Single Bottle Post: Knights Bridge 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon

December 27, 2019 by evebushman

In my recent trip to Napa Valley, while visiting Calistoga and one winery in particular, Knights Bridge, we were gifted a bottle of Cab at the end of our visit. I tucked it into our suitcase, with a few others, and felt that since it was a gift I should do one of my one-bottle posts in return. Below are my tasting notes, and below that is the blurb I wrote about their tasting room, the only tasting room housed in a former bank with the only bank vault turned wine vault.

Knights Bridge 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Knights Valley, Sonoma County

320 cases

14.3% alcohol

Color: Opaque, the blackest of black cherries.

Aroma: Sweet plum, black cherry, mellowed balance of spice and tannin, milk chocolate, cigar and oak.

Flavor: Balanced and lingering flavors of ripe blue and black fruit, spice rack, with a slightly sweet finish.

Note on the bottle: I’m a sucker for a weighted bottle with a deep punt. It makes it nicer to pour from, and to me, it heightens awareness to the quality of the wine.

Conclusion: At about $100 a bottle, which is the standard rate for a Napa Valley Cab, I’d definitely pay for it to have it again. The balance and length, along with the dark fruit and spice, were exceptional.

From my article in SCV Elite Magazine:

Knights Bridge Vault

Also a winery I had learned about from WineLA.com, Knights Bridge was one I wanted to visit. Happy to find them in Calistoga, in the historic Calistoga National Bank building, where we enjoyed conversing with Kerry Andrews all about Calistoga and all they have to offer in a small-town feel. We viewed the only wine vault (former bank vault) in Napa, enjoyed cheese and charcuterie while tasting through their exceptional wines: 2018 Knights Bridge Sauvignon Blanc, Fairview; 2015 Pont de Chevalier Chardonnay, Estate Vineyard; 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate Vineyard; 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Dr. Crane Vineyard and 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, To Kalon Vineyard. We enjoyed them all, especially the Cabs.

Book online: https://www.knightsbridgewinery.com/Visit-Us-Events/Private-Tastings-in-The-Vault

About (Excerpted From Facebook)

Knights Bridge was founded by a close circle of friends who celebrate a shared passion for wine and food, a love of farming and respect for nature.

The wines of Knights Bridge offer an opportunity to taste not only our unique estate wines, but also wines from some of California’s most prestigious vineyards. Knights Bridge searches California for exceptional sources of fruit from properties with a strong sense of place and the potential for producing extraordinary wines. Many of these celebrated properties have a long history of incredible vintages to their credit.

Founding Date: 2006

Estate Wines: Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc
Vineyard Designate Wines: Beckstoffer To Kalon Cabernet Sauvignon (Oakville), Dr. Crane Cabernet Sauvignon (St. Helena), Berisini Vineyards Chardonnay (Carneros), Alder Springs Chardonnay (Mendocino)

https://www.instagram.com/knightsbridgewinery/

https://www.knightsbridgewinery.com/

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

Francis Ford Coppola Winery Establishes Scholarship for Employees Pursuing Education at Sonoma State University

November 16, 2019 by evebushman

Sonoma County, CA (October 22, 2019) – The award-winning Francis Ford Coppola Winery is now offering full-tuition scholarships for employees interested in pursuing their education at Sonoma State University. The first beneficiaries, dubbed the “Coppola Winery Scholars,” began their studies during the 2019 fall semester and are already working towards their degrees.

“We wanted to partner with a local university to cover employees’ college education. Naturally, we reached out to our contacts at the Wine Business Institute in the School of Business and Economics at Sonoma State University,” said Corey Beck, The Family Coppola CEO and Chief of Winemaking. “We knew about the Wine Industry Scholars Program and Rodney Strong Pathways Program that the Wine Business Institute had spearheaded and tapped their expertise to help us implement the idea.”

“We are very excited about this new partnership with the Francis Ford Coppola Winery,” said Sonoma State President Judy K. Sakaki. ” We are also pleased that employers and professionals in the region look to Sonoma State University as the destination for their education.”.

Coppola Winery Scholars include Catalina Gonzalez and Gia Gagliardino. Catalina, the Rustic: Francis’s Favorites restaurant pastry chef, has been with the Francis Ford Coppola Winery for five years and will study psychology. Gia is a food and beverage supervisor and has been with the company for nearly four years. Both recipients are expected to complete their degrees the spring of 2023.

“The program is benefiting me so much. I don’t have to stress myself out on how I’m going to pay for school, and that gives me more time and energy to prioritize my classes. My parents and my sister are my main motivation to pursue this degree,” Catalina says.

“The Family Coppola is a wonderful company in that they recognize how important employees are to the growth and success of the organization,” said Gia Gagliardino, who is currently a senior in Business Administration with a focus on marketing and wine studies. “Through this scholarship opportunity, I know my company believes in me and my future. It’s motivating.”

About Wine Business Institute

The School of Business and Economics at Sonoma State is the first in the United States to offer an undergraduate degree (since 1998), an MBA (since 2008), and most recently an Executive MBA (since 2012) focused on the business of wine. The school’s Wine Business Institute is housed in the newly opened Wine Spectator Learning Center located in the heart of campus. For more information, go to http://sbe.sonoma.edu/winebiz

About Sonoma State University

With a student population of 9,200, Sonoma State is a regionally serving public university committed to educational access and excellence. Guided by our core values and driven by a commitment to the liberal arts and sciences, Sonoma State delivers high-quality education through innovative programs that leverage the economic, cultural and natural resources of the North Bay. See more news from SSU at http://news.sonoma.edu/.

About Francis Ford Coppola Winery

The Family Coppola encompasses all of the things Francis loves most — cinema, wine, food, resorts and adventure — and embraces quality, authenticity and pleasure as a backbone to each of these vibrant business endeavors. Anchored in Sonoma County, Francis Ford Coppola Winery, known for its superior level of quality and integrity, is, as Francis puts it, “a wine wonderland, a park of pleasure where people of all ages can enjoy all the best things in life: food, wine, music, dancing, games, swimming and performances of all types. A place to celebrate the love of life.” Visit FrancisFordCoppolaWinery.com to plan your next visit. Also, earn and redeem points through Coppola Rewards membership at CoppolaRewards.com or visit www.TheFamilyCoppola.com to learn more about other areas of the business including resorts, spirits and more.

