Eve's Wine 101

Virginia Wineries Association Announces Virginia Governor’s Cup® Gold Medalists

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RICHMOND, Va., /PRNewswire/ — The 2023 Virginia Governor’s Cup® Competition marks another record-breaking year for the Virginia Wine industry. With 614 entries from across the state, 66 wineries in the Commonwealth were awarded with 142 gold medals.

In its 41st year, the competition has garnered a reputation for being one of the most stringent in the nation while highlighting the most outstanding wines, ciders and meads being produced in Virginia. Medals are awarded after a series of rigorous blind tastings by a prestigious panel of judges, led by competition director Jay Youmans, Master of Wine. To receive a gold medal, a wine must receive an average score of 90 points or higher on a 100-point scale.

“The Virginia Wineries Association is thrilled to announce this incredible number of gold medal winning-wines,” said Virginia Wineries Association President George Hodson. “The gold medals span eight regions and are crafted with over 20 grape varieties all grown in Virginia, producing quality wines expressive of their farms and the Commonwealth of Virginia.”

Youmans added, “The overall quality of the wines was the highest we have seen. Leading the way are the red blends, many of which are produced in a Meritage style, Petit Verdot, Petit Manseng and Cabernet Franc.”

These categories spotlighted by Youmans account for over half the medals with 28 red blends, 24 Petit Verdots, 16 Cabernet Francs and 11 Petit Mansengs taking home gold medals. In addition to the top wine categories, nine ciders also earned a Gold Medal.

Along with the diversity in styles of wine, the gold medal winning producers are located across Virginia. The Central Virginia region was awarded 72 medals, Northern Virginia received 39 and the Shenandoah Valley received 20. The remaining medals can be found in the Blue Ridge, Chesapeake Bay, Hampton Roads, Southern Virginia and Virginia Mountain regions of the state. For a full list of gold medalists, visit: www.virginiawine.org/governors-cup/awards.

On February 23, the Virginia Wine Board hosted Virginia Governor’s Cup® Gala at Richmond’s Main Street Station and unveiled the competition’s top awards—the Governor’s Cup® Case, consisting of the 12 highest-scoring red and white wines, Best in Show Cider and the coveted Governor’s Cup®.

Beginning March 1, Virginia Wine fans eager to taste the winning wineries can sign up for the complimentary Gold Medal Wine Trail, a mobile passport that features the 66 gold medal winners. As users check-in at participating venues, they will unlock access to exclusive prizes and special offers. For more information or to pre-sign up for the Gold Medal Wine Trail, visit: vawine.info/gold.

About the Virginia Governor’s Cup® Competition

The Virginia Wineries Association’s Governor’s Cup® is held in partnership with the Virginia Wine Board. All entries must be made from 100% Virginia-grown fruit to be eligible. Each wine is ranked based on a unified scoring system. For more information about the Virginia Governor’s Cup® Competition and for a full list of winners, visit: www.virginiawine.org/governors-cup.

DRY CREEK VINEYARD CELEBRATES A FAMILY LEGACY 50 YEARS IN THE MAKING

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HEALDSBURG, Calif., /PRNewswire/ — Exactly 50 years ago, Dry Creek Vineyard founder and California wine pioneer David S. Stare received the necessary permits to build the first new winery in Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, following Prohibition. Founded in 1972, Dry Creek Vineyard paved the way for a renaissance of winemaking and viticulture in the Dry Creek Valley.

The history of this multigenerational family winery is full of notable firsts within the industry:

1972:  First winery built in the Dry Creek Valley following Prohibition.
1972:  First to plant Sauvignon Blanc in the Dry Creek Valley.
1972:  First to label a wine as “Fumé Blanc” in Sonoma County.
1982:  First to display a sailboat on a wine label, a bold and daring move beyond the popular chateau-style labels of the time.
1983:  First to pioneer Dry Creek Valley’s American Viticultural Area (AVA) status.
1985:  First to label a wine as “Old Vine” Zinfandel, setting off an industry trend.
1987:  First to label a wine as a “Meritage,” illustrating the family’s love of Bordeaux blending.
1997:  First to release a “Heritage Clone” Zinfandel from pre-Prohibition vine cuttings.
2017:  First to receive a U.S. patent for the design of printed sustainable sourcing information on a cork.
2022:  First to release 50th consecutive vintage of Dry Chenin Blanc in the United States.

Stare’s daughter, Kim Stare Wallace, is currently the President of Dry Creek Vineyard and continues to lead with a “no compromises” philosophy, producing appellation-focused, terroir-driven, varietal-defining wines.

“Competition is at an all-time high in our industry, so being true to our wines, our vineyards and the terroir of our region is more important than ever before,” said Stare Wallace. “We remain committed to producing world-class wines from our estate vineyards and small, local family farms.”

“Our family winery began in 1972, and we have been building on that legacy for five decades,” continued Stare Wallace. “Through all the trials and triumphs, my father, my husband and I have worked together to meet each and every challenge head on. Our family legacy is 50 years in the making, and we are just getting started!”

