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Perlis Picks: Portalupi

December 26, 2020 by Michael Perlis

“Grandma was a bootlegger.”

Not something you hear every day, but this is what Jane Portalupi told Karen and me when we visited.

The tag hanging on the one-liter milk bottles of their Vaso di Marina red and white wines tells the story like this:

“This wine is inspired by my grandmother, Marina Portalupi, who immigrated to Northern California from Piemonte, Italy. She believed wine was a staple, like milk and bread, and kept a barrel of her vino di tavola in her small grocery store. Every day, customers would fill their empty milk bottles to take home and pass around the dinner table. Vaso di Marina is a rustic yet refined wine in that same tradition and we hope you’ll enjoy it the same way.”

The above was how this article was supposed to begin after our visit in 2019. For various reasons, it got delayed. My apologies to the Portalupis for that. Then, 2020 came and the pandemic happened, the world changed, and I think it would be more important for you to know what is going on now with the winery.

But first, a little backstory…

I first tasted Portalupi’s wines at WineLA’s 2019 Elevating Zinfandel event. Of course, I only got to taste their Zins that day, but they were excellent versions from the Russian River Valley Dolinsek Ranch. I knew we needed to taste the rest of their offerings the next time we visited Sonoma County, which we ended up doing later in the year.

The winery was founded in 2002 by Jane Portalupi and Tim Borges to showcase their Italian heritage and its connection to California wine in a true Cal-Italia celebration. Jane and Tim knew each other as children and when they reconnected as adults, they married and combined Tim’s winemaking experience with Jane’s fashion marketing background into Portalupi Winery.

Founded in 2002, Jane and Tim wanted Portalupi to honor their own Italian heritage along with the deep roots that Italian immigrants have in California’s wine industry.

Karen and I met up with Jane at the winery’s charming tasting room in downtown Healdsburg. Starting out, we were surprised to find they had a sparkling Barbera. What a delicious and fun wine to get our palates ready to taste some serious stuff.

We then tried a couple of whites, the 2016 Vermentino and the 2018 Arneis, both classic Italian varietals that were couldn’t wait to bring home and enjoy.

Enough playing around though, we were ready for the big boys.

Portalupi makes two Barberas, one from Shake Ridge Ranch in Amador County and one from Pauli Ranch in Mendocino. We tried the 2016 versions. I was very slightly partial to the Shake Ridge bottling, but I might have been a little prejudiced since I love Amador Barberas.

We also tasted through a selection of Charbono, two Zinfandels and a Petite Sirah. It’s hard to find much Charbono these days. Portalupi gets their Charbono grapes from the Venturi Vineyard in Ukiah, certified organic and vines over 100 years old, which is also where they get their Petite Sirah. I mentioned above that the Zin comes from Dolinsek in the RRV. As I said, these are “big boy wines”, delicious and able to stand up to whatever food you might throw at them.

I did check in with Jane on how things are going and this is what she told me:

“It has been a crazy year for sure. In Sonoma County we have been only able to serve outside. So our beautiful interior space is not being used although we have found out that our temporary outdoor seating has worked very well, especially on weekends. We are still not getting many tourists except from the bay area. People are loving the outdoors and everyone hopes this will go beyond Covid.

We are approved by the city to go through December 2021 and I hope beyond, especially since we plan to build a beautiful outdoor space soon…Just wonder what our new normal will be – I have learned to be light on my feet and can make a change on a dime. So, as hard as it has been, we all have grown. We are fortunate to have a loyal following and are grateful every day for the people who support us.”

Jane said that Portalupi is all about food and wine with friends and family and celebrating the moment. We appreciate her letting us in to share that.

Portalupi Wine

www.portalupiwine.com

107 North St, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Michael Perlis has been pursuing his passion for wine for more than 30 years. He has had the good fortune of having numerous mentors to show him the way, as well as a wonderful wife who encourages him and shares his interest. After a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting wineries and vineyards, and tasting as much wine as he possibly could, he had the amazing luck to meet Eve Bushman. Now, as Contributing Editor for Eve’s Wine 101, he does his best to bring as much information as possible about wine to Eve’s Wine 101 faithful readers. Michael is also President of MCP Financial, which provides outsourced controller services. Michael can be contacted at michaelthezinfan@aol.com or mcpfinancial@aol.com.

Filed Under: Michael Perlis Tagged With: amador, barbera, California, charbono, covid, Healdsburg, Italy, mendocino, old vines, organic, palate, Petite Sirah, Piedmont, Russian River Valley, sonoma county, Sparkling wine, tasting room, vermentino, white wine, winela, winemaking, winery, Zinfandel

The 12th Annual STARS of Cabernet 2020 At Home Edition: November 18th, 20th, and 21st

November 9, 2020 by evebushman

For 11 years – we gathered winemakers from all over the world for one special night in Beverly Hills and celebrated amazing Cabernet. This year, we take the event to ZOOM and bring the event to you wherever you are! We have wine flights or full bottle kits delivered to you – a Cabernet lover’s showcase delivered to your home! Join the winemakers LIVE and taste; join in one tasting or join them all! A silent auction will benefit 501(c)(3) Unite The United for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.   

Single night tickets are $50 with a tasting kit – and that includes delivery in California!

Join all THREE events with tasting kits for $100 – and that includes delivery in California!
www.STARSofCabernet.com
for details, wine list, and option to have your tasting kit picked up at TESSE RESTAURANT with a special STARS dinner menu!  

THE STARS OF CABERNET 2020 | Wednesday 11/18 at 7pm 

Mauritson

PEJU

Crown Point Vineyards

S. R. Tonella Cellars

Reynolds Family Winery

Dusty Nabor Wines 

THE STARS OF CABERNET 2020 | Friday 11/20 at 7pm 

Blagden Wines

Robert Young Estate 

Rocca Family Vineyards

Mullan Road Cellars

Dana Estates

Sullivan Rutherford Estate

THE STARS OF CABERNET 2020 | Saturday 11/21 at 7pm 

Hertelendy Vineyards

Carte Blanche

Alejandro Bulgheroni Estate

AXR Napa Valley

Tierra Roja Vineyard

Frank Family Vineyards 

Tickets will sell out and prices do increase as the event date approaches – buy your tickets now!     

For information and ticket purchasing, please visit STARSofcabernet.com

About Unite The United:  

Unite The United Foundation is a public 501(c)(3) non-profit, fundraising organization founded by the producers of the Vans Warped Tour and Rockstar Energy Mayhem Festival. Their mission is to encourage fans, artists and industry leaders from the music, touring and action sports worlds to work toward positive change, by supporting local charities, producing events, and participating in community volunteerism events across the United States.

About Ian Blackburn – Founder of wineLA.com and LearnAboutWine.com 

Since 1995, Ian Blackburn has focused on improving Los Angeles wine culture through ongoing educational tastings, classes and experiences. Educating and edu-taining with precision, we invite and welcome the best of the wine world to partake. LearnAboutWine was the first of its kind and continues to innovate, fortifying a quality wine audience one class, one tasting, one experience at a time. We are a part of the Los Angeles lifestyle, the wine lifestyle, and celebrate the people and the place with passion. The pandemic only made us better, stronger, and now we’re going nationwide!!!
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For more information visit www.wineLA.com or call  310-451-7600.

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: cabernet sauvignon, California, cellar, charity, estate, flight, Learn About Wine, los angeles, restaurant, vineyard, wine auction, wine event, Wine tasting, winela, winemaker, zoom

California Wine STARS 2020 – New Discoveries and Old Faves to Taste!

