Perception is a powerful influence on opinion and takes time, patience and evidence to change. In the wine world, this dynamic is stubborn and takes a strong and persistent communications effort for success.
For the past five years I have observed, researched and reported on the progress of Temecula Wine Country to convince the wine world that it deserves recognition as a quality wine making appellation that can produce fine wines, with grape varietals from anywhere in the world.
Another opportunity to steer public perception is at hand for Temecula Wine Country when the World of Wine 2010 is presented Saturday and Sunday March 6 and 7 from 10am to 4:30pm, with 25 Temecula wineries participating. The theme aims to show how these wineries can take old world varietals, barrel or bottle-ready and full of flavor, and showcase a tasting experience as good as any available. The wines are part of a self-guided tour, perfectly paired with gourmet food samplings. Ticket holders will receive a map of the Valley, a passport which allows access to the wineries and a souvenir glass.
The World of Wine comes to Temecula March 6 & 7. Rhone Valley wines from Thornton Winery are shown being poured.
Two names to know who have recently done well are: Callaway Vineyards &Winery and Briar Rose Winery. Callaway, with 40 years of winemaking, recently received a Gold Medal at the 2010 San Francisco Chronicle Competition for its 2008 Winemaker’s Reserve Late Harvest Cabernet, and a Double Gold Medal at the 2010 Florida State Fair Competition for its 2009 Special Selection Rose of Sangiovese.
“Taste the Enchantment” is the theme of Briar Rose Winery, operated by Les and Dorian Linkogle. Small lot, limited production, lush intense flavors have placed Briar Rose in a prestigious place in Southern California’s wine roll call of celebrity-style winemaking. Their new release Estate Collection 2007 Cabernet is worth looking for when the World of Wine Event comes around March 6 & 7. For more information including ticket orders, go to www.temeculawines.org.
Corks Popping at VINZ Lounge and Wine Bar
If you build it, they will come. Customers are filling up the lounge and wine bar that Vinnie Griffin recently built on Grand in Downtown Escondido. The vibes are happy and exciting as the music, food and wine fills the place with energy.
Vinnie works with several Central Coast wineries and has close relationships with the likes of Eberle and Cambria. The food packs the menu with a huge variety of choices. “Everything is homemade including the sauces and salad dressings,” he said.
Impresario Vinnie Griffin with a magnum of Cambria Cab at his VINZ Lounge and Wine Bar in Escondido.“From Tapas to Lasagna to Beef Wellington, I cook my own creations. There’s something for everyone, and you can dine in our entertainment lounge or a quieter more intimate room.” The musicians and stage are close and personal. Jimmy Patton was jamming on a flemenco guitar with a latin samba duo that made for fun listening and dancing. Vinnie is already master-planning a European style outdoor garden with artisan Italian Pizzas to add to his German deli offerings. New wines are being introduced weekly with wine flights to pair with special menu items.
I had an Eberle ’07 Cotes-du-Robles blend of Granache, Mouvrede and Syrah, beautifully crafted by the pioneer winery in Paso Robles.
Vinnie is a well known veteran restaurateur in Escondido and his new wine bar and lounge raises the bar for fine food, wine and a fun time. Reservations for the dinner lounge on weekends are recommended by calling 760-743-VINO ( 8466).
Wine Bytes
§ Meritage Wine Market in Encinitas will be spotlighting Rhone Wines at their weekly wine tasting on Fri. Feb. 26 from 6 to 8pm. Check for pricing at 760-479-2500.
§ A Laguna Beach Winery Bus Tour is being planned for Sat. Feb. 27 from 9am to 6pm. Bus boarding at Del Sur Ranch House. Tour will include: Oaks Ranch and Laguna Canyon Wineries. Fee is $65. ea. Details at 858-759-2779.
§ The Pacific Coast Wine Festival is Sat. March 6 from 5pm at the Island Hotel in Newport Beach. This posh affair includes a sumptuous dinner, premium wine tastings, sommeliers and both a live and silent auction. Tickets are $250. pp. To purchase tickets or a table, contact 714-876-2364.
§ California Reds are the tasting theme for San Diego Wine Company’s next event on Sat. Feb. 27 from 11 to 4:30pm. $10. fee. Call 858-586-9463.
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