Vintage Eve Circa 11/2018 – How Was the Stars of Cabernet 2018? Two Words: New Discoveries

March 23, 2021 by evebushman

From WineLA.com: A Cabernet showcase, bringing the best producers to Los Angeles…meet the owners, winemakers, and executives and taste over 100 top quality cabernet wines…held at The Peninsula Beverly Hills, a 5-star and 5-Diamond property.

Eve and WineLA.com founder Ian Blackburn in 2016.

This is the 10^th anniversary of the Stars of Cabernet grand tasting event expertly orchestrated by Wine LA’s founder Ian Blackburn. I don’t think I’ve attended every event, but I’ve certainly covered a large number of them. With that said, I believe that this year held a lot of new discoveries for me as well as others, as the crowd was also very pleased with what they found.

The pour list is below, and as is my habit in a large public tasting, my notes are limited as to which wines captured my interest due to excellent aroma, flavor and a wholly pleasant tasting experience. I also was unable to visit every table and every wine, but I think I covered plenty of new ground. The wines I found most preferable, and that I will seek out to try to visit and purchase, are noted below in italics. (If you just want to see photos go here.)

STARS OF CABERNET WINE LIST

ADDENDUM WINES
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 Skellenger Lane, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford
2015 Stagecoach Vineyard, Cabernet Sauvignon, Atlas Peak

ALLEGRETTO VINEYARDS
2014 Malbec, Paso Robles
2015 Tannat, Paso Robles
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Willow Creek
2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, Willow Creek

ALMAVIVA WINERY
2009 Bordeaux Red Blend, Puente Alto, Maipo Valley, Chile
2014 Bordeaux Red Blend, Puente Alto, Maipo Valley, Chile
2015 Bordeaux Red Blend, Puente Alto, Maipo Valley, Chile

ANDERSON CONN VALLEY
2015 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 “Eloge” Prop Red Blend, Napa Valley
2016 “Right Bank” Prop Red Blend, Napa Valley
2015 “Signature” Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

BERNARDUS – I have visited this winery in Carmel Valley in the past and was pleased to taste this vertical presentation, the 2010 being my overall favorite.
2010 Marinus Estate, Marinus Red, Carmel Valley
2011 Marinus Estate, Marinus Red, Carmel Valley
2012 Marinus Estate, Marinus Red, Carmel Valley
2013 Marinus Signature Estate, Marinus Red, Carmel Valley

CAMI
2014 Red Wine Blend Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 Red Wine Blend Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

CHATEAU POTELLE VGS
2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Mount Veeder, Napa Valley
2016 FOURMEAUX, Red Blend, Wildcat Mountain Vineyard, Mount Veeder, Napa Valley
2016 Zinfandel, Alta Vista Vineyard, Moon Mountain, Sonoma County
2016 Potelle Two, Red Blend, Napa Valley

CHATEAU BOSWELL
2015 “At Anchor,” Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

CLOS DU VAL
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

DUCKHORN WINE COMPANY – The opportunity to taste the 2006 Estate Cab was a mindblower. Hope you have some in your cellar. Also enjoyed the 2015 as well.
2015 Duckhorn Napa Valley Cabernet
2016 Decoy Sonoma County Cabernet
2006 Duckhorn Estate “Patzimaro Vineyard” Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

FRANK FAMILY VINEYARDS – The 2014 was my favorite, however I enjoyed the older 2013 almost as much.
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2014 Rutherford Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford
2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Winston Hill Red, Rutherford
2016 Chardonnay, Carneros, Sonoma County

HAWK & HORSE VINEYARDS –A favorite at every STARS of Cab event I think, the Hawk and Horse 2009 Cab blew my socks off. Noticing a trend of liking some of these older Cabs…
2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills Lake County
2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills Lake County
2012 Latigo Cabernet Sauvignon Dessert Wine, Red Hills Lake County

HERB LAMB VINEYARDS – HL Vineyards was a new one for me. I noted that I enjoyed the 2014 best.
2011 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

HERTELENDY VINEYARDS – Another new winery discovery for me, I enjoyed both reds that were poured: the 2014 Cab and 2015 blend. This is a winery to watch.

2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 Chardonnay, Ritchie Vineyard, Russian River Valley
2015 Signature Mountain Blend, Napa Valley

HESTAN VINEYARDS
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Stephanie, Napa Valley
2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Blend, Napa Valley
2015 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast

JACK WINERY
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2016 Proprietary Red Blend, Napa Valley
2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

JONATA
2006 El Desafio De Jonata “the Defiance” Cabernet Sauvignon, Ballard
Canyon, Santa Ynez Valley
2015 The Hilt “Estate” Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills
2014 Jonata Todos Red Wine Vineyard Blend Ballard Canyon, Santa Ynez Valley

LADERA VINEYARDS – Another new discovery from Napa Valley. Meeting and tasting with managing partner Kacey Stotesbery – and I was completely charmed by the reds. I took her card with the idea of visiting soon.
2017 Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2014 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain

LAUREL GLEN VINEYARDS
2015 Counterpoint Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Mountain
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate, Sonoma Mountain

MAISON D’AMIS – Enjoyed the 2014 Red Wine Napa Valley for its percentage of Cabernet Franc.
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2014 Red Wine Napa Valley
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford
2016 Chenin Blanc, Clarksburg

MARCIANO ESTATE WINERY – Only one wine to taste here? No problem. It was pretty good.
2015 Marciano Estate M Proprietary Red Wine

MERRY VALE VINEYARDS – 2014 and 2015 were both quite grand. I hadn’t had a Merry Vale wine in awhile, glad I revisited.
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 Profile Red Wine, Napa Valley

MORAGA BEL AIR –This private vineyard in Bel Air, that sells to wine clubs and some local restaurants, was a treat to taste. The 2009 was stellar. Hope to get to try more in the future.
2009 Moraga Red, Los Angeles County
2014 Moraga Red, Los Angeles County
2014 Moraga White, Los Angeles County
2016 Moraga White, Los Angeles County

NELLCÔTE WINERY – Liked both of these Cabs extremely well.
2015 ‘Rallye 76’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 ‘500 Chevaux’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

PALAZZO WINE
2013 ‘Right Bank’ Reserve Proprietary Red Blend, Napa Valley
2016 ‘Left Bank’ Red Cuvee / Master Blend Series, Napa Valley

