Perlis Picks: Taste The World

July 7, 2018 by Michael Perlis

Every two years, trade and media has the opportunity to “taste the world” with distributor and importer Henry Wine Group. In a large ballroom at the Westin Bonaventure filled with wine and a small section devoted to spirits [covered by Eve in a recent article] we got to sample literally hundreds [if one were so inclined] of offerings from a wide variety of domestic and international producers.

Upon entering the event, we were provided with a wine tasting glass and a 158 page book – I told you there were a lot of wines to taste! Here were some of my favorites…

Ancient Peaks – I always love the Renegade and the Oyster Ridge blends, and the 2015 and 2014 of these, respectively, were both excellent.

Andrew Murray Vineyards – Another old favorite, one of the wineries that first got me into Rhones. The 2016 Enchante did it for me today.

Dashe Cellars – They’ve expanded their fun carbonic maceration line and continue to make great Zinfandels, including my usual favorite Todd Brothers Ranch (2015 this time).

Elizabeth Spencer Winery – I wasn’t really familiar with this Mendocino based winery but getting introduced to their delicious 2016 Grenache solved that problem.

Joullian Vineyards – One might not expect great Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon from the Monterey Peninsula, but this winery in the Carmel Valley belies that notion with their 2013 ‘Sias Cuvee’ Zin and 2014 Estate Cab.

Mettler Family Vineyards – I liked all three of the wines this Lodi winery was pouring – the Estate Cabernet, the “Epicenter” Old Vine Zinfandel and especially the Estate Petite Sirah, all from the 2015 vintage.

Mundovino – This importer had a whopping 10 tables at the event. Admittedly, I tend to focus on domestic producers but I wanted to try some Argentinean Malbec. I tasted some very impressive wines from Catena at all price points, especially the 2014 Catena Zapata Alta Malbec and the 2015 Catena Zapata Argentino Malbec.

Pestoni Family Estate Winery – Another new to me winery, I enjoyed everything they poured – 2016 Rutherford Sauvignon Blanc, 2015 “1892” Field Blend and the 2013 and 2014 Howell Mtn Cabernet Sauvignons.

Saucelito Canyon Vineyards – Great Zinfandel from the Arroyo Grande Valley? You better believe it. Their 2015 Estate Zinfandel comes from a vineyard that was originally planted in 1880.

Shafer Vineyards – Shafer’s Cabernet Sauvignons are legendary and I wasn’t going to pass up a chance to taste them. Loved both the 2015 One Point Five Stag’s Leap and of course the 2013 Hillside Select Stag’s Leap as well.

Sinor-Lavallee – Bringing this list full circle, this is Ancient Peaks’ Director of Winemaking Mike Sinor’s own project. The Pinot Noirs were great but I was admittedly here for the Syrahs – the 2013 White Label – Bassi Vineyard, 2015 SLO/Estate and 2014 Black Label – Bassi Vineyard were all outstanding.

There was obviously a lot more I could have tasted [158 pages, after all] but I probably spent too much time catching up with various members of the trade who I’ve known over the years. My biggest takeaway from all this is that Henry Wine Group represents some excellent wineries. If you see their name on the label as distributor or importer, you can be assured you are getting quality, regardless of the price point.

Michael Perlis has been pursuing his passion for wine for more than 25 years. He has had the good fortune of having numerous mentors to show him the way, as well as a wonderful wife who encourages him and shares his interest. After a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting wineries and vineyards, and tasting as much wine as he possibly could, he had the amazing luck to meet Eve Bushman. Now, as Contributing Editor for Eve’s Wine 101, he does his best to bring as much information as possible about wine to Eve’s Wine 101 faithful readers. Michael is also Vice President of Eve Bushman Consulting (fka Eve’s Wine 101 Consulting) http://evebushmanconsulting.com/ and President of MCP Financial. Michael can be contacted at michaelthezinfan@aol.com or michael@evebushmanconsulting.com.

Vintage Eve Circa 5/2015: Family Winemakers, is the Hit-Maker Once Again

May 15, 2018 by evebushman

I almost skipped this year’s Family Winemakers uber-large tasting as it was being held in Pomona at the Fairplex, a two-hour round-trip drive. But then I noticed that the organizers had given the press a four hour window to taste (and recover) from about 100 wineries – each serving up two or more of their latest efforts. So…I made the trek. (If you would like to skip the coverage below you can see the story in photos here.)

Tasting Full Line Ups

Ancient Peaks – Served up some lovely wines, my favorite was the Renegade blend of Syrah, Malbec and Petit Verdot and the Oyster Ridge blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Petite Sirah.

Carlisle Winery – Eve Wine 101 VP Michael Perlis is a fan so I have to try and get my hands on these wines whenever I can, usually over our staff lunches (thank you Michael). Today I was loving their Steiner Vineyard Gruner Veltliner, “the only Gruner made in Sonoma.” From there both the 2013 Russian River Valley Zinfandels wowed me: one from the Papera Ranch and the other from Montafi Ranch.

