Perfect Pair: Valentine's Day

When staying in on February 14th, menu planning is a key component of how the evening will go.  Check out these two recipe ideas!

Troublemaker Red Wine

Inspired by varieties that flourish in Paso Robles and California's Central Coast, Troublemaker is a truly distinct Paso blend consisting of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, Petite Sirah and Zinfandel. With rich aromatics that display hints of smoke and violets, bright fruit on the palate and a long finish, Troublemaker has amazing depth and structure. 

"The Man's Pairing"

Sausage Sandwich

• 2 Roy's Swiss Sausages

• 2 Fresh Hot Dog Buns

• 2 Tablespoons Stone-ground Mustard

• 2 Tablespoons Honey 

Grill the sausage on a barbecue until thoroughly cooked. Place on soft white hot dog bun. Mix mustard and honey. Spread honey-mustard on sausage. Enjoy with a hearty glass of Troublemaker Red Wine!

Treana White

This white Rhone blend displays characteristics of Marsanne and Viognier; vibrant floral aromas of citrus blossom and jasmine are followed by elegant flavors of ripe stone fruit, hints of pear, pineapple and honey overtones. 

"I Aim to Please Pairing"

Poached Salmon & Peruvian Mashed Potatoes

• 1 Pound Fresh Wild Salmon

• 1/2 Cup Treana White

• 6 Peruvian Blue Potatoes

• 4 Ounces Cream Cheese

• 6 Ounces Vermont Salted Butter

• 1 Bunch Fresh Spinach

• 1 Whole Garlic Clove

• 1 Lemon

• Olive Oil

• Salt and Pepper

Potatoes: Clean and partially peal potatoes. Roast bunch of garlic at 360 for 20 minutes. Bring 4 quarts of water to a boil in a stock pot until tender with a fork. Drain. Place the potatoes back in pot and mash. On low heat, add cream cheese, butter, roasted garlic and mix on low heat. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Salmon: In a heavy bottom pan, drizzle olive oil to coat the bottom and set to high heat. Sear salmon 2 minutes on each side. Reduce heat to medium low and add butter and wine. Cover and let simmed for 5 minutes. Baste salmon with butter sauce and cover. Continue to cook until medium rare.

Spinach: Rinse and de-stem spinach. Roughly chop. In heavy bottom sauce pan, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add spinach into hot pan and toss for one minute. 

Serve and enjoy with a glass of Treana! 

Hope Family Wines in Paso Robles (www.hopefamilywines.com)