Eve's Wine 101

Guide to Santa Barbara Wine Country, Courtesy The Leta Hotel

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Santa Barbara County may be rightly famous for its reliably mild weather and sun-splashed scenery but these enviable assets have also made it a prized destination for wine lovers. Geography tells the story. 

Several million years ago, the mountains that rose along the Pacific Coast of North America mostly ran from north to south. But here in what’s now Santa Barbara County, the nascent peaks decided to veer off course and sprinted the opposite direction: east to west.  

This extraordinary geographic anomaly created a protected south-facing pocket of paradise, tucked between soaring peaks and offshore islands, where visitors and residents revel in a balmy climate amid stunning natural scenery.  

It also gave birth to an exceptionally diverse grape-growing region that lured winemaking pioneers starting in the 1960s. The towering peaks and sloping hillsides funnel cool winds and fog nearly 40 miles from the ocean through river valleys. The result? Myriad microclimates and a superior environment for premium wine grape cultivation.  

Santa Barbara County eventually earned an international reputation for world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Fast-forward to 2021, when Wine Enthusiast lauded Santa Barbara County as the world’s Wine Region of the Year.  

No matter what varietal your palate prefers, you’ll probably find it here. Santa Barbara County vineyards produce more than 70 varietals, primarily Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, and Cabernet, in seven approved AVAs (American Viticulture Areas). More than 275 wineries speckle the landscape in rural northern Santa Barbara County and line the streets of cities, towns, and villages.  

How to Choose With so many choices, what’s a wine lover to do? Start with a virtual visit to Santa Barbara Vintners, where you’ll find loads of info, including trails, maps, tours, and brief winery descriptions with links to websites.

Regional wineries range from rustic cottages to palatial manors. In recent years, the area has become known for its sustainable farming methods and holds a plethora of biodynamic, organic, and regenerative vineyards.  

Short on time? Head to the Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail, with more than 30 wine-tasting rooms in six neighborhoods on the South Coast. Many wineries have two tasting locations: downtown Santa Barbara and another close to north county vineyards.

Want someone else to do the driving? Check out these wine tour companies.  

You can also maximize your time by focusing on tasting-room hubs. More than 40 tasting rooms line several walkable blocks in historic Los Olivos, a throw-back pioneer town about a 40-minute drive from The Leta Hotel.

Standouts include Coqueliquot, Larner, Future Perfect, Holus Bolus, and Blair Fox Cellars. Wineries also cluster in Lompoc, about a 50-minute drive from Goleta in wine country’s far western edge in the Santa Rita Hills.

Those in downtown Santa Barbara, just a 12-minute drive from The Leta Hotel, are a quick and popular option to try new regional wines, such as Melville, Santa Barbara Winery, Riverbench, and The Valley Project. 

Select vintners will offer tastings on Friday evenings at The Leta Hotel from May through the summer. Past wineries have included Grassini, Fess Parker, SAMsARA, Carr, and Santa Barbara Winery. In addition, The Leta Restaurant serves several Santa Barbara County wines, including J. Wilkes Pinot Blanc, Jackson Estate Chardonnay, Point & Line Sauvignon Blanc, Carr Pinot Gris, Nielson by Byron Pinot Noir, Zaca Mesa ‘Z’ cuvée, Margerum M5 Rhône blend, and Refugio Ranch Barbareño. The VIP amenity wine is a Pinot Noir that comes from the oldest winery in the region, Santa Barbara Winery.  

Wineries to Visit Here are a few top picks to inspire your adventures and give you a small taste of the amazing depth and breadth of Santa Barbara County wine country. Be sure to check hours and whether reservations are required or recommended. 

Alma Rosa In 2005 pioneering winemaker Richard Sanford and his wife Thekla severed ties with their namesake winery and launched a new venture at their El Jabali vineyard estate in the Sta. Rita Hills appellation: eco-friendly Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyard. The Sanfords no longer own the winery and vineyard, but still play important roles as consultants and hosts. Winemaker Samra Morris, who hails from Bosnia, crafts small lots of single-vineyard Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Rhône varietals, and sparkling wines. Sample them in a stunning new tasting room with indoor/outdoor seating in downtown Solvang, a 40-minute drive from Goleta. Try to book a private tasting at the historic ranch house on the 628-acre estate, where the Sanfords planted the region’s first certified organic grapes in 1983. You can also sign up for vineyard hike-and-taste experiences.  

Babcock Bryan Babcock has made wines since the early 1980s and helped establish the Sta. Rita Hills AVA. He’s also widely considered one of the best winemakers in the county and has won numerous awards for estate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and other wines. The family-run enterprise sits on Highway 246 near Lompoc on the western edge of wine country. This is a don’t-miss experience, not only because you’ll taste top-notch wines, but also amble around the hip and quirky tasting complex, which includes a huge, repurposed warehouse filled with an eclectic array of vintage furnishings, clothing, décor, and collectibles. Babcock continues to pioneer new techniques, most recently in regenerative farming. 

Folded Hills Descendants of the famous Anheuser-Busch empire founders run this small winery, ranch, and farmstead in a magical country setting right off Highway 101, 30 minutes from The Leta Hotel. Wine grapes grow alongside 18 acres of organic row crops, fruit orchards, and a collection of animals that range from Budweiser Clydesdales, sheep, and goats to a camel and a zebra. The winery specializes in Rhône varietals and pours tastes in a contemporary space amid oaks and redwoods at the ranch, and in an upscale tasting room in Montecito, close to downtown Santa Barbara. 

Gainey Vineyard The fourth generation of the Gainey family currently runs the vast Gainey Ranch, which encompasses nearly 2,000 acres of farmland and vineyard estates. The Home Ranch in Santa Ynez Valley produces Bordeaux varietals, while a property in the cooler Santa Rita Hills vineyard focuses on Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. Try the various vintages at the Spanish-style hacienda or outdoors on the expansive lawn or arbor-shaded veranda — a fantastic spot for a picnic.  

