Eve's Wine 101

Perlises Pick: Comstock Wines

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We recently had a bottle of the 2016 Comstock Rockpile Petite Sirah along with a few other wines. Petite Sirah is well known for often being dark, brooding, and taking a long time to come around to peak drinkability. This was just the opposite. It was bright, lively and downright elegant. It was the wine of that evening by far.

Elegance is a good way to describe Comstock winery itself – not hoity-toity snooty elegance, but comfortable modern elegance. The facility itself, completed in 2015, is a testament to modern wine country architecture. We first visited the property in 2014 when construction had barely started.

The last time we visited Comstock, our final email exchange with GM Kelly Comstock Ferris was that we needed to visit more often. Well, it took a little over two years, but we made it back. Hosted during our visit by Comstock’s Wine Club Manager Madeline Fuss, we were impressed by her wine knowledge as well as her skills in describing the wines in entertaining fashion. We learned later that Madeline has her WSET II credential and is working on her WSET III.

Madeline poured us a couple of glasses of the Comstock 2018 Blanc de Blanc Sparkling wine and invited us to stroll around a little and to let her know when we were ready for our seated, outdoor tasting. As we checked out the vineyard and the rest of the beautiful property, we enjoyed this 100% Chardonnay from the Dry Creek Valley AVA, picking up citrus notes and pleasant light and airy bubbles.

Here are our notes for the rest of the wines we tasted:

2020 Sauvignon Blanc – 100% Sauvignon Blanc from the Dry Creek Valley AVA, this was aged in a combination of neutral oak, concrete egg and stainless steel. Lemon and cantaloupe notes with a whisper of oak on the finish.

2017 Chardonnay – 100% Chardonnay from the Sangiacomo Vineyard in the Sonoma Coast AVA’s Petulama Gap.  This wine underwent 40% malolactic fermentation and saw a touch of new French oak.  It was buttery and creamy, like French brioche and had a medium to long finish.  Gold Medal at 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Competition.

2018 Grenache – made from grapes sourced from the Bennett Valley AVA.  Ripe berry fruit and spice notes with a solid finish. 

2018 Zinfandel – Old Vine – from 122 year old Estate vines in the Dry Creek Valley AVA. Dried fruit component with raisin and fig notes, and hints of mocha and cocoa. 

2019 Zinfandel – Old Vine – from 117 year old vines in the Russian River Valley AVA.  The vineyard is owned by Comstock’s winemaker Chris Russi and is listed with the Historical Vineyard Society.  Luscious cherry, cranberry and plum notes, along with a touch of white pepper and clove. Well-rounded with a long, lingering finish.

2017 Merlot – Dry Creek Valley AVA. Deep garnet color with vanilla undertones and a medium finish. Double Gold Medal at 2019 San Francisco Chronicle Competition. 

2014 Cabernet Sauvignon – from the warm valley floor of the Alexander Valley AVA this wine saw 45% New French Oak. A tinge of espresso and elegant, smooth tannins. 

2018 Syrah – 94% Syrah, 6% Viognier, Bennett Valley AVA. Dark berry and ripe, stone fruit notes combine with a long, lush finish.

We did have a chance to catch up a little with Comstock’s GM, Kelly Comstock Ferris. She said things have been very busy at the winery. They have a lot of food-pairing tasting options thanks to the expertise of Estate Chef Jude Affronti. Events include, among others, an old-fashioned Easter egg hunt as well as full multi-course dining affairs. Their Sip & Mandala Dot Painting classes on recycled Comstock wine bottles are hugely popular with locals and visitors alike; look closely at pictures of a recent one on Comstock’s Facebook page and you’ll see the Queen of Zinfandel herself, Carol Shelton!

Kelly also told us that they have teamed up with Inspirato, a luxury travel club, which opens up Comstock’s rental house and winery to a whole other group of travelers looking for wonderful experiences.

If you are looking for a wonderful wine experience, please be sure to check out Comstock Wines the next time you are in the Dry Creek area. Their wines and hospitality are always exceptional.

Comstock Wines

www.comstockwines.com

1290 Dry Creek Rd, Healdsburg, CA 95448

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

Perlises Pick – I. Brand and Family

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The San Francisco Chronicle named Morgan Twain-Peterson and Tegan Passalacqua their co-winemakers of the year for 2015. Why does this matter, you may ask? Typically, we don’t pay too much attention to these kind of awards. But since Morgan and Tegan are two of our very favorite winemakers (Morgan for Bedrock Wine Company and Tegan for Turley Wine Cellars as well as Sandlands), this award made us sit up and take notice of who the Chronicle named going forward.

Fast forward to 2018. The Chronicle named their winemaker of the year to be – Ian Brand. “Who?”, you may ask (we did). But further research resulted in us resolving to visit Ian’s winery tasting room in the Carmel Valley as soon as practical. It took us a while, but we finally made it.

Ian sources grapes from all over Monterey and San Benito Counties. You may not be familiar with many of the grapes and the vineyard sites are often historic and underrepresented in a land where Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are king and queen.

