Napa is a destination that visitors travel to from around the globe. Luckily, Walnut Creek is practically a “hop, skip and a jump” away from this world-renowned wine region. A true joy in life is to visit a new winery in Napa or Sonoma valley to sip & savor extraordinary wines and gourmet bites. This month I am thrilled to share with you, Davis Estates, Odette Estate Winery, and Louis M. Martini Winery.
Davis Estates, a century-old estate winery was purchased in 2011 by Mike Davis who carefully curated the restoration of this magnificent winery. Keeping with our tradition of visiting a new winery each month, we selected the cave tour & tasting which included a food pairing experience. Michael was our host and had unparallel knowledge, service, and authenticity. Our tour included the stunning grounds along with the awe-inspiring cave where we enjoyed a glass of cabernet extracted from the barrel. While lightly swinging on the floating outdoor couch on the deck, we began with a taste of merlot paired with a demitasse cup of curried cauliflower soup adorned with medjool dates, kalamata olives and pistachios. Next, we enjoyed a 2018 Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon with a charred escarole, burrata crostini which was simply perfect. Michael brought out the 2018 Zepher, a Bordeaux style wine, paired with truffled steel cut oats and roasted mushrooms – such a well-executed, surprising dish. Finally, we savored a braised short rib with a bacon cognac sauce and creamy polenta matched with an Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon. Please “run don’t walk” to this crown jewel in Calistoga! (www.davisestates.com)
Nestled in the Stags Leap District is Odette, which is environmentally responsible and a LEED certified winery. We journeyed to this modern yet classic winery several years ago for a library Cabernet tasting experience paired with a delightful individual charcuterie plate. Upon our arrival we were greeted and escorted on a tour of cave and bottling area to learn about this property and history. We landed back in the estate lounge at a large table set for eight people with our personalized menu for the tasting. Not being “star searchers” we did not realize until the next day, that seated at our table were Glen Powell from Top Gun Maverick, his girlfriend at the time Renee Barge from the tv show Extra and his sister Leslie. Prior to leaving, Glen said it was wonderful to meet us and gave us a hug. It was probably refreshing to have a real conversation and not be recognized. Odette is part of the Plumpjack family of wines, and we tasted several reds from Odette, Cade, Plumpjack, and Adaptation. A true treasure for Cabernet aficionados! (www.odetteestate.com)
Louis M. Martini is an iconic winery in St. Helena that was built in 1933 and a true trailblazer in the valley. This hidden gem may get overlooked, but I implore you to add to your list. The cabernet sauvignons are Robert Parker worthy along with the culinary experience from aspiring Michelin chef Aaron Meneghelli. The interior reveals a fresh modern architectural, yet cozy vibe with rich woods, metals, luxe fabrics, and airy ambiance. The food and wine pairings were sublime. We opened with coffee rubbed Thumbelina, chicory salt, carrot verde & sunchoke paired with 2018 Monte Rosso Cabernet. Ensuing was smoked pecan Romanesco, grilled focaccia, watermelon radish & piquillo aioli paired with 2017 Howell Mountain Cabernet. On deck was a truffle gnocchi with pancetta & pesto paired with 2018 Howell Mountain Cabernet and following was a lamb lollipop with endive, balsamic & mint paired with 2019 Howell Mountain Cabernet. Finally, we enjoyed a blueberry tartlet with spiced mascarpone and fennel pollen paired with the 2018 Lot 1 Cabernet. This is a must add to your winery list! (www.louismartini.com)
With Summer in full swing, it is a perfect time to visit Napa Valley. I encourage you to make your reservation a few weeks ahead of your visit. Cheers!
By Lisa Crossett, Resident since 2001
Lisa has been a Northgate resident since 2001. Professionally she is the Head of Talent Acquisition for Mechanics Bank with headquarters in Walnut Creek. She is the President of California Recruiters and on the board for Community Arts Foundation based in Walnut Creek. Lisa’s passion is Food, Wine and Entertaining. She publishes a food blog called Authentic Suburban Gourmet and loves to throw elegant dinner parties, explore wine country, collec t wine and cook great food.
authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com
authenticsuburbangourmet@gmail.com
Instagram: @authe nticsuburbangourmet