Black Vintner Aims to Add a Double Dose of Diversity to the Wine World

March 18, 2021 by evebushman

WASHINGTON (PRWEB) – There are very few Black professionals in the wine industry; fewer are winemakers and/or label owners, and even fewer are importers or distributors. Add that many Black-owned wine offerings are from the same six to ten commonly known varietals. And, that much of the diversity of wine hasn’t been presented to Black folks specifically, let alone Americans in general. Zachary M.C. Harris is looking to change that.

Photo from Ikavina Facebook page.

Hailing from Philadelphia, for the past fifteen years, Harris has built relationships with producers throughout the world, seeking unique wines to make up his brand’s initial portfolio. Harris wants to bring great wines to African Americans and others, with a focus on Black women via his company Ikavina Wine and Spirits, LLC. “There are many great wines [that many aren’t exposed to] that don’t cost an arm and a leg.” Currently, Harris has nine wines under his “Wanna Be” Wines brand, consisting of everything from white, sparkling rose, red, dessert and fortified which are sourced from Italy (Veneto, Lombardy, Campania), Portugal and even the Azores. And while the brand name may seem different, he connects it with concepts of several songs which all speak to the Black experience; “I Want to Be Free,” “I Wanna Be Where You Are,” “I Wanna Be Your Lover,” and “Wanna Be Starting Somethin’.” As a creative, with a passion for writing, music, dance and art, this endeavor allows him to exercise his talents; there are even t-shirts with poems written for some of the labels which also feature the designs and an upcoming release has the accompanying poem on the bottle.

Harris’ persistence, philosophy and passion for wine [as well as being an importer and distributor] has him participating in myriad tastings and trade shows annually, from NYC to Italy, Spain and Portugal. “Sometimes in the room I am: the only Black person; the only non-white person; the only U.S. citizen; or a combination of all three.” It’s all about building relationships, which has as much to do with what you know, and also the mutual respects and interests discovered. This resulted in Harris becoming a Soul Wines ambassador (an organization focused on small producers in the Douro region of Portugal), as well as working with various producers in Italy and Spain and forming some upcoming initiatives based on region (Valpolicella, Toscana, Douro) or certain things (Grappa, Cava). “Sometimes a producer wants to work with me based on my reaction to their wines, but also their interactions with me and observing my behavior*,” said Harris.

Currently, Harris distributes in D.C. and has distribution in Pennsylvania and Maryland and is finalizing Delaware. Online orders can be shipped to most of the US. For more information go to http://www.ikavina.com, email him at zacharymcharris@ikavina.com or call 302-386-8118

*Over the years, Harris has had a lot of “interesting” moments while pursuing the business of wine, usually underlined by his gregarious attitude and amiable treatment to the people he comes across, especially those in the service industry. It is very common for him to attend a wine tasting or trade show and be approached by someone he met in the past at a similar event that remembered his dress, his philosophy about wine, and/or his reactions to their offerings, and his knowledge about that type of product. The difference in time could be the same year, a year, or even ten; he makes an impression that sticks.

Learning About Cosmopolitan’s Wine, the Best Wines “you can afford to drink daily” and the Cab that Stole my Palate – With Guarachi Wine Partners

October 30, 2020 by evebushman

When was the last time you tasted wine with one of your favorite wine influencers? It’s been 8 years since I drove over to Woodland Hills to taste wine with Alex Guarachi, owner of both Guarachi Wine Partners, as well as his own Napa-based Guarachi Family Wines label. Alex’s portfolio of wines have been included in Wine Spectator’s Top 100 of the year, dozens of 90+ scored wines from reputable sources and he’s been named Wine Importer of the Year…

Eve and Alex Guarachi, 10/2020.

That paragraph above was one of my public social media posts ahead of my reconnecting with Guarachi. After that came two more posts, one was a video of all of the bottles we shared and the second was nine photos of our fun. This is the story behind it all now.

