VINTAGE IMAGES: The East Side Wine & Cuisine Calendar of Events

Annual Pasadena PinotFest February 11th

2012-01-23T05:29:00.000-08:00

2012 Fourth Annual Pasadena PinotFest is coming to the Altadena Country Club on Saturday, February 11 from 1:00PM-5:00PM.

Over 100 wineries, 200 wines and great cuisine from several Pasadena Restaurants will be available.

Calendar of Events

LIST OF INVITED WINERIES FOR 2012
Alma Rosa, Sta. Rita Hills, Richard Sanford, Winemaker-Owner
Ampelos, Sta Rita Hills, Peter & Rebecca Work-Winemaker
Anaba, Sonoma Coast, Jennifer Marion, Winemaker-Owner
Arcadian, Sta. Rita Hills, Joe Davis, Winemaker-Owner
Badge, Sta. Rita Hills, Bruno D'Alfonso, Owner-Winemaker
Brewer-Clifton, Sta. Rita Hills, Greg Brewer & Steve Clifton, Owner-Winemaker
Cargasacchi, Sta. Rita Hills, Peter Cargasacchi, Winemaker
Carr Wines, Sta. Rita Hills, Ryan Carr, Owner-Winemaker
Chamisal Vineyards, Edna Valley, Fintan du Fresne, Winemaker
Clary Ranch, Sonoma Coast, Paul Clary, Owner-Winemaker
Chesebro, Sta. Rita Hills, Mark Chesebro, Winemaker
Cordon, Santa Maria, Etienne Terlinden, Winemaker-Owner
Clos Pepe, Sta Rita Hills, Wes Hagen, Winemaker
Cottonwood Canyon, Sta. Rita Hills, Norman J Beko, Ownner-Winemaker
Coeur d'Terre, Willamette Valley, Scott Neal, Winemaker
D'Alfonso-Curran Wines, Sta Rita Hills, Kris Curran & Bruno D'Alfonso winemakers
Deirberg Estate, Santa Maria & Sta Rita Hills, Jim Dierberg, Owner
Derby Wine Estate, Paso Robles, Tiffinee Vierra, Winemaker
Deovlet Wines, Sta. Rita Hills, Ryan Deovlet, Winemaker
Dragonette Winery, Sta. Rita Hills, Brandon Sparks-Gillis, Winemaker
Dutton-Goldfield, Russian River Valley, Dan Goldfield, Winemaker
Flying Goat, Sta. Rita Hills, Norm Yost, Owner-Winemaker
Fogline Vineyards, Russian River, Evan Pontoriero, Ownner-Winemaker
Frank Family, Russian River, Todd Graff-Winemaker
George Wine Co, Russian River, George Levkoff, Ownner-Winemaker
Gypsy Canyon, Sta. Rita Hills, Deborah Hall, Ownner-Winemaker
Harrington Wines, San Francisco Bay, Brian Harrington, Ownner-Winemaker
Hitching Post, Santa Maria Valley, Gray Hartley, Owner-Winemaker
Ken Brown, Sta. Rita Hills, Ken Brown, Owner-Winemaker
Kenneth Volk Wines, Santa Barbara, Kenneth Volk, Ownner-Winemaker
Ketcham Estate, Russian River, Mark Ketcham, Ownner-Winemaker
La Fenetre Wines, Sta. Rita Hills, Joshua Klapper, Ownner-Winemaker
Loring Wine Company, Sta. Rita Hills, Brian Loring, Owner-Winemaker
Longoria, Sta. Rita Hills & Santa Maria, Rick Longoria, Owner-Winemaker
Melville Winery, Sta. Rita Hills, Greg Brewer, Winemaker
Marimar Torres, Russian River, Marimar Torres, Winemaker
Montage, Napa Valley, John Gooden, Winemaker
Palmina, Sta. Rita Hills, Steve Clifton, Ownner-Winemaker
Papapietro Perry Winery, Russian River, Ben Papapietro, Owner-Winemaker
Paul Mathews, Russian River, Mat Gustafson, Winemaker
Prodigal, Sta. Rita Hills, Stephen Russell, Ownner-Winemaker
Point Concepcion, Santa Barbara County,
Peter Cargasacchi, Ownner-Winemaker
Phantom River Wines, Arroyo Grande, John Thunan, Owner-Winemakers
Row 11, Santa Maria & Russian River, Richard de los Reyes, Owner-Winemaker
Rozak Vintners, Sta. Rita Hills, Randy Rozak, Owner-Winemaker
Roessler Cellars, Russian River, Scott Shapley, Winemaker
San Simeon, Monterey, Anthony Riboli, Winemaker-Owner
Sojourn, Sonoma Coast, Craig Haserot, Owner-Winemaker
Sierra Madre, Santa Maria, Steve Rasmussen, Winemaker
Stephen Ross, Edna Valley, Steve Dooley, Winemaker
Thorne, Sta. Rita Hills, Graner Thorne-Owner
Vergari Wines, Sta. Rita Hills, David Vergari, Ownner-Winemaker
Wedell Cellars, Edna Valley, Maurice Wedell, Ownner-Winemaker
Westwood, Sonoma Valley, John Kelly, Winemaker
Wild Horse Winery, Paso Robles, Clay Brock, Director of Winemaking
Windstream, Santa Lucia Highlands, Arnaud Debons, Winemaker
Zotovich Cellars, Sta. Rita Hills, Ryan Zotovich, Ownner-Winemaker
and mote . . .
http://www.pasadenapinotfest.com/

