Why Not Have…Drinking Goals for 2018? And No, it’s not too late to set them!

January 26, 2018 by evebushman

I’m not a person that makes new year resolutions often. It’s such a joke to set some very far-off sounding goal only to not even achieve it – as that’s become the norm. You can try and fool the system by setting goals that are simple to attain like…planning ahead for the next year’s resolutions you won’t be achieving! Egads, we’ve really become slackers.

So, in between not making resolutions at all or making resolutions that are too easy to achieve I challenge you to set some drinking resolutions. And feel free to be as lax as you want in reaching them – as it won’t matter to anyone whether you do or not! LOL.

These are my Drinking Goals for 2018, none of which requires over-imbibing but if you do please Uber:

Go to a tequila and/or Mezcal tasting as neither are in my comfort zone.

Go to more wine tastings of areas I’m unfamiliar with: Portugal (and not for the Port alone), Republic of Georgia, Finger Lakes…where else? Check out this CNN article on some lesser known wine areas.

Take advantage of more courses, maybe even a new certification, offered via my NASA (North American Sommelier Association) membership.

Frequent our local wine bars (Valencia Wine Company, Wine 661, Lee’s Wine Bistro, Newhall Press Room), winery tasting rooms (Pulchella, Double Trouble) and restaurants with fine wine lists (Le Chene, Newhall Refinery, Larsen’s, Greg’s List at Salt Creek Grille) more often.

Make it to the Japanese Food and Restaurant Expo put on by Mutual Trading again to further my education on Soju, Sake, beer and Japanese wine…all while sampling some delectable foods.

Continue to work with the WiSH Education Foundation to bring a new event to Old Town Newhall. Look for Wine Under the Stars early May where we will have wines culled from the latest winemakers making wine at the SCV Custom Crush Services paired with dishes from several different local restaurants. We will be the first to host an event on the rooftop of our new Laemmle theater.

Continue to work with our WiSH committee to bring in new spirit vendors to Cocktails on the Roof. This year marks our fourth year! (Save the date 9/7!) Last year our new vendor was Pomp and Whimsy Gin Liqueur and they said it was the best event they had ever poured at! (If you rep a spirit vendor and want your product seen in the first and only premier cocktail event Santa Clarita Valley email me: eve@evewine101.com)

Continue looking for the Spirits One Level now offered globally from WSET (Wine and Spirits Education Trust) since my Level Two in both isn’t transferable to take a Level 2 or 3 in Spirits alone. Haven’t found one offered remotely near me yet!

Get back to Denver to visit Stranahan’s again, see if I can get a taste of their annually made limited edition bourbon whiskey.

Get back to Park City to go to High West Distillery again as some of their spirits aren’t sold in here in California.

Continue my education on peated single malt whisky by attending LA Scotch Club’s annual Peatin’ Meetin’ again.

Take more classes at the Nth Show aka Universal Whisky Experience in Vegas early April…even though my husband may ditch me just to taste.

Make it to at least one meeting, aka tasting, of the no-longer-new LA Chapter of Women Who Whisky Club!

I hope to receive a comment or an email (eve@evewine101.com) with what your drinking resolutions are, I had so much fun making up mine!

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

Vintage Eve Circa Jan 2013: Eve’s Wine 101 on TV!

February 21, 2017 by evebushman

What the plan was: As written below. The way it turned out: Watch for yourself – link. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-jEoXlDHa8)

Tami or Dave: Would going to a wine fest be a good idea for a first date?

Eve: Absolutely! Things to consider: If you invite a woman to a wine event, because she appreciates wine, let her know exactly what the extent of your own knowledge is. I can’t believe how little I knew at my first event, and how I’ll never learn it all. So, don’t fake your knowledge, she will spot that. And, don’t over drink, as you are driving your date home.

Tami or Dave: What about couple time?

Eve: There is no better way to get into a romantic mood with your partner than over wine. As you progress from tasting table to tasting table, take a moment to talk about the aromas and flavors you are getting. The time spent savoring wine easily translates for a couple that enjoys savoring life together. Don’t rush it!

Tami or Dave: Okay that leaves friends, is going to a wine tasting with friends a good idea?
Eve: Again, yes. For me, unless someone declares themselves a designated driver in advance (the key is it needs to be in advance) rent a nice limousine. The drive from Santa Clarita to the Sierra Pelona wine event is beautiful! Rolling hills and valleys, seeing it from a limo is probably the best way to go, with friends, a first date or with your spouse!

Tami or Dave: Okay, now, tell us, as you call yourself the SCV Wine Conduit, how does one behave at a wine fest? I mean, are there rules?

Eve: If you want to ensure a good time, yes, I have a few pointers. Winery representatives or winemakers will pour most wines. Each should be versed at answering questions about their wines and are interested in what you think.

With that said, don’t be in a hurry. If the line at one table is long, go to another, and swing back to the one you missed later. When you receive your 1 to 2 ounce taste be aware if others are waiting, if they are, back up a bit to let them in. If there isn’t a wait, take some time, swirl your glass to open up the aromas, and comment on what you find. Swirl again before tasting, and let your taste linger over your tongue and mouth before swallowing, again to detect taste and overall mouth feel. Share your thoughts with the server. Discard what is left in your glass, whether you like it or not, expectorating is also encouraged. The goal at an event isn’t to get drunk, the goal is to keep your palate fresh enough that you can appreciate your first pour as much as your 40^th.

