Vintage Eve: My Favorite Wines and Cocktails from 2016

December 24, 2019 by evebushman

In writing wine and spirit reviews, which include comprehensive tasting notes on appearance, aroma, flavor and sometimes a score, it would be remiss for me not to explain that even when I’m not working on an article I will still employ some of these same methods when drinking wine for pleasure with friends or at a large commercial tasting event. Those wines, sans actual notes, are the ones I want to share today.

2016 Cocktails on the Roof.

Why? Because sometimes we make our buying choices dependent on numerical scores from critics. While that is fine, especially if you have found a critic that has a similar palate as yours (you agree with his scores) it also reduces the time spent trying wines on your own, and finding them not to be enjoyable, which can be costly.

Some pals have also reached out to me, believing they will like what I like, and have asked me to share my favorites. So this article is for them as well. (Please keep in mind these are wines and cocktails I enjoyed in 2016 alone.)

And now, without further adieu:

Remarkable vintage years I did note – so it will be easier if you want to duplicate the experience – I found via my Facebook photographs: 1863 Reserva Velha Barbeito Bual Madeira, 2003 Tramin Cerveny (Czech dessert wine), 2000 Don Melchor Puente Alto Cabernet Sauvignon, 2003 Nicolas Feuillatte Palmes d’Or Brut Champagne, 2004 Robert Mondavi Vine Hill Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012 Chateau de la Gardine Chateauneuf du Pape, 2014 Turley from Howell Mountain, Pesenti Vineyard and Dogtown Vineyard, 2003 Joseph Phelps Insignia and a 2006 Backus, 2015 Trombetta Chardonnay, 2015 J. Lohr White Riesling, 2005 Robert Mondavi Stags Leap Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013 Beckmen Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon and their 2013 Cuvee Le Bec, 2007 Kosta Browne 4-Barrel Pinot Noir, 2013 Beekeeper Zinfandel Rockpile Appellation, 2005 Chateau Canon, 2013 Hearst Pergola Petite Sirah, 2014 Poet’s Leap Riesling, 2012 Concrete Old Vine Zinfandel, 2012 Kynsi Pinot Noir, 2012 Colome Estate Malbec, 2012 Dilecta Unorthodox, 2013 Klinker Brick Old Vine Zinfandel, 2013 Summers Andriana’s Cuvee Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2011 and 2013 Cabernet Franc all from Crocker and Starr.

In general, wines that I enjoyed but didn’t note the various vintage years were from Backus, Insignia, Le Mistral, Syrah, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon (all from Joseph Phelps club membership), Hall Cabernet Sauvignon, every vintage of Phifer Pavitt DateNight Cabernet Sauvignon, various Del Dotto wines, all wines from Stolpman Vineyards, Silver Oak, Carlisle Mourvedre, Pure Cru wines by Mitch Cosentino, non vintage Champagne Jacquart, Pulchella Zinfandel, Stillman Petite Sirah, Regusci Patriarch, Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon, Cakebread Cellars Pinot Noir, Larner Vineyard, Ferrari Trento, Derby Wine Estates, Oso Libre, Frick, Mystic Hills, Calcareous, Workman Ayer Defacto Red Rhone blend, Jaffurs, Epoch Estate, Whalebone, Casa Dumetz, Zaca Mesa, Tercero, Four Brix, Central Coast Group Project (CCGP), Dry Creek Vineyard Zinfandel, Cellardoor Winery Blueberry wine, wines that my local winemakers serve up every year at Sunset in the Vineyard…

Cocktails: Everything I could get my hands on at Cocktails on the Roof, which included these three award winners: Bourbon Bramble from Newhall Refinery, Trader Vics inspired Mai Tai at Salt Creek Grille Valencia and the Manhattan from Olive Terrace Bar and Grill. I also enjoyed: the Manhattan made by 12 Bottle Bar authors Lesley and David Solmonson, Frozen Margaritas, single barrel tequila and Horchata at solita, Bloody Mary at Egg Plantation, Perfect Rob Roy from The Social, Cucumber Soju Cocktail served up by Xevichez Sushi Bar, Black Manhattan at Bacari PDR, a Moscow Mule I made with Cherry Ginger Beer and a Negroni with St George Gin, Bowen’s Whiskey, Black Momma Vodka, whatever I get to taste with the L.A. Scotch Club and a 10 year old Rip Van Winkle Bourbon I nabbed from a pal.

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.

Vintage Eve Circa 11/2016: Sunset in the Vineyard is the only event that…

October 22, 2019 by evebushman

…I know about 99% of the vendors and almost the same percentage of the guests as it’s a local event put on by one of my favorite non-profits: Assistance League Santa Clarita. There are two members that live on my street, and many more members and supporters in my neighborhood!

