Blanc de Blancs and Henriot Champagne “Meditation” Tasting

July 5, 2019 by evebushman

Dressing in all white, as suggested by the event planners, is always special – when attending a wine tasting. I think I did it once before. Honestly, anytime I see someone wearing white to a wine event I think, whoa, there’s some confidence there. Not only are they sure of not spilling themselves, they’re (overly) confident others will reach the spittoon 100% of the time.

Our teaser: Join LA’s first ‘All White Wine’ showcase featuring some of the greatest white wines ever made!

Besides all that delectable white wine the event also included several educational sessions, five in all, that we could step in on if space allowed. I was headed for the “Medi-Tasting – Meditation on champagne sponsored by Henriot” while others included: Champagne Session hosted by Master Sommelier Christopher Miller, Chardonnay Challenge hosted by Master Sommelier Nick Hetzel, Autres Blancs hosted by Master Sommelier Christopher Miller and Winemakers Panel sponsored by Jackson Family Wines.

We started with a delightful lunch that was sponsored by the Jackson Family Estates…and then got into the wines:

Tasting

These are all of the wineries at press time and I have bolded those that I was able to taste and particular vintages I enjoyed. See my photos to see more of them as well: Dom Perignon, Ruinart (NV Blanc de Blancs), Moet & Chandon (2009 vintage), La Crema, Cambria Estate (2018 Viognier, Tepusquet Vineyard), Brewer-Clifton (all Chards Greg Brewer poured, especially the 2018 Diatom Bar M), Seabold Cellars (2017 Dry Riesling and 2017 Olson Chardonnay), Copain Wines, Champagne Henriot, Bouchard Pere et Fils, William Fevre, Stonestreet (2016 Alexander Valley Chardonnay) , Matanzas Creek (2016 Knights Valley Sauvignon Blanc), Bernardus (2016 Chardonnay and 2012 Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc), Mail Road Wines (2014 Chardonnay), Cloudy Bay, Newton Vineyard, LAW Estate (2015, 16 and 17 “Soph” white Rhone blend), J.J. Vincent, Cuvaison, Pol Roger, Domaine Faiveley, Famille Vincent, Pascal Jolivet (2017 Sancerre “Sauvage”), Famille Hugel, Olivier Leflaive, Hecht & Bannier, Long Meadow Ranch, Stony Hill, Domaine Schlumberger, Famille Perrin, Miraval Provence, Chateau De Beaucastel, La Vielle Ferme, Domaine & Maison Alexandrins, Schloss Lieser, Reichsrat Von Buhl, Weingut Pfeffingen (2017 Estate Scheurebe), Weingut Okonomierat Rebholz (2014 Riesling), Schafer-Frohlich, Hans Wirsching (2016 Silvaner) and Becker Estate.

Medi-Tasting

See below for the details from the organizers, my takeaways from the session included looking at the wine as a beginner would to get a fresh outlook: listen to it – you will hear the ocean the wine may have traveled over before it arrived to you, put your finger in it, think about all that went on from planting to delivery and honor it. We practiced a bit of meditation as well, and noted how our frame of mind and stressors can add to or take away from our enjoyment. When we got down to tasting we already knew they would all be remarkable wines from Champagne Henriot – NV Blanc de Blancs, 2008 Brut Millesime (released a year ago, 100% Grand Cru) and 2005 Cuvee Hemera that I meditated the longest over as I found it so delicious.

Blanc de Blancs Medi-Tasting (Abbreviated From WineLA.com)

Medi-Tasting is a new, exciting and engaging wine tasting experience, created by Champagne Henriot, including practices of mindfulness to elevate the art of tasting…Elisha Goldstein, PhD, is co-founder of The Center for Mindful Living in West Los Angeles and creator of the 6-month coaching and mentorship program, A Course in Mindful Living. A psychologist, and international speaker and mindfulness educator, his books include Uncovering Happiness and The Now Effect…

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.

Unique Northern California Varietals Steal the Show

May 2, 2019 by evebushman

PETALUMA, Calif. (PRWEB) – The judges of the 2019 North of the Gate Wine Competition have spoken, and this year’s wines debuting at the Sonoma-Marin Fair will be as complex and unique as the regions they come from.

This annual competition, now in its 19th year, has grown to represent unique, world-class wineries of Northern California, spanning from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Oregon Border. Each year, winemakers submit their best wine to a panel of industry-leading critics and judges. The winning wines will, in turn, be showcased at the Sonoma-Marin Fair Wine Garden this June 19-23, allowing fairgoers from all over the chance to experience the best that Northern California winemaking has to offer.

The 2019 competition took a unique turn, as more obscure varietals gave way to traditional California wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Chardonnay. Instead, the field blend of international varietals, which were originally planted in California, stole the show. Varietals among the Best in Class wines were grapes such as Carignane, Albarino, Barbera, Graciano, Montepulciano, Grenache and beyond. This refreshing success brings new life to the competition and opens opportunities for winemakers to expand the palates of their consumers, giving them an opportunity to taste something they might not have grabbed off the shelf themselves.

Winemaker Carol Shelton.

