Restaurant and Wine Review

I went to Mochica Peruvian Restaurant on Harrison St. in San Francisco last week because I am a member of OpenTable.com and bought a gift certificate for $25 worth $50.  What a great way to explore restaurants that sound interesting.  We had a variety of authentic Peruvian tapas with some great wines. What stood out the most was a great atmosphere, great presentation and great service.  Don't miss the Costillita de Chancho ($12), pork spareribs glazed with the chef's BBQ sauce. With the tapas (small plates), we started with an Albarinofrom Rias Baixas, Spain, Laxas 2009 ($34).  It was delicious, tangy with balanced acids which paired well with the Pulpito a la Parilla ($12), grilled baby octopus a la parilla with mashed potato and chimichurri.  For an entree, I loved the Churrasco a la Parilla ($21) which is Natural feed NY steak with yucca fries.  The yucca fries are to die for.  We paired that with a Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina from Bautista Simona 2008 ($30).  It was full-bodied, nice fruit and a silky tannin finish.  It was the most full-bodied Malbec I ever tasted.  Overall, it is a great place to hang out, for parties and for an adventure.  The wine list is selected by Chef/Owner Carlos Altamirano "with his food as a guide".  Que Rico!

06 Zin Cooper Vineyards

Located in the Shenandoah Valley, California, Cooper Vineyards 06 Zin won the blind tasting at last Sunday's event at the Back Wine Bar in Folsom CA. I also voted for this Zin, candied apple, cinnamon, smooth finish/tannins. It is an excellent wine for $23 bucks. Mike Roser is the winemaker of this award winning wine.

Cameron Hughes Lot 119

I think that Lot 119, Meritage is my favorite blend from Cameron Hughes so far. From Alexander Valley and Sonoma, this bordeaux blend really hits the mark. Big, bold and jammy. Something I can afford to buy at under $15. Compare same quality for over $30 for sure.