Saturday, August 29, 2015
These dinners featuring German wines have been an event for a lot of years at Delius. www.deliusrestaurant.com. Allie the wine rep from Rudy Weist Imports was there again. Looking quite summery in her bright orange dress, Showed off her surfers body. Allie surfs almost everyday. Her cousin was with her tonight. He just moved to California from Chicago by way of Florida. Brandon said he thought he could get used to dinners like this really fast. He was a lot of fun. Also shared the table with Ray & Barbara so we had a very lively evening.
We started out the a glass of 2009 Raumland Cuvee Marie-Luise Brut Blanc de Noir. Mineraly, crisp, green apple, black cherry and a touch of nectarine. Good enough that I bought the 2 bottles that were left.
First course: Crab, Avocado and Golden Beet Napolean with frisee, grilled serrano vinaigrette and toasted almonds. Exceptionally good, just the right amount of bite to it and a beautiful looking dish.
Paired with a 2013 Gunderloch Jean Baptiste Riesling Kabinett. A very good pairing. The Riesling had a touch of petrol on the nose, good acidity and a bit on the dry side. I also had some of the Sket with this dish and it was a winner also.
Second course: Crispy Skin Loup de Mer, basil broth, fennel, baby heirloom tomatoes and lemon oil. Another winner. The broth was very good, full of flavor. The fennel was not strong. Fish was cooked perfectly. Paired with a 2013 Wagner-Stempel Pinot Blanc Dry, Siefersheim. A decent pairing but the Rielsing and Sket we just had went better with this dish. It is nice to save some wine and hold it over to the next course to compare.
Third course: Caramelized Spaetzle, Duck Confit, grilled king oyster mushrooms, brown butter, garlic chips. To me this was by far the best dish of the evening. Loaded with flavors, rich, decadent. So glad the portion was not huge. This dish was exceptionally good. Wine was a 1994 Schloss Schonborn Riesling Auslese, Hattenheimer Pfaffenberg. The wine had a touch of petrol on the nose not quite as much as the other Riesling we had. But the color was beautiful, had good viscosity and mouth fell, well balanced and rich enough to stand up to the duck. A perfect pairing.
Fourth course: Grilled Hangar Steak, red wine reduction, farm risotto, roasted carrot puree, cipollini onions, fried carrot garnish. Normally by this time in the dinner I will take a bite or two and have them box up the rest to take home. But one bite led to another and so on. Before long the plate was clean. The carrot puree really set this dish apart and the risotto was perfect, Another excellent dish from the kitchen. A 2012 Schnaitmann Lemberger 2 Star was the wine selected for this dish. A good pairing. German red wines are usually on the lighter side and are made to go with food and this one was perfect for the dish.
Dessert was a Black Forest Cheesecake. Light and a nice ending to a rich meal. The cake was served on a rectangular plate and Delius's logo (the 3 glasses) was stenciled onto the plate with powdered cocoa. I thought that this was a cool touch and hope they do this more often.
Another dinner at Delius that was exceptionally good. I even ate the damm frisee that was with the Napoleon. Granted it was small but it still was frisee.
Sunday, August 30, 2015
Friday, August 28, 2015
Dinner at Bistro Bleu
Thursday, August 27, 2015
Terry and I liked this restaurant so much we decided to come back. www.bistrobleudining.com . We were here a couple of weeks ago with Margie's dinner group. The menu had a lot of interesting items on it and several of them were high on my list to try.
I opted for the roasted beet salad to start with which was very good. Almost went for the Lobster Bisque but will try that next week when I come back with Marc.
Terry and I both had the Rabbit (Lapin) It had a mustard sauce that was so good. I had a front leg, back leg and part of the saddle. Took some home. Could have eaten the whole thing if it was not for the salad at the beginning. Served with mixed vegetables, again under cooked. I don't like soft but I do want my vegetables a bit more than raw. So many places seem to be on this kick of serving vegetables that seemed to have been only blanched. The menu listed linguine as the starch. I had my dinner that way but Terry opted to substitute mashed potatoes with his. That is what I would do when I order the rabbit again.
The baguette was warm, freshly baked and light. Two baskets of the bread were devoured.
Since there was just two of us there were only two wines. Terry brought a 2005 Krupp Bros., Veraison, Stagecoach Vineyards and I brought a 2005 Chateau de Ferrand, St. Emilion, Grand Cru. Both wines were showing well. Both well balanced, good mouthfeel and loads of complexity.
A nice evening with good conversation. Amazing what you talk about when there is just two of you.
Terry and I liked this restaurant so much we decided to come back. www.bistrobleudining.com . We were here a couple of weeks ago with Margie's dinner group. The menu had a lot of interesting items on it and several of them were high on my list to try.
I opted for the roasted beet salad to start with which was very good. Almost went for the Lobster Bisque but will try that next week when I come back with Marc.
