Eve's Wine 101

Discovering the White Wine Winery Acquiesce, a Lodi Treasure

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In planning a recent Napa trip one of my friends suggested we spend a day in Lodi. The last time I visited Lodi was virtually, when several winemakers came to LA to present a seminar and tasting. It was so long ago, possibly ten years, that all I recall was tasting old vine Zinfandels, a wine the area was known for.

We visited four wineries that day. All had at least one or more wines that I enjoyed from whites to old vine Zinfandels. One winery stood out. First because they only make white Rhone varietals (some which were new to me) and one rose, but as I tasted through their lineup, and made my notations, it turned out that every single wine I tried I wanted to buy.

Fast forward to planning this trip. I went to the LA Wine Writers group on Facebook and asked my associates who I should visit. Then I reached out to Lodi.com to help me plan the trip. As I only had one day I wanted to focus on the wines alone, there would be no time for winery or vineyard tours. We also invited Steve and Vashti Roebuck (wine bloggers, collectors and admins of the popular Wine in the Glass Facebook group) to join us.

Acquiesce Winery

This is an excerpt from my upcoming article in SCV Elite Magazine, “The first on my list to try was a winery recommended to me by more than one wine loving pal: Acquiesce Winery. We were awestruck by all of the gorgeous white wines, and one Rose, during our “Elevated Tasting Experience” there. Many are award winners from respected competitions: 2020 Ingenue, 2021 Grenache Rose, 2020 Bourboulenc, 2020 Clairette Blanche, 2021 Picpoul Blanc, 2021 Viognier, 2020 and 2021 Grenache Blanc. Don’t miss these Chateauneuf du Pape inspired Rhônes by winemaker Susan Tipton.” Here is the link to the social media post that also includes notes and photos from Acquiesce and other Lodi wineries we visited that day.

To expand, the Elevated Tasting Experience, seen here in the photo by Steve Roebuck, was a great pairing! (Not every food and wine pairing is spot on but theirs was.) And for Steve Roebuck and me, as it’s our practice to sample wines without food, it was difficult not to sample those small bites. But the wine…oh how I wish I could have lingered there all day. Also of note: most of these wines were less than $30 each.

The Pairing

We began with the 2021 Picpoul Blanc paired with Italian salsa, Spenker Goat Ricotta Tartine. Next was their 2021 Grenache Rose alongside Radish Tartine with Butter (butter is always a good choice!) and Cracked Pepper. Our third was the 2020 Grenache Blanc with Asparagus (a hard vegetable to pair), Ricotta, Preserved Lemons on Pumpernickel and then our final pairing with the 2020 Clairette Blanche with a Dijon Tarragon Tuna, Tomato, Tartine on Rye. All pretty simple and simply delish. (Note: this was their April Pairing Menu, titled “We Love Tartines” and their May pairing was geared toward the recent Cinco de Mayo holiday. So know that you will most likely have a different menu when you visit – don’t forget to make reservations – but I would make a bet that it would be just as yum-worthy. And when I last checked their website for the price it was only $20!)

Tasting Notes Courtesy Steve Roebuck:

2021 Picpoul Blanc

Score: 92 Points

Location: Lodi, California

Blend: 100% Picpoul Blanc

Wafting from my glass was an elegant bouquet of fresh cut apples, pears, lemon curd, crushed seashells, wet river rocks and a touch of lemon grass. The wine had nice acidity with a crisp palate giving way to hints of green apple, pears, melon, citrus oil, lemon grass, crushed minerals, and a soft note of dill on the finish with a splash of lemon. The wine is beautifully balanced with fresh orchard fruits and crisp minerals that seamlessly intertwine together. 

2021 Grenache Rose

Score: 92 Points

Location: Lodi, California

Blend: 100% Grenache Noir

This light salmon colored wine had a lovely bouquet of strawberries, melon, raspberries, Jolly Roger candy and dried hay bale. The wine had a nice level of acidity that brought balance to a palate painted with strawberries, watermelon, cherry, lemon zest and crushed gravel. The wine was refreshingly crisp with a beautiful layering of fruits and bright terroir notes. This wine is reminiscent of a French Provence rose wine; thus, an elegant and sophisticated style. 

2020 Grenache Blanc

Score:  93 Points

Location: Lodi, California

Blend:  100% Grenache Blanc

The wine had an expressive bouquet of cut apples, white peach, cut almonds, wet river rocks, chalky minerals and a note of marzipan. The wine is full bodied with a nice level of acidity, giving way to hints of green apple, white peach, wet slate, chalky minerals and a finish with softly brined apricots. This vivacious wine had lovely layers of fruit that harmoniously blended with the wonderful terroir notes. 

2020 Clairette Blanche

Score:  93 Points

Location:  Lodi, California

Blend: 100% Clairette Blanche

This rare beauty had an eloquent bouquet of poached pears, apricots, white tea, ginger cookie, marzipan, dried herbs, grapefruit and soft hints of yellow beeswax.  The wine is full-bodied with bright acidity that gives way to a palate painted with mixed orchard fruits, crisp minerals, light spice, fresh herbs and a touch of white fig on the finish. There is beauty here with a tapestry of fruit, exotic spice, and lovely terroir notes. 

2020 Ingenue

Score: 94 Points

Location: Lodi, California

Blend: 100% Ingenue

The wine had a floral bouquet of white flowers, poached pears, apple pie crust, kiwi, orange blossoms, cut almonds, dried herbs, lemon and crushed minerals. The wine was medium-bodied with lovely acidity that brightened the palate with hints of fresh apple, honeydew melon, vanilla, soft citrus oil, crushed gravel and a drop of honey on the finish. The wine is complex with beautiful layers of fruit and earth that harmonize wonderfully together. 

