Newhall Refinery NEW Reserve Wine List is a Wish List For Everyone

October 27, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Several factors should go into play when creating a wine list. As a consumer we may not be aware of all of them. As a wine writer I get to learn some of them. Here’s what I learned and what you can now expect from the new Reserve Wine List at Newhall Refinery.

Simon and Shannon Mee, owners of Newhall Refinery, already had re-vamped their existing Wine List with the help of Guy Lelarge, formerly of Valencia Wine Company. Lelarge introduced several new wines – that have become new favorites – while removing some older wines from the list. But it doesn’t end here for the Mees and Lelarge, as Newhall Refinery is one of the most cutting edge restaurants in the Santa Clarita Valley (many would argue that they are the most cutting edge) they wanted to create a reserve wine list that would encompass classic Napa wineries as well as global favorites, wines with high critic scores, name recognition and pair the best with their ever-changing fare.

One look at the new Reserve Wine List (below) and wine aficionados will notice a Far Niente vertical, 2010, 2011 and 2012 – of their Cave Collection Cabernet Sauvignon. They may also notice that the selections also include global choices – notably France and Italy – to pair with the dinner menu, Chef Dustin’s weekend menus and of course, the upcoming holiday parties and special events in The Cellar at Refinery.

These new reserve wines are now safely tucked away, in a temperature controlled wine fridge in The Cellar, near to the decorative racks of wines that will still be available from the latest wine menu.

There will be three by-the-glass selections, all Napa Cabernet Sauvignons: the 2015 Duckhorn, 2014 Silver Oak and a 2012 Heitz Trailside. How can they possibly open such nice bottles just for a glass? The Mees have purchased a Coravin Model 2, which is a unit that extracts wine from the bottle without removing the cork. Usually winery representatives and distributors use this model. Lucky for us, the Mees know the value of fresh wine as well.

Lastly, there are only a select number of these wines that are currently available, so don’t wait too long to come in and try a new dinner pairing at Newhall Refinery!

My own opinion of this new Reserve Wine List: it’s incredible! And now we both now know – and can appreciate – what should go into the selection process.

The Reserve List

PINOT NOIR

Patz & Hall ‘Gap’s Crown’, Sonoma Coast, 2015

Sea Smoke ‘Southing’, Santa Rita Hills, 2014

Sea Smoke ‘Ten’, Santa Rita Hills, 2015

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

Bella Union, Napa, 2015

Duckhorn, Napa, 2014

Silver Oak, Alexander Valley, 2014

Heitz ‘Trailside’, Napa, 2012

Nickel & Nickel ‘Rock Cairn’, Oakville, 2015

Caymus ‘Special Selection’, Napa, 2014

Far Niente ‘Cave Collection’, Napa, 2010

Far Niente ‘Cave Collection’, Napa, 2011

Far Niente ‘Cave Collection’, Napa, 2012

Stag’s Leap ‘SLV’, Napa, 2015

RED BLENDS

Flora Springs ‘Trilogy’, Napa, 2015

Miner ‘The Oracle’, Napa, 2013

Opus One Meritage, Oakville, 2014

Joseph Phelps ‘Insignia’ Meritage, Napa, 2014

Dominus Meritage, Napa, 2014

ITALIAN WINES

Pio Cesare Barolo, Piedmont 2013

Antinori ‘Guado Al Tasso’,

Bolgheri Superiore D.O.C, 2013

FRENCH WINES

Joseph Drouhin ‘Vosne-Romanee’, Burgundy, 2016

Chateau Magdelaine, Saint Emilion, Bordeaux 2011 Chateau Lynch Bages, Pauillac, Bordeaux, 2010

PORT WINES

Dow’s 30 Year Tawny Port

Grahams Vintage Port, 1983

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. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Frank Ostini Announces Hitching Post’s First Tasting Room to Open in July

June 10, 2018 by evebushman Leave a Comment

BUELLTON, California – Frank Ostini, owner/chef of the Hitching Post 2 in Buellton, California, announces he has acquired the lease for 420 East Highway 246, also in Buellton, a property adjacent to the restaurant. Hitching Post Wines is expected to open its first- ever wine tasting room at the location in July 2018. Hitching Post 2 restaurant is also developing a take-out/delivery concept to offer a limited lunch menu at the new Hitching Post tasting room and picnic grounds.

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From Hitching Post II Restaurant’s Facebook page.

“Buellton has been our home base for Hitching Post Wines since 1986, and we are thrilled to now have a location that can focus on wine tasting and retail sales in the center of Santa Barbara Wine Country,” says Chef and Winemaker Frank Ostini.

Frank Ostini and Gray Hartley first made wine in 1979. The Hitching Post brand was born in 1984. They have made these wines at Au Bon Climat/Qupe, Central Coast Wine Services and Terravant Wine Company in Buellton with a primary focus on Pinot Noir from many of the finest vineyards in the Santa Rita Hills and the Santa Maria Valley. Winemaker Gray Hartley adds, “In this new location we are excited to feature many of our rare single-vineyard bottlings and special older vintages of Hitching Post Wines.”

