Eve's Wine 101

Slow Wine Announces New US Editor for the Slow Wine Guide: Deborah Parker Wong!

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NEW YORK (PRWEB) – Slow Wine Editore announces some important changes and news for the next 2021 edition of its English-language edition of the Slow Wine Guide, which this year successfully celebrated its 10th anniversary. Deborah Parker Wong, DWSET, one of the Slow Wine Guide contributors, has recently been named National Editor of the US edition of the guide, thus confirming her dedication and passion to put a spotlight on those American wineries that have made it their priority to be environmentally cautious, according to the “Slow philosophy.” Deborah, Global Editor at Somm Journal and The Tasting Panel, is an opinion-leading wine industry leader, communicator, journalist and author. She also guides tastings and educational seminars, and judges several wine competitions each year.

Bottom Row: Cami Sisk MS, Chairwoman of the Judges Panel Deborah Parker Wong, Eve Bushman, Stacie Hunt.
Top Row: Danny Ronen, Paul Ellis, Cassandra Brown, David Glancy MS, Roger Bohmrich MW

With the growth of “green” oenology in the United States, the guide started to include wineries from California and Oregon in 2017 and announced lately its expansion through Washington state and the east coast, with New York, Virginia, and Maryland wineries soon to be reviewed. “I am honored to have the opportunity to lead the Slow Wine editorial team in the US,” stated Parker Wong, “and am excited to be part of the next chapter in this ever-evolving time.”

The Slow Wine community in the US is steadily growing after having expanded beyond Italian borders just a few years ago. “I’d like to thank former US editor, Jeremy Parzen, for his dedication the Slow Wine Guide and his contribution to our expansion in the US,” stated Editor-in-chief, Giancarlo Gariglio. “We are very encouraged by the positive response so far and look forward to continuing the Slow Wine mission with our American peers for years to come.”

The recent lockdown caused by the pandemic created an uncertain scenario for the Slow Wine movement, whose reviewing process is based on winery visits and blind tastings. To cope with the emergency, the editorial staff has recently announced a new digital approach consisting of virtual visits with producers to gather all the necessary information and parameters required by the guide.

“For ten years,” commented Gariglio, “we have personally visited more than 2,000 wineries, we have met their leaders, walked their vineyards and told their stories. The recent pandemic forced us to modify the way in which we work, but we are not slowing down.
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Thanks to technology and our learnings during the lockdown, we are substituting in-person visits with virtual meetings and tastings, and the result so far has been extremely successful. We can now share these digital interviews with our readers on our social media channels, a completely new offering for our followers.”

To get your own digital copy of the 2020 Slow Wine Guide, visit this link here. The Slow Wine Tour will come back in the US in 2021 with a new edition that is destined to remain in history.

About Slow Wine
The Slow Wine Guide, published by Slow Food Editore (the publishing arm of Slow Food Italy*), adopts a new approach to wine criticism and looks at a variety of factors to evaluate wineries in their entirety. They take into consideration wine quality, history and adherence to terroir, value, environmental sensitivity and ecologically sustainable methods of practice. Slow Wine was conceived to give a realistic snapshot of the current Italian wine landscape. The guide features reviews of over 500 different wineries, each one visited by Slow Food experts.
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It is available for purchase on Amazon.com as well as in select bookstores.

*Slow Food International is a global grassroots organization that envisions a world in which all people can access and enjoy food that is good for them, good for those who grow it, and good for the planet. A non-profit member-supported association, Slow Food was founded in Italy in 1989 to counter the rise of fast food and fast life and the disappearance of local food traditions, and to encourage people to be aware about the food they eat, where it comes from, how it tastes, and how our food choices affect the rest of the world.

The 10t​h ​Annual “STARS of Cabernet”

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Beverly Hills  – Were you aware that ​Cabernet Sauvignon, the most cultivated grape in the world, is the result of a marriage between the Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc grape varietals?

In celebration of Cabernet Sauvignon, “STARS of Cabernet” is the premier tasting event of the year! More than 30 of the best Cabernet producing wineries in California–and the world, will showcase their Cabernets and other wine varieties. Come and taste over 100 different wines hailing from Napa, Sonoma, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, France, Argentina and Chile.

List of wineries set to pour: Wines of South Africa, Trujillo Wines, Vineyard 29, Alpha Omega, Palazzo Wine, Frank Family Vineyards, Roy Estate, CAMi Vineyards, Bernardus Winery, Addendum, Allegretto Wines, Hawk and Horse Vineyards, axr, Hestan Vineyards, Jonata, Ladera Vineyards, Moraga Bel Air, Roca Family Vineyards, Hertelendy, The Debate, Clark-Claudon Vineyards, Michael Rolland, Duckhorn Vineyards. Merryvale Vineyards, JACK Winery, Almaviva Winery, S.R. Tonella Cellars, The Unfiltered Collection, VGS Chateau Potella & many more!

The evening will commence at 6pm with a VIP-access-only vintage tasting, followed by a PENINSULA catered dinner buffet- Acquaint yourself with the world of Cabernet while enjoying exquisite tray-passed appetizers! From 9-9:30pm, guests will enjoy a delicious dessert after-party.

A silent auction containing collectable and large format wines will benefit The TJ Martell Foundation–the music industry’s largest entity funding innovative medical research focused on finding cures for leukemia, cancer and AIDS, as well as sourcing/supporting early-stage research projects aimed at developing more effective clinical treatments for patients who otherwise cannot afford a panacea. Learn more at​ tjmartell.org​.

Tickets now on sale!
For information and ticket purchasing, please visit ​Stars of Cabernet.  STARS of Cabernet thanks its generous sponsors: Peninsula Hotel, Los Angeles Magazine, Evian, ​Robb Report, The Somm Journal and Tasting Panel Magazine.

About Peninsula Hotel:

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

About WineLA:

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

Vintage Eve 5/2015: Cabs of Distinction = Dinner at Opolo and The Quaff Report Panel

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Dinner at Opolo Vineyards after our first day learning and tasting at the Paso Robles Cab Collective Cabs of Distinction was a special treat booked for us by the public relations company marketing the event, Parker Sanpei. Starting with an after hours tasting in their tasting room – their Zin and Sangio stood out uppermost in my mind the next day – we also took a brief tour.

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Dinner at Opolo Vineyards!

The winery now houses not one but two copper stills in which chief distiller and vineyard manager Paul Quinn has been making a freaking outstanding grappa, and just that day, had completed distilling a pear brandy. Come to find that several Paso wineries are getting their license to distill alcohol from fruit and sell from their tasting rooms. I told Paul that since Opolo is SIP certified this is a natural following, to use up every scrap…for our pleasure.

