San Diego, Island Prime

You know that perfect moment, the one where you are in an utterly beautiful place, with people you really like, and the food and wine together take you to culinary heaven? That was my evening. I'm in San Diego for work, teaching a training class with a co-worker I really like, who lives here. Gillian told me she and her husband, Pete, were taking me to dinner tonight, so after a long and fun day of teaching, off we went to Harbor Island and the lovely, scenic Island Prime. Don't let the name fool you, the menu is quite eclectic and has more than enough selections for everyone's taste. We sat outside on a beautiful San Diego evening (really, is there any other kind?) and enjoyed a spectacular view of the harbor, Coronado bridge and the lights of downtown San Diego.

What I drank:
Viognier, Hawley, Sonoma County (by the glass, no vintage listed)
The wine had a good nose of apple and lemon with a touch of grapefruit. This was a nicely balanced viognier with initial flavors of apple, lemon and honey, progressing to a rich, honey citrus flavor mid-palate, and ending with full, lush honey and date flavors. While the wine was well-balanced and flavorful, I thought it was just a touch too sweet. Then, I tried it with my dinner, a "Hawaiian Ahi Stack" of ahi, crab, avocado, sweet red peppers, fresh herbs and a lovely little side of red and black caviar. Cue the angels singing! The wine paired perfectly with the food, and together I had that moment of bliss that says, "Remember me the next time you're feeling a little blue." I give it an 8 out of 10 points for its food-wine nirvana moment.

I just have to say if you ever find yourself in San Diego, go to Island Prime and ask for patio seating. You will not be disappointed. Gillian and Pete both enjoyed their meals and their wines as well, Gillian had the Franc Family Chardonnay and Pete had a very nice Merlot (the name of which I forgot to record as Pete was telling a very funny story when I tasted his wine.)

A memory to keep me warm and happy on the gloomiest, rainiest Sacramento winter day! Thank you so much to my dear friends who created this perfect moment.