Top L.A. Restaurants Introduce Tasty & Bountiful Take-Out & Delivery Options For Delicious and Healthy Dining at Home!

March 18, 2020 by evebushman

Drago Bakery (Culver City): Owner and Executive Chef Celestino Drago has created a special Take-Out Menu at Drago Bakery in Culver City that will feature freshly baked and freezable essentials that guests can pick-up and prepare at home. Chef Drago and the Drago Bakery team will be offering the following Take-Out Menu every Monday through Friday for pick-up from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm – Fresh Pasta Package($55) which will include a choice of Lasagna Bolognese, Chicken and Mushroom Lasagna, or Vegetarian Lasagna that will serve up to 10 guests and be packaged cold. Main Proteins such as the Chicken Breast with Marsala and Mushrooms ($80), and a Beef Stew with Red Wine & Spices ($95), will also be packed cold and serve up to 10 guests. Side Orders will feature 2-pound containers of Assorted Roasted Vegetables, Roasted Potatoes, and Brussels Sprouts with Ginger & Shallots ($18 each). Fresh Soups include a choice of Minestrone, Pumpkin, and Lentil, and will be packaged in 32-ounce deli-cups and offered cold or frozen ($12 each). Executive Chef Celestino Drago will also have plenty of Bakery Goods available such as Breads featuring a Ciabatta Loaf (1 ½ lbs., $3.50), Pagnotta Sourdough (2 ½ lbs., $5), Rustic Baguette ($2.50), and Whole Wheat Harvest (2 lbs., $5). The Cakes will include a Cheesecake ($28), and a Chocolate Flourless Cake ($28). Lastly, a selection of Fresh Breakfast Pastries will include Plain Croissants ($2.25 each), Chocolate Croissants ($3.00 each), Almond Croissants ($3.75 each), Ham & Cheese Croissants($3.75 each), and Coffee Muffins, Banana Muffins, Walnut Muffins, and Blueberry Muffins ($3 each). To place a special Take-Out Order please call Drago Bakery directly at 310.280.6004 or stop by Drago Bakery anytime Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Drago Bakery will be offering Take-Out Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; 3828 Willat Avenue, Culver City, CA 90232; 310.280.6004; www.DragoBakery.com

Georgia’s Restaurant (Anaheim & Long Beach): Grab a delicious bucket of savory Southern Fried Chicken for the family or any savory Southern dish from Georgia’s Restaurant at both the Long Beach Exchange and Anaheim Packing House locations. Georgia’s Long Beach is offering Curbside Pickup all day until close, and delivery through Grubhub. Georgia’s Anaheim is available for delivery through DoorDash, Grubhub and Uber Eats. They are offering incredible Family Packages at both locations featuring an 8-Piece Fried Chicken Dinner with 2 Large Soulful Sides for $20.00. They are also offering a Soulful Dinner with a choice of two of the following Georgia’s Restaurant Plate-Ups – Fried Chicken, Grilled Tilapia, Fried Catfish, Smothered Pork Chops, or Specialty Dishes including Blackened Chicken Pasta or Jambalaya. The Plate-Up and Specialty Dish selections will be served with two Georgia’s House Salads and Georgia’s house-made Cornbread for $30.00. If guests prefer to order off the menu they can never go wrong with the St. Louis BBQ Ribs, a half-rack of slow-roasted pork ribs in Georgia’s Restaurant signature house-made BBQ sauce, and a tasty Soulful Side such as the Collard Greens, Baked Beans, Mac & Cheese, or Nana Gretchen’s famous Cornbread served with house-made honey butter.

Georgia’s Restaurant at the Long Beach Exchange offers Take-Out and Delivery Monday through Thursday from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm, Friday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, Saturday from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, and Sunday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm; 4101 McGowen Street, Suite 115, Long Beach, CA 92630; 714.906.1900; www.Georgias-Restaurant.com

Georgia’s Restaurant at the Anaheim Packing House offers Take-Out and Delivery Monday through Thursday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, Friday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, Saturday from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm, and Sunday from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm; 440 South Anaheim Boulevard #209A, Anaheim, CA 92805; 562.420.5637; www.Georgias-Restaurant.com

Gus’s Barbecue (South Pasadena, Claremont & Porter Ranch): Gus’s Barbecue in South Pasadena, Claremont and recently opened Porter Ranch offers Take-Out at all locations and online ordering through their website for both Lunch and Dinner. Gus’s Barbecue in Claremont and Porter Ranch each offer Delivery through Postmates and Grubhub, and Gus’s Barbecue in South Pasadena offers Delivery through Postmates. Each restaurant has a special Take-Out Menu at each location that can be found at www.GussBBQ.com. Guests can order some incredible BBQ for the entire family with Gus’s Real Pit BBQ including Memphis Baby Back Ribs, BBQ Brick Chicken, Texas Beef Brisket, St. Louis Spare Ribs, Peppercorn Crusted Tri-Tip, Smoked Sausage and the Carolina Style Pulled Pork, each seasoned overnight and then smoked low and slow for up to fourteen hours over whole pecan logs in order to create Gus’s signature smoke flavor. Do not forget Gus’s Barbecue’s Cast Iron Cornbread served with jalapeño jelly and honey butter, or their Smokehouse Chili prepared with Nebraska ground beef, cheddar cheese, red onion and pickled jalapeños.

Gus’s Barbecue South Pasadena offers Take-Out and Delivery Monday through Thursday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, Friday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, Saturday from 8:30 am to 11:00 pm, and Sunday from 8:30 am to 10:00 pm; 808 Fair Oaks Ave, South Pasadena; 626.799.3251; www.GussBBQ.com

Gus’s Barbecue Claremont offers Take-Out and Delivery Monday through Thursday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, Friday from 11:00 am to 12:00 Midnight, Saturday from 8:30 am to 12:00 Midnight, and Sunday from 8:30 am to 10:00 pm; 500 W 1st Street, Claremont, CA 91711; 909.445.0931; www.GussBBQ.com

Gus’s Barbecue Porter Ranch offers Take-Out and Delivery Monday through Thursday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 11:00 am to 12:00 Midnight, and Sunday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm; 818.341.3000; www.GussBBQ.com

Il Pastaio (Beverly Hills): Il Pastaio will be offering Take-Out for both for Lunch and Dinner every Monday through Sunday from 11:30 am to 10:00 pm to support their community and guests’ in-home dining needs. Il Pastaio will be offering a slightly reduced Take-Out Menu, but guests will still be able to order many of their favorite Drago Family dishes. To place a Take-Out Order directly, please call Il Pastaioat 310.205.5444 and feel free to utilize Il Pastaio’s Curbside Pickup as the City of Beverly Hills has made it possible for guests to pull right in front of Il Pastaio during this time.

Il Pastaio will be offering Take-Out and Delivery Monday through Sunday from 11:30 am to 10:00 pm; 400 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210; 310.205.5444; www.IlPastaioBeverlyHills.com

Burrata Pizza, Courtesy of Il Segreto

Il Segreto (Bel Air): Il Segreto will be offering Take-Out every Monday through Sunday from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm to support their community and guests’ in-home dining needs. Il Segreto will be offering a slightly reduced Take-Out Menu, but guests will still be able to order many of their beloved traditional Italian dishes. To place a Take-Out Order directly, please call Il Segreto at 310.474.8644. Guests can also order from Grubhub if they prefer delivery.

