Toscana Restaurant Presents an Exclusive Winemaker Dinner with Salvatore Ferragamo of Il Borro

September 20, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

TOSCANA welcomes Salvatore Ferragamo, grandson of the iconic luxury fashion designer and proprietor of the family’s wine estate, for the Il Borro Wine Dinner on Tuesday, October 3, 2017. Ferragamo and his wife Christine will be present to introduce his wines from the exceptional estate in Tuscany, Italy. The five-course menu by Executive Chef Hugo Vasquez will be matched with a variety of wines from Il Borro, consisting of Sangiovese, Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet and Syrah grapes. The wines are chosen to demonstrate the breadth and depth of the Il Borro portfolio and will offer something for everyone and every occasion.

The evening reception will begin with Stuzzichini – Crostino Di Fegatini – a Traditional Tuscan Pâté of Chicken Liver, Served on Crostini paired with a sparkling Bolle di Borro NV Rosé of Sangiovese. Antipasti follows with a Crudo Di Ricciola with Yellowtail, Caperberry, Microgreens and Citrus Vinaigrette paired with Lamelle, IGT Toscana Bianco Chardonnay, 2016. Next is Risotto con Funghi Bianchi e Tartufo – Risotto with Foraged Mushrooms and Norcia Black Truffle paired with Polissena, IGT Toscana Sangiovese, 2013. For the main course, guests will savor the Filetto di Cervo con Riduzione di Vino Rosso – Venison Filet with Red Wine Reduction and Rapini paired with Il Borro, IGT Toscana Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon/Syrah 2013. The dinner will finish with a Dolci of Tortino di Cioccolato paired with Santa Vittorio Vin Santo, 2004.

Pricing for Toscana’s Ferragamo Wine Dinner with Il Borro is $225 per person inclusive of menu, wines, tax and gratuity. Dinner will begin in the wine room promptly at 7:00 p.m. Advance reservations are required; seating availability is limited for this event. Reservations may be made by calling Toscana at 310.820.2448 or email Samantha@neranobh.com.

The Il Borro Estate in the Tuscan Countryside | photo courtesy of Il Borro

ABOUT IL BORRO:

The Ferragamo family began restoration of Il Borro shortly after acquiring the medieval Tuscan estate in 1993. Since then, Salvatore Ferragamo has restored Il Borro’s historic detail and brought the estate back to life in a new era. In 1996, the vineyards were replanted by Salvatore and Ferruccio Ferragamo and today, a tour of the Il Borro Cellars is a journey to the heart of Tuscan wine-making tradition. Il Borro boasts one of the oldest cellars in Italy where the first ever Chianti wine was produced and the magic of winemaking continues with passion and commitment.

FERRAGAMO WINE DINNER

Executive Chef Hugo Vasquez

Sommelier Samantha Johnston

October 3rd, 2017, 7:00 p.m.

Stuzzichini

Crostino di Fegatini

traditional tuscan pâté of chicken liver, served on crostini

Sparkling Bolle di Borro NV Rosé of Sangiovese

Antipasti

Crudo di Ricciola

yellowtail, caperberry, microgreens, citrus vinaigrette

Lamelle, IGT Toscana Bianco Chardonnay, 2016

Risotto

Risotto con Funghi e Tartufo

risotto with foraged mushrooms, norcia black truffle

Polissena, IGT Toscana Sangiovese, 2013

Secondi

Filetto di Cervo con Riduzione di Vino Rosso

venison filet, red wine reduction, rapini

Il Borro, IGT Toscana Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon/Syrah 2013

Dolci

Tortino di Cioccolato

chocolate souffle

Santa Vittorio Vin Santo, 2004

$225 per person

all inclusive

ONE NIGHT ONLY

FERRAGAMO/IL BORRO WINE DINNER

Tuesday, October 3, 2017, 7:00 p.m.

$225 per guest, inclusive of menu & wines, exclusive of tax and gratuity; seating is limited. Proprietor Salvatore Ferragamo will be present to meet guests and discuss the wines.Reservations may be made by calling Toscana at 310.820.2448 or email Samantha@neranobh.com

TOSCANA

11633 San Vicente Boulevard, #100

Los Angeles, CA 90049

310.820.2448

ABOUT TOSCANA:

TOSCANA quietly opened in February 1989 by first-time restaurateurs, Kathie and Mike Gordon who dreamed of creating an Italian trattoria in their neighborhood where friends and family could come together to eat simple, delicious food just like they found in Italy. Amidst the cozy environment celebs, locals and tourists alike are treated like family while being served by the infamously friendly staff. TOSCANA’s success has exceeded all expectations for over 28 years.

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

Motivations and Preferences of Consumers Who Drink Rosé

September 13, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Yountville, CA (PRWEB) – The Wine Market Council announced it has completed its Rosé Wine Consumer Survey, a survey that was conducted to get a closer look at the consumption habits of rosé drinkers.

Eve sampling Rose.

“Nielsen data shows that rosé has grown 57% in sales dollars over the 52 weeks ending June 17, 2017, outpacing the overall wine category which is growing at 3% annually,” said Danny Brager, Senior Vice President of the Beverage Alcohol Practice Area at Nielsen and Chair of Wine Market Council’s Research Committee. “This Wine Market Council survey looks at the subject of rosé from the consumer’s point of view, providing members with more insight into the experiences, motivations and preferences of rosé drinkers.”