2020 Bourboulenc

Score: 91 Points

Location: Lodi, California

Blend: 100% Bourboulenc

This wine had a lovely bouquet of green apples, pears, white peach, lemon grass, chamomile tea and a splash of brine. The wine had nice acidity that gave way to hints of white peach, sliced apple, lime, beeswax, and white pepper. The wine is refreshing and crisp on the palate with soft notes of spice and orchard fruits. 

2021 Viognier

Score: 95 Points

Location: Lodi, California

Blend: 100% Viognier

The wine had an alluring bouquet of white flowers, lavender, jasmine, pears, peaches, honeysuckle, white pepper, crushed stone and a touch of pineapple. The wine is medium ++ in body with a beautiful level of acidity that gives way to hints of tropical and orchard fruits, honeysuckle, exotic spice, soft brine, river rocks, and a kiss of citrus. The wine is complex with harmonizing layers of fruit and earth that play beautifully together. The wine is reminiscent of a French Rhone, as it is showing in an old-world style. 

More

The winemaker and owner, Susan Tipton, led our tasting. She told us that they started ten years ago, after she fell in love with white Chateauneuf du Pape wines. Her vineyards are all estate-owned and are dedicated to white wine grapes alone. None are oaked. The area has a Mediterranean climate, warm days, cool nights and a Delta breeze.

We purchased a case of wine each, the Roebucks and us, and I’ve since been looking over the club membership: six bottles delivered twice a year, in April and October, 20% off any purchases, complimentary tastings at the winery and invitations to release parties and pick up events.

Read this to see how well their wines did at the recent San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. (Short answer: They won four Best of Class Awards – and over 5,800 wines were judged.)

From the Winery

Do you love white wines? Located in the Lodi Appellation we offer estate grown, award-winning premium white and rosé wines lovingly created in small batches. We carefully craft these unique wines: Grenache Blanc, Picpoul Blanc, Roussanne, Viognier, Clairette Blanche, Bourboulenc, Belle Blanc and Ingénue (white blends) and a Grenache Rosé. Join us by appointment, Thursday – Sunday 11-5 for our Elevated Tasting Experience

Elevated Tasting Experience reservations à https://www.exploretock.com/acquiescewinery

Homepage
https://www.facebook.com/AcquiesceWinery
https://www.instagram.com/acquiescewinery/

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.

Perlises Pick: J DUSI WINERY

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A visit to Paso Robles is never complete for us without a visit to J Dusi Winery. Admittedly, it’s personal.

We first met Janell Dusi in the mid-2000s at a roadshow tasting for Paso Robles wineries held at a hotel in Santa Monica. At that time, she was pouring her first commercial vintage of Zinfandel made from the family’s historic Dante Dusi Vineyard off the west side of Highway 101. Planted by Janell’s great-grandparents in 1945, the amazing fruit had been traditionally sold to other wineries who were proud to designate the vineyard on their label. But Janell took the family business to the next level by making and bottling the wine under her J Dusi brand.

Since then, we’ve visited Janell many times, initially at the family home on the vineyard property and more recently at the winery/tasting room on Highway 46 West. Whether they know it or not, Janell and her family have become our Paso family.

Janell has also grown the wine selections beyond the flagship Zinfandel and even added another brand to the mix – Paper Street.

The first thing we noticed on this trip was how much the outside tasting area had expanded, with lots of comfortable seating and umbrellas, much of it colored the signature Dusi blue.

Then, Janell greeted us and, although we forewent our usual hugs, it was with immense joy that we sat down with her to talk about the last several months and sample several of the new releases.

We started with the 2020 Pinot Grigio. We found this to be super bright and fresh. Its low alcohol makes this a true summer wine, although we drink a lot of this all year long. It is not just popular with us, as Janell’s customers love it and buy it by the case. One of them even referred to it as “Dusi Water”, a term a stickler might find offensive, but not Janell. Hey, whatever keeps the customer happy, right? [Just a thought from us – much like in our neck of the woods, Agua Dulce means Sweet Water in Spanish, maybe she should rename it – not Acqua Dolce – but Acqua Dusi. What do you think, Janell?]

Second to be tasted but always first in our hearts was the Dante Dusi Zinfandel. This was the 2019 vintage and we noted that it was fruity and spicy [specifically with pumpkin bread spices] with a nice long finish. Classic Dusi Zin.

The next two wines were from the 2017 vintage. The Escandalosa is a blend of – not Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre – but Zinfandel, Syrah and Mourvedre. We’re not sure if the “scandal” is the unusual blend or what happened at the naming party that came up with it, but it had a beautiful cherry color and great spices from the Zinfandel. The other 2017 was the Caterina’s Vineyard Syrah, which was full bodied, well rounded, with notes of white pepper and a looong finish. Sadly, the 2018 version of this is the “last Syrah” from this great vineyard, although other varietals will be forthcoming.

We also tasted one of the wines from the Paper Street label – the 2017 Narrator. This is a classic GSM [40% Grenache, 40% Syrah and 20% Mourvedre] and was just perfectly balanced. The Paper Street vineyard was planted by Janell’s brother Matt and their father Mike on the West side of Paso Robles. Planted not only to Zinfandel, but also to Mourvedre, Grenache, Syrah and Clairette Blanche [among others], Janell is doing great things with this vineyard, as are other wineries in the area. The name Paper Street has a double meaning, referring both to the vineyard not having a true address and as an homage to Matt’s favorite movie, Fight Club. Ditto with the name Narrator, referring both to Mike Dusi and to the Narrator in the movie.

