As the days are warming up, it’s time to start planning the ultimate summer party. This year, we’ve seen more and more Sparkling Wines making their way into the picnic baskets and we thought it was time to share the secrets of pairing summer to sparkling wines.
First things first, where can you host a summer party? There are plenty of places to host a picnic in Sydney, as well as outdoor seating by popular swimming holes. A poolside BBQ is always fun and so is throwing a soiree in the comforts of your own home. What ever your preference, once your venue is sorted, you can get stuck into the food and drink options.
Begin with a cheese platter, choosing a selection of hard and soft cheeses. Add a selection of olives, dried meats, some crisp crackers and fresh strawberries for garnish and you are on your way. For some tips on how to prepare the perfect cheese board check out our interview with cheesemonger Lauren Lown from Milk The Cow. Grab a bottle Riccadonna Asti Spumante, a sweet fruity sparkling wine and pair it with a peppery cheese. Try a rich Havarti, Jarlsberg or Gouda cheese with a glass of this sparkling.
In the afternoon, enjoy a light sparkling beverage with a fruit salad or canapé. The Riccadonna Moscato Rosé has a wider flower and fruit bouquet in the flavours, in comparison to an Asti. A Moscato, is typically a light sweet sparkling and can be enjoyed with light refreshments, as well as with your dessert.
The Riccadonna Ruby, has a strong aromatic, floral and fruity scent, which is perfect for a light aperitif of melon and cheese, salami with dark bread or vegetable canapés. It can also be enjoyed with a selection of hazelnuts, pistachios, olives and figs.
Riccadonna recently hosted a special lunch at Salts Meats Cheese with Chef Massimo Mele. He created a range of recipes that pair perfectly with Riccadonna Sparkling Wines, including Baked figs wrapped in pancetta, with candied walnuts, fresh pears and gorgonzola. The recipe (pictured above) can be found at the end of the article.
For a more versatile drop, try a glass (or two) of Riccadonna Prosecco, which can be paired with main meals, such as pastas with meat or cream sauces. The acidity in the Prosecco Riccadonna will refresh the palate and clear the mouth of the rich flavours. On the other hand, it can be paired with seafood and shellfish, to bring out lighter tones from the salty fish.
A bottle of Prosecco is a great addition to any summer party, balancing the flavours of red meats and bringing out the best in white meats. Try a Prosecco with anything from salmon to pasta carbonara.
For a fruity dessert, opt in for a glass of sweeter sparkling. The Asti Spumante, Ruby and Rosé work particularly well with fruits like peaches, apricots, grapefruit and pear. If you would rather a richer chocolatey dessert, be careful to pair with a sweet wine like an Asti, it will be overpowered by the chocolate. We would recommend trying a Riccadonna Prosecco.
