Vinexpo New York returns to the Javits Center for a third year, March 2-3, 2020

November 11, 2019 by evebushman

NEW YORK – The leading international exhibition for wine and spirits professionals in North America, Vinexpo New York returns for a third year, March 2-3, 2020, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. The 2020 show promises to build on the momentum of the March 2019 program, which drew 400 exhibitors and 3,000 wine and spirits professionals—three-quarters of whom indicated they are directly involved in purchasing.

Jointly organized with Diversified Communications, Vinexpo New York is open exclusively to trade professionals. It features two full days of educational programming, networking opportunities, and an exhibition hall strategically organized to foster business relationships between both domestic and international producers and American importers, distributors, retailers, brokers, e-commerce representatives, on-trade buyers and sommeliers. Registration for attendees is now open, with an early bird rate offered through Nov. 30.

The 2020 show will introduce several significant new features, among them a new Importer Pavilion that will provide importers with an efficient platform to showcase their wine and spirits portfolios to top buyers and decision-makers from all regions of the U.S. and Canada. Also new is a Key Buyer Program offering VIP perks to high-volume wine and spirits buyers from top distributors and importers. Key buyers enjoy free entry to the exhibit hall, including all networking events, special events, One to Wine Meetings, conferences and master classes. They also have exclusive access to a Key Buyer Lounge that provides a comfortable place, stocked with complimentary refreshments, to meet with their team during the expo. Key buyer nominations are being accepted at keybuyer@vinexponewyork.com .

Vinexpo New York 2020 will also see the return of popular signature offerings like the complimentary One to Wine Meetings matchmaking service and WOW! World of Organic Wines, an exhibit and tasting area devoted exclusively to organic and biodynamic wines and spirits from around the world. More details of the 2020 program will be announced shortly.

Mary Larkin, president of Diversified Communications remarked, “We’re excited to continue our partnership with Vinexpo and to once again bring its power to America, where wine and spirits producers from around the globe have an unequalled opportunity to showcase their products to the largest wine-consuming market in the world.”

Added Vinexpo CEO Rodolphe Lameyse, “The strong results of the past two Vinexpo New York shows, and the early interest we are seeing from exhibitors for 2020, illustrates just how vital it has become in three short years to the international wine and spirits business. The show remains the single best opportunity for U.S. importers, distributors, sommeliers and other trade professionals to meet hundreds of international producers in one location.”

For more information or to register to attend, visit www.vinexponewyork.com.

About Vinexpo

Since its establishment in Bordeaux in 1981, on the initiative of Bordeaux Gironde’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Vinexpo has been a leading organizer of events for the wine and spirits industry. In 37 years, Vinexpo has developed a unique understanding of the market and an extensive network of key distributors around the World. The brand currently runs exhibitions in four set locations (Bordeaux, Hong Kong, New York and soon Paris), and the touring event Vinexpo Explorer. The Group also publishes every year the Vinexpo/IWSR Report, which is the most comprehensive survey of the global consumption of wine and spirits. For more information, visit www.vinexpo.com. Join Vinexpo on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Taste of Sta. Rita Hills and Moretti Wines is Moving to Los Olivos

November 10, 2019 by evebushman

We have watched Los Olivos change and grow over the years and what we see happening there is very exciting. There are some top-notched producers that have recently opted to open tasting rooms there. The wineries and Chamber of Commerce actively promote the area and sponsor many wonderful events throughout the year. And of course there are delicious restaurants and lovely stores to break up your wine tasting time there. As many of you are aware, we made the decision to move to Los Olivos because the wine tasting traffic in Lompoc has dramatically decreased. We were one of the early tasting rooms in the Lompoc Wine Ghetto and championed it for years…we still do. So this was not an easy decision. But due to many factors out of our control, it cannot compete with other wine tasting areas like beautiful Los Olivos.

Our wineries and concept will stay the same. At least initially, we will not be allowed to serve food except breadsticks. We are still in the process of jumping through some very strict permitting hoops to feature food as we always have. We are also under a permit there that restricts our customers to 21 years and older. (We apologize for the inconvenience to our customers who normally bring their children.) However there will be a table outside for anyone under 21.

We will be open Thursday – Sunday, 11-5, as we are now. We may add Mondays in the future and will let everyone know.

Taste of Sta. Rita Hills and Moretti Wines
2923 Grand Ave.
Los Olivos, CA
93441New phone number: 805-688-1900

We look forward to seeing you at our new location, Antonio and Jeni

Attilio Scienza and Serena Imazio’s nonfiction bestseller about the historical and genetic journey of European grapevines – finally published in English

November 9, 2019 by evebushman

VERONA, ITALY (PRWEB) – Attilio Scienza and Serena Imazio’s wine history opus ‘Sangiovese, Lambrusco, and Other Vine Stories’ is finally available in hardback, following its official launch in the European market on Thursday, October 17th, 2019. The publication, which is the English translation of Italian nonfiction bestseller ‘La Stirpe del Vino’ (Sperling & Kupfer, 2018) can now be purchased in Italy and, through Amazon.it, also in Europe; the digital version is also widely available through Amazon Kindle. Focusing on a number of iconic vine varieties (Sangiovese, Lambrusco, Pinot, Chardonnay and others), the book reconstructs the lineage of wine by analyzing stories of migration, conquest, and cross-cultural exchange underpinning wine commerce and viticulture. It is a must-read for wine professionals and enology students, while wine lovers and the general public will be drawn into learning more about the topic by the authors’ accessible prose.

