Chef Aaron Meneghelli
Brings His Best
As Father’s Day approaches, we connected with J dad and Executive Chef Aaron Meneghelli on our award-wining wines and how being a dad has impacted his work…
Chef Meneghelli’s masterful command of combining flavors, textures and techniques is just part of the equation when it comes to a successful menu. “Without the right wine pairing, a dish cannot hit the high note that it’s going for.”
His current favorites highlight his love for the Russian River Valley and coincide with the new James Suckling scores that were released in April 2022:
J Vineyards Chardonnay Sonoma County Russian River Valley Bow Tie Vineyard 2020
Score: 94 Points
Review: Aromas of white tea, blood orange and fresh herbs. Medium- to full-bodied. There is a pleasant spice character here. Nutmeg and cinnamon. Charming. Baked citrus, too. Drink now.
J Vineyards Pinot Noir Sonoma County Sonoma Coast Annapolis Ridge Vineyard
Score: 96 Points
Review: Orange peel, flowers and sweet berries with wet-earth and cedar undertones. Medium- to full-bodied with a linear focus that leads you way down the palate, with a bright and energetic finish. Firm and fine tannins at the end. This is a serious pinot. Drink after 2024.
J Vineyards Pinot Noir Sonoma County Russian River Valley Eastside Knoll Vineyard 2019
Score: 94 Points
Review: Sweet berries, ripe strawberries and orange peel on both the nose and palate. Full and tight with bright acidity and a long, flavorful finish. It’s a bigger style of pinot yet remains lively and beautiful. Drinkable now, but a year or two will open it up.
Notes on Fatherhood
“Being a dad to an amazing girl, who just blows my mind every day, has absolutely changed my outlook on this business. It’s important for me as a dad to do what I can to help elevate the voices of women…I want to show my daughter that she deserves to be valued like that no matter where she goes.”
