Eve's Wine 101

Indigenous Grapes From Southwest France: A Tasting

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I love French wines – Bordeaux, Rhônes and Champagne – so when I got an invitation to taste three wines from Southwest France I accepted the challenge as I was very curious about tasting wines from grapes and wineries I may not be as familiar with. Information on each wine is from their technical sheets are below, followed by my tasting notes and finally more information on the wines from Southwest France.

DOMAINE DU MOULIN

GAILLAC MAUZAC 2017 FRENCH SPARKLING WINEbubble

REGION Southwest France

APPELLATION Gaillac

GRAPES Mauzac

VINTAGE 2017

 

TASTE

Gaillac’s local Mauzac grape lends itself extremely well to this medium-sweet style of wine. Full of spice and apple flavors, the wine is delicious as an aperitif. (The méthode ancestrale involves bottling a partially fermented wine which then finishes its fermentation in bottle.)

PRODUCER

Jean Paul and Dominique Hirissou took over the family winery in 1976. As soon as they arrived, they chose to focus on increasing the quality of their wine with each vintage by sourcing the best soils in the area, building a new winery adapted to produce wines of great quality, and opening the doors for wine tourism. Nicolas Hirissou, their son, is now in charge. Upon returning from his studies in 2002, he was handed the keys to the winery and granted the ability to take control of Domaine du Moulin wine production.

My Notes: Bubbles furiously – and for a long time – worked their way to the top of a golden-hued colored wine. Fruit cocktail in heavy syrup, pears, cling peaches and banana – tons of fruit – with just a hint of jasmine tea wafted to my nose. My mouth was coated with that same fruit, now honeyed, crisp and lasting. Very interesting wine.

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DOMAINE DUFFOUR

CÔTES DE GASCOGNE BLANC

REGION Southwest France

APPELLATION Cotes de Gascogne

GRAPES Gros Manseng, Ugni blanc, Colombard

VINTAGE 2020

 

TASTE

Notes of melon, clean, pure flavors of citrus fruit, an engaging herbaceous note, and a pleasingly dry finish.

PRODUCER

Domaine Duffour resides in the small town of Lagraulet-du-Gers, and since the early 1980’s proprietor Michel Duffour has dedicated himself to producing quality red and white wines. Since taking over his father’s property, he has entirely replanted the vineyards with Gros Manseng, Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Tannat, having kept the old Colombard and Ugni Blanc vines that he also uses for the production of armagnac.

My Notes: Shiny gold with a slight green in color, with aromas of white peach, lime zest, vanilla ice cream and a rocky riverbed. Tasting the wine reminded me of lemon-lime soda, pear, green apple, white pepper; with a soft minerality, fresh and very clean, acidic and yet round in the mouth. Super different, and I really liked this wine.

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NATURE SECRETE SAINT MONT RED “Nature Secrete”, 13% alcohol.

REGION Southwest France

APPELLATION Saint Mont

GRAPES 70% Tannat, 15% Pinenc, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon

VINTAGE 2018

 

TASTE

Generally characterized by a beautiful concentration of flavors, often revealing notes of red and black fruits such as blackcurrant.

PRODUCER

The Saint Mont appellation combines 200 wine growers who cultivate 1,200 hectares of vines. “The wines of Saint Mont are still very young, having been awarded AOVDQS status (Superior Quality Wine with a Designation of Origin) in 1981, and unanimously granted AOC status in 2011,” explains Eric Fitan, a wine grower and President of the Appellation.

My Notes:

Opaque and very dark purple was my observation of the color. The nose delivered notes of sweet stewed black and blue fruits, rich earth, black licorice, coffee bean and pipe smoke. On the mouth I was reminded of dried blueberries, crushed blackberries, black pepper, spices, a rich mouthfeel, dry and tannic with a medium finish.

 

About Southwest France Wines

Southwest France is the leader in grape diversity with up to 300 discovered grape varieties and 130 indigenous grape varieties, all of which produce a large array of outstanding wines in every color.

Home to the grapes that started it all, nearly half of the varieties in the region are indigenous. Some famous grapes such as Malbec and Cabernet Franc originate from the region. Known for its strong cultural roots and rich history unique to the terroir, these native varieties embody the legacy of Southwest France’s particular geography and centuries of careful selection. Southwest France invites you to discover its genuine pool of biodiversity and to discover true originally born from historic origins.

