The new U.S. President Barack Obama has a huge job ahead of him.  He definitely needs to keep up his strength.  So it’s good to know that he will be fed well.  In fact, his first meal as President of the United States included three different California wines.  I’d say that’s a good start!

The Inaugural Luncheon, eaten by the President, the First Lady and many other political hot shots was served shortly after the new President took the oath of office.

I did not want to neglect my patriotic duties as red-blooded and hungry American, so I feel compelled to share the recipes and the wines they were paired with.  

Here’s it goes… can I get a 21 gun salute anyone?

FIRST COURSE

Seafood Stew

Duckhorn Vineyards, 2007 Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley

Winemaker Notes:  This lush and inviting Sauvignon Blanc combines a rich, creamy mouth feel with bright acidity and a long, refreshing finish. The aroma brings together appealing elements of Meyer lemon, grapefruit, orange blossom and peach nectar, with hints of honeysuckle and graham crackers. On the palate, tropical flavors of pineapple and mango are complemented by layers of citrus, peach and ginger spice.  ($27)

SECOND COURSE

A Brace of American Birds (pheasant and duck), served with Sour Cherry Chutney and Molasses Sweet Potatoes

Goldeneye, 2005 Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley

Winemaker Notes:  This well-balanced, medium-weight wine offers bright acidity and a long, satisfying finish. The aroma is rich and evocative of dark cherries, nutmeg, caramelized apple, cinnamon and clove. On the palate, it is full of plum, spice, cherry, strawberry and vanilla oak layers. Though delicate and understated, this wine’s compelling force of flavor, weight and potent spice create a depth and density that cannot be missed. Drink until 2015.  ($55)

THIRD COURSE
Apple Cinnamon Sponge Cake and Sweet Cream Glace’

Paired with

Korbel Natural “Special Inaugural Cuvee,” California Champagne (Please note:  You cannot purchase the “Special Inaugural Cuvee” which was bottled in special magnums just for this event.  But you can purchase the same exact wine, just in a different bottle.)

Korbel California Champagne, 2006 Natural

Winemaker Notes:  Russian River Valley Pinot Noir is always at the heart of Korbel Natural. Eleven unique Pinot Noir vineyards were used in the final 2006 blend. Pinot Noir gives our Natural a delicately rounded fruit profile of tart cherries and raspberries. The Chardonnay portion of the 2006 Natural blend came from seven different vineyards, many of which are in the coolest portions of the Russian River Valley and contribute to the firm, crisp green-apple backbone.   ($11.99)

Go to www.Korbel.com for more information.  But hurry, the 1.5L ($23.99) is sold out.  The 750ml is going fast as well.

Duckhorn Vineyards and Goldeneye are sister wineries and are selling their Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir in a “Presidential Pair” gift pack which includes the two wines, the Inaugural Luncheon menu and recipes, packaged in a wooden gift box.  ($95)  Got to their websites:  www.duckhornvineyards.com or www.goldeneyewinery.com for details.

No matter what your political leanings, I think we can all agree… that’s one heck of a meal, paired with some fantastic wines.  God bless America!   

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