Australia Up Close: Part Two

June 16, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

…enjoy making new discoveries as well as trying the latest vintages of old favorites.

Last week I wrote about the Australian white wine seminar I attended via the Australia Up Close event; what I learned and what we tasted. It got a little lengthy so I split up the story into two parts. Today is what happened the second part of the day, after the seminar, and is limited to all of the Australian red wines that I sampled in a walk around tasting; those that I loved and hope to get my hands on again.

My favorites (of those tables I got to as I know I missed quite a bit) are listed below. Wineries part of the “Australia’s First Families of Wine” designation that I liked are noted as an AFF Wine.

Trade Tasting Participating Wineries

Andrew Peace Wines

Ashton Hills

Austins

Ben Haines

Best’s Great Western

Bethany

Brokenwood

Brown Brothers

Campbells of Rutherglen

Cape Mentelle – 2013 Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot blend; 2014 Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot blend.

Climbing

Cullen

Dalrymple

d’Arenberg (AFF Wine) – 2013 “The Dead Arm” McLaren Vale Shiraz; 2013 “The Ironstone Pressings” McLaren Vale Grenache, Shiraz, Mourvedre blend; 2013 “The Coppermine Road” McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon; 2011 “The Old Bloke and Three Young Blondes” McLaren Vale Shiraz, Roussanne, Viognier and Marsanne blend. (The Old Bloke…only used 2% of each white wine varietal listed in the blend. They are newly biodynamic and organic. This may have been my favorite table.)

De Bortoli Wines

Delinquente

DiGiorgio Family Wines

Fowles Wine

Giant Steps

Handpicked Wines

Helen & Joey Estate

Henry’s Drive

Henschke Wines

Howard Park (AFF Wine) 2012 “Abercrombie” Mount Barker Great Southern Cabernet Sauvignon; 2009 “Abercrombie” Mount Barker Great Southern Cabernet Sauvignon. (While both were excellent I enjoyed the younger 2012 for all of the outstanding fruit and peppery notes. There was no irrigation used – though the vineyards have irrigation if needed – and the vines were planted in 1975.)

Innocent Bystander

Jansz Tasmania

Jasper Hill

Jim Barry (AFF Wine) – 2014 “1877” Hilltops Shiraz.

John Duval

Kaesler

Kilikanoon

Koonara

Langmeil

Leeuwin Estate

Mac Forbes

McWilliam’s Wines

McPherson Wine Co

Negotiants USA – 2014 Langmeil “Orphan Bank” Barossa Valley Shiraz (Vines had to be moved, 90% survived, and were called orphans due to the move.)

Nova Vita

Ocean Eight

Old Bridge Cellars – 2014 John Duval “Eligo” Barossa Shiraz; 2015 Cullen “Diana Madeline” Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Merlot blend; 2013 Jasper Hill “Georgia’s Paddock” Heathcote Shiraz. (They only made 600 cases of my favorite at this table, the Eligo.)

Penfolds – 2014 “Bin 389” Barossa Valley Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz blend; 2014 “Bin 407” Coonawarra Wrattonbully Cabernet Sauvignon; 2014 “RWT” Barossa Valley Shiraz. (Who isn’t familiar with Penfolds? I stuck to just the wines I didn’t know, so damn good. The vines for these wines were planted between 1951 and 1960.)

Penley Estate

Peter Lehmann – 2012 “Stonewell” Barossa Shiraz.

Pewsey Vale

Pikes

Rob Dolan

Rogers & Rufus

Rymill Coonawarra

Schild Estate – 2013 “Moorooroo Ancestor Vines” Barossa Valley Shiraz. (170 year old vines, two years in both new and old French oak and then two years in bottle before release. Worth the wait for this 100% Shiraz.)

Shaw + Smith

Snake & Herring

Syrahmi

Tahbilk Winery

Thorn-Clarke Wines

Tolpuddle

Torbreck Vintners – 2009 “The Factor” Barossa Valley Shiraz; 2014 “The Struie” Barossa Valley Shiraz; 2014 “RunRig” Barossa Valley Shiraz and Viognier. (Only 3.5 % of Viognier was used in this blend to “soften” the wine and for a “tonal” lift. It worked.)

Tournon

Tyrrell’s Wines

Vasse Felix

Vinaceous

Voyager Estate

Wakefield Wines (AFF Wine) – 2013 “St. Andrew’s” Clare Valley Shiraz had a lovely touch of sweetness and great balance.

Wicks
Wirra Wirra – 2013 RSW McLaren Vale Shiraz (With vines between 40-60 years old, low yield production and the vineyard was originally planted in 1890.)

Woodstock

Yaldara

Yalumba (AFF Wine) – 2013 “The Signature” Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz blend.

Yarra Yering – 2010 “Dry Red No. 1” Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec blend; 2013 “Old Bastard” Barossa Valley Grenache Mourvedre blend. (These both got big “wows” from me.)

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

Wine 101ers Get: AUSTRALIA UP CLOSE Part One

June 9, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

With a geographical size similar to the US and distinct climates, soils and terroirs, its no surprise that Australia boasts an array of wine styles, regions and grape varieties for you to experience.

This was an intriguing teaser to a recent Australian wine event I attended. I went in knowing very little about Australian white wines so I signed up for their seminar, and then knew I would enjoy the walk around tasting to get my fill of the wines I was more familiar with: Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignons and many Bordeaux and Rhone blends.

SEMINAR – White Wines: Unique Expressions of Australian Riesling, Semillon and Chardonnay

Australia is blessed with regions and climates that can produce truly world-class wines from the noblest of vines. Discover the many exciting expressions of Riesling, Semillon and Chardonnay being produced across Australia’s diverse wine regions. Presented by special guests and winemakers, and moderated by Wine Australia.

Our Seminar Panelists

Fahara Zamorano – Head Sommelier, Gwen LA; Matt Kaner – Owner, Bar Covell & Augustine; Kyle Meyer – Wine Exchange; Bruce Tyrrell – Tyrrell’s Wines; Jeff Burch – Howard Park Wines; Jeff McWilliam – McWilliam’s Wines; Mark Davidson, Wine Australia (Moderator).

Seminar Wines – Flavors and Aromas separated by ;

Tyrrell’s Vat 1 Hunter Semillon Hunter Valley 2011 – Green apple, pineapple lemon zest, Mandarin orange and white pepper all on the nose; with lemon-lime, bruised apple and a medium acidity on the palate. 90 Eve pts.

Brokenwood ILR Reserve Semillon Hunter Valley 2009 – I smelled apple, pear, fresh lemon, pears in light syrup; then tasted bright and tangy fresh fruit – same as those I found on the nose. 90 Eve pts.

Ashbrook Estate Semillon Margaret River 2015 – Perfumy aroma, then bruised yellow apple, cream and a pale hint of cinnamon; viscous on the mouth, as well as slightly paler fruit and a long finish. 90 Eve pts.

Silkman Estate Semillon Hunter Valley 2015 – Lemon, toast, grapefruit and unsalted butter on the nose; followed by tart apple and limeade on the palate. 90 Eve pts.

Pewsey Vale Contours Riesling Eden Valley 2011 – Fruit cocktail, green grass to yellow hay, floral and bright; that same bright quality came through on the taste as well as lemon, grass, acidity, bone dry. 90 Eve pts.

Grosset Polish Hill Riesling Clare Valley 2016 – Bright aromas of pears and kiwi fruit; followed by lemon, orange and steel on the palate. 90 Eve pts.

Frankland Estate Isolation Ridge Riesling Frankland River 2015 – Green apple, crushed green leaves and a whiff of orange on the nose; the palate was very sharp citrus fruit: lemon and orange, a slight viscosity and a long dry finish. 90 Eve pts.

Pressing Matters R9 Riesling Tasmania 2015 – My favorite of all the white wines I tasted with aromas of sweet orange blossoms, apple pie and a bit of cream; then came a slightly sweet and lingering fresh lemon-lime fruit on the mouth. 91 Eve pts. (All of the Riesling shared the same bone dry quality, except this expression from Tasmania.)

McWilliam’s 842 Chardonnay Tumbarumba 2013 – Fresh oak, honey, barnyard, earth, citrus, butter and white pepper on the nose; then the taste was tart, some oak and apple. 91 Eve pts.

Moorooduc Estate Chardonnay Mornington Peninsula 2012 – Earthy, dried apple, butter, clove and steely; then bruised apple, tart with medium acid. 90 Eve pts.

Howard Park Miamup Chardonnay Margaret River 2015 – Toast, lemon, cream, and a general feeling of being in a sweet floral garden; the flavors were bright, tart and citrusy with a medium acidity and long finish. 89 Eve pts.

Shaw + Smith M3 Chardonnay Adelaide Hills 2014 – Creamery butter, lemon and green fields; then that same lemon on the mouth, but light, and a leaner acidity. 89 Eve pts.

What I Learned From Our Panelists and the White Wine Tasting

One of our panelists stated that if you remotely expect that a Semillon from Australia would taste like one from Bordeaux, France you would be dead wrong. If you thought that a Riesling from Australia would taste like its German counterpart you would be equally wrong. My tasting notes above probably express this.

Australia is considered a New World wine area, however, Meyer would like us to see their wines as truly old world, but with an edge. The vines are very old, the area is larger than Europe and Phylloxera has never hit them.

The 12 elite wineries in “Australia’s First Families of Wine” group have several criteria to meet including their dedication to promote Australian wine to the global market, 100% family owned and have to have at least a 20 year vertical.

Next week I will run part two of the tasting, the reds I got to try, on June 16 here on this blog.

Vintage Eve Circa Dec. 2012: Wine With Attitude and Without

January 24, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

I’ve never really had a problem with wine attitudes. Like the first time Eddie and I visited France. We were warned that the waiters would turn up their noses if we selected the wrong wines, scoff at an inexpensive choice and return our check too quickly. I spent the long flight getting there refreshing my French to avoid the problem. Ed scoffed at me. He said just be yourself; no erase that, just be like him: polite.

A newer photo: Wine 661 owner Tanya Green

It amazed me that our earnest attempts at French were not laughed at. Our earnest attempts to learn were far from scoffed at. And, in being earnestly polite, we were richly rewarded in enjoying and learning about French wines. Our summarization: Attitude comes from the drinker, not the server, and certainly not the wineries which by basic successful business standards pretty much prohibit discrimination.

With that in mind, we ventured into the cozy local Wine 661 for a taste. We had been disappointed with Wine Savor, the former store ownership, as we would like to drink more than just a $10 bottle limit. We gave it six visits before giving up. We never voiced our complaint, trying to be polite, we just wanted a little more selection and sought it elsewhere. But now, even though there were new owners, we weren’t sure if we would be comfortable in a place that promised “no attitude”. What if they sniffed out our experienced palates and assumed attitude? How should we behave? We settled on our old standby of: “politely”.

We were unsure about the flights of wine offered and ventured into the recesses of the racks to try a mid-priced Australian Shiraz we had never heard of. A nice screw capped Kilikanoon South Australia Killerman’s Run Shiraz Grenache 2004, to be exact, as we bought a bottle before leaving. That’s not all we bought though.

After settling in and watching bartendress Val deftly decant our wine we took a look around to see what a wine bar “without attitude” looked like. It looked like a lot of women. I don’t mean dozens but at least an even half. Young women. Lounging on the comfortable sofas. Relaxing. Gazing out of the store front. Looking glorious in the soft lighting. Checking out the appetizer menu. We were left to consider that a wine bar was probably a more respectable place for women to meet than a regular bar. But then we moved on to what they had: the appetizer menu.

Out of a surprising six selections we settled on the Warm Brie w/Raspberry Chipotle Drizzle that Val warned us was the drizzle to die from. I think she even said she used it in her PB & J. Like spicy chutney, when paired with the warm brie and the Shiraz, our palates were quite pleased. Not sated, of course, we ordered the olive Tampenade. Slightly chunky but with the same favorable bit of dueling flavors. Again it seemed perfectly matched with our wine.

Had we been hungrier we would have ventured on to the Warm Spinach Dip, Assorted Cheese Plate, Chicken Skewers with Teriyaki Sauce and the “Ménage Et Trois” bit of salami, white cheddar and nuts. Next time we told ourselves. As all were reasonably priced, having more than one for a dinner or as a snack sounded just about right.

So next time you want to go out and leave your attitude at home remember it’s all up to you. You can sniff and swirl anywhere. But when will you learn something? When you are open to it and not above it.

Vintage Eve Circa 6/2011: The CLASSIC Results

March 1, 2016 by evebushman Leave a Comment

The last time I co-chaired a big wine event, Pour Into Haiti with Roman Weiser and David Schutz, I counted on these two very capable men to harness the winery help while I could focus on being the social networking butterfly. With the Circle of Hope (COH) taking over the Betty Ferguson Foundation’s Vine 2 Wine…I was able to attract the big gun behind the former SCV Wine Classic, Jeff Jacobson, to persuade and secure the wineries. Enter the inaugural Vine 2 Wine CLASSIC.

The event committee, headed by expert event planner Shawneen Rubay and COH Executive Director Ray Tippet, included Judy Penman, Cheryl Gray, Steve Cravitz, Nicole Weir, wine chair Jeff Jacobson, with Janice Murray and myself as the event co-chairs.

This was far beyond my realm. Several meetings whizzed by. Fast forward to the morning of the event and my husband Eddie and I found ourselves picking up dozens of cases of wine from Jeff’s house and helping him unload at the event site. It was dizzying working alongside the volunteers all morning. When it was lunch time – Jeff had arranged for all of the volunteers to have lunch – he gave the wine pourers a quick pep talk and…we were off.

Eddie, planning on working the sparkling table we were assigned to together, was left with about six other women instead…as I was the official “greeter” that thanked all of the guests for supporting COH. (A note on our table: John Carter, the owner of BarParts.com, gave me a gold-plated Champagne opener to use. Remove the cage, clamp the serrated edges on the cork, turn the bottle, and voilà, it worked like a charm!)

Once inside guests could look at original art, have some lunch, listen to music, bid on silent auction items, partake in a “wine pull”, enjoy the Beer Garden of Hope or…taste wine. At one point our local radio-personality Janice Murray called me up to the microphone. She said to tell people some kind of wine hint, my mind when blank, I think I stammered, “Stay away from my library wine tables, that’s all for me” in my usual charming way.

