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Friday Night Wine Tastings

Every Friday night starting at 5:00 p.m.
Come enjoy a selection of current releases
and library selections from our cellar.

SOME PAST EVENTS INCLUDE:

March 19, 2010 - Wines of Burgundy III

The month of March continues our popular Burgundy Dinner series.
We will be pouring the wines of Domaine de L'Arlot, Domaine Leflaive,
and Louis Carillon to name a few. Our Executive Chef Isaac Miller
will be preparing a five course meal to accompany the great
Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs from the Burgundy region of France.
Don't miss a chance to try some of these gems from our cellar.
- 5 courses - $155

February 26, 2010 - An Evening of Tasting
with the Wines of Destiny Bay

Please join us for an evening of passed hors d'oeuvres with the incredible wines of Destiny Bay. Destiny Bay is a single-vineyard estate located in a small, north-facing valley on Waiheke Island, New Zealand. Established in 2000, vines of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot are planted on steep slopes of Waiheke's cracking clay soils. The amphitheater shape of the vineyard provides natural drainage and shelter while it captures and retains the sun's warmth this terroir allows Destiny Bay to produce rich, full-bodied and distinctive blends that stand up against the finest wines from Bordeaux and California. Destiny Bay wines are found on the wine lists of fine restaurants in San Francisco, Chicago, Las Vegas and Auckland and in the private cellars of discriminating collectors. Destiny Bay is a fully accredited "Sustainable Vineyard" and emphasizes old world traditions, new world techniques, and a timeless passion for excellence.

Only 150 cases of Magna Praemia are produced per year. A limited amount of this wine will be available for purchase at the event. We hope to see you there!

This event will be open from 5:30pm-7:00pm
- Wine & Passed Appetizers - $45
www.destinybaywine.com

February 5, 2010 - Sparkling Wine Tasting

Please join us for an evening of passed hors d'oeuvres and sparkling wine from around the world. Selections from France, Italy, Spain and California will all be represented. Beat the Valentine's Day rush and spend a pleasant evening learning about the production of these often overlooked wines,
or simply come and enjoy the wine and food! Some wines will be available for purchase at a special price.
This event will be open from 5:30pm-7:00pm
- Wine & Passed Appetizers - $45

January 15, 2010 - Moshin Vineyards
with Rick Moshin
Located in Russian River Valley, Moshin Vineyards specializes in small lot, hand-crafted wines. Rick Moshin's dream became a reality in 1989 with the purchase of a ten acre plot of land in Sonoma County. Today, the winery controls 28 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards producing wonderful Pinot Noirs, as well as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Zinfandel. Rick Moshin will be joining us to share his philosophy on wine making and to answer questions. Please join us for a five course meal paired with these wines from the Russian River Valley.
- 5 courses with wine- $95

Sommelier Dinner
Friday, December 4, 2010 at 7:00 p.m.

For our December dinner, we're combing the cellar for some excellent wines from around the world. We will highlight some of the great producers from the winemaking industry - pairing a wine from a different country for each course. Whether you're already a fan of these regions, or looking to try some new wines, this will a truly memorable dining experience. For this dinner we will be exploring wines from France, Spain, Germany and the U.S. We will discuss the different characteristics of each region, and how the wines best pair with food. Our executive Chef Isaac Miller will be preparing an equally diverse menu of five courses to pair with these wines.

5 courses - $105

Wines of Burgundy II
Friday, November 13, 2009

Onion Brioche Soup
Apple Pavé, Butter Bolete Chips
2004 Domaine Jean-Marc Boillot, "Les Referts" - 1er Cru Puligny-Montrachet

Seared Day Boat Scallop
Coconut Purée, Shaved Fennel Salad, Forbidden Rice Cake
2000 Domaine B. Morey, "Les Caillerets" - 1er Cru Chassagne-Montrachet

Poussin en Demi-Deuil
Roasted Maitake Mushroom, Burgundy Truffles
1999 Domaine Latour-Giraud, "Clos de Chênes" -1er Cru Volnay

Beef Short Ribs
Braised Kale, Cocoa Nib Charmoula
1998 Domaine Heresztyn, "Clos Saint-Denis" - Grand Cru Morey Saint Denis

Saint André
Honeycomb, Autumn Royal Grapes in Pinot Noir Syrup
1996 Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret, "Les Cras" - 1er Cru Vougeot

Chef - Isaac Miller / Sommelier - Chris Templin

Burgundy Wine Dinner
Monday, August 24, 2009 at 6:30 p.m.
Special Guest Sommelier Christopher Templin
$ 85.00 Dinner only**
$ 165.00 Dinner with wine pairing**
**plus tax and gratuity
Limited Seating - Credit card reservation required

