Bledsoe Family Winery’s Bend Tasting Room Now Open in Walla Walla Oregon

September 15, 2019 by evebushman

(BEND, Ore.) — For the last 12 years, Drew and Maura Bledsoe have been raising their four children in Bend, Oregon, while successfully operating Doubleback Winery and Bledsoe Family Winery in Drew’s hometown of Walla Walla, Wash. It’s only fitting, then, that the former NFL quarterback would opt to open his second Bledsoe Family Winery tasting room — and the first outside of Walla Walla — so close to his adopted and current home in Central Oregon.

The trendy and historic Box Factory between downtown Bend and the Old Mill District, Bledsoe Family Winery’s 3,593-square-foot tasting room will welcome wine lovers with an indoor/outdoor concept that will be right at home in Bend. A formal grand opening event is being scheduled for early September.

“We are thrilled to be able to share our passion for wine with a community that has created so many wonderful opportunities and memories for our family,” said Drew Bledsoe, who moved to Bend with his family shortly after he retired from football in 2006. “Bend has long been a beer and outdoors town, both of which have become interwoven into the fabric of the town. And we felt that the timing is right to pair great wine with the area’s beloved outdoor-oriented culture, too, and to do so in a way that is both unique and fun. This has long been a dream for us.”

With soaring ceilings, walls lined with staves that have been repurposed from Doubleback and Bledsoe Family Winery wine barrels, and large, roll-top doors that make for a seamless indoor-outdoor transition, the tasting room creates an experience that is at once elegant, refined, industrial, and rustic.

White quartz countertops befitting a formal tasting room are contrasted by a large barn mural on one of the interior walls that pays homage to the Bledsoe family’s Flying B ranch in Ellensburg, Wash. The spacious tasting room offers indoor and patio seating on the first floor, a mezzanine for private tastings and events, and a lineup of wines available for purchase by the glass or bottle.

Given the success of Bledsoe Family Winery’s Walla Walla tasting room, president and director of winemaking Josh McDaniels expects the Bend location to be similarly received by locals and tourists alike.

“The Bledsoe Family Winery tasting room is designed to be open and accessible for all to enjoy,” said McDaniels. “We want our guests to be able to enjoy a great wine in a beautiful space, while at the same time creating a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere, a hallmark of both Bend and Walla Walla.”

For a $20 tasting fee, which is refundable with any bottle purchase, guests can sample a flight of four Bledsoe Family Winery wines from a rotating lineup that includes Elizabeth Chardonnay, Healy Rosé, Stolen Horse Syrah, Flying B Cabernet Sauvignon, and Bledsoe Family Wine. Wine club members will receive as many as six complimentary tastings per month and a 20% discount off wines by the glass or bottle.

The tasting room — at 555 NW Arizona Ave, Suite #198 — is open from noon-8 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m. For more information on Bledsoe Family Winery, visit bledsoefamilywinery.com.

About Doubleback & Bledsoe Family Winery:
Founded in 2007 by retired NFL quarterback and Walla Walla native Drew Bledsoe and his wife Maura, Doubleback Winery is committed to producing ultra-premium, estate-focused wines from the Walla Walla Valley that enrich life’s experiences. In April 2018, Doubleback took occupancy of its new 14,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art winery and appointment-only tasting room along Powerline Road, on Walla Walla’s southside. The Bledsoe’s second label, Bledsoe Family Winery, is committed to producing premium wines for any occasion, with tremendous value, from the same family that brings you Doubleback. Bledsoe Family Winery operates a tasting room at 229 E. Main St. in downtown Walla Walla that is open Wednesday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., or by appointment. For more information, or to join the Doubleback mailing list or the Bledsoe Family Winery wine club, visit www.doubleback.com or www.bledsoefamilywinery.com, email info@doubleback.com or info@bledsoefamilywinery.com, or call 509-525-3334.

Vintage Eve Circa 9/2016: A Trio to Taste From Paso’s Oso Libre

September 10, 2019 by evebushman

After regrettably missing out on a wine luncheon orchestrated by Cori Solomon of the #LAWineWriters Cori reached out to the winery and connected me so that I could review a few samples from home. The winery: Oso Libre in Paso Robles.

A Teaser

Nestled in the Santa Lucia Mountains on the far western edge of Paso Robles’ acclaimed Adelaida district, Oso Libre Winery is fast gaining recognition for its rich, complex wines and for the unusual microclimate of the sustainably farmed vineyards that produce them. This small, family-owned estate lies just 10 miles from the Pacific Ocean, which is consistently cooler than the rest of Paso Robles and is proving ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon, Rhone varieties and Primitivo.

Owners Chris and Linda Behr acquired the 90-acre property in 1996 when it was raw land and set about developing it into a sustainable working cattle ranch and vineyard. After more than 10 years of getting to know the region, understanding the property’s unique microclimates and learning how to grow grape vines and make wine, the couple was ready to embark on their next phase—a winery. Their son Jeff Freeland and his wife Elizabeth, with their twin daughters, moved north from Los Angeles in 2007 and two years later the family winery opened for business. (‘Oso Libre’ is Spanish for ‘free bear,’ a combination of their last names and a nod to Linda’s Hispanic heritage.)

Tasting – Aromas and flavors divided by ;

2012 Nativo (100% Estate Primitivo)

Dark browned plum in color. Spiced red apple, plums, dark cherry, mushroom, earth and dark cocoa; bright red fruit, cracked black pepper, dry and good tannins. 90 Eve pts.