We then toured the grounds. We visited a large welcoming grassy area that is used for the 8,000-strong club member parties, the rooms for overnight guests and a main house with plenty of windows for vineyard views set up for our dinner.

Starting with a lovely fruit-forward Roussanne we dined on a spinach salad with dried cranberries, apple slices, walnuts and then buttery scallops over Parmesan risotto. The owner, Rick Quinn, who had already wowed us with his smoked pork salami and smoked pork loin as appetizers, had created a meaty Goulash with grilled artichoke which I believe they served with their reserve Zinfandel. For dessert, our only store bought item, was a light cheesecake covered in berries and compote.

If you haven’t been to Opolo and like big friendly wines paired with friendly people, don’t miss them on your next trip to Paso.

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The Quaff Report Panel Discussion

On day two of our visit we were invited back to the Paso Robles Inn Ballroom for a sommelier led seminar.

While the panelists got ready Meredith May, publisher of Tasting Panel and SOMM Journal, announced that she will soon be unveiling a chef-focused cannabis magazine coming in the fall, contact info@TheCleverRoot.com if you want to learn more. This was news!

Then it was time for the panel.

Okay, right off the bat, this is my first experience watching others – as the audience wasn’t participating – taste and comment on wine. One thing I did learn came from sommelier Mike Madrigale, the moderator, who discussed helping restaurant staffs by blind tasting wines and discussing them on their merits.

Then he asked his fellow panelists to taste and only comment on any remarkable attributes found in the wines poured out in front of them.

Like a silent movie, with no music as an accompaniment, we waited for what seemed like several minutes for ANYTHING to happen. May took the opportunity to talk about the reach, 90k readers, of the Tasting Panel. She then explained that she had offered to take over the Sommelier Journal when it was about to fold, revamped it as the Somm Journal and offered it up for free to trade – and now up to 60k are reading it.

That time spent allowed our panel of Somms and wine directors to come up with some ideas of what was in their glasses. Savory, dusty, no oak…was it a Cabernet Franc or straight Cab? Across the board they had differing opinions other than what we already knew: all are Bordeaux, the only questions is new or old world?

The MS at Giada at the Cromwell Hotel, Darius Allyn said for us, as he believed that many lay people were in he audience, that they have to look at cost and how the wines offered up to pair with their cuisine.

Madrigale commented that the first wine, once revealed was a $200ish Bordeaux, wholesale would be about $125 and then about $300 on a wine list – for a wine that needs age, he wouldn’t buy this for a restaurant. He gets better deals looking for this and others at auction.

Allyn mentioned that he is given a budget by the restaurant, and he can’t speed up time on a bottle that needs age.

Both commented that Burgundy may triple in value with time, while current Bordeaux would not, and the price of Bordeaux is somewhat inflated. Which was another reason they routinely chose not to invest money in them for their wine lists.

As they worked their way through the remaining wines, we tweeted along with them, but there was more discussion about if the blind wines were new or old world and less about things I could get into, like what their customers would think, what would they pay, if it was unexpected would a customer send it back. In conclusion: if you want us to watch while you drink you better engage us. Oh well.

Story in photos: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10205508500739325.1073741916.1455706632&type=1&l=dbb4543053

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

SommCon San Diego Registration Now Open (For wine enthusiasts too!)

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SommCon® Returns To San Diego Featuring Over 40 Educational Seminars, Certification Opportunities, Tasting Events and More This November 16-19, 2016SommCon 
San Diego, CA  – This fall, SommCon® returns to San Diego bringing together professionals of all levels to discuss, develop and lead the conversation on the business of wine. Held November 16-19, 2016 at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina, SommCon’s® education is built by some of today’s most influential palates for trade professionals and serious enthusiasts who have a passion for wine and spirits and an unyielding quest for knowledge.
Boasting over 40 sessions, attendees learn and taste alongside the industry’s best and brightest through keynote sessions and educational classes complete with networking opportunities, a trade-only tasting and expo.
The conference begins on Wednesday, November 16 with professional certification opportunities including the WSET (Wine & Spirits Education Trust) Level 1 Award in Wine offered by the Neptune School of Wine, as well as Certified Cicerone®, the second level of certification through the Cicerone Certification Program.
The main conference is held Thursday, November 17 and Friday, November 18, and includes in-depth sessions led by industry thought leaders, round-table discussions, regional explorations, and The Trade Tasting at SommCon®, featuring over 100 wineries, breweries, spirit purveyors, and service industry brands. SommCon® concludes on Saturday, November 19 at the San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival’s Lexus Grand Tasting – Southern California’s most exciting weeklong epicurean experience.
Young professionals under the age of 30 who have a passion for entering a profession in the wine industry or expanding their knowledge can apply to receive free conference registration through the Young Leader’s Summit Scholarship. Applications are due by September 15, 2016 and can be found here.
Over 40 sessions will be offered at this year’s conference, including:
The Nightmare Scenario, Dealing With a Difficult Guest – Through specific technics, humor and a sense of resolution, join a panel of experienced professionals as they navigate between some of the ways they have dealt with the nightmare scenario. Presenter: Eric Entrikin, Master Sommelier, Instructor and Examiner, Court of Master Sommeliers (Thursday, November 17 and Friday, November 18)

Re-Discover Bordeaux – This session looks at the current generation of winegrowers in Bordeaux. Take a tour across the different appellations of Bordeaux, learn their stories and taste their wines. Presenters: Mary Gorman, Master of Wine; Ira Norof, CSE, CWE, Director of Education and Events, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits; Lindsay Pomeroy, BA, WSET Diploma, CWE, FWD, Owner and Chief Wine Educator, Wine Smarties (Thursday, November 17)

