Recommended Restaurants
Sea Fire Grill Midtown
Upon the recommendation of the hotel concierge, we enjoyed an exquisite dinner at Sea Fire Grill in New York City. This establishment is affiliated with the Benjamin Steakhouse franchise, and both the cuisine and service were exemplary. It is undoubtedly a five-star venue, accompanied by five-star pricing. As is common with many restaurants in New York City, the markup on wine from retail prices is 300%, which I believe is excessively high. However, they did offer one of the finest wine selections I have encountered in some time. I opted for a flawlessly prepared swordfish, while my wife savored the remarkable seared scallops. Despite the elevated wine prices, we found the restaurant to be outstanding in terms of both service and the quality and variety of the food. In hindsight, we should have chosen wine by the glass, but I could not resist the allure of their favored Aubert Powder House Sonoma Chardonnay on the list.
STK Steakhouse Midtown
Having visited New York City for several decades, we have established a preferred selection of businesses, particularly in the realm of steakhouses, where we have consistently favored the Benjamin franchise. However, seeking a change for this trip, we decided to try STK Steakhouse in Midtown, and it proved to be an excellent choice. The menu is impressive, featuring many classic options. Notably, they offer a fine selection of A5 Japanese Kobe beef, including an intriguing A5 French Dip, which I had not encountered before. Additionally, they provide A5 strip and filet steaks, with the filet being our preferred cut. I opted for a Delmonico steak, dry-aged and accompanied by Bearnaise sauce, which was superbly prepared. For my starter, I enjoyed a delightful Tuna Tartare that reminded me of a similar dish I had at PLAE restaurant on Amelia Island years ago. Overall, we had a pleasant dining experience, and the pricing was among the more reasonable options in New York. It is worth noting that the cost was lower because we chose to share a single entrée and ordered wine by the glass, which significantly impacted the total. As we dined, it was evident that this establishment did not embody the traditional dark, heavily oaked ambiance typical of many NYC steakhouses. Instead, the interior was modern and sleek, accompanied by hip hop techno Buddha bar music, and we were the only patrons over the age of 40. Our experience at STK reinforced my previous observations made in Paris last summer, indicating that the dining scene in major cities has shifted towards a younger, more vibrant, and expedited format. I should mention that from the moment we were seated until our departure, we spent just one hour there, and we did not feel rushed at all. The era of lengthy, elegant Continental dinners seems to have waned, with younger diners now favoring a more casual and swift dining experience. I like to call it Quick and Hip Dining. For us, as long as the food remains exceptional, we will be content, while still seeking out those cherished traditional dining experiences.
Milos Estiatorio Hudson Yards
This marked our second visit to Milos, with this occasion being our inaugural dinner experience there. The establishment is renowned for its wide array of seafood, all expertly prepared. This visit was no exception. My wife opted for the shrimp, which were cooked to perfection. I had intended to order fish, specifically my favorite, pompano; however, it was unfortunately out of season and unavailable. Consequently, I chose the rack of lamb, which was also prepared flawlessly and exceptionally flavorful. We began our meal with a platter featuring a variety of hummus, which was incredibly delicious and among the finest I have encountered, prompting our visit primarily for that dish. The view and service are unparalleled, and securing a reservation is essential, as the restaurant was bustling with local patrons. I wholeheartedly continue to recommend Milos.
Osteria DelBianco Midtown NYC
Our decision to dine at this establishment stemmed from our research into restaurants in New York City. During this process, I observed that this restaurant had received only one low one-star review, while the majority of reviews were rated four or five stars. It is uncommon to encounter such a disparity in ratings, as there are typically more low scores. I am pleased to confirm that the presence of only one one-star review is indicative of their quality. We enjoyed an excellent dinner, with all dishes freshly prepared and enhanced by a delightful blend of herbs and spices that contributed to a rich flavor profile. I ordered my usual dish, Veal Scaloppini, which featured the thinnest slices of meat I have encountered in years, and it was delicious. The drinks were satisfactory, and although the wine list was somewhat limited, we managed to find a pleasant wine to accompany our meal. The pricing was reasonable. The restaurant was bustling with locals, creating a vibrant and somewhat noisy atmosphere, which we found enjoyable due to the evident happiness of the patrons. My wife chose the pasta Bolognese and thoroughly enjoyed it, even taking some home for lunch the following day. I can wholeheartedly recommend Osteria DelBianco Midtown in New York City.