RELIC WINE CELLARS – I passed over the Pinot Noir as my taste buds were set to Cab, but the Rhone Blend, Grenache and Cab bottlings were all excellent.
2015 Ritual Rhone Blend, Napa Valley
2015 Paras Grenache, Napa Valley
2015 Putnam Pinot Noir, Napa Valley
2014 Artefact Cabernet, Napa Valley

RIBOLI FAMILY WINES
2014 Stormwatch Bordeaux Blend, Paso Robles
2013 Riboli Family Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford
2014 San Antonio “Centennial Blend”, Paso Robles
2014 Artefact Cabernet, Napa Valley

ROY ESTATE
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2014 Proprietary Red, Napa Valley

S.R. TONELLA CELLARS – There was also a 2010 Cab that I enjoyed at this table, as well as the 2015. And yes, another new one for me to discover.
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford Estate
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford Estate
2017 Sauvignon Blanc Reserve, Rutherford/Oakville

TRUJILLO WINES
2015 Trujillo Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 Madelynne Red Blend, Napa Valley

TUCK BECKSTOFFER ESTATE
2014 Amulet, Napa Valley
2014 Mockingbird Red Label, Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville
2014 Mockingbird Blue Label, Cabernet Sauvignon, Saint Helena
2015 Dancing Hares, Red Wine, Saint Helena

VINEYARD 29
2016 Cru Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 Aida Cabernet Sauvignon, St Helena
2015 29 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, St Helena

THE UNFILTERED COLLECTION
2014 AXR Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2014 Debate, Cabernet Sauvignon, To Kalon, Dr. Crane, Missouri Hopper
2014 Clark-Claudon Vineyards ‘Eternity’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain
2011 Michel Rolland “MR”, Napa Valley

CHÂTEAU GABY – The 2014 Cuvee stole the show for me at this table. And it was another new wine for me.
2014 Cuvee, Bordeaux Canon-Fronsac, France
2012 Chateau Gaby Bordeaux Canon-Fronsac, France
2014 Chateau Du Parc, St. Emillion Grand Cru, Bordeaux, France
2014 Chateau Moya, Cotes de Bordeaux, France

THE UNFILTERED COLLECTION – Tickled to find some Bordeaux from South Africa being offered. I really enjoyed the 2014 Finlayson Cabernet Franc, hoping to find that one again! And the last one that was new for me!
2016 Delaire Graff Botmaskop, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2015 De Toren Fusion V, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2012 Glenelly ‘Lady May’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2014 Finlayson Family Vineyards Edgebaston GS Cabernet Sauvignon, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2014 Finlayson Family Wines David Finlayson Camino Africana Cabernet Franc, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2014 Simonsig Tiara, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2014 Rustenberg John X Merriman, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2014 Overgaauw Tria Corda, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2015 Thelema Mountain Vineyards ‘Thelema’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2014 Zevenwacht Z Reserve, Stellenbosch, South Africa

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 15k 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.

2021 TASTE Hall of Fame Inductees include Gail Simmons, Gary Vaynerchuk, Jon Taffer, Ruth Reichl…

January 27, 2021 by evebushman

LOS ANGELES AND SAN FRANCISCO (PRWEB) – The TASTE AWARDS Committee, celebrating the best in food, fashion, and lifestyle programming on television, film, online and streaming video, on radio and in podcasts, is pleased to announce inductees in the Eighth class of the TASTE HALL OF FAME. Inductees include tastemakers, celebrities, and industry leaders such as Gail Simmons, Gary Vaynerchuk, Jon Taffer, Nigella Lawson, Questlove, Ruth Reichl, and Zendaya.

Eighth year TASTE HALL OF FAME Inductees are selected based on either having received numerous TASTE AWARDS and finalist nominations over the years, or having made a significant impact in the world of taste and broadcast entertainment. Inductees range from television and movies, to online video, radio, and real world experiences.

8th TASTE Hall of Fame Inductees are:

A Taste of Louisiana
Andre Leon Talley
Architectural Digest
Buddy Valastro
Burt Wolfe
Chefs Table
Debi Mazar & Gabriele Corcos
Dining with the Chef
Dwell
Engineer Your Space
Equitrekking
Gail Simmons
Gary Vaynerchuk
Hotel Impossible
House Hunters International
House of Style (CNN)
How Do I Look? (Style Network)
James Charles
Jon Taffer
Kitchen Nightmares
Lucky Chow
Masterchef Latino
Michelle Bernstein
Nigella Lawson
Paint this with Jerry Yarnell
Questlove
Real Housewives of Beverly Hills
Ruth Reichl
Unwrapped
WatchMojo
Wine Road Podcast
Zendaya

Says TASTE AWARDS Chair, A.K Crump, “We are very proud of this year’s TASTE Hall of Fame inductees and all that they have achieved and contributed. In a normal year we would hold their induction during the annual TASTE AWARDS ceremony and awards show in Beverly Hills. This year it does look like we’ll be doing at least that portion virtually.” The Academy also has announced plans for a live Hall of Fame exhibition in California in fall of 2021.

The Annual TASTE AWARDS have included appearances by stars, celebrities, producers and executives from networks and platforms such as the Food Network, the Style Network, Bravo, the Cooking Channel, Sony Pictures, DreamWorks, TLC, Discovery Communications, Lifetime Network, E! Entertainment Television, PBS, APT, Create TV, NBC, ABC, the CW, HGTV, the Travel Channel, HD Net, Hulu, YouTube, Vimeo, Vice, LiveWell Network, Esquire Network, Bio/FYI Channel, iHeart Radio, HBO, MyxTV, Small Screen Network, StyleHaul, PTA, Zagat, Mode Media, WatchMojo, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Instagram, Facebook, and more.

The viewer appetite and response to food and style programs has surged over the last decade, making them some of the highest watched and sponsored broadcast and broadband content. The TASTE AWARDS spotlight the year’s best achievements in food, fashion, and lifestyle programs on television, in film, online, in podcasts and on radio.

As an awards show and as an industry networking and validation event, the TASTE Awards have launched scores of notable business partnerships and projects for nominees, winners, presenters, and sponsors.