SPONSORED BY:
NOIR FOOD & WINE
(best new restaurant in L.A., Zagat)
40 North Mentor Avenue, Pasadena, CA
Event Director: Mike Farwell
626.795.7199 mike@mikefarwell.com

Burgundy Dinner "The Legend Lives"

2011-10-26T06:14:00.000-07:00

Want to have a casual glass of "Grand Cru" or "Premier Cru" Burgundy?
In our experience that doesn't happen very often unless you are a rich doctor with a cellar full of it!
Bottles of these wines can sell for 100's of dollars and are usually stored away for years waiting for maturity. Well we'd like to change that setting once you get the $265 price per seat out of the way. Of course that includes a Four-Course Dinner prepared by the famous Chef Claud Beltran of Noir Food & Wine.

Wines are being selected for various cellars of PinotClub members. Tasting is open to the public and will consist of the following wine couses:

COURSE I: Chablis Premier Cru, Côte de Beaune Premier Cru White Burgudies
COURSE II: Chablis Grand Cru, Côte de Beaune Grand Cru White Burgundies
COURSE III: Côte de Beaune Premier Cru, Côte de Nuits Premier Cru Red Burgundies
COURSE IV: Côte de Beaune Grand Cru, Côte de Nuits Grand Cru Red Burgundies

There is a sample Wine List on the website to give you an idea of the types of wines under selection.

The dinner is on November 20, at 6:30pm
NOIR FOOD & WINE
40 North Mentor Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91106
626.795.7199
WEBSITE: http://www.noirfoodandwine.com

Riedel Stemware Demonstration at Noir Food & Wine

2011-10-26T06:08:00.000-07:00

"Do stemware shapes make a difference when tasting wine?"
You will have an opportunity to decide for yourself.
NOIR FOOD & WINE in Pasadena is doing a Wine Tasting & Pairing to facilitate this facinating adventure. Mike Farwell & Claud Beltran are teaming up to bring this evening a "Wine Dinner" atmosphere. There will be four courses of paired dishes to bring out the best in each wine.
COURSE I: Sauvignon Blanc
COURSE II: Chardonnay
COURSE III: Pinot Noir
COURSE IV: Cabernet Sauvignon
Don Schliff of Wine Warehouse, distributor of Riedel Stemware will be on hand to demonstrate how each stem is designed to maximize the aromas and flavors of each varietal

HOW TO PURCHASE A SEAT AT THE TABLE FOR THIS EVENT:
CLICK HERE

EVENT: Riedel Stemware Tasting & Wine Dinner
DATE: Sunday, November 6
TIME: 6:30 PM (arrival) Event starts at 7:00 PM (sharp)
COST: $49.00 (includes gratuity, tax will be added at time of purchase)

NOIR FOOD & WINE
40 North Mentor Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91106
626.795.7199
info@noirfoodandwine.com
www.noirfoodandwine.com

Flying Goat Winery coming to Noir Food & Wine

2011-05-22T13:28:00.000-07:00

Norm Yost has boxed up a whole bunch of Pinot Noir and is headed for Noir Food & Wine!
Sunday, June 5 @6:00PM it all begins.
Claud Beltran is preparing the 4-course winemaker dinner and Norm and Mike Farwell are selecting the perfect Pinots for each dish.
If you've never had Flying Goat you are in for a treat!

CHECK THIS ONE OUT
http://www.noirfoodandwine.com
626.795.7199 for more information

mike@mikefarwell.com

New Noir PinotClub celebrates Pinot Noir at the now famous Noir Food & Wine in Pasadena

2011-02-20T03:17:00.000-08:00

It's been over a 18 months since the little wine bar & bistro opened in Pasadena next to the infamous Ice House Comedy Club on Mentor. Since then they have won several culinary awards including the prestigeous Zagat "Best Newcomer" in Los Angeles for 2011.

So where does that take us today? One of the almost unnoticed aspects of Noir Food & Wine is it's amazing wine list. Hundreds of bottles from South Africa, New Zealand and Australia in the Southern Hemisphere to Italy, Spain, France, California, Oregon and Washington in the north. They don't do the Mondavi's and the huge California blockbuster Cabernet's but instead specialize in the wines that are well balanced, well made and ready to move onto their 50 by-the-glass list that has also won numerous accolades.

Specializing in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay as the chocolate and vanilla of their list with wine like Brewer-Clifton, Williams Selyem, Kosta Browne, and Sea Smoke to name a few of the over 100 Pinot Noirs on the list. They also introduce their loyal fans to wines like Anthill Farms and Deovlet made by guys with no money and only dreams.

All that being said it's time to do something with all those relationships and let us all in with the "PinotClub" at Noir (also known as Noir Wine & Food by it's members). The Pinot Club brings in winemakers to do three types of events; winemaker dinners, winemaker pairing and good old-fashioned wine tastings. It all starts March 6 with Stephen Russell of Prodigy Vineyards in Ste Rita Hills, California followed by a Saturday, March 12 afternoon wine tasting with "Sideways" famous winery called Hitching Post with it's winemaker Gray Hartley.

