A friend of mine is mad about Gewurztraminer. To dinner parties and events that we attend together, she always brings a bottle of this white wine to drink—paying no attention to the wonderful reds of this world.
But the spicy Gewurztraminer is a solo star, and Thomas Fogarty Winery makes an exceptional one. The Germanic grape Gewurztraminer (gewurtz means “spice” in German) has lots of aromatics and an abundance of exotic fruits. And Fogarty’s well-made Gewurtz is awash with lychee, jasmine and candied ginger, for which we have winemaker Nathan Kandler to thank. Low in acidity, it pairs well with rich white meats like turkey—so it’s perfect for when Thanksgiving comes around. But, if you’re like my friend, you will appreciate Gewurztraminer’s rich body, and drink it with anything—whether it pairs well or not.
This 2015 Gewurtz, made from 100-percent Gewurztraminer grapes from Monterey County, sells for $24 in Fogarty’s tasting room, but it can be found in many local stores for less—often on sale. Thomas Fogarty Winery is a member of the Santa Cruz Mountains Winegrowers Association. Visit scmwa.com for more info.
Thomas Fogarty Winery, 19501 Skyline Blvd., Woodside, 650-851-6777. fogartywinery.com.
Waypoint at Quail Lodge
Carmel’s Quail Lodge has a new bar: Waypoint. Stopping by Quail Lodge recently for lunch at Edgar’s Restaurant, we also checked out Waypoint, which has been completely transformed from what was the Covey Bar & Grill. Waypoint’s grand opening in January revealed an impressively redesigned interior—complete with motorcycle artwork and a real motorcycle attached to a wall (from the Moto Talbott Motorcycle Museum in Carmel Valley), a homage to the signature motorsports events that take place at Quail Lodge. The new Waypoint now includes two pool tables, darts and other games—and theme nights are on the way as part of a focus to give customers a fun experience. Waypoint Bar & Deck features wines of the Central Coast, as well as terrific cocktails, beers and a tasty menu. The next Quail Motorcycle Gathering is Saturday, May 5.
Waypoint Bar & Deck, 8205 Valley Greens Drive, Carmel, 866-675-1101. Visit quaillodge.com/dining/waypoint for hours and more info.