The survey was conducted among respondents sourced from Survey Sample International (SSI). The study polled 838 U.S. adults over the age of 21 who drink wine at least once a week and drink rosé at least occasionally.

The report on the survey is available to Wine Market Council members. However, several key findings from the survey include the consistency of consumer consumption, as well as wines consumers say they would substitute for rosé.

Some 60% of those respondents indicated they drink rosé consistently throughout the year, while 23% of them reported they drink rosé much more during the warmer months of the year. Only 12% of the respondents said they drink rosé infrequently, including every few months or several times a year.

Wine Market Council also found that when respondents were asked what wine they would substitute for rosé if they were in the mood for rosé but it wasn’t available, survey participants most often said they would choose Moscato/Muscat (38%), Chardonnay (36%) or Pinot Grigio/Gris (32%). Three in ten or fewer would choose a red blend (31%), Riesling (29%), White Blends (29%), Pinot Noir (28%), Champagne/sparking (28%), Sauvignon/Fumé Blanc (21%), or Gewurztraminer (10%).

The complete 2017 Rosé Wine Consumer Survey and all resulting data are now available to Wine Market Council members. To become a member or inquire about membership visit the Wine Market Council website WineMarketCouncil.com or email Wine Market Council Membership Director, Mark Chandler, with your inquiries at mchandler(at)winemarketcouncil(dot)com. Media questions and requests should be sent to contact(at)teplinnuss(dot)com.

About Wine Market Council
Wine Market Council was established in 1994 as a non-profit (501c6) trade association whose mission is to grow and strengthen the wine market in the U.S. on behalf of all segments of the industry by providing ongoing U.S. wine market research. More information can be found at WineMarketCouncil.com.

A Slice of Heaven: From Babcock Winery and Salt Creek Grille Valencia

September 8, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

In a few short weeks Salt Creek Grille Valencia will host a five-course wine pairing dinner featuring Babcock Winery presented by Brand Ambassador Scott Farrar, in their large open-air patio.

Executive Chef Ignacio Munoz and Pastry Chef Kristina Waggoner “are teaming up to create a decadent menu” for the event slated for September 21 at 6:30 p.m. Reservations are $110 per person, plus tax and gratuity, and there is a limited number of seats. (A few have been reserved, namely mine and some early bird pals!)

Every guest should welcome the warm hospitality that the restaurant has been known for over 20 years.

Babcock Wine Dinner @ Salt Creek Grille

Executive Chef Ignacio Munoz & Chef Kristina Waggoner

Thursday, September 21^st 6:30pm

$110 plus tax and gratuity

Grilled Peach Salad

Fresh grilled peaches, honey goat cheese, spiced pecans,

butter lettuce with a poppy seed vinaigrette

2015 Sauvignon Blanc, “Simpatico”, Sta. Rita Hills

King Salmon in Papillote

Fresh king salmon, shitake mushrooms, bok choy, heirloom tomatoes,

herbs tightly wrapped and cooked in corn husks

2015 Chardonnay, “Top Cream”, Sta. Rita Hills

Tarragon Airline Chicken

Marinated Airline chicken breast accompanied by roasted butternut squash, spinach, cranberries, feta and finished with a tarragon butter sauce

2015 Pinot Noir, “Rita’s Earth”, Santa Barbara County

Dry Aged New York

Seasoned and grilled New York steak drizzled with a cherry reduction, served with grilled asparagus and a potato skin that’s topped with pancetta,

Gorgonzola cheese, scallions and sour cream

2015 Pinot Noir, “Slice of Heaven”, Sta. Rita Hills

Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apple

Baked apple stuffed with decadent cheesecake

Drizzled with spiced caramel & toasted nuts

2014 Late Harvest Pinot Gris, “Naughty Little Nectar”

I had an opportunity – thanks to Salt Creek Grille – to taste through the line-up of Babcock Wines. The specific pairings you will have at the dinner are noted below:

Babcock Wines Tasting Notes

2015 Sauvignon Blanc, “Simpatico”, Sta. Rita Hills (Will be paired with Grilled Peach Salad) This wine had some time in oak as well as the standard stainless steel. Aromas of cling peaches, sweet pear, fruit cocktail and oak. On the mouth it had the same fresh and lively fruit cocktail notes as well as a nice low acidity that still allowed for a lengthy finish.

2015 Chardonnay, “Top Cream”, Sta. Rita Hills (Will be paired with the King Salmon Papillote) Creamy, honeysuckle, toast, caramel and macadamia nut gave the wine an overall aromatic appeal. The flavors were consistent with the aromas and had a lovely balance.

2015 Pinot Noir, “Rita’s Earth”, Santa Barbara County (Will be paired with Tarragon Airline Chicken) Earth, dark cherry, bark and wet leaves on the nose. The taste was big, tart and dark cherry with low tannins. Extremely appealing.

