Pups Uncorked ! Robust reds By Cheryl Lemoine
Two things we adore at Pup & Purr are our furry friends and wine ! But , can the two go hand in hand , or shall we say , “ paw in paw ”? Perhaps your pooch and your favorite vino have more in common than you think . We ’ ve sniffed out pup characteristics and varietal profiles to create the most fetching Fall matchups . So , as the heat gives way to crisp , cool evenings , fetch a glass of one of these robust reds and kick back with your four-legged bestie . Cheers !
Cabernet Sauvignon One of the most widely planted grapes worldwide began as an accidental hybrid between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc . With hearty tannins , complex flavors , and noticeable acidity , it can age for decades , although most can be enjoyed young . Aromas and flavors range from tobacco , green pepper , vanilla , black olives , and cedar to cassis , black currents , eucalyptus , and cherries . Great pairings include grilled steak , roasted lamb , beef short ribs , bleu cheese , and bittersweet chocolate .
Pup Pairings : French Bulldog : Sociable , keen , easygoing , stubborn , affectionate , smooth , compact , muscular , charming , alert
German Shepherd : Confident , courageous , smart , loyal , intelligent , muscular , noble , agile , curious , firm , bold
Rottweiller : Intense , strong , energetic , confident , devoted , good-natured , calm , aloof , self-assured
Malbec Originally from Southern France where it is mainly used as a blending grape , Malbec is considered to be the national grape of Argentina . Deep purple in color , this medium to full-bodied wine typically offers soft , silky tannins , a smooth texture , and lush , jammy fruit flavors of plum , currants , and black cherry . Some also have aromas and flavors of coffee , warm spices , black pepper , and leather . Great to sip on its own , Malbec is an ideal match for pork , salmon , poultry , and flavorsome cheeses .
Pup Pairings : Beagle : Curious , friendly , merry , clever , exceptional sense of smell , amiable , lovable , compact , hardy , gentle
Golden Retriever : Affectionate , playful , intelligent , adaptable , muscular , outgoing , trustworthy , dependable
Labradoodle : Exuberant , gentle , sociable , affectionate , extraverted , elegant , cheerful , lively , easygoing , sweet
Merlot One of the most popular varieties , Merlot is revered for its velvety texture , soft tannins , low acidity , and supple finish . Depending upon its origin , aromas and flavors can vary to include cocoa , clove , vanilla , blackberry , plums , cherries , herbs , and cedar . This easy-drinking crowd-pleaser is typically ruby red in color , fruit-forward , and round on the palate . Enjoy it on its own or pair with paté , charcuterie , hard cheeses , veal , pork , barbecued chicken , and burgers .
Pup Pairings : Basset Hound : Sturdy , adaptable , affectionate , easygoing , friendly , intelligent , velvety , pleasant-natured
Pug : Compact , charming , stubborn , sensitive , playful , affectionate , mischievous , loving , affectionate , outgoing
Silken Windhound : Amiable , affectionate , playful , loyal , intelligent , even-tempered , silky , elegant , adaptable
Zinfandel Although Zinfandel is California ’ s oldest variety , its roots hail from Croatia . Also known as Primitivo , it produces a bold , fruitforward , jammy wine with exotic spices and high alcohol content . Medium to full-bodied , common characteristics include raspberry , blackberry , cassis , plum , tobacco , coffee , anise , minerals , and smoke with a distinct spicy / peppery quality . This robust wine is a terrific accompaniment to rack of lamb , barbecued ribs , smoked meats , stews , aged cheeses , and Asian cuisine .
Pup Pairings : Boxer : Energetic , fearless , cheerful , loyal , forward , confident , bright , muscular , firm , strong-willed , upbeat
Dachshund : Friendly , curious , spunky , clever , lively , brave , charming , courageous , independent , stubborn
Mastiff : Courageous , dignified , good-natured , massive , powerful , formidable , muscular , alert , patient , lovable , protective