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.

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

The Night Is Bright At The Moon Bar At Lunetta: Santa Monica’s Stellar New Cocktail Bar Offers Evening Oasis For Thirst-Quenching Cocktails & Cool Coastal Ambiance!

August 13, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Santa Monica, CA – After a fun day of surf and sun, when the tide begins to rise and the moon makes its nightly arch, The Moon Bar at Lunetta opens its doors and welcomes guests to partake in an evening of progressive, chef-driven elevated New Californian Cuisine and masterfully Handcrafted Cocktails. Presented by Chef Raphael Lunetta and the Lunetta Team, The Moon Bar is coquettishly tucked inside Lunetta Dining, capturing the atmospheric California coast quiescence with the approachability of an evening neighborhood cocktail bar that welcomes guests from all over Greater Los Angeles!

Photo credit – acuna-hansen

Helming The Moon Bar beverage program is Beverage Director & Sommelier Kristine Bocchino, who contributes her expertise in food and wine to quarterly publication EdibleLA, Westlake Magazine, and has most recently served as a judge in Italy for the Cocktail & Bartending Competition at the Florence Cocktail Week 2018. Describing her approach to the House Libations, Bocchino says, “The cocktails are heavily influenced by Chef Raphael Lunetta’s menu, particularly his incorporation of produce from the Farmers Market.” Fortuitously, there is no need to vacate the alluring ambience of The Moon Bar once guests begin feeling peckish as the full menu from Lunetta Dining is always available.

Vodka + Gin employs the use of clear spirits to bring guests three light and revivifying cocktails beginning with the cheekily named Spicy Like a Sleepover, undoubtedly the star cocktail of the menu, and prepared with St. George Green Chili vodka, Becherovka, coconut cream, lemongrass, ginger, and lime; the East Side to the West Side featuring Fords Gin, cucumber, mint, lime, orgeat, and Angostura Bitters, and the Honey Ryder made with London Dry Gin, pamplemousse, lemon and bubbles. Creamy with a hint of spice, the Spirits from South of the Border sizzle things up with Tequila + Mezcal based cocktails such as the Mariposa Calor comprised of Espadin mezcal, Amaro Nonino Aperol, lime, Firewater bitters, or get a little pep in your step with the Tired but Wired featuring blanco tequila, Rhum Agricole, housemade chamomile-turmeric syrup, coconut cream, Blackstrap Bitters, and lime. What restaurant by the beach would be complete without a couple of Rum libations, starting with a creative twist on a beachy classic, the Oaxacan Mai Tai, comprised Plantation Pineapple Rum, mezcal, lime, Dry Curacao, orgeat, and Angostura bitters. Hang ten and bottoms up to the Gnarly Surfer, a mixture of Rhum Agricole, pineapple gomme, lime, Blackstrap Bitters, and vegan egg white. Three liquid amber cocktails await Whiskey enthusiasts, starting with the Salted Butter, featuring Japanese whisky, Cocchi di Torino, Suze, Italicus, and grapefruit bitters, while Bocchino breathes new life into two quintessential mixed drinks, first with the Pimms Cup 2420, with Buffalo Trace, lemon, honey peach bitters, and Pimms, and lastly, make no mistake this is Not Your Nonna’s Negroni, comprised of rye, Mr. Black Cold Brew, Cappelletti, and Cocchi di Torino.

If Wine is your pleasure, there is no better place to enhance your meal than The Moon Bar with eclectic varietals offered by the glass and by the bottle. Offering a tickle of Sparkling effervescence is the French Aubry Brut Rosé, and Hébrart Brut Cuvee de Reserve, or the Italian Ferrari Brut Sparkling. Pert and pink, Rosé includes the 2017 Liquid Farm “Vogelzang” Happy Canyon from Santa Barbara, as well as a Grenache based Rosé straight from the Sierra Foothills of California: the 2017 The Wither’s El Dorado. Essential for California coastal living, the White varietals start with a wine that Bocchino boasts is, “ideally paired with shellfish as it provides superb acid,” the 2015 Picpoul Forlorn Hope Rorock Vineyard, from Calaveras County, followed by a 2015 Viognier Yves Cuilleron from Condrieu, France, and all of the way from Kamptal, Austria the 2016 Gruner Veltliner Weinschlossl. Bold and sumptuous, a Red is sure to compliment the meal, such as the Spanish 2015 Grenache Palacios, Les Terrasses, or a bold and refreshing blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec, uniting to create the 2015 Alpha Omega II Rutherford from Napa Valley. With the final Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blend, the 2010 Phélan Ségur Saint Estephe is sure to please every Bordeaux lover. For the true connoisseur, the Cellar Selections provide unique vintages such as the Bordeaux-Style blend from Napa Valley, the 2001 Joseph Phelps Insignia, or a wine born from the Nebbiolo grape in the mountains of the famous Piemonte region of Italy, the 1998 Gaja Costa Russi, also offered from Champagne, France is the 1997 Salon Les Mesnil Blanc de Blancs.