2015 Pinot Noir, “Slice of Heaven”, Sta. Rita Hills (Will be paired with the Dry Aged New York) Bright cherry, stems, dried strawberry and white pepper greeted us on the nose. Tasting the wine showed some cranberry, dried cherry – and another well balanced wine.

And, if you can’t wait: LET’S MEET FOR A DRINK: Half-price Bottle Mondays • Tapped Out Burger Tuesdays • Wine Down Wednesdays • All-American Tito’s Thursdays • Late Night Happy Hour and Live Entertainment Friday & Saturday.

Babcock Wine Dinner September 21, 6:30 P.M.

Reservations: 661-222-9999

24415 Town Center Drive, Suite 115, Valencia

http://www.saltcreekgrille.com/valencia/

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

Eve visits: Hidden Chateau and Gardens for a French wine tasting (circa Sept 2009)

September 1, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

If you know me you know I don’t leave my own little valley too often, except, for wine. Later this month I will brave the LA County Fair to experience two wine classes. I’m pressing my husband Eddie for an October Paso trip. And my friend Nick Morello is ready for me to descend on Terravant Wine Company in Buellton.

But drive? Myself? On a weeknight? It would have to be something pretty cool. And my new best friend, Katie Mahanes, had just the right invite to get me off Facebook and into…a former stable?

So this was the deal: Katie invited me to a French wine pairing dinner at the Hidden Chateau & Gardens in West Hills. (http://www.hiddenchateau.com) I’d never heard of the chef, the wines, the venue…I started to realize that I would never put down my wine 101 glass for the proper one if I didn’t check this out:

Constructed in 1934 – 1936 by silent movie actor, Francis Lederer and his wife, Marion, it was originally built as a horse stable housing Mrs. Lederer’s horse, Gypsy. In 1967, Mrs. Lederer along with Mary and Obdulio Galeana opened the Canoga Mission Gallery, featuring folk art and artifacts from Mexico. The building was named a Historical Cultural Monument #135 on December 4, 1974 by the Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Commission. The stone and adobe building replicates the style of the original California missions. With 1.5 acres of exquisite shaded grounds and gently meandering stone paths, the monument has a Spanish-style roof and was built of stone quarried on their ranch located across the street.

Now occupied by The Hidden Chateau & Gardens, it is a popular site for parties, weddings, teas, and corporate events. While brick and stone architecture lend a rustic appeal, a colonnade of graceful archways lead into an elegant garden with a gazebo.

Wine List:
Macon-fuisse Bourgogne 2004: Chardonnay
Robert Karcher Vin D’Alsace 2004: Sylvaner
Cotes du Rhone Saint Esprit 2007: Syrah/Grenache
Chateau des Matards Cotes de Blaye 2005: Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot

Menu:
Appetizer
Warm French Baguette with Red Pepper and tomatoes salad, Tapenade and Pesto.

Cena Signature Salad of Candied pecans, sliced red onions, cranberries and Gorgonzola cheese tossed with homemade Dijon vinaigrette dressing.

Assiette de Charcuterie – Terrine de Campagne, Salami, and Prosciutto

Grilled Shrimp with ginger and garlic sauce

Chicken Basquaise – Pan Seared Chicken Breast, Grilled red pepper, zucchini, eggplant and tomato sauce

So there I am, almost out of my element as I really could have seen myself as alone…had it not been for Katie. She expertly turned her latest Facebook friend -into a fan.

The pairing by Chef Charlie didn’t lack for anything. His elegant and delicate fare was paired not only with elegantly styled wines but was framed by waterfalls & fountains, music and lush foliage.

The appetizer trio that I enjoyed included both an olive tapenade and a pesto tickling my tongue, was accompanied by an Alsace wine by Rober Karcher that Chef Charlie said was 50% Pinot Gris and 50% Pinot Blanc. “This is the only way the winemaker does it – as it makes the wine less sweet and palatable with salads and appetizers.” The salad, a Gargonzola and candied pecan salad garnished with cranberry jelly, lemon, extra virgin olive oil and Dijon mustard, was delightful with the wine.

“Being in Fallbrook mall, Ceno, my restaurant and wine store, competed with Trader Joe’s on one end and Woodland Hills Wine Co. on the other. At first I stuck to about 95% French, Spanish and Italian wines that I know so well. But my customers broadened my awareness of Napa and Paso and now I love the Grenache, Pinot Noirs and Zinfandel wines too.”

The homemade charcuterie that came next had my mouth watering moments before fork met palate. Chef Charlie talked of the hours each required to reach their required flavor while I simmered on the Cote du Rhone now being poured. With 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah this Chateuneuf du Pape styled wine accompanied not only the charcuterie but excellently paired with the grilled shrimp.

What appeared next to be a simple chicken dish was, in truth, described by Chef Charlie as a pretty remarkable feat: each vegetable had been grilled separately then added together only at the end with garlic and olive oil. Paired with our final wine of the evening, a Bordeaux with 75% Cab and 25% Merlot, that was the bottle I knew I would drive back for.

When the trio of desserts arrived, I could name without any help but was stunned by just the same. (Crème brûlée, Lemon tart, Crème fraîche) I wished it as appropriate for a wine blogger to get a doggie bag, a bottle, and still make it home in time to Facebook about my evening. I always make abrupt exits. It’s my signature. Like Cinderella leaving the ball before the prince finds out…she ate or drank too much.