Russian River Valley’s Prestigious Wine Growing Reputation Experiences a Growth Spurt

November 7, 2019 by evebushman

Santa Rosa, CA—The Russian River Valley makes another big stride in proving itself to be one of the world’s premiere wine growing regions. In the 2019 Sonoma County Harvest Fair Wine Competition, the top three Sweepstakes winners were all wines made with Russian River Valley grapes. All three of the wineries are also members of the Russian River Valley Winegrowers (RRVW).

“Those of us who live and work in the Russian River Valley know what a treasure we have in the soils and climate that produce some of the most outstanding wines in the world,” says Chris Crispo, President of the Russian River Valley Winegrowers. “It’s gratifying to see that work recognized.”

The Sonoma County Harvest Fair hosted 18 judges over the course of 2 days for a competitive tasting. In the end, the three wines chosen for the top honors are:

Sweepstakes Winning Specialty Wine

Balletto Vineyards & Winery

2013 Sparkling Brut Rose- Estate, Russian River Valley

Sweepstakes Winning White Wine

Russian River Vineyards

2018 Chardonnay- Petersen Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Sweepstakes Winning Red Wine

J Vineyards

2017 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley

“My panel had arguably some of the most amazing wines of the competition,” says wine journalist and Harvest Fair Wine Competition judge, Laura Ness. “We felt we had the makings of a sweepstakes-worthy chardonnay in that Russian River Vineyards Petersen Vineyard, and it proved to be an all-around palate pleaser. Russian River really showed its special stuff in this well-run and highly competitive contest, from a plethora of wonderful rosés to exquisite pinot noirs. Kudos to all the winemakers for a great effort on every level.”

The Russian River AVA was established in 1983 and is the second largest appellation in Sonoma County (Sonoma Coast is the first). The area is known for its cool, foggy nights and mornings, which is the perfect weather for cool climate varietals like pinot noir and chardonnay.

Just as a wine region like Burgundy is filled with villages, the Russian River Valley is made up of six smaller areas called “neighborhoods” that stretch from Sebastopol to Santa Rosa and from Forestville to Healdsburg. A new UC Davis study shows scientific proof that each neighborhood is made up of unique soils and terroir that exhibit specific characteristics in the wines resulting in unique textures and aromas for each area.

The Russian River Valley Winegrowers are also celebrating member winery, Gary Farrell for making the list of the top 100 international wineries according to Wine & Spirits magazine. The region is included in Wine Enthusiast magazine’s declaration of Sonoma County being the “Wine Region of the Year”, and all member wineries are currently celebrating Sonoma County Wine Month as declared by the Sonoma County Vintners.

About the Russian River Valley Winegrowers:
The Russian River Valley Winegrowers (RRVW) is a nonprofit marketing and educational organization dedicated to promoting the Russian River Valley as the premier region for growing cool climate grapes while producing wines that showcase the diversity of the AVA’s six neighborhoods. The region’s generations of farmers and winemakers are continuing a long legacy of producing distinctive wines of exceptional quality, authenticity, and integrity. The RRVW has more than 200 members including growers, wineries, and sponsors. The RRVW provides regular marketing, publicity and community relations support through consumer events that promote the Russian River Valley as one of the world’s premier winegrowing regions.

The 11th Annual STARS of Cabernet, Once Again at The Peninsula Beverly Hills, Wednesday, November 13th

October 30, 2019 by evebushman

LA’s #1 Cabernet Showcase – no other event features the breadth of quality Cabernet wines in such an exceptional tasting environment, with an intimate high-tier audience limited to 140 guests!! As expected, this event sells-out every year and raises money for T.J. MARTELL FOUNDATION and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

Cabernet is KING and The STARS of Cabernet embraces the continued refinement inside the Cabernet category! Wines from Napa Valley, Sonoma Country, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, France, Chile, and Washington will be on display with abundant tray-passed appetizers and culinary delights! The STARS are the wineries themselves, and whenever possible, the winery table is hosted by a winemaker, proprietor, and/or a winery executive. A “first hand” tasting experience like none-other.

Over 35 luxury brands will be pouring over 100 amazing wines (For each of the featured Cabernets, wines retail at $50 or more). This event features the option of enjoying a 5:30 PM “Insignia” dinner with the President of Joseph Phelps Vineyards, Clarice Turner plus VIP tasting status **or** A 6 PM VIP Ticket providing early access to the Grand Tasting and includes: (1) A Peninsula Buffet Dinner w/ Carving station, (2) an older vintage tasting during the VIP hour, (3) a limited collectable tasting of Dana Estate and Dominus Estate, AND (4) the full registry of over 100 luxury wines, both Cabernet and other celebrated efforts / varieties from all places of quality. Both the 5:30 Dinner and the 6:00 PM VIP tickets include a VIP GIFT BAG of assorted artisanal treasures from various sponsors, with this year’s bag sponsored by GELSON’S. The 7PM ticket includes unlimited tasting and Peninsula Tray-Passed Appetizers with a Pasta station. All attending guests are also welcome to stay for the 9pm after party – when the music comes up and out comes the dessert! Magic Castle Magician Zach Waldman (made infamous on The Howard Stern Show!) will be performing throughout the evening showing off his sleight of hand expertise.

