Vintage Eve Circa 11/2018 – How Was the Stars of Cabernet 2018? Two Words: New Discoveries

March 23, 2021 by evebushman

From WineLA.com: A Cabernet showcase, bringing the best producers to Los Angeles…meet the owners, winemakers, and executives and taste over 100 top quality cabernet wines…held at The Peninsula Beverly Hills, a 5-star and 5-Diamond property.

Eve and WineLA.com founder Ian Blackburn in 2016.

This is the 10^th anniversary of the Stars of Cabernet grand tasting event expertly orchestrated by Wine LA’s founder Ian Blackburn. I don’t think I’ve attended every event, but I’ve certainly covered a large number of them. With that said, I believe that this year held a lot of new discoveries for me as well as others, as the crowd was also very pleased with what they found.

The pour list is below, and as is my habit in a large public tasting, my notes are limited as to which wines captured my interest due to excellent aroma, flavor and a wholly pleasant tasting experience. I also was unable to visit every table and every wine, but I think I covered plenty of new ground. The wines I found most preferable, and that I will seek out to try to visit and purchase, are noted below in italics. (If you just want to see photos go here.)

STARS OF CABERNET WINE LIST

ADDENDUM WINES
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 Skellenger Lane, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford
2015 Stagecoach Vineyard, Cabernet Sauvignon, Atlas Peak

ALLEGRETTO VINEYARDS
2014 Malbec, Paso Robles
2015 Tannat, Paso Robles
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Willow Creek
2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, Willow Creek

ALMAVIVA WINERY
2009 Bordeaux Red Blend, Puente Alto, Maipo Valley, Chile
2014 Bordeaux Red Blend, Puente Alto, Maipo Valley, Chile
2015 Bordeaux Red Blend, Puente Alto, Maipo Valley, Chile

ANDERSON CONN VALLEY
2015 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 “Eloge” Prop Red Blend, Napa Valley
2016 “Right Bank” Prop Red Blend, Napa Valley
2015 “Signature” Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

BERNARDUS – I have visited this winery in Carmel Valley in the past and was pleased to taste this vertical presentation, the 2010 being my overall favorite.
2010 Marinus Estate, Marinus Red, Carmel Valley
2011 Marinus Estate, Marinus Red, Carmel Valley
2012 Marinus Estate, Marinus Red, Carmel Valley
2013 Marinus Signature Estate, Marinus Red, Carmel Valley

CAMI
2014 Red Wine Blend Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 Red Wine Blend Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

CHATEAU POTELLE VGS
2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Mount Veeder, Napa Valley
2016 FOURMEAUX, Red Blend, Wildcat Mountain Vineyard, Mount Veeder, Napa Valley
2016 Zinfandel, Alta Vista Vineyard, Moon Mountain, Sonoma County
2016 Potelle Two, Red Blend, Napa Valley

CHATEAU BOSWELL
2015 “At Anchor,” Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

CLOS DU VAL
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

DUCKHORN WINE COMPANY – The opportunity to taste the 2006 Estate Cab was a mindblower. Hope you have some in your cellar. Also enjoyed the 2015 as well.
2015 Duckhorn Napa Valley Cabernet
2016 Decoy Sonoma County Cabernet
2006 Duckhorn Estate “Patzimaro Vineyard” Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

FRANK FAMILY VINEYARDS – The 2014 was my favorite, however I enjoyed the older 2013 almost as much.
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2014 Rutherford Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford
2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Winston Hill Red, Rutherford
2016 Chardonnay, Carneros, Sonoma County

HAWK & HORSE VINEYARDS –A favorite at every STARS of Cab event I think, the Hawk and Horse 2009 Cab blew my socks off. Noticing a trend of liking some of these older Cabs…
2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills Lake County
2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills Lake County
2012 Latigo Cabernet Sauvignon Dessert Wine, Red Hills Lake County

HERB LAMB VINEYARDS – HL Vineyards was a new one for me. I noted that I enjoyed the 2014 best.
2011 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

HERTELENDY VINEYARDS – Another new winery discovery for me, I enjoyed both reds that were poured: the 2014 Cab and 2015 blend. This is a winery to watch.

2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 Chardonnay, Ritchie Vineyard, Russian River Valley
2015 Signature Mountain Blend, Napa Valley

HESTAN VINEYARDS
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Stephanie, Napa Valley
2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Blend, Napa Valley
2015 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast

JACK WINERY
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2016 Proprietary Red Blend, Napa Valley
2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

JONATA
2006 El Desafio De Jonata “the Defiance” Cabernet Sauvignon, Ballard
Canyon, Santa Ynez Valley
2015 The Hilt “Estate” Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills
2014 Jonata Todos Red Wine Vineyard Blend Ballard Canyon, Santa Ynez Valley

LADERA VINEYARDS – Another new discovery from Napa Valley. Meeting and tasting with managing partner Kacey Stotesbery – and I was completely charmed by the reds. I took her card with the idea of visiting soon.
2017 Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2014 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain

LAUREL GLEN VINEYARDS
2015 Counterpoint Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Mountain
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate, Sonoma Mountain

MAISON D’AMIS – Enjoyed the 2014 Red Wine Napa Valley for its percentage of Cabernet Franc.
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2014 Red Wine Napa Valley
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford
2016 Chenin Blanc, Clarksburg

MARCIANO ESTATE WINERY – Only one wine to taste here? No problem. It was pretty good.
2015 Marciano Estate M Proprietary Red Wine

MERRY VALE VINEYARDS – 2014 and 2015 were both quite grand. I hadn’t had a Merry Vale wine in awhile, glad I revisited.
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 Profile Red Wine, Napa Valley