Amuse
Bourgogne Blanc or Crémant

*******
Rouget, vanilla-scented leeks, roast tomato
2000 René Dauvissat Chablis "Vaillons" Premier Cru

*******
Butter poached lobster, corn flan, urchin bisque
2001 Vincent Girardin Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru

******
Quail stuffed with sweetbread farce, foie gras & huckleberry sauce
2002 Domaine Comte Georges de Vogüé, Chambolle-Musigny, Appellation Contrôlée
2002 Dujac Fils et Père, Chambolle-Musigny, Appellation Côntrolée

******
Roast suckling pig, Iacopi Farms butter beans, mirepoix, wild fennel
1996 Louis Jadot, Chateau De Pommard Premier Cru, Jean-Louis LaPlanche

******
A selection of artisan cheeses
Epoisses de Bourgogne, Crottin De Champcol, Bleu de Laqueuille
1996 Dominique Laurent, Mazis-Chambertin, Grand Cru

******
Mignardises assorti

(August 11, 2009)

******

An Evening with "The King of Mushrooms"
Special Guest: Todd Spanier of Rei de Funghi
Thursday, June 25, 2009 at 6:30 p.m.

$ 64.00 per person plus tax and gratuity (w/o wine)

$ 99.00 per person plus tax and gratuity (with wine)

Credit card reservation required in advance...limited seating!

For reservations call (650)-347-7231

Amuse Bouche

*****

Golden Chanterelles, inaka miso, oranges and basil

2006 Domaine D'Orfeuilles Vouvray Sec "Silex"
Loire Valley, Vouvray, France

******

Grey Morels, Serrano ham, fava beans and pickled ramps

2008 Big Basin Vineyards Syrah Rosé
Santa Cruz Mountains, Boulder Creek, California

******

Roasted Porcini, veal sweetbreads,
tomato conserva and Parmesan Reggiano

2007 Castalia "Rochioli Vineyard" Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, Healdsburg, California

******

Mushroom pancakes, apricot compote,
pecans and Candy Cap syrup

2005 Dr. Loosen Wehlener Sonnenuhr Spätlese
Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany

An Evening of food and wine with Hendry Vineyards

Come enjoy an evening of globally-inspired contemporary American cuisine and well-crafted wines. Chef Isaac Miller will prepare a four-course menu to pair with the wines of Napa Valley’s Hendry Ranch. Chef Miller honed his skills under chefs William Collier and Philip Baker of 231 Ellsworth, and David Kinch of Manresa. The Hendry family has farmed the Napa Valley since 1939 and have made superb wines as well as supplied high-quality grapes to many well-known producers over the years.

The evening (a $ 175 value) includes dinner, wine, tax, gratuity,
and a complimentary copy of San Francisco Cuisine Magazine
for $ 110.00 per person**.

An Evening with Napa’s Hendry Vineyard
Special Guest: Susan Ridley
Monday, August 25, 2008 at 6:30 p.m.
$ 110.00 per person inclusive of tax and gratuity
Credit card reservation required in advance...limited seating!
For reservations call (650)-347-7231

Dinner Menu

Hokkaido scallop, seared avocado, mango, and Ha-Tien pepper oil

2007 Hendry “Hendry Ranch” Napa Valley Pinot Gris
******

Local Halibut, corn pudding, and roasted heirloom tomatoes

2005 Hendry “Barrel Fermented” Napa Valley Chardonnay
******

Lamb loin and braised lamb shank,
roast porcini, fennel fingerling potatoes

2004 Hendry "Napa Valley" Cabernet Sauvignon
******

Monte Enebro, blackberries, and mint, zinfandel gastrique

2004 Hendry “Hendry Block 28” Napa Valley Zinfandel
*****

** As always, we will accommodate any vegetarian and special dietary requests.**

** The Commonwealth Club of Silicon Valley and the Yale Alumni
of Silcon Valley will receive a special promotional price of $ 100.00 per person inclusivve for this event.

******

Burgundy Wine Dinner Event
Friday, October 26, 2007 at 6:30 p.m.
Dinner $ 100.00 per person
Optional Wine Pairing $ 75.00 per person

Amuse

*******
Sautéed frog's legs, ravigote, mâche, truffle vinaigrette
2001 René Dauvissat Chablis "La Forest" Premier Cru
*******
Butter poached lobster, crayfish quenelle,
fennel, citrus beurre blanc
2001 Vincent Girardin Puligny-Montrachet "Les Caillerets" Premier Cru
******
Twice cooked foie gras, lentils, yellow beet purée, preserved lemon
1999 Maison Bouchard Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru
******
Squab breast and confit leg, spiced pumpkin,
Maitake mushrooms, huckleberries
1999 Domaine de la Pousse d'Or Volnay "Clos de la Bousse d'Or" Premier Cru
******
Braised beef cheeks, crème fraîche potatoes,
Pearl onions, spinach foam
2004 Domaine de L'Arlot Vosne-Romanée "Les Suchots" Premier Cru
******
A selection of artisan cheeses
Epoisses de Bourgogne, Bresse Bleu, and Clacbitou
1997 Fougeray de Beauclair Bonnes-Mares Grand Cru
******
Meyer lemon chibouste
******

