IRS Rebate Dinner

Shane’s Notes

We decided to blow some of our rebate money at the Sundance Steakhouse in Palo Alto. We enjoy the Sundance – the ambience is nice, the service is quick and friendly and the food is really good. However, the wine list leaves a little to be desired. The wine list consists primarily of American wines and especially, expensive Napa cabs. Every good wine list should have a variety of choices under $60 for the cost conscious (best candidates are basic CDR’s and a few inexpensive Italian wines like Montepulciano, Dolcetto or Barbera).

The wine list had only two Southern Rhones, the Guigal Chateauneuf and the Chapoutier Chateauneuf. We had the Guigal the last time we ate here so we went with the 2005 Chapoutier “La Bernadine” Chateauneuf ($49.99 in the store, I think we paid over $100 at the restaurant) and had it decanted. The aroma boasted cigar box scents with some funk underneath. The palate showed sweet strawberry, compote and herbs. The texture was silky and the palate was subtle yet focused. It was also brambly and smoky. This was a magnificent wine and one of the best Chateauneufs we have tasted.

I always prefer to drink my dessert and certainly couldn’t pass up the opportunity to have a glass of Graham’s 1983 Vintage Port. This wine is definitely peaking right now. The palate is smooth and the finish is endless. The palate shows strong anise and black cherry with undertones of brown sugar. This is a very rich port and one of the better vintage ports I’ve tasted.