Event Reviews and Photos

Annual Bastille Day Celebration Saturday, July 12 2008

WINEMAKERS DINNER, Saturday, July 25, 2008

June 8, 2008  New Members Event

The Wine & Food Society of Oregon sponsored our New Members Event on June 8th at Parallel 45 Wine Bar on the Tualatin Commons.  This year's event was organized by Membership Chair Jim Galbraith and Vice President Mara Kershaw.  Although they would like to take credit for planning the beautiful weather, which allowed everyone to enjoy visiting and tasting members' favorite wines outside, they bowed to a higher deity. 

Eighteen new and current members invited fourteen friends, co-workers, clients, neighbors and acquaintances as their guests for an afternoon on the Commons to meet our members and hear more about what our group offers wine and food enthusiasts.  Society Chairman Jim Atwood christened the event by opening bottles of Veuve Cliquot and Perrier Jouet champagne using his sabre techniques for our guests to enjoy.  Our members and guests brought some of their favorite wines to share with one another, including a great 1975 Ch. Lascombes from Margaux from Greg Bunnell's collection and a 2005 Viognier and Merlot from Alexandria Nicole Cellars from Bill & Pat Kimmer--wines that will be highlighted at their upcoming Winemaker Dinner event at Restaurant Bleu on July 25th.

The event venue and an array of tasty appetizers were provided by Parallel 45 onwer and wine enthusiast Steve Sweeney.  The food included a great dungeness crab dip (Steve was hesitant to provide us with the recipe), tomato bruschetta dish, antipasto platters, hummus with grilled flat bread and a flavorful pasta dish with bleu cheese and balsamic vinaigrette salad.  He was very impressed with our group and enjoyed talking with many of our members and guests.  Parallel 45 is a great, cozy wine bar in the newer Tualatin Commons area:  http://p45winebar.com/.  If you haven't tried it after work or during a lazy Saturday afternoon, you really should stop by and say hello to Steve who treats you like a guest in his home.

Jim Galbraith, Membership Chair

  6:00 PM, SATURDAY, JUNE  21, 2008

ANTICA TERRA SUMMER SOLSTICE VERTICAL TASTING AND DINNER

Kincaid’s Fish,Steak & Chophouse, 121 SW 3^rd Avenue, Portland

In 1999 the Wine & Food Society of Oregon, Inc. blind tasted about 18 Oregon Pinot Noirs from the 1997 vintage in the restaurant called Atwater’s (now Portland City Grill).  Afterwards, everyone voted for his or her three favorite wines.  Then the brown bags were removed from the bottles after the votes were tallied.  The First Place Winner was a “Newcomer” that no one in the Society had even heard of; a new boutique winery called: Antica Terra.  They sold their wine by word of mouth and delivered it personally. We first visited the “winery” after the blind tasting in 1999. I think by that vintage they were up to about 4 barrels of wine.  I barrel tasted their work in process. The juice from their vineyard on the hill came from stressed vines and was rather tannic. The juice from the valley floor was very fruity but sort of flabby. But after they blended the two together, the results were remarkable.  

We met in the Lounge for a Reception featuring Appetizers of Kobe Meatloaf Sliders, Teriyaki Tenderloin, and Macadamia Nut Crusted Warm Brie. We enjoyed the famous 1997 vintage during the reception. Then tasted the 1998 vintage with a choice of French Onion Soup or Maytag Blue Cheese Salad. Richard Stinson surprised us with a bottle of 1999 Antica Terra to complete the Vertical Tasting. Finally, the 2000 and 2001 vintages were tasted with choice of a 14 oz. Center Cut New York, a 20 oz. Bone In Ribeye, or a Bone In Bison New York served with Jalapeno Butter and Molasses Baked Beans.  Everyone went “crazy” about the wines. 

In particular, the 1997 had no carmel edges whatsoever and tasted as fresh as a 2006 Pinot Noir. We didn’t think anything could be better than the 1997 until we tasted the 1998.  It was full flavored and even better than the 1997. The 1999 started off tannic and became much better with time in the glass.  2000 showed continued consistency: Old World nose; Candy and Spices on the Palate; too youthful to drink.  Likewise on the 2001.  These wines just needed more age.  Group’s favorite was 1998 vintage followed by the 1997. A great time was had by all.

