Coq au vin blanc with Chardonnay
(Chicken Maryland in Chardonnay Cream Sauce)
At Winmark Wines, we take pride in crafting exceptional wines that not only stand alone but also elevate culinary experiences. Our Winmark 2022 Single Vineyard Reserve Chardonnay is a perfect example, with its balanced acidity and rich flavours that enhance a wide range of dishes. Today, we’re excited to share a recipe that showcases our Chardonnay in our take on a traditional French Coq au vin blanc.
Coq au Vin, a classic French dish, has a history steeped in tradition and folklore. Originating from the rustic kitchens of rural France, this dish was a practical way for farmers to make use of older roosters, whose tough meat required long, slow cooking to become tender. The earliest recipes date back to ancient Gaul, where the dish was made with red wine to mask the gaminess of the rooster. Coq au Vin gained popularity and refinement over the centuries, becoming a staple of French cuisine. It was famously popularized by Julia Child in the 20th century, who introduced it to American audiences through her cookbook "Mastering the Art of French Cooking" and her television show. Today, Coq au Vin is celebrated for its rich, deep flavors and is enjoyed worldwide as a symbol of French culinary heritage.
Coq au Vin Blanc is a delightful twist on the traditional French dish, Coq au Vin. Instead of the usual red wine, this version uses white wine, often a Chardonnay, to create a lighter yet equally flavourful dish. The chicken is braised in the wine with aromatic vegetables such as onions, garlic, and mushrooms, which infuse the meat with a delicate, rich taste. The addition of cream at the end of the cooking process adds a velvety texture to the sauce, making it perfect for serving over rice or with crusty bread. This dish is a wonderful way to enjoy the complex flavours of a quality white wine in a comforting, hearty meal.
