I am sure you all have attended certain events that when you get home you just say “WOW” what a fantastic evening. We were so lucky to have had that experience this past weekend, I am still thinking about how great it was. It was a wonderful combination, a fantastic winery from Napa teamed with one of the top local chefs of the DC area, and a group of wonderful friends. Now, this was a win/win/win to me.
THE WINE
Goosecross is an estate winery in Napa Valley. Christi Coors Ficeli, the owner, is from a family who for years has been making one of the country’s top selling beers. She told us her history and how she became involved in the wine industry, from selling Xerox machines out of college, to working for Gallo, to becoming involved in the Napa Valley wine industry. She purchased an existing winery and has taken the challenge to write the next chapter in this vineyard’s journey. Goosecross’ winemaker, Bill Nancarrow, also joined us for dinner. Bill was raised in New Zealand and has vast knowledge and expertise in the wine industry. It was great to hear his detailed descriptions of all of the wines and the particular characteristics for each. Dinner with Christi and Bill was a great treat, all of their wines were outstanding; we especially liked their 2013 State Lane Merlot. My preference leans towards red wine, however, their 2014 Chardonnay could turn me into a white wine drinker! I know the next time we are in Napa, Goosecross will definitely be on my list to visit. We are anxiously awaiting the wines we purchased so we can add them to our cellar and remember our dinner with Christi and Bill.
Goosecross/Napa Valley
THE FOOD
I know I have written about Clarity in Vienna, VA in previous posts. However, I cannot say enough good things about this restaurant. Jon Krinn, Chef/Founder/Owner creates an amazing food adventure each and every time. When I began writing this piece, I wanted to give you a thumbnail of my experience eating at Clarity. I didn’t have to go farther than their website to find the perfect definition of eating at Clarity by Jon Krinn.
My culinary vision: Create excitement through constant – even “at the moment” – menu change, utilizing our access to the best local and worldwide products available. We passionately source ingredients around the corner, around the country, and around the world for our community to try. It is a true pleasure to cook for you.
What a combination a dinner with Goosecross wines and Clarity – a match like no other.
THE FRIENDS
So, by now you are probably wondering how did this fabulous dinner happen? A winery from Napa teaming with a restaurant in Vienna, VA. This all transpired from Auction Napa Valley. Our very dear friends, won this auction item and we were thrilled to be invited to this dinner. It certainly was a memorable night. What a terrific cause and extraordinary community.
About Auction Napa Valley – Auction Napa Valley is the NVV’s annual community fundraiser that for more than 35 years has utilized the worldwide reputation of Napa Valley wines and the scenic beauty of the region to raise funds to enhance the health and wellbeing of the Napa Valley community. To date, the NVV has invested more than $150 million from Auction Napa Valley proceeds in Napa County nonprofit organizations. Learn more at auctionnapavalley.org.
