Eve's Wine 101

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Support Local Restaurants and Wineries – That Have Supported the Local Community

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People that know me for the events I’ve worked on know that I have a couple of pet peeves that I make pretty clear to organizers before I’ll consider getting involved. The first is the pay-to-play event where the restaurant or winery is not only asked to donate food/wine and their personnel, they are also asked to pay for the privilege. Really? I don’t work on those.

Shannon Mee, Eve, Simon Mee. The Mees own Egg Plantation and Newhall Refinery.

The second pet peeve are the non-profit events where the organizers (and/or volunteers working for them) recruit wineries and restaurants and yet don’t “return the favor” by buying wine from the wineries, or dining in said restaurants.

I think both practices are pretty shameful. Today I’ll tackle how to rectify the latter issue, and how we can support our local community by dining out and buying wine now.

In this time of the Coronavirus I’ve made lists of all of the restaurants that have remained open that have donated to any of the events I’ve worked on or promoted. It was always appropriate to pay them back before, and to me, even more so now. So below you will find several lists of Santa Clarita businesses that have given their food or wine away to our non-profits for free.

At press time, this is a list of the restaurants on the FeedSCV website offering Drive-Thru/take Out. From this list I’ve selected the ones (and some I’ve added) that have supported the SCV by way of an event or other means (food for students) and if my memory serves me correctly they include:

Double Trouble Wine Room, Egg Plantation, Newhall Refinery, Gyu-Kaku, Honu Coffee, Jill’s Cake Creations, Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar, Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que, Marston’s Restaurant, Nealie’s Skillet, Newhall Press Room, Old Town Junction, Olive Terrace Bar and Grill, Route 66 Classic Grill, Salt Creek Grille, The Local Pub and Grill, The Social, Wolf Creek Brewery, Wolf Creek Restaurant, Alchemy, Solita Tacos and Margaritas.

Other restaurants that I’m not sure (again at press time) if they are open, but we may be able to buy gift cards from to support them now, and/or dine in them once the re-open. These include Greater Pacific in the Hyatt, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Smokehouse on Main, Claim Jumper, Red Lobster, Brewery Draconum, DeRobertis Family Artisan Cheeses (offers classes), Clarice’s Cake and Candy Supplies and Jersey Mike’s.

Local wineries (again some may be open for curbside service so check with them first) that have participated in non-profit events include Pulchella Winery, Parhelion Cellars, Entourage by Two Papas, Due Nasi, Pagter Brothers, Hoi Polloi Winery (Pagter and Hoi Polloi share the Double Trouble Wine Room on Main Street in downtown Newhall), Golden Star Vineyards, Alonso Family Vineyards (at Le Chene), Stephen Hemmert Wines, Reyes Winery and Agua Dulce Winery.

For me, to date, I’ve purchased from Newhall Press Room (dinner and groceries), Salt Creek Grille (dinner and wine), Egg Plantation (lunch and groceries), Route 66 Classic Grill (dinner and cocktails to go), The Social (dinner and cocktails to go), Olive Terrace Bar and Grill (dinner and wine to go), Wolf Creek Restaurant (dinner and wine to go), Parhelion Cellars (free no-touch delivery and discounted wine) and Pulchella Winery (club wine delivered). I have many more to go. (Note: When I’ve shared photos on social media there is usually one or more comments regarding other restaurants people want me to visit.
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Nothing against those, we all have our reasons to support different local businesses, but I have my way and you may have yours. Doesn’t make either wrong! Support local is good any way that you do it, just do it.)

The events that come to mind when I made these lists are food and wine centric. These include my own Cocktails on the Roof and Wine on the Roof as well as other big non-profit events like our Taste of the Town, Vine 2 Wine, The Wine Affair, Sunset in the Vineyard and the SCV Charity Chili Cook Off – and I’m sure there are others I haven’t thought of.

So if you have attended a food or wine event in this town, please take a moment to think of the wines and dishes you’ve enjoyed, and make your own list. Those in the service industry need our support now more than ever. And if you happen to be reading this in another community, I challenge you to seek out and patronize the restaurants and wineries that have supported your town as well. And then keep up the habit!

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.

Vintage Eve Circa April 2017: The Turf Cocktail from 12 Bottle Bar

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It’s no secret that I’m a fan of recipes from the 12 Bottle Bar book, and not just because the authors have generously served up how-to-make bitters and how-to-make scrubs at Cocktails on the Roof the last two years. We actually have local cocktail aficionados living here and I, for one, am going for the gusto in learning all I can from them.

