Eve's Wine 101

Cava Completes 2022 Harvest, the Inaugural Vintage Differentiating Cavas de Guarda Superior

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2022 harvest is a milestone for the D.O., the first that producers identify and separate grapes from selected plots destined for Cavas de Guarda Superior

VILAFRANCA DEL PENEDÈS —The 2022 harvest for Cava producers marks the first for the D.O. that grapes from plots dedicated exclusively to Cavas de Guarda Superior were separated at reception at the winery and during vinification. Sorting took place via a digital platform with approximately 100 monitors communicating data in real-time.

As of 2020, quality regulations have introduced the new Cava de Guarda Superior category as Cavas with minimum 18 months lees aging. Additionally, the grapes destined for these Cavas must come from specific vineyards, and, by 2025, must be sourced from 1005 organically farmed vineyards. Organic Cava production has increased by more than 245% in the last five years, from four million bottles in 2016 to 13.8 million in 2020. The president of the Regulatory Council, Javier Pagés, announced: “The organic vineyard surface area continues to grow due to the rising demand for Guarda Superior grapes.”

Although high temperatures and lack of rainfall during the growing season reduced overall volume for the 2022 vintage, the resulting grape quality was exceptionally high. Harvest kicked off earlier than usual at the beginning of August due to constant above-average temperatures and the successive heat waves in late spring and early. Even later-ripening varieties were harvested earlier than usual, making for a shorter, more condensed harvest season.

The harvesting of Cava grape varieties began in early August with the Macabeo variety in the Viñedos de Almendralejo, and in Comtats de Barcelona (more specifically, the Pla de Ponent sub-zone) with Chardonnay. Next, harvesting began in the Serra de Mar, Valls d’Anoia-Foix, and Conca del Gaià sub-zones. The last areas to harvest were the Valle del Ebro, the Levante zone, and the Serra de Prades sub-zone (located in the Comtats de Barcelona).

Lower yields within the D.O. Cava were in line with a general decrease in grape yields across other wine-producing D.O.s. The fruit was exceptionally healthy throughout the entire growing season, and grapes were harvested at optimal sugar ripeness with sufficient phenolic ripeness and acidity.

The D.O. Cava maintained its control and traceability requirements for this harvest, using technology to verify the origin of the grapes of all of the D.O.’s winery members. According to Javier Pagés, this task “is essential and positions the Cava D.O. among the most demanding designations in the world.” The traceability is reflected in the new quality certified labels that launched in the beginning of 2022 and are expected to gradually reach their maximum market availability in 2023.

About D.O. Cava

With more than 70% of international sales, Cava is the Spanish D.O. which exports the most wine: its 349 associated wineries are present in over 100 countries. The D.O. encompasses more than 93,900 acres of vineyards and more than 6,200 winegrowers. Cava is a quality sparkling wine that pairs perfectly with every type of food, and is made using the traditional method, with a strict commitment to origin, land, and sustainability.

Web: Cava.wine 

Facebook: facebook.com/do.cava  

Instagram: instagram.com/Cava.do/ 

Twitter: twitter.com/DO_Cava

YouTube: youtube.com/c/doCava

Renegade Rum Launches New Terroir-Driven Pre-Cask Collection

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NEW YORK (PRWEB) – Renegade Rum Distillery, the game-changing terroir-driven rum project based in Grenada, announces the August launch of a diverse new selection of four flavorsome Pre-Cask white rums in the United States. An industry-challenging enterprise from Mark Reynier, the man behind the renaissance of Islay’s Bruichladdich single malt whisky and multi-award winning Waterford Whisky, Renegade Rum seeks to explore the effect terroir, cane variety and distillation style has on the flavor of rum.

The cane plant, rum’s primary raw ingredient, is the natural source of its flavor. Thus the land on which it grows and its microclimate determines its character. With these details in mind, Renegade Rum chose to explore the terroirs of Grenada one place, one farm, at a time – to be shared initially as these fresh, vibrant spirits before cask ageing.

Pure and intense building blocks of flavor, the Renegade Rum Pre-Cask Collection of rums are for spirits connoisseurs to compare and contrast original nuances, but they will also have appeal to those searching for inherently and authentically flavorsome white spirits to create cocktails rooted in real provenance. So distinct are these cane-derived spirits that the first Pre-Cask Collection of white rums that were available in late 2021 in Europe, have already sold out with the trade and won notable awards, including Best New Rum at Vinexpo, Paris.

Renegade Rum CEO Mark Reynier says, “We are delighted to share more Pre-Cask bottlings for the curious, to explore with us these new realms of natural flavor derived from sugar cane. They are for spirits connoisseurs searching for authenticity and transparency. And as the building blocks of our Renegade Rum, we have discovered they also make for intensely flavored, ultra high-provenance ingredients for the most discerning cocktail enthusiasts.”

“Even though these are among our first distillates, we have been delighted with their award-winning reception and the fact that we have commenced serious discussions around terroir, traceability and transparency in rum, adds Mark. This is a prelude, of course, to our aged rum – and we look forward to sharing our first serious studies with the world this autumn.”

The four Single Farm Origin white rums to be released in the United States within the Pre-Cask Collection are as follows:

Single Farm Origin: Nursery – The genesis of our pioneering project to propagate entirely clean & healthy heritage cane varieties began at our nursery farm. Nestled in La Calome Valley, with its almost terraced valley floor, it is made up of Hartman & Woburn clay loam soils & a profusion of volcanic boulders. For this rum we harvested the sucrose-rich variety we call Yellow Lady from “big pumps” field, which stands on the terroir known as Upper La Calome.

