Imagine sitting on a white lace blanket in the shade of a tall oak tree. Instead of the traditional American spread of deli sandwiches, potato chips and soft drinks, you’re sipping on a crisp, red wine and nibbling on a rich French cheese. The perfect European-style picnic can be yours by following these simple noshing suggestions from Lotsa Pasta owner John Hale and sipping tips from Scott Harper, Bristol Bar & Grille’s wine and beverage director, and Vince Arnold, director of wine at Party Mart.
Cheese and Bread: Fresh, sliced mozzarella ($7 per pound) with a tomato slice, fresh basil and olive oil on Tuscany toast ($4 for eight ounces).
Wine Pairing: Maso Canali Pinot Grigio ($20 at Party Mart) — This Italian white has just the right acidity to set off the mild cheese, says Harper.
Cheese and Bread: A semi-soft, slightly pungent raw cow’s milk fontina ($13 per pound) is “a nibbling cheese,” Hale says, nicely paired with rustic Italian bread ($2.79).
Wine Pairing: Villa Banfi Chianti Classico ($15 at Party Mart) — “You want to play off the pungent quality of the cheese, and the ideal grape for that is the Sangiovese grape, which is the primary grape in Chianti,” Arnold says.
Cheese and Bread: A mild, creamy blue cheese called Cashel ($16 per pound) spread across crusty ciabatta bread ($2.19) — “(The Cashel) gets soft when it gets to room temperature and easy to spread on bread,” Hale says. He also recommends pairing it with fruits, such as grapes or pears.
Wine Pairing: Gunderloch Riesling Kabinett Jean-Baptiste ($17 at Party Mart) — The German Riesling has a hint of sweetness, according to Harper, which contrasts well with the salty blue cheese.
Cheese and Bread: Rich, buttery Delice de Bourgogne cheese ($11 for approximately six ounces) spread on a French baguette ($2).
Wine Pairing: Santenay Pinot Noir ($25 at Party Mart) — “Because the Pinot Noir doesn’t have the tannins, it’s soft and deep,” Arnold says, so it goes well with the triple-cream cheese.