Guarachi has been kept pretty busy with his distribution company and his winemaking, he now had many more wines to share from both – it’s been 35 years of growth. In our meeting I learned about one wine brand while tasting three others. I’ll start with the one we didn’t taste: Uncorked by Cosmopolitan. Yes, Cosmopolitan magazine with “the largest young women’s media brand in the world.”

Uncorked by Cosmopolitan

Uncorked by Cosmopolitan

First look: the “Uncorked” wine label is silky smooth on one side, holographic on the other and a shape that is reminiscent of an open magazine…I think! We didn’t get to sample these as they are not yet released, so stay tuned as the magazine will surely be advertising their new babies made by Guarachi! And look for these reasonably priced wines on supermarkets and box stores everywhere. Varietals, with these cute little sayings on each, include 2019 “That’s enough todaying for today” Chardonnay, 2019 “Cheers to pour decisions” Rose, 2019 “Cuz Mercury’s always in retrograde” Pinot Noir and 2018 “This is totally one glass” Cabernet Sauvignon.

Parker Station ($15 range)

Parker Station makes a mighty tasty 2018 Chardonnay that has a mild acidity and benefited from four months in French Oak; a 2018 Pinot Noir that was an easy drinker and I could see why it was a #1 selling wine. Guarachi said the Pinot is the best in the price range. I liked the Pinot with a little chill on it and found it both fresh and fruity. Both wines are made with grapes from Monterey, San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties; they also make a 2017 Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon that had a great nose with a bit lighter flavor than most high alcohol Paso Cabs, and a lovely finish. Guarachi bought the label awhile back “but they’re still married” and he continues to purchase the grapes from the Santa Barbara County and Edna County. All labels proudly state, “The best (Chard, Pinot or Cab name is filled in here) you can afford to drink daily.” I agree.

Tenshen Wines ($20 to $25 range)

I was wowed by both a 2017 Central Coast White wine that was predominantly a white Rhone, with a twist (they added Chardonnay to it) that was aged six to seven months in French oak; and a yummy Cabernet Sauvignon made from Paso’s westside and had spent seven to eight months in French oak. These wines are from a partnership between Guarachi and winemaker Joey Tensley.

Guarachi Family Wines ($75 to $95 range)

Really enjoyed the buttery Guarachi 2018 Sun Chase Estate Vineyard, Petaluma Gap, Chardonnay. The wine is a new release, its grown at the highest elevation in the Sonoma Coast, spent 11 months in new French oak, and no barrel is over two years old; then came the 2018 Sun Chase Estate Vineyard, Petaluma Gap, Pinot Noir – an easy drinker, both rich and tannic.

Finally, the giant 2017 Meadowrock Estate Vineyard, Atlas Peak, Cabernet Sauvignon stole my palate. When we were on the Cab Guarachi commented, “Who doesn’t like it?” and I had to agree. It had spent 20 months in new French oak (65% new) and also benefited from all red volcanic soil. I found it rich, tannic and a length that never gave out. The 14.8% alcohol didn’t translate to heat, it gave the wine tremendous backbone. He had started this endeavor over a decade before, and those years of experience shows. Both the Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon have been richly awarded in wine competitions.

https://www.instagram.com/guarachiwinepartners/

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http://www.guarachiwinepartners.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.

Vinexpo Shanghai is Broadening its Range of Services And is Set For October 2020

August 10, 2020 by evebushman

The first Vinexpo Shanghai in 2019, which was unanimously acclaimed by all attendees, broke new ground and the same spirit will prevail at the second event due to take place from 21 to 23 October 2020. Vinexpo Shanghai is adapting to the current climate and devoting a dedicated area to producers who would like to participate but cannot leave their home country. This unprecedented solution will be limited to the first 100 registrants and has been geared to provide simplicity, quality and efficiency to participating producers with an ‘all-inclusive’ formula and targeted networking with buyers attending the exhibition.