Carol Shelton Wines – From the 2011 Sonoma County Karma Zin, Cucamonga Valley (yes, as in Rancho Cucamonga) 2013 Monga Zin, 2013 Rockpile Sonoma County and through to the 2011 Late Harvest Sonoma County…I was in love with these Zins! They also had some fine wines from their secondary label, Wild Thing, and I especially appreciated the flavor of the Rendezvous Rose.

Clos Pepe Estate – I’m a member of the winery, but since my shipments are usually Pinot Noirs I wanted to try the latest Axis Mundi wines made from grapes outside of the estate; the Rose of Mourvedre and blend (Grenache and Syrah). Glad I didn’t miss either, and I will want them in my next shipment.

Dolin Estate – I had to turn down a wine pairing dinner with Elliott Dolin as it was in Westlake Village on a weeknight – a possible three-hour round-trip trek. I wanted to make it up by tasting them at Family Winemakers. Elliott was happy to take me through his line-up and I was especially smitten with the 2012 Malibu Estate Chardonnay and every Pinot Noir, especially the 2012 Rincon Vineyard out of the Arroyo Grande Valley.

Foxen Vineyard – Starting with lovely fruit from a 2013 Chenin Blanc from the Ernesto Wickenden Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley, I also enjoyed the 2013 Chardonnay, Block UU, Bien Nacido Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley; 2013 Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley; 2013 Pinot Noir John Sebastiano Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills.

Frostwatch Vineyard and Winery – Poured and described by wine friend Michael Fraschilla I found myself totally digging every white I tried: the mostly Semillon 2013 Vice Versa, 2013 Chardonnay and their 2012 Ophira Reserve Chardonnay.

Guarachi Family Wines – I doubted that vintner Alex Guarachi would be at the table but I had to look…and was greeted instead by his latest, and very tasty, Pinot Noir: 2013 Sun Chase Vineyard from the Petaluma Gap, Sonoma Coast.

Miner Family Winery – A lovely 2013 Simpson Vineyard California Viognier tickled my fancy and 2010 The Oracle Napa Valley Bordeaux blend put me over the edge. Tasty stuff.

Pride Mountain Vineyards – A delicious 2013 Napa Valley Chardonnay was followed by a 2012 Merlot and 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, both with grapes from Napa and Sonoma Counties.

Rocca Family – Yes! I was so happy to find a new favorite Napa winery that I visited last October and even happier to discover they had new releases for me to try today! There were two Cabernet Sauvignons that were delish, but a Merlot stole the show. For some reason it make me think that even a non-Merlot fan would like it; it was ready to drink now and had very nice fruit and spice. Best Merlot at the event, IMO.

Round Pond Estate – I had visited Round Pond’s Napa tasting room in April of 2012 and at the time I was fond of the whites, today I was into the Cabernet Sauvignons. The first was a Rutherford estate and the second, a Kith and Kin, which is made from Rutherford and “neighboring appellations.”

Swanson Vineyards – Though I was hoping winemaker Chris Phelps would be there as we dined together years ago, I was equally thrilled to say hello again to his director of national sales, Shelly Eichner. I love their wines, especially the latest Alexis Cabernet Sauvignon.

Tablas Creek Vineyard – Can you ever have too many Rhônes? Never! They wowed me with every white Rhône blend, red Rhône blends and single varietals. Their 2014 Vermentino and 2012 Mourvedre were stellar.

About

Family Winemakers of California is an “organization that reflects the small producer’s point of view.” With nearly 5,300 licensed wineries in California someone needs to consistently speak for small, family wineries in the fight for more access to markets, protecting individual freedom from government over-regulation, and fostering aspirations to make the best wine. Our beginnings are humble. Family Winemakers was founded in 1990 after the wine market order extension was voted down in a true grassroots campaign. Industry growth and public policy on a myriad of issues begged for input from small producers. One man, one vote is the bedrock principle behind Family Winemakers that guides our views on legislation, regulation, litigation and business practices. We’ve spent 24 years and counting working to loosen up the post-Prohibition restrictions in California law and broaden access to domestic markets.

A list of the Pomona Participating Wineries can be downloaded here.

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

The 2016 International Chardonnay Symposium Announces Medal Winners

July 3, 2016 by evebushman

Awards were handed out in four categories and The SOMM Journal named its top sommelier

Pismo Beach, CA – The International Chardonnay Symposium, (ICS), TheChardonnaySymposium.com, the world’s foremost gathering of premium Chardonnay producers, sommeliers, trade and enthusiasts, announced the official medal winners of the 2016 International Chardonnay Symposium Wine Competition.

