Muselet’s Ron Acierto Launches Wine-Fueled Pinoy Pop-Up

The wine guru behind Muselet, one of 2016’s saddest restaurant closings, Ron Acierto is back with the Pinoy pop-up series, combining high-value wines and the talents of up-and-coming Portland chefs. Speaking with Eater, Acierto says he wants to introduce obscure Oregon and European wines to connoisseurs and amateur wine fans alike through unexpected pairings.

“I want to be the advocate of Oregon wines, but also incredibly affordable, great European wines,” says Acierto. At Muselet, he won accolades for its geeky, fun wine program, and he has a unique ability to communicate the joy of wine, after years of leading upscale programs at restaurants such as Bluehour, Lucier, Departure, and Jory at The Allison Inn.

“Pinoy” means Filipino, and the first pop-up takes place March 11 at Viola Wines, featuring Filipino-inspired small plates by fellow Filipino Jonnah Ayala Koziol (Tasty N Sons, Jory at The Allison Inn). Dubbed “4 by 4 by 4,” the night will include four Viola Wines, four European wines from Acierto’s private collection, and a four-course menu. Dishes include albacore ceviche and rolled crepes with Lumpiang Shanghai pork, mushrooms, sweet chili, white soy sawsawan, and cara-cara pomegranate relish. Tickets cost $48, are all-inclusive, and can be reserved by calling 503.706.4671.

“The goal is not just to have great food and great wine, but to have fun with it and offer memorable experiences in different spaces,” says Acierto. “Ambience dictates the entire experience from beginning to end. How do I interpret the food and wine, and how do I match it with the space? There has to be a symbiotic relationship.”

Pinoy pops up next at Oregon Wines on Broadway on March 26 with Oregon and French sparkling wines. Moving forward, Acierto plans to hold additional pop-ups at urban wineries, tasting rooms, and event spaces. Meanwhile, Acierto will also be offering tastings every Thursday at Ross Island Grocery & Cafe, providing an opportunity for curious folk to sample some of those great, esoteric Oregon and European wines for free.

• A Pinoy Pop-Up at Viola Wines [Official Facebook Eventpage]