Established in 1972 by David S. Stare, Dry Creek Vineyard is Dry Creek Valley’s flagship winery located in the heart of Sonoma County, California. This premier, family-owned winery is celebrating 50 years of winemaking and is led by the second generation. Dave’s daughter, Kim Stare Wallace, serves as President overseeing a successful family winemaking and grape growing business that includes 185 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards. Named a Top 100 Winery by Wine & Spirits Magazine and a Top 10 Tasting Room by USA TODAY, the winery is also 100% Certified Sustainable. Dry Creek Vineyard proudly produces delicious Dry Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Meritage blends as well as a portfolio of single vineyard selections. To learn more, visit www.drycreekvineyard.com. Connect with Dry Creek Vineyard on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

SOUTH COAST WINERY NAMED “GOLDEN STATE WINERY OF THE YEAR” BY CALIFORNIA STATE FAIR

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TEMECULA, Calif. – South Coast Winery announces with great pride it has been designated as the esteemed Golden State Winery of the Year by the California State Fair in the California Commercial Wine Competition, which recently took place at Cal Expo in Sacramento. This is an unprecedented fifth win of this title by any California winery with South Coast also winning this designation in 2008, 2009, 2013 and 2016.

This year, a panel of 44 official judges led by Chief Judge Mark Chandler tasted and evaluated 1,953 California wines from 443 California wineries. The competition is open only to wines made with fruit grown and produced in the 11 growing regions across California. Wines are evaluated by class, varietal, style and region based upon the source of the grapes. The expert judging panel includes respected winemakers, wine merchants, writers, promoters and educators.

“The California State Fair Wine Competition, which dates back to 1854, along with its pronouncement of South Coast Winery as Golden State Winery of the Year 2022 is so important and meaningful to us,” said Jeff Carter, president of South Coast Winery. “We owe this amazing kudo and the award recognition of the 29 wines we entered in the competition to the incredible Temecula Valley terroir, to our dedicated team and highly valued winemakers – Jon McPherson and Javier Flores – and to over 20 years of successful viticulture production.”

The 2022 California State Fair Wine Competition results included awards bestowed on all the 29 wines entered by South Coast Winery. They include Double Gold Awards for the vineyard’s 2020 Pinot Blanc, Best of Region White with a score of 100 and NV Daybreak with a score of 99. Gold Awards were given to 2018 Meritage Best of Appellation, 2018 Viognier Best of Class Appellation, 2021 Dry Gewurztraminer Best of Appellation, NV Brut, 2020 Riesling and NV Vineyard Rose. South Coast Winery also accrued 13 Silver Awards and eight Bronze.

About the California State Fair

The California State Fair is an international award-winning fair, receiving top honors at the International Association of Fairs and Expositions out of more than 1,100 fairs world-wide. The California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate the best the state has to offer in agriculture, technology, and the diversity of its people, traditions, and trends that shape the Golden State’s future. The 2022 State Fair will include a comprehensive list of competitions, including California’s best commercial wines, cheeses, craft beers, cannabis, olive oils and fine arts, among others.

About South Coast Winery

The only state winery to claim the title of California Winery of the Year five times at the California State Fair Wine Competition, South Coast Winery sets the gold standard for excellence amongst California wineries, earning more than 3,000 awards since its inception in 2003. Situated on 63 lush acres, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa offers a breathtaking retreat for wine tours, romantic getaways and group events with 132 rooms and villas, a working winery and tasting room, gift shop, full-service spa and restaurant.

South Coast Winery is a family-owned and offers a broad portfolio of 45 wine labels, the majority of which are available for sampling in its main tasting room – from robust reds such as Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Petit Syrah, Merlot and Pinot Noir to whites including Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Riesling. Also available are sparkling wines, dessert wines and other specialty offerings. The winery employs a staff of skilled winemakers, including master winemaker Jon McPherson and winemaker Javier Flores, both with decades of experience in the wine industry.

For more information, visit www.southcoastwinery.com.

Tasting a Classic: Rodney Strong Vineyards

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Do you know anything about Rodney Strong Vineyards? If you do recognize the name, as most would for the 50+ year-old Sonoma County winery, forgetaboutit for just a few more minutes while you read what I learned about their iconic label, as well as newer labels we tasted from: Symmetry Collection Red Meritage, Alexander Valley; Alexander’s Crown Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley; and Rowen Red Wine Blend, Cooley Ranch, Sonoma County; presented by Director of Winemaking Justin Seidenfeld and Director of Communications Christopher O’Gorman during a spectacular paired wine luncheon at Cafe Del Rey.

(If your appetite can’t bear waiting…see photos of the wine and winemaker Justin Seidenfeld click here, if you are after the food prepared by Sous Chef Jackie Ramsey that’s all here. I suggest a gander at both.)

