Josh Cellars Launches New Prosecco Rosé

May 5, 2021 by evebushman

STAMFORD, Conn. /PRNewswire/ — Josh Cellars is giving us a new reason to celebrate: Prosecco Rosé. America’s most popular premium ($10+) wine brand is among the first to market with Italy’s newest approved sparkling varietal.

Josh Cellars is among the first to market with Italy’s newest approved sparkling varietal: Prosecco Rosé.

“We all have reasons to toast those we love, maybe now more than ever,” says Joseph Carr, founder of Josh Cellars. “Our new Prosecco Rosé is a way to celebrate and express genuine gratitude for simple, everyday moments, together in person or virtually.”

Josh Cellars Prosecco Rosé has scents of fresh wild berry and blackberry, complemented by a refreshing acidity and effervescence. It is light bodied, pairing perfectly with seafood, cured meats, cheeses and classic brunch dishes like eggs Benedict.

Until last year, Prosecco Rosé was neither permitted nor even possible. Prosecco production is tightly controlled by Italian wine officials to ensure superior quality, making it similar to wines of the Champagne region. To clearly differentiate Prosecco Rosé from other bubbly selections, winemakers must follow specific guidelines related to sourcing and production.

All Prosecco is made in a specific region of northern Italy, with at least 85% Glera grapes. While many Americans may not recognize the name, Glera’s wine roots go back to the Roman Empire. Notably, Glera ripens later than some other grapes, providing a higher acidity ideal in sparkling wine.

Previously, Italy permitted winemakers to blend only white grapes to produce Prosecco. Last year, Italian wine officials changed the rules, allowing for up to 15% Pinot Noir, a red grape. Pinot Noir enables the production of outstanding sparkling wines and it is often used in some of the best white and rosé Champagnes.

“Prosecco Rosé is like a perfect marriage,” says Daniele Pozzi, a fourth-generation Italian winemaker. “Pinot Noir grapes bring warmth and depth to the relationship, making Prosecco even better in many ways.” In addition to flavor, Pinot Noir provides Prosecco Rosé its beautiful pink color.

Josh Cellars previously partnered with Pozzi on Josh Cellars Prosecco winemaking, which launched in 2019. In just a little more than a year, Josh Cellars Prosecco is now the fastest-growing and fourth-most-popular Prosecco in the United States. The Pozzi family now makes Josh Cellars Prosecco Rosé as well.

Josh Cellars Prosecco Rosé (MSRP $14.99) can be purchased directly at JoshCellars.com and through retailers nationwide.

About Josh Cellars

Josh Cellars was founded by Joseph Carr, a sommelier and vintner. Josh Cellars offers bold, complex and approachable wines for drinking with family and friends. Sourced from vineyards across California, Josh Cellars offers 11 varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Rosé, Legacy Red Blend, Pinot Gris, Prosecco, Prosecco Rosé and Pinot Grigio. Josh Cellars also has a tier of premium wines called “Reserve,” with longer oak maturation. Wines in the Reserve collection include North Coast Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon, North Coast Chardonnay and Bourbon Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon. Josh Cellars wines are available at retailers nationwide: www.joshcellars.com

Bushman and Perlis Review 5 Newly Released 2020 Rosés

April 30, 2021 by evebushman

Recently Michael Perlis and I were presented with a few new Rosé wines for review. We didn’t taste together so below you will see notes by either K&MP (Yes, Michael enlisted his wife Karen to help with the hard work) or EB. I will first share the tantalizing invitation, and below that are descriptions of the wines from the wineries followed by our own tasting notes:

Rosé season is finally upon us! We are excited to present our selection of newly released 2020 Rosés, which come in a beautiful spectrum of pink shades. While these are wonderful wines for year-round enjoyment, there’s just something special about sipping a glass of pink during the springtime, when the weather begins to feel warmer, flowers bloom and days start to lengthen.

Jean-Luc Colombo Cape Bleue Rosé 2020 (750ml/$14.99): Jean-Luc Colombo is an estate built upon innovation, passion, and dedication to winemaking. From the stony, limestone vineyards nestled in the hills above the bay of Marseille near Provence comes Cape Bleue Rosé – a wine of pure elegance and freshness with pronounced raspberry aromas over a core of red fruit, classic watermelon and peach notes. An elegant mouthfeel, fluid and round with ample length and crisp finish. K&MP: Very intense with flavors of Gala apple and Anjou pear from the Mourvedre that wrap around the smokiness of the Syrah. We paired the wine with a roasted Pork Loin marinated in a ginger scallion sesame sauce with a few red pepper flakes thrown in. The wine was a great accompaniment. This was MP’s favorite – guess he’s a cheap date.

Côté Mas Aurore Rosé Pays d’Oc IGP 2020 (750ml/$13.99): Côté Mas Aurore Rosé captures the essence of its Mediterranean region’s charm, offering a rich and smooth palate full of cherry, strawberry and floral aromas evolving toward soft candied fruit notes. The palate is rich and smooth with ripe red fruits and well-balanced acidity. Enjoy as an aperitif or pair with grilled chicken, shrimp, and goat cheese salads. EB: I’ll admit I chose this wine to review as the label design attracted me: a couple from the past – he wore an old fashioned straw hat – sitting for some wine with the vineyard in the background, all painted with pastel pinks, blue, yellow and green. The color of the wine itself, a pastel pink, coordinated perfectly. Now, to smell, I got aromas of cherry blossoms, fresh cut watermelon, lemon and lime zest, dried berries and wet stones; for the flavor there was welcoming crisp apple, juicy red fruit, and a mild to medium acidity which gave away to a nice length. We enjoyed this as recommended, as an aperitif. 50% Grenache, 30% Cinsault, 10% Syrah and 10% Vermentino. I would buy this wine.

