Eve's Wine 101

Union des Grands Crus Bordeaux 2022 Tasting Event: The New 2019 Vintage

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Not sure how many of the “130 Castles in the Union” of Bordeaux Eddie and I tasted at the Union des Grands Crus Bordeaux 2022 tasting event, but taste we did! We go to this preview of newly released Bordeaux wines every year – we missed a couple as everyone did when events went on hiatus through Covid – so we were thrilled to attend this latest event.

The preview event we attended was filled with sommeliers, journalists, and restaurant and wine shop owners – as it has been in the past – so it was nice to reconnect with many of my peers after such a “dry spell”. We were also blessed with seeing some of the same winery representatives across the table we hadn’t seen in a while – and some Chateau owners too!


Again, as it’s been a couple of years, everyone just seemed so relieved to finally meet again over fine wine that came across the ocean to be shared. (The evening’s event, open to the public, would be filled with wine lovers, aficionados and collectors.)

Appellations represented include Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, Pauillac, Sauternes and Barsac, Pessac-Leognan, Graves, Pomerol, Listrac-Medoc, Moulis-en-Medoc, Haut-Medoc, Medoc, Margaux, Saint-Julien and Saint-Estephe. There was enough wine to fill two rooms of excited tasters.

You can see the story in my public photos here or read on. We appreciated everything we sampled! In general, I felt that many of the 2019s were good to drink now and didn’t necessarily require a lot of aging, the blends were well done, there was a buzz about the Merlots and the Cab-based Bordeaux from Pauillac.

Again, and just in general, some of the reds were dark, tannic and brooding while others were fresh and lively which to me means there was a lot to appreciate no matter what blends you normally lean towards.


The whites – Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Sauternes that I enjoyed – benefitted from great fresh fruit and winemaking skills. I enjoyed almost every single one I sampled.

Though we didn’t come close to tasting everything, we would recommend that you seek out these stellar 2019: Chateau Lynch Bages, Chateau Phelan Segur, Chateau de Chantegrive, Chateau Beau-Sejour Becot, Chateau Leoville Barton, Chateau Leoville Poyferre, Chateau Gloria, Chateau Fonreaud, Chateau Dauzac, Chateau Talbot, Chateau Rauzan Gassies, Chateau Croizet Bages, Chateau Prieure Lichine, Chateau Gazin, Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte, Chateau Pavie Macquin, Chateau Clinet, Chateau La Tour Figeac, Chateau Grand Mayne, Chateau Pape-Clement, Chateau Latour-Martillac, Chateau Grand-Puy Ducasse, Domaine de Chevalier, Chateau Haut-Bergey, Chateau Pichon-Longueville Baron, Chateau Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, Chateau Larrivet Haut Brion, Chateau Bouscaut, Chateau Clos Haut-Peyraguey, Chateau Doisy Daene and Chateau Sigalas-Rabaud.

A complete list of the UGC members can be seen here: https://www.ugcb.net/en/members

Keep up with UGC news and events here: https://www.ugcb.net/en/home

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

Perlises Pick: Grand Cru Custom Crush

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Custom crushes provide vital resources to boutique winemakers who don’t have their own winery facilities yet desire to have access to state of the art equipment and support. Grand Cru Custom Crush in Windsor, California takes this one step further by enabling their client wineries to offer their customers an opportunity for an amazing tasting experience.

Recently, we had the opportunity to visit with Nicole Yasinsac, Grand Cru’s Hospitality and Events Director. She gave us a tour of Grand Cru as well as providing tastes of a selection of their clients’ wines, all while sharing the story of the facility.

Robert Morris, former president of Punchdown Cellars in Santa Rosa (which was formerly Copain Custom Crush) and his wife Erin teamed up with Erin Brooks and Todd Gottula of Ernest Vineyards to open Grand Cru in 2017. The building design was inspired by the historic Boradorri Garage in Cayucos, with other touches paying homage to Robert being a reserve firefighter for the city of Healdsburg.

The production facility is 30,000 square feet with a capability of producing about 25,000 total cases annually. Winery clients are varied, which helps to ensure different picking and production schedules. Besides barrels, concrete eggs, sandstone amphorae and urns are also available, as are crush pads and bottling, as well as a lab.

We’ve been to custom crushes where tasting with the winemaker can be somewhat of an adventure, maybe just one step away from an OSHA report. The tasting salons at Grand Cru are stylish, with the bay doors available to be open to allow for as much fresh air as one would want. Gabriel Glas wine glasses help to maintain the elegance.

And the wines are no slouches either. Nicole guided us through a tasting of the following –

Edaphos by Ernest:  2021 Picpoul from Lodi’s Prie Vineyard.  Ernest Winery is owned by Todd and Erin Gottula, co-owners of Grand Cru and is named after Todd’s grandfather Ernest.  The Edaphos label focuses on small lots of lesser known grape varietals. The wine was subtle with an impression of a hint of sweetness and bright light citrus and a lengthy finish.