Known as the “Queen of Zin,” winemaker Carol Shelton was awarded this year’s Winemaker of the Fair. Shelton’s wines swept the show, winning multiple awards across categories. From Best of Class, Best of Show, and Double Gold awards, it was clear that Shelton’s passion and craft in winemaking in the North Bay showed up to play this year. The Carol Shelton Wines 2016 Oat Valley Carignane took both Best of Show and Best of Show Red, while her Late Harvest 2017 Zinfandel Black Magic won Best of Show Dessert Wine.

Imagery Estates showcased their 2018 Albarino, which took Best of Show White across the competition.
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Winemaker Jamie Benziger carries with her a legacy of Sonoma winemaking from Benziger Estates, though it’s clear that she has made her mark on Imagery Estates with her own style and talent.

Idle Hour Winery took home the Best of Show Sparkling Wine. Winemaker, Anna Marie Dos Remedios, incredible talent impressed this year’s judges with her beautifully crafted Sparkling Blanc de Blanc.

Competition judge and professional wine writer Bill McNabb noted the trend of more unusual grapes being planted and flourishing at the hands of talented women winemakers.
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“The Albarino that just won Best White is a very unusual grape that normally does not win,” says McNabb. “It is refreshing to see these grapes win.”

This bodes well for Northern California winemakers who are looking to entice their audience to get outside their comfort zone. The vintages presented in the competition are indicative of another spectacular year in California winemaking, despite challenges from the fires of 2017 that potentially threatened some of this year’s submissions. In terms of balance, the wines presented were holding their own beyond expectation. “This year’s wines are less acidic than years prior. The wines this year are deeper and have more earthy notes,” noted competition judge Yvonne Hurson. For a complete list of award-winning wines, please visit http://www.sonoma-marinfair.org/portfolio-item/wine/#.

The incredible wines were not the only thing to be celebrated. In an industry historically dominated by men, female judges, winemakers, and even the North of the Gate Wine Competition Director, Valery Uhl, carry distinct representation across the competition. There was no shortage of Women In Wine at the North of The Gate competition this year.

The winning wines will be displayed at the Sonoma-Marin County Fair in the Wine Garden this June 19th-23, 2019. Fair-goers can taste and mingle with the winemakers, as each wine who won their category are featured in a display for all 5 days of the Fair. A separate ticket is required to visit the Wine Garden and will be available for purchase at the gate the day of and in advance online at Sonoma-marinfair.org.

Mark your calendars for a summer to remember during “Eight Decades of Fun” at the Sonoma-Marin Fair, June 19-23, 2019. With new competitions and contests, FREE concerts, unlimited carnival rides, and delicious fair food you will want to come all 5 fun-filled days. Enjoy heart-warming entertainment during the World’s Ugliest Dog® Contest, the thrill of Sprint Car Racing, and the joy of connecting with our local agricultural community. For details, visit sonoma-marinfair.org or call (707) 283-3247. Be the first to know about all of the fun by following us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

A Slice of Heaven: From Babcock Winery and Salt Creek Grille Valencia

September 8, 2017 by evebushman

In a few short weeks Salt Creek Grille Valencia will host a five-course wine pairing dinner featuring Babcock Winery presented by Brand Ambassador Scott Farrar, in their large open-air patio.

Executive Chef Ignacio Munoz and Pastry Chef Kristina Waggoner “are teaming up to create a decadent menu” for the event slated for September 21 at 6:30 p.m. Reservations are $110 per person, plus tax and gratuity, and there is a limited number of seats. (A few have been reserved, namely mine and some early bird pals!)

Every guest should welcome the warm hospitality that the restaurant has been known for over 20 years.

Babcock Wine Dinner @ Salt Creek Grille

Executive Chef Ignacio Munoz & Chef Kristina Waggoner

Thursday, September 21^st 6:30pm

$110 plus tax and gratuity

Grilled Peach Salad

Fresh grilled peaches, honey goat cheese, spiced pecans,

butter lettuce with a poppy seed vinaigrette

2015 Sauvignon Blanc, “Simpatico”, Sta. Rita Hills

King Salmon in Papillote

Fresh king salmon, shitake mushrooms, bok choy, heirloom tomatoes,

herbs tightly wrapped and cooked in corn husks

2015 Chardonnay, “Top Cream”, Sta. Rita Hills

Tarragon Airline Chicken

Marinated Airline chicken breast accompanied by roasted butternut squash, spinach, cranberries, feta and finished with a tarragon butter sauce

2015 Pinot Noir, “Rita’s Earth”, Santa Barbara County

Dry Aged New York

Seasoned and grilled New York steak drizzled with a cherry reduction, served with grilled asparagus and a potato skin that’s topped with pancetta,

Gorgonzola cheese, scallions and sour cream

2015 Pinot Noir, “Slice of Heaven”, Sta. Rita Hills

Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apple

Baked apple stuffed with decadent cheesecake

Drizzled with spiced caramel & toasted nuts

2014 Late Harvest Pinot Gris, “Naughty Little Nectar”

I had an opportunity – thanks to Salt Creek Grille – to taste through the line-up of Babcock Wines. The specific pairings you will have at the dinner are noted below:

Babcock Wines Tasting Notes

2015 Sauvignon Blanc, “Simpatico”, Sta. Rita Hills (Will be paired with Grilled Peach Salad) This wine had some time in oak as well as the standard stainless steel. Aromas of cling peaches, sweet pear, fruit cocktail and oak. On the mouth it had the same fresh and lively fruit cocktail notes as well as a nice low acidity that still allowed for a lengthy finish.