What We Learned

  • The winery opened in 1959 and was the 13th bonded winery in Sonoma County. Beginning with producing an annual 30,000 cases they now make 860,000 cases.
  • Tom Klein and family purchased Rodney Strong in 1989.
  • Rodney “Rod” Strong was a former dancer turned winemaker. He was a leader in pushing Sonoma County wines and is considered a “pioneer in the industry”.
  • Seidenfeld, now on his 15th vintage for Rodney Strong, uses the vineyards and science to make great wines, as he “loves to make people happy.” He looks forward to taking Rodney Strong into the future.
  • Rodney Strong is “solar powered, certified sustainable, practice Fish Friendly Farming and Sonoma County’s first carbon neutral winery.”

The Menu and Wine Pairing – aromas and flavors separated by ;

Welcome: 2018 Rose of Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Estate Sonoma County.

Floral, pink grapefruit, fruit cocktail, wet pebbles, some mild and pleasant salinity; fresh fruit, pink lemonade, mild acid and some of the same fruit as found on the nose. Rodney Strong lovers will note a new white label, very artistic, to catch the eye. This is the third best-selling Rose over $15 in the U.S.

 

Starter: 2018 Sauvignon Blanc, Charlotte’s Home, Estate Sonoma County.

Fresh pear, white peach, with notes that reminded me of both a sandy beach and fresh mown grass; fresh citrus, low acid, balanced and a nice long finish. The “10% barrel fermented in French oak with completed malolactic” gave a nice creaminess to the wine, not what I expect from the usual highly acidic Sauvignon Blancs, so it was very welcoming. Nicely priced at about $17 and a new white label to catch the eye as well.

Pairing: Oyster, tuna tartar, preserved lemon aioli and cucumber mignonette. The oyster was to die for, and the slight creaminess in the wine was the perfect balance.

 

First Course: 2016 Chalk Hill Estate Vineyards Chardonnay.

Unsalted butter, toast, kiwi, earth and oak; butter again, hay, Meyer lemon. The 12 months in French Oak left its lovely buttery mark on this classic Rodney Strong label.

Pairing: Scallops, coconut sunchoke, pureed grilled peach, pea coulis, fried leeks. I noted that the scallops, amazing on their own, were more buttery with the Chard.

 

Second Course: 2016 Russian River Valley Estate Vineyards Pinot Noir.

Crushed cherries, stems, bramble, rose petal and stewed red fruit; richly layered, both peppery and velvety with bright red fruit.

Pairing: Chicken, roulade prosciutto spinach, sundried tomato, charred shallot and red wine jus. The chef had used a Pinot Noir in the red wine sauce that of course complemented the wine very well.

 

Third Course (two wines): 2015 Symmetry Red Meritage, Alexander Valley and MY WINE OF THE WEEK FOR SURE.

Blue to black fruit, cracked black pepper, incense and earth; great balance of fruit and spice, earthy, dark and brooding with an incredible length. This blend, 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 8% Petit Verdot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec was great right now in my opinion. It came from five different Alexander Valley Vineyards and their estate on the hills north of Lake Sonoma: Cooley Ranch.

SECOND WINE: 2015 Alexander’s Crown, Cabernet Sauvignon, Single Vineyard, Sonoma County.

Blueberry, dark chocolate, dust and cigar; balanced mouthfeel, peppery, dark fruit, creamy, toasted oak. This was also an exceptional wine.

Pairing: Grilled lamb, Romesco, risotto, pickled ramp and pea mint gremolata. I chewed that bone until it was bare – so very good only made better by the Symmetry.

 

Final Course:

2015 Rowen, Red Wine, Sonoma County, Cooley Ranch.

Blackberry, blueberry, lots of plum, milk chocolate, rich wet soil; peppery, dry, big, juicy fruit and tannins to give it an incredibly long finish. This wine had been decanted, so now ready to drink. 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Malbec, 17% Syrah and 2% Viognier. All Cooley Ranch – in my opinion, you should keep your eye on wines from this area.

Pairing: What a delight of hard-to-get award-winning cheeses we were presented with along with toasted nuts and fresh fruit. We thought we were done. Then came a chilled chocolate truffle served alongside a little jar of white creamy pudding with a rim of red fruit. Then we thought we were done again, only to be handed a small box containing a tart…for the road.

 

All of the wines I would definitely buy, the last three I will look for on wine lists and snatch up if I’m lucky enough to find. (Or you could join the wine club to get yours.) The restaurant I will definitely return to, the food is incredible and matched only by the service and incredible views of boats in the Marina.

https://www.rodneystrong.com/

https://www.rowenwinecompany.com/

https://cafedelreymarina.com/

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

Vintage Eve Circa 4/2016: Revisiting Four Brix Winery

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We’ve run news from Ventura’s Four Brix Winery over the years (Baubles party, announcing the opening of the winery and different events I was able to snag a brief tasting at.) But it‘s been since May 2010 that I’ve sat down to taste and review their wines. Via my pal Cori Solomon of #LAWineWriters a media visit was recently arranged, and I got to rectify that.

