Mountain Views News, Combined Edition Saturday, April 1, 2023

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Mountain View News Saturday, April 1, 2023

Peter Dills Knows 


The pride of Sierra Madre, Ms. Lisa of Lucky Baldwins Pub got to 
me just in time, asking for suggestions for wine to pair with her annual 
Easter baked ham. Lisa tells me that she is a traditionalist and 
that family has been coming to her home for almost twenty years. 
While everyone one loves her cooking skills, she needed suggestions 
for wine, and possibly beer for her husband David.

A baked ham that has been glazed with brown sugar is a tricky 
matter, but I have a couple of suggestions. First, stay clear of bold 
cabernets; the sugars will collide and make the cab too citric. I 
suggest one of my all-time favorite blends, Prisoner. Not only will 
this Napa gem go great with the ham, it also will go well with your 
sides of yams, rice pudding, and string beans. Sounds like a great 
menu. What time is the party? This wine has a deep ruby red color 
and aromas of black cherry and plum. The first taste is powerful, 
and if you have been following my columns, you know I don’t swirl 
-- I go for a complete taste. There’s no need to let this blend sit; it ‘s 
ready to enjoy with your Easter brunch right after opening. This is 
an absolute favorite of mine, and one of the best blends that I have 
tasted at any price. It’s available at VONS and wine departments; 
sale priced around $49.

For less money and still a phenomenal value is the San Simeon Petite Sirah. As with the Prisoner, 
the Petite Sirah is an ideal partner for your entrée. This Paso Robles award winner is a 90+ rated 
wine and is perfect for your guests who want something full bodies. Guests who might be the 
“occasional” social drinker will think you spent double the amount. 

Last but not least, La Fin Du Monde ”End of the world” is a Belgium style beer that I first encountered 
at Vons in Pasadena. It is now one of my favorites.

Email Peter at thechefknows@yahoo.com and follow me on Twitter @KINGOFCUISINE


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