L’Espalier invites you to the banks of the Loire for a journey down France’s longest river, with sip-able stops along the way. On Thursday, March 24th, chef Frank McClelland and team will be serving up a six-course prix fixe of spring-inspired dishes with wines of the Loire to match. The menu includes plates like rabbit and foie gras pate, poached lobster and roasted hen with a bouquet of seasonal veggies. Each course comes with a pour, from chenin blanc to savory reds, chosen by Adam Friedberg of AP Wine Imports. The dinner begins at 7:00pm and costs $135 per person. Call 617.262.3023 to reserve your seat.

Amuse Bouche
Fluke cru with nettles, clementine and pickled radish
2014 Domaine Jean Teiller, Blanc, Menetou Salon

First Course
Rabbit and foie gras pâté with Spring carrots and leeks, Chartreuse gelée and pistachio
2009 Domaine Les Maisons Rouges, “L’Eclos”, Sec, Jasnieres

Second Course
Beurre noisette poached lobster with shrimp dumpling, white asparagus nage, grapefruit and basil
2014 Domaine Bourillon Dorleans, “Coulee d’Argent”, Vieilles Vignes, Sec, Vouvray

Third Course
Pot roasted guinea hen with Spring parsnips, ragout of black truffles and king trumpet mushrooms
2014 Château de Targé, Rouge, Saumur-Champigny

Fromage
Assortment of artisanal Loire cheese
2009 Domaine Lydie et Max Cognard, “Les Tuffes”, Bourgeuil

Dessert
Fresh rhubarb tart with crème fraîche mousse
2008 Château Belle-Rive, Quarts de Chaume