www.montereycountynow.com FEBRUARY 13-19, 2025 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 35 CHILL Why leave Champagne to the New Year? There are other occasions to celebrate. Fortunately Monterey County is well-stocked with sparkling wine— Caraccioli Cellars and Scheid Vineyards, for example, produce stellar examples. But there is another label to try, one that can be both thoughtful and playful in its approach. Odonata on River Road currently offers three distinct sparklers. Winemaker Denis Hoey treats each to the traditional and painstaking methode champenoise, but aims for different targets. The 2020 Odonata Blanc de Blancs is a go-to wine, sitting for 38 months on yeast in the bottle. It is perky, with notions of pear and citrus, with a soft salinity and a finish reminiscent of husked grain. Meanwhile, the 2018 Reserve Blanc de Blancs is dusted off after more than four years in the bottle. While both are from 100-percent Chardonnay, the older vintage offers impressions of cured lemon and bright apple, with a toasted caramel that opens into something like a meadow in bloom. Yet it is also a happy wine, with a sharp, brisk effervescence. The 2021 Sparkling Grenache Rouge truly catches Cupid’s eye. The wine is, after all, of an alluring ruby hue. And it arouses the senses with charming notes of strawberry and raspberry. A soft blush of rose petals and hint of worn leather provide balance. Richer in body, the flavors coat the palate. It’s suited for a Valentine’s Day toast. ” Odonata, 645 River Road, Salinas. 566-5147, odonatawines.com. Pop Top Three sparkling wines from Odonata are ready for anything, including Valentine’s Day. By Dave Faries SEND IDEAS TO: chill@montereycountynow.com DAVE FARIES Domenico’s on the Wharf features Cioppino–a house specialty, Boat to Table Wild Alaskan Salmon, Oysters Rockefeller are a sample of the many great menu choices. Also enjoy Fine Wines and Cocktails, Desserts and Great Service. A local favorite celebrating 43 YEARS on Old Fisherman’s Wharf. 50 OLD FISHERMAN’S WHARF MONTEREY • 831-372-3655 www.domenicosmonterey.com Open Daily 11:30am to close Fresh Seafood, Italian Classics, Prime Steaks, with Beautiful Harbor Views. Make Valentine’s Day Reservations! If You Haven’t, You’re Missing Out! Paninis, Soup, Salads, Pinsa Romana, Craft Beer & Wine Vegetarian and gluten free items. Dine in or take out. Indoor and outdoor seating. Located on the Coast Guard Pier with views of Monterey Bay. 32 Cannery Row, Suite C, Monterey • (831) 718-8520 Catering and events up to 40 people available Sandwiches - Salads - Craft Beers - Wine - Coffee 831-324-4282 110 Central Ave, Pacific Grove www.ilvecchiorestaurant.com Now ServiNg weekeNd BruNch 8am-11:30am Lunch 11:30am -2pm dinner 5pm-9pm SEASIDE’S FINEST THIN CRUST PIZZA SOURDOUGH PIZZA SALADS &CALZONES • • DRAFT BEER • • DINE-IN, TAKE-OUT 720 BROADWAY AVE. SEASIDE 831-899-1762 DELIVERY AVAILABLE FRESH. LOCAL. TASTY. Fisherman’s Wharf FRESHEST SEAFOOD with PANORAMIC VIEWS Open Daily at 11:30am • At the end of Fisherman’s Wharf #1 www.rockfishmonterey.com • 831.324.4375
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