MORAGA BEL AIR –This private vineyard in Bel Air, that sells to wine clubs and some local restaurants, was a treat to taste. The 2009 was stellar. Hope to get to try more in the future.
2009 Moraga Red, Los Angeles County
2014 Moraga Red, Los Angeles County
2014 Moraga White, Los Angeles County
2016 Moraga White, Los Angeles County

NELLCÔTE WINERY – Liked both of these Cabs extremely well.
2015 ‘Rallye 76’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 ‘500 Chevaux’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

PALAZZO WINE
2013 ‘Right Bank’ Reserve Proprietary Red Blend, Napa Valley
2016 ‘Left Bank’ Red Cuvee / Master Blend Series, Napa Valley

RELIC WINE CELLARS – I passed over the Pinot Noir as my taste buds were set to Cab, but the Rhone Blend, Grenache and Cab bottlings were all excellent.
2015 Ritual Rhone Blend, Napa Valley
2015 Paras Grenache, Napa Valley
2015 Putnam Pinot Noir, Napa Valley
2014 Artefact Cabernet, Napa Valley

RIBOLI FAMILY WINES
2014 Stormwatch Bordeaux Blend, Paso Robles
2013 Riboli Family Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford
2014 San Antonio “Centennial Blend”, Paso Robles
2014 Artefact Cabernet, Napa Valley

ROY ESTATE
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2014 Proprietary Red, Napa Valley

S.R. TONELLA CELLARS – There was also a 2010 Cab that I enjoyed at this table, as well as the 2015. And yes, another new one for me to discover.
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford Estate
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford Estate
2017 Sauvignon Blanc Reserve, Rutherford/Oakville

TRUJILLO WINES
2015 Trujillo Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 Madelynne Red Blend, Napa Valley

TUCK BECKSTOFFER ESTATE
2014 Amulet, Napa Valley
2014 Mockingbird Red Label, Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville
2014 Mockingbird Blue Label, Cabernet Sauvignon, Saint Helena
2015 Dancing Hares, Red Wine, Saint Helena

VINEYARD 29
2016 Cru Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2015 Aida Cabernet Sauvignon, St Helena
2015 29 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, St Helena

THE UNFILTERED COLLECTION
2014 AXR Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2014 Debate, Cabernet Sauvignon, To Kalon, Dr. Crane, Missouri Hopper
2014 Clark-Claudon Vineyards ‘Eternity’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain
2011 Michel Rolland “MR”, Napa Valley

CHÂTEAU GABY – The 2014 Cuvee stole the show for me at this table. And it was another new wine for me.
2014 Cuvee, Bordeaux Canon-Fronsac, France
2012 Chateau Gaby Bordeaux Canon-Fronsac, France
2014 Chateau Du Parc, St. Emillion Grand Cru, Bordeaux, France
2014 Chateau Moya, Cotes de Bordeaux, France

THE UNFILTERED COLLECTION – Tickled to find some Bordeaux from South Africa being offered. I really enjoyed the 2014 Finlayson Cabernet Franc, hoping to find that one again! And the last one that was new for me!
2016 Delaire Graff Botmaskop, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2015 De Toren Fusion V, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2012 Glenelly ‘Lady May’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2014 Finlayson Family Vineyards Edgebaston GS Cabernet Sauvignon, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2014 Finlayson Family Wines David Finlayson Camino Africana Cabernet Franc, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2014 Simonsig Tiara, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2014 Rustenberg John X Merriman, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2014 Overgaauw Tria Corda, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2015 Thelema Mountain Vineyards ‘Thelema’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2014 Zevenwacht Z Reserve, Stellenbosch, South Africa

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 15k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

STARS of Cabernet 2019? Yes! We did it again!

November 22, 2019 by evebushman

How many times have we covered STARS of Cabernet? A bunch. But why do we cover the same event year after year? Because year after year there are ALWAYS new wineries to discover, new vintages from old favorites and a bunch of wine-loving friends that we’ve made over the years that we get to see again. (If you want to cut to the chase just for photos go here.)

So what was new for us this year from the incredible wine list below? Well, Ian Blackburn of WineLA.com always does a tremendous job curating wineries for us, so it’s very hard to narrow it down! I have put the wineries in bold that we were able to visit – we can’t do it all – and have noted any special wines we want you to look for:

The 2019 STARS of Cabernet Tasting List

Addendum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA, 2015
Addendum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Stagecoach Vineyard, Atlas Peak, USA, 2015
Addendum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Skellenger Lane, Rutherford, USA, 2015
Alejandro Bulgheroni, Cabernet Sauvignon, Lithology Napa Valley, Napa Valley, USA, 2015 – we also had three 2016 single vineyard wines that were outstanding. This is a winery I will be looking for.
Allegretto Wines, Trio, Allegretto Vineyard, Paso Robles, 2017
Allegretto Wines, Malbec, Cira Vineyard, Paso Robles, 2015
Allegretto Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, Allegretto Vineyard, Paso Robles, 2016
Allegretto Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, Willow Creek, Paso Robles, 2015 – and thanks to Quin Cody for taking such good care of us.
Almaviva 2016 – During our tasting they were notified that this 2016 was a Wine Spectator Top Ten Wine of the Year, and guess what? Ran out before we could taste it, betting it’s sold out now as well!
Almaviva 2017 – a Chilean blend.
AXR – TBA
Barnett Vineyards Spring Mountain Cabernet, Spring Mountain District, USA, 2017
Barnett Vineyards Rattlesnake Cabernet, Spring Mountain District, USA, 2017
BV Tapestry Red Blend, Napa Valley, USA 2016
BV Cabernet Sauvignon Georges de Latour, Rutherford, CA USA 2016
BV Sauvignon Blanc, Rutherford, Napa 2018
Bernardus, Marinus Estate, Carmel Valley, 2010
Bernardus, Marinus Estate, Carmel Valley, 2011
Bernardus, Marinus Estate, Carmel Valley, 2013
Bernardus Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, Carmel Valley, 2017
Chappellet Signature Cabernet, Napa 2017
Chappellet Mountain Cuvee, Bordeaux Blend, Napa/Sonoma 2017
Chappellet Grower Collection Chardonnay, Calesa Vineyard, Petaluma Gap, 2017
Chateau Montelena, Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, 2015; Calistoga, USA – they also served a 2005 Cab that was amazing.
Chateau Montelena, Chardonnay, 2016 Napa Valley, USA
Clark Claudon – TBA
Crown Point, Estate Selection Bordeaux Blend, Happy Canyon, USA, 2014
Crown Point, Estate Selection Bordeaux Blend, Happy Canyon, USA, 2015
Crown Point, Cabernet Sauvignon, Happy Canyon, USA, 2016
Dana Estates – VIP 6 PM ONLY
Davis Estates – TBA
Dominus Estate – VIP 6 PM ONLY
Duhig Wine, 2016 Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon Coombsville Napa Valley – this was a nice discovery for us. The Cab was slightly chilled and had a lovely mouthfeel, and the two sisters working the table were delightful.
Ehlers Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016
Ehlers Estate Cabernet Franc, 2016
Ehlers Estate Portrait (Bordeaux Blend)
Ehlers Estate 1886, 2015
Napa Cabernet, 2016
Rutherford Reserve, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016
Winston Hill, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2014
Carneros Chardonnay
Arrowood Wines, Sonoma Estates Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016
Stonestreet Estate Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, 2016
Frank Family Vineyards 2016 Rutherford Reserve, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
Freemark Abbey, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2016
Hawk & Horse Vineyards – 2014 Petit Verdot, Red Hills, Lake County – always nice to taste with Hawk & Horse.
Hertelendy Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2015
Hertelendy Vineyards Signature Mtn Blend, Napa Valley, 2015- we missed seeing Ralph Herterlendy at the event this year but his wines were still amazing without him.
Hertelendy Vineyards Chardonnay, Ritchie Vineyard, Russian River Valley, 2015
J. Bookwalter, Cabernet Sauvignon, Volume 6 Dionysus Vineyard, Columbia Valley Washington, USA 2016
J. Bookwalter, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chapter 9 Conner-Lee Vineyard, Columbia Valley Washington, USA 2016 – new winery for us, good wines.
Jack Wines – TBA
Joseph Phelps Chardonnay, Freestone Vineyards, 2017
Joseph Phelps Pinot Noir, Freestone Vineyards, 2017
Joseph Phelps Insignia, Napa Valley, 2016
Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2016 – we’re club members, so it was so cool to see them at this event!
Gelson’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Coombsville, Napa Valley
Marciano Estate – TBA
Michel Rolland – TBA
Moët Hennessey presents – all unfiltered wines, I enjoyed all the 2015 Newton Estate: Spring Mtn, Yountville, Mt. Veeder
Monteverro – TBA
Moraga White (SB) Bel Air, CA, 2017
Moraga Red (Bordeaux Blend) Bel Air, CA, 2015
Napanook – TBA
Palmaz Cabernet 2016
Palmaz Cabernet 2015
Palmaz Chardonnay “Amalia” 2017
Prime Solum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA, 2015
Prime Solum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA, 2014
Prime Solum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA, 2011
Prime Solum Rosé of Cabernet Sauvignon, Brokenrock Vineyard, Napa Valley, 2018 – I had written about this winery for Napa Valley Life Magazine so it was a treat to see them and taste all of their yummy wines!
Relic Wines – TBA
Rocca, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot Blend, “Vespera” Grigsby/Collinetta, Yountville/Coombsville, USA, 2014
Rocca, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grigsby, Yountville, USA, 2014
Rocca, Cabernet Sauvignon, Collinetta, Coombsville, USA, 2013 –so cool to find Rocca at this event! Had visited them a few years back, and just like then I loved all of their wines.
Sequoia Grove Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2016
Seven Stones Winery – TBA
ST. FRANCIS WINERY & VINEYARDS, Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County, 2016
Teachworth Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate, Diamond Mountain District, 2016
Teachworth Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon, Manzanita Hill Vineyard, Diamond Mountain District, 2012
Teachworth Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rattlesnake Ridge Vineyard, Diamond Mountain District, 2012
T. Berkley Wines, Cabernet Franc, Leaning Oak Vineyard, Los Carneros, Napa, 2016 –This may have been my favorite wine at the tasting. I love Cab Franc and the winemaker told me that Cab Franc was the reason he became a winemaker. Same winemaker for both Teachworth and T.Berkley: Taylor Berkley Boydstun.
The Debate – TBA
The Unfiltered Collection, winemaker is Jean Hoefliger formerly of Alpha Omega, all native yeast: 2015 Clark Claudon “Eternity” Cabernet Sauvignon, V. Vineyards 2015 “Audace” Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016 “The Debate” Cabernet Sauvignon.
Trujillo Cabernet Napa Valley 2016
Trujillo Gary Morisoli Single Vineyard Designate Cabernet Rutherford 2016
Trujillo Henry Brothers Single Vineyard Designate Cabernet Howell Mtn. 2016
Two Old Dogs – TBA
V. Vineyards – TBA
Yount Ridge Cellars – TBA
ZD Wines, 59% Pinot Noir 41% Chardonnay, Anniversary Reserve Cuvee Sparkling, Napa Valley AVA, USA
ZD Wines, Chardonnay, California Chardonnay, California Appellation, USA, 2017
ZD Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2016
ZD Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2010

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.

