South Coast and Carter Estate Wineries Earn More Wine Medals

June 2, 2022 by evebushman

TEMECULA, Calif. – South Coast Winery and Carter Estate Winery, owned by the Carter family, are the proud recipients of a total of 16 esteemed winning medals at the renowned Toast of the Coast Wine Competition produced by the San Diego County Fair, which takes place annually at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in Del Mar, Calif. The competition celebrates wineries from around the world producing the finest quality wines. Judging by 18 wine-credentialed judges, including winemakers, wine journalists, consultants, educators, hospitality proprietors, sommeliers and wine directors, took place on March 26 and 27, and close to 500 winners were posted on April 8.

“The Toast of the Coast Competition is always a most worthwhile wine judging arena for the fruitful labors of our Temucula-based master winemakers Jon McPherson, Javier Flores and their dedicated team,” said Jeff Carter, president of Carter Hospitality. “South Coast Winery’s Double Gold placements for Meritage 2017 and Grenache Blanc 2020 and Carter Estate Winery’s Double Gold for its Daybreak with bottling in 2022 are accomplishments we are especially proud of achieving.”

South Coast Winery Toast of the Coast 2022 Winners:

Ø Meritage 2017, Double Gold, 94 points

Ø Grenache Blanc 2020, Double Gold, 94 points

Ø Verdelho 2020, Gold, 92 points

Ø Maverick, 2017, Gold, 91 points

Ø Sauvignon Blanc 2019, Gold, 91 points

Ø Sangiovese 2017, Gold, 90 points

Ø Late Harvest Gewurztraminer 2020, Gold, 90 points

Ø 20^th Anniversary 2018, Silver

Ø Chardonnay Sans Chene 2020, Silver

Ø Pinot Blanc 2020, Silver

Ø Pinot Grigio, 2020, Silver

Ø Big Red Table 6^th Edition NV, Silver

Carter Estate Winery Toast of the Coast 2022 Winners:

Ø Daybreak (2022 bottling) NV, Double Gold, 95 points

Ø Brut 2015, Silver

Ø Blanc de Blanc 2015, Silver

Ø Blanc de Noir 2015, Silver

A list of all winners and additional information is available at thetoastofthecoast.com.

About South Coast Winery Resort & Spa

The only winery among the state’s top wineries to claim the title of California Winery of the Year four times at the California State Fair Wine Competition, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa 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, the resort 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 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.

About Carter Hospitality Group

Established in 2011, Carter Hospitality Group, LLC. is a family-owned hospitality company with four hotels and resorts as well as three wineries across the United States. Based in Orange County, California, the company manages and owns a portfolio of luxury properties including South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, Temecula, California; Carter Estate Winery and Resort, Temecula California; and Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa, Texas Hill Country. Carter Hospitality Group additionally serves as the owner-franchisee for Red Lion Hotel Orlando Lake Buena Vista South, Orlando Florida. For more information, visit www.carterhospitality.com.

Rediscovering Jalama and Winemaker Mark Cargasacchi

September 4, 2020 by evebushman

Oh what a treat! I forgot how entertaining winemaker Mark Cargasacchi was! And of course, what a great winemaker he is! It had been a few years since I visited the Lompoc Wine Ghetto, aka the Lompoc Wine Trail, and when I found a photo in my Facebook memories of me at the ghetto, at Jalama wines, I re-shared it. That’s when I knew that I was way overdue for a visit. So overdue in fact that I had to learn that Mark had moved their tasting room to Palm Springs, though currently closed due to Covid. Mark often comes to Lompoc, as that is still where the winery is, so I got my foot in the door during one of his visits.

Mark picking up the wines from the tasting room before our meeting outside.

The move to the desert proved to be quite profitable for Mark, he said he had his best sales there in 2019. He sold out of all of his library wines, from 2004 through 2015, as well as his current 2016 vintages of both his Syrah and El Capitan “signature blend” and most of his 2017s! He did find a few wines to share with us, so there should be a few for you too, even better if you are a wine club member.

We caught up on some local gossip during our tasting, always fun, and heard all about his new spot in the desert. We were very happy to hear how well he is doing there and can’t wait to visit when the weather, and Covid, cools off. And by the time that happens we can try his wines again.

Note: All of Mark’s wines have had no new oak since 2015. So if you use the word “oaky” as a descriptor in talking about any of his wines from 2015 on he will snort, or giggle, as it’s simply not there.

Tasting

We started with a barrel sample of Mark’s Grenache/Roussanne Blanc. It had spent time in stainless steel and neutral oak barrels, with four to five more months to go before he bottles (what Mark refers to as “a second winter”) before he will release the wine. It is also unfiltered and unfined. We thought it was super fresh, good fruit.

Next up was his 2017 Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills. We found it earthy as Mark had described, also with notes of dried black cherry and meaty plum. Then we sampled a 2016 Grenache with 13.5% alcohol, he had just released the wine six months before. We found it bright, smokey, rich and some of those earthy qualities again.

The 2016 Refugio blend of 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah was very nice, with rich and spicy bold blue fruit. A “not so petite” 2016 Petite Sirah was a big wow for me, my favorite in the tasting. Wine Enthusiast awarded it as the Editor’s Choice and 91 points, I would give this wine with a bold 15% alcohol more. Plenty of big, dark and dry black fruit, peppery and balanced.

For a finisher Mark brought out his latest wines, 2018 Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Both needed “another winter”, six to eight months or so, in bottle before he will release, but we could tell they would be worth the wait. The Merlot had outstanding blue to black fruit; rich, layered, spice, smokey and very aromatic. The Cab was bright now, but again, had that good fruit and earthy qualities we kept finding in the Jalama wines.

https://www.facebook.com/jalamawines

https://www.instagram.com/jalamawines/

https://www.jalamawines.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.

South Coast Winery Wins Big at 2020 Toast of the Coast

August 5, 2020 by evebushman

TEMECULA, Calif. – South Coast Winery, owned by the Carter family, proudly accepted multiple awards at the 2020 Toast of the Coast Wine Competition produced by the San Diego County Fair. The winery won Best Pinot Grigio in the competition as well as a Double Gold medal for its South Coast Winery 2019 Pinot Grigio, along with four Gold Medals and two Silver. Additionally, sister property and member of the Carter Hospitality family, Carter Estate Winery won a Gold Medal in the event.

The Toast of the Coast Wine Competition, which recognizes and promotes wineries producing the finest quality wines, took place February 29 to March 1 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in Del Mar, Calif. A total of 633 wines were judged by 15 prominent wine industry professionals – a group that included winemakers, sommeliers, wine journalists and wine business managers.

“We are honored to continue adding prestigious recognition and top awards to our over 3,000 wine accolades accumulated since our inception in 2003,” said Jeff Carter, president of Carter Hospitality, which owns South Coast Winery and Carter Estate Winery. “The Toast of the Coast citings reinforce our mission to use expert knowledge and craft to produce the very best wines, always retaining a sense of each varietal’s personality and terroir of origin.”

South Coast Winery’s results for this competition: 2019 Pinot Grigio won Double Gold and “Best Pinot Grigio” award; 2017 Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir won Gold; 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon awarded a Gold designation; Gold for 2018 Chardonnay Sans Chêne and NV Berenda Road Zinfandel; and 2015 Merlot and 2018 Sauvignon Blanc were Silver winners.

In addition, Carter Estate Winery 2015 Blanc de Noir won a Gold medal.

The Toast of the Coast Wine Competition traditionally culminates with showcasing winning wines at the Toast of the Coast Wine Festival at the annual San Diego County Fair. The festival, originally scheduled for June 13, 2020, has been postponed until June 12, 2021, due to COVID-19.

A list of all winners and additional information is available at thetoastofthecoast.com.

About South Coast Winery Resort & Spa

For more information, visit www.southcoastwinery.com.

Tasting and Lesson with Stacie Hunt: Mexico’s Valle de Guadalupe

May 31, 2019 by evebushman

Had the pleasure of sitting in on a lecture of the wines of the Valle de Guadalupe with the LA Wine Writers at our favorite spot for a wine paired luncheon, Napa Valley Grille, a few weeks ago. Will share what I learned and tasted below, or you can just skip to the story in photos here.

Some Things We Learned

There are over 200 years of wine history in the area, with the first grapes, table grapes, being planted before the 16^th century. Jesuit priests reactivated winemaking in the Tijuana area in 1791. In the 1800s the Dominicans came in, the Jesuits were out, and planting began north of Ensenada. By the 1900s Russian Molokans fled Russia and they too settled in Baja.

Over the years winemaking has changed due to new technology, growing techniques and water issues. (Underground aquifers are being exhausted due to drought. Drip systems can help control the salinity of the wines.) Most days reach 85 degrees, however the nights are at least 20 degrees lower and breezy. Stacie said that the fog creeps over in the morning and like a cat’s paws.

Some of the red wines being produced, with ABVs between 14-15%, include Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Cabernet Franc, Carignan, Grenache, Merlot, Malbec, Syrah, Petit Verdot, Tempranillo, Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, Barbera, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Mision, Sangiovese and other Italian reds.

Whites, with ABVs between 12-13%, include Chardonnay, Chasselas, Chenin Blanc, Macabeo (aka Viura), Muscat Blanc, Palomino, Riesling, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Mision Blanco, Albariño and a variety of Italian whites.

There are many notable wineries including Casa de Piedra, Casa Magoni, Paraleo, Mogor Badan, Monte Xanic, L.A. Cetto, Montefiore and more. There are approximately 200 bonded wineries in total.

There is no system presently, for classifications on the labels, however, like California, bottles have to be made of 75% of one singular variety to have that variety’s name on the label. The only other items on a label have to be the producer’s name, region and the alcohol content.

One of Stacie’s mentors is winemaker, educator and a leader in the field, Hugo D’Acosta. He created an educational facility for budding winemakers in El Porvenir, has vineyards in Bordeaux and Pyrenees and partners with Wente in Napa and Milagro in San Diego.

These wines are “not your daddy’s wine” Stacie said, not like the wines of Bordeaux or Italy though they share similar varieties. The terroir makes a difference in the varietal character, which you may see via my tasting notes below.

The Wine and Pairing

This four course wine paired luncheon, one of many I’ve enjoyed with the LA Wine Writers, was outstanding as usual. Below are the courses, the wines (all retail for $35 and under), notes on the wines and the pairings.

Poached Bosc Pear with Burrata and Endive

Cavas Maciel, Venus Rosa of Merlot

100% Merlot Rose

Valle de Guadalupe

Aroma: Pink grapefruit, pear, pale florals, pebbles, flint.

Flavor: Peach, crisp acidity and then palate drying, a slight salinity.

Pairing: Very refreshing on the palate.

Diver Scallop Crudo with Cucumber Brunoises, Blood Orange Reduction

Monte Xanic, Sauvignon Blanc

100% Sauvignon Blanc

Valle de Guadalupe

Aroma: Lemon-lime, fruit cocktail, white peach.

Flavor: Meyer lemon, crisp, clean and low acid.

Pairing: The fruit in the dish and in the wine made for a good pairing.

Seared Cumin Crusted Seabass, Coconut Cauliflower Puree

El Cielo, Chardonnay 2015

100% Chardonnay (oaked)

Valle de Guadalupe

Aroma: Toasted oak, butter, cream, Golden Delicious apple, rich mouthfeel with some salinity.

Flavor: Lemon, oak, hay, balanced fruit and acid.

Second wine: Vinos Lechuza, Chardonnay 2016

100% Chardonnay (stainless steel)

Valle de Guadalupe

Aroma: Unsalted butter, banana, kiwi, pale oak.

Flavor: Golden Delicious apple (again), oak, buttery with a long finish.

Pairing: I preferred the oaked Chardonnay over the stainless with this dish.

Pasta Arrabbiata with Romano Pecorino

Vinos de la Reina, Sangiovese 2015

100% Sangiovese

Valle de San Vicente

Aroma: A slight vegetal aroma blew off in a few minutes, then I got plums, perfumy, char and a dusty quality.

