Tasting St. Supery…again?

June 12, 2020 by evebushman

Haven’t been to St. Supery on Highway 29 in Napa for a while, not since we had a book signing there a few years back for one of the Wine Dogs books I had written an essay for. Last year I wrote about Chef Tod Kawachi, their creative in-house chef for Napa Valley Life Magazine. It’s a welcoming winery with a lovely tasting room and beautiful landscaping. Happy to return, virtually for a tasting of this trio:

2018 Sauvignon Blanc, Estate Grown and Bottled

$22 retail for the 2019 (2018 not available on winery website.) 13.5% alcohol.

Lots of lime, tangerine, white peach and a slight bit of cream on the nose, followed by flavors of limeade, lemon zest, fruit cocktail, some minerality and a high acid allowing for a medium length.

2018 Vertu

Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc

$30 retail, 13.5% alcohol

This may have been my favorite in the tasting. Similar to a white Bordeaux due to the varietals Semillon (sweet) and Sauvignon Blanc (dry) they chose to use. The wine had fresh notes of Meyer lemon, stone fruit, mown grass, wet stones and a bit of creamy Brie cheese on the nose. I tasted fresh citrus, Italian lemon soda, with a nice mild acidity, a mineral-filled long finish, balanced and with a perfectly round mouthfeel.

2018 Rose, Estate Grown and Bottled

Grape unknown

$20 retail for the 2019 (2018 not available on winery website.) 13.5% alcohol

Watermelon in color, I noted raspberry, crushed strawberry, pear and cold wet stones on the nose. In the mouth I got strawberry soda, bruised yellow apple, a mild acidity and pleasant mouthfeel in a medium length finish.

About St. Supery

St. Supéry Estate Vineyards and Winery produces 100% estate grown, certified Napa Green wines, focusing on sauvignon blanc, cabernet sauvignon, and additional red Bordeaux varietals.

Located in the renowned Rutherford growing region at the heart of Napa Valley, the winery combines French château tradition with Napa Valley terroir – producing the highest quality estate wines and providing exceptional experiences to all guests.

Guests and their well-behaved dogs are welcome 10:00am – 5:00pm, except on a few major holidays. Reservations are preferred.

8440 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA 94573. Winery Phone: 707.302.3488 https://stsupery.com https://www.facebook.com/stsupery/

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.

Winesellers, Ltd. Releases Tiamo Organic Dry Wine Spritzers

June 3, 2020 by evebushman

CHICAGO (PRWEB) – Award-winning importer Winesellers, Ltd. introduces two new additions to their Tiamo Organic range from Italy – Tiamo Organic Dry Rose and Dry White Wine Spritzers in 250ml cans; just in time for the kickoff of Summer. The organic dry wine spritzers are both low alcohol (5 percent ABV) and low calorie (90 per can), crafted for the modern wine consumer looking to lead a balanced and healthier lifestyle. As we say, #LiveLifeLoveLifeTiamoLife.

Tiamo wine spritzers are created with premium wine made from organic grapes from the best growers in Italy, then blended with sparkling water and a touch of organic cane sugar (2g/can and 3g/can in the White and Rose, respectively). These new Tiamo Spritzers are not only organic, low alcohol and low calorie; they are vegan-friendly, gluten-free and contain no artificial flavors or sweeteners. The dry style and absence of unnecessary flavors makes these spritzers the ideal choice for consumers looking for a no-frills, mindful beverage that also tastes like wine! They are refreshing and crisp wine-based cocktails with a bit of fizz, a smart alternative for health-conscious drinkers.

Jordan Sager, Co-President of Winesellers, explains, “Consumers are becoming more selective by seeking moderation, but also authenticity with their beverage choices. Tiamo has always been a highly innovative and responsible brand with a history of producing top organic certified wines and offering them in sustainable, alternative packaging. These organic dry-style wine spritzers represent the next phase in that development to cater to the evolving demand within this category.”

Tiamo Organic Spritzers will be available nationally starting early May in 4-packs of 250ml cans, with a targeted national retail price of $14.99. The new canned spritzers will join Tiamo 375ml still wine cans currently available in national distribution.

ABOUT TIAMO ORGANIC
Tiamo, which simply means “I Love You” in Italian, is a line of wines, made with organic grapes that represent top quality wines from the best growers in their respective regions. The selection includes a Prosecco that is sourced from vineyards near the village of Valdobbiadene, a crisp but fruit forward Pinot Grigio that comes from vineyards near Treviso in the Veneto region, a beautifully soft Chianti from Montespertoli, which lies in the heart of the Tuscan countryside and a full bodied and robust Barbera from Lombardy. All the Tiamo wines are sourced by the owners of Tiamo, Melvyn & Jane Master, their son Charlie Master and the Sager family.

