Eve's Wine 101

Perlises Pick – I. Brand and Family

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The San Francisco Chronicle named Morgan Twain-Peterson and Tegan Passalacqua their co-winemakers of the year for 2015. Why does this matter, you may ask? Typically, we don’t pay too much attention to these kind of awards. But since Morgan and Tegan are two of our very favorite winemakers (Morgan for Bedrock Wine Company and Tegan for Turley Wine Cellars as well as Sandlands), this award made us sit up and take notice of who the Chronicle named going forward.

Fast forward to 2018. The Chronicle named their winemaker of the year to be – Ian Brand. “Who?”, you may ask (we did). But further research resulted in us resolving to visit Ian’s winery tasting room in the Carmel Valley as soon as practical. It took us a while, but we finally made it.

Ian sources grapes from all over Monterey and San Benito Counties. You may not be familiar with many of the grapes and the vineyard sites are often historic and underrepresented in a land where Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are king and queen.

Ian actually produces wine under three labels: Le P’tit Paysan (The Little Peasant) would be considered entry level, inspired by French Village wines; La Marea (The Tide) focuses on Spanish varietals; and I. Brand, which are single vineyard, old vine bottlings. Total annual production is about 15,000 cases, with the premium I Brand label representing the lowest production.

We tasted some of the wines from the I. Brand label when we visited the tasting room in Carmel Valley Village. Note that most of these vineyards are registered with the Historic Vineyard Society (HVS), an organization near and dear to our hearts.

2021 Arneis –from the Vista Verde Vineyard in the Paicines AVA of San Benito County

Bright, Asian pear, lemon notes. Medium to full mouth feel, long fish.  Impression of very slight sweetness, distinct and structured.

2021 Pinot Gris – from the Eden Rift Vineyard in the Cienega Valley AVA of San Benito County.

Eden Rift was planted in the early 1850s by Theophile Vaché, a pioneer of the California wine industry. Light blush color, since it spent five days on its skins. Complex tannins, strawberry raspberry notes in the mouth and on the nose. Long finish.

2021 Pinot Noir – from the Enz Vineyard in the Lime Kiln Valley AVA of San Benito County. This vineyard is registered with the Historic Vineyard Society. Temperatures are warmer in this area compared to Monterey County so harvest is earlier. The soil is limestone versus the granite of Monterey County. Great fruit nose.  Stone fruit complexity, medium mouth feel, medium to long finish.

2019 Syrah, Mourvedre, Grenache – from the Chalone Vineyard in the Chalone AVA of Monterey County. This is another vineyard registered with the HVS. A perfect blend of these three grapes (56%, 32% and 12% respectively), this elegant wine had a cherry nose, red, ripe fruit and rosemary notes.  A nice long finish.

2019 Cabernet Sauvignon – from the Massa Vineyard in the Carmel Valley AVA of Monterey County

This is oldest vineyard in Carmel Valley. It was previously owned by the Durneys and is now owned by the Massas and is HVS registered. The wine was obviously still very young but was very structured and layered, with pomegranate and white pepper notes.

Ian is making outstanding wines from these great old vineyards. You should definitely take the drive to the end of Carmel Valley Village to see and taste for yourself.  It makes for a very leisurely ride.    

With the three labels, there is a variety to choose from.   The tasting room is comfy and cozy.  We enjoyed sitting outside looking at the scenery, the beautiful mountains and the surrounding areas. It only added to the overall experience.

I. Brand & Family

www.ibrandwinery.com

19 East Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley Village, CA 93924Michael 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.

Perlises Pick: Morgan Winery

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Visiting Monterey County Wine Country can present some challenges. The area is huge and getting to wineries can result in a lot of driving time. Fortunately, many wineries have established tasting rooms in and around Carmel, often several miles away from their winemaking facilities.

Morgan Winery is one of these. While the winery itself is in Salinas, in 2007 their tasting room called Taste Morgan was opened in the Crossroads Shopping Center just south of downtown Carmel and at the gateway to Carmel Valley.

The winery itself was actually founded a couple of decades earlier in 1982 by Daniel Morgan Lee and his wife Donna. Morgan is not only Daniel’s middle name but also his mother’s maiden name. Prior to founding Morgan, Dan graduated from UC Davis – he had planned on studying veterinary medicine but then discovered their wine program. After stints at Jekel Winery and Durney Vineyard, he and his former banker [now his wife] started their own label.

In 1996, they purchased property in the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA that would become the Double L Vineyard, commemorating the Double Luck of having their twin daughters. Planted primarily to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this vineyard is certified organic and is the source of the winery’s estate bottlings. As a result, our tasting focused on these varietals, which is what Monterey County has built much of its reputation on. Morgan does produce some other wines as well and we were fortunate to taste of few of those too:

2021 Sauvignon Blanc – sourced from a few vineyards in the Arroyo Seco appellation: Cedar Lane, Ranch Ten, Riverbank and Zabala. Nice peach notes with a medium to long finish and medium mouth feel. Soft and tasty. 

2021 Metallico Un-Oaked Chardonnay – a combination of Santa Lucia Highlands vineyards, including the Double L along with the Leavens and McIntyre Vineyards. Pleasant citrus nose with Meyer Lemon notes on the palate and a full mouth feel.

2021 Rosé of Grenache from Mission Ranch Vineyard, Arroyo Seco– a light nose with mixed berry and raspberry notes. Very slight hint of saltiness and a medium finish.