Mignardises assorti

Domaine Serene Wine Dinner
Special Guest Winemaker Tony Rynders
Friday, November 18, 2005 at 6:30 p.m.
$ 135.00 per person plus tax and gratuity

Hors d'Oeuvres

Oysters on the half shell with Champagne granite
Smoked salmon on buckwheat blini with crème fraîche and herbs
Prosciutto and pear crostini
Foie gras cromesquis "poppers"
2001 "Clos du Soleil" Willamette Valley Chardonnay
*****

Vanilla poached Maine lobster, green apple,
buttermilk panna cotta and cinnamon tart dough
2002 "Côte Sud" Willamette Valley Chardonnay
*****

Crispy butter poached Artic Char with Beluga lentils,
smoked bacon, and truffled celery
2003 " Yamhill Cuvée" Oregon Pinot Noir
*****

Squab breast and confit leg with roasted Porcini mushrooms,
foie gras custard, and huckleberries
2002 "Evenstad Reserve" Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
*****

Tea-smoked venison loin with braised escarole
and Kabocha squash agnolotti
2001 Rock Block "Del Rio Vineyard" Rogue River Valley Syrah
*****

Plateau de Fromage
Petit Basque, Epoisses de Bourgogne, and Fourme d'Ambert
2002 "Mark Bradford Vineyard" Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

The Wines of Domaine Serene Vineyards and Winery

In 1989, Domaine Serene founders Ken and Grace Evenstad purchased 42 acres in the Dundee Hills of Oregon. Over subsequent years, the original Evenstad Estate grew to a total of 142 acres by adding adjacent hillside vineyards. To further add complexity to their wines they have purchased an additional 170 acres of vineyards in other locales in the Willamette Valley. Through its vineyard holdings, Domaine Serene has secured the ability to consistently produce exquisite estate grown Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Vineyard management and winemaking work together as farming practices insure very low crop levels and winemaking processes are designed to ensure complex, concentrated and elegant wines. Their fourteen-year average yield is 1.7 tons per acre. Since 1998, Winemaker Tony Rynders has led the Domaine Serene winemaking team. After his inaugural winery experience in California in 1989, Tony enrolled in the Viticulture and Enology program at U.C. Davis and received his Masters Degree in Enology in 1993. Tony has a wide diversity of winemaking experiences spanning well over a decade in Oregon, Washington, California, Italy and Australia

2001 "Clos du Soleil" Chardonnay (current retail $ 38.00 / bottle)
A very well made wine, concentrated yet graceful, and complex but still integrated. Fruit aromas of ripe pear and baked apple work nicely with the accenting notes of wood smoke and spices. This is an exemplary winemaking effort.

2002 "Côte Sud" Chardonnay (current retail $ 38.00 / bottle)
Bright and floral aromas of citrus flower, jasmine and spearmint blend nicely with fruit notes of pear, tangerine spiced apple, and lemon custard. Vanilla and flinty mineral tones add more complexity. The luscious palate shows ripe apricot, green apple, kiwi, lemon-lime, mineral, toast and caramel with excellent structure and beautiful, well-balanced acidity.

2003 "Yamhill Cuvée" Pinot Noir (current retail $ 33.00 / bottle)
As is typical of the vintage, the 2003 Yamhill Cuvée is loaded with ripe and spicy aromas of dark cherry plum, candied strawberry, sandalwood, beetroot, cola, anise, candle wax and allspice. The palate is full and supple with ripe strawberry and dark cherry fruit. Notes of sassafras, citrus and slight tarragon accents add complexity. It displays an incredibly long and silky finish.

2002 "Evenstad Reserve" Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
(current retail $ 47.00 / bottle)
92 POINTS - "Polished, round and subtle, with remarkable presence. Shows beautiful plum, blueberry and sweet spice flavors that linger effortlessly on the refined finish. Delicious. " - Harvey Steinman, Wine Spectator, May 15, 2005

2002 "Mark Bradford Vineyard" Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
(current retail $ 75.00 / bottle)
Effusive nose of violet, rose petal, black raspberry, ripe Bing cherry, talc, bramble, pipe tobacco, slight toast and earth. The palate displays intense black raspberry, tangy wild cherry, boysenberry, sage, violet, beetroot, allspice and cinnamon. Ample tannins add structure to the juicy and lengthy finish.