Ernest: 2019 Aligote from the Henry David Vineyard in Bennett Valley. The “other” white Burgundy, somewhat similar to Chardonnay.  Light with some grassy notes and hints of arugula.

Bucher: 2021 Sauvignon Blanc from the Bucher Estate vineyard in the Russian River Valley. The Buchers added vineyards to their 360 acre dairy farm starting in 1997. The wine was fresh and bright with tropical notes. Very classic Sauvignon Blanc.

Black Kite: 2018 Pinot Noir from the Gap’s Crown Vineyard on the Sonoma Coast.  The co-founders are Tom and Rebecca Birdsall along with Rebecca’s parents, Donald and Maureen Green. The label named after Rebecca’s father favorite bird.  Notes of dark cherry and a pleasing light finish, smooth and silky on palate.

Terminim: 2018 Syrah from the Alder Springs Vineyard in Mendocino. This is a collaboration between François Villard of France’s Northern Rhone Valley and Donald Patz of Patz and Hall Winery in Sonoma fame. Very dark and rich with black olive notes. Delicious wine. 

Saxon Brown: 2017 Zinfandel, Stonewall Block, Sonoma County. Owner/winemaker Jeff Gaffner was with Chateau St Jean and started Saxon Brown in 1997.  Dense style but not overpowering, lush ripe fruit with lavender notes.

We want to thank Nicole so much for spending time with us. Please visit Grand Cru Custom Crush on your next visit to the Santa Rosa/Windsor/Healdsburg area.  It is a great multi-brand experience of the outstanding wines made at the facility – private, personal, relaxed and intimate, showcasing many varietals and AVAs.

Grand Cru Custom Crush

www.grandcrucustomcrush.com

1200 American Way, Windsor, CA 95492Michael and Karen Perlis have been pursuing their passion for wine for more than 30 years. They have had the good fortune of having numerous mentors to show them the way and after a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting wineries and vineyards, and tasting as much wine as they possibly could, they had the amazing luck to meet Eve Bushman. Michael and Karen do their best to bring as much information as possible about wine to Eve’s Wine 101 faithful readers.

Two New International Events: Symposium and WOW! Meetings

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After the success of Wine Paris and Vinexpo Paris in February, and Vinexpo America and Drinks America in March – three events that marked the resumption of large-scale in-person events attracting trade members from across the globe – Vinexposium continues to forge ahead with preparations for new events in Bordeaux. From 20 to 23 June, Vinexposium will organize 2 new international events for wine and spirits professionals within the Bordeaux Wine Week: the Symposium « Act for Change » and the WOW! Meetings. Both events, which will comprise large panel discussions and business meetings, will provide the industry with practical solutions for short and medium-term changes to vineyard management and sales techniques.

From Thursday 16 to Sunday 26 June 2022, life in the city of Bordeaux will revolve around a broad-ranging raft of events with several highlights that will form the backbone of Bordeaux Wine Week: the Bordeaux Wine Festival, the Bordeaux Grands Crus Week-End, the ‘Picasso, the effervescence of shapes’ exhibition, the ‘Act for Change’ Symposium and the WOW! Meetings.

As part of this innovative schedule, Vinexposium will host two events focusing on the future of the industry for wine and spirits professionals.

The ‘Act for Change’ Symposium on 20 and 21 June at the Cité du vin.

The two-day event is set within a broader context and will question the role and commitment of the wine and spirits industry to the far-reaching agenda of the United Nations and COP 26.

A robust, engaging programme will allow experts and industry members to take the floor and decipher major developments to come and their impact on wine and spirits production and distribution by 2030.

The first day of the Symposium will focus on deciphering key forthcoming changes centring on 3 major aspects that will continue to have a decisive influence on the industry in years to come: changes in consumption and consumers; climate change; and geopolitical tensions. The second day will address the role of innovation in transforming vineyard and winery practices and the revolution in wine and spirits distribution in tomorrow’s world, based on the previous day’s conclusions. The main themes that will tackled will include:

  • Changing consumer patterns: what taste and story will appeal to consumers in 2030?Which back story on the label will capture the consumers’ interest in 2030? What production guarantees will they demand? Aroma and flavour profile, endorsements and packaging will all be criteria that need deciphering. Change is afoot and the first panel discussion – moderated by Jane Anson, founder of janeanson.com – will examine this multi-dimensional issue through the lens of the 2030 consumer.
  • What are the consequences of climate change for winegrowing?
    From frost and drought to early harvests and small crops, winegrowers are on the front line of climate change. A plethora of specialist resources and consultants have emerged in recent years but what are the priorities and how can we help growers identify them and anticipate the future? This impactful theme, moderated by journalist Tamlyn Currin MW, will be discussed with a panel of stakeholders involved in research and noteworthy initiatives in the industry across the globe.
  • Production and agro-ecology: what innovations can we expect in the future?
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         Responsible production is one of the priorities identified by the 2030 Agenda and has become a growing concern for many consumers. What changes should be incorporated into tomorrow’s viticulture, how can we help producers identify good practices and what role should the authorities play? This panel discussion will be moderated by consultant and author Rupert Joy and will bring together a panel of winegrowers from a number of French and international wine and spirits regions alongside experts in technological and digital innovation as well as political figures.
  • E-commerce or ultra-local: how will wine and spirits be distributed in 2030?
    Globalisation, e-commerce, the rise in prices and decarbonisation of the supply chain, price transparency on the Internet, a plethora of information for the consumer… How can and should producers and marketers reinvent themselves to adapt to and benefit from current trends? This panel discussion, moderated by Drinks Business editor-in-chief Patrick Schmitt, will round off the Symposium with a panel specialising in wine and spirits distribution and communications with tomorrow’s consumer.

