By Janene Roberts
I was at the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival’s Top Chef Cooking class last week at Macy’s. Here’s a video of part of their presentation.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
Wind and Rain, and Wine, Oh My!
Taste Of Wine TV host J.T. Meadows and Taste Of Wine TV producer Mike Bragg braved the elements at the Grand Event of the 2010 San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival to get out and chat with some of the dedicated vendors who kept attendees well-fed and well beveraged during a rainy, windy afternoon at the Embarcadero.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Taste of Wine TV Visits Chef Scotty Wagner at Eden in Hillcrest
Preview of the Wine Rave Party during this week's San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
San Diego Bay Wine and Food Festival is this week
By Janene Roberts
I often have discussions with my client at the San Diego Culinary Institute about the exciting changes the last ten years have seen in the San Diego culinary scene. Many people are surprised when I mention I work with a high-level culinary school here,
"We have a culinary school in San Diego?" I'm often asked. It's the same sort of reaction I get when I mention that there are quite a few artisan wineries here too.
Anyway, I have a lot of respect for the producers of the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival because they've recognized this trend and have created a week-long celebration (starting this week) of these creators–And it's right before the holiday food season when most of us want to be up on the latest wines to pair for Thanksgiving and Christmas meals and how to cook using the local, organic produce at our farmers markets.
With the rock star status chefs have been getting lately, I'm proud to say some of the local stars have ties to training at the San Diego Culinary Institute. Can you guess one of them? A hint, he was on that sleeper show on Bravo called, yawn, Top Chef.
Anyway, if you want to get up close and semi-personal with these demigods you'll find them at the Festival's Tastemaker Dinner Series where they've matched nationally acclaimed chefs with local celebrity chefs.
Thursday, November 18, 6pm
It's Chef Suzette Gresham and Chef William Bradley for an Italian inspired seven course meal paired with Domaine Serene wine.
At another venue you'll find Chefs Thierry Rautureau and Paul McCabe presenting a four course meal plus dessert with wines by Justin Winery.
Friday, November 19, 6pm
Chefs Kim Canteenwalla, Deborah Scott and Mike Suttles are creating a five course meal with wines by Robert Mondavi.
Another dinner matches Chefs Billy Strynkowski and Scott Wagner preparing a five course meal paired with Zonin USA wine.
You'll find the complete list of events, dinners, classes and grand festival information in all price ranges at the festival's website www.worldofwineevents.com. Event runs from November 17 to the 21st.
I often have discussions with my client at the San Diego Culinary Institute about the exciting changes the last ten years have seen in the San Diego culinary scene. Many people are surprised when I mention I work with a high-level culinary school here,
"We have a culinary school in San Diego?" I'm often asked. It's the same sort of reaction I get when I mention that there are quite a few artisan wineries here too.
Anyway, I have a lot of respect for the producers of the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival because they've recognized this trend and have created a week-long celebration (starting this week) of these creators–And it's right before the holiday food season when most of us want to be up on the latest wines to pair for Thanksgiving and Christmas meals and how to cook using the local, organic produce at our farmers markets.
With the rock star status chefs have been getting lately, I'm proud to say some of the local stars have ties to training at the San Diego Culinary Institute. Can you guess one of them? A hint, he was on that sleeper show on Bravo called, yawn, Top Chef.
Anyway, if you want to get up close and semi-personal with these demigods you'll find them at the Festival's Tastemaker Dinner Series where they've matched nationally acclaimed chefs with local celebrity chefs.
Thursday, November 18, 6pm
It's Chef Suzette Gresham and Chef William Bradley for an Italian inspired seven course meal paired with Domaine Serene wine.
At another venue you'll find Chefs Thierry Rautureau and Paul McCabe presenting a four course meal plus dessert with wines by Justin Winery.
Friday, November 19, 6pm
Chefs Kim Canteenwalla, Deborah Scott and Mike Suttles are creating a five course meal with wines by Robert Mondavi.
Another dinner matches Chefs Billy Strynkowski and Scott Wagner preparing a five course meal paired with Zonin USA wine.
