As the summer sun began to set on Friday, June 16th, wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs gathered for a delightful evening of wine and culinary delights. Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, we hosted our much-anticipated Summer Winemaker Dinner. The event promised an unforgettable experience, combining exceptional wines with an exquisite seasonal menu.
The lush vineyards provided a breathtaking backdrop for the evening’s festivities. As our guests arrived, they were greeted by towering sequoia trees, a glass of our recent release, the 2022 Sauvignon Blanc, and passed appetizers of gougères, halibut ceviche with avocado on a tortilla chip, along with compressed watermelon with mint, feta, and castelvetrano olive.
Guests mingled and sampled a selection of Sequoia Grove’s acclaimed wines while conversation flowed effortlessly as attendees connected with fellow wine lovers and shared their enthusiasm for the art of winemaking.
As the sun dipped below the Maycamas Mountain Range, guests were led to our elegantly and festively decorated Cambium Room. The tables were adorned with bright and inviting floral arrangements and soft candlelight, enhancing the ambiance of the gathering.
Chef Britny and the culinary team, renowned for their passion and creativity, curated a seasonal multi-course menu that perfectly complemented the wines of the evening. Each dish was thoughtfully designed to highlight the unique flavors and nuances of the wines.
From the first bite to the last, guests were treated to a symphony of flavors. The evening commenced with a refreshing heirloom tomato and torched burrata caprese panzanella drizzled with a balsamic reduction and topped with basil. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients were a harmonious pairing with our 2016 Lamoreaux Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon.
Next, succulent grilled shrimp served with sweet corn purée, esquites, and lime brown butter offered a memorable pairing. The delicate sweetness from the corn and the rich shrimp flavors complimented the rich yet luxuriously soft palate of the 2016 Tonella Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon.
The following dish was unexpected and unlike your typical wine-pairing experience but was a crowd-pleaser! Chef Britny paired a favorite, our 2016 Henry Brothers Red Wine, with her buttermilk fried chicken on top of toasted brioche with roasted garlic aioli, pickled summer squash, and baby arugula—a delightful summertime pairing and twist on a classic.
The last dish was an absolutely stunning pairing with our 2016 Cambium. Chef Britny wowed the guests with her grilled wild boar tenderloin with blueberry barbecue sauce, johnny cake, pickled blueberries, and slaw.
The evening concluded with a decadent dessert—a chevre cheesecake with stone fruit compote. The harmonious blend of savory and sweet flavors concluded the meal on a satisfying note.
Each course was expertly matched with exceptional wines, carefully chosen to enhance the dining experience. From the crisp Sauvignon Blanc to the full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon and red blends, the wine pairings elevated the flavors of the dishes and showcased the winery’s commitment to crafting exceptional wines.
The Summer Winemakers Dinner was not only a celebration of Sequoia Grove’s outstanding wines but also an opportunity for guests to gain insight into the art of winemaking. Throughout the evening, our winemaker, Jesse Fox, alongside other staff members, shared their knowledge and passion, regaling attendees with stories of the vineyards, the winemaking process, and the distinctive characteristics of each varietal.
As the night drew to a close, attendees departed with a sense of culinary satisfaction, newfound friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into producing remarkable wines.
If you could not attend this winemaker dinner, we have a few more this year, and we hope to see you there! Check out our events to find out how to reserve your seats.