Buttonwood Winery & Vineyard Sip wine and picnic amid orchards, gardens, and groves of native buttonwood trees (aka sycamores) at this 106-acre working farm-turned-winery on Alamo Pintado Road, a five-mile country road that connects Solvang and Los Olivos. Buttonwood grows sustainably farmed Bordeaux and Rhône-style grapes in its 39-acre vineyard, and longtime winemaker Karen Steinwachs has transformed them into quality wines since 2007. Buttonwood’s flagship wines are Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernets.  

Zaca Mesa The Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, which begins in Los Olivos, wends its way for 20 miles through some of California’s most scenic countryside. Chance Corbin, The Leta Hotel’s food and beverage general manager, says “Foxen Canyon is really the main trail in wine country. I always recommend it as it’s really popular with guests.” Zaca Mesa — a star along the trail — is a 1,752-acre property on a wild and rugged site the native Chumash called zaca, or “restful place.” The family-owned and -operated winery, established in 1973, specializes in handcrafted, single-vineyard Rhône-style estate-grown wines. In 1978 Zaca Mesa planted the first Syrah in Santa Barbara County; this vineyard block still produces low-yield grapes with intense flavor for the winery’s coveted Black Bear Syrah.

Arizona’s Female Winemakers

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Did you know that many of Arizona’s wineries are female owned and/or operated? The state’s governor recently recognized the flourishing wine region as an important sector in agribusiness, employment, and tourism by designating this past March 2022 as Arizona’s first official Wine Month. Here is a list of some of the women helping create Arizona’s award winning wines:

Julia Dixon, Winemaker, 1764 Vineyards

 Julia Dixon’s passion for winemaking didn’t begin until her 24th wedding anniversary in October 2012 during a visit to the Verde Valley. Two years later she moved from Phoenix to Cottonwood and began her studies in viticulture and enology at Yavapai College. After her graduation in 2016, Julia and her husband purchased their own land in Pearce,  founded 1764 Vineyards, and she began interning at Four Tails Vineyard. Today, Julia is the head winemaker at their 30-acre property working with Petit Verdot, Picpoul Blanc, and Vermentino varieties.  

Brooke Lowry Ide, Winemaker, Vino Stache Winery

Brooke’s winemaking journey began in 2014 when she enrolled at Yavapai College studying viticulture and enology. She has interned at Four Eight Wineworks, Caduceus Cellars, Merkin Vineyards, and Callaghan Vineyards. In 2019, she began her one-woman operation at her own winery, Vino Stache Winery. She has delayed planting on her 54-acre property, but is building her brand with fruit sourced from several Arizona growers. Her first wines were bottled in 2021. 

Megan Stranik, Co-Owner, AZ Hops & Vines

Megan was introduced to the world of winemaking at Sonoita Vineyard where she spent a year as a volunteer, helping tend the farm. For many years after, she worked at various wineries learning the process of winemaking, but owning her own winery was always her goal. Today, she co-owns AZ Hops & Vines with her sister, Shannon, where you can almost always find her tending to the vineyards.

Shannon Austin Zouzoulas, Co-Owner, AZ Hops & Vines

Shannon grew up in Southern California and attended the University of Maryland. After returning to California, she began volunteering at wineries and festivals and began conspiring with her sister on how to get into the industry themselves. While her sister handles viticulture and oenology, Shannon was inspired in the marketing, hospitality and agro-tourism side of the business. She spends her days creating fun events, meeting great people, trying new wines, and marketing their winery.

Monica Preston, Owner, Birds & Barrels Vineyards

Monica Preston founded Birds & Barrels Vineyards on 50-acres of land with her husband Chad in 2015 with the goal of crafting ultra-premium Arizona wines. Though she does not have a background in viticulture, her passion and drive to learn has been helpful on this adventure. Monica handles water management, herbicide and pesticide management, fertilizer regiments in the vineyard, vine assessments, petiole, and fruit sampling prior to harvest. She also handles the wine club and Founders program planning and coordination. Though they have been called crazy many times along this journey, they remain ambitious and plan to expand while planting in 2023.

Gayle Glomski, Bree Nation, Lauren Maldonado, Page Springs Cellars 

Gayle, Bree, and Lauren all work at Page Springs Cellars in Cornville, Arizona where most of the workers are women. The three came together and collaborated on Vin de Filles (Girls’ wine in French), a wine produced by women to highlight feminine strength within the world of wine. The women care for specific rows of vines for their entire growing cycle, then bring their harvest to the cellar to ferment, press, and bottle their wine. The majority of profits from the sales of these wines benefit The Verde Valley Sanctuary, a local nonprofit that supports women who are victims of domestic abuse, assault, and human trafficking. This project not only empowers women in wine, but also in the community.

Valerie Wood, Heart Wood Cellars 

Valerie Wood moved to Arizona with her husband Daniel in 2009 for a new lifestyle and plans to contribute and participate in the growing sector of the Arizona wine industry. In 2013, she began studying viticulture and enology at Yavapai College in the Verde Valley while working part time at the Yavapai College Southwest Wine Center planting the college’s new vineyard. In 2015 she graduated with honors and her degree and was invited to join the Four Eight Wineworks-Caduceus Cellars winery family. In 2016 Heart Wood Cellars released its first vintage following the guidelines of their business model – to craft wines they love and want to share with others. 

Desiree Gerth, Owner and Winemaker, Strive Vineyards 

Desiree Gerth moved to Arizona with her husband shortly after graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. While on a weekend vacation to Arizona wine country, they decided to try to make their own wine with a home winemaking kit purchased from a local brew shop. Though the first batch was undrinkable, they persisted, first creating an in-home winery and then looking for their own land in Willcox. She and her husband with the help of family and friends have built everything themselves from the ground up – fencing, gates, irrigation systems, trellis systems, utility shed and more. They are completely off-grid utilizing solar power for their well pump and green, sustainable farming practices. In 2018 she began her professional winery career at Golden Rule Vineyards, and today oversees administration and operations for Strive Vineyards and works in all areas of wine production, winery management, and operations at Cochise Wine Co.