Along with the TASTE Hall of Fame announcement, several association partnerships and sponsorships for the upcoming TASTE Awards include TasteTV, Intermezzo Magazine, SIP For the Love of Drink Magazine, Schiltz Farm’s Roast Goose, PRWeb, SIXTY Beverly Hills, Clubcard Printing, BridalChocolate.com, KRCB, and FilmFreeway. In honor of this year’s TASTE AWARDS, a collab with R&B Cellars has also released an ultra-limited edition fine wine of only 100 bottles called “Domaine de Taste: The Gift”.

For more information about the TASTE Awards, go to http://www.TheTasteAwards.com, as well as get updates on Twitter at http://www.Twitter.com/TASTEAwards. Previous TASTE HALL OF FAME classes can be seen at http://www.TasteHallofFame.com

Vintage Eve Circa Feb. 2018: Tasting the 2015 Vintage From Union Des Grands Crus de Bordeaux

September 22, 2020 by evebushman

The Beverly Hills Hotel was a perfect backdrop for a tasting of the latest Bordeaux, the release of the 2015 vintage. The chandelier that hung over the center of the room was dimmed only by the stellar wines served below it. Grateful to have a chance to taste through so many wines I quickly took up the task. These are my takeaways:

Reasonably Priced for All

While most Grand Crus Bordeaux can easily warrant a triple digit price tag, there were several that had very reasonable price points, making Bordeaux accessible to everyone. I ran into local winemaker Roman Weiser and then later, million-dollar-palate owner Mark Newman, who both commented on the fact. So if you are holding back on getting some Bordeaux – stop.

Bordeaux We Liked – And We Couldn’t Taste Them All

I have four grids of photos below showing at least 30+ wines that I found remarkable, but there were many more that we didn’t have the time to taste in our generous three-hour window allocated for press before the evening’s public tasting. Some of the standouts for me included:

Chateau Leoville Poyferre poured by Anne Cuvelier once again, Chateau Langoa Barton, Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion, Chateau de Chantegrive, Chateau LaGrange, Chateau Gruad Larose, Domaine de Chevalier, Chateau Pichon Baron, Chateau Smith Havt Lafitte, Chateau de France, Chateau Larrivet Haut-Brion, Chateau Pape Clement, Chateau Latour-Martillac, Chateau Pichon Longueville, Chateau Lynch Bages, Chateau Gazin, Chateau Coufran, Chateau Brane-Cantenac and Chateau Dauzac.

White Bordeaux we enjoyed were from Chateau de France, Chateau Smith Havt Lafitte, Chateau Larrivet Haut-Brion, Chateau Pape Clement, Chateau Malartic-Largraviere, Chateau Brane-Cantenac, Chateau Dauzac and Chateau Latour-Martillac. My takeaway on the White Bordeaux, most made with Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, was that these seemed so much fresher and less acidic than our version of Sauvignon Blanc. (I commented on this to Weiser and he told me that even if we were to add Semillon to our Sauvignon Blanc stateside we still lacked the terroir to make it the way the French have mastered it.)

Every Sauterne poured may have made our list: Chateau Suduiraut, Chateau Lafaurie-Peyraguey, Chateau De Fargues, Chateau Guiraud, Chateau Clos Haut-Peyraguey and Chateau Coutet. My takeaway: The Sauternes stole the show again. Look for these in splits and enjoy liked we did: with a large hunk of sharp blue cheese.

About Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux

Established in 1973, the Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux is a group of 135 top Châteaux in the most prized appellations in the Gironde, Médoc, Graves, Pessac-Léognan, Sauternes and Barsac, Saint Émilion and Pomerol.

MEMBERS OF THE UNION DES GRANDS CRUS DE BORDEAUX

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.

Top L.A. Restaurants & Bars Now Offering Cocktails, Wine, Beer, Sangria and Spirits for Takeout/ Delivery For Delicious Dining and Drinking at Home

April 5, 2020 by evebushman

Georgia’s Restaurant (Long Beach): Georgia’s Restaurant is also now offering Wine and Beer for Takeout and Delivery. Wines by the Bottle feature two White Wines including the Prophecy Pinot Grigio ($18) and the Athena Chardonnay ($21). Red Wines by the Bottle include the Carnivor Cabernet Sauvignon ($21) and the Rabble Red Blend ($24). Beer is also now offered including LC Tangerine ($3.50), Scrimshaw ($3.50), LC IPA ($3.50), LC Great White ($3.50) or the LC Hazy IPA ($3.50).

Photo courtesy of Georgia’s Restaurant.

Georgia’s Restaurant at the Long Beach Exchange now offers Wines by the Bottle and Beer for Takeout and Delivery Monday through Sunday from 11:30 am to 6:00 pm; 4101 McGowen Street, Suite 115, Long Beach, CA 92630; 714.906.1900; www.Georgias-Restaurant.com

Gus’s Barbecue (South Pasadena): Gus’s Barbecue is now offering Southern Sangria, their Gus’s Old Fashioned and Gus’s Private Reserve Single Barrel Old Forester Kentucky Bourbon for Takeout and Delivery. Gus’s Barbecue will be offering their signature 16 oz. Southern Sangria ($16 each), their 12 oz. Gus’s Old Fashioned ($16 each), and Gus’s Private Reserve Single Barrel Old Forester Kentucky Bourbon by the bottle ($45).

Gus’s Barbecue in South Pasadena now offers Southern Sangria, their Gus’s Old Fashioned, and Gus’s Private Reserve Single Barrel Old Forester Kentucky Bourbon for Takeout and Delivery Monday through Thursday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, Friday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, Saturday from 8:30 am to 11:00 pm, and Sunday from 8:30 am to 10:00 pm; 808 Fair Oaks Ave, South Pasadena; 626.799.3251; www.GussBBQ.com

The Raymond 1886 (Pasadena): The Raymond 1886 is now offering Wine, Beer and 1886 Pre-Made Cocktails for Takeout and Delivery. Wines by the Bottle ($18.86 each) feature two White Wines including the Altamonte, Pinot Grigio, Alto Adige, 2018 and the Bonny Doon “Gravitas” Blend, Santa Cruz, 2015. Red Wines by the Bottle include the Condado de Haza, Tempranillo, Ribera del Duero, 2015 and the El Esteco, Malbec, Calchaqui Valley, 2017. Beer is offered by the Six Pack ($12.50 each) including Day Beer Lager-Brewed with Czech Sass, Hallertauer Mittlefruch Hops, 4.5% ABV or the Stone Delicious IPA with Lemondrop & El Dorado Hops, 7.7% ABV. Lastly, The Raymond 1886 is also featuring handcrafted COCKTAILS-TO-GO (4 Servings – $45) created by the 1886 Bar Team and prepared in Mason Jars. The three Cocktails offered are the 1886 Negroni prepared with gin, Carpano Antica Vermouth, Campari, and orange oil, the Little Italy comprised of rye whiskey, Carpano Antica Vermouth, and Cynar, or the Fair & Warmer, a blend of rums, Dolin Sweet Vermouth, house curacao, and lemon oil.

