The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey 2011 Winemaker's Dinner

The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey, kicked off their Annual Harvest Festival with their Winemaker's Dinner, held at Shadow Hills Golf Club. The golf club had an incredible view. The sun was setting and the view was just amazing on this perfect weathered day.

Sally Davidson, co-owner of the Abbey called and asked if I would like to be her guest at the annual Winemaker Dinner, of course I said! Thanks Sally!

The Winemakers are Matt Cookson, with Jeff Stultz being the Assistant Winemaker. Larry Oddo is the Winery Owner. You should take the time to go visit the Abbey.. It has a really long history!

There were many people at this event. This was my first winemaker dinner, but I think I will be attending more. This is such a great way to taste the wines and to pair them with foods. The chef did an incredible job on the food selections. While I wanted to get every course photographed, I did miss a couple, only because they looked so delicious that I didn't think to take the photo first. Oh, well, I guess one or two missing isn't that bad.. :)

If you get the opportunity to attend the Abbey's dinner next year or any winemaker dinner, I recommend it.. Don't think it will be a walk in the park. Winemaker Dinners are hard work, like Festivals... The wine flows very well...I recommend getting a room!

Winemaker's Dinner - 8 Course Meal Paired with Wines

Course 1 - Caramelized Brie with Seasonal Fruit from Colon Orchards ~ Paired with the American Riesling
Course 2 - Sauteed Shrimp and Scallops with Shallot Orange Sauce ~ Paired with the 2010 Sauvignon Blanc Reserve
Course 3 - Caesar Salad with Blackened Salmon ~ Paired with the 2009 Monterey Chardonnay
Course 4 - Garden Fresh Gazpacho from Local Produce ~ Paired with the 2009 Colorado Cabernet Franc
Course 5 - Pork Shank with Polenta Croutons ~ Paired with the 2009 Colorado Merlot
Course 6 - The Apple Blossom Sorbet
Course 7 - Peppercorn Filet of Beef with Cabernet Wine Sauce, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Carrots ~ Paired with the Winemaker's Surprise - Proprietary Red Wine
Course 8 - French Chocolate Mousse Cupped in Pecan Tuile ~ Paired with the 2009 Colorado Merlot Divinity

Below is a photo album of the courses. My favorite Course was Course 2, my favorite wine was 2009 Colorado Cab Franc.