Eve's Wine 101

Eve Discovers: Montepulciano D’Abruzzo DOC Wines

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As part of the Simply Italian Great Wines Tour, and organized by I.E.E.M. International Event and Exhibition Management, a group of over 40 wine bloggers, sommeliers and buyers attended a Master Class at the Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas that was devoted to the Montepulciano wine grape that is used in D’Abruzzo DOC wines. Before tasting seven organic and 100% Montepulciano wines, we learned a few things about the DOC from Master of Wine Brandon Tebbe and Davide Acerra with the Consorzio Tutela Vini d’Abruzzo. (Consorzio President Alexander Nicodemi was also in attendance.)

What We Learned

For my wine 101ers, before I give you my notes from the class let me clarify for you that the Montepulciano grape grown in the Abruzzo region of east central Italy is not the same grape found in the town named Montepulciano, which makes a wine mostly from Sangiovese grapes. Now, some of what we learned in bullet points:

  • This was the first time these wines have been tasted in Las Vegas. All are looking for importers.
  • There are approximately 250 wineries in the DOC, 10,000 grape producers, and 35 wine cooperatives.
  • The area has mountains on one side and the Adriatic Sea on the other. Lots of different terroirs. The current predominant area for vineyards is in Chieti that has gravel, sand and clay soil and is located near the sea.
  • Over 30% of the region is protected by four parks – three national and one regional. There are protected areas and nature reserves.
  • There are 1,000 square meters of grape growing area in total and its “rich in diversity” due to the big mountains on the west and the sea to the east.
  • Today we focused only on the red Montepulciano grape – 80% of the area produces this grape. The region also produces seven white grape varieties of wine.

What We Tasted

Tebbe talked us through a tasting of seven wines. He explained that they were very diverse in aromas and flavors. My husband Eddie also attended and some of the tasting notes below are his:

2021 Jasci and Marchesani AZ Agrobiologica: From a small family winery with sea-facing vineyards. Flavors were fruity, vanilla scented and quite dry. Eddie thought it was a great value at $20 a bottle, with red fruits, tannins and a medium finish.

2021 Santo Stefano by Cantine Mucci: Spent 6 months in 100% new American oak. A lot of bacon on the nose and mouth as well as black fruit and chocolate. An interesting wine. Eddie noted the ruby color, tobacco and oak on the nose, and a good balance.

2019 Rosarubra Vigne Lomanegra: This was my favorite wine in the tasting, and I had a chance to enjoy it again over lunch. A single vineyard wine, which had 24 months in barriques. It was quite juicy with black fruit, rose petals, vanilla, and just lovely to linger over. Eddie noted a lighter nose, with flavors of dark fruit, tannin and medium finish.

2019 Pasetti Tenutarossa: Grown at 1,650 foot elevation, and 12 months in bottle before release. The wine showed notes of mint, sour cherries, prunes and chocolate. Eddie got earth on the nose and dark fruit, tannins and acidity on the palate. He also thought it ageable and a good value wine at $15 to $22 a bottle.

2018 Talamonti SRL Tre Saggi: We were told that the words Tre Saggi translate to mean Three Wise Men. This wine was held for three years before release: one in 300-liter French barriques, the next in 300-liter French oak barrels and the last year was spent resting in the bottle. Both red and dark fruit, oak, and lots of tannins. On the nose Eddie got leather, a lushness, well-structured and ageable.

2018 Cantine Agriverde Plato: While the Three Wise Men took three years before release this wine was held for six: two years in stainless steel, two more in French oak barrels and the final two years resting in bottle. Lots of coffee, vanilla, cloves, cocoa adding up to a very dry and dark wine. Eddie found the wine earthy, balanced, structured and long lasting on the finish.  

2017 Cantina Frentana Costa Dei Trabocchi Vallevo: Our last wine was the oldest, proving that these wine could and should age. I found sour cherry notes in both the aroma and flavor, with the addition of spice and vanilla. This wine showed more fruit over tannin for Eddie, with a good balance and long finish.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in the 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 Proof Awards, Cellarmasters, LA Wine Competition, Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

The Second Edition of The “Barolo En Primeur” Charity Auction To Take Place on October 28, 2022

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NEW YORK (PRWEB) – The Barolo en Primeur auction will take place on October 28, 2022 at the Grinzane Castle in Piedmont, Italy, and will stream live to New York City. Like the first edition, the auction will feature 15 barriques, each yielding approximately 300 bottles of the most recent Barolo vintage, 2021. The event is organized by Cassa di Risparmio di Cuneo Foundation in partnership with the Consorzio di Tutela Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe e Dogliani, representing almost 540 wine producers in Piedmont, Italy, in collaboration with Christie’s global auction house, and internationally renowned wine critic, Antonio Galloni.

The first edition of Barolo En Primeur was an international success, raising an impressive donation of 660,000 euros for 17 charities. All donations were awarded directly to projects in the non-profit field, as selected by the organizers and donors.

“With this operation, the only one of its kind, CRC Foundation has created a charity event at the national and international level, focusing on a single territory, its beauties, singularities and products of excellence, creating an innovative event that will generate important social benefits,” commented Ezio Raviola, President of Cassa di Risparmio di Cuneo Foundation.