ABOUT WINESELLERS, LTD.
Founded in 1978 by Yale Sager, Winesellers, Ltd. is a second generation, family-owned and globally recognized importer, and marketer of fine wines to the U.S. market. The company’s portfolio represents the finest quality of wines in their respective price category and has widespread distribution in all 50 U.S. states. The Winesellers, Ltd. portfolio includes producers and brands from Argentina, France, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, and other countries worldwide.

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

Del Mar Wine Seltzer Elevates Category With Wine-Based Hard Seltzer Offering

May 27, 2020 by evebushman

ST. HELENA, Calif./PRNewswire/ — Del Mar Wine Seltzer today announced its entry into the wildly popular $1 billion hard seltzer category with a unique wine-based offering made in Napa Valley from premium California grapes. Black Cherry, Grapefruit, White Peach and Watermelon flavors are debuting in 355mL cans sold in four-packs for $8.99. The 4 percent ABV offering is now shipping nationally from the Trinchero Family Estates wine & spirits portfolio.

Photos by Dawn Heumann

“As a family-owned Napa Valley winery with a legacy of giving consumers what they want, we made the decision to enter the space with a light, refreshing and sophisticated wine-based seltzer to challenge malt-based seltzers within the category,” said Dave Derby, senior vice president marketing for Trinchero Family Estates. “We are confident that consumers will appreciate our decision to leverage our 72 years of winemaking experience to create a grape-based seltzer made from transparent ingredients that they know and love.”

With simple ingredients, natural flavors and no added sugar at 95 calories per can, Del Mar Wine Seltzer was designed with wellness in mind. Black Cherry – made from California white wine – incorporates a hint of lavender in the blend. Grapefruit – made from California Rosé wine – fittingly delivers a hint of rose. White Peach – made from California white wine – has a hint of honeysuckle. And Watermelon – made from California Rosé wine – offers a hint of mint. Each of the four refreshing flavors captures the essence of delicious fruit, with a touch of natural sweetness that wine – not added sugar – provides.

Like its namesake oceanfront city, Del Mar Wine Seltzer evokes a beachside state-of-mind. Popping the top of Del Mar brings memories of sun on your shoulders, friends by your side and toes in the sand. Kick off your spring, bring on your summer and reach for the beach with Del Mar – an all-new crisp and refreshing seltzer made from premium California grapes and natural flavors that you can trust.

About Del Mar Wine Seltzer

Reach for the beach and live life in the sunshine with Del Mar Wine Seltzer, a 95-calorie hard seltzer with a beachside state-of-mind. With refreshing flavors from Black Cherry and Grapefruit to White Peach and Watermelon, Del Mar brings memories to mind of friends by your side and your toes in the sand. Like its beachfront city namesake, Del Mar knows life by the ocean. This light-as-sea-breeze seltzer brings you to the beach and the good times in the sunshine that it provides. After all, Del Mar is more than a destination. It’s a state of mind. For more information, visit www.delmarwineseltzer.com.

Social Media
Instagram: @DelMarWineSeltzer
Facebook: @DelMarWineSeltzer

Being An Armchair Wine Writer Again, and Focusing on Local Wineries to Support

May 1, 2020 by evebushman

I think it was the book Accidental Tourist where I first I heard the phrase “armchair writer” to describe the main character who was a travel writer that wrote from home. For me the phrase was apropos because when my daughter was under 18 I really didn’t want to leave her with a sitter to go out to a wine event, let alone a weekend or longer. Now with the COVID-19 and zero events to cover and zero travel plans, it’s time to dust off the chair and write about wine like I used to – more about supporting the wine industry itself and not about the events that drive it.

For my first, in what I hope will be a minimal series of armchair articles, I will focus on local wineries and what we can do to support them at this time. I sent emails to some of the wineries near me (which are also near to local readers) to ask how we can support them at this time, their current varietals available (and how we can get them) and any specials. Also, look for most of these wineries at the upcoming Vine 2 Wine 2 GO benefitting Circle of Hope set for May 30.

Photo from “Romancing The Vine” article in SCV Elite Magazine. Me and Eddie, maybe just short of 10 years ago.

Pulchella Winery

The winery is currently offering bottle sales for pick-up via the tasting room in Newhall, Fridays from 4pm-7pm and Saturdays from 1pm-4pm (call ahead, email orders, or walk ups welcome). Bottles can also be purchased via the website for shipment directly to your home.

