Eve's Wine 101

What Wine or Spirit Events Have We Missed The Most in 2020?

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A few weeks ago on this blog I wrote about many of the things we’ve been doing during our stay-at-home time with the virus, and many of the things we’ve missed. It seemed that my Facebook feed has been filled with lamentations regarding missed anniversary trips, important graduations, birthdays and other milestones. For me, and most of us in the wine and spirit industry, we rely on tastings/events/classes for continuing education, as well as fodder for our blogs. For the consumer it may be the same, for the non-profit leader the loss of these events have been devastating.

Eve as a wine judge in the first Global Wine Awards in Las Vegas. Photo credit: Ed Bushman.

In today’s article I will explore some of the events we didn’t have, and what we missed by not having them. (At press time these are the events that have either canceled for 2020 altogether, or have postponed further into 2020 with no possible way to know if their event will, indeed, actually take place.)

Wine on the Roof and Cocktails on the Roof are particularly devastating to me as I helped create both events to benefit our local middle schools and high schools in the Hart District. And while the rooftop format does allow for quite a bit of spacing, they still both attract a crowd, so not sure if the postponed dates for this year will happen.

The Santa Barbara Culinary Experience was poised to take place this past March 13. Cancelled the same week it was to occur, as many of the experiences allowed for many guests traveling from one spot to another.

The Paso Robles Cab Collective is an educational experience that is limited to some press and the public. The event focuses on the Cab and red Bordeaux varietals being grown in the area. I’ve learned a lot from past events and have come to respect the winemakers that are working very hard to get attention to their respective varietals in AVAs that have been more known for Rhônes and Zinfandel.

The Universal Whisky Experience was to have its 10th annual event this past April in Las Vegas. There are classes with distillers and brand ambassadors as well as one of the best whisky tasting events I’ve covered. Missed rubbing elbows with all of the whisky aficionados and learning from the best in the field.

Also missing a milestone year was the 5th Annual Masters of Taste that is the only event held on the field of the Pasadena Rose Bowl with top notch taste masters and beverage masters. “100% of event proceeds support Union Station Homeless Services, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit helping individuals and families rebuild their lives and end homelessness.”

Art Beyond the Glass, another cocktail event, was canceled but they were able to offer a virtual event. The live event is a special treat as dozens of bartenders dress up in themed costumes, there is live music, art displays and a bartending competition where each team tries to create the best cocktail. “Proceeds from every ABTG event are donated to a local arts-based nonprofit. To date, ABTG has raised more than $210,000 for cultural nonprofits in L.A. and across the country.”

The many Garagiste Festivals, voted best wine festivals in the U.S., were sorely missed. I enjoyed the educational seminars as well as tasting and talking with many small-producing winemakers. “The festivals are produced by Garagiste Events, a non-profit dedicated to furthering the education of future winemakers and those training for employment within the wine industry. Proceeds from the festivals support the Garagiste Festival Scholarship fund of the California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo Wine and Viticulture Department.”

Many lesser known wineries and distilleries benefit from entering their bottles in various wine and spirit competitions. As a wine judge myself I know that they not only want an expert opinion on their wine/spirits, they also use their awards in their various marketing materials. At press time I did see that at least one had taken place live with social distancing.

I’m sure there are dozens of events that aren’t on my radar, and have been equally missed, especially events at wineries that are important for bottle sales and gaining wine club members.

I will leave you with this thought: If you can afford it support it. I have hyperlinked many of the non-profits above so you can check out what they do, and maybe you can make a donation or two if you are able to. If you have favorite wineries or distilleries please consider bottles purchases to support them as well.

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.

AUSTIN HOPE NAMED THE 2018 PASO ROBLES WINE INDUSTRY PERSON OF THE YEAR

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Paso Robles, CA – On January 18 the Paso Robles wine community come together to recognize one of their own who has exemplified the spirit of Paso Robles Wine Country with outstanding leadership and vision in promoting the region. Austin Hope, President and Winemaker of Hope Family Wines will receive the 2018 Paso Robles Wine Industry Person of the Year award at the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance’s annual winter gathering.

Austin Hope (photo credit: Carpe Travel)

Austin Hope, President and Winemaker of Hope Family Wines, is a steadfast advocate for the Paso Robles American Viticultural Area. Austin has played an important role in introducing the wines of Paso Robles to a global audience while holding leadership positions within the industry leading to the region being recognized and respected as one of the great wine regions of the world.

