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

March 23, 2021 by evebushman

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

Eve and WineLA.com founder Ian Blackburn in 2016.

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

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

STARS OF CABERNET WINE LIST

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CLOS DU VAL
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

November 22, 2019 by evebushman

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

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

The 2019 STARS of Cabernet Tasting List

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

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

Twisted Roots Wine branches off into creating hard cider

October 13, 2019 by evebushman

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)

August 28, 2018 by evebushman

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:

We 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

About The Carmel Wine Walk By-The-Sea

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 5^th 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)

August 21, 2018 by evebushman

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:

Was 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

Perlis Picks: Taste The World

July 7, 2018 by Michael Perlis

Every two years, trade and media has the opportunity to “taste the world” with distributor and importer Henry Wine Group. In a large ballroom at the Westin Bonaventure filled with wine and a small section devoted to spirits [covered by Eve in a recent article] we got to sample literally hundreds [if one were so inclined] of offerings from a wide variety of domestic and international producers.

Upon entering the event, we were provided with a wine tasting glass and a 158 page book – I told you there were a lot of wines to taste! Here were some of my favorites…

Ancient Peaks – I always love the Renegade and the Oyster Ridge blends, and the 2015 and 2014 of these, respectively, were both excellent.

Andrew Murray Vineyards – Another old favorite, one of the wineries that first got me into Rhones. The 2016 Enchante did it for me today.

Dashe Cellars – They’ve expanded their fun carbonic maceration line and continue to make great Zinfandels, including my usual favorite Todd Brothers Ranch (2015 this time).

Elizabeth Spencer Winery – I wasn’t really familiar with this Mendocino based winery but getting introduced to their delicious 2016 Grenache solved that problem.

Joullian Vineyards – One might not expect great Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon from the Monterey Peninsula, but this winery in the Carmel Valley belies that notion with their 2013 ‘Sias Cuvee’ Zin and 2014 Estate Cab.

Mettler Family Vineyards – I liked all three of the wines this Lodi winery was pouring – the Estate Cabernet, the “Epicenter” Old Vine Zinfandel and especially the Estate Petite Sirah, all from the 2015 vintage.

Mundovino – This importer had a whopping 10 tables at the event. Admittedly, I tend to focus on domestic producers but I wanted to try some Argentinean Malbec. I tasted some very impressive wines from Catena at all price points, especially the 2014 Catena Zapata Alta Malbec and the 2015 Catena Zapata Argentino Malbec.

Pestoni Family Estate Winery – Another new to me winery, I enjoyed everything they poured – 2016 Rutherford Sauvignon Blanc, 2015 “1892” Field Blend and the 2013 and 2014 Howell Mtn Cabernet Sauvignons.

Saucelito Canyon Vineyards – Great Zinfandel from the Arroyo Grande Valley? You better believe it. Their 2015 Estate Zinfandel comes from a vineyard that was originally planted in 1880.

Shafer Vineyards – Shafer’s Cabernet Sauvignons are legendary and I wasn’t going to pass up a chance to taste them. Loved both the 2015 One Point Five Stag’s Leap and of course the 2013 Hillside Select Stag’s Leap as well.

Sinor-Lavallee – Bringing this list full circle, this is Ancient Peaks’ Director of Winemaking Mike Sinor’s own project. The Pinot Noirs were great but I was admittedly here for the Syrahs – the 2013 White Label – Bassi Vineyard, 2015 SLO/Estate and 2014 Black Label – Bassi Vineyard were all outstanding.

There was obviously a lot more I could have tasted [158 pages, after all] but I probably spent too much time catching up with various members of the trade who I’ve known over the years. My biggest takeaway from all this is that Henry Wine Group represents some excellent wineries. If you see their name on the label as distributor or importer, you can be assured you are getting quality, regardless of the price point.

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

Hofsas House Hotel in Carmel Announces Special Packages for 2018

December 25, 2017 by evebushman

The Hofsas House Hotel, a 38-room boutique family-owned inn in the heart of Carmel, is pleased to announce the launch of its special packages for 2018.

