Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Delius Restaurant hosted a wine tasting this evening. I had never heard of this winery (there are lots of them that I have not heard of). They have been in the Lodi area for over a hundred years. 1,000 acres but with 500 planted in grape vines. 8 wines were tasted. All estate grown. "Peirano.com"
2007 Chardonnay - see's french oak - a clean wine
2007 Viognier - not overly floral
2006 The Other White - Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc & Viognier. You really get the Viognier at the back palate.
2006 Malbec - not your Argentinian Malbec - more European in structure
2006 Melot - 6 clones - for a Merlot a nice wine
2006 Petit Syrah - nice and inky
2004 Barbera - sure beats Orv's Barbera
2007 The Other Red - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah - the Merlot softens the Cab and the Syrah is predominate on the back palate.
I was very surprised at how nice these wines were and at the price point of $14 each that was a bargain. I really liked the "The Other Red" and the Barbera. I bought several bottles of these. They will be showing up for Monday Night Football.
As always the appetizers that were passed were very good. Ceviche in little spoons. Poke on thin chips, Lamb on toasted baguette pieces, some little mushroom doodad, some kind of pork , mushroom soup shooters, a pumpkin souffle thing on top of a cake round and small dishes of the Russian Cream.
I did not take notes so everything is from memory. And after 8 very good pours of wine I don't think I did too bad.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Private Tasting
Friday, September 25, 2009
Went to friends house this evening for a private "higher end" tasting. Since I just got back from vacation this afternoon it slipped my mind completely to take notes on what we would be drinking tonight. (remembered the next day) Everyone was to bring a "higher" end wine. I do remember 2 Cing Cepages, different years, a Saxum Bone Rock Syrah. I brought a Lucia Gary's Vineyard Syrah. 11 wines all together. We used the 1-1/2 ounce pourer's for the first pours and discussed the wine. After that the bottles were lined up on the bar in the house. We had a great dinner (everyone brought a dish). Since we were seated outside I did not get up to get some more wine until midway through eating. By then some of the most popular wines were gone so some of us did not get a second taste.
My take on this is, that the bottles should have been on the table for easy access. I somehow felt a little cheated that I only got a 1-1/2 ounce pour of some wines and others took much, much larger pours. They liked, so they drank it profusely. Yes I know I could have gotten up and gone into the house (while eating) to get more but somehow this is not setting right with me. I guess I'm getting more bitchy in my old age. I also felt that 12 people were to many. 8 should have been the max for this type of tasting.
The idea was great but needed to de defined more.
Went to friends house this evening for a private "higher end" tasting. Since I just got back from vacation this afternoon it slipped my mind completely to take notes on what we would be drinking tonight. (remembered the next day) Everyone was to bring a "higher" end wine. I do remember 2 Cing Cepages, different years, a Saxum Bone Rock Syrah. I brought a Lucia Gary's Vineyard Syrah. 11 wines all together. We used the 1-1/2 ounce pourer's for the first pours and discussed the wine. After that the bottles were lined up on the bar in the house. We had a great dinner (everyone brought a dish). Since we were seated outside I did not get up to get some more wine until midway through eating. By then some of the most popular wines were gone so some of us did not get a second taste.
My take on this is, that the bottles should have been on the table for easy access. I somehow felt a little cheated that I only got a 1-1/2 ounce pour of some wines and others took much, much larger pours. They liked, so they drank it profusely. Yes I know I could have gotten up and gone into the house (while eating) to get more but somehow this is not setting right with me. I guess I'm getting more bitchy in my old age. I also felt that 12 people were to many. 8 should have been the max for this type of tasting.
The idea was great but needed to de defined more.
Vacation Time
Friday, September 11, 2009:
After getting a late start ( had new tires put on the car) I finally got on the road to Paso Robles about 11:45. This got me caught up in heavy traffic from Torrance through Los Angeles and into Camarillo. After that it cleared up.