Creating The Moon Bar look and feel of comfortable but lush beach city cocktail bar is De JONG & Co. For the interior, De JONG & Co. employed contrast and drama as the timeless navy blue of the exterior is carried through The Moon Bar. Cached in the richness of the elements, walnut, soapstone and satin brass accents lend a density to the environment that is at the same time sophisticated and cozy, with custom plush green velvet furniture in a sea of green and teal encaustic tile, and custom designed shelving to showcase all that The Moon Bar has to offer. The details on its casework draw the eye up to a wall-to-wall ceiling treatment of ornate foliage, as though the ocean of the walls rise up to the forested sea floor. A skylight centers the room, with a single exposed beam cutting through like a ship’s mast, and tasteful brass lighting serve as portholes in this stately ship’s cabin. Funneling into the adjacent Lunetta Dining, the night sky is revealed in the constellation-inspired tiling laid out by the firm’s principal designer Ruth De Jong. Look closely and you can spy the Big Dipper.

Warm in attitude while relaxing in composition, The Moon Bar at Lunetta is a new sultry getaway in Santa Monica where you can sip a handcrafted cocktail by a fireplace, meet up with friends, or unwind with your own thoughts at the bar!

The Moon Bar at Lunetta is open every Tuesday through Friday from 6:30 pm to 11:00 pm, and every Saturday from 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm. For more information or to make reservations, please visit www.LunettaSM.com please call The Moon Bar at Lunetta directly at 310.581.9888.

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/

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

Los Angeles Rosé and Bubbles Festival, at Leica Store and Gallery

August 1, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

West Hollywood, Calif. – WineLA, Petrossian Beverly Hills, and Leica Store & Gallery join together to host Los Angeles Rosé & Bubbles Festival on Saturday, August 25, 2018 at Leica Store & Gallery. Rose is more than just a summer-time treat, it’s a year round excuse to smile! Champagne & bubbles of the world will be poured alongside a healthy selection of Roses – as wineLA presents its 2nd annual Los Angeles Rosé & Bubbles Festival.

Come say “yes way” Rosé to a star-studded list of wineries set to pour including: Balleto Vineyards, Champagne Jacquart, Barnard Griffin Winery, Coeur Clémentine, Maisons Marques and Domaines, Domaines Ott, Louis Roederer Champagne, Scharffenberger, Fleur De L’amaurigue, The 50×50, Breathless Sparkling wines, and many more.

In addition to unlimited tastings the wineries confirmed to attend the event admission includes Petrossian Beverly Hills service and gourmet hors d’oeuvres; Silent auction that benefiting the T.J Martell Charity for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

Night time VIP guests will have a chance to have a sit down dinner with special guest Rose and Champagne producers for an intimate high tier “reserve cuvee” session. Guests will also have an opportunity to purchase wines from a retail partner… and VIP guests will not be leaving empty handed! All VIP guests will receive a VIP gift bag stuffed with items provided by Los Angeles Magazine and great local partners.

The daytime event is open to local press and wine buyers at 1:00 p.m with General Admission opening at 2pm for the consumer… the daytime tasting ends at 4pm (this session is on sale for $49 now and will be $75 at the door). The nighttime event will begin at 7PM, with advanced tickets being sold for $85 per person. There are also a limited number of VIP admission tickets, that includes the VIP dinner with Petrossian and a set of producers TBA.