Flavor: Red to dark fruit, pepper, tannic, dry, jammy. (Stacie said the jammy quality comes from the heat in the area.)

Pairing: Most of the writers inhaled this pairing and who am I to argue? But maybe I was just saving myself for the grand finale.

Santa Maria Grilled Tri Tip Chimichurri, Spring Farmer’s Vegetables, Tri Tip Jus.

Vina Cava, Tempranillo 2016

100% Tempranillo

Valle de Guadalupe

Aroma: Earth, dust, blueberry, blackberry – perfume to my nose.

Flavor: Deep, dark and dusty with black fruit, char and oak. Another wine I will look for again.

Pairing: The spice in this dish enhanced the wine perfectly.

Perlis Picks: Turley Wine Cellars Again

September 22, 2018 by Michael Perlis

Turley Wine Cellars has always had a very significant presence in our personal wine cellar and I don’t see that ever changing. While our wine interests have broadened, Turley continues to be on a very short list of wineries we absolutely can’t do without.

But when we bumped into Turley Tasting Room Manager Malani Anderson a few months ago while attending a seminar at the Hospice du Rhone event, we realized that we had not actually visited Turley’s Paso Robles’ winery and tasting room in quite some time. Obviously, we needed to rectify this.

Our connection to Turley Wine Cellars started in 2000, when they acquired the Pesenti winery and vineyard in Templeton. Of course we knew of Turley before that, having latched onto Zinfandel as a favorite varietal several years earlier. We were also very familiar with Pesenti and had visited them many times, usually to start a day of tasting [they opened at 9 AM!].

Larry Turley had founded Turley Wine Cellars in 1993 and quickly became what is known as a “cult” winery specializing in Zinfandel and Petite Syrah [yes, that’s how Larry spells it]. Acquiring Pesenti in 2000 not only gave Larry access to a great historic vineyard but, in my opinion, helped to bring additional legitimacy to an area that was starting to explode.

Of course, changes were made to the tasting room to give visitors a great Turley experience. We’ve visited many times over the year for pick-up parties, seminars and, of course, just to taste the great Turley wines. But, as I said, we hadn’t stopped by in a while so we were extremely pleased to be able to correct this by visiting with Paso Robles tasting room assistant manager and educator Steve O’Brien.

Steve took us on a quick visit to the Pesenti Vineyard before the day got too hot. He explained that the rains of 2016 and 2017 really provided much needed benefit to the vines, which had been suffering a great deal from the drought; these vines are traditionally dry-farmed. 2018 has seemed to have returned to the “normal” drier conditions. On the plus side, Steve said that the timing of harvest seemed like it was going to be a little later than the past few years had been, also being a little more like normal conditions.

When we first signed up for Turley’s mailing list in 2000, when they acquired this amazing property, we were able to pretty much select everything Turley had to offer. At that time, I’m guessing that Turley made, perhaps, twenty wines, mostly Zinfandel. Now, they make almost 50 different wines, mostly vineyard designated Zinfandel and Petite Syrahs. Although it’s now become impossible to take everything Turley offers, the work of picking and choosing is a lot of fun.

We’ve always admired Larry Turley and director of winemaking Tegan Passalacqua [and everyone else at Turley for that matter] for the focus on preserving California’s heritage vineyards. We’ve also held a special place in our heart for the ones in Paso Robles, so we were excited when Turley added yet another Paso vineyard to the portfolio – the Amadeo Martinelli Vineyard. The bottling is called “Amadeo’s” in the Turley lineup [they can’t really call it Martinelli, can they?] and is another great example of what Paso’s old vineyards can do. The vineyard, on the west side of Templeton, was planted in the 1920s and the Amadeo Martinelli winery operated up until the 1960s.

We had the opportunity to barrel taste with Steve O’Brien all of their Paso 2017 Zinfandels – Dusi, Pesenti, Ueberroth and Amadeo’s – as well as the Pesenti 2017 Petite Syrah. Now, barrel tasting can be dicey; often the wines are not ready to drink and just offer a glimpse of what is to come. These wines were delicious, even the Petite which can often take some time in the bottle to come around. I’m not sure I could have told them apart blind – although I think I could have picked out the Dusi for its always distinct [to me] brambly notes – but I can tell you this much though: I am going to have some tough choices when they show up on the allocation letters. [Not the Amadeo’s though, at least as of now it is only available in the Paso Robles tasting room.]

Finishing our visit in the Tasting Room, we started with the 2016 White Coat blend of Roussanne, Grenache Blanc and Vermentino. Always one of our go-to whites [when available] it is named after Larry Turley’s days as an ER physician.

We followed that with a real treat, the 2017 Cinsault from the Bechthold Vineyard in Lodi. This vineyard was planted in 1886 [wow] and is the oldest Cinsault vineyard in the US.

Then we had a side-by-side tasting of two 2016 Zinfandels – Duarte and Rattlesnake Ridge. The Duarte Zinfandel is named after grape grower Joe Duarte who introduced Larry to the vineyard of Contra Costa County; this is a blend from three of those which were planted between 1890 and 1930. The sandy soils help to create a very soft style of Zin. The Rattlesnake Ridge on the other hand is Howell Mountain at its finest – big and bold. Trying these side by side really showed the differences imparted by the growing regions.

We couldn’t leave without trying the 2016 Amadeo’s Zinfandel. This is really another great addition to Turley’s portfolio. And we couldn’t leave without buying because it doesn’t make it to the mailing list!

Ditto for the 2016 Tecolote blend of Grenache and Carignane from the Pesenti Vineyard. These two varietals seems to go together naturally and the old vines add to the complexity.

Steve reminded us that when Turley Wine Cellars first started, people commented that the wines were pretty expensive…for Zinfandel. Now that Zinfandel is recognized as a quality wine grape [in no small part due to Larry Turley’s efforts], the price of high-end Zinfandel has gone up substantially – except for Turley. I don’t think I’ve seen an increase since we’ve been on the allocation list. As Malani told me: “We know there are many wines to choose from out there, but we want to be a no brainer for high quality and fair pricing and I think that makes us unique.”

We’ve enjoyed being part of the Turley family for almost 20 years. Thank you to Malani for setting this up and to Steve for being such a great host. And don’t forget to visit your favorite wineries – there just might be something great that didn’t make it onto the mailing list!

Turley Wine Cellars

Paso Robles Tasting Room

2900 Vineyard Drive,
Templeton, CA 93465
Tel: (805) 434-1030

Amador County Tasting Room

10851 Shenandoah Road,
Plymouth, CA 95669
Tel: (209) 245-3938

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

Vintage Eve 7/2015: Judging The Long Beach Grand Cru

September 18, 2018 by evebushman

I was a little fretful…panicked is actually the right word, about judging the Long Beach Grand Cru for two days after only serving as a guest judge in the LA Wine Competition two years ago…once. I recognized the names of some of the judges, and personally knew quite a few, but I thought I better up my game and do some research.

I read Factors Considered in Wine Evaluation by Alexis Hartung (printed in the Winter Issue, 1999 AWS Journal Volume 31, No. 4 found online: http://www.bjcp.org/mead/Factors_Wine_Eval.pdf) and then I was also lucky enough to find the actual Judging Process that the Long Beach Grand Cru uses on their website. (It turned out that I was ready, even before doing the review work.)

Shenanigans?

There were no shenanigans during the judging process, but it WAS fun. All those numbered wine glasses crowding around me waiting to be swirled, sniffed, tasted and spat was also accompanied by the appropriate items to cleanse any palate: green olives, sliced gray beef, water crackers and waxy no-flavor cheese. (Good thing our meals were fully flavored!)

Panel l to r – David Stevens, Joe Hart, Stephen Young and Mike Stepanovich

The panel I was assigned to was led by David Stevens (Senior Wine Consultant, Davon International), and included Joe Hart (Hart Winery), Mike Stepanovich (Wine Journalist, Bakersfield, CA.) and Stephen H. Young (graduate of the American Wine Society Wine Judge Certification Program).

These knowledgeable gentleman, and the wine, made my nervousness fall away pretty quickly. Soon we were moving at a good pace. At the end of each round we discussed our findings and came to a consensus if a wine received no medal, bronze, silver or gold.

There was so much thought and consideration in awarding each medal if made me pause, how often do you pause and consider buying a wine based on a medal? As much as you do a wine with a high numerical score? You are doing wineries a disservice to only consider one ranking body, in my now-educated opinion.

Each panel, there were 26 judges in all, had nearly 100 wines to judge on the first day, about half that they second, and finally did a round of sweepstakes “sweeps” to determine which of the Gold medals were all-around favorites of all the judges. Many of the entries and winners came from small producers outside of California.

There was a distinct level of camaraderie amongst the judges as some had been doing the Long Beach Grand Cru competition for 20+ years. It was an honor to join them that I hope to repeat annually.

Dinner, More Wine, and the Point of it All

Day one closed with a wonderful dinner and unlimited wine tasting (wines from the day and more) at Parker’s Lighthouse. Our private room was full and during the first hour or so many of the judges, Long Beach Grand Cru Board of Director members and volunteers spilled out into the patio for a view of the Queen Mary.

It was then that a tall gentleman wearing a cowboy slipped a bottled of wine from Stolpman Vineyards onto the tasting table. It took me about a nanosecond to figure out who that was. Tom Stolpman is also on the Board of Directors. A second after that I learned that he met fellow board member, James McAdams, in law school in the 70s and the two practiced in the same Long Beach firm.

Executive Producer Kim Vu welcomed the diners and introduced organizer Magdalena “Maggie” Davis, who in turn thanked the volunteers. Judge and local SCV sommelier, George Skorka then stood up to say “(he received) dignity and kindness from volunteers, my life is better because we spend two days here.”

“An amazing crew has done this for 21 years and the Board of Directors of the Grand Cru thanks you,” Executive Director, Silvia Arqueta said. “All of the money made from the event goes to the legal aid of Long Beach and the lawyers that dedicate themselves to poverty law. Long Beach has the second highest number of children living in poverty and they work to lower that number every year.”

Tom Stolpman commented that we need to reach out and help others by serving in city council, etc., as that helps the common good and that equals legal aid. “At the end of the day the message of tonight is that we all walk out of here thinking that we are doing better and maybe not enough. Thank you for feeling that.” It was a sobering thought.

