Eve's Wine 101

Vintage Eve Circa Nov. 2012: The Wines from Beni di Batasiolo

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I didn’t know much about the Beni Di Batasiolo family-owned winery “in the heart of Barolo” until I saw a full page ad in Tasting Panel magazine listing six of their wines that have received 90 points or higher in ratings by Tasting Panel, Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast magazines. So, suffice it to say, I was enthusiastic about reviewing the three samples I had received. Not to compare myself with the big guns, I left off rating numbers and will give you my tasting notes alone:32

‘11 Cortese Gavi (100%) Hillsides

12.5% alcohol

I was greeted by a color of clear pale hay with a thin band of lemon on the edge. On the nose I got lemon-lime, pear, unsweetened butter, kiwi and ripe green apple. The taste delivered a nice viscosity over my mouth, a crisp acidity that made my taste buds stand up and take notice but didn’t dry my mouth, followed by the fruit-salad flavors of orange, lime, grapefruit and a bit of pineapple lingering in for a long finish.

Would like to try this wine again with a cold seafood salad, hummus and chips or Chinese food.

This elegant, fine white wine is made from Cortese grapes grown in the specific area of the village of Gavi. It stands out for …http://www.batasiolo.com/eng/

‘09 Sovrana Barbera d’Alba (100%)

14% alcohol

A lovely ruby red color that stretched out to a garnet edge was followed by aromas of black cherry, plum, mint, mushroom, earth, green bell pepper and the palest hint of cigar. The taste was bright red fruits, white pepper, pale tannins and a short finish. As I didn’t decant, I gave myself a full pour to try in 20 minutes and found…the fruit opened up and increased the length to a much longer finish.

The area of production of this wine extends over the hills of the Langhe in the Barolo wine-growing area…http://www.batasiolo.com/eng/

‘07 Barolo (100% Nebbiolo)

15% alcohol

Starting with a golden garnet color, this Barolo had nuances of blackberry, blueberry, black pepper, satiny chocolate and black olives on the nose that just coaxed me in to a taste. I got nice tannins, red fruits, pepper, a delicate dryness, stewed mushrooms, blackened game, toasted oak, smoke, tobacco and a medium length on the finish.

This wine is made from Nebbiolo grapes grown on the slopes of the Barolo wine-making area, which is formed by eleven villages all located on the lower spurs of the Langhe…http://www.batasiolo.com/eng/

Editor’s Note – this is a FOND memory: Last Thursday our editor, Michael Perlis, had an idea of a fundraiser for the victims of Hurricane Sunday. By Friday we met with the owner of the restaurant Cheers@All Corked Up for our venue and enlisted the help of the same people that helped us with a fundraiser for Haiti, the owners of All Corked Up wine storage.

Remember “Pour into Haiti”? Now we are asking your help at “Pour into Sandy” on 11/14. 100 per cent of the ticket sales, $25 at the door (reserve yours: 661-259-2000) and wine auction go directly to the American Red Cross. If you cannot attend, but would like to donate wine email me: eve@evewine101.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vintage Eve: The 15 Most Influential Wine Men in My Life – 2011 Edition Part One

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Instead of reflecting on last year’s favorite wines, or making any pesky wine resolutions, this article, one of the first for Beaconeers in 2012 is my 15-member list (alphabetical, and not in order of importance) of men that have contributed to my wine education in 2011.

I prompt you to start working on your own list if you are like me, and continually strive to learn more about that heavenly elixir we call wine. And, feel free to steal my contacts, as most of these wonderful men are on Facebook:

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Eve and Ian Blackburn

  1. Ian Blackburn, CSW, JWE – Founder of LearnAboutWine.com, established in 1995. Ian is studying for the Master of Wine and drinks wine for a living.   LearnAboutWine focuses on the best quality events and classes, and a wine credential program that has graduated over 300 wine students in the last 3 years with a Junior Wine Executive credential (JWE).  In 2011 Ian released his own wine called www.Beekeepercellars.com and in 2012 – WineCloudInc.com – debuts with a online wine store that provides education with your wine purchase.  Focused on smaller artisan producers and limited production collectables that put you “in the know.”  Ian has invited me to many events as press where I’ve had a great opportunity to: Learn About Wine via http://www.winela.com
  1. Anthony Dias Blue is a James Beard Award-winning wine and food writer, and Editor-In-Chief of The Tasting Panel Magazine. He is also Executive Director of the SAN FRANCISCO WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION and the SAN FRANCISCO INTERNATIONAL WINE COMPETITION. Not only do I get a monthly dose of news on spirits and wines from Tasting Panel magazine, I’m also lucky enough to be included in several media tastings a year – further educating my palate. http://www.TastingPanelMag.com
  1. The Husband, Eddie Bushman, has tirelessly kept our wine cellar well stocked –the key hidden – and my wine glass full of irreplaceable memories.
  1. Chef Lance Cowart has kindly allowed me to lift any and all recipes he has with wine as an ingredient for my website. His Facebook group, which you can join, is called “Turn Up the Heat – Men That Love To Cook and Women That Love Men That Cook.” Lance says, “I love cooking. I cook all the time when I can. Yes I am that guy. I love to turn up the heat in my kitchen.” https://www.facebook.com/groups/Theat
  1. Tim DeLuca is my oldest wine friend. He works in the TV industry, and one year invited me to an Emmy dinner. Once seated at a large table with people I didn’t know, Tim broke the ice by suggesting I choose the wine for the table. Don’t recall what the wine was, but the table approved my selection, and it was the perfect “ice breaker”. Tim also started giving me Wine Spectator subscriptions maybe 20 years ago. When he used the word “flabby” to describe a wine I scoffed, later, after some time and reading, I learned how to use the word myself.
  1. Dr. Joel Fisher, founder of the LA Wine Fest, and our new SCV Wine Fest, has kept me educated via his events. Fisher draws on decades of knowledge garnered from his many associations: writing for the Culinary Connection of the Chefs de Cuisine Association of California, the Beverly Hills Courier and the Underground Wine Letter; teaching at Cordon Bleu in Pasadena, wine instruction for the Culinary Arts Department of the Art Institute of California, Los Angeles, as a sommelier for the Escoffier Association of Southern California, a member of The Tasting Panel (formerly the Bon Appetit Tasting Panel) and as a Wine Host for CRN’s What’s Cooking Show….just to name a few. http://www.LAWineFest.com
  1. Our latest contributor on the Eve’s Wine 101 site, brought in by Contributing Editor Mike Perlis, Rick Fraga, provides me (and you) a wealth of knowledge: he currently performs wine education, hospitality and sales for Martinelli Winery, writes his blog, and works full time at following his passion for wine.  His experience – over the last 20 years – includes working for a number wineries in Sonoma and Mendocino Counties.  Additionally, after adding educational background in Wine Business, Marketing, Evaluation and Service at Santa Rosa JC, he continues to work with the Wine Studies program at the JC as a guest speaker and a member of the Wine Studies Department Advisory Committee.  Read more about Rick on his site, http://www.GatewayToWine.com
  1. “Chef” Mike Fraschilla is noted among friends, family, and acquaintances to be “The Passionate Advocate” for wine, beer, spirits, food, and most matters considered to live La Dolce Vita! Mike has over 20-years experience as collector, caterer, promoter, consultant, educator, and pundit in matters relating to the food & beverage industry. I met Mike via Facebook, and later, in a dark parking lot…to buy from his allocation of Robert Mondavi reserves. And lucky for us, he has become a frequent contributor in my blog. He welcomes questions, comments and critiques and can be reached through email at: askchefmike@hotmail.com

Nearing the end of my column’s normal length, and not wanting to edit out any of the accomplishments of my top 15…tune into the Beacon next Friday for numbers 9 and beyond.

Vintage Eve Circa 10/2011: The Gift of Shai Wine

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Shawn Shai Halahmy is a pal, and like other winemaking pals, I forget what came first, a love for their wine that developed into a friendship, or if we became friends before I tried his wine. Actually, I’m going with the former…wine does make the heart grow fonder, eh?

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Shai Cellars

08 Adome

Santa Ynez Valley

65% Syrah, 35 % Cabernet Sauvignon

14.6% alcohol

230 Cases

Starting from notes on the appearance, the cork was in good condition, clean, lots of legs danced on my glass, with a dark ruby color tipped in pale magenta. The aromas I detected ran the gamut with a blast of rich plums, cherry and a hint of raspberry through to black pepper and mild astringency. Once the wine hit my mouth I got beautiful, dark, balanced fruit, tannins, enough jamminess to spread on toast or serve with dark chocolate, steak or a burger. Ending with taste bud-loving spice on the back palate and a mid-length finish. Drink now, drink later, whatever, just drink it.

90 Eve Points…was my first thought but with 91 points from The Tasting Panel Magazine in their December 2010 issue, who am I to argue? Love the mag, love the wine, not a problem there. 91 Eve Loving Points.

So what’s next for Shawn:

Yes, exciting news from Shai Cellars…

In June of 2010 I bottled my 2nd vintage of wines. Yes wine(s)… My 2009 Adome, same blend as the 08, though a different wine, and maybe better in some ways than the 08. I’m going to wait a bit to release this. It can use some time in the bottle. (225 cases)

And a new wine, my 09 Grenache. Only 100 cases produced of this delicious wine. Great fruit, great balance, and with the right food it’s like bliss in your mouth. Available now.

