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Steamed Mussels in Chardonnay and Herbs
As spring warms into summer, there’s no better time to savor bright, elegant flavors that bring people together around the table. This simple yet stunning steamed mussel recipe, infused and paired with Wente Family Vineyards Morning Fog Chardonnay, is a celebration of the season—and of America’s pioneering Chardonnay legacy. A Perfect Pairing for Entertaining: Whether you’re planning a casual al fresco dinner or a coastal-inspired weekend gathering, this recipe is easy enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for guests. And with Wente’s legacy in every bottle, you’re not just serving dinner—you’re serving a story over 140 years in the making.
Ingredients
2 lbs fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
1 cup Wente Morning Fog Chardonnay
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 shallots, thinly sliced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tbsp unsalted butter
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1/2 cup chopped parsley
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
1
Prep the mussels: Rinse and scrub mussels under cold water, discarding any that are open and don’t close when tapped.
2
Sauté the aromatics: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shallots, garlic, and red pepper flakes, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
3
Add the wine: Pour in Morning Fog Chardonnay, scraping up any bits on the bottom of the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4
Steam the mussels: Add mussels to the pan and cover. Cook for 5–7 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until all the mussels open.
5
Finish the dish: Remove from heat. Discard any unopened mussels. Stir in butter, lemon zest, juice, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
6
Serve with crusty bread for dipping—and a chilled glass of Morning Fog Chardonnay.
A Chardonnay That Changed the Game
Wente Family Vineyards has a storied history rooted in innovation and excellence. In 1912, second-generation winemaker Ernest Wente imported Chardonnay cuttings from France and planted them in California, giving birth to what is now famously known as the Wente Clone—the most widely planted Chardonnay clone in the U.S. Today, over 75% of all California Chardonnay can trace its lineage back to the Wente Clone.
Our Morning Fog Chardonnay is a nod to the cooling marine influence of the Pacific Ocean, where coastal fog drifts through the vineyards, preserving crisp acidity and vibrant aromatics. It’s an ideal wine to cook with—and sip alongside—fresh seafood dishes like these delicious and quick mussels.
Why It Works
The bright acidity and citrus notes of Morning Fog Chardonnay cut through the richness of the mussels and butter, while its hints of green apple and vanilla bring depth and harmony to the dish. Cooking with the same wine you’re sipping ensures every bite and sip sing in perfect unison.