This is what guests found on their own:

CLASSIC surprises

We keep some secrets from the general public which included the wine yoke, a fabric necklace with several sturdy grips for a wine glass because, as I told guests as they entered, “Circle of Hope cares….and wants you to be comfortable and hands-free for the tasting today.”

The “Library” wine donators weren’t made public before the event as well as exactly what rare wines may be available.

And, since we had to move from a few tents to a few tents plus three pavilions, two were named after Betty Ferguson Foundation Founders Judy Cox and Marjanne Priest and one was named for the Circle of Hope Founder, Colleen Shaffer.

CLASSIC Quotes

When Jeff asked me to go to all of the tents to thank the volunteers and the winery representatives for coming out to support the event, I took the time to also check in with guests to ask what their favorite wine of the day was. And though I mentioned their favorite exact “descriptor” in this week’s Eve’s Wine 101 YouTube (link) …I’m not putting that in print. (Suffice to say, the volunteers, winery representatives and guests all had a great experience and we’re already looking forward to next year’s event.)

Elizabeth Hopp: 2000 Talley Pinot Noir.

Cathy Martin: 2006 Silver Oak Magnum at the Circle of Hope table.

Rose Chegwin by way of Kathy Crone: Les Deux Chats and Pulchella. (Our local winemakers!)

Leah Granen: The Martinelli table.

Marlee Lauffer: 1999 William Selyem Pinot Noir served at Jeff Jacobson’s library wine table.

Diane Ghilardi: Pulchella and Morello Pinot Noir (Nick Morello, you may remember, was the first manager at Valencia Wine Co., made wines at Leona Valley, and now, I can attest, makes an outstanding Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.)

Amanda Bahnmaier: Clos La Chance 08 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and Pulchella.

Kelly Abbott: The dry Italian sparkling wine and Pulchella.

Dr. Andrew Friend: 06 Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon at the Jacobson library table.

Janice Murray: Rotari Brut and Rose.

Michael Parks: Leona Valley Malbec.

John Geraci: Morello Pinot Noir and Les Deux Chats Zinfandel.

Sheryl Geraci: Morello Chardonnay.

Dr. Rex Baumgartner: 06 Stage Leap Cabernet Sauvignon

Ramon Rebel: A Chateauneuf-du-Pape from the French Wine Table.

And a nice, non x-rated quote from Steve-looking-sharp-Chegwin: “It’s like the Vine 2 Wine and The Classic Merged!” Ding! Ding! Ding!

CLASSIC sightings

Clyde and Colleen Shaffer, Judy Cox, Marjanne Priest, Moe, Linda and Alex Hafizi, Laine Hedwell and Marlee Lauffer, Judy Penman, Michele Buttleman, Jim Walker, Bob Keller, Cheryl Gray, Ray, Janey and Jason Tippet, Geoffrey and Shawneen Rubay, Amanda Bahnmaier, Don and Cheryl Dellepiane, John and Sheryl Geraci, Steve and Cathy Martin, Mike and Pam Ripling, Ken and Patrice Rifkind, Sharyn Buncick, Shaun and Ivy Pierson, Sharon Lindquist and all of her lovely Wine-y Women, Oriana John, Bruce and Tamara Brown, Darrin and Cathy Craig, Steve and Rose Chegwin, Yvonne Matute and her daughter, Christina Scott Haselbusch, Ron Horton, Rich Soto and Jane Bettencourt-Soto, Larry Barbro, Lois Bauccio, Kathy Crone, Dan and Janine Jones, Bob and Susie Majesky, Patrick, Barbara and Brittney Raach, Terry Bucknall, Maria Strmsek, Michael Parks, Diana Vose, John and Tera McHugh, Maureen McKaughan, Leah Granen, Jenifer Costin, Kelly Anderson Phen, Linda Woolf, Judith Cassis, Dr. Rex Baumgartner, Ramon Rebel, Shelley Hann, Mary Reuschel, Bob and Susie Majesky, Kevin Kistler, Dr. Andrew Friend, Liz Seipel, Ron Horton and the two very nice undercover “Matrix-Looking” policemen.

CLASSIC thanks

So many local pals stepped up to volunteer! Janice Murray, Sue Saffir, Steve and Amy Elzer, Jeff, Joan and Julie Jacobson, Eddie Bushman, Steve and Julie Cravitz, Dean Funk, Mary Bradway, Tom and Jenny Lukas, DiMaggio Washington, Les Hershberger and Mamie Wong, Roger and Gwen Gertz, Chef Tamra Levine, Claudia Sheridan, Danise Davis, Jami Kennedy, Doug Penman, Ralph Gray, Diane Ghilardi, Nicole Weir, Nick Morello, Steve and Megan Lemley, Nate Hasper, Wendy Ora Roberts, Lee Yoon, John Burton, Casey Boshae, Corey Jones, Mark Abraham, Randy Bartlett, Russ and Nancy Briley, Denise Cardamone, Priscilla Faubel, John Whitman, Jim Schaffert, Corey Ann Koontx Jones, Lisa Van Blarcom, Roman Weiser, Beth Heiserman, Greg Moss, Krystal Anderson, Heidi Brook-Meyers, Randy and Cherie Bartlett, Corey Jones, David Reynolds, Kelly Abbott, Kathy Rutherford, Gary Stein, Russ and Leslie Bretall, Scott and Susan Hand, Don Kelly, Steve and Julie Sturgeon, Jo Ann Vindigni, Don Kelly, Tim and Barb Heinzel, Patty Blazer, Darrell and Judy Gilbert, Lisa Valenti, Paul Vernier, Laura Romano, John Whitman, Bonnie Stauch, Mike and Sue Wynn, Mark and Pat Abraham, Don and Donna Heese, Sandy Brandon, Mike and Sue Wynn, Wayne and Rhonda Durand, Don and Joyce Woodmansee, Ken and Marilyn Euken, Friends of Kevin Byrne, Kevin Byrne, Saheer and Sabrina Ali, Heidi Wiss, Beth Greenwald, Don and Diane Scudamore.

I also asked Jeff Jacobson what he would like to add: “We want to especially thank all the wineries for trusting in our “great expectation” that the event would be attended by so many people that their attendance, as with the Wine Classic, would be worth their while, and to single out two very important people whose ongoing support was paramount in importance: John Burton of Southern Wine & Spirits of So. California, who recruited several wineries for the event, and Kevin Byrne of Wine Warehouse who not only recruited several wineries, but also ran the Beer Garden of Hope. Without the ongoing support of these amazing and generous people, as well as our friends who donated those incredible library wines from their own cellars, as well as the volunteers, we could not have had such an outstanding event, particularly on less than three months’ notice.”

CLASSIC food

Salt Creek Grille Catering, Cake Goodness, M & W Gourmet Foods, McClaren’s Shortbread, Toffee DeJour, Jersey Mike’s and Sam’s Specialty Sausages kept guests happy. (Tickets weren’t needed for tastings, and the food was included in the overall ticket price.)

CLASSIC music

Dave Ford & the Last Set, Kelly’s Lot and Stagg Street Band Rhythm Section. Walking through the venue I happened upon a young woman, Brittney Westover, that sang between band sets. Brittney works, and often performs, at the Roman Holiday Wine Lounge. She brought me to tears when she sang from an opera for us today!

CLASSIC artists

Georgette Arison, Jaylene Armstrong, Janine Ayers, Lisa Barr, Donna Boydston, Evie Cook, Hector Fernandez, Laurie Finkelstein, Sandy Fisher, Zony Gordon, Olga Kaczmar, Cheri Marcovitch, Gerda Maxey, Jane Mick, Trae Mundt, Patty O’Hearn, Laurelle Quintero, Dale & Pat Thayer, David Veal, Lynn Wolverton-Parker, Leroy Ward and Ross Walhburg.

CLASSIC Sponsors

Canyon Country Magazine, Elite Magazine, HotSpot SCV, KHTS, Santa Clarita Valley Magazine, The Signal, THEsaurus FILMS, A1 Rentals, Andy Gump, Burrtec, Copper Eagle Security, KEI Management, KISS Storage, Mann Biomedical Park, Newhall Ice, Roman Holiday Wine Lounge, Santa Clarita Photographic Studio, Sheila Veloz Breast Imaging Center, SOS Productions, Southern Wine & Spirits of Southern California, International Wines and Wine Warehouse.

CLASSIC Beer in the Beer Garden of Hope

Anderson Valley Brewing Company, Lost Coast Brewery, Napa Smith Brewery and Mission Brewery, were manned by volunteers Doug Penman and Sam Senner. A note on Sam: He flew in from Alaska to assist at the event! He not only helped in the Beer Garden of Hope but also stepped in to make pulled pork with the many other tireless volunteers.

CLASSIC Plans

You’ll just have to stay tuned to find out the date and venue for next year. But, before I give you a taste of the wines, just a thank you to everyone that made this event so successful. From the volunteers to the guests and back around to the women with breast cancer we strive to help, take pride in knowing that you strengthened the circle of hope last Sunday. Learn more here: http://www.circleofhopeinc.org/v2/