2012 Carnal (Grenache, Petite Sirah, Syrah)

Blackberry in color. Smokey blue to black fruit including blueberry, blackberry, black plum, cigar, grilled mushrooms, grilled meat, spice rack; same dark and robust fruit, dust, black pepper, firm balanced tannins. Want another bottle. 92 Eve pts.

2012 Vino d’Oro (Chardonnay)

The color of pale yellow hay. Oak, Meyer lemon, cantaloupe melon unsalted butter; viscous, both cream and tang from the oak, lemon with a long finish. 89 Eve pts.

Visiting Oso Libre

With its distinctive Central Coast location, award-winning wines and picturesque working ranch and vineyards, a visit to Oso Libre Winery offers guests much more than wine. Just off Highway 46 towards Hearst Castle, the mountain setting boasts outdoor patio seating just steps from the vines. The SIP-certified (Sustainability in Progress) estate is powered by solar panels and a wind machine, and Oso Libre practices sustainability in all areas of the business. A spacious and welcoming tasting room is open every day except Tuesdays, and visitors are encouraged to take their time tasting and learning about Oso Libre’s limited production wines. An impressive display of 54 bottles on the tasting room wall, one from each of their neighboring wineries, emphasizes the close ties Oso Libre has to its fellow vintners and the community spirit they all enjoy. The winery is dog and kid-friendly and families can view the “working partners” grazing in the pastoral, mountainous ranch setting. Wine club members are treated to the locally raised dry-aged beef at member gatherings and special events at the winery.

Oso Libre’s wines not only offer a sense of terroir of this coveted Central Coast region, they also embody the winery’s blended beliefs of commitment to sustainability, craftsmanship and charity. Oso Libre prides itself in creating a sustainable and healthy ecosystem for every component of its working ranch.

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.

Tasting Five From Byron Blatty Wines

September 6, 2019 by evebushman

I know, lots about Byron Blatty Wines from me lately, but this time I actually took some time to try five of their wines for review and write up the full tasting notes. Not only examining aromas and flavors alone, I invited about 15 ladies from the Winey Women Unwind meet-up group to join me for “collective” tasting notes and feedback. Let’s see what everyone thought:

2018 Rosé, 100% Grenache. Neenach Ranch Vineyard, Antelope Valley

Aroma: Pear blossom, strawberry, sandalwood, musk.

Flavor: Bruised yellow apple, tart and sweet fruit, grapefruit, tequila.

One of our Wine-y Women is not a red wine fan, she was happy to sip on this Grenache Rose for the remainder of the night!

2016 Agenda, 85% Syrah, 15% Tannat. Alonso Family Vineyards, Sierra Pelona Valley (the Tannat came from Bella Collina, Adelaida District, Paso Robles.)

91 points, Editor’s Choice, Wine Enthusiast

Aroma: Chocolate, vanilla, sugar, plum, black currant, raisin and dust.

Flavor: Blackberry, tart dark cherry, crushed plum, earth and tannin.

The ladies were surprised to learn that Alonso Family Vineyards is owned and run by Juan Alonso, owner of our own LA County based Le Chene restaurant.

2017 Tremor, 65% Grenache, 30% Merlot, 5% Syrah. From Neenach Ranch Vineyard (Grenache), Smith Family Vineyards (Merlot), Alonso Family Vineyards (Syrah). All vineyards run parallel to the San Andreas Fault.

Aroma: Cloves, wheat toast, black fruit, port wine, vanilla, plum jam.

Flavor: Blackberry, blueberry, vanilla, allspice, mulled wine.

This was the first favorite of more than half of the ladies. The wine had also been decanted in advance into…my new #PortoVinoWinePurse.

2016 Evenfall 65% Tempranillo, 25% Petite Sirah, 10% Merlot. Neenach Ranch Vineyard, Antelope Valley (Grenache), Manini Vineyard, Paso Robles (Petite Sirah), Smith Family Vineyards, Los Angeles County (Merlot).

Aroma: Black licorice, musty/dusty, green peppercorn, dark fruit and dark chocolate.

Flavor: Tri-color peppercorn, dark, big and jammy with black cherry and caramel notes.

This is my personal favorite, and I was happy to see that the group agreed with my assessment of quality. They also learned that winemakers Nate Hasper and Steve Lemley, of our own Pulchella Winery, were the winemakers for all of Byron Blatty’s wines.

2017 Undertake 60% Zinfandel, 25% Petite Sirah, 10% Merlot, 5% Syrah. All from the Northeast LA County, except for the Petite Sirah which came from Paso.

Aroma: Raspberry, red licorice, blackberry, black pepper and bright cherry – a nice mix of red and black fruit.

Flavor: Earthy, mushroom, blackberry jam and cranberry tea.

The Zin lovers in the room, and there were many, were really happy with this Zin. A couple made it their favorite in the tasting.

One quote from the evening says it all, from Samantha F., “I feel like the last three wines we tasted grew richer and richer as we progressed along.” I had to agree as most if not all of the women were growing in fandom as we moved along as well.

To inquire about Membership options please email mark@byronblatty.com or see their website: https://byronblatty.com/membership

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.

Vintage Eve Circa 8/2016: Taking Over Skirball, Rhone Rangers LA 2016 Part Two

August 20, 2019 by evebushman

To continue where I left off last week, this is Part Two of my Rhone Rangers LA coverage. Or just have a taste via the photos here: https://www.facebook.com/eve.bushman/posts/10208640076546763?pnref=story

Wineries H-Z (A-F ran last week)

Tom Stolpman says, “I don’t always drink wine but when I do it’s La Cuadrilla” from, you guessed it, Stolpman Vineyards!

