Eve's Wine 101

New AVA Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon becomes the 11th nested AVA in the Willamette Valley

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PORTLAND, ORE. (PRWEB) – Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon, the newest appellation in Oregon and nested American Viticultural Area (AVA) in the Willamette Valley, has received federal recognition as an official AVA. Drawn to reflect distinct soil, topography and climate attributes, Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon AVA becomes the 23rd federally recognized winegrowing region in Oregon and the 11th nested AVA within the Willamette Valley. The new nested AVA was granted approval by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) on June 3, 2022 and took effect on July 5, 2022.

Located in Polk County, the Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon AVA is characterized by the warmth of the nearby Willamette River, the mild influence of the Van Duzer winds, and the rain shadow of Laurel Mountain to the west. It is the Valley’s second smallest AVA at 584 planted acres but one of its most densely planted. Mount Pisgah was formed 65 million years ago as a sea floor volcano, and has since been covered by marine sediment which pushed up out of the ocean. This unique geology allows the grapes to develop a deep complexity in the region’s shallow soils.

Five years ago, Brad Ford of Illahe Vineyards petitioned the TTB for the addition of the AVA to the wine country map. Ten vineyards and three wineries join the new Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon AVA. A full list of wineries and vineyards can be found below.

“Thanks to an excellent group of growers who helped identify the most important aspects of our little mountain, I have no doubt we will continue to work together to build a beautiful destination for people willing to go the extra mile,” said Ford.

The most common grape varieties in the AVA are Pinot noir, Pinot gris, Pinot blanc, Chardonnay and Tempranillo. Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon AVA is located 15 miles west of Salem, Oregon, and is the second most southern nested AVA within the Willamette Valley AVA, next to Lower Long Tom, which was newly established in November 2021.

“Recognition of Mount Pisgah, Polk County, shows again how we continue to learn about, and appreciate, new areas of viticultural distinction in Oregon. Each one adds its own chapter to Oregon’s story of unique soils, unmatched geology, topography and globally recognized wine quality” said Oregon Wine Board President Tom Danowski. “These federal AVA designations take years to achieve as the standards are rigorous for establishing a region as clearly differentiated.”

“We’re so excited to see Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon AVA recognized in the larger story of the Willamette Valley,” said Morgen McLaughlin, executive director of the Willamette Valley Wineries Association. “The region’s kingpin varietal, Pinot noir, is such an expressive grape: it insists on telling you where it’s from. Both the industry and consumers who look to Oregon for its one-of-a-kind appellations and the sense of place in Oregon’s wines can celebrate the addition of Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon.”

To differentiate from another “Mount Pisgah” in Oregon’s Lane County, it was necessary for the AVA to be named Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon––now the second longest named AVA in Oregon after The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater AVA, approved in 2015 and nested in the Walla Walla Valley AVA. Oregon is home to 995 wineries and 1,370 vineyards planted, generating an annual economic impact of $7.2 billion for the state.

Images of the new AVA can be found in the folder here

Mount Pisgah, Polk County, Oregon AVA:
Details
Official date of recognition: June 3, 2022
Final rule is effective: July 5, 2022
Total acreage: 5,530
Planted acreage: 584
Number of wineries: 3
Number of vineyards: 10
Varieties: Pinot noir, Chardonnay, Pinot gris, Tempranillo and Pinot blanc
Soil: Marine Sedimentary

Wineries
Illahe Vineyards
Open Claim Vineyards
Amelie Robert Estate

Vineyards*
Illahe Vineyards
Ash Creek Vineyards
Open Claim Vineyards
Erratic Oaks Vineyard
Freedom Hill Vineyard
Croft Vineyards
Fern Creek
Amelie Robert Estate
Mistletoe Vineyards
Cooper Hollow

*The wineries above are located on an estate vineyard.

About the Oregon Wine Board
The Oregon Wine Board is a semi-independent Oregon state agency managing marketing, research, communications, and education initiatives that support and advance the Oregon wine and wine grape industry. The Board works on behalf of all Oregon wineries and independent growers throughout the state’s diverse winegrowing regions. Visit oregonwine.org

About the Willamette Valley Wineries Association
The WVWA is a nonprofit industry association dedicated to achieving recognition for Oregon’s acclaimed Willamette Valley as a premium Pinot noir-producing region. The WVWA has more than 230 members representing wineries, tasting rooms and vineyards throughout the Willamette Valley. The organization also hosts Willamette: The Pinot Noir Auction, Oregon Pinot Camp, Pinot in the City, May in Wine Country, The Giving Season and the Cellar Season. Visit http://www.willamettewines.com for more info.

ABADÍA RETUERTA LEDOMAINE CELEBRATES ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY

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5th June 2022, Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine brought together friends and other esteemed guests for a special dinner to commemorate the hotel’s tenth anniversary.

It was a perfect moment to reflect on some of the highlights of their first decade in business.

RENOWNED HOSPITALITY

From the outset, the aim of Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine was to be able to invite guests to its striking enclave. Today, it is synonymous with unrivalled hospitality, authenticity and excellence in its treatment of guests and visitors, thanks to its butler service.

Amid an estate that spans 700 hectares, with a breathtaking 12th-century monastery, Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine has become a must-visit for all those longing to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is ideal for those who wish to reconnect with nature, in a place where they can enjoy local and avant-garde cuisine, unwind in the Santuario Wellness&Spa, and revel in the estate’s exclusive, world-class wines.

