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Small Barrels Magazine

Reviews of Fine Wines, Luxury Hotels and the Best Restaurants on Earth

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Dining in High Style at Lake Louise – The Post Hotel

March 3, 2016 By karin Leave a Comment

‘Elegant comfort’ is the phrase that best describes the dining at The Post Hotel. We’ve found it to be the perfect way to end a day spent out in the mountain air working up an appetite. The food is elegant and always-pleasing with surprisingly generous portions. And the wine selection is among the finest in Canada. The cellar’s 25,000+ bottle, widely-varied collection, gathered and curated by Post co-owner George Schwarz, is a marvel of rarities. If you enjoy great food, fine wine and hospitality that is at once warm, welcoming and first-class, you will love The Post Hotel.

Post Hotel Exterior

The dining room itself was a pleasure to ‘come home to’ each evening – a spacious, comfortable space with both the ease and refinement of an upscale lodge. The décor is unpretentious, but full of  thoughtful touches. There are crisp white table linens, and fresh cut wild flowers in small glass vases gracing each table. The lighting is soft, and a welcoming fire in the stone fireplace hearth adds further warmth. Service is impeccable, but not in the least bit fussy. Servers are friendly, personable and professional with in-depth knowledge of the menu. Over the course of this stay (and earlier visits), we’ve come to know many of the staff by name and felt in good hands no matter who was taking care of us. We know from the contented faces faces at the other tables that we weren’t alone.

post-hotel-dining-room

We spent six nights at The Post and dined in its restaurant every evening. Some may say this is an overly long stay in one place, but we this was not at all our feeling. The comprehensive menu was more than adequate to provide something interesting to try at each meal –  in fact, there were so many choices that it wasn’t unusual for us to start planning the next day’s dinner on any given evening.



But when we say variety, it isn’t the confusing all-over-the-place mash up of cuisine styles that seldom works out well. Under the direction of executive Chef Hans Sauter, there is a definite style that unites the many choices. Fresh ingredients, often sourced from local or nearby farms and producers characterize the menu. Range fed Alberta beef and bison figure prominently on the menu as entrees, and pop up as appetizers as well (such as the carpaccio of bison). Alberta-grown heirloom tomatoes and other market vegetables are also featured in salads and pairings for main courses. Elegant homemade sauces like the ginger white wine sauce accompanying the pan-seared cod or the creamy porcini sauce with the veal tenderloin are outstanding. The handmade tagliatelle and spinach papardelle impressed us greatly, and we aren’t ‘pasta people’. (But, this is what happens when food is prepared by masters.)

hans-sauter-555x465

One should go to the Post ‘warned’ that portions are very generous, even when not necessarily expected (such as in the multi-course Gourmet Tasting Menus). Appetizers could easily stand on their own as meals. In fact, overall, we found the hot appetizers to be star of the menu in terms of their originality and bright flavours. Our favourite hot appetizers were the Pan Seared New Zealand Scampi over Chanterelle Arugula Risotto and the Pan Seared Foie Gras in White Port Wine Sauce, Quince Compote (though we somehow soldiered on to eat a main course, these could have easily been a complete meal). Cold appetizers were quite lovely as well, with fresh terrines and pates (changing every few days), of course incorporating those fresh, local regional ingredients. A particular standout on the ‘cold’ side of things was a trio of smoked salmon appetizer, thickly cut and served with house made condiments.

post-hotel-wine-cellar

Main courses on this menu tend to be more ‘meat and potatoes’ (still elegant and wonderful, but in some ways perhaps not as memorable as the appetizers).  Fondant potatoes or Rosti potatoes are common accompaniments, as well as classic sauces (bordelaise, bearnaise, creamy peppercorn). A standout dish was the Alberta Rabbit Braised Leg on Caponata and Tenderloin on Rabbit Jus served with Soft Polenta (I probably would have ordered it again had there not been so much to choose from). The zesty caponata brought the perfect brightness to the rich rabbit and savoury jus. The herbed polenta was creamy and quite marvelous.  To our surprise, as beef and red wine lovers, it was the fish and seafood dishes that stood out as our most memorable main courses. We would highly recommend (and go back for) the Pan Seared Miso Marinated Fillet of BC Black Cod with Ginger White Wine Sauce, Chinese Broccoli, and Roasted Fingerling Potatoes. The dish was very flavourful, and the fish was incredibly tender and fresh. The Sautéed Atlantic Lobster in Chardonnay Beurre Blanc was generous and succulent. We paired this particularly meal with the Hermitage (Jean-Louis Chave) 2009 and finished things with a rare Australian ‘Sticky’ Tokay (though seldom ordered, it was perfectly chilled in anticipation – a classic Post touch!)