The ICS 2016 and The SOMM Journal selected leading sommeliers to judge the extensive double-blind tasting of Chardonnay from around the globe. The medal winners were announced at the Symposium’s Annual La Paulée Dinner and Vintner Awards Ceremony, held this year at Greengate Ranch & Vineyard in the heart of the Edna Valley AVA in mid-May.

The 2016 ICS was held in the seaside resort towns of Pismo Beach, ClassicCalifornia.com; Avila Beach, VisitAvilaBeach.com; and the Edna Valley, an area of the Highway 1 Discovery Route in San Luis Obispo County, Highway1DiscoveryRoute.com.

The 2016 International Chardonnay Symposium Wine Competition “Best” category winners are:

v Best of Show

Alpha Omega 2013 Reserve (Napa Valley)

Platinum medal

v Best Unoaked Chardonnay

Simonnet-Febvre 2014 Chablis Premier Cru “Vaillons” (Chablis)

Double Gold medal

v Best Oaked Chardonnay

Grgich Hills Estate 2013 Miljenko’s Selection (Carneros)

Double Gold medal

v SOMM Journal’s Choice

Arínzano 2010 Gran Vino White (Arínzano, Vino de Pago, Spain)

Gold medal

The Best of Show award was especially meaningful for vintner Robin Baggett, the proprietor of Alpha Omega in Napa Valley and Tolosa Winery in San Luis Obispo. Baggett said, “Having graduated from Cal Poly and raised by family in San Luis Obispo, then starting my wine career in Edna Valley at Tolosa Winery, it’s an honor to return and receive such a prestigious award for our Napa Valley efforts.”

The SOMM Journal and the ICS named Alicia Ajolo of taste wine-beer-kitchen in Long Beach, California, as the Symposium’s 2016 Top Sommelier. Ajolo was one of the judges at the day-long wine competition where she determined the origin of the most of wines during a double-blind tasting.

Platinum Medal Winners

Alpha Omega 2013 Reserve (Napa Valley)

Hearst Ranch Winery 2014 Proprietor’s Reserve (Central Coast)

RUSACK Vineyards 2014 Santa Maria Valley Reserve (Santa Maria Valley)

Double Gold Medal Winners

ADELAIDA 2014 Estate, (Adelaida District)

Bernardus 2013 Sierra Mar (Santa Lucia Highlands)

Clos Pepe 2013 Estate Barrel Fermented (Sta. Rita Hills)

CRU Wine Co. 2014 Montage (Monterey)

El Pistolero 2015 “Cold Steel” (Santa Lucia Highlands)

Grgich Hills Estate 2013 Miljenko’s Selection (Carneros)

Simonnet-Febvre 2014 Chablis Premier Cru “Vaillons” (Chablis)

Wente Vineyards 2014 The Nth Degree (Livermore Valley)

Windemere 2014 MacGregor Vineyard (Central Coast)

Gold Medal Winners

Alpha Omega 2013 Chardonnay (Napa Valley)

Arínzano 2010 Gran Vino White (Arínzano, Vino de Pago, Spain)

Baileyana 2014 Firepeak (Edna Valley)

Chartron et Trébuchet 2012 Meursault (Meursault)

Cotiere 2014 Talley Rincon (Arroyo Grande Valley)

DeLoach Vineyard 2013 Estate (Russian River)

Edna Valley Vineyard 2014 (Central Coast)

Edna Valley Vineyard 2014 Winemaker Series Heritage (Santa Lucia Highlands)

Landmark Vineyards 2014 Overlook (Sonoma County)

Louis Latour 2010 Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru (Corton-Charlemagne)

Nottingham Cellars 2014 1846 by Nottingham Cellars (Arroyo Seco)

Sextant Wines 2014 Central Coast (Central Coast)

Sinor-LaVallee 2014 White Label-Bassi Vineyard (Santa Lucia Highlands)

St. Francis Winery 2014 Behler (Sonoma Valley)

Tolosa Winery 2014 569 (Central Coast)

Tolosa Winery 2014 Dijon (Central Coast)

Silver Medal Winners

ADELAIDA 2014 HMR Vineyard (Adelaida District)

Buena Vista Winery 2013 Private Reserve (Sonoma County)

Capensis 2013 (Western Cape, South Africa)

Chartron et Trébuchet 2013 Rully Premier Cru Les Grésigny (Rully)

Clos Pepe 2013 Estate (Sta. Rita Hills)

CRU Wine Co. 2014 Unoaked (Arroyo Seco)

Domaine L’Arjolle 2015 Côtes de Thongue (Côtes de Thongue)

Harmony Cellars 2014 (Central Coast)

Hearst Ranch Winery 2014 Glacier Ridge (Santa Lucia Highlands)

Jean-Charles Boisset 2013 JCB #81 (Sonoma Coast)

