things i like to drink--part deux

the following is a list of wine pairings i've been thinking about. it represents some of the awesome dishes at banQ, but can be applied to all kinds of food. This Sunday's "Sunday Night Wine Club" will offer all of these wines at cost!

Pan Seared Scallops, Green Mango Scented Melon and Mung Bean Salad

2006 Domaine Weinbach Gewürztraminer “Réserve Personelle”, Alsace, Fr.

This is a classic combination of flavors: orange peel, spice, honey and ginger coexist in this powerful yet balanced gewürztraminer. A mildly sweet finish mirrors the delicate sweetness of the scallops and juxtaposes the spicy wasabi and cumin, while the fresh and pungent fruit flavors compliment the summery flavors of the melon and arugula. $40 bottle $10 glass

Pan Seared Haddock, with White Soy Tossed Asparagus and Peppers, Maryland Crabcake

2007 Livio Felluga “Terre Alte”, Colli Orientali del Friuli, Italy

The Haddock practically jumps off the plate with intense, fresh flavor: simply and perfectly seasoned atop zesty asparagus and Peppers. Pea Shoots cut the richness of this exceptional dish. The “Terre Alte” responds with wonderful exotic fruit notes, Mediterranean herbs, Acacia, and almond. This wine was built for fish. Lemon peel and a Seamisty finish match the maritime freshness of this dish. $64 bottle $16 glass

Chargrilled Center Cut Beef Filet, with Curry Leaf, Asparagus Ragout and Truffled Wild Mushroom Mash

2000 Aurelio Settimo Barolo “Rocche”, Piedmont, Italy

This pairing is anything but sublime. The filet offers such decadence, that only a wine with true gusto could stand up to the flavor profile. Rich and meaty, but perfectly balanced with a well integrated acidity, this Barolo shows bold flavors of strawberry rhubarb, red cherry, and dried fruit interwoven with savory elements of truffle, sautéed mushroom, rose petal, tar and tobacco. The well-aged tannins bond to the proteins of the beef and soften. $50 bottle $12.50 glass

See you soon. Eat well and be happy!
geoffrey