“I am humbled to be recognized as the 2018 Wine Industry Person of the Year,” said Austin Hope, “I have had the great benefit to work with an amazing team at Hope Family Wines who share my philosophy in promoting the region with the same enthusiasm as promoting our own wine brands. This honor would not be possible without the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance team as well as the endless support from my wife and daughters.”

Austin has emerged as a visionary leader after graduating from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a degree in fruit science, today he is a third-generation California farmer and first-generation winemaker. He built and leads Hope Family Wines which includes Austin Hope, Treana, Troublemaker, Liberty School, and Quest wine brands.

Working locally, nationally, and internationally on behalf of the Paso Robles wine industry, Austin has held several important positions, including past Chairman and current Secretary of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance where as a board member he worked with 58 vintners and growers to establish the region’s 11 AVAs. Austin currently sits as a board member of the CAB Collective, a group dedicated to promoting Cabernet Sauvignon and red Bordeaux wines of Paso Robles. Austin, and his wife Celeste, support Must! Charities by hosting an annual golf tournament as well as hosting an annual Dia de Los Muertos event benefiting children’s art programs for Studios on the Park.

Austin Hope was nominated and named the 2018 Paso Robles Wine Industry Person by the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance membership which represents 450+ companies including wineries, vineyards, and associated businesses. Austin was recognized by industry colleagues at the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance’s Annual Gala on Friday, January 18 at the Park Ballroom.

The evening also featured the installation of the Alliance’s 2019 Board of Directors and the presentation of the new incoming Executive Director of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance (official announcement to follow in the coming week.)

Board of Directors Installation
The incoming Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance Board of Directors and Executive Team are as follows:

•    Jason Yeager – Chairman
•    Jason Haas – Vice Chairman, Tablas Creek Vineyard
•    Austin Hope – Secretary, Treana And Hope Family Wines
•    Sarah Kramer – Treasurer, Umpqua Bank
•    Tyler Russell – Director, Cordant|Nelle
•    Molly Scott – Director, Justin Vineyards & Winery
•    Bob Tillman – Director, Alta Colina Vineyards & Winery
•    Faith Wells – Director, Hospice du Rhone
•    Malani Anderson – Director, Turley Wine Cellars

ABOUT PASO ROBLES WINE COUNTRY ALLIANCE
The Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance represents wineries, growers, and businesses in Paso Robles Wine Country. Centrally located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, along California’s Central Coast, Paso Robles Wine Country encompasses more than 40,000 vineyard acres and 250 wineries. For more information, visit www.pasowine.com. @PasoRoblesWine, @PasoWine, #pasowine

Vintage Eve 5/2015: Cabs of Distinction = Dinner at Opolo and The Quaff Report Panel

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Dinner at Opolo Vineyards after our first day learning and tasting at the Paso Robles Cab Collective Cabs of Distinction was a special treat booked for us by the public relations company marketing the event, Parker Sanpei. Starting with an after hours tasting in their tasting room – their Zin and Sangio stood out uppermost in my mind the next day – we also took a brief tour.

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Dinner at Opolo Vineyards!

The winery now houses not one but two copper stills in which chief distiller and vineyard manager Paul Quinn has been making a freaking outstanding grappa, and just that day, had completed distilling a pear brandy. Come to find that several Paso wineries are getting their license to distill alcohol from fruit and sell from their tasting rooms. I told Paul that since Opolo is SIP certified this is a natural following, to use up every scrap…for our pleasure.

We then toured the grounds. We visited a large welcoming grassy area that is used for the 8,000-strong club member parties, the rooms for overnight guests and a main house with plenty of windows for vineyard views set up for our dinner.

Starting with a lovely fruit-forward Roussanne we dined on a spinach salad with dried cranberries, apple slices, walnuts and then buttery scallops over Parmesan risotto. The owner, Rick Quinn, who had already wowed us with his smoked pork salami and smoked pork loin as appetizers, had created a meaty Goulash with grilled artichoke which I believe they served with their reserve Zinfandel. For dessert, our only store bought item, was a light cheesecake covered in berries and compote.

If you haven’t been to Opolo and like big friendly wines paired with friendly people, don’t miss them on your next trip to Paso.

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The Quaff Report Panel Discussion

On day two of our visit we were invited back to the Paso Robles Inn Ballroom for a sommelier led seminar.

While the panelists got ready Meredith May, publisher of Tasting Panel and SOMM Journal, announced that she will soon be unveiling a chef-focused cannabis magazine coming in the fall, contact info@TheCleverRoot.com if you want to learn more. This was news!

Then it was time for the panel.

Okay, right off the bat, this is my first experience watching others – as the audience wasn’t participating – taste and comment on wine. One thing I did learn came from sommelier Mike Madrigale, the moderator, who discussed helping restaurant staffs by blind tasting wines and discussing them on their merits.

