Award Winning Spirits: Taste + Sustainability

May 3, 2017 by evebushman

FOUR GOLD MEDALS & BEST IN DIVISION FOR MARBLE DISTILLING CO. SPIRITS

Carbondale, CO – Marble Distilling Co. won four Gold Medals at the 2017 Denver International Spirits Competition and Best in Division (Vodka) at Distilled: San Diego Spirit & Cocktail Competition.

A sustainable distillery nestled at the base of the Elk Mountains of Colorado, Marble Distilling Co. was awarded four Gold Medals at Denver International Spirits Competition (DISC) for the following signature spirits: Marble Vodka, Gingercello, Gingercello Reserve & Moonlight EXpresso. The founders of Wine Country Network formed DISC in 2011. This is one of the few international spirits competitions worldwide to be judged “double blind” by a panel of highly regarded beverage professionals including sommeliers, retail buyers, journalists, mixologists and beverage directors.

Coming on the heels of the DISC wins, Marble Distilling Co. was named Best in Division-Vodka for Marble Vodka at Distilled: San Diego Spirit & Cocktail Competition. Marble’s Gingercello & Gingercello Reserve also won Silver and Bronze Medals in the liqueur division. The San Diego County Fair hosts Distilled, one of the best spirit competitions in the country, with more than 180 entries from 85 distilleries around the world judged by industry professionals.

These awards come just after receiving a Master’s Medal in Green Initiatives, the highest award allotted, from The Global Spirits Masters series. Produced by UK-based The Spirits Business which has long celebrated the international spirits industry, they created the Global Distillery Masters to celebrate the achievements and innovations of the distilleries themselves, beyond their spirits. “This is an example of what you should be doing” said Judge David T. Smith, Founder of the Craft Distilling Expo. Smith went on the say “they (Marble Distilling Co.) have the additional challenge of having a hotel as well. I think it’s great that they are zero-waste.” Judge Nicholas Clark Director General of The Gin Guild remarked that “The figures for water savings are astonishing.”

“We are honored to receive these prestigious awards, as we are an emerging distillery,” said Co-Founder & Head Distiller Connie Baker. “Not only do we distill first-rate spirits, we are leaders in sustainable distilling, saving 4.1 million gallons of water annually and recapturing enough energy annually to power 20 homes.”

Drink Sustainably.
Marble Distilling Co. is a pioneer of sustainable distilling and is one of the only (if not the only) zero-waste distillery in the world. Our motto “Drink Sustainably” is the core of our business. MDC recaptures 100% of its process water & reuses energy harvested from the distillation process to heat its facility, saving more than 4 million gallons of water annually & capturing for reuse, enough energy to heat 20 homes. All grains are sourced locally & all stillage from MDC’s distillery is sent to local Carbondale ranchers. MDC – Saving the planet one bottle at a time!

About Marble Distilling Co. and The Distillery Inn

Located in the heart of Carbondale, Colorado’s Creative District, Marble Distilling Co. & The Distillery Inn is a family & friends owned craft spirits distillery, tasting room and luxury inn. The only distiller in the world to use the world-famous marble stone as a filtering agent, MDC currently offers four spirits – Marble Vodka, Moonlight EXpresso, Gingercello & Gingercello Reserve (Whiskey & Bourbon for future release). The Distillery Inn is the first and only inn in the world to be housed within an operational distillery – guests can “Sleep with the Stills”. The Distillery Inn offers luxury accommodation, with five sophisticated, contemporary rooms. For more information or to make a reservation call (970) 963-7008 or visit www.marbledistilling.com.

Follow Marble Distilling Co. & The Distillery Inn on
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarbleDistilling
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MarbleDistillin
Instagram: https://instagram.com/marbledistillingco/
Google+: https://plus.google.com/+Marbledistillingco/posts
and Visit our YouTube Channel: Marble Distilling Co.

Vines and Van Gogh

April 26, 2017 by evebushman

San Diego, CA (PRWEB) – What: Save the date! The Balboa Park Cultural Partnership is delighted to announce its newest event: The Vine Affair. A stylish celebration of wine, art, beer, spirits and food pairings accompanied by music from Italian opera to jazz.

When: Friday, June 2, 2017, 6:00 – 10:00 pm

Where: Attendees will progress to six of Balboa Park’s museums while enjoying unique art installations, live music, wine and wine education. Participating locations include the San Diego Art Institute, San Diego Museum of Art, the San Diego Model Railroad Museum, Fleet Science Center, San Diego History Center and the Balboa Park Conservancy presented by the Prado restaurant.

Cost: Tickets are on sale now. Limited tasting—$50, unlimited tasting—$65, VIP—$100, designated driver—$35.

For more information, visit our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram

About Balboa Park Cultural Partnership
Balboa Park Cultural Partnership is a nonprofit organization through which 28 arts, science and cultural institutions in Balboa Park collaborate to achieve shared goals. By helping these groups achieve greater organizational efficiency, innovation and excellence, it seeks to contribute to the vitality and sustainability of Balboa Park. For more information visit http://www.bpcp.org.

Toast of the Coast Wine Fest Accepting Entries

December 19, 2016 by evebushman

DEL MAR, Ca. – The Toast of the Coast is now accepting entries for the 2017 wine competition which will take place February 18-19, 2017. Hosted by the San Diego County Fair, The Toast of the Coast evaluates wines produced throughout the United States and Mexico.

What makes The Toast of the Coast unique in the world of wine competitions is the ability for wineries to actually sell product that will be poured during the wine festival, noted Director Rich Cook. The Toast of the Coast Wine Festival will be held Saturday, June 10 during the Fair and attracts more than 1,200 wine enthusiasts.

This year, in partnership with Albertsons|Vons, participating brands carried in Southern California will be featured in-store, creating excellent exposure opportunities to the San Diego wine consumer. Combined with the marketing exposure of The Toast of the Coast Wine Festival, this is the single best competition for wineries trying to increase sales in the San Diego market.