First pit stop was at Huber Cellars in the Sta Rita Hills area near Lompoc. Traudle had left for a doctor's appointment so Norman and I tasted his new releases and a few old ones. His new 2008 Dornfelder Port was at 21% but was absolutely outstanding. Luckily I had some dark chocolate with me so we had a few sips for port and a few bites of chocolate. I had plan on stopping at a few more places on the way but since I was 2 hours off schedule I said goodbye and continued up the road towards Avila Beach.
Made a quick stop at Trader Joes in Arroyo Grande then on the Avila Beach where I was staying. I had originally planned on checking in and then heading over to the Sycamore for their Friday night wine tasting. The Sycamore was so crowded there were no parking spaces available so back to my accommodations to plan my "attack" on the wineries in Paso Robles on Saturday.
Spent Saturday, Sunday, Monday in Paso Robles. Tuesday doing the Foxen Canyon Trail, Wednesday, The Edna Valley and Thursday (which was really hot) back down to Santa Ynez .
The amount of new wineries is over whelming. I do not see how they are all going to make it. Something is going to have to give. I was told by one of the winemakers that I knew that there were a lot of negotiation's going on and some wineries would be going under soon.
The big highlight of this trip was getting a private tasting at Sinor-LaValle. Tasted 3 Pinots and a Syrah. Mike Sinor was very accommodating. I had not called ahead because I felt with harvest going on it was not the best time. But when I was in the Edna Valley I called him to see what the availability was. He had already harvested and was at the warehouse. Told me to come right on over. I have bought wines from them for several years but had not tasted them yet. I got on their allocation list after reading an article about up and coming winemakers several years ago. Kosta Browne was listed also and I did get on their allocation list at that time. Two winners.
I did go to a few old favorites but kept most of the tasting to new wineries. Austin Hope now has a tasting area in his barrel room. Worth the stop. Among the others that I stopped at were, Caparone, Chateau Margene, Falcon Nest, Four Vines, Kenneth Volk, Lone Madrone, Maloy O"Neill, Pear Valley, Penman Springs, Red Soles, Stanger, Tolosa, Wolff, Zin Alley, Vina Robles, Cambria, River Bench, Rancho Sisquoc, Foxen, Tres Hermanas, Rusak and Stolpman.
I did not hit the wineries as heavy as I have done in the past. I did not seem to have the urge to get there as they opening. Most of the time I waited until 10:30 to leave my accommodations before heading out. I think the time of year had something to do with my attitude. I usually go to Paso Robles late fall. End of October into November. After the harvest and crush and the "madness" is over. Also more people were out and about and it felt more hectic.
Next year ? I'm contemplating on going back to Sonoma. The 9 hour drive is a big detriment. Maybe I will fly and rent a car, then send the wines I buy back through a dealer. I do have a few months to think about it.
After getting a late start ( had new tires put on the car) I finally got on the road to Paso Robles about 11:45. This got me caught up in heavy traffic from Torrance through Los Angeles and into Camarillo. After that it cleared up.
First pit stop was at Huber Cellars in the Sta Rita Hills area near Lompoc. Traudle had left for a doctor's appointment so Norman and I tasted his new releases and a few old ones. His new 2008 Dornfelder Port was at 21% but was absolutely outstanding. Luckily I had some dark chocolate with me so we had a few sips for port and a few bites of chocolate. I had plan on stopping at a few more places on the way but since I was 2 hours off schedule I said goodbye and continued up the road towards Avila Beach.
Made a quick stop at Trader Joes in Arroyo Grande then on the Avila Beach where I was staying. I had originally planned on checking in and then heading over to the Sycamore for their Friday night wine tasting. The Sycamore was so crowded there were no parking spaces available so back to my accommodations to plan my "attack" on the wineries in Paso Robles on Saturday.
Spent Saturday, Sunday, Monday in Paso Robles. Tuesday doing the Foxen Canyon Trail, Wednesday, The Edna Valley and Thursday (which was really hot) back down to Santa Ynez .
The amount of new wineries is over whelming. I do not see how they are all going to make it. Something is going to have to give. I was told by one of the winemakers that I knew that there were a lot of negotiation's going on and some wineries would be going under soon.
