Take Flight To Some Exciting Wine Pairings Near You!

Posted by Keith Saunders

Posted: June 19, 2008 - 2:04 pm

For the next few weeks I'll be spending some time finding special spots in town to sit back and enjoy some unique wine pairings.

While wine flights are nothing new, I've found they are rare in town. Considering how many restaurants specialize in many of the best wines available in the country that surprised me.

I myself prefer a sampling of different varietals, it's a great opportunity for the experience to find the right wine for your palate.

There are some jewels in town that can't be passed up.

My first stop was Kinley's Restaurant and Bar.

Right off the bat you're hit with the magnificent display of wines and ports behind the bar.

For the rest of June Kinley's is offering a "down under flight" of three wines.

Chasing Venus, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlorough, NZ 2007-An explosion of fruit flavors, citrus, honey and a little peach. Well balanced with a hint of sweetness and spice.

Kim Crawford, Riesling, Marlborough, NZ 2006-Clean, citrus, with fruit and lemon. Very herbaceous with a fresh lime finish.

Cold Stream Hills, Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley, Austrailia 2006-Brilliant structure and depth with concentrated cherry and raspberry fruit characters. Toasty French oak with a long, fine, silky tannin finish.

Any one of these wines can be had for $8.50 for a 5 oz. glass or $15.00 for the flight. You are poured a generous 3 oz. per wine.

The food pairing was something else, I had the Tuna Tataki, seared Ahi Tuna, poached quail egg, artichoke Hearts, grape tomatoes, green beans, kalamato olive vinaigrette, $12.00 It pairs equally well with each wine and brings a different character with every sip.

My personal favorite was the Bacon Wrapped Dates served in a Lemon Garlic Butter. For $4.00 it's genius! A great pairing with Cold Stream Hills, Pinot Noir. The fruit really brings out the buttery dates. Last but not least the Crab, Scallop and Goat Cheese Cakes, sweet onion miso dressing, roasted garlic and red pepper $12.00.

Lovin' it with the Kim Crawford, Riesling. The Riesling blends so well with the sweet onion miso.

Very Yummy!

Starting July 1st, Sommelier/General Manager extrodinaire, Solomon Loosli has told me he will be working in some South American and Argentinian wines into the mix.

Later in the Summer he will be bringing in a Menage a Trois of New World Pinot Noir and a New Mexico sparkling. That's right New mexico! A single vineyard Oregon and an Estate grown Russian River are to follow.

I'm looking forward to going back and trying all of these variations he'll be installing.

You simply can't miss here. If your interested in any other types of wine being offered but aren't sure, I'm sure you can coax a taste out of the Bartender.

Don't miss the Wine Makers Dinner with Robert Hall on Monday June 23rd. There are still a few seats available. Call 644-8953.

Next up Simon and Seafort's.

Salut!

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