Strip House, the venerable New York City steak joint that flaunts a bordello-like ambiance, adds to its provocative vibe with the introduction of The Tease, a satisfying Napa Cabernet Sauvignon made expressly for the restaurant. Crafted in collaboration with esteemed winemaker Stephanie Putnam of Napa Valley’s equally fantastical Raymond Vineyards, The Tease is an ideal accompaniment to Strip House’s superior and succulent steaks, each prepared with precision and a plentiful dose of pepper.
The unique partnership journey began when Tylor Field, VP of Wine and Spirits at Strip House’s parent company Landry’s Inc., and his team sampled wines from Putnam and were enthralled with the outstanding quality and profile of the 2021 Raymond Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon. This set the stage for the launch of The Tease, sourced from two adjacent vineyards in the heart of Napa’s Rutherford AVA, a region known for producing some of California’s most iconic wines. The Tease profile includes an aroma of indulgent plums, blackberry, chocolate, and allspice. The full-bodied rich taste features abundant crème de cassis notes and opulent black fruit, with a finish of velvety tannins.
“Strip House has always been that secret place for an amazing steak experience, so we set out to create a wine that honors this and caters to the preference of our wine-savvy guests,” said Field. “We asked Stephanie to source the most special lots from the AVA of Rutherford to create an extraordinary wine exclusive to the esteemed guests of our Strip House locations. With the launch of this wine, we hope our guests will enjoy this unique experience with us.”
That experience is enhanced by a sultry and swanky interior softly illuminated in ruby red. Crimson leather banquettes line walls that feature original Studio Manasse prints of 1930s burlesque stars. An appealing, old school ambiance emanates, one in which aperitifs of martinis and Manhattans are de rigueur. The two NYC locations, in midtown and downtown, are equally inviting, and each features menu items for which fans return again and again, such as the dry-aged Porterhouse for two, the tender Filet Mignon, the ultra-flavorful Bone-In New York Strip, and sides including the Truffle Creamed Spinach and decadent “1000” Layer Goose Fat Potatoes. The rich, Instagram-worthy 24 Layer Chocolate Cake alone is worth a visit.
"As a winemaker, it's a delight to craft a Cabernet Sauvignon that truly embodies the essence of the Rutherford appellation,” said Putnam, VP of Winemaking, Raymond Vineyards. "This smooth, velvety wine with its signature dusty tannins has been a labor of love, and I'm thrilled to share this unique blend with The Strip House. It's a perfect match for an exceptional dining experience that pairs impeccably well with your favorite cut of steak.”
Look for The Tease to appear on the Strip House wine lists in early fall, 2024.
Photos courtesy of Strip House, unless otherwise noted
Fran Endicott Miller
Fran Endicott Miller is a luxury focused freelance feature and travel writer. Prior to her journalism career she held positions in the fields of politics, television, and professional sports, and is proud to have established the Golden State Warriors’ first community relations department and programs. Principled and genuine, she is known for thoughtful and thorough coverage, and for the quality ...(Read More)