Four Star Fourth Celebration at 32 East in Delray Beach!

Now I may not be very good at math, but I do know that Summer + BBQ + Zinfandel = delicious! This Fourth of July, I had the chance to experience this edible equation first hand at a "Family Style Zinfandel & BBQ" dinner in honor of this most American of holidays. Acclaimed Chef Nick Morfogen of 32 East in Delray Beach played against type to create a down-home, Midwest-inspired meal for guests who brought bottles of Zinfandel to pair with the delicious offerings.

The evening began with a "Global Tasting of Rosé Wines" including a variety of delicious rosés from around the world paired with passed hors d'oeuvres including Lemony Shrimp Fritters with Chipotle Mayo and House Smoked Fish Dip with Pickled Jalapenos. The dinner menu included a salad of Summer Lettuces with Bing Cherries & Candied Walnuts in Zinfandel Vinaigrette followed by Smoked Pork Butt, Spicy Baby Back Ribs & Grilled BBQ Chicken with Baked Beans, Yukon Gold Potato Salad and a delicious, vinegar-based slaw. Guests arrived toting bottles bearing names like Turley, Biale and Seghesio. As a fan of Zinfandel, it was nice to see this grape getting some respect!

In addition to the rosés, our table enjoyed a bottle of 2005 Peter Franus Napa Valley Zinfandel and a 2006 Turley Hayne Vineyard Napa Valley Zinfandel with dinner and the 2006 Four Vines Paso Robles Zinfandel Port paired with a dessert of "Red, White & Blue" Brownie Sundae with Raspberry Coulis, Blueberries and Vanilla Ice Cream. The Peter Franus Zin was the standout wine of the evening, leaving everyone wanting more once the bottle was gone!

The flavors of the Zins complemented Chef Morfogen’s menu beautifully, and at $50 per person, this event turned out to be a great value and something a little different from Delray Beach's premier dining establishment. Cheers to 32 East for a Four Star Fourth of July Celebration, I'm already looking forward to next year.