Vintage Eve Circa Jan 2018: Call it What Happy Hour Really Is…A Precursor For Dining in Our Old Age (With new photo of courtyard at Salt Creek Grille!)

July 14, 2020 by evebushman

I was at one of my regular Happy Hour haunts, The Social in Newhall, when I noticed that the bar was completely packed at 5pm, much like it is at Olive Terrace Bar and Grill and Salt Creek Grille when we venture over to the other side of the valley and Le Chene when we want to go even further.

And then I noticed that the people that were packing these bars weren’t 20 somethings…not even 30 somethings…they were people that have “cultivated” their palates for a couple of decades longer than that.

There are lots of great Happy Hours all over Awesometown and we used to do a round-up of their menus annually just to share what they offer. (The last one is our 2016 version you can read here.) The four that I mentioned just happen to be the ones we have been going to of late…at least the past 10 years or so.

So why do we prefer these bars over others? They aren’t particularly loud or noisy, have comfortable seating and, as drinking at 5pm is a precursor to dining at 6 or 7, it seems to work for our seasoned age group.

Of the Happy Hours we go to – the ones that specifically were full very early in the evening – they also offer small bites for free or nominal prices, and some larger plates culled from the main menu. The libations extend from beer and wine to excellently crafted cocktails; one even doesn’t offer any kind of price deal on the drinks at all, just a Happy Hour menu of food. (And that one just happens to be our favorite. Why? Well we can walk there – we’ve said this many times, and yet we never actually have walked there! It’s the neighborhood bar and we often run into people we know. The owner gives us a welcome hug, maybe a peck on the cheek, and we know some of the servers and bartenders. Maybe at a certain age we just like to feel welcome…)

So, as we dined on dishes from appetizers to pastas we noticed how nice it is to dine early, have a well-made cocktail, linger a bit, then go home and…be asleep by 9pm. (And well on our way before the young’uns took over the bars.) However many younger people do go out to Happy Hour – when we were younger these were places with deep discounts, we could get a little rowdy with pals and we would end up staying for dinner as well. (Many were/are family friendly – we weren’t really hip on the idea of bringing our daughter to a bar or winery, but to each his own.) Back in the day that meant the party was to be found at places like TGI Fridays and El Torito. (The latter, if you stayed long enough even offered dancing in the bar. Anyone else remember the Discos of SCV? LOL.)

I feel like the next step for us will be the early bird dinners at iHop, and no cocktail at all…? I hope not. I do know that older friends of mine have pulled back from wine club memberships – at least from wines that are meant to sit in our cellars for 10 years or more – because my pals in their 70s are buying more splits (half bottles), trying to drink through what they already do have and/or are looking for wine brokers to sell their wines to. They do go out…or at least join us for wine on the porch sometimes!

Life is an every changing highway. I’m hoping by the time we start dining at 4pm we’ll be in a place like Atria assisted living, where my mother has happily camped for nearly a year now, and be having cocktails by 2pm and up to two glasses of wine with dinner…now that doesn’t sound too bad does it?

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

Vega Sicilia Collectors Dinner with Pablo Alvarez (exclusive interview) at Jean-Georges Beverly Hills

February 7, 2020 by evebushman

A couple of weeks ago I had a rare wine tasting opportunity – with Hungarian and French “influences” – from world class Spanish winery Tempos Vega Sicilia. I got to meet and briefly interview CEO Pablo Alvarez, taste newer and cellared wines and have a lovely wine paired meal at Jean-Georges Beverly Hills in the Waldorf Astoria. First I’ll share a synopsis of the evening with my social media post, my interview with Alvarez, and finally the full menu, wines and my notes.

Social Media Post

About last night…my first time tasting Tempos Vega Sicilia with CEO Pablo Alvarez at a wine pairing dinner at Jean Georges Beverly Hills = I tasted and loved all of these remarkable wines beginning with a bone dry 2018 Furmint with appetizers; 2016 Macon Clasico, Bodegas Benjamin de Rothschild-Vega Sicilia and the 2015 Macan – both blew me away – with a wonderful Pate en Croute; then onto 2015 Pintia, 2016 Alion, and 2015 Valbuena – again all remarkable – with a Mushroom Crusted Salmon; then came the “unique” Unico labels including a 2006 Unico, 2009 Unico, 2010 Unico and the incredible 3-vintage blends that go into each Unico Reserval Especial, Vega Sicilia we had the R.18 and R.20 with Beef Bourguignon; finally ending with their sweet 2013 Tokaji Asuzu from Hungary with a lovely Passionfruit Glazed Pear with Rose Mascarpone and Toasted Nuts…

“Bodegas Vega Sicilia, founded in 1864, was purchased by The Álvarez Family in 1982. They produce three flagship wines; Vega Sicilia Unico, Vega Sicilia Unico Reserva Especial and Valbuena 5°. The company also founded Alión in Spain’s Ribera Del Duero Region in 1992, Oremus in Hungary’s Tokaj region in 1993, Pintia in Spain’s Toro region in 1997 and Macán and Macán Clásico from a joint winery project between the Alvarez Family and Baron Benjamin de Rothschild, (Chairman of Edmond de Rothschild in Geneva, Switzerland) in 2013. The company banded the wineries and vineyards under the umbrella of Tempos Vega Sicilia.”

“Few wines have a history as distinguished as that of Vega Sicilia. Founded in the 1860’s, its top cuvée, Unico, was Spain’s first great wine and until recent decades the only Spanish wine collected and coveted throughout the world.” To see the photos from this post click here.

Pablo Alvarez

For just a few minutes before a couple of other writers arrived, I swept in and chatted with Pablo Alvarez, Chief Executive Officer for Tempos Vega Sicilia. From Alvarez I learned that Vega Sicilia was more than one brand, his business card also shows the logos for wines made under the Alion, Pintia, Macan and Tokaj-Oremus labels. For the Spanish wines he feels they must be aged at least ten years before they are ready to drink – and said that other Spanish wineries don’t hold their wines that long. (I liked the idea of releasing wines when ready to drink, instead of the public having to hold them for years ourselves. I also could appreciate the cost of the “real estate” for Vega Sicilia to hold onto these, store them and wait to sell them.)

I asked Alvarez why invest in a Hungarian winery, his other wineries were all reasonably close together in Spain. He said that the area had been communist for a long time and the wines deserved attention now. (Alvarez added that he was looking for more vineyards but wasn’t sure yet where he would purchase.) When asked if he had a personal favorite Alvarez said, “There is every wine for every moment.”

Jean-Georges Menu and Tempos Vega Sicilia Wines

Hors d’ oeuvres

2018 Furmint, Dry Mandulas, Oremus (Bone dry and great for sipping with the appetizers)

Crispy Langoustine Basil Pesto ~ Tuna Tartare Avocado Guacamole ~ Black Truffle Fritto Assorted House-made Breads & Butter.

Flight I First Course

2016 Macan Clasico, Bodegas Benjamin de Rothschild-Vega Sicilia. 2015 Macan, Bodegas Benjamin de Rothschild-Vega Sicilia (Alvarez said that this was the best wine Rothschild has made – and he told him so. It was my first fave of the evening. And I inhaled the pate.)

Traditional Pates en Croute
Kitchen note: quail, chicken, duck, veal, porcini.

Flight II Second Course

2015 Pintia (fruit is chilled, cold maceration, to “favour fresh fruit character over what could otherwise be overbearing tannin.” Alvarez said this wine was rustic.)

2016 Alion (Alvarez called the wine “elegant” and I agreed.) 2015 Valbuena (Ribera de Duero, Alvarez said the wine was fantastic and it was. The most expensive in this group.)

Mushroom Crusted Salmon, Lemon Cream, Basil.

Flight III Third Course

2006 Unico, 2009 Unico and 2010 Unico (All Ribera del Duero. Of the 2010, “A great vintage: one of the very best of the best.” Released in 2020. Held for “aging, maturity and condition.” Unico means unique.)
Unico Reserva Especial, Vega Sicilia R. 19 Unico Reserva Especial, and Vega Sicilia R. 20. (They both blew my socks off, especially the nose of the 19 and the taste of the 20. Always three different vintages go into these Reservas, making for an incredible balance.)

Beef Cheek Burgundian Style, Ivre de Grenache, Black Truffle Mashed Potatoes.

Flight IV Fourth Course

2013 Tokaji Aszu, 5 Puttonyos, Oremus (From Hungary, sweet, and the perfect palate cleanser.)

Passionfruit Glazed Pear with Rose Mascarpone and Toasted Nuts.

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.

How Was Wine On The Roof…aka Wine Under the Roof? We Have ALL Of The Details!

May 18, 2019 by evebushman

Wine on the Roof was not held on May 16 on top of the Macy’s parking structure at Westfield Valencia Town Center. Instead, the event was in a different location and started earlier than planned. Why the changes? The rain! WiSH Education Foundation’s Executive Director Amy Daniels made the swift decision – after much consideration to everyone’s expectations – and moved the event inside one of the vacant shops in the mall. When guests started to arrive 30 minutes early, in the rain, they were let in early – and thoroughly enjoyed a longer stay at the “wine bar” that was filled with wines generously donated by the friends of the WiSH Education Foundation.

Wish Education Foundation Exec. Dir. Amy Daniels, and then some of the participating winemakers and vintners, left to right: Nate Hasper, Joey Perry and Steve Lemley, Pulchella Winery; Adam Hasper, Parhelion Cellars; Rick Pratt, Two Papas Wines; Dusty Nabor, Dusty Nabor Wines; Mark Blatty, Byron Blatty Wines.

Daniels, and a slew of volunteers, managed to turn an empty retail store into a party place that everyone appreciated. Neal Scott, of Nealie’s Skillet, commented, “Man, if I had a million dollars what a incredible space to make it an event space with Lyfe Kitchen. The mixers, weddings, big business events, city events…using both spots would be incredible. How cool would that be for the community.” Also on hand, and of note, was Neal’s wife Haydee who stepped up and volunteered to help with service all evening long.

The evening began with three appetizer courses paired with the private wine donations, speeches by Daniels and the president of WiSH, Richard Cohn. Next came Eve Bushman, of Eve’s Wine 101 and the creator and co-host of both Wine on the Roof and Cocktails on the Roof. Finally the newest co chair and winery recruiter Steve Lemley, of Pulchella Winery, spoke about the wineries and the pairings he and Bushman had done. The third co-chair of the event, Marlee Lauffer of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation, was vital in seeking the private wine donations. Lauffer chose to happily wave to her co-hosts from her seat surrounded by dozens of her friends and long time supporters.

Each course was presented with a wine – paired by Lemley and Bushman – and single menu card that listed the dish, chef, restaurant, winery, wine and winemaker. (Guests were prompted to take the menu cards home with them so they can reach out to the restaurants and wineries that they enjoyed.)

Musician Lance Allyn serenaded the party with live music throughout the evening, only taking breaks when Master of Ceremonies Ed Masterson took to the microphone to announce the next dish and invite both the winemaker and chef up to speak.

A dozen winemakers and vintners were seated among the guests to answer questions about the wines. A chef’s table was also set, on the off chance that the chefs and support staff could take a break. Many didn’t, instead they opted to help each other plating. “It’s quite the sight to see three chefs – or more – from different restaurants helping each other,” Bushman said. “It’s my favorite part of the evening and I always try to snap a photo or two of the action.” Chef Daniel Otto, of Old Town Junction, commented, “Awesome event. Thank you everyone for coming together and making this a very special event. Always amazing to collaborate with such talented people.”