From the website: Silvano Romani Parma

The book focuses on the history and ancestry of vines that are cultivated in Italy (e.g. Sangiovese, Ribolla, Primitivo, Traminer, and the many Moscato, Malvasia, and Lambrusco grapes), but also includes international varieties such as Chardonnay, Merlot, Syrah, and Pinot in the conversation, highlighting cross-currents and contamination: “What is certain is that research into the origin of the vine—as well as man in Europe, by a singular analogy—highlights a plurality of roots and matrices,” write Scienza and Imazio in the Introduction, “This is what happened in Italy […]: the variety of approaches demonstrates and confirms that our wine civilization is the result of a tormented hybridization of cultural contributions from the most diverse origins, ranging from Europe to Africa, from the Middle East to Central Asia. In this sense, the Italian case is archetypal for the whole of Europe: from the research on the identity of the vine in the different regions, emerges a continent without rigid borders, a continuous crossroads of migrations, interactions, hybridizations, contrasts and conflicts between peoples, which has drawn fundamental sap from the diversity of roots, on a cultural and political level.” (XXII)

Authors Scienza and Imazio have worked extensively on vine genetics. Scienza, who is Full Professor at the University of Milan, specializes in genetic improvement of the grapevine; he has published over 350 scientific articles and 15 books aimed at both academic and non-specialist audiences. He has also served on many national and international research committees and participated in the zoning of over 35 viticultural areas throughout Italy. A biologist by training, Imazio was a researcher in vine genetics at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia and at the Centro di Trasferimento Tecnologico dell’Emilia Romagna; she now works as a science writer for various outlets and has published books and articles on wine history, ampelography, and genetics. Thanks to both authors’ untiring curiosity for all-things vine, the book successfully blends together genetic research on grapes’ DNA, ampelography and botanical studies, anthropology, the history of ancient civilizations, linguistics and literary studies in a monograph which also critically expands on the notion of ‘native’ or ‘indigenous’ grape: “…the word ‘autochthonous’ gradually loses its meaning: the vines are the result of an intense and ancient varietal circulation between areas sometimes even spanning great distances, often without geographical boundaries, so the term no longer refers to a place, but to a time, in which the vine is manifested in an optimal way through its production characteristics. The meaning of autochthonous can also be extended to the place where the vine gives its best, such as Sangiovese which, although of southern origin—as we shall see—expresses its DNA in the best way in Tuscany and Emilia, where it is now considered autochthonous” (Scienza and Imazio, XXV).

In the book’s Preface, Vinitaly International’s Managing Director Stevie Kim, who has been working with Scienza since 2018 on the Vinitaly International Academy project, comments on the educational value of this publication for the international community of professionals working in the beverage sector: “The English translation of ‘La Stirpe del Vino’ (which literally translates ‘the lineage of wine’) is another powerful tool to assist wine professionals in their study of Italian wines. The revised title—Sangiovese, Lambrusco, and Other Vine Stories—aims to give prominence to iconic Italian grapes and wines that are well-known internationally. […] To our Vinitaly International Academy (VIA) community no glass of Italian wine will ever taste the same after reading Attilio and Serena’s ‘Sangiovese, Lambrusco, and Other Vine Stories’: this book […] will bring them closer than they have ever been to the wines that they taste, professionally assess, or drink for pleasure.”

‘Sangiovese, Lambrusco, and Other Vine Stories’ can be purchased on Amazon Italy for €18,90 and on Amazon Kindle for $9,99 (€ 9,02). Publisher Positive Press also provides shipping options. Additional information on the book can be requested by emailing info@italianwineunplugged.com.

Authors’ biographical note:

Attilio Scienza is Full Professor at the University of Milan, where he taught genetic improvement of the grapevine. His research interests include the genetic improvement of grape varieties and rootstocks by crossbreeding and clonal selection, the appraisal of old vines, and the study of interactions between the vine and the environment to enhance wine quality. He also worked on the preservation and enhancement of the Georgian germplasm. He is the author of 350 scientific publications and 15 books—both academic and of wider appeal—on topics related to the description of grape varieties as well as their relationship with the environment and historical origin. He also serves as the Chief Scientist of the Vinitaly International Academy, wine education provider specialized in teaching the diversity of Italian wine to international professionals.
After completing her degree in Biology in 2000, Serena Imazio begins her extraordinary journey into the wine world by pursuing doctoral studies on the origin and genetics of the grapevine. After her doctorate, she worked as a researcher at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia and at the Centro di Trasferimento Tecnologico dell’Emilia Romagna, where she started to get in touch with the world of communication and scientific dissemination of knowledge to wider audiences. She considers herself very lucky since she managed to turn her unabashed curiosity for all things science and her love for the wine world into a fantastic job.

Praise for the book:

“The unique triumph of Scienza and Imazio’s new book on Italy’s viticultural heritage is how, rather addressing it in isolation, it successfully sets Italy’s story in a larger geographical, historical and scientific context. In so doing, the authors reinforce rather than diminish Italy’s importance, expertly demonstrating how the peninsula and its myriad peoples were often key connectors joining the dots of seemingly disparate traditions. Sweeping in its scope, but retaining the intimacy of a personal anecdote, this book is a must for anyone who would seek to truly know Italian wine.” Sarah Heller MW, Proprietor, Radix
“Wine grapes are the most human fruits. Wherever they are planted, if successful, they not only represent in their wines the societies that took care of their cultivation, but also mark the character of the lands in which they grow. Attilio Scienza and Serena Imazio share a series of most exciting real stories about grapes travelling and transforming landscapes. Their angle—solidly based upon science and knowledge with as much global perspective as depth—is unique. They are like this book’s grapes, well traveled and exceptional. I have not seen many books so soundly structured and so easy to read, books that provide knowledge while stimulating the imagination of the reader. I enjoyed the Italian version first and then its English version masterfully translated by Joy Livingston. Thanks, Serena, Attilio for your contribution to the understanding of the world of fine Italian wine and, most of all, for giving to me (and I think that to many readers too) lovely hours of intellectual enjoyment.” Pedro Ballesteros Torres MW, International Wine Judge
“To speak with Professor Scienza, to read his books, and to listen to him is always a great experience as well as a profound learning journey that we can teach us new notions which at times were overlooked. For decades, Attilio Scienza has stimulated and energized the production sector of the agronomic and enological world. I don’t think we would have reached today’s results without his scientific commitment. Even now, every time I meet him, I always feel the excitement and reverence of a student. Thank you Professor Scienza!” Lamberto Frescobaldi, President, Marchesi Frescobaldi
“Attilio Scienza and Serena Imazio’s scholarly quest to understand the genetics of the vine and their passion to narrate their lineage weaving together anthropology, archaeology, sociology, and linguistics make this book a perfect learning tool for people who work in wine, but also for wine lovers at large.” Stevie Kim, Managing Director, Vinitaly International

