Vintage Eve 7/2015: Judging The Long Beach Grand Cru

September 18, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

I was a little fretful…panicked is actually the right word, about judging the Long Beach Grand Cru for two days after only serving as a guest judge in the LA Wine Competition two years ago…once. I recognized the names of some of the judges, and personally knew quite a few, but I thought I better up my game and do some research.

I read Factors Considered in Wine Evaluation by Alexis Hartung (printed in the Winter Issue, 1999 AWS Journal Volume 31, No. 4 found online: http://www.bjcp.org/mead/Factors_Wine_Eval.pdf) and then I was also lucky enough to find the actual Judging Process that the Long Beach Grand Cru uses on their website. (It turned out that I was ready, even before doing the review work.)

Shenanigans?

There were no shenanigans during the judging process, but it WAS fun. All those numbered wine glasses crowding around me waiting to be swirled, sniffed, tasted and spat was also accompanied by the appropriate items to cleanse any palate: green olives, sliced gray beef, water crackers and waxy no-flavor cheese. (Good thing our meals were fully flavored!)

Panel l to r – David Stevens, Joe Hart, Stephen Young and Mike Stepanovich

The panel I was assigned to was led by David Stevens (Senior Wine Consultant, Davon International), and included Joe Hart (Hart Winery), Mike Stepanovich (Wine Journalist, Bakersfield, CA.) and Stephen H. Young (graduate of the American Wine Society Wine Judge Certification Program).

These knowledgeable gentleman, and the wine, made my nervousness fall away pretty quickly. Soon we were moving at a good pace. At the end of each round we discussed our findings and came to a consensus if a wine received no medal, bronze, silver or gold.

There was so much thought and consideration in awarding each medal if made me pause, how often do you pause and consider buying a wine based on a medal? As much as you do a wine with a high numerical score? You are doing wineries a disservice to only consider one ranking body, in my now-educated opinion.

Each panel, there were 26 judges in all, had nearly 100 wines to judge on the first day, about half that they second, and finally did a round of sweepstakes “sweeps” to determine which of the Gold medals were all-around favorites of all the judges. Many of the entries and winners came from small producers outside of California.

There was a distinct level of camaraderie amongst the judges as some had been doing the Long Beach Grand Cru competition for 20+ years. It was an honor to join them that I hope to repeat annually.

Dinner, More Wine, and the Point of it All

Day one closed with a wonderful dinner and unlimited wine tasting (wines from the day and more) at Parker’s Lighthouse. Our private room was full and during the first hour or so many of the judges, Long Beach Grand Cru Board of Director members and volunteers spilled out into the patio for a view of the Queen Mary.

It was then that a tall gentleman wearing a cowboy slipped a bottled of wine from Stolpman Vineyards onto the tasting table. It took me about a nanosecond to figure out who that was. Tom Stolpman is also on the Board of Directors. A second after that I learned that he met fellow board member, James McAdams, in law school in the 70s and the two practiced in the same Long Beach firm.

Executive Producer Kim Vu welcomed the diners and introduced organizer Magdalena “Maggie” Davis, who in turn thanked the volunteers. Judge and local SCV sommelier, George Skorka then stood up to say “(he received) dignity and kindness from volunteers, my life is better because we spend two days here.”

“An amazing crew has done this for 21 years and the Board of Directors of the Grand Cru thanks you,” Executive Director, Silvia Arqueta said. “All of the money made from the event goes to the legal aid of Long Beach and the lawyers that dedicate themselves to poverty law. Long Beach has the second highest number of children living in poverty and they work to lower that number every year.”

Tom Stolpman commented that we need to reach out and help others by serving in city council, etc., as that helps the common good and that equals legal aid. “At the end of the day the message of tonight is that we all walk out of here thinking that we are doing better and maybe not enough. Thank you for feeling that.” It was a sobering thought.

The Winners

Sweepstakes Nominees

Alba Vineyard, Chambourcin, 2012, Alba Estate Vineyard Chambourcin, Warren Hills

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Cabernet Franc, 2013, Estate Bottled & Produced, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Anyela’s Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, 2013 Riesling, Estate Grown & Bottled, Finger Lakes

Balletto Vineyards, Rose of Pinot Noir, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Russian River

Bex, Riesling, 2013, Nahe

Bodegas Marilena, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, 2012, Maxixe, Valle de Guadalupe

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Block II & Langley, Riesling, 2014, Block II & Langley, Estate Blend, Michigan

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Medium Dry, Riesling, 2014, Smokey Hollow, Single Vineyard, Old Mission Peninsula

Cakebread Cellars, Dancing Bear Ranch, 2012, Dancing Bear Ranch, Howell Mountain

Calista, Russian River Pinot Noir, 2012, Russian River Valley

Carmen, Carmenere Gran Reserva, 2012, Chile, Colchagua Valley

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, The Blessed Blend White, NV, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Rhode Island

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, 42° Parallel Chancellor, 2010, Rhode Island

Cedar Creek Winery, Pinot Grigio, 2014, American

Cholame Vineyard, Cross Country, 2012, Cholame Vineyard, Barrel Aged, California, Monterey County

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Icewine, NV, American

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2012, New York

Daniel Gehrs, Rocker Rarities, 2012, Central Coast

Dellatorri, Pinot Grigio, 2014, delle Venezie IGT

Easley Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Indiana

Easley Winery, Sweet Barrel Red, NV, Indiana

Elmaro, West Prairie White, 2014, Reserve, America (Country Appellation)

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, 45 White, 2014, Michigan

Fre, Sparkling Brut, NV, California

Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvée, 2006, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Blancs, NV, Carneros

Goose Watch Winery, Cabernet Franc Rosé, 2014, Finger Lakes

Grape Creek Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, American

Harmony Cellars, Petite Sirah, 2013, Paso Robles

Havens, Merlot Blend, 2012, Napa Valley

Hawley, Pinot Noir, 2013, Oehlman Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Lohr Estates, Los Osos Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Joseph Cellars Winery, ZINFANDEL, 2011, Dry Creek Valley, Limited Production, California, Sonoma County

Lopez Island Vineyards and Winery, Siegerrebe, 2014, Estate, Certified Organically Grown Grapes, Puget Sound

Lucky Star, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marc Cellars, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Noceto, Rosato di Sangiovese, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Noceto, Sangiovese, 2012, Reserva, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Pearmund Cellars, Ameritage Reserve, 2013, Reserve, Virginia

Pedroncelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Estate, Dry Creek Valley

pureCru Winery, pureCoz Napa Valley Red Wine, 2010, Napa Valley (AVA)

pureCru Winery, CFM, 2011, Napa Valley

Red Soles Stillhouse, Limoncello – New Brandy infused with lemons, NV, California, Paso Robles

St. James Winery, Strawberry, NV, American

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Gewurztraminer, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Snow Owl, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Twirl, Chardonnay, 2012, California

TWOFOLD, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Small Lot Wine, California, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

Wagner Vineyards, Fathom 107, 2013, Finger Lakes

Wollersheim Winery, Dry Riesling, 2014, American

Red Soles Stillhouse, Limoncello – New Brandy infused with lemons, NV, California, Paso Robles

Daniel Gehrs, Rocker Rarities, 2012, Central Coast

Goose Watch Winery, Cabernet Franc Rosé, 2014, Finger Lakes

Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvée, 2006, Carneros

Elmaro, West Prairie White, 2014, Reserve, America (Country Appellation)

Chairman’s Best of Class

Alba Vineyard, Chambourcin, 2012, Alba Estate Vineyard Chambourcin, Warren Hills

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Cabernet Franc, 2013, Estate Bottled & Produced, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Anyela’s Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, 2013 Riesling, Estate Grown & Bottled, Finger Lakes

Bex, Riesling, 2013, Nahe

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Block II & Langley, Riesling, 2014, Block II & Langley, Estate Blend, Michigan

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Medium Dry, Riesling, 2014, Smokey Hollow, Single Vineyard, Old Mission Peninsula

Carmen, Carmenere Gran Reserva, 2012, Chile, Colchagua Valley

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, The Blessed Blend White, NV, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Rhode Island

Cedar Creek Winery, Pinot Grigio, 2014, American

Cholame Vineyard, Cross Country, 2012, Cholame Vineyard, Barrel Aged, California, Monterey County

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2012, New York

Daniel Gehrs, Rocker Rarities, 2012, Central Coast

Dellatorri, Pinot Grigio, 2014, delle Venezie IGT

Easley Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Indiana

Elmaro, West Prairie White, 2014, Reserve, America (Country Appellation)

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, 45 White, 2014, Michigan

Fre, Sparkling Brut, NV, California

Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvée, 2006, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Blancs, NV, Carneros

Grape Creek Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, American

Harmony Cellars, Petite Sirah, 2013, Paso Robles

Havens, Merlot Blend, 2012, Napa Valley

Hawley, Pinot Noir, 2013, Oehlman Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Lohr Estates, Los Osos Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Lopez Island Vineyards and Winery, Siegerrebe, 2014, Estate, Certified Organically Grown Grapes, Puget Sound

Lucky Star, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marc Cellars, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Noceto, Sangiovese, 2012, Reserva, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Pedroncelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Estate, Dry Creek Valley

pureCru Winery, CFM, 2011, Napa Valley

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Gewurztraminer, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Snow Owl, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Twirl, Chardonnay, 2012, California

TWOFOLD, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Small Lot Wine, California, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

Wagner Vineyards, Fathom 107, 2013, Finger Lakes

Wollersheim Winery, Dry Riesling, 2014, American

Double Gold Medal Winners

Balletto Vineyards, Rose of Pinot Noir, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Russian River

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, The Blessed Blend White, NV, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Rhode Island

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Icewine, NV, American

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2012, New York

Cycles Gladiator, Petite Sirah, 2013, California, Central Coast

Easley Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Indiana

Easley Winery, Sweet Barrel Red, NV, Indiana

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, 45 White, 2014, Michigan

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, 45 Bubbly, 2014, Michigan

Fre, Sparkling Brut, NV, California

Havens, Merlot Blend, 2012, Napa Valley

Hooker, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

Lohr Estates, Los Osos Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Milbrandt Vineyards, Traditions Merlot, 2012, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Milbrandt Vineyards, Traditions Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Pearmund Cellars, Ameritage Reserve, 2013, Reserve, Virginia

Pedroncelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Estate, Dry Creek Valley

pureCru Winery, pureCoz Napa Valley Red Wine, 2010, Napa Valley (AVA)

Reggae Wines, Red, NV, Indiana

St. James Winery, Moscato, NV, American

St. James Winery, Strawberry, NV, American

Swedish Hill Winery, Vignoles, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Snow Owl, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Wagner Vineyards, Fathom 107, 2013, Finger Lakes

Gold Medal Winners

Alba Vineyard, Chambourcin, 2012, Alba Estate Vineyard Chambourcin, Warren Hills

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Cabernet Franc, 2013, Estate Bottled & Produced, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Andeluna, Malbec, 2014, 1300, Mendoza, Tupungato

Angove Family Winemakers, Family Crest Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre, 2014, McLaren Vale

Anyela’s Vineyards, Dry Riesling, 2013, Anyela’s Vineyards, Finger Lakes

Anyela’s Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, 2013 Riesling, Estate Grown & Bottled, Finger Lakes

Barefoot, Sweet Red, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Red Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Berry Fusion, NV, California

Barefoot Refresh, Perfectly Pink, NV, California

Bex, Riesling, 2013, Nahe

Big Cork Vineyards, Vidal, 2014, Maryland

Bodega Garzón, Albariño, 2014, Uruguay

Bodega Garzón, Tannat, 2013, Uruguay

Bodegas Marilena, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, 2012, Maxixe, Valle de Guadalupe

Boeger Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, El Dorado

Boeger Winery, Zinfandel, 2013, Estate, El Dorado

Bowers Habor Vineyards Medium Sweet, Riesling, 2014, Estate Blend, Old Mission Peninsula