Shannon Mee, Eve, Simon Mee.

This was what I was quoted for saying about the event in a recent Magazine of Santa Clarita Magazine article:

Sunset in the Vineyard is the only event that represents the SCV Vintners and Growers Association. These are winemakers and grape growers that are based in the Santa Clarita Valley; often friends, assisting each other in harvest every year and tasting each other’s efforts along the way – from vine to bottle.

What also makes the event unique, besides being the first of its kind in our valley held in a private two-home winery estate, it is an opportunity for fledgling winemakers to learn more about the craft. Not all wine events have the winemaker available to attend – in this event I can only think of a couple of tables that may send an educated wine representative if the winemaker is unavailable. The point is, whoever is pouring you a sample has had a hand-on experience with that wine.

For me personally, it was a fine day many years ago when I discovered the vineyard at the Carpenters’ home. I learned that there were many home winemakers in our valley, working together, and thought how cool it would be to get some kind of way to visit them all in one day. I envisioned a tour bus. The Carpenters and their winemaking friends, dreamed of something much more long lasting. And, not to forget, to the benefit of the children of the Santa Clarita Valley served by the Assistance League.

If that’s not enough only Sunset in the Vineyard guests get a chance to taste the same grapes from the same vineyard – Bouquet Vineyard tended to by local winemaker Danny Mascari – but the only difference will be which artisan winemaker crafted the wine.

See the action, and some of my favorite wines of the day, in just two minutes here in this YouTube slide show.

The Vino and Brewsky

Compa Vineyards, Pulchella Winery, Alonso Family Vineyards, Bobcat Red and Due Nasi, Bouquet Vineyard, Capuano Winery, Copperhill Brewery, CPB Winery, Gagnon Cellars, Golden Star Vineyards, Hoi Polloi Winery, Hundred Vines, Mystic Hills Vineyard, Nuggucciet Cellars, Pagter Brothers, Pulchella Winery, Reyes Winery, Stephen Hemmert Wines, VNTBC Nanno Brewery and Whistling Vineyard.

The Artisan Foods

This year some of the delectable food was prepared by The Culinary Arts students and Instructors at College of the Canyon’s Institute for Culinary Education: grilled veggies, flatbread pizza, stuffed grape leaves, and more. Returning was local favorite DeRobertis Family Artisan Cheeses, wowing the crowd with their latest flavorful cow and goat cheeses, and the Speakeasy Bakery with several freshly baked breads and tapenade dipping sauce. New to the scene, and parked in the front driveway, was the vintage Sweet Beams Ice Cream truck. And the cookies…something the Assistance League is known for, several sweet volunteers worked the crowd armed with baskets full of delectable cookies.

Seen Amongst the Artisans

Joel and Judy Cox, Howard Pointer, Marjanne Priest, Chris and Jeannie Carpenter, Steve and Elizabeth Hopp, Don and Cheryl Dellepiane, Roman Weiser and Tina, Judy Penman, Lee Williams, Alesia Humphies, Steve Dole, Steve Frye, Scott Pagter, Doug Minnick, Simon and Shannon Mee, Nina and Danny Mascari, DeRobertis, Andrew Kevin Friend and Jessica Javier, Arnold Bryant and Alexander Hafizi, Margo Berg, Robert and Annie Schwartz, Susan Hayward, Cheryl Phillips, Marlee Lauffer, Steve and Rose Chegwin, Colleen and Matt Carpenter, Stephen Hemmert and Nicole Nelms St Julien, Rae and Gil Gagnon, Dave and Chris Tanner, Josh Premako, Chef Michelle Razzano Bustillos, Chef Cindy Schwanke, Lilia Denson Murillo, Rob and Ann Piscitello, Betty Rabin Fung, Amy Daniels, Gail Pinsker, John and Debra Heys, Jeff Hacker, Randy and Gail Winter, Julie and Steve Sturgeon, Bruce Fortine, Betty and Lucas Herme, Melanie Dubing Meyer and Jeff Meyer, Jim and Monica McClafferty, Pam Ingram, Sandi Naba, Robb and Rebecca Bacon, Leila Rosenberger, Janice Murray, Scott Ervin, Todd Wilson, Ken and Patrice Rifkind, Elizabeth Teagle, Bobbi Welton, Nate Hasper, Megan and Steve Lemley, Russ and Nancy Briley, Juan Alonso, Doris Zimmer, Doron and Joyce Carson, Steve and Elizabeth Hopp, Maureen and Derrick McKaughan, Larry McClements, Lori Rivas, Danise Davis, Carole Lenoir, Cheryl Wilson Daniel, Jennifer Haberer and Larry Mazzeo and -Dole Humphries kept this crowd happy with live music.