Terry and I both had the Rabbit (Lapin) It had a mustard sauce that was so good. I had a front leg, back leg and part of the saddle. Took some home. Could have eaten the whole thing if it was not for the salad at the beginning. Served with mixed vegetables, again under cooked. I don't like soft but I do want my vegetables a bit more than raw. So many places seem to be on this kick of serving vegetables that seemed to have been only blanched. The menu listed linguine as the starch. I had my dinner that way but Terry opted to substitute mashed potatoes with his. That is what I would do when I order the rabbit again.
The baguette was warm, freshly baked and light. Two baskets of the bread were devoured.
Since there was just two of us there were only two wines. Terry brought a 2005 Krupp Bros., Veraison, Stagecoach Vineyards and I brought a 2005 Chateau de Ferrand, St. Emilion, Grand Cru. Both wines were showing well. Both well balanced, good mouthfeel and loads of complexity.
A nice evening with good conversation. Amazing what you talk about when there is just two of you.
Rose Tasting At Delius
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
This turned out to be a really nice tasting for summertime. Rose's are refreshing and light. When I do these commuter tastings I normally leave about 7:00 but tonight I was having such a good time with good conversation it was 9:30 before we left the restaurant.
6 wines were poured and a multitude of appetizers were passed around. 4 appetizers came out within 20 minutes then there was a big lull before they showed up again. Seemed the kitchen got really busy and they were having a hard time taking care of everything. When they started passing the goodies again most of the people had left. But the food did not go to waste. We really chowed down. Event was over at 8:00. Dave, the owner sat down with us and we finished off the leftover open bottles.
Two of the Rose's I have in my cellar. The 2014 Liquid Farms and the 2014 Tercero Mouvedre Rose. They will be gone by the end of the summer. Bought a case of the Tercero but it is really good.
Other Rose's poured tonight were 2014 Y.Rousseau Rose of Tannat, 2014 Domaine St. Antoine, 2014 Broc Bellars "Love" and 2014 Ledge Vineyards "Los Topos". There was something for everyone in this combination.
This turned out to be a really nice tasting for summertime. Rose's are refreshing and light. When I do these commuter tastings I normally leave about 7:00 but tonight I was having such a good time with good conversation it was 9:30 before we left the restaurant.
6 wines were poured and a multitude of appetizers were passed around. 4 appetizers came out within 20 minutes then there was a big lull before they showed up again. Seemed the kitchen got really busy and they were having a hard time taking care of everything. When they started passing the goodies again most of the people had left. But the food did not go to waste. We really chowed down. Event was over at 8:00. Dave, the owner sat down with us and we finished off the leftover open bottles.
Two of the Rose's I have in my cellar. The 2014 Liquid Farms and the 2014 Tercero Mouvedre Rose. They will be gone by the end of the summer. Bought a case of the Tercero but it is really good.
Other Rose's poured tonight were 2014 Y.Rousseau Rose of Tannat, 2014 Domaine St. Antoine, 2014 Broc Bellars "Love" and 2014 Ledge Vineyards "Los Topos". There was something for everyone in this combination.
Monday, August 24, 2015
Boat House in Long Beach
Sunday, August 23, 2015
My grandaughter's 23rd birthday so off to the Boathouse Restaurant at the marina in Long Beach.
www.boathouseonthebay.com. Nice view but then you are paying for it.
Had a sushi roll for an appetizer which was good. My son ordered 6 oysters, I was not impressed with the size or presentation. My son ordered the house salad and his lady friend ordered the organic salad and they looked just alike. There were clams and linguine ordered. Small portion, ok on taste. the Chilean Sea Bass was good but the vegetables on the plate were way undercooked. Seems to be the trend lately.
I had a half bottle of Schramsberg Champagne and there were two Pear Martini's ordered along with a "Roy Rogers" drink for the 6 year old rug rat that is 4'5" tall already. Everyone else had water.
So along with the drinks, there were 2 plates of Sea Bass, one linguine and clams, 2 sushi rolls, an appetizer plate, 6 oysters, baked potato and mac and cheese for the kid.
$291. Not impressed to go back except for happy hour maybe.
My grandaughter's 23rd birthday so off to the Boathouse Restaurant at the marina in Long Beach.
www.boathouseonthebay.com. Nice view but then you are paying for it.
Had a sushi roll for an appetizer which was good. My son ordered 6 oysters, I was not impressed with the size or presentation. My son ordered the house salad and his lady friend ordered the organic salad and they looked just alike. There were clams and linguine ordered. Small portion, ok on taste. the Chilean Sea Bass was good but the vegetables on the plate were way undercooked. Seems to be the trend lately.
I had a half bottle of Schramsberg Champagne and there were two Pear Martini's ordered along with a "Roy Rogers" drink for the 6 year old rug rat that is 4'5" tall already. Everyone else had water.