About:
Sangiovese, Lambrusco, and Other Vine Stories (Positive Press, 2019) is the English translation of Italian nonfiction bestseller about wine history La Stirpe del Vino (Sperling & Kupfer, 2018). In the book, vine genetics experts Attilio Scienza and Serena Imazio illuminate the interaction between human communities and vines, in a journey which will reveal the lineage of wine through stories of migration, conquest, and cross-cultural exchange. Using DNA analysis, archeology, anthropology, myth, and literary sources, authors discuss the origin and ancestry of vines such as Sangiovese, Ribolla, Primitivo, Traminer and the many Moscato, Malvasia, and Lambrusco grapes. Chapters also cover more widely planted varieties such as Chardonnay, Merlot, Syrah, and Pinot, as well as the impact of the phylloxera epidemic in the nineteenth century. Maps and genealogical charts of vine families also grace the book. Available on Amazon for €18,90 and on Amazon Kindle for $9,99.

Did Eve Get an Education and Tasting from the Simply Italian Great Wines Tour 2019?

November 8, 2019 by evebushman

Once again I sat in traffic, this time to and from the Melrose area from Santa Clarita, for the sake of wine education and tasting. Why do I do this? I usually enjoy it and want to share information with you lovely readers. (Starting to re-think all of these events due to the driving. Asking now: would you prefer I just wax poetic with commentary and wine reviews? Email me with your opinion: Eve@EveWine101.com)

Italian Sparkling class

Now, to get back to the current task at hand, the Simply Italian event had no less than five classes offered every hour starting at 10 am. I missed the first and last, missed the walk around tasting completely but attended three educational seminars that included tastings: the sparkling wines from Friuli, wines from Franciacorta and then one on Asti, Asti Secco and Moscato d’Asti wines.

Sparkling Wines from Friuli

The Friuli Grave DOC is in the northeastern area of Italy, founded in 1972, with approximately 5,000 acres of pebbly stone soil terroir. It is the largest DOC in the region, 90% of the vineyards are on plains, 70% of the vines are white grape varietals and they have low yields. We tasted: La Delizia Spumante Cuvee Brut, “Jader”, Tenuta Bosco Albano Spumante Ribolla Gialla Brut Nature, Piera 1899 Spumante Ribolla Gialla Brut “Onedis”, Antonutti Spumante Rose Extra Dry, Albino Armani Pinot Grigio 2018 DOC Friuli Grave, I Magredi Pinot Grigio 2018 DOC Friuli Grave, Vistorta – Conte Brandolini Pinot Grigio 2018 DOC Friuli Grave, Tenute Tomasella Friulano 2013 “Le Bastie” DOC Friuli Grave and Fossa Mata Sauvignon 2018 DOC Friuli Grave. All had lovely fresh fruit to bruised fruit aromas, apple to apple cider, some spice, cream, minerality and/or balance. My favorites that I would definitely purchase if I found on a wine list or in a shop would be the Spumante Rose Extra Dry from Antonutti, Pinot Grigio 2018 DOC Friuli Grave from Albino Armani and the Friulano 2013 DOC Friuli Grave from Tenute Tomasella.

Wines of Franciacorta

Managing Director/Sales Director Riccardo Ricci Curbastro lectured on the Federdoc – which is the National Confederation of Voluntary Consortia for the Protection of the Designations of the Italian Wines that was established in 1979. We saw the former and new pyramid of Italian wines, labels, numbers and Designation of Origin (DOC) areas. If this information is of interest to you read more here. Of the wines, I was very pleased to enjoy them all and look forward to having them again: NV DOCG Brut, NV DOCG Rose Brut, 2013 Curtefranca DOC Rosso Vigna Santella del Grom (a blend of Cabernet Franc, Carmenere, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Barbera), 2011 Sebino IGT Pinot Nero (100% Pinot Noir – the grapes arrived in 1967 – that had intense black fruit and spice with an earthy long finish) and 2016 Rontana – Sangiovese Colli di Faenza DOC.

Asti, Moscato D’Asti and Moscato

Never been a sweet wine fan other than the honey-ed sauternes from Bordeaux, and, betting like other winos, turned up my nose to Moscato. After this lesson and tasting, I’ve had second thoughts. We learned about the Enjoy European Quality (EEQ) which was founded in 1932 and their project to promote Italian wines, salami and cheese. Their catchy motto is Pour it, Slice it, Cut it. (If you want to learn more check out their website.) Now if they had brought the cheese and salami to my table somehow I would’ve loved it, suffice it to say, I enjoyed the Pour It on this day. We were told that the wines all had a lower alcohol content – which is great for food pairing – with floral, lime and rarer sage notes. We tasted through: 2017 “Bric Prima Bella” Asti DOCG Extra Dry, 2014 Asti DOCG Dolce Millesimato, 2018 Valamasca Moscato D’Asti DOCG, 2018 Moscato D’Asti DOCG and 2018 Abbazia Moscato D’Asti DOCG.

www.ieemusa.com

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Russian River Valley’s Prestigious Wine Growing Reputation Experiences a Growth Spurt

November 7, 2019 by evebushman

Santa Rosa, CA—The Russian River Valley makes another big stride in proving itself to be one of the world’s premiere wine growing regions. In the 2019 Sonoma County Harvest Fair Wine Competition, the top three Sweepstakes winners were all wines made with Russian River Valley grapes. All three of the wineries are also members of the Russian River Valley Winegrowers (RRVW).

