National Junk Food Day. That’s what today is. Never heard of it? Well, creating an official “National” day requires an act of Congress, and since we couldn’t find any such act for this day of little nutrition, it’s probably really just a day someone somewhere made up. The phenomenon clearly caught on and the evidence of that is in a quick Google search. And while we are supporters of fresh, seasonal, local ingredients and cuisine, we also know a treat here and there is completely necessary. Just as long as there’s wine. There must always be wine! Even more so today; I mean, if you’re going eat junk, do it with class.
Scoff, if you must, but the concept of pairing wine with unconventional foods is entirely acceptable. Here at Ponte, we say, “if you like it, it’s good wine.” Wine shouldn’t be held to rules, it should be experimented with. It should, above all, be enjoyed and savored, whether that’s with a broiled rib eye or with a bag of potato chips, preferably with someone you love.
We don’t know about you, but today, we will proudly munch our chocolate, crunch our popcorn, indulge in a brownie or two, and devour an order of French fries, all with the perfect glass of wine. Bad for us? Eh, well according to mom, yes. According to our souls, absolutely not. We promise, doc, to get back on track tomorrow.
So, who’s with us?
Popcorn with Angry Wife White
Betcha can’t eat just one handful of crunchy, buttery and completely irresistible popcorn. When paired with a glass of cool 2015 Angry Wife White, trust us, you won’t want to stop! Our delicious Angry Wife is bright and refreshing with tons of fruit character.
Pizza with Super T
There’s some disagreement as to if pizza is considered a junk food or not. After all, you’ve got your vegetables with the tomato sauce, your dairy with the cheese, and your carbs with the crust. Today we’ll consider it junk, especially the kind that is greasy, covered with cured meats, cheesy and hot-from-the-oven (or delivery car). It begs for a red wine, not too bold and complete with a little fruit for easy drinking. With its soft tannins and strawberry aromas and flavors, 2013 Super T fits the bill beautifully.
Fried Everything with Moscato
Who knew that oil and fizz would go so well together? This applies to fried chicken, potato chips, French fries, onion rings (and Ponte’s pita chips!). Greasy, crunchy foods tend to be heavy and what is best for washing it down is something with a little fizz; bubbles to clear the palate. Our 2015 Moscato is perfect for the job. Its light sweetness and fruit-forward character also pair nicely with the salt that often accompanies such foods.
Chocolate with Late Harvest
When pairing wine with sweet foods, remember, sweets for sweet. A dry wine paired with something sugary ends up tasting like vinegar, while a sweeter wine enhances the goodness. Our 2013 Late Harvest, served chilled, has chocolate undertones of its own, making it a match made in chocolate heaven for M&M’s, brownies, chocolate donuts, Hershey’s kisses, you name it!
Cheeseburgers
There are about a million ways to top a cheeseburger, but here, we’re referring to a bun, some condiments, juicy beef and American cheese. Perhaps some bacon. There are a couple of options – chilled Beverino is actually a very pleasant choice for such a meal. Its subtle sweetness is excellent with smoky and sweet flavors (think ketchup). If you want something a bit drier, try a complex red blend like our 2013 Doppietta.
Hungry for junk yet? It’s one day, folks, why not indulge a little?
–Erica Martinez
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