THE STARS OF CABERNET 2019 INCLUDE:

Addendum, ZD Wines, Bernardus, Trujillo Wines, Bulgheroni Wine, Crown Point Vineyards, Chappellet, Almaviva, Joseph Phelps, Allegretto Winery, Jack Wines, Two Old Dogs, Beaulieu Vineyard, AXR, Clark Claudon, Michel Rolland, The Debate, V. Vineyards, Monteverro, Hawk & Horse Vineyards, Napanook, Frank Family Vineyards, Teachworth Napa, J. Bookwalter Wines, Palmaz Vineyards, Ehlers Estate Winery, Prime Solum, Seven Stones Winery, Relic, Duhig Wines, Hertelendy Vineyards, Marciano Estate, Davis Estates, Barnett Vineyards, Chateau Montelena, Yount Ridge Cellars, Freemark Abbey, and a special wine made for Gelson’s by Winemaker Julien Fayard. **A special pouring older vintages and from Dominus Estate, and Dana Estate are limited to the 6pm VIP ticket**

A robust and automated silent auction of collectables and large format wines will benefit The T.J. Martell Foundation, the music industry’s largest entity funding innovative medical research focused on finding cures for leukemia, cancer and AIDS, as well as sourcing/supporting early-stage research projects aimed at developing more effective clinical treatments for patients who otherwise cannot afford a panacea. Learn more at tjmartell.org.

Tickets will sell out and prices do increase as the event date approaches – buy your tickets now!

For information and ticket purchasing, please visit STARSofcabernet.com

About TJ MARTELL FOUNDATION:

The T.J. Martell Foundation is the music industry’s largest foundation that funds innovative medical research focused on finding cures for cancer. The Foundation sources and supports early-stage research projects aimed at developing more effective clinical treatments for patients which otherwise might not be funded. WineLA has raised over $550,000 in the past 10 years for TJ MARTELL and this is our largest effort of the year.

About wineLA:

wineLA has focused on improving Los Angeles wine culture through ongoing educational tastings, classes and experiences. Educating and edu-taining with precision, we invite and welcome the best of the wine world to Los Angeles to partake. Established in 1995, wineLA was the first of its kind and continues to innovate, fortifying a quality wine audience one class, one tasting, one experience at a time. We are a part of the Los Angeles lifestyle, the wine lifestyle, and celebrate the people and the place with passion.

For more information visit www.wineLA.com or call 310-451-7600

Celebrate Harvest at Wine Road’s 21st Annual Wine & Food Affair This November

October 2, 2019 by evebushman

HEALDSBURG, Calif., /PRNewswire/ — Wine Road, an association of wineries and lodgings in Northern Sonoma County, kicks off their annual event season with the 21^st Annual Wine & Food Affair. The event, featuring two full days of tantalizing food and wine pairings along the Wine Road, takes place November 2^nd and 3^rd from 11am to 4pm each day.

Throughout the weekend, guests will have the opportunity to visit more than 80 participating wineries stretching across Sonoma County’s Alexander, Dry Creek, and Russian River Valleys. Each participating winery offers a taste of gourmet cuisine prepared by a local culinary artist paired with the wine of their choice. Recipes from the event and events past can be found on the Wine Road’s online cookbook, so guests can replicate the pairings at home.

“Wine and Food Affair is our premier event, and this year we asked our wineries to take their wine and food pairings to the next level,” said Beth Costa, Executive Director of Wine Road. “We wanted the event to better showcase the bounty that Sonoma County has to offer, so each winery was required to partner with a local artisan, farmer or producer in some way to create their recipe. We’ve never asked this of our wineries before, so we’re excited to see – and taste – the results of these collaborations.”

Attendees have the option to purchase tickets for the weekend or Sunday only of the event, enjoying Sonoma County’s finest at their own pace. Advance tickets are on sale now online for the weekend ($95), Sunday only ($75), and Designated Driver ($35). Advance tickets must be purchased as no tickets are sold at the door for this event. Ticket sales end Monday, October 28^th.

Visitors can now add additional events to their weekend to extend their wine & food experience. A ticket to Wine & Food Affair is required to purchase tickets to these add on events, which include a Somm Series at Roth Estate Winery ($60) and Winemaker Breakfast at Kendal-Jackson Wine Estate ($20). You must have a ticket to Wine & Food Affair to purchase tickets to these add on events.

ABOUT WINE ROAD NORTHERN SONOMA COUNTY:
Wine Road is the best source for discovering Northern Sonoma County’s exceptional wine country, which is famous for its renowned wine producers and cuisine, scenic beauty, and wine country lifestyle.

NorCal’s Oakville Grocery Enhanced with New Features + Expanded Food & Wine Offerings

September 18, 2019 by evebushman

OAKVILLE, Calif. – Oakville Grocery, the general store that has been a gathering place for locals and tourists for nearly 140 years, has been enhanced since joining the Boisset Collection in January. Visitors to both Oakville and Healdsburg will now find an emphasis on local sustainable, organic and Biodynamic food offerings as well as an expanded wine selection that includes exclusive, highly allocated wines by the taste, glass or bottle. These new items, as well as the grocery’s signature favorites, can now be enjoyed on renovated patios during extended summer hours.

Photo credit: Scott Chebegia.

“We are so excited to bring new life into community landmarks in Napa Valley and Sonoma County,” said Jean-Charles Boisset, proprietor of Boisset Collection. “Oakville Grocery is a phenomenal destination where guests can spend a relaxing afternoon trying a selection of amazing wines; fresh, healthy and local cuisine; and fabulous craft beers!”

The historical legacy of the Oakville destination has been made more prominent through extensive signage throughout the property that tell the story of its founding role in Napa Valley. In addition, the property next door — 1881 Napa Wine History Museum & Tasting Salon — features tastings of wines from 13 sub-appellations of Napa Valley as well as an archive of wine relics open for complimentary visitation and has published its own history of the region.

A unique feature of both Oakville Grocery locations is that guests can taste some of the most sought-after wines from rotating producers that have included Opus One, Screaming Eagle and Kosta Browne by purchasing cards and using them in Napa Technology dispensers.

“Normally wine lovers have to wait on allocation lists for years to purchase these bottles,” said Ed Maass, Oakville Grocery Wine Program Manager. “We are thrilled that we can make these beautiful wines more accessible and offer them by the taste and glass at Oakville Grocery, and through our Oakville Wine Society.”