Gary Stewart

From that 2010 article I will share that “…wine tasting became a focused passion for the three couples (that own Four Brix Winery)…(Gary) Stewart is mostly self-taught, adding classes from UC Davis, and was mentored by winemaker Ryan Horn at the Vintner’s Vault in Paso; the other couples offered years of palate experience. I then offered up my own palate to try the swanky labels he had for Deductive (Zinfandel and Petite Syrah), Rhondevous (Syrah, Mourvedre, Grenache) and my personal favorite, Scosso (Sangiovese, Cabernet, Merlot).

Fast-forward to today, and from co-owner Karen Stewart (who is most often found in the tasting room), I learned:

  • They started out as garage winemakers.
  • The winery has 4,000 more square feet just added, perfect for their larger “Brix Head” events.
  • They recently added their first “estate-managed vineyard”, the Cani Amante Vineyard, in Ojai.
  • They don’t have a Chardonnay, but plenty of other whites to tantalize you.

New Tasting (Aromas and flavors separated by “;”)

2013 Smitten

100% Viognier

Camp 4 Vineyard, Santa Ynez

HELLO PINEAPPLE, then came pear, wet steel and pebbles; in the mouth was that same big pineapple flavor (someone maybe liked Hawaiian Pineapple wine when they made this one?), lemon-lime, concrete and white peach. 90 Eve pts.

 

2013 Desirous

100% Grenache Blanc

Camp 4 Vineyard, Santa Ynez

Jasmine, cantaloupe and honeydew melon, talcum powder, perfumy and fresh; on the mouth I got distinct canned fruit cocktail, medium acid and slight oak elements. 89 Eve pts.

 

2014 Dry Riesling

Cani Amante Vineyard in Ojai, Estate property.

I don’t get CA Riesling often so I was looking forward to this one. Dried peach, anise, white pepper; followed by peaches in light syrup, lemon, limeade with an encouragingly pleasant mouthfeel. 89 Eve pts.

 

2012 Meritage

64% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon

Paso Robles

Cigarette, red cherry, toast, jam and vanilla; dried cherry, black currant, cigar, oak, dark, strong tannins. 89 Eve pts.

 

2011 Temptress

85% Tempranillo, 12% Grenache, 3% Mourvedre

Dusty plum, mushroom, green peppercorn and black cherry; spices, black fruit, peppery with a long, dark finish. 89 Eve pts.

 

2011 Petite Sirah

Layers of blueberry and black cherry, musty, violets; then flavors of dark black fruit, black pepper, dry and dusty. 88 Eve pts.

 

2013 Scosso

Jammy nose with blue to black fruit, earth and mint; juicy at the start, dry at mid-palate, same fruit profile as found in the nose. 89 Eve pts.

 

2013 Cani Amante Block 4, Ojai

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot

Lovely berry fruit, milk chocolate and oak trees; very dry, pepper, black fruit, big, and chewy. WE gave it 90 pts., so who am I to disagree? 90 Eve pts.

 

Location

2290 EASTMAN AVE. SUITE 109
VENTURA, CA 93003
Call for hours Thursday through Sunday: Phone: (805) 256-6006
info@fourbrixwine.com

Website: http://www.fourbrixwine.com/

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

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 judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. 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

​STARS of Napa Valley Wine Returns to LA March 13th

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Beverly Hills, California ​– Join wineLA at the Peninsula Beverly Hills for ​STARS of Napa Valley Wine on March 13th, 2019​. Come taste alongside approximately 30 of the Napa Valley’s finest wineries! Did you know that Napa Valley produces 4% of our wine in California, but 30% of our total wine dollars?! Napa Vintners hold a very special place on the world stage and they are coming to Los Angeles in full force!! All grape varietals will be showcased! Napa gives us not only some of the best wine, but also some of the greatest diversity in varietal and style! The Peninsula Beverly Hills will expect to welcome hundreds of wine enthusiasts to meet the winemakers and celebrate Napa Valley’s most coveted wines.

Among the elite list of wineries showcasing their most popular pours are: 1849 Wine, Alpha Omega, Barnett Vineyards, Bouchaine Vineyards, Hertelendy Vineyards, Venge Vineyards, Frank Family Vineyards, Hesperian Wines, Kale Wines, Michael Mondavi Family Estate, Miner Family Winery, O’Connell Family, Teachworth Napa Valley, TOR, Trinitas Cellars, VGS Chateau Potelle, Yount Ridge Cellars, Emerson Brown Wines, Staglin Family Vineyard, Burgess Cellars, Newton Vineyard, Hestan Vineyard, Cliff Family Winery + many more!

In addition to the wineries confirmed to attend wineLA’s annual STARS of Napa Valley Wine event, tickets will include an elegant assortment of tray-passed hors d’oeuvres, and a number of lofty auction items to bid on with 100% of the auction revenue donated to The T.J. Martell Foundation, funding children’s cancer research at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

Master of Wine Dinner with TOR Wines hosted by Matt Deller M.W. 5:30PM VIP+ tickets can be purchased for $250. ​VIP admission begins at 6PM: ​Advanced tickets for the VIP experience may be purchased for $175 per person and will be ​$225 a​ t the door. The VIP experience features an Older Vintage Tasting, dinner buffet & gift bag. G​ eneral admission begins at 7PM: A​ dvanced tickets are $​ 95 and will sold for ​$125 at​ the door. General Admission includes the unlimited wine tasting alongside tray-passed appetizers, silent auction, and cheese and dessert after party.

