Will You Be Left Off the Roof?

August 24, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

The fourth Cocktails on the Roof is headed our way fast: September 7! We have new vendors joining our existing vendors and a new out-of-the-box idea – a Wine on the Roof table – added to what you have told us you love: DJ MAV from SOS Entertainment and a HUGE dance floor, both cozy private lounges and large public lounges, single spirit vendors and your favorite SCV restaurants sharing cocktail and food pairings, trees to create that “Manhattan” roof top feel and lights to…light it all up just for you!

Hosted by the WiSH Education Foundation, Eve Bushman of Eve’s Wine 101 and Eve Bushman Consulting and Marlee Lauffer, president, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation. A committee of worker bees and many volunteers make the event possible – and remarkable. Also, know that Cocktails on the Roof is a non-profit event that raises money to support over 23k Hart District students in grades 7-12 in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Participants at press time include Salt Creek Grille, Wolf Creek Restaurant and Brewery, Dulce Vida Tequila, Mammoth Coffee Roasting (Espresso Martini), JFC International (sake-based cocktails), Alchemy Valencia, Marston’s Valencia, An Indian Affaire, LA Scotch Club (the only event the club participates in), Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar, Pomp & Whimsy Gin Liqueur, Vines Restaurant and Bar, Willow Creek Distillery (formerly the Distillery at Opolo), The Newhall Press Room, (Moscow) Mule 2.0, Nealie’s Skillet, Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ, Honu Coffee, The Local Pub and Grill, Smokehouse on Main, Impex Beverages (spirit brands), La Cocina Bar and Grill, Claim Jumper Restaurant and Saloon, Figenza Fig Vodka, Sweet Beams Ice Cream Truck, Sweet T’s Treats and Nothing Bundt Cakes.

This year, for the first time and due to high demand, we will be adding a Wine on the Roof table to our Cocktails on the Roof layout. It’s our latest out-of-the-box idea from Eve Bushman! Our generous co-host from Wine on the Roof, local winemaker and winery owner Steve Lemley, will be talking about all of the exciting wines being produced in his facility and showcasing a few of the potential wines that will be part of the Spring 2019 event.

“This WiSH signature event is a perfect opportunity for our community to come together to party with a purpose!” said Amy Daniels, Executive Director, Wish Education Foundation. “This year our focus is STEAM, with an emphasis on the ARTS. Please help us make a difference right in the classroom by buying a ticket to the event, and consider getting your friends together for your very own private lounge!”

We welcome The Magazine of Santa Clarita, Elite Magazine, Littler, Oasis Associates, Andy Gump, SOS Entertainment, The Signal, SCVTV, Burrtec, Brightview Tree Company as current sponsors. Contact Amy Daniels at wish@hartdistrict.org for more sponsorship or lounge rental information.

“As WiSH’s flagship fundraiser, ‘Cocktails’ brings together a unique outdoors rooftop vibe with the chance to sample signature beverages and tastings for a unique local experience” began Richard Cohn, Chair, WiSH Education Foundation. “Coming together as a community for a memorable night out while supporting our schools is a win-win.”

Everyone is a VIP, with tickets only $85 for all you can eat and drink, or come as a Designated Driver and enjoy mocktails and food for $65. All tickets at the door are $95. Either way, let us know about your excitement with #COTR18 on all your social media posts. Tickets –> www.cocktailsontheroofscv.org. Follow the Discussion tab on our Facebook event page for teasers à https://www.facebook.com/events/451575408569251/?active_tab=discussion

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 15k 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. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Carmel Part One: Bavarian Themes and Hospitality in Carmel Begin and End at the Original Hofsas House Hotel (Vintage Eve Circa 6/2014)

August 21, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Of course I’ve been to Carmel before. I may have even noticed the prevalence of Dutch doors (doors split in half so you can swing open at the top) and Bavarian themed buildings. But I needed to ask Carrie Theis, granddaughter of founder Donna Hofsas of the Hofsas House Hotel, a few things about it:

Was Hofsas House following an established existing theme in selecting Bavarian architecture for its buildings 60 years ago?

Carmel, the “Village in the Forrest by the Sea”, has always had a European Village feel. (Carmel will be celebrating its 100th year in 2016.) It was established by many Bohemian type residents, and Mr. Fred Hofsas (pronounced “hoff-says”) had Bavarian ancestry.

Fred and his wife Donna had built a cottage to start and traveled to Bavaria before the hotel’s expansion. Their cottage home is now part of the property as guest cottages. (Hofsas House is not the oldest hotel in Carmel; that would be the Pine Inn.) No hotel is allowed to build over two stories above street level and lots are small in keeping with the European cottage theme throughout Carmel.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is only 1-square mile large, making it ideal for walking everywhere: (The Wine Walk being first on my list, as well as visiting shops, restaurants, galleries and bars.)

Why Bavaria? Were many of the residents back then from Germany?

Fred and Donna Hofsas have ties to Bavaria but Carmel’s founders migrated here after the San Francisco earthquake. Many writers and artists also found a home in Carmel, giving the town a very Bohemian feel. Each home is unique, there are no tract homes to be found. Flowers are year round, and air conditioning isn’t needed.

