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

January 20, 2017 by evebushman

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

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

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

My Wine Ladies (in no particular order)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Last Supper with You, and, Circle of Hope (Vintage Beacon Circa 12/09)

October 7, 2014 by evebushman

Judy Penman, former to you but current for me, Woman of the Year for Santa Clarita, invited me to a recent Circle of Hope fundraiser at Vino 100 last weekend.

Judy always greets me with a big smile and open arms (this time she handed me her homemade pomegranate jam that I’m re-gifting in hubby’s Christmas stocking) as she sees me as her personal advocate.

The fact is that I’ve come to be known around town as the wine writer that will go to any event, and write about any event, that highlights a charity. (I have a tough time saying no to the wine part too…)

Judy Penman is in the center, wearing the long necklace.

The Last Suppers

On hand for this fundraiser, hosted by Lil Lepore and Shari Frazier, was Andrew Caldwell, author of The Last Suppers, a book that tells the real – and sometimes imaginary – last meal of renowned people. (Another gift for hubby.) The group had a few questions and Andrew had lots of answers.

What’s this book about? “You need three things to be in my book,” began the robustly friendly UK writer. “You have to die tragically, have been a headline maker and finish with a great meal.”

Give us an example? We all know who Attila the Hun was. But did you know that after he rampaged Champagne and left 500,000 dead, that their bodies were only covered with a thin layer of dirt and left? Their bones and minerals are what some people believe contribute to the great taste of Champagne!

What’s your “Cover” story? I had 6 different covers made for the book so you can choose which you like. One has Princess Diana with a frying pan while another features Napoleon with a rolling pin.

And where does wine fit in? I paired the wine with what I know about each character and have made and tested all of the meals that are featured in the chapters.

Where have you been, and where are you going? It’s been a great book tour. I’ve been to 36 cities in 39 days. By Valentines Day I am starting a series on the Discovery channel and will be on Letterman and Oprah.

Finally, why are you giving some or your profits away? When my mother got cancer it cost about 40,000 a month for her health care. (She passed away last year.) I wanted to give back, so I wrote this book and am sharing my profits with local non-profits like Circle of Hope.”

(My last supper would have to be: wine, paired with friends I take with me. Ones I met that day and enjoyed wine with were Christine, Elle and Steve.)

Vino 100

So, what was the wine for this event? L.A. Cetto Chenin Blanc, Baja; Sphere Chardonnay – Monterey, Ca.; Hope Shiraz – Australia; and McManis Zinfandel – Lodi.

“The white from Baja, very mild and nice,” stated Judy Penman. “But the best was the McMannis Zin for $14.” I agreed with Judy on the Zin and bought a bottle of that and several other gifties before I left.

Circle of Hope

The mission of Circle of Hope, Inc, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, is to provide emotional support and financial assistance for medical expenses for uninsured and underinsured individuals with Breast Cancer who live in, work in, or receive treatment in the Santa Clarita Valley,

Individuals with breast cancer are sometimes unable to work due to side effects of treatment. They may be unable to pay their normal bills due to the high costs of medications, co-payments, or insurance premiums. Some will not qualify for public assistance programs during cancer treatments. These financial burdens are devastating to individuals struggling with breast cancer. Patients should be able to focus on recovery, not debts. Circle of Hope wants to help.

Circle of Hope, Inc. believes that providing financial and emotional support will improve the quality of life and increase the individual’s chance of success in their battle against breast cancer.

http://www.circleofhopeinc.org/

Not a Vino to be Found at Vino 100 After July

July 2, 2012 by evebushman

News of Vino 100 Valencia closing at the end of July hit my inbox a little after lunch on June 29. Sharing the news with Facebook pals, and requesting their memories to share with Lil and Shari produced more fervor. Below you will find an excerpt from Lil and Shari’s final email, a lovely missive written by their former manager Joshua Patterson, and some heartfelt messages left on Facebook:

Dear Friends (excerpt),

It is with heavy but happy hearts that we say farewell. After six years of toil and tastings, Vino 100 Valencia will raise its glass for the very last time at the end of July…Simply, our lease has come to its natural end and we have chosen not to renew it.

…Vino 100 will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday thru Saturday during the month of July. In appreciation of your patronage, we’re offering our entire inventory of wine discounted at 20% off; wine gifts and accessories at 40% off. Store fixtures, furniture, equipment, and odds and ends are also on sale at deeply discounted prices. There will also be lots of parting thank you gifts.

Every wine has a story, and we’ve shared more than a few with you. Join us in raising our glass to the next chapter and new beginnings.

Lil & Shari

A Toast to Vino 100 by Joshua Patterson

“We’re on Newhall Ranch Road.”

