I’m spending more time in the kitchen these days, because I am the “go to” parent, dropping off and picking up our lil’ boy Liam. My wife, Nicole is a resident at Jefferson, which means she is at the hospital at 6 AM and arrives back to the homestead at around 7 PM everyday. Working 13 hours a day leaves her a bit hungry for a fresh and healthy dinner.

On one of my latest adventures with Liam, I ventured over to Bob’s — a fishmonger (now run by a gentleman named Pete) on the 70/73 circle. Bob’s, much like Moore Brothers, focuses on fresh quality product; in this case, fish that is “line caught,” not farmed raised. The fishermen that Pete works with are as concerned about the sea as our wine producers are of their land. I picked up a beautiful red snapper the other day, perfect in every way – fresh as if I’d caught the fish myself – and a beautiful balance of yellow and red skin which looked as if it was painted on perfectly.

My preparation was simple, yet elegant – sautée fish, finished with chanterelle mushrooms, and served with a shellfish risotto.

So what did we drink with this beautiful dish? The Corte Gardoni Chiaretto Rosé 2006 from Gianni Piccoli is a perfect match, but only if you still have a bottle in your fridge (currently we’re awaiting the ‘07 which will arrive in the Spring of next year). Fortunately, we had a bottle of the ‘06, which was holding strong with its fruit notes, and floral edge.

You may ask, “rosé and chanterelle mushrooms?”

And I’ll say “try it and get back to me later.”

I also served a bottle of the brand-new, just released Corte Gardoni Custoza “Mael” 2006 which, loaded with beautiful floral scents, and rich textures, was another great pairing. Check it our if you haven’t had it yet.
Cheers

Stephen Freehill