Eve's Wine 101

Eve’s How To: The Wine Night

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We have a “wine night” with friends pretty frequently and it recently dawned on me that I’ve never written about how that works.

For some, or even most of you, you have some experience with this: you invite pals over, everyone brings a bottle or two to share over dinner, and you talk about the wines – why you chose them and how they fared during the evening. This blog post is to remind those with experience how to make it enjoyable for the newbie guest, and the how-to for a newbie host.

This one wine night I will use as an example is described a bit in this social media post: How was your last Wine Night with friends? We recently shared a 2019 Napa Hindsight Chardonnay that was new to me and Chablis-like due to its fresh fruit and no noticeable oak, then came the Grenache we mistook for Syrah or Mourvedre in a 2007 Domaine Du Pegau Chateauneuf Du Pape, a masterfully balanced 2000 Marcarini Brunate Barolo with dinner that benefitted from 6 hours of decanting, and two I was too tired to taste: 2010 Orma Super Tuscan and Camus VSOP Cognac. If I had to pick a favorite of the night it would be hard as the ones I had were all so good for many different reasons.

Now the details to help our wine 101ers:

Let your guests know what your menu is so they can bring a wine (or two) that they believe will be appropriate for pairing.

Always have a white to start. I’m amazed at how many people prefer sparkling, white or pink wines in general; so having at least one leaves no one out.

Decant any wine, in this case it was the Barolo, if you know requires it due to its youth or older age. Decanting allows more air to envelop a wine that needs to “open up” a bit before drinking. If you’re not sure, taste the wine before you serve it to guests. If it’s tight or tart decant it. You can also search the Internet for the same wine (same vintage year too) and see what others recommend.

Serve appetizers as well as a main course during your evening. Drinking wine without food causes early inebriation so having some starters helps. And as this may be when you are drinking your white wine, serve with cheeses, nuts, and crackers – nothing too big – unless you will be moving onto reds. If you do that before dinner then add in the charcuterie. Some wine people like charcuterie with whites too, it’s not my preference, but as in my recommendation for decanting – taste your food with your wine to educate your palate and form your own opinion.

When you do move onto reds you can do it a couple of different ways. Serve the lower alcohol wines first and move up the bigger ones last. You can decide what is served first depending on the menu. Big wine with big food. In this case we had the Barolo with a lasagna dinner, the Rhone that was more Grenache-based just before, and the Napa Chardonnay first. The Super Tuscan came at the end of the meal and the Cognac came last.

One other note on the order of the wines. If you have an amazing wine to share consider serving it early on in the evening. I had “palate fatigue” and couldn’t taste the final Super Tuscan or enjoy the Cognac, and I may have missed out.

Lastly, encourage your guests to taste each wine before committing to a full glass. That way if it isn’t their “cup of tea” they can move onto something else that is. I like to have at least two bottles open at a time to give guests that option.

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.

Eve + Friends Taste Through Gambero Rosso’s Tre Bicchieri Tour

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Once again, as I sometimes do, I get an invitation so remarkable I share the details with you. This is one of those times. Three cases of award-winning Italian wines to be tasted and reviewed over three zoom meetings in two weeks. This was literally the best two weeks I have spent over the last 52 weeks of our Covid year.

The tasting featured exceptional wines that have been awarded the coveted 2021 Tre Bicchieri designation, a designation given to only 1% of the top wines of Italy… 

Just some of my favorites from the three tastings!

Tasting 3 of 3 (I’m starting with these as this was my favorite case. Note: Sup is Superior, Cl. is Classico, Ris. is Riserva)

Ottella-Veneto-Lugana Molceo Ris. 2018 EB: Notes of ripe apple, sweet limes, riverbed, minerality, fresh and balanced. Right out of the gate – I liked this first wine.

Perla del Garda-Lombardia-Lugana Sup. Madonna della Scoperta 2017 EB: Bruised apple, cream, salinity, stone, butter – Chardonnay-like. I liked this wine even more. 

Tacchino-Piemonte-Barbera del M.to Albarola 2016 EB: Big dark fruit, black pepper, spicy with a beautifully balanced mouthfeel, my first red of the day and another on my favorite list.

Badia a Coltibuono-Toscana-Chianti Cl. 2018 EB: Bright red fruit, tart cherries, dust, rose petals, stemmy. This would be liked by my Pinot friends for sure.

Barone Ricasoli-Toscana-Chianti Cl. Gran Selezione Colledilà 2017 EB: Rich red fruit, balanced fruit and spice, earth, minerals, dry.

Tenuta di Arceno-Toscana-Chianti Cl. Ris. 2017 EB: Much darker on the nose and palate then the last two. Dark dry berries, espresso, dark chocolate, spice, drying tannins.

Tenuta Monteti-Toscana 2016 EB: Made with Petit Verdot, Cab and Cab Franc, this may have been my favorite wine of the day. Aged dark fruit, bark, cigar, sweet char, extra-long finish.

Piaggia-Toscana-Carmignano Ris. 2017 EB: Pungent dark fruit, rich, spicy, peppery, a hint of mint. A blend of Sangiovese, Cab and Merlot, and you guessed it, another favorite in the tasting.

Aria di Caiarossa-Toscana 2016 EB: A beautiful nose filled with rich fruit, pepper, concrete, toasted oak and sweet berry. A blend of Cab, Cab Franc and Merlot and yep, another one I wanted more of.

Tenuta di Sesta-Toscana-Brunello di Montalcino 2015 EB: A powerhouse of a wine with notes of dusty mature fruit, a lively palate that included cream and oak, heightened by floral notes and a fresh garden of herbs and flowers on the nose.

Speri-Veneto-Amarone della Valpolicella Cl. Sant’Urbano 2016 EB: This may have been the one wine I had enjoyed in the past and did again today. This one was velvety, just perfect with fruit, spice and dust, with a lovely lightly sweet long finish.

Tenuta Sant’Antonio-Veneto-Amarone della Valpolicella Campo dei Gigli 2016 EB: Our last wine of the day had a big nose filled with plums, prunes, oak, cigar, cigarette and smoke. Another great wine.

For the first two meetings I benefitted by having two collectors and two sommeliers joining me. The notes below are from Steve Roebuck, SR, Founder of Friends Who Like Wine in the Glass Facebook Group, edited down a bit due to space, with only additions from me as EB in italics. 

Tasting 1 of 3:

2019 Bortolomiol Valdobbiadene Brut lus Naturae SR: Ocean spray/salt on the palate with warm pears and apples, hints of wet river rock blending with lemon, bread, almonds and grassy notes. EB: Fresh fruit cocktail and Golden Delicious apple. My first favorite of the tasting.

2019 Biancavigna Conegliano Valdobbiadene Rive di Soligo Extra Brut SR: Bouquet of marzipan, apple, pear, creamy oats, brine, lime, peach and minerals. The wine had bright acidity but lacked depth and harmony. EB: Bruised fruit, minerality, earth and a marked tartness.

2019 Borgoluce Valdobbiadene Rive di Collalto Extra Brut SR: Aromas of warm pears, apricots, brine, wet slate and almond paste. The wine was balanced with nice layers of fruit, minerals that gave way to a lovely finish with hints of candied ginger. EB: Wet pebbles and cream.

2018 I Campi Soave CI. Campo Vulcano SR: A hint of petroleum and notes of lemon, lychee, wet gravel, nutmeg, grass and a nice earthiness. The wine had a lovely refreshing finish with a crisp note of pineapple. EB: Tropical fruit, Meyer lemon, and no acidity. Another fave for me.

2018 Leonildo Pieropan Soave CI. Calverino SR: Lovely aromas of salted ginger, white pepper, white peach, fuzzy kiwi and wet minerals.  The wine was intriguing with more lovely layers of peach, ginger, bitter chalkiness, baking spices and a nice savory quality. EB: Fresh citrus fruit, a sweeter nose that grew over time and great balance. My second favorite of the day.

2018 Tenuta Luisa Friuli Isonzo Friulano I Ferretti SR: Hints of beeswax, lemon zest, wet minerals, brine, apple, white peach, pear, almonds and band-aid. The palate was clean with hints of white peach, wet stones, cut herbs, with a touch of almond paste on the finish. EB: Lemon-lime.

2019 Tenuta Stella Collio Friulano SR: Wafting from my glass was a bouquet of honeysuckle, peach, apricot, buttered popcorn, anise seeds botrytis and a slight hint of burnt molasses. The wine was rich on the palate with integrated acidity that gave balance and structure to the wine. There was a luxuriousness to this wine, yet it was restrained and elegant. EB: Honey, churned butter, apricot. And another I really liked.

2018 Edi Keber Friuli Venezia Giulia Collio SR: An alluring bouquet of honey, apricots, brine, cinnamon, and anise seeds. On the palate there was a nice level of acidity that interwove through layers of tropical fruits, melon, honey and savory baking spices. Not as rich as the last wine but soft and elegant. EB:Favorited by one of the somms, lively lemon and a hint of licorice.

2019 Tiare – Roberto Snidarcig Friuli Venezia Collio Sauvignon SR: Typical old word aroma of Cat Pee blending in with hints of grass, salt, minerals, wet rocks, tree sap, slate, white peach, and spring flowers. The taste was crisp with nice acidity that lent balance to the palate, giving off hints of white peach, pear, wet slate, lemongrass and salted minerals. EB: Stone fruit, grass and earth.

2019 Bosco Del Merlo Veneto Sauvignon Blanc Turranio SR: This came across like a new world Sauvignon Blanc with a bouquet of honeycomb, lemon, apricot, bell pepper, white flowers and freshly cut herbs. The wine had lovely acidity that harmonized playfully on the palate with hints of lemongrass, apricot, honeysuckle, bell pepper and soft herbs. EB: Lemon rind, earthy, tart acidity. 

2019 Cantina Kurtatsch Aldo Adige A.A. Sauvignon Kofl SR: The aromas coming from the glass were bold and constructed a bouquet of burnt matchstick, grinding stone, burnt popcorn and smoldering car tire. EB: Mown grass.

2018 La Roncaia Friuli Venezia Giulia- Eclisse SR: Briny minerals, peach, fennel, gun flint, and savory spices and somewhat muted. EB: Bright citrus fruit, cream.

Tasting 2 of 3:

Part Two from Steve Roebuck, SR, and only additions from me, as EB, in italics.

Cusumano-Sicilia-Etna Bianco Altamora 2019 SR: Notes of peach, apricot, brine, kiwi, lime and wet limestone. The wine displayed a plush creamy palate with a hint of lemon drop hard candy on the finish. EB: Floral.

Pala-Sardegna-Vermentino di Sardegna Stellato 2019 SR: A bouquet of white flowers, white peach, brine, wet river rocks, honeydew melon and lemongrass. It had a nice level of acidity that allowed for hints of white peach, melon and a touch of honeysuckle on the finish. EB: This was another favorite amongst our somms. Very floral, lemon peel, kiwi. 

Surrau-Sardegna-Vermentino di Gallura Sup. Sciala 2019 SR: Aromas of Spring flowers, honeydew melon, brine and apricot. Similar on the palate with crushed gravel and lime notes. EB: Pear, salinity and minerality.

Feudo Antico-Abruzzo-Tullum Pecorino Biologico 2019 SR: An interesting bouquet of fresh cut fennel, baked bread, cheese yeast, pears, brine, limestone and lemons. A nice acidity that brought harmony to the layers of orchard fruits that played off the crisp minerals. EB: Our somm liked this one as well, found it savory. Lots of fruit and earth.

Tenuta Terraviva-Abruzzo-Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo Giusi 2019 SR: The wine  seemed a bit off to me; however, the bouquet gave off aromas of strawberries, cranberries, lime and gunflint. EB: Cooked fruit.

Valle Reale-Abruzzo-Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Vign. di Popoli 2015 SR: A lovely bouquet of dusty earth, coffee, pepper, cherries, pine nuts and Jolly Rancher hard candy. Medium plus in body with rounded tannins that gave way to hints of cherries, dusty earth, minerals and soft herbs. EB: Balanced.

Poggio Le Volpi-Lazio-Roma Rosso Ed. Limitata 2017 SR: An expressive bouquet of cherries, espresso, white pepper, prunes and molasses. Full bodied with rounded tannins and a palate displaying hints of cherries, prunes, cut dill and wood. EB: Dark fruit, spice and incense. 

Donnachiara-Campania-Taurasi 2016 SR: An alluring bouquet of cherries, coffee, caramel, herbs, vanilla, burnt sugar and cassis fruit. Full bodied with gripping tannins that painted the palate with hints of dark berry fruit, earthy minerals, herbs, spice and a touch of caramel.  EB: Our two collectors liked this one. Espresso, dark dusty fruit – black cherry – and tannins.

Felline-Puglia-Primitivo di Manduria Zinfandel Sinfarosa Terra Nera 2017 SR: A rich bouquet of blackberries, cherries, toffee, coffee, pepper, bell pepper, molasses and notes of raisins. Full bodied with gripping tannins that brushed the palate with hints of dark berry fruit, coffee, white pepper, dusty earth and herbs. A nice level of extraction going on that brought richness to the wine. EB: Sweet tobacco, rich and layered, ash. My husband’s pick of the day.

Coppi-Puglia-Gioia del Colle Primitivo Senatore 2017 SR: Notes of cherry, powered chocolate, coffee, dried herbs, white pepper, bell pepper, decaying forest floor, graphite, brine and dusty earth. The wine was medium plus in body with gripping tannins that gave way to hints of cherries, chocolate, bitter coffee, herbs, and lead pencil. EB: Tri-color peppercorn, blackberry jam, more fruit than spice, balanced.

Pietradolce-Sicilia-Etna Rosso Archineri 2017 SR: Hints of dried cherries, leather, menthol tobacco, mint and pomegranate. Medium plus in body with layers of fruit that harmonized nicely with hints of olives, cedar and dusty minerals. EB: Like a Pinot Noir with stewed cherry, brambles and rich earth.

Cottanera–Sicilia-Etna Rosso Feudo di Mezzo 2016 SR: A vibrant bouquet of rose petals, cherries, coffee, chocolate, bell pepper, brine and cedar. Medium plus in body with gripping tannins that gave way to a palate painted with hints of cherries, pomegranate, chocolate, earthy forest floor, minerals and wood. EB: Again, like a Pinot Noir, with pungent berry fruit.

These are links to the two photo albums Roebuck made:

https://www.facebook.com/roebuck.steve/posts/10221692263527457

https://www.facebook.com/roebuck.steve/posts/10221704825561500

Social Media Handles

@bortolomiol_proseccosuperiore @biancavigna_prosecco @borgoluce
@icampiwinery @pieropanwine @tenutaluisa @tenutastellacollio @edi.keber
@tiarevini @boscodelmerlo @cantinakurtatsch @laroncaia @cusumanowinery @palawines @vignesurrau @feudo.antico @tenutaterraviva @valle_reale @poggiolevolpi @donnachiarawinery @agriculturalfelline @vinicoppi @pietradolce @cottanera @ottellawinery @perladelgarda.official @luigi_tacchino @badia_coltibuono @ricasoli1141 @tenutadiarceno @tenuta_monteti_official @piaggia_winery @caiarossa @tenutadisesta @speriwinery @tenutasantantonio

https://www.gamberorossointernational.com/wines/

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.

 

Welcome to Arizona’s Wine Region!

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When you think about your favorite wine regions, Arizona might not be the first state to come to mind! However, Arizona boasts a thriving wine industry dating back to the Spanish missionaries of the 16th century and features three prominent wine regions: Sonoita, Willcox, and Verde Valley. Not only have these regions produced award-winning wines receiving international acclaim, but some of their wines have also even been served in the White House.

●      Sonoita, Willcox, and the Verde Valley have soil and climate conditions similar to those in parts of the South of France, Spain, and Southeastern Australia. Oenophiles can delight their senses with grape varieties native to Spain, Italy and the Rhone River Valley in France. 

●      Arizona is often associated with arid temperatures and cactus-spotted deserts; however, weather conditions are temperate, and the high elevations lend to near-perfect conditions for growing grapes. In the Willcox Region, vineyards are located high above the desert terrain and heat, surrounded by area mountain ranges.
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Here, 74% of Arizona’s wine grapes are harvested. In the Verde Valley Region, the ideal combination of elevation, volcanic soil, and diurnal swings (hot days and cooler nights) lend to more flavorful, full-bodied wines. The Sonoita region is Arizona’s first American Viticultural Area (AVA). This region boasts many similarities to the Italian “Super Tuscan” region, with unique climate and soil characteristics, and its distinctive ability to retain natural water.