They are happy to announce a few “stimulus packages” during this current “stay-at-home” time, which include: 20% off 6+ bottles (30% for members), 30% off 12+ bottles (40% for members), plus cases of 2014 Distinguished red blend are $150+ tax. They are also offering 50% off shipping costs via the website for all orders being shipped within CA.

Email customerservice@pulchellawinery.com for questions or orders, go to the website, or call the tasting room at 661-799-9463 to place an order. Feel free to leave a message with your order if you’re not calling during the limited hours above.

Golden Star Vineyards

Golden Star Vineyards is an Estate Vineyard and Winery in Los Angeles County with Estate bottled Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec; and locally sourced Viognier, Chardonnay, Syrah and Purple Haze. They are currently open Sat/Sun 12-5 pm for VINO2GO at the winery in Littlerock, CA with contactless curbside pickup, as well as free delivery within the greater Antelope Valley area (3 bottle minimum). Wine Club members get 20% off all wines and non-Wine Club get 15% off 3 bottle minimum. They are also offering 50% Off shipping in CA with a 3 bottle minimum. Please go to their wine store of current releases at:

https://goldenstarvineyards.orderport.net/wines/CurrentReleases or call 661-713-6660.

Hoi Polloi and Pagter Brothers, of the Double Trouble Wine Room

The Double Trouble Wine Room, featuring the wines of the Pagter Brothers and Hoi Polloi Wineries, is open for bottle sales Thursday and Friday 4 to 7 pm and Saturday and Sunday 2 – 5 pm. They sanitize every bottle before delivering. Guests can pick wines up inside at a socially approved distance or they’ll deliver curbside to your car. They will also deliver to your home (in the SCV area) with the purchase of 6 bottles or more. For case sales they will extend an additional 10% off on top of their usual discount. “If you are in need of a last minute bottle when we’re not usually open just email us and we can zip over and meet you.” They are also working on a Zoom concert and a Zoom tasting, “Not tasting Zoom, but tasting our wines with the winemakers giving tasting notes, more to follow. If you’re not receiving our emails, please send your email to Scott@PagterBros.com or DKMinnick@mac.com”

Parhelion Cellars

Parhelion Cellars is a small family owned winery in Santa Clarita. They have been dedicated to making outstanding wine since 2017, and carry a wide variety of wines: a Cabernet from the Mount Veeder region of Napa, a Zinfandel from Paso Robles, and a single vineyard Sparkling rosé from Clement Hills in northern California. These are just three of the outstanding wines they offer.

Please visit their website at parhelioncellars.com, where they are currently offering a 30% off discount by using coupon code F&F on all our products. They also always offer FREE non-contact delivery to LA County. After you’ve selected the wines that you would like, choose “in person pick up” and make sure you share your phone number. The winery will then contact you and schedule a date and time that is perfect for your delivery. You can also reach them by phone: 661-644-9478.

Entourage Two Papas Wine

Entourage Two Papas Wine is a boutique winery based in Valencia, specializing in Rhône varietals. Each wine is produced with meticulous care while allowing the grapes to fully express their full flavor potential. Their grapes are sourced from the two top Rhône varietal vineyards in Santa Barbara County, Thompson and Saarloos Vineyards.The current inventory includes: 2017 Saarloos Grenache ( $20- 90 pt WS), 2018 Saarloos Grenache ($30), 2017 Thompson Grenache ($35- 90 pt WS), 2018 Thompson Grenache ($37), 2017 Thompson Syrah ($35- 90 pt WS), 2018 Thompson Syrah ($37)
2018 Thompson GSM ($37), 2018 Thompson Grenache Blanc ($27) and 2019 Thompson Stainless Steel Chardonnay.

“Until July 1st we are offering discounts of 10% off our normal prices while ordering 3 or more bottles. Order a mixed case and the discount will go to 15%. Current and new members will receive a discount of 20%. As always, all orders within 30 miles will be delivered to your front porch, much like the milkman of the 60’s. Check us out at Entourage Two Papas Wine or call me (winemaker Rick Pratt) direct at (323) 974-7021.”

