Luxury: Day 13

Buena Vista Carignane Mendocino County 2023

The Buena Vista Carignane Mendocino County 2023 delights with aromas of red cherry, raspberry, and baking spice. Medium-bodied, its vibrant cranberry and pomegranate flavors are complemented by a silky, fresh finish.

Before there were vineyards in every valley north of San Francisco, before Napa and Sonoma were household names before there was a California wine world at all, there was Buena Vista. Founded in 1857, and spanning from Sonoma and into Napa, Buena Vista is California’s first premium winery, and its history is as colorful as it is proud. Today, the legend has been re-born under the vision of Jean-Charles Boisset.

Cranberry

Pomegranate

Food Pairing

Mexican-Spiced Hot Chocolate Truffles

Rich, decadent chocolate truffles infused with warm Mexican spices are a playful yet sophisticated holiday treat. The bright cranberry and pomegranate notes of the Buena Vista Carignane Mendocino County 2023 complement the chocolate’s sweetness and the subtle heat from cinnamon and chili, making this a festive pairing that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

8 oz bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Cocoa powder or powdered sugar, for rolling

Steps:

In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
Pour hot cream over chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Stir in cinnamon, chili powder (if using), and vanilla extract.
Refrigerate mixture for 1–2 hours until firm enough to scoop.
Using a small spoon or melon baller, scoop and roll into balls. Roll each truffle in cocoa powder or powdered sugar.
Serve alongside a glass of Buena Vista Carignane for a rich, holiday-inspired pairing.

Serves 4.

Rich, decadent and sure to impress.