An autumnal game dish with a fine balance

Wine with food always means searching for harmony and culinary balance. This recipe combines tenderly cooked venison medallions with an aromatic cranberry jus and creamy pumpkin gnocchi. The fruity sweetness of the berries creates an exciting contrast to the strong game, while the delicate aroma of the pumpkin gives the dish an autumnal warmth. Wine and food enter into an elegant dialog here, in which the earthy depth of the game and the fruity freshness of the berries come together perfectly. A feast that suits both a fine dinner table and an autumnal family meal.

Ideal wine accompaniment: Blaufränkisch (Burgenland, Austria)

This Blaufränkisch from Burgenland impresses with its exciting combination of fruit, spice and freshness. It has aromas of dark berries, sour cherries and a hint of violets, which combine perfectly with the sweet and sour cranberry component. Its elegant tannin structure supports the venison medallions, while the fine acidity creates a balance with the creamy gnocchi. The typical mineral vein of the Blaufränkisch ensures that the dish is not too heavy, but retains its autumnal elegance. This wine combines depth and finesse, making it the ideal accompaniment.

Further wine recommendations for this dish

Pinot Noir, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru AOC (Côte de Nuits, Bourgogne, France)
A Pinot Noir from Bourgogne is a particularly fine alternative. Its delicate red fruit aromas of raspberry, cherry and some strawberry reflect the cranberries, while the subtle wood notes and earthy hints elegantly absorb the gamey aromas. Thanks to its lively acidity structure, it never seems heavy, but emphasizes the delicate texture of the venison medallions. A wine that focuses on noble restraint and underlines the dish with fine elegance.

Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG (Tuscany, Italy)
A powerful Chianti Classico Riserva brings ripe cherry aromas, dried herbs and a light spice of tobacco to the glass. These notes harmonize perfectly with the autumnal character of game and pumpkin. The tannins are present but polished, giving structure to the meat without overpowering the creamy gnocchi garnish. The Mediterranean character of the Chianti gives the dish a touch of Italian joie de vivre and creates a hearty, warm overall composition.

Syrah, Cornas AOC (Northern Rhône, France)
A classic Syrah from the northern Rhône with notes of blackberry, black pepper and violet is an excellent match. Its spiciness enhances the aromatic cranberry jus, while the dark fruit harmonizes perfectly with the game. With its medium to strong structure, it accompanies the dish confidently without dominating. It brings depth and a little rustic earthiness that rounds off the autumnal composition.

Tempranillo Rioja Reserva DOCa (Rioja, Spain)
A Rioja Reserva with elegant fruit fullness, gentle wood spice and a fine vanilla note complements the dish in a Spanish way. The red berry aromas pick up on the cranberries, while the supple tannins form a harmonious combination with the venison medallions. The subtle sweetness of the pumpkin is perfectly accompanied by the warm spicy notes of the wine. A companion that adds Mediterranean depth to the dish.

Cabernet Sauvignon (Coonawarra, Australia)
A Cabernet Sauvignon from Coonawarra with cassis notes, fine spice and eucalyptus accents brings a modern, international touch. Its tannic structure is powerful enough to do justice to game, while the wine’s freshness balances the creamy gnocchi. The sweet and sour cranberry sauce finds a congenial partner in the dark fruit flavors. An example of a perfect pairing from the New World.

The recipe: