Greystone Winery – The Perfect Wine/Food Pairing

Who doesn’t want a quality, well balanced wine to pair with a wonderful meal served up by a great chef?  This wouldn’t be possible without two things, 1) A talented winemaker making quality wines and 2) a competent well trained chef.   There is a winery out there that is doing its best to make sure we have those two components for years to come.

Greystone refers to the Culinary Institute of America located in Napa Valley.  The institute is now housed in a magnificent building in the heart of Napa Valley that was built as Greystone Winery in 1889.  This building also housed Christian Brothers winery from 1950-1990 after which the CIA bought the building.  Now a famous neighbor has revived the Greystone wine label.  Markham Winery has bottled a small amount of wine since 1995 to be used exclusively by the Institute.  Now they have released the wine nationally.  They strive to bring the highest-quality California wines at the best possible value to a larger audience. Greystone wines are approachable, easy to drink, and befitting their connection to the CIA, enhance the culinary experience of any meal at which they are served.

Available in four styles at about $12.

1.  Cabernet – Aromas of vanilla and cream soda.  In the mouth it is dark and mysterious at the start; a quick swirl brings this wine alive with blackberry, vanilla, and jam aromas.  Lush and juicy on the palate and loaded with sweet berry fruit.
2. Chardonnay – Aromas of freshly cut apples that are layered with roasted nuts and stone fruit.  In the mouth there are bright citrus flavors that give way to richer butterscotch and guava notes.
3. Merlot – Black cherry and chocolate aromas are layered with vanilla, briars and smoke.  On the palate it has a fleshy texture that is harmonious with plum and raspberry flavors.
4. Sauvignon Blanc – Beautiful aromas of pear and citrus with bright acidity in the mouth.  The acid is balanced with flavors of Meyer lemon and a hint of white peach.