The Raymond 1886 now offers Wine, Beer and 1886 Pre-Made Cocktails for Takeout and Delivery every Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm; 1250 South Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91105; 626.441.3136; www.TheRaymond.com

Via Alloro (Beverly Hills): Via Alloro is now offering a special selection of Wines by the Bottle from their Award-Winning Wine List for Takeout and Delivery every Monday through Sunday from 12:30 pm to 7:30 pm to support the community and their guests’ in-home needs. Via Alloro will also be offering 25% OFF ALL WINE ORDERS to all guests that call the restaurant to order directly. To place a Takeout Order, please call Via Alloro at 310.275.2900 and the restaurant also offers Curbside Pickup. Guests can also order from Postmates if they prefer delivery.

Via Alloro now offers Wines by the Bottle for Takeout and Delivery every Monday through Sunday from 12:30 pm to 7:30 pm; 310 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210; 310.275.2900; www.ViaAlloro.com

Fall In Love = Fontanafredda Barolo + Spago Beverly Hills

February 14, 2020 by evebushman

So this is what happened: along with other group members of #LaWineWriters I was invited to Spago Beverly Hills “for a tasting and luncheon hosted by esteemed Barolo producer Fontanafredda. Lead winemaker Giorgio Lavagna will take us through a tasting of Fontanafredda’s current Barolo releases, as well as a selection of special library gems going back 20+ years. The culinary team at Spago will design a menu to match the wines…”

Fontanafredda, a name I knew for Barolo, so I was more than happy to taste.

The wine list, priced between $54 and $165 per bottle, started with a taste of the 2012 Alta Langa DOCG Contessa Rosa Rose, made of 80% Pinot Nero, 20% Chardonnay and a little bit of Barolo vintage 1967, making it a remarkable sparkling. We were off to an exciting start.

The rest of the wines were made with Nebbiolo grape, starting with a 2015 Barolo DOCG Del Comune Di Serralunga D’Alba that is credited as “the first single-village Barolo ever produced, since 1988.” Then the 2013 Barolo DOCG Fontanafredda from soil that is known for its “clayey marls alternated with layers of sand.” And the 2011 Barolo DOCG Vigna La Rosa was from “one of the most prestigious vineyards of the estate.”

Then we moved onto some older vintages beginning with a 1996 Barolo DOCG Vigna La Rosa that was my favorite in the tasting, most likely due to how well it aged – indicative of most well-made Barolo. The pricing on this one was not available.

Next up was the 2010 Barolo Riserva made with “a more modern artistic style” that “reflect the values of Fontanafredda, solid and clear since 1858.” Then we had a 2000 Barolo Riserva with a picturesque label that “takes inspiration from the French Expressionism” – and it was my second favorite wine in the tasting. An additional two years of aging is standard for the Riservas.

For photos and further comment on this tasting this is the link to my public social media post.

A note on the menu

Although the menu was whisked away by the servers so I couldn’t save it for posterity, the pairing was lovely and the photos are here. We started with some yummy appetizers that weren’t listed on the menu, one was a smoked salmon on toast and one other I recall was a bacon filled mini popover. Enjoyed these with the sparkling Rose wine. Next up was a creamy mushroom and leek risotto with Pecorino Romano cheese, a choice between a Seared Scottish Salmon and Grilled Cote de Boeuf, and finally the most flavorful Flora Chevre cheese you can imagine. The food paired well with both the new and older vintage Barolo.

About Fontanafredda

The 250-acre Fontanafredda property in Serralunga d’Alba, a cru site of Barolo, is the single largest contiguous wine estate in the Langhe and includes 247 acres of vineyards, 30 acres of native woodland and 10 acres on which the cellars and village buildings lie. Fontanafredda’s vineyards are in the municipalities of Serralunga d’Alba, Diano d’Alba, Barolo, Dogliani, Farigliano, Alba, Rodello, and Murinsengo, at altitudes between 200 – 400m.

The history of Fontanafredda is a noble one. It began in 1858 after the unification of Italy, when the country’s first king, Vittorio Emanuele II, purchased this beautiful estate in Piedmont’s Langhe region. Here he started producing wine from local varieties, Dolcetto, Barbera and Nebbiolo, which later developed into a commercial business under the direction of the King’s son, Count Mirafiori. Fontanafredda released their first Nebbiolo labeled as Barolo with the 1878 vintage. Since 2008, Fontanafredda has been owned by visionary businessman and Piedmont native, Oscar Farinetti (co-owner of Eataly), who has brought new life to one of Italy’s most heralded properties.

https://www.facebook.com/fontanafreddawines/

http://www.fontanafredda.it/site/en/home_en/

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.

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.

STARS of Cabernet 2019? Yes! We did it again!

November 22, 2019 by evebushman

How many times have we covered STARS of Cabernet? A bunch. But why do we cover the same event year after year? Because year after year there are ALWAYS new wineries to discover, new vintages from old favorites and a bunch of wine-loving friends that we’ve made over the years that we get to see again. (If you want to cut to the chase just for photos go here.)