  • Terroir: Upper La Calome
  • Cane Variety: Yellow Lady
  • Pot Still

Single Farm Origin: Hope – On the island’s south-eastern flank, sheltered from the Atlantic Trade Winds by a narrow mangrove belt, stands this distinctive terroir. Bright, iron-red clay & pyroclastic boulders & rich, alluvial soil & its cool, high water table ensures a humid microclimate with lush cane in the driest season. For this rum we harvested the oldest of our varieties, Cain, from Mamo Field, which stands on the terroir known as Boulders.

  • Terroir: Boulders
  • Variety: Cain
  • Pot Still

Single Farm Origin: Lake Antoine – Lower Crater Lake South and Upper Crater Lake South – At Lake Antoine, intriguing terroirs wrap around the steep, seaward-facing slopes of a volcanic crater lake, where cane grows on granular Woburn clay loam – sparse & dry at the summit, deep & rich at the foot – fully exposed to the desiccating salt-laden Atlantic trade Winds. For these two rums we harvested the sucrose-rich variety we call Purple Tallboy from two fields, one from Ball Pasture Field, which stands on the terroir known as Lower Crater Lake South and the second from More Field, which stands on the terroir known as Upper Crater Lake South.

  • Terroirs: Lower Crater and Upper Crater Lake South
  • Variety: Purple Tallboy
  • Pot Still

The Renegade Rum Pre-Cask Collection of Single Farm Origin: Nursery, Hope and Lake Antoine Lower Crater & Upper Crater Lake South are each 50% ABV and are available in 700ml bottles for $65 in fine retail stores. Renegade Rum is imported by Glass Revolution Imports.

Situated on the mountainous, volcanic, Caribbean island of Grenada, the modern marvel that is the Renegade Rum Distillery was designed precisely to extol individuality, with extended temperature-controlled fermentation for purity, and considered distillation for gravitas. The purpose-built, state-of-the-art distillery is the first of its scale to have been designed from the ground up for terroir-bred sugarcane. As well as cutting-edge still design and digital logistics, the Renegade Rum Distillery uses sophisticated technology for air filtration and water purification of waste streams, thus ensuring distilling systems run in rhythm with natural systems.

Each bottle of Renegade Rum will feature an innovative CaneCode which includes all the information about the farm, cane variety and terroir showcasing total transparency for spirits enthusiasts. More information can be found at: https://renegaderum.com/canecode/

In addition, Renegade Rum has also recently launched its cask offering. This is a unique opportunity for anyone to acquire a cask of their own super-premium quality rum – distilled from pure cane juice derived from an individual Single Farm Origin – to be bottled with a personalized label. There are options for French Oak hogsheads matured in the Caribbean, and “Early Landed” American oak barrels, which will be aged in Europe. More information can be found at: https://renegaderum.com/renegade-cask-offer/

About Renegade Rum: Renegade Rum is a game-changing rum distillery located in Grenada, using fresh sugar cane juice rather than generic molasses (a by-product of sugar production), grown on the diverse terroirs of Grenada in the Caribbean. We began producing our first spirit in the autumn of 2020. The cane plant, rum’s primary raw ingredient, is the natural source of its flavor. Thus, the land on which it grows & its microclimate determines its character. Therefore, we choose to explore the terroirs of Grenada – one place, one farm, at a time. For more information, please visit https://renegaderum.com/

Redemption Launches Sur Lee Straight Rye Whiskey, a First-of-Its-Kind Innovation

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Old world French winemaking meets 95% rye whiskey to deliver an unparalleled bold, rich and smooth whiskey experience.

STAMFORD, Conn., /PRNewswire/ — Continuing the brand’s commitment to deliver rare and unique rye-forward offerings, Redemption Whiskey announces the release of the latest addition to the brand’s highly sought after award-winning Specialty Series: Redemption Sur Lee Straight Rye Whiskey. Redemption Sur Lee was created utilizing a first-of-its-kind whiskey-making technique inspired by the French sur lie winemaking process and designed to add layers of complexity and roundness.

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9090551-redemption-launches-sur-lee-straight-rye-whiskey/ 

The resulting whiskey is an entirely unique expression of rye, with rich taste, buttery notes, a silky finish and a hint of rye spice.

This whiskey innovation begins with Redemption’s award-winning classic pre-Prohibition rye mash bill, which boasts a rye content of 95%. Redemption then broke conventional whiskey-making norms by adding the flavorful backset that comes off the still during distillation, called the “whiskey lees,” into the barrels before aging. By periodically rotating the barrels during the aging process, the “lees” and whiskey continually interact and naturally infuse the whiskey with even more flavor. The “sur lee” method invigorates the rye’s complexity to further enhance and develop the whiskey. Before bottling, Sur Lee is non-chill filtered to maintain optimal flavors and aromas. The end result is a whiskey that’s deep and complex with a floral upfront, nutty backdrop and decadent, buttery notes of toasted marshmallow, maple and nutmeg, balanced with a lingering spicy finish.