This five-star hotel measures 8000 m2, and it has thirty luxurious bedrooms, three of which are suites. The rooms are all exquisitely decorated, and they overlook a rippling sea of vineyards, providing the tranquillity and privacy that guests need.

Since 2020, Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine has been included in the exclusive list of Leading Hotels of the World.

IMPECCABLE, PRIZEWINNING GASTRONOMY

The cuisine offered by Abadía Retuerta is a true spectacle for the senses, and is sure to impress all those who visit. Its gastronomy has garnered numerous awards, most notably from the Michelin Guide and the Repsol Guide. The estate has four distinct eateries, each with a unique and surprising menu.

The estate’s flagship restaurant is Refectorio, which has held a Michelin Star since 2014, a Green Star since 2020, as well as two Repsol Suns. Under the guidance of head chef Marc Segarra, its menu is deeply rooted in the surrounding lands: Segarra uses locally sourced produce to capture the essence of the region and pay tribute to its people. He proudly showcases produce from over 50 local suppliers and 30 towns and villages, from all nine provinces of Castilla y León.

Vinoteca, Calicata Terroir Bar, Jardín del Claustro (the Cloister Garden) and Pool Bar (the latter two of which only open in summer) round off the resort’s offering for foodies. In all of them, the guiding philosophy is a focus on high-quality local and seasonal food.

AN ETHICAL, SUSTAINABLE ATMOSPHERE

All those who choose Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine can feel safe in the knowledge that they are supporting a business that believes in sustainability, that looks after the environment, makes use of natural resources in an ethical way, and seeks to boost the local economy. This haven of experiences was awarded Green Globe certification in late 2021, proving its credentials as one of the most sustainable resorts in the world. A mere 650 hotels have been granted this endorsement, only four of which are in Spain.

One of its key projects with regards to sustainability is the Monks’ Vegetable Garden. This allotment spans 1200 m2 and sits on the banks of the River Duero, exactly where the monks used to grow their own produce centuries ago. The crops are cultivated with traditional methods, under the philosophy of biodynamics. This garden has become the natural pantry for all of the hotel’s restaurants, providing them with superb seasonal produce. With this project, Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine once again proves its commitment to the local, as well as respecting nature and its seasons.

A LONG TRADITION OF WINEMAKING

With over 30 years of history and a winemaking tradition dating back more than eight centuries, Abadía Retuerta finds its true essence and raison d’être in its single-plot Pago wine, which reflects all the personality and uniqueness of the local terroir. The abbey’s monks were the first to grow grapes and make wine on this site, right on the banks of the Duero, with its long tradition of winemaking. Today, the winery is perfectly integrated into the stunning surroundings, and Abadía Retuerta is one of the most renowned wine producers in the area.

The estate spans 700 hectares, and its vineyards are divided into distinct plots or “pagos”: there is the Pago Negralada (100% Tempranillo); Pago Valdebellón (100% Cabernet Sauvingnon); Pago Garduña (100% Syrah) and Petit Verdot (100% Petit Verdot).

Abadía Retuerta is one of the most innovative and technologically advanced wineries in Europe. Designed by French wine expert Pascal Delbeck, its current consultant, and aided by the viticulturist and wine expert Ángel Anocíbar, it was one of the first facilities in Spain to move wine using gravity alone. Its system for lifting tanks with cranes, as well as its own patented system for transferring wine, are particularly noteworthy.

The estate’s unique wines have won numerous prizes and awards. For instance, Abadía Retuerta Selección Especial 2001 won the prize for Best Red Wine in the World – Red Wine Trophy, at the 2005 International Wine Challenge in London (Wine Magazine, UK).

UNWIND AT SANTUARIO WELLNESS & SPA

A true oasis, right at the heart of nature. Santuario Wellness & Spa was opened in 2015, as a haven of wellbeing. It is built into an underground space where the abbey’s stables used to be, while several openings ensure 80% natural light, making a warm and cosy environment. It measures over 1000 m2, and its water is extracted from a well at a depth of 120 metres, before being decalcified and, after undergoing reverse osmosis, stored in a 120,000-litre tank, thereby providing a quality of drinking water similar to natural mineral water.

Santuario Wellness & Spa strives to innovate: it has its own Spa Sommelier, who designs a tailor-made experience that matches guests’ physical and emotional needs and expectations. The philosophy is based on traditional Tibetan medicine and its key elements, namely wind, fire, earth and air.

One of the exclusive holistic experiences, as offered by Santuario LeDomaine Wellness & Spa since 2020, is the session with Tibetan Singing Bowls, as part of the Balancing Ritual VibraHealing®. This rounded experience focuses on relaxation and reaching a state of balance in both body and mind.

A TASTE FOR ART

Fine art is important to Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine. The estate has its own open-air museum, by the German sculptor Ulrich Rückriem, as well as a private collection with over 170 works. These pieces range from the 12th to the 21st century, by artists including Palma il Giovane, Guardi, Panini, Joan Miró and Rückriem. There are also French tapestries, antique Spanish furniture, paintings, sculptures, reliefs and rugs. One of the latest additions to the collection is ‘Rumor de Límites V’ (1959) by Eduardo Chillida, a unique piece sculpted in steel, which is currently on loan to the Museo San Telmo in San Sebastián. In its place, guests can contemplate ‘Lotura’ in the Jardín de Hospedería, also by Chillida. Furthermore, in 2021, a new artists’ residency project was launched, in which national and international artists are invited to live and work at the resort. The first guest artist was Abderrahim Yamou (Casablanca, 1959).