Then he asked his fellow panelists to taste and only comment on any remarkable attributes found in the wines poured out in front of them.

Like a silent movie, with no music as an accompaniment, we waited for what seemed like several minutes for ANYTHING to happen. May took the opportunity to talk about the reach, 90k readers, of the Tasting Panel. She then explained that she had offered to take over the Sommelier Journal when it was about to fold, revamped it as the Somm Journal and offered it up for free to trade – and now up to 60k are reading it.

That time spent allowed our panel of Somms and wine directors to come up with some ideas of what was in their glasses. Savory, dusty, no oak…was it a Cabernet Franc or straight Cab? Across the board they had differing opinions other than what we already knew: all are Bordeaux, the only questions is new or old world?

The MS at Giada at the Cromwell Hotel, Darius Allyn said for us, as he believed that many lay people were in he audience, that they have to look at cost and how the wines offered up to pair with their cuisine.

Madrigale commented that the first wine, once revealed was a $200ish Bordeaux, wholesale would be about $125 and then about $300 on a wine list – for a wine that needs age, he wouldn’t buy this for a restaurant. He gets better deals looking for this and others at auction.

Allyn mentioned that he is given a budget by the restaurant, and he can’t speed up time on a bottle that needs age.

Both commented that Burgundy may triple in value with time, while current Bordeaux would not, and the price of Bordeaux is somewhat inflated. Which was another reason they routinely chose not to invest money in them for their wine lists.

As they worked their way through the remaining wines, we tweeted along with them, but there was more discussion about if the blind wines were new or old world and less about things I could get into, like what their customers would think, what would they pay, if it was unexpected would a customer send it back. In conclusion: if you want us to watch while you drink you better engage us. Oh well.

Story in photos: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10205508500739325.1073741916.1455706632&type=1&l=dbb4543053

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

Vintage Eve Circa 4/2015: Cabs of Distinction Welcome Reception and Tasting

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The Paso Robles Cab Collective is a group of wineries that are focused on creating Bordeaux wines and blends in Paso Robles. This is the third year of the Cab Collective, this year called the Cabs of Distinction event, that gives trade and media a 3-day opportunity to taste and go to seminars to better our knowledge of the region’s wines – and give equal time and thought to Bordeaux varietals over the the Zins and Rhônes that Paso is famous for. (Just like Rhone Rangers and Pinot Days type events, the Cab Collective’s goal is that we will share what we’ve learned with our readers, etc.)

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Daniel Daou and Eve.

At the Paso Robles Inn Ballroom for our first seminar and tasting we experienced a few minutes of audio problems, but no one really cared because, heck, we were at a wine event so while we waited…we tasted.

Besides getting started on the tasting I did a check off in my head of what was to come: first the brief welcome, barrel and new release tasting from some of the Cab Collective member wineries, dinner (and a grappa tasting!) would be at Opolo Vineyards, a sommelier-led class in the morning, lunch (I didn’t know this yet) at Rotta Winery, maybe some wine tasting on our own (which ended up being a spirits tasting at Re:Find Distillery in Villicana Winery) being shuttled to more wine tasting and a dinner at Villa San Juliette Vineyard and then the last day at J. Lohr Vineyards having lunch, learning how to blend and then finally to Vina Robles for another lesson and tasting.

Before I could think about it any further…the audio was corrected and the reception began.

Daniel Daou, the rock star looking winemaker with microphone in hand, greeted me with, “I still like your bikini photo best…” and then picked up the mike to address the crowd. I can now see why this charming winemaker gets so many “likes” on my Facebook page. Of course the fact that he makes killer wines also has something to do with it!

Daou told the crowd, “We don’t get a bad vintage often…it’s our trademark” as “our region achieves ripeness year after year” delivering wines of “perfect balance.” Daou continued, “Several years ago…we set on a path to work together…required a lot of work, resources, money…even replanting…wineries joined in and accomplished today what you are about to taste.”

Daou then thanked the Cab Collective sponsors for their funds and resources…gave us a teaser about the seminars to come and introduced Wine Country Alliance President Jennifer Porter, who, in turn introduced Chris Taranto, Communications Director of Wine Country Alliance.

Taranto said that what he is presenting “could be presented by all of the people here today” that had come to represent the wineries. The slide show began with Zinfandel…the grape that got Paso Robles on the map. Established in the 80s, Rhone and Bordeaux varieties are the largest in the region, Taranto said, and most are family owned, small-case production. There are now over 200 wineries and 3,200 vineyard acres, 146 of that 200 have tasting rooms.