HERE'S A LIST OF SCHEDILED TASTINGS AND EVENTS FOR MARCH
Sunday, March 6 @6:30pm Prodigal Winemaker Dinner with winemaker Stephen Russell (5-courses $119.00 inclusive)
Saturday, March 12 @3:00pm Hitching Post wine tasting with winemaker Gray Hartley. A new winery will also be pouring called Zotovich with winemaker Ryan Zotovich. (lot's of wine for only $15.00, there will be cheese and charcutrie plates at special pricing also)
Tuesday, March 15 @6:30pm La Fenêtre with winemaker Josh Klapper. There will be 3 small plates to go with the Pinot Noir prepared by Executive Chef/Owner Claud Beltran.
Tuesday, March 22 @6:30 Alma Rosa with renowned winemaker Rick Sanford founder of Sanford Winery and Sanford & Benedict Vineyard in Ste Rita Hills.

Wow if that doesn't make you salivate I don't know what will.
The Tasting Club has it's own website www.noirpinotclub.com
You will be able to purchase hard to get wines and enjoy the whole experience of Pinot Noir and that will include Burgundy.

PinotFest "GRAND PUBLIC TASTING" February 12

2011-02-06T16:31:00.000-08:00

Are you ready for the 2011 3rd Annual Pasadena PinotFest "Public Grand Tasting"
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 12 1:00pm-5:00pm
BUY TICKETS NOW $85 PER PERSON
http://www.pasadenapinotfest.com/Public.html

PinotFest approaching save the dates!

2010-11-20T12:22:00.000-08:00

The Third Annual Pasadena Pinotfest is now 2 months away. This is an event Pasadena residents call their own but people from all over California will be attending.

Noir Food & Wine in Pasadena is sponsoring the event with the help of Palate Food + Wine in Glendale and California Wine & Cheese in Monrovia.
Mike Farwell owner of Noir Food & Wine created Pasadena PinotFest and it's been growing every year. The attendance in 2009 was 129, in 2010 almost 400 with 600 expected this coming year.
Many of California's premier Pinot producers with be in attendance with their finest Pinot Noir's, Chardonnay's and Syrah's to taste. Joe Davis (Arcadian), Greg Brewer (Melville/Brewer-Clifton), Steve Clifton (Palmira/Brewer-Clifton), Brian Loring (Loring), Kris Curran (D'Alphonso-Curran/Foley), Paul Clarey (Clarey Ranch), Dan Goldfield (Dutton-Goldfield) and about 30 more will be in attendance.
In addition Chef Claud Beltran will again play host to some of the finest cheeses in the world for the second year.
The cuisine will be provided by Altadena Country Club and their 2 large rooms will host the event for the first time.
The "Grand Tasting" is in the main ballroom on Saturday, February 14 from 1pm-5pm.
http://www.pasadenapinotfest.com
mike@noirfoodandwine.com

SEE YOU THERE

Anthill Farms Pinot Noir

2010-10-22T02:00:00.000-07:00

Noir Food & Wine is doing a Winemaker Dinner on November 14th with Anthill Farms. The event will feature many of their wines including the heralded Abbey-Harris Vineyard, both the 2004 & 2005 received a score of 94 from Burghound's Allen Meadows. The 5-Course dinner is prepared by Executive Chef Claud Beltran and the wine selections are from the cellar of owner Mike Farwell.

DATE: Sunday, November 14, 2010 @6:30PM
Limited seating
TICKETS: $119.00 plus tax and gratuity
ADVANCE TICKET SALES:
http://www.noirfoodandwine.com/events-Anthill_Farms.html
(all tickets must be purchase online or at Noir Food & Wine in advance of the event)
INFORMATION: 626.795.7199 or mike@noirfoodandwine.com

Producer note: This winery's first vintage was 2004 and is the brain child of three former William-Selyem employees. They are Anthony Filiberti, David Low and Webster Marquez. Their stated goal is to produce wines that express clearly a sense of place and their primary interest is working with fruit that comes from cool climate and low vigor hillside vineyards. In '07 there was roughly 20-30% whole cluster used in the fermentation. While the overall quality of each wine in the range varies, I want to give full marks for individuality and character as each wine really is different. As I've stated before, in my view, these guys are on to something and if you're not on the mailing list, it would be a good one to sign up for as I have a feeling that we're only going to see better things going forward, particularly from the Abbey-Harris Vineyard. For further information, contact: (707) 490-5191 or visit www.anthillfarms.com.

PINOFEST COMING IN JANUARY & FEBRUARY

2010-10-22T01:43:00.000-07:00

Pasadena will once again experience PinotFest in 2011. The new website is up and you can get all the information you need there: http://www.pasadenapinotfest.com

The event once again is to benefit:
Hillsides
940 Avenue 64, Pasadena, CA 91105
Main Campus: (323) 254-2274
Fax: (323) 254-0598 and is put on by Noir Food & Wine.

Mike Farwell is the Director and can be contacted at mike@noirfoodandwine.com

Claud Beltran will again handle the events cuisine with the help of: John Angelopulos, Executive Chef
(626) 794-7163 x209
chefjohn@altaclub.com

Mike will be supported by: Craig Sloane
General Manager, Altadena Country Club
(626) 794-7163 x220
csloane@altaclub.com

Altadena Town & Country Club
2290 Country Club Drive
Altadena, CA 91001
Tel: (626) 794-7163 Fax: (626) 798-2877

Noir Food & Wine
40 North Mentor Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91106
Tel: (626) 795-7199 Fax: (626) 795-7333

Events
The kickoff Event is a Brewer-Clifton Winemaker Dinner on Sunday, January 23 at Noir Food & Wine culminating in The Grand Public Tasting on Saturday, February 12 at Altadena Town & Country Club.