2020 Double L Chardonnay (Clone RR – Roger Rose) – from Morgan’s estate vineyard in the Santa Lucia Highlands. White flower and jasmine nose.  Asian pear, buttery notes. Big, ripe, creamy, full mouthfeel, long finish. Stunning example of what chardonnay can be.  

2019 Double L Chardonnay- also from the estate vineyard. Pleasant mixed citrus nose and a fitting little brother to the Double L Chardonnay (Clone RR).

2019 Twelve Clones Pinot Noir – from a few Santa Lucia Highlands vineyards: Double L, Leaven, Boekenoogen, Tondré, and Rosella’s. Light color, classic Pinot Noir.  Ripe, red berry fruit notes.  Light and delicate on palate.

2019 Tondré Pinot Noir – from the Tondré Grapefield Vineyard in the Santa Lucia Highlands. Red stone fruit notes. Big mouth feel, medium to long finish.

2019 Double L Pinot – from the Estate vineyard in the Santa Lucia Highlands. White pepper notes, a touch of smoke, firm structure, supple and subtle.

2020 Tempranillo – from the Riverbank Vineyard, Arroyo Seco. Raisin notes with a big, smooth mouth feel. Velvety and elegant.

The tasting room is roomy, comfortable and very inviting. There are options of tasting at the bar, or enjoying window seating or at a table.  Outside seating is also available. The tastings were served in individual carafes so you can enjoy at your own pace. 

Taste Morgan is definitely worth a visit next time you are in the Carmel area.  

Taste Morgan  www.morganwinery.com/Visit-Us/Taste-Morgan                                             

204 Crossroads Boulevard
Carmel, California 93923

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.

Perlises Pick Dining on the Monterey Peninsula

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The term “embarrassment of riches” is often overused, but it is hard to come up with a better descriptor of the dining options on the Monterey Peninsula. Just the Lighthouse Avenue area of Pacific Grove alone has a dozen or so choices. Here are a few that we enjoyed.

Max’s Grill is on Forest Avenue just off of Lighthouse. Chef Hisayuki “Max” Muramatsu opened Max’s almost 20 years ago with his wife Yuko, after a stint as Executive Chef of Carmel’s Anton & Michel, among other prestigious establishments. The menu reflects his classic training as well as the best that the region has to offer. We had the pleasure of being taken care of by Yuko herself on the intimate patio. From our delicious starter of Tempura Prawns to the Karen’s Garden Salad and Michael’s Caesar [Michael couldn’t pass up the anchovies] through our entrees of Petrale Sole (the catch of the day) and the Duck Our Way (confit duck leg and duck mousse ravioli), everything tasted so fresh and delicious. As well it should, as Chef Max prides himself on making pretty much everything from scratch, even the bread!

Max’s Grill                                                                                       www.maxgrill.com                                                                                                  

209 Forest Avenue, Pacific Grove California 93950

Jeninni Kitchen + Wine Bar has been a fixture on Lighthouse Avenue for about ten years, serving owner Thamin Saleh’s extensive menu of Mediterranean-inspired dishes to happy locals and tourists alike. We’d actually been planning the restaurant a visit for some time, but when we did, we discovered that it was in the process of changing hands. But not to worry. New owners, Jerry Regester and Gail Grammatico, bring their own impressive chops to the table and changes are planned only gradually. We had the pleasure of dining there while Thamin was still involved in the transition. We shared the octopus in a leek-fennel sauce. Karen had the skillet seared tuna with whipped potatoes, green beans and a chardonnay-mustard sauce while Michael couldn’t pass up the pork belly with creamy polenta and roasted grapes with saba syrup. The dishes deliciously reflected combinations of Mediterranean, French and Spanish influences. We can’t wait to revisit Jeninni and see what changes the new owners make.

Jeninni Kitchen + Wine Bar                                                                 www.jeninni.com                                                                                                   

542 Lighthouse Ave, Pacific Grove, California 93950

Wild Fish is, as the name implies, a seafood restaurant in Pacific Grove, specializing in locally sourced seafood and produce. Kelvin and Liz Jacobs initially opened the restaurant in Mendocino County in 2011 and subsequently moved it to the Monterey Peninsula. Starting with the Sweetwater oysters on the half shell from Tomales Bay, the Santa Cruz halibut with soba ramen and the bouillabaisse teeming with rock cod, squid, octopus and various shellfish, everything screamed freshness and deliciousness.

Karen thought that the bouillabaisse was the best she ever had.   The saffron rouille was amazing. The menu for the day even identified which captain and boat brought in the catch. The enthusiasm of the wait staff was evident, as they described the process of receiving the fish and processing it all by hand at the restaurant, even using the bones for broth.

Wild Fish                                                                                                                       

www.wild-fish.com                                                                                                                        

545 Lighthouse Ave, Pacific Grove CA 93950

We also found a couple of great places to grab a bite for lunch while out and about.

From Scratch Restaurant at The Barnyard Shopping Center in Carmel specializes in fresh, made-to-order breakfast and lunch entrees. As our server assured us when we were concerned about making too many substitutions, “Don’t worry. We make everything from scratch.” We actually ate here twice, enjoying the Big Sur Omelet and BLAT Sandwich the first time and the Club Sandwich and perhaps the best patty melt anywhere per Michael when we went the second time.