Digging Into Unique Terroir Presented by The SOMM Journal – This panel features representatives from unique appellations in Navarro, Spain; Alto Adige, Italy; The Veneto, Italy and Portugal. Taste two wines that best tell the story of each distinct terroir. Presenter: Eric Hemer, Master Sommelier, Master of Wine, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits (Thursday, November 17)
Hungarian Furmint: Ancient Grape, Modern Wines – Previously known for its sweet Aszú wines, the Tokaj region is now introducing dry Furmint wines to the US Market. Discover Hungary’s flagship grape variety and the versatility of the Furmint grape’s range of styles and expressions. Presenter: Tim Gaiser, Master Sommelier, Wine Educator (Thursday, November 17)
Blind Taste With The Masters – Join world-renowned Master Sommeliers, Masters of Wine and San Diego’s brightest somms as they battle it out in the ultimate blind tasting challenge through an exciting tasting experience of six wines. Panelists: Vary each day (Thursday, November 17 and Friday, November 18)
History of Craft Beer: Ancient To The Present – Learn how beer influenced the start of human civilization, gave power to religion, and was at the forefront of the industrial revolution. Discuss beer post prohibition and the rise of craft beer, and hear from the experts on what the future holds. Moderator: Maurice DiMarino, Level Two Masters Guild of Sommeliers, Wine Director, Island Prime. Presenters: George Thornton, Co-Founder, Home Brewing Co.; Greg Koch, CEO and Co-Founder, Stone Brewing; Mark Weslar, Vice President of Marketing, Karl Strauss Brewing Company; Jennifer Glanville, Brewer and Director of Brewery Programs, Samuel Adams, and Brandon Hernandez, Societie Brewery (Thursday, November 17)
The Role of Viticulture in the Evolution of Napa Valley Wines – There has been much said about the roles of critics and winemakers in the changes in Napa Valley Wines over the last four decades. As truly great wines reflect the origins of the vineyard, the evolution of Napa Valley winemaking can also be understood by examining changes in vineyard practices. Explore Napa Valley wines through the lens of viticulture with an engaging panel and tasting Presenter: Jon Ruel, Chief Executive Officer, Trefethen Family Vineyards (Thursday, November 17)
Extraordinary Tuscan Experience – Join Castello Banfi third generation Family Proprietor, Cristina Mariana-May and Master Sommelier, Fred Dame as they unveil the release of the 2010 Brunello Riservas from Castello Banfi and taste through the next generation of Banfi Wines. Presenters: Fred Dame, Master Sommelier, American Wine & Spirits, Cristina Mariani-May, Family Proprietor, Castello Banfi (Friday, November 18)

Diversity of Pinot Noir Within the Russian River Valley – This guided tasting examines the different nuances of the microclimates and soils that result in the diverse Russian River Valley Pinot Noir terroir. Presenters: Brad Alper, Winegrower, Square Peg; Guy Davis, Founder, Farmer, Winemaker, Davis Family; Bryan Kvamme, Winemaker, Martinelli; Boyd Morrison, Winemaker, MacMurray Estate Vineyards, and Jim Pratt, Winegrower, MacPhail  (Friday, November 18)

Alsace Rocks: Exploring The Region’s Grand Crus – This session explores Alsace’s varied and unique terroir and its impact on the region’s famous expressive wines. With 13 distinct soil types in Alsace, the region has the most varied terroir in all of France. Presenter: Josh Nadal, Beverage Director, NoHo Hospitality Group (Friday, November 17)
SommCon® is only open to 300 registrants, and for those in attendance, there are several ways to participate, with conference packages and single day passes available.
  • Full Conference Package (November 17- 18) – Full conference access with choice of seminars, Continental Breakfast and Roundtable Discussions, Keynote Speaker and Winemaker Lunch, Hosted Tastings, Winemaker Lunch, The Trade Tasting at SommCon®, $365 before September 16
  • Single Day Conference Registration Package (November 17) – One day conference access with choice of seminars, Continental Breakfast and Roundtable Discussions, Keynote Speaker and Winemaker Lunch, Hosted Tastings, $195 before September 16
  • Single Day Conference Registration Package (November 18) – One day conference access with choice of seminars, Winemaker Lunch, Hosted Tastings, The Trade Tasting at SommCon®, $195 before September 16
  • The Trade Tasting At SommCon (November 18) – Free for qualified members of the trade until September 1
  • Lexus Grand Tasting (November 19) – Trade tickets are $75 each, to qualify fill out the application here
Sponsors and educational partners to date include: The SOMM Journal, The Tasting Panel Magazine, Napa Valley Vintners, Russian River Valley Winegrowers, Wines of Alsace, Bourgogne Wine Board, Furmint USA, Les Vins De Médoc, Sta. Rita Hills Wine Alliance, Vins de Bordeaux, Society of Wine Educators, Castello Banfi, Rias Baixas Wines, Wines of Germany, Côtes de Bordeaux, Left Coast Cellars, Wine Spectator, Somm’s List, and Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits.
SommCon® panelists, presenters and speakers include: Jesse Becker, Master Sommelier, Market Specialist, Craft + Estate; Amy Christine, Master of Wine, Black Sheep Finds Winery; Fred Dame, Master Sommelier, American Wine & Spirits; Erik Entrikin, Master Sommelier; David Glancy, Master Sommelier, San Francisco Wine School; Mary Gorman-McAdams, Master of Wine, Bordeaux Wine Council; Tim Gaiser, Master Sommelier; Eric Hemer, Master of Wine, Master Sommelier, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits; Geoff Labitzke, Master of Wine, Director of Sales & Marketing, Kistler; Joseph Spellman, Master Sommelier, JUSTIN Vineyards and Winery; Peter Koff, CWM, MS, President, Fairest Cape Beverage Company; Brad Alper, Winegrower, Square Peg; Bryan Babcock, Winemaker, Babcock Vineyards; Geralyn Brostrom, Italian Wine Central, Certified Wine Educator, Italian Wine Professional; Ken Brown, Owner, Ken Brown Wines; Randy Caparoso, Editor-At-Large, The SOMM Journal, Contributing Editor, The Tasting Panel; Jim Clarke, Marketing Manager, Wines of South Africa, USA; Guy Davis, Founder, Farmer, Winemaker, Davis Family; Maurice DiMarino, Level Two Masters Guild of Sommeliers, Wine Director, Island Prime; Wayne Donaldson, Head of Production, The Calling; Maureen Downey, DWS, CEW, Columnist, Wine-Searcher.com; Eric Flanagan, Founder, Flanagan Winery; Damon Goldstein, Truly Fine Wines; Randall Grahm, Owner, Bonny Doon Vineyard; David Hejl, Proprietor, Winemaker, Domaine Della Winery; Kathy Joseph, Proprietor, Winemaker, Grape Herder, Head Fiddle, Fiddlehead Cellars; Greg Koch, CEO and Co-Founder, Stone Brewing; Bryan Kvamme, Winemaker, Martinelli; Cristina Mariana-May, Family Proprietor, Castello Banfi; Dewey Markham Jr., DMj Wineworks; Meridith May, Publisher/Editorial Director, The Tasting Panel, The SOMM Journal, The Clever Root; Luke McCollom, General Manager, Viticulturist and Founding Winemaker, Left Coast Cellars; Boyd Morrison, Winemaker MacMurray Estate Vineyards; Josh Nadel, Beverage Director, NoHo Hospitality Group; Frank Ostini, Owner, Chef Winemaker, Hitching Post II; Lindsay Pomeroy, BA, WSET Diploma, CWE, FWD, Owner and Chief Wine Educator, Wine Smarties; Jim Pratt, Winegrower, MacPhail; Dlynn Proctor, Penfolds Ambassador, Americas and Canada; David Ramey, Founder, Winemaker, Ramey Cellars; John Rielly, Fine Wine Development, Manager-West, Terlato Wines International; Jon Ruel, Chief Executive Officer; Trefethen Family Vineyards; Richard Sanford, Owner, Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards; George Thornton, Co-Founder, The Homebrewer; Raj Vaidya, Head Sommelier, DANIEL; Rachel Voorhee, Director of Wine Education, Wine Director, Rodney Strong Vineyards; Mark Weslar, Vice President of Marketing, Karl Strauss Brewing Company; Jennifer Glanville, Brewer and Director of Brewery Programs, Samuel Adams.
SommCon® takes place November 16-19, 2016 at Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina in San Diego, California.  For more information or to purchase conference registration, visit:  SommConUSA.com and follow SommCon®on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Discounted accommodations are available at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina for SommCon attendees, make reservations here.
ABOUT SOMMCON®: SommCon® is a leading conference and exposition for education and training of beverage professionals and serious enthusiasts. Held November 16 – 19, 2016, in San Diego, CA, the four-day conference brings together industry professionals of all levels to discuss, develop, and lead the conversation on the business of wine. SommCon’s ® education is built by industry thought leaders for trade professionals and serious enthusiasts who have a passion for wine and spirits and an unyielding quest for knowledge. Attendees learn and taste their way through keynote sessions and educational classes, complete with a trade-only tasting and expo. SommCon® is produced by Fast Forward Event Productions, an event management agency specializing in productions for the wine, beer and spirits industry, fastforwardevents.com

