Chef Jason Merrill teams up with Vintner Richard Sanford for a Delectable food and wine tasting.

 

Some how spinning in the gym and burning off 800 or more calories leads to another delectable dinner. Next to me on the spin cycle is Katie Merrill who can chat while she is spinning and she asks what Norm and I are doing for dinner, I told her it was date night and we were headed to the River House, but had no specific plans on where to eat. Perfect she said, Jason her adorable talented husband, is the Chef at the Hanover Inn and he was hosting a Wine Tasting. 

She quickly made the arrangements and lucky for us we were now 2 of the guest.

Upon arrival we were greeted by one of the many Sommeliers with a glass of Pinot Gris 2006, Santa Barbara County.  Trays of bite-size hors d’oeuvres including Foie Gras Torchon, Oysters on the Half Shell, Roasted Poblanos and Red Pepper Tostone and Oyster Shooters with house made bloody Mary mix were passed.  We chatted with Jason and Richard and some of the other guest before being seated for our incredible dinner.  

Richard stands as a legend of California winemaking. His wineries name is “Alma Rosa”, which is the name for the 19^th Century Santa Rosa land grant. He is interested in agriculture as a sustainable harmony and producing extraordinary wines. His specialty is his Pinot Noir.

First of the many courses served, was Pan Roasted Scallop on a curry rice cake and sofrito this was paired with a 2006 Santa Barbara Chardonnay.  

The next course was delectable as truffles always are, Truffled Risotto, paired with El Jabali Vineyard Chardonnay 2005.

Fortunately the portions were small, we were ready for the next course Pan Roasted Organic Salmon, ginger bok choy, soba noodles , mirin-soy broth, gomasio and cilantro. Paired with 2006, La Encatada Vineyard , Pinot Noir.

Duck and More Duck Cassoulet followed, served on a native white teperay of beans, and a tiny frisee and spinach salad with lardoons and egg, the wine: 2007 Santa Rita Hills, Pinot Noir

Quinta do Noval, 10 year old tawny port was finally served with Steamed Orange cake and this was followed by bites size sweets.

The entire event was absolutely a treat for the senses and made for an incredible date night.