I had dinner at one of my favorite places last night. Sat on the patio on a beautiful night and enjoyed a terrific casual dinner.
WIth a starter of watermelon, English cucumber, mint, cilanto and ricotta salada I had 2011 Charles and Charles Columbia Valley Rose. A rose of syrah made by a collaboration of Charles Smith and Charles Bieler. Pale pink, nice nose of sweet cherry and strawberry, nice tart acidity on the palate with abundant fruity berry overtones. "B"
I opted for the special which was a wood grilled Waygu ribeye with heirloom tomato and arugula salad and a bacon aoli with grilled fingerlings. We had a bottle of 2006 Altare Barolo. Deep nose of black fruits, tar and roses. Quite rich on the palate with a purity of fruit and minerals yet very drinkable right now. "A"