Chronic Negress

Although that sounds very official, it’s more of the way of the Negress codifying how she immerses herself in the pleasures of Meadowood before the symposium starts. First of all, it’s best to take Meadowood up on its wine program so I headed down to the Grill from my treetop aerie above the spa for dinner at the Grill. Rainy Monday nights are a good time to eat at Meadowood since it’s not busy and the staff have time to talk. All of the specials sounded fabulous so I ordered them. First up, tuna tartare with avocado, serrano chili, lime, taro chips and wasabi oil. This was all about heat and contrasting  textures. Paired with it was 2005 Schramsberg Blanc de Noirs sparkling wine. Initially, the wine seemed a bit innocuous with little yeast and a bland affect. Unlike some men I have known, first impressions can be deceiving. The Schramsberg blossomed against the tart tuna with light floral notes. Next up was roast lamb chops with carrot puree, crisp baby artichokes and sweet potato syrah reduction sauce. Here’s where it gets tricky. The wine listed to pair with the chops was a 2004 Saxon Brown “Parmelee Hill Vineyard” Syrah, but the waiter gave me the Zinfandel. Saxon Brown didn’t produce a Syrah in 2004 so I guess the menu was incorrect. Whatever it was, the candied cherry on the palate reminded me of Jolly Ranchers candy. It made the lamb sing a joyful song whatever it was.  Anyway, the meal closed with  Rozes 10 year old Tawny  port and red velvet cake with strawberry anglaise and Valhrona chocolate sauce. At its best, red velvet cake almost makes you wish the South won the Civil War. This one was rich and gave the port a nice kick. After a discussion on Malbecs, the waiter gave a me a taste of a Malbec that was intriguingly smooth and rustic simultaneously. I hate to leave readers hanging, but I’ll post the name as soon as I can track it down.

In-room wines at Meadowood

Anyway, the writers are arriving  even as we speak so I’m off to explore the place some more.