Winemakers Gray Hartley and Frank Ostini | photo credit Jeremy Ball

ABOUT HITCHING POST WINES:

Hitching Post Wines are the creation of Gray Hartley and Frank Ostini, two friends that have been making wines in Santa Barbara County, California since 1979. Long before Hollywood discovered the winemaking landmark and its great wines, Gray Hartley, a former Alaskan salmon fisherman and Frank Ostini, the chef and owner of the famed Hitching Post 2 Restaurant in Buellton, were brought together through their love of wine and winemaking. Over the years their backyard hobby has turned into a highly acclaimed winemaking enterprise. In 1981 they discovered the wonder of Pinot Noir grapes; since then Pinot has been their primary focus. A great example of these wines is the Hitching Post Highliner. The “Highliner” is the best fishermen in the fleet, and this name honors the great men of the Alaskan Salmon Fishery alongside whom Gray Hartley worked for 28 years. A special wine, Highliner is meant to be the “best of their fleet” of Pinot Noirs. Along with ten selections of Pinot Noir, Hitching Post produces a dry Rosé called Pinks, a Syrah, and a Merlot-based blend named Gen Red.

Then came Sideways in 2004, the Academy Award® winning film set in Santa Barbara wine country, prominently featuring The Hitching Post 2 and Hitching Post Wines. Since Sideways exposure in the film, Hitching Post wines have gained in popularity. Currently, the winery has 1200 barrels and produces about 17,000 cases a year. Hartley and Ostini strive to create flavorful handcrafted wines that possess poise and balance, putting a slice of Santa Barbara in each glass, and a piece of their soul in every bottle of Hitching Post. Hitching Post Wines are enjoyed by an audience that reaches around the globe who admire Santa Barbara wines for their lively refreshing fruit, and their complexities of earth and spice. Hitching Post Wines are produced by Hartley Ostini Vintners, Buellton, California.

Ampelos Makes a Pinot Noir for the Golden Globes, by Barbara Barrielle

March 31, 2016 by evebushman Leave a Comment

In association with Santa Barbara Tourism, Peter and Rebecca Work and their renowned Ampelos Winery created a memorable Pinot Noir for the red carpet “Secret Room” event and gifting suite. It is always a surprise when these promotional wines are made with such care and attention. Really a hit of the entire event and Rebecca was even there to pour and chat with celebs!

Not only were celebrities surprised when they received both a bottle of excellent Pinot Noir but Santa Barbara Tourism threw in an envelope containing surprises luring them to the wineries and restaurants of Santa Barbara County like hotel stays and free tastings.

Ampelos is Greek for “vine” and the Works actually have a small inn on the island of Folegandros, where they married. In the late nineties, they acquired 82 acres in what is now the Santa Rita Hills appellation.

Although the West Coast property maybe have been their retirement, a life-changing moment when a meeting was canceled on the morning of September 11, 2001 at the World Trade Center led them to pursue their wine-making dream earlier than projected. Their son, Don Schroder, now winemaker at the famed Seasmoke, was already in the business and led his parents to make fantastic Pinot Noirs and Rhone varietals.

Recently, Peter Work has guided actor Kurt Russell in his winemaking, so Hollywood intersects Ampelos Cellars in more than one way!

Gifting suites are abundant during awards season and one of the busiest is the Secret Room at the hip SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills. As celebrities make their way around the room, they visit representatives from different luxury brands that “gift” them with everything from cosmetics to jewelry to leather goods.

I attend as media. Although I act and produce, I am not quite a celeb. I do host red carpet interviews and hence my invitation to this shindig. Aside from my gift bottle of Ampelos’ Golden Globe wine, other standouts were a dinner at Santa Anita’s Chandelier Chef Series, Tesla rides and goodies, Adore and Dermaie skincare including anti-aging (a must in Hollywood), Oleavicin skin care from olive leaves and a gorgeous leather travel organizer aptly named the TravelOrg. Check out the photo for all of the booty.

KITA Wines and the Camp 4 Vineyards of the Chumash Tribe, by Barbara Barrielle

August 20, 2015 by evebushman Leave a Comment

I must admit that, living in Healdsburg, I was mortified when an Indian casino was built into the pristine hills above neighboring Alexander Valley. And I still think River Rock Casino is an eyesore and does not belong perched on a hill overlooking vineyards.

Recently, I discovered a different side of the tribal gaming story and their involvement in wine when trying Kita Wines, “our valley oak” in the Chumash language of Samala. The cool twist on these well-made Central Coast wines is that the Chumash Tribe owns the vineyards and they funded the winery that is headed by Native American winemaker Tara Gomez with assistant winemaker Tymari Lore.

In 2010, the Santa Ynez branch of the Chumash Tribe bought 256 acres of vineyards originally planted by the legendary Fess Parker in 1999. Producing primarily Bordeaux and Rhône varietals at the Camp 4 vineyard, the Tribe sells most of their grapes to other producers but their ownership of the property at the gateway to Happy Canyon prompted the establishment of a Tribe-supported winery. Although she has the benefit of tribe support, Tara is clear that she worked hard to present a business plan to the tribal leaders and continues to have to prove her bottom line.