The 15 barriques that will be available at auction contain wine made from grapes from the historic Cascina Gustava Vineyard, Grinzane, a four-hectare (9.8 acres) vineyard dedicated solely to Nebbiolo, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The wine was produced and vinified by Donato Lanati, the internationally renowned enologist.

Again, this year the proceeds will be donated to social projects and initiatives in the fields of health, research, the arts and culture, as well as those promoting social inclusion and safeguarding of the Italian cultural heritage.

“The Barolo En Primeur event represents an initiative of highly scientific, educational and human value, capable of combining various aspects: the promotion of the wine-growing area, of which the vineyard is the mainstay, research with in-the-field teaching, and the important social aims pursued by the CRC Foundation,” explained Lanati.

In addition to the 15 barriques, this second edition will include participation from wine producers of the Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe and Dogliani Consortium, who will auction a selection of the most prized bottles of Barolo and Barbaresco coming from prestigious villages of both appellations, which include 10 lotti comunali (seven lots of Barolo 2021 from different Comuni (municipalities) and three 2021 Barbaresco lots).

“The Barolo en Primeur charity event is not only of great historical and social importance but is also highly significant for the Barolo wine sector, which is projected at an international level,” added Matteo Ascheri, President of the Consortium for the Protection of Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe and Dogliani.

The 300 bottles from each barrique and the bottles from the wineries will be ready in 2025, following the mandatory aging process for Barolo, and will be numbered and marked with a label specially created by an internationally renowned artist. This is a unique opportunity for wine connoisseurs, collectors, investors, and philanthropists, who are invited to take part in an international charity initiative that showcases one of the most world-renowned Italian wine appellations, its values of quality and sustainability, its territory, and the good causes that will benefit from it.

Ahead of Barolo en Primeur 2022, Antonio Galloni, who tasted the wine of each barrique, will publish his tasting notes in Vinous Media, so that potential bidders can read his opinion about how these rare wines capture the essence of Barolo and of the Gustava Vineyard, and their long ageability.

“The event offers collectors an unprecedented opportunity to participate in a philanthropic initiative of great importance and to benefit from a barrique of Barolo of the 2021 vintage, obtained from a specific parcel within a historic vineyard,” noted Antonio Galloni, Founder & CEO, Vinous. “Bidders should be encouraged by the rarity of the wines, the specially commissioned works of art and charitable causes, and all this contributes to making this initiative truly special.”

Information on how to take part in the auction can be found at http://www.fondazionecrcdonare.it

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About the Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Cuneo: On 24 January 1992, the Cassa di Risparmio di Cuneo Foundation was established, a private and independent non-profit body pursuing aims of social and economic benefit and promotion. The Foundation is inspired by philanthropic aims and makes contributions to public and private non-profit organizations as well as directly promoted projects in the fields of education, welfare, culture, local development, health, scientific research and sport. The initiatives are supported by the resources deriving from the management of the Foundation’s assets, which comfortably exceed one billion euros.

The Foundation’s activities aim to contribute to the development of the communities in its area, supporting their capacity for innovation and strengthening their cultural and educational offerings, so as to create more united and supportive social conditions. Teamwork in synergy with the territory, alongside the third sector and public bodies, in collaboration with citizens and institutions. With Barolo en Primeur, CRC Foundation has created a charity event at national and international level, focusing a territory, its beauties and singularities, creating an innovative event that can generate important social benefits.

About the Consorzio Di Tutela Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe e Dogliani: Founded in 1934 and representing over 500 wine producers across multiple appellations, the consortium is committed to the management, protection, and promotion of the Langhe, Alba, and Dogliani wine denominations. The Consortium ensures high quality by a set of formal production guidelines for the entire winemaking process, from agronomy to market surveillance. The Consortium continues to perform periodic sampling of wine products on the market to prevent fraud and to protect the wines’ authentication and reputation. Barolo & Barbaresco are registered trademarks in many countries throughout the world.

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.

Variety in Varietals: The “Rainbow” of Wine Choices from Bordeaux and Germany from Clink Different

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Did you know that there is a campaign to raise awareness about some of the “unsung heroes” from wine regions in Bordeaux and Germany? Clink Different, the perfect name in my opinion, started up in 2019, was pretty much frozen like everything else in 2020, and now for 2021 has begun anew.

I was recently invited onto a Zoom presentation called “Variety in Varietals” to taste four unsung heroes, while learning from Steffan Schlinder, of the German Wine Institute, and Cristie Norman, the President and Founder of the United Sommeliers Foundation. I will begin by sharing some of my notes of what we learned from Norman and Schlinder and then the tasting notes and food pairings provided by Norman, as well as some of my own notes.

What We Learned

Schlinder opened the meeting by sharing the similarities between the two wine growing regions: both are over 200 years old, both have cool climates and both are experienced in the industry. Varietals in Germany are divided by one third red and two thirds white. Orange wines are one example of a wine being made in both areas.

Norman explained that we don’t always have to enjoy only first growth wine Bordeaux, and that Germany and Bordeaux “have an entire rainbow of different wines to choose from”. Her theory on food and wine pairing is similar to decorating a home: pieces have to fit together, there needs to be balance, opposites and a respect for key elements. As far as wine costs, all of the four wines we were to taste were priced accessibly. Norman said that cult wines have become “astronomically expensive” and through her experience as a restaurant sommelier she has learned that people want to try new wines. She then led us through the wines.