Valdo Prosecco DOC Rosé 2020 (750ml/$15.99): One of the must-try wines from the newly approved category designation, Prosecco DOC Rosé, Marca Oro has a lovely pink hue and persistent perlage. On the nose, inviting floral notes lead to apple, pear, and small red berries. The palate is delicate, fruity, pleasantly harmonious with a long finish. This is perfect as an aperitif, and it pairs perfectly with pasta, fish, and tartare. EB: The color, of a perfectly ripe peach, and oodles of dancing bubbles definitely drew me in, including the three Prosecco lovers that shared this bottle with me. On the nose there was a wealth of raspberry, strawberry, toasted French baguette, wet river rock and white flower – all very enticing. One guest commented on the taste that the bubbly was fruit forward, as I got with more than a hint of ripe raspberry, bright strawberry, a feeling of general freshness, a nice low acidity, and that same raspberry from the nose to the taste lingered through to the finish. Pinot Noir and Glera grapes. My guests took photos of the wine in the hopes of finding it. I would also like to find this wine again.

Bertani Bertarose 2020 (750ml/$19.99): Bertarose is one of the oldest wines of the Bertani winery, and a blend of 75% Molinara and 25% Merlot grapes. Fresh aromas of pomegranate and red currants with notes of white flowers. Decisive on the palate, medium bodied with deft balance between acidity and tanginess. Excellent length. Perfect as an aperitif, it also goes well with salads, delicate-flavored pasta dishes and white meat. K&MP: Very clean nose and finish. Nice smooth mouthfeel as well. We got some citrus/lemon notes as well as pear. This wine was very refreshing yet full bodied enough to stand up to the mini-Reubens that we paired it with. They’ve been making this wine since the 1930s and they definitely know what they are doing. Very interesting blend as well as the approach of fermenting the Molinara on the skins and the Merlot off the skins. Makes for a pretty complex wine, which is not unexpected for a winery credited with creating the first commercial dry Amarone.

Planeta Sicilia DOC Rosé 2020 (750ml/$19.99): A blend of 50% Nero d’Avola and 50% Syrah, this fresh, fruit-forward rosé represents all the feelings of a Sicilian summer. The fresh aromas of strawberry make it a marvelously friendly wine, and easy to drink. Enjoy Planeta Rosé in good company, as an aperitif with tapas, raw fish, fresh salads or alone with seasonal fruit. K&MP: Light in color and nose, which makes sense as the wine is vinified like a white wine. Fragrance of Jasmine tea leaves. Seemed to bounce off the palate with its brightness. We paired this with a margarita pizza that we had added smoked salmon to and it matched perfectly. This would be great on a late summer California afternoon/evening with passed appetizers.

Find where to purchase any of these wines via Taub Family Selections:

https://www.taubfamilyselections.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.

Perlises Pick: What Wines We Are Drinking At Home – Part 3

April 24, 2021 by Michael Perlis

When I started writing this series of articles about the lighter wines Karen and I have been drinking recently, I hadn’t really thought that so many of them would be from Paso Robles. After all, Paso’s reputation [at least in my mind] is for big delicious Reds, and there certainly are a lot of those coming from this area. And we don’t limit ourselves to PR’s AVAs, as I expect you know. But, as I’ve said, great winemakers make great wine, regardless of color, and here are three more wineries that produce some of our favorite lighter wines from the area. As an added bonus, they are all somehow connected to each other.

We’ve actually known Guillaume Fabre of Clos Solene www.clossolene.com the longest of these three, having met him at an event back in 2009. He was pouring his first vintage – a delicious Roussanne – and was still assistant winemaker at L’Aventure. But 2009 was long ago. We’ve followed him to the shared Paso Underground tasting room in downtown to Paso Robles and then to Tin City just south of downtown Paso. Now he and his wife Solene have their own property in the Willow Creek District of Paso Robles, from which they are creating some of the best wines in the region. I’ve always felt that his Red wines did a great job of showing how their inherent power could be softened into elegance without losing the characteristics of Paso.

The lighter wines are equally as stylish. Karen loves all of them when “paired with our “Snacks– Hunkered Down” nights of charcuterie and/or smoked fish, various cheeses, dried and fresh fruit, followed by lemon cookies or a scoop of ice cream.”

The pink La Rose is a Rhone blend of Grenache, Mourvedre, Cinsault and Syrah, made from grapes specifically farmed for rosé – no saignee here! Very pale in color that belies the complexity of the wine itself.

Clos Solene’s Hommage Blanc is a classic white Rhone blend of mainly Roussanne plus Viognier and Grenache Blanc. Karen found it to be “full bodied…flowers, fruit, spices…”

Finally, En Coulisse is 100% Chardonnay from Santa Maria Valley’s Bien Nacido Vineyards. A nice rich Chard, and [per Karen] “not overpowering with oak, vanilla or butter but fruit forward…”

Guillaume is also partner in another Paso Robles winery with his brother Arnaud –

Benom Wines www.benomwines.com. They originally took over Clos Solene’s spot in Tin City, although I believe they have now moved to a larger space in the same area.

