Take one deboned hog, stuff it with sausage and herbs, and roast it in a Chinese Box. Pair a glass of Clay Pigeon Winery’s newly released 2012 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. Stir it all up on the new patio at Cyril’s and you have one heck of a summer solstice celebration.
We helped christen the patio with a group of Pinot lovers. The space is casual and fun with a bocce ball court, custom picnic tables made with local cedar by Raven Builders, and planters designed by Bloke with seasonal landscaping by Portland’s eco-florist Emerald Petals. The wines were hand crafted by Micheal Claypool.
In addition to the new release, guests enjoyed a barrel sample of Pinot Gris and Syrah – both due to release in a few months. We really enjoyed the 2012 Chehalem Mountain Pinot Noir – current release but only 50 cases. Herbaceous and spicy, it is 100% Pommard from old vines planted in 1976.
The 2012 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, also delightful, is more fruit forward with a higher level of extraction. Only 25% of the production was bottled and Micheal is letting the rest age longer.
Clay Pigeon’s 2013 Rose of Pinot Noir and Syrah is a real treat. Michael explained the “Syrah adds structure and makes food pairing easier.” Hmm – like pairing with pork on the patio?
Tell us how you are celebrating the summer.
Sounds like quite a pairing!
Thanks David. I do think pork and Pinot noir go well together especially when herbs and richer flavors become part of the recipe. #winepw