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Each May, the Ranch takes its award-winning wine program to another level with the
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PERLIS PICKS: NAPA AT LAST LIGHT
The book Napa at Last Light by James Conaway was very hard to read. Not because it was poorly written. Far from it. Mr. Conaway is an excellent writer, having authored thirteen books as well as having been published in numerous magazines. This book, subtitled “America’s Eden in an Age of Calamity”, is the most recent installment of what is called his Napa trilogy, which started with Napa: The Story of an American Eden and continued with The Far Side of Eden: New Money, Old Land, and the Battle for Napa Valley.
So when I say it is hard to read, it is because the third volume, unlike a certain other famous trilogy, reads like “Sauron” is on his way to winning and that is sad.
Not one to pull punches, Conaway writes about the large corporate interests as well as the millionaire vanity vintners who threaten to take over Napa Valley, using up its twin scarce resources of land and water in the search to produce the next high scoring Cabernet. Providing much detail about the political intrigue and machinations involved, he’s not afraid to name names either. [I’ll leave those for the reader to discover.]
Personally, I wish he would have spent more time on people like Steve Matthiasson, who emerges in the book [to continue the analogy from above] as a possible real-life “Frodo Baggins”, or perhaps more aptly “Samwise Gamgee”. There are a few other heroes presented as well, probably most notably Randy Dunn of Dunn Vineyards.
I’m not naïve enough to suggest that development is all bad and that money is the root of all evil. Personally, Napa is not our usual stomping ground, but in the wine regions that Karen and I frequent we’ve seen plenty of inroads from wealthy people who have caught the wine bug, as well as from corporate interests. We tend to favor the smaller wineries, some of which hang on by a shoestring. Yet, I’m not ashamed that some of our favorites are also from people who made their fortune in other walks of life and have the financial wherewithal to invest significantly in their winemaking operations.
I also believe that for smaller wineries to be successful, Direct-To-Consumer sales are critical, versus giving away profits in multi-tier distribution systems. But, DTC usually requires visitors and visitor facilities use land. And the addition of event centers enables wineries to attract more visitors and generate more revenue. Commerce, ultimately, is the end goal in order to keep the winery operations going.
But there is no denying the issues that Conaway discusses. Land and water are finite.
Climate change is real. And there are certain political forces at various levels of government that are seeking to reduce environmental protections.
Some people say that Mr. Conaway has gone too far. They say he only presents one side of the issues and doesn’t tell the whole story. Personally, I’m not qualified to judge. I do know that voices like James Conaway’s are important to keep the conversation going.
And while this is referred to as the final volume of the Napa trilogy, I’m hoping for at least one more installment – with some good news.
Napa at Last Light: America’s Eden in an Age of Calamity
By James Conaway
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.
Garagiste Wine Festival Comes to the Heart of Sonoma Wine Country in May
PASO ROBLES, Calif. (PRWEB) – Garagiste Events today announced that its internationally renowned Garagiste Wine Festival comes to the heart of Sonoma, California on May 12th for the very first time. The festival will showcase the rich variety of small-production wines currently being crafted by some of the most innovative winemakers in Sonoma, Mendocino, Livermore, Lodi, and Napa, as well as other California regions. The non-profit event will be held at the Sonoma Veterans Building near Sonoma’s historic downtown plaza. Tickets are on sale today at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1st-annual-garagiste-festival-northern-exposure-tickets-43108506704
Like many small production wineries, over ninety percent of participating wineries are without a tasting room where they can meet the public, making the premier Sonoma Garagiste Festival a one-of-a-kind opportunity for consumers to discover, and meet, 40 winemakers while tasting 150+ wines made from over 15 varieties. This is why The Garagiste Festival, which always sells out, has been dubbed ‘wine tasting Nirvana;” ‘a wildly exuberant and fun wine event,’ and “not-to-be missed’ by the LA Times.
“Sonoma-area winemakers and wine lovers have been asking us for quite some time to bring the Garagiste Festival further north,” said Garagiste Festival Co-founder Douglas Minnick. “On May 12th, at last, we are able to offer this fertile and creative winemaking community the opportunity to share their delicious wines in the intimate and unique Garagiste Festival setting. Bringing these winemakers onto the radar of passionate wine fans on the lookout for new wine discoveries is one of the great pleasures of the festival.”
“And, if you think you know the garagiste line-up, think again…” added Festival Co-founder Stewart McLennan. “Over half of these wineries are brand new to the festival, as are many of the Northern California regions represented. In the wake of the Northern California fires, we are glad to spread the word that this part of California not only remains open for business, but is thriving.”
Known for high quality wines, first-time and ‘soon-to-break-out’ discoveries, diverse grape varieties, a ‘no snobs allowed’ policy and a renegade and fun-loving spirit, the non-profit Garagiste Festivals are the only festivals in the US dedicated to micro-production winemakers. Garagiste Festivals have introduced hundreds of outstanding artisan winemakers (who produce under 1500 cases of wine) to thousands of passionate wine consumers, members of the trade and media, raising the profiles of many of the winemakers nationally for the first time, and raising thousands of dollars for the education of future winemakers.
Cris Carter owner and winemaker of Weatherborne Wine Corp, and who owns a vineyard in the Anderson Valley, has showcased his wines at multiple Garagiste Festivals. “The Garagiste Fest is the perfect place for small-production, family-run wine brands to meet their audience. Winery owners meet face-to-face with interested and engaged consumers who often wind up being their most loyal customers and brand advocates,” says Carter. “Attendees get to pick the brains of the people actually making the wine and running the business, learning the wine’s story in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. For the wine trade, it’s a great place to unearth the next wave of exciting California producers; a true opportunity to find hidden gems for your wine list or portfolio.”
