Sauvignon Blanc 2012
Sitting opposite Les Wright at a winemaker’s dinner at Lago di Como added greatly to the enjoyment of wonderful wine and superb food. Wright is the partner, along with Michael Curtis, of 37th Parallel Winery of Scotts Valley. Over six courses of amazing cuisine, we had plenty of time to talk about wine, and many other topics as well.
37th Parallel had its first vintage in 2009, so it’s the new kid on the block compared to many local wineries. But Wright and Curtis certainly know how to make impressive wines, and I enjoyed all of them poured at dinner.
A Sauvignon Blanc 2012 went perfectly with the first course of salad. Made with grapes from Belle Farms Vineyards, this bright refreshing wine sells for a mere $15, and it’s worth every penny. “It’s a little bit from both your flower and vegetable gardens,” says the winemaker, “reminiscent of green peppers and cut grass but soon gives way to flowery light perfume aromas and hint of citrus.” Enjoy this wine with fish, cheese, olives, or drink it by itself.
37th Parallel Winery also makes Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot—all of which I enjoyed paired with the dynamic Italian cuisine of Lago di Como Ristorante & Pizzeria on East Cliff Drive. 37th Parallel wines can be found locally at Vinocruz. For more information visit 37th-parallel.com.
Hallcrest Vineyards Supports Wine & Wet Noses
Hallcrest Vineyards in Felton will be the sponsoring wine provider for the fifth annual Wine & Wet Noses event to benefit pets in need. Food and beer from Seabright Brewery will also be available. All proceeds go to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter. KFOX’s Laurie Roberts is the organizer, and the event includes a raffle, great vendors, three local bands and runs from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, May 17 at MacDorsa Park off Scotts Valley Drive. Admission is $15. Bring a blanket or lawn chair.
Drink Like A Greek, Too
This year’s annual Eat Like a Greek Food Fair will feature red and white premium Greek wines, as well the usual splendid array of delicious foods. I lived in Greece for nearly 13 years, and I can tell you that the authentic cuisine available at this food fair would be hard to find anywhere else. As well as the more known dishes such as moussaka and spanakopita, there are wonderful delicacies like kataifi, moustokouloura and paximathia. Don’t know what they are? Then head to the food fair and find out. The event is 5-10 p.m. May 16, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. May 17, and noon to 6 p.m. May 18 at 223 Church St., Santa Cruz. Admission is free and there will be Greek music as well. Visit propheteliassc.org or email
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