March 6, 2020 by evebushman

Just when I thought that I could possibly miss a WineLA.com event, founder and organizer Ian Blackburn creates another that sparks my interest – almost weekly! This time it was the California Wine STARS event that not only brought out some heavy hitter wineries that I knew, but also – as always – introduced me to producers that I didn’t know. We had less than 30 wineries, which is perfect for having the opportunity to chat with the winemakers. First I’ll share the teaser invite, and then the full wine list with notes in bold on which wines we liked best. If you just want photos go here. (And, as is my habit, if I don’t mention a winery or a particular wine it’s because I missed it, not due to any fault of the winery, just an outcome of palate fatigue.)

Invitation

A focus on superior winemaking efforts from smaller producers of merit. We want to introduce you to the best in the business! Meet the owners, winemakers and executives that are changing the wine landscape as we know it: Santa Barbara – Paso Robles – Monterey – Sonoma – Napa Valley and all regions in-between. All varietals will be poured.

WINE LIST

Alejandro Bulgheroni Estate – This was not the first wine I tasted, but it was my first favorite Bordeaux blend of the tasting.
Lithology, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2016

Aleksander Wine by S&G – both grand but I liked the 2014 a wee bit more.
Estate
Bordeaux Blend, Paso Robles, CA, 2013
Bordeaux Blend, Paso Robles, CA, 2014

Au Bon Climat
Clendenen Family Vineyards, Tocai Friulano Santa Maria Valley, 2016
Clendenen Family Vineyards, Nebbiolo, “Punta Exclamitiva”, Santa Maria Valley, 2011
White Wine Blend, Hildegard, Santa Maria Valley, 2017
Pinot Noir, Knox Alexander, Santa Maria Valley, 2015

Beekeeper Cellars – all great Zins but the Rockpile blew my socks off.
Zinfandel, Montecillo Vineyard, Sonoma Valley, 2016
Zinfandel, Secret Stones, Rockpile, Sonoma, 2016 Zinfandel, Hidden Hillside Reserve, Sonoma County, 2017

Bernardus Winery
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley, 2017
Marinus Estate, Bordeaux Blend, 2014
Gary’s Vineyard, Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, 2017
Rosella’s Vineyard, Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, 2016

Bevela Wines
Grenache Blanc, White Lotus, Camp 4 Vineyard, Santa Barbara County, 2019 Chardonnay, Fractured Emergence, Santa Barbara County, 2018
Red Blend, Unforeseen Alchemy, Santa Barbara County, 2016
Teroldego, Matela, Le Bon Climat Vineyard, Santa Barbara County, 2013

Bodega de Edgar – So cool to see Edgar Torres at this event. Met him a few times over the years and adore his wines. This time they all were fab, with the Priorato and Tarragona especially hitting all the right notes.
Albariño, Shale Oak Vineyard, Paso Robles, CA, 2019
Tempranillo, Laetitia Vineyard, Arroyo Grande Valley, CA, 2016
Priorato, Paper Street Vineyard, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles, 2017
Tarragona, Paper Street Vineyard, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles, CA, 2017

Carpenter
Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, 2018
Pinot Noir, Pommard, Sonoma Coast, 2016
White Zinfandel, Sonoma County, 2019

En Garde Winery – It’s kind of a joke around town that I’m no big Pinot fan. Tasting for my wine pals I have to say that they need to look for this Pinot from En Garde. It was my pick of the Pinots at the tasting.
Pinot Noir, Starkey Hill, Russian River Valley, 2018

HALL Family Wines – Loved both the Kathryn HALL red label and their flagship Cab. HALL is a longtime favorite of ours. Kudos to Ian and his team for getting this heavy hitter.
HALL Wines, Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley, 2018
WALT Wines, Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley, 2017
HALL Wines, Cabernet Sauvigon, Napa Valley 2016 and Kathryn HALL, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2016. 

Hawk and Horse Vineyards – Always great to see this winery and the aged wines they always bring to the table. Loved the Petit Verdot, it really hit my sweet spot.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills, 2014
Petite Sirah, Red Hills, 2014, 
Petit Verdot, Red Hills, 2014 and Block Three Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills, 2016

Heitz Cellar – another big one out of Napa for us lucky tasters!
Chardonnay, Napa Valley, CA, 2017
Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, CA, 2015
Cabernet Sauvignon, Trailside Vineyard, Rutherford, CA, 2014
Cabernet Sauvignon, Martha’s Vineyard, Oakville, CA, 2014

Knights Bridge Winery – I had just visited the winery about six months ago and was happy to taste their affordable every-day reds for the first time. Well done.
Estate Sauvignon Blanc, Knights Valley, Sonoma, 2018
Estate Chardonnay, Knights Valley, Sonoma 2018
Estate Red Blend, Knights Valley, Sonoma 2016
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Knights Valley, Sonoma, 2015

Ledge Vineyards – New to me and well worth the tasting, may have to seek them out for a future Paso visit. In 2016 they went to strictly Rhone varietals, they began in 2005 with a first vintage in 2009. Really liked the James Berry red Rhone.
Red Rhône Blend, Adams Ranch Vineyard, Willow Creek District, 2017
Red Rhône Blend, James Berry Vineyard, Willow Creek District, 2017 Counoise/Cinsaut Rose, James Berry Vineyard, Willow Creek District, 2017
California Red Blend, MCA Cuvèe, Paso Robles, 2017

Nelle Winery – Another new Paso winery for me. Ed loved the Grenache, I leaned towards the Syrah,
Pinwheel, Paso Robles, 2018
Syrah, Central Coast, Paso Robles, 2017
Grenache, Central Coast, 2017

Coastview Syrah, Paso Robles, 2017

Obsidian Wine Co. – A Napa winery new to me, liked their use of Hungarian oak, and am hoping to find their Cabs again.
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills, Lake County, 2017
“Half Mile” Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills, Lake County, 2017

Estate Chardonnay, Carneros, Napa Valley, 2017
Estate Pinot Noir, Carneros, Napa Valley, 2018

Petrichor Vineyards – The perfumy aromatics on the Estate Syrah were outstanding. Also enjoyed the Syrah Grenache blend. Will be looking for these Sonoma-based wines again too.
Rosé of Grenache, Estate, Sonoma County, 2018
Grenache, Estate, Sonoma County, 2016
Syrah, Estate, Sonoma County, 2016
Syrah/Grenache Blend, Estate, Les Trois, Sonoma County, 2016

Pomar Junction Winery
Viognier, Pomar Junction Vineyard, Paso Robles, El Pomar District, 2017
Reserve Tempranillo, Pomar Junction Vineyard, Paso Robles, El Pomar District, 2015
Cab Forward, Pomar Junction Vineyard, Paso Robles, El Pomar District, 2014
Train Wreck, Pomar Junction Vineyard, Paso Robles, El Pomar District, 2015

Rideau Vineyard
Viognier, Estate, Los Olivos District, 2018
White Rhône Blend (The Brassman), Estate, Los Olivos District, 2016
Pinot Noir, La Encantada/Garey, Santa Barbara County, 2017
Red Rhône Blend (Enchevêtré Rouge), Santa Barbara County, 2016

Ridge Vineyards – Nice Zin blends from Sonoma, and another star winery at the event.
Estate Chardonnay, Monte Bello Vineyard, Santa Cruz Mountains, 2018
Zin Blend, Three Valleys, Sonoma County, 2017
Zinfandel, East Bench, Dry Creek Valley, 2017
Zin Blend, Lytton Springs, Dry Creek Valley, 2017