Kissing Katie goodbye was hard. But nowhere near as hard, sorry Katie, as leaving the Hidden Chateau and Gardens.

Vintage Eve Circa 1/14: High Desert Cellars Tasting with Chavez Cellars

August 22, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

After I tasted wines from the California High Desert AVA with Wine of the Month Club’s president Paul Kalemkiarian via YouTube, I got an email a few weeks later from another winery in the high desert, High Desert Cellars Chavez Vineyards. They wanted me to taste their award winning wines (see “From the Winery” below) and write up some tasting notes for you, our Dear Wine Friends.

Not one to turn down a bottle, err, I mean an opportunity to try a new bottle of wine, I readily agreed to the tasting. (If you want to try them they have a tasting room open to the public Thursday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 6 p.m.: 3045 90^th Street West, Rosamond, CA, 93560, 661-256-6203.)

Tasting

2010 Tempranillo, 13.9% alcohol

Stewed mushroom, green bell peppers cooking in fajita seasonings, black pepper, leather, blackberry; lovely dark peppery fruit, juicy blackberry, black pepper again, good tannins. Pair with grilled steak or any meat-based dish in my humble opinion. Drink now.

2010 Zinfandel, 13.9% alcohol

Floral rose petals, plum, dark chocolate, leaves, wet earth and leather; red fruit, tannic, black pepper, smoke, bark. I could steadily sip this wine alone – and I did – or enjoy with food. Drink now or up to 5 years of down time. I liked the alcohol content and didn’t get any of the heat accompanied with high alcohol percentages. With that said, for a Zinfandel, it was fairly easy drinking with only a mild amount of pepper and spice.

2010 California Syrah, 15.6% alcohol

The color of seedless blackberry jam; dark fruit, plum, plump raisins, tobacco, milk chocolate, leather, mint; dried black fruits, juicy yet palate-drying on the finish, smoke, and firm tannins. Very pleasant, may be strong without food for some but not for me. Drink now or up to 5 to 7 years of down time. (Note from my Contributing Editor Michael Perlis: High Desert Cellars’ Syrah is from the same vineyard that was used for Golden Star’s.)

From the Winery

Three of our wines have won medals from the 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition! Our 2010 Syrah won GOLD. Our 2010 Merlot won SILVER. And our Zinfandel won BRONZE. We are thrilled to receive this honor!

The 2014 SFCWC had a record number of 5,825 entries from over 1,500 wineries from 25 states in America – the largest competition of wines in America. The Public Tasting Event will be held at the Fort Mason Center in San Francisco on Saturday, February 15, beginning at 1:30PM, and we are making plans to attend and pour our wonderful wines.

Efren Chavez is the proud owner of High Desert Cellars – Chavez Vineyards and he has been in the grape growing business since 1978, starting in Sonoma County in the Russian River Appellation, Alexander Valley. In 1999 Efren started Chavez Vineyards on 20 acres located in east Palmdale, in the Antelope Valley of the California High Desert. Producing wine from grapes of uncompromised quality, including red varietals of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Syrah, Merlot, Zinfandel, Tempranillo, Malbec, Barbera, Alicante Bouchet, and white varietals of Chardonnay, Semillon, Viognier, Muscato, as well as rose wines of Merlot and Syrah. The first bottles of wine under the Chavez Cellars label were bottled in 2009.

Efren’s ambition of opening a tasting room for his wines became reality in June 2011 – High Desert Cellars Winery and Tasting Room held its grand opening. The beautiful tasting room offers fines wines for tasting, as well as beer, soda, water, snacks and unique gifts. Our wines can also be enjoyed in the outdoor garden area, along with a picnic lunch if desired.

How Do You Like Your Wine From Your Favorite Wineries: Consistent Flavor or Consistently Good?

August 18, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

The average consumer likes consistency, but I believe that the vinophile likes a consistently interesting wine. Let me explain why I’m making this statement.

In a recent brief discussion with a wine friend we debated what is better: a wine that consumers have learned to expect the same from, vintage after vintage, so that they are confident when they pick up a bottle from the supermarket – or – a wine that surprises? Which could also be from a consistently good source?

For example, for years I have recommended Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc for its lively fruit aromas and flavors. The bottle even now has a description of what I mean: nut fruit, which is fruit with a “nut” center like apricots and peaches. I’ve frankly never noticed a difference in this wine year after year. When I noticed they came out with an unoaked Chardonnay, that wine, just like its sister varietal, tastes the same to me with every passing vintage.

Other supermarket favorites, like the baby-blue labeled La Marca Prosecco priced below $15 are in this category, along with all non vintage sparkling wines that strive to taste the same year after year.

Sameness doesn’t mean wrongness. These wines make it easy to select for a pairing dinner, convenient as most are on supermarket shelves, and finally, most are competitively priced.

The vinophile in me does argue the point though. If I don’t want to think about new and interesting aromas and flavors then why am I even bothering with wine? Why not drink water? If I just want to be inebriated there’s flavorless and colorless vodka.

