Q&A with Mickey Mantle’s Wine Director, Eric Welch.

Taking a position as Wine Director four years ago, Eric has developed an award-winning wine collection for Mickey Mantle’s and has created a wine program for staff and guests to make learning wine relaxing and fun. Find out Eric’s thoughts on some wine-related questions such as his favorite glass of wine and what he has planned for Valentine’s Day!

 

What is your best wine memory?

Just recently I took a vacation and visited Hess Winery in California. The best wine memory was sitting on top of Mount Veeder while drinking their sauvignon blanc and dining on tuna tar with the head winemaker from Hess as well as some of my best friends.

What’s a wine trend that you’re currently excited about?

South American Wines from regions such as Chile & Argentina.  They are great value wines and give guests the opportunity to try a high-quality wine at a fraction of the price compared to other high-quality wines such as those from Napa Valley.

How much value do you see in using a 100-point rating scale with wine?

I think it gives guests confidence in their purchases.  I do value the rating scale, but I don’t always base my opinion on whether a wine is of quality due to its rating. Basically, what it comes down to is what your palette prefers.

If you had to fill your glass with one final wine, what would be in that glass?

That is a tough question, but if I had to choose, I would pour a glass of 2002 Joseph Phelps Insignia. A very beautiful wine with rich and concentrated fruits that glide down your palette like silk. I actually credit this wine to turning me into the wine enthusiast I am today.

Valentine’s Day is coming up soon and Mickey Mantle’s is serving a wonderful four-course dinner. Do you have any wine pairings planned for the evening?  

Yes, guests can look forward to a 90-plus point wine pairing & champagne specials.  I will also be featuring a chocolate-covered bottle of Martin Estate Cabernet Sauvignon.

Plan on taking your valentine in this Feb. 14th to Mickey Mantle’s Steakhouse for an exceptional Valentine’s Day dinner! Check out our menu from Exec. Chef Daniel Nemec on our website and make your reservations today!