For more information on Los Angeles Rosé & Bubbles Festival 2018 visit: www.winela.com/rose-bubbles-festival

ABOUT WINELA:

wineLA is about enhancing the wine culture of Los Angeles. To do so, wine must be in rhythm with fashion, music, food and other beverages. It must take advantage of the geography, the architecture and the centers of interest. Los Angeles is a giant playground with an amazing array of venues, spaces, wine bars, restaurants, beaches, rooftops, gardens, and magical views. We want to be a part of the LA lifestyle, the wine lifestyle, and celebrate the people, the place and the passion.wineLA will promote significant events, occasional classes, and tastings of merit. This is phase two of what we started 20 years ago at LearnAboutWine.com – America’s first wine education website and first in wine event creation. LearnAboutWine will now evolve onto a digital platform; the transformation will take some time; so we will slowly rebrand our event efforts onto wineLA, reduce the number of activities we focus on, and elevate our efforts to focus on the next big thing… Doing what is best for the wine industry and the communities we serve. Edicts: innovate, evolve and excite.

2018 Pacific Wine and Food Classic Unveils Featured Chefs And Wineries

July 22, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Newport Beach, CA – Pacific Wine and Food Classic is pleased to announce the chefs, restaurants and wineries participating in the foodie event of the summer presented by Pacific Sales and powered by Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. Celebrate the season with summer inspired culinary bites, wine pairings and refreshing libations in the picturesque atmosphere provided by Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort on Saturday, August 18 and Sunday, August 19, 2018.

36b2a178d324c62f818fb9d4c8a2224d Voted top 10 food and wine festivals in the world by International Food, Wine and Travel Writer’s Association, Pacific Wine and Food Classic offers an unparalleled gourmet culinary experience completely inspired by summer. More than 60 of the region’s top chefs will create dishes reminiscent of their favorite summer memories offering guests the unique opportunity to sample an array of Southern California’s finest restaurants all in one weekend.

Surrounded by music and a gentle ocean breeze, indulge in over 100 wine, beer and cocktail stations on the soft sands in Newport Beach. In addition to SoCal and Napa’s most decorated wineries, Stella Artois, Bacardi rum, Sauza Tequila, Sky Vodka, Aperol Spritz and the Maker’s Mark touring truck will be onsite pouring refreshing crafty cocktails. Guests will enjoy all new summer experiences including the Paella and Sangria Lounge by Villa Roma, Summer Wine Garden featuring beautiful chilled wines to pair with bites by SideDoor and Haute Cuisine, Taco & Beer Lounge by Towne Park Brewery and Chela’s Mexican Restaurant, the debut of the official “Pacific Burger” by Burger Boss at the Lynx Backyard Grilling garden, Golden Spoon Café featuring summer gelatos and affogatos and more mouthwatering moments.

Pamela Waitt, President of OC Restaurant Association and Founder of the second annual classic commented, “We are thrilled to welcome guests back to the shores of Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort and highlight so many incredible winemakers and chefs. Orange County is home to some of the best restaurants in the world and it’s an honor to showcase the local talent.”

Single day general admission tickets are currently $115 for Saturday and $99 for Sunday which includes extended early bird pricing. Single day VIP tickets are $149 for Saturday and $139 for Sunday with extended early bird pricing. Purchase of VIP ticket grants 1-hour early admission at 1 p.m. and access to the grassy waterfront VIP courtyard featuring the Hornitos lounge serving fresh summer margaritas, the Perrier Jouet Champagne Gazebo, aged Bacardi rum cocktails, premium wines and an exclusive culinary experience provided by Back Bay Bistro, Bluegold, Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens, Filomena’s Italian Kitchen & Market, Lauren Lawless from Masterchef Season 8, Mix Mix, Mixed Bakery, Provenance, Sadie Rose Bread & Cabot Cheese and The Country Club. VIP tickets are very limited. Weekend two-day passes are sold out.

For more information on the Pacific Wine and Food Classic and to purchase tickets, please visit pacificwineandfood.com.

