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Carhartt Family Wines

Bison Burger with Thyme Aioli | 2022 CFW Estate Cabernet Franc Pairing

This straightforward bison burger honors the natural character of the meat while highlighting the herbal and mineral qualities that make it a natural partner for our 2022 CFW Estate Cabernet Franc. Lean, flavorful, and thoughtfully balanced, it’s a pairing built on restraint and intention.

Yield: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
 | 
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Brugers

  • 1½ lbs ground bison
  • Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 sturdy buns (brioche or rustic rolls)

Thyme Aioli

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Sea salt to taste

Onions

  • 1 large red onion, sliced into thick rounds
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper

Optional Additions

  • Arugula
  • Sharp white cheddar
  • Grilled tomato

Instructions

  1. Prepare the thyme aioli
     In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon, garlic, thyme, and lemon juice. Season lightly with salt and stir until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to settle and harmonize.
  2. Char the onions
     Toss the onion slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat or sear in a heavy skillet until softened and well marked with char on both sides. Set aside.
  3. Form the patties
     Divide the bison into four equal portions and shape gently into patties. Season both sides with salt and cracked black pepper.
  4. Cook the burgers
     Heat a grill or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Cook the patties for 3–4 minutes per side, just until done. Bison is lean and best served moist, so avoid overcooking.
  5. Toast the buns
     Lightly toast the buns until warm and golden.
  6. Assemble
     Spread the thyme aioli on the buns. Add the bison patty and charred red onion. Finish with any chosen accompaniments and serve at once.

Pairing note:
 The natural iron note of bison reflects the wine’s mineral character, while thyme and black pepper align with its herbal spice and tea-like finish.