In the early weeks of autumn in the Bay Area, temperatures fluctuate as for much of the region summer-like temperatures can appear for several days in a row to be followed by cooler weather.   With typical yet periodic summer weather in late September, it is best for Bay Area residents to keep refreshing white wines chilled and within reach for impromptu back patio entertaining.

Pinot Grigio naturally has an easy-breezy sipping profile, characterized by notable acidity and depending on the vintner’s style (dry or slightly sweet), citrus or tropical flavors may be present.

Benessere Vineyards has long been recognized for its palate pleasing Pinot Grigio.   Older vintages have been characterized by more softer and sweeter tropical notes while the recently released vintage presently for sale in the winery’s tasting room is a dry style.   For those who still have an older vintage in his or her wine collection to enjoy, this article is suited for you.

Given that Pinot Grigio naturally has a higher acidity level, it again is a varietal that pairs well with tomatoes.  For those who are still growing sungold cherry tomatoes (those gorgeous little orange cherry tomatoes that burst with an almost sweet tomato lava in the mouth), use them in a recipe that pairs well with a softer and slightly sweeter Pinot Grigio.  This week’s menu hosts:

• Steamed Clams in Herbs, Garlic, Butter and White Wine atop Multigrain Angel Hair Pasta with Sungold Cherry Basil Pasta Sauce

Clams have a naturally sweet flavor and as such are naturally an excellent choice for pairing with Pinot Grigio.   When succulent steamed clams are placed atop a homemade pasta sauce involving sweet sungold cherry tomatoes, garlic, shallots and opal basil, the dish becomes deliciously sweet.

While regular angel hair pasta could be used, selecting a multigrain angel hair pasta adds a slight bit of depth to the dish.   Introducing Benessere’s Pinot Grigio is a welcome, gentle soft addition to this pairings flavor profile.   The round soft sweet tropical flavors meld intuitively with sweet flavors of sungold cherry tomatoes, clams, shallots, gentle herbs and comforting notes of garlic.

This is a simple easy going pairing meant for warm coastal September evenings in the fading sun as the ocean breeze brushes across your cheek as you slowly chew.  It is a meal that is designed to capture quintessential California lifestyle and simple mid-week entertaining as the pairing invokes sensations of comfort, casualness, warmth and that time pauses for life to be simply enjoyed.   It is simply good food and good wine being shared with good people, which is what the art of pairing is all about.

*Don’t forget to read this month’s new article on the site’s The SLO Vine and learn about another terrific wine from San Luis Obispo County, California!