From Scratch Restaurant       www.fromscratchrestaurant.com                                                                                           

3626 The Barnyard, Carmel, California 93923

Finally, we found delicious food served by really nice people at C U Sushi in The Crossroads Shopping Center, also in Carmel. We enjoyed the salmon sashimi salad, gyoza, bulgogi bibimbab and the eel roll. The service was very quick and friendly and everything was made fresh.

C U Sushi                                                                       

www.thecrossroadscarmel.com/dining/cu-sushi/                                                                      

173 Crossroads Blvd, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923

The Monterey Peninsula has a wealth of excellent wineries and wonderful restaurants all within half an hour or so of each other.   The area is beautiful, peaceful and relaxing. We had a fabulous time and are looking forward to coming back to the area to explore and have new adventures.  There is something for everybody from Michelin restaurants to up and coming winemakers.

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

California Wine Country And National, State Parks Make Perfect Summer Pairing

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SAN FRANCISCO — California wine lovers don’t have to choose between visiting the Golden State’s majestic parks and touring its diverse wine regions. That’s because many of California’s national and state parks are located within or near some of the world’s most famous winegrowing areas. What could be better after a morning hike in the woods than a relaxing afternoon among the vineyards with a delicious glass of California wine?

To help with summer travel planning, Wine Institute has curated pairings of California wine regions with nearby national and state parks. With 143 AVAs (American Viticultural Areas) across the state, travelers won’t have to go out of their way to find incredible wine tasting opportunities close to their park-touring adventures. Along with inviting visitors to recharge while sipping the latest vintages, many wineries offer activities like vineyard hikes and cycling. In California wine country, it’s all about a balanced lifestyle.

To find California wineries near a park destination, and get information on summer events at wineries, visit DiscoverCaliforniaWine.com. 

Travelers can get information about visiting California’s parks, including current COVID-19 guidelines, at the National Park Service and California Department of Parks and Recreation websites. Some of the most popular parks require visitors to book ahead for day passes and/or camping during the busy summer season. Multi-day events such as the inaugural California State Parks Week June 14 to 18 offers a variety of events from which to choose.


NORTH COAST
Sonoma County & Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Ancient Coast Redwoods — the world’s tallest trees — are the main attraction at this 800-acre park and natural preserve. Located just a few miles north of the town of Guerneville, Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve lies within the Russian River Valley AVA in Sonoma County. After hiking and picnicking among the preserve’s towering trees, take time to explore the local wineries. Home to more than 90 producers, the region is famous for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The charmingly rustic town of Guerneville, with its riverfront cabins and lodges, is the perfect place to spend the night and enjoy river activities like canoeing and swimming. On June 25, the Taste of Sonoma is a showcase for Sonoma County wine and food. 


Napa Valley/Lake County & Robert Louis Stevenson State Park
This 5,000-acre park offers stunning views of Napa, Sonoma and Lake counties from the summit of Mount St. Helena, California wine country’s highest peak. Robert Louis Stevenson State Park’s location near Calistoga, at the northern end of the Napa Valley, also provides the perfect opportunity to visit the region’s wineries — world-renowned for their impressive and affordable Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. The town of Calistoga, with its famous mud baths, boutique hotels and restaurants, is an ideal home base for a visit to the park and local wineries. On July 26, Napa Valley hosts Taste of Napa, a celebration of the region’s wine, food and music. On Sept. 17, travelers can taste and bid on Lake County wines at the Lake County Wine Auction. 


SIERRA FOOTHILLS/CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
Sierra Foothills & Calaveras Big Trees State Park
Calaveras Big Trees State Park in Gold Country presents a host of natural wonders, from groves of giant sequoias to ancient volcanic formations to the Stanislaus River. The park is just north of Arnold, in the scenic Calaveras County wine region — a haven for Spanish, Italian and French varieties. Also within the larger Sierra Foothills AVA are Zinfandel specialists Amador County and El Dorado County, which produce everything from Bordeaux varieties to wines made from Rhône, German, Italian and Spanish grape varieties. Camping is popular at Big Trees, so summer reservations book up quickly. Not to worry, though; the park is less than an hour from the old mining town of Murphys, which features hotels, inns, restaurants and more than 25 winery tasting rooms along Main Street. 


Madera Wine Country & Yosemite National Park
Rock-climbing Mecca Yosemite National Park is world renowned for its soaring granite walls and cascading waterfalls. Just south of the park is Madera County, one of California’s oldest appellations. The region is known for its dessert wines and port-style wines, and there is plenty to sample along the Madera Wine Trail. Summer camping reservations at Yosemite are quickly selling out and visitors should also book ahead for day passes, but there are a variety of alternative accommodations in nearby Mariposa, from bed and breakfasts to campgrounds to cabin rentals. 


CENTRAL COAST 
Monterey Wine Country & Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles National Park in Soledad wows thousands of visitors each year with its unique volcanic landscape of monoliths, canyons, oak woodlands and towering rock spires frequented by golden eagles and California condors. Within an hour’s drive is the Cienega Valley Loop in San Benito County, as well as the River Road Wine Trail, which winds its way through the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA in Monterey County, celebrated for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Because summer temperatures at Pinnacles tend to run high — ideal for early morning hikes — the park is most popular during the cooler months. That means reservations for the Pinnacles campground are fairly easy to find for summer visits. There are also lots of lodging and tasting room options in Monterey wine country, in the quaint, storybook town of Carmel-by-the-Sea.  