WFSO/CONFRERIE MEMBERS TOUR BORDEAUX, FRANCE 

Wine & Food Society and Confrerie des Vignerons de Saint Vincent members Judy Erdman, Richard Stinson, Arlene Hardwood, Steve Lutz, Kimberly Mick, Roger Wooley, John and Jaydene Chandler and WFSO members, Bill and Pat Kimmer and Jim Atwood and Dana Miller accompany other members of Confrerie in Bordeaux, France the first week in May.  We had the most fabulous tours and tastings in St. Emillion, Bordeaux, Pauillac and the Sauterne areas.  We visited Chateau’s Yon Figeac, Margaux, Palmer, Prieure-Lichine, Giscours, Mouton Rothschild,  Leoville Barton, Gruard Larose, Beychevelle, Suduiraut, D’Yquem, Climens, Lynch-Bages, Pape Clement, Haut Brion, Pontet-Canet, Haut-Bailly and Smith Haut Lafitte.    Some of us also visited the chalk caves and toured the Champagne houses of Taittinger, Pommery, Ruinart and Mumm.

Our French winery guides were all very gracious and treated us like royalty.  

A few of us took pre-Bordeaux trips to other parts of France.   One group went to Sarlot, a beautiful medieval village in the heart of the Perigord region and were able to experience a gourmet’s dream farmer’s market filled with booths of truffle oils, French cheeses, sausages of every imaginable kind (wild boar, deer, herb, bull, mushroom, duck, etc.), walnut cakes, fresh herbs and vegetables, incredible spice selections and a marching brass band to boot!  Another group visited wineries in the Loire and enjoyed the tastings and tours there along with the surrounding beautiful French countryside.

May 31, 2008 Tequila Event

A “SHOCKING” WINE EXPERIENCE  7:00 PM, SATURDAY, APRIL 19, 2008

MERIWETHER RESTAURANT, 2601 NW VAUGHN, PORTLAND - 97210

The Wine & Food Society of Oregon sponsored a vertical tasting of all 4 vintages of the Silvan Ridge WFSO cuvee Oregon Pinot Noir. All wines were stored in the personal cellar of Society Chairman Jim Atwood except for the 1999 vintage which was from the cellar of Fred and Avon Holmes; who organized the event. 

The wines were all “shockingly” good.  As many of you already know, Silvan Ridge hosted blending parties following the 1999 through 2002 vintages. Our members chose the best blend each vintage and Silvan Ridge made one barrel of our private cuvee.  They sold the wines to us for about one half their value. 

In the early years, the wines were going through cycles and not very many people liked drinking them young.  But now that they have aged, WOW!  Members in attendance that had chances to buy didn’t and those who drank the wines young regretted not having them available now. 

The meal was great too. But we were really expecting a very good meal with some so-so wines. It turned out that the wines were even better than the food.  We didn’t vote on the group favorite vintage.  But from conversations around the table, it was apparent the 1999 (eldest vintage) and the 2002 (youngest vintage) were the favorites. 

We also enjoyed NV Perrier Jouet Champagne with an appetizer of Chickpea Frittes.  Then 2006 Cooper Mountain Reserve Pinot Gris with the salad.  Gnocci pasta was served with the 2002 and 2001 vintages. Then we had a choice of Fresh Chinook Spring Salmon or Hanger Steak with the 2000 and 1999 vintages. 

We express our appreciation to Chef Tommy Habetz, Sous Chef Nick Wood, and owners John and Renee Orlando and David Oringdulph. If you haven’t yet tried Meriwether Restaurant, you really should. 

Jim Atwood, Chairman

Saturday, April 19^th, 2008

Silvan Ridge Tasting Event

6:300PM, MARCH 29, 2008

1998 CHATEAUNEUF du PAPE DINNER @ HEATHMAN HOTEL

This event was a big HIT.  The 1998 vintage Chateauneuf du Pape wines represent a sumptuously great vintage for this appellation.  Hats off to members Sue and Ed Kingzett for organizing this wonderful event.  The Heathman hotel, as usual, did a fabulous job on the food and service.  Passed Hors d'Oeurves of Duck Breast and Confit of Duck leg were enjoyed with two white Chateauneuf du Papes during the reception.

Next was Heathman's Pate’ Maison  on Rye Croustade with Fruited Mustard.  Then, Wild Boar Bolognese -- this was right on the money: preparation, flavors, and ingredients I would expect in one of Italy's best restaurants.  Followed by a generous portion of Applewood bacon wrapped fallow venison, Bourbon glazed squash with wild Mushrooms and huckleberry sauce.  Plated fresh soft cheeses.  And three types (dark, milk, and white) of chocolate Pots de Crème for dessert.