2001 Rock Block "Del Rio Vineyard" Syrah
(current retail $ 40.00 / bottle)
Located at 1,100-1,300 foot elevation in the Rogue Valley Appellation in southern Oregon, about five miles from Medford, this vineyard's rocky, clay loam soils produce a dark, extracted and complex style syrah. Classic syrah aromas of smoked meat, black cherry, flint, leather, cedar, cassis, black pepper, and mint. The palate displays wild black cherry, anise, earth, dark chocolate, leather, and is slightly meaty with good weight and dusty tannins.

2002 Rock Block "Seven Hills Vineyard" Syrah
(current retail $ 40.00 / bottle)
Nestled in the Walla Walla Valley Appellation in the far northeast of Oregon, near Milton-Freewater, this 300-500 foot elevation vineyard with sandy loam soils produces a round, lush, intensely fruit-driven Syrah with ripe velvety tannins. The effusive nose is loaded with freshly crushed blackberry, graphite, smoke, licorice, dried mission fig, vanilla and grilled meat. The bright and lively front palate shows ripe blackberry, cassis, and blue plum fruit with notes of flint, Asian spices, molasses and dark chocolate. Supple, cocoa-like tannins add to the finish.

(October 11, 2005)

Ponzi Vineyards Wine Dinner
Special Guest Luisa Ponzi of Ponzi Vineyards
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
$ 125.00 per person plus tax and gratuity

Hors d'Oeuvres

Prosciutto, pear, and goat cheese crostini
Smoked salmon with apple and horseradish cream
Gazpacho with avocado mousse
2004 "Willamette Valley" Pinot Gris
*****

Warm oysters with corn custard and herbed butter
2004 "Willamette Valley" Arneis
*****

Local California halibut with warm potato-artichoke salad,
truffle oil, and leek vinaigrette
2004 "Willamette Valley" Pinot Blanc
*****

Slow roasted breast of Guinea fowl, foie gras bread pudding,
and summer berries
2002 " Willamette Valley" Pinot Noir
2002 "Reserve" Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

*****

Pan roasted lamb loin with house-cured lamb bacon,
exotic mushroom tart, and five-spice tomatoes
2002 "Abetina Vineyard" Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
*****

"Baked Oregon" ~ Roasted Oregon apricot ice cream inside baked meringue
with poached Oregon apricots and saffron syrup
2003 Vino Gelato Oregon

The Wines of Ponzi Vineyards

Join us for an evening with Luisa Ponzi and Ponzi Vineyards. For more than three decades, wine pioneers Dick and Nancy Ponzi have set the standard for Oregon's viticultural innovation while maintaining an unwavering commitment to a tradition of winemaking excellence. Today, this philosophy is carried on by the Ponzi Family's second generation: Winemaker Luisa Ponzi, Sales/Marketing Director Maria Ponzi Fogelstrom and Operations Manager Michel Ponzi.

The Ponzi Family's 100 acres of family-owned vineyards in the Northern Willamette Valley are LIVE Certified, the world's highest standard for sustainable viticulture. Ponzi Vineyards continues to hold long-term contracts with many of the best growers in the region. Driven by the concept that the variety must match the terroir and climate, Ponzi Vineyards continues to set the standard for Oregon and remains at the forefront of the nation's top wine producers.

Luisa Ponzi graduated from Portland State University, Portland, Oregon, with a Bachelor of Science with an emphasis in Biology in 1990. Following her undergraduate studies, Luisa moved to Beaune, France, where she continued her education. As part of the required curriculum, Luisa apprenticed with Burgundian producer, M. Christophe Roumier of Domaine Roumier of Chambolle Musigny, France and Italian producer Luca Currado of Vietti in Piedmonte, Italy. In 1993, Luisa was awarded the degree Brevet Professional D'Oenologie et Viticulture.

2004 "Willamette Valley" Pinot Gris (current retail $ 15.00 / bottle)
Ponzi's Pinot Gris plantings date back to 1979. The 2004 is a blend from the Linda Vista, Gemini, Aurora, Durant, and the Estate Vineyard. A winter freeze and spring rains set the tone for small, inconsistent berries and vineyard yields of 1-11/2 tons per acre. Ripe cantaloupe, pineapple, and almond aromas give way to a lovely balance of pear and crisp citrus on the palate with a lingering finish.

2004 "Willamette Valley" Arneis (current retail $ 20.00 / bottle)
Ponzi is one of a handful of U.S. producers and the only Oregon producer of this varietal originating from the Northern Piemonte region of Italy. In 1991, the Currado family of Vietti Winery in Piemonte, Italy inspired the Ponzi's to plant cuttings of Arneis in the Aurora Vineyard. The 2004 vintage brought inconsistent berry size and small yields to the vineyard. Notes of citrus blossom and almond aromas lead to a refreshingly crisp and brisk palate of marmalade and honeysuckle. The finish offers a nice balance of acid and sweet fruit flavors.