Wineries can register at thetoastofthecoast.com and receive the early bird price of $55 per entry from now until January 6, 2017, after which entry fees will increase to $80 each. Deadline to enter is January 27, 2017. Wines will be evaluated by an expert panel of judges featuring wine writers, buyers and sommeliers.

The San Diego County Fair, presented by Albertsons|Vons, is the largest fair in California with attendance of more than 1.6 million. Last year, more than 70 top wines were poured at the one-day ticketed tasting event during the 26 day run of the Fair.

About The Toast of the Coast

The Toast of the Coast wine competition and festival is produced by the 22nd District Agricultural Association in conjunction with the San Diego County Fair. 2017 marks the sixth year of The Toast of the Coast. The competition is open to bonded wineries throughout the United States and Mexico. The festival is open to the public and features award-winning wines and is held during the annual San Diego County Fair, presented by Albertsons|Vons. The San Diego County Fair is the largest county fair in the United States, drawing more than 1.6 million visitors annually. For more information, visitwww.thetoastofthecoast.com.

San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival, Line Up Announced

October 17, 2016 by evebushman

San Diego, CA – The San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival^® launches ticket sales for its 13^th annual culinary classic held November 14-20, 2016, and announces an impressive lineup of new events and celebrity chefs. Featuring over 40 citywide tasting experiences, Southern California’s largest food and wine festival will welcome 10,000 eager epicurean enthusiasts to America’s Finest City.

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Celebrity chefs slated to headline events throughout the week include: Rick Moonen of rm Seafood and Rx Boiler Room; Rick Bayless of Frontera Grill; Michelle Bernstein of Cena by Michy; Marcus Samuelsson of Red Rooster Harlem, Ginny’s Supper Club, and Streetbird Rotisserie; Cosmo Goss of The Publican Restaurant; Erling Wu-Bower of Nico Osteria; Suzette Gresham of Acquerello; Gale Gand, acclaimed pastry chef; television personalities, Dan Smith and Steve McDonagh, the Hearty Boys; Stephanie Prida of Manresa; Renee Erickson of The Whale Wins, Boat Street Café, The Walrus and the Carpenter, and Barnacle; Steve Santana of Taquiza; Justin Woodward of Castagna; Dean James Max of DJM Restaurants, and Chef Jason French of Ned Ludd.

In addition to over 200 wineries, breweries, and spirits, over 60 of San Diego’s top chefs, sommeliers, brewmasters and tastemakers will participate in the weeklong culinary classic, with local standouts including: Chef Javier Plascencia of Bracero; Chef Jason McLeod of Ironside Fish & Oyster; Chef Giselle Wellman of Pacific Standard Coastal Kitchen; Chef Drew Deckman of Deckman’s En El Mogor; Chef Bernard Guillas and Chef Ron Oliver of The Marine Room; Chef Rob Ruiz of Land & Water Co; Chef Trey Foshee of California Modern; Chef Tim Kolanko of Mess Hall; Chef Andrew Bachelier of Campfire; Chef Christine Rivera of Galaxy Taco; Chef Aron Schwartz of Marina Kitchen; Chef Amy DiBiase of Tidal; Chef Andrew Spurgin of Bespoke Event Styling, and Chef Evan Cruz of Arterra, to name a few.

The annual wine and food festival showcases San Diego’s vibrant culinary community through cooking classes, chef dinners, and multiple tasting events. Brand NEW events, excursions, and experiences featured at this year’s food and wine festival include:

Mercy of The Chef – A selection of the country’s most talented chefs jet to America’s Finest City to partner with beloved San Diego chefs on an opening night dinner series that hits locales across the region and in Baja. In the hands of the chef, anything goes at this epic opening night. Locations Vary | Monday, November 14 | Prices vary Celebrate opening night at
- Ironside Fish & Oyster in Little Italy with Executive Chef Jason McLeod and Stephanie Prida from Manresa in Los Gatos, CA
- Deckman’s En El Mogor in the Valle de Guadalupe with Executive Chef Drew Deckman and Renee Erickson of Seattle, Washington’s The Whale Wins, Boat Street Café, The Walrus and the Carpenter, Barnacle and author of A Boat, A Whale & A Walrus
- Galaxy Taco in La Jolla with Chef de Cuisine Christine Rivera and Chef Steve Santana from Taquiza in Miami, Florida
- George’s in La Jolla with Executive Chef Trey Foshee and Chef Justin Woodward from Castagna in Portland, Oregon
- Campfire in Carlsbad with Executive Chef Andrew Bachelier and Chef Jason French from Ned Ludd in Portland, Oregon

Marcus Samuelsson Hosts: In The Spirit | Whisk(e)y – From Bourbon to Scotch, Tennessee Whiskey to Japanese Whisky, Irish Whiskey and Rye, taste through a variety of styles and brands that represent a broad spectrum of today’s marketplace. Luce Loft | Wednesday, November 16 | $75 per person

Safe Harbor | Sustainable Seafood: Myths, Truths & Misinformation – Featuring nationally prominent chefs, local fishermen, academics and activists, this live panel discussion is free to attend and takes a multi-disciplinary look at the impact seafood choices have on the wellbeing of the oceans. Presented by the Berry Good Foundation as part of their Future Thought Leaders series, the panel features Chef Rick Moonen as well as complimentary food and drink from Chef Isabel Cruz who will highlight local farms and fishmongers. Location TBD | Wednesday, November 16 | Complimentary

Dinner With The Culinary Icons + Live Auction Presented by Lexus- A star-studded evening with epic culinary talent of (g)astronomical proportions. This once in a lifetime dining experience features Chefs: Marcus Samuelsson, Rick Bayless, Michelle Bernstein, Rick Moonen, Javier Plascencia, Bernard Guillas, and Aron Schwartz. Wines include: Louis Latour, Kistler and Lewis Cellars, to name a few. Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina, San Diego Ballroom | Thursday, November 17 | $300 per person

