For this dish, just about anything can be added to flavor the rich braising liquid. Some ideas are dried porcini mushrooms (rehydrated and sautéed along with the onions), or even a little ancho or chipotle chile. The dish freezes beautifully and is even better when made ahead of time. A Vine Hill Pinot Noir would be a terrific pair for this meal.

For this classic dish, you could also use fresh pasta for this in place of the wontons. It will take a little longer to cook, of course, but will be just as delicious. Serve with a Sonoma-Cutrer Sonoma Coast Chardonnay.

This simple French inspired rustic braise is served with sautéed apples. Pick an apple that doesn’t turn mushy, but holds its shape when cooked; Cortland, Jonagold, Northern Spy, Winesap, and Golden Delicious all fit the bill nicely.

This is an easy first course and depends on getting the best, freshest and largest scallops possible. Specify to your fishmonger that you want dry pack or diver scallops. Dry-packed scallops are scallops that are shucked, packed and shipped on ice.

Duck breast is a delicacy, and one breast can easily serve two people separated into supremes. An elegant portion is a perfect complement to this rich, delicious salad served with a glass of Founders Reserve Pinot Noir.

This is a simple and rustic stew that could also be prepared in the slow cooker. It’s perfect for the fall season. The rich Owsley Pinot Noir is a treat when paired with this stew.