About Interprofession des Vins du Sud-Ouest France 

 Interprofession des Vins du Sud-Ouest (IVSO) is a professional organization of wine producers, cooperatives, and trading companies in the Southwestern corner of France. The organization represents 16 Protected Designation of Origin and 12 Protected Geographical Indication in this region of France bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the west, and Spain and the Pyrenees Mountains on the south, while other official organizations manage the remaining appellations of the Southwest France region. Headquartered in Toulouse, the IVSO is actively building its membership and increasing its promotion of the wines of Southwest France around the world.

For more information on the Wines of Southwest France, please visit their website.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits

Lodi, California: Home to a World of Winegrape Varieties

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Home to 125 varieties in production, the Lodi AVA is the most diverse winegrowing region in the United States. While it is the leading producer of many top California varieties including Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, what makes the region truly distinctive are the myriad of unusual grape varieties planted here. From Alicante Bouschet to Zweigelt, Lodi is a dazzling melting pot of global varieties. Take a peek to learn how Lodi came to grow the largest collection of German varieties outside Deutschland.

Dusky sky over Harney Lane vineyard, Sept. 2013-Credit Randy Caparoso

Lodi’s ideal Mediterranean-like climate is integral to the ability of different winegrapes to flourish within the region. Varying micro-climates across Lodi’s sub-appellations and sandy loam soils rich in granitic-based minerals create an ideal environment for diverse wine production. During the growing season, warm, sunny days allow for optimal ripening of winegrapes, while cool winds off the Pacific Ocean which travel inland over a network of waterways act as a natural air conditioner, helping grapes maintain racy acidity.

In addition to near-perfect terroir, Lodi’s success in winegrape diversification can be attributed to multi-generational winegrowing families who are dedicated to innovative and sustainable viticultural practices. Find out how the region’s LODI RULES for sustainable winegrowing program is ensuring fruitful longevity for years to come.

Les Légendes Bordeaux Wine Tasting

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The latest wines sent to me for review had a unique twist: They were from several different areas of Bordeaux, under one winery name, and all made by the same winemaker – but the real twist is that the brand, Les Légendes, is under the Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafitte) brand and their winemaker Diane Flamand. I was getting excited, and it turns out my excitement paid off. Below are my tasting notes, and below that information from Les Légendes.

Photo: Ed Bushman

-Les Légendes Bordeaux Blanc 2020 – $19

85% Sauvignon Blanc, 15% Semillon. Pale yellow in color, and the aromas reminded me of yellow apple, lemon zest, limeade, wet river rocks and a hint of local honey. Expecting a crisp palate…and the wine delivered, with that same lemon-lime acidity, cantaloupe melon, pears and I felt that the wine would be perfect for a cool breezy night after a hot day. Very lively and refreshing.

-Les Légendes Bordeaux Rouge 2018 – $19

Aromas of sweet ripe plums, milk chocolate, blackberry jam, black peppercorn, delicate red roses, some spice but in a nice balance with the fruit. The palate delivered dry dark cherry, blueberry, blackberry, delicious charred steak, peppery, lots of spice coming through and medium tannins. Pretty amazing for its youth and price point.

-Les Légendes Saint-Émilion 2018 – $40

The nose gave off waves of blue fruit, grilled mushroom, tri-color peppercorn, toasted oak and Indian spices; while the taste reminded me of a bowl of dark red cherries, peppery – but again in a very nice balance with the fruit – and also dark chocolate, soft raisins, with a nice long finish.

-Les Légendes Médoc 2018 – $26

Again I got that very dark plum, crushed berries, tobacco smoke, forest floor, green peppercorn and milk chocolate covered cherries. On the mouth I noted multi layers of dry dark fruit – as well as a hint of red fruit, mild pepper, chewy tannins and an incredible length. Again, I’m thinking a great tasting wine for a great value.

-Les Légendes Pauillac 2017 – $54

Very dark garnet color may be due to its age, opaque. Stewed red fruit, perfumy, toast, mint and something that reminded me of black licorice on the nose followed by flavors of bright red fruit, crushed blueberry, earthy, a rich mouthfeel, bracing tannins and another incredible length.