Photo from 2019 VinExpo Shanghai

The new area will dovetail perfectly with the range presented at the event by exhibitors from across the globe. Italy, Spain, France, Germany and Argentina, among other countries, will be well represented, alongside Chile, the country of honour at the 2020 exhibition. Chile will make its mark on the event through attendance by numerous estates and brands as well as a raft of top quality masterclasses aimed at Chinese buyers, confirming Vinexpo Shanghai’s international mission within the Chinese market.

Similarly, the Academy is reinventing itself and will be launching the e-Academy, with high-level content (masterclasses and conferences) rolled out during the exhibition but also relayed via Vinexpo’s digital ecosystem in China and around the world. The system will allow remote presentations by prominent international experts to be hosted – they will be transcribed during and at the exhibition.

“Once again and more than ever, we are adapting to this very uncertain climate. In these challenging times, Vinexpo continues to ramp up its business opportunities and bespoke solutions to support recovery of business worldwide. Vinexpo Shanghai 2020, with this new digital solution, will mark the beginning of the recovery”, stresses Vinexpo CEO Rodolphe Lameyse.

About Vinexpo

In an initiative spearheaded by the Bordeaux-Gironde Chamber of Commerce and Industry, VINEXPO came into being in 1981 and today is the leading events organiser in the wine and spirits sector. Over nearly 40 years, Vinexpo has gained a unique understanding of the market and gathered a huge global network of influential distributors. The brand now organises events in five cities worldwide (Bordeaux, Hong Kong, New York, Shanghai and Paris), in addition to a roadshow, Vinexpo Explorer. Every year, the group also publishes one of the most comprehensive market studies on global wine and spirits consumption: the Vinexpo/IWSR report.

Vinexpo has obtained ISO 20121 certification. Vinexpo has introduced a CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) initiative through a number of measures aimed at reducing its environmental impact and optimising local, social and economic benefits. Vinexpo is demonstrating its commitment to group-wide performance by ensuring its business is managed in compliance with ISO 20121 certification on “Event sustainability management systems”.

Winesellers, Ltd. Releases Tiamo Organic Dry Wine Spritzers

June 3, 2020 by evebushman

CHICAGO (PRWEB) – Award-winning importer Winesellers, Ltd. introduces two new additions to their Tiamo Organic range from Italy – Tiamo Organic Dry Rose and Dry White Wine Spritzers in 250ml cans; just in time for the kickoff of Summer. The organic dry wine spritzers are both low alcohol (5 percent ABV) and low calorie (90 per can), crafted for the modern wine consumer looking to lead a balanced and healthier lifestyle. As we say, #LiveLifeLoveLifeTiamoLife.

Tiamo wine spritzers are created with premium wine made from organic grapes from the best growers in Italy, then blended with sparkling water and a touch of organic cane sugar (2g/can and 3g/can in the White and Rose, respectively). These new Tiamo Spritzers are not only organic, low alcohol and low calorie; they are vegan-friendly, gluten-free and contain no artificial flavors or sweeteners. The dry style and absence of unnecessary flavors makes these spritzers the ideal choice for consumers looking for a no-frills, mindful beverage that also tastes like wine! They are refreshing and crisp wine-based cocktails with a bit of fizz, a smart alternative for health-conscious drinkers.

Jordan Sager, Co-President of Winesellers, explains, “Consumers are becoming more selective by seeking moderation, but also authenticity with their beverage choices. Tiamo has always been a highly innovative and responsible brand with a history of producing top organic certified wines and offering them in sustainable, alternative packaging. These organic dry-style wine spritzers represent the next phase in that development to cater to the evolving demand within this category.”

Tiamo Organic Spritzers will be available nationally starting early May in 4-packs of 250ml cans, with a targeted national retail price of $14.99. The new canned spritzers will join Tiamo 375ml still wine cans currently available in national distribution.