What makes Paso unique? According to Taranto Paso Robles is the hottest of the coolest regions, depending on how close to the ocean, and that calcareous soils prevail all over the area – more than any other California AVAs.

In a slide of a side view, from Morrow Bay, we saw the mountain ranges, and how the fogs can get trapped in the area; as well as wind and cooler air. Taranto said that Paso “benefits from proximity to the ocean, and proximity from the ocean.”

In 2007 59 vintners came together to set 11 separate AVAs as the land was very diverse. Approved by Nov 9, 2014 wineries could now use new labels with their set district. So “preserving Paso as a whole” was accomplished.

Porter added, “We are really friendly…non judgmental, approachable…” our manifesto includes the words, “there are no rules…this is the Place to Grow Wild.” Porter said that we would see that in the blends the winemakers are making as they are “just trying to be welcoming…taking the snobbery out of wine.”

Now, back to the tasting.

As usual I photographed all of the wines I liked in particular. But here are a few comments to the photos:

Justin Winery winemaker Scott Shirley’s barrel tasting of his latest was freaking outstanding and we hoped he could make single bottles from that one barrel instead of making what will definitely be a killer blend. No such luck unless we get his home address.

Red Soles was a new one for me, and of equal interest to some great wines is that they are distilling spirits – must learn more about that soon in another visit. Suffice it to say if you make if from grapes (or any fruit) they are allowed to sell it from a winery tasting room. Rumor is that there are twenty wineries in Paso now doing this!

The latest Suendero 2011 blend from Vina Robles blew my socks off. And their 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon was great too.

Bon Niche was new for me, we had two blends, loved both, especially the 2011 Chemin blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot.

My new fave find of the tasting, Rotta, and his SBR blend – you’ll read about more as we ended up getting over there for a full tasting over lunch in Part II of this tale running on May 22.

Halter Ranch killed me with their first 2012 Malbec, gotta get me some more of that as well as their latest Ancestor 2012 vintage.

Loved J. Lohr, and we had a two hour tasting coming up with them and Vina Robles during this same trip.

The latest Soul of a Lion blend from DAOU was very remarkable. Need more.

Michael Mooney’s latest for Chateau Margene, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, was yummy and good to drink now.

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

Vintage Eve Circa Nov 2014: Tasting 2012 Vina Robles

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I’m a fan of Vina Robles and winemaker Kevin Willenborg. We’ve met over wine more than once between the Cab Collective and at the winery in Paso Robles. They sent me their latest wines to review…and I was very pleased with:

Vina Robles Winery 1Eve’s Tasting Notes

2012 RED4

Petite Sirah, Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre

16 months in 30% new oak barrels

13.9% alcohol

Aroma

Blackberry, bark, chocolate, black pepper and a hint o’mint.

Taste

Dark fruit jam, pepper again and layers of oak.

 

2012 Cabernet Sauvignon – Estate

Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Tannat

20 months in oak barrels

13.7% alcohol

Aroma

Blueberry, raspberry, menthol, wet rose garden, grape jelly, fine suede, bark.

Taste

Dark fruit, smoke, dark chocolate coffee. Would expect to have to lay this one down, which is certainly an option, but I would drink now.

 

From Vina Robles http://www.vinarobles.com/our_wines/current_releases

2012 RED4 – $17

Description

The Power of 4 – this Paso blend is more delicious than the sum of its parts. It combines grape varieties mainly from our prestigious Huerhuero Vineyard, located in the rolling hills of Paso Robles. Here, warm afternoons and cool evening breezes influence the grapes to perfect ripeness. The grapes were picked at cooler morning temperatures and cold soaked for two days prior to fermentation. Variable pump-over techniques were implemented during progressive stages of fermentation to enhance fruit extraction and balance out the tannin structure. The wine was then aged in both small and large format French, European and American oak barrels for 16 months in order to add complexity while enhancing a soft, velvety finish. Vina Robles’ RED4 blend showcases the spice and cherry qualities of Syrah, the structure of Petite Sirah, the forward fruit of Grenache, and the rustic character of Mourvèdre. This intriguing, youthful wine is your perfect dinner companion.

Enjoy now through 2018.

