Hirsch Winemaker dinner @ Alexanders Steakhouse (Cupertino)

Jasmine Hirsch of Hirsch Vineyards told us about the winery, family history, and paired the wines with an excellent Alexanders meal. I could not take notes, but here are my best recollections.......

First was the 2010 Chardonnay from their Estate paired with Scallop Crudo - crispy yuba, apple butter, tomato. This dish was an excellent compliment to the Chardonnay.

Next was the 2010 Hirsch Bohan Dillon Pinot Noir. This was paired with Duck Liver Parfait - smoked beef jelly and brioche. This dish was a little confusing because of the creaminess of the parfait but then the smoked beef jelly just didn't blend well with the dish in my opinion. The Pinot was outstanding with the dish though.

Third course was 2009 Hirsch "San Andreas Fault" Estate Pinot Noir. Paired with Lam Loin Katsu - mint pistou, maitake, eucalyptus meringue. Quite arguably the best dish in my opinion. The whole dish sang with flavor and the eucalyptus meringue was very unique and tied the dish well together. The Pinot was superb and was my favorite Pinot of the night.

Fourth course was the 2009 Hirsch "East Ridge" Estate Pinot Noir. This was paired with Dry Aged Ny Strip Steak - asparagus, horseradish, mustard seed reduction sauce. Oops, my steak was sent back but the chef was excellent with immediately getting me a new dish quickly. This was paired with the "bigger" Pinot which was more fruit forward and was an excellent match.

Pale in color, this had citrus on the nose with a hint of baking spices. In the mouth this was a lean and silky chardonnay. Excellent high end chardonnay. Great acidity as well. 93pts.

Aromas of currant, cherry, and hint of floral. In the mouth, nice texture with more cherry and a nice finish. 89pts.

Wonderful aromas or cherry, mineral, anise, and tobacco. Very nice texture in the mouth and much leaner than the others. More elegant in my opinion with lingering fruit flavors. 92pts.

More fruit forward with cherry, smoke, mineral, and red currant. In the mouth it is a bigger brother to the San Andreas and paired well with the NY Steak. 90pts.

Great event and Jasmine was a wonderful hostess and rep for her family winery. :-)