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Special Rioja Wine Dinner at Victoria Wine Festival

Join DOCa Rioja and The Courtney Room on September 29th for a special wine dinner during the Victoria International Wine Festival. This special Rioja Wine Diner event promises an evening of delicious food expertly paired with exceptional Rioja wines.

Colin Davidson, wine director at The Courtney Room and winner of the Victoria’s Best Sommelier Award 2023, has put together an incredible selection of Rioja wines to pair perfectly with each course. His expertise guarantees a fantastic experience for wine lovers.

The Culinary Journey Through Rioja: Wine-Paired Dinner Menu

Amuse-bouche

Cashew Cromesquis
A delightful small bite, crispy on the outside with a creamy cashew filling.

Paired with Bodegas Muga Rioja Blanco, a blend of Viura and Garnacha Blanca from La Rioja, Spain. This wine offers a fresh, vibrant pairing for the dish.

First Course

Marinated White Anchovies
Served with kale, pickled garlic, manchego cheese, verjus, and olive oil, creating a balanced, Mediterranean-inspired dish.

Paired with Bodegas Viña Ane Centenaria, a blend of Viura and Malvasia. This bright, structured wine from La Rioja adds complexity to the flavors of the anchovies.

Second Course

Crispy Chicken Egg
Crispy and savory, paired with tender chicken leg confit, Swiss chard, and a rich brown butter jus.

Paired with two wines:

Bodegas Viña Ane Autor (Magnum) is a full-bodied Tempranillo that complements the dish’s richness.
Marques de Riscal XR Reserva blends Tempranillo and Graciano, offering depth and elegance.

Third Course

Braised Pork Coppa
A hearty dish served with nixtamalized corn purée, farro, and savory oats, combining robust flavors with earthy elements.

Paired with two Rioja wines:

Bodegas Olarra Cerro Añón Reserva, a blend of Tempranillo and Mazuelo, adds layers of complexity and structure.
Bodegas Faustino Rioja Gran Reserva, a Tempranillo showcasing deep, mature flavors.

Dessert

Petit Fours
A selection of Chef Kelly’s favorite sweet bites to finish the meal on a delightful note.

This menu thoughtfully combines bold Spanish flavors and world-class Rioja wines, with each course carefully curated to create a memorable dining experience.

Click here to view the menu for the evening.

Special guest, renowned expert Dr. John Volpe, will be speaking at the event, offering unique insights into the intersection of wine, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. His knowledge and expertise provide thoughtful perspective on how wine production impacts the environment and how sustainable practices can shape the future of the industry.

Plus, enjoy live music from local Flamenco artist Imanah Kani.

For more details, visit the event page.

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