Top Ten Wine Tastes 1st Half of 2016

by Frank Mangio

Welcome to the hardest test of my experience as a wine taster and commentator of wine: to select the top ten tastes from many hundreds of bottles of mostly excellent wines that are newly released this year. But somebody’s got to do it so here goes.  Four of the ten came from the center of the wine universe, Napa Valley , 2 from Sonoma , 1 from Italy , 1 from France , 1 from Temecula and 1 from the Sta. Rita Hills north of Santa Barbara. The 10 are treated equally as top tier wines with sensational bouquet, flavor, structure and value.  The list is alphabetical and does not indicate rank.

Banfi Rosso di Montalcino, Tuscany, 2011. $22.  Could be the best value in the roster.  Brunello-like flavor at a way lower price, from the winery that sets the standard in Italy .  Castellobanfi.com.

Frank Family Pinot Noir, Napa Valley , 2013. $29. Beautiful aroma and flavor with lasting results.  Grapes come from the Pinot-perfect Carneros District of Napa Valley .  Frankfamilyvineyards.com.

Gerard Bertrand Chateau La Clape Rhone Valley France . 2013.  $17. The southern Rhone is a rich mix of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre with a Mediterranean influence. Focus is on quality here.

Wine.com.

Grgich Hills Zinfandel Napa Valley, 2013.  $36.  Mike Grgich celebrated his 93rd birthday on April 1st. His 30 acre Calistoga personal estate has only Zinfandel on it. Fresh flavors of blackberry.  Grgich.com.

Pedroncelli Wisdom Dry Creek Sonoma, 2012, $36.  Premium wine with 90% Cabernet, 10% Malbec. 16 months in French Oak. Tribute wine to the late John Pedroncelli. Pedroncelli.com.

Prodigal Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills CA., 2013, $29. Kudos to COSTCO for discovering this boutique winery only planted to Pinot.  Classic velvet , smooth  coating on the palate.  prodigalwines.com.

Robert Renzoni Sonata Temecula Valley, 2013. $42. A California peer to classic Italian Super Tuscans.  50% Cabernet and 50% estate Brunello di Sangiovese. Aged 20 months.     robertrenzonivineyards.com.

Roth Chardonnay Alexander Valley Sonoma,  2012. $12.  This is the Sonoma coast at its best and at that  price, back up the truck and tuck them away for years  of tasting. Rothwinery.com.

Whitehall Lane Tre Leoni Napa Valley, 2012. $25.  A true-to-form blend with big and bold mouthfeel.  Rich, round and delicious.  Whitehalllane.com.

ZD Reserve Chardonnay Napa Valley , 2013. $46.  From the world class ZD Carneros Estate. 15 months aging for a finer wine. ZDwines.com.

Wine Bytes

Twenty/20  Restaurant  in the Sheraton Carlsbad has its BBQ Summer Series Wednesday nights to August 3rd from 6:30 to 7:30 with star chef Julian  Quinones and special guests.  His secret tips are revealed, with tastes for all. $40. per class.  Call  for an RSVP at 760-827-2500.

Falkner Winery in Temecula is planning an exciting Anniversary and holiday series of parties July 2nd, 3rd and 4th, celebrating 16 years of superior wines.  Includes a free concert on Sat. from Noon to 3pm with 60’s and 70’s music.  Special menu items from the acclaimed Pinnacle Restaurant. The full story at Falknerwinery.com, or call 951-676-8231 x4.

Wilson Creek Winery & Vineyards in Temecula presents “Wild Child” an amazing concert recreation of the Doors, one of the greatest of the 60’s bands, Fri. July 8th 7 to 10pm.  Admission $35. RSVP and tickets at wilsoncreekwinery.com.

The New Way to Enjoy Jazz, Brunch and your Favorite Beverage

Tuscany is an Italian Restaurant in a sweet spot in Carlsbad ’s La Costa, at a busy shopping center at El Camino Real and Alga Rd. Since its beginnings in the early 90’s, its always had fine food, and a busy bar with an occasional piano player.

A Live Jazz Brunch on Sundays at Tuscany is drawing music lovers  and diners.  The Tuscany House Band features left to right:  Rick Ross, Althea Elaine Smith and Danny Dicarlo.

 A change of ownership was made recently when a Los Angeles musician with a dream of showcasing award winning entertainment, with fine wine and food, took the musical wraps off Tuscany. Danny DiCarlo, a musician himself, has been putting the final touches on a musical program at Tuscany that’ s been long overdue in North San Diego County .  It starts at the piano bar where nightly, your favorite easy listening live music is heard seven nights week.

The lounge area has been enlarged with lots of room for small bites and your favorite glass of wine  for a short stay. But if your like a lot of friends of mine, there’s lots of reasons to make Tuscany a place to stay longer and make a night of it with  some friends.  The occasional showroom events are becoming a key reason for Tuscany ’s success.  On a given date, you might see award winning comedy, opera, a full-house Jazz band or a favorite singer.

“This is a California inspired Italian restaurant ,” DiCarlo said, when asked about how he would describe Tuscany. “With our piano lounge, live entertainment showroom and Sunday morning Jazz, we have a wide selection of food, wine, cocktails and entertainment,  in a casual sophisticated setting.”