Il Segreto will be offering Take-Out and Delivery Monday through Sunday from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm; 2932 Beverly Glen Circle, Bel Air, CA 90077; 310.474.8644; www.IlSegretoRistorante.com

Open Face Food Shop (Los Angeles): Open Face Food Shop’s delicious and nutritious, vegetable-filled Danish-inspired dishes will be available for Take-Out for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner every Tuesday through Friday from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, and on Saturday from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm startingWednesday, March 18th. Open Face Food Shop will be offering Executive Chef Lene Houck’s Traditional Menu and an expanded HYGGE-TO-GO Menu including special Family Boxes that will be changing daily and feature fresh Farmers Market produce. Associated with relaxation, indulgence, and gratitude, Hygge has long been considered a part of the Danish national character. Guests can enjoy fresh and delicious items such as the Egg Salad & Pork Danish Open Face Sandwich offering a curried egg salad with leek and pickled herring sandwich paired with a pork loin, apple, braised cabbage, and pickles for a delicious and nutritious Lunch. Meat lovers are in luck with the Hakke Bøf, a Danish-style open-faced burger made with grass-fed beef, caramelized onions, shaved Brussels sprouts, and quick-pickled cucumber on top of Nathan’s Artisan Sourdough. For something sweet, Chef Lene’s Almond Cake is scrumptious and served with homemade labneh and blueberry compote. Open Face Food Shop will soon be offering Online Ordering and will have updates at www.OpenFaceFoodShop.com when this is available. Since quantities may be limited, Open Face Food Shop recommends that guests call 855.676.3223 ahead of time (preferably by 12:00 Noon) for that evening’s Take-Out Pickup.

Open Face Food Shop offers Take-Out Tuesday through Friday from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, and on Saturday from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm; 5577 West Adams Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90016; 855.676.3223; www.OpenFaceFoodShop.com

Panzanella Ristorante (Sherman Oaks): Panzanella Ristorante will be offering Take-Out every Monday through Sunday from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm to support their community and guests’ in-home dining needs. Panzanella Ristorante will be offering a slightly reduced Take-Out Menu, but guests will still be able to order many of their favorite Italian comfort dishes. To place a Take-Out Order directly, please call Panzanella Ristorante at 818.784.4400 and feel free to request Curbside Pickup as that has now been made available at Panzanella Ristorante. Guests can also order from Grubhub and Postmates if they prefer delivery.

Panzanella Ristorante will be offering Take-Out and Delivery Monday through Sunday from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm; 14928 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403; 818.784.4400; www.PanzanellaRistoranteBar.com

Piccolo Paradiso Ristorante (Beverly Hills): Piccolo Paradiso Ristorante will be offering Take-Out for both for Lunch and Dinner every Monday through Sunday from 11:30 am to 10:00 pm to support the community and their guests in-home dining needs. Piccolo Paradiso Ristorante will be offering a slightly reduced Take-Out Menu, but guests will still be able to order many of their favorite classic dishes. To place a Take-Out Order directly, please call Piccolo Paradiso Ristorante at 310.271.0030.

Piccolo Paradiso Ristorante will be offering Take-Out and Delivery Monday through Sunday from 11:30 am to 10:00 pm; 150 South Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210; 310.271.0030; www.PiccoloParadisoBeverlyHills.com

SHU Sushi House Unico (Bel Air): SHU Sushi House Unico will be offering Take-Out every Monday through Sunday from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm to support their community and guests’ in-home dining needs. SHU will be offering a slightly reduced Take-Out Menu, but guests will still be able to order many of their favorite Japanese-Italian fusion dishes. To place a Take-Out Order directly, please call SHU at 310.474.2740.

SHU Sushi House Unico will be offering Take-Out Monday through Sunday from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm; 2932 ½ Beverly Glen Circle, Los Angeles, CA 90077; 310.474.2740; www.ShuSushi.com

Tacocita (Pasadena): Pasadena’s newest taco stop, Tacocita, featuring tacos and smoked chicken made with incredible flavors from regions all over Mexico and California is here to provide some Mexican goodness for Lunch and Dinner Take-Out by calling Tacocita directly, ordering online or for delivery through Grubhub, Postmates, and DoorDash. Tacocita wants to offer every guest some scratch made value-driven Take-Out Packages for their loved ones to help support families and the community during this time. Tacocita’s full Take-Out Menu is accessible online along with their newly created Take-Out Packages for Pickup or Delivery.

For groups of 4 People, Tacocita is offering the Hen House including 4 Citrus-Marinated & Smoked Boneless Half Chickens, Black Beans and Poblano Rice, 1 Tacocita Salad, and 12 Hand-Pressed Tortillas for $55.00; The Taco Party includes 8 Tacos, 2 Bags of Chips & Salsa, Guacamole, Black Beans, and Poblano Rice for $40.00, or the Burrito Bash served with 2 Tacocita Burritos, 4 Tacos, 1 Tacocita Salad, and 2 Bags of Chips & Salsa for $40.00.

For groups of 6 People the Hen House offers 6 Citrus-Marinated & Smoked Boneless Half Chickens, Black Beans and Poblano Rice, 2 Tacocita Salads, and 18 Hand-Pressed Tortillas for $85.00; The Taco Party includes 12 Tacos, 3 Bags of Chips & Salsa, Guacamole, Black Beans, and Poblano Rice for $65.00, or the Burrito Bash is served with 3 Tacocita Burritos, 6 Tacos, 2 Tacocita Salads, and 3 Bags of Chips & Salsa for $65.00.

For larger groups of 10 People, the Hen House offers 10 Citrus-Marinated & Smoked Boneless Half Chickens, Black Beans and Poblano Rice, 3 Tacocita Salads, and 30 Hand-Pressed Tortillas for $135.00; The Taco Party includes 20 Tacos, 5 Bags of Chips & Salsa,Guacamole, Black Beans, and Poblano Rice for $100.00, or the Burrito Bash is served with 5 Tacocita Burritos, 10 Tacos, 3 Tacocita Salads, and 5 Bags of Chips & Salsa for $100.00.

Tacocita offers Take-Out and Delivery Monday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm; 203 South Rosemead Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91107; 626.460.8669; www.EatatTacocita.com

The Original Top’s (Pasadena): The Original Top’s, a classic Pasadena institution and long-standing restaurant has been serving comforting and approachable scratch made food since 1952 and they are now offering Take-Out and Drive-Thru to help feed families during this time. The Original Top’soffers Breakfast Take-Out until 11:00 am which includes selections such as the Steak & Egg Burrito made with Carne Asada, scrambled eggs, homestyle potatoes, jack and cheddar cheese, and for Lunch Take-Out, guests can opt for the Famous Pastrami with a slowly marinated special au jus, piled high on a French Roll with mustard and pickles. For something warm and hearty, guests can order the Chili Bowl made with The Original Top’s signature chili and diced onions, Zucchini Sticks or French Fries. For something sweet, save room and order a vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry Old Fashioned Shake.

The Original Top’s offers Take-Out and Drive-Thru from 6:30 am to 11:00 pm; 3838 East Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91107; 626.449.4412; www.TheOriginalTops.com

The Raymond 1886 (Pasadena): The Raymond 1886, Pasadena’s beloved Craftsman Cottage is offering Take-Out and Delivery for families to share at home for Lunch and Dinner during the week, and for Brunch and Dinner on the weekend. They are offering a 10% discount on all takeout orders when calling the restaurant directly and curbside pickup. The Raymond 1886 will offer Delivery through DoorDash and Grubhub, and they are working on becoming available via Postmates as well. The Raymond 1886’s Take-Out Menus can be found atwww.TheRaymond.com. For some tasty comfort, guests can order The Cuban Sandwich prepared with pork belly, black forest ham, Dijon, mojo sauce, swiss cheese, pickles, served on Cuban bread with Parmesan fries, or the restaurant’s famous Raymond Currymade with marinated chicken breast, sautéed vegetables, rice, and golden raisins, peanuts, and fresh coconut shavings served on the side. The Bolognaise made with veal, pork belly, beef, rigatoni, pomodoro, Grana Padano and crispy sage, is another top Take-Out choice for a delicious meal that feels homemade without all the fuss!