Throughout each store, the wine selections have been significantly expanded and diversified as well as organized by appellation. In the Oakville location guests can discover wines from nearly 300 Napa Valley vintners and in Healdsburg they can browse through an equally large selection of Sonoma County producers. The flagship location in Napa Valley also has two new spaces dedicated to wine: a “cave” where guests can sample the highest-end wines from the Napa Tech machines as well as a wine vault that guests can enter and make selections from, as if they’re perusing their own wine cellar at home. A wine vault is also planned for the Healdsburg location, which has a revamped and upgraded main floor wine section.

The robust and diverse wine offerings are now available through a unique wine club. The Oakville Grocery Wine Society offers wine enthusiasts the opportunity to continue their journey through the wine country of Napa Valley through quarterly shipments of wines, many of which are small lot and hard to find. Society members receive access to private tasting experiences as well as a 10% discount on reorders and store purchases. The society has four different levels: Embarcadero, with a three-bottle allocation averaging $225; Expedition, with a three-bottle allocation averaging $450; Quicksilver, with a 3- or 6-bottle allocation averaging $1,050 or $2,100; and Savant, which offers the selections of the most exclusive and hard-to-procure wines, and is available exclusively by invitation for the most discerning collectors.

As a community fixture in the hearts of Napa Valley and Healdsburg, Boisset welcomes chefs, friends, neighbors and visitors to come in to shop. Oakville Grocery is also committed to its community and invites artisans and purveyors to bring in their products for consideration for sale. A steadfast practitioner of Biodynamic and organic farming, through the new food selection at the groceries, Boisset is spreading its mission for people to “take a stand for the future of food” and carefully consider what they are putting in their bodies. As part of this ideal Boisset has improved and expanded the line of Oakville Grocery-branded proprietary offerings — such as vinegar, olive oil, preserves, tapenade, mustards, charcuterie and beer — while at the same time ensuring they derived from more local sources.

“Our motto is ‘Eat Local, Drink Local, Picnic Local.’ We want to sell products that are made as close to Oakville Grocery as possible,” said Oakville Grocery General Manager Barry Dinsmore, referencing both the Oakville and Healdsburg locations of the store. He estimated that 70% of products in the stores hail from California, with another 20% from the U.S. and the remaining 10% international.

One of the new food providers Oakville Grocery has partnered with is Ohm Coffee Roasters. The Napa Valley-based company led by former sommelier and wine marketing professional Derek Bromley is the exclusive coffee provider for both the Oakville and Healdsburg locations. The Oakville location now has a coffee machine from La Marzocco, the benchmark Italian brand, as a central feature of the upgraded coffee program.

In addition to new foods and wines, the Oakville location has a renovated patio with new furniture and umbrellas to better enable guests to take in views of some of Napa Valley’s most notable landmarks—the Mayacamas Mountains and the landmark To Kalon vineyard to the west and the valley’s highest point, Mt. St. Helena, to the north. Guests can soak up the atmosphere while enjoying sandwiches and salads from the deli cases inside; delicious pizza, burgers and sandwiches made in the wood-fired outdoor oven; or locally raised roasted chickens from the rotisserie, along with wine selected from the grocery or the new, adjacent 1881 Napa tasting room. The Healdsburg patio, which has 40 seats and is one of the only outdoor eating spaces near the Healdsburg Plaza, will also soon have an updated look.

1881 Napa derives its name from the history of Oakville Grocery, which was founded in 1874 as a general store by P.B. O’Neil and then transitioned into a community hub in 1881 under the auspices of Jim and Jennie McQuaid.

“None of us own 1881 Napa or Oakville Grocery. We are just guests in their history. These places will outlive us,” said Boisset.

More Information
In Oakville, Oakville Grocery is located at 7856 St. Helena Highway. Oakville Grocery is open from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday through September. The phone number is 707.944.8802, and the catering team can be contacted by emailing cateringnv@oakvillegrocery.com.

In Healdsburg, Oakville Grocery is located at 124 Matheson Street and is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday through September. The phone number is 707.433.3200, and the catering team can be contacted by emailing cateringhb@oakvillegrocery.com

About Boisset Collection
Boisset is a family-owned collection of historic and unique wineries and lifestyle destinations led by Jean-Charles Boisset and bound together by a common vision: authentic, terroir-driven wines in harmony with their history, their future and the land and people essential to their existence. With more than 25 historical and prestigious still and sparkling wineries in the world’s preeminent terroirs, including Burgundy, Beaujolais, Jura, the Rhône Valley, the south of France, and California’s Russian River Valley and the Napa Valley. Its California wineries include DeLoach Vineyards, Raymond Vineyards, Buena Vista Winery and JCB by Jean-Charles Boisset; its French properties feature Domaine de la Vougeraie, Jean-Claude Boisset, Bouchard Aîné et Fils, J. Moreau et Fils, Louis Bouillot, Henrie Maire, Fortant and Bonpas. Each house retains its unique history, identity and style, and all are united in the pursuit of fine wines expressive of their terroir. Wine is at the center of Boisset’s mission, and is complemented by spirits, beer, cider, gourmet foods and luxury goods, both of its own design and from partnerships with historic companies such as Baccarat, Lalique, St. Louis, Riedel, Christofle, and Bernardaud. To learn more about the Boisset Collection, please visit www.boissetcollection.com.

Tasting a Classic: Rodney Strong Vineyards

August 30, 2019 by evebushman

Do you know anything about Rodney Strong Vineyards? If you do recognize the name, as most would for the 50+ year-old Sonoma County winery, forgetaboutit for just a few more minutes while you read what I learned about their iconic label, as well as newer labels we tasted from: Symmetry Collection Red Meritage, Alexander Valley; Alexander’s Crown Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley; and Rowen Red Wine Blend, Cooley Ranch, Sonoma County; presented by Director of Winemaking Justin Seidenfeld and Director of Communications Christopher O’Gorman during a spectacular paired wine luncheon at Cafe Del Rey.

(If your appetite can’t bear waiting…see photos of the wine and winemaker Justin Seidenfeld click here, if you are after the food prepared by Sous Chef Jackie Ramsey that’s all here. I suggest a gander at both.)