The big highlight of this trip was getting a private tasting at Sinor-LaValle. Tasted 3 Pinots and a Syrah. Mike Sinor was very accommodating. I had not called ahead because I felt with harvest going on it was not the best time. But when I was in the Edna Valley I called him to see what the availability was. He had already harvested and was at the warehouse. Told me to come right on over. I have bought wines from them for several years but had not tasted them yet. I got on their allocation list after reading an article about up and coming winemakers several years ago. Kosta Browne was listed also and I did get on their allocation list at that time. Two winners.
I did go to a few old favorites but kept most of the tasting to new wineries. Austin Hope now has a tasting area in his barrel room. Worth the stop. Among the others that I stopped at were, Caparone, Chateau Margene, Falcon Nest, Four Vines, Kenneth Volk, Lone Madrone, Maloy O"Neill, Pear Valley, Penman Springs, Red Soles, Stanger, Tolosa, Wolff, Zin Alley, Vina Robles, Cambria, River Bench, Rancho Sisquoc, Foxen, Tres Hermanas, Rusak and Stolpman.
I did not hit the wineries as heavy as I have done in the past. I did not seem to have the urge to get there as they opening. Most of the time I waited until 10:30 to leave my accommodations before heading out. I think the time of year had something to do with my attitude. I usually go to Paso Robles late fall. End of October into November. After the harvest and crush and the "madness" is over. Also more people were out and about and it felt more hectic.
Next year ? I'm contemplating on going back to Sonoma. The 9 hour drive is a big detriment. Maybe I will fly and rent a car, then send the wines I buy back through a dealer. I do have a few months to think about it.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Jason/Stephens Wine Dinner
Friday, August 28, 2009
Delius Restaurant hosted a wine dinner this evening. I was unfamiliar with the winery being featured but I am always on the look out for something new. Jason/Stephens Winery is located in the Santa Clara area.
There were 5 of us singles seated at the rep's table. There are certain advantages to being single when dining at Delius (or Sage).
I was glad to see bread back on the table instead of those crispy rolls that flaked all over when you tore them apart. Now if I could just get them to bring back the shallot bread instead of the rosemary infused bread I would really be happy.
Appetizer was "Veal Sweetbreads with Braised Celery and Celery Root Puree". This was a very good combination and it was served with a "2007 Dorch Vineyard Chardonnay". Excellent pairing.
Second course was "Pan Roasted Duck Breast with Tomato Goat Cheese Tart". I'm glad they brought back the sliced duck breast instead of a hunk of meat. Better presentation and it seems like the duck is cooked to perfection this way. The Tomato Tart had good flavor but with all bread type pieces it got a little soggy and then became a little tough to eat. Fortunately it was small so if you have a "big" mouth like I am, you can discretely shove it into your mouth in one piece. The wine served with this dish was a "2006 Santa Clara Merlot". The wine was ok but I am not a big Merlot dinker so I may be a little biased. It did pair nicely with the food.
Next up was the best dish of the evening and maybe one of the best I have ever had. "Braised Oxtail Ravioli with Smoked Tomato Broth and Baby Vegetables". The raviloi had plenty of meat and was large. The broth was to die for. It was so good. That smoked flavor was subtle yet right in front of your nose. I was so happy that I could have ended the meal with that dish. It was paired with a "2006 Santa Clara Syrah". Excellent pairing.
Main course was "Hazelnut-Cherry Crusted Lamb Chops with Carmelized Onion-Polenta Cake and Mustard Greens". I had a 4 rib chop. I should have boxed it to go but I was a little piggish tonight and ate everything. The mustard greens were cooked correctly and the polenta cake was perfect. This was served with a "2006 Santa Clara Cabernet Sauvignon". Good pairing. Not a Napa Cab but a very food friendly wine.
All the wines seemed to pair well with the food. Sometimes you are surprised at how well a wine will pair when you think because of the taste you had before food was just ok.