From the 12 Bottle Bar website, this is who they are:

David Solmonson
An avid home-bartending enthusiast, David is a screenwriter and media executive by trade. He is married to author Lesley Jacobs Solmonson. David is BarSmarts certified.

Lesley Solmonson
Lesley’s book “Gin: A Global History” (Reaktion) was published in 2012, and she is currently working on “Liqueur: A Global History” (Reaktion). She is the cocktail/wine writer for the LA Weekly and writes for Chilled magazine.  Lesley has written for many other publications, including Wine Enthusiast, Gourmet, and Santa Barbara, and she serves on the Advisory Board of the Museum of the American Cocktail.

Now about the main ingredient in this cocktail, genever, it took David and Lesley about three times to get me to say it like Geneva with an r at the end and I’m still not sure that’s right. What is genever? Well…I’m a gin fan and the Solmonsons are gin fans so the logical step in my cocktail education was to try a gin-like spirit. Enter genever.

As 12 Bottle Bar explains: “…Modern genever is essentially a blend of two distinct spirits. The first is triple or quadruple pot-distilled ‘maltwine’, equal amounts of corn, rye, and malted barley. The second is neutral spirit like that used in London Dry. And then, of course, there are the botanicals, which must include juniper. It’s the use of juniper that has caused many to call genever “gin”; the term “genever” translates quite literally as juniper. Indeed, when genever made its way to America in the mid-1800s, it was often referred to as Holland gin…” Read more here: http://12bottlebar.com/2012/06/bottle-reboot-part-4-genever/

And the cocktail I loved made with Genever this week is:

The Turf Cocktail

2 oz Bols Genever
1 oz Sweet Vermouth
1 dash Angostura Bitters

Add all ingredients to a chilled mixing glass.
Stir with ice and strain into a coupe.
Garnish with a lemon twist.

Contact: drinks@12bottlebar.com

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

Vintage Eve: My Favorite Wines and Cocktails from 2016

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In writing wine and spirit reviews, which include comprehensive tasting notes on appearance, aroma, flavor and sometimes a score, it would be remiss for me not to explain that even when I’m not working on an article I will still employ some of these same methods when drinking wine for pleasure with friends or at a large commercial tasting event. Those wines, sans actual notes, are the ones I want to share today.

2016 Cocktails on the Roof.

Why? Because sometimes we make our buying choices dependent on numerical scores from critics. While that is fine, especially if you have found a critic that has a similar palate as yours (you agree with his scores) it also reduces the time spent trying wines on your own, and finding them not to be enjoyable, which can be costly.

Some pals have also reached out to me, believing they will like what I like, and have asked me to share my favorites. So this article is for them as well. (Please keep in mind these are wines and cocktails I enjoyed in 2016 alone.)

And now, without further adieu:

Remarkable vintage years I did note – so it will be easier if you want to duplicate the experience – I found via my Facebook photographs: 1863 Reserva Velha Barbeito Bual Madeira, 2003 Tramin Cerveny (Czech dessert wine), 2000 Don Melchor Puente Alto Cabernet Sauvignon, 2003 Nicolas Feuillatte Palmes d’Or Brut Champagne, 2004 Robert Mondavi Vine Hill Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012 Chateau de la Gardine Chateauneuf du Pape, 2014 Turley from Howell Mountain, Pesenti Vineyard and Dogtown Vineyard, 2003 Joseph Phelps Insignia and a 2006 Backus, 2015 Trombetta Chardonnay, 2015 J. Lohr White Riesling, 2005 Robert Mondavi Stags Leap Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013 Beckmen Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon and their 2013 Cuvee Le Bec, 2007 Kosta Browne 4-Barrel Pinot Noir, 2013 Beekeeper Zinfandel Rockpile Appellation, 2005 Chateau Canon, 2013 Hearst Pergola Petite Sirah, 2014 Poet’s Leap Riesling, 2012 Concrete Old Vine Zinfandel, 2012 Kynsi Pinot Noir, 2012 Colome Estate Malbec, 2012 Dilecta Unorthodox, 2013 Klinker Brick Old Vine Zinfandel, 2013 Summers Andriana’s Cuvee Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2011 and 2013 Cabernet Franc all from Crocker and Starr.