The 11th Annual STARS of Cabernet, Once Again at The Peninsula Beverly Hills, Wednesday, November 13th

October 30, 2019 by evebushman

LA’s #1 Cabernet Showcase – no other event features the breadth of quality Cabernet wines in such an exceptional tasting environment, with an intimate high-tier audience limited to 140 guests!! As expected, this event sells-out every year and raises money for T.J. MARTELL FOUNDATION and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

Cabernet is KING and The STARS of Cabernet embraces the continued refinement inside the Cabernet category! Wines from Napa Valley, Sonoma Country, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, France, Chile, and Washington will be on display with abundant tray-passed appetizers and culinary delights! The STARS are the wineries themselves, and whenever possible, the winery table is hosted by a winemaker, proprietor, and/or a winery executive. A “first hand” tasting experience like none-other.

Over 35 luxury brands will be pouring over 100 amazing wines (For each of the featured Cabernets, wines retail at $50 or more). This event features the option of enjoying a 5:30 PM “Insignia” dinner with the President of Joseph Phelps Vineyards, Clarice Turner plus VIP tasting status **or** A 6 PM VIP Ticket providing early access to the Grand Tasting and includes: (1) A Peninsula Buffet Dinner w/ Carving station, (2) an older vintage tasting during the VIP hour, (3) a limited collectable tasting of Dana Estate and Dominus Estate, AND (4) the full registry of over 100 luxury wines, both Cabernet and other celebrated efforts / varieties from all places of quality. Both the 5:30 Dinner and the 6:00 PM VIP tickets include a VIP GIFT BAG of assorted artisanal treasures from various sponsors, with this year’s bag sponsored by GELSON’S. The 7PM ticket includes unlimited tasting and Peninsula Tray-Passed Appetizers with a Pasta station. All attending guests are also welcome to stay for the 9pm after party – when the music comes up and out comes the dessert! Magic Castle Magician Zach Waldman (made infamous on The Howard Stern Show!) will be performing throughout the evening showing off his sleight of hand expertise.

THE STARS OF CABERNET 2019 INCLUDE:

Addendum, ZD Wines, Bernardus, Trujillo Wines, Bulgheroni Wine, Crown Point Vineyards, Chappellet, Almaviva, Joseph Phelps, Allegretto Winery, Jack Wines, Two Old Dogs, Beaulieu Vineyard, AXR, Clark Claudon, Michel Rolland, The Debate, V. Vineyards, Monteverro, Hawk & Horse Vineyards, Napanook, Frank Family Vineyards, Teachworth Napa, J. Bookwalter Wines, Palmaz Vineyards, Ehlers Estate Winery, Prime Solum, Seven Stones Winery, Relic, Duhig Wines, Hertelendy Vineyards, Marciano Estate, Davis Estates, Barnett Vineyards, Chateau Montelena, Yount Ridge Cellars, Freemark Abbey, and a special wine made for Gelson’s by Winemaker Julien Fayard. **A special pouring older vintages and from Dominus Estate, and Dana Estate are limited to the 6pm VIP ticket**

A robust and automated silent auction of collectables and large format wines will benefit The T.J. 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 will sell out and prices do increase as the event date approaches – buy your tickets now!

For information and ticket purchasing, please visit STARSofcabernet.com

About TJ MARTELL FOUNDATION:

The T.J. Martell Foundation is the music industry’s largest foundation that funds innovative medical research focused on finding cures for cancer. The Foundation sources and supports early-stage research projects aimed at developing more effective clinical treatments for patients which otherwise might not be funded. WineLA has raised over $550,000 in the past 10 years for TJ MARTELL and this is our largest effort of the year.

About wineLA:

wineLA has focused on improving Los Angeles wine culture through ongoing educational tastings, classes and experiences. Educating and edu-taining with precision, we invite and welcome the best of the wine world to Los Angeles to partake. Established in 1995, wineLA was the first of its kind and continues to innovate, fortifying a quality wine audience one class, one tasting, one experience at a time. We are a part of the Los Angeles lifestyle, the wine lifestyle, and celebrate the people and the place with passion.

For more information visit www.wineLA.com or call 310-451-7600

The 10th Annual “STARS of Cabernet”

October 13, 2018 by evebushman

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.

The 9th Annual “STARS of Cabernet”

November 8, 2017 by evebushman

LOS ANGELES – LearnAboutWine, a wine education and event website dedicated to the education, service, and enjoyment of wine, is pleased to announce a stellar lineup of wineries appearing at the 9th annual “STARS of Cabernet” event on November 15 at One of the top hotels in the Los Angeles area, The Peninsula Beverly Hills.

Facebook Banner “STARS of Cabernet” is the premier tasting of the year that celebrates Cabernet Sauvignon. Over 36 of the best Cabernet producing wineries in California and the world will showcase their Cabernet as well as other wines. Tasting over 100 wines including cabernet and variety of others. Wineries come from Napa, Sonoma, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, France, Argentina and Chile. The only event of its kind in the Los Angeles area, which showcases some of the top bottles of Cabernet.

There will be guest winemakers that will host an intimate VIP reception before the Grand Tasting and share their experiences and expertise with the select crowd. Featuring Wines from: Hess Collection, Hertelendy Vineyards, Metaphora Wines, St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery, Guarachi Family Wines, Garden Creek Ranch Vineyards Winery, Cornerstone Cellars & Clos Du Val.

A silent auction, containing lots of collectable and large format wines, benefits TJ Martell Foundation. The T.J. Martell Foundation is the music industry’s largest foundation that funds innovative medical research focused on finding cures for leukemia, cancer and AIDS. The Foundation sources and supports early-stage research projects aimed at developing more effective clinical treatments for patients which otherwise might not be funded. Learn more at tjmartell.org .

