Vino had another Shinsato Farms themed special last night highlighting the plight of Shinsato Farms. Apparently local restaurants love their locally raised and on-site slaughtered swine. However one of their most popular cuts is the pork belly apparently leaving them with many belly-less carcasses. So Vino is trying to help them out by using the other cuts - namely the shoulder and butt to create specials and last night was an ongoing theme utilizing these "mundane" cuts. Of course, the Mrs started with her usual Lychee Gin Fizz.
While K had the Hawaii Star Fruit Martini with ginger liqueur, Grand Marnier and citrus vodka.
While I had my 2 ounce sampler set.
The Mrs wanted to start with the Brussel Sprouts with konbu aioli and pistacchio nuts - no argument from me as I love these charred crucifers!
The Shinsato Farms pork specials were the Pan Seared Shinsato Farms Pork Shoulder with balsamic glaze, Kahuku corn and roasted Red Bliss potatoes. Some slices a little fattier than others but the balsamic glaze cut through the richness.
Along with Fresh Linguini with Shinsato Farms spicy pork sausage, baby kale and peppercorn demi sauce. A little bit of heat on the back end but very good.
I uncorked a 2003 Grange des Peres Blanc which evolved throughout the evening with beeswax, candied citron and clementine, honey, white flowers then charred pineapple with a touch of stone fruit. Magnificent wine though sadly, it's my last bottle of 2003.
We also sampled the Fresh Oregon Golden Chaterelles with gnocchi, pancetta and veal jus.
Along with a 2006 Louis Latour Aloxe-Corton "Les Chaillots" 1er Cru - whoa nelly! Loads of Burgundian funk that eventually blew off after 30 minutes or so.
The girls ended the evening with the Chocolate Pistacchio Semi-Freddo with espresso anglaise.
And the Island Banana Mousse Cake.
While I ended the evening with a Negroni.
Another great meal at Vino who admirably is doing their part to keep the Shinsato Farms sustainable. All you restaurants out there, order the complete pork package, not just pork bellies...
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