The 2016 International Chardonnay Symposium Announces Medal Winners

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Awards were handed out in four categories and The SOMM Journal named its top sommelier

Pismo Beach, CA – The International Chardonnay Symposium, (ICS), TheChardonnaySymposium.com, the world’s foremost gathering of premium Chardonnay producers, sommeliers, trade and enthusiasts, announced the official medal winners of the 2016 International Chardonnay Symposium Wine Competition.

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The ICS 2016 and The SOMM Journal selected leading sommeliers to judge the extensive double-blind tasting of Chardonnay from around the globe. The medal winners were announced at the Symposium’s Annual La Paulée Dinner and Vintner Awards Ceremony, held this year at Greengate Ranch & Vineyard in the heart of the Edna Valley AVA in mid-May.

The 2016 ICS was held in the seaside resort towns of Pismo Beach, ClassicCalifornia.com; Avila Beach, VisitAvilaBeach.com; and the Edna Valley, an area of the Highway 1 Discovery Route in San Luis Obispo County, Highway1DiscoveryRoute.com.

The 2016 International Chardonnay Symposium Wine Competition “Best” category winners are:

v  Best of Show

Alpha Omega 2013 Reserve (Napa Valley)

Platinum medal

v  Best Unoaked Chardonnay

Simonnet-Febvre 2014 Chablis Premier Cru “Vaillons” (Chablis)

Double Gold medal

v  Best Oaked Chardonnay

Grgich Hills Estate 2013 Miljenko’s Selection (Carneros)

Double Gold medal

v  SOMM Journal’s Choice

Arínzano 2010 Gran Vino White (Arínzano, Vino de Pago, Spain)

Gold medal

The Best of Show award was especially meaningful for vintner Robin Baggett, the proprietor of Alpha Omega in Napa Valley and Tolosa Winery in San Luis Obispo. Baggett said, “Having graduated from Cal Poly and raised by family in San Luis Obispo, then starting my wine career in Edna Valley at Tolosa Winery, it’s an honor to return and receive such a prestigious award for our Napa Valley efforts.”

The SOMM Journal and the ICS named Alicia Ajolo of taste wine-beer-kitchen in Long Beach, California, as the Symposium’s 2016 Top Sommelier. Ajolo was one of the judges at the day-long wine competition where she determined the origin of the most of wines during a double-blind tasting.

 

Platinum Medal Winners

Alpha Omega 2013 Reserve (Napa Valley)

Hearst Ranch Winery 2014 Proprietor’s Reserve (Central Coast)

RUSACK Vineyards 2014 Santa Maria Valley Reserve (Santa Maria Valley)

 

Double Gold Medal Winners

ADELAIDA 2014 Estate, (Adelaida District)

Bernardus 2013 Sierra Mar (Santa Lucia Highlands)

Clos Pepe 2013 Estate Barrel Fermented (Sta. Rita Hills)

CRU Wine Co. 2014 Montage (Monterey)

El Pistolero 2015 “Cold Steel” (Santa Lucia Highlands)

Grgich Hills Estate 2013 Miljenko’s Selection (Carneros)

Simonnet-Febvre 2014 Chablis Premier Cru “Vaillons” (Chablis)

Wente Vineyards 2014 The Nth Degree (Livermore Valley)

Windemere 2014 MacGregor Vineyard (Central Coast)

 

Gold Medal Winners

Alpha Omega 2013 Chardonnay (Napa Valley)

Arínzano 2010 Gran Vino White (Arínzano, Vino de Pago, Spain)

Baileyana 2014 Firepeak (Edna Valley)

Chartron et Trébuchet 2012 Meursault (Meursault)

Cotiere 2014 Talley Rincon (Arroyo Grande Valley)

DeLoach Vineyard 2013 Estate (Russian River)

Edna Valley Vineyard 2014 (Central Coast)

Edna Valley Vineyard 2014 Winemaker Series Heritage (Santa Lucia Highlands)

Landmark Vineyards 2014 Overlook (Sonoma County)

Louis Latour 2010 Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru (Corton-Charlemagne)

Nottingham Cellars 2014 1846 by Nottingham Cellars (Arroyo Seco)

Sextant Wines 2014 Central Coast (Central Coast)

Sinor-LaVallee 2014 White Label-Bassi Vineyard (Santa Lucia Highlands)

St. Francis Winery 2014 Behler (Sonoma Valley)