hermitage-jean-louis-chave-2009

As mentioned above, the each night a Gourmet Tasting Menu is offered. During our stay, we saw the menu change twice (it seems, logically, to change toward the busier weekends). The portion of each menu item was remarkably large; that paired with the quality of the ingredients and the care of preparation, the $105 price per person is very reasonable. Our tasting experiences included such treats as Ahi Tuna Tartar with an Asian Bean Salad and a Pot-au-Feu “Rougie” Duck Breast, Wild mushroom risotto, an intriguing Wild Board Chop with Caponata, marsala sauce and goat cheese.  There were refreshing sorbets, and dark chocolate mousse concoctions, and other assorted treats. (As a person with severe allergies, our servers and the brilliant kitchen staff were incredibly gracious, aware and accommodating. I felt fully taken care of and not in the least bit disadvantaged by the the substitutions made for me. One of the best experiences ever in this regard!). What wine to have with such variety – always a conundrum! On one occasion, we ‘settled’ on a beautifully scented, smooth and fruity 2012 Dumol (Pinot Noir) that paired beautifully with everything following the tuna (for which we let our pre-dinner champagne and vodka martini ‘linger’).

post-hotel-tasting-menu

Desserts are lovely and decadent, although more often than not we opted to finish our evening with a selection of cheeses – from runny French bries to sharp Quebec cheddars to bold English stilton, there was always something to enjoy.

We must mention that lunch can be as much of a highlight as dinner; the menu has an impressive range, covering everything from gourmet, egg-dipped sandwiches, salade nicoise,  veal bratwurst, and duck confit with arugula salad.  And where else can you order a bottle of Blankiet Paradise Hills (2003) at noon – there’s something so decadent about that! Plan on having at least one (better – two) lunches at the Post to maximize your sense of luxury. Breakfast is also served, and while a more standard experience (eggs, breakfast meats, toast) the food is excellent, hot and served with care.

Post Hotel Pipestone River

In one of the most beautiful geographical locations on earth, the Post Hotel dining room does an incredible job at standing out as one of the Rocky Mountains’ major highlights.

Filed Under: Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: award winning wine cellar, fine dining Lake Louise, luxury restaurants, Rocky Mountains, tasting menu, The Post Hotel

Top Reasons to Head to a Ski Town in Autumn

December 21, 2015 By karin Leave a Comment

Lake Louise is a stunning alpine lake in the Canadian Rockies, a turquoise jewel nestled at the base of glacier-packed mountains. Picturesque? Always. Tranquil and soul-restoring? Well – that depends. After all, Lake Louise is located in a national park that welcomes several million visitors every year. In summer, long lines of cars, RV’s, and massive caravans of tour buses arrive daily at the lake’s shores for photo ops.  Winter brings the skiers in droves to the region’s slopes (and of course, those famous turquoise waters will be hidden below ice and snow.)

Lake Louise October 2015

Having been to Lake Louise at various times of the year, we’ve come to the conclusion that early autumn may just be the most brilliant time to visit – and the diminished crowds aren’t the only perk. Here are our best reasons to give an ‘off-season’ trip to Lake Louise a try:

Avoid Those Mountain Traffic Jams

Lake Louise at peak tourism times in the summer is known to have stand-still, bumper-to-bumper traffic winding down from the lake all the way to the town site about 4 km below. Why spend your precious vacation time stuffed into your car? These extreme traffic jams may not be daily occurrences, but summer time (even on the least busy day) ensures bustling crowds at the lake shore as day-trippers congregate for their alpine photo-ops.



In early October, however, a quiet, easy-going stroll minus the urge to sharpen your elbows is more than possible. The same can be said for nearby Moraine Lake, accessible off the main road to Lake Louise. Packed with crowds in the summer, the majestic, peak-encircled lake whose image once graced the Canadian twenty-dollar bill can be enjoyed in relative serenity.

Moraine Lake October 2015

Summer Services Are Still Available

The summer tourism season officially ends immediately after Canadian Thanksgiving Monday (around mid-October – this year, Monday October 12).  After that, many operations in the area come to a virtual standstill; for instance The Post Hotel where we spent our week shuts down completely for several weeks in preparation for the ski season. Until then, however, you can enjoy the activities,  services, and experience everybody seeks out in summer – but without the ‘everybody’.

