Many wine choices to go with Easter/Passover meals

This weekend begins the most revered holiday in the religions founded on the Bible. Although many are aware of the inspiration for Passover, the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, how many people of other faiths are aware it is also the beginning of the 49-day period named Omer, culminating with Shavuot, and commemorating the arrival of the Torah, the first five books of the Old Testament? The Torah’s precepts are foundational for most Western civil law in vogue worldwide, as well as Judaism, Christianity and the Muslim faiths. Although the Qur’an contains a version of the 10 Commandments, the wording is slightly different. The underlying good advice is the same. You can read a side-by-side here: lynnaisha.wordpress.com/2010/03/03/10-commandments-quran.

The commonality of all three religions is expressed by the phrase Abrahamic Faiths. In fact, the 10 Commandments are referenced in Exodus 20:2-17, the most quoted, plus Exodus 34:12-26 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21. Often folks are surprised to learn Muslims, generally speaking, revere the Old Testament and New Testament. Two references to Jesus found in Qur’an are: 5:110 and 2:112-115.There are several references to “Old Testament Prophets” also. Find more here: ing.org/passover-easter-the-quran.

The lamb symbolizes spring sacrifice, and fertility, and many enjoy meals incorporating lamb during this season. Winos may recall that propagation of varietal wine was cloned by those who discovered sheep provided material for cloth that didn’t necessitate slaughtering the animal. Cabernet Sauvignon, Chianti and Syrah have become the best companions for the rich, usually highly seasoned, lamb recipes. Lamb’s gamey flavor advises searching for wine with balanced tannin and acidity, and some bottle age when possible. 

Those who enjoy Indian Middle Eastern or Northern African recipes should look for a Gewurztraminer. I know many find its flavors and aromas to be outside their palate spectrum when they are exposed inappropriately. Gewurtz was initially propagated to accompany the spices of Alsace, Austria/Hungary and S. Germany. Look for allspice, jasmine and citrus aromatics, and grapefruit, lychee, nectarine and starfruit flavors plus a subset of fresh ginger and coriander, among others. One reason the oldies employed so much spice, pickling, smoking etc. was that the lack of refrigeration would taint food products. I believe this also drove the earliest wine/grape scientists to favor wines with high profiles.

Those who prefer Spanish recipes with garlic and a balsamic twist can look for Clos i Terrasses Clos Erasmus Laurel from Priorat DOCa, Spain. These have been rated north of 92 McD since 2014. The 2017 was given 95 McD and is terrific. The recent release 2018, RP 96, McD 94, can be found under $55. It just entered its window. Blended of 70% Garnacha and 15% each Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. Bright ruby color, orange peel and floral aromas, and red berry flavors highlighted by cranberry. Medium-bodied with integrated oak, smooth tannin/acidity balance.

Can’t type “sheep” without mentioning Bordeaux. One of its most famous labels is Chateau Mouton (means mutton or sheep). I would be remiss indeed not to mention Bordeaux, the most famous lamb wine. My best value will set you back under $60, 93 McD. Last year, I recommend Chateau Gloria 2016.This year it’s 2018, an excellent year in Bordeaux. Dark purple indicates not quite ready, but decanting opened it up. Boysenberry, strawberry primaries with cassis, lily, licorice and hazelnut undertones. On the palate boysenberry, blackberry, subtle licorice and barrel spice. Nicely balanced with firm tannins, which the color and youth promised. Folks who enjoy it may wish to buy a six-pack of 2018-‘20 for the following three years; the 2020 is only $42. 

This last is an edited reprise. If lamb legs, racks and Cali Cab prices have you down, look for a shoulder roast or shanks to cook in your slow cooker. Serve it with Kendall Jackson Reserve Cab. These have rated 88 and been priced well under $17 since forever. They’re actually blended of at least 75% Cab, Merlot, Cab Franc, Carmenere and Petit Verdot. The KJ Grand Reserve Cab, 90 McD, will run around $22. It is worth the upgrade. Buy the reserve to cook with and the grand for drinking. This site, yummly.com/recipes/lamb-shoulder-crock-pot, shows several delicious recipes with lots of options.

Best wishes to all for a blessed Passover and a joyous Easter.