Nope, if given the choice, I want to be surprised by a wine. And I bet some of you reading this article like this too. One of my most interesting “A Ha” moments come when someone brings me a wine that they love and want me to try. I want to put as much effort into tasting the wine that they did, figuring out if I can taste what they are describing and find the same pleasure.

It’s also fun if the wine has a totally different flavor than the aroma, if the color is not exactly what I expected, if the winemaker writes up a clever diatribe on the back label, and, of course, if it’s a varietal, winery, winemaker or from a place on earth I haven’t had before.

Think about it, which is your preference?

From LocalWineEvents.com – Heart of Burgundy Wine & Food Tour

August 16, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Five full days plus dinner with your guide on the evening of your arrival day – October 9th to October 14th, Cost: 2,775 euros per person – maximum 6 guests.

In October 2017 there will be a totally unique, wonderful wine tour in Burgundy and you can still join it! It includes a cellar visits, barrel tasting, cheese and wine pairing, truffle hunt, wine and chocolate tasting, vineyard visits and the most delicious dishes you could ever hope to enjoy…

A Wine and Food Tour with a difference

This is a wine tour in Burgundy that’s like no other. It will be limited to just six people and for five full days and two evenings you’ll not only be totally spoiled but will enjoy an introduction to stunning Burgundy in a unique and fabulous way. You don’t need to know anything about wine to enjoy this trip which takes in some of the most famous and beautiful vineyards in the world, although if you do, you will already know how amazing the wines of Burgundy can be.

The adventure starts in the medieval town of Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy, home of the famous Hospices de Beaune (Hôtel-Dieu de Beaune) a former charitable almshouse founded in 1443 by Nicolas Rolin, chancellor of Burgundy, as a hospital for the poor. The Hospices de Beaune is one of France’s most prestigious historic monuments. Its flamboyant Gothic architecture, its polychrome roofs and a renowned vineyard make this museum one of Burgundy’s gems. of course you’ll be visiting this with a private guide and tasting some of the amazing wines during the course of our cellar visits during the week.

Wine tasting, gourmet food and spell-binding villages in Burgundy

Each day on the trip you’ll be visiting different domains – some of them opening their doors especially for you. You’ll enjoy some of the very best wines and gourmet food in the most beautiful parts of Burgundy .

Discover then the authentic Heart of Burgundy on my fun and informative wine and food tour in the beautiful Côte d’Or (the golden slopes) of Burgundy. In my 12th season of tours, I am very passionate and proud of this historic and diverse wine region which led me to create a special signature tour to share the treasures of Burgundy’s ‘terroir’ from carefully selected cellars to delicious cheeses, regional specialities and a whole lot more, with you.

Arrival Day: (Evening) – Meet with your guide for the week at 19h30 at your hotel in Beaune for a welcome dinner at a beautiful 1* Michelin restaurant in the heart of Beaune.

Day 1 – Wine Tasting lunch in gorgeous Cote Chalonnaise

Today you will meet, talk and taste with some welcoming winemakers in their delightful cellars in these picturesque villages. Tasting both pinot noir and chardonnay from different producers, the highlight of the day is our leisurely tasting lunch, pairing excellent wines with a four course lunch at a chateau estate in the village of Mercurey.

Day 2 – Private Cooking Course, Lunch, Vineyard Tour & Tasting

Learn to cook traditional Burgundian fare with our French chef in his renovated family home in a famous wine village (or if you prefer, modern French cuisine with a Burgundian twist in a professional kitchen (exclusive to our clients) inclusive of aperitifs and a three course lunch. Morning cooking session followed by a delicious lunch with wine and after lunch touring the famous vineyards & villages of the Cote de Nuits, stopping for an excellent cellar visit in one of the renowned wine villages, tasting from village to grand cru wines and including a walk through the vineyards to the famous cross of Romanee Conti. The vineyard of Romanee Conti produces the most expensive wine in the world! You will also be able to experience a visit to the Chateau de Clos Vougeot built be cistercian monks before the french revolution.

Day 3 – Cote de Beaune, Wine & Chocolate

Today it’s the turn of the Cote de Beaune famed for its magnificent chardonnays (amongst the best in the world) & lighter red pinots. First stop in Meursault tasting some lovely reds and whites from both barrel and bottles followed by a tour of the famed grand cru vineyards of Meursault, Puligny Montrachet & Chassagne Montrachet amongst others. After a delicious typically Burgundian lunch in Volnay (on the terrace if fine) we take a break from tasting on a leisurely spectacular drive up into Hautes Cotes where you will be entirely surrounded by vineyards and enjoying some of the finest views in Burgundy. Our final visit of the day is an artisanal chocolate shop where I will show you how well certain wines pair with the right chocolate.

Day 4 – Truffle Hunt, Cheese Tasting & Bubbles Day

First stop is to a family owned cheese venue, where you will enjoy some of the very typical, unpasturised cheeses of Burgundy pairing with both red and white wines. Next is a truffle hunt with a very cute dog and his master in a little forest in the Burgundian countryside set against the backdrop of an wonderful 11th Century chateau. After sampling some of their delicious truffle specialities, we drive to a neighbouring village for a lovely lunch in rustic surroundings. An enjoyable drive through the hills and villages leads us to the vllage of Savigny les Beaune where you will have your first taste of sparkling wine ‘Cremant de Bourgogne’ – Burgundy’s answer to champagne in wine domaine of several generations.

