Vintage Eve Circa 2/14: Eve Reviews The New California Wine by Jon Bonné

September 5, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Nearly 300 pages of continuing education, that’s how I saw this book. I took diligent notes through to page 180 (below) of key items that I thought would be of interest to wine 101ers.

Jon Bonne, photo – KCET

The second section of the book, however, was very subjective as Bonné covered many popular California grape varietals, and growing areas, and then made suggestions – The Three-Bottle Tour being the narrowest view and his choice of Top Producers getting a paragraph or two. How can you narrow down the best Cabernets of California to three bottles or 8 wineries? Even with the addition of a “More Notable Wines” section, we only got eleven more Cabs.

So, are you going to stick to 19 wineries for your California Cabs? I think not. This was the theme throughout and all I could imagine were the thousands of hard working winemakers shaking their heads in disgust…and wondering how they will ever get their wine tasted. I, dear reader, plan to do my part and keep tasting. Some of Bonné’s suggestions, some of yours, and some that I happen to come across on my own. I urge you to do the same.

Notes from Bonné for Wine 101ers

Bigger isn’t always better. (I’ve had many high-octane California wines and am happy to see a return to less alcohol with good flavor and tannin structure.)

Terroir does matter. You can’t just plant any grape anywhere. California winemakers are learning by doing.

In the section “Searching for The New California” Bonné gives a respectful nod to winemakers off the beaten path of wineries we normally visit.

Readers will get a wealth of wine history – from prohibition, the Judgment of Paris, growers morphing into winemakers, phylloxera, current winemaking practices, through to Bonné’s list of current cult winemakers.

Find new ways to discover wine with destinations like the Lompoc Wine Ghetto for the Garagiste/Garage winemaker.

Wineries that are making more than one label so that people can enjoy both “table” wines as well as special occasion wines.

Comprehensive sections on each grape growing region, and what’s special about each, makes you feel as if you have seen the terrain yourself.

Color photographs throughout, though having them all captioned may have been more helpful.

Praise for THE NEW CALIFORNIA WINE:

“The New California Wine delivers some of the most insightful wine writing you’ll read anywhere. This is the real skinny on cutting-edge California wine from somebody who’s on the ground, knows his stuff, and could care less about offending the Establishment.”

– Matt Kramer, author and columnist for Wine Spectator

“An impeccably timed, beautifully written book chronicling a profound generational shift in California winemaking. Required reading for any sommelier, retailer, or consumer who’s left California behind for other pastures – it’s time to come home!”

– David Lynch, owner/wine director of St. Vincent Tavern and Wine Merchant and author of Vino Italiano

The New California Wine is the untold story of the California wine industry: the young, innovative producers who are rewriting the rules of contemporary winemaking; their quest to express the uniqueness of California terroir; and the continuing battle to move the state away from the overly-technocratic practices of its recent past. In this comprehensive guide to the new generation of must-know wines and vintners, Jon Bonné writes from the front lines of the California wine revolution, where he has access to the stories, philosophies, and techniques of top producers.

Well-Connected Author: As the wine editor for the San Francisco Chronicle, Jon has won a regional following in the Bay Area as well as national recognition as one of the most important voices in the wine community. He is very active on Twitter and has nearly 14,000 followers.

Winning Book Formula: The New California Wine will do for California what Vino Italiano did for Italian wines: rid the industry of its overly-commercialized image and introduce the public to the avant-garde winemakers who are making compelling–and better–wines. The New California Wine includes evocative, full-color photography, giving it the same visual appeal as the top-selling Secrets of the Sommeliers.

Featuring discussions on more than 600 wines and detailed maps of growing regions and vineyards, The New California Wine is a necessary addition to any wine lover’s bookshelf. Part narrative, part authoritative purchasing reference, it is the story of the winemakers who have changed the very face of California’s wine industry.

Jon Bonné is the wine editor of the San Francisco Chronicle and covers wine and spirits throughout California and around the world. Previously Bonné was lifestyle editor and wine columnist for MSNBC.com and wine columnist for Seattle magazine, and has written for such publications as Decanter, Saveur, and Food & Wine. His work in food and wine journalism has earned awards from the James Beard Foundation and the Association of Food Journalists. Follow him on Twitter @jbonne.

The New California Wine, Jon Bonné. $35.00 paper over board • 304 pages • 50 full-color photographs • 7 7/16 x 9 inches. ISBN 978-1-60774-300-2 • On-Sale Date: November 5, 2013

Lawer Estates to Construct an Art, Wine and Event Center in the City of Calistoga

May 31, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Calistoga, Calif. (PRWEB) – Lawer Estates, a sustainably farmed, limited production winery, has submitted an application with the city of Calistoga to construct an art, wine and event center located at 1207 and 1215 Lincoln Avenue in Calistoga. Lawer Estates expects to open the center in 2019.

Betsy and David Lawer started Lawer Estates in 2003. The Lawers are from Alaska and were drawn to Calistoga for its familiar small-town feel. Over the past few years, the husband and wife team began searching for a space that would allow them to expand their local presence. They were drawn to the Lincoln Avenue site by the beauty and significance of several historic Magnolia trees. The trees were planted to honor three of Calistoga’s WWI soldiers who didn’t make it home. Each man’s story carries a unique significance for the Lawers.

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Photo from the Lawer Estates Facebook page.

“As we were told, one of the young men was from Franz Valley, where we have our vineyard; one was from Calistoga, where the event center will be built; and one had previously left Calistoga and started a business in Alaska, but returned to town to enlist,” Betsy Lawer said. “With those connections, the property seemed like it was meant for us.”

The Lawers are adamant in preserving the magnolia trees and designing a center that enhances the corner lot and respects the scale of the neighborhood. Lawer Estates plans to hire locally for the design, build and day-to-day running of its center and has hired renowned Napa Valley-based architect firm Backen, Gillam & Kroeger to lead the design.