Tasting the Wines and Food Pairing Suggestions

Of the four varietals below which is new for you? Norman asked that same question in our Zoom presentation. The only varietal I didn’t recall having had before was the Lemberger, now a varietal I will be looking for again.

And her mention about prices really sprang out as all of these wines cost less than what I expected them to be. Yep, that means I liked them all, and I would certainly buy these wines. (Notes: tasting notes and pairings are Norman’s, my additions are in italics.)

Silvaner: Weingut Strub 2019 Silvaner Trocken

SRP: $19. Green apple, cantaloupe, wet rock; with a medium acidity and freshness. Pair with salad, stir-fry, oysters; Indian food. This was my favorite wine in the line-up. And yes, we did enjoy with Indian food later!

Sauvignon Blanc: Dourthe 2019 La Grande Cuvée Bordeaux Sauvignon Blanc

SRP: $14. Lemon, grapefruit, cheese rind; limeade, green apple and a mild salinity. Pair with cream-based sauce over pasta, steamed clams, goat cheese; I agreed that this wine would do well with any cream sauce, and due to the ocean spray-ish salinity maybe even with some shellfish. We enjoyed the rest of the bottle poolside.

Lemberger: Schnaitmann 2017 Steinwiege Lemberger

SRP: $37. This wine, also referred to as a Blaufrankisch in the past but not so much today, had notes of blackberry, elderberry, sweet and sour cherries, vegetal; spices, dried red berries, a slight medicinal, a light red. Pair with duck, pasta with a red sauce, Chicken Shawarma; charcuterie and hard cheeses.

Petit Verdot: Château Belle-Vue 2018 Petit Verdot

SRP: $25. Blackberry, red and black cherry, black plum, grilled meat, vanilla, cream, purple flowers; big, bold, tannic, black pepper, spice on the nose, very dry. Pair with aged Gouda, skirt steak, Philadelphia Cheese Steak; I thought it would be great with a rich beef stew.

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.

Le Colture: A family secret in the heart of the Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore hills

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Santo Stefano di Valdobbiadene is a small village set in the vine-chequered mosaic of the Prosecco hills. Le Colture has grown wines here since the 1500s, under the guidance of the same family.

In 1983, Cesare Ruggeri launched its entry into the field of sparkling wines, and today it boasts an extraordinary heritage of expertise–know-how spread over a vast array of its own production secrets, both great and small; a deep understanding of its entire growing area and its vineyards; and an inborn sensitivity to the health and well-being of each vineyard.

For some years now, Cesare’s three children, Silvia, Alberto, and Veronica, have been intensely involved in winery activities, bringing to its operation a surge of enthusiasm and the invaluable innovative spirit characteristic of the young generations, without however forgetting love for their own land and respect for winemaking traditions.

Le Colture today extends for 40 directly-owned hectares of land planted with vines in the DOCG Conegliano Valdobbiadene area. This is an exception for this area.

The vineyards are partially situated near the company and partially distributed in other areas; from the territory of Valdobbiadene with a piece in the Cartizze hill to the Soligo hills up to the plateau of San Pietro di Feletto behind the historical city of Conegliano Veneto. The effect of this is the production of different wines with specific characteristics that are particular to very particular pedoclimatic situations.

The company preserves much of the tradition of the place and methods, but with an eye for innovation, both with regards to positioning and the product, thus obtaining immediate, fresh wines that are easily drinkable with special attention to quality.

On the wine-list:

Valdobbiadene D.O.C.G. Spumante Superiore di Cartizze
‘Cruner’ Valdobbiadene D.O.C.G. Spumante Dry
‘Pianer’ Valdobbiadene D.O.C.G. Spumante Extra
‘Fagher’ Valdobbiadene D.O.C.G. Spumante Brut
Rosè Spumante Brut
‘Mas’ Valdobbiadene D.O.C.G. Frizzante

Social Media channels:

Facebook: Le Colture Azienda Agricola
Instagram: lecolture_valdobbiadene

Web-site: 

Winery: https://www.lecolture.com/
Hospitality / Agriturismo Prime Gemme: https://www.lecolture.com/hospitality.html

Whitehall Lane Winery Released the First-Ever Camminare Noir and Paseante Noir Wines Made from California’s Newest Sustainable Grape Varieties Developed at UC Davis

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SAINT HELENA, Calif. /PRNewswire/ — These red wines were 20 years in the making; or rather, the grape vines took two decades to develop. Whitehall Lane joined forces with Dr. Andrew Walker of UC Davis and Dr. Paul Skinner of Vineyard Investigations in Napa Valley and planted these experimental grape varieties because they are highly resistant to Pierce’s disease. Pierce’s disease is caused by a bacterium spread by leafhopper insects called sharpshooters. It infects grape vines across the US and costs California grape growers more than $100 million per year.

“These varieties will hopefully make viticulture much more sustainable and provide a high-quality wine that the industry will welcome,” said Walker. Whitehall Lane owner Katie Leonardini agrees with Walker adding, “Rather than trying to manage the sharpshooter with insecticides and potentially harming other beneficial insects, these new rootstocks dovetail into our sustainable and green practices. And the wine is outstanding too!”