ABOUT TIAMO ORGANIC
Tiamo, which simply means “I Love You” in Italian, is a line of wines, made with organic grapes that represent top quality wines from the best growers in their respective regions. The selection includes a Prosecco that is sourced from vineyards near the village of Valdobbiadene, a crisp but fruit forward Pinot Grigio that comes from vineyards near Treviso in the Veneto region, a beautifully soft Chianti from Montespertoli, which lies in the heart of the Tuscan countryside and a full bodied and robust Barbera from Lombardy. All the Tiamo wines are sourced by the owners of Tiamo, Melvyn & Jane Master, their son Charlie Master and the Sager family.

ABOUT WINESELLERS, LTD.
Founded in 1978 by Yale Sager, Winesellers, Ltd. is a second generation, family-owned and globally recognized importer, and marketer of fine wines to the U.S. market. The company’s portfolio represents the finest quality of wines in their respective price category and has widespread distribution in all 50 U.S. states. The Winesellers, Ltd. portfolio includes producers and brands from Argentina, France, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, and other countries worldwide.

For more information, visit http://www.winesellersltd.com and follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

46 new members join the Native Grape Odyssey

January 8, 2020 by evebushman

VERONA, ITALY (PRWEB) – The Native Grape Odyssey (NGO) Maestro course in Tokyo which ended on December 6th, 2019, marked the last educational initiative of the Native Grapes Academy (NGA) project for the current year. The course took place over five days, similarly to the previous Canadian (15-19 September) and Russian (28 October – 1 November) editions. After four intense days of lectures and tastings on Italian and Spanish wines and grape varieties, participants took a final exam consisting of theory questions and the tasting of a red and a white wine. Upon successful completion of the course, 46 participants obtained the “European Quality Wine Hero” title, with the “hero” appellation symbolizing the role that these trained experts will have to fulfil to represent Italian and Spanish wines among consumers in Japan.

Participants were selected among all applicants for their knowledge of Italian and Spanish grapes and wines. The course served the purpose of providing additional, in-depth knowledge about these two viticultural traditions. Kaitani Ikuko, journalist and author of Italian wine and food publications, commented, “I feel like all the scattered knowledge I had gathered occasionally during my winery visits in Italy, one-day seminars, and through books has now finally come in an orderly manner.” Many participants also commented on the uniqueness of the NGO Maestro Course in the Japan market for its thorough analysis of all regions as well as treatment of wines and grape varieties that are little-known internationally.

The training provided by the NGO course as well as the inclusion of participants in an international community will allow to create official representatives of Italian and Spanish wine in Japan. Roddy Ropner, director of Wellspring Wines and teacher of the NGO Japan course, stated, “I think there is already a high level of knowledge on Italian and Spanish wines in Japan, but the market seems to be stable. Especially for the Italian wines, most of the sales seems to be concentrated on Italian restaurants. What we can try to do is creating more opportunities to sell to private customers and also more opportunities to sell to Japanese restaurants. That’s why we need ambassadors of the Italian and Spanish wine quality.”

Regarding Spanish wines in particular, Ropner added, “I think that one of the troubles with Spanish wines is that there have been a lot of changes in the last 20 years, so the styles have changed quite a lot; you’ve gone from traditional styles to modern styles. So often it’s difficult to know what to expect from wine, and this can create confusion for the consumers. NGO Maestro participants have now acquired the knowledge to demystify it for the public.”

Irving So, instructor at the Academie du Vin and co-teacher of the NGO Maestro Japan, also provided his insights into the perception of Italian and Spanish wines in the Japanese market and the importance of education, “In Japan, usually what is sold is the best-known wines, like Brunello or Nebbiolo. However, there are so many wines of high quality that are still not known in this country. We need experts that know the grapes well and can be ambassadors of Italian and Spanish wines.”

Another important learning moment of the NGO week was the Walk-Around Tasting, which took place on Friday December 6th. Whereas during the course students tasted one major example of a wine coming from a specific denomination, in the Walk-Around Tasting additional wines from the same denomination were made available, thus allowing students to fully understand the diversity of styles and wine-making techniques. Moreover, this event gathered more than 100 wine experts and trade professionals working in Tokyo and furnished them with the opportunity to network and meet local importers. Wines for the tasting were provided by leading food and beverage import companies in Japan along with wine trade associations.

