Eve's Wine 101

Behind the Wine: Story of Soil By Dawn Abasta

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Jessica Gasca’s journey to winemaker started out in unfamiliar territory. She is a native Californian but had ventured out to New York to explore her options. She worked in a French restaurant there and learned from their onsite sommelier who offered regular classes on wine. Jessica fell in love with everything about wine but she did not love the New York weather so she came back to California and continued her education. She read everything she could get her hands on, did tons of research and when she felt she was ready she reached out to her uncle Gary Burk who founded Costa De Oro Winery. She interned for him at the winery during harvest. Jessica loved the magic around harvest. She continued to learn everything she could, hands on and in the dirt.

She began saving all her pennies to buy one ton of Pinot and two tons of Syrah and in 2012 she made her first wines: a Gold Coast Vineyard Pinot and Larner Vineyard Syrah. These were released in 2015 making her one of the only female Latina winemakers in Santa Barbara. She now sources most of her wines from all over Santa Barbara County including Ballard, Santa Rita Hills, Santa Maria and Happy Canyon. She believes that wine is about the place it’s grown and the land it’s grown on. Thus, her winery name Story of Soil.

When asked what skills a winemaker should cultivate, Jessica said flexibility and patience. She endeavors to keep her wine in its truest form possible without additives. The result is a beautiful and delicious wine.

I asked her who influenced her along her journey and she said her Uncle was her mentor. She was also inspired and influenced by Jim Clendenen who helped her with her initial process and Amy Christine who is a Master of Wine and a wealth of knowledge. She advises that if you would like to get into the wine business, that you should reach out to your known sources and ask questions, get involved, taste more and most importantly don’t be afraid to take the leap of faith and follow your gut. When asked what the most rewarding thing about being a winemaker was she said it was being outside in nature every day. “The vineyard is my church”!

Prior to our interview I had been reviewing the Story of Soil Facebook page and noted that the team at Story of Soil starts every day with a motivational quote. I asked her which one meant the most to her. She answered, “Having a kind smile can go a long way.” She honestly believes that to be graceful in all things is important. You do not know what someone else is going through so smile, you might just turn their day around.

Jessica’s second passion is the Santa Barbara Vintners Foundation. As current President she is trying to help get a healthcare program together for vineyard workers. In 2021 she and the foundation helped get 1,000 vineyard workers vaccinated. They have also helped open Los Alamos Health Centers. To find out more about the foundation go to: http://www.sbvf.org/home.html

I have been to Story of Soil numerous times and I make sure to keep their pinot in my wine fridge. If you haven’t gone out to the Los Olivos area, be sure to add it to your next wine tasting trip. Story of Soil is located at 2928 San Marcos Ave, Los Olivos, CA 93441.

WALLA WALLA VALLEY THREE-PEATS AS ‘BEST WINE REGION,’ LONG SHADOWS TAKES ‘BEST WINE TASTING ROOM’

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(WALLA WALLA, Wash.) — What do “America’s Best Wine Region” and “America’s Best Wine Tasting Room” have in common? Both are in Walla Walla, at least according to the 2022 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. For Walla Walla, three times really is the charm. The Walla Walla Valley was voted America’s Best Wine Region for an unprecedented third consecutive year, an enormous accomplishment for the region, according to Visit Walla Walla and Walla Walla Valley Wine.

Even more, Long Shadows Vintners won the Best Wine Tasting Room category for the first time. The winery finished in third place in 2021, following two consecutive fourth-place finishes in 2020 and 2019.

“We congratulate all of the wine regions on earning their rightful place as finalists in the category, but it’s extremely gratifying to see the Walla Walla Valley finish at the top of the list for an unprecedented third consecutive year,” said Robert Hansen, executive director of Visit Walla Walla and Walla Walla Valley Wine. “From the arts, history, and culture, to the dining, agriculture, and scenery, to of course the wine, there are a lot of pieces to the puzzle that makes the Walla Walla Valley America’s Best Wine Region.”

The annual USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards are decided entirely through public voting. The Walla Walla Valley prevailed from a field of 20 finalists, including some of the most famous wine regions in the U.S. Long Shadows was the top vote-getter among 10 finalists in the Best Wine Tasting Room category.

Nestled on Walla Walla’s Westside, Long Shadows’ Chihuly Tasting Room has long been among the most unique and stunning found anywhere. A result of a friendship between Long Shadows’ founder Allen Shoup and famed glass artist Dale Chihuly, the tasting room represents a perfect marriage of art and wine, accentuated by a collection of Chihuly glass including a dramatic custom chandelier.

“We established Long Shadows in Walla Walla 20 years ago because we were drawn to its small-town charm and inspired by its pioneering winemakers,” said Dane Narbaitz, president of Long Shadows. “They established Walla Walla as a destination for world-class wines and hospitality. It is a tradition that inspires our winemaking and the experience our team seeks to offer guests. We are honored to be named America’s best tasting room at the same time Walla Walla is recognized as the country’s best wine region.”  

The Walla Walla Valley has earned a groundswell of nationwide acclaim in recent years. Not only is it a three-time pick for Best Wine Region in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, the region was named one of Forbes’ 22 Best Places To Travel In The U.S. In 2022, the West’s best Emerging Wine Route in the 2021 Sunset Travel Awards, and one of Fodor’s Top places to go in the west in 2022.