Janell also told us of an exciting new development involving J Dusi Wines. You may have heard of the emerging market for canned wines. My initial observations have been these tend to be lower-end wines designed for maximum quaffing. Maker Wine Company (www.makerwine.com) is taking a different approach – focusing on quality wines from smaller producers in a convenient canned package. Janell’s contribution to the brand is a blend of the Zinfandels from the Dante Dusi and Paper Street vineyards. This should really “up” the perception of what canned wine is all about.

It was wonderful to visit with Janell, but she had a winery to run. We said our goodbyes after quick tastes of the yummy 2016 Zinfandel Port and the 2018 Haute Blanc Viognier Port and headed out, knowing we would be back to J Dusi on our next trip to Paso Robles wine country.

J Dusi

www.jdusiwines.com

1401 CA 46 West

Paso Robles, CA 93446

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

Get to know Spanish PDO Montsant through “European quality Wines: taste the difference” project

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NEW YORK (PRWEB) – Located in northeastern Spain, Montsant was long considered a sub-zone of Tarragona wine region, In fact, its high-altitude steep vineyards, located between 164 and 2,296 feet above sea level, have casted it away from the rest of Tarragona, providing the area with some distinctive features, which finally allowed Montsant to be recognized as a Protected Designation of Origin on its own merits in 2001.

Shaped like a ‘C’ surrounding the prestigious Priorat district, the region gets its name from the Montsant massif (‘holy mountain’) that dominates the landscape. The first evidence of wine production dates back to Roman time but it was during the Middle Ages that production was fully established. Catholic monks continued the viticultural tradition during that epoch and by the 19th Century, wines from Montsant were receiving praise at universal exhibitions.

Red wines are most common in the region – up to 90% of total production – and are made mainly from indigenous varieties such as Garnatxa, Carignan; Macabeo, but more importantly, Garnatxa Blanca are used for the fewer white wine bottlings. All these grapes have adapted to the conditions of this PDO and have developed their own identity. The resulting wines are full-bodied reds, suitable for aging. Garnatxa Negra has a very sensual aromatic profile, of great complexity and allows for well-structured wines, whereas Carignan has very intense aromas and produces light wines with very good acidity. White wines made exclusively with Garnatxa Blanca, allow for body and structure, and finer wines.

Since 2008, the region has been carrying out a zoning study which has allowed for a better understanding of the PDO. Six different areas have been identified from analysis of parameters such as climate, landscape, soils, and the phenolic cycle. The study has resulted in the LIFE PRIORAT + MONTSANT project. Funded by the European Commission, the project aims at developing and demonstrating a model of sustainable large-scale wine production in the Priorat region, through the application of a set of methodologies for the efficient use of natural resources throughout the value chain, which can later be reproduced in other wine regions of the European Union. This fall, Montsant will be represented by Taste The Difference project enhancing European PDOs, including this promising region.

About TASTE THE DIFFERENCE PROGRAM
The program: European quality wines: taste the difference is a project financed by the European Union and managed by Unione Italiana Vini and PRODECA for the promotion of PDO and PGI European wines abroad in China and US. In order to achieve this objective, the TTD.EU program will organize wine seminars, workshops and b2b meetings both in these countries and in Spain and Italy, inviting wine professionals to join study trips to Europe. The program, realized in the span of three years (2021-2023) aims at creating awareness about European quality wines, in particular Italian and Spanish, which share a long tradition and a high standard of quality.

The beneficiaries: Unione Italiana Vini is the oldest and most commissioned Association of the Italian wine market. It represents cooperative, private and agricultural wine-companies, bottlers, consortia, associations and wine-making machines or wine cellars / laboratory manufacturers, located throughout the Italian territory. Promotora de Exportaciones Catalanas (PRODECA) is a public company established in 1986 and part of the “Ministry of Climate Action, Food and Rural Agenda of the Government of Catalonia”. It supports the agri-food sector and its companies with the knowledge, tools and experience to increase their products in Catalunya and worldwide

Bladnoch Distillery Releases New Collection of Whiskies in the US

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Bladnoch, Scotland — 204-year-old Lowland distillery, Bladnoch, announces the release of three new Single Malt Scotch Whiskies in the United States: Vinaya, 11 Year Old, and 14 Year Old. This new core range was created by Master Distiller Nick Savage for incorporation into Bladnoch’s permanent portfolio. Each expression in the Classic Collection perfectly showcases the signature Lowland style and range of flavors the historic distillery is known for—floral, spice and fruits, with a hint of chocolate.
‘Vinaya’, a Sanskrit word meaning respect and gratitude, pays homage to the original founders and the distillery’s heritage, and is a No Age Statement (NAS) whisky. It is the second NAS single malt whisky in the portfolio, following the 2018 release of Samsara. The 11 and 14 Year Olds are aged single malts that will be annual releases in the ongoing portfolio.
The Vinaya is matured in a unique combination of ex-Bourbon and ex-Sherry casks, never before released by the distillery. First-fill ex-Bourbon barrels highlight the floral notes from the distillery character along with refreshing, citrus sweetness. First-fill ex-Sherry casks then add a subtle rich body to the whisky and mouthfeel to the experience.

