Lamb chops

Sorensen's Resort, Hope Valley, California, August 15, 2012—

WE HAVEN'T SEEN any sheep hereabouts; to the extent that it's livestock country, it's cow country. But these "California Alps" remind me, at times, of the Alpes-Maritime — this morning we walked among pines and garrigue. And tonight I was pleased to find "Mediterranean Lamb" on the menu: "garlic, mint and fresh spice rubbed; grilled to your liking."

In truth it was grilled somewhat beyond my liking: I'd asked for them pink, but they were done throughout. Still, lamb, garlic, mint, and rosemary make a nice combination, and grilled lamb chops are clearly among the Hundred Plates. With them, as you see, broccoli cooked not quite enough, nicely roasted potatoes; before, a green salad.

Syrah, Bear Ridge (North Coast), vintage? (good varietal character, spicy, perfect lamb chop wine)

• Sorensen's Resort, 14255 Highway 88, Hope Valley, California; 800.423.9949