The Sonoma Garagiste Festival will kick off at 11:30 am on Saturday, May 12th, with a signature tasting seminar: “The Garagiste Variety Show: Exploring the Diversity of Small-Production Winemaking.” The seminar will focus on the range of wines being produced by Garagiste winemakers, and investigate why garagiste winemakers have stepped away from Cabernet and Chardonnay to work with grapes considered under-the-radar in Northern California. Moderated by McLennan, panelists include: Paul Gordon of Halcon Vineyards and Randy Hester of Lightning Wines. In the afternoon is the main event: the Grand Tasting, which runs from 2:00pm to 5:00pm. Like all Garagiste Festivals (and unlike many larger wine festivals), the Sonoma festival will limit ticket sales to give attendees a comfortable and relaxed tasting experience with personal winemaker interaction.
For the full schedule, more information, go to: http://garagistefestival.com or follow us on Twitter (@GaragisteFest) or Facebook. For breaking festival news and special discounts sign-up for our free newsletter, The Dirt at http://garagistefestival.com/sign-up/.
Winemakers already scheduled to pour include:
Betwixt Wines, Calstar Cellars, Camlow Cellars, Chenoweth Wines, Crux Winery, Enoteca Five, Fallon Place Wine, Fields Family Wines, Gordenker Wines, Gregory James Wines, Halcon Vineyards, Kendrick Vineyards, La Pitchoune Winery, Lightning Wines, Magna Vita Cellars, Mastro Scheidt, Merisi Wines, Montagne Russe, Montemaggiore, Murder Ridge, Nowell-Smith Wines, Parmeson Wines, Piezo Winery, T. Berkley Wines, Trojak-Knier Winery, Von Holt Cellars and Weatherborne Wine Co.
Sponsors include: ETS, Laffort, Glenn Burdette, Digital Dogma, mWEBB Communications, Farm Credit, and G3
For sponsorship info, email info@garagistefestival.com.
About The Garagiste Wine Festivals
The Garagiste Wine Festivals (http://www.garagistefestival.com) are the first and only wine festivals dedicated to the undiscovered and under-recognized American artisan ‘garagiste’ producers who are making some of the best, most exciting, handcrafted small-lot production wines in the world. Founded by fellow garagiste winemakers Stewart McLennan and Douglas Minnick, the Garagiste Festivals are committed to discovering the best and most innovative limited-production winemakers and promoting and showcasing them to a broad audience of discerning wine consumers. In addition to its flagship annual festival in Paso Robles, CA, the Garagiste Festival line-up includes Garagiste Festival: Southern Exposure, featuring Santa Ynez Valley garagistes; the Garagiste Festival: Urban Exposure, in Los Angeles; the Garagiste Festival, Northern Exposure, in the Bay Area; winemaker dinners, a newsletter, garagiste profiles and more.
The festivals were named one of the ‘Top Nine Incredible Epicurean Vacations’ in the world by ABC News,* “one of the premier wine events of the year,” by the LA Times and “Best Festival” by Sunset Magazine’s ‘Best of the West.’ The festivals are produced by Garagiste Events, a non-profit dedicated to furthering the education of future winemakers and those training for employment within the wine industry. Garagiste Festivals Inc. is a 5013c non-profit organization and proceeds from the festivals support the Garagiste Festival Scholarship fund of the California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo Wine and Viticulture Department.
**Garagistes (garage-east) is a term originally used in the Bordeaux region of France to denigrate renegade small-lot wine makers, sometimes working in their “garages” (anything considered not a chateau), who refused to follow the “rules,” and is now a full-fledged movement responsible for making some of the best wine in the world.
HALL WINES CABERNET COOKOFF RETURNS FOR NINTH YEAR
ST. HELENA, CALIFORNIA – HALL Napa Valley, one of the world’s most notable Cabernet Sauvignon producers, has announced plans for its ninth annual Cabernet Cookoff to return on Saturday, April 28 at HALL St. Helena. Hosted by Vintner Kathryn Hall, the annual event will feature an impressive lineup of renowned Bay Area Chef teams vying for a chance to win proceeds for a charity of their choice by participating in a food and wine pairing competition. 100% of ticket proceeds benefit Napa Valley non-profit organizations. The event includes a VIP Preview at 11 a.m. prior to the Main Event which begins at 12 p.m.
Kathyrn Hall
“This event makes a difference to so many lives,” says Vintner Kathryn Hall. “Guests come together to celebrate passion for food and wine, and in the end, local non-profits garner awareness and contributions. Everyone participating comes out a winner – it is a fun and rewarding day for all involved.”
Fifteen Chef teams are tasked to craft a seasonal small bite that they feel pairs best with HALL Coeur Cabernet Sauvignon. Guests in attendance will sample all pairings to vote on the People’s Choice Awards, and a star-studded panel of Celebrity Judges will taste to vote for the Judge’s Choice Awards. Participating teams include The Grill at Meadowood, One Market Restaurant, Charlie Palmer Steak, Goose & Gander, Paula LeDuc Catering, C Casa, Galpau Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse, Amiee D’Maris Events, El Dorado Kitchen, Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin’ BBQ, Brix, Napa Valley Bistro, Sift and Intercontinental Mark Hopkins.