The name Benom is a riff on the French word “binôme” which translates to “a project together”. These French brothers have successfully combined their homeland’s heritage with all that Paso has to offer, with their blends showing what can be done by them in a place with no rules. No surprise, again, that the red wines are great, but this article is focusing on these lighter wines.

The L’Essor rosé combines Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon and Contrast is a blend of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Neither of these could be made back home due to the rules about combining grapes from different regions. And they clearly should be. Karen loved the “bright fruit” of the L’Essor and found the Contrast to be “crisp, clean, full of fruit…”

As I mentioned at the start, this article is about three wineries that are somehow connected. Arnaud Fabre of Benom is also marketing director at Law Estate Wines www.lawestatewines.com, another winery that we first tasted at a festival. This time it was the Ojai Wine Festival back in 2013, when Karen came up to me and said “you really have to try Law”. As always, she was right and we have been big fans since. We met GM Oliver Esparham at the Ojai Festival and have visited him and the rest of our friends at Law at the state-of-the-art winery and tasting room many times – once even before it was complete. The winery and vineyards high up on Peachy Canyon are amazing in their own right. But, that would mean nothing if the wines didn’t match. And they definitely do. The Law wines are truly some of the best ones around.

With regard to lighter wines, Law makes two. The Rosé blend is typically Grenache based while the white Rhone blend Soph [named after the Laws’ granddaughter] is usually about half Roussanne. The exact blends vary from year to year for both of these, but they are always stunning and are present on our table [and in our glasses] often. I love that the description on the website refers to Soph as “an extremely moreish wine”. We definitely agree on that.

Next article, we’ll finally leave Paso Robles and look at wines from farther north. Unless I change my mind.

Clos Solene

www.clossolene.com

Benom

www.benomwines.com

Law Estate Wines

www.lawestatewines.com

Michael Perlis has been pursuing his passion for wine for more than 30 years. He has had the good fortune of having numerous mentors to show him the way, as well as a wonderful wife who encourages him and shares his interest. After a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting wineries and vineyards, and tasting as much wine as he possibly could, he had the amazing luck to meet Eve Bushman. Now, as Contributing Editor for Eve’s Wine 101, he does his best to bring as much information as possible about wine to Eve’s Wine 101 faithful readers. Michael is also President of MCP Financial, which provides outsourced controller services. Michael can be contacted at michaelthezinfan@aol.com or mcpfinancial@aol.com.

Introducing Corvezzo: New from Italy Organically Grown, Vegan Wines from the Veneto

April 12, 2021 by evebushman

MIAMI (PRWEB) – Corvezzo makes its U.S. debut with three wines: a Pinot Grigio 2019 delle Venezie DOC, a Prosecco DOC Treviso Extra Dry, and a Prosecco DOC Rosé Extra Dry Millesimato. Available nationwide, all three are line-priced, with an SRP of $13.00.

Corvezzo family photo from Social Vignerons website.

“Giovanni Corvezzo and his family farm 380 acres – large enough to be a reliable supplier, small enough for that hands-on, quality touch. This is in keeping with our philosophy at Origins Organic, which is to deliver excellent quality organically grown wines at an affordable price.” — Labid Ameri, Co-owner, Origins Organic Imports

Founded in 1960 and based in the village of Cessalto near Treviso, Corvezzo was awarded organic certification in 2017. Transition to 100% organically farmed vineyards began under third-generation owner/winemaker Giovanni Corvezzo, soon after he took over at the helm in 2009. According to Corvezzo, who describes his winery’s signature style as fresh and bright, organic farming ultimately results in thicker grape skins, leading to heightened aromas, greater balance, and superior quality wines.

Corvezzo Pinot Grigio 2019 delle Venezie DOC balances peach and tropical notes with a persistent minerality. The wine’s appealing roundness is due to the 5% aged in oak.

Corvezzo Prosecco DOC Treviso Extra Dry: Pear, green apple and acacia flowers distinguish this well-knit blend of 85% Glera, with 10% Chardonnay added for structure and 5% Pinot Bianco for greater elegance and aroma.

Corvezzo Prosecco DOC Rosé Extra Dry Millesimato: An exciting addition to this new category. Pinot Nero at 15% (the legal maximum) added to the Glera base gives the wine an intense flavor of wild strawberries and small red berries. Fresh and strong on the attack, flavors of acacia flowers and citrus linger in the long finish. To maintain freshness, the wine stays in tank only 60 days.

CORVEZZO PINOT GRIGIO 2019 DELLE VENEZIE DOC
CORVEZZO PROSECCO DOC TREVISO EXTRA DRY
CORVEZZO PROSECCO DOC ROSÉ EXTRA DRY MILLESIMATO
SRP $13 / Imported by Origins Organic Imports, Miami, FL

Origins Organic Imports is headed up by husband-and-wife team Labid Ameri and Anne Bousquet, owners of Domaine Bousquet, Argentina’s leading purveyor of organically grown wines. The Miami-based importer is dedicated to sourcing organically farmed wines from producers that share Ameri and Bousquet’s commitment to quality, conscience, and value. http://www.originsorganicimports.com

Vintage Eve Circa 11/2018 – One Bottle Post: Coruce Vineyards Rose of Pinot

March 30, 2021 by evebushman

Met Bruce Burch many times at Wine in the Pines, and other events, over the years. He is one of a handful of winemakers located in the High Desert whose work I respect. When he sent me his latest Rose of Pinot Noir for review I noted that the back label designated that the wine came for the “Antelope Valley of the California High Desert”, it had been “hand harvested, table sorted, then pressed whole cluster and settled. Cool fermented for 3 weeks then racked into neutral French oak barrels for 3 months prior to bottling.” So you can see why this wine is worthy of respect and I looked forward to sampling it.