To learn more about the Walla Walla Valley and its award-winning wines and wineries, visit www.wallawalla.org or www.wallawallawine.com

About Walla Walla:

As the unofficial capital of Washington wine country, Walla Walla is home to more than 120 wineries, a nationally recognized culinary scene, access to an abundance of outdoor recreation, and an arts & entertainment scene that rivals cities many times its size. This community of just over 30,000 residents is known for many things, including its friendliness and hospitality, the quality of its wine, and of course the famous Walla Walla Sweet Onion. An easy and scenic four-hour drive from Seattle, Portland, or Boise, Walla Walla can also be accessed via Alaska Airlines daily non-stop flights from Seattle. For more information and to begin planning a trip to Walla Walla, visit www.wallawalla.org.

About Walla Walla Valley Wine:

Walla Walla Valley Wine is a nonprofit wine industry membership organization whose primary mission is to build an internationally acclaimed Walla Walla Valley wine brand among consumers, media, and trade by providing marketing programs on behalf of member wineries, vineyards, and partners. Walla Walla Valley Wine functions as the leading informational resource for consumers, media, and trade interested in learning more about the Valley’s wine industry. For more information visit www.wallawallawine.com.

About Long Shadows Vintners:

Washington wine visionary Allen Shoup founded Long Shadows in 2002. His idea for Long Shadows was as simple as it was complex. Recruit seven internationally acclaimed winemakers; give each access to Washington State’s best grapes, and outfit a winery to the vintners’ exacting cellar specifications. Seven stand-alone wineries are the result and comprise the Long Shadows’ portfolio: Chester-Kidder, Feather, Pedestal, Pirouette, Poet’s Leap, Saggi, and Sequel. Since the beginning, Long Shadows’ director of winemaking and viticulture, Gilles Nicault, has brought each winemaker’s vision to completion. The wines are made at a state-of-the-art winery in Walla Walla, home to Long Shadows’ Chihuly Tasting Room. The wines are also available for tasting at Long Shadows’ Woodinville location. More information is available at longshadows.com.

Perlises Pick: Visiting Santa Rosa and Healdsburg

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If you are reading Eve’s Wine 101, the main reason for you to visit the Santa Rosa/Healdsburg area in Sonoma County is presumably for the wine. While we are not going to pick an absolutely favorite wine region, we’d be hard-pressed to select an area that we enjoy more.

We will name a favorite place to stay though. Vintners Resort in Santa Rosa tops our list. We’ve watched it grow from its originally named Vintners Inn under the watchful eyes of owner Rhonda Carano and GM Percy Brandon. Sadly for us, Percy has just moved on to become General Manager of the Allison Inn & Spa in Newburg, Oregon. We were fortunate enough to see him one last time to say our goodbyes. Who knows, maybe it is time for us to report on Oregon wine country? In the meantime, as Eve Wine 101 has already reported, Brian Sommer has been named General Manager and we look forward to meeting with him on our next visit.

Fortunately, our favorite restaurant in Santa Rosa is on the Vintners Resort property. John Ash and Company opened in 1980[!] and was the first Sonoma County restaurant to introduce the concept of cooking with seasonal, locally sourced foods and produce – AKA wine country cuisine. The original chef was, of course, John Ash and the current chef Tom Schmidt is continuing the concept.

The atmosphere is of an elegant country inn, with views of the vineyards on the resort property. Choose from indoor or al fresco dining on the open-air terrace with available heaters if needed.  The staff is very knowledgeable and attentive, yet unobtrusive. From our appetizers of Tuna Poke and Beef Carpaccio to our entrees of Bone-In Pork Chop [which Karen said was the best she ever had] and Duck Breast, everything flowed seamlessly. As did our wine, starting with glasses of Roederer Estate Brut and then our BYOB 2013 Bedrock Winery Zinfandel from the Carlisle Vineyard. We were too full for dessert, but not too full for the complimentary dark chocolate truffles.

A little further north in Healdsburg is a wonderful restaurant that somehow we had not managed to visit on previous trips to the area, even though it opened back in 2015: Valette, which is only a block away from the Healdsburg Square. Brothers Dustin Valette and Aaron Garzini grew up in Geyserville and envisioned working together using local Sonoma products. Dustin got his culinary training at the CIA in New York and then worked at Bouchon in Napa and Dry Creek Kitchen in Healdsburg, among others. Aaron worked as sommelier and front of the house at John Ash [see above!] and at Rustic Restaurant, Francis Ford Coppola’s restaurant at his Geyserville winery. General Manager Harry Bryan recently returned to Valette from a stint at Timber Cove Resort, bringing with him over two decades of industry experience.

From top-tier professionals on down through the entire team, Valette is in a very select group of restaurants where it is clear that everybody wants to be there and enjoys what they do.

With our appetizers of Ahi Poke and Fruit Compote Special with Foie Gras, we enjoyed glasses of the 2020 Valette Rose of Pinot Noir. Yes, they do have their own wine label to complement the selections on their amazing wine list – this rose is made by Bob Cabral [formerly with Williams Selyem, among others] and was delicious. We brought a bottle of 2013 Bedrock Winery Zinfandel from the Bedrock Vineyard to accompany our entrees of Crispy Skinned Steelhead Trout for Karen and Pan Seared Alaskan Halibut for Michael. All the dishes were wonderful, both visually and gustatorily. And this time, we did save room for the peanut and chocolate dessert, “It’s Not A ‘Snickers Bar’, which topped off the evening.