So along with the drinks, there were 2 plates of Sea Bass, one linguine and clams, 2 sushi rolls, an appetizer plate, 6 oysters, baked potato and mac and cheese for the kid.
$291. Not impressed to go back except for happy hour maybe.
Bistro St. Germain
Thursday, August 20, 2015
I missed Susan's birthday bash on Tuesday so we met at Bistro St. Germain in Seal Beach for happy hour. www.bistrostgermain.com. Before 6:00 tapas are half price an discounts on beer and the chalkboard wine list. Lucky to arrive at the same time and we both got parking spots right in front. A good omen. Walked in and the place is packed. So Susan goes to the bar and talks with Armand who miraculously finds us a table. Susan sells wine to the restaurant and that probably helped.
Ordered a variety, shrimp scampi, bruschetta. vegetable risotto, sauteed mushrooms. baked green mussels. All good. And we were stuffed. A real bargain.
I had a couple of glasses of a Brut Rose and Susan opted for a beer. When you taste wine all day that is not what you want for dinner. Place was busy all evening. Large, local crowd.
It is interesting walking down Main St., to see which bar/restaurants are busy and which ones are not. I sometimes wonder how some of these places stay in business.
I missed Susan's birthday bash on Tuesday so we met at Bistro St. Germain in Seal Beach for happy hour. www.bistrostgermain.com. Before 6:00 tapas are half price an discounts on beer and the chalkboard wine list. Lucky to arrive at the same time and we both got parking spots right in front. A good omen. Walked in and the place is packed. So Susan goes to the bar and talks with Armand who miraculously finds us a table. Susan sells wine to the restaurant and that probably helped.
Ordered a variety, shrimp scampi, bruschetta. vegetable risotto, sauteed mushrooms. baked green mussels. All good. And we were stuffed. A real bargain.
I had a couple of glasses of a Brut Rose and Susan opted for a beer. When you taste wine all day that is not what you want for dinner. Place was busy all evening. Large, local crowd.
It is interesting walking down Main St., to see which bar/restaurants are busy and which ones are not. I sometimes wonder how some of these places stay in business.
Wine & Fire 2015 - On The Way Home
Monday, August 17, 2015
Had another breakfast at the hotel and loaded the car for the trip back. Can't get into Central Kitchen until 10:00 to pick up the cheese. at 10 o'clock we got into Cindy's car and it will not start. She has some king of keyless system and apparently did not turn everything off when we loaded up. But that was only 30 minutes ago. Asked her when she had a new battery installed and found out it was still the original battery. 45 minutes later triple A shows up. they run the diagnostic and sure enough her battery is on its way out. They do get us started and followed us to the gas station where we needed to fill up. We were concerned about the car not starting again. Filled up and the car turned over. Waved goodbye to the tow driver and headed to Central Kitchen. Left the car running when we went into the store, picked up the cheese and headed down the road.
Traffic on the way back in the LA area,. Got to Cindy's after 3:00. Long day. But a great time. Especially nice when someone else drives. I paid for the gas but it is so worth it to be a passenger.
Maybe I will do this again next year.
Had another breakfast at the hotel and loaded the car for the trip back. Can't get into Central Kitchen until 10:00 to pick up the cheese. at 10 o'clock we got into Cindy's car and it will not start. She has some king of keyless system and apparently did not turn everything off when we loaded up. But that was only 30 minutes ago. Asked her when she had a new battery installed and found out it was still the original battery. 45 minutes later triple A shows up. they run the diagnostic and sure enough her battery is on its way out. They do get us started and followed us to the gas station where we needed to fill up. We were concerned about the car not starting again. Filled up and the car turned over. Waved goodbye to the tow driver and headed to Central Kitchen. Left the car running when we went into the store, picked up the cheese and headed down the road.
Traffic on the way back in the LA area,. Got to Cindy's after 3:00. Long day. But a great time. Especially nice when someone else drives. I paid for the gas but it is so worth it to be a passenger.
Maybe I will do this again next year.
Wine & Fire 2015 - Last Day
Sunday, August 16, 2015
I was told at the Clos Pepe bash that they had some Zwimbto cheese at the Central Kitchen store. We stopped in before heading for dinner to pick it up. Unfortunately the cheese that was left from the Clos had not made it back to the store yet. This cheese was ordered special for Clos Pepe. We were told if we came back in the morning when the opened we could purchase any unopened cheese. If you are in the Lompoc area this place is a must to stop. Great deli, beautiful sandwiches and salads.
So down the street we went to Scratch Kitchen for dinner. New place in town and Lompoc sure needs some good eating establishments. They are starting to realize what they have in the Ghetto and the potential for wino's to stay in the area instead of Santa Ynez and Solvang. They did to work on it some more they are headed in the right direction.