Coreen Savikko and Bruce Burch, Coruce vineyards

Bruce suggested that I wait for “a day warm enough to be worthy of a summer sipper” which came easily, on the last weekend of October. It would probably be the last tasting of the year from my porch in Happy Valley Newhall, where the temperature was cooling down to 88 degrees that evening.

2017 Rose of Pinot

13.8% alcohol, .14% residual sugar. 60 cases produced

Tasting notes from the back label: Flavors and aromas of cherries, strawberries, and violets with a rose petal and cedar finish. Crisp and dry.

My tasting notes:

Many people know that I’m not a big Pinot fan, but I do like Rose, and love trying all kinds. The color was a lovely dark peach to salmon, what my daughter referred to as the new peach emoji. The aroma for me included sliced peaches, pears, white grape juice, kiwi, granite and cream. On the mouth I was somehow reminded of Japanese plum wine – which I never drink as is, only on ice with a squeeze of lemon – with lovely fresh red berries, white pepper, low acid, and as Bruce suggested, it proved to be an easy sipper to carry me over until dinner. If I were to pair this I’d be happy with hard cheeses, a light pasta dish with crab or salmon, followed by a deep bowl of mixed berries and fresh whipped cream. 89 Eve pts.

About Coruce Vineyards and Winery

Proprietors Coreen Savikko and Bruce Burch began growing wine grapes in the Antelope Valley in 2000 and began producing award winning homemade wines as soon as the vines became mature. Our High Desert Zinfandel, Syrah, Viognier, and Symphony varietal wines have all won medals, from bronze to gold, in local and international competitions. Turning pro in 2013, we hired winemaker Bob Balentine after sampling his (and other winemakers’) efforts.

Our Land

2012 was our first harvest at Coruce, and we produced Chardonnay, Semillon, Syrah and Zinfandel from the Antelope Valley. Eventually we will feature Antelope Valley wines nearly exclusively. Meanwhile we also feature other fine wines Bob has produced from the Central Coast including a complex Syrah, a lip smacking Zin, and a mind bogglingly big Viognier. The 2013 harvest included a Malbec, Chardonnay, Semillon, and Merlot. By the 2014 season we also brought in a local Viognier and an uncommon varietal known as “Symphony” a white California hybrid with a rich floral nose. Done off-dry it resembles the best Gewürztraminers. As a sweetie/sticky it’s an unctuously decadent desert.

Our Wines

Bob has a long history of producing his own wines (Line Shack Wines, The 411 Wine Company) as well as private labels for smaller operations and directing winemaking operations for a full scale winery like ours. As you’ll find when you try our wines, Bob has perfected the art of creating rich, fulfilling, and downright tasty wines.

Our tasting room in Lancaster, California opened its doors on January 28, 2017. Follow us, starting now; it’s going to be an exciting adventure!

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corucewinery/

Website: https://corucevineyardsandwinery.com/

Phone: (661) 494-8877

Address: 1055 West Columbia Way (Ave M) Suite #5 Lancaster, CA 93534

Tasting Room Hours:

2021: Please contact the winery for current hours.

This Passover Enjoy a Round-The-World Wine Adventure without leaving home

March 14, 2021 by evebushman

The question posed annually at the Passover Seder – “Why is this night different from all other nights” – takes on a special meaning again this year. No doubt, this year’s Seder will be unusual, but the trying circumstances can also be an opportunity to relate to aspects of Passover in a different manner than in the past. Central to the Seder is the commandment to drink four cups of wine. Should it be just any wine? Or should this year’s four cups be filled with the finest?

Bayonne, NJ – This Passover, spend your holiday in Israel, Italy, or France — without ever having to leave your Seder table. NJ-based Royal Wine, the world’s largest purveyor of kosher wines and spirits, offers exceptional Passover selections from around the globe – including a label from NBA All-Star Amaré Stoudemire — in a wide range of tastes and prices.

Kosher wines have experienced a renaissance over the past two decades. Believe it or not, the best-selling imported Moscato in the U.S. happens to be kosher! Experience outstanding kosher options at any price point. New varieties from wineries around the world make kosher wines a great choice for everyone. Whether for the Passover Seder or at a simple dinner with friends, these top-quality wines are sure to satisfy on all occasions.

Stoudemire Origins 2018 and Stoudemire Clarity Rosé 2020 – After establishing a line of kosher wines produced in the Upper Galilee (imported and distributed by the Royal Wine Corp.), Amare expands his offerings to California in collaboration with Herzog Wine Cellars (USA). SRP: $24.99.

