The restaurant West in Vancouver, BC has been a staple in the restaurant scene for years. Offering amazing service, a small welcoming room, incredible food and a wine list that’s been curated to be savored and enjoyed.
But, guess what? This iconic restaurant will be closing its doors at the end of 2019.
Therefore, I wanted to share with you my last dinner there in February during the Vancouver Int’l Wine Festival. And, it’s perfect timing for two reasons:
- You can start planning and take advantage of a discount for the next Vancouver Int’l Wine Festival, featuring France February 22 to March 1st! This is the largest consumer Wine Festival in North America, you really should not miss it! Starting November 6 at 9:30 a.m., wine lovers can save $10 off International Festival Tasting (IFT) tickets for the 42nd Vancouver International Wine Festival. Or book one of 39 downtown hotels available through StayVancouverHotels.com to get a free IFT ticket, a saving of up to $115. The Delta Air Lines Tasting Lounge and the Gold Pass are also on sale in advance at a discount.
- Enjoy West Restaurant before they close at the end of 2019. They are offering a Fall Prix Fixe, a 3-course menu that can be enjoyed Sundays through Thursdays and Friday & Saturday evening until 6 pm. West Restaurant
I hope this inspires you to try their wines, and perhaps get out to enjoy West Restaurant soon!
A stunning dinner paired with Stags’ Leap wines from Napa Valley, California, while sitting across from Joanne Wing, the winemaker…
You may know the name – Stags Leap from the historic name battle or from the Judgment of Paris which happened in 1976. Although Stags’ Leap Winery didn’t participate, it’s neighbour Stag’s Leap Winery did, which put them both on the international map because of their recognition at this judgement. “The Judgment of Paris” tasting at which the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 1973 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon took top honors among the red wines, triumphing over two first-growth and other renowned wines of Bordeaux.”
There are two Stags Leap Wineries in Napa Valley. “This made Napa and the winery itself internationally renowned. The Stags Leap District is known for its rocky soils. There are two Stags Leap District wineries. Read carefully, Stag’s Leap and Stags‘ Leap – make note of the singular vs. plural possessives.”
Here is the beautiful menu prepared for the Stags’ Leap wines…
Canapés
SAWMILL BAY OYSTERS
viognier jelly, dill, crispy parmesan, roasted mushroom, truffled chantilly
paired with: Stags’ Leap Viognier 2017, Napa Valley
This viognier was light and beautiful with medium acidity, making it so enjoyable.
First Course
KANPACHI CRUDO
fennel, blood orange, coriander
paired with: Stags’ Leap Chardonnay 2016, Napa Valley
A medium style of chardonnay with vibrancy, it was the perfect pairing!
Second Course
BEETROOT SALAD
burrata cheese, avocado, pumpkin seed vinaigrette
paired with: Stags’ Leap Merlot 2016, Napa Valley
The earthy notes of the beets and burrata brought out the earth notes in the Merlot,
if you are not a Merlot lover – this would change you forever.
Third Course
SLOW COOKED PORK CHEEKS RAVIOLI
roasted onions, grana padano
paired with: Stags’ Leap Petite Sirah 2016, Napa Valley
The pork wasn’t too fatty, which brought out the sweeter notes of the wine.
The pairing made me think of pork sliders, and how this pairing would wow a crowd.
Entrée
ROASTED HOLSTEIN STRIPLOIN
wild mushroom and leek tart, black truffle flakes and jus
paired with: Stags’ Leap The Investor Red Blend 2015, Napa Valley
This was my favourite out of the two, it lifted the flavours of the food and the wine
Stags’ Leap Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Napa Valley
A very big Cab, yet sooo smooth.
Cheese
WARM GOUGERES
st. albert cheese, preserved quince
paired with: Stags’ Leap The Leap Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, Napa Valley
What an evening sharing time with the down to earth winemaker and enjoying an amazing dinner.
“I never drink this much red wine, this time after harvest, I usually drink a beer.“
– Joanne Wing, Winemaker, Stags’ Leap Winery
Until next time, keep exploring and enjoying more wine from around the world. Cheers!
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