Wine Pairing at Fresh Salt with Joel Gott Winery

Social Media Promotion

We were finally able to attend one of the amazing dinners as part of the Cuisine Series at Saybrook Point's restaurant, Fresh Salt. We've been downright drooling over every menu that we've viewed from this series - so to finally be able to partake in this wine tasting and dinner pairing that was featuring the wines from Joel Gott was a dream come true!

The Joel Gott Winery features wines grown from the short and cooler growing season of California, Washington, and Oregon, giving a crisp and clean flavor to their wines.

As always, Fresh Salt's beautiful ambiance added to a pleasurable meal, as well as dining with friends Wendy and Greg from ConnecticutLifestyles.com. In addition, we were fortunate enough to be seated with Robert Rustico, sommelier from Connecticut Distributors (who distribute Joel Gott Wines) and Jeremy Doyle representing Joel Gott Wines. It was truly a wine educating experience!

Here is a photo pictorial of our Fresh Salt and Joel Gott wine pairing dinner.

Cheese Table and Passed Hors d’oeuvres

Lamb Meatballs Pops, Crabmeat Cannoli, Lobster Arancini

Our hors d’oeuvres were paired with a delicious Pinot Gris - which was actually my favorite wine of the evening!

Pinot Gris, Joel Gott, 2015, Willamette Valley, Oregon

First Course

Duck Confit Taco

Duck Tacos with Dark Cherry-Chipotle Salsa, Crumbled Goat Cheese

This delicate dish paired beautifully with Joel Gott Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc, Joel Gott, 2015, California

Second Course

Steel Head Trout

Steel Head Trout with Shiitake-Leek Tart, Passion Fruit-Ginger Sauce

This was my first time tasting Steel Head Trout. Wow! It was so good - a bit reminiscent of salmon.

Chardonnay, Joel Gott, 2015, California

Third Course

Sweet & Spicy Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon

Filet Mignon served with Butternut Squash Ravioli, Morel Mushroom Sauce

I wish my photo could do justice to this delicious filet - it was incredibly tender - and literally cut with a fork.  Paired with the Pinot Noir, it was a win-win!

Pinot Noir, Joel Gott, 2014, Willamette Valley, Oregon

Fourth Course

Olive Oil Poached Halibut

Halibut with Valencia Rice, Roasted White Asparagus, Fennel Saffron Sauce

This hearty fish went well with our Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon, Joel Gott, 2012, Napa Valley, CA

Fifth Course

Seven Sins Chocolate Cake

Chocolate Cake, Chocolate Frosting, Chocolate Ganache, Black Cherry Sauce

I'll confess that I'm more of a milk chocolate lover than a dark chocolate lover - but this cake, the ganache, and the black cherry sauce made me a convert - and with the grenache wine (another first for me) I'm calling this my favorite pairing of the night!

Grenache, Joel Gott, 2014, California

After all this beautiful wine and food - we took a walk of the beautiful grounds at Saybrook Point Inn before heading home for the night with some new favorite wines to enjoy this season!

Visit Fresh Salt to learn more about their upcoming events 

as part of their  Cuisine Series 

http://www.saybrook.com/saybrook-point-inn-cuisine-series/

Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point

2 Bridge Street
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
860.395.2000
http://www.saybrook.com/restaurant/

About Saybrook Point

Situated along the picturesque shores of historic Old Saybrook, Connecticut, Saybrook Point features a collection of 100 elegantly-appointed guestrooms, a rejuvenating full-service SANNO spa, and casual fine dining restaurant Fresh Salt, as well as a unique waterside Lighthouse Suite. In addition, the historic Three Stories and Tall Tales luxury guesthouses offer exquisite rooms that convey the story of famous local residents. The pristine Saybrook Point Marina, a landmark boating destination conveniently located at the mouth of the Connecticut River, serves as a focal point for the Inn. More information is available at www.saybrook.com.

About Joel Gott Wines

Since their start in 1996, they have selected the best fruit from growing regions in California, Oregon and Washington, blended to create more balanced, clean, complex, and elegant wines. Joel Gott Wines are all geared towards giving their customers expressive and food-friendly wines at great prices. Try one soon! I hope you enjoy them as much as I did - and let me know what you think!

Disclaimer: We were invited to the Joel Gott Wine Pairing dinner by members of Saybrook Point's marketing and management team, however, all opinions expressed are our own.

Fresh Salt Hosts Caymus Vineyards Wine Dinner

Saybrook Point Inn's Fresh Salt Restaurant 

To Host Caymus Vineyards Wine Dinner

Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point is hosting a delightful wine dinner on Saturday, February 25 featuring distinct wines by Napa Valley’s first family of wines, the Wagner family – owners of Caymus Vineyards in one of California’s richest wine regions.

