Cookout Recipes & Wine Pairing

laura.davidson • May 22, 2023

Cookout Recipes

As summer approaches, it's time to fire up the grill and enjoy some outdoor dining with family and friends. And what better way to elevate your barbecue experience than by pairing it with some delicious wines? In this blog post, we're excited to share two amazing recipe and wine pairings that are perfect for your next backyard gathering. First, we'll show you how to make a mouthwatering Pinot Noir BBQ sauce that's sure to become a staple at all your cookouts. Then, we'll share a tasty and refreshing Potato Salad recipe that's a great complement to any grilled meat. And of course, we'll recommend some of our favorite Hocking Hills Winery wines to go with each dish. So get ready to impress your guests with some fantastic flavors and unforgettable pairings!

Recipe by Josie Coler, Hocking Hills Winery Tasting Room Manager


Pinot Noir BBQ Sauce


Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp. olive oil
  • 1/3 cup minced onion
  • 2 tbsp. minced garlic
  • 1/2 tbsp. cumin
  • 1-2 chipotles in adobo (depending on your spice level)
  • 1 cup Hocking Hills Winery Ohio Pinot Noir
  • 1 cup Ketchup
  • 2 tbsp. soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)


Directions:

  • In a medium saucepan add oil, garlic, onion, chipotles, and cumin. Simmer until onions are translucent.
  • Add wine and simmer until it has reduced to about half or for about 6 or so minutes. 
  • Reduce heat to low and add the rest of your ingredients. Stir until sugar has dissolved, simmer on low for 10 minutes stirring occasionally.
  • Take off heat and use an immersion blender until desired consistency.



Potato Salad


Wine Pairing:

Hocking Hills Winery Lake Logan Blush


Ingredients:

  • 8-10 potatoes
  • 1 cup mayo
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup dijon mustard
  • 1/3 cup dill relish
  • 2 tbsp. freshly chopped dill
  • 4 stalks chopped celery
  • 1/3 cup minced onion
  • 1 tbs. paprika
  • 1 tbs. garlic powder
  • salt & pepper to taste


Directions:

  • Peel and chop potatoes into small chunks. Fill a pot with water and add potatoes, bring to a boil until fork tender. (**Pro tip: add 2 tbsp. of chicken bouillon for extra flavor)
  • While boiling potatoes make your dressing. Into a bowl add mayo, sour cream, mustard, relish, and seasonings. Mix until completely combined.
  • Add dill, celery, and onion. Once potatoes are fork tender, drain and add to your mixture.
  • Mix well and chill in the fridge until it's time for the cookout!

**Quicker option: sub out frozen diced potatoes in your microwave for a potato salad in a pinch!



April 22, 2026
Plan the perfect weekend in Hocking Hills with a simple guide to hiking, dining, and relaxing. Ideal for a balanced, easy, and memorable trip.
Salmon entree on a white plate
April 16, 2026
Discover where to eat in Hocking Hills, from casual local favorites to relaxed dining and drinks. Perfect spots to unwind after a day outdoors.
Hocking Hills Waterfall
April 8, 2026
Discover the best things to do in Hocking Hills beyond hiking, from scenic trails to local wineries, great food, and relaxing ways to enjoy your time.
May 21, 2025
Fresh pours. Award-winning blends.
group toasting with wine
By laura.davidson April 2, 2025
Hocking Hills Winery celebrates 10 years!
Wine glass and wine bottle
By laura.davidson September 26, 2024
Celebrate the Flavors of Fall: Introducing Two New Wines at Hocking Hills Winery!
By laura.davidson June 14, 2024
2024 Summer Wine Release: 2022 Léon Millot & Ohio Concord
White Wine Bottle from Hoking Hills Winery
By laura.davidson May 24, 2024
Four New Wines Released at Hocking Hills Winery!
pizza and salad with a wine flight
By laura.davidson May 14, 2024
Introducing Pizzas and Shareable Salads to Our Menu at Hocking Hills Winery!
December 27, 2023
Celebrating an Incredible Year Together - A Heartfelt Thank You From Hocking Hills Winery and 58 West!
Show More