We highly recommended Valette for a special occasion or just to make any occasions special.

Finally, if you find yourself out and about on a Sunday, Monday or Wednesday morning before the wineries open, pay a visit to the Luther Burbank Home & Gardens in downtown Santa Rosa. We really enjoyed strolling the grounds of the home and gardens of this world-renowned pioneering horticulturist who experimented with plants for more than 50 years. We took the easy, self-guided tour of gardens ranging from crops, fruits, herbs, flowers, wildlife habit and cactus with informative displays, pictures and mini quiz boxes.  Check out the pic of the spineless cactus as big as a small house!

Vintners Resort and John Ash & Company

www.vintnersresort.com

4350 Barnes Road

Santa Rosa, CA 95403

Valette

www.valettehealdsburg.com

344 Center Street

Healdsburg, CA 95448

Luther Burbank Home & Gardens

www.lutherburbank.org

204 Santa Rosa Ave

Santa Rosa, CA 95404

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.

Drive Through Paso Robles – A Book Review

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A few weeks ago I received an email from Naushad Huda, the “Voice of Modern Wine Culture”, asking if I would like to review the book, Drive Through Paso Robles. Huda, the creator and publisher of both this book and a Napa version, also emailed a synopsis. I was intrigued, as I’ve been to the area for wine tasting many times but have never studied the area in depth (we definitely covered Paso during my course work forAmerican Wine Specialist) or met with all of the winemakers interviewed for the book, so I requested a copy to read. Below is my review and below that some of the information sent from Huda.

Eve’s Review

Authored by Paul Hodgkins and designed by Kathy Lajvardi, the back cover states that this book is the“#1 RESOURCE FOR PASO ROBLES WINE REGIONS”, and is an “ideal traveling companion” when you visit the area. Great start.

Here are some bullet points you may find interesting, or may not have known:

  • Paso was known for hot springs, cattle ranches, almond orchards and being near the Hearst Castle long before it was known as a wine region.
  • Robert Parker is quoted for referencing Paso’s Rhone Rangers in a nod to all of the quality Rhone varietals being made there.
  • Of the 11 Sub-AVAs (American Viticulture Area) in Paso there are 50 different soil types – including granite, sedimentary rock and volcanic rock.
  • You may have heard that during prohibition many people made wine at home, under the radar. But you may not have know that each home was allowed to make up to “200 gallons of non-intoxicating cider and fruit juice per year” that was definitely intoxicating.
  • Popular vintners and winemakers that have their history in Paso shared in this book include heavyweights Richard Niner (Niner), Hansjorg Wyss (Halter Ranch), Don Law (Law Estate), Bill Armstrong (Epoch), Hans Nef (Vina Robles), brothers Daniel and Georges Daou (Daou) and Ron Denner (Denner).
  • There is an anti-Napa movement in Paso, called Napafication. They want to be “rustic” and less “famous” than Napa.

Chris Taranto of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance, who I’ve been in contact with for years when I travel to the area, did most of the “research and primary writing” for the chapters on the Sub-AVAs. If you are interested in tasting specific varietals when you visit Paso this section dedicated to each AVA would be of interest. For example if you want Bordeaux or Rhone wines they mention The Adelaida District. If you want old vines, they can be found in the Willow Creek District, as well as Rhônes and Cabs. The Creston District is known for Bordeaux wines. If you’re interest in the topography, soil and history on each – it’s also detailed in this section.

There is another section of the book dedicated to the winery tasting rooms in Tin City, close to the 101 freeway. At the end of this section there is also a list of the current tasting rooms in Downtown Paso. (You could easily spend a day or two between both places and cut down on your driving.)

The final chapter is dedicated to winemaker interviews done with author Paul Hodgkins. I’ve personally met and interviewed a few of them myself so I think this is very nice for wine lovers that haven’t had that opportunity. At the end of each is a sort of “autograph page” where the reader would bring the book to a tasting, make their notes and get the winemaker to autograph the page. Pretty cool. Some of the heavyweights in this section include Daniel Daou of Daou Vineyards, Janell Dusi of J Dusi Wines, Gary Eberle of Eberle Winery, Guillaume Fabre from Clos Solene, Jordan Fiorentini of Epoch Estate Wines, Austin Hope for Hope Family Wines, Steve Peck of J. Lohr Vineyards and Wines, Victor Hugo Roberts of Victor Hugo Winery and Justin Smith of Saxum Vineyards.

The final few pages are spent on “FAQS about wine tasting” which is helpful for anyone planning on visiting a winery. I know some people get nervous in a new surrounding; this section will serve to alleviate any tension.

From Naushad Huda

Part 1: history of California wine and the Paso wine region with human stories of the early families like Dusi and Pesenti.
Part 2: insights on the 11 sub AVAs with some geeky info like soil and what to expect from wines from that region.
Part 3: interviews with 9 winemakers – NOT talking about their wines – but about the uniqueness of their AVA and where they believe the Paso wine region is going.