2015 Chardonnay, “Top Cream”, Sta. Rita Hills (Will be paired with the King Salmon Papillote) Creamy, honeysuckle, toast, caramel and macadamia nut gave the wine an overall aromatic appeal. The flavors were consistent with the aromas and had a lovely balance.

2015 Pinot Noir, “Rita’s Earth”, Santa Barbara County (Will be paired with Tarragon Airline Chicken) Earth, dark cherry, bark and wet leaves on the nose. The taste was big, tart and dark cherry with low tannins. Extremely appealing.

2015 Pinot Noir, “Slice of Heaven”, Sta. Rita Hills (Will be paired with the Dry Aged New York) Bright cherry, stems, dried strawberry and white pepper greeted us on the nose. Tasting the wine showed some cranberry, dried cherry – and another well balanced wine.

And, if you can’t wait: LET’S MEET FOR A DRINK: Half-price Bottle Mondays • Tapped Out Burger Tuesdays • Wine Down Wednesdays • All-American Tito’s Thursdays • Late Night Happy Hour and Live Entertainment Friday & Saturday.

Babcock Wine Dinner September 21, 6:30 P.M.

Reservations: 661-222-9999

24415 Town Center Drive, Suite 115, Valencia

http://www.saltcreekgrille.com/valencia/

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

Pinots, Chards and more at the Santa Lucia Highlands Tasting

February 10, 2017 by evebushman

This past Wednesday I attended a trade and media tasting of the Santa Lucia Highlands (SLH) at Hinoki and The Bird in Century City. We had 25 SLH wineries pouring Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, Riesling and other varieties. I made it through a decent number of the tables – juggling pen, program, wine glass and cell phone for photos as usual – so I will list my favorites and the full list of wineries and growers are at the bottom of this post. This is a link to a short slideslow.

Meridith May, Publisher and Editorial Director The Clever Root, The Tasting Panel and SOMM Journal magazines, at the Talbot table.

Cima Collina

2014 Chardonnay, “Tondre Grapefield” had a small welcome amount of residual sugar in their Chablis-like Chard. The 2012 Late Harvest Riesling, “Tondre Grapefield” had a lovely mouth-coating viscosity.

Hahn Family Wines (everything they poured was exquisite)

The lightly oaked 2015 SLH Chardonnay; 2015 SLH Pinot Noir; and the terroir in both the 2014 Pinot Noir Lucienne “Smith Vineyard” and 2014 Pinot Noir “Doctor’s Vineyard.”

Lohr

2013 Pinot Noir, Highlands Bench, had great bright fruit and spice.

Luli

2014 SLH Chardonnay and 2014 SLH Pinot Noir – both had some nice fruit.

Mansfield – Dunne

2015 SLH Pinot Noir for its remarkable nose.

Manzoni

A bright 2014 SLH Pinot Gris with a hint of lemon; a crisp 2014 SLH Chardonnay; and a simply perfect 2014 SLH Pinot Noir.

McIntyre

Nice to have a fun NV Methode Champenoise, the “l’Homme Qui Ris” which is made of 100% Pinot Noir and a 2015 Rose of Pinot Noir “Estate” – both served to cleanse and revive my palate.

Miner (everything they poured had lovely balance)

All 2014 Pinot Noirs: Gary’s Vineyard, Rosella’s Vineyard, Rosella’s Vineyard 777 and Sierra Mar Vineyard.

Miura (Again, I liked them all – and my top pick of the day was among them)

2015 SLH Pinot Noir, the 2010 Syrah Antiqv2s from both the Gary and Pisoni Vineyards that were huge and dry; and my pick of the day: the big and black 2015 Pinot Noir Pisoni Vineyard.

Morgan

2014 “G 17” Syrah was excellent with its addition of Grenache and Tempranillo and the 2015 Double L Vineyard Riesling had hints of dried pineapple and apricot.

Paraiso Vineyards (everything)

2015 Rose of Pinot Noir, Monterey, had nice low acid and residual sugar; 2015 Chardonnay, Monterey, also had low acid and good fruit; 2014 Chardonnay, Alexander-Smith LH for its flowery aromas and viscosity; 2014 SLH Pinot Noir; and a 2014 SLH Syrah.

Siduri

2014 Pinot Noir, both the Gary’s vineyard and the Rosella’s Vineyard had a slightly sweet taste up front that just graduated into a lovely balance.

Talbott

Starting with a 2014 Kali Hart Chardonnay that I enjoyed for its bright fruit and Chablis-like qualities; the 2014 Logan SLH Chardonnay; the 2014 Chardonnay from the Sleepy Hollow vineyard was my favorite; and a 2014 Logan Pinot Noir.