Tara Gomez studied Enology at Cal State Fresno and was one of only two women graduating in 1998 in the winemaking field. One of her earliest jobs was actually with Fess Parker Winery and this was followed by time in Paso Robles and in Europe honing her winemaking knowledge. She was an accomplished winemaker by 2010 when the Tribe helped her establish Kita Wines.

Kita has the advantage of their own vineyards for their Bordeaux and Rhônes varietals and blends but Tara sources what she considers the best in Santa Rita Hills for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Current Kita offerings include the hip Grenache Blanc and very crisp Sauvignon Blanc as well as T’AYA, “abalone shell” in native Samala language, blend of Marsanne, Roussane and Grenache Blanc which has stone fruit, floral notes and a bit of minerality on the nose which is followed by apricot and honey in the mouth and balanced acid throughout the finish. All whites are $22-24.

On the red side, the Samala word SP’EY means “flower” and this aptly describes Kita’s gorgeous blend of Grenache, Syrah and Carignane, the latter on of Tara Gomez’s favorite varietals. A lovely wine with elegant floral tones, blueberry and candied fruit that develops in long mouth filling flavors of berry, licorice and spice. Great balance and memorable for only $30.

Kita also makes outstanding Pinot Noirs from the popular Hilliard Bruce vineyard in Santa Rita Hills and Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Syrah from their own Camp 4. Spectacular offerings from an even better story that will only continue to get better with time. Kita wines are offered in tribal casinos throughout the U.S. which certainly raises the stakes of getting a decent glass of wine at the blackjack table!

LA is Thirsty for the Upcoming Pinot Wine Festival

July 8, 2015 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Beverly Hills, Calif. – Los Angeles welcomes the best of Pinot wines as wineLA is set to host

their first annual STARS of Pinot Wine Festival on Wednesday, August 19, 2015

at Sofitel Hotel in Beverly Hills.

Attendees can expect to taste some of the top artisan Pinot based wines from around the world. Wineries have been invited to participate from Italy, New Zealand, Chile and Oregon and of course from our own backyard, California: Santa Rita Hills, Santa Maria, Central Coast, Carneros, and Sonoma Coast. Tickets for wineLA’s Stars of Pinot WineFestival will include an elegant assortment of hors d’oeuvres and a number of lofty auction items to bid on. Auction items will range from $100 to $2,000. One hundred percent of silent auction proceeds will benefit TJ Martell Foundation, charity 501c3 raising money for Children’s Cancer Research.

STARS of Pinot will begin at 7:00p.m (6pm for the VIP). Advanced tickets may be purchased for $95 per person online or at the door for $125. There are a limited number of VIP 6:00pm admission tickets (includes full dinner buffet and Pinot Noir Panel tasting with noted experts and Masters of Wine) available for $150 per person (advanced ticket sale) or $200 at the door.

For more information about STARS of Pinot or to purchase tickets, call wineLA at 310-451-7600 or visit www.winela.com or http://www.winela.com/starsofpinot

About Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills

“Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills is a stunning hotel in LA offering elegant luxury accommodations and dramatic decor with an ambiance that combines see-and-be-seen excitement and the calm of an urban resort. Ideally situated on the corner of La Cienega and Beverly Boulevard, this West Hollywood hotel is conveniently located near Cedar Sinai Medical Center, Rodeo Drive, Melrose Avenue and Sunset Boulevard. Discover a unique blend of French fashion mixed with Hollywood glamour at this elegant hotel. Choose from 295 rooms on 10 floors including 26 suites and two Imperial Suites all featuring Sofitel’s luxurious feather top and duvet sleep system – SoBed.” Sofitel is located at 8555 Beverly Blvd. in Beverly Hills, CA.

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 hosts 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.

Vintners 5 Miler in Santa Barbara Wine Country on July 25

June 20, 2015 by evebushman Leave a Comment

VINTNERS 5 MILER
Sanford Winery
Saturday, July 25, 2015

The inaugural Vintners 5 Miler presented by the Santa Barbara Vintners Foundation is a unique trail run through the vineyards of Sanford Winery in the beautiful Santa Rita Hills. Along with the run, a family-friendly Finish Line Festival welcomes everyone of all ages to celebrate the coming harvest from Santa Barbara’s 5 AVA wine regions. Enjoy regional food, music from Dave Courtenay and the Castawaves, a kids fun zone and of course plenty of wine tasting! Proceeds of the event support the Vintners Foundation programming.

Register now > https://www.athletepath.com/santa-barbara-vintners-5-miler/2015-07-25

THE VINTNERS 5MILER RUN

The inaugural Vintners 5 Miler is Saturday, July 25, 2015 with the run beginning at 10am.

The Vintners 5 Miler is a unique trail race starting at the Sanford Winery Tasting Room parking lot, proceeding for 1.75 miles around the relatively flat lima bean field. Just before the 2-mile mark runners will head for the hills with 350 feet of elevation and be rewarded with one of the best views in the valley from the Sanford & Benedict estate. The final 2 miles, as runners head back to the finish line adjacent to the Sanford Winery Tasting Room, is primarily downhill with some light rolling hills.