The Pairings

Appetizer Hour

Newhall Press Room: Valley Board Selections. Charcuterie, cheese, dried fruit and nuts. Chef Trevor. Paired with Our Cellared Wine Selections Generously Donated by Dear Friends of the WiSH Education Foundation.

Greater Pacific: Sea Bass with Spring Peas. Creamy Polenta, green peas, snap peas, Meyer lemon. Chef Lindsey. Paired with Our Cellared Wine Selections Generously Donated by Dear Friends of the WiSH Education Foundation.

Smokin’ Bar-B-Quties: Sweet & Savory Beef. Flap Meat, Honey, Lime Juice, Jerk Spice, Scallions, Soy Sauce. Marinated overnight, then skewered. Scallion Garnish. Chef Sonja Randall. Paired with Our Cellared Wine Selections Generously Donated by Dear Friends of the WiSH Education Foundation.

Seated Dining

Salt Creek Grille: Mesquite grilled pear and scallop salad with butter lettuce and a poppy seed dressing. Chef Ignacio Munoz. Rose by Pulchella Winery and Ascension Cellars Rose.

Nealie’s Skillet: Sweet potato tower. Layers of cooked spinach, roasted sweet potatoes, fried tofu, wild mushrooms, touch of soy chorizo, with a garlic balsamic reduction with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. Chef Neal Scott. Paired with Grenache by Two Papas and Blending Lab.

Marston’s: Crispy Roasted Chicken Breast, Cream Cheese Yams, Tomato Fondue & Shiitake Aioli. Chef Jim McCardy Paired with Pinot Noir by Hoi Polloi Winery and Pagter Brothers.

Olive Terrace: Braised Short Ribs Stroganoff. Sautéed sweet onions, mushrooms, pinot noir reduction & vodka sauce over fettuccine with crème fraîche and crisp shoestrings potatoes. Chef Cody Gerstman and Chef Alfonso Canuto. Paired with Cabernet Sauvignon by Mystic Hills Vineyard and Dusty Nabors Wine.

Old Town Junction: Slow Braised Pork Shoulder in Duck Fat burnt orange, atop cous cous quinoa pesto, splashed with a blueberry Sichuan pepper reduction. Chef Daniel Otto. Paired with Syrah Blend by Blatty Wines and Golden Star Vineyards.

Wolf Creek Restaurant: Chocolate cherry pot de crème with hazelnut short bread. Pastry Chef Meghan Launier. Paired with Zinfandel by Parhelion Cellars and Triassic.

The Raves

Raves once more piled up on social media, to the thrill of organizers as it seemed there were more than 200 comments from our limit of 200 guests. Here is a snapshot:

“We both had a really good time. The food and wine was fabulous and the work involved to pull it off must have been exhausting.” Commented Lee Williams from Golden Star Vineyards.

“Fun night under the roof!” Linda Hafizi, Santa Clarita Magazine.

“I loved it! Food and wine were amazing. This event was so well run that the location was changed in 48 hours and you wouldn’t have even known this wasn’t the original location. Great job everyone!“ Kathy Lockhart.

“What an amazing evening!” Jennifer Ramos.

“Fantastic night with great friends at Wine on the Roof!! What an amazing evening!!!!! Thank you to Amy Sieger Daniels, the entire committee and all the community volunteers for making this a night to remember.” Dawn Begley

“It was awesome! Thank you for all your hard work!” Marianne Linder.

“Let’s rename it Wine Not on the Roof! Due to the unfavorable weather the venue was moved indoors at the last minute. Kudos to Westfield Valencia Town Center for providing us with an empty shop that we were able to convert for the event!” Mitch Russell.

“I enjoyed! Great event Eve!” Sonja Randall.

“Another fantastic event in the books for the WISH Education Foundation! We have THE best people in our community. Game changers and difference makers.” Amanda Benson.

“So much fun sharing all this passion with our community,” Lemley said when the event was at its close. “There’s nothing better than being surrounded by people you love.”

Private Cellar Donors for the “Wine Bar”

Brenda and Mike Nielsen, Julie and Steve Sturgeon, Rose and Steve Chegwin, John Shaffery, Marlee Lauffer, Elizabeth and Steve Hopp, Terri and Carl Kanowsky, Chris and Jeannie Carpenter, Nate Hasper, Amy and Steve Elzer.

Sponsors

Westfield Valencia Town Center, Eve Bushman/Eve’s Wine 101, Santa Clarita Magazine, SOS Entertainment, and Jennifer Ramos Social Conduit.

Committee Members (co-hosts and WiSH representatives listed in text above)

Jennifer Chadwick, Jennifer Ramos, Sharlene Duzick, Alexander Hafizi, Mitch Russell, Dawn Begley and Judy Penman. The restaurant prep coordinator was Jennifer Chadwick of Salt Creek Grille.

Photos

Plenty of photos can be found just by searching Wine on the Roof on Facebook. Dave Barragan, of Storicam did both boomerang and still photos that can be seen here: https://app.stori.cam/User/Public/Gallery?eventDetails=Wine_On_TheRoof_2019_73539

Bushman’s Public Photos

Front page news and people: https://www.facebook.com/eve.bushman/posts/10216634087392038

More people and wine:

https://www.facebook.com/eve.bushman/posts/10216634135513241

Food and chefs:

https://www.facebook.com/eve.bushman/posts/10216634165153982

Dessert and more:

https://www.facebook.com/eve.bushman/posts/10216634184114456

Volunteers

Led by Sharlene Duzick the volunteers also included Kat Kombrinck, Michael Garcia, Becca Garcia, Cheryl Gray, Kathleen Marquart, Allen Marquart, Patti Handy, Hilary Blaha, Dawn Abasta, Rebecca Deluca, Jessica Chambers, Danise Davis, Ingrid Blanco, Larry Fliechman, Rhona Jukes, Amanda Benson, Andrea Vibe, Piotr Orzechowski, Alan Diffata, April Wright, Haydee Scott, Jade Abducion, Alexandra Honadel, Chad Pearlman, Mia Slotve, Chelsea Martinez, Claydeen Adams, Kathleen McGraw, Daniela Echaiz, Kathy Weitzman, Michelle Tomlin, Cindy Lesinkski, Julie Nally, Mikhala Shumow, Ariel Matthews, Jonathan Waymire, Jonni Campos, Shani Donnelly, Wayne Larremore, Bree Cameron, Mary Mulligan King, Lorraine Perez Green, Trisha Miller, Laura Kirchhoff, Randy Billings, Tammy Austin Holguin, Lynn Schlossman, Lorrainne Killeen, Cindy Biehahn, Paul Jacques, Koren Young, Taylor Kellstrom, Alex Hafizi, Jason Gibbs and Scott Fushi.

