December 2024 Wine Pairings

cabernet sauvignon with duck empanada manchego Leoness wine pairing

Updated April 10, 2026. These December 2024 wine pairings are archived and no longer active, but remain available for inspiration and reference.

December 2024 Cellar Series

2019 CS Cabernet Sauvignon
Smoked Duck Empanada
Manchego Cheese, Roasted Garlic, Pepitas, Cranberry Poblano Relish

Sommelier Notes

This Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with smoked duck, balancing savory richness with layered fruit.
Cranberry and poblano bring contrast while roasted garlic adds depth.
The result is a structured and balanced pairing with a smooth finish.

Winemaker Notes

Temecula Valley
75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot

Aged for 24 months in French, American, and European oak barrels, with 36% new oak.
Blackberry and boysenberry lead with notes of lavender, mint, and sweet oak.
The finish is long with soft tannins.

syrah wine with mushroom filo goat cheese Leoness wine pairing

December 2024 Vineyard Series

2022 VS Syrah Alessandro Vineyard Summit Block
Mushroom Filo Triangle
Goat Cheese, Sundried Tomatoes, Pine Nuts, Peppered Blackberry Chimichurri

Sommelier Notes

This Syrah pairs well with earthy mushroom and goat cheese, highlighting depth and texture.
Blackberry chimichurri adds contrast while pine nuts bring balance.
The pairing delivers a layered and savory experience.

Winemaker Notes

Temecula Valley
100% Syrah

Aged for 21 months in French and European oak barrels, with 50% new oak.
Cherry and blackberry lead with hints of smoked spice, pepper, and vanilla.
The finish is smooth with lingering complexity.

red blend wine with crab spring roll ponzu Leoness wine pairing

December 2024 Signature Series

2022 SS Compilation
Dungeness Crab Spring Roll
Miso Sesame Marinated Crab Salad, Grilled Peach Ponzu Dipping Sauce

Sommelier Notes

This blend pairs well with Dungeness crab, balancing delicate sweetness with bright acidity.
Miso sesame adds savory depth while ponzu brings contrast.
The pairing is clean, balanced, and layered.

Winemaker Notes

Temecula Valley
33% Zinfandel, 27% Petite Sirah, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot, 9% Malbec, 7% Cabernet Franc

Aged for 30 months in French and American oak barrels, with 40% new oak.
Plum and blackberry lead with notes of mint, spice, and black pepper.
The finish is smooth with soft structure.