Vintage Eve Circa 7/2016: Garagiste 2016 Urban Exposure Event Exposed!

June 18, 2019 by evebushman Leave a Comment

The mission (of the Garagiste wine festivals) is to support the small guys and girls who don’t have big marketing budgets or the time to get out there and sell their wine. These small-lot wines can be very hard to find. Over 60% of these winemakers don’t have a tasting room…

Jenny Kalina and me at event.

However, on July 9 dozens of these small wineries took center stage and commandeered the full auditorium of the LA Wiltern Theatre for an audience of appreciative wine learners and tasters. (Check them out here in this YouTube slideshow.)

Learning On The Stage:

Understanding Oak Varieties, Tasting the Winemaker’s Spice Rack

What does oak really taste like? French oak, American oak, neutral oak, heavy toast… these are some of the words we hear all the time in the wine world, but what do they really mean? How do you tell the flavor of oak from the flavor of the wine itself?

Ryan Render, representative for French tonnellerie (another word for a cooperage, which is also another word for a barrel maker) Cadus and winemaker at Rendarrio Vineyards, Larner Vineyards winemaker Michael Larner and Garagiste co-founder Stewart McLennan led our class.

Our first flight was the same grape, same year, same winery in three different oak expressions: a Larner 2014 Syrah. The aromas on each were remarkably different to me. With neutral oak (which means the oak barrel had been used four to five times and would no longer impart an oak flavor) the wine had the brightest, reddest fruit. The second wine, aged in French oak and is used the most by Larner, had an incredible amount of spice, which I happen to love in a Syrah, and bluer fruit. The third oak was American and gave off a creamy scent with a lot of blue to black fruit.

(Chatting with a friend after the class who doesn’t reside in California but is a huge fan of the event and flies down for it, she said that she preferred the American oak the best. I asked if she drank much French wine. She said none at all, mostly Paso Robles. So I thought that her preference might have been due to what her palate was used to in her home state and from Paso. Though like Larner there are California wineries using French oak too.)

Our next trio to taste was of another wine, a Cabernet Sauvignon, in unoaked (stainless steel only), a medium grain oak barrel and then a tight grain oak barrel. Again I got some interesting notes. In the unoaked wine it was all red fruit (like it had been in the neutral oak we had tasted earlier), the medium grain gave off distinct aromas of a sweet Port wine and blueberry, while the tight grain was all cigar smoke and had what one winemaker called a “tighter” feel on the palate.

Auditorium: Favorites from the “RARE and RESERVE” Tasting Hour

Archium Cellars 2012 “Haven” Grenache, Stolpman Vineyard.

Artisan Uprising 2014 Tempranillo.

Brian Benson Cellars 2013 Mr. Pickled Cabernet Syrah blend.

Caldera Cuvee 2009.

Cholame Vineyard vertical tasting of Bull Pen Tempranillo 2010/2011/2012 with the 2012 being my favorite of the three.

Cloak & Dagger Wines 2013 “The Assassin” Cabernet Sauvignon Syrah blend.

Deno Wines 2010 Two Bill’s Zinfandel Grenache blend.

JP3 Wines (the “JP” formerly of Stanger) 2013 Pinot Noir, Willow Creek.

MCV Wines 2013 Black Petite Sirah blend

Pagter Bros. Winery 2013 Lucky Club Syrah Reserve

Paso Port 2006 Violeta blend of Touriga, Tinta Cao and Souzao.

The Farm Winery 2010 “the Big Game” Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon blend.

Vines on the Marycrest 2006 Field Blend, Victor Abascal’s first planting.

Favorites Wineries of the Day are highlighted:

Alma Fria Winery, Alma Sol Winery, Alta Colina, Archium Cellars, Artisan Uprising, Ascension Cellars, Bellissimo Cellars, Bodega De Edgar, EVERYTHING THEY POURED at Brian Benson Cellars, Brophy Clark Cellars, Caldera Cuvee, Caliza Winery, The Central Coast Group Project, Chene Wines, Cholame Vineyards, Cloak & Dagger Wines, Cordon Wines, Coruce Vineyards, Deno Wines, Dreamcote Wines, El Lugar Wines, Golden Triangle, Graef Wines, EVERYTHING THEY POURED at Hoi Polloi Winery, Hoyt Family Vineyards, JP3 Wines, Kaena Wine Co., Kaleidos Winery, Kimmel Vineyards, Larner Vineyard and Winery, Leverage Wines, Marin’s Vineyard, MCV Wines, On Your Left Wines, Pagter Bros. Winery, Per Cazo Cellars/Paso Port, Powell Mountain Cellars, Press Gang Cellars, Prizm Winery, Pulchella Winery, Ranchita Canyon, Rendarrio Vineyards, Rhythm Wines, Ryan Cochrane Wines, Tao Vineyards, EVERYTHING THEY POURED at The Farm Winery, EVERYTHING THEY POURED at Theopolis Vineyards, Tierra y Vino, Tlo Wines, Trail Marker Wine Co., Turiya Wines, EVERYTHING THEY POURED at TW Fermentation Co., Two Shepherds, Vinemark Cellars, Vines on the Marycrest, Weatherborne and West of Temperance.

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

Temecula’s Hall of Fame Inductee

June 13, 2019 by evebushman Leave a Comment

TEMECULA, Calif. (PRWEB) – Temecula Valley vintners were proud to introduce the latest Hall of Fame inductee at the 36th Annual Grape Day conference held on April 18, 2019 at South Coast Winery in Temecula, California. The inductee honored was the late Ben R. Drake, owner of Drake Enterprises, Inc., a Temecula-based farm management company, and a long-time board member of the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association.

Hart Winery.

The Temecula Valley Winegrowers Hall of Fame was introduced in 2016 by Phil Baily, owner of Baily Winery and current President of the Board for the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association (TVWA). The first inductees into the Hall of Fame were Vince & Audrey Cilurzo and John Moramarco. At the time, Baily noted “The recent passing of wine country pioneer Vince Cilurzo prompted the TVWA Board of Directors to consider ways we could honor his memory. In discussing this, we realized that other pioneers should be recognized, most notably Audrey Cilurzo, because Vince and Audrey partnered in their accomplishments. John Moramarco was unquestionably the key leader of our rise in the 1960s and for the following thirty-plus years.”

Since that time, the association’s Board of Directors has inducted the late John Poole and his son, Peter Poole, who founded and operated Mount Palomar Winery for over two decades, as well as Ely Callaway, founder of Callaway Vineyard & Winery and of Callaway Golf fame.