The Raymond 1886 offers Take-Out and Delivery every Tuesday through Friday for Lunch from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, for Dinner from 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm, for Brunch and Lunch every Saturday through Sunday from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm, and for Dinner from 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm; 1250 South Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91105; 626.441.3136; www.TheRaymond.com

Via Alloro (Beverly Hills): Via Alloro will be offering Take-Out for both for Lunch and Dinner every Monday through Sunday from 11:30 am to 10:00 pm to support the community and their guests in-home dining needs. Via Alloro will be offering a slightly reduced Take-Out Menu, but guests will still be able to order many of their favorite Drago classics. To place a Take-Out Order directly, please call Via Alloro at 310.275.2900 and the restaurant will also be offering Curbside Pickup. Guests can also order from Postmates if they prefer delivery. Via Alloro will be offering Take-Out and Delivery Monday through Sunday from 11:30 am to 10:00 pm; 310 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210; 310.275.2900; www.ViaAlloro.com

Yojisan Sushi (Beverly Hills): Yojisan Sushi will be offering Take-Out every Monday through Saturday for Lunch from 12:00 noon to 2:30 pm and for Dinner from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm to support their community and guests’ in-home dining needs. Yojisan Sushi will be offering a slightly reduced Take-Out Menu, but guests will still be able to order many of their favorite fresh fish dishes. To place a Take-Out Order directly, please call Yojisan Sushi at 424.245.3799. Guests can also order from Postmates if they prefer delivery.

Yojisan Sushi will be offering Take-Out and Delivery Monday through Saturday for Lunch from 12:00 Noon to 2:30 pm and for Dinner from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm; 260 North Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210; 424.245.3799; www.Yojisan.com

Culinary and Cultural Journey through the Tennessee River Valley

February 23, 2020 by evebushman

KNOXVILLE, TENN. (PRWEB) – According to the World Food Travel Association, “food tourism is the act of traveling for a taste of place in order to get a sense of place.” The Tennessee River Valley region, while an outdoor mecca with its beautiful scenery and endless recreation opportunities, is also very much a place for a cultural and gastronomic adventure with its diverse culinary scene.

Photo: Sean Pavone

“Dining out should be much more than just eating and drinking. Here in the Tennessee River Valley, living is centered around meals and this should be no different when visiting a destination. Mealtime should be about creating memories while offering an authentic and unique experience that cannot be obtained anywhere else,” said Julie Graham, spokesperson for the Tennessee River Valley Stewardship Council.

The Tennessee River Valley Mapguide has put together a must taste and experience list to showcase the region’s diverse culinary scene. Each of these locally owned establishments provide a unique culinary experience while connecting visitors to the local culture.

Housed in a historic 1800s log home, Old 23rd Restaurant in Big Sandy, Tenn. is a unique destination for visitors looking for authentic southern fare. Meals are made from scratch using old family recipes and local antiques and memorabilia are displayed throughout the restaurant.

Serving homestyle favorites, Clinch Mountain Lookout Restaurant’s claim to fame is its vinegar pie. For almost 60 years, the restaurant has been serving this unusual treat. The pie first appeared during the depression when lemons were relatively rare and expensive and resourceful homemakers learned to substitute vinegar for the tart flavor found in lemon pie.

Litton’s Market and Restaurant is a Knoxville favorite dating back to the 1940s, and today, the old-time diner style restaurant is known for its burgers featuring freshly-ground beef and buns made in house.

Located in a historic trolley barn in downtown Chattanooga just steps away from Ross’s Landing on the Tennessee River, Big River Grille and Brewing Works pays tribute to the riverboat heritage of the city and features made from scratch regional cuisine and beer made on-site by the on-site local brewer.

Dinner on the Diner allows patrons to enjoy fine dining while the train travels through the scenic Tennessee countryside on a railroad excursion.

Dutch Maid Bakery in Tracy City is on the historic registry for being the oldest family owned bakery in the state of Tennessee. Serving breakfast and lunch daily, the bakery uses the same traditional recipes that the Baggenstoss family has carried on for several generations.

While in Murray, Kentucky, stop by the Maple Street Market for unique made in Kentucky products and locally produced goods. Cooking classes featuring locally grown produce and goods are also offered throughout the year.

Led by chef/proprietor Sara Bradley, runner-up on season 16 of Bravo’s competitive cooking show Top Chef, Freight House’ s rotating menu features locally sourced meats, dairies, fruits and vegetables and Kentucky Blue Snapper sourced from the region’s rivers for a farm-to-table dining experience. The building that houses the restaurant was originally a freight depot.

This fifth-generation German bakery features traditional Old-World methods and family recipes. With roots dating back to 1873, Kirchhoff’s Bakery, Deli and Market has been a part of Paducah’s history, supplying the daily bread for locals’ tables through 1957. The deli reopened in 1997 and uses ingredients from the local farmer’s market to make fresh artisan breads, pastries, sandwiches, soups and salads.

Located in Grand Rivers, Ky., Patti’s 1880’s Settlement is famous for their two-inch thick pork chops, mile-high meringue pies and flower pot bread. With six gift shops in a recreated log cabin village, beautiful gardens, winding streams, miniature golf, remote control boats and a 26-foot tall rock wall, the restaurant is a destination in itself.

Nestled in the valley between the Cumberland and Blue Ridge mountains, downtown Dalton is Georgia’s fifth largest downtown district. From Southern cuisine, to pizza and beer, to quaint cafes, to Mexican and fine dining, Downtown Dalton has no shortage of culinary offerings to tickle any taste bud.

With its focus on nature and fresh ingredients, Wildflower Café is the go-to place in Mentone, a cozy little town located atop Lookout Mountain. The restaurant is featured in the book “The Southern Foodie: 100 Places to Eat in the South Before You Die.” Be sure to visit the Country Store for local artwork, handmade cards and other gift items and mementos to take back home.

Main Street Café is housed in the town’s old City Hall in downtown Madison, a suburban-Huntsville city. Enjoy lunch in one of the two previous jail cells while feasting on homemade casseroles such as Poulet de Normandie, Georgia Chicken and Cheesy Meatloaf.

Rattlesnake Saloon is a unique eatery nestled beneath a natural stone bluff that once sheltered Native Americans in northwest Alabama. Known as the watering hole under the rock, this is a place the whole family can eat, relax and enjoy connecting to local history.

The Freight House, located in the historic L&N freight depot in downtown Hartselle, Ala., offers views of passing trains and an opportunity to learn about the role of the railroad industry in North Alabama.

Save trip ideas and plan a trip easily with the Tennessee River Valley Geotourism MapGuide, an online guide of authentic places and adventures that have been recommended by locals. For additional dining options, click here.

Vintage Eve Circa 3/2017: Tablas Creek Tasting

January 28, 2020 by evebushman

This past month I got to sample some of the wines from Tablas Creek in a preview tasting held at Salt Creek Grille Valencia and organized by Carl and Terry Kanowsky. Why?

On February 22 (2017) I ran the news on my website, social media and my weekly newsletter, but here it is in a nutshell:

Local supporters of the Santa Clarita Boys and Girls Club Carl and Terry Kanowsky, along with Greg Amsler of Salt Creek Grille are holding “an intimate wine experience on March 21, 2017, beginning at 6:30 at Salt Creek” to benefit the club. This year marks their seventh collaborative wine tasting event.

The highlighted winery will be Tablas Creek from Paso Robles with winemaker Jason Haas on hand to pour six of his wines – that will be matched with dishes from Salt Creek Grille. An auction will also take place.

Now, back to me, I got to taste the wines so that I can make your mouth water enough to buy tickets to the event! Wine critic Robert Parker has already said, “These are fabulous wines that will certainly stand up to the best coming out of the Rhône Valley in France. Certainly a reference point for Paso Robles, Tablas Creek continues to produce wines in a restrained, age-worthy and savory style that sets them apart. To say I came away impressed would be an understatement.”