What We Learned

The winery opened in 1959 and was the 13^th bonded winery in Sonoma County. Beginning with producing an annual 30,000 cases they now make 860,000 cases.

Tom Klein and family purchased Rodney Strong in 1989.

Rodney “Rod” Strong was a former dancer turned winemaker. He was a leader in pushing Sonoma County wines and is considered a “pioneer in the industry”.

Seidenfeld, now on his 15^th vintage for Rodney Strong, uses the vineyards and science to make great wines, as he “loves to make people happy.” He looks forward to taking Rodney Strong into the future.

Rodney Strong is “solar powered, certified sustainable, practice Fish Friendly Farming and Sonoma County’s first carbon neutral winery.”

The Menu and Wine Pairing – aromas and flavors separated by ;

Welcome: 2018 Rose of Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Estate Sonoma County.

Floral, pink grapefruit, fruit cocktail, wet pebbles, some mild and pleasant salinity; fresh fruit, pink lemonade, mild acid and some of the same fruit as found on the nose. Rodney Strong lovers will note a new white label, very artistic, to catch the eye. This is the third best-selling Rose over $15 in the U.S.

Starter: 2018 Sauvignon Blanc, Charlotte’s Home, Estate Sonoma County.

Fresh pear, white peach, with notes that reminded me of both a sandy beach and fresh mown grass; fresh citrus, low acid, balanced and a nice long finish. The “10% barrel fermented in French oak with completed malolactic” gave a nice creaminess to the wine, not what I expect from the usual highly acidic Sauvignon Blancs, so it was very welcoming. Nicely priced at about $17 and a new white label to catch the eye as well.

Pairing: Oyster, tuna tartar, preserved lemon aioli and cucumber mignonette. The oyster was to die for, and the slight creaminess in the wine was the perfect balance.

First Course: 2016 Chalk Hill Estate Vineyards Chardonnay.

Unsalted butter, toast, kiwi, earth and oak; butter again, hay, Meyer lemon. The 12 months in French Oak left its lovely buttery mark on this classic Rodney Strong label.

Pairing: Scallops, coconut sunchoke, pureed grilled peach, pea coulis, fried leeks. I noted that the scallops, amazing on their own, were more buttery with the Chard.

Second Course: 2016 Russian River Valley Estate Vineyards Pinot Noir.

Crushed cherries, stems, bramble, rose petal and stewed red fruit; richly layered, both peppery and velvety with bright red fruit.

Pairing: Chicken, roulade prosciutto spinach, sundried tomato, charred shallot and red wine jus. The chef had used a Pinot Noir in the red wine sauce that of course complemented the wine very well.

Third Course (two wines): 2015 Symmetry Red Meritage, Alexander Valley and MY WINE OF THE WEEK FOR SURE.

Blue to black fruit, cracked black pepper, incense and earth; great balance of fruit and spice, earthy, dark and brooding with an incredible length. This blend, 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 8% Petit Verdot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec was great right now in my opinion. It came from five different Alexander Valley Vineyards and their estate on the hills north of Lake Sonoma: Cooley Ranch.

SECOND WINE: 2015 Alexander’s Crown, Cabernet Sauvignon, Single Vineyard, Sonoma County.

Blueberry, dark chocolate, dust and cigar; balanced mouthfeel, peppery, dark fruit, creamy, toasted oak. This was also an exceptional wine.

Pairing: Grilled lamb, Romesco, risotto, pickled ramp and pea mint gremolata. I chewed that bone until it was bare – so very good only made better by the Symmetry.

Final Course:

2015 Rowen, Red Wine, Sonoma County, Cooley Ranch.

Blackberry, blueberry, lots of plum, milk chocolate, rich wet soil; peppery, dry, big, juicy fruit and tannins to give it an incredibly long finish. This wine had been decanted, so now ready to drink. 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Malbec, 17% Syrah and 2% Viognier. All Cooley Ranch – in my opinion, you should keep your eye on wines from this area.

Pairing: What a delight of hard-to-get award-winning cheeses we were presented with along with toasted nuts and fresh fruit. We thought we were done. Then came a chilled chocolate truffle served alongside a little jar of white creamy pudding with a rim of red fruit. Then we thought we were done again, only to be handed a small box containing a tart…for the road.

All of the wines I would definitely buy, the last three I will look for on wine lists and snatch up if I’m lucky enough to find. (Or you could join the wine club to get yours.) The restaurant I will definitely return to, the food is incredible and matched only by the service and incredible views of boats in the Marina.

https://www.rodneystrong.com/

https://www.rowenwinecompany.com/

https://cafedelreymarina.com/

Charlie Palmer and Clay Mauritson Take On Down Syndrome with their 9th Annual Project Zin

July 28, 2019 by evebushman

Healdsburg, Calif.–Chef Charlie Palmer and winemaker Clay Mauritson announce the ninth annual Project Zin event, taking place Friday, August 16-Saturday, August 17 at Hotel Healdsburg. This do-good wine weekend offers a series of dining and educational events hosted by Chef Palmer, Clay Mauritson and some of the industry’s most elite winemakers. Saturday evening’s preeminent wine event, Project Zin gathers some of the most sought after Zinfandels and Sonoma County chefs with all proceeds benefiting the Down Syndrome Association North Bay. Hotel packages and a la carte tickets are now on sale.

Saturday evening’s Project Zin event lines up 21 of the most highly acclaimed Zinfandel wines from Northern California. The number 21 is significant: in most cases of Down Syndrome there is an extra copy of chromosome 21, which changes the body and brain’s normal development. Clay and Carrie Mauritson’s ten-year old son Brady was diagnosed with Down Syndrome at the age of 2 ½, which led the Mauritson family to seek support from friends, family, and community organizations, including the Down Syndrome Association, North Bay (DSANB). In addition to DSANB, Clay solicited the aid of his close friend and winemaking partner, Chef Charlie Palmer, and Project Zin was born. In the years since Project Zin’s inception, the Sonoma County winemaking and culinary community has come together to raise over $750,000 for DSANB, providing much needed funds for research and support for individuals and families affected by Down Syndrome. A letter from Clay and Carrie Mauritson highlighting their personal challenges with Down Syndrome and the subsequent support they received from the DSANB can be found here.