With special guest speaker Dan Campbell, Regional Director of Wagner Family of Wines, this exclusive Caymus Vineyards Wine Dinner will feature a wide collection of premier California wines expertly paired with a hearty selection of fresh seafood, steaks and poultry creatively prepared by Saybrook Point’s talented Private Event and Banquet Chef Bill Titus and Fresh Salt Chef d’ Cuisine Gesé Rodriguez.

The evening begins at 6:30 p.m. with a first course of hors d’oeuvres featuring Truffle Mac & Cheese, Curry Crab Cannoli, Brie & Tomato Jam Wonton, and Short Rib Stuffed Mushroom served with Conundrum Sparkling Wine.

Dinner immediately follows at 7:00 p.m. with a first course of Crudo Duet – Scallops and Bluefin Tuna with Blood Orange, Radish, Tobiko, and Avocado paired with Conundrum White V. 2014.

The second course features Steelhead Trout with Marcona Almond Crust, Sweet Potato Hash, and Ginger Butter Sauce paired with Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey V. 2013.

In the third course, guests will enjoy Coconut & Coffee-Crusted Duck Breast with Rutabaga Dauphinoise and Blackberry Sauce paired with Emmolo Merlot V. 2013, followed by the fourth course of Porterhouse Lamb Chop with Polenta Fries and Goat Cheese Stuffed Zucchini paired with 2014 Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

The evening concludes with the fifth and final course, an Overnight Chocolate-Raspberry Truffle Crème Brulée served on an Almond Dacquoise.

 The Caymus Vineyards Wine Dinner at Saybrook Point’s Fresh Salt is $115/person plus tax and service charge.

Reservations are necessary and may be made by calling the Fresh Salt reservations line at 860.339.1327.

Seaside Wine and Spirits will be in attendance, and offer guests the opportunity to place orders for their favorite wine of the evening at specially reduced prices. 

Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point

2 Bridge Street
Old Saybrook, CT  06475
www.saybrook.com

Call  860.339.1327 to reserve

About Saybrook Point 

Situated along the picturesque shores of historic Old Saybrook, Connecticut, Saybrook Point features a collection of 100 elegantly-appointed guestrooms, a rejuvenating full-service SANNO spa, and casual fine dining restaurant Fresh Salt, as well as a unique waterside Lighthouse Suite. In addition, the historic Three Stories and Tall Tales luxury guesthouses offer exquisite rooms that convey the story of famous local residents. The pristine Saybrook Point Marina, a landmark boating destination conveniently located at the mouth of the Connecticut River, serves as a focal point for the Inn. More information is available at www.saybrook.com.

Fresh Salt Hosts Robert Mondavi Wine Dinner

Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point 

To Host Robert Mondavi Wine Dinner

Attendees at Fresh Salt's upcoming wine pairing dinner will enjoy a distinctive culinary journey featuring one of the world’s finest wines from the renowned Napa Valley winery, Robert Mondavi. You know this dinner is going to be extra special as the winery is also celebrating their 50th Anniversary!

The dinner will take place on Saturday, February 1lth and will feature the exquisite creations of Chef d’ Cuisine Gesé Rodriguez.

The evening begins with a cocktail hour at 6:30 p.m. featuring Potato Wrapped Shrimp, Scallion-Potato Cake topped with Tuna Tartar, Mushroom Croquettes, and Prosciutto-Mascarpone Tart, served with a Prima Perla Prosecco, Italy DOCG Treviso.

The five-course dinner will follow at 7:00 p.m. with Pan-roasted Barramundi Fillet, which includes Lobster Risotto, Grilled King Oyster Mushroom, and Sweet Pea Sauce, paired with Robert Mondavi Napa Valley Fumé Blanc 2014.

For the second course, Chef Rodriguez will feature Porcini-crusted Veal Loin with Sweet Potato Ravioli, Caramelized Fig, Baby Zucchini, and Bourbon-Chestnut Sauce, paired with Robert Mondavi Special Selection Pinot Noir 2015.

 With the third course, guests will enjoy Scallop & Bacon – Pan-seared Scallop, Braised Pork Belly, Cauliflower-Potato Puree, Honey-roasted Baby Carrot and Plum-Merlot Sauce, paired with Robert Mondavi Chardonnay, Napa Valley 2014.

The fourth course will showcase a delicious cut of Wagyu Flat Iron Steak with Crispy-fried Yucca, Morel Mushroom and Foie Gras-Grand Marnier Butter, paired with Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2014.

The evening concludes with the fifth and final dessert course, a Vanilla-Poached Pear layered with Mango Curd, Cream Cheese and Vanilla Sauce paired with Robert Mondavi Moscato d’Or, Napa Valley 2014.

