Eve's Wine 101

Madera Wines Are Winners!

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MADERA, CA  — Each summer season the California wine world is abuzz with news from the prestigious Sunset International Wine Competition. More than 2,900 vintages vie for the annual accolades, and this year, two of Madera County’s most beloved wineries took home Double Gold!

To earn a Double Gold medal, the judges must award a score higher than 95 points. This is no easy feat amongst the distinguished applicants in this year’s field. Excitingly, San Joaquin Winery’s 2021 Toschi Vineyards Red Moscato did exactly that, earning the winery its highest award to date. In addition, Westbrook Wine Farm, located in the Sierra foothill hamlet of O’Neals, also took home Double Gold and Best of Class for the Westbrook Wine Farm NV Malmsey Dearest.

“To have a wine receive a medal here is no small achievement,” stated Debra DelFiorentino, CEO / Executive Director of the Sunset International Wine Competition. “Our competition is one of the most respected, recognized for consistently identifying the best wines produced internationally. This contest again drew top-level wines, and our hand-picked, top-quality judges determined which wines stood out as worthy of accolades.”

In addition to their first Double Gold Medal, San Joaquin Winery also earned silver medals for their Moody Press Cellars Brut Blanc de Blanc and Toschi Vineyards Family Blend at the 2022 Sunset International Wine Competition. Furthermore, the winery earned silver medals and 91 points each for the 2021 Toschi Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc, 2020 Moody Press Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2019 Toschi Vineyards Pinot Noir at the California State Fair.

“We are very proud and excited to receive our latest medals, especially the Double Gold for our Toschi Vineyards Red Moscato. The Moscato grapes come from our locally farmed vineyard, which we carefully evaluate for quality from bud break to harvest,” San Joaquin Winery, Winemaker Miguel Sanchez, shared. “The hours spent monitoring this vineyard have definitely paid off! We hope you will stop by our tasting room, open seven days a week, and try these latest award-winning wines.”

Westbrook Wine Farm winemaker Ray Krause, gives thanks to his clientele (the ultimate judges) for their continued support. Westbrook Wine Farm is open for wine tasting by appointment only. Cheers!
 

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About Visit Yosemite | Madera County

Formed in 1985, Visit Yosemite | Madera County’s mission is to draw the millions of Yosemite National Park visitors to its gateway’s many businesses and attractions. We invite visitors to take a journey from the Fossil Discovery Center to the Madera Wine Trail and onward into the High Sierra. Discover incredible dining, talented tradespersons, four seasons of water sports at Bass Lake, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, and mighty adventures right up to the massive Giant Sequoia trees. Madera County is the gateway to so much more.

Abadía Retuerta now holds the maximum distinction in Spanish Wine Law: the Protected Designation of Origin of Vino de Pago

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The new classification, Vino de Pago Abadía Retuerta (PDO), is a further endorsement of the winery’s outstanding achievements, following over eight centuries of winemaking on the estate

·       This recognition is a credit to the forward thinking, excellence and profound knowledge of this pioneering winery in the Duero Valley

·       Enrique Valero, CEO at Abadía Retuerta: “We are incredibly proud of this achievement, because it is a testament to our working philosophy, our know-how and determination. We have a unique approach to winemaking: our wine enhances and reflects all the personality of the surrounding lands, right here at the heart of the Duero Valley”

Sardón de Duero – Abadía Retuerta has been awarded the maximum distinction in Spanish Wine Law: it now holds the Denominación de Origen Protegida (Protected Designation of Origin, or PDO) of Vino de Pago. Following a very long registration process, this classification has now been ratified in the European Union’s Official Journal.

In the term Vino de Pago, a “pago” refers to a plot of land with its own particular soil and microclimate characteristics, setting it apart from other neighbouring plots. This prestigious recognition is therefore an endorsement of the estate’s soils: Abadía Retuerta’s wine is an authentic expression of the terroir, i.e. the local climatic and geographical traits that give rise to vines and grapes with truly unique qualities. In Spain, this label is at the very top of the wine classification scale, which goes up from Table Wine, Regional Wine, Quality Wine with Geographic Indication, Protected Designation of Origin, Qualified Designation of Origin, and finally Vino de Pago as the uppermost category.

Enrique Valero, CEO of Abadía Retuerta, notes that “we are incredibly proud of this achievement, because it is a testament to our working philosophy, our know-how and our determination. We do not mindlessly follow the latest trends: our sole aim has always been to revive this noble and historic winery, while maintaining a unique approach to winemaking that really does enhance and reflect all the personality of the Duero Valley”. This leading winery, in the municipality of Sardón de Duero (in Spain’s Golden Mile of Wine), is defined by excellence and a devotion to the craft: “It was Saint Norbert of Xanten, founder of the Premonstratensian order of canons regular, who said ‘Seek peace and pursue it’. This phrase has been a great inspiration to us, encouraging us to respect the rhythms of nature and history, and to adhere to this age-old philosophy. Our priority is to uphold the legacy passed down to us: we strive to maintain the estate’s unique winemaking tradition”, adds Valero.

