At the Wine Garden Inn, we take great pride in crafting seasonal dishes that spotlight the vibrant flavors of our estate-grown produce and the nuanced character of our award-winning wines. Our culinary team, led by Executive Chef Johnny Schmitt, is committed to delivering an unparalleled hospitality experience, where each plate showcases the bounty of the Anderson Valley and the artistry of our kitchen.
Seasonal Produce Highlights
Our culinary philosophy is rooted in a deep respect for the land and a steadfast commitment to sourcing locally. We work closely with nearby farmers and producers to secure the freshest, most flavorful ingredients, tailoring our menus to the rhythms of the seasons. From the first spring asparagus spears to the final autumn squash harvest, we celebrate the unique gifts that each season brings.
Take our heirloom tomatoes, for example – plucked straight from the vine at the peak of ripeness, they burst with concentrated sweetness and vibrant acidity. We love to feature them in a simple Caprese salad, where their luscious flesh is complemented by the creamy richness of local mozzarella and the herbaceous notes of our garden-fresh basil. Or try our signature Gazpacho, a chilled soup that allows the tomatoes to shine alongside cool cucumber, tangy sherry vinegar, and a touch of spicy Tabasco.
As the weather cools, we turn to the hearty brassicas that thrive in Anderson Valley’s coastal climate. Our Brussels sprouts, roasted to a caramelized perfection and finished with a drizzle of aged balsamic, make for a delightful side dish. And when the first winter squash appear, we transform them into silky Butternut Squash Bisque, accented with fragrant cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg.
Recipes from Wine Garden Inn’s Kitchen
Of course, no visit to the Wine Garden Inn is complete without sampling our renowned breakfast offerings. Our signature Frittata showcases the freshest seasonal vegetables, nestled in a fluffy egg base and topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan. For a sweeter start to the day, try our Ricotta Pancakes – light and airy, with a touch of vanilla and a generous pour of pure maple syrup.
When it comes to main courses, we take great pride in our locally-sourced proteins. Our Grilled Salmon, for instance, is sourced from the pristine waters of the Mendocino coast, paired with a vibrant salsa verde and roasted fingerling potatoes. For the meat-lovers, our Braised Short Ribs are simmered to tender perfection in a rich Cabernet Sauvignon reduction, accompanied by creamy polenta and roasted garlic.
And no meal is truly complete without a satisfying dessert. We invite you to indulge in our Apple Crisp, featuring a medley of heirloom apples from the legendary Gowan Orchard, crowned with a buttery oat topping and a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Or for a lighter finish, try our Lavender Crème Brûlée, where the floral notes of our garden-grown lavender perfectly complement the silky custard.
Culinary Techniques and Preparation
At the heart of our culinary approach is a deep reverence for traditional techniques, combined with a spirit of innovation. Our chefs meticulously prepare each dish, paying close attention to the nuances of flavor and texture. Whether sautéing local mushrooms in garlic-infused olive oil or roasting beets to bring out their inherent sweetness, they strive to coax the very best from each ingredient.
The wine-food pairing is another area where our team truly shines. They work closely with our vintners to harmonize the flavors of our estate wines with the dishes on our menu. Take our Braised Lamb Shanks, for instance – the rich, gamey notes of the meat are perfectly complemented by the robust tannins and dark fruit character of our Malbec. Or consider our Seared Scallops, where the delicate shellfish is elevated by the bright acidity and citrus notes of our Sauvignon Blanc.
Sustainable Culinary Practices
At the Wine Garden Inn, we believe that sustainable practices are not just a trend, but a fundamental responsibility. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to integrate eco-friendly initiatives throughout every aspect of our operations, including the culinary realm.
Our chefs work closely with local biodynamic and organic farmers to source the freshest, most nutrient-dense produce available. We also maintain our own expansive kitchen garden, where we cultivate a diverse array of herbs, vegetables, and edible flowers to use in our dishes. This not only ensures the highest quality, but also drastically reduces our carbon footprint by minimizing food miles.
In the kitchen, we are committed to reducing food waste through thoughtful preparation and innovative techniques. Our chefs utilize every part of the plant, from root to leaf, transforming vegetable trimmings into flavorful broths and sauces. Any remaining organic matter is then composted, nourishing the soil for the next season’s bounty.
Hospitality and Dining Experience
At the Wine Garden Inn, we believe that exceptional food and wine are only one piece of the puzzle. We strive to create a truly immersive hospitality experience, where every element of the dining journey is carefully curated to delight and inspire our guests.
Our idyllic setting, nestled amidst the rolling hills and verdant vineyards of the Anderson Valley, sets the tone for a truly memorable visit. Guests can enjoy their meals al fresco, surrounded by fragrant lavender and rosemary bushes, while the soothing sounds of a nearby creek provide a serene backdrop.
Inside, our dining room features rustic-chic decor and intimate seating, allowing guests to savor their culinary experience in a cozy, yet sophisticated atmosphere. On select evenings, we invite local musicians to serenade diners with the soulful sounds of folk, blues, and jazz – creating a truly immersive sensory experience.
But the true heart of our hospitality lies in the personalized attention we provide to each and every guest. Our attentive service staff is dedicated to anticipating your needs, from dietary accommodations to wine recommendations. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a peaceful respite, we are committed to ensuring that your time with us is nothing short of extraordinary.
So join us at the Wine Garden Inn, where the bounty of the Anderson Valley and the artistry of our culinary team come together to cultivate a truly magical dining experience. We look forward to welcoming you.