Meeting and Tasting with Montes Winemakers Part One: Story and Starting the Wine Tasting

March 3, 2017 by evebushman

Oh boy what a surprise and a treat was in store for me…

We’re hoping you can join Montes Winemakers Aurelio Montes Senior and Aurelio Montes Junior for an intimate wine luncheon on Thursday, February 23rd. The Father and son are coming together for the first time in Los Angeles, to share their passion for wine and winemaking.

…as my old friend Alex Guarachi (check out our videotaped interview and tasting back in 2012) with Guarachi Wine Partners, long-time importer for Montes Wines, was there too. I got some good quality time with Guarachi and both Aurelio Montes Sr. (Montes, Chilean wines) and Aurelio Montes Jr. (Kaiken, Argentinean wines) within the first half hour of the event. Before, while sipping on non-vintage Montes Sparkling (100% Chardonnay, only been making for a couple of years) and during the tasting I learned:

Father and son had a day in LA before taking a long flight back to Chile, where harvest has already begun. The seasons in the southern hemisphere are opposite what they are here in California.

Aurelio Jr. and Aurelio Sr.

Chilean wines are exported the most to Japan and U.S.

The father and son duo only jokingly refer to the tasting as Chile versus Argentina. Montes Wines is in Chile, and Kaiken in Argentina. While Jr. concentrates on Argentina, Sr. remains in Chile. They explained some of the differences, not limited to the fact that the two countries are separated by the Andes, Sr. said “Chile has a maritime climate” due to its proximity to the ocean while “Argentina is continental.” Both have rain, but at different times.

Guarachi said that Montes was founded 28 years ago, with four partners, and began selling in the U.S. with 60,000 cases of Montes and 2,000 cases from Kaiken. Now they are producing over 7 million cases collectively.

Guarachi joked that years ago when people were presented with Chilean wines they were unsure of where Chile was, mistaking South America (where Chile and Argentina are) with South Africa.

Aurelio Sr. has received several accolades as a winemaker, innovator and importer. Jr. is also receiving amazing reviews, Guarachi said.

Jr. became interested in wine after a trip to Napa with his father at the ripe age of fifteen. The younger man commented that he was “born in a wine barrel”…and looked to his father with curiosity about his passion for the wine industry.

Aurelio Sr. left us with this thought, when he plants on the hillside, and needs to have irrigation, “I play the music and the plant dances” and on the valley floor it’s the opposite. Jr. said that “a Malbec from Argentina is never less than good” and while Malbec got Argentina out in the world it is now time to “open the gates” for other wines.

Tasting – aromas and flavors separated by ;

Montes Alpha Chardonnay 2014

100% Chardonnay

Lemon zest, ripe pineapple, unsalted butter and wet stone on the nose; on the mouth I got lemon-lime, kiwi and a medium acidity. 90 Eve pts.

Kaiken Ultra Chardonnay 2014

100% Chardonnay

Apricot, apple and cool steel; then a balanced front palate with bruised apple and tropical fruit, lingering acidity on the back palate for the finish. 91 Eve pts.

Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon 2014

90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot

Sweet plums, black cherry, blackberry, blueberry, mushroom, earth and charred steak all on the nose; black fruit, black pepper, tannins and a very long finish in the mouth. 90 Eve pts.

Kaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon 2014

95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Malbec

Aromas of red fruit, white pepper and milk chocolate; followed by big, dark, dry and dusty notes of blueberry, fig, spice and tannins in the mouth. 90 Eve pts.

Montes Alpha Malbec 2014

95% Malbec, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon

Dense red to blue fruit, sweet black cherry, and earth all in a velvety nose; with a spicy yet balanced palate filled with dried black berries. 91 Eve pts.

Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2014

100% Malbec

Chocolate, mint, dark berries, clove and concrete up front; flavors of dried cherry, the same dark fruit as in the aroma, dry and mildly tart. 90 Eve pts.

Stay tuned to this website on 3/10/17 for Montes Wine Tasting Part Two and Menu from The District by Hannah An.

Watch it in less than one minute here.

Aurelio Montes Senior in Chile: http://www.monteswines.com/en/

Aurelio Montes Junior in Argentina: http://kaikenwines.com/en/home/

Guarachi Wine Partners: http://www.guarachiwinepartners.com/

The District by Hannah An: http://thedistrictbyha.com/

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

Creators of Successful Wine Brands, Fat bastard, Root: 1, Clean Slate and Others, Form New Business

January 9, 2017 by evebushman

Consumers will soon have the opportunity to enjoy exceptional wines from around the world for up to 30 percent less. New wine importer, Golden Frog Productions is committed to launching new brands using higher quality grapes, but eliminating more than 85 percent of traditional importer margins to bring consumers these wines for up to one third less. The company is co-founded by industry veterans, Peter Click and Alan MacDonald, the brains behind top-selling wine brands: Root: 1, Clean Slate, High Note, Fat bastard, Eroica and Red Diamond, which have collectively sold more than 10 million cases.