A unique winemaking tradition

This recognition is an endorsement of Abadía Retuerta and its long history of winemaking, right at the heart of the Duero Valley. As historians have established, this is a deeply-rooted tradition that dates back to the early Christian era. The grapevine was brought to Spain by the Romans, and they planted it all over the north of the peninsula, including the lands around the Duero and what would become Abadía Retuerta. Ten centuries later, the Christians founded their monasteries, including the Monastery of Santa María de Retuerta, which was established in 1146 following a substantial donation of lands and vineyards. In the Duero region, the monks persisted with their cultivation of grapevines and, gradually, they mastered the art of winemaking. They learnt how to get the most out of the region’s lands, which were sunny yet cold in winter, and hot and dry in summer. Thanks to the vines’ adaptability and strength, the resulting wine would become one of the region’s best products.

These are the foundations upon which the pillars of Abadía Retuerta are built. Their team’s guiding philosophy is to revive an ancient winery, uphold a rich local winemaking tradition and help the surrounding lands reach their full potential. This striking estate, in the Duero Valley, is home to eight long centuries of winemaking heritage. Just over thirty years ago, it was revived by an experienced team under the guidance of wine expert Ángel Anocíbar, aided by renowned vigneron and former director of Château Ausone and Château Belair, Pascal Delbeck. Today’s final confirmation of the PDO Vino de Pago is a testament to their many years of effort: they have tirelessly worked to create unique and imitable wines, striving for excellence at each and every step in the winemaking process.

A long line of prestigious awards

This new achievement, the PDO Vino de Pago classification, is the latest in a long line of awards and prizes that certify Abadía Retuerta as one of the world’s greatest winemakers. One such highlight was the Abadía Retuerta Selección Especial 2001 winning the award for the World’s Best Red Wine (Red Wine Trophy) at the 2005 International Wine Challenge in London (Wine Magazine, UK). It was also the first Spanish winery to feature for three consecutive years in the Top 100 Wines in the World, published since 1988 by the accredited American magazine Wine Spectator, with the Abadía Retuerta Selección Especial. In particular, the 2012 vintage reached number 12 on this list.

Year after year, the Pago and Petit Verdot wines have been rated very highly in renowned publications such as the Robert Parker Wine Advocate, the aforementioned Wine Spectator, Guía Peñín and Guía Gourmets. Pago Valdebellón 2014 won the Top Medal Master in the Global Cabernet Sauvignon Masters (as awarded by The Drinks Business), and Pago Negralada 2014 was awarded Platinum Best in the Best Northwest Spanish Red Category at the 2017 International Wine Challenge, in addition to the Great Gold Medal in the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. Pago Garduña 2013 was considered by Robert Parker’s taster, Luis Gutiérrez, to be the Best Syrah in Spain.

As regards the Blanco LeDomaine, the British wine critic Jancis Robinson has given it a superb review, and its second vintage on sale was chosen as the best white wine in Spain by Verema.com.

The vineyard plots at Abadía Retuerta

Abadía Retuerta is a unique place where the past lives on in the present, and where centuries of tradition and culture remain intact. The River Duero defines the surrounding landscape, creating unique conditions for winemaking. An expert team with great dedication, know-how and patience really get the best out of this terrain: they respect the natural cycles and help the vines adapt to the harsh climate of the region, in order to produce one of the estate’s prized assets: its world-class wine.

Abadía Retuerta creates wines that express all the personality of each individual plot in the vineyard. Only the very best wines are released for sale, as and when the vintage is of a high enough standard. The estate spans 700 hectares, 180 of which are set aside for vine growing. These vineyards are split into 54 small plots, divided according to their soil composition, and each one is planted with a single grape variety. Syrah takes up 10%, Tempranillo 70%, and Cabernet Sauvignon 10%. The remaining 10% is divided between Merlot, Petit Verdot and a number of white varieties.

South Coast and Carter Estate Wineries Earn More Wine Medals

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TEMECULA, Calif. – South Coast Winery and Carter Estate Winery, owned by the Carter family, are the proud recipients of a total of 16 esteemed winning medals at the renowned Toast of the Coast Wine Competition produced by the San Diego County Fair, which takes place annually at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in Del Mar, Calif. The competition celebrates wineries from around the world producing the finest quality wines. Judging by 18 wine-credentialed judges, including winemakers, wine journalists, consultants, educators, hospitality proprietors, sommeliers and wine directors, took place on March 26 and 27, and close to 500 winners were posted on April 8.