“Newhole…?”

“NewHALL. I’m from New York.”

Lil Lepore had called me for an interview. This was how I came to Vino 100 and began a journey through wine I wouldn’t soon forget.

Under Lil and Shari’s guidance, I experienced a range of grapes I’d never guessed existed let alone tried to pronounce. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo? I’m thirsty just getting the syllables out. Nero d’Avola? Sounds like something my grandmother had once. Alicante Bouschet? I hope it tastes as beautiful as its name … wait, it’s mainly used for adding color? You’re kidding, right?

The range and diversity were dizzying. Sometimes we’d taste 15 wines back-to-back. In the beginning the sheer sensory input was too much, but patterns began to emerge. Soon I was making observations like “I get limestone and grapefruit – this is a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, isn’t it?” and “Wow, look at those legs. This is a fruit bomb. Really generous in the mouth. Central Coast Zin?” All this was punctuated by Lil’s ready smile and easy laugh.

Then there were Women on Wine and our Meet the Winemaker series. In both, I gained immense knowledge. In the former, I would research the brand and the grape we were presenting and, in the latter, I’d nerd out and pepper the winemaker with questions. Soon I knew about secondary fermentation, fining, harvesting, the temperaments of certain grapes.

And the atmosphere for all of it was warm, cordial and filled with bonhomie. The best part was being able to impart this knowledge to our customers. This wasn’t just some store in a strip mall, some box with bottles in it, this was a repository of knowledge, a place of warmth and light. A place where one felt immediately welcome.

The sign above the register genuinely summed up their philosophy: Enter as strangers, leave as friends. Indeed we did.

So I raise my glass to the ladies of Vino 100 Valencia. Lil and Shari, it was a brilliant experience to be a part of what you created and I know there are so very many people whose lives you touched not only through your wine but through your warmth and generosity of spirit.

Sláinte mhaith!

Memories Brought to you by Facebook

Ckay Walker: Nooooo

Bobbi Jean Bell: What stunning news! Such wonderful ladies with a heart for the community as well as wine. You’ve made a big impact in the SCV, and a role model for small businesses like ours, and we raise our glass to wish you two Happy Trails wherever they lead you!

Ola Mikail: Only went in there one time to browse. Did impromptu flight. Gentleman working there was very nice and generous pourer.

Kym Cappi: This has always been my go to place for Wine Accessories for gifts as well as lovely tastings w/friends. Adore Lil and Shari & the staff and will miss them greatly!

Beth Greenberg: They will be missed by so many of us-and by the community. They were so generous.

Robert M. Gardner: dislike.

Diane Ceurvorst Ghilardi: I loved the Women on Wine nights with great ladies (that’s where I met YOU, Eve!) We laughed a lot and learned about regions, varietals and great wines. Laughter & wine – the best medicine! I will miss everyone, but thank God for Facebook, where I stay connected with my genuine Vino100 friends. What will I do with my time now that I won’t be doing the Vino100 Facebook page? I wish Lil and Shari the best in their future ventures.

Cheryl Dellepiane: Please say it isn’t so! Don and I will miss them dearly.

Kathy Lockhart: So Sad!!!

David Barlavi Lxix: I hate to see any local mom & pop business close, but who knows, perhaps it’s for perfectly happy reasons. Best wishes to all either way.

Steve Lemley: Bummer…. I hate to see dreams come to an end. Coming from owning a similar business, I understand what it takes to even open the doors and believe me when I say they poured their heart and soul into it for their customers. I wish you both the best and if there is anything I might be able to do, please don’t hesitate to ask. CHEERS!!!

Jennifer Chadwick: It has been a pleasure. I hate to see them close…they have been a wonderful part of our community and I wish them well!!

Beth Peterson Greenwald: Heart breaking news….I am sorry.

Darlene Gandara: Amazing ladies. Saddens me.

Joshua Patterson: This makes me sad. My time at Vino 100 took me beyond a fondness for wine to a downright fascination with it. A chapter in my life closes with the store.

More, not Less, From Lil

May 20, 2011 by evebushman

Big news hit my inbox last week. Rumors of All Corked Up wine club members being shuffled over to Vino 100…prompted a whirlwind of rumors on my Facebook page when I posted the news. I contacted Lil Lepore, owner of Vino 100, and found out that…

…There was an e-mail notification sent out by All Corked Up on May 1 – followed by a second e-mail on May 10 – letting monthly wine club members know that they can continue getting monthly wine shipments with Vino 100 Valencia.

