Sommelier’s pick
Who: Marc Borel, beverage director of Rainbow Lodge. Growing up on the Louisiana coast, Borel has always had a flair for entertaining. However, his path to the hospitality industry was circuitous. While working as a radio personality in Beaumont, he also handled the station’s advertising and design, which led him to a job running the graphics department of a national oil company headquartered in Houston. Craving something more, Borel took a part-time gig at the Houston City Club and began studying and collecting wine. He eventually took on the title of media relations director and further honed his hospitality skills. Prior to this job, which he started in September, Borel worked at 13 Celsius, Backstreet Cafe and other local spots.
What: 2013 Walter Scott Cuvée Ruth Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley
Why: Borel believes Oregon pinot noir is the perfect fit for the dining options and the ambience at Rainbow Lodge. He calls the Cuvée Ruth, a Reserve Barrel Selection, “a gorgeous expression” of what the grape and the Willamette Valley terroir have to offer. “(They) crafted each vintage to represent the character of the season with the fruit coming from some of the best vineyard sites, including Freedom Hill, Eola Springs and Bieze Vineyards. This wine is elegant and polished with both red and black fruit notes layered with power and depth. Because only a small amount was produced, we are thrilled to be able to offer it.”
Buy it: $69 for a bottle