Spring into entertaining with these 3 tips for wine and food pairings

(BPT) – As the weather beckons you outdoors, it’s exciting to start planning get-togethers — from block parties to barbecues. But don’t just settle for the same-old, same-old. If you’re looking for ideas and inspiration for the best food and wine pairings and unique cocktails that will get noticed, take cues from the experts.“Food and wine are the foundation of fun, summer gatherings and block parties,” said Riana Mondavi, brand ambassador for CK Mondavi and Family and Director of Chains, Western Region with C. Mondavi & Family wines. “No matter the reason for getting together, it is not just the people, but the drinks and the food that help make it memorable. After having to spend so much time apart, people are ready and excited to share their tasty food and wine pairings with their friends and family.”Mondavi shared her favorite food and wine pairing tips so you can be a master of entertaining without the stress:Ideal food and wine pairings1. Chardonnay:This fresh, medium-bodied white wine complements soft cheeses and cured meats, making it a delicious option for serving with a charcuterie board. Chardonnay also pairs perfectly with delicate poultry and fish dishes, and light desserts. CK Mondavi and Family just launched their first ever Buttery Chardonnay and it pairs delightfully well with salmon and risotto.2. Cabernet Sauvignon:Robust, bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon can stand up to stronger flavor profiles, like roasted vegetables, barbecued red meat, spicy dishes and rich seafood. CK Mondavi and Family recently created a Dark Cabernet and this new wine provides a delightful contrast to soft cheese and bread, as well as cured meats.3. Moscato:Sweet and fruity Moscato provides an excellent pairing with sweet desserts, while also complementing spicy food, veggies and flavorful fish dishes.How to create a refreshing warm-weather wine cocktailPleasing your guests on a warm spring day is easy with the right ingredients. Let wine be the foundation for a lovely, refreshing drink that everyone will love. Here’s one example of a recipe using wine to create a thirst-quenching, tasty cocktail.It’s Five O’clock Somewhere MargaritaIngredients750 milliliters CK Mondavi and Family Chardonnay 1 1/2 cups tequila1 cup triple sec1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)1/2 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)1 orange (sliced)2 limes (sliced)3 stems cilantro (see Note)PreparationIn large pitcher combine Chardonnay, tequila, triple sec, orange juice and lime juice. Add orange and lime slices, and cilantro. Chill at least 2 hours. Serve over ice. Salt rims of glasses, if desired. Note: The longer the wine sits with the cilantro, the stronger the flavor will be. If desired, add cilantro right before serving.Learn more about pairing food and wine, plus more recipes at CKMondavi.com/ckm-pairings/.