“Newer” doesn’t always mean “better” when it comes to food and cooking. Family recipes are passed down through generations. My grandmother’s recipes for ethnic foods are still used by members of my family who know the hard work of creating a meal “from scratch” pays off in the unforgettable flavor of the final product. The magic of cooking brings to life many delicious family heirlooms.

It’s seems appropriate that tomatoes grown from the seeds of plants that have not been genetically changed for at least 50 years and pollinated the old-fashioned way by birds, insects, and the wind, are referred to as Heirloom Tomatoes. These tomatoes are a tasty, colorful group consisting of many shapes and sizes.

Domaine Chandon Etoile Restaurant Executive Chef, Perry Hoffman, is sharing a special, seasonal lunch menu every Thursday – Monday highlighting different types of Heirloom Tomatoes grown in his garden. This three-course menu begins with the sweet, juicy, fruity flavors of two types of heirloom cherry-tomatoes combined with a thinly sliced yellowfin tuna carpaccio. The second course introduces you to the creamy, rich, delicious Yellow Brandywine heirloom tomato served with a duck leg confit, baby fennel, and tomato chutney. Your lunch ends with an Heirloom Tomato Brulee featuring aged balsamic ice cream, cocoa nibs, and cinnamon basil! Of course the lunch menu also includes a glass of impeccable Domaine Chandon wine.

Whether spending an afternoon exploring everything Domanie Chandon has to offer or visiting as part of a day-long trip to several wineries in Napa Valley, contact Napa Valley Wine Tours for your private chauffeur to take you safely to all your winery appointments.

Tags: domaine chandon, Etoile Chef Perry Hoffman, étoile Restaurant, heirloom tomatoes, Napa Valley restaurants, Napa Valley Wineries, Napa Wine Tours