A few weeks ago I was invited to the annual Jamboree HOMES, Inc. Winemaker Dinner and Magnums for Mental Health Wine Auction at Kimera Restaurant in Irvine, Ca. The event benefited Jamboree one of the largest developers of low income housing, including housing for those with mental illness. The proceeds from the event will fund a variety of programs designed to promote healthy living for residents, including such activities as an annual four-day mountain respite camp experience for residents, equine therapy and life skill training such as nutritious cooking classes. It also will help to fund Jamboree’s first community garden for residents at one of its properties that opens next month. Hahn SLH Estate Winery partnered once again with Jamboree Homes to create the event, with Hahn Estate Chef Brian Overhauser working with Chef Paul Gstrein of Kimera so that the Hahn wines would pair perfectly with the restaurant’s cuisine.
The five-course menu featured:
• Roast beet and goat cheese bruschetta, paired with Hahn Winery 2009 Pinot Gris
• Bacon-wrapped Jumbo Prawn with Sweet Corn and scallion risotto with a Chardonnay emulsion, paired with 2009 Hahn SLH Estate Chardonnay
• Wild mushroom crusted Atlantic salmon with Shitake mushroom caramelized onion and red wine reduction over wilted spinach, paired with Hahn Winery 2010 Pinot Noir
• Braised prime beef short-rib accompanied with potato parsnip puree, charred brussels in a natural reduction sauce, paired with Hahn Winery 2010 GSM Red Blend (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre)
• Flourless chocolate torte topped with fresh berries, vanilla sauce and whipped cream, paired with 2009 Smith & Hook Cabernet
Each of the wines paired beautifully with each of the courses – my favorite of course was the bacon wrapped Jumbo Prawn with Sweet Corn an scallion risotto with a Chardonnay emulsion (yes, another example of my bacon obesession!!) Despite it’s title it was not overly rich and the crispness of the Hahn SLH Chardonnay was a wonderful counterpoint to the rich, sweet and smoky dish.
Throughout the evening, people shared not only their enthusiasm for the food and wine, but also for the mission – to not only provide affordable and attractive housing for those with mental health issues, but to combine that with an array of services to support the various needs of the residents and allow them to live independent lives – no small undertaking and one that has proved to be amazingly successful.
Great food and wine combined with committed and passionate people in lovely location is truly a recipe for wonderful evening.
Thank you Homes, Inc. for including me in this special event!
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