Pacific Wine & Food Classic Chefs:

Alejandra Padilla – Executive Chef, Five Crowns and SideDoor
Andrea Machuca – Chef, BXCR Wine Bar
Andres Miramontes – Executive Chef, Sol Cocina
Arthur Ortiz – Executive Chef, Skyloft
Bill Drexel – Original Meat Master, Grasslands Meat Market, BBQ & Churrasco
Brian Huskey – Executive Chef, Tackle Box
Bryant Taylor – Executive Chef, Chianina Steakhouse
Cathy Pavlos – Owner & Executive Chef, Provenance Restaurant
Cesar Sarmiento – Chef de Cuisine, CUCINA Enoteca
Chris Paul – Chef, The Public House by Evans Brewing Co.
Craig Brady – Executive Chef, Haven Gastropub
Daniel Jimenez – Executive Chef, Back Bay Bistro
David Castro – Corporate Chef Trainer, Texas de Brazil
David Man – Executive Chef, Fashion Island Hotel Newport Beach & Coastal Catering
Elyssa Fournier – Pastry Chef & Owner, Mixed Bakery
Eric Samaniego – Chef de Cuisine, Michael’s on Naples
Ernie Alvarado – Chef, Urbana Mexican Gastronomy
Francisco Ramirez – Chef, Rusty Pelican Restaurant
Craig Brady – Executive Chef, Haven Gastropub
Greg Daniels – Executive Chef
Greg Stillman – Executive Chef, Leatherby’s Cafe Rouge
Ivan Rogelio Calderon – Chef, Taco Rosa & Taco Mesa
Jason Mazur – Executive Chef, Bluewater Grill
Jenny Ross – Executive Chef
Joe Xavier – Executive Chef, Silva’s Bar & Grill
Jose Rodriguez – Chef de Cuisine, Pete’s Sunset Grille
Karla Vasquez – Executive Chef, Chelas Mexican Restaurant & Catering
Lauren Lawless – Chef, Masterchef Season 8
Leo Razo – Executive Chef, Villa Roma
Linda Johnsen, Owner & Executive Chef – Filomena’s Italian Kitchen & Market
Manny Lopez – Chef, Legado Bar + Kitchen
Manny Velasco – Co-Owner & Executive Chef, Sol Agave
Paolo Buffa – Executive Chef, Marriott Irvine Spectrum, Heirloom Farmhouse Kitchen
Pascal Olhats – Chef, Baja Shellfish Ambassador
Peter Lai – Executive Chef, Oak Grill and Aqua Lounge
Philip Tangonan – Chef, The Cannery Newport Beach
Rainer Schwarz – Executive Chef, Hendrix
Rich Mead – Owner and Executive Chef, Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens
Ross Pangilinan – Chef, Mix Mix Kitchen Bar
Ryan Robertson – Executive Chef, TAPS
Scott Goldberg – Chef, Fresh Brothers
Shachi Mehra – Owner & Executive Chef, Adya
Tia Baker – Chef, The Federal Bar
Tin Vuong – Owner and Chef, Bluegold
Ugo Allesina – Executive Chef, Prego Mediterranean

Some of the Pacific Wine & Food Classic Featured Wineries:

Barone Fini
Pinot Grigio

Belle Glos
2016 “Las Alturas” – Monterey

Black Stallion Estate Winery
Chardonnay
Cabernet Sauvignon

BÖEN
2016 Pinot Noir – Sonoma

Bouchaine
2017 Vin Gris (Rosé of Pinot Noir)
2014 Estate Chardonnay
2014 Estate Pinot Noir

Cave de Lugny
Les Charmes

Chateau Ste. Michelle

Colores del Sol
Rose

Copper Cane Wines & Provisions

Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits

Diora
Pinot Noir

Elouan
2017 Rose – Oregon

Fleurs de Prairie
Rose

Garnet Vineyards
Monterey Pinot Noir

Hi-Time Wine Cellars
Premium Wines Selected

J. Wilkes
Chardonnay
Cabernet Sauvignon

Joseph Carr
Paso Robles Sauvignon Blanc

Josh Cellars
Reserve North Coast Cabernet Sauvignon

Mercer Wines
2016 Cabernet
2016 Chardonnay
2016 Red Blend
2016 Merlot
2016 Reserve Cabernet