Getting back to the “New Way to Enjoy Jazz with Brunch and Beverages,” Tuscany’s Live Jazz Brunch, served from 10:30 to 2:30pm, is shaping up to be a Sunday go-to meeting place. The Smooth Jazz is intimate with diners and has an uptown sound.  The menu is versatile and Italian in flavor.  Diners can choose from ala carte traditional favorites, with the luxury of 7 brick- oven pizza choices.  “Now that’s Italian” describes a unique choice of several luscious omelettes  like the Tuscany Traditional and the Sicilian Three Cheese. I took the advice of my favorite Italian waiter, Pino Battalico, a legend among Italian food specialists.

 His advice…“you have to choose the Danny D’Omelette, named after our owner Danny DiCarlo, and I want you to have it with a Banfi Chianti Classico Reserve from Italy , vintage 2011.”  Ingredients include:  smoked ham, Italian sausage, salami, bacon, cheddar cheese, roasted tomatoes, wild arugula, spicy Srirachi Aioli and served with roasted potatoes.  All this with Jazz music to make it perfect!  Six other omelette selections await you at Tuscany . To learn more about this lovely Italian restaurant, be sure to search their web site at tuscanylacosta.com.  Tickets to the stage shows are also available at the site.  For dining reservations, call 760-929-8111.

 Wine Bytes
Twenty/20  restaurant in the Sheraton Carlsbad has a 4th of July American BBQ Buffet, 5pm to 9pm.  Live music , exclusive terrace seating for viewing fireworks.  Cost is $50. for adults, $25. for children. Under 3 gets in free.  Book now at 760-827-2500.

Falkner Winery in Temecula is celebrating their 15th Anniversary from Fri. July 3rd to Sun. July 5th. Free concerts Sat. and Sun. from Noon to 3pm, winery tours, huge discounts on wines, outdoor BBQs, lunch specials at the Pinnacle Restaurant.  Wine raffle drawing each hour, from 11am to 5pm.  Details by calling 951-676-8231 x1.

Wine of the Month: 2011 Rocca di Montemassi, Harvest in Napa Valley, Ingrid Croce's New Eatery

The 2011 Rocca di Montemassi: This beauty is what they call in Italy a “Super Tuscan,” a varietal that blends a number of grapes together, proving that, in this case, Italy can produce luscious French style wines.  This bottle brings together 50% Cabernet, 20% Merlot, 20% Syrah and 10% Petit Verdot.  One of the few Italian wines that reek of fresh fruit, along with Balsamic undertones.  The name of the wine, is the name of the winery.

About the winery: Located in the Meremma district of Tuscany, a coastal strip in the southwest. The highest temperatures in 10 years rolled in in August of 2011, with strong winds from North Africa .  This accelerated the ripeness requiring an early harvest. This winery is owned by the Zonin Family, Italy’s largest family owned wine company.

The cost: Cucina Enoteca of Del Mar has this wine in stock in their wine shop at $41.00. Call 858-704-4500.

It’s on with the Harvest in Napa Valley
August is barely here and already harvest whistles are blowing for one of the major varietals of wines in Napa Valley , the sparkling wines.  A collective sigh of relief was also being heard by winemakers as last winter was one of the driest on record.  “Thanks to a long, moderate Spring with some rains and recent heat-spikes, we’re looking forward to bringing in some beautiful fruit  and maybe even an above average yield,” said Ludovic Dervin, winemaker for Mumm Napa Valley .

The Napa Valley Vintners recently brought some of their prize wineries down from the valley to Rancho Santa Fe’s Rancho Valencia , 9 in all, with their latest releases, for a summer event.  It attracted wine consumers, interested in the up and coming names and what was being said about the 2014 harvest.

Sommelier Mitch Price and Food & Beverage Director  Justin Wilson of Rancho Valencia ,
taste a Cabernet from Larry Ryssdal, G.M. of Akerman Vineyards, Napa Valley.

Some names to know that I had the pleasure of tasting were:  B Cellars owner Duffy Keys, who lives in Rancho Santa Fe and Haitus Cellars with Mark Davidowski, who owned the Meritage Wine Cellar in Encinitas.  Others included:  Derenoncourt, Levendi, Malk, Peju, Pine Ridge, Stags Leap and Grandona. Justin Wilson, the Rancho Valencia Food & Beverage Director set up  lawn style reception and tasting areas, and offered displays of cheese, antipasti charcuterie, salads and signature sliders, among other delicious indulgences. Live music filled the courtyard.

Napa Valley now has nearly 500 wineries, but just 4% of the wine produced in California comes from Napa Valley .  This picturesque world-renowned wine area elevation goes from  sea level to 2,600 feet.  Nearly all are family owned, with 65% producing 5,000 cases annually or less. Only 45,000  acres ( 9% ) of Napa Valley is planted under vines, but supplies 1/3 of the value of all wine sold in the U.S. , about $13 Billion Dollars worth.