About Assistance League (AKA what your ticket price does for our community)

Assistance League Santa Clarita organized in 1989 by local women, was chartered in 1993 and has grown to 174 members and 51 Assisteens®. A chapter of National Assistance League, it is a nonprofit, nonpolitical, nonsectarian and IRS 501(c)(3) service organization. It is also a 100 percent volunteer-driven organization. All funds raised from Sunset in the Vineyard benefit Assistance League programs exclusively in the Santa Clarita Valley such as Operation School Bell®, which clothed more than 2,500 children in the SCV this year.

Join Assistance League® Santa Clarita for their 11th Annual Sunset in the Vineyard

October 17, 2018 by evebushman

The 11^th Annual Sunset in the Vineyard fundraiser will be held on Sunday, November 4 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the beautiful private Compa Vineyard in Newhall, and the homes of Jeannie, Chris and Tim Carpenter. The member/volunteers of Assistance League Santa Clarita are looking forward to welcoming the community to this lovely afternoon event.

Over 20 local vintners and brewers will be pouring their wines and beers for the enjoyment of our guests. The students and chefs of the College of the Canyons Institute of Culinary Education will be serving elegant hors d’oeuvres and baking a variety of pizzas in Tim’s outdoor wood-fired oven. The Speakeasy Bakery and the Derobertis Family will be offering their artisan breads and cheeses to delight guests. Sweet Beams Ice Cream Truck will provide a delicious ice cream dessert.

Vintners

Alonso Family Vineyard
Bouquet Vineyard
Byron Blatty Wines
Capuano Winery
Compa Vineyard
Due Nasi
Gagnon Cellars
Golden Star Vineyards
Hoi Polloi Winery
Hundred Vines
Mystic Hills Vineyard
Nuggucciet Cellars
Parhelion Cellars
Pagter Brothers
Pulchella Winery
Reyes Winery
Stephen Hemmert Wines
Whistling Vineyard
2 Papas Entourage

Among auction items will be a 10-night stay in beautiful Maui. The afternoon in this picturesque setting will be accompanied by live music.

All proceeds from this event stay in the community to fund and increase the philanthropic programs of Assistance League. Operation School Bell® is underway providing new school clothes and shoes for over 2200 students in the public schools in the Santa Clarita Valley. Eye exams and eyeglasses are provided to middle and high school children through iCare for Kids. These and several other programs serve our community to transform and benefit lives.

Ticket sales begin on September 20. Tickets are $85 in advance and $95 at the door. Please visit our website for more information and to purchase tickets. www.assistanceleaguesantaclarita.org.

Vintage Eve Circa 7/2015: Tasting Amazing Similarities in the Golden Star Vineyard 2013 Mistral Syrah

September 11, 2018 by evebushman

I think the first time I met Lee Williams he was wearing a psychedelic tie died T-Shirt at a Sunset in the Vineyard charity event. He wowed me with the wine that paired with his shirt, a “Purple Haze” Zinfandel blend, and I’ve been a fan ever since to the point of taking his wine for a videotaped tasting with Wine of the Month Club as my business partner, Michael Perlis, suggested it.

Paul Kalemkiarian talks wine with evewine101.com founder Eve Bushman. (Purple Haze from Golden Star Vineyards, seen on Paul’s right, is the next wine in our glasses – and Paul loved it!

Little did I know that Lee and I had more in common than enjoying wine…apparently our taste buds are buds too*. Check it out:

Mistral Syrah 2013

Antelope Valley of the California High Desert AVA

Alcohol 14.7% by volume

French Oak barrel

$30

Appearance

The color of purple plum skins, opaque in the center and a darker clear ribbon at the edge of my glass.

Aroma

Blackberry, fig, musk, raisin, cigar, lingering rich earth.

Flavor

Tart and zingy, rich and dry, dark fruit, black pepper, dark chocolate, reminds me of a Malbec, long tannic finish.

Pairing

Want grilled meat, a meat-lover’s pizza or a nice charcuterie board with salami, hard cheeses, figs, dates and chocolate.

Conclusion

89 Eve points. If I were eating it would be 90 Eve pts. So there’s a conclusion for you. It’s damn good without food but if you’re hungry will be even better with.

From Website www.GoldenStarVineyards.com

2013 Syrah Mistral Antelope Valley AVA is a single vineyard wine from Chavez Cellars in the Antelope Valley of the California High Desert, AVA. Aged in 100% French Oak for 12 months. It is full-bodied, ripe dark fruit with pepper, soft oak and tannin notes on the finish. Drinks well with grilled meats and veggies, as well as wild game and richly flavored stews and roasts. Also excellent with a meat lovers pizza or tomato based pastas.