●      Wine grapes are considered a low-impact, specialty crop, which is defined as low acreage and high-density agriculture. Here, grapes are drought-tolerant and are predominantly grown using drip irrigation. For comparison, an acre of mature vines can use around 1.5 acre-feet of water per acre each year. Corn and alfalfa both use more than 4 acre-feet of water per acre each year, even up to as much as 6 acre-feet per year. As a result, wine grape crops offer an “added value” with economic benefits and sustainability techniques which save water and nutrients, thus minimizing the impact on natural resources. Some areas also use managing techniques such as mowing native grasses, which can help control weeds and tree/brush.
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●      Arizona’s native grapevine, Vitis arizonica, can be spotted growing in and around many wineries in Arizona. Vitis arizonica is one of approximately 60 grape species that are being studied extensively to improve wine grapes. Recent research has shown Arizona grapes are more resistant to Pierce’s disease than cultivated forms. UC Davis California, for instance, has created new grape varieties bred by Vitis arizonica that carry a single dominant gene for resistance to Pierce’s disease, (a disease caused by a bacterium spread by a group of insects called sharpshooters). Scientists hope that hybrids between Arizona and wine grapes will reduce the incidence of the disease.

●      With road-tripping on the rise, Harvest Hosts offers an impressive and timely network of wineries, breweries, distilleries, farms, and attractions that invite RVers to stay in stunning campsites! Harvest Hosts offer a different way for RVers to meet other travelers, stay overnight in gorgeous settings, and create long-lasting memories. For a small annual membership price, members can stay overnight at any Harvest Hosts site, all of which are pet and family friendly. Please note that members are kindly invited to support their hosts by purchasing one of their local products with each stay. 

In addition, local wineries have been holding virtual tastings and have recently released new varietals, more award-winning wine, including the 2018 Viognier from the SouthWest Wine Center (SWC) at Yavapai College. The SWC was established to fulfill the education and workforce development needs of a thriving Arizona wine industry and offers the only program of its kind. The academic program provides hands-on Viticulture experience in the vineyard and cellar, an experience that cannot be duplicated solely in a classroom setting!

Alessia Antinori to Headline South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival, April 23 – 26, 2020

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MIRAMAR BEACH, FLA. (PRWEB) – Alessia Antinori of Marchesi Antinori, the most famously iconic winemaking family in history, will pour her family’s highly prized Italian wines at the South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival, taking place April 23 – April 26, 2020, in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin (not to be confused with the Sandestin resort or Sandestin wine festival). With more than 600 quality wines and dozens of spirits to taste over four days, this annual award-winning charity event delivers an unparalleled wine experience.

Antinori’s wines will be featured in Culinary Village and will be paired with an exclusive menu of authentic Italian dishes by Festival Culinary Director, Scott Plumley.

“At the beginning in the renaissance period we were more merchants and then after a few generations we started to produce wine in the Chianti Classico. The last generation has been very important because we focused on buying land to plant vineyards to assure that we could guarantee the high quality of the product. The last period we started to focus on the quality of the product and on the vineyards which we owned to try to get the best from them,” said Antinori, whose family has been making wine for 26 generations.

Attendees will be able to engage with Antinori and learn how her family’s wineries have evolved over six centuries since being established in 1385.

“We are talking about a business which is human and nature related and for this reason we believe the way to succeed is to transmit values like passion, quality and integrity from generation to generation and for this reason we want to maintain it in the family,” said Antinori.

Antinori will also present one of the weekends popular tasting seminars where her family wines will be paired exclusively with award-winning cheeses and charcuterie presented by world-renowned cheese expert and educator Michael Landis of the Intitut du Fromage.

Alessia Antinori said the tasting attendees can expect “that they will understand our family, our passion, our lifestyle and that they can appreciate our wines through our values and tasting a good glass of wine!”

Another festival highlight will be the Jackson Family Wine World pavilion which will feature their Chardonnays, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Viogniers from California and “big reds” including Cabernet Sauvignons, French Bordeaux, Italian Super Tuscans, Australian Shiraz and more.

South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival will present some of the most acclaimed winemakers and master distillers in the world, including Mariano Buglioni, the owner of the eponymous estate in San Pietro in Cariano, located in Valpolicella Classico; Greg Brewer winemaker and owner of Brewer-Clifton; Daniel DAOU, winemaker and proprietor, DAOU Family Estates; Jill DelaRiva Russell, winemaker of Cambria Winery; Jesse Lange, owner and principle, Lange Winery; Jared Himstedt, head distiller of Balcones Distilling; and Jessica Koga, Associate Winemaker, Davies Vineyards and Schramsberg Vineyards.

The festival kicks off Thursday at 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. with Winemakers & Shakers, held at Wine World in Destin. The VIP Wine Tasting is part of a 3-Day Package and takes place Friday, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m., followed by the Friday Craft Beer & Spirits Jam, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. The Grand Tastings are Saturday and Sunday, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. The VIP Tasting can only be attended by purchasing the VIP Wine Festival 3-Day Package that includes most festival events as well.

Tickets can be purchased at SoWalWine.com.

The South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival is truly a celebration of wine, food and music that everyone can feel good about. This event is a major fundraiser for the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation with proceeds benefiting more than a dozen children’s charities in Northwest Florida.

Presented by Grand Boulevard at Sandestin and Visit South Walton, the festival offers the ideal backdrop for wine, charity and fun along the South Walton beaches, named among the best beaches in the country.