Peggy Fiandaca, Owner/Brand Manager, LDV Winery

After an incredibly successful career in Urban Planning, Peggy and her husband set out on their “second act” – wine. Wine was always a passion they shared; they traveled the world drinking, collecting, and absorbing everything they could about wine. They are often asked if owning a winery was their lifelong dream, but it was purely serendipitous (or a mid-life crisis). LDV winery sits on a 40-acre property, grows Rhone grape varieties, and produces about 2,500-3,000 cases per year. On a day to day basis, Peggy is responsible for strategic planning and analytics, wine marketing, public relations, sales, tasting room operations, contracts, regulations, trademarks, website, social media and all staffing. Peggy has served on the Arizona Wine Growers Association board as Secretary and President for two terms. She is a member of Les Dames d’Escoffier International and Women at the Top, a female business owner networking group.

Carla Milić, Wineworker, Los Milics Vineyard

Carla was born and raised in Chile, but the bulk of her training has been in Sonoita with local winemakers. She took a few courses at the University of California, Davis and also assisted during a harvest in Chile. Los Milics Vineyard is located in Elgin; it sits on 20 acres with 12.5 acres being under vine. Since the winery opened for tastings, Carla is responsible for greeting guests and guiding them through their tasting and providing tours of the construction site where the new tasting room and casitas will be located. Once harvest peaks, Carla will be receiving fruit, processing, cleaning, and monitoring fermentations. Her favorite part of the job is nurturing vines from infancy through their entire growth cycle. Carla continues to be inspired by other independent and hardworking women in the wine industry.

Ann Roncone, Owner/Winemaker, Lightning Ridge Cellars

Ann was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay area. She worked an office job and winemaking was her hobby. For about five years, she read books on winemaking and viticulture, planted vines at home, took courses at the University of California, Davis, and worked harvests at local wineries. When she and her husband decided to pursue a career in wine, they couldn’t afford land in California, and decided to visit the Arizona viticulture area as her husband had gone to college in Tucson. In 2003, they purchased land in the Sonoita/Elgin AVA and in 2004 they began the process of starting a vineyard and winery from scratch. Lightning Ridge Cellars is located in Elgin and specializes in Italian varietals. It is hard to say what she enjoys most about winemaking, but the amount of time she spends outside is definitely among the top things.  

Kim Reed, Assistant Manager/Wine Club Coordinator, Javelina Leap Vineyard, Winery & Bistro

Kim came into the wine industry somewhat by accident after working in a community care and hospital as a Registered Dietitian for 10 years. Her in-laws, Rod and Cynthia Snapp own Javelina Leap, and when her husband Lucas took over as GM and head winemaker, it was quickly apparent that he was going to need help. In March 2020, Kim joined the family business, initially as the Wine Club and Event Coordinator. Since then, her role has grown to include helping the tasting room manager, serving as office manager, booking bands, shipping wine, answering emails and filling in the gaps wherever needed. Most of her wine knowledge comes from being around the business and family the last seven years, however she will be pursuing a Level 1 Sommelier certification in the future.  

Lori Dutt Reynolds, Winemaker, Sonoita Vineyards 

Lori is a third generation winemaker in Arizona with a Certificate in Enology and Viticulture from the University of California, Davis. She was inspired to join the wine industry by her grandfather, Dr. Gordon Dutt – the founder of the Arizona Wine Industry. Lori loves the art and science behind creating wine and her favorite parts of the job are blending wine and working in the vineyards with her family. It is important to her to have her children involved in Sonoita Vineyards to work and learn the wine industry first hand like she did.

Young Italian Winemakers Champion Sustainability and Innovation

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NEW YORK (PRWEB) – Five days before the ministers of agriculture representing the world’s largest economies met in Florence, Italy, for a G20 summit, a group of young Italian wine professionals held a symposium of their own. AGIVI, the Association of Young Italian Wine Entrepreneurs, hosted the convention on Sept. 12, 2021, at the same city’s Palazzo Vecchio, to discuss some of the most pressing questions about the future of Italian wine. How would wine fit into the global drive toward sustainability, also a G20 focus? And, more broadly, how could the up-and-coming generation in the industry reach young wine lovers in an increasingly competitive global marketplace?

“Young people think, plan and work in a green mindset”, said Violante Gardini Cinelli Colombini, president of AGIVI, which is a branch of the national UIV (Unione Italiana Vini) and export sales manager of Casato Prime Donne winery in Montalcino. “From the vineyard to the cellar, ranging from the choice of packaging to that of transport to the services offered in the company, the initiatives of the new generations are increasingly developed from a sustainable perspective, with specific actions aimed at achieving objectives that are as respectful of the environment as possible.”

According to a survey made on the AGIVI members, 94% believe sustainability provides a decisive competitive edge, with nearly 70% choosing suppliers based in part on the sustainability of their proposals. Another survey presented at the convention found that 70% of millennial wine tourists would be more likely to visit wineries with ethical labor practices, and 70% favored companies that helped disadvantaged communities. Canned wines, carbon emissions and pesticide alternatives have also been hot topics in AGIVI’s ongoing dialogue about sustainability.

While AGIVI has been exploring environmental and social initiatives, its members have also been navigating new technologies in viticulture and sales, along with new platforms, customers and tastes—while preserving the heritage that has long made Italian wine unique. In 2021, AGIVI members gathered to exchange knowledge in regions like Umbria and Trentino; they contributed to social media webinars, and panels and tastings at Vinitaly and in New York. Along the way, they discussed creative enotourism, labeling and transparency tools like QR codes, and distribution platforms like e-commerce.