The Robert Mondavi Wine Dinner at Saybrook Point’s Fresh Salt is $109/person plus tax and service charge.

Reservations are necessary and may be made by calling the Fresh Salt reservations line at 860.339.1327.

Seaside Wine and Spirits will be in attendance, and offer guests the opportunity to place orders for their favorite wine of the evening at specially reduced prices.

Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point

2 Bridge Street
Old Saybrook, CT  06475
www.saybrook.com

Call  860.339.1327 to reserve

About Saybrook Point 

Situated along the picturesque shores of historic Old Saybrook, Connecticut, Saybrook Point features a collection of 100 elegantly-appointed guestrooms, a rejuvenating full-service SANNO spa, and casual fine dining restaurant Fresh Salt, as well as a unique waterside Lighthouse Suite. In addition, the historic Three Stories and Tall Tales luxury guesthouses offer exquisite rooms that convey the story of famous local residents. The pristine Saybrook Point Marina, a landmark boating destination conveniently located at the mouth of the Connecticut River, serves as a focal point for the Inn. More information is available at www.saybrook.com.

Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point Joel Gott Wine Dinner

Fresh Salt and Joel Gott Winery presents

Joel Gott Wine Dinner

Saturday, January 28, 2017 — 6:30 p.m. Reception, 7:00 p.m. Dinner

Special Guest Speakers: Jeremy Doyle, Joel Gott Winery 
& Robert Rustico, Sommelier for Connecticut Distributors Inc. 

As part of their annual spring Cuisine Series, this wine dinner will feature Fresh Salt’s seasonal cuisine, perfectly paired with Joel Gott wines. Arrive at 6:30 p.m. for a cocktail hour with a featured drink, but don’t fill up on Hors d’oeurves. With five-courses of food and wine being served, you’ve got a long night of dining ahead.

JOEL GOTT WINE DINNER MENU

Cheese Table

Passed Hors d’oeuvres

Lamb Meatballs Pops, Crabmeat Cannoli, Lobster Arancini

Pinot Gris, Joel Gott, 2015, Willamette Valley, Oregon

First Course

Duck Confit Taco

Dark Cherry-Chipotle Salsa, Crumbled Goat Cheese

Sauvignon Blanc, Joel Gott, 2015, California

Second Course

Steel Head Trout

Shiitake-Leek Tart, Passion Fruit-Ginger Sauce

Chardonnay, Joel Gott, 2015, California

Third Course

Sweet & Spicy Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon

Butternut Squash Ravioli, Morel Mushroom Sauce

Pinot Noir, Joel Gott, 2014, Willamette Valley, Oregon

Fourth Course

Olive Oil Poached Halibut

Valencia Rice, Roasted White Asparagus, Fennel Saffron Sauce

Cabernet Sauvignon, Joel Gott, 2012, Napa Valley, CA

Fifth Course

Seven Sins Chocolate Cake

Chocolate Cake, Chocolate Frosting, Chocolate Ganache, Black Cherry Sauce

Grenache, Joel Gott, 2014, California

PLEASE CALL 860-339-1327 FOR RESERVATIONS

Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point

2 Bridge Street
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
860.395.2000
http://www.saybrook.com/restaurant/



About Saybrook Point

Situated along the picturesque shores of historic Old Saybrook, Connecticut, Saybrook Point features a collection of 100 elegantly-appointed guestrooms, a rejuvenating full-service SANNO spa, and casual fine dining restaurant Fresh Salt, as well as a unique waterside Lighthouse Suite. In addition, the historic Three Stories and Tall Tales luxury guesthouses offer exquisite rooms that convey the story of famous local residents. The pristine Saybrook Point Marina, a landmark boating destination conveniently located at the mouth of the Connecticut River, serves as a focal point for the Inn. More information is available at www.saybrook.com.

Silver Oak Wine Dinner at Foxwood's VUE 24

Social Media Promotion:  

Vue 24 and Silver Oak Cellars Wine Pairing Dinner

at Foxwoods Resort Casino

Around this time of year the hustle and bustle of the holidays starts kicking in and I begin to feel a little overwhelmed and a wee bit overextended. So, when Foxwood's Resort Casino's marketing team reached out to us with an invite to their upcoming Silver Oak Napa Valley Wine Dinner at Vue 24, I jumped at the chance!!

It just so happened to fall on the Thursday before my birthday so it offered the perfect opportunity to relax over a delicious dinner and discover some new California wines, that just may end up in someone's Christmas stocking! (shhhhh - it's our little secret, right??)

Vue 24 is located on the 24th floor of Foxwood's Grand Pequot Tower - and the panoramic views from their dining room are unparalleled. We arrived just in time to catch this beautiful sunset.