The ancient Abbey of Santa María de Retuerta has become much more than a hotel and winery. It is a project that strives to uphold and enhance a legacy that goes back over nine centuries, with a sense of responsibility and generosity. This commitment to sharing the estate’s heritage with today’s generations, and ensuring that it lives on into the future, is the reason why Abadía Retuerta seeks to add ever more value to its own history. This is done by fostering creativity right now, in the 21st century, and this can be seen in its gastronomy, winemaking and genuine engagement with art. A year ago, a new art project was launched with the aim of getting more out of the existing collection, and further expanding it. A fundamental aspect of this project is to collaborate with other cultural agents, understanding culture here as a vital social driving force that can lead to brighter futures.

AWARDS

Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine has received multiple accolades in the field of luxury and sustainable experiences. The most recent one is the Green Globe certification, which endorses this resort as one of the most sustainable in the world, thanks to the environmentally-friendly policies brought in over the years. Abadía Retuerta also featured in Travellers’ Choice 2021, by Trip Advisor, based on the exceptional reviews and opinions submitted to the travel platform over the past year. With this honour, Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine is deemed to be one of the best hotels in the world.

The hotel also won the 2021 “Best Wine Tourism Experience” from the International Wine Challenge, as well as the LHW Membership Award 2021 as “Best Hotel for Remarkable Experiences”, according to Leading Hotels of The World, the exclusive list of over 400 luxury destinations in 80 countries. Other awards include the Trip Advisor certificate of excellence, granted for the fifth year running; the Best Wine Tourism Management Award, presented at the 12th Edition of the Wine Markets and Distribution Business Awards in 2018; and the 2018 CN Traveler Award in the category of Best Hotel for Getaways in Spain. In 2019, the CN Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards voted Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine as Best Hotel #2 in Spain and Portugal. It was also chosen, in 2019, as the Best Luxury Hotel in Spain by the Luxury Lifestyle Awards.

The New York Times commended Abadía Retuerta as a must-visit destination, naming it one of its 52 places to go in 2018. Furthermore, TripAdvisor users chose it as the Best Hotel in Spain, 2018. In 2017, it was named Hideaway of the Year in the distinguished annual Andrew Harper awards and Best Hotel in Spain and Portugal at the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards. Tatler Travel Guide selected it as one of the 101 best hotels in the world, and The Telegraph 50 as one of the best hotels in Spain for spring and summer.

Another noteworthy recognition was the Equality between Women and Men in the Workplace award by Óptima Castilla y León. Similarly, the Valladolid Provincial Council granted Abadía Retuerta the Equality between Women and Men in the Workplace, business category award.

In late 2019, the Spanish Wine Federation (FEV) awarded Abadía Retuerta the certification of Wineries for Climate Protection (WfCP), which has since been renewed in 2020. This recognises Abadía Retuerta’s commitment to sustainable development and the environment, with only 31 wineries having been awarded this certification in Spain.

ABOUT ABADÍA RETUERTA

Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine is located less than a two-hours’ drive from the Spanish capital, Madrid, in the heart of the Duero Valley, on the outskirts of Sardón de Duero (Valladolid). It is home to a 5-star hotel and a world-class winery, set in the grounds of a 12th-century monastery originally founded by the Premonstratensian Order in Spain. The estate spans 700 hectares (including 200 hectares of vineyards), while the hotel itself is 8000 m2, with 30 exclusive rooms (27 double rooms and three suites), eight of which are located in the old stables. It also offers a full butler service.

The resort offers a wide range of experiences, related to wine, gastronomy, nature, art and wellbeing. Its flagship restaurant, Refectorio, holds a Michelin Star, a Green Star and two Repsol Suns, and the estate now also has Green Globe certification, proving its credentials as one of the most sustainable resorts in the world. Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine is the ideal destination for unwinding in the name of wellness, or where business and pleasure can come together. The estate’s winery is one of the most innovative in Europe, and its wine has won international accolades, even being featured in Wine Spectator’s list of the “100 Best Wines in the World”.

South Coast and Carter Estate Wineries Earn More Wine Medals

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TEMECULA, Calif. – South Coast Winery and Carter Estate Winery, owned by the Carter family, are the proud recipients of a total of 16 esteemed winning medals at the renowned Toast of the Coast Wine Competition produced by the San Diego County Fair, which takes place annually at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in Del Mar, Calif. The competition celebrates wineries from around the world producing the finest quality wines. Judging by 18 wine-credentialed judges, including winemakers, wine journalists, consultants, educators, hospitality proprietors, sommeliers and wine directors, took place on March 26 and 27, and close to 500 winners were posted on April 8.

“The Toast of the Coast Competition is always a most worthwhile wine judging arena for the fruitful labors of our Temucula-based master winemakers Jon McPherson, Javier Flores and their dedicated team,” said Jeff Carter, president of Carter Hospitality. “South Coast Winery’s Double Gold placements for Meritage 2017 and Grenache Blanc 2020 and Carter Estate Winery’s Double Gold for its Daybreak with bottling in 2022 are accomplishments we are especially proud of achieving.”

