Wine and Food Pairing 101

Wine and Food Pairing 101

It’s been awhile since we held our last wine and food event at the store, and we’re really excited about this one. It will take place on Thursday, August 23 from 7 to 9 p.m., and Les and Barb Norman will again be our Chefs de Cuisine. They’re just back from a culinary trip to New Orleans where they dined at some of the city’s top restaurants and they’ve planned a wonderful, 5 course, small plate tasting menu, and we’ve picked out wines to go with each course. Keep in mind that New Orleans cuisine is not all gumbo and jambalaya – some of the best restaurants in the city serve tremendous French-inspired cuisine using simple, fresh ingredients jazzed up with sauces and accompaniments.

If you’ve never been to one of these tastings at the store, keep in mind that it’s pretty much like going to a restaurant for a wine dinner. We have tables and chairs, and you will be served each course along with a 2.5 ounce pour of each wine, and the average retail cost on the wines is $30 per bottle. You will leave full, happy and with a better understanding of the interplay between wine and food.

The cost is $60 per person or $50 if you’re a Grape Nut and is all inclusive. The menu and wines are listed below. Please call us at the store at 828.505.8588 to reserve your spot and pre-pay.

1. Grilled Watermelon Salad
Garden Greens and Tomatoes
Paired with 2011 J.J. Prum Riesling Kabinett

2. Grilled Romaine Salad
Pine Nuts, Black Forest Lardons, and Parmesan
Paired with 2011 Domaine du Bagnol Cassis Rosé

3. Gnocchi in Cream Sauce
Truffle Cream Sauce with Parmesan
Paired with 2008 Van Duzer Pinot Noir “Estate”

4. Braised Pork Belly
Smoky Tomato and Cilantro Broth and Baby Vegetables
Paired with 2009 Chateau les Barraillots Margaux

5. Frangipane Apple Tart
Paired with 2009 Chevalier du Pastel Sauternes