After you’ve wined and dined over the holidays—first Thanksgiving, then a plethora of Christmas parties—is a perfect time to lighten up with a nice, gentle Rosé.
Chalone Vineyard makes a delightful 2017 Rosé of Pinot Noir, with fruit harvested from a small vineyard in Chalone, a “bench of the Gavilan Mountains” at about 1,800 feet elevation. All of their wines can be found far and wide.
Craving grapes one afternoon (before this wonderful fruit gets turned into wine), I dashed into Safeway on 41st Avenue in Soquel. Among the wines they carry, I found quite a few local offerings, including a Chalone Rosé on sale for about $20. I’ll be back to get more of this elixir, with its gorgeous bouquet of watermelon and raspberry.
Chalone’s website declares the Rosé to be “full and lush with a hint of minerality and a touch of lime”—and with a crisp acidity and easy-to-open screw cap, it’s a nice wine to keep on hand when you need something light and refreshing.
Chalone Vineyard, 32020 Stonewall Canyon Rd., Soledad. 707-933-3235, chalonevineyard.com
Haute Enchilada in Moss Landing
A friend launched his stunning handcrafted wood canoe in Moss Landing, followed by a splendid lunch at the Haute Enchilada, known for its special Latin-influenced cuisine. Held in their social club, a huge room that can be rented for private parties, the food was simply outstanding.
Restaurant owner Kim Solano also holds interesting events, including live music, so check the website for what’s coming up.
Haute Enchilada, 7902 Moss Landing Rd., Moss Landing. 633-5843, hauteenchilada.com.
Ocean2Table
Charlie Lambert of sustainable seafood company Ocean2Table showcased his business centered on fresh-catch fish at a recent food and wine event. When you place an order, fresh fish—already boned and filleted—will be delivered to your doorstep, or you can pick it up from various locations. What a brilliant concept! New Leaf Community Markets has since partnered with the company.
Visit ocean2table.com or email oc*********@gm***.com
