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Big Reds with the Grand River Grocery and Shnitz Delicatessen

21 January 2010 ~ Ada ~ Schnitz Delicatessen ~ - Photography by: Tim Motley

In our search to build upon some new found appreciation for wines as artistic expressions as much as fermented fruit; we stumbled upon a monthly tasting event. On this night we went exploring outside downtown Grand Rapids, right into the heart of Ada. Each month, Ada’s Grand River Grocery partners with Schnitz Ada Grill to host a themed evening of adult beverages and gourmet food selections.

The theme for the month was "BIG Reds." Participants came from all over Grand Rapids to enjoy the samplings from Henry A. Fox Sales wine collection. Focus was, of course, on the Biggest of Reds; which Kimberly State, from Fox Sales, introduced us to several very drinkable selections; she then surprised us with a dessert white, DiLenardo's "Pass the Cookies". Two very notable Reds came from wineries you might consider newcomers; the Frick Merlot and the Chateau Ste. Michelle "Canoe Ridge" Cabernet. Frick winery opened in Sonoma County in 1976 from proceeds the owners received by selling their 1957 Chevrolet; they have been hand creating rare California wines ever since. Up the coast, located in Washington State, Ste. Michelle Vintners planted their first grapes in 1972 and renamed themselves Chateau Ste. Michelle in 1976; they now own more than 3,500 prime vineyard acres in the Columbia Valley.

Throughout the evening, the staff from Ada Grill, served us gourmet pairings to complement the wines' unique flavorings – starting with Meatballs and culminating in an Orange Chocolate Mousse paired with that surprise "Pass the Cookies" dessert wine. State quoted the wine manufacturer’s label,"... pass the cookies; in my next life, I'll be thin." In addition to those noted above, we explored the flavors of Cinzano Brachetto, Ricardo Santos Malbec, and Ornellaia Le Volte. Dusty, Earthy, Long Finish, Dark, Cherry, Oaky... however one chose to describe the wines of the evening, the event was exceptional.

The next taste event will explore the Winter Beer Fest... we will definitely be along to check out that luxury bus excursion on the Magical Mystery Brew Tour.

For more information on Grand River Grocery, visit their website or become a fan on facebook.

Ted Bentley, Sarah Andro and Phyllis Andro

Kimberley State, Henry Fox Sales

Sarah Massie

Deb Kearns, Elizabeth Kozak and Sarah Massie

Mary Richardson and Jim Kearns

Chris Scripps (aka Chef Bubba) right

Sarah Andro	Deb LaFave

Feb 13 • Amway Grand Plaza

Feb 13 • JW Marriott