Wow!  Spottswoode Estate Vineyard and Winery, who is situated on the western edge of St. Helena, CA, just celebrated their 125th Anniversary....and celebrate they did!  Of course, with their extraordinary Cabernet Sauvignon and a family with clear passion, love and dedication to their land and their wine, what is not to celebrate?!     I was fortunate enough to be able to join the family for this celebration at Avenues in the Peninsula Chicago. 

While I know you are dying to hear about it, we will get to the grand celebration part in a moment. But first...

With much pride I can say, this winery more than hits the Epicurista mark - Spottswoode is a winery that makes one proud.  They are innovators, progressive - and yet traditional, all the while remaining true to the integrity of their world-class wine.  What is their secret?  Personally, I think it is due in part to their all women management - sorry guys, but you know the saying - "it has a woman's touch".  Beyond that, their commitment to 23 years of organic farming with the sensitive practice of grape production and land management (I love this stewardship to the land) certainly helps, as well.  Lastly, the amazing dedication of a down-to-earth, family owned winery and a team that clearly conveys passion for the land and for wine production, doesn't hurt either.   All of these combine to offer the first-class Spottswoode wines.

Now that you understand a little of the "much to be admired" culture of Spottswoode Winery, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here is the inside scoop on the Spottswoode 125th Anniversary luncheon...

The Menu... A M A Z I N G!   The Wine- 2007 & 2004 Sauvignon Blanc;  2005, 2001, 1999, 1997, 1993, 1991, & 1987 Cabernet Sauvignon....  NOW THIS IS A CELEBRATION!!! 

While I could probably write all day long about the delicious decadence of the food and the amazing taste of the wines, I am going to have to limit myself to the highlights.  Otherwise, I may be here all night writing.

Speaking of food, and WARNING! you should not try this at home, Avenues pulled out all the stops!  We began with Scallop served with amaranth, huckleberries and quail grass, paired with the 2004 Sauvignon Blanc.  Exceptional!   I thought there would be too many competing elements on the plate, but everything pulled together very nicely and the wine was a superb addition to this meal.  I really loved the 2007 Sauvignon Blanc, which offers light and fruity tastes of apricot, grapefruit and vanilla.   I have also heard that this is owner, Mary Novak's, favorite wine.  And, I can see why!

Wagyu, served with smoked coconut, white shoyu and African blue basil was much enjoyed.  Although I never thought I would try African blue basil, I can now add that to my herb repertoire.  Not only this, but I truly enjoyed the 2005 Cabernet.  I thought it offered great complexity and had excellent flavors of blackberry and black cherry.  I enjoyed the long finish and it seemed to offer slight tastes of caramel.  Mmmm.....

The 1987 Cabernet Sauvignon, had some people at my table a bit hesitant.  "Too old", "Not Sure", "Over 20 years old" and so on, but once we had a taste, everyone stopped in AWE!!  I have to say that this wine aged well, amazingly well.  I loved that it is full-bodied, rich and sweet.  I am not a bona fide wine expert or sommelier, but to me it tasted of chocolate and raspberry.   Now, what woman does not love that!

Perfect event, perfect wine, and dare I say a near perfect winery.  WOW!  Thank you Spottswoode for your integrity in delivering a fine wine from a source that makes you feel almost proud to be a part of its history and making.  I will be enjoying many a Spottswoode wine for the next 125 years to come!