Scratch Kitchen is on H street close to the main part of town. Simple, noisy but the food is good. They have a full bar , good wine list and if you bring in a local wine there is no corkage. I was so wined out by time dinner was upon us I ordered a beer. We ordered a couple of starters. Ahi with avocado and a beet salad. Both were excellent. I ordered the tuna filet, fresh that day, caught that morning. Sat on a piece of grilled watermelon and had a compote of cantaloupe and cucumber on top. Excellent flavors. Cindy had the grilled lamb chops and they were cooked perfectly. We were happy campers. service was good. The restaurant itself was noisy. They were busy but the acoustics are minimal. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. I would definitely go back.
I was told at the Clos Pepe bash that they had some Zwimbto cheese at the Central Kitchen store. We stopped in before heading for dinner to pick it up. Unfortunately the cheese that was left from the Clos had not made it back to the store yet. This cheese was ordered special for Clos Pepe. We were told if we came back in the morning when the opened we could purchase any unopened cheese. If you are in the Lompoc area this place is a must to stop. Great deli, beautiful sandwiches and salads.
So down the street we went to Scratch Kitchen for dinner. New place in town and Lompoc sure needs some good eating establishments. They are starting to realize what they have in the Ghetto and the potential for wino's to stay in the area instead of Santa Ynez and Solvang. They did to work on it some more they are headed in the right direction.
Scratch Kitchen is on H street close to the main part of town. Simple, noisy but the food is good. They have a full bar , good wine list and if you bring in a local wine there is no corkage. I was so wined out by time dinner was upon us I ordered a beer. We ordered a couple of starters. Ahi with avocado and a beet salad. Both were excellent. I ordered the tuna filet, fresh that day, caught that morning. Sat on a piece of grilled watermelon and had a compote of cantaloupe and cucumber on top. Excellent flavors. Cindy had the grilled lamb chops and they were cooked perfectly. We were happy campers. service was good. The restaurant itself was noisy. They were busy but the acoustics are minimal. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. I would definitely go back.
Wine & Fire 2015 and Clos Pepe's Farewell Soiree
Sunday, August 16, 2015
After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, Cindy and headed down 246 toward Clos Pepe. Andrew had told me to come early because of the crowds. Gave me a chance to talk with Wes before the groupies and hangeroners hit. Very bittersweet day. 2014 is the last label of Clos Pepe for at least 15 years. Vineyard has been leased and Wes is headed to J. Wilkes for new adventures.
We hit the library table early and and tasted some outstanding old vintages of Clos Pepe. The last that exist. Said my goodbyes to Chanda and Peregrine, her service dog.
The charcuterie that was put out today was unbelievable. They went all out. Central Coast Specialty Kitchens in Lompoc was in charge. There was a real runny, soft cheese I had never heard of on the table. Zwimbto from Portugal. Just fell in love with this cheese. Must get some.
Had a long conversation with Cathy Pepe. Wished her well in her retirement. She and Steve plan on traveling a lot. Last big affair at the house. Have wonderful memories of all the open houses and especially the private dinners that I attended. Cathy did say Andrew was planning on doing a few events and I asked to be the first one notified. Andrew will stay on with Clos Pepe until all the wines that are in storage are gone. Then he will follow Wes to J. Wilkes.
Starting to get very crowded so we make our departure. Waved goodbye to Wes and he shouted out "I love you". LOL: He should with the money I spend every year at the Clos. Plan on seeing him a J.Wilkes in November when I head up to Avila.
Went across the highway and visited at Huber Cellars. Norm and Traudl are so sweet and nice. Bought a couple bottles of Hafen, a Dornfelder Port. The Hubers are slowly retiring also and selling most of their grapes off. Norm will continue to make a smaller amount of wine every year. Cindy bought several jars of Jalapeno jam that Traudl makes. All proceeds go the the animal rescue fund.
Stopped at Kessler-Hawk, Longoria and Montemar. At Monetmar ran into a couple that was familiar with FAWG, a wine group in the South Bay that I have to some of their functions. How small the world is when you start conversations with strangers. Saw Steve Arrowood, owner of Montemar. Had not seen him for a few years. Nice conversation. Will make a point of stopping back in next time I am in the area.
After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, Cindy and headed down 246 toward Clos Pepe. Andrew had told me to come early because of the crowds. Gave me a chance to talk with Wes before the groupies and hangeroners hit. Very bittersweet day. 2014 is the last label of Clos Pepe for at least 15 years. Vineyard has been leased and Wes is headed to J. Wilkes for new adventures.
We hit the library table early and and tasted some outstanding old vintages of Clos Pepe. The last that exist. Said my goodbyes to Chanda and Peregrine, her service dog.