Palate Food + Wine Tuesdays

2010-10-22T01:33:00.000-07:00

Join us for our Tuesday Night Wine Tastings 6:30-9PM

$10.00 / four tastes

All wines will be available for retail purchase at a 10% discount Tuesday night only.

please call or email us to rsvp
818-662-9463
merchant@palatefoodwine.com

Tuesday tastings are great for groups large and small. Private tastings can also be arranged.
Please contact Nina Crowe at 818-662-9463 ext. 101 or nina@palatefoodwine.com

Webster Marques of Anthill Farms to do Winemaker Dinner in Pasadena

2010-10-22T01:14:00.001-07:00

PINOFEST COMING IN JANUARY

2010-09-10T10:06:00.000-07:00

Ah, Pinot

2010-08-25T16:37:00.000-07:00

The Best of Pinot Noir!
2004 to 2007, Brewer-Clifton, Sea Smoke, Kistler, only the best at this 5-Course wine dinner at Noir Food & Wine in Pasadena. Once again Mike Farwell and Claud Beltran team up for this amazing wine dinner on August 29 at 6:30 PM.

Palate & Noir 2 great restaurants

2010-07-24T13:11:00.000-07:00

The two best Restaurant & Wine establishments on the East Side are every bit the hits that AOC once was. That's not to say AOC isn't still the best at small plates, but the wine at Noir and Palate is a notch or two above them. Mike Farwell and Steve Golden have put together wine lists that are not only International but masterfully created. The Flights at Noir are by far the best and the wines by the glass cannot be compared. The bottle lists are extensive with over 600 selections to choose from. So next time you want a glass of wine it's Noir or Palate on the East Side.

Anthill Farms coming to Pasadena November 7th

2010-07-24T06:11:00.000-07:00

Anthill Farms Winemaker Dinner

This November Webster Marquez, winemaker for Anthill Farms Winery in Sonoma will be pouring:
2004 Abbey-Harris Pinot Noir
2005 Abbey-Harris Pinot Noir
2005 Comptche Ridge Pinot Noir
2005 Demuth Pinot Noir
2006 Abbey-Harris Pinot Noir
2006 Peter’s Vineyard Pinot Noir
2007 Abbey-Harris Pinot Noir
2008 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
2008 Peter’s Vineyard Pinot Noir
2008 Tina Marie Pinot Noir
2008 Comptche Ridge Pinot Noir

This is a limited seating 5-Course Dinner prepared by Executive Chef Claud Beltran.
The cost is $119.00 (plus tax & gratuity) for a chance to meet one of the three young men who have crashed onto the Sonoma Pinot scene with spectacular success.

To sign up for this event go to: noirfoodandwine.com
Due to the limited number of bottles seating is extremely limited, so don't wait!
Anthill Farms Winery

Sunday, November 7, 2010 @6:30 PM
NOIR FOOD & WINE
40 North Mentor Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91106
626.795.7199
Open 7 days at 4:00pm, dinner 5:30pm
Open for lunch Tuesday thru Friday 11:30am till 2:00pm

CLOS PEPE WINEMAKER DINNER AT NOIR FOOD & WINE

2010-07-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

Clos Pepe winemaker Wes Hagen will be in Pasadena on July 25th for an exclusive winemaker dinner. Noir Food & Wine and Mike Farwell are hosting the event. A 4-Course dinner prepared by Chef Claud Beltran will enhance the wine experience.

Those people that received their tickets early will be in for a great dinner!

NOIR FOOD & WINE
40 North Mentor Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91106
Reservations: noirfoodandwine.com
Email: info@noirfoodandwine.com

2nd Annual Pasadena PinotFest coming in January

2009-12-15T06:43:00.000-08:00

The Best of the Best!
California Pinot Noir is coming to town.
Over 50 wineries will be involved at the Grand Tasting on Saturday, January 30th
Winemakes, Growers and Owners will be putting their best Pinots & Chardonnays up to taste
Hosted by Noir Food & Wine
To get Tickets or just for more Information visit: PasadenaPinotFest.com

Brian Loring Wine Dinner at Noir

2009-12-06T02:21:00.000-08:00

Don't miss this one!
Brian Loring Winemaker Dinner at Noir Food & Wine in Pasadena.
The winemaker will be pouring his own wines from the 2004, 2005, 2006 & 2007 vintages. The dinner is hosted by Mike Farwell and the cuisine is by chef Claud Beltran known for his ability to match wines.
The event is at 7:00pm on Sunday, January 24, 2010, but don't wait to buy tickets the seating is limited and this event will sell out quickly.

Go to website for more information:
www.noirfoodandwine.com

NOIR FOOD & WINE
40 North Mentor Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91106
626.795.7911

NOIR FOOD & WINE OPENS FOR LUNCH

2009-10-28T08:04:00.000-07:00

Noir Food & Wine is opening for lunch on November 2nd.

