Utah’s Urban Winery
“Kafkaesque” is how a representative of Kiler Grove Winegrowers describes the lengthy process of opening Utah’s first urban winery, where legal-aged wine lovers can now sample and purchase Kiler Grove wines. The wine grapes come from Pasa Robles, Calif., and are mostly Rhone-style varieties such as Mourvedre, Grenache and Petite Sirah along with Trebbiano and Zinfandel. Interesting Kiler Grove wines I’ve tasted include red blends called Interpretation and Zinergy. The wines are currently available for sampling free of charge at the Kiler Grove tasting room at 53 W. Truman Avenue (2330 South) in South Salt Lake, from 12-7 p.m., Thursday through Saturday.
Responding to the question “Why Utah?” winemaker/co-owner Michael Knight replies, “In a nutshell, Utah’s business-friendly environment made sense. Our winery permit in Paso Robles didn’t allow for tasting-room privileges on our property. After years of fighting California’s very slow-moving bureaucracy, we decided to move the bulk of our winemaking operations to Utah. Since my wife, Elva, and I are long-time Utah residents, we figured we’d try something at home. Utah’s recent moderation of liquor laws seemed like a much more appealing business prospect than continuing to fight an intractable bureaucracy back in California. Plus, we were excited about the prospect of bringing our wines to Utah, which has truly become a sophisticated market for authentic, high-quality food and wines.” For more information, call 801-746-0977 or visit KGWWine.com.
Dojo Mojo
Dojo, serving “Asian inspired cuisine” has opened at 423 W. 300 South. The contemporary new restaurant/sushi bar has lots of eye appeal and, so far, a lot of palate appeal as well. I recently enjoyed some not-so-common nigiri choices like ohyo, madai, kani and umi masu. But, what really rocked me was an outstanding bowl of ramen noodles with delicious homemade broth and tender strips of pork belly (pork shoulder ramen is also offered). Wine, beer, sake and cocktails are available. For additional information, visit DojoSLC.com.
Quote of the week: Why does Sea World have a seafood restaurant? I’m halfway through my fish burger and I realize, oh my God … I could be eating a slow learner. —Lynda Montgomery