“The Toast of the Coast Competition is always a most worthwhile wine judging arena for the fruitful labors of our Temucula-based master winemakers Jon McPherson, Javier Flores and their dedicated team,” said Jeff Carter, president of Carter Hospitality. “South Coast Winery’s Double Gold placements for Meritage 2017 and Grenache Blanc 2020 and Carter Estate Winery’s Double Gold for its Daybreak with bottling in 2022 are accomplishments we are especially proud of achieving.”

South Coast Winery Toast of the Coast 2022 Winners:

Ø  Meritage 2017, Double Gold, 94 points

Ø  Grenache Blanc 2020, Double Gold, 94 points

Ø  Verdelho 2020, Gold, 92 points

Ø  Maverick, 2017, Gold, 91 points

Ø  Sauvignon Blanc 2019, Gold, 91 points

Ø  Sangiovese 2017, Gold, 90 points

Ø  Late Harvest Gewurztraminer 2020, Gold, 90 points

Ø  20th Anniversary 2018, Silver

Ø  Chardonnay Sans Chene 2020, Silver

Ø  Pinot Blanc 2020, Silver

Ø  Pinot Grigio, 2020, Silver

Ø  Big Red Table 6th Edition NV, Silver

Carter Estate Winery Toast of the Coast 2022 Winners:

Ø  Daybreak (2022 bottling) NV, Double Gold, 95 points

Ø  Brut 2015, Silver

Ø  Blanc de Blanc 2015, Silver

Ø  Blanc de Noir 2015, Silver

A list of all winners and additional information is available at thetoastofthecoast.com.

About South Coast Winery Resort & Spa

The only winery among the state’s top wineries to claim the title of California Winery of the Year four times at the California State Fair Wine Competition, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa sets the gold standard for excellence amongst California wineries, earning more than 3,000 awards since its inception in 2003. Situated on 63 lush acres, the resort offers a breathtaking retreat for wine tours, romantic getaways and group events with 132 rooms and villas, a working winery and tasting room, gift shop, full-service spa and restaurant.

South Coast Winery offers a broad portfolio of 45 wine labels, the majority of which are available for sampling in its main tasting room – from robust reds such as Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Petit Syrah, Merlot and Pinot Noir to whites including Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Riesling. Also available are sparkling wines, dessert wines and other specialty offerings. The winery employs a staff of skilled winemakers, including master winemaker Jon McPherson and winemaker Javier Flores, both with decades of experience in the wine industry.

For more information, visit www.southcoastwinery.com.

About Carter Hospitality Group

Established in 2011, Carter Hospitality Group, LLC. is a family-owned hospitality company with four hotels and resorts as well as three wineries across the United States. Based in Orange County, California, the company manages and owns a portfolio of luxury properties including South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, Temecula, California; Carter Estate Winery and Resort, Temecula California; and Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa, Texas Hill Country. Carter Hospitality Group additionally serves as the owner-franchisee for Red Lion Hotel Orlando Lake Buena Vista South, Orlando Florida. For more information, visit www.carterhospitality.com.

South Coast Winery Garners 20 Awards from LA Competition

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TEMECULA, Calif. – South Coast Winery, owned by the Carter family, raised the gold standard at the 83rd anniversary of the Los Angeles International Wine Competition – winning two “Best of Class” gold medals, five other gold medals, eight silver medals and five bronze medals – stellar recognition for 20 of its wines. Sister winery Carter Estate Winery was also awarded three Silver Medals at the competition.

The 2022 Los Angeles International Wine Competition received 1,250 wines to judge, and the entrants showcase their finest domestic and international vintages through this prestigious wine event with judging taking place on March 9 to 10. Competing wines were produced in 19 countries, including: Argentina, Australia, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Portugal, Spain and the United States.

The public will have its first opportunity to taste and learn about the award-winning wines at The Learning Centers at Fairplex, which offers an extensive wine education program at the Los Angeles County Fair being held from May 5 to 30 and attended by approximately 1 million people each year and at CHEERS!, a June fundraising event to benefit the education programs of The Learning Center.

“We are extremely proud to have been recognized by a leading, 83-year-old wine institution, being judged by a team of highly trained wine professionals and compared to so many outstanding domestic and international producers,” said Jeff Carter, president of Carter Hospitality, which owns South Coast Winery and Carter Estate Winery. “And we are pleased the Los Angeles International Wine Competition gives wine enthusiasts the chance to taste winning wines at the famous Los Angeles County Fair and its CHEERS! educational event.”