The CLASSIC wines

CIRCLE OF HOPE’S 2011 VINE 2 WINE CLASSIC

WINERIES, WINE TABLES, LIBRARY WINES AND BEER GARDEN DETAILS

Circle of Hope Table of Sparkling wines of the world

NV Santa Julia Brut Rose, Argentina

NV Mumm Brut Prestige, Napa

NV Rotari Brut Rose, — Aldo Adige, Italy

NV Abbazia Asti Spumante, Italy

NV Segura Viudas Brut Reserve Cava, Spain

NV Segura Viudas Brut Reserve Cava Rose, Spain

NV Veuve du Vernay Brut, France

NV Piper Sonoma Brut, California

2007 Gerard Bertrand Cremnt de Limoux Brut, France

NV Sekt Extra Dry Rose, Germany

2008 Terra Sparkling Malbec, Argentina

NV Lucien Albrecht Brut Rose, Cremant d’Alsace, France

NV Graham Beck Brut Rose, South Africa

Circle of Hope Table of Italian wines

2006 Cantele Salice Salentino Riserva

2008 Di Majo Norante Sangiovese San Girogio Molise Terra Degle Osci

2008 Fontanafredda Barbera d’Alba Briccontondo

NV Rotari sparkler rose, Aldo Adige

NV Bellussi Spumante Prosecco Valdobiadene

Moscato d’ Asti, Il Conte d’Alba

2009 Masi Pinot Grigio

2008 Di Majo Norante Sangiovese Molise

2008 sportoletti Assisi Rosso

2007 Sirch Ribolla Gialla

Wines from Australia and New Zealand

2008 Overhill Shiraz McLaren Vale Red Silk

2009 Rata Sauvignon Blanc, Marlboro

2009 Terroir Pinot Noir, Central Otago, New Zealand

2008 D’Arenberg Shiraz, “The Stump Jump,” McLaren Vale

2009 D’Arenberg Viognier-Marsanne, “The Hermit Crab,” McLaren Vale

2008 Leeuwin Riesling, Margaret River Art Series

Wines of South Africa

2007 Sauvignon Blanc, Sugar Bush

2008 Boekenhoustkloof Syrah Porcupine Ridge

2008 Boekenhoustkloof Wolftrap Red (Meritage)

2008 Ken Forester Petit Chenin Blanc

2009 Ken Forester Petit Pinotage

2005 Stellekaya (S. Africa) Cabernet

2008 Man Vintners Pinotage

2009 Indaba Chard (So. Africa) — may have enough for the White wines tables.

2008 Excelsior Cabernet Sauvignon

2008 Delheim Cab Sauv. Shiraz (So. Aftica)

Interesting White Wines of the World

2005 Pinot Gris Albert Mann, Furstntum Grand Crue, Alsace

2007 Can Feixes Penedes Blanc

2007 Chardonnay, Flora Springs, Napa Vlley

2009 Huber Gruner Veltliner Niederosterreich Hugo, Austria

2006 Saxon Brown Semillon Somoma Valley Casa Santinamaria Vineyards, California

2007 Sirch Ribolla Gialla, Italy

2008 Sauvignon Blanc, Kenwood, Sonoma

2009 Veramonte sauvignon blanc, Chile

2009 Poppy Chardonnay, Sta Lucia Highlands

2009 Roc de Segur, Bordeaux, France

2009 Tarquinet Classic Ugni Blanc Colombard-Gascogne, France

2009 King Estate Pinot Gris, Oregon

2009 Quinta de Ameal Loureiro Vinho Verde, Portugal

2009 Dominio del Plata Torrontes Crios de Susana Balbo Mendoza, Argentina

2008 Cune Rioja Blanco Monopole, Spain

Circle of Hope Table of Interesting Red Wines

2006 Clos La Chance estate cabernet sauvignon, California

2006 Stonestreet Meritage, Fifth Ridge

2007 Oyster Bay Pinot Noir, Marlborough, New Zealand

2007 Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel, California

2007Malhadinha Nova Monte Da Peceguina, Alentejo, Portugal

2008 Rioja, Bodegas Y Vinedos Noe ,Rioja, Spain

2008 Fritz Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, California

2008 Santa Emma Merlot, Chile

Pittnauer Burgenlander Rot, Austria

2009 Beaujolais, Domaine Jean Descombes (Duboeuf), Cote de Morgon, Burgundy, France

2009 Chateau Roc de Segur, Bordeaux Superior

2009 McManis Petit Sirah, California

Campesino Cellars

www.campesinocellars.com

2008 Pinot Noir, Papi y Chula Vineyard, Carneros, Napa Valley

2008 Syrah, Sangiacomo Old Lakeville Road Vineyard, Sonoma Coast

2009 Chupi Late Harvest Chardonnay, Napa Valley (375 ml)

The Cellar — DiMaggio Washington — Ports and Fortified Wines

In addition to DiMaggio’s own syrah port

Fonseca port, Bin 27, Finest Reserve

Ramos Pinto Collecor Porto Riserva

Offley white porto

Niepoort tawny port

Pennfold’s tawny “Club” port

Henriques & Henriques Madeira, Full, Rich

Lustau Solera Reserva Sherry — Dry Amontillado

Lustau Solera Reserva Sherry — Fino

Lustau Solera Reserva Sherry — Oloroso

Lustau Solera Reserva Sherry — Deluxe Cream

Lustau Solera Reserva Sherry –Moscatel Superior

Lustau Solera Reserva Sherry — Pedro Ximenez

Cantine Pellegrino 1880 Marsala, Sweet

4 Joes Winery

2006 Grenache, Paso Robles

2006 Mourvedre, Thompson Vineyards, Santa Barbara County

2006 Syrah, Thompson Vineyards, Santa Barbara County

Halter Ranch Vineyard

2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles

2008 Syrah, Paso Robles

2010 Sauvignon Blanc, Paso Robles

2010 Cotes de Paso Blanc, (rhone blend), Paso Robles

Leona Valley Winery

2009 Chardonnay, Leona Valley & Santa Barbara County

2006 Pinot Noir, Leona Valley

2006 Malbec, Leona Valley

2005 Meritage, Leona Valley

2008 Rose, semi-sweet, “Fault Line,” Leona Valley

NV Port, Malbec and Petite Verdot blend, Leona Valley

Navarro Vineyards

2007 Pinot Noir, Methode a l’Ancienne

2009 Chardonnay, Premiere Reserve

2009 Gewurztraminer, Estate Bottled

2009 Pinot Gris, Anderson Valley, Mendocino

2009 Riesling, Anderson Valley, Mendocino

2009 Sauvignon Blanc, Cuvee 128, Mendocino

2010 Rose Mendocino, Anderson Valley

Martinelli Winery

1999 Martinelli Chardonnay, Charles Ranch, Sonoma Coast

2003 Martinelli Pinot Noir, Seven Mules Vineyard, Russian River Valley

2003 Zinfandel, Giuseppe & Luisa, Russian River Valley

2004 Martinelli Syrah, Terra Felice, Russian River Valley

2004 Martinelli Zinfandel, Vigneto di Evo, Russian River Valley

2006 Martinelli Pinot Noir, Bella Vigna, Russian River Valley

2006 Martinelli Zinfandel, Giuseppe & Luisa, Russian River Valley

2006 Chardonnay, Three Sisters Vineyard, Sonoma Coast

2006 Syrah, Hop Camp Vineyard, Russian River Valley

2007 Pinot Noir, Lolita Ranch, Russian River Valley

2008 Zinfandel, Vigneto di Evo, Russian River Valley

Morello Wines

2008 Chardonnay, Leona Valley

2008 Pinot Noir, Leona Valley

2008 Pinot Noir, Paso Robles

Old Creek Ranch Winery

2007 Nebbiolo, Stolpman Vineyard, Santa Barbara County

2008 De la Tierra (Mourvedre, Syrah, Grenache, Viognier blend)

2008 Petite Sirah, Branham Obsidian Vineyard, Napa Valley

2008 Sangiovese, White Hawk Vineyard, Santa Barbara

2010 Albarino de Moro, Edna Valley

Vino V Winery

2006 Syrah, White Hawk Vineyard, Santa Barbara County

2010 Gruner Veltliner, “Confundida,” San Luis Obispo County

Pulchella Winery

Pulchella Everyday Wine Blend, Paso Robles

Pulchella Everyday Red Blend, Paso Robles

2009 Pulchella Zinfandel, Golden Cloud Vineyard, Paso Robles

2009 Pulchella Private Family Reserve Blend, Paso Robles

Reyes Winery

www.reyeswinery.com

2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, Signature, Sierra Pelona Valley

2009 Merlot, Signature, Sierra Pelona Valley

2009 Syrah, Signature, Sierra Pelona Valley

Talley Vineyards

2000 Talley Rosemary’s Chardonnay

2000 Talley Rosemary’s Pinot Noir

2004 Talley Rosemary’s Chardonnay

2004 Talley Rincon Chardonnay

2005 Talley RIncon Pinot Noir

2005 Talley Stone Corral Pinot Noir

2007 Talley Rincon Chardonnay

2009 Chardonnay, Estate Bottled, Arroyo Grande Valley

2009 Pinot Noir, Estate Bottled, Arroyo Grande Valley

Whitcraft Winery

2005 Pinot Noir, Bien Nacido Vineyard

2007 Pinot Noir, Aubane Vineyard

2007 Syrah, Stolpman Ranch

2007 Pinot Noir, Melville Vineyard, Santa Rita Hills

2009 Chardonnay, Olivos del Mar Vineyard

2009 Pinot Noir, Morning Dew Ranch, Barrel Select, “futures” tasting

Les Deux Chats Winery

Vintages and other details to follow:

2009 Roussanne, Ripken Vineyard, Lodi

Viognier

Syrah

2009 Zindandel, Dusi Vineyard, Paso Robles

Nuggucciet Cellars

2009 Pinot Noir, Riverbench Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley

Francis Coppola Winery

2010 Blanc de Blanc, Sofia, Monterey

2009 Chardonnay, Votre Sante, California

2010 Riesling, Sofia, Monterey

2010 Sauvignon Blanc, Diamond, California

2010 Rose, Sofia, Monterey

2008 Cinema red blend, Director’s Cut, Sonoma

2009 Claret, Diamond, California

2009 Pinot Noir, Votre Sante, California

2008 Zinfandel, Director’s Cut, Dry Creek

Constellation Wine U.S.

2008 Blackstone Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Reserve

2008 Blackstone Merlot, Sonoma Reserve

2010 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand

2008 Wildhorse Chardonnay, Paso Robles

2008 Wildhorse Pinot Noir, Paso Robles

Wente Family Estates

An assortment of excellent wines, to be determined

Prestige Wine Imports

NV Rotari Talento Brut Sparkling Wine, Trento, Italy

NV Rotari Rose Sparkling Wine, Trento, Italy

2010 Mezzacorona Pinot Grigio, Alto Adige, Italy

2010 Mezzacorona Moscato, Alto Adige, Italy

2008 Feudo Arancio Contadoro, red blend, Sicily, Italy

Pedroncelli Vineyards

2009 Chardonnay, Vintage Selction, Dry Creek Valley

2009 Sauvignon Blanc, Eastside Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley

2008 Cabernet Sauvignon, Three Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley

2009 Merlot, Bench Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley

2007 Sangiovese, Alto Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley

2009 Zinfandel, Mother Clone, Dry Creek Valley

Gallo Family Vineyards

MacMurray Ranch 2009 Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast

MacMurray Ranch 2009 Pinot Noir, Central Coast

Bridlewood 2009 Blend #175, red blend, Central Coast

Bridlewood 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles

Kenneth Volk Vineyards

2007 Chardonnay, “Santa Maria Cuvee”

2009 Malvasia Bianca, Monterey

2007 Pinot Noir,”Santa Maria Cuvee”

2008 Negrette, Calleri Vineyard, San Benito

Shannon Ridge Ranch Vineyards and Winery

2009 Sauvignon Blanc, Lake County

2009 Chardonnay, Lake County

2009 Wrangler Red, red blend, Lake County

2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, Lake County

2008 Zinfandel, Lake County

2009 Petite Sirah, Lake County

Rosenthal The Malibu Estate

Suefrider 2008 Sauvignon Blanc, Edna Valley

Rosenthal 2008 Chardonnay, Newton Canyon, Malibu

Rosenthal 2009 Chardonnay, Newton Canyon, Malibu

Surfrider 2008 Pinot Noir, Edna Valley

Rosenthal 2008 Merlot, Newton Canyon, Malibu

Rosenthal 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Newton Canyon, Malibu

J Lohr Vineyards

2009 Chardonnay, “Riverstone,” Monterey

2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, “Seven Oaks,” Paso Robles

2008 Merlot, “Los Osos,” Paso Robles

2009 Syrah, “South Ridge,” Paso Robles

2010 Reisling, “Bay Mist, Monterey

2010 Valdiguie, “Wildflower,” Monterey

Wines of Spain

2008 Albarino, Eidos De Padrinan, Rias Baixas

2009 Verdejo, A Rodriguez Martin Sancho, Rueda

2009 Valdeorras, Casal Novo Godello

2007 Mencia, Bodega Pazzo de Arribi, Bierzo

2008 Tempranillo, Vina Gormaz, Ribera del Duero

2009 Garnacha, “Xiloca,” Vinae Mureri, Rivera del Jiloca, Aragon

International Wines & Liquor

An assortment of excellent wines

Sunrise Spirits and Food Company

An assortment of excellent current vintages and library wines,

Woodland Hills Wine Company

2010 Chateau du Rouet Cuvee Reservee Tradition Cotes de Provence Rose, France

2010 Moulin de Gassac, Guilhem Rose, Languedoc, France

2010 Muga Rioja Rosado, Rioja, Spain

2010 Mulderbosch Cabernet Sauvignon Rose, Costal Region, South Africa

2009 Beaujolais, Duboeuf, Cote-de-Brouilly, Domaine du Riaz

2009 Beaujolais, Duboeuf, Julienas, La Trinquee

2009 Beaujolais, Duboeuf, Morgon, Domaine de la Chaponne

2009 Beaujolais, Duboeuf, Moulin-a-Vent, Domaine des Rosiers

Library Wines

Les Hershberger and Mamie Wong

1996 spotswoode cabernet sauvignon (3 Litre)

2001 Colgin Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, Herb Lamb Vineyard, Napa Valley

1999 Colgin Cellars Proprietary Red, Cariad Vineyard, Napa Valley

2006 Colgin Cellars Syrah, IX Estate, Napa Valley

Faubel

1982 Niebaum-Coppola Rubicon

1985 Niebaum-Coppola Rubicon

2000 Colgin Cellars Proprietary Red, Cariad Vineyard, Napa Valley

1990 Zind Humbrecht Gewurztraminer, Late Harvest, Vendage Tardive

1992 Zind Humbrecht Gewurztraminer, Late Harvest, Heinbourg

Roger and Gwen Gertz

1998 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

1995 Chateau Lagrange, Saint Julien, Bordeaux

1995 Chateau Pape Clement, Pessac-Leongan, Bordeaux

1996 Chateau Montrose, Saint Estephe, Bordeaux

Steve and Amy Elzer

Jonata Winery — assorted vintages, Santa Ynez

1993 Shafer Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

1994 Quintessa Cabernet Sauvignon

1994 Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserve, Rutherford, Napa Valley

1994 Staglin Cabernet Sauvignon

Jeff, Joan and Julie Jacobson

1994 Chateau d’Yquem, sauternes

1996 Antinori Tagnanello

1997 Barbi Brunello di Montalcino

1997 Ca’ de Rocchi Amarone Classico

1997 Chateau Leoville Barton

1999 Anselmann Huxelrebe Trockenbeerenauselese dessert wine

2001 Altesino Brunello di Montalcino

2001 Fauveley Latrices-Chambertin Grand Cru

2003 Chateneuf du Pape Clos de l’Oratorie des Papes, Les Choregies

2003 Tommasi Amarone classico

2003 Leonetti Reserve Red

2003 Opus One

2003 Hacienda Monasterio Ribera del Duero

2004 Clos Mogador Manyetes Priorat

2004 Caymus Special Select Cabernet Sauvignon

2004 Cos d’Estornel Bordeaux, St. Estephe

2004 Sea Smoke Pinot Noir, Botella

2004 Stefano Farina Barolo

2005 Albert Mann Pinot Gris Grand Cru

2005 Chateau Lanessan, Haut Medoc

2005 Chateau Talbot St Julien Bordeaux

2005 Frescobaldi Chianti Ruffina Nipozzano Riserva

2005 Ripoli Sans Closa Battlet Gratallops Priorat

2005 Vitanza Brunello di Montalcino

2005 Robert Mondavi cabernet sauvignon, Oakville

2006 Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir, Bauge Au dessus

2006 Domaine Charles Allexant Gevrey-Chambertin “Craite-Palle”

2006 Nadia Viognier-Grenache Blanc-Roussanne

2006 Renato Ratti Nebiolo d’Alba Ochetti

2006 Russian Hill Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley

2006 Kistler Dutton Ranch Chardonnay

2006 Twomey Pinot Noir, Russian River

Ridge Vineyards — Various zinfandels and other old-vine field bleds

Seasmoke Cellars — Various Pinot Noirs

1999 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir, Yorkville Highlands

2004 Williams Selyem Zinfandel, Forchini

2005 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir, Ferrington Vineyard

2005 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir, Flax Vineyard

2005 Williams Selyem Zinfandel, Forchini

2006 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir, Ferrington Vineyard

2006 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir, Bucher Vineyard

2006 Williams Selyem Zinfandel, Forchini Vineyard

Plus, the older vintages poured at the Navarro, Martinelli, Talley, Whitcraft and other tables.

Lee’s Wine Bar

1986 Chateau Guiraud Sauternes

1990 Pahlmeyer Proprietary Red, Caldwell Vineyard

1993 Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

1997 Turley Zinfandel, Duarte Vineyard

1997 Whitehall Lane Merlot, Leonardinin Vineyard

1999 Galleron Cabernet Sauvignon, Ramon Vineyard

2000 Turley Zinfandel, Juvenile Vineyard

2000 Cardinale Red Napa Valley WIne

2002 Paradigm Cabernet Sauvignon

2003 Dominus Estate cabernet sauvignon

2004 Cos d’Estornel bordeaux

2004 Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon

Other wines, to be determined

Beer Garden of Hope — Outstanding American Craft Beers and Ales (from kegs)

Anderson Valley Boont Amber Ale

Lost Coast Great White, Belgian-style witbier

Napa Smith Pilsner

Mission American IPA

Judging 101: The Long Beach Grand Cru AND THE WINNING WINE LIST

July 21, 2015 by evebushman 1 Comment

I was a little fretful…panicked is actually the right word, about judging the Long Beach Grand Cru for two days after only serving as a guest judge in the LA Wine Competition two years ago…once. I recognized the names of some of the judges, and personally knew quite a few, but I thought I better up my game and do some research.

I read Factors Considered in Wine Evaluation by Alexis Hartung (printed in the Winter Issue, 1999 AWS Journal Volume 31, No. 4 found online: http://www.bjcp.org/mead/Factors_Wine_Eval.pdf) and then I was also lucky enough to find the actual Judging Process that the Long Beach Grand Cru uses on their website. (It turned out that I was ready, even before doing the review work.)

Panel l to r – David Stevens, Joe Hart, Stephen Young and Mike Stepanovich.

Shenanigans?

There were no shenanigans during the judging process, but it WAS fun. All those numbered wine glasses crowding around me waiting to be swirled, sniffed, tasted and spat were also accompanied by the appropriate items to cleanse any palate: green olives, sliced gray beef, water crackers and waxy no-flavor cheese. (Good thing our meals were fully flavored!)