Ian actually produces wine under three labels: Le P’tit Paysan (The Little Peasant) would be considered entry level, inspired by French Village wines; La Marea (The Tide) focuses on Spanish varietals; and I. Brand, which are single vineyard, old vine bottlings. Total annual production is about 15,000 cases, with the premium I Brand label representing the lowest production.

We tasted some of the wines from the I. Brand label when we visited the tasting room in Carmel Valley Village. Note that most of these vineyards are registered with the Historic Vineyard Society (HVS), an organization near and dear to our hearts.

2021 Arneis –from the Vista Verde Vineyard in the Paicines AVA of San Benito County

Bright, Asian pear, lemon notes. Medium to full mouth feel, long fish.  Impression of very slight sweetness, distinct and structured.

2021 Pinot Gris – from the Eden Rift Vineyard in the Cienega Valley AVA of San Benito County.

Eden Rift was planted in the early 1850s by Theophile Vaché, a pioneer of the California wine industry. Light blush color, since it spent five days on its skins. Complex tannins, strawberry raspberry notes in the mouth and on the nose. Long finish.

2021 Pinot Noir – from the Enz Vineyard in the Lime Kiln Valley AVA of San Benito County. This vineyard is registered with the Historic Vineyard Society. Temperatures are warmer in this area compared to Monterey County so harvest is earlier. The soil is limestone versus the granite of Monterey County. Great fruit nose.  Stone fruit complexity, medium mouth feel, medium to long finish.

2019 Syrah, Mourvedre, Grenache – from the Chalone Vineyard in the Chalone AVA of Monterey County. This is another vineyard registered with the HVS. A perfect blend of these three grapes (56%, 32% and 12% respectively), this elegant wine had a cherry nose, red, ripe fruit and rosemary notes.  A nice long finish.

2019 Cabernet Sauvignon – from the Massa Vineyard in the Carmel Valley AVA of Monterey County

This is oldest vineyard in Carmel Valley. It was previously owned by the Durneys and is now owned by the Massas and is HVS registered. The wine was obviously still very young but was very structured and layered, with pomegranate and white pepper notes.

Ian is making outstanding wines from these great old vineyards. You should definitely take the drive to the end of Carmel Valley Village to see and taste for yourself.  It makes for a very leisurely ride.    

With the three labels, there is a variety to choose from.   The tasting room is comfy and cozy.  We enjoyed sitting outside looking at the scenery, the beautiful mountains and the surrounding areas. It only added to the overall experience.

I. Brand & Family

www.ibrandwinery.com

19 East Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley Village, CA 93924Michael and Karen Perlis have been pursuing their passion for wine for more than 30 years. They have had the good fortune of having numerous mentors to show them the way and after a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting wineries and vineyards, and tasting as much wine as they possibly could, they had the amazing luck to meet Eve Bushman. Michael and Karen do their best to bring as much information as possible about wine to Eve’s Wine 101 faithful readers.

Perlises Pick: What Wines We Are Drinking At Home – Part 4

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It is finally time to move our focus to Northern California, so now we can write about the Big Three.

Ahhh, the Big Three. These are the three winemakers that have had the biggest influence on our wine drinking over the last 2+ decades. Not only do they make great Zinfandel [kind of a requirement for this Zinfan] along with other wonderful reds that are in our wheelhouse [think Syrah, Petite Sirah, etc.] but they also make wonderful lighter style wines.

In addition, they are all founding members of the Historic Vineyard Society [insert website], an organization dedicated to preserving California’s old vineyards.

Photo provided by Mike Officer of Carlisle

The Big Three are:

Mike Officer of Carlisle Winery and Vineyards

Tegan Passalacqua of Turley Wine Cellars and Sandlands

Morgan Twain-Peterson of Bedrock

Mike and Kendall Officer’s first vintage from their Carlisle Winery www.carlislewinery.com was 1998. They both kept their day jobs for the next few years, but given the immediate accolades they received out of the starting gate for their wines produced from old-vine vineyards, focusing on Zinfandels and Rhones, demand for them to increase production was high. They eventually were able to devote themselves full-time to the winery and their family – both of their children now work at the winery. While we immediately became huge fans of their red wines, they also make three whites that are definitely on our go-to list:

Sonoma Mountain “Steiner Vineyard” Grüner Veltliner: Not too many wineries use this varietal in California.

Sonoma Valley “Compagni Portis” White Wine: a field blend of primarily Gewurztraminer, Trousseau Gris and Riesling from the Compagni Portis Vineyard. Sonoma County “The Derivative” White Wine: The 2018 is a blend of Semillon, Muscadelle, Columbard and Palomino.

While many people consider Turley Wine Cellars www.turleywinecellars.com to be a Paso Robles winery since they purchased the old Pesenti winery in 2000, they also have a facility in Amador County, having acquired the Karly property in 2012. More to the Northern California point, Turley’s headquarters is in St. Helena in the Napa Valley. Under the auspices of Director of Winemaking Tegan Passalacqua, Turley produces an amazing number of delicious Zinfandels from some of California’s best vineyards, along with some Petite Syrahs, Cinsaults and even some Cabernet Sauvignon. If you are looking for lighter wines, they make some great ones as well. For whites, the Sauvignon Blanc is a favorite of ours and The White Coat blend is always outstanding. And yes, Turley also makes a White Zinfandel; but please don’t expect it to be that silly sweet stuff.

