Eve's Wine 101

Wine and Spirit Goals for 2019, NOT Just About Drinking

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Thinking that in my ten years of writing about wine and spirits, I must’ve set some goals, written them down and shared them in past articles. Did a quick Google search and found yea, sounds familiar as I did it once, just last year, in the column titled: Why Not Have…Drinking Goals for 2018? And No, it’s not too late to set them!

So I gave my 2018 article a gander, to see how many of my goals were met, to see if I should even attempt goals for 2019. The first goal, to learn about Mezcal, wasn’t a complete failure as I got to taste at least one in 2018. So that goal has a continuance for this year. I also went to more wine bars this year…or maybe I should say visited one wine bar more: Newhall Press Room. So that goal was partially met.

I made it to the Japanese Food and Restaurant Expo again, co-hosted our first Wine on the Roof and fourth Cocktails on the Roof for the WiSH Education Foundation, visited Salt Creek Grille and had wine, attended another Peatin’ Meetin’ organized by the LA Scotch Club and didn’t die…

But I still need my WSET Level 2 in spirits to be offered hands on as online classes are still the only type being offered. So I may have to give in on that goal, bite the bullet and try the online course this year.

Didn’t make it back to Utah or Denver for more spirits, but I did make it to SCOTLAND for plenty of Whisky!

Attended the tastings and classes at the Universal Whisky Experience in Las Vegas – which we plan to attend again this year in April.

So what’s up for 2019:

As the West Ranch Beacon* website shut down earlier this year, removing me from one weekly column commitment after about a decade, I thought I should look around for something new.

I can add more Eve Bushman Consulting Clients – so if you own a bar, restaurant, winery or wine bar and need some marketing ideas email me at Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com. My business partner Michael Perlis and I have been successfully consulting and marketing for our clients for many years now.

Also thinking about trying something new…starting out as a small Brand Ambassador might be a good fit, though I’d need some training as that part of the industry is very new to me. I have plenty of experience with wine and spirits via the numerous events we’ve created and hosted, as well as the many we’ve marketed, and have enough wine and spirit education under my belt to be able to easily learn about a brand that is looking for representation in Santa Clarita Valley, San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles. If you hear of anything email me at Eve@EveWine101.com

So, those these new goals aren’t drinking goals, they all still involve the industry I’ve been involved with for over 10 years. I’m not going anywhere! Regardless of what I may add to my workload to make up for the closure of the West Ranch Beacon, know that Eve Wine 101 and Eve Bushman Consulting will continue as they have for many more years to come.

*If you hadn’t finished reading a particular article of mine on the Beacon, or are looking for my archived articles, please email me: Eve@EveWine101.com. I have all of my articles saved. Those over three years old were shared again, under the title “Vintage Eve” on Tuesdays on https://www.EveWine101.com. Newer articles, including the last three I did in the Scotland series, I can email out as word docs to whoever wants them. These will also be re-purposed on EveWine101 on Tuesdays within the next three years.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits. 

Perlis Picks: 2nd annual Masters of Taste

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Unlike some sports, such as baseball, somewhat inclement weather does not keep football players off the field. This is as true at the Pasadena Rose Bowl as it is anywhere else.

And like football players, attendees of the 2nd annual Masters of Taste did not let a little rain keep them off the Rose Bowl field.

With once again all proceeds [expected to be over half a million dollars] raised by the event going to benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a wide variety of Food, Beverage and Sweets Masters were on hand to satisfy the intrepid attendees who braved the overcast skies for a great cause.

Eve has already shared her reporting of the event here so I won’t fill up this article with a list of participants.

While I wandered the event, my wonderful wife Karen kept showing up with some great food to keep me going. Here are her comments about the food…

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Beef Tataki from Alexander’s Steakhouse of Pasadena: One of Michael’s favorites

Pork Belly Ramen by Ramen Tatsunoya: Extremely satisfying.

Handmade Mushroom Stuffed Pasta in Red Pepper Sauce by Celestino’s of Pasadena: I enjoyed this immensely. A great combination of flavors

Oxtail Dumplings from Bone Kettle: They melted in your mouth, absolutely delicious.

Hache LA: Angus burger sliders gave Michael and me the energy to make it around the Rose Bowl.