South Coast Winery Toast of the Coast 2022 Winners:

Ø  Meritage 2017, Double Gold, 94 points

Ø  Grenache Blanc 2020, Double Gold, 94 points

Ø  Verdelho 2020, Gold, 92 points

Ø  Maverick, 2017, Gold, 91 points

Ø  Sauvignon Blanc 2019, Gold, 91 points

Ø  Sangiovese 2017, Gold, 90 points

Ø  Late Harvest Gewurztraminer 2020, Gold, 90 points

Ø  20th Anniversary 2018, Silver

Ø  Chardonnay Sans Chene 2020, Silver

Ø  Pinot Blanc 2020, Silver

Ø  Pinot Grigio, 2020, Silver

Ø  Big Red Table 6th Edition NV, Silver

Carter Estate Winery Toast of the Coast 2022 Winners:

Ø  Daybreak (2022 bottling) NV, Double Gold, 95 points

Ø  Brut 2015, Silver

Ø  Blanc de Blanc 2015, Silver

Ø  Blanc de Noir 2015, Silver

A list of all winners and additional information is available at thetoastofthecoast.com.

About South Coast Winery Resort & Spa

The only winery among the state’s top wineries to claim the title of California Winery of the Year four times at the California State Fair Wine Competition, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa sets the gold standard for excellence amongst California wineries, earning more than 3,000 awards since its inception in 2003. Situated on 63 lush acres, the resort offers a breathtaking retreat for wine tours, romantic getaways and group events with 132 rooms and villas, a working winery and tasting room, gift shop, full-service spa and restaurant.

South Coast Winery offers a broad portfolio of 45 wine labels, the majority of which are available for sampling in its main tasting room – from robust reds such as Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Petit Syrah, Merlot and Pinot Noir to whites including Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Riesling. Also available are sparkling wines, dessert wines and other specialty offerings. The winery employs a staff of skilled winemakers, including master winemaker Jon McPherson and winemaker Javier Flores, both with decades of experience in the wine industry.

For more information, visit www.southcoastwinery.com.

About Carter Hospitality Group

Established in 2011, Carter Hospitality Group, LLC. is a family-owned hospitality company with four hotels and resorts as well as three wineries across the United States. Based in Orange County, California, the company manages and owns a portfolio of luxury properties including South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, Temecula, California; Carter Estate Winery and Resort, Temecula California; and Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa, Texas Hill Country. Carter Hospitality Group additionally serves as the owner-franchisee for Red Lion Hotel Orlando Lake Buena Vista South, Orlando Florida. For more information, visit www.carterhospitality.com.

South Coast Winery Garners 20 Awards from LA Competition

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Carter Creek Winery Earns 10 More Medals

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JOHNSON CITY, Texas – Carter Hospitality Group is pleased to announce that its Carter Creek Winery in the heart of Texas Hill Country was awarded 10 prestigious awards at the 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition (SFCWC), which took place January 11 to 14 with over 55 industry professionals serving as judges as they evaluated 5,700 wines from more than 1,100 wineries throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The SFCWC is the largest competition in North America and over its 22 years has become one of the world’s most respected wine competitions. Its esteemed judges come from the worlds of winemaking, media, trade, education and restaurant/hospitality industries.

“These awards, including two Best of Class, one Double Gold and two Gold are very important to us and our team, led by veteran winemaker Jon McPherson, as they validate our experience, expertise and dedication to the wines we produce at Carter Creek Winery. We look forward to displaying the awards from the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition in our handsome tasting rooms,” said Jeff Carter, president of Carter Hospitality.

Carter Creek’s vineyards in Texas Hill Country produce varietals especially unique due to the combination of an extremely warm growing season and an early harvest delivering softer, earth-driven wines. The 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition Awards for Carter Creek Winery include Best in Class for NV Dominum Tinto and for NV Sangria. A Double Gold award was given to NV Sparkling, and Golds were earned by 2016 Plateau Red and 2018 Viognier-Roussanne. NV Brut, 2017 Maverick, 2018 Maverick and 2017 Viognier-Roussanne earned Silver designations. A Bronze award was given to 2016 Tempranillo.

Producing award-winning wines since 2016, Carter Creek Winery is a sister winery to Temecula, California’s award-winning South Coast Winery Resort & Spa and Carter Estate Winery and Resort. Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa features 78 luxury villas, a spa, tasting rooms, restaurant, its own onsite microbrewery creating small batch craft beers and an outdoor event center, which features top musical acts.

About Carter Hospitality Group

Established in 2011, Carter Hospitality Group, LLC. is a family-owned hospitality company with four hotels and resorts as well as three wineries across the United States. Based in Orange County, California, the company manages and owns a portfolio of luxury properties including South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, Temecula, California; Carter Estate Winery and Resort, Temecula California; and Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa, Texas Hill Country. Carter Hospitality Group additionally serves as the owner-franchisee for Red Lion Hotel Orlando Lake Buena Vista South, Orlando Florida. For more information, visit www.carterhospitality.com.

Arizona Wines Score Big in San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

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San Francisco, CA. – The San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition (SFCWC) is one of the world’s most highly publicized and well-respected wine competitions of both local and large-scale wineries. A testament to the quality of wines being grown in the state, several of Arizona’s wineries have been chosen as winners in this year’s SFCWC competition.