Presqu’ile, 2013 Presqu’ile Vineyard (Santa Maria Valley)

Talley Vineyards 2014 Estate (Arroyo Grande Valley)

Trefethen 2014 (Oak Knoll District)

True Myth 2014 Paragon Estate (Edna Valley)

About The International Chardonnay Symposium

The International Chardonnay Symposium attracts winemakers, sommeliers, media, trade, wine enthusiasts and tastemakers from across the globe to enjoy and study the world’s favorite grape. When the discussion ends, there’s plenty of time for exploring nearby Central Coast wineries, as well as the hosting seaside resort towns of Pismo Beach and Avila Beach that offer downtown winetasting rooms, pristine beaches, surfing and kayaking, hiking and biking trails, farm-to-table and seaport-inspired cuisine, boutique shopping, and more. The International Chardonnay Symposium is sponsored by Pismo Beach Conference & Visitors Bureau, Avila Beach Tourism Alliance, California Highway 1 Discovery Route, Visit San Luis Obispo County, The Tasting Panel Magazine, The SOMM Journal, Wine Enthusiast Magazine, 805 Living, Touring & Tasting, Greengate Ranch & Vineyard, Riedel, Farm Credit West, San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, and Yelp.

About Pismo Beach, Avila Beach, & Highway 1 Discovery Route of SLO County

San Luis Obispo County’s Pismo Beach, Avila Beach and the Highway 1 Discovery Route destination towns are located on California’s famous Central Coast, halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. With miles of pristine Pacific coastline, enjoy great weather, a plethora of outdoor activities, rich wild life and nature preserves, downtown wine tasting rooms, and the neighboring world class wine producing regions of the Edna Valley, Arroyo Grande Valley, Santa Maria Valley and Paso Robles. For information on the wide variety of lodging choices, accommodating every budget and lifestyle, visit ClassicCalifornia.com, VisitAvilaBeach.com, and Highway1DiscoveryRoute.com.

Perlis Picks: Hospice du Rhone, PART III

June 4, 2016 by evebushman

In spite of the great seminars and meals around town, the most exciting parts of the weekend for me were still the big Opening and Closing Tastings. As mentioned previously, the tastings featured 145 tasting tables at which to taste the wide variety of what the Rhone wines have to offer. With an understandably heavy-Central Coast representation, there were wineries from all over California as well as from Oregon and Washington. Internationally, wineries from Australia and Spain attended and of course there was a huge French contingent.

The Opening Tasting focused on wines from 2011 and prior while the Closing Tasting had the same wineries pouring current [2012 and younger] as well as wines that had not yet been released.

While I probably spent too much time chatting with many of the participants and attendees [but then that’s a big part of these kind of events], these were some of the wineries I tasted and enjoyed the most, either at the Opening Tasting, Closing Tasting or both, with just a few notes, as I’ve praised many of these wineries before.

Alta Colina [Paso Robles, CA] – wonderful vertical of Toasted Slope Syrah and the new Grenache has a finish that goes on forever.

AmByth Estate [Templeton, CA] – enjoyed the Grenache Blanc with skin contact that made it an “orange wine”. I’ve had mixed encounters with this technique, but this one was very tasty.

Anglim Winery [Paso Robles, CA] – loved the 10+ year old Roussanne poured by Steve Anglim.

Caliza Winery [Paso Robles, CA]

Cass Winery [Paso Robles, CA]

Clavo Cellars [Templeton, CA]

Clos de Centenaires [Gallician, France]

Clos Solene [Paso Robles, CA] – maybe the most elegant wines coming out of Paso.

Copia Vineyards [Paso Robles, CA] – a new one for me. Delicious, powerful wines.

Crux Winery [Geyserville, CA]

Epoch Estate Wines [Templeton, CA] – always a great lineup.

Law Estate Wines [Paso Robles, CA] – looking forward to next year’s release of a 100% Mourvedre.

Mattina Fiore Wines [Arroyo Grande, CA]

McPrice Myers [Paso Robles, CA]

Mollydooker Wines [McLaren Vale, SA AU] – loved the 2011 Carnival of Love, which had a now local winemaker involved in the production, Jeffrey Strekas of the next winery, ONX.

ONX Wines [Paso Robles, CA] – known for their untraditional blends [which are always awesome], I especially enjoyed the Black Orchid 100% Petite Sirah.

Paix Sur Terre [Paso Robles, CA] – a Mourvedre specialist doing a great job.

Saxum Vineyards [Paso Robles, CA] – you know the importance of the event when Justin Smith is pouring old and new wines. The busiest table until he ran out. Delicious.

Tercero Wines [Los Olivos, CA]

Turley Wine Cellars [Templeton, CA] – known for excellent Zinfandels, I’ve often felt that great as Turley’s Zins are, they might even be surpassed by their Petite Syrahs. A vertical of Hayne PS helped to support this notion. Wow. And note the spelling because, well…Turley.

