Marché Moderne is a chic bistro tucked in the third floor nook of the South Coast plaza by Nordstrom. I was there for lunch and thought that it would be a good way to tally another wine (#497). Selecting the menu prix fixe, or “Spontané” for an economical twenty dollars, I would be served a salad, entrée and dessert. I chose a wine that I thought would compliment the braised short ribs (the entrée) and was in my price range because the glasses were heavy on the billfold. Fifteen dollars for an 8oz pour of a 2006 Shiraz, Mouvedré and Grenache blend!

The wine, Torbreck Vineyards “Old Vines” was poured before me, transferred from a dinky beaker to crystal stemware that I thought was an interesting approach to wines-by-the-glass. After a sniff, I detected some raspberry and a touch of leather. On the palate the wine possessed a silky texture and was full-bodied, it worked with well with the tender short ribs.

The food was very good, its presentation was immaculate and the courses from salad to dessert were well executed. The wine served its purpose as a supporting character of an enjoyable outing but I might forgo the glass in favor of a bottle if I am with drinking enthusiasts because it is hard to swallow a fifteen-dollar pour.