You'll find the complete list of events, dinners, classes and grand festival information in all price ranges at the festival's website www.worldofwineevents.com. Event runs from November 17 to the 21st.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
San Diego Bay Warms Up to the Wine/Food Festival
by Frank Mangio
The Thanksgiving holiday is nearly here, an opportune time to gather friends for food, wine and good times. The same can be said for another tradition in San Diego, a week earlier.
From Wednesday November 17 through Sunday November 21, the San Diego Bay Wine and Food Festival consumes the hearts and minds of all involved with an international showcase of premier wines and spirits, chefs and gourmet foods.
Over 800 wines and spirits, 70 of San Diego’s top restaurants and 30 gourmet food companies will participate in this 7th annual extravaganza, with venues like Macy’s, the San Diego Wine & Culinary Center, the Hornblower Inspiration Super Yacht, Embarcadero Park North next to Seaport Village and Roy’s San Diego Waterfront.
New this year is the Tastemaker Dinner Series at various venues Wednesday and Thursday November 17 and 18 with a 6pm start. Restaurants chosen include: Addison at the Grand Del Mar, the Westgate’s Fountainbleau, Island Prime, Kitchen 1540 and Specialty Produce Warehouse.
Over 9,000 are expected to attend the 5 day festival which is considered by experts to be in the top 5 of the top 100 events in Southern California for the past three years.
The Celebrity Chef’s Luncheon on Sunday November 21 is a select lineup of the best of… presented by Wine Spectator Magazine including 7 big names to help create a six course meal paired with some first class wines. A big bottle auction will raise funds for the American Institute of Wine and Food, dedicated to raising funds for their scholarship program.
A favorite of mine is the Friday November 19 Master Sommelier Blind Tasting, with host and Master Sommelier Joseph Spellman of Justin Winery in Paso Robles. He will lead a panel as they blind-taste a number of international wines. They will break identify varietal, vintage, location, smell and taste to identify each of several wine challenges. All are local sommeliers in San Diego restaurants. The audience tastes along with the panel. This event is held from 4 to 5:30pm at the San Diego Wine & Culinary Center.
Well, after all that you’ve got to ready to roll into all the festival has to offer. Learn more about times, events and pricing at the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival, visiting the web site at www.worldofwineevents.com. Or call 858-578-9463. We’ll see you there!
Wine Bytes
South Coast Winery Restaurant in Costa Mesa Orange County is having a winemaker’s 5 course dinner Sat. Nov. 13 beginning at 6pm. $95. pp. Call 714-957-1857 to RSVP.
Tues. Nov. 16, 3rd Corner Wine Shop & Bistro in Encinitas has a 5 course winery dinner with Hall Winery of Napa Valley. Start time is 6pm. Cost is $70. RSVP’s at 760-942-2104
Firefly Restaurant in Encinitas is planning a Spring Mountain Wine Dinner Wed. Nov. 17 at 6:30pm. 4 course dinner plus reception. Cost is $89. ea. Call 760-635-1066.
San Pasqual Winery with locations in San Diego and La Mesa now has weekday “Happy Hour” specials from 4 to 6pm. Check out details at 619-462-1797.
Orfila Winery in Escondido presents their 11th annual Futures Dinner, including 4 course dinner, live music and dancing. Merlot and Syrah Futures will be served. $125. ea. Reserve at 760-738-6500.
The Thanksgiving holiday is nearly here, an opportune time to gather friends for food, wine and good times. The same can be said for another tradition in San Diego, a week earlier.
From Wednesday November 17 through Sunday November 21, the San Diego Bay Wine and Food Festival consumes the hearts and minds of all involved with an international showcase of premier wines and spirits, chefs and gourmet foods.
Over 800 wines and spirits, 70 of San Diego’s top restaurants and 30 gourmet food companies will participate in this 7th annual extravaganza, with venues like Macy’s, the San Diego Wine & Culinary Center, the Hornblower Inspiration Super Yacht, Embarcadero Park North next to Seaport Village and Roy’s San Diego Waterfront.
New this year is the Tastemaker Dinner Series at various venues Wednesday and Thursday November 17 and 18 with a 6pm start. Restaurants chosen include: Addison at the Grand Del Mar, the Westgate’s Fountainbleau, Island Prime, Kitchen 1540 and Specialty Produce Warehouse.