Could I see more of the murals and paintings by artist Maxine Albro? Hofsas House is the only hotel with these accents. I asked to see room 47 to see the special headboard by Albro and the valence, walls, end tables and crown molding by local artist Christine Sorenson. I was amazed at the different furnishings and offerings in the rooms. See my story of the unique art here in my Facebook album.

Adding the Carmel-by-the-Sea Wine Walk to the existing landscape of beautiful surf, unique cottage homes, restaurants, shops and art galleries…works for me. Do people enjoy taking it all in without driving?

Carrie said that guests enjoy walking everywhere and that’s another thing that makes Carmel different. (In the past I had stayed in Monterey while my husband Eddie was attending the Naval Post Graduate School there. Now I think that one day in Cannery Row was enough. It’s a metropolis, Carmel is not.)

“Carmel is a place to get away from technology and reconnect,” Carrie said. “We are very low-key. And as Carmel faces west we have nightly sunsets” to offer.

After my stay these key points about the hotel stuck with me and make me want to return: Family-run and family-friendly. Bavarian-inspired. Ocean view from large private balconies. Wine waiting in the room after check-in. Fireplace turns on with the flip of a switch. A complete S’Mores, map to beach fire pits and firewood package. Original one-of-a-kind art. Loved my Dutch door. Walking distance to everything. French roast coffee in my room. Pets welcome. Large rooms, each with unique styling. A feeling of history. FREE Wi-Fi, continental breakfast with local baked goods and parking.

About Hofsas House

Hofsas House 4th Ave. & San Carlos St. Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921

831-624-2745 (Direct)/831-624-0159 (Fax) Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HofsasHouseHotel http://www.hofsashouse.com/

The Hofsas House Hotel is a boutique family-owned inn with 38 uniquely decorated, spacious rooms, many with ocean views overlooking the pines in the village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Dutch doors appoint each room allowing our guests to enjoy the fresh ocean air. Our guests watch glorious sunsets over the Pacific Ocean from the privacy of the inn’s decks or rooms. Some rooms and most suites have fireplaces, private balconies, wet bars or kitchens…(more)

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years. She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a guest judge for the L.A. International Wine Competition and Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits that may be answered in a future column. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Cass Winery Dinner: Ted Plemons + 5 Courses + 5 Wines

August 17, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

It’s been a few years since the wild and crazy Ted Plemons entertained Cass Winery lovers on the patio of Salt Creek Grille, and I for one won’t be missing it. Not only will Ted, co-partner at the winery, be there he will be introducing no less than FIVE of their latest vintages to pair with FIVE courses created by Chef Ignacio Munoz and Pastry Chef Kristina Waggoner.

The Invitation

L to R: Greg Amsler, Chef Ignacio “Nacho” Munoz, Pastry Chef Kristina Waggoner, Marketing Dir. Jennifer Chadwick

Join Ted Plemons of Cass Winery, as well as Executive Chef Ignacio Munoz and Pastry Chef Kristina Waggoner as they take you on a 5-wine + 5-course menu only at the Salt Creek Grille Valencia Patio on September 12^th at 6:30pm. The price is $95 per person plus tax and 22% gratuity. Reserve by telephoning the restaurant at 661-222-9999.

The Menu

With Winemaker Notes and Awards

First course

Tai Shrimp with Coconut Mango Verde Sauce

Paired with-Cass 2017 Viognier

Gold Medal – 2018 Denver International Wine Competition
Winemaking: Aiming to preserve the intense fruit and aromatics of the variety, this Viognier was fermented and aged in 100% stainless steel. Hand-picked in the early morning, the cold grapes were pressed within moments after coming off the vine. Following juice settling, a long, cold fermentation commenced. Malolactic fermentation was inhibited to preserve acidity, keeping the wine fresh and crisp.

Second Course

Crab Bouquet Salad

Paired with 2016 Rockin’ One Blanc

90 points, Gold Medal – 2018 Orange County Fair Commercial Wine Competition

Winemaking: Looking to bring an added dimension to the ripe fruit of Roussanne and the texture of Marsanne, the 2016 Rockin’ One was fermented and aged for 10 months in seasoned French oak barrels. Hand-picked in the early morning, the cold grapes were pressed within moments after coming off the vine. The long, slow fermentation helped maintain crucial aromatics, while occasional lees stirring helped lend texture and structure to the wine. Unlike Cass’s other white wines, the 2016 Rockin’ One underwent a partial malolactic fermentation.

Third Course

Almond Crusted Stuffed Chicken with Scalloped Sweet Potato Ring

Paired with 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaking: Cabernet Sauvignon comprises the largest planted acreage at Cass, thus we have the ability to choose fruit from a variety of sites, soils, and clones across the vineyard. Picked in early September, the grapes were fermented into 5-ton open top fermenters and pumped over multiple times per day to achieve maximum extraction, which was necessary to match the ripe flavors of the vintage. Aged for 22 months in French oak.