Bounty of San Diego: Ranchers, Farmers + Fisherman – Discover the bounty of San Diego in a five course, wine-paired dinner honoring hardworking craftsmen and women. Join celebrated chefs, Aron Schwartz, Suzette Gresham, Bernard Guillas, and Gale Gand. Marina Kitchen | Friday, November 18 | $225 per person

Expedition: Tuna Harbor Dockside Market + VIP Lexus Grand Tasting –Join Chef Rick Moonen and local sustainable seafood champion Chef Rob Ruiz on a private guided tour of Tuna Dockside Harbor, complete with sustainability talks, tastings and a signed copy of Rick Moonen’s book. The package also includes VIP Entry tickets to the Lexus Grand Tasting with a special chef’s table experience by Rob Ruiz with freshly prepared sushi and sashimi made from fish procured during that morning’s harbor tour. Tuna Dockside Harbor | Saturday, November 19 | $500 per person
Pizzapalooza Featuring Battle of the Bartenders – Fromdeep dish, New York, Neapolitan, Sicilian, grilled, Detroit, etc., people are passionate about their pizza. Take in multiple tasting stations from San Diego’s top pizza makers, hit up incredible mixology and craft cocktail stations, and vote during the Battle of the Bartender competition. Pizzapalooza also features the Gelato World Tour. Location TBD | Sunday, November 20 | $55 per person

San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival favorites returning to this year’s event lineup include:

San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival^®Golf Invitational – Maderas Golf Course plays host to the most delicious golf tournament around. This 18-hole course features six culinary tasting holes, six wine, brewery and sprit experiences, and six hole challenges complete with over the top prizes. Maderas Golf Course | Monday, November 14 | $200 per person / $750 per foursome

Fish Taco TKO Hosted by Rick Moonen – The Fish Taco TKO is back for its fifth annual competition to settle the score on who is making the best fish taco. At this year’s taco showdown, the city’s best fish taco makers are dished an extra challenge; their taco must use sustainable fish. Fish Taco TKO features unique beer and tequila stations and two prize categories – People and Critics’ Choice. Quartyard Urban Park | Tuesday, November 15 | $50 per person

Ocean-To-Table Luncheon – Highly regarded as one of the most breathtaking vistas in San Diego, The Marine Room and its celebrated chef Bernard Guillas and special guest Rick Moonen host a five-course, wine paired lunch with chefs known for their respect, creativity and passion for the fruits de mer. The luncheon is a who’s who of local chefs and includes: Rob Ruiz, Dean James Max, Amy DiBiase, Jason McLeod, Andrew Spurgin, Evan Cruz and Ron Oliver. The Marine Room | Wednesday, November 16 | $95 per person

SommCon^®: The San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival^®partners again with SommCon^®, a leading conference and exposition for wine, beer and spirit industry professionals and serious enthusiasts. SommCon^® features over 40 educational sessions led by Master Sommeliers, Masters of Wine and an all star collection of the industry’s finest pros. Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina | Wednesday, November 16 – Saturday, November 19 | Prices vary per person

Expedition: Baja: Hosted by Fernando Gaxiola of Baja Wine + Food, spend the day across the border, discovering the wineries, chefs, and restaurants that make gastronomy from Baja one of the most talked about culinary destinations on the planet. Featuring Chef Diego Hernandez of Corazon De Tierra. Baja, Mexico | Wednesday, November 16 | $325 per person

Lexus Grand Tasting Featuring the NEW Culinary Theater and VIP Experience: As returning platinum sponsor of the largest wine and food festival in Southern California, the San Diego County Lexus Dealers will take center stage with the Lexus Grand Tasting on the scenic San Diego Bay, featuring over 700 wines, 60 of San Diego’s top chefs, and over 30 gourmet food companies. The VIP Tent has never tasted so good as celebrity chefs Cosmo Gross and Erling Wu-Bower team up with local superstar Jason McLeod, Giselle Wellman, and Tim Kolanko to host this year’s NEW VIP Tent experience. Also NEW this year, join today’s hottest chefs for demonstrations at the Culinary Theater, including: the Hearty Boys, Javier Plascencia, Cosmo Gross, Erling Wu-Bower, and Rick Bayless.San Diego County Lexus Dealers consists of four dealerships providing word-class service to all of San Diego County, including Lexus El Cajon, Lexus Carlsbad, Lexus Escondido and Lexus San Diego. Embarcadero Marina Park North | Saturday, November 19 | $135 General Admission, $175 Early Entry | $225 VIP

The San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival^®offers several ways for epicurean enthusiasts to indulge in the most decadent culinary experience of the year, including all-inclusive ticket packages that offer overall savings, and feature hotel accommodations as well as admission to a selection of the food and wine festival’s premier events. Discounted accommodations are available at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina. Hotel reservations and ticket packages can be reserved by calling, 877.385.9595.

To preview the schedule of events and featured celebrities, visit the San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival^®online at www.sandiegowineclassic.com. Events, personalities, and participating wineries and restaurants are updated daily.

SAN DIEGO BAY WINE + FOOD FESTIVAL®

The 13^th Annual San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival^®is an international showcase of the world’s premier wine and spirits producers, chefs and culinary personalities, and gourmet foods. Held November 14-20, 2016 the event benefits culinary arts and enology scholarships awarded by Fast Forward Futures and the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. Over 200 wineries, breweries, and spirit companies and 60 of San Diego’s top fine-dining restaurants will participate in the 2016 Festival. For more information visit www.sandiegowineclassic.com. Produced by World of Wine Events and Fast Forward. For more information call 619-312-1212.

SommCon San Diego Registration Now Open (For wine enthusiasts too!)

October 2, 2016 by evebushman

SommCon^® Returns To San Diego Featuring Over 40 Educational Seminars, Certification Opportunities, Tasting Events and More This November 16-19, 2016

San Diego, CA – This fall, SommCon^® returns to San Diego bringing together professionals of all levels to discuss, develop and lead the conversation on the business of wine. Held November 16-19, 2016 at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina, SommCon’s^® education is built by some of today’s most influential palates for trade professionals and serious enthusiasts who have a passion for wine and spirits and an unyielding quest for knowledge.

