CorkRules - Episodes | Stamford Prime

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About this Episode

Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Stamford Prime, an American kitchen and bar. If steak, seafood, and sushi are what you want, this is the place to go to enjoy cocktails, wine, and scenic water views. Michaela reviews the wines that pair well with sushi, seafood, and steak and will take your meal to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Wines reviewed include:

2017 Castellare Chianti Classico, Sangiovese
2018 Zucardi Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina
2019 Domaine de la Pepiere Muscadet

Transcript: Stamford Prime

Stamford Prime:

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 Stamford Prime in Stamford, CT. Featuring an exquisite menu of American fare, seafood, and sushi, Stamford Prime is your destination for any special occasion, brunch, or to enjoy their 2 course Power Lunch, with an exceptional wine list to match.

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

MQ: This is the type of restaurant where I check out their website ahead of time to stalk their wine list! There are many classics, and of course, our favorite, hidden gems, that we have to share with you today.

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

MQ: Let’s begin with a crisp, refreshing glass of 2020 Gabriela, Pinot Grigio, from the Veneto. Grigio means “grey”, and the grape skins have a grey hue. This white wine features bright acidity, melon, tangerine, apple, and peach, with a lingering finish. A wonderful way to begin your dining experience as an aperitif, or to pair with the incredible sushi menu.

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

MQ: Another favorite stand out is the 2018 Zucardi Malbec, from Mendoza, Argentina. This Malbec is well balanced with smooth, round tannins and features aromas and flavors of cassis, fig, leather, and tobacco. Full-bodied to pair with rich proteins, but not over power.

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

MQ: A must-try is the 2018 Orin Swift Blank Stare Sauvignon Blanc from the Russian River, CA. I could go on for multiple episodes about Orin Swift wines, starting with the pop/modern art labels. This sauvignon blanc, however, is a must-try due to its bright acidity, with bold aromas of citrus, grapefruit, and lavender. 10% of this Sauvignon Blanc is fermented in French oak which results in a light, creamy finish. Certainly, a must try to pair with seafood and herbed dishes.

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: Absolutely. Another must-try is the 2017 Castellare Chianti Classico, Sangiovese, from Tuscany. A stellar Sangiovese that is rich, medium-bodied, and dry, that features ripe cherries, raspberries, and earth, with a mineral finish. Sangiovese is a perfect companion for any proteins on the menu or rich, herbed sauces.

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! Since Stamford Prime features tremendous seafood and sushi options, we have to mention the 2019 Domaine de la Pepiere Muscadet, from the Loire valley. Muscadet is located within the Loire valley showcasing the bright acidity and refreshing nature of the Melon de Bourgogne grape. Featuring citrus, lime zest, and green apple with a mineral finish. Now bring on the oysters!

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

MQ: Of the many, incredible selections, one to consider would be the 2018 Antinori, Tignanello Cabernet Blend from Tuscany. The Antinori family has truly set the bar for producing spectacular, consistently rated wines. They have been doing so since 1385! This sangiovese is truly a stand-out that features plumb, fig, ripe blackberries, and earth, with notes of cinnamon and clove on the finish. A beautiful wine for celebrations and special occasions.

RT: Michaela, thank you so much for all your great suggestions and helping us navigate Stamford Prime’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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