Primitivo-Cabernet-Merlot "Nino's", Puglia, Italy

Vino rosso

Med Bag of Chips

Ham, cheddar cheese, fresh tomatoes, and arugula.

Ham and Cheese Sandwich

Sliced turkey, lettuce, tomato, and mustard in a whole wheat wrap.

Fit Turkey Wrap

Bring the bottle to serving temperature by resting it at 60–65°F (15–18°C) for at least 30–60 minutes if stored colder. If stored warmer, chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes, then rest upright for 10 minutes.

Inspect & Rest

Use a wine opener to remove the capsule and cork. Wipe the bottle lip with a clean cloth. If the cork breaks or is fragile, work slowly and use a two-prong puller if available.

Open the Bottle

Pour the wine slowly into a decanter in one continuous stream. Stop and check the neck after the first ~3/4 of the bottle to avoid pouring sediment. Allow the wine to breathe for 45–90 minutes to open aromas and soften tannins. If in a hurry, decant for 20–30 minutes.

Decanting (recommended)

If using a wine thermometer, ensure the decanted wine is 60–65°F (15–18°C). If cooler than desired, leave at room temperature for 10–20 minutes; if warmer, place the decanter briefly over an ice bath for 5–10 minutes, checking frequently.

Check Temperature

Pour 4–6 oz (120–180 ml) per glass into large red wine glasses, filling to the widest part of the bowl to allow aroma concentration. Hold the glass by the stem to avoid warming the wine with your hand.

Serve

Remove cheese from refrigeration 30–45 minutes before serving to reach room temperature. Arrange sliced cured meats and cheeses on a board with crusty bread. Cut cheeses into slices or wedges for easy serving.

Prepare Cheese & Charcuterie

If serving grilled ribeye or roast lamb, slice thinly and rest for 5 minutes after slicing. Serve warm alongside the wine—the savory, fatty flavors match the Cabernet's structure.

Prepare Cooked Meat Pairing

Serve small pieces (about 1/4–1/2 inch squares) of dark chocolate with after-dinner pours or with bolder sips to complement the wine's dark fruit and tannins.

Chocolate

Mayacamas Cabernet Sauvignon Mt. Veeder 2020 bottle

Decanter (optional)

Large red wine glasses

Wine opener / corkscrew

Wine thermometer (optional)

Aged cheddar or Comté

Cured meats (e.g., prosciutto, salami)

Grilled ribeye or roast lamb (sliced)

Crusty bread or baguette

Dark chocolate (70% cacao)

Mayacamas

Crispy saffron rice, Santa Barbara urchin, smoked trout roe, yellowtail, preserved yuzu

Mayacamas Recipe

Descriptors

Tasting Notes

Food Pairings

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