Day 5– Market Day in Beaune.

This morning you will have some time on your own meandering around Beaune’s spectacular market, full of colourful vegetables and fruits, delicious cheeses, olives and pates. With all the wonderful shops in Beaune you may wish to fit in some last minute shopping before departure. After lunch (at your own choice – maybe a picnic from your purchases at the market) we will visit the only remaining mustard museum where you will be able to mix your own mustard. The last cellar visit of the week will be in the oldest cellars in Beaune for our private candlelit wine tasting. This evening I invite you to join me for a last night gourmet dinner in a little village on the outskirts of Beaune, enjoying aperitifs on the terrace before dinner.

Additional Tour Day:

Medieval Burgundy

Enjoy a relaxed day in stunning medieval villages filled with flowers and boasting gorgeous views. First stop Semur en Auxois with its four turrets towering over the River Armancon, stopping at the market & relaxing with a drink. Next is Flavigny sur Ozerain, classed as one of the most beautiful villages in France (of ‘Chocolat’ fame), in time to enjoy a leisurely walking tour through Flavigny’s delightful streets followed by a delicious lunch at a Ferme Auberge run by local farmers’ wives with fresh produce from their farms & gardens. After lunch, a fun & informative tasting of local wines before driving across country to Chateauneuf en Auxois with its fairytale 12C Château, returning to Beaune taking the scenic route through the beautiful Ouche Valley

This tour can be customised for private groups. The tour price does not include accommodation but the accommodation can be arranged for you through Burgundy on a Plate

Burgundy on a Plate
Boulevard Clemenceau
Beaune, Bourgogne 21200

http://www.localwineevents.com/events/detail/670353/Beaune-Heart-of-Burgundy-Wine-Food-Tour-October-9th-to-October-14th

Trek Travel Unveils A Limited Availability SingleThread Farm California Weekend Bike Tour

August 14, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Madison, WI (PRWEB) – Trek Travel, a bicycle vacation leader, unveils a singular culinary and luxury travel experience in its limited availability SingleThread California Weekend Bike Tour taking place October 23-26.

The award-winning cycling tour outfitter explores California’s Sonoma and legendary Dry Creek Valley on the world’s best bikes while indulging in the Zen-inspired SingleThread.

The captivating farm-restaurant-inn is garnering worldwide acclaim for offering experiences based on “omotenashi,” the Japanese concept of hospitality whereby “guests are entertained wholeheartedly,”

“Every detail is meticulously considered at SingleThread,” says Trek Travel President, Tania Burke. “It’s five guestrooms are luxuriously timeless, dinner in its James Beard award-winning restaurant is flawless, and a tour of private farm is enchanting.”

All are part of the four-day, three night SingleThread California Weekend Bike Tour that begins and ends in Healdsburg, California.

Guests will cycle through the Alexander, Dry Creek and Russian River Valleys, passing Lake Sonoma and 1,400 year-old redwoods in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve.

They’ll experience an elaborate 11-course, wine- or sake-paired tasting menu in the 2017 James Beard Award-winning dining room which The New York Times calls “serene” with “panache.” (The San Francisco Chronicle describes as a “flawless four star experience”).

A family-style, traditional Japanese donabe dinner in the SingleThread private study and private tour of a local farm, surrounded by Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Chardonnay vines, are additional trip highlights.

The limited availability of this four-day, three-night trip is offered from October 23 – 26, 2017. Priced from $4,799 per person, the trip begins and ends in Healdsburg, California. Guests stay at SingleThread. Rides from 11 to 40 miles with up to 2,400 of climbing. For further information contact Trek Travel at 1-866-464-8735 or visit trektravel.com.

About Trek Travel:

Based in Madison, Wisconsin, Trek Travel is an award-winning cycling vacation company offering cycling tours around the globe for cyclists of all abilities. Each vacation includes the use of the latest Trek bicycles like the Domane SL 7 or XM700+ electric assist, featuring Garmin GPS devices and Di2 electronic shifting; with an option to upgrade to the Emonda SLR, the lightest production road bike available; boutique accommodations; most meals; snacks and drinks for each day’s ride; daily route support; social hours; entrance fees to group events; transportation during the tour; complimentary Trek Travel merchandise, and more.

Trek Travel was formed in 2002 as the luxury bicycle touring arm of Trek Bicycles, one of the world’s largest bicycle manufacturers. Voted a 2016 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Tour Operator, they’re a team of globetrotters, world-travelers and dreamers who know how to inspire the memories guests have for the rest of their life. They find the best roads, hotels, towns, food, routes and attractions, and introduce them to people looking for adventure. All on bikes they’re guaranteed to love with unrivaled customer service at every step.

About SingleThread:

SingleThread is Farm-Restaurant-Inn located in Healdsburg, California. SingleThread Farm is situated on five acres between the Russian River and the historic San Lorenzo Ranch. The property consists of a greenhouse, shade structures, loamy fields, chicken coops, an heirloom fruit orchard, olive trees, bee hives, and a cattle paddock all surrounded by Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Chardonnay vines. The farm supplies vegetables, fruit, herbs, flowers, honey, eggs, and olive oil to our restaurant kitchen.