We were thrilled to learn that the Lake Agnes Tea House would be open during our stay. Taking advantage of the glorious near-summer-like weather on the first full day of our trip, we drove up to the lake then hiked for an hour or so up the mountain trail to the rustic tea house for refreshment. We enjoyed a piping hot pot of Early Grey (the menu boasts over 100 tea varieties), munched on yummy sandwiches made with fresh-baked bread, and ended with homemade chocolate chip cookies. Best of all, we easily secured a table on the tea house’s deck overlooking the lovely Lake Agnes – without feeling in the least bit crowded or rushed.

Big Beehive October 2015

The Weather Works in Your Favour – No Matter What It Decides to Do

On a summer trip to the mountains, you’re probably hoping for a day or two when you can strip off that fleece layer and enjoy a mountain picnic in your shirtsleeves. In winter, of course, it’s all about that perfect dusting (or dump) of snow. But mountain weather is notoriously variable, so you can almost count on having to change your plans.

Autumn is different. We all know it to be a season of transition, so right away it’s easier to embrace unpredictability. You may be blessed with a few summer-like days (as we were), and if so – great! Take a longer hike, rent a canoe from the still-open boathouse and paddle the Lake, take a meandering drive headed for Banff on the scenic Bow Valley Parkway, or maybe go on that picnic wearing shirtsleeves.

Paddling on Lake Louise October 2015

On the other hand, it could be snowy or cold or both. You know you’re not going skiing, but you can enjoy the chalet-atmosphere of many of the accommodations. On a few chilly afternoons at The Post, we took full advantage snuggling up by the wood-burning fireplace in our room. When we felt more social, we sat on cozy sofas  and overstuffed chairs in the hotel’s front lobby for the hotel’s daily complimentary tea and coffee services (for guests only). There was also the option of having a beverage in the Sir Norman lounge by its large stone fireplace.

And if you get the timing right, whether the temperatures are warm or cold, autumn in the Lake Louise area might offer you something you will never see in July or February – mountainsides painted yellow and gold as larches and aspens turn colour. Contrasting with the dark evergreens, cool slate of the mountain rock, the brief glimpse of golden tones is truly breathtaking.

The Elegant Comfort of the Post Hotel Menu – Even Better When Cooler Temps Rule

Dining is always a first-class experience at The Post. But the menu is also hearty and generous. Rich, sumptuous options like Quebec Foie Gras, Veal Stroganoff, Lobster Risotto, and five-course tasting menus can be enjoyed year-round, but are more suited to bracing temps. Begin with a drink in the Sir Norman lounge by a warm, crackling fire, and the rest of the evening is sure to fall in place.

Any description of the dining at the Post would be incomplete without a mention of its incredible wine cellar. One of the most extensive in Canada and winner of a prestigious ‘Grand Award’ from Wine Spectator, any wine-lover passing through Alberta must make a stop at The Post. We sipped such rarities as the Hermitage (Jean-Louis Chave) 2009, the Leonetti 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, and even a Australian ‘Sticky’ Tokay. We appreciated long conversations with the restaurant’s knowledgeable sommelier as well as a private tour of the cellar’s remarkable collection.

Post Hotel Thanksgiving 2015

Fondue (Somehow) Tastes Better…

Fondue Stubli Post Hotel Cheese FondueThe Swiss mountaineering influence is everywhere in the Lake Louise region, from the fascinating historic photos lining the Post Hotel’s walls to the heritage signage around Lake Louise itself. But the tastiest tribute by far is the traditional cheese fondue.

We’ve spent many holidays at Lake Louise, and have always planned on at least one dinner at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise’s Walliser Stube. It’s impressive woodwork interior and even more stunning views of Lake Louise can’t be beat, but this year we discovered that it’s food can be. The Fondue Stubli has recently opened at the Post Hotel in the intimate setting of the former cigar lounge. Fondues are not all alike, and the meal we were able to enjoy prepared by executive chef Hans Sauter is one that eclipses our fondest Chateau experiences. Everything from the portions (huge, generous), to the unforgettable flavour and textures (rich, sharp, smooth), access to the Post’s seemingly-endless wine list, to the service (impeccable and friendly) stood head and shoulders over the Walliser Stube.

I should note that in addition to the unforgettable food and presentation, we had the place entirely to ourselves. Now this surely wouldn’t happen at the height of summer or in the depths of the winter ski season, would it?

Disadvantages?

If you want to ski, then yes – don’t go to Lake Louise in early October. But if you want to hike, paddle, picnic, drive, eat, relax  – basically do all the things you’d do anyway in summer but without the crowds, book your 2016 trip now.