For some of you that think I was nuts to skip a particular winery…it may have been because I “Gave a Positive Review Already” and chose to forage on to other wineries. These wineries will be noted as GPRA and will have a hyperlink to my review…if I can find it. While some others, that may have been equally stellar as those I did visit, suffered my absence (Ha!) due to me suffering a wee bit of palate fatigue, so those are noted as SPF. (Editor’s note: any links for the West Ranch Beacon, aka WRB, are now closed, the webmaster chose not to save the links when he closed up his site. Also note that every article I wrote for the WRB is re-purposed on this site every Tuesday.)

Halter Ranch Vineyard – Always great to see Tony Quealy, Tasting Room Mgr. and all around nice guy, pouring at events. The last I enjoyed Halter Ranch wine I raved about was a Malbec from the Cab Collective event. Before that was a weekend tasting and tour at the ranch that I will never forget: http://www.thescvbeacon.com/category_view.php?catg=5&id=3985 At this event I enjoyed the 2014 CDP Red Blend, 2014 Syrah and a first bottling of their new 2013 Cuvee Alice blend of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre and Tannat, only 175 cases. (Not even sure of the wine’s spelling as it’s not yet online!)

Hearst Ranch Winery – Had their Cabernet Franc at a Family Winemakers event, which got them on my radar, this time I enjoyed the 2013 Three Sisters Red Blend and the lovely aromas and then the flavors in the 2013 Pergola Petite Sirah.

Jaffurs Wine Cellars – Enjoyed their 2013 Santa Barbara Grenache, 2013 Santa Barbara Syrah, 2012 Bien Nacido Vineyard Syrah and 2014 Thompson Vineyard Petite Sirah. This was not a table I remember being at before so I’m glad to have made the time.

Kaena Wine – SPF

Kale Wines – Michael Perlis was chatting it up with Kale Anderson, the winemaker and owner who had also participated in that day’s seminar, so I got a quick introduction and a taste of his 2013 Kale Home Run Cuvee from the Kick Ranch Vineyard and the 2013 Kale Broken Axle from the Stagecoach Vineyard. Both were grand.

Kaleidos – GPRA http://www.westranchbeacon.com/weekly-column.php?id=5402

Kenneth Volk Vineyards – GPRA http://www.westranchbeacon.com/weekly-column.php?id=5402

Larner Vineyard & Winery – GPRA It was nice to spy Michael Larner and I would’ve loved to just sit and drink his wines – if I wasn’t at this event. He had also been in the seminar so I hope to read Michael’s coverage on that soon. http://evewine101.com/2016/06/03/santa-barbara-road-trip-los-angeles-rhone-varieties/

Leverage – SPF

Lone Madrone – Enjoyed the 2013 Points West White blend, 2013 Mourvedre and the 2014 Oveja Negra Red Blend.

Martian Ranch & Vineyard – GPRA often tasted during previous years at the LA Wine Fest.

Morgan Winery – SPF

Pomar Junction Vineyard & Winery – SPF

Qupe – SPF

Record Family Wines – SPF

Ridge Vineyards – GPRA http://www.westranchbeacon.com/weekly-column.php?id=5402

Rock Wall Wine Company – SPF

Sculpterra Winery – More than one person has shared photos with me of this Paso Robles property but I can’t recall a tasting…so I did them all. Of mention is the 2014 Viognier, 2013 Mourvedre, the spicy aroma of the 2014 Mega Focus GSM Red Blend and the firm tannins in the 2012 Petite Sirah. They are what the rep called a “Cab prominent” winery so I clearly have to visit to try more.

Stolpman Vineyards – GPRA First person I met with on the tasting floor was the owner of Stolpman Vineyards, Tom Stolpman. The last time I tasted with him was just a couple of weeks before, at the Long Beach Grand Cru. And one of the most memorable vineyard tours I ever took was with his son Peter: http://evewine101.com/2013/03/08/eve-and-peter-stolpman-stolpman-vineyards-ballard-canyon-tour-picnic-and-tasting/ I did a quick repeat tasting of the 2013 L’Avion Roussanne, 2014 La Cuadrilla Red Blend that has a picture of Tom hidden under a sombrero on the label, 2014 Estate Syrah and 2014 Angeli 100% Syrah. We had joined the Angeli wine club for that one.

Tablas Creek Vineyard – This Rhone-only Paso producer makes a lot of varieties. During this tasting I thoroughly enjoyed the 2014 Espirit de Tablas Blanc white blend, 2015 Grenache Blanc, 2014 Mourvedre and 2014 Espirit de Tables (red). The white blend was my favorite.

Tercero Wines – GPRA http://evewine101.com/2016/06/03/santa-barbara-road-trip-los-angeles-rhone-varieties/

http://www.westranchbeacon.com/weekly-column.php?id=5402

The Withers Winery – SPF

Treana & Hope Family Wines – SPF

Two Shepherds – GPRA http://www.westranchbeacon.com/weekly-column.php?id=5402

Villa Creek Cellars – GPRA Happy to hear that winemaker Cris Cherry is still at the helm, and can be found at the namesake restaurant in downtown Paso at times as well. We visited a few years back and I was desperate for re-visit! http://evewine101.com/2011/03/18/the-paso-robles-shout-out-photos-are-in-post-below-this-one/ This time it was a killer 2013 Willow Creek Cuvee GSM, 2013 Avenger blend of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre and the 2013 High Road blend of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre that got my attention.