“Most large wine importers have margins up to 45 percent to support their bloated infrastructures. Our margins are below 10 percent,” said Click. “By taking only a small slice, we can pay wineries for quality grapes typically retailing for $25 per bottle, entice both distributors and retailers with outstanding margins and yet retail that $25 wine for $17. This makes us a compelling partner for both wineries and distributors.”

Click is the former founder and CEO of Click Wine Group, which he sold to Winebow in 2008. MacDonald held senior executive positions at Winebow, Click Wine Group and Ste. Michelle Wine Estates.

Golden Frog Productions’ inaugural wine is Awning Estate Cabernet Sauvignon from the prestigious Apalta region located in Chile’s Colchagua Valley. To produce Awning, Golden Frog Productions partnered with Viña Ventisquero, a first-class winery with estate vineyards in Apalta. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot and Petit Verdot, the wine is alluring and generous, with blackberry notes, pepper and cassis aromas, complimented by structured tannins. All the fruit comes from Ventisquero’s low-yielding vineyards located on steep, well-drained slopes, producing intensity of flavors unmatched anywhere else in Chile. Awning takes its name from vine leaves that hang over the grapes, creating a natural sunshade during the hottest part of the day, allowing extended hang time and greater flavor development.

“Apalta is home to some of Chile’s most famous wine producers, and Awning is one of the only Cabernet Sauvignons available from this iconic region for less than $20,” said MacDonald. “In a very short time, the wine has had tremendous success in the market and we believe this trend represents the tip of the iceberg.”

Awning Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is currently available in Conn., Fla., Ind., Ky., Mass., Maine, N.C., N.H., Ohio, S.C., Vt., and Wash. for the suggested retail price of $17. The company is currently exploring distribution opportunities in several southern and western states.

Golden Frog Productions plans to launch wines from Spain and France in 2017.

About Golden Frog Productions
Golden Frog Productions, http://goldenfrogproductions.com/awning/, was founded by two industry veterans who were fed up with the stale, boring traditions of the wine industry. The company’s mission is to smash those traditions and give consumers a $17 wines from around the world with the quality and intensity of a typical $25 bottle of wine. The company does this with a unique business model in partnership with world class, like-minded wineries throughout the world.

Perlis Picks: GREAT WINES OF THE ANDES

October 22, 2016 by evebushman

Even though I’ve only been writing for Eve Wine 101 since 2009, I’ve been a wine lover for a lot longer than that – well over 30 years. Not being much of a traveler, I’ve always focused mainly on California wines. For me, the wine experience isn’t just about the wine but about the land, the winemaker, and the people on the other side of the tasting table. California provides us with such a great opportunity to do that and my palate is definitely a home-grown one. At the same time, our bounty here has limited my experience in wines from other parts of the world.

James Suckling does not have that problem. First with Wine Spectator and since 2010 with his own JamesSuckling.com, he is known worldwide as one of the foremost wine experts, traveling around the world and reporting back to his faithful readers, as well as hosting marvelous tasting events.

On September 30, Mr. Suckling brought his “Great Wines of the Andes” event to Mr. C’s in Beverly Hills, showcasing some of the wines he tasted on his last trip to Chile and Argentina earlier in the year. He tasted a lot of wines [about 1,300!] and put together an event that was guaranteed to the satisfy the attendee – wineries were limited to pouring two wines that had to have been rated 90+ points by James Suckling.

Based on that, my wife Karen and I were glad to go check it out. Knowing that Argentina has a reputation for Malbec and Chile for Carmenere, we expected to sample tasty wines of those varietals as well as Cabernet Sauvignon and some Bordeaux-style blends, which we did. But we also got a few surprises along the way. Here were some of our favorites. [Note that in some cases I have only noted the winery and wine name; any comments I do have are in italics – absolute favorite wines of the day are in bold. I take full responsibility for spelling and punctuation errors.]

Abremundos

2012 Malbec Valle de Uco 8^th Octava Bassa

2012 Valle de Uco 8^th Octava Alta Blend [Malbec and Cabernet Franc]

Marcelo Pelleriti Wines

2013 Malbec Valle de Uco Reserve

2012 Valle de Uco Pelleriti Selection Grand Reserve Blend of Terroir [Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc]

Felipe Staiti

2012 Valle de Uco Vertigo [Malbec and Syrah]

Juanchi Baleiron & Marcelo Pelleriti

2014 Malbec Valle de Uco Malbecaster 2014

[All of the above {Abremundos, Marcelo Pelleriti Wines, Felipe Staiti, and Juanchi Baleiron & Marcelo Pelleriti} are under the MarceloPelleriti Wines label. I especially liked the Malbec/Syrah blend, which was one of my favorites of the day and a real surprise to me. Very silky.]

Bodega Piedra Negra

2015 Malbec Valle de Uco Reserve

2016 Pinot Gris Valle de Uco Alta Coleccion

[Karen especially enjoyed the clean, fresh taste of the Pinot Gris.]

Puro Uno

2009 Malbec Mendoza Limitado

2011 Malbec Mendoza Mega

Ritual Winery

2014 Pinot Noir Valle de Casablanca Monster

[Admittedly, Pinot Noir isn’t usually my “thing.” In this case it was.]

