33rd Annual Winesong Event on Mendocino Coast Raises $700,000 for Mendocino Coast Hospital Foundation

October 16, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

FORT BRAGG, CA – After a spectacular weekend of award-winning wine, fabulous food, fine art, music, merriment, and charitable giving, this year’s 33^rd annual Winesong was declared a resounding success, with increased auction sales and more guests than ever participating in the auctions. Held on the Mendocino Coast on September 8^th and 9^th, highlights included A Pinot Noir Celebration, the Grand Tasting event and a Live and Silent auction. Winesong is the main fundraising event benefiting the Mendocino Coast District Hospital. Produced by the Mendocino Coast Hospital Foundation, all proceeds go towards supporting the local Hospital that serves the entire Mendocino Coast, plus rural inland areas covering nearly half the distance to Highway 101.

Winesong 2017 kicked off on Friday, September 8th with a sold-out insider’s view of spectacular Pinot Noirs at ‘A Pinot Noir Celebration’ hosted by the Little River Inn. Guests enjoyed Pinot Noir tastings and delicious passed hors d’oeuvres, along with a chance to “talk shop” with the winemakers from Mendocino County, Napa and Sonoma Counties. On Saturday, September 9^th, attendees to the Grand Tasting strolled the enchanting Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens while enjoying vintages poured by world-class wineries from Mendocino, Napa, Sonoma and beyond, and bites from nearly 50 fine food purveyors. The celebration continued in the Auction Tents with the always-entertaining main attraction, the Live and Silent Auctions, where nearly 150 lots were on offer – including spectacular wines from a selection of prestigious wine producers, rare and hard-to-find vintages, special vertical and horizontal collections, original paintings and art from highly acclaimed artists, and domestic and international vacation packages.

Bidders at the Live Auction under the big tent helped raise significant funds, with a projected gross of more than $700,000 coming in from the two-day event. After covering production expenses, the Winesong net return will be used to assist the Mendocino Coast District Hospital purchase needed equipment. Some of the most coveted items were the big international trips and spectacular wine auction lots. Leading the way for bidding was a 10-day trip to South Africa, which was doubled at $21,000 per trip! Trips to Italy and Amsterdam each garnered $18,000. An unparalleled 20-bottle collection of Chateau Gruaud Larose Grand Cru went for $16,000 and a rare wine lot featuring companion vineyards from Chateau Pichon Longueville went for $17,000. Another highlight was the “Fund-A-Need” to help provide comfort and care to patients by way of upgraded beds and patient room improvements. The goal was $200,000, which was surpassed by a combination of day of bidders and pre-event gifts to raise $205,000, with 100% of these donations going directly to the Hospital.

“This year’s Winesong had a different layout than in the past, and one of the main purposes was to encourage general admission ticketholders to register for bidder paddles and join the fun,” says Jamie Peters, Event Director for Winesong. “And I’m happy to say that it worked! We had more new bidders than ever and are encouraged ourselves to continue to make it easy and convenient for all guests to participate in the auctions as well as the beautiful tasting.”

Other highlights from the live and silent auction include:

Lot 12: Artist of the Year art piece – “Barn Song” – a 30” x 30” Bas Relief – $14,000
Lot 16A: A surprise lot courtesy of Ann & Dick Grace that includes dinner for 4 at The French Laundry and large format wines from Grace Family Vineyards – $12,000
Lot 22: “Sweethearts in Paradise” – a trip for two couples to Barbados – $13,000
Lot 24: 45” x 60” giclee on canvas by the late Lowell Herrero – $15,000

“We were thrilled with the results of Winesong 2017,” states Michelle Roberts, Executive Director of the Mendocino Coast Hospital Foundation. “The live auction tent was filled with energy as generous donors responded to the call to action to help us fund vital equipment at Mendocino Coast District Hospital. We thank everyone who helped make the day a success. The generosity around this event is truly awe-inspiring.”

About Winesong & the Mendocino Coast Hospital Foundation

Winesong is produced by the Mendocino Coast Hospital Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for the Mendocino Coast District Hospital. Its mission is to help the small rural Hospital provide the best possible medical care to residents as well as the many visitors to the Mendocino Coast. Winesong proceeds have enabled the Hospital to purchase chemotherapy equipment, portable ultrasound machines for the Emergency Room as well as a state-of-the-art Diagnostic Imaging Center, Cardiology Equipment, a Bedside Medicine Verification System and a Patient Bedside Monitoring & Alert system.

For further information, please visit http://winesong.org or call (707) 961-4688.

Sherryfest 2017 Returns to New York This October

October 8, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

New York, New York (PRWEB) – Sherry lovers – mark your calendar. Sherryfest, one of the world’s largest and most prominent sherry events, is returning to New York City this fall for its fifth year running. The 2017 program will take place over the weekend of October 27-29th, broadening its reach to a wider consumer and collector audience in addition to programming for wine professionals. The weekend will be full of fabulous and rare sherry, in-depth seminars, and expertly paired dinners hosted by some of Jerez’s most noteworthy producers.

The 2017 Sherryfest will consist of a full schedule of events including a Grand Tasting, in addition to producer dinners and tasting seminars, with three in-depth themed seminars on Friday and a broader look at the spectrum of sherry on Saturday. The Grand Tasting, with an exclusive early entry for wine professionals and VIP rare tasting, will showcase the diverse styles and producers of sherry. The dinner events – Tradición and Osborne at Toro and Williams & Humbert and González Byass at Rouge Tomate – will highlight rare sherries paired alongside dishes from some of New York’s leading restaurants who have dedicated menus and bar programs to highlight sherry. The events will be punctuated with a Happy Hour with Lustau at Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels on Friday and an after-hours party at Terroir Tribeca on Saturday. The final morning will be Sherryfest’s first-ever Sherry Brunch, hosted by North End Grill. The more casual affair will showcase the versatility of sherry at all meals, and guests will be invited to bring their own bottles of rare sherry to share.

