First Firebelle Dinner, February '07

Firebelle Dinner

After months and months of requests, Larkmead hosted its first-ever Firebelle Society Winemaker Dinner on Saturday, February 24, 2007.

Although it had been a fairly dry up to that point, the skies opened up that evening for one of the more spectacular storms of the winter. This torrential downpour added to the ambiance for the 26 Firebelle members who joined Winemaker Andy Smith, his wife Karen, and Larkmead owners Cam and Kate Baker for the evening.

Firebelles began the evening with a warm and cozy reception in the tasting room followed by a four course dinner served in the tank room by Larkmead staff. The meal was cooked by Larkmead's special in-house chef Adam "Big Hamish" Goldring who prepared such delicacies as grilled quail on a mixed winter salad and braised short ribs with polenta. Adding to the family atmosphere, the rest of the Larkmead staff served all the wine and food during the evening. Wine pairings included a flight of 1998, 1999, and 2000 Larkmead Estate Cabernets with the highlight of the event coming with a preview of the 2004 LMV Salon and Solari Reserve.

It was fascinating to hear Andy Smith describe the evolution of each wine from harvest to table. An excellent time was had by all and the best part for all of us was being able to introduce our Firebelles to each other as many friendships were forged during the event. We will definitely host other dinners and hope that you will be able to join us at Larkmead for great wines, delicious food, and good company.