For more information on ticketing and sponsorships for Wine on the Roof or Cocktails on the Roof set for 9/6/19, please contact Amy Daniels at WiSH@hartdistrict.org or go to www.wishscv.org

THE 9th ANNUAL ULTIMATE WHISKY EXPERIENCE Nth 2019 EXPANDS COLLECTION FOR EVENT APRIL 26 – 27, 2019 AT WYNN LAS VEGAS

February 18, 2019 by evebushman

The Ultimate Whisky and Luxury Spirits Experience Expanding the collection of fine premium, ultra-premium, and Super Premium spirits.

The Universal Whisky Experience presents to you the Nth Show 2019, the world’s premier luxury whisky and spirits experience. Hosted at The Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas, this master event showcases the best brands of both whiskies and spirits from all over the world. In the Nth Show 2019, we will be expanding our collection of unique whiskies to also include a collection of fine premium, ultra-premium and super-premium spirits.

With a new spacious main tasting venue at the Wynn Hotel and new event design, you will find an experience to deliciously overwhelm your tasting senses. Indulge in exceptional whisky tasting opportunities, mingle with master distillers, blenders and mixologists and learn more about the whisky and spirits world in the most unique event of its kind.

Guests can enjoy a menu of one of a kind experiences, including:

• A walk-around tasting featuring the world’s most distinguished and coveted whiskies and Fine Spirits

• Super Pours representing whiskies valued at more than $300 a dram

• New highlights from brands and launches at the show

• Intimate access to meet the makers of the best whiskies and Spirits in the world

• Wines, Champagne and delicious hors d’oeuvres

Two experience levels are available to purchase:

• High Roller Experience –Friday, April 26 – Saturday April 27, 2019

The premium package includes exclusive access to all show event and tastings including: High Roller Lounge featuring exclusive High Roller Super Pours, Private Events with other High Rollers, One-on-one meetings with brand ambassadors, The Nth show, Master Classes, Dinner Reception, High Roller Gift bag, cigars and more…

Price: $2595.00

• Connoisseur Experience – Saturday April 27, 2019

Guests seeking a high-touch experience with a few extra indulgences without going over the top will enjoy the Nthmain show, tasting all Whiskies and other Fine spirits, Super pours, hors d’oeuvres, and receive a cut crystal Glencairn tasting glass.

Price: $545.00

For more information please visit the website www.universalwhiskyexperience.com

Paso Robles Award Winning Estate Winery Holds Second Annual Harvest Dinner

November 22, 2018 by evebushman

PASO ROBLES, Calif. (PRWEB) – Paso Robles award winning estate winery, Allegretto Vineyards and Wines, held the second annual Harvest Dinner on October 19, 2018. This was an opportunity for the community to help the winery celebrate its harvest and meet the winemaker, Allen Kinne.

Photo: Allegretto Vineyards and Wines Facebook page

The evening began with hors d’euvres at sunset and concluded with live music under the stars on the Piazza Magica. Executive Chef Justin Picard prepared a culinary experience as the highlight of the evening. In celebration of the harvest, Allegretto poured their award-winning small lot, single vineyard and Allegretto estate wines.

The combined talents of winemaker Kinne and Chef Picard promised a magical evening of excellent wine, food, and good company.

Alan Kinne has been working with Allegretto Vineyards owner, Douglas Ayers, for the past six harvests, guiding the hand-picking harvest from all of the Allegretto vineyards and producing Allegretto’s award-winning Paso Robles estate wines. Kinne was the original winemaker at Horton Vineyards and helped launch Chrysalis Vineyards, both in Virginia, until leaving for Paso Robles in 1999. His winemaking career started in 1977 with Tabor Hill Winery in Michigan. Since then his career has taken him from Michigan to Virginia, to Paso Robles and Oregon and back to Paso Robles. Kinne is widely credited for introducing the Albariño grape to the Central Coast after planting the vines in Virginia in 1996.

Chef Justin Picard is the executive chef for Allegretto resort’s farm-to-table Mediterranean-inspired Cello Ristorante and Bar. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in New York, Picard has worked in some of the most renowned kitchens in San Francisco and Aspen. His extensive career has led to opportunities overseas, two guest appearances at the James Beard House in New York, and participation in some of the nation’s most celebrated food and wine events.

The turnout for the evening was greater than expected and set the stage for future winemaker dinners and events. All of the wines poured during the evening are available from the Allegretto Vineyards tasting room.

The wine menu at the Allegretto Vineyard and Wines tasting room include flights presenting estate white and rosé wines, and estate Malbec, Tannat, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Four different flights of award-winning wine are available. A special tasting room food menu from Allegretto Resort’s Cello Ristorante & Bar can be enjoyed with a bottle of wine in the family-friendly courtyard.