The Tokyo event marked the end of the NGO initiatives for 2019, yet for 2020 the project will increase its activities scheduling wine seminars and Walk-Around Tastings in 5 different cities for each target country (Canada, Japan, and Russia) for a grand total of 15 high-level training and tasting events. In 2020, moreover, the NGO Web App piloted in 2019, will be further expanded. The App allows users to create and share tasting notes and stay in touch with the community of course participants. Additional information on NGO activities can be found on the official website nativegrapeodyssey.com and by following the project’s social media channels.

About: Native Grape Odyssey (NGO) is a brand of the Native Grapes Academy (NGA) project. NGA is a project financed by the European Union and managed by Unione Italiana Vini and Interprofesional del Vino de España (OIVE) for the promotion of PDO and PGI European wines abroad, in particular in three countries: Japan, Canada and Russia. In order to achieve this, the NGA educational program will organize wine seminars, workshops and b2b meetings both in these countries and in Verona, Italy, inviting wine experts and influencers from these countries. These events realized across the span of three years (2019-21) aim to create awareness about European native grapes abroad, as well as the wines produced from them, in particular Italian and Spanish wines, which share a long tradition and a high standard of quality.

Vinexpo New York returns to the Javits Center for a third year, March 2-3, 2020

November 11, 2019 by evebushman

NEW YORK – The leading international exhibition for wine and spirits professionals in North America, Vinexpo New York returns for a third year, March 2-3, 2020, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. The 2020 show promises to build on the momentum of the March 2019 program, which drew 400 exhibitors and 3,000 wine and spirits professionals—three-quarters of whom indicated they are directly involved in purchasing.

Jointly organized with Diversified Communications, Vinexpo New York is open exclusively to trade professionals. It features two full days of educational programming, networking opportunities, and an exhibition hall strategically organized to foster business relationships between both domestic and international producers and American importers, distributors, retailers, brokers, e-commerce representatives, on-trade buyers and sommeliers. Registration for attendees is now open, with an early bird rate offered through Nov. 30.

The 2020 show will introduce several significant new features, among them a new Importer Pavilion that will provide importers with an efficient platform to showcase their wine and spirits portfolios to top buyers and decision-makers from all regions of the U.S. and Canada. Also new is a Key Buyer Program offering VIP perks to high-volume wine and spirits buyers from top distributors and importers. Key buyers enjoy free entry to the exhibit hall, including all networking events, special events, One to Wine Meetings, conferences and master classes. They also have exclusive access to a Key Buyer Lounge that provides a comfortable place, stocked with complimentary refreshments, to meet with their team during the expo. Key buyer nominations are being accepted at keybuyer@vinexponewyork.com .

Vinexpo New York 2020 will also see the return of popular signature offerings like the complimentary One to Wine Meetings matchmaking service and WOW! World of Organic Wines, an exhibit and tasting area devoted exclusively to organic and biodynamic wines and spirits from around the world. More details of the 2020 program will be announced shortly.

Mary Larkin, president of Diversified Communications remarked, “We’re excited to continue our partnership with Vinexpo and to once again bring its power to America, where wine and spirits producers from around the globe have an unequalled opportunity to showcase their products to the largest wine-consuming market in the world.”

Added Vinexpo CEO Rodolphe Lameyse, “The strong results of the past two Vinexpo New York shows, and the early interest we are seeing from exhibitors for 2020, illustrates just how vital it has become in three short years to the international wine and spirits business. The show remains the single best opportunity for U.S. importers, distributors, sommeliers and other trade professionals to meet hundreds of international producers in one location.”

For more information or to register to attend, visit www.vinexponewyork.com.

