Pretty much all I need to say is "Wow". Another stunning Michael Vilim event.
We were greeted by Trevor Jones and a glass (or two or three) of his fine chardonnay.
We then wandered about meeting the other winemakers in attendance who were all super friendly and personable. I quickly pointed out some chick to my wife who I noticed immediately 'cause she was drinking a Shiner bock at an Aussie wine dinner. Whatever, I thought. I quickly learned the female in question was Sarah Marquis so I guess she wanted to try a popular local brew. She's probably tired of that Aussie swill anyways.
Whilst we did the "meet and greet" thing the crispy lobster rolls were distributed. These things were just sinful. About this time our fellow forumite Joe, aka Chicago Wine Geek showed up. I don't know where this dude puts 'em but those little lobster rolls would've been well advised to run like hell when Joe showed up. hehe.
We were then seated. Winemakers were seated with most of the tables. Our guest was Robin Moody of Cape d'Estaing winery. He was a very interesting and entertaining gentleman who provided much insightful conversation.
Here is a brief recap of the food and wines served and my brief thoughts on the wines: I did not take any notes and I think most wines are in the $15-$30 range. I seem to remember the muscat was considerably more however.
Crispy Lobster Rolls with Papaya and Lemon
2002 Trevor Jones Virgin Chardonnay (So. Australia)
This was a tasty chardonnay which had a hint of oak and varied tropical flavors. A very smooth and creamy finish. 88 pts. Seared Peppered Ahi Tuna with Olive Bread Salad Nicoise
2002 Marquis-Phillips S2 Cabernet Sauvignon (So. Australia)
This one had a great nose and an initial taste of chocolate on the palate. When (if)the taste catches up to the nose it will be much better. 87 pts. Crispy Duck with Pasilla-Blackberry Sauce,
Corn Pudding and Dried Fruit-Toasted Almond Picadillo
2002 Dutschke Willow Bend Merlot/Shiraz/Cabernet (Barossa Valley)
Wayne Dutschke clarified that we would be drinking the 2001 since the '02 was still in barrels.
This was my WOTN. It was surprisingly well integrated with just enough fruit and a lengthy and satifying finish. I wanted more and was either denied or forgotten. 90 pts. And the crispy duck was my entree of the night as well. Marinated and Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine, Fresh Herbs and
a 5 year Aged Gouda Cheese Butter
2001 Cape d"Estaing Shiraz (Kangaroo Island)
Text book Aussie Shiraz here. A very refined wine. At first I almost questioned this pairing - I'm glad I didn't do so out loud. It was wonderful and we were treated to a second bottle. Maybe it helped to have the winemaker seated at the table. 89 pts. Dessert
Allspice Pumpkin Cheesecake with Pepita Brittle
(NV) Dutsche "The Muscat" (Barossa Valley)
Surprise of the night. This drank almost like a tawny port. It was delicious and I don't like sweet/dessert wines. I usually give these away to someone at these wine dinners but I knocked this one out. 90 pts.At this point we (Joe) traded Robin for Sarah (no offense to Robin but she IS much better looking) and Robins wife and the wine talk continued.
All for now.
peace.
Oh we also got these really neat-o toothbrushes with the Grateful Palate logo which sported purple bristles. I thought it was a nice touch.