Natalie Morales, TODAY West Coast Anchor and Host of Access, has been announced as the official Emcee for the event. Morales will help wrangle in the crowd with event happenings day-of as well as help announce the winners alongside Kathryn Hall. Natalie’s new lifestyle book, At Home with Natalie: Simple Recipes for Healthy Living from My Family’s Kitchen to Yours will be released this April and will be given away to all VIP Ticket holders.
The 2018 Judging panel includes Actress Beth Behrs from the hit CBS show, 2 Broke Girls; Celebrity Chef Duff Goldman from Food Network; Bay Area Sports Hall of Famer and Former San Francisco 49ers Executive, Carmen Policy; Michelin-rated Chef, Ken Frank, La Toque, and Wine Critic Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast Magazine.
Event sponsors include Microsoft, Nixon-Peabody, My Office Products, Bright Rentals, Certified Parking Attendants, ROBB Report, Cypress Grove Cheese Company, ZICO Coconut Water, Signum Architecture, Snap Fiesta, Harvest Sanitation, Private Spring Water, Mark T. Palmer Window Services, Lux Productions, Riedel Glassware, Barbier Security and ALKAR.
Both VIP and General Admission tickets are available. VIP ticket holders will experience a Preview offering from 11a.m. to 12p.m. prior to the main event featuring the Celebrity Judges and Host Kathryn Hall sharing their philosophies on what makes a good food and wine pairing. Additionally, there will be a Silent Auction during the event where guests can bid on locally sourced items with all proceeds benefitting Napa Valley non-profits.
Saturday, April 28, 2018
VIP Preview: 11a.m. – 12p.m. $200pp
Main Event: 12p.m. – 3p.m. $125pp
HALL St. Helena
401 St. Helena Hwy. S
St. Helena, CA 94574 (707) 967-2626
TICKETS: www.hallwines.com/cabernetcookoff
The 2017 HALL Cabernet Cookoff drew more than 850 attendees for a sold-out crowd and raised $80,000 for local charities. Since inception in 2011, the HALL Cabernet Cookoff has raised $500,000 for Napa Valley charities. For more information, please visit www.hallwines.com/cabernetcookoff or via social channels using #cabernetcookoff.
HALL: The Art of Cabernet
HALL produces award-winning Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, available to taste and buy at two properties in Napa Valley as well as at hallwines.com. Owned by Craig and Kathryn Hall, its vineyard collection features seven Estate vineyards, of which five are California Certified Organic (CCOF). Led by Winemaker Steve Leveque, HALL’s wine portfolio includes 19 distinctive Cabernet Sauvignon bottlings highlighting the finest vineyards and sub-appellations of the Napa Valley. The HALL St. Helena winery was the first LEED® Gold Certified Winery in the State of California in 2009 and earned another LEED® Gold certification for its high tech production facility and Tasting Room in 2014, making HALL a leader in green efficiencies. HALL’s 2008 ‘Kathryn Hall’ Cab earned the #2 spot in Wine Spectator’s “Top 100”. Two other bottlings, the ‘Exzellenz’ and ‘Rainin Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignons have garnered multiple 100 point ratings in recent years. For more information about HALL, please visit www.hallwines.com or by calling 707.967.2626. @hallwines #artofcabernet
Tastings This Week: Red Blends from New Zealand, Napa and South Africa!
This week I got to taste three different expressions of red Bordeaux grape blends – none from Bordeaux, France. One, from Napa, is a pretty known source for Bordeaux blends, the other two, from New Zealand and South Africa, not so known. It was interesting to taste through them to not only remark on the aromas and flavors, but also to note differences that would be due to location, weather and winemaking choices. These are my tasting notes, and the winery notes are below.
Eve’s Tasting Notes
Hawkes Bay, New Zealand
Trinity Hill The Trinity 2014
Merlot, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Syrah
The color of black cherries stretching out to a dark purple edge, clear and clean. From a few inches away those black cherries extended to the aroma and called me in, where I also found stewed mushroom, plum, milk chocolate, a bit o’ mint, bark and smoke. In the mouth it was all very drying: dried dark fruit, blackest of blackberries, cigar, some tartness, some brightness, but relatively big and dark with forceful tannins. Not unappealing in any way. Wanted a nice charred steak with it. 90 Eve pts.
Napa, California, U.S.
2013 Leviathan
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Syrah
Very dark purple as well, with a slight brown tinge to the edge, opaque. Pungent plum, blueberry, blackberry, spice, forest floor/earthy, oak and more – all on the nose. Tasting the wine I discovered bold fruit, fresh and big, great mouth-coating viscosity, and with the same fruit I found on the nose: fresh blueberry up front and then blackberry, followed by welcoming tannin. This wine would be fine now, or in 10 years in my opinion. Enjoy with pizza through to chocolate. 91 Eve pts.
Stellenbosch, South Africa
Mulderbosch Faithful Hound
Bordeaux Blend
Deep plum to brown in color, opaque. On the nose I got whiffs of suede, red clay, plump raisins, brick and stewed dark fruits. I couldn’t wait to taste this. I got the gamut of flavors there: chewy chocolate, spice, bright red fruit to dusty dark fruit with a very firm tannin backbone. Definitely wanted ribs, pasta or any robust dish. If you like interesting wines, you want to look for this one. 92 Eve pts.
Winery Tasting Notes
Hawkes Bay, New Zealand
Trinity Hill The Trinity 2014 (SRP $17) This intriguing proprietary blend of Merlot, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Syrah combines aromas of plum and leather with lingering flavors of cassis and redcurrant. Soft, rich and ripe tannins make this an eminently drinkable wine. Made to be enjoyed while still quite young with barbecued meats.