Fourth Course

Red Chimichurri Hanger Steak with Vegetable Skewer and Peppercorn White Cheddar Soufflé

Paired with 2014 Backbone Syrah

92 points – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

Gold Medal – 2017 San Francisco International Wine Competition

Gold Medal – 2017 Orange County Fair Commercial Wine Competition

Gold Medal – 2017 Sommelier Challenge International Wine & Spirits Competition

Gold Medal – 2018 Central Coast Wine Competition

Winemaking: The grapes were fermented into 5-ton open top fermenters and pumped over multiple times per day to achieve maximum extraction, which was necessary to match the ripe flavors of the vintage. Aged for 22 months in French and American oak.

Fifth Course

Triple Chocolate Blackberry Hazelnut Crème Brûlée

Paired with 2013 Dessert Syrah

Gold Medal, 93 points – 2017 San Francisco International Wine Competition
Notes: Produced from ultra-ripe Syrah from our estate vineyard, our 2013 Dessert Wine is massive and rich, with flavors and aromatics that remind us all of wintertime in Paso Robles. Warm notes of crushed rose petal, dried raspberry, orange-almond liqueur, potpourri, juniper berry, and cinnamon sticks fill the nose. The sticky palate is full of rich fruit, with caramel-coated raisin, candied orange, warm brown spice, and grated chili chocolate flavors on a backbone of well structured tannins that carry through on an endless (and we mean endless) finish.

The Fine Print

Chefs Munoz and Waggoner have created this menu together and both will be in attendance that night – as time allows they may be able to visit with us on the patio.

Date: September 12^th

Private Dining on the Salt Creek Grille Patio

$95 a person (plus tax + gratuity)
Reservations: 661-222-9999

24415 Town Center Drive #115
Valencia, CA 91355

Vintage Eve Circa 6/2015: Living the Vida LoCa Via Lodi

August 14, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

The #LAWineWriters struck again en masse for a recent tasting and lesson, this time on the Lodi winemaking region:

Camron King and Craig Ledbetter were on hand to tell us all about the wineries and vineyards in LoCa, aka the wines of Lodi. Camron is the director of the Lodi Winegrape Commission, and Craig is a partner at VinoFarms, and helped developed the region’s benchmark 3rd-party certified sustainability program.

Introduction

Camron, to get us up to speed, gave us an overview of the Lodi region and then led us through the tasting. Maybe three of our group of 12 #LAWineWriters had visited Lodi. Camron said Lodi is directly east of the San Francisco Bay, giving them a “beautiful region” for wine grape growing due to the pacific breezes. Lodi does have warm degree-days in summer time and during the growing period, but the delta breezes provide a 40 – 45 degree cooling change and that coolness develops great acidity in the fruit.

Lodi History

They have been growing grapes in Lodi since the 1850s. Over 100 different wine varietals, from Albariño to Zinfandel, including old and new world wines, and all are “expressing quite nicely.” Now they have over 85 wineries and of those 65 having tasting rooms, making the growth perfect for wine tourism. Many wineries are small, boutique and direct-to-consumer. Michael David Winery, with its 7 Deadly Zin, is their biggest commercial winery.

With wine production in every U.S. state many of these states get their grapes from Lodi. Leading with many different varietals, Lodi helps others meet the demand for wine.

The longevity of the famous old vines in Lodi are due to the sandy soil, and because of that soil they don’t have the pests that other grape growing regions deal with. And according to our hosts, Zinfandel loves sandy soils. Though “the flagship variety” in Lodi is Zinfandel – and they are the world’s leading producer of Zinfandel, and produce about 40% for the state – they have wine varietals from all over the world.

Many vines are over 100 year old. They have one of the oldest, 132 years old, the Bechthold Vineyard, (vineyard of the year designate in 2014) which produces Cinsault. Bechthold isn’t the only Lodi winery to win a recent award, Delicato Vineyard is the winery of the year for 2014.

Also in 2014 “The Ledbetter family, which owns and operates Lodi-based Vino Farms, received the California Association of Winegrape Growers’ Grower of the Year Award…” more.

Lodi’s famous Zinfandel, and other grapes, may be picked at a higher brix level, which will translate to higher alcohol. And across the board, the majority of the wines are priced up to about $30.

A Word about Water

Homes use more wine than vines do. Though producing more food now then in past years they are using less water too. In a near joint quote Camron and Craig said, “This is a health food product, relaxes us and minimizes conflict – at times…it’s the wine, not the cheese or the almond, people talk about.”

The Ledbetter Family

Craig Ledbetter is a third generation wine grape grower, with zero association with any of the wines we were set to taste. He is interested in selling the region as a whole. In 1972 Craig’s grandfather, along with two partners, moved to Lodi to start farming wine grapes. Vino Farms now farms 16,000 acres, and is still a family operation with members living in different counties (they farm in 8) all over California.

Their goal is to improve the reputation of “the valley” for being too hot. It may get up to the low 90s during the day but it dips down to 50s in the night. Lodi growers know they can grow high quality wines with these conditions. Stags Leap in Napa has a hotter climate than Lodi, Craig said, but they “don’t compete with Napa.”

