Top Rhône Producer Delas Frères Opens New Winery in Tain-l’Hermitage

January 13, 2020 by evebushman

TAIN-I’HERMITAGE, FRANCE (PRWEB) – Delas Frères, one of the northern Rhône Valley’s best producers, is excited to usher in a new chapter in its long history and announce the opening of its new premises in Tain-l’Hermitage. The project has included new facilities and tools essential to the company’s future growth and a new showcase site in which the Delas team will be delighted to relate the history of the company to visitors.

Founded in Tournon-sur-Rhône in 1835, Maison Delas Frères has constantly gone to great efforts to execute a strategy committed to quality and respect for the terroir. Delas Frères has been associated with the Deutz Champagne House since 1977 when it was purchased by the latter. It was given new momentum in 1993, when the Rouzaud family of Maison Louis Roederer, already the owner of several wine estates, acquired the two wine companies and entrusted their management to Fabrice Rosset, CEO since 1996. Under his management, and with the intention of taking the domaine to the next level of excellence, the company embarked on a long-term development program.

Over the last twenty years, nearly 30 million euros have been invested: harvest-handling facilities, vat room, high-tech equipment and new ageing cellars in Saint-Jean-de-Muzols, rebuilding of the drystone support walls on the Hermitage hills, replacement of 7,000 vines, consolidation of the vineyards with the purchase of several plots. In 2006, the acquisition of nearly 20 hectares in the Crozes Hermitage appellation took the total vineyard surface area now worked by Delas Frères to around 30 hectares.

Delas Frères has been historically located in Saint-Jean-de-Muzols, but in 2015, its 180th anniversary year, it acquired a property tucked away in the center of Tain-L’Hermitage. This would be the start of the next phase in the process of elevating the brand.

“Delas Frères needed a high-performing production tool that matched its ambitions and would allow it to deliver the purest expression of its prestigious northern terroirs,” said Fabrice Rosset at the time…. “and, at the same time, be consistent with the elegant efficiency of Deutz and the constellation of magnificent estates under the same umbrella” (Château Pichon Comtesse, Adriano Ramos Pinto, Domaimes Ott, Louis Roederer, Merry Edwards, Roederer Estate, etc.).

The new property, located at the foot of the l’Hermitage hill, now includes an architectural gem that lives up to the outstanding setting. The design and restoration of the facilities were entrusted to architect Carl Fredrik Svenstedt, a graduate of Harvard and the Yale School of Architecture, with a brief to respect the character of the original property and to set off the “terroirs of excellence.” In the prestigious Architecture MasterPrize competition this past October, the new winery was awarded Honorable Mention in Architectural Design and its architects won the Small Firm of the Year Award in Sustainable Architecture.

The spectacular building housing the new winery and cellars, which adjoins the former family residence and the new reception cellars, is impressive for its purity, precision and modernity. Only noble material – stone, glass and steel – has been used in its construction. The wall sculpture, created from 274 blocks of stone, seems to be almost alive with a rhythmic and harmonious undulation that appears to take the shape and mimic the Hermitage hills. In a 6,000 square-meter walled property, the venerable “Maison Delas Frères” now boasts a tailor-made, state of-the-art production facility.

In September 2019, the grapes from the northern crus were brought in to this new red wine winery in Tain-l’Hermitage for an emotional first harvest. The white wines and blends from the southern crus were taken to the Delas Frères site in Saint-Jean-de-Muzols which is still in operation.

The reception cellars, sheltered by noble stones that parallel the design around the winemaking operations, come at the end of the tour. This space is entirely dedicated to wine tastings and a retail area. It offers wine novices and wine lovers a chance to try, as well as purchase, the Delas Frères range of wines representing the finest Rhône Valley terroirs.

The Reception House, which was the former family residence, perfectly illustrates the contemporary nature of the project sought by Delas Frères with an interior design courtesy of renowned designer Julia Rouzaud. Its reception facilities include two lounges and a dining room. Eleven bedrooms for the use of Delas’ guests (partners, customers, VIPs, etc.) complete this space in which the Delas Frères team will be delighted to relate the history of the company.

Fabrice Rosset states, “We are delighted to have been able to make the most of this unique property, now practically an icon thanks to its history and its rebirth within the world of fine Rhône Valley wine. This will be the facility where we will be able to receive devotees of the brand and Rhône Valley wine enthusiasts, in style.”

The new winery and reception cellars are located at 40, Rue Jules Nadi, Tain-l’Hermitage, and is open Monday to Saturday from 9:30am to 12:00pm and from 1:30pm to 6:30pm.