“Those of us who live and work in the Russian River Valley know what a treasure we have in the soils and climate that produce some of the most outstanding wines in the world,” says Chris Crispo, President of the Russian River Valley Winegrowers. “It’s gratifying to see that work recognized.”

The Sonoma County Harvest Fair hosted 18 judges over the course of 2 days for a competitive tasting. In the end, the three wines chosen for the top honors are:

Sweepstakes Winning Specialty Wine

Balletto Vineyards & Winery

2013 Sparkling Brut Rose- Estate, Russian River Valley

Sweepstakes Winning White Wine

Russian River Vineyards

2018 Chardonnay- Petersen Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Sweepstakes Winning Red Wine

J Vineyards

2017 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley

“My panel had arguably some of the most amazing wines of the competition,” says wine journalist and Harvest Fair Wine Competition judge, Laura Ness. “We felt we had the makings of a sweepstakes-worthy chardonnay in that Russian River Vineyards Petersen Vineyard, and it proved to be an all-around palate pleaser. Russian River really showed its special stuff in this well-run and highly competitive contest, from a plethora of wonderful rosés to exquisite pinot noirs. Kudos to all the winemakers for a great effort on every level.”

The Russian River AVA was established in 1983 and is the second largest appellation in Sonoma County (Sonoma Coast is the first). The area is known for its cool, foggy nights and mornings, which is the perfect weather for cool climate varietals like pinot noir and chardonnay.

Just as a wine region like Burgundy is filled with villages, the Russian River Valley is made up of six smaller areas called “neighborhoods” that stretch from Sebastopol to Santa Rosa and from Forestville to Healdsburg. A new UC Davis study shows scientific proof that each neighborhood is made up of unique soils and terroir that exhibit specific characteristics in the wines resulting in unique textures and aromas for each area.

The Russian River Valley Winegrowers are also celebrating member winery, Gary Farrell for making the list of the top 100 international wineries according to Wine & Spirits magazine. The region is included in Wine Enthusiast magazine’s declaration of Sonoma County being the “Wine Region of the Year”, and all member wineries are currently celebrating Sonoma County Wine Month as declared by the Sonoma County Vintners.

About the Russian River Valley Winegrowers:
The Russian River Valley Winegrowers (RRVW) is a nonprofit marketing and educational organization dedicated to promoting the Russian River Valley as the premier region for growing cool climate grapes while producing wines that showcase the diversity of the AVA’s six neighborhoods. The region’s generations of farmers and winemakers are continuing a long legacy of producing distinctive wines of exceptional quality, authenticity, and integrity. The RRVW has more than 200 members including growers, wineries, and sponsors. The RRVW provides regular marketing, publicity and community relations support through consumer events that promote the Russian River Valley as one of the world’s premier winegrowing regions.

San Francisco Travel’s Guide to Martinis and 21 Places to Drink Them

November 6, 2019 by evebushman

SAN FRANCISCO (PRWEB) – San Francisco has always been a city of firsts so it’s not surprising that the martini was one of its finest inventions. Keep reading for a crash course in martini history and our selections of the bars, restaurants, and hotels where you can find the most inventive and delicious martinis in San Francisco. You can take San Francisco Travel’s guide on the go at http://www.sftravel.com/article/san-franciscos-history-martini-and-where-you-can-drink-them.

The History of the Martini in San Francisco

During the 1880s, the town of Martinez in California was where miners gathered after prospecting in the Sierra Nevadas. A bartender developed a drink for miners to celebrate striking gold. The miners liked it so much that when one of them passed through San Francisco, they asked for a drink just like the one in Martinez. It is believed that a bartender in the Occidental Hotel in San Francisco created the martini by substituting white wine with vermouth—and so the famous drink ended up on the menu.

Even today, the martini continues to be one of the most popular cocktails globally. Where better to taste it than a bar in San Francisco?

What Makes a Perfect Martini?

When the martini was first created, it was a much sweeter drink than it is today. According to the experts, the perfect martini is made with just a few ingredients, but they must be of high quality. One part dry vermouth is combined with four parts gin and mixed together for around 10 seconds. The drink is poured into a chilled glass and served with a twist of lemon or an olive and ice.

Where to Drink the Perfect Martini in San Francisco

There are probably hundreds of bars and hotels where you can enjoy a classic martini in San Francisco. Here are 21 memorable places to begin.

Bix Restaurant (56 Gold St.)

With live jazz and a 1930s ambiance, Bix is a great place to sip a martini in San Francisco and sparked the resurgence of this popular drink in the 1980s. Located just off Jackson Square, a neon sign leads to a room full of mahogany panels, tall columns, and artwork. The restaurant specializes in American French cuisine and the mahogany circular bar is one of the best places in San Francisco to get a cocktail.

Harborview Restaurant & Bar (4 Embarcadero Ctr.)

In Ancient China, lychees were once said to be symbolic of royalty and love. Harborview Restaurant & Bar has introduced a touch of imperial romance to a classic American cocktail. Pair signature Chinese dishes with their popular Lychee Martini, topped with an orchid flower.

The Vault (555 California St.)