From Les Légendes

Légende offers consumers a journey through the different terroirs and tastes of the heralded Bordeaux region through the eyes of one of the region’s most prestigious producers, Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite). “It all started in the nineties. We wanted to offer our consumers a discovery of the different terroirs and tastes of Bordeaux. A name had to be found. A name that could live up to the expectations. A hint to the Rothschild family and the rich history of Château Lafite.
https://www.parkviewortho.com/wp-content/languages/new/sildenafil.html

A légende was born.”

Crafted by long-time Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) winemaker, Diane Flamand, Légende wines demonstrate a remarkable balance between tradition and modernity. With a product range that includes each of the five major appellations in Bordeaux: Bordeaux Rouge, Bordeaux Blanc, Médoc, Saint-Emilion and Pauillac, Légende wines have an approachable style, inspired by every day drinkability and enjoyment.

Les Légendes

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

South Coast Winery Garners Awards at Wine Competition

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TEMECULA, Calif. – South Coast Winery, owned by the Carter family, received three prestigious awards at the 2021 Toast of the Coast Wine Competition produced by the San Diego County Fair. Eighteen wine industry experts – sommeliers, wine journalists, consultants and wine business managers – participated in the judging, which took place late May at the festival held at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in Del Mar, Calif. The competition celebrates wineries from around the world producing the finest quality wines.

“This year as we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we are once again proud to have winning wines designated by The Toast of the Coast Competition adding to our impressive collection of over 3,000 wine accolades garnered throughout the years,” said Jeff Carter, president of Carter Hospitality, which owns South Coast Winery. “Our mission has always been to use expert knowledge and craft to produce the very best wines, retaining a sense of each varietal’s personality and terroir of origin.”

The 2017 South Coast Winery Meritage won the highest-level Double Gold reserved for the finest wines as agreed on unanimously by an assigned three judge panel and scoring 94 points or higher on a 100-point scale. Dark purple red in color, the aromas of blackberry and currants are the first thing noticed, while subtle herbal notes and warm, toasty oak aromas bring depth and structure to this complex wine. It is a classic quintet of Bordeaux varietals – cabernet sauvignon, merlot, petit verdot, malbec and carménère – blended to create a wine that is finely textured and nuanced from start to finish.

Silver award winner, South Coast Winery Grenache Noir Rosé, is light in body, crisp in acidity and very dry, delivering an elegant rosé and the perfect wine for any cuisine and festivity. It is nuanced with a hint of rosy color carrying delicate strawberry, raspberry and cotton candy aromas, married with refined citrus and floral notes. The winery’s NV South Coast Winery Sparkling Pinot Grigio also won a Silver award. Light and refreshing, this sparkler has notes of fresh Meyer lemon and key lime, crisp green apple and white nectarines. It is slightly effervescent and great for everyday celebrations.

A list of all winners and additional information is available at thetoastofthecoast.com.

About South Coast Winery Resort & Spa

The only winery among the state’s top wineries to claim the title of California Winery of the Year four times at the California State Fair Wine Competition, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa sets the gold standard for excellence amongst California wineries, earning more than 3,000 awards since its inception in 2003. Situated on 63 lush acres, the resort offers a breathtaking retreat for wine tours, romantic getaways and group events with 132 rooms and villas, a working winery and tasting room, gift shop, full-service spa and restaurant.

South Coast Winery offers a broad portfolio of 45 wine labels, the majority of which are available for sampling in its main tasting room – from robust reds such as Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Petit Syrah, Merlot and Pinot Noir to whites including Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Riesling. Also available are sparkling wines, dessert wines and other specialty offerings. The winery employs a staff of skilled winemakers, including master winemaker Jon McPherson and winemaker Javier Flores, both with decades of experience in the wine industry.

For more information, visit www.southcoastwinery.com.

About Carter Hospitality Group

Established in 2011, Carter Hospitality Group, LLC. is a family-owned hospitality company with four hotels and resorts as well as three wineries across the United States. Based in Orange County, California, the company manages and owns a portfolio of luxury properties including South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, Temecula, California; Carter Estate Winery and Resort, Temecula California; and Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa, Texas Hill Country. Carter Hospitality Group additionally serves as the owner-franchisee for Red Lion Hotel Orlando Lake Buena Vista South, Orlando Florida. For more information, visit www.carterhospitality.com.