“This year’s Hall of Fame inductee was similarly accomplished and very well respected within Temecula Valley’s wine community and we’re very appreciative of his effort on behalf of all of us,” stated Phil Baily. Ben’s long service as a member and Chairman of the California Association of Winegrape Growers, and his service as a state-wide leader in the fight against Pierce’s Disease brought recognition and respect to our Valley. To many in our industry, Ben was Temecula. He was one of the three or four key players who did the most to grow the reputation of the Temecula Valley Wine Country.”

Ben was a fifth-generation farmer in Riverside County and a resident of Temecula since 1973. Ben founded Drake Enterprises, Inc., 40 years ago. They currently manage 750 acres of avocados and 450 acres of winegrapes in the Temecula Valley. Ben passed away this past November.

Ben accomplished much in his professional career, including being a long-time Board member and President of the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association, President of the Rancho California Water District Board of Directors, Past Chairman of California Association of Winegrape Growers and Past President of Riverside County Farm Bureau, just to name a few.

When asked about Ben’s contributions to Temecula’s thriving wine region, the TVWA’s Executive Director, Krista Chaich said, “It’s hard to know where to start when talking about Ben’s contributions to the success of Temecula Valley Wine Country. He was a tremendous leader and an ardent supporter of our wine region. Most notably, his leadership and guidance were never more apparent than when our winegrape growers were faced with the devastating loss of vineyards due to Pierce’s Disease, a bacterial infection that nearly wiped out our wine country. Ben called upon the State of California to assist in the fight against Pierce’s Disease through significant funding and helped to set up task forces and treatment and research programs. Many of us believe that had it not been for Ben’s efforts, our wine country wouldn’t be the thriving and award-winning wine region that it is today.”

“Ben served on our Board of Directors for several years and as the Board President from 2014 through 2016. During this time, he fiercely protected both our winery owners and wine grape growers and consistently put the best interests of our entire wine region first. Ben is missed tremendously, and this recognition is well deserved.”

Ben’s wife, Sharon, his daughters Katie and Courtney, his son-in-law JD Harkey, his three grandsons and his long-time assistant, Kathleen were on hand to accept the award on Ben’s behalf.

About the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association
Temecula Valley is the largest and most commercially successful winegrowing region in the South Coast AVA, the viticultural zone spanning more than 2 million acres from Riverside County to the San Diego border. The Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association has long served as a steward of the Southern California wine community. Comprising 38 wineries and more than 60 winegrowers, the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association is a nonprofit regional organization dedicated to increasing awareness of the quality wines and wine grapes grown in the Temecula Valley and South Coast Appellations. Established in 1984, the Temecula Valley AVA consists of 33,000 acres, of which approximately 2,600 acres are currently planted to commercial vineyards. Known as Southern California’s wine country, the Temecula Valley is located in Riverside County just one hour from San Diego, Orange County and Palm Springs and 90 minutes from Los Angeles. For more information on the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association, visit http://www.temeculawines.org.

Blanc De Blancs Event June 19

June 10, 2019 by evebushman

Beverly Hills, California – wineLA presents Los Angeles’ premier white wine showcasing event, Blanc de Blancs, a tasting par excellence in all white decor and attire at The Peninsula Beverly Hills on June 19.

A spectacular occasion for both the burgeoning and seasoned enthusiast, Blanc de Blancs provides an experiential glimpse into the refinements of the white wine category, featuring an abundant procession of educationally-driven seminars and experiences, as well as a Grand Tasting of over 100 white wines at this elegant, all white themed affair!

● Educational seminars and experiences
● All white attire
● All white decor
● All white wineProducers Featured: Dom Pérignon, Ruinart, Moët & Chandon, Laurent-Perrier, La Crema, Cambria Estate, Brewer-Clifton, Seabold Cellars, Copain Wines, Champagne Henriot, Bouchard Père et Fils, William Fèvre, Stonestreet, Matanzas Creek, Bernardus, Mail Road, Cloudy Bay, Newton, LAW Estate, J.J. Vincent, Cuvaison, Pol Roger, Domaine Faiveley, Pascal Jolivet, Famille Hugel, Olivier Leflaive, Hecht & Bannier, Long Meadow Ranch, Stony Hill, Domaine Schlumberger, Famille Perrin, Miraval Provence, Château De Beaucastel, La Vieille Ferme, Domaine & Maison Alexandrins, Schloss Lieser, Reichsrat Von Buhl, Weingut Pfeffingen, Weingut Ökonomierat Rebholz, Schäfer-Fröhlich, Hans Wirsching, Becker Estate.
Consumer tickets & packages range from $50-$300. Grand tasting, special sessions and seminar experiences are available for individual purchase, listed below.

11am – Champagne Session
The celebration starts with a POP! Hosted by Master Sommelier, Christopher Miller, leading a discussion on Luxury and Prestige Cuvées and the future of Champagne in the wine industry, and in the world. Ambassadors and experts sample and explore wines from Dom Pérignon – Plenitude 2, Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs 2007, Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage 2009, Champagne Henriot Vintage 2008, Laurent-Perrier Grand Siecle MV, Champagne Pol Roger Cuvée Prestige Sir Winston Churchill 2006. Only a few tickets are available for this gathering.

12pm – Chardonnay Salon
Master Sommelier Nick Metsel will lead the topic of “Typicity, Terroir, and Tells,” and will be joined by winemakers, brand ambassadors and experts, such as, Greg Brewer of Brewer-Clifton, Steven Rogstad of Cuvaison, Chris Miller (Seabold), William Fèvre, Cuvaison, and Newton Vineyard.

1:30pm – Autres Blancs is hosted by Master Sommelier and Seabold Cellars (CA) winemaker Chris Miller, joined by the representatives of Cloudy Bay (New Zealand), Pascal Jolivet, Mosel Riesling, Domaine Schlumberger, and Perrin Family (Rhône, FR) providing industry insights on “other” whites.

2pm – Medi-Tasting hosted by international speaker and mindfulness educator, Elisha Goldstein Ph.D., is Champagne Henriot’s creation of a unique fusion on the art of tasting and meditation. Showcasing: Champagne Henriot’s Blanc de Blancs NV, Vintage 2008, and Hemera 2005.

3pm – Winemaker Panel is sponsored by Jackson Family Wines. Greg Brewer (Brewer-Clifton/Diatom), Jill Russell (Cambria) and Jen Walsh (La Crema) showcase Chardonnays from California regions Sta. Rita Hills, Santa Maria Valley, and Anderson Valley in a discussion of the evolution of the American Chardonnay palate and palette. As consumer awareness increases for the “other-than-fruit” characteristics of which this rarified variety is capable, the conversation around food pairing, style, pricing and service morphs before our eyes…again!