Tami or Dave: Are you going to the Sierra Pelona Wine Fest? Why do you think locals will enjoy it?

Eve: Anytime an inaugural wine fest is planned, wine people and regular people are curious. This brilliant idea of Robert’s not only serves the community’s Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital but also introduces the greater area to one of the newest wine growing areas. And Robert, joined by dozens of others, will be showcasing wines that haven’t been already poured at dozens of other festivals.

Tami or Dave: So, where else can we go for wine in Santa Clarita – and not be intimidated?

Eve: Every place that serves wine serves the wine community best by not making it intimidating. Your local wine bars like Wine 661, Roman Holiday Wine Lounge, Lee’s Wine Bistro and Valencia Wine Company, as well as Pulchella Wine Tasting Room and our wine-serving restaurants all have the same goal: to get you in and to make you want to come back. They do this by talking to you about what you like, and then making suggestions based on that.

Of course, reading my blog, or following me on Facebook helps too…a little wine 101 knowledge can help you feel less intimidated.

Tami or Dave: How much is there, really, to learn about wine?

Eve: The education never ends. But like with any entrepreneurial effort, if your heart is in the work, you just don’t care. I read trade magazines, fiction and non-fiction, the internet and take classes. I’m never bored, and always “thirsty” for more. I would bet this conversation has given you two a craving?

Tell people any more tricks of the trade – especially for the Sierra Pelona event.

Eve: Well…if you are very nice to a winery representative, they often have something “under the table” that they share with other reps or especially nice guests. Sometimes…you might even leave with a bottle! (But don’t be pushy and ask for one.) And, talk to other guests. By the end of a tasting a camaraderie begins to develop. Tell people what you liked and find out what their favorites were. You can even revisit a favorite of your own, to see if it fares just as well with your palate.

Eve’s Holiday Picks for Wine and Spirit Themed Gifts 2016 Edition

November 25, 2016 by evebushman

Every year I put out a sort of “Eve Picks” for your holiday shopping – well, every year that I remember to do it – as in my own quest for the unique, year after year, I come across a few winners. This is what made my 2016 list:

Look for Trixie and Milo booze-themed gifts at Ma Maison.

CapaBunga Service and Storage for Wine and Cheese: Winemaker Michel Ayer, of Workman Ayer (one of my fave wineries in the Central Coast) said to try anything made by husband and wife Maire Murphy and Walt Averill. I looked into their site based on his recommendation and saw these neat protective and pretty “cheese vaults” for your artisan delicacies, the full line-up of their CapaBunga wine bottle sealers and a new way to identify wine glasses.

Lee’s Wine Bistro: Has the largest local selection of cellared vintage wine for sale.

Ma Maison: Home furnishings for your bar and table take a unique turn at Ma Maison with items I haven’t seen over and over again elsewhere. I’ve bought bar towels, trinkets and the absolutely grandest portable vintage inspired bar: The Madison Table Top Bar that my husband loves showing off. Even better: You can get shopping done here for those dreaded people on your list that don’t imbibe. I also contacted store owner Denise Meyers to find out what was new and she said they have a “great new line called Trixie and Milo. Very cool vintage art look flasks, beer sleeves, wooden trays, cocktail shakers and portable shot glasses. This is a great gift item for Hipsters and the Well seasoned.”

Kym’s Kreations: I’m all in for my friend Kym Cappi’s “Uncorked Kreations”. I’ve got the cork necklace with earrings to match, a framed “Press for wine” wooden plaque and my eye on her personalized barrel staves.

12 Bottle Bar Book: So many reasons to buy this book, for me it was that I knew the local authors, David and Lesley Solmonson, the recipes were pretty easy but extremely unique, and after trying out The Buck Bar for guests its become an oft-requested party pleaser. Here is my review.

Wine 661: Shop owner Tanya Green has always offered a whopping 25% discount for all bottles purchased to take home. She also has plenty of wine themed items to go along with said bottles. I end up getting at least one thing for me and one for a pal.

Valencia Wine Company: Besides ready-to-go chilled still and sparkling wines, and vintage wines, this time of year you can also find the perfect decorative cases to hold them. Check it out.

Cocktail Kingdom: Turned onto this website by Bar Toscana mixologist William Perbellini during a cocktail class, I have purchased my share of killer bar tools from this site. Currently getting my attention are their 3 ounce to 6 ounce coupe glasses for my favorite Manhattan, as well as other vintage-inspired glassware and the “detailed craftsmanship” in their reserve collection.

Wine of the Month Club: Baskets galore in every possible theme, my favorite is for the chocolate lovers as well as some very cool accessories, wines, and, of course, wine club memberships you can buy as a gift.

And my biggest new find this year is a website called Chris’s Stuff that wine friend Kathie Weitzman turned me on to. She had this cute little black purse that had a rhinestone covered wine glass closure. I ordered mine (it’s now sold out!) then couldn’t resist dangling white wine earrings, cocktail napkins and a wine-themed blank card set. Lots more items like nostalgic aprons, coasters, towels, clothing, wine bags, kitchen gadgets all more reasonably priced than I’ve seen before.