Vina Robles – GPRA Tasted SEVERAL times but couldn’t pass up on tasting the latest http://www.westranchbeacon.com/visit-article-archives-view.php?catg=8&id=6287 Another winemaker I’m happy to know is still at the helm, Kevin Willenborg, of Vina Robles. I was delighted with the 2013 RED4 blend, the very big 2012 Estate Petite Sirah and the 2011 Syree Syrah made with 20% Petite Sirah.

Zinke Wines – A new one for me to discover, maybe visit the tasting room in Los Olivos for more of the 2014 Whitehawk Vineyard Viognier, 2013 Central Coast Syrah, 2014 Jack McGinley Vineyard Syrah and 2013 Thompson Vineyard Syrah.

Vintage Eve Circa 8/2016: Taking Over Skirball, Rhone Rangers LA 2016 Part One

August 13, 2019 by evebushman

The Rhone Rangers rode into the Skirball last weekend and as a major Rhone wine lover I was thrilled to attend the tasting again. A seminar and luncheon was also offered in the day’s events, see an upcoming article from Contributing Editor Michael Perlis as he covered that portion.

Wine 101ers: What is a Rhône

Basically Rhône grapes were born in the Rhône Valley of France and are now grown here in the U.S. The most common reds make up the “GSM” blend: Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre. On the white end you may have already had a Viognier – think Sauvignon Blanc without the high acid and with more delicate fruit. Other whites that may have crossed your palate are Roussanne and Marsanne, sometimes alone or in a white Rhône blend. If you want to wine geek out more here is a listing of “The 22 Rhone Ranger Grapes” direct from the Rhone Rangers website.

Tony Quealy from Halter Ranch Vineyard and Gary Stewart from Four Brix Winery.

Wineries A-F (Part Two, Wineries H-Z will run next week)

Photos: https://www.facebook.com/eve.bushman/posts/10208640076546763?pnref=story

Adelaida Cellars – GPRA I will never forget the wine dinner I had with some nicely aged wines from the Adelaida cellar – and a lesson that Paso wines don’t have to be drunk right away. http://www.westranchbeacon.com/category.php?catg=8&id=2721 and http://www.westranchbeacon.com/visit-article-archives-view.php?catg=8&id=6287

Andrew Murray Vineyard – SPF

Beckmen Vineyards – Enjoyed the 2013 Cuvee Le Bec Red Blend and a 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon at a tasting two weeks ago with Tasting Room Mgr. Neil Redmond (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10208567024880517&set=pcb.10208567026520558&type=3&theater) so I skipped the Cuvee at this tasting but really enjoyed a big yet balanced wine club offering: The 2014 PMV Syrah Clone #1.

Bernat – SPF

Bonny Doon – Rock star (and there were a few of them at the event repping their wineries) Randall Grahm poured about a dozen of his wines. I had been a fan of his “Le Cigare” label for as long as I can remember. Well, at least since I first heard the story about the law against landing a flying saucer in the vineyards of France. This time I really liked the 2011 Le Cigare Volant Red Blend, 2011 Le Cigare Volant Reserve Red Blend, Clos de Gilroy Grenache, 2014 Old Telegram Mourvedre and the 2011 Bien Nacido Vineyard “X-Block” Syrah. My absolute faves being the Reserve, Mourvedre and the X-Block.

Broken Earth Winery – SPF

Calcareous Vineyard – A beautiful winery with an expansive view for picnickers paired with equally outstanding wines. Been a favorite of mine for many years, so it was a treat to see them at Rhone Rangers. This time I enjoyed the fruit and spice in the 2013 Syrah, the 2016 Tres Violet blend of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre, the 2013 Moose blend of Syrah and Petit Verdot and the tart and bright 2015 Lily Blanc blend of Grenache Blanc, Roussanne and Viognier. I had a full lineup to taste back in 2011 here: http://evewine101.com/2011/04/29/calcareous-vineyards-lineup-paired-with-pals/ 2014 here: http://westranchbeacon.com/weekly-column.php?id=2342 and most recently here: http://www.westranchbeacon.com/visit-article-archives-view.php?catg=8&id=6287

Cass Winery – GPRA http://www.westranchbeacon.com/weekly-column.php?id=5402,

http://evewine101.com/2016/01/05/vintage-beacon-april2011-a-truly-inspired-cass-wine-pairing-dinner/ and most recently: http://www.westranchbeacon.com/visit-article-archives-view.php?catg=8&id=6287 another rock star, Ted Plemons, co-owner of Cass Winery was pouring once again. This time I only had one: the 2013 Rockin’ One Red Blend, tasty stuff.

Chacewater – GPRA http://www.westranchbeacon.com/weekly-column.php?id=5402

Clayhouse Wines – SPF

CONSILIENCE WINES – SPF

Derby Wine Estates – Enjoyed the steely fruit in the 2014 Picpoul Blanc, the 2012 Grenache Blanc, 2012 Fifteen 10 Red Blend, the very big 2013 Petite Sirah and the spice and bright red fruit of the 2011 Mourvedre. One of my favorite tables.

Ecluse Wines – GPRA Tasted these Paso wines very recently, and I loved their entire lineup. http://evewine101.com/2016/02/26/ecluse-unlocking-a-paso-favorite/

Epoch Estate Wines – The two red blends were simply awesome: the Syrah heavy 2012 Ingenuity Red Blend and the Big/Spicy/Yummy 2013 Estate Red Blend.