2015 Chardonnay Valle de Cacablanca Supertuga Block

Grandes Vinos de San Pedro

2014 Valle de Cachapoal Andes Sideral [Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere, Syrah, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc]

2013 Valle de Cachapoal Andes Cabo del Hornos [Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah]

[Two outstanding blends. I really like the addition of Rhone varietals into the mix.]

Susana Balbo Wines

2011 Valle de Uco Nosotros Single Vineyard

2015 Torrontes Valle de Uco Barrel Fermented Signature

[The Torrontes, a white varietal, was clean and refreshing. The Valle de Uco Nosotros Malbec had amazing richness and depth of flavor.]

Valdivieso

2010 Carignan Valle de Maule Eclat Vigno

[Old vine Carignan and Monastrell. Wow! Opened my eyes to what Rhones can do here. ]

2013 Apalta Caballo Loco Grand Cru

Valsecchi Wines

2007 Valle Calchaquies Cafayate Desano [Malbec and Tannat]

2008 Valle Calchaquies Cafayate Altoandion [Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Tannat]

[Yes, these are the current releases. Winemaker Diego Valsecchi believes in holding back his wines until they are at their peak. Outstanding wines that are drinking great right now. I think this was Karen’s favorite table, although Diego’s charm may have had something to with that too.]

The above is just a sample of what was being poured at 46 tables. Overall, I was impressed with the quality, at all price points. At the lower end, you’d be hard pressed to get comparable quality in domestic wines. And the higher end wines were equal to great wines from anywhere. I got a lot of what I expected, plus some nice surprises. I was especially excited about the Rhone varietals, and James Suckling told me we can expect to see more of these. All of these wines are worth seeking out – Chile and Argentina are not just for bargain hunters any more. Sign up on JamesSuckling.com so you don’t miss future events.

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

Vintage Eve Circa Feb 2012: Wine Tasting on Cruise Ships

September 6, 2016 by evebushman

Cruise ship wine tastings are a nice diversion for a day at sea. And since it takes a day just to get to Glacier Bay in Alaska, and I wasn’t going to spend it all in the spa or playing Rummikub with my mother, carving out an hour of me time was not a problem. We enjoyed two wine pairings while on board the Holland America Zaandam; each one a sample of the different wine packages you could order from while on the cruise.

The movement of the boat, or some such excuse, restricted my notes so there are no “Eve Points” in today’s column. But I still had you in mind as I foraged ahead.

Premium Wine Tasting

Led by Cellar Master Rodrigo Geducos in the boat’s posh Pinnacle dining room, we began our escape with Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial, France, NV. (Non Vintage, aka NV, is common for most Champagnes.) Popped open just for us of course, I watched as the little bubbles danced into my glass. Notes of honeyed-sugar and green apple in our Champagne paired well with fresh strawberries.

Next came an 04 Lanzerac Chardonnay, South Africa, with a honey color in the glass, fresh oak on the nose, and but I thought it had an unpleasant taste. Geducos paired this with Brie, which helped blow off some of the wine’s aromas, and successfully tuned the pairing.

08 Willamette Valley Vineyards, Pinot Noir, had a young, fruity nose, dry, no tannins in the taste, and a light finish. Again, the pairing made this wine more remarkable: duck pate.

07 Hedges Red Mountain Blend, Family Vineyards, had a perfect nose and the taste held fully matured fruit, some pepper, tannins, and went well with goat cheese.

The last in this tasting was an 05 Silverado Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, with strong flavors of black pepper, wood and structured tannins. The blue cheese it was paired with, not my favorite Stilton Blue, was stronger than the wine deserved.

The wines I liked the best were the Champagne, the blend and the Cabernet.

“We hope that this selection is just enough to please you,” said Geducos. It was.

Navigator Wine Tasting

I gave you the premium first, opposite of what I’d do at home, where I save the best for last. But, as a dry audience, I thought I’d get your salivary glands activated by reversing the order. I’m confident that these should continue to whet your palate:

Again Cellar Master Geducos aptly led us through:

An 09 Robert Mondavi Riesling, Monterey County was full of banana and honey on the nose, pear flavors and a delightful effervescence that dissolved into a long velvety finish.

08 Danzante Pinot Grigio, Italy had a green floral nose, a high acid mouthfeel, more tang than sweet and quite dry.

09 Laboure Roi Pinot Noir, Burgundy, France that I really wanted to like, but with its unripe cherry nose, and empty taste, I hoped it was just too young and would have benefited with decanting.

05 Errazuriz 100% Merlot, Chile, had a great spicy nose, with jammy black cherry and pepper.

08 Diseno Malbec, Argentina, had a lovely mature fruit – almost a perfect plum – and was good to drink. Ordered for dinner that night too!

In this tasting I loved discovering the Riesling, Merlot and the Malbec.

UPDATED NEWS for STARS of Pinot 2016 and a Promo Code!