The 5pm VIP+ Ticket includes the Champagne Henriot Medi-Tasting session hosted by international speaker and mindfulness educator, Elisha Goldstein Ph.D. Wines showcased: Champagne Henriot’s Brut Souverain NV, Blanc de Blancs NV, and Vintage 2008. This ticket provides early access to the Grand Tasting, including the 6pm entry special hour of luxury Cuvées and served with a buffet dinner.

The 6pm Ticket includes access to the Grand Tasting with an exclusive tasting hour of Luxury Cuvées from Dom Pérignon, Laurent-Perrier, Pol Roger, Champagne Henriot, and Ruinart; served with a buffet dinner.

The 7pm Ticket provides access to the Grand Tasting paired with tray-passed appetizers and the opportunity to bid in the The T.J. Martell Foundation silent auction containing collectable and large format wines.

The 9pm patio after-party concludes with desserts and live music by Alanna & These Fine Gentlemen.

For more information about Blanc de Blancs or to purchase tickets – visit www.blancdeblancsla.com Ticket prices subject to change as the event date approaches.

About wineLA

wineLA is about enhancing the wine culture of Los Angeles one event at a time. To do so, wine must be in rhythm with food, fashion, and music, while also reflecting the geography, architecture and atmosphere of centers of interest. Los Angeles is a giant playground with an amazing array of venues, spaces, wine bars, restaurants, beaches, rooftops, gardens, and magical views. We are a part of the L.A. lifestyle, the wine lifestyle, and we celebrate the people, the places and the passion!

About T.J. Martell Foundation
A silent auction containing many collectable and large format wines 100% benefits T.J. Martell Foundation, the music industry’s largest charity funding innovative medical research focused on finding cures for children’s leukemia, cancer and AIDS. The charity sources and supports early-stage research projects aimed at developing more effective clinical treatments for patients who otherwise might not be supported. Learn more at tjmartell.org.

About The Peninsula Hotel:

The only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star-rated hotel in Southern California every year since 1993, The Peninsula Beverly Hills offers 194 guest rooms, including 38 suites and 16 private villas, nestled among lush tropical gardens in the heart of Beverly Hills. The Peninsula is located at the intersection of Wilshire and South Santa Monica Boulevards and within comfortable walking distance from the legendary Rodeo Drive.

https://www.winela.com/blanc-de-blancs

Winners of 2019 Experience Rosé Competition Announced + The Great Rosé Pairing for Summer on June 22

June 8, 2019 by evebushman

Photo: Experience Rose Facebook page

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Debra Del Fiorentino, Founder of Wine Competitions Management & Productions, in conjunction with Craig Palmer and Allen Habel, co-founders of Experience Rosé (formerly Rosé Today), are pleased to announce the results from Experience Rosé: The 2019 Competition, held at Soda Rock Winery in Healdsburg, California on Wednesday, May 1. Directed by globally-renowned wine expert and educator Del Fiorentino, Experience Rosé: The 2019 Competition drew just under 400 entries of domestic and international rosé wines, making it the largest wine competition dedicated to Rosé in the Unites States. The public’s first opportunity to sample some of these award-winning wines in one festival-setting will be on Saturday, June 22, at The Great Rosé Infusion of Summer event, to be held at Soda Rock Winery.

“Our judging is committed to the highest standards of competition,” explains Debra Del Fiorentino, who attracts a world-class panel of judges for the Competition. “The Experience Rosé judging seeks the very best in dry, a little sweet and sparkling styles that pair quality winemaking with the passion for rosé and its infinite possibilities.”

Experience Rosé is one of only a handful of U.S. competitions exclusively focused on identifying excellence in rosé wine, domestic and international, all styles. Due to the increased number of this year’s entries, the competition is now considered the largest rosé competition being held in the U.S. “This put a real feather in our cap,” states Del Fiorentino. “The art of creating great Rosé wines has fast-tracked within the industry as illustrated with more than 27% more entries than last year. We couldn’t be more delighted.”

The esteemed panel of judges awarded five Best of Show awards, nine Best of Class designations, 22 double gold and 61 gold medals.

Top honors and Best of Show went to the Balletto Vineyards 2018 Rosé of Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, estate grown, bottled and produced. Described as a domestic dry rosé with tasting notes of cantaloupe, sun warmed strawberries, raspberries and rose petals, the wine garnered 94 points.

Other Best of Class winners include:

· Best of Show and Best of Class Domestic Dry: Balletto Vineyards, Rosé of Pinot Noir 2018
· Best of Class and Double Gold
o Domestic Sparkling: J Vineyards Brut Rosé
o Domestic Sweet: Jolee Wines, Rosé Jolee
o International Dry: Le Grand Courtage, Trés Chic Rosé
o International Sparkling: Risata Wines, Sparkling Rosé
· Best of Class and Double Gold
o Soda Rock Winery Rosé
o Hungry Hawk Vineyards Rosé
o Le Grand Noir Rosé
o Balverne, Rosé of Pinot Noir Reserve
· Best Domestic Cider, Gold: Urban Tree Rosé

Results were announced at an intimate gathering held at Soda Rock Winery on Thursday, May 2, following the judging. About 10 wineries, all Competition gold-and-above medal winners, poured and convened with a select group of industry influencers, media, and event sponsors and producers.

To view a complete list of 2019 winners, visit https://www.winecompetitions.com/experiencerose or http://rosewinetoday.com/2019-competition/.

Gold-and-above winners in the competition are invited to showcase their wines in The Great Rosé Infusion of Summer, to be held Saturday, June 16 at Soda Rock Winery in Healdsburg.

The Soda Rock event begins at 11 a.m. with an extraordinary Experience exclusively for VIP guests, titled “Rosé Without Cliché.” Thomas DeBiase (Idlewild Wines) will host a panel of distinctive winemakers pouring signature rosés that forever assert the commanding authenticity and captivating individuality rose’ can bring. Winemakers pouring and presenting their wines include Jeff Runquist (Jeff Runquist Wines, Amador), Antoine Favero (Wilson Artisan Wines, Sonoma and Mendocino), and Rick Moshin (Moshin Vineyards, Sonoma).

During the public event, from noon to 4 p.m., guests can expect to taste more than two dozen different rosés, in spaciously set-out themed tasting areas on the picturesque and historic grounds of Soda Rock Winery. Tasting areas are designed to illustrate how readily rosé pairs with so many different cuisines, and guest chefs will be on hand presenting delicious bites. French-trained chef Marc-Henri Jean-Baptiste (Mason Porcella) will serve elegant charcuterie offerings; Melissa Yanc, Healdsburg’s wildly acclaimed artisan baker, brings a tantalizing array of her mouth-watering artisan breads from her Quail and Condor; and Brian Bank will be showcasing his popular new BBQ hot spot in Fairfax, Way Station. By popular demand, Steel Jam has been invited back to fill the event with the exuberance of steel drum.

