"A Moveable Feast" with Napa's Truchard Family!

Cheers!

We're back from California and a journey packed with many memorable vinous experiences!

While there's many new discoveries and things I look forward to sharing with you, I'd first like to tell you about an amazing evening spent among the vineyards in Carneros with one of Napa's pioneering wine families. Our friends Monty & Sara Preiser kindly invited us to "A Moveable Feast" at Truchard Vineyards. The evening was part of an auction package they'd purchased at the 2012 Boca Bacchanal, an event Steve and I chaired. We were honored and delighted that they included us.

While looking forward to the evening, we really had no idea of the adventure in store for us! This actually turned out to be the first time the Truchards had done this particular format of dinner, which made it that much more special.

Upon arriving at Truchard Vineyards we were greeted with a lovely reception featuring sparkling wine from Domaine Carneros and delicious passed hors d'oeuvres. Our resident hosts were Dr. Tony and Jo Ann Truchard, patriarch and matriarch of this wonderful family which has played a significant part of Carneros history since the 1970's. Also representing the Truchard family was son Anthony and his lovely wife Suzanne. The Preiser's son Justin and daughter-in-law Stacy were also in attendance and celebrating Stacy's birthday which further contributed to the festive feel of the evening. It was a cool, clear beautiful night and the setting was charming, enhanced not only by the Truchard family pet cats but also their adorable pet goat Rocky. Soon after making everyone's acquaintance and sipping and savoring the welcoming offerings, Anthony Truchard revealed the master plan for the evening. Before long we were being whisked up winding vineyard roads in a convoy of SUV's to our first "course" - it was a "Moveable Feast" after all!

Dr. Tony & Jo Ann Truchard

Steve and I were very fortunate to ride with Jo Ann Truchard behind the wheel, and with the golden, wine country sun making its descent on the horizon, we got to hear firsthand how the Truchards, Texans prior to moving to California, happened into the wine business. "I slipped on a grape at the grocery store and broke my leg when I was nine months pregnant with my second child!" Jo Anne said. "Tony [an Army physician] was supposed to ship out to Korea but he couldn't leave after that. I gave birth a few days later with a full cast on my leg." Instead of going to Korea, they ended up stationed in Herlong, California and eventually purchased their first 21-acre plot of land in Carneros. Soon after they realized growing grapes was going to be much more than just a weekend project! Since then, Truchard Vineyards has grown to 400 contiguous acres and is one of Napa's most diverse estates growing 10 different grape varieties. The family keeps only 20% of their fruit to make their estate wines, and sells the other 80% to 20 of Napa's most well-respected producers. Listening to Jo Ann talk about her family's history in this very special part of the world was certainly a treat for us as her passion was clearly evident.

Scallop & Spot Prawn Salad with Vanilla Essence

Soon the convoy was parking and we were delighted to hear our first stop was among the Roussanne vines. Roussanne is a white grape variety primarily grown in France's Rhone Valley yet does remarkably well on the Truchard land as well. As we disembarked we could see a clearing in the vineyard set with lovely high top tables. The view of the rolling hills in the distance, the Roussanne grapes hanging on the vine, and the sun in the distance was truly breathtaking. The "Roussanne Vineyard Course" featured a delicious Scallop and Spot Prawn Salad with Vanilla Citrus Essence which paired beautifully with the 2010 Truchard Vineyards Roussanne. It was a magnificent start to our feast!

Anthony Truchard

Our next stop took us through even more scenic, winding roads to a clearing in the vines overlooking more beautiful vineyards and Boot Lake, so named for its shape. As we emerged from the trucks, we were guided to a beautiful table decorated with assorted squash and gourds from the Truchard's garden. While enjoying the fabulous company and a picture-perfect Carneros sunset we enjoyed two more delicious courses. "Pork and Pinot" featured Pork Three Ways served with Rancho Gordo White Beans and Salsa Verde that paired beautifully with the 2009 Truchard Vineyards Pinot Noir in addition to some other special bottles the Truchards had brought. This dish was also accompanied by freshly baked bread served with the Truchard Vineyards Extra Virgin Olive Oil made from olives grown on their property as well (Martha Stewart has nothing on the Truchards!). Next was the "Lamb and Cabernet Sauvignon" course featuring perfectly charred, juicy Dixon Spring Lamb Chops with Caramelized Garden Beets, Black Olive Sauce and Blood Orange Extra Virgin Olive Oil. This dish made my husband Steve particularly happy and the lamb paired famously with the 2008 Truchard Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon. I have to mention the amazing food for the evening was prepared in sight by the fabulous folks at Smoke Open Fire -  truly extraordinary!