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 April/2011: Goddess Night

December 29, 2015 by evebushman

There was more than one Goddess braving the SCV cold in nothing but a toga and a ceremonial grapevine headdress on one recent Friday night. Me, as the temporary Goddess for Circle of Hope’s Vine 2 Wine event in June, and the Goddess of Wine, a fellow-wine blogger, wine educator, WSET Level Two Certified, lucky-for-me-she-lives-in-Burbank-and-can’t-take-my-peeps-home-with-her, buddy Denise Lowe.

No, we weren’t really wearing togas. But I can tell you that we both carry waiter’s corkscrews, business cards, notepad and pen, wherever we go.

I’ve interviewed Denise before for the Beacon. While we both have blogging and the WSET certification in common, she does much more wine education and traveling than I do while I do more writing and marketing than she does. We learn a lot from each other, and we keep each other motivated. She also drives up, with her affable husband John Dickey, “JD”, every month to attend our Grape of the Night meetings.

This time, instead of an interview, I invited my pal to visit some of the wine bars in our fair city.

As we had taken our WSET classes at The Cellar together, and we attend Grape of the Night at Valencia Wine Company, I tried to squeeze in visits to some the wine bars she hadn’t been to.

So, with that in mind, I asked her to come to my house by 4:30 p.m. to get started. (I think she MAY have been motivated to see the new kitchen too!) From my place we drove over to Vino 100 Valencia for a tasting from Toolbox Wine Company that was set to start at 5 pm. And, as I had advertised the event on Facebook, and rsvp’d to a meet-up of “Wine-y Women”, I was sure to run into a few peeps to introduce Denise to.

Kathy Lockhart, the organizer for Wine-y Women had written this in her invite:

Toolbox Wine Company was created by three Napa Valley girlfriends who share passion and expertise in all facets of the wine industry. Their vision is to offer excellent (and fun) wines while raising awareness and money for Habitat for Humanity. With their catchy label, they prove that you cannot “judge a book by its cover”. They have successfully produced some wonderful, fun wines that are high quality and affordable. Meet Katie Hamilton Shaffer, co-founder of Toolbox Wine Co., who is looking forward to sharing their story and passion for wine. Enjoy tasting several of their newest releases. Light, tasty appetizers will also be served. HOPE YOU WILL JOIN US!

By 5:05 pm, we were well into the tasting and Denise had met both Lil LePore and Shari Frazier, the owners of Vino 100, some of the Wine-y Women (Kathy Lockhart, Rhona Jukes, Denise Van Arsdale-West, Kat Kombrinck, Pam Ingram…) and some pals of my own (Shipwreck Bob Schwemmer, Beth Greenwald, Kym Pease Cappi, Ray Tippet, Judy Penman, Shawneen Rubay…)

Of the line-up that was poured, the 09 Clarksburg Pinot Grigio, with .2% Muscat, was my favorite. The nose was a lovely mix of pineapple, apricot, lemons and lime. The taste, bringing some of that fruit forward, had high acidity with a nice mouth-coating viscosity. Short finish that just made me want more. We also enjoyed:

07 Oak Knoll District Napa Valley Chardonnay – Pale honeyed-yellow color, aroma of oak and green apple, with medium acid and a medium finish.

07 Napa Valley Merlot – 10% Cab and 90% Merlot, “Chianti-style” per co-founder Katie Hamilton Shaffer. Very dark edge on the color and opaque throughout, the aroma had tons of black fruit with a surprising blueberry-sweet nose. And the taste was dry, medium tannins with blackberry jam and a medium finish.

07 Cabernet Sauvignon – Plum color, fresh berries and pine on the nose, ripe berry flavors, dry with a medium length.

From there we moved onto Lee’s Wine Bistro for dinner. Denise selected a wine that is meant to be savored with a meal: 2006 Villamedoro Montepulciano D’Abruzzo. Owner Lee Yoon was able to come over to say hello and chat, but not for long, as it was soon growing into a busy Friday night. Denise seemed to enjoy the place, as our laughter grew louder and louder to be heard over the music and other guests.

From there I drove across the street to Wine 661 to introduce Denise to Tanya Green, the owner, and to computer whiz Tony Wire, her boyfriend that is always at her side. Now it was time to order a wine by the glass, as we needed to slow down. We both had a blend by Trinitas Cellars in Mendocino. And, true to form, Tanya swirled the wine she poured into our glasses, making sure that our wine was ready for tasting. I also requested Tanya’s spa water – iced water infused with fresh cucumber – to cleanse our palates, and, eventually, move us Goddesses over from wine to water.

As we sipped and listened to the band, four last peeps made their entrance and met Denise. Tim and Erin Dixon, and, Mark and Ann Drexler, had stopped by to purchase a bottle to take home with them.

Funny, Denise lives in Burbank, as I mentioned earlier, and we have more wine bars in one small area that she does in her big city. It’s a wonder. Or, is it just our growing infrastructure, or demographics, meeting our needs? It doesn’t matter. When it comes to wine, it’s all good for Goddesses.

Vintage Beacon Circa 10/2010: Sip, Stroll and Savoring 2010

June 30, 2015 by evebushman

Last weekend the Soroptimists of Greater Santa Clarita Valley took the greater – and by far the best – part of our weekend with their third annual “Sip, Stroll and Savor the Sounds…The Wine Affair.”