“There is a burgeoning appetite for all things rosé,” states Experience Rosé Founder and Co-Producer Craig Palmer. “Our goal is to showcase excellence, and the Competition sets that standard. This year we evaluated not only the best in rosé wines, but in rosé-infused spirits, beers and ciders. This is a first-of-its-kind idea for a public event.”

Early bird tickets are available now at experiencerose.com. VIP: $125; General Admission: $85; Designated Driver: $45. Tickets for The Great Rosé Pairing for Summer can be purchased by visiting www.experiencerose.com. For information about other Experience Rosé event, please visit www.experiencerose.com. Like Experience Rosé on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/experiencerosewine/.

Experience Rosé is proud to thank its Presenting Sponsor, Bank of Marin, and Hosting Sponsors: Soda Rock Winery, Jeff Runquist Wines, Spirited, and Wine Competitions Management.

About Wine Competitions Management & Production (WCPM) and Libations Logistics
Based in Santa Rosa, Calif., WCM&P is an independently owned and operated adult beverage competition company with a uniquely designed portfolio to appeal to a niche market based on its regional or otherwise defined style of judging. Its wine competitions include the prestigious world-renowned Sunset International Wine Competition, The Press Democrat North Coast Wine Challenge, Harvest Challenge, West Coast Wine Competition, International Eastern Wine Competition, East Meets West, International Women’s Wine Competition, and the Craft Distillers Spirits Competition. It also operates the Mendocino Cider Competition and manages Dan Berger’s International Wine Competition. See website at www.winecompetitions.com.

About Soda Rock Winery
Nestled in Sonoma County’s scenic Alexander Valley, Soda Rock Winery offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy an eclectic mix of wine-country experiences. Sip a delicious array of wines with a focus on Bordeaux varietals. View the splendid surroundings and appreciate the historical buildings that have been beautifully restored using green building and recycling practices. Soda Rock is the original site of the Alexander Valley general store and post office, and was once the central hub of activity for the valley. Historic records provide evidence of the first bonded winery on this property in 1880. With a large line-up of Cabernet Sauvignons and Bordeaux varietals, Soda Rock wines are big and bold, just like its historic past.

Raise Your Glass as HATCH Yakitori + Bar Introduces Cracking New Cocktail Bar

June 5, 2019 by evebushman

Los Angeles, CA – With their first anniversary just around the corner, DTLA’s HATCH Yakitori + Bar raises their glass and kicks-off the celebration by introducing a cracking new Cocktail Bar!

Photo Credit: Jacob Layman

Centrally located in DTLA’s The Bloc, a vibrant, open-air metropolitan center with its own access to the 7th Street Metro Station, HATCH Yakitori + Bar is the vision of Owner-Partners Akarad “AK” Tachavatcharapa, Nara Latip, and Executive Chef Daniel Shemtob. These hip-hop jammin’, globe-trottin’, food and drink lovin’ “Yakitori Boyz” created an urban nest for the burgeoning DTLA community and commuter’s alike; an oasis to congregate, rejuvenate, and celebrate with progressive Japanese cuisine and unrivaled new Bar Program that includes handcrafted Cocktails, meticulously curated Sake List, select premium Japanese Whisky, and eclectic Japanese Beer Menu, poising HATCH Yakitori + Bar as a not-to-be-missed drinking destination among the ever-evolving landscape of Downtown Los Angeles. The new Cocktail Bar features seating for lucky guests to get a premium view of the bartenders working on their craft, while the standing side bar welcomes guests looking to stretch their legs after a long day sitting in the office. The man behind the bar, Bar Director James Fastiggi set off to shake and stir things up as he first embarked on a culinary journey to better understand Partner and Executive Chef Daniel Shemtob’s menu. “I learned everything about the food before I even thought about the cocktails,” says Fastiggi. “Comprehending the menu was key to developing the cocktail menu.” With this epicurean education as his foundation, Fastiggi confidently moved forward to expand his knowledge on Japanese spirits, building the menu outward from his tutelage. “There is a Japanese twist to each of these cocktails, all of which beautifully compliment the overall Hatch Yakitori and Bar Menu.”

Paired with food or enjoyed on their own, eight thirst-quenching bangin’ Cocktails are ready to drop, like the Matcha Highball made with Iwai Whisky, coconut lemongrass nigori, lemon juice, house-made honey syrup and matcha powder, or the Yuzu Sour offering guests a refreshing twist on a reliable standby, prepared with Iwai Whisky, yuzu liqueur, lemon juice, simple syrup and a fresh creamy egg white. The shocking pink For Goodness “Sake” receives its vivacious color from the splash of prickly pear juice, also featuring dry sake, Tito’s vodka, lychee juice and pear syrup, while the sweet and spicy Mangorita is comprised of Lunazul Tequila, house-made mango syrup, agave nectar, lime juice, orange bitters, and serrano pepper. Guests will be too furious if they are too fast when drinking the Tokyo Drift driven by Kaiyo Whisky, Angostura & orange bitters, and magic sauce (a citrus laden elixir) developed by Fastiggi which was based on a savory sauce originally created by Chef de Cuisine Erick Cielo. The Rum Tum Tum begins with house-made tepache, a beverage of Mexican origins in which pineapples are fermented for seven days before spices are added, and then joined by Greenbar Spiced Rum, lemon juice, Demerara syrup and Angostura bitters. Intriguing as it is innovative, the Wassup Bae is made with Roku Gin, wasabi, cucumber, lemon juice, lemongrass syrup and charcoal salt rim. Says Fastiggi, “When a guest requests a drink outside of the box, the Wassup Bae is where I will direct them.” Finally, for those feeling adventurous or indecisive there is the Bartender’s Choice, a special weekly cocktail crafted by Fastiggi to keep his creativity sharp and offer regulars something new.

HATCH Yakitori + Bar exclusively sources a myriad of Sake equally approachable for the sake novice and enticing for the sake connoisseur. Available on draft or carafe is the Bushido: Way of the Warrior, paying homage to the code of honor and morals developed by the Japanese samurai that stresses loyalty, self-discipline, and bravery. By bottle or carafe, the Junmai Sake selections are ready for guests to imbibe including the aromatic and ultra-dry Itami Onigoroshi: Demon Slayer, the light and mild Shintaro: Imperial Loyalist, the clean and crisp Joto Nigori, or the Hatch Organic brewed right here in California. The Ginjo style sake selection includes the delicately complex Gokujo: The Excellence, while AK is personally excited to introduce guests to the almighty Ryujin: Dragon God, noted for its vibrance and full-bodied flavor. Finally, Junmai Daiginjo, the highest caliber of sake categories begins with the award-winning Soto: The Outside, or the highly sought after Kitaya Kanasansui: Cold Mountain Water. Finally, for true aficionados, HATCH Yakitori + Bar offers guests a miracle with the Kimurashiki Kiseki: Miracle Sake, certified organic and produced under the supervision of Akimori Kimura, the pioneer of modern organic farming methods in Japan.