Forward by award-winning writer/director Prentice Penny (HBO and Netflix). Here’s (a video they did with the) Paso Wine Alliance: https://fb.watch/cM7t8MeHXy/

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.

Tuscan Women Cook Relaunches Their Culinary Immersion Vacation Program in Italy

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Tuscan Women Cook, the unique and popular culinary vacation located in the heart of Tuscany celebrating the food and culture of the Italian region, is back at their pre-pandemic full schedule of classes and excursions in the charming village of Montefollonico. 

The 2022 season is just about sold out though space is still available, and they are taking reservations for 2023 and 2024. Owner and host, Coleen Kirnan has been hard at work with her team and the businesses in Montefollonico creating new class experiences, fun and relaxing side trips and activities for her guests.

“Tuscan Women Cook is proud of our deep relationships forged with the residents and businesses of Montefollonico. We’ve been here since 2000 and feel deeply connected to this community,” Coleen says. “The warm welcome our guests receive from the residents and the personal ties we have with the very best vintners, restaurateurs, and, of course, our cherished nonnas, gives our guests unparalleled, exclusive access to a true Italian culinary experience. We are so happy to be able to resume our full schedule.”

During each day of the week-long program, a group of 16 participants learn to cook authentic Italian recipes from some of the best cooks in all of Italy…the local grandmothers, or “nonnas of Montefollonico.” These extraordinary women teach their cooking classes sharing family recipes that have been handed down from generation to generation.

This year Tuscan Women Cook is happy to add a new nonna to their teaching roster, Dania, the former owner of the Michelin-starred La Chiusa Ristorante.  She came out of retirement just to conduct classes for Tuscan Women Cook. Guests swoon over Dania’s homemade caramel gelato and love learning how to pull hand-spun sugar during Dania’s cooking class.

While staying within the walls of the magical village of Montefollonico, guests stay at the beautiful I Castagni hotel.  Perched at the very top of Montefollonico, guests enjoy spectacular views of the Chiana valley and the picturesque village from their suites and I Castagni’s well-appointed expansive outdoor terrace.

“Families, friends, couples, and solo travelers of all ages from around the world join us every spring and fall for this life-changing experience,” Coleen states.  “Join a group of accomplished cooks, the culinary curious, and grateful, happy eaters who may very well become your new foodie friends for life. Where better to launch a new friendship than relaxing with a glass of Super Tuscan wine while admiring the breathtaking view of the Tuscan countryside?”

And after a day of cooking, eating, and wine tasting, participants are taken on shopping and sightseeing trips in the many beautiful villages and towns of Tuscany, with maybe a little more wine tasting and afternoon gelato sampling, ending each day with a memorable gourmet dinner in the region’s top locales.  

Tuscan Women Cook’s week-long program runs during the months of May, June, September and October.

 For more information on Tuscan Women Cook, visit their website, www.TuscanWomenCook.com.

Stags Leap District Winegrowers Announces Esteemed Culinary Partners for Vineyard to Vintner, April 22-24, 2022

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NAPA, CALIF. (PRWEB) – Offering even more reasons to attend its signature gathering, Stags Leap District Winegrowers today announced the roster of elite chefs and culinary partners for the 2022 Vineyard to Vintner weekend. The annual celebration brings Cabernet Sauvignon enthusiasts together with vintners, winemakers and principals for exclusive tastings, in-depth education and exquisite meals. This year’s event will be held Friday through Sunday, April 22 to 24, 2022.

“While renowned wines and rare library offerings take the spotlight throughout the weekend, guests will also be treated to an array of opulent menus designed to beautifully complement the power and grace of Stags Leap District varietals,” said Nancy Bialek, Executive Director of Stags Leap District Winegrowers. “We’re thrilled to welcome some of the region’s most exciting chefs to Vineyard to Vintner this year.”

Culinary partners include Michelin-starred and Wine Spectator Award-winning chef Ken Frank of La Toque; chef Daniel Gomez, who has more than 15 years of experience at Michelin-starred restaurants including The French Laundry and Cyrus; cookbook author and acclaimed Napa Valley chef Peter Hall; Top Chef finalist and fan favorite Casey Thompson of the newly opened Folk Table restaurant; chef, restaurateur and author Tanya Holland of Brown Sugar Kitchen fame; executive winery chef Travis Westrope of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, along with Elaine Bell Catering; and Tracy and John Anderson, proprietors of Woodhouse Chocolates in St. Helena.

Featured Vineyard to Vintner Culinary Highlights:
Library Wine Dinners: Friday, April 22 // 6:30PM – 10:00PM

  • An Illuminating Wine and Food Experience with Chef, Author and Restaurateur Tanya Holland, hosted at Chimney Rock Winery with Shafer Vineyards and Quixote Winery
  • Homegrown: An Exploration of Fine Wines and Farm-to-Table Dining in Stags Leap District with Chef Casey Thompson, hosted at Regusci Winery with Lindstrom Wines and Stags’ Leap Winery
  • NOLA in Napa with Chef and Author Peter Hall, hosted at Silverado Vineyards with Cliff Lede Vineyards and Ilsley Vineyards
  • A Feast of Legendary Wine and Food with Chef Travis Westrope and Elaine Bell Catering, hosted at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars with Pine Ridge Vineyards, Malk Family Vineyards and Baldacci Family Vineyards
  • An Evening Under the Stars with SLD’s Pioneering Families with Chef Daniel Gomez, hosted at Taylor Family Vineyards with Clos Du Val and Steltzner Vineyards

Vintner-Hosted Gala Luncheon and Appellation Collection Preview: Saturday, April 23 // 12:30PM – 3:00PM at Stags’ Leap Winery.