So what was new for us this year from the incredible wine list below? Well, Ian Blackburn of WineLA.com always does a tremendous job curating wineries for us, so it’s very hard to narrow it down! I have put the wineries in bold that we were able to visit – we can’t do it all – and have noted any special wines we want you to look for:

The 2019 STARS of Cabernet Tasting List

Addendum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA, 2015
Addendum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Stagecoach Vineyard, Atlas Peak, USA, 2015
Addendum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Skellenger Lane, Rutherford, USA, 2015
Alejandro Bulgheroni, Cabernet Sauvignon, Lithology Napa Valley, Napa Valley, USA, 2015 – we also had three 2016 single vineyard wines that were outstanding. This is a winery I will be looking for.
Allegretto Wines, Trio, Allegretto Vineyard, Paso Robles, 2017
Allegretto Wines, Malbec, Cira Vineyard, Paso Robles, 2015
Allegretto Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, Allegretto Vineyard, Paso Robles, 2016
Allegretto Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, Willow Creek, Paso Robles, 2015 – and thanks to Quin Cody for taking such good care of us.
Almaviva 2016 – During our tasting they were notified that this 2016 was a Wine Spectator Top Ten Wine of the Year, and guess what? Ran out before we could taste it, betting it’s sold out now as well!
Almaviva 2017 – a Chilean blend.
AXR – TBA
Barnett Vineyards Spring Mountain Cabernet, Spring Mountain District, USA, 2017
Barnett Vineyards Rattlesnake Cabernet, Spring Mountain District, USA, 2017
BV Tapestry Red Blend, Napa Valley, USA 2016
BV Cabernet Sauvignon Georges de Latour, Rutherford, CA USA 2016
BV Sauvignon Blanc, Rutherford, Napa 2018
Bernardus, Marinus Estate, Carmel Valley, 2010
Bernardus, Marinus Estate, Carmel Valley, 2011
Bernardus, Marinus Estate, Carmel Valley, 2013
Bernardus Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, Carmel Valley, 2017
Chappellet Signature Cabernet, Napa 2017
Chappellet Mountain Cuvee, Bordeaux Blend, Napa/Sonoma 2017
Chappellet Grower Collection Chardonnay, Calesa Vineyard, Petaluma Gap, 2017
Chateau Montelena, Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, 2015; Calistoga, USA – they also served a 2005 Cab that was amazing.
Chateau Montelena, Chardonnay, 2016 Napa Valley, USA
Clark Claudon – TBA
Crown Point, Estate Selection Bordeaux Blend, Happy Canyon, USA, 2014
Crown Point, Estate Selection Bordeaux Blend, Happy Canyon, USA, 2015
Crown Point, Cabernet Sauvignon, Happy Canyon, USA, 2016
Dana Estates – VIP 6 PM ONLY
Davis Estates – TBA
Dominus Estate – VIP 6 PM ONLY
Duhig Wine, 2016 Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon Coombsville Napa Valley – this was a nice discovery for us. The Cab was slightly chilled and had a lovely mouthfeel, and the two sisters working the table were delightful.
Ehlers Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016
Ehlers Estate Cabernet Franc, 2016
Ehlers Estate Portrait (Bordeaux Blend)
Ehlers Estate 1886, 2015
Napa Cabernet, 2016
Rutherford Reserve, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016
Winston Hill, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2014
Carneros Chardonnay
Arrowood Wines, Sonoma Estates Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016
Stonestreet Estate Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, 2016
Frank Family Vineyards 2016 Rutherford Reserve, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
Freemark Abbey, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2016
Hawk & Horse Vineyards – 2014 Petit Verdot, Red Hills, Lake County – always nice to taste with Hawk & Horse.
Hertelendy Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2015
Hertelendy Vineyards Signature Mtn Blend, Napa Valley, 2015- we missed seeing Ralph Herterlendy at the event this year but his wines were still amazing without him.
Hertelendy Vineyards Chardonnay, Ritchie Vineyard, Russian River Valley, 2015
J. Bookwalter, Cabernet Sauvignon, Volume 6 Dionysus Vineyard, Columbia Valley Washington, USA 2016
J. Bookwalter, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chapter 9 Conner-Lee Vineyard, Columbia Valley Washington, USA 2016 – new winery for us, good wines.
Jack Wines – TBA
Joseph Phelps Chardonnay, Freestone Vineyards, 2017
Joseph Phelps Pinot Noir, Freestone Vineyards, 2017
Joseph Phelps Insignia, Napa Valley, 2016
Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2016 – we’re club members, so it was so cool to see them at this event!
Gelson’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Coombsville, Napa Valley
Marciano Estate – TBA
Michel Rolland – TBA
Moët Hennessey presents – all unfiltered wines, I enjoyed all the 2015 Newton Estate: Spring Mtn, Yountville, Mt. Veeder
Monteverro – TBA
Moraga White (SB) Bel Air, CA, 2017
Moraga Red (Bordeaux Blend) Bel Air, CA, 2015
Napanook – TBA
Palmaz Cabernet 2016
Palmaz Cabernet 2015
Palmaz Chardonnay “Amalia” 2017
Prime Solum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA, 2015
Prime Solum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA, 2014
Prime Solum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA, 2011
Prime Solum Rosé of Cabernet Sauvignon, Brokenrock Vineyard, Napa Valley, 2018 – I had written about this winery for Napa Valley Life Magazine so it was a treat to see them and taste all of their yummy wines!
Relic Wines – TBA
Rocca, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot Blend, “Vespera” Grigsby/Collinetta, Yountville/Coombsville, USA, 2014
Rocca, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grigsby, Yountville, USA, 2014
Rocca, Cabernet Sauvignon, Collinetta, Coombsville, USA, 2013 –so cool to find Rocca at this event! Had visited them a few years back, and just like then I loved all of their wines.
Sequoia Grove Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2016
Seven Stones Winery – TBA
ST. FRANCIS WINERY & VINEYARDS, Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County, 2016
Teachworth Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate, Diamond Mountain District, 2016
Teachworth Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon, Manzanita Hill Vineyard, Diamond Mountain District, 2012
Teachworth Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rattlesnake Ridge Vineyard, Diamond Mountain District, 2012
T. Berkley Wines, Cabernet Franc, Leaning Oak Vineyard, Los Carneros, Napa, 2016 –This may have been my favorite wine at the tasting. I love Cab Franc and the winemaker told me that Cab Franc was the reason he became a winemaker. Same winemaker for both Teachworth and T.Berkley: Taylor Berkley Boydstun.
The Debate – TBA
The Unfiltered Collection, winemaker is Jean Hoefliger formerly of Alpha Omega, all native yeast: 2015 Clark Claudon “Eternity” Cabernet Sauvignon, V. Vineyards 2015 “Audace” Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016 “The Debate” Cabernet Sauvignon.
Trujillo Cabernet Napa Valley 2016
Trujillo Gary Morisoli Single Vineyard Designate Cabernet Rutherford 2016
Trujillo Henry Brothers Single Vineyard Designate Cabernet Howell Mtn. 2016
Two Old Dogs – TBA
V. Vineyards – TBA
Yount Ridge Cellars – TBA
ZD Wines, 59% Pinot Noir 41% Chardonnay, Anniversary Reserve Cuvee Sparkling, Napa Valley AVA, USA
ZD Wines, Chardonnay, California Chardonnay, California Appellation, USA, 2017
ZD Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2016
ZD Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2010

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.