About Vinexpo

Since its establishment in Bordeaux in 1981, on the initiative of Bordeaux Gironde’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Vinexpo has been a leading organizer of events for the wine and spirits industry. In 37 years, Vinexpo has developed a unique understanding of the market and an extensive network of key distributors around the World. The brand currently runs exhibitions in four set locations (Bordeaux, Hong Kong, New York and soon Paris), and the touring event Vinexpo Explorer. The Group also publishes every year the Vinexpo/IWSR Report, which is the most comprehensive survey of the global consumption of wine and spirits. For more information, visit www.vinexpo.com. Join Vinexpo on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.

González Byass is European Winery of the Year: Wine Enthusiast Magazine Announces Wine Star Award Winners

November 26, 2018 by evebushman

CHICAGO (PRWEB) – González Byass, a family-owned producer of fine wines, Sherries and premium spirits, is the 2018 Wine Star Award winner for “European Winery of the Year” from Wine Enthusiast Magazine.

Each year, the editors at Wine Enthusiast Magazine nominate the most influential members of the alcohol beverage industry for the annual Wine Star Awards, including people and companies who have made outstanding achievements in the wine and beverage world.

Founded in 1835, González Byass is a family-owned, collection of wineries that spans across Spain’s most important wine producing regions. The González family has been dedicated to making fine Sherries and brandies in Jerez, Spain, creating such well-known brands as Tío Pepe Fino Sherry and Lepanto Brandy de Jerez. Today, the fifth generation of the González family continues to build the winery and brands, including: Bodegas Beronia (Rioja and Rueda), Cavas Vilarnau (Barcelona), Finca Constancia (Vino de la Tierra de Castilla), Finca Moncloa (Vino de la Tierra de Cádiz), Viñas del Vero (Somontano) and Pazos de Lusco (Rías Baixas). In each of these regions, González Byass seeks to make the highest quality wines respecting the local terroir and the environment.

“This is a huge accomplishment,” says Mauricio González Gordon, chairman and fifth generation family member of the company, “With such amazing wineries in Europe, we are so excited to win this award. González Byass strives for excellence and it is wonderful to be recognized for the hard work and dedication by one of the leading wine publications in the United States.”

González Byass and the other winners will appear in Wine Enthusiast’s “Best of Year” December 31st issue. The honorees will be presented with their coveted trophies at the 19th annual Wine Star Awards black-tie gala on Monday, January 28, 2019 at Nobu Eden Roc in Miami, FL.

About González Byass USA
González Byass USA is a Chicago based importer for a strategically selected portfolio of fine wine and spirit brands from around the world including Spain, Chile, Italy, Austria and the US.

González Byass USA is the US subsidiary of González Byass headquartered in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain. González Byass is a family-owned, collection of wineries founded in 1835 which spans across Spain’s most important wine producing regions. From its foundation, the González family have been dedicated to making fine Sherries and brandies in Jerez, Spain, creating such well-known brands as Tío Pepe Fino Sherry and Lepanto Brandy de Jerez.

Today the fifth generation of the family are the custodians of these exceptional brands having built the company into a family of wineries which produces wine in some of Spain’s most famous regions; Bodegas Beronia (Rioja and Rueda), Cavas Vilarnau (Barcelona), Finca Constancia (Vino de la Tierra de Castilla), Finca Moncloa (Vino de la Tierra de Cádiz), Viñas del Vero (Somontano) and Pazo de Lusco (Rías Baixas). In each of these regions the family strives to make the best possible quality wines respecting the local terroir and the environment. At the same time the company has also expanded its interests further in the premium spirits business and has created pioneering brands such as The London No.1 and Nomad Outland Whisky to compliment the Spanish brandies in the portfolio Soberano, El Presidente and Lepanto.

González Byass USA also represents a number of international wineries in the US market including from Austria Domäne Wachau, from Italy Caldora, Cantine Cellaro, Vesevo, Vigneti Del Salento and Villa de Borgo, and from the US Row Eleven. In addition Harveys Bristol Cream and Fundador Brandy de Jerez were recently added to the portfolio.