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Block II & Langley, Riesling, 2014, Block II & Langley, Estate Blend, Michigan

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Medium Dry, Riesling, 2014, Smokey Hollow, Single Vineyard, Old Mission Peninsula

Broadside, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Margarita Vineyard, Single Vineyard, Paso Robles

Cakebread Cellars, Dancing Bear Ranch, 2012, Dancing Bear Ranch, Howell Mountain

Calista, Russian River Pinot Noir, 2012, Russian River Valley

Carmen, Carmenere Gran Reserva, 2012, Chile, Colchagua Valley

Carol Shelton, Zinfandel, 2013, Wild Thing Zinfandel, Mendocino County

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, 42° Parallel Chancellor, 2010, Rhode Island

Cartlidge & Browne, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, North Coast

Cedar Creek Winery, Pinot Grigio, 2014, American

Cedar Creek Winery, Waterfall Riesling, 2014, American

Chacewater, Petite Sirah, 2012, Lake County

Chatom Vineyards, Cuvee, 2011, Calaveras County

Cholame Vineyard, Chardonnay, 2012, La Presa Vineyard, Oak Aged, Santa Barbara County

Cholame Vineyard, Cross Country, 2012, Cholame Vineyard, Barrel Aged, California, Monterey County

Clos Pegase Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

Cobblestone Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2009, Napa Valley, Atlas Peak

Cosentino Winery, Zinfandel, 2013, The Zin, Lodi

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Brianna, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Fireboat Red, 2013, New York

Criterion, Carmenere, 2013, Valle Colchagua

Criterion, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Coonawarra

Cycles Gladiator, Chardonnay, 2013, California, Central Coast

Daniel Gehrs, Rocker Rarities, 2012, Central Coast

Dellatorri, Pinot Grigio, 2014, delle Venezie IGT

Dominant Seven, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Draxton, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Nelson Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley

Draxton, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Elmaro, West Prairie White, 2014, Reserve, America (Country Appellation)

Eye Chart, Red Blend, NV, California

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, Chenin Blanc, 2014, American

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, Riesling, 2013, Leelanau Peninsula

Four Vines, Zinfandel “Biker”, 2012, Biker, Paso Robles

Four Vines, Zinfandel “The Sophisticate”, 2012, California, Sonoma County

Four Vines, Zinfandel “Truant”, 2012, Truant, California (State Appellation)

Fresno State Winery, Touriga, 2012, Duarte Vineyards, California

Fulkerson Wine Cellars, Juicy Sweet Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Gallo Family Vineyards, Moscato, NV, California

Girl and Dragon, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Veneto IGT

Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvée, 2006, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Blancs, NV, Carneros

Goose Watch Winery, Traminette, 2014, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Cabernet Franc Rosé, 2014, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Cabernet Franc Ice, 2013, Finger Lakes

Goyette, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Sonoma County

Grape Creek Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Cabernet Trois, 2013, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Mosaic – Bourdeaux blend, 2013, American

Hagafen, Cabernet Franc, 2012, Estate Bottled, Napa Valley

Hagafen, Brut Cuvee Sparkling Wine Methode Champenoise, 2012, Brut, California, Napa Valley

Harmony Cellars, Petite Sirah, 2013, Paso Robles

Havens, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Hawley, Pinot Noir, 2013, Oehlman Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Hyatt Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Hyatt Vineyards, Rattlesnake Hills

Lohr Estates, Flume Crossing Sauvigon Blanc, 2014, Arroyo Seco (AVA)

Jamieson Ranch Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

Joseph Cellars Winery, ZINFANDEL, 2011, Dry Creek Valley, Limited Production, California, Sonoma County

Joseph Cellars Winery, CABERNET SAUVIGNON, 2011, Bartholomew Family Vineryard, Estate, California, Napa Valley

Judd’s Hill, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Rutherford, Napa

L.A. Cetto, L.A. CETTO ZINFANDEL, 2013, valle de guadalupe, Estate Bottled, Baja California, Valle de Guadalupe

La Chertosa Old World Wines, Zinfandel, 2013, Reserve, Amador County

La Chertosa Old World Wines, Chardonnay, 2013, Reserve, Sonoma Valley

La Chertosa Old World Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2010, Reserve, Napa Valley (AVA)

La Marca, Prosecco, NV, Veneto IGT

Light Horse, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Lopez Island Vineyards and Winery, Siegerrebe, 2014, Estate, Certified Organically Grown Grapes, Puget Sound

Lucas & Lewellen, Malbec, 2012, Valley View Vineyard, Estate Vineyards, California, Santa Barbara County

Lucky Star, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Lucky Star, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Lucky Star, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Main & Geary, Petite Sirah, 2013, California

Main & Geary, Zinfandel, 2012, Dry Creek Valley

Marc Cellars, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Menage a Trois, Prosecco, NV, Prosecco DOC

Myles & Moore, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

Narmada Winery, Yash-Vir, 2011, Virginia

Noceto, Rosato di Sangiovese, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Noceto, Sangiovese, 2012, Reserva, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Oak Farm Vineyards, Barbera, 2013, Lodi

Oak Mountain Winery, Pinotage, 2012, Estate Grown, Temecula Valley

Open Kimono, Riesling, 2013, Washington

Pedernales Cellars, Pedernales Cellars Texas Viognier Reserve, 2014, Reserve, Texas

pureCru Winery, CFM, 2011, Napa Valley

Ray’s Creek, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Central Coast

Red Soles Stillhouse, California Hooch – New Brandy, NV, California, Paso Robles

Red Soles Stillhouse, Limoncello – New Brandy infused with lemons, NV, California, Paso Robles

Reggae Wines, Blush, NV, Indiana

Rex Goliath, Pinot Noir*, NV, America

Rex Goliath, Sauvignon Blanc*, NV, Australia

Rex Goliath, Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, Chile

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Sonoma County Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Save Me San Francisco, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Bullet Proof Sauvignon Blanc, California

SeaGlass, Chardonnay, 2014, California, Santa Barbara County

SeaGlass, Riesling, 2013, Monterey County

South Creek Vineyards & Winery, 2011 Maestro, 2011, South Creek Vineyards & Winery, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, North Carolina

St. James Winery, Vignoles, 2014, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, Blackberry, NV, American

St. James Winery, Blueberry, NV, American

Stonehedge, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Sweet Red, NV, California

Swedish Hill Winery, Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Blue Waters Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Terra dOro, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Santa Barbara County

Terra dOro, Zinfandel, 2013, Amador County

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Riesling, 2014, Lahoma Vineyard, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Chardonnay, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Gewurztraminer, 2014, Finger Lakes

Trailhead, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Trecini, MERLOT, 2013, DUNN, California, Russian River Valley

Twirl, Chardonnay, 2012, California

TWOFOLD, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Small Lot Wine, California, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

Ventana, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Ventana, Estate Grown, Arroyo Seco (AVA)

Viansa Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Sonoma Valley

Vina Ventisquero, Carmenere, 2012, Colchagua

Vista da Régua, Port Blend, 2013, Caráter, Douro DOC

Wagner Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, Finger Lakes

Wakefield/Taylors, Wakefield/Taylors Merlot, 2014, Australia, Clare Valley

Wave Series, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Leyda Valley

Whispering Oaks Winery, Blueberry Blush, 2015, Florida

Windsor Vineyards, Zinfandel, 2013, Platinum Series, Dry Creek Valley

Windsor Vineyards, Merlot, 2013, Platinum Series, Alexander Valley

Wine Sisterhood, Passionate Pinot Grigio, NV, California

Wollersheim Winery, Prairie Fume, 2014, American

Wollersheim Winery, Dry Riesling, 2014, American

ZD, Pinot Noir, 2013, Carneros

Silver Medal Winners

2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Project Z, 2013, Washington

2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Meyer Reserve, Washington

3 Ball, Zinfandel, 2012, California

Acronym, Red Blend, 2013, California

Adored, Red Blend, 2013, California, North Coast

Alba Vineyard, Chelsea Dry Rosé, 2014, Chelsea Dry Rosé, Warren Hills

Alba Vineyard, Riesling, 2014, Alba Estate Vineyard Dry Riesling, Warren Hills

Alcantara Vineyards, Red Blend, NV, Confluence VI, Arizona, Yavapai County

Alcantara Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, Arizona, Yavapai County

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Merlot, 2012, Alexander Valley

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Estate Grown & Bottled, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Alpen Cellars, Chardonnay, 2014, Trinity Lakes

Alpen Cellars, Pinot Noir, 2013, Trinity Lakes

Angove Family Winemakers, Dr. Angove Recipe Red Blend, 2013, South Australia

Angove Family Winemakers, Family Crest Shiraz, 2013, McLaren Vale

Anyela’s Vineyards, Avail, 2013, 2013 Avail, Estate Vineyards, Finger Lakes

Balletto Vineyards, Teresa’s Chardonnay, 2014, Estate Bottled & Produced, Russian River Valley

Balletto Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2013, Estate Grown, Estate Bottled, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley

Balverne, Chardonnay, 2013, Unoaked, Russian River Valley

Bandit, Chardonnay, NV, California

Bandit, Red Blend, NV, California

Barefoot, Chardonnay, NV, California

Barefoot, Merlot, NV, California

Barefoot, Pinot Noir, NV, California

Barefoot, Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, Argentina

Barefoot, Riesling, NV, California

Barefoot, Sauvignon Blanc, NV, California

Barefoot, Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot, Red Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot, Pink Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot, Rosa Red Blend, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Tropical Fusion, NV, California (State Appellation)

Barefoot Bubbly, Prosecco, NV, Italy

Barefoot Bubbly, Moscato Spumante, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Brut Cuvee, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Peach Fusion, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Citrus Fusion, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Pink Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot Refresh, Crisp White, NV, California

Barefoot Refresh, Summer Red, NV, California

Big Cork Vineyards, Syrah Rosé, 2014, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, 2013, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, Barbera, 2013, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, Merlot, 2013, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Maryland

Black Box Wines, Merlot (2013), 2013, California

Black Box Wines, Malbec (2014*), 2014, Argentina, Mendoza

Black Willow Winery, Classic Diamond, 2014, Estate Bottled & Produced, New York State

Bodegas Marilena, 2011, Malaguena, Valle de Guadalupe

Boeger Winery, Barbera, 2012, Estate, El Dorado

Borrellie, Zinfandel, 2013, Sonoma County

Cabpothesis, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Lodi

Calista, Pinot Noir “The Coast Range”, 2012, The Coast Range, California (State Appellation)

Carol Shelton, Pinot Noir, 2013, Larson Vineyard, Carneros (Sonoma)

Carol Shelton, Petite Sirah, 2012, Florence Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley

Carol Shelton, Zinfandel, 2013, Piazza Vineyard, Lodi

Cartlidge & Browne, Merlot, 2013, North Coast

Cedar Creek Winery, LaBelle Vie, 2014, American

Cedar Creek Winery, Gewurztraminer, 2014, American

Cell Block, Shackled Red, 2013, Sonoma County

Chacewater, Zinfandel, 2013, California, Sierra Foothills

Chacewater, Gwin, 2012, California, Lake County

Chacewater, Nell, 2012, Red Hills

Chalkboard, Red Blend, 2013, California

Charles & Charles, Rose, 2014, Washington, Columbia Valley

Cholame Vineyard, Rose, NV, La Presa Vineyard, Barrel Aged, Central Coast

Chronic Cellars, Spritz & Giggles, NV, California

Chronic Cellars, Dead Nuts, 2013, Paso Robles

Chronic Cellars, Sofa King Bueno, 2013, Paso Robles

Chronic Cellars, Purple Paradise, 2013, Paso Robles

Clos Pegase Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Mitsuko’s Vineyard, Napa Valley