July 15, 2016 by evebushman

PINOT FANS WILL REJOICE – Next Wednesday!
The CHAMPAGNE of Pinot Events is here… NEXT Wednesday!
THE DIVA of PINOT EVENTS! No, more like the DEVO of Wine Events!

55 STARS of Pinot are invading LA next Wednesday Night! STARS of PINOT is here! And its bigger and better than last year. Some of The Worlds Best Pinot producers will be gathering in Los Angeles for an elite tasting event on Wednesday, July 20, 2016 at Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills.

Lets say you wanted to just come for the food… How does La Brea Bakery, Hudson Valley Fois Gras, Beemster Gouda, Olympia Provisions, Valrhona Chocolate, and many other artisan producers of fine provisions will be in attendance! In addition to the efforts of the SOFITEL providing a pasta bar and salad bar all night.

Lets say, it was about the wine… again, this event will not disappoint. From Champagne, France to the heart of the Russian River in Sonoma, from McMinnville, Oregon to Casablanca, Chile; from Burgundy to Santa Barbara and great vineyards in-between; wineLA is proud to announce their 2016 winery participants which includes Official Champagne Sponsor “Charles Heidsieck” (Yes, “Champagne” is made from Pinot), Albatross Ridge, Argot Wines, AVE Winery, Alexander Valley Winery Co, Balletto Vineyards, Bernardus Winery, Blair Estate, Breathless Wines, Brittan Vineyards, Cakebread Cellars, Casa Marin, Cellars 33, Center of Effort, Challen, Charles Heidsieck, Clos Pepe Estate, Decoy Wines, Dolin Estate, Donelan Family Wines, Domaine Nicolas-Jay, Ferrari-Carano, The 50 by 50, Flowers, Fog Crest Vineyard, Foley Family Wines, FOXEN , Frank Family Vineyard, Goldeneye, Guarachi Family, Gypsy Canyon Winery, Hanzell Vineyards, Hawkins Cellars, Hope & Grace Wines, J.Lohr, Keller Estate, Le Cadeau, Lumos Wine Co., Mansfield-Dunne, Melville Winery, Migration, Niner Wine Estates, Rocky Point Cellars, Senses Wines, Sonoma-Loeb Wines, Talley Vineyards, Temerity Vineyard, Testarossa Winery, The Hilt, Timbre Winery, Tolosa Winery, Westwood Annadel , Wonderment Wines, Wrath …. and the list goes on…. over 200 wines!! Also, the founder of the BAND DEVO, GERALD CASALE will be there pouring his wine and taking photos!!!

Adding both delicious bites and conversation; event partners CHEFS WAREHOUSE distributors of all things tasty, and suppliers to some of the greatest restaurants in LOS ANGELES will be producing a luxury food show inside this event. Guest Chefs will be invited to participate and enjoy the PINOT tasting at the same time. Gourmet Cheeses from some of the nations top producers, Charcuterie by the best: Olympia Provisions from Oregon, Chocolate (can you say Val Rhona?) Truffles, Premium Olive Oils as well as our sponsor LA BREA BAKERY will be showcasing their best. Panel hosts and refined lifestyle experts will also be appearing for a luxury food panel (6:00pm VIP evening ticket holders) hosted by LA Restaurant Critic and Book Author Patric KUH – Author of “Finding the Flavors We Lost: From Bread to Bourbon, How Artisans Reclaimed American Food” .

General Admission tickets can be purchased for $125 and includes unlimited wine tasting, and an exceptional assortment of appetizers, cheeses, and desserts all provided by some of the great sponsors mentioned above, the list is growing! Wine aficionados may choose to purchase a VIP ticket for $200, VIP includes early admission, a 6:00pm plated dinner, VIP gift bag, and an exclusive panel tasting (Panel A) with Amy Christine, A Master of Wine, who panels with Matt Dees- Jonata/ Hilt, Michael McNeill- Hanzell, Gerald Casale- The Fifty by Fifty, Jim Kress- Tolosa and Tom Mortimer- Le Cadeau or (Panel B) with Patric KUH, and named professions to be announced. All ticket purchasing guests will receive one complimentary take-home SCHOTT ZWIESEL Pinot Wine Glass – a $15 value!

Guests will also have a chance to bid on an array of extraordinary auction items: rare wines, dinners, collectables, and exciting trips ranging in value from $100 to $10,000+. One hundred percent of the silent auction proceeds benefit the TJ Martell Foundation, a Los Angeles based 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to supporting innovative groundbreaking research for leukemia, cancer, and AIDS. We have raised over $350,000, and want to continue raising money for this fantastic life changing cause!

Stars of Pinot will commence for General Admission at 7:00pm and VIP at 6:00pm… with wine pouring until 9:30pm and celebrated ex-KROQ (now-SIRIUS XN) DJ RICHARD BLADE will play music until 10pm.
PROMO CODE “GOPINOT” SAVES $20 until 3pm on the day of the event

For more information about Stars of Pinot or to purchase tickets, visit www.winela.com/starsofpinot or
call wineLA at (310) 451-7600.