Diplomático Rum Named Wine Enthusiast’s “Spirit Brand of the Year”

November 25, 2018 by evebushman

NEW YORK (PRWEB) – Diplomático – a super-premium rum brand renowned for its superior taste, quality and mixability – is honored to announce its win as the Wine Star’s “Spirit Brand of the Year.” Each year, Wine Enthusiast’s distinguished Wine Star Awards recognizes companies and individuals whose vision has impacted the wine and spirits industry. Diplomático is thrilled to be a part of such an esteemed group as the first-ever rum to win this category. Produced by Destilerías Unidas S.A. (DUSA) in Venezuela, Diplomático is an independent, family-owned brand recognized as one of the finest rums in the world.

Jose Rafael Ballesteros, Diplomático’s CEO says, “We are truly humbled by this award as it recognizes our contribution to elevate the rum category and make consumers re-evaluate their perception of rum. This is an ongoing goal as we work toward being not just the best premium rum globally, but also one of the greatest spirits in the world.”

Diplomático’s delicious and distinctive taste profile is the result of a unique rum-making process. The rums are distilled using a rich variety of methods, which allows its award-winning Master Blenders to create exquisite blends, including Reserva Exclusiva, the brand’s flagship sipping rum.

The high quality of Diplomático is upheld by its most valuable resource, its people. The company’s growth has always been alongside its employees and their families, supported by a long-standing commitment to protect the community and ecosystem surrounding the distillery. The company provides sustainable jobs for over 700 workers in Venezuela and has developed strong social programs to improve the quality of life and growth of its human talents while minimizing environmental impact.

“We’re in the midst of a rum revolution,” says Adam Strum, Editor and Publisher, Wine Enthusiast Magazine. “We chose Diplomático Rum for the Wine Star award, not only for its supreme quality but also because we admire their leadership in educating spirits lovers about the ways in which we can mix premium rum, and sip it too. Being a family-owned business ourselves, Diplomático’s commitment to family and work mirrors our philosophy, and we’re excited to welcome Diplomático to the Wine Star Awards family as the first-ever rum to win this award.”

Earlier this year, Diplomático announced E. & J. Gallo Winery as its exclusive U.S. distributor. As both companies embrace the same family and community values, they are excited to continue to grow and leverage each other’s expertise to expand Diplomático’s presence in the U.S. market.

“As their U.S. import partner, we congratulate Diplomático on this well-deserved recognition,” says Ernest Gallo, COO of E. & J. Gallo Winery. “Diplomático represents an important part of our growing luxury spirits portfolio as it transcends the rum category and introduces more premium spirits consumers to all that rum has to offer.”

Wine Enthusiast will officially award Diplomático Rum at the Wine Star Awards Gala on January 29th, 2019 in Miami at the Nobu Eden Roc Hotel.

About Rum Diplomático (http://www.ronDiplomático.com)

Diplomático, a family-owned brand inspired by the character of Don Juan Nieto Melendez, whose portrait is illustrated on its labels, is a premium-and-above rum from Venezuela. Located at the foot of the Andes Mountains, the Diplomático Distillery (producing top-quality spirits since 1959) combines traditional methods with modern technology to produce the finest of rums. The production area boasts great conditions for sugar cane and rum production including fertile lands, abundant water and a tropical weather. The team of award-winning Master Blenders works diligently to create unique and complex rums. The product range consists of the Tradition Range: Planas (aged up to 6 years), Mantuano (aged up to 8 years) and Reserva Exclusiva (aged up to 12 years), and the Prestige Line: Single Vintage and Ambassador, both aged 12 years and finished in Spanish sherry casks for one and two years respectively, and a Special Edition: The Distillery Collection featuring a Single Batch Kettle rum and a Single Barbet column rum.