“We are very excited that the 2017 Sherryfest is returning to New York, a city that embraces and highlights sherry regularly,” explains Peter Liem, co-founder of Sherryfest. “This year we will reach a wider audience of consumers and collectors, with tastings, seminars, parties, and producer dinners, showcasing the distinctive characteristics of sherry. We believe this will be our best year yet!”

The bodegas joining the 2017 Sherryfest include Gonzalez Byass, Barbadillo, Bodegas Tradicion, Delgado Zuleta, Bodegas 501, Rodriguez La-Cave, Valdespino, La Guita, Real Tesoro, Williams & Humbert, Hidalgo – La Gitana, Fernando de Castilla, Lustau, Emilio Hidalgo, Gutiérrez Colosía, Osborne, Alexander Jules, Callejuela, and more!

Sherryfest Schedule of Events:

Friday, October 27
11:00 am – 12:15 pm    Single Vineyard Pago Master Class with Valdespino at Craft Private Dining Room ($45)
1:00 pm – 2:15 pm    Vintage Sherries Master Class with Williams & Humbert at Craft Private Dining Room ($45)
3:00 pm – 4:15 pm    Biological Aging Master Class with González Byass at Craft Private Dining Room ($45)
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm    Happy Hour Welcome Party hosted by Lustau at La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels ($55)
7:30 pm – 10:30 pm    Bodegas Tradición & Osborne Producer Dinner at Toro ($160)

Saturday, October 28
11:00 am – 12:00 pm    ‘The Sherry Spectrum’ Tasting Seminar hosted by the Consejo Regulador de Jerez at Astor Center ($45)
11:00 am – 1:00 pm    Exclusive Wine Trade & Media Grand Tasting at Astor Center
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm    VIP Rare & Vintage Tasting at Astor Center ($50)
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm    Grand Tasting at Astor Center ($30)
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm    Williams & Humbert & González Byass at Rouge Tomate ($160)
10:00 pm – 12:00 am    Saturday Night Sherry Fiesta at Terroir Tribeca ($55)

Sunday, October 29
11:00 am – 1:00 pm Sherry Brunch at North End Grill ($99)

For additional event information, please visit http://www.sherryfest.com, contact info(at)sherryfest(dot)com, or follow @Sherryfest on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

About Sherryfest:
Sherryfest is one of the world’s largest and most prominent sherry events, celebrating all aspects of this magnificent Spanish wine. Created by Peter Liem, author of Sherry, Manzanilla & Montilla and Champagne: The Essential Guide to the Wines, Producers, and Terroirs of the Iconic Region (in pre-release) and Rosemary S. Gray, Sherryfest was launched in New York City in 2012, and further events have since been held in San Francisco, Toronto, and Portland, Oregon. In 2015, the team expanded to include Siu Ki Wan as director of event production, Sarah Bray as director of marketing and communications, and Caitlin Laman as bodegas liaison.

About Consejo Regulador of the Dominations of Origin “Jerez-Xérès-Sherry” and “Manzanilla”:
The Consejo Regulador of the Dominations of Origin “Jerez-Xérès-Sherry” and “Manzanilla” is the regulatory council for Sherry Wines, the first wine to be protected by a Denomination of Origin in Spain. Established in 1933, the role of the Consejo is to both protect and market the Sherry Wine brand locally and internationally. Exporting to over 50 markets, sherry is one of the most exported wines of Spain. We will keep you up to date on events and news taking place both in Jerez and internationally.

Perlis Picks – Stillman Wines

September 2, 2017 by Michael Perlis Leave a Comment

I don’t know about you, but most of the time it seems that vintage doesn’t matter with California wines. Yes, there are slight variations but the overall high quality grapes and good winemaking tend to result in great wine every year.

The deal goes down with Stillman in the La Quinta parking lot — photo by Mike Ortiz

2011 has seemed to be an exception. As I work my way through the wines we have from this vintage, I’ve found fewer wines than usual to get excited about. Not that they aren’t there, but it was the kind of year that separated the good from the great and resulted in my canceling some club memberships that I was borderline about.

That being said, there are still some wonderful wines from 2011. The 2011 J Dusi Zinfandel, which I originally had concerns over, has turned into a wonderful wine. And the wines from faves like Bedrock, Carlisle and Turley definitely met my expectations.

But the wine of the vintage for me was the 2011 Colossus Syrah from Stillman Wines. Fortunately, I happened to buy several bottles of this wine, and it continues to amaze everyone I share it with. No one believes the 16.5% alcohol on the bottle or that it comes from Paso Robles. The wine is just gulp-ably delicious. Sadly, I think we finally finished our last bottle of this wine.

I’m not sure what I can write about Stillman Brown [or Swilly Idle as he is sometimes known]. He makes great wines, most of them for other people. Those relationships, while not huge secrets, are also really not widely publicized and I will respect that.

So, when Karen and I met with Stillman at [REDACTED] winery and tasted through some barrel samples, I’ll tell you they were excellent but that’s about all I can tell you.

You’re in luck though. The wines Stillman makes for others he also makes for his own label [and others too], with a stylistic tweak here and there. The best way to get your hands [lips] on those is to sign up for his email list. You’ll get some entertaining emails and an opportunity to buy some delicious well-priced wines.