Following are the 20 South Coast Winery winning wines from the Los Angeles International Wine Competition:

Best of Class Gold Medal: Sparkling, Gewurztraminer, Temecula Valley, 94 points

Best of Class Gold Medal: Port, Black Jack Port, South Coast, 94 points

Gold Medal: Grenache Blanc, Temecula Valley 2020, 93 points

Gold Medal: Sparkling Pinot Grigio, Temecula Valley 2020, 92 points

Gold Medal: Rhone Style Blend, 20th Anniversary, South Coast 2018, 92 points

Gold Medal: Riesling, Temecula Valley 2020, 91 points

Gold Medal: Sangiovese, South Coast 2017, 91 points

Silver Medal: Viognier, Temecula Valley 2019

Silver Medal: Red Blend, Big Red Table, South Coast

Silver Medal: Red Blend, South Coast 2017

Silver Medal: Pinot Blanc, “Sur Lie,” Temecula Valley 2020

Silver Medal: Verdelho, Temecula Valley 2020

Silver Medal: Sparkling Rosé, Vineyard Rose, Temecula Valley 2018

Silver Medal: Red Blend, Meritage South Coast 2017

Silver Medal: Red Blend, Tempranillo, Monastrell, South Coast 2015

Bronze Medal: Sparkling, Spumante Diamante, Temecula Valley

Bronze Medal: Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands 2019

Bronze Medal: Chardonnay, Sans Chene, South Coast 2019

Bronze Medal: Sauvignon Blanc, Musqué Clone, Temecula Valley 2019

Bronze Medal: Gewurztraminer, Temecula Valley 2019

The Carter family’s sister winery, Carter Estate Winery, in Temecula also earned citations for three of its wines at the 2022 Los Angeles International Wine Competition:

Silver Medal: Blanc de Blanc, South Coast 2015

Silver Medal: Blanc de Noir, South Coat 2015

Silver Medal: Brut, South Coast 2015

A list of all winners and additional information is available at https://fairplex.com/competitions/wine-competition.

About South Coast Winery

The only winery among the state’s top wineries to claim the title of California Winery of the Year four times at the California State Fair Wine Competition, South Coast Winery sets the gold standard for excellence amongst California wineries, earning more than 3,000 awards since its inception in 2003. Situated on 63 lush acres, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa offers a breathtaking retreat for wine tours, romantic getaways and group events with 132 rooms and villas, a working winery and tasting room, gift shop, full-service spa and restaurant.

South Coast Winery offers a broad portfolio of 45 wine labels, the majority of which are available for sampling in its main tasting room – from robust reds such as Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Petit Syrah, Merlot and Pinot Noir to whites including Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Riesling. Also available are sparkling wines, dessert wines and other specialty offerings. The winery employs a staff of skilled winemakers, including master winemaker Jon McPherson and winemaker Javier Flores, both with decades of experience in the wine industry.

For more information, visit www.southcoastwinery.com.

About Carter Hospitality Group

Established in 2011, Carter Hospitality Group, LLC. is a family-owned hospitality company with four hotels and resorts as well as three wineries across the United States. Based in Orange County, California, the company manages and owns a portfolio of luxury properties including South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, Temecula, California; Carter Estate Winery and Resort, Temecula California; and Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa, Texas Hill Country. Carter Hospitality Group additionally serves as the owner-franchisee for Red Lion Hotel Orlando Lake Buena Vista South, Orlando Florida. For more information, visit www.carterhospitality.com.

Caroline Martin Named Master Blender of The Busker Irish Whiskey

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NEW YORK (PRWEB) – Award-winning The Busker Irish Whiskey is proud to announce the appointment of Caroline Martin as its new Master Blender at Royal Oak Distillery. Caroline Martin joins the team following a successful launch campaign which saw the brand take home multiple top accolades and scores. Proof of this is the highest rating (94 points) and “Best Buy” among all Irish whiskey blends from Wine Enthusiast and the medal collections achieved at World Whiskies Awards and at San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Furthermore, The Busker Pot Still won a Gold Medal at the Irish Whiskey Awards last month; our pot still is the most typical expression of Irish Whiskey and we’re honored to be recognized as one of the best in this category.

Photo: Indulge Press.

Caroline Martin, taking over for John Ramsay, will be responsible for the ongoing quality of The Busker Irish Whiskey as well as delivering an exciting innovation program for the brand and category as a whole.

Caroline’s 35-year-long career showcases her incredible leadership and expertise having worked as a Master Blender and whisky specialist on various staple Scotch and Irish Whiskey brands such as J&B, Bell’s, Johnnie Walker and Old Parr, as well as Roe & Co. and Indian Signature blends. Her wealth of whisk(e)y knowledge, experience, and dedication to the craft has brought her wide recognition across the industry, earning her the prestigious titles of Keeper of the Quaich and Blender of the Year by The Spirits Business in 2019 for her role with Roe & Co. Caroline Martin also proudly carries her reputation as a mentor and pioneer for women in whisk(e)y, pushing the boundaries of this industry.