Said Tom Steffanci, President of Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits, which produces Redemption: “At the beginning of our creation process, we were curious to see what flavors would be imparted if we applied a technique similar to the French winemaking sur lie process to our amazing classic rye mash bill. We spent a lot of time adjusting the approach to get it just right and we are delighted with the delicious outcome. I can’t wait to hear from consumers once they have the opportunity to taste it.” 

Redemption Sur Lee is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks. The striking bottle design, featuring a silkscreen label and metallic accents, artistically explains Sur Lee’s ground-breaking process, beautifully showcasing how the old-world winemaking process was applied to transform the whiskey.

Redemption Sur Lee Straight Rye Whiskey, a very limited release, is available in NY, DE, FL, CA, TX, and MA, from October 1st and while supplies last with a suggested retail price of $59.99/750 ML.

In addition to this newest release, the Redemption Specialty Series portfolio includes the award-winning Redemption Cognac Cask Finish, Redemption Wheated Bourbon, Redemption Rum Cask Finish, and Redemption High Rye Bourbon Single Barrel Select. Whiskey lovers are also invited to enjoy the award-winning Redemption Rye, Redemption High Rye Bourbon, and Redemption Bourbon classic whiskeys, and coveted Limited Edition Barrel Proof offerings.


To learn more, click here.About Redemption Whiskey

Redemption is leading the rye revival, with a full range of bold and spicy super-premium award-winning whiskeys that are masterfully aged and blended. Nearly lost for a century, modern drinkers are rediscovering rye’s spicy, rebellious nature, complex enough to be enjoyed neat, with a strong enough backbone to stand up in cocktails. It is a classic American comeback story, one that is only just beginning as Redemption continually pushes boundaries – and expectations – in whiskey innovation. Redemption Whiskey has been named a Hot Prospect Brand by Shanken’s IMPACT three consecutive years (2018-2020), the 2022 World’s Best Bourbon (2022 San Francisco Spirits Awards) and is the 2021 Rye Whiskey Brand of the Year according to the NY International Spirits Competition. www.redemptionwhiskey.com

About Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits

Initially called W.J. Deutsch & Sons Ltd., the company was founded in 1981 by Chairman Bill Deutsch to market quality wines produced by prestigious families from major wine regions of the world. In 2009, it announced the expansion of the award-winning company to include a spirits portfolio. Today the company is renowned for its brand-building prowess and its ability to meet the needs of the modern consumer. Bill’s son Peter Deutsch is CEO; thus, two generations of the Deutsch family work side by side in their continuous quest to build strong brands and relationships throughout the wine and spirits industry.

The portfolio includes award-winning wines from Australia: [ yellow tail ]; [ yellow tail ] Pure Bright; California: Bellacosa; Girard Winery, Joseph Carr, Josh Cellars, Josh Cellars Reserve, Layer Cake; The Calling; France: Beau Joie Champagne, Cave de Lugny, Fleurs de Prairie, Hob Nob Vineyards, Sauvion et Fils; Italy: Barone Fini, Villa Pozzi; New Zealand: The Crossings; Portugal: Quinta Do Vale Meao; Argentina: Clos de los Siete; and award-winning spirits: Redemption Whiskey, Bib & Tucker Bourbon, Masterson’s Rye, Luksusowa Vodka and Gray Whale Gin. www.deutschfamily.com

©2022 Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits, Stamford, CT. Straight Rye Whiskey. 47% Alc./Vol. 94 Proof. Please drink responsibly. 

Wines ‘Til Sold Out (WTSO.com) Launches Premium Subscription Service

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MOORESTOWN, N.J./PRNewswire/ — Wines ‘Til Sold Out (WTSO) has a new kind of wine club subscription, the WTSO Monthly Subscription experience. In the monthly shipments, wine enthusiasts of all levels are invited to sip on 2-3 premium selections that are meticulously chosen. It highlights some rare, luxurious wines from around the world and their stories — all at a discount price that WTSO is known for providing to customers. Each set is available at the low rate of $99.99 per month. Included in the subscription service is a live virtual class, where members are encouraged to be interactive with professionals and among the community. On top of that, there’s expected to be many more exclusive events for this group.

The series to kick off the launch is a duo of Brunello. This popular Italian wine is a favorite with its 2 year minimum oak-aging process bringing out the best of the cherry flavors and a layered finish. The release of Brunellos, after a mandatory five-year period from the harvest, keeps fans anticipating each new vintage from the Tuscan vineyards. All members who subscribe during the first month will receive a limited-edition gift box. The special offer is valued over $200 and contains deluxe gifts from WTSO’s partners such as Repour Wine Savers and Gabriel-Glas.

“WTSO has a reputation of sourcing wines that meet high standards and making them widely available to consumers across the country. Our customers have expressed interest in learning the true value of wines they’re drinking. We’re listening because I think it’s important to know and understand how they’re made, the terroir, and differences in quality. This new membership extends our mission of providing accessibility to purchase and learn the narratives of all these fine wines. It makes drinking them that much more special,” says Joe Arking, Co-Founder and CEO of Wines ‘Til Sold Out.

The WTSO Monthly Subscription comes from a history of curated wine experiences that the company has developed and transformed over the years. In 2016, they introduced Weekly Tasting sets handpicked by wine partners from around the country. Together with these industry experts, they brought wine education directly to the customer through a robust YouTube channel. During the height of the pandemic of 2020, the company launched WTSO Live to bring the community together via Zoom through these curated sets. With the rise of video conferencing, this new virtual format greatly expanded the reach and convenience of the educational series.

