At Frank Family, the art of winemaking is deeply connected to the land we farm and the bounty it provides. Across our estate vineyards, including the picturesque Winston Hill in Rutherford, garden spaces flourish alongside the vines, filled with vibrant produce and fresh florals that spark seasonal creativity. This year’s tomato season — complete with delicious recipes and wine pairings—is inspired by the beauty and abundance of Napa itself, where fruit, vegetables, and wine grow side by side in harmony.
“We are so grateful to live in a beautiful place like Napa that lends itself to growing virtually anything in our own backyards – our fruit, our vegetables, and our grapes.” – Leslie Frank, Founder, Frank Family Vineyards
View the complete pairing and entertaining guide.
Perfect Pairings: Fresh Recipes for Napa Valley Zinfandel
Celebrate tomato season with fresh, inspired recipes that pair beautifully with Frank Family’s Napa Valley Zinfandel. Our Heirloom Tomato Spaghetti Sauce showcases sun-ripened tomatoes in a rich, aromatic blend, complemented by classic Bruschetta with garden-fresh tomatoes and basil. Together, they create the perfect canvas to enjoy every sip of Zinfandel, where bright acidity, ripe fruit, and a hint of spice elevate your summer dining experience.
Heirloom Tomato Spaghetti Sauce
There’s something irresistible about fresh tomato sauce tossed with pasta — its vibrant acidity and sweet juiciness create a truly satisfying dish. This version, crafted by Chef Christina Machamer, highlights the beauty of peak-season tomatoes in a simple yet elevated way. Choosing the right wine to accompany it means finding one that complements these bright flavors without overshadowing them. Frank Family’s Napa Valley Zinfandel offers just that. With its bold fruit aromas, balanced structure, and gentle tannins, this wine enhances the natural richness of the sauce, making every bite and sip a perfectly harmonious experience.
View full recipe in the complete guide!
Bite-Sized Summer: Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta
Bursting with the vibrant flavors of peak-season produce, this Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta layers juicy tomatoes with fragrant basil, rich olive oil, and a splash of aged balsamic atop crisp toasted baguette slices. Each bite offers the perfect balance of sweetness, acidity, and crunch. Paired with Frank Family’s Napa Valley Zinfandel, the dish comes to life—the wine’s bold fruit character complements the tomatoes beautifully, while its spice and smooth tannins harmonize with the balsamic’s depth, making this bite-sized starter a standout for summer entertaining.
Explore the full recipe and pairing guide!
Setting the Scene: Inspired Tablescapes & Hosting Tips
Celebrate summer entertaining with inspired tablescape ideas and hosting tips to elevate your gatherings with Frank Family’s Napa Valley Zinfandel. From fresh florals and crisp linens to thoughtfully curated settings, every detail creates an atmosphere of effortless elegance. Paired with our bold, fruit-forward Zinfandel, these essentials set the stage for memorable moments where style, ambiance, and conversation come together in perfect harmony.
Setting the Table
This tablescape combines rustic Italian charm with fresh, vibrant details celebrating tomato season. Bright florals and ripe tomatoes add natural pops of color, while repurposed tomato sauce cans serve as charming vases and breadstick holders. Soft linen tablecloth and napkins provide an elegant backdrop, complemented by classic wine glasses and bottles of Frank Family Zinfandel. Freshly baked bread completes the inviting, effortlessly stylish setting.
Freshly Picked Playlist
Start by setting the table early so you can welcome guests with a glass of Zinfandel in hand. Add interactive touches like a DIY bruschetta bar or self-serve wine station to keep things casual and fun. Layer linens, wood, and fresh tomatoes for a rustic, seasonal look, and use soft lighting to set the mood. A great playlist and a relaxed host make all the difference.
Set the mood with our curated playlist!
Raise your Glass
Every great dinner party begins with a great wine, and Frank Family’s Napa Valley Zinfandel sets the tone with bold fruit, soft spice, and smooth, approachable structure. Its versatility makes it a natural pairing for tomato-driven dishes, grilled meats, and fresh bread—adding richness and warmth to any summer gathering.
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