Wine Spectator NY Wine Experience 2024
It has been six years since my last attendance at the Wine Spectator New York Wine Experience, primarily due to cancellations caused by the Covid pandemic. After four years, it felt as though the same selections were being showcased annually. However, this year brought a refreshing change, featuring a vertical tasting of Léoville Las Cases, one of my preferred Bordeaux wines, prompting my return to New York City. As is customary, the weekend was filled with intense tastings and lectures from early morning until late evening. By my estimation, over 300 wines were presented, and at my current age, it is simply unfeasible to sample them all—perhaps a younger individual might manage to do so more efficiently. Over the course of three days I tasted and enjoyed 96 wines, with a cumulative value of approximately $21,000, which was all I could manage. The opportunity to sample and enjoy wines of such caliber and expense, representing a global selection, is unparalleled. The Wine Spectator New York Wine Experience remains the premier venue for enhancing one’s palate and wine knowledge at a reasonable cost, effectively allowing one to travel the world through wine. I still regard it as an excellent value, despite having only sampled about a third of the wines available. On average, the retail price of the wines was around $240 per bottle. One notable observation I made is that the Master Sommelier curriculum may require reevaluation. Having attended several classes, I have consistently encountered the initial lesson emphasizing that the first assessment of a wine should focus on whether it exhibits predominantly earthy or fruity characteristics. Traditionally, "earthy" has been associated with Old World wines, particularly from Europe, while "fruity" has been linked to New World wines, such as those from the USA, South Africa, and South America. However, I have noticed a shift, as some Old World producers are now crafting fruit-forward wines, while certain New World vintners, especially in California, are producing earth-forward wines, indicating a clear evolution in winemaking practices. This change is partly attributed to California vintners increasingly focusing on terroir-driven, single-vineyard wines, aligning with traditional French principles.
My primary objective in writing about wine is to recommend high-quality options to friends that are reasonably priced and accessible for purchase. To facilitate this, I have categorized my recommended wines into three groups: those priced under $100, those over $100, and a singular exceptional wine that merits the investment of purchasing a bottle at least once in a lifetime. Given that the average price of wine today hovers around $240, it is impractical for most individuals, including myself, to indulge in a bottle at that price on a daily basis while maintaining financial stability. I often question whether wines at such elevated prices truly justify their costs, which continue to rise. Therefore, I have established $100 as a significant threshold, as it appears to be a price point of relevance for many consumers. While numerous wines are offered in the range of $500 to $1200 per bottle, I can confidently assert that, in my view, most do not warrant their price tags, and in some instances, are not worth any price at all; thus, it is unwise to devote time, effort, and resources to them.
Recommended Value Wines Less than $100
15 to consider as strong buys
Diatom Chardonnay Santa Barbara County 2023 WS93 $25. Although I typically do not gravitate towards Chardonnays or wines from Santa Barbara, this particular offering has changed my perspective. For its price point, it stands out as an exceptional wine. The complex floral notes of white peach, pineapple, orange blossoms, and lemon curd are prominent on both the nose and palate, harmoniously balanced with a moderate acidity that pairs well with food. It serves as an excellent everyday wine, showcasing craftsmanship and technical superiority that rivals more expensive options. I will certainly consider purchasing this wine again in the future.
Kendall Jackson Chardonnay Petaluma Gap Jackson Estate Cloud Landing WS91 $55. I have long held a fondness for Kendall Jackson wines, having enjoyed hundreds of their bottles. This particular Chardonnay ranks among the finest I have ever tasted, deserving of an even higher rating. It presents a complex profile, characterized by good acidity and minimal oak influence, resulting in a well-balanced experience. Other reviewers have noted flavors of lush clove and nutmeg, alongside toasted brioche, salted butter, lemon, and peach. This wine exemplifies the exceptional quality that this winery consistently delivers.