*OMG Second Conclusion

I play this game with myself: I do my article and then I go to the website afterwards, I swear it’s afterwards, to see how closely my tasting notes resemble that of the winemaker’s. OMG A MEAT LOVERS PIZZA? RIPE DARK FRUIT? PEPPER? GRILLED MEAT? TANNINS ON THE FINISH? And yes, I can and have been hired to write tasting notes and I swear on the life of my unborn grandchild yet to be conceived (I hope) that I did not write Lee’s!

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 15k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Blatty Wines…Take Me Away

May 4, 2018 by evebushman

I first met Mark Blatty of Byron Blatty Wines (same person but I understand he prefers to go by Mark) at Assistance League’s wildly successful Sunset in the Vineyard 10^th Anniversary event last November. His tasting table was adjacent to the Pulchella Winery table and I quickly learned that Mark had joined other local winemakers at the Pulchella crush pad.

Then I tasted his wine and noted, I had to have more. In January I did a round up on what happens in our wineries in January and February for Elite magazine and Mark wrote, “In February Byron Blatty will be bottling at least two brand new wines for their spring release. A Rosé of Grenache that’s 100% LA County fruit as well as at least one new red blend that is Grenache, Syrah and Merlot (also LA County). It’s their unorthodox take on a GSM.” The “their” included winemakers Steve Lemley, Nate Hasper and assistant winemaker Joey Perry. (See below under “website” to learn more about the winemaking team.)

Those wines Mark referenced would prove to be the two wines I would be tasting for this article, and readers would also have a chance to maybe try them too at Wine On The Roof set for May 17.

Tasting

2017 Rosé, Los Angeles County

100% Grenache

14% alcohol

With an inviting color of rose gold I was drawn in to find aromas of ripe raspberry, lemon and lime zest, yellow peach and tropical fruit – made me think of Hawaii…and a beach…and a much needed vacation. Okay, back to the wine, I dove in (not to the ocean) for a taste. Luscious mouth coating viscosity and a hell of a lot of fruit, same as on the nose, lightly crisp and with medium acidity. As the length just went on and on, I thought how nice this would be in between bites of…just about anything that sounds good with a Rosé wine. 90 Eve pts.

2016 Tremor, Los Angeles County

65% Grenache, 30% Merlot and 5% Syrah

15.5% alcohol

Aged 18 months in French oak barrels

Dark garnet in color, with a honeyed edge that may be indicative of the time spent in oak, was my first observation. Then the spices on the nose hit me like a ton of bricks, well maybe not a ton of bricks, but the full spice rack! Along with dark plums, chocolate, red berry, blueberry – and then the two, the spices and the fruit, just melded perfectly together. Itching for a taste, you guessed it, I dove in again. A very full mouthfeel of pleasantly blended fruit, spice, a mild but welcome heat from the alcohol, toasted oak, length and a style that I wasn’t really familiar with. Maybe it was the blending Rhône with Bordeaux grapes that got my attention but I don’t care what it was, this renegade of a wine was delicious! Betting even better with a little aging or decanting. 92 Eve pts.

From The Website

Mark & Jenny Blatty, Proprietors – Mark and Jenny founded Byron Blatty Wines in 2014, after a visit to Napa Valley. Inspired by the story of Napa’s original vintners, who challenged the French with their determination to create world-class wines in a previously unproven region, the Blattys had only one rule that would guide them on their endeavor to start a commercial winery: The wines had to be from their hometown of Los Angeles. Initially they intended to plant a small vineyard on their hillside property, but soon realized that the space was not large enough, nor was it right for the varietals they had in mind. Undeterred, they began to search for vineyards in LA County from which to source their grapes. Despite the area’s rich wine history, established vineyards in LA are few and far between, and it took the couple nearly a year to discover just the right sites, tucked away in the far corners of the county.

In addition to being vintners, the Blattys also have careers in television. Mark is a Los Angeles native, and Jenny relocated from Chicago in 2001. Their first child, Oliver Byron Blatty, was born in January 2017.

Steve Lemley and Nate Hasper, Winemakers – Steve Lemley and Nate Hasper are the winemakers for Byron Blatty Wines. With more than thirty-five years of combined winemaking experience, as well as formal training at UC Davis, the pair melds a deep knowledge of modern techniques with the finesse and feel one only acquires through firsthand experience with multiple vintages. With an almost fanatical approach, they work hand in hand with our growers and in the winery to push the fruit to the absolute limits for maximum flavor and color extraction, while retaining each varietal’s nuances and subtleties. The result is bold, powerfully styled wines that stand out from the crowd.