Member Dr. Mark Lindau (who has retired as of March 28th) will give us a detailed report on the wines in next month's Newsletter.  But the red 1998 Chateauneuf du Papers we tasted were: Paul Autard Cuvee La Cote Ronde, Beaucastel, Bousquet des Papes, Bousquet des Papes cuvee Chantemerla, Chateau de la Gardine cuvee des Generations, Domaine de la Janesse Chaupin, Domaine du Pegau cuvee Reserve, Vieux Telegraphe, Le Vieux Donjon, Pierre Usseglio cuvee de mon Aieul, and Chapoutier la Bernadine.

Sincerely,

Jim Atwood, Chariman 

Greg Bunnell also has an extensive review and photos of this event at the following link:

http://willamettewinetasters.com/cameronverticle.aspx

VALENTINE’S EVENT AT RAFATI’S ENCORE 310 

Thanks and kudos to Martha Majors, Patsy Nelson and Rezza Rafati and his staff for putting on a spectacular Valentine’s Day dinner event.  The table was beautifully decorated with Patsy’s antique candelabras and Martha’s red rose bouquets.  The ambience was a perfect setting to match the well-dressed WFSO attendees.   Check out Eileen in her new red dress and Janie in her new elegant evening gown.  Aren’t these gals stunning! Eileen even sang with Tom Grant.  How many of you knew she used to sing professionally?  I didn’t. Members brought a sampling of wonderful champagnes to go with the elaborate spread of starters.  I loved the way the spicy lobster bisque was served in the vodka-style flasks.  I had the steak with brandied peppercorn sauce that was done perfectly to my liking.  Dessert was a tough choice with so many delectable choices but being the chocolate lover that I am I had to go with the Grand Marnier chocolate mousse in the dark chocolate cup.  However, at Patsy’s urging I had to try a bite of the caramel apple bread pudding so Jim Galbraith was kind enough to share a bite of his and it was wonderful.  The fresh, crisp Arbor Crest Sauvignon Blanc was a perfect match for the pear and gorgonzola salad and the Chateau St. Georges 2004 Saint-Emilion Bordeaux was a smooth, well-balanced complimentary partner with the steak. By the way, Rezza says he will waive the corkage fee for any WFSO Member that comes to his restaurant (Rafati’s Encore 310).  Thanks Rezza!       – Review by Pat Kimmer (Photos by Patsy Nelson)

See the Menu

CHAIRMAN ATWOOD REVIEWS WESTERN AUSTRALIA WINERIES AND FOOD 

February  2008 

G’Day Mates, 

Sorry to have missed the W&FSO Valentines Day event.  I was in Perth, Western Australia with girlfriend, Dana.  We tried numerous “good” restaurants which were really no good at all with one exception: an Italian restaurant called Zafferano.  It’s located at 173 Mounts Bay Rd.  in the Old Swan Brewery redevelopment right on the north bank of the Swan River. It is excellent. We highly recommend you try it the next time you are in Perth.  However,  prices in Perth are about double what they are in the US.  Example:  Shrimp Cocktails are $25 at normal restaurants and $32 at Zafferano. This was especially disturbing after spending a month in Asia where prices were about ¼ of US prices.  Try the Pumpkin Ravioli, Veal Scaloppini, and Roasted Garlic Chicken at Zafferano. 

There is a wine growing region called “Swan River Valley” about 30 minutes outside Perth.  Many of the vineyards were planted in 1920’s and 1930’s. So there are a lot of “Old Vines” designations. Main grapes grown are Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Viognier, and Verdelho.  There are about 40 wineries. We managed to taste wines at 10 of them.   As usual, our affiliation with W&FSO saved us a lot of tasting fees. 

We tasted over 100 wines but were definitely not going to buy anything because we were leaving for New Zealand the next day.  Here’s what we bought (in order) 2004 Sandalford Shiraz, 2004 Lancaster Sparkling Shiraz, 2002 Little River Cab/Merlot,  2004 Edgecombe Brothers Shiraz and their 25 Year Old Shiraz Liquer,  Lamont’s, 2005 Olive Farm Merlot, 2006  Talijancich Temperanillo, 2003  Oakover Little Bridge Shiraz, 2007 Houghton Late Harvest Verdelho, and 2005 Jane Brook Back Block Shiraz.  We found the best wines to be at Sandalford and Talijancich. There was actually a winery where we tasted but did not purchase wine: The Wine Place (actual name of a winery but the wines were no good plus US$1,000 was our final limit). 

