Following a successful wine and dinner event at sister restaurant Chestnut, The Corner Kitchen will host three wine pairing dinners March through April. The prix menu will feature wines personally chosen by Sommelier Steve Pignatiello. These hand-picked selections will come from the private cellars of small family winemakers in celebrated French communes such as Meursault, Pommard, Gevrey-Chambertin, among others.
Sommelier Steve Pignatiello first traveled to France as a Dartmouth College student in 1979. Over the past 39 years, he has gained a comprehensive knowledge of the country. His passion centers on the world-famous wine region called “La Bourgogne” (Burgundy). Pignatiello says, “Burgundy is a way of life. It’s a tiny region where the best wines are made by mom-and-pop operations, not large corporations.”
Wine trends for 2019 are strongly calling for a renewed focus on French wines, particularly those from Burgundy, according to Forbes.
Like Asheville’s recent press, there is global attention now on France’s artisan craftsmanship, sustainable businesses with ecofriendly practices, with a desire to support small family companies, like Domaine Parent, that have been making wine for over 200 years. Nicholas Emereau recently stated in The Drinks Business that we’ll see a focus once again on “the cool French regions: Burgundy, Alsace and the Loire Valley have their role to play.”
Week one’s menu included:
- 1st Course – Salad Lyonnaise: Frisee Tossed in Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette with slow Poached Egg and Bacon Lardons
- 2nd Course – Foie Gras Torchon: Brandy Figs, Sea Salt, Brioche, Brown Butter and Red Wine Pickled Shallots
- 3rd Course – Beef & French Onion: Seared Brasstown Ribeye with Sherry Caramelized Onion, Beef Broth Reduction, Peas, and Gruyere Cheese Straw
The two remaining dates for the 3-Course Dinner Pairing Menus are March 28 and April 4 and the menus will be announced prior to the dates. The cost is $75 per person (does not include tax and gratuity). Reservations are not necessary but are highly encouraged. The Corner Kitchen’s established bistro fare also will be available.
The Corner Kitchen welcomes new and loyal guests to take part in this deliciously educational experience. For reservations, please call 828-274-2439.
ABOUT THE CORNER KITCHEN:
The Corner Kitchen is a historic and storied restaurant in the heart of Asheville’s renowned Biltmore Village. Order a unique cocktail and gaze upon the mountain sky from the comfort of our pristine patio. Find out what locals have known for nearly 16 years — dinner doesn’t only happen downtown in Asheville. https://thecornerkitchen.com
March 15, 2019