Coastal Oak, Chardonnay, 2012, California

Coastal Oak, Pinot Noir, 2012, California

Collavini, Pinot Grigio, 2013, Villa Caniungo, Friuli DOC

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Lux Pinot Noir, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Riesling, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Cabernet Zinfandel, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Malbec, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Chardonnay, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Viognier, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Pinot Noir, NV, American

Cosentino Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, The Cab, Lodi

Cosentino Winery, The Dark, 2013, Lodi

Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Merlot, 2012, Cougar Hills Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Walla Walla Valley

Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Anniversary Cuvee, 2011, Cougar Hills Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Walla Walla Valley

Coyote Moon Vineyards, River Time, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Island Mama, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Twisted Sister, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, River Run, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Frontenac Blanc, 2012, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, La Crescent, 2013, New York

Criterion, Rioja, 2009, Rioja DOCa

Criterion, Malbec, 2012, Mendoza, Uco Valley

Cult X, Pinot Noir, 2013, California, Russian River Valley

Cult X, Meritage, 2012, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Cycles Gladiator, Merlot, 2013, California, Central Coast

Cycles Gladiator, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California, Central Coast

D & L Carinalli Vineyards, Chardonnay, 2013, D & L Carinalli Vineyards, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Russian River Valley

Darkhorse, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Darkhorse, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Darkhorse, Merlot, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Davis Bynum Winery, Jane’s Vineyard, Single Vineyard Pinot Noir, 2013, Jane’s Vineyard, Single Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Dominant Seven, Chardonnay, 2012, California

Dominant Seven, Red Blend, 2012, California

Don Ernestos, CLARNET Red Table Wine, 2014, California, Lodi

Donovan-Parke, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Donovan-Parke, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Donovan-Parke, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Duck Commander, Wood Duck Chardonnay, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Duck Commander, Pintail Moscato, 2013, California

Duck Commander, Miss Priss Pink Moscato, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Duck Commander, Triple Threat Red Blend, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Dusk To Dawn, Chardonnay, 2013, California, Russian River Valley

Easley Winery, Sweet Barrel White, NV, Indiana

Eastpoint, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Eberle, Zinfandel, 2013, Steinbeck, Wine-Bush & Cocavin, Paso Robles

Eberle, 2012, Paso Robles

Eberle, Barbera, 2012, Paso Robles

Ektimo Vineyards, Zinfandel, 2013, Dry Creek Valley

Ektimo Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2013, Russian River Valley

Elder Rock, Chardonnay, 2013, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Monterey

Elmaro, Vidal, 2013, America (Country Appellation)

Fancy Pants, Chardonnay, 2012, California

Fancy Pants, Red, 2013, California

Fancy Pants, Processo, NV, Prosecco DOC

Fifty Shades of Grey, White Silk, 2013, California

Fifty Shades of Grey, Red Satin, 2012, California

Flint & Steel, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, California, Napa Valley

Four Vines, Zinfandel “Maverick”, 2012, Amador County, Sierra Foothills

Four Vines, “Skeptic” Petite Sirah, 2013, Paso Robles

Four Vines, “Willing” Chardonnay, 2013, Monterey

Frank Family Vineyards, Chardonnay, 2013, Napa Valley

Frank Family Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2013, Napa Valley

Frank Family Vineyards, Zinfandel, 2012, Napa Valley

Fresno State Winery, Sangiovese, 2011, Duarte Vineyards, California

Fresno State Winery, Merlot, 2012, Duarte Vineyards, San Joaquin County

Fresno State Winery, Petite Sirah, 2009, Duarte Linden Hills Vineyard, Single Vineyard, San Joaquin County

Frogtown Cellars, 404, 2011, Estate, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Georgia

Frogtown Cellars, Convergence, 2011, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, American

Frogtown Cellars, Compulsion, 2012, American

Frogtown Cellars, Propaganda, 2011, Frogtown Cellars Dahlonega, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Georgia, Lumpkin County

Fulkerson Wine Cellars, Juicy Sweet Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Galen Glen, Riesling, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Pennsylvania

Galleano winery, Sherry, NV, Mary Margaret Sherry, Cucamonga Valley

Girl and Dragon, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California, North Coast

Gloria Ferrer, Sonoma Brut, NV, Sonoma County

Gloria Ferrer, Carneros Cuvée, 2004, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Noirs, NV, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, VA de VI, NV, Sonoma County

Gloria Ferrer, Chardonnay, 2012, Carneros

Goose Watch Winery, Golden Spumanté, NV, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Classic Cream Sherry, NV, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Snow Goose, NV, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Finalé White Port, 2013, Finger Lakes

Goyette, Pinot Noir, 2012, Sonoma Coast

Grape Creek Vineyards, Merlot, 2013, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Bellissimo – Super Tuscan Styled, 2012, Texas

Grape Creek Vineyards, Rendezvous, 2013, Texas

Grape Creek Vineyards, Cabernet Blanc, 2014, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Grand Rouge, 2014, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Petite Sirah, 2013, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Cuvee Blanc, 2014, Texas

Grape Creek Vineyards, Riesling, 2014, American

Graton Cellars, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Greater Than One >1, 2 Red Blend, 2013, California

Greater Than One >1, 3 White Blend, 2013, California

Hagafen, Merlot, 2013, Estate Bottled, Napa Valley

Halcyon, Petit Verdot, 2012, Vintner’s Select, Lodi (AVA)

Handsome Devil, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Handsome Devil, Red Blend, 2013, California

Harmony Cellars, Red Bordeaux, 2011, Diamond Reserve Aria, Meritage, Paso Robles

Harmony Cellars, Zinfandel, 2013, Grandpa Barlogio, Paso Robles

Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Petite Sirah, 2011, Red Hills AVA, Demeter Certified Biodynamic® Grapes, California, Lake County

Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2009, Lake County, Red Hills

Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Latigo- Fortified Dessert Wine, 2010, Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Biodynamic Grapes, Red Hills Lake County

Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Red Hills AVA, Demeter Certified Biodynamic® Grapes, California, Lake County

Hawley, Pinot Noir, 2013, Estines Vineyard, Certified Organically Grown Grapes, Russian River Valley

Hawley, Zinfandel, 2013, Ponzo Vineyard, California, Russian River Valley

Hawley, Petite Sirah, 2013, Dry Creek Valley

Heliodoro, Pinot Noir, 2013, Dos Sobrinos, California, Russian River Valley

Hyacinth, Pinot Noir, 2012, Santa Lucia Highlands

Hyatt Vineyards, Merlot, 2012, Hyatt Vineyards, Rattlesnake Hills

Hyatt Vineyards, Roadside Market Red, 2012, Hyatt Vineyards, Rattlesnake Hills

Hyatt Vineyards, Syrah, 2012, Hyatt Vineyards, Rattlesnake Hills

It”So, Merlot, NV, California

Lohr Estates, Bay Mist White Riesling, 2014, Monterey County
Lohr Estates, Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles
Lohr Vineyard Series, CAROL’S VINEYARD Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, St. Helena ~ Napa Valley (AVA)

Jamieson Ranch Vineyards, “Silver Spur” Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Limited, Napa Valley

Jewelry Box, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Central Coast

Jewelry Box, Chardonnay, 2012, Central Coast

Joel Gott, Cabernet Sauvignon #815, 2013, California

Joel Gott, Pinot Noir, 2013, California, Sonoma County

Joseph Cellars Winery, Chardonnay, 2012, Thomas LaTour Vineyard Mt Veeter Hyde Clone 110R Root Stock, Limited Edition, California, Napa Valley, Mount Veeder

Joseph Cellars Winery, Cellar Select Blend Cabernet, 2011, Napa Valley, Limited Production, California, Napa Valley

Judd’s Hill, Red Blend, 2011, Napa

L.A. Cetto, L. A. CETTO PETITE SIRAH PRIVATE RESERVE., 2010, VALLE DE GUADALUPE, Reserva, Baja California, Valle de Guadalupe

L.A. Cetto, L. A. CETTO CHENÍN BLANC, 2014, valle de guadalupe, Estate Bottled, Baja California, Valle de Guadalupe

La Rusticana d ‘Orsa, La Rusticana d’Orsa Cinque, 2012, Santa Cruz Mountains, Santa Cruz Mountains/Santa Clara Valley

Lafond Winery, Pinot Noir, 2011, Arita Hills Vineyard, Santa Rita Hills

Lafond Winery, Pinot Noir, 2013, SRH, Santa Rita Hills

Lafond Winery, Pinot Noir, 2011, Santa Rita Hills

Le Vigne Winery, Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Le Vigne Winery, Chardonnay, 2014, Paso Robles

Le Vigne Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Paso Robles

Leopard Frog, Titillation MCC Pinotage Prestige Cuvee, 2011, Limited Release, Stellenbosch

Lions Peak, Lionesse, 2012, Paso Robles

Lions Peak, Proprietor’s Reserve, 2012, Paso Robles

Lions Peak, Vis a Vis, 2012, Paso Robles

Long Valley Ranch, Pinot Noir, 2013, Monterey

Lucas & Lewellen, Rose of Pinot Noir, 2014, Estate Vineyards, California, Santa Barbara County

Lucas & Lewellen, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Valley View Vineyard, Estate Vineyards, California, Santa Barbara County

Magistrate, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

Main & Geary, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Main & Geary, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Main & Geary, Pinot Noir, 2013, Sonoma Coast

Marc Cellars, Cabernet, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marlo, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Gewurztraminer, 2013, Lake Erie

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Pinot Grigio, 2013, Finger Lakes

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Riesling, 2013, Faulkenhauser Block, Lake Erie

Menage a Trois, Merlot, 2013, California

Menage a Trois, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Menage a Trois, Moscato, 2013, California

Menage a Trois, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Middle Sister, Drama Queen, Pinot Grigio, NV, California

Middle Sister, Mischief Maker, Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, California

Middle Sister, Sweet and Sassy, Moscato, NV, California

Middle Sister, Goodie Two Shoes, Pinot Noir, NV, California (State Appellation)

Milbrandt Vineyards, The Estates Merlot, 2011, Washington, Wahluke Slope

Milbrandt Vineyards, The Estates Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Washington, Wahluke Slope

Monogamy, Truly Madly Deeply, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, North Coast

Montevina Winery, Independence Point Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Montevina Winery, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Mullan Road, Columbia Valley Red Wine, 2012, Columbia Valley

Narmada Winery, Reflection, 2011, Virginia

Newmans Own, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Newmans Own, Common Good Red Blend, 2013, California

Nitty Gritty, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

Noceto, Noceto Sangiovese, 2012, Estate Bottled & Produced, Amador County

Oak Mountain Winery, Chardonnay, 2014, Temecula Valley

Oak Mountain Winery, Fume Blanc, 2014, Temecula Valley

Obsidian Ridge, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Single Vineyard, Red Hills Lake County

Obsidian Ridge, “Half Mile” Proprietary Red Blend, 2011, Single Vineyard, Red Hills Lake County

Ogio, Prosecco, NV, Prosecco DOC

Owl Ridge, Syrah, 2012, Russian River

Owl Ridge, Sauvginon Blanc, 2014, Dry Creek Valley

Parkers Estate, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Parkers Estate, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Sonoma County

Pearmund Cellars, Petit Verdot, 2013, Toll Gate Vineyard, Barrel Aged, Virginia, Fauquier County

Pearmund Cellars, Petit Manseng, 2014, South River Vineyard, Virginia

Pearmund Cellars, Cabernet Franc, 2013, Toll Gate Vineyard, Virginia, Fauquier County

Pedernales Cellars, Pedernales Cellars Texas GSM, 2013, Texas

Pedernales Cellars, Pedernales Cellars Texas Viognier, 2014, Texas

Pedroncelli, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, East Side Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley

Pedroncelli, Chardonnay, 2014, F. Johnson Vineyard, Single Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley

Penman Springs Vineyard, Merlot, 2011, Paso Robles

Pico & Vine, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Pico & Vine, Pinot Noir, 2013, California, Russian River Valley