The Winners

Sweepstakes Nominees

Alba Vineyard, Chambourcin, 2012, Alba Estate Vineyard Chambourcin, Warren Hills

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Cabernet Franc, 2013, Estate Bottled & Produced, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Anyela’s Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, 2013 Riesling, Estate Grown & Bottled, Finger Lakes

Balletto Vineyards, Rose of Pinot Noir, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Russian River

Bex, Riesling, 2013, Nahe

Bodegas Marilena, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, 2012, Maxixe, Valle de Guadalupe

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Block II & Langley, Riesling, 2014, Block II & Langley, Estate Blend, Michigan

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Medium Dry, Riesling, 2014, Smokey Hollow, Single Vineyard, Old Mission Peninsula

Cakebread Cellars, Dancing Bear Ranch, 2012, Dancing Bear Ranch, Howell Mountain

Calista, Russian River Pinot Noir, 2012, Russian River Valley

Carmen, Carmenere Gran Reserva, 2012, Chile, Colchagua Valley

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, The Blessed Blend White, NV, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Rhode Island

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, 42° Parallel Chancellor, 2010, Rhode Island

Cedar Creek Winery, Pinot Grigio, 2014, American

Cholame Vineyard, Cross Country, 2012, Cholame Vineyard, Barrel Aged, California, Monterey County

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Icewine, NV, American

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2012, New York

Daniel Gehrs, Rocker Rarities, 2012, Central Coast

Dellatorri, Pinot Grigio, 2014, delle Venezie IGT

Easley Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Indiana

Easley Winery, Sweet Barrel Red, NV, Indiana

Elmaro, West Prairie White, 2014, Reserve, America (Country Appellation)

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, 45 White, 2014, Michigan

Fre, Sparkling Brut, NV, California

Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvée, 2006, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Blancs, NV, Carneros

Goose Watch Winery, Cabernet Franc Rosé, 2014, Finger Lakes

Grape Creek Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, American

Harmony Cellars, Petite Sirah, 2013, Paso Robles

Havens, Merlot Blend, 2012, Napa Valley

Hawley, Pinot Noir, 2013, Oehlman Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Lohr Estates, Los Osos Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Joseph Cellars Winery, ZINFANDEL, 2011, Dry Creek Valley, Limited Production, California, Sonoma County

Lopez Island Vineyards and Winery, Siegerrebe, 2014, Estate, Certified Organically Grown Grapes, Puget Sound

Lucky Star, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marc Cellars, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Noceto, Rosato di Sangiovese, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Noceto, Sangiovese, 2012, Reserva, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Pearmund Cellars, Ameritage Reserve, 2013, Reserve, Virginia

Pedroncelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Estate, Dry Creek Valley

pureCru Winery, pureCoz Napa Valley Red Wine, 2010, Napa Valley (AVA)

pureCru Winery, CFM, 2011, Napa Valley

Red Soles Stillhouse, Limoncello – New Brandy infused with lemons, NV, California, Paso Robles

St. James Winery, Strawberry, NV, American

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Gewurztraminer, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Snow Owl, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Twirl, Chardonnay, 2012, California

TWOFOLD, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Small Lot Wine, California, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

Wagner Vineyards, Fathom 107, 2013, Finger Lakes

Wollersheim Winery, Dry Riesling, 2014, American

Red Soles Stillhouse, Limoncello – New Brandy infused with lemons, NV, California, Paso Robles

Daniel Gehrs, Rocker Rarities, 2012, Central Coast

Goose Watch Winery, Cabernet Franc Rosé, 2014, Finger Lakes

Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvée, 2006, Carneros

Elmaro, West Prairie White, 2014, Reserve, America (Country Appellation)

Chairman’s Best of Class

Alba Vineyard, Chambourcin, 2012, Alba Estate Vineyard Chambourcin, Warren Hills

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Cabernet Franc, 2013, Estate Bottled & Produced, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Anyela’s Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, 2013 Riesling, Estate Grown & Bottled, Finger Lakes

Bex, Riesling, 2013, Nahe

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Block II & Langley, Riesling, 2014, Block II & Langley, Estate Blend, Michigan

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Medium Dry, Riesling, 2014, Smokey Hollow, Single Vineyard, Old Mission Peninsula

Carmen, Carmenere Gran Reserva, 2012, Chile, Colchagua Valley

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, The Blessed Blend White, NV, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Rhode Island

Cedar Creek Winery, Pinot Grigio, 2014, American

Cholame Vineyard, Cross Country, 2012, Cholame Vineyard, Barrel Aged, California, Monterey County

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2012, New York

Daniel Gehrs, Rocker Rarities, 2012, Central Coast

Dellatorri, Pinot Grigio, 2014, delle Venezie IGT

Easley Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Indiana

Elmaro, West Prairie White, 2014, Reserve, America (Country Appellation)

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, 45 White, 2014, Michigan

Fre, Sparkling Brut, NV, California

Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvée, 2006, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Blancs, NV, Carneros

Grape Creek Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, American

Harmony Cellars, Petite Sirah, 2013, Paso Robles

Havens, Merlot Blend, 2012, Napa Valley

Hawley, Pinot Noir, 2013, Oehlman Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Lohr Estates, Los Osos Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Lopez Island Vineyards and Winery, Siegerrebe, 2014, Estate, Certified Organically Grown Grapes, Puget Sound

Lucky Star, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marc Cellars, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Noceto, Sangiovese, 2012, Reserva, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Pedroncelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Estate, Dry Creek Valley

pureCru Winery, CFM, 2011, Napa Valley

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Gewurztraminer, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Snow Owl, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Twirl, Chardonnay, 2012, California

TWOFOLD, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Small Lot Wine, California, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

Wagner Vineyards, Fathom 107, 2013, Finger Lakes

Wollersheim Winery, Dry Riesling, 2014, American

Double Gold Medal Winners

Balletto Vineyards, Rose of Pinot Noir, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Russian River

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, The Blessed Blend White, NV, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Rhode Island

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Icewine, NV, American

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2012, New York

Cycles Gladiator, Petite Sirah, 2013, California, Central Coast

Easley Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Indiana

Easley Winery, Sweet Barrel Red, NV, Indiana

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, 45 White, 2014, Michigan

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, 45 Bubbly, 2014, Michigan

Fre, Sparkling Brut, NV, California

Havens, Merlot Blend, 2012, Napa Valley

Hooker, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

Lohr Estates, Los Osos Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Milbrandt Vineyards, Traditions Merlot, 2012, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Milbrandt Vineyards, Traditions Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Pearmund Cellars, Ameritage Reserve, 2013, Reserve, Virginia

Pedroncelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Estate, Dry Creek Valley

pureCru Winery, pureCoz Napa Valley Red Wine, 2010, Napa Valley (AVA)

Reggae Wines, Red, NV, Indiana

St. James Winery, Moscato, NV, American

St. James Winery, Strawberry, NV, American

Swedish Hill Winery, Vignoles, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Snow Owl, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Wagner Vineyards, Fathom 107, 2013, Finger Lakes

Gold Medal Winners

Alba Vineyard, Chambourcin, 2012, Alba Estate Vineyard Chambourcin, Warren Hills

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Cabernet Franc, 2013, Estate Bottled & Produced, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Andeluna, Malbec, 2014, 1300, Mendoza, Tupungato

Angove Family Winemakers, Family Crest Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre, 2014, McLaren Vale

Anyela’s Vineyards, Dry Riesling, 2013, Anyela’s Vineyards, Finger Lakes

Anyela’s Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, 2013 Riesling, Estate Grown & Bottled, Finger Lakes

Barefoot, Sweet Red, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Red Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Berry Fusion, NV, California

Barefoot Refresh, Perfectly Pink, NV, California

Bex, Riesling, 2013, Nahe

Big Cork Vineyards, Vidal, 2014, Maryland

Bodega Garzón, Albariño, 2014, Uruguay

Bodega Garzón, Tannat, 2013, Uruguay

Bodegas Marilena, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, 2012, Maxixe, Valle de Guadalupe

Boeger Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, El Dorado

Boeger Winery, Zinfandel, 2013, Estate, El Dorado

Bowers Habor Vineyards Medium Sweet, Riesling, 2014, Estate Blend, Old Mission Peninsula

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Block II & Langley, Riesling, 2014, Block II & Langley, Estate Blend, Michigan

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Medium Dry, Riesling, 2014, Smokey Hollow, Single Vineyard, Old Mission Peninsula

Broadside, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Margarita Vineyard, Single Vineyard, Paso Robles

Cakebread Cellars, Dancing Bear Ranch, 2012, Dancing Bear Ranch, Howell Mountain

Calista, Russian River Pinot Noir, 2012, Russian River Valley

Carmen, Carmenere Gran Reserva, 2012, Chile, Colchagua Valley

Carol Shelton, Zinfandel, 2013, Wild Thing Zinfandel, Mendocino County

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, 42° Parallel Chancellor, 2010, Rhode Island

Cartlidge & Browne, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, North Coast

Cedar Creek Winery, Pinot Grigio, 2014, American

Cedar Creek Winery, Waterfall Riesling, 2014, American

Chacewater, Petite Sirah, 2012, Lake County

Chatom Vineyards, Cuvee, 2011, Calaveras County

Cholame Vineyard, Chardonnay, 2012, La Presa Vineyard, Oak Aged, Santa Barbara County

Cholame Vineyard, Cross Country, 2012, Cholame Vineyard, Barrel Aged, California, Monterey County

Clos Pegase Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

Cobblestone Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2009, Napa Valley, Atlas Peak

Cosentino Winery, Zinfandel, 2013, The Zin, Lodi

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Brianna, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Fireboat Red, 2013, New York

Criterion, Carmenere, 2013, Valle Colchagua

Criterion, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Coonawarra

Cycles Gladiator, Chardonnay, 2013, California, Central Coast

Daniel Gehrs, Rocker Rarities, 2012, Central Coast

Dellatorri, Pinot Grigio, 2014, delle Venezie IGT

Dominant Seven, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Draxton, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Nelson Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley

Draxton, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Elmaro, West Prairie White, 2014, Reserve, America (Country Appellation)

Eye Chart, Red Blend, NV, California

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, Chenin Blanc, 2014, American

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, Riesling, 2013, Leelanau Peninsula

Four Vines, Zinfandel “Biker”, 2012, Biker, Paso Robles

Four Vines, Zinfandel “The Sophisticate”, 2012, California, Sonoma County

Four Vines, Zinfandel “Truant”, 2012, Truant, California (State Appellation)

Fresno State Winery, Touriga, 2012, Duarte Vineyards, California

Fulkerson Wine Cellars, Juicy Sweet Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Gallo Family Vineyards, Moscato, NV, California

Girl and Dragon, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Veneto IGT

Gloria Ferrer, Royal Cuvée, 2006, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Blancs, NV, Carneros

Goose Watch Winery, Traminette, 2014, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Cabernet Franc Rosé, 2014, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Cabernet Franc Ice, 2013, Finger Lakes

Goyette, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Sonoma County

Grape Creek Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Cabernet Trois, 2013, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Mosaic – Bourdeaux blend, 2013, American

Hagafen, Cabernet Franc, 2012, Estate Bottled, Napa Valley

Hagafen, Brut Cuvee Sparkling Wine Methode Champenoise, 2012, Brut, California, Napa Valley

Harmony Cellars, Petite Sirah, 2013, Paso Robles

Havens, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Hawley, Pinot Noir, 2013, Oehlman Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Hyatt Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Hyatt Vineyards, Rattlesnake Hills

Lohr Estates, Flume Crossing Sauvigon Blanc, 2014, Arroyo Seco (AVA)

Jamieson Ranch Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

Joseph Cellars Winery, ZINFANDEL, 2011, Dry Creek Valley, Limited Production, California, Sonoma County

Joseph Cellars Winery, CABERNET SAUVIGNON, 2011, Bartholomew Family Vineryard, Estate, California, Napa Valley

Judd’s Hill, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Rutherford, Napa

L.A. Cetto, L.A. CETTO ZINFANDEL, 2013, valle de guadalupe, Estate Bottled, Baja California, Valle de Guadalupe

La Chertosa Old World Wines, Zinfandel, 2013, Reserve, Amador County

La Chertosa Old World Wines, Chardonnay, 2013, Reserve, Sonoma Valley

La Chertosa Old World Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2010, Reserve, Napa Valley (AVA)

La Marca, Prosecco, NV, Veneto IGT

Light Horse, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Lopez Island Vineyards and Winery, Siegerrebe, 2014, Estate, Certified Organically Grown Grapes, Puget Sound

Lucas & Lewellen, Malbec, 2012, Valley View Vineyard, Estate Vineyards, California, Santa Barbara County

Lucky Star, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Lucky Star, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Lucky Star, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Main & Geary, Petite Sirah, 2013, California

Main & Geary, Zinfandel, 2012, Dry Creek Valley

Marc Cellars, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Menage a Trois, Prosecco, NV, Prosecco DOC

Myles & Moore, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

Narmada Winery, Yash-Vir, 2011, Virginia

Noceto, Rosato di Sangiovese, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Noceto, Sangiovese, 2012, Reserva, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Oak Farm Vineyards, Barbera, 2013, Lodi

Oak Mountain Winery, Pinotage, 2012, Estate Grown, Temecula Valley

Open Kimono, Riesling, 2013, Washington

Pedernales Cellars, Pedernales Cellars Texas Viognier Reserve, 2014, Reserve, Texas

pureCru Winery, CFM, 2011, Napa Valley

Ray’s Creek, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Central Coast

Red Soles Stillhouse, California Hooch – New Brandy, NV, California, Paso Robles

Red Soles Stillhouse, Limoncello – New Brandy infused with lemons, NV, California, Paso Robles