The packages appeal to a wide variety of guests, from art and wine lovers to dog owners, chocolate lovers and those looking for a relaxing spa experience. To book any of these packages during your stay, call (831) 624-2745 or email info@hofsashouse.com.

Hofsas House Packages for 2018

Get Artsy Package

For decades, Carmel, California has been a haven for artists, from authors, poets and actors to painters and sculptors. Today there are more than 80 art galleries within walking distance from the hotel. The Hofsas House is part of that artistic tradition and has been touched by one of the world’s most famous artists. Did you know that artist Maxine Albro was commissioned by Donna Hofsas to paint the welcoming mural and the headboard featured in Room 47 of the Hofsas House? In the 1940s and 1950s, Maxine was living in Carmel and was friends with Donna. After the main four-story addition to the Hofsas House was completed in 1957, Donna asked Maxine to paint the mural and add other highlights to the front of the building to enhance the hotel’s Bavarian theme. Maxine also painted the three pictures now hanging in the lobby.

The Hofsas House celebrates Carmel’s artistic legacy by offering guests its special “Get Artsy Package.” This package includes a stay in the Room 47 — the very room Maxine Albro painted! Mention the Hofsas House “Get Artsy” package with the code “HHArt” and receive a gourmet cheese tray and bottle of wine upon arrival.

Carmel continues to be an artist colony and attracts some of the world’s most famous artists, including painters, sculptors, and photographers. Hofsas House can help arrange a tour of Carmel’s art galleries and artists’ studios with Carmel Art Tours. Discover secret passageways, visit hand-picked galleries, both the internationally acclaimed and the hidden gems. There’s also an opportunity for a chance encounter with an artist at work in a Carmel studio. Cost is $25 per person, reservations are required, and participants meet for the tour at Carmel Visitors Center. Info at www.carmelarttours.com or 800-979-3370.

Wine and Chocolate Package

Upgrade your stay at Hofsas House with a four pack of handcrafted artisanal sea salt caramels from Monterey’s Lula’s Chocolates and a bottle of award-winning Monterey County wine.

Monterey County wines are now on par with California’s other legendary wine regions such as Napa and Sonoma. In fact, Wine Enthusiast magazine named Monterey County as one of the world’s top 10 wine destinations — ahead of the Napa Valley and in the company of the other famed wine-growing regions around the world.

Monterey County produces 42 different varietals of high-quality, award-winning wines, especially Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. For this special package choose either a Monterey County Chardonnay or Pinot Noir from a personally selected list of wines.

Lula’s Chocolates, founded by Scott Lund, are made the old-fashioned way, using recipes passed down from Scott’s grandmother, Lula herself. To this day, Lula’s makes sure each hand-dipped, small batch, deliciously fresh chocolate is an experience worth savoring.

Cost for this wine-and-chocolate package is $25. Use the code “HHChoc” when booking this package.

Tail-Wagging Package

Hofsas House is one of the most dog-friendly hotels in Carmel. Guests receive a complimentary “Doggie Welcome Package” upon arrival that includes:

Hofsas House dog Frisbee

Hofsas House collapsible dog bowl

Special dog bed

Letter from Tank, our onsite Pet Concierge

Special dog amenities package

Tips and recommendations for your four-legged friend’s stay

Walking trail and hiking guide

A package of treats

Coastal Canine Magazine, offering the best four-legged options for visiting Carmel

This package requires a minimum two-night stay, $30 fee per night for one dog and $50 per night for two dogs.

Relax at Cinq Mondes Spa Carmel

Cinq Mondes Spa Carmel is the French cosmetic company’s first and only Cinq Mondes spa in the United States and serves as the company’s flagship location in the U.S. Cinq Mondes Spa Carmel combines tradition, beauty, authenticity, and luxury, allowing guests to enjoy a soothing sensory voyage of the five different worlds in the nearby Crossroads Shopping Center in Carmel.

Cinq Mondes has gathered a selection of traditional treatments from around the world that are remarkable for their quality, authenticity and ceremonial traditions.

