Not only is Mendoza experiencing a wine renaissance with increased wine tourism and more and more wine offerings, but there is also a gastronomic renaissance occurring. Argentines and especially Mendocinos are hardliners when it comes to food- they don’t tend to deviate much from the staples- asado, pasta, empanadas, and pizza (which may or may not make you question their Italian heritage).
However over the last two years or so, Mendocinos are opening up- we now have 3 sushi restaurants, rather shocking to be honest. But food tends to go hand in hand with fine wine, so now we are starting to see more interesting food creations.
SECRET SUPPER CLUB?
One of The Vines friends and sometimes videographer, Langdon Doty, has witnessed this transformation and would like to take it one step further- a secret supper club! At various times during the month he will put on an amazing impromptu gourmet meal for tourists and locals alike based on different wines and his creative culinary whims.
I suggested that he test his skills with the wines we tasted at last night’s winemaker night with Finca Sophenia (http://www.sophenia.com/). This is what he came up with and my mouth is already watering, I can’t wait for the actual meal!
For more information about the Mendoza Supper Club or for any of these recipes contact Langdon at langdoty@gmail.com
FOOD AND WINE PAIRINGS
Finca Sophenia Synthesis Sauvignon Blanc 2007
Tasting Notes: (Robert Parker: 90 points)
The unoaked 2007 Synthesis Sauvignon Blanc is medium straw-colored, it offers up a sophisticated aromatic array of citrus, melon and tropical fruits. On the palate it has considerable complexity, good balancing acidity, and a refreshing finish.
Appetizer:
- Tuna Tartare with avocado, cucumbers, chives, sesame seeds and a citrus soy dressing
Main Course:
- Grilled Pork Chops with pineapple mint mango salsa
- Coconut Battered Shrimp with spicy horseradish mustard sauce
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Finca Sophenia ‘Synthesis’ Malbec – 2007
Tasting Notes: (Robert Parker: 90 points)
Saturated purple-colored with a nose of violets, smoke, black cherry and blueberry that jumps from the glass. Medium-bodied, layered, and smooth-textured, the wine has excellent depth, good balance, and a pure finish. Give it 2-3 years of additional cellaring and drink it from 2011 to 2020.
Appetizer:
- Parmesan and Cashew Polpette with Malbec dipping sauce
Main Course:
- Grilled Lavender Crusted Rib Eye with black cherry glaze and gorgonzola mashed potatoes
- Rack of Lamb with coriander crust, with a plum demiglace and sauteed pears and fennel
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Finca Sophenia Synthesis The Blend 2007
Tasting Notes:
Deep and intense ruby red color with violets dyes.
It shows a great aromatic intensity of ripe red and black fruits, blended with spicy and mineral notes like black pepper and eucalyptus. Its long ageing in French oak shines elegant smoked aromas of vanilla, tobacco and chocolate.
It is sweet and generous in the entry and of complete and concentrated palate. It shows mature and voluminous tannins.
Its mineral and fruity sensations venture a wine of great longevity, elegance and finesse.
We suggest decanting for at least twenty minutes before serving.
Appetizers:
- Truffle Oil Crostini with prosciutto, Fresh Figs, Blue Cheese, and watercress
Main Course:
- Grilled duck breast with a herb de provence dry rub and blackberry gravy on smoked mozzarella polenta
- Truffle stuffed quails with spicy dried cherries and wild mushroom flan