Piledriver, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

Piledriver, Red Blend, 2013, Paso Robles

Poseidon Vineyard, Estate Chardonnay, 2013, Single Vineyard, Carneros

Poseidon Vineyard, Estate Pinot Noir, 2013, Single Vineyard, Carneros

Postcards, Merlot, 2012, North Coast

Promisqous, Red, NV, California

Purple Cowboy, Trail Boss Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California, Paso Robles

Rampage, “Lodi” Zinfandel, 2012, Lodi

Rampage, Red Wine Blend, 2012, California

Randall Monroe, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Randall Monroe, Zinfandel, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Ray’s Creek, Chardonnay, 2013, Central Coast

Rays Station Winery, Merlot, 2013, Mendocino County

Red Soles Winery, Monkeyshine – Aged Port Style, NV, Paso Robles, Willow Creek District

Reggae Wines, White, NV, Indiana

Rex Goliath, Chardonnay*, NV, American

Rideau Vineyard, Estate Syrah, 2013, Rideau Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, California, Santa Ynez Valley

Rideau Vineyard, Siempre, 2013, Happy Canyon Vineyard, Estate Produced and Bottled, California, Santa Ynez Valley

Ringleader, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Ringleader, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Ringleader, Red Wine, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Robert Hall, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Paso Robles (AVA)

Robert Hall, Cuvee de Robles, 2014, California, Paso Robles

Robert Hall, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Paso Robles (AVA)

Rock Falls Vineyards, Chardonnay, 2014, California

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Knotty Vines, Estate Zinfandel, 2012, Knotty Vines, Estate Vineyards, Estate Vineyards, Sonoma County, Northern Sonoma

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Sonoma County Merlot, 2012, Sonoma County

Ron Rubin, Pinot Noir, 2013, Family Owned, Russian River

Roza Ridge, Syrah, 2010, Roza Ridge, Rattlesnake Hills

Roza Ridge, Malbec, 2011, Roza Ridge, Rattlesnake Hills

Roza Ridge, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Roza Ridge, Rattlesnake Hills

Sage Hill, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Sage Hill, Malibu Coast

Santa Barbara Winery, Pinot Noir, 2013, Santa Rita Hills

Santa Barbara Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Santa Ynez Valley

Santa Barbara Winery, Gewurztraminer, 2014, Santa Barbara County

Santa Barbara Winery, Syrah, 2012, Santa Ynez Valley

Save Me San Francisco, Pinot Noir, 2013, Soul Sister Pinot Noir, California

Sea Monster, Chardonnay, 2013, Los Alamos Vineayrd, Single Vineyard, Santa Barbara County

Sea Monster, Octopussy, 2014, California, Central Coast

SeaGlass, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Santa Barbara County

Shadowland, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Washington

Shiloh Road, Pinot Noir, 2013, Sonoma County

Sol Rio, White Sangria, NV, California

St. James Winery, Norton, 2013, Estate, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, Cynthiana Norton, 2013, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, 2013, Pioneer Red, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, 2013, Pioneer White, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, NV, Friendship School White, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, Riesling, NV, American

St. James Winery, Raspberry, NV, American

Stateland, Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Stateland, Chardonnay, 2012, Reserve, Santa Maria Valley

Stateland, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Paso Robles

Stemilt Creek, Sweet Adelaide, NV, Signature Blend, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Stemilt Creek, Nettie Rose’, NV, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Stephen Vincent, Chardonnay, 2012, California, Sonoma County

Stephen Vincent, Crimson, 2012, California, Monterey County

Storyteller, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Sonoma County

Storyteller, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Sonoma County

Storyteller, Red Blend, 2013, Sonoma County

Stray, Riesling, 2013, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, White Zinfandel, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Merlot, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Gewurztraminer, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Zinfandel, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Riesling, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Pinot Grigio, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Pinot Noir, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Red Blend, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Red Moscato, NV, California

Swedish Hill Winery, Riesling Cuvée, NV, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Chardonnay, Riesling, 2014, Blue Waters, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Dry Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Cynthia Marie Port, NV, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Maréchal Foch, 2014, Finger Lakes

Terra dOro, Chenin Blanc/Viognier, 2014, California, Clarksburg

The Show, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Pinot Noir Rosé, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Traminette, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Pinot Gris, 2014, Finger Lakes

Three Thieves, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Three Thieves, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Three Thieves, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Trecini, ZINFANDEL, 2013, BRANNAN, Single Vineyard, Rockpile

Trinity Oaks, Caberent Sauvignon, 2013, California

Trinity Oaks, Chardonnay, 2014, California

Trinity Oaks, Merlot, 2013, California

Trinity Oaks, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Trinity River Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Grown, Produced and Bottled, Willow Creek (Humboldt)

Trinity River Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Willow Creek (Humboldt)

Trinity River Vineyards, Sangiovese, 2013, Unfined & Unfiltered, Willow Creek (Humboldt)

Trinity River Vineyards, Merlot, 2013, Unfined & Unfiltered, Willow Creek (Humboldt)

Trueblood, Chardonnay, 2011, Poseidon Vineyards, Carneros

Trueblood, Chardonnay, 2012, Poseidon Vineyards, Carneros

Twirl, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Twirl, Red Blend, 2012, California

Van Roekel Estate, Tempranillo, 2012, Temecula Valley

Van Roekel Estate, Viognier, 2014, Estate Produced and Bottled, Temecula Valley

Ventana Vineyards, Rubystone, 2014, Monterey County, Estate Grown & Bottled, Arroyo Seco (AVA)

Vina Sympatica Sparkling Wines, Sparkling Red, NV, Lodi

Wagner Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, Finger Lakes

Wakefield/Taylors, Wakefield/Taylors Cabernet Sauvignon, 2014, Australia, Clare Valley

Windsor Oaks Vineyards & Winery, Super Tuscan, 2013, Chalk Hill

Windsor Oaks Vineyards & Winery, Cabernet Franc, 2012, Reserve, Chalk Hill

Windsor Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Private Reserve, Sonoma County

Windsor Vineyards, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Private Reserve, Sonoma County

Wine Sisterhood, Magical Moscato, NV, California

Wollersheim Winery, White Riesling, 2014, American

Wollersheim Winery, Prairie Blush, 2014, Wisconsin (State Appellation)

ZD, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

ZD, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Zynthesis Cellars, Zinfandel, 2013, Lodi

Bronze Medal Winners

Carol Shelton, Rosé, 2014, Wild Thing Rosé, Mendocino County

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, White Lotus, 2012, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Rhode Island

Cartlidge & Browne, Pinot Noir, 2013, North Coast

Chalkboard, Malbec, 2014, Argentina

Clos Pegase Winery, Chardonnay, 2013, Mitsuko’s Vineyard, Carneros

Coastal Oak, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Cobblestone Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2010, New Zealand, Martinborough

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Gewurztraminer, NV, American

Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Cabernet Franc, 2011, Cougar Hills Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Walla Walla Valley

Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Caberent Sauvignon, 2011, Cougar Hills Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Walla Walla Valley

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Chardonnay, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Moscato, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Casa Papa Red, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Frontenac, 2012, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2011, New York

Cryptic, Cryptic, 2012, California (State Appellation)

D & L Carinalli Vineyards, Pinot Grigio, 2013, D & L Carinalli Vineyards, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Russian River Valley

Daniel Gehrs, Chardonnay, 2014, Central Coast

Darkhorse, Red Blend, NV, No Appellation

De Bortoli DB Family Selection, Shiraz, 2014, Heathcote

Deep Purple, Zinfandel, 2012, California, Lodi

Don Ernestos, Beret, 2014, Napa Valley, California, Napa Valley

Don Ernestos, COLLAGE White wine blend, 2014, California, Lodi

Dona Paula, Sauvignon Blanc Los Cardos, 2014, Tupungato

Draxton, Malbec, 2013, Dry Creek Valley

Dusk To Dawn, Pinot Noir, 2013, California, Russian River Valley

Eberle, Sangiovese, 2013, Wine-Bush & Hidden Valley Vineyard, Paso Robles

Eberle, Chardonnay, 2014, Eberle Estate, Paso Robles

Eberle, Viognier, 2014, Mill Road Vineyard, Paso Robles

Eberle, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Eberle Estate, Paso Robles

Edenbrook, Pinot Grigio, 2013, California

Ektimo Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Dry Creek Valley

Elder Rock, Petite Sirah, 2013, Monterey

Elder Rock, Red Blend, 2013, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Monterey

Elmaro, Marquette Rose, 2014, Robyn, Estate, Upper Mississippi River Valley

Fancy Pants, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Fancy Pants, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California

Fancy Pants, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Folie à Deux, Merlot Alexander Valley, 2012, Alexander Valley

Fre, Chardonnay, NV, California

Fre, Moscato, NV, California

Fresno State Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Duarte Vineyards, California

Fresno State Winery, Tempranillo, 2011, Duarte Vineyards, California

Frogtown Cellars, Disclosure Steel Chardonnay, 2012, American

Frogtown Cellars, Petit Manseng, 2013, Frogtown Cellars Estate, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Georgia, Lumpkin County

Fulkerson Wine Cellars, Gruner Veltliner, 2014, William Vigne, Seneca Lake

Galleano winery, Grenache Rosé, NV, August Grenache, Cucamonga Valley

Galleano winery, Zinfandel, NV, Pioneer’s Legendary Zinfandel, Cucamonga Valley

Gallo Family Vineyards, Sweet Red, NV, California

Gallo Family Vineyards, Pink Moscato, NV, California (State Appellation)

Gallo Family Vineyards, Red Moscato, NV, California (State Appellation)

Gallo Family Vineyards, White Zinfandel, NV, California

Gloria Ferrer, Pinot Noir, 2012, Estate Grown, Carneros

Goyette, Chardonnay, 2012, Sonoma Coast

Grape Creek Vineyards, Serendipity, 2012, American

Graton Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Gray Ghost, Vidal Blanc, 2014, Virginia

Greater Than One >1, 3 Red Blend, 2013, California

Hagafen, Chardonnay, 2014, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

Hagafen, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Estate Grown & Bottled, California, Napa Valley

Havens, Syrah Blend, 2012, Black & Blue, Napa Valley

Lohr Estates, South Ridge Syrah, 2013, Paso Robles (AVA)
Lohr Estates, Riverstone Chardonnay, 2014, Arroyo Seco
Lohr Vineyard Series, Fog’s Reach Pinot Noir, 2012, Arroyo Seco

Judd’s Hill, Viognier, 2014, Napa

Kumbaya Wines, Red Wine, 2013, California (State Appellation)

L.A. Cetto, L. A. CETTO PETITE SIRAH, 2013, Estate Bottled & Produced, Baja California, Guadalupe Valley

Lafond Winery, Chardonnay, 2013, Musque Clone, Santa Rita Hills

Lafond Winery, Pinot Noir, 2012, Martin Ray Clone, Santa Rita Hills

Lawer Estates, Rose, 2014, Betsy’s Vineyard, California, Sonoma County, Knights Valley

Lawer Estates, Viognier, 2013, Betsy’s Vineyard, Sonoma County, Knights Valley

Le Vigne Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

Leopard Frog, Southern Sirens, 2013, Limited Release, South Africa, Stellenbosch

Light Horse, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Long Valley Ranch, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Monterey

Lopez Island Vineyards and Winery, Fireside Port, 2010, Columbia Valley AVA

Lucas & Lewellen, Pinot Noir GC H9, 2013, GOODCHILD HIGH 9 VINEYARD, Estate Vineyards, California, Santa Barbara County

Lucky Star, Petite Sirah, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Magistrate, Chardonnay, 2012, Napa Valley

Main & Geary, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Main & Geary, “Rose” Pinot Noir, 2014, California

Marc Cellars, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marc Cellars, Pinot Grigio, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marlo, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Marlo, Merlot, 2012, California