“There is nothing more important to us than supporting the local community, and we are thrilled at the prospect of bringing our family business to downtown Calistoga,” said Betsy Lawer. “My small-town upbringing taught me that relationships and the local community are paramount, and we will apply this to all aspects of the design and building of this project.”

Currently the two addresses, located at the south end of Lincoln Avenue, are vacant lots with mature trees and a rustic grass area. The center will draw pedestrians “over the bridge,” adding further liveliness and attractiveness to the south end business district. The lots are within walking distance of all local Calistoga hotels, restaurants and bed-and-breakfasts. The Lawer family intends the center to be a showcase for their limited production wines made from grapes grown with sustainable farming practices.

While specific design details are forthcoming, the initial design submitted to the city for approval calls for a tasting room, event glass roofed conservatory and retail space that is designed with respect to the scale of the neighborhood. The center will draw on local restaurants for catering services and plans to employ four full-time employees and 10 to 15 part-time employees, depending on customer traffic and the number of events.

About Lawer Estates

Lawer Estates is a family-owned, sustainably farmed limited production winery based in Calistoga, California. Betsy Lawer is a third generation Alaskan banker who has proven that helping people succeed in the community is not only the right thing to do, but is the right approach to business. Betsy and her husband David started their winery in 2003 with the goal of applying these core values to their family-run winery. David and Betsy who work closely with their experienced team, to produce limited production terroir-driven wines. For more information visit LawerEstates.com.

CASA DE UCO LAUNCHES SALES OF FULLY MANAGED VINEYARD PARCELS IN MENDOZA

March 25, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

The boutique vineyard and resort in one of the top wine capitals of the world now offers wine enthusiasts the opportunity to become winemakers in Mendoza, Argentina

Mendoza, Argentina—Casa de Uco, a family-owned vineyard and boutique resort spanning 800-acres in the Uco Valley, launched sales of its organic, fully managed vineyard parcels for wine enthusiasts from all over the world to fulfil their dreams of growing, producing and indulging in their own wine. In what is known as one of the world’s most prosperous terroir for growing Malbec grapes, Casa de Uco offers the opportunity to work side by side with its team of experts without the steep upfront costs of building a winery.

home-1 At the vineyard estate, part of the unsung wine region of Uco Valley and typically referred to as Argentina’s Napa Valley of 30 years ago, inspiring vintners can purchase one or more of Casa de Uco’s 80 plots of land, from half an acre and up starting at $45,000.

Parcel owners have a flexible level of desired involvement and can choose to engage at any and/or every stage of the process, which involves selecting the type of soil, grape picking and crushing, ageing the wine in a customized oak barrel and creating tailored names and labels. Meanwhile, Casa de Uco’s team of world-class expert agronomists and enologists take care of the maintenance, harvest, fermentation process, bottling and labeling as well as logistics of exporting the final product. The expert team is led by world-renowned Alberto Antonini, head winemaker and consultant, well-known known for pioneering Argentine Malbec wines’ international recognition and appreciation.

“Based on my 16 years of experience winemaking in Uco Valley, I can say some of Mendoza’s best wines come from Uco Valley, which is celebrated for its exceptional terroir for organic, premium wine crafting,” said Alberto Antonini.

The experience grants vineyard owners the option to take the wine home, sell it for revenue and/or include their personalized wines in Casa de Uco’s restaurant wine list.

They also receive an annual vineyard planning consultation with Casa de Uco specialists, a complimentary resort membership, complimentary stays, discounted hotel and dining rates and access to the resort’s cultural and outdoor amenities and activities.

The property, tucked away in the foothills of the snow-capped Andes Mountains, receives 300 days of sun and is organically managed under near-perfect desert-like climate, which is ideal for grape growing. There are eight grape varieties vineyard owners can choose from, including four reds and four whites.

“Eight years ago, my father and I wanted to build private residences in what was then untouched land in the Uco Valley until we realized that, like for us, winemaking is a passion for many, so we created a setting where we could share the winemaking passion with wine lovers from all over the world without the hassles that managing a vineyard entail, “said Casa de Uco’s owner and founder, Juan Tonconogy.

The property also launched sales of its 10 virgin plots among the vineyard for owners to purchase their own two-to-three-bedroom residential villa. The sustainable, turnkey villas boast unparalleled seclusion and panoramic views of the mountains and surrounding vineyards with modern yet relaxed furnishings. The villas are designed by renowned architectural firm Alberto Tonconogy & Associates, owned and founded by Juan Tonconogy’s father.

The self-sufficient villas boast green rooftops, solar and photovoltaic panels, geothermal energy in floorings and walls for heating and air-conditioning, and self-contained water and heating systems. Each site is separated by natural flora that provides maximum intimacy and most importantly, preserves the biodiversity and natural environment of the estate.

Villa and vineyard owners can take advantage of an array of activities at the resort, including parcel wine paring tastings through the vineyards, vineyard bike and horseback rides, vinotherapy spa treatments, yoga, net fishing, water rafting, vineyard star gazing, cooking classes, blending sessions and vineyard and/or mountainside “asados”, which is an Argentine BBQ cooked over open flames.

Contact info:

http://www.casadeuco.com/

+54 261 476 9831

info@casadeuco.com

Vintage Eve Circa Feb 2013: Mosel Riesling MASTER Class

March 7, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

The Invitation
A very special and rare lecture and tasting with Raimund Prüm, owner and winemaker at the SA PRUM estate in Germany’s Mosel Valley. SA PRUM ranks among the region’s top producers of high quality Riesling.

Come join us to learn about the history, geography, style and characteristics of Mosel Riesling. We will taste a special selection of classic wines during the class and a different selection at the lunch/tasting to follow.

Raimund Prüm, owner and winemaker of S.A. Prum

Ian Blackburn, our host from www.LearnAboutWine.com, introduced Raimund Prüm by stating that Prüm’s Rieslings were not “sweet wines” in fact when Blackburn had visited “the Mosel” he found that white asparagus was in season and was one of many foods that he was surprised that paired so well with Prüm’s wines.

