In a Fowl Mood

August 13, 2011


Sometimes we get an idea in our heads and it won’t go away until it is executed, only then will that specific and persistent desire be satisfied. In this case, it was a night of duck and Pinot Noir with a good friend. My close friend and fellow hedonist, Brian and I were inspired to create a menu around the acquisition of local duck while digging into the cellar to enjoy some great Pinot. The idea came nearly two years ago and on this day it was finally realized. Better late than never!

Brian both conceived and expertly executed the menu which was leisurely enjoyed over a four hour period. We began with grilled Squid & Shallot on a small bed of sautéed Chard. This was served warm and was drizzled with lemon and olive oil. Next came a Leek, Pecorino and Lamb Pizza. Adorned with local ripe cherry tomotoes. An utterly tantalizing concoction of flavor and texture. The coup de grace and main course was a Fennel-Scented Duck Breast w/ Pinot Noir sauce on a Potato Leek Puree. An absolutely delicious dish that certainly lived up to our two years of anticipation. A little touch of sweetness to finish and this was an overall amazing afternoon and evening.

The Lineup:

TerraDora Greco di Tufo 2009**+
Expertly paired with a grilled squid and shallot antipasto. Showed wonderfully bright acidity while giving just enough fruit to make this wine both wonderfully fresh but also quite interesting.

Lange Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2008**
Nice wine, especially for the price point. Simple fruit and quite tasty. This was a nice interlude and warm-up for the big boys.

Talley Vineyards Pinot Noir Rincon Vineyard 2004***
A big and rich wine showing a reflection of both the vintage and producer. Deep dark notes of black plums, dark cherries, and damp earth. This was quite nice and a great pairing to the lamb pizza.

Kosta Browne Pinot Noir Amber Ridge Vineyard 2006***
Bright red perfumed fruit on the nose leading to a mouth-filling palate of black rasperries. This kept with the lighter stylistic notes of the 2006 vintage, but was solidly rooted in classic KB complexity. Fantastic pairing with the duck.

Brachetto d’Acqui**
Fruity and light, a wonderful way to finish. These wines are so easy to drink, it’s a good thing they are only 6% alcohol!

I am again reminded that I am truly blessed with the continued company of good friends and the enjoyment and abundance of delectable food and drink. A special thanks to Brian for a truly memorable evening.

Cheers!


0 Stars - No rating
1 Star (*) - Not of significant quality or interest
2 Stars (**) - A notable wine of legitimate interest
3 Stars (***) - Great wine that should be searched out
4 Stars (****) - Fantastic wine that should not be missed
5 Stars (*****) - An absolutely mind-bending wine - beg, borrow, or steal to get your hands on some of this amazing juice!

Disclaimer: This rating is based on my palate and at the given time when tasted and may differ from yours. Also, I may catch a bottle in a dumb phase or it just may not speak to me at that particular time.