Boasting over 40 sessions, attendees learn and taste alongside the industry’s best and brightest through keynote sessions and educational classes complete with networking opportunities, a trade-only tasting and expo.

The conference begins on Wednesday, November 16 with professional certification opportunities including the WSET (Wine & Spirits Education Trust) Level 1 Award in Wine offered by the Neptune School of Wine, as well as Certified Cicerone®, the second level of certification through the Cicerone Certification Program.

The main conference is held Thursday, November 17 and Friday, November 18, and includes in-depth sessions led by industry thought leaders, round-table discussions, regional explorations, and The Trade Tasting at SommCon^®, featuring over 100 wineries, breweries, spirit purveyors, and service industry brands. SommCon^® concludes on Saturday, November 19 at the San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival’s Lexus Grand Tasting – Southern California’s most exciting weeklong epicurean experience.

Young professionals under the age of 30 who have a passion for entering a profession in the wine industry or expanding their knowledge can apply to receive free conference registration through the Young Leader’s Summit Scholarship. Applications are due by September 15, 2016 and can be found here.

Over 40 sessions will be offered at this year’s conference, including:

The Nightmare Scenario, Dealing With a Difficult Guest – Through specific technics, humor and a sense of resolution, join a panel of experienced professionals as they navigate between some of the ways they have dealt with the nightmare scenario. Presenter: Eric Entrikin, Master Sommelier, Instructor and Examiner, Court of Master Sommeliers (Thursday, November 17 and Friday, November 18)

Re-Discover Bordeaux – This session looks at the current generation of winegrowers in Bordeaux. Take a tour across the different appellations of Bordeaux, learn their stories and taste their wines. Presenters: Mary Gorman, Master of Wine; Ira Norof, CSE, CWE, Director of Education and Events, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits; Lindsay Pomeroy, BA, WSET Diploma, CWE, FWD, Owner and Chief Wine Educator, Wine Smarties (Thursday, November 17)

Digging Into Unique Terroir Presented by The SOMM Journal – This panel features representatives from unique appellations in Navarro, Spain; Alto Adige, Italy; The Veneto, Italy and Portugal. Taste two wines that best tell the story of each distinct terroir. Presenter: Eric Hemer, Master Sommelier, Master of Wine, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits (Thursday, November 17)

Hungarian Furmint: Ancient Grape, Modern Wines – Previously known for its sweet Aszú wines, the Tokaj region is now introducing dry Furmint wines to the US Market. Discover Hungary’s flagship grape variety and the versatility of the Furmint grape’s range of styles and expressions. Presenter: Tim Gaiser, Master Sommelier, Wine Educator (Thursday, November 17)

Blind Taste With The Masters – Join world-renowned Master Sommeliers, Masters of Wine and San Diego’s brightest somms as they battle it out in the ultimate blind tasting challenge through an exciting tasting experience of six wines. Panelists: Vary each day (Thursday, November 17 and Friday, November 18)

History of Craft Beer: Ancient To The Present – Learn how beer influenced the start of human civilization, gave power to religion, and was at the forefront of the industrial revolution. Discuss beer post prohibition and the rise of craft beer, and hear from the experts on what the future holds. Moderator: Maurice DiMarino, Level Two Masters Guild of Sommeliers, Wine Director, Island Prime. Presenters: George Thornton, Co-Founder, Home Brewing Co.; Greg Koch, CEO and Co-Founder, Stone Brewing; Mark Weslar, Vice President of Marketing, Karl Strauss Brewing Company; Jennifer Glanville, Brewer and Director of Brewery Programs, Samuel Adams, and Brandon Hernandez, Societie Brewery (Thursday, November 17)

The Role of Viticulture in the Evolution of Napa Valley Wines – There has been much said about the roles of critics and winemakers in the changes in Napa Valley Wines over the last four decades. As truly great wines reflect the origins of the vineyard, the evolution of Napa Valley winemaking can also be understood by examining changes in vineyard practices. Explore Napa Valley wines through the lens of viticulture with an engaging panel and tasting Presenter: Jon Ruel, Chief Executive Officer, Trefethen Family Vineyards (Thursday, November 17)

Extraordinary Tuscan Experience – Join Castello Banfi third generation Family Proprietor, Cristina Mariana-May and Master Sommelier, Fred Dame as they unveil the release of the 2010 Brunello Riservas from Castello Banfi and taste through the next generation of Banfi Wines. Presenters: Fred Dame, Master Sommelier, American Wine & Spirits, Cristina Mariani-May, Family Proprietor, Castello Banfi (Friday, November 18)

Diversity of Pinot Noir Within the Russian River Valley – This guided tasting examines the different nuances of the microclimates and soils that result in the diverse Russian River Valley Pinot Noir terroir. Presenters: Brad Alper, Winegrower, Square Peg; Guy Davis, Founder, Farmer, Winemaker, Davis Family; Bryan Kvamme, Winemaker, Martinelli; Boyd Morrison, Winemaker, MacMurray Estate Vineyards, and Jim Pratt, Winegrower, MacPhail (Friday, November 18)

Alsace Rocks: Exploring The Region’s Grand Crus – This session explores Alsace’s varied and unique terroir and its impact on the region’s famous expressive wines. With 13 distinct soil types in Alsace, the region has the most varied terroir in all of France. Presenter: Josh Nadal, Beverage Director, NoHo Hospitality Group (Friday, November 17)

SommCon^®is only open to 300 registrants, and for those in attendance, there are several ways to participate, with conference packages and single day passes available.

