Grilling season is the perfect excuse to gather outdoors, enjoy bold flavors, and open a great bottle of wine. When it comes to summer grilling, Sterling Vineyards 2022 Platinum Cabernet Sauvignon is a natural companion, offering balance, freshness, and versatility that shine alongside both seafood and red meat.
These two skewer recipes bring variety and elegance to your grill, making them ideal for relaxed summer evenings or special occasions alike.
Summary
This grilling guide features lobster tail skewers with basil butter and filet mignon kebabs with summer vegetables, both paired with Sterling Vineyards 2022 Platinum Cabernet Sauvignon for a balanced and memorable outdoor meal.
Why Platinum Cabernet Sauvignon Works for Grilling
Sterling Vineyards 2022 Platinum Cabernet Sauvignon showcases expressive Napa Valley fruit layered with dark berry notes, subtle spice, and polished tannins. It is bold enough for steak yet balanced enough to complement richer seafood preparations.
This wine pairs beautifully with grilled dishes because:
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Juicy acidity lifts rich, flame kissed flavors
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Dark fruit notes complement both shellfish and beef
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Refined tannins enhance char without overwhelming delicate textures
It is a Cabernet that transitions seamlessly from lobster to filet mignon.
Grilled Lobster Tail Skewers with Basil Butter
Ingredients
- 6 lobster tails
- 4 ounces unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
- ½ lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt and freshly ground pepper
Directions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for 20 to 30 minutes before grilling.
- Preheat the grill to medium high.
- Place the lobster tails shell side up on a cutting board. Using kitchen shears, cut through the shell vertically about halfway down the tail. Loosen the meat while keeping it partially attached to the shell. Insert a skewer through the meat to prevent curling. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, combine butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, and basil.
- Place the lobster tails shell side up on the grill and sear for 3 minutes. Flip the tails to expose the meat, baste with basil butter, and grill until the meat is firm and opaque, about 5 to 9 minutes depending on size.
- Arrange on a platter and serve with remaining basil butter.
Filet Mignon Kebabs with Summer Vegetables
Ingredients
- 2 cups soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ pounds filet mignon, cut into 1½ inch cubes
- 2 bell peppers, cut into 1½ inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into 1½ inch pieces
- 12 ounces whole cremini mushrooms, cleaned and trimmed
Directions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for 20 to 30 minutes before grilling.
- In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic until the sugar dissolves. Add filet mignon cubes, toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours.
- Preheat the grill to medium high.
- Thread red onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms onto skewers, alternating with cubes of beef. Aim for three pieces of beef per skewer.
- Grill kebabs, turning to sear all sides, until cooked to your preferred doneness, about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
- Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.
About the Recipe Partner
These recipes were created in partnership with Emily Cooper, a classically trained cook, recipe developer, and wine enthusiast based in Oakland. With experience across restaurant kitchens and culinary strategy for brands like Good Eggs and Momofuku, Emily specializes in seasonal California inspired cooking designed to pair beautifully with wine.
You can find more of her work at emilycoopercooks.com or on Instagram at @emilycoopercooks.
FAQs
What makes 2022 Platinum Cabernet Sauvignon good for grilling?
Its balance of dark fruit, acidity, and polished tannins allows it to complement both grilled seafood and red meat without overpowering either.
Can these recipes be prepared ahead of time?
Yes. Marinades, compound butter, and vegetable prep can all be done in advance to make grilling easier.
Is Cabernet Sauvignon a good pairing for lobster?
When prepared with butter and grilled, lobster pairs well with a balanced Cabernet that offers freshness and restrained tannins.