Allegretto Vineyard & Wines
2700 Buena Vista Dr., #101
Paso Robles, CA 93446
(805) 369-2526

BACA WINES TO HOST HOLIDAY DRIVE EVENT

November 19, 2018 by evebushman

Photo: Baca’s Facebook page

ST. HELENA, CALIFORNIA – BACA Wines, a modern California Zinfandel brand spearheaded by Director Jennifer Brown and Winemaker Alison Frichtl Hollister, has announced plans to host a Holiday Drive event at HALL St. Helena on December 1. This event will serve as the kick-off for a month long holiday drive campaign benefiting NEWS, a Napa-based non-profit that provides support to survivors of domestic violence and abuse.

Entrance to the event, which includes a wine tasting and light bites, is a donation-based contribution to NEWS through the Eventbrite by selecting a Game-centric monetary value. The donation system is modeled with four different levels of donation named after games. For example, the DOMINOS donation is $30, with the next donation level being JENGA, a $50 donation, and so on. Each individual donation will translate to one complimentary tasting per person.

The format of this event will include a round-robin of engaging activities. Guests will make their way into the HALL’s modern Mezzanine and be invited to enjoy a bevy of holiday activities including a holiday selfie station, be invited to play BACA-inspired larger than life games, all while enjoying appetizers and currently released BACA wines.

The four 2016 BACA Zinfandel wines available to taste during the event include Cat’s Cradle: Rockpile, Tug O’ War: Maffei Vineyard, Russian River Valley, I Spy: Howell Mountain, and Double Dutch: Dusi Vineyard, Paso Robles. The 2016 vintage marks the inaugural year for the luxury Zinfandel brand owned by Craig and Kathryn Hall, the makers of HALL and WALT Wines. Winemaker Alison Frichtl Hollister will be present to answer any questions for guests about crafting the high quality Zinfandel wines.

“On behalf of NEWS, we are honored to have been chosen to receive proceeds from the BACA Holiday Drive,” says NEWS Executive Director, Tracy Lamb. “The support we receive will help bring a safe and joyful holiday season to the many Napa Valley families that we serve.”

BACA is Latin for berry. The team sources fruit from some of California’s most notable growing regions—Russian River, Rockpile, Howell Mountain, and Paso Robles. Using masterful winemaking techniques that include optical sorting, exacting fermentations and aging in French oak barrels, BACA crafts powerful wines that reflect the unique places the grapes are grown. The result is four complex, charismatic Zinfandels that pair beautifully with both food and adventure.

HALL Wines
Mezzanine – Located in the Tasting Room, 2nd floor
401 St. Helena Hwy. South
St. Helena, CA 94574

Saturday, December 1, 2018
3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. PST

Entrance to this event is complimentary with the donation of a “Game Package” as listed below. The Game Packages include:
•   DOMINOS ($30 Donation)
•   JENGA ($50 Donation)
•   DICE ($70 Donation)
•   CHESS ($100 Donation).
There is also a Holiday Cheer ticket option on eventbrite that will allow for a monetary donation of one’s choice. Tickets can be secured HERE.

For more information, please visit www.bacawines.com, follow on social channels @bacawines, or by calling 707-967-2626.

BACA: Life’s An Adventure. Here’s To Those Who Drink It Up
BACA produces California Zinfandel sourced from some of the state’s most notable vineyards including Russian River Valley, Rockpile, Howell Mountain, and Paso Robles. Led by Winemaker Alison Frichtl Hollister and Director Jennifer Brown, the inaugural BACA 2016 wine portfolio includes four wines focusing on complex, high quality California Zinfandel. BACA is part of the HALL Family of wine brands and is produced at HALL Wines in St. Helena. For more information, please visit www.bacawines.com.

ABOUT N.E.W.S. NEWS- Domestic Violence & Sexual Abuse Services is a local non-profit, serving survivors and their children in Napa Valley. NEWS provides counseling, direct client services and a shelter that is available 24 hours a day/7 days a week. NEWS serves approximately 1,300 people each year and is continuing to grow and help their community. NEWS is dedicated to providing safety, hope, healing and empowerment for survivors of domestic and sexual abuse. Equally, NEWS is committed to promoting safe communities and social change through prevention, intervention, education, and advocacy. Donations would directly benefit NEWS’ staff and the people and families who they help every day. For more information, please visit https://www.napanews.org/.

Introducing Montrésor – New Lively French Bistro Gives Studio City a Taste of “La Belle Vie”!

March 19, 2018 by evebushman

(Studio City, CA) – Studio City has been building a reputation as a new dining mecca, not just for residents of “The Valley,” but for all throughout Greater Los Angeles. Now, an even more exciting addition, Montrésor, Studio City’s newest French bistro with Executive Chef Paul Shoemaker in the kitchen, emulates the grace and style of Paris in the 1920’s is calling this city home. Serving traditional French cuisine with innovative technique and a whimsical flare, this lively, neighborhood bistro has finally arrived just in time and Montrésor officially opened February 14th, 2018!

Photo Credit: acuna-hansen

Montrésor is the brainchild of actress, producer and long-time restaurateur, Lisa Long, and designer and partner, Ann Booth Luly. Long, originally raised in the Midwest, has made a name for herself in Los Angeles over her remarkable thirty-year career as an actress with over 77 film and television credits, and Restaurateur of some of L.A.’s top spots such as La Loggia Ristorante, Barsac Brasserie, Firenze Osteria with Top Chef fan favorite Chef Fabio Viviani, and The FLATS in Beverly Hills with Michelin starred Executive Chef Paul Shoemaker. Long met her now-business partner, Ann Booth Luly, 30 years ago on the set of a Pointer Sister video and the two hit it off right away. Luly is a multi-faceted talent who taught herself how to sew at the young age of 6. She began designing clothes for her family which led her to open a boutique store 20 years ago in Studio City called “Hoity Toity.” Her clothing store features her custom-made clothing, bags and functional art and from there, Luly branched out to restaurant design. Her stylistic eye and concern for the environment helped conceive the very essence of Montrésor’s look and design, creating a fun French setting for guests to feel swept away to the French countryside.