The charcuterie that was put out today was unbelievable. They went all out. Central Coast Specialty Kitchens in Lompoc was in charge. There was a real runny, soft cheese I had never heard of on the table. Zwimbto from Portugal. Just fell in love with this cheese. Must get some.
Had a long conversation with Cathy Pepe. Wished her well in her retirement. She and Steve plan on traveling a lot. Last big affair at the house. Have wonderful memories of all the open houses and especially the private dinners that I attended. Cathy did say Andrew was planning on doing a few events and I asked to be the first one notified. Andrew will stay on with Clos Pepe until all the wines that are in storage are gone. Then he will follow Wes to J. Wilkes.
Starting to get very crowded so we make our departure. Waved goodbye to Wes and he shouted out "I love you". LOL: He should with the money I spend every year at the Clos. Plan on seeing him a J.Wilkes in November when I head up to Avila.
Went across the highway and visited at Huber Cellars. Norm and Traudl are so sweet and nice. Bought a couple bottles of Hafen, a Dornfelder Port. The Hubers are slowly retiring also and selling most of their grapes off. Norm will continue to make a smaller amount of wine every year. Cindy bought several jars of Jalapeno jam that Traudl makes. All proceeds go the the animal rescue fund.
Stopped at Kessler-Hawk, Longoria and Montemar. At Monetmar ran into a couple that was familiar with FAWG, a wine group in the South Bay that I have to some of their functions. How small the world is when you start conversations with strangers. Saw Steve Arrowood, owner of Montemar. Had not seen him for a few years. Nice conversation. Will make a point of stopping back in next time I am in the area.
Saturday, August 22, 2015
Wine & Fire 2015 - Saturday Evening
Saturday, August 15, 2015
Could not get checked in immediately at the hotel so naturally just had to go to the Ghetto for some tasting. Hit Moretti and LaMontagne for about an hour then back to the hotel. Cleaned up and headed to the mission for the big event. The grounds are beautiful and the weather was perfect. Seems not as many people as last year which was fine with me.
Ran into 7 people I knew and had not seen since Orv's funeral in 2008. Every time I come here I run into people I know from the LA/OC area. We all know a great tasting.
42 wineries pouring here tonight and the BBQ guys are here also. Lots of food and lots of wine and good music.
Forgot all about the silent auction again. Which is probably best for me - saves me a lot of money.
I think I did more socializing tonight than drinking. But since I started drinking at 11:00 this morning that was probably best also. Great evening.
Could not get checked in immediately at the hotel so naturally just had to go to the Ghetto for some tasting. Hit Moretti and LaMontagne for about an hour then back to the hotel. Cleaned up and headed to the mission for the big event. The grounds are beautiful and the weather was perfect. Seems not as many people as last year which was fine with me.
Ran into 7 people I knew and had not seen since Orv's funeral in 2008. Every time I come here I run into people I know from the LA/OC area. We all know a great tasting.
42 wineries pouring here tonight and the BBQ guys are here also. Lots of food and lots of wine and good music.
Forgot all about the silent auction again. Which is probably best for me - saves me a lot of money.
I think I did more socializing tonight than drinking. But since I started drinking at 11:00 this morning that was probably best also. Great evening.
Wine & Fire 2015 - Saturday Morning
Saturday, August 15, 2015
Took off early to make Buellton by 9:30. First event today is at 10:30. Had some slow down before we got out of the LA area but then it was smooth sailing. Arrived in Buellton at 9:00 and headed over to Ellens for breakfast. Our rational was eat now because we probably won't start eating at the BBQ until close to noon as there were seminars scheduled. About 10:00 we headed over to the old Sanford Barn on Santa Rosa Road for the BBQ. Scored a table with lots of umbrellas around it. Loring and Siduri wines were being poured in the bar. Adam Lee from Siduri and Brian Loring were the hosts. On the tables was a bottle of Kessler Hawk Rose. Nice big format glasses available and we got to take them home with us.
They started talking with each of the "grill masters" about their style and technique of grilling which took about 20 minutes and then the food and wine began. Cindy and I were both full from breakfast. But we seemed to find room for a few more bites. At least you could go slowly as the event did not end until 1:30.
The Argentian BBQ was my favorite. The did lamb and pig. The rub on the pigskin was to die for. Tender and juicy meat. The lamb also was very succulent. The wines on this table were from Clos Pepe, Ken Brown and Liquid Farm.
Steve Clifton from Brewer Clifton was there with his portable wood fire pizza oven. Huge contraption. But he was pouring Palmina, Brewer-Clifton, Fiddlehead and I think a couple of others.
Hitching Post was grilling beef and Frank Ostini was there. Known for their restaurant and BBQ. They were pouring some of their older vintages and Rick Longoria was there also. Rick was pouring an older vintage of the original Sanford and Benedict Pinot Noir.