Tegan and his wife Olivia also own Sandlands www.sandlandsvineyards.com , where they focus mainly on “forgotten classic California varieties, primarily grown in decomposed granite (sand), from regions and vineyards that have been farmed for many generations but have remained the outliers of California viticulture.”  Sure, they do make some outstanding Chardonnay, but don’t miss their Lodi Chenin Blanc or Cinsault, Mataro and Carigane from Contra Costa County, even a Mission from Amador County, among others. The wines have an old-fashioned flair to them, including lower alcohol by modern California standards and are lip-smackingly delicious. Prices are really reasonable too, but you need to try to get on the mailing list!

Last but not least, Morgan Twain-Peterson founded Bedrock www.bedrockwineco.com

in 2007, but winemaking would seem to have always been in his blood. As the son of Joel Peterson who created Ravenswood and now owns Once And Future Wine, Morgan made his first wine when he was 5 years old – I think he made Pinot Noir just to annoy his Zinfandel-loving father. We were first drawn to the Bedrock Syrahs, Zinfandels and Heritage field blends, but we have found the whites to be equally as compelling. Morgan and his now partner-in-wine Chris Cottrell are doing amazing things with Sauvignon Blanc. And if you or anyone you know thinks that Rieslings are not for them, please give Bedrock’s a try; you will change your mind. Finally, the Ode to Lulu is one of our favorite pink wines every year.

Be aware that all of the Big Three reserve the bulk of their production for their mailing lists, so I highly recommend you sign up – or get on their waitlists.

As the weather starts heating up and Karen and I get to being fully vaccinated, we are looking forward to traveling to our favorite wine regions and tasting new varietals and vintages and reporting back. But in the meantime, you’ll probably see another article or two in this series.

Michael Perlis has been pursuing his passion for wine for more than 30 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 President of MCP Financial, which provides outsourced controller services. Michael can be contacted at michaelthezinfan@aol.com or mcpfinancial@aol.com.

Eve Gets Her Zinfandel On…At Elevating Zin 2019

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Michael Perlis and I are both big Zinfandel wine fans. Don’t get us wrong though, we love almost all varietals and our choices are completely dependent on what we are eating or the occasion. If the lesson is Rhones we’re there, Burgundy sometimes, Bordeaux varietals is pretty much a yes, and Zinfandel…well that just takes our collective breaths away. Big, bold, dusty and filled with mature dark fruit and tannins, our palates had been watering for weeks before we attended the latest Elevating Zin event produced again by Ian Blackburn for WineLA.com.

The Turley table pouring for Michael Perlis and Juan Alonso.

Below is the complete list of wines and wineries that were offered. The wines that were my favorites are noted in italics, my notes are in parenthesis and asterisks denote faves of the day. Look for Michael’s article on this website as well. Curious as it may appear, we don’t always love the same Zins, so it’s worth a look to read us both! Your palate may be just like one of ours. (Just want photos? Go here.)

Wine List (Most of the wineries, if not all, were delightfully represented by the winemaker and/or owner.)

Beekeeper Cellars

(These are Ian’s wines and always a favorite for me.)

Zinfandel, Secret Stones, Rockpile, Sonoma County 2016*

Zinfandel, Montecillo Vineyard, Sonoma County 2016*

 

Brown Estate

Zinfandel, Brown Estate, Chiles Valley, 2017*

Zinfandel Red Blend – Merlot, Zin, Petite Sirah, Napa, 2016*

Rosemary’s Block Zin – Zinfandel, Brown Estate, Chiles Valley, 2017

Chiles Valley Zinfandel – Zinfandel Brown Estate, Chiles Valley 2017*

 

Elyse Winery

(All wines are held 5 years.)

Zinfandel, Korte Ranch Vineyard, Saint Helena, 2013

Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley, 2013*

 

Frank Family Vineyards

Zinfandel, Napa 2016

 

Kreck

(A new winery and a new favorite for me.)

Old Vine Zinfandel, Teldeschi Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley, 2016*

Old Vine Zinfandel, Del Barba Vineyard, Contra Costa County, 2016*

 

Martinelli Winery

Zinfandel, Vellutini Ranch, Russian River Valley, 2016*

Zinfandel, Vigneto di Evo, Russian River Valley, 2016 (I missed this one.)

Zinfandel, Giuseppe & Luisa, Russian River Valley, 2016*

 

Mauritson Wines

(Been a fan since Michael introduced me to Clay Mauritson’s wines years ago)

Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley, 2017*

Zinfandel, Rockpile Ridge Vineyard, Rockpile, 2016*

Zinfandel, Rockpile Ridge Vineyard, Rockpile 2017*

Zinfandel, Jack’s Cabin Vineyard, Rockpile, 2017*

 

Portalupi Winery

(The winery also makes a Barbera and Charbono that I hope to review in the near future.)

