Lambtastic!

Annie Gunn's was the location of my  lamb life-changing culinary experience last week.  Chef Lou Rook rocked the dish pictured left, I don't think I will ever forget how incredible this meal was and how perfectly it paired with Missouri Norton.

As the Missouri Wine Girl I've enjoyed several wine dinners pairing Norton with Lamb.  It's a great combination, and when you take the time to focus the flavors, spices and such, it's magical.  Chef Lou has mastered this pairing.

This particular meal was a private event, but I later learned from Glenn Bardgett, Annie's Wine Director, that the lamb chops are on their regular yet seasonal menu.  To quote my Menu card, the dish is described as "Grilled Marcho Farms Lamb Loin Chop and House Made Lamb Sausage with Ozark Forest Mushroom Rosemary Chutney, Whipped Yukon Gold Potatoes and Farmer Vegetables."  In a phrase- "melt in your mouth bliss!"

While the lamb sausage lay tucked under the chop, I think it was my favorite part of the dish, the spice was right on, I have no idea what it was, I think I detected notes of sage, I'm sure it's a Chef Lou secret- he should bottle and share! 

And to drink you ask?  Misssouri Norton of course!  We had small pours of the Stone Hill 2007 Norton, Stone Hill 2007 Cross J Norton and St. James Winery 2007 Norton.  Augusta 2008 Chambourcin was also served, and while I adore this wine for this particular dish my taste preferred Norton!  It was great to enjoy different Norton's with this pairing, I found I preferred one of them with the chop and one with the sausage. 

When Chef Lou came out to greet the group, I hugged him and thanked him for this lambtastic dish.  I'm not always this excited about a pairing, but it re-energized my locavore passion.  So often local food skips over local wine, but more effort should be made to create an ultimate culinary experience such as this.  The proof is in the taste!  Get to Annie Gunn's while it's still on the menu and taste for yourself! 

This experience also has me more interested in lamb prep and cooking techniques at home.  I guess that's what the local movement is all about appreciating what's around you.  Cheers to Lamb and Norton!