Chef & Winemaker Talent

Now in its ninth year, the local and global winemaker and chef community comes out in droves to support a fellow winemaking family, as well as DSANB, including such prolific wineries as Robert Biale Vineyards, Carlisle Winery & Vineyards Ridge Vineyards, Williams Selyem, Seghesio Family Vineyards, and acclaimed wine country restaurants Dry Creek Kitchen, Valette, and SingleThread Farm – Restaurant – Inn, and more. A full list of wineries and restaurants can be found here: http://projectzin.org/talent/.

Events

Limited availability, for package guests only.

Rockpile Vineyard Lunch with Clay Mauritson (Mauritson Winery), Ian Blackburn (Beekeeper Cellars) and Andy Robinson (Seghesio Family Vineyards).

Guests will be picked up from Hotel Healdsburg and will wind their way to the top of the historic Rockpile Ridge Vineyard. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the heart of the vineyard while sipping a glass of Rosé with Clay, Ian and Andy. The afternoon will feature lunch served alongside a vertical of Rockpile Zinfandels. Your afternoon will conclude with a stop at Mauritson Winery where guests can enjoy coffee and a tour of the production facility. This is a truly fantastic experience to spend an afternoon filled with spectacular wine, delicious food and great company.

Saturday, August 17 | 11 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Rockpile Ridge Vineyard

Limerick Lane Vineyard Lunch with Jake Bilbro (Limerick Lane), Mike Officer (Carlisle Winery) and Chris Cottrell (Bedrock Wine Company)).

Guests will be escorted from Hotel Healdsburg to Limerick Lane located in the far northeastern corner of the Russian River, just south of Healdsburg. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the heart of the vineyard while sipping a glass of Rosé with Jake, Mike and Chris. The afternoon will feature lunch served alongside a vertical of Rockpile Zinfandels. Your afternoon will end with a stop at Mauritson Winery where guests can enjoy coffee and a tour of the production facility.

Saturday, August 17 | 11 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Limerick Lane Vineyard

Project Zin

Saturday evening’s Project Zin event is our preeminent food and wine event where guests will sample 21 of the most sought-after Zinfandels paired with tastings from Chef Palmer, Dry Creek Kitchen as well as top Sonoma County chefs.

The evening includes an inspiring Live Auction with Daryl Groom and Silent Auction where guests will have the chance to obtain rare, once-in-a-lifetime wine, food lots and travel packages. All proceeds go to Down Syndrome Association North Bay.

Saturday, August 17 | 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. | Hotel Healdsburg | $200 per person

Tickets & Hotel Packages
Tickets and hotel packages go on sale on June 12 at 11 am PST and can be purchased online at http://projectzin.org/tickets/. Tickets and package pricing are listed below.

A la carte tickets

Includes admission to event, unlimited tasting of Zinfandels and culinary creations

$200 (excludes taxes/fees)

Purchase ticket >

Rockpile Vineyard Lunch: $150

Limerick Lane Vineyard Lunch: $150

Project Zin Packages

All packages include two-night accommodations for two in a luxurious Hotel Healdsburg, h2hotel or Harmon Guest House room, daily gourmet breakfast and valet parking, VIP check-in to all events, welcome wine reception with Clay & Carrie Mauritson on Friday, August 16 at Hotel Healdsburg, two tickets to Saturday Vineyard Lunch of Choice, and two tickets to Project Zin.

Project Zin Hotel Healdsburg Package

Two-night accommodations for two in a Hotel Healdsburg Premier King Room

Package Price: $2,388.83 (15 packages available)

Project Zin H2hotel Package

Two-night accommodations for two in a h2hotel Eco-King Room

Package Price: $2,156.83 (5 packages available)

Project Zin Harmon Guest House Package

Two-night accommodations for two in a Harmon Guest House King Room

Package Price: $2,156.83 (5 packages available)

Vintage Eve Circa 6/2016: Can’t Get Enough…STARS of California Part One

July 23, 2019 by evebushman

This time wine-expectant palates would sample over 100 wines from 40 wineries – and grow a knowledge of our varied California terroir – courtesy Ian Blackburn of WineLA.com in yet another “STARS” event. As you should’ve guessed, it was Stars of California, once again at The Peninsula Beverly Hills.

And, as some of these participants (listed below) were familiar to me from other tasting events in the last six months, which I have written about, this tasting I only tasted new vintages from those same sources, and a few wineries I was unfamiliar with. My likes and brief tasting notes are below under “Pour List” in italics. (And for my pals with a short attention span, of course I created a slideshow of the event.

The Pour List at Press Time:

ADOBE ROAD
Redline Cabernet Blend, Sonoma County 2012
Chardonnay, Bacigalupi Vineyard, Russian River Valley 2014
Cabernet Franc, Bavarian Lion Vineyard, Knights Valley 2014
Cabernet Sauvignon, Beckstoffer Georges the III, Napa Valley 2012

ALMA ROSA
Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2013
‘Clone 667’ Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2013
Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County 2014
Chardonnay, El Jabali Vineyard 2014

Always a pleasure to taste with winemaker Richard Sanford. His Pinot Noirs are continually well done, and along with Clos Pepe, really set the bar nice and high for Pinot in Sta. Rita Hills. This time I enjoyed the 2013 Pinot Noir and a 2014 Pinot Gris.

ANCIENT PEAKS WINERY
Sauvignon Blanc, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2014
Cabernet Sauvignon, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2014
Merlot, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2013
Renegade, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2013
Oyster Ridge, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2013
Loved the lemon and white peach in this Sauv Blanc, the Oyster Ridge Cab blend, the Renegade Syrah and the big, dry yet balanced 2013 Zin they also poured.