“Our job is very challenging, we never stop learning and the wine industry is in continuous development,” explained Emanuele Rocca, export sales manager of Rocca Vini, which includes estates in Piedmont and Puglia. Rocca cited the cultivation of new and “forgotten” varieties, waste reduction in production and packaging, the embrace of e-commerce and social media, an enhanced cellar door experience, and expansion into lesser-known regions like Salento (the “heel” of Italy’s boot) as new ways the company is carrying on the family tradition of innovation. “Our grandpa didn’t teach us to ride a bike but taught us interesting wine secrets,” said Rocca. Among younger drinkers, Rocca notices a movement toward lower-alcohol wines and, most encouraging, an increased interest in wine education.

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

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

Paso Robles Wine Country Events Announced

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Paso Robles, CA – In-person events are back! The Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance announced their calendar for all upcoming public events in 2022. Tickets for three marquee outdoor events are now on sale at pasowine.com. Events include BlendFest on the Coast (February 24 – 27), Spring Release Weekend (March 18 – 20), and Paso Wine Fest (May 19 – 22). Also announced are the dates for the virtual Paso Robles Wine Country Auction (May 9 – 14) and an expansion of Harvest Wine Weekend where the entire month of October has been newly minted as Harvest Wine Month. “New” is the theme for Paso Robles Wine Country events in 2022 with new venues, new names, and refreshed concepts that will create memorable experiences for fans of the wines from Paso Robles Wine Country.

BlendFest on the Coast, February 24 – 27, 2022
The only Paso Wine event dedicated to blends, BlendFest on the Coast celebrates wines of nuance and character derived from the sum of their parts. Experience a taste of Paso Robles Wine Country adjacent to the Pacific Ocean. BlendFest on the Coast will take place February 24 – 27 in San Simeon and Cambria with a selection of exciting events including various excursions that pair wineries with coastal experiences, a blending seminar, as well as winemaker dinners. The marquee event takes place on the Sundance Lawn at the Oceanpoint Ranch in Cambria with more than 40 wineries pouring on Saturday, February 26 from 12 – 4 p.m. Partners include Highway One Discovery Route, Visit Cambria, and Visit San Simeon. Go to pasowine.com for more information and to purchase tickets.

Spring Release Weekend, March 18 – 20, 2022
Formerly Vintage Paso: Zinfandel Weekend, Spring Release Weekend is a three-day celebration of the next vintage when wineries release their new wines. Taste the new releases at an outdoor walk-around tasting in the historic Downtown City Park and enjoy wineries’ individual events like barbecues, vineyard tours, winemaker dinners, and more. There are two ticketed events in Spring Release Weekend – The New Release Seminar, which is a seated tasting showcasing six brands’ newly released wines. A winemaker panel discusses the vintage and how it’s reflected in the bottle. Following the seated tasting is a walk-around tasting featuring 40 wineries all sharing tastes of their spring release wines. Both events take place on Friday, March 18. The seminar is 2 – 3:30 p.m. and the walk-around tasting is 7 – 9 p.m. Paso Wine Spring Release Weekend tickets are now on sale at pasowine.com

Paso Robles Wine Country Auction, May 9 – 14, 2022
This virtual auction will feature up to 25 lots of specially curated items from Paso Robles Wine Country. All lots will be one-of-a-kind that will not be available for retail purchase, which will include special verticals from winery libraries, dinners with multiple brands, overnight stays in exclusive accommodations, and exceptional tours created just for this auction. Visit pasowine.com in April 2022 ahead of the auction start to view the lots as they become listed and to register to bid.

Paso Wine Fest, May 19 – 22, 2022
All new for 2022! New location and new name! Paso Wine Fest will be held at the Paso Robles Event Center with built-in amenities such as dedicated parking, concessions, restrooms, shade, and additional outdoor venues for enhanced experiences. The event weekend offers visitors the chance to explore Paso Robles Wine Country with four days of wine tastings, winemaker dinners, live music, and more! There are multiple ticketed events throughout the four days, beginning on Thursday, May 19 with winemaker dinners at popular Paso Robles restaurants, The Hatch and Thomas Hill Organics. Up to five wineries share their wines across the table at these very limited seated events. On Friday, May 20 the Paso Starry Night Dinner pairs Paso’s best locally sourced cuisine with some of Paso’s iconic wines. This inaugural event seats up to 100 and is spread outdoors under a warm Paso night sky. The Saturday, May 21 main event, Paso Wine Fest, showcases up to 100 wineries at a walk-around tasting and seminars that brings the Paso Wine vibe all into the Paso Robles Event Center for one day only. Visit pasowine.com for more information and to purchase tickets.

Harvest Wine Month, October 2022
Harvest doesn’t take place over one weekend, so why should a celebration of harvest? The entire month of October is now Harvest Wine Month. Wineries will create individual events throughout the tenth month and the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance will have every event listed on pasowine.com. Look for specialty tours, winemaker dinners, grape stomps, music events, and more. This expanded promotion gives wineries the flexibility to host events when its easiest on them during a time when production is at its height. It also takes advantage of October’s exceptional weather when days are warm and nights are cool, a staple for Paso Robles Wine Country.

For all ticket information, please visit pasowine.com.

ABOUT PASO ROBLES WINE COUNTRY ALLIANCE
The Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance is the official trade and marketing organization that represents wineries, growers, and businesses in the Paso Robles American Viticultural Area. Centrally located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, along California’s Central Coast, Paso Robles Wine Country encompasses more than 40,000 vineyard acres and 200 wineries. For more information, visit pasowine.com. Facebook- @PasoRoblesWine, Instagram and Twitter – @Pasowine, #pasowine.

GAMBERO ROSSO ANNOUNCES TRE BICCHIERI U.S. TOUR TO CONTINUE IN FEBRUARY AS SCHEDULED

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ROME, Italy – Italian media company Gambero Rosso has announced the 2022 U.S. Tre Bicchieri tour will happen as scheduled in February. Kicking off on Wednesday, February 16 in Los Angeles, the tour will continue through Monday, February 28 with stops in San Francisco, Chicago, New York City and Boston, respectively.

