Alcoholics…yes, we’re tackling this today (Circa 12/2009)

December 23, 2016 by evebushman

Alcoholics. The dirty word.

My photo taken on the set of The Wine Down show.

I’m watched for symptoms…comes with the territory. With questions like, “How do you stay so slim and drink so much?” or “You’re always at an event…how do you get home?” and my personal favorite, “I can only have one martini…you can have two?”

Okay. I’m not one of those wine writer’s that uses terms justifying or glorifying my drinking habits. I would list those blog names but the tags might bring them to me in wine-riddled-rage. So I won’t go there. But I will answer the questions.

I don’t “drink so much”. I taste wine. If I LIKE IT I might have a glass. And a wine glass is 4 ounces for me. I routinely share a bottle with my husband. But not a second. So that is 2 to 2 1/2 glasses down my gullet. So staying slim, like for everyone else, is because I eat, and drink, in moderation.

How I get home from events? Whether I have a driver or not, watch me. I stop drinking wine at least an hour or more before I plan on leaving. I drink only water at that time. Before that I have a glass of water for every glass of wine. So, you may see me getting comfortable in my surroundings, but if you know me well enough, you’ll know I’m pretty comfortable in any surroundings.

(I also pour out. I’ll use the bucket at the NEXT table at an event. Or your yard or planter. I do this with any wine I don’t care for. But the reason I use the next table, and the same reason this section is in parenthesis, is because I don’t want you to know it. If you poured me the wine, brought the wine or made the wine…well…I just don’t want to offend you. I have way too many wine friends, and want to keep them all.)

I can have two martinis in the course of an evening. Same rules apply, for Vodka, Scotch, Tequila as it does for wine, at an event or any time. I have YEARS of resistance to alcohol built up in me so “Don’t try this at home” unless you know yourself.

I don’t drink every night. I don’t drink in the day time unless it’s a day event.

Now to the tough love part. I’ve been followed, on Facebook and in real life, by my fair share of alchies. I HATE it. I’m not here to glorify anyone’s addiction, so if you are drunk around me don’t expect me to stay around you. And, please, don’t expect me NOT to tell you if you’ve had too much.

Drunks are ugly, unpleasant and irresponsible. Don’t join my wine group on Facebook if you have an alcohol problem and please don’t follow me into the bathroom, put your face inches from mine, raise a finger to point into my chest, and tell me what you think of me or the wine. Not interested. And I’m sober enough to want to leave events when this happens.

So, there it is, Happy Holidays from your wine bud. And, please, you can (still) tell me when you’ve had to much. I’ll send you home…in a cab. And our Happy Holidays will be happy for everyone else on the road too.

Eve’s Wine 101: Wine Tasting Trips

December 26, 2014 by evebushman

Sure, you can just get in the car and go to wine country and wing it, or you can plan it in advance. Let’s explore why planning will save you time and money, while giving you the most from your experience:

Buzz, Architecture, Ratings, Distance and Tasting Fees

This is the biggest category. And I fervently believe that all of these variables need to be taken into account during the planning.

If I’ve heard about a winery from more than one person, and it may have some wine ratings from reviewers I follow to back it up, it’s going to make by list because of the buzz.

If I’ve seen photos of a welcoming tasting room, picnic grounds and generally amazing architecture I’m going to want to see it for myself. Choose at least one winery that just appeals to you. And of course, if it has a buzz too you are more than set.

When mapping out a trip make sure you look at the distance from one winery to another. I had a trip planned for me by a wine country representative that didn’t and I found myself zig zagging all over the place when it would have been easier, and I would have had more time at each place, if a Google map was consulted. (Also note that if you hire a limousine or other service provider to map your trip, they may have an agenda if they are paid by wineries. Make sure your that service knows your trip plans in advance.)

Tasting fees differ from winery to winery, and area to area. The fees can also be found on the winery website, as well as the conditions such as waiving the fee if a bottle is purchased.

Reservations

I am a firm believer in checking a winery website to see if reservations are needed, if there is more than one kind of tasting/touring experience, and what is included if there is a fee. Once you book your reservation it’s an added plus if their concierge tells you how much time to allow. As a writer I allow 2 hours per stop, you may only need up to 90 minutes, but don’t forget to add in travel time…and time to eat.

If you select some wineries that don’t require reservations, be mindful not to arrive less than one hour before their closing time. Even if you think you can barrel through a tasting in a short period of time, it doesn’t give the winery the time it deserves.

Tours

I’ve been on plenty of tours, and after 20 years I’d have to say little surprises me. With that said, I’ve seen some (to name a very few) incredible barrel rooms (Del Dotto, Schramsberg), architectural tours (Castello di Amorosa, Quintessa), grounds (Terra Valentine, Halter Ranch), views (DAOU and Law Estate), dining (Justin), wine tasting bars that are also open at night (Pure Cru, Maisonry), art galleries (Hess), even wineries with kitchens and classrooms (Hall). I suggest you get your fill before heading straight to the tasting room.