Running off the success of WTSO Live, the new signature tasting series takes it all to the next level. Each month provides a unique opportunity to bring the labels to life. The subscription offers an easier way to gain access into the wonderful world of wine. For instance, WTSO Monthly Subscription events hope to offer direct connection and conversations with the winemakers themselves, as well as other industry professionals. In addition, there’s direct access to the company’s in-house wine expert for further recommendations.

Current host, Marc Supsic, is a professional certified by institutions like the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) and UC Davis California. He says, “I’m excited to be directly engaged with the wine community that WTSO built. We’re going to spend time with some fantastic wines that are not readily available unless you subscribe to a specific winery. The WTSO Monthly Subscription provides more access to those same prestigious brands with less fees. They’re really special wines, and I’m glad to be a part of this new journey.”

After the inaugural Brunello set, the series is slated to feature wines that will pair perfectly with seasonal holiday plans. Subscribers can be prepared to welcome Autumn with Cabernet Sauvignon, Champagne, and Burgundy wines.

For more information and to view a special introductory offer for the first shipment, visit wtso.com/wine-subscription. Learn more by following WTSO on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram.

About Wines ‘Til Sold Out (WTSO.com) 
Wines ‘Til Sold Out (WTSO) has a mission to create a first-class wine experience by providing accessibility to wine enthusiasts across the United States. At the core of WTSO is strong, lasting relationships throughout the industry to source a great variety of high-quality wines at the best prices. With a vast network of experts, they provide detailed knowledge and foster an engaged wine community. Known for their dedication to customer service, WTSO stands behind their brand and products by backing each and every experience with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

The Second Edition of The “Barolo En Primeur” Charity Auction To Take Place on October 28, 2022

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NEW YORK (PRWEB) – The Barolo en Primeur auction will take place on October 28, 2022 at the Grinzane Castle in Piedmont, Italy, and will stream live to New York City. Like the first edition, the auction will feature 15 barriques, each yielding approximately 300 bottles of the most recent Barolo vintage, 2021. The event is organized by Cassa di Risparmio di Cuneo Foundation in partnership with the Consorzio di Tutela Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe e Dogliani, representing almost 540 wine producers in Piedmont, Italy, in collaboration with Christie’s global auction house, and internationally renowned wine critic, Antonio Galloni.

The first edition of Barolo En Primeur was an international success, raising an impressive donation of 660,000 euros for 17 charities. All donations were awarded directly to projects in the non-profit field, as selected by the organizers and donors.

“With this operation, the only one of its kind, CRC Foundation has created a charity event at the national and international level, focusing on a single territory, its beauties, singularities and products of excellence, creating an innovative event that will generate important social benefits,” commented Ezio Raviola, President of Cassa di Risparmio di Cuneo Foundation.

The 15 barriques that will be available at auction contain wine made from grapes from the historic Cascina Gustava Vineyard, Grinzane, a four-hectare (9.8 acres) vineyard dedicated solely to Nebbiolo, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The wine was produced and vinified by Donato Lanati, the internationally renowned enologist.

Again, this year the proceeds will be donated to social projects and initiatives in the fields of health, research, the arts and culture, as well as those promoting social inclusion and safeguarding of the Italian cultural heritage.

“The Barolo En Primeur event represents an initiative of highly scientific, educational and human value, capable of combining various aspects: the promotion of the wine-growing area, of which the vineyard is the mainstay, research with in-the-field teaching, and the important social aims pursued by the CRC Foundation,” explained Lanati.

In addition to the 15 barriques, this second edition will include participation from wine producers of the Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe and Dogliani Consortium, who will auction a selection of the most prized bottles of Barolo and Barbaresco coming from prestigious villages of both appellations, which include 10 lotti comunali (seven lots of Barolo 2021 from different Comuni (municipalities) and three 2021 Barbaresco lots).

“The Barolo en Primeur charity event is not only of great historical and social importance but is also highly significant for the Barolo wine sector, which is projected at an international level,” added Matteo Ascheri, President of the Consortium for the Protection of Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe and Dogliani.

The 300 bottles from each barrique and the bottles from the wineries will be ready in 2025, following the mandatory aging process for Barolo, and will be numbered and marked with a label specially created by an internationally renowned artist. This is a unique opportunity for wine connoisseurs, collectors, investors, and philanthropists, who are invited to take part in an international charity initiative that showcases one of the most world-renowned Italian wine appellations, its values of quality and sustainability, its territory, and the good causes that will benefit from it.

Ahead of Barolo en Primeur 2022, Antonio Galloni, who tasted the wine of each barrique, will publish his tasting notes in Vinous Media, so that potential bidders can read his opinion about how these rare wines capture the essence of Barolo and of the Gustava Vineyard, and their long ageability.

“The event offers collectors an unprecedented opportunity to participate in a philanthropic initiative of great importance and to benefit from a barrique of Barolo of the 2021 vintage, obtained from a specific parcel within a historic vineyard,” noted Antonio Galloni, Founder & CEO, Vinous. “Bidders should be encouraged by the rarity of the wines, the specially commissioned works of art and charitable causes, and all this contributes to making this initiative truly special.”