The Vault Martini is already a signature drink in San Francisco’s Financial District. Bar lead Tyler Groom created The Vault Martini, which offers guests a choice of Tito’s Vodka or Ford’s Gin with Dolin Vermouth and, uniquely, house made pickle brine. It’s served up or on the rocks.

Wayfare Tavern (558 Sacramento St.)

While Wayfare Tavern offers a robust cocktail menu, guests are encouraged to customize their martini. Do you prefer a vesper, or do you like it dirty with an olive? Do you prefer dry or heavy? Garnished with a lemon, lime, or orange peel? The bartenders at Wayfare Tavern are there to make your version of a martini.

Chart House (PIER 39)

Chart House offers a cocktail menu that is just as impressive as its sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Visitors who want a martini packed with a ton of flavor and a nice kick of spice should look no further than the Fiery Cucumber Martini. It contains ingredients that are just as spunky as its name suggests: Prairie Organic Cucumber Vodka, monin cucumber, fresh cucumber, Sea salt, cayenne pepper, and a lime zest rim.

Maybeck’s (3213 Scott St.)

Maybeck’s does a Classic Vesper Martini using St. George Local Gin and Vodka. Straight out of Ian Fleming’s “Casino Royale”, they even add a dash of bitters to make it taste like the original recipe, which uses Kina Lillet.

Aub Zam Zam (1633 Haight St.)

This tiny bar is a San Francisco legend and was a favorite of Anthony Bourdain. With its round wooden bar and Persian influence Aub Zam Zam is famous for martinis made in the old school way. It feels like stepping into the set of “Casablanca.”

August (1) Five (524 Van Ness Ave.)

At August (1) Five, the creative approach the team brings to their food also extends to their cocktail program. Their recently revamped cocktail menu includes classic cocktails, bottled cocktails, punchbowls, mocktails, and flights. Their Martini Flight features a sampling of their Summer Negroni, Roasted Onion Gibson, & Truffle Manhattan.

Noosh (2001 Fillmore St.)

Moroccan preserved lemons are used in several of Noosh’s dishes. Instead of discarding the remaining juices, the bar team began exploring ways to repurpose them in a cocktail. The Moroccan Martini is made with a salty, oily lemon brine combined with two French Vermouths (Dolin Dry and Comoz Blanc), which is finished off with a choice of St. George All-Purpose vodka or Tanqueray No. 10 Gin. The vodka is made with a pear eau-de-vie and the gin features botanicals like grapefruit and chamomile; both spirits have a delicate fruitiness that pairs well with the lemon brine and vermouths.

Tonga Room and Hurricane Bar (The Fairmont, 950 Mason St.)

The Tonga Room and Hurricane Bar is a San Francisco institution. A combination of tropical decor, bands playing live on a lagoon, and the occasional rainstorm make this a bar to remember. As well as the classic martini this bar is famed for its Mai Tai cocktail, made the same way since 1945.

Top of The Mark (Intercontinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco, 999 California St.)

Since 1939, this iconic bar at the top of the Intercontinental Mark Hopkins Hotel has been one of the best places to go for a drink. It has hosted dignitaries, movie stars, and World War II servicemen, all looking for that magnificent view of the San Francisco skyline. Sip your martini while gazing out at the near-360-degree views of the city.

Berber Restaurant & Supperclub (1516 Broadway St.)

Berber’s Souk du Soliel martini is made with saffron infused gin, orange blossom, honey, and lemon, garnished with three drops of olive oil and a beautiful edible flower. It’s easy to see why it’s their most popular drink.

The Stinking Rose (326 Columbus Ave.)

Where else would you enjoy a Gartini other than The Stinking Rose? This classic martini is garnished with hand-stuffed garlic olives and pickled garlic on the side. The Stinking Rose has become famous for celebrating the culinary euphoria of garlic and serving over 3,000 pounds of the pungent herb each month.

Presidio Social Club (563 Ruger St.)

The Presidio Social Club is a good place to stop for a drink or two after walking in the park. Sip a martini while you relax in the grounds. You can also taste barrel aged cocktails here including a Negroni or Gimlet.

Spruce (3640 Sacramento St.)

Spruce is a high-quality restaurant with more than 2,500 wines and spirits on its menu. You can relax in the bar with a classic martini before enjoying a meal in the award-winning restaurant that specializes in Californian cuisine. Taste a classic martini or choose from the extensive list of New World and European wines. You will also find a good whisky selection.

The House of Shields (39 New Montgomery St.)

This historic bar in SoMa dates from 1908 and has been in continuous operation since. It has been restored to its former glory and serves classic drinks in a simple setting with no clocks or TV.

John’s Grill (63 Ellis St.)

John’s Grill’s classic cuisine, wood-paneled walls and historic photographs reflect a colorful century of San Francisco’s history and its origins with the martini. Hammett’s Classic Martini (Grey Goose Vodka, Dry Vermouth, shaken and served up), is one of John’s Grill’s top specialty cocktails.

Martuni’s Piano Bar (4 Valencia St.)

One of the last original piano bars in San Francisco, Martuni’s knows how to mix a cocktail or two. This popular bar is one of the best places to get a martini in town. Go for the platinum martini, made from premier brands, or ask for more olives to make it extra dirty. Then again, you could just add a twist of lemon. At Martuni’s, the drinks are known to be strong. Before you know it, you’ll be joining in with singing at the piano.

MKT Restaurant – Bar (Four Seasons Hotel, 757 Market St.)

Paying homage to the martini’s origins at the Occidental Hotel and the “Father of American Mixology”, Jerry Thomas, the “Occidentally Famous” stays true to the original flavors of the Martinez cocktail. This martini is part of MKT’s new “Fog City Tales” cocktail menu, where each cocktail tells the story of a significant person or place in San Francisco’s history. The Occidentally Famous martini blends aquavit, cochhi vermouth, pear eau-de-vie, apricot liqueur, orange & juniper bitters, and sea salt tincture.