The dining room offers an eleven-course tasting menu customized to our guests’ dietary preferences and restrictions. Tucked away on the second floor, the inn has five thoughtfully appointed guestrooms featuring an assortment of well-curated amenities and includes a multi-course breakfast.

Nerano Welcomes Winemaker Matt Dees for the Jonata Wine Dinner on August 22

August 13, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

A Menu Created by Chef Michele Lisi and Wine Pairings by Sommelier Samantha Johnston in Celebration of Jonata’s Cult Wines

As part of a continuing series of dinners showcasing domestic and international winemakers, Nerano presents an intimate five-course dinner tasting menu paired with wines from Jonata, one of the Central Coast’s most sought after wine producers, on Tuesday, August 22, 2017.

nerend The wines selected for Nerano’s Jonata wine dinner were chosen to introduce and familiarize the richness of these Santa Barbara County wines to a wider audience. Winemaker Matt Dee’s wines offer something for everyone – Rosé for warm afternoons or Aperitivo, versatile Chardonnay for any food at every price point, and reds that can be enjoyed every day like The Hilt, or something reserved for a memorable dinner, such as Jonata’s Tierra or ‘Alma’ Cabernet Franc.

The evening reception begins with Stuzzichini of Crostino di Pomodoro Verde with Apulian Burrata and Green Tomato Marmellata and Ahi Tuna Tartare with Meyer Lemon, Capers and English Cucumber Cup paired with The Paring, Rosé of Pinot Noir 2016. A Primi course of Capesante with Roasted Scallops, Sunchoke Crema, Toasted Walnuts and Crispy Salsify is paired with The Hilt, ‘Vanguard,’ Chardonnay 2014; followed by a Risotto with Kabocha Squash and Norcia Black Truffles paired with The Hilt, ‘Old Guard,’ Pinot Noir 2014. Next is the Pasta course of house-made Pappardelle with Colorado Lamb Ragu’, Castelmagno Cheese and Crispy Rosemary paired with Jonata, ‘Tierra,’ Sangiovese 2007. For Secondi, guests will savor Braciola Di Cervo – a Roasted Venison Chop with Oregon Chanterelles, Grilled Polenta and Bing Cherry Riduzione paired with Jonata, ‘Alma,’ Cabernet Franc 2013.The dinner is completed with a Dolci of Coconut Sorbet paired with Nerano’s House-Made Limoncello.

Pricing for Nerano’s Jonata Wine Dinner is $175 per person inclusive of menu and wines, and exclusive of tax and gratuity. Dinner will be served in the upstairs BG Lounge promptly at 7:30 p.m. Reservations are required and seating availability is limited for this event.

ABOUT JONATA

Matt Dees and the Jonata team’s commitment to a forward thinking approach to winemaking has made Jonata one of the most sought after cult wines of California’s Central Coast. The sandy soil slopes of the 84-acre vineyard in the Ballard Canyon AVA of Santa Barbara County were uncultivated until the Jonata team pioneered the land, planting some of the first and most successful Bordeaux and Rhone varietals in the region. Matt Dees has shown extraordinary results and gained widespread acclaim from critics such as Robert Parker, Antonio Galloni, and Stephen Tanzer. In addition, the Jonata team has an incredible commitment to sustainability. The Jonata Estate integrates livestock into their farming model, which enhances the soil and the health of their land. The ranch also contains a large communal garden, an orchard that produces olives for estate olive oil and honey bees raised for the production of honey. The vineyard team practices judicious water use without using chemicals such as herbicides or pesticides. Small production, meticulously made, with an outstanding commitment to quality – that is Matt Dees and Jonata’s way.

JONATA WINE DINNER WITH SPECIAL GUEST MATT DEES

Executive Chef Michele Lisi

Sommelier Samantha Johnston

Special Guest Winemaker Matt Dees

Tuesday, August 22, 2017

7:30 PM IN THE BG LOUNGE

stuzzichini

Crostino di Pomodoro Verde

apulian burrata, green tomato marmellata

Ahi Tuna Tartare

ahi tuna, meyer lemon, capers, english cucumber cup

The Paring, Rosé of Pinot Noir 2016

primi

Capesante

roasted scallops, sunchoke crema, toasted walnuts, crispy salsify

The Hilt, ‘Vanguard,’ Chardonnay 2014

Risotto

risotto with kabocha squash, norcia black truffles

The Hilt, ‘Old Guard,’ Pinot Noir 2014

pasta

Pappardelle

pappardelle, colorado lamb ragu’, castelmagno cheese, crispy rosemary

JONATA, ‘Tierra,’ Sangiovese 2007

secondi

Braciola di Cervo

roasted venison chop, oregon chanterelles, grilled polenta, bing cherry riduzione

JONATA, ‘Alma,’ Cabernet Franc 2013

dolci

Sorbetto

coconut sorbet

Nerano House-Made Limoncello

$175 per person

inclusive of menu and wines, plus taxes and gratuity.

