Press Restaurant in St. Helena — a WOW Dinner!
I am just about to dive into my dessert of coconut sorbet. One of the only times I ever order dessert is after a meal at the excellent Press restaurant in St. Helena, and it is well worth the indulgence. Quite frankly, it is the smoothest and richest sorbet ever, and it’s following a wonderful dinner here at Press. This is simply my favorite restaurant in the Valley — the food and the service are amazing. Tonight, I had my favorite meal of New York strip steak cooked to perfection with a side order of brussels sprouts. I know, I know – you’re saying, “Brussels sprouts??” These were served sautéed with bacon and cranberries — simply wonderful. The New York strip steak had a perfect char on the outside with juicy, meaty flavors. I hope I am making you hungry. Oh, yes, and the wine – a rich, opulent 2008 from Blankiet.
Leslie Rudd, the owner of Press, is very active in both the Napa Valley and throughout the United States. He also owns Dean & DeLuca, the Oakville Grocery, and the wineries Rudd and Edge Hill. I would have to say that I am a big fan of Mr. Rudd. Historically, I have had many a meal at both Press and the Oakville Grocery, and I truly admire his dedication to quality wine. Rudd Winery is a beautiful property at the corner of the Silverado Trail and Oakville Cross Road in Oakville, CA (in Napa Valley). Mr. Rudd’s Edge Hill winery produces wonderful wines that age gracefully. I have enjoyed them all and have several cellared. While Edge Hill is not open for visits, a visit to the Rudd Winery is well worth the time. It is a sophisticated experience with a sit-down tasting that includes a tour of the lovely and lush grounds. The wine is deep and rich – the Sauvignon Blanc to the big cabernets are well crafted and enjoyable.
I have attended the majority of my wine classes at the Rudd Center for Wine Education at the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena. Mr. Rudd was the primary benefactor of the facilities that house the classes, and wine education here has been rated as one of the best in the US. Through his Rudd Foundation, he established the Yale Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity, which focuses on improving the world’s diet, preventing obesity, and reducing weight stigma. Yes, I would say I am a fan of Mr. Rudd’s interests and commitments.
When you get to Napa Valley, visit Press in St. Helena for dinner. This is a great experience in fresh flavor and quality. The wine list is extensive, and it’s presented on an iPad for your fun in perusing and choosing. This is a special experience you can savor for a long time.
Enjoy!
