More on Temecula Valley Wines…

by Frank Mangio
Awards keep coming in for the wines of Temecula Wine Country. Examples:

 Double Gold and Chairman’s Award at the ’09 Riverside Wine competition for Maurice Car’rie’s 2008 Sara Bella Blush, a white Cabernet Sauvignon. The winery also got Silver for their ’08 Chenin Blanc and ’08 Riesling. See more at www.mauricecarriewinery.com.

 La Cereza picked up eight medals at the same competition, including a gold for its “Girlfriends” white blend. Visit www.lacerezawinery.com

 Best of Class at the West Coast Wine Competition in Santa Rosa went to Keyways Winery for its ’08 Chenin Blanc and the ’08 White Blend Santa Teresa. More at www.keywayswine.com.

 I was privileged to get an initial release taste of the new Wilson Creek ’07 Viognier, a varietal favorite of mine. It is right up there with the best of the best for this Rhone Valley grape varietal. Brilliantly crafted by winemaker Etienne Cowper, this tropically fruited, exotic wine should not be missed by fans of a summer wine that pops. Bursting with flavor. Check it out at www.wilsoncreekwinery.com.

 Two Best of Class emerged from the Monterey and Pacific Rim competition….Briar Rose with its ’04 Cabernet Sauvignon and South Coast Winery with its ’07 Riesling.


Wine Bytes
 Four San Diego wineries have banded together for a “Passport to a Taste of San Diego.” For just $20. you can visit Hacienda de las Rosas, Orfila, Belle Marie and Bernardo Winery, each with a full wine tasting experience. Go to any of the wineries to purchase. Use until Labor Day in Sept.

 Meritage Wine Market in Encinitas has a Rhone Valley wine tasting Fri. May 29 and a Stars of Spain tasting on Fri. June 5. 6 to 8pm. Call 760-479-2500 for cost and wines.

 The Rotary Club presents the annual Encinitas Wine Festival, Sat. June 6 from 5 to 8pm, at Quail Botanical Gardens. Sample fine wines and beverages from around the world plus dishes and desserts from the finest restaurants in Encinitas. The event benefits local charities. Three ticket options from $100. Look at www.encinitaswinefestival.com.

 Up in Napa, the Vintners Association of 350 members brings you Auction Napa Valley Thurs. June 4 to Sun. June 7. Lots of ways to have a unique and fun time with tastings, auctions and dinners. Look at www.napavintners.com, or call 707-968-4209.

 The Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival takes off Fri. June 5 to Sun June 7 at Lake Skinner in the Winchester area. Mass balloon ascension begins Sat. at 6am. 20 wineries in Temecula will be pouring. 2 day passes for $30. Call 951-676-6713.