Turtle Rock Vineyards [Paso Robles, CA] – Don Burns is assistant winemaker at Saxum and he makes great wines under his own label as well.

Two Shepherds [Windsor, CA] – maybe my palate is getting more refined [nah] but I’ve come to really appreciate William Allen’s restrained winemaking style.

Wrath [Soledad, CA]

The Closing Tasting was not the end of the festivities, as there was a Farewell BBQ to be enjoyed. Frank Ostini of Hitching Post was in charge of the food with entertainment provided by Monte Mills and the Lucky Horseshoe Band. Wine was abundant on all the tables, and it was fun to chat with some of the winemakers in attendance, such as Carl Bowker of Caliza, Neil Roberts of Clavo Cellars and Steve Gower of Crux, among others.

Before closing, I’d like to mention that the HdR person of the year for 2016 is Sam Beall. Sam’s Blackberry Farm has hosted the Tennessee HdR event for the last seven years. His recent untimely passing saddened all of us who knew him or just knew of him.

Kudos to all involved in this event, most especially to John Alban [Alban Vineyards], founder of the event, as well as Vicki Carroll, President of Hospice du Rhone and Faith Wells of Faith Wells Communications who served as Consulting Director of HdR. Not to mention all of the workers and volunteers. Great job, everybody!

2016 International Chardonnay Symposium Celebrates the World’s Favorite Grape

January 7, 2016 by evebushman

California’s Central Coast hosts a global celebration of Chardonnay

December 9, 2015 (Pismo Beach, CA) –The world’s foremost gathering of Chardonnay producers, The International Chardonnay Symposium (TheChardonnaySymposium.com), will feature a line-up of top global Chardonnay winemakers, sommeliers, media, trade, foodies and wine enthusiasts during this year’s events, May 12-14, 2016. The Symposium will take place in the classic California beach towns of Pismo Beach and Avila Beach with a grand tasting at the picturesque Greengate Ranch & Vineyard (GreengateWeddings.com) in Edna Valley wine country.

A sampling of panel discussions include:

Wente Clone Comparative Tasting
What’s Oak Got to Do With It?
Pairing Chardonnay With Artisanal Cheese
Digging In: An International Look at the Effects of Terroir

Additional events include a Vintners’ Wine Tech Symposium, Sommelier Chardonnay Challenge, Grand Tasting, La Paulée Dinner and Awards Ceremony and new to this year’s event, the Pét-Nat, Sparkling Wine and Oysters Gala. Early-bird tickets to the Saturday Grand Tasting are available and can be purchased by visiting TheChardonnaySymposium.com.

Complimentary tickets for qualified media to the three-day event can be requested by emailing TCS@ParkerSanpei.com.

About The International Chardonnay Symposium

The International Chardonnay Symposium attracts winemakers, sommeliers, media, trade, foodies, wine enthusiasts and tastemakers from across the globe to enjoy and study the world’s favorite grape. When the discussion ends, there’s plenty of time for exploring nearby Central Coast wineries as well as the hosting seaside resort towns of Pismo Beach and Avila Beach that offer downtown winetasting rooms, pristine beaches, surfing and kayaking, hiking and biking trails, farm-to-table and seaport-inspired cuisine, boutique shopping, and more. The International Chardonnay Symposium is sponsored by The Tasting Panel Magazine, The SOMM Journal, Pismo Beach Conference & Visitors Bureau, Avila Beach Tourism Alliance, and the California Highway 1 Discovery Route. For more information, visit TheChardonnaySymposium.com.

About Pismo Beach, Avila Beach, & Highway 1 Discovery Route of SLO County

San Luis Obispo County’s Pismo Beach, Avila Beach and the Highway 1 Discovery Route destination towns are located on California’s famous Central Coast, halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. With miles of pristine Pacific coastline, enjoy great weather, a plethora of outdoor activities, rich wild life and nature preserves, downtown wine tasting rooms, and the neighboring world class wine producing regions of the Edna Valley, Avila Valley, Arroyo Grande Valley, Santa Maria Valley and Paso Robles. For information on the wide variety of lodging choices, accommodating every budget and lifestyle, visit Classiccalifornia.com, VisitAvilaBeach.com and Highway1DiscoveryRoute.com.

OJAI WINE FESTIVAL Does it Right, by Michael Perlis

July 18, 2015 by evebushman

What makes a good wine festival? A great selection of wine, of course, but also a great location. And what turns a good festival into a great one? Great organization to keep things running smoothly.

For the second day of our Southern California wine-soaked weekend, my wife Karen and I recently attended the 29^th Annual Ojai Wine Festival. Now, I’m not sure how long Angela May and her team have been in charge of the event (I know it’s been at least the last three years since we’ve been attending) but they definitely have this wine festival thing down.