HATCH Yakitori + Bar also offers a new highly curated selection of premium Japanese Whisky, such as the Mars Iwai, with tasting notes of pear, quince, red fruits and vanilla. Matured in the finest Japanese handmade mizunara oak casks, Kaiyo Mizunara Oak spends the last leg of their maturation at sea, the salt air and ebb and flow of the tides enriching the whisky. Named by Forbes as one of the “10 Japanese Whiskies To Try Now,” the Akashi White Oak hails from Japan’s smallest whisky distillery, where only two months out of the year are dedicated to whisky production. Blended from whiskies matured in oak for 10 years, Yame Eight Goddesses 10 Yr is inspired by the mythical Yametsu Hime protector of the mountainous beauty of the Yame Region, home of the famed Kitaya Distillery. Dubbed a ‘worldwide blended whisky’, Ichiro’s Malt & Grain is comprised of whiskies from distilleries in Scotland, Canada, U.S.A., England, and Ireland, as well as young malt and grain whisky stock from the legendary king of Japanese distilling, Ichiro Akuto. HATCH prides themselves on being able to offer rare, high-end whisky, such as Ichiro’s Malt Chichibu “The US Edition”, a highly-limited single malt release made specifically for the US market from the extremely sought-after Ichiro Akuto Chichibu Distillery. Dry and honeyed with gentle oak spice and Tahitian vanilla, Mars Lucky Cat “Mint” Whisky is limited to less than 4,000 bottles, while the Mars Komagatake Limited Edition 2018 is aged entirely in Shinshu, the highest elevation of any distillery in Japan, creating a noticeable influence on this unique whisky’s taste.

If Beer is more your brew, HATCH Yakitori + Bar has an array of beers on Draft: Asahi, Sapporo, Orion, and Kirin, as well as select offerings that may inspire guests to expand their tastes including Coedo Shiro Hefeweizen Wheat Beer, Samurai Blonde Ale, Delicious IPA, and the Cali Creamin’ Vanilla Cream Ale. Two varieties from the Kyoto Brewing Company kick off the Bottle selections beginning with the Kyoto Matcha IPA, followed by the Kyoto Kuromame Black Soybean Ale. At 8% alcohol content the Hitachino Ginger Brew is not your Mama’s ginger ale, although let us not forget its slightly herbaceous sibling, the Hitachino White Ale. Brewed from kintoki sweet potatoes, the award-winning Coedo Beniaka Sweet Potato Ale is earthy and rich, while the equally acclaimed Coedo Shikkoku Black Lager boasts an enchantingly smooth elegance. It’s in the Can with the Yona Yona: Every Night Pale Ale, made with premium Cascade hops, and the Suiyoubi No Neko: Wednesday Cat White Ale is smooth enough to get guests through every day of the week. If Wine is the only way to wind down, there is selection of California Wines and one deliciously unorthodox Chinese wine. Adventurous minds are encouraged to inquire within.

There is no better companion to a cool libation than Happy Hour and Partner and Executive Chef Daniel Shemtob has pulled out all of the stops to deliver guests one solid hour of discounted gluttonous glory. Guests can enjoy Oysters, Chilled, Grilled, or Fried accompanied by ume mignoette, Sticks like Breast and Plum, Thigh & Miso, and Mushroom Party, or the Plates with selections such as the Black Karaage, with two day brined chicken thighs, squid ink, house pickles, grilled lime, and black ranch dip, or Miso Pork Spare Ribs, featuring slow cooked pork ribs, miso caramel, spice blend, and green onions. During this happiest hour, a selection of Drinks including Draft and House Sake, Wine by the Glass and Beer by the Glass will also be available at special prices.

Whether your glass holds the liquid amber of Japanese Whisky, the aqueous ambrosia of a perfectly chilled Sake, or a meticulously crafted Cocktail, raise it high and give a mighty, “Kanpai!” to the bangin’ New Cocktail Bar at HATCH Yakitori + Bar!

HATCH Yakitori + Bar is open for Lunch every Tuesday through Friday from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm, and for Dinner every Monday through Thursday from 5:00 to 10:00 pm, every Friday from 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm, every Saturday from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm, and every Sunday from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Happy Hour is every Monday through Friday from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm. For more information or reservations, please visit www.HatchYakitori.com or call HATCH Yakitori + Bar directly at 213.282.9070.

Please follow HATCH Yakitori + Bar on Facebook @hatchyakitori and Instagram @hatchyakitori

HATCH Yakitori + Bar

700 West 7^th Street, suite G600

Los Angeles, CA 90017

T: 213.282.9070

www.HatchYakitori.com

Toscana Restaurant Celebrates 30th Anniversary in Brentwood

June 3, 2019 by evebushman

LOS ANGELES, California – Mike and Kathie Gordon, owners of Toscana, the extremely popular Tuscan restaurant in Brentwood with a devoted following of food-lovers, celebrate their 30^th year in business this year. In tribute, they’ve planned a week-long nod to their original menu from 1989 that started the story. Festivities begin Monday, June 10 and continue through Sunday, June 16, 2019, when the Gordons and the Toscana team invite their regulars and the public to join the festivities. The Toscana kitchen will offer their classic dishes of Salsicce all’ Uccelletto; Ravioli Radicchio; Scampi e Fagioli; Pollo al Mattone; Costolette d’Agnello alla Trevisana; and Florentina ala Bracie, among others that were featured on the opening of the restaurant and continue to be favorites to this day. The Gordons will be in-house nightly to personally greet their many loyal guests and to welcome new customers. In appreciation of many years of loyalty, they have created a special memento as a gift of thanks to the diners.

While looking back over the three decades, the Gordons have set their eyes to the future with an energized kitchen team. Newly installed Executive Chef Luca Crestanelli of Toscana’s sister restaurant S.Y. Kitchen in Santa Ynez will bring inspiration to the classic Tuscan cuisine. Working closely with Crestanelli is the recently recruited Samuele Minin as Chef de Cuisine. The two collaborate on Toscana’s menu and daily specials, infusing them with their Italian traditions along with the flavors and ingredients of Southern California’s markets.

Toscana was quietly opened in April 1989 by first-time restaurateurs Mike and Kathie Gordon and musician Doc Severinsen, who dreamed of creating a modest Italian trattoria in their neighborhood where friends and family could come together to eat the simple, delicious food they found in the small towns and kitchens of Tuscany. The trattoria’s success exceeded all expectations from the start. The cozy yet lively environment was discovered and soon populated by celebrities, industry leaders, politicians and athletes, along with locals and visitors from around the world. Dining on the clean, flavorful dishes of Toscana encouraged their clientele to return often; typically an average of several times a week.