Over 9,000 are expected to attend the 5 day festival which is considered by experts to be in the top 5 of the top 100 events in Southern California for the past three years. The Celebrity Chef’s Luncheon on Sunday November 21 is a select lineup of the best of… presented by Wine Spectator Magazine including 7 big names to help create a six course meal paired with some first class wines. A big bottle auction will raise funds for the American Institute of Wine and Food, dedicated to raising funds for their scholarship program.
A favorite of mine is the Friday November 19 Master Sommelier Blind Tasting, with host and Master Sommelier Joseph Spellman of Justin Winery in Paso Robles. He will lead a panel as they blind-taste a number of international wines. They will break identify varietal, vintage, location, smell and taste to identify each of several wine challenges. All are local sommeliers in San Diego restaurants. The audience tastes along with the panel. This event is held from 4 to 5:30pm at the San Diego Wine & Culinary Center.
Well, after all that you’ve got to ready to roll into all the festival has to offer. Learn more about times, events and pricing at the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival, visiting the web site at www.worldofwineevents.com. Or call 858-578-9463. We’ll see you there!
Wine Bytes
South Coast Winery Restaurant in Costa Mesa Orange County is having a winemaker’s 5 course dinner Sat. Nov. 13 beginning at 6pm. $95. pp. Call 714-957-1857 to RSVP.
Tues. Nov. 16, 3rd Corner Wine Shop & Bistro in Encinitas has a 5 course winery dinner with Hall Winery of Napa Valley. Start time is 6pm. Cost is $70. RSVP’s at 760-942-2104
Firefly Restaurant in Encinitas is planning a Spring Mountain Wine Dinner Wed. Nov. 17 at 6:30pm. 4 course dinner plus reception. Cost is $89. ea. Call 760-635-1066.
San Pasqual Winery with locations in San Diego and La Mesa now has weekday “Happy Hour” specials from 4 to 6pm. Check out details at 619-462-1797.
Orfila Winery in Escondido presents their 11th annual Futures Dinner, including 4 course dinner, live music and dancing. Merlot and Syrah Futures will be served. $125. ea. Reserve at 760-738-6500.
Wining and Dining: the Latest from Temecula
by Frank Mangio
A short time ago, I was cruising my way through a lifestyle expo in Del Mar when I noticed a strikingly attractive hardcover book at a booth, “Temecula Wine Country-Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Wineries in Temecula.” It contained vivid pictures and text of the appellation, its estates, maps, wines and annual events.
Gia Lucy, the author, is a passionate travel writer from nearby San Clemente who fell in love with the rolling hills of Temecula Wine Country. This wine area is undergoing a surge in interest and growth, yet it retains the country-cool of family owned hospitality. I recommend you look in local book shops and access the web at www.gialucy.com. The phone number is 949-395-2878.
The recent Temecula 20th annual Harvest Celebration was a superb collaboration of the Winegrowers Association and member wineries that uncorked sample barrels for visitors to taste, as well as new release bottles.
At Mt. Palomar Winery, a location that will soon expand and renovate its facilities, the “barrel tender” was pouring two kinds of Sangiovese from the 2008 vintage: one stored in French Oak which gave it a vanilla, toasted hint with some coffee features. The 2nd choice was American Oak which suggested a cedar aroma, more domestic than European.
Other wines taste-tested were the ’07 Petite Sirah, a “sock it to me” peppery style wine, and an ’07 Cinsaut, a little known French Rhone varietal of strawberry and cinnamon flavors that I thought was the best of Mt. Palomar’s offerings.
On to Briar Rose with proprietors Dorian and Les Linkogle. I can always expect a surprise or two from these two hosts, and sure enough, library wines came out, including a 100 year old Port. But the most fun was reserved for the appearance of Bruce Kanegai who is one of the producers of the hit TV show, SURVIVOR. Briar Rose is known for sudden arrivals of Hollywood celebrities and Bruce and his entourage were no exception. The “blew-me –away” favorite wine here was the ’04 Cabernet Franc.
TASTE OF WINE columnist Frank Mangio with SURVIVOR TV Producer Bruce Kanegai and Briar Rose owner and Winemaker Les Linkogle.