Tolosa Winery 2014 569 (Central Coast)

Tolosa Winery 2014 Dijon (Central Coast)

 

Silver Medal Winners

ADELAIDA 2014 HMR Vineyard (Adelaida District)

Buena Vista Winery 2013 Private Reserve (Sonoma County)

Capensis 2013 (Western Cape, South Africa)

Chartron et Trébuchet 2013 Rully Premier Cru Les Grésigny (Rully)

Clos Pepe 2013 Estate (Sta. Rita Hills)

CRU Wine Co. 2014 Unoaked (Arroyo Seco)

Domaine L’Arjolle 2015 Côtes de Thongue (Côtes de Thongue)

Harmony Cellars 2014 (Central Coast)

Hearst Ranch Winery 2014 Glacier Ridge (Santa Lucia Highlands)

Jean-Charles Boisset 2013 JCB #81 (Sonoma Coast)

Presqu’ile, 2013 Presqu’ile Vineyard (Santa Maria Valley)

Talley Vineyards 2014 Estate (Arroyo Grande Valley)

Trefethen 2014 (Oak Knoll District)

True Myth 2014 Paragon Estate (Edna Valley)

 

About The International Chardonnay Symposium

The International Chardonnay Symposium attracts winemakers, sommeliers, media, trade, wine enthusiasts and tastemakers from across the globe to enjoy and study the world’s favorite grape. When the discussion ends, there’s plenty of time for exploring nearby Central Coast wineries, as well as the hosting seaside resort towns of Pismo Beach and Avila Beach that offer downtown winetasting rooms, pristine beaches, surfing and kayaking, hiking and biking trails, farm-to-table and seaport-inspired cuisine, boutique shopping, and more. The International Chardonnay Symposium is sponsored by Pismo Beach Conference & Visitors Bureau, Avila Beach Tourism Alliance, California Highway 1 Discovery Route, Visit San Luis Obispo County, The Tasting Panel Magazine, The SOMM Journal, Wine Enthusiast Magazine, 805 Living, Touring & Tasting, Greengate Ranch & Vineyard, Riedel, Farm Credit West, San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, and Yelp.

About Pismo Beach, Avila Beach, & Highway 1 Discovery Route of SLO County

San Luis Obispo County’s Pismo Beach, Avila Beach and the Highway 1 Discovery Route destination towns are located on California’s famous Central Coast, halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. With miles of pristine Pacific coastline, enjoy great weather, a plethora of outdoor activities, rich wild life and nature preserves, downtown wine tasting rooms, and the neighboring world class wine producing regions of the Edna Valley, Arroyo Grande Valley, Santa Maria Valley and Paso Robles. For information on the wide variety of lodging choices, accommodating every budget and lifestyle, visit ClassicCalifornia.com, VisitAvilaBeach.com, and Highway1DiscoveryRoute.com.

2016 International Chardonnay Symposium Celebrates the World’s Favorite Grape

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California’s Central Coast hosts a global celebration of Chardonnay

December 9, 2015 (Pismo Beach, CA) –The world’s foremost gathering of Chardonnay producers, The International Chardonnay Symposium (TheChardonnaySymposium.com), will feature a line-up of top global Chardonnay winemakers, sommeliers, media, trade, foodies and wine enthusiasts during this year’s events, May 12-14, 2016. The Symposium will take place in the classic California beach towns of Pismo Beach and Avila Beach with a grand tasting at the picturesque Greengate Ranch & Vineyard (GreengateWeddings.com) in Edna Valley wine country.

1496044_10152146587835129_1371476224_oA sampling of panel discussions include:

  • Wente Clone Comparative Tasting
  • What’s Oak Got to Do With It?
  • Pairing Chardonnay With Artisanal Cheese
  • Digging In: An International Look at the Effects of Terroir

Additional events include a Vintners’ Wine Tech Symposium, Sommelier Chardonnay Challenge, Grand Tasting, La Paulée Dinner and Awards Ceremony and new to this year’s event, the Pét-Nat, Sparkling Wine and Oysters Gala. Early-bird tickets to the Saturday Grand Tasting are available and can be purchased by visiting TheChardonnaySymposium.com.

Complimentary tickets for qualified media to the three-day event can be requested by emailing TCS@ParkerSanpei.com.

About The International Chardonnay Symposium

The International Chardonnay Symposium attracts winemakers, sommeliers, media, trade, foodies, wine enthusiasts and tastemakers from across the globe to enjoy and study the world’s favorite grape. When the discussion ends, there’s plenty of time for exploring nearby Central Coast wineries as well as the hosting seaside resort towns of Pismo Beach and Avila Beach that offer downtown winetasting rooms, pristine beaches, surfing and kayaking, hiking and biking trails, farm-to-table and seaport-inspired cuisine, boutique shopping, and more. The International Chardonnay Symposium is sponsored by The Tasting Panel Magazine, The SOMM Journal, Pismo Beach Conference & Visitors Bureau, Avila Beach Tourism Alliance, and the California Highway 1 Discovery Route. For more information, visit TheChardonnaySymposium.com.

About Pismo Beach, Avila Beach, & Highway 1 Discovery Route of SLO County

San Luis Obispo County’s Pismo Beach, Avila Beach and the Highway 1 Discovery Route destination towns are located on California’s famous Central Coast, halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. With miles of pristine Pacific coastline, enjoy great weather, a plethora of outdoor activities, rich wild life and nature preserves, downtown wine tasting rooms, and the neighboring world class wine producing regions of the Edna Valley, Avila Valley, Arroyo Grande Valley, Santa Maria Valley and Paso Robles. For information on the wide variety of lodging choices, accommodating every budget and lifestyle, visit Classiccalifornia.com, VisitAvilaBeach.com and Highway1DiscoveryRoute.com.

 

Women of the Vine Global Symposium Announces Keynote Speakers, Agenda and Sponsors

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December 2015 (New York, NY) – The Women of the Vine Alliance recently published the agenda for the second annual Women of the Vine Global Symposium on its website, WomenOfTheVine.com. The benchmark event is to be held April 4-6, 2016 at the Meritage Resort & Spa, Napa, and will include a recent addition to the lineup, keynote speaker Lynda Spillane.