Contact me direct to get your hands on some Shai…

Shai Cellars

http://shaicellars.com

2016 International Chardonnay Symposium Celebrates the World’s Favorite Grape

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California’s Central Coast hosts a global celebration of Chardonnay

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

1496044_10152146587835129_1371476224_oA sampling of panel discussions include:

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

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

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

About The International Chardonnay Symposium

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To view the full agenda, visit WomenOfTheVine.com.

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

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

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

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

 

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

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New quarterly magazine debuting fall 2015 features everything good that grows

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

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

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

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

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

Recurring columns include:

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

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

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

 

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

Special features in the inaugural Fall issue to include:

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

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

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

 

Chef highlights:

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

  • Duskie Estes of ZaZu in Sebastopol

  • Spotlight on NY Chefs

  • Spotlight on Sacramento Chefs

  • Unique Trends Report from Washington State Chefs

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

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

About The Clever Root:

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

The Chardonnay Symposium Goes International

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California’s Central Coast hosts a globe-trotting celebration of the world’s favorite grape

April 02, 2015 (Pismo Beach, Calif) –The world’s foremost gathering of Chardonnay producers, The International Chardonnay Symposium (thechardonnaysymposium.com) will feature top global Chardonnay winemakers during this year’s events, May 28-30, 2015 at The Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa (thedolphinbay.com) and The Cliffs Resort (cliffsresort.com) in Pismo Beach, California.

A sampling of panel discussions includes:

  • Hanzell Vineyards and Mount Eden Vineyards Retrospective Tasting, moderated by Fred Dame, MS
  • To Oak Or Not To Oak?: Exploring Chardonnay as the Chameleon of Vitis Vinifera, moderated by Brian McClintic, MS, Proprietor of Les Marchands Wine Bar & Merchant, Santa Barbara, CA
  • Diversity in Balance:  Pairing Chardonnay and Food, moderated by Bob Bath, MS, Wine Instructor for the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, Napa, CA
  • The Fashion of Chardonnay: Examining winemakers’ stylistic influence on Chardonnay, moderated by Nicholas Miller, Bien Nacido Vineyards, Santa Maria, CA

11r905uAdditional events include a Vintners’ Wine Tech Symposium, artisanal sausage and Chardonnay pairings, Sommelier Chardonnay Challenge, two Grand Tastings and La Paulée Dinner and Awards Ceremony. To learn about participation in these events or for tickets, please visit thechardonnaysymposium.com.

About The International Chardonnay Symposium

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

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

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

 

SOMMELIER JOURNAL WILL BE REVIVED

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Industry Veteran Acquires Publication and Expands Reach

In a move to stabilize and invigorate one of the nation’s top wine industry publications, Publisher / Executive Editor and Owner of TPM Custom Publishing, Meridith May, has announced the acquisition of Sommelier Journal (www.SommelierJournal.com). “Sommelier Journal is an authoritative, highly-respected guide written by wine professionals for wine professionals,” said May. “We couldn’t be more delighted to take this esteemed publication to the next level.
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image001Devotees of Sommelier Journal had been saddened to read that the publication would be suspending operations as of October 25, 2013. Since the acquisition by TPM Custom Publishing, the journal has been rebranded as The SOMM Journal, and will include a core of wine industry contributors. “The SOMM Journal’s new editorial board will be comprised of internationally-renowned wine writers, sommeliers and authorities, including Anthony Dias Blue as Editor-in-Chief, David Gadd as Managing Editor, and a team of top wine and hospitality industry writers. I’m certain we can bring The SOMM Journal to a new level,” said May.

While Sommelier Journal Founder, David Vogels, will act as Consulting Editor and the publication will align with top wine associations and educators throughout the U.S., the content for The SOMM JOURNAL will broaden to include more coverage of artisan spirits, coffee, tea and food trends.

“The SOMM Journal will be a true hospitality industry publication,” offered May, citing the journal’s academic angle and close working relationship with educational institutions. “In its new informative yet entertaining format, the magazine will speak to future working chefs, restaurateurs, retailers, mixologists and wine professionals as much as it does to those already in the industry.”

The SOMM Journal website will be redesigned for increased user-friendliness and mobile access in the first quarter of 2014. The first issue of the refreshed publication will be distributed in Spring of 2014.

As Publisher / Executive Editor of THE TASTING PANEL magazine since 2007, May has been acclaimed for growing the publication into the most widely circulated trade publication in the beverage industry, reaching an audience of more than 100,000 key decision-makers every month, and growing on an international scale.

For more information on the new SOMM Journal, please contact Meridith May at mmay@tastingpanelmag.com. The SOMM Journal is headquartered at 17203 Ventura Blvd., Suite 5 in Encino, CA, 91316.