Piquillo peppers come from the small northern Spanish region of Navarra. The peppers take their name from their distinctive, narrow, triangular shape: Piquillo means “beak” in Spanish.

At first glance, piquillos look like a variant of sweet bell pepper, but just one bite will tell a different story, as the familiar sweetness gives way to a sneaky heat. Navarra’s piquillo peppers are traditionally roasted over a beechwood fire, which adds a delectable smokiness to their bouquet. The final product is then packed whole in its delicious juices, ready to be sliced, stuffed and puréed into a variety of delicious dishes. Russian River Ranches Chardonnay would be a great match with these peppers.

Celery root is one of those unappreciated ingredients that deserves more love.This recipe is delicious with Sonoma-Cutrer The Cutrer Chardonnay and truly something special to share.

Seven simple “antipasti” treats to serve with Sonoma-Cutrer wines for your next party!

• Toss cherry tomatoes with cilegine (small fresh mozzarella balls) with chopped fresh basil, rinsed capers, freshly ground black pepper, a little sea salt and good extra virgin olive oil.
• Top thinly sliced raw mushrooms, fennel and prosciutto with shaved parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
• Sauté rounds of prepared polenta in olive oil until crisp and top with fresh whole milk ricotta and a dab of marinara.
• Prosciutto around strips of provolone or bread sticks.
• Combine bresaola slices with pink grapefruit segments and baby arugula and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
• Top crostini with slices of smoked mozzarella, roasted red pepper strips and chopped fresh basil and briefly melt under the broiler.
• Make Crudo by slicing sushi grade tuna or yellow tail, topping with slivered red onion, sea salt, lemon infused olive oil and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Properly made, macaroni and cheese can be transcendent. What could be better than to share this recipe and a glass of Sonoma-Cutrer Sonoma Coast Chardonnay with your sweetheart?

This may sound like an unlikely recipe but in parts of South America, it’s a favorite street food. You can make a fast aioli by simply stirring in some finely chopped garlic and paprika into store bought mayonnaise. Delicious with any of the Sonoma-Cutrer Chardonnays but especially ​The Cutrer Chardonnay.

This is a gorgeous, fresh tasting green risotto and is easy to make as it is baked in the oven. The Cutrer Chardonnay would be delicious with this spring dish.