Herzog Lineage Rosé 2020– This casual rosé’s flavors include pomegranate, raspberry, and tart cherry (USA). SRP 19.99

Château Roubine Rosé 2020 (Côtes de Provence, France) – The rosé wines of this top-ranking classed growth Provence Château are now imported exclusively by Royal Wine Corp. and are kosher for Passover, as well. SRP: 19.99-59.99

Herzog Generation IX Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District Napa Valley 2018 – Herzog’s new flagship wine from the prized Stags Leap district, famous for putting California on the world wine map in 1976 (USA). SRP: $249.99

Bartenura Prosecco Rosé – Top quality pink sparkling wine from Italy, great for the Passover seder and all year round for small family gatherings and celebrations (Italy). SRP: 19.99

Château Meyney Saint-Estèphe 2018 – This famed Bordeaux Estate joins Royal’s family of high-end Bordeaux Châteaux producing kosher varieties (France). SPR: $79.99

Sforno – A new line of high value, affordable quality kosher wines produced by the celebrated Riglos winery, and retailing between $10-15 (Argentina).

Can’t get enough of these stellar releases? Here are some more offerings from around the world:

Israel:

Gush Etzion, a great boutique winery in the Judean Hills returns to America with an impressive array of high-quality wines. SRP: $22.99 – $59.99
Barkan Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, a practically unmatched wine in quality and price ($19.99).

France

Champagne Barons De Rothschild, an elegant and classic champagne from this famed family of wines ($79.99)

Chateau Lascombes 2018, A Grand Cru from Margaux; SRP: $159.99

Italy

Bartenura, Rosato Cans, after the successful launch of Bartenura Moscato Cans, here comes the Rose version! SRP: $14.99/four-pack

Chile

Alfasi Reserve Carmenere, top QPR Carmenere from this booming New World region SRP: $10.99

Argentina

Flechas de Los Andes Gran Malbec, Malbec from part of the Rothchild wine estates SPR: $29.99

Kosher For Passover Vodka: LVOV Vodka distilled from beets; SRP: $20

What Makes Kosher Wine Kosher? – Ten Things to Know About Kosher Wine

“People may be surprised to learn that most kosher wines are certified for year-round use, as well as for Passover,” says Jay Buchsbaum, VP Marketing & Wine Education, Royal Wine Corp. Here are more facts to help you understand what makes wine kosher: 10 Things to Know about Kosher Wine; www.TheKFWE.com (Virtual Wine Fest, FEB 21) Passover 2021 begins sundown MARCH 27

About Royal Wine/Kedem

Founded in 1848, Royal Wine Corp. has been owned and operated in the United States by the Herzog family, whose winemaking roots go back eight generations to its origin in Czechoslovakia.

Today, Royal Wine’s portfolio of domestic and international wines range from traditional wine producing regions of France, Italy, and Spain, as well as Israel, New Zealand, Argentina and more.

The company owns and operates the Kedem Winery in upstate New York, as well as Herzog Wine Cellars in Oxnard, California, a state-of-the-art-facility featuring guided wine tours, a fully staffed modern tasting room, gift shop and catering facilities. Additionally, the winery houses the award-winning restaurant Tierra Sur, serving the finest, Mediterranean-inspired, contemporary Californian Cuisine. Follow Royal Wine Corp at: @royalwinecorp; https://www.facebook.com/RoyalWineCorp

Vintage Eve Circa 9/2018: What Wines Would You Stock if You Owned a Wine Bar?

March 9, 2021 by evebushman

Recently a pal that used to live in Santa Clarita had called me as he was opening a wine bar where he lives now in Texas. He didn’t want advice on anything other than what wine I would want if I were to visit his bar.

Since he had moved to Texas a few years ago he had been working in real estate, spent some time working in a large wine store, met more ex-pats (people that had come from California too) and ran a large wine tasting group. I didn’t offer any advice on how to open his bar as he had it covered. But I took to Facebook to ask my local pals what they would want stocked in the shelves if they owned a wine bar. They had some really great ideas! These are some of their comments:

THE WINE LIST

This is a compilation of just some of the wines my pals would stock their wine bar with:

Jonata, Potek, Scar of the Sea, True Believer, Andremily, Mail Road, Stolpman, Kimsey, Roark, The Paring, The Hilt, Spear (all Santa Barbara).

So many – Crémant, Melon d’ Bourgogne, Cru Beaujolais, Cahors, Brunello, Valtellina, Vin Santo, Madeira to name a few.

There is never enough Syrah anywhere. Still gets short shrift in the marketplace, which is a shame.

I am a sucker for Roussanne and other Rhone varietals. I love Grenache and Viognier too. Zaca Mesa and Stolpman make fabulous Roussanne.

I would like to see some Gruet Brut Rose or some blends that you can’t buy at a grocery store.

Belle Glos and Domaine Carneros Pinots, plus some Australian, Spanish and Chilean cabs.

Quintarelli, Casanova, Pine Ridge, Ridge, Tolo, Foxen…

On a wine list I look for value since they have to mark it up so much. Burgundy and Barolo would be nice but I’d go to the off the beaten path wines – Cru Beaujolais (France), Ripasso, Valpolicella, Sicilian wines. For those who like big jammy wines – Shiraz! Whites – I like to see Rose from France, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and Sancerre (France). If there is a Somm I give them a price range and let them know what I like. Never have been disappointed.

Bernardus Sauvignon Blanc, Frogs Leap Cab, Rombi Cabernet, Bookenoogen Pinot and Heller Merlot.