Napa, California, U.S.
2013 Leviathan (SRP $48) A beastly red blend with dense berry fruits, licorice and bittersweet chocolate notes, with hints of coffee and peppery spice. This red is balanced with bright acidity and prominent oak. Blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Syrah from vineyards in and around Napa, this wine is never blended the same way twice. You can ensure a unique wine year to year that truly reflects the unique soils and terroir of California.
Stellenbosch, South Africa
Mulderbosch Faithful Hound (SRP $25) This bold Bordeaux blend brims with dark fruit notes of mulled boysenberry, cassis and black cherry, all streaked with spicy accents of menthol and black tea leaves. The wine is definitely New World in style with its creamy mouthfeel and medium acidity level. Notes of licorice stick, espresso and roasted cocoa nibs linger through the long close.
Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com
Paso Robles CAB Collective Presents 4th Annual CABs of Distinction Grand Tasting
Annual celebration of Cabernet Sauvignon and red Bordeaux varietals, Friday, October 14, 2016
September 2016 (Paso Robles, Calif) – On Friday, October 14, the Paso Robles CAB (Cabernet And Bordeaux) Collective (PRCC), pasoroblescab.com, will hold its annual CABs of Distinction Grand Tasting bringing consumers face-to-face with acclaimed producers of over 75 different Cabernet and red Bordeaux varietals from Paso Robles. The event will take place at the picturesque Allegretto Vineyard Resort, from 4 PM to 6PM.
The Paso Robles appellation’s warm days, cool nights, and long growing season contribute to exceptional balance, texture, and structure in Cabernet Sauvignon and red Bordeaux varietal wines, recognized by sommeliers, journalists, and in-the-know consumers as among the best in the world. At the CABs of Distinction Grand Tasting, guests will be treated to tastings of the finest Cabernet and red Bordeaux-blend wines the region has to offer, accompanied by live music and small bites prepared by Executive Chef Eric Olson of Cello Ristorante & Bar.
“While Paso Robles has been synonymous with the Rhône movement for over a decade now, it is worth noting the quality of the Bordeaux varieties coming from these limestone hills today. I’m increasingly seeing incredible wines based largely on Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and other Bordeaux varieties from Paso Robles. While it may be hard for readers to believe, trust me when I tell you that these top-quality releases are a match for the best wines from California’s North Coast,” said Jeb Dunnuck, RobertParker.com, August 31, 2016.
Event access will be provided to qualified media. Tickets for this exceptional event are $65. Designated drivers are encouraged, for which tickets are $35 each. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit pasoroblescab.com/events.
Members of the Paso Robles CAB Collective who will pour at the Grand Tasting include: ADELAIDA Cellars, Ancient Peaks Winery, Bon Niche Cellars, Brecon Estate, Calcareous Vineyard, Cass Vineyard & Winery, Chateau Margene, Clos Solène, DAOU Vineyards & Winery, Eberle Winery, Halter Ranch Vineyard, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, Opolo Vineyards, Parrish Family Vineyard, Pomar Junction Vineyard & Winery, RN Estate, Rotta Winery, San Antonio Winery, Sextant Wines, The Farm Winery, and Vina Robles Vineyards & Winery.
Sponsors of the 2016 Paso Robles CAB Collective include: Smurfit Kappa Orange County / Orange County Container Group; The Tasting Panel Magazine; The SOMM Journal; Fiji Water; Bruni Glass Packaging; Enartis Vinquiry; Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance; Travel Paso; Seguin Moreau; Nomacorc; Martinez Farming; Glenn Burdette; Farm Credit West; Lafitte Cork & Capsule; Portocork; Saury USA; Heritage Oaks Bank; Umpqua Bank; Vintage Nurseries; Cork Supply; Cellotape / Landmark Label; The Blueprinter & Graphics; Butlerz Events; Breakaway Tours and Event Planning; and Parker Sanpei Public Relations & Marketing.
ABOUT THE PASO ROBLES CAB COLLECTIVE
Formed in 2012, the Paso Robles CAB (Cabernet And Bordeaux) Collective (PRCC) is an independent collaborative effort of leading Paso Robles growers and producers of Cabernet and red Bordeaux varietals specific to the Paso Robles AVA in California. The PRCC strives to promote the full potential of the Paso Robles region in producing superior quality, classic and age-worthy Cabernet and red Bordeaux varietals that compete with like varietals on a global stage to consumers and media worldwide. For more information, please visit pasoroblescab.com.
Perlis Picks: CLASSICISM in Lodi, by Abe Schoener (Scholium Project wines)
It has been no secret that I am a fan of Abe Schoener’s Scholium Project wines. I am also a fan of Abe Schoener. Yes, his wines are good, often great, sometimes challenging. In addition, it is his philosophical approach to winemaking and vineyards that really resonates with me. When I got an email from him recently announcing his Fall release, I wanted to share it with the readers of Eve’s Wine 101,not because I want you to buy his wine [although I think you should] but to give you some insight into what he is all about. He expresses better than I do the importance of the old vineyards of which I am so fond.
With Abe’s permission…
CLASSICISM in Lodi.
This email (now a blog post via Michael Perlis) announces and invites you to purchase our Fall Release. But first a manifesto, to help position it. Reflection before Commerce.
It’s harvest, and of course we are excited. But we have had a pause– it will be two more weeks before we bring more fruit in. So there is time for reflection.