“Forget everything,” began Prüm, “that you ever learned about Rieslings. Think of this as an outstanding wine grape – and we are going to take you by the hand and down to our cellar to show you what is going on there.”

Prüm’s family dates back to 1156 in the Mosel Valley, 90 minutes from Frankfurt, and Raimund Prüm made his first vintage on Christmas Eve in 1970 – an Eiswein (Ice Wine). By 1971, after his father passed away, Prüm found himself making wine full time. Forty years later Prüm has produced over a million bottles of wine from his 28,000 acres.

Prüm, with the help of a slide show, explained the terroir of the Mosel: Steep hillsides – the highest elevations in all of Germany at 900 feet – and the grey and red slate that can be found layered in the mineral-rich soil.

A notable Sundial appeared on one of the slides, the first one was circa 1842, which marked where the best Rieslings, his Rieslings, were grown. Now that sundial has been duplicated in other vineyards, denoting them as the finest.

The Tasting:
1. Wehlener Sonnenuhr Erste Lage* “Old Vines Grosse Gewachs Dry Riesling 2004

The palest of the line up with lemon, green apple, citrus, very smooth and balanced. The term “Erst Lage” on a label is their version of a “Grand Cru”.

Wehlener Sonnenuhr Erste Lage “Old Vines Grosse Gewachs Dry Riesling 2006

Honeysuckle, jasmine, sharper lemony taste, grass, slightly acidic, long finish.

Graacher Dompropst Grosse Gewachs Riesling 2007

Honeyed-grapefruit, white pepper, dried apricot, pear, a tingling finish and not what I considered sweet. An early favorite for me.

Urziger Wurzgarten Kabinett Riesling 2009

Green hay, a trail mix filled with flavorful dried fruit, tangerine, round and coating on the tongue.

Graacher Himmelreich Spatlese Riesling 2010

Vanilla, peach, like a 50-50 ice cream bar: orange sherbet wrapped around creamy vanilla ice cream, another interesting favorite.

Wehlener Sonnenuhr Auslese Riesling 2009

Candied ginger, pineapple, ripe persimmon and balanced with some spice on the back palate.

Graacher Himmelreich Eiswein 2004

Spice, dried apple slices, golden raisin, tangy edge.

Wehlener Sonnenuhr TBA 2005 *extremely limited and rare

Deep burnt orange in color, and from inches away I could smell orange rind and spice rack, getting closer I detected a silkiness, honey and those golden raisins again.

Conclusion

Balanced. It was the one word that kept coming up as I sniffed, swirled and sampled the Rieslings. And, apparently, it was on Prüm’s tongue as well. He mentioned all kinds of pairings from cheeses, salads, seafood, pork dishes, filet mignon to Thai food. “These are food friendly wines. Stop thinking red wine and red meat.” In conclusion Prüm said, “Someone once commented to me that my wines have too much balance. Is there such a thing?” No, thank Bacchus, there is not.

About SA PRUM
Family-owned S.A. Prüm, founded in 1911 by Sebastian Alois Prüm, has been in the hands of Raimund Prüm, head winemaker and Sebastian’s grandson, since 1971. Under Raimund’s leadership the property has earned a reputation as one of the most successful wineries in Germany’s celebrated Mosel wine region.

The Prüm family has a rich and ancient history in the mid-Mosel. Here they have owned vineyards in the towns of Bernkastel, Graach, Wehlen and Zeltingen since 1156. Today, the estate comprises 40 acres of vineyards planted principally with Riesling. Over 15 acres of S.A. Prüm’s holdings are located within the famed Wehlener Sonnenuhr (“sundial of Wehlen”) domain.

Named for the historic sundial painted on an outcrop of slate by a Prüm ancestor back in 1842, the incredibly steep Wehlener Sonnenuhr vineyard is a renowned source of what is arguably Germany’s finest Riesling. Here vines average 80 years and older and benefit from plentiful sunshine – a critical factor in the world’s northernmost wine-producing country. The soil is comprised of layers of finely decomposed, mineral-rich blue slate.

Underneath, deep-lying aquifers provide the vines with adequate water during dry periods.

S.A.Prüm is a founding member of the Association of German Premium Wineries (VDP), a consortium of Germany’s top producers. Raimund Prüm employs organic fertilization, hand-picking and strict yield control to ensure the utmost quality. Day-to-day operations at S.A. Prüm are a family effort. Daughter Saskia Andrea (another S.A. Prüm) is integrally involved and after working at top wineries around the world, is poised to take over the reins from her father. Jennifer, Raimund’s second daughter, is involved in the administrative side of the business.

www.sapruem.com or www.PalmBay.com

HALL’s Cabernet Cookoff Back for Star-Studded 8th Year

March 6, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

The HALL Cabernet Cookoff will return for its eighth year on Saturday, April 29 at HALL St. Helena from 11a.m. to 2p.m. Hosted by Vintner Kathryn Hall and HALL Wines, the annual event will feature an impressive lineup of renowned Chef teams vying for a chance to win proceeds for a charity of their choice by participating in a food and wine pairing competition. 100% of ticket proceeds benefit Napa Valley non-profit organizations.

Kathyrn Hall

This event brings out the most enthusiastic crowd, says Vintner Kathryn Hall. Guests get to enjoy delicious food while sipping on HALL Cabernet and take part in a food and wine competition. Chef teams all bring their A-game and a serious competition ensues its exciting to know that Napa Valley charities are the beneficiaries of all of it.

Chef Teams present perfectly paired seasonal bites with HALL Cabernet to an all-star panel of celebrity Judges who vote for the top dish. Chef teams are also judged by the guests in attendance who select the top two pairings for the title of Peoples Choice Award.

Participating Chef teams include The Grill at Meadowood, One Market, Harvest Table, The Patriot, Ca Momi, Winery Chefs Napa Valley, Goose & Gander, Paula Le Duc Fine Catering, Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin BBQ, Shakewell Oakland, Harris Ranch, Feast Catering, Brix, Intercontinental Mark Hopkins, Karas Cupcakes and Sift Dessert Bar.