Scheid Family Wines
Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, 50/50 Estate, Monterey, 2014
Chardonnay, Estate, Monterey, 2014
Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey, 2014
Petite Sirah, Stokes’ Ghost, Monterey, 2015

Somerston Estate – The last winery on this list, was again new to me! Enjoyed the two Napa Valley reds, with a special nod to the Coach Gun Bordeaux blend. Definitely want that one again.
Somerston Estate, Cabernet Sauvignon, Somerston Estate, Block XCVI, Napa Valley, 2014
Priest Ranch, Red Blend, Coach Gun, Somerston Estate, Napa Valley, 2014
Priest Ranch, Grenache Blanc, Somerston Estate, Napa Valley, 2017
Priest Ranch, Sauvignon Blanc, Somerston Estate, Napa Valley, 2018

PARTICIPATING PRODUCERS and their Facebook links: Alejandro Bulgheroni Estate,
Aleksander Wine by S&G Estate, Au Bon Climat Winery, Beekeeper Cellars, Bernardus Winery, Bevela Wines, Bodega de Edgar, Carpenter Wine, En Garde Winery , HALL Wines, Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Heitz Cellar, Knights Bridge Winery, Ledge Vineyards, Nelle Winery, Obsidian Wine Co., Petrichor Vineyards, Pomar Junction Winery, Rideau Vineyard, Ridge Vineyards, Scheid Vineyards, Somerston Wine.

SILENT AUCTION: wineLA has raised over $500,000 for The T.J. Martell Foundation 501(c)(3) supporting Children’s Hospital Los Angeles funding children’s cancer research.

Partners: Los Angeles Magazine, Evian Water, Schott Zwiezel glassware, La Brea Bakery, The T.J. Martell Foundation

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.

Filed Under: Eve Bushman Tagged With: Bordeaux, cabernet sauvignon, California, Chardonnay, Ian Blackburn, Monterey, Napa Valley, Paso Robles, petit verdot, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, red blend, Rhone, Santa Barbara, Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma, tasting notes, Tempranillo, varietal, wine event, Wine tasting, winela, winemaker, wineries, Zinfandel

STARS of Cabernet 2019? Yes! We did it again!

November 22, 2019 by evebushman

How many times have we covered STARS of Cabernet? A bunch. But why do we cover the same event year after year? Because year after year there are ALWAYS new wineries to discover, new vintages from old favorites and a bunch of wine-loving friends that we’ve made over the years that we get to see again. (If you want to cut to the chase just for photos go here.)

So what was new for us this year from the incredible wine list below? Well, Ian Blackburn of WineLA.com always does a tremendous job curating wineries for us, so it’s very hard to narrow it down! I have put the wineries in bold that we were able to visit – we can’t do it all – and have noted any special wines we want you to look for:

The 2019 STARS of Cabernet Tasting List

  • Addendum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA, 2015
  • Addendum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Stagecoach Vineyard, Atlas Peak, USA, 2015
  • Addendum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Skellenger Lane, Rutherford, USA, 2015
  • Alejandro Bulgheroni, Cabernet Sauvignon, Lithology Napa Valley, Napa Valley, USA, 2015 – we also had three 2016 single vineyard wines that were outstanding. This is a winery I will be looking for.
  • Allegretto Wines, Trio, Allegretto Vineyard, Paso Robles, 2017
  • Allegretto Wines, Malbec, Cira Vineyard, Paso Robles, 2015
  • Allegretto Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, Allegretto Vineyard, Paso Robles, 2016
  • Allegretto Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, Willow Creek, Paso Robles, 2015 – and thanks to Quin Cody for taking such good care of us.
  • Almaviva 2016 – During our tasting they were notified that this 2016 was a Wine Spectator Top Ten Wine of the Year, and guess what? Ran out before we could taste it, betting it’s sold out now as well!
  • Almaviva 2017 – a Chilean blend.
  • AXR – TBA
  • Barnett Vineyards Spring Mountain Cabernet, Spring Mountain District, USA, 2017
  • Barnett Vineyards Rattlesnake Cabernet, Spring Mountain District, USA, 2017
  • BV Tapestry Red Blend, Napa Valley, USA 2016
  • BV Cabernet Sauvignon Georges de Latour, Rutherford, CA USA 2016
  • BV Sauvignon Blanc, Rutherford, Napa 2018
  • Bernardus, Marinus Estate, Carmel Valley, 2010
  • Bernardus, Marinus Estate, Carmel Valley, 2011
  • Bernardus, Marinus Estate, Carmel Valley, 2013
  • Bernardus Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, Carmel Valley, 2017
  • Chappellet Signature Cabernet, Napa 2017
  • Chappellet Mountain Cuvee, Bordeaux Blend, Napa/Sonoma 2017
  • Chappellet Grower Collection Chardonnay, Calesa Vineyard, Petaluma Gap, 2017
  • Chateau Montelena, Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, 2015; Calistoga, USA – they also served a 2005 Cab that was amazing.
  • Chateau Montelena, Chardonnay, 2016 Napa Valley, USA
  • Clark Claudon – TBA
  • Crown Point, Estate Selection Bordeaux Blend, Happy Canyon, USA, 2014
  • Crown Point, Estate Selection Bordeaux Blend, Happy Canyon, USA, 2015
  • Crown Point, Cabernet Sauvignon, Happy Canyon, USA, 2016
  • Dana Estates – VIP 6 PM ONLY
  • Davis Estates – TBA
  • Dominus Estate – VIP 6 PM ONLY
  • Duhig Wine, 2016 Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon Coombsville Napa Valley – this was a nice discovery for us. The Cab was slightly chilled and had a lovely mouthfeel, and the two sisters working the table were delightful.
  • Ehlers Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016
  • Ehlers Estate Cabernet Franc, 2016
  • Ehlers Estate Portrait (Bordeaux Blend)
  • Ehlers Estate 1886, 2015
  • Napa Cabernet, 2016
  • Rutherford Reserve, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016
  • Winston Hill, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2014
  • Carneros Chardonnay
  • Arrowood Wines, Sonoma Estates Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016
  • Stonestreet Estate Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, 2016
  • Frank Family Vineyards 2016 Rutherford Reserve, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
  • Freemark Abbey, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2016
  • Hawk & Horse Vineyards – 2014 Petit Verdot, Red Hills, Lake County – always nice to taste with Hawk & Horse.
  • Hertelendy Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2015
  • Hertelendy Vineyards Signature Mtn Blend, Napa Valley, 2015- we missed seeing Ralph Herterlendy at the event this year but his wines were still amazing without him.
  • Hertelendy Vineyards Chardonnay, Ritchie Vineyard, Russian River Valley, 2015
  • J. Bookwalter, Cabernet Sauvignon, Volume 6 Dionysus Vineyard, Columbia Valley Washington, USA 2016
  • J. Bookwalter, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chapter 9 Conner-Lee Vineyard, Columbia Valley Washington, USA 2016 – new winery for us, good wines.
  • Jack Wines – TBA
  • Joseph Phelps Chardonnay, Freestone Vineyards, 2017
  • Joseph Phelps Pinot Noir, Freestone Vineyards, 2017
  • Joseph Phelps Insignia, Napa Valley, 2016
  • Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2016 – we’re club members, so it was so cool to see them at this event!
  • Gelson’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Coombsville, Napa Valley
  • Marciano Estate – TBA
  • Michel Rolland – TBA
  • Moët Hennessey presents – all unfiltered wines, I enjoyed all the 2015 Newton Estate: Spring Mtn, Yountville, Mt. Veeder
  • Monteverro – TBA
  • Moraga White (SB) Bel Air, CA, 2017
  • Moraga Red (Bordeaux Blend) Bel Air, CA, 2015
  • Napanook – TBA
  • Palmaz Cabernet 2016
  • Palmaz Cabernet 2015
  • Palmaz Chardonnay “Amalia” 2017
  • Prime Solum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA, 2015
  • Prime Solum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA, 2014
  • Prime Solum, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA, 2011
  • Prime Solum Rosé of Cabernet Sauvignon, Brokenrock Vineyard, Napa Valley, 2018 – I had written about this winery for Napa Valley Life Magazine so it was a treat to see them and taste all of their yummy wines!
  • Relic Wines – TBA
  • Rocca, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot Blend, “Vespera” Grigsby/Collinetta, Yountville/Coombsville, USA, 2014
  • Rocca, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grigsby, Yountville, USA, 2014
  • Rocca, Cabernet Sauvignon, Collinetta, Coombsville, USA, 2013 –so cool to find Rocca at this event! Had visited them a few years back, and just like then I loved all of their wines.
  • Sequoia Grove Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2016
  • Seven Stones Winery – TBA
  • ST. FRANCIS WINERY & VINEYARDS, Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County, 2016
  • Teachworth Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate, Diamond Mountain District, 2016
  • Teachworth Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon, Manzanita Hill Vineyard, Diamond Mountain District, 2012
  • Teachworth Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rattlesnake Ridge Vineyard, Diamond Mountain District, 2012
  • T. Berkley Wines, Cabernet Franc, Leaning Oak Vineyard, Los Carneros, Napa, 2016 –This may have been my favorite wine at the tasting. I love Cab Franc and the winemaker told me that Cab Franc was the reason he became a winemaker. Same winemaker for both Teachworth and T.Berkley: Taylor Berkley Boydstun.
  • The Debate – TBA
  • The Unfiltered Collection, winemaker is Jean Hoefliger formerly of Alpha Omega, all native yeast: 2015 Clark Claudon “Eternity” Cabernet Sauvignon, V. Vineyards 2015 “Audace” Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016 “The Debate” Cabernet Sauvignon.
  • Trujillo Cabernet Napa Valley 2016
  • Trujillo Gary Morisoli Single Vineyard Designate Cabernet Rutherford 2016
  • Trujillo Henry Brothers Single Vineyard Designate Cabernet Howell Mtn. 2016
  • Two Old Dogs – TBA
  • V. Vineyards – TBA
  • Yount Ridge Cellars – TBA
  • ZD Wines, 59% Pinot Noir 41% Chardonnay, Anniversary Reserve Cuvee Sparkling, Napa Valley AVA, USA
  • ZD Wines, Chardonnay, California Chardonnay, California Appellation, USA, 2017
  • ZD Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2016
  • ZD Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2010

