How About An Invitation to Gambero Rosso’s 1st Virtual Master Class?

July 31, 2020 by evebushman

Gambero Rosso is a huge name in Italian wines. They usually have walk around tastings for press, sommeliers, distributors and consumers. With Covid-19 ending all of that I had the remarkable luck to have been offered bottles from 12 wineries to review at home along with a live Master Class on Zoom.

The Invitation

I’m writing with a special invitation to you on behalf of Gambero Rosso, the global authority on Italian wines and publisher of the annual Vini d’Italia (Italian Wines) guide. We would like to invite you to join a small group of U.S. wine writers and key wine trade for Gambero Rosso’s first-ever virtual Master Class, hosted by Marco Sabellico, the guide’s editor-in-chief.

…12 wines will be tasted and discussed, meaning you will receive 12 full bottles of wine…You would be one of just 25 hand-selected participants from the entire U.S. This will be an interactive experience, with opportunities for you to ask questions throughout the tasting…

Wine List and Notes (some are from the winery representatives/technical sheets, the tasting notes are mine and those marked with a plus sign + were my favorites. My husband Eddie joined me for the class.)

PANIZZI

+Vernaccia di S. Gimignano 2019

The name Gimignano on the label is the town in Tuscany where the Vernaccia grapes are grown. It’s not a very well-known wine grape but of top quality. This is their 30^th vintage but back in the medieval times of the 12^th century this wine was the most exported wine. The wines sees no time in oak, it’s all stainless steel. This vintage was described as “not very aromatic” though I found it quite lively with stone fruit and pineapple notes.

BOCCADIGABBIA

Colli Maceratesi Ribona Le Grane 2018

The Ribona grapes, also known as Maceratino, are indigenous and grown in the Maceratesi area. They are 25 kilometers from the sea with both sandy and clay soils. The vineyards are 20 years old. According to the technical notes “whole grape berries, picked slightly over-ripe are added to the wine” following the first fermentation. I noted the salinity in the wine, due to the proximity to the sea air, fresh fruit, as well as an earthy quality.

ZORZETTIG

FCO Pinot Bianco Myò 2018

This winery is in Fruili, and the Spessa vineyard is designated as historical and dates back to the 1950s. The grapes are harvested by hand within the first week of September. I found spice and bruised yellow Delicious apple notes. The tech sheets mentioned having this wine with light appetizers, fish, canapes, Adriatic crab with Arugula. The crab pairing sounded just perfect to me.

CASALFARNETO

+Castelli di Jesi Verdicchio Cl. Crisio Ris. 2016

This was a reserve Verdicchio, grown close to the mountains, dating back to 1995. The wine had a rich mouthfeel with lots of citrus and apple notes. It normally spends some time in oak and a minimum one year in stainless steel. This 2016 has just been released. As it’s a reserve they are aged 18 months. Had it again, two days later, still fresh, vibrant, with tons of fruit.

VELENOSI

++Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Prope 2016

This was my favorite wine in the tasting. I got notes of sweet ripe plums, crushed black cherry, black berry – and a developed maturity for being so young and not decanted. (We left it open and enjoyed it even more with dinner later.) It is 100% Montepulciano grapes, hand-picked mid-October, vineyards are in Controguerra, gravelly soil. The maceration period can extend four weeks according to the technical notes.

CONTE LEOPARDI DITTAJUTI

+Conero Pigmento Ris. 2016

This 100% Montepulciano wine was harvested mid-November from a vineyard in Sirolo in the Conero area. That grapes are picked late harvest – early October to the end of November, barrique aging. Many of the experts in the class had decanted this Riserva Montepulciano wine, some up to 24 hours before, so we swirled like mad and really liked what we found: ripe fruit, forest floor, dusty and tannic.

CONTE EMO CAPODILISTA – LA MONTECCHIA

Colli Euganei Cabernet Sauvignon Ireneo 2016

Another to decant, the wine is a blend of dried wine grapes including 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot and 4% Carmenere, vineyards are 200 meters above sea level and in barrique barrels for 12 months. Because the grapes are dried, like an Amarone, there is more sugar and a higher alcohol content, 15.5%. They also freeze their yeast for fermentation for all of their wines. The wine was filled with dried fruit, olive, mint, balsamic and tannins. After more time in my glass it was earthier.

DE STEFANI

+Colli di Conegliano Rosso Stefen 1624 2015

This wine is from the Marzemino grape, which is grown in the hillside 50 kilometers north of Venice. (One of the somms remarked that the Marzemino grape is related to the Lagrein grape.) The owner Alessandro De Stefani spoke to us about his wines, and is the fourth generation to run the family-owned winery. The wine was dry, dark, sweet with both honey and Port wine notes as it developed in the glass.

TENUTA MONTETI

+Caburnio 2015

This is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Alicante Bouschet and 25% Merlot, the percentages change with each vintage, 14% alcohol, no fining, no filtering and expected to age over 15 years according to the technical notes. The vineyards are in “the tail of Tuscany, at the coast.” It tasted older than five years to me as it was very balanced, dark fruit, earthy with a lovely nose. Would benefit from decanting too.

COPPI

Gioia del Colle Primitivo Senatore 2015

This wine is from Puglia, chalk and clay soils, 100% Primitivo, handpicked the first 10 days of September, 12 months in Slavonian oak barrels, 13.5% alcohol. We noted that it was aromatic and tart, with raspberry and mint leaves. Most of the somms loved the wine. Fred Swan commented Primitivo has “the same DNA as Zinfandel. (They are) twins that grew up in different neighborhoods.”

CÒLPETRONE

Montefalco Sagrantino 2012

Made with the Sagrantino grape in Umbria, this eight year old wine has the highest percentage of polyphenols in the world according to winery representative Giacomo Alari. Pungent, tart, mushroom and tannic – the wine could probably go a few days in an opened bottle for added depth.

TENUTA SANT’ANTONIO

+Amarone della Valpolicella Campo dei Gigli 2015

Sant’Antonio is known as the father and protector of the poor. Gigli is the name of a flower from the region in Verona. The vines are 40 years old, three months of raisining, three years in new casks. Another favorite in the tasting, and our last. The dried grapes that made up this Amarone offered huge aromatics and flavors, including a nice black cherry.

Facebook links:

Boccadigabbia
CasalFarneto
Còlpetrone
Az. Agr. Conte Emo Capodilista
Vini Coppi
De Stefani
Panizzi
Tenuta Monteti
Tenuta Sant’Antonio
Velenosi Vini
Zorzettig Vini

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.

Vintage Eve Circa 8/2014: LA. Bottlenotes: Around the World in 80 Sips 2014

January 30, 2018 by evebushman

Bottlenotes is bringing their Around the World in 80 Sips® event to the Petersen Automotive Museum…What better way to spend a Friday night than to taste wines from around the world while spending time with true wine connoisseurs?

Top national wine and spirits expert Sherry-Lehmann has partnered with Bottlenotes again to host the VIP suite at the event. The “Sherry-Lehmann Suite” always sells out as it offers a rare opportunity to sample some of the world’s top wines – including Cristal…

If that invite didn’t grab you the tasting line-up did:

Louis Roederer Cristal
Taittinger Comtes de Champagne
Pichon-Longueville-Lalande
Louis Jadot
Joseph Drouhin
Domaine Bouchard Pere et Fils
Domaine Ott
Tignanello, Ceretto
Dominus
Stags Leap Wine Cellars
William Fevre Chablis
Chateau Montelena Estate
Henriot Champagnes
And more throughout the entire second floor of the Petersen Automotive Museum

The Tasting

I have to admit that I spent most of my time in the Sherry-Lehman suite tasting the above mentioned wines. It had been a warm day and beginning an evening with French Champagne was just what I needed. (My husband, on the other hand, took off to take photos of the Batmobile, Matchbox cars exhibit and several other antique vehicles in perfect condition – while sipping wine.)

While most of my favorites are pictured in my Facebook album, let me tell you about some of the wines that blew me away:

My first stop was the Louis Roederer Champagne table where I thoroughly enjoyed Brut Premier NV, Rose 2008 and Cristal. And yes, I did have to pour out some of the Cristal to make it through the night!

2011 Antinori Tignanello 80% Sangiovese, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc was almost the most-perfect blend.

A near vertical of Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon – 2006, 2007 and 2010 – reminded me of why this winery has been producing award-winning wines for decades.

The only Amarone of the night, and my favorite wine of the night, was a Zenato Amarone Classico 2009 (Veneto). I wish I could have sat down and taken notes on this one. None of the expected dried raisins, with just a hint of sweetness that was washed over by great fruit and firm tannins.

I never had Henriot Champagne before. Enjoyed the Brut Rose NV and the Blanc de Blanc NV. Also at the table was a remarkable 2009 William Fevre Les Clos Chablis.

A Dominus Napa Valley 2011 red blend wowed me. At the same table we sampled a Bodegas Marques de Murrieta, Castillo Ygay Rioja Gran Reserva Especial that was equally outstanding.

A 2012 Cameron Hughes Lot 456 Tempranillo blend (with Malbec and Grenache) was mighty tasty for $12, as well as a 2011 Basso Monte Paschoal Reserve Tannat from the “Wines of Brasil” table that retails for $14.99.

Goat Cheese of Note

If you are lactose intolerant you must try what Goat Cheeses of France does. I thought I was done with Brie or any other soft cheese, and they proved me wrong. They have a Goat Camembert, Bleu de chevre, logs and more. And while not available in a store in Santa Clarita Valley, they can be purchased online through several retailers.

Facebook album link: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10203601048734217.1073741878.1455706632&type=1&l=4f9deafbf8

Historic Families to Ring in the New Year with Amarone Tasting Events in New York City

January 7, 2018 by evebushman

NEW YORK (PRWEB) – Historic Families (Le Famiglie Storiche), the organization that represents thirteen quintessential producers of Amarone della Valpolicella, the Italian noble red that hails from Italy’s Veneto region, will be coming to the United States in January 2018 to host two tasting events in New York City. Historic Families aims to educate trade and consumers about the traditions, quality, and nuances of Amarone della Valpoicella, which is celebrated as one of Italy’s finest wines.

Amarone FAMILIES from Wineworld blog

The tastings will take place on January 31 at Del Posto, the famed Italian restaurant in Chelsea owned by the Batali & Bastianich (B&B) Hospitality Group. They will give trade and press the opportunity to meet the producers and taste fine vintages of Amarone della Valpolicella.

Jeff Porter, Beverage Director of the B&B Hospitality Group, will host a guided vertical tasting of the 2009, 2010, and 2011 vintages of Amarone della Valpolicella. During the seminar, Porter and the producers will explain and explore the many nuances in the wines that result from the terroir of the Valpolicella area as they demonstrate that Amarone is as much about terroir as it is about technique.

Following the seminar, there will be a walkaround tasting showcasing select Amarone bottles of each of the thirteen producers. Both events are reserved exclusively for trade and press.

“The wineries of Historic Families are rooted in traditional values and craftsmanship,” says Sabrina Tedeschi, owner of Tedeschi Winery and President of Historic Families. “We combine generations of know-how with modern innovation to produce one of Italy’s greatest red wines. Amarone has always been well-received in the United States, and we’re eager to showcase three excellent vintages from wineries whose standards guarantee high quality and honor the long history of Valpolicella.”

The entry of new producer members into Historic Families has strengthened the interest and prestige of the association over time, making it the recognized and influential institution that it is today, increasingly active in decisions in favor of high quality Amarone.

About Le Famiglie Storiche/Historic Families: The group was founded in June 2009 (previously Le Famiglie dell’Amarone d’Arte/Amarone Families) by ten historic Valpolicella companies. Today, it boasts 13 partners, prestigious wineries that have sustained and promoted the Valpolicella wine territory in the Veneto region of Italy territory for centuries: Allegrini, Begali, Brigaldara, Guerrieri Rizzardi, Masi, Musella, Speri, Tedeschi, Tenuta Sant’Antonio, Tommasi, Torre D’Orti, Venturini, and Zenato. Together, the wineries bring a heritage of knowledge consolidated from an unwavering commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation as testimony to this great wine.

Vinitaly International Academy partners with China’s Leading Liquor Supplier

April 3, 2017 by evebushman

CHENGDU, China, PR WEB – On the agreement, the general manager of 1919’s purchasing subsidiary, “Shanghai 1919 Global procurement CO., LTD”, Andrew Tan comments: “We chose Vinitaly International as our partner as they are the leaders of Italian wine in China. I can tell Vinitaly is always looking for innovative and useful tools to foster b2b connections. They were the first to set up the Italian wine pavilion during the ‘International Wine and Spirits Show’ in Chengdu. This partnership with 1919 and the fabulous Gala Dinner with Italian wine producers celebrate Vinitaly’s long-lasting commitment to Chengdu and we are looking forward to what future collaborations will bring.”

The 1919 O2O platform numbers over 1,000 physical stores in 500 cities in China, being present also in every Chinese province. The 1919 is the largest O2O open platform for wine and spirits and the third biggest liquor open platform next to Tmall and JD, attracting more than 1500 well-known brands (e.g Maotai, Wuliangye, Luzhou Laojiao and Penfolds) to join. In November 2015, 1919 announced its strategic merger with GJW.com. On the Singles’ Day 2015 (also known as Double 11), the sales volume of 1919 was 157 million, ranking it first in the industry. In 2016, Double 11,1919 won the first line of liquor sales, with overall sales of 451 million.

The focus of the agreement between Vinitaly International and 1919, this time, is on the most innovative ways of distribution, relying on traditional distribution, on online distribution, and on distribution through App. At the core of it, are also over 100 distributors orbiting around 1919 that will meet Italian wine producers and importers to exhibit in Chengdu from 19 to 22 March during Vinitaly Chengdu.

To celebrate this new partnership, Vinitaly Chengdu’s fourth edition will include a fabulous Gala Dinner as one of the most important events of this year’s edition. On March 20th in the evening, Vinitaly International Academy and 1919 will join forces at the elegant Intercontinental Hotel in Chengdu. The guests of honor for this fabulous event will be Italian wine producers and Chinese importers. The dinner will feature specialty Chinese food — Chengdu being one of the food capitals of China and the second most visited city by Chinese food and wine tourists according to the latest study by e-booking travel agency C-trip.

Chengdu is also the capital of the Sichuan province and is mentioned several times in Marco Polo’s travel book Il Milione (The Milllion). At the dinner, 40 producers and 100 distributors will seat together divided up in 20 tables with ten people per table. At every table, two Italian wine producers will showcase their wines to the Chinese distributors. This dinner will be the perfect occasion to combine the excellence of Italian wine with that of Chinese cuisine.

Stevie Kim, Vinitaly International’s managing director states: “This isn’t the first time 1919 has appeared on our agenda. Andrew Tan, Managing Director of Shanghai 1919 Global procurement CO., LTD, highlighted the importance of an effective logistics system in the successful on-line/off-line business, 1919 at our Vinitaly showcase wine2wine Asia last year. At the time, Mr Tan revealed that an average of just 60 square meters of retail space with 600-700 wine labels, 1919 can deliver a bottle of wine, chilled, within 19 minutes in 500 cities throughout China. Today, they are present with over 1,000 stores, in 500 cities distributed throughout all provinces. The projected growth for 1919 is exponential and 1919 seems to be a solid choice for us to extend the knowledge of Italian Wine through our Vinitaly International Academy and we are honoured.”

Vinitaly Chengdu will take place for the second year in the Shangri-la Hotel with a more numerous representation compared to 2014. In that year, Vinitaly International had made its way back to China to attend Tangjuhui, the most important week for wine and spirits distribution in China, in an event that took place in the Kempinski Hotel, the temple of wine distribution and import in China. Last year together with partners Shenzhen Pacco Cultural Communication who devised the Kempinski Hotel showcase, Vinitaly International decided to open up a new chapter at the Shangri-La Hotel for four days of B2B quality events with fine wines and wine education.

This year three Vinitaly International Academy seminars will take place, starting from the inauguration, a masterclass dedicated to wines such as Brunello and Amarone with Vinitaly International Academy’s Italian Wine Expert Jinglin Zhang.

Vinitaly International is committed to put education at the center, and the b2b aspect at the service of Italian wine to help it find a main role in a difficult market.
The agreement between Vinitaly International and 1919, the Chinese leaders in distribution, signed on March 10th marks the beginning of future collaborations. Retracing Marco Polo’s Silk Road, 1919 will also be present beside Vinitaly International in Verona on April 8th for OperaWine and a special session dedicated at Vinitaly on the 10th of April. The collaboration will continue also in May in China.

About:

Veronafiere is the leading organizer of trade shows in Italy including Vinitaly (http://www.vinitaly.com), the largest wine and spirits fair in the world. During its 50th edition Vinitaly counted more than 4,100 exhibitors on a 100,000+ square meter area and 130,000 visitors from 140 different countries. The next edition of the fair will take place on 9 – 12 April 2017. The premier event to Vinitaly, OperaWine (http://www.operawine.it) “Finest Italian Wines: 100 Great Producers,” will unite international wine professionals on April 8th in the heart of Verona, offering them the unique opportunity to discover and taste the wines of the 100 Best Italian Producers, as selected by Wine Spectator. Since 1998 Vinitaly International travels to several countries such as Russia, China, USA and Hong Kong thanks to its strategic arm abroad, Vinitaly International. In February 2014 Vinitaly International launched an educational project, the Vinitaly International Academy (VIA) with the aim of divulging and broadcasting the excellence and diversity of Italian wine around the globe. VIA this year launched the second edition of its Certification Course and today counts 55 Italian Wine Ambassadors and 6 Italian Wine Experts.

Perlis Picks: Larsen’s Wine Event

July 9, 2016 by evebushman

Larsen’s Steakhouse in Valencia, one of the few choices we have in town for a high end/fine dining experience, recently held one of its periodic “wine tasting and locker stocking” events for its VIP locker holders. My wife Karen and I had the pleasure to attend, taste some great wines, try some delicious apps and catch up with old friends.

If you’ve eaten at Larsen’s at all, you’ve probably noticed the wine lockers at the entrance to the dining room. Many of the names on them are some of SCV’s most well-known movers, shakers and wine lovers.

According to Richard Bokstrom, General Manager of Larsen’s Steakhouse in Valencia, locker members get the following benefits: 20% discount on wines purchased during the event, 10% off on wines purchased at the restaurant from the wine list and free after dinner drinks from the VIP cart, as well as free corkage on their wines at Larsen’s. In addition, only locker members can reserve those highly coveted tables in the bar area. Plus, VIP locker status extends to all Larsen’s restaurants.

The wine event had several of Larsen’s wine distributors pouring a plethora of wine samples for locker members’ enjoyment and purchase.

The distributors were:

American Wine and Spirits

Chambers & Chambers

Constellation Brands Inc.

Epic Wines

Henry Wine Group

Mosaic Wine Alliance

PWS

Quintessential Wines

R & R Wines

Regal

Vinthology

Wine Warehouse

Given that Larsen’s is a steakhouse, it’s not a surprise that there was a big focus on California Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley. But there were plenty of other options as well to pair with Larsen’s great steaks as well as with their other menu items.

Out of the dozens of wines available for tasting, some of our favorites were…

Belle Glos “Clark & Telephone”, SMV, 2014 – [Pinot Noir from Santa Barbara County]

Cenay, Bald Mountain Chardonnay, Santa Cruz, 2012

Cloudy Bay, “Te Koko”, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, 2013

EnRoute, Chardonnay, 2013 [Russian River Valley]

Enzo, Red Blend, Mendoza, Argentina, 2012

Faustino, IIRiverone, Amarone 2010 [This was probably my favorite wine of the tasting. Loved it.]

Inglenook, Rubicon, Rutherford 2012 [Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Merlot]

Jose Pariente, Rueda, Verdejo, 2014

Kistler, “Les Noisetiers”, Sonoma Coast, 2013 [Chardonnay]

Meyers Family Cellars, Yorkville Highlands, Syrah, 2009

Mt. Brave, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa 2012

Mt. Brave, Malbec, Napa 2012

Mt. Veeder “Reserve”, Napa 2012 [Cabernet-based blend]

Pedestal, Merlot, Columbia Valley, 2008

Newton, “Unfiltered”, Chardonnay, 2010

Pine Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2013

Robert Mondavi Oakville Cabernet

Sequel, Syrah, Columbia Valley, 2013

Talbott, Sleepy Hollow Vineyard, 2012 [Chardonnay]

Terrazas, Cheval Des Andes, 2011 [Malbec based blend from Argentina]

Trione, River Road Ranch, Russian River, Sauvignon Blanc, 2011

Vine Cliff, Chardonnay, 2013

Wind Racer, Anderson Valley, 2012 Chardonnay

Yao Ming, Cabernet, Napa 2012

Complimentary hors d’oeuvres [loved the Kobe sliders, among others] in a great setting and tasting these delicious wines with old friends made for a perfect afternoon. And, Mr. Bokstrom informed me there are a few lockers available, although they may be gone by the time this article hits.

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.

Vintage Eve Circa 8/2011: Eve’s Envy Knows No Bounds: Review of Jay McInerney’s A Hedonist in the Cellar, Adventures in Wine

April 19, 2016 by evebushman

This article could also be titled: Who will Bind My Wine Columns for ME?

I’ve probably got about four or five folders of columns saved on my computer. One for reviews, another of interviews, Chef 101 stories, and the basic bashing fun of others. Then Borders shut down, e-books became free, and what did I do? Kept writing.

So that’s why this book, circa 2006, from a real published author, Jay McInerney of Bright Lights, Big City fame, Just. Kills. Me.

It’s like he stole my idea and added talent, knowledge and money!

The Book

I figured out it was a collection of columns based on two things, he says the word “column” in several and hover at about 3 pages in length. The short missives, making it very easy to read between parasailing and snorkeling during my recent Jamaica trip, was right up my wine-alley.

It was also quite fun to read! Even for your own, Miss-Know-A-Little.

The book is broken down into eight chapters, devoted to his favorite wines, winemakers, sommelier stories, pairings, ending with what we should end with after a night of wine tasting: “Bubbles and Spirits.”

But, instead of writing the same old drivel about Napa Valley being the crown achievement of California winemaking – duh – he takes us to places not as familiar.

For example, in the last chapter McInerney doesn’t spend much more on Champagne than he does on Armagnac, Chartreuse and Absinthe.

Other examples are his columns on Tocai Friulano, Soave, Amarone, Bandol, Sagrantino di Montefalco, Cheval-Blanc and Kosher wines. As a true wine 101er, not all of these are familiar to me, or, I expect, most of my readers. It’s easy reading and the learning… just makes you want to taste something new.

Eve Tangent

Three things get me every time:

Only liking white wines.

Only liking red wines.

Drinking what I’m drinking.

One and two are obvious, keeping McInerney’s columns in mind, how could you possibly know that you only like one kind of wine if you haven’t tried others? Like the crispness of a Sauvignon Blanc then try the bright cherry in a Pinot Noir. Like the fruit in a rosé then try the young nouveau Beaujolais. And, drinking what I’m drinking because you figure I know what’s good? Great in point, but I tend to side with McInerney and give as many wines as I can their due.

That’s how I roll. So, you may want to think about what might really be in my glass and put some more thought into what you want in yours.

Back to McInerney

I dog-eared several pages (Yes, that term actually means something. I turned the tip of a page down as I didn’t have enough book markers and I owned the book) that I liked in particular. Here are some drops of McInerney wisdom:

Writer Auberon Waugh segued from his own work and also wrote a wine column for Tatler. His columns are collected in a book called Waugh on Wine and is known, as McInerney put it, to produce “the liveliest and most pungent wine writing of the century.” He got into trouble using the word “anal” and commonly said wines were “filthy” or “disgusting.”

Another pal McInerney quotes is Kermit Lynch, a wine store owner in California that doesn’t carry California wines. Lynch, per McInerney, said “Why is it that most men don’t like fat women but they think they like fat wines?”

His column on monks making Chartreuse was a real history lesson for this vinophile. If you don’t know where Chartreuse came from, or even what it is, read McInerney’s take on it.

McInerney’s column, “The Mountain Men” The Smith Brothers of Smith-Madrone, takes him on a journey after he discovers a surprise 97 Riesling, made by the brothers, inspired him learn just how an American Riesling from Napa Valley “could taste this complex.”

McInerney thinks out of the box, I only wish I could climb in there with him.

Vintage Beacon Circa Nov 2010: Holiday Tasting by Valencia Wine Company Again!

August 11, 2015 by evebushman

Back for a 6^th time, and better than ever, Guy Lelarge, the staff of Valencia Wine company, dozens of wine representatives from the U.S. and abroad, Chef Daniel Otto and the Oaks Grille staff, gave guests an “all-you-can-taste” shopping spree.

That last part, about the shopping spree, refers to guests that were able to get (from the wine list at the end of this post) a nice discount for bottles purchased at the event. One more reason to attend the annual wine tasting: A jump-start on holiday shopping!

Once again, this being the second once again, I youtubed some of the shenanigans at Eve’s Wine 101 YouTube Channel. But in case that’s not your bag, I’ll fill you in on some of the details here.

Of the 15 tables serving wine I was maybe able to visit 10. The wines that I really dug I italicized below in the list.

Guests paired some outstanding Champagnes, Sparkling, Ice Wine, Bordeaux, Barbera, Barolo, Chianti Classico, Amarone, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Syrah, White Burgundy, beer, Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc, etc., etc., with heavily laden cheese trays and many passed appetizers. The convenience of a seasoned meatball, or wonton, handed to you by a smiling server – without having to interrupt your tasting – was perfect.

I enjoyed visiting with, and learning from, many representatives: Dean Cox of Tanaro River Imports, Robert Posey with Vinifera Imports, Wendy Roberts from Wine Warehouse, Dennis Hyde for Cosentino Winery, George and Jennifer Skorka with Frank Lyn/Angeles Wines, just to name a few.

In pilfering Facebook, I found these public remarks from friends about the event: Jackie Hamby said, “Four hours of unlimited wine tasting. Heaven!” Darlene Gandara thought it “An awesome event” mentioning the Layer Cake Cabernet Sauvignon as a favorite. Helen LaPrairie chimed in that, “It was fantastic! Wasn’t the French Champagne at Jerome’s table delish??!! And so many others!” Rob Trautwein told Guy that, “Monica and I had a wonderful time as usual at the TPC Holiday Wine Tasting! Wanted to thank you again for hosting such a fabulous event . . Cheers as usual!” Stacey Mayfield contemplated, “Another beautiful Sunday wine tasting in Santa Clarita. Thank you Valencia Wine Co. After a few hours, I feel like I’ve spent a day in Napa.”

And, a final one from my Guru, Guy Lelarge: “Thank you everyone who attended & supported our 6th Annual Holiday Tasting held at TPC – it was a huge success and I hope everyone had a great time! Thanks to all who have been there every year and to the new clients who attended for the first time. Without your continual support it would not be the great event that it is. We at ValenciaWine Co truly appreciate you!”

Some of the Tasters

Mark and Julie White, Claudia Sheridan, Bill and Maureen Farrar, Robert and Monica Trautwein, Robert Parker, Robert and Darlene Gandara, Katie Neimand-Figueroa, Randy and Kim Andrews, Kevin Osborne, Guy Lelarge and Helen LaPrairie, Chris and Jeannie Carpenter, John and Jackie Hamby, Perry and Kim Mangers, Michele Buttelman, Jo Ann Vindigni, Doug Gould and Lisa Cole, Dora Zavala, Mike Weinstein, John Adams, Terry and Stacey Mayfield, Larry Mazzeo and Jennifer Haberer, William Friedman, Dr. Mark Jenkins, Ramon Rebel and many more…

The Wine Line Up:

1 – SOUTHERN WINES & SPIRITS:

Simi Landslide 2006

Franciscan Magnifcat 2006

Ravenswood SVD Teldeschi 2007

Robert Mondavi Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

Wild Horse Unbridled Pinot Noir 2007

Wild Horse Unbridled Chardonnay 2008

Borgo Conventi Pinot Grigio 2008

Inniskillin Vidal Ice Wine

2 – SOUTHERN WINES AND SPIRITS:

Candoni Pinot Grigio 2008

Coppola Pinot Noir Directors Cut 2007

Gary Farrell Pinot Noir 2007

Gloria Ferrer Brut Rose

Trapiche Malbec 2009

Chateau St. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Blue Label NV

3 – VIN WEST INTERNATIONAL

Handley Gewurztraminer 2008

Silver Stone Keeper 2005

Silver Stone Merlot 2005

39 North Petite Sirah 2006

Derby Implico Meritage 2006

Derby Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

Grey Wolf Big Bad Wolf Zinfandel 2008

Old Codger Port NV

4-BRIDLEWOOD

LaMarca Prosecco NV

MacMurray Sonoma Pinot Noir 2008

MacMurray Chardonnay 2008

Bridlewood Blend 175 2009

Laguna Chardonnay 2008

5-CHATEAU DIRECT~France

Château Grand Abord White Graves 2008

Domaine Louis Sipp Pinot Gris 2006

Domaine Debray Hautes Cotes de Beaune 2007

Domaine Charles Allexant Cotes de Nuits Villages 2007

Château de l’Eveche Pomerol 2005

Château Moulin de Sales Pomerol 2000

Domaine du Clos des Cazaux Vacqueyras 2007

6-TANARO RIVER IMPORTS

Bindi Segardi Climax 2007

Bosco Agostino Barbera d’Alba 2007

Bosco Agostino Barolo 2005

Beck-Hartweg Gewurztraminer 2006

Beck-Hartweg Gran Cru Riesling 2007

7-VINIFERA IMPORTS

Sant ‘Elena Pinot Grigio 2006

Mormoraia Vernaccia di San Gimignano 2008

Icardi Barbera d’Asti 2008

Villa Medoro Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2006

Fontodi Chianti Classico 2006

Brigaldara Amarone 2006

Icardi Moscato d’Asti NV

8-FRANK-LIN/ANGELES WINES

Villa San Juliette Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Villa San Juliette Cabernet Sauvignon 2008

Villa San Juliette Petite Syrah 2008

Bachey-Legros Bourgogne Rouge 2007

Yves Cheron Cotes du Rhone Les Dentelles 2007

Jean Vullien Chardonnay Cuvee Prestige 2008

Vigneau-Chevreau Vouvray Sec Cuvee Silex 2008

Gualda Young Tempranillo Joven 2009

9 – WINE WAREHOUSE

Trefethen Double T Chardonnay 2008

Trefethen Chardonnay 2007

Trefethen Merlot 2006

Louis Roederer Brut Premier NV

Louis Roederer Carte Blanche NV

Cloudline Pinot Noir 2008

Forman Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

Plungerhead Lodi Zinfandel 2008

Jermann Pinot Grigio 2008

Joseph Drouhin 2008

Ramos Port 10 Year

Ramos Port 20 Year

10-WINE WAREHOUSE~BEER~

Birra Moretti

Moretti La Rossa

Erdinger Dunkel Weizen

Erdinger Pikantus Weizenbock

Anderson Valley Brother David’s Triple

Triple Kameliet

KWAK

Anderson Valley Imperial IPA

11 – VINTAGE POINT

Layer Cake Shiraz 2009

Layer Cake Primitivo 2008

Layer Cake Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

Layer Cake Cherry Pie Pinot Noir 2008

Joseph Carr Cabernet Sauvignon 2008

Joseph Carr Chardonnay 2008

Luna Sangiovese 2007

Luna Pinot Grigio 2008

Hidden Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

Ottimino Zinfinity 2007

12– CLASSIC WINES

Rusack Chardonnay Santa Barbara 2008

Rusack Pinot Noir Santa Maria 2008

Falcone Syrah Paso Robles 2008

Bell Claret Napa Valley 2007

Veuve De Vernay Brut NV

Filus Reserve Malbec 2008

13- AMERICAN WINES & SPIRITS

J Vineyards Pinot Noir 2007

Forefront by Pineridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2008

Root 1 Chardonnay 2008

Chateau Bonnet Blanc White Bordeaux 2009

J Vineyards Brut Rose NV

Nino Franco Prosecco Rustico NV

14- PAUL YOUNG WINES ~FRANCE~

Ployez Jacquemart Champagne ‘Passion ‘ NV

Abbaye du Petit Quincy Bourgogne 2006

Daniel Bouland Morgon Corcelettes 2008

Deveze Cotes du Roussillon Pandora 2005

Deveze Cotes du Roussillon Astree 2005

Damana Crianza 2004

Pinuaga Tempranillo 2005

15-COSENTINO WINERY

M Coz 2006

Reserve Merlot 2005

Reserve Cabernet Franc 2006

Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

Napa Chardonnay 2007

Cigar Zin 2007

The Zin 2007

The Novelist 2007

Couples and Co Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

Couples and Co Sangiovese 2006

Couples and Co Chardonnay 2006

Pure Cos Meritage 2006

Pure Cos Meritage 2006 Magnum

16- INTERNATIONAL WINE CLUB

Call the store for details on their new International wine club! 661-254-9300 http://www.valenciawine.com/

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years. She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a guest judge for the L.A. International Wine Competition. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits that may be answered in a future column. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Wine 101: Tasting Italian Wines From Slow Wine

February 6, 2015 by evebushman

Slow Food International presented the 2015 edition of Slow Wine Guide at a wine tasting featuring more than 50 producers from 15 Italian wine regions that I attended at The Taglyan Center on Vine in Hollywood.

Francesco Vallone, CEO, Agricole Vallone and Marcia Gay Harden look-a-like rep!

Clearly the plan was to completely taste through the 17-page program. However, from one Italian to another, I got so caught up talking and tasting with winery owners and representatives that I might have covered only one-third of what was offered. And that one-third was more than awesome. I learned more about the wide array of Italian grapes (I tried to get all their names) used for winemaking and not to pigeonhole Italian wines in a like or no like category. If you didn’t like one varietal you can still try a bazillion others!

Eve’s Highlights

(See my Facebook album: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10204840538840695.1073741895.1455706632&type=1&l=01704504b8)

Starting in the back of the room to avoid the cluster of tasters in the front, I visited Marco Porello and enjoyed a refreshing 2013 Roero Arneis Gamestri listed as an inexpensive “everyday wine” choice.

Next up in my program I noted remarkable flavors in all three that I tasted from Elvio Cogno: 2009 Baolo Bricco Pernice, 2012 Barbera D’Alba Bricco Dei Merli and the wonderful difference between aroma and flavors in the Langhe Nascetta Anas-Cetta.

At Diego Conterno I liked the 2010 Barolo Ginestra and then tried the 2010 Barolo that I liked even more. Both needed some cellar time, but I believe that is pretty standard for Barolos.

Agricole Vallone served up my first fave of the day – a 2010 Graticciaia from the Negroamaro grape, followed by a nicely spiced 2009 Salice Salentino Vereto Ris made from the same Negroamaro grape.

Planeta had a lovely oaked 2012 Sicilia Chardonnay with great fruit and a 2012 Sicilia Nerello Mascalese Eruzione made from Carricante grapes.

At Benanti, a winery built in volcanic soil and near an active volcano, had a nice dry 2012 Etna Rosso Rosso Di Versella and a 2010 Etna Rosso Rovittello.

Fattoria di Felsina had a lovely 2011 Fontalloro from Sangiovese grapes.

Montenidoli served up three exceptional tastes: 2010 Il Tempare made from Vernaccia, Trebbiano and Malvasia grapes; and a 2009 Vernaccia Si San Gimignano Carato.

While at the Tabarrini table the winery representative pulled out his iPad to show me a photo of the 6-foot tall grape trees that ladders are needed to pick the fruit. I enjoyed their 2011 Montefalco Rosso made from Sangiovese, Sagrantino and Barbera grapes.

Monte Tondo served up a lovely 2012 Soave Classico Casette Foscarin and an equally well done 2013 Soave Classico Montetondo…then they wowed me further with a 2010 Amarone Della Valpolicella that had a sweetly spiced nose that contrasted in the mouth with a nice drying palate.

6 foot tall grape trees of Tabarrini

Then at the Speri Viticoltori table I found the 2010 Amarone Cl. Vignetto Monte Sant’Urbano had “elegance” and a great balance.

And finally, saving this one for last, I ended up at the Brandy Villa Sarri table. There wasn’t a bottle here that I wouldn’t have loved to sneak home: the 1988 Brandy Millesimato and the 10-year old Brandy being the first. Then came a cherry brandy that was filled with rich black fruit, a walnut brandy “Liquore Nocino” that slayed me with unique flavors, and then finishing the tasting with the Amaro Zarri blend of spices and orange zest.

The Wineries

Abruzzo

Tenuta Terraviva www.tenutaterraviva.it

Castelfeder www.castelfeder.it

Emilia-Romagna

Villa Venti www.villaventi.it

Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Le Vigne di Zamò www.levignedizamo.com

Ronco del Gelso www.roncodelgelso.com

Marche

Cantine Belisario www.belisario.it

Marotti Campi www.marotticampi.it

Piedmont

Anna Maria Abbona www.annamariabbona.it

Marco e Vittorio Adriano www.adrianovini.it

Borgogno & Figli www.borgogno.com

Brandini www.agricolabrandini.it

Ca’ Viola www.caviola.com

Casa di E. Mirafiore www.mirafiore.it

Cascina Ca’ Rossa www.cascinacarossa.com

Dacapo www.dacapo.it

Elvio Cogno www.elviocogno.com

Conterno Fantino www.conternofantino.it

Diego Conterno www.diegoconterno.it

Contratto www.contratto.it

Damilano www.cantinedamilano.it

Pira & Figli – Chiara Boschis www.pira-chiaraboschis.com

Giacomo Fenocchio www.giacomofenocchio.com

La Gironda www.lagironda.com

La Spinetta www.la-spinetta.com

Malvirà www.malvira.com

Mossio Fratelli www.mossio.com

Marco Porello www.porellovini.it

G.D. Vajra www.gdvajra.it

Puglia

Agricole Vallone www.agricolevallone.it

Castel di Salve www.casteldisalve.com

Alberto Longo www.albertolongo.it

Sicily

Benanti www.vinicolabenanti.it

Planeta www.planeta.it

Tuscany

Badia a Coltibuono www.coltibuono.com

Caiarossa www.caiarossa.com

Casanova della Spinetta www.la-spinetta.com

Corzano e Paterno www.corzanoepaterno.it

Fattoria di Fèlsina www.felsina.it

Fontodi www.fontodi.com

Montenidoli www.montenidoli.com

Tabarrini www.tabarrini.com

Veneto

La Montecchia Conte Emo Capodilista www.lamontecchia.it

Monte Tondo www.montetondo.it

Leonildo Pieropan www.pieropan.it

Speri www.speri.com

Consorzio Maestri Vignaioli

Cantine del Notaio www.cantinedelnotaio.it

Trappolini www.trappolini.com

Villa Zarri www.brandyvillazarri.com

Cascina la Ghersa www.laghersa.it

Az. Agr. Stroppiana Dario www.cantinastroppiana.com

Ferreri & Bianco www.ferrerivini.it

Rubinelli Vajol www.rubinellivajol.it

Spumanti Dal Din www.daldin.it

About

Slow Wine is no longer just a wine guide. In April 2014, Slow Food also launched Slow Wine Magazine (http://www.slowwinemagazine.com), a digital magazine published in English, German and Italian. With six issues a year, the magazine recounts the world of Italian wine with an outlook of the Slow Food philosophy…

Slow Wine Guide critiques wine through the perspective of the Slow Food philosophy giving prominence to small-scale winemakers who are using traditional techniques, working with respect for the environment and terroir, and safeguarding the incredible biodiversity of grape varieties that are part of Italy’s heritage. Slow Wine is the only Italian wine guide that visits all of the winemakers included in the guide, in their vineyards.

The Slow Wine Guide 2015 English version is a selection of more than 300 of the best wineries. The large majority of the wineries recognized with the Snail or the Slow Wine symbol are certified organic and biodynamic.

Scott Richardson and The Educated Palate: Holiday Beverage Pairings to Make the Season Merry and Bright

November 30, 2014 by evebushman

Most of us will be running around looking for that perfect Christmas gift for our loved ones right up to the last minute. But let us not forget to purchase the wines that will pair with the food we will all be enjoying over the holidays.

There are some basic pairing rules to help you with this process. The first rule is not to look at how cool the label looks. You are not drinking the label. But the label will tell you what is in the bottle and the year the grape was harvested… the vintage. Some wines are supposed to be opened and enjoyed while young. Other wines should be kept and stored for a while and then enjoyed. The second rule of buying wine is to know what food you will pair with the wine. Below, I will offer my guide for you to know what variety of wine to pair with what type of food.

Typically, at Christmas time, roast beef, lamb, turkey, ham, and roasted vegetables are on the table. So here is the list categorized by food type.

Wines for the Christmas Dinner

Serving roast beef? Choose Carmenere, a medium bodied wine from Chile or a more full-bodied Syrah from either Washington State or Paso Robles, CA. Of course Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, CA will always be a perfect match.

Serving roast lamb? Choose a nice Merlot from Bordeaux, France, but make sure it’s either a 2005, 2007, or 2009. If you can’t find this vintage, look for a Barbera (Italy).
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You can always pick up a Primitivo, which is the Italian cousin to the Zinfandel.

Serving ham? Choose a Chateauneuf du Pape (France), Amarone (Italy), or a lighter Pinot Noir from Oregon. Of course white wines such as Chenin Blanc from California or France pair nicely. Sauvignon Blanc’s from Marlborough, New Zealand are particularly delightful as well.

Serving roasted vegetables, especially root vegetables? You must rely on the fact that roasting vegetables will have more of a robust flavor on the palate. It would be wise to choose a more medium bodied wine such as Chardonnay (oaked) from California or a Rosé. If you are not into white wines or Rosé, try a Lambrusco. This is a slightly sweeter wine from Italy, but will hold up to the sweetness on some of the vegetables served with the meal as well.

Champagne versus Sparkling Wine

Let’s not forget Champagne during the holidays. Don’t wait until New Years Eve to open a couple of bottles of bubbly.

Let’s face it; buying Champagne is not always easy. Champagne can only be called “Champagne” if it is made in Champagne, France. But, there are sparkling wines that are made in the same fashion as its counterparts in Champagne, France. If you like that fresh baked bread, yeasty, aromas and flavors found in Champagne then you can expect to pay upwards of $60 for a good bottle of the bubbly stuff. Talk to your wine merchant and let them know you are looking for elegant, not opulent Champagne. Remember, a vintage Champagne will cost a lot more than the non-vintage (NV).

Here are some sparkling wines from other countries — Cava, a sparkling wine from Spain. Cava’s are dry and fruity with not a lot of the yeastiness on the nose or palate. Crémants are sparkling wines from outside of the Champagne region. A crémant rosé from the area of Alsace, France are by law to have 100% Pinot Noir grapes. Metodo Classico is from the northern part of Italy. These wines still have that fresh baked bread aroma and some nuttiness on the palate. Look for ones from the Franciacorta DOC and Trento DOC.

Pairings for Desserts

There is only one rule when pairing wine with desserts… the desserts cannot be sweeter than the wine or it will make the wine taste bitter. Look for fortified wines such as Sherry, Ports or a Pedro Ximinéz (PX).

Better yet, purchase a bottle of Kerrygold Irish Cream and make your own dessert drink with this beautiful blend of Irish cream, Irish whiskey and chocolate.

I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Scott Richardson has been in the hotel and restaurant business for almost 30 years. His love for producing remarkable food and service evolved to his love for all things wine. Scott has worked at many prestigious locations including The Cavendish Hotel, in London England and The Grove Park Inn and Resorts in Asheville, NC, as well as Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resorts as General Manger of several restaurants. His culinary background and his love for wine pushed into the teaching profession with University of Central Florida’s Rosen School of Hospitality Management, Valencia College, Johnson and Wales University and New England Culinary Institute, where he wrote Advanced Food and Wine Pairing, currently being offered as part of the school’s BS in Food and Beverage Management degree. If that was not enough, Scott is also a volunteer judge at several food and wine festivals in Central Florida throughout the year. In his spare time, Scott writes for The Park Press, his column “The Educated Palate” can be found at www.theparkpress.com. Scott is currently pursuing his passion in wine by working towards his PhD in Hospitality Leadership with research in the wine tourism industry. Scott can be reached at scott@theparkpress.com or you can follow him on Twitter @1educatedpalate.