Town of Lodi

They have a beautiful downtown area, made up of cobblestone streets with plenty of shady trees. The city crest is a grape cluster, the buses are called the GrapeLine and the shopping center is The Vineyards. Population is 60,000 with most in the wine industry. The tasting rooms are considered “quaint” as family members man most. Lodi is considered to be a very philanthropic community that is very “tied together” and vested in the future.

Tasting

Aromas and flavors separated by ;

2014 LangeTwins Sauvignon Blanc (89 WE)

Bright green apples, buttery caramel, Meyer lemon; full and viscous, lemon zest, refreshing, crushed pineapple.

2013 Harney Lane Albariño

Sweet Hawaiian pineapple, fresh apricot, cut pear with a hint of anise; the same lovely fruit, nice medium acid, long finish. Well done. There are lots of Albariño wines in the restaurant and tasting room menus in Lodi according to our hosts.

2013 Bokisch Vineyard Vista Luna Verdelho

Candied red apple, kiwi, lemon-lime, cling peaches; not a sweet palate, more of a welcoming tang followed by balanced citrus and tropical fruit. This would be nice with a cool seafood salad.

2012 Bokisch Vineyard Tempranillo

Plum, cigar, sautéed mushroom, blueberry; dark fruit, dusty, dry, tannic. Can I have my New York steak now? Well done, wine that is.

2012 M2 Wines Soucie Vineyard Zinfandel (Old Vines from 1916)

Blueberry and blackberry jams, milk and dark chocolate, a hint of mint; very balanced, a perfect marriage of fruit and spice. I’d love this in a chocolate pairing.

2013 St. Amant Marian’s Vineyard Zinfandel (Old vines from 1902)

Heavy dusty dark fruit, black olive, black peppercorns, can’t wait to taste; chewy spicy fruit, nice and tannic, want steak with this one too.

Learn more and plan your visit: http://www.lodiwine.com

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years. She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a guest judge for the L.A. International Wine Competition. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits that may be answered in a future column. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Limerick Lane + Salt Creek Grille = a Fun Preview! The Main Event is 8/16!

August 10, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Was pretty amazed, yes by the superb fruit and balance in the Rhônes and Zinfandels from Limerick Lane, and by the amazing auction items that had been donated so far to this particular Boy and Girls Club of SCV fundraiser, but equal to all that (for me) was a food pairing menu by Salt Creek Grille catering and Chef Tamra Levine.

Photo by Carl Kanowsky.

So, opposite of what I normally do – share my tasting notes on the fabulous wines first – I want to share the menu. Again you may ask why? This time I’ll tell you: Chef Tamra did the pairing based on the winery tasting notes, and created dishes she herself had never created before. Again you may ask how? She did what I would do – if I could cook – and incorporated the hints of the fruits and spices from the wines into her dishes. These are the Hors d’oeuvres, my notes are in parenthesis:

Mini Punjabi Grilled Cheese Panini (Mango chutney is in there!)

French Seafood Cassoulet (We didn’t sample but it sounded amazing as Cassoulet is traditionally made with beef.)

Old World Spiced Grilled Chicken/Vegetable Fritter/Pomegranate Glaze (Will you be able to find those same pomegranate notes in the wine?)

Provencal Short Ribs/Sautéed Gnocchi (We didn’t sample this one so you have to let me know how it is!)

Wine Country French Toast/Zinfandel Rosemary Sauce/Oven Roasted Grapes (Don’t care what this was paired with, just wanted to take it home!)

The Wines

Watching the SCVTV video of our preview, Carl Kanowsky, who has organized this event annually with his wife Terry, explains that “Jake (Bilbro) introduces each wine” that will be poured by Salt Creek staff for the guests and “you don’t have to fight with other people to get up to the really good stuff. It’s all going to be there for you.” Ann Marie Bjorkman, President of the Boys and Girls Club commented, “It’s nice and intimate – and limited to 75 people.” Here’s a peek:

2017 Rose of Grenache and Syrah

94 points Wine Enthusiast, reportedly the highest score the magazine has ever awarded to a Rose.

With aromas of grapefruit, mango, peach, shale, banana and strawberry, followed by the same fruit flavors on the mouth. Light and smooth, as well as a medium acidity, and long finish.

2016 “Hail Mary” Grenache and Syrah blend

93+ Robert Parker

93 Wine Enthusiast

Terry Kanowsky commented on the “delightful bouquet” that included black cherry, blackberry, crushed leaves, earth and sage. On the mouth we got the same black fruit, medium tannin, smoke, cigar and a long finish – a “huge back palate” according to Chef Levine, I had to agree.

2016 “1910” Zinfandel (The 1910 denotes the year the vineyard was first planted.)

96+ Robert Parker

95 Wine Enthusiast

Flowery, spicy and bold fruit on the nose; then a lovely amount of black fruit, spice and drying qualities in the mouth.

2016 Russian River Estate Zinfandel

92 Robert Parker

93 Wine Enthusiast

With red, blue and black fruit aromas, as well as cracked black pepper Mike Bjorkman called a “bit of pepper” on the nose; then in the mouth it was big, spicy and bold with an extra long finish.

2015 “1023” Zinfandel

93 Robert Parker

95 Wine Spectator

Interesting hard candy on the nose, then plums, milk chocolate and forest floor. In the mouth it was dark, spicy and dry. Love a wine that has the aromas to pull you in.