“After carefully reviewing health and safety guidelines in each city and developing a plan to ensure the wellbeing of our guests, we have decided to proceed with the 2022 tour as scheduled,” says Luigi Salerno, Gambero Rosso CEO. “We are very excited to be returning to these cities and look forward to once again helping connect these extraordinary producers with the U.S. wine market.”

2022 Tre Bicchieri and Vini D’Italia Tour Schedule

  • ●  Wednesday, February 16, 2022 – Los Angeles
  • ●  Friday, February 18, 2022 – San Francisco
  • ●  Wednesday, February 23, 2022 – Chicago
  • ●  Friday, February 25, 2022 – New York City
  • ●  Monday, February 28, 2022 – BostonGambero Rosso will also return to the U.S. in Spring and Summer 2022, visiting Houston on Thursday, April 21 with additional cities and dates forthcoming in June. All Gambero Rosso events are open to qualified, currently-employed members of the wine trade only.

    Additionally, in accordance with local city regulations, guests must confirm their status as fully-vaccinated upon RSVPing and be prepared to show proof of vaccination prior to admittance to any event.

    Wineries showcased in the Tre Bicchieri tour are those awarded the highly coveted tre bicchieri (three glass) designation in the newly-released 2022 Vini D’Italia. Considered to be the ultimate

Authority of the best Italian wines, the 2022 Vini D’Italia guide features a curated list of 2,634 producers selected by more than 60 tasters who traveled throughout the country tasting some 25,000 wines collectively. Wines are evaluated using Gambero Rosso’s bicchieri rating–or glass ranking–with the tre bicchieri rating reserved for just the top one percent of wines from that vintage. Of the 1,982 wines given bicchieri designations, just 476 wines were awarded the coveted tre bicchieri.

The 2022 guide is available for purchase at amazon.com and will be available for sale during Gambero Rosso’s 2022 invitation-only U.S tour.

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About Gambero Rosso

Gambero Rosso® is Italy’s publishing and training leader in the field of wine and food, known primarily in the U.S. for its renowned annual Guide to Italian Wines (Vini d’Italia). It is the only multimedia company in the sector that offers magazines, books, guides, a website, smartphone applications, and a television channel – Sky 412. Since 1987, Gambero Rosso has represented Italian-made food and wine, testing and certifying the quality of products, telling the stories behind the flavors and traditions of the Bel Paese. In Italy, Gambero Rosso offers Città del Gusto® training courses in five cities. Gambero Rosso has developed a rich, worldwide network of partnerships with prestigious culinary institutes to promote authentic Italian culinary traditions and products.

Ten Year Challenge…With Wine and Spirits

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My husband Eddie has painstakingly categorized our photos by year on our cell phones, so I recently looked at photos from ten years ago to see if any were worth posting alongside a photo taken recently, for the latest #10YearChallenge on social media. As you can guess, most of my photos back then were of wine, so I thought I would take a look back at what I was drinking then.

(I also searched my name, 2011 and photos on Facebook to add to my wine blast from the past.) This is what I wanted to share:

Contributing Editor Michael Perlis, Eve and then contributor Rusty Sly at All Corked Up in 2011.

From Napa

Meeting with winemaker Gerard Zanzonico in the stunning caves at Del Dotto for maybe the first time, wine tasting at 10 am in the private room for club members at Mondavi, having a seated tasting on an expansive patio with incredible views at Joseph Phelps, an underground tour and tasting in the caves at Schramsberg, meeting with the most gracious host/owner Suzanne Phifer Pavitt at Phifer Pavitt, an evening tasting at the downtown Napa PureCru tasting bar with winemaker Mitch Consentino.

From Paso

Blending wine at TH Estate with winemaker and owner Terry Hoage, visiting Cass for the first time, a mind-blowing multi-course Earth Day dinner at Justin, visiting with the now shuttered Edward Sellers, winery tour and tasting with Lawrence Lohr of J Lohr, discovering that Whalebone really does have whale bones around the property and Calcareous has calcareous rock in their vineyards, time spent with the one and only Gary Eberle, tasting wines, spirits and having dinner at Opolo, seeing Sculpterra for the first time, the dry farming at Minassian Young, Niner when it first opened, the first concrete eggs were at Villa Creek, meeting and tasting incredible wines with Janell Dusi at J Dusi, tasting Nuggucciet Cellars made by a local newspaper man and Mystic Hills Vineyard lovingly owned by local friends.

Jamaica

Though not known for wine we were well taken care of on a trip to Jamaica ten years ago with French Champagne, Appleton rum blended drinks and icy cold Red Stripe Beer.

Events
The annual Union des Grand Crus de Bordeaux tasting is always not only huge but amazing, and since I love Rhone wines the Rhone Rangers can’t be missed, local have Vine 2 Wine with lots of local support, Garagiste Festival offered drinkers events in LA as well as Paso, Pinot Days up in the Skirball Center, Paso’s Earth Day Food and Wine fest was new, and long-time favorite LA Wine Fest with Yoshi Murakami doing sake classes and Chris Uhde teaching about scotch.

Special Dining

Fontanafredda Barolo at Spago Beverly Hills with fellow wine writers, Martinis at Blue Mermaid Chowder House and Bar in San Francisco on vacation, wine and cheese at Wine 661 for locals, A Taste of Monterey Wine Tasting when I visited Eddie there for Naval Postgraduate School, Iron Horse sparkling that came complements of Bourbon Steak in San Francisco for our wedding anniversary dinner.