The 2017 panel of judges include Celebrity Chef Duff Goldman from Food Networks Ace of Cakes; 12-Time Olympic Medalist and Dancing with the Stars Alumni, Natalie Coughlin; Wine Enthusiast Critic, Virginie Boone; Michelin-rated Chef, Ken Frank of La Toque.

Two ticket options are available for guests: General Admission as well as a VIP Sky Loft Ticket. The VIP Ticket allows guests early access to a VIP Media Preview from 10a.m to 11am featuring all four Judges and Kathryn Hall sharing insight into what they will be looking for in a food and wine pairing dish during the event. The VIP Sky Loft Ticket also includes full access to the historic Bergfeld Building during the entire event featuring HALL Artisan Cabernets, hosted small bites, and cheese boards prepared by Cypress Grove.

Additionally, KVONs 99.3 The Vine will be broadcasting live during the event and feature real time interviews with Chef teams, guests and non-profit organizations with on-air personality, Bob St. Laurent.

Saturday, April 29, 2017
10a.m. 11a.m. (Media/VIP Ticket Preview feat. Kathryn Hall + Judges)
11a.m. 2p.m. (Main Event)

HALL St. Helena The Great Lawn
401 St. Helena Hwy. S
St. Helena, CA 94574
(707) 967-2626

TICKETS:
General Admission: $90 (Early Bird Ticket: $80 before 3/31/2017)
VIP Sky Loft: $150 (Includes Media/VIP Preview)
Tickets Available: www.hallwines.com/cabernetcookoff

The 2016 HALL Cabernet Cookoff drew more than 750 attendees for a sold-out crowd and raised $59,000 for local charities. The 2016 Judges took on the impressive task of choosing a runner-up and first place winner from dishes like Cherry Marinated Skirt Steak with Broccolini, Point Reyes Blue, Chive Blossom or Black Currant and Rose Macaroon with HALL Cabernet infused Geleé. Mark Dommen from One Market Restaurant in San Francisco took first place with his mouth-watering Pancetta Wrapped Passmore Ranch Sturgeon Du Puy Lentils, Smoked Garlic, Thyme Jus benefiting non-profit Collabria Care of Napa. CaMomi placed runner-up with a delectable Heirloom Pork & Veal Agnolotti, Savoy Cabbage, Napa Valley Cabernet Pan Jus and Parmigiano Reggiano aiding the organization Do It For The Love of Napa. Restaurants also had the opportunity to raise money for their charity through Peoples Choice, a voting system with corks serving as the tallies. First place for Peoples Choice was Napa restaurant, Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin BBQ, preparing Fried Chicken with Spring Succotash with the winnings benefiting Napa Humane. Paula LeDuc Fine Catering of San Francisco took runner up of Peoples Choice with the HALL Cabernet Roasted Strawberries with White Chocolate Crumble and Mascarpone Cream, partnering with non-profit St. Helena Hospital.

Since inception in 2011, the HALL Cabernet Cookoff has raised $300,000 for Napa Valley charities. For more information, please visit www.hallwines.com/cabernetcookoff or via social channels using #cabernetcookoff.

ABOUT HALL:
HALL produces critically acclaimed artisan Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, available to taste and buy at two properties in Napa Valley as well as at hallwines.com. Owned by Craig and Kathryn Hall, its vineyard collection features seven estate vineyards, of which five are California Certified Organic (CCOF). Each vintage, Vice President of Winemaking, Steve Leveque crafts distinct Cabernet Sauvignon wines which demonstrate the unique characteristics and diversity of Napa Valley terroir. HALLs wine portfolio includes three 100 point scores given by critic Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate. These wines included its 2013 Rainin Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013 Exzellenz Cabernet Sauvignon and 2010 Exzellenz Red Wine. HALL also earned the #2 spot in Wine Spectators Top 100 for its 2008 Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon. Since the first vintage in 2002, over 75 HALL wines have earned 95 point and above scores. The HALL St. Helena winery was the first LEED® Gold Certified Winery in the State of California in 2009 and earned another LEED® Gold certification for its high tech production facility and Tasting Room in 2014. HALLs partner winery, WALT, known for producing premier Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from distinctive vineyards, is located in Sonoma, California. For more information about HALL, please visit www.hallwines.com, @hallwines, or by calling 707.967.2626.

SommCon San Diego Registration Now Open (For wine enthusiasts too!)

October 2, 2016 by evebushman Leave a Comment

SommCon^® Returns To San Diego Featuring Over 40 Educational Seminars, Certification Opportunities, Tasting Events and More This November 16-19, 2016

San Diego, CA – This fall, SommCon^® returns to San Diego bringing together professionals of all levels to discuss, develop and lead the conversation on the business of wine. Held November 16-19, 2016 at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina, SommCon’s^® education is built by some of today’s most influential palates for trade professionals and serious enthusiasts who have a passion for wine and spirits and an unyielding quest for knowledge.

Boasting over 40 sessions, attendees learn and taste alongside the industry’s best and brightest through keynote sessions and educational classes complete with networking opportunities, a trade-only tasting and expo.

The conference begins on Wednesday, November 16 with professional certification opportunities including the WSET (Wine & Spirits Education Trust) Level 1 Award in Wine offered by the Neptune School of Wine, as well as Certified Cicerone®, the second level of certification through the Cicerone Certification Program.

The main conference is held Thursday, November 17 and Friday, November 18, and includes in-depth sessions led by industry thought leaders, round-table discussions, regional explorations, and The Trade Tasting at SommCon^®, featuring over 100 wineries, breweries, spirit purveyors, and service industry brands. SommCon^® concludes on Saturday, November 19 at the San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival’s Lexus Grand Tasting – Southern California’s most exciting weeklong epicurean experience.

Young professionals under the age of 30 who have a passion for entering a profession in the wine industry or expanding their knowledge can apply to receive free conference registration through the Young Leader’s Summit Scholarship. Applications are due by September 15, 2016 and can be found here.

