Roanoke Vineyard is a brilliant "bookend" (a term they use to describe the fact that they are at the far western end of the North Fork Wine Country) that offers stellar wines. In fact, their 'Blend One' came in on top of the 2010 "Judgement of Riverhead". I attended the "Judgement" where Long Island wines were matched up against wines from California and France. They held their own! What a night! But I digress....
Being in Roanoke's Wine Club I am entitled to free tastings whenever I visit the Vineyard. I like this! Andrew was driving so I did most of the sipping. I am now impressed by the 2009 Rose. I cannot believe that I now like a Rose better than Wolffer's. However, I must tell you that Wolffer and Roanoke share a winemaker - so I don't feel as guilty stepping out on my long time love affair with Wolffer Rose.
The 2009 Chardonnay was very nice too! I am at a loss for words to name these lovelies but I am returning to the vineyard to get a few bottles of the Rose and the Chardonnay for our Easter dinner at Pat's lovely home. I can't wait!
This red 2008 (I think) 'Marco Tulio' was awesome and very nice for the price (which I believe was $24).
Even 'Sweaty Betty' in her funky purple sneakers (that's how I roll) feels comfortable at Roanoake Vineyard. I actually feel like royalty when I roll in to pick up my wine and I cannot leave without gleaning some knowledge from the awesome staff.
And then we were off to our favorite restaurant - The Bay View Inn and Restaurant in Jamesport, NY (see previous birthday celebration post) - to have a needed 'date afternoon' together.
I will give you the backstory. Since we are on the 'Sweaty Betty' topic, I need to expand into the past. Back in the day, maybe 15 years ago Andrew and I were walking around on the beach on the Long Island Sound. We stopped in to a restaurant (The 2 x 4 in Wading River), sunburned and sandy, to look at the menu. We had meant to return after a quick shower. Doris, the owner, whisked us in and said that we should feel at home. 'Betty' liked this very much! The chef at the time was Tom Lopez. We were blown away by the hospitality and the food was insane! We kept coming back and had our (small) wedding reception there. Eventually, Chef Tom moved on to the Bay View Inn and like loyal foodies we followed him.
Mussels to die for! Thanks Tom!
I have to admit that we get these incredible Clams Casino every other time we visit. The taste is so savory and the bacon is so satisfying. And dipping the bread into the sauce makes it last longer.
The soup of the day was lentil with spicy Italian sausage. It is so right. My brother-In-Law Pete is a huge fan of Chef Tom's soups. We really need to do a family day at Bay View very soon!
The authentic Caesar Salad is fabulous and the view of the Peconic Bay is nice. Many times we walk to the beach after lunch or dinner to hold hands and walk off some of the dinner. Romance is not dead.
I went for the Shrimp BLT on Whole Grain Bread with special mayo and fries. I will let you into a little secret....Chef Tom (for me) makes this sandwich with grilled chicken to substitute the Shrimp. I am Royalty, aren't I?!
Afterwards, we went to look at our boatslip - in anticipation of April 15th, when we can put our little sailboat in the water. I love the Spring. And I notice that my stalkers are baack! ;)
I know that I was very expansive on this post - email me at freedom075@aol.com to let me know what you think! - Virginia
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