The VIP Reception

A VIP reception was held exclusively for sponsors on Friday, October 15^th at the home of G. Marshall and Shelley Hann. This kickoff event featured a “battle” to name the “Top Chef of SCV”. Participating Chefs were: Hyatt Valencia Executive Chef Rolf Rothen, Robinson Ranch Executive Chef Efren Gonzalez, Celebrity Chef David Lawrence, Barcelona Executive Chef and Owner Dominic Lahmidi and TPC Executive Chef Daniel Otto.

Their creations were paired with wine from the Private Cellars of Robert Schwartz, John Geraci, Chip Sterndahl, TGIC Importers Inc. and Stellar Imports. The elegant evening also included treats from Babe’s Dessert Bar and Cakery, along with savory faire from one of my favorites: The Poached Pear.

Eve Ate and Drank: I kind of bee-lined it to Robert Schwartz as I had news for him. I had heard that the SCV Wine Classic was kaput. I figured this news would shock him into giving up more of his cellared wine to me now, since he couldn’t do it there anymore. I tasted Sea Smoke Ten Pinot Noir 03 and 04, Whitehall Lane Winery 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon, Colgin 2000 (This is where Robert wanted to explain to me what a Cult wine is and I disappointed him by knowing…a wine that you have to be on a long waiting list to get and not inexpensive by any means) and then…a flight of William Selyem Pinot Noirs.

With all of the other guests headed my way I only had time to note: 03 had Port aromas and flavors, 04 was perfectly balanced, 05 was a perfect example of ripe Pinot Noir and the 06 was full of bright red fruit. I could have had more of any of them…but I had plenty to keep me busy as Chef Daniel Otto, from TPC’s Oaks Grille and the winner of the Chef Battle that night, handed me a Colorado Lamb Chop with Grape reduction that took my breath away.

From the private cellar of Chip Sterndahl I tried an 06 Miner Benedetto and an 06 Anomaly Cabernet Sauvignon. Both were outstanding. An a 06 Frank Family Reserve Zinfandel was later paired with Chef David Lawrence’s Chocolate Ganache Fleur de sel (with salt) that was served on a plate with chocolate dipped grapes. One guest called it, “Sex on a plate.”

I had an interesting Castillo De Monseran Old Vine Granacha from Spain that I really liked and a Montes Alpha Cabernet from Chile that was as tasty as I remembered it, both from my pal Chris Risdon from TGIC Importers. His wines were paired with food from Barcelona that included another lamb chop and empanadas filled with Brie and a grape sauce. Later, paired with an RL Buller Fine Muscat from Australia, was a dessert that I could only describe as possibly being a frothy crème fraiche over a graham cracker that was aptly called a “Dream Cake”.

John Geraci shared an 02 Aida Vineyard 29 red wine from his cellar while Efren Gonzales, of Robinson Ranch, had me pair it with his Proscuitto wrap of Mascarpone, golden raisins and roasted almonds. My mouth was having a little party…

I drank with Kris Hough, Annie Schwartz, Dora Zavala, Jo Ann Vindigni, Tora Brown, Billie Hubbard, Steve and Rose Chegwin, Jeff and Tamra Levine, Patrick and Laurie McIlrath, Jamie Alba, Greg Amsler, Michele Buttleman, John and Sheryl Geraci, Don and Cheri Fleming, Moe and Linda Hafizi, Terry Bucknall, Emily Chetner, Dustin Burkeybile, Scott and Pam Capistrano, Michael Marsalisi, Ed Masterson, Scott and Vanessa Wilk, Paul de la Cerda and Andrea Nelson, Robert and Darlene Gandara, Jeff Shapiro, Morris Thomas, Bob and Margo Hudson.

The Sip, Stroll and Savor the Sounds Event

Twelve venues featured wine tasting, food and live musical entertainment: La Via Bella, White House Black Market, Ro’Ma Jewelers, Salt Creek Grille, Valencia Wine Company, Glen Ivy Spa, South Point Grill, Carlton Hair International, Lee’s Wine Bistro, The Vines Restaurant, Pottery Barn and Sisley.

Vino 100 Valencia, Malibu Family Wines, Leona Valley Winery, Classic Wines, DiMaggio Washington (and me!) all poured at designated locations. Mojito Cuban Cuisine, Paseo Club, Wolf Creek, Trader Joe’s and Sprouts provided dining choices.

Featured music: Lee Yoon played records on his turntable at Lee’s Wine Bistro, the sultry sounds of Lindsay Hough, Stupid Pony, the Latin sounds of Ino Alvarez, Blue Sky, Jim Shrier, Fahr.west, Nicki Bente, Monkey Bump, Blue Baron Band, and Christine Day.

Eve Spilled:

Megan Gonzalez, one of the two owners of the Poached Pair catering company (that also donated their savory scones to Friday night’s event and to me once for a glowing review), and Lauren Lefkowitz Greber, local realtor extraordinaire, volunteered with me at Valencia Wine Company.

l-r Marlee Lauffer, Eve Bushman, working the Wine Affair.

You Found Waldo/Me (A little game I played with Eve Wine 101 peeps.) marking off your cards for each of the three allotted tastes. Once, when the wine ran out of wine I was allowed to pour.

I had so hoped that would be my opportunity to thank people again, on behalf of the Soroptimists, for supporting women’s health in Santa Clarita. But, he left me with two half bottles of wine and a line that stretched from the bar to the door.