Reggae Wines, Blush, NV, Indiana

Rex Goliath, Pinot Noir*, NV, America

Rex Goliath, Sauvignon Blanc*, NV, Australia

Rex Goliath, Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, Chile

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Sonoma County Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Save Me San Francisco, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Bullet Proof Sauvignon Blanc, California

SeaGlass, Chardonnay, 2014, California, Santa Barbara County

SeaGlass, Riesling, 2013, Monterey County

South Creek Vineyards & Winery, 2011 Maestro, 2011, South Creek Vineyards & Winery, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, North Carolina

St. James Winery, Vignoles, 2014, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, Blackberry, NV, American

St. James Winery, Blueberry, NV, American

Stonehedge, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Sweet Red, NV, California

Swedish Hill Winery, Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Blue Waters Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Terra dOro, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Santa Barbara County

Terra dOro, Zinfandel, 2013, Amador County

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Riesling, 2014, Lahoma Vineyard, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Chardonnay, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Gewurztraminer, 2014, Finger Lakes

Trailhead, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Trecini, MERLOT, 2013, DUNN, California, Russian River Valley

Twirl, Chardonnay, 2012, California

TWOFOLD, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Small Lot Wine, California, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

Ventana, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Ventana, Estate Grown, Arroyo Seco (AVA)

Viansa Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Sonoma Valley

Vina Ventisquero, Carmenere, 2012, Colchagua

Vista da Régua, Port Blend, 2013, Caráter, Douro DOC

Wagner Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, Finger Lakes

Wakefield/Taylors, Wakefield/Taylors Merlot, 2014, Australia, Clare Valley

Wave Series, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Leyda Valley

Whispering Oaks Winery, Blueberry Blush, 2015, Florida

Windsor Vineyards, Zinfandel, 2013, Platinum Series, Dry Creek Valley

Windsor Vineyards, Merlot, 2013, Platinum Series, Alexander Valley

Wine Sisterhood, Passionate Pinot Grigio, NV, California

Wollersheim Winery, Prairie Fume, 2014, American

Wollersheim Winery, Dry Riesling, 2014, American

ZD, Pinot Noir, 2013, Carneros

Silver Medal Winners

2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Project Z, 2013, Washington

2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Meyer Reserve, Washington

3 Ball, Zinfandel, 2012, California

Acronym, Red Blend, 2013, California

Adored, Red Blend, 2013, California, North Coast

Alba Vineyard, Chelsea Dry Rosé, 2014, Chelsea Dry Rosé, Warren Hills

Alba Vineyard, Riesling, 2014, Alba Estate Vineyard Dry Riesling, Warren Hills

Alcantara Vineyards, Red Blend, NV, Confluence VI, Arizona, Yavapai County

Alcantara Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, Arizona, Yavapai County

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Merlot, 2012, Alexander Valley

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Estate Grown & Bottled, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Alpen Cellars, Chardonnay, 2014, Trinity Lakes

Alpen Cellars, Pinot Noir, 2013, Trinity Lakes

Angove Family Winemakers, Dr. Angove Recipe Red Blend, 2013, South Australia

Angove Family Winemakers, Family Crest Shiraz, 2013, McLaren Vale

Anyela’s Vineyards, Avail, 2013, 2013 Avail, Estate Vineyards, Finger Lakes

Balletto Vineyards, Teresa’s Chardonnay, 2014, Estate Bottled & Produced, Russian River Valley

Balletto Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2013, Estate Grown, Estate Bottled, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley

Balverne, Chardonnay, 2013, Unoaked, Russian River Valley

Bandit, Chardonnay, NV, California

Bandit, Red Blend, NV, California

Barefoot, Chardonnay, NV, California

Barefoot, Merlot, NV, California

Barefoot, Pinot Noir, NV, California

Barefoot, Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, Argentina

Barefoot, Riesling, NV, California

Barefoot, Sauvignon Blanc, NV, California

Barefoot, Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot, Red Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot, Pink Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot, Rosa Red Blend, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Tropical Fusion, NV, California (State Appellation)

Barefoot Bubbly, Prosecco, NV, Italy

Barefoot Bubbly, Moscato Spumante, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Brut Cuvee, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Peach Fusion, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Citrus Fusion, NV, California

Barefoot Bubbly, Pink Moscato, NV, California

Barefoot Refresh, Crisp White, NV, California

Barefoot Refresh, Summer Red, NV, California

Big Cork Vineyards, Syrah Rosé, 2014, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, 2013, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, Barbera, 2013, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, Viognier, 2014, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, Merlot, 2013, Maryland

Big Cork Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Maryland

Black Box Wines, Merlot (2013), 2013, California

Black Box Wines, Malbec (2014*), 2014, Argentina, Mendoza

Black Willow Winery, Classic Diamond, 2014, Estate Bottled & Produced, New York State

Bodegas Marilena, 2011, Malaguena, Valle de Guadalupe

Boeger Winery, Barbera, 2012, Estate, El Dorado

Borrellie, Zinfandel, 2013, Sonoma County

Cabpothesis, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Lodi

Calista, Pinot Noir “The Coast Range”, 2012, The Coast Range, California (State Appellation)

Carol Shelton, Pinot Noir, 2013, Larson Vineyard, Carneros (Sonoma)

Carol Shelton, Petite Sirah, 2012, Florence Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley

Carol Shelton, Zinfandel, 2013, Piazza Vineyard, Lodi

Cartlidge & Browne, Merlot, 2013, North Coast

Cedar Creek Winery, LaBelle Vie, 2014, American

Cedar Creek Winery, Gewurztraminer, 2014, American

Cell Block, Shackled Red, 2013, Sonoma County

Chacewater, Zinfandel, 2013, California, Sierra Foothills

Chacewater, Gwin, 2012, California, Lake County

Chacewater, Nell, 2012, Red Hills

Chalkboard, Red Blend, 2013, California

Charles & Charles, Rose, 2014, Washington, Columbia Valley

Cholame Vineyard, Rose, NV, La Presa Vineyard, Barrel Aged, Central Coast

Chronic Cellars, Spritz & Giggles, NV, California

Chronic Cellars, Dead Nuts, 2013, Paso Robles

Chronic Cellars, Sofa King Bueno, 2013, Paso Robles

Chronic Cellars, Purple Paradise, 2013, Paso Robles

Clos Pegase Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Mitsuko’s Vineyard, Napa Valley

Coastal Oak, Chardonnay, 2012, California

Coastal Oak, Pinot Noir, 2012, California

Collavini, Pinot Grigio, 2013, Villa Caniungo, Friuli DOC

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Lux Pinot Noir, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Riesling, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Cabernet Zinfandel, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Malbec, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Chardonnay, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Viognier, NV, American

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Pinot Noir, NV, American

Cosentino Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, The Cab, Lodi

Cosentino Winery, The Dark, 2013, Lodi

Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Merlot, 2012, Cougar Hills Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Walla Walla Valley

Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Anniversary Cuvee, 2011, Cougar Hills Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Walla Walla Valley

Coyote Moon Vineyards, River Time, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Island Mama, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Twisted Sister, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, River Run, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Frontenac Blanc, 2012, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, La Crescent, 2013, New York

Criterion, Rioja, 2009, Rioja DOCa

Criterion, Malbec, 2012, Mendoza, Uco Valley

Cult X, Pinot Noir, 2013, California, Russian River Valley

Cult X, Meritage, 2012, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

Cycles Gladiator, Merlot, 2013, California, Central Coast

Cycles Gladiator, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California, Central Coast

D & L Carinalli Vineyards, Chardonnay, 2013, D & L Carinalli Vineyards, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Russian River Valley

Darkhorse, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Darkhorse, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Darkhorse, Merlot, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Davis Bynum Winery, Jane’s Vineyard, Single Vineyard Pinot Noir, 2013, Jane’s Vineyard, Single Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Dominant Seven, Chardonnay, 2012, California

Dominant Seven, Red Blend, 2012, California

Don Ernestos, CLARNET Red Table Wine, 2014, California, Lodi

Donovan-Parke, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Donovan-Parke, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Donovan-Parke, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Duck Commander, Wood Duck Chardonnay, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Duck Commander, Pintail Moscato, 2013, California

Duck Commander, Miss Priss Pink Moscato, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Duck Commander, Triple Threat Red Blend, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Dusk To Dawn, Chardonnay, 2013, California, Russian River Valley

Easley Winery, Sweet Barrel White, NV, Indiana

Eastpoint, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Eberle, Zinfandel, 2013, Steinbeck, Wine-Bush & Cocavin, Paso Robles

Eberle, 2012, Paso Robles

Eberle, Barbera, 2012, Paso Robles

Ektimo Vineyards, Zinfandel, 2013, Dry Creek Valley

Ektimo Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2013, Russian River Valley

Elder Rock, Chardonnay, 2013, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Monterey

Elmaro, Vidal, 2013, America (Country Appellation)

Fancy Pants, Chardonnay, 2012, California

Fancy Pants, Red, 2013, California

Fancy Pants, Processo, NV, Prosecco DOC

Fifty Shades of Grey, White Silk, 2013, California

Fifty Shades of Grey, Red Satin, 2012, California

Flint & Steel, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, California, Napa Valley

Four Vines, Zinfandel “Maverick”, 2012, Amador County, Sierra Foothills

Four Vines, “Skeptic” Petite Sirah, 2013, Paso Robles

Four Vines, “Willing” Chardonnay, 2013, Monterey

Frank Family Vineyards, Chardonnay, 2013, Napa Valley

Frank Family Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2013, Napa Valley

Frank Family Vineyards, Zinfandel, 2012, Napa Valley

Fresno State Winery, Sangiovese, 2011, Duarte Vineyards, California

Fresno State Winery, Merlot, 2012, Duarte Vineyards, San Joaquin County

Fresno State Winery, Petite Sirah, 2009, Duarte Linden Hills Vineyard, Single Vineyard, San Joaquin County

Frogtown Cellars, 404, 2011, Estate, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Georgia

Frogtown Cellars, Convergence, 2011, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, American

Frogtown Cellars, Compulsion, 2012, American

Frogtown Cellars, Propaganda, 2011, Frogtown Cellars Dahlonega, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Georgia, Lumpkin County

Fulkerson Wine Cellars, Juicy Sweet Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Galen Glen, Riesling, 2014, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Pennsylvania

Galleano winery, Sherry, NV, Mary Margaret Sherry, Cucamonga Valley

Girl and Dragon, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California, North Coast

Gloria Ferrer, Sonoma Brut, NV, Sonoma County

Gloria Ferrer, Carneros Cuvée, 2004, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Noirs, NV, Carneros

Gloria Ferrer, VA de VI, NV, Sonoma County

Gloria Ferrer, Chardonnay, 2012, Carneros

Goose Watch Winery, Golden Spumanté, NV, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Diamond, 2014, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Classic Cream Sherry, NV, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Snow Goose, NV, Finger Lakes

Goose Watch Winery, Finalé White Port, 2013, Finger Lakes

Goyette, Pinot Noir, 2012, Sonoma Coast

Grape Creek Vineyards, Merlot, 2013, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Bellissimo – Super Tuscan Styled, 2012, Texas

Grape Creek Vineyards, Rendezvous, 2013, Texas

Grape Creek Vineyards, Cabernet Blanc, 2014, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Grand Rouge, 2014, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Petite Sirah, 2013, American

Grape Creek Vineyards, Cuvee Blanc, 2014, Texas

Grape Creek Vineyards, Riesling, 2014, American

Graton Cellars, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Greater Than One >1, 2 Red Blend, 2013, California

Greater Than One >1, 3 White Blend, 2013, California

Hagafen, Merlot, 2013, Estate Bottled, Napa Valley

Halcyon, Petit Verdot, 2012, Vintner’s Select, Lodi (AVA)

Handsome Devil, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Handsome Devil, Red Blend, 2013, California