Napa Valley is most proud of its:  Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Zinfandel.  Remaining small is a constant challenge for the great winemakers who are passionate about quality.  Recently, the Winery of Napa Valley, in the Carneros District, was sold by the Michael Mondavi Family.  “We are seeking to establish a boutique winemaking facility and tasting room befitting our distinguished wines and labels ” he said.  They are hoping to downsize to small-lot prestige wines.  You can follow the harvest action  in the coming weeks on the Napa Valley web page:  www.napavintners.com/harvest.

The Legacy of Jim Croce Lives On
For those of us who are long-time San Diegans who loved the music of the 60’s and 70’s, Jim Croce and his wife Ingrid were a musical duo from Philly who in the 60’s traveled the country in search of fame and a name.

But it wasn’t until July 1973, when they re-located to San Diego that it all turned up for them with the hit record “Big Bad Leroy Brown.” After whirlwind tours in Europe, club dates and another smash LP “I Got A Name,” it all came crashing down with a plane crash on takeoff in Lousianna on September 20, 1973, a week after he recorded the LP.

Michael Simpson, Sommelier and Manager, and Russ Rummer Executive Chef of the new Croce’s Park West Restaurant & Bar on 5th Ave. in San Diego.

Ingrid and Jim had talked about a Restaurant bearing their name in the upcoming Gaslamp District of San Diego, and in 1985, Ingrid opened the restaurant and club Croce’s, which became the
standard-bearer for the hottest night time street scene west of New Orleans .

Now the next chapter begins in the Jim Croce legacy as Ingrid has moved her restaurant  to an attractive restaurant neighborhood on 5th Avenue near Balboa Park and named it Croce’s Park West.  Already, diners have felt the presence of a brilliant young Sommelier/Manager Michael Simpson who in a short time has caught the eye of Wine Spectator with their Award of Excellence to Croce’s.  He has brought in Chandon Winemakers Collection from Napa Valley for a dinner event, and is planning  a Chateau St Jean of Sonoma Five course dinner Tues. Aug. 26th.

Simpson strongly believes there are no set rules in wine pairing.  “The main rule is not to have one element overpower the other. Wine and food must be in balance.”  Learn more about Croce’s at www.crocesparkwest.com. Or call 619-233-4355.

Wine Bytes
PAON Restaurant and Wine Bar in Carlsbad has A Sunday of Rose’ Aug. 10th at 1:30pm.  Cost is $28. pp.  Most are from Provence France.  Includes Trio Amuse Bouche bites.  RSVP at 760-729-7377.

International winemaker Nick Goldschmidt will present a seminar and tasting at Vintana in Escondido , Thurs. Aug. 14 from 6 to 8pm.  He will take you through the tasting of 10 different wines.  Cost is $35.  Call 760-745-7777.

Harry’s Bar & American Grill on La Jolla Village Dr. in San Diego is pleased to bring in Brunello Montalcino Banfi wines for a five course Food & Wine Pairing, Wed. Aug. 20 from 6 to 9:30pm.  Call Garo for an RSVP and menu information.  Cost is $85. ea.  858-373-1252.


 Join other wine enthusiasts at Morada in the Rancho Santa Fe Inn  Thurs. Aug. 21 for a wine tasting from several wineries, 5 to 6:30pm.  Includes light appetizers.  $25. pp.  RSVP at 858-381-8212.

Colorado Wines - The Great Vintages of Rocky Mountain High

by Frank Mangio
In January, Colorado became the first state in the U.S. to allow retail recreational marijuana sales to adults 21 and older.  37 dispensaries  opened for business and business has been booming.  But hold on.  Since 2005, the Colorado wine industry has more than tripled to more than 144 million, with local vineyards doing very well. The state’s consumers drink 3.1 gallons per capita annually, 24% more than the U.S. average. Colorado has about 108 wineries, small by California numbers (Napa Valley has over 400 alone), and most of those are boutique style with less than 25 acres under vine. Most wineries offer unlimited free tasting.

Jean and Walt Stringer are long-time wine aficionados and former next door neighbors of mine. They left for Denver when his career as major light rail projects manager took him from Carlsbad, CA.

Wine lovers Walt and Jean Stringer being poured a 2013

Whitewater Hill Vineyards Dry Riesling by owner Nancy Janes.

At their urging, I spent eight days, first in Denver , then Grand Junction. Both areas are a mile high in elevation with wines that accent this natural challenge with stunning scenery at every turn, that quickly vaults up to 10,000 feet just a few miles from Grand Junction and the Palisade districts.

After a meandering Amtrak train that took 10 hours to get from Denver to Grand Junction , about 245 miles, we were ready to knock on doors and try some high altitude wine.  The AVA District is Grande Valley with 21 wineries, and eye-popping views of the Colorado National Monument .
First stop was more a farmhouse winery, purchased in 1999 by former tech executives Nancy Janes and John Behrs.  Janes makes the wine on 24 acres.  She likes to say…”handgrown, handpicked, and handcrafted.”  Among the 17 different wines made, the standout was the 2012 Shiraz ($15.) that Janes collected a Gold Medal for, at last year’s international show at Finger Lakes New York.  It showed rich notes of plum, currant and black pepper. Another winner was the cold-weather resistant Dry Riesling ($13.) with accents of jasmine, apricot and apple.  A surprise was the alcohol content of 13.9%.  Riesling normally comes in at 9%. Find out more at www.whitewaterhill.com.