The WOW! Meetings on 22 and 23 June at Hangar 14.

The production and consumption of certified wines is constantly growing. Vineyard area now covers more than 400,000 hectares worldwide, 78% of them located in Europe.

In response to this strong trend, Vinexposium will be hosting the first trade event entirely dedicated to environmentally certified wines and spirits in a rigorous B-to-B format.

100% business-focused, the event will welcome French and international buyers who plan to purchase certified wines and spirits (*) and have come to source new listings by producers and trading companies that work in this market segment. The aim is to support exponential development of the products worldwide.

Every effort will be made to promote quality relationships in a setting conducive to both business and conviviality, where a cap will intentionally be placed on the number of participants. Consequently, exhibitors will be selected based on stringent specifications and will be able to meet buyers who have confirmed their purchasing intentions prior to the event through a schedule of pre-arranged, qualified meetings.

Thanks to support from the Bordeaux city council, the Bordeaux conurbation authorities, the New Aquitaine regional council, the Bordeaux wine marketing council, the Cité du Vin and Bordeaux Gironde Chamber of Commerce and Industry, these two events will take place as part of BORDEAUX WINE WEEK.

(*) Due to the range of environmental schemes implemented internationally, the organisers will focus on taking into account certifications in each country for 4 types of farming: Sustainable (starting from level 2 certification); Organic; Biodynamic and Natural. Producers who would like to take part in the WOW! Meetings must systematically provide their certificates and conversion schemes.

About VINEXPOSIUM

Vinexposium is the world’s leading organizer of wine and spirits trade events with a portfolio of iconic and recognized events and digital solutions available 365 days a year on Vinexposium Connect.

Duke Spirits, Committed to Philanthropy in the Spirit of John Wayne, Introduces New Grand Cru Tequilas to Reserve Line-up

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NEWPORT BEACH, CALIF. (PRWEB) – Duke Spirits is riding high with a new Grand Cru tequila release and a wave of popularity for the legend behind the label: John Wayne, affectionately known as “The Duke.

” Duke Spirits, makers of Duke Grand Cru Bourbon and Rye Reserves, worked with son Ethan Wayne to craft Duke Spirits Grand Cru Tequila, three new ultra-premium single estate tequilas from the highlands of Jalisco. Duke Tequila is launching with a $50,000 donation and will donate a portion of all proceeds to the John Wayne Cancer Foundation.

Made at an historic distillery in Jalisco, Mexico, the new limited-edition Duke Grand Cru Tequila collection was finished in the same French oak wine barrels used to finish Duke Grand Cru Whiskeys, creating a unique and exquisite flavor profile inspired by John Wayne’s personal memoirs, recipes and spirits collection. Duke Grand Cru Founders Reserve Reposado, Extra Añejo, and six-year-old Commemorative Extra Añejo Limited Edition, commemorate John Wayne’s love for Mexico, his connection to the land and his pursuit of the perfect tequila.

“It is an honor to launch Duke Tequila and share part of his story with consumers throughout the United States,” said Chris Radomski, Founder of Duke Spirits. “John Wayne loved authentic spirits, and spent many years on location in Mexico, developing a profound love for its people and culture. He gave back to so many in his lifetime and we are proud to support his family’s living legacy with the John Wayne Cancer Foundation.”

Duke Spirits is connecting with consumers nationwide through a series of TV spots. Son Ethan Wayne discovered his father’s lost memoirs, liquor collection and special blends sealed since 1979.

The Duke was often quoted as saying that if he was going to have a drink, “it had better be a good one.

” Together with Duke Spirits’ Founder Chris Radomski, Wayne reveals the personal stories that inspired the family.

Click here to view Duke Spirits on Fox Business and Fox News.

The new limited-edition Duke Grand Cru Tequila collection includes Duke Grand Cru Founders Reserve Reposado (SRP: $64.99), Extra Añejo (SRP: $149.99), and six-year-old Commemorative Extra Añejo Limited Edition (SRP: $249.99). Visit Duke Spirits website and connect with us for interviews and more information.

New Wines for the Jewish New Year

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Bayonne, NJ – There’s little time to catch your breath between summer and the High Holiday season this year.
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With Labor Day and Rosh Hashana sharing the same date on the calendar, it’s not too soon to start thinking about festive meals, gatherings with loved ones, and other traditions that go hand-in-hand with the fall Jewish holidays.

