Taste Of Love

Taste of Love is an annual event raising money for the Special Equestrians. Special Equestrians is a therapeutic horseback riding program for both kids and adults, who live with a wide-range of disabilities. The stories of how riding a horse can change the life of a participant are amazing. If you are looking for a charity to give of your time and resources, please consider this one.

I helped to emcee the event last night with Jay Severson and while the numbers are still coming in, the volunteers were very happy with the tally at the end of the night. Besides bidding on art, jewelry, vacations and more; ticket-holders were treated to delicious food and wine pairings from a dozen local restaurants and caterers.

I loved the flavorful Patatas A La Brava and the creamy Croquetas de Queso con Ali Oil served by "Trattoria Cafe Napoli". It was paired with a juicy Vina Roja Tempranillo. "Sasse's" served up Sicilian Sweet & Sour  Braised Short Ribs that melted in my mouth!. The dish was paired with a Masciarelli Montepulciano. Bistro 41's chef Reiner said he worked for four days preparing his Sauerbraten with Red Cabbage. The surprise ingredient was amazing; ginger snaps! "Angelina's Ristorante" never disappoints with it's ravioli but this year added Lobster Risotto Fra Diavolo for a spicy treat. I nurtured the glass of The Villa Erbice Valpolicella Ca Panvinio that was poured with it.

The event is held at the Design Studio by Raymond. It's a building showcasing different styles of kitchens, the latest designs and accessories. It will make you want to remodel for sure! It's a perfect venue for a food and wine event. I could go on and on about the food and wine; and of course the charity. Bottom line....don't miss this event next year!

Salmon, Sauvignon & PInot

Funny how great minds think alike. My friend Michelle was traveling this week and talked about a great salmon recipe she came across. "Funny" I said, "I found a good one also!" Turns out we were both reading Food & Wine Magazine and were on the same page, literally. She cooked, I brought the wine! Perfect!

Pinot Noir typically pairs well with salmon and I had been dying to open the '07 Martinelli Bondi Home Ranch that's been in my cellar for the last year. Big nose, smooth, just phenominal! One problem. The two sauces that accompanied the fish were super spicey with black beans, chipotle, tomatillo, etc. And the salmon was topped with a chile-honey glaze. The Pinot Noir, as fabulous as it was, disappeared in all that heat. Thanks goodness another friend brought an '08 Cremashci Sauvignon Blanc from Chile. The crisp fruit did a much better job of cutting through the spice! Talk about an explosion of different flavors! I'm still thinking about it!

The salmon recipe comes from Bobby Flay and is in the May 2010 issue of Food & Wine! Michelle opted for jarred tomatillo's, when you read the recipe you'll understand why! Find it!! It's a keeper!!