Tastemakers: Matterhorn Grill dinner at Tastes of Black Star Farms

Oct. 4, 2009

Matterhorn Grill Dinner at
TASTES of Black Star Farms
Rick Coates 10/5/09

When Black Star Farms decided to open a tasting operation (TASTES of Black Star Farms) at the Mercato in Building 50 (located at the Village of the Grand Traverse Commons) a few years ago, their focus was going to be on the eau de vies and distilled spirits they were making at their winery on the Leelanau Peninsula.
Yet, after opening and serving their award-winning fruit brandies, they were informed by the State of Michigan that it was not legal to serve the brandies at a location other than where they were being distilled for tasting purposes. In fact, they are not even allowed to sell the brandies at any other location except at the distillery and through the distribution system set up by the state (although boutique specialty products such as these find it a challenge to make their way into the state’s distribution network).
Black Star Farms could have easily folded up shop and closed their doors and been content with their Suttons Bay and Old Mission tasting operations. Instead, they decided to stay open and offer a unique dining experience -- Matterhorn Grill Dinners, a popular concept in several European countries.
This casual-style meal includes sausages, ham, apples, bread, potatoes and assorted vegetables grilled by the diners right at their table-top. Once the grilling is completed, melted Leelanau Cheese Company raclette is poured over the top. Diners may choose from three different tasting samples: the classic white that is recommended by the cheese makers, or the reds or a sweet wine tasting.
This is a great dining experience for couples or a group of couples. My wife and I enjoyed the experience and we look forward to going back with other couples in the future. We were well attended to throughout the evening by Karen and Kevin who blended the history of this European dining experience with the 10-year history of Black Star Farms. It was great to learn the story of this award-winning cheese from Anne and John Hoyt of the Leelanau Cheese Company (but I will save that for your own visit to TASTES) and about the cheesemakers expectations of this dinner and exactly how to melt the cheese to perfection.
Anne and John are right, even if you are a red wine drinker, the white wine sampler is the best pairing with this dinner. In particular, the Dry Riesling was perfect as Riesling is typically a great food-pairing wine.
Black Star Farms has a winner with this Matterhorn Grill Dinner. It is perfect for a romantic evening or a casual gathering with friends. Another bonus was the fruit tartlet (they have a great dessert menu) for two, paired with the raspberry port.
For additional details or to make reservations (suggested, as seating is very limited) check out www.blackstarfarms.com or call them at 231-944-1349. Matterhorn Dinners are available Thursday – Saturday evenings. --Rick Coates