Fess Parker & Epiphany – GPRA and SPF

Four Brix Winery – GPRA I was just at the winery this past April however I didn’t get to see co-owner/winemaker Gary Stewart – yet another rock star – at that time. It was nice to be able to chat with him at this event…and see that he was pouring all of my favorites. Don’t miss the “Smitten” Viognier.

http://www.westranchbeacon.com/weekly-column.php?id=6074

Part Two of this story will run next Tuesday.

How Was the Wine Dinner Collaboration With Byron Blatty Wines and The Old Town Junction?

August 2, 2019 by evebushman

All I knew in advance about the sold out “Taste of Summer” wine dinner before I attended was the wine list from Byron Blatty Wines. Vintner Mark Blatty was going to be in attendance, as well as winemakers Steve Lemley and Nate Hasper. (You know these names as the winemakers for our very own local Pulchella Winery.)

The Old Town Junction (OTJ) was filled to capacity, taking advantage of both the large front and back rooms. The usual friendly OTJ wait staff were smiling during their efficient work; as the diners were appreciative, interested and happy. Mark, Steve and Nate worked the room, talking to guests and helping to clear glasses to make way to serve new wines. During each course Chef Daniel Otto came out of the kitchen to discuss the food pairing, and he was joined by either Mark or Steve to talk about the wine.

Before I share the pairings first a little bit about the story behind Byron Blatty Wines…as they stand out for several reasons: they are on the forefront of making a true LA County wine movement by primarily using grapes from LA County in their wines. In a previous article I did the Blattys shared their reasons for wanting to focus on LA County grapes, this is an excerpt:

Mark Blatty

BIO: “There is a common thread,” Mark began, “and it’s that all of us here love to drink wine.” He and Jenny have a background in television production and now they are also “Executive Producers” of their wine. He’s learned that you don’t have to own it all (a winery and the vineyards) to make wine.

CHALLENGES: Consumers have zero experience or a “bad experience” with LA County wines. But when people discover the wines, and enjoy them, he feels a certain sense of pride as an Angeleno. Another challenge: those writing about wine aren’t writing about LA County Wines, so there is no book educating them.

Jenny Blatty

BIO: For Jenny it was a “daydream” and she was “obsessed with wine.” That obsession drove her to take classes and start making wines in 2013. Putting out their first vintage in 2014 – most of the grapes they picked themselves and continue to do so. That first vintage produced less than two barrels.

The Pairing

2018 Rosé, 100% Grenache. Neenach Ranch Vineyard, Antelope Valley

Course #1: American and European cheese and fruit.

EB: This plate was devoured by guests. Chef Otto felt that the nuts complemented the Grenache Rose, I felt that it all did. Nothing better than a starter of interesting cheeses and a cool and crisp pink wine before dinner.

2016 Agenda, 85% Syrah, 15% Tannat. Alonso Family Vineyards, Sierra Pelona Valley (the Tannat came from Bella Collina, Adelaida District, Paso Robles.)

91 points, Editor’s Choice, Wine Enthusiast

Course #2: Seared Day Boat Scallops, pea puree, corn relish, Yuzo gel.

EB: This was my favorite pairing. I told Chef Otto that the grilled sear on the scallops and the roast on the corn complemented the Syrah-Tannat blend nicely, bringing out a sweet char. Where most chefs go for a white wine with fish, for me it’s more about how the fish is prepared. Glad Chef Otto thinks this way too.

2017 Undertake 60% Zinfandel, 25% Petite Sirah, 10% Merlot, 5% Syrah. All from the Northeast LA County, except for the Petite Sirah which came from Paso.

Course #3: Braised Short Rib, heirloom carrots, creamed spinach, crispy fingerling potatoes, asparagus, red wine demi.

EB: For me, the short rib had a drying quality on the palate, having it with this huge red blend was the perfect accompaniment.

Course #4: Pork Tenderloin, rubbed with toasted spices, house made BBQ sauce, apple gel, onion strings, roasted sweet potatoes.

EB: Evenfall was my favorite wine in the lineup. In the pairing, the aroma of the pork reached me before I took my first bite, making it very tempting. With all of the rich pork and sweet potato the wine – dry with gripping tannins – worked really well.

Dessert Course: Warm Chocolate Cake with Berry Compote.

EB: Honestly, at this point, I was full and sated…then this dessert just put me over the edge. I packed it up (in a box that joined my other box with some short rib and pork tenderloin) as it was all simply too good to leave behind.

Photos here, here and here.

Note on the wines

Not having the opportunity to do tasting notes just on the wines, I rectified this by organizing a small tasting with the Winey Women Unwind group in a couple of weeks. Stay tuned for our collective tasting notes on this website soon.

About Byron Blatty Wines

With a focus on red Bordeaux and Rhone varietals, each one of our handcrafted wines is meticulously guided from flower to fruit, harvest to crush, and barrel to bottle. Along the way we make each careful decision with the fruit’s identity and individual character in mind.

If terroir is an expression of place, Los Angeles has never been expressed this way before.

To inquire about Membership options please email: mark@byronblatty.com, or see their website: https://byronblatty.com/membership

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

July 30, 2019 by evebushman

This is a continuation from my story last week, and we had left off tasting some stellar Stars of California vintages at a WineLA.com tasting event. This is the slideshow for those that want to skip ahead.

