A best kept secret in Winter Park and one of area couple's most coveted special occasion spots, Rocco’s Italian Grille has been quietly and consistently wowing guests for over a decade. At the helm sits Rocco Potami, an old-school restauranteur with an unwavering dedication to traditional Italian fare and the wines that make its flavors shine.
This month, Rocco invites guests to start the new year with an evening of gustatory delights during his Celebration of Truffles Wine Pairing Dinner on Friday January 20.
Beginning at 6:30pm, a limited number of attendees will be taken on an epicurean journey of Italy via five sumptuous courses, each paired with a carefully-chosen selection from the renowned house of Banfi.
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Aperitivo
Banfi Prosecco, dry yet fruity sparkling wine to tease the palate
Antipasto
Black truffle burrata with bresaola (thinly sliced dried aged beef) and watercress
Banfi La Pettegola, Vermentino, Toscana IGT
91 points James Suckling – Pale yellow with fruity and intense aromas that invoke a rich acidity that gives freshness and liveliness. The finish is very persistent and pleasantly fruity.
Course One
Butternut squash ravioli in a butter sage sauce, served with shaved white truffles
Banfi Principessa Gavia, Gavi DOCG
100% cortese – Pale straw in color with intense, fruit forward, with typical tropical hints on the nose. Well balanced with gentle acidity and delicate, dry finish.
Course Two
Sea bass with porcini mushrooms in a Vermentino white wine sauce accompanied by zucchini and potatoes.
Aska, Bolgheri DOC
92 points James Suckling. – A Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc blend with a deep red color. Aromas of currant, blueberry, plum jam intermingled with hints of tobacco and licorice. Strong structure with softness and maturity due to the sweet and elegant tannins.
Course Three
Braised short ribs in Excelsus (Merlot & Cabernet Sauvignon) wine sauce served with polenta.
Banfi Excelsus, Toscana IGT
92 points James Suckling – This supertuscan blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon is very intense and deep. The bouquet is complex and rich with a muscular and vigorous structure thanks to the powerful tannins.
Dolce
Profiteroles (pastries filled with white chocolate cream, served with a milk/dark chocolate sauce)
Banfi Rosa Regale, Acqui DOCG
100% Brachetto – A unique and festive sparkling red wine, seductive aperitif and elegant dessert wine. Festive cranberry color with aromatic hints of raspberries, strawberries and rose petals. Fresh raspberries, with crisp acidity, entices the palate with an initial softness, graduating to a clean and dry finish.
RESERVATIONS
Events such as these are few and far between at Rocco's and seats will fill up fast. This limited-seating event is $95 per person (plus tax and gratuity).
Reserve by calling 407-644-7770