Full Conference Package (November 17- 18) – Full conference access with choice of seminars, Continental Breakfast and Roundtable Discussions, Keynote Speaker and Winemaker Lunch, Hosted Tastings, Winemaker Lunch, The Trade Tasting at SommCon^®, $365 before September 16

Single Day Conference Registration Package (November 17) – One day conference access with choice of seminars, Continental Breakfast and Roundtable Discussions, Keynote Speaker and Winemaker Lunch, Hosted Tastings, $195 before September 16

Single Day Conference Registration Package (November 18) – One day conference access with choice of seminars, Winemaker Lunch, Hosted Tastings, The Trade Tasting at SommCon^®, $195 before September 16

The Trade Tasting At SommCon (November 18) – Free for qualified members of the trade until September 1

Lexus Grand Tasting (November 19) – Trade tickets are $75 each, to qualify fill out the application here

Sponsors and educational partners to date include: The SOMM Journal, The Tasting Panel Magazine, Napa Valley Vintners, Russian River Valley Winegrowers, Wines of Alsace, Bourgogne Wine Board, Furmint USA, Les Vins De Médoc, Sta. Rita Hills Wine Alliance, Vins de Bordeaux, Society of Wine Educators, Castello Banfi, Rias Baixas Wines, Wines of Germany, Côtes de Bordeaux, Left Coast Cellars, Wine Spectator, Somm’s List, and Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits.

SommCon^® panelists, presenters and speakers include: Jesse Becker, Master Sommelier, Market Specialist, Craft + Estate; Amy Christine, Master of Wine, Black Sheep Finds Winery; Fred Dame, Master Sommelier, American Wine & Spirits; Erik Entrikin, Master Sommelier; David Glancy, Master Sommelier, San Francisco Wine School; Mary Gorman-McAdams, Master of Wine, Bordeaux Wine Council; Tim Gaiser, Master Sommelier; Eric Hemer, Master of Wine, Master Sommelier, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits; Geoff Labitzke, Master of Wine, Director of Sales & Marketing, Kistler; Joseph Spellman, Master Sommelier, JUSTIN Vineyards and Winery; Peter Koff, CWM, MS, President, Fairest Cape Beverage Company; Brad Alper, Winegrower, Square Peg; Bryan Babcock, Winemaker, Babcock Vineyards; Geralyn Brostrom, Italian Wine Central, Certified Wine Educator, Italian Wine Professional; Ken Brown, Owner, Ken Brown Wines; Randy Caparoso, Editor-At-Large, The SOMM Journal, Contributing Editor, The Tasting Panel; Jim Clarke, Marketing Manager, Wines of South Africa, USA; Guy Davis, Founder, Farmer, Winemaker, Davis Family; Maurice DiMarino, Level Two Masters Guild of Sommeliers, Wine Director, Island Prime; Wayne Donaldson, Head of Production, The Calling; Maureen Downey, DWS, CEW, Columnist, Wine-Searcher.com; Eric Flanagan, Founder, Flanagan Winery; Damon Goldstein, Truly Fine Wines; Randall Grahm, Owner, Bonny Doon Vineyard; David Hejl, Proprietor, Winemaker, Domaine Della Winery; Kathy Joseph, Proprietor, Winemaker, Grape Herder, Head Fiddle, Fiddlehead Cellars; Greg Koch, CEO and Co-Founder, Stone Brewing; Bryan Kvamme, Winemaker, Martinelli; Cristina Mariana-May, Family Proprietor, Castello Banfi; Dewey Markham Jr., DMj Wineworks; Meridith May, Publisher/Editorial Director, The Tasting Panel, The SOMM Journal, The Clever Root; Luke McCollom, General Manager, Viticulturist and Founding Winemaker, Left Coast Cellars; Boyd Morrison, Winemaker MacMurray Estate Vineyards; Josh Nadel, Beverage Director, NoHo Hospitality Group; Frank Ostini, Owner, Chef Winemaker, Hitching Post II; Lindsay Pomeroy, BA, WSET Diploma, CWE, FWD, Owner and Chief Wine Educator, Wine Smarties; Jim Pratt, Winegrower, MacPhail; Dlynn Proctor, Penfolds Ambassador, Americas and Canada; David Ramey, Founder, Winemaker, Ramey Cellars; John Rielly, Fine Wine Development, Manager-West, Terlato Wines International; Jon Ruel, Chief Executive Officer; Trefethen Family Vineyards; Richard Sanford, Owner, Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards; George Thornton, Co-Founder, The Homebrewer; Raj Vaidya, Head Sommelier, DANIEL; Rachel Voorhee, Director of Wine Education, Wine Director, Rodney Strong Vineyards; Mark Weslar, Vice President of Marketing, Karl Strauss Brewing Company; Jennifer Glanville, Brewer and Director of Brewery Programs, Samuel Adams.

SommCon^®takes place November 16-19, 2016 at Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina in San Diego, California. For more information or to purchase conference registration, visit: SommConUSA.com and follow SommCon^®on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Discounted accommodations are available at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina for SommCon attendees, make reservations here.

ABOUT SOMMCON^®: SommCon® is a leading conference and exposition for education and training of beverage professionals and serious enthusiasts. Held November 16 – 19, 2016, in San Diego, CA, the four-day conference brings together industry professionals of all levels to discuss, develop, and lead the conversation on the business of wine. SommCon’s ^® education is built by industry thought leaders for trade professionals and serious enthusiasts who have a passion for wine and spirits and an unyielding quest for knowledge. Attendees learn and taste their way through keynote sessions and educational classes, complete with a trade-only tasting and expo. SommCon^®is produced by Fast Forward Event Productions, an event management agency specializing in productions for the wine, beer and spirits industry, fastforwardevents.com