Photo from Phoenix.org

Arizona has three wine growing regions (Verde Valley, Willcox and Sonoita/Elgin), all of which are designated American Viticultural Areas. In total, there are more than 120 wineries and tasting rooms, many of which grow varietals native to Italy and Southern France. The following wineries placed in the categories below:

  • Callaghan Vineyards:
    • Red Blend: Grenache leading blend – Up to – $29.99
    • Port – Up to – $32.99
    • White Blends – $28.00 and over
    • Cabernet Franc – $30.00 – $39.99
    • Red Blend: Grenache leading blend – $30.00 and over
    • Red Blend: Petite Sirah leading blend.
  • Copper Horse Vineyard:
    • Cabernet Sauvignon – $35.00 – $38.99
  • Four Tails Vineyard:
    • Cabernet Sauvignon – $35.00 – $38.99
    • Petite Sirah – $28.00 – $34.99
    • Viognier – Up to – $26.99
    • Petit Verdot – Up to – $39.99
    • Tempranillo – Up to – $34.99
    • Dry Rosé/Blush Blend – RS 0
  • Golden Rule Vineyards:
    • Red Blend: Sangiovese leading blend
    • Red Blend: Petite Sirah leading blend
    • Aglianico
    • Mourvedre
  • Heart Wood Cellars:
    • Cabernet Sauvignon – $39.00 – $41.99
    • Red Blend: Syrah leading blend – $36.00 and over
    • Tannat
    • All Other Red Varietals
    • Port – $33.00 and over
    • Red Blend: Petite Sirah leading blend
    • Sangiovese – $35.00 and over
    • Tempranillo – $35 and over
    • Dry Rosé/Blush – RS .1 – .299
    • Mourvedre
    • Petite Sirah – $46.00 and over
    • Pinot Noir – $44.00 – $47.99.
  • High Lonesome Vineyard:
    • Malbec – $37.00 and over
    • Tannat
    • All Other Red Varietals
    • Other White Varietals
  • Javelina Leap Vineyard & Winery:
    • Rosé Sparkling
    • Merlot – $27.00-$30.99
    • Petite Sirah – $35.00-$39.99
    • Petite Sirah – $40.00-$45.99
    • Red Blend: Zinfandel leading blend – $25.00 and over
    • Riesling – Dry <.99 RS
    • Sangiovese – Up to $34.99
    • Sauvignon Blanc/Fume – $20.00-$25.99
    • Syrah/Shiraz – $31.00-$34.99
    • Tempranillo – $35 and over
    • Zinfandel – $42.00-$47.99
    • Barbera – Up to $34.99
    • Cabernet Sauvignon – $35.00 – $38.99
    • Dry Rosé/Blush Blend – RS 0
    • Red Blend: Merlot leading blend – $30.00 and over
    • Zinfandel – $32.00-$34.99
  • Jerome Winery:
    • All Other Red Varietals
  • LDV Winery:
    • Petite Sirah – $46.00 and over
    • Petite Sirah – $40.00-$45.99
  • Mogollon Vineyards:
    • Chardonnay – $23.00 – $25.99
    • Red Blend: Syrah leading blend – Up to – $35.99
    • White Blends – $28.00 and over
    • Grenache – Up to – $34.99.
  • Pillsbury Wine Company:
    • Petite Sirah – $46.00 and over
    • Syrah/Shiraz – $44.00 and over
    • Dry/Sweet Rosé/Blush – RS 1.00 and over
    • Grenache – $35.00 and over
    • Malvasia Bianca
    • Red Blend: Mourvedre leading blend
    • White Blends – $22.00 – $27.99
    • Mourvedre
    • Red Blend: Grenache leading blend – $30.00 and over
    • Red Blend: Syrah leading blend – $36.00 and over
    • White Blends – $28.00 and over
    • White Blends – Up to – $21.99
  • Strive Vineyards:
    • Aglianico
    • Cabernet Franc – $30.00-$39.99
    • Dry Rosé/Blush – RS 0
    • Petite Verdot – Up to $39.99
    • Port – $33.00 and over
  • Sultry Cellars:
    • All Other Red Blends: $35.00 and over
  • Tantrum Wines:
    • Chardonnay – $20.00-$22.99
    • Dry/Sweet Rosé/Blush – RS 1.00 and over
    • Red Blend: Petite Sirah leading blend
    • Pinot Noir – $32.00-$35.99
  • Winery 1912:
    • Grenache – Up to – $34.99
    • Albariño
    • Red Blend: Grenache leading blend – $30.00 and over
    • Verdelho
  • Zarpara:
    • All Other Red Varietals
    • Red Blend: Syrah leading blend – Up to – $35.99.

Congratulations to all the winners of this year’s competition! Find out more about Arizona Wines with Arizona’s Wine Trail Passport.

Carter Creek Winery Racks Up 12 Awards at TXIWC

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JOHNSON CITY, Texas – Carter Creek Winery, located in the heart of Texas Hill Country and owned by the Carter Family, accepted 12 awards at one of the largest wine competitions in Texas – the 5th Annual Texas International Wine Competition (TXIWC). The mission of this yearly competition is to highlight Texas as a prominent viticulture and wine-making region while also raising funds for charitable donations for local community organizations.

Entries from six countries and over 11 U.S. states were blind tasted and judged by panels of three or more industry qualified judges – master sommeliers, masters of wine, certified wine educators, enologists, wine writers, professors, beverage directors, buyers and other influencers – all chosen for their vast experience and well-trained palates.

“We are most pleased that 12 of our Texas High Plains wines from Carter Creek Family Winery won distinguished recognition at TXIWC and especially proud our Plateau Red was awarded Best of Class Texas Red,” said Jeff Carter, president of Carter Hospitality, operating company of Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa. “We too, like the organizers of this competition, are passionate about bringing recognition to Texas viticulture and supporting local community causes,” Carter added.