MENU
FROMAGE BOARD
Saint André –Creamy, Soft
Humboldt Fog –Sharp, Semi-Soft
Bucheron –Sharp, Semi-Soft
Saint Nectaire –Round, Semi-Soft
Selection of 4 cheeses 12.
Served with Fig Bread, Honeycomb, Quince Paste & Glazed Pecans

Charcuterie Plate
Selection of 4 meats 14.
Coppa, Prosciuto, Chorizo & Salami
Served with Apricot Chutney & Glazed Nuts

SHRIMP & SAUSAGE GUMBO
Large Bowl 13.
Andouille and shrimp with green onion rice

Snacks & Sides
Olives 4.
Glaced Nuts & Fresh Fruit of the Season 4.
Onions & Mushrooms with Miso Garlic Sauce 4.
Pommes Frites 6.
Haricot Vert (French Green Beans) 7.
Sautéed with garlic, shallots & mint
Patti Pan Yellow Squash 7.
Pan roasted with fresh herbs
Fried Cotija Cheese 8.
With chimichurri sauce
Roasted Fingerling Potatoes 11.
Wild mushrooms, fresh herbs & white wine broth

Desserts 8.
Heirloom Apples with Ginger Caramel
Chocolate Terrine with Crème Anglaise
Noir Bananas Foster with Vanilla Ice Cream
Assorted Gelatos and Sorbets

SALADS
Lolo Rossa Greens 7.
Fuyu persimmons & Maytag Bleu vinaigrette
Add Marinated Chicken, Grilled Rib Eye or Poached Shrimp 15.

Frissee Lettuce Parsley & Persian Cucumbers 7.
Dijon- Fourme d’Ambert vinaigrette

Fresh Burrata & Shaved Bosc Pears 12.
With walnut vinegarette & parsley coulis

SEAFOOD
Shrimp Po’ Boy 13.
Poached White Shrimp, Grilled Trevisio, Remoulade
& Tomato Salad

Seared Scallops 16.
With red curried squash purée, carmalized cauliflower & pomegranate seeds

Blue Nose Sea Bass 14.
Roasted sunchokes & red wine sauce

MEATS
The Gallego Sandwich –BLP 12.
Smoked Bacon, Arugula & Roasted Bell Peppers & Garlic Aïoli

Seared Hudson Valley Foie Gras 19.
Raisin chutney

Wild Boar Chili Verde 13.
Roasted chayote squash

Grilled Australian Lamb Chops 15.
Harissa sauce & wild mushrooms

The Farwell Burger 11.
with tarragon, caramelized onions , remoulade sauce,
melted Pecorino Sardo & Pommes Frites

NOIR FOOD & WINE
Dinner: 5PM till 11PM
Lunch: 11:30AM till 3:00PM
40 north Mentor avenue
Pasadena, CA 91106
626.795.7199

HWC Wine Classes for Beginners!

2009-10-28T07:58:00.000-07:00

Heritage Wine Classes for Beginners!
$125/Series of Three Courses
Monday, November 2, 9 and 16, 2009

Three Mondays in a Row at HWC:

November 2, 9, & 16, 2009

6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

$125/series of three courses

Cost includes all wine.

This is a class series intended for people who have always wanted to know more about wine but were afraid that it might be too overwhelming.

Taught by our own Colom Keating, a Level II sommelier with the International Sommelier Guild, these classes will take you from grape to bottle and all points in between.

There will be wine tastings and advice on food pairings throughout, and all participants will receive a15% discount on the purchase of any wines tasted in class!

HWC Wine School is very informal and a lot of fun - so if you're interested in becoming a wine snob, this class is not for you!

HERITAGE WINE COMPANY
155 N. Raymond Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91103
626-844-9333

The Great Italian Wine Dinner at Noir Food & Wine

2009-10-04T20:25:00.000-07:00

Mike Farwell the Madman at Noir Food & Wine according to Jonathon Gold at the LA Weekly and Claud Beltran the Executive Chef at Noir have put together a great wine dinner.

"THE GREAT ITALIAN WINE DINNER"
Dinner & Wine $109.00 (includes tax & gratuity)
CUISINE BY CLAUD BELTRAN • WINES BY MIKE FARWELL

HOURS: Monday through Saturday 5PM til 11PM
FIRST COURSE
Red Anjou Pears
Tellagio cheese, grilled marinated trevisio, 25 year Balsamic vinegar
VENETO
2005 Musella, Valpolicella, Ripassa, Corvina
Rather light in color, offering clean cherry and vanilla character on the nose and palate, with a light velvety texture.
2006 Musella, Valpolicella, Vigne Nuovo, Corvina
There's some cherry and berry on the nose, becoming slightly sharp on the medium palate.

SECOND COURSE
Lamb Ragout with Parppadel Pasta
Pecorino Salata
PIEMONTE
2005 Giacomo Conterno, Barbera d’Alba “Cascina Francia”
Cassis, blackberry and licorice on the nose; gained a floral element with aeration. Less densely packed and obviously sweet than the '06 but still plenty fat, with flavors of dark berries and bitter chocolate complicated by an almost saline minerality. This conveys an impression of energy from limestone.
2005 Elio Grasso, Barbera d’Alba, “Vigna Martina”
Good deep red-ruby. Aromas of redcurrant, plum, milk chocolate and minerals. Lush, fat and fine-grained, with a lovely restrained sweetness and a pliant mouth feel. Intriguing mineral and floral nuances complement the red fruit and mellow oak components. Finishes with very
smooth tannins. A very good showing.