Information on how to take part in the auction can be found at http://www.fondazionecrcdonare.it

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About the Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Cuneo: On 24 January 1992, the Cassa di Risparmio di Cuneo Foundation was established, a private and independent non-profit body pursuing aims of social and economic benefit and promotion. The Foundation is inspired by philanthropic aims and makes contributions to public and private non-profit organizations as well as directly promoted projects in the fields of education, welfare, culture, local development, health, scientific research and sport. The initiatives are supported by the resources deriving from the management of the Foundation’s assets, which comfortably exceed one billion euros.

The Foundation’s activities aim to contribute to the development of the communities in its area, supporting their capacity for innovation and strengthening their cultural and educational offerings, so as to create more united and supportive social conditions. Teamwork in synergy with the territory, alongside the third sector and public bodies, in collaboration with citizens and institutions. With Barolo en Primeur, CRC Foundation has created a charity event at national and international level, focusing a territory, its beauties and singularities, creating an innovative event that can generate important social benefits.

About the Consorzio Di Tutela Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe e Dogliani: Founded in 1934 and representing over 500 wine producers across multiple appellations, the consortium is committed to the management, protection, and promotion of the Langhe, Alba, and Dogliani wine denominations. The Consortium ensures high quality by a set of formal production guidelines for the entire winemaking process, from agronomy to market surveillance. The Consortium continues to perform periodic sampling of wine products on the market to prevent fraud and to protect the wines’ authentication and reputation. Barolo & Barbaresco are registered trademarks in many countries throughout the world.

Milam And Greene Whiskey Releases Distillery Edition Batch Three Straight Bourbon Whiskey

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BLANCO, TEXAS (PRWEB) – Milam & Greene Whiskey is releasing its third annual grain-to-glass bourbon, Distillery Edition Batch Three Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a Certified Texas Whiskey produced in Blanco, Texas. Like previous batches, it is pot-distilled by master distiller, Marlene Holmes, in a 300-gallon copper still, is non-chill filtered, and bottled at barrel proof. This extremely limited-edition bourbon is a batch of only four barrels. The Distillery Edition Batch Three Straight Bourbon Whiskey is now available exclusively at the Milam & Greene Whiskey distillery and select retailers in Texas while supplies last.

“Our Distillery Edition Straight Bourbon Whiskey is made with Texas-grown corn, and the entire process from mashing, fermenting, distilling, to aging is done on-site to create a Certified Texas Whiskey,” says Marlene Holmes, master distiller, Milam & Greene Whiskey. “We want to create a whiskey with an exuberant character that appeals to adventurous whiskey drinkers while retaining the classic bourbon personality of sweetness and spice. We are meticulous with our distilling techniques to achieve that balance.”

The mash bill for Milam & Greene Distillery Edition Batch Three Straight Bourbon Whiskey of 70 percent corn, 22 percent malted rye, and eight percent malted barley and proprietary yeast recipe has remained consistent for each of the three batches. What sets Batch Three apart is the impact of the Texan terroir on the barrels as they age for three years with the final months of aging in 2022 punctuated by exceptional heat. The resulting whiskey is the most vigorous, spicy, and lively spirit of the Milam & Greene portfolio. It is hand-bottled at barrel proof (56.94% ABV / 113.88 Proof) to show off the intricacies that the distilling team painstakingly nurtured along the whiskey-making process.

“While we age and batch whiskies from various states together with our own Texas whiskey to make our Triple Cask Bourbon, we create our Distillery Edition Straight Bourbon to be an expression of Texas,” says Milam & Greene Whiskey CEO and blender Heather Greene. “Our Batch Three is certainly a reflection of the unique environment in Texas. Milam & Greene Distillery Edition Batch Three conveys the qualities that the hot and dry Texas Hill Country climate drives into the spirit under the care of skilled whiskey makers. The past hot two months of extreme heat really added something unusual to it. It’s a “Texas heat finished” whiskey and this is our most robust and feisty Distillery Edition yet.”

Milam & Greene Distillery Edition Batch Three Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Glowing deep amber in the glass, Distillery Edition Batch Three is non-chill filtered for weight and viscosity. It has rich aromas of honey-baked grain, vanilla, fresh tobacco, and black tea with a hint of citrus that is brought out even more when served with ice. The palate is robust and piquant, with peppers and spice layered with cinnamon, caramel, and clove. The finish is cozy warm and lingers like a Hill Country sunset. It is a complex, high-proof banger of a whiskey. Enjoy Distillery Edition Batch Three Straight Bourbon sipped over ice in the shade protected from the hot Texas sun.

Pricing and Availability
Milam & Greene Distillery Edition Batch Three Straight Bourbon Whiskey is available at the distillery in Blanco, Texas, and at select retailers in Texas for $119.99. This whiskey is extremely limited. Please call your local retailer to determine availability.

About Milam & Greene
Milam & Greene Whiskey is made by some of the world’s most experienced whiskey professionals, including CEO, master blender, and author, Heather Greene and 30-year veteran and master distiller, Marlene Holmes. The Milam & Greene team distills in Blanco, Texas on small 300- and 1,000-gallon pot stills as well as in Kentucky on classic column stills, using its proprietary yeast and grain recipes. Aging takes place in rickhouses located in four states in different casks for a variety of flavors resulting in the most thorough array of casks made and collected by any craft distiller. These casks become the ingredients from which its award-winning American whiskey range is batched to create perfection. Milam & Greene Whiskey believes in using the best people and ingredients to create delicious, award-winning whiskey for whiskey lovers. For more information visit: milamandgreenewhiskey.com. Connect with Milam & Greene Whiskey on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Perlises Pick: Monochrome

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After months of no winery visits, we finally got out and about. But, something about us had changed. While we still love red wine A LOT, we have been drinking mostly whites during our stay at home and espousing our newfound “healthier diet and lighter wine to go with it” lifestyle to anyone who will listen.