To accomplish it’s mission, wineLA recognizes that wine must be placed in rhythm with fashion, music, food, geography, centers of interest, and architecture. Los Angeles is a giant playground with an amazing array of venues, spaces, wine bars, restaurants, beaches, rooftops, gardens, and magical views. wineLA is leaving a footprint of wine lifestyle by celebrating people, places, and passion. Come and enjoy!

Announcing STARS of Pinot

July 10, 2016 by evebushman

Over 60+ Pinot producers from around the world will be gathering in Los Angeles for an elite tasting event on Wednesday, July 20, 2016 at Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills.

Los Angeles, California – STARS of Pinot is back for a smashing event… we are preparing this to be wineLA’s biggest event in YEARS!!! From Champagne, France to the heart of the Russian River in Sonoma, from McMinnville Oregon to Casablanca Chile; from Burgundy to Santa Barbara and great vineyards in-between; wineLA is proud to announce their 2016 winery participants which includes Official Champagne Sponsor “Charles Heidsieck” (Yes, “Champagne” is made from Pinot), AVE Winery, AVV Winery Co, Balletto Vineyards, Breathless Wines, Bernardus Winery, Blair Estate, Brittan Vineyards, Cakebread Cellars, Casa Marin, Cellars 33, Center of Effort, Challen Winery, Clos Pepe Estate, Decoy, Dolin Family Cellars, Donelan, Domaine Nicolas-Jay, Ferrari-Carano , Flowers, Fog Crest Vineyard, FOXEN, Frank Family Vineyards, Goldeneye , Guarachi Family Wines, Hanzell Vineyards , Hope & Grace Wines, J. Lohr, Keller Estate, Le Cadeau, Mansfield-Dunne Wines, Migration, Niner Wine Estates, Rocky Point Cellars, Sonoma-Loeb Wines, Talley Vineyards, Temerity Vineyard, Testarossa, The Fifty by Fifty, The Hilt, Timbre Winery, Tolosa Winery, Westwood Annadel, Wrath…. and the list goes on.Adding both delicious bites and conversation; event partners CHEFS WAREHOUSE distributors of all things tasty, and suppliers to some of the greatest restaurants in LOS ANGELES will be producing a luxury food show inside this event. Guest Chefs will be invited to participate and enjoy the PINOT tasting at the same time. Gourmet Cheeses from some of the nations top producers, Charcuterie by the best: Olympia Provisions from Oregon, Chocolate (can you say Val Rhona?) Truffles, Premium Olive Oils as well as our sponsor LA BREA BAKERY will be showcasing their best. Panel hosts and refined lifestyle experts will also be appearing for a luxury food panel (6:00pm VIP evening ticket holders) hosted by LA Restaurant Critic and Book Author Patric KUH – Author of “Finding the Flavors We Lost: From Bread to Bourbon, How Artisans Reclaimed American Food”

General Admission tickets can be purchased for $125 and includes unlimited wine tasting, and an exceptional assortment of appetizers, cheeses, and desserts all provided by some of the great sponsors mentioned above, the list is growing! Wine aficionados may choose to purchase a VIP ticket for $200, VIP includes early admission, a 6:00pm plated dinner, VIP gift bag, and a exclusive panel tasting (Panel A) with Amy Christine, A Master of Wine, who panels with Matt Dees- Jonata/ Hilt, Michael McNeill- Hanzell, Gerald Casale- The Fifty by Fifty, and Tom Mortimer- Le Cadeau or (Panel B) with Patric KUH, and named professions to be announced. All ticket purchasing guests will receive one complimentary take-home SCHOTT ZWIESEL Pinot Wine Glass – a $15 value!

Stars of Pinot will commence for General Admission at 7:00p.m., and VIP at 6:00p.m.

For more information about Stars of Pinot or to purchase tickets, visit www.winela.com/starsofpinot or
call wineLA at (310) 451-7600.

About wineLA
wineLA is focused on enhancing the wine culture of Los Angeles. wineLA hosts significant events, occasional classes, wine programs, private client in-home wine experiences, and tastings of merit. This is the second phase of what the organization started 20 years ago at LearnAboutWine.com – America’s first wine education website and first in wine event creation!!To accomplish it’s mission, wineLA recognizes that wine must be placed in rhythm with fashion, music, food, geography, centers of interest, and architecture. Los Angeles is a giant playground with an amazing array of venues, spaces, wine bars, restaurants, beaches, rooftops, gardens, and magical views. wineLA is leaving a footprint of wine lifestyle by celebrating people, places, and passion. Come and enjoy!

WINESELLERS, LTD. ACCEPTS “IMPORTER OF THE YEAR” AWARD FROM WINE ENTHUSIAST MAGAZINE

January 31, 2016 by evebushman

Chicago Based, Family Owned Importer Earns 2015 Wine Star Award

(CHICAGO, Ill.; January 26, 2016) – Last night, Chicago based importer Winesellers, Ltd. accepted the 2015 Wine Star Award for “Importer of the Year” in New York City at the Wine Enthusiast Magazine “Wine Star Awards” black-tie gala which took place at The New York Public Library. Each year since 2000, the editors of Wine Enthusiast honor the individuals and companies that have made outstanding achievements in the wine and beverage industry with the magazine’s annual award ceremony.