Each mile will represent one of the five Santa Barbara County American Viticultural Areas (AVA):

Ballard Canyon
Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara
Santa Maria Valley
Sta. Rita Hills
Santa Ynez Valley

The course is open to all abilities with no-minimum finishing time requirements. Walkers are welcome.

Registration & Reward

You can register for the Vintners 5 Miler at Athletepath by clicking or copying the following link: https://www.athletepath.com/santa-barbara-vintners-5-miler/2015-07-25

Limited entries, so reserve your spot today!

With every registration, runners will receive unique inaugural event rewards:

Commemorative wine-stopper medal
Exclusive finisher t-shirts
Wine tasting complimentary for 21+ from Santa Barbara Vintners participating wineries
Regional food and beverages
Music by local artists David Courtenay and The Castawaves
Only registered run participants can invite & purchase “Festival Only”tickets for friends & family

Registration Pricing Schedule

Registration Type5 Mile Race (Wine Club)
5 Mile Race (Public)
Festival Only*
Kids Fun Zone (13 & under)

Before May 31$45
$55
$30
FREE

Before July 23$55
$65
$40
FREE

Race Day$65
$75
$50
FREE

Race Day

Packet pick-up will be available on Friday, July 24 at the Santa Barbara Running Co. in Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone on 110 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Registered participants can enjoy 10% off everything in the store on July 24. Packet pick-up as well as race day registration will be available beginning at 8:00am on Saturday, July 25 at Sanford Winery.

The Festival

The Vintners 5 Miler post-race Festival is a family-friendly event not only celebrating the accomplishments of all the runners, but the incredible wine, food & music that Santa Barbara County offers.

Festival highlights will include:

Wine tasting from Santa Barbara Vintners members
Regional food from Santa Barbara County purveyors
A kids’ fun zone
Local music provided by David Courtnenay & The Castawaves

Awards

Prizes will be awarded in the following timed categories:

Overall Male & Female Winners
Silver & Bronze Medal Finishers, Male & Female
Golf, Silver & Bronze for Male & Female age groups: 19 & under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-plus

Santa Barbara County Wine Club Competition

Member of a Wine Club? Awesome! During the registration process sign-up with your Wine Club for a $10 discount and a chance to represent the winning club in the following first two categories:

Most participants
Best average finishing time
Awesome Wine Club costumes

The Vintners

The Vintners 5 Miler was conceived by Sanford Winery’s Winemaker & General Manager, Steve Fennell. An avid runner, Steve dreamed of hosting a community inspired race in the beautiful Sta. Rita Hills. As a member of the Vintners Foundation Board, the idea was put in motion to host a unique event to benefit the Foundation and the local communities in which it serves.

Participating Wineries will be updated on a regular basis (alphabetical order):

Sanford Winery

Don’t miss this week’s STARS of California 2015

May 18, 2015 by evebushman Leave a Comment

STARS of California will be here next Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 at The Peninsula Hotel located at 9882 South Santa Monica Blvd. in Beverly Hills, CA.

Top “Artisan” California Wineries Set to Participate in SoCal’s Exclusive Wine Event

Beverly Hills, Calif. – The Peninsula Hotel and wineLA join together again to host the annual STARS of California Wine Festival on Wednesday, May 20. With 35 notable wineries set to participate in the festivities, The Peninsula Hotel will expect to welcome hundreds of wine enthusiasts in celebration of California’s most coveted wines.

Tickets —> https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stars-of-california-2015-tickets-13859625513

Your LINEUP:
6:15 PM – 7:00 PM: VIP Winemaker Presentation with Kosta Browne Winery, 6:15 PM Entrance ($150 advanced, $200 at the door)

Includes… ROBUST DINNER BUFFET (ONLY UNTIL 7 PM), VIP GIFT BAG, Full Event Access and Unlimited Tasting, PLUS Exclusive 6:30 PM VIP Presentation with Kosta Browne with the following wines:
– One Sixteen Chardonnay, Russian RIver Valley 2013
– VIP Tasting Only: Cirq Treehouse Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley 2012
– Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley 2013
– Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2013

7:00 PM – 9:30 PM: General Admission ($95 advanced, $125 after May 1, $150 at the door)

In addition to the wineries confirmed to attend wineLA’s annual Stars of California Wine Festival, tickets will include an elegant assortment of tray-passed hors d’oeuvres and a number of lofty auction items to bid on. Auction items will range from $100 to $2,000. One hundred percent of silent auction proceeds will benefit TJ Martell Foundation.

2015 Participants:

Keller Estates – Sonoma (Keller Winery Estate)
– Oro de Plata Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast, Petaluma Gap 2013
– La Cruz Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast, Petaluma Gap 2013
– La Cruz Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, Petaluma Gap 2012
– El Coro Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, Petaluma Gap 2012

Robert Biale – Napa/Sonoma (Robert Biale Vineyards)
– Black Chicken Zinfandel, Napa Valley 2013
– R.W. Moore Zinfandel, Napa Valley 2013
– Basic Black, Old World blend, Sonoma 2012
– Royal Pinshers Petite Syrah, Napa Valley 2013

Beekeeper Cellars – Sonoma (Beekeeper Cellars)
– Zinfandel, Black Sears Vineyard, Howell Mountain 2012
– Zinfandel, Madrone Springs Vineyard, Rockpile 2011