2004 "Willamette Valley" Pinot Blanc (current retail $15.00 / bottle)
Ponzi first planted Pinot Blanc in 1970 and as with many U.S. producers what was thought to be Pinot Blanc turned out to be Melon de Bourgogne. Those original vines were grafted over to Pinot Gris and the true Pinot Blanc variety was planted in the Aurora Vineyard in 1990. The 2004 Pinot Blanc is a stunning wine with very little oak influence as it was fermented in 20% oak and 80% stainless steel tanks. It delivers aromas of jasmine, honeydew melon, and powdered sugar. The palate fills with ripe peach, green apple, and lemon-lime flavors. The finish is clean with a bright hint of tangerine.

2002 "Willamette Valley" Pinot Noir (current retail $ 30.00 / bottle)
A beautiful warm, dry summer and mild fall temperatures brought the fruit to perfect ripeness. The fruit was handpicked and yielded 2-3 tons per acre from the Aurora, Gemini, and Winter's Hill Vineyards. This wine delivers aromas of blackberry, ripe raspberry, black licorice, and white pepper. The mouth is full and lush with hints of sweet cassis and plums. A silky mid-palate offers texture on the way to a seamless finish with well-balanced, soft tannins and lingering fruit flavors.

2002 "Reserve" Willamette Valley Pinot Noir (current retail $ 50.00 / bottle)
2002's perfect conditions led to an excellent harvest yielding 2 tons per acre from the Madrona, Linda Vista, Winter's Hill, and Abetina Vineyards. Explosive aromas of wild currants and red raspberry fruit with earth and tobacco notes lead to a smooth, velvety mouth of chocolate and raspberry. The finish is bright and long with hints of Italian plum.

2002 "Abetina Vineyard" Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
(current retail $ 85.00 / bottle)
Abetina is a spectacular two-acre site planted with 20 different Pinot Noir clones as part of the Oregon Clonal Test in 1975. Abetina crowns an east-facing slope of Chehalem Mountain. Produced only in select vintages, this single-vineyard offering delivers the most profound and beautiful Pinot Noir fruit of all of Ponzi's vineyards. The Abetina vintage distinctly characterizes the slightly wild and barely in control personality of the both the vine and wine. Loads of black cherry cola, allspice, and blackberry aromas surround the inevitable white pepper and vanilla notes. The front palate is broad and expansive with cassis and cinnamon notes. A rich, bright, and satisfying mid-palate offers balanced tannins that extend into the solid and lengthy finish.

2003 Vino Gelato Oregon White Wine (current retail $ 24.00 / bottle)
Vino Gelato is a blend of White Riesling from Estate Vineyards and Muscat from the Alloro Vineyard in the Chehalem Mountains. The clusters were frozen until January and then pressed and slowly fermented in 50% neutral oak and 50% stainless steel tanks. Aromas of apricot nectar, citrus blossoms, and honeysuckle lead to tangerines, almonds, and kumquat marmalade. Bright acidity keeps the palate lively and brings balance to the sweet flavors.

(July 25, 2005)

Gary Farrell Wine Dinner
Special Guest Debbie Farrell of Gary Farrell Winery
Friday, April 22, 2005 at 6:30 p.m.
$ 120.00 per person plus tax and gratuity

Hors d’Oeuvres

Shrimp tempura with soy sake broth
Sweet onion and Gruyère cheese tart
Seared tuna on wonton crisp

2004 "Redwood Ranch" Sonoma Sauvignon Blanc

*****

Roasted Maine lobster with black truffle lasagna
and celeriac cream

2002 "Starr Ridge" Russian River Valley Chardonnay

*****

Butter poached Alaskan halibut with pesto calamari
and balsamic brown butter

2002 "Russian River Valley" Sonoma Pinot Noir

*****

Duck confit a l'orange and seared foie gras

2002 "Allen Vineyard" Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

*****

Niman Ranch dry-aged rib eye steak with short rib raviolo and caramelized onion

2000 "Sonoma" Cabernet Sauvignon

*****

Warm Valrhona chocolate soufflé

2000 "Maple Vineyard - Tina's" Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel

(March 31, 2005)

Domaine Comte Georges de Vogüé Dinner
Special Guest Jean-Luc Pépin
Sales Director
Monday, March 7, 2005 at 6:30 p.m.
$ 231.00 per person plus tax and gratuity
Call (650)-347-7231 for reservations - credit card required

NOTE: All wines have been recently shipped to us from the Domaine

Hors d'Oeuvre
Blini with caviar and crème fraîche
Lobster beggar's purse

Champagne

*****

Abalone and haricot-vert salad with truffle vinaigrette

1992 Musigny Blanc Grand Cru

*****

Rabbit loin with confit leg Napoleon and leek coulis

1993 Chambolle-Musigny Appellation Côntrolée

*****

Squab breast with seared foie gras and cèpe custard

1997 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru (young vine Musigny)