About Delas Frères http://www.delas.com/en/
Delas Frères is a winery of tradition and renewal. Founded in 1835 in the heart of the northern Côtes du Rhône, the winery has thrived with the dynamism of its original founders and their heirs and more recently, the renewed energy of the Lallier-Deutz family, owners of Champagne Deutz. Delas Frères and Champagne Deutz were acquired by Maison Louis Roederer in 1993. André Lallier retired from daily winery duties in 1996, and Fabrice Rosset, a 20-year executive with Roederer, today leads both Delas and Deutz. Delas wines are crafted by a panel of experts headed by winemaker Jacques Grange. Together, the team makes wines that have been heralded for their intensity of flavor and excellent value. The wines are imported exclusively into the U.S. by Maisons Marques & Domaines (MMD USA).

‘International Volcanic Wine Conference’ To Be Held In Berlin, Tuesday May 26, 2020

December 26, 2019 by evebushman

NEW YORK (PRWEB) – John Szabo, Master Sommelier and award-winning author, together with Volcanic Wines International (VWI) is proud to announce the 3rd annual ‘International Volcanic Wine Conference (IVWC)’, to be held in Berlin, Tuesday, May 26, 2020. The event follows the highly successful conferences, held in New York the past 2 years, and Szabo’s acclaimed book on the subject, ‘Volcanic Wines: Salt, Grit and Power,’ published in 2016. VWI is honored to be working with Organize Communications, based in the German-speaking markets of Austria, Switzerland, and Germany, to help us coordinate and manage IVWC3 in Berlin.

The IVWC, going into its third year, aims to continue its mission of establishing a volcanic wine movement, and provide educational and promotional opportunities for volcanic wine producers internationally. The conference acts as a catalyst and facilitator, bringing together all of the world’s volcanic regions and wines, that while incredibly diverse, represent a unique category of wines produced under some of the most extreme viticultural conditions on the planet. The annual conference also aims to continue to establish the ‘Volcanic Wine Classification’ as a premium category of high quality, terroir-driven wines with a true sense of place.

This past year’s 2019 conference in New York brought together producers from all over the world, including Armenia, France, Germany, Greece, Israel, Italy, Portugal, Spain, South America and the US, helping raise the profile of volcanic wines. Exclusively for qualifying wine trade and media, industry professionals had the opportunity to sample wines from close to 70 wineries from 23 different volcanic wine regions and engage with some of the world’s leading volcanic wine experts.

“The Soave Consortium has always believed in the need of creating a specific category to identify volcanic wines and their unique characteristics,” says Sandro Gini, Soave Consortium President. “We are also excited to be joining forces with our neighbors in Vesuvio and Santorini for a joint cooperation in promoting volcanic wines in Europe and the opportunity to participate in the Berlin conference.”

The IVWC began with an opening presentation hosted by John Szabo and Benoît Marsan Ph.D., Chemistry Professor at the Université du Québec in Montréal. Szabo and Marsan presented the results of their joint research study related to minerality. “It was a terrific opportunity to take a deep dive into the complex interaction between vines and volcanic soils, both through tasting and talking with vintners from around the world,” said Tara Q Thomas, Executive Editor of Wine & Spirits Magazine. “The session with Professor Marsan, who gave us a crash course in inorganic chemistry, was an extra bonus, offering us a deeper understanding of the many ways soil chemistry can affect what we taste in our glasses.”

Regional seminars included “Earth, Ash and Fire: Three Decades of Galardi from the Roccamonfina Volcano,” sponsored by The Winebow Group; “Soave, A Volcanic Agricultural Heritage,” sponsored by the Consorzio Tutela Vino Soave; and “Vesuvius Lacryma Christi Stories,” sponsored by the Vesuvio DOP Consorzio Tutela Vini.

“It was a great event, offering insight into the world of volcanic wines,” said Tara Empson, CEO of Empson USA, which represented Soave producer Tenuta Corte Giacobbe Dal Cero. “The seminars tied together the many factors that help shape and characterize these remarkable wines. The grand tasting was diverse, as there were producers from many parts of the world, which helped attendees understand the similarities and differences of their wines.”

“It’s exciting to see how the volcanic wine movement — and the annual conference — continue to gain traction,” said John Szabo MS. I look forward to carrying on our mission to elevate the volcanic wine category in the eyes, and palates, of industry professionals as well as wine lovers at next year’s conference in Berlin.”

For more information and the latest updates, visit Volcanic Wines International’s official website, and follow VWI’s Facebook (Volcanic Wines International) and Instagram (@volcanicwines_intl) pages. Additional details regarding the conference, including confirmed participants and seminar schedules, will be announced soon.

About John Szabo
John Szabo is a Toronto-based author and wine critic, and in 2004 was the first Canadian to add the Master Sommelier credential to his name. He was named ‘Canada’s best-known sommelier’ in Meininger’s Wine Business International, and he is a partner and a wine critic for WineAlign.com and freelances widely. In addition to Volcanic Wines, Salt, Grit and Power, his book titles include Pairing Food and Wine for Dummies and Sommelier Management. John also works as a restaurant consultant, and speaks and judges internationally, when he’s not making a few dozen bottles of wine from his vineyard in Eger, Hungary.

