Yesterday was one of those days that I recognize what a great job I have. I spent the entire day at a beautiful restaurant in San Francisco eating a 6-course lunch and having insightful discussions about wine and fine dining with industry experts.  Clos LaChance hosted a media/trade luncheon for 15 or so people at Conduit, a new restaurant on 14th and Valencia. If you haven't been there, I highly recommend it. Check out the menu and wine pairings:

Crab salad with basil aioli
2005 Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay

Seared Maine Scallops with maitake mushroom salad and garlic
2005 Liebeler Vineyard Chardonnay, Santa Cruz Mountains

Tortellini French Onion Soup
2005 Estate Grenache

Lamb Loin sous vide piquello relish broccoli de ciccio
2005 Estate Syrah
2005 Special Selection Series Rhone Blend, Lila's Cuvee

Braised Short Ribs with yukon mousseline and parsley pesto
2004 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
2004 Special Selection Series Meritage

Chocolate espresso cake with stracciatella ice cream
2005 Estate Petite Sirah

The purpose of this event was to introduce key industry journalists and distributors to Stephen, our new Estate wines and the future of Clos LaChance. I had to give a little introduction about the winery--but lets face it, these folks were not here to see me....they were here to meet with Stephen and taste his wines. I kept it short and sweet....then sat back and enjoyed.