Cougar Winery was next with Rick Buffington with his handcrafted, small lots of Italian style wine. Rick was offering a barrel-selected ’08 Full Monte, a Montepulciano di Abruzzo and his latest Sangiovese, the ’08. His Italian meatballs were a perfect soul food companion to the Italian lineup of reds.
In case you are wondering about Full Monte, it’s the name of his 8 week old Labrador Retriever wine puppy!
Danza Del Sol is the latest name on the growing list of Temecula wineries. It was formerly known as Filsinger. Bob Olson, the new owner, hired Mike Tingley from Keyways and the lineup has already won gold for its ’09 Chardonnay. He was also pouring some Rhone style reds: the ’08 Syrah (not yet released) and the ’08 Grenache with a strawberry/licorice flavor.
Speaking of things Mediterranean, try the new menu at the Pinnacle Restaurant, part of Falkner Winery. Ray and Loretta Falkner, working with Executive Chef Gianni Ciciliot, have an “eat healthy” selection that uses extensive olive oil, fruits and vegetables to enhance the entrees. Lunch is served daily from 11:30 to 3:30pm. See www.falknerwinery.com.
Wine Bytes
Baker& Olive in Encinitas is at Dolce Pane e Vino of Rancho Santa Fe Tues. Nov. 16 at 6pm for an Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar Pairing dinner. It’s a five-course dinner with 5 great wines to accompany. $65. pp. Reserve at 858-832-1518.
Bacchus Wine Market presents the latest Pinot Noir Fri. Nov. 26 from 4 to 8:30pm, in San Diego’s Gaslamp district. Cost is $20. More at 619-236-0005.
San Diego Wine Company has a Sparkling Wine and Champagne Tasting, Sat. Nov. 27, 11am, 12:30,, 2 and 3:30pm. Fee is $25. RSVP which time you want at 858-586-WINE.
Looking ahead, if you are heading up to Napa Valley, the city of Yountville is decking the halls and getting jolly with its Winterscape Celebration starting Wed. Dec. 1. Twinkling lights, carriage rides, public art and night hours for tasting rooms, for starters. Get the full story at www.yountville.com.
A short time ago, I was cruising my way through a lifestyle expo in Del Mar when I noticed a strikingly attractive hardcover book at a booth, “Temecula Wine Country-Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Wineries in Temecula.” It contained vivid pictures and text of the appellation, its estates, maps, wines and annual events.
Gia Lucy, the author, is a passionate travel writer from nearby San Clemente who fell in love with the rolling hills of Temecula Wine Country. This wine area is undergoing a surge in interest and growth, yet it retains the country-cool of family owned hospitality. I recommend you look in local book shops and access the web at www.gialucy.com. The phone number is 949-395-2878.
The recent Temecula 20th annual Harvest Celebration was a superb collaboration of the Winegrowers Association and member wineries that uncorked sample barrels for visitors to taste, as well as new release bottles.
At Mt. Palomar Winery, a location that will soon expand and renovate its facilities, the “barrel tender” was pouring two kinds of Sangiovese from the 2008 vintage: one stored in French Oak which gave it a vanilla, toasted hint with some coffee features. The 2nd choice was American Oak which suggested a cedar aroma, more domestic than European.
Other wines taste-tested were the ’07 Petite Sirah, a “sock it to me” peppery style wine, and an ’07 Cinsaut, a little known French Rhone varietal of strawberry and cinnamon flavors that I thought was the best of Mt. Palomar’s offerings.
On to Briar Rose with proprietors Dorian and Les Linkogle. I can always expect a surprise or two from these two hosts, and sure enough, library wines came out, including a 100 year old Port. But the most fun was reserved for the appearance of Bruce Kanegai who is one of the producers of the hit TV show, SURVIVOR. Briar Rose is known for sudden arrivals of Hollywood celebrities and Bruce and his entourage were no exception. The “blew-me –away” favorite wine here was the ’04 Cabernet Franc.
TASTE OF WINE columnist Frank Mangio with SURVIVOR TV Producer Bruce Kanegai and Briar Rose owner and Winemaker Les Linkogle.Cougar Winery was next with Rick Buffington with his handcrafted, small lots of Italian style wine. Rick was offering a barrel-selected ’08 Full Monte, a Montepulciano di Abruzzo and his latest Sangiovese, the ’08. His Italian meatballs were a perfect soul food companion to the Italian lineup of reds.