Fortunately, we’ve had another exceptional year for kosher wine production. That means there’s an excellent selection of exciting releases to choose from – and one less thing to worry about. They’re ready to serve now, so whether you’re planning to host a crowd or be a guest, you’re sure to find something deliciously suitable for the holiday table.

Wine expert Gabriel Geller, Director of PR and Manager of Wine Education for Kedem/Royal Wine, has recommendations for wines that offer quality and value across all price points.

Herzog Wine Cellars celebrates the new Jewish year with its first release of the Herzog Limited Edition Chalk Hill Chardonnay 2020 (MSRP: $60). This rich and complex white wine is the result of careful harvest planning and skillful winemaking, led by Head Winemaker Joe Hurliman. The 2020 harvest in California was marked by some of the worst wildfires the Golden State has ever known. However, thanks to Divine Providence the harvest for the Chalk Hill Chardonnay took place before the fires, and yielded fruit of the highest quality.

Geller is also enthusiastic about Herzog Special Reserve Méthode Champenoise Russian River NV (MSRP $60), Herzog’s first-ever high-end Champagne method sparkling wine, is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes grown in Sonoma’s Russian River area.

He also points to Château Malartic Lagravière Blanc 2019 (MSRP $100), the first kosher cuvée release by the Bordeaux estate. Malartic received elite Grand Cru Classé status for both its red and white wines in the 1959 Classification of Vins de Graves. Now owned by the Bonnie family, Malartic has produced several kosher cuvées of its red Grand Vin in collaboration with Royal Wine since 2003. Its sister property, Château Gazin Rocquencourt, started making kosher runs in 2015.

Another exciting release is Razi’el Syrah-Carignan 2018 (MSRP $65), says Geller. Razi’el wines scored 97 points by acclaimed wine critic James Suckling – the highest rating ever for Israeli wines. Meanwhile, Europe’s first fully kosher winery, Terra di Seta in Italy, received an unprecedented 97 points and a platinum medal from Decanter magazine for the Terra di Seta Chianti Classico Riserva 2016 (MSRP $35).

While many of this year’s newcomers are produced by classic, old-world methods, some intriguing surprises are in the mix. They include Nana Estate wines (MSRP $30-$50), grown and produced in Israel’s scorching, nutrient-poor Negev Desert. Nana earned widespread buzz even before their wines were available in the U.S.; with their innovative viticulture techniques, they’ve not only beaten the odds, but they’ve crafted a collection of distinctive and popular kosher wines.

Baron Herzog, the entry-level line of value wines from Herzog Wine Cellars retailing between $10-13, are now available with fresh, new labels. Baron Herzog wines were first launched in 1986, following the winery’s establishment in California in 1985. The elegant and classy packaging further emphasizes the care and attention the Herzog family crafts each and every wine they produce from top to bottom.
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  The Baron Herzog line includes an award-winning Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, a Rosé, White Zinfandel, Pinot Grigio, Old Vines Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a red blend called Aleph. Several of the wines are grown in the Herzog’s estate Prince Vineyard in Clarksburg CA, as well as from Paso Robles AVA.

Then there’s Bartenura Froscato cocktail pops (MSRP $25 per package of 12). Bartenura is no stranger to bending the rules. After introducing the wildly popular Moscato in blue cans last year, the Italian kosher producer has now released refreshing Moscato frozen wine cocktail pops. Perfect for the warmer high holiday season. 

About Royal Wine/Kedem

Founded in 1848, Royal Wine Corp. is owned and operated in the United States by the Herzog family, whose winemaking roots go back eight generations to its origin in Czechoslovakia.

Today, Royal Wine’s portfolio of domestic and international wines range from traditional wine producing regions of France, Italy and Spain, as well as Israel, New Zealand and Argentina.

Additionally, Royal Wine Corp.’s spirit and liqueur portfolio offers some of the most sought-after scotches, bourbons, tequilas and vodkas as well as hard to find specialty items such as flavored brandies and liqueurs.

The company owns and operates the Kedem Winery in upstate New York, as well as Herzog Wine Cellars in Oxnard, California, a state-of-the-art-facility featuring guided wine tours, a fully staffed modern tasting room, gift shop and catering facilities. Additionally, the winery houses the award-winning restaurant Tierra Sur, serving the finest, Mediterranean-inspired, contemporary Californian Cuisine. Follow Royal Wine Corp at @royalwinecorp and on FB https://www.facebook.com/RoyalWineCorp

Vintage Eve Circa Feb. 2018: Tasting the 2015 Vintage From Union Des Grands Crus de Bordeaux

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The Beverly Hills Hotel was a perfect backdrop for a tasting of the latest Bordeaux, the release of the 2015 vintage. The chandelier that hung over the center of the room was dimmed only by the stellar wines served below it. Grateful to have a chance to taste through so many wines I quickly took up the task. These are my takeaways:

Reasonably Priced for All

While most Grand Crus Bordeaux can easily warrant a triple digit price tag, there were several that had very reasonable price points, making Bordeaux accessible to everyone. I ran into local winemaker Roman Weiser and then later, million-dollar-palate owner Mark Newman, who both commented on the fact. So if you are holding back on getting some Bordeaux – stop.