2015 “1910” Zinfandel

95 Robert Parker

91 Wine Spectator

Aromas of blueberry jam, earth, dusty and zero heat on the nose (all of these Zins showed no alcohol burn) while in the mouth we got a nice sweet, peppery, and dark fruit – all in perfect balance.

Exclusive Auction Items (available only that evening)

Two one-day Park Hopper Passes to Disneyland/California Adventure.

Two tickets to a Los Angeles Kings game in November 2018.

Framed, autographed photo of Dustin Brown and Anze Kopitar with Certificates of Authenticity.

Dinner for two with Limerick Lane wine at Salt Creek Grille before the Kings game; limo to Kings game.

Private tour, tasting and lunch at Limerick Lane and Jake Bilbro: Jake will coordinate with the winning bidder to create an irreplaceable “Limerick Lane Experience.” Lodging for one night in Sonoma County. Tour and tasting the following day at two of Jake’s best friends wineries: Arista and Mauritson. Arista is known as one of California’s top producers of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and Mauritson’s 7 generations of farming in the Dry Creek valley make for an unparalleled experience tasting their allocated Zinfandels and Cabernet’s. (This lot requires at least eight weeks advance reservation with Jake and is subject to his availability and activities at Limerick Lane.)

Chef Michelle Bustillos will provide a Cooking Lesson in your home, with Limerick Lane Wine Pairing, for six people.

Tickets and Info

Date: Thursday, August 16, 2018 at 6:30 p.m. for

Salt Creek Grille
24415 Town Center Drive, Valencia

Please join Jake Bilbro of Sonoma County’s Limerick Lane in a tasting of select wines from the winery’s collection. Well-known wine critic Robert Parker says of Limerick, “If you haven’t caught onto the magic that is emerging from Limerick Lane, it’s about time. Impressive heights of quality.”

Ticket link –> http://www.scvbgc.org/

Vintage Eve Circa 6/2015: California Pizza Kitchen – Reboot!

August 7, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Kind of excited…the restaurant I grew up with, California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) has had a remodel…well…not exactly just a remodel.

Met by Susan Halstead, the General Manager of our local Valencia CPK, the first thing she told me was that people that now walk in the door don’t recognize that they’re in a CPK if they haven’t been to the Valencia location in the last two months.

Susan turned me over to Cole Brocato, bartender and trainer, who has been here at our local CPK for 9 years. Cole said that they were focusing more on California inspired fare and less on pizza alone. Fresh ingredients, like California fruits and vegetables, are now more emphasized.

Full Cocktail Program

In providing “unique spirited cocktails” we had to try the Blueberry Ginger Smash – refreshing, tangy, reminded me of a whiskey Buck plus fruit – and the California Roots – avocado colors the drink, while mint and agave sour takes center stage in this unique cocktail.

The California Crush reminded Cole of traditional Valencia flavors, and we enjoyed the citrus and mint flavors that made me think of a white wine Sangria – only better. Our teen had the Fresh Strawberry Mango Cooler – a nice virgin drink that was both sweet and light.

These cocktails are new at CPK Valencia and are only available in the remodeled stores. Cole said that eventually all of the restaurants will be re-done. And you can get all the classic cocktails, just like the BBQ chicken pizza, too.

The cocktail recipes, Cole said, are unique to CPK. Yes, they can make a Lemon Drop but they can also make a cocktail with Domaine de Canton Ginger liqueur or St. Germain Elderflower.

Cole said, “Local citrus in cocktails, California wines; we make it fresh, trendy, and organic when we can.”

Taste the Unique

With the new rollout, and as they have locations all over U.S., they “want visitors to be wowed on what California Pizza Kitchen is about.”

Don’t be concerned that the pizzas are now listed on a long “side bar” of the menu, your favorites, like BBQ Chicken, Thai Chicken, Hawaiian, etc., are still there. But you will also find, under “seasonally inspired” menu items, a Maine Lobster Flatbread (cool lobster, loved the dill, great with the California Roots cocktail) Roasted Garlic Chicken (super mist and flavorful) with Seasonal Vegetables, Ribeye (Another moist and “never frozen” with great marbling to give great flavor, liked the peppery spice and butter topped on this one, and Pinot Noir salt), California Fields Salad and Tricolore Salad Pizza.

Under “main plates” – this is the “middle section and where it’s really at” Cole said – the “Halibut is never farmed, always line caught, cooked on a cedar plank and that keeps it moist.” And it WAS! Delicious, great medley of spices, definitely would order again. And though we were stuffed, Ed couldn’t resist having one more bite before we wrapped up our leftovers.

Lunch Duos on the menu are geared to foodies that want quality and watch how much they are eating. Small Cravers fit that bill too, and have more a gastro pub like items. All the cheese, goat and cow, is pasteurized, Cole added. Originally guests had several menus, now it’s all in one plus a beverage menu, which is more standard.

“You’re a pizza place, why do you have this steak on the menu?” Cole says people sometimes ask and he tells them to go ahead, “have the steak”, and then they get it.