The Pour List (continued) at Press Time, my notes are in italics:

MIURA VINEYARDS
Pisoni Vineyard Pinot Noir, St. Lucia Highlands 2012
Pinot Noir, St. Lucia Highlands 2014
Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley 2013
Antiqvs Syrah, Garys Vineyard, St. Lucia Highlands 2009

NEAL FAMILY
Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012
2015 Sauvignon Blanc, Howell Mountain, Napa 2015
Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford Dust Vineyards 2006
Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain, Napa 2007

PAX MAHLE WINES
‘The Hermit’ Pax Syrah, North Coast 2013
Grenache, James Berry Vineyard, 2012
Syrah, Castelli-Knight Ranch, Russian River 2011
Loved The Hermit for its dainty floral finish, unexpected for me in a Syrah, and the Castelli-Knight Ranch Syrah for its earthiness.

POMAR JUNCTION
Viognier, Paso Robles 2015
Cotes De Pomar Blanc, Paso Robles 2015
GSM, Paso Robles 2013
Merlot, Paso Robles 2013

ROUND POND ESTATE
Sauvignon Blanc, Rutherford 2015
‘Kith and Kin’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2014
Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford Estate 2013

Another fave I had already tasted recently. Especially the Kith and Kin that was gifted to me by a fellow wine lover.

RUED WINES
Pinot Noir, Russian River 2012
Zinfandel, Dry Creek 2013
Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Creek 2015
Chardonnay, Russian River 2015

TOLOSA
Rosé of Pinot Noir, Tolosa Vineyards, Edna Valley 2014
‘Pure’ Chardonnay, Tolosa Vineyards, Edna Valley 2014
‘1772’ Pinot Noir, Tolosa Vineyards, Edna Valley 2014
‘Marley Anne’ Pinot Noir, Tolosa Vineyards, Edna Valley 2014

VINEMARK CELLARS
Primitivo, Paso Robles 2013
‘Mezzanotte’ Red Blend, Paso Robles 2013
Cabernet Franc, Paso Robles 2013
Buona Miscela, Paso Robles 2014

A favorite from my judging stint for the Long Beach Grand Cru. A 2013 Petite Sirah was an add-in and simply awesome, as well as a 2014 Port-style Petite Sirah. The showstopper was the Buona Miscela Sangiovese from Monterey – look for that one too.

WESTERLY WINES
Bentrock Chardonnay, Santa Barbara 2014
Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2012
Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Barbara 2012
Côte Blonde, Santa Barbara 2012

I’ve only tasted Westerly wines once before, at Pour d’Vino in Lancaster, this time I became a fan of their Cab (Santa Barbara!) and Côte Blonde, which is a Syrah with a little Viognier.

WORKMAN/AYER
“De Facto” Red Wine, Central Coast 2012
“Ipso Facto” Viognier, Central Coast 2014

Wonderful reconnecting with Michel Ayer – first met and tasted with this cool winemaker at a Garagiste event in Union Station – his wines are always so wonderfully balanced. This time the Viognier was lovely, no high acid to take over, just brilliant fruit that had benefitted by stainless steel and no malolactic fermentation. The Red blend was all chocolate and violet. Need to order both.

YATES FAMILY
Viognier, Mount Veeder 2014
‘Fleur de Veeder’ Merlot, Mount Veeder 2013
‘Cheval’ Cabernet Franc, Mount Veeder 2013
‘Alden Perry Reserve’ Red Blend, Mount Veeder 2012

Paso Robles CAB Collective

I have to admit that this was my all-time favorite table. Love that the Cab Collective members sent their best bottles for sampling.

Adelaida
Viking Red Wine 2013 – Quite well done, liked the dry finish.

Ancient Peaks
Cabernet Sauvignon 2014

Calcareous
Signature Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 – Lots of chocolate layers to enjoy.

Cass
Signature Cabernet 2013

Chateau Margene
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles 2013 – I had met Michael Mooney a few years back, and then again when the Cab Collective had just begun. He impressed me when he showed a map of where he sourced his grapes – throughout many sub-AVAs of Paso – and at this tasting I learned, from his son Jon, that they have removed some old vineyards and planted their own. So soon we will be seeing a Chateau Margene Estate wine. The Cab today was perfectly balanced, with nice dark notes on the back palate for the finish.

DAOU
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles 2013 – Who isn’t a fan of DAOU? This reserve Cab was all tobacco, dark and dry and good to go.

Eberle
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles 2013

J Lohr
Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles 2013 – Thanks again for another great Hilltop Cab! Bringing on the spice and the fruit, I was ready!

San Antonio
San Simeon Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles 2012

Sextant
Kamal, Paso Robles 2013 – a very well done Paso blend.

The Farm Winery
LPF 2012

Vina Robles
Suendero 2012 – Big, just the way I like it, thanks again to winemaker Kevin Willenborg.

Monterey County Vintners & Growers Association

I skipped this section as I had been to Carmel tasting not too long ago.