Joey Perry, Assistant Winemaker –Joey Perry became Byron Blatty’s assistant winemaker for the 2015 vintage—his third overall—and he manages all winery operations for Lemley and Hasper. The SoCal native got his MBA from the University of Laverne and had his sights set on a career on Wall Street before a wine course at College of the Canyons in Valencia altered his path. Perry decided the trading life was not going to be for him and instead immersed himself in wine, going to work full time for Lemley and Hasper after graduation. He married his wife, Kristine, in 2015 and lives in Santa Clarita with her and their two dogs.

Website: http://www.byronblatty.com

Email: info@byronblatty.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byronblattywines/

Instagram: @byronblattywines

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

Join Assistance League® Santa Clarita for their 10th Annual Sunset in the Vineyard

September 25, 2017 by evebushman

“Sunset in the Vineyard is a celebration of the best of the Santa Clarita Valley – a generous, giving community, excellent local wineries and craft food vendors, and gracious hosts with a stunning backyard” – Marlee Lauffer, Foundation Present, Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital, and Assistance League Santa Clarita member.

Assistance League Santa Clarita’s 10^th Annual Sunset in the Vineyard fundraiser will be held on Sunday, November 5 from 1:00 to 4:00 at the picturesque Compa Vineyard and homes of Jeannie, Chris and Tim Carpenter. Chairpersons Jeannie Carpenter and Stacey Mayfield are looking forward to welcoming the community. Featured will be local “garagiste” wine makers and craft brewers, along with a rustic bread baker and an artisan cheese maker. Stone baked pizza and other culinary delights will be presented by the instructors and students from the College of the Canyons Institute of Culinary Education. This lovely afternoon will be accompanied by live music.

This event will assist in helping Assistance League Santa Clarita to increase its philanthropic efforts in the Santa Clarita Valley. Help us to transform lives in our community by donating an item for our auction and/or attending this special event. Tickets are $85 in advance and $95 at the door. Tickets go on sale September 20. For more information about how to purchase tickets, or to learn about Assistance League membership, philanthropic programs and community involvement, visit our website at www.assistanceleaguesantaclarita.org.

Round Up: Favorite Wine or Cocktail Events

March 17, 2017 by evebushman

It’s no secret that Eve’s Wine 101 co-hosts Cocktails on the Roof (save the date: 8/25/17!) and is currently recruiting wineries – and guests – to Wine in the Pines. (That date is set for 6/10/17).

This got me to thinking…what are the best wine or cocktail events our readers/followers have enjoyed and would recommend? So I got some answers from Facebook friends, hyperlinked the event websites for you and added my own notes in italics if it’s an event I’ve attended before:

Robin B: The ones we used to have in SCV which were lots of fun. (The Santa Clarita Wine Fest is the one that Robin B is referring to. The same people that run the LA Wine Fest run it, and I’ve been talking with them as they might bring it back for 2018! So stay tuned! It was/is our only large wine festival held in the Santa Clarita Valley.)

Kathie W: Cocktail event – obviously Cocktails on the Roof. (Clearly, a winner to me! If you Google our event you will see lots of pre and post event coverage for our 2015 and 2016 events. All of the money goes straight to the WiSH Education Foundation that serves all of the students in the Hart District = our middle schools and high schools.)

Jeannie C: The Assistance League Santa Clarita 10th Annual Sunset in the Vineyard is scheduled for the 1st Sunday in November at Compa Vineyard, November 5, 2017. Our inaugural was 2008! From 7 vintners, food made by the ladies from AL, music from an iPod (the event has now has grown) to 20 vintners, 2 craft breweries, the Culinary iCUE chefs and students, Dole/Humphries and friends, Valet parking, not to forget amazing community partners, a live and silent auction – and all the proceeds benefit Operation School Bell and those in need in the SCV! We’ve come a long way baby! (We’ve supported this event since the start. Don’t have much to add to Jeannie’s words, except to say that this is the singular SCV event that showcases local winemakers, some commercial and some not, so it would be tough to find some of these wines anywhere else! Or the opportunity to talk to home winemakers about their craft.)

Terri S: Any of the Rhone Rangers events…the walk around Grand Tastings are superb. (We have been covering the RR events for years. Best way to learn about domestic red and white Rhone grapes being grown here, and the awesome Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre blend, aka the GSM, that is a favorite to many. Rhone Rangers LA is 3/25.)