In general, wines that I enjoyed but didn’t note the various vintage years were from Backus, Insignia, Le Mistral, Syrah, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon (all from Joseph Phelps club membership), Hall Cabernet Sauvignon, every vintage of Phifer Pavitt DateNight Cabernet Sauvignon, various Del Dotto wines, all wines from Stolpman Vineyards, Silver Oak, Carlisle Mourvedre, Pure Cru wines by Mitch Cosentino, non vintage Champagne Jacquart, Pulchella Zinfandel, Stillman Petite Sirah, Regusci Patriarch, Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon, Cakebread Cellars Pinot Noir, Larner Vineyard, Ferrari Trento, Derby Wine Estates, Oso Libre, Frick, Mystic Hills, Calcareous, Workman Ayer Defacto Red Rhone blend, Jaffurs, Epoch Estate, Whalebone, Casa Dumetz, Zaca Mesa, Tercero, Four Brix, Central Coast Group Project (CCGP), Dry Creek Vineyard Zinfandel, Cellardoor Winery Blueberry wine, wines that my local winemakers serve up every year at Sunset in the Vineyard…

Cocktails: Everything I could get my hands on at Cocktails on the Roof, which included these three award winners: Bourbon Bramble from Newhall Refinery, Trader Vics inspired Mai Tai at Salt Creek Grille Valencia and the Manhattan from Olive Terrace Bar and Grill. I also enjoyed: the Manhattan made by 12 Bottle Bar authors Lesley and David Solmonson, Frozen Margaritas, single barrel tequila and Horchata at solita, Bloody Mary at Egg Plantation, Perfect Rob Roy from The Social, Cucumber Soju Cocktail served up by Xevichez Sushi Bar, Black Manhattan at Bacari PDR, a Moscow Mule I made with Cherry Ginger Beer and a Negroni with St George Gin, Bowen’s Whiskey, Black Momma Vodka, whatever I get to taste with the L.A. Scotch Club and a 10 year old Rip Van Winkle Bourbon I nabbed from a pal.

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

Vintage Eve 12/2016: Bib and Tucker Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey and Masterson’s 10-Year-Old Straight Rye Whiskey

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Somebody noticed that I’ve added brown spirits to my “likes” along with all things in the wine department. Maybe it’s because I’m hungry for more single spirit vendors to join us for Cocktails on the Roof 2017 too. Either way, I don’t care! Come along on this ride with me and you may see that it’s just as pleasant to sip and contemplate a fine brown spirit as it is a fine wine. I have two today for review:

Bib and Tucker Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey

Aroma: Wood, sawdust, musk, coconut, sweet cream, vanilla bean, flan dessert; no nose burn.

Flavor: Smoky, sweet, char, raisins, milk, toffee, dark chocolate and with a low to medium burn on the finish.

Conclusion: Really liked this, a nice sipper on its own, very balanced, 94 Eve pts.

About Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey

Named for the finery one would wear for special occasions back in the day, the six-year aged BIB & TUCKER bourbon has a host of antiques, new saddle leather, chamomile-soaked butterscotch drops and warm cinnamon-kissed cedar. If that doesn’t bring up images of Americana, the flavor profile mirrors the nose, urging on that sense of peace, harmony and balance: all the good things you taste and should feel, while sipping a great 92-proof bourbon.

https://www.facebook.com/BandTBourbon/

@bandtbourbon on Instagram

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Masterson’s 10-Year-Old Straight Rye Whiskey

Aroma: Butterscotch hard candy, golden delicious apple, clove, cinnamon stick, brown sugar, brown butter, caramel; no nose burn.

Flavor: Spicy, caramel apple, sharp bite, viscous, a honeyed finish with a medium burn.

Conclusion: Very pleasant, can happily sip alone, 92 Eve pts.

About Masterson’s 10-Year-Old Straight Rye Whiskey

William “Bat” Masterson did it all and did it well. And what better way to honor such a rarefied man than with a truly exceptional whiskey.

https://www.facebook.com/MastersonsWhiskey/

@mastersons on Instagram

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About 3 Badge Mixology

Named after old fire service badges from the Sebastiani family, 3 Badge Beverage Corporation is built upon a philosophy of commitment and craftsmanship. The company is led by 4th-generation vintner, August Sebastiani, out of an old fire station in Sonoma, California – the very same station his grandfather helped build and where his father volunteered. With its strong portfolio of award winning beverages, you’ll be sure to find something you can be proud to serve. After all, our duty is craftsmanship.

http://www.3badge.com/

https://www.facebook.com/3Badge/

@3badgecorp on Instagram

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

2019 Dates – and Some Surprises – for Wine on the Roof and Cocktails on the Roof

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SCV’s Only Roof Top Events Offer Unique Atmosphere For Both Wine and Spirit Lovers to Dine with Wine and Dance with Cocktails! 