Dessert was a "Lemon Custard Tart with Chambord Ice Cream and Raspberry Gelee". Just the right size to top the meal off.
Delius has a new chef de cuisine and it is very apparent he is making a statement. Between Louise and Daniel the food has really been brought up a few more notches. And I always thought it was excellent before. Delius is my benchmark for comparisons on dinners and food.
Delius Restaurant hosted a wine dinner this evening. I was unfamiliar with the winery being featured but I am always on the look out for something new. Jason/Stephens Winery is located in the Santa Clara area.
There were 5 of us singles seated at the rep's table. There are certain advantages to being single when dining at Delius (or Sage).
I was glad to see bread back on the table instead of those crispy rolls that flaked all over when you tore them apart. Now if I could just get them to bring back the shallot bread instead of the rosemary infused bread I would really be happy.
Appetizer was "Veal Sweetbreads with Braised Celery and Celery Root Puree". This was a very good combination and it was served with a "2007 Dorch Vineyard Chardonnay". Excellent pairing.
Second course was "Pan Roasted Duck Breast with Tomato Goat Cheese Tart". I'm glad they brought back the sliced duck breast instead of a hunk of meat. Better presentation and it seems like the duck is cooked to perfection this way. The Tomato Tart had good flavor but with all bread type pieces it got a little soggy and then became a little tough to eat. Fortunately it was small so if you have a "big" mouth like I am, you can discretely shove it into your mouth in one piece. The wine served with this dish was a "2006 Santa Clara Merlot". The wine was ok but I am not a big Merlot dinker so I may be a little biased. It did pair nicely with the food.
Next up was the best dish of the evening and maybe one of the best I have ever had. "Braised Oxtail Ravioli with Smoked Tomato Broth and Baby Vegetables". The raviloi had plenty of meat and was large. The broth was to die for. It was so good. That smoked flavor was subtle yet right in front of your nose. I was so happy that I could have ended the meal with that dish. It was paired with a "2006 Santa Clara Syrah". Excellent pairing.
Main course was "Hazelnut-Cherry Crusted Lamb Chops with Carmelized Onion-Polenta Cake and Mustard Greens". I had a 4 rib chop. I should have boxed it to go but I was a little piggish tonight and ate everything. The mustard greens were cooked correctly and the polenta cake was perfect. This was served with a "2006 Santa Clara Cabernet Sauvignon". Good pairing. Not a Napa Cab but a very food friendly wine.
All the wines seemed to pair well with the food. Sometimes you are surprised at how well a wine will pair when you think because of the taste you had before food was just ok.
Dessert was a "Lemon Custard Tart with Chambord Ice Cream and Raspberry Gelee". Just the right size to top the meal off.
Delius has a new chef de cuisine and it is very apparent he is making a statement. Between Louise and Daniel the food has really been brought up a few more notches. And I always thought it was excellent before. Delius is my benchmark for comparisons on dinners and food.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
August Gathering of The Flock
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Our monthly gathering of the wino's took place today (Saturday). Normally we have these events on Sunday but for some odd reason some people seem to think that Saturday works best. I disagree as it should be evident by the number of people in attendance. Sunday's group is always larger. People have to many other things going on on a Saturday and since these gatherings are usually started at 2:00 or 3:00 it really take a big bite out of other chores and events that seem to be prevalent on that day.
There were 21 wines on the table. But that reflects the number of outside guests that the host invited. It was more of a open party.
Today's wine theme was Zinfandels and Pinot Noir based Sparkling, Champagnes and Roses. I was really happy to wake up to a very cool and overcast day. Normally I cannot drink these heavy red wines in the heat and since this event is always held outside on a hot day you can be miserable. Today was Zinfandel tasting weather. I concentrated on the Sparklings and Champagnes more but did taste a few Zin's. Unfortunately the table with the wines was very small and in a small corner which made it difficult to get to. People have a tendancy to hang around the wine table. Its part of the game. After I made the list out of what wines that were brought, I saw several I would have liked to try but really did not see them on the table as everything was crammed into a very small area
The wines were good and the appetizers were great. We had fresh strawberries, which were excellent and brownies for dessert. A nice way to end a day.