An Interview with Andrew McNamara, Master Sommelier and Director of Fine Wines for Premier Beverage Company By Scott Richardson

August 7, 2014 by evebushman

I recently spent some time with Master Sommelier, Andrew McNamara during the Court of Master Sommelier’s Introduction and Certified level exams here in Orlando, Fl.

Andrew was one of ten candidates to pass this rigorous exam in 2007, Andy is also one of the very few in the court’s history to successfully complete all three portions and receive the highest score on his first sitting- tasting, service, and theory – and receive the coveted Krug cup – an award bestowed by Krug Champagne. In 2010, Andy was appointed to the Board of Directors for the Guild of Sommeliers. The Guild of Sommeliers is a non-profit, member-run organization, committed to excellence, development, inspiration and exchange of information for wine service professionals and wine enthusiasts across the U.S. (Editor’s note: Scott’s questions are in plain font and Andy’s answers are in italics.)

Why Wine? What drew you to Wine? This was a second career for me. My father loved wine, and instilled that in his children. It was always about family and friends and having a good time. It’s hard to have a glass of wine or talk about wine and not be smiling.

Why did you decide to start and complete the Master Sommelier course? I decided on the MS program for several reasons. First, the owner of the wine shop I worked in (Arthur’s Wine Shop in Charlotte, NC) had mentioned that a previous employee – Robert Jones, MS had worked through the program and that he thought I could do it. I took the Introductory Course in the fall of 2003. I remember coming back from the first day of class and telling my wife “I want to be a Master Sommelier – it looks like it’s so much fun!” And that was that.

How long did you study for the MS? My entire life? I’d been learning for a while and enjoyed it, but sitting down, studying, practicing – 3 ½ years from the time I took the Introductory Course until I passed the MS Exam in 2007.

How difficult is it to taste wines like an MS? It’s like anything – the more you practice, the better you become. I don’t believe that I’m a “gifted” taster in any way, shape or form, but I practice –continue to practice – a LOT – 4, 5, 6 thousand wines/year. I’ve found that most people are great tasters – they just don’t believe that they are. Most people eat a strawberry and don’t think about what it tastes like – most great tasters think about everything they taste and smell all the time.

Did you ever find out what wines you tasted on the day you took the MS exam? No – and I’m sure that I don’t want to!

If I were to give you a wine to taste right now would you describe for my readers what you taste? Always! But… and this is a BIG but… wine is such an experiential thing and each person is different. What I get in a wine might be different than the person next to me. The general categories will most likely be the same, but there is some subjectivity.

What’s the most difficult part of the Sommelier course? Finding the time to study! It’s hard to map out a study plan on a subject that constantly changes. It’s balancing work, family, friends, other obligations – all of it. It’s like having another full-time job.

For these Intro level students, what advice would you give them to go to the next level or even all the way to MS (there are a total of four levels in the CMS)? Enjoy it. I mean that literally. If you don’t stop and just drink a glass of wine or a cocktail every so often, all it becomes is study. Remember why you wanted to do it in the first place.

Some people think Sommeliers are very snooty… do you consider yourselves a wine snob? I’m a snob in the sense that I know what I enjoy, but I’m always open to trying new beverages. (Different question – Am I a price snob?) Absolutely not. Some of my favorite wines are $7 a bottle and fantastic. It’s easy to find a $200 bottle that’s great – it should be, quite frankly. I get far more joy in finding an inexpensive bottle that knocks my socks off.

What is your favorite value wine? I love Southern French Rose. They’re perfect all summer, great in the winter and extremely versatile with food.

You work two jobs… what are your roles in your respective companies?
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My official title is “Director of Fine Wine/ Master Sommelier” for Premier Beverage Company. I run our Premium Account Development Specialist team and Augustan Wine Imports. I also do internal education, some work with accounts, and new product acquisitions. Keeps me busy!

What wines are trending at the moment? Moscato continues to be hot – as does Malbec. What I’m seeing is a movement towards great values – the varietal, country or region doesn’t matter so much – it’s the quality in the glass that’s most important.

What wine did you taste last night? Actually tasted 6 – A 2010 Bordeaux, a Moscato d’Asti, a sparkling Vouvray, two reds from Spain – a Jumilla and a Ribera del Duero – and finished with a killer Amarone.

What is your favorite non-wine drink? I love a great Negroni, Manhattan or Margarita.

What is the best wine you have ever had? My stock answer is I haven’t had it yet. In reality – the 1990 Jacques Frederic Mugnier Musigny Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru from Burgundy. I can still taste it. It was with a group of great friends in a hole-in-the-wall restaurant in San Francisco. The glassware was awful, the service even worse. But the wine… an amazing experience.
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I’ve had the same bottle several times and none of them were quite as good.

You pair wine with food not food with wine… why the distinction? I actually do both. In restaurants, especially in the U.S., it’s more common for diners to order their food first and the wine second (or start with one wine and then have another wine to go with the main course). Sometimes I’ll make a suggestion based on the food that was ordered, or I’ll make a suggestion of food to go well with the wine. Depends on the guest.

What is one word of advice you can give to the common wine drinker when choosing a wine? Know what you like, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. The days of the snooty sommelier are (almost) gone – most are out to give you a fantastic experience, not a wallet-emptying experience.

Scott Richardson has been in the hotel and restaurant business for almost 30 years. His love for producing remarkable food and service evolved to his love for all things wine. Scott has worked at many prestigious locations including The Cavendish Hotel, in London England and The Grove Park Inn and Resorts in Asheville, NC. His culinary background and his love for wine pushed into the teaching profession with University of Central Florida’s Rosen School of Hospitality Management, Valencia College, Johnson and Wales University and New England Culinary Institute. If that was not enough, Scott is also a volunteer judge at several food and wine festivals in Central Florida throughout the year. Scott is currently pursuing his passion in wine by working towards his PhD in Hospitality Leadership with research in the wine tourism industry. In his spare time, Scott writes for The Park Press, his column “The Educated Palate” can be found at www.theparkpress.com. Scott can be reached at scott@theparkpress.com