Once the sun had set and the crescent moon made its appearance in the sky it was time to head back to the estate. Our evening wasn't over yet though - far from it in fact! Back at the estate we were guided into the impressive Truchard wine caves where another beautiful table awaited with our dessert course. A selection of delicious Northern California Cheeses, fabulous handmade cookies, and decadent chocolate strawberries were served with the 2007 Truchard Vineyards Roussanne Botrytis and French Press Coffee. Needless to say all in attendance were sufficiently satiated and awed not only by the wonderful and unique experience but also by the charm and graciousness of the Truchard family. I also have to give a special mention to Linda Carr who has been with the Truchards since 1998. Linda played an intrinsic role in the planning and execution of our evening and I just had to sincerely applaud her efforts.

Monty & Sara Preiser

Following dessert the Truchards fired up the traditional Texas fire pit and invited the Preisers to make some selections from the family's wine library. As we enjoyed the warmth of the fire and lovely aromatics of the burning Eucalyptus wood we enjoyed some more very special wines that had, like this amazing family, thrived with the passing of time.

A big thank you to Monty and Sara Preiser for including us in such a special evening and to the Truchard family for their gracious hospitality!

Cheers,

Weekly Wine Pick: 2010 Gary Farrell Sauvignon Blanc Redwood Ranch!

This week's wine pick hails from California's Sonoma County, home to many a world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The 2010 Gary Farrell Sauvignon Blanc Redwood Ranch is neither, yet represents a delightful choice for the steamy days of Summer at a more affordable price.

The pioneering Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery is best known for producing single vineyard Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs from the Russian River Valley but has also created this lovely expression of the Sauvignon Blanc grape. The fruit for this wine is sourced from Redwood Ranch located at the extreme southern end of the Alexander Valley. The Redwood Ranch has been producing exceptional fruit for the past five decades and growers Jim and Gayle Reed are committed to implementing sustainable winegrowing methods to ensure that tradition continues.

This 100% Sauvignon Blanc has a lovely pale straw hue with alluring aromas of citrus, peach and a hint of vanilla. On the palate flavors of juicy citrus, white peach, grass and a refreshing acidity make it very hard to put this wine down! This is a delicious wine for Summer and, with a kiss of oak, it has more complexity than your everyday Sauvignon Blanc. While it's perfect for enjoying on its own, it will also pair beautifully with the bright, fresh flavors of Summer including salads, grilled chicken and especially shellfish!

Grapes: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol: 14.1%

Cases Produced: 1,563
MSRP: $25
Food Pairing: Shellfish, salads, grilled chicken or nothing at all!
Perfect for: A Summertime al fresco lunch or dinner
Where to find it: www.garyfarrellwinery.com

Cheers,

 

New Year, New You - Part 1: Three Wines to Try in 2012!

Well, my Fabulous Foodie Friends, 2012 is off and running and if you're looking to make some changes in your food and wine routine, The Glamorous Gourmet has got you covered! Whether it's breaking out of your ho-hum wine routine, experimenting with healthy new ingredients, or possibly finding a career in the wine world I've got some creative suggestions and fabulous interviews that I'm very excited to share with you this month. I hope you enjoy January's focus on new food and wine discoveries in the new year.

Before reaching for the same bottle of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, remember what Newt Gingrich will probably tell you, "variety is the spice of life!" Here are three fabulous grapes you need to know in 2012:

If you are a fan of Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris or even unoaked Chardonnay, give Argentina's signature grape Torrontés a try. Torrontés produces white wines that are fresh, aromatic and brimming with notes of citrus, apricot and peach. This grape thrives in the arid climate of Argentina, especially in vineyards located at altitudes of over 5,250 feet. There are actually three varieties of the Torrontés grape (Torrontés Riojano, Torrontés  Sanjuanino and Torrontés Mendocino) however, Torrontés Riojano is the highest quality and most widely planted. This is a great wine for sipping on its own, yet is very versatile and pairs nicely with a variety of dishes.

Wine Pick: 2011 Recuerdo Torrontés, $15

If you prefer lighter-bodied red wines, give the Gamay grape a whirl. While grown in other areas of the world, Gamay is probably best know for its history in France's Burgundy wine region where it is used to produce Beaujolais, a light, fruity red wine made primarily using the carbonic maceration method. Instead of reaching for that bottle of Beajolais Nouveau however, try one of the region's cru offerings which are noted for their distinctive style and quality. Keep an eye out for bottles bearing the name of one of the ten Cru Beajolais communes including Saint-Amour, Juliénas, Chénas, Moulin-à-vent, Fleurie, Chiroubles, Morgon, Régnié, Brouilly and Côtes de Brouilly. 