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Riesling, 2013, Nutt Road, Finger Lakes

Menage a Trois, Midnight Dark Red Blend, 2013, California

Menage a Trois, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California

Metz Road, Pinot Noir, 2012, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Monterey

Metz Road, Chardonnay, 2012, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Monterey

MillsReef, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Hawkes Bay

Montevina Winery, Amita Hills Merlot, 2013, California

Myles & Moore, Chardonnay, 2013, Monterey

Napa Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Narmada Winery, Tannat, 2010, Virginia

Newmans Own, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Nitty Gritty, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Napa Valley

Noceto, Barbera, 2012, Linsteadt Vineyard, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Oak Mountain Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Temecula Valley

Ogio, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Puglia IGT

Our Daily Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Page Mill Winery, Angela’s Cuvee, 2014, Alameda County – Livermore Valley

Page Mill Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, California, Livermore Valley

Pamela’s, Un-Oaked Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County, Unoaked, California, Sonoma County

Parkers Estate, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Pedroncelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Three Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley

Pico & Vine, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Postcards, Red Blend, 2012, Lodi

Postcards, Chardonnay, 2012, North Coast

Prix, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Moskowite Ranch Block 53, Estate Bottled, California, Napa Valley

Prix, Pinot Noir, 2013, Montington, Proprietor Grown, Napa Valley, Coombsville

Purple Cowboy, Tenacious Red, 2013, Paso Robles

Randall Monroe, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Rays Station Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Mendocino County

Reata, Chardonnay, 2012, California, Sonoma, Carneros

Reata, Three County Pinot Noir, 2013, San Benito, California, Monterey

Rex Goliath, Pinot Grigio*, NV, America

Rex Goliath, Sangria*, NV, American

Rex Goliath, Malbec*, NV, Argentina

Rideau Vineyard, “Daliet” Reserve Estate Syrah, 2013, Rideau Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, California, Santa Ynez Valley

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Charlotte’s Home, Estate Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Estate Vineyards, Northern Sonoma

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Russian River Valley, Estate Pinot Noir, 2013, Estate Vineyards, California

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Alexander Valley, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Alexander Valley, Estate Vineyards, Estate Vineyards, Alexander Valley

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Sonoma County

Ron Rubin, Pinot Noir, 2012, Green Valley of Russian River Valley

Sage Hill, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Sage Hill, Malibu Coast

Save Me San Francisco, Chardonnay, 2013, Calling All Angels, California

Save Me San Francisco, Red, 2013, Drops of Jupiter, California

Shiloh Road, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Shiloh Road, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Sonoma County

South Shore Wine Company, Gruner Veltliner, 2013, Rassie Farms, Lake Erie

St. James Winery, Rougeon, NV, Friendship School Red, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, Peach, NV, American

St. James Winery, Cherry, NV, American

Stateland, Pinot Noir, 2013, Santa Barbara County

Stateland, Pinot Noir, 2012, Reserve, Santa Maria Valley

Stemilt Creek, Boss Lady, 2011, Estate Grown and Produced, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Stephen Vincent, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California, Lake County

Stephen Vincent, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California, North Coast

Stonehedge, Meritage, 2014, Napa Valley

Storyteller, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Chardonnay, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, White Merlot, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Chenin Blanc, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Pink Moscato Bubbly, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Bubbly Brut, NV, California

Swedish Hill Winery, Optimus, 2012, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Chardonnay, NV, Blue Waters, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Blanc de Blanc, NV, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Vidal Blanc, 2014, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Cabernet Franc, 2012, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Naturel, NV, Finger Lakes

Swizzle, Pomegranate Sangria, NV, California

Swizzle, Blackberry Sangria, NV, California

Terra dOro, Barbera, 2013, Amador County

Terra dOro, Zinfandel Port, NV, Amador County

The Specialyst, Red Blend, 2013, California

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Cayuga Lake

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Malbec, 2013, Cayuga Lake

Trecini, PINOT NOIR, 2013, VICINI VINEYARD, Single Vineyard, California, Russian River Valley

Trecini, SAUVIGNON BLANC, 2014, California, Russian River Valley

Trinity Oaks, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Trueblood, Pinot Noir, 2012, Poseidon Vineyards, Carneros

Twirl, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Van Roekel Estate, Grenache, 2011, Estate Grown & Bottled, Temecula Valley

Van Roekel Estate, Zinfandel, 2012, Maurice Carrie Vineyard, Estate Grown & Bottled, Temecula Valley

Viansa Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Sonoma Valley

Viansa Winery, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma Valley

Vino Noceto, Rosso, NV, Amador County, Sierra Foothills

Vintners Path, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California

Wagner Vineyards, Riesling, 2012, Finger Lakes

Wakefield/Taylors, Wakefield/Taylors Shiraz, 2014, Australia, Clare Valley

Whiplash, Zinfandel, 2013, California, Lodi

Whispering Oaks Winery, Blueberry Dry, 2015, Florida

Windsor Oaks Vineyards & Winery, Pinot Noir, 2013, Russian River Valley

Wine Sisterhood, Courageous Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, California (State Appellation)

ZD, Chardonnay, 2013, Carneros

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 15k 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. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Perlis Picks: Hoyt Family Vineyards

September 1, 2018 by Michael Perlis Leave a Comment

Have you heard of tiny houses? There’ve been a few television shows about them. My wife Karen occasionally watches them and I’ll sometimes lift my head up from wine-related Facebook conversations to see what’s up.

Basically, people downsize to a minimum level of possessions and space requirements in order to live in very small residences, simplifying their lives in the process. Now what that minimum level is varies from family to family depending on their own situation. The whole idea has never really appealed to me; for one thing, what to do with the wine?

But, to stay in a tiny house in a vineyard on the west side of Paso Robles? Heck yes, that is very appealing.

The first episode of DIY Network’s “Cabin Brothers” featured the development and construction of two tiny homes on the vineyard property of Hoyt Family Vineyards. The “brothers” are twins John and Ron Daniels [formerly of the show “Redwood Kings”] and their company Daniels Wood Land is conveniently based in Tin City just south of downtown Paso Robles.

The cabins/homes have all the amenities – two bedrooms [one is a master with a queen size bed and the other is smaller with bunk beds], a shower and full kitchen. Our vineyard view cabin gave us a full frontal view of the beautiful vineyard – just be careful not to give a full frontal view to the vineyard workers; this is a working winery, after all. In case you’re wondering, you also have satellite TV and Wi-Fi.

But all this would mean nothing to me if the wines didn’t measure up.

For a little bit about how that started, we have to begin in…Malibu.

Carol and Stephen Hoyt moved to Malibu and planted their Chardonnay vineyard on their property in 2001. Carol, a self-taught winemaker, made her first wine with purchased Cabernet fruit while waiting for the first Chardonnay grapes to be ready to harvest in 2004. Since that time, Hoyt Family Vineyards became known for producing delicious Chardonnay from Malibu.

But we all know that there is more to wine than Chardonnay, yummy as it is, and in 2011 the Hoyts purchased 86 acres on the west side of Paso Robles in the very highly regarded Willow Creek District, with neighbors like Booker, Tablas Creek and most recently Clos Solene [in other words, a pretty darn good neighborhood], to expand the estate offerings of Hoyt Family Vineyards. After much work [some still ongoing] on the vineyards, which now consist of two adjacent properties totaling 140 acres with 30 acres planted, they now also produce Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier, Grenache and Petit Verdot.

Tastings are available by appointment at the vineyard property, which is especially convenient if you are staying there. But we wanted to check out the new tasting room in downtown Paso Robles. Located just north of the busy park square, the Hoyt Family Vineyards tasting room is a wonderful addition to the downtown tasting room scene. It is now literally possible to spend a day (or more) tasting wine strolling around without ever needing to drive into the surrounding countryside, should you so choose.

We went through the whole lineup of wines, which I am pleased share with you here, including the winery’s notes:

White

Hoyt2Hoyt Sparkling Wine: Our newest addition, a sophisticated Methode Champignon sourced from Sonoma County. Light, crisp and refreshing. Perfect for a celebration or a Sunday morning. Dry, with notes of pear and apple, delicately tickles your fancy.

2015 Chardonnay: Our newest release! We have taken our Malibu estate grown Chardonnay through 100% malolactic and aged it in new and used French Oak. This is the wine that put us on the map! Crisp, with hints of oak and butter this Chardonnay’s acid is well balanced on your palate and could look forward to it aging beautifully, if you can wait, but we don’t think you will want to! It is our classic “Drink it all day Chardonnay”! Case Production 325

Muscat: For those of you who expect this wine to be overly sweet, we have a surprise for you! Made with no residual sugar, this Muscat presents itself as beautifully dry with a fragrant nose of citrus, clean and crisp. This is a onetime wine from our estate with a small production, get it before it’s gone! Case Production 30

Rosé

2017 Pinot Noir Rose: Sophisticated and elegant, best describes our estate Grown Pinot Noir Rose. This Rose, already turning heads and making a splash, claimed 99 points, double gold and best of class from the California State Fair. Notes of strawberry, and citrus make this perfect for the summer or for that matter anytime.

Red

“Dylema” Our fun red blend. Originally created for the Malibu Chili cook off, this has become a house favorite. A Cab based blend with a little bit of everything else thrown in. Smooth and easy on the palate, we were hard pressed as what to call it, so we named it after our kids, Dylan and Emma. Enjoy our “Dylema”. GOLD Medal Winner

Grenache: Our first Grenache! And we are delighted with its lovely gardenia and soft smokey pepper and burnt Cherry undertones. Case Production 80

2012 Tempranillo: Fruit forward, well balanced. The velvet feel rolls in your mouth, with magical notes of black currant, blackberries, blueberry, vanilla and cooking spices. Very limited production of this hand picked estate fruit. Case Production 55

2013 Petite Sirah: Our 2013 Petite Sirah is totally amazing. Big bold fruit, beautiful legs, rounded mouth feel, we think it’s like “sex in a bottle”. Very limited production, and we feel it will be winning Gold Medals- we expect nothing less!

2012 Cabernet Sauvignon: Already winning Best of Class by the San Francisco Wine Chronicle, this is our favorite Cab yet. It’s unbelievable round mouth feel, is chewy, fruit forward, leggy and lovely. A sophisticated Cab, very limited production, this wine won’t last! Case Production 96

These are very well made wines. The awards they are getting, such as the one from the Chronicle, are about as legit as they get. The Rose really knocked us out and the Petite Sirah is aptly described as amazing. As you can see, production is tiny on many of these so blink and they might be gone. But whatever they are pouring next will be sure to please.

Thank you to Nancy Hoffman of Hoyt Family Vineyards for hosting us at the property and at the tasting room, as well as giving us a whirlwind vineyard tour and pointing out the best places to enjoy a glass of wine at sunset. She is a joy to work with – don’t believe just me; check out the reviews on Airbnb. https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/23712572

So, am I ready to give it all up and move into a tiny house? Probably not. But I would definitely stay again in a tiny cabin in a beautiful vineyard, especially this vineyard and this winery: Hoyt Family Vineyards. You should too.

Hoyt Family Vineyards

Tasting room:

1322 Park Street, Paso Robles, Ca. 93446

Vineyard:

2015 Township Rd, Paso Robles, Ca. 93446

Cabins:

2110 Township Rd, Paso Robles, Ca. 93446

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.

Tasting Through Turtle Rock at Napa Valley Grille

August 31, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

It isn’t a secret that I love Rhônes, whites and reds alike, so reading the wine list for a recent tasting with Turtle Rock Vineyards already whet my palate. Paired with another multi-course lunch created by Chef Kenny Spost of the Napa Valley Grille in Westwood for the #LAWineWriters group I’m in, the table was proverbially set. But first, we learn about and taste the wines.

