Aria Transports Guests to South Africa At Their Neil Ellis Wine Dinner

On Wednesday, May 23, Aria invites guests to discover and tastes Neil Ellis Wines from the South African districts of Stellenbosch and Elgin paired with Gerry Klaskala’s five-course menu. Just like Aria, Neil Ellis Wines are known for their high quality standards and dedication that leads to their luscious wines. Believe it or not, it’s been four decades since Neil Ellis entered the South African wine world. Now Ellis, his son Warren and a team of growers and winemakers work with four distinctly different kinds of terroir to produce wines that have earned accolades and are in great demand. The five-course dinner is preceded by a reception at 7 p.m. featuring a Groenkloof, Sauvignon Blanc 2010. Dinner begins with Georgia white shrimp and Georgia peach and Vidalia onion salad with white balsamic vinaigrette paired with Elgin, Chardonnay 2009. Patrons continue their journey with pan-roasted Carolina quail, foie gras and brioche with Stellenbosch, Pinotage 2008; garganelli with ragu of wild boar and mushrooms with Reggiano Parmigiano paired with Elgin, Shiraz 2008; and porcini-crusted loin of spring lamb with creamy leeks and fava beans paired with Stellenbosch, Cabernet Sauvignon 2008. Blueberry crème fraîche cake with lemon custard buttermilk ice cream perfectly ends the evening on a light, fruity note. The cost is $100 per person; tax and gratuity are included. For reservations, please call 404-233-7673.