Photo from Yelp

Eve’s Tasting Notes – aromas and flavors divided by ;

Some of these notes were aided by 30 yearlong club supporters John and Debra Heys, Boys and Girls Club CEO David Menchaca, the club’s director of administration Matt Nelson, Salt Creek Grille Sales and Marketing Director Jennifer Chadwick, Terry Kanowsky and Chef Tamra Levine.

2015 Patelin de Tablas Rose

Grenache, Counoise, Mourvedre, Syrah

On the nose there was a lovely fresh strawberry followed by lemon, white peach and white pepper; in the mouth there was a bit of red berry, grapefruit, lemon and a medium acid that worked well with the menu.

2015 Vermentino

100% Vermentino

Ripe pear in light syrup, mandarin orange, Limoncello and wet stones appeared on the nose; on the palate I got a nice viscosity, lemon-lime, and that same tinge of orange again all in great balance.

2014 Esprit de Tablas Blanc

Roussane, Grenache Blanc, Picpoul Blanc

Golden delicious apple, cream and white flower were welcoming aromas; followed by flavors reminiscent of a fresh fruit cocktail. Definitely an easy sipper, very balanced.

2014 Cotes de Tablas

Grenache, Syrah, Counoise, Mourvedre

Dried black cherry, dark chocolate, blueberry, black licorice and bark on the nose; then robust flavors of blackberry, blueberry, dark chocolate covered cherry and cracked black pepper in the mouth.

2014 Esprit de Tablas

Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Counoise

Detected blue to black fruits, mushroom and ash aromas; the same black fruit on the palate as well as firm tannins which made it appear seemingly older than a 2014.

2011 Esprit de Tablas

Brighter red fruit than the younger wines, including red currant and bing cherry, earth and mint; on the palate the wine was bright, spicy, balanced as the tannins had softened a bit.

Menu by Chef Tamra Levine

The first three wines, the rose and two whites, will be highlighted by “Salmon 3-Ways” and we sampled the second “way”, which was a beautiful presentation of Salmon Tartar, Grapefruit and Avocado.

The reds will be paired with the “Interlude Presentation” and we had the opportunity to sample the “Concluding Presentation”, which consisted of Discs of Grilled Artisan Sausage, Smoky Blackberry BBQ Sauce and Savory Waffle.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Luxury, High End Finishes among Top 6 Trends in Restaurant Construction in 2020

January 15, 2020 by evebushman

PHILADELPHIA (PRWEB) – Restaurant construction is booming in the U.S. as dining establishments and eateries seek to become more relevant in the ultra-competitive hospitality and culinary world. So what will be making news in the new year? Maxim Parkhomchuk, VP of Construction & Executive Project Manager at LOTT Restaurant Construction in Philadelphia, shares his insights on some of the top trends he’s predicting will continue into 2020. Parkhomchuk gained his expertise from managing the construction of many notable restaurants including B2 Bluefin (Bala Cynwyd), Andiario (West Chester), and coming in 2020…Steak48 (Philadelphia). The LOTT team has collectively built over 400 restaurants throughout the United States since 1992. Here’s what Parkhomchuk is seeing right now in restaurant design and construction in the U.S.:

Photo from Lott Restaurant Construction’s Facebook page.

The Return of Luxury
High-end finishes, grandiose designs and exclusive materials will be making a comeback. The new 12,000-square foot Steak 48 concept currently under construction at 260 S. Broad Street in the historic Atlantic building in Philadelphia is a prime example of the swing to a luxury dining experience, says Parkhomchuk. The $7 million project he is overseeing for one of the country’s most recognized names in steakhouse culture — Michael and Jeffrey Mastro — is loaded with custom materials from abroad. “We’re talking handmade tiles from Mexico and custom mirrors from overseas. The palette of bold, rich colors and details such as gold, brass, stone and metal trims in abundance.” He says, “Companies are no longer seeking to cut corners or skimp; when it comes to the ‘show’ or overall patron experience.” In the same vein, look for textured wall coverings, materials you want to touch, and innovative materials such as acoustical fabric ceilings and highly-decorative industrial grade flooring.

Private Dining Suites
Primarily earmarked for large parties, expect to see more private dining rooms for smaller groups designed with a lot of thought. These rooms increase revenue for owners, allowing them to offer different menu options and also serve as overflow dining spaces on busy nights. Many private rooms are equipped with audio visual equipment for meetings or to display photos for parties, but the technology is so well integrated into the design that when not in use, they disappear from view. Private rooms designed as “swing spaces” with roll away doors or glass walls gives the restaurant versatility in usage.

Visible Kitchens
Open kitchens continue to be popular allowing diners to be closer to the action. Steak 48 will feature a one-of-a-kind 1,500-square foot expo kitchen with ceiling-to-floor glass wall surrounds, including adjacent booth seating peering directly into the expo kitchen. Aside from being incredibly clean and well organized due to all of the “transparency,” open kitchen concepts allow the customers to get intimate with the action and provide wonderful modes of observation.

High-tech Communication Tools
Whether it’s utilizing ProCore or EarthCam, a high-tech framework/platform for effective team collaboration on complex projects; Revit or BIM software which uses 3D modeling in every phase of the project, from concept to visualization; or high definition photo and video scanning, there’s no denying the expanding role of technology. Virtual reality is now!

Bringing the Outdoors In
This trend will continue to get better with the use of higher tech products such as retractable roofs, accordion doors, outdoor fireplaces and all-weather heaters, and all weather rooftops. Restaurants that don’t have access to outdoor space are bringing the outdoors in using greenery, large glass windows, glass walls and oversized garage doors that can remain open in nice weather.

Fashionable and Functional Wine Storage
High-tech wine cases are becoming increasingly more visually stunning design statements in U.S. restaurants. No longer relegated to the cellar, restaurant wine collections are on full display in gorgeous glass cases in the bar or dining room. It’s often a challenge to incorporate an elaborate wine storage unit into front of the house designs, and construction teams need to coordinate multiple sophisticated engineering systems – refrigeration, lighting and HVAC controls — into an esthetically pleasing and functional design. Between the orchestration of material deliveries, the coordination of trades people, and the challenges of existing space fit-outs (as opposed to new construction), the creation of fashionable and functional wine storage can be quite tricky, but the LOTT team agrees that the visual and capital benefits for operators make it well worth the aggravation.

LOTT Restaurant Construction is a full-service construction management firm specializing in restaurant development and design. LOTT thrives on bringing complex projects to completion in record time and maintaining strict cost controls. The company has opened more than 400 restaurant locations in more than 15 states nationwide. As Frank Lott says, “We equate the construction of a restaurant to that of a fine watch. It must be precise, exact, consistent and on time. That’s what we do at LOTT. That’s the only way we know.” To learn more, please visit http://www.restaurantsontime.com/.

Kick in the New Year by Celebrating National Mocktail Week Raise a Toast Between January 12-18

January 12, 2020 by evebushman

SEATTLE (PRWEB) – Kick off the New Year and Dry January with a new reason to raise a toast—it’s National Mocktail Week. The second full week of January (January 12-18) is officially National Mocktail Week, a week that recognizes and celebrates the desire by a growing number of Americans to enjoy non-alcoholic alternatives to traditional drinks.

“Throughout 2019 more restaurants and people entertaining at home began to serve up mocktails with greater frequency and flare, a trend we don’t see slowing down. We saw establishments make an effort to create and serve extraordinary alcohol-free drinks to patrons,” said Marnie. “The mocktail movement is about so much more than the drink – it’s about making guests feel welcome at our establishments and included in the moment.”

Now celebrating its second year, National Mocktail Week supports and celebrates the decision to drink non-alcoholic cocktails and encourages friends and family to do the same. The movement is spearheaded by Founder Marnie Rae. 17 years ago, Marnie became sober and it didn’t take long for her to realize that fun, delicious, grown-up cocktails were not an option in most of the hospitality world. Marnie founded National Mocktail Week as just one aspect of her movement to make Mocktails a standard on the drink menu both at home and in bars/restaurants.