Eat and Hydrate

Most tasting rooms will offer you water throughout your tasting; if not then ask for it. The only way to keep from getting inebriated is to constantly hydrate and to eat. I usually keep bottled water and pretzels in the car so I’m never in a pinch. Hydrating also helps prevent “palate fatigue” so you can keep tasting longer.

If you have mapped out your trip, try to select a winery with a deli or cheese case and picnic grounds around your lunch hour.

Behavior

The number one thing here is to please pour out and/or spit into the buckets on the tasting bar. A guest that drinks the last drop of every pour is ill experienced in tasting. You’re not going wine drinking; you’re on a wine tasting adventure. You will get the most out of it if you mimic the behavior of other, more seasoned tasters. That’s how I learned.

Talk to your server about the wine, winery practices, or just ask how their day is going. Like anyone working in the service industry this can sometimes be a thankless job. It’s not like you’re even leaving them a tip! And I promise that you will get the most out of your tasting experience if you engage with the people trying to share their pride and joy with you.

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

SWIRL IN THE HOLIDAYS! POPULAR WINE CLUB (Eve Approved!) OFFERS TOP BARGAINS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

November 26, 2014 by evebushman

The Original Wine of the Month Club® Offers a One-Stop Wine Shoppe Featuring Popular Holiday Varietals Paired with Delectable Delights

From Eve: I drove to Wine of the Month club’s Monrovia office, met with owner Paul Kalemkiarian, Jr. and did a fun video with him about a year ago. There are good reasons that this wine club is still around: the model he uses and his expertise is admirable. I suggest you check it out:

MONROVIA, CALIF. – With 2014 holiday season at our doorstep, wine lovers are turning to the Original Wine of the Month Club® for their holiday gift giving ideasfrom gift baskets to the latest wine gadgets. With its unique, hand-picked selections of robust and flavorful wines paired with savory gourmet snacks and sinfully sweet accoutrements, convenient online ordering, free shipping and gift-giving ideas starting at $24.99, holiday shoppers are only a click or call away from the perfect gift for family members, friends and clients. To view our Top Holiday Gift-Giving Wine Bargains, please visit www.wineofthemonthclub.com.

For the gift that keeps giving throughout the yearwine lovers are discovering the added value and instant gratification they provide friends and relatives with Original Wine of the Month Club® Gift Memberships, which start at $139.99 for a four-month membership and features two bottles per delivery of exquisite wine and our signature monthly newsletter.

The Original Wine of the Month Club® Gift Membership is a gift that keeps giving throughout the year! Order a one-year membership for your friends and loved ones and they can receive a wine delivery every three monthsyour recipient will be reminded of your generosity with each flavorful wine selection! With free shipping for every order, each package is gift-wrapped and comes with a personalized, hand-written greeting. www.wineofthemonthclub.com

A perfect gift for wine connoisseurs or the wine novice, each holiday gift package features an attractive case or basket filled with gourmet goodies and distinctive delights.

2014 Holiday Gift Ideas Under $100

Here Come the Holidays-Filled with fun and joy, our red basket filled with everything red is sure to tame the rising crowd. Use as a corporate gift or as a hostess gift for your favorite holiday party. Leese-Fitch Cabernet Sauvignon (California), Red Autumn Chardonnay (California), Spice Drops, Chocolate Covered Almonds, Vanilla Caramels, Helen Grace Chocolate Bar, Fontazzi Butter Crunch Popcorn, Chocolate Wafers, and Chocolate Crepes. ($69.99)

Death by Chocolate-All of these chocolate delicacies are delivered in a rustic wood planter box that can be used as a letter box, window planter or kitchen accent. Be sure your recipient loves chocolate; they will die over this one. Gift includes: Opolo Merlot (Paso Robles, CA), Opolo Tempranillo (Paso Robles, CA), GAIA Organic Milk Chocolate Discs, Chocolate Milano Biscotti, Chocolate Swirl Cookie, Mississippi Chocolate Chip Cookie, Dark Chocolate Almonds, 72% Cacao Chocolate Discs, Helen Grace Crunch Bar, Urban Oven Chocolate Cookies, Chocolate Silk Cookies, and French Truffles all delivered in a rustic wooden basket. ($88.00)

Celebration-Sparkling wine chilling in a chrome ice bucket! Nothing says congratulations, let’s party, I’m happy, or plain ol’ good times, than a chilled bottle of the bubbly. Gift includes: Gerard Bertrand French Sparkling Wine, Sahale Classic Fruit and Nut Mix, Flatbread Crisps and two Northwoods Cheese Triangles delivered in a reusable Chrome ice bucket. ($59.00)