Here are some excerpts from some of his emails…

“Friends, family, fans and stalkers, this ZEPPELIN ATTACK WARNING is not from the Royal Flying Corps – which rather sounds like Elvis after he popped too many pills – but is instead notification of the imminent launch of one of the most unique, intense, and succulent wines we’ve made. (Succulent is not usually applied to the dominant variety here, but Tannat’s reputation for biting tannins is largely a product of the idiosyncratic fermentation regimes of its homeland in southwestern France and its often slavish mimicry in the New World, as well the similarity of the words themselves.)…”

Here’s another…

“Behold the multitasking mystery here: the title of the painting [referencing the wine label with the title The Effect Of Wine On The Human Spirit] is also the name of the wine, and the multivintage declaration doubles as the alcohol approximation. As complex as an intoxicated argument between Bertrand Russell and Ludwig Wittgenstein: lightly roasted ripe Nantucket cranberry and Cohabitation Canyon (Fruita, UT) cherry and mulberry, and spicy pink peppercorn and spearmint…”

And just one more…

“Ladies, gentlemen and fruit flies, I know that releasing a white wine in the icy dead of winter may seem odd, but it is not: by the time warmer weather comes there might not be any left to ship; it’s popular around here. The 2016 Red Zeppelin Vermentino sports an awesome new label, but there are no other changes excepting the addition of 9% Viognier from the same block; it’s much more like the ’15 than the ’14. The acidity is relatively high, the alcohol a mere 13.4%, but it’s not a ‘light’ wine: it has all the characteristic spice of the variety, but far more flavor and mouthfeel due to the low yields at the Hill of Graceland.”

Some wines are the Stillman Wines label, others are Zeppelin Wines. Regardless, Stillman’s wines are worth seeking out.

Send him an email at stillmanb@aol.com.

Stillman is much more than a pretty face in a gold suit and perfect pedicure. He’s been my go-to for technical questions, parking lot purchases and visits to wineries-under-construction. I want to find out more of his bio but he’s already told me if I reveal too much he’d have to ki….

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.

Soar, Sip & Savor: Top Wine Country Experiences in Paso Robles

August 21, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Paso Robles CAB Collective offers top flight tasting experiences

Visitors to the region can expect award-winning wines and memorable adventures (Appointments are recommended for these activities, offered daily.)

August 2017 (Paso Robles, Calif.) – Spend a day soaring over vineyards and exploring underground caves before breaking wine pairing rules while dining on farm-to-table fare. When visiting members of the Paso Robles CAB Collective (PRCC), guests can expect sensational experiences that accompany the highly acclaimed wines.

“The Paso Robles wine region is constantly innovating, and one of the ways our members do so is to make guests a priority and offer them encounters that are memorable,” says PRCC President and Ancient Peaks Winery co-owner Doug Filipponi.

For the thrill seeker, Ancient Peaks Winery has created Margarita Adventures, which offers zipline tours over historic Santa Margarita Ranch. Guests can soar along six distinct ziplines, starting with two epic rides over Cabernet Sauvignon vines on the 2,800-foot Double Barrel tandem zipline and the 1,300-foot Renegade zipline. Afterward, visitors can relax in the winery’s tasting room and sample Ancient Peaks’ red Bordeaux varietals, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Oyster Ridge, a Bordeaux-style blend.

Guests can balance soaring over the vines with exploring underground caves at Eberle Winery. Built as a place to age the wines, the 16,000 square feet caves include the 100-seat Wild Boar Room, and can be visited during daily tours. The winery hosts their monthly Guest Chef Dinner Series and special events in the caves, which serve as a romantic and unique backdrop. Founder Gary Eberle, known as the “Godfather of Paso Robles wine,” was one of the first to plant Cabernet Sauvignon in the region, offering his first vintage in 1979. Guests can expect to enjoy current vintages of the same varietal during their tour.

At Allegretto Vineyards & Wines, the focus is on food and wine pairing, but not in the traditional manner that experienced oenophiles come to expect. Each wine is poured in its own glass to honor its unique, elegant and balanced flavor profile, with guests encouraged to set their own pace of enjoyment. Here the emphasis is put on flavor and teaching guests the technique of “flavor balancing.” Educating guests to understand why they like certain wines and then balancing them with food allows for unconventional pairings, such as the Allegretto’s Cabernet Sauvignon with Grilled Halibut. The theory Allegretto embraces is to pair the wine with the diner, not the dinner.

Once visitors have learned how to pair wine with food, a visit to JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery is a must. Guests are encouraged to browse the herbs, strawberries, squash, lettuce and edible flowers that renowned Executive Chef Will Torres might pick for the featured dish that evening. These farm fresh ingredients are designed to pair with JUSTIN’s Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and signature ISOSCELES blend. The winery also offers daily production and vineyard tours that include access to the Founder’s vineyard, barrel chai and ISOSCELES library.

A day spent visiting the wineries of the Paso Robles CAB Collective offers an unlimited variety of encounters paired with the enjoyment of top caliber wines. Members are committed to creating experiences that are as memorable as each of the wines.

Sponsors of the Paso Robles CAB Collective are: Smurfit Kappa, The Tasting Panel Magazine, The Somm Journal, Seguin Moreau, Fiji Water, Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance, The Bottle Meister, Martinez Farming, Travel Paso Robles Alliance, Encore Glass, Umpqua Bank, Nomacorc, Heritage Oaks Bank, Cork Supply, Crop Production Services, Farm Credit West, Lafitte Cork & Capsule, TricorBraun, Moss-Adams, Peltier Glassworks, Portocork, Longcrier & Associates, Glenn Burdette, The Blueprinter, Vineyard Professional Services, and Breakaway Tours and Event Planning.