“I am honored to take on the title of Master Blender of such a contemporary, adventurous and bold range of whiskies. It’s an exciting time not only for The Busker as a brand, but for the Irish Whiskey sector as a whole, which remains the fastest growing spirits category,” says Caroline. “The Busker is currently the only brand offering the full Irish whiskey experience of single pot, malt and grain whiskeys as well as a blended whiskey, all of which are produced at Royal Oak Distillery. As such, we have full visibility and control of how our products are distilled, matured and blended,” says Caroline. “I’m looking forward to working alongside the team, harnessing my passion for whiskey flavors, crafting new whiskeys, and ensuring the ongoing quality of The Busker range which is already winning many whiskey awards.”

Alan Dempsey, General Manager of Royal Oak Distillery states “We are delighted to have Caroline as part of the team at Royal Oak Distillery, working alongside our lead whiskey blender, Niall Bolger. Caroline’s experience, skillful blending techniques and positive attitude will play a key role in continuing to deliver the high quality of whiskey that Royal Oak Distillery is recognized for, while also driving innovation and flavour development of our whiskey portfolio. We wish Caroline all the best in her new role.”

About The Busker:
The Busker Irish Whiskey is born out of a modern Ireland, where the contemporary and bold meet at the crossroads of tradition. The Busker is produced at Royal Oak Distillery in County Carlow, Ireland, which is located on an 18th century estate in Ireland’s Ancient East region. It is the only distillery in Ireland which offers all three classic Irish styles of whiskey – Single Grain, Single Malt, & Single Pot Still, which make The Busker Single Collection. The Busker portfolio also includes The Busker Blend which is a beautiful blend of The Single Collection. The Busker uses different casks during the maturation process of their whiskeys including Bourbon casks, Sherry casks and Marsala casks. Most recently, The Busker took home multiple top accolades at the 2020 LA Spirits Awards: The Busker Single Malt was awarded the 2020 Platinum Medal and Best Irish Whiskey, while the Single Pot Still and Blend were awarded the Gold Medal.

For more information, visit http://www.thebusker.com and join the conversation at @thebusker_official

Canadian Gin Distiller Stadaconé Boldly Targets U.S. Market

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LIMOILOU QUÉBEC CITY (PRWEB) – Preparing to make its U.S. debut in 2022, Stadaconé continues on the epic journey of pairing its handcrafted gins with unexpected ingredients.

Set in the heart of the beguiling Limoilou neighborhood of Québec City, the Stadaconé Distillery takes its name from the Iroquoian village that existed there when European settlers led by Jacques Cartier first arrived in 1535. Motivated by this age of unbridled exploration, Stadaconé dares to offer spirits that navigate previously uncharted territory.

“History serves as our inspiration, but innovation guides our development,” says Jean-Pierre Allard, President of Stadaconé. “Since the company’s creation in 2019, our three signature gins have won twelve medals in Vancouver, San Francisco, Hong Kong and London.

We’re eager to share our distinctively flavored gins to an adventurous U.S. audience in the coming year.”

Stadaconé Noir brings to mind the maritime Spice Routes that once linked the East with the West for European traders and explorers. The addition of kaffir lime, Tasmanian berry, seeds of paradise and lavender give this gin its tropical notes. On the nose, one picks up an essence of lemongrass, while in the mouth, citrus flavors and peppery notes are discovered. Stadaconé Noir is meant to be consumed straight as it is considered a refined and luxurious treat for the senses.

Stadaconé’s ready-to-drink Gingria is a local favorite, quickly becoming the number one seller during its first summer in Québec with more than 700,000 cans sold in less than a year. This Québec-style nod to the traditional Spanish sangria showcases Stadaconé Rouge gin, expected to launch in the U.S. late 2022, and cranberry juice as tasteful replacements for the red wine customarily found in sangria and adds a decidedly refreshing citrus twist with lemon, mandarin and orange fruit flavors. Packaged in a colorful aluminum can with only nine grams of sugar per serving, Gingria is the ideal thirst quencher at casual get-togethers and parties.

Stadaconé’s mission is to follow the example set by the explorers: to be bold and embark on a course never before taken. Visitors to the Québec-based distillery have the opportunity to share in this undertaking first hand as they are invited to participate in an interactive escape room experience that begins the guided tour. Here, hardy adventurers follow a global journey, much like that of Jacques Cartier, before finally reaching their desired destination and discovering the incomparable taste of Stadaconé gins.