Bordeaux We Liked – And We Couldn’t Taste Them All

I have four grids of photos below showing at least 30+ wines that I found remarkable, but there were many more that we didn’t have the time to taste in our generous three-hour window allocated for press before the evening’s public tasting. Some of the standouts for me included:

Chateau Leoville Poyferre poured by Anne Cuvelier once again, Chateau Langoa Barton, Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion, Chateau de Chantegrive, Chateau LaGrange, Chateau Gruad Larose, Domaine de Chevalier, Chateau Pichon Baron, Chateau Smith Havt Lafitte, Chateau de France, Chateau Larrivet Haut-Brion, Chateau Pape Clement, Chateau Latour-Martillac, Chateau Pichon Longueville, Chateau Lynch Bages, Chateau Gazin, Chateau Coufran, Chateau Brane-Cantenac and Chateau Dauzac.

White Bordeaux we enjoyed were from Chateau de France, Chateau Smith Havt Lafitte, Chateau Larrivet Haut-Brion, Chateau Pape Clement, Chateau Malartic-Largraviere, Chateau Brane-Cantenac, Chateau Dauzac and Chateau Latour-Martillac. My takeaway on the White Bordeaux, most made with Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, was that these seemed so much fresher and less acidic than our version of Sauvignon Blanc. (I commented on this to Weiser and he told me that even if we were to add Semillon to our Sauvignon Blanc stateside we still lacked the terroir to make it the way the French have mastered it.)

Every Sauterne poured may have made our list: Chateau Suduiraut, Chateau Lafaurie-Peyraguey, Chateau De Fargues, Chateau Guiraud, Chateau Clos Haut-Peyraguey and Chateau Coutet. My takeaway: The Sauternes stole the show again. Look for these in splits and enjoy liked we did: with a large hunk of sharp blue cheese.

About Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux

Established in 1973, the Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux is a group of 135 top Châteaux in the most prized appellations in the Gironde, Médoc, Graves, Pessac-Léognan, Sauternes and Barsac, Saint Émilion and Pomerol.

MEMBERS OF THE UNION DES  GRANDS CRUS DE BORDEAUX

GRAVES  Château de Chantegrive | Château Ferrande | Château Rahoul  PESSAC – LÉOGNAN  Château Bouscaut | Château Carbonnieux | Château Les Carmes Haut – Brion | Domaine de Chevalier | Château de Fieuzal | Château de France | Château Haut – Bailly | Château Haut – Bergey | Château Larrivet Haut – Brion | Château Latour – Martillac | Château La Louvière | Château Malartic – Lagravière | Château Olivier | Château Pape Clément | Château Picque Caillou | Château Smith Haut Lafitte  SAINT – EMILION GRAND CRU  Château Cheval Blanc | Château Balestard La Tonnelle | Château Beau – Séjour Bécot | Château Berliquet | Château Canon | Château Canon – La – Gaffelière | Château Cap de Mourlin | Château La Couspaude | Château Dassault | Château La Dominique | Château – Figeac | Clos Fourtet | Château Franc Mayne | Château La Gaffelière | Château Grand Mayne | Château Larcis Ducasse | Château Larmande | Château Pavie | Château Pavie Macquin | Château Soutard | Château La Tour Figeac | Château Troplong Mondot | Château Trotte Vieille | Château Valandraud | Château Villemaurine  POMEROL  Château Beauregard | Château Le Bon Pasteur | Château La Cabanne | Château Clinet | Château La Conseillante | Château La Croix de Gay | Château L’ Évangile | Château Gazin | Château Petit – Village | Château La Pointe | Château Rouget  LISTRAC – MÉDOC  Château Clarke | Château Fonréaud | Château Fourcas Dupré | Château Fourcas Hosten  MOULIS – EN – MÉDOC  Château Chasse – Spleen | Château Maucaillou | Château Poujeaux  HAUT – MÉDOC   Château Beaumont | Château Belgrave | Château de Camensac | Château Cantemerle | Château Citran | Château Coufran | Château La Lagune | Château de Lamarque | Château La Tour Carnet  MÉDOC Château La Tour de By  MARGAUX  Château Angludet | Château Brane – Cantenac | Château Cantenac Brown | Château Dauzac | Château Desmirail | Château Durfort – Vivens | Château Ferrière | Château Giscours | Château Kirwan | Château Labégorce | Château Lascombes | Château Malescot Saint-Exupéry | Château Marquis de Terme | Château Monbrison | Château Prieuré – Lichine | Château Rauzan – Gassies | Château Rauzan – Ségla | Château Siran | Château du Tertre  SAINT – JULIEN  Château Beychevelle | Château Branaire – Ducru | Château Gloria | Château Gruaud Larose | Château Lagrange | Château Langoa Barton | Château Léoville Barton | Château Léoville Poyferré | Château Saint – Pierre | Château Talbot  PAUILLAC  Château Mouton Rothschild | Château d’ Armailhac | Château Batailley | Château Clerc Milon | Château Croizet – Bages | Château Grand – Puy Ducasse | Château Grand – Puy – Lacoste | Château Haut – Bages Libéral | Château Lynch – Bages | Château Lynch – Moussas | Château Pichon Baron | Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande  SAINT – ESTÈPHE  Château Cos Labory | Château Lafon – Rochet | Château Ormes De Pez | Château de Pez | Château Phélan Ségur  SAUTERNES & BARSAC   Château d’ Yquem | Château Bastor – Lamontagne | Château Broustet | Château Climens | Château Coutet | Château Doisy Daëne | Château Doisy – Védrines | Château de Fargues | Château Guiraud | Clos Haut – Peyraguey | Château Lafaurie – Peyraguey | Château de Malle | Château Nairac | Château de Rayne Vigneau | Château Sigalas Rabaud | Château Suduiraut | Château La Tour Blanche