The Gordons found it gratifying when their customers began bringing family and business associates for gatherings of their own. Every year, Director Michael Mann hosts a special dinner for all of the Oscar-nominated directors during the exciting week leading up to the Academy Awards. Just a few years back, Composer and Producer David Foster needed a place for a last-minute respite for acclaimed musical artists Andrea Bocelli, Josh Groban, Barbara Streisand and others following a long day’s rehearsal for the Grammys, and brought them to Toscana to relax and share dinner. Long-time patrons have had yearly multi-generational birthday and anniversary celebrations throughout all three decades. Today, grandkids of the original regulars are some of Toscana’s favorite guests.

From the moment the colorful, signature Pinzimonio (Italian-style crudité) arrives at the table to nurture everyone with a first bite, to the farewell thank-yous from the staff, everyone is treated like family. The Gordons’ warm and welcoming personalities inspire the style of the friendly and professional staff – the dear Alberto, now retired to Italy, and Mark, Max, Roby and Emilio among the others – many of them have been working at Toscana since opening day. Thirty years later, the restaurant continues to thrive and buzzes daily with the electricity of anticipation of another wonderful meal.

The talented culinary team at Toscana has firm Italian roots. Executive Chef Luca Crestanelli was born and raised in Verona, Italy, where he received his Culinary Arts degree. Luca’s career has taken him across the globe which helped refine his epicurean sensibilities through exploration and hands-on discovery of regional cooking styles. After stints at Vincenti in Brentwood and positions as a private chef, he was invited to work for the Gordon family, launching Bar Toscana in 2010. In 2013 the three partnered to open a third restaurant, S.Y. Kitchen in Santa Ynez, California, where he is based today. Born in the small town of Griis di Bicinicco in northern Italy, Chef de Cuisine Samuele Minin grew up in his family’s restaurant, learning how to create traditional plates from his parents. He moved to the United States as a young teenager with an abundance of energy and a drive to learn from seasoned Italian chefs around the country. Since arriving in California in 2010, he’s proudly opened several restaurants – and most recently served as sous chef at Nerano, Toscana’s sister restaurant in Beverly Hills.

The Gordons are grateful for the longevity of their restaurant and are actively involved in the management of Toscana, the adjacent Bar Toscana, Nerano in Beverly Hills and S.Y. Kitchen in Santa Ynez, California where they have a home.“As Toscana looks to the future, it continues to retain whatever is good from the past,” states Mike and Kathie Gordon. “We feel as if we belong to a special part of the world where each generation is connected to all the ones that went before.”

TOSCANA 30^th ANNIVERSARY MENU
served daily from Monday, June 10 through Saturday, June 15, 2019

TOSCANA 30^th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Monday, June 10 through Sunday, June 16, 2019

Lunch at Toscana:

Monday – Saturday 11:30 am – 3:00 pm

Sundays 11:30 am – 2:00 pm

Dinner at Toscana:

Monday – Thursday 5:30 pm – 10:30 pm

Friday – Saturday 5:30 pm – 11:00 pm

Sunday 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm

TOSCANA

11633 San Vicente Blvd #100

Los Angeles, CA 90049

310.820.2448

Become a Fan of TOSCANA on Facebook: www.facebook.com/toscanabrentwood

Keep up with TOSCANA on Instagram: @toscanabrentwood

Follow TOSCANA on Twitter: @TOSCANA1989

www.toscanabrentwood.com

Mammoth Festival of Beers and Bluesapalooza Announces Their 2019 Lineup

June 1, 2019 by evebushman

MAMMOTH LAKES, Calif. (PRWEB) – The 24th Annual Mammoth Festival of Beers and Bluesapalooza in Mammoth Lakes, California is gearing up for its High Sierra summer party with four days of music and two days of craft beer tasting, August 1st-4th, outdoors among the pines at The Woods at Mammoth Lakes.

More than 20 internationally known bands will perform on two stages including seven-time Grammy award winner Buddy Guy, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe, Jimmie Vaughan, Charlie Musselwhite, Popa Chubby, Mindi Abair & The Boneshakers, Sugaray Rayford, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Southern Avenue, Shamarr Allen & The Underdawgs, Sal’s Greenhouse, Dirty Cello, Emily Wolfe, Reverend Tall Tree & The Blackstrap Brothers, Kings & Associates, Chris Pierce, Katie Henry Band, The Sextones, and more.

“At 8,000 feet, our festival unites the best in craft beer and legendary blues at altitude,” says Sean Turner of Mammoth Brewing Company, host brewery of the event. “This year’s lineup is an incredible mix of celebrated blues performers and some emerging new acts.”

The Mammoth Festival of Beers boasts two days of beer tastings, both Saturday (12pm-5pm) and Sunday (12pm-4pm), showcasing more than 70+ breweries pouring over 200 beers, ciders, and hard kombuchas. A sampling of breweries include Mammoth Brewing Company, Figueroa Mountain Brewing, Eel River Brewing, Firestone Walker, Great Divide Brewing Co, San Diego, Sierra Nevada, Stone, and many, many more. The event benefits the California Craft Brewers Association, Infinite Music, One Tree Planted, and local nonprofit organizations. Along with the beer and blues, a variety of food purveyors will be on site. And for those that prefer grapes to hops, Paso Robles winery Castoro Cellars will be offering their signature wines.

Multi-day tickets are the festival’s best buy and those that purchase the Blues/Brews Ultimate Pass receive early entry to the festival and beer tastings each day.

Advance tickets are on sale and the festival is expected to sell out. Tickets are available online at http://www.MammothBluesBrewsFest.com/tickets; and locally at the Mammoth Brewing Company Tasting Room. For updates and additional information, visit http://www.MammothBluesBrewsFest.com, or call 888-99-BREWS (992-7397).

The Woods at Mammoth Lakes, is located at 5701 Minaret Road between Main Street and Meridian Boulevard. Mammoth Lakes is a mountain resort located near Yosemite National Park in the Eastern High Sierra off Highway 395, offering world-class golf courses, mountain biking, fishing, hiking, and resort facilities. For additional information about camping or local accommodations, call 800-GO MAMMOTH or visit http://www.visitmammoth.com or http://www.mammothbluesbrewsfest.com/lodging.

Twenty-four years ago, Mammoth Festival of Beers and Bluesapalooza started in the parking lot of Whiskey Creek Restaurant in Mammoth Lakes, CA with just ten breweries and a couple of garage bands. From these humble beginnings, the event today attracts thousands of attendees from all over the world and is recognized as one of the best festivals of its kind in the United States.