RIVIERA 31 AT SOFITEL LOS ANGELES AT BEVERLY HILLS UNVEILS ‘INDIAN SUMMER’ COCKTAIL COLLECTION

November 18, 2019 by evebushman

Los Angeles, CA – Riviera 31 at Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills has debuted a new cocktail menu inspired by the Angeleno lifestyle surrounding health and wellness.

Riviera

Director of Nightlife Aidan Demarest, who joined the Sofitel team in August 2019, has curated a limited-edition cocktail collection designed to cure the summer hangovers and embody the health-conscious City of Stars. In a town where there is no shortage of gluten-free, vegan and clean-eating spots, Demarest has introduced his first cocktail menu for the property entitled ‘Indian Summer.’

Comprising seven drinks, the menu offers both alcoholic and non-alcoholic sips perfect for a pre-holiday cleanse or Awards Season preparation. Demarest combines unique flavors with holistic ingredients that aim to wow the taste buds while leaving guests feeling refreshed. With innovative names such as “Tulum Bounceback” and “Yoga Deck,” visitors can work up a sweat on the dance floor and detox at the bar.

“My intention with this new cocktail collection was to pair our mixology experience with our vibrant eclectic world music program while keeping it clean and sexy. Using fall inspired earthly ingredients in light and fresh recipes, I created these cocktails to end the summer season and embrace fall on a health conscious note,” said Demarest.

The cocktail menu is made with fresh juice and his very own simple syrup made in house. ‘The Enlightenment’ ($20) is light and tangy using vodka, pomegranate juice, lemon and elderflower liquor topped with sparkling wine. For kombucha lovers, the menu’s reimagined Paloma ($20) will become their new go-to drink, combining blanco tequila, grapefruit juice, habanero and kombucha. For those looking for an elevated mocktail, the ‘Puff Down’ ($15) intends to detox with key ingredients like turmeric ginger syrup and lemon juice.

The West Hollywood watering hole has become a favorite among locals, visitors and celebrities looking for nonstop entertainment and handcrafted mixology. From the hotspot’s iconic Jazz Eclectic Nights every Monday to energetic Salsa Nights each Wednesday, there is constant fun and play at Riviera 31.

For more information on Riviera 31, visit https://www.esterelrestaurant.com/riviera-31

About Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills
Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills is a stunning hotel in LA offering elegant luxury accommodations and dramatic decor with an ambiance that combines see-and-be-seen excitement and the calm of an urban resort. Ideally situated on the corner of La Cienega and Beverly Boulevard, opposite the Beverly Shopping Center, this West Hollywood hotel is conveniently located near Cedar Sinai Medical Center, Rodeo Drive, Melrose Avenue, and Sunset Boulevard. Discover a unique blend of French fashion mixed with Hollywood glamour at this elegant hotel offering 295 rooms on 10 floors including 28 suites all featuring Sofitel’s luxurious feather top and state-of-the-art technology. Make the most of Sofitel Los Angeles’s numerous onsite amenities from the 2,500-square-foot gym SoFIT to the French cosmetology SoSpa and the Celebrity Hair Salon LeSalon. Have breakfast at our farm-to-table breakfast restaurant Esterel, join us for lunch or dinner at Cattle & Claw, our burgers and lobster SoCal Eatery and finish the night at Riviera 31 Lounge Bar for a night of breathtaking live music and unforgettable cocktails.

www.sofitel-los-angeles.comAbout Riviera 31
Riviera 31 at Sofitel Los Angeles in Beverly Hills is a sophisticated cocktail lounge that offers a sensual baroque take on flowers and their mystery and elegance, where the cozy ruby red and blue velvet sofas invite to lounge on under the gold Rococo ceiling. From legendary Jazz nights, Salsa Nights and DJ events, Riviera 31 hosts the best entertainment nights in town! Celebrities from Cara Delevingne to Imagine Dragons frontman Dan Reynolds and Kourtney Kardashian and Amber Heard have been spotted! Enjoy cocktails, tapas and communal plates that takes visitors on an epicurean journey through French coastal cuisine.

Abadia Retuerta and Bazaar by José Andrés Collaborating on Epicurean Events

November 2, 2019 by evebushman

LOS ANGELES, CA;—In a four-part event from November 13-16, The Bazaar by José Andrés at SLS Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills plays host to legacy Spanish winery and estate Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine. The Bazaar by José Andrés at SLS Beverly Hills has been a destination for unique culinary experiences since its launch in 2008, and now welcomes one of Spain’s most distinctive historic properties for a series of singular events. The traditional Abadia and the contemporary Bazaar represent two sides of the Spanish gastronomical coin, coming together for a series of tastings beginning on November 13 with an invite-only Sommelier Lunch; an invite-only Wine Collector’s Dinner on November 14; and culminating on November 15 and 16 with a ticketed wine pairing menu offered at The Bazaar.

A collaboration between Chef de Cuisine Holly Jivin of The Bazaar and Executive Chef Marc Segarra of Refectorio, the Michelin-starred restaurant at Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine, the ticketed ten-course tasting menu offered on November 15 & 16 will showcase signature dishes from both restaurants, paired with Spanish wines from Abadia Retuerta. Tickets, priced at $150 per person, are available via Tock.

Dishes that will be served throughout the series include Sopa Castellana, a traditional Spanish garlic-laced soup; oysters with a radish and black olive emulsion; sausage with kale and mint; and crayfish with bread and almond soup. Wine pairings will consist of several vintages of Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine Blanco de Guarda, a mature and layered white wine made with 80% sauvignon blanc grapes as well as verdejo and a small amount of godello.

