Last Saturday, my friend, BU Wine School Classmate and proprietor of East Side Market, Steve Neidhardt asked me to host the weekly tasting at The Main Course in Canton, MA. I had some big shoes to fill for ”The Wine Guy”, Steve’s alter ego at The Main Course, but I was up for the challenge. Well, the wine challenge at least, since I was told that there was no mistaking Steve for me by Bob “The Butcher”, The Main Course’s backbone. (I’ll forgo detailing the differences in the name of modesty). If that wasn’t proof enough, every third customer asked “Where’s Steve today?”
The Main Course is a purveyor of fine meats, seafood (fresh daily), prepared foods and, most of all, an exceptionally fun and friendly experience. Us city dwellers often avoid and fear the ‘burbs, but it is worth becoming a regular, even if you’re not a local. Come in for the Saturday tasting and leave with all the fixings for the evening’s dinner.
This week’s tasting showcased four wines from 90+ Cellars. If you are new to 90+, here’s what the horse says,
We are taking advantage of the current economic conditions by purchasing high quality and highly rated finished wines direct from wineries at a discount and then passing the savings on to you. Price and availability aren’t the only selection criteria. The wines we purchase must have a pedigree of 90 or higher ratings, best buy or gold medal accolades from a respected wine authority or publication…
I had heard of the wines, but have not the opportunity to try them. The best of the bunch for me was the McClaren Vale Chardonnay (Lot 11), closely followed by the Napa Valley Merlot (Lot 17). The Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc (Lot 2) was typical and adequate (not my bag of chips) but the Napa Valley Pinot Grigio (Lot 16) was the most forgettable of the bunch.
Bottom line, I am intrigued by and applaud what the folks at 90+ Cellars have done and look forward to trying the other wines in their portfolio.
Mostly, I enjoyed the company of The Main Course and their clientele. It was a great way to spend a beautiful New England spring afternoon,
Just don’t ask Bob for salsa for your chips.