THIRD COURSE
Risotto with Fresh Porcini, Mascarpone Cheese
PIEMONTE
2004 Stefano Farina, Barolo
Plum skin on the nose, with a hint of licorice. Full-bodied, with round, velvety tannins and a long, caressing finish that shows coffee and dark chocolate undertones. Beautiful. 91 Wine Spectator
1999 Giuseppe Mascarello Barolo “Monprivato”
The stunning 1999 Barolo Monprivato remains one of my favorite recent vintages of this wine,
and my impression is that it will one day be regarded as one of the great Monprivatos of all time.
Made in a rich, almost opulent style for this wine, the 1999 displays heady aromas of roses and sweet fruit, along with a more full-bodied profile than the 2001, with generous amounts of ripe fruit, outstanding length, exquisitely well-integrated tannins and a finish that lasts forever. As it sits in the glass, notes of minerals and tobacco gradually emerge to complete this magnificent Barolo. It is not to be missed. 95+ Robert Parker

FOURTH COURSE
Bisteca Florentina
Stewed Black Kale, Grilled Potatoes, Garlic Potatoes
TOSCANA
2004 La Pescaia , Brunello di Montalcino
Light red berry and plum aromas, with ripe darker cherry and coffee nuances emerging with air.
Soft and broad, with good weight to the flavors of red cherry, almond paste and mocha.
The fruit is lifted by an exotic citrus note and picks up a mineral tang on the moderately long finish.
Offers excellent energy and verve for this vintage.
2001 Carpazo, Brunello di Montalcino, “Vigna La Casa”
Huge nose of blackberries, plums and earthy notes, hints of cedar. Massively full bodied and
strong tannins this wine has the makings of a classic. Super ripe and fruity the palate is simple
elegance but there is an overly tannic characteristic straight from the bottle but after some decanting the wine becomes smoother. Long finish that let's you appreciate the complexity of the wine.

DESSERT COURSE
VENETO
2004 Musella, Amarone della Valpolicella, Corvina
Offers notes of raisin, with a pleasant coloring of ripe raspberry and vanilla.
Full-bodied, with fine, fruit-coated tannins and a medium, spicy finish. Nicely done.

FOR MORE INFORMATION & TO PURCHASE TICKETS: CLICK HERE

NOIR FOOD & WINE
40 North Mentor Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91106
Regular Dinner Reservations: OpenTable.com
626.795.7199 • fax 626.795.7333
info@noirfoodandwine.com

California Wine Dinner at Noir Food & Wine

2009-09-13T12:34:00.000-07:00

"THE WINES OF CALIFORNIA"
Dinner & Wine $109.00 (includes tax & gratuity)
CUISINE BY CLAUD BELTRAN • WINES BY MIKE FARWELL
Course dishes available week of event

FIRST COURSE
2005 Peay, Sonoma Coast, Viognier: The Viognier strikes an impeccable balance between typical Viognier aromas of apricot and peach and the crisp, mineral driven aromas that, though rarely found in this variety, are a hallmark in our Viogniers. The nose soars with seductive aromas of candied ginger, apricot and green papaya. The leesy mouthfeel is held taut by limestone, lemongrass and fennel flavors with crisp acidity and a minutes long finish. This wine is made to accompany seafood. 90 points
2005 Peay, Sonoma Coast, Marsanne & Roussanne: Roussanne/Marsanne exhibits a zesty citrus nose with honeycomb, melon and grilled bread aromas. The mouth has a very focused, precise cut with briny, oyster shell aromas layered by beeswax, daisy, almond and straw notes. It is quite flavorful with medium viscosity but is by no means heavy or pondering. The finish is clean and with a waxy aftertaste. The structure of the 2005 promises a long life. Hold for 3+ years and decant before serving. 110 cases produced. 91 points

SECOND COURSE
2003 Aubert, Ritchie Vineyard, Chardonnay: Floral, pear, peach and apple aromas are joined by toasty, cedary oak, delivered on a tightly focused beam. Intense and vibrant, with lively acidity keeping the flavors fresh and lively. Drink now through 2011. 1,214 cases made. –JL 92 points
2005 Aubert, Lauren Vineyard, Chardonnay: Bright, pale yellow. Deep, highly complex nose melds grapefruit, pineapple, citrus skin, gunflint, light sulfides and a suggestion of charry oak. Then extremely intense in the mouth, with superb acidity giving definition to the powerful flavors. Wonderfully nuanced wine with strong mineral and soil tones. Savory rather than overly sweet. Aubert describes this as his version of Batard-Montrachet, saying it has more volume and acidity than the otherworldly 2002, which rated 96 points a year ago. I don't find this quite as tactile today but it may well be an even larger wine. –Stephen Tanzer, 95 points

THIRD COURSE
2004 Talley Vineyard, Rincon, Pinot Noir: Bright ruby-red. Superripe aromas of wild strawberry, black cherry, brown spices and mocha.Rich and sweet in the mouth, with compellingly sappy raspberry flavor enlivened by minerality. As sweet and sexy as this is, it's also even more tangy than the Stone Corral bottling. Finishes with firm, dusty tannins and noteworthy energy and length. –Stephen Tanzer 92 points
2005 Talley Vineyard, Rincon, Pinot Noir: Saturated red. Intensely perfumed bouquet of spicy red fruits and exotic rose and lavender scents. Vibrant and pure, with sweet raspberry flavor and an expansive, lively finish. The silky tannins slowly build with air but frame rather than obscure the sexy fruit. –Stephen Tanzer 92 points

