Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/580744
{ SOMMjournal.com } 71 Jean-François Mérieau 2011 "Cent Visages" 100% Côt (Malbec) Exotic spices round out the dark and smoky palate of this violet packed wine. Pascal Pibaleau 2013 "L'Heritage d'Aziaum" Rouge 70% Côt (Malbec), 25% Cabernet Franc, 5% Gamay Bright and fresh, with a touch of cider and yeastiness on the nose. The Menu Charcuterie maison, seasonal accouterments. Kevin O'Conner, owner and Sommelier of Aestus in Santa Monica, served as our gracious host for the afternoon's event. A native of the Loire Valley himself, Chef Alex Ageneau curated a special Loire-centric menu for the day's tasting. Ben McGroarty, Loire Valley Buyer for Langdon Shiverick Imports. Guillaume Lavigne, Account Manager for Sopexa USA. 7 2 6 8 Smoked trout rillettes. Manila clams "marinière." 1 4 5 2 3 6 Baked Crottin de Chavignon, beets, walnuts, mâche, bacon. Wild Salmon au beurre rouge, shallots, grilled leeks 1 3 7 4 5 8 8 The flexibility and diversity of the Touraine AOP made them perfect partners for Aestus's offerings. Numbers below correspond to the wines and our favorite pairings.