PATRICK'S PREFERRED

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Chardonnay is what Sonoma-Cutrer is all about. They regularly produce three different bottlings each vintage. The Russian River Ranches is their multi-vineyard blend that captures the true style of Chardonnay grown in this part of Sonoma. The 1999 vintage appears to be a particularly fine achievement. The other two wines come from single vineyard locations owned by Sonoma-Cutrer. The first one is called Cutrer Vineyard, which produces a richer, fatter wine not far from the style of Meursault. The second vineyard, Les Pierres, is one of the finest vineyards found in California. It is known for producing a very complex and multi-layered wine with trademark mineral undertones (this vineyard is virtually covered with stones).

The trip to wine country also included a visit to Hartford Court, a boutique winery located not far from Sonoma-Cutrer in its own sub-appellation of Sonoma County called Greene Valley. Hartford Court specialty is single vineyard Pinot Noir but it also does a great job with old vines Zinfandel and Chardonnay. The secret to the quality of their Pinot Noir is actually no secret at all. The focus is to work with old and long-established vineyard sites and let the vines perform their best with minimal interference of the human hand. All that is required then is to pick at the right time, handle the grapes gently and one has a gem in their hands. The bad news is that these wines are produced in small quantities since most of the vineyards are producing very low yields due to the age of the vines.

Our chef will taste selected wines from the Sonoma- Cutrer and Hartford Court for the Fall Wine Dinner scheduled for October 17. He will offer a unique dish that will complement the distinct style of each wine served that evening. A representative for both wineries will host the evening while providing an interesting commentary on the featured wines. The evening will begin with a traditional reception at 6:30 and will be followed by a sit-down dinner at 7:00. The cost of $67.65 per person includes the tax and the gratuity. Please call (617) 969-6500 for reservation and remember that the space is limited.

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