 

 

Filed Under: Destinations Tagged With: Bow Valley Parkway, cheese fondue, Lake Agnes Tea House, Lake Louise, off season Lake Louise, Rocky Mountain scenery, The Post Hotel

The Post Hotel (Lake Louise, AB)

October 20, 2006 By admin Leave a Comment

There is no more breathtaking setting than the dazzling, turquoise mountain lake, Lake Louise. Nestled between a glacier and towering Rocky Mountain peaks, the lake is a pool of serenity that sends any onlooker into deep contemplation about nature and its creation. Even the constant bustle of people milling around at the lake side, having group photographs taken against the scenery, chatting in every language in the world cannot take away from the calm, soul-soothing sight of water, stone and snow.

And so one cannot imagine a place to stay that could surpass the grand Chateau Lake Louise that sits overlooks the lake and stands seemingly level to the mountains. A lakeside room may be the finest accommodations on the planet. But setting “setting” aside, there is another place tucked away in Lake Louise. If it lacks the supreme view, it more than makes up for this shortcoming in terms of service, dining, and other luxuries.

The Post Hotel is located in the town of Lake Louise itself about a five minute drive from the actual lake. This luxury log chalet is set beside a babbling mountain brook and majestic, rich green pines. Strolling over the brook’s bridge, one is sure to see cheerful, billowy clouds of smoke coming from several of the hotel’s chimneys. Several rooms and suites are outfitted with a stone, wood-burning fireplace for chilly mountain mornings all year round, cozy après ski afternoons, or romantic evenings. The fireplace alone is a reason to go (and return) to the Post Hotel. Staff cleans the fireplace and refreshes the wood daily so that you can always keep a glowing fire burning.



And it is only the beginning of the luxuries. The rooms, cozy and attractive with wood-beamed ceilings, are outfitted with fine sheets and down pillows and comforters. You sink into the homey yet tastefully patterned sofas and chairs set in front of the fireplace. Bathrooms are spacious, clean and modern, complete with an air tub and fine Aveda products. Even the towels are lofty and cozy. And this is just the sort of touch that you come to expect at the Post Hotel where the greatest attention is paid to the smallest detail to make you feel transported, pampered, and worry-free.

Our sole complaint about our room paired with a strong recommendation–when staying at the Post, be sure to request a room on the “Preferred Side” as opposed to the “Standard Side”. Not only is the view better, but across the parking lot on the Standard Side is a rail line with trains constantly making their way across the Rockies. Charming in postcards, but not so at four in the morning. I’ll say it again–insist on the Preferred Side when making your booking.

The hotel itself is spacious, with a main building, and several private cottages along the mountain brook. If you need a change of scenery from your room or the unparalleled outdoors, an attractive reading room,the great room of the chalet, is steps away. Comfy reading chairs, board games, and walls lined with books make this room a particularly homey and relaxing way to spend a few hours.

The Temple Mountain Spa is another way to wile away hours at a time while at the Post Hotel. With private treatment rooms and luxury products, this is a must for anyone who loves to be pampered.

And we have saved the best for last–the dining. It is truly spectacular. With one of the largest wine lists in Canada, the Post Hotel excels at every aspect of fine dining. Under the masterful direction of Executive Chef, Swiss-born Hans Sauter, the menu is tantalizing and portions almost too generous. With incredible seven course tasting menus, or items like lobster with morel mushrooms and port reduction, you will leave filled and fulfilled. The décor is inviting–tasteful without being stuffy, reflecting the relaxing yet refined alpine chalet atmosphere. A grand stone fireplace enhances the romantic, mountain mood. The Chateau may have the view, but the Post Hotel has the food.

Consider the Post while at Lake Louise. Yes–visit the lake, take the scenic hikes, book a seating for High Tea at the Chateau, and dine at the Waliser Stube there for a classic cheese fondue–nobody does this better than the chateau. But you will not regret returning to the Post to be pampered, to luxuriate over food and wine, to be served like you are a cherished guest. This is what a holiday is all about.

Overall Experience
We give The Post Hotel 5 Stars- Outstanding!

The Post Hotel is located at 200 Pipestone Road, Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada, T0L 1E0. For hotel reservations call (403) 522-3989 or Toll Free in North America at 1-800-661-1586. Email [email protected] or visit www.posthotel.com for more details.

Filed Under: Hotel Reviews Tagged With: fine dining, hotel rooms with fireplaces, hotels Lake Louise, Lake Louise luxury accommodations, The Post Hotel

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