Ventura/Santa Barbara Wine Country & Channel Islands National Park
The Channel Islands chain is known as “North America’s Galapagos” due to its natural beauty and wealth of rare plant and animal species. Boats to Channel Islands National Park depart from Ventura and Oxnard. From there, it’s an easy drive to the Ventura County Wine Trail, which features about a dozen wineries in a relaxed, coastal setting. In Santa Barbara wine country, the nearby Sta. Rita Hills AVA is known for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, while wineries of the Santa Ynez Valley Wine Trail excel at Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. If short on time, many of these wineries offer tasting rooms in Santa Barbara’s urban Funk Zone. The National Park Service operates primitive-yet-stunning campgrounds on each of the five Channel Islands, but if that’s too much camping, book a stay in Ventura or Santa Barbara. 


SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA 
San Diego Wine Country & Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is home to the country’s rarest pine tree, the Torrey pine, along with one of the last salt marshes and waterfowl refuges in Southern California. After exploring the reserve’s 1,500 acres of maritime chaparral and miles of beautiful beaches, pay a visit to the wineries of San Diego County. The region boasts more than 100 wineries, best known for Merlot and Chardonnay, and grows 60 different grape varieties. Torrey Pines is located within the San Diego city limits, so lodging, restaurant and other travel amenities abound.

CA Wins at NY International Wine Competition

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NYIWC Winners from CA in 2021

