All Red: Day 5

2023 Wild Child Alicante Bouschet

Deep, inky, and captivating, this Alicante Bouschet shows luscious blackberry jam and blueberry aromas that leap from the glass. Layers of cocoa and subtle spice provide depth and intrigue, complementing the wine’s dense, rich texture.

The palate is full-bodied yet balanced, with soft tannins that frame the bold fruit. A touch of earthy complexity emerges mid-palate, adding sophistication to its luscious profile. The finish is long and velvety, leaving lingering notes of dark fruit and spice.

Blackberry Jam

Blueberry

Food Pairing

Holiday Beef Pho

Warm, aromatic, and full of holiday flair, this Beef Pho is a comforting bowl of rich broth, tender beef, and fragrant herbs. The deep, inky 2023 Wild Child Alicante Bouschet pairs beautifully with the hearty, spiced flavors of the pho, enhancing the savory beef and subtle notes of cinnamon, star anise, and clove in the broth. The wine’s blackberry and blueberry character adds depth, while hints of cocoa and spice echo the warm aromatics, creating a festive and layered pairing.

Ingredients:

6 cups beef broth
1 small onion, halved
2-inch piece of ginger, sliced
3 star anise pods
1 cinnamon stick
2 cloves
2 tbsp fish sauce
Salt, to taste
8 oz rice noodles
1/2 lb thinly sliced beef (sirloin or brisket)
1 cup bean sprouts
1/2 cup fresh herbs (cilantro, Thai basil, mint)
1 lime, cut into wedges
1–2 fresh chili peppers, sliced (optional)
Hoisin sauce and Sriracha, for serving

Steps:

Char onion and ginger in a dry skillet or directly over a flame until slightly blackened, about 5 minutes.
In a large pot, combine beef broth, charred onion, ginger, star anise, cinnamon, cloves, fish sauce, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 20–25 minutes to let flavors meld. Strain the broth and return to the pot.
Cook rice noodles according to package instructions, then divide into bowls.
Arrange raw beef slices on top of noodles. Pour hot broth over the beef to cook it gently.
Garnish with bean sprouts, fresh herbs, lime wedges, and sliced chili if desired. Serve with hoisin and Sriracha on the side.
Enjoy a glass of 2023 Wild Child Alicante Bouschet alongside the pho—its bold fruit and subtle cocoa notes harmonize beautifully with the rich, aromatic broth.

Serves 4

Rich, tender and fragrant.