Tasting Notes

  • Color: Ruby garnet
  • Aroma: Dark fruit and pomegranate with savory spice
  • Taste: Medium-bodied with rich cherry fruit, sweet chalky tannins and hints of cocoa on the finish

2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate – $24

Description

The fruit for our 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon was selected from three of our estate vineyards in Paso Robles. It was handpicked and sorted in the early morning to ensure quality and uniformity of ripeness. Afterwards, the fruit was destemmed and gently crushed into temperature controlled stainless steel tanks. Pump-overs took place regularly to enhance color and help extract tannins from the skin. After pressing, the wine was racked into barrels to complete malolactic fermentation. While the majority of wine was aged in French oak, we also used some American and Hungarian oak barrels for added nuances and complexity. After 8 months of aging and extensive blending trials, some Petit Verdot was added to enhance the wine’s structure and Tannat to add fleshiness. The final blend was then aged for an additional 12 months in barrels to fully integrate before bottling.

Enjoy now through 2022.

Tasting Notes

  • Color: Garnet
  • Aroma: Dark currants with hints of fine tobacco and sandalwood
  • Taste: Medium-bodied; rich dark fruit; complex with a structured, creamy finish

Soar, Sip & Savor: Top Wine Country Experiences in Paso Robles

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Paso Robles CAB Collective offers top flight tasting experiences

Visitors to the region can expect award-winning wines and memorable adventures (Appointments are recommended for these activities, offered daily.)

August 2017 (Paso Robles, Calif.) – Spend a day soaring over vineyards and exploring underground caves before breaking wine pairing rules while dining on farm-to-table fare. When visiting members of the Paso Robles CAB Collective (PRCC), guests can expect sensational experiences that accompany the highly acclaimed wines.

920640_169141963250580_1920631286_o“The Paso Robles wine region is constantly innovating, and one of the ways our members do so is to make guests a priority and offer them encounters that are memorable,” says PRCC President and Ancient Peaks Winery co-owner Doug Filipponi.

For the thrill seeker, Ancient Peaks Winery has created Margarita Adventures, which offers zipline tours over historic Santa Margarita Ranch. Guests can soar along six distinct ziplines, starting with two epic rides over Cabernet Sauvignon vines on the 2,800-foot Double Barrel tandem zipline and the 1,300-foot Renegade zipline. Afterward, visitors can relax in the winery’s tasting room and sample Ancient Peaks’ red Bordeaux varietals, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Oyster Ridge, a Bordeaux-style blend.

Guests can balance soaring over the vines with exploring underground caves at Eberle Winery. Built as a place to age the wines, the 16,000 square feet caves include the 100-seat Wild Boar Room, and can be visited during daily tours. The winery hosts their monthly Guest Chef Dinner Series and special events in the caves, which serve as a romantic and unique backdrop. Founder Gary Eberle, known as the “Godfather of Paso Robles wine,” was one of the first to plant Cabernet Sauvignon in the region, offering his first vintage in 1979. Guests can expect to enjoy current vintages of the same varietal during their tour.

At Allegretto Vineyards & Wines, the focus is on food and wine pairing, but not in the traditional manner that experienced oenophiles come to expect. Each wine is poured in its own glass to honor its unique, elegant and balanced flavor profile, with guests encouraged to set their own pace of enjoyment. Here the emphasis is put on flavor and teaching guests the technique of “flavor balancing.” Educating guests to understand why they like certain wines and then balancing them with food allows for unconventional pairings, such as the Allegretto’s Cabernet Sauvignon with Grilled Halibut. The theory Allegretto embraces is to pair the wine with the diner, not the dinner.

Once visitors have learned how to pair wine with food, a visit to  JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery is a must. Guests are encouraged to browse the herbs, strawberries, squash, lettuce and edible flowers that renowned Executive Chef Will Torres might pick for the featured dish that evening. These farm fresh ingredients are designed to pair with JUSTIN’s Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and signature ISOSCELES blend. The winery also offers daily production and vineyard tours that include access to the Founder’s vineyard, barrel chai and ISOSCELES library.

A day spent visiting the wineries of the Paso Robles CAB Collective offers an unlimited variety of encounters paired with the enjoyment of top caliber wines. Members are committed to creating experiences that are as memorable as each of the wines.

Sponsors of the Paso Robles CAB Collective are: Smurfit Kappa, The Tasting Panel Magazine, The Somm Journal, Seguin Moreau, Fiji Water, Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance, The Bottle Meister, Martinez Farming, Travel Paso Robles Alliance, Encore Glass, Umpqua Bank, Nomacorc, Heritage Oaks Bank, Cork Supply, Crop Production Services, Farm Credit West, Lafitte Cork & Capsule, TricorBraun, Moss-Adams, Peltier Glassworks, Portocork, Longcrier & Associates, Glenn Burdette, The Blueprinter, Vineyard Professional Services, and Breakaway Tours and Event Planning.