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.

Filed Under: Eve Bushman Tagged With: beverly hills, Bordeaux, cabernet sauvignon, calistoga, Carmel, carneros, Chardonnay, Chile, coombsville, Ian Blackburn, Merlot, Napa, Napa Valley, Paso Robles, rutherford, stars of cabernet, usa, vineyard, wine event, Wine tasting, winela, winemaker, yountville

The 11th Annual STARS of Cabernet, Once Again at The Peninsula Beverly Hills, Wednesday, November 13th

October 30, 2019 by evebushman

LA’s #1 Cabernet Showcase – no other event features the breadth of quality Cabernet wines in such an exceptional tasting environment, with an intimate high-tier audience limited to 140 guests!!  As expected, this event sells-out every year and raises money for T.J. MARTELL FOUNDATION and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

Cabernet is KING and The STARS of Cabernet embraces the continued refinement inside the Cabernet category!  Wines from Napa Valley, Sonoma Country, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, France, Chile, and Washington will be on display with abundant tray-passed appetizers and culinary delights!  The STARS are the wineries themselves, and whenever possible, the winery table is hosted by a winemaker, proprietor, and/or a winery executive.  A “first hand” tasting experience like none-other.

Over 35 luxury brands will be pouring over 100 amazing wines (For each of the featured Cabernets, wines retail at $50 or more). This event features the option of enjoying a 5:30 PM “Insignia” dinner with the President of Joseph Phelps Vineyards, Clarice Turner plus VIP tasting status **or** A 6 PM VIP Ticket providing early access to the Grand Tasting and includes:  (1) A Peninsula Buffet Dinner w/ Carving station, (2) an older vintage tasting during the VIP hour, (3) a limited collectable tasting of Dana Estate and Dominus Estate, AND (4) the full registry of over 100 luxury wines, both Cabernet and other celebrated efforts / varieties from all places of quality.  Both the 5:30 Dinner and the 6:00 PM VIP tickets include a VIP GIFT BAG of assorted artisanal treasures from various sponsors, with this year’s bag sponsored by GELSON’S. The 7PM ticket includes unlimited tasting and Peninsula Tray-Passed Appetizers with a Pasta station. All attending guests are also welcome to stay for the 9pm after party – when the music comes up and out comes the dessert!  Magic Castle Magician Zach Waldman (made infamous on The Howard Stern Show!) will be performing throughout  the evening showing off his sleight of hand expertise.

THE STARS OF CABERNET 2019 INCLUDE: 

Addendum, ZD Wines, Bernardus, Trujillo Wines, Bulgheroni Wine, Crown Point Vineyards, Chappellet, Almaviva, Joseph Phelps, Allegretto Winery, Jack Wines, Two Old Dogs, Beaulieu Vineyard, AXR, Clark Claudon, Michel Rolland, The Debate, V. Vineyards, Monteverro, Hawk & Horse Vineyards, Napanook, Frank Family Vineyards, Teachworth Napa, J. Bookwalter Wines, Palmaz Vineyards, Ehlers Estate Winery, Prime Solum, Seven Stones Winery, Relic, Duhig Wines, Hertelendy Vineyards, Marciano Estate,  Davis Estates, Barnett Vineyards, Chateau Montelena, Yount Ridge Cellars, Freemark Abbey, and a special wine made for Gelson’s by Winemaker Julien Fayard.  **A special pouring older vintages and from Dominus Estate, and Dana Estate are limited to the 6pm VIP ticket**

A robust and automated silent auction of collectables and large format wines will benefit The T.J. Martell Foundation, the music industry’s largest entity funding innovative medical research focused on finding cures for leukemia, cancer and AIDS, as well as sourcing/supporting early-stage research projects aimed at developing more effective clinical treatments for patients who otherwise cannot afford a panacea. Learn more at tjmartell.org.

Tickets will sell out and prices do increase as the event date approaches – buy your tickets now!

For information and ticket purchasing,  please visit STARSofcabernet.com

About TJ MARTELL FOUNDATION:  

The T.J. Martell Foundation is the music industry’s largest foundation that funds innovative medical research focused on finding cures for cancer. The Foundation sources and supports early-stage research projects aimed at developing more effective clinical treatments for patients which otherwise might not be funded.  WineLA has raised over $550,000 in the past 10 years for TJ MARTELL and this is our largest effort of the year.

About wineLA:

wineLA has focused on improving Los Angeles wine culture through ongoing educational tastings, classes and experiences. Educating and edu-taining with precision, we invite and welcome the best of the wine world to Los Angeles to partake.  Established in 1995, wineLA was the first of its kind and continues to innovate, fortifying a quality wine audience one class, one tasting, one experience at a time.  We are a part of the Los Angeles lifestyle, the wine lifestyle, and celebrate the people and the place with passion.

