Last night we attended a wine dinner and had the pleasure of sitting with two couples; One whom both worked at Monster.com–a company with a little less bite these days–She a dynamic Chicago-file, he a good listener… and the other–he from the North End and an avid hunter/fisherman who splits his time at Martha’s Vineyard, and she, a Naples/Sicilian “Gypsy” with the most wild and beautiful hair evah, and who spoke the coolest Boston/Italian dialect –I couldn’t get enough…a fun group to say the least!
With numerous wine events to choose from during the final evening of MV Food and Wine Festival, we chose one sponsored by Boston Magazine and hosted by Sakkonet Vineyards of Rhode Island, and Detente Restaurant in Edgartown–establishments with which I have had zero knowledge or exposure to.
Check it out…Shane Victorino was not the only one hitting grand slams last night!
I won’t tease you (too badly) with the mouhwatering specifics–Hamachi crudo and smoked oil, Local Monkfish, lobster and chantarelles, Island Venison Steak, Crispy Short Rib ‘balls’ in rendered liver-jus, Verbena panna cotta..but I will say this; It has been an incredible couple of nights of “wow” worthy ” first time experiences. (The previous night’s wild pheasant and crisp nettles was way-way better than expected!)
And Sakkonet! If you were unfamiliar with this New England Vineyard, or, are unfamiliar with the new owner–Carolyn Rafaelian–founder of Alex and Ani fame–I expect you will not be for long. Of course, jewelry success, and being “local” only adds additional interest and allure–both are rather meaningless if the juice doesn’t impress. But…here it is, from the “horse’s mouth”…The wine is excellent.
I spoke briefly with Steve Krohn, the Director of Sakonnet’s wine education–and last night’s resident expert–about maybe heading up our way with a few bottles; Maybe even a wine dinner of our own. We are due. Why not Rhode Island!
In the meantime…look for the The citrusy, tart-but-not-biting Vidal Blanc (A “Bullet Proof” grape according to Steve), The “Blessed Blend” of Chardonnay and Vidal blanc–a bit more sweet and soft, no oak, The rock solid Rhode Island Red and the red grape of the AVA–Cabernet Franc. We were more than impressed by these East Coast “born and raised” wines and look forward to the possibility of making you fans too! More later…
Oh, and for the record… The official name is now; Carolyn’s Sakkonet Vineyard
Stay tuned for more information…
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.