Bordeaux and Lamb Shanks Dinner

MENU: Bordeaux and Lamb Shanks Dinner

Reds from the north (or right) bank of the Dordogne River tend to be more luscious and less austere on the whole than those of the left bank, with black cherry and plum flavors and often a peppery spiciness. Right-bank wines' ripe generosity of flavor makes them pair especially well with rich meats, such as succulent slow-roasted lamb shanks. Cabernet Franc's light green edge often makes these wines a fine partner for vegetable side dishes as well.

Starter

Bread Salad with Prosciutto
Bread salads are particularly wine-friendly because toasted bread can take on so many flavors. This recipe incorporates salty prosciutto, tangy sheep’s-milk cheese, sweet-crunchy almonds, and a licorice-y splash of Pernod.

Main Course

Pot-Roasted Lamb Shanks with Cannellini Beans
The spare ingredients yield an incredibly rich sauce that infuses the beans. The currant and berry notes in a right bank Bordeaux brighten this luxurious dish.

Side Dish

Chard with Orange and Bacon
The citrusy greens enhance the fruitiness of a Merlot-laden Bordeaux. This side dish would also be delicious with swordfish or pork.