Russ B: Passport to Dry Creek Valley. They have a theme at each winery such as circus, beach, pirate, the movie Caddyshack, the Kentucky Derby and a Masquerade. They also have food at every winery. Great event. (4/29-30.)

Marleen R: Gosh so many. I loved Pinot Days (6/3), Celebration of Harvest Santa Barbara (10/6-9), and Ventura Winter Wine Walk (12/2). California Wine Festival (held this past Jan 2017) and of course Wine in the Pines are good one too. I look at the participating wineries and what they have to offer, besides location and value price. (The only event here that I still attend is Wine in the Pines. Look for upcoming press on that one, but I will share that this is my ultimate favorite outdoor venue for wine tasting. Why? It is wide open, you are surrounded by nature and PINE TREES.)

Lisa D: This year is SITV 10th Anniversary. Great local event.

Scott K: The Park City Food and Wine Classic is a mind-blower. (For those that want to travel, this event in Utah will be July 6-9.)

Lauren G: Inexpensive but tasty! (Lauren has volunteered for us in our Pour Into events. We raised money for the victims of the earthquake in Haiti and the Hurricane Sandy. Our minimum donation was $25 for the tasting event, with local cellar owners and winemakers donating all the wines. The venue, All Corked Up, is sadly no longer available but we would love another local venue to step up the next time we feel the urge to help others via a wine event.)

Me: Masters of Taste is a richly designed event held on the field of the Rose Bowl with wine, spirits, cocktails and food samples from the best restaurants in LA will be held on 5/7, Lucky Rice LA on 7/28 works with Bombay Sapphire Gin and serves up both Asian inspired cuisine and more, and LA Weekly’s The Essentials held on 3/26 is another event with a heck of a lot of food to sample, wine and spirits, and exceptionally large!

A Turn for the Ladies: Women I’ve Known That Have Influenced My Wine

January 20, 2017 by evebushman

I covered The 15 Most Influential Wine Men in my Life back in 2011, even needed a part two, but realize now that I never covered the women. I even reran both parts on the men in early 2016. With more male than female winemakers, sommeliers and educators I had an excuse not to write about the women I knew in the wine industry. But, on hindsight I’ve come to realize that there are some wonderful ladies that have influenced me over the years, and it’s high time to pay tribute to them.

12-7-10-claudia-denise-eve-with-our-wset-pins-at-vwc

L to R: Claudia Sheridan, Denise Lowe and Eve Bushman

My Wine Ladies (in no particular order)

Jeannie Carpenter, co-owner Compa vineyard, founder Sunset in the Vineyard, Assistance League Santa Clarita: This hard working local volunteer knows a lot about wine, knows everyone in town and has been a supporter of my non-profit events for years. Jeannie replies to our weekly Dear Wine Friend newsletter, often remarking on how much I have learned about wine over the years.

Julie Brosterman, founder Women and Wine: Julie was probably one of the first women in the wine world that I met. I wrote some blog pieces for her wildly popular website, have been invited to her home to cover events and have met many wonderful wine people simply due to her influence.

Claudia Sheridan, fellow student Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 2, social media educator and author at ClaudiaSheridan.com: Claudia has been my “wing man” not only through WSET but also on various wine trips. She knows a lot about wine, people, event organization, and now has literally written the book on social media. She is my biggest female supporter and true wine buddy. I like to tease my young friend when she uses descriptors like “Jolly Rancher candy” to describe a wine we may be tasting, but the fact is, her palate is pretty damn good.

Suzanne Phifer Pavitt, proprietor Phifer Pavitt Wine: Suzanne is filled with Southern-girl charm. She was the first vintner to invite me into her Calistoga home for an overnight stay, and has suffered through many interviews, even one on her Wine Dog. Her DateNight Cabernet Sauvignon is not to be missed, every vintage has been noteworthy.

Lil Lepore, former owner Vino 100: I miss Lil. Back in the day she and partner Shari Frazier, opened a nice wine store and bar in Valencia that not only gave wine to every event in town, but hosted wine tastings, lessons, women only nights and even film showings. Learned, made some wine friends that I still have to this day and tasted a lot in those years thanks to Lil and Shari.

Tanya Green, owner Wine 661: Tanya took over Wine 661 and it suddenly became a place to hang out – especially for women that aren’t looking for a bar atmosphere in my opinion. It’s a top choice for me to meet a pal there for a glass or a bottle, or take my newly minted 21 year-old daughter in for some pink Champagne. The wine racks always hold something new each time I come, and even though it’s small, live bands and dancing are more than welcome there.

