As the sommelier for per se, in New York City, Anani Lawson is responsible for selecting wines for some of the world’s most discriminating palates. He also runs the wine education program for the restaurant’s world class staff. And before per se, Anani worked at The French Laundry for nine years!
For someone with such a prestigious position (and service record), Anani is one of the nicest, most genuine people we know. His passion for wine and food is apparent in everything he does and his joie de vivre is infectious! His warm, service-driven, straight-forward approach gives guests a feeling of accesibility, which is why we asked him to create some convivial pairings for our Easter menu. These are his suggestions…
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Appetizers
Truffle Butter Gougères
Pierre Gimonnet, Cuis, Premier Cru MV
Anani says: “Ethereal, floral in style, notes of acacia and a little nut, this certainly has plenty of character. The palate is very feminine, starting off quite soft and pillowy, but then revealing a sharp mousse in the background and a good acid backbone. This wine is rounded and very harmonious.”
Schramsberg, “Blanc de Blancs,” Napa Valley 2007
Anani says: “It displays tart green apples, pineapple and lemongrass, with a honeyed nutty edge. Tropical and tangy on the palate, with layers of lemon cream, pineapple and buttery toast, it finishes with a hint of sweetness but plenty of acidity.”
Deviled Quail Eggs Three Ways:
Bacon & Thyme, Porcini & Parmesan, Caviar & Crème Fraiche
Schloss Gobelsburg, Grüner Veltliner, “Steinsetz,” Kamptal 2010
Anani says: “Is the classical full-bodied Grüner Veltliner with mineral flavours and the typical spicy element as well as natural acidity.”
Domaine Weinbach, Riesling, “Cuvée Ste. Catherine-Linedit,” Schlossberg, Grand Cru 2008
Anani says: “This Riesling offers powdered sugar on the nose, even some cinnamon toast. Very spicy vanilla bean and white chocolate. Powerful fruit, very candied; sweet yet racy acids. Fantastic balance. Sweet and sour lemon confit on the finish.”
Jermann, Pinot Grigio, Friuli-Venezia-Giulia 2009
Anani says: “An intense straw yellow colour with a faint tinge of old rose. Beautifully pure, elegant, floral Pinot Grigio. The bouquet is full and fruity. A touch of almonds and vanilla, a hint of fruit and spice on the palate, a smooth and dry full-bodied white which is particularly harmonious and accessible.”
Asparagus Tartlets with Jambon de Bayonne
Merry Edwards, Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley 2010
Anani says: “The aroma is floral and mouth¬watering, layered with ripe melon, peach and subtle mineral highlights. In the mouth, it is rich and seamlessly well balanced, kicking in a hint of grapefruit, citrus and pear on the lingering finish.”
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The Main Event
Menu #1: Lamb Loin with Leeks and Truffle Honey Vinaigrette, Duck Fat Roasted New Potatoes, Roasted Hen-of-the-Woods Mushrooms, Bibb Salad with Peas & Radish, Lemon Vinaigrette
Kaizen, Grenache, Sonoma County 2009
Anani says: “The aromatics are layered with blackberry, roasted meat, bittersweet chocolate, gunflint, and lavender. The sweet blackberry entry opens to more dark chocolate, blueberry, black pepper, soft earthy minerality mouth-filling tannins.”
Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona Brunello di Montalcino 2006
Anani says: “The bouquet is intense, fruit-forward, spicy and floral with hints of red berry fruits enriched by delicate spicy notes. Warm, soft and very well balanced on the palate; structured with soft tannins and long aftertaste.”
Ramey, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2007
Anani says: “This cabernet boasts a dense purple color as well as a big, sweet bouquet of blueberry and black currant fruit intertwined with licorice, bay leaf, cedar and fruitcake notes. It’s full-bodied and opulent.”
Menu #2: Glazed Applewood Smoked Heritage Ham, Yukon Gold Potato Gratin with Morels, French Green Beans with Citrus Butter and Tarragon, Duck Fat Biscuits
Albert Boxler, Pinot Gris “Brand,” Grand Cru 2008
Anani says: “Color: bright; Nose: complex; Acidity: crisp; Overall: elegant; great wine….honeysuckle, mango, floral….. superb wine…”
Patz & Hall, Pinot Noir “Hyde Vineyard,” Carneros 2009
Anani says: “Seductive aromas of cherry, kirsch and bittersweet chocolate, segue to red fruit flavors of raspberry, cranberry and framboise, with hints of char and cocoa in this Pinot. The 07 vintage is big and rich with a palate of soft, coating tannins, while still displaying elegant acid balance and a vibrant charm.”