This is a big festival, taking over much of the Lake Casitas Recreation Area in Ojai. Right on the shore of Lake Casitas, actually. Along with a wide range of central coast wineries [from Ventura to Paso Robles], the event also includes great food and beer, as well as two bands to while away a warm pre-summer afternoon.

One of the things I really love about this festival is the event guide. It’s a great place for local merchants to advertise. And attendees can use it as a guide for their day as well as to follow up with wineries after the event is over. Not all festivals do this, but they all should.

Speaking of something people should do, festival attendees should take advantage of VIP tickets when they are available. Many events do offer this perk for an added cost, and in most cases the extra cost is well worth it.

The Ojai Wine Festival is one of those that offers a limited number of VIP Tickets, and the price is well worth it. Not only do you get early access [beat the crowds!], but you start the festival with a glass of Barefoot Bubbly to get you in the mood. And of course, there is the VIP section of the festival, with great seating by the lake and access to the VIP wines and food, as well as beers from Stella Artois [and spirits too].

As usual, this report is primarily about the wineries. And also as usual, there was no way for me to taste all of them. But, of those I tasted, these were some of my favorites:

First, two wineries that were real eye-openers for me…

Ascension Cellars from Paso Robles was pouring in both the VIP section and the main tasting area. The wines in the VIP section were definitely VIP-worthy. All their wines were outstanding. People who know me know that I am mostly a Rhone/Zin guy, but I have to say their Soul Shaker Bordeaux blend really rocked and was my favorite wine of the day. Their Mayhem Syrah was right behind this one.

Falcone Family Winery, also in the VIP section and also pouring some outstanding selections from Paso Robles along with a great Chardonnay from the Santa Maria Valley. They do something pretty gutsy with their highest end wine, producing a non-vintage 2012/2013 blend of Petite Sirah, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon called Annate. Knocked my socks off and came in a very close 2^nd for my favorite wine of the events.

Other standouts…

Bonny Doon Vineyards from Santa Cruz continues to make tasty wines, including the latest version of Clos de Gilroy (Central Coast Grenache).

Kenneth Volk Vineyards makes a wide variety of wines, some of which come from unusual grape varietals, such as the delicious Touriga Nacional from Paso Robles.

Toucan Wines, based in Arroyo Grande, is known for its estate Zinfandel and Petite Sirah, which I loved. But my favorite is always Doug Timewell’s Carignane that he makes with grapes from old vines in Contra Costa County. Sadly, Doug is getting out of the wine business soon, and it will be our loss.

The Ventura County Winery Association had their own little corner of the festival. Pouring were Cantara Cellars, Panaro Brothers Winery, Plan B Wine Cellars, Magnavino Cellars and Sunland Vintage Winery. Lots of good wines; standouts for me were the Zinfandel and Cabernet Franc from Cantara and the Grenache Rose and the Syrah from Plan B.

As I wrap up, I need to add one more element to a great festival – the attendees. The crowd is about as friendly as it gets and we have made friends there who we look forward to seeing annually, maybe sooner.

So, that’s it. Great wine, beer, food, entertainment and people all on the shores of Lake Casitas. Not sure it could get any better.

Wine Enthusiast Moderator & Panelists Announced By The 5th Annual Chardonnay Symposium

April 28, 2014 by evebushman

The 5^th Annual Chardonnay Symposium (TCS) hosted by Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa in Pismo Beach, from May 16-18, 2014, today announced their newly appointed panelmoderator as Matt Kettmann, contributing editor for Wine Enthusiast, and 2014 TCS Seminar Discussion Panel of notable industry experts to include Brian Talley of Talley Vineyards, Larry Brooks of Tolosa Winery, AJ Fairbanks of Hyde de Villaine, and Chris Hammel of Bien Nacido.

Matt Kettmann, replaces Steve Heimoff, as a contributing editor for Wine Enthusiast Magazine, reviewing and reporting on wines from the Central and South Coasts of California.

“Throughout the industry, Kettman is considered to be quite skillful, confident, vocal and thoughtful,” says Katie Bottrell, Director of The Chardonnay Symposium. “He is just as well suited for an esoteric audience of winemakers as he is for an audience of Chardonnay enthusiasts, so, we are very happy to have him as TCS moderator this year. Add that to the spectrum of experience and area of expertise on this panel, and it’ going to be a very interesting discussion this year.”

Additionally, he remains the senior editor of The Santa Barbara Independent. Kettmann has written about wine for the New York Times, Time Magazine, Smithsonian, Sunset and Wine Spectator and has organized regional food and wine events in Santa Barbara, a well as, moderated the Paso Robles CAB Collective Seminar at the California Wine Festival 2013.