South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival is made possible by the generous support of the following Founding Partners: Visit South Walton Tourist Development Council, Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, Wine World of Northwest Florida and Grand Boulevard at Sandestin®. Resortquest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals is the Official Lodging Partner.

About South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival
South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival is an annual charity event held the last weekend in April. The festival features a stunning showcase of some of the best wines in the world. Celebrity wine producers and chefs present fine wine and food pairings from the world’s most famous appellations. The Culinary Village offers a sumptuous array of foods to taste, wines to pair, as well as wine and food tasting seminars. The event is a major fundraiser for Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, which benefits children in need in Northwest Florida. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit SoWalWine.com.

SUPER TUSCANS DEMYSTIFIED and WHYNOT WINE SAVER SHOWCASE

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Last month I got another look at the whynot wine saver (2019 article) and benefitted from the expert knowledge from the North American Sommelier Association president Diego Meraviglia, on what the heck a Super Tuscan is and how it came to be. The invitation is below, then my notes of what I learned and photos are here. 

For decades and decades, a mystical and highly revered wine category has commanded sales, ratings, prices and stirred up awe and buzz across the wine-world and most of all in the United States Tuscan in origin, but international in spirit, “SUPER TUSCANS“ have represented some of the best bottlings to leave Italian soil, world-bound. 

But what exactly are they? Not even an official category…SUPER TUSCANS blasted onto the wine world through contradiction, controversy and a pioneering soul in the 1960’s and were some of the very first Italian wines to make a name for themselves and Italy across the planet. 

Very often misunderstood, misrepresented and erroneously explained and perceived, our mission is to shed light and clarity on a mystical and legendary Italian wine category that has little of official to begin with. 

What Exactly is a Super Tuscan?

There are no rules about what a Super Tuscan has to be. According to Meraviglia the term was made up by the American press, namely a young Robert Parker that was sent a bottle to review. It gave a term to a popular wine without an appellation to define them.

Located in Central Italy, where they had learned that almost any grape varietal could thrive (just not Nebbiolo or Nordic grapes) due to the length of the growing season. Like California, they could focus on Bordeaux and Rhone varietals, and others like Zinfandel. The area benefits from super rich soil with limestone, and a mild climate that produces balanced wines.

There is some history Meraviglia shared as well. The area began with rich landlords during the feudal system where they built a castle, houses, a wall around it all and shared half of what they grew with the people that lived there.

The landlords soon decided there was a wine surplus and decided to sell some of it.

Sassicaia first appeared in 1968 and with that, Super Tuscans were born. It’s a Cabernet Sauvignon – a phenomenon in Italy at the time when these wines could only be labeled as a Red Table Wine. This wine got a lot of attention in the U.K. and the U.S., received high point scores and was very popular, with that the Super Tuscan term stuck. In 1971 Tignanello proved to be the second Super Tuscan.

So when you buy a Super Tuscan you are buying a brand label, not an appellation. All are different grapes varieties – and some may or may not include indigenous grapes. The wines are more like Bordeaux or California wines, basically made in a more international style.

We also learned a little about the different areas and soils which can be seen in the photos I took here. Find Super Tuscans being made in Chianti, Chianti Classico, Montalcino, Bolgheri and Maremma.

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.

Perlis Picks: Make Your Own Paso [Part 3 at J Dusi]

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Coming Home to J Dusi Wines

homepagepicWe hadn’t visited J Dusi in some time, but in our quest to share with our family members what makes Paso Robles special to us, it seemed almost a requirement. After all, the name Dusi is practically synonymous with Paso Robles.

Janell Dusi [the J in J Dusi] has been making wine commercially since the 2006 vintage. But the Dusi vineyard is much older than that, planted in 1945 by her grandfather Dante, who, sadly, passed away late in 2014. Since the vineyard was planted, Dusi Zinfandel has been prized for its distinct full flavors and the grapes have long been sold to discerning wineries such as Turley, Cypher and Tobin James. But no wine was made commercially by the Dusi family until Janell decided it was time to do so. And even though family members had long said that they were growers and not winemakers, when Janell was ready to make that leap her family supported her wholeheartedly.

My wife Karen and I first tasted Janell’s wine [that inaugural 2006 vintage] at a Paso Robles wine country “road show” of sorts held at a hotel in Santa Monica. Pretty sure it was the star of the show that day. It wasn’t long thereafter that we paid a visit to Janell at her parents’ home on the Dante Dusi Vineyard, dragging along some friends to whom we had raved about our new winery discovery. Multiple visits with multiple friends followed, and always the Dusi family has been incredibly welcoming, enthusiastic and gracious.

And I’ve visited a lot of vineyards in my day. Some of them just feel special. Nowhere have I felt this more than at the Dante Dusi Vineyard. There is just such a “sense of place” about it to me.

Janell’s success and an opportunity to acquire a winery on Highway 46 West a couple of years ago has enabled her to expand on her vision. But, even though we were not visiting the family home this time, it still felt like coming home. Janell’s mom Joni welcomed us with open arms before we even got into the tasting room. We knew that Janell was still at the family vineyard and would be joining us shortly, but we couldn’t wait for her; we wanted to start tasting the latest offerings in the tasting room. We tasted…

2014 Pinot Grigio – clean and light; a perfect way to refresh our palates.

2013 Zinfandel from the Dante Dusi vineyard – another zin hit out of the park by Janell; consistently one of my favorite wines.

2012 GSM [Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre] – delicious blend; really noticed the Grenache.

During our visit, Janell finally made it to the tasting room and we continued our tasting with her…

2013 The Don [blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon] – one of the advantages of Janell’s new winery is she gets the freedom to try new things such as this Super Tuscan blend. Admittedly I am not usually a fan of California Sangio but this was an exception to the rule.