My newly attained Level Two Wine & Spirits Education did not prepare me for that. Some guests wanted all three ounces at once, some wanted wine I didn’t have, some wanted to chat with me (which was the worst as I had no time) and I ended up going 30 minutes past my shift. (Until Soroptimist Vanessa Wilk rescued me and found my relief.)

Love to write, love to chat with peeps, but pour? I left that to the professionals. Kevin Osborne, the manager at Valencia Wine Company, stepped in and pulled a great Pinotage, and then a second, off the shelf and at once calmed the crowd.

Other volunteers I wanted to say hi to at the different stations but didn’t have time (Some stopped by mine for whine!) were Dora Zavala, John and Sheryl Geraci, Julie Sturgeon, Madison Schwartz, Marcy Gonzales, Marjanne Priest, Marlee Lauffer, Pam Ingram, Rose Chegwin, Tamra Levine, Tom Lukas and Tora Brown.

Support and Thanks

A portion of the proceeds from the Wine Affair will benefit organizations that support Women’s Health in the Santa Clarita Valley. October is breast cancer awareness month and this fundraiser fit in with the Soroptimist International of the Americas, Camino Real Region “Color Me Pink and Purple Campaign”. A portion of the day’s proceeds benefited the Sheila R. Veloz Breast Imaging Center on the campus of the Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital to help women who are unable to afford detection services. In the past years of the event the Soroptimists have donated $5,000 and $10,000 respectively.

The Title Sponsor was Robert Gandara of Secure Horizons; Vintner Sponsors Jeff and Kim Greiner; Barrel Club Sponsors: SCV Bank, Status Not Quo, Old Republic Title, Scott Wilk for College Board and Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital Foundation. Media Sponsors: The Signal, The Magazine of Santa Clarita and KHTS AM1220.

Jo Ann Vindigni, co-chaired the event along with Tamra Levine, Sheryl Geraci, Dora Zavala, Darlene Gandara, Shelley Hann, Tora Brown and Pam Capistrano. For more information, and a full list of sponsors, visit www.thewineaffair.org

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

Top FIVE Ways to Find Wine in Santa Clarita, Volunteers Welcome (Vintage Beacon Circa 8-09)

July 15, 2014 by evebushman

Do you have a favorite place for sipping vino in Santa Clarita? So do I. Of course this is going to be subjective. Your task is to look over my list and then use the comment section if you’d like to add to it. It’s not like I’m such a lush that I’ve been to every drinking establishment in Santa Clarita. But it is my column.

My Front Porch. Years ago when we moved from our second house in SCV to our third, we discovered Happy Valley. You know the oak tree on our city’s signs? They’re in my neighborhood. No tract housing, not many sidewalks, and, for us, a nice view at 5:01 PM. When my husband Eddie and I aren’t rushing out for dinner one of our favorite pastimes is to have a bottle of wine on our front porch and watch our neighbors coming home from work, the piano teacher’s arrival, the lone walker with two water bottles on her hips, the car washing, the cyclists…it’s not a Paris café but it’s home.

Your Front Porch. Granted this doesn’t happen as often as one of my neighbors usually shows up at 5:02 with her own glass on my porch. But, sometimes, we do mingle on hers or, if really lucky, the street gets coned off, neighbors bring a favorite dish, families don lawn chairs and liquor is abundant.

Every Wine Bar in Town. Of course we may live closer to one or another, which sometimes suits our tastes as the “Cheers” bar where everyone knows our name, but we love each and every one and hope they are all in business a very long time. Let’s list them alphabetically to be safe: All Corked Up, Aqua Dulce Vineyards, Lee’s Wine Bistro, Valencia Wine Company, Vino 100, Vintners Cellar, Wine 661 and soon, if we push our politicians, Pulchella Winery Tasting Room. Also, if I had my way, The Loose Goose Wine Society would come back.

Restaurants with Wine Lists: We like many restaurants, but some we bring in our own wine or settle with what they offer, I will stick to the ones with lists we like only. Le Chene has to be first as their wine list is Wine Spectator awarded. Then comes The Oaks Grille at TPC, Salt Creek Grille, Maru Sushi, The Social, Vines, Cavi Cucina Italiana, Wolf Creek, George’s Bistro.

Wine Tasting Groups: I highly recommend joining a wine tasting group for anyone interested in learning more about wine. Intimidating? You bet but you will learn so much more than just drinking socially or at big wine events. Eddie and I got invited to meet with the SCV Vintners and Growers Association and feel like we struck gold. We’ve learned about grape growing, wine making and what their varied education brings to a tasting. Next up for us is joining Rusty Sly (A writer on my blog that satisfies my Wine 102 readers) for his Grape of the Night.

Vintage Beacon Circa 3/09: Lisa’s Wine

March 11, 2014 by evebushman

There’s a new local flavor in town. You don’t have to leave your home to try it. Comes in many varieties and styles. And it involves wine, of course.

Lisa Madison is a beautiful blond. I wished she wasn’t. When I met her at Lee’s Wine Bistro last week to discuss her wine knowledge, interests and new home wine tastings I found her encircled by…people that weren’t me.

I had an appointment. I had an interview to conduct. I was supposed to find out what Wine U Up, the name for her Wine Shop at home business, was all about. Luckily for me the swarm of patient followers wanted to hear what she was all about too.