Today, when we were sampling Bechtold, trying to get a sense of when we would bring it in, and how good it would be, it occurred to me that, “Now, I know this vineyard. And so does Alex, and Brenna. We are no longer astronauts on Mars here; we are at home.” We can quickly see the signs of mite damage, and consider how that will affect the ripening; we can cast our eyes on the clusters and sense right away, “bigger than normal, but smaller than the first year, 2008 . . . ” The point is not that we are merely experienced, but that our work here, and in nearly every aspect of what we do, has graduated into a new phase. We are no longer exploring with every move, we are now making things with skill and knowledge. We feel joy with every move– every harvest, every pressing, every bottling. But now in addition to our daily joy, we are making wines with mastery. We are finally in a position to create something classical.
And it is not just we at Scholium. I first realized this over the Winter, in conversation with a friend and colleague in Minneapolis. He wanted to get a bunch of us together and drop the bomb on his city. I was all for it; it is a special place, full of knowledge and excitement. And he said, “Yeah, it will be the New California coming to town . . . .” And I said, “Fuck that. We are already past the ‘New California.'”
And here is what I meant: We are not working or thinking in opposition to some existing pattern or scheme– something “old.” We are working within a world created by our teachers, parents, and anonymous antecedents. We too are trying to fashion something abiding and valuable, that will stand on its own, and stand not just in opposition to or rejection of something else.
No one knows or teaches this better than our friend and colleague, Tegan Passalacqua. Just today at lunch he reminded us of the “legendary ’81 Topolos Alicante Bouschet. Like Hermitage. . . . From two old vineyards in Sonoma.” His knowledge is not antiquarian or even a connoisseur’s– his knowledge is living and dedicated to helping us grasp what came before us, what heights have been hit, then almost forgotten. It is for this reason that we dedicate ourselves to old vineyards and unglamorous regions: because of what has been accomplished there, even if it is now ignored. So it is not just because we are rebels or iconoclasts, or contrarian, or even thrifty, that we have pushed our work beyond the bounds of Napa or the charms of Cabernet– we do so not because Lodi and Trousseau promise novelty, but precisely because they promise the opportunity to do something classical– again.
[About the fall release –] …Two or three really have some claim on the classical: the Prince, from a relatively young vineyard in Sonoma; and 1MN, from the own-rooted Cinsault,…planted in the middle of Lodi in the 1870s; Michael Faraday: Chardonnay noble, strong, like and unlike its peers from Burgundy and the Jura. All of the wines in this release are great, and at least one expresses a spirit of bold experimentation, no matter what I say about the classical.
Now let me share another reflection. What are the peers of these wines? If the wines were vines or microbes, we would ask: what is their ecology?
When I started out, as iconoclastic as my crazy wines might have been, I saw my wines as outsiders positioned both within and against the world of expensive cult Cabernets and rich, pricy Chardonnays. I don’t mean that I hoped for or expected the financial success of the most famous wines, but I did want my wines to compete against them, or at least circulate within the same world. This made me price them a certain way– in part, to make sure that they were compared to, and ranked with these very fancy wines. And now, a little more than a decade after I set the prices for the first Scholium wines, I see that they are now moving in a very different world. What is so interesting to me that the commercial world within which these wines circulate is very wide– it is not in the least limited to California. Our new classics, as much as our earnest experiments, now move in a world full of natural wines from the Loire, old vine Nerello from Mt. Etna, Assyrtiko from Santorini, and an army of (as yet) unpronounceable wines from the eastern reaches of the Hapsburg Empire. And this is true not just in the United States, but in England, Denmark, Japan, even France– where there is now not just a market but a hunger for our wines. And not in opposition to these other wines, but as part of a truly international movement. And this world, of course has the occasional $100 bottle, but it is a world peopled with wines much more modestly priced. They are still luxuries, but middle-class luxuries– not the baubles of oligarchs. This hit me when a friend opened a $40 bottle of St. Bris for me and said, “I hope that it is good. It is my only bottle. This was my whole allocation.” In this new ecology, the most sought after wines do not require exhorbitant prices. And so, you can drink more of them.
This has been quite a lesson to me, and it has seemed only right to try to ensure that the prices of our wines clearly demonstrate the world in which they move. And so once again, we experiment. We are going to lower the prices of our two most expensive whites– and, over the course of time, you will see a few of the other wines simply disappear. I will write more about this in the future, and have told you a little already, but our focus will be on fewer wines, mostly white, and all of them more clearly in the orbit of the St. Bris. There you have it.
I can’t wait to hear what you have to say.
Stay in touch.
Abe
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.
Announcing: STARS of California Wine
Over 45 Californian wineries will be traveling to LA for an elite tasting event on Wednesday, May 25, 2016 at Peninsula Beverly Hills.
Los Angeles, California – wineLA has searched far and wide to round up some of the best Californian wine producers. At this tasting, Los Angeles wine lovers will be able to experience some Cali favorites such as bold Napa Cabernets, crisp Sauvignon Blancs, and smooth Pinot Noirs guaranteed to have everyone’s taste buds dancing throughout the night. wineLA is proud to announce the participating wineries for 2016! From Napa Valley- Yates Family, Graef Wine, Neal Family, and Round Pond. Paso Robles– Ancient Peaks Winery, Calcareous, Chateau Margene, DAOU, Eberle, Hoyt Family, L’Aventure Winery, Pomar Junction, San Antonio, Sextant, Vina Robles, and Vinemark Cellars. Santa Barbara– Alma Rosa, Archium Cellars, Bougetz Cellars, Coquelicot Estate, FOXEN and Westerly Wines. Sonoma– Cellars 33, Beekeeper Cellars, Dutton Estate, Garden Creek, Pax Mahle Wines, Adobe Road, Rued Wines, and Hawk and Horse. Central Coast – Bernardus Winery, Blair Estate, Carmel Ridge Winery, Carmel Road, Cima Collina, De Tierra Vineyards, Folktale Winery & Vineyards, Scheid Vineyards, Tolosa, Workman/Ayer, Wrath, Hahn Family. Other parts of California– Cole Bailey, Fathers & Daughters Cellars, Galatea Effect, and Miura Vineyards.
