By: Alexa Shabinsky By: Alexa Shabinsky | September 16, 2021 | Food & Drink,
Every holiday is the perfect excuse to indulge in some delicious vino. Whether you’re having a decadent Italian meal or even a cheeseburger, yes a cheeseburger, wine is always there to complement your meal.
With National Cheeseburger Day on September 18, we have teamed up with Allegra Angelo, the in-house sommelier at Vinya, to talk all things wine and cheeseburgers.
Angelo has been in the wine and culinary world for many years, having worked with esteemed restauranteurs and chefs including Jean-Georges, Michelle Bernstein, Jeff McInnis and many more. From internships to pastry chef, server, manager and sommelier, Angelo has learned the ins and outs of the industry. Leaning on our expert, Angelo gave us her top wine picks and current obsessions to drink alongside a delicious cheeseburger.
With pungent umami flavors and vegan cheese, of course, Angelo believes this burger pairs perfectly with a rich, Rhône style white.
Angelo’s current obsession: Cherry House White (Clairette blend) by Villa Creek from Paso Robles, California
Angelo wants to bring attention to the delicious, savory funk of this mushroom-swiss burger, pairing it with a smoky Pinot Noir.
Angelo’s current obsession: Pinot Noir, Show of Hands by Fincher and Co. from Central Otago, New Zealand
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A classic. Angelo likes washing this classic burger down with something medium-bodied and refreshing.
Angelo’s current obsession: Rosé of Zweigelt and Sankt Laurent by Reinisch from Thermenregion, Austria
“Let’s face it, bacon loves wine,” said Angelo. While the Syrah grapes are always a no-brainer and amazing choice, Angelo prefers her crispy candied bacon bits with a well-balanced Zinfandel.
Angelo’s current obsession: Zinfandel, Romàn by Marietta Cellars from Sonoma, California
With delicious flavors of lamb and a minty-yogurt sauce, Angelo suggests contrasting the taste with a tangy side of Rioja. Boasting with acidity and earthy tones, this duo will most definitely be a crowd-pleaser.
Angelo’s current obsession: Rioja Reserva by Murua from Rioja, Spain (look for 2010 or 2011!)
Be sure to stop by and visit Angelo at Vinya to explore the vast, over 750 wine collection she and the team are working on. Vinya is located at 328 Crandon Boulevard on Key Biscayne, with a full-service wine bar and market, curated by expert sommelier Angelo.
Photography by: Courtesy Vinya, Matthieu Joannon, Amirali Mirhashemian