Steve Heimoff has joined Jackson Family Wines as their new Director of Wine Communications & Education. “We are very grateful to Steve for all the support he has given TCS, including how instrumental he was been in developing this year’s panel discussion topic,” remarked Terence Concannon, Co-Director of the Chardonnay Symposium. “We wish him all the best and think Jackson Family Wines is very fortunate to have him on their team.”

The 2014 TCS seminar includes tastings of unique Chardonnays featuring a range of styles from top winemakers and a plated lunch. Seating is limited and $95 per person.

2014 TCS Seminar Panel Topic of Discussion will be:

Maintaining Terroir Expression in a Changing World: Is climate change forcing the evolution of Chardonnay? Can vintners preserve traditional terroir expressions using viticulture and winemaking techniques? Or do those interventionist techniques themselves compromise terroir?

2014 TCS Participants include:

Au Bon Climat – Byron – Calera Wine Company – Calstar Cellars – Cambria Wines – Center of Effort – Chamisal Vineyards – Domaine Laroche– Hyde de Villaine – Jack Creek Cellars –Kumeu River Wines – Kenneth Volk Vineyards – Laetitia – Landmark Vineyard & Winery – Liquid Farm – Migration from Duckhorn – Miner Family Winery – Niven Family Wine Estates – Patz & Hall – Paul Lato Wines – Presqu’ile Wines – Qupe Wines – Ramey Wine Cellars –Sbagria Family Vineyards – Solomon Hills Vineyards – Talley Vineyards –Thomas Fogarty Winery – Tolosa Winery – Wente Vineyards – Wrath Wines

2014 TCS Schedule of Events:

Grand Chardonnay Dinner May 16, 2014, Friday (7pm) –Lido’s talented Executive Chefs prepare a Wine-Country-Inspired Dinner paired with world-class Chardonnay wines. A portion of each ticket sold will be donated to the Cal Poly Wine & Viticulture Program.Limited seating; advanced purchase required; $150.00 per guest.

TCS Seminar Panel Discussion May 17,2014, Saturday (9:30am-12:30pm) – This year’s TCS seminar, Maintaining Terroir Expression in a Changing World, includes tastings of unique Chardonnays featuring a range of styles from top winemakers and a plated lunch. Seating is limited and $95 per person.

Grand Chardonnay Tasting & Silent Auction May 17,2014, Saturday (1pm-4pm; 12:30pm VIP/Media Pass admission) – Artfully crafted fare for the event provided by Lido, Morro Bay Oyster Company,and Fromagerie Sophie.Proceeds from the Silent Auction will be donated to the Cal Poly Wine & Viticulture Program; $80 per guest.

Share Your Chard Party May 17, Saturday (6pm) – Tolosa Winery hosts a pauleé style celebration. Guests will enjoy an evening on the patio overlooking Tolosa’s breathtaking vineyards, indulging in fare paired by Lido at Dolphin Bay while sipping their favorite Chardonnay wines that they are encouraged to bring to share, and also, includes special bottlings and featured wines provided by attending producers. There will be dancing under the stars from local band Hayburnerand round trip shuttle service from Dolphin Bay to Tolosa Winery available. Advance purchase required; $65 per guest.

May 18, 2014, Sunday – Many Central Coast wineries will offer ancillary promotions and events in conjunction with TCS to be announced.

For more information on TCS, please visit thechardonnaysymposium.com. Also, join TCS on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

About The Chardonnay Symposium (TCS):

For the past 5 years, The Chardonnay Symposium has brought together Chardonnay producers, winemakers, sommeliers, and wine journalists, as well as both food and wine enthusiasts from all over the world, for an in-depth exploration of the world’s favorite grape and its impact on viniculture, tastemakers, and the market. TCS is the country’s premier event for education and celebration of Chardonnay wines, where participants can taste, explore, learn about, and appreciate this popular grape varietal. The 2014 TCS is hosted by Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa in Pismo Beach, offering stunning coastal views and just minutes from downtown San Luis Obispo, and California’s Central California wine producing regions of the Edna Valley, Arroyo Grande Valley, Santa Maria Valley and Paso Robles. Events include a Grand Chardonnay Tasting, focused educational seminar with representatives from top Chardonnay wineries, and a sumptuous multi-course Chardonnay dinner. In conjunction with TCS, many Central Coast wineries will offer special promotions and events to complete the experience. For more information on TCS, visit thechardonnaysymposium.comor email info@thechardonnaysymposium.com. Also, join TCS on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

About the Dolphin Bay Spa & Resort:

Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa, a member of the exclusive Preferred Boutique Hotels, is located in Shell Beach (Pismo Beach), midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles in San Luis Obispo County. Boutique wineries, Hearst Castle, world class golf, wildlife sanctuaries, historic missions and antique shops are within easy reach, making Dolphin Bay an ideal home base for day touring, and a wonderful place to retreat to at day’s end. Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa is ideal for romantic retreats or family vacations. With 62 spacious, one bedroom and two bedroom suites featuring full gourmet kitchens, Lido at Dolphin Bay, The Spa at Dolphin Bay,and an array of activities, guests have all the comforts of home amidst the elegance of a Pismo Beach Hotel. The Dolphin Bay Spa & Resort has earned recognition as one of the Best Hotels in California by the prestigious national publication, U.S. News & World Report; it was among the top 3% of the 3,535 luxury hotels evaluated. For more information, visit thedolphinbay.com. Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa, 2727 Shell Beach Road, Pismo Beach, CA 93449; 805-773-4300.

