Ryder Cup Wine Tasting

This event featured a wine tasting of 3 grape varieties, with each variety being represented by an American winery and a European winery. Each wine was paired with a unique and specially selected hors d'oeuvre. Everyone voted for their favorite wine variety and appetizer in a Ryder Cup competition. After a description of the wines was given, emphasis was suggested on the nose and palate of both the wine, individually, and with the hors d'oeuvre. The first course featured a California Chardonnay served with crab cakes and a French Premier Cru Chardonnay served with baked Brie. In a close vote, the U.S. Rombauer Chardonnay and crab cakes came out on top. The second course featured a Willamette Valley, OR Pinot Noir served with sesame crusted Ahi tuna and a French Burgundy served with Beef Wellington. The Europeans tied the competition with a Burgundy/Wellington victory. Finally, a Napa Cabernet Sauvignon with pork tenderloin was compared to an Tuscan Cabernet Sauvignon from Italy served with toasted ravioli. The Europeans pulled out the victory, in stunning fashion! The night concluded with macaroons and raspberry sorbet served with a Saint Tryphon dessert wine from Texas, which left everyone fully satisfied. Not only a very enjoyable event, but also helpful in developing a discerning palate for wine varieties!