Testarossa

2014 Chardonnay, Fogstone Vineyard and a 2014 Pinot Noir, Doctor’s Vineyard.

Tudor (my final “liked everything” table)

2014 Riesling, Nacina, Tondre Grapefield; 2014 SLH Pinot Noir; 2014 Riesling; and the 2014 Nacina Ice Wine, Tondre Grapefield just had the most perfect mouth coating viscosity with layers of honey and jasmine.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SLHWine/

Website: http://www.santaluciahighlands.com/

Grower Labels

Many of the Highlands estates are “grower-only.” They focus their efforts on supplying the best grapes possible to outside wineries. But many of the SLH’s best-known winegrowing estates also have their own prestige labels. Winemakers the likes of Jeff Pisoni, Garrett Boekenoogen, Joe and Charlie Wagner, Paul Clifton, Steve McIntyre, Scott Caraccioli, and Dan Lee get to work with fruit off their own vineyards, from dirt to bottle, for their own personal statement labels.

Associate Labels

Many wineries, within and outside the SLH, purchase grapes from the appellation to craft their best releases. Adam Lee at Siduri and Novy. Michael Browne at Kosta Browne. Rob Jensen and Bill Brosseau at Testarossa. Emmanuel Kemijii at Miura. Ed Kurtzman at August West. Brian Loring at Loring Wine Co. Sabrine Rodems at Wrath. Dean DeKorth at Bernardus. Just a few of the wine industry superstars that rely on Santa Lucia Highlands’ fruit for their top vintages.

Eve’s Wine 101 Event Picks: Shakespeare and Love 2/11, Chocolate and Beer Tasting 2/12, Wine, Cheese and Chocolate 2/11, 2/12 and 2/14, Music and Wine 2/14, Lodi in LA 2/15, Sip and Learn 2/18, Beekeeper Cellars Release Parties 2/18 or 3/1, Rhone Rangers LA 3/25, Taste of the Valley 4/26, Masters of Taste 5/7. Ongoing: Events locally at Reyes Winery, Wine House events in WLA, LA Wine Tasting, Monopole Wine events in Pasadena and Eve does Wine Themed Parties. FIND EVE AT: WSET LEVEL ONE SAKE COURSE 2/18, THE UNIVERSAL WHISKY EXPERIENCE APRIL 5-8 AND WINE IN THE PINES JUNE 10.

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

Vintage Beacon Circa March 2010: Chile Came to Santa Clarita

December 22, 2015 by evebushman

On March 6 I interviewed Chef Tamra Levine about her inspired interpretation of Chilean fare for a wine pairing dinner at Salt Creek Grille. A month later, and I’m still ranting about it. But the difference is that I’ve now had the dinner.

You may have remembered last Thursday.

The winds whipped up to try and keep us all nestled indoors. But, at exactly 6:15, after I had whipped my own coif up into a tightly fastened “do”, it all calmed down.

I had to imagine that the same thing might be happening in the kitchens at Salt Creek Grille.

Along with their regular Thursday night bustle, they made an impressive inaugural debut in their catering department. And not any of the items were off of the menu; it was all created just for us.

Introduction: Chile 101

Whisked into the tightly tented outdoor bar unlike no other, guests were greeted with full flutes of sparkling wine – not on our printed menu.

From there we were seated, and like any classy event, were assigned to tables with people of like tastes. I was thrilled to find myself placed with Lil Lepore and Shari Fraizer, owners of Vino 100 Valencia. We enjoyed some fun “shop talk.”

Within minutes Greg Amsler, in between meetings for his man-of-the year nomination, welcomed us and introduced Tamra, who in turn, thanked us for attending the first of several regional wine pairing meals she had planned. I wanted her to tell the crowd that she is the only caterer and near sommelier in our valley equipped to create the meals and choose the wines for them, but being far more modest than I am, she instead introduced Alex Guarchi, president of TGIC Importers to talk to the crowd.

“I want to thank you all for taking the time to come to a dinner, during this recession. Taking the time for wine – if we don’t do that – there is something wrong with that picture.”

“Taste is very subjective I believe. You have to be open to the wine and food and let them speak for themselves. You will have light wines with the lighter food and then be introduced to bigger wines.”

“You’ve undoubtedly heard several do’s and don’ts with wine. Who here knows which fish is okay to have with a Pinot Noir?” To which Lil Lepore confidently answered, “Salmon!”

The Courses Begin

While Alex spoke, our first course arrived: Empanada de Camerone Humitas, Calabaza, Corn and Coconut soup with Pisco Sours. Pisco is a brandy made of Muscatel grapes in Chile and Peru; no one knows who created it first. The bar staff mixed it with egg whites, lime and sugar. The egg whites coated my tongue in a sugary glaze – the perfect aperitif to the soup and empanada.

Next came pan seared Chilean Sea Bass Moho paired with a low French oaked 2007 Santa Ema Reserve Chardonnay. Guests commented that the delicate fish balanced well with the wine.

Merken dusted Pheasant Breast Medallions stuffed with Chilean mushrooms made me wonder where you could get pheasant in SCV. Served over a bed of Chorizo laced Quinoa Risotto, I was surprised to learn from Tamra that the quinoa was an ancient grain and actually the seed of a plant. Paired with 2007 Montes Alpha Pinot Noir aged 12 months in French Oak, my palate was experiencing heaven.