Tickets now on sale.
For more information about the event and to purchase tickets please visit StarsofCabernet.com

Stars of Cabernet thanks its’ sponsors: Peninsula Hotel, Los Angeles Magazine, Evian, Robb Report, The Somm Journal & Tasting Panel

Confirmed Wineries:

Addendum Napa Valley

Arrowood Vineyards and Winery

Bernardus Winery Bordeaux

CAMi Vineyards

Clos Du Val

Cornerstone Cellars

Derenoncourt (Montesquieu Winery)

Duckhorn Wine Company D

unn Vineyards

Ehlers Estate

Folio Fine Wine Partners

Frank Family Vineyards Frog’s Leap

Gamble Family Vineyards

Garden Creek Ranch Vineyards Winery

Guarachi Family Wines

Hawk and Horse Vineyards

Hertelendy Vineyards

Hess Collection

Hestan Vineyards JH Collection

La Sirena Metaphora Wines Nellcôte

O’Shaughnessy Estate Winery

Oakville Ranch Winery

Silverado Vineyards

Smoking Gun Wines Spire collection/ Mount Brave Spottswoode/ Pilcrow/ True North

St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery

Stanton Vineyards

ZD Wines, Napa Valley

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, within easy walking distance of Century City and Beverly Hills’ legendary Rodeo Drive.

About LearnAboutWine and the new wineLA.com
Ian Blackburn, founder of LearnAboutWine, drinks wine for a living. Since it was established in 1995, he has built LearnAboutWine into the leading source for wine education and events in Southern California and as it turns 20 years old in 2015. To celebrate its 20th Anniversary, LearnAboutWine will get a big facelift and a new brand called wineLA (.com) will take over events and classes in Los Angeles. Ian Blackburn say’s “LearnAboutWine has a higher purpose that we intend to grow nationwide in 2015… an exciting time for us indeed.” Ian continues to innovate and focus on demystifying wine for everyone from the casual drinker to the potential collector and was voted as “One of the Top 5 Places to Taste Wine in Los Angeles” by LAist.com (8/2013). Ian’s passion for wine and entertaining makes him one of the top spokespersons in the United States and currently Ian is studying for his Masters of Wine. Ian’s entertaining ways can heard on YouTube, or on many of Los Angeles radio airwaves; ABC’s “The Bachelor” and on Wealth TV.

STARS of Cabernet Los Angeles and San Diego 2016

October 10, 2016 by evebushman

Announcing the 8th Annual STARS of Cabernet – November 9th and 10th.
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Los Angeles, California -WineLA’s Annual “Stars of Cabernet” is back and better than ever with the support of THE ROBB REPORT and the expansion into Del Mar California. Join us on Wednesday, November 9th at The Fairmont Grand Del Mar in San Diego and on Thursday, November 10th at The Peninsula Beverly Hills in Los Angeles.Long heralded as one of the best wine events in Los Angeles, STARS of Cabernet makes its San Diego debut on Wednesday November 9th, 2016. Proudly presenting some of the top collectible Cabernet producers, wineLA will be taking over the beautiful Grand Del Mar in San Diego for an unforgettable evening of delicious wine. Winery participants include: Ackerman Family Vineyards, Acumen Wine, Alpha Omega, Altra Wines, Ancient Peaks Winery, AXR, Bevan Cellars, Bookwalter Wines, Bougetz Cellars, CAMi Vineyards, Clark- Claudon, Calcareous Vineyard, DAOU Vineyards, Duckhorn Vineyards, Eberle Winery, The Debate, Ehlers Estate, Frank Family Vineyards, Gamble Family Vineyards, Garden Creek Ranch Vineyards Winery, Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Kapcsandy Family Winery, Kelleher Family Vineyard, Krupp Brothers, La Jota Vineyard, Laurel Glen Vineyard, Maisons, Marques & Domaines Selections, Metaphora, MR Michel Rolland, Modus Operandi, Mt. Brave, Neal Family Vineyards, Mullan Road Cellars, Oakville East, O’Shaughnessy Estate Winery, Petree Cellars, Pride Mountain Vineyards, Round Pond Estate, Seven Stones Winery, Sherwin Family Vineyards, Signorello Estate, Smith-Madrone, Steven Kent, Va Piano Vineyards, Vina Robles, Woodward Canyon and more.STARS of Cabernet is sponsored by the indispensable Robb Report’s Hosts Guide: recommendations for the finest wines, spirits, and cocktails to taste, serve, and share during the holiday season.

This fabulous event can be attended at one of 3 levels: VIP, GOLD, and SILVER.

VIP admission begins at 6pm with a seated dinner hosted by O’Shaughnessy Estate, Seven Stones, and Alpha Omega with winemaker Jean Hoefliger and all VIP guests will receive a sponsored gift bag upon departure. The VIP TICKET is $250 if purchased before October 31st, Price increases to $300 after.

GOLD admission begins at 7pm. The GOLD level includes unlimited wine tasting and an elegant assortment of appetizers, cheeses and dessert. The GOLD TICKET is $150 if purchased before October 31st. Price increases to $200 after.

SILVER admission begins at 7:30pm. The SILVER level includes unlimited wine tasting and tray passed appetizers. The SILVER TICKET is $100 if purchased before October 31st. Price increases to $150 on November 1st.