Tollhouse BBQ had their big smoker with them. Interesting to try the different methods of BBQ. Ribs at this table. Wines were Zotovich and Transcendence.
K-H BBQ was grilling bacon wrapped shrimp. Big shrimp and succulent. Kessler-Hawk and LaMontagne wines were at this table.
Lastly we had Peter Cargasacchi making his world renowned beef sliders. Huge sandwiches, loads of beef and coleslaw. Everyone was raving about them. Should not have had that big breakfast at Ellens. Cargasacchi, Loring and Siduri wines were being poured.
Good event, lots of great food, great wines. Venue was good. Beautiful day overlooking the original Sanford and Benedict vineyard. Nice people at our table. Talked with a lawyer that represents the Food Network. Found out only 5 of the "chefs" that have shows are really well paid. The others are not even close to these people's salaries. I could figure out 4 of them, still trying to figure out the last one. It will pop into my head someday when I least expect it. A sunny 95 degrees here. So glad for the shade.
My only negative was I felt the "seminars" should have been longer and more concise. I would have likes to find out more on the techniques. And a lot of others felt this way also.
Took off early to make Buellton by 9:30. First event today is at 10:30. Had some slow down before we got out of the LA area but then it was smooth sailing. Arrived in Buellton at 9:00 and headed over to Ellens for breakfast. Our rational was eat now because we probably won't start eating at the BBQ until close to noon as there were seminars scheduled. About 10:00 we headed over to the old Sanford Barn on Santa Rosa Road for the BBQ. Scored a table with lots of umbrellas around it. Loring and Siduri wines were being poured in the bar. Adam Lee from Siduri and Brian Loring were the hosts. On the tables was a bottle of Kessler Hawk Rose. Nice big format glasses available and we got to take them home with us.
They started talking with each of the "grill masters" about their style and technique of grilling which took about 20 minutes and then the food and wine began. Cindy and I were both full from breakfast. But we seemed to find room for a few more bites. At least you could go slowly as the event did not end until 1:30.
The Argentian BBQ was my favorite. The did lamb and pig. The rub on the pigskin was to die for. Tender and juicy meat. The lamb also was very succulent. The wines on this table were from Clos Pepe, Ken Brown and Liquid Farm.
Steve Clifton from Brewer Clifton was there with his portable wood fire pizza oven. Huge contraption. But he was pouring Palmina, Brewer-Clifton, Fiddlehead and I think a couple of others.
Hitching Post was grilling beef and Frank Ostini was there. Known for their restaurant and BBQ. They were pouring some of their older vintages and Rick Longoria was there also. Rick was pouring an older vintage of the original Sanford and Benedict Pinot Noir.
Tollhouse BBQ had their big smoker with them. Interesting to try the different methods of BBQ. Ribs at this table. Wines were Zotovich and Transcendence.
K-H BBQ was grilling bacon wrapped shrimp. Big shrimp and succulent. Kessler-Hawk and LaMontagne wines were at this table.
Lastly we had Peter Cargasacchi making his world renowned beef sliders. Huge sandwiches, loads of beef and coleslaw. Everyone was raving about them. Should not have had that big breakfast at Ellens. Cargasacchi, Loring and Siduri wines were being poured.
Good event, lots of great food, great wines. Venue was good. Beautiful day overlooking the original Sanford and Benedict vineyard. Nice people at our table. Talked with a lawyer that represents the Food Network. Found out only 5 of the "chefs" that have shows are really well paid. The others are not even close to these people's salaries. I could figure out 4 of them, still trying to figure out the last one. It will pop into my head someday when I least expect it. A sunny 95 degrees here. So glad for the shade.
My only negative was I felt the "seminars" should have been longer and more concise. I would have likes to find out more on the techniques. And a lot of others felt this way also.
Sunday, August 9, 2015
Bistro Bleu
Saturday, August 8, 2015
For our August "wine activity" Margie found a nice, little French restaurant, Bistro Bleu in Anaheim, www.bistrobleudining.com. . The chef/owner, who used to be with The Cellar in Fullerton, set a Prix Fixe menu for us to choose from. Everything on the menu was picked by someone at the table. So we got good feedback as to quality and flavor.
There were 12 of us tonight and at Margie's request we all brought French wine except one person who brought a Bordeaux blend from Temecula.. 15 wines on the table.
The choices for starters were a duck liver pate, onion soup and beet salad. Portions were good size. No complaints from anyone of these selections.
Entree selection was steak with peppercorn cream sauce, Coq au Vin and duck breast with orange sauce. The steak people said their steaks were good and cooked correctly. Coq au Vin got good reviews. The duck breast was good, people seemed to like it except for the overly sweet orange sauce. I had ordered the duck breast and was expecting to get a duck breast with a crispy skin. This was sliced. Good flavor but I wish they would have added the word "sliced" to the description. I also like my duck just a bit more rare than what was served. But that is my personal preference.