Then, if that wasn’t enough, on came the Adobo Marinated Flank Steak with Chilean salsa, Potato and Onion Timbale and a 2005 Santa Ema Catalina. I was left to try and choose which of the reds I enjoyed more…and couldn’t do it.

Sneaking back to the kitchens to see the more-than-competent staff create the dessert, I shot some fun photos and then raced back as not to miss a bite. I did note that there was a friendly feel among them and I was happy to see that a meal this noteworthy could be managed so pleasantly.

My Dulce de Leche Ice Cream with raspberries, apricots and a to-die-for perfectly warmed Caramel Shot was accompanied by a 2008 Montes late harvest Gewurztraminer. I don’t usually eat desserts. I don’t usually enjoy late harvest wines. But, then again, I’d never had Chilean food in my life. It was not a night for usual tastes; it was one that was as Alex Guarchi had suggested, “Be open to the wine and food – and let them speak for themselves.”

2015 HARVEST: DRY CREEK VALLEY WINEGRAPE GROWERS ANTICIPATE SMALLER YIELDS, EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY

September 3, 2015 by evebushman

Winegrowers of Dry Creek Valley kick off this harvest season with a positive forecast amidst California’s ongoing drought.

HEALDSBURG, Calif. – AUGUST 18 – Winegrowers of Dry Creek Valley (WDCV) expect the 2015 winegrape harvest to yield exceptional quality fruit in smaller quantities than the last three vintages, which were larger than normal throughout most of the state of California. Picking began earlier than usual this year, with David Coffaro Estate and Amista Vineyards harvesting grapes for their sparkling wines on July 29 and August 3, respectively. In 2014, Amista Vineyards harvested for their blanc de blanc two days later on August 5.

For still wines, many white grapes have already become ripe for picking. Preston Farm and Winery began harvesting sauvignon blanc on Tuesday, August 11. Pedroncelli Winery will harvest their sauvignon blanc this week. “This is within a few days of last year’s harvest,” says Montse Reece, winemaker at Pedroncelli Winery.

Cameron Mauritson, Manager of Mauritson Farms and President of the Winegrowers of Dry Creek Valley, anticipates starting to harvest in the middle of August, about 10-14 days ahead of last year. “We have been blessed with wonderful California weather that has sped things up. The crop looks beautiful with looser clusters than normal and small berries that should yield robust flavors. Winemakers should have the weather patterns to produce stylistic wines,” he says.

Ridge Vineyards reported their earliest zinfandel harvest on record in their East Bench Vineyard. “The dry, warm weather we had from February through April led to a very early bloom and thus the record start to the harvest,” says Will Thomas, Ridge Vineyards’ Sonoma County Viticulturist.

The harvest season will continue for the next two months, with the harvest of Bordeaux varieties including merlot and cabernet sauvignon in September and late-ripening grapes like mourvedre grapes and late-harvest zinfandel in October.

Several years of drought in California affected farmers all over the state, but Dry Creek Valley winegrowers seize the opportunity to learn from the challenges they face. Mauritson explains, “The drought has been an opportunity for many growers to look closely at their soil health and make sure they are maximizing the available water holding capacity of the vineyard site so vines can survive as long as possible by natural rainfall.
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”

Tim Bell, winemaker at Dry Creek Vineyard, says that last year at the winery’s Endeavour Vineyard, they cut back on the number of vine shoots and grape clusters to reduce water demand, but were pleased to find out that they could get by with even less water than they planned for.

Despite the resilience of the grapes and their growers, many expressed hope for some relief from the drought.
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“We’re praying that the El Niño predictions for a wet winter play out in the right way: plenty of rain spread out over time and cold enough storms to pack the Sierras with snow,” says Bell.

About Winegrowers of Dry Creek Valley

The Winegrowers of Dry Creek Valley® (WDCV) is an association of more than 60 wineries and 150 growers, of which more than 95 percent are small, family-owned operations. WDCV is dedicated to advancing the recognition, enhancement and preservation of Dry Creek Valley as a premium winegrowing region. Anchored by the charming town of Healdsburg, the Dry Creek Valley appellation was officially designated in 1983. Known as a premier zinfandel growing region, Dry Creek Valley is one of California’s oldest wine producing regions and is home to many heritage vineyards ranging in age from 50 to 120 years. To preserve this history and the valley’s pristine beauty, the Winegrowers of Dry Creek Valley supports sustainable viticulture and low-impact farming practices. www.drycreekvalley.org/

Rockin’ and Rollin’ with the Garagistes at the Wiltern

August 1, 2015 by evebushman

The first time Doug Minnick, co-founder with Stewart McLennan of the Garagiste Festivals, told me the Wiltern was going to host the latest version of the event, I was a little concerned. Were they just going to use the stage? If not, what about all the seats? Well, it turned out the seats are removable and the entire venue became “the stage” for the wineries to showcase their latest releases – and more!