10455298_968658573159356_4323018955210836217_nAn accomplished psychologist, speechwriter and coach, Lynda Spillane is considered the best in the world at transforming heads of state, presidents, CEOs and executives into high-performing public speakers and communicators, and will present an address at the Women of the Vine Global Symposium entitled, “Brilliant Women, Excellent Speakers.” Other keynote speakers include Vice President of Marketing, E&J Gallo Winery, Stephanie Gallo, speaking on the subject of “Cultivating Boldness for Personal Growth and Professional Gain,” as well as President & CEO, House of Krug, Maggie Henriquez, and Founder, South Africa’s House of Mandela Wines, Dr. Maki Mandela.

Moderators scheduled for panels include Chief Wine Critic for the New York Times, Eric Asimov; Founder, Sokol Blosser Vineyards, Susan Sokol Blosser; Senior Director of Human Resources for Domestic Sales and Affiliated Distributors, E. & J. Gallo Winery, Alison Jerden; Executive Editor, Wine Enthusiast Magazine, Susan Kostrzewa; Wine Educator, Author, Consultant and Speaker, Leslie Sbrocco; M.S., CWE, Corporate National Accounts On-Premise Glazer’s Family of Companies, Guy Noel Stout; Founder and Motivator in Chief, Force Brands (BevForce, FoodForce), Josh Wand; and Executive Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Vintage Wine Estates, Terry Wheatley.

The Symposium theme for 2016, “Step Up, Step Out,” is supported by seminars including:

  • “Finding the Time: Balancing Work, Relationships, and Life”
  • “Speak Up: Unlock Your Confidence to Stand Out”
  • “Negotiating with Giants”
  • “Family Ties: Taking the Reins”
  • “Navigating the Career Jungle”
  • “Spirited Women: Taking the Lead”
  •  “Unsung Heroines”

Panelists for the second annual Women of the Vine Global Symposium include: Marilisa Allegrini, Allegrini Estates; Mary Barranco, Southern Wine & Spirits; Karena Breslin, Constellation Brands; Laure Colombo, Vins Jean-Luc Colombo; Jennifer DePaola, Young’s Market Company; Barb Egenhofer, Constellation Brands; Rachael Ellas, Ste. Michelle Wine Estates; Kelly Gamble, Ste. Michelle Wine Estates; Violet Grgich, Grgich Hills Estate; Sandra LeDrew, Treasury Wine Estates; Lorraine Luke, Republic National Distributing Co.; Helen Mackey, Ruth’s Chris Steak House; Cristina Mariani-May, Banfi; Simeen Mohsen, Vintages by Harlequin; Roberta Morrell, Morrell & Co.; Donna Morris, Winderlea Vineyard, OR; Anita Cook-Motard, Glazer’s; Maeve Pesquera, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar; Jayne Portnoy, Napa Technology; Rachel Seder, Southern Wine & Spirits; Clarice Turner, Starbucks; and Carolyn Wente, Wente Vineyards.

The symposium also offers multiple networking opportunities with the alcohol beverage industry’s top professionals and influencers, including executive management, human resource professionals, directors of sales and marketing, on- and off-premise wine and spirits buyers, distributors, wine educators, winemakers, sommeliers, mixologists, importers/exporters, winery owners, public relations, media, viticulturists, hospitality operations, and more.

To view the full agenda, visit WomenOfTheVine.com.

“We couldn’t ask for a more stellar lineup of speakers, moderators, and panelists this year,” said Founder and President of Women of the Vine, Deborah Brenner. “Each person involved is participating out of passion for advancing the careers of women in the alcohol beverage industry. Attendees can expect to take away plenty of inspiration, tools, techniques and new friendships.”

As of today, Sponsors so far for the Women of the Vine Global Symposium include Founding Sponsor, Southern Wine & Spirits of America, Inc.; Diamond Sponsors: CF Napa Brand Design, Constellation Brands, E. &J. Gallo Winery, Glazer’s, Moët Hennessy USA, Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, The SOMM Journal, The Tasting Panel Magazine; Platinum Sponsors: Palm Bay International, Treasury Wine Estates, Vintages by Harlequin, Vintage Wine Estates; Gold Sponsors: Bacardi, Banfi, Charmer Sunbelt Group, Fetzer, Global Wine Cellars, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Pernod Ricard USA, Republic National Distributing Company, Rodney Strong Vineyards, Trinchero Family Estates, Wente Vineyards, WineShop At Home, Young’s Market Company, among others.

For sponsorship inquiries, please contact Deborah Brenner at info@womenofthevine.com, or call 888-750-1863.

About The Women of the Vine Alliance
The Women of the Vine Alliance is a membership-based alliance that empowers and equips women worldwide to advance their careers in the alcohol beverage industry, fostering gender diversity and talent development across the industry at large. Guided by an advisory board of top international executives in the alcohol beverage industry, Women of the Vine offers extensive education, advocacy, training, mentorship, networking and steadfast support for women at every position in the field, particularly through the annual Women of the Vine Global Symposium, April 4-6, 2016 in Napa, California. Women of the Vine: Raising the Bar. For more information, please visit WomenOfTheVine.com or call 888.750.1863.

 

NEW MAGAZINE: “THE CLEVER ROOT” DEBUTS FROM PUBLISHERS OF THE TASTING PANEL AND THE SOMM JOURNAL

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New quarterly magazine debuting fall 2015 features everything good that grows

LOS ANGELES -The publishers of The Tasting Panel magazine and The SOMM Journal have announced the fall 2015 launch of The Clever Root, a new quarterly magazine about everything good that grows. A chef-driven, farm-to-table and ingredient-focused publication, The Clever Root lends an informed and educated voice to the world of growables, including cannabis.

clever_root_logo (1)Each issue will feature columns from the editorial team, including Managing Editor Karen Moneymaker and Vice President of Editorial Rachel Burkons, who will produce in-depth articles on subjects from farm to fruit, leaf to herb – and the working tastemakers who buy, forage, prepare and grow these ingredients for the dishes served at the country’s top restaurants.

“The time is now to take a deep dive into the world of growables and provide expert knowledge to a motivated audience of chefs, buyers and restaurant industry trade. We’ll explore the organic lifestyle like never before, and shed light on a thriving cannabis industry,” says Meridith May, Publisher and Editorial Director of The Clever Root.

Subscriptions are $10 per issue or $36 for an annual subscription and will be targeted to chefs, restaurateurs, directors of food and beverage, grocery food buyers, and wine and spirits stores and high-end consumers. The Clever Root can also be found at gourmet shops, dispensaries, newsstands, wine and food events, cannabis conferences, and culinary and wine schools.