  • Aimee (Morgan Hill, CA)
    • Gold medal: Petite Sirah- Region lll 2017
    • Silver medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
    • Silver medal: Bollicine 2019
    • Bronze medal: Petite Sirah- Region V 2017
    • Individual award: Napa Petite Sirah Winery of the Year
  • Benson Marketing Group (Napa Valley, CA)
    • Gold medal: Vermouth di Torino
  • Blair Estate (Carmel By The Sea, CA)
    • Silver medal: Blair Estate Pinot Noir Morgantini Vineyard 2016
    • Silver medal: Blair Estate Rose of Pinot Noir 2019
    • Individual award: Arroyo Seco Rose of Pinot Noir Winery of the Year
  • Cameron Hughes Wine (San Francisco, CA)
    • Gold medal: Lot 746 Arroyo Seco Chardonnay 2019
    • Silver medal: Lot 765 Sierra Foothills Zinfandel 2018
    • Individual award: Arroyo Seco Chardonnay Wine of the Year
  • Clos de la Tech (Woodside, CA)
    • Double Gold medal: Domaine Lois Louise “Cote Sud”  2015
    • Silver medal: Domaine Valeta “Sunny Slope” 2015
    • Bronze medal: Santa Cruz Mountain Estates 2015
    • Individual award: Santa Cruz Mountains Winery of the year
  • DoublePlus Wines (St Helena, CA)
    • Gold medal: Rose 2020
    • Gold medal: Sauvignon Blanc 2020
    • Individual award: Napa Sauvignon Blanc Winery of the Year
  • E&J Gallo Winery (Modesto, CA)
    • Barefoot Hard Seltzer
      • Gold medal: Peach
      • Silver medal: Pineapple
      • Bronze medal: Cherry
    • J Vineyards
      • Gold medal: Chardonnay 2019
      • Gold medal: Pinot Noir 2018
      • Silver medal: Brut Rosé
    • La Marca
      • Gold medal: Prosecco
    • Louis M. Martini
      • Gold medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
      • Silver medal: Cabernet Sauvignon
      • Individual award: Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Wine of the Year
    • Alamos
      • Silver medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
    • Barefoot
      • Silver medal: Sangria
      • Silver medal: Pink Pinot Grigio
      • Silver medal: Merlot
      • Silver medal: Zinfandel
      • Bronze medal: Sauvignon Blanc
      • Bronze medal: Chardonnay
      • Bronze medal: White Zinfandel
      • Bronze medal: Moscato
      • Bronze medal: Pinot Grigio
      • Bronze medal: Moscato
    • Barefoot Bubbly
      • Silver medal: Brut Cuvee
      • Bronze medal: Brut Rosé
      • Bronze medal: Prosecco
    • Barefoot Fruitscato
      • Silver medal: Strawberry
      • Silver medal: Mango
      • Bronze medal: Watermelon
      • Bronze medal: Peach
      • Bronze medal: Blueberry
      • Individual award: Wines with Fruit Flavor of the Year
    • Barefoot Spritzer
      • Silver medal: Moscato Spritzer
      • Bronze medal: Summer Red
    • Black Box
      • Silver medal: Chardonnay 2019
      • Silver medal: Malbec 2018
      • Silver medal: Pinot Grigio 2019
      • Silver medal: Shiraz 2018
      • Bronze medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
      • Bronze medal: Sauvignon Blanc 2020
      • Individual award: Boxed Wine of the Year
    • Edna Valley
      • Silver medal: Chardonnay 2019
      • Bronze medal: Rosé 2020
    • MacMurray Estate Vineyards
      • Silver medal: Pinot Noir 2018
    • Prophecy
      • Silver medal: Pinot Noir 2018
      • Bronze medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
    • Starborough
      • Silver medal: Sauvignon Blanc 2020
    • Talbott
      • Silver medal: Kali Hart Chardonnay 2019
    • William Hill Estate Winery
      • Bronze medal: Chardonnay 2019
      • Bronze medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
      • Bronze medal: Chardonnay 2019
  • Fazeli Cellars (Temecula, CA)
    • Gold medal: Merlot 2017
    • Silver medal: Shiraz 2017
    • Bronze medal: Petite Sirah 2017
    • Individual award: Temecula Winery of the Year
  • Frey Vineyards (Redwood Valley, CA)
    • Frey Organic
      • Double Gold medal: Sauvignon Blanc 2019
      • Gold medal: Viognier 2018
      • Silver medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
      • Silver medal: Sun & Rain Chardonnay 2019
      • Silver medal: Pinot Grigio 2019
      • Bronze medal: Zinfandel 2019
      • Bronze medal: Chardonnay 2019
      • Individual award: California Organic Winery of the Year
    • Frey Biodynamic
      • Gold medal: Merlot 2019
      • Silver medal: Chardonnay 2019
  • Garemani Wines (Santa Barbara, CA)
    • Gold medal: Chardonnay 2019
    • Gold medal: Pinot Noir 2019
    • Silver medal: Merlot 2019
    • Bronze medal: Sauvignon Blanc 2019
    • Bronze medal: Tannat 2019
    • Individual award: Central Coast Pinot Noir Winery of the Year
  • Halleck Vineyard (Sebastopol, CA)
    • Double Gold medal: Pinot Noir; Three Sons Cuvee 2017
    • Gold medal: Calandrelli Vineyard 2019
    • Gold medal: Hillside Cuvee 2017
    • Silver medal: Little Sister Sauvignon Blanc 2019
    • Silver medal: The Farm Vineyards 2017
    • Silver medal: Clone 828 2018
    • Bronze medal: Pinot Noir; Haas Vineyard 2017
    • Individual award: California Gewurztraminer Winery of the Year
    • Individual award: Russian River Pinot Noir Winery of the Year
  • Hartlam Winery (San Gabriel, CA)
    • Gold medal: Grenache 2020
    • Silver medal: Syrah Rosé wine 2020
    • Bronze medal: Sauvignon blanc 2020
    • Individual award: California Grenache Winery of the Year
  • Herzog Wine Cellars (Oxnard, CA)
    • Double Gold medal: American Oak Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
    • Gold medal: Choreograph 2020
    • Gold medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
    • Gold medal: Rosé 2020
    • Silver medal: French Oak Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
    • Silver medal: Four Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
    • Bronze medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
    • Bronze medal: Pinot Grigio 2020
    • Bronze medal: Momentus
    • Bronze medal: Sauvignon Blanc 2020
    • Individual award: Kosher Winery of the Year
  • Kenwood Vineyards (Kenwood, CA)
    • Double Gold medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
    • Gold medal: Six Ridges Chardonnay 2018
    • Silver medal: Sauvignon Blanc 2019
    • Silver medal: Jack London Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
    • Bronze medal: Six Ridges Sauvignon Blanc 2019
    • Bronze medal: Six Ridges Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
    • Bronze medal: Chardonnay 2018
    • Bronze medal: Pinot Noir 2018
    • Individual award: Sonoma County Chardonnay Winery of the Year
  • Libelle Wines (St Helena, CA)
    • Gold medal: Grüner Veltliner 2019
    • Individual award: Gruner Veltliner Winery of the Year
  • Maker Wine Company (San Francisco, CA)
    • Gold medal: Chenin Blanc 2020
    • Silver medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
    • Silver medal: Sparkling Rose
    • Silver medal: Merlot 2018
    • Bronze medal: Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc 2020
    • Bronze medal: Rose of Grenache 2020
    • Individual award: Chenin Blanc Winery of the Year
  • Mystic Hills Vineyard (San Miguel, CA)
    • Gold medal: Unforgiven 2015
    • Bronze medal: Gran Trio 2015
    • Individual award: San Luis Obispo County Winery of the Year
  • New Clairvaux Vineyard (Vina, CA)
    • Gold medal: Moschofilero 2020
    • Silver medal: Barbera Rose 2020
    • Silver medal: Petite Sirah 2018
    • Bronze medal: Assyrtiko 2020
    • Individual award: Tehama County Winery of the Year
  • Nichelini Family Winery (St Helena, CA)
    • Gold medal: Remeber
    • Silver medal: Sauvignon Blanc 2020
    • Silver medal: Engine 318
    • Individual award: Napa Rose Winery of the Year
  • Oak Farm Vineyards (Lodi, CA)
    • Gold medal: Sauvignon Blanc 2020
    • Silver medal: Zinfandel 2018
    • Silver medal: Rosé 2020
    • Bronze medal: Chardonnay 2020
    • Individual award: Lodi Winery of the Year
  • Penrose Hill (Napa, CA)
    • Double Gold medal: Musa Noctuaria Rosé of Garnacha 2020
    • Double Gold medal: Trailstone Chardonnay 2019
    • Gold medal: Tintoretto Pinot Grigio 2019
    • Gold medal: Watchful Maker Bold Red Wine 2018
    • Silver medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
    • Silver medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
    • Bronze medal: Iron Arrow White Blend 2019
    • Bronze medal: Luxana Sauvignon Blanc 2020
    • Bronze medal: Penrose Hill Rosé of Pinot Noir 2019
    • Bronze medal: Tintoretto Sangiovese 2019
    • Individual award: Spain Rose of the Year
    • Individual award: Italy Pinot Grigio Winery of the Year
    • Individual award: Columbia Valley Winery of the Year
  • Perchance Estates (Rutherford, CA)
    • Double Gold medal: Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard 2018
    • Individual award: Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon Wine of the Year
  • PR Farms, Inc. (Clovis, CA)
    • Gold medal: My Italian Cousin Eugenio 2018
    • Silver medal: My Italian Cousin Eugenio 2016
  • Rodney Strong Wine Estates (Healdsburg, CA)
    • Double Gold medal: Russian River Valley; Estate Rose of Pinot Noir 2020
    • Gold medal: California Chardonnay 2019
    • Silver medal: Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2017
    • Silver medal: River West Single Vineyard Chardonnay 2017
    • Silver medal: Red Blend 2018
    • Silver medal: Knotty Vines Pinot Noir 2018
    • Silver medal: Russian River Valley Estate Pinot Noir 2017
    • Bronze medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
    • Bronze medal: Sonoma County Merlot 2017
    • Individual award: Russian River Winery of the Year
  • Vinesse (Westlake Village, CA)
    • Double Gold medal: Sangiovese 2019
    • Gold medal: Garnacha 2019
    • Gold medal: Merlot 2019
    • Gold medal: Chardonnay 2019
    • Silver medal: Merlot 2019
    • Silver medal: Chenin Blanc 2019
    • Silver medal: Bordeaux Superieur Red Wine 2018
    • Silver medal: Montepulciano 2019
    • Bronze medal: Syrah 2019
    • Bronze medal: Shiraz 2019
    • Bronze medal: Sauvignon Blanc 2019
    • Bronze medal: Aglianico 2019
    • Individual award: Wahluke Slope Winery of the Year
    • Individual award: International Wine Club of the Year
  • Vintage Wine Estates (Santa Rosa, CA)
    • Gold medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
    • Gold medal: Chardonnay 2020
    • Gold medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
    • Gold medal: Malbec 2020
    • Gold medal: Zinfandel 2019
    • Silver medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
    • Silver medal: Sauvignon Blanc 2020
    • Silver medal: White Zinfandel 2020
    • Silver medal: Moscato 2020
    • Bronze medal: Sangiovese 2020
    • Bronze medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
  • VJB Cellars (Kenwood, CA)
    • Gold medal: Barbera 2018
    • Silver medal: Primitivo 2017
    • Silver medal: Nebbiolo 2017
    • Silver medal: Wellington Cellars Merlot 2017
    • Bronze medal: Wellington Cellars 1882 Zinfandel
    • Individual award: Sonoma Winery of the Year
  • WineShop At Home
    • Gold medal: Sauvignon Blanc 2020
    • Gold medal: Alcedo 2019
    • Silver medal: Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
    • Silver medal: Hero’s Blend 2017
    • Bronze medal: Black Muscat 2020
    • Individual award: Chile Sauvignon Blanc of the Year