The 5th winery to open its doors in Colorado is the distinguished Grande River Vineyards.  Steve and Naomi Smith planted their first grapes in 1987, right by the grand Colorado River . Until 2006, this vineyard was the #1 grape grower in the state.  A decision was made to sell off most of the  50 acres and concentrate on making great wine with the remaining 10 acres and quality varietals elsewhere in the district.

Steve and Naomi Smith built Grand River Vineyards into the largest in Colorado .

My top choice was the 2011 Viognier.($17.99)  In my Top Ten Tastes for the first half of 2014,
I thought this one could compete with any Viognier in California. I said, “their Viognier was art in a bottle, with its characteristic pear and apricot aromas and flavors.”

A close 2nd was the 2011 Syrah ($17.99) with its mocha, cherry, blackberry and spice.  Both of these varietals are robust wines, resistant to the cold blasts of winter, common in Colorado even in late spring. For more, visit www.granderiverwines.com.

On September 18 to 20, the Colorado Mountain Winefest will happen in the Palisade area  with 45 wineries participating in what will be the biggest winefest in Colorado this year.  Check out the details at www.palisadetourism.com.

Any discussion of Colorado wine would not be complete without a mention of the International Wine Guild based in Denver, training and educating more than 3,000 graduates from all 50 states and 14 countries.  It’s recognized as one of the top 5 wine schools by Food and Wine Magazine and a top wine school by the Wall Street Journal.
Take a look at www.internationalwineguild.com.

Wine Bytes
Il Fornaio in Del Mar and Coronado presents the next Festa Regionale now through July 20th with food and wine from Veneto .  Enjoy a three course Tasting Menu for 31.99.  RSVP 1-888-ITALIAN.

The Barrel Room in Rancho Bernardo has a Duckhorn Vineyard Napa Valley Tasting, Sun. July 13 at 2pm. $45. per guest. Five wines plus small bites. 858-673-7512.

Meritage Wine Market in Encinitas now has Thurs. night wine flights once a month from 5 to 8pm. Next one will be July 17.

JOB AVAILABLE: Are you good at social media, and love the word of flowers and floral arrangements? Carma White at Four Seasons Flowers has a position available for a part-time person to manage her FB, Twitter, Pineterest, and help with customer service in the shop (Rancho Penasquitos)  (858) 484-7700

Would you like to sponsor this blog? Taste of Wine is the "go-to" weekly source for wine lovers and beginners, looking for great choices in wine and wine-related events. Contact Mike Bragg at mbwords@yahoo.com for more details on this great opportunity to be seen by wine lovers and lovers of the "good life".

Temecula Becoming Wine & Music Center

by Frank Mangio

This year is shaping up to be a landmark one for Temecula Wine Country in its quest to not only be a recognized destination for excellent wines, but for big time music venues.  Concerts on the green have been stepped up, as well as happy hour entertainment and clubby small groups on the weekends and in the afterhours.

The granddaddy of the music movement has to be Thornton Winery’s Champagne Jazz Concerts, now in its 25th year of the top smooth jazz entertainment on the planet, through October 20th.  John, Sally and Steve Thornton have set the standard when they recently brought four sax greats in for a two day show that was a complete sell-out both nights. Now seating 800, the audience can order a table-side supper with lots of Thornton wine choices.

Frank Mangio with sax queen Mindi Abair at Thornton Winery in Temecula.

The beat continues at Thornton when crooner Bobby Caldwell performs on Sat. Aug. 3 at 7pm.  Tickets start at $65. for general admission.  For ticket and other concert information, contact is www.thorntonwine.com.

Thornton has released a 2011 Nebbiolo, the famous Italian style varietal, found in  Barolo and Barbaresco wines in Italys’ Piedmont district for far higher prices. Winery price is $46.

Over at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, a festival of Country music wowed the crowds recently.  It turned out to be a celebration as news came that South Coast was named the California Winery of the Year at this year’s California State Fair, the 3rd time it has taken the award! Owners Jim and Dawn Carter accepted the award on the capital steps in Sacramento.  The winery is also commemorating its 10 year Anniversary with a limited release Cuvee wine from winemaster Jon McPherson ($30.)
Call the online store at 951-587-9463 x7234.

Monte De Oro Winery is bringing in their biggest act in rock-pop star Macy Gray, in concert Saturday September 7.  Prices start at $48.95. See more at www.montedeoro.com.

Wiens Family Cellars has been giving us some great oldies music for some time now and the winery is about to open the curtain on the English band that in the late 70’s was a hot as can be.  The Fixx lit up the charts with “One Thing Leads To Another” and they will be performing Sat. July  20.  Doors open at 6pm with pricing starting at $45.  Friday August 23, Wiens has Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.  Ticket information at 800-316-8559.

On the De Portola Trail, some eight or so wineries are constantly improving, none more so than Leoness Cellars.  Their entertainment and hospitality is handled by Joel Reese, himself a seasoned musician. This year, he brings in a group of Jazz greats in the maiden year for big-time shows at Leoness.  The last of the concerts will be a solo performance by Ronnie Laws, a saxman who was an original member of Earth Wind and Fire, on Sat. July 20 at 7pm.