Harmony Cellars, Red Bordeaux, 2011, Diamond Reserve Aria, Meritage, Paso Robles

Harmony Cellars, Zinfandel, 2013, Grandpa Barlogio, Paso Robles

Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Petite Sirah, 2011, Red Hills AVA, Demeter Certified Biodynamic® Grapes, California, Lake County

Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2009, Lake County, Red Hills

Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Latigo- Fortified Dessert Wine, 2010, Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Biodynamic Grapes, Red Hills Lake County

Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Red Hills AVA, Demeter Certified Biodynamic® Grapes, California, Lake County

Hawley, Pinot Noir, 2013, Estines Vineyard, Certified Organically Grown Grapes, Russian River Valley

Hawley, Zinfandel, 2013, Ponzo Vineyard, California, Russian River Valley

Hawley, Petite Sirah, 2013, Dry Creek Valley

Heliodoro, Pinot Noir, 2013, Dos Sobrinos, California, Russian River Valley

Hyacinth, Pinot Noir, 2012, Santa Lucia Highlands

Hyatt Vineyards, Merlot, 2012, Hyatt Vineyards, Rattlesnake Hills

Hyatt Vineyards, Roadside Market Red, 2012, Hyatt Vineyards, Rattlesnake Hills

Hyatt Vineyards, Syrah, 2012, Hyatt Vineyards, Rattlesnake Hills

It”So, Merlot, NV, California

Lohr Estates, Bay Mist White Riesling, 2014, Monterey County
Lohr Estates, Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles
Lohr Vineyard Series, CAROL’S VINEYARD Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, St. Helena ~ Napa Valley (AVA)

Jamieson Ranch Vineyards, “Silver Spur” Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Limited, Napa Valley

Jewelry Box, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Central Coast

Jewelry Box, Chardonnay, 2012, Central Coast

Joel Gott, Cabernet Sauvignon #815, 2013, California

Joel Gott, Pinot Noir, 2013, California, Sonoma County

Joseph Cellars Winery, Chardonnay, 2012, Thomas LaTour Vineyard Mt Veeter Hyde Clone 110R Root Stock, Limited Edition, California, Napa Valley, Mount Veeder

Joseph Cellars Winery, Cellar Select Blend Cabernet, 2011, Napa Valley, Limited Production, California, Napa Valley

Judd’s Hill, Red Blend, 2011, Napa

L.A. Cetto, L. A. CETTO PETITE SIRAH PRIVATE RESERVE., 2010, VALLE DE GUADALUPE, Reserva, Baja California, Valle de Guadalupe

L.A. Cetto, L. A. CETTO CHENÍN BLANC, 2014, valle de guadalupe, Estate Bottled, Baja California, Valle de Guadalupe

La Rusticana d ‘Orsa, La Rusticana d’Orsa Cinque, 2012, Santa Cruz Mountains, Santa Cruz Mountains/Santa Clara Valley

Lafond Winery, Pinot Noir, 2011, Arita Hills Vineyard, Santa Rita Hills

Lafond Winery, Pinot Noir, 2013, SRH, Santa Rita Hills

Lafond Winery, Pinot Noir, 2011, Santa Rita Hills

Le Vigne Winery, Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Le Vigne Winery, Chardonnay, 2014, Paso Robles

Le Vigne Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Paso Robles

Leopard Frog, Titillation MCC Pinotage Prestige Cuvee, 2011, Limited Release, Stellenbosch

Lions Peak, Lionesse, 2012, Paso Robles

Lions Peak, Proprietor’s Reserve, 2012, Paso Robles

Lions Peak, Vis a Vis, 2012, Paso Robles

Long Valley Ranch, Pinot Noir, 2013, Monterey

Lucas & Lewellen, Rose of Pinot Noir, 2014, Estate Vineyards, California, Santa Barbara County

Lucas & Lewellen, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Valley View Vineyard, Estate Vineyards, California, Santa Barbara County

Magistrate, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

Main & Geary, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Main & Geary, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Main & Geary, Pinot Noir, 2013, Sonoma Coast

Marc Cellars, Cabernet, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marlo, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Gewurztraminer, 2013, Lake Erie

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Pinot Grigio, 2013, Finger Lakes

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Riesling, 2013, Faulkenhauser Block, Lake Erie

Menage a Trois, Merlot, 2013, California

Menage a Trois, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Menage a Trois, Moscato, 2013, California

Menage a Trois, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Middle Sister, Drama Queen, Pinot Grigio, NV, California

Middle Sister, Mischief Maker, Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, California

Middle Sister, Sweet and Sassy, Moscato, NV, California

Middle Sister, Goodie Two Shoes, Pinot Noir, NV, California (State Appellation)

Milbrandt Vineyards, The Estates Merlot, 2011, Washington, Wahluke Slope

Milbrandt Vineyards, The Estates Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Washington, Wahluke Slope

Monogamy, Truly Madly Deeply, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, North Coast

Montevina Winery, Independence Point Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Montevina Winery, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Mullan Road, Columbia Valley Red Wine, 2012, Columbia Valley

Narmada Winery, Reflection, 2011, Virginia

Newmans Own, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Newmans Own, Common Good Red Blend, 2013, California

Nitty Gritty, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

Noceto, Noceto Sangiovese, 2012, Estate Bottled & Produced, Amador County

Oak Mountain Winery, Chardonnay, 2014, Temecula Valley

Oak Mountain Winery, Fume Blanc, 2014, Temecula Valley

Obsidian Ridge, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Single Vineyard, Red Hills Lake County

Obsidian Ridge, “Half Mile” Proprietary Red Blend, 2011, Single Vineyard, Red Hills Lake County

Ogio, Prosecco, NV, Prosecco DOC

Owl Ridge, Syrah, 2012, Russian River

Owl Ridge, Sauvginon Blanc, 2014, Dry Creek Valley

Parkers Estate, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Parkers Estate, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Sonoma County

Pearmund Cellars, Petit Verdot, 2013, Toll Gate Vineyard, Barrel Aged, Virginia, Fauquier County

Pearmund Cellars, Petit Manseng, 2014, South River Vineyard, Virginia

Pearmund Cellars, Cabernet Franc, 2013, Toll Gate Vineyard, Virginia, Fauquier County

Pedernales Cellars, Pedernales Cellars Texas GSM, 2013, Texas

Pedernales Cellars, Pedernales Cellars Texas Viognier, 2014, Texas

Pedroncelli, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, East Side Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley

Pedroncelli, Chardonnay, 2014, F. Johnson Vineyard, Single Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley

Penman Springs Vineyard, Merlot, 2011, Paso Robles

Pico & Vine, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Pico & Vine, Pinot Noir, 2013, California, Russian River Valley

Piledriver, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

Piledriver, Red Blend, 2013, Paso Robles

Poseidon Vineyard, Estate Chardonnay, 2013, Single Vineyard, Carneros

Poseidon Vineyard, Estate Pinot Noir, 2013, Single Vineyard, Carneros

Postcards, Merlot, 2012, North Coast

Promisqous, Red, NV, California

Purple Cowboy, Trail Boss Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California, Paso Robles

Rampage, “Lodi” Zinfandel, 2012, Lodi

Rampage, Red Wine Blend, 2012, California

Randall Monroe, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Randall Monroe, Zinfandel, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Ray’s Creek, Chardonnay, 2013, Central Coast

Rays Station Winery, Merlot, 2013, Mendocino County

Red Soles Winery, Monkeyshine – Aged Port Style, NV, Paso Robles, Willow Creek District

Reggae Wines, White, NV, Indiana

Rex Goliath, Chardonnay*, NV, American

Rideau Vineyard, Estate Syrah, 2013, Rideau Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, California, Santa Ynez Valley

Rideau Vineyard, Siempre, 2013, Happy Canyon Vineyard, Estate Produced and Bottled, California, Santa Ynez Valley

Ringleader, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Ringleader, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Ringleader, Red Wine, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Robert Hall, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Paso Robles (AVA)

Robert Hall, Cuvee de Robles, 2014, California, Paso Robles

Robert Hall, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Paso Robles (AVA)

Rock Falls Vineyards, Chardonnay, 2014, California

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Knotty Vines, Estate Zinfandel, 2012, Knotty Vines, Estate Vineyards, Estate Vineyards, Sonoma County, Northern Sonoma

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Sonoma County Merlot, 2012, Sonoma County

Ron Rubin, Pinot Noir, 2013, Family Owned, Russian River

Roza Ridge, Syrah, 2010, Roza Ridge, Rattlesnake Hills

Roza Ridge, Malbec, 2011, Roza Ridge, Rattlesnake Hills

Roza Ridge, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Roza Ridge, Rattlesnake Hills

Sage Hill, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Sage Hill, Malibu Coast

Santa Barbara Winery, Pinot Noir, 2013, Santa Rita Hills

Santa Barbara Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Santa Ynez Valley

Santa Barbara Winery, Gewurztraminer, 2014, Santa Barbara County

Santa Barbara Winery, Syrah, 2012, Santa Ynez Valley

Save Me San Francisco, Pinot Noir, 2013, Soul Sister Pinot Noir, California

Sea Monster, Chardonnay, 2013, Los Alamos Vineayrd, Single Vineyard, Santa Barbara County

Sea Monster, Octopussy, 2014, California, Central Coast

SeaGlass, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Santa Barbara County

Shadowland, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Washington

Shiloh Road, Pinot Noir, 2013, Sonoma County

Sol Rio, White Sangria, NV, California

St. James Winery, Norton, 2013, Estate, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, Cynthiana Norton, 2013, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, 2013, Pioneer Red, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, 2013, Pioneer White, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, NV, Friendship School White, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, Riesling, NV, American

St. James Winery, Raspberry, NV, American

Stateland, Merlot, 2013, Paso Robles

Stateland, Chardonnay, 2012, Reserve, Santa Maria Valley

Stateland, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Paso Robles

Stemilt Creek, Sweet Adelaide, NV, Signature Blend, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Stemilt Creek, Nettie Rose’, NV, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Stephen Vincent, Chardonnay, 2012, California, Sonoma County

Stephen Vincent, Crimson, 2012, California, Monterey County

Storyteller, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Sonoma County

Storyteller, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Sonoma County

Storyteller, Red Blend, 2013, Sonoma County

Stray, Riesling, 2013, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, White Zinfandel, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Merlot, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Gewurztraminer, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Zinfandel, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Riesling, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Pinot Grigio, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Pinot Noir, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Red Blend, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Red Moscato, NV, California

Swedish Hill Winery, Riesling Cuvée, NV, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Chardonnay, Riesling, 2014, Blue Waters, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Dry Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Cynthia Marie Port, NV, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Maréchal Foch, 2014, Finger Lakes

Terra dOro, Chenin Blanc/Viognier, 2014, California, Clarksburg

The Show, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Pinot Noir Rosé, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Traminette, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Riesling, 2014, Finger Lakes

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Pinot Gris, 2014, Finger Lakes

Three Thieves, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Three Thieves, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Three Thieves, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Trecini, ZINFANDEL, 2013, BRANNAN, Single Vineyard, Rockpile

Trinity Oaks, Caberent Sauvignon, 2013, California

Trinity Oaks, Chardonnay, 2014, California

Trinity Oaks, Merlot, 2013, California

Trinity Oaks, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Trinity River Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Grown, Produced and Bottled, Willow Creek (Humboldt)

Trinity River Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Willow Creek (Humboldt)

Trinity River Vineyards, Sangiovese, 2013, Unfined & Unfiltered, Willow Creek (Humboldt)

Trinity River Vineyards, Merlot, 2013, Unfined & Unfiltered, Willow Creek (Humboldt)

Trueblood, Chardonnay, 2011, Poseidon Vineyards, Carneros

Trueblood, Chardonnay, 2012, Poseidon Vineyards, Carneros

Twirl, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Twirl, Red Blend, 2012, California