Long and Booth Luly, decided to partner professionally to open Montrésor, Studio City’s lively new French Bistro with Executive Chef Paul Shoemaker creating the menu and overseeing the kitchen. Shoemaker gained recognition at Alan Ducasse and French Laundry before making his way to the kitchens of Water Grill and Providence with Chef Michael Cimarusti, Firefly in Studio City, and his very own restaurant Savory in Malibu. His most noteworthy accomplishment was at Joe Pytka’s Bastide, where he earned himself a Michelin star in less than six months. Shoemaker’s recent talents landed him at INTRO Art Gallery & Chef’s Table, a secret supper club that took guests on a multi-sensory journey, before joining Long as Executive Chef at The FLATS in Beverly Hills, Long’s restaurant that specializes in delectable comfort foods, featuring artisan flatbread pizzas and mouthwatering burgers all served with fresh, Farmers Market produce.

Shoemaker was excited to get back to cooking traditional French cuisine with some innovative techniques he has learned along the way. “I like to take a classic dish and have a little fun, give it some flair and get playful. I want to create something different, that stands out amongst the classics,” says Shoemaker. Rich flavors combined with the beautiful, fresh produce Angelenos are accustomed to seeing at Farmers’ Markets will be making a noteworthy appearance on the opening menu. “It is simple and classic French cuisine prepared with modern technique and seasonal ingredients, accompanied by an eclectic wine bar,” states Shoemaker. Guests will start their evening with a choice of Appetizers including a crisp Bib Lettuce Salad with avocado, fines herbs and a tarragon cream dressing, the French Onion Soup with house-made baguette croutons, Mussels in a garlic white wine sauce, or fresh the Crab Cake served with remoulade and frisée. The Entrées include a choice of the Black Truffle Winter Gnocchi served with a Reggiano foam, the delicious Short Rib with a potato purée, the Salmon served over a porcini ragu and Bloomsdale spinach, and 10 oz. Bone in Tenderloin Steak with potato pavé and tomato confit. Dessert includes two delectable choices to start: the classic, French Profiteroles served with an almond toffee brittle, vanilla ice cream and topped with chocolate sauce, and the delicate Crème Brulée served with a savory pistachio biscotti.

Like the infamous wine regions of France, Montrésor has an eclectic wine list to perfectly pair with Chef Shoemaker’s menu. Enjoy the Château Haut Rian from Bordeaux or a glass of the Saint-Véran blend from Burgundy as each wine is offered by the glass and has been handpicked to accompany your meal. Guests can enjoy a bottle of the Puligny Montrachet, the Château Monbousquet, or the Perrier Jouët “Belle Epoque” champagne. Those that prefer a fruiter, New World California wine can also enjoy a selection of Northern California selections such as the Stags Leap Cellars Sauvignon Blanc, the Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay, and the beloved Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon. Beer aficionados can also enjoy a bottle of Chimay “Grand Réserve Blue, Delirium Tremens, Bavik, Gavroche, Duchesse de Bourgogne or Saison Du Pont, and there is also a selection of American beers including the Allagash, Anderson Valley, Old Stock and Old Rasputin to match every beer-lover’s preference.

Montrésor, which translates to “my treasure” in English, is just that. Tucked away on Ventura Boulevard, Montrésor was designed with a 1920’s French theme in mind, full of vintage design and repurposed decor at every turn. A vintage refurbished headboard serves as one of the restaurant’s benches while the 8-foot reclaimed wooden doors are recycled from a winery in Orange County. Even the mannequin bodice lamp was recycled and crafted by Luly herself. Every hand-picked piece at Montrésor tells a story, full of whimsical inspiration. Luly wanted to evoke a feeling that guests were effortlessly transported to the past, in a way that is both whimsical and comfortable. “From the beginning, the vision for the design of the restaurant was to inspire a lively, yet romantic setting, leaving guests feeling reminiscent of the late 1800’s in the Loire Valley of France where the village of Montrésor is located,” explains Luly. “From the moment you first see the green patina on the exterior of Montrésor and then enter through the carved wood doors, guests will see a copper patina ceiling and etched glass extending down to the carefully hand-tufted banquettes, creating a sense of whimsical decadence. I really tried to create a world of treasures,” says Luly. “Walls painted in a Venetian plaster help to conjure a feeling as though we traveled back in time to decades past, while the rich burgundy and pewter colors, with green and gold accents make you think of the Rhône and Burgundy valley. That, and of course the wall of decorated wine bottles and red, silk brocade.”

As guests sit amongst playful, French vintage decor in the heart of Studio City, each of their senses are playfully indulged leaving one feeling delighted and sentimental. Vive La France and Vive Montrésor!

Montrésor is open Tuesday through Sunday from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm. For more information about Montrésor, please visit www.Montresor.LA or call Montrésor directly.

Montrésor
11266 Ventura Boulevard
Studio City, CA 91604
T: 818.760.7081
www.Montresor.LA

What This Italian Found at the New and Improved Sisley Kitchen

October 6, 2017 by evebushman

Sisley got such an unbelievable re-boot this year (2017) that it’s now the most incredible bar and dining venue you have ever seen – and probably will ever see – in the Santa Clarita Valley.

My extreme close-up of the Grilled Brussels Sprouts at Sisley Kitchen…I took some leftovers home and tossed on pasta = so good!

(Note: If you came in during the soft opening phase this summer and let the management know that you wanted some of your favorite menu items back and a longer Happy Hour – your voice was heard so keep reading.)

Walking up to Sisley from the parking structure you will now see a new side lounge (aka the West Patio) with trees, sofas and a large screen television. The front outdoor patio is still a great dining choice, capable of serving several large parties. It’s a bit more colorful too, along with a bar that I bet could be easily be filled with cocktail-ers.

Entering through the same doors as before your eyes will gravitate – everywhere! The focal point for me began in the center of the room. An enormous oval-shaped bar replaced the original dining area. Doesn’t stop there. The area is crowned by the most amazing chandelier, equally as expansive as the bar, that lights up not only the bar but the new turquoise bar chairs, booths, and communal table. Definitely a place to be seen – and for selfies.