About Volcanic Wines International (VWI)
The mission of Volcanic Wines International is to take the leading role in defining and establishing a Volcanic Wine Movement, and to provide educational and promotional opportunities for volcanic wine producers internationally. Volcanic Wines International also plans to establish the volcanic wine brand as a premium category of high quality wines with a true sense of place.

Gambero Rosso ‘Winery of the Year 2020’ Honor Goes to Frescobaldi Toscana

December 19, 2019 by evebushman

NEW YORK (PRWEB) – The renowned wine producer Frescobaldi Toscana has been named ’Winery of the Year’ by Gambero Rosso, Italy’s premier authority on wine, and recently joined the Altagamma Foundation, a cooperative of Italian luxury brands across multiple sectors. These recognition’s confirm Frescobaldi’s commitment to high quality production and excellence.

Established in 1986, Gambero Rosso is the world’s most trusted resource on Italian food, wine and travel. Frescobaldi was recognized for its historic legacy for quality wine production, strategic expansions and continued growth across all their estates.

“We bestowed the award of “Winery of the Year” upon Frescobaldi for its success in combining tradition with strategic vision and innovation, for its unceasing drive for absolute excellence and uncompromising attention to detail, from the selection of the grapes to label design,” said the official statement by Marco Sabellico, Gambero Rosso Guide Editor, together with English Language Editor Gianni Fabrizio. They continue, “Their commitment, particularly obvious in recent years, to bringing out the unique qualities of each terroir and the professionalism of their staff find few peers in the Italian and international wine world. Here are a family and a winery that are worthy ambassadors to the world of Italy and its values”.

“Our philosophy, Cultivating Toscana Diversity, means that each of our wine estates has its own managing director, and its own winemaker as well, usually a young professional with international experience. Nicolò D’Afflitto, our winemaking director since 1990, coordinates all these operations,” stated Frescobaldi Group President Lamberto Frescobaldi. “Our unwavering intention is to showcase the talents, if you will, of every single terroir, and of every individual vineyard, assisting the vines, for example, to find their own balance, in natural processes that privilege the use of non-chemical fertilizers and grasses in cover-cropping. That of course also involves meticulously planned and executed winemaking efforts, all overseen by our winemaker and technical director, Nicolò d’Afflitto”.

Earlier this year, Frescobaldi Toscana joined some of the top luxury consumer brands and wine producers of Italy as a member of the Altagamma Foundation, where they represent the winemaking sector. Founded in 1992, the mission of Altagamma is to contribute to the growth and competitive success of Italy’s high-end creative and culture industries as well as the country’s economic development. Notable members include Gucci, Fendi, Ferrari, Versace, and Alfa Romeo.

“Entering Altagamma means that Frescobaldi joins the ranks of Italy’s finest brands”, says Lamberto Frescobaldi. “Those who share a common DNA which boasts of a higher level of performance and that elevated Italian lifestyle, which in a unique way marries together the culture and creativity of our Italy. We look forward to involving ourselves in the foundation’s shared initiatives and to dedicating our team to the mission of gaining appreciation across the globe for the world-class products of the regions of which we are ambassadors.”

About Frescobaldi Toscana | en.frescobaldi.com
Frescobaldi Toscana, the leading wine producer of Tuscany and one of the most historic and respected wine companies in the world, combines centuries of tradition with progressive winemaking techniques and practices. Founded in the 14th century and a supplier of wines to the royal courts of Europe for generations, Frescobaldi Toscana is still a family-owned company today. Comprised of seven distinct estates totaling approximately 1,300 hectares, Frescobaldi Toscana produces terroir-driven wines utilizing only the grapes grown in its own vineyards. The company continually upgrades and modernizes its grape growing and winemaking operations, maintaining a relentless focus on producing unique wines that express the individuality of each unique terroir from which they are produced.

Sequoia Grove Celebrates 40th Harvest with Sustainability Certification

November 28, 2019 by evebushman

NAPA VALLEY, Calif., /PRNewswire/ — Sequoia Grove Winery, a Napa Valley producer of Cabernet Sauvignon since 1979, is celebrating its 40^th harvest in a new winemaking facility in Rutherford, California. This family-owned winery continues to make significant investments in winemaking, vineyards and sustainability to craft distinctive, varietally-correct wines that are unmistakably Napa Valley.

Sequoia Grove Winery is dedicated to sustainable agriculture and has recently become certified in Napa Green Land and Fish-Friendly Farming for their estate vineyards. These latest certifications, combined with the winery’s recent re-certification as a Napa Green Winery, demonstrate an estate that is deeply committed to environmentally-responsible practices throughout its entire operation.