Viva Diva Chocolate Dreams-If you have the chocolate lover of chocolate lovers on your list, this basket will make you a hero. Handpicked chocolate delicacies all sourced from the Fancy Food Show in San Francisco and sent in a faux leather re-usable tote. Bakset includes 2 Viva Diva Moscato’s. Gift includes: 2 Bottles of Viva Diva Moscato, Dolcetto Chocolate Wafer Cookies, Chocolate Crisp Cookies, Chocolate Crackle Cookies, Urban Oven Chocolate Cookies, Claeys Kettle Fudge, Gaia Organic Milk Chocolate, La Patisserie Decadent Chocolate Crepes, Cable Car Milk Chocolate and Torani Chocolate Biscotti. Arrives in an executive leatherette tote. ($89.00)

ABOUT THE ORIGINAL WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB®

Serving both the novice and educated wine enthusiasts nationally for more than three decades, the original Wine of the Month Club® is a highly-rated mail order wine service that offers its members hand-picked selections of fine wines from the worlds finest growing regions in such diverse areas as California, Oregon, Washington, Italy, Spain, France, Germany and Australia. Each month more than 400 wines are tasted and evaluated for club selection and brought to the members at extraordinary prices. Members may shop online from a full selection of wines in the Wine Shop, gourmet gifts and wine accessories. Our newsletter contains fascinating insights into the featured wines, gourmet recipes and serving tips for wine lovers. The club is FREE and you never pay for a wine you do not like. The original Wine of the Month Club® houses a wide selection of award-winning wines at a 10,000 square-foot retail space/warehouse in Monrovia, California. For more information, please visit www.wineofthemonthclub.com or www.wineofthemonthclub.tv.

Eve’s Wine 101: Wine Service at Your Home, an Event, Bar, Winery or Restaurant

October 31, 2014 by evebushman

In our years of writing about wine we have also had many occasions to serve wine in both public and private tasting events. Couple that with the countless events, bars, wineries and restaurants we’ve reviewed and I came up with a quick training guide for our consulting clients that I’d like to share with our wine 101ers.

This week’s column is an adaptation of my guide titled, “How To: Lead a Wine Tasting.” Normally this is a handout accompanied with an approximate 90-minute presentation. I also often use it as a check off list when I’m hired to lead a home tasting. For our purposes I used italics for items I felt needed a little further explanation. (So, to answer that question in your head, no, this is not a 90-minute lesson, just a synopsis. Email me if you need anything more: Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com)

Prep

Tell guests to avoid wearing perfume as it conflicts with detecting wine aromas.

Minty gum, mints, cigarettes should be avoided prior to tasting.

Prepare the menu, with or without food pairing.

Select a theme.

Ingredients

Anecdotes. (For home: Just like a comic warming up a crowd, you will also get revved up by telling one of your wine stories. It could have been your first wine experience, your last, anything that is short and funny. Think about it, you’ve probably told a few stories about wine over wine already, pick a couple. As your party progresses you may need a couple more, to keep the evening moving. For all others: You still need a good story, preferably about the winemaker/winery/liquor you are highlighting.)

2-ounce pourer. (For public and private events to control pours and inebriation.)

Napkin for use as a wine bottle drape.

White tablecloth, napkin, or menu – to discern wine color. (Prompt your guest to hold their wine over a white object to focus on color.)

Pour out buckets/spittoons.

Pens and menu for note taking.

WSET Flavor and Aroma chart. (See photo on the left. This is very handy for the server and for the guest to help discern descriptors.)

Information sheet about the winery if applicable.

Ice buckets. (If serving white, sparkling, or any red you need to chill down fast place bottle into bucket first, add in several cups of ice around your bottle, fill with water for the “ice bath.” Will chill your wine in 20 minutes that way. Be mindful of over-chilling as the cold will “shut down” a wine’s aromas. If the room temperature is mild, go ahead and remove after the 20, you can always pop back in if needed.)

Stemware. (Your choice. Most people think bigger is better, however, then your two-ounce pour looks smaller. Choose clear, large-bowled glasses without a design whenever possible. Crystal glassware, such as Reidel, are widely respected. Glass tumblers lower the chances of spillage.)

Wine identifiers. (If you are serving 6 or more people this is a nice touch.)

Decanters. (Always have one handy in case it’s needed to help a young red wine age a little more gracefully before served.)

Directions

Sample each wine to check for TCA before pouring samples to the guests. (TCA is an acronym for a much longer term referring to cork taint. You are looking for a bad taste, sometimes noted as cardboard, or anything you find off-putting in the wine’s flavor. Wine can be damaged by many things, heat and movement included, so though TCA is a commonly used term it may not be the term that applies to any particular wine that happens to have been damaged. And if the smell is funky taste anyway; often a freshly opened bottle smells differently than one that has been opened for a few minutes or more.)

If you can, greet your guests with a small taste, sparkling always gets the mood started.

Do not rush anyone. However, if a guest is very late, begin the tasting without them.

Tell guests about each wine before or as they are tasting.

Share your thoughts on aroma, and then ask for theirs.

Repeat for thoughts on flavor.

If a food pairing, ask for comments on if/how the wine changes with the food.

Have a general conclusion about the wine, liked/disliked, before moving on.

Prompt guests to use spittoon/pour out bucket to avoid inebriation.