Spire Works of Eagle Rock and Westwood: Beef rice bowls were scrumptious.

Mama Lion: Uni appetizers were amazing.

Momed: Lamb shwarama sandwiches were extremely flavorful.

 

And here are a few standouts for me in the wine and beer category…

Ascension Cellars – this Paso Robles based winery continues to shine. I focused on the new releases at their table – the 2016 Siren Rose was very tasty; the 2015 Silver Blanc blend of Marsanne, Roussanne, Chardonnay and Viognier was unusual and delicious. The 2014 Mayhem Syrah [with a little Petit Verdot and also a small amount of Roussanne – instead of the traditional Viognier] was outstanding.

tercero wines – okay, I did not actually taste Larry Schaffer’s wines this time. He was pouring in the section for sponsors only. I did reach over and shake his hand and he was going to sneak me some wine over the fence when he was finished pouring for the sponsor who had come over to his table – you know, for reporting purposes. But, someone [and you know who you are] told me that there was also a tercero booth in the main area. So, I left in search of that booth, but I had been given misinformation. I do taste Larry’s wine often [actually very recently] and I can tell you they are worth seeking out.

Iron Triangle Brewing Co. – located in the growing and trendy Los Angeles arts district. The Dark Ale is well worth a trip to their taproom.

San Fernando Brewing Co. – loved the red ale. For our Santa Clarita Valley readers, this is an especially short trip to the taproom. You should definitely check them out.

As I had mentioned, now that we are actually experiencing some weather in Southern California, there was a threat of rain that afternoon. The cloud cover kept things cool and when there was one cloudburst while we were in attendance, it actually served to make things more fun, seeming to bring people closer together.

If you were there, what did you do when the rain started?

For us, we just happened to be visiting our friends at Golden Star Vineyards, Lee, Helen and Heather Williams. And when the sky opened up briefly, we just joined them under their tent and took advantage of the opportunity to taste more of their wines. Really loved their Chardonnay, the Viognier [in a blue bottle, no less] and the rose of Tempranillo. A real treat was a barrel sample of 2015 Syrah – aged in 100% new American oak, I was concerned that the oak might overpower the wine, but the fruit shone through. And their signature Purple Haze zinfandel-based red blend is always a favorite and was a great way to wrap up our day as well.

See you next year, rain or shine!

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.

15TH ANNUAL SAN FERNANDO VALLEY FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL, MAY 13, 2017

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THE LOS ANGELES MISSION COLLEGE (LAMC) FOUNDATION HOSTS 15th ANNUAL SAN FERNANDO VALLEY FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

Theme – “International Cuisine”- Fundraiser at Los Angeles Mission College Supporting Student Scholarships

SYLMAR, CA – The Los Angeles Mission College (LAMC) Foundation will be hosting the 15th Annual San Fernando Valley Food & Wine Festival on Saturday, May 13, 2017.

sfvfw_containerBG4_1900x1169This signature event raises crucial funds for our scholarship programs which provides a local financial support system for students and has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships, thanks to the success of events like this.   It will be an exciting and fun-filled day to include exquisite cuisine prepared by our award-winning Culinary Arts Institute, wonderful wines, a silent auction, live entertainment and much more!

Mayor Eric Garcetti has personally confirmed his attendance.  We expect many other civic and community leaders to attend and so should you!

“San Fernando Valley Food & Wine Festival is a yearly must-attend event for the San Fernando Valley.”

This year’s Annual Food & Wine Festival is expected to draw hundreds of guests in the beautiful Los Angeles Mission College Culinary Arts Institute Building on the afternoon of May 13 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

With a theme of “International Cuisine” attendees will enjoy cuisine from around the world, pared with wines to complement each dish.  In addition, we will be hosting a silent auction, pastry pavilion, and live entertainment provided by local artists.

Meet our amazing faculty and staff of master chefs, including Culinary Arts Department Chair, Chef Louis Eguaras. His past experience includes: Executive Chef of Presidential Culinary Services; Author of bestselling book “101 Things I Learned in Culinary School,” and former White House Chef at Camp David Presidential Retreat and The White House.

General admission tickets are $65 and VIP tickets are $150.  All tickets will include a beautiful souvenir stemmed wine glass to commemorate the event.