With the number of Americans choosing not to drink alcohol but still socializing and enjoying going out for a meal, the need for better and more Mocktails on the menu is needed and encouraged.

Here is the National Mocktail Week 2020 recipe.

Mocktail: Pomegranate Sparkler
Pomegranate Syrup
Ingredients:
2 cups pomegranate juice
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:
Bring 2 cups pomegranate juice, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice to a simmer in an uncovered saucepan, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved. Reduce heat just enough to maintain a light simmer for one hour, or until the juice has a syrupy consistency and has reduced to about half a cup. Pour pomegranate syrup into a glass jar and allow to cool. Store chilled in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.

Pomegranate Sparkler
Ingredients:
4 tablespoons pomegranate syrup (from recipe above)
8 ounces spicy ginger beer or ginger ale
2 grapefruit slices
2 sprigs fresh mint

Instructions: In two champagne flutes, evenly divide the pomegranate syrup. Top with 4 ounces ginger beer, each. Garnish each flute with a fresh grapefruit slice and sprig of fresh mint.

And help support the movement, A Sober not Boing t-shirt is $21.99 and a set of 8 note cards $17.95 go to http://www.marnierae.com/shop to order.

Everyone is encouraged to choose a mocktail over a cocktail during National Mocktail Week and show support needed to continue a healthy lifestyle. Better yet, give a new Mocktail a try!

For more information visit http://www.marnierae.com and join her at https://www.facebook.com/marnieraec, https://www.instagram.com/marnieraec/, https://www.pinterest.com/marnie_clark1/. Use #NationalMocktailWeek to share recipes and experience the best that Mocktails have to offer!

About Marnie Rae
Marnie, the Founder of National Mocktail Week, is dedicated to bringing Mocktails to the forefront of entertaining and hospitality. She holds a firm belief that the Mocktail movement is about a much bigger picture than a beverage. It is about making people feel welcome, included, thought of, and a part of something. For more information visit http://www.marnierae.com

Portola Hotel and Spa Celebrates the Holiday Season with Dazzling Festivities

November 24, 2019 by evebushman

Monterey, CA — The holiday season has never looked brighter! Portola Hotel & Spa, the elegant Four-Diamond hotel situated along Central California’s Monterey Bay, is hosting magical events for the whole family to celebrate the holiday season including a throwback to the 80’s with a righteous New Year’s Eve event.

Portola Hotel & Spa invites families to celebrate the holiday magic of Monterey and take part in the second annual Winter Wonderland from December 13-25, 2019. Portola’s Winter Wonderland will offer a variety of entertainment, activities, dining experiences and more. In the spirit of holiday giving, the hotel has partnered with The Salvation Army and will provide barrels for food donations in the lobby. In addition, complimentary champagne and themed treats inspired by the 12 Days of Christmas will be served in the lobby from 4:30pm to 6pm, courtesy of Portola’s Culinary Team! With caroling from children’s choirs, a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus, cookie decorating and face painting, these are just a few of the back-to-back festivities the hotel has in store.

Although winter in California might be full of sunshine and sandy beaches, winter is still in full swing all around the property, from classic winter activities to cozy culinary experiences. From November 23 through January 5, 2020, visitors can lace up their skates at the Custom House Plaza adjacent to the Portola Hotel for Ice Skating by the Bay! Back for another year of ice skating under the Monterey sun, this is a winter activity the whole family can enjoy. Sip your favorite holiday beverage and savor in the seasonal menu selections from Jacks Monterey, located inside the Portola Hotel. Jacks is the perfect place to cozy up with your loved ones on the newly renovated terrace among a blazing outdoor fire pit. At Monterey’s first craft brewery, Peter B’s Brewpub, pick up the coveted Annual Ugly Sweater and warm your soul with handcrafted seasonal ales and locally sourced eats.

To ring in the new year, Portola Hotel & Spa is hosting a Totally 80s New Year’s Eve Party! Festivities start at 7pm on December 31, 2019 for 21+ and older. Enjoy live music, a buffet dinner and an open bar for a righteous time in downtown Monterey. Arrive in new wave style – loud colors, statement makeup and excessive hair gel are welcome. Dance to live music from The Money Band in the grand ballroom and countdown to 2020 with a champagne toast and balloon drop at midnight. Guests can even capture their evening at The Vintage PhotoBox photobooth.

To round out the night, guests can stay in a well-appointed guest room at Portola Hotel & Spa for ultimate relaxation after dancing the night away. The New Year’s Eve Party Overnight Package is now available and includes admission for two for the 80s themed-party. Tickets are available for pre-sale at $160 per person until November 30, 2019 and will be available for purchase until December 31, 2019 for $175 per person. Tickets are $160 per military personnel with valid ID.

Totally 80s New Years Eve will be an unforgettable night of revelry. For overnight accommodations or for more information, visit portolahotel.com.

About Portola Hotel & Spa

The AAA Four Diamond, Portola Hotel & Spa in Monterey, CA was one of the first U.S. Green Building Council LEED® Certified hotel on California’s Central Coast. The full-service hotel offers guests a rich, historical ambiance, with residential style and a dedicated staff to ensure an unparalleled guest experience. The Portola Hotel features 379 coastal inspired guest rooms and suites, ranging from 400 to 1,000 square feet. Portola boasts an expert event planning staff and over 60,000 square feet of meeting space with the adjacent Monterey Conference Center. Home to the Monterey Peninsula’s original craft brewery, Peter B’s Brewpub, The Club Room and Monterey’s newest dining hot spot, Jacks Monterey. The Portola boasts an award-winning 6,000-square-foot day spa. Spa on the Plaza offers beautifully appointed treatment rooms and an extensive spa menu of signature treatments. Overnight guests also have access to the hotel’s spa and fitness facilities, complete with steam room, sauna, outdoor pool and Jacuzzi.

For more information, please visit www.portolahotel.com.

Abadia Retuerta and Bazaar by José Andrés Collaborating on Epicurean Events

November 2, 2019 by evebushman

LOS ANGELES, CA;—In a four-part event from November 13-16, The Bazaar by José Andrés at SLS Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills plays host to legacy Spanish winery and estate Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine. The Bazaar by José Andrés at SLS Beverly Hills has been a destination for unique culinary experiences since its launch in 2008, and now welcomes one of Spain’s most distinctive historic properties for a series of singular events. The traditional Abadia and the contemporary Bazaar represent two sides of the Spanish gastronomical coin, coming together for a series of tastings beginning on November 13 with an invite-only Sommelier Lunch; an invite-only Wine Collector’s Dinner on November 14; and culminating on November 15 and 16 with a ticketed wine pairing menu offered at The Bazaar.

A collaboration between Chef de Cuisine Holly Jivin of The Bazaar and Executive Chef Marc Segarra of Refectorio, the Michelin-starred restaurant at Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine, the ticketed ten-course tasting menu offered on November 15 & 16 will showcase signature dishes from both restaurants, paired with Spanish wines from Abadia Retuerta. Tickets, priced at $150 per person, are available via Tock.

Dishes that will be served throughout the series include Sopa Castellana, a traditional Spanish garlic-laced soup; oysters with a radish and black olive emulsion; sausage with kale and mint; and crayfish with bread and almond soup. Wine pairings will consist of several vintages of Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine Blanco de Guarda, a mature and layered white wine made with 80% sauvignon blanc grapes as well as verdejo and a small amount of godello.

Abadia Retuerta was founded in the 12^th century as the Abbey of Santa Maria de Retuerta, once home to a monastery, and located in the fertile wine region of Sardón de Duero on the left bank of the Duoro River. The original Romanesque and Gothic structures still stand alongside modern additions including sprawling vineyards, a hotel and spa, swimming pool, and Michelin-starred restaurant, making it one of Europe’s most desirable resort wine-tourism destinations.