Winesellers, Ltd., founded in 1978 by Yale Sager, is now overseen day-to-day by his two sons, Adam Sager and Jordan Sager. All three were in attendance to accept the award. The company imports and sells wines to all 50 U.S. states with a diverse portfolio of producers and brands from Argentina, France, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Italy, New Zealand and other countries worldwide that can be found in premier retailers and restaurants throughout the U.S.Winesellers, Ltd. imports renowned producers such as Besserat de Bellefon Champagne, Portugal’s Quinta de la Rosa and Argentina’s Familia Zuccardi (also named a nominee for New World Winery of the Year in 2015 by Wine Enthusiast). The importer is also reputed for sourcing and developing its own highly regarded brands like Tortoise Creek from California’s Lodi and Central Coast regions; Sea Pearl from Marlborough, New Zealand; Tiamo, organic wines crafted from a collection of small organic certified growers throughout Italy; and La Fiera and Gran Passione, regional Italian wines showcasing the country’s rich diversity from the northern border all the way to Sicily.“We are so honored to have received this accolade and will strive to live up to the excellence of the award. I am proud to be building Winesellers, Ltd. with my brother Jordan and my father, who founded our company 38 years ago,” said Vice President Adam Sager. “The Wine Star Award is a testament to my fathers tireless work over the years and his commitment to our employees, suppliers and wholesalers – many of whom have been with us since the beginning. We are committed to working with family producers and aim to bring consumers the best wine values through market driven activities that build lasting relationships,” he added.

ABOUT WINESELLERS, LTD.
Founded in 1978 by Yale Sager, Winesellers, Ltd. is a second generation, family-owned and globally recognized importer and marketer of fine wines to the U.S. market. The company’s portfolio represents the finest quality of wines in their respective price category and has widespread distribution in all 50 U.S. states.

Winesellers, Ltd. portfolio includes:

Argentina: Santa Julia, Zuccardi (Mendoza)
Australia: Hope Estate Family Vineyards (Hunter Valley/Western Australia)
Austria: Pratsch (Niederosterreich)
California: Tortoise Creek (Lodi/Clarksburg/Central Coast), Santa Barbara Winery, Lafond Winery & Vineyards (Santa Rita Hills), Vinum Cellars (Central Coast, Napa/Clarksburg)
Chile: Hacienda Araucano (Colchagua)
France: Besserat de Bellefon (Champagne), Charles Armand, EXEM Bordeaux, Mont Gravet, Le Charmel, Avive
Germany: Heinz Eifel, Dr. H. Thanisch-Muller Burggraef, Dr. Pauly-Bergweiler, Bollig Lehnert, Dr. Heyden, Fitz Ritter, Eifel-Pfeiffer
Italy: Tiamo Organic, Bellafina Sparkling, La Fiera, Gran Passione, Prodigo
New Zealand: Sea Pearl, Fault Line, Fire Road (Marlborough), Murdoch James (Martinborough)
Portugal: Quinta de la Rosa (Duoro)
Spain: Mas Fi Cava (Penedes), Resso (D.O. Catalunya), Pazo Torrado (D.O. Rias Baixas), Clos de Nit (D.O. Montsant) Dominois de Castilla (D.O. Rueda, Toro & Ribera del Duero), Navardia (D.O.C Rioja)
Artisan Ciders: Manoir de Grandouet, Domaine de la Minotiere, Cidrerie Dausfrene (Normandy), Le Brun de Bretagne (Brittany), Bodegas Mayador (Asturias)

For more information, visit www.winesellersltd.com and follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Vintage Beacon Circa March 2010: Chile Came to Santa Clarita

December 22, 2015 by evebushman

On March 6 I interviewed Chef Tamra Levine about her inspired interpretation of Chilean fare for a wine pairing dinner at Salt Creek Grille. A month later, and I’m still ranting about it. But the difference is that I’ve now had the dinner.

You may have remembered last Thursday. The winds whipped up to try and keep us all nestled indoors. But, at exactly 6:15, after I had whipped my own coif up into a tightly fastened “do”, it all calmed down.

I had to imagine that the same thing might be happening in the kitchens at Salt Creek Grille. Along with their regular Thursday night bustle, they made an impressive inaugural debut in their catering department. And not any of the items were off of the menu; it was all created just for us.

Introduction: Chile 101

Whisked into the tightly tented outdoor bar unlike no other, guests were greeted with full flutes of sparkling wine – not on our printed menu.

From there we were seated, and like any classy event, were assigned to tables with people of like tastes. I was thrilled to find myself placed with Lil Lepore and Shari Fraizer, owners of Vino 100 Valencia. We enjoyed some fun “shop talk.”

Within minutes Greg Amsler, in between meetings for his man-of-the year nomination, welcomed us and introduced Tamra, who in turn, thanked us for attending the first of several regional wine pairing meals she had planned. I wanted her to tell the crowd that she is the only caterer and near sommelier in our valley equipped to create the meals and choose the wines for them, but being far more modest than I am, she instead introduced Alex Guarchi, president of TGIC Importers to talk to the crowd.