Van Roekel Estate, Tempranillo, 2012, Temecula Valley

Van Roekel Estate, Viognier, 2014, Estate Produced and Bottled, Temecula Valley

Ventana Vineyards, Rubystone, 2014, Monterey County, Estate Grown & Bottled, Arroyo Seco (AVA)

Vina Sympatica Sparkling Wines, Sparkling Red, NV, Lodi

Wagner Vineyards, Riesling, 2013, Finger Lakes

Wakefield/Taylors, Wakefield/Taylors Cabernet Sauvignon, 2014, Australia, Clare Valley

Windsor Oaks Vineyards & Winery, Super Tuscan, 2013, Chalk Hill

Windsor Oaks Vineyards & Winery, Cabernet Franc, 2012, Reserve, Chalk Hill

Windsor Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Private Reserve, Sonoma County

Windsor Vineyards, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Private Reserve, Sonoma County

Wine Sisterhood, Magical Moscato, NV, California

Wollersheim Winery, White Riesling, 2014, American

Wollersheim Winery, Prairie Blush, 2014, Wisconsin (State Appellation)

ZD, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Napa Valley

ZD, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Zynthesis Cellars, Zinfandel, 2013, Lodi

Bronze Medal Winners

Carol Shelton, Rosé, 2014, Wild Thing Rosé, Mendocino County

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, White Lotus, 2012, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Rhode Island

Cartlidge & Browne, Pinot Noir, 2013, North Coast

Chalkboard, Malbec, 2014, Argentina

Clos Pegase Winery, Chardonnay, 2013, Mitsuko’s Vineyard, Carneros

Coastal Oak, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Cobblestone Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2010, New Zealand, Martinborough

Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Gewurztraminer, NV, American

Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Cabernet Franc, 2011, Cougar Hills Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Walla Walla Valley

Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Caberent Sauvignon, 2011, Cougar Hills Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Walla Walla Valley

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Chardonnay, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Moscato, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Casa Papa Red, 2013, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Frontenac, 2012, New York

Coyote Moon Vineyards, Marquette, 2011, New York

Cryptic, Cryptic, 2012, California (State Appellation)

D & L Carinalli Vineyards, Pinot Grigio, 2013, D & L Carinalli Vineyards, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Russian River Valley

Daniel Gehrs, Chardonnay, 2014, Central Coast

Darkhorse, Red Blend, NV, No Appellation

De Bortoli DB Family Selection, Shiraz, 2014, Heathcote

Deep Purple, Zinfandel, 2012, California, Lodi

Don Ernestos, Beret, 2014, Napa Valley, California, Napa Valley

Don Ernestos, COLLAGE White wine blend, 2014, California, Lodi

Dona Paula, Sauvignon Blanc Los Cardos, 2014, Tupungato

Draxton, Malbec, 2013, Dry Creek Valley

Dusk To Dawn, Pinot Noir, 2013, California, Russian River Valley

Eberle, Sangiovese, 2013, Wine-Bush & Hidden Valley Vineyard, Paso Robles

Eberle, Chardonnay, 2014, Eberle Estate, Paso Robles

Eberle, Viognier, 2014, Mill Road Vineyard, Paso Robles

Eberle, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Eberle Estate, Paso Robles

Edenbrook, Pinot Grigio, 2013, California

Ektimo Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Dry Creek Valley

Elder Rock, Petite Sirah, 2013, Monterey

Elder Rock, Red Blend, 2013, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Monterey

Elmaro, Marquette Rose, 2014, Robyn, Estate, Upper Mississippi River Valley

Fancy Pants, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Fancy Pants, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California

Fancy Pants, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Folie à Deux, Merlot Alexander Valley, 2012, Alexander Valley

Fre, Chardonnay, NV, California

Fre, Moscato, NV, California

Fresno State Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Duarte Vineyards, California

Fresno State Winery, Tempranillo, 2011, Duarte Vineyards, California

Frogtown Cellars, Disclosure Steel Chardonnay, 2012, American

Frogtown Cellars, Petit Manseng, 2013, Frogtown Cellars Estate, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Georgia, Lumpkin County

Fulkerson Wine Cellars, Gruner Veltliner, 2014, William Vigne, Seneca Lake

Galleano winery, Grenache Rosé, NV, August Grenache, Cucamonga Valley

Galleano winery, Zinfandel, NV, Pioneer’s Legendary Zinfandel, Cucamonga Valley

Gallo Family Vineyards, Sweet Red, NV, California

Gallo Family Vineyards, Pink Moscato, NV, California (State Appellation)

Gallo Family Vineyards, Red Moscato, NV, California (State Appellation)

Gallo Family Vineyards, White Zinfandel, NV, California

Gloria Ferrer, Pinot Noir, 2012, Estate Grown, Carneros

Goyette, Chardonnay, 2012, Sonoma Coast

Grape Creek Vineyards, Serendipity, 2012, American

Graton Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Gray Ghost, Vidal Blanc, 2014, Virginia

Greater Than One >1, 3 Red Blend, 2013, California

Hagafen, Chardonnay, 2014, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

Hagafen, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Estate Grown & Bottled, California, Napa Valley

Havens, Syrah Blend, 2012, Black & Blue, Napa Valley

Lohr Estates, South Ridge Syrah, 2013, Paso Robles (AVA)
Lohr Estates, Riverstone Chardonnay, 2014, Arroyo Seco
Lohr Vineyard Series, Fog’s Reach Pinot Noir, 2012, Arroyo Seco

Judd’s Hill, Viognier, 2014, Napa

Kumbaya Wines, Red Wine, 2013, California (State Appellation)

L.A. Cetto, L. A. CETTO PETITE SIRAH, 2013, Estate Bottled & Produced, Baja California, Guadalupe Valley

Lafond Winery, Chardonnay, 2013, Musque Clone, Santa Rita Hills

Lafond Winery, Pinot Noir, 2012, Martin Ray Clone, Santa Rita Hills

Lawer Estates, Rose, 2014, Betsy’s Vineyard, California, Sonoma County, Knights Valley

Lawer Estates, Viognier, 2013, Betsy’s Vineyard, Sonoma County, Knights Valley

Le Vigne Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Paso Robles

Leopard Frog, Southern Sirens, 2013, Limited Release, South Africa, Stellenbosch

Light Horse, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Long Valley Ranch, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Monterey

Lopez Island Vineyards and Winery, Fireside Port, 2010, Columbia Valley AVA

Lucas & Lewellen, Pinot Noir GC H9, 2013, GOODCHILD HIGH 9 VINEYARD, Estate Vineyards, California, Santa Barbara County

Lucky Star, Petite Sirah, 2012, California (State Appellation)

Magistrate, Chardonnay, 2012, Napa Valley

Main & Geary, Pinot Grigio, 2014, California

Main & Geary, “Rose” Pinot Noir, 2014, California

Marc Cellars, Chardonnay, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marc Cellars, Pinot Grigio, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Marlo, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Marlo, Merlot, 2012, California

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Riesling, 2013, Nutt Road, Finger Lakes

Menage a Trois, Midnight Dark Red Blend, 2013, California

Menage a Trois, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California

Metz Road, Pinot Noir, 2012, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Monterey

Metz Road, Chardonnay, 2012, Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled, Monterey

MillsReef, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Hawkes Bay

Montevina Winery, Amita Hills Merlot, 2013, California

Myles & Moore, Chardonnay, 2013, Monterey

Napa Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Narmada Winery, Tannat, 2010, Virginia

Newmans Own, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Nitty Gritty, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Napa Valley

Noceto, Barbera, 2012, Linsteadt Vineyard, Shenandoah Valley, Amador County

Oak Mountain Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Temecula Valley

Ogio, Pinot Grigio, 2014, Puglia IGT

Our Daily Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, California

Page Mill Winery, Angela’s Cuvee, 2014, Alameda County – Livermore Valley

Page Mill Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, California, Livermore Valley

Pamela’s, Un-Oaked Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County, Unoaked, California, Sonoma County

Parkers Estate, Chardonnay, 2013, California

Pedroncelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Three Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley

Pico & Vine, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Napa Valley

Postcards, Red Blend, 2012, Lodi

Postcards, Chardonnay, 2012, North Coast

Prix, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, Moskowite Ranch Block 53, Estate Bottled, California, Napa Valley

Prix, Pinot Noir, 2013, Montington, Proprietor Grown, Napa Valley, Coombsville

Purple Cowboy, Tenacious Red, 2013, Paso Robles

Randall Monroe, Pinot Noir, 2013, California (State Appellation)

Rays Station Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Mendocino County

Reata, Chardonnay, 2012, California, Sonoma, Carneros

Reata, Three County Pinot Noir, 2013, San Benito, California, Monterey

Rex Goliath, Pinot Grigio*, NV, America

Rex Goliath, Sangria*, NV, American

Rex Goliath, Malbec*, NV, Argentina

Rideau Vineyard, “Daliet” Reserve Estate Syrah, 2013, Rideau Vineyard, Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, California, Santa Ynez Valley

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Charlotte’s Home, Estate Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Estate Vineyards, Northern Sonoma

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Russian River Valley, Estate Pinot Noir, 2013, Estate Vineyards, California

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Alexander Valley, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Alexander Valley, Estate Vineyards, Estate Vineyards, Alexander Valley

Rodney Strong Vineyards, Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, Sonoma County

Ron Rubin, Pinot Noir, 2012, Green Valley of Russian River Valley

Sage Hill, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Sage Hill, Malibu Coast

Save Me San Francisco, Chardonnay, 2013, Calling All Angels, California

Save Me San Francisco, Red, 2013, Drops of Jupiter, California

Shiloh Road, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Shiloh Road, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Sonoma County

South Shore Wine Company, Gruner Veltliner, 2013, Rassie Farms, Lake Erie

St. James Winery, Rougeon, NV, Friendship School Red, Ozark Highlands

St. James Winery, Peach, NV, American

St. James Winery, Cherry, NV, American

Stateland, Pinot Noir, 2013, Santa Barbara County

Stateland, Pinot Noir, 2012, Reserve, Santa Maria Valley

Stemilt Creek, Boss Lady, 2011, Estate Grown and Produced, Columbia Valley (AVA)

Stephen Vincent, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California, Lake County

Stephen Vincent, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California, North Coast

Stonehedge, Meritage, 2014, Napa Valley

Storyteller, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma County

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Chardonnay, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, White Merlot, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Chenin Blanc, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Pink Moscato Bubbly, NV, California

Sutter Home Family Vineyards, Bubbly Brut, NV, California

Swedish Hill Winery, Optimus, 2012, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Chardonnay, NV, Blue Waters, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Blanc de Blanc, NV, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Vidal Blanc, 2014, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Cabernet Franc, 2012, Finger Lakes

Swedish Hill Winery, Naturel, NV, Finger Lakes

Swizzle, Pomegranate Sangria, NV, California

Swizzle, Blackberry Sangria, NV, California

Terra dOro, Barbera, 2013, Amador County

Terra dOro, Zinfandel Port, NV, Amador County

The Specialyst, Red Blend, 2013, California

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013, Cayuga Lake

Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Malbec, 2013, Cayuga Lake

Trecini, PINOT NOIR, 2013, VICINI VINEYARD, Single Vineyard, California, Russian River Valley

Trecini, SAUVIGNON BLANC, 2014, California, Russian River Valley

Trinity Oaks, Pinot Noir, 2013, California

Trueblood, Pinot Noir, 2012, Poseidon Vineyards, Carneros

Twirl, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012, California

Van Roekel Estate, Grenache, 2011, Estate Grown & Bottled, Temecula Valley

Van Roekel Estate, Zinfandel, 2012, Maurice Carrie Vineyard, Estate Grown & Bottled, Temecula Valley

Viansa Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, 2014, Sonoma Valley

Viansa Winery, Chardonnay, 2013, Sonoma Valley

Vino Noceto, Rosso, NV, Amador County, Sierra Foothills

Vintners Path, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013, California

Wagner Vineyards, Riesling, 2012, Finger Lakes

Wakefield/Taylors, Wakefield/Taylors Shiraz, 2014, Australia, Clare Valley

Whiplash, Zinfandel, 2013, California, Lodi

Whispering Oaks Winery, Blueberry Dry, 2015, Florida

Windsor Oaks Vineyards & Winery, Pinot Noir, 2013, Russian River Valley

Wine Sisterhood, Courageous Cabernet Sauvignon, NV, California (State Appellation)

ZD, Chardonnay, 2013, Carneros

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 15k 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. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Vintage Eve Circa April 2012: Music and Wine Come Together via Brittney Westover

October 11, 2016 by evebushman

This week readers get their wine paired with song…in the name of voice teacher, bartender, cocktail server and former Santa Clarita resident, Brittney Westover. You may know Brittney from her time bartending at Roman Holiday Wine Lounge, or teaching voice at our popular VIBE Performing Arts Studios. I know both places…and have been lucky enough to hear Brittney sing myself. I will never forget how she brought me to tears at last year’s Vine 2 Wine Classic, when I stopped working long enough to hear her sing opera.