In spite of not being true "wine connoisseurs" we love these wine pairing dinners! You see, these dinners are quite informative to even the novice wine lover - and allows an opportunity to learn more about wines in general. What a great way to receive some tips for pairing wines for upcoming dinner parties or holiday gatherings!

This was the first time we sat in the lounge area of Vue 24 and there was quite a different vibe. A bit more casual and relaxed than the formal dining area, it was none the less an intimate and fun area to partake in a luxurious dinner and dining experience.

Hors d'oeuvres  were pre-set when we arrived along with a delicious 'not too sweet - and not too dry' - a Brut, Roederer Estate, from Anderson Valley, California. We toasted to a great evening of delicious wine, fun conversation, and amazing food!

Cheers!

Winemaker Notes: All the Anderson Valley wines are grown on the Estate, and each year, the winemaker selects a portion of the best wines for aging in Center of France oak casks. Aged from one to three years, wines from this reserve cellar are added to the blend, creating a multi-vintage cuvee in the traditional Roederer style, known for its body, finesse and depth of flavor.   Source: wine.com

Our starters for the evening included some delicious crostinis and cracked wheat flatbread with salmon, goat cheese, and beef with pickled onions. So tasty and the perfect start!

First Course Vue 24 Silver Oaks Wine Pairing Dinner

For our first course we had some delicious Pan Seared Atlantic Scallops with a Crispy Cured Pork Belly Spiral, prepared with Roasted Braeburn Apples, Petite Greens and a Connecticut Cider Beurre Blanc sauce drizzle.

Pan Seared Scallops at Vue 24

This was paired with a Napa Valley California Chardonnay from Napa Cellars.

Winemaker Notes: Classic Napa Valley Chardonnay characteristics unique to this region with aromas of fresh floral notes, toasted apple strudel, tangerine rind, and pear blossoms to excite the senses.  Source: wine.com

Main Course Boeuf Duo (loosely translated to Beef Duo)

Our main course was a delicious, perfectly cooked Shallot Butter Roasted Filet Mignon along with a melt in your mouth Cabernet Braised Short Rib prepared atop a Vanilla Scented Parsnip Puree, with green Cress garnish, and a Demi-Glace.

Chef Michael Yaffe never disappoints at these events, developing the most delicious sauces with each course and offering patrons items that are not typically offered. The parsnip puree was a big hit at our table, and we overheard others voicing the same pleasure!

Shallot Butter Roasted Filet Mignon,
the Cabernet Braised Short Rib is hidden beneath the greens!

The main course was accompanied by our host winery's Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, California. We loved this pairing - the Cabernet Sauvignon hit all the right notes with those delicious cuts of beef. It was bold and flavorful and our table voted this the best match of food and wine.

Winemaker Notes: An elegant representation of Napa Valley Cabernet from a cool vintage that presents an opaque garnet hue and reveals aromas of sandalwood and roasted meats. Flavors of vanilla, coffee beans and raspberries are buttressed by dusty tannins, firm acidity and a mouth-coating texture. Given proper cellaring, this wine should provide drinking pleasure through 2029. Source: wine.com

Finishing Dessert Course at Vue 24:

For our dessert course we were treated to a wonderful Pecan and Cranberry Tart with a Raspberry Sauce Garnish prepared by pastry chef extraordinaire, Franck Iglesias, who operates CAKE by Franck at Foxwoods Resort Casino.

Pecan Tart at Vue 24

The dessert course was paired with my favorite of the night (you KNOW I love my wines sweet) a Chiarlo Moscato d’Asti Nivole. This wine paired nicely with the sweet and tart flavors of our dessert.

Winemaker Notes: A sweet, fragrant, lightly sparkling wine has vivid aromas and flavors of peach, apricot, grapefruit and sage on a light body with a delicate finish typical of Moscato d’Asti. Source: wine.com

If you have the opportunity, be sure to attend a wine pairing dinner at Vue 24 to enjoy some informative background and history about your soon to be favorite wines, wineries, and vineyards - and enjoy the delicious foods and flavors that one of Foxwood's finest restaurants has to offer.

VUE 24 is located on the 24th floor

in the Grand Pequot Tower at Foxwoods Resort Casino

VUE 24 

Foxwoods Resort Casino
 350 Trolley Line Blvd.
 Mashantucket, CT 06338
1-800-369-9663
https://www.foxwoods.com/VUE-24/

About Foxwoods:

Foxwoods Resort Casino is the premier resort destination in the Northeast. As the largest resort casino in North America, Foxwoods offers a vast array of gaming in six casinos; AAA Four-Diamond hotels, restaurants from gourmet to quick service, world-renowned spas, award-winning golf, state-of-the-art theaters, and exclusive retailers. Perfect for both recreation and business, Foxwoods provides modern and versatile convention and meeting space to infuse new life into any meeting or event. Foxwoods Resort Casino is owned and operated by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. For a comprehensive look at Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation visit Foxwoods.com.