Chateau
Suduiraut Sauternes 2013 WS94 $77I was able to taste this wine alongside Chateau d’Yquem Sauternes 2016, which was conveniently positioned next to it, the superiority of Suduiraut was evident. The predominant flavor of smooth, velvety honey enveloped the palate, delivering an enduring pleasure. Although the d’Yquem also received a rating of 94 points, it exhibited some bitterness and lacked the same level of smoothness. My previous experiences with d’Yquem have not always been exceptional, and a common remark is, “Yes, it may not be perfect, but it is a d’Yquem,” highlighting the influence of bias in our evaluations. Over the years, I have come to prefer Chateau Suduiraut, as it consistently matches or surpasses d’Yquem in my estimation, all while being significantly more affordable (the 2016 d’Yquem is priced at $380).
Domaine Carneros by Taittinger Brut Caneros California Sparkling Wine WS93 $39. For many years, this Champagne/Sparkling wine has consistently emerged as the most remarkable value at this event. Each year, I find myself astonished by the exceptional quality, complexity, and technical prowess that surpasses even the finest offerings from France. I can enjoy and serve this wine throughout the day and night with great pride, as it truly is that impressive. Its intricate flavors and perfect acidity create a harmonious balance, making it difficult to distinguish from renowned brands such as Louis Roederer. It is essential for all of us, myself included, to set aside any preconceived notions and consider this wine for our New Year's celebrations. The Rosé variant is equally exceptional.
Roederer Estate Brut Anderson Valley L'Ermitage WS 94 $68
This California Sparkler has consistently stood out as an exceptional choice, often rivaling premium French Champagnes while offering significant cost savings. Fortunately, its quality remains unchanged, continuing to impress. The aroma is rich with fruit notes and exhibits complexity, featuring hints of apple, hazelnut, clove, and nutmeg. The finish is notably long and quite enjoyable. The only other California Sparkler that may offer comparable value is the straightforward Roederer Estate Brut from Anderson Valley, priced at approximately $30 per bottle, which we have also appreciated for many years. I wholeheartedly recommend either option.
Champagne Louis Roederer Collection 244 NV WS $93
This wine is surprisingly accessible, even in Florida, where I discovered it priced at $50 per bottle. It is an exceptional Champagne that undoubtedly stands among the finest in the region. This offers the opportunity to enjoy authentic French sparkling wine at an excellent value, and it truly is a remarkable selection. Personally, I would find it challenging to choose between this and the California Roederer L’Ermitage. It is undoubtedly a refined Champagne, characterized by good acidity and a complex flavor profile that includes notes of pear, cherry, and apple, complemented by a subtle hint of almonds. The finish is impressive, and there is ample supply, with over 21,000 cases imported to the United States. This is certainly a wine to consider stocking up on for the holiday season
La Crema Chardonnay Sonoma Coast Tidal Break Vineyard WS90 $55
This wine is exclusively accessible via their wine club and is not sold in retail outlets. It is unfortunate, as it is an exceptional wine that, in my view, deserves a rating higher than 90. I earnestly requested the winemaker, Craig McAllister, to include me on the club list to obtain this wine. We shall see what transpires. It is a remarkable Chardonnay featuring a complex flavor profile that introduces new notes of ginger, lemon, pineapple, and peach, complemented by refreshing acidity and subtle spice undertones. I found it to be highly enjoyable and hope to have the opportunity to purchase some in the future.
Dutton-Goldfield Pinot Noir Green Valley of Russian River Valley Dutton Ranch Emerald Ridge Vineyard 2021 92WS $75
The Dutton-Goldfield vineyards are renowned globally for producing exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, which are sought after by numerous winemakers. This particular wine originates from the family that owns a portion or the entirety of these vineyards. I had the pleasure of tasting it during a luncheon dedicated to Sonoma County wines. It exhibited a delightful bouquet of robust dark cherries and showcased a deep, concentrated black cherry hue. The flavor profile was rich and well-balanced. I did notice a slight bitterness at the back of the palate, which dissipated when paired with food. Overall, I found it to be an outstanding Pinot Noir that pairs wonderfully with various dishes.