SANTA CLARITA VALLEY – The WiSH Education Foundation is once again pleased to announce the dates for their wildly popular rooftop events held on the top of Macy’s parking structure at Westfield Valencia to benefit over 23,000 students in the Hart District: Wine on the Roof…Dine on the Roof will be held on May 16 and the 5th annual Cocktails on the Roof on September 6. Tickets, sponsorship information, “raves”, past and current vendors can all be seen on the Cocktails on the Roof dedicated website: http://cocktailsontheroofscv.org/

What to Expect: In our inaugural 2018 event Wine on the Roof guests were treated to several courses paired with wines in a seated dinner. The venue was not made public prior to the event, and each dish came out with its own menu and pairing card. Chefs and winemakers took to the microphone during the evening to share their inspiration for their own creations. All restaurants brought staff members to the roof, all working seamlessly together. The models from Pinups for American Heroes, a local nonprofit, also served guests at the event in the spirit of the 1940s USO. Local favorite Lance Allyn provided live music.

Wine on the Roof participants, several in their debut, included: The Speakeasy Bakery, Bakers Scott Ervin and Todd Wilson, Newhall Press Room, Chef Trevor; The Old Town Junction, Chef Daniel Otto; Hundred Miles, Chef Louis Pechan; Olive Terrace Bar and Grill, Chef Lucio Teraza and Chef Alfonso Canuto; Bonefish Grill, Culinary Team; Sweet Beams Ice Cream Truck, Karin and Chris Beam; Nothing Bundt Cakes, Jennifer and Zachary Zeidler; Wolf Creek Restaurant, Pastry Chef Meghan Launier, 8. Salt Creek Grille, Pastry Chef Kristina Waggoner and Honu Coffee, Brew master James. Wineries: Byron Blatty Wines, winemakers Steve Lemley and Nate Hasper; Pulchella Winery, winemakers Steve Lemley and Nate Hasper; Hoi Polloi Winery, winemakers Ted Behlendorf, Doug Minnick, Dan Erland Andersen; Pagter Brothers, Scott Page-Pagter winemaker; Parhelion Cellars, winemaker Adam Hasper.

What to Expect: In our 5th Cocktails on the Roof, Eve Bushman and a committee of amazing volunteers and WiSH board members promise to have a surprise or two up their collective sleeves. Our first year was brand new: DJ MAV from SOS Entertainment, guests voting for their favorite cocktails and a Flash Mob of prepared dancers doing “Thriller” for guests. In subsequent years, guests could sponsor private lounges with private service; finally last year we added in a table just for Pulchella Winery as a special nod to their invaluable work in Wine on the Roof. (Cocktails on the Roof focuses on highlighting the cocktail programs from our local restaurants, and several unique single spirit vendors.)

2018 participants included: JFC Int’l, Nealie’s Skillet, Marston’s Restaurant, Honu Coffee, Mammoth Mountain Coffee, Willow Creek Distillery, Indian Affair, Wolf Creek Brewery, Wolf Creek Restaurant, Salt Creek Grille, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Pomp & Whimsy Gin Liqueur, Sweet Beams Ice Cream, Mule 2.0, Lazy Dog Restaurant, SCV Custom Crush Services (Pulchella Winery), Newhall Press Room, LA Scotch Club, Alchemy, Dulce Vida Tequila, Hyatt Regency Valencia, Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ, Sweet T’s Treats, Impex Beverages, The Local Pub, Smokehouse on Main, Claim Jumper, solita, Figenza Mediterranean Fig Vodka and the Joy Squad Photo Experience.

Eve Bushman of Eve’s Wine 101 and Eve Bushman Consulting created these two events and co-hosts along with Amy Daniels, Executive Director of the Wish Education Foundation; Marlee Lauffer, the President of the Henry Newhall Memorial Hospital Foundation; and Alexander Hafizi; of Elite Magazine and the Santa Clarita Magazine. Steve Lemley, the co-owner of Pulchella Winery and SCV Custom Crush Services, is the co-host for Wine on the Roof, curating all of the wineries, working with the winemakers and pairing the menus with Bushman. Last but not least, Jennifer Chadwick, Director of Marketing for Salt Creek Grille; serves as the Wine on the Roof Lead Coordinator in the restaurant Prep Tent. Our tireless committee members also include: Judy Penman, Ed Masterson, Richard Cohn, Jennifer Ramos, Dawn Begley and Mitch Russell.

If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities for either or both of these exciting events, please reach out to Amy Daniels: Wish@HartDistrict.org

Past and Present Sponsors include: Westfield Valencia Town Center, The Magazine of Santa Clarita, Elite Magazine, Littler, California Credit Union, Oasis Associates, Brightview Tree Company, Andy Gump, Burrtec, 24/7 Events, SOS Entertainment, Peterson Printing, Jennifer Ramos Social Conduit, Eve Bushman Consulting, Image 2000, Craig and Lisa Eichman, Team House Real Estate and PinUps for Heroes.