About the New York International Wine Competition:

The NYIWC is part of the International Beverage Competition (IBC) series, a unique group of wine, beer, and spirits competitions taking place in New York City, Berlin, Melbourne, and Hong Kong annually. The judging panels at all IBC competitions consist entirely of active trade buyers, including sommeliers, cicerones, retail store buyers, distributors, importers, restaurant beverage directors, and more. The organizers of the competition feel that these judges, whose livelihood rely upon their skill set, truly know what the consumer wants, as they receive on a daily basis the feedback from the consumer of what is good and what will sell. The carefully selected judges taste the products in a blind tasting format, judging the products by both category and price.

From Founder Adam Levy:

“We’re the only international beverage competitions where all the judges are real trade buyers who are judging by category and actual price. These judges are buyers from the top New York Area liquor stores, restaurants, hotels and more. The submissions in 2021 were exceptionally good, and the judges were excited to be able to sample such a wide range of well-executed traditional styles of alcohol, as well as some more inventive products from all over the USA and internationally. Many of our judges discovered new products that they will be incorporating into their inventories in the coming year.”

View the full list of 2021 winners, learn more about the judging panel, and find information about submitting products for next year’s competition at https://nyiwinecompetition.com. In addition to the annual competition series, the IBC also publishes The Alcohol Professor – an online “homeroom” for the beverage trade and the enlightened consumer to learn about all things bibulous. Visit https://www.alcoholprofessor.com/ for thoughtful, in-depth articles about wine, beer, spirits, and more.

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

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

Eve and WineLA.com founder Ian Blackburn in 2016.

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

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

STARS OF CABERNET WINE LIST

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CLOS DU VAL
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 15k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

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

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

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

The 2019 STARS of Cabernet Tasting List

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

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Twisted Roots Wine branches off into creating hard cider

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CARMEL VALLEY, Calif. — Winemaker Josh Ruiz insists he began bottling hard cider out of necessity. So naturally, he believes it’s necessary that we drink it.

The longtime owner and vintner at Twisted Roots Wine has branched out (literally) into fermented apples, culminating in the birth of Twisted Roots Hard Cider.

Ruiz and his wife Julie sensed a growing market for a light, crisp, easy-drinking cider — once a favored beverage in colonial America until Prohibition destroyed the industry. Hard cider has exploded in growth in the U.S. over the past few years, buoyed by an adventurous, health-conscious younger set, and the fact that cider (unlike beer) is gluten-free.