Pedroncelli Zinfandel Dry Creek Valley Mother Clone 2021 $15This wine offers exceptional value at an astonishingly low price, presenting a unique experience. It begins with an enticing smoky cherry aroma, showcasing flavors of both black cherry and blackberry. The palate reveals a complexity that surpasses expectations for its price point. The wine is rich in tannins and features the peppery notes typically associated with Zinfandel. Its deep color is noteworthy, and one might easily mistake it for a Pinot Noir, despite it being a red Zinfandel. At a retail price of $15 per bottle, it stands out as the finest Red Zinfandel I have encountered in years.
Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley Brother Single Vineyard 2018 WS 90 $40. This serves as an exemplary illustration of how longstanding biases and prejudices can be swiftly dispelled. I had never found Rodney Strong wines to be particularly impressive, nor had I ever made a purchase. However, this particular wine has changed my perspective. Priced at $40 per bottle, it offers remarkable value. It presents a deep, concentrated black hue, accompanied by an indulgent smoky cedar aroma. The palate reveals a luxuriously smooth texture, enriched with an abundance of fruit and berry flavors, all harmoniously balanced. A subtle hint of oak emerges as a delicate vanilla note, culminating in a prolonged and pleasing finish. This Cabernet stands out as exceptional, exhibiting a more refined style while maintaining a bold and full-bodied character. My primary concern lies in its limited availability, as it is a single vineyard wine with low production.
Marques de Murrieta White Rioja Capellania 2019 WA 96 WS 93(2015) $78
This vineyard has a notable history that dates back to 1986. In that year, they began aging a white wine in oak barrels for 22 years, followed by an additional six years in stainless steel before its release. Remarkably, the wine was never subjected to excessive oak influence. Currently, it commands a price exceeding $500 per bottle on the open market, with limited availability. I had the privilege of tasting it at a previous Wine Spectator Wine Experience and have enjoyed two or three bottles during meals, with one remaining in my cellar. It is evident that describing this vineyard as merely significant would be an understatement. The 2019 vintage was showcased at the Chef’s Challenge, where it was selected by Bruce Sanderson of Wine Spectator to pair with Ensaladilla Rusa featuring Langosta and Trout Roe, prepared by Chef Jose Andres. In my opinion, it was a perfect pairing. The wine presented a delicate smoky aroma, leading to a palate rich in exquisite fruit, highlighted by vibrant pear notes and a lingering finish. It complemented the dish beautifully, and I found Chef Jose's entrée to be the standout of the day.
Tolaini Chianti Classico Vallenuova 2022 WS 93 $25
During the Chefs Challenge, Bruce Sanderson selected a pairing for Ervilhas com Chourico: a Tatlet featuring Portuguese Chorizo Mousse accompanied by a Green Pea Salad prepared by Emeril Lagasse. This combination proved to be an exceptional match of wine and cuisine, offering great value. I have a particular fondness for Chiantis, especially the Classico and Reserva varieties. The wine exhibited a pleasant fruit balance with moderate acidity, enhancing its compatibility with food. Priced at $25 per bottle, this Chianti represents an excellent value, and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
La Crema Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast 2021 WS91 $22
This wine was recognized as Wine Spectator's Wine of the Year for 2024, and I concur that it represents an exceptional value for its price, particularly for enthusiasts of Pinot. The color appeared somewhat light; however, upon tasting, it revealed a pleasantly moderate body. The aroma and flavor were dominated by rich dark cherry notes. The finish was commendable, and I observed that it was a well-crafted wine. For Pinot aficionados, this is an excellent choice to enjoy regularly with dinner without straining one's finances. I found Wine Spectator's rating of 91 to be accurate; while it may not be as striking as some others, it is certainly a wine that can be appreciated by many
The Calling Chardonnay Russian River Valley Dutton Ranch 2022 WS93 $20
An exceptional Chardonnay priced at only $20 per bottle represents an incredible value. The initial aroma presents notes of vanilla, complemented by hints of honeysuckle and pear, which seamlessly transition into the palate. Although the wine was initially served at a lower temperature, it gradually warmed in the glass, revealing a captivating cedar plank aroma and flavor that highlights the oak, which is subtly integrated and enhances the overall profile of the wine. The mouthfeel is velvety, a quality I particularly appreciate, and the finish is quite pleasing. I noted that the fruit is well-balanced and exhibits a delightful sweetness. This further reinforces the notion that a wine must taste like grape juice to be considered authentic. It is rare to find a California Chardonnay that is not excessively oaked, yet this wine offers a remarkable complexity of flavors at such an affordable price. It appears to be widely available, and interestingly, I found it listed on Amazon for $27 per bottle.