Prices start at $49. For ticket information, call 951-302-7601 x150.

Joel Reese of Leoness pours a Syrah for TASTE OF WINE columnist Frank Mangio at a recent Temecula CRUSH event.

For the weekend night life, try Miramonte Winery with live blues and rock music from 7 to 10pm.  Cane Vanderhoof has upscaled his winery into a winery/nightclub with huge success. Try Missy Anderson, Queen of the Blues on Sat. July 20.  Details at 951-506-5500.

Finally, to get a look and a taste of all the 35 member wineries of Temecula in one location, get a “CRUSH” on Saturday September 14th at Callaway Winery, from 6:30 to 9:30pm.  Join the winery owners and winemakers at this 4th annual CRUSH event on the outdoor patio.  Enjoy culinary creations of the wineries and nearby restaurants of Temecula.  Pre-sale discount tickets for $65. on sale now through August 16. Go to www.temeculawines.org.

Wine Bytes
The Taste of Rancho Santa Fe is Sat. July 20 from 4:30 to 7:40pm at the RSF Golf Club. It’s produced by the RSF Rotary as a benefit for several non-profits.  This is a fine wine-fine tasting experience including over 100 tastings, many from Napa Valley.  Cost is $75. pp.  Call 858-449-5173 for tix info.

San Diego Wine Company ‘s weekly tasting Sat. July 20 is Washington State Wines.  Times are 11 to 4pm.  Cost is $10.  Details at 858-586-WINE.

Meritage Wine Market in Encinitas presents a Napa Valley Cakebread Cellars Seminar Thurs. July 25.  $20. ea.  Check with Meritage for time:  760-479-2500.

San Diego State University announces an Open House for its Business of Wine Opportunities classes, Thurs. July 25 from 6 to 7:30pm, in the Extended Studies Gateway Centers.  Call 619-594-1138 for an RSVP, directions and a parking permit. Learn about fall courses in the wine industry.

Top Ten Tastings 1st half of 2012

by Frank Mangio
The first half of 2012 had a sense of positive change for the comeback of premium wines (those wines over $20.)  The famous (or infamous, depending on your outlook) “Two Buck Chuck”  is finally down in sales after 10 years, partly due to the fact that grape production in the Napa Valley and other premium wine countries in California is down, leaving less grapes to sell at steep discounts. Demand is pushing up prices.  Red grapes especially saw an average of $12. a ton more in 2011 than the year before, across the varietal board.

The French are still the biggest consumers of wine, followed by Italy.  The U.S. is #3 in consumption.  China has moved up to #6. Direct sales from the winery through the internet is the fastest growing way to sell wine, with Cabernet Sauvignon the most popular followed by Pinot Noir.

It was a great first half for TASTE OF WINE.  I attended many international wine trade shows as wines from Italy, Spain and France brought their biggest name wines to the West Coast.  I was named a judge at the first commercial wine competition at the County Fair, a big plus for San Diego based vineyards.

My 10 choices are priced at the best prices I could find.  Napa Valley boasts six choices, with California showing a total of nine wines.  The only overseas selection is Argentina.  All ten are equally treated on an excellence scale from 1 to 5, considering flavor, body and value.  The list is alphabetical  and does NOT indicate any ranking.

Ft. Ross Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast Ca.  2008.  $19. This winning Pinot Noir has roots high on a ridge overlooking the Pacific.  Night time fog and plenty of daytime sun makes it special.  www.fortrossvineyard.com.

Frank Family Pinot Noir, Napa Valley CA.  2010.  $30.  Another Pinot for the ages.  Cherry and cinnamon are the dominant flavors.  Fine tannins are the ticket to an elegant structure. Frank also makes a dashing Zinfandel ( $30.) and a royal Cabernet Sauvignon ($40.) www.frankfamilyvineyards.

Hall Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley CA.  2008.  $90.  This wine was #2 in all the world in the Wine Spectator Top 100.  8% Merlot added to smooth out the tannins. Depth and power. www.hallwines.com.

Hess Collection 19 Block Cuvee, Napa Valley CA.  2007. $36.  A 5 varietal blend, Cab based.  A core of 19 blocks of grapes from Hess’s highest altitude vineyard, Veeder Summit.  Aromas of plum and currant.  www.hesscollection.com.

Lewis Cellars Cabernet Reserve, Napa Valley CA.  2009.  $130.  Opulent spices from a small collection of vineyards in Oak Knoll and Calistoga.  Small dose of Petit Verdot for sensitive sweetness.  www.lewiscellars.com.

Norton Reserve Malbec, Mendoza Argentina.  2008.  $13.  Big stallion style reds, Malbecs are giving Cabs a run for it.  Norton is the premium horse in the group.  www.norton.com

Pedroncelli friends.red, Sonoma, CA.  2010.  $11.  The Italian tradition of friends and wine are wrapped up in this blend of Merlot, Zinfandel, Syrah and Sangiovese.  www.pedroncelli.com.

Sean Minor Pinot Noir, Napa Valley, CA.  2010.  $16.  A beautiful value Pinot with grapes from the Carneros District.  Expect a bowl of strawberries, cherries and raspberries with velvety tannins.  Try it with salmon, or chicken.  www.seanminorwines.com.