Judy Cox, co-owner Mystic Hills Vineyard: I’ve known Judy since she ran the Betty Ferguson Foundation and I was a volunteer about 10 years ago. Fast forward and she, along with husband Joel Cox and other family members, picked up and moved to Paso Robles. Fast forward some more and they decided to plant vines and become vintners. I was lucky enough to work with them when they started out promoting their wines in press releases and events. At “press” time every single wine they produced has won at least one award. I especially like their Unforgiven Bordeaux blend and Rose.

Denise Lowe, fellow student Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 2, wine educator Goddess of Wine: Loved bantering wine with Denise, she kept me on my toes testing my knowledge and then she moved to Morro Bay where she has since become more involved as the area’s wine educator.

Nina Rosenblatt Sventitsky, Board Member and Secretary General for the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Rioja Specialist: Nina got her hands on me for the American Wine Certification course I recently took and passed. Her wealth of knowledge is immense. I look forward to many more years of education.

Marlee Lauffer, Foundation President at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, wine lover: Marlee is a good pal, and like Jeannie Carpenter, a supporter – and more recently a co-host – of events I have produced and promoted (with the help of many). Marlee’s main function in my wine education has been to promote Pinot Noir – kind of an inside joke – and has introduced me to several wineries that I hadn’t known about.

Kathy Lockhart, founder Wine-y Women Unwind Meet-up and Facebook group: Kathy also supports many of the events I’ve promoted. Along with that, she has created a growing group of female wine lovers – over 300 I believe – that are interested in all kinds of wine-centric activities. I wish I had Kathy’s energy!

Almost here! The 9th Annual Sunset in the Vineyard!

September 28, 2016 by evebushman

The 9^th Annual Sunset in the Vineyard, benefitting programs of Assistance League^® Santa Clarita, will be held on Sunday, November 6^th from 1- 4 pm at Compa Vineyard in Newhall.

This palate-pleasing fall celebration has quickly become one of Santa Clarita’s premier wine events:

“It’s a celebration of the best of the Santa Clarita Valley–a generous, giving community, excellent local wineries and craft food vendors, and gracious hosts with a stunning backyard.” Marlee Lauffer, Foundation President of Henry Mayo Memorial Hospital and Assistance League Santa Clarita member

“It’s the closest thing to sipping and savoring in Tuscany – without having to go through an airport scanner.” Diana Sevanian, Community Writer, Non-profit Volunteer

“This event, while fun, offers the opportunity to make a difference in a young person’s life by providing basic fundamental needs.” Rose Chegwin, VP of Administration, Del West Engineering

The Chairs for the afternoon will be Jeannie Carpenter, Chris Cook and Stacey Mayfield. Many of our valley’s private vineyards and wine makers will be represented along with De Robertis Family Artisan Cheeses, VNTBC Nano Brewery, Copperhill Brewery and Speakeasy Bakery. We will have the opportunity to taste and savor wine, craft brews, cheeses, and breads directly from the artisans. Chef Cindy Schwanke and Michelle Razzano, along with their talented students from College of the Canyons Institute for Culinary Education will be making pizza from Tim’s wood-fired oven. While guests are enjoying this lovely event and partaking in an exciting live and silent auction, they will be entertained by music performed by Dole/Humphries.

ARTISANS

ALONSO FAMILY VINEYARDS, BELLISSIMO CELLARS, BOBCAT RED and DUE NASI, BOUQUET VINEYARD, CAPUANO WINERY, COMPA VINEYARD, COPPERHILL BREWERY, CPB WINES, DEROBERTIS FAMILY ARTISAN CHEESES, GAGNON CELLARS, GOLDEN STAR VINEYARDS, HOI POLLOI WINERY, HUNDRED VINES, MYSTIC HILLS VINEYARD, NUGGUCCIET CELLARS, PAGTER BROS, PUCHELLA WINERY, REYES WINERY, SPEAKEASY BAKERY, STEPHEN HEMMERT WINES, VNTBC NANNO BREWERY, WHISTLING VINEYARD.

Tickets for Sunset in the Vineyard are $85 in advance and $95 at the door. Complimentary valet parking is included. Tickets go on sale September 20^th. To purchase tickets, donate an auction item, or learn more about Assistance League go to www.assistanceleaguesantaclarita.org and/or like us on Facebook at facebook.com/assistanceleaguesantaclarita/

Some of these needs are met by Assistance League’s^® signature program, Operation School Bell^®. As guests stroll by the “Back to School” display at Sunset, they will have the opportunity to see what this program is all about. Child sized mannequins decked out in Old Navy clothes and Payless Shoe Source shoes bring to life the reality that for many children in our valley, the only way they will be wearing new school clothes is through this program. The handwritten thank you notes Assistance League^® receives communicate heartfelt messages of gratitude from the students and families. This year over 2500 students in need were clothed through the program!

