This past Saturday, we were delighted to host our 8th annual Wine & Cheese Pairing with cheese-guru Cindy Della Monica, from Lodi’s very own Cheese Central! Cooling off in the chilled winery building on a hot summer day was just one of many perks we enjoyed during this favorite event. Harney Lane owners Kyle and Jorja worked closely with Cindy to taste a variety of fun combinations, ultimately landing on what all agreed were perfect pairings.
This year, we opted to focus on picnic style cheese bites – the ideal snacks for dining al fresco! Coupled with a diverse selection of Harney Lane wines, Cindy’s well-crafted bites proved a perfect option for a casual picnic or a summer soiree! Below is a sneak peek for you to try at home. Grab your favorite Harney Lane wines and stop in to see Cindy at Cheese Central in Downtown Lodi to grab all the ingredients needed for your picnic adventure!
2017 Albariño
paired with Bucherondin & Blueberry Peach Salsa
2017 Dry Rosé
paired with Fromage Fort
2014 Zinfandel
paired with Manchego & Chimichurri
2015 Petite Sirah
paired with Coastal Mature Cheddar & Wine Soaked Cherries
Lizzy James Dessert Wine
paired with Mascarpone, Chocolate Cake and Dessert Wine Sauce
Featured Recipe by Cindy Della Monica of Cheese Central, Lodi:
Blueberry Peach Salsa
Yield: Makes 3 cups
Ingredients:
1 cup fresh blueberries
Zest and juice of 1 lime
2 large peaches, peeled and diced, about 2 cups
1 small shallot, finely chopped
3 tbsp chopped fresh basil
3 tbsp chopped fresh chives
2 tbsp hot pepper jelly
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Coarsely chop half of the blueberries. Toss chopped blueberries with remaining whole blueberries and all other ingredients. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, or cover and chill up to 24 hours. Serve over your favorite goat cheese or Bucherondin with a chilled glass of Albariño!