Over 40 sessions will be offered at this year’s conference, including:

The Nightmare Scenario, Dealing With a Difficult Guest – Through specific technics, humor and a sense of resolution, join a panel of experienced professionals as they navigate between some of the ways they have dealt with the nightmare scenario. Presenter: Eric Entrikin, Master Sommelier, Instructor and Examiner, Court of Master Sommeliers (Thursday, November 17 and Friday, November 18)

Re-Discover Bordeaux – This session looks at the current generation of winegrowers in Bordeaux. Take a tour across the different appellations of Bordeaux, learn their stories and taste their wines. Presenters: Mary Gorman, Master of Wine; Ira Norof, CSE, CWE, Director of Education and Events, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits; Lindsay Pomeroy, BA, WSET Diploma, CWE, FWD, Owner and Chief Wine Educator, Wine Smarties (Thursday, November 17)

Digging Into Unique Terroir Presented by The SOMM Journal – This panel features representatives from unique appellations in Navarro, Spain; Alto Adige, Italy; The Veneto, Italy and Portugal. Taste two wines that best tell the story of each distinct terroir. Presenter: Eric Hemer, Master Sommelier, Master of Wine, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits (Thursday, November 17)

Hungarian Furmint: Ancient Grape, Modern Wines – Previously known for its sweet Aszú wines, the Tokaj region is now introducing dry Furmint wines to the US Market. Discover Hungary’s flagship grape variety and the versatility of the Furmint grape’s range of styles and expressions. Presenter: Tim Gaiser, Master Sommelier, Wine Educator (Thursday, November 17)

Blind Taste With The Masters – Join world-renowned Master Sommeliers, Masters of Wine and San Diego’s brightest somms as they battle it out in the ultimate blind tasting challenge through an exciting tasting experience of six wines. Panelists: Vary each day (Thursday, November 17 and Friday, November 18)

History of Craft Beer: Ancient To The Present – Learn how beer influenced the start of human civilization, gave power to religion, and was at the forefront of the industrial revolution. Discuss beer post prohibition and the rise of craft beer, and hear from the experts on what the future holds. Moderator: Maurice DiMarino, Level Two Masters Guild of Sommeliers, Wine Director, Island Prime. Presenters: George Thornton, Co-Founder, Home Brewing Co.; Greg Koch, CEO and Co-Founder, Stone Brewing; Mark Weslar, Vice President of Marketing, Karl Strauss Brewing Company; Jennifer Glanville, Brewer and Director of Brewery Programs, Samuel Adams, and Brandon Hernandez, Societie Brewery (Thursday, November 17)

The Role of Viticulture in the Evolution of Napa Valley Wines – There has been much said about the roles of critics and winemakers in the changes in Napa Valley Wines over the last four decades. As truly great wines reflect the origins of the vineyard, the evolution of Napa Valley winemaking can also be understood by examining changes in vineyard practices. Explore Napa Valley wines through the lens of viticulture with an engaging panel and tasting Presenter: Jon Ruel, Chief Executive Officer, Trefethen Family Vineyards (Thursday, November 17)

Extraordinary Tuscan Experience – Join Castello Banfi third generation Family Proprietor, Cristina Mariana-May and Master Sommelier, Fred Dame as they unveil the release of the 2010 Brunello Riservas from Castello Banfi and taste through the next generation of Banfi Wines. Presenters: Fred Dame, Master Sommelier, American Wine & Spirits, Cristina Mariani-May, Family Proprietor, Castello Banfi (Friday, November 18)

Diversity of Pinot Noir Within the Russian River Valley – This guided tasting examines the different nuances of the microclimates and soils that result in the diverse Russian River Valley Pinot Noir terroir. Presenters: Brad Alper, Winegrower, Square Peg; Guy Davis, Founder, Farmer, Winemaker, Davis Family; Bryan Kvamme, Winemaker, Martinelli; Boyd Morrison, Winemaker, MacMurray Estate Vineyards, and Jim Pratt, Winegrower, MacPhail (Friday, November 18)

Alsace Rocks: Exploring The Region’s Grand Crus – This session explores Alsace’s varied and unique terroir and its impact on the region’s famous expressive wines. With 13 distinct soil types in Alsace, the region has the most varied terroir in all of France. Presenter: Josh Nadal, Beverage Director, NoHo Hospitality Group (Friday, November 17)

SommCon^®is only open to 300 registrants, and for those in attendance, there are several ways to participate, with conference packages and single day passes available.

Full Conference Package (November 17- 18) – Full conference access with choice of seminars, Continental Breakfast and Roundtable Discussions, Keynote Speaker and Winemaker Lunch, Hosted Tastings, Winemaker Lunch, The Trade Tasting at SommCon^®, $365 before September 16

Single Day Conference Registration Package (November 17) – One day conference access with choice of seminars, Continental Breakfast and Roundtable Discussions, Keynote Speaker and Winemaker Lunch, Hosted Tastings, $195 before September 16

Single Day Conference Registration Package (November 18) – One day conference access with choice of seminars, Winemaker Lunch, Hosted Tastings, The Trade Tasting at SommCon^®, $195 before September 16

The Trade Tasting At SommCon (November 18) – Free for qualified members of the trade until September 1

Lexus Grand Tasting (November 19) – Trade tickets are $75 each, to qualify fill out the application here

Sponsors and educational partners to date include: The SOMM Journal, The Tasting Panel Magazine, Napa Valley Vintners, Russian River Valley Winegrowers, Wines of Alsace, Bourgogne Wine Board, Furmint USA, Les Vins De Médoc, Sta. Rita Hills Wine Alliance, Vins de Bordeaux, Society of Wine Educators, Castello Banfi, Rias Baixas Wines, Wines of Germany, Côtes de Bordeaux, Left Coast Cellars, Wine Spectator, Somm’s List, and Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits.