Whitehall Lane bottled the 2019 Camminare Noir and 2019 Paseante Noir wines as single, distinct varietals. These grapes from the winery’s Oak Glen Vineyard were harvested on October 15, 2019. Winemaker Jason Moulton kept the two small lots separate saying, “It was amazing how distinct these two wines were from color to flavor to texture.” He continued, “As they developed in our custom American oak barrels, it was evident that these were excellent stand-alone wines.”  The special American oak barrels were designed by Nadalie Cooperage in Calistoga, CA to specifically suit the characteristics of these new American wines.

The Camminare Noir profile is a cross between Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon and the wine has aromas and flavors of blackberries, raspberries, cherries and a dense tannin profile.

The Paseante Noir is a combination of Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, and Cabernet Sauvignon and delivers flavors of cassis, coffee, and berry.  Fewer than 25 cases of each were made and are available at the winery.

Whitehall Lane planted the two rootstocks in 2016 in their Oak Glen Vineyard. Dr. Walker, professor of viticulture and enology at UC Davis, developed the rootstock, creating grape varieties that provide high-quality wine while elevating the level of sustainable grape growing. “Whitehall Lane was constantly replanting dead vines infected by Pierce’s disease,” said Dr. Skinner. “I knew the Oak Glen vineyard was a perfect location for Walker’s experimental varieties.”

Whitehall Lane Winery is a family-owned and operated winery in Napa Valley’s historic Rutherford Appellation. They are dedicated to growing and making premium Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines from their eight estate vineyards.  They provide friendly hospitality at their Napa Valley winery and are Napa Green winery and vineyard certified with sustainable practices.

Dr. Walker is a faculty member of the Department of Viticulture and Enology at UC Davis.

His lab is actively involved in breeding wine grapes for resistance to Pierce’s disease.

Lake County Wines Reach New a Pinnacle

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KELSEYVILLE, Calif., PRNewswire — Lake County received the highest rating ever achieved by a wine from its region – receiving a 96 point rating for the 2016 Sol Rouge Petite Sirah from Wine Enthusiast Magazine.

Lake County, a small wine growing region directly north of Napa, used to be part of Napa County and was said to have grown as many grapes as Napa in the 1900s. However, the 1920 Prohibition brought an end to Lake County wine production as vines were removed and planted with other crops.

Lake County’s re-emergence in the wine industry began in the 1960s and grew from less than 100 acres in 1965 to nearly 10,000 acres today. Although large premium Napa Valley grape growers like Beringer and Beckstoffer Vineyards established themselves in the county, few wineries included “Lake County” on their labels, as most wine was often blended into that of Napa Valley and Sonoma wines.

In 2007, a dozen wineries in Lake County including Sol Rouge Winery, established the Lake County Winery Association to promote awareness. At the time, Lake County wines were relatively unknown or reviewed by the top wine magazines with only a few wines receiving a 90+ point rating. Most of these wines were made by Napa winemakers like Thomas Rivers Brown, maker of the Schrader Cellars Double Diamond Cabernet Sauvignon from Beckstoffer’s Amber Knolls Vineyard.

Today, the Lake County Winery Association has over three dozen vintners like Shannon Ridge, Gregory Graham, Brassfield, Hawk & Horse, and Obsidian Ridge, who commonly make wines in the 90-95 point range.  “We’ve seen a trend in higher ratings from all of our Lake County wineries and this rating is just another example of how wineries are producing world-class wines from Lake County,” said Helena Walsh, Director of Lake County Winery Association.

The 2016 Sol Rouge Petite Sirah put Lake County in a completely different league, scoring a 96 point rating by one of the top wine review magazines – the highest in the county’s 50+ year history of winemaking. “I actually never checked on how rare that rating was. I tasted the Sol Rouge Petite Sirah blind of course, along with a few other Petites from Lake and two other appellations, so when I scored it I didn’t know the AVA. It’s a magnificent wine and a great example of how good the Lake County terroir can be,” said Jim Gordon, Contributing Editor, Wine Enthusiast Magazine.

“When we planted the Sol Rouge Vineyard, we sought to grow the best possible grapes to make the finest wine we could,” said Bryan Kane, Co-Owner & Winemaker of Sol Rouge Vineyard & Winery. “When we came to Lake County, the highest rating from one of the Big 3 (Spectator, Enthusiast & Parker) was 92 points. So far, we’ve earned 90–94 points on 44 of our 51 Lake County wines, with the majority scoring 92-94 points.” Bryan attributes the higher scores amongst Lake County wines both improved winemaking and the excellent growing conditions.

“Lake County produces some of the most distinct winegrapes in the world, and over the years, we’ve seen a steady increase in recognition of the region’s wines,” said Debra Sommerfield, President of the Lake County Winegrape Commission. “This impressive rating further substantiates Lake County’s position as a top-tier winegrowing region.”

With all the recent devastation to the Napa and Sonoma wine growing regions caused by the Glass and LNU Lightning Complex fires, wineries have been looking to Lake County for grapes. Jim Smith of Case by Case Wine Brokers states, “We have been challenged as of late with the soaring demand of winegrapes from Lake County. I believe the work is out on what winemakers can expect from our wine growing region.”

“We are honored and excited to have received such a high rating on our 2016 Petite Sirah and expect that Sol Rouge and others will continue to aspire to make highly rated world class wines,” stated Jill Brothers, Sol Rouge Co-Owner and Winegrower.