My assigned panel was led by David Stevens (Senior Wine Consultant, Davon International), and included Joe Hart (Hart Winery), Mike Stepanovich (Wine Journalist, Bakersfield, CA.) and Stephen H. Young (graduate of the American Wine Society Wine Judge Certification Program).

These knowledgeable gentleman, and the wine, made my nervousness fall away pretty quickly. Soon we were moving at a good pace. At the end of each round, ranging from 6 to a dozen separate tastes, we discussed our findings and came to a consensus if a wine received no medal, bronze, silver or gold.

There was so much thought and consideration in awarding each medal it made me pause, how often do you pause and consider buying a wine based on a medal? Do you consider it as much as you do a wine with a high numerical score? You are doing wineries a disservice to only consider one ranking body, in my now-educated opinion.

Each panel, there were 26 judges in all, had nearly 100 wines to judge on the first day, about half that they second, and finally did a round of sweepstakes “sweeps” to determine which of the Gold medals were all-around favorites of all the judges. Many of the entries and winners came from small producers outside of California. Made me think that a small producer making good wine should definitively enter the Long Beach Grand Cru.

There was a distinct level of camaraderie amongst the judges as some had been doing the Long Beach Grand Cru competition for 20+ years. It was an honor to join them that I hope to repeat annually.

http://longbeachgrandcru.com/2015-judges/

Dinner, More Wine, and the Point of it All

Day 1 closed with a wonderful dinner and unlimited wine tasting (wines from the day and more) at Parker’s Lighthouse. Our private room was full and during the first hour or so many of the judges, Long Beach Grand Cru Board of Directors members and volunteers spilled out into the patio for a view of the Queen Mary.

It was then that a tall gentleman wearing a cowboy slipped a bottled of wine from Stolpman Vineyards onto the tasting table. It took me about a nanosecond to figure out who that was. Tom Stolpman is also on the Board of Directors. A second after that I learned that he met fellow board member, James McAdams, in law school in the 70s and the two practiced in the same Long Beach firm.

Executive Producer Kim Vu welcomed the diners and introduced organizer Magdalena “Maggie” Davis, who in turn thanked the volunteers. Judge and local SCV sommelier, George Skorka then stood up to say “(he received) dignity and kindness from volunteers, my life is better because we spend two days here.”

“An amazing crew has done this for 21 years and the Board of Directors of the Grand Cru thanks you,” Executive Director, Silvia Argueta said. “All of the money made from the event goes to the Legal Aid of Long Beach and the lawyers that dedicate themselves to poverty law. Long Beach has the second highest number of children living in poverty and they work to lower that number every year.”

Tom Stolpman commented that we need to reach out and help others by serving in city council, etc., as that helps the common good and that equals legal aid. “At the end of the day the message of tonight is that we all walk out of here thinking that we are doing better and maybe not enough. Thank you for feeling that.” It was a sobering thought. Support it and buy a ticket, $50 off with code EVES WINE àhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/2015-long-beach-grand-cru-public-tasting-tickets-16239099584?discount=EVESWINE

The Winners

Sweepstakes Nominees

Alba Vineyard, Chambourcin, 2012, Alba Estate Vineyard Chambourcin, Warren Hills

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Cabernet Franc, 2013, Estate Bottled & Produced, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Anyela’s Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, 2013 Riesling, Estate Grown & Bottled, Finger Lakes

Balletto Vineyards, Rose of Pinot Noir, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Russian River

Bex, Riesling, 2013, Nahe

Bodegas Marilena, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, 2012, Maxixe, Valle de Guadalupe

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Block II & Langley, Riesling, 2014, Block II & Langley, Estate Blend, Michigan

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Medium Dry, Riesling, 2014, Smokey Hollow, Single Vineyard, Old Mission Peninsula

Cakebread Cellars, Dancing Bear Ranch, 2012, Dancing Bear Ranch, Howell Mountain

Calista, Russian River Pinot Noir, 2012, Russian River Valley

Carmen, Carmenere Gran Reserva, 2012, Chile, Colchagua Valley

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, The Blessed Blend White, NV, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Rhode Island

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, 42° Parallel Chancellor, 2010, Rhode Island

Cedar Creek Winery, Pinot Grigio, 2014, American

Cholame Vineyard, Cross Country, 2012, Cholame Vineyard, Barrel Aged, California, Monterey County

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Icewine, NV, American

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2012, New York

Daniel Gehrs, Rocker Rarities, 2012, Central Coast

Dellatorri, Pinot Grigio, 2014, delle Venezie IGT

Easley Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Indiana

Easley Winery, Sweet Barrel Red, NV, Indiana

Elmaro, West Prairie White, 2014, Reserve, America (Country Appellation)

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, 45 White, 2014, Michigan

Fre, Sparkling Brut, NV, California

Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvée, 2006, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Blancs, NV, Carneros

Goose Watch Winery, Cabernet Franc Rosé, 2014, Finger Lakes

Grape Creek Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, American

Harmony Cellars, Petite Sirah, 2013, Paso Robles

Havens, Merlot Blend, 2012, Napa Valley

Hawley, Pinot Noir, 2013, Oehlman Vineyard, Russian River Valley

J. Lohr Estates, Los Osos Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Joseph Cellars Winery, ZINFANDEL, 2011, Dry Creek Valley, Limited Production, California, Sonoma County

Lopez Island Vineyards and Winery, Siegerrebe, 2014, Estate, Certified Organically Grown Grapes, Puget Sound

Lucky Star, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marc Cellars, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Noceto, Rosato di Sangiovese, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Noceto, Sangiovese, 2012, Reserva, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Pearmund Cellars, Ameritage Reserve, 2013, Reserve, Virginia

Pedroncelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Estate, Dry Creek Valley

pureCru Winery, pureCoz Napa Valley Red Wine, 2010, Napa Valley (AVA)

pureCru Winery, CFM, 2011, Napa Valley

Red Soles Stillhouse, Limoncello – New Brandy infused with lemons, NV, California, Paso Robles

St. James Winery, Strawberry, NV, American

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Gewurztraminer, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Snow Owl, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Twirl, Chardonnay, 2012, California

TWOFOLD, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Small Lot Wine, California, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

Wagner Vineyards, Fathom 107, 2013, Finger Lakes

Wollersheim Winery, Dry Riesling, 2014, American

Red Soles Stillhouse, Limoncello – New Brandy infused with lemons, NV, California, Paso Robles

Daniel Gehrs, Rocker Rarities, 2012, Central Coast

Goose Watch Winery, Cabernet Franc Rosé, 2014, Finger Lakes

Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvée, 2006, Carneros

Elmaro, West Prairie White, 2014, Reserve, America (Country Appellation)

Chairman’s Best of Class

Alba Vineyard, Chambourcin, 2012, Alba Estate Vineyard Chambourcin, Warren Hills

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Cabernet Franc, 2013, Estate Bottled & Produced, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Anyela’s Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, 2013 Riesling, Estate Grown & Bottled, Finger Lakes

Bex, Riesling, 2013, Nahe

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Block II & Langley, Riesling, 2014, Block II & Langley, Estate Blend, Michigan

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Medium Dry, Riesling, 2014, Smokey Hollow, Single Vineyard, Old Mission Peninsula

Carmen, Carmenere Gran Reserva, 2012, Chile, Colchagua Valley

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, The Blessed Blend White, NV, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Rhode Island

Cedar Creek Winery, Pinot Grigio, 2014, American

Cholame Vineyard, Cross Country, 2012, Cholame Vineyard, Barrel Aged, California, Monterey County

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2012, New York

Daniel Gehrs, Rocker Rarities, 2012, Central Coast

Dellatorri, Pinot Grigio, 2014, delle Venezie IGT

Easley Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Indiana

Elmaro, West Prairie White, 2014, Reserve, America (Country Appellation)

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, 45 White, 2014, Michigan

Fre, Sparkling Brut, NV, California

Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvée, 2006, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Blancs, NV, Carneros

Grape Creek Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, American

Harmony Cellars, Petite Sirah, 2013, Paso Robles

Havens, Merlot Blend, 2012, Napa Valley

Hawley, Pinot Noir, 2013, Oehlman Vineyard, Russian River Valley

J. Lohr Estates, Los Osos Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Lopez Island Vineyards and Winery, Siegerrebe, 2014, Estate, Certified Organically Grown Grapes, Puget Sound

Lucky Star, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marc Cellars, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Noceto, Sangiovese, 2012, Reserva, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Pedroncelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Estate, Dry Creek Valley

pureCru Winery, CFM, 2011, Napa Valley

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Gewurztraminer, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Snow Owl, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Twirl, Chardonnay, 2012, California

TWOFOLD, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Small Lot Wine, California, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

Wagner Vineyards, Fathom 107, 2013, Finger Lakes

Wollersheim Winery, Dry Riesling, 2014, American

Double Gold Medal Winners

Balletto Vineyards, Rose of Pinot Noir, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Russian River

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, The Blessed Blend White, NV, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Rhode Island

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Icewine, NV, American

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2012, New York

Cycles Gladiator, Petite Sirah, 2013, California, Central Coast

Easley Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Indiana

Easley Winery, Sweet Barrel Red, NV, Indiana

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, 45 White, 2014, Michigan

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, 45 Bubbly, 2014, Michigan

Fre, Sparkling Brut, NV, California

Havens, Merlot Blend, 2012, Napa Valley

Hooker, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

J. Lohr Estates, Los Osos Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Milbrandt Vineyards, Traditions Merlot, 2012, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Milbrandt Vineyards, Traditions Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Pearmund Cellars, Ameritage Reserve, 2013, Reserve, Virginia

Pedroncelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Estate, Dry Creek Valley

pureCru Winery, pureCoz Napa Valley Red Wine, 2010, Napa Valley (AVA)

Reggae Wines, Red, NV, Indiana

St. James Winery, Moscato, NV, American

St. James Winery, Strawberry, NV, American

Swedish Hill Winery, Vignoles, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Snow Owl, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Wagner Vineyards, Fathom 107, 2013, Finger Lakes

Gold Medal Winners

Alba Vineyard, Chambourcin, 2012, Alba Estate Vineyard Chambourcin, Warren Hills

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Cabernet Franc, 2013, Estate Bottled & Produced, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Andeluna, Malbec, 2014, 1300, Mendoza, Tupungato

Angove Family Winemakers, Family Crest Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre, 2014, McLaren Vale

Anyela’s Vineyards, Dry Riesling, 2013, Anyela’s Vineyards, Finger Lakes

Anyela’s Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, 2013 Riesling, Estate Grown & Bottled, Finger Lakes

Barefoot, Sweet Red, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Red Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Berry Fusion, NV, California

Barefoot Refresh, Perfectly Pink, NV, California

Bex, Riesling, 2013, Nahe

Big Cork Vineyards, Vidal, 2014, Maryland

Bodega Garzón, Albariño, 2014, Uruguay

Bodega Garzón, Tannat, 2013, Uruguay

Bodegas Marilena, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, 2012, Maxixe, Valle de Guadalupe

Boeger Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, El Dorado

Boeger Winery, Zinfandel, 2013, Estate, El Dorado

Bowers Habor Vineyards Medium Sweet, Riesling, 2014, Estate Blend, Old Mission Peninsula

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Block II & Langley, Riesling, 2014, Block II & Langley, Estate Blend, Michigan

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Medium Dry, Riesling, 2014, Smokey Hollow, Single Vineyard, Old Mission Peninsula

Broadside, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Margarita Vineyard, Single Vineyard, Paso Robles

Cakebread Cellars, Dancing Bear Ranch, 2012, Dancing Bear Ranch, Howell Mountain

Calista, Russian River Pinot Noir, 2012, Russian River Valley

Carmen, Carmenere Gran Reserva, 2012, Chile, Colchagua Valley

Carol Shelton, Zinfandel, 2013, Wild Thing Zinfandel, Mendocino County

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, 42° Parallel Chancellor, 2010, Rhode Island

Cartlidge & Browne, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, North Coast

Cedar Creek Winery, Pinot Grigio, 2014, American

Cedar Creek Winery, Waterfall Riesling, 2014, American

Chacewater, Petite Sirah, 2012, Lake County

Chatom Vineyards, Cuvee, 2011, Calaveras County

Cholame Vineyard, Chardonnay, 2012, La Presa Vineyard, Oak Aged, Santa Barbara County

Cholame Vineyard, Cross Country, 2012, Cholame Vineyard, Barrel Aged, California, Monterey County

Clos Pegase Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

Cobblestone Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2009, Napa Valley, Atlas Peak

Cosentino Winery, Zinfandel, 2013, The Zin, Lodi

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Brianna, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Fireboat Red, 2013, New York

Criterion, Carmenere, 2013, Valle Colchagua

Criterion, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Coonawarra

Cycles Gladiator, Chardonnay, 2013, California, Central Coast

Daniel Gehrs, Rocker Rarities, 2012, Central Coast

Dellatorri, Pinot Grigio, 2014, delle Venezie IGT

Dominant Seven, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Draxton, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Nelson Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley

Draxton, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Elmaro, West Prairie White, 2014, Reserve, America (Country Appellation)

Eye Chart, Red Blend, NV, California

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, Chenin Blanc, 2014, American

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, Riesling, 2013, Leelanau Peninsula

Four Vines, Zinfandel “Biker”, 2012, Biker, Paso Robles

Four Vines, Zinfandel “The Sophisticate”, 2012, California, Sonoma County

Four Vines, Zinfandel “Truant”, 2012, Truant, California (State Appellation)

Fresno State Winery, Touriga, 2012, Duarte Vineyards, California

Fulkerson Wine Cellars, Juicy Sweet Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Gallo Family Vineyards, Moscato, NV, California

Girl and Dragon, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Veneto IGT

Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvée, 2006, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Blancs, NV, Carneros

Goose Watch Winery, Traminette, 2014, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Cabernet Franc Rosé, 2014, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Cabernet Franc Ice, 2013, Finger Lakes

Goyette, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Sonoma County

Grape Creek Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Cabernet Trois, 2013, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Mosaic – Bourdeaux blend, 2013, American

Hagafen, Cabernet Franc, 2012, Estate Bottled, Napa Valley

Hagafen, Brut Cuvee Sparkling Wine Methode Champenoise, 2012, Brut, California, Napa Valley