Blair Estate
Chardonnay, Delfina’s Vineyard, Arroyo Seco 2013
Rose of Pinot Noir, Delfina’s Vineyard, Arroyo Seco 2014
Pinot Noir, Delfina’s Vineyard, Arroyo Seco 2012

Carmel Ridge Winery
Merlot, Monterey County 2012
Chardonnay, Napa Valley 2013
Pinot Noir, Sonoma 2012

Carmel Road
Un-Oaked Chardonnay 2014
Barrymore Pinot Grigio 2014
Drew’s Blend Pinot Noir 2013

Cima Collina
Antle Chalone Pinot Blanc 2013
Lockwood Oaks Meritage San Antonio Valley 2010
Antle Chalone Pinot Noir 2011

De Tierra Vineyards
Vindegard Chardonnay, De Tierra Vineyards 2013
Russell Estate Pinot Noir, De Tierra Vineyards 2012
Russell Estate Pinot Noir Mesa Del Sol Syrah 2013

Scheid Vineyards
Metz Road Chardonnay 2013
Reserve Monterey Pinot Noir 2012
VDR 2013

Wrath
‘Fermata’ Chardonnay 2013
‘Tondre’ Grapefield Pinot Noir 2013
KW Ranch Syrah 2013

Perlis Picks: The Garagiste Festival in Glendale (Part Two)

July 27, 2019 by Michael Perlis

Last week, I wrote about the seminar that Karen and I attended at the latest Garagiste Festival in Glendale. Part 2 is about the other wines we tasted.

The grand tasting featured over 50 wineries from all over California, 23 of which also poured the previous evening at the Rare & Reserve kick-off party – shout out to Fired Up Chef Services for the great BBQ buffet dinner that accompanied this.

Here are the wineries that stood out to us. I’ve also added a few comments in brackets. We didn’t taste everything, so not being marked as a favorite isn’t a sign of disrespect. And in some cases we only tasted at a winery’s table during the Rare and Reserve tasting and if so that is indicated as well.

13^th & Third Wines – Paso Robles

2018 Rose of Grenache

2017 Lily (blend of Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Viognier, Picpoul)

2015 NMR (blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre)

[Hard to go wrong when the winemaker is Don Burns of Turtle Rock and Saxum.]

Aldina Vineyards – Sonoma

2015 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

Angeleno Wine Co. – Los Angeles

2018 Super Bloom Verdejo, Clay Station

2018 Meadow Rose, Terra Alta

2017 Zanja Madre (Grenache, Tempranillo), Alonso Family Vineyard

2017 Syrah, Alonso Family Vineyard

[As I mentioned in the segment about the seminar and in a previous article, I’m a big fan of what this winery is doing in downtown LA.]

Ascension Cellars – Paso Robles

2015 Ascendance Cab/Merlot [from the R&R tasting]

Bevela Wines – Santa Barbara

2018 White Lotus Grenache Blanc [from the R&R tasting]

Bodega de Edgar – Paso Robles

2015 Gran Reserva Tempranillo [from the R&R tasting]

Byron Blatty Wines – Los Angeles

2016 Evenfall (Tempranillo, Petite Sirah and Merlot)

2015 Ghost Cat (Syrah, Cab Sauv, Cab Franc and Merlot)

[both from the R&R tasting]

Cavaletti Vineyards – Santa Barbara / Los Angeles

2018 Alicante Bouschet – Barrel Sample

2017 Vigneron Reserve Syrah/Cabernet

2018 The 109 Mile Rose (Tempranillo, Grenache)

2017 Sangiovese

2017 Rancho Baila Sol Field Blend

[So impressed with everything from this winery.]

Deno Wines – Paso Robles

2010 Two Bills Zin-Grenache

2009 Paso Robles GSM

2017 Arneis, El Pomar District

2016 Estate Grenache

2016 Estate GSM

2014 Estate GSM

[These tasted like old school Paso Robles to me. I don’t mean big over-the-top wines. They brought back memories – in a good way – of visiting before things got so crowded. They have a tasting room in Templeton now, which also reminds me of old school Paso.]

DeWitt Vineyard – Sierra Foothills

2016 Estate Syrah

2015 Estate Touriga

2016 Estate Tempranillo

[Really nice, fairly prices wines. Just disappointed their Barbera wasn’t ready!]

Dusty Nabor Wines – Central Coast

2014 Bolt To Wines Grenache

2016 Bolt To Wines Grenache Blanc [the richness of this wine was amazing.]

2017 Syrah – Ballard Canyon AVA

2017 Bolt To Wines Syrah

Ferguson Family Winery – Sierra Foothills

2016 The Phoenix Zinfandel

2016 Boomshakalaka Petite Sirah

Golden Star Vineyards – Central Coast

2015 Tempranillo, Paso Robles

2016 Syrah, Chavez Vineyard, Antelope Valley AVA

[I really am past due for a visit to this high-desert winery.]

Golden Triangle – Paso Robles

2015 Syrah, Willow Creek District

2015 Cab / Syrah, Willow Creek District

[Finally got to taste Garagiste Fesitval co-founder Stewart McLennan’s wines. And the good news is that he is opening a tasting room in Templeton.]

Hoi Polloi Wines – Central Coast

2017 Rose of Grenache, Adelaida District, Paso Robles [consistently Karen’s favorite Rose]

2016 “Blue Velvet” Syrah, Larner Vineyard, Ballard Canyon AVA [a consistently great Syrah from an iconic vineyard]

[From Garagiste Festival co-founder Doug Minnick and his partners; we are lucky to have this tasting room in the Santa Clarita Valley.]

MCV Wines – Paso Robles

2018 Pink Rose

2016 Petite Sirah, Rosewynn Vineyard

2016 1105 Blend

[I’ve been a fan of Matt Villard’s wines for a long time. Some big news coming from this winery so stay tuned.]

Oceans Churning Wines – Sonoma

2014 Chardonnay [from the R&R tasting]

Powicana Farm – Mendocino

2013 Petite Sirah [from the R&R tasting]

Record Family Wines – Paso Robles

2017 Estate Viognier

2017 Estate Grenache Rose

2016 Randy’s Red (Syrah, Grenache)

2016 Reserve Syrah

[The wines are made by Jeff Strekas of ONX, so of course they’re going to be delicious.]

