Winesday with The Wine Shop – BBQ
Tasting Kauai is happy to partner with the O’Connells for Winesday with The Wine Shop. Owners Dan and Ellen O’Connell are a delightful couple whose passion for wine is infectious, their knowledge is vast, and their service is friendly. Their beautiful store carries everything from wine and spirits to gourmet foods and sweet treats. Check in with Tasting Kauai every Wednesday to learn about their favorites. ¡Salud!
Now that we all have spring fever, it’s time to break out the barbecue grills and plan for your next party with friends and family. This time, let’s do it with a different twist. We will find a couple of really nice wines that have been aged in your cellar and then create fabulous menus that pair with the selected wines.
If you happen to have a bold-flavored Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, we would suggest prime rib, a ribeye steak or a hearty Tuscan stew. If you choose a well-aged blend of red varietals, such as a cab/merlot, your menu selection may move toward grilled burgers or finger-licking pork ribs. For the lighter flare in wine like an aged burgundy or beautiful white Bordeaux, you could add chicken or beef to an organic green salad.
Don’t forget your side dishes. They always play a large part in our party planning. We often make fingerling potatoes or red potatoes and then have fun with the seasoning and toppings. These may include red onion, green onion, celery, garlic salt, herbs and green peppercorns. The possibilities are endless. While you have the grill piping hot, veggie kebabs are easy and always a hit with guests. Simply prepare with your choice of fish, chicken or meat and veggies, brush with olive oil and a light salt-and-pepper dusting and they are ready to go. When the weather is nice and hot, fresh fruit salads with watermelon and garden mint are exquisite served with a crisp rosé or dry Riesling.
Now I’m hungry. I think it’s time to go start the grill, put those steaks on and enjoy a great bottle of wine. Hope to see everybody at The Wine Shop soon!
Dano and Ellen O’Connell
The Wine Shop is open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. On the first Saturday of each month from 4 to 7 p.m., they host monthly wine tastings. For more information call 808-742-7305 or visit www.thewineshopkauai.com. The shop is located just across the street from the Koloa Post Office.