Wine and Game - a perfect pairing!
Gordon Russell, Esk Valley Winemaker
At Esk Valley we know our connection to the land and the climate is important for making great wine, just as we know game birds are unique because they provide us with the pure taste of what nature has to offer.
We have an appreciation for the provenance of food and wine and find that the rich and earthy flavours of game birds are a perfect complement to our wines.
The 2011 harvest is now over at Esk Valley and the grapes we so jealously guarded from marauding birds are now happily fermenting in the cellar. Gone are the early mornings and evenings spent stalking birds intent on eating our precious crop.
Our viticulturist John Graham is now waiting anxiously for that first weekend in May when he can set the sights on a more satisfying prey.
When John rises pre dawn on Saturday morning, dons his camouflage gear and heads for the maimai, I’ll still be asleep. Me, I’m the fly fisherman of the estate and rely on John and other friends to supply the birds, A swap of wine seems to guarantee a regular supply of ducks, and also pheasants which are shot by Max, our Cellar Door manager Sue’s man.
Nothing seems more satisfying to me in winter than a meal of game, an accompanying earthy red from the cellar and a fire warmed house
My suggestions for some game bird wine pairings:
With duck I enjoy pairing the rich oily flavours with a punchy Esk Valley Merlot/ Cabernet Sauvignon/ Malbec 2009.
Pheasant is a game fowl with a unique flavour that works well on the grill or marinated in red wine. Try with the Esk Valley Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 for a match made in heaven.
For Swan, the Royal bird of the game selection a lovely peppery Esk Valley Syrah 2009 would be a great match.
Gordon's favourite gamebird recipes
For more about Esk Valley Wines: www.eskvalley.co.nz and to purchase the Esk Valley Game Bird Selection of Wines click here