Wine Pick: 2010 Georges Dubouef Morgon Jean Descombes, $15

If you enjoy medium to fuller-bodied reds like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, give Mourvèdre a try. This international grape variety can be found around the globe answering to aliases such as Monastrell (Spain) and Mataro (Australia). Mourvèdre is a late-ripening variety that does best in warm climates where it produces wines with big tannins, high alcohol and flavors of red fruit, mocha, earth and game. Originally from Spain, Mourvèdre found success in France's Rhone Valley where it is a primary component of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. It has also been grown in California for over a century where it is currently gaining popularity as a varietal wine.

Wine Pick: 2010 Cline Cellars Ancient Vines Mourvèdre, $20

So stop reading and start drinking already! I hope you enjoy these three new wines to try in 2012. As always, I'd love to hear what you think of them.

Cheers,

Merry Christmas & "The Wine Lovers Twelve Days of Christmas!"

My husband Steve and I wanted to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas! May your day be filled with fabulous family, friends, food and wine. I also wanted to share with you "The Wine Lovers Twelve Days of Christmas," an alternate and fun version of this Christmas classic. I first saw it on a tea towel I found at Sur La Table - gotta love that store!

"A Wine Lover's Twelve Days of Christmas"

1. A Pinot Noir in a Pear Tree

2. Two Toasting Friends

3. Three French Blends

4. Four Hearty Cabernets

5. Five Sparkling Wines

6. Six Corkscrews Turning

7. Seven Sommeliers Serving

8. Eight Charming Chardonnays

9. Nine Vines a-Winding

10. Ten Snobs Sniffing

11. Eleven Casks a-Corking

12. Twelve Fabulous Toasts

Tonight, after my sister cooks a wonderful Christmas feast, my family will be singing the original version of the "Twelve Days of Christmas" after we each draw a "day" out of a hat. We then have to put our signature spin on our "day" - believe me, there's alot of pressure on whoever gets "Five Golden Rings!" It usually gets pretty creative, especially after a few glasses of wine. Do you have any fun, family traditions you enjoy over the holidays? Cheers to a magical day!

Wine Pairing Principles for Thanksgiving and Beyond!

Holidays like Thanksgiving can sometimes cause an acute case of WPP otherwise known as wine pairing paralysis. With the cacophony of flavors and textures involved in a meal whose primary goal is to stuff oneself until bursting, what wine could possibly (1) complement the meal (2) appeal to a variety of palates and (3) not break the bank? Don’t fret, my fellow wine lovers, here are a few tips to help make the process a little easier for Thanksgiving or any other holiday meal.

When presented with dishes such as roasted turkey, caramelized onion and cornbread stuffing, cranberry compote, sweet potato casserole and Brussels sprouts at the same meal, the best wines to select (and guests too I might add) are those that “play nicely with others.” Choose wines that are fruit-forward with a food-friendly acidity that will not only stimulate your taste buds but “do no harm” to your already flavor filled meal. Hold off on tannic Cabernet Sauvignons or heavily oaked Chardonnays and opt instead for lighter style Rieslings, unoaked Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Merlot.

The same principles apply when trying to satisfy a variety of palates at your holiday gathering. Avoiding wines with harsh tannins and heavy oak influence is usually a good game plan. Select a fruity, approachable Cru Beaujolais or crisp, bubbly Spanish Cava to appease your guests. While universally appealing, these wines will also complement the flavors in your meal beautifully.

Thirdly, we all know holidays like Thanksgiving can involve feeding a small army of family and friends; however, finding an appropriate wine to serve doesn’t have to break the bank. Choose wines from regions known for producing great values at reasonable prices including Spain’s La Rioja, Chile’s Central Valley and France’s Beaujolais AOC to name a few. Save your Classified Growth Bordeaux and California cult collectibles for another occasion! Stock up on your favorite value wines and have them on hand when guests drop by for some “holiday cheer.”

Use the above principles to eliminate your wine pairing paralysis and get you through any holiday meal in style. Here are a few recommendations to get you started – Cheers and have a fabulous Thanksgiving Holiday!


1. J Vineyards “Cuvée 20” Brut Sparkling Wine NV $20
2. Dr. Heidemanns-Bergweiler Riesling QbA Mosel 2009 $12
3. Castillo de Molina Chardonnay Reserva, Casablanca Valley 2009 $15
4. Bodegas Faustino VII Rioja 2007 $12
5. Louis Jadot Moulin-à-Vent Château des Jacques 2009 $18
6. Viña San Pedro 1865 Single Vineyard Syrah 2007 $25

Bon Appétit,
 

Super Bowl Sunday Menu - New Orleans Style!