Thornton Winery Mourvedre, Temecula CA. 2010.  $15.20.  One of the great reds from the Rhone Valley of France.  Has an earthy quality of its European origin.  A “drink now” red.
www.thorntonwine.com.

VSattui Winery Chardonnay, Napa Valley, CA.  2010.  $30.  Grown in the Carneros District.  Barrel fermented and aged in barrel for 10 months, Toasty aromas and flavors from a stirring process.  Slight peppery accent. www.vsattui.com.

Wine Bytes
The new Hilton Carlsbad Oceanfront Resort and Spa has just opened with the state of the art Chandler’s Restaurant, with local celebrity chef Pasqual Vignau as Executive Chef. Call 760-602-0800. Panoramic views and a private wine room are featured.

Il Fornaio in Del Mar and Coronado has Sicily as its Festa Regionale theme, July 2 through July 15. Enjoy a three course tasting menu for $29.99 and a Sicilian wine flight for $13.99.  RSVP at 888-ITALIAN.

World Wine Market and Competition is the name of a major wine seminar at SDSU Mon. July 9 from 6 to 9pm.  Credits go to the Business of Wine Program.  Call 619-265-7378 for details.

Twisted Vine Bistro and Wine Bar in Carmel Valley has a July 7 and a July 21 cooking class with Chef Mia called “Capture Napa Valley.”  Two glasses of wine included.  Call 858-780-2501 for times and pricing.

Thornton Unveils Champagne Jazz with an Energized Mindi Abair

by Frank Mangio
If I likened the kickoff Mindi Abair  Concert at the beautiful outdoor Thornton Winery  in Temecula to wine, my quote would be:  “I came expecting Merlot and got Zinfandel!”  Mindi, ever seductive charmer with her cooing smooth jazz and tenor sax notes, this time came with two legendary rockers from the 80’s, Jeff Golub who played for Rod Stewart, and David Pack, the lead singer for the hit makers Ambrosia. This was a brilliant, exciting musical stroke of genius

 Mindi jumped into music by Jimmy Hendrix, the Rolling Stones and James Brown.  What a big moment for the 24th season of Champagne Jazz at Thornton Winery.  It will be hard to top it, but with the lineup coming in, they’ll match it.  Some recommendations:  Chris Botti June 3, Bobby Caldwell and David Benoit June 24, Brian Culbertson and David Sanborn July 15, Dave Koz and Candy Duffer August 18 & 19 and Peter White Sept. 16.

Mindi Abair opened the Thornton Winery 24th Annual  Champagne Jazz Concerts in Temecula.

The series goes to Oct. 21. Mindi was gracious enough to sip some beautifully crafted Thornton Brut Rose’at a pre concert press gathering, signed autographs and stayed for photos.  She bubbled over as much as the wine and saluted the Thornton Family on the best orchestrated concert series on the circuit.

At Thornton, the audience is offered the “culinary fusion” 3 course gourmet dinner created by Thornton’s restaurant Café Champagne under the direction of Executive Chef Steve Pickell.

Wines recommended with the dinner included:  Thornton 2010 Viognier, Thornton 2010 Mourvedre and Thornton 2010 Zinfandel, under the direction of winemaker David Vergari. He was in a celebratory mood this night as we found out that the Thornton 2010 Tempranillo ($25.) and  2010 Estate Petite Sirah ($22.) had won Gold at the important Monterey Wine Competition.  It was a dazzling night for the audience and for Thornton Winery.  For details on the concerts and levels of tickets available call 951-699-3021 or visit www.thorntonwine.com.

New Wine Releases-Try Them!
The tempo of new releases has stepped up exponentially as wine events have picked up the last few months, giving brands an opportunity to unveil their latest.  Here are 5 worth trying:

Banfi Centine Rosso Toscana Montalcino Italy, 2009.  $10.  A marriage of Sangiovese and Cab/Merlot grapes offering intensity and spice for such a young Italian red.  Best value on anyone’s list.
Ferrari Carano Fume Blanc, Sonoma, CA 2011. $15.  A fresh vibrant white blended wine with a rich mouth-feel.  Subtle oak character.

Orin Swift The Prisoner Red Blend, Napa Valley, CA.  2010.  $38.  A Zin-based ripe red spice box.  Added varietals include Cabernet, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Charbono and Grenache.

Sausal Century Vines Zinfandel, Sonoma, Ca.  2009.  $40.  Big, powerful, yet smooth on the palate. Well Balanced notes.

Trentadue La Storia Zinfandel, Sonoma, CA.  2010.  $30.  Bright, intense fruit with a touch of Petite Sirah for cherry, blueberry.  Fine oak barrel age for brown sugar, vanilla accent.


Wine Bytes
Meritage Wine Market is presenting an Italian Wine & Food event Sat. May 12 from 5 to 7pm, for $50. pp.  North, South, East and West are all represented with premium cuisine and wines.  Call 760-479-2500.