When you think about it, the Wiltern does make sense from a poetic point of view. Not only did Doug have a long career in music production, but the Wiltern has had many legendary acts perform on its stage and now presents many “indie” rockers on a regular basis. And the Garagistes, with their small production and hands-on / no rules style of winemaking, are certainly the indie rockers of the wine world.

As with many wine festivals, there were two levels of ticket pricing. And also as usual, the VIP level was well worth the additional cost. Not only did you get in early, but there was an added bonus as most of the wineries also poured for the VIP attendees their “Rare & Reserve” selections – a combination of older vintages as well as unleased barrel samples.

Eve has already reported on the Rare & Reserve wines (West Ranch Beacon 7/24/15) so I focused on tasting as many full winery lineups as I could do justice to. And while I visited barely a third of the winery tables, these are the wines that made the biggest impression on me – note that the wines listed are the ones I liked the most at the tables I managed to visit.

Alta Colina Vineyards

Paso Robles

The tables were set up alphabetically, but I wasn’t sorry to see Maggie Tillman of Alta Colina. Been a fan of her family’s wines since Doug Minnick introduced me to them a few years ago. The Block 2 Bio Syrah was my wine of the day.

2014 Grenache Blanc

2011 GSM

2011 Old 900 Syrah

2011 Block 2 Bio Syrah

Artisan Uprising

Paso Robles

I’ve been hearing a lot of good things about the wines being made by brothers David and William Vondrasek. Glad I finally got to taste them.

2014 Rose of Merlot

2012 Malbec

2012 Petite Sirah

Bellissimo Cellars

Santa Barbara

I’ve already tasted winemaker Lora Marie Taylor’s Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. I was excited to taste the new vintage Chardonnay barrel sample but even more impressed by her early, non-commercial Sangiovese. I can’t wait until she releases a Bellissimo Cellars Sangio.

2012 Sangiovese, White Hawk Vineyard

2011 Sangiovese, Montecucco Vineyard

2014 Chardonnay, Duvarita Vineyard, Mount Eden – Barrel Sample

Mattina Fiore

Central Coast

Owners Scott and Andrea Williams’ wines were delicious and elegant when I tasted them at Family Winemakers a few months back. I didn’t taste everything at their table this time, but I did enjoy their latest Rose, finally got to taste their dessert wine and was impressed how the GSM was showing with a little more time in the bottle.

2014 Saignee Rose

2013 Late Harvest Viognier

2012 Buona Derrata GSM

MCV Wines

Paso Robles

I first reported on Matt Villard’s wines in early 2014, so it was nice to catch up a little. Matt has since moved from the cooperative tasting room he was at in the southern end of Paso and now has his own tasting room in Morro Bay. Pretty sweet digs for a pretty great winemaker. I’m a fan of his red blends, while my wife Karen loved the perfume of the Viognier.

2014 Pink

2014 Viognier

2013 1105 Blend

2011 1105 Blend

Overland Wines

Sonoma

I’ve been familiar with the Kick Ranch vineyard due to my fondness for Morgan Twain-Peterson’s Bedrock wines, as he has used this vineyard, among many others. I was sad to hear that Morgan won’t be using Kick Ranch fruit anymore, but glad to have a new source for wine from this property – the owners themselves. Especially love the dark brooding 2010 Petite Sirah.

2013 “Kick Ranch” Sauvignon Blanc

2013 “Kick Ranch” Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc

2013 “Kick Ranch” Petite Sirah

2010 “Kick Ranch” Petite Sirah

Pulchella Winery

Paso Robles

SCV residents Nate Hasper and Steve Lemley continue to source great Paso Robles fruit for their wines. I love that they are bringing attention to lesser known grapes like Tannat.

2013 “Watchdog” Tempranillo

2013 “Awakening” Tannat / Syrah

2013 “Henchman” Tannat

Shai Cellars

Santa Barbara

I was first introduced to Shai Cellars by Goddess of Wine Denise Lowe, and there she was pouring alongside Shawn Shai Halahmy. Really did a great job with that Grenache, an absolute steal at $24 per bottle.

2009 Adome [Syrah / Cabernet]

2009 Grenache

Stanger Vineyards

Paso Robles

Winemaker JP French was his usual charming self. The Stanger wines always have a little extra age on them, and it really shows in how well the blends integrate.

2008 Syrah

2009 Bench [Syrah, Cabernet, Tempranillo]

2010 Master [Cabernet, Syrah, Tempranillo]

TLO Wines

San Luis Obispo

The friend helping the owner of Overland Wines suggested we be sure to visit his daughter-in-law at TLO. We were planning to anyway, but this was just a little more incentive. His daughter –in-law Avery is director of marketing for TLO and daughter of founder/winemaker Andy Zaninovich.

2012 GSM

2011 Tempranillo

Two Shepherds

Sonoma

To me, William Allen epitomizes the garagiste movement. He makes the wines he wants in the style he wants, primarily Rhones. I was most impressed with his whites, especially the Grenache Gris and Trousseau Gris, varietals I had not had before.

2014 Grenache Rose, Ceja Farms, Sonoma Coast

2013 Grenache Blanc, Saarloos Vineyard, Santa Ynez

2013 Grenache Gris, Gibson Ranch, Mendocino

2013 Trousseau Gris, Russian River, Fanucchi Vineyard

Vinemark Cellars

Paso Robles

I’ve been following winemaker Mark Wasserman since I first tasted his wines a couple years ago. Especially liked the Mezzanotte, a blend of Petite Sirah and Primitivo.

