A Lunch Date For One...

 
Ara ara! I'm packed for an impromptu overnight stay? Yes and no.

I seriously thought about booking a room for one night since I didn't get a full night's rest on Tuesday night. I checked out the "same day" rates for my usual suite at SpringHill and decided I wouldn't stomach an extra $20 unless it's necessary. Not after what I spent for clothing on Monday and Tuesday.

I merely brought the TUMI duffel bag along for the drive in case of an emergency -- a smart move for any older traveler.

I got my usual table at Meritage, and this is one reason why I'd move to Temecula in a heart beat if I ever left San Diego. It's home to "only" 120,000 or so residents, and its far enough from the coast for blue clear sky.

During my meal, a brush fire broke out on the other side of town. I suspect it was in either northwest Temecula or in neighboring Murietta. The fire department put it out so quickly my server missed it.

Here's the lamb flatbread with a glass of 2021 Special Selection Malbec. These two played well with each other, and I'm certain the Malbec would be fantastic with chocolate or spicy food. It was also great by itself, which is surprising to my palette since I favor white wines.

The Malbec is $45 a bottle, and I may or may not bring one home soon for my 2025 Wines challenge. I have to return in four weeks for my wine club pickup, so I'm crossing my fingers this is either included in my June pickup or I can switch out one bottle for this.

I would gladly order this again on a future visit, and better yet it makes a great appetizer for two.

Moving on...

Once June rolls around I can no longer order dessert due to September's blood work. That's why I ordered the bread pudding with a small glass of 2018 Winemaker's Reserve A.K.A. Port. This was a surprising pairing that made my palette sing.

A Port bottle is $72 and from what I understand it pairs well with ribeye steak, mature cheeses and truffle infused pasta. Good thing I belong to the wine club, huh?

Speaking of which, thanks to my wine club discount the meal was $67.66 with tax included. Once I gave an appropriate tip and rounded up I gladly spent $88 on my self lunch date.

I look forward to my next visit in four weeks, and I suspect the menu will be updated by then too.