SommCon^® panelists, presenters and speakers include: Jesse Becker, Master Sommelier, Market Specialist, Craft + Estate; Amy Christine, Master of Wine, Black Sheep Finds Winery; Fred Dame, Master Sommelier, American Wine & Spirits; Erik Entrikin, Master Sommelier; David Glancy, Master Sommelier, San Francisco Wine School; Mary Gorman-McAdams, Master of Wine, Bordeaux Wine Council; Tim Gaiser, Master Sommelier; Eric Hemer, Master of Wine, Master Sommelier, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits; Geoff Labitzke, Master of Wine, Director of Sales & Marketing, Kistler; Joseph Spellman, Master Sommelier, JUSTIN Vineyards and Winery; Peter Koff, CWM, MS, President, Fairest Cape Beverage Company; Brad Alper, Winegrower, Square Peg; Bryan Babcock, Winemaker, Babcock Vineyards; Geralyn Brostrom, Italian Wine Central, Certified Wine Educator, Italian Wine Professional; Ken Brown, Owner, Ken Brown Wines; Randy Caparoso, Editor-At-Large, The SOMM Journal, Contributing Editor, The Tasting Panel; Jim Clarke, Marketing Manager, Wines of South Africa, USA; Guy Davis, Founder, Farmer, Winemaker, Davis Family; Maurice DiMarino, Level Two Masters Guild of Sommeliers, Wine Director, Island Prime; Wayne Donaldson, Head of Production, The Calling; Maureen Downey, DWS, CEW, Columnist, Wine-Searcher.com; Eric Flanagan, Founder, Flanagan Winery; Damon Goldstein, Truly Fine Wines; Randall Grahm, Owner, Bonny Doon Vineyard; David Hejl, Proprietor, Winemaker, Domaine Della Winery; Kathy Joseph, Proprietor, Winemaker, Grape Herder, Head Fiddle, Fiddlehead Cellars; Greg Koch, CEO and Co-Founder, Stone Brewing; Bryan Kvamme, Winemaker, Martinelli; Cristina Mariana-May, Family Proprietor, Castello Banfi; Dewey Markham Jr., DMj Wineworks; Meridith May, Publisher/Editorial Director, The Tasting Panel, The SOMM Journal, The Clever Root; Luke McCollom, General Manager, Viticulturist and Founding Winemaker, Left Coast Cellars; Boyd Morrison, Winemaker MacMurray Estate Vineyards; Josh Nadel, Beverage Director, NoHo Hospitality Group; Frank Ostini, Owner, Chef Winemaker, Hitching Post II; Lindsay Pomeroy, BA, WSET Diploma, CWE, FWD, Owner and Chief Wine Educator, Wine Smarties; Jim Pratt, Winegrower, MacPhail; Dlynn Proctor, Penfolds Ambassador, Americas and Canada; David Ramey, Founder, Winemaker, Ramey Cellars; John Rielly, Fine Wine Development, Manager-West, Terlato Wines International; Jon Ruel, Chief Executive Officer; Trefethen Family Vineyards; Richard Sanford, Owner, Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards; George Thornton, Co-Founder, The Homebrewer; Raj Vaidya, Head Sommelier, DANIEL; Rachel Voorhee, Director of Wine Education, Wine Director, Rodney Strong Vineyards; Mark Weslar, Vice President of Marketing, Karl Strauss Brewing Company; Jennifer Glanville, Brewer and Director of Brewery Programs, Samuel Adams.

SommCon^®takes place November 16-19, 2016 at Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina in San Diego, California. For more information or to purchase conference registration, visit: SommConUSA.com and follow SommCon^®on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Discounted accommodations are available at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina for SommCon attendees, make reservations here.

ABOUT SOMMCON^®: SommCon® is a leading conference and exposition for education and training of beverage professionals and serious enthusiasts. Held November 16 – 19, 2016, in San Diego, CA, the four-day conference brings together industry professionals of all levels to discuss, develop, and lead the conversation on the business of wine. SommCon’s ^® education is built by industry thought leaders for trade professionals and serious enthusiasts who have a passion for wine and spirits and an unyielding quest for knowledge. Attendees learn and taste their way through keynote sessions and educational classes, complete with a trade-only tasting and expo. SommCon^®is produced by Fast Forward Event Productions, an event management agency specializing in productions for the wine, beer and spirits industry, fastforwardevents.com

Nitpicking: Reducing Two Years of Winemaking into Any ONE Word

September 9, 2016 by evebushman Leave a Comment

I don’t have many pet peeves in the wine world as I still consider myself a beginner. And I rarely take on an opposing opinion with someone with a wine pedigree much more impressive than my own. But sometimes, argh, those with the long pedigree do and say things that they think they are somehow justified due to their education. And it can just be plain rude.

Cutting to the chase: I was at a large tasting, where the first few hours was set aside for media, distributors and a few sommeliers. I was chatting with a winemaker I knew, just about to taste the two wines he brought to share, when a somm (I knew this from the badges we all wore to show our affiliation) took a whiff and a taste and declared what he thought of the wine in one word: bacon.

I waited for more. The winemaker waited for more. I said to the somm that there was more in my glass than his, and it surprised me that that was all he found. I don’t even recall his answer, but to suffice it to say, he got my drift but didn’t have another descriptor at hand. He moved on to another table.

Lingering with the winemaker we discussed how hard it is to spend time sampling each wine offered at a large tasting, and to share our thoughts with the winemaker or winery representative just because there is so much to taste. However, keeping in mind that a winemaker has spent two years on each variety, tasting repeatedly, and then is giving it away for free to gain feedback as well as sales – then we that attend these tastings are doing a disservice, a rude habit that even I have been guilty of at times just due to the time I have at an event.

Here are some suggestions for laypeople at tasting events:

Express any and all positive feedback.

Acknowledge the work put into every wine, aka be appreciative of a talent we don’t share.

Thank them for the taste.

If you don’t have time to fully describe but you do like the wine, let them know that you will want to revisit the wine, and pick up one of their business cards.