Final Touches

We sampled the seasonal-only-always-sells-out Strawberry Shortcake made with sweet biscuit, with a surprise touch of candied lemon zest glaze sprinkled over homemade whipped cream. The decadently rich Butter Cake is made with a sliver of cheesecake, warm and covered in ice cream and whipped cream; something Cole says people skip appetizers to save room for. The S’mores dessert is served with a jumbo graham, dark chocolate chunks, milk chocolate pudding and torched marshmallows – a sticky gooey all-consuming delightful mess.

Some of the restaurants build the bar around the kitchen as a showcase. We did enjoy sitting at the bar, it was definitely the center of the action.

All menus have different pizzas pictured on the cover, and according to Cole, the servers try to hand guests at the same table different ones – nice touch!

Cole added that they hire their staff based on them being the right person and not on having to have the two years of service experience. Our teen thought that was great.

Finally, when we glanced around the room completely sated and packed up leftovers we noticed both managers serving guests, people looking happy, and maybe some room for more.

Facebook album: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10205601315099626.1073741918.1455706632&type=1&l=89fce8e12e

CPK-Bridgeport Marketplace

24061 Newhall Ranch Road

Valencia, CA 91354

661-259-2082

www.cpk.com/locations/bridgeport-marketplace

For the complete menu, visit www.cpk.com/reimagined.

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years. She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a guest judge for the L.A. International Wine Competition. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits that may be answered in a future column. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Can you Find Happy Hours in Santa Clarita from SCVHappyHour.com?

August 7, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

For those of you searching this site for our annual local Happy Hour article, we gave that up in 2017 because there is a website dedicated to all of the SCV Happy Hours in place, and we’re thrilled their doing all the work. Well, one special entrepreneur is, meet Kyle Swick.

Our story begins

True Story – I was in-between jobs and still wanted to have a Pint and a Bite, but on a budget. I searched the Internet but could not find anything related to Happy Hours. Hence, SCVHappyHour.com I love Santa Clarita and have lived here for 30 years.

I wanted to create a Happy HOUR Website for my city and it’s residents. SCV Happy Hour is your only resource for the best Happy Hours in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Remember to please tell the bartender or manager you saw them on SCV Happy Hour.

Locations to Pick From:

· CANYON COUNTRY

· CASTAIC LAKE

· NEWHALL

· SAUGUS

· STEVENSON RANCH

· VALENCIA

SCV Happy Hour is not affiliated with any of the businesses listed on this website. As specials may change, please call the restaurant or check their website before you rely on the information posted here.

https://www.scvhappyhour.com/

https://www.facebook.com/scvhappyhour/

https://www.instagram.com/scvhappyhour/

Email Kyle Swick: scvhh15@gmail.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, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email

The Winners of the 2018 Global Wine Awards, Nine Judges (including yours truly) Select Best in Show and Highest Awards Winners

August 3, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Las Vegas, Nev. – The inaugural 2018 Global Wine Awards was hosted June 18- 20 at the Tropicana Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The competition featured nine world class judges with a panel of the finest palates including, Master Sommeliers, Masters of Wine, wine educators and industry experts.

Bottom Row: Cami Sisk MS, Chairwoman of the Judges Panel Deborah Parker Wong, Eve Bushman, Stacie Hunt. Top Row: Danny Ronen, Paul Ellis, Cassandra Brown, David Glancy MS, Roger Bohmrich MW

L to R Top Row: Danny Ronen, Paul Ellis, Cassandra Brown, David Glancy MS, Roger Bohmrich MW. L to R Bottom Row: Cami Sisk MS, Chairwoman of the Judges Panel Deborah Parker Wong, Eve Bushman, Stacie Hunt.

The 3-day judging process for the diverse and specific wine categories began with a 100% blind tasting preliminary round, with the best wines advancing to the Sweepstakes Rounds, where the Double Gold and The Best of Show Categories were awarded.

Featured Award Winning Wines: ( For a complete list of all the Gold, Silver and Bronze winners, visit GlobalWineAwards.co/)

• Overall Best in Show and Best in Show, Red Wine:
o Martellotto Wine Productions, 2016 Il Cappocia Riserva (Barrel Aged)

• The Best in Show, White Wine:
o Frank Family Vineyards, Late Harvest Chardonnay

“Our expert judges are pleased to announce the 2018 Global Wine Awards winners who all represent excellence in winemaking skills and superior presentation from all around the world. The wines were judged based on varietal expression, uniqueness in character and approachability” said Eddie Rivkin, CEO/Executive Director of Global Wine Awards. “Las Vegas is an entertainment destination known globally for its vibrant wine culture, its fine-dining restaurants and celebrity chefs. It was the perfect paring to our first annual event.” he said.