In case you are wondering about Full Monte, it’s the name of his 8 week old Labrador Retriever wine puppy!
Danza Del Sol is the latest name on the growing list of Temecula wineries. It was formerly known as Filsinger. Bob Olson, the new owner, hired Mike Tingley from Keyways and the lineup has already won gold for its ’09 Chardonnay. He was also pouring some Rhone style reds: the ’08 Syrah (not yet released) and the ’08 Grenache with a strawberry/licorice flavor.
Speaking of things Mediterranean, try the new menu at the Pinnacle Restaurant, part of Falkner Winery. Ray and Loretta Falkner, working with Executive Chef Gianni Ciciliot, have an “eat healthy” selection that uses extensive olive oil, fruits and vegetables to enhance the entrees. Lunch is served daily from 11:30 to 3:30pm. See www.falknerwinery.com.
Wine Bytes
Baker& Olive in Encinitas is at Dolce Pane e Vino of Rancho Santa Fe Tues. Nov. 16 at 6pm for an Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar Pairing dinner. It’s a five-course dinner with 5 great wines to accompany. $65. pp. Reserve at 858-832-1518.
Bacchus Wine Market presents the latest Pinot Noir Fri. Nov. 26 from 4 to 8:30pm, in San Diego’s Gaslamp district. Cost is $20. More at 619-236-0005.
San Diego Wine Company has a Sparkling Wine and Champagne Tasting, Sat. Nov. 27, 11am, 12:30,, 2 and 3:30pm. Fee is $25. RSVP which time you want at 858-586-WINE.
Looking ahead, if you are heading up to Napa Valley, the city of Yountville is decking the halls and getting jolly with its Winterscape Celebration starting Wed. Dec. 1. Twinkling lights, carriage rides, public art and night hours for tasting rooms, for starters. Get the full story at www.yountville.com.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Slow Food, Great Wine Highlight New Supper Club
Winemaker Chris Johnston and Chef LeahMiddle Ridge Winery is teaming up with Slow Food Diva and Chef Leah Delyte Di Bernardo to celebrate memorable evenings of wine and seasonal food starting in November.
The Middle Ridge Monthly Supper Club Series is modeled after an informal dining society and focuses on one-of-a-kind menus made fresh from local gardens and paired with local wine in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.
The inaugural dinner will be held on Nov. 18 at 6:30 p.m. at E.A.T Marketplace (Extraordinary Artisan Takeaway), 27535 Jefferson Ave. in Temecula. Cost is $65 per person and includes tax and gratuity. Seating is limited. Make reservations by calling (951) 699-8897, ext. 101.
A three-course gourmet meal that is paired with award-winning wines embodies the philosophies of Chef Leah and Middle Ridge winemaker Chris Johnston.
The menu is inspired from Chef Leah's recent trip to the Piedmont district of Italy -- organic mixed greens, toasted almonds, pepita nuts, cypress grove blue cheese, poached grapes and pomegranate seeds. It also includes flat bread baked with herbs and cheese and Jidori organic chicken, slow roasted over cipollini onions, pumpkin and fennel. Dessert is a divine surprise! The second dinner in the series is slated for Dec. 9.
Middle Ridge Winery is just one year old but Johnston and his wife, Melody, have made clear their commitment to bring people together through the enjoyment of handcrafted, artisan wine. A successful entrepreneur and data communications expert, Chris follows his winemaking passion by carefully selecting grapes and closely monitoring the wine through the fermentation and aging processes.
Chef Leah has been charming Temecula Valley palates for years. She is executive chef of Delyte's - a slow food inspired catering company and E.A.T Marketplace (E.A.T- Extraordinary Artisan Takeaway), which is set to open in January 2011. E.A.T Marketplace will offer locally foraged and hand crafted meals to go, along with wine, artisan beer, olive oil and many more delights. Chef Leah is the founder and president of the Slow Food Temecula Valley Chapter, which focuses on good, clean and fair produce, artisan foods and wine that is all locally produced.
Award-winning Middle Ridge wines are available at selected restaurants in Idyllwild, Idyll Awhile Wine Shoppe & Bistro in Idyllwild, online at www.middleridge.com and through The Collective at 28544 Front Street in Temecula, CA, which serves as a tasting room for Middle Ridge Winery.