Places that no longer exist today

Wine bar/restaurant/wine storage facility – and even live music – at All Corked Up as loved by many, the two brothers that opened Artisan Paso Robles that was a favorite for locals and visitors alike, Chef Daniel Otto was first discovered at the Oaks Grille at TPC, Chef Jason Park at Maru Sushi when it was local on Town Center Drive and many times over drinking wine at Valencia Wine Company with owner Guy Lelarge and also attending all of the wine dinners and events he organized at local restaurants.

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.

Three Ways to Celebrate the Holidays California Wine Country Style

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SAN FRANCISCO — Nothing pairs better with the holidays than celebrating them California wine country style. Whether your plans include a trip to your favorite wine region or bringing the Golden State’s wine country cheer into your home, there are many ways to connect over wine and get in the holiday spirit.

California Wines’ new online guide, Celebrate the Holidays California Wine Country Style, shares three inspiring ways to help you embrace the spirit of the season, from wine events and special gift offers to festive recipes for seasonal dishes paired with California wine and wine cocktails.
Visit California Wine Country for Holiday Events
There’s always something special about visiting the place where your favorite California wines are grown and made, and the experience kicks up a notch when wineries are decked out in holiday splendor. From the North Coast down to Southern California, the Golden State’s easily accessible wineries are hosting special events, such as tree lighting ceremonies, wine festivals and elevated tastings and pairings, along with opportunities to stock up for holiday parties. To top off your holiday visit, be sure to experience all that California wine country’s acclaimed local restaurants have to offer.
Shop Local Winery Gifts and Special Offers 
Supply chain challenges make shopping local even more appealing this holiday season. Instead of giving a gift card, visit a favorite California winery where onsite shopping can yield fun and creative gifts including a curated and personalized holiday wine bundle, crafts from local artisans at holiday events and unique pairing sets like estate wines with fudge made by Trappist monks. You can also take advantage of special holiday offers, such as free shipping or discounted gift packs, offered by many California wineries.
Bring California Wine Country Home with Festive Recipes for Different Holiday Gatherings 
If you’re looking for creative ways to gather this holiday season with Golden State wine and fresh California grown ingredients, look no further. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve or Epiphany, every holiday deserves a festive and tasty dinner. Those hosting holiday gatherings will love the delicious, easy wine country seasonal recipes with suggested pairings that are sure to be a hit, such as Roasted Turkey with Wild Rice and Kale Stuffing, paired with a California Chardonnay or Zinfandel. A vegetarian side is Focaccia Bread Pudding with Wild Mushrooms and Goat Cheese, paired with a California Pinot or Chardonnay.

If you’re looking to elevate your game day, but you’re not exactly a whiz in the kitchen, try something different than burgers and nachos and assemble foolproof appetizers such as deviled eggs, which are always a holiday favorite and pairs brilliantly with a California rosé or sparkling wine. Or try another easy, satisfying dish, such as Fresh Mozzarella with Honey Bacon Vinaigrette on mixed greens with hazelnuts, which goes well with a California Pinot Noir or white blend.
Craft cocktails are a big trend for holiday gatherings and beyond, and both still and sparkling wines can be a part of that experience. Not only does wine provide a lighter alternative to spirits, but it also pairs exceptionally well with a variety of cocktail components. California wines are also particularly fitting for the state’s bounty of local, sustainably grown produce and fresh herbs. Check out our free California Wine Cocktails for the Holidays e-book, featuring recipes for deliciously creative seasonal drinks such as the California Gold Rush — a blend of California Chardonnay, fresh lemon juice and lemon-thyme honey — and the Cranberry Rosé, made with California dry rosé wine, cranberry juice and orange bitters.
Looking for More Ideas? 
For more ideas on holiday events, gifts, special offers and recipes, visit the free online guide at California Wines.

For additional holiday dishes to pair with California wines and wine-based cocktails, pick up a copy of Wine Country Table book featuring recipes inspired by the state’s sustainably grown food and wines. The book is available at many bookstores and through Amazon.

 

About Wine Institute  
Established in 1934, Wine Institute is the public policy advocacy group of 1,000 California wineries and affiliated businesses that initiates and advocates state, federal and international public policy to enhance the environment for the responsible production, consumption and enjoyment of wine. The organization works to enhance the economic and environmental health of the state through its leadership in sustainable winegrowing and a partnership with Visit California to showcase California’s wine and food offerings and the state as a top travel destination.

Just Around the Corner From Barcelona, Welcome to Penedès Wine Region

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NEW YORK (PRWEB) – An hour drive west of kaleidoscopic Barcelona, the Penedès region has recently come under the radar of wine lovers looking for a quiet off-the-beaten-path place where to taste some graceful wine while still benefiting from Barcelona’s flight and train connections.

Located halfway between Barcelona and Tarragona, Pedenès Protected Denomination of Origin extends over 6178 acres, with vines covering ten different micro-regions scattered all the way from the sea up to steep hills of about 800 metres. Xarello, the flagship variety of Penedès, gives life to refreshing and vibrant whites, which gain in complexity and texture when aged in oak. Reds, which make up for 35% of the local production, represent the undiscovered jewel of the region, a repertoire ranging from native Samsò rich in anthocyanins to fruity Ull de Llebre, from juicy Garnatxa to Monastrell suitable for ageing and international varieties such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Intense rosé wines are also produced in the region, mainly from Garnatxa.

The region, whose wine production dates back to the Phoenicians as witnessed by archaeological sites such as Font de la Canya in Avinyonet del Penedès, has been able to preserve its traditions while keeping up with technical innovation and featuring a fresh and attractive quality wine offering which resonates with the nearby city of Barcelona and its vibrant cultural life. Daily wine tours to Penedès country as well as weekend retreats among the vineyards are easy to arrange, allowing those that want to escape the city to explore a rich vinous inheritance, a tasty cuisine and historical attractions.

Penedès is one of the many PDOs featured in Taste The Difference campaign which focuses on promoting quality wines made in Spain and Italy with activities running from October to December 2021 all over the US.

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

The beneficiaries: Unione Italiana Vini is the oldest and most commissioned Association of the Italian wine market.