For more information visit www.wineLA.com or call  310-451-7600

Filed Under: Guests Tagged With: auction, charity, Chile, dessert, food event, France, los angeles, Napa Valley, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, sonoma county, stars of cabernet, vineyards, vintage, washington, wine dinner, Wine tasting, winela, winemaker, winery

Vintage Eve Circa 6/2016: Can’t Get Enough…STARS of California Part One

July 23, 2019 by evebushman

This time wine-expectant palates would sample over 100 wines from 40 wineries – and grow a knowledge of our varied California terroir – courtesy Ian Blackburn of WineLA.com in yet another “STARS” event. As you should’ve guessed, it was Stars of California, once again at The Peninsula Beverly Hills.

And, as some of these participants (listed below) were familiar to me from other tasting events in the last six months, which I have written about, this tasting I only tasted new vintages from those same sources, and a few wineries I was unfamiliar with. My likes and brief tasting notes are below under “Pour List” in italics. (And for my pals with a short attention span, of course I created a slideshow of the event.

The Pour List at Press Time:

ADOBE ROAD
Redline Cabernet Blend, Sonoma County 2012
Chardonnay, Bacigalupi Vineyard, Russian River Valley 2014
Cabernet Franc, Bavarian Lion Vineyard, Knights Valley 2014
Cabernet Sauvignon, Beckstoffer Georges the III, Napa Valley 2012

ALMA ROSA
Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2013
‘Clone 667’ Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2013
Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County 2014
Chardonnay, El Jabali Vineyard 2014

Always a pleasure to taste with winemaker Richard Sanford. His Pinot Noirs are continually well done, and along with Clos Pepe, really set the bar nice and high for Pinot in Sta. Rita Hills. This time I enjoyed the 2013 Pinot Noir and a 2014 Pinot Gris.

ANCIENT PEAKS WINERY
Sauvignon Blanc, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2014
Cabernet Sauvignon, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2014
Merlot, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2013
Renegade, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2013
Oyster Ridge, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2013
Loved the lemon and white peach in this Sauv Blanc, the Oyster Ridge Cab blend, the Renegade Syrah and the big, dry yet balanced 2013 Zin they also poured.

ARCHIUM CELLARS
Rose of Grenache 2015 – Watch Hill Vineyard, Los Alamos
“Dissident” GSM, Stolpman and Watch Hill Vineyards, Santa Barbara 2014
“Faction” Syrah, Stolpman Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley, Ballard Canyon 2014
“Haven” Grenache, Stolpman Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley, Ballard Canyon 2014

Every darn wine in this line-up made me smile. The Grenache was one I noted as an easy drinker, which translates to Drink Now.

BEEKEEPER CELLARS
Zinfandel, Madrone Spring Vineyard, Rockpile 2013
Zinfandel, Montecillo Vineyard, Sonoma Valley 2014

This is Ian’s wine, I have it every time, don’t miss it when you see it.

BERNARDUS WINERY
Pinot Noir, Pisoni Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 2013
Pinot Noir, Rosella’s Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 2013
Pinot Noir, Gary’s Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 2013
Rose of Pinot Noir SLH 2014

If you are ever in Carmel Valley, visit this winery.

BOUGETZ CELLARS
Sauvignon Blanc, Rutherford 2014
Pinot Noir, Catie’s Corner Vineyard 2014
Jovana Merlot/Cabernet Franc 2013
Cabernet Sauvignon, Amaryllis Spring Mountain District 2012

CA’ DEL GREVINO
Element Pinot Noir, Santa Maria 2012
Element Chardonnay, Santa Maria 2012
Pinot Noir, Santa Maria 2013
Riesling, Santa Maria 2013

CELLARS 33
Grenache Blanc 2015
Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2013
Pinot Noir, Gloria Vineyard 2013
Pinot Noir, Keefer Ranch 2013

COLE BAILEY
“Sesquipedalian” Cabernet Sauvignon, Cole Bailey Vineyards, Redwood Valley , Mendocino 2007
“Otters Road Trip Red, Cole Bailey Vineyards, Redwood Valley, Mendocino County NV

COQUELICOT ESTATE
Sauvignon Blanc, Coquelicot Estate Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley 2015
Riesling, , Santa Ynez Valley 2015
‘Estate Mon Amour’ Bordeaux Blend, Santa Ynez Valley 2011
‘Estate Sixer’ (94% Syrah, 6% Viognier), Santa Ynez Valley 2012

New vintages for me to try, that I thoroughly enjoyed, included the Mon Amour and Sixer. And they are all organic wines if that’s your preference.

CORDON
“L’Inox” Sauvignon Blanc, Lucas & Lewellen and Star Lane Vineyards, Happy Canyon 2015
“Les Jumeaux” Pinot Noir, Theresa Noell and John Sebastiano Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills 2014

DUTTON ESTATE
‘Karmen Isabella’ Pinot Noir, Russian River, Sonoma 2013
‘Kyndalls Reserve’ Chardonnay, Russian River, Sonoma 2013
‘Kylie’s Cuvee’ Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River, Sonoma 2015

FATHERS & DAUGHTERS CELLARS
Pinot Noir (Ella’s Reserve), Ferrington 2012
Pinot Noir (Ella’s Reserve), Ferrington 2013
Sauvignon Blanc, Ferrington 2014
Chardonnay, Ferrington 2014

FOXEN
Chenin Blanc, Ernesto Wickenden Vineyard 2014
Chardonnay, Bien Nacido Block UU 2014
Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley 2014
Pinot Noir, John Sebastiano Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills 2013

Always a favorite.

GALATEA EFFECT
Genception of Giants California Super Syrah 2011
Laminar Flow Pinot Noir 2013
Conoscenti Syrah 2011
Conoscenti Pinot Noir 2013
Conoscenti Rose’ 2013

This was a fun discovery, especially chatting with devoted CA winemaker that lives in AZ, Joel Clapick. My favorites were the Giants’ blend and the Rose.

GARDEN CREEK
Tesserae, Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

GRAEF WINE
Viognier, Casey Flat Ranch, Capay Valley 2015
Chardonnay, Bell Vineyard, Yountville, Napa County 2013
Syrah, Remembrance Vineyard, Lake County 2012

GROTH VINEYARDS & WINERY
Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley 2014
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville Napa Valley 2012
Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville Napa Valley 2012
Hillview Chardonnay, Napa Valley 2014

HAHN FAMILY
‘SLH’ Chardonnay, St. Lucia Highlands 2014
‘SLH’ Pinot Noir, St. Lucia Highlands 2014
Pinot Noir, Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard 2013
Pinot Noir, Lucienne Smith Vineyard 2013

Had the SLH (new label designation for Santa Lucia Highlands, much like Ballard Canyon’s new embossed bottle – both designed to help separate AVAs from the pack) Pinot Noir in my American Wine Cert class (yes I passed) and became an instant fan. This time I tried the Lucienne label and rejoiced in loving both that were shared. I found the Lone Oak slightly more delicate than the more traditional Smith vineyard.

HAWK AND HORSE
Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills, Lake County 2011
‘Block Three’ (95% Cab & 5% Petit Verdot), Red Hills, Lake County 2011
‘Latigo’ Cabernet Sauvignon fortified Port style Dessert Wine, Red Hills, Lake County 2011

I was introduced to Hawk and Horse when they sent me a “diamond” along with wines to sample. The marketing (diamond) caught my attention, as did the wines I was sent for review. I was happy to try the 2011 Cab and the Block Three red blend. These wines, both 2011 vintages, were just released. Love a wine that has spent a little more time in barrel and oak to suit the winemaker’s desired results.