Wine and Spirit Goals for 2019, NOT Just About Drinking

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Thinking that in my ten years of writing about wine and spirits, I must’ve set some goals, written them down and shared them in past articles. Did a quick Google search and found yea, sounds familiar as I did it once, just last year, in the column titled: Why Not Have…Drinking Goals for 2018? And No, it’s not too late to set them!

So I gave my 2018 article a gander, to see how many of my goals were met, to see if I should even attempt goals for 2019. The first goal, to learn about Mezcal, wasn’t a complete failure as I got to taste at least one in 2018. So that goal has a continuance for this year. I also went to more wine bars this year…or maybe I should say visited one wine bar more: Newhall Press Room. So that goal was partially met.

I made it to the Japanese Food and Restaurant Expo again, co-hosted our first Wine on the Roof and fourth Cocktails on the Roof for the WiSH Education Foundation, visited Salt Creek Grille and had wine, attended another Peatin’ Meetin’ organized by the LA Scotch Club and didn’t die…

But I still need my WSET Level 2 in spirits to be offered hands on as online classes are still the only type being offered. So I may have to give in on that goal, bite the bullet and try the online course this year.

Didn’t make it back to Utah or Denver for more spirits, but I did make it to SCOTLAND for plenty of Whisky!

Attended the tastings and classes at the Universal Whisky Experience in Las Vegas – which we plan to attend again this year in April.

So what’s up for 2019:

As the West Ranch Beacon* website shut down earlier this year, removing me from one weekly column commitment after about a decade, I thought I should look around for something new.

I can add more Eve Bushman Consulting Clients – so if you own a bar, restaurant, winery or wine bar and need some marketing ideas email me at Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com. My business partner Michael Perlis and I have been successfully consulting and marketing for our clients for many years now.

Also thinking about trying something new…starting out as a small Brand Ambassador might be a good fit, though I’d need some training as that part of the industry is very new to me. I have plenty of experience with wine and spirits via the numerous events we’ve created and hosted, as well as the many we’ve marketed, and have enough wine and spirit education under my belt to be able to easily learn about a brand that is looking for representation in Santa Clarita Valley, San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles. If you hear of anything email me at Eve@EveWine101.com

So, those these new goals aren’t drinking goals, they all still involve the industry I’ve been involved with for over 10 years. I’m not going anywhere! Regardless of what I may add to my workload to make up for the closure of the West Ranch Beacon, know that Eve Wine 101 and Eve Bushman Consulting will continue as they have for many more years to come.

*If you hadn’t finished reading a particular article of mine on the Beacon, or are looking for my archived articles, please email me: Eve@EveWine101.com. I have all of my articles saved. Those over three years old were shared again, under the title “Vintage Eve” on Tuesdays on https://www.EveWine101.com. Newer articles, including the last three I did in the Scotland series, I can email out as word docs to whoever wants them. These will also be re-purposed on EveWine101 on Tuesdays within the next three years.

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. 

How Was the 4th Cocktails on the Roof?

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Cocktails on the Roof News: Thanks to everyone that bought a ticket, volunteered, signed up as a vendor and participated in the 4th Cocktails on the Roof event held September 7.

The Day After

We are rocking that roof! Photo credit: The Signal newspaper.

Waking up to 71 notifications on Facebook = must have been a great night! Once I cleared those there were 76 new ones! Egads! It only got worse when I uploaded my photos here and here. “We raised nearly $40,000 in three hours and will be focusing on STEAM programs this year” stated Amy Daniels, Executive Director for the WiSH Education Foundation, “With an emphasis on the ARTS.”

Now, to announce the cocktail winners, share some of the raves and thank everyone that helped make our event a success.

Cocktail Winners

First Claim Jumper, Second Place Salt Creek Grille and Third Place went to Solita Tacos.

Raves

Judy: Another fabulous event, thank you for your vision so long ago.

Michelle: We had such a nice time tonight. Thank you Eve for putting together such a fun event. Looking forward to next time.

Eric: Third year in a row for us, and two new attendees we convinced to attend. They said they would be there next year.

Michael: 2muchfun w/someofthebest! Thx WiSH! Epic Evening! Always a great time w/ WiSH

Jason: An incredible event!!

Dawn: Cocktails on the Roof! So much fun seeing lots of friends and enjoying our VIP lounge – thank you Image-2000 and Joe Blatchford!

Tamar: Another fantastic event!!! Thanks Eve and Amy!

Jennifer: Great to see you all! Can’t wait til 2019!