The 28 distinguished wineries of the Paso Robles CAB Collective are: Adelaida Vineyards & Winery, Allegretto Vineyards & Wines, Ancient Peaks Winery, Brecon Estate, Calcareous Vineyard, Cass Vineyard & Winery, Castoro Cellars, Chateau Margene, Clos Solène, DAOU Vineyards & Winery, Eberle Winery, Halter Ranch Vineyard, Hoyt Family Vineyards, J. Lohr Vineyard & Wines, JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, Lions Peak Vineyards, Niner Wine Estates, Opolo Vineyards, Parrish Family Vineyard, Pomar Junction Vineyard & Winery, RN Estate Vineyard & Winery, Robert Hall Winery, Rotta Winery, San Antonio Winery, Sextant Wines, The Farm Winery, Treana Winery and Vina Robles Vineyards & Winery.

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 to trade, media and consumers the full potential of the Paso Robles region in producing superior quality, classic and age-worthy Cabernet and red Bordeaux varietals that compete on a global stage. For more information, please visit www.pasoroblescab.com.

How Do You Like Your Wine From Your Favorite Wineries: Consistent Flavor or Consistently Good?

August 18, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

The average consumer likes consistency, but I believe that the vinophile likes a consistently interesting wine. Let me explain why I’m making this statement.

In a recent brief discussion with a wine friend we debated what is better: a wine that consumers have learned to expect the same from, vintage after vintage, so that they are confident when they pick up a bottle from the supermarket – or – a wine that surprises? Which could also be from a consistently good source?

For example, for years I have recommended Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc for its lively fruit aromas and flavors. The bottle even now has a description of what I mean: nut fruit, which is fruit with a “nut” center like apricots and peaches. I’ve frankly never noticed a difference in this wine year after year. When I noticed they came out with an unoaked Chardonnay, that wine, just like its sister varietal, tastes the same to me with every passing vintage.

Other supermarket favorites, like the baby-blue labeled La Marca Prosecco priced below $15 are in this category, along with all non vintage sparkling wines that strive to taste the same year after year.

Sameness doesn’t mean wrongness. These wines make it easy to select for a pairing dinner, convenient as most are on supermarket shelves, and finally, most are competitively priced.

The vinophile in me does argue the point though. If I don’t want to think about new and interesting aromas and flavors then why am I even bothering with wine? Why not drink water? If I just want to be inebriated there’s flavorless and colorless vodka.

Nope, if given the choice, I want to be surprised by a wine. And I bet some of you reading this article like this too. One of my most interesting “A Ha” moments come when someone brings me a wine that they love and want me to try. I want to put as much effort into tasting the wine that they did, figuring out if I can taste what they are describing and find the same pleasure.

It’s also fun if the wine has a totally different flavor than the aroma, if the color is not exactly what I expected, if the winemaker writes up a clever diatribe on the back label, and, of course, if it’s a varietal, winery, winemaker or from a place on earth I haven’t had before.

Think about it, which is your preference?

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Domaine Drouhin Oregon Celebrates 30th Anniversary

August 9, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

NEW YORK, NY (PRWEB) – This month, Domaine Drouhin Oregon, the family-owned and operated Joseph Drouhin estate based on U.S. soil, kicked off its celebration of 30 years of success in the Willamette Valley’s Dundee Hills. Now run by the family’s fourth-generation, each of the four siblings play a large role in the success of the historic brand. The eldest, Philippe Drouhin, tends to the viticulture and sustainability of the vines, Véronique Drouhin-Boss, the winemaker and guiding palate of the estate, continues to surprise and delight with exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines, Laurent Drouhin leads the marketing initiative in the U.S. as the face of the brand, and Frédéric Drouhin oversees all operations as President. Together, they complete a perfect unity utilizing centuries-old Burgundian winemaking traditions in Oregon.

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Photo: Domaine Drouhin Oregon Facebook page

“I remember it like it was yesterday, walking with my father, Robert Drouhin, 30 years ago through the plot of land that was to become DDO,” said Véronique Drouhin-Boss during a series of kick-off events at the estate. “There was nothing there yet, of course, just trees and an incredible view. Most people probably could not see a vineyard within that land but we both just knew. It felt right. With my family, our amazing team, and the support of the community, we’ve worked tirelessly to bring the French soul to the soil of our Oregon estate and it gives me great joy to share our craft with those who have inspired and believed in our vision over the last three decades.”

Joseph Drouhin founded the Burgundy estate in 1880. His son Maurice Drouhin succeeded him in 1917, and his son – and current patriarch of the family – Robert Drouhin, became the third generation to run the business in 1957. It was Robert who first “discovered” Oregon on a visit in 1961. He recognized that it was Oregon (more so than California) that had the soil, latitude, and climate that could unlock the complexities and potential of Pinot and Chardonnay in the US. In 1987, Robert purchased property, and the newly christened Domaine Drouhin Oregon produced its first vintage in 1988 from purchased grapes. The following year they built the landmark, four-story gravity flow winery, producing the first ever vintage on the property in 1989.

“There is a big difference between ‘family-owned’ and ‘family-owned and operated.’ We live in Beaune, we live in Oregon, and we are in the vineyard and at the winery tasting every day. It is our family name on the label so we must be in control of every detail to ensure the wine can bear our name,” added Frédéric Drouhin.

