2004 Syrah – French Lentil, Barley and Chicken Soup with Goat Cheese Crostini

2004 Syrah – A Cote-Rotie (Northern Rhone) style Syrah that was co-fermented with 5% Viognier. The Viognier addition (although a white grape) adds color stability and contributes to the floral nose. Gamey notes are infused with black cherries & aromatic spices. The elegant tannins deliver a long, full finish. The 2004 Syrah is ready to drink and should continue to improve in the bottle for 5-7 years.

French Lentil, Barley and Chicken Soup with Goat Cheese Crostini

2 tsp olive oil
3 ounces chopped pancetta
3 ribs diced celery
2 diced carrots
1 medium diced onion
5 chopped garlic cloves
3T tomato paste
1 cup red wine
6 cups low-sodium beef stock
2T dried Italian seasonings
4T fresh oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup dry small green lentils (rinsed)
1 cup medium pearl barley
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
Goat Cheese Crostini
1 sliced baguette
3 oz goat cheese

Heat a large soup pot over medium-high heat.

Add the olive oil, pancetta, celery, carrots and onion.

Sauté for five minutes.

Add the garlic and sauté for one minute.

Add the tomato paste and stir until well-combined.

Stir in the wine and stock.

Add the dried and fresh herbs, salt and pepper.

Add lentils and barley.

Bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to medium-low, add chicken, cover, and simmer until barley and lentils are tender, stirring occasionally, about 1 hour.

If soup is too thick, add a little water.

Serve immediately with toasted baguettes with melted goat’s cheese and topped with black pepper.

Serves six.