Dessert was a choice of Dark Belgium Chocolate Mocha Parfait with fresh berries or a Creme Brulee. I opted for the creme brulee which was very good. But after seeing the parfait I wished I had ordered that. I wanted something light after the meal and from the description I thought the creme brulee would be the lightest. But that parfait looked very light and decadent.
I was happy with this small restaurant, so much so that Terry and I are planning on going back within the next two weeks and order the rabbit and probably the Lobster Bisque. He and I have some high end French wines and this will be a good opportunity to open them
Most of the wines were good tonight. Both Champagnes, a Montaudon Brut and a De Margeuie A Bouzy, Grand Cru were hits. A 2000 Reignac, Bordeaux was excellent and it was compared to the 2005 Reginac which was good but not the caliber of the 2000. I brought a 2008 Domaine de Montille, 1st Cru, Les Sizes, Beaune, Burgundy. It was drinking very well. Well balanced, soft mouth feel. One of the first bottles to be emptied. I also had brought a half bottle of Sauterne which went well with creme brulee.
So another sucessful dinner for Margie. This place is a keeper.
For our August "wine activity" Margie found a nice, little French restaurant, Bistro Bleu in Anaheim, www.bistrobleudining.com. . The chef/owner, who used to be with The Cellar in Fullerton, set a Prix Fixe menu for us to choose from. Everything on the menu was picked by someone at the table. So we got good feedback as to quality and flavor.
There were 12 of us tonight and at Margie's request we all brought French wine except one person who brought a Bordeaux blend from Temecula.. 15 wines on the table.
The choices for starters were a duck liver pate, onion soup and beet salad. Portions were good size. No complaints from anyone of these selections.
Entree selection was steak with peppercorn cream sauce, Coq au Vin and duck breast with orange sauce. The steak people said their steaks were good and cooked correctly. Coq au Vin got good reviews. The duck breast was good, people seemed to like it except for the overly sweet orange sauce. I had ordered the duck breast and was expecting to get a duck breast with a crispy skin. This was sliced. Good flavor but I wish they would have added the word "sliced" to the description. I also like my duck just a bit more rare than what was served. But that is my personal preference.
Dessert was a choice of Dark Belgium Chocolate Mocha Parfait with fresh berries or a Creme Brulee. I opted for the creme brulee which was very good. But after seeing the parfait I wished I had ordered that. I wanted something light after the meal and from the description I thought the creme brulee would be the lightest. But that parfait looked very light and decadent.
I was happy with this small restaurant, so much so that Terry and I are planning on going back within the next two weeks and order the rabbit and probably the Lobster Bisque. He and I have some high end French wines and this will be a good opportunity to open them
Most of the wines were good tonight. Both Champagnes, a Montaudon Brut and a De Margeuie A Bouzy, Grand Cru were hits. A 2000 Reignac, Bordeaux was excellent and it was compared to the 2005 Reginac which was good but not the caliber of the 2000. I brought a 2008 Domaine de Montille, 1st Cru, Les Sizes, Beaune, Burgundy. It was drinking very well. Well balanced, soft mouth feel. One of the first bottles to be emptied. I also had brought a half bottle of Sauterne which went well with creme brulee.
So another sucessful dinner for Margie. This place is a keeper.
Tuesday, August 4, 2015
Dim Sum and a Birthday Celebration
Monday, August 3, 2015
Lunch with the boys today at Seafood Palace and found out it was Henry's Birthday. Just another good reason to celebrate.
Some of the old standards were ordered like the seaweed wrapped shrimp, sour and spicy soup, salt and pepper Calamri and the steamed shrimp dumplings. But we also had a new dish. Scallops sauteed with the Chef's Special sauce. This always means whatever is leftover and they can mix up and use. Never the same taste but always good
We also had beef with egg noodles and baby bok choy along with fried pork chops . Egg custard tarts for dessert.
Ww had 4 bottles of excellent wine. A 2014 Friedrick Beeker, Pflaz, Petit Rose, a very good rose. I brought a NV Charles Heidsieck Reserve, Brut Blue Label, Champagne. Even Henry liked this one. 2010 Chateau Hanteillan, Haul Medoc, Catherine Blasco red blend and a 20008 Chateau Les Grands, Marechaux Blaye, Cotes De Bordeaux. Beautiful wine.
Three hours well spent eating, drinking and having good conversation with great friends.
Lunch with the boys today at Seafood Palace and found out it was Henry's Birthday. Just another good reason to celebrate.
Some of the old standards were ordered like the seaweed wrapped shrimp, sour and spicy soup, salt and pepper Calamri and the steamed shrimp dumplings. But we also had a new dish. Scallops sauteed with the Chef's Special sauce. This always means whatever is leftover and they can mix up and use. Never the same taste but always good
We also had beef with egg noodles and baby bok choy along with fried pork chops . Egg custard tarts for dessert.