From Turtle Rock owner, Claudia Burns, I quickly discovered that her husband Don Burns came from a caliber of winemakers to respect: He was and continues to be the assistant winemaker for Saxum Vineyards – obtaining many of his wine grapes from the same vineyards – and he works on both wines simultaneously in the Saxum caves. If it’s punch down day for Saxum it’s also punch down day for Turtle Rock.

There is no estate fruit in any of the Turtle Rock wines, however, they “control all of the farming” in the “handful of vineyards” they purchase their grapes from according to Claudia. It takes two years from grape to glass. Claudia herself “does everything else” other than winemaking at Turtle Rock, but she did tease us with the idea that she might like to try her hand at winemaking as well. (See more about the vineyards in the From the Winery section below.)

The Burns’ also co-own the Wine Shine distillery I visited a few years back. Both Turtle Rock and Wine Shine have tasting rooms in Tin City, Paso Robles.

(From our very own Contributing Editor Michael Perlis I learned that Don is Justin Smith’s childhood friend. He wrote about them here: evewine101.com/2012/08/04/michael-perlis-discovers-westberg-cellars/ and here: http://evewine101.com/2014/05/24/paso-robles-trip-part-one-paso-underground/ along with mentions in other articles in Eve’s Wine 101.)

If you are salivating already, check out the two photo grids here.

Tasting (Yep, I loved them all)

2016 Willow White

63% Grenache Blanc, 28% Roussanne, 5% Picpoul, 4% Viognier

On the nose I got lemonade, popcorn kernel, unsalted butter and toasted oak. The taste gave way to flavors of lemon, peach, apricot, kiwi, green apple with a mild acidity allowing for a lingering finish.

2016 Plum Orchard

68% Grenache, 32% Mourvedre

2015 was their first vintage from Plum Orchard, and the sandy soils allow for a “filtration system, a leaner wine…” they then added “stem tannins (to) accentuate the spice.” Aromas of black cherry, black pepper, plum, dark chocolate, forest floor, leaves and sage. On the mouth I got fresh dark fruit, killer spice notes, pepper, very rich.

2015 Willow’s Cuvee

45% Grenache, 34% Syrah, 15% Mourvedre, 5% Carignon

Stewed fruit, plums again, creamy milk chocolate, white pepper and toasted oak on the nose, followed by flavors of ripe berries, spice and cracked black pepper.

2016 G2 Syrah

90% Syrah, 6% Grenache, 4% Mourvedre

A wonderfully balanced nose of both fruit and spice. Also felt a velvety quality, blue to black fruit, tri-color pepper, char, sweet chocolate candy, oak and a whiff of cigar wafting through it all. Tasting the wine, knowing from the nose I would love it, I found that it was filled with bold dark fruit, had a dusty quality, lots of spice and again, with a great balance.

Surprise Wine: 2016 “Maturin” (The name is an ode to a Stephen King horror series that references a turtle). 50% Syrah, 32% Graciano*, 18% Grenache. Wine Club Only. Aromas of blackberry, rich earth, mint and cream. On the mouth I loved the dry, richly layered qualities that also included lots of pepper and spice, dark fruit and tannin that allowed for no end to the finish. Seriously, the fruit and the spice just went on and on. That’s what I call a welcoming wine.

* Graciano was FKA Mourvedre in many Paso Robles vineyards until very recent. It shook things up a bit. This is just one article about it.

NAPA VALLEY GRILLE PAIRING MENU BY EXECUTIVE CHEF KENNY SPOST

For the Willow White: Harvest Salad, roasted butternut squash, green dragon apple, glazed walnuts, baby kale, feta cheese, maple-olive dressing. I couldn’t get enough of this salad. Every bite had so many enticing flavors. The wine was the perfect accompaniment; both had those notes of green apple. One of the other writers commented “good start” and I had to agree.

For the Plum Orchard: Cast iron seared Branzino, toy box summer squash, red plum jam, fennel-arugula salad. Loved the plum in the dish that matched up perfectly with the plum I had found in the nose of the wine.

For the Willow’s Cuvee: Oven roasted Duck Breast, roasted cauliflower, port wine glaze. Again the flavors Chef added – specifically the glaze – was perfect with predominately Grenache driven blend.

For the G2 Syrah: Petit filet, Bing cherry red wine demi glace, truffle mashed potatoes, fat rendered breadcrumbs. Oh boy, saving the biggest wine for the steak was, of course, perfect for my palate.

FROM THE WINERY

2016 Willow White:  Aged in 20% new French oak to give a touch of creaminess. The remainder was aged in 40/40 stainless and neutral French barrels to preserve the minerality and crispness. The nose gives way to fresh stone fruit, lemongrass and flower petals while the palate is of Granny Smith apple and dried kiwi. Cases produced 106. Drink now to 2022. Wine Advocate– 93 points G2 Vineyard, Plum Orchard, Windrock.

2016 Plum Orchard: The Plum Orchard vineyard is in the Templeton Gap District and is made up of sandy soils. It sits near a creek bed which provides minerality, spice, and purity of fruit. We did 50% whole cluster fermentation for added weight and complexity and aged for 22 months in neutral French 400L barrels. It’s a gorgeous wine with a silky texture, bright red fruit and a bit of white pepper and herbaceousness. Cases produced 104. Enjoy now until 2028. Plum Orchard Vineyard.

2015 Willow’s Cuvee: We added just a touch of Carignon for tannin and structure to our usual blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre. We did 20% whole cluster fermentation on the Syrah and co-fermented the Grenache and Mourvedre in concrete. All was aged for 22 months in 50% new French and 50% neutral French barrels. This wine is soft with notes of blackberry jam and violets that are truly fresh and balanced. Cases produced 183. Enjoy now until 2028. Wine Advocate– 94 points James Berry, Kruse Vineyard.

2016 G2 Syrah: This vintage is beautiful and very deep in color. We did 30% whole cluster fermentation and aged for 22 months in new French oak which gives complexity and structure. Black and blue fruit coupled with smoked meats. There are lively herbal notes accented with warm spice. This unfiltered wine has great tannin, intensity, and a long finish. Cases produced 312. Enjoy now until 2032. G2 Vineyard.

WWW.TURTLEROCKVINEYARDS.COM

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. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Carmel Part Two: Walking To and From Wine Tasting, 5th Avenue Deli Lunch in the Park and Tarpy’s Hanging (Vintage Eve Circa 7/2015)

August 28, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

I did the Carmel-by-the-Sea Wine Walk three years ago. At that time I stayed in nearby Monterey. What a difference not driving makes! Free to finish a taste and not pour out everything, I still split my tasting with my husband Eddie, but this time I enjoyed visiting MORE tasting rooms:

We started at the popular Wrath (named after Steinbeck’s Grapes of Wrath according to the tasting room staff) where we noted a nice 2013 Sauvignon Blanc, 2012 Chardonnay and found our favorite of the day: 2012 Syrah, San Saba Vineyard, Monterey.

Then came Scheid Vineyards where we enjoyed 2011 Triple Layer Red of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre.

Manzoni had several deep reds from the Santa Lucia Highlands: a 2012 Syrah, 2012 Zinfandel, 2012 Big Ped Red blend of Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Tannat.

Enjoyed a limited release Tempranillo and a 2011 Zinfandel at Shale Canyon Wines, a winery from the Arroyo Seco AVA. Every wine they have in their current line-up is 100% the varietal on the label.

Blair Estate produced several wines in the cold climate region Monterey is known for: Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir.

Galante Vineyards, from the warmer region of Carmel Valley served up Malbecs, red blends, Cabs and Merlot.

Another I had visited three years ago, Silvestri, did not disappoint. This time we were happy with a 2013 Pinot Blanc, a Rose of Barbera and Pinot Noir grapes and a straight Barbera.

A tasting room that wasn’t there when I last visited (more tasting rooms keep springing up!) is De Tierra Vineyards. The young winemaker had several wine club members/fans to tell me what their favorites were. I had to agree that the 2013 Riesling was delightful: more akin to a dry German-style Riesling as this wine was not cloyingly sweet. The aromatics alone were worth savoring, and the taste was a great refreshing end to our day.

(In looking for lunch at the beach or park in a break from our tasting we checked out 5th Avenue Deli for supplies. Here we found more than enough: custom made-to-order sandwiches, a taco bar, salads and the usual necessities like candy, chips…and wine. We were given directions to a local park where we quietly picnicked, the scene complete when a bridal party served as a backdrop to both their photographer and a gift from the bride to the groom: the sudden appearance of a bagpiper in full regalia.)

Checking Out Tarpy’s Roadhouse

Never been to a 5-acre “roadhouse” restaurant before so I wasn’t even sure what to wear to Tarpy’s Roadhouse for our dinner ten minutes away in Monterey. The menu and photos online looked great though!

When you arrive in the parking lot you will see – and think, wow this was gorgeous – a pond, a non-working well and the entrance all surrounded by lush flowers and shrubs. Two hostesses greeted us and we were seated immediately.

Amy, our friendly, knowledgeable and solicitous waitress checked in with us, again almost immediately, and we were on our way perusing the bar menu and wine list on an iPad. Amy later recited the specials, which physically caused my salivary glands to go into overdrive, and we made our selections: We shared an appetizer of Deviled Eggs made with spicy tuna over a pepperoni/sausage paste (spicy goodness there that we will definitely try and duplicate at home!), I ordered the Angus Top Sirloin that came with garlic mashed potatoes and grilled Chard with bacon (couldn’t finish it but Eddie could!) and Ed had filet mignon wrapped in bacon, green beans and a decadently rich scalloped potatoes made with Gruyere cheese. He thought they were the best potatoes he had ever had. As we had been wine tasting all day we were pretty exhausted…so I just had a glass of Seghesio Zinfandel while Ed had a vodka martini.

When we were done we asked for a tour. Come to find that there are several private dining rooms for groups of 20, 40, or more. Weddings took place on the property as well as business meetings. The name, Tarpy, belongs to one Matt Tarpy, who, in his day, was well-liked until he turned himself in for killing his neighbor in a land dispute. He was publicly hanged on the same land on which the restaurant now stands.

Facebook album link: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10205958130979800.1073741920.1455706632&type=1&l=17edf95d76

About The Carmel Wine Walk By-The-Sea

The Carmel Wine Walk by-the-Sea is a self-paced self-guided stroll to the tasting rooms, which are all within a few blocks of each other on the both sides of Ocean Avenue. They are Blair Estate Artisan Wines, Caraccioli Cellars, De Tierra Vineyards, Figge Cellars, Galante Vineyards, Manzoni Cellars, Scheid Vineyards, Shale Canyon Wines, Vino Napoli and Wrath Wines.…(more)

About 5^th Avenue Deli & Catering Co

5th Ave. Deli continuously innovates to increase customer satisfaction by offering a quick service format that provides a high- quality” range of delicious sandwiches, salads, fresh made soups, with a salad & taco bar. We use fresh ingredients while also enabling customers to…(more)

About Tarpy’s Roadhouse

A Monterey Restaurant. Relax in this 1917 Roadhouse and enjoy creative, Five Star American Country Cuisine. The wood-burning grill provides wonderful flavors for wild game, the freshest seafood and prime steaks. Set on five landscaped acres, the patios and extensive gardens provide a refreshing backdrop for hearty sandwiches, vegetarian entrees and tempting salads. Tarpy’s has seven private and semi-private…(more)

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 (over 15k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and served as a judge for the L.A. International Wine Competition, Long Beach Grand Cru and Global Wine Awards. 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

PERLIS PICKS: THE GARAGISTE FESTIVAL [Part Two]

August 11, 2018 by Michael Perlis Leave a Comment

Last week I gave you an introduction to the latest Garagiste Festival held in Santa Monica. Here now are some comments about the wines Karen and I enjoyed.

Ascension Cellars – winemaker Erick Allen continues to make consistently high quality wines from Paso Robles grapes. Primarily Rhone varietals, my favorites were the 2017 Siren Rose, the 2016 Enchantress Rhone White blend and the 2014 Trinity GSM blend.