Under $100: Cade Cabernet Sauvignon, Campesino Syrahs and Pinot Noirs, Shafer One Point Five, Grgich Hills, Turley Zins, Prisoner, Orin Swift, Patz & Hall pinots, Flowers, Mantanzas Creek Chards, Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc, Tablas Creek and Justin.

Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Noir is hands down one of the best Pinots out there.

Lone Star Wine Cellars and Landon Winery are two wineries in McKinney Texas. I haven’t been there in a few years. But, remember the wines were pretty good. They have tasting rooms in historic downtown McKinney TX.

Also would love to have more orange wines on menus. I’m glad it’s becoming a trend.

Would love to see more wines from Paso Robles and the Santa Ynez area. Roblar in Los Olivos is one of my favorite wineries and reasonably priced in my opinion. There are so many smaller vineyards in both of these areas to explore. Tired of seeing Kendall Jackson and the like in many of the restaurants/wine bars. Pretty much I would love to taste wines that I would not be able to find at Bev Mo, not that they have bad wines, but just not interesting ones…

Le Vigne Vineyards has some wonderful wines, Justin cabs of course, Clos Solene, L’Aventure and RN Estate are some of my favorites. All from Paso.

Justin makes a great Malbec I have been enjoying! I’m typically a Cab girl myself.

For whites: Dry Rieslings (German or Alsatian), Sancerre, South African Sauvignon Blanc, and Austrian Gruner Veltliner (as opposed to Hungarian). For reds: I love the less stereotypical Italian reds such as Nero D’Avola and pretty much any red from the Piedmont region.

I’m always excited to see Barbera and GSM’s when I visit a place that I am planning to drink wine at. I also enjoy having a good port or cream sherry available if I am visiting the wine bar after dinner and I want to end the night with a dessert-like treat.

Where wines started … Italy!

I have a rather long list, but most are red wines from the Paso Robles region, Lompoc and Santa Ynez regions as well: Longoria Wines, Tercero Wines, Eberle Winery, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Amalie Vineyards in Oregon, Ascension, Bass Note Sangria, Sanford, Sculpterra, Castlerock, Cutruzzola Vineyards, Joel Gott, Cass, Hoi Polloi Winery, San Antonio Winery (official), Michael David…I love all reds, depending on winery, but my go tos are usually Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Cab, Beaujolais, and red blends. I love our California wines!

Something interesting and different. Also some local TX wines.

From me: This is ONE of my own picks, because I voted for it as our Best of Show at the Global Wine Awards, from Martellotto Winery: https://martellotto.com/products/martellotto-riserva-il-capoccia-happy-canyon-of-santa-barbara

Obsidian Wine Co. and Outdoor Adventures

March 1, 2021 by evebushman

Obsidian Wine Co, and founders, Arpad Molnar, Peter Molnar, and Michael Terrien, want to change the climate of wine and bring the experience of wine back to nature. They’re passionate about bringing wine back to its origins as a drink of the people and out of the tasting room, so to speak.

Photo courtesy Obsidian Wine.

In an effort to do just that, these avid outdoorsmen have just launched an Outdoor Adventure series. These excursions into nature will highlight the connection between the land and growing, crafting, and of course, drinking wine.

On their site you will find a handful of bookable adventures beginning in March 2021 and descriptions that you can check out here.

Upcoming Outdoor Adventures (and locations) include:

Oyster Harvest:

On March 17th, join the team out at the “Farm” in Marshall, CA at the edge of Tomales Bay where you’ll take a deep dive into their shared work together with Hog Island Oyster Company to understand shellfish and wine in their ecological context. $125 per person.

Hiking a Volcano:

On May 22nd, pack your hiking shoes and a thirst for adventure as you join the team and explore the volcanic land (surrounding Obsidian Ridge) as a professional geologist guides you through the largest flow of obsidian that you may ever witness! $125 per person.

Saffron Harvest:

On July 10th, join the team as they head over to Peace & Plenty Farm in Kelseyville, CA to witness a saffron harvest, some paella, and of course, plenty of Obsidian wine. $100 per person.

Schooner Sail the Bay:

On July 31st, mark your calendar to sail the San Francisco Bay! Beginning in Sausalito, this 80ft schooner will take you all around the bay where you’ll experience plenty of sea life and learn why keeping the water clean is vital for the wine-growing work Obsidian does. Of course, you’ll be sipping down their Rosé for the Bay (whose proceeds benefit San Francisco BayKeeper) and more! $100 per person.

Seaplane Wine Flight:

Wine, sailing, and flying- what more could you ask for? Mark your calendar for this July as you’ll have the chance to depart from Sausalito, CA on a de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver and fly over the treasured Golden Gate Bridge and breathtaking Mayacamas Mountain Range. You’ll take in the sights of Napa and Sonoma Valley and Obsidian Ridge itself- you definitely don’t want to miss this! $675 per person (minimum group size of 4).

Second Pick:

On October 16th, pack your boots and join the team in walking Poseidon Vineyard in Napa Carneros and extracting their second crop of Pinot Noir. You’ll end the day with a delicious meal and wine along Carneros Creek. If you’re lucky, you’ll be tasting the fruit of your labor in a bottle of wine about 2 years from now! $125 per person.