Merryvale Vineyards
Cabernet Sauvignon
Chardonnay

Nobilo
Sauvignon Blanc

Orogeny Vineyards
Pinot

Perrier Jouet
Champagne

Picket Fence
Alexander Valley Cabernet
Chardonnay
Pinot Noir
Red Blend

Quilt
2016 Chardonnay – Napa Valley
2016 Cabernet Sauvignon – Napa Valley

Rosenblum Cellars
Rock pile Zinfandel

Ruffino
Sparkling Rose
Il Ducale Pinot Grigio

Smashberry Red

Starmont Winery & Vineyards
Sauvignon Blanc
Rose
Pinot Noir

The Calling
Pino Noir

The Crossings
Sauvignon Blanc

Turtle Bay
Sauvignon Blanc

TYKU Sake

We Believe
2014 Sonoma County Cabernet
2016 Russian River Chardonnay
2016 Russian River Pinot Noir

Z. Alexander Brown
Red Blend
Sauvignon Blanc

Zaca Mesa
2017 Rose
2016 Viognier
2014 Z Cuvee
2013 Mesa Reserve Syrah

Pacific Wine & Food Classic is an incredible world-class culinary experience. Taste bites from local top chefs, explore over 100 wines and hand crafted premium cocktails. Enjoy celebrity chef demonstrations, master sommelier discussions and summer mixology demos. Taste the flavors of summer as the region’s top chefs and mixologists create dishes from their favorite summer memories. The Pacific Wine & Food Classic is a fantastic gourmet experience on the beautiful soft sand in Newport Beach, you’ll be surrounded by music and ocean breezes while enjoying the region’s top chefs.

The success of this great event depends on our wonderful culinary community. Net proceeds will be given to Golden Rule charity as the beneficiary of the Pacific Wine and Food Classic in order to give back to the restaurant industry that works so hard. Golden Rule is a local charity founded to give back and support those in need IN the restaurant industry. Golden Rule Charity administers grants and acts as a liaison between the community and those faced with an unanticipated crisis. Big or small.

Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort
1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, CA, 92660
For more information on the Pacific Wine and Food Classic and to purchase tickets, please visit www.pacificwineandfood.com.

Partners Include: Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, 95.5 KLOS, Infiniti, Golden Rule Charity, The Fork Report with Neil Saavedra, OCfoodies, The ACE Agency, Orange Coast Magazine, US. Foods, Celebrity Cruises, Bacardi, Maker’s Mark, Hornitos, Stella Artois, Dreambox Creations, Sauza, Skyy Vodka, Aperol Spritz, Baja Shellfish Farms, Atria Senior Living, Los Angeles Times, LA & SF Specialty, Greer’s OC, Viele & Sons, Govino, Badoit, Evian, Area 51, Melissa’s Produce, Anderson Seafoods, Arctic Glacier, ICEsurance

Perlis Picks: Lunetta Dining

July 21, 2018 by Michael Perlis Leave a Comment

It’s funny sometimes how things play out.

We were first exposed to Raphael Lunetta’s skills as a chef when Karen and I attended the Buick Discovery Tour at the Four Seasons Hotels in Westlake Village over five years ago.

At the time Chef Lunetta was helming his restaurant JiRaffe in Santa Monica. After meeting him at the Westlake Village event and trying his food, we vowed to make it in to his restaurant but sadly never did. Ultimately we heard that he had closed it after a very long run.

Then in 2017, we got word that he had opened Lunetta All Day in Santa Monica [in the space formerly occupied by Josie’s]. We had still not made it in to check it out when we received the invitation to the media tasting to introduce Lunetta Dining and The Moon Bar.

While Lunetta All Day is a fast-casual restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner [yes, all day], right next door Lunetta Dining and The Moon Bar [together known as Lunetta At Night] hit all the right notes of “elevated cuisine”, “handcrafted cocktails”, “local ingredients” and “farm to table”. These are not just buzzwords here; that is evident.

At the media tasting, we got to sample a number of tasty treats, including beef carpaccio, avocado gazpacho, wood-grilled maitake, crab cakes, loup de mer and rack of lamb.

Sample cocktails were served as well, although we focused on the wine. Sommelier and Beverage Director Kristine Bocchino has put together a great wine list from which we got to try the Picpoul from Forlorn Hope [Calaveras County], the Mourvedre Rose from Liquid Farm [Happy Canyon], the Brut Sparkling Chardonnay from Ferrari [Trentino. Italy] as well as the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah blend from Perinet [Priorat, Spain]. But these just scratch the surface of this list that has a lot of gems on it at a variety of price points.

