NYC Tastes

My knowledge of Macedonian wine before this week was extremely limited.  I remember having a glass during an event last year that was surprisingly solid but after this showcase  I can truly say this is  an exciting new region. Master Sommelier Fred Dexheimer guided us through lunch with twelve wines from four different wineries paired with four courses from the 21 Club. To begin an Antipasto with Marinated Feta, Smoked Sujuk, Roasted Pepper & Olives with three whites including one of my favorites of the afternoon Zilavaka; a dry, nutty white with hints of peach and honey that would be perfect for just about any occasion.  The next white wines were two very different Chardonnays one aged in stainless steel and the other fermented in French oak barriques; both exquisite with the Crab Cake apple, celery and fennel  macedoine. Then it was onto the the Vranec (pronounced "Vra" "netz") wh...

I had one last opportunity for a restaurant week meal and I found myself standing outside The 21 Club.  I absolutely love  the feel of old NYC establishments; places like the refined Bemelmans Bar, the stately Keens Steakhouse and cozy White Horse Tavern are some of my favorite spots in the city. The 21 Club is certainly impressive with a gorgeous wrought-iron gate entrance protecting the ornamental jockeys that adorn the windows and a secret wine cellar inside used extensively during Prohibition time. I was seated in the back room with an excellent view of the storied ceiling decorated with collections of toys. A bread basket was dropped at my table approximately 5 seconds within sitting.  It was the fastest bread basket I've ever been served actually.  The food menu followed soon after but for some reason it took three different attempts to see a wine list.  My waiter actually looked shocked when I inquired.  "Didn't I want to place my food order...