2013 Caterina’s Syrah – always a solid bottle from J Dusi.

Not on the tasting list but one I just needed to try [and buy] was the 2013 Petite Sirah. Just one barrel was made of this wine, and the label marked the exact location in the vineyard the grapes came from. A massive wine, but deliciously so. I’d lay this one down for a while.

Finally, a visit to J Dusi would not be complete without tasting Janell’s famous grappa. I’m a fan of grappa, some more than others. Janell’s really allows the zinfandel flavors to shine through.

As we said our goodbyes to Janell and Joni, it really felt like it had been a homecoming. Even though I miss the vineyard [which I hope to visit again one day soon], home is more about the people than the place anyway, right?

J Dusi Wines

1401 Hwy. 46 West
Paso Robles, CA 93446

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

Chef Eve 101 Makes: Maria’s Italian Deli Ravioli and Meatballs

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No, I didn’t just go to Maria’s and order dinner and write a post about it.  There was one, maybe two, more steps.  The first step was that was when I was there ordering dinner I spied some really cool items in their freezer: Ziploc bags of meatballs, cheese ravioli and spinach ravioli.  About a dozen in each bag.  I figured, heck, this would be good to have on hand when we decide that another dinner I made had sucked and/or it was too cold/wet/hot/humid to go out to dinner.

Recipe (Step Two)

 

Ingredients 

6 thawed Maria’s meatballs (about 4 hours or less)

18 frozen cheese ravioli

Water for boiling (splash of olive oil and salt, just like my Italian mama taught me)

Fresh garlic bread from Ralphs (or your market of choice)

One jar of Ragu (or your preferred jarred spaghetti sauce)

Green salad

’09 Pure Cru Sangio Vetta (Pairing note: Pair your food with the wine it’s meant to go with.  i.e. Italian food with an Italian wine!)

 

photo 3Directions

Open the wine and have a splash.

Preheat oven at 350 degrees.

Bring Ragu to a boil, add meatballs, lower to a simmer for 30 minutes.

Boil water.

Just before you put ravioli in to boil begin to bake bread. (approximately for 15 minutes)

For the last ten minutes that the bread is baking, softly boil the ravioli. (I’ve learned that homemade ravioli can be tender.  These were, but none burst.  Nice fluffy pillows – see photo.)

Serves 3 (Though the meatballs weren’t huge, one was enough.  And though we planned 6 ravioli each we had about 4 leftover.  So I would say, if you are having the garlic bread and salad, this could serve 4.)

 

My tasting notes on the Sangio Vetta

All Napa grapes, 25% Cabernet Franc, 75% Sangiovese. Has received several gold star medals, as many of his wines do: Orange County, San Francisco, etc.  The wine is made like a Brunello with a third year in barrel, and blended like a Super Tuscan.  A $28 bottle of wine – a price winemaker Mitch Cosentino can do even with all that time using up space and barrels in the aging!

Chocolate covered black cherry cordials, one-day old spaghetti sauce (the way it should be served), milky chocolate; balanced, dry, great black cherry and smoke finish. This was my favorite during a full tasting.  (More tasting notes on Pure Cru Wines: http://evewine101.com/2013/12/06/the-pure-cru-wine-experience-with-pure-cosentino/

TUSCANY-WINE-AND-BIKE ANNOUNCES 2014 SEASONAL WINE & CULINARY TOUR INTERARIES

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 A Triple Itinerary of Understanding the Wine, Land & History of Tuscany While Experiencing the Unparalleled Beauty of an Outdoor Excursion

TUSCANY WINE and BIKE (TWB) announced their new 2014 Wine Tasting & Culinary Biking Tour Itineraries effective April 26, 2014 through September 27, 2014. Led by local freelance oenologist and Winemaker Carlo Travagli and cycling enthusiast Luca Casini, TWB tours trek on mountain bikes across the provinces of Siena, Firenze, Pisa and Pistoia through the scenic, historic Chianti Wine Region of Tuscany.

cr-960x430-tuscany-wine-bike-150“Each itinerary is actually a ‘triple itinerary’ that provides our guests with an understanding of the wine & cuisine, area & geography, and the culture & history of the places we will explore,” says Travagli. “I created these tours to give people an intimate look at my home — this extraordinarily beautiful, dynamic agricultural and world renown wine growing region.”

On the TWB TOUR, participants will awaken their senses through the vibrant colors, intoxicating scents, and breathtaking sights as Tuscany’s most robust seasons dramatically unfold before them. Cycling through fragrant olive groves, rolling vineyards, vibrant sunflowers fields, majestic woods, and other fascinating scenic spots, participants will uncover the most authentic aspects of Tuscany, often missed and overlooked by visitors using conventional means of transportation, additionally they will:  

Discover the Pearls of Tuscany, the historical points of interests, churches and buildings rich with art, centuries-old villages and towns as they follow paths and ancient roads like the “via Francigena.”

Experience Tuscan life, people, culture and places traveling through towns and farmlands, with opportunities to stay overnight.

Learn about one of the world’s most famous winemaking regions, the microclimates, viticultural areas and revered varietals, and the role of its landscape and history.

Savor the distinct flavors of the countryside including the local harvests, cherished honey, succulent olives & oils, sumptuous salumi, handcrafted cheeses, and enjoy the regional artisan products and cuisine of TWB select regional partners.

Taste regional wines among the vineyards and cellars while visiting local estates, receiving both lessons and guided tastings by Travagli, an award-winning winemaker of Chianti, Chianti Classico (Gallo Nero Black Rooster), Sangiovese, and IGT Super Tuscan wines.