Assistance League Santa Clarita, organized in 1989 by local women, was chartered in 1993 and has grown to 174 members and 51 Assisteens^®. A chapter of National Assistance League, it is a nonprofit, nonpolitical, nonsectarian, and IRS 501(c)(3) service organization. It is also a 100% volunteer-driven organization. All funds raised from Sunset in the Vineyard benefit Assistance League programs exclusively in the Santa Clarita Valley such as Operation School Bell^® and i-care for kids which provides new prescription glasses for students.

Vintage Eve Circa 12/2008: From Wine Bordeaux To Eve

October 12, 2008 by evebushman

After Sunset in the Vineyard, hosted by Jeannie Carpenter for the Assistance League, I kept in touch with a few of our local winemakers. One, Roman Weiser, aka “Wine Bordeaux”, suggested an idea for my readers. Wade through our wine soaked journey below and send me your thoughts.

From: Wine Bordeaux To: Eve

Director Roman Weiser (a winemaker of many talents) and videographer John Dickey, hard at work!

At this time of a year the newly made wine is already resting in barrels, but there is plenty of other fun stuff to do. For example the ‘chores’ like tasting barrel samples or racking (separating wine from the lees sediment). This is also the time to think about the name for our wines and design the label. Every wine has a story behind it and the label usually reflects just that. It’s like finding the right name for a newborn; home wine makers are funny that way.

Vineyards are getting ready for dormant stage. The leaves will soon fall and vine growers sharpen their pruners as this will be time to give our beloved vines a healthy ‘haircut’. And then we wait while continue racking the wines and taste them carefully to see if the oak is at bay and the wine continues healthy upbringing.

Eve, we are planning many new things and we will inform you about them as they crystallize.

In the mean time, I have a suggestion for your column. This would involve local wine merchants, exciting reviews, great fun source of wine educations for your readers, promote local business and interest in wine in general … let me know if you are interested to hear more

To: Wine Bordeaux From: Eve

Wow Roman, lots of food for thought here. I would be interested in any phase of the wine making process and hearing more of what you have to say! My column runs every week, lots of events to cover…am also interested in non-event news. So, what was your idea?

From: Wine Bordeaux To: Eve

Peak into your cellar.

This little idea could be a fun theme for a weekly column don’t you think? Your readers would write in about the wines they believe people don’t have in their cellar with brief, geographic info about the region, description and maybe few tasting notes? Your readers will be surely compelled to write in and show off a little. This could be a great fun source of wine education as well! Good thinking Eve. Let’s give it a little test:

I think you don’t have any Alsatian wines… Am I right?

Alsace is located in North East of France, between the Vosges and the Rhine river. All wines planted are white. The grapes in Alsace are: Riesling (23% of Alsace wines), Pinot Blanc (20%), Gewurztraminer (18%), Tokay Pinot Gris (13%), Sylvaner (12%).

The best producers: Albert Mann, Zind Humbrecht, Barmes-Buecher among others. I love Albert Mann’s Riesling and Gewürztraminer. They are semisweet and oh so seductive!

OK, you are on – what wines do you think you have that I don’t?

From Eve to Wine Bordeaux:

Splendid idea.

No, I don’t have any Alsace in my cellar, I think, at the moment. But I’ve had them! Does that count?

I bet you don’t have the inaugural year of Agua Dulce’s (AD) champagne! I have a list…wait…ok so my husband has it hidden from me…don’t know why…but I know for a fact I have an 1986 Lynch Bages (LB)…the rest I’d have to look up. Gee talking to you is like talking to COC’s Wine Classic wine chair Jeff Jacobson.

From: Wine Bordeaux To: Eve

Very well! See, this was fun for us two – it surely will be fun for your readers. I am sure the idea can be taken bit further, to bring a little of competition into it!

LB 1986 scored well on Parker – 92 pts and it can be a good bottle to open now, and next 10 years. I have large collection of Bordeaux wines, they are my passion.

I didn’t even know AD makes sparkling wines (Champagne only comes from Champagne France)

Oh yes I do know Jeff Jacobson. We are friends. I always assist him pouring wines at the Wine Classic.

From Eve to Wine Bordeaux:

We’ve been buying Bordeaux futures since 2000. But we can’t open the LB as it’s the year we were married (yes, that’s how I remembered it). So I’m guessing that we better drink it by our 30th – thanks for the advice!

Yes, I know AD’s is a Sparkling, damn!

From: Wine Bordeaux To: Eve

Good luck and let me know if you need my assistance in the future.