On Saturday, February 12, Napa branch members gathered for our annual Valentine Gala in the Cantinetta Tra Vigne in St. Helena.  The Cantinetta is an ivy covered historic stone building separate from the main restaurant surrounded by a small vineyard and courtyard.  It was a Sherry distillery in the 1800’s that has been beautifully renovated to be a private dining space.

There were plenty of hugs and kisses to go around and tables were beautifully decorated thanks to member Janie Cafferata who was ably assisted by members Fran Grasso and E J Pean.  Heart shaped boxes of chocolates were presented to each of the beautifully dressed ladies in attendance.

The evening began with a reception featuring Mumm DVX Sparkling wine served with Seared Beef Filet in Crispy Parmesan Cups and Pancetta wrapped Gulf Prawn Skewers with Basil Vinaigrette.  During the reception, member Marc Loupe and guest Sue Pemberton were surprise winners of  Magnums of Souverain Winery Winemakers Reserve Cabernet.

A superb dinner prepared by Executive Chef Chaz Cognetti followed starting with Garden Greens with Pears, Candied Walnuts, Point Reyes Blue Cheese and Red Wine Vinaigrette paired with 2005 Simi Carneros Chardonnay; followed by Pappardelle with braised Rabbit Ragu, Wild Mushrooms and fresh Sage paired with 2005 Chateau St. Jean Durell Vineyard Pinot Noir.   Our entree was a choice of grilled Wild Salmon with Italian Black Rice, Fennel and Tarragon Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette or Braised Beef Short Ribs with soft Polenta and natural jus paired with 2002 St. Francis Kings Ridge Cabernet.  And finally for dessert, Panettone Bread Pudding with Frangelico Ice Cream paired with 2007 Souverain Port.

This was truly a great evening of wine, food and friends and a fantastic way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your one and only sweetheart.