No rigorous physical conditioning is required for the majority of the TWB itineraries. “Most of our itineraries are designed for tourists without extensive athletic training.” Travagli stresses. “It’s for pure enjoyment and we try very hard to match each itinerary with the interests, comfort level, and ability of our guests.”

However, for both intermediate and advanced cyclists, Travalgi and Casini have designed several challenging itineraries including the 7-day Bio Week Tour.  The Bio Week Tours have additional activities such as cooking lessons, donkey treks, and urban bike tours. Customized Tours are also available.  For more information, visit the Tuscany Wine and Bike website, Email TWB or call (+39)333 9206700.

10 Choices of TWB Tour Itineraries include:

Day Tours: Il Chianti* – Il Chianti Under the Stars*  – Forts & Castles*

Weekend Tours: Il Chianti Classico* – Il Chianti Classico Under the Stars* – Wild Chianti***

Multi-Day Tours: Hidden Chianti* – Pearls of Tuscany** —  Heart of Chianti*** –  Bio Week Tour**

Difficulty level guidelines:

*Easy Going is a tour where no athletic training is necessary. Suitable for tourists of all levels and children (10yrs+). No dangerous downhill or steep slopes.

**Intermediate/Medium is for the weekly rider who cycles 2-3 times a month covering distances of 20-25km with a slope not higher than 500 meters. A minimum of training is necessary. This tour has been created for Mountain Bike enthusiasts and lovers of outdoor excursions.

***Hard Going is a tour where some light training is necessary.  It is for the active rider who cycles once or twice a week, covering distances of about 35-45 km with slopes of about 1,000 meters. This tour is tailored for trained people, mountain bike enthusiasts and lovers of outdoor excursions.

About Tuscany Wine Bike (TWB):

TWB is a complete wine tasting and culinary biking tour experience created by local freelance oenologist and Winemaker Carlo Travagli.  Led by Travagli and cycling enthusiast Luca Casini, the tour treks on mountain bikes across the provinces of Siena, Firenze, Pisa and Pistoia through the historic and scenic Chianti Wine Region of Tuscany, located on the Central West Coast of Italy. TWB has developed a biking tour designed to capture and uncover the most authentic aspects of Tuscany, often missed and overlooked by visitors using conventional means of transportation.  TWB provides participants with everything they need to explore Italy’s most renown wine growing region including all equipment, expert guides, oenologist guided wine tasting, meals provided by regional partners, varied itineraries catered to both conditioning level and interests of the participants, round-trip pick-up service, optional lodging, technical support and emergency recovery service, and insurance. For more information, visit the Tuscany Wine and Bike website. To keep up with the latest TWB activities and special offerings, register for their newsletter, join TWB on Facebook, and follow TWB on Twitter. Email TWB or call (+39)333 9206700.

Perlis Picks: Kobrand Tour d’Italia 2013

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Admittedly, my wine knowledge is pretty focused on California. So, when I get an opportunity to add to knowledge outside of my primary area of expertise, especially when it is in a great environment, I do my best to jump at that.

The Kobrand Tour d’Italia 2013 wrapped up its eight-city tour at the Hotel Sofitel in Beverly Hills on September 19th. I had the pleasure to attend the guided tasting entitled: Experience the Iconic Wines of Italy.

Upon entering the room, we were greeted at our seats by seven glasses of wine – one white and six reds. 20130919_104947

We were also greeted by who was to be the moderator of the panel discussion, Jennifer Simonetti-Bryan. Ms. Simonetti-Bryan became only the fourth woman in the United States to achieve the prestigious Master of Wine designation. She told me she started out in the banking industry – possibly that’s what drove her to drink (just like accounting probably influenced me)?

Ms. Simonetti-Bryan discussed Italy’s rich wine heritage, which is over 2000 years old. She mentioned that, while wine is of course still hugely popular in Italy, per capita consumption is down and that, in total, more Italian wine is consumed in the US than in Italy.

She then went to introduce the wineries and the individuals representing them. For the most part, the wineries were all family-owned and the representative was a family member.

The seven wines we tasted, while being educated by the representatives of the wineries, were:

Kobrand

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wine #1. The first wine, as indicated, was a Pinot Grigio, and the only white wine we tasted. It was much more complex and flavorful than that mass produced one that is so popular.

Website: www.pighin.com

Winery representative: Roberto Pighin

Region: Friuli-Venezia Giulia

100% Pinot Grigio

13% alcohol

Suggested retail price: $24.99

 

Wine #2. This wine was 100% Nebbiolo and had been barrel aged for two years with an additional  15-16 months of bottle age before release.

Website: www.chiarlo.it

Winery representative: Alberto Chiarlo

Region: Piedmont / Barolo

100% Nebbiolo

14% alcohol

Suggested retail price: $102.99

Wine #3. This was the last Italian varietal until #7. (#4, #5 and #6 are Super Tuscans, a term given to Italian wines made with French Bordeaux varietals.) I wish California Sangiovese could taste like this.

Website: www.tenutenardi.com

Winery representative: Emilia Nardi

Region: Tuscany / Montalcino

100% Sangiovese Grosso

14% alcohol

Suggested retail price: $106.99

 

Wine #4. As I mentioned above, we are in Super Tuscan territory now. Actually, this winery pioneered Super Tuscans, having first produced this wine in 1968.

Website: www.sassicaia.com

Winery representative: Piero Incisa della Rocchetta

Region: Tuscany / Bolgheri

85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc

13.45% alcohol

Suggested retail price: $225.99

 

Wine #5. This might have been my favorite wine of the day, maybe because I found it to be the most “California” in style. I know I am showing my own geographic prejudice here, but so be it. Although, see #7 below.