About Stadaconé
Stadaconé is the leading provider of spirits, exploration, and a unique experience in Québec. The Stadaconé Distillery, located in the Limoilou district, offers a unique opportunity for guests to play an immersive game before a guided tour and tasting of its gins. The brand’s three signature gins, along with its newly-introduced Gingria, offer a taste of innovation and impeccable quality, highlighting unexpected ingredients. The Stadaconé team has a true passion for all things gin, bringing a one-of-a-kind experience to spirits. For more information about Stadaconé, please visit http://www.stadacone.com. Follow Stadaconé on Instagram at @distillerie_stadacone, and Facebook at @distilleriestadacone.

Baja California to Host Two Prestigious Wine Events

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BAJA CALIFORNIA TO HOST WORLD CONGRESS OF VINE AND WINE 2022 AND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF THE INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION OF VINE AND WINE IN NOVEMBER 2022

ENSENADA, Baja Calif. – Two of the most important international events revolving around the wonderful world of wine, the 43rd World Congress of Vine and Wine 2022 and the 100-year old establishment of the National Assembly of the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV), will be held in Ensenada, Baja California, in November 2022 as determined by the 43 member states of the OIV.

Valle de Guadalupe_Aérea de Atardecer

The Congress of Vine and Wine brings together representatives of this international organization, a scientific and technical body of oenophile expert professionals who contribute to the global harmonization of practices and standards of wine production, table grapes and raisins, as well as other products such as vinegar and juices derived from the practices of viticulture.

“World attention will be focused on these paramount wine industry events, which will take place in our beautiful and bounteous Mexican countryside,” said the president of the Mexican Wine Council, Hans Backoff Guerrero. He continued, “We are expecting to host more than 1,500 national and international guests – scientists, researchers, specialists, producers and agro-industrialists – who will be dealing with relevant issues in their fields of wine interest, as well as the care of natural resources and oenological technology and innovation.”

Mexico’s winemaking tradition dates back to 1593 with the first winery for commercial production established in Parras, Coahuila. There are six internationally recognized oenological routes in the world, and some consider Ensenada, Baja California, as one of the best places to drink wine.

Baja is the producer of 72% of Mexican wine, housing more than 150 scenic wineries. Mexico itself has 14 vine-producing states with more than 50 varieties in production, and its industry generates more than 500,000 jobs. In previous years, the World Congress of Vine and Wine awarded over 1,500 medals and badges to Mexican wines recognizing their outstanding quality.

“Hosting this celebration in Baja will reinforce our commitment to the wine industry and also bolster our vital tourism business as visitors from all over the world are introduced to Baja’s charms, beauty, culture and uniqueness,” said Mario Escobedo, the head of the Baja California State Secretary for Sustainable Economy and Tourism.

About Baja California 

The State of Baja California occupies the northern half of the Baja California peninsula, providing some of Mexico’s most dramatic sea and landscapes. The State is made up of seven city municipalities, including its capital, Mexicali, along with Tijuana, Ensenada, San Felipe, Rosarito San Quintin and Tecate.

From remote deserts and beaches to lush forests, the region is known for an array of outdoor activities, including spectacular camping, hiking, world-class surfing, sailing, deep sea fishing, and more. Baja California is also home to a growing gastronomy movement, with world-renowned restaurants and chefs, along with wineries and craft breweries that produce more than 80 percent of craft beer and 70 percent of wine in Mexico. In addition to tourism and hospitality, its unique bi-national location with California and Arizona to the north present collaborative business opportunities on a global scale. From manufacturing and healthcare to aerospace and technology, Baja California is at the forefront of cross-border economic development. For more information, please visit bajacalifornia.travel. Visitors can also join the conversation on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/BajaCaliforniaTravelEng), Instagram (@bajacaliforniatraveleng), and Twitter (@bajatraveleng).

New Wines for the Jewish New Year

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Bayonne, NJ – There’s little time to catch your breath between summer and the High Holiday season this year. With Labor Day and Rosh Hashana sharing the same date on the calendar, it’s not too soon to start thinking about festive meals, gatherings with loved ones, and other traditions that go hand-in-hand with the fall Jewish holidays.

Fortunately, we’ve had another exceptional year for kosher wine production. That means there’s an excellent selection of exciting releases to choose from – and one less thing to worry about. They’re ready to serve now, so whether you’re planning to host a crowd or be a guest, you’re sure to find something deliciously suitable for the holiday table.

Wine expert Gabriel Geller, Director of PR and Manager of Wine Education for Kedem/Royal Wine, has recommendations for wines that offer quality and value across all price points.

Herzog Wine Cellars celebrates the new Jewish year with its first release of the Herzog Limited Edition Chalk Hill Chardonnay 2020 (MSRP: $60). This rich and complex white wine is the result of careful harvest planning and skillful winemaking, led by Head Winemaker Joe Hurliman. The 2020 harvest in California was marked by some of the worst wildfires the Golden State has ever known. However, thanks to Divine Providence the harvest for the Chalk Hill Chardonnay took place before the fires, and yielded fruit of the highest quality.

