At Natalie’s Estate Winery, a family-owned winery in Oregon, we are passionate about sharing distinctive, small-lot wines that express both craftsmanship and character. While our estate vineyard specializes in Pinot Noir, we also have vineyards located in the Columbia Valley, spanning both Oregon and Washington. Two of our favorites are Sangiovese and Petit Verdot—wines that bring unique personalities to our portfolio and delight guests during Natalie’s Estate wine tasting experiences.
Sangiovese: Rustic Elegance in a Glass
Our Sangiovese comes from the Red Willow Vineyard in the Columbia Valley. We have been producing Sangiovese since 2006 and love the results. It captures the bright cherry fruit, lively acidity, and earthy undertones, making it a timeless and food-friendly choice.
Sangiovese’s real magic lies in its versatility at the table. Its acidity and savory edge complement everything from rustic fare to refined dining, making it a perennial favorite for those seeking Italian red wine pairing ideas.
Favorite Food Pairings with Sangiovese
When it comes to Sangiovese food pairing inspiration, here are a few of our top picks:
- Classic Italian Dishes: The best food with Sangiovese always includes tomato-based recipes like spaghetti marinara, lasagna, or Margherita pizza.
- Grilled Meats: Pork tenderloin, lamb chops, or Italian sausage echo the wine’s savory and smoky character.
- Mushroom Risotto: Earthy mushrooms highlight the rustic notes of the wine.
- Charcuterie Boards: Prosciutto, salami, and Pecorino Romano are tried-and-true companions.
Petit Verdot: Bold, Dark, and Beautiful
Our Petit Verdot comes from the Elephant Mountain vineyard in the Columbia Valley. We have also been producing Petit Verdot since 2006 and are amazed at the density of the fruit. Traditionally a blending grape in Bordeaux, Petit Verdot has developed a loyal following as a single-varietal wine, thanks to its inky color, concentrated fruit, and firm structure.
We love Petit Verdot for its notes of blackberry, violet, spice, and graphite—making it one of the big, bold red wines that pair beautifully with hearty, flavorful dishes.
Favorite Food Pairings with Petit Verdot
For the best food with Petit Verdot, think bold and rich:
- Steak & Short Ribs: Ribeye or slow-braised beef ribs stand up to their tannins.
- Game Meats: Venison, duck, or wild boar complement its depth.
- Smoky Barbecue: Brisket or ribs with tangy sauce enhance their dark fruit and spice.
- Aged Cheeses: Blue cheese or aged Gouda create decadent Petit Verdot food pairings.
The Perfect Pair at Natalie’s Estate Winery
Although grown outside our estate vineyards, Sangiovese and Petit Verdot have become integral to our wine offerings. They offer our guests a chance to explore two styles of wine: one rustic and bright, the other bold and structured.
During a Natalie’s Estate wine tasting in the Willamette Valley or a wine tasting in Newberg, Oregon, guests will enjoy tasting four wines, 2 of which are big reds for which we are best known. And if you join us for a barrel tasting at Natalie’s Estate, you’ll see how sourcing grapes from beyond our vineyards allows us to share a broader range of flavors while staying true to our small-lot, handcrafted philosophy.
Experience Them with Us
As a boutique winery in Oregon, we believe in celebrating both local terroir and the diversity of varietals grown across the Northwest. At Natalie’s Estate Winery, every tasting is winemaker-led, offering not just wine, but stories, connection, and inspiration. Raise a glass with us to rustic Sangiovese, bold Petit Verdot, and the joy of wine shared with food, friends, and family. We invite you to discover the bold flavors of Sangiovese and Petit Verdot at our boutique winery. To schedule a wine tasting with us, please call us at 503-807-5008.