Presented at 46.7% ABV, it has notes of fresh apple, sweet floral grass, and hints of chocolate. The finish is light and refreshing, making it a stunning representation of Lowland style Single Malt. MSRP: $54.99

The 11 Year Old is an impeccable 100% ex-Bourbon cask matured expression that perfectly reflects traditional Lowland style Single Malt. It is smooth and refreshing with a lemon gold color. Notes of delicate floral, sweet honey, and fresh cut apples make this a truly memorable malt. MSRP: $64.99
The 14 Year Old is an elegant Lowland Single Malt matured in ex-Oloroso Sherry casks bursting with flavor. The color of a bronze sunset, it has hints of sweet spices, dried fruits and chocolate with a rich, long finish. MSRP: $109.99
“Releasing three new products simultaneously in the US market is extremely exciting. The release of Bladnoch Vinaya, 11 Year Old, and 14 Year Old offers a breadth of experiences, and it is the start of a range that not only demonstrates the quality of Bladnoch whiskies, but also the accessibility for everyone to find their perfect dram,” says Dr. Nick Savage, Bladnoch’s Master Distiller.
All releases are non-chill filtered and natural in color with water sourced from the River Bladnoch that flows alongside the distillery to ensure the richest flavor is bottled. They are available for purchase at select retailers in New York, New Jersey, Georgia, Illinois, Texas, Colorado, California, and Washington state; and the Vinaya is also available online at https://us.bladnoch.com/collections/whisky-shop. For more information, please visit www.bladnoch.com or follow Bladnoch Distillery on Instagram.
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About Bladnoch Distillery
Bladnoch Distillery was established in 1817, making it the oldest working Scotch Whisky Distillery in the Lowlands. As the southernmost distillery in Scotland, it is commonly referred to as the ‘Queen of the Lowlands.’ Hand crafted using only the finest local ingredients such as the pristine water from the River Bladnoch that flows alongside the distillery to create a rich, flavourful whisky that is best savoured. Bladnoch Single Malts are non-chill filtered to ensure the truest flavours shine through.
This legacy brand has been revived by Master Distiller Dr. Nick Savage, formerly at The Macallan, and owner David Prior, a whisky connoisseur who is the first Australian businessman to own a Scotch Whisky distillery. Bladnoch is truly passionate about the preservation of the environment and the local community’s generational involvement in the iconic distillery.

Bushman and Perlis Review 5 Newly Released 2020 Rosés

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Recently Michael Perlis and I were presented with a few new Rosé wines for review. We didn’t taste together so below you will see notes by either K&MP (Yes, Michael enlisted his wife Karen to help with the hard work) or EB. I will first share the tantalizing invitation, and below that are descriptions of the wines from the wineries followed by our own tasting notes:

Rosé season is finally upon us! We are excited to present our selection of newly released 2020 Rosés, which come in a beautiful spectrum of pink shades. While these are wonderful wines for year-round enjoyment, there’s just something special about sipping a glass of pink during the springtime, when the weather begins to feel warmer, flowers bloom and days start to lengthen.

Jean-Luc Colombo Cape Bleue Rosé 2020 (750ml/$14.99): Jean-Luc Colombo is an estate built upon innovation, passion, and dedication to winemaking. From the stony, limestone vineyards nestled in the hills above the bay of Marseille near Provence comes Cape Bleue Rosé – a wine of pure elegance and freshness with pronounced raspberry aromas over a core of red fruit, classic watermelon and peach notes. An elegant mouthfeel, fluid and round with ample length and crisp finish. K&MP: Very intense with flavors of Gala apple and Anjou pear from the Mourvedre that wrap around the smokiness of the Syrah. We paired the wine with a roasted Pork Loin marinated in a ginger scallion sesame sauce with a few red pepper flakes thrown in. The wine was a great accompaniment. This was MP’s favorite – guess he’s a cheap date.

Côté Mas Aurore Rosé Pays d’Oc IGP 2020 (750ml/$13.99): Côté Mas Aurore Rosé captures the essence of its Mediterranean region’s charm, offering a rich and smooth palate full of cherry, strawberry and floral aromas evolving toward soft candied fruit notes. The palate is rich and smooth with ripe red fruits and well-balanced acidity. Enjoy as an aperitif or pair with grilled chicken, shrimp, and goat cheese salads. EB: I’ll admit I chose this wine to review as the label design attracted me: a couple from the past – he wore an old fashioned straw hat – sitting for some wine with the vineyard in the background, all painted with pastel pinks, blue, yellow and green. The color of the wine itself, a pastel pink, coordinated perfectly. Now, to smell, I got aromas of cherry blossoms, fresh cut watermelon, lemon and lime zest, dried berries and wet stones; for the flavor there was welcoming crisp apple, juicy red fruit, and a mild to medium acidity which gave away to a nice length. We enjoyed this as recommended, as an aperitif. 50% Grenache, 30% Cinsault, 10% Syrah and 10% Vermentino. I would buy this wine.

Valdo Prosecco DOC Rosé 2020 (750ml/$15.99): One of the must-try wines from the newly approved category designation, Prosecco DOC Rosé, Marca Oro has a lovely pink hue and persistent perlage. On the nose, inviting floral notes lead to apple, pear, and small red berries. The palate is delicate, fruity, pleasantly harmonious with a long finish. This is perfect as an aperitif, and it pairs perfectly with pasta, fish, and tartare. EB: The color, of a perfectly ripe peach, and oodles of dancing bubbles definitely drew me in, including the three Prosecco lovers that shared this bottle with me. On the nose there was a wealth of raspberry, strawberry, toasted French baguette, wet river rock and white flower – all very enticing. One guest commented on the taste that the bubbly was fruit forward, as I got with more than a hint of ripe raspberry, bright strawberry, a feeling of general freshness, a nice low acidity, and that same raspberry from the nose to the taste lingered through to the finish. Pinot Noir and Glera grapes. My guests took photos of the wine in the hopes of finding it. I would also like to find this wine again.