During a series of kick off events, the family opened their estate and cellars with guided vineyard hikes, special tastings of vintages from DDO, Roserock – the latest of the Drouhin family’s adventure located in Oregon’s Eola-Amity Hills – and Maison Joseph Drouhin. Each night ended with various themed dinners, such as a La Paulée-style “Le BBQ” which featured a blue grass band and multiple large-format free pours. The series also included an extraordinarily special tasting of some of the estate’s very first vintages including a 1989 Domaine Drouhin Oregon Pinot Noir Classique (the very first vintage produced at the estate, of which there are only 24 bottles left). Guests also tasted through various vintages – including the first ever vintage – of Chardonnay Arthur (2015, 2012, 2002), Pinot Noir Laurène (2000, 1996, 1992), and Pinot Noir Louise (2007, 2003, 1999) – the three cuvées named for each of Véronique’s three children. Both her son Arthur and daughter Laurène took part in the celebration, adding another dynamic to the intimate affair – commenting wistfully on the wines, how they’ve aged well with time, and how the family has, as well. “When I taste the first vintages of the Arthur, Laurène, and Louise, I am profoundly reminded of the day each of them came into this world,” added Véronique. It was an incredibly moving evening for guests and the family alike.

Events were attended by friends of the family, members of the wine club, the media, importers, distributors, and neighboring estates such as: Eyrie Vineyards, Adelsheim, Ponzi, Casteel and Sokol Blosser families. Forever grateful for the continued community support, the four siblings and their children also performed the “ban bourguignon,” a tradition specific to Burgundy sung in celebratory honor, in this case directed in honor of their father, grandfather, great grandfather, and their esteemed guests.

Philippe Drouhin also led a number of informative vineyard tours throughout the DDO and their new Roserock estates. “After 30 years of observation of our vineyards in Oregon, every year I realize that the level of knowledge of the viticulture in Burgundy is sometimes useful in Oregon. We will spend the next 30 years really getting to know the vines – this estate is young and we are still learning,” he explained.

Robert Drouhin’s vision of an Oregon estate winery that could rival the great vineyards of Burgundy has been realized at DDO. From what began as test plantings of cloned Pinot Noir rootstock now encompasses 52ha (130 acres) planted in the Dundee Hills and 50ha (124 acres) planted in the Eola-Amity Hills. Interspersed with the Pinot Noir vines are 11 acres of Chardonnay, planted at various elevations and, like in Burgundy, planted right alongside rows of Pinot Noir. The densely planted vines are farmed sustainably on L.I.V.E. certified vineyards, and tended to by hand when leaves and fruit are thinned. Harvesting is also done entirely by hand, from the grape selection and picking to press.

“Our father made a very ambitious decision in 1987 to expand our business to Oregon,” said Laurent. “As we honor him and our family legacy, I am reminded of what a big moment this is for our family, and in our overall pursuit of perfection in Joseph Drouhin wines. Every year is a milestone. But the 30th is important because it shows that this is not just a short-term adventure, but that it is one more stone in the Drouhin brand.”

For more information about the estate, visit: http://www.domainedrouhin.com.

ABOUT MAISON JOSEPH DROUHIN

Maison Joseph Drouhin owns 77.7 hectares (192 acres) of vineyards in Burgundy. The vineyards are principally Grand and Premier Cru appellations of the Côte d’Or and Chablis. The family-owned and –run firm was founded in 1880 and produces nearly 90 different appellations, all of them from Burgundy. Since 1987, the family also owns 219 acres in Dundee Hills, known as Domaine Drouhin Oregon, and 229 acres in Eola-Amity Hills, known as Roserock since December 2013.

SPONSORS AND DETAILS ANNOUNCED FOR WINESONG, MENDOCINO’S PREMIER FOOD & WINE EVENT

July 30, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

FORT BRAGG, CA – Tickets are on sale for the 33rd Annual Winesong event — a spectacular weekend of award-winning wine, fabulous food, fine art, music, merriment, and charitable giving. Produced by the Mendocino Coast Hospital Foundation, the main event – featuring a grand food and wine tasting and a live and silent auction – takes place at the gorgeous Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens on Saturday, September 9^th, and on Friday, September 8^th, the nearby Little River Inn will host A Pinot Noir Celebration, showcasing winemakers from Anderson Valley and other renowned Pinot regions. Proceeds from both events go towards supporting the local Mendocino Coast District Hospital that serves so many in the area.

Winesong is very pleased to announce at this time the sponsors for the 2017 event. Some have been with Winesong for years, while others are new to the family, but all contribute in helping to raise essential funds for the rural Hospital. This year, we have a wonderful mix of local and regional, as well as commercial and private sponsors. Sponsors are a vital part of any event — they help offset costs of production, provide auction lots, and add value to the attendees’ experience.

Two of the newest sponsors are Garton Tractor, in conjunction with Kubota Tractors, and American AgCredit. Garton Tractor is a leader in agricultural equipment – for sales, service, parts, and rentals. Garton Tractor has nine stores in Northern CA, and extending to the Central Valley, with the Ukiah Store being represented at Winesong. Kubota Tractors are one of their quality brands and both will be on hand at Winesong, not just for display, but to also help with vendors and guests alike. Both companies stress quality, integrity, and putting people first – and their respective values are both valued and appreciated by Winesong. Another leader in the agriculture industry – American AgCredit – whose mission is to be the best lender to agriculture. American AgCredit is committed to serving all segments on agriculture, ensuring they remain responsible stewards of borrower’s investments. Winesong welcomes the new ag-centric sponsors to our larger Winesong family!