ABOUT SOL ROUGE

Sol Rouge is a family estate located in the Mayacamas Mountains at elevations averaging over 1800 feet. North of Napa in the foothills of a dormant volcano which formed the North Coast wine country in the Red Hills Appellation of Lake County, this land contains rich, red volcanic soil and, from this unique profile, Sol Rouge derived its name – translating to “Red Soil” in French. This 70 acre estate is planted with Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cinsaut, Counoise, Zinfandel, Petite Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc in a “high vine density” configuration allowing each vine to focus on fewer clusters of fruit, leading to greater complexity. Nestled between Mt. Konocti and Benson Ridge, this aggressive sight is all hillside with slopes up to 60% and is said to be the most aggressive and tightly planted vineyard in the Red Hills, with nearly 6000 vines per hectare in some blocks. For more information, see http://www.solrouge.com

2016 Sol Rouge Petite Sirah Wine Enthusiast Magazine Review: https://www.winemag.com/buying-guide/sol-rouge-2016-petite-sirah-lake-county/

Tolosa Winery Announces New Futures Program for 2019 Single Vineyard Wines

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San Luis Obispo, Calif. — Tolosa winery, acclaimed producer of estate and single vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines from the Edna Valley, announced a look into the future of its much-anticipated 2019 Single Vineyard wines with private tastings of barrel samples.
Private seated tastings, available by appointment, are currently offered on the winery’s expansive outdoor patio, allowing guests the rare opportunity to explore these exclusive small-lot wines prior to release. The 2019 Single Vineyard wines will be released November 1, accompanied by the 2019 Primera, also scheduled to be released on November 1, 2020. Futures of the Primera and the Single Vineyard series wines are now available for purchase. Given the prestige of these limited-production bottlings, with under 250 cases of each produced, many of these wines are expected to sell-out prior to release.
“2019 was a textbook cool climate grape growing vintage. Harvest unfolded nicely, the mild weather letting us call for the perfect picking dates with no need to rush things, which is a nice feeling for once. In their youth, the wines are showing bright fruit (definitively on the red side for the Pinots and on the stone fruit one for the Chardonnays) and great freshness. And I am really excited about this, because it is also a guarantee of the aging potential they have,” said Winemaker Frederick Delivert.
Ideally situated close to the Pacific Ocean in California’s coolest wine region, Tolosa is blessed with a myriad of microclimates and soils that prove ideal for growing delicate Burgundian grapes. As a testament to the winery’s dedication to crafting exemplary Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Tolosa looks beyond Edna Valley for their Single Vineyard series, selecting the best sites and fruit for these varietals throughout California.
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The artisanal wines of the Single Vineyard series invite exploration of renowned appellations and acclaimed vineyards — including Tolosa’s own SIP Certified estate vineyard, Edna Ranch — confirming Edna Valley’s place in this distinguished company.
Through November, guests are invited to visit Tolosa to experience barrel samples of the 2019 Single Vineyard Series, each crafted with a similar approach in the cellar in order to capture the true essence of each vineyard and its unique terroir. The following wines are now available to taste:
Bien Nacido Vineyard Chardonnay, Santa Maria Valley 2019
This iconic vineyard in Santa Barbara County’s Santa Maria Valley AVA benefits from one of the longest growing seasons in California. Located 16 miles from the Pacific Ocean, the vineyard was first planted in 1973 and is acclaimed for its world-class Chardonnay. Situated at 600 feet of elevation on the valley floor, the site is punctuated by mild sunny days, an afternoon sea draft, and foggy nights and mornings to moderate the temperature of the vines. These conditions translate into a wine with vibrant acidity, recognized through essences of grapefruit, nectarine and pineapple. Oak aging in 35% new, lightly toasted puncheons adds notes of vanilla and walnuts, while partial Malolactic fermentation reveals fresh green apple flavors on the mineral-driven mid-palate. Tolosa is honored to be one of the few producers to source fruit from this highly sought-after vineyard located just south of us in the Santa Maria Valley.
Poletti – Edna Ranch Chardonnay, Edna Valley 2019
The Poletti portion of Edna Ranch is located on the mountainside slopes of the Edna Valley — home to block 569, featuring own-rooted Tepesquet Chardonnay vines. The slopes offer more sun exposure, while the vineyard sits in the direct path of the coastal sea breeze, offering a cooler temperature to maintain natural acidity and citrusy aromatics. After completing malolactic fermentation, the wine was aged in 30% new, lightly toasted oak puncheons, allowing it to develop a creamy, seamless texture layered with notes of hazelnut, citrus and stone fruit. This elegant Chardonnay encapsulates the Edna Valley, with a refined structure and uplifting acidity that stands out on the finish.
El Coro Vineyard Pinot Noir, Petaluma Gap 2019
El Coro translates to “The Chorus” in Spanish. This site is farmed by the Keller family and is located within the Petaluma Gap AVA, the premier gateway to the Sonoma Coast. Located just 7.5 miles from San Pablo Bay, here maritime wind and fog roar into the region cooling off the vines, while less sun exposure from north-facing slopes contributes to the wine’s bright, complex berry fruit flavors. Adding to its appeal is a silky texture and racy acidity that lingers on the impressively long finish. In reverence to its name, this wine brings harmony to the palate.
Apex Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands 2019