Sequoia Grove Winery is taking its environmental message beyond the winery by joining 1% for the Planet®. As a 1% for the Planet® member, Sequoia Grove Winery has committed to donating 1% of sales from its Vineyard Series wines to the nonprofit Save the Redwoods League.

“For us, the coastal redwood tree is more than just our brand icon; it’s a symbol of persistence, fortitude and interconnectedness,” explains Steve Bowden, Vice President of Sales & Marketing. “These magnificent trees represent a true sense of place along a narrow strip of the California coast, just like our Vineyard Series wines. We are proud to partner with these great organizations to protect and preserve habitat for endangered old and new-growth sequoia groves.”

From the very beginning, Sequoia Grove Winery was recognized as an innovator with a focus on quality. Early accolades included “Best American Cabernet Sauvignon” in the American Wine Competition for both 1985 and 1987. Fast-forward to today – the winery is still family-owned and continues to push the envelope in quality. Countless 90+ point scores have been bestowed upon Sequoia Grove’s Napa Valley and Vineyard-designate Cabernet Sauvignons and the 2015 Napa Valley Cabernet was a Wine Spectator “Top 100 Wines” award winner.

“We are extremely excited to be celebrating our 40^th harvest,” explains Rick Bonitati, President of Sequoia Grove Winery. “Over the last few years, the winery has focused efforts on improvements across all facets of the operation including precision farming techniques, viticulture, sustainability and the replanting of the estate vineyards. Now with the new winemaking and educational facilities, our dedicated team is even further inspired to continue our mission to produce wines of distinction and provide an exceptional Napa Valley experience for our guests. We’ve only just begun to see the results of this undertaking; the future looks very promising.”

The property improvements continue with a completely re-imagined educational facility and accompanying guest experience. Under the direction of Executive Chef Britny Maureze, the Sequoia Grove educational program provides guests with comprehensive wine and food pairing discussions, focusing on the versatility of Cabernet Sauvignon as a pairing varietal. With a diverse selection of educational experiences being offered, from the recently-added and highly-acclaimed “Terroir Tasting” featuring vineyard-designate Cabernet Sauvignon paired with cuisine, to the compelling “Cabernet Culinary Challenge” and classic offering of “A Taste for Cabernet,” visitors may choose from a variety of interactive educational sessions which pair Sequoia Grove wines with warm hospitality.

“No matter what we’re trying to achieve, the renovations and upgrades have provided our team with tools for us to succeed—be it winemaking, viticulture, sustainability or the visitor experience,” says Sequoia Grove Winemaker, Molly Hill. “To me, that speaks volumes about what Sequoia Grove Winery stands for.”

About Sequoia Grove Winery:
Established in 1979, Sequoia Grove Winery is obsessed with the details that go into crafting our Napa Valley wines and single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. Our commitment to quality starts in the vineyard; we grow the very best grapes in the finest terroir to form the foundation of our wines. Quality is intrinsic to everything we do, from winemaking to our gracious hospitality; it’s ingrained in our culture and the vanguard of our philosophy. At Sequoia Grove, we’ve been carving our own path for decades while never losing sight of who we are: rooted in history, guided by integrity, resolute in our values, and committed to the future. Learn more at www.sequoiagrove.com.

Find us on Instagram @SequoiaGrove

About 1% for the Planet®
1% for the Planet is a global organization that connects dollars and doers to accelerate smart environmental giving. It recognizes that the current level of environmental giving—only 3% of total philanthropy—is not enough to solve the most pressing issues facing the planet. Through its business and individual membership programs, 1% for the Planet inspires people to support environmental organizations through everyday actions and annual commitments. Their team advises on giving strategies, certifies donations, and amplifies the impact of the network. Learn more at onepercentfortheplanet.org.

About Save the Redwoods League
Save the Redwoods League is one of the nation’s oldest conservation organizations. Save the Redwoods League has been protecting and restoring redwood forests since 1918, connecting generations of visitors with the beauty and serenity of the redwood forest. Our 24,000 supporters have enabled the League to protect more than 216,000 acres of irreplaceable forest in 66 state, national and local parks and reserves. For more information, go to savetheredwoods.org.

Stags Leap District Library Wine Black Card Offers Taste of History

October 26, 2019 by evebushman

NAPA, Calif. (PRWEB) – Commemorating decades of winegrowing excellence and the 30th anniversary of its recognition as an American Viticultural Area (AVA), the Stags Leap District Winegrowers today introduced the Library Wine Black Card, a new program offering enthusiasts the chance to uncork rare Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignons. For the month of November 2019, cardholders will enjoy a sample of a vintner-selected Library Wine when visiting 11 acclaimed Stags Leap District wineries.

“We’re continuing our 30th Anniversary celebration by digging deep into our cellars,” said Nancy Bialek, Executive Director of Stags Leap District Winegrowers. “These wines are extremely limited – Library Wine Black Card holders will be among a very select group able to experience these selections. Our vintners will feature wines that showcase our appellation’s history, terroir and commitment to world-class winemaking.”