Hofsas House is partnering with Cinq Mondes to offer guests a relaxing and soothing spa package that includes a 60-minute massage or facial. Cinq Mondes’ signature facial is the “Ko-Bi-Do” for its unique use of Dermapuncture, or “acupuncture without needles,” as an anti-aging facial, and its signature massage is the Moroccan massage. Price is $120 per massage or facials.

All Hofsas House guests will get a special gift from Cinq Monde. This special package must be booked at least 72 hours in advance and is subject to availability.

About Hofsas House

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.

The Hofsas House is located three blocks north of Ocean Avenue, eight blocks from the picturesque white sand Carmel beach and one block from a child-friendly City park. There is plenty of off-street parking and guests delight in walking everywhere in Carmel from the inn. Enjoy a continental breakfast in the morning with French roast coffee, tea, fresh pastries delivered from a local bakery, juice, yogurt and fruit.

Other amenities include a heated swimming pool, dry saunas, view deck areas and free wireless Internet access. Some rooms are dog friendly. Casual elegance, personal service and traditional family hospitality are the trademarks of Hofsas House Hotel.

Hofsas House Hotel

Between 3rd & 4th Ave on San Carlos Street

P.O. Box 1195 | Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921

(831) 624-2745 | info@hofsashouse.com

www.hofsashouse.com

Tickets On Sale Now for Big Sur Foragers Festival

December 6, 2017 by evebushman

Big Sur Foragers Festival is excited to announce the return of their feature venue, the Fungus Face Off, to longtime partner, Ventana Big Sur, for 2018. The community’s non-profit, Big Sur Health Center, will receive the proceeds from all of the festival events to help support the continued presence of local healthcare services in the Big Sur area.

From the website, photo from 2016 event.

2018 Includes:

Friday night dinner series with local restaurants giving a percentage of the proceeds to the Big Sur Health Center.

Several local restaurants will host winemaker’s dinners.

The sixth annual Fungus Face Off will take place at Ventana Big Sur Ocean Meadow Lawn. The Big Sur Health Center is looking forward to returning to Ventana Big Sur for 2018.

Tickets On Sale Now

Participants Include:

Chefs/Restaurants

Roy’s
Carmel Valley Ranch
The Sur House at Ventana Big Sur
Alvarado Street Brewery
A Taste of Elegance

Wineries and Breweries

Mesa del Sol
Morgan Winery
Bernardus Winery
Comanche Cellars
Mad Otter Ale
Boony Doon Vineyards
Blair Wines
Baker and Brain
Paul Lato Wines
Fillipponi Winery
Alvarado Street Brewery
Fly Wheel Wine
Chappellet Vineyards

Marketplace Vendors and Tastings:

Carmel Honey Company
Quail and Olive
Percy Pies

Wild Mushroom Walk and Talk Details To Be Announced

L.A. Loves Alex’s 8th Annual Cookout Raises Record $1.3 Million for Childhood Cancer Research

September 24, 2017 by evebushman

Annual Cookout with Culinary Stars Breaks New Record with Enthusiastic Support from the Entertainment Industry

The 8^th annual L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade Stand was an overwhelming success raising over $1.3 million for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, breaking last year’s record for the event. Located at Royce Quad on the campus of UCLA, the day was perfect for chefs and fans to come together to support childhood cancer research.

Participating Vintners and Mixologists gather at the 2017 LA Love’s Alex’s Lemonade Stand Chef’s Cookout at UCLA in Los Angeles, CA on September 9, 2017. (Photo: Alex J. Berliner / ABImages)

A few highlights:

More than 2,200 people, including more than 100 chefs, mixologists and vintners were on hand to raise funds and awareness for childhood cancer research.
Inspiring speech by Jay & Liz Scott, Alex’s parents, and co-executive directors of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, and highlighting the importance of how we all can make a difference. Patrick Scott, son of Liz and Jay and older brother to Alex read a letter he wrote to his sister on the 13^th anniversary of her death.
A dynamic live and silent auction that raised more than $640,000, including a women’s chef dinner including Suzanne Goin, April Bloomfield, Giada De Laurentiis, Nancy Oakes and Sherry Yard and an impromptu dinner coordinated with Jimmy Kimmel and chefs such as Jonathan Waxman and Chris Bianco held at his barn, which raised $200,000 ($100,000 twice)
A Kids Campaign that raised over $50,000 from holding lemonade stands, bake sales and other creative activities, with the check being presented to Liz and Jay Scott
Over 60 Young Investigator grantees who have dedicated their lives and careers to finding better treatments and cures for kids with cancer.