*****

Lamb loin with chestnut ravioli, caramelized fennel, roasted shallots, and toasted walnuts

1988 Bonnes-Mares Grand Cru

*****

Montbriac en croute with Burgundy poached pear and cress salad

2000 Musigny Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru
1990 Musigny Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru

The Wines of Domaine Comte Georges de Vogüé

The second most famous red wine estate in Burgundy. It traces its origins as far back as the 15th century, which is old even by Burgundy's genealogical standards. And it boasts remarkable vineyard holdings, including 66% of the famed Musigny grand cru, for a total of 18.55 acres. The domaine also owns 18 percent of Bonnes Mares (6.75 acres) and produces a small amount (1.5 acres) of premier cru Chambolle-Musigny Les Amoureuses. The de Vogüé family came into the estate through marriage in the 18th century. Georges de Vogüé inherited the estate in 1925. Upon his death in 1987, it passed to his only daughter, Elizabeth, Baronne Bertrand de Ladoucette. In 2002 the daughters of Baronne Bertrand de Ladoucette, Claire de Causans and Marie de Ladoucette, inherited the property's ownership.

1992 Musigny Blanc Grand Cru (retail $ 549.00 / bottle)
Originally planted at the top of Le Musigny in the 1940's, this 100% Chardonnay is the only Grand Cru white wine from the Côte de Nuits. Following the 1993 vintage, these vines were dug up and replanted in the same location in 1997. Parts of the northern edge of Les Petites Musigny, a vineyard of limestone pebbles, was replanted in 1986, 1987, and 1991 and are currently being marketed as Bourgogne Blanc. Musigny Blanc Grand Cru will not be available commercially until the vines reach twenty years of age. The '92 Musigny Blanc is a spectacular bottle, with a bouquet of apples, pear, and hints of quince. Honey notes, toasted almonds, and vanillin oak add complexity. Deep, full with zesty acidity, great structure, and a lengthy finish. This wine is still youthful and vibrant, one of the snappiest 1992s, and will continue to improve with another year or two of cellaring.

1993 Chambolle-Musigny Appellation Côntrolée
(current retail value $ 165.00 / bottle)
As not to confuse it with the other Premier Cru offerings from the domaine, this wine consists of a blend of declassified fruit from the two Premier Cru vineyards of Les Fuées and Les Baudes as well as fruit from young vine Grand Cru Musigny. It offers aromas of cherry and raspberry with floral notes, spicy overtones and toasted oak. Vibrant acidity was a trademark of the 93' vintage. This mature AC offering has held up well due to its true Premier Cru status. Always a value in Comte de Vogüé lineup, the current 2001 and 2002 releases retail for around $ 75-85 per bottle.

1997 Chambolle-Musigny Premier Cru
(current retail value $180.00 / bottle)
This wine comes exclusively from Grand Cru Musigny vines that are less than 25 years old which were felt to compromise the quality of the Musigny VV. This policy was introduced in 1995 as evidence to the commitment of a "no compromise" approach to quality and true expression on terroir. Very spicy but rather shy aromas of blackberry, raspberry, currant, licorice, and nutmeg. Penetrating and spicy on the palate with nice black fruit flavors downright refreshing for the vintage. The wine shows a silky texture as it opens up on the back half of the palate highlighting sappy, sweet fruit and a superb finish. Current vintages of this wine retail from $ 100-120 per bottle.

1988 Bonnes-Mares Grand Cru (current retail value $ 275.00 / bottle)
The fully mature 88' has opened up again at this stage in its life and is a very fine wine. The nose offer spicy wood, mocha, and hints of dried red fruits. After opening in the glass chocolate tones become more evident. The first impression on the palate is a soft entry, a little tart, not a rounded wine with a slight touch of alcohol on the finish. With time it melds together in the glass, becoming more harmonious with each sip. Current releases of Bonnes-Mares retail for $ 200-225 per bottle.

1990 Musigny Vieilles Vignes
(current retail value $ 599.00-849.00/ bottle)
The King of Chambolle-Musigny. A classic Burgundy, its saturated dense ruby/purple color is followed by a tight-fisted nose and flavors of black fruits, underbrush, minerals, smoke, and new oak. Although extremely concentrated, the wine is broodingly backward, and desires more cellar time. This loaded effort should prove to be one of the longest-lived red Burgundies made in the last twenty-five years.

2000 Musigny Vieilles Vignes (current retail value $ 315.00 / bottle)
An enthralling sappy richness sets the tone for this floral and blackberry scented wine. Outstanding depth, purity, and concentration make this fun to drink now. Lush, stony red and black fruits are intertwined with violets and tangy raspberry. On the palate it is plump and rich with an expressive, lengthy finish. The current release retails for $300-325 per bottle.