ARCHIUM CELLARS
Rose of Grenache 2015 – Watch Hill Vineyard, Los Alamos
“Dissident” GSM, Stolpman and Watch Hill Vineyards, Santa Barbara 2014
“Faction” Syrah, Stolpman Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley, Ballard Canyon 2014
“Haven” Grenache, Stolpman Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley, Ballard Canyon 2014

Every darn wine in this line-up made me smile. The Grenache was one I noted as an easy drinker, which translates to Drink Now.

BEEKEEPER CELLARS
Zinfandel, Madrone Spring Vineyard, Rockpile 2013
Zinfandel, Montecillo Vineyard, Sonoma Valley 2014

This is Ian’s wine, I have it every time, don’t miss it when you see it.

BERNARDUS WINERY
Pinot Noir, Pisoni Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 2013
Pinot Noir, Rosella’s Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 2013
Pinot Noir, Gary’s Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 2013
Rose of Pinot Noir SLH 2014

If you are ever in Carmel Valley, visit this winery.

BOUGETZ CELLARS
Sauvignon Blanc, Rutherford 2014
Pinot Noir, Catie’s Corner Vineyard 2014
Jovana Merlot/Cabernet Franc 2013
Cabernet Sauvignon, Amaryllis Spring Mountain District 2012

CA’ DEL GREVINO
Element Pinot Noir, Santa Maria 2012
Element Chardonnay, Santa Maria 2012
Pinot Noir, Santa Maria 2013
Riesling, Santa Maria 2013

CELLARS 33
Grenache Blanc 2015
Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2013
Pinot Noir, Gloria Vineyard 2013
Pinot Noir, Keefer Ranch 2013

COLE BAILEY
“Sesquipedalian” Cabernet Sauvignon, Cole Bailey Vineyards, Redwood Valley , Mendocino 2007
“Otters Road Trip Red, Cole Bailey Vineyards, Redwood Valley, Mendocino County NV

COQUELICOT ESTATE
Sauvignon Blanc, Coquelicot Estate Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley 2015
Riesling, , Santa Ynez Valley 2015
‘Estate Mon Amour’ Bordeaux Blend, Santa Ynez Valley 2011
‘Estate Sixer’ (94% Syrah, 6% Viognier), Santa Ynez Valley 2012

New vintages for me to try, that I thoroughly enjoyed, included the Mon Amour and Sixer. And they are all organic wines if that’s your preference.

CORDON
“L’Inox” Sauvignon Blanc, Lucas & Lewellen and Star Lane Vineyards, Happy Canyon 2015
“Les Jumeaux” Pinot Noir, Theresa Noell and John Sebastiano Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills 2014

DUTTON ESTATE
‘Karmen Isabella’ Pinot Noir, Russian River, Sonoma 2013
‘Kyndalls Reserve’ Chardonnay, Russian River, Sonoma 2013
‘Kylie’s Cuvee’ Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River, Sonoma 2015

FATHERS & DAUGHTERS CELLARS
Pinot Noir (Ella’s Reserve), Ferrington 2012
Pinot Noir (Ella’s Reserve), Ferrington 2013
Sauvignon Blanc, Ferrington 2014
Chardonnay, Ferrington 2014

FOXEN
Chenin Blanc, Ernesto Wickenden Vineyard 2014
Chardonnay, Bien Nacido Block UU 2014
Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley 2014
Pinot Noir, John Sebastiano Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills 2013

Always a favorite.

GALATEA EFFECT
Genception of Giants California Super Syrah 2011
Laminar Flow Pinot Noir 2013
Conoscenti Syrah 2011
Conoscenti Pinot Noir 2013
Conoscenti Rose’ 2013

This was a fun discovery, especially chatting with devoted CA winemaker that lives in AZ, Joel Clapick. My favorites were the Giants’ blend and the Rose.

GARDEN CREEK
Tesserae, Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

GRAEF WINE
Viognier, Casey Flat Ranch, Capay Valley 2015
Chardonnay, Bell Vineyard, Yountville, Napa County 2013
Syrah, Remembrance Vineyard, Lake County 2012

GROTH VINEYARDS & WINERY
Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley 2014
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville Napa Valley 2012
Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville Napa Valley 2012
Hillview Chardonnay, Napa Valley 2014

HAHN FAMILY
‘SLH’ Chardonnay, St. Lucia Highlands 2014
‘SLH’ Pinot Noir, St. Lucia Highlands 2014
Pinot Noir, Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard 2013
Pinot Noir, Lucienne Smith Vineyard 2013

Had the SLH (new label designation for Santa Lucia Highlands, much like Ballard Canyon’s new embossed bottle – both designed to help separate AVAs from the pack) Pinot Noir in my American Wine Cert class (yes I passed) and became an instant fan. This time I tried the Lucienne label and rejoiced in loving both that were shared. I found the Lone Oak slightly more delicate than the more traditional Smith vineyard.

HAWK AND HORSE
Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills, Lake County 2011
‘Block Three’ (95% Cab & 5% Petit Verdot), Red Hills, Lake County 2011
‘Latigo’ Cabernet Sauvignon fortified Port style Dessert Wine, Red Hills, Lake County 2011

I was introduced to Hawk and Horse when they sent me a “diamond” along with wines to sample. The marketing (diamond) caught my attention, as did the wines I was sent for review. I was happy to try the 2011 Cab and the Block Three red blend. These wines, both 2011 vintages, were just released. Love a wine that has spent a little more time in barrel and oak to suit the winemaker’s desired results.

HOYT FAMILY
Chardonnay, Santa Barbara 2014
Pinot Grigio, California 2013
Cabernet, Paso Robles 2012
Petite Sirah, Paso Robles 2012

Originally tasting Hoyt in a now defunct wine tasting room in Malibu, I was happy to see them at Ian’s event. Loved the Cab, Petite Sirah and a 2011 Tempranillo – all draped in medals.

