Grilled Cheese, Tomato Soup, and Washington Syrah
“Food and wine pairing” – even using that term feels too hard this week. On a busy day, it’s the last thing you want to think about. And as we approach year-end, we went to a classic. Grilled cheese and tomato soup – comfort food at its’ finest. No recipe – keeping it simple with what we know how to do.
Cooking with Wine…How it Went
Ok, fine. There were a few modifications. We used half and half (leftover from Thanksgiving) instead of water to make tomato bisque instead of tomato soup. And went super fancy by using 2 types of cheese – Cheddar and Pepper Jack -for extra gooey goodness. The biggest challenge was making the soup ready at the same time as the sandwich. Quick and simple. From prep to cleanup. What more do you need in December? We’ll be creative again later, we promise. If you have more energy and want to up your grilled cheese game…this is a great take with a kick.
Wine Pairing
Washington Syrah is getting a reputation, and we’re here for it. This pairing was less about matching the flavors in the food to the wine, and more about….the easiness and the wine. The Syrah is very small production and is by a maker we love. We for sure will bring you this wine. It’s balanced beautifully. It needs air to open up all the flavor. This was a 2022 so it’s a baby in wine years. Pouring it in a glass and getting some air in with a few swirls works. Plus, it’s something to do while the sandwich is grilling.
We’re leaning into the ‘Unrefined” part of A Bit Unrefined with this pairing. Because sometimes we all need to give ourselves permission to relax and take the easy path.
Past Pairings
Leftovers Supreme Crunch Wrap and a Washington Petit Verdot
Jambalaya and a Washington Cabernet Sauvignon
Cashew Chicken and a Washington Red Blend
Mushroom Puff Pastry Pizza and Washington Sauvignon Blanc
Cheese and Charcuterie Edition
ICYMI: More ABR Wine and Food Pairings
And don’t worry. We’re spending the rest of our time finalizing everything needed to actually bring you these small production Washington wines. Soon, you can try them along with us.