“From the first moment I stepped foot on the historic property of Abadia Retuerta, I was enchanted by the serene beauty melding old with new,” says Ricardo Gomez, General Manager at The Bazaar. “After months of planning amongst our teams, we’re ecstatic to bring these two renowned Spanish culinary concepts, The Bazaar and Abadia Retuerta’s Refectorio, together to celebrate both our similarities and our differences in a unique set of events at SLS Beverly Hills.”

With an exclusive group of wine collectors and sommeliers gathering to experience the largest tasting ever of Spain’s iconic Abadia Retuerta wines, the winery is embarking on its most ambitious introduction to the U.S market since its founding in 1996.

For more information on the collaborative event series at The Bazaar and to purchase tickets, please visit Tock.

About SLS Hotel, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills

After making a critically acclaimed splash with its 2008 debut, thanks to excellence in hospitality, cuisine, and design, the SLS Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills continues to define modern luxury at the crossroads of Beverly Hills and Los Angeles. Following a multimillion-dollar room renovation and with robust dining options from Culinary Director Chef José Andrés, including two Michelin Guide recognized restaurants⁠—Somni (Two Michelin Stars) and The Bazaar (Michelin Plate) ⁠—as well as three-meal lobby restaurant Tres, in-room dining and the Altitude sixth-story rooftop pool deck, the hotel was recognized by Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards as the “#1 Hotel in the World” in 2019. Additionally, Ciel Spa by Pearl offers a full suite of wellness and salon services and 30,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor function spaces include a ballroom, conference rooms, and Garden Room & Terrace with retractable skylight roof. As part of The Luxury Collection’s portfolio of world renowned hotels and resorts, SLS Beverly hills is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the new name of Marriott’s travel program. Visit www.slsbeverlyhillshotel.com for more information.

About ThinkFoodGroup and José Andrés

Founded by Chef José Andrés and his partner Rob Wilder, ThinkFoodGroup is the creative team responsible for renowned dining concepts in Washington, D.C., Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Texas, the Bahamas, and most recently in Orlando and New York City. The nearly 3 dozen restaurants share a variety of culinary experiences that span from food trucks to world-class tasting menus, including two with two Michelin stars: minibar by José Andrés in Washington, D.C., and Somni at the SLS Beverly Hills.

Twice named one of Time’s “100 Most Influential People” and awarded “Outstanding Chef” and “Humanitarian of the Year” by the James Beard Foundation and recipient of the Worlds 50 Best Icon Award, José Andrés is an internationally-recognized culinary innovator, New York Times bestselling author, educator, television personality, humanitarian and chef and owner of ThinkFoodGroup. For more information, visit www.thinkfoodgroup.com.

About Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine

Dating from 1146, the Abadía Retuerta estate is nestled on 1,730 fertile acres in the heart of Spain’s Duero wine region. It is a unique destination offering a grand travel experience that combines a luxurious hotel with award-winning wines, exceptional gastronomy, an exclusive Spa and an array of unique experiences.

Imbued with the charm and lore of a by-gone age, Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine is among the most highly rated hotels in Europe, taking guests back in time while immersing them in the comforts and luxuries of today’s most savvy hospitality. Acclaimed for its award-winning single terroir wines, Abadía Retuerta winery is among the most advanced in Europe in combining ancient wine-making traditions with cutting-edge technology and sustainability.

Among the amenities and activities: 24-hour butler service, mountain biking and horseback riding on the estate, tours of the winery, helicopter rides to view the ancient landscape from the air, and falconry displays.

The Abadía Retuerta estate is less than a two-hour drive or train ride from Madrid. For further information and reservations: reservations@ledomaine.es; Tel. +34 98 368 0368.

About Refectorio by Marc Segarra

Refectorio, the abbey’s original dining hall with a vaulted Gothic ceiling and a 17th-century fresco, today is a one-Michelin-star sanctuary of haute cuisine. A biodynamic vegetable garden adopting the sustainable techniques and methods used by the abbey’s original monk inhabitants in the 12th century provides organic produce for the estate’s restaurants, including Refectorio.

Cognac Lesson, Tasting and Pairing Too! Oh My!

November 1, 2019 by evebushman

Tickled to have had an opportunity to learn about Cognac from one of my peers in our #LAWineWriters group, Irina Ponomarenko, at our favorite spot in LA for pairings, Napa Valley Grille in Westwood. This was the invite:

This table was special for me as my friends Eric, Terry, Gail, Rebecca, Steve and the one and only Louise joined us for the day!

Join us for a luncheon at Napa Valley Grille with Cognac Educator Irina Ponomarenko. Cognac, the most revered brandy in the world, is an expression of the distinct climate, soils, history and culture of the region where it is grown. We will taste several spirits that illustrate the diversity of Cognac’s terroirs and styles, as well as its versatility in food pairing.

Learning from Irina

Yes, Cognac is a city in France. They produce 10% of the French vineyard area.

The land is mild, no real elevations, by the sea, very green and gets enough rainfall. The key is their limestone-rich soils, known as the “Cognac terroir.”

Regarding the Cognac symbols on the bottle regarding their aging: V.S. (very special) is the youngest blend of at least two years old, V.S.O.P (Very Special Old Pale) is at least four years old, Napoleon is at least six years old and X.O. is 10 years old.

Champagne vs. Cognac Champagne: While the town of Champagne, France, produces Champagne, the word in itself means chalky soil, something Champagne has in common with Cognac. To further clarify, in 2008 Dr. Vinny in Wine Spectator wrote: Cognac is a brandy made mostly from Ugni Blanc grapes. Champagne is made from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier grapes. Cognac is made in a region called Cognac, and Champagne is made in a region called Champagne. But then it gets a little confusing, because there is something called “fine Champagne” Cognac. Within Cognac are six growing regions, including two named Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne. Turns out that “Champagne” is a way to reference “chalky soils” in France, so there are several areas in France that have “Champagne” in their names. So, if a Cognac comes from Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne, it can be called “fine Champagne Cognac.”

We don’t warm cognac in a big snifter anymore. We don’t just enjoy after dinner as a digestif either. Cognac comes in many styles all of which lend themselves to be stored in the freezer and served chilled. Irina explained that unless your home is as cold as a French castle, it’s not room temperature for Cognac. She said the best temperature for serving Cognac is 60-65 degrees.

The Charentaise method for distillation is a double distillation process, using small copper pot stills in comparison with the stills used in Scotland for whisky. Read more here.

The color of the spirit is not a good indication of its age. Color is allowed to be added. In fact the Asian market prefers it more caramel colored and special blends are made for their use.

Three quarters of all V.S. is used in cocktails. Angel’s share (evaporation) is about two percent.

Napa Valley Grille Pairing Menu and Sample Cognacs

Starter/palate cleanser: Kenwood NV “Yalupa” sparkling wine with notes of apple and pear that all enjoyed.

Smoked Salmon Salad (beets, orange and greens)

Camus Ile-de-Re Fine Island Cognac

Loved the smoked salmon with this Cognac that had been grown and matured on the Ile-de-Re Island. While Irina prompted us to find Iodine notes, I did detect some salinity and less sweetness than I would normally have associated with Cognac. This was my first to taste, it also ended up being my favorite in the lineup.

De Luze VSOP, Fine Champagne

Brian Cousins, the GM at Napa Valley Grille, had thought this Cognac would do well with the beets in the salad, and he was right, it also paired nicely with the orange slices. There was a slight sweetness to the Cognac that was slightly amplified by the orange.

Mini Grilled Soft Cheese and Prosciutto (Triple Cream Brie, mushroom)

D’Usse VSOP

The grilled cheese sandwich was a genius pairing for this VSOP Cognac! Who knew? The notes of brown butter, caramel and kernel made the sandwich a little sweeter…and yummier in my opinion.