Ww had 4 bottles of excellent wine. A 2014 Friedrick Beeker, Pflaz, Petit Rose, a very good rose. I brought a NV Charles Heidsieck Reserve, Brut Blue Label, Champagne. Even Henry liked this one. 2010 Chateau Hanteillan, Haul Medoc, Catherine Blasco red blend and a 20008 Chateau Les Grands, Marechaux Blaye, Cotes De Bordeaux. Beautiful wine.
Three hours well spent eating, drinking and having good conversation with great friends.
August's Meeting of The Wino's
August 2, 2015
Our monthly gathering - smaller group today, lot of people out of town. But the numbers worked perfectly. Everyone had a place to sit. Weather was warm and Doug's place does not have a lot of ventilation in the U shaped patio area. A bit better today than in the past but the whites were not cold enough and the reds just a tad warm.
The host cooked up salmon, brisket and pulled pork. I managed to find a piece of brisket that still had some pink on it. I have a hard time understanding why people like their meats cremated. There is no flavor, dry, hard to chew and swallow and hangs in your throat. But to each their own. People don't understand why I like my meat just this side of dead.
I did taste all the Champagnes and sparklings along with a "Blanc" Chateauneuf-du-Pape. The 2011 Schramsberg Blanc de Noir Brut was very good and I did like the 2012 Clos Pepe Brut Rose sparkling that I brought.
The only red wine I tried was a 1998 Vieux Telegraphe, La Cra, Chateauneuf-du-Pape which was excellent. I just wish the reds had been chilled just a little bit.
Our monthly gathering - smaller group today, lot of people out of town. But the numbers worked perfectly. Everyone had a place to sit. Weather was warm and Doug's place does not have a lot of ventilation in the U shaped patio area. A bit better today than in the past but the whites were not cold enough and the reds just a tad warm.
The host cooked up salmon, brisket and pulled pork. I managed to find a piece of brisket that still had some pink on it. I have a hard time understanding why people like their meats cremated. There is no flavor, dry, hard to chew and swallow and hangs in your throat. But to each their own. People don't understand why I like my meat just this side of dead.
I did taste all the Champagnes and sparklings along with a "Blanc" Chateauneuf-du-Pape. The 2011 Schramsberg Blanc de Noir Brut was very good and I did like the 2012 Clos Pepe Brut Rose sparkling that I brought.
The only red wine I tried was a 1998 Vieux Telegraphe, La Cra, Chateauneuf-du-Pape which was excellent. I just wish the reds had been chilled just a little bit.
Recon at Fuego
July 31, 2015
Drove down Queensway to find Fuego - always an adventure. If you miss the tiny sign you end up at the Queen Mary and have to start all over. If you have been drinking you should just go home. It is like a maze trying to find the place. Fortunately today I had no problem
Met Margie and Paul to do a recon for new dishes that Margie will be selecting for her dinner next month. Don't want to duplicate last years menu. Plus we had an added bonus of a free wine tasting. Fiddle Town that is located in the Sierra Foothill area was pouring 4 of their wines.
Weather was perfect for outdoor dining. Full view of the Queen Mary and Shoreline Village. Enjoyable setting. I brought a 2013 Stolpman Carbonic Sangiovese and Paul opened a Longoria Albarino. Both wines went well with the foods we tried.
Don't know what items Margie will end up with on her dinner menu but I ordered a chicken dish, which I rarely do in restaurants, It was a quarter of chicken grilled sitting on a bed of pureed Poblano chilies with cream fresca blended in. The sauce was so good. I know that is what I will be ordered in September.
Another delightful evening in Southern California by the ocean.
Drove down Queensway to find Fuego - always an adventure. If you miss the tiny sign you end up at the Queen Mary and have to start all over. If you have been drinking you should just go home. It is like a maze trying to find the place. Fortunately today I had no problem
Met Margie and Paul to do a recon for new dishes that Margie will be selecting for her dinner next month. Don't want to duplicate last years menu. Plus we had an added bonus of a free wine tasting. Fiddle Town that is located in the Sierra Foothill area was pouring 4 of their wines.
Weather was perfect for outdoor dining. Full view of the Queen Mary and Shoreline Village. Enjoyable setting. I brought a 2013 Stolpman Carbonic Sangiovese and Paul opened a Longoria Albarino. Both wines went well with the foods we tried.
Don't know what items Margie will end up with on her dinner menu but I ordered a chicken dish, which I rarely do in restaurants, It was a quarter of chicken grilled sitting on a bed of pureed Poblano chilies with cream fresca blended in. The sauce was so good. I know that is what I will be ordered in September.
Another delightful evening in Southern California by the ocean.
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