Elegant Matches at the Four Seasons
Imagine a wine event with the distinguished title of “Around the World” wine tasting, in a most distinguished of surroundings,… the Four Seasons Resort Aviara. Such a gathering took place a couple of weeks ago, as Executive Chef Pierre Albaladejo took the bouquet of over 50 world-class wines and shaped adventurous cuisine to match.
I was curious as to what countries and choices would be made to compliment the title of this ambitious event. There were the natural choices that made the cut: Napa/Sonoma, France and Italy, but further into the world of wines and selections would take some personal taste.
That’s where Max Musto, the Four Seasons Food and Beverage Director’s palate come into play. Max added the following:
Germany with its Riesling, Australia with its Shiraz, New Zealand with its Sauvignon Blanc, Spain with its Rioja, Argentina with its Malbec, and Chile with its Cabernet. But wait… there was one more country, a curious one to fit it into this elite circle: South Africa! 10 wines were chosen, ranging from a “Rubicon” blend to a lovely Viognier which always attracts my attention. All were $30.00 and under.The U.S. choices were all Napa or Sonoma appellations, and selections included an abundance of both Ferrari Carano from Sonoma and Far Niente/Nickel and Nickel from Napa. Not to be outdone, Chateau St. Jean had two of their finest: Cinq Cepages 2003 and Reserve Chardonnay 2005. The Four Seasons Aviara always seems to produce truly excellent events for their wine club members.
A hearty “bravo” for the Around the World format and the memorable wine choices. For more on the wine club, phone 760-603-3790.Try These Wines…
The end of June, I will be revealing my first half wine winners. A few more candidates have come across my desk and as always, the best part of this column is to share these discoveries with you. Like me, hopefully you are constantly looking to expand your list of favorites with exciting new discoveries.
- Tommasi Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2000: Small production favorite from Pedemonte,Verona, Italy. Character and body will make you pay attention. Ultimate vintage for this area. $50.
- Le Petit Vice Napa Valley Cabernet 2004: A Paul Hobbs wine exhibiting classic cab traits. Another triumph for Hobbs. $40.
- Seghesio Old Vine Zinfandel, Sonoma 2005: Picks up where ’04 left off. Seamless quality from a wine family in the biz since 1895. $24.
- South Coast Winery Wild Horse Peak Merlot, Temecula 2003: Red soils, granite outcropping, steep terrain. Winemaker Jon McPherson loves these mountainous 2,200 foot conditions for great Merlot. $30.
- deLorimier Mosaic Meritage, Sonoma 2002: Blend of Cabernet (64%), Merlot (21%) and Malbec (15%). Another master crafted wine from the Alexander Valley. $30.
The Local Sip
The annual Wine and Roses Charity Tasting and Sale is again at the old-world lovely setting of the Westgate Hotel, downtown San Diego at 3pm on Sunday June 10th. San Diego’s finest restaurants will enhance a spectacular number of wine choices for tasting. And you may pick up some excellent bargains on medal winning wines. $75 per person. Call 619-557-3655.
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Bacchus Wine Market in the Gaslamp District of San Diego, is presenting a summer wine tasting party on Saturday June 2nd from 4 to 8pm. 11 wines from around the world are ready for sipping, with music, appetizers and door prizes. Reservations at 619-236-0005. $20 per person.***
Wine Street in Carlsbad has lined up Spain and Portugal wines on Friday June 8th and Washington and Oregon wines on the following Friday, both at 5:30pm and both for $15 per person. They have also started Saturday tastings from Noon to 5pm. Three wines for $5. For more info, call 877-653-2162.Frank Mangio
mangiompc@aol.com.
10631 Vinedale Street, Sun Valley, CA 91352 - Phone (818) 767-3413 - Fax: (818) 767-1410