Tickets –> https://www.winela.com/stars-of-napa-valley

About wineLA

wineLA is about enhancing the wine culture of Los Angeles one event at a time. To do so, wine must be in rhythm with food, fashion, and music, while also reflecting the geography, architecture and atmosphere of centers of interest. Los Angeles is a giant playground with an amazing array of venues, spaces, wine bars, restaurants, beaches, rooftops, gardens, and magical views. We are a part of the LA lifestyle, the wine lifestyle, and we celebrate the people, the places and the passion!

About Napa Valley Vintners

wineLA has partnered with the Napa Valley Vintners to present THE BEST IN THE BUSINESS! All grape varietals will be showcased; From Bubbles to Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay and red wines that run the gamut such as: Merlot, Cabernet, Petite Verdot, Zinfandel, Meritage Blends and Rhone varietals such as Syrah and Grenache – Napa offers not only some of the best of California, but also some of the greatest diversity.

​About The T.J. Martell Foundation
A silent auction containing many collectable and large format wines 100% benefits The TJ Martell Foundation, the music industry’s largest foundation funding innovative medical research focused on finding cures for children’s leukemia, cancer and AIDS. The Foundation sources and supports early-stage research projects aimed at developing more effective clinical treatments for patients who otherwise might not be supported. Learn more at tjmartell.org​.

About Peninsula Hotel

The only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star-rated hotel in Southern California every year since 1993, The Peninsula Beverly Hills offers 194 guest rooms, including 38 suites and 16 private villas, nestled among lush tropical gardens in the heart of Beverly Hills. The Peninsula is located at the intersection of Wilshire and South Santa Monica Boulevards and within comfortable walking distance from the legendary Rodeo Drive.

STARS of Napa Valley 2018

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Beverly Hills, Calif.​ ​–The Peninsula Beverly Hills and WineLA join together to host STARS of Napa Valley ​(​www.STARSofNapaValley.com​)​ on Wednesday, March 14th, 2018​.

wineLA_STARS_of_NAPA_2018_HEADERFACT: Did you know that Napa Valley produces 4% of our wine in California? And 30% of our total wine dollars! Napa is a very special place on the world stage of wine and they are coming to Los Angeles in full force!!

Taste along side over 30 of the Napa Valley’s finest wineries! All grape varietals will be showcased; from Cabernet Sauvignon to Napa Valley Bubbles, from to Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay and red wines that run the gamut such as: Merlot, Cabernet, Petite Verdot, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Meritage Blends and Rhone varietals such as Syrah and Grenache – Napa not only has some of the best wine to offer, but also some of the greatest diversity. The Peninsula Beverly Hills will expect to welcome hundreds of wine enthusiasts to meet the makers and celebrate Napa Valley’s most coveted wines.

WineLA is excited to present one of the greatest collection of brands ever assembled for this annual gathering! Among the list of wineries showcasing: Matthiasson, Ladera Vineyards, 1849 Wine Co., Robert Mondavi Winery, Tuck Beckstoffer Wines, Alpha Omega, Barnett Vineyards, Chateau Boswell Winery, Vineyard 29, Somnium Wine, Howell at the Moon Winery and Vineyards, Alder Deutsch Vineyard, Relic Wine Cellars, Baldacci Family Vineyards, S.R. Tonella Cellars, Yount Ridge Cellars, Amizetta Estate, Joseph Phelps, Boeschen Vineyards, Trinitas Cellars, Joseph Carr, Saint Helena Winery, Revana Wine Portfolio, Clif Family Winery, Hesperian Wines, Kenzo Estate, Hertelendy Vineyards, Angwin Estate Vineyards, VGS Chateau Potelle, Dos Lagos Vineyards, and AXR Napa valley, to name a few.

In addition to the wineries confirmed to attend wineLA’s annual Tasting Napa Valley event, tickets will include an elegant assortment of tray-passed hors d’oeuvres, and a number of lofty auction items to bid on with 100% of the auction revenue being donated to the T.J. Martell Foundation.

VIP admission begins at 6 p.m.​ (Advanced tickets for the VIP experience may be purchased for $149 per person and will be $200 at the door) The VIP experience includes the ​Older Vintage Tasting, Dinner Buffet & VIP Gift Bag​. ​General admission begins at 7PM​ (Advanced tickets are $80 and will sold for $95 at the door) This event is limited to 150 guests and, similar to wineLA’s past wine events, is expected to sell out so tickets at the door may not be available.