Geller is also enthusiastic about Herzog Special Reserve Méthode Champenoise Russian River NV (MSRP $60), Herzog’s first-ever high-end Champagne method sparkling wine, is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes grown in Sonoma’s Russian River area.

He also points to Château Malartic Lagravière Blanc 2019 (MSRP $100), the first kosher cuvée release by the Bordeaux estate. Malartic received elite Grand Cru Classé status for both its red and white wines in the 1959 Classification of Vins de Graves. Now owned by the Bonnie family, Malartic has produced several kosher cuvées of its red Grand Vin in collaboration with Royal Wine since 2003. Its sister property, Château Gazin Rocquencourt, started making kosher runs in 2015.

Another exciting release is Razi’el Syrah-Carignan 2018 (MSRP $65), says Geller. Razi’el wines scored 97 points by acclaimed wine critic James Suckling – the highest rating ever for Israeli wines. Meanwhile, Europe’s first fully kosher winery, Terra di Seta in Italy, received an unprecedented 97 points and a platinum medal from Decanter magazine for the Terra di Seta Chianti Classico Riserva 2016 (MSRP $35).

While many of this year’s newcomers are produced by classic, old-world methods, some intriguing surprises are in the mix. They include Nana Estate wines (MSRP $30-$50), grown and produced in Israel’s scorching, nutrient-poor Negev Desert. Nana earned widespread buzz even before their wines were available in the U.S.; with their innovative viticulture techniques, they’ve not only beaten the odds, but they’ve crafted a collection of distinctive and popular kosher wines.

Baron Herzog, the entry-level line of value wines from Herzog Wine Cellars retailing between $10-13, are now available with fresh, new labels. Baron Herzog wines were first launched in 1986, following the winery’s establishment in California in 1985. The elegant and classy packaging further emphasizes the care and attention the Herzog family crafts each and every wine they produce from top to bottom.  The Baron Herzog line includes an award-winning Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, a Rosé, White Zinfandel, Pinot Grigio, Old Vines Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a red blend called Aleph. Several of the wines are grown in the Herzog’s estate Prince Vineyard in Clarksburg CA, as well as from Paso Robles AVA.

Then there’s Bartenura Froscato cocktail pops (MSRP $25 per package of 12). Bartenura is no stranger to bending the rules. After introducing the wildly popular Moscato in blue cans last year, the Italian kosher producer has now released refreshing Moscato frozen wine cocktail pops. Perfect for the warmer high holiday season. 

About Royal Wine/Kedem

Founded in 1848, Royal Wine Corp. is owned and operated in the United States by the Herzog family, whose winemaking roots go back eight generations to its origin in Czechoslovakia.

Today, Royal Wine’s portfolio of domestic and international wines range from traditional wine producing regions of France, Italy and Spain, as well as Israel, New Zealand and Argentina.

Additionally, Royal Wine Corp.’s spirit and liqueur portfolio offers some of the most sought-after scotches, bourbons, tequilas and vodkas as well as hard to find specialty items such as flavored brandies and liqueurs.

The company owns and operates the Kedem Winery in upstate New York, as well as Herzog Wine Cellars in Oxnard, California, a state-of-the-art-facility featuring guided wine tours, a fully staffed modern tasting room, gift shop and catering facilities. Additionally, the winery houses the award-winning restaurant Tierra Sur, serving the finest, Mediterranean-inspired, contemporary Californian Cuisine. Follow Royal Wine Corp at @royalwinecorp and on FB https://www.facebook.com/RoyalWineCorp

Shibui Becomes Most Awarded Japanese Whisky to Launch in the United States

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The Woman-Owned Company Earns Record Number of Accolades in Nine Months

NEW YORK/PRNewswire/ — Shibui Whisky has become the most awarded Japanese whisky brand to launch in the United States, earning a record number of accolades in its first nine months with 15 medals and 19 scores of 90 or above from global spirits competitions and world-renowned experts.

Among Shibui’s nine initial range offerings, the Single Grain 10-Year-Old Virgin White Oak was certainly a highlight, earning a staggering 95 points from the 2021 International Wine and Spirit Competition and 95 points from the 2021 Ultimate Spirits Challenge, as well as recognition as a Chairman’s Trophy Finalist.

Part of IND Beverages, a woman-owned company founded by sisters Lauren and Rachel Simmons, Shibui launched in October with nine unique expressions aged up to 30 years. The sisters brought in Co-Owner and Head of Global Whisky Nicholas Pollacchi to lead Shibui to success.