If you can share what you think of the wine, beyond liking it, do. All descriptors are subjective. There is no right or wrong. Some words, like bacon, are common for Syrahs. But no one word can encapsulate a wine. The aromas flavors that you pick up can be influenced by terroir (soil, proximity to salt air, etc.) but are also due to chemical reactions. But mostly, what you get from a wine is due to the talent of the winemaker.

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. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Paso Robles’ Cabernet Sauvignon Gains Ground

August 13, 2016 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Paso’s Cabs are earning more accolades than ever, demand is spiking and wineries are planting more Bordeaux varieties than ever before.

Paso Robles, California – Paso Robles is earning its place as one of the world’s premiere producers of Cabernet Sauvignon and red Bordeaux varietals.

Not only is recognition among critics and sommeliers increasing across the board for members of the Paso Robles CAB Collective, Paso’s producers are planting more Cabernet Sauvignon than ever before, ensuring the region continues to position itself alongside the world’s top Bordeaux varietal regions.

More than 55 percent of Paso’s 41,000 acres of vineyards are made up of Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varieties.

In 2015 and 2016, roughly 3,000 new acres of vineyards were planted in Paso, of those, an estimated 50 percent were Cabernet Sauvignon, according to California Grape Field Representative Andrew Jones of Sunridge Nurseries.

The key to Paso’s success is the devotion of CAB Collective members who strive to craft true terroir-driven wines. While Paso enjoys mountainous slopes and an ideal grape growing climate—hot and dry days, and a cooling maritime fog that rolls in from the Pacific Ocean—it boasts incredibly diverse soils. No two Paso Robles vineyards are the same—a single vineyard block may contain several different soil types. The results—and what continues to win over critics and enthusiasts alike—are wines that are complex, approachable and age-worthy.

“Bordeaux varieties are the future of Paso Robles,” says Winemaker Ben Mayo, who recently joined CAB Collective member San Antonio Winery to help grow the winery’s investment and reach of its high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon program.

Not only are more Cabernet Sauvignon and red Bordeaux varietal vines going in, but vintners are putting the utmost energy and focus on what clones they introduce into their vineyards.

DAOU Vineyards & Winery’s Winemaker, Daniel Daou, for example, is experimenting with 13 different Cabernet Sauvignon clones in order to discover the full potential of the terroir on his 2,200-foot elevation property. “These clones are very qualitative clones that are low yielding and will produce blue and black fruit with a tannin structure reminiscent of a classic Bordeaux wine,” said Daou.

At the 40-acre Brecon Estate, custodians of likely the oldest major Cabernet planting in the Adelaida District, new plantings include the second only California planting of Malbec Clone 19FPS – an exciting clonal selection just imported from Cahors. The vines are of particularly low vigor and the fruit of very high quality. Combined with existing hill top Cabernet Franc and a new complementary planting of Petit Verdot, the whole Brecon Estate is now planted to Bordeaux varietals.

Ask any member of the CAB Collective what clones they are planting and you will hear many different answers as each are developing the best program for their vineyards. Calcareous Vineyard, for example, is utilizing what is known as a “field blend” in their recent plantings.

“As we expand our Bordeaux plantings here at Calcareous, we’ve accepted the fact that there are more unknowns than knowns regarding how to best express our vineyard with these varietals. One idea we attempted was to blend several clones into the same block. Talking with other members of the CAB Collective, everyone has their favorite clone. I decided to plant a mixture of clones 191, 337, and 412. By planting a field blend of multiple clones, we turn over a bit of control to the vineyard itself and provide the opportunity for something unique and unexpected to arise,” explained Calcareous Winemaker, Jason Joyce.

As the vine row count grows, coupled with the region’s cutting-edge innovations in the vineyards, Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon will continue gaining prominence in the wine world.

ABOUT THE PASO ROBLES CAB COLLECTIVE

Formed in 2012, the Paso Robles CAB (Cabernet and Bordeaux) Collective (PRCC) is an independent collaborative effort of leading Paso Robles growers and producers of Cabernet and red Bordeaux varietals specific to the Paso Robles AVA in California. The PRCC strives to promote the full potential of the Paso Robles region in producing superior quality, classic and age-worthy Cabernet and red Bordeaux varietals that compete with like varietals on a global stage to consumers and media worldwide. For more information, please visit www.pasoroblescab.com.

Santa Barbara Road Trip Los Angeles: Rhone Varieties

June 3, 2016 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Home to the only transverse mountain range in North America, the Santa Barbara County Appellation is made up of diverse regions and six AVAs – Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Maria Valley, Sta Rita Hills, Ballard Canyon, Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara and Los Olivos District. The region is also home to an unrivaled growing season with coastal influences, where pinot noir, chardonnay, syrah, grenache, roussanne, marsanne, viognier, sauvignon blanc, merlot, cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon and more thrive. (From the organizer, PleaseThePalate.com)

Eve and Michael Larner of Larner Vineyard and Winery.

As I’ve said before and will say again: One of the best ways for wine 101ers to learn about wine is to do a comparative tasting of the same grape or region. This time it was wine only from the Santa Barbara AVA, and to narrow it down further, I only did the Rhone portion of the tasting that included Viognier, Marsanne, Roussane, Counoise, Petite Sirah, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre (the last three often blended together and referred to as a GSM).

Wine 101 note: Rhone wines traditionally come from Rhone, France, where only certain varietals are allowed to be grown and turned into wine. Of course someone living in the Rhone valley could plant a grape that isn’t considered the best for the terroir (soil, climate, etc.) but they wouldn’t be allowed to sell it commercially.

Now, back to this stateside tasting. A few fun photos can be seen here of my afternoon at LA’s Republique restaurant tasting all things Rhone from Santa Barbara County. And my favorites of the day are listed below in bold, however, I didn’t make it to every table.

Participating Santa Barbara County Wineries

Andrew Murray

Beckmen 2013 Syrah, Purisima Mountain Vineyard, Ballard Canyon AVA blend of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre and a bit of Counoise.