About Silver Oak Winery

For 40 years, Silver Oak has been producing exceptional, food-friendly Cabernets that are extensively aged to be drinkable upon release. Perfect for big dinners or impromptu celebrations, their Alexander Valley and Napa Valley Cabernet wines are as distinctive as they are delicious. For more information visit www.silveroak.com/

Disclaimer: I was invited to VUE 24 by members of the restaurant's management and marketing team, however, all views and opinions are my own.

© Home Place 2016

Wine Pairing Dinner at Ella's in Rhode Island on 9-21-16

Ella’s Fine Food & Drink to Host French Wine Dinner 

Chef Jeanie Roland’s Elegant Three-Course Menu Celebrates the Flavors of the Season with a French Influence

Ella’s Fine Food & Drink, a casually-elegant dining hot spot located at 2 Tower Street, in Westerly Rhode Island, will host a French-inspired wine dinner on Wednesday, September 21st.

Seven-time James Beard-nominated chef Jeanie Roland has created a three-course menu that will be paired perfectly with a selection of wines from throughout France.

The cost is $65.00 per person; tax and gratuity are additional.

For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.ellasfoodanddrink.com or call 401-315-0606.

The evening will begin with a reception at 6:30 p.m., featuring a selection of hors d’oeuvres, including Lobster Tartlets, Saigon Skewers with peanut sauce drizzle, and Truffled Pate Puff Bites with pear-ginger compote.

Dinner will begin with grilled and butter-poached Swordfish with a tomato, peach, and apricot confit and paired with the 2014 Domaine Les Chardons Sauvignon Blanc. From the Loire Valley, this Sauvignon Blanc has lovely aromas and flavors that range from crisp cucumbers to lemon drops.

The second course will feature a Trio of Duck: salad of frisée and smoked duck; foie gras fondue; and a crispy duck confit dumpling with berry glacé, complemented by the smoky dark berries, minerals, and candied licorice notes of the 2013 Chateau Montmirail Cuvee de Beauchamp Gigondas, a Rhone red blend rated a ‘90’ by Vinous.

A third course of Boudreaux Risotto with Wild Mushrooms & Grilled Octopus with saba, aged balsamic, and brown butter will follow, paired with the 2011 Chante Perdrix Chateauneuf du Pape, rated a ‘91’ by the International Wine Report for its notes of dark cherries, plums, spices, and roasted herbs; rich, silky texture; and long, velvety finish.

About Ella’s Fine Food & Drink

Ella’s Fine Food & Drink, located at 2 Tower Street in Westerly, RI, opened in 2011 by Chef Jeanie Roland, a seven-time James Beard nominated Chef, and her husband and business manager, James Roland.  A premier dining destination for coastal, southern New England, Ella’s features French-Asian inspired fare imbued with Chef Roland’s passion for cooking with the freshest seasonal ingredients. In her pursuit of perfection, everything is made from scratch, from breads to desserts and everything in between, and menus change frequently in an effort to highlight the best available ingredients and to challenge Chef Roland and her culinary team. She has been quoted as saying that perhaps, "she has yet to create her best dish!"


In addition to being a seven-time James Beard nominee in two regions, Chef Roland is one of a select few contestants to “Beat Bobby Flay” on the Food Network.  In 2016, Ella’s was named in the Top Five restaurants for overall cuisine in all of New England by OpenTable

Opus One Wine Pairing Dinner at Vue 24 Foxwoods

Social Media Promotion

At Foxwood's VUE 24

A few weeks back we received an invitation to visit Foxwoods Resort Casino's newest restaurant, VUE 24, to participate in a wine pairing dinner featuring Opus One Wines.

We loved the restaurant in its previous life as Paragon Restaurant, and we had also tasted a few of their items at the SAVOR CT press event over the winter, so we were excited to be able to return to experience their full dining experience. It's certainly one of the best views of southeast Connecticut, and add in the Opus One wine pairing and it was a win-win!

Upon arrival we were served some bubbly, and offered our choice of either the Gerard Bertrand Cremant de Limoux Brut Cuvee or the Rosé, Thomas Jefferson 2013. Both were oh so good - but I loved the sweet rosé, of course!

Accompanying the sparkling wines were some appetizers - and while all were good, I absolutely loved the goat cheese crostini and the smoked salmon. Everything was prepared and plated so beautifully.

Mushroom Crostini

Smoked Salmon Crisps

Tuna Tartar

Goat Cheese Crostini with Greek Olives

We listened to some cool jazz tones from Vue 24's resident piano man, and our hosts representing Opus One Wines and Hartley Parker Distributors gave us a bit of background on the wines and welcomed up to VUE 24!