FOURTH COURSE
1997 Spring Mountain, Syrah: A dark, rich, deeply concentrated wine, with ripe plum, currant, cedar, sage and tobacco flavors that are tightly wound, finishing with chewy tannins. Best from 2003 through 2010. 1,100 cases made. –JL 90 points
1999 Spring Mountain, Syrah: Dark, ripe and complex, with rich, intense black cherry, spice, plum, beef and chocolate notes, finishing with firm tannins and fine length. Best from 2001 through 2010. 684 cases made. –JL 91 points

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27TH @6:30PM
PURCHASE TICKETS NOW AT: Noir Food & Wine
wines subject to change without notice
40 North Mentor Avenue | Pasadena, California | 91106 | info@noirfoodandwine.com | Reservations 626.795.7199 | Office Fax 626.795.7333

Pairing Food and Wine

2009-08-17T09:46:00.000-07:00

Wine and Food, what a pair. Do food and wine really pair like all food geeks say?
First of all a word of caution, this article has its flaws but is close to the truth.
Let's start with some of the most well known matches:
(1) Stilton Blue Cheese, Walnuts & Vintage Port (Tawny, LBV, etc is acceptable)
(2) Tree Ripened Apricots & Sauternes (sweet dessert wines styled after Sauternes are acceptable)
(3) Lamb Chops & Burgundy (Pinot Noir with body is acceptable)
(4) Rib Eye Steak & Cabernet Sauvignon (Bordeaux, Can Franc and several other reds will do)
Anyway you get the drift.
Spicy foods are generally taboo for wines, but there are exceptions:
Alsatian, German & Austrian wines with their great acidity can hold up and actually enhance the experience.
There are many blogs and websites that will recommend what to drink with your cuisine, but my advise is to read and listen to others and then make up your own mind.
Good rule to follow: Hearty foods require Hearty wines, rich & buttery foods (lobster, etc) require rich & buttery wines, light foods require lighter style more delicate wines. Seems simple but it actually works to some degree. Know your wines and you'll have a better chance of succeeding in your choice.

In this example a Zinfandel is paired with an Asian dish, go figure!
It actually makes sense when you look at the meat in the dish.

CLICK HERE FOR A GOOD ARTICLE AT FOOD & WINE MAGAZINE

Good hunting, it's fun to do it yourself! Don't be intimidated by self-appointed experts, they probably got their information direct from Thomas Keller (ha!).

Arcadian Winemaker at Palate & Noir

2009-08-15T10:56:00.000-07:00

Joe Davis the celebrated winemaker and owner of Arcadian Wine in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA is making the rounds on the East Side.
On December 15 he will be at Palate for an afternoon tasting and then in the evening he will do a wine dinner with chef Octavio Baccerra.
On December 21 he will be at Noir in Pasadena doing a similar stint and wine dinner with Claud Beltran in the new wine bar.
Joe has been producing some of the best Pinot Noir & Chardonnay from the central coast for quite some time now.

Inspired by the great traditions of Burgundian winemaking, Joseph Davis has been making Arcadian Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah in California's Central Coast region since 1996. Using French artisan methods and hands-on vineyard management, Joe's Arcadian label consistently receives high marks from the world's most respected wine writers. Following his gut instinct allows him the complete realization of his dream and his mission remains to make wines that fully express the uniqueness of the vineyard and the region while capturing the voluptuous flavor of the grape and the kiss of cool California breezes and warm sunshine.

Traditionally, Joe harvests fruit with much more modest sugar levels and much higher natural acidity than many of his fellow growers. The belief that Arcadian wines will continue to evolve in the bottle for years to come and that this continued evolution will ultimately produce a much more interesting wine is what drives Arcadian's--and Joe's---philosophy of winegrowing.

ARCADIAN WINERY
4457 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 2
Lompoc, CA 93436
(appointments only 805-688-8799 ask for Heather)

Noir Food & Wine
40 North Mentor Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91106
626.795.7199

Palate Food + Wine
933 South Brand Blvd
Glendale, CA 91204
818.662.9463

Gary Menes leaves Palate

2009-08-15T10:33:00.000-07:00

Gary Menes the Executive Chef at Palate has left the building. The circumstances are not clear but rumor has it he has gone to Marche in the Valley. Marches is an Andre Guerrero project that replaces Max in Sherman Oaks.

Anna Leger Art Show at Heritage draws crowd

2009-08-15T10:23:00.000-07:00

Anna Leger the Wine Bar Director at Heritage Wine Co. in Pasadena is also a thriving young artist who also has taken up Kick Boxing.
About 6 years ago she was a server at Wine Bar 112 in Pasadena and then moved to Heritage when that wine bar closed in 2005. She has been the main draw there ever since.
As a young artist she has done several shows in the area but her most recent at Heritage was quite a success according to the Bob the owner. The Wine Bar was packed with friends and customers and Anna sold ten of her pieces during the event according to Anna.

Heritage Wine Co.
155 North Raymond Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91103
626.844.9333

Noir sets the standard for Pasadena dine & wine establishments

2009-08-07T11:23:00.000-07:00

Noir Food & Wine opened to the public Thursday evening to an enthusiastic crowd of fans. We're sure many of these folks are die-hard Mike Farwell and Claud Beltran groupies. Busy is the best way to describe the scene. This restaurant and wine bar get more out of 32 seats than most restaurants get out of 50 seats.
The wine list is staggering! Over 500 wines and at least 150 Pinots staring out at you.
The cuisine is small plates and the Opah was our favorite although everything was well prepared and flavorful.
The decor is old world charm, but strangely contemporary with wood trim on chocalate brown wall and a beatiful bar with two lamps at either end. There's even a wall of wine behind the bar.
This is now Pasadena's most unique wine & food spot, casual yet elegant. There's nothing really like it in this town and it's a welcome addition.

