Wine Haulin'

 
No trip to Callaway Vineyard & Winery to pick up your wine club haul is complete unless you dine at Meritage. This time I went off the beaten path and sated myself with this steak sandwich packed with pickled onions, smoked cheddar, lettuce and tomato on a toasted roll. When paired with the recommended Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon it was truly a feast.

After lunch I used the tasting room as my writing room to finish a chapter I started in my hotel suite. I've never had rosemary and olive oil chips before, but after I paired it with the newly released 2023 Special Selection Sangiovese I'm now a huge fan of both.

This month's wine club selections included the following two bottles:

• 2023 Special Selection Sangiovese
• 2023 Winemaker's Reserve Chardonnay

In addition to the chips noted above, the Sangiovese should pair well with Italian and Mediterranean dishes as well as grilled white meats. I also get the sense it's one of those rare reds that's enjoyable by itself.

The Chardonnay is an old favorite that was outstanding with yuzu citrus chicken and herb seasoned crusted salmon.

I had a total of four open slots in my larger wine fridge, so I also brought home the following:

• 2019 Winemaker's Reserve Calliope Red
• Non-vintage (NV) Special Selection Ambrosia

The Calliope Red is a blend of Mourvedre, Syrah, Cinsault and Grenache that's perfect with ribeye steaks and smoked Gouda. It's also a good candidate for additional aging. 

The Ambrosia is a sweet blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Mourvedre, Cinsault and Grenache. It's best served by itself or with desserts made with dark berries and/or chocolate.

BONUS WINE: I had an expiring $25 Marriott gift card, so I used it to bring home this half bottle of Josh 2022 Pinot Noir. It's serviceable, meaning it's not on par with my usual wines and a ripoff at that price point. But it's free so I'm not complaining.

That's my wine shopping for October, but the Meritage menu will change before the month is out. Do I drive up there for one last strawberry and chicken salad with a glass of Rose of Sangiovese? 

Only time will tell...