About E. & J. Gallo Winery

Founded by brothers Ernest and Julio Gallo in 1933 in Modesto, California, E. & J. Gallo Winery is the world’s largest family-owned winery and the acclaimed producer of award-winning wines and spirits featured in more than 110 countries around the globe. A pioneer in the art of grape growing, winemaking, sustainable practices, marketing and worldwide distribution, Gallo crafts and imports wines and spirits to suit a diverse range of tastes and occasions, from everyday offerings to boutique, luxury bottlings.

The Gallo portfolio is comprised of more than 100 unique brands, including New Amsterdam Vodka and Gin, Familia Camarena Tequila, RumHaven, Lo-Fi Aperitifs and E&J Brandy and luxury spirits offerings which include California Premium Brandies Argonaut and Germain-Robin, imported Scotch whiskies from Whyte & Mackay, including The Dalmore and Jura Single Malts, Shackleton Blended Malt and John Barr Reserve Blended Scotch and Diplomático Rum. Premium wine offerings include Apothic, Carnivor, Columbia Winery, Ecco Domani, Edna Valley Vineyard, J Vineyards & Winery, Louis M. Martini, MacMurray Estate Vineyards, Orin Swift, Chateau Souverain, Talbott Vineyards, and William Hill Estate, along with highly acclaimed imports, such as Alamos, Brancaia, La Marca, Las Rocas, Martín Códax, Whitehaven, and LUX Wines, importers of Allegrini, Argiano, Jermann, Pieropan and Renato Ratti.

About Wine Enthusiast Magazine

Wine Enthusiast’s approach to wine and spirits is accessible and unpretentious, and enjoyed by novices and experts alike. Published 13 times per year, the magazine’s audience is at nearly one million strong. The magazine and its Buying Guide with more than 200,000 ratings and reviews make up the most comprehensive database in the industry available for free online at http://www.WineMag.com.

Vinexpo New York Returns to the Big Apple March 4-5, 2019

November 7, 2018 by evebushman

NEW YORK – Returning for its second year, Vinexpo New York – the leading international exhibition for wine and spirits professionals in North America – will take place March 4-5, 2019 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. The exhibit is strategically organized to ensure the creation and growth of business relationships between international producers and American importers, distributors, retailers, brokers, e-commerce representatives, on-trade buyers and sommeliers. Registration for attendees is now open, with an early bird rate offered through Nov. 30, 2018.

Jointly organized with Diversified Communications, Vinexpo New York is open exclusively to trade professionals and features two days of business meetings, educational conferences, master classes, tastings and networking events. Mary Larkin, executive vice president of Diversified Communications remarked, “After the remarkable success of Vinexpo New York 2018, we are thrilled to partner with Vinexpo for another year and welcome back the international wine and spirits industry to the world’s largest wine-consuming market.”

Signature offerings like Vinexpo’s complimentary One to Wine Meetings matchmaking service will return to New York in 2019, and exhibitors and attendees can also look forward to new features like WOW! World of Organic Wines, an exhibit and tasting area devoted exclusively to organic and biodynamic wines and spirits from around the world. Complete 2019 programming will be announced shortly.

“As last year’s exhibit showed, the demand to break into the U.S. market is greater than ever before,” said Christophe Navarre, president of the Vinexpo Supervisory Board. “With a list of exhibitors that is constantly expanding, Vinexpo New York will once again be the single best opportunity for U.S. importers, distributors, sommeliers and other trade professionals to meet hundreds of international producers in one location.”

Exhibitors at Vinexpo New York will represent wine-producing regions from around the globe, including many that are introducing products to the North American market for the first time. To date, countries returning to exhibit include: Argentina, Austria, France, Germany, Greece and Italy, as well as Portugal, Russia, South Africa, Spain and the United States. New to the 2019 show floor, thus far, are exhibitors from China, Romania and Serbia.

For more information or to register to attend, visit https://www.vinexponewyork.com/.

About Vinexpo

Perlis Picks: Taste The World

July 7, 2018 by Michael Perlis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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