TAP415 at Westfield San Francisco Centre (865 Market St.)

Tap415’s delicious martini is crafted with your choice of gin or vodka and finished with a hint of Dolin’s Dry Vermouth de Chambery. This classic style of vermouth adds a light, clean profile to their martinis and has been the benchmark for French Vermouth since 1821. This classic recipe pairs perfectly with iconic views from under the Westfield Dome.

The View Lounge (San Francisco Marriott Marquis, 780 Mission St.)

The views from this popular bar in San Francisco are unforgettable. Sip a classic martini and let your eyes follow the San Francisco skyline through the arched windows in the bar. Try a classic martini or try the eggnog martini for a different taste.

The San Francisco Travel Association is the official destination marketing organization for the City and County of San Francisco. For information on reservations, activities and more, visit http://www.sftravel.com or call 415-391-2000.

San Francisco Travel’s main Visitor Information Center is now located at 749 Howard St., adjacent to the Moscone Convention Center. San Francisco Travel also operates Visitor Information Centers at Macy’s Union Square and in Chinatown at 625 Kearny St. San Francisco Travel is also a partner at the California Welcome Center at PIER 39.

For more about San Francisco, follow http://www.facebook.com/onlyinSF, http://www.instagram.com/onlyinsf andhttps://twitter.com/onlyinsf. Please use hashtags #sftravel and #AlwaysSF.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offers non-stop flights to more than 50 international cities on 44 international carriers. The Bay Area’s largest airport connects non-stop with 85 cities in the U.S. on 12 domestic airlines. SFO offers upgraded free Wi-Fi with no advertising. For up-to-the-minute departure and arrival information, airport maps and details on shopping, dining, cultural exhibitions, ground transportation and more, visit http://www.flysfo.com. Follow SFO on http://www.twitter.com/flysfo andhttp://www.facebook.com/flysfo.

Vintage Eve 12/2016: 18-Year-Old Grangestone Single Malt Scotch Whisky

November 5, 2019 by evebushman

It’s always been my opinion to never have someone that knows little about wine select wine as a gift for someone that does. I know this from experience….and I have more than one White Zinfandel as proof.

Scotch tasting @1999

However, I broke my own rule when I asked a beloved family member to gift my husband a single malt scotch whisky. She knew little about the spirit other than that we were fans. But, armed with a knowledgeable whisky attendant at a local Total Wine store, she learned a few things (like who in their right mind would want to drink something with strong aromas of peat moss?) and we scored this one:

Grangestone 18 Year Old Single Malt (Eve’s tasting notes)

Color: A rich 24 karat gold.

Aroma: Butterscotch pudding, rum, vanilla bean, pine, caramel and coconut.

Flavor: Charred marshmallow, butterscotch, Smokehouse almonds and cigar. (tasted with water).

Finish: Medium burn, long length ending in both a slight buttery sweetness.

Conclusion: Wholly pleasant from start to finish. 91 Eve pts.

Grangestone 18 Year Old Single Malt (website)

Grangestone 18 Year Old Single Malt is a selection of the finest Single Malt Scotch Whiskies have lain undisturbed for a minimum 18 years before our malt master carefully selects them for this rare and sublime Grangestone Blended Malt Scotch Whisky bottling.

Grangestone 18 Year Old Single Malt is from one of one of the most distinguished distilleries in the famous Highland’s of Scotland, this Single Malt Scotch Whisky has lain undisturbed for minimum 18 years in hand prepared oak casks.

This Single Malt Scotch Whisky has a subtle, gentle nose with malt with floral notes which develop to rich vanilla toffee and oaky spice on the palate. The finish is long and lingering and beautifully sweet.

Aroma: Subtle and gentle with malt with floral notes.

Taste: Rich vanilla and toffee flavours balanced with an oaky spice and vanilla warmth.

Finish: Long and lingering and beautifully sweet.

Awards

SILVER MEDAL WINNER OF THE INTERNATIONAL WINE & SPIRITS COMPETITION 2013. SILVER MEDAL WINNER FOR THE INTERNATIONAL SPIRITS CHALLENGE 2013.

http://www.grangestonewhisky.com/grangeston-18-year-old.html

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

wine2wine 2019 to showcase the best branding, social media and design practices

November 4, 2019 by evebushman

VERONA, ITALY (PRWEB) – Wine communication is often regarded as obsolete and in many publications wine advertising in 2019 does not look much different from wine advertising in 2009. For example, when marketing wine, the industry usually focuses on the bottle as a product and how it is made, rather than how it can engage and matter to consumers. Today, just as ten years ago, most of advertising placements show an image of a bottle, and mention a geographical component. As a result, consumers have become accustomed to this type of image; therefore, its persuasive power decreases considerably, with the ads failing to promote what they were carefully designed for.

Promoting a wine brand is no easy task, particularly in Italy, where wineries are innumerable. A good wine marketing strategy is an even more laborious achievement, since it includes broad subcategories such as branding, social media and design, among others. wine2wine this year will feature critical dialogues on how the wine industry should approach most of these practices, providing attendees with in-depth insights by some of the greatest experts in the communication and marketing sectors.

Participants taking first steps into the realm of marketing and communication should attend Claire Dawson’s session on communication strategies for Italian wineries. Having worked to promote classified estates in the Bordeaux area in France for over a decade, Dawson’s insights are pure gold for anyone aiming at highlighting their wine, history and heritage. Wineries with a strategy already in place, but willing to make their communication more diverse and inclusive, are going to be drawn to Elaine Chukan Brown and Julia Coney’s discussion on responsibility in wine communication. The audience will gather key takeaways on how to respect and work with social diversity within the US market. Since the US is one of the largest wine-buying markets in the world, learning to navigate and communicate about wine with respect to the diversity of that market is a priority for anyone doing business across the pond.

