February 2017
Larks Home Kitchen Cuisine, with locations in Ashland and Medford, was named the 2017 Wine Program of the Year by the Oregon Wine Press and the Oregon Wine Board as part of the 2017 Oregon Wine A-List Awards. This program recognizes 124 restaurants around the world that display deep appreciation, enthusiasm and support for Oregon wines as seen in the diversity of regions and varieties on their wine lists.
“In the 11 years that I have been with Larks, it has been truly extraordinary to see the progress that the Oregon wine industry has made,” said Ava DeRosier, director of food and beverage at Larks Home Kitchen Cuisine and Neuman Hotel Group. “Oregon artisans, farmers and wineries deserve a platform to be seen, and we are doing our part to showcase the quality of food and wine that this region is producing. We believe that the very best meal we can offer our guests is from our own backyard.”
Oregon Wine A-List Awards-winning restaurants dedicate a significant portion of their wine lists to Oregon wines, while Regional Spotlight winners include a diversity of regions and varieties. The Wine Program of the Year winner sets a standard of excellence for an Oregon wine restaurant program.
“It is a tremendous honor to be recognized among so many restaurants that share our same passion,” Ava said. “I believe it also sends a strong message that Southern Oregon has visibility and is is recognized for qualilty.”
Ava is especially wild about Southern Oregon Rhone varieties and blends. “Pebblestone Viognier with herb roasted chicken, or Cowhorn Syrah with braised beef are matches made in heaven,” she said.
DeRosier sees the wine industry as the future of tourism in Southern Oregon. “I think our region is becoming a hot spot for world travelers and wine lovers,” she said. “The diversity and quality of our wine production is world class, and the grape growers are putting Southern Oregon on the map.”
Michelle Kaufmann, communica-tions manager for the Oregon Wine Board, agreed.
“Our wine industry would not be where it is today without the support of the restaurateurs, sommeliers, wine buyers and service staff who all act as our frontline ambassadors on a nightly basis,” she said. “This program allows us to celebrate these esteemed restaurants around the world that are showcasing just how food-friendly Oregon wines are.”
The 2017 Oregon Wine A-List Award winners can be found online at oregonwinealist.com.