VIP tickets will include: Lanyards which allow entrance into the VIP lounge area; A private tour of our state-of-the-art kitchens in action; autographed copy of Chef Louis Eguaras’s bestselling book “101 Things I learned in Culinary School.”; special foods to be served in VIP area only one hour before the admission of the general public; select champagnes served in VIP area only

To purchase tickets, please visit http://sfvfw.com/  or call: 818 364-7600 ext. 7111

About the Los Angeles College Foundation: The Los Angeles Mission College Foundation is the support arm of the college, made up of community members and civic and business leaders. The mission of Los Angeles Mission College Foundation is to raise funds and provide stewardship for funds already raised, through annual scholarship drives, special events, grant applications and business partnerships. Our goal is to provide a local financial support system to needy and deserving students entering and continuing their education at Mission College. Our vision is to improve the quality of life in our community by providing support for individuals from diverse backgrounds to pursue quality accessible educational programs and services.

Sylmar Olive Festival

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Sylmar Olive Festival is the largest 2 day fun family festival in the San Fernando valley. Live music from 70s, 80’s and top 40 hits. Olive products, kids area, live chalk art.
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Expanded beer garden with activities, and featuring the olive michelada.

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Music Line up:

  • Impulse band
  • The Black Outs
  • Frank Giron Band
  • Animato
  • The Flux Capacitors
  • The Walking Pheonix (Jonny Cash Cover Band)

For more information please visit us a www.sylmarolivefestival.com.

* Please note that purchased tickets are a one time use at the event. All onlne tickets, wristbands and vouchers will be available at will call.

FAQs

Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?

You  will need your ID for will call and Beer Garden.

What are my transport/parking options getting to the event?

Free parking is availbale at  El Carriso Park as well at Mission College Parking Structure

What can/can’t I bring to the event?

Feel free to bring your own lawn chair or blankets.  No pets allowed at event.

Where can I contact the organizer with any questions?

For questions or concerns please conact Edward at edward@sylmarolivefestival.com

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

Printed and or email via smartphone is preffered. We will have an updated will call list but will require valid ID for verifaction.

What is the refund policy?

No refunds or exchanges.

The name on the registration/ticket doesn’t match the attendee. Is that okay?

Please provide a valid printed copy or digital image of registered ID for validation. Or please contact Luis at luis@sylmarolivefestival.com to swap information prior to event date.

When
Where
13100 Hubbard St – 13100 Hubbard Street, Los Angeles, CA 91342 – View Map

THE FRONT YARD – Finally! By Michael Perlis

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I first reported on the restaurant at the The Beverly Garland Hotel in early 2014.

At that time, Chef Warren Schwartz was taking advantage of the planned renovation of the hotel and restaurant to do a little experimenting. Under the aptly named Warren’s Blackboard, he turned out an array of seasonal daily specials that quickly turned this restaurant in North Hollywood into one of our favorite go-to places in the San Fernando Valley. Of course, the restaurants top-notch staff, headed by Food & Beverage Director Pete Alles, only enhanced the experience.

20150620_210116In the fall of 2014, Warren’s Blackboard closed as planned, in anticipation of the several month-long renovation and eventual re-opening as The Front Yard. But plans change and as Warren’s the restaurant was entering its hiatus, Warren the chef was presented with the proverbial “offer he couldn’t refuse” to become Culinary Director of food preparation and delivery service Munchery. [Hopefully, more on this in a future article.] The parting was amicable and the search was on for a new chef to join the team, with plenty of time to find one to carry on what Warren had started.

And find one they did: Chef Chris Turano cut his culinary chops with extensive experience in Chicago and came to California to become Chef de Cuisine at the Bacara Resort in Santa Barbara, having earned the position by winning “Chef Wanted” on Food Network. Note to Eve’s Wine 101 readers: Chef Chris has his Court of Master Sommeliers Level 1 Certification.

My wife Karen and I had occasion to attend the hotel’s grand opening party to celebrate the renovation. Now called simply “The Garland”, the hotel has an overall brightness and elegance that extends from the lobby to the grounds to the suites. We also recently ate at The Front Yard, which is supposed to be what this article is all about.

Let me start with just a “Wow.” Chef Chris has created an amazing menu designed to not only satisfy the demands of discerning Angelenos but also to give hotel guests a great taste of what Southern California is capable of.

