Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Times Union Notes Larry's Southwestern Sauces

Albany Times Union Blogger William Dowd writes:

As we brace for yet another snowstorm or two this week, thoughts may be turning to more ways to stay warm. They are down at the Hudson-Chatham Winery in Ghent, Columbia County. This Saturday, the DeVito family will throw a “Heat In Winter” party, featuring their own wines paired with tastings of locally-made spicy foods.

Examples: Larry’s Southwestern Sauces (ranchero, chipotle and mole styles); maple-chipotle goat cheese from R&G; horseradish cheddar cheeses, spicy aged cheese in olive oil and ”hot” chocolates from Vasilow’s.

As Carlo and Dominique DeVito explain, “When considering which wines to drink with spicy foods, keep in mind that spicy foods make high-alcohol wines taste flat, tannic reds more bitter, and oak-aged whites oakier. New York State wines, which tend to be lower in alcohol and fruitier in flavor, complement spicy dishes very well. Wines that have some sweetness can really tame and balance the heat. … A simple sparkling wine has the juicy fruit and tangy acidity to mellow a flaming mouthful.”

The special event will run from noon to 5 p.m. The winery is located at 1900 State Route 66, about midway between Hudson and Chatham. Phone: (518) 392-9463.

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