CorkRules - Episodes | Menton Menton

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About this Episode

Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas take a trip to Menton in Boston to review the wine list of this award-winning restaurant. The wine list is carefully curated and highlights small grower champagnes and rare vintages from lesser-known vineyards. Michaela points out a wine that is perfect for an aperitif, a stellar wine from a family vineyard that has been producing wine since 1626, a couple of value wines that will not disappoint, and if you want to go above and beyond your guests' expectations, a special bottle from Northern Rhone.

Wines reviewed include:

2018 “Vigneto di Tobia Verdicchio” dei Castelli di Jesi, Campania
2019 Domaine de Montvac Vacqueyras
2021 Thomas Sancerre Rose, Loire Valley

Transcript: Menton

Menton

RT: Hello and Welcome to CorkRules!

A podcast where, in each episode, we will review a Wine List from your favorite restaurants. I’m your host Robert Tas along with Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier.

Hello Michaela, it’s great to be back together for another episode.

MQ: Hi Robert!

RT: Before we jump in, let’s talk about CorkRules.

We created CorkRules to demystify wine lists because we know from experience, that sometimes when we get that list handed to us, well… it can be intimidating, and even a little daunting.

Our aim is to help prepare you to navigate that list, find those hidden gems, or value wines or that special bottle that will take your dining experience over the top.

RT: So, sit back and listen as we review your favorite wine list.

RT: Today we are talking about Menton located in Boston, MA. Menton boasts elegant formal dining with a modern flair. This is truly your destination for all events, from their pristine main dining room to private event spaces and a Chef’s Table that seats up to 12.

Michaela, I can’t wait to hear what do you think of their wine list?

MQ: I was dizzy just scrolling my way through their extensive spirits list on my way to the wine section. Just a tremendous selection for all palates and those looking to explore.

RT: That’s really great, as you looked at the list did you see anything jump out at you?

MQ: We know my love for Italian white wines, and a wonderful way to begin your dining experience at Menton is with the 2018 Vigneto di Tobia Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi from Campania. The verdicchio grape, as the name tells us, from the castles of Jesi, which is a subregion on Campania, along the calf of the boot of Italy. This light, dry, white wine features citrus, grapefruit, honey, and a touch of saline on the finish. This is a classic pairing for shellfish, cheeses, and as a refreshing aperitif.

RT: That is for sure unique. Did you find any others that caught your eye right away?

MQ: Another stand out is the 2019 Domaine Montvac de Vacqueyras. Vacqueyras is an appellation in Southern Rhone that produces beautiful red blends. This rich, and full-bodied blend consists of 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah with aromas and flavors of blackberries, strawberries, herbs, and cinnamon, with a mineral finish. A wonderful pairing for savory dishes, and grilled proteins.

RT: So Michaela, their list seems to have lots of range but was there anything that you would say is a “must-try”?

MQ: An absolute must-try is the 2021 Thomas Sancerre Rose from the Loire Valley. Many think of Sancerre as only producing stunning sauvignon blanc. While this is true, Sancerre also produces beautiful pinot noir. The Sancerre rose, therefore, is a product of their stellar pinot noir. This dry rose is truly a classic with notes of strawberries, cherries, a hint of watermelon, and a mineral finish. This is certainly a must try if you are a fan of Provence style roses. Another lovely aperitif, and perfect pairing for all cheeses.

RT: These are some great calls.

So, you know I’m getting thirsty and will need to order a bottle with my dinner, where would you guide us?

MQ: We have previously mentioned a different varietal from this producer; however, I always stop when I see Trimbach on the menu. This perfect dinner companion is the 2011 Trimbach Gewürztraminer ‘Cuvée des Seigneurs de Ribeaupierre’ from Alsace, France. The Trimbach family has been producing wine since 1626. Their Gewürztraminer is bright, dry, and fruit-driven featuring aromas and flavors of tropical fruit and pineapple, with notes of honey and ginger on the finish. This wine is a wonderful pairing for grilled vegetables, and any spicy dishes.

RT: Ooh, Terrific. Michaela, speaking of price, sometimes people have a budget in mind. any other great value wines you’d point us to?

MQ: Of course. One to consider would be the 2019 Lafon Mâcon-Chardonnay from Burgundy. This lightly oaked chardonnay balances citrus, apricot, and peach with notes of honey and a mineral finish. An excellent pairing for light fare, seafood, and light sauces, all for an excellent price.

RT: That sounds delicious. Did you notice any other value wines?

MQ: Certainly. The 2016 Copain Syrah “Tous Ensemble” from Sonoma is one to consider if you are looking for a dry, full-bodied red featuring plum, blueberries, blackberries, and cranberries, with notes of white pepper and herbs. This Syrah is a wonderful companion to grilled dishes, and herbed sauces.

RT: Now Michaela, what if I have a big client dinner or special occasion where I want to take it up a notch?

MQ: Here we have another list where it is up to you do decide how many notches you are looking to scale. If you are interested in taking your syrah palate up a notch, the wine to consider would be the 2011 Allemand Cornas “Chaillot” from the Northern Rhone. Cornas is a wine region in Northern Rhone that strictly produces syrah that feature ripe red cherries and blackberries, with smoke, earth, and savory herbs. An exceptional vintage to add to any celebration.

RT: Michaela Thank you so much for all your great suggestions and helping us navigate Menton’s wine list. I can’t wait to go try them myself.

To our audience, thank you all for joining us here on CorkRules.

If you would like us to review one of your favorite restaurants, please send us email to: Info@CorkRules.com or visit our web website where we have a request form available and we will do our best to get it in the queue as quickly as possible.

We are looking forward to being with you on another CorkRules episode soon. In the meantime, please check out our website for other episodes of your favorite restaurant wine lists.

And finally, drink what you love and please make sure you drink responsibly.

Thank you.

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