Veteran master winemaker Jon McPherson, who oversees production of Carter Creek’s award-winning wines, points out the winery’s vineyards in Texas Hill Country produce varietals that are especially unique because of the combination of an extremely warm growing season and an early harvest delivering softer, earth driven wines. McPherson likes to talk about the qualities of Best of Class Texas Red winner, Plateau Red, which is a blend of tempranillo, grenache, touriga nacional and tinta cao, showing a very exotic fruit aroma of spiced black cherries and raspberries. He says that Plateau Red is a rich, full-bodied wine due to 18 months of barrel aging and pleases the palate with bold lingering fruit flavors.

The 12 Carter Creek Winery, Texas High Plains award winners include the Best of Class Texas Red, one double gold, two gold and eight silver medals. Award winning wines include:

  • Best of Class Texas Red Wine Blend: Plateau Red, 2016
  • Double Gold Red Wine Blend: Maverick, 2018
  • Gold Medal White Wine Blend: Gloriosa, 2017
  • Gold Medal Red Wine Blend: Maverick, 2017
  • Silver Medal Sparkling White: Brut, NV
  • Silver Medal Dessert, Port: Dominum Tinto, NV
  • Silver Medal Other Flavored Grape Wine: Sangria, NV
  • Silver Medal Sparkling Fruit: Sparkling Peach, NV
  • Silver Medal Red: Tempranillo, 2016
  • Silver Medal White Blend: Plateau White, 2017
  • Silver Medal White Blend: Viognier Roussanne, 2017
  • Silver Medal White Blend: Viognier Roussanne, 2018

Producing award-winning wines since 2016, Carter Creek Winery’s production facilities are in Johnson City along Old Hwy 290 in Texas Hill Country, complementing Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa. Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa features 78 luxury villas, tasting rooms, a restaurant, its own onsite microbrewery creating small batch craft beers and an outdoor event center. It is a counterpart to Temecula, California’s award-winning South Coast Winery Resort & Spa and Carter Estate Winery and Resort.

 About Carter Hospitality Group

Established in 2011, Carter Hospitality Group, LLC. is a family-owned hospitality company with four hotels and resorts as well as three wineries across the United States. Based in Orange County, California, the company manages and owns a portfolio of luxury properties including South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, Temecula, California; Carter Estate Winery and Resort, Temecula California; and Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa, Texas Hill Country. Carter Hospitality Group additionally serves as the owner-franchisee for Red Lion Hotel Orlando Lake Buena Vista South, Orlando Florida. For more information, visit www.carterhospitality.com.

Three Areas to Discover from “Taste the Difference”

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Alella, a small wine district in the north eastern part of Spain centers around the village of the same name just a few miles from the eastern edge of Barcelona. Alella, one of the oldest in the Iberian Peninsula, dates back to the period of the ancient Romans and occupies an area of about 230 hectares in the Maresme and Valles Oriental counties. Alella’s climate is broadly Mediterranean with noticeable variations between vineyard sites due to the orography of the terrain. The economy in the region has been traditionally based on agriculture and shipping, of particular note, viticulture and floriculture account for more than half the production within these sectors.

Winemaking emerged in the Allela area with the Romans in the 1st century AD and was sufficiently acknowledged by AD 77. However, the Romans brought more than just wine to the area, establishing roads to connect their various provinces. During the middle ages the wines of Allela’s region were favored at the Barcelona Cathedral and later became one of the highest quality wines exported to overseas colonies.

The majority of wines emerging from this region are crisp, dry, floral scented whites made from the local grape varieties including Xarel-lo, referred to as Pansa Blanca locally, Garnacha Blanca, Viura, and French varieties such as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Red and rose wines throughout the region are primarily produced with Garnacha Negra as well as Monastrell, Syrah, Garnacha, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Tempranillo. Vines in this region are planted at altitudes anywhere from 195ft (60m) to 800ft (250m) above sea level with older vines growing freely while newer vineyards have been planted on trellises. Alella wines, more than any other, are ingrained in the tradition of the Barcelona table, mainly the reborn and restless Barcelona, that have laid the foundation of today’s great region.

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The campaign “Taste the Difference: Quality Wines from the Heart of Europe” makes you discover Custoza, an Italian Controlled Designation of Origin. This program, managed by the Unione Italiana Vini, the Association of the Italian wine market, and Prodeca, the organism that supports the agri-food sector from the region of Catalunya abroad, aims to promote European PDO and PGI wines in China and US.

This premier appellation from the Italian Veneto region offers quality wines produced from world-renowned native grape varieties such as Garganega, Trebbianello, and Malvasia.

As wine consumption in the US trends toward high acid, lower alcohol wines that offer refreshment and the versatility to accompany various cuisines, Custoza DOC is uniquely positioned for success in the US market. The wines of Custoza DOC are ideal for wine consumers who love time-tested classics, and for those who seek to discover wines of unique character.

The winemakers of Custoza DOC are dedicated to producing wines of remarkable quality for tables around the world. Veneto is a region with a centuries-long history of winemaking – a tradition that’s deeply ingrained within its culture and society. Custoza DOC is a shining example of wines from the Veneto, and an emblem of outstanding Italian viticulture. The Consortium of Custoza DOC is a member of Unione Italiana Vini (UIV), the oldest commercial association representing the Italian wine market.

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Cava: The 2021 vintage will be remembered as the first in which wineries can mention on the labels where it is that the grapes are grown, since new zones and sub-zones approved by the Designation of Origin Regulatory Council came into force. These new regulations mark out three defined production areas: Comtats de Barcelona, Valle del Ebro and Viñedos de Almendralejo, along with seven sub-zones: Valls d’Anoia-Foix, Conca del Gaià, Serra de Mar, Serra de Prades, Pla de Ponent, Alto Ebro and Valle del Cierzo. To guarantee traceability, a new software platform has been set up for this campaign, as part of the digital transformation currently taking place within this Protected Designation of Origin.