My friend Wendy from Connecticut Lifestyles is always telling me to slow down and relax and enjoy the full dining experience, to take in the ambiance of the restaurant and chat with our fellow dining companions..

Our hosts for the evening voiced similar sentiments. Dining out, especially at someplace as beautiful as Vue 24 is an experience to be savored and enjoyed.

Dine out well. Dine out often. And dine out with friends.

Enjoy the experience!

A toast to good friends and fine food and wine!

Here are some of the delicious courses we experienced.

Our first course was a Rainbow Trout with Honey Roasted Turnips and Citrus Cured Celery. This course was accompanied by Robert Mondavi Oakville Fume Blanc 2013, a delicious white wine.

Rainbow Trout

For our second course we enjoyed Pork Belly with Grilled Baby Gem Lettuce, Roasted Plums, and Cracklings.  This was served with a robust Opus One Napa Valley 2012, a wine comprised of a mix of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec.

Pork Belly

Our last course was a Coffee Dusted Filet Mignon with King Oyster Mushrooms, Cipollini Onions, and a Black Currant Demi-Glace paired with Opus One Napa Valley 2010.

Filet Mignon

For dessert, we enjoyed a Spring Rhubarb Tart which was accompanied by a Robert Mondavi Moscato d’Oro 2013.

Rhubarb Tart

Our hosts (and my friend Wendy) are right! A wine pairing dinner is an experience to be enjoyed with great friends, good music, fine food, and amazing wine.

Thank you Foxwoods, VUE 24, and Opus Wines for having us! We can't wait for your next special event!

I know YOU'LL enjoy it too. Visit them soon!

VUE 24 is located on the 24th floor in the Grand Pequot Tower at Foxwoods.

Foxwoods Resort Casino

 350 Trolley Line Blvd.
 Mashantucket, CT 06338
1-800-369-9663

https://www.foxwoods.com/VUE-24/

Disclaimer: I was invited to VUE 24 by members of the restaurant's management and marketing team, however, all views and opinions are my own. 

About Foxwoods:

Foxwoods Resort Casino is the premier resort destination in the Northeast. As the largest resort casino in North America, Foxwoods offers a vast array of gaming in six casinos; AAA Four-Diamond hotels, restaurants from gourmet to quick service, world-renowned spas, award-winning golf, state-of-the-art theaters, and exclusive retailers. Perfect for both recreation and business, Foxwoods provides modern and versatile convention and meeting space to infuse new life into any meeting or event. Foxwoods Resort Casino is owned and operated by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. For a comprehensive look at Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation visit Foxwoods.com.

© Home Place 2016

Justin and Landmark Wine Dinner June 7th at David Burke Prime Foxwoods

JUSTIN & Landmark Vineyards Wine Dinner 

Tuesday, June 7th at 

David Burke Prime - Foxwoods Resort Casino

Join David Burke Prime at Foxwoods Resort Casino for an exclusive evening and dinner with JUSTIN and Landmark Vineyards.

Executive Chef Pedro Avila and Sommelier Julian Holme have created a special 5-Course menu with wine pairings designed to compliment each incredible dish.

JUSTIN & Landmark Vineyards Wine Dinner, June 7

FIRST COURSE - 

Oyster-Lobster Shooter*
osetra caviar, quail egg, spicy heirloom tomato gazpacho
Justin Sauvignon Blanc 2014

SECOND COURSE - 

Candied Bacon & Seared Stonington Scallops*
english peas, beet coulis, himalayan salt
Landmark Overlook Chardonnay 2013

THIRD COURSE - 

Foie Gras-Stuffed Quail Tagine
blueberry gastrique, crispy grapes, brioche
Landmark Overlook Pinot Noir 2013

FOURTH COURSE -

60-Day Dry-Aged Boneless Sirloin*
goat cheese polenta, shallot confit, red wine sauce
Justin Justification 2012

FIFTH COURSE - 

Pomegranate-Poached Pear
cognac glaze, vanilla cheesecake, candied pecans
Justin Obtuse 2012

*Items marked with an asterisk can be cooked to order. Consuming undercooked meat, poultry, seafood, shellfish and eggs may increase your risk of food-borne illness, especially if you have certain medical concerns.

SPECIAL GUESTS 

Founder Justin Baldwin and Winemaker Greg Stach will be on hand to discuss their process, history, and vision.