The media event exposed us to an amazing array of food and libations as well as to Lunetta’s great staff, but of course it was nothing like what a diner will experience upon going there. Karen and I enjoyed the food soooo much that we followed up with a dinner – Saturday nights are especially great for getting out of the Santa Clarita Valley and seeing what the rest of the LA area has to offer.

We shared the grilled nectarines [with manchego and prosciutto] and the wood-grilled Spanish octopus. Karen ordered the New Zealand John Dory. I couldn’t pass up the rack of lamb special.

Preparation and service were superb. This was one of the best meals I’ve had in a long time. Everything was delicious. Hard to pick highlights but here are a few: The nectarines and prosciutto were both generous portions and neither ingredient overshadowed the other. And the octopus – I consider myself somewhat of an octopus aficionado and this was possibly the best I have ever had; extremely tender but not mushy at all, great flavor without being overtly charred. The rack was amazing, again one of the best representations that I have had of that classic as well.

The open kitchen is a nice touch. Not obtrusive but there if you wanted to watch Chef Lunetta and his team in action, or even better – snag a seat at the Chef’s Counter. Somehow, the chef managed to spend time in the dining room as well, making his guests feel welcome. This place is definitely in our rotation; it should be in yours as well.

Lunetta Dining & The Moon Bar

2424 Pico Boulevard

Santa Monica, CA 90405

310.581.9888

www.LunettaSM.com

PERLIS PICKS: Angeleno Wine Company dinner at Crossings

July 14, 2018 by Michael Perlis Leave a Comment

In 2016, reporting on the Los Angeles edition of the Garagiste Festival, I singled out Rhythm Wines as a “winery to watch”, especially enjoying the 2015 Tannat from the local Alonso Family Vineyard.

Then, I lost track of them.

Then, in early 2017 by my recollection, the manager of the short-lived and greatly missed Maré Restaurant in Silver Lake tasted us on a Rosé made by a local winemaker who was focusing on Los Angeles County grapes. But I didn’t make the connection, until…

Eve received an invitation to attend a winemaker dinner at Crossings restaurant in South Pasadena featuring the wines of Angeleno Wine Company. Eve was busy partying – um, I mean researching – in New Orleans, so her loss was our gain.

Karen and I were delighted to take her place but I was unfamiliar with the winery. A quick internet search followed and I was soon looking at the faces of Jasper Dickson and Amy Luftig Viste from that 2016 Garagiste Festival. With the focus now primarily on the Alonso Vineyard, they are working on opening their winery and tasting room in Downtown Los Angeles.

My plan is to devote a full article to Angeleno in the near future. In the meantime, back to the dinner…

Established in 2013, Crossings occupies the historic [built in 1908] Edwards and Faw building in South Pasadena. With dining rooms on two floors and the wine loft in between them as well as a patio, Crossing is visually stunning. The only question was: would the food match?

We were about to find out.

Hosted by Crossings’ Proprietor Patrick Kirchen, Chef Kevin Malone and Wine Ambassador Chris Sweeney along with Angeleno’s Winemaker Jasper Dickson, the challenge to create perfect pairings was not only met but exceeded. With Angeleno’s focus on LA County’s wine history, Chef Kevin developed a Latin-inspired menu that not only paid homage to the heritage of Los Angeles but also to Juan Alonso’s and his vineyard’s Spanish roots.

The first course, a ceviche with compressed melon and roe, also had habanero powder sprinkled on it. The heat from the habanero was cut by the balanced acidity of the Angeleno 2017 White Field Blend of mostly Spanish varietals from Alonso Family Vineyard.

Next came the monk fish with passion fruit and dwarf banana. This was paired with the 2017 “The Meadow” Rosé. This was the only wine not from LA County grapes, instead it was a blend of Graciano and Garnacha from a vineyard farmed by Markus Bokisch in Lodi. This dish and wine pairing had everybody asking for more. As Winemaker Jasper said: “Rosé all day – in LA!”

Next up, quail with mole, yolk and herb salad. This dish was not only delicious but ingenious as well, with the quail and quail egg in the same dish [raising the chicken and egg question in its own way]. The richness of the mole went perfectly with the 2016 Grenache from the Alonso Family Vineyard.