To view more images: L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade 2017

Culinary and Entertainment Stars Join Battle Against Childhood Cancer At L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade Culinary Event

Camilla Belle – 10,000 B.C.,. The Lost World

Denise Butte – For the Love of Ruth

Brian Dietzen – NCIS

Kate Flannery – The Office

Taylor Hay – Strings, childhood cancer hero

Jimmy Kimmel and Molly McNearney – Jimmy Kimmel Live!

Alex Lange – social media influencer

Tom Lenk – Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Bailee Madison – Good Witch

Adam McArthur – Star vs. the Forces of Evil

Renee Felice Smith – NCIS

Emily Tyra – Code Black

Wilmer Valderrama – NCIS

Kirsten Vangsness – Criminal Minds

Jaleel White – Family Matters

Emily Wickersham – NCIS

Participating Chefs

Nick Anderer (New York, NY) – Maialino

Wes Avila (Los Angeles, CA) – Guerrilla Tacos

Chris Bianco (Phoenix, AZ) – Pizzeria Bianco

April Bloomfield (Los Angeles, CA) – The Hearth and Hound

Michael Cimarusti (Los Angeles, CA) – Providence

Josiah Citrin (Los Angeles, CA) – Melisse

Scott Conant (Los Angeles, CA) – Ponte

Giada De Laurentiis (Las Vegas, NV) – Giada

Eva Ein (Santa Barbara, CA) – McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams

Sue Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken (Los Angeles, CA) – Border Grill

Michael Fiorelli (Los Angeles, CA) – Love & Salt

Jeremy Fox (Los Angeles, CA) – Rustic Canyon

Neal Fraser (Los Angeles, CA) – Redbird

Evan Funke (Venice, CA) – Felix Trattoria

Ray Garcia (Los Angeles, CA) – Broken Spanish

Suzanne Goin, Javier Espinoza, Amy Deaderick, Adam Cherney and Mercedes Rojas (Los Angeles, CA) – Lucques, a.o.c., Tavern

Hedy Goldsmith (Los Angeles, CA) – Sweet Hedy

Valerie Gordon (Los Angeles, CA) – Valerie Confections

Cosmo Goss (Chicago, IL) – The Publican

Jonathan Grahm (Los Angeles, CA) – Compartes Chocolatier

Hilary Henderson (Los Angeles, CA) – CUT by Wolfgang Puck

Maria Hines (Seattle, WA) – Tilth Restaurant

Timothy Hollingsworth (Los Angeles, CA) – Otium, Barrel & Ashes

Bruce Kalman (Los Angeles, CA) – Union, Knead Pasta + Co.

Sara Kramer and Sarah Hymanson (Los Angeles, CA) – Madcapra, Kismet

David LeFevre (Manhattan Beach, CA) – Manhattan Beach Post, Fishing with Dynamite

David Lentz (Los Angeles, CA) – The Hungry Cat

Donald Link (New Orleans, LA) – Pêche, Herbsaint, Cochon, Cochon Butcher

Jenn Louis (Portland, OR) – Ray

Bricia Lopez (Los Angeles, CA) – Guelaguetza

Tyler Malek (Los Angeles, CA) – Salt & Straw

Walter and Margarita Manzke (Los Angeles, CA) – Republique

Kevin Meehan (Los Angeles, CA) – Kali

Ori Menashe (Los Angeles, CA) – Bestia

Ryan Messina (Yosemite National Park, CA) – Majestic Yosemite Hotel

Danny Meyer (Los Angeles, CA) – Shake Shack (After Party)