“Experience Summer at the Pace of Portalegre, Portugal” via a 2019 Quinta da Fonte Souto Branco

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During this long summertime period the weight of the heat can be lifted…when I get a new-to-me wine for review.

This time it’s a 2019 Quinta da Fonte Souto Branco, DOC Alentejo, Portalegre. Before I opened the bottle to make my tasting notes I learned (see “more information” below) that the word fonte means water and the other word foreign to me, souto, means chestnut grove. Wine made with water from a chestnut grove sounded just perfect to me.

Also learned that this the grape, Arinto, a popular variety in Portugal, was blended with 25% Verdelho grapes to make this wine.

My Notes

Pretty light yellow with just the slightest tinge of shiny green grass in color, then came aromas that included sweet pineapple, green apple, cream, toast and a little ash – really different than what I’ve noted in any other white, must be the Arinto grape I’m unfamiliar with. On the taste, I noted crisp lemon-lime, lemon pith, tart apple, pineapple again and the fruit holding on for a long satisfying finish. There was a mild acidity, that also contributed to the finish, but it was the citrus – notably the lime and lemon – that really gripped the front of my palate. We enjoyed this wine with a Chicken Fettucine Alfredo, as I thought the crispness of the wine would serve to both cut through and complement the rich creamy sauce. And it did.

More Information

…experience the best of Portalegre in the Alentejo region of Portugal through Symington Family Estates’ expertly balanced offering. Hailing from a place where water “fonte” flows freely and the vineyards are touched by a sprawling “souto”, or chestnut grove, the 2019 Quinta da Fonte Souto Branco, DOC Alentejo, Portalegre (SRP $25) is a crisp white wine from Symington Family Estates’ foray in Southern Portugal.

…(this is) a white wine that truly embodies all the strengths of the estate’s unique terroir, like the freshness and balance afforded by the vineyard’s altitude of 1,640 feet and the concentration of flavor derived from mature, low-yielding vines which are nestled in schist and granite soils. In Portalegre, the 2019 vintage saw a dry and mild agricultural year, with shifts in diurnal temperatures in the hotter months resulting in even progression of maturity along with desirable preservation of acidity in the grapes.

The wine is a wonderful expression of the Arinto variety, which is widely regarded as Portugal’s finest white grape, and is accompanied by 25% of Verdelho. The grapes were handpicked and de-stemmed followed by a gentle crushing and then briefly fermented in stainless steel before aging in a combination of new French and central European oak. The result is a golden wine with aromas of subtle, smoky toast and hints of vanilla, floral, honeysuckle, and a touch of grapefruit. The palate gives way to a welcoming creamy texture, punctuated by hints of lichee, yellow plum, tea, and white pepper.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

It’s the Tropicana Wine Mixer! Sip, Pair, and Toast at Iconic Las Vegas Strip Resort September 24-26

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Sip, Pair, and Toast at Iconic Las Vegas Strip Resort
Tropicana Las Vegas to host wine mixer weekend September 24-26

LAS VEGAS – Las Vegas is back and ready to party. Mark your calendars and make your plans as It’s the Tropicana Wine Mixer and it’s certain to go down in history as one of the best weekends of the year. Tickets are on sale now as Tropicana Las Vegas welcomes locals and tourists to its inaugural wine event, Sept. 24-26.

 

Guests can expect to immerse themselves in a choose-your-own-adventure style weekend full of wine, food, learning, and fun at the iconic Tropicana Las Vegas. Join in the festivities celebrating the world of winemaking, tasting, and pairing with three days of world-class wine selections, classes, an opening Friday welcome party, a Saturday lunch and dinner party, and as the perfect end to a fabulous Vegas weekend, a fitting Sunday hangover brunch.

The fun kicks off Friday night, Sept. 24, with a welcome party of wine and hors d’oeuvres from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday offers a day packed with six unique and special classes.

Prosecco To Start The Day featuring La Marca Prosecco presented by E&J Gallo Winery. La Marca Prosecco— made from the expressive Glera grape—is found in the hillside vineyards of Italy’s Prosecco capital, Treviso, creating a clean, refreshing taste with a delicate, floral palate and bright acidity.

How To Taste Wine, presented by Trinchero, explores the importance of identifying aromas when evaluating wines and how tongues only recognize five flavors. Guests will broaden their library scents and flavor descriptions.

