Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/438230
Winemaker Dinner Uncork Col Solare & Antinori Red Mountain and Italy take center stage at Winemaker Dinner I n wine parlance, Col Solare Winemaker Darel Allwine— yes, that's his real name—is what you call a late harvest. After all, Allwine spent two decades globetrotting for the Air Force's Air Mobility Command before landing his first cellar job. Since then, he's flourished, rising through the ranks and learning on the job. His eventual partnership with Marcus Notaro, now winemaker for Stag's Leap Wine Cellars in Napa Valley, sent Allwine to a new level. The duo oversaw 17 harvests together and the planting of the Col Solare estate vineyard on Red Mountain, home to some of the most coveted Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah grapes in Washington state. Allwine brings his immense knowledge and talent for red wine to the WAC on Thursday, January 29, for the first installment in the Club's 2015 Winemaker Dinner Series. "We're thrilled to have him here," WAC Vice President Food & Beverage Peter Christian says. "His background and his experience make him a true standout among Washington's winemakers." At Col Solare, a partnership of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates and Italy's renowned Antinori, Allwine works closely with Renzo Cotarella, chief enologist for the Antinori estates in Italy. Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese vintages from Col Solare and Antinori will highlight the January dinner. Executive Chef Eric Floyd is planning a menu to include wild game, Northwest fungi, and other regional flavors. The January 29 Winemaker Dinner starts at 6 pm at the Top of the WAC. Executive Chef Eric Floyd is preparing a menu focused around wild game and Northwest flavors. Think seared wild boar, venison terrine, and foraged mushrooms—and that's just a literary amuse-bouche. Final selections will be based on seasonal harvests, bringing the best of winter to your table. Wines slated to be poured include Villa Antinori Bianco, 2012; Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, 2010; Pian delle Vigne, 2009; Col Solare, 2009; and Vinsanto del Chianti Classico, 2009. Price for the dinner is $135 for WAC members and their guests, and $125 for WAC Wine Club members, inclusive of tax and gratuity. To reserve, contact Catering. The WAC will also host its annual Taste Washington Winemaker Dinner on Saturday, March 28. Additional guests of honor for the 2015 Winemaker Dinner Series are still being finalized. Contact Catering to reserve: 206.464.3050 or catering@wac.net. Wi n e m a k e r d i n n e r s The Col Solare estate is located in the Red Mountain American Viticultural Area, which has produced many coveted red wine vintages. 14 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | JANUARY 2015