Pierre Ferrand Reserve Double Cask, Banyuls cask finish, Grande Champagne

This Cognac reminded me of botrytis grapes due to a bit of a honeyed-sweetness, toast, butter and the rich mouthfeel.

Duck rillettes with plum jam on sourdough crostini (I wasn’t a fan of the gamey fatty dish but many loved it and felt it was an inspired pairing for Cognac.)

Hine Homage to Thomas Hine, Grande Champagne

This Cognac had been matured in Bristol, England, and had notes of orange zest, other citrus, a long finish and almost like a scotch whisky to me. Excellent just to sip.

Deau XO

This was my second favorite Cognac in the tasting with notes of honey, orange and spice.

Pork loin, house made Mole sauce, chickpea salsa, cilantro

Camus Borderies XO

I believe that this course was everyone’s favorite; from the flavorful mole sauce down to the pork, our plates were cleaned. The Cognac had notes of leather, dried citrus, honey, botrytis and cream with a huge mouthfeel – both sweet and creamy.

Flourless chocolate cake

Courvoisier Napoleon, Fine Champagne, 1980s bottling

Notes of orange, citrus, cream and caramel on the nose and on the palate. Irina said this Cognac was the “Quintessential after dinner drink” and one guest commented that the drink “is the dessert.” I was happy for both. An excellent finish – chocolate + Cognac – to an excellent lesson and pairing.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Clink Different: French and German Wines at Napa Valley Grille? Only for this October!

October 18, 2019 by evebushman

Brian Cousins, General Manager of Napa Valley Grille in Westwood, recently treated my #LAWineWriters group to a wine pairing luncheon with a selection of French and German Wines represented by Clink Different. Of the featured wines we were to have Sparkling, Rosé, Riesling, Semillon, Pinot Noir and Bordeaux. Of the meal, we were to also have no less than five courses prepared by Executive Chef Kenny Spost. (Napa Valley Grille does a monthly promotion, so head there before the end of October to try these wines!)

Cousins has been our host for numerous luncheons, where our organizer Cori Solomon usually brings in a winemaker. I was happy to support his own wine program, and taste through wines he wanted our opinions on. Later that evening he would repeat the tasting for clients of the restaurant.

In the course of our discussion Cousins shared that the wines were not ones we would find in stores and were an “expression of what (he) tasted and liked” providing the restaurant with a “world’s list” of imports. Of our menu he said that there were many new items we were trying that were being offered for both lunch and dinner, including more selections for vegetarian and vegan diners – at least six new dishes. Cousins said that between the new imported wines on their list, and the new menu items, Napa Valley Grille seeks to be “in the conversation” with other innovative restaurants – I believe they already are. (Photos of the food and wine can be seen on my public Facebook post here.)

The menu (below) and tasting notes were provided, so I limited my commentary on how I liked the wine and how well I felt it paired with the menu, noted with an EB at the end of each course/wine descriptions:

Pairing Menu

1st Course
Oyster with Chipotle Herb Butter.

2016 Scharzhofberger Riesling sparkling wine brut, Saar

Fine citrus and grapefruit aromas, concise animating mineral, racy acidity, fine yeasty notes and elegant perlage.

EB: Chef Spost had made his own chipotle sauce with shallots, parsley, butter = I loved the savory qualities of this dish. The wine was so different for me, I noted a fresh apple cider and yeast that was a nice complement to the oyster.

2nd Course

Fruit Salad

mixed greens, frisée, toasted turmeric pepitas, pears, raspberries,

bubu arare, vanilla bean vinaigrette.

2018 Villa Wolf Pinot Noir Rosé, Pfalz

a true rosé, made with a brief maceration before pressing to extract color. It is light and refreshing, with deliciously bright berry and fruit flavors and a clean, zippy finish.

2017 Franz Keller Vom Löss Pinot Gris, Baden

concentrated grapefruit and lemon flavors that leave a pleasant murmur of citrus zest on midpalate. It finishes on lingering notes of crushed mineral and volcanic ash.

EB: Many of the LA Wine Writers commented that this was the best “fruit salad” they ever had. I loved the vanilla bean in the dressing and the toasted pepitas – crunchy, nutty, sweet and vinegar all working together well. I enjoyed both of the German wines; the Pinot Noir (bright raspberry with a very balanced acidity) and Pinot Gris (apple, perfumy, crisp).

3rd Course

Turmeric-Crusted Tuna

orange-ginger-soy reduction, shaved fennel, black sesame seeds, taro root chips.

2017 Clos des Lunes Lune d’Argent. Sauternes, Bordeaux

70% Sémillon and 30% Sauvignon Blanc. Featuring a mix of pear, tangerine, yellow and green apple flavors, lined with light honeysuckle and fennel hints. Creamy along the edges, and pure and vibrant through the middle.

2017 Scheferkorf Sylvaner, Franken, Germany

Brisk aromas of tangerine and quince gain ripeness and concentration on the palate of this dry but honeyed Silvaner. It’s an easy-drinking, juicy wine with ample yellow-peach flavor and just a hint of mineral complexity.

EB: I was in love with this flavorful tuna, especially with the soy reduction. The Sauterne was drier and less sweet than the usual dessert wine, with creamy apple notes. The Sylvaner, from Germany, had a light but round mouthfeel and lovely peach notes.

4th Course

Colorado Lamb Rack

corn polenta, mint-pomegranate reduction.

2016 August Kesseler, The Daily August, Pinot Noir, Rheingau

Hints of beetroot, black cherry and earth extend from nose to palate in this lusciously ripened Pinot Noir. Full bodied and supple in mouthfeel, it’s fringed by fine, smooth tannins and just a hint of astringency on the finish.

2017 Chateau St Sulpice, Bordeaux Superiore

70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc

In the nose plum, red cherry, menthol, dried herbs, baking spice and oak. On the palate plum, red cherry and baking spice followed by dried herbs and a cedar finish.

2016 Franz Keller Pinot Noir, Baden

The nose suggests whiffs of cherry blossom, graphite, plum and smoke. Black cherry and berry flavors seem delicate initially, but amass concentration and complexity with aeration, building layers of savory earth and tannin.

EB: A lot going on here but let me just start with the Colorado lamb – yes it’s gamier than what you might be used to, but with that it’s also earthier, so having a flavorful meat was perfect for me. Of the three wines I appreciated the Bordeaux but my palate, for a change, leaned toward the two German Pinots, “The Daily August” especially as it had nice dark cherry and what Cousins referred to as a “herbaceous” quality.

5th Course

Australian Wagyu NY Strip Steak

10 oz, green peppercorn-cognac jus.

2010 Goulée by Cos d’Estournel, Medoc

On the nose aromatic ripe cherries, tobacco, coffee and minerals. On the palate rich and full bodied with velvety tannins and a long finish.

EB: Thank you for this course. The meat was cooked perfectly – pan seared with brown butter – and I thoroughly enjoyed it with the Bordeaux, that was all barnyard aromas at first but blew off to reveal nice dark fruit and a slightly sweet finish.

Dessert Course

Chateau Grand Jauga Sauternes, 2015

A lovely mix of aromas and flavors including apricot, honeysuckle, and juicy citrus, plus a streak of minerality. Gracefully balances honeyed sweetness against acidity, and finishes with appealing intensity and length.

EB: This is my idea of dessert after such a filling meal, just bring on one small taste of a luscious dessert wine. This one provided a sweet pineapple, Meyer lemon and a lingering fresh fruit cocktail finish.

