08/21/2026
Pours & Pairings 🍷✨
Episode 5: Marilyn Jean Float with Strawberry Rosé Sorbet 🍓
Serves 8-10
Ingredients:
• 1 pound fresh strawberries, stemmed and quartered (about 3 cups)
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups McConnell Estates Rosé of Tempranillo
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
• Pinch of kosher salt
• Fresh mint sprigs (optional)
• Freshly ground pink peppercorns (optional)
• 2 bottles Marilyn Jean Sparkling Rosé, well chilled
Recipe:
1. Macerate the strawberries: combine the berries and sugar in a bowl and let stand for at least 20 minutes, or until the sugar is completely dissolved (you can also leave it refrigerated overnight).
2. Transfer the strawberries and all of their juices to a blender and add the Rosé of Tempranillo, lemon juice, vanilla, corn syrup, and salt. Blend until completely smooth (I opted to use an immersion blender which works just as well).
3. Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds. You should end up with about 3-4 cups of sorbet base.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
5. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for 1-2 hours, or until firm enough to scoop.
6. Place the glasses in the freezer for 10–15 minutes before serving.
7. Add 1 generous scoop of sorbet to each chilled glass, then slowly top with chilled Marilyn Jean Sparkling Rosé.
8. Garnish with fresh mint or freshly ground pink peppercorns and serve immediately.
👩🏼🍳 Chef’s Notes:
• Corn syrup improves texture by lowering the freezing point, making the sorbet easier to scoop and giving it a smooth mouthfeel.
• Rosé pulls double duty. The alcohol helps keep the sorbet soft, while the wine adds depth of flavor without making it overly sweet.
• Never skip the salt. It balances acidity and enhances the strawberry’s aroma for a more vibrant flavor.
• Pink peppercorn may sound unusual, but trust me! It adds a subtle floral spice that naturally complements strawberries and sparkling rosé.
