Late Winter Wine Tips From Bull & Bear

Tis the winter dilemma in Florida – which wines to serve in a climate that is celebrated for its winter sunshine, yet unpredictable (and downright cozy) winter nights?

Certainly, as the winter evenings get colder, Manny Belete, general manager of Bull & Bear at Waldorf Astoria Orlando, finds himself looking for comfort in red wine, especially those known to be full-bodied and lush.

“We sell a lot of Cabernets in the winter months,” he said.

Winter Reds
For an excellent winter warm-up, Belete suggests you try these hearty red favorites on the wine list at Bull & Bear:

• Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet – this wine is rich and full of tannins, yet approachable. You get the full body, but without being heavy.
• Atalon Merlot – this is a merlot that thinks it’s a cab!
• For something different, try a Malbec from Argentina, which doesn’t have the fruitiness of Cabernet, or an intensely fruity and spicy red Zin from California.

Winter Whites
Although reds are the preferred wines of the winter months Florida’s milder winters open the door for white wines.

“Once we hit spring break in Florida, most of our guests have their hearts set on summer,” said Belete.  “In this case, a white wine is good for the soul.”

These white wines on the wine list at Bull & Bear are perfect winter whites:

• Conundrum – This white blend is complex and fruitier, and has a lush creamy texture that seems to have garnered popularity with females.
• Mer Soleil by Caymus – a Chardonnay that features an oaky buttery finish.
• Cakebread Chardonnay – This is very similar to the Mer Soleil with less oak.  

“This is a favorite with our power hitters,” said Belete.

Winter Citrus
Since Bull & Bear’s menu features locally grown produce whenever possible, citrus-influenced dishes sometimes appear in the winter months.  Here are a few choices that pair well with winter citrus:

• Duckhorn Sauvignon Blanc – This dry, crisp and clean favorite is complex and focused.
• Schloss Vollrads “Kabinett” Reisling - This German white is versatile, fruity and refreshing.  Its elegant and delicate flavor sets it apart from its sweeter Reisling cousins.
• For the true red wine loyalist, Belete recommends a refreshing off-dry rose wine, which is now gaining a sophisticated new audience.

Bull & Bear is the signature restaurant at Waldorf Astoria Orlando.  This fine dining restaurant – much like its legendary cousin in New York City – features renowned steaks and chops from the highest quality cuts of meat.  In Orlando, Bull & Bear has a regionally inspired menu with a fine-dining flair, and has quickly become one of the most “talked about” restaurants in Central Florida. 

The beef is a stand out – especially the 36-ounce 28-day dry-aged prime-grade Tomahawk cut, which is carved and served tableside.  The menu blends classic favorites with modern twists, like  Crisp Pavé of Rockfish, served with roasted Zellwood corn and Maryland lump crab and crisped corn späetzel; the Pasta Explosion, which provides a delightful surprise inside hand-rolled noodles; and the Shrimp & Grits from Cape Canaveral, served in a smoke-infused dome with tasso ham and tomatillo chutney.   Desserts are easily the most remarkable in Orlando, including “The Lemon,” a delightful confection served inside a preserved lemon.
The restaurant recently “swept” the “Judges Choice” section of Orlando’s prestigious “Silver Spoon Awards” from the premiere local city magazine.  Accolades included:  Best Fine Dining, Best Desserts, Best Décor, and Best Service.  In addition, the “Readers Choice” section included Best Server and Best Steakhouse.