Middle Ridge is a boutique winery born in the mountain arts community of Idyllwild, CA. The friendliness of the small town inspired winemaker Chris Johnston to bring people together to enjoy and learn about handcrafted, artisan wines in comfortable, inviting settings. Middle Ridges philosophy is simple: to have a conversation with everyone who comes in contact with the winery.
For more information on Middle Ridge, go to www.middleridge.com or call (949) 861-1459.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
The Two Sides of Catalina Island
by Frank Mangio
The Catalina Express speed boat from San Pedro to Two Harbors, Catalina Island, drew up to the dock. I gazed around at the surroundings on this first-time visit for the next few days and couldn’t help think I was in a virtually undiscovered paradise, just 12 miles from Avalon, the bustling, tourist-driven Catalina hot spot which is like many of the beach communities of Southern California.
I was there with Sonoma based Winery Pedroncelli and their Southern California manager Mark Abraham to present a signature magnum to Banning House Lodge Bed and Breakfast, in celebration of their 100th anniversary.
Kate Panzer is the Innkeeper and couldn’t be happier. “It’s an ideal, timeless place to work and live, with guests who become friends and return year after year,” she said with a big smile. “Here, buffalo really do roam, brought here years ago for western movies (we met 3 of them on the road). Many were transported to South Dakota, but 100 still live close by.”
I learned that the chewing gum magnates, the Wrigley Family, purchased the property and the island in 1918 and family companies still operate the various enterprises that attract boaters and tourists.
Banner House has stunning views of Catalina Harbor on the mainland side, and Isthmus Cove and 4th of July Cove on the Pacific Ocean side. The 3 have moorings and anchorages for about 700 boats. The Lodge also has a busy wine bar featuring the sought-after Pedroncelli brand and other California style wines. Check out www.visittwoharbors.com.
Yes, Catalina Island does have its own vineyard. In what’s known as El Rancho Escondido, not far from Two Harbors, the first vines were planted in 2007 by Geoff and Allison Rusack. Three varietals were harvested in 2009: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Zinfandel. Allison is from the Wrigley family and both established themselves as wine makers back in 1995 in the Santa Ynez Valley north of Santa Barbara. Rusack Wines are small-batch, handcrafted wines of premium quality.
They have a tasting room in Solvang, where you can try the wines from Catalina Island. See more at www.rusackvineyards.com.
The New Gallo: Not your Father’s Wine
Ernest and Julio Gallo, the brothers from Modesto that helped changed the wine world, have passed on. Their Gallo Family successors have vowed to bring the brand into the next decade of the 21st century focused on the young hip community with their Bear Flag Brand.
I spoke of this inflection point with Shannon Soria Palmer at the recent La Jolla Art and Wine Festival. The labels are all from a magical world of strange creatures; whatever they think will float your collective boat. Bear Flag, which is a take-off on California’s state flag, pushes a “super secret formula” that is really a potpourri-blend of grapes.
For instance, the Bright White Blend is Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Gewurztraminer. The Dark Red Blend is a combo of Petite Sirah, Alicante Bouschet, Zinfandel, Petit Verdot and Tempranillo.
Woo Woo! Look for the graffiti style bottles in most supermarkets. Look for more at www.bearflagwine.com.
Wine Bytes
§ Meritage Wine Market in Encinitas hosts a Back to Napa Tasting Event Fri Nov. 5, 6 to 8pm. $20. pp. Check with Meritage for names, at 760-479-2500.
§ Bacchus Wine Market in the Gaslamp, downtown San Diego has a High End Cabernet event Fri. Nov. 5 from 4 to 8:30pm. Names being poured include Raymond, Rutherford and Bordeaux French wines. $35. ea. 619-236-0005.
§ Wine Loft in Carlsbad has a $10. Tues. on Nov. 9 with the wines of BR Cohn, 5 to 7pm. They’ll also offer oils, dipping sauces and tapenades. More at 760-944-1412.
§ PAON Restaurant downtown Carlsbad presents a two hour tasting and seminar on fortified and sparkling wines, Tues. Nov. 9 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Includes how to taste and compare and evaluation. RSVP at 760-729-7377.