Coruce Vineyards and Winery Tasting Room

Located at 1055 West Columbia Way (Avenue M) in Lancaster, Coruce proudly features award winning wines of the Antelope Valley and Los Angeles County. They offer a variety of white and red blends as well as several vintages of single varietals like Zins, Viogniers, Chardonnays and “some lip smackin’ Syrahs.” They currently have a “screaming deal on some delicious clearance wines.” For the immediate future all purchases at their website (www.corucevineyardsandwinery.com) will be shipped for a flat $10 fee. They are open for purchases through pick up or delivery of bottles or cases. Hours are 1 PM to 7PM Thursday, Friday, and Saturday and 1PM to 6PM on Sunday. Call ahead at 661-494-8877 and “we’ll have everything ready for you to minimize contact time and number of people present at any one time.”

Byron Blatty

Byron Blatty Wines, which features locally grown, Los Angeles wines, is currently offering free, contactless delivery on all orders in the Los Angeles area, and are running several “Stay at Home Specials” which include 3 bottle packs of select wines for $99 + tax. (30% off). “We are also holding weekly tastings on Zoom every Friday, which are free to attend.” https://purchase.byronblatty.com/stay-at-home

What We’re Drinking During Coronavirus

April 17, 2020 by evebushman

Haven’t written about this yet, but it would appear that the subject won’t wait. Over the last few weeks, and possibly many more to come, our new normal has been to stay at home as it’s safer at home. While we’ve been making a small dent in our wine cellar, and an even bigger dent in our liquor cabinet, it’s made me wonder what others are doing. So I reached out to pals on social media to find out what they’ve been enjoying at home now more than ever before. (Note: Those of my friends in the industry are noted as such.)

Me, drinking and social distancing.

Joe W. “Much like you, I’ve gotten a lot of wine samples sent for review. Rose and sparkling have been personal preferences. Keep it light during these heavy times. Somehow focusing on making a variety of appetizers to eat instead of bigger meals.” (Industry)

Elana H. “We have been putting a dent in our wine cellar and liquor cabinet as well! Margaritas w/fresh squeezed Meyer lemons, Grand Marnier and tequila over ice with a salted rim. Then wine with dinner. Had a delicious 2014 Terra De Promissio Vineyard Pinot Noir from Whetstone Wine Cellars last night. During the day we have been sending out our wines to people all over the country and hosting tastings through Zoom. https://prioritywinepass.com/prime-solum-napa-valley-virtual-wine-tasting/

Michelene L. “Southern sweet tea and I have no idea why.”

Brenda R., “All the wine and spirit stores in PA have been closed since March 16. Thank God for CA wineries. Ordered some (and they) came in two days. Will have to order more.

Judi L. “Consciously unboozing limiting to, at the most, a glass of wine (whatever’s around) or one cocktail or a shot of mezcal/whiskey/rye. Oh yeah…beer…I love booze but actually not a big drinker. I’m an excellent sniffer and sipper.” (Industry)

Nelson L. “Sales and cheap shipping.”

Michael D. “We went through some great whites early on from Williams Selyem and Guy Farge that paired really well with the cheeses that we got from Lucques. Late night has been about Armagnac and Angel’s Envy Rye. I’ve also recently bottled a Brut IPA and am getting ready to brew a Belgian Tripel…(drinking) a wee bit more (than usual).

Karen B. “Finishing up the last of my 2018 Rosés to make room for the 2019s. Paul Lato 2018 in my glass right now! I was buying at cost, so helluva deal. I’m actually drinking less because we’re open just 3 days a week now and there is no social drinking or tasting with friends.” (Industry)

Nancy F. “I’m either vodka with sparkling soda, gin or vodka martini, or Negroni which are delicious and way too easy to drink! Or it’s wine. Like to switch it out as a I love all. However, the last 2 nights I started out with a fresh orange and lime juice margarita on the rocks with a salt rim…(And you may not have known that) I was a bartender for many years.

Taylor K. “Sales from local restaurants!”

Rick P. “This could be our only salvation; people are drinking all stockpiled wine. Hopefully we will see a buying surge when it’s all over. Otherwise say goodbye to a lot of small wineries.” (Industry)

Jennifer S., “Small dent in the wine cellar and a VERY large dent in the liquor cabinet. Need more scotch, whiskey and vodka. Thank goodness the liquor store is essential.”

Annette S., “Making a definite dent in the wine cellar.” (Industry)

Michael F. “Wine… Wine… & Oh Yeah; WINE! Along with some craft beers and a few fine spirits!” (Industry)

Dan C. “Old Fashioned!”