Farmed by the Franscioni family, Apex Vineyard is located 28 miles from the cold water of Monterey Bay in the heart of the renowned Santa Lucia Highlands. The vineyard rests high atop a bench receiving morning sun exposure before being influenced ever so slightly by the daily fog and ocean winds. Typical of its region, this wine paints itself darker, lending more robust flavors of juicy fruit, ripened cherry and sweet spice. This is a Pinot Noir for the Cabernet lover.
Solomon Hills Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley 2019
Solomon Hills Vineyard takes its name from Salomon Pico, a celebrated bandit who travelled frequently along the El Camino Real in the 1850s — and may have inspired the legend of Zorro. This acclaimed Santa Barbara County vineyard is located at the westernmost end of the Santa Maria Valley AVA, where its close proximity just 10 miles to the Pacific Ocean reveals itself through the wines that flourish in its sandy soils. Floral and red fruit aromas carry on through the palate, showcasing notes of pomegranate, raspberry, cherry and rose petals that integrate seamlessly into its fine-grained tannic structure.
Drum Canyon Vineyard Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2019
Farmed by the Dierberg family, Drum Canyon Vineyard thrives in the eminent Sta. Rita Hills AVA of Santa Barbara County. Adjacent to the Pacific Ocean, the region is famous for its transverse mountain range, which allows strong coastal breezes to drift through the vines. These cooling influences, coupled with the vineyard’s sandy loam soils, produce a beautifully structured Pinot Noir with velvety tannins and signature notes of dark cherry, cola and raspberry. A more structured Pinot Noir than many others in the line-up, this is a wine with well-developed tannins that will soften beautifully as it ages.
Gunsalus Vineyard Pinot Noir Green Valley of Russian River Valley 2019
The newest single vineyard Pinot Noir in the series balances the collection as an excellent cellar addition for the wine enthusiast. This small vineyard resides 12 miles from the coast at an elevation of 242 feet in the Green Valley region of Sonoma’s Russian River Valley, known for its maritime fog that rolls in and lingers throughout the day. Big and bold in structure, this garnet-colored Pinot Noir leads with aromas of black cherry, strawberry, pine and rose petal. Bright red fruit, fig and tobacco flavors linger on the palate, accented by gentle mouth-coating tannins on the flawless finish.
Hollister – Edna Ranch Pinot Noir, Edna Valley
Located in the core of the Edna Valley, the Hollister section of Tolosa’s home vineyard, Edna Ranch, is the closest to the Pacific Ocean. Located just 5 miles away, it receives a moderating maritime influence to maintain composed acidity in the grapes, while varied soils, including chalky limestone and sand, contribute to the minerality and complexity in this wine. Made from a single block in the vineyard, Block 579, the wine displays aromas of blood orange, wild strawberry, anise and rose petals. Black cherry notes shine on the palate, which is layered with stone fruit and clove to express an exceptional sense of place.
Primera Pinot Noir, Edna Valley 2019
Tolosa’s flagship Primera demonstrates the full potential of the varietal, revealing what makes Pinot Noir one of the most coveted grapes in the world. Primera is a small-lot selection of the best of Tolosa’s estate vineyard, Edna Ranch, located a mere 5 miles from the Pacific Ocean. Here, daily fog and prevailing winds funnel into the transverse valley from Morro Bay, cooling off the vines. The result is a wine of power and length characterized by notes of hibiscus, strawberry and dried herbs, enhanced by a seamless mouthfeel and structure. This is truly a vintage-specific statement Pinot Noir for the oenophile looking to add a marquee wine to their cellar.
Futures of the Single Vineyard 2019 series as well as the Primera 2019 are available to taste by appointment through October 2020, with tastings available to both Club Members and non-members. Purchase of wine futures is available prior to their release, November 2020. Tolosa also invites qualified media to look behind the curtain at the winery with a tasting of the Single Vineyard Series. For media inquiries, please contact: Linda@parkersanpei.com.
About Tolosa
Cowboy dreams of owning a cattle ranch brought Robin Baggett to California’s Edna Valley over 40 years ago. The cold Pacific wind and soils from ancient seabed to limestone made him realize he was on a frontier of a different sort. Tolosa is the expression of his commitment to spare no effort to craft Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines of distinctive character to rival any in the world. Founded in 1998 and guided by the core values of integrity, teamwork and meticulous craftsmanship, Tolosa is committed to creating complex, balanced and nuanced wines that are the purest expressions of Edna Valley. The Tolosa winemaking team combines traditional winemaking techniques and cutting-edge technology to achieve the purest translation of place to taste. Tolosa supports numerous environmental and philanthropic initiatives and is an active member of the Central Coast community, welcoming guests daily to enjoy its trademark gracious hospitality and a variety of luxury tasting experiences surrounded by its Sustainability in Practice (SIP) Certified vineyard, Edna Ranch. Tolosa is open daily at 4910 Edna Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. You can find them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter or visit the website at tolosawinery.com.

Oregon’s Willamette Valley Welcomes Two New Nested Appellations

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PORTLAND, ORE. (PRWEB) – With the recent addition of Tualatin Hills and the Laurelwood District AVAs, the state of Oregon is now home to 21 federally recognized winegrowing regions. The regions, called American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), offer unique winemaking conditions thanks to a combination of widely varied physical geology and climate.

