The Sporting Chef Season 1 Episode 2 Whine About Wine

In episode 2 of The Sporting Chef, titled "Whine About Wine," Chef Scott Leysath introduces viewers to the world of pairing wine with wild game.

Leysath begins the episode by explaining that many people are intimidated by wine, and often stick to the same type of wine for every meal. However, he argues that there are many different types of wine that can be paired with different types of wild game, elevating the dining experience.

Throughout the episode, Leysath prepares a variety of dishes including grilled quail, venison tenderloin, and wild boar ribs. For each dish, he carefully selects a wine that will complement the flavors of the meat. He explains that acidic wines, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, pair well with game that has a strong, gamy flavor. Meanwhile, fuller-bodied red wines, like a Syrah or Zinfandel, pair well with richer, heartier meats like venison.

Leysath also offers tips for selecting and storing wine, such as how to read a wine label and how to properly store opened bottles. He emphasizes the importance of experimenting with different wines and flavors until you find the perfect pairing for your meal.

In addition to cooking with wine, Leysath also shows viewers how to use wine in sauces and marinades. He prepares a red wine reduction sauce to accompany the venison tenderloin and a white wine marinade for the quail.

Throughout the episode, Leysath also shares his thoughts and experiences hunting and cooking wild game. He stresses the importance of utilizing the entire animal, not just the popular cuts of meat, and shares unique recipes for utilizing lesser-known cuts like the heart and liver.

Overall, "Whine About Wine" is an informative and entertaining episode that encourages viewers to step out of their comfort zone and try new wine pairings with their wild game dishes. With Leysath's guidance, viewers will gain a newfound appreciation for the art of pairing wine and food.