For me: Local deals from local and Paso wineries including Byron Blatty, Parhelion Cellars, Hoi Polloi, Pagter Brothers, Opolo, Thacher Winery, Hammersky…deals on wine and cocktails-to-go from The Press Room, Egg Plantation, Wolf Creek Brewery and Restaurant, Route 66 Classic Grill, Salt Creek Grille, Dario’s…Zoom tastings with our Napa friends…curbside pick-ups, free shipping and one dollar shipping incentives also. It’s all good during a very trying time.

Vintage Eve Circa 5/2017: Making the Most of Every Day With Day Owl Rose

March 17, 2020 by evebushman

A very cute box arrived at my UPS office for pick up – yes that’s how people like me do it that get a lot of wine shipped for review – with an adorable owl on pictured on the outside, two pairs of shiny sunglasses and a rosé wine, with the same owl etched on the bottle, on the inside. Quite a marketing investment in my eyes, so I looked forward to sampling this “Day Owl” Rosé.

Photo from AllEvents.In

We are launching a new wine in select markets (CA, FL, IL, NY and TX) …The wine is called Day Owl and is named for the person who makes the most out of every day. It’s a unique Rose in that it’s made with Barbera, an Italian varietal that is meant to be enjoyed now. Fresh and lively, it’s a modern California Rose that is sure to be a hit this summer. And priced at $15, it falls right within that sweet spot.

2016 Day Owl California Rosé

Tasting Notes

A lovely color of dark peach, the kind that has a splash of red across all that fuzz. Aromas included strawberry, cranberry, pink grapefruit and white to green peppercorn. On the mouth the fruit flavors paled a bit, with lingering grapefruit alone, some florals and a low to medium acid. 87 Eve pts.

From the Website

INTRODUCING NEW DAY OWL ROSÉ

Day sippers, day trippers—this one’s for you. Seize this crisp, fruit forward California Rosé by the bottle and embark on the bright day ahead. Nighttime’s for catching Z’s. The day belongs to Rosé.

BARBERA ROSÉ

Emboldened by vivacious dark cherry, dried strawberry, plum, lavender, and vanilla, Barbera is akin to Nebbiolo’s spunky, scandalous little sister. Like the best things in life, this Italian varietal is meant to be enjoyed young (aka now), so seize the moment. Bright, citrusy, and effortlessly cool, this versatile wine pairs perfectly with whatever the day throws at it.

WINEMAKING

Our winemakers aren’t simply interested in crafting sophisticated, world class wines—they want each bottle to shine with passion and heart. Mark Rasmussen is a leading California winemaker with more than 35 years of winemaking experience; he crafts fine wines that garner prestigious awards (and win over the crowd at your next dinner party). Kryss Speegle is a globe trotting winemaker who’s crafted acclaimed wines in Napa, Germany, and New Zealand and taught courses at wine academies near and far. Together they produced Day Owl, a rosé dedicated to living life to the fullest, seizing each day—and most importantly—savoring the moment.

http://www.dayowlwines.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, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Grown in Los Angeles: Eve Gets A Taste of LA Wine

March 13, 2020 by evebushman

What a treat! Tasting from only four wineries – that specialize in making wine from LA County grapes! I knew three of the four already from past tastings, but this time it was a true focus on what they can do as we compared each. Below is the invite, wine list (hyperlinks go to their Facebook pages) and my notes. Photos are here.

Jasper Dickson at the helm of his winery. (Co-owner Amy Luftig Viste not pictured.)

Invitation

Come join The Los Angeles Vintner’s Association at Angeleno Wine Company …for an extraordinary tasting of locally grown, Los Angeles wine! We’ve gathered four amazing local wineries, and assembled a line-up of 10+ incredible wines, all grown right here in Los Angeles County. Come meet the winemakers, and discover the true potential of local wine as you taste your way through this diverse collection of styles, single varietals, and blends.

Participating wineries include: Angeleno Wine Company, Acri Wine Co, Byron Blatty Wines, and Cavaletti Vineyards.

Acri Wine Company – This was a new winery for me to try. All were barrel samples but showed great fruit and potential. Especially the 2019 Sangiovese, also from the Antelope Valley. My husband liked the depth in the 2018 Syrah and likewise thought it would cellar nicely.

2018 Syrah, Antelope Valley

2019 Zinfandel Barrel Sample, Antelope Valley

2019 Sangiovese, Antelope Valley.

Angeleno Wine Company – Our host winery for the event, about 60 minutes away and definitely worth a visit. Besides the list below I also snagged a sample of their chilled orange wine – made orange by skin contact with these Spanish/Portuguese grapes I was unfamiliar with: Treixadura, Godello and Loureiro. These same varietals were also in the White Field Blend I favored, with the addition of Albariño.