Byron Blatty Wines – committed to making wines sourced from Los Angeles County vineyards, owners Mark & Jenny Blatty along with winemakers Steve Lemley & Nate Hasper (more on them below) are making some remarkable wines. The two wines listed in the program were poured recently at the Wine On The Roof event in Santa Clarita, so I didn’t taste those this time. But the other two that Mark Blatty poured were excellent as well –the 2016 Agenda (primarily Syrah with a little Tannat) and the 2016 Pragmatic (Malbec with small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot).

Caliza Winery – Carl Bowker has been making his small production Rhones in Paso Robles for about ten years now and he has certainly got it down. I tasted his wines recently at Hospice du Rhone but I did try his two 2017 bottlings this time, the Pink GSM and the Kissin’ Cousins White Rhone Blend. Both were delicious, as was my revisit of the 2013 Estate Grenache.

Domane Kreger – this winery is based in Lancaster, CA and sources grapes from Santa Barbara County and Paso Robles. I really liked their 2014 Syrah and 2013 Tempranillo.

Dusty Nabor Wines – Dusty not only gets my vote for coolest winemaker name but is making excellent wines in Westlake Village from Central Coast grapes. He was pouring several wines but my favorite was his 2016 Grenache from Paso Robles.

Hoi Polloi Wines – Doug Minnick is not only one of the founders of the Garagiste Festivals but is one of the owners/winemakers of this winery with a tasting room in downtown Newhall. They have the distinction of making Karen’s all-time favorite Rose and the rest of the wines are pretty great too. The 2016 “Blue Velvet” Syrah from the iconic Larner Vineyard was a standout for me.

Leverage Wines – Paso Robles gets a lot of love at Garagiste and here is another one, focusing on Rhones [which always works for me]. Excellent 2017 Grenache Rose and 2015 Trajectory GSM.

Marin’s Vineyard – This Monterey County winery specializes in Syrah and Viognier. They do a pretty nice Malbec too. We’re talking Southern Monterey County, so think Paso as opposed to cool weather styles.

Mastro Scheidt – sourcing grapes from Sonoma and Mendocino counties, owner/winemaker David Scheidt makes delicious Zinfandel, Cabernet Franc as well as a Super Tuscan blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. And his Cabernet Sauvignons are pretty tasty too.

Monochrome Wines – I’m just going to say it: It takes balls to make only white wine in red wine country. Since I was focusing primarily on reds I almost skipped it. Fortunately, Karen insisted I try the wines. As usual…um, always…she was right. Especially loved the 2016 blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Marsanne as well as the 2016 blend of Marsanne and Chardonnay. They are pouring in Paso’s Tin City now and I highly recommend you check them out. We intend to.

Pulchella Winery – the men, the myths, the legends. Winemakers Steve Lemley and Nate Hasper put the Santa Clarita Valley wine scene on the map. Not ones to rest on their laurels, they just keep getting better, especially for me the 2015 Tannat.

Record Family Wines – with wines now being made by Jeff Strekas [of Onx] this Paso Robles winery is poised to break out big. The 2017 Grenache Rose was my favorite, but the others showed the capabilities of the family’s vineyard as well.

Stolo Family Vineyards – based in Cambria, this coastal winery produces wines more similar to Sonoma Coast’s style as opposed to nearby Paso Robles. The 2016 Estate Syrah and the 2015 Estate Hillside Reserve Syrah were both great examples of cool climate wines.

Sweetzer Cellars – An excellent example of consumers turned winemakers and named after the street they lived on in West Hollywood, I really enjoyed the 2017 Rose of Grenache as well as the 2016 Grenache from the Central Coast.

TLO Wines – good news for Bakersfield residents and those not far from there: TLO is opening a tasting room just for you. I especially liked the 2016 blend of Tempranillo, Syrah and Mourvedre as well as the 2014 Reserve Syrah.

TW Fermentation Co. – I’m admittedly more of a Rhone and Zin guy, but this Paso Robles winery is selling me on Paso Cab with the 2012-2014 vertical of Straight Cab as well as their 2014 Bordeaux blend.

Wildwood Oak Winery – it was nice to see some Lodi representation. Anita and Tony Matlock source their grapes from there; the winery is in Redlands. I enjoyed the 2016 “Dancing Queen” Syrah from the Abba Vineyard [get it?].

As I mentioned above, there were almost 50 wineries pouring so I if I didn’t mention a winery I probably didn’t get to it this time.

To bring this article full circle [see Part One], I haven’t read anywhere as to whether Jonathan Gold had an opinion about The Garagiste Festival. I like to think he would have approved. Not sure what he’d think of this article though. He was once quoted [tongue in cheek?] as saying: “Wine writing is what food writers do when their knees start to go.”

Limerick Lane + Salt Creek Grille = a Fun Preview! The Main Event is 8/16!

August 10, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Was pretty amazed, yes by the superb fruit and balance in the Rhônes and Zinfandels from Limerick Lane, and by the amazing auction items that had been donated so far to this particular Boy and Girls Club of SCV fundraiser, but equal to all that (for me) was a food pairing menu by Salt Creek Grille catering and Chef Tamra Levine.

Photo by Carl Kanowsky.

So, opposite of what I normally do – share my tasting notes on the fabulous wines first – I want to share the menu. Again you may ask why? This time I’ll tell you: Chef Tamra did the pairing based on the winery tasting notes, and created dishes she herself had never created before. Again you may ask how? She did what I would do – if I could cook – and incorporated the hints of the fruits and spices from the wines into her dishes. These are the Hors d’oeuvres, my notes are in parenthesis:

Mini Punjabi Grilled Cheese Panini (Mango chutney is in there!)

French Seafood Cassoulet (We didn’t sample but it sounded amazing as Cassoulet is traditionally made with beef.)

Old World Spiced Grilled Chicken/Vegetable Fritter/Pomegranate Glaze (Will you be able to find those same pomegranate notes in the wine?)

Provencal Short Ribs/Sautéed Gnocchi (We didn’t sample this one so you have to let me know how it is!)

Wine Country French Toast/Zinfandel Rosemary Sauce/Oven Roasted Grapes (Don’t care what this was paired with, just wanted to take it home!)

The Wines

Watching the SCVTV video of our preview, Carl Kanowsky, who has organized this event annually with his wife Terry, explains that “Jake (Bilbro) introduces each wine” that will be poured by Salt Creek staff for the guests and “you don’t have to fight with other people to get up to the really good stuff. It’s all going to be there for you.” Ann Marie Bjorkman, President of the Boys and Girls Club commented, “It’s nice and intimate – and limited to 75 people.” Here’s a peek:

2017 Rose of Grenache and Syrah

94 points Wine Enthusiast, reportedly the highest score the magazine has ever awarded to a Rose.

With aromas of grapefruit, mango, peach, shale, banana and strawberry, followed by the same fruit flavors on the mouth. Light and smooth, as well as a medium acidity, and long finish.

2016 “Hail Mary” Grenache and Syrah blend

93+ Robert Parker

93 Wine Enthusiast

Terry Kanowsky commented on the “delightful bouquet” that included black cherry, blackberry, crushed leaves, earth and sage. On the mouth we got the same black fruit, medium tannin, smoke, cigar and a long finish – a “huge back palate” according to Chef Levine, I had to agree.

2016 “1910” Zinfandel (The 1910 denotes the year the vineyard was first planted.)

96+ Robert Parker

95 Wine Enthusiast

Flowery, spicy and bold fruit on the nose; then a lovely amount of black fruit, spice and drying qualities in the mouth.

2016 Russian River Estate Zinfandel

92 Robert Parker

93 Wine Enthusiast

With red, blue and black fruit aromas, as well as cracked black pepper Mike Bjorkman called a “bit of pepper” on the nose; then in the mouth it was big, spicy and bold with an extra long finish.

2015 “1023” Zinfandel

93 Robert Parker

95 Wine Spectator

Interesting hard candy on the nose, then plums, milk chocolate and forest floor. In the mouth it was dark, spicy and dry. Love a wine that has the aromas to pull you in.

2015 “1910” Zinfandel

95 Robert Parker

91 Wine Spectator

Aromas of blueberry jam, earth, dusty and zero heat on the nose (all of these Zins showed no alcohol burn) while in the mouth we got a nice sweet, peppery, and dark fruit – all in perfect balance.

Exclusive Auction Items (available only that evening)

Two one-day Park Hopper Passes to Disneyland/California Adventure.

Two tickets to a Los Angeles Kings game in November 2018.

Framed, autographed photo of Dustin Brown and Anze Kopitar with Certificates of Authenticity.

Dinner for two with Limerick Lane wine at Salt Creek Grille before the Kings game; limo to Kings game.

Private tour, tasting and lunch at Limerick Lane and Jake Bilbro: Jake will coordinate with the winning bidder to create an irreplaceable “Limerick Lane Experience.” Lodging for one night in Sonoma County. Tour and tasting the following day at two of Jake’s best friends wineries: Arista and Mauritson. Arista is known as one of California’s top producers of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and Mauritson’s 7 generations of farming in the Dry Creek valley make for an unparalleled experience tasting their allocated Zinfandels and Cabernet’s. (This lot requires at least eight weeks advance reservation with Jake and is subject to his availability and activities at Limerick Lane.)

Chef Michelle Bustillos will provide a Cooking Lesson in your home, with Limerick Lane Wine Pairing, for six people.

Tickets and Info

Date: Thursday, August 16, 2018 at 6:30 p.m. for

Salt Creek Grille
24415 Town Center Drive, Valencia

Please join Jake Bilbro of Sonoma County’s Limerick Lane in a tasting of select wines from the winery’s collection. Well-known wine critic Robert Parker says of Limerick, “If you haven’t caught onto the magic that is emerging from Limerick Lane, it’s about time. Impressive heights of quality.”

Ticket link –> http://www.scvbgc.org/

The Winners of the 2018 Global Wine Awards, Nine Judges (including yours truly) Select Best in Show and Highest Awards Winners

August 3, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Las Vegas, Nev. – The inaugural 2018 Global Wine Awards was hosted June 18- 20 at the Tropicana Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The competition featured nine world class judges with a panel of the finest palates including, Master Sommeliers, Masters of Wine, wine educators and industry experts.

Bottom Row: Cami Sisk MS, Chairwoman of the Judges Panel Deborah Parker Wong, Eve Bushman, Stacie Hunt. Top Row: Danny Ronen, Paul Ellis, Cassandra Brown, David Glancy MS, Roger Bohmrich MW

L to R Top Row: Danny Ronen, Paul Ellis, Cassandra Brown, David Glancy MS, Roger Bohmrich MW. L to R Bottom Row: Cami Sisk MS, Chairwoman of the Judges Panel Deborah Parker Wong, Eve Bushman, Stacie Hunt.

The 3-day judging process for the diverse and specific wine categories began with a 100% blind tasting preliminary round, with the best wines advancing to the Sweepstakes Rounds, where the Double Gold and The Best of Show Categories were awarded.

Featured Award Winning Wines: ( For a complete list of all the Gold, Silver and Bronze winners, visit GlobalWineAwards.co/)

• Overall Best in Show and Best in Show, Red Wine:
o Martellotto Wine Productions, 2016 Il Cappocia Riserva (Barrel Aged)

• The Best in Show, White Wine:
o Frank Family Vineyards, Late Harvest Chardonnay

“Our expert judges are pleased to announce the 2018 Global Wine Awards winners who all represent excellence in winemaking skills and superior presentation from all around the world. The wines were judged based on varietal expression, uniqueness in character and approachability” said Eddie Rivkin, CEO/Executive Director of Global Wine Awards. “Las Vegas is an entertainment destination known globally for its vibrant wine culture, its fine-dining restaurants and celebrity chefs. It was the perfect paring to our first annual event.” he said.