Napa Valley Grille

1100 Glendon Avenue, #100

Los Angeles, CA 90024

310-824-3322

https://napavalleygrille.com/our-chef/

https://napavalleygrille.com/

https://www.instagram.com/napavalleygrille/

https://www.facebook.com/NapaValleyGrilleWestwood/

Travaglini Gattinara – Nebbiolo in Northern Piedmont – at Angelini Osteria

September 20, 2019 by evebushman

Recently at Angelini Osteria a group of wine writers were invited to an intimate wine tasting and luncheon hosted by Cinzia Travaglini, owner of Travaglini Winery, and her daughter Alessia Collauto Travaglini. Cinzia and Alessia belong to the third and fourth generation of the Travaglini family – a renowned producer of traditional, limited production wines made in the tiny appellation of Gattinara in northern Italy’s esteemed Piedmont region.

Cinzia and Alessia will share their full U.S. range alongside a carefully designed menu, including current releases of Gattinara and Gattinara Riserva, as well as, Tre Vigne – a blend of Nebbiolo grapes from three historic vineyard sites made only in the best vintages, and Il Sogno – a unique appassimento wine, together with a few special, older vintages.

Wine and Tasting

So excited to taste the portfolio of “one of Italy’s most recognizable wines and the #1 selling Gattinara in the world.” The first thing that struck me, besides meeting the amazing mother-daughter team and before my first taste of anything was the shape of the bottles. Misshapen, like a Chateauneuf Du Pape, but with a slightly rounded front, flat back and sides, except for one notch that holds the thumb perfectly for pouring. We later learned that they designed the bottle in 1958 with the idea of both a decanter shape and one that catches sediment. No other winery has adopted their design.

Cinzia talked about the volcanic soil in the Gattinara area, its proximity to the Alps, “more fresh” weather and how each of these elements contributes to the elegance in the wine. She said it was easy to drink with all foods – which we would soon learn for ourselves.

Alessia explained that her grandfather planted vineyards in the 1920s, with a focus on quality over quantity. They produce 20 thousand cases per year.

Nebole 2013 – aromas and flavors separated by ;

We were greeted with a taste of their sparkling wine that was made from 100% Nebbiolo – as were all of the wines we were to taste – that had been vinified into a white wine. Lemon zest, talcum powder, white flower; bruised yellow apple, sawdust, lively with medium acid.

Nebbiolo Coste Della Sesia DOC 2017

Aged four months in stainless steel followed by 10 months in Slovenian oak. Can be drunk after 2 years or 40. Rose petal, stewed tomatoes, dry earth; dry red fruit, tannic, oak and a long finish.

Gattinara DOCG 2015

After stainless steel fermentation the wine underwent two years on Slovenian oak casks of different sizes. Earth, spice, dried red cherries, tree bark, barnyard; small red berries, dry, tobacco.

Gattinara Tre Vigne DOCG 2013

Three vineyard blend, aged four years in Slovenian oak after initial time in stainless. However, for that last fourth year, 20% is aged in barrique. The wine is later blended together and then rests for an additional 10 months in bottle. Earth, grilled mushroom, incense, crushed red fruit; got that same red fruit and mushroom on the palate, gritty, dry with a long finish.

Gattinara Riserva DOCG 2013

35-60 year old estate vines, aged three years in different sized barrels of Slovenian oak, then rests in bottle for an additional year. Floral, aromatic, milk chocolate; spice, red fruit and bright.

Gattinara Riserva DOCG 2009

These last three wines may have been my favorites of the tasting. This one, a 2009 and the 2006 that follows, definitely surprised me and I commented to Cinzia how remarkably different the aromas and flavors were between the older wines and their younger siblings. I also learned from Cinzia – after I mentioned this – that these two were “considered great vintages.” 35-60 YO vines, three years in Slovenian oak and one year in bottle. Plum, bark, dark chocolate, brown sugar; layered dark fruit, tobacco, dusty and lingering.

Gattinara Tre Vigne DOCG 2006

The second “great vintage” wine came from three different estate vineyards, four years in Slovenian oak, 20% held back in barrique for the final year, then blended back in with the rest of the wine and rests in bottle for 10 months. Blueberry, blackberry, perfumy, toasted wood; plums, slightly sweet with a beautiful balance of dusty fruits and tannins.

Il Sogno 2014

100 days of drying out leaving only 50% of the water in the grapes, 40 months in Slovenian oak, in bottle for 10 months rest. The highest % of alcohol in the line-up with 15.5. Fleshy red fruit, stems, earth, mint; slightly sweet, chocolate covered black cherry, easy to drink with lots of lovely berries and tannin.

The Menu

There was no specific pairing for the foods and the wine. We had three wines per course, per se, to try. I found that the younger lighter wines were perfect with the tomato and cheese course and the Branzino, while the older reds were outstanding with the lasagna and steak. I had to agree with Cinzia, the wines paired well with all types of foods. This is the full menu:

FIRST COURSE

Insalata Caprese, Market Tomatoes, Fresh Burrata, Aged Balsamic, Basil. (Healthy portion of cheese and we all inhaled this dish.)

SECOND COURSE

Pasta Duo: Bombolotti all Norma, Eggplant, Tomato, Basil, Dried Ricotta.

Lasagna Verde “Omaggio Nonna Elvira”, Beef and Veal Ragu.

(This was truly to die for. As I’m writing this I’ve just finished the leftovers they packed up for me. I will never want plain lasagna again.)

THIRD COURSE

Choice of: Grilled Branzino Filet, Chopped Tomatoes, Sautéed Mixed Vegetables.

Grilled Organic Chicken, Roasted Potatoes, Spinach.

Grilled Hanger Steak, Arugula, Shaved Parmigiano Reggiano.

(I shared the fish and steak with a couple of other people but missed out on the chicken. The fish was so delicate and so wonderful with the younger reds as I stated earlier, and the steak was delectable with the older reds. I linger over this in my mind now…)

PER FINIRE

Selection of Cheeses.

Housemade Biscotti.

(I had to skedaddle on the road so I missed this finale. I saw photos and heard from other writers in attendance that both the cheeses and the desserts were incredible.)

Photos of the food and wine here.

About Travaglini

Driven by a passion for exceptional Nebbiolo, the Travaglini family has been producing remarkable, limited- production wines in Gattinara for four generations. The Travaglini family has owned land in Gattinara since the beginning of the 19th century. The family’s winemaking tradition started with Clemente Travaglini, who was succeeded by his son Arturo, however, it was not until 1958 when Arturo’s son, Giancarlo, took the helm that the Travaglini Estate Winery was established as it exists today.

Today, the Travaglini family owns 146 acres of vineyards, 128 of which are dedicated to vines, primarily Nebbiolo, covering roughly 50% of total vineyards within the Gattinara DOCG. This small appellation lies in the rocky foothills of the Monte Rosa range, where ventilating winds blow down from the nearby Alps. Soils are rocky and rich in porphyry, granite and iron. Similar in composition to the Alps, Monte Rosa’s sedimentary rock is highly acidic, due to low levels of calcium carbonate and magnesium, and an absence of calcium. Vines grown in this rare soil produce grapes with a unique flavor profile, high acidity and firm tannins. The finished wines offer refreshing acidity, soft tannins, minerality and complexity.

https://www.travaglinigattinara.it/en/winery/

About Angelini Osteria

Gino Angelini has become known as simply everyone’s favorite Italian chef in Los Angeles, winning over the city with his authentic dishes. The Angelini brand has evolved into three divisions: dining, catering and products.

In 2001, Gino Angelini and his wife Elizabeth opened Angelini Osteria, an Italian restaurant in Los Angeles. Since opening, Angelini Osteria has become one of LA’s most celebrated restaurants. The Osteria has blazed the trail for many Italian dishes in Los Angeles, including its famous Linguine Sea Urchin and the sought after Spaghetti Norcina. To this day the Osteria remains family owned and controlled.

The Angelini’s partnered with 17-year veteran employee, Girolamo Rindone, to open a classic Italian bar, Angelini Alimentari. Angelini Alimentari is a gourmet fast-casual dining concept featuring light California-Italian inspired breakfast, lunch and dinner fare with an focus on pickup and delivery.

https://www.angelinirestaurantgroup.com/angelini-osteria