For more information about Tasting Napa Valley or to purchase tickets, call wineLA at 310-451-7600 or visit

http://www.winela.com/starsofnapavalley

About wineLA

WineLA is about enhancing the wine culture of Los Angeles one event at a time. To do so, wine must be in rhythm with fashion, music, food and other beverages. It must take advantage of the geography, the architecture and the centers of interest. Los Angeles is a giant playground with an amazing array of venues, spaces, wine bars, restaurants, beaches, roof tops, gardens, and magical views. WineLA is a part LA lifestyle, the wine lifestyle, and celebrate the people, the place and the passion.

wineLA hosts significant events, classes, and quality tasting events for regions of the world. This is phase two of what was started 20 years ago at LearnAboutWine.com – America’s first wine education website and first in wine event creation.

Mystic Hills Vineyard’s Awards Piling Up

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New Winery Now Named the Monterey Winery of the Year

Paso Robles, CA – A new small family owned winery, Mystic Hills Vineyard, has been honored with awards in every competition it has entered. Now it has been awarded the top spot: Monterey Winery of the Year under the USA Individual Awards handed down by the New York International Wine Competition.

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Vintner Joel Cox is not a stranger to being honored with awards, he is an Oscar winning film editor. Some of Mystic Hills Vineyard wines are named to honor his decades-long career as Clint Eastwood’s editor.

“We continue to be blessed by the judges and our supporters,” said vintner and co-owner Judy Cox. “Our wine club membership is growing at the same pace along with these wonderful accolades.”

Awards to date: The New York International Wine Competition: Red Meritage/Bordeaux Style Blend, California. Sequel 2011 Bronze. 
Cabernet Sauvignon, California, Central Coast. Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 – Bronze.

The 2015 Critics Challenge International Wine Competition: 2011 Unforgiven Gold Medal and 2011 Sequel Silver Medal.

The Los Angeles International Wine Competition 2015: Silver Medal, Bordeaux Blend, 2011 Unforgiven, Monterey County. Silver Medal, Bordeaux Blend, 2011 Sequel, Monterey County. Silver Medal, 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon, Monterey County. Bronze Medal, 2013 Rosé, H.E.A.R.T.S., Monterey County.

2015 Rosé Competition, Simi Winery, Napa Valley: 2013 H.E.A.R.T.S. Rosé Silver Medal.

San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition 2015: 2011 Unforgiven – Gold Medal, 
2011 Sequel Silver Medal and
2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Silver Medal.

Mystic Hills Vineyard is located in San Miguel, CA, and 10 miles north of Paso Robles. For a private tasting with the wine makers, please call (805) 610-1099 or email info@mystichillsvineyard.com. For all correspondence, please send to: P.O. Box 5148, Paso Robles, CA 93447, info@mystichillsvineyard.com Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mystic-Hills-Vineyard/174322976034673

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Don’t miss this week’s STARS of California 2015

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STARS of California will be here next Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 at The Peninsula Hotel located at 9882 South Santa Monica Blvd. in Beverly Hills, CA.

Top “Artisan” California Wineries Set to Participate in SoCal’s Exclusive Wine Event

Beverly Hills, Calif. – The Peninsula Hotel and wineLA join together again to host the annual STARS of California Wine Festival on Wednesday, May 20. With 35 notable wineries set to participate in the festivities, The Peninsula Hotel will expect to welcome hundreds of wine enthusiasts in celebration of California’s most coveted wines.

Tickets —> https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stars-of-california-2015-tickets-13859625513

Your LINEUP:
Untitled6:15 PM – 7:00 PM: VIP Winemaker Presentation with Kosta Browne Winery, 6:15 PM Entrance ($150 advanced, $200 at the door)

Includes… ROBUST DINNER BUFFET (ONLY UNTIL 7 PM), VIP GIFT BAG, Full Event Access and Unlimited Tasting, PLUS Exclusive 6:30 PM VIP Presentation with Kosta Browne with the following wines:
– One Sixteen Chardonnay, Russian RIver Valley 2013
– VIP Tasting Only: Cirq Treehouse Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley 2012
– Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley 2013
– Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2013

7:00 PM – 9:30 PM: General Admission ($95 advanced, $125 after May 1, $150 at the door)

In addition to the wineries confirmed to attend wineLA’s annual Stars of California Wine Festival, tickets will include an elegant assortment of tray-passed hors d’oeuvres and a number of lofty auction items to bid on. Auction items will range from $100 to $2,000. One hundred percent of silent auction proceeds will benefit TJ Martell Foundation.

2015 Participants:

Keller Estates – Sonoma (Keller Winery Estate)
– Oro de Plata Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast, Petaluma Gap 2013
– La Cruz Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast, Petaluma Gap 2013
– La Cruz Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, Petaluma Gap 2012
– El Coro Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, Petaluma Gap 2012

Robert Biale – Napa/Sonoma (Robert Biale Vineyards)
– Black Chicken Zinfandel, Napa Valley 2013
– R.W. Moore Zinfandel, Napa Valley 2013
– Basic Black, Old World blend, Sonoma 2012
– Royal Pinshers Petite Syrah, Napa Valley 2013

Beekeeper Cellars – Sonoma (Beekeeper Cellars)
– Zinfandel, Black Sears Vineyard, Howell Mountain 2012
– Zinfandel, Madrone Springs Vineyard, Rockpile 2011

