I get so excited for the 4th of July, I just can't stand it! I LOVE the whole concept of outdoor entertaining and grilling for this special holiday. It will take me the next week or two of planning and recipe reading to get ready.
If I'm going to be entertaining more than just one or two friends, I always use my gas grill. I know that some grilling gurus swear by charcoal, and for smaller groups, charcoal is my preference. With any larger group, gas is the way to go. Not to mention, if you're grilling a meat that should be slow cooked for a longer period of time, most home cooks can keep a more even temperature with gas, and keeping the temperature even is paramount in slow cooking.
I've put together six bottles of wine especially for this 4th of July, called "Jennifer's California Picks." Now, since I'm a California girl, you guys know I'm partial to the wines produced in my great state, but certainly don't limit myself to them. There are some essential wines in this pack for your 4th of July barbecue.
If you're going to be doing burgers, the Christine Andrew Tempranillo is the way to go. Whether you're making lamb burgers or ground sirloin, a little Tempranillo mixed in with the ground meat, along with worcestershire, minced garlic and freshly ground salt and pepper works wonders. If you're not a big Tempranillo fan, you could also use the Osprey Glen Cab Franc which would work equally well with the burgers. This wine has some beautiful fruit and would also pair nicely with baby back ribs. Make your own barbecue sauce, or doctor up a bottled version by adding some wine, honey, maple syrup, spices, any combination of these elements can boost your sauce to new levels.
While things are progressing nicely on the grill, prepare some simple, alfresco appetizers to serve. These could include cherry tomatoes stuffed with herbed cream cheese, carrot, jicama and celery sticks with a curry dip, and a nice, artisan cheese platter with a sliced baguette. Our Ledgewood Creek Sauvignon Blanc would be perfect with these flavorful treats. And you want to keep the appetizers light, to balance out the rich, bold flavors of the meats and side dishes which will follow.
By the end of the meal, a simple peach or pear tart, which you can make or purchase from your local grocery store, and a glass of our Stone House Brut provides the nicest ending to this outdoor holiday. Save a glass (or two!) of the bubbles to enjoy while watching the fireworks.
A perfect day..
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