Los Angeles, California – wineLA has searched far and wide to round up some of the best Californian wine producers. At this tasting, Los Angeles wine lovers will be able to experience some Cali favorites such as bold Napa Cabernets, crisp Sauvignon Blancs, and smooth Pinot Noirs guaranteed to have everyone’s taste buds dancing throughout the night. wineLA is proud to announce the participating wineries for 2016! From Napa Valley- Yates Family, Graef Wine, Neal Family, and Round Pond. Paso Robles– Ancient Peaks Winery, Calcareous, Chateau Margene, DAOU, Eberle, Hoyt Family, L’Aventure Winery, Pomar Junction, San Antonio, Sextant, Vina Robles, and Vinemark Cellars. Santa Barbara– Alma Rosa, Archium Cellars, Bougetz Cellars, Coquelicot Estate, FOXEN and Westerly Wines. Sonoma– Cellars 33, Beekeeper Cellars, Dutton Estate, Garden Creek, Pax Mahle Wines, Adobe Road, Rued Wines, and Hawk and Horse. Central Coast – Bernardus Winery, Blair Estate, Carmel Ridge Winery, Carmel Road, Cima Collina, De Tierra Vineyards, Folktale Winery & Vineyards, Scheid Vineyards, Tolosa, Workman/Ayer, Wrath, Hahn Family. Other parts of California– Cole Bailey, Fathers & Daughters Cellars, Galatea Effect, and Miura Vineyards.
General Admission tickets can be purchased for $95 and includes unlimited wine tasting, and an elegant assortment of appetizers, cheeses, and desserts. Wine aficionados can choose to purchase a VIP ticket for $175 ($200 after May 1), which includes early admission, a 6pm plated dinner, VIP gift bags, and an exclusive tasting panel with Californian legends Richard Sanford- Alma Rosa, Dick Dore- Foxen, and Stephen Asseo- L’Adventure.
Guests will also have a chance to bid on an array of extraordinary auction items: rare wines, dinners, collectables, and trips ranging in value from $100 to $10,000. One hundred percent of the silent auction proceeds benefit the TJ Martell Foundation, a Los Angeles based 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to supporting innovative groundbreaking research for leukemia, cancer, and AIDS. We have raised over $350,000, and want to continue raising money for this fantastic life changing cause!
Stars of California Wine will commence at 7:00 p.m. for general admission ticket holders and 6:00 p.m. for VIP attendees.
For more information about Stars of California Wine or to purchase tickets, visit www.winela.com/starsofcalifornia or
call wineLA at (310) 451-7600.
call wineLA at (310) 451-7600.
About wineLA
wineLA is focused on enhancing the wine culture of Los Angeles. wineLA hosts significant events, occasional classes, and tastings of merit. This is the second phase of what the organization started 20 years ago at LearnAboutWine.com – America’s first wine education website and first in wine event creation.
To accomplish it’s mission, wineLA recognizes that wine must be placed in rhythm with fashion, music, food, geography, centers of interest, and architecture. Los Angeles is a giant playground with an amazing array of venues, spaces, wine bars, restaurants, beaches, rooftops, gardens, and magical views. wineLA is leaving a footprint of wine lifestyle by celebrating people, places, and passion.
A Taste of HALL Returns in 2016 – Monthly Food and Wine Workshop Aims at Inspiring and Educating
HALL, one of the leading Cabernet producers in the world, has announced plans to renew its premiere culinary offering, A Taste of HALL, for 2016. The wildly popular food and wine pairing workshop is designed to engage, inspire and educate guests about seasonal food and wine pairings while channeling ones inner chef.
Taste of HALL – John & Chris
We are thrilled to be able to offer our guests an unparalleled wine and food pairing experience in the Valley, says Director of Hospitality, Jocelyn Hoar. This program combines our passion for quality winemaking with exceptional culinary arts, and our chef team has garnered significant recognition for their dynamic approach with this series.
The monthly workshops will feature a different, seasonal theme each month as selected by HALLs In-House Chef / Wine Education team made up of Chris Quillen and John Pelham. The dynamic duo bring a modern perspective to Napa cuisine while aiming to engage guests by sharing a fresh approach to pairing workshops. Chef Quillen and Chef Pelham bring a diverse background to the program, combining two decades of luxury wine and culinary education.
Each guest attending A Taste of HALL will receive a recipe card featuring the courses and wine pairings discussed in the Workshop and have the chance to purchase HALL and WALT wines. A Taste of HALL takes place on one Sunday per month during the lunch hour and will include a three course meal paired with a combination of HALL and WALT wines.