Save the Date: STARS of Cabernet November 9-10

August 15, 2016 by evebushman

Announcing STARS of Cabernet
Over 40+ Cabernet producers from around the world is traveling to Southern California for an elite tasting event on Wednesday, November 9, 2016 at The Grand Del Mar in San Diego and Thursday, November 10 at The Peninsula Beverly Hills in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles, California – Los Angeles’ largest Cabernet event is back for its’ 8th year celebrating top collectible Cabernet brands. This year, wineLA will be not only taking over Beverly Hills, but San Diego as well! Past participants include: Ackerman Family Vineyards, Acumen Wines, Alpha Omega, Bougetz Cellars, Broman Cellars, Cain Vineyard & Winery, Cairdean Estate, Calcareous Vineyard, Cass Winery, Chateau Margene, Coquerel Family Wines, Daou Vineyards & Winery, Duckhorn, Eberle Winery, Frank Family Vineyards, Halter Ranch Vineyard, Hawk & Horse, Heitz Cellar, Hendry, Hidden Ridge Vineyard, J. Lohr Vineyard & Wines, John Bookwalter Winery, Jordan, Justin Vineyards, Krupp Brothers, Mario Bazan Cellars, Michael Mondavi Winery-Folio, Modus Operandi, Oakville East, Oakville Ranch Vineyards, Paradigm Winery, Parry Cellars, Patland Vineyards, Pomar Junction Vineyard, Priest Ranch Wines, Raymond Vineyards, Rotta Winery, Round Pond Estate, Salvestrin Winery, Sextant Wines, Signorello Estate, Sleight Of Hand Cellars, St. Supery Estate, The Debate, Tierra Roja, Va Piano Vineyards, Vina Robles Vineyards, Westerly Wines, ZD Wines. The winery participants for 2016 are to be announced in the coming month.This tasting will be jammed packed with wine, food and a whole lot of fun. Dance to special celebrity DJ, visit tables of local businesses and enjoy over 200 Cabernet wines. Early bird general admission gold and silver tickets can be purchased for $100- $125 and includes unlimited wine tasting, and an elegant assortment of appetizers, cheeses, and desserts. Wine aficionados can choose to purchase a VIP ticket for $200, which includes early admission, 6 p.m. plated dinner, exclusive tasting with and VIP sponsored gift bags upon departure. Tickets will increase October 1.

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

Stars of Cabernet will commence at 7:00 p.m. for gold ticket holders, 7:30 p.m. for silver tickets and 6:00 p.m. for VIP attendees.

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

About wineLA

wineLA is focused on enhancing the wine culture of Los Angeles. wineLA hosts significant events, occasional classes, and tastings of merit. This is the second phase of what the organization started 20 years ago at LearnAboutWine.com – America’s first wine education website and first in wine event creation.

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

Mystic Hills Vineyard Crushing it Again in the New Awards Season

July 2, 2016 by evebushman

Vintners Feel Success…is partly due to the support of treasured friends

Paso Robles, California – Just in from the New York International Wine Competition, Monterey County’s Mystic Hills Vineyard received two special USA Individual Awards: Monterey Winery of the Year 2016 and Paso Robles Dry Red Blend Producer of the Year. Adding to the accolades from that competition: Gold Medal for Unforgiven 2012, Silver Medal for 2014 H.E.A.R.T.S. Rosé, and Bronze Medal for 2012 Gran Trio, all Bordeaux Blends.

In other competitions announced this June, Mystic Hills Vineyard received top prizes at the 2016 San Diego International Wine Challenge: Platinum for their 2012 Unforgiven, Bordeaux Blend (score 94), Gold for their 2012 Gran Trio, and Silver for the 2014 H.E.A.R.T.S. Rosé.

“Made in a typical style for California’s Central Coast,” Robert Whitley, wine columnist and director of the San Diego competition said, “The 2012 Unforgiven is ripe and juicy, with layers of black fruit and a touch of oak vanillin. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be consumed even at this early stage of its evolution. A platinum award-winner at the San Diego International Wine Challenge.”

Adding even more to their week of awards, The Los Angeles International Wine Competition, awarded the BEST OF CLASS, GOLD MEDAL to Unforgiven, 91 Points Bordeaux Blend Monterey County 2011. They also took home Bronze Medals for Cabernet Sauvignon, Monterey County 2012 and Gran Trio, Bordeaux Blend, Monterey County 2012.

They are still awaiting results of other competitions, but if this year is anything like last year, more medals will be coming their way. In 2015, Mystic Hills was the recipient of more than 12 awards, including being named Monterey Winery of the Year 2015.

About Mystic Hills Vineyard

Making these awards all the more special is the fact that this is only their second year of public releases. The vineyard is family owned by Judy and Joel Cox, he of Oscar winning fame as a film editor for more than 40 years, most exclusively with Director Clint Eastwood.

The grapes at Mystic Hills are hand-picked and the process is all hand crafted, vine to bottle. Everything is overseen by expert winemaker Keith Roberts and the Cox family. Mystic Hills Vineyard is truly a boutique vineyard, nestled on 14 acres in the beautiful rolling hills of San Miguel, California, just minutes from Paso Robles. They currently have 4 Bordeaux varietals released, with a fifth, a Reserve Malbec, due later this year.

Contact and Tastings

Mystic Hills Vineyard does not have a public tasting room, but graciously provides private tastings with the winemakers for individuals or small groups by appointment, at their home near the vineyard. You may find them at many wine events in Paso Robles and Southern California. For more information on their wines, wine club, upcoming events or to schedule a private tasting, please contact:

Judy or Joel Cox 805-610-1099 Info@mystichillsvineyard.com www.mystichillsvineyard.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mystic-Hills-Vineyard-174322976034673/timeline

TICKETS NOW ON SALE FOR SAN DIEGO BAY WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL

September 28, 2015 by evebushman

Southern California’s Largest Food and Wine Festival Raises a Glass to Celebrate its

12-Year Anniversary

San Diego, CA – The San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival returns to America’s Finest City November 15-22, 2015, and is bigger and better than ever. Ticket sales have officially launched for the 12^th annual festival, and co-producer Michelle Metter says that food, wine, and local enthusiasts can expect to see exciting new additions throughout the week as well as the return of festival classics such as the iconic Grand Tasting and signature Taco TKO Fish Taco Competition.

“The city of San Diego is a hub for culinary tourism, and is home to a selection of the nation’s best restaurants, breweries, chefs, sommeliers and beyond,” continued Metter. “Each year, the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival showcases our city’s best talent, and allows over 10,000 guests from around the world to indulge in an epicurean experience of a lifetime.”