2017 White Field Blend, Sierra Pelona Valley

2018 Bike Path Red (also served a little chilled, blend of Tempranillo and Grenache) Sierra Pelona Valley

2017 Grenache, Sierra Pelona Valley (This is from the Alonso Family Vineyards. They also make their own label, and by “they” I mean Juan Alonso. He has made his own wine for many years, and is the longtime owner of Le Chene.)

Byron Blatty Wines – Mark Blatty was there charming the guests, as usual, suffice it to say he had the busiest table. My favorite wine in his lineup was the 2016 Evenfall Red (I jokingly call it my namesake!) blend of Tempranillo and Petite Sirah. His Syrah and Malbec garnered a lot of attention, and an extra special pour of his soon-to-be released proprietary red – only 23 cases – of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Petit Verdot, was powerful! Stay tuned for that release. I predict this to be my next favorite from Byron Blatty.

2016 Agenda Syrah, Los Angeles County

2016 Evenfall Red, Los Angeles County

2017 Pragmatic Malbec, Los Angeles County

Cavaletti Vineyards – With a tasting room in nearby Moorpark, this is a winery to visit. Besides the wines listed below owner/winemaker Patrick Kelley also shared a 2018 Nebbiolo. I enjoyed them all, with special nods to the Cab and Nebbiolo, really fine fruit that will develop with a little more aging. I bought two of his Rose, a blend of Tempranillo and Grenache, as it was very good and the price was only about $25 per bottle.

2018 109 Mile Rosé, Los Angeles County

2018 Swayze (not Patrick) Grenache, Antelope Valley

2018 Whispering Bells Cabernet Sauvignon, Malibu Coast

Angeleno Wine Company is located at 1646 North Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012.

Discovering Folded Hills Winery – Plus Winemaker Angela Osborne

February 28, 2020 by evebushman

Once again the #LAWineWriters met up at Napa Valley Grille in Westwood to have a wine paired luncheon. This time organizer and fellow writer Cori Solomon invited us to taste through some new Rhone wines – Grenache predominant – from a winery in the Santa Ynez AVA: Folded Hills Winery Farmstead Ranch.

We were greeted by the owner, Kim Busch, and general manager Tymari Lore on the patio of the restaurant. There were no less than nine wines for us to try, along with a six course meal created by Chef Ben Diaz. (See photos here.)

What we learned about the winery:

The vineyards are situated further south than any other vineyards in the Santa Ynez AVA and provide for cooler climate wines.
The winemaker, Angela Osborne, is also known for her A Tribute to Grace wines.
Their wine club is called “The Fold” and is very event-centered.
If you like French Rhônes, many of which are lower in alcohol than the American version, know that the Folded Hills wines we tried ranged from low to mid-range at 12.10% alcohol to 14.5%, with most hovering at about 13%.
They launched in April 2017 and you can taste the wines in their Montecito tasting room or at the estate in Gaviota.
This is a small production winery, with 5,500-6,500 case production, and they tend to “sell out fast.” Owner Kim Busch added, “Yes we do sell out of most our wines, all but 2 of which are purposely higher production.”
If you visit the winery you will not only see vineyards but also fruit trees and farm animals.

According to their brochure the wines “have no residual sugar and one gram or less of carbs, no commercial additives, minimal sulfur, only native yeast, are grown organically following the biodynamic calendar, made from grapes that are 95% estate grown, hand harvested using sustainable practices in the vineyard, are vegan, and crafted consciously to be lower in alcohol…” as well as being family owned.

Below are my tasting notes on the wines and food pairings:

ONE

Beet Tartare: Yuzu, hazelnut chimichurri, radish, nasturtium, country bread.

2018 Lilly Rose Grenache: 100% Folded Hills Grenache. Salmon in color, aromas and flavors of pink grapefruit, apple, lemon, graphite. Loved the beets and the Rose cooled down the heat of this dish.

TWO

The Nomad Flatbread: Salmon belly, crème fraiche, escabeche, radish, chervil.

2018 August White: 68% Folded Hills Grenache Blanc, 32% Area 51 Roussanne. White flowers, pears in light syrup, concrete, mild acidity. I loved the salmon – and had seconds – with this white Rhone.

THREE

Apple and Brie Flatbread: Granny Smith, picked red onion, triple crème brie, prosciutto, heirloom tomato velouté.

2018 Estate White Santa Ynez Valley: 50% Grenache Blanc, 25% Marsanne, 25% Clarette Blanche. Apple, peach, butter, toasted oak, crisp and clean mouthfeel, and my favorite white in the tasting. Loved the apple notes in the wine with the apples in the flatbread.

