The cool weather is right around the corner for Florida locals. Aside from richly flavored lattes and cozy scarves, it’s finally time to indulge in some of our favorite full-bodied winter wines. The Valley Smoke crew might be Ponte Vedra’s resident BBQ experts, but we also know a thing or two about great wine. Check out our go-to guide on what to sip this season (and how to pair them with your BBQ favorites).

Our Favorite Food and Wine Pairings this Season

Fruit-Forward Cabernet Sauvignon

The longer a Cabernet ages, the bolder it becomes. 2014 and 2016 Cabernets offer some of the most nuanced flavor profiles. Indulge in one of Valley Smoke’s hand-selected Cabernets to experience the true boldness a good red wine can offer.

We recommend you choose rich foods to pair with a tannin-forward red like a Cabernet. Our Oak Smoked Burrata, Beef Brisket and Wood Grilled Pork Chop all perfectly complement a comforting glass of Cab.

Crisp Rosé

Rosé isn’t just a summer wine, ya’ll. We’re telling you to officially kick the stereotype to the curb and pop a bottle of pink wine in the winter. Come on, you know you want to! Choose a Rosé that’s redder in flavor, signaling bolder flavors perfect for cold weather. Some of the best winter options come from California and Tuscany, opposed to the beautiful summer Rosés from France.

Pair your delicious glass of Rosé with milder dishes this winter. The Atlantic Salmon Filet, Good Breed Chicken and Roast Beet Salad are all matches made in heaven for pink wine. A local favorite in PV is a glass of crisp Rosé and Valley Smoke’s Roast Beet Salad with pecans, pears, Georgia blue cheese, baby spinach and honey sherry vinaigrette.

Unoaked Chardonnay

Unoaked Chardonnay offers a unique flavor profile that most casual wine drinkers absolutely love. It’s a buttery winter wine choice that plays well with so many seasonal entrees. Living near the water, we love pairing a chilled glass with fresh seafood.

The smooth flavors of Chardonnay make it the perfect accompaniment to Heritage St Louis Style Ribs, Local Shrimp & Chorizo Pasta or the Seared Snapper Pozole.

Enjoy Wine & BBQ with a View at Valley Smoke

We can’t think of anything better than indulging in expertly crafted bbq dishes and seasonal wine while soaking in views of the Intracoastal. Wander over to a cozy chair on our deck to savor your winter wine selection before dinner is served. We promise it’ll be one of the highlights of your week.

Make a reservation here. We can’t wait to see you this fall!