Tasting and Lesson with Stacie Hunt: Mexico’s Valle de Guadalupe

May 31, 2019 by evebushman

Had the pleasure of sitting in on a lecture of the wines of the Valle de Guadalupe with the LA Wine Writers at our favorite spot for a wine paired luncheon, Napa Valley Grille, a few weeks ago. Will share what I learned and tasted below, or you can just skip to the story in photos here.

Some Things We Learned

There are over 200 years of wine history in the area, with the first grapes, table grapes, being planted before the 16^th century. Jesuit priests reactivated winemaking in the Tijuana area in 1791. In the 1800s the Dominicans came in, the Jesuits were out, and planting began north of Ensenada. By the 1900s Russian Molokans fled Russia and they too settled in Baja.

Over the years winemaking has changed due to new technology, growing techniques and water issues. (Underground aquifers are being exhausted due to drought. Drip systems can help control the salinity of the wines.) Most days reach 85 degrees, however the nights are at least 20 degrees lower and breezy. Stacie said that the fog creeps over in the morning and like a cat’s paws.

Some of the red wines being produced, with ABVs between 14-15%, include Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Cabernet Franc, Carignan, Grenache, Merlot, Malbec, Syrah, Petit Verdot, Tempranillo, Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, Barbera, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Mision, Sangiovese and other Italian reds.

Whites, with ABVs between 12-13%, include Chardonnay, Chasselas, Chenin Blanc, Macabeo (aka Viura), Muscat Blanc, Palomino, Riesling, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Mision Blanco, Albariño and a variety of Italian whites.

There are many notable wineries including Casa de Piedra, Casa Magoni, Paraleo, Mogor Badan, Monte Xanic, L.A. Cetto, Montefiore and more. There are approximately 200 bonded wineries in total.

There is no system presently, for classifications on the labels, however, like California, bottles have to be made of 75% of one singular variety to have that variety’s name on the label. The only other items on a label have to be the producer’s name, region and the alcohol content.

One of Stacie’s mentors is winemaker, educator and a leader in the field, Hugo D’Acosta. He created an educational facility for budding winemakers in El Porvenir, has vineyards in Bordeaux and Pyrenees and partners with Wente in Napa and Milagro in San Diego.

These wines are “not your daddy’s wine” Stacie said, not like the wines of Bordeaux or Italy though they share similar varieties. The terroir makes a difference in the varietal character, which you may see via my tasting notes below.

The Wine and Pairing

This four course wine paired luncheon, one of many I’ve enjoyed with the LA Wine Writers, was outstanding as usual. Below are the courses, the wines (all retail for $35 and under), notes on the wines and the pairings.

Poached Bosc Pear with Burrata and Endive

Cavas Maciel, Venus Rosa of Merlot

100% Merlot Rose

Valle de Guadalupe

Aroma: Pink grapefruit, pear, pale florals, pebbles, flint.

Flavor: Peach, crisp acidity and then palate drying, a slight salinity.

Pairing: Very refreshing on the palate.

Diver Scallop Crudo with Cucumber Brunoises, Blood Orange Reduction

Monte Xanic, Sauvignon Blanc

100% Sauvignon Blanc

Valle de Guadalupe

Aroma: Lemon-lime, fruit cocktail, white peach.

Flavor: Meyer lemon, crisp, clean and low acid.

Pairing: The fruit in the dish and in the wine made for a good pairing.

Seared Cumin Crusted Seabass, Coconut Cauliflower Puree

El Cielo, Chardonnay 2015

100% Chardonnay (oaked)

Valle de Guadalupe

Aroma: Toasted oak, butter, cream, Golden Delicious apple, rich mouthfeel with some salinity.

Flavor: Lemon, oak, hay, balanced fruit and acid.

Second wine: Vinos Lechuza, Chardonnay 2016

100% Chardonnay (stainless steel)

Valle de Guadalupe

Aroma: Unsalted butter, banana, kiwi, pale oak.

Flavor: Golden Delicious apple (again), oak, buttery with a long finish.

Pairing: I preferred the oaked Chardonnay over the stainless with this dish.

Pasta Arrabbiata with Romano Pecorino

Vinos de la Reina, Sangiovese 2015

100% Sangiovese

Valle de San Vicente

Aroma: A slight vegetal aroma blew off in a few minutes, then I got plums, perfumy, char and a dusty quality.

Flavor: Red to dark fruit, pepper, tannic, dry, jammy. (Stacie said the jammy quality comes from the heat in the area.)

Pairing: Most of the writers inhaled this pairing and who am I to argue? But maybe I was just saving myself for the grand finale.

Santa Maria Grilled Tri Tip Chimichurri, Spring Farmer’s Vegetables, Tri Tip Jus.

Vina Cava, Tempranillo 2016

100% Tempranillo

Valle de Guadalupe

Aroma: Earth, dust, blueberry, blackberry – perfume to my nose.

Flavor: Deep, dark and dusty with black fruit, char and oak. Another wine I will look for again.

Pairing: The spice in this dish enhanced the wine perfectly.

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

Top Italian Wines Tour Coming to Atlanta, San Diego, DC and Boston

May 26, 2019 by evebushman

Los Angeles, Calif. – Gambero Rosso, the global authority on Italian wine and publisher of the esteemed annual Guide to Italian Wines, will bring its international tour to four U.S. cities, including first-time events in both San Diego and Atlanta. The tour also returns to Washington D.C. and Boston for the second time.

“The U.S. is the most important market for Italian wine outside of Italy and we are very excited about expanding the Gambero Rosso tour beyond traditional markets like New York and into some of the other cities with hot restaurant scenes and an appreciation for fine wine and food,” says Marco Sabellico, editor-at-large of Gambero Rosso’s Guide to Italian Wines.

U.S. Tour Information

Washington D.C. – June 3 from 2 PM to 6 PM

Embassy of Italy, 3000 Whitehaven St NW, Washington, DC 20008

A special partnership with the Italian Trade Agency
Features two “master classes” as part of the Gambero Rosso Academy; contact sarah@gamberorosso.us to request a seat.
- 11 AM Masterclass I – Northern Italy and the Appennines
- 1 PM Masterclass II – From the Sea to the South

Boston – June 5 from 2 PM to 6 PM

The Cyclorama at Boston Center for the Arts, 539 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Atlanta – June 10 from 2 PM to 6 PM

Whitehall Ballroom at Southern Exchange Ballrooms, 200 Peachtree St, Atlanta, GA 30303

San Diego – June 12 from 2 PM to 6 PM

Building 177 – 2875 Dewey Road, San Diego CA 92106

All Gambero Rosso tour information and registration links are available online at www.gamberorosso.us.

