Last week was my birthday and we celebrated for a number of days. Here are some of the highlights:
The first celebration was in Brooklyn with Tony and Roger. It was also Roger’s birthday and the theme was “Dinner under the Fig Tree” because a large fig tree is the centerpiece of their beautiful garden.
We started with perfectly ripe figs wrapped in prosciutto
and a tender pork loin roast with fig sauce. We dined al fresco and everything was delicious.
Barolo Rocche 1997 Vietti made from 100% Nebbiolo. This wine was made by the late Alfredo Currado, one of the most beloved and respected wine makers in Piedmont. It was fantastic with hints of black cherry, plum, roses, tar, leather and a touch of licorice. Classical Barolo at its best.
The next celebration was in NJ at restaurant Caldwell Seafood and had soft shell crabs. a favorite of mine. They were perfect.
Michele had grilled sesame tuna which she also enjoyed. The wine of the evening was
Meursault-Perrieres Robert Ampeau &Fils 1995 made from 100% Chardonnay. Les Perrières is considered the most prestigious Premier Cru in Meursault, and often yields Grand Cru quality. It’s one of my favorite white wines. It is rich and complex with hints of honey, hazelnuts, candied lemons, dried apples, buttery notes and a flinty minerality.
Gattinara 1998 Vallana made from 100% Spanna (local name for Nebbiolo). The wine has hints of cherry, dried rose petals, tar, leather, tobacco and a hint of spice. It was in perfect condition and at its peak. I have a long history with Vallana going back to the 1950’s vintages and many of their other wines.
Spaghetti Puttanesca by Michele was perfect with the Gattinara
Barolo Monfortino Reserve 1995 Giacomo Conterno made from 100% Nebbiolo. The wine has hits of cherry, raspberry, tar, licorice, leather and dried rose petals. This was a special treat since I have not had an opportunity to drink a Monfortino in a number of years since they have become so expensive.
Roast Pork with potatoes prepared by Michele
Comtes De Champagne Grands Crus-Blanc de Blancs 2011 Tattinger, made from 100% Grand Cru Chardonnay. The wine has hints of ginger, mandarin, white peach, lemon, a hint of toasted brioche and a note of almond paste. This is one of my favorite champagnes. It is a great combination with sushi.
Sushi
Champagne Bollinger 60% Pinot Noir, 25% Chardonnay, and 15% Pinot Meunier. It has hints of peach, ginger, pastry crust and a touch of spice.
Perfectly ripe figs wrapped in prosciutto were an appetizer for my last birthday dinner. Can’t get enough of them!
Friends had just returned from France and had Michele and I over for dinner for another birthday celebration. Roast rack of lamb with potatoes and green beans was the main course, perfectly paired with
Pommard “Les Regiens” 2010 Premier Cru Faiveley made from 100% Pinot Noir. The wine has hints of cherry, red currants, forrest berries with a hint of spice and floral notes. This is a very impressive wine.
Thanks to my friends Tony and Roger, Ernie and Judith and Nat who made this a very special birthday.