Capital Grille's 'Icons of the Vine' Wine Pairing Returns to Cincinnati

Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, August 6th 2025 at 16:50 GMT by Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
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Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or just looking for the perfect pour to go with your next steak dinner, this is the season to sip and savor.

Capital Grille's Generous Pour Returns to Cincinnati with Icons of the Vine Wine Pairings

CINCINNATI, Ohio – Wine enthusiasts and fine dining aficionados in the Queen City have reason to celebrate as The Capital Grille announces the triumphant return of its beloved summer event, The Generous Pour. This year, the event takes on an elevated theme titled "Icons of the Vine," promising an unforgettable journey through some of the world's most legendary vineyards and winemakers. Running from now through September 1, the promotion invites guests to indulge in unlimited pours of premium wines paired meticulously with the restaurant's signature dishes, all under the expert guidance of Cincinnati's own Chef David Himmelberger.

At the heart of The Generous Pour is a curated selection of seven exceptional wines, each chosen to represent the pinnacle of viticultural excellence. These "Icons of the Vine" hail from renowned regions across the globe, showcasing a diverse array of varietals that highlight innovation, tradition, and terroir. Guests can expect to savor bold reds, crisp whites, and everything in between, with pours generously served alongside multi-course meals designed to complement the flavors. For a fixed price of $35 added to any dinner entrée, diners unlock this bottomless wine experience, making it an accessible luxury for both novices and connoisseurs alike.

Chef David Himmelberger, the culinary maestro at The Capital Grille's Cincinnati location, emphasizes the event's role in democratizing high-end wine tasting. "The Generous Pour is more than just an event; it's an invitation to explore the stories behind these iconic wines," Himmelberger shared in a recent interview. With years of experience crafting menus that blend classic steakhouse fare with contemporary twists, Himmelberger has tailored pairings that elevate the dining experience. For instance, the robust Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley pairs seamlessly with the restaurant's dry-aged porterhouse steak, its dark fruit notes and velvety tannins cutting through the richness of the meat for a harmonious balance.

Diving deeper into the wine lineup, the "Icons of the Vine" collection features standout bottles that pay homage to trailblazing winemakers. One highlight is the Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore from Tuscany, Italy – a Super Tuscan blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot that embodies elegance and power. This wine, often described as having layers of blackberry, espresso, and licorice, is ideally matched with The Capital Grille's seared tenderloin with butter-poached lobster tails, where the wine's structure enhances the dish's succulent textures.

Another gem is the Penfolds Grange from South Australia, widely regarded as one of the world's greatest Shiraz-based wines. Its intense aromas of black plum, vanilla, and spice make it a perfect companion to the bone-in ribeye, allowing the wine's complexity to unfold with each bite of the charred, juicy steak. On the white wine front, the lineup includes the Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand, known for its vibrant citrus and tropical fruit profiles. This refreshing pour pairs beautifully with lighter options like the pan-seared Chilean sea bass, where its acidity cuts through the fish's buttery finish.

Not to be overlooked are domestic favorites such as the Chateau Montelena Chardonnay from Napa Valley, a nod to the historic 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting that put California wines on the global map. With notes of pear, hazelnut, and subtle oak, it's an excellent match for the lobster and crab cakes, bringing out the seafood's natural sweetness. Rounding out the selection are wines like the Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label Champagne from France, offering effervescent bubbles that kick off the meal with finesse, and the Graham's 20-Year Tawny Port from Portugal, a dessert wine with caramel and nutty undertones that pairs divinely with the crème brûlée or chocolate espresso cake.

What sets this year's Generous Pour apart is its focus on the "icons" – not just the wines, but the visionary figures behind them. The event educates guests through sommelier-led insights, sharing anecdotes about pioneers like Robert Mondavi, who revolutionized American winemaking, or Baroness Philippine de Rothschild of Château Mouton Rothschild, whose artistic labels and bold blends have become legendary. Chef Himmelberger notes that this narrative element adds depth to the experience: "When you understand the passion and history in each bottle, it transforms a simple sip into a story."

The Capital Grille's Cincinnati outpost, nestled in the heart of the city, provides the perfect backdrop for this event. Known for its sophisticated ambiance with dark wood paneling, white tablecloths, and attentive service, the restaurant has long been a staple for special occasions and business dinners. During The Generous Pour, the venue buzzes with energy as groups gather to sample the wines, often extending their evenings with lively discussions about favorites. Himmelberger recommends starting with a flight-like progression, moving from lighter whites to fuller reds, allowing palates to evolve throughout the meal.

For those new to wine pairing, the event serves as an educational gateway. The restaurant's team of certified sommeliers is on hand to guide selections, explaining concepts like tannin structure, acidity balance, and food-wine synergy. This inclusivity is a key draw, as Himmelberger points out: "We want everyone to feel welcome, whether you're a seasoned collector or just curious about trying something new." Health-conscious diners will appreciate that portions are generous yet portioned to encourage mindful enjoyment, aligning with modern dining trends.

Beyond the wines and pairings, The Generous Pour underscores The Capital Grille's commitment to seasonal events that foster community and celebration. In a city like Cincinnati, with its growing food scene and appreciation for craft beverages, this promotion taps into local enthusiasm for experiential dining. Past iterations have drawn crowds from across the region, and this year's theme promises to build on that success by spotlighting timeless icons in a fresh light.

As summer winds down, The Generous Pour offers a timely escape, blending indulgence with discovery. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a spot at this limited-time event. Whether you're toasting a milestone or simply savoring the season, Chef David Himmelberger and his team at The Capital Grille invite you to raise a glass to the Icons of the Vine – where every pour tells a tale of excellence. For more details, visit The Capital Grille's website or call the Cincinnati location directly. This is more than dining; it's a vinous adventure waiting to unfold.

Read the Full Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati Article at:
[ https://local12.com/news/arc-cincinnati/capital-grilles-generous-pour-returns-with-icons-of-the-vine-wine-pairings-cincinnati-chef-david-himmelberger ]

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Capital Grille's 'Icons of the Vine' Wine Pairing Returns to Cincinnati

Capital Grille's Generous Pour Returns to Cincinnati with Icons of the Vine Wine Pairings