Guests, vintners and winemakers will join in a celebratory champagne welcome followed by a strolling lunch prepared by Michelin-starred and Wine Spectator Award-winning chef Ken Frank of famed Napa Valley restaurant La Toque, along with specialties from Tracy and John Anderson of Woodhouse Chocolates of St. Helena. Vintners will showcase critically acclaimed wines as well as a sneak preview of the Stags Leap District 2019 Appellation Collection Cabernet Sauvignons, scheduled for release in October 2022.

The full Vineyard to Vintner weekend also comprises “Digging Deeper: Vineyard Walks, Talks and Tastings,” on Saturday, April 23, and “Savor SLD,” exclusive winery tasting experiences, on Sunday April 24. Guests will have the chance to fully explore the region while tasting wines and meeting with vintners from 16 famed properties, including Baldacci Family Vineyards, Chimney Rock Winery, Cliff Lede Vineyards, Clos Du Val, Ilsley Vineyards, Lindstrom Wines, Malk Family Vineyards, Pine Ridge Vineyards, Quixote Winery, Regusci Winery, Shafer Vineyards, Silverado Vineyards, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Stags’ Leap Winery, Steltzner Vineyards, and Taylor Family Vineyards.

Tickets, Schedule and Additional Information
A limited number of tickets remain available and can be purchased at http://www.stagsleapdistrict.com/V2V. The Friday through Saturday experience (April 22-24, 2022) is $1,200 per person, which includes the entire weekend’s offerings. Visit http://www.stagsleapdistrict.com/V2V for the full schedule and other details.

About Stags Leap District Winegrowers
The Stags Leap District Winegrowers is a non-profit association of vintners and growers united by the mission of enhancing the reputation of the appellation and its wines and sharing its quality with the wine-loving world. The SLDWA is comprised of 16 wineries and 9 grower members. Wineries include: Baldacci Family Vineyards, Chimney Rock Winery, Cliff Lede Vineyards, Clos Du Val, Ilsley Vineyards, Lindstrom Wines, Malk Family Vineyards, Pine Ridge Vineyards, Quixote Winery, Regusci Winery, Shafer Vineyards, Silverado Vineyards, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Stags’ Leap Winery, Steltzner Vineyards, and Taylor Family Vineyards. To learn more about the Stags Leap District, please visit stagsleapdistrict.

com or find the Association on Facebook.com/StagsLeapDistrict, Instagram.com/StagsLeapAVA and Twitter @StagsLeapAVA.

Napa Valley Wine Region Recognized for World Class Hospitality

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Visit Napa Valley and Napa Valley Vintners are pleased to announce seven regional winners of the Great Wine Capitals Best of Wine Tourism Awards.

“Napa Valley is a globally recognized leader in wine and hospitality providing luxurious accommodations, Michelin starred restaurants and incredible wine experiences. These awards of excellence highlight the world-class hospitality that Napa Valley is so well known for,” said Linsey Gallagher, President and CEO of Visit Napa Valley.

These seven Napa Valley businesses are recognized for their innovation and excellence in wine tourism. Each award given recognizes a service or offering that is unique, executed with excellence and has a positive impact on local wine tourism.

  • Accommodations: Carneros Resort and Spa
  • Wine Tourism Restaurant: Auberge du Soleil
  • Sustainable Wine Tourism Practices: Clif Family Winery & Farm
  • Architectures and Landscapes: BRAND Napa Valley
  • Art and Culture: Charles Krug
  • Wine Tourism Services: Napa Valley Wine Academy
  • Innovative Wine Tourism Experiences: Cakebread Cellars

Each year, the regional winners from each capital around the world are reviewed by a distinguished global panel and only one prestigious “Global Best of Wine Tourism Award” is awarded for each category.

Charles Krug has been selected for the Global Best Award for Art and Culture for their efforts to be the “Cultural Hub of Napa Valley” through their deep support of food, wine and the arts. As Napa Valley reopened in 2021, Charles Krug was home to Blue Note Napa for jazz concerts, Festival Napa Valley, Music in the Vineyards, Cochon 555/Heritage Fire culinary celebration, Charles Krug comedy shows, Napa Valley Film Festival and Cameo Theater drive in movies.

“We’re proud of the resiliency shown in our region during the incredible challenges our region has faced the last two years. Charles Krug is an excellent example of the spirit of community and innovation that is so strong in Napa Valley,” said Stacey Dolan Capitani, VP of Marketing for Napa Valley Vintners.