Sonoma-Loeb – Sonoma (Sonoma Loeb)
– Chardonnay, Sangiacomo 2013
– Chardonnay, Envoy 2013
– Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2013
– Pinot Noir, Dutton Ranch 2013

Argot Cellars – Sonoma (Argot Wines)
– Chardonnay, Simpatico Ranch, Bennett Valley, Sonoma 2012
– Pinot Noir, Hawk Hill Vineyard, Sonoma Coast 2012

Clos Solene – Paso Robles (Clos Solene)
– Hommage Blanc, Roussanne Viognier, Paso Robles 2014
– Harmonie, 62% Grenache, 28% Syrah, 6% Mourvedre, Paso Robles 2013
– Hommage a Nos Pairs 94% Syrah, 4% Grenache, 2% Roussanne, Paso Robles 2013

L’ Aventure Winery – Paso Robles (L’Aventure Winery)
– Estate Cuvee (57% Syrah, 31% Cab Sauv, 12% Petit Verdot), Paso Robles 2012
– Cabernet Sauvignon (91% Cab Suav, 9% Petit Verdot), Paso Robles 2012

RN Estate – Paso Robles
– Pinot Noir (Whole Cluster Fermentation), Fiddlestix Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills 2012
– Pinot Noir, Solomon Hills, Santa Maria Valley 2012
– Cuvee des Trois Depages, RN Estate Vineyard 2011
– Chardonnay, Solomon Hills Vineyard 2013

LAW Estate – Paso Robles (Law Estate Winery)
– Intrepid, Syrah, Law Vineyard, Paso Robles 2011
– Sagacious (38% Syrah, 34% Mourvedre, 28% Grenache), Law Vineyard, Paso Robles 201

Westerly Wine – Santa Barbara (Westerly Wines)
– Cote Blonde, Syrah Blend, Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara 2012
– Fletcher’s Red, Red Blend, Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara 2010
– Fletcher’s White, White Blend, Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara 2013
– Sauvignon Blend, Santa Ynez Valley 2013

Alma Rosa – Santa Barbara (Alma Rosa Winery and Vineyards)
– Vin Gris, 2014
– Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills 2013
– Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County 2013
– Pinot Gris, Santa Barbara County 2013

Gainey – Santa Barbara (Gainey Vineyard)
– Limited selection Sauvignon Blanc, Santa Ynez Valley 2013
– Limited selection Chardonnay, Sta. Rita Hills 2012
– Limited selection Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2012
– Limited selection Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Ynez Valley 2012

Gentleman Farmer – Napa/Valley (Gentleman Farmer)
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012

St. Supery – Napa Valley (St. Supéry Estate Vineyards and Winery – Napa Valley)
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley Estate 2012
– ELU, (Red Meritage) Napa Valley Estate 2012
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Dollarhide Estate Vineyard 2012
– Merlot, Rutherford Estate Vineyard 2012

Ahnfeldt – Napa Valley
– Estate Chardonnay 2013
– Special Reserve Merlot 2010
– Special reserve Cabernet 2012
– Quid Pro Quo Red Blend 2012

Oakville Ranch – Napa Valley (Oakville Ranch Vineyards)
– Chardonnay, ORV 2013
– Field Blend, ORV 2012
– Robert’s Cabernet Franc 2011
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville Ranch 2012

Amici Cellars – Napa Valley (Amici Cellars)
– Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley 2013
– Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley 2013
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012
– Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, Napa Valley 2012

Refugio Ranch Vineyards – Santa Barbara (Refugio Ranch)
– RR Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon Blend, Santa Ynez Valley 2013
– Roussanne/Viognier Blend, Santa Ynez Valley 2011
– Syrah, Grenache, Petite Syrah, Santa Ynez Valley 2012
– Petite Syrah, Santa Ynez Valley 2012

Saxon Brown – Sonoma County (Saxon Brown Wines)
– Fighting Brothers, Semillon, Sonoma Valley 2012
– Sangiacomo “Green Acres Hill”, Chardonnay, Sonoma Carneros 2012
– Sangiacomo “Robert’s Road”, Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2012
– Stonewall, Zinfandel, Sonoma Valley 2011
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2007

Foxen – Santa Barbara (Foxen Winery)
– Chenin Blanc, Ernesto Wickenden Vineyard 2013
– Chardonnay, Bien Nacido Block UU 2013
– Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley 2013
– Pinot Noir, John Sebastiano Vineyard 2012

Epoch Estate – Paso Robles (Epoch Estate Wines)
– White, Grenache Blanc (blend), Catapult and Paderewski Vineyards 2013
– Ingenuity, Syrah (blend), Paderewski Vineyard 2011
– Veracity, Grenache (blend), Paderewski Vineyard 2012

Lucas & Lewellen – Santa Barbara (Lucas & Lewellen Vineyards)
– High 9, Pinot Noir, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara 2013
– Cote Del Sol, Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara 2011
– Syrah, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara 2012
– Cabernet Franc, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara 2011

Chesebro – Arroyo Seco (Chesebro Wines)
– Pinot Noir, Cedar Lane Vineyard, Arroyo Seco 2010
– La Montagne Sauvage, CM Ranch Vineyard, Carmel Valley 2009

