Wednesday, May 14, 2025 — 7:00 PM
Ticket: $289 + tax and tips (Includes 7-course dinner, wine pairings, and guided tasting experience)
Join us for an extraordinary evening celebrating the excellence of winemaking and haute cuisine as Lucciola Wine Club proudly hosts a special dinner featuring two legendary estates: Château Smith Haut Lafitte (Bordeaux) and Cathiard Vineyard (Napa Valley).
A 7-Course Tasting Menu by Chef Michele Casadei Massari
Chef Michele Casadei Massari will present a refined 7-course tasting menu specially designed to harmonize with an exclusive wine pairing experience from both estates.
MENU
Amuse-Bouche
Chilled Kusshi Oyster
Lemon verbena granita, cucumber pearls
Pairing: Petit Haut Lafitte Blanc 2022
Crisp acidity and herbal nuances complement the oyster’s briny freshness and citrusy granita.
First Course
Crudo of Hamachi
Yuzu kosho, white peach, fennel pollen
Pairing: Smith Haut Lafitte Blanc 2021
The aromatic depth and creamy texture enhance the vibrant citrus and umami complexity.
Second Course
Handmade Agnolotti
Ricotta, toasted pine nuts, spring peas, mint butter
Pairing: Petit Haut Lafitte Rouge 2018
Silky tannins and bright red fruit balance the sweetness of peas and the richness of the filling.
Ghost Dish – A surprise from the Chef
Third Course
Grilled Duck Breast
Cherry gastrique, crispy sunchokes, thyme jus
Pairing: Smith Haut Lafitte Rouge 2010
Refined tannins and earthy tones mirror the dish’s depth and natural sweetness.
Fourth Course
Roasted Venison Loin
Cocoa nib crust, wild mushrooms, blackberry demi-glace
Pairing: Hora 2020
The robust structure and plush mouthfeel echo the bold flavors and dark fruit richness.
Fifth Course
Dry-Aged Ribeye
Smoked leek purée, charred shallots, Bordelaise
Pairing: Founding Brothers 2020
Robust yet elegant, this wine’s tannic backbone meets the protein’s intensity with finesse.
Final Course
Chocolate-Hazelnut Mousse
Olive oil powder, espresso tuile, fleur de sel
Pairing: Cathiard Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
Dark chocolate and spice notes harmonize with the wine’s layered complexity and long finish.
Special Guest & Tasting Host
Louise Comte
Brand Ambassador — Château Smith Haut Lafitte & Cathiard Vineyard
Louise Comte will lead the guided tasting, sharing insights into the history, vision, and biodynamic philosophy of the Cathiard family and their renowned properties in both France and California.
About the Estates
Château Smith Haut Lafitte
A Grand Cru Classé estate in Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, with roots dating back to 1365, Smith Haut Lafitte is a global reference for biodynamic winemaking and eco-precision. King Charles III personally visited the estate in recognition of its sustainable excellence.
Cathiard Vineyard – Napa Valley
Florence and Daniel Cathiard acquired this Rutherford estate in 2020. It brings Bordeaux heritage to the Napa Valley, producing structured, expressive wines that reflect the family's signature philosophy.
Recent Accolades
Château Smith Haut Lafitte
2022 Rouge: 96 pts, Wine-Searcher
2020 Rouge: 3 Stars & Coup de Cœur, Guide Hachette des Vins
2013 Blanc: 96 pts, Wine Spectator – #9 in Top 100 Wines of 2016
2009 Rouge: 100 pts, Robert Parker
Cathiard Vineyard
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon: 99 pts, James Suckling & The Wine Independent – Blackcurrant, plum, cherry, structured from 1,200 ft elevation
2020 Cabernet Sauvignon: 97 pts, James Suckling
2020 “Founding Brothers”: 95 pts, Jane Anson
2020 “Hora”: 91 pts, Jane Anson