“I love wine. And not all wine. But I’ve given, and been to, a lot of tastings and this format is closest to vineyard wine tasting – except that it allows for more. I know a good wine when I have it whether it was in Napa, Santa Ynez, Paso Robles, France or Italy and now with these wines,” Lisa began.

“As a professional interior designer with formal training in design and art history, I bring a different level of sophistication to the table as your personal wine consultant. I like to entertain, have people over, and love event design,so this was a natural progression for me. The opportunity allows for flexibility and, meeting new people. (She was far more gracious to her hovering fans than I was…) I thought it would be a fun “night” job and be a good compliment to my design career.”

“First you set a date, then invite 10-15 friends to your home, provide glasses and appetizers and I do the rest,” she continued. “For $59 I bring 6 bottles of wine to sample – all limited production artisan wines made by our own winery with grapes from the best crops up and down California and the around the world .”

“People taste, order what they want and can even purchase wine glasses, join our wine club, order wines with custom labels, purchase artisan decanters, yummy looking baskets, gift boxes …all the things they may need. Some people really get into it, and I can recruit those to do it for themselves. I took a certified Wine Spectator course but you don’t have to, I just wanted to know as much as I could when I got started. Most of my training is from wine bars and tasting rooms.”

I looked forward to seeing Lisa, in her own home with her own guests, the following week for a follow up interview and, of course, to taste her wines for myself.

Change of Ownership Announced for All Corked Up Wine Storage

June 6, 2013 by evebushman

It’s official! After weeks of rumors and speculation, Yoon Lee, owner of Lee’s Wine Bistro in Valencia and one of the original partners of All Corked Up in 2004, has taken over the All Corked Up wine locker and storage business. We will get you more information as soon as we can, but for now please join us in wishing Lee best of luck in this venture!

All Corked Up

26340 Diamond Place

Santa Clarita, CA 91350

(661) 799-7979

June 1, 2013

Dear All Corked Up Members,

We are writing to you with some bittersweet news. After 7 1⁄2 years of enjoying wine with so many of you, we are leaving the wine business. It is time for us to turn our attention to other pursuits.

We are happy to say that the new owner is a familiar face to many of you. We have completed the sale of All Corked Up to Yoon Lee, (affectionately known as Lee) who currently owns and operates Lee’s Wine Bistro in Valencia.

The ownership change took effect June 1st 2013. Lee was an original partner of All Corked Up when we opened our doors in December of 2004.

He is intimately familiar with the operations and services All Corked Up provides and is a perfect fit to take the reins of what has been a wild ride for us in the wine business! Lee and his family currently reside in Santa Clarita and have developed many strong relationships within the wine industry.

We would like to take this moment to thank you for your many years of patronage. We know you will be in great hands with Lee as he is the consummate wine enthusiast and will take All Corked Up to new heights. He has many exciting plans in store, many of which you will be thrilled to be part of!

Lee can be reached at his restaurant at (661) 259-7754. He will be sending out a personal welcome letter to all of you in the very near future which will include his thoughts and plans as he moves forward. Until then please visit Lee at his Bistro and check out his fantastic wine, food and service you will come to know Lee for.

PLEASE IMMEDIATELY UPDATE THE SHIP-TO ADDRESS FOR YOUR WINE SHIPMENT(S):

Lee’s Wine Bistro

24510 Town Center Drive

Suite 310

Valencia, CA 91355

The new delivery address takes place immediately. Wine shipments delivered to the current address will no longer be accepted after June 14, 2013, so please update your records immediately. We really apologize for the inconvenience. But this situation could not be avoided.

Happy wine trails to you all.

Cheers,

Jay & Shelly

Eve Writes: The Classic Fills Your Glass: A Roomy Evening, Sweet Comments and Heaps of Thanks

August 31, 2012 by evebushman

Vine 2 Wine, in this its second year morphed with The SCV Wine Classic, has successfully created an event that leaves nothing, sans your own notes on the wines, left to the imagination. Let me explain…

Vine 2 Wine, run for nearly a decade by the former Betty Ferguson Foundation, was a lovely afternoon affair with wines to taste, a raffle, music, and great food in an event that would benefit and empower women in SCV. The Classic, run for two decades, was an evening affair that included personal cellar and winery donations, live music and a raffle that benefited the SCV Student Orchestra.

This year the two events, more than aptly tied together a second time by The SCV Wine Classic’s wine chair Jeff Jacobson and Circle of Hope’s Executive Director Ray Tippet, is now a night time affair and included three rooms inside the Santa Clarita Activities Center, samples from dozens of wineries, personal cellars, a taste of a 150 year old wine – with Abe Lincoln if one desired – an art exhibit, a raffle room, dessert room, dining options, live music and the Beer Garden of Hope.

For me, being able to wander freely from room to room, never encountering a line more than two people deep at any of the wine tables, and plenty of photo ops of happy people…equaled success!

(Note: All of the group photos I took were on assignment for The Magazine of Santa Clarita. Check the next issue to see up to 20 pics – and many more smiling faces. http://www.santaclaritamagazine.com)

Your Comments

Janice Murray: This years event was amazing. So many old friends I hadn’t seen in awhile, and many new friends and supporters. What a fun evening!