Old Vine Zinfandel, Dolinsek Ranch, Russian River Valley, 2016

Old Vine Zinfandel, Reserve, Dolinsek Ranch, Russian River Valley, 2016

Old Vine Zinfandel, Dolinsek Ranch, Russian River Valley, 2017

Old Vine Zinfandel, Reserve, Dolinsek Ranch, Russian River Valley, 2017*

 

Ridge Vineyards

(Loved the addition of Petite Sirah and Alicante Bouschet in the 2016.)

68% Zin, 18% Carignane, 12% Petite Sirah, 2% Alicante Bouschet, Geyserville, Alexander Valley, 2017

Zinfandel, East Bench, Dry Creek Valley, 2017

88% Zinfandel, 9% Petite Sirah, 3% Alicante Bouschet, Pagani Ranch, Sonoma Valley, 2016*

 

Robert Biale Vineyards

(Another winery Michael turned me onto.)

Black Chicken Zinfandel, Napa Valley, 2017

Stagecoach Vineyard Zinfandel, Napa Valley, 2017*

 

Turley Wine Cellars

(Interesting to me that it was the two Turleys I was unfamiliar with that were my favorites – from Lodi and Amador County.)

Zinfandel, Juvenile, California, 2017

Zinfandel, Kirschenmann Vineyard, Lodi, 2017*

Zinfandel, Buck Cobb Vineyard, Amador County, 2017*

Zinfandel, Dusi Vineyard, Paso Robles, 2017

 

William Selym 

(Most of us are familiar with their Pinot Noirs, was a treat to try their Zins.)

Papera Vineyard Zinfandel, Russian River Valley 2017

Fanucchi – Wood Road Zinfandel, Russian River Valley 2017

 

Zialena 

Zinfandel, Estate, Alexander Valley, 2016

Zinfandel, Estate, Alexander Valley, 2015 Reserve*

Zinfandel, Estate, Alexander Valley, 2014 Reserve

Zinfandel, Estate, Alexander Valley, 2013 Reserve

 

(Please forgive me for missing these two wineries listed below = palate fatigue.)

Bella Vineyards and Wine Caves

Dry Creek Zinfandel, 2016

Big River Ranch Zinfandel, 2015

Barrel 32 Zinfandel, 2016

 

Seghesio Family Vineyards

Zinfandel, Home Ranch Vineyard, Alexander Valley, 2015

Zinfandel, Cortina, Dry Creek Valley, 2015

Zinfandel, Old Vine, Sonoma County, 2015

Zinfandel, Mariah Vineyard, Mendocino Ridge, 2017

 

(* faves of the day) 

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 5/2016: Elevating Zinfandel via Winela.com

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Elevating Zinfandel was a tasting event I attended, once again put on by WineLa.com, in which the guest could not only sample an array of California “Zin” (the common abbreviation), but by doing so elevate the senses as only one can that attends a single varietal tasting.

Eve and WineLA.com founder Ian Blackburn

For wine 101ers I’ve found one of the best way to educate the palate is to either taste through a flight or more of the same variety, or in tastings organized by entities such as WineLA to taste similar wines, like their (now past) Burgundy vs. Pinot Noir on 5/28. The taster then has an opportunity to learn and then discern the differences in terroir (the common term denoting where the wine was made, so as to include weather, soil, terrain, etc.) as their palate adjusts.

Though host Ian Blackburn may have chosen the term “elevate” as he had chosen some of the finest expressions of Zin, the lesson is still learned:

WineLA has teamed up with some of the worlds best Zinfandel Producers to bring you “Elevating Zinfandel”! An event geared on showcasing the “Crème de la crème” of the Zinfandel community in one fabulous location. With beautiful breads and snacks provided by La Brea Bakery Cafe, you will have the chance to meet with the wine producers as well as purchase some of these exclusive wines.

For me in this tasting, though I bow to the wealth of experience tasting Zin that my Contributing Editor Michael Perlis has had as he is the true Zin Fan (as his email, MichaelTheZinFan@aol.com, suggests) and knew many of the winemakers Blackburn rallied for the event, the subtle differences I could pick out (dark fruit, earth, mouthfeel and spice) helped me select my favorites in bold below.

Wine List 

Bedrock (most of these wines, all blends, started with at least 40% Zin.)

Evangelho Vineyard Heritage Wine 2014

Bedrock Vineyards Heritage Wine 2014

Nervo Ranch Heritage Wine 2014

Old Vine Zinfandel 2014

Beekeeper (Ian Blackburn’s own wine made alongside winemaker Clay Mauritson who was also in attendance pouring his own label.)