2016 A Taste of HALL Schedule includes:
Sunday, March 13: LUCK OF THE IRISH
Feature Wine: 2013 HALL Mount Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon
Sunday, April 10: SPRING FLING
Feature Wine: 2013 HALL Bergfeld Cabernet Sauvignon
Sunday, May 8: COOKING FOR MOM
Feature Wine: 2013 HALL Ellies Cabernet Sauvignon
Sunday, June 12: CHILLIN & GRILLIN
Feature Wine: 2013 HALL Jacks Masterpiece Cabernet Sauvignon
Sunday, July 17: RED, WHITE & BLUE
Feature Wine: 2013 HALL Eighteen Seventy-Three Cabernet Sauvignon
Sunday, August 7: A FOODIES VACATION
Feature Wine: 2013 HALL Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon
Sunday, September 18:KATHRYN HALL YALL
Feature Wine: 2013 HALL Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon
Sunday, October 9: HAPPY HALLOWINE
Feature Wine: 2013 HALL Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon
Sunday, November 13:THANKSGIVING DAY FEAST
Feature Wine: 2013 HALL Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
Sunday, December 11: PERFECT HOLIDAY PAIRINGS
Feature Wine: 2013 HALL Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon
Tickets are $125pp and are available to purchase at http://www.hallwines.com/hall-st-helena.
HALL Wines owns over 410 planted acres in Napa County, Sonoma County and Mendocino County that includes five California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) Estate vineyards in Napa and Sonoma Counties.
ABOUT HALL
HALL produces critically acclaimed artisan Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, available to taste and buy at two tasting room and winery locations in Napa Valley. Owned by Craig and Kathryn Walt Hall, its vineyard collection features five Certified Organic estates producing classic Bordeaux varietals. Each vintage, Director of Winemaking Steve Leveque crafts distinct Cabernet Sauvignon wines which demonstrate the unique characteristics and diversity of Napa Valley. HALLs highly rated wines include two 100pt scores given by Robert Parker for its 2013 Rainin Vineyard Cabernet and its 2010 Exzellenz. HALL also earned the #2 spot in Wine Spectators Top 100 for its 2008 Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon. Since the first vintage in 2002, over 170 HALL wines have been rated 90 points and above. HALL employs high-density plantings and small vine viticulture combined with two cutting-edge, gravity-flow wineries to produce the highest quality wines. The HALL St. Helena winery was the first LEED® Gold Certified Winery in the State of California in 2009 and earned another LEED® Gold certification for its high tech production facility and Tasting Room in 2014. Each of HALLs state-of-the-art winemaking facilities and tasting rooms combine modern art and architecture matched with spectacular settings. HALLs partner winery, WALT, known for producing premier Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from distinctive vineyards, is located in Sonoma, California. For more information, please visit www.hallwines.com, @hallwines, or by calling 707.967.2626.
Masters and Makers @ Meritage – The Ultimate Napa Valley Food and Wine Experience
The Meritage Resort and Spa Hosts Third Annual Wine and Food Celebration
NAPA, Calif. (January 12, 2016) – The Meritage Resort and Spa will host the third annual Masters and Makers @ Meritage from February 12 -14, 2016. The Napa Valley food and wine experience will showcase Napa Valley and Sonoma County wines along with farm-fresh foods through creative wine tasting experiences, interactive seminars, and a culinary class. The weekend-long event will also feature a winemaker dinner in the Estate Cave featuring HALL Wines, and a grand tasting benefitting Community Resources for Children, a Napa Valley charity.
Masters and Makers @ Meritage is aimed at teaching attendees from novice to aficionado more about the famous wines of Napa Valley. Guests can choose from a variety of interactive, educational, and unique activities led by master winemakers and sommeliers – making it the wine event not to miss.
Friday, February 12 – Amuse Bouche:
4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., The Masters and The Makers
Learn about tasting wine from a winemaker, master sommelier, and winery proprietor. The panel of experts will lead a tasting session featuring wine from HALL Wines and Trinitas Cellars, and answer questions from attendees. This event is your opportunity to learn from the experts and try a selection of wines from HALL before the winemaker dinner. $60/person
7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., HALL Wines Winemaker Dinner in the Estate Cave
A master sommelier and representatives from HALL Wines along with The Meritage Resort and Spa’s Executive Chef Ryan Rupp will take you on a wine and culinary journey. The event will feature a multi-course dinner paired with wines from HALL. $175/person
Saturday, February 13 – Á la Carte Saturday:
(Guests are able to choose from several activities)
11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., Opposites Attract – The Most Unlikely Pairings of Food and Wine
Cabernet and Steak, Port and Chocolate – most wine enthusiasts believe they are knowledgeable about wine and food pairings, but sometimes the most unexpected items complement each other. Join Trinitas Cellars as we explore this idea with four unique pairings. After the tasting, enjoy a plated multi-course lunch with wine. $100/person
11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., Cook to This! Cooking Class and Wine Pairing with Skywalker Vineyards
Wine, recipes, ingredients, and education. The Meritage Resort and Spa’s culinary team will lead a cooking class where you create your own lunch from custom recipes paired with Skywalker Vineyards wines. Sip wine as you craft each course, and then dine and enjoy your culinary creation. $100/person
3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Blind Date – A Taste of Napa Valley Cabernet
In the dating world, blind dates can go really well or be very awkward. Luckily when it comes to wine, not knowing what to expect is a good thing. Taste a selection of Napa Valley Cabernets in varietal specific glassware and see if you can figure out which one is your favorite, then compare it with others. $40/person (optional event, not part of all-access pass)
3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Shape of the Glass Tasting with RIEDEL: Relationships and Glassware Come in All Shapes and Sizes