Wine and Cheese Pairing presented by Rodney Strong, with roots going back over 100 years, and Trinchero, a family legacy of great wines since 1948. Rodney Strong will be giving you an in-depth tutorial on flavor pairing with cheese based off of the knowledge learned in the class prior to this one.

Following the three morning classes, guests are welcomed to a lunch that includes tasting flagship wines with paired hors d’oeuvres and offers guests a chance to mix and mingle. Classes continue after lunch.

Types & Flavors of Red Wines showcases Pinot Noir from around the world presented by Chateau Ste Michelle, Washington state’s oldest and acclaimed winery featuring award-winning wines. Learn the history of these wines and taste the difference a terroir makes!

Interested in learning how to make wine? Join the class on Wine Making with Jackson Family Wine. Guests will be utilizing their own personal Kendall-Jackson VR Chardonnay blending kit to create their own personal flavor profile.

Types & Flavors of White Wines presented by Rodney Strong. Taste through white varietals that comprise their signature UpShot white blend.

Recap your learnings and celebrate your new wine knowledge with a festive Saturday Happy Hour while sampling all the flavors of the day with vendor booths, meat and cheese pairings, a silent auction, and live music. Saturday evening ends with dinner paired with a choice of red or white wine while a Sommelier teaches about wine pairings.

After such an eventful Saturday, the Hangover Brunch on Sunday, Sept. 26, will be a sweet ending to the weekend with rosé wine, mimosas, and breakfast!

Tickets can be purchased for individual events and classes starting at $40, or guests can purchase an all-access weekend pass for the entire weekend for $200 plus tax and fees. For more information, a schedule of events and classes, and to purchase tickets, visit www.troplv.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

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ABOUT TROPICANA LAS VEGAS®
Set on the famed Four Corners with commanding views of the Las Vegas Strip, Tropicana Las Vegas – a DoubleTree by Hilton is a Penn National Gaming destination and boasts stylish rooms, suites and luxury villas, complete with acclaimed restaurants, premier entertainment options and a 50,000-square-foot casino. The resort redefines the expectations of today’s global travelers by providing a casually elegant experience on The Strip, all with a South Beach rhythm and vibe. The property also features Glow® a Mandara Spa and fitness center, Laugh Factory Comedy Club, and restaurants such as Oakville Tuscan Grill, Red Lotus and Robert Irvine’s Public House, plus on-the-go options Trop and Go as well as Starbucks. For more information, visit www.troplv.com.

Brännland Cider awarded IWSCs inaugural ice cider trophy

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At IWSC:s inaugural international judging for cider produced as wine from 100% apple juice Brännland Cider won a number of medals, out of which five gold, in the class “Ice Cider – naturally cold produced”. The ice cider judged as the best in the entered field, taking home the class trophy, was Brännland Iscider Barrique 2013. The jury gave it 97 points and wrote:
”Aromatic and giving on the nose. The palate is elegant yet rich with fresh walnuts, spicy nutmeg and cinnamon wrapped around caramelised oranges and orange peel. This is so well balanced with great acidity. Complex example with depth and a long finish.”

Andreas Sundgren, founder, Brännland Cider,

“We made the decision a few years ago to stop competing but when we heard about the IWSC initiative this spring we felt the time had come for an exception. The IWSC puts its focus on judging rather than competition which strengthens an entire field of producers and they have, as the first organisation in Europe, split the ice cider class into two categories, differentiating between ice cider produced using natural cold and ice cider produced by other means, in line with the AOC in the country of origin. IWSC:s global position together with a strong jury made it impossible not to participate. We are honored and happy to have won these medals and to be a part of this historic initiative by the IWSC.”

Brännland Cider’s ice ciders are available in a number of international markets.
About Brännland Cider

Brännland Cider was founded a decade ago with the vision of creating a world class sweet wine using Swedish apples only and guided by the same principles as the greatest sweet wine producers around the world. In its ten years of existence the company has taken place in some of the world’s best restaurants to be served alongside legends like Yquem and Müller.

The company, situated on latitude 63 at par with Iceland, Greenland and Alaska, focuses entirely on ice cider, a sweet dessert wine born in the early 1990s in Quebec, Canada. The light warm summers and cold winters of the sub-arctic are ideally suited to produce ice cider. Parallel to developing European ice cider Brännland Cider are establishing the world’s northern most apple orchards.