Brittney, tell Beacon readers IF there is a connection between a love of wine and a love of music. My theory is that if one stops to smell the flowers, aka think about the wine they are drinking or the music they are listening to, that their awareness of all life’s beauty is more apparent to them. Does that make sense?

That makes a lot of sense to me, Eve. I think it’s different for each individual, but for me, enjoying a great glass of wine while listening to music that moves me is like doubling my pleasure, doubling the fun! Consuming delectable beverages can enhance my music-listening experience, and vice versa as well. There are also times when I like to enjoy them separately so that I can really pay attention to one thing at a time, and appreciate it for just what it is. But like you said, it’s your awareness that gives you a sense of connection and appreciation for all the beautiful and pleasurable things life has to offer. I feel very blessed to have that awareness in so many aspects of my life.

Having moved recently from Santa Clarita to Pasadena you picked up a new job at Raymond Restaurant and Bar 1886 in South Pasadena. What do you like about the bar menu there that will tempt us to drive out?

Well, Eve, I have to say that I am thoroughly impressed by Bar 1886’s cocktail program. In addition to an extensive wine list and 3 rotating beers on tap from local breweries, the bar rolls out a seasonal cocktails list that will knock your socks off.

The ice alone is enough to give me goosebumps, as it is hand-harvested in huge cubes or shaved thinly to top off drinks like a snow cone mound. But the mixologists there are really talented, and they don’t mess around! They infuse their own liquor with unique ingredients (try Horseradish Vodka in their signature Bloody Marys and Peanut Butter Bourbon in the Honey Nut Old-Fashioned) and create their own house-made syrups from ingredients like chamomile or cinnamon bark.

They even have “beer cocktails” like this spring’s “Wild Orchid,” created by bartender Brady Weise, which is comprised of Pisco, White Vermouth, Grand Marnier, and Hefeweissen, thrown and served up with a wild orchid garnish.

Flaming garnishes are also common and an unforgettable presentation. I think my favorite cocktail this spring might be Garrett McKechnie’s “El Galgo,” or the Spanish Greyhound, which is made with Serrano chili-infused Chichicapa (a smokey single-village mezcal), homemade agave liquor, and white grapefruit juice. It is spicy, smoky, salty, and sweet, all at once. The combination of flavors is just sensational.

And if you’re hungry, there are plenty of gourmet gastro-pub style snacks you can share off the bar menu, like their famous Pork Belly, cured, pressed, & crisped, Griddled Cheese Sandwich with Taleggio and Jalapeño Jelly, or Grilled Octopus with pineapple, coconut, and ponzu.

If you come for Parlour Hour Monday-Friday between 5-7 pm, you will find a $4 beer, $5 glasses of house red and house white wine, a $6 champagne punch, and a $7 featured craft cocktail. During Parlour Hour, all food off the Bar Menu is $2 off. Honestly, what’s NOT to like about this place??

I’ve been a fan of all that Andrea Vibe has accomplished over the years at VIBE. I just wish she could serve wine at the shows! What is your current class schedule there…and give us a contact number too!

I agree about the wine thing, however, since most of our performers are under age, it’s probably not appropriate! Therefore, we stick with cookies and lemonade or coffee as our refreshments after the concerts! However, I know that Andrea Vibe is a big supporter of Roman Holiday, which made it nice to work for both places.

I am proud to say that I have been teaching private voice and piano lessons, group keyboard classes, and Broadway Camps at Vibe for over 5 years now. I find teaching music to be very rewarding, especially when I get to see my students succeed onstage! I used to teach 4 days a week at Vibe, but since I recently moved to Pasadena, I have gone down to Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. On Mondays and Thursdays, I am there from 3pm-7pm, and Wednesdays I primarily teach group keyboard classes from 4-7pm. My schedule is pretty booked up right now, but if anyone is interested, I would be happy to try and squeeze you in somewhere! The phone number for Vibe Performing Arts Studios is (661) 255-7464.

I know that you’re still “on-call” at Roman Holiday Lounge and I also understand that there has been some other changes in management and personnel. What can wine drinkers that haven’t been there in awhile expect?

Yes, I am still on-call at Roman Holiday because I didn’t want to completely sever ties that I made there. I have had a lot of fun working at RH over the last 14 months, and made some very strong bonds with a lot of the staff, so I am happy that owner, Gunner Resendez, is allowing me to be on “On-Call” status.

As you know, the 64 different wines in the Argon-pressurized, self-serve Wine Station machines rotate on a pretty regular basis. This sometimes makes it difficult even for the staff to keep up, but you can always expect something new that you didn’t get to try the last time you were in! For the ladies who love sweet whites, we got a delicious new Moscato in recently called Allegro, and there is also the White Delight by our local Reyes Winery from Agua Dulce.

For those who love big bold, red blends, I can recommend the Big Easy, or Estrella Creek’s Stargazer, a smoky and jammy blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Petite Syrah. One of my all-time favorite red wines that we carry is the Farnese Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, which has a nose reminiscent of smoked meats, yielding to a delicious, fruit-forward, yet well-balanced palate with a silky mouthfeel. The best Pinot Noir by far would have to be Chamisal.

And if you haven’t been to Roman Holiday in awhile, definitely check out the food menu—it has expanded to include pizzas, salads, petite paninis, and seasonal desserts.

If you’re dying for an outstanding cocktail from Roman Holiday on a day that I’m not there to make it for you, ask Ace to make you a Hot Berry Martini (he LOVES making those) or try my other favorites, the Basil Lime Gimlet or the Vanilla Sidecar. Btw, the Hot Berry Martini is easily one of the most laborious drinks to make. It requires muddling blackberries and jalapeños with Martin Miller Gin, Combier, and fresh lemon juice, and has so much pulp and seeds that it must be strained twice. Ace is totally going to kill me for recommending it! 😉 Just don’t order it on a busy Friday or Saturday night when he’s 10 cocktails deep. If Nicole is there, you should buy one for her. It’s her favorite cocktail.

And, finally, tell readers where they can hear you sing now, or in the very near future!

I plan to take a little time off to focus on recording my solo material and finishing up the country record I’ve been making out of the songs my dad wrote and left to me before he passed away. If you are interested in keeping up with all my musical endeavors, and me please feel free to visit my website at www.brittneywestover.com.

PERLIS PICKS: TURLEY CABERNET SAUVIGNON?

December 19, 2015 by Michael Perlis

I think my head may explode…

We all know that Turley Wine Cellars is “all about that Zin”. Okay, and Petite Syrah [spelled Larry’s way] along with a few other varietals. But Cabernet Sauvignon?

Several years ago, when Larry Turley was being interviewed by a major wine publication, he opined that people drink Zinfandel for the taste and they drink Cabernet for the label.

So, a few years ago, when Turley actually did release a Cab, it was called “The Label.” Admittedly, it was very good, but I assumed it was a “one off” or maybe a “two off” and that would be it and my world would not be shaken. But, it wasn’t long before the name “The Label” was dropped and last year Turley released a Turley Wine Cellars Estate Cabernet Sauvignon.

What on earth is happening here?

And now with the 2013 vintage, two more Cabernet bottlings have been added to the latest release.

Here, from the Turley website, is information about all three Cabs:

Turley Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

Napa Valley

Certified organic, Napa Valley single vineyard, pure Cabernet Sauvignon–not something that can be said by many! This wine has ripe, deeply red Napa Cabernet fruit, rounded out by the savory herbs and garrigue that are the marks of our Estate vineyards. Medium-bodied, with great structure and a solid backbone, which will allow it to age for some time (if you must). However, with its inviting texture and supple, well-integrated tannins, the wine is exceedingly approachable in its youth.

Dragon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

Howell Mountain

When we first planted the Dragon Vineyard, the fact that Howell Mountain is hallowed ground for Cabernet Sauvignon did not escape us. Thus, though we filled the vast majority of the site with Zinfandel, we also planted a small parcel with Cabernet Sauvignon. At 2200 feet, the mountain looms large in this wine, with a powerful nose of pepper, game, graphite, and a touch of sweet anise seed. These are echoed on the full bodied palate as well, and together with the formidable tannins that are a signature of Howell Mountain, it’s easy to see why this is such a revered site for Cabernet Sauvignon.

Montecillo Vineyard

Sonoma Valley

Old vine Cabernet Sauvignon is extremely rare; old vine dry-farmed mountain Cabernet Sauvignon is dang near nonexistent. Planted at 1800 feet up Moon Mountain in Sonoma in the late 1960’s, the head-trained Montecillo vines are nearly 50 years old, and the wine they produce is downright mystical.

The profound nose pulls you in, with layer upon layer of vivid blue black fruits, India ink, scorched earth and violet perfume. The perfectly proportioned palate balances classic Cabernet Sauvignon structure, mountain tannins, and lush textures, culminating in a lengthy, lingering finish. Montecillo is pure, elegant magic, without any tricks.

My wife Karen and I had occasion to taste these wines and talk with Christina Turley about them.

Christina told us that when the Dragon Vineyard was planted, former Turley winemaker Ehren Jordan convinced Larry 15 years ago that one day one of his daughters might want to make some Cabernet Sauvignon. Ehren was right; one of them does. Actually, she wanted three and that’s what winemaker Tegan Passalacqua has done.

All the wines showed good fruit without any overpowering oak treatments, which is one of my biggest complaints about California Cabernet. “If I wanted to taste wood, I’d eat a tree” or something like that. All drinking nicely now but with structure for aging. Definitely hard to pick a favorite.

Karen preferred the Estate Cab. I was on the fence between the mellowness of the Estate and the spicier Monticello until I tasted the Dragon Vineyard. There’s just something about that mountain fruit that hits my sweet spot, especially with Cabernet Sauvignon.

These wines are definitely not just about the [Turley] label, but are about enjoyment and are definitely worthy additions to the Turley lineup.

Limited release, mailing list only, although the Estate Cab is sometimes available in the tasting rooms.

Vintage Beacon Circa Nov 2010: Holiday Tasting by Valencia Wine Company Again!

August 11, 2015 by evebushman

Back for a 6^th time, and better than ever, Guy Lelarge, the staff of Valencia Wine company, dozens of wine representatives from the U.S. and abroad, Chef Daniel Otto and the Oaks Grille staff, gave guests an “all-you-can-taste” shopping spree.

That last part, about the shopping spree, refers to guests that were able to get (from the wine list at the end of this post) a nice discount for bottles purchased at the event. One more reason to attend the annual wine tasting: A jump-start on holiday shopping!

Once again, this being the second once again, I youtubed some of the shenanigans at Eve’s Wine 101 YouTube Channel. But in case that’s not your bag, I’ll fill you in on some of the details here.

Of the 15 tables serving wine I was maybe able to visit 10. The wines that I really dug I italicized below in the list.

Guests paired some outstanding Champagnes, Sparkling, Ice Wine, Bordeaux, Barbera, Barolo, Chianti Classico, Amarone, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Syrah, White Burgundy, beer, Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc, etc., etc., with heavily laden cheese trays and many passed appetizers. The convenience of a seasoned meatball, or wonton, handed to you by a smiling server – without having to interrupt your tasting – was perfect.

