Thursday, November 10, 2016
Cheval in France has a winery in Mendoza, Argentina. Cheval being a big name we decided to enjoy this dinner at Chianina. Sat at the table with the winemaker, Lorenzo Pasquini. Yes an Italian making French wines.
Started out with a NV Ruinart Blanc de Blanc sparkling. After several glasses of this wine we were served the "Stuzzichino" poached scallops with caviar, potato and sea urchin (uni) . Sopped up the sauce with the bread. It was that good.
The wines served with the balance of the dinner were 2006, 2011 and 2012 Bordeaux blends. Different percentages of grapes in each. The 2006 had 60% Malbec, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot. The 2011 had 70% Malbec, 22% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot. The 2012 had 66% Malbec, 26% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Petite Verdot.
First course was "Fall Chicories", Prosciutto, pear and black trumpet mushrooms with some greens. The 2012 blend was paired.
Second course was Sweetbreads Cappelletti, truffle puree, root vegetables and broth. 2011 blend was this choice.
Third course served was Roasted Liberty Farm Duck, red cabbage, shitake mushrooms and taleggio cheese. 2006 blend was the wine.
Fourth course was Grilled Chianina Rib Eye, swiss chard, fingerling potatoes, bone marrow and braised short rib. We were told to keep a little of the three previous wines to try with the main dish and compare.
It was an interesting comparison. Wines were all good and food was excellent.
Dessert was a Brown Butter Cake, raspberry, caramel and walnuts. Very good and served with a Moscati di' Asti. Not made by Cheval but Chianina added it to the dinner.
Excellent food and wines, great dining companions. Wine rep was personable. Added a lot to the dinner. Very knowledgeable. Apparently the Bottle Shoppe in Naples carries these wines. A rep from there was at the table also. A very enjoyable evening.
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