Aubert Chardonnay Sonoma Coast Powder House 2021 WS95 $110
Mark Aubert has been crafting California Chardonnay for many years, and his expertise is evident. Before establishing his own vineyard, he served as the lead winemaker for Peter Michael, where he played a significant role in creating many of the winery's exceptional wines. In my view, Mark epitomizes California's "Burgundy wine producers in the Burgundy style." Recently, I had the pleasure of enjoying this beautifully crafted wine during dinner over the weekend. The aroma and flavor profile are intricate yet harmoniously balanced, featuring a rich array of fruit notes, including peach and apple. The acidity is moderate, complemented by a subtle hint of oak, which is not overpowering. I paired it with a buttery swordfish, and the combination resulted in a truly indulgent dining experience. Priced just above $100, I included it in my collection of wines under $100, close enough for me, as it offers remarkable value compared to a French Chardonnay of similar quality and style.
Recommended Outstanding Wines Over $100
Champagne Pol Rodger Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill 2015 WS 95 $500
It is now the moment to ascend into the Stratosphere and explore wines whose prices border on the absurd, or those that compel you to reevaluate your romantic relationship, prompting you to enhance it in order to justify purchasing a bottle or two rather than confronting potential alimony expenses. Sir Winston Churchill Pol Roger has long been regarded as one of the premier marquee Champagnes globally, accompanied by a price that reflects its esteemed status. Undoubtedly, it is an exceptional Champagne. It begins with a creamy texture and fine mousse, presenting a complex array of flavors including lemon and almonds, culminating in a prolonged and delightful finish that gives you pause to consider how you will manage the expense. I acknowledge my bias regarding the price. Nevertheless, it is indeed a remarkable Champagne, and having enjoyed it previously, I would certainly purchase it if it were to be offered at a discount on WTSO.com.
Maison Louis Jadot Clos Vougeot 2021 WS 92 $255
This price for a Clos Vougeot Grand Cru is truly exceptional, and the quality of the wine is remarkable. I must admit, I was taken aback. Louis Jadot produces a wide range of Burgundies, which often leads me to question the overall quality, as he does not seem to focus on a specific region or set of vineyards to create higher-end wines. I have visited his residence in Beaune and explored one of his cellars, where I found that he offers good wines at reasonable prices. In my opinion, this particular wine stands out, achieving a level of excellence that is not typically associated with this producer. I believe the Wine Spectator rating of 92 is understated; I would rate it higher. It embodies the classic characteristics of Clos Vougeot, featuring a complex aroma and flavor profile with multiple fruit notes, harmoniously balanced with a terroir-driven earthiness that is quite enjoyable. The wine possesses ample body and intensity, culminating in a long finish. With only 195 cases imported, availability is limited, but it is certainly worth seeking out at this price point. Most Clos Vougeot wines I encounter today often exceed $500, making this an exceptional deal.
Peter Michael The Poppies Knights Valley WS 92 $230
This wine is undoubtedly Sir Peter’s most renowned creation, and justifiably so. I remained on his mailing list for several years, only opting out to explore more white wines, as my wife and family typically do not consume reds. To me, this wine was nothing short of spectacular, deserving of a rating exceeding 92. It presents a bold and dark profile with a berry aroma, followed by intricate flavors of mocha, cocoa, anise, and various blackberry notes, all in perfect harmony and balance, culminating in a lingering finish. Notably, Sir Peter engaged in conversation with me three times over the weekend, each time recognizing me from previous encounters, and he is always a delightful individual to converse with. What truly astonished me, and was a significant honor, was his remark that he had always believed I was a wine writer for Wine Spectator. While that is not the case, it was indeed a flattering compliment. Perhaps he has come across my blog? I have extended offers to assist him, as a physician, with his charity focused on prostate cancer, and he mentioned he would reach out. Only time will reveal the outcome.
