Chimichurri with Sage and Herbs from White Rose Estate

This three-generation family chimichurri recipe from Greg Urmini, Operations Lead at White Rose Estate, was recently featured at the estate’s summer alfresco dining series. Perfect for marinating chicken or steak at a summer BBQ, it’s made even better with Greg’s recommended wine pairings provided below.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup olive oil
• 2–3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (about 1/5 part)
• 2–3 teaspoons soy sauce (about 1/5 part)
• 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (loosely packed)
• ¼ cup fresh sage leaves, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh oregano, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced (add more to taste)
• Optional: 1–2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice for brightness
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

INGREDIENTS

1. In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Whisk until blended.
2. Add the parsley, sage, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and garlic. Stir until well mixed.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add vinegar or lemon juice if you prefer a tangier chimichurri.
4. Let the chimichurri rest for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve as a sauce or marinade for grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.

WINE PAIRING RECOMMENDATIONS

General Wine Characteristics: For steaks, find a wine that is richer in complexion and has some meat and bones to hold up with a richer meal. You can easily use this chimichurri with a chicken, and that would pair beautifully with a floral and fresh Chardonnay.  

• 2023 White Rose Estate Collectors Contemporary: A dense core of dark fruits and lifted florals defines the aromatics, offering both richness and elegance. On the palate, the wine carries velvety, supple tannins that provide depth and texture, balanced by the focus and intensity characteristic of 100% whole-cluster fermentation. The result is a wine of both power and finesse, where concentrated fruit is framed by structure and energy, leading to a long, resonant finish.

• 2022 Woodshed Old Vine Pinot Noir – This wine opens with inviting aromatics of brown sugar, toasty oak, and delicate florals, layered with ripe dark cherry and strawberry. On the palate, it shows a plush, concentrated core of cherry cola, rhubarb, and orange rind, accented by creamy richness and decadence. The oak influence adds depth and warmth, while the elevated alcohol contributes to a sense of power without overshadowing the fruit. A firm, structured frame supports the lush mid-palate, leading to a finish that truly pops with energy and vibrancy.

• 2022 Ambar Dundee Hills Chardonnay – The wine opens with vivid aromatics of grapefruit, green apple, pear, and white florals, accented by hints of almond and stone fruit. On the palate, it reveals layers of peach, apricot, and ripe pear, with a plush, savory richness that feels both flashy and compelling. While generous in fruit expression, the wine remains balanced and convivial, showing freshness and lift rather than tropical heaviness. A subtle thread of spice emerges toward the finish, supported by a touch of glycerol weight, leaving the palate both salivating and satisfied.