Mothers Day dinners in Temecula on Sun. May 13 include: Wilson Creek with a Brunch from 10am to 4pm with piano music, $49.95 ea. Call 951-699-9463; Monte De Oro Brunch includes a free bottle of wine and sweet gift.  Two seatings 10am and Noon.  Go to www.montedeoro.com; Café Champagne at Thornton Winery buffet with live music from 12 to 5pm, includes a glass of Brut Champagne for $49.95.

Enjoy Mothers Day menu items at Firenze Trattoria in Encinitas.  Seatings starting at 1pm.  Long stem rose for Mom plus live Jazz starting at 5:30pm.  RSVP at 760-944-9000.

3rd Corner in Encinitas has a Mothers Day Prix Fixe Menu with three wines for $25.  RSVP at 760-942-2104.

Castello Banfi will be the star wine at a dinner at Vigilucci’s at the Carlsbad Beach location Fri. May 18 starting at 6:30pm.  A special menu will be prepared.  $80. pp.  Call 760-434-2580 for reservations and the menu.

Toast the Coast at Vigilucci’s Restaurants

by Frank Mangio

From Carlsbad in the north to Coronado in the south, San Diego County Coastal wine aficionados and diners have their choice of 7 prime Vigilucci’s locations to enjoy the beach scene.

Between these locations, founder Roberto Vigilucci has a second restaurant in Carlsbad, two in Leucadia, and one in Encinitas and La Jolla. All have excellent wine lists, lots of Italian menu items and select locations have savory beef and seafood highlights. Catering is a growing part of his business with many unforgettable parties created by Vigilucci’s team.

On the night we visited, the beachfront Vigilucci’s in Carlsbad was selected on a beautiful, balmy night with a never-ending sunset. I was greeted by manager Julian Oesterlein and server Francisca Simon who introduced me to a husky and luscious Italian Tuscan Brunello wine from Col D’ Orcia. It was a special cellar 1997 selection, available to any diner. Vigilucci is passionate about food and wine. He has often told me he personally tastes the sauces in each of his restaurants and selects onlythe finest price to value wines, with emphasis on Italian varietals.

Roberto Vigilucci shows one of his Italian selections in the

wine cellar at the La Jolla Vigilucci’s.

My selected entree to pair up with this rich, red wine was the nightly special; a Rossotto del Giorno with grilled swordfish and asparagus. The pasta selection was Gnocchi al Tartufo (potato dumplings in a creamy truffle sauce au gratin.)

All pastas are made daily at Vigilucci’s.

This location is open for lunch at 11am. Happy Hour is in the lounge Monday though Friday from 3 to 6pm and Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 5pm. During July and August, dinner is served to 11pm Friday and Saturday nights, with Sunday brunch 10 to 3pm.

Saturday July 16 starting at 8am on the beach at Del Mar, the Vigilucci’s sponsored 31st annual Beach Bocce Ball World Championship Games are presented to raise funds for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Carlsbad. Roberto has also been honored by the Sons of Italy as the 2010 Italian American of the Year in San Diego County. Take a Vigilucci’s internet tour and “Toast the Coast” to the music of Frank Sinatra at www.vigiluccis.com. It’s classic Italian!

Mark Russo: his Roots Go Back to Julia Childs & Robert Mondavi

Mark Russo… now there’s a guy that was born and nursed with an Italian red.

After a blazing career in culinary arts including owning a prestigious restaurant in Newport Beach and winning numerous wine and food awards, Mark’s fortunes accelerated when he met the legendary chef/author Julia Childs and with world renowned Napa wine maker Robert Mondavi, collaborated with both to start the American Institute of Wine & Food.

His current labor of love is the Black Bottle Winery, already a medal-winning “cult” wine of small production and powerful devotees.

Typical of Mark’s “outside the box” thinking, a good portion of the bottle is coated with the actual earth that makes this vintage 2007 Cabernet, a benchmark year with grapes that

Entrepreneur and winery owner Mark Rizzo displays his award winning 2007 Black Bottle Cabernet at a recent lunch at Bentley’s in Encinitas.

A touch of Merlot and Syrah makes it that much more lush and rich. The sad news is the 2007 is sold out. The good news is the 2008 is just about ready after 2 years in French oak and Mark is taking orders on his web site at www.blackbottlewinery.com.

He also has founded Angel’s Share International, a company focused on food, wine, spirits and luxury lifestyle. His are highly prized events and programs for those who can afford to have the very best. See more at www.AngelsShare.com.

Wine Bytes

TGI Wine Country Friday at South Coast Winery Resort and Spa is Fri. July 15 at 7:30pm. Two bands will be playing country rock. $10. pp. RSVP at 951-587-9463 x 7210.

WineSellar & Brasserie is having a “Pinot-Palooza” with 40+ Pinot Noirs at warehouse prices, Sat. July 16 from 11 to 3pm. Cheese and bread available. From more, call 858-450-9557.

San Diego Wine Company on Miramar Rd. is tasting a French Extravaganza of great wines on Bastille Day, Sat. July 16 from 11 to 4:30pm. $10. fee. Details at 858-586-WINE.

The Summer Pre-Release Party is at Belle Marie Winery in Escondido, Sat. July 16 from 2 to 4pm. Cost is $7. pp, free to Vintage Club members. It’s a sneak preview of the newest wines. Call 760-796-7557.