Bertani Bertarose 2020 (750ml/$19.99): Bertarose is one of the oldest wines of the Bertani winery, and a blend of 75% Molinara and 25% Merlot grapes. Fresh aromas of pomegranate and red currants with notes of white flowers. Decisive on the palate, medium bodied with deft balance between acidity and tanginess. Excellent length. Perfect as an aperitif, it also goes well with salads, delicate-flavored pasta dishes and white meat. K&MP: Very clean nose and finish. Nice smooth mouthfeel as well. We got some citrus/lemon notes as well as pear. This wine was very refreshing yet full bodied enough to stand up to the mini-Reubens that we paired it with. They’ve been making this wine since the 1930s and they definitely know what they are doing. Very interesting blend as well as the approach of fermenting the Molinara on the skins and the Merlot off the skins. Makes for a pretty complex wine, which is not unexpected for a winery credited with creating the first commercial dry Amarone.

Planeta Sicilia DOC Rosé 2020 (750ml/$19.99): A blend of 50% Nero d’Avola and 50% Syrah, this fresh, fruit-forward rosé represents all the feelings of a Sicilian summer. The fresh aromas of strawberry make it a marvelously friendly wine, and easy to drink. Enjoy Planeta Rosé in good company, as an aperitif with tapas, raw fish, fresh salads or alone with seasonal fruit. K&MP: Light in color and nose, which makes sense as the wine is vinified like a white wine. Fragrance of Jasmine tea leaves. Seemed to bounce off the palate with its brightness. We paired this with a margarita pizza that we had added smoked salmon to and it matched perfectly. This would be great on a late summer California afternoon/evening with passed appetizers.

Find where to purchase any of these wines via Taub Family Selections:

https://www.taubfamilyselections.com/

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.

Gelson’s to Debut Four New Stellar Wine Offerings by Julien Fayard

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ENCINO, Calif./PRNewswire/ — With the Holidays around the corner, Gelson’s is uncorking four new bottlings in its exclusive branded collection of Gelson’s Wines, all produced through its ongoing collaboration with one of their winemakers, Julien Fayard who was named 2016 “Winemaker of the Year” by Wine Spectrum. The four stellar wines will be available at all 27 Gelson’s locations across the Southland.

Photo credit: Jimmy Hayes, Wine Enthusiast Magazine.

“We feel very honored to work with Julien again. He is a renowned wine maker with an outstanding reputation from his early work with Lafite Rothschild and Smith Haut Lafitte in his native France, to the last dozen years earning respect across Napa Valley,” said John Bagan, Chief Merchandising Officer for Gelson’s.   “We are constantly seeking out the best products from the best producers, and are excited that Gelson’s will continue to make superior quality wines from Julien available exclusively to thousands of our wine-loving Customers across Southern California.
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The new wines include:

  • Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Coombsville 2018

Created exclusively for Gelson’s by Julien Fayard, this splendid single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon boasts classic Bordeaux style.  It is traditionally fermented (temperature-controlled in a stainless-steel tank) and aged for 22 months in new French oak barrels. Dark ruby in color, the wine is full-bodied and complex. Enticing aromas of ripe blueberry and blackberry lead to a robust blackberry palate with hints of cedar and spices balanced by silky tannins.
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The finish is long, smooth, and delicious.

  • Reserve Cabernet Franc Oakville 2018

The grapes in this impressive single-vineyard Cabernet Franc are traditionally fermented (temperature-controlled in a stainless-steel tank) and aged for 22 months in new French oak barrels, yielding a vibrant ruby color and tempting aromas of ripe cherry and spices. In addition to plush flavors of blueberry, blackberry, sweet red cherry, and cedar, the elegantly layered palate offers full body, silky tannins, and satisfying depth.

  • Reserve Sauvignon Blanc Rutherford 2019

The grapes in this Sauvignon Blanc are whole-cluster pressed and aged in stainless-steel barrels, resulting in a wine that’s light blonde in color, boasting creamy texture and an amazing mouthfeel with brisk acidity. Accents of pear and apricot flavors flow into a refreshing, refined finish.

  • Red Cuvée Napa Valley 2018

This delectable Red Cuvée, expertly blends Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah for a wine of bold yet measured character. The grapes are traditionally fermented (temperature-controlled in a stainless-steel tank) and aged for 22 months in French oak barrels. Pleasing aromas of ripe cherry, blackberry, and subtle flint accompany a richly textured, full-bodied palate with silky tannins. Dark fruit and earthy notes define the exquisite taste.

Gelson’s debuted its first branded collection of fine wines three years ago with four Santa Barbara reds (Pinot Noir, Grenache, Syrah, Sangiovese) and one white (Chardonnay), created exclusively for Gelson’s by local winemaker and Wine Spectator Grand Award winner Doug Margerum.

About Gelson’s

Gelson’s currently operates 27 full-service specialty grocery stores in Southern California. Each Gelson’s Market features the full amenities of a traditional supermarket, with the local flavor of a neighborhood market. Their high standards – for quality, value and freshness; unsurpassed service; and attention to detail – define the ultimate grocery shopping experience. With over 65 years’ experience, Gelson’s in-house experts know Southern California’s lifestyle and are driven to find only the best foods and exclusive values for their customers. Gelson’s is particularly known for flavorful, hand-selected produce, the best and freshest cuts of meat and seafood, and Chef-prepared signature recipes. This experience is rounded out by professionally designed floral arrangements, and a convenient selection of the highest quality grocery items. Find out why Life Tastes Better Here® at https://gelsons.com.