About Vini d’Italia 2019

This year’s tour celebrates the release of Gambero Rosso’s 32nd edition of their annual guide, Vini d’Italia. Produced today in Italian, English, German, Chinese and Japanese; Vini d’Italia is the definitive resource on the country’s wines and wineries. It is the result of a year of work by an expert team of 53 tasters who have traveled the country (including Switzerland’s Canton Ticino starting this year) visiting wineries, interviewing producers and tasting 45,000 wines. The book reviews 2,485 wineries and a total of 22,000 wines, noting wines of distinction with bicchieri (glasses). This year, just 436 Tre Bicchieri have emerged — fewer than one percent of the wines tasted. Vini d’Italia is not just a collection of scores and ratings; it is a fundamental and essential volume for all those who work in the sector or are interested in quality Italian wines. Available on Apple and Amazon.

About Gambero Rosso

Gambero Rosso® is Italy’s publishing and training leader in the field of wine and food. It is the only multimedia company in the sector that offers magazines, books, guides, a website, smartphone applications, and a television channel – Sky 412. Since 1987, Gambero Rosso has represented Italian-made food and wine, testing and certifying the quality of products, telling the stories behind the flavors and traditions of the Bel Paese. In Italy, Gambero Rosso offers Città del Gusto® training courses in five cities. Gambero Rosso has developed a rich, worldwide network of partnerships with prestigious culinary institutes to promote authentic Italian culinary traditions and products.

HALL Wines Cabernet Cookoff Raises $1,000,000 in 10 Years for Local Non-Profits

May 25, 2019 by evebushman

NAPA VALLEY, CA – On Saturday, April 27, over 850 wine and food enthusiasts came together at HALL Wines in St. Helena to raise awareness for local charities at the 10th Annual Cabernet Cookoff. 13 Bay Area chefs teamed up with a charity of their choice to compete in a food and wine pairing competition by creating small bites paired with 2015 HALL Ellie’s Cabernet Sauvignon. The event was hosted by Craig and Kathryn Hall and was emceed by Natalie Morales, TODAY West Coast Anchor/Host of Access. In total, four winners were announced including two People’s Choice Awards and two Judges’ Choice Awards. In total, $106,000 stemming from 100% of event proceeds benefited Napa Valley non-profit organizations.

From left: People’s Choice First Place Winner, Chef Chad Bayless and the culinary team from InterContinental Mark Hopkins with proceeds benefiting Swords to Plowshares; Judges’ Choice First Place Winner, Chef Mark Dommen and his family representing One Market Restaurant with proceeds benefiting Collabria Care.

“On Saturday at the 10th Anniversary of the HALL Cabernet Cookoff, we were thrilled to announce that since the start of this event 10 years ago, over $1 million has been raised for Napa charitable organizations,” say Craig and Kathryn Hall. “We applaud the participating chefs and charities and all the generous guests who showed up on a beautiful sunny afternoon celebrating great food, wine and fun.”

Participating chef teams included Acacia House, Brix, Goose & Gander, Gran Electrica, Harvest Table, InterContinental Mark Hopkins, KAIYO, One Market Restaurant, Paula LeDuc Fine Catering, Press, Tarla Mediterranean Bar & Grill, Blossom Catering Company, and Bounty Wine Bar & Smokin’ BBQ.

Each chef team selected a charity to compete for. Non-profits involved in 2019 included Napa Humane, Soroptimist International of Vallejo, Hands Across The Valley, Swords to Plowshares, St. Helena Hospital, CIA Scholarship Fund, NEWS, St. Helena Farmer’s Market, Voices: Foster Care for Independence, Collabria Care, Napa Valley Food Pantry, Puertas Abiertas, Zero Prostate Cancer Napa Valley.

Natalie Morales, TODAY West Coast Anchor/Host of Access, served as the official emcee for the event. Morales helped keep the guests excited about the competition throughout the day and announced the winners alongside hosts Craig and Kathryn Hall at the end of the event. Additionally, ten-time Emmy award winner, NBC Bay Area News Anchor Raj Mathai served as the Charity Champion during the Main Event by encouraging guests to learn more about the deserving non-profit organizations participating.

The 2019 judging panel included actress Wendi McLendon-Covey, television personality Shep Rose, Michelin-rated Chef Ken Frank, La Toque, and wine critic Virginie Boone with Wine Enthusiast Magazine. The two 2019 Judges’ Choice Awards winners were:

• 2019 Judges’ Choice – First Place

Chef: Mark Dommen, One Market Restaurant

Dish: Roasted Lamb Loin; Braised Lamb Loin, Anson Mills Polenta, Charred Scallions

Charity: Collabria Care

• 2019 Judges’ Choice – Runner Up

Chef: Nate Smith, Blossom Catering Company

Dish: 1300 A.D. Roman Ribs

Charity: CAN-V Food Bank Napa Valley

Guests in attendance were tasked with selecting their favorite dish for the two 2019 People’s Choice Awards by using Microsoft Surface tablets. The two Peoples’ Choice Winners were:

• 2019 People’s Choice – First Place

Chef: Chad Bayless, InterContinental Mark Hopkins

Dish: Lamb Belly Tacos

Charity: Swords to Plowshares

• 2019 People’s Choice – Runner Up

Chef: Brandon Watts, Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin’ BBQ
Dish: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Charity: Napa Humane

Event sponsors included The Microsoft Store at The Village at Corte Madera, Corkcicle, Colorescience, Nixon-Peabody, My Office Products, Bright Rentals, Cypress Grove Cheese, Alastin Beauty, Topo Chico Water, Signum Architecture, Benefit Marketing, Imprezziv, Print Inkorportated, LUX Productions, Barbier Security and ALKAR.

Prior to the Main Event, Kathryn Hall hosted a cooking demonstration as part of the VIP Preview alongside celebrity Chef Ari Taymor. The demo included Chef Ari preparing Beet-Cured Hamachi Toast paired with a selection of wines that included a library offering of HALL Jack’s Masterpiece Cabernet Sauvignon.

The 11th Annual HALL Cabernet Cookoff will take place on Saturday, April 25, 2020. Tickets are available now at 2020 Cabernet Cookoff. For more information contact HALL Wines at www.hallwines.com or 707-967-2626, and follow HALL Wines on social @hallwines #cabernetcookoff.

HALL Wines: The Art of Cabernet

HALL produces award-winning Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, available to taste and purchase at two properties in Napa Valley as well as at hallwines.com. Owned by Craig and Kathryn Hall, its vineyard collection features eight Estate Vineyards, of which five are Certified Organic (CCOF). Led by Vice President and Head Winemaker Steve Leveque, HALL’s 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 Cabernet 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 call 707.967.2626. @hallwines #artofcabernet.