Then you just gotta look around! Both red, gray and turquoise upholstered tables and booth seating will catch your eye. More chandeliers! Two private dining rooms – one enclosed and the other open. For me, I’m thinking one for meetings and one for partying! Also new is a lovely little dessert and coffee station, very tantalizing!

At Sisley you will find…what real Italians eat. The recipes come from the Alba family: owners Fran and Jamie along with three generations of Albas, as well as recipes culled from multiple visits to Italy’s best restaurants. And this Italian approved of it.

These are some of the appetizer items I sampled that I would suggest you try: Calamari Fritte, Adult Mac N’ Cheese, Spanish Octopus, Italian Quesadilla and the Grilled Brussels Sprouts. The new Bar Bites Menu also has the Italian Quesadilla and Brussels Sprouts but also Ceviche, Bacon Wrapped Dates, Chopped Salad, Bruschetta, Meatball, Mini Pizza, Colorado Lamb Ribs, Carnitas Tacos…and drink specials that included not only domestic beer, well drinks and house wine but also the Daily Bartender’s Specialty, Margarita and select Martinis! The current “Summer Haze Happy Hour” menu is offered to those over 21 in the bar area only, and is nice and long: Monday through Saturday 12-6pm and again from 9pm until closing! Honestly, there is truly something for everyone from weekend brunching to business lunching or just casual fun times over dinner, you will be entertained.

As far as dinner fare I only had room in my tummy for one, after sampling all those apps, so I got my favorite: Fettuccine Carbonara…clearly I have to go back as there are many more items to try including their Sous Vide Filet Mignon, Pork Chop, Cioppino, Chicken Parmesan, Linguini and Clams, Chilean Sea Bass…as well as plenty of pizza and pasta options. A little bird told me to stay tuned come October…new additions are coming to the already new menu!

Sisley Kitchen, 24201 Valencia Blvd, Valencia, CA 91355, (661) 287-4444

www.sisleykitchen.com, Hours 11:30AM – 1:00AM.

Vintage Eve Circa 5/2014: Six out of 661 Questions for Wine 661

September 19, 2017 by evebushman

To keep myself busy while caring for my injured-yet-again spouse, satisfied more by angry single malt Scotch than the doctor prescribed Vicodin, I called Tanya Green, the new owner of Wine 661 to find out what new things they are offering the SCV wine drinking public, myself copiously included.

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Okay Tanya, I have been to this location before, when it was Wine Savor and now as Wine 661. Jeff Jacobson, chair of the SCV Wine Classic, suggested that I talk to you as he holds you in high regard as the new owner. Want to tell West Ranch Beacon readers what your wine story is?

My “wine story” is pretty simple…I love wine so I bought a wine bar, but my passion for wine began by going tasting. I love listening to the experts explain how the grapes were grown and fermented; why I’ll taste certain things because of the composition of the soil, that fruit grown on mountain tops develops thicker skins because of its proximity to the sun and therefore has more character than thin-skinned grapes.

I also have a strange fascination/respect for grapes that are difficult to grow, so those are the wines I’m most interested in. Everything about wine fascinates me from the farming of the grapes to the finished product, which makes owning a wine bar, like being a kid in a candy shop! I love it!

I understand you are serving beers as well as wine; what are some of your customer’s favorites from both?

To me, it was important to be able to carry something other than wine just in case a “beer guy” was dragged in by his wife. That’s why I spent months tasting beer from all over the world to put together, what I think, is the best beer list in town.

I carry rare, hard-to-get beers and artisan ales from Belgium, France, Germany, Austria, Oregon, Santa Barbara and Maine. Each of my beers has won some sort of award from “Best Hefeweizen” to “Best Beer in the World.”

Schonramer Gold, for example, is a German Pilsner that won “Best Beer in the World” for 13 straight years and had to be removed from the contest to allow another beer the opportunity to win. I’m proud to carry a beer that good, and, I personally have grown to love beer as much, if not more, than wine.

My personal favorite is a cork-finished 750ml bottle of Belgian Farmhouse Ale called Saison Dupont. It’s gold and hoppy and has lots of personality. I pride myself on carrying beers that no one else carries and in most cases, beers that no one’s even heard of.

This may be off-putting to Coors Light lovers but I don’t mind. I want adventurous drinkers in here. Those that know what they like but can get excited to try something new. Nothing excites me more than transforming a Coors Light drinker into a beer snob!

What’s new now that you’ve taken over?

Wine 661 was a great spot long before I took it over. The ambience is comfortable and cozy and in my opinion, the best in the Valley, but I can’t take credit for that.

What I can take credit for, is a great appetizer list; including some amazing gourmet cheeses from all over the world (my fave is the five-year aged Gouda and the Spanish Blue cheese) as well as artisanal meats from near and far.

I’ve also changed the beer and wine lists and am proud of both. I promise to always rotate my beer and wine inventory so that my regulars never get bored and to carry both inexpensive as well as high-end beer and wines.

Tell readers what’s on your menu and any specials:

The most popular items on my menu are my cheese and chocolate flights. For the “Cheese Flight,” I’ve paired three red wines with gourmet cheeses that compliment them. Cave-aged blue cheese is paired with a phenomenal Merlot. The semi-hard, Manchego from Spain is paired with a complex and delicious Tempranillo and finally a 5 year aged Gouda is paired with a California Zinfandel. The “Chocolate Flight” is the same idea; three reds paired with three different E.Guittard chocolates with different cocoa contents. I think of it as delicious and fun.

Your employee Kirsten is a delight. She poured us some very different water to go with our wine, what’s that about?