Known for powerful, graceful Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varietals, Stags Leap District was officially recognized as an AVA in 1989, and the region’s winegrowing roots date back to the 1800s. A “valley within a valley,” as it is often called, the District is bordered by the rocky hillsides to the east and the Napa River to the west. It was the first area in the United States to gain AVA status based on its distinctive soils.

Only 130 Library Wine Black Cards are available; they allow access to exceptional older-vintage wines at Baldacci Family Vineyards, Chimney Rock Winery, Cliff Lede Vineyards, Lindstrom Wines (at Heron House Yountville), Pine Ridge Vineyards, Quixote Winery, Regusci Winery, Silverado Vineyards, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Stags’ Leap Winery and Steltzner Vineyards (at Heron House Yountville).

The Library Wine Black Card is available now for $130. Cardholders and up to three guests can add a pour of an exclusive library wine to an existing tasting or tour, and can use the cards multiple times throughout the month of November. Regular winery tasting fees apply and advance reservations are required. Learn more at https://www.stagsleapdistrict.com/LibraryCard

All proceeds from the Library Wine Back Card will be donated to the University of California at Davis Nathan Fay Graduate Fellowship Fund. Established by the Stags Leap District Winegrowers in 2000 as a tribute to District pioneer Nathan Fay, who planted the first Cabernet vines in the region in 1961, the endowment awards a coveted scholarship each year to a graduate student in the School of Enology and Viticulture.

About Stags Leap District Winegrowers:
The Stags Leap District Winegrowers is a non-profit association of vintners and growers united by the mission of enhancing the reputation of the appellation and its wines and sharing its quality with the wine-loving world. The SLDWA is comprised of 17 wineries and 10 grower members. Wineries include: Baldacci Family Vineyards, Chimney Rock Winery, Cliff Lede Vineyards, Clos Du Val, Ilsley Vineyards, Lindstrom Wines, Malk Family Vineyards, Odette Estate Winery, Pine Ridge Vineyards, Quixote Winery, Regusci Winery, Shafer Vineyards, Silverado Vineyards, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Stags’ Leap Winery, Steltzner Vineyards, and Taylor Family Vineyards. To learn more about the Stags Leap District, please visit stagsleapdistrict.com or find the Association on Facebook.com/StagsLeapDistrict, Instagram.com/StagsLeapAVA Twitter @StagsLeapAVA.

Vintage Eve Circa 9/2016: Ferrari “Toast of the Emmys” with Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air

October 1, 2019 by evebushman

Ferrari Trento, the Official Sparkling Wine of the recent 2016 Emmys, celebrated their sponsorship of the 68^th Emmy Awards season with an exclusive lunch on Monday, September 19 at Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air. Ferrari has enjoyed a longstanding collaboration with the Wolfgang Puck restaurants, and the lunch was hosted by Matteo Lunelli, CEO of Ferrari.

Never having been to the Hotel Bel Air and arriving early, I snapped a few photos to show other newbies what the grounds looked like – complete with swans, foliage, dining rooms and even the ritzy ladies’ room. From there I entered the area of our tasting to meet our host, Matteo Lunelli, and other #LAWineWriters. We munched on appetizers, also seen in the short video, and sipped our first wine.

Tasting Ferrari Trento AOC – aromas and flavors separated by ;

2007 Blanc de Blanc Perle

Toast, grapefruit, pear, white peach and Brie; honeydew melon, lemon twist, grapefruit. 91 Eve pts.

2008 Perle Rose Trento (80% Pinot Nero, 20% Chardonnay)

Strawberry, cling peaches, raspberry, pineapple; raspberry, green grapes, lemon lime. 93 Eve pts.

2008 Perle “Nero” Blanc de Noir (100% Pinot Noir)

Cheddar, fruit cocktail, white pepper; same fruit profile on the palate, medium acid with a nice viscosity. 92 Eve pts.

2002 Giulio Ferrari Riserva Del Fondatore (100% Chardonnay)

Honey, marshmallow, toasted oak, bruised yellow apple, Botrytis feel; same apple taste in the mouth, followed by a bit of Brandy and steely quality. Was wonderful with blue cheese. 94 Eve pts.

What I Learned

In speaking of the Emmys Lunelli said that Ferrari Trento “brings Italian wine (and) the Italian lifestyle to an amazing event.”

Trentino is located in Northeast Italy, in the center of the mountainous Alps, one hour north of Verona.

The style of the wine is due to the mountain terroir, the Mediterranean climate during the day and the cooling at night.

Lunelli’s grandfather acquired the winery property in 1952.

The Blanc de Blanc obtained recent awards from Robert Parker.