Firestone Walker Brewing Company Releases Full-flavored, Low-calorie Hazy IPA ‘Flyjack’

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PASO ROBLES, CALIF. (PRWEB) – Firestone Walker Brewing Company, one of the nation’s most acclaimed craft breweries, has announced the release of Flyjack. An innovative low alcohol, low-calorie beer, Flyjack has all the unique characteristics of a hazy IPA with only 96 calories, five grams of carbs and 4 percent ABV.

Flyjack is packed with a big hop aroma and has a true hazy IPA flavor profile that is lush and full yet refreshingly crisp with hints of citrus. Flyjack is designed for drinkers who keep an active and healthy lifestyle, but don’t want to sacrifice flavor for fewer calories. The hazy IPA was built with big bold hops, including the new and powerful Strata hop, to deliver more aroma at lesser quantities. Flyjack uses an expressive yeast strain that heightens ester and fruit character to put body and flavor into the beer without adding calories.

Founded by brothers-in-law Adam Firestone and David Walker, Firestone Walker Brewing Company is a family-run craft brewery from the California coast, with three state-of-the-art brewery facilities in Paso Robles, Buellton and Venice that produce a wide range of beers from pale ales to vintage barrel-aged beers, and was recently named “Best American Brewery of the Decade” by Paste Magazine.

Firestone and Walker, along with their longtime brewmaster Matt Brynildson, created Flyjack amid a changing market dynamic that increasingly favors healthful choices. According to recent data from the Nielsen Company, one-quarter of beer drinkers are currently more interested in consuming alcohol beverages made with wellness in mind, so Firestone Walker Brewing Company decided to create a 96 calorie hazy IPA–one of the first of its kind–to complement its diverse portfolio.

True to the brewery’s mantra of “the pursuit of the perfect beer,” Firestone Walker Brewing Company remained patient as the ranks of lower-calorie craft beers swelled over the past 18 months. They underwent a rigorous R&D process to find the right hops that offered the best flavor, texture and fruit; the right malt selection to achieve the signature haze and mouthfeel of hazy IPAs and a yeast strain that ties it all together by accentuating flavor without adding any additional calories.

“Beer culture is expanding and is becoming more inclusive,” Brynildson said. “People care about their lifestyle, they care about what’s in their beer, and many care about calories. With Flyjack, we wanted to prove that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for calories. Flyjack is a full-flavored, easy-to-drink beer that delivers on the healthier qualities more and more people are looking for, and is a fresh choice amid an ever-changing landscape of tastes and preferences.”

“I’m confident that Flyjack is one of the best tasting, low-calorie hazy IPA’s you’ll ever have,” said Walker. “I’m really excited for everyone to try this beer.”

Flyjack is now on sale and available in draft and six-pack can formats across Firestone Walker Brewery Company’s distribution footprint, which now includes California, Texas, and the Great Lakes, Mountain, Midwest, North East and Pacific Northwest regions.

You can view the story behind making the beer with Brynildson here and on firestonebeer.com

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Firestone Walker is an innovative California beer company founded in 1996. Firestone Walker’s main brewery in Paso Robles produces a diverse portfolio ranging from iconic pale ales to vintage barrel-aged beers. The Barrelworks facility in Buellton makes eccentric wild ales, while the Propagator pilot brewhouse in Venice specializes in R&D beers and limited local offerings. Firestone Walker is also the brewery behind 805, one of the nation’s fastest-growing beers. More at FirestoneBeer.com.

Wine Transporter Xpeditr Inc. Stands on Guard of Precious Wine Collections Across North America

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TORONTO (PRWEB) – Following the destruction of precious, rare and historic wine collections valued at over $7 million during hurricane Sandy in 2012, fine wine transportation specialists, Xpeditr, launched XERT, the Xpeditr Emergency Response Team.

home-feature2As specialists in temperature-controlled wine storage, shipping and transportation across USA and Canada, Xpeditr is on a mission to protect and preserve liquid treasures. They are renown for their premium fine wine relocation services, and now their Emergency Response Team!

Wine collectors, sommeliers and wineries across North America have learned lessons from previous disasters and the millions of dollars lost in precious wine collections, many of which were to be auctioned for the benefit of charities, hospitals and non-profits, once perfectly aged. Now, with the assistance of Xpeditr, collectors are not only prepared to relocate fine wine collections to prevent losses, but also have the security that comes with the Xpeditr Wine Cellar Assessment to establish flood and hurricane readiness.

Xpeditr clients are assigned an Account Manager who handles the assessment as well as all transportation, fine wine storage and shipment needs, providing a tailored and personal approach to the entire experience. Xpeditr employees are themselves fine wine collectors who not only understand the inherent importance of controlled conditions in aging, but also appreciate the bouquet, body and finish of a perfectly aged wine.

Xpeditr Account Managers also ensure that clients have proper and adequate insurance coverage, and provide Wine Transportation Insurance for all USA and Canada wine relocation services. Wine collections ‘in transit’ are rarely covered by traditional home insurance policies. Xpeditr offers peace of mind with wine insurance coverage including temperature damage, breakage, theft, and loss. Because of their expertise, efficient services, and utmost professionalism Xpeditr is the premiere choice when wine collectors choose to relocate their liquid treasures.

If disaster does strike, Xpeditr offers emergency assistance! A call to the Emergency Response Team, and wine collectors immediately have a squad of experts ready and able to help. As demonstrated during the unfortunate events of hurricane Irma in September, Xpeditr answered the calls of Florida collectors, and sent their team south to package, transport and relocate more than 20,000 bottles of fine wine, worth up to $5 million, to safety.

