SEPTEMBER 2016 HOUSE WINE PAIRINGS
$85 PER GUEST
arrival wine
MV Louis Roederer Champagne, Brut Premier, Montagne de Reims, France
Pairing Notes: This grower Champagne from their Premier Cru classified vineyards is comprised of about forty percent Pinot Noir, forty percent Chardonnay, and twenty percent Pinot Meunier. Striking a perfect balance between youthfulness and maturity, seduction and character, freshness and vinosity, Brut Premier is a champagne that is harmonious and structured, elegant and lively, with a unique exuberancy.
first course
2015 Campesino ‘Chiquis’ Grenache Blanc, Sonoma Coast
Pairing Notes: This beautiful wine features aromas of tropical fruit and fresh-cut melon. It is medium-bodied with a lovely richness of quince paste. Ripe pear is quickly balanced by a fresh citrus burst. The glass finishes with mouthwatering acidity and quenches any thirst. This is the perfect mate for your first course Tomato Coulis and Dungeness Crab dish.
second course
Rihaku ‘Dreamy Clouds’ Junmai Ginjo Nigori, Shimane Prefecture, Japan
Pairing Notes: We could not think of a better pairing for your Tsukimi course. This sake is served in a Masu Box to represent the abundance of appreciation we have for our guests. The nose is led by steamed rice, fresh red plums, and undertones of roasted peanuts. Unlike many Nigori, or unfiltered sake, this is bright and lean in the mouth while maintaining a slightly creamy texture.
third course
2014 Langwerth Von Simmern Riesling, Kabinett, Erbacher Marcobrunn, Rheingau, Germany
Pairing Notes: The peppers in your third dish call for a touch of sweetness in the wine pairing.This is a beautiful glass of Riesling. The nose features lots of honeyed peach & pear with a mineral-driven core. It is ultra refreshing, perfect for this late summer heat, and in a very good way, your typical German Riesling. It is a great example of Kabinett that punches well above its weight.
fourth course
2013 Down By Law Cabernet Sauvignon, California
Pairing Notes: This winery is founded by Master Sommelier Chris Blanchard, aka DJ Vitamix, who actually toured with Run DMC and DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince back in the day. We could not phrase the tasting notes better than the man himself: “Aromas: IHOP blackberry jam, Count Chocula, elf shoes, slicker than Yahphet Kotto and sexier than Pam Grier.” “Palate: Schmoove frappucino, chocolate, See’s Candies and leather pants.” DJ Vitamix indeed! Enjoy with the fourth course Steak Frites.
dessert course
2015 Rombauer ‘Joy’ Late Harvest Chardonnay, Carneros
Pairing Notes: This wine is special because it is only made about once every five years, as the weather conditions have to be just right to accommodate the growth of Botrytis. The vineyards are located right next to the San Pablo Bay and provide an ideal amount of humidity. The barrels that are used for aging get toasted the same morning that the wine goes into the barrel. This beauty opens with enticing aromas of honey, ripe apricot, and roasted nut. Those same notes are echoed on the palate, along with luscious pineapple, crème brulee, and vanilla. A touch of ‘joy’ to complement your romance with dessert!