“Summer of Riesling 2011” is being celebrated at the lounge, Club M and the restaurants of the Grand Del Mar Resort. Several of Germany’s most famous Rieslings have been hand-picked by Wine Director Jesse Rodriguez at highly reasonable glass-prices. Information at www.summerofriesling.com.

The Encinitas YMCA and Rancho Coastal Humane Society is planning an annual benefit Casino Night Sept. 17 and is looking for gift baskets and sponsors. This is a great opportunity for a winery or wine shop to build loyal customers with a wine donation for silent auction or raffle drawing, and sponsorship. Contact me at mangiompc@aol.com.

Top Ten Wine Tastings – 1st Half of 2011

The first half of this year brought to us more wine events than ever, with emphasis on trade and wine country associations banding together promoting their respective regional interests. I counted over 400 that crossed my radar with over 3,500 wines tasted.

On the retail side, a couple of trends developed on my Southern California beat: restaurants and resorts are adding a retail “buy it here, drink it here or take it home” component to their operation causing stress to locally owned wineshops; and county government is actually cooperating with winery associations to promote wine tasting in new or existing AVA’s.

Evidence the opening of some 10 public wine tasting rooms where there were nearly none allowed earlier, in the Ramona Valley of San Diego County.

The following are standout wines that I have tasted and awarded an “excellent” rating, based on flavor, complexity and price point-to-value. The Top Ten are NOT ranked but are listed alphabetically. Prices shown can vary and are what I have noted in web sites and at retail shops. Web sites are inserted for your further research.

§ Artesa Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2005. $15. A classic Cabernet from this Carneros District winery, with grapes from 3 vineyards in Atlas Peak and Oakville. www.artesawinery.com.

§ Chateau Tanunda Grand Barossa Shiraz, Australia, 2007. $18. A French style red with a touch of Cabernet and Grenache to add to the Shiraz body for an old world flavor medley. Australia’s Producer of the Year award winner. www.banfivintners.com.

§ Dr. Loosen Riesling Kabinett, Mosel Germany, 2009. $15. World renowned maker of racy, mineral-driven Riesling from the steep, slate slopes of the Mosel River. Crisp, slight sweetness on the palate. www.drloosen.com.

§ Fontodi Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Italy, 2006. $26. Pure 100% Sangiovese legacy grapes. 12 months aging in small French barriques. Great benchmark for all that is lovely in Tuscany. www.fontodi.com.

§ Marilyn Remarke Grenache, Monterey, Ca., 2008. $45. Meticulous re-creation of Rhone style Grenache. A revelation of old world south-of-France vibrancy. www.remarkewines.com.

§ Niner Twisted Spur, Paso Robles, CA., 2007. $25. Wine maker Amanda Cramer brought out the best of the vineyard in this all-estate blend of mostly Merlot, supported by Cab Franc, Syrah and Petite Sirah. www.ninerwine.com.

§ Pedroncelli Bushnell Vineyard Zinfandel, Sonoma, Ca.,2009. $20. Remarkable Dry Creek Valley Zin from prized 20 acre family related vineyard for over 50 years. Captures the essence of “California’s grape,” and takes it to a new level. www.Pedroncelli.com.

§ Solis Winery Merlot Reserve, Santa Clara Valley, CA. 2008. $40. Rich Italian family tradition from the 20’s has brought Solis L.A. International Gold, and acclaim to this velvet-lined, regal tasting wine. www.soliswinery.com.

§ Sokol Blosser Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills, Oregon, 2008. $39. World-class Pinot from the new world’s authentic footprint of Burgundy, France, the birthplace of Pinot Noir. Its certified organic farming was first in the U.S. www.sokolblosser.com.

§ South Coast Winery Sangiovese, Wild Horse Peak, Temecula, CA., 2006.$34. 100% old-world style Sangiovese in French barrels especially designed for this varietal. A sweeping pedigree of high praise for this best-of-class. A triumph for veteran wine maker Jon McPherson. www.wineresort.

Wine Bytes

Falkner Winery in Temecula celebrates its 11th Anniversary Sat. Ju.y 2 thru Mon. July 4. Free Jazz concerts Noon to 3pm on Sat. and Sun., hourly raffle drawings, outdoor BBQs, tours and deep discount sales on top selling wines. All activities are 11 to 5pm. Call 951-676-8231 for details.

Bacchus Wine Market, in the Gaslamp District of San Diego, is having a Sparkling Wines and BIG Zinfandel Tasting, Fri. July 1 from 4 to 8:30pm and Sat. July 2 from 2pm to 8:30pm. $15. pp. Six tastings promised. For more, call 619-236-0005.

Tesoro Winery Old Town Tasting Room in Temecula is presenting the Two Of Us Plus One concert on Fri. July 8 from 6 to 9pm. Contact phone is 951-308-0000.

TASTE OF WINE regretfully reports that one of the pioneers of the modern wine shop format in Carlsbad is closing its doors the end of June after some 6 years. Carlsbad Wine Merchants, led by Kathy Bankerd, was an honest, creative wine merchant, who fell victim to the bad economy. She will be missed. The shop has some big discounts on wine and accessories before closing. Call 760-804-9994.