About Ferrari Trento

Established in 1902 by Giulio Ferrari, Ferrari crafts bottle-fermented sparkling wines created with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes cultivated on the slopes of the mountains in northern Italy’s Trentino region, according to the regulations of Trento D.O.C. Ferrari is led by the 3rd generation of the Lunelli family, descendants of Bruno Lunelli, who purchased the estate in 1952. For over a century the winery has continued Giulio Ferrari’s uncompromising search for excellence in every detail, staying true to Trentino and its mountain viticulture in the pursuit of quality, and with an enduring commitment to sustainability. Profoundly Italian in craftsmanship and reputation, Ferrari stands apart as a symbol of the Italian Art of Living, earning the distinction of “Best European Winery of the Year” at the Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Awards in 2015. For more information visit @FerrariTrento or www.ferraritrento.it/EN.

About Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air, Fine Dining in Los Angeles

Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air features modern California cuisine with European and Mediterranean influences in a spectacular garden setting. Our chefs visit the farmer’s market every week and select the freshest, most seasonal items to utilize in our menus. Dine in the elegant dining room, on the alfresco terrace, or in the bar and lounge. Learn more about one of the world’s most esteemed chefs, Wolfgang Puck.

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 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.

WALT WINES ANNOUNCES OPENING OF NEW TASTING ROOM LOCATED IN DOWNTOWN NAPA

July 31, 2019 by evebushman

SONOMA, CA – WALT Wines, a leading luxury Pinot Noir producer owned by Craig and Kathryn Walt Hall, has opened a new tasting room in the Oxbow District of downtown Napa. The new location, WALT Napa Oxbow, marks the second tasting room location for the prominent, luxury wine brand led by General Manager Jeff Zappelli and Winemaker Megan Gunderson Paredes.

“Downtown Napa has an energy that ushers in a more urban experience for the new type of wine consumer,” says WALT General Manager, Jeff Zappelli. “We found an ideal Tasting Room location in the Oxbow District that is directly across the street from the Oxbow Market and CIA Copia. The location is walking distance to the Napa Riverwalk, Napa Fairgrounds, and a collective of tasting rooms, notable modern art galleries, high-end hotels and renowned restaurants. Expanding WALT from the tasting room in Sonoma to include a second location in Napa allows us to share our quality Pinots with locals, Bay Area day-trippers and tourists alike as this area is typically the first stop for visitors entering Napa Valley.”

The 1500 square foot indoor tasting room space features a three-dimensional, custom designed tasting bar comprised of an Italian-porcelain countertop, and the bar is illuminated with LED gold globes hanging above the countertop. The building was renovated with low energy lighting, and includes a series of landscape and structural upgrades to improve the energy efficiencies, beautify the property and reduce water usage. The Hall’s extensive collection of art compliments the décor and experience.

WALT Napa Oxbow has four tasting offerings for guests to experience including:

CURRENT RELEASE TASTING, $30pp

Guests will explore five current releases including single vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines spanning 1,000 Miles of Pinot, a concept designed to educate Pinot fans with vineyard sourcing and terroir.

PORTFOLIO TASTING, $30pp

Guests will have access to taste through all three HALL Family Wine brands including WALT Pinot Noir, HALL Cabernet Sauvignon and BACA Zinfandel wines in a tasting that highlights current releases for each varietal and background about the Hall family.

WINE & CHOCOLATE PAIRING, $50pp

Guests are able to indulge in the decadent world of wine and chocolate through a tasting experience that explores the senses through taste and aromatics. The experience includes six Pinot Noir wines paired with Kollar Chocolates, a leading luxury chocolatier based in Yountville, CA.

ROOT 101, $60pp

Root 101 is the signature food and wine pairing experience at WALT. This seated tasting includes six single vineyard Pinots paired with a seasonal, farm-to-table bite prepared by renowned Napa-based eatery, Carpe Diem. The experience aims to educate guests by exploring one’s palate as it relates to flavor profiles. Reservations are required.

The WALT Napa Oxbow renovation included a number of prominent, luxury consultants including:

Architecture: Jarrod Denton, Signum Architecture
Contractor: Frank Bourges General Contractor
Art Curator: Virginia Shore – Shore Art Advisory
Interior Design: Carol Padham, Padham Design

WALT produces single vineyard Pinot Noir wines from appellations stretching from as far north as the Willamette Valley in Oregon, through Anderson Valley, the Sonoma Coast, Carneros, Santa Lucia Highlands and the Sta. Rita Hills of the Santa Barbara County. WALT specializes in premier Pinot Noir and Chardonnay sourced from vineyards spanning 1,000 miles, a mile marking distance that coined the brand’s popular 1,000 Miles of Pinot concept.

For more information, please visit www.waltwines.com, follow on social @waltwines, or by calling 707-933-4440.