Next month I will be on vacation at the time of the next "gathering of the flock" and the next "wine and dine" so I will have no comments on those events. But you will hear about my vacation. A lot of wine tasting is on the agenda.
Our monthly gathering of the wino's took place today (Saturday). Normally we have these events on Sunday but for some odd reason some people seem to think that Saturday works best. I disagree as it should be evident by the number of people in attendance. Sunday's group is always larger. People have to many other things going on on a Saturday and since these gatherings are usually started at 2:00 or 3:00 it really take a big bite out of other chores and events that seem to be prevalent on that day.
There were 21 wines on the table. But that reflects the number of outside guests that the host invited. It was more of a open party.
Today's wine theme was Zinfandels and Pinot Noir based Sparkling, Champagnes and Roses. I was really happy to wake up to a very cool and overcast day. Normally I cannot drink these heavy red wines in the heat and since this event is always held outside on a hot day you can be miserable. Today was Zinfandel tasting weather. I concentrated on the Sparklings and Champagnes more but did taste a few Zin's. Unfortunately the table with the wines was very small and in a small corner which made it difficult to get to. People have a tendancy to hang around the wine table. Its part of the game. After I made the list out of what wines that were brought, I saw several I would have liked to try but really did not see them on the table as everything was crammed into a very small area
The wines were good and the appetizers were great. We had fresh strawberries, which were excellent and brownies for dessert. A nice way to end a day.
Next month I will be on vacation at the time of the next "gathering of the flock" and the next "wine and dine" so I will have no comments on those events. But you will hear about my vacation. A lot of wine tasting is on the agenda.
Wine Mixer at Antonello's
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Antonello's Restaurant in Costa Mesa, near South Coast Plaza held a wine mixer this evening. Featured wines were from Nickel & Nickel and Far Nienete. Price was $25 and you got to taste 8 wines along with assorted cheeses, meats , breads , etc. They passed some appetizers around which was a nice touch. The event was held outside the restaurant and the evening was very pleasant. Antonello's was offering a special dinner afterwards for $40 which I did not stay for. It was a nice event and I would attend another.
I was a little disappointed in the wines. As I have had wines from this producer before I was expecting something that did not get delivered. Wines were discounted tonight but at $65 and $75 for Cabernet Sauvignon I felt they fell off the mark.
Antonello's Restaurant in Costa Mesa, near South Coast Plaza held a wine mixer this evening. Featured wines were from Nickel & Nickel and Far Nienete. Price was $25 and you got to taste 8 wines along with assorted cheeses, meats , breads , etc. They passed some appetizers around which was a nice touch. The event was held outside the restaurant and the evening was very pleasant. Antonello's was offering a special dinner afterwards for $40 which I did not stay for. It was a nice event and I would attend another.
I was a little disappointed in the wines. As I have had wines from this producer before I was expecting something that did not get delivered. Wines were discounted tonight but at $65 and $75 for Cabernet Sauvignon I felt they fell off the mark.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
August Wine & Dine
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Tonight 17 of us gathered for the monthly "Wine & Dine" dinner. We have been to Belacan Mayalsian restaurant in Redondo Beach several times and the food is always good. A lot of sparkling wines were brought tonight, mainly because of the spiciness of the food.
We started out with 3 appetizers. Malaysian Curry Puffs (pastry stuffed with potato chicken curry (similar to Indian Samosas), Malaysian chicken wings (deep fried wings with turmeric & curry) and Crab Rangoon (crispy wonton pockets filled with crab salad).
The curry puffs were spicy but went well with the Rieslings. The wings went well with the Zinfandels and the crab wontons were mild enough to go with the sparkling wines.
Entrees were served along with coconut rice.
"Char Kway Teow" Malaysian stir-fried flat rice noodles with chicken, shrimp, eggs, bean sprouts and chives in a dark spicy soy sauce. This dish was so spicy that it left a burn on you tongue and lips for a long time. It ruined your palate for the wines.