“I want to thank you all for taking the time to come to a dinner, during this recession. Taking the time for wine – if we don’t do that – there is something wrong with that picture.”

“Taste is very subjective I believe. You have to be open to the wine and food and let them speak for themselves. You will have light wines with the lighter food and then be introduced to bigger wines.”

“You’ve undoubtedly heard several do’s and don’ts with wine. Who here knows which fish is okay to have with a Pinot Noir?” To which Lil Lepore confidently answered, “Salmon!”

The Courses Begin

While Alex spoke, our first course arrived: Empanada de Camerone Humitas, Calabaza, Corn and Coconut soup with Pisco Sours. Pisco is a brandy made of Muscatel grapes in Chile and Peru; no one knows who created it first. The bar staff mixed it with egg whites, lime and sugar. The egg whites coated my tongue in a sugary glaze – the perfect aperitif to the soup and empanada.

Next came pan seared Chilean Sea Bass Moho paired with a low French oaked 2007 Santa Ema Reserve Chardonnay. Guests commented that the delicate fish balanced well with the wine.

Merken dusted Pheasant Breast Medallions stuffed with Chilean mushrooms made me wonder where you could get pheasant in SCV. Served over a bed of Chorizo laced Quinoa Risotto, I was surprised to learn from Tamra that the quinoa was an ancient grain and actually the seed of a plant. Paired with 2007 Montes Alpha Pinot Noir aged 12 months in French Oak, my palate was experiencing heaven.

Then, if that wasn’t enough, on came the Adobo Marinated Flank Steak with Chilean salsa, Potato and Onion Timbale and a 2005 Santa Ema Catalina. I was left to try and choose which of the reds I enjoyed more…and couldn’t do it.

Sneaking back to the kitchens to see the more-than-competent staff create the dessert, I shot some fun photos and then raced back as not to miss a bite. I did note that there was a friendly feel among them and I was happy to see that a meal this noteworthy could be managed so pleasantly.

My Dulce de Leche Ice Cream with raspberries, apricots and a to-die-for perfectly warmed Caramel Shot was accompanied by a 2008 Montes late harvest Gewurztraminer. I don’t usually eat desserts. I don’t usually enjoy late harvest wines. But, then again, I’d never had Chilean food in my life. It was not a night for usual tastes; it was one that was as Alex Guarchi had suggested, “Be open to the wine and food – and let them speak for themselves.”

Our 12th Time Tasting…Guess?

November 20, 2015 by evebushman

Lots of new faces at this year’s annual holiday tasting, though most of the wine representatives serving pour after pour had been present before. Lovers of wine, in general, populated the 12th Annual Holiday Wine Tasting hosted by Guy Lelarge at Valencia Wine Company.

Southern Wine and Spirits rep Raquel Dominguez.

The wine store had converted its tall tabletops into wine pouring stations. Guests meandered through nearly a dozen of these, tasting Champagnes, Prosecco, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, white and red blends, Pinot Noir, Barolo, Syrah, Tempranillo, Bordeaux, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Carmenere, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon – from sources close by like Santa Ynez, Santa Barbara, Paso Robles and Napa, to parts further out like France, Italy, Portugal, Chile and Spain.
The wine representatives offered a wealth of knowledge for every wine they poured: stories about the winemakers, top scores and pricing. We found ourselves checking off over a dozen wines we wanted to take home, and take advantage of the 20% case discount offered to guests of the tasting. Some of my favorites, that I can recall after the haze of a great tasting has worn off, are in italics below.

The story in a video slideshow can be viewed in less than 2 minutes here.

The Wine List at Press Time

Champagne

POL ROGER BRUT NV

LOUIS ROEDERER BRUT PREMIER

LOUIS ROEDERER BRUT ROSE 2009

LOUIS ROEDERER BRUT 2008

(We started by tasting the champagnes poured at the Southern Wine and Spirits table by wine rep Raquel Dominguez. Starting here not only got us into a festive mood, I checked off nearly every one to buy later. My uppermost favorite was the Rose. I’m not a fan of sweet Rose wines – like our domestic White Zinfandel can be – but I do like the delicate aromas and flavors in a French Rose, and even better if bubbles are included!)

White wines

REGNARD CHABLIS GRAND REGNARD 2013 (This wine, which the wine rep said the family had been making since the 1700s, was in a bottle shape that was reminiscent of the era. The taste was most unique – especially when tasted side-by-side with another French Chardonnay. The Regnard a wine made from Chardonnay grapes in Chablis, France. We could really tell the difference in the “terroir” between where these two wines were made. Made me want to try Chablis against a Chardonnay again.)

SCHLUMBERGER RIESLING SAERING 2010

LATOUR MONTAGNY LA GRANDE ROCHE 1er Cru 2013

BRASSFIELD PINOT GRIS HIGH SERENITY 2013

MER SOLEIL CHARDONNAY RESERVE, SANTA BARBARA 2012 (Well done.)