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.

Tasting Single-Vineyard Pinot Noir With Winemaker Theresa Heredia of Gary Farrell Wines

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Tickled to have an opportunity to taste wines with a winemaker – via Zoom – after such a long dry Covid-induced period! And it would be a favorite winery of many pals – Gary Farrell Vineyards and Winery – whose website says they’re “A Grand Cru of the Russian River Valley for more than three decades, (producing) wines of balance, elegance and pure varietal expression.” Well, I would be putting the varietal expression to test with seven of their single vineyard Pinot Noirs. 

Introduction

I’d like to invite you to a special tasting we are organizing with Gary Farrell winemaker Theresa Heredia, via Zoom, that explores the depth and breadth of Gary Farrell Pinot Noir for a small group of media. She will lead a tasting of her single-vineyard Pinot Noirs that includes bottlings from long-time Gary Farrell growers such as Hallberg and Toboni and more recent vineyard additions such as Gap’s Crown, Martaella and Fort Ross. The tasting will be 7 wines total, which we would send you in advance. She will provide background on each vineyard and will discuss her approach to making each wine, which is tailored to the vineyard and focuses on achieving bright, vibrant aromas, intense yet supple flavors, and the winery’s signature balance and purity of varietal expression. And, of course, she will welcome questions and discussion.

What We Learned

Did a little advance googling to learn a bit about the winery and Heredia in advance of the zoom presentation. I learned that the majority of the newly released 2017s are for members only and that they have an “Inspiration” series that offers a one-time released wine to members only as well. Most of their wine is available at the winery and online, some may be found in restaurants and a few retail outlets.

They were named one of the top 100 wineries in the October 2019 issue of Wine and Spirits Magazine, one of the Top 50 producers in Wine Spectator’s June 2020 issue and their recent 2017 Fort Ross Pinot was awarded 95 points by Wine Spectator. Prince of Pinot named them the 2016 Vineyard of the Year.

Heredia began her tenure with Gary Farrell in May 2012, after working as the winemaker for Joseph Phelps Vineyard’s Freestone label. The San Francisco Chronicle named her the 2012 Winemaker to Watch.

From Heredia we learned that most of her wines are made with whole clusters, they have less alcohol, she likes skins on, ferments all separately, and a light toast to her barrels – that is her influence showing. What is Heredia most proud of: Her 2017 vintage, including two more vineyards she picked up in Lompoc. What is her favorite Pinot vineyard: Fort Ross, it reminds her of Burgundy, as does the Martaella vineyard.

The winery makes 12 to 14 Pinots, and though they also make a Rose, Sauvignon Blanc, and others, their focus is Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. 

The Wines (Tasting notes were provided and discussed. I put the ones I agreed with in bold.)

2016 Bien Nacido Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley

Heredia called this wine a “sexy spice box” and I agreed with finding pomegranate, dried stems and anise. WE 95, WS 89, $70 https://shop.garyfarrellwinery.com/product/2016-PINOT-NOIR-BIEN-NACIDO

 

2016 Fort Ross Vineyard Pinot Noir, Fort Ross-Seaview

Heredia used more whole cluster grapes in this wine and the area is known for being foggy and cooler, which produces a darker wine. One pal noted it as “bright and cheerful” and I did find the wine earthy, savory, with tea, blackberry and strong tannins. $75, 94 WE

https://shop.garyfarrellwinery.com/product/2016-PINOT-NOIR-FORT-ROSS

 

2016 Hallberg Dijon Clones Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley (Green Valley)

Savory again, lots of black tea, and noted a beautiful color. 94 Pinot File, $60, https://shop.garyfarrellwinery.com/product/2016-PINOT-NOIR-HALLBERG-DIJON

 

2016 Hallberg Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley (Green Valley)

Clones in this wine included 667, 772 and 828. It had aromas reminiscent of dark cherries, cola and dried mushrooms. wine.com 54.99, RP 92, WS 92

 