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

THESE EIGHT ICONIC WINERY EXPERIENCES AIM TO SPARK WINE WANDERLUST

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From Napa Valley to the Central Coast, these Eight Wineries from Foley Family Wines Offer Exciting Tasting Experiences Throughout California

SANTA ROSA, Calif. -With travel back on the agenda for 2021, wineries are welcoming visitors with open arms and a slew of entertaining and engaging experiences that go beyond the usual swirl-and-sip tasting. These eight California wineries, all part of the Foley Family Wines portfolio, beckon travelers up and down the state with activities ranging from weekend brunch to strolls among horse stables to cave tours and more. Reservations are available online at each winery’s website; all winery information is available at https://foleyfamilywines.com.

Ferrari-Carano, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County – Sycamore Grove Wine & Brunch by @allisonuncorked

Ferrari-Carano, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County – Sycamore Grove Wine & Brunch

Long known for its unparalleled hospitality, Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery recently unveiled new tasting experiences that showcase this Sonoma County winery’s stunning gardens, vineyards and outdoor enclaves. Enhanced appointment-only tastings held in the Sycamore Grove or outdoor Terrace invite guests to sit amongst shady trees and experience the winemaker’s favorite wines paired with Italian-inspired bites prepared by the Estate Chef. On Sundays, visitors can enjoy La Colazione Italiana (Breakfast Italian Style) at the signature Sycamore Grove Wine & Brunch. $30 per person, Il Terrazzo Tasting; $85 per person, Brunch. Reservations available daily from 11 AM to 5 PM; Sunday Brunch, 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM only. Book online at www.ferrari-carano.com. 8761 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Chalk Hill Estate, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County – Vineyard Overlook Experience

Founded in 1972, Chalk Hill Estate Vineyard and Winery is a premier Sonoma County wine estate best known for its iconic Chardonnay, as well as its limited-production, estate-grown wines. The spectacular 1,300-acre estate is home to multiple venues hosting elevated experiences, organic culinary gardens and largely uncultivated wilderness in an effort to preserve the land. Its signature wine tasting, The Vineyard Overlook Experience, offers guests an elegant and immersive guided-tasting experience with picturesque vineyard views of the Russian River Valley alongside an array of estate-grown wines. $40 per person. Reservations available daily from 11 AM to 3 PM at www.chalkhill.com. 10300 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448.

Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery, Sonoma – Historic Cherryblock Vineyard Tour and Tasting

Sebastiani’s historic Cherryblock Vineyard Tour and Tasting takes guests on a private 90-minute excursion with a Senior Wine Educator to learn about the winery’s rich history, unique viticulture and the winemaking philosophy behind their world-famous estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Cherryblock. Tasting includes five signature wines, including two vintages of Cherryblock. $110 per person. Reservations available daily from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM at www.sebastiani.com. 389 4th St E, Sonoma, CA 95476.

Chalone Vineyard, Soledad, Central Coast – Signature Tasting

Monterey County’s oldest winery, Chalone Vineyard, is perched in the ruggedly beautiful terrain of the Gavilan Bench with a storied past as remarkable as its acclaimed wines. Located 1,800 feet above the Salinas Valley and bordering Pinnacles National Park, the estate’s rolling vineyards benefit from a unique combination of limestone and granite soils that create wines with distinctive minerality. Visitors will enjoy an intimate wine tasting of five estate wines while learning about a winery whose Chardonnay brought California wines to the world stage during the landmark Judgment of Paris tasting in 1976. $25 per person. Reservations available Friday through Sunday, 11 AM to 5 PM at www.chalonevineyard.com. 32020 Stonewall Canyon Road, Soledad, CA 93960.

Lincourt Vineyards, Central Coast

Lincourt Vineyards is nestled in Santa Barbara County outside of the Dutch-inspired town of Solvang in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA, one of the most coveted cool-climate AVAs in California. Lincourt’s tasting room is located in an original 1926 Sears Craftsman Kit Home that has served as the farmhouse of what was once a dairy farm. The property has retained the rustic, rural charm and simplicity of an earlier era. Named for Bill and Carol Foley’s daughters, Lindsay and Courtney, Lincourt produces small-lot bottlings of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Guests can enjoy views of the beautiful estate vineyard for their seated tastings on the patio, with the option of an accompanying cheese and charcuterie plate. $30 per person; additional $30 for charcuterie plate. Reservations available daily from 11 AM to 5 PM at www.lincourtwines.com. 1711 Alamo Pintado Rd, Solvang, CA 93463.

Firestone Winery, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County – Friday Night Wine Experiences

Firestone is located in a unique cusp region with a “Goldilocks” climate that is neither too hot nor too cold. Visitors can enjoy seating tastings in the tasting room, on the lawn or in the courtyard, with flights including wines ranging from crisp white to intense red blends. Throughout the summer, Firestone offers a coveted Friday Night Summer Concert Series, featuring live music from 6 PM to 9 PM and wines by the bottle. Food is available for purchase from either Filthy Filly’s Steakhouse Food Truck or Tom’s BBQ for tri-tip sandwiches. Friday concerts are free; reservations are required and available at www.firestonewine.com. 5017 Zaca Station Rd, Los Olivos, CA 93441.

Lancaster Estate, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County – Hillside Cave Tour & Tasting

An exceptional cave tour experience, highlighting our unique wine library & our detailed barrel aging process. Based on County restrictions, you may experience limited access during your visit. Join us in our Garden Grove for an intimate tasting of four estate wines in a relaxed outdoor setting, overlooking our premier Bordeaux varietals grown exclusively in Alexander Valley. Allow our wines to reveal the unique character of our hillside estate. $75 per person. Reservations available daily from 10 AM to 4 PM at www.lancaster-estate.com. 15001 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448.

