On Wednesday, June 18, 7:00 p.m., restaurant Nicholas in Red Bank, New Jersey, will host a winemaker dinner with special guest Fabien Castel of OJAI Vineyard, one of the pioneers of Santa Barbara winemaking.
Mr. Castel works in 3 rustic, temperature controlled barns in the backwoods of OJAI. He only works with cool climate vineyards and pays the growers by the acre, ensuring control of the farming and yields. Originally from Paris, Mr. Castel subscribes to OJAI’s desire to keep the texture and warmth of California fruit, while adding a sense of elegance found in European wines.
Amuses: Hydro-Sun Butter Lettuce Soup, Crumbled Buttermilk Blue Cheese, Bacon Lardon; Local Fluke Ceviche, Charred Corn, Mango; Wine Pairing: Rosé, California, 2013
First Course: Fresh Pappardelle Pasta, House-Made Ricotta, Squash Blossoms, Smoked Tomato Vinaigrette; Wine Pairing: Chardonnay, Santa Maria Valley, Solomon Hills Vineyard, 2012
Second Course: Day Boat Sea Scallop, White Bean, Piquillo Pepper Purée, Mangalisca Ham; Wine Pairing: Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, Solomon Hills Vineyard, 2012
Third Course: Long Island Duck Breast, Pistachio Crumble, Bing Cherries, Glazed Tokyo Turnips; Wine Pairing: Syrah, Santa Barbara County, 2012
Dessert Amuse: Roasted Pineapple Sponge, Pineapple Ice Cream, Toffee Sauce
Dessert: Blueberry Butter Cake, Sesame Brittle, Lemon Verbena Ice Cream
The cost of the OJAI winemaker dinner is $120.00 per person (plus tax & gratuity). For more information, or to make reservations, please call (732) 345-9977.
Bon Appétit!
TAD
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