California winemaker Gina Gallo, of Gallo of Sonoma winery, used the distinctive textures and flavors in Rori Trovato's recipes to shape her pairing suggestions. Melding food and wine comes naturally to Gallo, a third-generation vintner. Her grandfather Julio (brother of Ernest) paved the way, and Gina Gallo spent her childhood surrounded by grapevines and delicious food—not to mention an entire community of serious wine lovers.
Raw Spinach Salad with Warm Tomato Vinaigrette : Because this dish has hard-to-match flavors, Gina recommends a varietal with dark berries and a peppery flavor, like the 2001 Rancho Zabaco Heritage Vines Zinfandel ($18).
Pea and Roasted Garlic Crostini : The strong ingredients in this dish work well with a complex wine; Gina likes the 2001 Frei Bros Pinot Noir ($24).
Broiled Asparagus with Miso Ginger : To complement the slightly bitter taste of this dish, Gina suggests a rich, spicy wine like the 2001 Beckman Santa Barbara Syrah ($30).
Printed from Oprah.com on Wednesday, June 19, 2013