The 28 distinguished wineries of the Paso Robles CAB Collective are: Adelaida Vineyards & Winery, Allegretto Vineyards & Wines, Ancient Peaks Winery, Brecon Estate, Calcareous Vineyard, Cass Vineyard & Winery, Castoro Cellars, Chateau Margene, Clos Solène, DAOU Vineyards & Winery, Eberle Winery, Halter Ranch Vineyard, Hoyt Family Vineyards, J. Lohr Vineyard & Wines, JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, Lions Peak Vineyards, Niner Wine Estates, Opolo Vineyards, Parrish Family Vineyard, Pomar Junction Vineyard & Winery, RN Estate Vineyard & Winery, Robert Hall Winery, Rotta Winery, San Antonio Winery, Sextant Wines, The Farm Winery, Treana Winery and Vina Robles Vineyards & Winery.

ABOUT THE PASO ROBLES CAB COLLECTIVE

Formed in 2012, the Paso Robles CAB (Cabernet and Bordeaux) Collective (PRCC) is an independent collaborative effort of leading Paso Robles growers and producers of Cabernet and red Bordeaux varietals specific to the Paso Robles AVA in California. The PRCC strives to promote to trade, media and consumers the full potential of the Paso Robles region in producing superior quality, classic and age-worthy Cabernet and red Bordeaux varietals that compete on a global stage. For more information, please visit www.pasoroblescab.com.

Family Roots Run Deep in the Paso Robles CAB Collective

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Paso Robles, Calif. – The Paso Robles CAB Collective celebrates the family roots that run through member wineries. In many cases, multiple generations work together to create exceptional, age-worthy Bordealais wines that are highly coveted. It is this family commitment to winemaking and grape growing, and to the continued stewardship of the appellation, that has contributed to the growing success of Cabernet Sauvignon and red Bordeaux varietals and blends from Paso Robles.

Cab Collective 2013 Seminar-wine-line-up (Eve Bushman photo.)

DAOU Vineyards & Winery

One of the founding members of the CAB Collective is Daniel Daou who, along with his brother, Georges, connected to their experience playing in their grandfather’s ancient olive groves in Lebanon and eventually began their winemaking journey. After immigrating to France, the brothers became passionate about the wine country lifestyle. After starting their careers in technology, the Daous returned to their agricultural roots, planting vines on Daou Mountain in the Adelaida District of Paso Robles. Ten years after founding DAOU Vineyards & Winery, the business continues to be a family operation, with daughter Lizzy joining the winery as assistant winemaker after graduating from the Wine & Viticulture program at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and daughters Anna and Katherine involved in winery hospitality and trade relations. “Nothing makes me happier than working alongside my children,” says Daniel Daou, “the future of DAOU will someday be squarely in their hands.

Lohr Vineyards & Wines

Lohr Vineyards & Wines celebrates 43 years of family winemaking and grape growing in Paso Robles and the Central Coast. Respected internationally, the Lohr family’s success is attributable to founder Jerry Lohr’s vision and the longevity of key personnel who collectively craft iconic wines from 3,700 acres of sustainably farmed estate vineyards. The second generation, including CEO Steve Lohr, Trade and Brand Advocate Cynthia Lohr, and Director of Education Lawrence Lohr, work alongside Jerry to relentlessly champion Paso Robles’ promise. “Our father approaches J. Lohr with a farmer’s acumen and an engineer’s precision, drawing from his South Dakota roots and his engineering education,” shares Cynthia Lohr. “His wisdom guides the collaboration between our vineyard, winemaking and production teams each vintage.”

Parrish Family Vineyard

Located in Paso Robles’ Adelaida District, Parrish Family Vineyard has a grape growing tradition that dates back to 1925. Parrish Family Vineyard is led by the esteemed winemaker and luminary in trellis technology, David Parrish. Today, his wife, daughter and son-in-law are all involved in the winery making it a truly family-run business. “My learning really started at a young age with my dad. He taught me about responsibility and working hard – cleaning the horse stalls, pulling weeds and eventually working summers in the vineyard,” shares Cecily Parrish Ray of growing up in the wine world. She credits this work to understanding the commitment, determination and passion required of owning and operating a business, recognizing that it takes hard work as well as a positive outlook to find success in the wine world.

Riboli Family Wine Estates

For the Ribolis, the family legacy of winemaking began 100 years ago when San Antonio Winery was founded. To this day, rich history and the importance of family is the strong foundation the business is built on. “Family has always been the most important thing to us,” shares Anthony Riboli, fourth generation winemaker. “We grew up watching our parents and grandparents work hard to build the business, while always putting family first. This value has been instilled in me, and I strive to pass it on through my family.” Riboli Family Wine Estates continues a proud heritage of winemaking that spans four generations. The commitment to producing award-winning wines includes investing in some of California’s most prestigious regions, including the El Pomar District and Creston AVAs of Paso Robles.