We also visited the Margaret River Chocolate Factory in the Swan Valley which you should not miss. Finally, we found the best Fish & Chips in the world (not to mention good beers) at the Feral Brewing Company, 152 Haddrill Rd., Baskerville (there were a few hounds), Swan Valley.  Cheerio. 

Jim Atwood, Chairman

The Holiday Wine Exchange

Event Review: Oregon Pinot Noir Dinner, Saturday, November 10, 2007, 6:00 PM

Kimmer Home, 13044 SW Broadmoor Place, Tigard, Oregon

With a glass of Argyle sparkler in hand, we knew something special was afoot when we saw the splendidly arranged dinner table – complete with customized place names for each of the guests and Oregon Pinot-specific Riedel glasses.  This was a great event and kudos go to Bill and Pat Kimmer for all the work they went to in planning and hosting it – it really showed. 

The food and wine pairings were excellent.  Among my savory favorites were the tuna tartare appetizer, the squash soup, and the smoked pork loin.

As to the pinots --we had 12 from 3 winemakers—it was interesting to see the stylistic differences between Willakenzie, Ken Wright, and Archery Summit.  My overall fav was Ken Wright’s 2001 Canary Hill.  Wright’s style definitely favors a lighter-bodied pinot with a wonderful lingering finish.  Several of us felt that the Archery was closed and did not show to its full potential.

For those of us fortunate to attend this event, it was an outstanding evening.

Dick Gough 

Greg Bunnell also reviewed this event.  His detailed review and photos can be viewed at:

Gold Medal Dinner at Timberline 10/6/07

Pirate Murder Mystery Extravaganzza 10/27/07

Heitz Martha Tasting (9/8/07)

Portuguese Wine Tasting (9/2/07)

Review: FRENCH SUMMER ROSE’ CHAMPAGNE DINNER AND TASTING

The Heathman Hotel Dining Room – 1001 SW Broadway, Portland 97205 

James Beard Award Winning Chef Phillippe Boulot accepted the challenge of designing a menu of French Summer Delicacies to go with the following (mostly Rose’) Champagnes. We first enjoyed Orange Label Vueve Cliquot with an Amous Biche of Deviled Egg and Caviar as well as Seared Foie Gras.  

Followed by a comparison of Non-Vintage Reserve Pol Roger and 1990 Vintage Brut Pol Roger Champagnes with Dungeness Crab Salad. Next the Rose’ Champagnes: A comparative tasting of both Laurent-Perrier and Billecart-Salmon NV Brut Rose’ Champagnes with Monkfish, also known as “Poor Man’s Lobster”. The Monkfish dish was a layered beauty:  Mashed Potatoes on the bottom, then Monkfish, then a layer of pear and topped with a dollop of Quince Preserve. Phenomenal dish. 

Followed by NV Veuve Cliquot Ponsardin Rose’ with main course of Quail. Then a Cheese course of four fresh cheeses with nuts and marmalade. The very rare (in the United States) Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial Rose’ Champagne was be served with dessert of Raspberry Sorbet and Fresh Raspberries. 

We wereWe were fortunate enough to get seated in the elegant Main Dining Room on a Saturday night. This event is a great bargain considering the Heathman

 has waived all corkage charges and Chairman Jim Atwood subsidized the high costs of premium and rose’ Champagnes..

BLIND TASTING 16 OREGON PINOTS FROM THE 1998 VINTAGE

CHEF TUCKER’S PATISSERIE, 3257 SE HAWTHORNE, PORTLAND - 97214

The wines were served with food and tasted over the course of 4 hours.  Chef Barbara Flowers and Yvonne Smith created a great menu to compliment the evening’s Blind Tasting.  Food included Proscuitto Wrapped Melon and Fresh Willapa Bay Oysters in the Half Shell with Champagne Mignonette as appetizers served with 1997 Argyle (Willamette Valley) Brut en Magnum. Then a 2^nd Course of 2005 Viento (Columbia Valley) Viognier and Mushroom Risotto with White Truffles. 

Thanks to the planning of Arlene Harwood, we had a wonderful time at the Tax Relief dinner at the Stockpot

Restaurant. The food was fabulous, the wines very good, and the background guitar music was a nice addition.

Arlene, the tables were decorated so beautifully. It really made the evening special.

Thank you also to those members who brought guests. We always welcome guests. It's so nice to see new faces.

Thanks again, Arlene. It was wonderful!