Winesong is also thrilled to welcome Grape Encounters Radio as a sponsor. Last year David Wilson, Host of Grape Encounters, attended as a media affiliate and we’re elated that he chose to participate at a greater level this year. Grape Encounters Radio is the number one wine broadcast in America, simulcast on numerous stations across the country. What makes Grape Encounters a stand out is their focus on people as much as the wine itself. Having been on the air for eight years, Grape Encounters seeks to bring the entire world of wine to their listeners – and it’s evidenced in their weekly broadcasts. And – they make wine accessible to everyone, regardless of how great or little your knowledge or wine.

Local realty firm Pamela Hudson Real Estate is also a new sponsor to Winesong. PHRE specializes in high-end residential and commercial properties for buyers and purchasers, for investments or personal use. A highly-respected broker and realtor, Pamela herself is a huge community supporter, and we’re delighted to earn her support, and that of Pamela Hudson Real Estate, at Winesong.

Community First Credit Union, soon to merge with MendoLake Credit Union, is a new sponsor as well. Community First Credit Union covers Napa, Sonoma, and as of August 1^st, Mendocino & Lake Counties. CFCU offers all of the amenities you’d find at other credits unions, plus amazing service. We welcome Community First as a new sponsor and member of our Winesong family and community.

A host of additional businesses and individuals will also be sponsoring this year’s event, including The Coast FM – KOZT, Harvest Market, D. Scott Farmer & Mia Ballentine, Savings Bank of Mendocino, Little River Inn, North Coast Brewing Company, Mendocino Coast District Hospital Physicians, Ledford House, Mission Linen Supply, Anderson Valley Winegrowers Association, Thanksgiving Coffee Company, Caito Fisheries, Steppin’ Out Magazine, Mendocino Winegrowers Inc, Rossi Building Materials, Canclini Television & Appliance, Braggadoon Signs & Graphics, and Anderson Logging. For further information the 2017 Winesong event sponsors, please visit http://winesong.org/partners/sponsors/.

Further details regarding the Winesong events:

A Pinot Noir Celebration: Meet the Winemakers

Friday, September 8, 2017 | 1 to 4 p.m.

The weekend kicks off with a prestigious Pinot Noir tasting, presented by Winesong and hosted by Little River Inn. Attendees will enjoy Pinot Noir from renowned Anderson Valley, along with wines from other award-winning pinot regions, alongside tastes of Little River Inn’s finest culinary offerings. General Admission Tickets for A Pinot Noir Celebration: Meet the Winemakers are $75 per person.

Wine & Food Grand Tasting in the Gardens

Saturday, September 9, 2017 | 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Stroll through the lush Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens while enjoying vintages poured by world-class wineries from Mendocino, Sonoma, Napa, and beyond. Sample beer, spirits, and food from 50 of Mendocino County’s finest purveyors. The tasting is accented by various musical groups performing a variety of styles including jazz, classical, blues, calypso and folk rock. General Admission Tickets with festival seating at auction and access to wine and food tasting are $150 per person.

Silent & Live Auctions

Saturday, September 9, 2017 | SILENT: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; LIVE: 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The centerpiece of Winesong weekend is the Charity Auction, featuring both a silent and live auction. Nearly 200 lots will be on offer, featuring spectacular wines from the world’s most prestigious wine producers, rare vintages, large format bottles and special vertical and horizontal collections, as well as original art from acclaimed California artists and highly coveted international and domestic vacation packages. Auction Reserve Tickets with assigned seating under the auction tent (w/catered lunch) and access to wine and food tasting are $250 per person.

Tickets to all events are available for purchase at: http://winesong.org/events/purchase-tickets/

For further information, please visit http://winesong.org or call (707) 961-4688.

About Winesong & the Mendocino Coast Hospital Foundation

Perlis Picks: Double Trouble Wine Room

July 29, 2017 by Michael Perlis Leave a Comment

Downtown Newhall is fast becoming an all-in-one destination for the Santa Clarita Valley.

With a state of the art public library standing guard at the north end of Main Street and Newhall Refinery restaurant and Pulchella Winery tasting room near the southern end, along with everything else going on nearby and in-between, it is easy to see why this area’s popularity is only going to increase.

Recently, Karen and I had the opportunity to visit the Double Trouble Wine Room on Main Street, a joint project of Hoi Polloi Winery and Pagter Brothers Winery. Both wineries make their wines locally at SCV Custom Crush Services, sourcing grapes primarily from vineyards on California’s Central Coast.

PAGTER BROTHERS WINERY

For some years, I’ve enjoyed the wines made by Scott Pagter of Pagter Brothers Winery. I can’t remember all the details of when he shared the wine [under his previous wine label] with me at the much missed All Corked Up wine bar, but I do remember it being a pretty killer Grenache. [I also have very fond memories of Scott’s band Stupid Pony from those days. Fronted by excellent lead singer Sidney Iverson, I always looked forward to this band’s rare appearances.]

Scott and his brother Gib formed Pagter Brothers Winery in 2013 specializing in “big, bold reds.” That being said, the first wine we tried was the 2014 Chardonnay which was excellent, a fairly light wine but with a touch of oak on the finish to give it some body.

After that, though, we did move on to those big bold reds, tasting through a selection of wines from the 2014 vintage, mostly Rhone varietals with Syrah sourced from the White Hawk Vineyard in Santa Ynez and the Grenache from the Hoyt Vineyard in Paso Robles…

Notorious – blend of 75% Grenache and 25% Syrah, named after Gib’s day job as an attorney.

Melodious – a reverse of the Notorious, 75% Syrah and 25% Grenache, a tribute to Scott’s music/entertainment background.

Syrah – 100% from the White Hawk Vineyard. This was delicious, but we also got a sneak peek of the 2015 vintage which if anything was even better.

