The Wine Spectator NY Wine Experience took place on October 18-20. The culmination of those three days was the Grand Award Banquet on Saturday night.
After a hiatus last year, I was able to attend the banquet this year. The reception was a black-tie sit down dinner that recognized the 2018 Spectator Grand Award winners from some of the 91 restaurants in 14 States and 16 countries that were awarded this year and also recognized the winner of the Wine Spectator distinguish service award. That distinguish service award was given to Domaine Serene winery in Oregon whose wines were served at the dinner. The very tasty dinner was held at the Marriott Marquis with a Champagne cocktail reception beforehand.
This years musical guests were Kool and the Gang.
Champagne Reception
2008 Pol Roger Brut
2009 Louis Roederer Brut Nature Starck
NV Barons de Rothschild Brut Blanc de Blancs
NV Henriot Brut Blanc de Blancs
NV Perrier-Jouet Brut Rosé Blason
NV Bollinger Brut Special Cuvée
NV Piper-Heidsieck Brut Cuvée
NV Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve
NV Tattinger Brut La Francaise
Dinner
Fall Mixed Greens, Roasted Stone Fruit, Toasted Almonds, Ricotta Salata Shaved Fennel with an Apple Cider Vinaigrette
2016 Domaine Serene Chardonnay “Evenstad Reserver” (Dundee Hills)
Gold in color, with pineapple, lime and green herbs on the nose, not overpowering moderate fruit, good balance.
Herb Crusted Filet of Beef with Truffle Potato Gratin, Crispy Oyster Mushrooms, Blistered Tomatoes and a Port Wine Reduction
2015 Domaine Serene Pinot Noir “Evenstad Reserve” (Willamette Valley)
Black to red in color, cola and dried herbs on the nose with a tight finish.
2015 Domaine Serene “Grand Cheval” (Oregon)
Unusual blend of Pinot Noir and Syrah from Dundee Hills and Walla Walla Valley, inky black in color, deep red fruit and dark chocolate on the nose, chewy black fruit with crushed coffee bean notes on the finish.
Chocolate, Carmel and Blackberry Slice with Blackberry Ice Cream