Double Gold Winners (Listed by: Winery, Wine Name, Wine Type, Vintage, Score):

Martellotto Wine Productions, Martellotto, Il Capoccia Riserva, 2016, 97
Frank Family Vineyards, Frank Family Vineyards, Late Harvest Chardonnay, NV, 97
Wines Of Greece, VOURVOUKELI ESTATE MALAGOUZIA, Malagouzia, 2017, 97

2Hawk Vineyard & Winery, 2Hawk Winery, Viognier, 2016, 96
Penrose Hill, Cantharos, Grenache, 2014, 96
Cellardoor Winery, Cellardoor Winery, Petite Sirah, 2013, 96
Wines of Greece, HELEXO WINERY RETSINA White, RETSINA white, 2016, 96The prestigious judges, encompassing years of expertise, passion and credibility in the wine industry, featured: Deborah Parker Wong, Global Wine Chairwoman and Editor for SOMM Journal and The Tasting; David Glancy, Master Sommelier & CWE, Founder & CEO of San Francisco Wine School, the largest wine school in the USA; Cameron Sisk, Master Sommelier, with thirty-five years in restaurants; Cassandra M. Brown, Certified Sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and Certified Specialist of Wine from the Society of Wine Educators; Stacie Hunt, Certified Silver Pin Sommelier /North American Sommelier Association and Vice President of the Board of the National Association of Wine Retailers; Paul R. Ellis, Sommelier at Rao’s, Caesars Palace; Eve Bushman, 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); Roger Bohmrich, Master of Wine, independent consultant, writer, and educator; and Dänny Ronen, educator in spirit and cocktail development.
During the awards competition, all the wines, in their respective and specific sub-categories, were sampled together as flights, carefully evaluated in all aspects, and scored by each one of the skilled judges. All winners received industry acknowledgment and a distinguished medal of recognition.

The scoring ranges are: Bronze – 80-84
Silver – 85-89
Gold – 90-95

Double Gold – 96-100

About Global Wine Awards & Global Spirits Awards

Eddie Rivkin CEO/Executive Director of Global Wine Awards and Global Spirits Awards hosts the events from the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information and a complete list of judges bios, photos and winners, visit the website at www.GlobalWineAwards.co. Follow on Instagram at Globalwineawardslv.

MARTHA STEWART WINE & FOOD EXPERIENCE

August 2, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

A savory Wine & Food Experience series offering an American culinary tour for fans and connoisseurs alike who can indulge in this savory exploration showcasing fine food, wine, beer and spirits from local and national chefs and mixologists. The Las Vegas event, Martha Stewart Wine & Food Experience presented by USA TODAY NETWORK & MGM Resorts International, is part of a 12-city culinary event series throughout 2018.

The Martha Stewart Experience features a tented entrance with a “Celebrating with Martha” theme showcasing Martha-designed products. Guests can get creative with Martha’s Celebrations line at Michaels; snap a selfie at a café table with Martha in the backdrop; explore the lifestyle leader’s newest lines from Macy’s tabletop; grab a glimpse of a cool ‘utensil chandelier;’ and explore kitchen gear, books, Martha’s QVC product line, and more.

Martha Stewart said: “Join me in October with USA TODAY NETWORK and MGM Resorts International for the first Las Vegas Wine & Food Experience. We’re presenting a rare gathering of chefs, purveyors and restaurateurs for a memorable Saturday afternoon to discover, taste and celebrate the sheer enjoyment of fabulous food and drink.”

The Grand Tasting is central to the Wine & Food Experience. This vast food and beverage sampling experience features chefs, restaurateurs and gourmet leaders in branded booth settings who will greet guests as they enjoy wine, craft beer, spirits and special bites. The Grand Tasting also spotlights a schedule of wine and beverage seminars and cooking demonstrations featuring Martha Stewart and other chefs.

MGM Resorts International restaurants, along with local Las Vegas chef talent, will be among those featured at the event. The culinary extravagance of Las Vegas is anticipated to be on full display given the city’s exciting dining scene and elevated epicurean entertainment offerings.

TICKETS

Tickets will be available at WineandFood.USATODAY.com/LasVegas/ or at www.ticketmaster.com
Tickets include the Grand Tasting ($85); VIP ($120) for guests to enjoy a lounge and early event access; and a limited Martha Stewart master class ticket ($250).

In Las Vegas, Stewart will present a cooking demonstration in the Grand Tasting that all guests can enjoy. For the upgraded “Martha” ticket, patrons can learn directly from the lifestyle leader during a coveted seminar experience in which she’ll share her favorite tips and practices for celebrated occasions.

SPONSORSHIPS

USA TODAY NETWORK reaches more than 120 million unique monthly users, as well as culinary leaders, through award-winning content and unique experiences. A crowd of 4,000 is expected in Las Vegas to enjoy the event with dozens of restaurants and top chefs from the world-renowned Vegas culinary community. For those interested in sponsorship opportunities, contact Craig Kaplan, ckaplan@usatoday.com; Mike O’Donnell, mikeod@r-entertainment.com; or Sabrina Philpot, sphilpot@mgmresorts.com.