The final course [before dessert] was pork belly [yum!] with tamarind, jicama and hibiscus. Pork belly, of course, is very rich. The jicama cut through that perfectly. This was naturally paired with the heaviest wine of the evening, an excellent Tempranillo and Garnacha blend called “Bike Path”, also a 2016 from the Alonso Vineyard.

Dessert was a churro with queso Oaxaca, guanabana and honey. Pairing the cheese with the sweet dessert provided great contrast and the dish was all brought together with the 2016 “Superbloom” blend of Albarino, Riesling and Chenin Blanc, for the perfect ending to a fabulous meal.

Crossings does special events frequently. But you don’t have to wait for an event to check out Chef Kevin’s food or the killer wine list that Chris has put together. Check out the Crossings website for details.

And stay tuned for more information on Angeleno Wine Company.

Crossings 1010 Mission St, South Pasadena, CA 91030

Angeleno Wine Company Los Angeles, CA

Vintage Eve Circa 3/2015: A H.E.A.R.T of a Rosé

July 3, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

If you are lucky enough to snag one of 80 seats to the release party of Joel and Judy Cox’s latest limited release wine (see below my tasting notes for details) you got lucky – because I gave this very interesting Rosé a whopping 92 Eve points.

2013 Mystic Hills Vineyard Monterey County Rosé

67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc

15.3% alcohol

Appearance – The color of raspberry stretches out from the center of the wine glass until it turns into dark cherry on the edge.

Aroma – Maraschino cherry, grape-flavored hard candy, sliced strawberry, and a garden of wild flowers with a hint of white pepper in the air.

Flavor – Wondering how long the skin was allowed to stay on, as there is a soft tannin backbone to the same cherry and strawberry fruit found on the nose, though now the fruit is brought more forward. There is no unwelcome abundance of acidity, just enough to slightly tickle the taste buds.

Pairing – Anything from fresh fruit to a spicy stir-fry, I’d suggest you try it from your appetizer through to your dessert.

Conclusion – The combination of deep color, beautiful fruit and low acid in this wine surprised me. It is not something I’ve tasted too often, and was wholly pleasant! 92 Eve pts.

Triple-Award Winning Winery Releases Fourth Wine

Mystic Hills Vineyard Releases H.E.A.R.T.S. Rosé at April 25 Party, Less Than 150 Cases Available (Editor’s note: This event has already occurred.)

February 20, 2015 – Paso Robles, CA – At an upcoming April 25 H.E.A.R.T.S. Rosé release party, less than 100 people will be greeted with sparkling wine at the latest sparkling event to come from triple-award winning Mystic Hills Vineyard owners Joel and Judy Cox.

Following their first taste will come many other treats that include tastes of their other award-winning wines, food pairings by Chef Chris New of Locally Grown, live music and the main attraction: being one of the first to sample the new limited production H.E.A.R.T.S. Rosé, destined to be another medal winner. The party will be held in a private home in the Santa Clarita Valley, where the Coxes raised their family before moving to Paso Robles.

In a nod to most of the Mystic Hills Vineyard “crew” the H.E.A.R.T.S. label represents the first letter of the names of each of the Coxes’ six grandchildren.

All three bottles in their first vintage were honored by the esteemed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition: Mystic Hills Vineyard’s 2011 Unforgiven red blend was awarded a Gold Medal, and the 2011 Sequel red blend and 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon both received Silver Medals. Vintner Joel Cox is also known for his recent Oscar nomination, as Clint Eastwood’s long-standing editor, for the highly acclaimed film American Sniper.

For $65 non-members can reserve a spot at the private event held in a Stevenson Ranch home, Mystic members will receive a 20 percent courtesy, $52, on their tickets. The event will run from 2:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M. Reserve tickets at info@mystichillsvineyard.com, via FAX 805-467-2019 or call (805) 610-1099.

Mystic Hills Vineyard is located in San Miguel, CA, and 10 miles north of Paso Robles. For a private tasting with the wine makers, please call (805) 610-1099 or email info@mystichillsvineyard.com. For all correspondence, please send to: P.O. Box 5148
Paso Robles, CA 93447, info@mystichillsvineyard.com Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mystic-Hills-Vineyard/174322976034673

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years. She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a guest judge for the L.A. International Wine Competition. 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