FOUR

Mary’s Free-Range Chicken Wings: Thai passion fruit chili, petite frisee, Heirloom radish, cilantro.

2017 August Red: 67% Grenache, 33% Syrah. Very perfumy aromatics, velvety red fruit, black cherries, big and tannic – especially when compared to the other red wines. My fellow writers oohed and awed over the pairing; it was quite nice with the spices on the chicken.

FIVE

Yellowfin Tuna: bubu arare, porcini crema, truffle ponzu, maitake.

2017 Cluster Grenache: Whole cluster Grenache, 100% Folded Hills. Cherry cola, green peppercorn and a nice easy drinker.

2017 Estate Grenache: 100% Folded Hills Grenache. Cherry liqueur, brambles, minty and dry.

2017 Grant Grenache: 92% Grenache, 8% Syrah. Raspberry, bright, oak and tannic.

All were really nice with the tuna, and as it was served cold it was a perfect picnic as we were outdoors on a cool day with low alcohol wines. These last two Grenache were my favorites of the reds.

SIX

Charred Te Mana Lamb: honey nut squash, baby kale, pine nut relish, au poivre.

Twice Fried Brussels Sprouts: Balsamic, parmigiano reggiano, togarashi, shaved bonito.

2017 Stolpman Syrah Ballard Canyon: 100% Stolpman Syrah. Strawberry, richly oaked, cola, tart.

2016 G.S.M.: 80% Folded Hills Vineyard, 20% Thompson Vineyard. 40% Grenache, 40% Syrah, 20% Mourvedre. Red berries, ash, long finish.

Both wines were very nice with the lamb and Brussels Sprouts, if I could have eaten more I would have!

https://foldedhills.com/

https://www.facebook.com/foldedhills/

https://napavalleygrille.com/

https://www.facebook.com/NapaValleyGrilleWestwood/

Fall In Love = Fontanafredda Barolo + Spago Beverly Hills

February 14, 2020 by evebushman

So this is what happened: along with other group members of #LaWineWriters I was invited to Spago Beverly Hills “for a tasting and luncheon hosted by esteemed Barolo producer Fontanafredda. Lead winemaker Giorgio Lavagna will take us through a tasting of Fontanafredda’s current Barolo releases, as well as a selection of special library gems going back 20+ years. The culinary team at Spago will design a menu to match the wines…”

Fontanafredda, a name I knew for Barolo, so I was more than happy to taste.

The wine list, priced between $54 and $165 per bottle, started with a taste of the 2012 Alta Langa DOCG Contessa Rosa Rose, made of 80% Pinot Nero, 20% Chardonnay and a little bit of Barolo vintage 1967, making it a remarkable sparkling. We were off to an exciting start.

The rest of the wines were made with Nebbiolo grape, starting with a 2015 Barolo DOCG Del Comune Di Serralunga D’Alba that is credited as “the first single-village Barolo ever produced, since 1988.” Then the 2013 Barolo DOCG Fontanafredda from soil that is known for its “clayey marls alternated with layers of sand.” And the 2011 Barolo DOCG Vigna La Rosa was from “one of the most prestigious vineyards of the estate.”

Then we moved onto some older vintages beginning with a 1996 Barolo DOCG Vigna La Rosa that was my favorite in the tasting, most likely due to how well it aged – indicative of most well-made Barolo. The pricing on this one was not available.

Next up was the 2010 Barolo Riserva made with “a more modern artistic style” that “reflect the values of Fontanafredda, solid and clear since 1858.” Then we had a 2000 Barolo Riserva with a picturesque label that “takes inspiration from the French Expressionism” – and it was my second favorite wine in the tasting. An additional two years of aging is standard for the Riservas.

For photos and further comment on this tasting this is the link to my public social media post.

A note on the menu

Although the menu was whisked away by the servers so I couldn’t save it for posterity, the pairing was lovely and the photos are here. We started with some yummy appetizers that weren’t listed on the menu, one was a smoked salmon on toast and one other I recall was a bacon filled mini popover. Enjoyed these with the sparkling Rose wine. Next up was a creamy mushroom and leek risotto with Pecorino Romano cheese, a choice between a Seared Scottish Salmon and Grilled Cote de Boeuf, and finally the most flavorful Flora Chevre cheese you can imagine. The food paired well with both the new and older vintage Barolo.

