Perfect Wine Pairings

Wine and food have a beautiful symbiotic relationship, enhancing each other’s flavors and creating unforgettable dining experiences. Among the plethora of wines available, St. Francis Winery and Vineyard’s wines stand out for their exceptional quality and distinct characteristics.

Pairing these wines with the right dishes can elevate your culinary journey to new heights, creating moments that are nothing short of perfection. To elevate your dining experience with the authentic tastes of Sonoma, Executive Chef Peter Janiak has curated a pairings and recipes page. This resource is designed to guide you in crafting special meals and pairing them with the perfect wine selections to enhance your culinary delights.

We’ve handpicked some of our favorite recipes that you should be trying out now, perfectly paired with our Artisan collection of wines for your enjoyment.

St. Francis Chardonnay with Lobster Risotto:

The creamy texture and rich flavors of St. Francis Chardonnay complement the buttery goodness of lobster risotto perfectly.

The wine’s notes of ripe apple, pear, and vanilla enhance the sweetness of the lobster while balancing the dish’s richness. Sipping on a glass of chilled Chardonnay while savoring each spoonful of velvety risotto creates a luxurious dining experience that tantalizes the taste buds.

St. Francis Cabernet Sauvignon with Grilled Ribeye Steak:

The bold flavors and robust tannins of St. Francis Cabernet Sauvignon make it an ideal match for a juicy ribeye steak hot off the grill.

The wine’s dark fruit flavors and hints of spice complement the charred exterior of the steak, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. With each bite, the tender meat and luscious wine combine to create a symphony of taste that lingers on the palate long after the meal is over.

Recommended Wine: Cabernet Sauvignon, Rockpile

St. Francis Merlot with Mushroom Risotto:

This lush wine is sourced from our premier Estate Behler Vineyard and reveals classic notes and rich aromatics the Sonoma Valley region is known for. The earthy notes of St. Francis Merlot pairs beautifully with the savory umami flavors of mushroom risotto.

The wine’s soft tannins and red berry undertones provide a delightful contrast to the creamy rice dish, making each bite a pleasure for the palate. As you indulge in this comforting combination, you’ll find yourself transported to a cozy trattoria in the heart of Italy, where food and wine are celebrated as an art form.Recommended Wine: Merlot, Behler Vineyard

St. Francis Sauvignon Blanc with Goat Cheese Salad:

The crisp acidity and citrusy notes of St. Francis Sauvignon Blanc brighten up the flavors of a refreshing goat cheese salad. The wine’s zesty character cuts through the creaminess of the cheese, while its vibrant fruit flavors compliment the salad’s fresh greens and tangy vinaigrette.

With each refreshing sip, you’ll feel rejuvenated and invigorated, making this pairing perfect for a light lunch or al fresco dinner.

Recommended Wine: Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma County

When it comes to wine and food pairings, St. Francis Winery and Vineyard wines offer a delightful array of options to suit every palate.

Whether you’re indulging in a luxurious lobster risotto or savoring a simple goat cheese salad, these wines elevate the dining experience to new heights. With their impeccable craftsmanship and distinct flavors, St. Francis wines truly deserve a chef’s kiss of approval.

If you prefer to leave the cooking and pairing to us, consider joining us at our Sonoma Valley winery for an immersive culinary experience. Indulge in Chef Janiak’s farm-to-table Estate Pairing or Wine & Food Pairing experiences and embark on a delectable journey through a line-up of perfect pairings.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Sonoma Valley, our Estate Pairing takes place on our Vineyard Portico. This family-style pairing experience promises to tantalize your senses with four expertly crafted courses, each thoughtfully paired with our exclusive, award-winning wines available only at our winery.

The nationally acclaimed Wine & Food Pairing is Sonoma Valley’s premier culinary experience. Hosted within the elegant confines of our indoor estate grand dining room, this extraordinary experience treats your senses to a five-course pairing extravaganza, spotlighting the finest local ingredients harmoniously complemented by our meticulously crafted wines.