Noir Food & Wine
40 North Mentor Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91106
626.795.7199
fax 626.795.7333
mike@mikefarwell.com

NOIR FOOD & WINE GETS REAL

2009-07-20T05:54:00.000-07:00

There's a new awning at 40 North Mentor and it looks good. A look inside and you can see Noir is getting ready to open their doors. It's exciting!

Noticing action at 40 North Mentor! Could it be Noir?

2009-06-27T13:28:00.000-07:00

Driving by the Ice House Comedy Club the other day I noticed a small sign on the door! It says, "Noir Food & Wine" I'm sure.
So it's close, there's an article in the L.A. Times Blog by Jessica Gelt;
"A new wine bar, Noir Food & Wine, owned by Michael Farwell (who also opened Vertical Wine Bistro), Alex Gallego (Alex & Friends), and chef Claud Beltran is tentatively set to open in Pasadena (near Lake and Colorado) in July. The concept, which has been fermenting for three years, is based loosely on the famous wine bar Willi's in Paris. Beltran's menu features small plates with a "touch of Provence, Piemonte and New Orleans," including gumbo, charcuterie, caponata-stuffed green squash with pesto sauce and fried olives, wild boar chili verde with white bean ragout and a Pinot Noir-infused beef burger with red onions, cheddar cheese and remoulade sauce. The wine list features more than 300 wines, and the owners claim they have the largest selection of Pinot Noir in Los Angeles". Noir Food & Wine, 40 N. Mentor Ave., Pasadena. (626) 795-7199. www.noirfoodandwine.com.

-- Jessica Gelt

Craig Strong to leave the Langham

2009-05-22T06:27:00.000-07:00

Craig Strong, the chef that put the Ritz Carlton Pasadena on the map will be leaving for greener pastures in June. The new gig will give him the freedom of expression he needs. He is leaving the Langham on May 20th and getting married to his long time girl friend Lissa on the 23rd.
Craig will be at the Studio Restaurant at the Montage Laguna Niguel in OC.

Montage Laguna Beach
30801 South Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Phone: ((949) 715-6420
Fax: (949) 715-6100

News about Noir Food & Wine in Pasadena

2009-04-17T01:58:00.000-07:00

Claud Beltran has his own catering company, but something new is in the wind.

It seems finally after a couple of false starts the new food & wine establishment is set to launch this July. The creation of Mike Farwell and Alex Gallego the new cafe will feature the small plate cuisine of Claud Beltran formerly of Madeleines on Green Street. The new project will happen in two phases, the first being the opening of the Cafe at 40 North Mentor Avenue next to the Ice House. Noir will serve wine with small plates and dishes with a definite New Orleans flair. It'll be casual and charming, a neighborhood gem with lots of great dishes and excellent wines by the glass to enjoy. Phase two will be the addition of an outside patio with a water fall and will be covered for winter. We're pretty sure some of Claud's specialties will appear on a few of those small plates!

We look forward to this new venture coming this June.
Noir Food & Wine
40 North Mentor Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91106
626.795.7199
fax 323.257.4395
mike@mikefarwell.com
Note: There are rumors that Kate Evans formerly the proprietor at the Crepe Vine Wine Bar in Old Pasadena may round out this trio of food and wine entrepreneurs.

CLAUD BELTRAN OREGON WINE DINNER

2009-03-23T03:39:00.000-07:00

Chef Claud Beltran formerly of Madeleines and Restaurant Halie is catering a Wine Tasting Dinner in Pasadena. Featuring Domaine Serene, Domaine Drouhin, Ayoub & Argle Pinot Noir & Chardonnay. Date to be announced later.
The tasting is scheduled for early summer at NOIR Food & Wine in Pasadena.

THE DINING ROOM

2009-03-06T09:03:00.000-08:00

The Dining Room at the Langham now has its own website.
CLICK HERE

ITALIAN WINE TASTING MARCH 13, 2009

2009-03-06T05:46:00.000-08:00

Scroll down below for entire article on the tasting, don't miss this event!
Signup at: mikefarwell.com

CLAUD BELTRAN LEAVES MADELEINES

2009-03-06T04:57:00.000-08:00

After two differenent stints at the Greenstreet Restaurant Claud has moved on. The highly reviewed chef worked for both Restaurant Halie and Madeleines over the last four years. He was instrumental in the 2 stars received from S. Irene Virbila of the L.A. Times and the 26 point food rating in Zagat, although the score had dipped to 24 in the latest Zagat he was still was an icon at the location. Known for his lamb and scallop dishes Claud is also a creative force in Pasadena for the last fifteen years. Rumors should be available soon and we'll let you know the latest on his whereabouts.

website & catering 626.234.6081

MALBEC NEW PASADENA RESTAURANT HIDEOUT

2009-03-05T18:05:00.000-08:00

Hidden within a couple of blocks of Bistro 45 is this new jewel on Green Street.
Check it out, plenty of Malbec on the Wine List. Open for lunch and dinner;
Hours: Mon-Thurs: 11am-9pm, Fri & Sat: 11am-11pm, Sun: 11am-9pm

1001 E Green St
Pasadena, CA 91106
Phone: (626) 683-0550