Grgich Hills Recipe
Make Grgich Hills Recipe in just 40m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Wine & Serving
Glassware & chilled items
Method
Preparation & chilling bottle
Chill the bottle
If the bottle is not already chilled, place the Grgich Hills Chardonnay in a refrigerator for 2–3 hours. If you need it quickly, fill a wine cooler or bucket with a 50/50 mix of ice and cold water, submerge the bottle, and chill for 20–30 minutes.
Prepare glassware
Shortly before serving, ensure white wine glasses are clean and free of odors. If desired, place glasses in the refrigerator or freezer for 10–15 minutes to lightly chill them (do not freeze).
Opening & pouring
Open the bottle
Wipe the top of the bottle with a clean cloth. Use a waiter’s corkscrew or wine opener to remove the foil and cork cleanly. If the wine has a synthetic stopper, remove it gently. Inspect the aroma briefly for any off notes.
Decanting (optional)
If the bottle is older or you prefer aeration, decant the Chardonnay into a clean decanter and allow it to breathe for 15–30 minutes. For young, well-made Chardonnay like Grgich Hills, decanting is optional and mostly for personal preference.
Pour
Hold the bottle at the base and pour slowly into each chilled glass, filling to about one-third full (roughly 5–6 ounces / 150–180 ml) to allow room for swirling and to concentrate aromas.
Serving & garnishes
Serve chilled
Place the poured glasses on a coaster or serving tray. For a slight extra chill, add 1/4 cup of ice to the wine cooler or bucket and set the bottle back in between pours. Do not put ice directly into the glass unless preferred; ice will dilute the wine.
Garnish (optional)
If desired, add a lemon twist, or float a thin apple slice on the rim for a light aromatic accent. These are optional and should not overpower the wine.
Tasting notes and pairing suggestion
Suggest guests swirl gently, sniff to appreciate the Chardonnay’s aromas (apple, pear, citrus, vanilla/oak depending on vintage), then sip. Pair with roasted chicken, creamy pastas, grilled fish, or a soft triple-cream cheese for a classic match.
Cleanup
Recork the bottle with the original cork or a wine stopper and store it upright in the refrigerator if you have any remaining wine. Consume within 3–5 days for best freshness. Rinse and dry glasses and any decanter used.