The San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival is an international showcase of the world’s premier wines and spirits, chefs and culinary personalities, and gourmet foods. The week-long experience celebrates San Diego’s vibrant culinary community with over 100 citywide events, wine and cooking classes, chef dinners, and multiple tasting events throughout the week. The Festival’s legendary Grand Tasting, presented by Lexus, transforms the beautiful San Diego Bay into a food lover’s paradise, featuring over 200 wineries, breweries and spirits from around the world, 70 of San Diego’s best restaurants, and 10,000 wine and food aficionados from across the nation.

Additionally the Festival attracts celebrated chefs from across the country, including host of the 1970s PBS television series Cooking Mexican, Rick Bayless; James Beard award-winning chef, Gale Gand; Antonin Careme medal holder, Suzette Gresham; Iron Chef America winner, Katsuya Fukushima; authors of Talk With Your Mouth Full, The Hearty Boys; Executive Chef for Cooking Light, Anna Bullet; Maître Cuisinier De France, Bernard Guillas; Chef of Bracero Cocina de Raiz, Javier Plascencia; Chef and Owner of Común Kitchen & Tavern, Chad White, and the 2014 San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival Chef of the Fest Winner, Duvinh Ta, Executive Chef of Jake’s Del Mar.

Local culinary standouts also fill out the roster of chef all-stars, including: Steve de Barril, Executive Chef and Partner, Seasons 52; Adam Gunderson, Executive Chef, The Oceanaire Seafood Room; Trevor Chappell, Executive Chef, The Barrel Room; Priscilla Curiel, Chef and Manager, Talavera Azul; Mark Kropczynski, Executive Chef, Grant Grill; Giorgio Lo Verde, Chef, Il Fornaio Coronado; Jason McLeod, Executive Chef / Owner, Ironside Fish & Oyster; John Medall, Executive Chef, The Patio Restaurant Group; James Montejano, Executive Chef, The MED at La Valencia; Anthony Sinsay, Executive Chef, Duke’s La Jolla; Amy DiBiase, Executive Chef, Tidal; Steve Stawinski, Executive Chef, Creekside Grill; Chef Kappa, Executive Chef, Bang Bang; Kimberly Kramer, Executive Chef, Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa; Giorgio Lo Verde, Executive Chef, Il Fornaio Coronado; Sam Kambo, Executive Chef, Royal India; Leticia Gonzalez, Chef, Uptown Tavern; Jarrod Moiles, Executive Chef, Veladora; Kevin Templeton, Executive Chef, barleymash, and many more!

New this year, the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival has partnered with SommCon – a four-day educational conference for wine, beer and spirit professionals as well as serious enthusiasts. Held November 18-21, 2015, this new partnership gives festival attendees access to over 50 new tasting and educational experiences led by the brightest minds in the business. Committed to enhancing the “business of wine,” the educational content featured at SommCon was designed by a team of over 25 of the wine industry’s top professionals who have joined together to form “Team SommCon.”

The San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival offers several ways for epicurean enthusiasts to indulge in the most decadent culinary experience of the year, including all-inclusive ticket packages that offer overall savings, and feature hotel accommodations as well as admission to a selection of the food and wine festival’s premier events. Discounted accommodations are available at the Manchester Grand Hyatt, hotel reservations and ticket packages can be reserved by calling, 877.385.9595.

To preview the schedule of events and featured celebrities visit the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival online at www.sandiegowineclassic.com. Events, personalities and participating wineries and restaurants are updated daily.

SAN DIEGO BAY WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL

The 12^th Annual San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival is an international showcase of the world’s premier wine and spirits producers, chefs and culinary personalities, and gourmet foods. Held November 15-22, 2015 the event benefits culinary arts and enology scholarships awarded by The American Institute of Wine & Food and the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. Over 200 wineries, breweries and spirit companies and 70 of San Diego’s top fine dining restaurants will participate in the 2015 Festival. For more information visit www.sandiegowineclassic.com. Produced by World of Wine Events and Fast Forward Event Productions. For more information call 619-312-1212.

ASOMBROSO FINE TEQUILAS UNVEILS A NEW ANEJO: “The Collaboration” (EVE’S TASTING NOTES BELOW)

November 25, 2014 by evebushman

“The Collaboration”

ASOMBROSO FINE TEQUILAS UNVEILS 11-YEAR OLD DOUBLE BARRELED ANEJO, RESTED IN SILVER OAK AMERICAN OAK BARRELS

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA. – AsomBroso Tequila has announced the latest edition to their Ultra-Premium Fine Line of Tequila’s – one of a kind Ultra-Premium 11 Year Old, Double Barreled, Cabernet Sauvignon Anejo rested exclusively in Silver Oak American Oak barrels.

Ricardo Gamarra, owner and Master Distiller of AsomBroso Tequila, explains: “We approached Silver Oak because of their exclusive use of American white oak barrels. Our Tequila is rested in barrels from around the world, and resting this tequila with the Silver Oak American oak barrels has produced an absolute masterpiece!”

Elegantly housed in a Crystal Decanter, hand made by Italian artist Luciano Gambaro, displayed in a finely polished Humidor and resting on a laser engraved custom pedestal, this one of a kind, limited release, 11 Year Old Cabernet Sauvignon Anejo is as stunning visually as it is on the palate – and will be available for the 2014 holiday season.

Visit us on the web at: www.atequila.com to order.

Eve’s Tasting Notes

Color – Rust to golden brown.

Aroma – Macadamia nut, caramel, eggnog, surprising, with very little burn.

Flavor – Toasted pine nuts, quality brandy flavor, sweet toasty finish.

Pairing – Maybe it’s the time of year, but just a tablespoon or two of this in Eggnog would rock.

Conclusion – Like a fine brandy, this Tequila deserves to be slowly sipped.

