Wine Pairing with Heather Heyford

Here’s to Mom!

Looking for a way to toast Mom that’s not only tasty and fun, but one that she’ll be bragging to the neighbors about until next Mother’s Day? Why not set up a simple wine and dessert pairing?

Can’t tell the difference between a Gewurztraminer and a Cabernet? No need to spend hours on-line researching the advice of chefs and sommeliers. Be guided by the taste of the person whose opinion matters most: your mom’s.

Start with a few of her favorite desserts or drinks. Does Mom adore chocolate? Is her go-to drink a crisp, grapefruit-y Sauvignon Blanc? Now look for the dominant characteristic of each food or drink. Is it spicy? Nutty? Fruity? Sample each wine and food separately, and then try various combinations. Don’t get too matchy-matchy. It might sound counterintuitive, but complementing sweet with salty or crisp with mellow allows each flavor to shine.

I learned in my days as a teacher that hands-on activities forge memories way better than being a passive recipient. Some inexpensive but pretty new accessories such as linen napkins will be a further reminder of your special day, every time Mom sets the table.

So this Mother’s Day, put Mom to work. You know what they say: It’s a dirty job, but somebody’s got to do it.