Are you itching to get started grilling?  Here is an excellent way to usher in the grilling season with "Coffee and Pepper Crusted Rib Eye Steak" from RustRidge Winery (St. Helena, CA).  Nothing says grilling like a thick, hearty steak and nothing compliments one better than an amazing wine.  Serve this steak with RustRidge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and you'll be in grilling heaven!

Coffee and Pepper Crusted Rib Eye Steak

(Compliments of Kendall and Tom)

• 2 Tablespoon Whole Coffee Beans
• 2 Tablespoon Black Peppercorns
• 2 Rib Eye or New York Steaks (any size will do, but the thicker the better)
• Olive Oil
• Coarse Sea Salt

Allow your steaks to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes prior to seasoning.

Grind coffee beans and peppercorns to a coarse grind in a coffee grinder.
Lightly salt the steaks on both sides. Press the coffee mixture evenly onto both sides of the steaks.

Drizzle the steaks lightly with Olive Oil then grill on preheated grate over direct high heat for 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare depending on the thickness of the steaks, or to taste. Remove the steaks from the grill, cover loosely with foil, and let rest 5-10 minutes before serving. Serve with RustRidge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon.

About 2003 RustRidge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

An antithetical Cabernet, the 2003 RustRidge Estate Cabernet is full of contrast and complexity.  The bright red, cherry-candy color appears too fun to even begin to denote the sophistication of this wine and foreshadows the union of opposites that will pervade the senses.    The nose offers warm black current and cool cherry cream with a sprinkle of cocoa powder.  Underneath lies a hint of finely integrated oak.  The texture is soft and supple, but with fine-grain, velvety tannins on the finish.   Dry on the palate, but creamy and smooth over the teeth.   This Cabernet shows exemplary acid structure fleshed with plenty of creamy red and black fruit and a touch of spice on the palate.  A polished and sophisticated Cabernet Sauvignon embodying a harmonious union of opposites.

About RustRidge

The secluded RustRidge Winery property was once a large thoroughbred horse ranch. Now it reflects two passions: wine and horses. They continue to breed and race thoroughbreds and each spring; just about the time new buds form on the grape vines, new foals are born. The winery is housed in a renovated cattle barn. Vines are organically grown and dry farmed. The grapes are used to create RustRidge's spectrum of award-winning wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Zinfandel.