The couple spent time researching the cider culture in England, and found that it varied greatly depending on the region, the weather and the fruit, just like wine.

They wanted to create the antithesis of a typical American cider that is often over-carbonated and sweet — something Ruiz called “candy apple ciders.

”

“People were ready for something else, especially those who love our wines.”

So they created Twisted Roots Hard Cider, a light, crisp beverage that is low in sugar and carbs — “something clean, simple and refreshing.”

Twisted Roots uses a combination of five fresh apple varieties, each of which add unique elements to the finished product:

Golden Russets enhance the bouquet and aromatics, and contribute complexity and fruit flavor Granny Smiths add tannic structure and tartness, adding to the mouthfeel Galas help deliver a clean, refreshing finish Fujis lend just the right amount of sweetness Red Delicious bring rich mouth-feel and a distinctly apple aromatic quality Twisted Roots Hard Cider has 6 percent alcohol, and a 22-ounce serving contains only 140 calories. For Ruiz, the beauty of making a hard cider without high amounts of sugar and carbohydrates?

You can drink more of it!

Tastings of Twisted Roots Hard Cider are available at the wine tasting room in Carmel Valley, 12 Del Fino Place. For information or to purchase bottles online, visit www.twistedrootshardcider.com or call 594-8282.

Carmel Part Two: Walking To and From Wine Tasting, 5th Avenue Deli Lunch in the Park and Tarpy’s Hanging (Vintage Eve Circa 7/2015)

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I did the Carmel-by-the-Sea Wine Walk three years ago. At that time I stayed in nearby Monterey. What a difference not driving makes! Free to finish a taste and not pour out everything, I still split my tasting with my husband Eddie, but this time I enjoyed visiting MORE tasting rooms:

11695409_10205958215981925_5885596543805830311_nWe started at the popular Wrath (named after Steinbeck’s Grapes of Wrath according to the tasting room staff) where we noted a nice 2013 Sauvignon Blanc, 2012 Chardonnay and found our favorite of the day: 2012 Syrah, San Saba Vineyard, Monterey.

Then came Scheid Vineyards where we enjoyed 2011 Triple Layer Red of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre.

Manzoni had several deep reds from the Santa Lucia Highlands: a 2012 Syrah, 2012 Zinfandel, 2012 Big Ped Red blend of Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Tannat.

Enjoyed a limited release Tempranillo and a 2011 Zinfandel at Shale Canyon Wines, a winery from the Arroyo Seco AVA. Every wine they have in their current line-up is 100% the varietal on the label.

Blair Estate produced several wines in the cold climate region Monterey is known for: Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir.

Galante Vineyards, from the warmer region of Carmel Valley served up Malbecs, red blends, Cabs and Merlot.

Another I had visited three years ago, Silvestri, did not disappoint. This time we were happy with a 2013 Pinot Blanc, a Rose of Barbera and Pinot Noir grapes and a straight Barbera.

A tasting room that wasn’t there when I last visited (more tasting rooms keep springing up!) is De Tierra Vineyards. The young winemaker had several wine club members/fans to tell me what their favorites were. I had to agree that the 2013 Riesling was delightful: more akin to a dry German-style Riesling as this wine was not cloyingly sweet. The aromatics alone were worth savoring, and the taste was a great refreshing end to our day.

(In looking for lunch at the beach or park in a break from our tasting we checked out 5th Avenue Deli for supplies. Here we found more than enough: custom made-to-order sandwiches, a taco bar, salads and the usual necessities like candy, chips…and wine. We were given directions to a local park where we quietly picnicked, the scene complete when a bridal party served as a backdrop to both their photographer and a gift from the bride to the groom: the sudden appearance of a bagpiper in full regalia.)

Checking Out Tarpy’s Roadhouse

Never been to a 5-acre “roadhouse” restaurant before so I wasn’t even sure what to wear to Tarpy’s Roadhouse for our dinner ten minutes away in Monterey. The menu and photos online looked great though!

When you arrive in the parking lot you will see – and think, wow this was gorgeous – a pond, a non-working well and the entrance all surrounded by lush flowers and shrubs. Two hostesses greeted us and we were seated immediately.

Amy, our friendly, knowledgeable and solicitous waitress checked in with us, again almost immediately, and we were on our way perusing the bar menu and wine list on an iPad. Amy later recited the specials, which physically caused my salivary glands to go into overdrive, and we made our selections: We shared an appetizer of Deviled Eggs made with spicy tuna over a pepperoni/sausage paste (spicy goodness there that we will definitely try and duplicate at home!), I ordered the Angus Top Sirloin that came with garlic mashed potatoes and grilled Chard with bacon (couldn’t finish it but Eddie could!) and Ed had filet mignon wrapped in bacon, green beans and a decadently rich scalloped potatoes made with Gruyere cheese. He thought they were the best potatoes he had ever had. As we had been wine tasting all day we were pretty exhausted…so I just had a glass of Seghesio Zinfandel while Ed had a vodka martini.

When we were done we asked for a tour. Come to find that there are several private dining rooms for groups of 20, 40, or more. Weddings took place on the property as well as business meetings. The name, Tarpy, belongs to one Matt Tarpy, who, in his day, was well-liked until he turned himself in for killing his neighbor in a land dispute. He was publicly hanged on the same land on which the restaurant now stands.