§ Dolce Pane E Vino in Rancho Santa Fe brings in Krupp Brothers and Stagecoach Wines Wed. Nov. 10 from 5 to 8pm. Cost of $25. includes paired appetizers. RSVP at 858-832-1518.
The Catalina Express speed boat from San Pedro to Two Harbors, Catalina Island, drew up to the dock. I gazed around at the surroundings on this first-time visit for the next few days and couldn’t help think I was in a virtually undiscovered paradise, just 12 miles from Avalon, the bustling, tourist-driven Catalina hot spot which is like many of the beach communities of Southern California.
I was there with Sonoma based Winery Pedroncelli and their Southern California manager Mark Abraham to present a signature magnum to Banning House Lodge Bed and Breakfast, in celebration of their 100th anniversary.
Kate Panzer is the Innkeeper and couldn’t be happier. “It’s an ideal, timeless place to work and live, with guests who become friends and return year after year,” she said with a big smile. “Here, buffalo really do roam, brought here years ago for western movies (we met 3 of them on the road). Many were transported to South Dakota, but 100 still live close by.”
I learned that the chewing gum magnates, the Wrigley Family, purchased the property and the island in 1918 and family companies still operate the various enterprises that attract boaters and tourists.
Banner House has stunning views of Catalina Harbor on the mainland side, and Isthmus Cove and 4th of July Cove on the Pacific Ocean side. The 3 have moorings and anchorages for about 700 boats. The Lodge also has a busy wine bar featuring the sought-after Pedroncelli brand and other California style wines. Check out www.visittwoharbors.com.
Yes, Catalina Island does have its own vineyard. In what’s known as El Rancho Escondido, not far from Two Harbors, the first vines were planted in 2007 by Geoff and Allison Rusack. Three varietals were harvested in 2009: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Zinfandel. Allison is from the Wrigley family and both established themselves as wine makers back in 1995 in the Santa Ynez Valley north of Santa Barbara. Rusack Wines are small-batch, handcrafted wines of premium quality.
They have a tasting room in Solvang, where you can try the wines from Catalina Island. See more at www.rusackvineyards.com.
The New Gallo: Not your Father’s Wine
Ernest and Julio Gallo, the brothers from Modesto that helped changed the wine world, have passed on. Their Gallo Family successors have vowed to bring the brand into the next decade of the 21st century focused on the young hip community with their Bear Flag Brand.
I spoke of this inflection point with Shannon Soria Palmer at the recent La Jolla Art and Wine Festival. The labels are all from a magical world of strange creatures; whatever they think will float your collective boat. Bear Flag, which is a take-off on California’s state flag, pushes a “super secret formula” that is really a potpourri-blend of grapes.
For instance, the Bright White Blend is Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Gewurztraminer. The Dark Red Blend is a combo of Petite Sirah, Alicante Bouschet, Zinfandel, Petit Verdot and Tempranillo.
Woo Woo! Look for the graffiti style bottles in most supermarkets. Look for more at www.bearflagwine.com.
Wine Bytes
§ Meritage Wine Market in Encinitas hosts a Back to Napa Tasting Event Fri Nov. 5, 6 to 8pm. $20. pp. Check with Meritage for names, at 760-479-2500.
§ Bacchus Wine Market in the Gaslamp, downtown San Diego has a High End Cabernet event Fri. Nov. 5 from 4 to 8:30pm. Names being poured include Raymond, Rutherford and Bordeaux French wines. $35. ea. 619-236-0005.
§ Wine Loft in Carlsbad has a $10. Tues. on Nov. 9 with the wines of BR Cohn, 5 to 7pm. They’ll also offer oils, dipping sauces and tapenades. More at 760-944-1412.
§ PAON Restaurant downtown Carlsbad presents a two hour tasting and seminar on fortified and sparkling wines, Tues. Nov. 9 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Includes how to taste and compare and evaluation. RSVP at 760-729-7377.
§ Dolce Pane E Vino in Rancho Santa Fe brings in Krupp Brothers and Stagecoach Wines Wed. Nov. 10 from 5 to 8pm. Cost of $25. includes paired appetizers. RSVP at 858-832-1518.
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