For years, wineLA has been a devoted supporter of the TJ Martell Foundation, and at STARS of Cabernet, guests will have a chance to bid on an array of extraordinary auction items to benefit the cause. This year’s auction will include: rare wines, dinners, collectables and trips ranging in value from $100 to $10,000. One hundred percent of the silent auction proceeds benefit the TJ Martell Foundation, a Nationwide Charity 501(c)(3) dedicated to supporting innovative and groundbreaking research for leukemia, cancer, and AIDS. WineLA has raised over $360,000, and we want to continue raising money for this fantastic life changing cause!

For more information about STARS of Cabernet or to purchase tickets visit www.STARSofCabernet.com or www.winela.com/starsofcabernet or call wineLA at (310) 451-7600 for excellent customer service. To join wineLA’s social community, visit Facebook and follow @winela411 on Instagram and Twitter.

Save the Date: STARS of Cabernet November 9-10

August 15, 2016 by evebushman

Announcing STARS of Cabernet
Over 40+ Cabernet producers from around the world is traveling to Southern California for an elite tasting event on Wednesday, November 9, 2016 at The Grand Del Mar in San Diego and Thursday, November 10 at The Peninsula Beverly Hills in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles, California – Los Angeles’ largest Cabernet event is back for its’ 8th year celebrating top collectible Cabernet brands. This year, wineLA will be not only taking over Beverly Hills, but San Diego as well! Past participants include: Ackerman Family Vineyards, Acumen Wines, Alpha Omega, Bougetz Cellars, Broman Cellars, Cain Vineyard & Winery, Cairdean Estate, Calcareous Vineyard, Cass Winery, Chateau Margene, Coquerel Family Wines, Daou Vineyards & Winery, Duckhorn, Eberle Winery, Frank Family Vineyards, Halter Ranch Vineyard, Hawk & Horse, Heitz Cellar, Hendry, Hidden Ridge Vineyard, J. Lohr Vineyard & Wines, John Bookwalter Winery, Jordan, Justin Vineyards, Krupp Brothers, Mario Bazan Cellars, Michael Mondavi Winery-Folio, Modus Operandi, Oakville East, Oakville Ranch Vineyards, Paradigm Winery, Parry Cellars, Patland Vineyards, Pomar Junction Vineyard, Priest Ranch Wines, Raymond Vineyards, Rotta Winery, Round Pond Estate, Salvestrin Winery, Sextant Wines, Signorello Estate, Sleight Of Hand Cellars, St. Supery Estate, The Debate, Tierra Roja, Va Piano Vineyards, Vina Robles Vineyards, Westerly Wines, ZD Wines. The winery participants for 2016 are to be announced in the coming month.This tasting will be jammed packed with wine, food and a whole lot of fun. Dance to special celebrity DJ, visit tables of local businesses and enjoy over 200 Cabernet wines. Early bird general admission gold and silver tickets can be purchased for $100- $125 and includes unlimited wine tasting, and an elegant assortment of appetizers, cheeses, and desserts. Wine aficionados can choose to purchase a VIP ticket for $200, which includes early admission, 6 p.m. plated dinner, exclusive tasting with and VIP sponsored gift bags upon departure. Tickets will increase October 1.

Guests will also have a chance to bid on an array of extraordinary auction items: rare wines, dinners, collectables, and trips ranging in value from $100 to $10,000. One hundred percent of the silent auction proceeds benefit the TJ Martell Foundation, a Los Angeles based 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to supporting innovative groundbreaking research for leukemia, cancer, and AIDS. We have raised over $350,000, and want to continue raising money for this fantastic life changing cause!

Stars of Cabernet will commence at 7:00 p.m. for gold ticket holders, 7:30 p.m. for silver tickets and 6:00 p.m. for VIP attendees.

For more information about Stars of Cabernet or to purchase tickets, visit www.winela.com/starsofcabernet or
call wineLA at (310) 451-7600.

About wineLA

wineLA is focused on enhancing the wine culture of Los Angeles. wineLA hosts significant events, occasional classes, and tastings of merit. This is the second phase of what the organization started 20 years ago at LearnAboutWine.com – America’s first wine education website and first in wine event creation.

To accomplish it’s mission, wineLA recognizes that wine must be placed in rhythm with fashion, music, food, geography, centers of interest, and architecture. Los Angeles is a giant playground with an amazing array of venues, spaces, wine bars, restaurants, beaches, rooftops, gardens, and magical views. wineLA is leaving a footprint of wine lifestyle by celebrating people, places, and passion.

Announcing the 7th Annual STARS of Cabernet

October 10, 2015 by evebushman

Upcoming wine tasting event showcases prestigious collectable wines from California and Washington; over 150 wines from 40 top Cabernet producers on Wednesday, November 18th, 2015 at PENINSULA Beverly Hills.

Beverly Hills, California – wineLA has exceeded annual expectations and has procured the best ever – STARS of Cabernet gathering. “All Cabernet producers are now confirmed and set. The line up has never been more diverse nor more exciting!” states Event Founder, Ian Blackburn.

It’s back and better than ever! Over 40 top Cabernet brands featured including wineries from Napa Valley: Duckhorn, Alpha Omega, Paradigm, Michael Mondavi, Hendry, Raymond, Cairdean Estate, Acumen, St. Supery Estate, Tierra Roja, The Debate by Jean Hoefliger, Oakville East, Coquerel Family, ZD, Parry Cellars, Mario Bazan, Signorello Estate, Frank Family, Oakville Ranch, Ackerman Family, Priest Ranch, Bougetz, Salvestrin, Cain, Patland, Krupp Brothers, Round Pond Estate, Heitz Cellar, Broman Cellars, and Modus Operandi Wineries. Paso Robles: Justin, Eberle, DAOU, and Calcareous! and from Walla Walla in Washington: Long Shadows, Sleight of Hand Cellars, Va Piano, John Bookwalter and other parts of California: Jordan (Sonoma), Hawk & Horse (Lake County), Westerly Wines (Happy Canyon), and Hidden Ridge (Sonoma)!