The Great Wine Capitals is a network of the nine greatest wine regions in the world.  Napa Valley is a proud partner in the organization along with Adelaide, South Australia; Bilbao-Rioja, Spain; Bordeaux, France; Cape Town-Cape Winelands, South Africa; Lausanne, Switzerland; Mainz-Rheinhessen, Germany; Mendoza, Argentina; Porto, Portugal; Valparaiso-Casablanca Valley, Chile and Verona, Italy

About the Napa Valley Vintners 

The Napa Valley Vintners nonprofit trade association has been cultivating excellence since 1944 by inspiring its nearly 550 members to consistently produce wines of the highest quality, provide environmental leadership and care for the extraordinary place they call home. Since 1981, the NVV has invested more than $200 million in its community to provide equitable access to healthcare and opportunity for advancement in children’s education. NVV is dedicated to improving diversity and championing inclusivity in its community and in the wine industry. Learn more at napavintners.com.

About Visit Napa Valley

Visit Napa Valley® is the official destination management organization for Napa County. We promote the region as an attractive travel destination and enhance its public image as a dynamic place to visit, live and work. Primary funding for our activities and programs comes from a Tourism Improvement District (TID) special assessment on lodging. Additional funding is provided through partnerships with visitor-serving businesses throughout Napa County.

EMERIL LAGASSE FOUNDATION’S CARNIVALE DU VIN BREAKS RECORDS FOR CHILDREN’S CHARITIES

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NEW ORLEANS, LA —The Emeril Lagasse Foundation celebrated its 19th annual fundraising weekend on November 5th and 6th in New Orleans, raising a Foundation record $3.75 million to support its mission to create opportunities to inspire, mentor, and enable youth to reach their full potential through culinary, nutrition, and arts education, with a focus on life skills development.                                  

“After missing our live event last year, we were happy to come back together in person and celebrate with an amazing lineup of chefs and auction items,” says Chef Emeril Lagasse. “Alden and I remain ever grateful for the generosity of our donors, sponsors, participating chefs, and the New Orleans community. Their continued support changes the lives of vulnerable children in our community.”
                  
The Emeril Lagasse Foundation’s annual fundraising weekend kicked off with events at the New Orleans Board of Trade and The Sazerac House. The Fillmore hosted Carnivale du Vin 2021, the foundation’s nationally recognized wine auction and gala dinner. Culinary greats Frank Brigtsen, Nina Compton, Ken Frank, Ken Lum, Ronnie Rainwater, and Frank Szymanski brought together the best in wine and food for a night of charitable giving. Four hundred guests experienced a four-course meal created by Chef Emeril’s team and culinary students from the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts.  Hospitality students from Café Hope, Café Reconcile, and Pro-Start received training from Emeril’s front-of-house staff, and together, they formed the service team for the special evening.
                  
The live auction highlight was a six-liter bottle of The Setting Wines 2019 Glass Slipper Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon that sold for $1 Million—shattering the World Record as the most expensive single bottle of wine ever sold at auction. “We are humbled to be able to offer $1 million to the Emeril Lagasse Foundation and its efforts to support youth, ” said Don Steiner, purchaser of the world record breaking lot.
                  
Co-founded by Jeff Cova and Noah McMahon, who both come from philanthropic backgrounds, and famed winemaker Jesse Katz, The Setting Wines first broke world records when a 750-ml bottle of their wine sold for $350,000 at Carnivale du Vin in 2017. “We are truly honored and amazed to make history again, especially as part of an event that means so much to us,” said McMahon, who serves on the Advisory Committee of the Emeril Lagasse Foundation. “Inspiring others in meaningful ways is a huge part of our brand ethos, so we couldn’t be more thrilled to know this record-breaking sale will have such a big impact on the Emeril Lagasse Foundation’s mission to create uplifting educational and developmental programs for children.” 
 
The Setting Wines 2019 Glass Slipper Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from the prestigious Glass Slipper Vineyard, located in Napa’s renowned Coombsville AVA. Made of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, this bottling is the first wine ever to be released from this vineyard, which is owned by long-time vintners, Paul and Suzie Frank. Marrying meticulous farming, of which the Franks are known for, with the world-class winemaking skills of Katz, the 2019 Glass Slipper Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is an exquisite wine that showcases finesse and age-ability while perfectly encapsulating the elegant nuances of the region. Only 75 cases and one six-liter bottle were produced.
 
The Emeril Lagasse Foundation continually provides capital and programmatic support to eligible non-profit organizations across the nation through its Community Grants Program. Recent grant recipients include Covenant House New Orleans, Second Harvest Food Bank, Arc Broward, Food for Thought, and NOCCA. The signature program of the Emeril Lagasse Foundation is Emeril’s Culinary Garden & Teaching Kitchen. This program was created to make a direct, lasting impact on the lives of young people. It reflects the foundation’s mission to inspire, mentor, and enable youth while broadening its reach nationally. Currently, there are five garden & kitchen programs around the country.

Sponsors for the weekend included Visit South Walton, Wicks Family Foundation, All Charities Ocean Reef, The Solomon Family,  Buffalo Trace, Abita, GHMumm, Center for Restorative Breast Surgery, Jones Walker, Shipt, Bradshaw, GoodCook, Sands Cares, Marquee Brands and James G. Fifield Family Trust. 
 