Cole Bailey – Redwood Valley
– “Sesquipedalian” Cabernet Sauvignon, Cole Bailey Vineyards, Redwood Valley 2007

Cordon – Santa Barbara
– “L’Inox” Sauvignon Blanc, Happy Canyon 2014
– “Les Jumeaux” Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2012
– Syrah, White Hawk Vineyard, Los Alamos 2011

Graef – Lake County
– Rose of Syrah, Lake County 2013
– Viognier, Solano County Suisun Valley 2012
– Syrah, Lake County 2012

Random Ridge – Napa/Sonoma (Random Ridge)
– “Old Wave” Zinfandel, Moon Mountain, Sonoma Valley 2012
– Cabernet Franc, Random Ridge Vineyards, Mt. Veeder 2009
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Random Ridge Vineyards, Mt. Veeder 2012

Hawk & Horse Vineyards – Lake County Red Hills (Hawk and Horse Vineyards)
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills 2009
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills 2010
– Latigo- Port style dessert wine, Red Hills 2010
– Petite Syrah, Red Hills 2011

– Forgotten Barrel/Sika Wine – San Diego (Forgotten Barrel Tasting Room)
– SiKa Chardonnay, Atlas Peak 2013
– SiKa Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2012
– SiKa Cabernet Franc, Atlas Peak 2013
– SiKa Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley 2013

Metaphora Wines – Napa Valley (Metaphora Wines)
– Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2010
– Pinot Noir, Napa Valley 2010
– Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley 2014

Cellars 33 – Sonoma County (Cellars 33)
– Grenache Blanc, Clay Satation Vineyard – Lodi 2014
– Chardonnay, Keefer Ranch, Russion River Valley 2013
– ‘Katie’s Cuvee’ Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley 2013

Jeff Cohn – Paso Robles/Sonoma (Jeff Cohn Cellars)
– The Impostor Zinfindel Blend, California 2012
– Rockpile Syrah, Rockpile 2012
– Botticelli Zinfandel, Rockpile 2012
– Misc Stuff GSM Blend, California 2012

Bougetz Cellars – Napa Valley (Bougetz Cellars)
– Sauvignon Blanc, Rutherford 2013
– Amaryllis Cabernet Sauvignon, Spring Mountain District 2012
– Eminence, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012
– The Cairn, Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2012

La Rochelle – Pinot Noir Specialist (La Rochelle Wine)
– Chardonnay, Ferrington Vineyard 2012
– Pinot Meunier Saralee’s Vineyard 2012
– Pinot Noir, Tondre Grapefield 2011
– Pinot Noir, Dutton Freestone Hill Vineyard 2011

Truchard – Napa Valley (Truchard Vineyards)
– Chardonnay, Napa Valley Carneros Estate 2013
– Pinot Noir, Napa Valley Carneros Estate 2013
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley Carneros Estate 2012
– Roussanne, Napa Valley Carneros Estate 2013
– Syrah, Napa Valley Carneros Estate 2013

Aloft – Napa Valley
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain 2010

Valdez – Sonoma (Valdez Family Winery)
– Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast 2012
– Valdez Vineyards, Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley 2011
– St. Peter’s Church, Zinfandel, Alexander Valley 2011
– Silver Eagle Syrah, Russian River Valley 2009

Cairdean Estate – St. Helena (Cairdean Vineyards)
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2010
– Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley 2012
– Haley Margaret White Wine (Blend of Roussanne, Viognier, and Pinot Gris) 2012
– Pinot Noir, Carneros 2011

Miura Vineyards (MIURA Vineyards)
– Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands 2013
– Pinot Noir, Williams Ranch, Anderson Valley 2011
– Pinot Noir, Pisoni Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 2011
– Antiqv2s, Syrah, Garys’ Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 2008

…with MANY more to come!

Special guest DJ of KCRW: Dan Wilcox

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, roof tops, 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.

2015 Partners:
– Los Angeles Magazine
– Learnaboutwine
– wineLA
– The TJ Martell Foundation
– The Peninsula Beverly Hills
– RIEDEL The Wine Glass Company
– Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce

2015 Sponsors:
– IPPA-MAX.com/Cellgevity
– Alcoholgsh.com
– Ideal 55 Wine Lockers

Tickets —> https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stars-of-california-2015-tickets-13859625513

Sine Qua Non Wines to be Auctioned at Kids-to-Farms Dinner

May 3, 2015 by evebushman 2 Comments

KIDS-TO-FARMS BENEFIT DINNER TO DEBUT
AT CAMARILLO RANCH ON MAY 9, 2015

Rustic Dinner Will Feature Cocktails, Fine Wines,
Mediterranean-Italian Cuisine, Live Music and Dancing

(Ventura, CA) – Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) and Boys and Girls Club of Santa Clara Valley (BGCSCV) are proud to debut the Kids-to-Farms Dinner on May 9, 2015 at the beautiful and historic Camarillo Ranch. This classic ranch-themed affair will feature delectable food, wine and drink tastings, a cocktail reception, live music, dancing and an auction.