“We’re proud to announce that our inaugural issue will feature a cover story on Chef Daniel Patterson, a renowned American chef, restaurateur and food writer. Notable chefs and other industry personalities will grace the cover of each quarterly issue, spotlighting the cultivators of tomorrow, behind-the-scenes look at chefs’ gardens, biodynamic cooking and winemaking, and cannabis education,” adds May.

Recurring columns include:

  • Napa Valley Vintners: Recurring column on sustainability and other initiatives in grape growing

  • The Ganjier: The Clever Root’s connection with cannabis science and growing, from clones to terroir to greenhouses

  • Dig This: Front-of-the-book three-page spotlight; focus on “Asparagus for All Seasons” with columnist Jeff Cox

 

Says Allison Edrington, Editor-in-chief of TheGanjier.com and Cannabis Editor for The Clever Root: “On behalf of The Ganjier and Emerald Triangle farmers, we’re thrilled to partner with The Clever Root team in providing insights for our colleagues and the public on the evolving cannabis industry. This is an incredible opportunity to serve as a mainstream voice about sustainable cannabis growing and legal, adult recreational enjoyment.”

Special features in the inaugural Fall issue to include:

  • Pairing Chablis with Oysters: The Clever Root visits chefs across the country to find some winning combinations

  • The Garden Farmer: An interview with biodynamic guru and horticulturist Jeff Dawson

  • The Who’s Who of Humboldt County: The growers and the game-changers in the Emerald Triangle, including interviews with the government officials on the side of legalization

 

Chef highlights:

  • On The Cover: California Chef Daniel Patterson of San Francisco’s Coi, Haven, Alta and Aster

  • Duskie Estes of ZaZu in Sebastopol

  • Spotlight on NY Chefs

  • Spotlight on Sacramento Chefs

  • Unique Trends Report from Washington State Chefs

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For subscriptions, email info@TheCleverRoot.com. The digital version of The Clever Root plus original content will be found at TheCleverRoot.com.

For interviews, images or additional information, please contact Sienna Spencer-Markles: sienna@mccuecommunications.com | 213-985-1011

About The Clever Root:

From the veteran publishers of Tasting Panel Magazine and SOMM Journal comes The Clever Root, a new quarterly magazine serving up cutting-edge culture for the curious mind and palate. Through informative stories, enticing recipes, gorgeous photography and expert perspectives, The Clever Root offers insight and inspiration about everything good that grows, from produce to livestock to wine and beyond—including a smart, educational look at the growing cannabis industry.  TheCleverRoot.com | Facebook.com/TheCleverRoot  | @TheCleverRoot

International Chardonnay Symposium Launches With A Bang

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Star-studded global wine event attracts the crème de la crème of the industry to Pismo Beach and Avila Beach

Pismo Beach, Calif –  With nearly 1,000 attendees and over 100 participants, the International Chardonnay Symposium descended on the beachfront communities of Pismo Beach and Avila Beach with seminars, dinners, and tastings that attracted the wine industry’s foremost winemakers, sommeliers, and journalists, as well as many devoted consumers.

zo86ft“The Chardonnay Symposium was an amazing opportunity to experience the tremendous quality we are seeing in Chardonnay today both domestically and internationally,” said Winemaker Michael McNeill of Hanzell Vineyards in Sonoma. “After tasting through the wines over the course of the event, I saw that California Chardonnay is not what it was even five years ago. I saw an energy and vibrancy throughout the wines here that was uncommon a short time ago.”

Attendees to the Symposium were treated to panels moderated by top industry experts, including Master Sommelier Fred Dame, Master Sommelier Brian McClintic, Master Sommelier Bob Bath, cheese educator and author Laura Werlin, and VP of Sales and Marketing for The Thornhill Companies Nicholas Miller; covering such topics as “To Oak Or Not To Oak?,” pairing food with Chardonnay, and the fashion, evolution and diversity of the world’s favorite white wine grape. Panel discussions also featured the culinary talents of Chef Christopher Manning of Thomas Hill Organics in Paso Robles and Chef Vatche Moukhtarian of the Cracked Pepper Bistro in Fresno, California.

Two grand tastings featured hundreds of Chardonnays in multiple styles, from dozens of appellations from across the globe, in addition to two separate wine auctions benefitting Cal Poly University’s Wine & Viticulture and Recreation, Parks & Tourism Administration departments. The La Paulée dinner at Lido of Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa included vintners’ favorite library wines and cuisine by Chef Jacob Moss and Guest Chef Ari Kolender of Leon’s Oyster Shop and Saint Alban in South Carolina. And the “Taste Like A Somm” dinner at The Gardens of Avila at Sycamore Mineral Springs showcased the talents of Chef Gregg Wangard and Chef Michael Avila, whose cuisine was paired with several Chardonnays for a double-blind tasting.

The Symposium also focused on professional development, offering an all-day Vintners’ Tech Symposium in which 20 vintners from across California shared best practices, led by veteran Winemaker Larry Brooks of Tolosa Winery in Edna Valley; as well as The SOMM Journal’s “Sommelier Challenge” in which a dozen top sommeliers blind-tasted 32 Chardonnay wines and weighed-in with their favorites. The winners of the “Sommelier Challenge” were announced at the La Paulée Dinner as such:

  • Best Classic Style Chardonnay

Talley Vineyards 2013 Chardonnay, Arroyo Grande Estate

  • Best No-Oak Chardonnay

Presqu’ile 2013 Chardonnay, Santa Maria Valley

  • Best Old World-Style Chardonnay

Cotière 2013 Murmur Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley

  • Best New World-Style Chardonnay

Capensis 2013, Western Cape, South Africa

  • Best of Show

Mattina Fiore 2012 Murmur Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley

  • Somm’s Choice

Dalrymple 2012 “Cave Block,” Piper’s River, Tasmania

Sponsors of the 2015 International Chardonnay Symposium include: Avila Beach Tourism Alliance, Pismo Beach Conference & Visitors Bureau, SLO County Tourism Business Improvement District, The SOMM Journal, The Tasting Panel Magazine, Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, Biddle Ranch Vineyard, Farm Credit West, Grape Encounters, The Krush 92.5, Riedel, Sustainability In Practice (SIP), TricorBraun, and Vivant Fine Cheese.

The 2016 International Chardonnay Symposium will be hosted in the beachfront communities of Pismo Beach and Avila Beach on May 12-14, 2016. For more information and to be added to the mailing list please email us at TCS@ParkerSanpei.com.