The vision is a singular ice cider born out of singular and unique terroir. A truly Nordic terroir that can grow and develop for a century and beyond and rival the finest wine making regions in the world.

About the IWSC

  • With over 50 years of experience, the IWSC, or Club Oenologique as it was called back in 1969, was the first official wine and spirit competition.
  • The IWSC is proud to set the international benchmark for quality, standing out in the crowded world of drinks awards with hundreds of global experts.
  • IWSC judges consist of a mix of wine and spirit experts, such as leading sommeliers, Master of Wines and Master Sommeliers, and distillers from across the globe.
  • The IWSC is the go-to platform for having your wines or spirits tasted and reviewed by leading decision-makers from both the off- and on-trades, as well as by key influencers.
  • Whether you are looking for new distribution channels, local or global exposure, product benchmarking, greater brand awareness or simply expert feedback, the IWSC is there for you.
Brännland Cider produces ice cider using 100% Swedish apples for a national and international market. The company’s first vintage, an ice cider produced in the Swedish county of Västerbotten, not far from the arctic circle, using Swedish apples in adherence to the denomination set in the country of origin of ice cider, Canada, was released in 2012.

Two rare bottles of 1889 Tokaji Essencia, Zimmerman Lipot by the Jewish Zimmerman family to be offered at auction

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Two bottles of incredibly rare 1889 Tokaji Essencia, Zimmerman Lipot from Hungary’s most renowned wine region Tokaj and from the most famous family to produce it, will be offered in Dreweatts Fine and Rare Wine and Spirits sale on July 8, 2021. The Tokaji Blend is a term used to describe the varietal composition of the revered wines of Tokaj, Hungary and the area and vineyard, which have an impassioned history, centred around the first winemakers of the region, the Jewish Zimmerman family. 

This photo is NOT of the wines in this auction, it is just to give you an idea and photo credit goes to FinestAndRarest.com

The Zimmermann family were wealthy Jewish landowners, creating the region’s legendary sweet wine from first-growth vineyards from the 19thcentury until World War II. They had numerous vineyards across Tokaj and approximately 60 cellars and lived in an elegant townhouse in Mád, as well as having a second residence in Abaújszántó. Highly successful, their wines were prized, receiving several gold medals at competitions in Berlin in 1892 and Paris in 1896. The company continued to flourish with offices in Budapest, Berlin, Katowice, London and New York, until the occupation of Hungary by Germany in 1944. It was then under General Dome Sztojay and SS Colonel Adolf Eichmann that 437,402 Hungarian Jews were deported to Auschwitz, amongst them the Zimmerman family, in an attempt to eradicate the last intact Jewish community in occupied Europe. The vineyards were left to fall into disrepair and eventually taken over by the communist state when Hungary fell to the Red Army in 1945 and communism ruled until the 1980s.

It was in 1990 following the fall of communism, that the first foreign investor in the region purchased the land and vineyards. British wine writer Hugh Johnson acquired it from more than 60 individuals, who had bought it when it was privatized some years before. In doing so, he founded the winery known as Royal Tokaji, which has established itself as one of Hungary’s most foremost wineries. The region of Tokaj was also designated a world heritage site in 2002.

In June 2016, six descendants of the Zimmerman family’s holocaust survivors unveiled two plaques at the front of the headquarters of the Royal Tokaji wineries in Hungary, recognizing the family’s unequivocal link to the history of winemaking in the region and in tribute to the Jewish community there that lost their lives.

The first plaque reads: This was the home of Miklos and Blanka Zimmermann and their two children and the second notes the former home of Lajos and Margit Zimmerman. The signs also go on to note the Zimmerman family’s long history of involvement in: the cultivation, production and marketing of Tokaji wines, since the early 1800s. 

The two bottles of 1889 Tokaji Essencia, Zimmerman Lipot being offered for sale at Dreweatts are therefore exceptionally rare and are almost a slice of history. Mark Roberston, Head of the Wine department at Dreweatts says, “One can almost distil the political history of Europe in the 19th and 20th century through Tokaji” and regarding the wine itself he comments; “The free run juice of the aszu grapes can take 6 or 7 years to ferment fully to a maximum 3-7%. This supernatural concentration of sweetness is beautifully married with an unusual level of acidity creating a wine that can age effortlessly across the centuries. Traditionally served on a crystal spoon, what an experience awaits”.