For those of you that don’t know: All Corked Up’s retail store is closing and they plan to be completely liquidated – after a fantastic sale – by July 1. (Vino 100 is not absorbing any of their stock.) From then on they will only own and operate the storage facility. The front two bars, which has education classes, live music, a patio, dancing, events and a restaurant, known as “The Cellar”, will continue to be owned and operated by DiMaggio Washington.

Don’t know what a wine club is? It’s where you sign up to receive a specific allocation of wine, at specific times of the year, from a wine bar or winery. Lots of people do it this way in the former case, as they don’t have the time to select their own wines. In the latter case, it’s to get sought-after wines before they are sold out.

In both scenarios members can also be treated to special parties, tastings, events and pricing.

In this case, your credit card was not sent digitally, or any way, from All Corked Up to Vino 100. All that was exchanged was your contact information.

In talking to Lil, I learned a wee bit more of what Vino 100 members receive. One is the monthly member-only Black Bag Tasting event that is explained in depth below. The other, which is quite unique, allows members more choices.

The club works like this: Lil chooses four bottles every month. You come in to taste during the Black Bag event, or anytime you want to come in to pick up your wine (and, yes, shipping is always an option) and decide, based upon your own palate, which two of the four you want to purchase.

She is inviting all All Corked Up members just to meet them, see what they have to offer and make their own choice.

Black Bag Tasting Lil was kind enough to ask me to attend the members-only monthly wine tasting at Vino 100, to see for myself what they do.

Guests were greeted with appetizers – replenished often that night by wine representative Wendy Ora Roberts – a wine glass and a tasting sheet. Lil circled the room, constantly filling, and offering refills, of the four wines we were to taste.

For their May meeting I was given a Bella Ragazza Pinot Grigio, Fisetta Barbera d’Alba, Marques de la Concordia Tempranillo and a Minassian–Young Grenache. Our tasting sheet included notes about the wines as well as suggested pairings.

All of the wines were quite nice, each showing the varietal differences well. I was betting that these wine club members gained quite an education in tasting and then selecting wines every month.

It was a friendly, comfortable atmosphere, as is always the case at Vino 100. One wine club member, Randy Moberg, told me that he had been a member ever since they opened. The fact that he could make his own choice, in a wine club, was the deciding factor for him. And, after tasting the wines myself, I had to wonder how members could only walk away with two bottles. I know I didn’t.

From the Vino 100 website:

ENLIVEN, ENHANCE, EDUCATE

Simple, fun and easy to participate in, our wine club gives you the power to choose your monthly selections at a members’ only event on the third Tuesday of every month.

As a distinguished member of our Black Bag Wine Club, each month you will have an opportunity to taste four wines and take home the two that you enjoy the most!

This is the only wine club that YOU choose your monthly selection ! Our mission is to enliven, enhance and educate your palate each and every month by bringing you unique varietals, undiscovered wine regions, new producers and delicious wines.

Not only are you able to sample the wines before you take them home, but you will also be educated about the selections to fully appreciate their unique nature. Tasting notes are provided for each wine.

And there’s more… As a new member, you will also receive a two-bottle insulated tote bag ($35 value) as a gift to say thank you for joining our club. Bring this wonderful tote to every club tasting to take home your monthly selections.

Out of town options? The Black Bag Wine Club is also available to out of town customers. You choose your two wines and we ship them to you. You are responsible for shipping costs.

http://www.vino100valencia.com Highridge Crossing Center, 28112 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia, CA 91355, 661 294-6886

One bottle post: 09 Coteaux Du Languedoc Picpoul de Pinet

April 15, 2011 by evebushman

09 Coteaux Du Languedoc Picpoul de Pinet

12.5% alcohol

I had not had this varietal before, at least that I could recall, when my pal Denise Lowe suggested I buy it when we were at Vino 100.

Color: Clear.

Aroma: Fresh mowed grass, pineapple and cantaloupe melon.

Taste: pineapple, very slight honey nuance, very high acidity, reminiscent of a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc in its crispness and fruit.

Finish: Only got to a count of three before the flavors left my palate = short finish. But a very smooth, and surprising, back palate for a wine so high in acid.

89 Eve points.

Price: I think it was about $20.

Want to know more? Here is a description of the wine from the website “Snooth”: This wine is produced in the Coteaux du Languedoc region of southeast France. The terroir is a mixture of limestone, sand and clay. Pinet is a small Languedoc village overlooking the oyster and mussel farms of the Bassin de Thau. Although the climate is dry and sunny, the lake provides coolness and humidity at night which allows the grapes to retain a high level of acidity. It is a wine of compelling minerality and crisp acidity. Best known as an accompaniment to seafood. – Description from pjmesbono