The evening begins with a VIP hour on the Adolfo Victorian Lawn where patrons and sponsors will enjoy tastings of fine wines, fresh oysters from local favorite, The Jolly Oyster, and truffle caviar on blinis. A cocktail hour for all attendees follows, with gourmand growers offering tempting gourmet appetizers, while award-winning mixologist Patrick Reynolds pours hand-crafted seasonal cocktails, accompanied by the music of internationally-acclaimed Latin guitarist and harpist Xocoyotzin Moraza. In addition, champion dressage rider Monica Houweling of Houweling’s Tomatoes, will provide a dazzling demonstration of “Horse Ballet.”

A live auction will be lead by Ventura County Superintendent Kathy Long, where guests can vie for a chance to win prizes and experiences such as vacation home getaways and fine wines. A highlight of the auction will be three extraordinary culinary packages. One is entitled “Speak, Eat, Cook, Drink – the Italian Experience,” consisting of a private home cooking class by Clarissa Fishman for eight, followed by a four-course dinner paired with Four Brix wines. This auction item also includes a bottle of cult favorite Sine Qua Non 2012 “Stein” (Grenache). The other is a private dinner for eight in the successful bidder’s home by popular Ventura County farm-to-table Chef Tim Kilcoyne, and includes a bottle of 2012 Andremily Syrah (the label of Sine Qua Non’s winemaker), and two bottles of Four Brix Winery’s Brix Mix 2011 Red Blend. The third is a private dinner for eight at the acclaimed restaurant of Herzog Winery – Tierra Sur – and includes a bottle of Sine Qua Non 2011 “The Line.”

A sumptuous 3-course rustic Italian-Mediterranean banquet of Caponata Siciliana and Salsiccie di Maiale e Pollo by Café Fiore and farm-to-table Chef Tim Kilcoyne will be served for dinner, followed by a vintage dessert station. Wines for the reception and dinner will be provided by Malibu Family Wines and Summerland Winery, including Malibu Wines’ Saddlerock Chardonnay, and Summerland Winery’s NV Sparkling Brut and their 2012 Estate Pinot Noir from the Theresa Noelle Vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills.

After dinner, guests are invited to enjoy dancing and live music by Grammy award-winning artist, Todd Hannigan.

Proceeds from the Kids-to-Farm Dinner will support SEEAG and BGCSCV and their joint grade-specific after school agricultural education program. The program consists of classroom training in agricultural literacy, and grade-specific field trips to local farms for experiential learning. This program will serve low-income and under served students that have rich ties to agriculture, will provide them with the understanding of the importance of agriculture, the journey of our food process, and will instill them with pride for the work their families do.

Sponsorships and tickets are available for purchase online at mayfarmdinner.eventzilla.net. The Kids-to-Farms Dinner will take place on Saturday, May 9, 2015 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the historic Camarillo Ranch located at 201 Camarillo Ranch Road, Camarillo, CA 93012. Complimentary parking is available. For more information about the Kids-to-Farms Dinner and SEEAG, please visit www.seeag.org.

About SEEAG
Founded in 2008 in Ventura County, Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) aims to help young students truly understand the origins of their food by bridging the gap between agriculture and consumption through its agricultural education programming. SEEAG‘s Farm to Table – The Journey of Our Food From Field to Fork Program available in Ventura and Los Angeles counties teaches elementary school children about the origins of their food and the importance of local farmland by providing schools with classroom agricultural education and free field trips to farms. Through this program, over 8,000 Ventura County elementary school students have increased their understanding of the food journey. For more information, please visit www.seeag.org or email Mary Maranville at mary@seeag.org.

Clos Pepe Vineyard Leased to WALT Wines

April 12, 2015 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Pioneering Santa Barbara-based vintners Stephen and Cathy Pepe have announced that they have entered into a long-term partnership with WALT Wines, a St. Helena-based specialist in vineyard specific Pinot Noir from California and Oregon. The 29-acre winery and vineyard was founded in 1994 on Highway 246, just 8 miles east of Lompoc, CA.

“My wife Cathy and I have enjoyed our two decades of producing Pinot Noir in the Santa Rita Hills,” says vintner Stephen Pepe. ”We have decided to scale down our lifestyle after dedicating over 20+ years in crafting Pinot Noir. We are thrilled to be able to work with the talented team at WALT and plan to continue live on the property and sell Clos Pepe wines for years to come.” Cathys son, Wes Hagen, has been actively involved with the operation since day one as the vineyard manager and head winemaker.

When the Pepe family arrived in Lompoc in 1994, the Santa Rita Hills was just emerging as a premier appellation for Pinot Noir. Steve, Cathy and Wes’s efforts helped define Pinot Noir from the Santa Rita Hills, and partially due to their success, other prominent vineyards have earned notable vineyard success in the area. During this time, Wes developed a national reputation as a prominent winemaker and wine educator. Wes was also one of the principal draftspersons of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA as well as two other AVAs in Santa Barbara County.

”We have been producing Pinot Noir from the Clos Pepe Vineyard for the past five vintages,” says WALT President Mike Reynolds. “The wines demonstrate a unique combination of elegance and concentration and we are thrilled to have a deeper connection with this vineyard for years to come.”