CALL (860) 312- 8753 TO RESERVE

View Menu Here

David Burke Prime is located at the restaurant level 
in the Grand Pequot Tower

 Foxwoods Resort Casino

 350 Trolley Line Blvd.
 Mashantucket, CT 06338

http://www.davidburkeprime.com/index.php

860.312.8753

About David Burke Prime:

David Burke Prime is the classic New York steakhouse set amid the excitement of one of the world's largest casinos, Foxwoods. Vibrant and vast, Prime features classic and creative preparations of the world's finest steaks, aged in an on-premises patented salt-brick aging room, as well as seafood, chops and more. With a supremely-stocked 3,000-bottle wine tower and attentive and knowledgeable service, Prime will ensure that you score and 'A' on your beef exam.

About Foxwoods

Foxwoods Resort Casino is the premier resort destination in the Northeast. As the largest resort casino in North America, Foxwoods offers a vast array of gaming in six casinos; AAA Four-Diamond hotels, restaurants from gourmet to quick service, world-renowned spas, award-winning golf, state-of-the-art theaters, and exclusive retailers. Perfect for both recreation and business, Foxwoods provides modern and versatile convention and meeting space to infuse new life into any meeting or event. Foxwoods Resort Casino is owned and operated by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. For a comprehensive look at Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation visit Foxwoods.com.

Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point Argentinian Wine Pairing Dinner

Now here's an event not to be missed!

The Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point Argentinian Wine Dinner

Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point

Prepare to enjoy an international culinary journey featuring reds and whites from one of the world’s most historic wine producing regions

That's right, Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point is hosting a unique food and wine dinner featuring reds and whites from Argentina, one of the world’s most historic wine-producing regions. Held on Saturday, April 16, the dinner will feature signature Argentinian cuisine creatively prepared by Saybrook Point’s  talented Private Event and Banquet Chef Bill Titus and Fresh Salt Chef d’ Cuisine Gesé Rodriguez.

Paired with an exceptional selection of Argentinian Wines,  the evening begins at 6:30 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres featuring a selection of fine South American cheeses and cured meats, along with Fried Plantain, Mini Chori Pan (Grilled Chorizo, Onion, Pepper Relish), Manchego-Grilled Polenta with Quince Glaze, and Fogaza; served with 2015 Portillo Sauvignon Blanc

The five-course meal consists of:

• Seafood Empanada with Crabmeat, Scallop, Shrimp and Tomato Chimichurro paired with 2014 Killka Torrontes; 
• Carbonata Criolla, (Lamb Stew with Butternut Squash, Corn, Pear, Peach and Potato Gnocchi), served with 2012 Salentein Reserve Cabernet ; 
• Roast Duck Breast with Grilled Sticky Rice Cake, Caramelized Apples, Charred Cauliflower and Fennel, matched with 2012 Salentein Reserve Cabernet.   
• The final entrée offers New York Sirloin Matambre Roulade stuffed with Black Bean and Zucchini Fritters, and Salsa Criolla, complemented by the 2012 Salentein Numina.  

The evening concludes with

• A decadent Chocotorta Dulce de Leche Cake from Pastry Chef Stephanie Schroeder, 
• Organic and Free-trade Saybrook Point Lighthouse Custom Coffee. 

Seaside Wine and Spirits from Old Saybrook and Spirits of Madison will be in attendance, and guests can place orders for their favorite wine of the evening at specially reduced prices.  The Argentinian Wine Dinner at Saybrook Point’s Fresh Salt is $99.50/person plus tax and service charge.  Reservations are necessary and may be made by calling the Fresh Salt reservations line at 860.339-1318

Where: Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point
When: Saturday, April 16, at 6:30pm
Cost: $99.50 per person plus tax and service charge

Reservations are required. Call Fresh Salt at 860.339.1318

Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point

2 Bridge Street
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
860.395.2000
http://www.saybrook.com/restaurant/



About Saybrook Point

Situated along the picturesque shores of historic Old Saybrook, Connecticut, Saybrook Point features a collection of 100 elegantly-appointed guestrooms, a rejuvenating full-service SANNO spa, and casual fine dining restaurant Fresh Salt, as well as a unique waterside Lighthouse Suite. In addition, the historic Three Stories and Tall Tales luxury guesthouses offer exquisite rooms that convey the story of famous local residents. The pristine Saybrook Point Marina, a landmark boating destination conveniently located at the mouth of the Connecticut River, serves as a focal point for the Inn. More information is available at www.saybrook.com.

Paragon Dinner Pairing with Quintessa Wines

The beautiful Paragon Restaurant at Foxwoods Resort and Casino in Connecticut was the location of a recent wine pairing dinner, celebrating the wines of Huneeus Vinters and featuring the Quintessa Winery.

Upon arrival we were greeted with a glass of Flowers Chardonnay (Sonoma Coast 2013) and enjoyed some delicious passed hors d'oeuvres

Welcome to Paragon Restaurant at Foxwoods

Passed Hors d'Ouvres & Wine Pairing

Our small bites course was a wonderful pairing of wine and appetizers. Each one was delicately prepared to offer the perfect blend of flavors in each morsel.