2013 Primitivo

2013 Cabernet Franc

2013 Petite Sirah

2012 Mezzanotte Blend

Vines on the Marycrest

Paso Robles

Always nice to see Jennifer and Victor Abascal. First tasted their wines at an event several years ago on the Queen Mary, which I just found out was the first event they had poured at. Still great people turning out stylish wines. And I love that the last wine I am listing has a rock and roll theme.

2014 Summertime Rose

2012 My Generation Red Blend

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

Learning About The Consortium of Brunello di Montalcino Wine Part 2

March 6, 2015 by evebushman

Before the event (Wine 101 Moves Up: Leccio Gold Award-Winning Valentino Restaurant Paired with 2010 Brunello di Montalcino, Part One, 2/27/15) I received a 12-page press packet to familiarize myself with the Consortium: the history, the wine and the people. Among other things I learned:

The Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino was created in 1967 right after the recognition of its D.O.C., as a free association of producers, intent on safeguarding their wine.

The four denominations of wine for the region include Brunello di Montalcino, Rosso di Montalcino, Moscadello di Montalcino, and Sant’Antimo.

There are 250 producers in the Consortium that combined total 3,500 hectares of vineyards.

Brunello is obtained exclusively from Sangiovese grapes (locally known as “Brunello” grapes) grown within the territory of the Montalcino township.

The wine is currently considered the “diamond edge” of Italian production.

The main feature of Brunello is its long aging before being put on the market.

The oldest bottled Brunello is dated 1888 and kept in the cellars of the Tenuta Il Greppo.

The name Brunello can be given solely to wine produced and bottled within the township of Montalcino.

Brunello di Montalcino can undergo long aging, improving as time goes on from a minimum of 10 years up to 30 years.

Brunello di Montalcino “must be served in widely shaped crystal glasses” to fully appreciate the wine’s bouquet.

While Brunello is “destined for long aging”, the Rosso di Montalcino is considered a “younger brother” with more liveliness.

Moscadello di Montalcino is a dessert wine produced in still, sparkling and late harvest types.

Sant’Antimo produces both red and white wines from several different grape varieties.

Facebook album link: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10205002877299055.1073741901.1455706632&type=1&l=04d543c01c

About Valentino Santa Monica

Piero Selvaggio and VALENTINO have made a significant contribution to the Los Angeles restaurant scene for over forty two years, introducing authentic Italian products, wine and regional cuisine to the public and nurturing many of our most influential chefs and restaurateurs. Selvaggio was recently recognized for his achievement in Angeleno and Wine Spectator magazines in October 2012. VALENTINO was named among the best Italian restaurants in the United States by Travel & Leisure and The Daily Meal. The restaurant was named among the thirteen restaurants that changed the Los Angeles dining scene by Zagat.comin 2012 and awarded Top 10 Romantic Restaurants, Top 10 Wine Lists, Top 10 Italian Restaurants in Los Angeles by Gayot.comin 2012. In 2013 Piero Selvaggio was one of five recipients of the prestigious Grana Padano Italian Cuisine Worldwide Awards and was also profiled for the “Lifer” interview in Eater LA about his legendary career the same year. With its intimate dining rooms, unsurpassed wine cellar, and the consummate graciousness of owner Piero Selvaggio, VALENTINO remains the favored destination for some of the best dining in Los Angeles.

3115 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401

310.829.4313

http://www.valentinosantamonica.com

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years. She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a guest judge for the L.A. International Wine Competition. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits that may be answered in a future column. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Eve Wine 101: Your First Time Tasting

December 19, 2014 by evebushman

An athletic instructor who had never had wine in her life but was willing to try, was faced with a dilemma recently when she attended a holiday party. Her host prompted her to select a wine that she already liked. When she explained she’d never had any, she was told to just pick whatever looks good…again…she had no way to judge but knew enough not to judge a wine (or anything) on pretty labeling. I told her I had some ideas for her and would write about it.

Eat This and Drink That

I’m going to make some suggestions to help my pal, we’ll call her “AI”, navigate through some wine. Based on what flavors she already likes to eat or drink, I will find a wine varietal that might compare. Any varietal (a particular grape) I may suggest would be found on the front label, usually under the name of the winery if the wine is made in the United States. Lets try:

If you like your coffee or tea with sweetener – try wines labeled with grapes such as Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling wine like Prosecco from Italy. These wines can have a slightly sweet quality. If you want more sweetener in your drink try a wine labeled as “late harvest”, “dessert” or “ice wine.” Some of these grapes were left on the vine longer and have more sugar. They can be easy to spot as they usually come in a bottle half the size as a regular wine bottle.

If you like your coffee or tea black, this may translate to a wine full of tannins – try a couple of red wines, like a California Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel, and see what appeals to you. If these are not the reds offered, select one that appears to be dark, that may mean that it is from a black grape and/or the skins were left on longer. Either option may allow for a more tannic/dry wine.