Sonoma-Loeb – Sonoma (Sonoma Loeb)
– Chardonnay, Sangiacomo 2013
– Chardonnay, Envoy 2013
– Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2013
– Pinot Noir, Dutton Ranch 2013

Argot Cellars – Sonoma (Argot Wines)
– Chardonnay, Simpatico Ranch, Bennett Valley, Sonoma 2012
– Pinot Noir, Hawk Hill Vineyard, Sonoma Coast 2012

Clos Solene – Paso Robles (Clos Solene)
– Hommage Blanc, Roussanne Viognier, Paso Robles 2014
– Harmonie, 62% Grenache, 28% Syrah, 6% Mourvedre, Paso Robles 2013
– Hommage a Nos Pairs 94% Syrah, 4% Grenache, 2% Roussanne, Paso Robles 2013

L’ Aventure Winery – Paso Robles (L’Aventure Winery)
– Estate Cuvee (57% Syrah, 31% Cab Sauv, 12% Petit Verdot), Paso Robles 2012
– Cabernet Sauvignon (91% Cab Suav, 9% Petit Verdot), Paso Robles 2012

RN Estate – Paso Robles
– Pinot Noir (Whole Cluster Fermentation), Fiddlestix Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills 2012
– Pinot Noir, Solomon Hills, Santa Maria Valley 2012
– Cuvee des Trois Depages, RN Estate Vineyard 2011
– Chardonnay, Solomon Hills Vineyard 2013

LAW Estate – Paso Robles (Law Estate Winery)
– Intrepid, Syrah, Law Vineyard, Paso Robles 2011
– Sagacious (38% Syrah, 34% Mourvedre, 28% Grenache), Law Vineyard, Paso Robles 201

Westerly Wine – Santa Barbara (Westerly Wines)
– Cote Blonde, Syrah Blend, Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara 2012
– Fletcher’s Red, Red Blend, Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara 2010
– Fletcher’s White, White Blend, Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara 2013
– Sauvignon Blend, Santa Ynez Valley 2013

Alma Rosa – Santa Barbara (Alma Rosa Winery and Vineyards)
– Vin Gris, 2014
– Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills 2013
– Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County 2013
– Pinot Gris, Santa Barbara County 2013

Gainey – Santa Barbara (Gainey Vineyard)
– Limited selection Sauvignon Blanc, Santa Ynez Valley 2013
– Limited selection Chardonnay, Sta. Rita Hills 2012
– Limited selection Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2012
– Limited selection Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Ynez Valley 2012

Gentleman Farmer – Napa/Valley (Gentleman Farmer)
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012

St. Supery – Napa Valley (St. Supéry Estate Vineyards and Winery – Napa Valley)
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley Estate 2012
– ELU, (Red Meritage) Napa Valley Estate 2012
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Dollarhide Estate Vineyard 2012
– Merlot, Rutherford Estate Vineyard 2012

Ahnfeldt – Napa Valley
– Estate Chardonnay 2013
– Special Reserve Merlot 2010
– Special reserve Cabernet 2012
– Quid Pro Quo Red Blend 2012

Oakville Ranch – Napa Valley (Oakville Ranch Vineyards)
– Chardonnay, ORV 2013
– Field Blend, ORV 2012
– Robert’s Cabernet Franc 2011
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville Ranch 2012

Amici Cellars – Napa Valley (Amici Cellars)
– Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley 2013
– Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley 2013
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012
– Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, Napa Valley 2012

Refugio Ranch Vineyards – Santa Barbara (Refugio Ranch)
– RR Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon Blend, Santa Ynez Valley 2013
– Roussanne/Viognier Blend, Santa Ynez Valley 2011
– Syrah, Grenache, Petite Syrah, Santa Ynez Valley 2012
– Petite Syrah, Santa Ynez Valley 2012

Saxon Brown – Sonoma County (Saxon Brown Wines)
– Fighting Brothers, Semillon, Sonoma Valley 2012
– Sangiacomo “Green Acres Hill”, Chardonnay, Sonoma Carneros 2012
– Sangiacomo “Robert’s Road”, Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2012
– Stonewall, Zinfandel, Sonoma Valley 2011
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2007

Foxen – Santa Barbara (Foxen Winery)
– Chenin Blanc, Ernesto Wickenden Vineyard 2013
– Chardonnay, Bien Nacido Block UU 2013
– Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley 2013
– Pinot Noir, John Sebastiano Vineyard 2012

Epoch Estate – Paso Robles (Epoch Estate Wines)
– White, Grenache Blanc (blend), Catapult and Paderewski Vineyards 2013
– Ingenuity, Syrah (blend), Paderewski Vineyard 2011
– Veracity, Grenache (blend), Paderewski Vineyard 2012

Lucas & Lewellen – Santa Barbara (Lucas & Lewellen Vineyards)
– High 9, Pinot Noir, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara 2013
– Cote Del Sol, Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara 2011
– Syrah, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara 2012
– Cabernet Franc, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara 2011