Zinfandel, Madrone Spring Vineyard, Rockpile 2013
Zinfandel, Montecillo Vineyard, Sonoma Valley 2014

Robert Biale Vineyards (I’ve seen this label frequently during my staff lunches…brought by Michael Perlis)

Black Chicken Zinfandel Napa Valley 2014
Founding Farmers Zinfandel Napa Valley 2014
Grande Vineyard Zinfandel Napa Valley 2013
Old Kraft Vineyard Zinfandel St. Helena 2013

Brown Estates

Zinfandel, Napa Valley 2014
Mickey’s Block Zinfandel, Napa Valley 2014

Zinfandel Rosé 2015 (a crowd fave, and a great palate refresher for me.)

Chase Cellars

Hayne Vineyard Zinfandel-St Helena, Napa Valley 2013
Hayne Vineyard Zinfandel-St Helena, Napa Valley 2012

Hayne Vineyard Zinfandel-St Helena, Napa Valley 2011

Hendry

Hendry Blocks 7 & 22 Zinfandel
Hendry Block 28 Zinfandel
Mike & Molly Zinfandel

Jeff Cohn Cellars

Zinfandel, Shake Ridge Vineyard 2013
Zinfandel, St. Peter’s Church 2013
Zinfandel, Hayne Vineyard 2013
Zinfandel, Sweetwater Springs 2012

Martinelli (Another Perlis fave and was often covered for Eve’s Wine 101 by contributor Rick Fraga during his tenure with the winery.)

Giuseppe & Luisa Zinfandel 2014
Lolita Ranch, Russian River Valley, Zinfandel 2012
Vellutini Ranch Zinfandel 2012

Mauritson

Rockpile “Rockpile Ridge Vineyard” Zinfandel 2014
Rockpile “Cemetery Vineyard” Zinfandel 2014

Quivira (wine creek)

Black Boar Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley 2013
Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley 2013

Rafanelli

Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley 2013

Ridge Wines

Geyserville Zinfandel Blend, Alexander Valley 2014
Zinfandel, Dusi Ranch, Paso Robles 2014
Zinfandel Blend, Lytton Springs, Dry Creek Valley 2013

East Bench Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley 2014

Seghesio (A Wine Spectator previous designate of wine – a Zin – of the year.)

Cortina Zinfandel 2013
Old Vine Zinfandel 2013
Rockpile Zinfandel 2013

Turley (Not usual to find Turley “cult” wines at an event, or the lovely Director of Sales and Marketing Christina Turley pouring them, this was a real treat for me that I thoroughly enjoyed. And yet another wine that Perlis introduced me to years ago.)

Juvenile Zinfandel, California 2014
Kirschenmann Vineyard Zinfandel, Lodi 2014
Dusi Vineyard Zinfandel, Paso Robles 2014
Rattlesnake Ridge Zinfandel, Howell Mountain 2014

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

ZAP Announces the 24th Annual Zinfandel Experience Tasting Event January 29-31, 2015 at the Presidio of San Francisco

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Grass Valley, CA – The premier tasting event for Zinfandel lovers will celebrate its 24th anniversary, January 29-31, 2015 with four festive celebratory events over three days that feature a diverse selection of wines and styles from renowned producers and emerging wineries. The Zinfandel Experience provides opportunities for both new and seasoned wine lovers to embrace the varietal’s evolution.

64a585_0eac64eea61647a498a151fe7d5e9e62.jpg_srz_p_897_343_75_22_0.50_1.20_0.00_jpg_srzSet at the historic Presidio overlooking the San Francisco Bay and the iconic Four Seasons Hotel, the Zinfandel Experience is the largest single varietal tasting of its kind, bringing together top producers and wine lovers to celebrate America’s grape. “In response to feedback, the Zinfandel Experience is better designed to help attendees make meaningful connections with winemakers, winery owners, and fellow enthusiasts.

Building on the success of our move to the Presidio, the new format for Saturday’s tasting provides each ticket holder with access to all venues and allows participants to taste a wide variety of Zinfandels in a casual and relaxed atmosphere,” said Mark Vernon, President, Ridge Vineyards and Zinfandel Advocates & Producers (ZAP). The 2015 Zinfandel Experience Event Line-Up includes:

Thursday January 29
Epicuria Food & Zin Pairings

6 to 8pm, Golden Gate Club, the Presidio of San Francisco
Mix and mingle with 30 top winemakers, master chefs, culinary experts and Zinfandel lovers while exploring the versatile flavors of Zinfandel at this informal dine-around. New this year is an expanded venue at the Golden Gate Club with the addition of a spacious tented courtyard highlighting its striking views. Taste sophisticated and whimsical culinary creations from some of the Bay Area’s most acclaimed restaurants and food purveyors perfectly paired with top Zinfandels. Friday January 30

Flights! Forums of Flavor
10:30am to 1pm, Four Seasons Hotel, San Francisco

Flights! is a professional tasting seminar focusing on highly allocated, limited production Zinfandels. Experts will offer insights while participants experience the range, depth and character of the wines. ZAP is partnering with the Historic Vineyard Society to present wines from exceptional old vine Zinfandels. Space is limited.