WHEN:

JONATA WINE DINNER WITH WINEMAKER MATT DEES

TUESDAY, AUGUST 22, 2017

7:30 p.m. upstairs in the BG Lounge

Limited availability; advanced reservations required

WHERE:

Nerano & The BG Lounge

9960 South Santa Monica Boulevard

Beverly Hills, CA 90212

310.405.0155

ABOUT:

Nerano is the fourth restaurant from the Toscana Restaurant Group and is the vision of owners Andy Brandon-Gordon and Carlo Brandon-Gordon’s trips to the Amalfi Coast where they became inspired by the temperate climate, the pure simplicity of the coastal cuisine and the inviting Italian culture. In combining their individual talents with a virtuoso team of culinary and creative professionals, they are fulfilling their vision of a stunning contemporary space matched with exquisite dishes and welcoming service they discovered in the village of Nerano. Executive Chef Michele Lisi’s menu is deftly created with a light touch, using only the finest California and imported Italian ingredients. Mixologist William Perbellini has crafted the cocktail program for both Nerano and the sleek and lush BG Lounge upstairs. The BG Lounge is beautifully appointed and the dramatic and theatrical room is an instant classic, reminiscent of Bemelmans Bar at New York’s Carlyle Hotel or Bar Hemingway in Paris. Nerano and BG Lounge opened in November with much fanfare from The Hollywood Reporter, Eater, Thrillist and Urban Daddy.

Become a Fan of NERANO on Facebook:

www.facebook.com/neranobh

Follow NERANO on Twitter: @neranobh

on Instagram: @neranobh

For OpenTable reservations

Please visit TRG’s restaurants on the Web:

www.toscanabrentwood.com

www.bartoscana.com

www.sykitchen.com

E-16 Opens New Tasting Room in the Sierra Foothills

August 10, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Somerset, CA (PRWEB) – After years of careful planning and construction, E-16 winery will be opening the doors of their new winery to the public in El Dorado County California. With tones of modern luxury and wine country chic, the personality of owner Robert Jones is felt from beginning to end, much like the way it feels to experience his wines.

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Photo: E16 Winery Facebook page

Description

Carved into the mountainside that sits alongside a babbling brook, the tasting room has two specific personalities that are perfectly designed in the vernacular of the region it represents.

The front room is filled with natural lighting brought about by enormous bay windows and two sets of twelve foot doors, that invite the light to illuminate the polished concrete floor and urban zen style wooden bar. A waterfall with LED lighting gives the appearance of an indoor firefall. The back room, reserved for members, takes wine lovers into a 65 foot long cave decorated with vintage style chic chandeliers for lighting, rustic oversized leather couches, and an impressive three piece wooden bar that covers the entire back wall from side to side and floor to ceiling.

When the weather is right, the patio offers a third location for guests to relax in the sunshine alongside a babbling stream that runs down the side of the property.

Location

El Dorado County sits at the north end of California’s famed Mother Lode, the 120-mile gold vein discovered in the late 1840’s which became the site of the Gold Rush. Today, the region is better known for its visitor attractions, agriculture, and old-vine Zinfandel. The definition of “off the beaten path” wine tasting, El Dorado gives wine lovers the chance to experience a digital detox while sipping on the supple nectar of the grapes.

“I want to help everyone who interacts with E-16 to make lasting memories. We are more than thrilled to bring a tasting room like this to life in an area so dear to my heart. We want to recreate expectations when wine tasting in this area. We want people to enjoy an environment, wine, and a service level they have never seen before. A customized yet relaxed approach to comfort and approachable luxury,” said owner, Robert Jones.

Visitor’s Experience

The Tasting Room will initially offer five wines that showcase the awarded elegance of E-16 and their label FireFall, all created from the renowned hands of Winemaker Daniel Moore. E-16 will showcase their sought after Chardonnay and Pinot Noirs. FireFall will focus on more obscure varietals such as Syrah, Grenache Blanc and Barbera. So, whether you are a novice or an expert, E-16 will be the perfect spot to visit for wine travellers with all levels of wine knowledge.

The purpose of the Tasting Room will be to share E-16 wines and educate visitors about the wine, history and diversity of El Dorado County and the Fire Play AVA. The Tasting Room is open to the Public from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Friday– Sunday. Hours vary seasonally so visitors should call ahead to (530) 620-6200 or check the website at http://www.e16wines.com

OVERVIEW of E-16’s New Wine Tasting Room

Who – E-16 Winery – Owner Robert Jones – Winemaker – Daniel Moore
What – New wine tasting room in Somerset, California
When – The tasting room will be open to the public as of July 26, 2017
Where – 8085 Perry Creek Rd., Somerset, CA 95684

Reservations – can be made by visiting e16wines.com or calling (530) 620-6200 or emailing robin(at)e16wines.com

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E-16 Winery

E16 Wines composes single-vineyard pinot noir and chardonnay from California vineyards graced with the optimum confluence of soil, climate and human curation. The new label FireFall is an inspired take on obscure varietals that thrill the senses.

The E16 winemaking team partners with grape growers who share a commitment to sustainable viticulture and a devotion to the fruit’s inherent varietal expression. This camaraderie is woven with a passion for excellence and respect for the fundamentals of thoughtful farming to produce noble wines having a true sense of place.