From Willamette Valley Wineries on Facebook.

Both areas are situated in the northern Willamette Valley and were granted approval on June 3rd. Local wineries had petitioned the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) years earlier for the additions to the wine country map, citing distinctive features like soil type and elevation, which in turn lead to distinctive wines. They join fellow Oregon AVAs including Eola-Amity Hills, Umpqua Valley and The Rocks Districts of Milton-Freewater and more, adding to the state’s eclectic winegrowing landscape. The expansive Willamette Valley now totals ten AVAs.

Tualatin Hills is the larger of the two new zones, composed of 144,000 acres encompassing the northern hills of Tualatin River watershed, minutes west of Portland, Oregon’s most populous city. The elevation of the AVA ranges from 200 to 1,000 feet, set in a temperate rain shadow cast by the nearby Coast Range. It’s the northernmost AVA in the Willamette Valley and includes the towns of Helvetia, North Plains and Forest Grove and is bordered to the south by Gaston.

With its 21 AVAs ranging from the Willamette Valley south to the Rogue Valley and spanning 600 miles east to the Snake River Valley bordering Idaho, Oregon’s list of AVAs is second only to California’s (which has a total of 107). Reflecting the ever-growing wine industry at large, the U.S. now has 248 AVAs from coast to coast.

Sally Murdoch, communications manager for the Oregon Wine Board said, “Oregon has almost 12% of the AVAs in the country, yet we produce only about 1.5% of the nation’s wine.” She added. “With two new AVAs, this is great recognition for our almost 800 wineries and our state’s clearly differentiated regions, underscoring that Oregon truly is unique in the global landscape.”

Leading the charge for recognition was Alfredo Apolloni of Apolloni Vineyards, along with Mike Kuenz of David Hill Vineyard and Winery and Rudy Marchesi of Montinore Estate. Producers note the elegant style of Pinot Noir made in this distinctive stretch of land, often showing blackberry, cherry and spice notes. All told, 40 wineries and vineyards are located in the Tualatin Hills AVA, including Patton Valley Vineyard and Elk Cove Vineyards.

“It’s terrific to spotlight such a singular spot of the Oregon wine country map,” says Apolloni. “With an incredible diurnal shift and grape-friendly soils, it’s no wonder some of Oregon’s first wineries settled here. We can’t wait to further the story of the Tualatin Hills through expressive wines beyond Pinot noir.”

The Laurelwood District AVA is smaller at 33,600 acres, and is situated on the northeast facing flank of the Chehalem Mountains, near Beaverton and Sherwood. The Laurelwood District extends throughout the northeastern reaches of the Chehalem Mountains, where the topography reaches more than 1,600 feet above sea level. The name refers to the prevalent soil type that defines the wines from this area. Unlike other Oregon AVAs, this AVA is defined by a unique soil type that is predominantly found in this part of the Willamette Valley. Here, Laurelwood soils dominate; this windblown loess soil type was brought in by the Missoula Floods thousands of years ago.

Spearheading the call for the nested appellation was one of the state’s most established winemaking families, the Ponzis. Second-generation proprietors Maria and Luisa Ponzi teamed up with Kevin Johnson and Beth Klingner of Dion Vineyard in requesting federal approval. Ponzi Vineyards joins 29 other producers and 70 vineyards operating within the new appellation, including Cooper Mountain Vineyards and Hawks View Winery.

Luisa Ponzi says the process has taken more than a decade.
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“We’re thrilled to be able to officially advertise the unique qualities at play due to our soil in our very specific pocket within the Willamette Valley,” the winemaker says. “Consumers are more and more interested in the origin story of their goods and wine has always told that story. With the addition of the Laurelwood District, wine drinkers will become aware of why and how what’s bottled from this area stands out.”

The two newest AVAs are the toast of both the industry and consumers who look to celebrate Oregon’s one-of-a-kind appellations and the “sense of place” in a wine’s flavor and makeup. Wineries and vineyards within these designations, on July 6 2020, can market their work as such, whether it be on the wine label itself or in other branding narratives.

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

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. Memorial Weekend in the Wine Country and Wine Country Thanksgiving are the two oldest WVWA–sponsored touring events in Oregon. Visit http://www.willamettewines.com for more info.

List of wineries and vineyards in the Laurelwood District AVA:

A Blooming Hill Vineyard and Winery
Alloro Estate Vineyard
Anne Amie Twelve Oaks Estate Benjamin Vineyard
Anne Amie Twelve Oaks Estate Boisseau Vineyard
Anne Amie Twelve Oaks Estate Louise Vineyard
Anne Amie Twelve Oaks Estate Marilyn Vineyard
Anne Amie Twelve Oaks Estate Robert Vineyard
Anne Amie Twelve Oaks Estate Justin Grand Vineyard
Arbre Vert Vineyard
Archer Vineyard
Ardiri Winery and Vineyards
August Cellars Vineyard
Bailey Estate Vineyards
Barking Frog
Blakeslee Vineyard Estate
Buteo Vineyard
Chateau Lebeau Vineyard
Chehalem Corral Creek Vineyard
Chehalem Schaad Vineyard
Chehalem Crossing Family Estate Vineyards
Cloudrest Vineyard
Cooper Mountain Vineyards Johnson School Vineyard
Dion Vineyards
Domaine Sardine
Elk Cove Five Mountain Vineyards
Finnigan Hill Vineyard
Freja Hughes Vineyard
Freja Musso Vineyard
Freja Vineyards
Gemini Vineyard
Grapehead Vineyard
Gresser Vineyard
Hamacher Wines Paloma Vineyard
Hawks View Vineyard
J. Albin Winery Laurel Vineyard
Jesse Estate Vineyard
JNF Vineyard
La Cantera
La Luce Vineyard
Linda Vista Vineyard
Madrona Hill Vineyard
Manissa-Jo Vineyard
Manuela Vineyard
Mooney Vineyard
Nicholas Vineyard
Owen Roe Anna’s Vineyard
Ponzi Abetina Vineyard
Ponzi Aurora Vineyard
Ponzi Avellana Vineyard
Ponzi Madrona Vineyard
Raptor Ridge Estate Vineyard
Rex Hill Burnt Tree Vineyard
Rex Hill Estate Vineyard
Rex Hill Hoy Vineyard
Ross Vineyard
Ruby Vineyard
Sheets Vineyard
Starling Crest
Sufi Vineyard
Tannehill Vineyard
The Potter’s Vineyard
Three Cedars Vineyard
Triple H Vineyard
Tuenge Vineyards
Vista Grande Vineyard
Xander Taryn Vineyard

Wineries and Vineyards in the Tualatin Hills AVA:

Aggravation Hill Vineyard
Apolloni Vineyards
Bednarik
Bramblett Vineyards
Cancilla Cellars
Carpenter Creek Farms Vineyard
Cherry Grove
Cochran Vineyard
Courting Hill
Covey Ridge
David Hill Vineyards
Eagles Nest Reserve
Echo Hill Vineyard
Elk Cove – Windhill Vineyard
Helvetia
Highgrove Farms
Loeza Vineyard
Mason Ridge Farms
Mason Ridge Vineyard
Meier Vineyards
Merten Vineyards
Montinore Estate
NV Hill Farm
Patton Valley Vineyard
Petalous Vineyard
Plum Hill Vineyards
Provincial Vineyards
Purple Cow Vineyards
R. Marchesi Vineyard
Scotch Church Road Vineyard
Shafer Vineyards
Shumaker Vineyards
Stormy Morning Vineyard
Tualatin Estate Vineyard
Willamette Valley Vineyards – Peter Michael
Willamette Valley Vineyards – Meadowview
Windearth Vineyard
Wirtz Vineyard

Crus Bourgeois du Médoc Announces the Official Selection of The New 2020 Classification

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NEW YORK (PRWEB) – The Crus Bourgeois du Médoc (http://www.crubourgeois.com), one of the oldest and most prestigious classifications in Bordeaux, published their new, highly anticipated three tier 2020 Crus Bourgeois du Médoc Classification on February 20, 2020.

On this date, a page was turned for the Crus Bourgeois du Médoc and their annual quality assessment procedure. The new classification will now be awarded for five years and consist of three categories: Cru Bourgeois, Cru Bourgeois Superieur and Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel. A clear, impartial, objective classification which will enable consumers to buy Crus Bourgeois with complete confidence.

A Hierarchical, Five-year Classification

The first classification will be featured on the labels of the selected Chateaux for the 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 vintages. The classification also introduces a hierarchical structure with three levels: Cru Bourgeois, Cru Bourgeois Superieur and Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel. The Cru Bourgeois family will now be evaluated every 5 years.

249 Châteaux ranked:

  • 179 Crus Bourgeois
  • 56 Crus Bourgeois Superieurs
  • 14 Crus Bourgeois Exceptionnels
  • The New Classification: An Approach That Rewards Properties and Reassures Consumers

Almost 10 years of preparation and consultation were necessary to obtain consent from the public authorities for the creation of this new classification, which recognizes the quality of winegrowers work and gives them a longer-term view of their property’s wine, thereby facilitating projects and investments. For consumers, the classification is a guarantee of quality that enables them to choose a Cru Bourgeois in complete confidence.

  • An Objective, Impartial Classification

Based on a schedule of requirements and a rigorous verification procedure, the entire classification process is overseen by an independent verification body to ensure a fair and honest ranking. This body ensures impartiality at all stages.

  • Wine Quality & Additional Criteria

Blind tasting of five vintages is the first criteria on which properties applying for classification are judged, with different requirements for each level. The higher categories of “Cru Bourgeois Superieur” and “Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel” are assessed on two main additional sets of criteria: the technical management of the vineyard and the marketing and promotion of the property.

  • Recognition of Environmentally Friendly Winegrowing Practices

The classification also includes environmental criteria: depending on the classification level, properties must have or be in the process of obtaining level 2 High Environmental Value certification.

About the Crus Bourgeois du Médoc
The Crus Bourgeois du Médoc (http://www.crus-bourgeois.com) form the largest family of Bordeaux crus from some of the most prestigious appellations of the Left Bank. This family brings together vineyards with widely differing profiles and terroirs that satisfy a drastic set of requirements. Thanks to its yearly blind selection process, the Crus Bourgeois du Médoc guarantee consumers a standard of quality for every bottle that proudly bears the “Cru Bourgeois” label.