Double Gold Winners (Listed by: Winery, Wine Name, Wine Type, Vintage, Score):

Martellotto Wine Productions, Martellotto, Il Capoccia Riserva, 2016, 97
Frank Family Vineyards, Frank Family Vineyards, Late Harvest Chardonnay, NV, 97
Wines Of Greece, VOURVOUKELI ESTATE MALAGOUZIA, Malagouzia, 2017, 97

2Hawk Vineyard & Winery, 2Hawk Winery, Viognier, 2016, 96
Penrose Hill, Cantharos, Grenache, 2014, 96
Cellardoor Winery, Cellardoor Winery, Petite Sirah, 2013, 96
Wines of Greece, HELEXO WINERY RETSINA White, RETSINA white, 2016, 96The prestigious judges, encompassing years of expertise, passion and credibility in the wine industry, featured: Deborah Parker Wong, Global Wine Chairwoman and Editor for SOMM Journal and The Tasting; David Glancy, Master Sommelier & CWE, Founder & CEO of San Francisco Wine School, the largest wine school in the USA; Cameron Sisk, Master Sommelier, with thirty-five years in restaurants; Cassandra M. Brown, Certified Sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and Certified Specialist of Wine from the Society of Wine Educators; Stacie Hunt, Certified Silver Pin Sommelier /North American Sommelier Association and Vice President of the Board of the National Association of Wine Retailers; Paul R. Ellis, Sommelier at Rao’s, Caesars Palace; Eve Bushman, 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); Roger Bohmrich, Master of Wine, independent consultant, writer, and educator; and Dänny Ronen, educator in spirit and cocktail development.
During the awards competition, all the wines, in their respective and specific sub-categories, were sampled together as flights, carefully evaluated in all aspects, and scored by each one of the skilled judges. All winners received industry acknowledgment and a distinguished medal of recognition.

The scoring ranges are: Bronze – 80-84
Silver – 85-89
Gold – 90-95

Double Gold – 96-100

About Global Wine Awards & Global Spirits Awards

Eddie Rivkin CEO/Executive Director of Global Wine Awards and Global Spirits Awards hosts the events from the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information and a complete list of judges bios, photos and winners, visit the website at www.GlobalWineAwards.co. Follow on Instagram at Globalwineawardslv.

Perlis Picks: Taste The World

July 7, 2018 by Michael Perlis Leave a Comment

Every two years, trade and media has the opportunity to “taste the world” with distributor and importer Henry Wine Group. In a large ballroom at the Westin Bonaventure filled with wine and a small section devoted to spirits [covered by Eve in a recent article] we got to sample literally hundreds [if one were so inclined] of offerings from a wide variety of domestic and international producers.

Upon entering the event, we were provided with a wine tasting glass and a 158 page book – I told you there were a lot of wines to taste! Here were some of my favorites…

Ancient Peaks – I always love the Renegade and the Oyster Ridge blends, and the 2015 and 2014 of these, respectively, were both excellent.

Andrew Murray Vineyards – Another old favorite, one of the wineries that first got me into Rhones. The 2016 Enchante did it for me today.

Dashe Cellars – They’ve expanded their fun carbonic maceration line and continue to make great Zinfandels, including my usual favorite Todd Brothers Ranch (2015 this time).

Elizabeth Spencer Winery – I wasn’t really familiar with this Mendocino based winery but getting introduced to their delicious 2016 Grenache solved that problem.

Joullian Vineyards – One might not expect great Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon from the Monterey Peninsula, but this winery in the Carmel Valley belies that notion with their 2013 ‘Sias Cuvee’ Zin and 2014 Estate Cab.

Mettler Family Vineyards – I liked all three of the wines this Lodi winery was pouring – the Estate Cabernet, the “Epicenter” Old Vine Zinfandel and especially the Estate Petite Sirah, all from the 2015 vintage.

Mundovino – This importer had a whopping 10 tables at the event. Admittedly, I tend to focus on domestic producers but I wanted to try some Argentinean Malbec. I tasted some very impressive wines from Catena at all price points, especially the 2014 Catena Zapata Alta Malbec and the 2015 Catena Zapata Argentino Malbec.

Pestoni Family Estate Winery – Another new to me winery, I enjoyed everything they poured – 2016 Rutherford Sauvignon Blanc, 2015 “1892” Field Blend and the 2013 and 2014 Howell Mtn Cabernet Sauvignons.

Saucelito Canyon Vineyards – Great Zinfandel from the Arroyo Grande Valley? You better believe it. Their 2015 Estate Zinfandel comes from a vineyard that was originally planted in 1880.

Shafer Vineyards – Shafer’s Cabernet Sauvignons are legendary and I wasn’t going to pass up a chance to taste them. Loved both the 2015 One Point Five Stag’s Leap and of course the 2013 Hillside Select Stag’s Leap as well.

Sinor-Lavallee – Bringing this list full circle, this is Ancient Peaks’ Director of Winemaking Mike Sinor’s own project. The Pinot Noirs were great but I was admittedly here for the Syrahs – the 2013 White Label – Bassi Vineyard, 2015 SLO/Estate and 2014 Black Label – Bassi Vineyard were all outstanding.

There was obviously a lot more I could have tasted [158 pages, after all] but I probably spent too much time catching up with various members of the trade who I’ve known over the years. My biggest takeaway from all this is that Henry Wine Group represents some excellent wineries. If you see their name on the label as distributor or importer, you can be assured you are getting quality, regardless of the price point.

Perlis Picks: Benom Wines

June 23, 2018 by Michael Perlis Leave a Comment

In a recent article, I wrote about Guillaume Fabre, who came from the South of France and created Clos Solene for his wife and fortunately for all of us as well.

BENOM As it turns out, Guillaume has a brother – Arnaud. And while Karen and I had initially met Guillaume at a wine festival, our introduction to Arnaud was indirectly related to one.

Back in 2013, we attended the Ojai Wine Festival for the first time. Karen came across a new winery that she insisted I try…Law Estate Wines. She was right, of course. The wines were great and we’ve been fans of Law ever since.

But that’s not when we met Arnaud.

A couple of years later, we were tasting at the new Law tasting room in Paso Robles where we met Arnaud for the first time when he conducted a tasting for us. Now, I’m no genius but even I could figure out when we met this tall young man from France with the last name Fabre, that he must be the brother of Clos Solene’s winemaker / owner Guillaume.

In my article about Clos Solene, I wrote about how Guillaume convinced the love of his life, Solene, to come to Paso Robles. Arnaud’s story is similar, as he found his soulmate once he joined Guillaume in Paso and met Chloe of L’Aventure Winery. His job as Sales and Marketing Manager of Law keeps him very busy, especially now that he and now-wife Chloe have a baby.

Busy as he is, the pull of making wine with his brother Guillaume has always been present. So, when Guillaume moved Clos Solene from its spot in Tin City to the new estate property, it was time for the brothers to see what they could do together.

Benom was born. Arnaud told us that focusing on Cabernet Sauvignon and Blends, they wanted to bridge their roots (Languedoc-Roussillon and Bordeaux) with Paso Robles, producing wine that reflects the style of a French wine with the richness and power of Paso Robles.

What does “benom” mean? Don’t try to look it up. It is the phonetic spelling of the French word “binôme”, meaning “a project together, a duo”. I’ve tried to allude to similarities and differences of the two Fabre brothers, such as how we met both of them and how they met their loves. The wines reflect this as well.

The 2017 Contrast is an almost 50/50 blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, which is a very atypical blend. It is definitely not something you’d find in France or in many places, actually. It turns out that the natural acidity of the SB matches up perfectly with the richness of the Chardonnay.

Another blend is the 2017 L’Essor, 52% Grenache and 48% Cabernet Sauvignon. Did I mention this was a Rosé? When did you last or ever come across Cab in a Rosé? The Grenache was picked especially for this wine and the Cabernet is the bleed-off from their 100% Cabernet Sauvignon [more on this below]. This is an unusual blend that really works well.

Speaking of unusual blends, the 2015 Les Deux Frères is comprised of Grenache, Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon. Even my very limited knowledge of French enabled me to translate this as The Two Brothers; and a fitting tribute to them it is as it was my favorite wine of our visit.

Finally, we tasted the 2015 Origin. This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon has everything the Cab lover could want – great fruit and aging structure. It is a beautiful nod to the Fabre brothers’ French roots with the power of Paso Robles. But, a sneak peek of the 2016 makes me think the best is yet to come.

It is going to be exciting to see what this project borne of brotherly love creates for the future.

Benom

3050 Limestone Way

Paso Robles, CA 93446

Perlis Picks: Epic Times at Epoch Estate Wines

June 2, 2018 by Michael Perlis Leave a Comment

In my last article, I mentioned that I’d next be writing about who went into the old Clos Solene spot at Tin City. Well, some technical difficulties have delayed that report, so this week you get…

Photo from Epoch Facebook page.

One of the benefits of living in Southern California, as do most of our Eve Wine 101 readers, is proximity to various wine regions. Santa Barbara wine country is just a couple of hours away, Paso Robles a little farther and a few more hours gets you to Napa, Sonoma and beyond.

Inevitably, once you do start visiting wineries, you’ll be presented with opportunities to join winery clubs. With so many wineries offering great wines, it is easy to get overwhelmed. How do you decide which clubs to join? For us, it is often, in addition to the wine quality, it is the feeling that we have a personal relationship with the people involved.

Epoch Estate Wines in Paso Robles is a great case in point. Karen and I first tasted the Epoch wines in 2010 when they were still being made at Denner. We had the good fortune to meet Kristen Darnell (née Carrillo), now Epoch’s Vice President of Sales and Personnel as well as newly hired winemaker Jordan Fiorentini. The wines were great, Kristen and Jordan were too, and the fact that the owners had purchased the old York Mountain Winery site to develop their winery [a place we had first visited in the 1980s] was icing on the cake. We were hooked.

A perk of being in a wine club is that members often get invited to special events. Recently, Epoch members were invited to the beautiful state of the art winery on York Mountain to attend not one but two events.

The first event, reserved for the top tier of Epoch members, started with a reception that included passed appetizers along with Epoch’s newly released white blend [Viognier, Grenache Blanc and Roussanne] and Rose [Mourvedre, Grenache and Syrah] wines. Both were excellent but the Rose is really something special. Just ask my wife Karen.

Then, we were treated to an elegant sit-down dinner in the winery, paired with the great Epoch wines.

The 2015 Sensibility [Grenache and Syrah] was paired with Manchego & Prosciutto. The 2015 Zinfandel [with a touch of Grenache] was matched with Grilled Quail and the 2015 Veracity [Grenache, Mourvedre and Syrah] with Wild Mushroom Risotto. Finally, the 2015 Estate Blend of Syrah, Mourvedre, Grenache, Tempranillo and Zinfandel was served with barbecued New York Strip with bone marrow butter and Roquefort whipped potatoes. The dessert table filled with petit fours and brownies topped off the evening, along with more wine to accompany them.

The next evening, open to all Epoch members, was a more casual affair with serving stations set up in the winery. The white blend and the Rose were available at the entry to the event along with various appetizers. The reds were paired as follows…

2015 Sensibility with two flatbreads – one wild mushroom and the other prosciutto and arugula.

2015 Zinfandel with bacon wrapped blue cheese stuffed dates.

2015 Veracity with Capicola and blue cheese skewers.

2015 Estate Blend with lamb sliders.

There was also Seafood and Chorizo Paella, which Karen really enjoyed with the Rose.

Although the events were markedly different from each other, they both really emphasized one thing to me. While the wines are delicious on their own, they really shine when they are paired expertly with the right dishes.

The other thing that always has struck me about Epoch is the amazingly nice people that work for them. Owners Bill and Liz Armstrong told me that this is the first requirement in their hiring process as almost anything else can be taught. Kudos on a job well done.