Cookin’ on the Coast 2024 – Episode 06:
Casal Garcia Vinho Verde w/Spanish Shrimp Tapas
In Episode #6 of Cookin’ on the Coast, Shanyn Ward from Liquor Plus returns to showcase the Casal Garcia Vinho Verde. This wine is crafted from carefully selected grape varieties sourced from the expansive vineyards of Portugal’s Vinho Verde region. Known for its smooth, fresh character, Casal Garcia Vinho Verde has a delicate aroma and is recognized by its iconic blue label, inspired by the intricate embroideries of the Minho region.
This crisp white wine offers a blend of citrus notes, including lime and grapefruit, along with hints of green apple, minerals, and a touch of white pepper. With its dry palate, subtle effervescence, and medium-plus acidity, it’s a refreshing, easy-drinking wine that pairs well with food or can be enjoyed on its own—ideal for a casual weeknight sip at 9.5% ABV.
The story behind Casal Garcia is as rich as the wine itself. During a train journey from the Douro to Porto, French winemaker Eugène Hélisse was captivated by the vineyards of Quinta da Aveleda. After persuading the owner, Roberto Guedes, to hire him, Hélisse added a distinctive touch—draping a lace handkerchief over the bottles to wipe away dust. This charming tradition remains a hallmark of the brand today.
Now sold in over 70 countries, Casal Garcia is the world’s best-selling Vinho Verde. The brand has spanned generations and continues to evolve with market trends, including the introduction of Casal Garcia Fruitzy, a new line of fruit-infused wines.
The Casal Garcia Vinho Verde is the perfect companion to Chef Heidi’s Spanish-style shrimp, with its lively citrus notes and slight effervescence enhancing the dish beautifully.
Head to a Liquor Plus liquor store near you to pickup the Casal Garcia Vinho Verde.
These Spanish-style shrimp will knock your socks off! Chef Heidi’s Spanish Shrimp Tapas are ultra-garlicky, tender, and a little bit spicy.
This quick and flavourful garlic shrimp sauté is perfect for seafood lovers. Made with tender shrimp (or prawns), the recipe brings together bold flavours from minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and a hint of spice from New Mexico chili or paprika.
In just a few minutes, the shrimp are sautéed to perfection—turning pink and tender, ready to be served with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious garlicky juices. For an extra layer of flavour, you can finish the dish with a splash of sherry vinegar or dry sherry.
Ideal for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive starter, this dish is simple yet packed with savoury goodness!
While many wines could pair well with the dish, this Vinho Verde brings an extra layer of flavour, with fruity and citrusy notes that enhance the garlic shrimp.
Shanyn Ward and Chef Heidi discuss how Casal Garcia Vinho Verde complements the dish beautifully, while also exploring the wine’s flavour profile and regional origins.
Grab the recipes below and all the ingredients at your local Country Grocer:
Liquor Plus Sponsors Cookin’ on the Coast
Each week, Liquor Plus sponsors the Pairings segment of Cookin’ on the Coast on CHEK. The show features unique food and drink pairings offered by BC suppliers, with recipes created by Chef Heidi Fink and sponsored by Country Grocer. All of the beverages featured on the program can be found in Liquor Plus stores across Vancouver Island.