Indulging in the Arroyo Grande Valley Wine Trail: A sumptuous back-roads day trip across Southern San Luis Obispo County

July 8, 2013 by evebushman

Paso Robles and Santa Barbara garner plenty of attention when it comes to wine, but insiders know the Arroyo Grande Valley as an up-and-coming hot spot that tourists often miss. Equal parts down-home charm and polished sophistication, the Arroyo Grande Valley Wine Trail is a fantastic getaway for anyone seeking a change of pace…and some seriously good wine.

Spanish for “big creek,” the village of Arroyo Grande stretches along Branch Street just east of the 101 Freeway, and is a terrific jumping-off point for a day of exploring and tasting. Grab coffee and a muffin at bustling Café Andreini, or for something heartier, hit up F.M. McLintock’s along the creek. Then explore the boutiques of the village, including elegant home store, Willis & Bennett, kitchen shop and Le Creuset dealer, Vera’s Gourmet, and Buttons ‘N Bows for children’s clothing, toys and gifts.

For the first wine tasting of the day, head out to Talley Vineyards, about five miles east of the village through lush farmland. The Talley tasting room is situated on a slight hill overlooking their Rincon Vineyard, and surrounded by inviting lawns and picnic areas. The Talleys have been a respected farming family in this valley for over 25 years, and their wine demonstrates why: plush Pinot Noir, complex cuvées and Chardonnay that is the stuff of legends. Tastings include wines from Talley Vineyards, Bishop’s Peak, and Mano Tinta, the family’s charitable wine brand. Estate tours are also available for a fee.

Next up? Lunch. Drive back into the village of Arroyo Grande, and, if it’s a Saturday, pick up provisions for a picnic at the farmer’s market (12-2:30pm). Otherwise, stop in at the Branch Street Deli for fresh sandwiches, wraps and salads on your way to picturesque Laetitia Vineyard & Winery. This beloved hilltop spot just alongside Highway 101 south of Arroyo Grande commands some of the best views on the Central Coast, including rolling hills, the glittering Pacific Ocean, and miles of vineyards in between. Laetitia’s welcoming tasting room samples a tempting selection of wines from both the estate winery and their high-end NADIA brand, sourced from the sought-after Santa Barbara Highlands Vineyard. Known best for their classic sparkling wines and coastal-influenced Pinot Noir, Laetitia offers a bocce ball court, vineyard walking trail, and comfortable picnic area for tucking into a sumptuous lunch.

For the last wine tasting stop, try Phantom Rivers Winery, back in downtown Arroyo Grande. Phantom Rivers Winemaker John Thunen uses fruit from coveted sources like Larner Vineyard and Wolff Vineyards to make award-winning Rhône-varietal, Pinot, Chardonnay and Zinfandel wines. Each of these is poured in the converted Victorian house that serves as Phantom Rivers’ attractive tasting room.

If dinner is on your mind, walk across the street to the stylish Rooster Creek Tavern, whose rustic-hip ambiance pairs nicely with everything from pub food like nachos and wings to more elegant fare like bacon-wrapped filet mignon and artisan pizzas. And if you still have the bandwidth for another glass of wine, take a few more steps up the street to Gather Wine Bar. This favorite spot is known for its carefully-curated wine list, which includes bottles from the Central Coast’s best and brightest up-and-coming winemakers. House-made breads, cheeses and charcuterie are also available, and live music is often on the bill.

About Laetitia Vineyard & Winery
Since 1982, the Laetitia Vineyard & Winery has produced elegant wines that champion the exceptional character and diversity of the Arroyo Grande Valley AVA. Originally founded by an established French Champagne house, the Laetitia estate carries on in the longstanding traditions of Burgundy and Champagne with a focus on small-lot Pinot Noir and sparkling wines. Valuing legacy, balance, innovation, and sustainable practices from harvest to glass, the Laetitia team works meticulously from vintage to vintage to ensure that every bottle of Laetitia wine is as expressive as the land from which it originates. For more information about Laetitia Vineyard & Winery please call 805-481-1772, 1-888-809-VINE, or visit www.LaetitiaWine.com. Laetitia Vineyard & Winery is located at 453 Laetitia Vineyard Drive, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420.