More About Xpeditr Wine Transportation:
Founded in 2005 by a team of logistics experts looking for a reliable solution to the transportation of fine wines, Xpeditr Inc. offers clients a streamlined, door-to-door solution to wine relocation across USA and Canada. Xpeditr understands that when liquid treasures are at risk, the potential for financial loss is felt by all parties involved, including local and national charities, who often rely on the donations and funds raised at fine wine auctions.

Staffed with sommeliers, logistics, transportation and warehouse professionals, the Xpeditr team provides a stress free, custom tailored solution for all wine relocation needs. Xpeditr is trusted for their expertise, efficiencies and utmost professionalism, and is the premiere choice for fine wine relocation across North America.

Napa 2017 After The Fires: Acumen

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In a leap from the standard expectations in a winery tasting room, Acumen hosts seated tastings in a bright and modern wine gallery. The large original paintings frame the tasting room, each with a splash of white to mimic Napa fog, as you settle in with wine glasses, tasting notes and an invitation to become a member.

acumenThat fog is very abundant in Acumen’s vineyards, as explained to us by Marian Jansen Op De Harr, the estate Ambassador, as they are 1350 to 1600 feet up, in a remote section of Soda Canyon Road.

Marian led us through a tasting of six wines, each apparent to me were done in a lower alcohol, less bold style and more in a Bordeaux style. Our first, a 2016 Mountainside Sauvignon Blanc had little oak but great fresh fruit and body. The 2014 Mountainside Red Wine blend, predominantly of Cabernet Sauvignon followed by Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, was big and dry. Next came the 2013 Mountainside Cabernet Sauvignon, which is predominantly Cabernet fruit from the valley floor and meant to drink now.

The 2014 PEAK Sauvignon Blanc from the Stagecoach Vineyard blew my mind –great fruit, low acidity and the small amount of oak aging made this a stellar white Bordeaux style. Only 95 cases were made.

Then we sampled the 2013 PEAK Attelas Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon with 84% cab fruit was big, beautiful, perfumy and velvety which Marian said was due to the cooler climate in the vineyard.

Our last wine, the 2013 PEAK Cabernet Sauvignon tasted more of redder fruit to me at first sip but darkened in the finish.

All of these wines were their first vintages, most hovering below 13.3% alcohol – in the low end for some standards but not for Bordeaux.

Acumen is working on getting a new winery with wine tasting approved for their vineyard property in Atlas Peak. It’s been a battle and they’re in the midst of a lawsuit right now.

Winemaker Henrik Poulsen also made an unexpected appearance, settling in for a bit to sip some of his exquisite PEAK Sauvignon Blanc, and recounted some of his personal experience in the recent fires.

#NapaFire

Marian had said that the fire “nibbled at the vineyard” and estate house, but no employees lost their homes. Henrik had another story to tell: having been through the Napa fire in 2008, it had taught him well. After waiting nine days, instead of the expected two, to find out if his 12 tons of Petit Verdot grapes had smoke taint – they did. In the meantime he was already in the winery, doing pump unders instead of pump overs. Also had to wait 12 days for the road to his Malbec vineyard would open – those grapes are all okay but he did end up losing two blocks.

None of the Acumen family lost their homes. However, during the fire they were in the midst of a night harvest. There were six pickers that were in the vineyards when the fire came too close. Using their headlamps they were able to get the attention of a passing helicopter and all were rescued. Henrik was allowed to be a “volunteer firefighter” and was amazed at what he saw.

About Acumen

Our founding Acumen team of winemaker Denis Malbec and viticulturists Garrett Buckland were drawn to the mountainside vineyards of Napa Valley’s eastern slopes, which have created countless world-class wines.  It was here in the rugged Atlas Peak AVA where we set our roots in two unique vineyards with a total of 116 organically farmed acres.  The Acumen labels share a glimpse of the inspiring views from our vineyards, both of which have an Old World feel, with bucolic rolling hills and textured rows of mountainside grapevines, surrounded by chaparral and sagebrush…read more.

Acumen Wine Gallery, 1315 First Street, Napa, CA 94558

http://www.acumenwine.com/

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. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Perlises Pick: Great Wines of Italy 2017 – Part Two

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Last week Karen and I told you our top picks from the JAMESSUCKLING.COM Great Wines of Italy event.

But we did have a lot of other favorites as well…

(The comments in quotes are Mr. Suckling’s [some abbreviated] from the 200 page program, along with his point score.)

Photo courtesy James Suckling Facebook.

Photo courtesy James Suckling Facebook.

Tenute Ambrogio & Giovanni Folonari –

Tenute Ambrogio & Giovanni Folonari Cabreo Toscana Il Borgo 2013

“…A beautiful blend of sangiovese and cabernet sauvignon. 93 Pts.”

 

Tenute Ambrogio & Giovanni Folonari Tenuta di Nozzole Chianti Classico Gran Selezione La Forra 2012

“…Excellent and special selected Chianti Classico. Drink or hold. 93 Pts.”

 

Bellavista –

Bellavista Franciacorta Teatro alla Scala Brut 2011

“…Aromas of sliced apple, lemon and flint…Delicious at the end…94 Pts.”

 

Bosco Agostino –

Bosco Agostino Barbera d’Alba Superiore Volupta 2013

“A barbera with dried berry, lemon and almond aromas and flavors…90 Pts.”

