Winemaking, Film Making and Fun Making

Tasting with Markham Vineyards winemaker, Kim Nicholls

If you haven't seen the PBS documentary Vintage: Napa Valley 2012, put it on your list. Even if you are not a lover of the vines, you will love this story and its cinematography. 

Camera's closely followed three women winemakers during harvest, the most stressful and most exciting time of the year for their wineries. The behind the scenes look is fascinating, you'll never look at the wine in your glass the same after knowing all it went through to get there.

I was introduced to the film along with the three winemakers featured in it, at an event in Naples recently and was in turn able to tell the story in the current edition (May/June 2015) of Bonita Estero Magazine (page 68).

Sooooo.....I got to meet some great women, drink their amazing wines with them, was able to tell their story to those who weren't there, and for the cherry on top.....a wine dinner has been planned, based on my story and these women's amazing wine. Southern Wine and Spirits has teamed up with Blue Coyote Sanibel to feature delicious selections from Chimney Rock, Markham Vineyards and Rutherford Hill. 

I sat in on a tasting with the chef and managers, while they brainstormed on what wines to serve and what dishes to prepare for each. While I don't know the final outcome, if it is anything like what I heard, it is going to be spectacular. Make a reservation for the June 18th event by calling 239-472-9222. I'll see you there.

 

Let il Tesoro Tickle Your Tastebuds

Antipasti goodies

My recent trip to Italy made me realize I've been quite negligent in getting the word out, on some amazing stateside, Italian restaurants I've dined at lately, such as il Tesoro on Sanibel Island.

This is one of my favorite physical spots on the island, a location tucked away in tropical foliage. The building itself has housed a number of successful restaurants but many move on as they outgrow the small intimate space. The wooden floors, the low ceilings, very romantic and cozy.

But what about the food this small kitchen continues to crank out? The menu is full of pastas and fish, as well as hearty selections such as lamb shanks, braised short ribs, veal and more.

I started with a plate of delicious meats, cheeses, olives, artichokes and other antipasti delights, after being tempted by them from the counter, as soon as I walked in the door.

Next up was the Lobster Agrodolce ($17). The lobster tail is tempura fried, served with tomato and red onion salad and a sweet and sour sauce. What a treat. The Fuggotini ($15), or "stuffed purses" were full of goat cheese, roasted pear and sautéed with brown butter and fresh sage. There was nearly a fight over the last bite.

il Tesoro's Fuggotini

I also tried a perfectly cooked swordfish special over a rich and creamy risotto and the Lamb Shank Osso Buco; it is braised with a spicy tomato and roasted eggplant sauce, served over saffron risotto ($35). Filling and fabulous.

And by all means....save room for dessert; decadent cannoli's, tiramisu and other daily treats.

There are SO many things on the menu that look and sound SO good, I can't wait to go back and try more at this island treasure.

The owners have a second location in New York City that I would assume is just as fantastic as on this island. So my NYC friends, let me know when you go! Bravo il Tesoro. I'll see you again soon.