L’AVENTURE WINERY
‘Optimus Estate’ Red Blend, Paso Robles 2013
Côte à Côte, Paso Robles 2013
Estate Cuvée, Paso Robles 2013

Always a treat when winemaker Stephan Asseo and/or L’Aventure comes out to any event. None of his wines ever disappoint my Rhône-driven palate. And this time, the Estate Cuvee made me pause; a smoky wine with rapturous balance. As I noticed every other taster at his table fail to pour out, I was so jealous to have to be working.

Read Part 2 here next week! I will begin with the rest of this list and finish with what we tasted from the Paso Robles Cab Collective.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), 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.

Perlis Picks: Elevating Zinfandel

June 29, 2019 by Michael Perlis

Admittedly, the last few months have been difficult for my family and me. Stuff happens to all of us so the details aren’t necessary for this article, but getting the invitation to Ian Blackburn’s WineLA’s annual Elevating Zinfandel event was like a light at the end of the tunnel.

Wine people are good people and I often feel that Zinfandel people tend to be the best people of all. Tasting through a multitude of versions of my oft-favorite varietal amidst a great group of attendees and winery participants really helped to remind me of what makes Zinfandel special to me. I was determined to relax and enjoy.

So, I took my time. I didn’t try everything, but of what I did, these were the standouts for me. (If you want to see all the wines poured, here is the link to Eve’s article: http://evewine101.com/2019/06/14/eve-gets-her-zinfandel-on-at-elevating-zin-2019/)

My first stop was Mauritson Wines where Clay Mauritson was pouring a few of his Rockpile Zinfandels (2016 Rockpile Ridge Vineyard, 2017 Rockpile Ridge Vineyard and 2017 Jack’s Cabin Vineyard), along with one 2017 designated as Dry Creek Valley. The DCV was delicious, but I was there for the Rockpiles. I’ve written before how special a place I believe the Rockpile AVA to be, and nobody showcases the region better than Mauritson. And not rushing through the tasting was really a good idea. While Clay and I reminisced about our visit to Mauritson last year and chatted about this year’s upcoming Project Zin event, the wine had a little more time to develop in the glass. The wine was showing even more of that Rockpile richness and complexity.

Pouring next to Mauritson was WineLA’s Ian Blackburn himself providing tastes of his own Beekeeper Cellars Zinfandel. This is definitely not a vanity project for Ian. His wines are serious versions of this beloved grape. My favorite here was the 2016 Secret Stones from Rockpile, but the 2016 Monticello was no slouch either.

Besides the two wineries mentioned above, Sonoma County was very well represented at this tasting. As it should be; the area is definitely one of the top destinations for Karen and me. Wineries I especially enjoyed were:

Kreck – lighter in color as can often be the case with 100% Zinfandels, neither wine poured was light in flavor. Loved both the 2016 Teldeschi Vineyard and 2016 Del Barba Vineyard.

Martinelli Winery – this Russian River Valley legendary winery was somewhat of an eye-opener for me. I’ve always enjoyed their wines, but in the past the alcohol heat was just a little apparent. Not these 2016s. All three wines being poured were delicious and very “gulpable” and the Vigneto di Evo bottling is a veritable steal at its price point.

Portalupi Winery – this was a new winery to me. They actually have been around since 2002, specializing in Italian varietals. Fortunately, they also make Zinfandel, from the famed Dolinsek Ranch in the Russian River Valley. They were pouring their regular and reserve bottlings from 2016 and 2017, with the 2017 Reserve a solid candidate for my wine of the day.

Williams Selyem – known for Pinot Noir, this winery also makes a couple of excellent Zinfandels. My favorite was the 2017 Papera Vineyard, a heritage site that Karen and I had the pleasure of visiting a few years back.

Zialena – we also visited this winery not too long ago in the Alexander Valley. They were pouring their 2016 Estate and 2015 Estate Reserve bottlings and both were delicious.

Napa Valley, while known mainly for its Cabernet Sauvignon (for some reason), has some very good Zinfandel producers that sometimes fly under the radar.

Brown Estate – a true classic winery that makes you wonder why you don’t hear more about Napa Zin. They were pouring four of them today; my favorites were the 2017 Chiles Valley and Rosemary’s Block bottlings.

Robert Biale Vineyards – a winery that excels in Petite Sirah also, but today was about their 2017 Zinfandel. They make several Zins; the two being poured were the famed Black Chicken and the Stagecoach, both wonderful examples of what can come from this area.

Finally, it might not be considered a real Zinfandel event without Turley Wine Cellars. Whitney Turley, one of the four Turley sisters represented by the stars on Turley’s corks and one of two working at Turley Wine Cellars (along with her sister Christina), was pouring four 2017 Zins. Contrary to the other wineries, these were from neither Napa nor Sonoma. The Juvenile is possibly the best deal out there for Zinfandel [or maybe anything]. The other three single-vineyard wines all had special meaning to me: Kirschenmann Vineyard in Lodi [owned by Turley Director of Winemaking Tegan Passalacqua], Buck Cobb Vineyard in Amador County [from the old Karly winery] and the Dusi Vineyard in Paso Robles [my consistently favorite Turley wine]. It should go without saying that they were all delicious; we’re talking Turley, after all.

Wrapping up the afternoon tasting, I reflected on my very purposeful decision to not rush through and attempt to taste everything but to try to really appreciate the moment, the wines, and winery people pouring them. I highly recommend this approach. Thank you to Ian Blackburn and the entire staff of WineLA for putting on another great event.

Michael Perlis has been pursuing his passion for wine for more than 25 years. He has had the good fortune of having numerous mentors to show him the way, as well as a wonderful wife who encourages him and shares his interest. After a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting wineries and vineyards, and tasting as much wine as he possibly could, he had the amazing luck to meet Eve Bushman. Now, as Contributing Editor for Eve’s Wine 101, he does his best to bring as much information as possible about wine to Eve’s Wine 101 faithful readers. Michael is also Vice President of Eve Bushman Consulting (fka Eve’s Wine 101 Consulting) http://evebushmanconsulting.com/ and President of MCP Financial. Michael can be contacted at michaelthezinfan@aol.com or michael@evebushmanconsulting.com