Two Papas Wines – Santa Barbara

2017 Grenache Blanc, Saarloos Vineyard

2017 Grenache, Saarloos Vineyard

2017 Grenache, Thompson Vineyard

2017 Syrah, Thompson Vineyard

[I was eager to taste Santa Clarita local Rick Pratt’s wines and I was totally blown away by the quality.]

Two Shepherds – Sonoma

2018 Picpoul Blanc, Yolo County

2018 Rose of Carignan, Mendocino

2018 “Wiley” Carbonic Carignan, Mendocino

2016 Carigan, Mendocinao

[William Allen continues to make his delicious, convention-defying wines.]

Velvet Bee Wines – Santa Barbara

2018 Queen Bee (Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon) [from the R&R tasting]

Wandermust-Must Wines – Sonoma

2018 Verdelho [from the R&R tasting]

Zanoli Wines – Paso Robles

2017 Mourvedre, Glenrose Vineyard

2016 Syrah, Glenrose Vineyard

Congratulations to co-founders Doug Minnick and Stewart McLennan as well as Lisa Dinsmore (Event/Web Director) and Melanie Webber (Public Relations and Communications) for another great event. Their passion and hard work have really made the Garagiste Festival concept something special. We can’t wait for the next one.

Michael Perlis has been pursuing his passion for wine for more than 30 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 President of MCP Financial, which provides outsourced controller services. Michael can be contacted at michaelthezinfan@aol.com or mcpfinancial@aol.com.

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.

Perlis Picks: The Garagiste Festival in Glendale (Part One)

July 20, 2019 by Michael Perlis

Think about one of your favorite wines. What goes into your decision to make it your favorite? Is it the varietal? The region it comes from? The terroir? The year? The label? There may be multiple reasons. I that, at least for me, a big one is passion – the passion of the vintner, winemaker, grower, everyone who worked so hard to get that wine into the bottle for you.

And nothing speaks wine passion more than the Garagiste Festivals. We at Eve’s Wine 101 have a special affinity for them, having reported on the Garagistes from the beginning, including my interview with co-founder Doug Minnick before the very first event in 2011 in Paso Robles, which Karen and I also attended. Focusing on ultra-small (and then therefore ultra-rare) production wineries, the festivals have now expanded to four annual events – Paso Robles, Solvang, Sonoma and (conveniently for locals) Los Angeles.

We’ve definitely attended our share of these over the years. They’ve now had about two dozen events in total and the passion of these winemakers is clear. More so than with a large big-budget winery, the owner/winemaker typically has to handle all or most of the tasks of the winemaking process, sometimes in addition to what their day job might be.

By the way, you may have noticed the word “garagiste” being used a lot more lately; I sure have. The Garagiste Festival doesn’t own the term, it goes back to the originally somewhat derogatory French word for small winemakers. And I can’t say for sure that the increased usage of the term overall is connected to the success of the Garagiste Festivals, although I would tend to think so. After all, they were voted the best wine festival in America. So, if you want to be sure you are supporting the real deal, go to their website and sign up for their newsletters.

Karen and I attended the latest LA event, held at the Glendale Civic Auditorium. In keeping with the LA theme, the Saturday event started with a seminar presented by three LA based wineries working to bring back to LA County an industry that used to dominate the landscape in the days before prohibition and real estate development.

Hosted by Steward McLennan, one of the founders of the Garagiste Festival, the seminar presenters were Patrick Kelley of Cavaletti Vineyards, Jasper Dickson and Amy Luftig Viste of Angeleno Wine Co. and Mark and Jenny Blatty of Byron Blatty Wines. All three wineries get a significant amount of their grapes from Los Angeles County. The Blatty wines are made in the Santa Clarita Valley and Angeleno is in the process of finalizing its tasting room and winery operations in downtown Los Angeles.

Of course, it was a wine seminar, so there was wine.

Each winery poured two wines, in the following order, lightest to heaviest:

Cavaletti Vineyards –

2018 109 Mile Rose (62% Grenache, 38% Tempranillo)

2017 Grenache, Swayze Vineyard

Angeleno Wine Co. –

2017 Zanja Madre (Grenache and Tempranillo)

2017 Syrah, Alonso Family Vineyard

Byron Blatty Wines –

2017 Undertake (60% Zinfandel, 25% Petite Sirah, 10% Merlot, 5% Syrah)

2016 Pragmatic (90% Malbec, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot)

For me, the takeaway from these wines is that Los Angeles County is capable of producing a variety of styles of high quality wines. Truly something for everybody.

The winery owners all shared stories of trials and tribulations. Their individual stories varied, but they all included one common component – the challenge of teaching potential customers, retail stores and restaurants about the quality of wine coming from LA County. One might think they are fighting an uphill battle but they appear to be winning it; that takes passion! I expect the LA winery scene to continue to grow and prosper and I know of at least one cult-status winemaker who is planning to set up shop soon – more on this in a future article, hopefully.

Of course, the Garagiste Festival isn’t just about Los Angeles. The grand tasting after the seminar featured over 50 wineries from all over California, 23 of which also poured the previous evening at the Rare & Reserve kick-off party – shout out to Fired Up Chef Services for the great BBQ buffet dinner that accompanied this. More on the wines in Part 2 which will run on this site next Saturday, 7/27.