About The International Chardonnay Symposium

The International Chardonnay Symposium attracts winemakers, sommeliers, media, trade, foodies, wine enthusiasts and tastemakers from across the globe to enjoy and study the world’s favorite grape. When the discussion ends, there’s plenty of time for exploring nearby Central Coast wineries as well as the hosting seaside resort towns of Pismo Beach and Avila Beach that offer downtown winetasting rooms, pristine beaches, surfing and kayaking, hiking and biking trails, farm-to-table and seaport-inspired cuisine, boutique shopping, and more. The International Chardonnay Symposium is sponsored by The Tasting Panel Magazine, The SOMM Journal, Pismo Beach Conference & Visitors Bureau, Avila Beach Tourism Alliance, and the California Highway 1 Discovery Route. For more information, visit thechardonnaysymposium.com.

About Pismo Beach, Avila Beach, & Highway 1 Discovery Route of SLO County

San Luis Obispo County’s Pismo Beach, Avila Beach and ten Highway 1 Discovery Route destination towns are located on California’s famous Central Coast, halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles.  With miles of pristine Pacific coastline, enjoy great weather, a plethora of outdoor activities, rich wild life and nature preserves, downtown wine tasting rooms, and the neighboring world class wine producing regions of San Luis Obispo Wine Country, Santa Maria Valley and Paso Robles. For information on the wide variety of lodging choices, accommodating every budget and lifestyle, visit Classiccalifornia.com; VisitAvilaBeach.com and Highway1discoveryroute.com.

 

CABs of Distinction: A Winner with Sommeliers, Media and Trade

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Annual event substantiates superior qualities of Paso Robles AVA in producing Bordeaux varietal wines

Paso Robles, Calif – At its recent CABs of Distinction annual event, the Paso Robles CAB (Cabernet and Bordeaux) Collective (PRCC) proved, once again, that Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon and red Bordeaux-varietal wines compete with those from among the top growing regions across the globe.

“Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignons have a distinct expression in the canon of Cabernet Sauvignons grown throughout the world,” said Head Sommelier of Bar Boulud, Mike Madrigale, who moderated a panel based on the popular SOMM Journal column, “The Quaff Report.” “The velvety texture, richness and freshness are what set it apart from other Cabs.”

paso cab collectiveThe 2014 En Primeur barrel tastings showcased how developments in viticulture practices, such as soil moisture probing, shoot thinning, and fruit-drop lead to exemplary wines that demonstrate the potential for Paso Robles to produce superior-quality Cabernets and red Bordeaux varietal wines. En Primeur is a great way for vintners to showcase the quality of the most recent harvest while the media and trade get an early assessment on the quality of the vintage.

The Paso Robles’ phenolic phenomenon panel discussion led by Scott McLeod of Wine Xray highlighted the use of phenolic measurements in wine as a means to objectively measure the quality of the wine and terroir.

Looking more specifically at color (bound anthocyanins) and tannins, phenolics can give an idea of the intensity of the vintage as well as the structure it has for aging. By looking at the numbers, one can observe that a vast majority of PRCC wines have color in excess of 200 parts per million and in some cases in excess of 300 parts per million. These numbers can rival the best regions of the world. Tannins range from the low 1,000s to in some cases low 2,000s, showing great structure across the board. The phenolic measurements analyzed by Wine Xray of the 2013 vintage undoubtedly show that Paso Robles has a terroir that rivals the best terroirs in the world in producing Bordeaux varieties.

The SOMM Journal brought “The Quaff Report,” to CABs of Distinction for a riveting blind tasting of Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon alongside that of Bordeaux and Napa. Moderated by Mike Madrigale, the panel included sommeliers Jared Hooper of Faith & Flower, Darius Allyn, MS, of Giada at the Cromwell Hotel, Augustus Miller of Charlie Palmer, Paul Coker of Michael Mina’s Stonehill Tavern at the St Regis, Terence Leavey of Spago Beverly Hills, and Naureen Zaim of Smoke.Oil.Salt. Wines included:

  • 2010 JUSTIN Isosceles Reserve, Paso Robles, $100
  • 2010 DAOU Soul of the Lion, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, $100
  • 2010 Joseph Phelps Insignia, Napa, $170
  • 2010 Dominus Estate, Napa, $250
  • 2010 Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou, Saint Julien/Bordeaux, $225
  • 2010 Chateau Leoville Barton, Saint Julien/Bordeaux, $155

With all the intrigue, conjecture, and fun of a whodunit game, the blind panel recognized the two Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignons in the lineup by their “warmth,” “tannic structure,” and freshness.

The 2016 CABs of Distinction media, trade and consumer events are scheduled for April 10 & 11. For more information on CABs of Distinction and the Paso Robles CAB Collective, visit pasoroblescab.com or email info@pasoroblescab.com

Sponsors of the 2015 Paso Robles CAB Collective include: Smurfit Kappa Orange County / Orange County Container Group; The Tasting Panel Magazine; The SOMM Journal; FIJI Water; Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance; Parker Sanpei; Bruni Glass Packaging; GSO; Seguin Moreau; Farm Credit West ; Enartis Vinquiry; Cellotape / Landmark Label; Martinez Farming; Umpqua Bank; Portocork; Leroi Tonnellerie; Saury USA; Vintage Nurseries; Glenn Burdette; The Blueprinter; American General Media; Butlerz Events; WiVi; Cal Poly University; Paso Robles Inn; La Quinta Inn & Suites; La Bellasera Hotel.

Members of the Paso Robles CAB Collective include: ADELAIDA Cellars, Ancient Peaks Winery, Bon Niche Cellars, Brecon Estate, Broken Earth Winery, Calcareous Vineyard, Cass Vineyard & Winery, Chateau Margene, DAOU Vineyards & Winery, Eberle Winery, Halter Ranch Vineyard, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Jada Vineyard & Winery, JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, Le Cuvier Winery, Opolo Vineyards, Parrish Family Vineyard, Pomar Junction Vineyard & Winery, Record Family Wines, Red Soles Winery, Rotta Winery, Sextant Wines, Villa San-Juliette Vineyard & Winery, and Vina Robles Winery.

ABOUT THE PASO ROBLES CAB COLLECTIVE

Formed in 2012, the Paso Robles CAB (Cabernet and Bordeaux) Collective (PRCC) is an independent collaborative effort of leading Paso Robles growers and producers of Cabernet and red Bordeaux varietals specific to the Paso Robles AVA in California. The PRCC strives to promote the full potential of the Paso Robles region in producing superior quality, classic and age-worthy Cabernet and red Bordeaux varietals that compete with like varietals on a global stage to consumers and media worldwide. For more information, please visit www.pasoroblescab.com.