2016 Martaella Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley

These last three wines Heredia said showed more concentration and are structure-driven. Lots of red to black fruit, sweet cedar and plenty of tannins. 94 WE, $65 https://shop.garyfarrellwinery.com/product/2016-PINOT-NOIR-MARTAELLA

 

2016 Toboni Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley

Clones 115, 667 and 777 were used in the wine. Lots of vanilla bean, with the expected cherry, in this one. Ed’s favorite. 93 WS, $55 https://shop.garyfarrellwinery.com/product/2016-PINOT-NOIR-TOBONI

 

2016 Gap’s Crown Vineyard Pinot Noir, Petaluma Gap

A crowd pleaser, this one went well with a Pork Wellington Eddie made for dinner. We loved the nose of cherries, cola and that nice savory quality we kept finding in the wines. Heredia said it could age five or more years. 94 WE, $80 https://shop.garyfarrellwinery.com/product/2016-PINOT-NOIR-GAP-S-CROWN

 

Contact information and links

https://www.garyfarrellwinery.com/

https://www.facebook.com/Gary.Farrell.Winery/

707-473-2909 Concierge@GaryFarrellWinery.com

 

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

Bordeaux En Primeurs Week Canceled but Château Malescasse Maintains Efforts to Achieve High Standards

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BORDEAUX, FRANCE (PRWEB) – Despite the cumulation of the COVID-19 pandemic and the cancelation of the En Primeurs Week, Château Malescasse is continuing to focus on producing wine that earned the estate a “Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel” classification, propelling the domaine at the forefront of the Médoc’s most highly regarded properties.

The Crus Bourgeois du Médoc appellation announced a new three-tier classification system earlier this year and among 249 châteaux classified Crus Bourgeois, “Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel” has only been awarded to 14 selected properties. The “Exceptionnel ” level of the new classification requires quality standards and sustainable practices and the following of strict guidelines with technical procedures applied to the vineyard, the harvest method, bottling and quality assurance. Furthermore, the promotion of the wines is evaluated; from the presentation of the site and tourism offerings to distribution and international activities.

Over the past seven years, Château Malescasse has undergone a revolution; with changes to processes in the vineyard, winemaking practices as well as marketing efforts which contributed to earning this elite classification.

“We couldn’t be more proud of this distinction, it is the result of many years of dedicated work and a strong team effort. It is an honor to be recognized as one of the top properties in the Médoc,” said Alban Cacaret, Managing Director of Château Malescasse.

The vineyards were restructured in terms of soil, rootstock, clone and planting density, to operate in the same vein as the neighbouring Grands Crus Classés. The sustainable farming practices now center around preserving the existing biodiversity, the overall natural state of the vineyard environment and optimizing energy usage. Yields have been reduced and a rigorous grape selection process has been implemented, with only 50% used in the blend of the premier wine, compared to 80% in previous years.

All of the winemaking practices are focused on preserving the pureness of the fruit and are overseen by wine consultant Stéphane Derenoncourt. A new wine cellar was created with small volume oak barrels and concrete vessels enabling harvests of single vineyard plots.

As part of the continuous efforts to create a better experience for visitors on the estate, Château Malescasse has been fully restored: the winery and the charterhouse have been fully revamped to form a living, welcoming experience, inspired by the history of the estate and the neoclassical style of the finest houses of the Médoc. The property organizes public and private events and has become a dynamic and unmissable spot on the Bordeaux wine trail. It attracts visitors from around the world, looking to experience refinement and the French art of living.

About Château Malescasse: Owned by Vignobles Austruy since 2012, Château Malescasse has been crafting its signature Bordeaux wines in the Haut-Médoc between Margaux and Saint-Julien since the early 19th century. It acquired and maintained the Cru Bourgeois status since 2003 before obtaining the Exceptionnel distinction earlier this year. The château and gardens cover over 1.5 acres surrounded by 100 acres of vineyards.

About the Crus Bourgeois du Médoc:
The Crus Bourgeois du Médoc form the largest family of Bordeaux crus from some of the most prestigious appellations of the Left Bank. This family brings together vineyards with widely differing profiles and terroirs that satisfy a drastic set of requirements. Thanks to its yearly blind selection process, the Crus Bourgeois du Médoc guarantees consumers a standard of quality for every bottle that proudly bears the “Cru Bourgeois” label.

Louis Roederer Carries on its American Journey in Napa Valley

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OAKLAND, CALIF. (PRWEB) – The story of Maison Louis Roederer’s passion for unique terroirs of Cabernet Sauvignon dates back to the early 1990s with the purchase of Château de Pez in 1995 in the renowned Bordeaux appellation of Saint-Estèphe. 2007 marked the entry of the family into the select group of 1855 Classified Grands Crus wines with the purchase of the iconic Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande.

Photo from Diamond Creek’s Facebook page.

“The acquisition of Diamond Creek is the continuation of our journey into the greatest appellations in the world and our relentless quest to produce great wines with strong identity. Reflective of their pioneering characters, Al and Boots Brounstein built Diamond Creek from the ground up, producing some of the most celebrated and singular wines of the region. I am delighted that, once again, we have the opportunity to carry on the opus of an iconic family and embody its values and savoir-faire,” states Frédéric Rouzaud, President & CEO of Maison Louis Roederer.