Winemakers Reception, Dinner & Auction
Zin State of Mind – a Benefit with Taste
5:30 to 7:30pm Winemakers Reception
7:30 to 10:00pm Dinner and Live Auction
Four Seasons Hotel, San Francisco

Go glamorous! Mad Men, the popular TV show, is the inspiration for the Winemakers Reception, Dinner and Auction. The stylish, sleek, and jazzy atmosphere captivates as the city lights of San Francisco dazzle. The enhanced reception features winemakers ‘pouring it big’ with magnums and reserve offerings. The intimate dinner hosted by celebrity winemakers features a menu that boasts the best in farm-to-table cuisine. Limited offering wines, one-of-a-kind lots, rare bottles, wine-related experiences and more will be offered at the silent and live auctions. Proceeds benefit ZAP’s programs, education and Heritage projects. Dress in vintage fashion flair and celebrate the mod mood of 1965.
Title sponsor: TricorBraun WinePak

Saturday January 31
The Tasting, 11 am-5 pm
Reserve and Barrel Tasting (VIPs and All-Day ticket holders) 11am to 1pm
ZAP members enter public tasting 1pm
Non-ZAP members enter public tasting 2pm

Golden Gate Club & Film Centre, Presidio of San Francisco The centerpiece of the 2015 Zinfandel Experience is The Tasting, where wine lovers engage in personal conversations with winemakers while exploring the flavors of Zinfandel blends, single vineyards and old vine Zinfandels or discover the distinctive dialects of Zinfandel growing regions. Special workshops on terroir, wine-making styles and sensory aspects will be held. At the reserve and barrel tasting, one hundred winemakers and principals will offer a “sneak peak” tasting at their tables for VIPs and all day ticket holders.

For package details, special ZAP member and non-member ticket prices, information on the ultimate VIP Package and a list of participating wineries at each event, visit Zinfandel Experience. For information on other sponsorship opportunities, contact the ZAP office. Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter.

Zinfandel Advocates & Producers is a 501(c) (3) non-profit, educational organization dedicated to advancing public knowledge of and appreciation for American Zinfandel and its unique place in our culture and history. Winegrowers, winemakers and wine enthusiasts comprise the membership. The common focus is the preservation and recognition of Zinfandel as America’s grape. The Zinfandel Experience is the largest single varietal tasting of its kind, now celebrating its 24th year.

Join Eve Thursday Night for Stars of Santa Barbara 2014

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THE INVITE: Long before Sideways, LearnAboutWine was telling their audience that Santa Barbara winemakers are producing some of the best wines in the world.  We invite the “Best of the Best”, “the brand standards” and “the newest and most up and coming” to our participate in the 10th Annual STARS of Santa Barbara at the 5 STAR and 5 Diamond Peninsula Beverly Hills, on January 23, 2014. Prices will go up as event fills to capacity at 150 guests. 

Tickets purchased the day of event at the door will be $95 General Admission & $150 for VIP* entrance.  

The stellar venue.

The stellar venue.

***VIP INCLUDES***
6pm Early Admission
Enhanced Appetizers; Carving Station
Sea Smoke Sparkling Wine & A special Red Wine Presentation by Jonata
A Brix chocolate gift
…and all privileges of General Admission


*** GENERAL ADMISSION INCLUDES ***
Unlimited tasting – no tickets or additional fees
The Peninsula Hotels 5 Star and 5 Diamond quality location
Limited “light” appetizers:  Pasta Station and Salad Station


We highly recommend eating before this tasting and spending your time with the large number of producers.
The food is provided to assist in the quality of the evening but does not constitute a full meal.
Absolutely no over indulgence is tolerated.

Currently Signed Up to Participate in 2014:

Zaca Mesa
www.zacamesa.com
Viognier 2012
Roussanne 2009
Z Blanc 2011

Z Three 2010

Syrah 2009

Tantara

www.tantarawines.com
Chardonnay Cadence 2011

Pinot Noir Solomon Hills 2011
Pinot Noir Bien Nacido Old Vine 2011
Pinot Noir Lindsay’s 2010
Syrah Bien Nacido 2010


Alma Rosa
www.almarosawinery.com
Pinot Gris, La Encantada 2011

Pinot Blanc, La Encantada 2011
Chardonnay, El Jabali 2011
Pinot Noir, Clone 667, La Encantada 2011

 

Riverbench
www.riverbench.com
Bedrock Chardonnay 2012

Estate Chardonnay 2012

Estate Pinot Noir 2011

Mesa Pinot Noir 2010

Bonaccorsi

www.bonawine.net
Fiddlestix 2010
Cargasacchi 2010
Bentrock 2010
Bien Nacido Syrah 2009

Labyrinth

www.labyrinthwine.com

SMV Pinot Noir 2011
Sta Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2011
HAKA SBC Chardonnay 2011

 

Larner
www.larnervineyard.com

Reserve Syrah 2009
Syrah 2009
Grenache 2009
Elemental Blend 2009


Silver
www.silverwines.com

El Ojo Blanco Cuvee Uno 2010
Chardonnay Sierra Madre Vineyard 2009
Trentotto Fiel Syrah 2008

Fifty Cask NV (dessert wine)

 