WALT: 1,000 Miles of Pinot

WALT specializes in premier Pinot Noir and Chardonnay sourced from the most coveted vineyards along the Pacific Coast, spanning 1,000 miles from as far north as the Willamette Valley to the Sta. Rita Hills in Santa Barbara County. WALT represents wines of a place – these special sites allow thoughtful viticulture to enable winemakers to create expressive wines that reflect the signature personality of each site. WALT farms three estate vineyards and partners with meticulous growers who aspire to share standards of quality. Owned by Kathryn Walt Hall and her husband Craig, WALT honors Kathryn’s parents, Bob and Dolores Walt, who were grape growers in Mendocino County since 1972 and nurtured Kathryn’s passion for vineyards and wine. WALT has two tasting room locations including one adjacent to the Sonoma Square in Sonoma, CA, and the second in the Oxbow District of downtown Napa, CA. Both Tasting Rooms are open to the public. For more information, please visit www.waltwines.com or by calling (707) 933-4440. @waltwines #1000milesofpinot.

Azuñia Tequila Shines with Top Marks in 2019 Ultimate Spirits Challenge

May 30, 2019 by evebushman

GLENDORA, Calif. (PRWEB) – The judges have spoken, and Azuñia Tequila once again has earned high marks for all its craft tequilas.

Azuñia Añejo was awarded the Chairman’s Trophy, the highest award a spirit can receive, with a score of 97 in the judging at the Ultimate Beverage Challenge 2019 Ultimate Spirits Challenge. The rigorous judging by the Ultimate Beverage Challenge team of experts, including renowned spirits authority F. Paul Pacult, who chaired the judging for the challenge, spirits writer and New York Times editor Clay Risen, and award-winning bar director Meaghan Dorman, provided the most professional and authoritative evaluation of spirits.

“At Azuñia, our focus is on sustainably farming the best agave and making premium quality tequila with authentic flavor. Our tequila is homegrown and handmade, crafted with care by the same family for two generations. We are incredibly proud of our team and the artistry that produces outstanding tequila year after year,” said Joe Giansante, managing director, Azuñia Tequila. “Our customers consistently tell us they love our tequila, and we are delighted that the Ultimate Spirits Challenge judges agree with them. This recognition is a well-earned nod to Azuñia’s tradition of presenting natural, organic products. We are delighted to add these accolades to our growing list of awards.”

Both Azuñia Añejo and Azuñia Blanco, which earned a score of 94 from the judges, were designated as a “Great Value.” The judges were impressed with Azuñia Añejo’s fragrance and flavors, with an “aromatic bouquet of tropical flowers, white cherry and grilled pineapple on the nose” and “candied mango, poached white cherries, and beeswax” through the finish. For Azuñia Blanco, they noted the delicate and citrusy taste as “punctuated by a distinct briny quality on the finish with more pepper and fruit.”

Azuñia Black Private Reserve received an excellent score of 90, which means it is highly recommended by the judges, who noted the “caramel, maple, and orange blossom… aromas, balanced by green chili and savory pineapple notes” and a spice-flecked, clean finish.

Azuñia Tequila is still glowing from the Double Gold “World’s Best” win from the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its Azuñia Reposado organic tequila, which only adds to the compliment paid to Reposado by the Ultimate Spirits Challenge judges, who called it “comforting yet complex” and “as radiant as straw in the sunshine in the glass.”

The Ultimate Beverage Challenge prides itself on a higher standard of evaluation for spirits, which translates into credible and relevant results for producers, distributors, and customers. The results of the Ultimate Spirit Challenge are counted on by the spirits industry to guide purchasing decisions.

And the Ultimate Spirits Challenge results aren’t the only good news to share. Azuñia Tequila also received excellent 2019 Wine Enthusiast scores. Azuñia Black Private Reserve earned a 93, while Azuñia Añejo was scored at 92 by Wine Enthusiast editor Kara Newman for the May issue of the magazine.

The 10-year old brand prides itself on staying true to its roots of farming the land properly, without additives, to produce the finest agave plants by a family owned farm on the slopes of Volcán de Tequila. This care for the land, for the people, and for the process is reflected in the multiple awards won by each of Azuñia Tequila’s products.

About Azuñia Tequila

Azuñia is smooth, clean craft tequila with authentic flavor from the local terroir in every sip. It is the exclusive export of Agaveros Unidos de Amatitán and its second-generation, family-owned-and-operated Rancho Miravalle estate, which has created exceptional tequila for over 20 years. Made with 100% pure Weber Blue Agave grown in dedicated fields of the Tequila Valley, we harvest by hand and roast the organic agave in traditional clay hornos to ensure authenticity and depth of flavor. We then finish with a natural, open-air fermentation process and bottle onsite in small batches using a consistent process to deliver field-to-bottle quality. For more information, please visit azuniatequila.com. For media inquiries, contact Jenn Barber, jbarber(at)azuniatequila(dot)com, 760-331-7914.