“Most important to my Mom, myself and the family was finding the right partner who would respect the legacy that she and Al built over the last 50 years, and who could even elevate that legacy. Frédéric and his family are the perfect fit,” says Phil Ross, Boots Brounstein’ son and Managing Partner.

The mutual respect and admiration between Roederer and Diamond Creek run deep — in 1997, Al and Boots Brounstein were among a small group of wine luminaries invited to Paris by Jean-Claude Rouzaud, Frédéric’s father, to celebrate the 30 greatest wines in the world on his 30-year anniversary at the helm of Louis Roederer. Their friendly relationship endured until Al’s passing and Jean-Claude’s retirement in 2006; it was carried on by Frédéric and Boots who were exploring ways to partner until she passed in July 2019 at age 92.

Phil Ross has agreed to stay at the winery for a period of time. Winemaker Phil Steinschriber, who has been with Diamond Creek since 1991, has also agreed to stay. The majority of the employees, many of whom have worked at Diamond Creek for decades, will also continue there.

Maison Louis Roederer
Originally founded in 1776, Champagne Louis Roederer continues as one of the very rare Champagne houses to remain firmly in the hands of the same family, since 1832. For three centuries, seven successive generations have been responsible for building a reputation for unparalleled quality and continuity. Its focus on meticulous viticulture, best demonstrated with an ongoing conversion to organic and biodynamic vineyards, as well as precise winemaking, account for the House’s enduring excellence and success.

Since 1990, Maison Louis Roederer has strategically acquired esteemed family-owned wineries with an approach centered around identical core values, long-term vision and continuity.

Ramos Pinto (1990), Champagne Deutz and Delas Frères (1993), Château de Pez (1995), Domaines Ott (2004), Scharffenberger Cellars (2004), Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande (2007) and Merry Edwards (2019).

Roederer has also established new ventures: Roederer Estate (1982) and Domaine Anderson (2012) and owns Descaves, an historic wine merchant on the Place de Bordeaux.

Diamond Creek
Founded in 1968, Diamond Creek is California’s first exclusively Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Vineyard. Visionary pioneer Al Brounstein assisted by his wife Boots defied modern conventions and planted Bordeaux varietals on secluded Diamond Mountain. The four vineyards — Red Rock Terrace, Volcanic Hill, Gravelly Meadow and Lake — produce a small amount of long-lived wines that are elegant with great depth and richness, honored and cherished by connoisseurs the world over.

One Bottle Post: 2005 Chateau De Candale

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We did a cellar clean out a month or so ago, a few older wines came out and some newer ones went in. We try and hold all Bordeaux for a minimum of ten years.

This one, the 2005 Chateau De Candale, had been languishing for 13 years just waiting for us.

It was time.

2005 Chateau De Candale

Saint Émilion Grand Cru

80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc

14% alcohol

20-24 months in new French oak barrels.

Notes on the Grapes

While a Merlot-based wine may be lighter and have more fruit-forward notes over a Cabernet Sauvignon, the addition of Cabernet Franc gave this Merlot a nice darker quality, in my opinion. (And it was good to see that the percentage of the grapes used in the wine were given on the back label as it’s always a crapshoot with a Bordeaux as to exactly what you may be getting.) Also, with the alcohol content at 14% the wine presented bigger than Bordeaux at 13%.

Another fun fact: the price sticker was still on the bottle, we had purchased the wine at Valencia Wine Company for $42.99. Knowing this was a wine bar and retail prices can be high, I was curious as to the worth of the wine now and did a Google search of it: it was $55 in 2009 according to a WE article and $35 on release according to WS.

Tasting Notes

Color: Blackberry, some brown on the edge (again that’s indicative of age) and opaque.

Aroma: A very welcoming blend of both fruit and spice at that first whiff. Going back in I noted blackberry, blueberry, black cherry, stems, forest floor complete with wet leaves and mulch, milk chocolate, cinnamon, cedar chips.

Flavor: Layers of spice, the same dark fruit I found in the aroma, rich mouthfeel, firm tannins, coffee grounds and a lingering finish of both the spice and fruit.

Fifteen minutes later: Got a little bit of jam and tobacco on the palate in the second tasting. Also some toasted oak and bell pepper on the nose. Nothing at all unpleasant, just an observation.

Pairing: We were having ham bone soup, second day so bound to be rich and hearty. The back wine label recommended a pairing or either poultry, lamb or grilled beef. Have to say that the wine took center stage with the rather average soup.

Conclusion: 93 Eve pts. WE gave it 91 points in 2009 and WS gave it 89 points in 2008.

I think the wine benefitted from more aging, though one pal had the exact same wine and vintage a month ago and said it had hit its peak. Lucky us. Was also feeling nostalgic as we were regulars at Valencia Wine Company their first ten years or so, miss them and the tasting events they threw.

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.