Bien Nacido
www.thornhillvineyards.com
Chardonnay 2011
Pinot Noir 2010
Syrah 2010
 
Solomon Hills
www.thornhillvineyards.com

Pinot Noir 2010

Clos Pepe

www.clospepe.com
Estate Pinot Noir 2011
BF Chardonnay2011
Axis Mundi Grenache/Syrah Blend 2011

Kenneth Volk Vineyards
www.volkwines.com
TBA

La Fenêtre

www.lafenetrewines.com
A Cote Chardonnay 2012
Bien Nacido Chardonnay 2010
A Cote Pinot Noir 2012
LF Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir 2011
LF Bien Nacido Pinot Noir 2010
Dr Klapper Riesling 2012

Buttonwood

www.buttonwoodwinery.com
Sauvignon Blanc, Signature Blend 2012
Rosé 2013
Merlot 2009
Cabernet Franc 2010
Trevin, bordeaux blend 2009

Fess Parker

www.fessparker.com
Ashley’s Chardonnay, Sta. Rita Hills 2012
Ashley’s Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2010
Syrah, Santa Barbara County 2011
Epiphany Grenache Blanc, Camp Four Vineyard 2012
Epiphany Revelation, red rhone blend, Santa Barbara County 2010

Marianello
www.marianellowines.com
Cielo Rubio 2011
Estelle Bianco 2011

Lafond & Santa Barbara Winery

www.lafondwinery.com
Santa Barbara Winery Chardonnay 2012
Santa Barbara Winery Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills 2011
Santa Barbara Winery Syrah Santa Ynez Valley 2011
Chardonnay SRH Sta. Rita Hills 2012
Pinot Noir SRH Sta. Rita Hills 2011
Syrah SHR Sta. Rita Hills 2011

Shai Cellars
www.shaicellars.com
Adome – 65% Syrah 35% Cab 2009
Grenache 2009
Adome 65% Syrah 35% Grenache 2010
Syrah 2010

Pence Ranch

www.penceranch.com
Estate Pinot Noir 2010
Uplands Pinot Noir 2010
Westslope Pinot Noir 2010
Estate Pinot Noir 2011

Foxen Winery

www.foxenvineyard.com
Chardonnay, Bien Nacido, Block UU 2012
Chardonnay, Tinaquaic Vyd 2012
Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley 2012
Cuvee Jeanne Marie 2011
“foxen 7200” Cabernet Sauvignon, Vogelzang Vyd 2010

Westerly Wines

www.westerlywines.com
Happy Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
Fletcher’s Red 2009
Fletcher’s White 2012
Merlot 2010
Sauvignon Blanc 2011

Bridlewood Estate

www.bridlewoodwinery.com
Santa Barbara County Chardonnay 2012

Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir 2010

Happy Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon 2010


Kessler-Haak
www.kesslerhaakwine.com
Pinot Noir 2010
Pinot Noir-Clone 2A 2010
Chardonnay 2010
Syrah 2011
Sparkling Brut 2012

 

Jaffurs

www.jaffurswine.com

Viognier 2012

Grenache Blanc 2012

Grenache 2010

Syrah 2011

Petite Sirah 2012

 

D’Alfonso-Curran

www.d-cwines.com

Curran Grenache Blanc, Santa Ynez 2012
D-C Chardonnay, Santa Barbara 2008
Curran Grenache Rose, Santa Ynez 2012
Curran Tempranillo, Santa Ynez 2008
BADGE Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2009
D-C Pinot Noir, Rancho La Vina 2007

 

Paring by Jonata

www.thehiltwines.com

Paring GS  Red Blend2010

Paring Red 2010

 

The Hilt by Jonata

www.thehiltwines.com

Hilt Vanguard Chardonnay 2011

Vanguard Pinot Noir 2010

 

Summerland

www.summerlandwine.com

Proprietor’s Reserve Pinot Noir Theresa-Noelle Vineyard 2011

Proprietor’s Reserve 50/50 2011

Chardonnay Sierra Madre Vineyard 2012

Trio Rhone Blend 2012

Petite Sirah Wolff Vineyard 2012

 

Tercero

www.tercerowines.com

The Outlier 2012
Grenache Blanc 2012
Viognier 2012
Mourvedre 2010
Grenache – Larner Vineyad 2009
Cuvee Christie 2009
Petite Sirah 2009

Palmina

www.palminawines.com

Tocai Friulano 2012

Malvasia Bianca 2011

Alisos (Sangiovese & Merlot blend) 2010

Nebbiolo “Santa Barbara County” 2008

 

Consilience

www.consiliencewines.com

Consilience Syrah 2011

Consilience Petite Sirah 2011

 

Solminer

www.solminer.com

Dry Riesling – Rancho Sisquoc – Santa Maria 2012

Grüner Veltliner –  John Sebastiano Vineyard – Santa Ynez 2012

Linus Rosé – deLanda Vineyard – Santa Ynez 2012

        Rubellite Syrah – deLand Vineyard – Santa Ynez 2012

 

Gypsy Canyon

www.gypsycanyon.com

Estate Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills 2011

Ancient Vine Angelica

 

