As June rolls in, fresh strawberries and vibrant produce take center stage; bringing a burst of flavor to your plate. This month offers an abundance of farm-fresh ingredients perfect for pairing with wines that highlight the season’s best. Whether you’re enjoying strawberries on their own, mixed in salads, or incorporated into savory dishes, the right wine can elevate the experience. Let’s explore the perfect June food and wine pairings. We take a closer look at Pinot Blanc, La Crescent, and Ember, our red blend, and discover how these wines complement the bright, juicy flavors of June on the farm stand.
Pinot Blanc is an ideal wine for June. With its crisp acidity and light body that perfectly complements the season’s fresh fruits and vegetables, you can’t go wring. Its subtle fruit notes of green apple, pear, and citrus make it an excellent choice for dishes featuring Spring produce.
A simple yet flavorful strawberry and arugula salad is a great pairing for Pinot Blanc. The peppery arugula contrasts beautifully with the sweet, juicy strawberries, while the tangy balsamic vinaigrette ties the flavors together. The wine’s crisp acidity enhances the fresh, vibrant flavors of the salad.
Why it works: The light body and bright acidity of Pinot Blanc perfectly balance the sweetness of the strawberries and the peppery arugula, making each bite a refreshing experience.
Pair Pinot Blanc with grilled chicken topped with a fresh strawberry salsa. The salsa, made with strawberries, cilantro, lime, and jalapeños, adds a burst of flavor that complements the crispness of the wine and the smoky char of the chicken.
La Crescent, a wine known for its aromatic profile and notes of apricot, peach, and citrus, is perfect for June’s fresh produce. Its bright, fruity characteristics work wonders with the natural sweetness of strawberries, making it an excellent choice for a variety of summer dishes.
La Crescent pairs beautifully with strawberry and goat cheese crostini. The tangy creaminess of the goat cheese complements the sweet strawberries, while the wine’s aromatic profile enhances the combination. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of fresh mint will elevate this simple yet delicious appetizer.
Why it works: The fruity and floral notes of La Crescent highlight the sweetness of the strawberries and the creaminess of the goat cheese, creating a balanced and delightful bite.
For another seafood option, La Crescent works well with grilled shrimp topped with strawberry salsa. The wine’s sweetness and acidity play off the natural sweetness of the strawberries, while its crispness complements the savory shrimp.
Red Blends, such as our Suhru Ember, are an excellent choice when you’re looking for a wine with depth and versatility. With flavors ranging from dark fruit to subtle spice, Red Blends are ideal for pairing. Try with both fresh produce and savory dishes, including those that feature strawberries in more unexpected ways.
Grilled pork tenderloin with a strawberry-balsamic reduction is an exceptional pairing for a Red Blend. The rich, savory pork and the tangy-sweet reduction sauce bring out the deep fruit and subtle spice. Pair it with a fruit forward Red Blend to create a hearty and flavorful dish.
Why it works: The richness of the pork and the tangy-sweet reduction sauce highlight the wine’s bold fruit flavors, while the wine’s complexity balances the dish’s savory and sweet notes. (Try this Recipe)
A medley of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, beets, and sweet potatoes, topped with a strawberry and balsamic glaze, pairs wonderfully with a Red Blend. The wine’s depth enhances the savory, earthy flavors of the vegetables, while the strawberry glaze adds a sweet contrast.
June is a time for fresh strawberries and vibrant produce, and the right wine can make all the difference in elevating your dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a refreshing strawberry salad with Pinot Blanc, a savory crostini with La Crescent, or a hearty pork tenderloin with a Red Blend; these pairings will help you make the most of the season’s bounty. As you enjoy the long, sunny days, embrace the flavors of fresh produce and discover how the perfect wine can enhance every bite.