Vintage Eve Circa 5/2016: Elevating Zinfandel via Winela.com

April 30, 2019 by evebushman

Elevating Zinfandel was a tasting event I attended, once again put on by WineLa.com, in which the guest could not only sample an array of California “Zin” (the common abbreviation), but by doing so elevate the senses as only one can that attends a single varietal tasting.

Eve and WineLA.com founder Ian Blackburn

For wine 101ers I’ve found one of the best way to educate the palate is to either taste through a flight or more of the same variety, or in tastings organized by entities such as WineLA to taste similar wines, like their (now past) Burgundy vs. Pinot Noir on 5/28. The taster then has an opportunity to learn and then discern the differences in terroir (the common term denoting where the wine was made, so as to include weather, soil, terrain, etc.) as their palate adjusts.

Though host Ian Blackburn may have chosen the term “elevate” as he had chosen some of the finest expressions of Zin, the lesson is still learned:

WineLA has teamed up with some of the worlds best Zinfandel Producers to bring you “Elevating Zinfandel”! An event geared on showcasing the “Crème de la crème” of the Zinfandel community in one fabulous location. With beautiful breads and snacks provided by La Brea Bakery Cafe, you will have the chance to meet with the wine producers as well as purchase some of these exclusive wines.

For me in this tasting, though I bow to the wealth of experience tasting Zin that my Contributing Editor Michael Perlis has had as he is the true Zin Fan (as his email, MichaelTheZinFan@aol.com, suggests) and knew many of the winemakers Blackburn rallied for the event, the subtle differences I could pick out (dark fruit, earth, mouthfeel and spice) helped me select my favorites in bold below.

Wine List

Bedrock (most of these wines, all blends, started with at least 40% Zin.)

Evangelho Vineyard Heritage Wine 2014

Bedrock Vineyards Heritage Wine 2014

Nervo Ranch Heritage Wine 2014

Old Vine Zinfandel 2014

Beekeeper (Ian Blackburn’s own wine made alongside winemaker Clay Mauritson who was also in attendance pouring his own label.)

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

Robert Biale Vineyards (I’ve seen this label frequently during my staff lunches…brought by Michael Perlis)

Black Chicken Zinfandel Napa Valley 2014
Founding Farmers Zinfandel Napa Valley 2014
Grande Vineyard Zinfandel Napa Valley 2013
Old Kraft Vineyard Zinfandel St. Helena 2013

Brown Estates

Zinfandel, Napa Valley 2014
Mickey’s Block Zinfandel, Napa Valley 2014

Zinfandel Rosé 2015 (a crowd fave, and a great palate refresher for me.)

Chase Cellars

Hayne Vineyard Zinfandel-St Helena, Napa Valley 2013
Hayne Vineyard Zinfandel-St Helena, Napa Valley 2012

Hayne Vineyard Zinfandel-St Helena, Napa Valley 2011

Hendry

Hendry Blocks 7 & 22 Zinfandel
Hendry Block 28 Zinfandel
Mike & Molly Zinfandel

Jeff Cohn Cellars

Zinfandel, Shake Ridge Vineyard 2013
Zinfandel, St. Peter’s Church 2013
Zinfandel, Hayne Vineyard 2013
Zinfandel, Sweetwater Springs 2012

Martinelli (Another Perlis fave and was often covered for Eve’s Wine 101 by contributor Rick Fraga during his tenure with the winery.)

Giuseppe & Luisa Zinfandel 2014
Lolita Ranch, Russian River Valley, Zinfandel 2012
Vellutini Ranch Zinfandel 2012

Mauritson

Rockpile “Rockpile Ridge Vineyard” Zinfandel 2014
Rockpile “Cemetery Vineyard” Zinfandel 2014

Quivira (wine creek)

Black Boar Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley 2013
Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley 2013

Rafanelli

Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley 2013

Ridge Wines

Geyserville Zinfandel Blend, Alexander Valley 2014
Zinfandel, Dusi Ranch, Paso Robles 2014
Zinfandel Blend, Lytton Springs, Dry Creek Valley 2013

East Bench Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley 2014

Seghesio (A Wine Spectator previous designate of wine – a Zin – of the year.)

Cortina Zinfandel 2013
Old Vine Zinfandel 2013
Rockpile Zinfandel 2013

Turley (Not usual to find Turley “cult” wines at an event, or the lovely Director of Sales and Marketing Christina Turley pouring them, this was a real treat for me that I thoroughly enjoyed. And yet another wine that Perlis introduced me to years ago.)

Juvenile Zinfandel, California 2014
Kirschenmann Vineyard Zinfandel, Lodi 2014
Dusi Vineyard Zinfandel, Paso Robles 2014
Rattlesnake Ridge Zinfandel, Howell Mountain 2014