Darn Good Gundlach at Blackfin Bistro

Recently Gabriele and I celebrated our anniversary in Key West, Florida. The most enjoyable dinner we had was at a relatively new place recommended by a discerning client of mine, Blackfin Bistro.

We dined there early in the week, and snagged a table right near the door. So the pageantry of Duval street filtered by us as we ate, which added to the experience. The place is small and intimate, with the lights down so low it’s hard to read the menu.

It was a fantastic meal. This place has the perfect balance nailed — very casual atmosphere but at the same time delivering excellent food and polished service. Our grilled calamari was probably the most tender and flavorful I’ve ever had, prepared with garlic, parsley and toasted walnuts.

Gabriele’s Mahi-Mahi was outstanding, served with chopped chorizo and artichokes. The Nicoise salad was everything that simple and classic dish should be. And (of course) we found a very nice wine to go with dinner.

It was the Gundlach Bundschu 2007 Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir. First off it was served at just the right temperature, slightly cool. It has a beautiful aroma of strawberrries that are the dominant fruit, along with a touch of cranberry.

The wine was light bodied with a very nice texture on the palate. It had a nice tart and clean finish. This wine isn’t deep or mysterious but is a quality, new world Pinot that delivers a lot of enjoyment. I recommend it, especially at the fair markup charged by Blackfin.

If you’re heading to Key West, add Blackfin Bistro to your restaurant list. And until you get there, pick up a bottle of Gundlach Bundschu Pinot Noir.