We mixed it up a bit this year and decided to stay on The Hilltop for a special pizza party using the relatively new wood fired oven in the backyard. Our friend Edgardo, a specialist when it comes to making pizzas, was making everyone smile with his creations.
And of course, since we didn't make our annual trip to Sam's by the Beach to see our friend Sam and his wonderful staff for dinner, we brought Sam to The Hilltop Winery. He provided us with a Caesar Salad, passed appetizers and a wonderful assortment of dessert items.
Now let's get to the good stuff!
Our very own faculty member and industry wine expert Brian Baker from Chateau Montelena Winery brought three Estate Bottled Cabs from the winery that The Hilltop Winery Sommelier, Mike Wojo, matched with three bottles of Bordeaux from his cellar. Let the comparisons begin.
But before we get to that we obviously had to start with a few white's. So sit back, don't get jealous and enjoy the ride we took on this beautiful Thursday evening with friends and family.
White
- 2005 Puligny-Montrachet, Domaine Henri Boillot
- 2010 Julien ColloVray, Saint-Veran
- 2011 Aubert Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
- 2011 Staglin Chardonnay, Rutherford Estate
Red
- 1986 Chateau Olivier, Pessac-Leognan
- 1989 Caymus Special Select Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
- 1989 Dunn Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
- 2004 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley (Magnum)
- 2006 Chase Zinfandel, Napa Valley
- 2009 Staglin Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford, Napa Valley
- 2010 Pedestal Merlot, Columbia Valley
Special Cabernet Sauvignon vs Bordeaux Tasting
- 1989 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate Bottled
- 1995 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate Bottled
- 2002 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate Bottled
- 1989 Chateau Montrose, Saint-Estephe Bordeaux
- 1995 Chateau Cantenac Brown, Margaux Bordeaux
- 2002 Chateau Leoville Barton, Saint-Julien Bordeaux
As we all know, all good things must come to an end. So as we packed up, said our goodbyes and took a couple of last minute photos, we got on the bus and returned to the hotel for our trip home in the morning.
Mike and Mav hopes that Brian, the Institute staff and volunteers had a great time at The Hilltop Winery.
A great evening wouldn't be complete unless we captured the memories to hold us over until next year.
Feel free to download any pictures from the entire evening HERE.