Are you a chocolate fan? Try a red Port wine, which is a fortified wine and fairly sweet. If the wine is still not sweet enough for you, lay a piece of chocolate onto your tongue and roll your wine over that before swallowing. This trick works to make almost any red wine sweeter, and more palatable for some.

Do you go for cheese and crackers? Try a French Champagne, or a domestic sparkling wine that the label says was made in the Champagne or champenoise method. The winemaking process sometimes results in toast and cheese aromas and flavors.

Note: Whatever you do start by tasting like a professional. Pour only a small amount, say an ounce or two into your glass. Give it a swirl, then a sniff, and a taste. If you don’t like the wine, pour into a spit bucket. As some homes don’t put these out, go to the kitchen sink and pour in there. If asked you can say that you prefer to sample a wine before committing to a glass, and that you are watching your inebriation – the latter might help as an example to others to do the same. You don’t need to try everything offered, settle on one you like and enjoy your glass. And, as this may be your first experience with wine it may hit you harder than what you normally drink, even if what you normally drink has more alcohol. It’s all about what your body is used to.

Perlis Picks: Collier Falls

November 22, 2014 by Michael Perlis

Collier Falls

http://www.collierfalls.com/

A recurring theme during our recent visit to Sonoma was the early and quick harvest. Typically, with our visit happening in early October, there would have been plenty of grapes still on the vines. Not so this year. But, that didn’t make our hour-plus ATV vineyard tour with Barry Collier at Collier Falls anything less than an adventure-and-a-half. With the grapevines planted on steep hillsides and Barry navigating the turns like the seasoned veteran that he is, I swear I could hear the Indiana Jones theme song playing in my head. And there were still enough grapes on the vines, slightly raisined and very sweet, to satisfy that need as well.

I’ve known Barry for a few years, typically bumping into him at events such as Family Winemakers, Stars of Cabernet and most recently at the Sonoma In The City tasting in Beverly Hills. I’ve always been impressed by his wines as well as his passion and seemingly tireless energy for making wine and talking about it. But what has always intrigued me most is that he bottles both a Zinfandel and Primitivo and is very careful and adamant about distinguishing between the two.

Some winery owners have said to me that Zinfandel and Primitivo are the same, that Primitivo is just a type of Zinfandel. In other words, Primitivo can be legally labeled as Zinfandel but only Primitivo can also be labeled as Primitivo. Barry points out that they are in fact two different grapes with a common heritage, and when you see them side by side and even more importantly taste them side by side the differences are evident.

Barry can explain it better than I can:

“First of all, the clusters are totally different. While the Zin cluster generally has a shoulder or wing adding to the weight which can be 1 and 1/2 pounds on its own, the Primitivo cluster is half that size. Also the Zin berry is about the size of your thumb nail, the Primitivo is about the size of your pinky nail. These differences give you an idea of what the fruit offers as well. The Zin is big, juicy and aromatic with soft tannins and a slightly lighter complexion while the Primitivo is a little darker, denser and with more backbone, more of an Old World wine. While I’d pair the Zin with Duck breast or even Ahi Tuna, I’d pair the Primitivo with Spare Ribs off the grill or Pepperoni Pizza.”

But Barry and Collier Falls are not just about Zinfandel and Primitivo. In fact, after Barry left his successful music and movie production careers, he and his wife Susan acquired the Collier Falls property because they wanted to make world class Cabernet Sauvignon on the steep hillsides. They accomplished that and more, also making excellent Petite Sirah and Syrah. But, the area is well known for Zinfandel, and with Zinfandel grapes already planted on the property, Barry took the novel approach of interplanting Primitivo vines with the Zinfandel, ultimately producing delicious versions of both varietals.

Sadly, Susan passed away in 2007 from ALS.

Per the Collier Falls website: “Her passion for agriculture and wine, her appreciation of nature, and her infectious love of life, people and Sonoma County are represented in every bottle of Collier Falls we produce. Our Syrah du Soleil is in her honor, and comes from vineyards she helped plant. 100% of the proceeds from this special wine are donated to ALS research.”

Barry and his two sons carry on the tradition of producing excellent and exciting wine. After our tour of the vineyards, we headed to the tasting room to taste some of the current releases. [No tasting on the vineyard tour here – I like my wine swirled, not shaken!]

The tasting room is actually located a few miles back down Dry Creek road, in the cooperative Family Wineries http://familywines.com/ tasting room that Barry founded in 2005. Here you can taste not only the Collier Falls wines, but wines from Dashe Cellars, Forth Vineyards, Lago di Merlo, Mietz Cellars and Philip Staley. Indeed, with additional tasting rooms in the adjacent center, one could spend the better part of a day here.

We tasted the Collier Falls 2011 Zinfandel, 2011 Primitivo, 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2011 Late Harvest Primitivo. All the wines are made from estate fruit. The Zinfandel showed classic Dry Creek fruit without being overpowering, and the Cabernet Sauvignon was one of the more approachable Cabs that I’ve had – something about that hillside fruit. I am always drawn to the Primitivo and its richness. You should definitely visit this tasting room, and if you can arrange with Barry for a vineyard tour you’ll be in for a real adventure.