouse combination that includes poblano peppers, chipotle adobo, cumin, garlic and oregano – among other flavors.  This was an unexpected surprise (some may say challenge) for our Cab! But our friend came through, showing a bit less fruit up front, and instead offering a selection of spices and earthy notes to compliment a much different element of fare.

Our recommendation?  It’s not just for steak.  Grab this Cab and try it with a full spectrum of dishes and flavors, spices, and herbs.  We think you’ll be surprised with just how versatile this beautiful wine can be. And, of course, let us know what you find.

Cin cin,

Lisa