The water at Wine 661 has taken on a life of its own. I’ve always loved spa water infused with various fruits (the combinations are endless) so I take filtered tap water and infuse it with cucumber and lemon. It’s refreshing and different and people freak out over it. I serve it chilled in a frosted 750 ml wine bottle over ice. I recently had a customer visit a resort in Hawaii where similar water was served by the pool. When she tried theirs, she told the pool-side waitress that ‘while it was good, it wasn’t as good as the water at Wine 661.’

Tell us what your customers can expect as far as service?

I don’t think anyone can possibly care about their guests as much as the owner so I try to be here six days per week to ensure that everyone who walks through the door has a good experience. I like to have a good time and not take myself too seriously, and I think the service here reflects that. We’re pretty down to earth so people will always feel comfortable and at ease. We get to know our guests and over time we become like family with many of our regulars. I try to remember everyone’s name although I usually find it easier to remember their wine preference. The service here is personal and nowhere near stuffy. There is a certain sophistication that comes with serving and selling wine but this is a casual environment meant for a having a great time and good laugh!

Well, now that now that your palate is whetted by the wine, beer and water at Wine 661, in the immortal words of Ferris Bueller, “Life moves pretty fast. You don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” Now…go!

Eve visits: Hidden Chateau and Gardens for a French wine tasting (circa Sept 2009)

September 1, 2017 by evebushman

If you know me you know I don’t leave my own little valley too often, except, for wine. Later this month I will brave the LA County Fair to experience two wine classes. I’m pressing my husband Eddie for an October Paso trip. And my friend Nick Morello is ready for me to descend on Terravant Wine Company in Buellton.

But drive? Myself? On a weeknight? It would have to be something pretty cool. And my new best friend, Katie Mahanes, had just the right invite to get me off Facebook and into…a former stable?

So this was the deal: Katie invited me to a French wine pairing dinner at the Hidden Chateau & Gardens in West Hills. (http://www.hiddenchateau.com) I’d never heard of the chef, the wines, the venue…I started to realize that I would never put down my wine 101 glass for the proper one if I didn’t check this out:

Constructed in 1934 – 1936 by silent movie actor, Francis Lederer and his wife, Marion, it was originally built as a horse stable housing Mrs. Lederer’s horse, Gypsy. In 1967, Mrs. Lederer along with Mary and Obdulio Galeana opened the Canoga Mission Gallery, featuring folk art and artifacts from Mexico. The building was named a Historical Cultural Monument #135 on December 4, 1974 by the Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Commission. The stone and adobe building replicates the style of the original California missions. With 1.5 acres of exquisite shaded grounds and gently meandering stone paths, the monument has a Spanish-style roof and was built of stone quarried on their ranch located across the street.

Now occupied by The Hidden Chateau & Gardens, it is a popular site for parties, weddings, teas, and corporate events. While brick and stone architecture lend a rustic appeal, a colonnade of graceful archways lead into an elegant garden with a gazebo.

Wine List:
Macon-fuisse Bourgogne 2004: Chardonnay
Robert Karcher Vin D’Alsace 2004: Sylvaner
Cotes du Rhone Saint Esprit 2007: Syrah/Grenache
Chateau des Matards Cotes de Blaye 2005: Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot

Menu:
Appetizer
Warm French Baguette with Red Pepper and tomatoes salad, Tapenade and Pesto.

Cena Signature Salad of Candied pecans, sliced red onions, cranberries and Gorgonzola cheese tossed with homemade Dijon vinaigrette dressing.

Assiette de Charcuterie – Terrine de Campagne, Salami, and Prosciutto

Grilled Shrimp with ginger and garlic sauce

Chicken Basquaise – Pan Seared Chicken Breast, Grilled red pepper, zucchini, eggplant and tomato sauce

So there I am, almost out of my element as I really could have seen myself as alone…had it not been for Katie. She expertly turned her latest Facebook friend -into a fan.

The pairing by Chef Charlie didn’t lack for anything. His elegant and delicate fare was paired not only with elegantly styled wines but was framed by waterfalls & fountains, music and lush foliage.

The appetizer trio that I enjoyed included both an olive tapenade and a pesto tickling my tongue, was accompanied by an Alsace wine by Rober Karcher that Chef Charlie said was 50% Pinot Gris and 50% Pinot Blanc. “This is the only way the winemaker does it – as it makes the wine less sweet and palatable with salads and appetizers.” The salad, a Gargonzola and candied pecan salad garnished with cranberry jelly, lemon, extra virgin olive oil and Dijon mustard, was delightful with the wine.

“Being in Fallbrook mall, Ceno, my restaurant and wine store, competed with Trader Joe’s on one end and Woodland Hills Wine Co. on the other. At first I stuck to about 95% French, Spanish and Italian wines that I know so well. But my customers broadened my awareness of Napa and Paso and now I love the Grenache, Pinot Noirs and Zinfandel wines too.”

The homemade charcuterie that came next had my mouth watering moments before fork met palate. Chef Charlie talked of the hours each required to reach their required flavor while I simmered on the Cote du Rhone now being poured. With 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah this Chateuneuf du Pape styled wine accompanied not only the charcuterie but excellently paired with the grilled shrimp.

What appeared next to be a simple chicken dish was, in truth, described by Chef Charlie as a pretty remarkable feat: each vegetable had been grilled separately then added together only at the end with garlic and olive oil. Paired with our final wine of the evening, a Bordeaux with 75% Cab and 25% Merlot, that was the bottle I knew I would drive back for.

When the trio of desserts arrived, I could name without any help but was stunned by just the same. (Crème brûlée, Lemon tart, Crème fraîche) I wished it as appropriate for a wine blogger to get a doggie bag, a bottle, and still make it home in time to Facebook about my evening. I always make abrupt exits. It’s my signature. Like Cinderella leaving the ball before the prince finds out…she ate or drank too much.

Kissing Katie goodbye was hard. But nowhere near as hard, sorry Katie, as leaving the Hidden Chateau and Gardens.