HOYT FAMILY
Chardonnay, Santa Barbara 2014
Pinot Grigio, California 2013
Cabernet, Paso Robles 2012
Petite Sirah, Paso Robles 2012

Originally tasting Hoyt in a now defunct wine tasting room in Malibu, I was happy to see them at Ian’s event. Loved the Cab, Petite Sirah and a 2011 Tempranillo – all draped in medals.

L’AVENTURE WINERY
‘Optimus Estate’ Red Blend, Paso Robles 2013
Côte à Côte, Paso Robles 2013
Estate Cuvée, Paso Robles 2013

Always a treat when winemaker Stephan Asseo and/or L’Aventure comes out to any event. None of his wines ever disappoint my Rhône-driven palate. And this time, the Estate Cuvee made me pause; a smoky wine with rapturous balance. As I noticed every other taster at his table fail to pour out, I was so jealous to have to be working. 

Read Part 2 here next week! I will begin with the rest of this list and finish with what we tasted from the Paso Robles Cab Collective.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Filed Under: Eve Bushman Tagged With: beekeeper cellars, beverly hills, Cabernet Franc, cabernet sauvignon, California, Chardonnay, Grenache, Ian Blackburn, Merlot, Napa Valley, Paso Robles, Pinot Noir, Rose, Russian River Valley, Santa Barbara, santa lucia highlands, sonoma county, sta. rita hills, stars of california, Syrah, vineyard, wine event, Wine tasting, winela, wineries, Zinfandel

Blanc de Blancs and Henriot Champagne “Meditation” Tasting

July 5, 2019 by evebushman

Dressing in all white, as suggested by the event planners, is always special – when attending a wine tasting. I think I did it once before. Honestly, anytime I see someone wearing white to a wine event I think, whoa, there’s some confidence there. Not only are they sure of not spilling themselves, they’re (overly) confident others will reach the spittoon 100% of the time.

Our teaser: Join LA’s first ‘All White Wine’ showcase featuring some of the greatest white wines ever made! 

Besides all that delectable white wine the event also included several educational sessions, five in all, that we could step in on if space allowed. I was headed for the “Medi-Tasting – Meditation on champagne sponsored by Henriot” while others included: Champagne Session hosted by Master Sommelier Christopher Miller, Chardonnay Challenge hosted by Master Sommelier Nick Hetzel, Autres Blancs hosted by Master Sommelier Christopher Miller and Winemakers Panel sponsored by Jackson Family Wines. 

We started with a delightful lunch that was sponsored by the Jackson Family Estates…and then got into the wines: 

Tasting

These are all of the wineries at press time and I have bolded those that I was able to taste and particular vintages I enjoyed. See my photos to see more of them as well: Dom Perignon, Ruinart (NV Blanc de Blancs), Moet & Chandon (2009 vintage), La Crema, Cambria Estate (2018 Viognier, Tepusquet Vineyard), Brewer-Clifton (all Chards Greg Brewer poured, especially the 2018 Diatom Bar M), Seabold Cellars (2017 Dry Riesling and 2017 Olson Chardonnay), Copain Wines, Champagne Henriot, Bouchard Pere et Fils, William Fevre, Stonestreet (2016 Alexander Valley Chardonnay) , Matanzas Creek (2016 Knights Valley Sauvignon Blanc), Bernardus (2016 Chardonnay and 2012 Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc), Mail Road Wines (2014 Chardonnay), Cloudy Bay, Newton Vineyard, LAW Estate (2015, 16 and 17 “Soph” white Rhone blend), J.J. Vincent, Cuvaison, Pol Roger, Domaine Faiveley, Famille Vincent, Pascal Jolivet (2017 Sancerre “Sauvage”), Famille Hugel, Olivier Leflaive, Hecht & Bannier, Long Meadow Ranch, Stony Hill, Domaine Schlumberger, Famille Perrin, Miraval Provence, Chateau De Beaucastel, La Vielle Ferme, Domaine & Maison Alexandrins, Schloss Lieser, Reichsrat Von Buhl, Weingut Pfeffingen (2017 Estate Scheurebe), Weingut Okonomierat Rebholz (2014 Riesling), Schafer-Frohlich, Hans Wirsching (2016 Silvaner) and Becker Estate.

Medi-Tasting

See below for the details from the organizers, my takeaways from the session included looking at the wine as a beginner would to get a fresh outlook: listen to it – you will hear the ocean the wine may have traveled over before it arrived to you, put your finger in it, think about all that went on from planting to delivery and honor it. We practiced a bit of meditation as well, and noted how our frame of mind and stressors can add to or take away from our enjoyment. When we got down to tasting we already knew they would all be remarkable wines from Champagne Henriot – NV Blanc de Blancs, 2008 Brut Millesime (released a year ago, 100% Grand Cru) and 2005 Cuvee Hemera that I meditated the longest over as I found it so delicious.

Blanc de Blancs Medi-Tasting (Abbreviated From WineLA.com)

Medi-Tasting is a new, exciting and engaging wine tasting experience, created by Champagne Henriot, including practices of mindfulness to elevate the art of tasting…Elisha Goldstein, PhD, is co-founder of The Center for Mindful Living in West Los Angeles and creator of the 6-month coaching and mentorship program, A Course in Mindful Living. A psychologist, and international speaker and mindfulness educator, his books include Uncovering Happiness and The Now Effect…

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.

Filed Under: Eve Bushman Tagged With: beverly hills, blanc, champagne, Chardonnay, cuvee, late harvest, los angeles, master sommelier, Rhone, Riesling, Sancerre, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, white wine, wine event, Wine tasting, winela

Perlis Picks: Elevating Zinfandel

June 29, 2019 by Michael Perlis

Admittedly, the last few months have been difficult for my family and me. Stuff happens to all of us so the details aren’t necessary for this article, but getting the invitation to Ian Blackburn’s WineLA’s annual Elevating Zinfandel event was like a light at the end of the tunnel.

Wine people are good people and I often feel that Zinfandel people tend to be the best people of all. Tasting through a multitude of versions of my oft-favorite varietal amidst a great group of attendees and winery participants really helped to remind me of what makes Zinfandel special to me. I was determined to relax and enjoy.

So, I took my time. I didn’t try everything, but of what I did, these were the standouts for me. (If you want to see all the wines poured, here is the link to Eve’s article: http://evewine101.com/2019/06/14/eve-gets-her-zinfandel-on-at-elevating-zin-2019/)

My first stop was Mauritson Wines where Clay Mauritson was pouring a few of his Rockpile Zinfandels (2016 Rockpile Ridge Vineyard, 2017 Rockpile Ridge Vineyard and 2017 Jack’s Cabin Vineyard), along with one 2017 designated as Dry Creek Valley. The DCV was delicious, but I was there for the Rockpiles. I’ve written before how special a place I believe the Rockpile AVA to be, and nobody showcases the region better than Mauritson. And not rushing through the tasting was really a good idea. While Clay and I reminisced about our visit to Mauritson last year and chatted about this year’s upcoming Project Zin event, the wine had a little more time to develop in the glass. The wine was showing even more of that Rockpile richness and complexity.

Pouring next to Mauritson was WineLA’s Ian Blackburn himself providing tastes of his own Beekeeper Cellars Zinfandel. This is definitely not a vanity project for Ian. His wines are serious versions of this beloved grape. My favorite here was the 2016 Secret Stones from Rockpile, but the 2016 Monticello was no slouch either.