The terroir-driven attempt aims to shape the perception of Cava as a wine with a multitude of territorial interpretations: a complex sparkling wine that deserves a year-long attention. This happens in a moment when the US market has become more receptive to the category of sparklings as wines suitable for everyday consumption, and not only reserved for special occasions or holidays celebrations.

A series of events run in the US these past months, including Taste The Difference Grand Tasting taking place on December 9th in New York City, have helped convey this message to trade, press and consumers. Additional tastings have focused on the new regulation to convey both grape sourcing information and minimum ageing time. The new rules establish a distinction between Cava de Guarda, which indicates wines aged for minimum 9 months on the lees, and Cava de Guarda Superior, applicable only to wines aged on the lees for at least 18 months and including under its umbrella the Reserva, Gran Reserva and Cava de Paraje Calificado. The ageing time for the Cava Reserva has also been extended from 15 to 18 months whereas the 30 months ageing requirements for Gran Reserva (30 month)and the 36 months Cava de Paraje Calificado remain unchanged.

The program: European quality wines: taste the difference is a project financed by the European Union and managed by Unione Italiana Vini and PRODECA for the promotion of PDO and PGI European wines abroad in China and US. In order to achieve this objective, the TTD.EU program will organize wine seminars, workshops and b2b meetings both in these countries and in Spain and Italy, inviting wine professionals to join study trips to Europe. The program, realized in the span of three years (2021-2023) aims at creating awareness about European quality wines, in particular Italian and Spanish, which share a long tradition and a high standard of quality.

The beneficiaries: Unione Italiana Vini is the oldest and most commissioned Association of the Italian wine market. It represents cooperative, private and agricultural wine-companies, bottlers, consortia, associations and wine-making machines or wine cellars / laboratory manufacturers, located throughout the Italian territory. Promotora de Exportaciones Catalanas (PRODECA) is a public company established in 1986 and part of the “Ministry of Climate Action, Food and Rural Agenda of the Government of Catalonia”. It supports the agri-food sector and its companies with the knowledge, tools and experience to increase their products in Catalunya and worldwide.

About TASTE THE DIFFERENCE PROGRAM
The program: European quality wines: taste the difference is a project financed by the European Union and managed by Unione Italiana Vini and PRODECA for the promotion of PDO and PGI European wines abroad in China and US. In order to achieve this objective, the TTD.EU program will organize wine seminars, workshops and b2b meetings both in these countries and in Spain and Italy, inviting wine professionals to join study trips to Europe. The program, realized in the span of three years (2021-2023) aims at creating awareness about European quality wines, in particular Italian and Spanish, which share a long tradition and a high standard of quality.

The beneficiaries: Unione Italiana Vini is the oldest and most commissioned Association of the Italian wine market. It represents cooperative, private and agricultural wine-companies, bottlers, consortia, associations and wine-making machines or wine cellars / laboratory manufacturers, located throughout the Italian territory. Promotora de Exportaciones Catalanas (PRODECA) is a public company established in 1986 and part of the “Ministry of Climate Action, Food and Rural Agenda of the Government of Catalonia”. It supports the agri-food sector and its companies with the knowledge, tools and experience to increase their products in Catalunya and worldwide.

 

High-altitude vineyards and quality wines: Terra Alta DO reaches new heights

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NEW YORK (PRWEB) – The most southerly DO wine area in the region of Catalonia, Terra Alta is nestled among the mountains, approximately 60 miles south of Tarragona. As mentioned in the name itself, which translates into High Land, Terra Alta has always been forced to face the limits of mountain regions: difficult and rare communication and trade exchanges, as well as limited mechanization and development of secondary and tertiary sectors. This has inevitably shaped the local wine production whose origins date back to Roman times and whose expansion was hampered by the lack of effective trade routes.

In recent years, this background has proven to be a winning combination. Old vineyards, native varieties such as Garnacha Blanca and Morenillo, and small family businesses – along with some coops that have played an important social role during the most difficult years – have secured attention from wine lovers looking for quality, stories and sustainability. Sustainable practices in the vineyards are possible thanks to the hilly terrain and El Cierzo, a local dry wind originating in the Ebro River valley that moderates temperatures during the growing season and prevents mildew disease on the vines. Finally, limestone soils help retain the acidity in white wines and provide red wines with a delicate profile.

All this has led to a renaissance of the region in the last decade, resulting in modern Mediterranean style wines. Terra Alta is now the fastest growing PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) in the region of Catalonia, ranking third as far as consumer preferences among the wines of the Catalan PDO based on a Nielsen study. Fresh and aromatic whites are based mainly on Garnacha Blanca which represents the soul of DO Terra Alta: nowadays, 33% of the world’s White Garnacha is grown in the Terra Alta, a percentage that represents 75% of this grape’s production in Spain. Delicate and fruity reds are produced from Garnacha, Carignan, Tempranillo and Morenillo.

Terra Alta, which gained Picasso’s attention for its imponent landscapes, is now a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Its cultural heritage is also noteworthy, with two wineries that are part of the so-called wine cathedrals, two modernist jewels located in Pinell de Brai (1918) and Gandesa (1919).