About Emeril Lagasse Foundation: Founded in 2002 by Chef Emeril Lagasse and his wife Alden, Emeril Lagasse Foundation is a 501c(3) public charity headquartered in New Orleans. The foundation’s mission is to inspire, mentor and enable youth to reach their full potential through culinary, nutrition, and arts education with a focus on life skills development. Since its inception, Emeril Lagasse Foundation has granted more than $15.5 million to children’s charities to support culinary, nutrition, and arts programs. The foundation was recognized as the 2016 Nonprofit of the Year by the Louisiana Association of Non-Profit Organizations. To learn more about the foundation and its beneficiaries, visit Emeril.org, or follow on Facebook, Twitter , or Instagram.
 
About The Setting Wines: The Setting Wines is a collection of luxury wines created by three friends: Jeff Cova, Noah McMahon and famed winemaker, Jesse Katz. Driven by their philanthropic backgrounds, Jeff and Noah partnered with Jesse to establish The Setting Wines in 2014, a brand that seeks to encourage the appreciation of the simple moments in life, embrace the transformative power of shared experiences, and give back in meaningful ways. Sourcing grapes from esteemed vineyards throughout Napa and Sonoma Valleys, The Setting produces high quality wines that express a delicate balance between purity of fruit and the unique characters of each vineyard site. Visit thesettingwines.com to learn more.

Charles Woodson & O’Neill Family Wine Scholarship Winners Announced

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LARKSPUR, Calif. – Jeff O’Neill, O’Neill Vintners & Distillers, and Charles Woodson, Intercept Wines, are pleased to announce and congratulate students Abigail Barnabas and Stella Tuffli, winners of the Charles Woodson & O’Neill Family Wine Scholarship, on their academic excellence and achievement. The scholarships were developed in partnership with Sonoma State University and through the California Community Foundation (CCF), in partnership with California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) in San Luis Obispo, to recruit and retain high-achieving Black, Indigenous, and People of Color interested in pursuing a career in the wine industry.

“I’m excited to congratulate Abigail Barnabas and Stella Tuffli on their incredible accomplishments,” comments Jeff O’Neill, CEO of O’Neill Vintners & Distillers. “Our goal is to always support the wine community and nurture the next generation and specifically the BIPOC community. We hope these scholarships will facilitate their passions in the wine industry and we look forward to seeing what the future holds for these outstanding students.”

Abigail Barnabas, eldest of three children, spent the first 16 years of her life in Ethiopia before moving with her family to California in 2018. She is an undergraduate earning a B.S. in electrical engineering from Sonoma State University. Barnabas says, “Winning this scholarship is an exciting opportunity that is going to take away worries of tuition and housing, but also expand my growth and vision and do things I’ve never done before.”

On campus, Barnabas is inspired by mentors at Sonoma State, including Umoja Queens, a mentorship program for students who identify as Black womxn within the Pan African Diaspora to connect with faculty that also identify as Black womxn. Barnabas is working toward her post-graduate goal of strengthening her skills and utilizing electrical engineering to create a more diverse, sustainable, safe, and efficient wine industry. In her spare time, she is an avid reader who enjoys all genres, but especially science fiction.

Tuffli, a Bay Area-native from Concord, California and a wine and viticulture program first-year at Cal Poly, began her degree program this fall. Tuffli was initially drawn to the industry after realizing it could offer worldly experiences and provide an amazing opportunity for expanding her knowledge. Her main area of focus is wine business, and she is working toward a career in wine sales, marketing, and hopefully, starting her own winery. Tuffli is most excited about Cal Poly’s unique viticulture program and the classes in agricultural economics, because it will assist in her goals to learn about business in agricultural communities. “I am very proud of myself for getting this scholarship on my own. [It] really proves to myself that my hard work [has] really paid off, [and] this scholarship also will help my family financially and take the stress away from paying for college.”

“I am honored to support the next generation of BIPOC wine professionals as we strive to create opportunities for diversity within the industry,” comments Charles Woodson, NFL Hall of Famer and owner of Charles Woodson’s Intercept Wines. “Congratulations to both Abigail and Stella as they begin their careers. I look forward to seeing their growth along this journey. Build Your Legend!”

This scholarship, in partnership with the two California universities, will cover 100% of the tuition, and room and board to support both winners over their entire undergraduate college career. The ongoing scholarships will fund one student at each university at a time. O’Neill Vintners & Distillers will provide internships, mentoring, and offer hands-on learning opportunities for scholarship recipients to enhance their college experience in the wine industry.

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Disclaimer: The CCF operates the Charles Woodson and O’Neill Family Wine Scholarship to benefit Cal Poly students. CCF is not affiliated with the University.

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About O’Neill Vintners & Distillers

O’Neill Vintners & Distillers was founded in 2004 by industry veteran and entrepreneur Jeff O’Neill. The vertically integrated winery is one of the fastest-growing wineries in California with a reputation for producing premium-quality wines from the North Coast, Central Coast, and Central Valley. The company’s national brands portfolio includes Line 39, Robert Hall, Harken, Day Owl Rosé, Game Box, Rabble, Accomplice and Charles Woodson’s Intercept. For more information, please visit www.ONeillWine.com.