Ever wonder why there are so many different shapes and sizes of stemware available? Join RIEDEL as we embark on a unique wine tasting experience focused on learning about the shape of the glass. Learn about how to match your stemware to your wine and enjoy the benefits of improved bouquet, texture, flavors, and finish. The experience will take you through some of the finest Napa Valley wines from Etude, world renown chocolates from Lindt, and explain the winemakers’ secrets behind each wine. This year we will feature four different glasses from RIEDEL while trying two white and two red wines. After the class, you keep the glassware, which is a $140 value. $100/person (optional event, not part of all-access pass)
7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., Grand Tasting
The Meritage Grand Salon will transform into a majestic tasting room with more than 40 Napa Valley and Sonoma wineries showcasing many of the finest wines produced in the region. These wines and a few brews from local breweries will be featured alongside endless creations from our incredible culinary team and favorite Napa Valley restaurants. Guests have the opportunity to walk around to each winery and pair a variety of exquisite wines with a wonderful selection of seafood, delightfully prepared meats, cheeses, and decadent desserts all while enjoying live music. A portion of the proceeds from the Grand Tasting will benefit Community Resources for Children, a Napa Valley charity. For an exclusive opportunity to taste some of the finest wines in Napa Valley, purchase access into our VIP area where wineries will offer tastings of at least one wine that sells for $75 or more. $125-$175/person (discounts available for Napa County residents)
Sunday, February 14 – Valen-Wines Day:
9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Valentine’s Day Sparkling Brunch
Enjoy a fabulous Valentine’s Day brunch with your special someone as The Meritage Resort and Spa’s culinary team partners with some of the top sparkling wine producers from Napa Valley. In addition we will have spirits available and an expert mixologist to create all of your favorite breakfast cocktails. $69/person
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., Meritage Blends, a Vino and Cioccolato Experience
Treat your Valentine to a casual afternoon tasting of Meritage blends from across the Napa Valley and Sonoma regions paired with the best chocolates Northern California has to offer. Did you know that Meritage wines must be a blend of two or more of the eight traditional Bordeaux varietals (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Gros Verdot, Carménère, Saint-Macaire)? Taste some of the best blends while enjoying chocolates from our favorite local and regional candy shops. $60/person
“We look forward to highlighting what Napa Valley does best – wine and food— at the third annual Masters and Makers @ Meritage,” said Michael Palmer, general manager of The Meritage Resort and Spa. “From world-class, award-winning wines to fabulous food prepared with fresh ingredients by our resort’s talented chefs, this event is a must for all wine lovers. After the weekend, attendees will leave with an increased appreciation for the art of winemaking, winetasting, and wine pairing.”
Masters and Makers @ Meritage offers 3-Day All Access Passes for $549 per person that include the following events: The Masters and The Makers; HALL Wines Winemaker Dinner in the Estate Cave; Cook to This! Cooking Class and Wine Pairing OR Opposites Attract … The Most Unlikely Pairings of Food and Wine; Grand Tasting; Valentine’s Day Sparkling Brunch; and Meritage Blends, a Vino and Cioccolato Experience. Does not include: Blind Date … a Taste of Napa Valley Cabernet; Shape of the Glass Tasting with RIEDEL; or Grand Tasting with VIP Tasting (VIP Tasting can be purchased separately or through VIP All-Access Pass, other events can be purchased separately). Discounted room packages are also available, that include a two-night stay with rates starting at $299* per night and two 3-Day All Access Passes ($499 per pass not included in room rate). Use Promo Code ALLACCESS.
A portion of all ticket sales from the Grand Tasting will be donated to Community Resources for Children, a Napa Valley charity.
For tickets and information, visit MeritageResort.com/Masters. All ticket purchases can be made securely through The Meritage Resort website with a room reservation or through EventBrite.
About The Meritage Resort and Spa
The Meritage Resort and Spa is an extraordinary four-diamond Napa Valley luxury resort set against a hillside vineyard. A destination unto itself, it features 322 Tuscan-inspired guestrooms and luxury suites, seasonal farm-to-table cuisine at the Siena Restaurant and wine tasting in the Estate Cave featuring Trinitas Cellars. Regain a healthful balance with curative treatments at Spa Terra—a lavish underground spa with steam grottoes, soaking pools, treatment alcoves and tranquil walls of water. The resort boasts the most comprehensive event and meeting space in the wine country, including the two largest ballrooms in the Napa Valley, the Estate Cave and three covered terraces. Crush Ultra Lounge offers guests a chance to relax with a full bar, sports entertainment and six bowling lanes. Far more than a place for relaxation, our unique property is an Old World escape from the ordinary. The Meritage Resort and Spa experience is the perfect blend of gracious hospitality, unrivaled amenities and peerless personal care. The Meritage Resort and Spa, We are Napa. MeritageResort.com.
About Meritage Collection
The Meritage Collection is a lifestyle and luxury hotel brand that blends iconic, one-of-a-kind places with locally-inspired experiences designed for the curious traveler. Débuted in 2013, Meritage Collection is comprised of five hotels & resorts throughout California – The Meritage Resort and Spa in Napa Valley, Bacara Resort & Spa in Santa Barbara, Paséa Hotel & Spa in Huntington Beach (Opening May 2016), Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach and Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa. Reflective of its California roots, the Meritage Collection offers a laid-back luxury service culture that caters to the modern day traveler. The Collection properties are members of the Global Hotel Alliance and its DISCOVERY Rewards Program. DISCOVERY rewards travelers with local experiences and unique adventures not generally available to the public. For more information, please visit MeritageCollection.com or follow us on Twitter @MeritageHotels or Facebook Facebook.com/Meritage.Collection.Hotels.
*rate does not include taxes and resort fee
