Patrons enjoy flavors from the upcoming JOEL’S CHOPHOUSE through an entertaining tour of fine wines…
Being a former resident of Oregon’s trendy “wine country”, this writer has attended many a wine-tasting event. The atmosphere at these gatherings is always an interesting blend of sophistication, relaxation, and socialization. What better way to make new friends than by a sharing conversation over sips of vino?
As Ahern Hotel continues to raise its profile among diners, conventioneers, and boutique hotel fans, Chef Joel Ott has wisely rolled out an event that brings attention to its splendid wine collection. Chef Ott’s wine-pairing dinners are hosted by a featured sommelier who, between marvelously-creative courses, offers entertaining detail about what is being sampled.
Earlier this week I told you about Ottimo Pizza Kitchen, a rebranding of the former Trattoria by Chef Joel. Next on the horizon is Joel’s Chophouse, a long-in-the-works steakhouse on the second level. Currently under renovation with a bar being added to the exterior, Joel’s Chophouse should come online later this year.
In the meantime, Chef Joel has an opportunity to present a myriad of dishes within the framework of periodic Wine-Pairing Dinners. VEGAS 411 attended the most recent, which took place March 23rd within AHERN LIVE. This is the hotel’s showroom lounge, which provides beautiful sunset views through panoramic windows.
Chef Ott’s sommelier was Mr. Carmelo Messina of ItalysBestWineTours.com. The theme of the evening was “Wines of Veneto”, a large and complex region in northeastern Italy. Veneto’s unique climate produces a wide variety of grapes. Known for Valpolicella, Amarone and Bardolino wines, the Veneto region is also the birthplace of Prosecco.
The six-course dinner was a magnificent representation of Chef Joel’s Italy-inspired creations. Each course was paired with a serving of an ideal Veneto wine. While providing a wealth of details, Mr. Messina was as charismatic as he was informative:
Dinner began with Beef Carpaccio Crostini, a finely sliced beef layer atop crispy focaccia bread with salsa verde and shaved parmigiano regianno. It was accompanied by a glass of De Paulo Prosecco.
Course #2 was Spaghetti alla Chitarra Aglio Olio e pepperoncino. The dish consisted of a thick spaghetti simmered with garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and a hint of Calabrian chili. It was finished with bottarga, a labor-intensive fish delicacy. Villa San Zino Pino Grigio accompanied this serving.
As we reached the midpoint, a pair of local musicians performed a variety of familiar and regional songs. The third course was indeed an eye-opener. Named Polipetti al Nero di Seppia, it consisted of grilled baby octopus over creamy polenta and finished with black cuttlefish ink. Paired with this dish was Villa San Zeno Soave.
Two Villa San Reno wines were poured next, in keeping with a dish entitled “Duo of Rise e Bisi“. Translated as “Rice and Peas”, fresh English peas were blended in creamy parmigiano reggiano risotto. Sharing the plate was a slice of slow-cooked pork belly “porchetta” with garlic and herb seasoning, crackling skin, and gremolata (a green sauce made with parsley).
Next was a beautiful 30-day Dry-Aged Prime Beef, accompanied by a slice of gorgonzola piccante, sauteed rapini with garlic, and a red wine bordelaise. A glorious Case Bianche Cabernet Sauvignon brought the course to a close.
Unfortunately, this writer had to dash to another event in the Arts District and missed out on dessert. It was a trio of Chocolate Truffles…dark chocolate orange, milk chocolate caramel, and white chocolate raspberry. My guest told me that they were amazing. An entertainer in multiple Vegas shows, he remained for post-dinner dancing, then the event came to a successful close.
April’s Wine-pairing Dinner was put on hold so that Chef Joel and his culinary team could prepare for the grand opening of Ottimo Pizza Kitchen (details here). He assures me that they will return starting in May. You can follow all of the promotions and happenings at Ahern Hotel by subscribing to their email notifications here.
Ahern Hotel is located at 300 W. Sahara Avenue. Call 725-214-4950 for reservations or visit online by clicking here.