In addition, Pagter Brothers makes a Tempranillo. I think Tempranillo does very well in Paso and this 2014 was no exception.

Finally, another sneak peek – the 2015 Tannat. From Paso’s Adelaida district, this wine belied Tannat’s reputation as being monolithic and unapproachable. Definitely the opposite of that, drinking very well right after bottling and will only get better. My fave of the Pagter Brothers tasting.

Scott told me that their motto is to “make wine they like to drink…so if no one buys it they can drink it.” With these wines, they’re not going to be able to keep much for themselves.

HOI POLLOI WINERY

My relationship with Doug Minnick, one of the three owner/winemakers of Hoi Polloi Winery, goes back several years as well. Doug is also one of the co-founders of the Garagiste Festivals and he and I first met when I interviewed him for our Eve’s Wine 101 website about the inaugural event that was coming up.

So, it was a natural progression to want to make wine. The special focus is on Syrah and Doug says they will soon be able to do side-by-side single vineyard Syrah tastings from all four of their Syrah sources – Sebastiano Vineyard [Sta. Rita Hills], Alta Colina Vineyard [Paso Robles], Hoppe Kelly Vineyard [Russian River Valley] as well as the iconic Larner Vineyard in Ballard Canyon. If you know Syrah, you know that Doug et al have connected with some pretty outstanding vineyards. I feel that Syrah is one of the best varieties for showing off differences in terroir, so this is pretty exciting stuff.

But they do make other wines besides Syrah. We started our tasting with the newly released 2016 Grenache Rosé from Colburn Vineyards in Paso Robles – one of the best Rosés that I’ve had.

We then moved to the reds by first tasting the 2015 “Illicit” Pinot Noir from Santa Maria and the 2014 “Touch of Evil” Cabernet Sauvignon from the Cass Vineyard in Paso Robles. Both solid wines.

Now, time for the red Rhones!

We eased into them, starting with the 2015 Syrah / Grenache Blend called Tryst, so called because while the 34% Grenache is entirely from Paso Robles, the 66% Syrah is a combination of Paso and cool-climate Sonoma. Makes for a very tasty wine.

Not messing around now, we tasted the Sebastiano Vineyard Sta. from Rita Hills and the Alta Colina Vineyard from Paso Robles, both from the 2014 vintage. I had already tasted these wines from last year’s Garagiste Festival in LA and knew what to expect. I was not disappointed. [Not tasted this time but tasted at that same festival was the 2014 “Double Exposure” blend from both of these vineyards, which was actually one of my favorites that day.]

We got a sneak peek here as well – the 2015 Petite Sirah from the Loma Seca Vineyard in Paso Robles. Delicious now, this wine is going to be fun to watch develop.

The Double Trouble Wine Room is definitely worth your time. Gorgeous facility, now with a patio, along with great wines poured by nice people. I expect this is a place you may want to become a “regular” at before it becomes too popular.

DOUBLE TROUBLE WINE ROOM

24338 Main St.
Newhall, CA 91321

PERLIS PICKS: LAW ESTATE WINES

July 22, 2017 by Michael Perlis Leave a Comment

For most of my wine drinking life I’ve espoused the belief that my favorite wine experiences are one-on-one situations with the winemaker, often of a fairly low-budget operation sharing his or her creations with me, sometimes while standing at opposite ends of a barrel or out in a vineyard. I’ve tended to avoid the high end fancy facilities where I’ve worried [sometimes justifiably] that the money went into the architecture and not the wine.

From LAW Estate Facebook page.

Law Estate Wines continues to shatter that belief on a regular basis.

We first tasted the Law wines at the Ojai Wine Festival a few years ago. Winery General Manager Oliver Esparham was pouring their first vintage and we – especially Karen – fell in love with the Law Wines. I still remember Karen rushing up to me and telling me “You need to try Law – especially the GSM blend!” She was right; the wines were great. I had no idea what this winery had in the works though.

Not too long thereafter, we found ourselves meeting once again with Oliver, this time at the under-construction winery in the soon-to-be-named Adelaida district of Paso Robles. It had now become pretty clear that this was going to be one of those fancy wineries. Yet, I couldn’t really complain, as the wines were definitely awesome.

Let’s look at how they got that way.

Don and Susie Law followed their passion for Rhone wines from their home in Colorado to Paso Robles, which is known for producing some of the best American Rhones. As geologists, they knew the right soil when they found it, and they built the winery and tasting room to match what they knew were going to be extremely high quality grapes coming from their estate vineyards. Add to the mix a true superstar winemaker in Scott Hawley as well as a group of some of the best winery employees you’ll find anywhere, and the outcome is no surprise.

Earlier this year, we had occasion to visit the winery and taste some of their current releases. [Note that tastings are by appointment and there is a $20 charge for tasting. Also note that the $20 charge is waived if you join the Allocation – and why wouldn’t you?]

We tasted the following…

Beguiling 2012 [92% Grenache, 8% Syrah]

Intrepid 2013 [100% Syrah]

Sagacious 2013 [37% Grenache, 34% Mourvedre, 29% Syrah]

Beyond Category 2013 [50% Syrah, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Grenache, 15% Petite Sirah]

Never easy to pick a favorite here, as all the wines are truly delicious. Karen’s continues to be the Sagacious blend. I tend to lean toward the complex flavors of the Beyond Category but ultimately I’m a sucker for the Intrepid 100% Syrah.

A month or so later, we had the pleasure of attending LAW’s Black Label Release Dinner.