Meet the winemakers, executives or winery owners in this intimate tasting featuring over 100 wines. STARS of Cabernet features not only the best in Cabernet but a ratio of one winery to four guests – unmatched in the wine event universe.

Included in the “General Admission Ticket” are unlimited wine tasting, tray passed hors d’oeuvres, and an elegant assortment of breads, cheeses, and chocolate. Wine aficionados can choose from 2 VIP tickets, a $200 VIP ticket ($250 at the door) which includes a “Master Class with Jean Hoefliger” or a $250 VIP ticket ($300 at the door) that includes a “Master Class with 100-Point Collectable Producer – Lawrence Fairchild.” Both include the special VIP tasting w/dinner and a VIP Gift Bag from the event sponsors and partners.

Guests will also have a chance to bid on an array of extraordinary auction items: wine, dinners, collectables and trips ranging in value from $100 to $10,000. One hundred percent of the silent auction proceeds benefit the TJ Martell Foundation, a Los-Angeles based 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to supporting innovative groundbreaking research for leukemia, cancer, and AIDS. We have raised over $300,000 and want to make this our largest contribution yet!

STARS of Cabernet begins at 7:00 p.m. for general admission ticket holders and 6:00 p.m. for VIP attendees.

For more information about Stars of Cabernet or to purchase tickets, visit www.starsofcabernet.com or www.winela.com or call wineLA at (310) 451-7600.

About wineLA

To accomplish its’ mission, wineLA recognizes that wine must be placed in rhythm with fashion, music, food, geography, centers of interest, and architecture. Los Angeles is a giant playground with an amazing array of venues, spaces, wine bars, restaurants, beaches, rooftops, gardens, and magical views. wineLA is leaving a footprint of wine lifestyle by celebrating people, places, and passion.

Perlis Picks: Collier Falls

November 22, 2014 by Michael Perlis

Collier Falls

http://www.collierfalls.com/

A recurring theme during our recent visit to Sonoma was the early and quick harvest. Typically, with our visit happening in early October, there would have been plenty of grapes still on the vines. Not so this year. But, that didn’t make our hour-plus ATV vineyard tour with Barry Collier at Collier Falls anything less than an adventure-and-a-half. With the grapevines planted on steep hillsides and Barry navigating the turns like the seasoned veteran that he is, I swear I could hear the Indiana Jones theme song playing in my head. And there were still enough grapes on the vines, slightly raisined and very sweet, to satisfy that need as well.

I’ve known Barry for a few years, typically bumping into him at events such as Family Winemakers, Stars of Cabernet and most recently at the Sonoma In The City tasting in Beverly Hills. I’ve always been impressed by his wines as well as his passion and seemingly tireless energy for making wine and talking about it. But what has always intrigued me most is that he bottles both a Zinfandel and Primitivo and is very careful and adamant about distinguishing between the two.

Some winery owners have said to me that Zinfandel and Primitivo are the same, that Primitivo is just a type of Zinfandel. In other words, Primitivo can be legally labeled as Zinfandel but only Primitivo can also be labeled as Primitivo. Barry points out that they are in fact two different grapes with a common heritage, and when you see them side by side and even more importantly taste them side by side the differences are evident.

Barry can explain it better than I can:

“First of all, the clusters are totally different. While the Zin cluster generally has a shoulder or wing adding to the weight which can be 1 and 1/2 pounds on its own, the Primitivo cluster is half that size. Also the Zin berry is about the size of your thumb nail, the Primitivo is about the size of your pinky nail. These differences give you an idea of what the fruit offers as well. The Zin is big, juicy and aromatic with soft tannins and a slightly lighter complexion while the Primitivo is a little darker, denser and with more backbone, more of an Old World wine. While I’d pair the Zin with Duck breast or even Ahi Tuna, I’d pair the Primitivo with Spare Ribs off the grill or Pepperoni Pizza.”

But Barry and Collier Falls are not just about Zinfandel and Primitivo. In fact, after Barry left his successful music and movie production careers, he and his wife Susan acquired the Collier Falls property because they wanted to make world class Cabernet Sauvignon on the steep hillsides. They accomplished that and more, also making excellent Petite Sirah and Syrah. But, the area is well known for Zinfandel, and with Zinfandel grapes already planted on the property, Barry took the novel approach of interplanting Primitivo vines with the Zinfandel, ultimately producing delicious versions of both varietals.

Sadly, Susan passed away in 2007 from ALS.

Per the Collier Falls website: “Her passion for agriculture and wine, her appreciation of nature, and her infectious love of life, people and Sonoma County are represented in every bottle of Collier Falls we produce. Our Syrah du Soleil is in her honor, and comes from vineyards she helped plant. 100% of the proceeds from this special wine are donated to ALS research.”

Barry and his two sons carry on the tradition of producing excellent and exciting wine. After our tour of the vineyards, we headed to the tasting room to taste some of the current releases. [No tasting on the vineyard tour here – I like my wine swirled, not shaken!]

The tasting room is actually located a few miles back down Dry Creek road, in the cooperative Family Wineries http://familywines.com/ tasting room that Barry founded in 2005. Here you can taste not only the Collier Falls wines, but wines from Dashe Cellars, Forth Vineyards, Lago di Merlo, Mietz Cellars and Philip Staley. Indeed, with additional tasting rooms in the adjacent center, one could spend the better part of a day here.