About TASTE THE DIFFERENCE PROGRAM
The program: European quality wines: taste the difference is a project financed by the European Union and managed by Unione Italiana Vini and PRODECA for the promotion of PDO and PGI European wines abroad in China and the US. In order to achieve this objective, the TTD.EU program will organize wine seminars, workshops and b2b meetings both in these countries and in Spain and Italy, inviting wine professionals to join study trips to Europe. The program, realized in the span of three years (2021-2023) aims at creating awareness about European quality wines, in particular Italian and Spanish, which share a long tradition and a high standard of quality.

The beneficiaries: Unione Italiana Vini is the oldest and most commissioned Association of the Italian wine market. It represents cooperative, private and agricultural wine-companies, bottlers, consortia, associations and wine-making machines or wine cellars / laboratory manufacturers, located throughout the Italian territory. Promotora de Exportaciones Catalanas (PRODECA) is a public company established in 1986 and added to the Department of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Food of the Government of the “Generalitat de Catalunya.”

Perlises Pick: Caliza Winery

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When we decided it was time to visit wine country again, selecting the region was pretty easy. Paso Robles has long been a favorite of ours, going back to the 1980s[!]. Deciding who to visit was a little tougher – there are a lot of people who we consider friends in Paso and many of the wineries are on our “favorites” list. In addition, there are many new wineries that deserve attention.

One thing that was certain was that we needed to visit Carl Bowker at Caliza Winery. The one and only time that we did visit Caliza must have been soon after they opened the tasting room in 2008 – Pam and Carl Bowker had started making wine commercially with the 2006 vintage, but didn’t make their first wines available until late 2008. [We had actually tried to plan a visit in 2018 but couldn’t coordinate schedules.] Since that one time, we had relied on tasting Carl’s efforts at various events, such as Rhone Rangers and the Garagiste Festivals and they were always outstanding. But with no events happening in the last year and a half, visiting became a must.

Upon our arrival at the winery at the end of Anderson Road in the Willow Creek District AVA, Carl gave us a 4-wheel tour of the hillside vineyard adjacent to the tasting room. Carl explained that while the Caliza property is 60 acres, only 28 of those acres are planted. The expected Rhone varieties are there [Syrah, Grenache, Roussanne, Viognier, Mourvedre / Mataro], along with some Primitivo, Petite Sirah, Tempranillo and Tannat. Limestone and slate dominate the soil in this area [Caliza means “limestone” in Spanish]. The qualities of the soil and the climate of the Templeton Gap are what make this AVA so unique and enables Caliza and neighbors such as L’Aventure and Booker to make such great wines, as do other wineries that source fruit from the area.

And great wines they are. Sitting outside with Carl and tasting through the lineup reminded us of how much we enjoy his wines:

2020 “Pink” Rosé – One of the more complex rosés we’ve had, with a rich, strong finish and notes of white peach; a very bright blend of Grenache and Mourvedre.

2019 Viognier – This delicious 100% Viognier was concrete egg fermented. We noted ripe melon fruit with a dry, medium finish, and a full mouthfeel.

2019 Kissin Cousins – the 2020 vintage is already sold out but fortunately Carl has some of the 2019 left of this blend (48% Viognier, 30% Grenache Blanc, 22% Roussanne) that is always one of our favorites. Fermented in a combination of neutral and new oak and stainless steel (depending on the varietal) this wine had a solid mid- palate, clean stone fruit, and white flowers on the nose.

2019 Sidekick – another tasty white blend, this one 80% Roussanne and 20% Viognier. Barrel aged with a rich golden color, and notes of fresh straw and chalk, this is a serious food wine.

2018 Azimuth –the first of four outstanding reds that we tasted, this one is a blend of 50% Mourvedre, 30% Grenache and 20% Syrah. Huge fruit, notes of cherry, complex but balanced.

2017 Cohort – 58% Petite Sirah, 28% Syrah, 14% Mourvedre. This one was held back a year so the Petite could integrate, which it certainly did in this superb inky blend.

2018 Syrah – no nickname needed for this delicious 100% Syrah. It was fresh, bright, big and rich.

2018 Companion – the only wine that contains some non-estate fruit, this blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon and 48% Syrah created a terrific symbiotic pairing.

The accompanying cheese board from Paso favorite Vivant Fine Cheese with pairings selected specifically for the wines tasted just added to the experience, as did the great vineyard view from the patio.

As we were leaving, Carl mentioned that he had another important writer stopping in after us…from The Wine Advocate. Now that is impressive, but equally so is how Carl considered us to be important too. It goes to show you that he and the rest of the Caliza staff treats everyone with the same importance no matter who you are.

We Perlises don’t give number ratings, but we thought we’d share these with you from hugely respected critic, Jeb Dunnuck [as per the Caliza website]:

2018 Azimuth            95 points

2018 Companion      95 points

2018 Syrah               95 points

2017 Cohort              94 points

In your visits to Paso Robles wine country, you might be tempted to not go all the way to the end of Anderson Road. We really think you should because, if you don’t, you’ll be missing out on some great wines and wonderful down-to-earth people.

Caliza Winery

www.calizawinery.com

2570 Anderson Road
Paso Robles, CA 93446

Michael and Karen Perlis have been pursuing their passion for wine for more than 30 years. They have had the good fortune of having numerous mentors to show them the way and after a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting wineries and vineyards, and tasting as much wine as they possibly could, they had the amazing luck to meet Eve Bushman. Michael and Karen do their best to bring as much information as possible about wine to Eve’s Wine 101 faithful readers.