 

Bosco Agostino Barolo La Serra 2012

“Lots of ripe strawberry, licorice, aniseed and rose petal on the nose…94 Pts.”

 

Brancaia –

Brancaia Toscana Il Blu 2011

“…Full body, chewy but polished tannins and a flavorful finish. This is so beautiful now to drink but will reward those who are patient. 93 Pts.”

 

Brancaia Toscana Ilatraia 2012

“Plenty of blueberry, chocolate and light toasted oak character. Smoky meat, too. Full body, chewy tannins and a flavorful finish. Needs a year or two to come together. 93 Pts.”

 

Castelli del Grevepesa –

Castelli del Grevepesa Chianti Classico Clemente VII Riserva 2013

“A density and freshness to this withoyster-shell, blueberry and dark chocolate character. Full and savory. Drink now or hold. 92 Pts.”

 

Castelli del Grevepesa Chianti Classico Clemente VII Gran Selezione 2011

“Flamboyant Chianti Classico with chocolate and berry character…Long and flavorful finish. Drink now. 92 Pts.”

 

Cordero di Montezemolo –

Cordero di Montezemolo Barolo Monfalletto 2012

“Muscular and buff for the vintage with plenty of plum, terra-cotta and dry soil aromas and flavors. Full body, flavorful finish. Drink in 2018. 94 Pts.”

 

Cordero di Montezemolo Barolo Bricco Gattera 2012

“Gorgeous aromas of rose petals, strawberries and lavender follow through to a full body and ripe fruit and tannins. Flavorful character of tangerines and dried Strawberries…93 Pts.”

 

Elio Grasso –

Elio Grasso Barolo Gavarini Chiniera 2012

“Extremely perfumed with flowers and plum. Full-bodied, deep and dense yet agile and fresh…95 Pts.”

 

Gianni Gagliardo –

Gianni Gagliardo Barolo Castelletto 2013

“Love the perfume and berry character to this one…Full to medium body, round and velvety tannins and a long and flavorful finish…93 Pts.”

 

Gianni Gagliardo Barolo Preve 2013

“Aromas of licorice, rose petals and berries. Full body, chewy tannins and lots of fruit. It’s tight and polished, and there’s so much going on. Very cool. Best ever from this vineyard…96 Pts.”

 

Orma –

Orma Toscana 2014

“Fascinating aromas of stone, wet concrete and dark fruit. Full body, firm and silky tannins and a flavorful finish. A structured and firm wine. Give it two or three years to soften. 94 Pts.”

 

Orma Passi di Orma 2015

“Very pretty aromas of currant, tobacco, and mint. Subtle. Full body, silky tannins and lots of fruit and richness. Beautiful length to this. Better in 2020. 95 Pts.”

 

Podernuovo a Palazzone –

Podernuovo a Palazzone Toscana Therra 2013

“Blueberry and currant character with hints of mint and spearmint. Medium body and a solid core of fruit and tannins. Fresh finish…92 Pts.”

 

Podernuovo a Palazzone Toscana Argirio 2013

Plenty of blackberry, spice and hints of grilled veggies. Cabernet is there! Full to medium body, silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Fresh yet rich. Mostly cabernet franc. Drink or hold. 94 Pts.”

 

Prà –

Pra Amarone della Valpolicella 2010

“This is rich and chewy with lots of black pepper and berry character…This will be even better with a few years of bottle age when it softens, but it’s so good now. 92 Pts.”

 

Tommasi –

Tommasi Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2012

“A red with dried fruits such as raisins and sultanas. Full-bodied, round and fruity. Soft, velvety tannins and a flavorful finish. Very classic style of Amarone. Drink now. 93 Pts.”

 

Tommasi Valpolicella Classico Superiore Rafael 2014

“A lovely Valpo that is delicate and spicy with a lemon-rind and blueberry character. Medium body, vibrant fruit and wonderful acidity. Flavorful. Drink now. 91 Pts.”

 

Vignamaggio –

Vignamaggio Chianti Classico Riserva di Monna Lisa Gran Selezione 2013

“A Chianti Classico with energy and density, yet this remains lively and bright with an underlining backbone of acidity. Medium body, bright fruit and a clean finish. Drink or hold. 92 Pts.”

 

Vignamaggio Cabernet Franc Toscana 2013

“This is so beautiful with a clarity of blueberry and rose petal character. Medium body, ultra-fine tannins and an elegant and refined finish. Drink now or hold. 94 Pts.”

 

MP: I was really impressed by the depth of flavors in the wines I tasted. Admittedly, my wine drinking choices have left me with a California palate, and I often have to work a little harder than I might like at appreciating the nuances of some European wines. Not so with these, and I recommend anyone who thinks they only like California wines to broaden their horizons with some of these Italian offerings.

And Karen to wrap it up: The evening felt like we were in Italy, right down to most of the winemakers and reps having Italian accents – and they were all charming to boot. That along with the great wine and food, made for a wonderful night.

Michael Perlis has been pursuing his passion for wine for more than 25 years. He has had the good fortune of having numerous mentors to show him the way, as well as a wonderful wife who encourages him and shares his interest. After a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting wineries and vineyards, and tasting as much wine as he possibly could, he had the amazing luck to meet Eve Bushman. Now, as Contributing Editor for Eve’s Wine 101, he does his best to bring as much information as possible about wine to Eve’s Wine 101 faithful readers. Michael is also Vice President of Eve Bushman Consulting (fka Eve’s Wine 101 Consulting) http://evebushmanconsulting.com/ and President of MCP Financial. Michael can be contacted at michaelthezinfan@aol.com or michael@evebushmanconsulting.com.