Michael Broadbent, MW describes it as follows, “Several consistent notes. Most memorably, on my first visit to Budapest in 1972, with Josef Dömöter, Head of the Hungarian Wine Trust and Fred May, the UK Monimpex importer. Neither had ever tasted an old Eszencia before.

I opened it in Herr Dömöter’s office, to great wonder and satisfaction, and took the remaining half the following morning to Tokaj, where, in Tarcal, I had lunch with the technical Head of the Research Institute for Viticulture. He didn’t like it! Briefly: a deep, warm amber; glorious fragrance, rich, chocolatey, spicy; sweet of course, plump, concentrated taste of singed sultanas, excellent acidity. Last tasted in Leiden Nov 1982 *****”

Mark Robertson concludes, “These are important bottles and I hope they are enjoyed with a chink of the glass to the man and his family who made them”. They carry an estimate of £500-£1,000 per 500 ml bottle and will be sold in two separate lots.

Vera Wang Debuts Prosecco

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NEW YORK, /PRNewswire/ — Vera Wang is proud to announce PARTY, a premium Italian prosecco made for celebrating life’s moments, big and small!

 

Photo from: Ravitz ShopRite Wines & Spirits

PARTY embodies the Bright, FUN and Fashion-Forward side of the globally renowned Designer and Style Icon…with the same bold spirit that transformed fashion by reimagining the bridal space, Vera Wang is now turning her creativity and passion for design toward how — and what — we celebrate.

“First and foremost, I am a Designer, but I am also an entrepreneur and brand builder. I’ve dedicated my entire life to designing how people celebrate, and not just their weddings – from what they wear to how they entertain, from their tableaus and tablescapes, to how they live at home – and now, what they drink! PARTY is a natural extension of what I already do,” says Vera Wang. “Why prosecco? CELEBRATION! When I think of romance, fun, laughter, joy, friendship, I think of prosecco, it is the wine that personifies emotion and sheer happiness.”

Vera Wang’s attention to detail has shaped every step of PARTY from grape to bottle. Designed to look chic on any table, the bottle is a sleek matte silver with “PARTY” in bold neon yellow letters exuding a modern, easy sensibility. The back of the bottle features an invitation to PARTY from Vera.

“This project involved input from my friends, family, even clients. A sort of family affair!”

To craft the prosecco Vera Wang looked to find a winemaker with both heritage and pedigree. She turned to the top winemaking region Piemonte, known for its sparkling wines, and to Araldica, producer of the best-selling Moscato in America. Led by second-generation winemaker Claudio Manera, it is one of Italy’s fastest-growing producers and most forward-thinking winemaking co-operative. Manera continues his father’s commitment to Italy’s winemaking traditions, preserving local varieties, protecting the environment and valuing the characteristics of each wine.

“At Araldica we celebrate our roots, land and people, balancing our drive for innovation with respect to tradition,” explains Manera. “Vera Wang has our same philosophy, making this collaboration organic for us. This wine speaks to her fresh perspective, taste, passion and dedication to crafting a premium prosecco.”

Retailed at $25, Vera Wang PARTY is crafted from 100% Glera grapes and boasts aromas of apple and stone fruit, citrus notes and fresh acidity on the palate, with a soft and fruity finish. This new prosecco offers a fresh perspective in the sparkling wine category with its crisp effervescence, coupled with a bold aesthetic and playful voice. Vera Wang PARTY is currently available, and consumers are encouraged to visit VeraWangParty.com for more information on the wine or where to purchase it.

As society reimagines what it looks like to gather, Vera Wang’s PARTY reimagines what it looks like to celebrate. It’s what we could all use right now – a little bit of fun, a little bit of joy, and a new way to commemorate life’s meaningful moments.

ABOUT VERA WANG: A native New Yorker who spent her career at the forefront of fashion, Vera Wang began a sweeping makeover of the bridal industry in 1990 with the opening of her flagship salon at the Carlyle Hotel in New York City. Today, the flagship continues to showcase collections known for sophistication, extraordinary detailing and a cool, modern sensibility.