It was now time to put our money where are our mouths are.

Meet Monochrome.

We first tasted Monochrome at the 2018 Garagiste Festival in Santa Monica. At that time, Michael wrote: I’m just going to say it: “It takes balls to make only white wine in red wine country. Since I was focusing primarily on reds I almost skipped it. Fortunately, Karen insisted I try the wines.

As usual…um, always…she was right. Especially loved the 2016 blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Marsanne as well as the 2016 blend of Marsanne and Chardonnay. They are pouring in Paso’s Tin City now and I highly recommend you check them out. We intend to.”

Three years later [!], we finally did.

If there was any doubt, Michael comments above were meant as a compliment, not an insult. Paso Robles is known for its big red wines and many (but certainly not all) of the white wines have the reputation of being viewed as an afterthought for that member of a tasting group that just “doesn’t like reds.”

Dave McGee is changing that, one wine-drinker at a time. He founded Monochrome in 2016 after a rich and varied career in industries such as radar design, stealth technology and neuroradiology. He completed the online UC Davis winemaking program and helped with the winemaking at Villa Creek and Alta Colina before making the jump to starting his winery, focusing entirely on white wine.

Taking a contrarian approach to the rest of the region, Dave and consulting winemaker Riley Hubbard focus on making only “white wines with depth, layers and complexity…” Sourcing grapes from Santa Barbara County on the south to Santa Cruz on the north (the three-hour-by-truck rule), they break each variety into small batches and use different fermentation and aging techniques for each, resulting in wines that really live up to the expression of the whole being greater than the sum of the parts.

Some notes on the wines we tasted:

2019 “Neither Here Nor There” is a blend of 56% Chenin Blanc from Jurassic Park Vineyard in the Santa Ynez Valley and 44% Sauvignon Blanc from the McGinley Vineyard in Happy Canyon. We picked up lemon notes and long finish. This wine has a really solid backbone.

2018 “Analog In A Digital Age” is 74% Marsanne from Camp 4 Vineyard in the Santa Ynez Valley, 17% Chenin Blanc from G2 Vineyard in the Willow Creek district of Paso Robles and 9% Viognier from Shokrian Vineyard in Santa Barbara County. The wine spent nine months in amphora. There was a really nice minerality on the finish.

2018 “Sense Of Out Of Place” – this blend of 53% Sauvignon Blanc from McGinley Vineyard and 47% Chardonnay from Donnachadh Vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills has a medium to long finish and pretty citrus/tangerine notes on the nose.

2018 “Wall Of Sound” is 68% Roussanne from Zaca Mesa Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley and 32% Viognier from Shokrian Vineyard. This is a very rich classic Rhone blend.

2017 “Blasphemy” is an unusual blend of 80% Chardonnay from Donnachadh Vineyard and 20% Chenin Blanc from Jurassic Park Vineyard. It has a rich golden corn color, and is bright and rich, with a perceived sweetness [as it is 100% dry].

2019 “X-3” – the blend is 49% Roussanne from Zaca Mesa Vineyard, 37% Viognier from Plum Orchard Tree Lane Vineyard in Paso’s Templeton Gap and 14% Grenache Blanc from the G2 Vineyard. Some of this classic Rhone blend goes through the “death and resurrection” method wherein the juice is hyper oxidized and then allowed to come back to life. The wine has a very full mouth feel with citrus lemon notes and a medium to long finish

2020 “Barrel Distortion” – 94% Albarino from Plum Orchard Lane Vineyard, 6% Gewurtzraminer from Paraiso Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands. Very bright with smooth buttery notes.

You may have noticed an overriding theme here. These are serious, complex wines. A lot of thought and care went into making them and the approach to drinking them should follow suit. Monochrome is raising the bar for what white wines can be. Check them out in Paso Robles’s Tin City.

Monochrome

www.monochromewines.com

3075 Blue Rock Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446

Michael and Karen Perlis have been pursuing their passion for wine for more than 30 years. They have had the good fortune of having numerous mentors to show them the way and after a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting wineries and vineyards, and tasting as much wine as they possibly could, they had the amazing luck to meet Eve Bushman. Michael and Karen do their best to bring as much information as possible about wine to Eve’s Wine 101 faithful readers.

Oregon Welcomes its 22nd American Viticultural Area (AVA): Lower Long Tom

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PORTLAND, ORE. (PRWEB) – Lower Long Tom, the newest appellation in Oregon and the southernmost in the Willamette Valley, has received federal recognition as an American Viticultural Area (AVA). Drawn to reflect distinct soil, topography, and climate attributes, Lower Long Tom becomes the 22nd federally recognized winegrowing region in Oregon, the tenth nested AVA within the Willamette Valley, and the first in the Southern Willamette Valley. The new AVA was granted approval by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) on November 10 and took effect on December 10, 2021.