Jane Bettencort-Soto: I kept the glass with the smell of the 1863 pour, put it in a Ziploc last night and today I am smelling it every hour or so! I wonder how long it will last? I may never wash that glass again! It was such a thrill for me to experience this once in a life time opportunity especially with my family connection to Abe. (Six degrees of separation – as cousins – per Jane!)

Betty Herme: Fun times!

Ray Tippet: To Eve, Jeff, Patrick, Erin, Linda, Laura, Wendy, Doug, Eric, and Jimmy C. and the band plus the 98 other volunteers. This crazy event couldn’t have happen without you! Great Job! We had over 550 attendees along with the 98+Volunteers. If you weren’t there you missed a great event! Eve thanks for all the great coverage!

Bruce Fortine: What a great event and evening! Jimmy Carnelli (and Mom) were wonderful as were the attendees, food, wine (and beer too). All for a Class organization!

Maureen McKaughan: Great seeing you and so many other of our friends last night! Seemed like a big success!

Erin Woolf Hernandez: Oh what a great night! My legs are killing me from running around all night and I WISH I had partaken a little more in some of that fabulous wine…but I must say it sure was great to volunteer my time for such a meaningful cause!

Beth Peterson Greenwald: Simply fabulous! Well done!

Priscilla and Patrick Lundgren: Yes it was a wonderful event, we really enjoyed the 1999 Ridge and a Riesling that Lee (Lee’s Wine Bistro) was pouring.

Kim Larsen, PK Chocolates: Had a great time last night at the Vine 2 Wine Classic. Saw many friends, and made some fantastic contacts for some exciting future events.

Alex Slaten: We all had a good time and there were plenty of interesting new wines to try. Sign me up for next year!

Jennifer Chadwick: What a wonderful event…the wine was fabulous and I for one loved the cheese…maybe I’m biased? 🙂 It is always one of our favorite events and we at Salt Creek Grille are proud to have been involved again with The Circle of Hope’s Vine to Wine. Cheers and thanks again on a great event!

Roman Weiser: Well organized event, with ample space for everyone to enjoy.

Claudia Sheridan: There were many great wines presented, and what a treat to be able to taste the wines the Jacobsons were pouring. I look forward to next year’s event!

Denise Lowe: The cause was great, the wines were diverse, the people warm and friendly. It was a very nice event.

Laurie Morgan: It was very fun. Also, the Santa Clarita Artists’ Association had several members’ art exhibited. Added an extra nice ambiance.

Cancer survivor Wendy Warner Thrush: It wasn’t that long ago…you never forget the day, the time, nor what you were wearing, or who you were with, the day you are diagnosed with CANCER! I will try my best in words, and on Facebook to THANK everyone for contributing to The Vine 2 Wine Classic last evening. The activity center was packed with conversation, music, wine tasting, eating, beer sampling, dessert heaven, smiles, tears all for such a wonderful local cause. My heart is full of joy, and love for all my friends who worked so hard to make this a special evening for so many in our community of Santa Clarita who have or are fighting Breast Cancer…you are all appreciated and loved by ME! Thank you! A wonderful evening!

From Wine Chair Jeff Jacobson

I’m really excited that we were able to bring the Wine Classic back from the dead, along with Honest Abe Lincoln, who supervised our pouring a very rare Madeira from 1863, the year of his Gettysburg Address and the Emancipation Proclamation.

I am truly grateful for all the help from my wine committee members, Steve Cravitz and Zaheer Ali, for the support of the wineries and distributors who gave their wines and time, our library wine contributors who reached so deeply and generously into their personal wine cellars, to the wine pourers and other volunteers, without whom we couldn’t have staged the event, to the Betty Ferguson Foundation for handing their wonderful Vine 2 Wine event to the Circle of Hope, and for Ray Tippet, his staff and the Directors of the Circle of Hope, for bringing the event to the people of Santa Clarita. My family and I are proud that we were able to help with it.

Our sincere thanks goes to John Burton and Southern Wine & Spirits of So. CA and Kevin Byrne and Wine Warehouse, for their heroic support. Together, they recruited almost 20 wine tables.

Lastly, I want to thank everyone for attending our terrific event, and helping the Circle of Hope raise urgently needed funds to assist local uninsured and underinsured breast cancer victims and their families.

Jacobson’s Plans for 2013

We’re busy planning next year’s extravaganza, and we hope to offer a limited number of tastes of a very rare and amazing 1853 “King Pedro V” Port, in cask for 150+ years, to a limited number of people who, as with the 1863 Madeira, would like to arrange for their special taste. We hope to entice the late King Pedro V of Portugal to put in a special appearance at next year’s event.

We had fun with the “Gettysburg Address” and 1863 Madeira tie-in last weekend, but, the most notable event of 1853 seems to have been the invention of potato chips!