Dana: VIP… oh yeah, the best way to do #cocktailsontheroof! See y’all next year!

Heidi: Our first time at Cocktails on the Roof!! What a fun event!! Met a lot of people I haven’t seen in a long time! Dancing, drinking a lot of cocktails…. thank God for Uber!!!

Jeannie: Fun being with you all!

Cheryl: Congratulations on an amazing event to support our community!

Sue: Excellent! Thanks for all you do for Hart District!

Amanda: Great job last night. The vendors were fabulous!  Such a variety. It was also good to see you and share a moment.

Richard: What a great night.

Josh: Thanks for including us!! We had a blast.

Michael: Great event, as always Eve. You and your team should be very proud!

Alex: Love u eve!! Another amazing event!!

Steve: First off, last night was fantastic and you are to be congratulated, yet again. Truly Eve, that is an amazing civic event and I hope you get a special sense of accomplishment for what you created because it is really something worthwhile, fun and tasty too.

Patti: Great event!!! Good job everyone!!

Maureen: What a great night seeing so many friends for a great cause!

Alex: Another amazing event!

Judy: fabulous event thank you to all the volunteers who took time to help us last night! Lots of fun, drink and fun!!!

Michael: Awesome event. Another great job. So nice to see old friends and sample all the delicious food and drink.

Steve: Great event Amy, Eve, and all!

Stacey: So fun! What a great night with good friends.

Stephanie: It was really fun with great friends and an old boyfriend!

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My goal in sharing the “lists” below is that you will go to the restaurants you enjoyed on our roof and frequent the businesses that chose to sponsor our event:

Pinups for American Heroes

Samantha Wade, Donna Carrion, Mary Bird, Kori Hawk, Kat Soto, Ashley Caldwell and Brittany Sanders.

Sponsors

The Magazine of Santa Clarita, Elite Magazine, Westfield Valencia, Littler, BrightView, California Credit Union, Oasis Associates, Andy Gump, SOS Entertainment, The Signal, SCVTV, Burrtec, Brightview Tree Company, Team House Real Estate, Eve Bushman Consulting, Image 2000, 24/7 Events and SCV Tax. 

Vendors

Salt Creek Grille, Wolf Creek Restaurant and Brewery, Dulce Vida Tequila, Mammoth Coffee Roasting (Espresso Martini), JFC International (sake-based cocktails), Alchemy Valencia, Marston’s Valencia, An Indian Affaire, LA Scotch Club (the only event the club participates in), Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar, Pomp & Whimsy Gin Liqueur, Vines Restaurant and Bar, Willow Creek Distillery (formerly the Distillery at Opolo), The Newhall Press Room, (Moscow) Mule 2.0, Nealie’s Skillet, Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ, Honu Coffee, The Local Pub and Grill, Smokehouse on Main, Impex Beverages (spirit brands), Claim Jumper Restaurant and Saloon, Figenza Fig Vodka, Sweet Beams Ice Cream Truck, Sweet T’s Treats and Nothing Bundt Cakes.

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Committee

From the WiSH Education Foundation board: Amy Daniels, Richard Cohn, Lynne Secrest, Ed Masterson and Judy Penman. From WiSH Advisory Board: Eve Bushman and Marlee Lauffer. From our community: Dawn Begley, Mitch Russell and Jennifer Ramos. (Of special note: Ramos was recruited just weeks before our event and signed up no less than SEVEN restaurants in less than two weeks, warranting a special shout out from me!)

Volunteers

Amy Daniels, Noah Daniels, Josh Daniels, Christi Kessler, Mia Slotsve, Koren Young, Recyl Chapman, Mallany Carver, Whitney Wollin, Dennis Ward, Kathleen McGraw, Kathleen and Allen Marquart, Burt Ceroni, Diane Curtis, John Rogers, Holly Bellamy, Robin Wimsatt, Ellen Hawthorne, Carmel Farnsworth, Eileen Gunning, Judy Penman, Cheryl Gray, Carolyn Lodes, Jen Phelps, Nicole Stinson, Steve Portaro, Danise Davis, Mary Bradway, Taj Ambar, Damien White, Brittany Murrietta, Cindy Kirk, Larry and Christy Grable, Maggie-Mae Laufman, Rochelle and Terry Gallimore, Michael Farnsworth, Jennifer Primero, Talia Stern, Raymond and Cathie Baker, Joelyn and Robert Caprine, Steve Dole, Nicole Feast, Scott Fushi and Rich Daniels.

About WiSH Education Foundation

The WiSH Education Foundation supports the 23,000 students in grades 7-12 of the William S. Hart Union High School District.  We fund programs and initiatives not paid for by tax dollars alone and our goal is to benefit as many students with our dollars as possible, directly in the classroom, where it’s needed most.