Sunstone

www.sunstonewinery.com

Chardonnay SBC – Goodchild Vineyard 2012
Viognier – Paso Robles 2012
Cab Franc, Estate 2010
Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate 2010

 

Demetria Estate

www.demetriaestate.com

Eighteen Chardonnay 2011

Cuvee Papou 2012

Cuvee Constantine 2011

Pantheon 2011

 

Crawford

www.crawfordfamilywines.com

Chardonnay, Tin Shack, Sta. Rita Hills 2012

Pinot Noir, Zotovich Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills 2012

Pinot Noir, “22”, Sta. Rita Hills 2012

 

Cebada

www.cebadawine.com

Estate Pinot Noir 2011

Estate Chardonnay 2011

 

Refugio Ranch
www.refugioranch.com
Tiradora (Sauvignon Blanc) 2011
Ineseno (Roussanne/Viognier) 2011
Escondrijo (Syrah, Grenache, Petite Sirah) 2011
Barbareno (Syrah, Petite Sirah) 2010
Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Petite Sirah 2011
Viognier 2011
 
Lindley
www.lindleywines.com
“Sierra Madre Vineyard” Chardonnay 2011
“La Lomita Vineyard” Pinot Noir 2011
 
Pali Wine Co.
www.paliwineco.com

“Huntington” Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir 2012

“Summit” Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2011

Fiddlestix Vineyard Pinot Noir 2011

Cargasacchi Vineyard Pinot Noir 2011

Rancho la Vina Vineyard Pinot Noir 2011

 

Montemar

www.facebook.com/montemarwinery

Sta Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2011

Watch Hill Syrah 2009

& more to come!

Perlis Picks: Free Run Juice

by

“Free run juice” is the initial juice that drains from the grapes when they are crushed but before they are pressed.  My limited understanding is that this juice can theoretically produce wines of higher quality than from grapes that have been pressed, due to reduced exposure to the skins and the chemicals released by the skins when pressed.

Free Run Juice LLC [www.freerunjuice.com] is a wine consulting company dedicated to offering wines of high quality and small production to select restaurants and wine bars. With a line-up that includes wineries such as Robert Foley and Pride, they distribute wines that are of great interest to me, as I am also very focused on small artisan producers.

And when I heard that Mike Fraschilla, friend of (and occasional contributor to) Eve’s Wine 101 had become associated with Free Run Juice, I jumped at the chance to taste through some of his portfolio with the owners of one of our local wine bars.

We tasted though several wines that day and these were my favorites. The tasting notes are provided by Mike F. unless otherwise indicated.

2011 Ca Del Sarto Friuli (Pinot Grigio) — Wonderful aromatics and great body for value Pinot Grigio.

2011 Mariposa “Paso Robles” Albarino — Super aromatics, lime and gooseberry, clean minerality, good acid and great finish.

2011 Robert Foley “Napa Valley” Pinot Blanc – [see my comment below]

2010 Cur Montage “Monterey County” Chardonnay — Well liked by all, great balance, good finish.

2009 Frostwatch “Bennett Valley Sonoma Co” Chardonnay — Loved by all – best Chard of night!

2010 Sextant Zinfandel Central Coast — Really well liked Zin. Super big red berry fruit without being a “dessert or port-like” wine!

2009 Dancing Lady “Old Vine Alexander Valley” Zinfandel — Big surprise winner. An Old Vine Zin with fruit depth & power!

2010 Robert Foley Griffin Napa Valley — The blend everyone liked.

2010 Andrew Lane “Napa Valley” Cabernet — Well liked as great value Cab from Napa.

My own comments:

I thought the Frostwatch was one of the best Chardonnays that I’d had in a while. Very classic style, but not overpowering with oak.

The Sextant Zin was a surprise to me. Definitely in the everyday wine category but with lots and lots of tasty fruit.

The Dancing Lady Zinfandel was excellent, from a winery I was not previously familiar with.

Saving the best for last…

Robert Foley Vineyards makes outstanding wines. Many know him as the original winemaker at Pride Mountain, as well as Paloma and Switchback Ridge.  I’ve been a fan of their Petite Sirahs for some time, and the Griffin is a more approachable and affordable red blend, but definitely in that rich Foley style. And the Pinot Blanc really surprised me, being one of the more interesting and complex PB’s that I’ve had to date.

Keep an eye open for these wines, or anything in the Free Run portfolio. But remember, you won’t find them on retail shelves.  Check with your favorite restaurants and wine bars, and if they don’t have them, tell them to call or text our friend Mike at (805) 217-4518.

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 puts up with him. After a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting tasting rooms and tasting as much wine as he possibly could, Michael had the amazing good fortune 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. At the same time, in his day job he provides outsourced controller services to companies that do not need a full-time controller. One day, he hopes to be able to combine these two pursuits. Feel free to contact him about either at mcpfinancial@aol.com  or michaelthezinfan@aol.com.  (2013 Update: Eve and Michael announced Eve Wine 101 Consulting.  Info is here: http://evewine101.com/press-releases/)