Harmony Cellars, Petite Sirah, 2013, Paso Robles

Havens, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Hawley, Pinot Noir, 2013, Oehlman Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Hyatt Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Hyatt Vineyards, Rattlesnake Hills

J. Lohr Estates, Flume Crossing Sauvigon Blanc, 2014, Arroyo Seco (AVA)

Jamieson Ranch Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

Joseph Cellars Winery, ZINFANDEL, 2011, Dry Creek Valley, Limited Production, California, Sonoma County

Joseph Cellars Winery, CABERNET SAUVIGNON, 2011, Bartholomew Family Vineryard, Estate, California, Napa Valley

Judd’s Hill, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Rutherford, Napa

L.A. Cetto, L.A. CETTO ZINFANDEL, 2013, valle de guadalupe, Estate Bottled, Baja California, Valle de Guadalupe

La Chertosa Old World Wines, Zinfandel, 2013, Reserve, Amador County

La Chertosa Old World Wines, Chardonnay, 2013, Reserve, Sonoma Valley

La Chertosa Old World Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2010, Reserve, Napa Valley (AVA)

La Marca, Prosecco, NV, Veneto IGT

Light Horse, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Lopez Island Vineyards and Winery, Siegerrebe, 2014, Estate, Certified Organically Grown Grapes, Puget Sound

Lucas & Lewellen, Malbec, 2012, Valley View Vineyard, Estate Vineyards, California, Santa Barbara County

Lucky Star, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Lucky Star, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Lucky Star, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Main & Geary, Petite Sirah, 2013, California

Main & Geary, Zinfandel, 2012, Dry Creek Valley

Marc Cellars, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Menage a Trois, Prosecco, NV, Prosecco DOC

Myles & Moore, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

Narmada Winery, Yash-Vir, 2011, Virginia

Noceto, Rosato di Sangiovese, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Noceto, Sangiovese, 2012, Reserva, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Oak Farm Vineyards, Barbera, 2013, Lodi

Oak Mountain Winery, Pinotage, 2012, Estate Grown, Temecula Valley

Open Kimono, Riesling, 2013, Washington

Pedernales Cellars, Pedernales Cellars Texas Viognier Reserve, 2014, Reserve, Texas

pureCru Winery, CFM, 2011, Napa Valley

Ray’s Creek, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Central Coast

Red Soles Stillhouse, California Hooch – New Brandy, NV, California, Paso Robles

Red Soles Stillhouse, Limoncello – New Brandy infused with lemons, NV, California, Paso Robles

Reggae Wines, Blush, NV, Indiana

Rex Goliath, Pinot Noir*, NV, America

Rex Goliath, Sauvignon Blanc*, NV, Australia

Rex Goliath, Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, Chile

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Sonoma County Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Save Me San Francisco, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Bullet Proof Sauvignon Blanc, California

SeaGlass, Chardonnay, 2014, California, Santa Barbara County

SeaGlass, Riesling, 2013, Monterey County

South Creek Vineyards & Winery, 2011 Maestro, 2011, South Creek Vineyards & Winery, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, North Carolina

St. James Winery, Vignoles, 2014, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, Blackberry, NV, American

St. James Winery, Blueberry, NV, American

Stonehedge, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Sweet Red, NV, California

Swedish Hill Winery, Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Blue Waters Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Terra dOro, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Santa Barbara County

Terra dOro, Zinfandel, 2013, Amador County

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Riesling, 2014, Lahoma Vineyard, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Chardonnay, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Gewurztraminer, 2014, Finger Lakes

Trailhead, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Trecini, MERLOT, 2013, DUNN, California, Russian River Valley

Twirl, Chardonnay, 2012, California

TWOFOLD, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Small Lot Wine, California, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

Ventana, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Ventana, Estate Grown, Arroyo Seco (AVA)

Viansa Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Sonoma Valley

Vina Ventisquero, Carmenere, 2012, Colchagua

Vista da Régua, Port Blend, 2013, Caráter, Douro DOC

Wagner Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, Finger Lakes

Wakefield/Taylors, Wakefield/Taylors Merlot, 2014, Australia, Clare Valley

Wave Series, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Leyda Valley

Whispering Oaks Winery, Blueberry Blush, 2015, Florida

Windsor Vineyards, Zinfandel, 2013, Platinum Series, Dry Creek Valley

Windsor Vineyards, Merlot, 2013, Platinum Series, Alexander Valley

Wine Sisterhood, Passionate Pinot Grigio, NV, California

Wollersheim Winery, Prairie Fume, 2014, American

Wollersheim Winery, Dry Riesling, 2014, American

ZD, Pinot Noir, 2013, Carneros

Silver Medal Winners

2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Project Z, 2013, Washington

2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Meyer Reserve, Washington

3 Ball, Zinfandel, 2012, California

Acronym, Red Blend, 2013, California

Adored, Red Blend, 2013, California, North Coast

Alba Vineyard, Chelsea Dry Rosé, 2014, Chelsea Dry Rosé, Warren Hills

Alba Vineyard, Riesling, 2014, Alba Estate Vineyard Dry Riesling, Warren Hills

Alcantara Vineyards, Red Blend, NV, Confluence VI, Arizona, Yavapai County

Alcantara Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, Arizona, Yavapai County

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Merlot, 2012, Alexander Valley

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Estate Grown & Bottled, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Alpen Cellars, Chardonnay, 2014, Trinity Lakes

Alpen Cellars, Pinot Noir, 2013, Trinity Lakes

Angove Family Winemakers, Dr. Angove Recipe Red Blend, 2013, South Australia

Angove Family Winemakers, Family Crest Shiraz, 2013, McLaren Vale

Anyela’s Vineyards, Avail, 2013, 2013 Avail, Estate Vineyards, Finger Lakes

Balletto Vineyards, Teresa’s Chardonnay, 2014, Estate Bottled & Produced, Russian River Valley

Balletto Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2013, Estate Grown, Estate Bottled, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley

Balverne, Chardonnay, 2013, Unoaked, Russian River Valley

Bandit, Chardonnay, NV, California

Bandit, Red Blend, NV, California

Barefoot, Chardonnay, NV, California

Barefoot, Merlot, NV, California

Barefoot, Pinot Noir, NV, California

Barefoot, Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, Argentina

Barefoot, Riesling, NV, California

Barefoot, Sauvignon Blanc, NV, California

Barefoot, Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot, Red Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot, Pink Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot, Rosa Red Blend, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Tropical Fusion, NV, California (State Appellation)

Barefoot Bubbly, Prosecco, NV, Italy

Barefoot Bubbly, Moscato Spumante, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Brut Cuvee, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Peach Fusion, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Citrus Fusion, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Pink Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot Refresh, Crisp White, NV, California

Barefoot Refresh, Summer Red, NV, California

Big Cork Vineyards, Syrah Rosé, 2014, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, 2013, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, Barbera, 2013, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, Merlot, 2013, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Maryland

Black Box Wines, Merlot (2013), 2013, California

Black Box Wines, Malbec (2014*), 2014, Argentina, Mendoza

Black Willow Winery, Classic Diamond, 2014, Estate Bottled & Produced, New York State

Bodegas Marilena, 2011, Malaguena, Valle de Guadalupe

Boeger Winery, Barbera, 2012, Estate, El Dorado

Borrellie, Zinfandel, 2013, Sonoma County

Cabpothesis, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Lodi

Calista, Pinot Noir “The Coast Range”, 2012, The Coast Range, California (State Appellation)

Carol Shelton, Pinot Noir, 2013, Larson Vineyard, Carneros (Sonoma)

Carol Shelton, Petite Sirah, 2012, Florence Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley

Carol Shelton, Zinfandel, 2013, Piazza Vineyard, Lodi

Cartlidge & Browne, Merlot, 2013, North Coast

Cedar Creek Winery, LaBelle Vie, 2014, American

Cedar Creek Winery, Gewurztraminer, 2014, American

Cell Block, Shackled Red, 2013, Sonoma County

Chacewater, Zinfandel, 2013, California, Sierra Foothills

Chacewater, Gwin, 2012, California, Lake County

Chacewater, Nell, 2012, Red Hills

Chalkboard, Red Blend, 2013, California

Charles & Charles, Rose, 2014, Washington, Columbia Valley

Cholame Vineyard, Rose, NV, La Presa Vineyard, Barrel Aged, Central Coast

Chronic Cellars, Spritz & Giggles, NV, California

Chronic Cellars, Dead Nuts, 2013, Paso Robles

Chronic Cellars, Sofa King Bueno, 2013, Paso Robles

Chronic Cellars, Purple Paradise, 2013, Paso Robles

Clos Pegase Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Mitsuko’s Vineyard, Napa Valley

Coastal Oak, Chardonnay, 2012, California

Coastal Oak, Pinot Noir, 2012, California

Collavini, Pinot Grigio, 2013, Villa Caniungo, Friuli DOC

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Lux Pinot Noir, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Riesling, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Cabernet Zinfandel, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Malbec, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Chardonnay, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Viognier, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Pinot Noir, NV, American

Cosentino Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, The Cab, Lodi

Cosentino Winery, The Dark, 2013, Lodi

Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Merlot, 2012, Cougar Hills Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Walla Walla Valley

Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Anniversary Cuvee, 2011, Cougar Hills Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Walla Walla Valley

Coyote Moon Vineyards, River Time, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Island Mama, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Twisted Sister, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, River Run, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Frontenac Blanc, 2012, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, La Crescent, 2013, New York

Criterion, Rioja, 2009, Rioja DOCa

Criterion, Malbec, 2012, Mendoza, Uco Valley

Cult X, Pinot Noir, 2013, California, Russian River Valley

Cult X, Meritage, 2012, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Cycles Gladiator, Merlot, 2013, California, Central Coast

Cycles Gladiator, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California, Central Coast

D & L Carinalli Vineyards, Chardonnay, 2013, D & L Carinalli Vineyards, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Russian River Valley

Darkhorse, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Darkhorse, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Darkhorse, Merlot, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Davis Bynum Winery, Jane’s Vineyard, Single Vineyard Pinot Noir, 2013, Jane’s Vineyard, Single Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Dominant Seven, Chardonnay, 2012, California

Dominant Seven, Red Blend, 2012, California

Don Ernestos, CLARNET Red Table Wine, 2014, California, Lodi

Donovan-Parke, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Donovan-Parke, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Donovan-Parke, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Duck Commander, Wood Duck Chardonnay, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Duck Commander, Pintail Moscato, 2013, California

Duck Commander, Miss Priss Pink Moscato, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Duck Commander, Triple Threat Red Blend, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Dusk To Dawn, Chardonnay, 2013, California, Russian River Valley

Easley Winery, Sweet Barrel White, NV, Indiana

Eastpoint, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Eberle, Zinfandel, 2013, Steinbeck, Wine-Bush & Cocavin, Paso Robles

Eberle, 2012, Paso Robles

Eberle, Barbera, 2012, Paso Robles

Ektimo Vineyards, Zinfandel, 2013, Dry Creek Valley

Ektimo Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2013, Russian River Valley

Elder Rock, Chardonnay, 2013, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Monterey

Elmaro, Vidal, 2013, America (Country Appellation)

Fancy Pants, Chardonnay, 2012, California

Fancy Pants, Red, 2013, California

Fancy Pants, Processo, NV, Prosecco DOC

Fifty Shades of Grey, White Silk, 2013, California

Fifty Shades of Grey, Red Satin, 2012, California

Flint & Steel, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, California, Napa Valley

Four Vines, Zinfandel “Maverick”, 2012, Amador County, Sierra Foothills

Four Vines, “Skeptic” Petite Sirah, 2013, Paso Robles

Four Vines, “Willing” Chardonnay, 2013, Monterey

Frank Family Vineyards, Chardonnay, 2013, Napa Valley

Frank Family Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2013, Napa Valley

Frank Family Vineyards, Zinfandel, 2012, Napa Valley

Fresno State Winery, Sangiovese, 2011, Duarte Vineyards, California

Fresno State Winery, Merlot, 2012, Duarte Vineyards, San Joaquin County

Fresno State Winery, Petite Sirah, 2009, Duarte Linden Hills Vineyard, Single Vineyard, San Joaquin County

Frogtown Cellars, 404, 2011, Estate, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Georgia

Frogtown Cellars, Convergence, 2011, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, American

Frogtown Cellars, Compulsion, 2012, American

Frogtown Cellars, Propaganda, 2011, Frogtown Cellars Dahlonega, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Georgia, Lumpkin County

Fulkerson Wine Cellars, Juicy Sweet Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Galen Glen, Riesling, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Pennsylvania

Galleano winery, Sherry, NV, Mary Margaret Sherry, Cucamonga Valley

Girl and Dragon, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California, North Coast

Gloria Ferrer, Sonoma Brut, NV, Sonoma County

Gloria Ferrer, Carneros Cuvée, 2004, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Noirs, NV, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, VA de VI, NV, Sonoma County

Gloria Ferrer, Chardonnay, 2012, Carneros

Goose Watch Winery, Golden Spumanté, NV, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Classic Cream Sherry, NV, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Snow Goose, NV, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Finalé White Port, 2013, Finger Lakes

Goyette, Pinot Noir, 2012, Sonoma Coast

Grape Creek Vineyards, Merlot, 2013, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Bellissimo – Super Tuscan Styled, 2012, Texas

Grape Creek Vineyards, Rendezvous, 2013, Texas

Grape Creek Vineyards, Cabernet Blanc, 2014, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Grand Rouge, 2014, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Petite Sirah, 2013, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Cuvee Blanc, 2014, Texas

Grape Creek Vineyards, Riesling, 2014, American

Graton Cellars, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Greater Than One >1, 2 Red Blend, 2013, California

Greater Than One >1, 3 White Blend, 2013, California

Hagafen, Merlot, 2013, Estate Bottled, Napa Valley

Halcyon, Petit Verdot, 2012, Vintner’s Select, Lodi (AVA)

Handsome Devil, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Handsome Devil, Red Blend, 2013, California

Harmony Cellars, Red Bordeaux, 2011, Diamond Reserve Aria, Meritage, Paso Robles

Harmony Cellars, Zinfandel, 2013, Grandpa Barlogio, Paso Robles

Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Petite Sirah, 2011, Red Hills AVA, Demeter Certified Biodynamic® Grapes, California, Lake County

Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2009, Lake County, Red Hills

Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Latigo- Fortified Dessert Wine, 2010, Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Biodynamic Grapes, Red Hills Lake County

Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Red Hills AVA, Demeter Certified Biodynamic® Grapes, California, Lake County

Hawley, Pinot Noir, 2013, Estines Vineyard, Certified Organically Grown Grapes, Russian River Valley

Hawley, Zinfandel, 2013, Ponzo Vineyard, California, Russian River Valley

Hawley, Petite Sirah, 2013, Dry Creek Valley

Heliodoro, Pinot Noir, 2013, Dos Sobrinos, California, Russian River Valley

Hyacinth, Pinot Noir, 2012, Santa Lucia Highlands

Hyatt Vineyards, Merlot, 2012, Hyatt Vineyards, Rattlesnake Hills

Hyatt Vineyards, Roadside Market Red, 2012, Hyatt Vineyards, Rattlesnake Hills

Hyatt Vineyards, Syrah, 2012, Hyatt Vineyards, Rattlesnake Hills

It”So, Merlot, NV, California

J. Lohr Estates, Bay Mist White Riesling, 2014, Monterey County

J. Lohr Estates, Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

J. Lohr Vineyard Series, CAROL’S VINEYARD Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, St. Helena ~ Napa Valley (AVA)

Jamieson Ranch Vineyards, “Silver Spur” Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Limited, Napa Valley

Jewelry Box, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Central Coast

Jewelry Box, Chardonnay, 2012, Central Coast

Joel Gott, Cabernet Sauvignon #815, 2013, California

Joel Gott, Pinot Noir, 2013, California, Sonoma County

Joseph Cellars Winery, Chardonnay, 2012, Thomas LaTour Vineyard Mt Veeter Hyde Clone 110R Root Stock, Limited Edition, California, Napa Valley, Mount Veeder

Joseph Cellars Winery, Cellar Select Blend Cabernet, 2011, Napa Valley, Limited Production, California, Napa Valley

Judd’s Hill, Red Blend, 2011, Napa

L.A. Cetto, L. A. CETTO PETITE SIRAH PRIVATE RESERVE., 2010, VALLE DE GUADALUPE, Reserva, Baja California, Valle de Guadalupe

L.A. Cetto, L. A. CETTO CHENÍN BLANC, 2014, valle de guadalupe, Estate Bottled, Baja California, Valle de Guadalupe

La Rusticana d ‘Orsa, La Rusticana d’Orsa Cinque, 2012, Santa Cruz Mountains, Santa Cruz Mountains/Santa Clara Valley

Lafond Winery, Pinot Noir, 2011, Arita Hills Vineyard, Santa Rita Hills

Lafond Winery, Pinot Noir, 2013, SRH, Santa Rita Hills

Lafond Winery, Pinot Noir, 2011, Santa Rita Hills

Le Vigne Winery, Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Le Vigne Winery, Chardonnay, 2014, Paso Robles

Le Vigne Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Paso Robles

Leopard Frog, Titillation MCC Pinotage Prestige Cuvee, 2011, Limited Release, Stellenbosch

Lions Peak, Lionesse, 2012, Paso Robles

Lions Peak, Proprietor’s Reserve, 2012, Paso Robles

Lions Peak, Vis a Vis, 2012, Paso Robles

Long Valley Ranch, Pinot Noir, 2013, Monterey

Lucas & Lewellen, Rose of Pinot Noir, 2014, Estate Vineyards, California, Santa Barbara County

Lucas & Lewellen, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Valley View Vineyard, Estate Vineyards, California, Santa Barbara County

Magistrate, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

Main & Geary, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Main & Geary, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Main & Geary, Pinot Noir, 2013, Sonoma Coast

Marc Cellars, Cabernet, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marlo, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Gewurztraminer, 2013, Lake Erie

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Pinot Grigio, 2013, Finger Lakes

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Riesling, 2013, Faulkenhauser Block, Lake Erie

Menage a Trois, Merlot, 2013, California

Menage a Trois, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Menage a Trois, Moscato, 2013, California

Menage a Trois, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Middle Sister, Drama Queen, Pinot Grigio, NV, California

Middle Sister, Mischief Maker, Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, California

Middle Sister, Sweet and Sassy, Moscato, NV, California

Middle Sister, Goodie Two Shoes, Pinot Noir, NV, California (State Appellation)

Milbrandt Vineyards, The Estates Merlot, 2011, Washington, Wahluke Slope

Milbrandt Vineyards, The Estates Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Washington, Wahluke Slope

Monogamy, Truly Madly Deeply, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, North Coast

Montevina Winery, Independence Point Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Montevina Winery, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Mullan Road, Columbia Valley Red Wine, 2012, Columbia Valley

Narmada Winery, Reflection, 2011, Virginia

Newmans Own, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Newmans Own, Common Good Red Blend, 2013, California

Nitty Gritty, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

Noceto, Noceto Sangiovese, 2012, Estate Bottled & Produced, Amador County

Oak Mountain Winery, Chardonnay, 2014, Temecula Valley

Oak Mountain Winery, Fume Blanc, 2014, Temecula Valley

Obsidian Ridge, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Single Vineyard, Red Hills Lake County

Obsidian Ridge, “Half Mile” Proprietary Red Blend, 2011, Single Vineyard, Red Hills Lake County

Ogio, Prosecco, NV, Prosecco DOC

Owl Ridge, Syrah, 2012, Russian River

Owl Ridge, Sauvginon Blanc, 2014, Dry Creek Valley

Parkers Estate, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Parkers Estate, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Sonoma County

Pearmund Cellars, Petit Verdot, 2013, Toll Gate Vineyard, Barrel Aged, Virginia, Fauquier County

Pearmund Cellars, Petit Manseng, 2014, South River Vineyard, Virginia

Pearmund Cellars, Cabernet Franc, 2013, Toll Gate Vineyard, Virginia, Fauquier County

Pedernales Cellars, Pedernales Cellars Texas GSM, 2013, Texas

Pedernales Cellars, Pedernales Cellars Texas Viognier, 2014, Texas

Pedroncelli, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, East Side Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley

Pedroncelli, Chardonnay, 2014, F. Johnson Vineyard, Single Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley

Penman Springs Vineyard, Merlot, 2011, Paso Robles

Pico & Vine, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Pico & Vine, Pinot Noir, 2013, California, Russian River Valley

Piledriver, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

Piledriver, Red Blend, 2013, Paso Robles

Poseidon Vineyard, Estate Chardonnay, 2013, Single Vineyard, Carneros

Poseidon Vineyard, Estate Pinot Noir, 2013, Single Vineyard, Carneros

Postcards, Merlot, 2012, North Coast

Promisqous, Red, NV, California

Purple Cowboy, Trail Boss Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California, Paso Robles

Rampage, “Lodi” Zinfandel, 2012, Lodi

Rampage, Red Wine Blend, 2012, California

Randall Monroe, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Randall Monroe, Zinfandel, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Ray’s Creek, Chardonnay, 2013, Central Coast

Rays Station Winery, Merlot, 2013, Mendocino County

Red Soles Winery, Monkeyshine – Aged Port Style, NV, Paso Robles, Willow Creek District

Reggae Wines, White, NV, Indiana

Rex Goliath, Chardonnay*, NV, American

Rideau Vineyard, Estate Syrah, 2013, Rideau Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, California, Santa Ynez Valley

Rideau Vineyard, Siempre, 2013, Happy Canyon Vineyard, Estate Produced and Bottled, California, Santa Ynez Valley

Ringleader, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Ringleader, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Ringleader, Red Wine, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Robert Hall, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Paso Robles (AVA)

Robert Hall, Cuvee de Robles, 2014, California, Paso Robles

Robert Hall, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Paso Robles (AVA)

Rock Falls Vineyards, Chardonnay, 2014, California

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Knotty Vines, Estate Zinfandel, 2012, Knotty Vines, Estate Vineyards, Estate Vineyards, Sonoma County, Northern Sonoma

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Sonoma County Merlot, 2012, Sonoma County

Ron Rubin, Pinot Noir, 2013, Family Owned, Russian River

Roza Ridge, Syrah, 2010, Roza Ridge, Rattlesnake Hills

Roza Ridge, Malbec, 2011, Roza Ridge, Rattlesnake Hills

Roza Ridge, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Roza Ridge, Rattlesnake Hills

Sage Hill, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Sage Hill, Malibu Coast

Santa Barbara Winery, Pinot Noir, 2013, Santa Rita Hills

Santa Barbara Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Santa Ynez Valley

Santa Barbara Winery, Gewurztraminer, 2014, Santa Barbara County

Santa Barbara Winery, Syrah, 2012, Santa Ynez Valley

Save Me San Francisco, Pinot Noir, 2013, Soul Sister Pinot Noir, California

Sea Monster, Chardonnay, 2013, Los Alamos Vineayrd, Single Vineyard, Santa Barbara County

Sea Monster, Octopussy, 2014, California, Central Coast

SeaGlass, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Santa Barbara County

Shadowland, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Washington

Shiloh Road, Pinot Noir, 2013, Sonoma County

Sol Rio, White Sangria, NV, California

St. James Winery, Norton, 2013, Estate, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, Cynthiana Norton, 2013, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, 2013, Pioneer Red, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, 2013, Pioneer White, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, NV, Friendship School White, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, Riesling, NV, American

St. James Winery, Raspberry, NV, American

Stateland, Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Stateland, Chardonnay, 2012, Reserve, Santa Maria Valley

Stateland, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Paso Robles

Stemilt Creek, Sweet Adelaide, NV, Signature Blend, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Stemilt Creek, Nettie Rose’, NV, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Stephen Vincent, Chardonnay, 2012, California, Sonoma County

Stephen Vincent, Crimson, 2012, California, Monterey County

Storyteller, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Sonoma County

Storyteller, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Sonoma County

Storyteller, Red Blend, 2013, Sonoma County

Stray, Riesling, 2013, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, White Zinfandel, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Merlot, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Gewurztraminer, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Zinfandel, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Riesling, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Pinot Grigio, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Pinot Noir, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Red Blend, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Red Moscato, NV, California

Swedish Hill Winery, Riesling Cuvée, NV, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Chardonnay, Riesling, 2014, Blue Waters, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Dry Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Cynthia Marie Port, NV, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Maréchal Foch, 2014, Finger Lakes

Terra dOro, Chenin Blanc/Viognier, 2014, California, Clarksburg

The Show, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Pinot Noir Rosé, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Traminette, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Pinot Gris, 2014, Finger Lakes

Three Thieves, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Three Thieves, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Three Thieves, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Trecini, ZINFANDEL, 2013, BRANNAN, Single Vineyard, Rockpile

Trinity Oaks, Caberent Sauvignon, 2013, California

Trinity Oaks, Chardonnay, 2014, California

Trinity Oaks, Merlot, 2013, California

Trinity Oaks, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Trinity River Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Grown, Produced and Bottled, Willow Creek (Humboldt)

Trinity River Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Willow Creek (Humboldt)

Trinity River Vineyards, Sangiovese, 2013, Unfined & Unfiltered, Willow Creek (Humboldt)

Trinity River Vineyards, Merlot, 2013, Unfined & Unfiltered, Willow Creek (Humboldt)

Trueblood, Chardonnay, 2011, Poseidon Vineyards, Carneros

Trueblood, Chardonnay, 2012, Poseidon Vineyards, Carneros

Twirl, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Twirl, Red Blend, 2012, California

Van Roekel Estate, Tempranillo, 2012, Temecula Valley

Van Roekel Estate, Viognier, 2014, Estate Produced and Bottled, Temecula Valley

Ventana Vineyards, Rubystone, 2014, Monterey County, Estate Grown & Bottled, Arroyo Seco (AVA)

Vina Sympatica Sparkling Wines, Sparkling Red, NV, Lodi

Wagner Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, Finger Lakes

Wakefield/Taylors, Wakefield/Taylors Cabernet Sauvignon, 2014, Australia, Clare Valley

Windsor Oaks Vineyards & Winery, Super Tuscan, 2013, Chalk Hill

Windsor Oaks Vineyards & Winery, Cabernet Franc, 2012, Reserve, Chalk Hill

Windsor Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Private Reserve, Sonoma County

Windsor Vineyards, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Private Reserve, Sonoma County

Wine Sisterhood, Magical Moscato, NV, California

Wollersheim Winery, White Riesling, 2014, American

Wollersheim Winery, Prairie Blush, 2014, Wisconsin (State Appellation)

ZD, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

ZD, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Zynthesis Cellars, Zinfandel, 2013, Lodi

Bronze Medal Winners

Carol Shelton, Rosé, 2014, Wild Thing Rosé, Mendocino County

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, White Lotus, 2012, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Rhode Island

Cartlidge & Browne, Pinot Noir, 2013, North Coast

Chalkboard, Malbec, 2014, Argentina

Clos Pegase Winery, Chardonnay, 2013, Mitsuko’s Vineyard, Carneros

Coastal Oak, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Cobblestone Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2010, New Zealand, Martinborough

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Gewurztraminer, NV, American

Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Cabernet Franc, 2011, Cougar Hills Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Walla Walla Valley

Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Caberent Sauvignon, 2011, Cougar Hills Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Walla Walla Valley

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Chardonnay, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Moscato, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Casa Papa Red, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Frontenac, 2012, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2011, New York

Cryptic, Cryptic, 2012, California (State Appellation)

D & L Carinalli Vineyards, Pinot Grigio, 2013, D & L Carinalli Vineyards, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Russian River Valley

Daniel Gehrs, Chardonnay, 2014, Central Coast

Darkhorse, Red Blend, NV, No Appellation

De Bortoli DB Family Selection, Shiraz, 2014, Heathcote

Deep Purple, Zinfandel, 2012, California, Lodi

Don Ernestos, Beret, 2014, Napa Valley, California, Napa Valley

Don Ernestos, COLLAGE White wine blend, 2014, California, Lodi

Dona Paula, Sauvignon Blanc Los Cardos, 2014, Tupungato

Draxton, Malbec, 2013, Dry Creek Valley

Dusk To Dawn, Pinot Noir, 2013, California, Russian River Valley

Eberle, Sangiovese, 2013, Wine-Bush & Hidden Valley Vineyard, Paso Robles

Eberle, Chardonnay, 2014, Eberle Estate, Paso Robles

Eberle, Viognier, 2014, Mill Road Vineyard, Paso Robles

Eberle, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Eberle Estate, Paso Robles