About Fontanafredda

The 250-acre Fontanafredda property in Serralunga d’Alba, a cru site of Barolo, is the single largest contiguous wine estate in the Langhe and includes 247 acres of vineyards, 30 acres of native woodland and 10 acres on which the cellars and village buildings lie. Fontanafredda’s vineyards are in the municipalities of Serralunga d’Alba, Diano d’Alba, Barolo, Dogliani, Farigliano, Alba, Rodello, and Murinsengo, at altitudes between 200 – 400m.

The history of Fontanafredda is a noble one. It began in 1858 after the unification of Italy, when the country’s first king, Vittorio Emanuele II, purchased this beautiful estate in Piedmont’s Langhe region. Here he started producing wine from local varieties, Dolcetto, Barbera and Nebbiolo, which later developed into a commercial business under the direction of the King’s son, Count Mirafiori. Fontanafredda released their first Nebbiolo labeled as Barolo with the 1878 vintage. Since 2008, Fontanafredda has been owned by visionary businessman and Piedmont native, Oscar Farinetti (co-owner of Eataly), who has brought new life to one of Italy’s most heralded properties.

https://www.facebook.com/fontanafreddawines/

http://www.fontanafredda.it/site/en/home_en/

Vintage Eve March 2017: The Rosé of Tannat, A First for Pulchella Winery

February 11, 2020 by evebushman

Well of course I coaxed local winemaker Steve Lemley from Pulchella Winery into letting me taste their – co-winemaker Nate Hasper definitely had his hand on this one – first ever 100% ROSE OF TANNAT that had YET TO BE RELEASED just so I could get your taste buds watering. It may be in bottle, it may even be in the tasting room before their ever-popular Viognier runs out, so pay attention:

Pulchella Rosé of Tannat

Bella Collina Vineyard, Adelaide District, Paso Robles

Bottled by Pulchella Winery, Santa Clarita

15.5% alcohol

The back label reads:

Some may question her nature, but are ultimately seduced by attraction. Away from the pack she moves, forging a new path.

Now, that’s a hell of a teaser. Time to taste!

Tasting

Compared to the color of the bright spring tulips I placed the wine bottle next to, I’d have to begin by saying the wine was the color of ripe strawberries with a touch of red peach fuzz. And while some Rosé wine can go anywhere from pale peach to pink, when I see one this deeper color, a rarity, I know I’m in for a treat.

Of the aroma, which I conferred with my husband on, we got raspberry, strawberry, peach and something that reminded me of rain-washed pavement.

The taste would be a favorite among Francophiles with mild acidity and delicate fruit that included that strawberry, of course, as well as the same raspberry we found on the nose, stewed red fruits, white pepper and mineral elements.

As we thoughtfully sipped the wine, on our front porch one of those hot evenings we enjoyed this past March, we thought how the colors of one of those red glowing sunsets would compare with our wine. We also thought, as we grew hungry for dinner, how nice the wine would pair with hard cheeses or a Margherita Pizza topped with fresh tomato sauce and buffalo mozzarella cheese.

Current Releases

As this wine may not be available in a widespread release right away this is what is currently available:

2013 Racket

Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tannat

Adelaida District, Paso Robles

2013 Red, White and Blue

Field Blend/ Co-Fermented.

El Pomar District, Paso Robles

2014 Awakening

Tannat, Petite Sirah

Paso Robles.

2014 Block 6 Reserve

100% Syrah

La Vista Vineyard, Adelaida District, Paso Robles

(Club members only)

2015 City Slicker

Zinfandel, Petite Sirah

Paso Robles

2015 Decorus

100% Syrah

Pipestone Vineyard, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles

2015 Mercenary

100% Zinfandel

Paso Robles

2016 Drifter

100% Viognier

Terra Mia Vineyard, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles

Of their 2016 vintages the winemakers said, “The #2016vintage is beautiful: heavily extracted, intense and well structured. We are stoked to show these wines off next year! #WorthTheWait”

The Tasting Room is located at 24261 Main Street, Newhall (old downtown historical district), 91321. They are open Thursday through Saturday from 5pm to 10pm and Sundays 12pm to 5pm. Tasting is free for members! Hours sometimes vary, they are closed on major holidays, so keep an eye on their social media for updates or call them at 661-799-WINE. You can bring in your own food or order from nearby restaurants, there is no kitchen at the tasting room. (Reserve as spot on their patio or in the bar if you have a large party of 8 or more, or want to book a private event.)

https://www.facebook.com/pulchellaWinery/

https://www.instagram.com/pulchellawinery/

http://www.pulchellawinery.com/

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