We tasted the Collier Falls 2011 Zinfandel, 2011 Primitivo, 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2011 Late Harvest Primitivo. All the wines are made from estate fruit. The Zinfandel showed classic Dry Creek fruit without being overpowering, and the Cabernet Sauvignon was one of the more approachable Cabs that I’ve had – something about that hillside fruit. I am always drawn to the Primitivo and its richness. You should definitely visit this tasting room, and if you can arrange with Barry for a vineyard tour you’ll be in for a real adventure.

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

VIP Guest Winemakers Announced For The 6th Annual Stars of Cabernet, presented by Infiniti of Beverly Hills

September 27, 2014 by evebushman

STARS of Cabernet wine tasting at Peninsula Hotel, Beverly Hills

LearnAboutWine is pleased to announce the sold out line-up of quality wineries attending Stars of Cabernet presented by Infiniti of Beverly Hills on November 12th at the Peninsula Hotel, now includes Alpha Omega winemaker, Jean Hoefliger, and TEXTBOOK winemaker, Jonathan Pey.

Jean Hoefliger is one of the premier winemakers of Napa Cabernet today, and for the second year in a row will be the VIP guest at Stars of Cabernet. Jean Hoefliger was born and raised in Switzerland. His initial experience took him from Switzerland to Bordeaux, and South Africa, making wine at the esteemed estates of Chateau Lynch-Bages, Chateau Carbonnieux, and Meerlust. Completing a winemaking and viticulture degree at the Swiss federal school of Changins, Jean came to California where he spent five years as winemaker for Newton Vineyard before joining Alpha Omega. Jean’s passion, knowledge, innate ability and scientific training puts him in a unique position to take the best grapes of Napa Valley and transform them into wines worthy of world class standing.

Jonathan Pey was born on the East Coast, growing up with a Dutch father. As a teenager Jonathan moved with his family to Paris, France for three years where his cheeseburger and Coca-Cola upbringing collided face-first with the culture of the fine wines of Burgundy and Bordeaux. These influences played important roles in swinging his interests toward the production fine wine. Upon his return to America Jonathan earned a Bachelor of Science in Agronomy, a Masters in Business Administration and attended UC Davis winegrowing courses. Since 1985 Jonathan has enjoyed a broad, successful career in the wine business, tasting, listening and learning while working with some of the leading winemakers in the world; Jacques Lardiére (Domâine Louis Jadot), Christian Moueix (Petrus), Peter Gago (Penfolds) and Mr. Robert Mondavi.

In 2004 Jonathan and his wife Susan founded TEXTBOOK where they today produce small lots of critically acclaimed Oakville, Rutherford and Napa Valley wines. Robert Parker recently noted; “TEXTBOOK is a serious winery with gems in its portfolio that consumers should keep their eyes on.”

These guest winemakers will host an intimate VIP reception before the Grand Tasting and share their experiences and expertise with the select crowd.

Stars of Cabernet is the premier tasting of the year that celebrates Cabernet Sauvignon. Forty of the best Cabernet producing wineries in California and the world will showcase their Cabernet and other wines. Wineries come from Napa, Sonoma, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, France, Argentina and Chile.

Tickets are on sales now. For more information about the event and to purchase tickets please visit StarsofCabernet.com.

Stars of Cabernet thanks its’ sponsors: Infiniti of Beverly Hills, Real Hangover Relief, Infab Corp, Icelandic Glacial, Peninsula Hotel and Los Angeles Magazine.

Confirmed Wineries

Ackerman Family Vineyards	Lail Vineyards	Somerston
Alexander Valley Vineyards	Linked Vineyard	St Supery
Alpha Omega Winery	Mt. Brave	Steven Kent
Anakota	Mullan Road	Tanner Dafoe
Cain Five	Niner Wine	TEXTBOOK
Duckhorn	O’Connell Family Wines	The Farm Winery
Emblem Wines	Peju	Veedercrest
Frank Family Vineyards	Round Pond	ZD Wines
Hawk and Horse Vineyards	Shafer	Somerston
Joseph Phelps	Silverado Vineyards	St Supery
Blackbird Vineyards	Modus Operandi	Le Chanceux
Rocca Family Wines	Gamble	Frog’s Leap
Heitz Cellar	Bacio Divino	Bell Wine Cellars
Jordan Vineyard & Winery	Domaine Barons de Rothschild (Lafite)

About LearnAboutWine and the new wineLA.com

Ian Blackburn, founder of LearnAboutWine, drinks wine for a living. Since it was established in 1995, he has built LearnAboutWine into the leading source for wine education and events in Southern California and as it turns 20 years old in 2015. To celebrate its 20th Anniversary, LearnAboutWine will get a big facelift and a new brand, called wineLA (.com), will take over events and classes in Los Angeles. Ian Blackburn say’s “LearnAboutWine has a higher purpose that we intend to grow nationwide in 2015… an exciting time for us indeed.” Ian continues to innovate and focus on demystifying wine for everyone from the casual drinker to the potential collector and was voted as “One of the Top 5 Places to Taste Wine in Los Angeles” by LAist.com (8/2013). Ian’s passion for wine and entertaining makes him one of the top spokespersons in the United States and currently Ian is studying for his Master of Wine. Ian’s entertaining ways can be heard on You Tube, or on many of Los Angeles radio airwaves; ABC’s “The Bachelor” and on Wealth TV.

About Infiniti of Beverly Hills:

Infiniti of Beverly Hills is located in Los Angeles County and serving customers from all over California was built with one mission – Provide amenities to guarantee customer satisfaction before, during, and after the sale of our great Infiniti cars, and SUVS. If you are looking for a new Infiniti or used car, truck, van or SUV in LA County or other surrounding areas, we are a short drive away and want to earn your business today.

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, within easy walking distance of Century City and Beverly Hills’ legendary Rodeo Drive.

Click HERE for photos of past events.