I enjoyed visiting with, and learning from, many representatives: Dean Cox of Tanaro River Imports, Robert Posey with Vinifera Imports, Wendy Roberts from Wine Warehouse, Dennis Hyde for Cosentino Winery, George and Jennifer Skorka with Frank Lyn/Angeles Wines, just to name a few.

In pilfering Facebook, I found these public remarks from friends about the event: Jackie Hamby said, “Four hours of unlimited wine tasting. Heaven!” Darlene Gandara thought it “An awesome event” mentioning the Layer Cake Cabernet Sauvignon as a favorite. Helen LaPrairie chimed in that, “It was fantastic! Wasn’t the French Champagne at Jerome’s table delish??!! And so many others!” Rob Trautwein told Guy that, “Monica and I had a wonderful time as usual at the TPC Holiday Wine Tasting! Wanted to thank you again for hosting such a fabulous event . . Cheers as usual!” Stacey Mayfield contemplated, “Another beautiful Sunday wine tasting in Santa Clarita. Thank you Valencia Wine Co. After a few hours, I feel like I’ve spent a day in Napa.”

And, a final one from my Guru, Guy Lelarge: “Thank you everyone who attended & supported our 6th Annual Holiday Tasting held at TPC – it was a huge success and I hope everyone had a great time! Thanks to all who have been there every year and to the new clients who attended for the first time. Without your continual support it would not be the great event that it is. We at ValenciaWine Co truly appreciate you!”

Some of the Tasters

Mark and Julie White, Claudia Sheridan, Bill and Maureen Farrar, Robert and Monica Trautwein, Robert Parker, Robert and Darlene Gandara, Katie Neimand-Figueroa, Randy and Kim Andrews, Kevin Osborne, Guy Lelarge and Helen LaPrairie, Chris and Jeannie Carpenter, John and Jackie Hamby, Perry and Kim Mangers, Michele Buttelman, Jo Ann Vindigni, Doug Gould and Lisa Cole, Dora Zavala, Mike Weinstein, John Adams, Terry and Stacey Mayfield, Larry Mazzeo and Jennifer Haberer, William Friedman, Dr. Mark Jenkins, Ramon Rebel and many more…

The Wine Line Up:

1 – SOUTHERN WINES & SPIRITS:

Simi Landslide 2006

Franciscan Magnifcat 2006

Ravenswood SVD Teldeschi 2007

Robert Mondavi Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

Wild Horse Unbridled Pinot Noir 2007

Wild Horse Unbridled Chardonnay 2008

Borgo Conventi Pinot Grigio 2008

Inniskillin Vidal Ice Wine

2 – SOUTHERN WINES AND SPIRITS:

Candoni Pinot Grigio 2008

Coppola Pinot Noir Directors Cut 2007

Gary Farrell Pinot Noir 2007

Gloria Ferrer Brut Rose

Trapiche Malbec 2009

Chateau St. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Blue Label NV

3 – VIN WEST INTERNATIONAL

Handley Gewurztraminer 2008

Silver Stone Keeper 2005

Silver Stone Merlot 2005

39 North Petite Sirah 2006

Derby Implico Meritage 2006

Derby Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

Grey Wolf Big Bad Wolf Zinfandel 2008

Old Codger Port NV

4-BRIDLEWOOD

LaMarca Prosecco NV

MacMurray Sonoma Pinot Noir 2008

MacMurray Chardonnay 2008

Bridlewood Blend 175 2009

Laguna Chardonnay 2008

5-CHATEAU DIRECT~France

Château Grand Abord White Graves 2008

Domaine Louis Sipp Pinot Gris 2006

Domaine Debray Hautes Cotes de Beaune 2007

Domaine Charles Allexant Cotes de Nuits Villages 2007

Château de l’Eveche Pomerol 2005

Château Moulin de Sales Pomerol 2000

Domaine du Clos des Cazaux Vacqueyras 2007

6-TANARO RIVER IMPORTS

Bindi Segardi Climax 2007

Bosco Agostino Barbera d’Alba 2007

Bosco Agostino Barolo 2005

Beck-Hartweg Gewurztraminer 2006

Beck-Hartweg Gran Cru Riesling 2007

7-VINIFERA IMPORTS

Sant ‘Elena Pinot Grigio 2006

Mormoraia Vernaccia di San Gimignano 2008

Icardi Barbera d’Asti 2008

Villa Medoro Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2006

Fontodi Chianti Classico 2006

Brigaldara Amarone 2006

Icardi Moscato d’Asti NV

8-FRANK-LIN/ANGELES WINES

Villa San Juliette Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Villa San Juliette Cabernet Sauvignon 2008

Villa San Juliette Petite Syrah 2008

Bachey-Legros Bourgogne Rouge 2007

Yves Cheron Cotes du Rhone Les Dentelles 2007

Jean Vullien Chardonnay Cuvee Prestige 2008

Vigneau-Chevreau Vouvray Sec Cuvee Silex 2008

Gualda Young Tempranillo Joven 2009

9 – WINE WAREHOUSE

Trefethen Double T Chardonnay 2008

Trefethen Chardonnay 2007

Trefethen Merlot 2006

Louis Roederer Brut Premier NV

Louis Roederer Carte Blanche NV

Cloudline Pinot Noir 2008

Forman Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

Plungerhead Lodi Zinfandel 2008

Jermann Pinot Grigio 2008

Joseph Drouhin 2008

Ramos Port 10 Year

Ramos Port 20 Year

10-WINE WAREHOUSE~BEER~

Birra Moretti

Moretti La Rossa

Erdinger Dunkel Weizen

Erdinger Pikantus Weizenbock

Anderson Valley Brother David’s Triple

Triple Kameliet

KWAK

Anderson Valley Imperial IPA

11 – VINTAGE POINT

Layer Cake Shiraz 2009

Layer Cake Primitivo 2008

Layer Cake Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

Layer Cake Cherry Pie Pinot Noir 2008

Joseph Carr Cabernet Sauvignon 2008

Joseph Carr Chardonnay 2008

Luna Sangiovese 2007

Luna Pinot Grigio 2008

Hidden Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

Ottimino Zinfinity 2007

12– CLASSIC WINES

Rusack Chardonnay Santa Barbara 2008

Rusack Pinot Noir Santa Maria 2008

Falcone Syrah Paso Robles 2008

Bell Claret Napa Valley 2007

Veuve De Vernay Brut NV

Filus Reserve Malbec 2008

13- AMERICAN WINES & SPIRITS

J Vineyards Pinot Noir 2007

Forefront by Pineridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2008

Root 1 Chardonnay 2008

Chateau Bonnet Blanc White Bordeaux 2009

J Vineyards Brut Rose NV

Nino Franco Prosecco Rustico NV

14- PAUL YOUNG WINES ~FRANCE~

Ployez Jacquemart Champagne ‘Passion ‘ NV

Abbaye du Petit Quincy Bourgogne 2006

Daniel Bouland Morgon Corcelettes 2008

Deveze Cotes du Roussillon Pandora 2005

Deveze Cotes du Roussillon Astree 2005

Damana Crianza 2004

Pinuaga Tempranillo 2005

15-COSENTINO WINERY

M Coz 2006

Reserve Merlot 2005

Reserve Cabernet Franc 2006

Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

Napa Chardonnay 2007

Cigar Zin 2007

The Zin 2007

The Novelist 2007

Couples and Co Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

Couples and Co Sangiovese 2006

Couples and Co Chardonnay 2006

Pure Cos Meritage 2006

Pure Cos Meritage 2006 Magnum

16- INTERNATIONAL WINE CLUB

Call the store for details on their new International wine club! 661-254-9300 http://www.valenciawine.com/

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

THE FRONT YARD – Finally! By Michael Perlis

July 25, 2015 by evebushman

I first reported on the restaurant at the The Beverly Garland Hotel in early 2014.

At that time, Chef Warren Schwartz was taking advantage of the planned renovation of the hotel and restaurant to do a little experimenting. Under the aptly named Warren’s Blackboard, he turned out an array of seasonal daily specials that quickly turned this restaurant in North Hollywood into one of our favorite go-to places in the San Fernando Valley. Of course, the restaurants top-notch staff, headed by Food & Beverage Director Pete Alles, only enhanced the experience.

In the fall of 2014, Warren’s Blackboard closed as planned, in anticipation of the several month-long renovation and eventual re-opening as The Front Yard. But plans change and as Warren’s the restaurant was entering its hiatus, Warren the chef was presented with the proverbial “offer he couldn’t refuse” to become Culinary Director of food preparation and delivery service Munchery. [Hopefully, more on this in a future article.] The parting was amicable and the search was on for a new chef to join the team, with plenty of time to find one to carry on what Warren had started.

And find one they did: Chef Chris Turano cut his culinary chops with extensive experience in Chicago and came to California to become Chef de Cuisine at the Bacara Resort in Santa Barbara, having earned the position by winning “Chef Wanted” on Food Network. Note to Eve’s Wine 101 readers: Chef Chris has his Court of Master Sommeliers Level 1 Certification.

My wife Karen and I had occasion to attend the hotel’s grand opening party to celebrate the renovation. Now called simply “The Garland”, the hotel has an overall brightness and elegance that extends from the lobby to the grounds to the suites. We also recently ate at The Front Yard, which is supposed to be what this article is all about.

Let me start with just a “Wow.” Chef Chris has created an amazing menu designed to not only satisfy the demands of discerning Angelenos but also to give hotel guests a great taste of what Southern California is capable of.

What we had:

Dungeness Crab Roll

Albarcore Tuna Taco

Triple B salad [Burrata, baby Beets, gooseberries, sherry and cocoa nibs]

Grilled Octopus [with pickled ramp aioli, chickpeas, radish salad]

Broccolini Tempura [ponzu, furikake]

Fig and Proscuitto Flabread [fresh figs, shaved fennel, rucola, white sauce]

Mary’s Chicken [Parisian gnocchi, sweet pea, pea tendril, natural jus]

Wild Halibut [cauliflower romenesco, pickled beech mushroom, blond gastrique]

Linguine with Dungeness Crab [fava beans, aji amarillo, lemon]

Across the board, we were struck not only by the freshness of the ingredients [which is to be expected] but also by the interesting combinations that created some unexpected yet delicious flavors. Impossible to pick favorites, but as someone who doesn’t necessarily go crazy over vegetables, that broccolini just had me munching and munching and munching. Other real standouts for me were the beet salad, octopus, chicken and halibut, although that is in no way to diminish the other dishes.

I’d be remiss to not mention the house made desserts. As of our visit they were not listed on the menu [they should be by now] but included a take on strawberry shortcake, a panne cotta with cabernet sorbet, and a sweet/salty butterscotch pudding accompanied with seasoned popcorn. Save room for these!

The wine list has a great variety of offerings and price ranges. It will change as time goes on and they bring in new selections, but here is a small sample from the list that was available when we were there:

Billecart Salmon, Brut, Rose

Dom Perignon Brut

Bonny Doon Albarino

Jaffurs Grenache Blanc

Bernardus Chardonnay

Failla Chardonnay

Babcock Pinot Noir

Meiomi Pinot Noir

Flora Springs Trilogy

Ampelos Syrache [we had this, it was great]

Bokisch Garnacha

Stags’ Leap Winery Petite Syrah

Cakebread Cabernet Sauvignon

Daou Cabernet Sauvignon

The above is just a sample. There are lots more. The by-the-glass program is excellent as well, along with a great selection of beers and craft cocktails.

Corkage is $20, free on Sundays and Mondays.

As of press time, the remodel is almost complete and the restaurant is in somewhat of a soft-opening mode. What has been done to the place has come out stunning and there are just a few tweaks to go. Service is as good as before, maybe even better. They are definitely ready for your business. Come hungry.

The Front Yard

4222 Vineland Ave. North Hollywood, CA 91602 at The Garland