The Clos Pepe vineyard consists of 29 acres of sustainable Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vines producing some of the finest fruit and wine in the world. Sustainably farmed with low yields and no herbicide or insecticide, the Close Pepe vineyard is exposed to wind and fog and features small vines and clusters. The site includes 25 planted acres of Pinot Noir as well as 4 planted acres of Chardonnay. Relationships with select buyers of Clos Pepe Pinot Noir and Chardonnay will continue.

For more information, please visit www.closepepe.com or www.waltwines.com.

ABOUT CLOS PEPE ESTATE:
Clos Pepe Vineyard was purchased by Steve and Cathy Pepe in 1994 as a horse ranch, and established the 9th vineyard in what would become the Sta. Rita Hills AVA. Specializing in cool-climate, small production, craft-based Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Clos Pepe is now recognized as a leader in local and national wine culture, wine education and providing fruit to some of the best winemakers in California. The Close Pepe Estate is located at 4777 East Highway 246 in Lompoc, CA 93436. For more information, please visit www.clospepecom, or by calling 805-735-2196.

ABOUT WALT WINES:
WALT specializes in premier, small-lot Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from some of the most coveted vineyards along the Pacific Coast, Central Coast, Sonoma County, and Anderson Valley in California and Willamette Valley, Oregon. WALTs philosophy of non-interventionist winemaking allows our winemakers to create expressive wines that reflect the signature personality of each growing region. Owned by Kathryn Walt Hall and her husband Craig, the winery was named to honor Kathryns parents, Bob and Dolores Walt, who were grape growers in Mendocino County and inspired Kathryns passion for vineyards and vine. For the wine to reflect the vineyards terroir, WALT winemakers Steve Leveque and Megan Gunderson combine elements of old-world winemaking style with new age technology, letting nature take its course through the winemaking process with as little human intervention as possible. WALT, a sister brand to the acclaimed HALL Wines in Napa Valley, has consistently earned praise by industry critics with over 40 wines being rated 90 points and above. The WALT Tasting Room opened in 2011 and is located at the Sonoma Plaza in Sonoma, CA, and is open to the public. For more information, please visit www.waltwines.com or by calling (707) 933-4440.

Dolin Estate Wines of Malibu and the Malibu AVA, by Barbara Barrielle

January 29, 2015 by evebushman 1 Comment

Earlier this year, in a vast hall in downtown LA called the Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration, the growers and vintners of the newly-designated Malibu AVA came together to fight for their futures. The County Board of Supervisors was voting to decide whether the Coastal Commission’s ruling that no new vineyards be planted or expanded would stand as law.

Every vintner had a say in public comment but uninformed environmentalists had power in numbers and the Malibu AVA vineyards found the right to develop their own land senselessly restricted.

This was the first time I met Elliot Dolin who, although his vineyard is in the city of Malibu and unaffected by the County’s ruling, was there in vocal support of the AVA as a whole and continues to fight the good fight for vineyard rights. Soon after, I was invited to a dinner where Elliot and his wife, Lynn, introduced the line of single vineyard Pinot Noirs that join their spectacular estate Chardonnay.

The Dolin estate is that rare piece of property that sits on a gentle slope about 400 feet above sea level and overlooks the Pacific in the distance. The house, which was bought in foreclosure, has been completely restored and the vineyard was a brainstorm after noticing the beauty of the vines on neighboring properties. It also seems to fit Elliott well, who, after a long career in music which brought him to Los Angeles, segued into commercial real estate and financial success…although he maintains a rock ‘n’ roll soul!

The Dolin Malibu Estate Chardonnay has a gorgeous golden hue and a bouquet of pears, apples caramel and vanilla. Burgundian in character, the wine is well structured and balanced with mild acid and understated oak. Excellent flavor and elegant finish. The 2011 rated 90 points by Wine Spectator and was included in a piece about “Outstanding California Chardonnays”. The wine was also awarded a Double Gold at the San Francisco International Wine Competition.

The Dolin family has now added single vineyard Pinot Noirs from the Central Coast and a Santa Rita Hills offering. Most intriguing for me was the Bien Nacido Vineyard Pinot Noir that is the exact block

Elliot Dolin

that the famed Tantara Wines gave up when they had a management rift a couple years ago. Tantara’s loss is clearly Dolin’s gain and the 2012 is full of fruit and bright cherry on the nose which pops on the palate and finishes long, fruity and memorable. Although Dolin will lose this Bien Nacido block but will have access to one equally as desirable.

Other single vineyard Dolin wines include Talley’s Rincon Vineyard and Solomon Hills Vineyard, both of which are well-made and express the characteristics of those notable properties as crafted by winemaker Kirby Anderson. A fantastic array of excellent wines and, in my opinion, at very reasonable prices for the quality.

Wines can be found online at http://www.dolinestate.com or in the tasting room at Cornell Winery http://www.cornellwinery.com

KIDS-TO-FARMS BENEFIT DINNER TO DEBUT AT CAMARILLO RANCH ON MAY 9, 2015

KIDS-TO-FARMS BENEFIT DINNER TO DEBUT
AT CAMARILLO RANCH ON MAY 9, 2015