Bien Nacido 2012 Estate Syrah, Santa Maria Valley.

Casa Dumetz with the lovely-as-always winemaker Sonja Magdevski pouring at least two that I thought were very pretty: 2014 Grenache, Santa Ynez Valley and 2014 GSM, Santa Ynez Valley.

Central Coast Group Project (CCGP) Really big: 2012 “Names” Syrah, White Hawk Vineyard, Santa Barbara County. And on the huge scale: 2012 “Barrington Hall Wine Dinner Special Cuvee” (so named after wine dinners Scott Sampler attended in college) GSM, Santa Barbara.

Fess Parker

Imagine

Jaffurs

Larner 2014 Estate Viognier was a wonderful mix of refreshing fruit and vibrant floral, and my fave white of the day. Followed that up with Michael Larner’s 2011 Estate Syrah, Ballard Canyon.

Margerum 2015 Riviera Rose, San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara County was my fave Rose of the day. But I didn’t stop there, I also enjoyed Doug Margerum’s 2013 Grenache, Santa Barbara County; 2013 Syrah “UBER”, Santa Barbara County; 2014 M5 Rhone blend of GSM, Counoise and Cinsault, Santa Barbara County.

Qupe

Saarloos & Sons

SAMsARA

Sanger Family, pouring their Consilience label, shared at least three wine I thought were great: 2013 Syrah, Santa Barbara County; 2013 Viognier, Santa Barbara County; 2013 Grenache Blanc, Santa Barbara County.

Stolpman, poured by Jessica Stolpman, had a perfect line-up – as I had tasted them all recently. But I still enjoyed tasting them all again, including the 2013 L’Avion, blend of Roussanne and Chardonnay, Ballard Canyon and the 2014 Grenache, Ballard Canyon.

Tercero was my first stop as winemaker Larry Schaffer was free when I walked in. Another I had tasted recently, it didn’t stop me from enjoying (again) his 2015 Mourvedre Rose, Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara; 2014 Verbiage Blanc blend of Roussanne, Viognier and Grenache Blanc, Santa Barbara County; and a lovely Verbiage Rouge red blend.

William James

Zaca Mesa is an old favorite I used to love to visit and I was not only happy to revisit, but to discover two new wines to enjoy: 2012 Z Blanc, Santa Ynez Valley and 2011 Mesa Reserve Syrah, Santa Ynez Valley.

Perlis Picks: The Other Wine Country Part IX, PETRICHOR

April 16, 2016 by evebushman Leave a Comment

PETRICHOR

We were finally ready for our last winery visit on this trip.

I had become fond of the wines of Petrichor when I had tasted them at Rhone Rangers tastings. Sadly, we weren’t attending the Rhone Rangers event in LA this past year, but since owner Margaret Foley and I had discussed the possibility of visiting her in Sonoma should we be in the area, this seemed like a great opportunity to do this.

And it certainly was…

“Petrichor” is defined as the scent of rain on dry earth. When Jim and Margaret Foley founded their winery in 2009, they were introduced to and inspired by this evocative term when their good friend artist Stephanie Gardner painted a series based on it.

I love tasting wine anywhere. Some wineries are in industrial parks, some just barrel rooms, some have beautiful tasting rooms. It doesn’t matter to me. But…tasting at the vineyard can really give one a sense of place. Certain vineyards convey this specialness to me more than others, as we were driving up the long winding road into the Mayacamas Mountains into Sonoma County’s newest AVA named Fountaingrove, I got that feeling we were going somewhere unique.

Planted on just two and a half acres, the eight thousand vines of organically farmed Syrah and Grenache are planted in volcanic soil and exposed to the weather from the North, West and South. The high elevation and exposure forces the vines to work hard, which helps to ensure concentration of flavors.

And if the unique terroir wasn’t enough, the Foleys have assembled an all-star team that pays total respect to the quality of the fruit and climate. The founding winemaker was legendary Duncan Arnot Meyers and the reins have recently been turned over to Megan and Ryan Glaab of Ryme Cellars. Lee Martinelli Jr. handles vineyard management and rockstar Steve Matthiasson is consulting viticulturist. [I make no apology for calling Mr. Matthiasson a rockstar.]

Up until recently, Petrichor made only one wine called Les Trois, a blend of two Syrah clones and Grenache that always impressed me with flavors that did not overpower the taster or each other but complemented each other beautifully.

The Foleys recently added two new wines which Karen and I, along with good friend Rick Fraga, had the pleasure of tasting with Margaret. The 2014 Rose is a 50/50 blend of Syrah and Grenache and they also now make a 100% Grenache. All three wines showed a great elegance that I associate with the Petrichor wines along with depth of flavor. Especially exciting to me was the Grenache, which had that perfect bite on the back palate that makes a well-made Grenache always leaving one wanting more.

As we walked through the vineyard with Margaret, it was evident this would never be a big commercial operation. The size of the property limits that, as well as the respect that the Foleys have for this place. Kudos to them for not only making great wine, but doing what they can to limit their impact on the environment. From the organic farming to the lightweight bottles and lack of foil around the bottlenecks, the Petrichor wines are truly all about the wine and the ground it comes from. Margaret told me: “The winery is powered by solar and we are electric car fanatics. I love delivering our wine in an electric car, it furthers our mission to tread lightly on our beautiful planet.”

Our visit to Petrichor was truly one of the highlights of this trip.

Our day of winery visits with Rick Fraga was done, but our evening wasn’t. We agreed to meet later for dinner at one of our favorite area restaurants, Bravas in Healdsburg. An added bonus was that Rick’s friend Sue Straight [aka the Wine Wench, check out her website or visit her at Trentadue winery] was going to be joining us. Sue has been working in the wine industry for almost 30 years and not only has an amazing amount of wine knowledge but a lot of great stories as well. Enjoying the Bravas’ tapas style dining and sharing tales and wine with friends new and old was a great way to end our Sonoma visit. We are looking forward to returning as soon as possible.

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