What we had:

Dungeness Crab Roll

Albarcore Tuna Taco

Triple B salad [Burrata, baby Beets, gooseberries, sherry and cocoa nibs]

Grilled Octopus [with pickled ramp aioli, chickpeas, radish salad]

Broccolini Tempura [ponzu, furikake]

Fig and Proscuitto Flabread [fresh figs, shaved fennel, rucola, white sauce]

Mary’s Chicken [Parisian gnocchi, sweet pea, pea tendril, natural jus]

Wild Halibut [cauliflower romenesco, pickled beech mushroom, blond gastrique]

Linguine with Dungeness Crab [fava beans, aji amarillo, lemon]

Across the board, we were struck not only by the freshness of the ingredients [which is to be expected] but also by the interesting combinations that created some unexpected yet delicious flavors. Impossible to pick favorites, but as someone who doesn’t necessarily go crazy over vegetables, that broccolini just had me munching and munching and munching. Other real standouts for me were the beet salad, octopus, chicken and halibut, although that is in no way to diminish the other dishes.

I’d be remiss to not mention the house made desserts. As of our visit they were not listed on the menu [they should be by now] but included a take on strawberry shortcake, a panne cotta with cabernet sorbet, and a sweet/salty butterscotch pudding accompanied with seasoned popcorn. Save room for these!

The wine list has a great variety of offerings and price ranges. It will change as time goes on and they bring in new selections, but here is a small sample from the list that was available when we were there:

Billecart Salmon, Brut, Rose

Dom Perignon Brut

Bonny Doon Albarino

Jaffurs Grenache Blanc

Bernardus Chardonnay

Failla Chardonnay

Babcock Pinot Noir

Meiomi Pinot Noir

Flora Springs Trilogy

Ampelos Syrache [we had this, it was great]

Bokisch Garnacha

Stags’ Leap Winery Petite Syrah

Cakebread Cabernet Sauvignon

Daou Cabernet Sauvignon

 

The above is just a sample. There are lots more. The by-the-glass program is excellent as well, along with a great selection of beers and craft cocktails.

Corkage is $20, free on Sundays and Mondays.

As of press time, the remodel is almost complete and the restaurant is in somewhat of a soft-opening mode. What has been done to the place has come out stunning and there are just a few tweaks to go. Service is as good as before, maybe even better. They are definitely ready for your business. Come hungry.

The Front Yard

4222 Vineland Ave. North Hollywood, CA 91602 at The Garland

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

Local Brew News: 8one8 Brewing UPDATE

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TARGET OPENING DATE 8-18-15

Some of you have followed us for years, months, weeks, days and we appreciate all the support! We’ve been busy working to get the 8one8 Brewery open. Check out our blog to read and see what we’ve been up to -> http://818brewing.com/home/

818backWe’re also excited to announce the 8one8 Brewing Founders Club! We’ve been overwhelmed with support and excitement during this hectic time of opening up our small batch Nano Brewery in the San Fernando Valley! The process to open is a journey and we want our early supporters to have the chance to be part of something special: Our Founders Club! This is the opportunity to join us and become a founding member. This club will be available for a limited time with limited number of members (total of 818 members)

 

CLUB BENEFITS:

** One Limited edition 8one8 Brewing Founding Member t-shirt with personalized number (1of818, 2of818 etc.) Will be available 1-2 weeks after order.

** One 22oz bomber of a limited edition special batch release from the brewery (we will brew and age this batch once the brewery is officially and legally opened) Available 3 months after opening!

** One membership card good for 10% discount on all brewery purchases! Events and special releases will be available to members first. Valid for one year

** Name mention on website and at the brewery location as a founding member.

 

One time membership dues of only $38.18

LIMITED TIME – LIMITED MEMBERS – JOIN TODAY AND BECOME A FOUNDING MEMBER! SHIRT-MOCKUP

CLICK HERE TO JOIN! -> http://bit.ly/8one8_FOUNDERS_CLUB

Bryan and Derrick thank you for the support and we would appreciate passing this info about 8one8 Brewing to friends, family, co-workers and your favorite local watering hole! CHEERS!
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8one8 Brewing, LLC
8951 De Soto Ave.
Canoga Park, CA 91304