WiSH is important to everyone who lives in the Santa Clarita Valley, whether you have a student in our schools or not – great schools help keep our home values strong and educating our young people is vital to our community!

http://wisheducationfoundation.org/

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

Will You Be Left Off the Roof?

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The fourth Cocktails on the Roof is headed our way fast: September 7! We have new vendors joining our existing vendors and a new out-of-the-box idea – a Wine on the Roof table – added to what you have told us you love: DJ MAV from SOS Entertainment and a HUGE dance floor, both cozy private lounges and large public lounges, single spirit vendors and your favorite SCV restaurants sharing cocktail and food pairings, trees to create that “Manhattan” roof top feel and lights to…light it all up just for you!

COTR18 CardHosted by the WiSH Education Foundation, Eve Bushman of Eve’s Wine 101 and Eve Bushman Consulting and Marlee Lauffer, president, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation. A committee of worker bees and many volunteers make the event possible – and remarkable. Also, know that Cocktails on the Roof is a non-profit event that raises money to support over 23k Hart District students in grades 7-12 in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Participants at press time include Salt Creek Grille, Wolf Creek Restaurant and Brewery, Dulce Vida Tequila, Mammoth Coffee Roasting (Espresso Martini), JFC International (sake-based cocktails), Alchemy Valencia, Marston’s Valencia, An Indian Affaire, LA Scotch Club (the only event the club participates in), Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar, Pomp & Whimsy Gin Liqueur, Vines Restaurant and Bar, Willow Creek Distillery (formerly the Distillery at Opolo), The Newhall Press Room, (Moscow) Mule 2.0, Nealie’s Skillet, Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ, Honu Coffee, The Local Pub and Grill, Smokehouse on Main, Impex Beverages (spirit brands), La Cocina Bar and Grill, Claim Jumper Restaurant and Saloon, Figenza Fig Vodka, Sweet Beams Ice Cream Truck, Sweet T’s Treats and Nothing Bundt Cakes.

This year, for the first time and due to high demand, we will be adding a Wine on the Roof table to our Cocktails on the Roof layout. It’s our latest out-of-the-box idea from Eve Bushman! Our generous co-host from Wine on the Roof, local winemaker and winery owner Steve Lemley, will be talking about all of the exciting wines being produced in his facility and showcasing a few of the potential wines that will be part of the Spring 2019 event.

“This WiSH signature event is a perfect opportunity for our community to come together to party with a purpose!” said Amy Daniels, Executive Director, Wish Education Foundation. “This year our focus is STEAM, with an emphasis on the ARTS. Please help us make a difference right in the classroom by buying a ticket to the event, and consider getting your friends together for your very own private lounge!”

We welcome The Magazine of Santa Clarita, Elite Magazine, Littler, Oasis Associates, Andy Gump, SOS Entertainment, The Signal, SCVTV, Burrtec, Brightview Tree Company as current sponsors. Contact Amy Daniels at wish@hartdistrict.org for more sponsorship or lounge rental information.

“As WiSH’s flagship fundraiser, ‘Cocktails’ brings together a unique outdoors rooftop vibe with the chance to sample signature beverages and tastings for a unique local experience” began Richard Cohn, Chair, WiSH Education Foundation. “Coming together as a community for a memorable night out while supporting our schools is a win-win.”

Everyone is a VIP, with tickets only $85 for all you can eat and drink, or come as a Designated Driver and enjoy mocktails and food for $65. All tickets at the door are $95. Either way, let us know about your excitement with #COTR18 on all your social media posts. Tickets –> www.cocktailsontheroofscv.org. Follow the Discussion tab on our Facebook event page for teasers à https://www.facebook.com/events/451575408569251/?active_tab=discussion

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

Get Ready For: Wine on the Roof…Dine on the Roof, a Collaborative Experience (Early Bird Ticket Sales End 4/15)

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Apparently you Santa Claritans and wonderful supporters of local charity have demanded, yes demanded, more than one rooftop event from the people (see below) that have brought you Cocktails on the Roof. Your loud cries for us to keep your glass filled have been heard. We have now added Wine on the Roof to your calendar May 17!

Read on, as it’s definitely not the same kind of rooftop event we’ve ever had in Santa Clarita…

WOTROur Event: The Details From WiSH Executive Director Amy Daniels

The community came out in force for our signature event, Cocktails on the Roof, three sold out years in a row. With encouragement to do a second event during the year, this one with wine as the focus, we teamed up once again with Eve Bushman of Eve’s Wine 101 and Marlee Lauffer, President of the Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation, for Wine on the Roof. This gathering promises to be like nothing else offered in our region.