“We are honored and delighted that Shibui whiskies have been so well received by some of the greatest aficionados and experts around the world, especially in such a short amount of time,” said Pollacchi. “We look forward to raising the bar so our customers can continue to raise a glass of award-winning whisky.”

Competing against 4,000 entrants from 86 countries at IWSC and similarly thousands of entrants from 52 countries at USC, Shibui is quickly making a name for itself in the spirits industry.

Highlights from International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC), Ultimate Spirits Challenge (USC), San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) and Whisky Advocate (WA):

Shibui Niigata Range
Grain Select – USC: 90 points, SFWSC: Silver Medal
Pure Malt – IWSC: 92 points
Pure Malt 10 YO – IWSC: 91 points, USC: 92 points, SFWSC: Gold Medal

Shibui Okinawa Range
Single Grain Small Batch 8 YO Sherry Cask – WA: 90 points
Single Grain 10 YO Bourbon Cask – IWSC: 92 points, USC: 94 points & Chairman’s Trophy Finalist
Single Grain 10 YO Virgin White Oak Cask – IWSC: 95 points, USC: 95 points & Chairman’s Trophy Finalist
Single Grain 15 YO Sherry Cask – IWSC: 92 points, USC: 92 points, WA: 92 points
Single Grain 18 YO Sherry Cask – USC: 91 points
Single Grain 30 YO Rare Cask Reserve – WA: 91 points

ABOUT SHIBUI
Shibui whiskies are crafted by multiple award-winning distilleries from two different regions of Japan, making their range of whiskies truly unique. Shibui World Blends showcase the art of Niigata Master Blenders who create exquisite marriages of flavor using multi-cask maturation. Shibui Single Grain whiskies are a reflection of the Japanese distilleries in Okinawa who distill the grains of the land and make whisky unlike any other.

Trailblazers in transparency, Shibui wants consumers to know exactly what is in the glass. Shibui shares details about the distilleries, grains, blends, fermentation, distillation and maturation, as well as the fact that all Shibui whiskies are 100% natural in color.

Ranging from World Blends to Single Grain Japanese whiskies aged up to 30 years, Shibui is priced from $49 to just over $1,000 creating an opportunity to try a Shibui whisky at every level.

Visit Shibui @drinkshibui on Instagram and www.shibuiwhisky.com.

De Négoce Named “Wine Company of the Year,” Receives 53 Medals

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NAPA VALLEY, Calif., /PRNewswire/ — De Négoce has been named “Wine Company of the Year” in the 18th Annual Critics Challenge International Wine & Spirits Competition. The company also received an unprecedented 53 medals, 35 of which were platinum and gold with 90 to 94-point scores for wines priced from $12 to $29.

“New company de Négoce, the brainchild of well-known negociant Cameron Hughes, is deserving of major kudos for delivering amazing value in bottlings from up and down the American West Coast and featuring famed appellations like Atlas Peak, Diamond Mountain District, Carneros and others,” said Rich Cook, director of Critics Challenge.

The platinum award winners were the OG N.41 2018 St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon ($29), OG N.89 2018 Walla Walla Cabernet Sauvignon ($18), and OG N.132 2018 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon ($25). Each received 94 points. Additionally, the winner of Best Cabernet Franc was de Négoce’s 2018 OG N.85 Cabernet Franc from Walla Walla Valley, while Best Petite Sirah went to their 2018 OG N.58 Petite Sirah from McDowell Valley. Both wines received gold medals and 91-point scores and are sold for $16 and $14, respectively.

Founded by wine critic Robert Whitley in 2003, Critics Challenge is one of the most important and respected wine and spirits competitions in the world. Entries are judged blind by noted wine and spirits journalists, bloggers and critics. With an unprecedented level of transparency, Critics Challenge publishes the comments and scores from the individual judges on the competition results page for all award-winning entries.

“We are thrilled to have received such accolades and high scores from this prestigious competition,” says Cameron Hughes, founder of de Négoce. “We want people to know that we are not selling discount wine. We are offering amazing value and access to high-end, award-winning luxury wines that would normally sell for 4 to 8 times the price. There is a big difference!”

Since launching last spring, de Négoce has shipped over 200 unique wines and well over 100,000 cases. More than 80 new wines have shipped in 2021 alone, with 80+ in the pipeline for the remainder of the year. For more information or to join the de Négoce mailing list, please visit deNegoce.com.

About de Négoce
Founded by Cameron Hughes, de Négoce offers the opportunity to pre-purchase ultra-premium wines from around the globe before they are bottled. Known in the trade as En Primeur or “futures,” buying wine prior to bottling allows for pricing at 60 to 80 percent less what you would pay under its original label. The platform also has an online bottle shop where customers can mix and match their own selections of ready-to-drink wines. For more information, please visit deNegoce.com.