(My previous Asombroso review, of the El Platino, Reposado and Tequila Extra Anejo, can be read here: http://www.westranchbeacon.com/category_view.php?catg=5&id=3194)

American Oak Barrels

The use of American Oak is a hallmark of Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon. To ensure the long term availability of American oak barrels, Silver Oak formed a partnership with A & K Cooperage in 2000. Located in Higbee, Missouri, A & K Cooperage is a small, family-owned company that has produced premium barrels for over 30 years. It takes 80 years to grow an American White Oak tree to maturity and another 2 years to properly age the wood. From there, the wood is toasted to exact specifications and handcrafted into a 59 gallon barrel.

AsomBroso ships the barrels to their distillery in Mexico, where they are filled with the AsomBroso “Vintage: 11 Year Old Extra Anejo, which then rests for an additional 3 to 6 months, or until Master distiller Ricardo Gamarra determines it has reached the right complexity.

Ricardo goes on to explain: “Our ‘Vintage’ 11 Year Old Extra Aged Anejo won Best of the Best by the Robb Report and has won multiple Gold Medals. Rested in French Oak, housed in a decanter designed after the chandelier in the Bellagio lobby called “Fiori de Como” by world renowned glass sculptor Dale Chihuly, “Vintage 11 Year Old Anejo is a gem all unto itself and was the oldest Anejo of its time”. The resting of my “Vintage: 11 Year Old Anejo in Silver Oak’s American oak barrels is exquisite!

“The Collaboration” is a limited Edition

To order visit us online at: www.atequila.com

Retail: $1,800

Along with our latest Double Barrel Rested Anejo “The Collaboration”, we also have “El Carbonzado” (Double Barrel Rested in Tennessee Whisky Barrels), “Del Porto” Double Barrel Rested in Port Barrels from Portugal) and our still resting “Black Pearl”.

Agave Club

The Agave Club was created so that Ricardo could keep in direct contact with the most important side of his business, his customers.

The Agave Club offers an exclusive membership, keeping all members up to date with current tequila trends, offering tequila 101 classes as well as periodic specials for the entire AsomBroso product line.

There are a number of ways new members can sign up: go to www.atequila.com and fill out the online application, fill out and send in the application card that comes in each bottle of tequila or by scanning the QR code with a smart phone.

AsomBroso – dedicated to the art and science of tequila

AsomBroso, owned by California Tequila, LLC., headquartered in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, is proud to be known as the producer of “The World’s most Exclusive Tequila.” No other Mexican distillery can make that claim. The company is family owned, with the distillery located in the town of Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico. The AsomBroso line of tequila includes their award-winning El Platino, Which won “Top Tequila and double Gold Medals at the San Francisco world spirits Competition; La Rosa, their “pink” Reposado tequila made by resting the El Platino in Bordeaux wine barrels from France, Gold Medal winner and was the first Pink Tequila in the world; 5 Year Old Extra Anejo Gran Reserva tequila was voted “Best of the Best” by Robb Report Magazine and awarded numerous Gold and Double Gold medals; and their 11 Year Old Anejo, which also won the “Best of the Best” award from the Robb Report Magazine as well as numerous Gold and Double Gold medals; The limited release last Christmas El Carbonzado; the just released Del Porto and soon to be released: The Collaboration, The Black Pearl and a tequila rested beer with our 11 Year Old Anejo barrels produced by Stone Brewery in San Diego, California.

For more information about the company, go to www.atequila.com

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

ANNUAL FUNDRAISER FOR ELDERHELP OF SAN DIEGO RETURNS ON APRIL 21, 2012 WITH WINE & DINE: PROHIBITION

April 16, 2012 by evebushman

Proceeds from ElderHelp’s Wine & Dine Fundraising Event Benefit Low Income and Frail Seniors Living in Their Own Homes

ElderHelp announces dates for its 15th annual Wine & Dine fundraising event set to take place on Saturday, April 21, from 7:00 – 11:00 pm at The Westin Gaslamp Quarter. Wine & Dine is a dancing, drinking and dining extravaganza that features premier regional wines and beers, specialty crafted cocktails and cuisine from San Diego’s finest restaurants. Proceeds from the event enables ElderHelp, a San Diego-based non-profit, to provide support services to San Diego’s growing population of seniors to help them remain independent in their own homes, said Leane Marchese, Executive Director of ElderHelp.

“Last year’s event was highly successful, raising over $100,000 to provide services for seniors who need our help most,” added Marchese. “Wine & Dine promises to be even bigger and better than before and with this year’s exciting new theme and location, we’re confident that we will be able to top last year’s numbers and provide even more support to San Diego’s growing senior community.”

This year’s theme of “prohibition” invites guests to take a step back in time to the roaring 1920s for an evening of debauchery, where guests will get to look and act the part of gangsters, flappers and silent film stars while shimmying to the sounds of the 1920s. The event features a silent auction and wine raffle with items perfect for the wine enthusiast, live music entertainment and more.

Wine & Dine offers corporate and private sponsorships, including opportunities such as naming of tasting rooms and stages with signage, signature cocktails, media and marketing promotions, private cabana seating, and much more. Sponsorships will provide direct aid to ElderHelp in their fundraising efforts with profits going towards the organization’s mission to help seniors remain independent at home.

Tickets will be available for purchase online on January 17 for $150 per person in advance and $200 at the door. For tickets or more information about the event, visit www.elderhelpofsandiego.org. For information regarding sponsorships opportunities, please call Sarah Shepard at 619-284-9281, ext. 112 or sshepard@elderhelpofsandiego.org.

ELDERHELP
Founded in 1973, ElderHelp is one of San Diego’s oldest and most trusted organizations assisting local seniors. ElderHelp is a nonprofit organization comprised of professionals and community volunteers committed to offering quality social services that help seniors live independently in their own homes. Last year, ElderHelp assisted nearly 5,000 seniors throughout San Diego County. Visit www.elderhelpofsandiego.org or call 619-284-9281 to learn more or to sign up for services. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.