"Vegetable Delight Curry" - vegetables and tofu simmered in a rich coconut milk curry gravy. I did not have any of this dish. It did not look appetizing and by time it arrived I was full.
"Grilled Tamarind Shrimp" - Shell on charcoal grilled jumbo shrimp seasoned with tamarind juice. We have had this dish before and the flavors are very good. My objection is the shell on the shrimp and the mess it makes eating it. Your wine glasses suffer. But the flavor is wonderful.
"Daging Kicap Manis ( soy glazed beef, tender cuts of beef sauteed with onions and spices in a sweet thick soy glaze) This was actually served right after the "Char Kway Teow". My palate was still stinging from the dish before so I really could not enjoy the beef.
The "Char Kway Teow" which was served first overwhelmed the last dishes and really took away from the enjoyment of the rest of the meal.
This should have been a really good dinner but unfortunately my palate left me half way through the meal and did not return until close to the end.
I took a NV Santa Julia Sparkling Pinot Rose and a 2004 Rotta "Giubbini" vineyard Zindandel. Rotta is just up the road from Turley Vineyards in Paso Robles. Different style of zin and personaly I prefer it over Turley. Much more food friendly wine. It went very well with the wings and The Santa Julia sparkling which was on the dry side went very well with the Curry Puffs.
We all had a good time and this restaurant is worth visiting.
Next month the group is off to Fritto Misto in Redondo Beach. I will be on vacation at Avila Beach so I will miss Septembers dinner. October is Ante's in San Pedro.
Tonight 17 of us gathered for the monthly "Wine & Dine" dinner. We have been to Belacan Mayalsian restaurant in Redondo Beach several times and the food is always good. A lot of sparkling wines were brought tonight, mainly because of the spiciness of the food.
We started out with 3 appetizers. Malaysian Curry Puffs (pastry stuffed with potato chicken curry (similar to Indian Samosas), Malaysian chicken wings (deep fried wings with turmeric & curry) and Crab Rangoon (crispy wonton pockets filled with crab salad).
The curry puffs were spicy but went well with the Rieslings. The wings went well with the Zinfandels and the crab wontons were mild enough to go with the sparkling wines.
Entrees were served along with coconut rice.
"Char Kway Teow" Malaysian stir-fried flat rice noodles with chicken, shrimp, eggs, bean sprouts and chives in a dark spicy soy sauce. This dish was so spicy that it left a burn on you tongue and lips for a long time. It ruined your palate for the wines.
"Vegetable Delight Curry" - vegetables and tofu simmered in a rich coconut milk curry gravy. I did not have any of this dish. It did not look appetizing and by time it arrived I was full.
"Grilled Tamarind Shrimp" - Shell on charcoal grilled jumbo shrimp seasoned with tamarind juice. We have had this dish before and the flavors are very good. My objection is the shell on the shrimp and the mess it makes eating it. Your wine glasses suffer. But the flavor is wonderful.
"Daging Kicap Manis ( soy glazed beef, tender cuts of beef sauteed with onions and spices in a sweet thick soy glaze) This was actually served right after the "Char Kway Teow". My palate was still stinging from the dish before so I really could not enjoy the beef.
The "Char Kway Teow" which was served first overwhelmed the last dishes and really took away from the enjoyment of the rest of the meal.
This should have been a really good dinner but unfortunately my palate left me half way through the meal and did not return until close to the end.
I took a NV Santa Julia Sparkling Pinot Rose and a 2004 Rotta "Giubbini" vineyard Zindandel. Rotta is just up the road from Turley Vineyards in Paso Robles. Different style of zin and personaly I prefer it over Turley. Much more food friendly wine. It went very well with the wings and The Santa Julia sparkling which was on the dry side went very well with the Curry Puffs.
We all had a good time and this restaurant is worth visiting.
Next month the group is off to Fritto Misto in Redondo Beach. I will be on vacation at Avila Beach so I will miss Septembers dinner. October is Ante's in San Pedro.
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