To explain a little, LAW has two sets of labels, White and Black. The White Label wines are released in the Fall and if you buy enough [12 bottles in total at least] you get the opportunity to purchase the Black Label wines when they are released early the next year. Now I haven’t noticed a huge qualitative difference between the two labels, at least for my palate; I’m just a big fan of all the LAW wines.

That is not to say you shouldn’t buy the Black Label wine too, as there is no reason not to buy all that Law has to offer. And, the perks are pretty good too, such as being able to attend this dinner [which filled up so quickly they had to add a second one].

Held in the barrel room, the menu for that evening was…

2013 The Nines [100% Grenache] paired with Porcini Mushroom Bisque [with Melted Leeks en Brioche, Dried Wild Blueberries, Chive Oil].

2013 Prima [100% Mourvedre] paired with Oak Grilled California Duck Breast [with Toasted Pearl Couscous, Fennel Confit, Hen of the Woods, Pomegranate Gastrique].

2013 First Tracks [40% Petit Verdot, 32% Syrah, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon] paired with Six Hour Braised Prime Beef Short Rib [with Truffle Polenta Gratin, Glazed Spinach, Heirloom Carrots, Syrah Bordelaise].

2013 Sagacious [57% Grenache, 34% Mourvedre, 29% Syrah] with Artisan Sheeps Milk Cheeses, Bacon Jam and Spiced Cherries.

Not surprisingly, everything was delicious and the wines and courses were perfectly paired to highlight the nuances of each. The big standout for me was the Prima with the duck, but that’s not really surprising given my fondness for both.

I almost forgot to mention that before dinner there was a social hour with appetizers and more great wine, including the debut of the 2015 Soph blend of Roussanne, Marsanne and Clairette Blanche.

Lots of happy people that evening. At this kind of event, attendees quickly become friends. And the gentleman next to me said: “This is the best wine event I’ve ever attended.” [He was also happy to be sitting next to the “other Michael Perlis”, but that’s a story for another day.]

And speaking of people, it would be very easy for the Law owners and staff to match the fanciness of the winery. But there were no “airs” evident. The Laws are gracious and approachable, as is Scott Hawley. Over the last few years, I’ve gotten to know the aforementioned GM OIiver Esparham as well as Tasting Room Manager Adelaida Pitts and Sales and Marketing Manager Arnaud Fabre. This visit we got to chat with Cellar Manager Pedro Vazquez, whose enthusiasm is infectious. Without them, and the rest of the Law team, being who they are, the wines would probably still be great but the experience wouldn’t be what it is.

Law Estate Wines

3885 Peachy Canyon Road

Paso Robles, CA 93446

Vintage Eve Circa 12/2013: Visiting Phifer Pavitt

July 18, 2017 by evebushman Leave a Comment

Wowza – Suzanne Phifer Pavitt continues to blow us away! Greeting us – on crutches from a recent surgery – we climbed up to see the brand new second story tasting room. (Last year when we visited it was under construction.) It was the perfect backdrop for us to visit, and taste the latest vintages of her award winning DATE NIGHT Cabernet Sauvignon and the second vintage of winemaker Gary Warburton’s Sauvignon Blanc.

Suzanne explained that the Sauvignon Blanc had some residual sugar, besides a few other surprises, so she suggested we taste the Cab first. As Suzanne’s gut instinct about most things are dead-on correct, we switched up our usual routine and tried the Cab.

I was a wee bit distracted by the tasting notes provided by the winemaker, Ted Osborne, so I circled some of his that I found and added a few of my own:

Eve, Suzanne Phifer Pavitt, Photo credit Ed Bushman (2012 visit)

2010 DATE NIGHT Cabernet Sauvignon

Osborne and I both found Cinnamon, tannins, chocolate. I also noted cinnamon toast, plum jam, spicy dark chocolate, and a perfect balance of fruit and tannin.

2012 Sauvignon Blanc

100% Sauvignon Blanc, 100% stainless steel.

This is their second vintage.

Aromas of Sprite soda, green apple, sweetened grapefruit and a bit o’ honey. Flavors of crisp Ambrosia apples, apricots, pleasant mouth-coating viscous honey, and a long death-defying finish. (Tasting the wine it reminded me a little of the Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc for its nut fruit and low acidity. However, Warburton’s work was better!)

More About Suzanne Phifer Pavitt

Phifer Pavitt, prompted by Cub Reporter/My Husband Eddie Bushman, told us more about her work during our leisurely tasting. She had recently returned from DC where she was honored, along with only six others, for being Fortune’s most powerful women in business. One of her anecdotes was meeting Warren Buffet. With her long, slim hand she reached through a crowd of ladies to shake his. Then she introduced herself. Buffet was intrigued by her boldness even further when she said, “Sixty-six percent of luxury goods are purchased by women, but not wine” and then vowed to change that.

“How will you change things?” asked the cub reporter, to which Phifer Pavitt said that one way was through “A Woman’s Palate” online magazine that has a campaign geared for executive women called, “Don’t Give Up The Wine List.” Through their Wine Boot Camp a woman can be more confident about taking charge of a dinner she is hosting as well as she does the boardroom. The program was started by Susan Citron and Sharon Harris – with Phifer Pavitt.

Phifer Pavitt’s goals, besides helping other women traverse the wine world with ease, is to remain true to her own: Never sell more than a case of wine to anyone. This way when someone tells a friend about the winery, and that person tells their friends, not only will there be more people discovering Phifer Pavitt, they won’t run out of wine!

Conclusion: Can’t wait for my annual lunch with Warburton to pick up the bottles I bought and hear more about his work in Calistoga! And a possible DATE NIGHT Bubbly???

http://www.phiferpavittwine.com

Napa Valley November 2013 Facebook Album Link