Chesebro – Arroyo Seco (Chesebro Wines)
– Pinot Noir, Cedar Lane Vineyard, Arroyo Seco 2010
– La Montagne Sauvage, CM Ranch Vineyard, Carmel Valley 2009

Cole Bailey – Redwood Valley
– “Sesquipedalian” Cabernet Sauvignon, Cole Bailey Vineyards, Redwood Valley 2007

Cordon – Santa Barbara
– “L’Inox” Sauvignon Blanc, Happy Canyon 2014
– “Les Jumeaux” Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2012
– Syrah, White Hawk Vineyard, Los Alamos 2011

Graef – Lake County
– Rose of Syrah, Lake County 2013
– Viognier, Solano County Suisun Valley 2012
– Syrah, Lake County 2012

Random Ridge – Napa/Sonoma (Random Ridge)
– “Old Wave” Zinfandel, Moon Mountain, Sonoma Valley 2012
– Cabernet Franc, Random Ridge Vineyards, Mt. Veeder 2009
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Random Ridge Vineyards, Mt. Veeder 2012

Hawk & Horse Vineyards – Lake County Red Hills (Hawk and Horse Vineyards)
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills 2009
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills 2010
– Latigo- Port style dessert wine, Red Hills 2010
– Petite Syrah, Red Hills 2011

– Forgotten Barrel/Sika Wine – San Diego (Forgotten Barrel Tasting Room)
– SiKa Chardonnay, Atlas Peak 2013
– SiKa Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2012
– SiKa Cabernet Franc, Atlas Peak 2013
– SiKa Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley 2013

Metaphora Wines – Napa Valley (Metaphora Wines)
– Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2010
– Pinot Noir, Napa Valley 2010
– Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley 2014

Cellars 33 – Sonoma County (Cellars 33)
– Grenache Blanc, Clay Satation Vineyard – Lodi 2014
– Chardonnay, Keefer Ranch, Russion River Valley 2013
– ‘Katie’s Cuvee’ Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley 2013

Jeff Cohn – Paso Robles/Sonoma (Jeff Cohn Cellars)
– The Impostor Zinfindel Blend, California 2012
– Rockpile Syrah, Rockpile 2012
– Botticelli Zinfandel, Rockpile 2012
– Misc Stuff GSM Blend, California 2012

Bougetz Cellars – Napa Valley (Bougetz Cellars)
– Sauvignon Blanc, Rutherford 2013
– Amaryllis Cabernet Sauvignon, Spring Mountain District 2012
– Eminence, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2012
– The Cairn, Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2012

La Rochelle – Pinot Noir Specialist (La Rochelle Wine)
– Chardonnay, Ferrington Vineyard 2012
– Pinot Meunier Saralee’s Vineyard 2012
– Pinot Noir, Tondre Grapefield 2011
– Pinot Noir, Dutton Freestone Hill Vineyard 2011

Truchard – Napa Valley (Truchard Vineyards)
– Chardonnay, Napa Valley Carneros Estate 2013
– Pinot Noir, Napa Valley Carneros Estate 2013
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley Carneros Estate 2012
– Roussanne, Napa Valley Carneros Estate 2013
– Syrah, Napa Valley Carneros Estate 2013

Aloft – Napa Valley
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain 2010

Valdez – Sonoma (Valdez Family Winery)
– Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast 2012
– Valdez Vineyards, Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley 2011
– St. Peter’s Church, Zinfandel, Alexander Valley 2011
– Silver Eagle Syrah, Russian River Valley 2009

Cairdean Estate – St. Helena (Cairdean Vineyards)
– Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2010
– Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley 2012
– Haley Margaret White Wine (Blend of Roussanne, Viognier, and Pinot Gris) 2012
– Pinot Noir, Carneros 2011

Miura Vineyards (MIURA Vineyards)
– Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands 2013
– Pinot Noir, Williams Ranch, Anderson Valley 2011
– Pinot Noir, Pisoni Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 2011
– Antiqv2s, Syrah, Garys’ Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 2008

…with MANY more to come!

Special guest DJ of KCRW: Dan Wilcox

About wineLA:
wineLA is about enhancing the wine culture of Los Angeles. To do so, wine must be in rhythm with fashion, music, food and other beverages. It must take advantage of the geography, the architecture and the centers of interest. Los Angeles is a giant playground with an amazing array of venues, spaces, wine bars, restaurants, beaches, roof tops, gardens, and magical views. We want to be a part of the LA lifestyle, the wine lifestyle, and celebrate the people, the place and the passion.

wineLA hosts significant events, occasional classes, and tastings of merit. This is phase two of what we started 20 years ago at LearnAboutWine.com – America’s first wine education website and first in wine event creation.

2015 Partners:
– Los Angeles Magazine
– Learnaboutwine
– wineLA
– The TJ Martell Foundation
– The Peninsula Beverly Hills
– RIEDEL The Wine Glass Company
– Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce

2015 Sponsors:
– IPPA-MAX.com/Cellgevity
– Alcoholgsh.com
– Ideal 55 Wine Lockers

Tickets —> https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stars-of-california-2015-tickets-13859625513