Flowers Chardonnay Sonoma Coast 2013 

Winemaker Notes: Light straw hue. Lively aromas of Meyer lemon zest and lime blossom are underscored with hints of crisp Comice pear and crushed, coastal stones. The palate confirms the nose and is heightened by a driving minerality and vibrant acidity that carries through on the lingering finish

Paragon Restaurant - Small Bites (passed)

Paragon paired this crisp Chardonnay with four delicious small bite appetizers. While each was delightful, my personal favorite was the Point Judith Skate Wing, the subtle heat from the Chili Anchovy Paste was amazing and made for a nice contrast with the bright flavored wine.

Left: Reister Farms Lamb with Toasted Barley, 

Top Right: Crunchy Scottish Highland Grass Fed Lemon Meatballs, 

Middle Right: Chilled Bomster Scallop with Passion-Bamboo Rice, 

Bottom Right: Point Judith Skate Wing with Chili-Anchovy “Paste”, 

First Course - Salad & Wine Pairing

Our first course consisted of a beautifully presented seafood salad with a hearty red wine.

The Prisoner Red 2013

The Wine Advocate: “This dense, full-bodied, opulent red reveals gutsy, rich, peppery, meaty, blackberry, black currant and licorice notes.  A savory, lusty, heady red.” 

Paragon Restaurant: House Gin Cured King Salmon Salad

The salad was not only beautiful, it was hearty and deliciously briny, with a nod to Paragon's Italian roots with hints of Mediterranean flavors.

House Gin Cured King Salmon with two hour pickled veggie slaw, parsley oil, smeared capers

Second Course & Wine Pairing

We kept with the pairing of reds with seafood dishes for our second course.

Faust Cabernet Sauvignon 

The Wine Advocate - "The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Faust is designed as a second wine so that only the top lots end up in the Quintessa. It exhibits a dense ruby/purple color, sweet creme de cassis fruit, chocolate, licorice and underbrush characteristics in a delicious, fruit-forward, open-knit style. Enjoy it over the next decade or more."

Paragon Restaurant:  Town Dock's Monkfish 

The Cabernet Sauvignon paired beautifully with Paragon's Monfish.

Town Docks Monkfish, with razor clam hash, house bacon, summer corn-saffron bouillabaisse

Entree Course & Wine Pairing

Quintessa Red 2011

Connoisseurs' Guide - "Deep, beautifully focused, ripe currant fruit teams with lovely oak sweetness from beginning to end here, and, while the two are stunning and as neatly fit as can be, the wine goes beyond fruit and the barrel with layers of dusty soil and mineral complexities running its length. It is both substantial and uncannily sleek and light on its feet, and it is structured as to age famously. Its tannins are ample yet fine enough to allow mid-term drinking, but we have every reason to believe that this outstanding offering will only grow better and better over the course of the next ten years."

Another successful pairing with Chef's delicious veal offering.

Paragon Restaurant:  Naturally Raised Veal Tenderloin

Naturally Raised Veal Tenderloin, with late season morels, local asparagus, rich cabernet-marrow glace

Finishing Course Dessert & Wine Pairing

Thorn Merlot 2012

Winemaker's Notes: Deep purple in color, releasing aromas of black cherry with hints of cedar and pencil lead. Dense flavors of dark fruits and rich plum are framed by velvety tannins and a lush finish.

Dessert: Organic Chocolate Crémeux pistachio sable, roasted cherries, vanilla tonka bean cream, pistachio chantilly

From start to finish this was a wonderful wine pairing dinner. Each wine was described in detail by the Huneeus team, and each course was not only delicious and plated beautifully, but any questions about preparation were promptly answered by by Renato, our knowledgeable waiter. 

This was my first time dining at Paragon, and it most certainly will not be my last. The atmosphere was quite lovely, service was impeccable, food was fabulous, and the views from the 24th floor are indescribable.

In addition, the wines were thoughtfully selected to accompany each course perfectly.

A memorable wine pairing dinner!

Kudo's to Foxwoods Paragaon and Huneeus Vintners for a wonderful event!


Paragon Restaurant
24th Floor - Grand Pequot Tower
Foxwoods Resort Casino
350 Trolley Line Boulevard
Mashantucket, CT 06338-3777

1-800-369-9663

http://www.foxwoods.com/paragon.aspx

For more on the Quintessa Winery visit: https://www.quintessa.com/

For more on the Huneeus Vintners visit: http://www.huneeusvintners.com/


Disclaimer: We were invited to the wine pairing by Foxwoods management and marketing team, however all opinions expressed are our own.