Besides the two wineries mentioned above, Sonoma County was very well represented at this tasting. As it should be; the area is definitely one of the top destinations for Karen and me. Wineries I especially enjoyed were:

Kreck – lighter in color as can often be the case with 100% Zinfandels, neither wine poured was light in flavor. Loved both the 2016 Teldeschi Vineyard and 2016 Del Barba Vineyard.

Martinelli Winery – this Russian River Valley legendary winery was somewhat of an eye-opener for me. I’ve always enjoyed their wines, but in the past the alcohol heat was just a little apparent. Not these 2016s. All three wines being poured were delicious and very “gulpable” and the Vigneto di Evo bottling is a veritable steal at its price point.

Portalupi Winery – this was a new winery to me. They actually have been around since 2002, specializing in Italian varietals. Fortunately, they also make Zinfandel, from the famed Dolinsek Ranch in the Russian River Valley. They were pouring their regular and reserve bottlings from 2016 and 2017, with the 2017 Reserve a solid candidate for my wine of the day.

Williams Selyem – known for Pinot Noir, this winery also makes a couple of excellent Zinfandels. My favorite was the 2017 Papera Vineyard, a heritage site that Karen and I had the pleasure of visiting a few years back.

Zialena – we also visited this winery not too long ago in the Alexander Valley. They were pouring their 2016 Estate and 2015 Estate Reserve bottlings and both were delicious.

Napa Valley, while known mainly for its Cabernet Sauvignon (for some reason), has some very good Zinfandel producers that sometimes fly under the radar.

Brown Estate – a true classic winery that makes you wonder why you don’t hear more about Napa Zin. They were pouring four of them today; my favorites were the 2017 Chiles Valley and Rosemary’s Block bottlings.

Robert Biale Vineyards – a winery that excels in Petite Sirah also, but today was about their 2017 Zinfandel. They make several Zins; the two being poured were the famed Black Chicken and the Stagecoach, both wonderful examples of what can come from this area.

Finally, it might not be considered a real Zinfandel event without Turley Wine Cellars. Whitney Turley, one of the four Turley sisters represented by the stars on Turley’s corks and one of two working at Turley Wine Cellars (along with her sister Christina), was pouring four 2017 Zins. Contrary to the other wineries, these were from neither Napa nor Sonoma. The Juvenile is possibly the best deal out there for Zinfandel [or maybe anything]. The other three single-vineyard wines all had special meaning to me: Kirschenmann Vineyard in Lodi [owned by Turley Director of Winemaking Tegan Passalacqua], Buck Cobb Vineyard in Amador County [from the old Karly winery] and the Dusi Vineyard in Paso Robles [my consistently favorite Turley wine]. It should go without saying that they were all delicious; we’re talking Turley, after all.

Wrapping up the afternoon tasting, I reflected on my very purposeful decision to not rush through and attempt to taste everything but to try to really appreciate the moment, the wines, and winery people pouring them. I highly recommend this approach. Thank you to Ian Blackburn and the entire staff of WineLA for putting on another great event. 

Michael Perlis has been pursuing his passion for wine for more than 25 years. He has had the good fortune of having numerous mentors to show him the way, as well as a wonderful wife who encourages him and shares his interest. After a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting wineries and vineyards, and tasting as much wine as he possibly could, he had the amazing luck to meet Eve Bushman. Now, as Contributing Editor for Eve’s Wine 101, he does his best to bring as much information as possible about wine to Eve’s Wine 101 faithful readers. Michael is also Vice President of Eve Bushman Consulting (fka Eve’s Wine 101 Consulting) http://evebushmanconsulting.com/ and President of MCP Financial. Michael can be contacted at michaelthezinfan@aol.com or michael@evebushmanconsulting.com

Filed Under: Michael Perlis Tagged With: ava, beekeeper cellars, dry creek valley, Ian Blackburn, Napa Valley, rockpile, sonoma county, varietal, vineyard, wine event, Wine tasting, winela, winery, Zinfandel

Eve Gets Her Zinfandel On…At Elevating Zin 2019

June 14, 2019 by evebushman

Michael Perlis and I are both big Zinfandel wine fans. Don’t get us wrong though, we love almost all varietals and our choices are completely dependent on what we are eating or the occasion. If the lesson is Rhones we’re there, Burgundy sometimes, Bordeaux varietals is pretty much a yes, and Zinfandel…well that just takes our collective breaths away. Big, bold, dusty and filled with mature dark fruit and tannins, our palates had been watering for weeks before we attended the latest Elevating Zin event produced again by Ian Blackburn for WineLA.com.

The Turley table pouring for Michael Perlis and Juan Alonso.

Below is the complete list of wines and wineries that were offered. The wines that were my favorites are noted in italics, my notes are in parenthesis and asterisks denote faves of the day. Look for Michael’s article on this website as well. Curious as it may appear, we don’t always love the same Zins, so it’s worth a look to read us both! Your palate may be just like one of ours. (Just want photos? Go here.)

Wine List (Most of the wineries, if not all, were delightfully represented by the winemaker and/or owner.)

Beekeeper Cellars

(These are Ian’s wines and always a favorite for me.)

Zinfandel, Secret Stones, Rockpile, Sonoma County 2016*

Zinfandel, Montecillo Vineyard, Sonoma County 2016*

 

Brown Estate

Zinfandel, Brown Estate, Chiles Valley, 2017*

Zinfandel Red Blend – Merlot, Zin, Petite Sirah, Napa, 2016*

Rosemary’s Block Zin – Zinfandel, Brown Estate, Chiles Valley, 2017

Chiles Valley Zinfandel – Zinfandel Brown Estate, Chiles Valley 2017*

 

Elyse Winery

(All wines are held 5 years.)

Zinfandel, Korte Ranch Vineyard, Saint Helena, 2013

Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley, 2013*

 

Frank Family Vineyards

Zinfandel, Napa 2016

 

Kreck

(A new winery and a new favorite for me.)

Old Vine Zinfandel, Teldeschi Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley, 2016*

Old Vine Zinfandel, Del Barba Vineyard, Contra Costa County, 2016*

 

Martinelli Winery

Zinfandel, Vellutini Ranch, Russian River Valley, 2016*

Zinfandel, Vigneto di Evo, Russian River Valley, 2016 (I missed this one.)

Zinfandel, Giuseppe & Luisa, Russian River Valley, 2016*

 

Mauritson Wines

(Been a fan since Michael introduced me to Clay Mauritson’s wines years ago)

Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley, 2017*

Zinfandel, Rockpile Ridge Vineyard, Rockpile, 2016*

Zinfandel, Rockpile Ridge Vineyard, Rockpile 2017*

Zinfandel, Jack’s Cabin Vineyard, Rockpile, 2017*

 

Portalupi Winery

(The winery also makes a Barbera and Charbono that I hope to review in the near future.)

Old Vine Zinfandel, Dolinsek Ranch, Russian River Valley, 2016

Old Vine Zinfandel, Reserve, Dolinsek Ranch, Russian River Valley, 2016

Old Vine Zinfandel, Dolinsek Ranch, Russian River Valley, 2017

Old Vine Zinfandel, Reserve, Dolinsek Ranch, Russian River Valley, 2017*

 

Ridge Vineyards

(Loved the addition of Petite Sirah and Alicante Bouschet in the 2016.)