This Sunday, Superbowl XLIV (that's 44) will be played right here at Sun Life Stadium in Miami, FL. I had to double check the current name of the stadium with my husband Steve since it changes about as often as Tiger changes girlfriends (well maybe not THAT often)! Land Shark Stadium, Dolphin Stadium, Pro Player Stadium, Joe Robbie Stadium – how’s a girl to keep up?

This year’s contenders for the NFL Championship are the Indianapolis Colts and the New Orleans Saints. After doing a little research, it appears the Saints are the sentimental favorites in this year’s game. Not only as a result of the way the city has rebuilt following the ravages of Hurricane Katrina, but also because they have never, in the history of football, been to a Superbowl! Who knew? Now, I am not the biggest football fan (I, too, have never been to a Superbowl) but I am a sucker for an underdog AND some fabulous New Orleans-style food! Fortunately, "Savor the Moment" is chock-full of recipes to create a fabulous, New Orleans-style Super Bowl menu, .

New Orleans-Style Super Bowl Menu:
Alligator Eye Dip (pg. 54) – made with black eyed peas, no need to panic!
Game Day Muffalettas (pg. 139) – piled high with ham, turkey, salami and provolone cheese what’s not to love?
Sausage and Chicken Jambalaya (pg. 169) OR White Chicken Chili (pg. 120) – read my blogs about these two recipes and good luck choosing one. Might as well make both!
Praline Bananas Foster (pg. 237) – OMG your guests will never leave!

As for what wine to drink on the big day, ideally, you want something versatile that can pair with a variety of dishes and flavors. A sparkling wine would be fabulous (isn’t it always?) whether it’s Prosecco (Italy), Cava (Spain) or Champagne (France), and there are lots of great options at a variety of price points. Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris would also be great choices and would pair nicely with the dip on our menu. For reds, try an American or New Zealand Pinot Noir or an Australian Shiraz or Shiraz-based blend to pair with the Jambalaya and the Muffalettas. If you opt to make the White Chicken Chili though, I think you have to go with beer. Stick with the same beer you use in the recipe, I made it with a Corona and it was delicious!

Now, please don’t get the wrong idea. It's not that I'm against the Colts - I actually think Peyton Manning, in addition to being a fabulous football player, is pretty funny too. I had to include one of my all-time favorite Saturday Night Live clips that features Peyton spending some time postively influencing children in a youth program. I hope you enjoy the clip as well as your Super Bowl Sunday. Also, to fans of the winning team, don't forget to savor the moment! Cheers!

Perfect for Pinot: Pork with Cherry Sauce

It’s Wednesday night and Pork with Cherry Sauce (pg. 166) is on the menu. Doesn’t it just sound like a perfect dish for Fall? Bone-in, pork loin chops with a delicious sauce of balsamic vinegar and cherries – yummy! Even though we are still struggling with 90 degree temperatures I decided to forge ahead and make it anyway.
While the recipe sounded a little daunting at first, it’s actually pretty easy. The only things I needed to pick up at the store were the pork chops and dried cherries – love that! In fact, you probably have all the other required ingredients in your pantry right now: balsamic vinegar, olive oil and chicken broth. This recipe does take slightly longer to make than some of the others I've made because you need to remove the bones from the chops and use them to make the base for the sauce. The results are definitely worth the effort though. My only issue regarding the prep for the chops is, when removing the bones, I was left with 2 pieces of meat – the bigger, longer piece and the smaller, round piece. I didn’t see any way to keep the two pieces intact and was just a little perplexed as to how to serve it. It would definitely not prevent me from making it again, however. I kept the meal on the lighter side by serving it with haricorts verts – those lovely, French green beans and the two went beautifully together. A simple, elegant weeknight meal!
As for the beverage, this dish just begs for a Pinot Noir with lots of ripe, cherry flavors. It makes my mouth water just thinking about it! A New World Pinot would generally be a better choice than an Old World one like a Burgundy. New World wines are generally more “fruit forward,” meaning the flavors of the fruit are more pronounced and readily perceptible which might be more desirable with the pork and cherry sauce. A New Zealand Pinot Noir would be a great choice and a good value as well. If you wanted to kick it up a notch, try one from the Sonoma Coast appellation in California or the Willamette Valley in Oregon. These two areas are very well known for their Pinots and the wines may be a bit more pricey, not to say good deals can’t be found however. I’d love to hear about your favorite selections as well – let me know!
We attended an "Industry Style" wine tasting this weekend at 32 East here in Delray Beach and there were many delicious Pinot Noirs to choose from: think “kid” and “candy store”! A few favorite Pinot Noirs in particular included the Talley Arroyo Grande Valley, the David Bruce Russian River Valley and the Martinelli Belle Vigna. Definitely worth seeking out! So pick a perfect Pinot and put the Pork with Cherry Sauce on the calendar this week. You will not be disappointed!