Discover Napa’s Rustic Elegance at the 10th Annual Taste of Atlas Peak on October 30th

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NAPA, CALIF. (PRWEB) – This year’s 10th Annual Taste of Atlas Peak promises to be a memorable tasting event as winegrowers, vintners, and wine enthusiasts gather to celebrate the rustic elegance of Atlas Peak Appellation wines and raise funds for a cause that is especially important to Napa Valley community members. In collaboration with the Napa Communities Firewise Foundation (NCFF), Taste of Atlas Peak will call on sponsorships and donations, in addition to ticket sales, to help support and sustain local fire-safety efforts. Net proceeds from this year’s event will be distributed through the NCFF to various fire safety projects, including fuel reduction, fire breaks, and the IQ FireWatch system.

The event will be hosted at the Silverado Resort & Spa on Saturday, October 30, 2021, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM and feature an exclusive walk-around tasting, the opportunity to mingle with winemakers, and enjoy gourmet food pairings. Guests will also experience live music plus an auction of collectible wines, local art, lodging and dining, and other highly desirable lots.

For the first time in its history, Taste of Atlas Peak will join with the Napa County Board of Supervisors, Circle R Ranch, E. & J. Gallo Winery, Goldman Sachs Private Wealth Management, Marc and Lynne Benioff, and others to raise funds in support of various fire-safety programs. One of these programs is the installation of an IQ FireWatch camera at the top of Atlas Peak Road. IQ FireWatch is an artificial intelligence-based system that uses optical and heat sensors to detect fires day or night; it sends an immediate alert notification with images to authorities for rapid confirmation and proportionate response. The system will improve wildfire detection, help first responders to extinguish fires before they get out of control, and ensure that the public receives critical information in fire emergencies.

The fundraising effort comes on top of several new fire-safety additions to the county over the past four years. “This is a big step for the Atlas Peak Appellation and their collaboration with Napa County and the NCFF,” said Alfredo Pedroza, Chairman of the Napa County Board of Supervisors. “We are excited to bring wine enthusiasts to Atlas Peak to enjoy the wines of our county, while raising funds for a cause that will help protect the production of these wines, as well as the homes, businesses, and livelihoods of our community members.”

“We’re pleased to do our share as a friend and neighbor of the people of Atlas Peak,” said Chris Bailey, General Manager of Peter Read’s Circle R Ranch. “We need to do everything we can to fight fires and prevent damage to our community. We’re excited to partner with others to help ensure the IQ FireWatch system is installed and monitored. We think this is the best proactive measure to detect fires before they get out of hand, and we hope that others will join us in making this happen to protect Atlas Peak and the surrounding Napa Valley.”

“In cooperation with Napa County, many generous friends and neighbors, and the NCFF, our plan is to support and provide funding for the 24-hour monitoring of the IQ FireWatch system, which will help us protect and sustain our way of life on Atlas Peak,” said Peter Stoneberg, President of the Atlas Peak Appellation Association. With this early warning detection system in place, “it will minimize fires that could threaten the entire Napa Valley and beyond.”

Taste of Atlas Peak is the Atlas Peak Appellation’s premier annual event, offering guests an exclusive chance to taste premium wines from more than 20 wineries producing only the finest expressions from Atlas Peak terroir—all while raising funds to protect the vineyards, wineries, and local land. “We look forward to showcasing the best of Atlas Peak to wine enthusiasts from near and far at Silverado Resort & Spa,” says John Evans, General Manager. “Because many of the wineries in this AVA do not have traditional tasting rooms, this event truly is the best way to discover the rustic elegance of Atlas Peak.” Wineries will be offering exclusive bottlings not available anywhere else, and wine enthusiasts will have the opportunity to connect directly with the winemakers and vintners.

Participating Atlas Peak Appellation Wineries
Acumen
Alpha Omega
Antica Napa Valley
Atlas Peak Wine Labs
Burgess Cellars
Dos Lagos Vineyards
Hesperian Wines
Hill Family Estate
James Cole Winery
Jean Edwards Cellars
Llamas Family Wines
Lobo Wines
Prime Solum
Sequoia Grove
Sill Family Vineyards
Vin Roc
Williamson Wines

Ticket Information:
The 10th Annual Taste of Atlas Peak takes place on Saturday, October 30, 2021, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Silverado Resort & Spa, 1600 Atlas Peak Road, Napa, CA. Tickets are $150 per person. Visit https://bit.ly/EventbriteTicketsToAP2021 for full details and to purchase.

COVID Protocols:
Ensuring the comfort and safety of all attendees, wineries and event staff is a top priority. The event will be hosted outside on the veranda and will follow all California State and Napa County health guidelines and precautions. Masks will be required for unvaccinated attendees.

About Atlas Peak Appellation
Winegrowing families and winemakers have been growing grapes and making wines of renown in Atlas Peak since 1870. The committed and passionate locals on Atlas Peak worked to distinguish their rocky, volcanic landscape as a unique and singular place, and the appellation gained its official status in 1992. The association believes in community, preserving the land, fostering new friendships, and sharing the furrowed beauty of their grape-growing region with wine enthusiasts and collectors, and world travelers. The Atlas Peak Appellation works to promote the prestige and enhance the reputation of Atlas Peak wines, as well as educate wine aficionados about the rare and distinct wines that Atlas Peak produces. To learn more about the Atlas Peak Appellation, please visit http://www.atlaspeakappellation.com on Facebook.com/AtlasPeakAVA, Instagram.com/AtlasPeakAVA or twitter.com/AtlasPeakAVA