By: Taylor Ziolkowski
Wine and chocolate, a brilliantly timeless pairing—undisputed and appreciated by connoisseurs of both delicacies. Until recently, wine drinkers and chocolate consumers alike were hard pressed to find these two products working in collaboration with one another. Considering the palatable marriage produced by their association, the lovers of these two fruits strive to reach beyond traditional boundaries of taste, and push the limits of their palates.
By: Taylor Ziolkowski
Close your eyes, take a sip, and allow yourself to be taken back— back in time over 60 million years ago. On the surface, the landscape is rapidly changing. To the east, the mighty Sierra Nevada Mountain Range is slowly beginning to take shape. At their base, the Sierra Foothills begin developing staggering topography, shaped by young streams and orogenic lifting. For the next 58 million years, erosion and uplift take hold, producing the rich, unique topsoils we have today.
By: Taylor Ziolkowski
Twisted Twig Winery’s 2012 Viognier speaks volumes through its complex mouthfeel and non-traditional vinification technique. This sophisticated white begs a classification all its own, simultaneously evoking flavors that are bright yet elegant, and crisp yet flamboyant. The unique character of this wine stems from the winemakers bold and contemporary approach. This 2012 Viognier carries with it flavors of peach and apricot on the front, quickly changing to late harvest mango, pineapple and tangerine on the long, captivating finish. The complexity of this white will only improve with time, as the winemaker aimed to preserve its tartaric acidity to ensure the process of bottle aging. The Twisted Twig 2012 Viognier pairs perfectly with a mango infused kale salad that offers flavor complements above and beyond the satisfaction of your palate. The refined tannins and earthy complexion on the front of this wine offer a wonderful match for the natural flavors of tossed kale greens. The perfect balance of acidity and sweetness allow this full bodied wine to encapsulate your senses as the juices of the chopped mango blend with the flavors of a long, tropical finish.
By: Taylor Ziolkowski
Twisted Twig’s 2008 Zinfandel pairs brilliantly with authentic BBQ Polish Kielbasa; boasting flavors of lightly roasted lean pork and rich spice blends. A delectable glazing sauce marries perfectly with this medium bodied red, as hints of honey complement the candied char of the sausage. The roots of the Polish sausage date back to the monasteries of the Middle Ages, fit to pair with the wine of a grape as authentic and primitive as Zinfandel. Twisted Twig’s 2008 Zinfandel stems from old-vine grafts, giving it a dry, rustic flavor and a black pepper finish that elegantly accompanies the spice of this dish. Aged 24 months in American Oak, this medium bodied Zin exudes bravado in every category. Smoke and spice infuse the BBQ Kielbasa characterizing a classically prepared dish, befitting marriage with the refined oak flavors of this 2008 Zin.