Chateau Margene

First generation grape grower and winemaker, Michael Mooney, and wife Margene are fulfilling their dreams of owning and operating a family winery and vineyard in the area where his forefathers settled. Their family history in San Luis Obispo County dates back five generations – Mooney’s great, great grandfather, Victor Linares, received land in the area as part of a Mexican land grant in 1842. Today, Mooney’s sons have followed him into the wine business. “Our oldest son Chris worked for the family winery for 10 years and our younger son Jon is now an integral part of the operations at the estate and winery,” shares Mooney. “Margene is the CFO and her brother Bill manages the horticultural side. Bill’s son also works in the vineyard and tasting room. We’re proud to say that we are a family-run business, in every sense of the word.”

ABOUT THE PASO ROBLES CAB COLLECTIVE

Formed in 2012, the Paso Robles CAB Collective is an independent, collaborative effort of leading Paso Robles growers and producers of Cabernet and red Bordeaux varietals specific to the Paso Robles AVA in California. It promotes to trade, media and consumers the full potential of the Paso Robles region in producing superior quality, classic and age-worthy Cabernet and red Bordeaux varietals that compete on a global stage. For more information, please visit www.pasoroblescab.com.

Paso Robles BlendFest Set for January

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BLENDFEST ON THE COAST SHOWCASES PASO ROBLES WINES IN CAMBRIA AND SAN SIMEON
Event Weekend Features Multiple Opportunities to Experience the Wines of Paso Robles, Tickets Now On Sale

14907074_10154652648709476_2560508554543995596_nPaso Robles, CA – The Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance (PRWCA), in conjunction with Visit Cambria, Visit San Simeon, and the California Highway 1 Discovery Route announce the return of BlendFest on the Coast. Over the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday weekend, the Third Annual BlendFest on the Coast will showcase the wines of 32 Paso Robles wineries at a new location, The Cambria Pines Lodge. This limited audience event has been in high demand the previous two years, so wine enthusiasts are encouraged to book their accommodations and tickets early to avoid missing out. Ticket information can be found here – www.pasowine.com/events/blend-fest-tickets.php.

On Saturday, January 14, BlendFest features two sessions, including an Afternoon Tasting (1 – 3 p.m.) and a Sunset Tasting (4:30 – 6:30 p.m.). The afternoon tasting, at $45, will include tasting from 32 different wineries pouring more than 90 wines and accompanied by cheeses that pair well with wine. The Sunset Tasting, at $65, features the same wineries sharing their best blended wines along with savory bites from The Pairing Knife. A complete list of ticket levels are detailed on – www.pasowine.com/events/blend-fest-tickets.php.

Attendees staying at San Simeon and Cambria hotel properties will receive a VIP entry. Each guest can access the tasting 30 minutes early by presenting their room key at the time of entry. More than 40 properties are available for guests to book reservations directly. Participating hotels can be found here – www.pasowine.com/events/blend-fest-lodging.php. With the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday weekend, people are encouraged to book early to guarantee their VIP status.

The BlendFest weekend kicks off on Friday, January 13 with an intimate winemaker dinner at Robin’s in Cambria. This specially paired dinner will feature wines from multiple wineries along with Robin’s signature world cuisine. The long weekend will also highlight a memorable BlendFest brunch menu, paired with Paso Robles wines. There are no tickets for brunch, but reservations are encouraged. More detail and links are coming soon to www.pasowine.com

BlendFest on the Coast concludes Sunday, January 15, with two live blending sessions. Wine enthusiasts can participate in two different, concurrently running sessions. Winemakers from the Paso Robles CAB Collective will blend Bordeaux varieties in one session, and winemakers with the Paso Robles Rhône Rangers will blend Rhône varieties in the other session. Seminars take place at the Cavalier Oceanfront Resort at 10 a.m. Seating is limited, tickets are $40 per person and includes a barbecue lunch immediately following the seminars. Tickets for both events can be purchased at www.pasowine.com/events/blend-fest-tickets.php. The Cavalier Oceanfront Resort will also play host to an artist guided painting session, as part of Cambria’s Stewardship Travel Program. The subject is the Piedras Blancas Light Station and a docent will be in attendance to provide education on this iconic landmark to our majestic coast. More information is coming soon to www.pasowine.com.