Italian Wine Dinner
Special Guest Thomas Koehorst
Friday, January 28, 2005 at 6:30 p.m.
$ 120.00 per person plus tax and gratuity

Biography -- Thomas Koehorst

A longtime San Franciscan, Thomas Koehorst grew up in Vienna, Austria, surrounded by the famous "Heurige" of his Grinzing neighborhood. He discovered his passion for wine while working in several well known restaurants financing his studies to become a professor of Literature. Mr. Koehorst owned his own wine consulting business and still teaches wine seminars regularly including UC extension courses. Recognized as one of the best wine educators in the industry, he currently works as the Italian wine manager for the largest wine distributor in California. He specializes in European wines with an emphasis on Bordeaux, Italy and Austria. "It is passion, above all else, which conveys the essence of wine."

Hors d’Oeuvres
Parmesan crisps with roasted peppers
Duck prosciutto wrapped figs
Chanterelle mushroom cappuccino

NV Nino Franco Prosecco “Rustico”, Veneto, Italy

*****
Abalone and haricot vert salad with truffle vinaigrette

2003 Feudi di San Gregorio Fiano di Avellino, Campania, Italy

*****

Chestnut ravioli with foie gras and fennel

2000 Angelo Gaja Rossj-Bass Chardonnay, Piemonte, Italy

*****

Veal cheeks and sweetbreads with porcini mushroom custard

1998 Poggio Scalette Il Carbonaione, Toscana, Italy

*****

Lamb loin with truffled polenta

1995 Bussia Soprana "Mosconi" Barolo, Piemonte, Italy

*****

An assortment of chocolates

2003 Banfi Rosa Regale Brachetto, Piemonte, Italy

(January 13, 2005)

An evening with Argyle Winery
Special Guest Chris Cullina of Argyle Winery
November 19-20, 2004

$ 110.00 per person plus tax and gratuity

Hors d’Oeuvres

Chilled lobster salad with avocado and brioche
Blinis with crème fraîche and caviar
Citrus marinated beet tartare

1999 Argyle "Knudsen Vineyards" Willamette Valley Brut

*****

Roasted Maine lobster with black mission figs and port wine sauce

2000 Argyle "Nuthouse" Willamette Valley Chardonnay

*****

Duck breast, duck confit and foie gras timbale
with huckleberry compote

2001 Argyle "Nuthouse" Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

*****

Venison loin with roasted pear, caramelized onions, and bacon

2002 Argyle "Spirithouse" Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

*****

Assorted Artisan cheeses with walnut-date bread
Istara (sheep's milk- Spain), Boucheron(goat's milk - France),
and Roaring 40's Blue (cow's milk - Australia)

2002 Argyle "Reserve" Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

*****

Chocolate Sampler
A tasting of white and dark chocolate

1999 Argyle "Knudsen Vineyard" Willamette Valley Brut Rosé

(October 25, 2004)

*******

A GLANCE AT SOME PREVIOUS EVENTS....

An Evening with Château Palmer
Special Guest: Bernard De Laage, Proprietor
Wednesday, May 5, 2004 at 6:30 p.m.
231 Ellsworth in San Mateo

Credit card reservation required in advance...limited seating!
For reservations call (650)-347-7231

Hors d'Oeuvre & Champagne
*****

Cabernet Sauvignon glazed Monkfish with mushroom purse
~
1997 Alter Ego Margaux
1997 Château Palmer Margaux

Roasted Squab and Foie Gras flan
with currant chutney and Squab jus
~
2001 Alter Ego Margaux
2001 Château Palmer Margaux Grand Cru Classé

Venison Loin with English peas and caramelized onions
~
1994 Château Palmer Margaux Grand Cru Classé
1996 Château Palmer Margaux Grand Cru Classé

Plateau de Fromage
~
1990 Château Palmer Margaux Grand Cru Classé
1983 Château Palmer Margaux Grand Cru Classé

Baked Passionfruit Chibouste
with passionfruit sorbet
~
1997 Doisy-Védrines Sauternes Deuxième Cru Classé

(March 25, 2004)

Michel Chapoutier Wine Dinner
Special Guest Fred Dame, M.S.
Paterno Wines International
Monday, November 17, 2003 at 6:30 p.m.
231 Ellsworth in San Mateo
$155.00 per person plus tax and gratuity
Credit card reservation required in advance...limited seating!
For reservations call (650)-347-7231

Hors d'Oeuvre
Lobster with Vanilla Ravioli
Dungeness Crab Cocktail with Lychee Ice
Black Trumpet Mushrooms baked in Puff Pastry