Foley Johnson, Rutherford, Napa Valley – Three Wineries in One Stop

Housed in a converted 1920s redwood barn, Foley Johnson’s tasting room offers three iconic Napa Valley winery tastings in one location. Guests can reserve an indoor or patio tasting of wines from Foley Johnson, Kuleto Estate and Merus wineries — three distinctive Napa Valley wineries brought together under one roof by Bill Foley and his wife, Carol Johnson. $85 per person for Luxury Cabernet Vertical; $50-55 per person for Foley Johnson or Kuleto Estate patio tasting. Reservations available daily from 10 AM to 5 PM at www.foleyjohnsonwines.com. 8350 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA 94573.

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About Foley Family Wines

Established by Bill Foley in 1996, Foley Family Wines is a portfolio of highly-acclaimed wines from some of the world’s greatest vineyards. Every brand in the company’s portfolio has a distinct style and legacy. Encompassing more than two dozen wineries across the globe, Foley Family Wines is the proud steward of some of the wine world’s iconic brands and winery experiences. The Foley Food & Wine Society, the world’s leading luxury lifestyle community, provides members with a gateway to an unmatched variety of culinary, travel, and entertainment experiences around the globe, including the US, New Zealand, Italy, France, Argentina, and Chile. 200 Concourse Blvd., Santa Rosa, CA 95403; (707) 542-4565; https://foleyfamilywines.com.

 

Trivento® Ascends to #1 Argentine Wine Brand in the World

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MENDOCINO COUNTY, Calif., /PRNewswire/ — Bodega Trivento announced it is now the world’s top-selling Argentine wine brand following a 2020 report from global consulting firm IWSR Drinks Market Analysis. Achieving combined global retail and e-commerce sales of more than US$250 million, the Malbec powerhouse known as the House of Wind doubled sales performance over the past five years to obtain the top spot in the global ranking.

Contributing to the brand’s momentum are enhanced sustainability initiatives such as Trivento’s new B Corp Certification

Founded in 1996, Trivento specializes in acclaimed Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon from some of the most sought-after high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza. Contributing to the brand’s global momentum are ongoing strategic investments in infrastructure, vineyards and people to drive recognized quality in the glass; a focus on expanding distribution in key markets; the development of highly visible, brand-relevant partnerships in regional markets; and enhanced sustainability initiatives and consumer-relevant green credentials such as Trivento’s recent B Corp Certification.

Trivento CEO Marcos Jofré credits this worldwide milestone to the extended Trivento team, noting that “we are very proud of this achievement, and it is the result of the efforts of so many people, from our workers in the vineyards to those who represent our wines in international markets.”

Trivento U.S. – Leveraging Excellence, Tech and Partnerships in Equal Measure
Imported to the U.S. by Fetzer Vineyards, Trivento Reserve Malbec (SRP $11) is an 11-time Wine Enthusiast Best Buy and the #3-selling Malbec, while the brand overall is a Top-5 premium Argentine import. The collection continues to grow mindshare and momentum stateside through enhanced availability including traditional, online and delivery-focused retail channels, tech-forward marketing, and as the official partner of Major League Soccer (MLS) team Inter Miami CF.

“It’s exciting to see Trivento take its place as the leading Argentine wine brand in the world,” noted Rodrigo Maturana, senior vice president of marketing and international business for Fetzer Vineyards. “A focus on ensuring our wines are available wherever U.S. consumers are, along with technology plays that elevate our marketing—from augmented reality soccer experiences to virtual winery tours—gave us a boost in recent years and continues to create tailwinds for Trivento, now even more broadly available thanks to enhanced distribution.”

Global Growth Credited to Sustainable, Long-Term Market Development
In addition to successes in the U.S., key markets fueling Trivento’s growth include the UK, where Trivento Reserve Malbec is the number one-selling red wine, while Trivento as a brand counts among the top 10-selling wine brands overall; Brazil, which notched sales growth of 88%; and South Korea, where 2020 saw a remarkable 935% increase in sales. Partnerships in key markets with the likes of Discovery Channel (UK and Mexico), and Major League Soccer (the U.S., where Trivento was the official wine of MLS through 2020) further boosted visibility and engagement with the brand.

In Argentina, Trivento continues to enhance its foundation for future growth, strengthening sustainability commitments with—among other initiatives—completion of the largest winery solar array in the nation, and investing in winemaking infrastructure and vineyards. The recent purchase and ongoing revitalization of a winery and circa-1940 villa in iconic Luján du Cuyo expands Trivento’s winemaking footprint in a prime terroir and complements ongoing excellence at Trivento’s celebrated winery and visitor center in Maipú.
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With a venerable collection of critically lauded wines at every price point now topping sales rosters worldwide, Trivento is poised to deliver further momentum on its latest significant accolade.
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About Bodega Trivento
Rooted in the energy of Argentina’s passion for wine, Trivento—meaning three winds in Spanish—is synonymous with expressive, terroir-driven Malbec that paints a vivid portrait of Mendoza’s high-altitude vineyards in the foothills of the Andes Mountains. The character and quality of each wine is guided by the spirited vision of Chief Winemaker Germán Di Cesare, who honors the varied soils, mountain snowmelt and powerful winds that shape Mendoza’s vines.

Four distinct Trivento collections highlight the unique characteristics of two coveted sub-regions in Mendoza, Luján de Cuyo and Uco Valley: Eolo, a single-vineyard luxury Malbec from century-old vines; Golden Reserve, a passionate expression of treasured and historic Malbec vines; and Reserve, a beloved collection crafted predominantly from estate vines that includes the ascendant Maximum Red Blend and the #3 best-selling Malbec in the U.S. Founded in 1996 and today a Certified B Corporation, Trivento welcomes visitors to experience the wine and culture of Mendoza at Bodega Trivento in Maipú or through a virtual tour of the winery’s modern art space, vineyards and barrel room. Learn more at trivento.com.

©2021 Imported by Fetzer Vineyards, Mendocino County, California USA

SOURCE Trivento US