Abadia Retuerta was founded in the 12^th century as the Abbey of Santa Maria de Retuerta, once home to a monastery, and located in the fertile wine region of Sardón de Duero on the left bank of the Duoro River. The original Romanesque and Gothic structures still stand alongside modern additions including sprawling vineyards, a hotel and spa, swimming pool, and Michelin-starred restaurant, making it one of Europe’s most desirable resort wine-tourism destinations.

“From the first moment I stepped foot on the historic property of Abadia Retuerta, I was enchanted by the serene beauty melding old with new,” says Ricardo Gomez, General Manager at The Bazaar. “After months of planning amongst our teams, we’re ecstatic to bring these two renowned Spanish culinary concepts, The Bazaar and Abadia Retuerta’s Refectorio, together to celebrate both our similarities and our differences in a unique set of events at SLS Beverly Hills.”

With an exclusive group of wine collectors and sommeliers gathering to experience the largest tasting ever of Spain’s iconic Abadia Retuerta wines, the winery is embarking on its most ambitious introduction to the U.S market since its founding in 1996.

For more information on the collaborative event series at The Bazaar and to purchase tickets, please visit Tock.

About SLS Hotel, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills

After making a critically acclaimed splash with its 2008 debut, thanks to excellence in hospitality, cuisine, and design, the SLS Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills continues to define modern luxury at the crossroads of Beverly Hills and Los Angeles. Following a multimillion-dollar room renovation and with robust dining options from Culinary Director Chef José Andrés, including two Michelin Guide recognized restaurants⁠—Somni (Two Michelin Stars) and The Bazaar (Michelin Plate) ⁠—as well as three-meal lobby restaurant Tres, in-room dining and the Altitude sixth-story rooftop pool deck, the hotel was recognized by Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards as the “#1 Hotel in the World” in 2019. Additionally, Ciel Spa by Pearl offers a full suite of wellness and salon services and 30,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor function spaces include a ballroom, conference rooms, and Garden Room & Terrace with retractable skylight roof. As part of The Luxury Collection’s portfolio of world renowned hotels and resorts, SLS Beverly hills is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the new name of Marriott’s travel program. Visit www.slsbeverlyhillshotel.com for more information.

About ThinkFoodGroup and José Andrés

Founded by Chef José Andrés and his partner Rob Wilder, ThinkFoodGroup is the creative team responsible for renowned dining concepts in Washington, D.C., Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Texas, the Bahamas, and most recently in Orlando and New York City. The nearly 3 dozen restaurants share a variety of culinary experiences that span from food trucks to world-class tasting menus, including two with two Michelin stars: minibar by José Andrés in Washington, D.C., and Somni at the SLS Beverly Hills.

Twice named one of Time’s “100 Most Influential People” and awarded “Outstanding Chef” and “Humanitarian of the Year” by the James Beard Foundation and recipient of the Worlds 50 Best Icon Award, José Andrés is an internationally-recognized culinary innovator, New York Times bestselling author, educator, television personality, humanitarian and chef and owner of ThinkFoodGroup. For more information, visit www.thinkfoodgroup.com.

About Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine

Dating from 1146, the Abadía Retuerta estate is nestled on 1,730 fertile acres in the heart of Spain’s Duero wine region. It is a unique destination offering a grand travel experience that combines a luxurious hotel with award-winning wines, exceptional gastronomy, an exclusive Spa and an array of unique experiences.

Imbued with the charm and lore of a by-gone age, Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine is among the most highly rated hotels in Europe, taking guests back in time while immersing them in the comforts and luxuries of today’s most savvy hospitality. Acclaimed for its award-winning single terroir wines, Abadía Retuerta winery is among the most advanced in Europe in combining ancient wine-making traditions with cutting-edge technology and sustainability.

Among the amenities and activities: 24-hour butler service, mountain biking and horseback riding on the estate, tours of the winery, helicopter rides to view the ancient landscape from the air, and falconry displays.

The Abadía Retuerta estate is less than a two-hour drive or train ride from Madrid. For further information and reservations: reservations@ledomaine.es; Tel. +34 98 368 0368.

About Refectorio by Marc Segarra

Refectorio, the abbey’s original dining hall with a vaulted Gothic ceiling and a 17th-century fresco, today is a one-Michelin-star sanctuary of haute cuisine. A biodynamic vegetable garden adopting the sustainable techniques and methods used by the abbey’s original monk inhabitants in the 12th century provides organic produce for the estate’s restaurants, including Refectorio.

Vintage Eve Circa 6/2016: Can’t Get Enough…STARS of California Part One

July 23, 2019 by evebushman

This time wine-expectant palates would sample over 100 wines from 40 wineries – and grow a knowledge of our varied California terroir – courtesy Ian Blackburn of WineLA.com in yet another “STARS” event. As you should’ve guessed, it was Stars of California, once again at The Peninsula Beverly Hills.

And, as some of these participants (listed below) were familiar to me from other tasting events in the last six months, which I have written about, this tasting I only tasted new vintages from those same sources, and a few wineries I was unfamiliar with. My likes and brief tasting notes are below under “Pour List” in italics. (And for my pals with a short attention span, of course I created a slideshow of the event.

The Pour List at Press Time:

ADOBE ROAD
Redline Cabernet Blend, Sonoma County 2012
Chardonnay, Bacigalupi Vineyard, Russian River Valley 2014
Cabernet Franc, Bavarian Lion Vineyard, Knights Valley 2014
Cabernet Sauvignon, Beckstoffer Georges the III, Napa Valley 2012

ALMA ROSA
Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2013
‘Clone 667’ Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2013
Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County 2014
Chardonnay, El Jabali Vineyard 2014

Always a pleasure to taste with winemaker Richard Sanford. His Pinot Noirs are continually well done, and along with Clos Pepe, really set the bar nice and high for Pinot in Sta. Rita Hills. This time I enjoyed the 2013 Pinot Noir and a 2014 Pinot Gris.

ANCIENT PEAKS WINERY
Sauvignon Blanc, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2014
Cabernet Sauvignon, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2014
Merlot, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2013
Renegade, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2013
Oyster Ridge, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2013
Loved the lemon and white peach in this Sauv Blanc, the Oyster Ridge Cab blend, the Renegade Syrah and the big, dry yet balanced 2013 Zin they also poured.