ABOUT PASO ROBLES WINE COUNTRY ALLIANCE
The Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance represents wineries, growers and businesses in Paso Robles Wine Country. Centrally located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, along California’s Central Coast, Paso Robles Wine Country is California’s third largest wine region. It encompasses more than 41,000 vineyard acres and 200 wineries. For more information, visit www.pasowine.com. Social – @PasoRoblesWine, #PasoWine, #PasoBlendFest

Recent Estate Releases from Vina Robles in Paso Robles

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Vina Robles in Paso Robles, has a nice ring to it doesn’t it? It certainly does to me as I was wowed with winemaker Kevin Willenborg the first time I met with him and tasted his wines at the Cab Collective in 2013, again in 2014, 2015, 2016…the wines are that good. So today I share the latest releases:

vina-robles-2016-releases2015 Estate Sauvignon Blanc (From website)

We source our Sauvignon Blanc fruit from a small lot on our Jardine Vineyard…was harvested in early September. The fruit was picked and delivered to the winery in the cool morning hours to minimize degradation. The membrane press we use to process the fruit leaves a very low level of solids in the resulting juice and therefore preserves more of the varietal characteristics and acidity in the finished wine. The wine was cold fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks to retain the aromatics of the variety…$16 Read more.

Eve’s Tasting Notes: Ripe mouth-watering peach, fruit cocktail, sweet pineapple, dried mango and apricot on the nose. On the mouth I noted that same fruit cocktail and lush tropical fruit, with a nice minimal acidity that didn’t take over and overwhelm the palate, hints of gravel, followed by a balanced finish. Well done. 94 Eve pts.

2013 RED4 (From website)

The Power of 4 – …combines grape varieties mainly from our prestigious Huerhuero Vineyard, located in the rolling hills of Paso Robles…Variable pump-over techniques were implemented during progressive stages of fermentation to enhance fruit extraction and balance out the tannin structure. The wine was then aged in both small and large format French, Eastern European and American oak barrels for 16 months in order to add complexity while enhancing a soft, velvety finish. Vina Robles’ RED4 blend showcases the structure of Petite Sirah, the spice and cherry qualities of Syrah, the forward fruit of Grenache, and the rustic character of Mourvèdre…$17 Read more.

Eve’s Tasting Notes: Bountiful aromas of blackberry, blueberry, plums, toasted oak and Raisinette candy! The sweetness I found on the nose wasn’t in the glass though (which is a personal preference of mine, that the nose and the taste aren’t completely identical, as it makes a taster pay attention in my opinion) but instead the taste was all black fruit, black olive, spicy, big, dark and tannic yet very well balanced. 91 Eve pts.

2014 Cabernet Sauvignon – Estate (From website)

The fruit for our 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon was selected from two of our estate vineyards in Paso Robles –Huerhuero and Creston Valley…Both of these vineyards produce Cabernet Sauvignon with an overall balance of expressive flavors and structure. All the grapes were handpicked and sorted in the early morning to ensure quality and uniformity of ripeness. Afterwards, the fruit was destemmed and gently crushed into temperature controlled stainless steel tanks. Pumpovers took place regularly to enhance color and help extract tannins from the skin. After pressing, the wine was racked into barrels to complete malolactic fermentation. While the majority of wine was aged in French oak, we also used some American and Hungarian oak barrels for added nuances and complexity. After 8 months of aging and extensive blending trials, some Petit Verdot was added to enhance the wine’s structure…$26 Read more.

Eve’s Tasting Notes: Blue to black fruit, fig, green peppercorn, cigar and vanilla on the nose was followed in the mouth with rich layers of dark fruit, stewed meat, spice, pepper and firm tannins. Chewy, big and good to go. 92 Eve pts.

About Vina Robles Winemaker Kevin Willenborg (From website)

Kevin is known for his great attention to detail and for working with the vines so that they express the true potential of the grape. Together with our vineyard team, he employs sustainable techniques to achieve the highest quality possible. Kevin explains: “Each wine has its own life. That life begins with the planting and development of the vines. It is then transferred from the earth through the vine as the grapes are harvested, crushed, fermented into wine and eventually bottled. The role of the winemaker is to respectfully steward this life with care and attention to detail.”

Kevin’s goal is to grow wines that completely translate the Paso Robles terroir into the bottle and let the true fruit qualities shine through in the wine. For this reason, he uses both subtle and discrete traditional as well as modern winemaking methods, in order to enhance the full expression of the grape. Furthermore, barrels are carefully selected from cooperages that are known for subtlety, and only low and medium toast levels are employed.

http://www.vinarobles.com/

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