I swear Mendoza’s wine events are getting cooler. Not only was Cook & Jazz spot on with the jazz (and I mean spot on!) but there was groovy wine and food to accompany.
Throughout the year the Hyatt in Mendoza puts on special Masters Food & Wine events which consist of an evening in the garden where creative chefs each have an outpost to present one choice dish of the night and Mendoza’s top wineries also have their own outpost to serve a selection of their wines throughout the night. At first, these Masters events were just about the food and wine with some polite music in the background.
Today, however, the cultural element is a fundamental part in this trinity of entertainment. In the past year alone, the Hyatt’s Masters Food and Wine events have included nights of rock and rock, tango and even a 1920s theme with cocktails. Last Thursday evening, it was time to put jazz in the spotlight – and it was a treat.
The night started with smooth beats over the decks, ideal for everyone having their first or second glass of wine and letting the conversation flow. Meanwhile many variations on cajun cuisine were being served by the Master chefs located around the garden. By 11pm the wine drinking was reaching a crescendo and so was the jazz… A group from Buenos Aires, featuring renowned trumpet player Gillespi, were a stroke of genius. Modern, upbeat and interesting, even a jazz newbie would be enthralled. For me, the highlight was the drum solo which started a marathon multi-minute improv and a great excuse for a couple more wines.
After four hours of straight jazz beats, mean eats and wine treats, I feel like one cool cat in Mendoza. That’s a first.
Wine choices of the night from Cook & Jazz Masters of Food & Wine
El Relator, El Gran Premio 2014
My wine of the night. Loved this blend coming from 92 year old Tempranillo vines and 17 year old Malbec vines in La Consulta. Interesting notes of spice, developed fruit and savoury notes with a fresh finish. So enjoyable to drink, the sort of wine I’d love to uncork at home with jazz playing.
Jazz pairing: Herbie Hancock, Chameleon
Don Gillespi, Bodega Monteviejo
The musician’s winemaker of choice, Marcelo Pelleriti, made this red blend with the renowned trumpet player Gillespi (who was playing the show). A full, fruit-driven and spicy red, perfect to warm your soul while listening to Gillespi’s band play.
Jazz pairing: It would be easy to say one of Gillespi’s own songs, but let’s stick with the classics and go for his namesake – Dizzy Gillespie, Salt Peanuts.
Corazon del Sol: Padma Garnacha Rose 2017
The closest Argentina has to a true Provence-style rose, this is 100% Grenache. Fruity, fresh and all too easy to drink in the summer in the garden.
Jazz pairing: Dave Brubeck, Take Five
Luigi Bosca del Alma 2017
A new white blend to add to the rising tide of white blends emerging in Argentina. This is a full-bodied blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Gris and Viognier. Stone fruit, floral and complex.
Jazz pairing: Miles Davis, So What.
Bodega Norton, Lote Negro
This is the first wine that has winemaker David Bonomi’s stamp on it and it shows vibrant dark bramble fruit with floral and spice notes. This blend of Malbec and Cabernet Franc has a vibrancy in the palate with spicy tannins.
Jazz Pairing: Billie Holiday, Strange Fruit
Piattelli Malbec-Tannat Reserve 2017
My top value pick of the night – a Malbec and Tannat blend from Piattelli’s high altitude vineyards of Salta for under $10 (locally). Dark fruit with lots of spice and great length. This is a lot of wine for the money.
Jazz pairing: Weather Report, Birdland.
Lurton‘s Bodega Piedra Negra Chacayes 2017
This wine (a blend of Malbec and Cot) is all about its texture. Long with peppery tannins and a bright, fresh acidity on the finish. On the nose it engages you with berry fruit and wild herb notes. Lots of energy in this wine!
Jazz pairing: John Coltrane, Psalm
