Last March, Carey and I happened upon a truly extraordinary restaurant. We were trying to go to Bombers, I recall, but parking was not to be found anywhere on Lark Street. I don’t handle looking for a parking spot very well; within ten minutes of circling my pulse was elevated and I was willing Carey to break the silence just so I could snap. I felt a phantom prickly heat rash inching up my neck. Then I saw McGuire’s—and a sign for valet parking. Change of plans, hunny!
[Read about our first visit to McGuire’s here.]
The filet mignon, which Carey and I split along with a duck confit salad, was even better than I remembered and came loaded with taters and veg, just the way I like it. We were just finishing up our meal and final few sips of a Russian River Pinot Noir that we ordered by the glass when we were approached by the lovely hostess Kim thanking us for our initial write-up. Dan, the man behind the bar, remembered us as well and specifically that I had commented and complimented their choice of pouring Turley Juvenile Zinfandel by the glass. He let us know that the Turley Zin was about to make its way back onto the by-the-glass list, now that we’re seeing some frost on the pumpkin. He also offered to buy us a glass! We gratefully accepted.
I believe it was the 2007, but I could be wrong; I forgot to look! Regardless, the Juvenile is seamless and satiny, offering a bold berry palate with a hint of green pepper, spice, and the slightest touch of vanilla. Avoids the jam jar and is far too sleek for any alcohol heat, despite its 15%+ abv content. Delicious and affordable from the best and most expensive Zinfandel producer EVER!
We can’t emphasize enough how perfect it is to sit at the bar, order a glass of wine and a dish, and soak up the good vibes while traffic flows by on Lark Street. One visit and you feel like a local.
A total treat. We can’t wait to go back.
Enjoy!
-Rob.
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