Edenbrook, Pinot Grigio, 2013, California

Ektimo Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Dry Creek Valley

Elder Rock, Petite Sirah, 2013, Monterey

Elder Rock, Red Blend, 2013, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Monterey

Elmaro, Marquette Rose, 2014, Robyn, Estate, Upper Mississippi River Valley

Fancy Pants, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Fancy Pants, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California

Fancy Pants, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Folie à Deux, Merlot Alexander Valley, 2012, Alexander Valley

Fre, Chardonnay, NV, California

Fre, Moscato, NV, California

Fresno State Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Duarte Vineyards, California

Fresno State Winery, Tempranillo, 2011, Duarte Vineyards, California

Frogtown Cellars, Disclosure Steel Chardonnay, 2012, American

Frogtown Cellars, Petit Manseng, 2013, Frogtown Cellars Estate, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Georgia, Lumpkin County

Fulkerson Wine Cellars, Gruner Veltliner, 2014, William Vigne, Seneca Lake

Galleano winery, Grenache Rosé, NV, August Grenache, Cucamonga Valley

Galleano winery, Zinfandel, NV, Pioneer’s Legendary Zinfandel, Cucamonga Valley

Gallo Family Vineyards, Sweet Red, NV, California

Gallo Family Vineyards, Pink Moscato, NV, California (State Appellation)

Gallo Family Vineyards, Red Moscato, NV, California (State Appellation)

Gallo Family Vineyards, White Zinfandel, NV, California

Gloria Ferrer, Pinot Noir, 2012, Estate Grown, Carneros

Goyette, Chardonnay, 2012, Sonoma Coast

Grape Creek Vineyards, Serendipity, 2012, American

Graton Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Gray Ghost, Vidal Blanc, 2014, Virginia

Greater Than One >1, 3 Red Blend, 2013, California

Hagafen, Chardonnay, 2014, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

Hagafen, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Estate Grown & Bottled, California, Napa Valley

Havens, Syrah Blend, 2012, Black & Blue, Napa Valley

J. Lohr Estates, South Ridge Syrah, 2013, Paso Robles (AVA)

J. Lohr Estates, Riverstone Chardonnay, 2014, Arroyo Seco

J. Lohr Vineyard Series, Fog’s Reach Pinot Noir, 2012, Arroyo Seco

Judd’s Hill, Viognier, 2014, Napa

Kumbaya Wines, Red Wine, 2013, California (State Appellation)

L.A. Cetto, L. A. CETTO PETITE SIRAH, 2013, Estate Bottled & Produced, Baja California, Guadalupe Valley

Lafond Winery, Chardonnay, 2013, Musque Clone, Santa Rita Hills

Lafond Winery, Pinot Noir, 2012, Martin Ray Clone, Santa Rita Hills

Lawer Estates, Rose, 2014, Betsy’s Vineyard, California, Sonoma County, Knights Valley

Lawer Estates, Viognier, 2013, Betsy’s Vineyard, Sonoma County, Knights Valley

Le Vigne Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

Leopard Frog, Southern Sirens, 2013, Limited Release, South Africa, Stellenbosch

Light Horse, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Long Valley Ranch, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Monterey

Lopez Island Vineyards and Winery, Fireside Port, 2010, Columbia Valley AVA

Lucas & Lewellen, Pinot Noir GC H9, 2013, GOODCHILD HIGH 9 VINEYARD, Estate Vineyards, California, Santa Barbara County

Lucky Star, Petite Sirah, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Magistrate, Chardonnay, 2012, Napa Valley

Main & Geary, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Main & Geary, “Rose” Pinot Noir, 2014, California

Marc Cellars, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marc Cellars, Pinot Grigio, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marlo, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Marlo, Merlot, 2012, California

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Riesling, 2013, Nutt Road, Finger Lakes

Menage a Trois, Midnight Dark Red Blend, 2013, California

Menage a Trois, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California

Metz Road, Pinot Noir, 2012, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Monterey

Metz Road, Chardonnay, 2012, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Monterey

MillsReef, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Hawkes Bay

Montevina Winery, Amita Hills Merlot, 2013, California

Myles & Moore, Chardonnay, 2013, Monterey

Napa Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Narmada Winery, Tannat, 2010, Virginia

Newmans Own, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Nitty Gritty, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Napa Valley

Noceto, Barbera, 2012, Linsteadt Vineyard, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Oak Mountain Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Temecula Valley

Ogio, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Puglia IGT

Our Daily Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Page Mill Winery, Angela’s Cuvee, 2014, Alameda County – Livermore Valley

Page Mill Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, California, Livermore Valley

Pamela’s, Un-Oaked Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County, Unoaked, California, Sonoma County

Parkers Estate, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Pedroncelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Three Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley

Pico & Vine, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Postcards, Red Blend, 2012, Lodi

Postcards, Chardonnay, 2012, North Coast

Prix, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Moskowite Ranch Block 53, Estate Bottled, California, Napa Valley

Prix, Pinot Noir, 2013, Montington, Proprietor Grown, Napa Valley, Coombsville

Purple Cowboy, Tenacious Red, 2013, Paso Robles

Randall Monroe, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Rays Station Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Mendocino County

Reata, Chardonnay, 2012, California, Sonoma, Carneros

Reata, Three County Pinot Noir, 2013, San Benito, California, Monterey

Rex Goliath, Pinot Grigio*, NV, America

Rex Goliath, Sangria*, NV, American

Rex Goliath, Malbec*, NV, Argentina

Rideau Vineyard, “Daliet” Reserve Estate Syrah, 2013, Rideau Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, California, Santa Ynez Valley

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Charlotte’s Home, Estate Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Estate Vineyards, Northern Sonoma

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Russian River Valley, Estate Pinot Noir, 2013, Estate Vineyards, California

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Alexander Valley, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Alexander Valley, Estate Vineyards, Estate Vineyards, Alexander Valley

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Sonoma County

Ron Rubin, Pinot Noir, 2012, Green Valley of Russian River Valley

Sage Hill, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Sage Hill, Malibu Coast

Save Me San Francisco, Chardonnay, 2013, Calling All Angels, California

Save Me San Francisco, Red, 2013, Drops of Jupiter, California

Shiloh Road, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Shiloh Road, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Sonoma County

South Shore Wine Company, Gruner Veltliner, 2013, Rassie Farms, Lake Erie

St. James Winery, Rougeon, NV, Friendship School Red, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, Peach, NV, American

St. James Winery, Cherry, NV, American

Stateland, Pinot Noir, 2013, Santa Barbara County

Stateland, Pinot Noir, 2012, Reserve, Santa Maria Valley

Stemilt Creek, Boss Lady, 2011, Estate Grown and Produced, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Stephen Vincent, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California, Lake County

Stephen Vincent, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California, North Coast

Stonehedge, Meritage, 2014, Napa Valley

Storyteller, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Chardonnay, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, White Merlot, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Chenin Blanc, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Pink Moscato Bubbly, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Bubbly Brut, NV, California

Swedish Hill Winery, Optimus, 2012, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Chardonnay, NV, Blue Waters, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Blanc de Blanc, NV, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Vidal Blanc, 2014, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Cabernet Franc, 2012, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Naturel, NV, Finger Lakes

Swizzle, Pomegranate Sangria, NV, California

Swizzle, Blackberry Sangria, NV, California

Terra dOro, Barbera, 2013, Amador County

Terra dOro, Zinfandel Port, NV, Amador County

The Specialyst, Red Blend, 2013, California

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Cayuga Lake

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Malbec, 2013, Cayuga Lake

Trecini, PINOT NOIR, 2013, VICINI VINEYARD, Single Vineyard, California, Russian River Valley

Trecini, SAUVIGNON BLANC, 2014, California, Russian River Valley

Trinity Oaks, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Trueblood, Pinot Noir, 2012, Poseidon Vineyards, Carneros

Twirl, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Van Roekel Estate, Grenache, 2011, Estate Grown & Bottled, Temecula Valley

Van Roekel Estate, Zinfandel, 2012, Maurice Carrie Vineyard, Estate Grown & Bottled, Temecula Valley

Viansa Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Sonoma Valley

Viansa Winery, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma Valley

Vino Noceto, Rosso, NV, Amador County, Sierra Foothills

Vintners Path, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California

Wagner Vineyards, Riesling, 2012, Finger Lakes

Wakefield/Taylors, Wakefield/Taylors Shiraz, 2014, Australia, Clare Valley

Whiplash, Zinfandel, 2013, California, Lodi

Whispering Oaks Winery, Blueberry Dry, 2015, Florida

Windsor Oaks Vineyards & Winery, Pinot Noir, 2013, Russian River Valley

Wine Sisterhood, Courageous Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, California (State Appellation)

ZD, Chardonnay, 2013, Carneros

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 judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. 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

Vintage Beacon Circa 9/10: Tanya Green’s Wine 661

May 26, 2015 by evebushman Leave a Comment

This week readers get a peak into the wine world of Tanya Green, owner of Wine 661. Tanya recently celebrated her 2nd year with a candlelight party, does beer and wine tastings, live music but I thought it high time we focus on a local lady living the life of a wine bar owner.

Tanya, please tell readers a little about yourself.

I was born and raised in sunny Southern California (Dana Point, more specifically) surfing, playing soccer and traveling. My interest in wine started when I took my first trip to Europe when I was 17. At the time, French and Italian wines were the first I had ever experienced and I became a huge fan! So much so, that a few years later, I found myself spending the entire summer in Italy and learned a lot more about Italian wines (though, to be honest, learning was a by-product of drinking)!

That was the beginning… After college, I began a career in TV and wine was just a hobby, like it is for most people who enjoy it. But a few years ago, I started to realize that wine was more than just a hobby and wouldn’t it be cool if it were my career?! I asked that question to a friend of mine, who then proceeded to send me information on a few wine bars that were for sale in LA. Wine 661 was the first listing she sent me, the first wine bar I checked out and a few months later, it was mine.

I’ve learned a lot since then, both about the business end of things as well as the wine. I’ve learned a lot about my new home, Valencia and the people that live here. I’m very happy about how things have turned out and am proud of where life has taken me. I’ve met a lot of great people here and I believe that to sip on an amazing glass of…whatever, while I chat with people, makes me just about the luckiest girl alive.

And a little about your bar.

Wine 661 is a hidden gem. I don’t advertise and it isn’t terribly visible from the street so I have sort of an underground, word of mouth following that grows and grows each month.

I think people appreciate the ambience, the live music, the ever-evolving wine list and one of the best beer lists this side of Ventura Boulevard. Nothing makes me happier than a stranger off the street walking into my bar telling me they had to come in because they heard that I carry Belgian beers. The truth is, I carry Belgians, Germans, Czech, French, English and a few American micro-brews. I wanted a beer list as interesting as my wine list and a place for husbands/boyfriends to feel comfortable if they were being dragged to a wine bar. In fact, I do as many “Beer Tasting” events as wine tasting events and people love them!

Another one of my other favorite things here are my cheese flights and chocolate flights. If I had to add to my list favorite things (beer & wine being two of them) cheese and chocolate would be on that list too. So I’m pretty excited about being able to offer three great red wines, paired with three amazing cheeses from all over the world OR three reds paired with three different gourmet chocolates with varying cocoa content.

Any upcoming events?

I’m always planning some kind of event…private parties, tastings, trunk shows… The next tasting on the horizon is: I’m having an Oktoberfest Beer Tasting. My beer expert will be here to introduce new and delicious Oktoberfest beers, discuss the history of the three-week party as well as the history of each brewery and different brewing processes that create such different flavor profiles. I also have Live Music every Friday and Saturday night with bands that change weekly to keep it fresh and fun.

Any great wine stories?

My favorite wine story comes from a small winery in Santa Ynez called Stolpman. I fell in love with their Estate Syrah at a wine bar in Pasadena a few years back and knew that when I eventually took over Wine 661, that I had to carry it but when I finally tracked down the wine rep, I was told that they had sold out for the season.

Devastated and unwilling to accept “no” for an answer, I called the Stolpman Tasting Room to see if I could sweet-talk them into finding three cases for me. When someone answered the phone I could tell that it was not the tasting room, rather, it sounded like I had accidentally reached someone’s cell phone. That someone turned out to be Tom Stolpman, owner of Stolpman Vineyards. WOW!

“I’m not sure how I got your cell number, Sir. I must have grabbed the wrong business card off of the counter the last time I was at your tasting room.” He blew me away by asking how he could help me and when I told him I was about to open a wine bar and I HAD to have three cases of his Estate Syrah or else I was going “freak out,” he laughed and told me that I made his day and that I should call his assistant and she’d make sure I got what I wanted.

I made HIS day? He made my day and has been making it ever since. The Stolpman Estate Syrah is DELICIOUS and I’ll carry it until I retire from the wine business.

Pet peeves?

If we’re honest, we all have pet peeves. Mine is not “novice” wine drinkers, as many might think. I actually enjoy being there for someone’s first glass of really great wine or sampling them on something they don’t think they like and surprise, they love it! My pet peeve is when people are too closed off to try something.

Often people have had a bad experience with a particular varietal and decide from that experience that they don’t like that varietal. The truth is, they didn’t like the way that particular winery represented that varietal. There are simply too many countries, with too many soil-types, too many different farming practices and too many wine-making practices to say that. There are more styles of Shiraz, for example, than we even have the time or opportunity to try in one lifetime, so to say, you don’t like Shiraz simply means, you haven’t tried a style of Shiraz that you like…yet.

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

Wine 101: Take Our Quiz and Learn

April 3, 2015 by evebushman Leave a Comment

In looking at new ways to help wine 101ers learn about wine I remembered that in the weeks I was studying for my WSET (Wine and Spirits Education Trust) test I asked the other students to my home for some group study meetings. During one of those sessions one woman had found a really cool website that had a multiple choice quiz. As you answered the questions correctly you would get harder and harder questions. It really did help my education.

This isn’t it, but it does have questions that get gradually harder: http://www.wine-pages.com/resources/quizzes.html

Berry Brothers, a store in London has one also. The first 10 questions start easy and can be exchanged for 10 harder ones, and looks closer to what we studied with: http://www.bbr.com/quiz

Then I decided, what the heck, I’ll do my own for you peeps to learn a little with:

Our Beginners Test

1. What is the average alcohol percentage for wine?

a. Under 5%.

b. Over 15%

c. While both domestic and European wines hover between 13% to 15% alcohol content, some wines are a percentage below or above.

2. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes are widely grown in which area of France:

a. Bordeaux

b. Champagne

c. Rhone Valley

3. True or False: Champagne from Champagne, France, is the same as what we call Sparkling wine made anywhere else.

4. The color of red wine comes primarily from what?

a. The entire grape, red or white.

b. The length of the skin contact in the winemaking process.

c. Food coloring.

5. Finish this sentence, “Burgundy and Chablis wines…”

a. “…were common names for red and white blended wines in the United States about five decades ago.

b. “…are still popular wine names in France.”

c. “…are primarily made from Pinot Noir (Burgundy) and Chardonnay (Chablis) grapes.

d. all of the above.

6. True or False: An Australian Shiraz and a United States grown Syrah are the same grape but grown in different countries.

7. What is the most famous wine grape growing region outside of United States’ Napa Valley?

a. Bordeaux

b. Burgundy

c. Australia

d. South Africa

e. Chile

f. New Zealand

g. None of the above

8. Of the wine regions listed above, which region is the most known for making Champagne?

a. Bordeaux

b. Burgundy

c. Australia

d. South Africa

e. Chile

f. New Zealand

g. None of the above

9. Finish this sentence, “If a wine doesn’t taste good it could be due to…”

a. You ordered a wine that you’ve never had before, and you don’t like it.

b. TCA cork taint, where the cork is faulty and the wine has a wet cardboard mildew smell.

c. You now regret the that price you paid.

d. All of the above.

10. When can you send wine back that you’ve already sampled?

a. You don’t like it.

b. Cork taint.

c. You didn’t see the price.

Bonus question

11. How often to you read Eve’s Wine 101?

a. Every damn day.

b. All of the above.

c. What she said ^^.

Answers: 1: c, 2: a, 3: False, 4: b, 5: d, 6: True, 7: a, 8: g, 9: d, 10: b, 11: a, b and c!

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

Vintage Beacon Circa 12/08: You may not have been there Sunday but you can get these wines…at Valencia Wine Company

March 17, 2015 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Valencia Wine Company’s Annual Holiday Tasting was the wine affair of the season, as promised. Delayed a week by fire and freeway closures there wasn’t a lack of interest or attendance. People needed a holiday now and it served to get them ready for the real ones to come.

This 4th installment was a testament to proprietor Guy Lelarge’s wine influence in the Santa Clarita Valley. And, being the forth time around, wine, guests and good times quadrupled. Enough so that the wines sold, offered at a discount to attendees, were sure to be a hit at many holiday tables in the next few weeks.

And if you’re unsure about what to serve this season with your special meals, use this tasting as a gander into the Valencia Wine Company “store.” I dare you not to add a few delectable wines to your holiday planning list. Your company will know that you have done your research. So let’s get started, or as Simon from the American Idol show says, “Off you go”.

“I went to the first event, 4 years ago, we had 4-5 distributors, and that was a great event,” So stated frequent taster Tim Dixon. “There are so many high-end retail bottles being poured, wines that you never see at a tasting. And year after year it keeps improving. No one does tasting better, no matter where you go, than Guy Lelarge.”

“We did it again,” Lelarge explained. “The finest, the most high end, the best variety of wines from around the world are here.” I had to agree. Guy knew what to serve for the holidays.

My own tasting notes marked several high priced wines that I’ve never seen poured at a tasting before and included, but weren’t limited to (as I might have missed something): Chateau Fonplegade St. Emilion Grand Cru Classe 2005, Bourgogne Clark En Bollery 2005, Pope Cabernet Reserve 2005, Robert Summerland Pinot Noir Nugent 2005, M. Coz Meritage 2005 from Mitch Cosentino’s own property and his Cabernet Reserve 2004, Nickel & Nickel Medina Vineyard Chardonnay 2006, Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 and Chardonnay 2007, Ken Brown Syrah 2003 and Pinot 2005, Dampierre Grand Cuvee Champagne NV and his Blanc de Blancs, Bodegas Mauro 2005, Jocelyn Lonen Napa Cabernet 2005, Gaja Promis 2006 Montes “Napa Angel” Cabernet 2006… no less than 17 pages of wines.

“My favorites so far are everything at Mitch Cosentino’s table,” Said guest Oliver Thomas. I’d drank with Oliver at the Wine Company on occasion and knew his tastes, not always on his native France, to be impeccable. “I recommend that you try the Bodegas Mauro as well.”

The Mauro was a favorite for Sandi Gordon too, “It fits my tongue like a glove”.

From there guests Paul and Jo Ann Vindigni suggested the Chateau Trocard Bordeaux Blanc 2007 reasonably priced for less than $20. Denise Hollert like the La Rioja Alta Vina Alberdei 2001, again for less than $30. There were to be plenty of wines available, and just as appreciated, as their more expensive counterparts.

Paul Young, selling his Rhone varietals exclusively to Lelarge in Santa Clarita, had made a fan of local sommelier, George Skorka, with his Schoffit Pinot Blanc 2005 that Skorka simply described as ‘gorgeous’. I thoroughly enjoyed a decanted wine not on his list: Clos St Jean Chateauneuf du Pape 2006 created by winemaker Philippe Cambie.

From France we traveled to Australia and happily sampled Schild Barossa Shiraz 2006 that consistently had been awarded 90 – 96 ratings from Wine Spectator (WS) magazine throughout the years. Then while trying a Cigale Meritage we were told, by an unassuming 21 year-old taster, Anthony Storniolo, that the Wayne Thomas Petit Verdot 2005 was “A fruit forward wine with just enough tannin and dryness at the end.” I queried Storniolo as to his wine knowledge and he credited Certified Sommelier Instructor, DiMaggio Washington, and the class he had taken in wine appreciation that I keep meaning to take.

In New Zealand, John Adams lingered over the Hinton Pinot Noir 2004 with my husband Eddie before they moved onto a Chapoutier Crozes-Hermitage 2007 from France. I savored the dusty Tohu Sauvignon Blanc 2007 run by the indigenous people of New Zealand, the Maori, while Darlene Gandara enjoyed her Italian wine, Gaja Promis 2006, “It’s a staple in our cellar”.

Mark White, who always promises a donation to his local Rotary club every time his name is mentioned in a story, gave local California vintners, Summerland, an ‘A’ for their Pinot Noir Santa Rita 2006. He also accompanied many of his favorites from the Southern Wine & Spirits table with a surprising giggle. His wife Julie, who I thought was coming to his rescue, wanted us to try her own pairing suggestion of brownies with a Gloria Ferrer Royal Cuvee 2001. I could see where the giggling in this relationship might have started. It was a fun pairing. The only one Lelarge didn’t personally arrange.

Other domestic wines we enjoyed were the Sbragia Merlot Home Ranch 2005, Pope Napa Valley Zinfandel 2005, Angeline Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 and a Bridlewood Estate Syrah 2004 that well deserved its 92 WS rating.

Running into local winemakers, Tomas and Jenny Lukas, I decided to taste with them for awhile. Tomas especially enjoyed the Ken Brown wines, finding “The Syrah nose has pepper, mint, fruit undertones, stiff base…makes me want to eat something roasted.”

Tomas introduced me to his friends, Derrick and Maureen McKaughan, the former described as a drinker and wine expert while the latter said that she knows a good wine when drinks she it. We debated the rating systems between the different experts and preferred to rely on ourselves today.

Well, maybe not exactly on ourselves. Once again, we trusted Guy Lelarge to hold our one free hand.

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

Vintage Beacon 10/09: Traveling Bra Theme at Hit Served with Wine

March 3, 2015 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Soroptimist International of Santa Clarita Valley held their 6^th annual Bras for a Cause inside the Oaks Grille at TPC Valencia on October the 4^th – the first day of clean air (no fires) and crisp weather (no sunscreen required). And that was the only part that hadn’t been meticulously planned. This year was the first time that the decorated bra event had a “theme”…

With boutique items from around the world greeting guests as they meandered up the atrium into the main event, where the Bras serving their Cause was held, guests happily shopped and chatted.

It was the first time Cheri Fleming greeted me at an event, as the Soroptimist’s Governor, her duties included volunteering time.

Then entering the main room, and seeing some wildly decorated Bras, baskets for raffle, and several displays just dedicated to appetizers, I meandered with the ladies in pink. Pink boas, to be exact, that designated the Soroptimist Bras for a Cause committee members from the guests. (Soroptimists who were not on the committee wore black and pink.)

And, for me, shopping with wine is near Nirvana. Lil Lepore, co-owner of Vino 100 Valencia, was once again on tap pouring wine, this time from around the world, which was included in our “passports”:

2007 Laurel Cellars Old Vine Zinfandel/Lodi, Ca.

2007 Hope Estate Pink Label Shiraz /Australia

2006 Asherwood Bogey Red/ Monterey, Ca.

2006 Sevona Estate Cabernet Sauvignon/ Paso Robles, Ca.

2005 Sphere Chardonnay/ Monterey, Ca.

2006 Serenity Reserve White / France

2007 Quarry Road Sauvignon Blanc / New Zealand

2005 Serenity Pinot Grigio / Central Coast, Ca.

I happily sipped from her generous pours, came back more than once, and then gabbed and shopped like everyone else. I bid on “America Shines” because I liked the biker boots that went with, “Abroad” because it came with wine and “Ooh La La” for it’s Parisian theme.

“We got the idea from that movie, Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants,” began co-chair and club historian Lori Hollister. From your ticket looking like a passport, to the food, the items in the boutiques, and of course the bras, they were representing a ‘travel the world’ theme. “Now we want to have an annual theme as this first one was so much fun.”

Others that helped come up with this theme, ‘friends’ as they call themselves and not ‘members’ or ‘networkers’, were Vice President Donna Kreutz and Sandy Mintz.

“This is not a ‘fluffy pink event’ – men are welcome,” said Mintz. “We may be a hardworking group, but we still drink wine!” I was thinking men, wine and bras should work too…so I sent a TwitPic to Twitter and Facebook just to drive them a little wild…for next time!

“We are really pleased with the attendance and how the event is going, “Began Pam Jaffke, club recording secretary. “I think the food is amazing, and everyone is very impressed with the bras and raffle items. The wine is pretty good too. All in all it is a very successful event. We plan to carry on with a theme and this venue next year and build on what we’ve accomplished.”

Before I left, $20 lighter from raffle tickets myself, I spied several ladies enjoying the weather outside. Council member Laurie Ender told me a story:

“Years ago, before I was on the City Council, I attended this event, bid, and won a bra with a USA theme. It had all the glitter like these, but also streamers hanging off of it. I decided that if I won that first election I would wear that bra under my clothes at my first council meeting. I won as the new ‘fit’ for the council – but the bra didn’t!”

Jan. 2010 Vintage Beacon: Out of the Box, Chinese Dinner paired with Wine

December 16, 2014 by evebushman Leave a Comment

On Tuesday January 26^th New Moon Valencia held its first 5-courses 5-wines pairing dinner featuring Michael-David Family of Wines. This was something so new for Santa Clarita – a Chinese Food and wine pairing – that I had to attend.

New Moon is usually described as a Chinese restaurant; this night I was to find that their “Asian-Fusion” styled food is not your typical Chinese.

Michael-David Family of Wines is well known for it’s 7 Deadly Zins and it’s 7 Heavenly Chards. What isn’t well known is how well wine pairs with Chinese food. I searched the net to see what the standard was and found most pair with beer, whites from sparkling to unoaked Chards, but not with many reds.

In What to Drink with What you Eat by Andrew Dornenburg and Karen Page, my bible and starting point for every pairing question, one red wine seemed only tentatively suggested for Chinese food: Zinfandel. With a special italicized notation to avoid tannic wine.

But, in another section of the book, I found that Stir-Fried Asian-Style Beef and Short Ribs could be paired with Cabernet, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Shiraz and the Zin suggested above. I now felt a little more prepped and ready for what might lay ahead.

Led past Asian screens to a private dining area, we were handed tall flutes of Sparkling Duet and wonton wrapped Rangoons filled with minced shrimp, warm cream cheese and scallions.

“The 100% Lodi fruit in this Prosecco-styled sparkling wine is made from both the traditional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay,” began Keith Shulsky, the Southwest Regional Sales manager and Sommelier from Michael David. “This is a good start for our evening. The Michael David family has been in Lodi for 7 generations, with plantings in 1850 and wine production in the early 1900’s, I believe in the family behind the wine.”

We liked the pleasant sweetness of the sparkling against the tang inside of our Rangoons and looked forward to the next wine.

The rich fruit of the 2006 Incognito Viognier was matched with chef Pung’s Cha Shu Barbequed Pork. Guest Erin Dixon was an immediate fan.

Next up was a 2007 Seven Heavenly Chardonnay with New Moon Chicken Salad. New Moon is known as “The first family to introduce Chinese Chicken Salad 45 years ago” with a signature light dressing and nuttiness. Assistant Manager Frank Cerna described the pairing as “Balanced, crisp, this is one of my favorite Chards.” While Keith prompted us into even more interest by telling of the 7 cooperages (different barrel types) used to make the wine “pop in your mouth”.

2006 Sixth Sense Syrah, my personal favorite of the night, and dubbed “a Rhone styled-varietal” was poured alongside a surprising pairing: Shrimp in a Blackbean Sauce. Whether it was the green bell peppers or garlic, all at our table agreed: Shrimp would normally not mate with a Syrah, but the sauce it was cooked in made it work perfectly.

“Shelby’s Beef”, a start of sugar with a bang of black pepper, was served with Incognito “rouge”. I found the pepper a bit daunting, and my husband Eddie had skipped right to the 7 Deadly Zinfandel to have with it instead.

Our last wine of the evening, making it 6 and not 5 in total, was 2006 Gluttony Old Vines Zinfandel. Served with chocolate covered strawberries and a rich chocolate mousse-styled cake, we were all gluttonous…our evening was drawing to an end. We had not only learned and tried something new, we knew we’d be back as Michael David Wines might only be found, at the moment but not for long we agreed, at New Moon Valencia.

New Moon Restaurant Valencia is located in the Gateway Village Center at 28281 Newhall Ranch Ranch Road, Valencia, 91355, 661-257-4321 http://www.newmoonrestaurants.com and you can find more information about the wines at http://www.lodivineyards.com