In this edition of Supper Club Sips, we dove into California wines made by Sonoma vintner Ron Rubin. With so many different microclimates, winemaking methods, and varietals, it’s easy to get intimidated by California wine options, so instead we celebrated diversity with a River Road wine sampling. In the range of $14-$30 per bottle, these were affordable and very enjoyable.
Wines that we sampled:
River Road Unoaked Chardonnay 2019
River Road Chardonnay, Russian River Valley Reserve 2018
River Road Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley 2018
River Road Pinot Noir, Stephanie’s Cuvee Russian River Valley 2017
With such a diverse wine sampling, the dinner pairing was also a range of light to bold meats and sides. We enjoyed turkey, prime rib, au gratin potatoes, brussel sprouts, and gravy. I was particularly excited to compare the River Road Unoaked Chardonnay side by side with the River Road Chardonnay (oaked). I would drink the unoaked chardonnay by itself on the patio on a hot summer day, or simply paired with fresh fruits and veggies. Some of the oaked chardonnay was used in the gravy, which was divine! It was very oakey but could suitably stand up to the au gratin potatoes like they were made for each other. The River Road Pinot Noir, Stephanie’s Cuvee was stellar and paired so well with every meat and side on our plates. Absolutely delicious!
And for dessert, we paired the cabernet with red velvet cake. Everything was lovely and I appreciate Creative Palate for sending over these fantastic samples, and our friends Cory and Sarah for cooking and hosting our Supper Club. For more information on Ron Rubin Winery, visit their website here (also available via Total Wine which delivers to my house!).