Attendees interested in improving the branding of their company will not be disappointed either. Within the past two years, the industry has seen a substantial growth in the use of augmented reality for wine branding. The organisation behind the first augmented reality wine experience is Tactic, an innovation studio based in San Francisco. Opening the second day of wine2wine will be Tactic’s Leading Producer, Hannah Luxenberg, a pioneer in immersive technology. During her session, she will speak on technology and storytelling, discussing how to get the best out of both.

Social media aficionados will find their crowd at Natalie Wang’s and Anne Victoire Monrozier’s sessions. If, on the one hand, Wang will discuss how Chinese social media has revolutionized marketing and sales for wines in China, on the other, blogger and communication specialist Monrozier aka Miss Vicky Wine will use her experience to shed light on the intricacies of the wine community on social media.

With the wine industry becoming increasingly more competitive, there is additional pressure for brands to stand out. Always on the hunt for significant trends, wine2wine will dedicate a special session on how design and packaging can contribute to attract consumers’ attention and make brands more distinctive. Giles Darwin, Managing Director at Denomination, will introduce attendees to the key elements of best practice in design, to help wineries understand how these can be used to positively impact on their brand; he will also outline the best working practices to get the most out of companies’ design partners.

Together with the marketing and communication track, this year’s edition of wine2wine will also include a number of other key themes such as: “Uniting New Technologies and Wine”; “Humanizing Management and Leadership”; “Understanding Export Markets”; “Integrating Market Insights into Viticulture and Oenology”; and “Demystifying Wine Economics, Finance and Law”. So far, a provisional programme for the event has been published on wine2wine’s website, along with a list of confirmed speakers.

Tickets for wine2wine are now available. Companies interested in exploring sponsorship opportunities for wine2wine can visit our website or request additional information by contacting: sponsor@wine2wine.net.

About: wine2wine is a dynamic international wine industry forum organized by Veronafiere and held annually in Verona, Italy, since 2014. wine2wine 2019 will take place on November 25th and 26th. The event is a key reference point for wine producers and wine professionals eager to develop and grow their wine business worldwide. wine2wine provides unique opportunities to share ideas on the most important issues facing the rapidly evolving wine industry and to connect with wine professionals and experts. The forum takes place over two days and features keynote sessions, seminars, and interactive workshops which aim to equip participants with practical tools to improve their business. Speakers are renowned experts in their field and among the brightest minds in the wine world from Italy and abroad. Additional information is available at http://www.wine2wine.net or by emailing info@wine2wine.net.

Hey Alexa! Play the “Oregon Wine Quiz!”

November 3, 2019 by evebushman

PORTLAND, Ore., /PRNewswire/ — Oregon is home to more than 760 wineries and 19 distinct growing areas, making it one of the largest wine-grape-producing states in the nation. It’s tough for even the biggest Oregon wine aficionados to know everything about Oregon wine. That’s why Travel Oregon created the new “Oregon Wine Quiz” for Alexa users to test their wine knowledge. Whether you’re a novice or a connoisseur, the quiz highlights some of the undiscovered facts about the Oregon wine landscape and tells the deeper story of Oregon wine.

Oregon is home to more than 760 wineries and 19 distinct growing areas. (Photo credit: Cotterell)

It’s estimated that by 2020, 50% of all searches will be voice searches. Currently 17% of American households have a smart speaker installed. By 2022, this number is anticipated to increase to 66%. The shift to voice search has already begun. The “Oregon Wine Quiz” is a way for Travel Oregon to integrate tourism marketing and voice search and stay ahead in the ever-changing media landscape.

“We need to keep evolving and expanding our content platforms if we’re going to remain relevant to our target audience,” said Mo Sherifdeen, Global Integrated Marketing Director at Travel Oregon. “We’re thrilled to be the first tourism agency in the country to experiment with distributing content through voice search. But more importantly, we’re excited to give wine enthusiasts another way to learn about Oregon wines before they head out to wine country this fall.”

To activate the quiz, simply ask Alexa to “play the Oregon wine quiz.” Users will then be asked a series of questions about Oregon wine. Depending on the answers, users will unlock one of four podcasts, featuring interviews and storytelling from some of Oregon’s most prominent wine industry professionals, including: Travel Southern Oregon, Abacela, Brooks Winery Troon Vineyards, Tuality Healthcare and Willamette Valley Vineyards.

The topics covered include:

Community winemaking
Oregon’s new varietal: Tempranillo
The Applegate Valley Wine Trail
Sustainable winemaking

This Alexa application was built by Portland-based agency, Sparkloft Media with content support from the Oregon Wine Board. Are you ready to take your Oregon wine knowledge to the next level? Take the quiz today. For more information, visit TravelOregon.com or Amazon.com.

About Travel Oregon
The Oregon Tourism Commission, dba Travel Oregon, works to enhance visitors’ experiences by providing information, resources and trip planning tools that inspire travel and consistently convey the exceptional quality of Oregon. The commission aims to improve Oregonians’ quality of life by strengthening the economic impacts of the state’s $12.3 billion tourism industry that employs more than 115,000 Oregonians. Visit industry.traveloregon.com to learn more.