With beautiful lighting, music, photo opportunities and more, we will welcome our guests to a remarkable, one of a kind special evening that people will not soon forget. This evening promises to be like nothing else offered in our region.

Eve has teamed up with Steve Lemley as our co-host for this unique event. Lemley is a well-respected SCV winemaker that co-owns the SCV Custom Crush Services. Lemley will curate our wines from his local facility that houses over twenty different wineries – most, if not all, will be making their debut that evening – and we will have winemakers seated throughout the venue to allow for interesting and knowledgeable discourse.

Wine on the Roof has a distinctive layout to allow for camaraderie and conversation and you will be treated to a multi-course dinner. Because this is seated dining, a limited number of tickets are available. The event is open from 6-10pm and ticket pricing is set at $125pp or 2/$200. Please note that after April 15th, ticket pricing will be $150 or 2/$275. More information is available and tickets can be purchased at www.WiSHscv.org.

Collaborators: Winemakers, Chefs, and Restaurants

As we are just putting together our puzzle pieces of which chefs wants to provide which course, Steve and I will be tasting wines with them – if they like – in an effort to help with the food pairing. So far we will have Chef Daniel Otto’s debut from his soon to open restaurant, Chef Lucio Teraza of Olive Terrace Bar and Grill, Chef Ignacio “Nacho” Munoz and Pastry Chef Kristina Waggoner of Salt Creek Grille, Chef Louis Pechan of Hundred Miles LA, the Culinary Team at Bonefish Grill, Chef Trevor of the Newhall Press Room, Pastry Chef Meghan Launier of Wolf Creek Restaurant and Brewing Company, the baristas of Honu Coffee, the sweet makers from Nothing Bundt Cakes and the Beams of Sweat Beams Ice Cream.

We will definitely be starting our evening with appetizers, then bread from the one and only infamous Speakeasy Bakery, mains, dessert – all with wines from winemakers exclusive to Pulchella Winery. Santa Clarita winemakers at press time include Steve Lemley, Nate Hasper, Mark Blatty, Scott Page-Pagter, Doug Minnick, Ted Behlendorf and Dan Erland Andersen.

Your Rooftop Team: Dreamers and Worker Bees

Besides the names of our co-hosts listed above this event is orchestrated by countless volunteers (thank you) and an energetic committee that sometimes takes up two dining room tables at my house: Ed Masterson, Richard Cohn, Alex Hafizi, Lynne Secrest, Judy Penman, Lisa Holt, Mitch Russell and Dawn Begley.

Sponsorships: Many Ways to Support the WiSH Education Foundation

ROSE – Exclusive (1) $15,000: SIX tickets and first mention in all press releases and social media marketing; we will promote you prominently as the PRESENTER of the event on event signage; listing on website as Presenter; mention in print advertising.

VIOGNIER $10,000: FOUR tickets and mention in all press releases and social media marketing; we will promote you on event signage; listing on website; listed on print advertising. Email marketing included to approximately 35,000 emails.

CABERNET $5,000: FOUR tickets and mention in all press releases and social media marketing; we will promote you on event signage; listing on website. Email marketing included to approximately 35,000 emails.

ZINFANDEL $2,500: TWO event tickets and mention in all press releases and social media marketing; we will promote you on event signage; listing on website. Email marketing included to approximately 35,000 emails.

PINOT NOIR $1,500: TWO event tickets and mention in all press releases and social media marketing; listing on website. Email marketing included to approximately 35,000 emails.

Please contact Exec. Dir. Amy Daniels: wish@hartdistrict.org for current sponsorship opportunities.

Details: Early Bird Tickets and Sponsorships Now Available

Tickets go up in price after April 15th so get them now – only 200 will be sold!

Information and tickets: http://wisheducationfoundation.org/wine-under-the-stars/

Facebook event page has updated info and has a very interactive “discussion” tab: https://www.facebook.com/events/533629337011873/

Save the date: Cocktails on the Roof 9/7.

About: The WiSH Education Foundation

“WiSH was founded in 2011 by parents and partners of the community to directly support the students and staff of the William S. Hart school district and are a designated 501c(3) non-profit foundation.

WiSH raises critically needed funds to directly support students and educators in our District…money for much-needed technology, special education and technical programs, materials, books, software, musical instruments & calculators, just to name some recent initiatives. We’re not funded by any local, state or federal agencies and rely on contributions, grants and sponsorships to bridge the ever-widening gap of student’s needs directly in classrooms…” read more here.

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