Located in Lane and Benton counties, Lower Long Tom is characterized by a chain of rolling hills separated by east-to-west valleys, cut by the tributaries of the region’s namesake, the Long Tom River. The AVA sits within the Lower Long Tom watershed and the Long Tom River, a tributary of the Willamette River, serves as the AVA’s eastern boundary.

Vineyards in the appellation are located on stream-cut ridge lines, with Bellpine as the predominate soil type. These shallow, clay-loam soils are formed from up-lifted ancient marine sediments, primarily sandstone.

To the west, the region is flanked by a stretch of significant peaks within the Coast Range, which serve as a weather shield. The rain shadow contributes to consistent grape maturity in the region.

Long Tom is a regional name associated with the Kalapuyan people who have lived in the area for more than 10,000 years. The name is used in recognition of the ongoing contributions of the Kalapuyan people in the local community and across Oregon.

Four years ago, Dieter Boehm of High Pass Winery petitioned the TTB for the addition of the AVA to the wine country map. 12 wineries and 24 vineyards join the new Lower Long Tom AVA. A full list of wineries and vineyards can be found below.

“This neighborhood is warm, genuine, authentic, and down-to-earth, with passionate owners and farmers connected to the land,” said Matt Shown, second-generation winemaker at Brigadoon Wine Co. “That love for this place goes beyond wine and permeates our daily lives.”

“Oregon’s newest viticultural area acknowledges the increasing appreciation our grape growers and winemakers are developing for site-specific growing conditions and flavor complexity,” said Oregon Wine Board Executive Director Tom Danowski. “In the shadow of Prairie Mountain and the Coast Range, Lower Long Tom will add a unique dimension to the Willamette Valley’s esteemed reputation for extraordinarily elegant and expressive fruit.”

Both the industry and consumers who look to Oregon for its one-of-a-kind appellations and the sense of place in Oregon’s wines can celebrate the addition of Lower Long Tom as a nested AVA of the Willamette Valley. Pinot Noir is the predominant grape of the region, with wines leaning toward blue and black fruits and plush tannins for graceful aging. Around a dozen white grape varieties are grown as well, most notably Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot gris, and Sauvignon blanc.

“Pinot noir is still the kingpin variety in the Willamette Valley,” said Morgen McLaughlin, executive director of the Willamette Valley Wineries Association. “Winemakers love Pinot noir because it’s such an expressive grape: it insists on telling you where it’s from. We’re so excited to see Pinot noir and other wines from Lower Long Tom AVA recognized in the larger story of the Willamette Valley.”

Lower Long Tom AVA:

Details:
Official date of recognition: December 10, 2021
Total acreage: 25,000
Planted acreage: 575
Number of wineries: 12
Number of vineyards: 24
Varieties: Pinot noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot gris, and Sauvignon blanc
Soil: Bellpine

Wineries:
Antiquum Farm
Bennett Vineyards and Wine Company
Bradshaw Vineyard
Brigadoon Wine Co.
Benton Lane Winery
Five Fourteen Vineyard
High Pass Winery
Pfeiffer Vineyards and Winery
Poco Collina
Rainsong Winery
Territorial Vineyards and Wine Company
Walnut Ridge Vineyard

Vineyards*:
Bellpine Vineyard
Chardonnay Way
Davis Reid Vineyard
Evans Vineyard
Fitzpatrick Vineyard
Gelardi Vineyard
Grace Hill Vineyard
Hildebrand Ranch
Kliewers Weinberg
Kokkeler Vineyard
Moriah Vineyard
Priddy Vineyard
Stroda Vineyard
Sunny Mountain
Union School
*Many of the wineries above are located on an estate vineyard.

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ABOUT THE OREGON WINE BOARD
Oregon is home to 995 wineries and 1,370 vineyards planted, generating annual economic impact of $7.2 billion for the state. The Oregon Wine Board is a semi-independent Oregon state agency managing marketing, research, communications, and education initiatives that support and advance the Oregon wine and wine grape industry. The Board works on behalf of all Oregon wineries and independent growers throughout the state’s diverse winegrowing regions. Visit oregonwine.org for more info.

ABOUT THE WVWA
The WVWA is a nonprofit industry association dedicated to achieving recognition for Oregon’s acclaimed Willamette Valley as a premium Pinot noir-producing region. The WVWA has more than 230 members representing wineries, tasting rooms and vineyards throughout the Willamette Valley. The organization also hosts Willamette: The Pinot Noir Auction, Oregon Pinot Camp, Pinot in the City, May in Wine Country, The Giving Season and the Cellar Season. Visit willamettewines.com for more info.

Chateau de Berne Celebrates Top 100 Placement from Wine Enthusiast for Its Inspiration Rose Wine

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PROVENCE, France, /PRNewswire/ — MDCV celebrates the top 100 wine placement from Wine Enthusiast Magazine for its Inspiration Rosè, the only Cotes de Provence Rose to be included in the Top 100. Reviewer Roger Voss said, “Aging on the lees has allowed this wine to have the depth and ripe concentration, which contrast well with the bright red-berry flavors and spicy, tight aftertaste. Drink now for best enjoyment.” The wines of Chateau de Berne are all made by Alexis Cornu, winemaker, and oenologist at Berne since 2016. Inspiration is sold in an exclusive square bottle that is a tribute to the square towers that grace the entrance gates to the Berne Estate. This design is inspired by its Roman architecture and a nod to the estate’s long history of winemaking dating back to Roman times.