68% Zin, 18% Carignane, 12% Petite Sirah, 2% Alicante Bouschet, Geyserville, Alexander Valley, 2017

Zinfandel, East Bench, Dry Creek Valley, 2017

88% Zinfandel, 9% Petite Sirah, 3% Alicante Bouschet, Pagani Ranch, Sonoma Valley, 2016*

 

Robert Biale Vineyards

(Another winery Michael turned me onto.)

Black Chicken Zinfandel, Napa Valley, 2017

Stagecoach Vineyard Zinfandel, Napa Valley, 2017*

 

Turley Wine Cellars

(Interesting to me that it was the two Turleys I was unfamiliar with that were my favorites – from Lodi and Amador County.)

Zinfandel, Juvenile, California, 2017

Zinfandel, Kirschenmann Vineyard, Lodi, 2017*

Zinfandel, Buck Cobb Vineyard, Amador County, 2017*

Zinfandel, Dusi Vineyard, Paso Robles, 2017

 

William Selym 

(Most of us are familiar with their Pinot Noirs, was a treat to try their Zins.)

Papera Vineyard Zinfandel, Russian River Valley 2017

Fanucchi – Wood Road Zinfandel, Russian River Valley 2017

 

Zialena 

Zinfandel, Estate, Alexander Valley, 2016

Zinfandel, Estate, Alexander Valley, 2015 Reserve*

Zinfandel, Estate, Alexander Valley, 2014 Reserve

Zinfandel, Estate, Alexander Valley, 2013 Reserve

 

(Please forgive me for missing these two wineries listed below = palate fatigue.)

Bella Vineyards and Wine Caves

Dry Creek Zinfandel, 2016

Big River Ranch Zinfandel, 2015

Barrel 32 Zinfandel, 2016

 

Seghesio Family Vineyards

Zinfandel, Home Ranch Vineyard, Alexander Valley, 2015

Zinfandel, Cortina, Dry Creek Valley, 2015

Zinfandel, Old Vine, Sonoma County, 2015

Zinfandel, Mariah Vineyard, Mendocino Ridge, 2017

 

(* faves of the day) 

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.

Filed Under: Eve Bushman Tagged With: alexander Valley, Alicante Bouchet, carignane, cellar, dry creek valley, Ian Blackburn, Lodi, Merlot, Napa, old vine, palate, Paso Robles, Petite Sirah, rockpile, Russian River Valley, sonoma county, st. helena, tannins, wine event, Wine tasting, winela, winery, Zinfandel

Vintage Eve Circa 5/2016: Elevating Zinfandel via Winela.com

April 30, 2019 by evebushman

Elevating Zinfandel was a tasting event I attended, once again put on by WineLa.com, in which the guest could not only sample an array of California “Zin” (the common abbreviation), but by doing so elevate the senses as only one can that attends a single varietal tasting.

Eve and WineLA.com founder Ian Blackburn

For wine 101ers I’ve found one of the best way to educate the palate is to either taste through a flight or more of the same variety, or in tastings organized by entities such as WineLA to taste similar wines, like their (now past) Burgundy vs. Pinot Noir on 5/28. The taster then has an opportunity to learn and then discern the differences in terroir (the common term denoting where the wine was made, so as to include weather, soil, terrain, etc.) as their palate adjusts.

Though host Ian Blackburn may have chosen the term “elevate” as he had chosen some of the finest expressions of Zin, the lesson is still learned:

WineLA has teamed up with some of the worlds best Zinfandel Producers to bring you “Elevating Zinfandel”! An event geared on showcasing the “Crème de la crème” of the Zinfandel community in one fabulous location. With beautiful breads and snacks provided by La Brea Bakery Cafe, you will have the chance to meet with the wine producers as well as purchase some of these exclusive wines.

For me in this tasting, though I bow to the wealth of experience tasting Zin that my Contributing Editor Michael Perlis has had as he is the true Zin Fan (as his email, MichaelTheZinFan@aol.com, suggests) and knew many of the winemakers Blackburn rallied for the event, the subtle differences I could pick out (dark fruit, earth, mouthfeel and spice) helped me select my favorites in bold below.

Wine List 

Bedrock (most of these wines, all blends, started with at least 40% Zin.)

Evangelho Vineyard Heritage Wine 2014

Bedrock Vineyards Heritage Wine 2014

Nervo Ranch Heritage Wine 2014

Old Vine Zinfandel 2014

Beekeeper (Ian Blackburn’s own wine made alongside winemaker Clay Mauritson who was also in attendance pouring his own label.)

Zinfandel, Madrone Spring Vineyard, Rockpile 2013
Zinfandel, Montecillo Vineyard, Sonoma Valley 2014

Robert Biale Vineyards (I’ve seen this label frequently during my staff lunches…brought by Michael Perlis)

Black Chicken Zinfandel Napa Valley 2014
Founding Farmers Zinfandel Napa Valley 2014
Grande Vineyard Zinfandel Napa Valley 2013
Old Kraft Vineyard Zinfandel St. Helena 2013

Brown Estates

Zinfandel, Napa Valley 2014
Mickey’s Block Zinfandel, Napa Valley 2014

Zinfandel Rosé 2015 (a crowd fave, and a great palate refresher for me.)

Chase Cellars

Hayne Vineyard Zinfandel-St Helena, Napa Valley 2013
Hayne Vineyard Zinfandel-St Helena, Napa Valley 2012

Hayne Vineyard Zinfandel-St Helena, Napa Valley 2011

Hendry

Hendry Blocks 7 & 22 Zinfandel
Hendry Block 28 Zinfandel
Mike & Molly Zinfandel

Jeff Cohn Cellars

Zinfandel, Shake Ridge Vineyard 2013
Zinfandel, St. Peter’s Church 2013
Zinfandel, Hayne Vineyard 2013
Zinfandel, Sweetwater Springs 2012

Martinelli (Another Perlis fave and was often covered for Eve’s Wine 101 by contributor Rick Fraga during his tenure with the winery.)

Giuseppe & Luisa Zinfandel 2014
Lolita Ranch, Russian River Valley, Zinfandel 2012
Vellutini Ranch Zinfandel 2012

Mauritson

Rockpile “Rockpile Ridge Vineyard” Zinfandel 2014
Rockpile “Cemetery Vineyard” Zinfandel 2014

Quivira (wine creek)

Black Boar Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley 2013
Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley 2013

Rafanelli

Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley 2013

Ridge Wines

Geyserville Zinfandel Blend, Alexander Valley 2014
Zinfandel, Dusi Ranch, Paso Robles 2014
Zinfandel Blend, Lytton Springs, Dry Creek Valley 2013

East Bench Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley 2014

Seghesio (A Wine Spectator previous designate of wine – a Zin – of the year.)

Cortina Zinfandel 2013
Old Vine Zinfandel 2013
Rockpile Zinfandel 2013

Turley (Not usual to find Turley “cult” wines at an event, or the lovely Director of Sales and Marketing Christina Turley pouring them, this was a real treat for me that I thoroughly enjoyed. And yet another wine that Perlis introduced me to years ago.)

Juvenile Zinfandel, California 2014
Kirschenmann Vineyard Zinfandel, Lodi 2014
Dusi Vineyard Zinfandel, Paso Robles 2014
Rattlesnake Ridge Zinfandel, Howell Mountain 2014

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Filed Under: Eve Bushman Tagged With: California, dry creek, fruit, howell mountain, mouthfeel, Napa Valley, old vine, palate, rockpile, Russian River Valley, soil, Sonoma, spice, st. helena, terroir, vineyard, weather, wine 101, winela, Zinfandel

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Eve Bushman

Eve Bushman, owner Eve’s Wine 101 and Eve Bushman Consulting.

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