Domaine Faiveley Batard-Montrachet WS 95 2008 $372
I would like to inform you that my remarks regarding this wine represent the final commentary I will be making for this blog this year and I waited until the end to write regarding this wine. Additionally, it was the inaugural wine served on Saturday morning during the Wine Experience. Notably, Montrachet, Batard Montrachet, and Chevalier Montrachet Grand Cru are the most coveted White Burgundy Chardonnays for both Clark and myself. Were we to possess the financial means of Elon Musk, these would likely be the only wines we would consume regularly, regardless of their cost, as they hold a near-spiritual significance for us. While I have not been particularly fond of Domaine Faiveley, it remains a favorite among many in France, especially in restaurants. It appears that during our dinners in Beaune, France, nearly all patrons opt for his wines. Undoubtedly, it is a remarkable wine. A notable insight I gained from Robert Parker years ago is that it exhibits a subtle hint of green color, along with an almost imperceptible lime flavor, which Parker suggests indicates a wine of exceptional quality. This characteristic of Montrachet wines is complemented by aromas and flavors of apple, honeysuckle, and vanilla, all harmoniously balanced with a moderate acidity that pairs well with food. The fresh lemon/lime note contributes to a mouthwatering tartness and brightness, further suggesting sufficient acidity for culinary pairings. The wine concludes with a long, delightful finish, and the more prolonged the finish, the greater my desire to acquire a case. In comparison to the current price of standard Montrachet, which exceeds $1,000 per bottle, Batard Montrachet serves as an excellent alternative for those mindful of their budget.
Lokoya Mount Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 $500
This wine experience undoubtedly deserves a five-star rating. Among the selections from Lokoya, it stood out as the finest. The wine presented a deep black hue with a pronounced dark edge, indicating its youthfulness. Its aroma was intricate, with noticeable notes of eucalyptus. Additionally, cherry flavors emerged, which is atypical for a Cabernet. The body was robust and assertive, showcasing a fruit-forward profile that was well-balanced. I detected a subtle hint of concord grape, which I interpret as a sign of complexity, affirming its identity as grape juice. During a previous Master Sommelier class, I learned that if a wine does not evoke the taste of grape juice, it cannot be classified as true wine. The tannins were evidently softening as I compared the 2019 Mount Veeder with the 2013 vintage, illustrating the exceptional aging potential of this wine. While I appreciated the 2019 vintage, I found the 2013 to be more harmonious and mature, making it more enjoyable at present. In both the 2013 and 2019 vintages, I described the alcohol sensation as "cool" rather than "hot," a characteristic I associate with mountain wines, particularly those from Mount Veeder.
Best Wine of Event regardless of price close to Spiritual
2000 The Haut-Brion Mission, Pessac-Léognan RP” 100 W2 95 JS $600
Wine Advocate Review Date: 08/2012
One of the wines of the vintage, the 2000 has barely budged in its evolution since it was bottled and released in 2002. After ten years in bottle, it still reveals a dense opaque purple color along with a potentially sensational bouquet of blueberries, black currants, graphite, asphalt and background oak. Extremely powerful, full-bodied and superbly concentrated with good acidity and high but round tannins, this massive La Mission-Haut-Brion should take its place among this estate’s most hallowed vintages when it hits full maturity in another one to two decades. I was surprised by just how youthful this wine tasted at age 12. If tasted blind, I would have guessed it to be around 4 to 5 years old. (RP)
I have included Robert Parker's 100-point review of this particular wine to substantiate my belief that it was the highlight of the event. It was nearly a transcendent experience. My observations indicate that the wine exhibits some age, evidenced by a slight browning at the edges of its dark hue. The aroma evoked memories of roses flourishing in a grove of smoky cedar trees. The palate was remarkably intricate, featuring notes of roses, cedar, anise, and blackberries, along with a multitude of other flavors. Envision yourself in a landscape filled with roses and fruits, enveloped by cedar trees; this wine transports you there. Despite its complexity, it maintained a commendable balance. The finish was prolonged and gratifying, contributing to an overall sense of tranquility. Is such an experience worth $600? That is a decision only you can make. For me, it would be a worthwhile investment for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. Few wines have ever taken me to a realm of such splendor, but this one certainly did.
