Bold Reds Meet Plant-Based Plates: Vegetarian & Vegan Pairings with Willowcroft Wines

When people think of bold red wines, they often imagine them alongside rich meats—steaks, burgers, lamb. But what if you’re living a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle? Great news: you don’t need meat to enjoy a bold red. At Willowcroft Farm Vineyards, we’ve found that our robust reds pair beautifully with creative plant-based dishes. With a bit of flavor strategy, these wines can shine alongside your favorite meatless meals.

Let’s start with a few of Willowcroft’s boldest red wines:

• Petit Verdot – Deep, dark, and structured, with notes of blackberry, violet, and spice.
• Cabernet Sauvignon – A full-bodied red with black fruit character, tannin, and hints of toasted oak.
• Cabernet Franc – Medium to full-bodied, with savory herbaceous notes, cherry, and soft pepper spice.
• Chambourcin – Lush and fruit-forward, with earthy undertones and a smooth, juicy finish.
• Merlot – Soft yet rich, offering plum, cherry, and a touch of chocolate.

1. Mushroom Wellington with Cabernet Franc
   The earthiness of mushrooms paired with flaky pastry makes this dish rich and savory. Cabernet Franc brings out the umami and adds a bit of lift with its natural acidity and herbal edge. For extra depth, include shallots and a red wine reduction in your filling.
2. Smoky Lentil & Walnut Bolognese with Petit Verdot
   This hearty, smoky vegan sauce doesn’t need meat to be bold. Lentils, tomatoes, and walnuts simmered with garlic and smoked paprika create a satisfying texture and depth that match Petit Verdot’s dark fruit and spice.
3. Eggplant Parmesan (Dairy-Free) with Cabernet Sauvignon
   Whether you go traditional or gluten-free, this veganized version of a classic Italian dish holds up to a structured Cab. The acidity of the tomato sauce balances the tannins, while the eggplant’s texture stands up to the wine’s boldness.
4. Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich with Chambourcin
   Chambourcin’s ripe fruit and slight earthiness complement the tangy, smoky BBQ flavor of jackfruit. Add a crunchy slaw and serve on a toasted bun for a laid-back but delicious pairing.
5. Grilled Portobello & Veggie Skewers with Merlot
   Grilling brings out the sweetness in vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, while portobellos add chew and umami. Merlot’s round body and smooth tannins harmonize well, making for a balanced and flavorful meal.

Pairing bold reds with vegetarian and vegan dishes is all about focusing on depth of flavor, texture, and umami elements. Roasted, grilled, or smoked ingredients tend to perform best. With Willowcroft’s versatile selection of red wines, you’re never limited by your diet—only by your imagination.

Come visit us to taste these wines and discover even more plant-based pairings. Whether you’re a full-time vegan or just trying something new, a bold Willowcroft red is waiting for you.

🍷 Cheers to flavor without compromise!