Château de Berne is nestled in the rolling hills of Provence, in the South of France, one hour from Saint-Tropez between the villages of Lorgues and Flayosc. A remote winding road leads to the exquisite estate in its stunning, pristine natural environment. The Relais & Château estate includes a five-star hotel as well as a Michelin-starred restaurant “Le Jardin de Berne” which features an eco-conscious approach to fine dining. In 2021, “Le Jardin” received the new Michelin Green Star distinction, awarded for exemplary sustainable restaurant practices. Completed by the Cinq Mondes spa, cooking school and various leisure activities, Château de Berne offers food & wine lovers, athletes, adventurers, and those simply looking for quiet contemplation, the promise of an unforgettable experience.

World-famous for its rosé wines, Provence is less well-known for the outstanding variety of its terroirs. The Côtes-de-Provence appellation alone spans six vast territories, running from East to West, each with its own unique soil type, geography, and climate. Located in the Haut-Pays (Highland) area, Château de Berne is characterized by limestone hills and shallow valleys. This renowned area of Provence yields structured reds and fruity, delicate whites and rosés. The estate combines the best of two worlds in terms of geology and altitude. The heart of Berne’s vineyard, where 80 % of its vines are rooted, is located on a chalky plateau, at an altitude of almost 1000 ft. Cool nights, combined with a broad daytime temperature range, allow the grapes to mature at a slower pace, thus enhancing the wine’s freshness and delicate aromas.

Chateau de Berne Inspiration Rosé is imported by Provence Rose’ Group and retails at $21.99 and is available wherever wine is sold.

For more information on the Estate, please see www.chateauberne.com/en

Instagram & Facebook – @chateaudeberne

Keep up with the latest news on https://provencerose.com/

SOURCE Château de Berne

Tasting Casa Mexico Tequila

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Received some interesting tequila from Casa Mexico for review, what made it interesting you may ask?

Well, for one the two aged expressions, the Reposado and Añejo, benefitted from time in new American oak barrels that weren’t “tainted (by) the flavor of old whiskey” and char – which I couldn’t wait to sample for myself.

Tasting:

(The quoted sections are from Casa Mexico)

Blanco

“The Blanco tequila is a straightforward expression without any aging.”

Toasted corn, cream, vanilla bean, citrus, mown grass and without any nose burn at all; tingly mouthfeel, some of the same notes from the nose on the taste – the cream, vanilla and citrus – with an extra-long finish. Highly sippable.

Reposado

“The Reposado ages for a minimum of six months…in new American White Oak Barrels…The new American oak barrels allow a truer expression of the tequila to shine through without tainting the flavor with the char of old whiskey.”

A bit sweeter nose than the Blanco, with aromas of Kettle Corn, vanilla icing, dates and figs; and again no burn. The taste was smoother than the Blanco, but spicy on the palate, with background flavors of white pepper, vanilla yogurt and dried citrus fruit – and an even longer finish. Pleasantly quaffable on its own.

Añejo

“Añejo ages for a minimum of 12 months…in new American White Oak Barrels, a twist on traditional aging methods.”

Nose: Vanilla bean ice cream, sweet cream, incense, no pepper or spice and that clean American oak simply resonating throughout. Flavor: Extremely smooth, reminded me of a sweet rye whiskey, pepper and hard butter toffee candy. Extremely pleasant. Made a Añejo Old Fashioned with this one. (Build over ice in a Martini shaker: two ounces Casa Mexico Añejo, one dash aromatic bitters and ½ teaspoon simple syrup or agave. Shake, pour into iced Martini glass, garnish with orange peel.)

From Casa México:

Founded by Mexican-American Eric “Don Buccio” Buccio, Casa México was born from a dream to create a high-quality tequila that celebrates his family’s Mexican heritage and rich traditions while supporting its farmers and creators. The brand is now championed with fellow Mexican-American partners, actor Mario Lopez and boxer Oscar de la Hoya.

Based in Los Angeles, CA, each tequila is crafted from 100% estate-grown blue agave from red volcanic soil in the Los Altos highlands region of Jalisco, Mexico, ensuring the highest quality possible. The tequila is created at Hacienda Capellanía in Jalisco, a farm and distillery boasting more than 100 years of jimador history, including several generations of family farming.

With a deep passion for the traditional distilling process, each of Casa México’s three tequilas are made using a traditional organic process with specific attention to eco-friendly measures. The water used for the distilling process is from a natural underground spring and gray water is repurposed to water the peaches, avocado and other crops grown on the estate. Hacienda Capellanía employs around 50 workers, paying fair wages with full benefits for employees to ensure their community and its families are taken care of.

Casa México Tequila currently boasts a trio of tequilas: Blanco, Reposado and Añejo. The Blanco tequila is a straightforward expression without any aging. The Reposado ages for a minimum of six months and Añejo ages for a minimum of 12 months – both in new American White Oak Barrels, a twist on traditional aging methods. The new American oak barrels allow a truer expression of the tequila to shine through without tainting the flavor with the char of old whiskey.

Casa México Tequila can be found in California, Nevada, Texas, Colorado, Florida, New York, New Jersey, Florida, and Illinois. Distribution and expansion are growing quickly, with several other states in the pipeline including Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Louisiana, Georgia, New Hampshire, and more. Additional national expansion throughout the United States is planned for 2022 and beyond.

Casa México Tequila

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.