Monday, September 7, 2015

Sips & Tips for Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab

Bordeaux.  Celebrated and decorated more than almost any other wine region, the mere mention of the word evokes thoughts of big, beautiful, timeless wines. Every year, throngs of the world's most renown collectors come together to admire these powerful and age-worthy reds from the regions surrounding the Gironde estuary, hoping to add the finest to their repertoire. From September 21-27, Joe’s will be pouring the following unique selections, which will offer a glimpse into Bordeaux's diverse style of wines.

Although the red wines of Bordeaux tend to take the spotlight, it is the white wines that constantly expand my love of this region. The 2013 Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte “Les Hauts de Smith Blanc”, Pessac-Leognan, France $8 3oz / $16 6oz is a wonderful example of the oft overlooked Sauvignon Blanc from the birthplace of the grape varietal.  The vibrant golden color is a beautiful introduction to the aromas of white fruit and acacia flowers, followed by ripe peach, with a bit of stone flint and mineral on the palate.  This is a great match for our Famous Stone Crab.

The wine region of Saint-Emilion is home to some of the finest expressions of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, and quite often the price tag will reflect that quality. The 2009 Chateau Franc Mayne, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Classe, France $10 3oz / $20 6oz is a rare exception in price, but not quality. Inviting aromas of blueberry and espresso immediately jump from the glass. Full and rich on the palate, the silky tannins and velvety finish provide a wonderful partner for Joe’s Filet Mignon.

Often regarded as the finest wine appellation in the world, Pauillac is the quintessential wine growing region for Cabernet Sauvignon lovers. Located on the left bank of the Gironde, amongst some of the most prized vineyards in the world, the 2005 Chateau d’Armailhac, Pauillac Grand Cru Classe, France $14 3oz / $28 6oz is a powerhouse at a fraction of the price of their next door neighbors. From the exceptional 2005 vintage, the wine is alluring with floral notes and blackberry on the nose. Bold black fruits with a slightly smoky oak on the finish create a perfect match for our Bone-In Rib Eye.

If you’ve never had the opportunity to experience the elegance of the wines from Sauternes, do yourself a favor and order a glass of 2006 Chateau Suduiraut, Sauternes, France $15 3oz. Known for their fine dessert wines, which impart meticulous harvesting techniques, this glass will not disappoint!   Perfumed notes of honeysuckle and ripe pineapple give way to  hints of peach cobbler on the palate. This rare gem is the perfect match for our Havana Dream Pie.

Wine Tip: Vintage is very important when it comes to selecting wines from Bordeaux. Here's a quick list of a few of today's best vintages in Bordeaux: 2010 / 2009 / 2005 / 2000 / 1990 / 1982 / 1961


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