Nine years, but who’s counting. This is column # 463 for TASTE OF WINE and it seems like yesterday only because there is so much yet to know about this vast wine world. Can’t wait to taste what’s around the corner. And it has such a way to go since only 20% of Americans drink over 90% of all wine consumed. Most wines bought are $12.per bottle or less.
There are about 7,200 wineries in the U.S. The largest is Gallo with 75 million cases produced yearly. Each one of these American consumers buys about 12 bottles a year. We’ve got a ways to go here….the Vatican City in Italy consumes about 95 bottles a year while France is 2nd with 60 bottles per person.
They’re celebrating at the Grand Del Mar resort in San Diego as Chef William Bradley of Addison Restaurant was the winner of the Robb Report Culinary Masters Competition. He showcased his 5 course winning dinner and was nominated by the legendary Thomas Keller of Napa’s French Laundry. This was quickly followed by the Grand’s award of the #1 hotel in the U.S. by the esteemed Trip Advisor, Forbes Five Star and AAA Five Diamond Rankings. Its’ been a track record of excellence for the 6 years this luxurious retreat has wowed guests from around the world.
My friends at Wine Spectator have found that we have a frightening weather problem that is hanging like a black cloud over the winemaking industry. Last year was the driest on record in California, and to date, 2014 looks worse than that. Thousands of vineyards are getting nervous. Only 2 inches have been recorded in wine countries where there should be nearly 13. Anyone for a rain dance?
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse launched a new steak and wine menu, featuring dry-aged steaks, for a richer , bolder flavor. Another breakthrough is the Fleming’s 100 featuring 100 wines by the glass. This includes 30 wines of exceptional value for $10.or less.
Valentines Day Wine Dinners
February 14th, as all kind hearted romantics know, is the Feast of St. Valentine or simply Valentines Day. We prefer feast, and there are some lovely destinations that will gladly welcome you and your wine and dine partner to their premises. Here are some of my favorites.
Morada in the Rancho Santa Fe Inn is a low key, classically presented dinner house with comfortable surroundings. A three course dinner plus dessert is offered with three choices per entrée at $78. per person, with optional wine pairings for an additional $30. RSVP at 858-381-8289.
Marina Kitchen at the Marriott offers a Valentines “Date on the Water” overlooking San Diego Bay in a three course dinner for $55. each. Guests receive a complimentary amuse bouche from Executive Chef Aron Schwartz. Three choices per course. For $25. more, guests can enjoy expert wine pairings. Reservations at619-699-8222.
Twenty/20 in Carlsbad has a delicious three course pre-fixe menu for $50. per person, plus regular menu. Three choices for the main entrée. RSVP at 760-827-2500.
Amaya at the Grand Del Mar presents a 4 course Valentines tasting dinner from 5:30 to 10pm. $135. per person, $185. with wine pairings. RSVP at 858-314-2727.
In Temecula Wine Country, consider Pinnacle Restaurant in the Falkner Winery with its dramatic overlook. Enjoy a 4 course dinner, wine pairings and live entertainment. $79. per person. Early seating and wine club $69. Call for a reservation at 951-676-8231 ext 1.
Wine Bytes
- It’s Spanish night at Meritage Wine Market in Encinitas Sat. Feb. 8 from 6 to 9pm. This Paella Party will have a celebrity chef for the evening. Paired with 4 Spanish wines. $50. ea. Call 760-479-2500 for an RSVP.
- Firefly Grill & Wine Bar in Encinitas has a Dierberg Wine Dinner Mon. Feb. 10 beginning at 6:30pm. 4 wine-inspired courses topped by a Wild Boar Duo paired with the Dierberg 2010 Syrah. Dierberg is a luscious group of wines in the Central California Coast. RSVP at 760-635-1066.
- Encinitas Wine Merchants and Bar brings TV’s The Bachelor for an appearance Tues. Feb. 11 from 5 to 8:30pm. Celebrity BEN FLAJNIK will be introducing his ENVOLVE wines of Sonoma. Two appearances pouring 4 wines each: 5 to 6:45pm and 7 to 8:45pm. Pre paid tickets for $25. RSVP and more details at 760-407-4265 or Ellena Cassidy at 858-945-1029.
Frank Mangio is a renowned San Diego wine connoisseur certified by Wine Spectator. He is one of the leading wine commentators on the web. View and link up with his columns at www.tasteofwinetv.com. Reach him atmangiompc@aol.com.
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