CARPE DIEM CHARDONNAY 2013

GARY FARRELL CHARDONNAY RESERVE 2012

Red Wines

CH DE PEZ 11 ST ESTEPHE

HENRY FESSY FLEURIE CHT LABOURON Cru Beaujolais 2011

FAIVELEY MERCUREY CLOS MYGLANDS 2011

JL COLOMBO CORNAS TERRE BRULEES 2012 (I’d been to a wine tasting and seminar with winemaker Jean Luc Colombo. I loved his wines and his brash personality. This 100% Syrah did not fail to disappoint either.)

MARQ MURRIETA RIOJA RSV 2010 (Another tasty choice.)

DELAS ST JOSEPH TOURNON 2013

ETUDE PINOT NOIR 2013

FLOWERS PINOT NOIR 2013 (A perfect Pinot Noir, fans of the grape variety would love this one.)

CARPE DIEM PINOT NOIR 2012

ROCHE BAROLO 2011 (What made this wine remarkable is that it was the first “drink now” Barolo I have ever had. Wine rep Robert Pozzi said that was why he selected it. Very balanced and good – to go!)

HANNA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013 (Out of Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, this Cab was lovely.)

THORN MERLOT 2012 (Don’t like Merlot? Do you like Cab? Give the sister wine to Cab a try – it was delightful.)

Wines that were added in at the event that I recall liking also included the Triple C blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere, Santa Rita Maipo Valley, Chile; Niner Winery 2010 Twister Spur, Syrah Grenache blend from Paso Robles; 2013 Atlas Peak Cabernet Sauvignon; 2012 Periquita Reserva (a lovely red wine from Portugal); Robert Hall Meritage Bordeaux blend, Paso Robles; Franciscan Estate, Napa Valley, 2012 Magnificat Meritage red Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc; 2013 Ferdinand Tempranillo, Napa, California; 2009 Enantio (the grape is Enantio) Valdadige Terradeiforti, red wine from Italy.

Eve’s Wine 101 Event Picks: Wine LA has continuous classes and events including Learn about Coravin 11/29, LA Scotch Club also has great events, Pinot Days 11/21, Wine & Cheese Tasting at Four Brix Winery in Ventura 11/22 and LA Rail’s Vino Train travels to Santa Barbara.

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years. She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits that may be answered in a future column. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Vintage Eve Circa Dec. 2010: Kosher Wine

November 17, 2015 by evebushman

I’m challenging myself this week to learn more about kosher wines and basically soak your holidays past New Years.

I’ve had the kosher Manischewitz wine at a couple of Bris ceremonies: Fruit juice that a newborn boy could happily suckle off of a soft cloth for anesthetic purposes. I only tolerated it as that was all they were serving and the Mohel let me get up close to watch. But, what if you want to give a nice Kosher wine as a Hanukkah present or serve for any Jewish holiday?

Hhere is a more comprehensive report:

The internet site for the Kosher Wine Guy has recommendations, Head to Head taste tests and a list of wines that recently won awards at Vinitaly.

The Wine Spectator magazine’s website had these few highly rated offerings:

Golan Heights Gewürztraminer Galilee Yarden Heights Wine 2005, released just this past October, was rated 90 points and only priced at $23. Thick and rich, showing luscious flavors of glazed apricot, pineapple, baked apple and spice, with a very long and honeyed finish. Kosher. Drink now through 2015.

(But you might have trouble finding it at only 967 cases made. Yarden of Israel also makes the same varietal; but with even less availability.)

Château Smith-Haut-Lafitte Pessac-Léognan Kosher 2000 & 2002 (A little pricy for $175 but sounds interesting.) Aromas of spice, earth and meat with just a hint of tobacco. Fruity. Full-bodied, with spicy, tar and earthy character. Very intense, almost funky. Long, velvety finish.

Château de Valandraud St.-Emilion Kosher 2001 – 2003: Subtle and multilayered on the nose with Indian spices, berries and raspberries. Full, silky and refined with lovely fruit and a medium finish. Very pretty. This has developed nicely. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. (Both I found available for purchase at bottleshop.com.)

Then I got an email from Martin Davidson, a wine distributor for Royal Wines, and hit the jackpot! With Kosher wines hailing from 10 different countries, and a local tasting room in nearby Oxnard, this may warrant a part 2 (Comments from readers will let me know if there is enough interest for me to travel to Oxnard)…but here’s what I have so far from Martin:

Our Californian wines are under the Herzog and Baron Herzog labels; Covenant has been made there too. On the East coast we do the local Kedem and import from France (Bordeaux and Burgundy) Italy, Spain, Portugal, Australia, NZ, South Africa, Chile, Argentina, Hungary and of course Israel.

Once you have visited the winery you will see and taste the quality level we have ascended to (hopefully) and according to leading critics.

Specifically for Hanukah I would recommend a Bartenura Moscato, Teal Lake Sparkling Muscat or an Israeli Cab-Petit Verdot. Traditionally we look to pair with Latkes, Donuts and Light fare for the festivities.