The October Wine Dinner at Randy’s Steakhouse is also a costume contest. I think the rep for J. Lohr said it best when she said “I’ve never been to a costumed wine dinner, but I love it.” So did the Grits and Wine Crew (or should I say band….)
Reception
RANDY’S HORS D’OEVRES
Wine Pairing: J. Lohr, Riesling, Monterey, California
The wine was actually incredible. Most of the crew doesn’t like Riesling, but we all enjoyed this one. It’s perfect for the porch – but not a porch pounder. It went really well with the quiche – so I can’t wait to have it for dinner with quiche another night.
First Course
PARANORMAL SALAD WITH MIXED GREENS, PEARS, FETA CHEESE, CANDIED PECANS & VINAIGRETTE DRESSING
Wine Pairing: J. Lohr, Arroyo Vista Chardonnay, Monterey, California
The “Cat” had the best description: “The Chardonnay was like a Monday morning and you’ve had a **** day already and you reach for whatever is around because it will get you drunk.”
Maybe a bit harsh given the hint of grapefruit that paired well with the salad.
Second Course
TEXAS CHAINSAW GARLIC PARMESAN-STUFFED MUSHROOMS
Wine Pairing: J. Lohr, Merlot, Paso Robles, California
Unfortunately, the “demon” is allergic to mushrooms, so rather than getting to snag his, the staff was nice enough to bring him a Creaser salad.
Thing is, the parmesan in both went really well with the merlot. It was actually a little surprising – but the sweetness of the merlot was tamed by saltiness of the cheese, and the fruit flavors were enhanced.
Entrée
VAMPIRE STAKE FILET MIGNON WITH GARLIC RED WINE REDUCTION, MACARONI & CHEESE & STEAMED BROCCOLI
Wine Pairing: J. Lohr, Hill Top Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles, California
We couldn’t decide if we liked the merlot or the cabernet sauvignon better. Both went well with the steak. However, personally, I thought the merlot paired better with it.
I think we all agreed we wouldn’t turn down a glass at a friends house, but we probably wouldn’t buy it ourselves.
Dessert
WICKEDLY GOOD FALLEN GRILLED ANGEL FOOD CAKE WITH GRILLED PEACHES AND CREAM AND CHERRY COULIS
Paired With: Freddy Krueger Peach Martini Cocktail
Personally not a fan of the Peach Martini but the cake was really good. Much prettier than the version I make on the grill at home.
Final Thoughts
The dinner was great and the crew had fun. We took first place in the costume contest. You can see other costumes on Randy’s Facebook page here.