Colorful Scenes of #WFE Tour: https://youtu.be/DxRwC_fSl8s

Social Media: #LasVegasWFE, #WFE, Facebook/Instagram @usatodaywinefood, Twitter @usatwfe

About USA TODAY NETWORK. USA TODAY NETWORK, part of Gannett Co, Inc. (NYSE: GCI), is the largest local-to-national media organization in the country, powered by our award-winning newsrooms and marketing solutions business. With deep roots in local communities spanning the U.S. with more than 100 brands, plus USA TODAY, we engage more than 110 million people every month through a diverse portfolio of multi-platform content offerings and experiences. For more information, visit www.Gannett.com

About MGM Resorts International. MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) is an S&P 500® global entertainment company with national and international locations featuring best-in-class hotels and casinos, state-of-the-art meetings and conference spaces, incredible live and theatrical entertainment experiences, and an extensive array of restaurant, nightlife and retail offerings. MGM Resorts creates immersive, iconic experiences through its suite of Las Vegas-inspired brands. The MGM Resorts portfolio encompasses 28 unique hotel offerings including some of the most recognizable resort brands in the industry. Expanding throughout the U.S. and around the world, the company in 2018 opened MGM COTAI in Macau and the first Bellagio-branded hotel in Shanghai. It also is developing MGM Springfield in Massachusetts. The 78,000 global employees of MGM Resorts are proud of their company for being recognized as one of FORTUNE® Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies®. For more information visit us at www.mgmresorts.com.

About Martha Stewart. Martha Stewart is an Emmy Award-winning television show host, entrepreneur, bestselling author of 90 books, and America’s most trusted lifestyle expert and teacher reaching 100 million consumers monthly across media and merchandising platforms. Her myriad products for everyday living – from cooking to crafting to healthy living, even pet care — are found in more than 70 million households with a growing retail presence in thousands of locations. In 2015, Martha merged her company with Sequential Brands Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: SQBG), and today serves as Chief Creative Officer and a Member of the Board. Sequential, a global brand management company with a portfolio of renowned consumer names, generates more than $4 billion annually in global retail sales. Visit MarthaStewart.com and SequentialBrandsGroup.com

About Sequential Brands Group, Inc. Sequential Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SQBG) owns, promotes, markets, and licenses a portfolio of consumer brands in the fashion, active, and home categories, which includes the Martha Stewart media and merchandising properties. Sequential seeks to ensure that its brands continue to thrive and grow by employing strong brand management, design and marketing teams. Sequential has licensed and intends to license its brands in a variety of consumer categories to retailers, wholesalers and distributors in the United States and around the world. For more information, please visit Sequential’s website at: www.sequentialbrandsgroup.com To inquire about licensing opportunities, please email: newbusiness@sbg-ny.com

About R Entertainment. R Entertainment is an experiential marketing and business development company, producing 200 dates a year, such as the USA TODAY NETWORK Wine & Food Experience, Kentucky Derby Fillies & Lilies Party, Final Four Sponsors Ball, National Taco Tour, Super Bowl events, PGA Waste Management Phoenix Open, Arizona Diamondbacks Evening on the Diamond, The Good Life Festivals by Shea Homes, among others. R Entertainment also books concert entertainment nationwide. Visit www.R-Entertainment.com

Vintage Eve Circa 7/2015: Tasting Treana

July 31, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Paso Robles’ Hope Family Wines has several wines in its cache: Liberty School, Cando, Troublemaker, Hope and Treana. This wouldn’t be the first time I’ve tried Treana, but it would be the first for me to try three from their newly released 2013 vintage. Check it out:

Tasting

Aromas and flavors separated by ;

2013 Chardonnay, Central Coast

100% Chardonnay, 14.5% alcohol

14k gold color, followed by a nose full of orange zest, tangerine, lemon preserves and lightly toasted oak; on the mouth I got orange slices, mango, lemon, white pepper, rye toast, with low acid and a medium finish. Would be nice with grilled halibut in a lemon pepper sauce, or cooked on a cedar plank. 87 Eve pts.

2013 White Wine, Central Coast

50% Marsanne, 50% Viognier, 14.5% alcohol

The color of a pale yellow rose with aromas that reminded me of pears, peaches, honey and hard lemon candy; flavors of pears in light syrup, peach, green apple, with medium acid and a rich viscosity. Would pair well with a fatty/oily fish, hard cheeses or a fruit tart. 88 Eve pts.

2013 Treana Red, Paso Robles

75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Syrah, 15% alcohol

Dark blackberry-colored and full aromas of that same blackberry followed in quick procession by cigar smoke, black licorice, black olive, stems and dust; silky, dusty, peppery, blackberry jam held together with firm tannins. Try it with filet and grilled mushrooms, BBQ ribs, a meat lover’s pizza and German chocolate cake. 89 Eve pts.

About the Hope Family

The Hope family has been farming in Paso Robles for more than 30 years. When they arrived in this barely discovered region, they planted apples and grapes. Little did they know that the rolling, oak-studded terrain of Paso Robles would one day become viticultural terroir of significance and one of the top winegrowing regions for quality red wine within the Central Coast.

Gone are the apple orchards. Today, the Hopes cultivate mature vineyards of the varieties best suited to their area including Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, Mourvedre and Grenache. Vine density has increased and each vine is asked to produce very little fruit. The terroir of this domain expresses itself in its unique regional character. Regardless of the varieties planted, the expression of Paso Robles is displayed in the glass with spice, licorice and berry in the nose, soft textures and silky tannins on the palate.

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years. She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a guest judge for the L.A. International Wine Competition. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits that may be answered in a future column. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com