In 2000, Vera Wang’s enthusiasm for couture resulted in the launch of her highly acclaimed ready-to-wear collection. The Council of Fashion Designers of America honored Vera Wang by naming her “Womenswear Designer of the Year” in 2005. Wang has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades but most notably she was awarded the prestigious Legion of Honor, an order of distinction by the Republic of France. The Vera Wang brand reflects her vision to create a lifestyle that goes beyond core bridal and ready-to-wear, and into publishing, fragrance, beauty, accessories and home. Driven by artistic, modern, luxurious design and a high level of customer service, Vera Wang’s collections hold impeccable customer appeal.

Vera Wang collaborates with leading global partners and manufactures the majority of its bridal collection in company-owned workrooms in the United States. www.verawang.com.

Perlises Pick: What Wines We Are Drinking At Home – Part 5

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We were initially planning to continue this series on lighter wines that we are enjoying at home with some more Northern California wineries, but the recent collaboration with Eve reviewing some rosés pointed Karen and me in another direction.

Ted Plemons of Cass

We drink rosés all year long but I realize that some wine drinkers especially fancy them in warmer months so it seemed like a good time to report specifically on a few of those that we have been pleased with recently.

One rosé that we really have been fond of is called “And Why Am I Mr. Pink?” – interesting name, no? The wine is produced by the Underground Wine Project, which is an intriguing name in its own right. I contacted them for more info, and they suggested I reach out to Trey Busch, Winemaker/Partner of the well-known and highly regarded Washington state winery Sleight of Hands Cellars. His response:

“Thanks for writing, and hope your liver has been holding up this past year :).

 The Underground Wine Project is a collaboration between Sleight of Hand Cellars and Mark Ryan Winery.  Mark and I have been friends for a long time, and we started the brand in 2007 with 100 cases of Syrah. That has transformed into adding And Why Am I Mr. Pink? to the lineup, as well as our 2 red wines, Idle Hands and Devils Playground. 

 We wanted an edgier brand than either of us have now, and the UWP allows for us to play in that area. Our Mr. Pink Rosé is mostly Sangio with some Syrah as well. All stainless steel (no barrel aging). We wanted to make a porch pounder rosé and this fits the bill. Juicy, terrific fruit, but then awesome acidity to hold it all together. We are making about 14,000 cases a year with the goal to increase production moving forward. National exposure with Whole Foods has helped.”

 From Karen for the 2018 vintage: White/pink floral nose, light to medium finish, clean mouthfeel, moderate pear fruit, definitely a porch pounder as we were relishing it on our backyard patio on a warm Saturday evening with light nibbles for dinner.

Another winery that I’ve been a big fan of over the years Cass Winery in Paso Robles. [Yep, Paso again. I make no excuses, Paso wines are some of our favorites.] And I couldn’t pass up their special offer for Valentine’s Day of a dozen rosés. [Get it? Of course you do.]

From Karen for the 2019 vintage of the Cass Oasis Rosé: White flower floral note, dry medium body, red ripe berry fruit from the 63% Mourvedre, fresh, soft and hint of sweetness from the 37% Grenache.

Finally, an article about rosés wouldn’t be complete without the one that Karen has pronounced as her favorite for the last few years from Hoi Polloi winery right here in the Santa Clarita Valley. Doug Minnick [one of the founders of the Garagiste Festivals – I am so looking forward to these returning!] and his partners produce an assortment of terrific wines.

From Karen for the 2018 vintage of the Hoi Polloi Rosé from the Colburn Vineyard, Paso Robles: Fresh, crisp, true strawberry nose, medium to long clean finish, elegant, well-rounded body, silky soft tannins, this rosé of Grenache never fails to deliver!

Underground Wine Project

www.theundergroundwineproject.com

Cass Winery

www.casswines.com

Hoi Polloi

www.hoipolloiwinery.com

 

Michael Perlis has been pursuing his passion for wine for more than 30 years. He has had the good fortune of having numerous mentors to show him the way, as well as a wonderful wife who encourages him and shares his interest. After a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting wineries and vineyards, and tasting as much wine as he possibly could, he had the amazing luck to meet Eve Bushman. Now, as Contributing Editor for Eve’s Wine 101, he does his best to bring as much information as possible about wine to Eve’s Wine 101 faithful readers.