Facebook album link: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10205958130979800.1073741920.1455706632&type=1&l=17edf95d76

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The Carmel Wine Walk by-the-Sea is a self-paced self-guided stroll to the tasting rooms, which are all within a few blocks of each other on the both sides of Ocean Avenue. They are Blair Estate Artisan Wines, Caraccioli Cellars, De Tierra Vineyards, Figge Cellars, Galante Vineyards, Manzoni Cellars, Scheid Vineyards, Shale Canyon Wines, Vino Napoli and Wrath Wines.…(more)

About 5th Avenue Deli & Catering Co

5th Ave. Deli continuously innovates to increase customer satisfaction by offering a quick service format that provides a high- quality” range of delicious sandwiches, salads, fresh made soups, with a salad & taco bar. We use fresh ingredients while also enabling customers to…(more)

About Tarpy’s Roadhouse

A Monterey Restaurant. Relax in this 1917 Roadhouse and enjoy creative, Five Star American Country Cuisine. The wood-burning grill provides wonderful flavors for wild game, the freshest seafood and prime steaks. Set on five landscaped acres, the patios and extensive gardens provide a refreshing backdrop for hearty sandwiches, vegetarian entrees and tempting salads. Tarpy’s has seven private and semi-private…(more)

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 (over 15k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and served as a judge for the L.A. International Wine Competition, Long Beach Grand Cru and Global Wine Awards.  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

Carmel Part One: Bavarian Themes and Hospitality in Carmel Begin and End at the Original Hofsas House Hotel (Vintage Eve Circa 6/2014)

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Of course I’ve been to Carmel before. I may have even noticed the prevalence of Dutch doors (doors split in half so you can swing open at the top) and Bavarian themed buildings. But I needed to ask Carrie Theis, granddaughter of founder Donna Hofsas of the Hofsas House Hotel, a few things about it:

11709265_10205958143620116_2272339637345629426_nWas Hofsas House following an established existing theme in selecting Bavarian architecture for its buildings 60 years ago?

Carmel, the “Village in the Forrest by the Sea”, has always had a European Village feel. (Carmel will be celebrating its 100th year in 2016.) It was established by many Bohemian type residents, and Mr. Fred Hofsas (pronounced “hoff-says”) had Bavarian ancestry.

Fred and his wife Donna had built a cottage to start and traveled to Bavaria before the hotel’s expansion. Their cottage home is now part of the property as guest cottages. (Hofsas House is not the oldest hotel in Carmel; that would be the Pine Inn.) No hotel is allowed to build over two stories above street level and lots are small in keeping with the European cottage theme throughout Carmel.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is only 1-square mile large, making it ideal for walking everywhere: (The Wine Walk being first on my list, as well as visiting shops, restaurants, galleries and bars.)

Why Bavaria? Were many of the residents back then from Germany?

Fred and Donna Hofsas have ties to Bavaria but Carmel’s founders migrated here after the San Francisco earthquake. Many writers and artists also found a home in Carmel, giving the town a very Bohemian feel.  Each home is unique, there are no tract homes to be found. Flowers are year round, and air conditioning isn’t needed.

Could I see more of the murals and paintings by artist Maxine Albro? Hofsas House is the only hotel with these accents. I asked to see room 47 to see the special headboard by Albro and the valence, walls, end tables and crown molding by local artist Christine Sorenson. I was amazed at the different furnishings and offerings in the rooms. See my story of the unique art here in my Facebook album.

Adding the Carmel-by-the-Sea Wine Walk to the existing landscape of beautiful surf, unique cottage homes, restaurants, shops and art galleries…works for me. Do people enjoy taking it all in without driving?

Carrie said that guests enjoy walking everywhere and that’s another thing that makes Carmel different. (In the past I had stayed in Monterey while my husband Eddie was attending the Naval Post Graduate School there. Now I think that one day in Cannery Row was enough. It’s a metropolis, Carmel is not.)

“Carmel is a place to get away from technology and reconnect,” Carrie said. “We are very low-key. And as Carmel faces west we have nightly sunsets” to offer.

After my stay these key points about the hotel stuck with me and make me want to return: Family-run and family-friendly. Bavarian-inspired. Ocean view from large private balconies. Wine waiting in the room after check-in. Fireplace turns on with the flip of a switch. A complete S’Mores, map to beach fire pits and firewood package. Original one-of-a-kind art. Loved my Dutch door. Walking distance to everything. French roast coffee in my room. Pets welcome. Large rooms, each with unique styling. A feeling of history. FREE Wi-Fi, continental breakfast with local baked goods and parking.

About Hofsas House

Hofsas House 4th Ave. & San Carlos St. Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA  93921

831-624-2745 (Direct)/831-624-0159 (Fax) Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HofsasHouseHotel http://www.hofsashouse.com/

The Hofsas House Hotel is a boutique family-owned inn with 38 uniquely decorated, spacious rooms, many with ocean views overlooking the pines in the village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Dutch doors appoint each room allowing our guests to enjoy the fresh ocean air. Our guests watch glorious sunsets over the Pacific Ocean from the privacy of the inn’s decks or rooms. Some rooms and most suites have fireplaces, private balconies, wet bars or kitchens…(more)

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 and Global Wine Awards.  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