**PLEASE NOTE that the dates are listed are just the first dates these are offered- there will be additional dates to follow.**

HOMEGROWN STARTUP SMELLS SWEET SUCCESS…WITHOUT THE SUGAR WITH “PROSECCO ZERO”

February 25, 2021 by evebushman

MIAMI, FL – Prosecco Zero, a new line of low-sugar rosé and brut wines, officially launched with robust distribution, rapid consumption from restaurant clients already depleting hundreds of cases per month, and an exciting marketing strategy across digital, social, influencer and traditional advertising. The product is produced in Italy from one of the region’s finest wine makers, Peninsola, and boasts a proprietary methodology for creating one of the first wines with less than three grams of sugar per liter.

The company is launched by a veritable dream team of founders and partners, including CEO Ervin Machado, a renowned Sommelier Certified with the Court of Masters, beverage director and entrepreneur.

“I have always felt that deciding between great taste and a healthy lifestyle is a false choice,” said Machado. “Prosecco Zero proves that the incredible quality of Italy can be enjoyed in a way that health-conscious wine aficionados can savor …guilt free!”

Distributed by Breakthru Beverages, a leading distributor which boasts 7,000 associates and a portfolio of premier wine, spirit and beer brands totaling more than $5 billion in annual sales.

The brand’s origin story begins with Peninsola Wines in Italy—the fabled northeastern region of Friuli Venezia Giulia to be precise. From the rocky hills up 600 meters above sea level, the vineyards yield some of the finest quality grapes known to the winemaking world. Peninsola treats cultivation with the utmost attention through modern, focused viticulture and a deep knowledge of each vine.

The first two products from the nascent brand are

Prosecco, crafted from the finest quality Glera grapes which are harvested in the hills of Italy’s Friuli Venezia Giulia region, and then fermented with our own novel approach to keep sugar content extremely low. A harmonious bouquet provides delicacy and depth of this distinguished sparkling wine that is fresh on the palate and complimented by aromas of a floral wisteria acacia and white fresh fruit.
Spumante Rosé, crafted from the finest quality Merlot grapes which are harvested in the same way. This elegant fine wine evokes aromas of the forest with a unique bouquet of strawberries and red berries emerging. Intense and persistent, it is lively and silky, delighting the most refined palates.

“It’s so exciting to experience rich history colliding with modern sensibility, as we are in essence uniting a fabled Italian region with a novel scientific process that brings fresh innovation to the marketplace,” added Machado.

ABOUT PROSECCO ZERO

Prosecco Zero was born of a fruitful partnership between Ervin Machado, a revered sommelier, beverage director and entrepreneur, and Peninsola Wines, one of Italy’s most celebrated winemakers. The collective team collaborated on a unique formula, combining rich history and tradition of quality with a novel fermentation approach to keep sugar content extremely low (less than 3 grams per liter) and your enjoyment guilt-free.

My Fave Wines From 2020: The Year When Drinking Wine Became Everyone’s Favorite Pastime

February 12, 2021 by evebushman

Lots pop into our heads when we think of 2020, and of course we aren’t out of the woods yet, or even close, so far for 2021. For me it was a windfall of wines sent for review, often accompanied by a Zoom tasting led by the winemaker. I (virtually) traveled to Germany, Spain, Argentina, France, Italy and more in those meetings and via my own cellar. And before Covid shut things down I did have quick trips to Los Olivos, Paso Robles and the Lompoc Wine Ghetto. Below is a collection of some of my favorite wines from 2020. If any of this sounds good to you, go find these wines!

It turns out that I had about 50 wine tastings, if not more, in 2020. These shout-outs are from EveWine101 website articles: the 2020 Gambero Rosso Master Class, 2017 Bordeaux presented by the Union des Grand Crus, Vega Sicilia collectors dinner with Pablo Alvarez, Fontanafredda Barolo, wine from New Zealand’s Waipapa Bay, Folded Hills Winery with winemaker Angela Osborne, California Wine STARS 2020, LA County Wines (Byron Blatty, Acri Wine Company, Angeleno Wine Company and Cavaletti Vineyards), Zoom tasting with Suzanne Phifer Pavitt and their 2012 Date Night Cabernet, Camins 2 Dreams, Gary Farrell single vineyard Pinots with winemaker Theresa Heredia, revisiting Montemar, catching up with winemaker Mark Cargasacchi and Jalama wines, also visiting Ampelos and Zotovich in Lompoc, Switchback Ridge via the Grand Reserves Reward Master Card, tasting from family-owned wineries with Dr. Laura Catena, Anne Trimbach, Laure Colombo and Alessia Collauto Travaglini, great wines that stole my palate but not my wallet from Guarachi Wine Partners, reviewing DAOU’s Soul of a Lion, Tenuta Montemagno sparkling Barbera, Castello di Fonterutoli with Giovanni Mazzei, Paul Kornell Sparkling…

In SCV Elite Magazine this year I got to write about wine tasting in Paso Robles just before the shutdown. Had exceptional experiences at Thacher Winery, Tablas Creek Vineyard, Derby Wine Estates, Steinbeck Wines, Cass Wines, Eberle Winery, Oso Libre Winery, HammerSky vineyards and the Allegretto Vineyard Resort.