The Wine List

Campesino Cellars

Constellation Brands

Donati Family Vineyard

Estrella Creek Winery

Fess Parker Vineyard & Winery

Francis Coppola Winery

Freixenet USA / Gloria Ferrer

Italian Wines

Jackhammer Winery

Kenneth Volk Vineyards

Louis M. Martini Winery

J Lohr Vineyards and Wines

Lee’s Wine Bistro

Les Deux Chats Cellars

Meola Vineyards

Navarro Vineyards

Niven Family Estates

Non-Alcoholic Beverage Table

Nuggucciet Cellars

Old Creek Ranch Winery

Pedroncelli Winery

Pisoni Vineyards

Prestige Wine Imports

Pulchella Winery

Quady Winery

Red Wines of the World

Sparkling Wines

Stanger Vineyards

TOG (The Other Guys)

Treasury Wine Estates

Roman Holiday Wine Bar

Rosenthal – The Malibu Estate Wines

Sunrise Spirits & Food Co. Valencia

Vino V Wines

Wente Vineyards

Whitcraft Winery

Woodland Hills Wine Company

Young’s Market

Winery representatives included: Prestige Wine Imports, Freixenet USA / Gloria Ferrer, Francis Coppola Winery, Wente Vineyards and Constellation Brands, Whitcraft Winery, Treasury Wine Estates; Distributed by Southern Wine & Spirits of Southern California, J Lohr Vineyards and Wines, Niven Family Estates, Louis M. Martini Winery, Kenneth Volk Vineyards, Donati Family Vineyard, and Fess Parker Vineyard & Winery, Pedroncelli Winery, Rosenthal – The Malibu Estate Wines; Distributed by Wine Warehouse, Estrella Creek Winery, Meola Vineyards; Transat Trade, Jackhammer Winery; Topline Wine & Spirit Co., Les Deux Chats Cellars, Glendale, Navarro Vineyards, Pisoni Vineyards, Pulchella Winery, Nugucciet Cellars, Quady Winery, Old Creek Ranch Winery, Stanger Vineyards, Roman Holiday Wine Bar, Sunrise Spirits & Food Co., Woodland Hills Wine Company and Young’s Market; The Estates Group.

Library Wines
Donations of exceptional wines poured by our “friends,” from their personal wine cellars:

Chris and Jeannie Carpenter

Roger and Gwen Gertz

Les Hershberger and Mamie Wong

Jeff, Joan and Julie Jacobson

Julie Jacobson holding one wine I liked - she didn't have enough arms for all of the wine I dug!

Robert and Annie Schwartz

Thank You From Circle of Hope (Excerpt from Program)

Thank you to the Betty Ferguson Foundation for allowing us to continue on this prized tradition. Thank you to Jeff Jacobson, our wine director, for donating countless hours of his time, bringing back the classic, and melding these two great events into what has become the Vine 2 Wine classic. We are extremely grateful for the fabulous wineries and merchants Jeff has invited to participate in this evening’s event.

Thank you to Kevin Byrne of Wine Warehouse and John Burton of southern Wine & spirits of southern California, we can’t thank you enough for your and your company’s generous support of circle of hope and our Vine 2 Wine classic. Your contribution to our event truly sets us apart from any other wine event in our area, and we owe it to you.

We are extremely grateful for the generosity of the City of Santa Clarita for allowing us to use this wonderful facility. to Mike and Pam Ripling for finding this site, and a special thank you to Bob Kellar for all his help in securing the Santa Clarita activity center. to Pat Downing, Judy Baker, Cynthia Gonzalez, and their entire staff, for the professionalism they offered in working with circle of hope to make this event a reality.

We would also like to thank Janice Murray, this year’s Vine 2 Wine chairman. Also a big thank you to Pam Ripling, Circle of Hope events committee chairman. To our Vine 2 Wine Classic Committee, thank you for your time and dedication to making this event possible.

A special thank you to the library wine donors Chris & Jeannie Carpenter, Roger & Gwen Gertz, Les Hershberger and Mamie Wong, Jeff, Joan & Julie Jacobson, Yoon Lee, and Robert & Annie Schwartz. Thank you for opening your private cellars to tonight’s guests.

Thank you to the participating wineries, merchants, food vendors, artists, and musicians –Jimmy Carnelli and friends – this event would not have been possible without your participation and support.

A big thank you this evening’s volunteers and wine pourers. We appreciate your help enormously, and this event would not be what it is without your support. Thank you to Linda Woolf, for coordinating the volunteer effort.

We would like to say a special thank you to Angela Capodanno for her amazing graphic layouts – not only for this program, but for the past two years – bringing Circle of Hope’s brand alive and capturing the essence of who and what circle of hope is. All we can say is thank you for all your hard work.

Thank You to All of our Guests. Thank you for supporting the 11th annual Vine 2 Wine Classic and the Circle of Hope. Together, we can make a difference!

Thank You to our Artists. Circle of Hope would like to thank the artists from the Santa Clarita Art Association for providing an amazing collection of their works this evening. The addition of fine art enhances our event, and we appreciate their talents.

Thank You to our Food Vendors

Hidden Havana Cuban Café

Salt Creek Grille catering

Blooming Bakery

Cake Goodness

Kokolita Cakes

Nana’s Banana Bread

Pacific Coast Honey

PK Chocolates

Toffee Dejour

Kona Bar

Circle of Hope: Making a difference today for a brighter future tomorrow

Circle of Hope, Inc. is the only breast cancer organization in the Santa Clarita Valley that provides financial, emotional and educational support for breast cancer patients. The community has embraced us since our formation in 2004. Circle of Hope assists breast cancer patients who live in, work in, or receive treatment in the SCV.

We believe that providing financial and emotional support will improve the individual’s chance of success in their battle against breast cancer. We help clients access and understand the treatment process, and we provide financial assistance for medications, co-pays, second opinions, testing and cobra payments. Additionally, Circle of Hope educates youth and young adults on the importance of early detection. http://www.circleofhopeinc.org/