Abadia Retuerta and Bazaar by José Andrés Collaborating on Epicurean Events

November 2, 2019 by evebushman

LOS ANGELES, CA;—In a four-part event from November 13-16, The Bazaar by José Andrés at SLS Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills plays host to legacy Spanish winery and estate Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine. The Bazaar by José Andrés at SLS Beverly Hills has been a destination for unique culinary experiences since its launch in 2008, and now welcomes one of Spain’s most distinctive historic properties for a series of singular events. The traditional Abadia and the contemporary Bazaar represent two sides of the Spanish gastronomical coin, coming together for a series of tastings beginning on November 13 with an invite-only Sommelier Lunch; an invite-only Wine Collector’s Dinner on November 14; and culminating on November 15 and 16 with a ticketed wine pairing menu offered at The Bazaar.

A collaboration between Chef de Cuisine Holly Jivin of The Bazaar and Executive Chef Marc Segarra of Refectorio, the Michelin-starred restaurant at Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine, the ticketed ten-course tasting menu offered on November 15 & 16 will showcase signature dishes from both restaurants, paired with Spanish wines from Abadia Retuerta. Tickets, priced at $150 per person, are available via Tock.

Dishes that will be served throughout the series include Sopa Castellana, a traditional Spanish garlic-laced soup; oysters with a radish and black olive emulsion; sausage with kale and mint; and crayfish with bread and almond soup. Wine pairings will consist of several vintages of Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine Blanco de Guarda, a mature and layered white wine made with 80% sauvignon blanc grapes as well as verdejo and a small amount of godello.

Abadia Retuerta was founded in the 12^th century as the Abbey of Santa Maria de Retuerta, once home to a monastery, and located in the fertile wine region of Sardón de Duero on the left bank of the Duoro River. The original Romanesque and Gothic structures still stand alongside modern additions including sprawling vineyards, a hotel and spa, swimming pool, and Michelin-starred restaurant, making it one of Europe’s most desirable resort wine-tourism destinations.

“From the first moment I stepped foot on the historic property of Abadia Retuerta, I was enchanted by the serene beauty melding old with new,” says Ricardo Gomez, General Manager at The Bazaar. “After months of planning amongst our teams, we’re ecstatic to bring these two renowned Spanish culinary concepts, The Bazaar and Abadia Retuerta’s Refectorio, together to celebrate both our similarities and our differences in a unique set of events at SLS Beverly Hills.”

With an exclusive group of wine collectors and sommeliers gathering to experience the largest tasting ever of Spain’s iconic Abadia Retuerta wines, the winery is embarking on its most ambitious introduction to the U.S market since its founding in 1996.

For more information on the collaborative event series at The Bazaar and to purchase tickets, please visit Tock.

About SLS Hotel, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills

After making a critically acclaimed splash with its 2008 debut, thanks to excellence in hospitality, cuisine, and design, the SLS Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills continues to define modern luxury at the crossroads of Beverly Hills and Los Angeles. Following a multimillion-dollar room renovation and with robust dining options from Culinary Director Chef José Andrés, including two Michelin Guide recognized restaurants⁠—Somni (Two Michelin Stars) and The Bazaar (Michelin Plate) ⁠—as well as three-meal lobby restaurant Tres, in-room dining and the Altitude sixth-story rooftop pool deck, the hotel was recognized by Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards as the “#1 Hotel in the World” in 2019. Additionally, Ciel Spa by Pearl offers a full suite of wellness and salon services and 30,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor function spaces include a ballroom, conference rooms, and Garden Room & Terrace with retractable skylight roof. As part of The Luxury Collection’s portfolio of world renowned hotels and resorts, SLS Beverly hills is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the new name of Marriott’s travel program. Visit www.slsbeverlyhillshotel.com for more information.

About ThinkFoodGroup and José Andrés

Founded by Chef José Andrés and his partner Rob Wilder, ThinkFoodGroup is the creative team responsible for renowned dining concepts in Washington, D.C., Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Texas, the Bahamas, and most recently in Orlando and New York City. The nearly 3 dozen restaurants share a variety of culinary experiences that span from food trucks to world-class tasting menus, including two with two Michelin stars: minibar by José Andrés in Washington, D.C., and Somni at the SLS Beverly Hills.

Twice named one of Time’s “100 Most Influential People” and awarded “Outstanding Chef” and “Humanitarian of the Year” by the James Beard Foundation and recipient of the Worlds 50 Best Icon Award, José Andrés is an internationally-recognized culinary innovator, New York Times bestselling author, educator, television personality, humanitarian and chef and owner of ThinkFoodGroup. For more information, visit www.thinkfoodgroup.com.

About Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine

Dating from 1146, the Abadía Retuerta estate is nestled on 1,730 fertile acres in the heart of Spain’s Duero wine region. It is a unique destination offering a grand travel experience that combines a luxurious hotel with award-winning wines, exceptional gastronomy, an exclusive Spa and an array of unique experiences.

Imbued with the charm and lore of a by-gone age, Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine is among the most highly rated hotels in Europe, taking guests back in time while immersing them in the comforts and luxuries of today’s most savvy hospitality. Acclaimed for its award-winning single terroir wines, Abadía Retuerta winery is among the most advanced in Europe in combining ancient wine-making traditions with cutting-edge technology and sustainability.

Among the amenities and activities: 24-hour butler service, mountain biking and horseback riding on the estate, tours of the winery, helicopter rides to view the ancient landscape from the air, and falconry displays.

The Abadía Retuerta estate is less than a two-hour drive or train ride from Madrid. For further information and reservations: reservations@ledomaine.es; Tel. +34 98 368 0368.

About Refectorio by Marc Segarra

Refectorio, the abbey’s original dining hall with a vaulted Gothic ceiling and a 17th-century fresco, today is a one-Michelin-star sanctuary of haute cuisine. A biodynamic vegetable garden adopting the sustainable techniques and methods used by the abbey’s original monk inhabitants in the 12th century provides organic produce for the estate’s restaurants, including Refectorio.