ARCHIUM CELLARS
Rose of Grenache 2015 – Watch Hill Vineyard, Los Alamos
“Dissident” GSM, Stolpman and Watch Hill Vineyards, Santa Barbara 2014
“Faction” Syrah, Stolpman Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley, Ballard Canyon 2014
“Haven” Grenache, Stolpman Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley, Ballard Canyon 2014

Every darn wine in this line-up made me smile. The Grenache was one I noted as an easy drinker, which translates to Drink Now.

BEEKEEPER CELLARS
Zinfandel, Madrone Spring Vineyard, Rockpile 2013
Zinfandel, Montecillo Vineyard, Sonoma Valley 2014

This is Ian’s wine, I have it every time, don’t miss it when you see it.

BERNARDUS WINERY
Pinot Noir, Pisoni Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 2013
Pinot Noir, Rosella’s Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 2013
Pinot Noir, Gary’s Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 2013
Rose of Pinot Noir SLH 2014

If you are ever in Carmel Valley, visit this winery.

BOUGETZ CELLARS
Sauvignon Blanc, Rutherford 2014
Pinot Noir, Catie’s Corner Vineyard 2014
Jovana Merlot/Cabernet Franc 2013
Cabernet Sauvignon, Amaryllis Spring Mountain District 2012

CA’ DEL GREVINO
Element Pinot Noir, Santa Maria 2012
Element Chardonnay, Santa Maria 2012
Pinot Noir, Santa Maria 2013
Riesling, Santa Maria 2013

CELLARS 33
Grenache Blanc 2015
Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2013
Pinot Noir, Gloria Vineyard 2013
Pinot Noir, Keefer Ranch 2013

COLE BAILEY
“Sesquipedalian” Cabernet Sauvignon, Cole Bailey Vineyards, Redwood Valley , Mendocino 2007
“Otters Road Trip Red, Cole Bailey Vineyards, Redwood Valley, Mendocino County NV

COQUELICOT ESTATE
Sauvignon Blanc, Coquelicot Estate Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley 2015
Riesling, , Santa Ynez Valley 2015
‘Estate Mon Amour’ Bordeaux Blend, Santa Ynez Valley 2011
‘Estate Sixer’ (94% Syrah, 6% Viognier), Santa Ynez Valley 2012

New vintages for me to try, that I thoroughly enjoyed, included the Mon Amour and Sixer. And they are all organic wines if that’s your preference.

CORDON
“L’Inox” Sauvignon Blanc, Lucas & Lewellen and Star Lane Vineyards, Happy Canyon 2015
“Les Jumeaux” Pinot Noir, Theresa Noell and John Sebastiano Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills 2014

DUTTON ESTATE
‘Karmen Isabella’ Pinot Noir, Russian River, Sonoma 2013
‘Kyndalls Reserve’ Chardonnay, Russian River, Sonoma 2013
‘Kylie’s Cuvee’ Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River, Sonoma 2015

FATHERS & DAUGHTERS CELLARS
Pinot Noir (Ella’s Reserve), Ferrington 2012
Pinot Noir (Ella’s Reserve), Ferrington 2013
Sauvignon Blanc, Ferrington 2014
Chardonnay, Ferrington 2014

FOXEN
Chenin Blanc, Ernesto Wickenden Vineyard 2014
Chardonnay, Bien Nacido Block UU 2014
Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley 2014
Pinot Noir, John Sebastiano Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills 2013

Always a favorite.

GALATEA EFFECT
Genception of Giants California Super Syrah 2011
Laminar Flow Pinot Noir 2013
Conoscenti Syrah 2011
Conoscenti Pinot Noir 2013
Conoscenti Rose’ 2013

This was a fun discovery, especially chatting with devoted CA winemaker that lives in AZ, Joel Clapick. My favorites were the Giants’ blend and the Rose.

GARDEN CREEK
Tesserae, Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

GRAEF WINE
Viognier, Casey Flat Ranch, Capay Valley 2015
Chardonnay, Bell Vineyard, Yountville, Napa County 2013
Syrah, Remembrance Vineyard, Lake County 2012

GROTH VINEYARDS & WINERY
Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley 2014
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville Napa Valley 2012
Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville Napa Valley 2012
Hillview Chardonnay, Napa Valley 2014

HAHN FAMILY
‘SLH’ Chardonnay, St. Lucia Highlands 2014
‘SLH’ Pinot Noir, St. Lucia Highlands 2014
Pinot Noir, Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard 2013
Pinot Noir, Lucienne Smith Vineyard 2013

Had the SLH (new label designation for Santa Lucia Highlands, much like Ballard Canyon’s new embossed bottle – both designed to help separate AVAs from the pack) Pinot Noir in my American Wine Cert class (yes I passed) and became an instant fan. This time I tried the Lucienne label and rejoiced in loving both that were shared. I found the Lone Oak slightly more delicate than the more traditional Smith vineyard.

HAWK AND HORSE
Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills, Lake County 2011
‘Block Three’ (95% Cab & 5% Petit Verdot), Red Hills, Lake County 2011
‘Latigo’ Cabernet Sauvignon fortified Port style Dessert Wine, Red Hills, Lake County 2011

I was introduced to Hawk and Horse when they sent me a “diamond” along with wines to sample. The marketing (diamond) caught my attention, as did the wines I was sent for review. I was happy to try the 2011 Cab and the Block Three red blend. These wines, both 2011 vintages, were just released. Love a wine that has spent a little more time in barrel and oak to suit the winemaker’s desired results.

HOYT FAMILY
Chardonnay, Santa Barbara 2014
Pinot Grigio, California 2013
Cabernet, Paso Robles 2012
Petite Sirah, Paso Robles 2012

Originally tasting Hoyt in a now defunct wine tasting room in Malibu, I was happy to see them at Ian’s event. Loved the Cab, Petite Sirah and a 2011 Tempranillo – all draped in medals.

L’AVENTURE WINERY
‘Optimus Estate’ Red Blend, Paso Robles 2013
Côte à Côte, Paso Robles 2013
Estate Cuvée, Paso Robles 2013

Always a treat when winemaker Stephan Asseo and/or L’Aventure comes out to any event. None of his wines ever disappoint my Rhône-driven palate. And this time, the Estate Cuvee made me pause; a smoky wine with rapturous balance. As I noticed every other taster at his table fail to pour out, I was so jealous to have to be working.

Read Part 2 here next week! I will begin with the rest of this list and finish with what we tasted from the Paso Robles Cab Collective.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), 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.