Website: www.tenutefolonari.com

Winery representative: Giovanni Folonari

Region: Tuscany / Chianti

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

15% alcohol

Suggested retail price: $85.99

 

Wine #6. A classic Bordeaux style blend from Italy.

Website: www.tenutasettteponti.it

Winery representative: Giovanna Moretti

Region: Tuscany

Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot

14.5% alcohol

Suggested retail price: $110.99

 

Wine #7. Back to Italian varietals to end the seminar with a great flourish. Amarone is made with dried grapes, and the flavors were intense. Tied with #5 for my favorite.

Website: www.masi.it

Winery representative: Raffaele Boscaini

Region: Veneto

75% Corvina, 20% Rondinella and 5% Molinara

16% alcohol

Suggested retail price: $174.99

 

This was definitely a great way to learn more about Italian wines. Sometimes, it is a good idea to venture out of your comfort zone.

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. (2013 Update: Eve and Michael announced Eve Wine 101 Consulting. Info is here: http://evewine101.com/press-releases/) Michael can be contacted at michaelthezinfan@aol.com.

Are Super Tuscans Within Your Reach? by Gregory Alonzo

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Toscana is arguably Italy’s most renown wine region. It is also the homeland of antiquity’s Etruscans, who in turn, greatly influenced the Romans and their culture. Tuscany is rich in history, culture, art, and scenic landscapes that are filled with rolling hills and some of the world’s finest vineyards. Tuscany is not only the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance; it is the home of the prestigious “Super Tuscan” wines.

So what exactly is a “Super Tuscan?” The primary characteristic is that these wines must adhere to a minimum of 85% of grapes grown in Tuscany. It is also important to note that the local vintners oftentimes do not use Sangiovese as the dominant varietal. Bordeaux grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are popular choices. The wines are made in the international style and aged in new French oak barriques. The finished wines are filled with plenty of robust fruit, and lose none of their Italian soul. Due to their strong acidity, Super Tuscans are better served with food.
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Tignanello, Solaia, Magari, Ornellaia, Picconero, and my personal favorite, Sassicaia, produce some of the most notable and expensive wines.

Today I am joined by my very special friend and fellow sommelier, Serena Dutto. We are in the historic city of Siena, at the Plaza del Campo. It is a warm summer day and we are thankful for the shade provided by the ominous Torre del angio (Mangia Tower) that is looming above.

“Grigorio,” Serena called for my attention. “I have some wonderful surprises for you today.”

“You never fail me,” I replied evenly. “This is why I love working and spending time with you.”

ORNELLAIA-SERRE-NUOVE-075L_SCONTORNATA-21“I know that in the States, most Super Tuscans are priced at $200 and above,” Serena paused to collect her thoughts.” I have selected some memorable wines that are all priced at around $50 a bottle.”

Can’t afford the famed Ornellaia at $200 per bottle? Then go with the next best option, Le Serre  Nuove. This is Tenuta dell’ Ornellaia’s second label. Serena selected a Le Serre Nuove Bolgheri 2005. This dark reddish purple wine combines the smooth juicy plum fruit of Merlot (40%) and the structure, cassis, herbal notes of Cabernet Sauvignon (40%).  The remainder is 15% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. This is a full-bodied wine that is supple and fresh on the palate. The alcohol content is 13.5% with a price tag of $55.

“This wine is rich in tannins and will pair nicely with the heartiest of red meats,” Serena nodded in assurance.

“Definitely a Tuscan take on a classic Bordeaux.”

Our next selection, Villa di Capezzana, Ghiale della Furbe 1998 hails from the Carmigano district, a relatively small area just outside of Florence. This wine is a wonderful example of a Bordeaux style wine. It is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 20% Syrah. What makes this wine exceptional is that the Bonacossi family was able to combine the fruit and roundness of Cabernet Sauvignon, with the elegance and suppleness of Merlot and Syrah. In color, it is a deep ruby red with purple hues.  This nose is filled with an array of cassis, black cherries, sage, and chocolate. This is definitely a full-bodied wine that is abundant in formidable tannins.
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The alcohol content is 14% with a price tag of $55.CA106

“A fantastic wine,” Serena’s eyes sparkled as she smiled. “I often enjoy this wine with meals.”

“I would definitely say that this is a wine worthy of aging.”

“Half a case for now, and lay down the other 6 bottles,” Serena flashed me an almost mischievous grin.

Our next selection, Gaja Ca’Marcmanda Promis 2006 hails from Tuscany’s coastal district of Maremma. Over the years, the Gaja name has become synonymous with producing elegant and opulent wines. Our wine proved to be up to Gaja’s stringent standards. The 2006 consists of 55% Merlot, 35% Syrah, and 10% Sangiovese. On the eye it is a deep dark red. The nose is filled with generous amounts of dark ripe fruit. This is a wine of quality. On the palate, it is well textured and balanced. The overall experience is one of grandeur without paying a king’s ransom. The alcohol content is 13.5% with a price tag of $50.

Gaja Ca'marcanda Promis“Gaja built their reputation producing lovely wines from Piedmont before expanding into Tuscany,” Serena was quick to add.”

“They definitely found the mark with this one,” I flashed Serena an even grin. Overall, I find this to be a most delightful and elegant wine.

“I am pleased that you enjoyed today’s Super Tuscans,” Serena smiled broadly. “I think for our next tasting we should share with our readers more of these great wines, yet with an emphasis on Sangiovese based blends.”

“Agreed,” I gave her my nod of approval. “I am, after all, rather fond of Sangiovese … But that my friends is another story.”