Have you ever wondered what happens to wine that gets returned to a winery? Well, at Clif Family Winery, we’ve found a delicious way to give it new life – Clif Family Wine Jellies!
Our Wine Jellies are crafted by Preserve Maker Dulce Noonan, who saw an opportunity to reduce waste and create a beautiful new product. Here’s the secret: sometimes wine gets returned because it’s been exposed to extreme temperatures during shipping or storage. While perfectly safe to drink, these wines might not be ideal for selling on the shelf.
But that doesn’t mean the flavor is gone! Dulce transforms this wine into stunning jellies using a simple process. It’s all about using the right ingredients and a little bit of kitchen magic.
Wine Jelly vs. Jam: What’s the Difference?
First things first, let’s talk about the difference between wine jelly and jam. While they might seem similar, there’s a key distinction. Traditional jam is made with real fruit, which gives it its chunky texture. Wine jelly, on the other hand, is made with fruit juice – in this case, wine! This gives it a smoother consistency and allows the unique flavors of the wine to shine through.
From Wine to Jelly: A Simple Transformation
The process for making
Clif Family Wine Jellies is surprisingly straightforward. Dulce starts by combining the wine with pectin, a natural ingredient that helps the jelly set. Then, she slowly adds sugar, bringing the mixture to a boil. During this boiling process, the alcohol in the wine evaporates, leaving behind a delicious and concentrated flavor.
The finished product has less than 0.3% alcohol – comparable to the amount of ethanol found in a ripe banana. So you can enjoy all the
wonderful taste of the wine without any of the intoxicating effects.
Sweet and Sophisticated: How to Enjoy Wine Jellies
Clif Family Wine Jellies are like jams for adults – offering a sophisticated twist on a familiar treat. The flavor profile is a
delightful balance of sweetness with a subtle “kick” that comes from the unique characteristics of each wine.
Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy them:
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Cheese and Charcuterie Board: Wine jellies are a beautiful and flavorful addition to any cheese board. Pair them with a variety of cheeses, meats, and crackers for a truly decadent spread.
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Glaze for Meats: Brush wine jelly on top of pork loin or chicken breasts before roasting for a touch of sweetness and a burst of wine flavor.
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Salad Dressing Magic: Whisk a dollop of wine jelly into your favorite salad dressing for an unexpected and delightful twist.
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Ice Cream Sundae Surprise: For a truly decadent dessert, top a scoop of vanilla ice cream with a dollop of Red Wine Jelly.
Where to Find Clif Family Wine Jellies
Clif Family Wine Jellies are available for purchase at select specialty stores nationwide. You can also find them online at the
Clif Family Winery or visit our Napa Valley Tasting Room, where they’re often incorporated into special wine and food pairing experiences.
Subscribe to our
Mangia! Food Box and receive a 15% discount and flat rate shipping on your purchases.
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Dulce Noonan - Preserved Food Production Manager[/caption]