Matt Molina (Los Angeles, CA) – Everson Royce Bar

Dahlia Narvaez (Los Angeles, CA) – Mozza Restaurant Group

Zoe Nathan (Los Angeles, CA) – Huckleberry

Nancy Oakes (San Francisco, CA) – Boulevard

Adam Perry Lang (Hollywood, CA) – APL Restaurant

Chris Phelps (Los Angeles, CA) – Salt’s Cure

Zachary Pollack (Los Angeles, CA) – Alimento

Steve Samson (Los Angeles, CA) – Sotto, Rossoblu

Michael Schwartz (Miami, FL) – The Genuine Hospitality Group, Amara at Paraiso

Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo (Los Angeles, CA) – Animal Restaurant Group

Nancy Silverton (Los Angeles, CA) – Nancy’s Fancy Gelato

Cal Stamenov (Carmel, CA) – Lucia Restaurant & Bar

John Sundstrom (Seattle, WA) – Lark, Bitter/Raw, Slab Sandwiches & Pie

Andrew Sutton (Anaheim, CA) – Napa Rose at DISNEY

Shannon Swindle (Los Angeles, CA) – Craft

Suzanne Tracht (Los Angeles, CA) – Jar

Marc Vetri and Jeff Michaud (Philadelphia, PA) – Pizzeria Vetri

Jonathan Waxman (New York, NY) – Barbuto

Rocco Whalen (Cleveland, OH) – Fahrenheit

Jason Winters (Los Angeles, CA) – Urban Pie

Sherry Yard (Los Angeles, CA) – IPIC Group

Shiho Yoshikawa (Los Angeles, CA) – Sweet Rose Creamery

Mixologists

Jeremy Allan – Minibar Hollywood

Eric Alperin – Varnish

Neal Bodenheimer – Cure

Matthew Biancaniello – Eat your drink

Beau du Bois – Corner Door

Dave Kupchinsky – Freehand Hotel

Shawn Lickliter – Republique

Darwin Manahan – 71 Above

Ignacio Murilla – Lucques Group

Christiaan Rollich – AOC, Lucques and Tavern

Marcos Tello and Federico Lozano – El Silencio Mezcal

The Hungry Cat

Ryan Wainwright – Faith & Flower, The Ponte

Vintners

Amitie Wines

Black Sheep Finds

Chambers & Chambers

Cade

Emanuel Tres Wines

Garber & Co. A Wine Company

Grandes Places Sélections

Grapevine Wine Co.

Greg Condes Wines

Habit Wines

Hitching Post Wines

Hollywood & Wine

Hoxie Sprizers

Hudson Wine Brokers

Indigenous Selections

Jardesca

Jelly Roll Wines

Kimberly Jones Selections

Lanson Champagne

Lang & Reed

Lieu Dit

La Voix

Martiaan Ranch

Martine’s Wines

Melville Winery; Samsara

Next Generation Wine Co.

Ole Imports

Palmina

Presqui’le Wine

Rare Wine Company

Return to Terroir

Red Car Winery

Revel Wines

Sandhi/Domaine de la Cote/Evening Land

Paul Jaboulet Ainé

Shacksbury Cider

Scribe

Silverlake Wine; Everson Royce; Silverlake Wine Arts District

Soliste Winery

Springboard Wine Co.

Shiverick Imports

Strange Wines

Storm Wines

Tercero Wines

Timbre Winery

Tyler Winery

Trombetta Family Wines

Veritas Imports

Wenzlau Vineyards

WINC

The Winehouse

Whitcraft Winery

***All chefs graciously donated their time, food and talent to the cause for this event***

Photography available on request

For more information, visit alexslemonade.org

###

About Childhood Cancer

Childhood cancer is a general term used to describe cancer in children occurring regularly, randomly and sparing no ethnic group, socioeconomic class, or geographic region. Childhood cancer extends to over a dozen types of cancers and a countless amount of subtypes. Just a few of these cancer types include: Ewing’s sarcoma, glioma, leukemia, lymphoma, medulloblastoma, neuroblastoma, osteosarcoma, retinoblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma and Wilm’s tumor. In the United States, childhood cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in children under the age of 15. Every day, approximately 250 kids around the world die from cancer, accounting for 91,250 losing their lives to the disease every year.

About Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) emerged from the front yard lemonade stand of cancer patient Alexandra “Alex” Scott (1996-2004). In 2000, 4-year-old Alex announced that she wanted to hold a lemonade stand to raise money to help find a cure for all children with cancer. Since Alex held that first stand, the Foundation bearing her name has evolved into a national fundraising movement, complete with thousands of supporters across the country carrying on her legacy of hope. To date, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, a registered 501(c)3 charity, has raised more than $140 million toward fulfilling Alex’s dream of finding a cure, funding over 690 pediatric cancer research projects nationally. For more information on Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, visit AlexsLemonade.org.

Wine 101: Immersing Yourself in Wine

August 11, 2017 by evebushman

People often ask how I got started on this wine journey, both as a writer and as a marketing consultant. Let me start with the wine, of course!

The Wine Journey

Drinking wine came well before tasting it – sounds crazy but it’s true – But I was perfectly satisfied with a box of Franzia wine for a glass of something cold and pink in my early twenties. I met my future husband, and soon after his sister took us wine tasting – a vertical at Concannon.

From there we were hooked. Classes at the Wine House in West Los Angeles, local wine tasting trips and a subscription to the Wine Spectator wine magazine.

Within ten years of my study I was also a columnist for the Signal newspaper. I wrote a snarky weekly column called “Eve of Destruction”. After 9/11 I had a change of heart and grew a heart – married to a fire chief does that to you – and I retitled my columns “Another Face of Eve”.

Then John Boston, long-time Signal columnist and author, took over the then titled “Escape” weekly entertainment section. He asked what else I could write about for him. I said book reviews and wine reviews. I had been in a book club for a long time, not as long as I had been drinking wine, but both seemed to be a good fit. Boston agreed.

But then…I quickly noticed that there were rewards for wine writers that wanted to hone their craft. Invites to dinners, tastings, events and classes were being extended. No one was sending me free books to review, so I tossed my books in a heap – except the wine books I was now reviewing for review – and immersed myself in wine. That was 10 years ago.

During the past decade I’ve spent time as an “armchair writer” while my daughter was young and, later, time visiting and interviewing winemakers from my own home in the Santa Clarita Valley to Lompoc, Los Olivos, Monterey, Carmel, Napa Valley, Sonoma and finally, the mother lode: Bordeaux. I definitely have more to see.

The Consulting Journey

Before I “immersed myself in wine” I had worked as a manager in both retail establishments and in the medical field. Within ten years I had taken several continuing education courses on how to make these different businesses more profitable, had found a few mentors, started a group of brainstorming managers…and you guessed it: I started consulting. It was difficult working in an office and consulting at the same time, fast forward a few years and I left management behind when I got further into consulting and, at the same time, further into wine studies.

While I never dreamed that these two interests would ever intersect along came Michael Perlis. Michael knew of me from my years at the Signal, and once I made his acquaintance we were both convinced that we had to work together! I have never been so happy in my career! Michael offered to edit all of my articles (in every publication which by now included books and magazines) and offered to write a weekly column in my fledgling website: Eve’s Wine 101.

Michael and I were covering a lot of events pretty quickly. And, due to my friendship with another wine friend, Roman Weiser, we started working together – with a ton of local winemakers – for our Pour Into events: Pour into Haiti and Pour into Sandy. Fast forward some more, and suddenly we were being asked to help almost every non-profit in the Santa Clarita Valley marketing their wine events.

Then, a for-profit business asked us for help. Michael urged me to start Eve’s Wine 101 Consulting, which, due to my former contacts, became Eve Bushman Consulting.

And the rest, like our upcoming Cocktails on the Roof, is history.

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