A colleague of mine recently came up with the great
idea of comparing wines to classical music, which I felt was an intriguing idea
worth pursuing. My first attempt to emulate his novel idea focused on Batch 88, Starboard, a port-style wine by Quady, a California-based sweet wine specialist.
At first
taste, I wavered between matching it to a classical work such as a Brahms
Symphony or with a jazz piece such as Dave Brubeck’s “Take Five.” Sweet and
elegant, this wine is sophisticated and intellectual - just as fit for brainiacs
as it is for aficionados of jazz.
I respect
Quady’s decision not to call or label Batch 88 Starboard a port., a term, like
champagne, reserved for the geographic region from whence it hails. In the case
of Port, that would be the Duoro Valley of Portugal
I also
relish the winemaker’s rationale for calling it Starboard, the nautical term
for the right side of a ship as opposed to port, the left side. Clever, no?
As a nod
to the port from Portugal, Quady, based in California’s San Juaquin Valley,
uses the same grape varieties as its Portuguese counterparts - primarily Tinta
Roriz with some Tinta Cao and Tinta Amarela added to the blend.
The
winemaker describes Starboard Batch 88 as “an easy drinking port-style wine
with ripe fruit and nutty elements that place it somewhere between a ruby and a
tawny. It is warm, smooth and rich with a chocolate raisin character.
Delightfully warming by itself, Batch 88 also pairs well with cheeses or with
chocolates.”
I found it
to be full of blackberry, chocolate and black currant flavors, sweetly balanced
by tannins and just enough acid to round out the combination of savory
elements. Not a wine to be served during a Steeler game day party, but one that
would go nice on a wintery evening at home cozily tucked into your favorite
cushioned chair listening to a Wynton Marsalis album.
The Quady
Batch 88 Starboard comes in at 20% alcohol content and an average retail price of
$25 for a 750 ml bottle.
I will definitely come check this place again with some other awesome friends of mine! It's one of best places for having a good time with a joyous feeling. And New York venues fascinates me with its great style and vibrant atmosphere.
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