The Charlottesville 29

If there were just 29 restaurants in Charlottesville, what would be the ideal 29?

Tag: Montifalco Vineyard

01/17/2020

Five Finds on Friday: Whitney Matthews

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Today’s Five Finds on Friday come from Whitney Matthews of SpiceSea Gourmet, three time finalist for Best Food Truck in Charlottesville. To find her stellar po boys, lobster/shrimp rolls, and more around town, check the monthly calendar on her website and follow along on her Facebook page. Matthews’ picks:

1) Garlicky Greens Kraut from Farmstead Ferments. “I (and my mother) love this kraut. It goes with everything – eggs in the morning, sandwiches for lunch, or straight out of the jar. It’s always crisp and full of flavor. There is always a jar in my refrigerator.”

2) Canelés from MarieBette. “This is my extra special treat. Canelés are not a typical pastry to find, but MarieBette always has them and they are always delicious. Biting through the thick caramelized crust into the custard center is my favorite part.”

3) Cabernet Franc Reserve from Montifalco Vineyard. “This wine is wonderful. Not too heavy, lovely mouth feel, and pairs great with a steak. One of my favorite wines from the region. Also, the atmosphere at Montifalco is perect – welcoming, calming, small, and charming. The owners take special care to make sure each guest has an exceptional experience. They also bring in wines from around the world to add to their tasting flights. A great, small batch winery.”

4) Classic Tomato Sauce from Nona’s Italian Cucina. “Such a versatile sauce. I’ve used it for classic pasta dishes, baked with zucchini and mozzarella, and as a dip for baguettes. I always imagine a little Italian nona standing over a stove stirring her pot when I open a bottle. I love that you can taste the garlic and parsley shining through the tomato. The wife and husband team are frequently at the City Market and they take the time to give samples and talk about the sauce.”

5) Fried Chicken Paffle from Iron Paffles & Coffee. “First, all the sandwiches from Iron are amazing, but there’s something about the crunch of the chicken that keeps me coming back. You can build your own chicken paffle to fit what you desire – pepper jack cheese, aioli, and arugula for me. Also, their Instagram page is great. All those beautiful pictures of specials and desserts. It’s mouthwatering.”

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10/25/2019

Five Finds on Friday: Amy Worrell

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Today’s Five Finds on Friday come from Amy Worrell of Cavalier Produce, who will be at Caromont Farm November 17 for the 2019 Fall Farmily Reunion. The goat farm’s fifth annual celebration of all things Virginia, it will again bring together local artisans, chefs, and goat lovers. Worrell will provide a holiday cheese board demonstration, while Sussex Farm’s Jen Naylor will cook her beloved Korean food. Others include Virginia Vinegar Works, Robert Harley for wine, and Grubby Girl for soaps and honey. To celebrate fall at Virginia’s favorite goat farm, info and tickets here. Worrell’s picks:

1) Charred Carrots at Oakhart Social. “I’m pretty sure that this has been mentioned before, but the charred carrots at Oakhart Social are simply amazing. Need I say more.”

2) Fish and Chips with Hydraulion Red at Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen and Brewery. “I usually order the fish and chips with the Hydraulion Red, an Irish-style ale brewed as a salute to UVa’s historic fire brigade, as well as to firefighters everywhere. Their newer space at the Ix Park has an airy feel, featuring an open kitchen where you can watch your food being prepared.”

3) 2016 Meritage at Montifalco Vineyard. “Some friends introduced me to this little hide-away in the hills just south of Ruckersville, recently opened by a winemaker transplanted from the California wine country. Sipping wine outside while sitting between the farmhouse and the vines feels like visiting a small family vineyard in the French countryside. Aged in Bordeaux oak, the 2016 Meritage is a well balanced full bodied red with soft, not overly assertive, tannins.”

4) Grilled Corn at Chicano Boy Taco. “For me, Chicano Boy Taco in Staunton is a must before or after hitting nearby Redbeard Brewing. The food, in the style of the San Francisco Mission District, is always vibrant and fresh. I usually get the grilled corn, chips with house-made guacamole, and an assortment of tacos, which you can mix and match to hit all your senses.”

5) Rose at Moss Vineyards. “Moss Vineyards is a hidden gem, a hilltop winery with excellent wines and panoramic views. If it’s available, you should try the Rose. It’s a perfect place to bring a picnic including your favorite cheeses and enjoy the mountain scenery.”

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Charred carrots.  Photo by Tom McGovern.

 

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