2000 M. Chapoutier Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc "La Bernardine"
*****

Butter poached Maine Lobster

1999 M. Chapoutier St. Joseph Blanc "Deschantes"
*****

Anise marinated Venison Loin with Black Currant Caramel

1995 M. Chapoutier Hermitage "Monier de la Sizeranne"
*****

Rosemary braised Oxtail with Marrow Polenta and Black Olives

1998 M. Chapoutier Crozes-Hermitage "Les Meysonnières"
1998 M. Chapoutier Côte-Rôtie "Les Bécasses"
*****

Assorted Artisan Cheeses with Walnut-Date Bread

1999 M. Chapoutier Châteauneuf-du-Pape "Croix de Bois"
*****

Valrhona Sampler
Warm Chocolate Tart, Bittersweet Chocolate Granita,
and Chocolate Amaretti Layers

1998 M. Chapoutier Banyuls Vin Doux Naturel
*****

The Wines of Michel Chapoutier
The featured wines at 231 Ellsworth on Monday, November 17th.

One of the great success stories of recent years is the emergence of M. Chapoutier as one of the most eminent Rhône wine producers. Since Michel began leading the centuries-old family business in 1990, the winery has vaulted to the forefront of quality.

Founded in 1808, M. Chapoutier is the only landowner in the area to own vineyards in all the major appellations. Today, his holdings consist of more than 395 acres, spread over Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, Condrieu, St. Joseph, Côte Rôtie, Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Gigondas. The quality of M. Chapoutier's wines result not only from the vineyard holdings, but also the way in which he cultivates the land. Michel firmly believes that it is the winemaker's obligation to subordinate himself to the vineyard - its soil, its grape varietal and all aspects of its terroir. Michel Chapoutier is dedicated to farming the land according to a biodynamic viticultural philosophy that emphasizes low yields, resulting in the ideal expression of soil character for each vineyard. By cultivating the soil biodynamically, with no chemical herbicides, pesticides or fertilizers, vines grow more robust and dig deep into the bedrock for sustenance. This allows the land to find its ultimate expression in the wines of M. Chapoutier.

Stylish, concentrated and fruit-laden, Chapoutier's wines have become benchmarks for quality and style. Robert Parker Jr. of The Wine Advocate, a champion of Chapoutier, describes Michel as "one of the planet's shining stars" as well as a winemaking superstar.

2001 Viognier Coteau de L'Ardeche (retail $ 45.00 / bottle)
Made from low yields, this wine offers perfumed aromas of delicious peach, apricot, and honeysuckle. Medium-bodied with nice texture and a long finish.

2001 Condrieu (retail $ 81.50 / bottle)
Very fruity and exotic with ripe peach, apricot, and pineapple tones. Aromas of minerals, lychee, and Acacia flower add to the complexity. Rich texture on the palate with a long, satisfying finish.

1995 M. Chapoutier Hermitage "Monier de la Sizeranne"
(retail $ N/A bottle)
A full-bodied, dense, ruby-purple colored wine. Sweet fruit aromas of cassis combine with smokey, gamey tones, chocolate, and earth. This wine has great intensity with layered texture and flavors. Sweet tannins offer good grip on the palate.

2001 M. Chapoutier St-Joseph "Les Granits" Rouge
(retail $ 40.00 / bottle)
One of Chapoutier's sexier offerings, this wine is produced from hillside granite soils near the town of Mauves (home of the renowned producers Jean-Louis and Gerard Chave). It has dense, ruby color with aromas of crushed stones, violets, and red fruits. This concentrated wine has a rich mid palate and crisp acidity.

1998 M. Chapoutier Côte-Rotie (retail $ N/A bottle)
An excellent wine with dark ruby color. The aromas offer attractive sweet cassis fruit, black olive, smokey tones, and dried Provencal herbs. This medium-bodied wine has fine concentration on the palate with supple tannins.

2001 M. Chapoutier Châteauneuf-du-Pape "Croix de Bois"
(retail $ 75.00 / bottle)
Only 500 cases of this wine were produced in 2001. A deep, saturated ruby-purple colored wine offers a gorgeous perfume of macerated black cherries, a mélange of Provencal herbs, earth, and spice box tones. Notes of tobacco, licorice, and roasted meats along with sweet cherry and cassis fruit ooze across the palate without being over the top. This wine has monumental flavor and offers a sensational tactile impression on the palate.

1999 M. Chapoutier Banyuls Vin Doux Naturel (retail $ 48.00 / bottle)
This dark garnet colored wine offers aromas of black cherry, blackberry, and chocolate with hints of smoke, orange, and pepper. Big and luscious on the palate with dense, dried berry flavors and chocolate tones. This wine delivers marvelous intensity and purity but is balanced by sweet tannins and crisp acidity.

(September 23, 2003)

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231 South Ellsworth Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94401
(650) 347-7231