February: Couvillion Winery and Petit Noirs Chocolate

I know - February was like sooo last month. Here we are in the middle of March.

However, when I do think of February I cannot help from thinking about two things: chocolate and cherries. No doubt it has to do with Valentine's Day and President's Day - you know, the ol' story of George Washington chopping down the cherry tree and how he couldn't tell a lie ...

Well, I cannot tell a lie. It's no secret that I love pairing chocolate and wine together. Last month, I recently discovered a wonderful pairing of the two, but of local chocolate, cherries and wine.  



Jill of Couvillion Winery

Jill Noble of Couvillion Winery produces small lots of larger than life grapes such as her Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.  These are bold wines, but with polish and elegance - alot like the winemaker herself.  Producing from small lots and estate vineyards allows Jill to ensure the quality of her grapes. She claims her grapes are lucky grapes and she feels lucky to have them. And for the record, we are always lucky when there is an opportunity to taste the wines of Couvillion.

Couvillion Merlot - 2009 and Petits Noirs Chocolat Tart Cherry and Star Anise Boutons ("buttons") make for a very satisfactory and lush pairing. The two really complement each other. 

Lan of Petits Noirs Chocolates

Lan Wong of Petits Noirs specialty is crafting chocolate creations that are not only inspired by the fresh produce grown in the valley, but also inspired from the various complex notes found in the local wines. This local boutique chocolatier is located in the lush Oregon region of the Walla Walla Valley, where vineyards and fruit orchards share the same fertile terrior. 

The Right Bank Bordeaux-style varietal of merlot has the flavors of earth and cherries with hints of mocha and undertones of clove and ripe dark plums. The dark chocolate is distinctive with dark red tart fruit and vanilla. The sprinkling of star anise brings it all together with tones of sweet licorice. 

"They" keep telling us about the benefits of red wine and dark chocolate and the two being "heart healthy." And of course, when we think of February we also think of hearts like in Valentine's Day. I also think that wine and chocolate are also beneficial for emotional health and happiness, too. I know wine and chocolate certainly keeps my emotional health and happiness in check.

Here's to February for all of it's chocolatey and cherry goodness - - and of course, wine.



Petits Noirs Chocolate Tart Cherry and Star Anise Boutons