January started out great with my first, and last, visit and dinner at Marstons with my VP/BFF Michael Perlis, our wonderful spouses, all over lots of wine ($10 corkage!) including 2013 Audacious Grenache/Syrah/Cab blend by Law Estate, 2013 Comstock Rockpile/Sonoma County Zinfandel, 2009 Regusci Zinfandel Napa Valley…

At Wine 661: Lucas And Lewellen tasting where we sampled five of their Santa Barbara County wines, including a Rose of Pinot and a Bordeaux blend. Had a couple of wines off of the Happy Hour menu. This was not the last time I went to Wine 661 in 2020…

Now some single bottle shout outs:

Vinos Zanzonico 2017 Syrah Reserva: 100% Syrah, 13.5% alcohol, from the Valle de la Grulla area of Baja. With a regal dark purple color, I was drawn in to fantastic aromas of sweet black cherry, plum, tri-color peppercorns, layers of rich bark, milk chocolate…all very welcoming. I went in for a taste and was rewarded with a very rich and layered mouthfeel, with dark and dry blue to black fruit, grilled mushrooms, peppery spicy goodness and tannins that held my back palate at attention for a length that just would…not…quit. 99 Eve points.

2014 Old Vine Zichichi Family Vineyard Zinfandel from the Dry Creek Valley: The 14.8% alcohol didn’t translate at all to a hot wine on the palate, instead it delivered incredible substance. It started with a nose full of sweet dark plums, pipe tobacco, black licorice, toasted oak, black pepper and popcorn kernel. Going in for a taste my mouth was filled with delicious dried blueberry and blackberry, that same black pepper, tannins that held firm, and a great balance of the dark fruit and tannins to keep it lingering a long time on the palate. This was a new Zin discovery for me, will definitely be looking for it again!

Entourage by Two Papas Wine barrel fermented (1) and stainless steel (2) 2019 Chardonnay, Thompson Vineyard, Santa Barbara County: 1. Barrel: Designated by a gold wax top (the stainless has a silver wax top) I was amazed that this was a young 2019 vintage! It had lovely notes of creamy butter, pineapple, golden delicious apple and popcorn kernel that morphed into caramel apple on the palate, mild acidity, with a long, balanced and lush finish. 2. No barrel: Our stainless sibling gave off nicely scented whiffs of Meyer lemon, both cantaloupe and honeydew melon, and a little unsalted butter. When I tasted the wine I got homemade fruit cocktail, wet pebbles, low acidity and a medium finish.

2018 Kindred Rose of Pinot Noir: The color of rose gold, complete with sparkles! Then on the nose I found pink grapefruit, lemon pith, French Toast, Creme Brûlée, and Mandarin orange = all very inviting! In for a taste next, there is a very round mouthfeel, and the same citrus fruits I found on the nose – grapefruit, lemon and orange – with a medium acidity. Enjoy now, with or without food IMO!

2015 Phifer Pavitt XRoads Cabernet Sauvignon: Crushed dark cherry, wet forest floor, grilled steak and mushrooms, dark chocolate, black licorice, pipe tobacco, toasted oak, a hint of sweet cream and more all on the nose. Flavors included that same black cherry as well as blackberry, blueberry, a gamut of spices, velvety and firm drying tannins that of course require that you go back in for another sip…and another.

2012 Regusci Patriarch Proprietary Red: aroma: dark berries, dried leaves, figs, toasted oak and a bit o’ mint. Some of the same aromas in the flavors with the addition of dark chocolate.

2001 Giacomo Conterno Cascina Francia, a Nebbiolo from Barolo, Piedmont…I looked for the roses, tar, licorice and red berries (notes from a professional critic) and also found tart berries, spice and tannins after decanting for 7 hours. So interesting.

Have you tried Guentota, aka the “Soul of Cuyo”, a “100-YR-OLD-VINE PREMIUM 2016 MALBEC” from Mendoza, Argentina? It’s from Belasco De Baqueano and was awarded 91 points from James Suckling. And I was far too busy lapping it up to make any tasting notes. But find it at Newhall Press Room. (Truth be told I had a LOT of wine from Newhall Press in 2020!)

2002 Joseph Phelps Insignia, I have no notes as I was also too busy drinking to take any. A stellar wine as it’s been proven vintage after vintage.

1999 Bartolo Mascarello Barolo: The nose and taste had really changed and mellowed over the 7 hours, with aromas of dried dark fruit, grilled mushroom, balsamic, dust and oak; on the palate I got both bright and dark fruit in a very fine balance.

From my local Pulchella Winery we had: Suspect sparkling wine, 2019 Latitude Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier blend, 2017 Mercenary Zinfandel blend, 2018 Witness Grenache…among others!

A note on Los Olivos: this was a non-press trip so no notes were taken. With that in mind we loved: Barbieri and Kempe are “Boutique wines made by Master Sommelier Paolo Barbieri” along with his wife Erin Kempe = bought a case! The second, Bella Cavailli Farms and Vineyard, produces some amazing wines against a backdrop of a working horse ranch, as well as some fun distilled spirits from Dorwood Distillery. Jeff Lockwood is the winemaker and his brother Jay the head distiller. We left there with both wine and spirts to enjoy at home.

A note from Wine on the Porch: During the summer months we enjoyed Hanzell Chardonnay, Saintsbury Chardonnay, Parhelion Cellars Light Pillar Chardonnay, St Supery Virtu Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc blend, Pagter Brothers 2018 Viognier, and from Hoi Polloi I snatched up their 2018 Rose of Grenache and Double-Gold Best-Of-Class 2018 Chardonnay!

A note about spirits: Yea, I wrote a lot about spirits this year too, stay tuned for a roundup of those next!