I would like to thank all of our guests, and hard working staff, for supporting Maverick and our wine program in 2007. It was a year to remember. We are looking forward to offering you an even more spectacular wine list, pairings, and events in 2008. New wines to look out for on January’s list include: A 2004 Zierfandler produced by Stadlmann in the Thermen region around Vienna. This indigenous white Austrian varietal produces stunningly rich, but clean and crisp wines that are versatile with food, as well as quaffing on their own. Bill Arbios’ 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon from his estate vineyards in Alexander Valley. The west facing estate vineyard is planted on a forty-five degree slope which helps produce a world-class cool climate Cabernet. It is extremely pretty and seduces you in with cedar, violets and cherries on the nose and then wows you with great structure on the palate. “One of a Kind Wine Wednesday” returns with a bang in 2008. Check out the Winter/Spring 2008 calendar below for more information. Seminars are on Wednesdays from 5:30pm - 6:30pm, limited to ten guests, and cost $35 plus tax. Mike is also available to conduct customized semi-private wine seminars or events. Call Maverick or e-mail Mike – mike@sfmaverick.com - for more information. February 20th “Que Sera Sera: The Syrah Taste Test”
Syrah is presently one of the most widely planted grapes in the western United States. It is planted in a myriad of soils and growing areas with drastically different climates. Amongst wine writers and professionals, there is much debate as to where it grows best. We will continue and add to this discussion by tasting three very distinctive Syrahs: two from California and one Washington. These heavier wines will be paired with three hearty dishes from the kitchen. March 19th “Junk Food Wine Pairing Challenge”
Mike will tackle some challenging foods that are often eaten, but rarely, if ever, paired with wine. Think Cool Ranch Doritos, Carne Asada Taco’s, and a few more surprises. You decide if the pairings work. This is one not to miss! April 23rd “Riesling; The Sommeliers Desert Island Wine?”
Riesling gets top billing amongst most wine professionals. It fills their cellars and is the primary choice for their “desert island” wine. We will investigate why and make believers out of any naysayers who think that this grape only makes ‘sweet’ wines. Mike will pour one stunning Oregon and two classic German Rieslings, and pair them with a range of foods from the kitchen. May 21st “Let’s Be Franc—Cabernet Franc Comparative Tasting”
Historically, the Cabernet Franc grape has been resigned to a blending tool in Bordeaux and Napa Valley. When grown and vintified properly it attains a beautiful herbal quality that marries perfectly with its inherent pureness of fruit. These qualities help it match very well with typically hard to pair foods, like earthy or bitter vegetables. We will sample one 100% Cabernet Franc from California and one from the Loire Valley, as well as a Cabernet Franc/Merlot blend from California as a comparative tool. | 
