by Frank Mangio
RELM is a Carlsbad Village focal point for inquiring minds that are thirsty for the latest in wine and beer, in a bistro setting. It has been re-invigorated after a short slump, by the smart and stylish General Manager David Andersson who came in after a successful run at Donovan’s Steak House in downtown La Jolla . It really got interesting when Andersson collaborated with Tamara Golden, a local expert on travel news and views, to come up with a “Meetup” series of events that incorporate wine, food, travel and culture, at least one per month. The setting is intimate and encourages understanding through narration, large wall photos, and lots of wine comparisons, old world vs new world. France’s Rhone Valley , Provence and the “Cote d’ Azur” were highlighted in a 2 hour meetup of some 24 interested guests.
French wines, it seems, are often compared with their American counterparts, going back to the “Paris Tasting” of 1976, when Napa Valley wines were compared with French wines for the first time in a “blind” setting, and the American wines defeated the French in the well-known Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon categories.
French grapes like Cabs, Chards and Merlots are the most produced in California , so there lies the undercurrent of constant competitiveness. While Andersson poured the wine and offered tasty French-style bites like “Chevre,” a Duck Liver Mousse with Cognac , Golden presented a vivid journey through the South of France with imagery and imagination. Her sources were her own experiences. She began in the North of the Rhone Valley at Lyon , France ’s 2nd largest city, then guided us to Hermitage, deep in Rhone wine country. Avignon was the final stop in the Rhone Valley with its Ponte De Avignon, a famous bridge in France .
Looking ahead to more Meetups, RELM and Tamara Golden will be presenting a Spain Wine Tasting and Travelogue Sat. May 28th from 4 to 6pm. They will offer a six-wine sampling from various Spanish districts and take a visual journey throughout Spain, the country of bullfighting, flamenco, tapas and Gaudi’. Cost is $35.
On Tues. June 14th from 7 to 9pm and again on Sat. June 18th from 4 to 6pm, they will present a South Africa Wine Tasting and Travelogue with native wines, a tour of Cape Town and a Safari. Cost is $35. To register, contact tamara@goldenjourneystravel.com or visit goldenjourneystravel.com.
San Diego wines have been making news these days with some wineries taking home some serious awards from top ranked competitions. Sun. May 15th you can experience some 27 wineries including Orfila, Fallbrook, Woof ‘N Rose, San Pasqual and many more, in a festival of wine and food at Bernardo Winery, that will also be pouring their wines. Time will be 1 to 4pm, with a cost of $50. per person and includes unlimited wine tasting and a selection of gourmet foods.
There are now 115 wineries in San Diego County . It is fascinating that San Diego was the first region in California where vineyards were planted and wine produced, when the Spanish missions were first built. The Bernardo Winery location is at 13330 Paseo del Verano in Rancho Bernardo. Visit sandiegowineries.org for details. For tickets go to sdcvawine2016.brownpapertickets.com.
Wine Bytes
Tablas Creek Vineyards of Paso Robles comes to a Winemaker Dinner at Inn L’Auberge Del Mar, Tues. May 17th at 6:30pm. A five course, 6 wine occasion will spotlight Spring Lamb with Tablas Creek 2013 Esprit de Tablas. $125. ea. RSVP at 858-793-6460.
Island Prime on Harbor Island San Diego is planning a Wines of the World with the Winemakers, Sat. May 21st from 12 Noon to 2pm. Tickets are $40. pp. This is a combination symposium and tasting with 5 winemakers: New Zealand , South Africa , Argentina and Australia with 10 wines to be tasted. Call 619-298-6802.
Fazeli Cellars in Temecula presents Studio 54, Sat. June 4th from 6 to 10pm. Flares, afros, platforms, bling, disco, dancing, food wine and beer. Price is $79.99. Club members $69.99. Call 951-303-3366.
Showing posts with label RELM Wine Beer Bistro Carlsbad. Show all posts
Showing posts with label RELM Wine Beer Bistro Carlsbad. Show all posts
Monday, May 9, 2016
Monday, March 17, 2014
California Wines on the Road Less Traveled
Between the Central California coastal city of Lompoc and the town of Buellton , just west of the 101, lies 30,700 square acres of the Sta. Rita Hills . This pristine, peaceful land is located in Santa Barbara County and is part of the Santa Ynez Valley AVA. ( American Viticulture Area)
Its history as Sta. Rita Hills AVA dates back only to 2005, but Franciscan missionaries were planting as early as 1787. Today, some 2,900 acres are planted to wine grapes in rocky soil where coastal fog fills the valley and hills intensifying a cool-climate influence, what’s needed for quality Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Pinot makes up about 78% of the vines in the area.
Natural acidity, balanced with firm structure, is a common thread in the wines throughout the region where some 60 vineyards and wineries have been established.
My sources for this article included two enthusiastic disciples of the Sta. Rita Hills wine country. Joshua Orr is the in-house sommelier and bar manager at Marina Kitchen, in the Marriott Marquis and Marina in downtown San Diego . In my conversations with him about wines with unique characteristics, his passion for Sta. Rita Hills poured out, and he revealed plans for an afternoon wine tasting of the region and a BBQ dinner to follow, on Sunday March 30. The consumer tasting will start at 3pm, with the BBQ at 5:30pm. That caught my attention, so I called the other disciple, Barbara Satterfield, who is the Executive Director of the Sta. Rita Hills Wine Growers Alliance. “We have an ideal climate for Pinot Noir with the perfect elevation, climate and soil, that define our AVA,” she said. “We are very excited to be coming to San Diego , especially after a great 2013 harvest with high yields and quality grapes.”
The Marina Kitchen event Sunday March 30 will be a walk around with 20 wineries pouring for $20. per person. The BBQ features many active food stations, large format bottles and more selections not found in the walk around. Cost is $45. each. A discount will be offered for both. Purchase tickets at eventbrite.com. Keyword is Sta. Rita Hills .
Bogle is Best of Breed for Value Wines
Wine Spectator recently confirmed what I have been saying ever since I discovered the wonderful world of wine, paid $9.00 for a Petite Sirah and fell in love with Bogle.
This 2010 version was named a “top value” by the world’s largest circulated wine magazine. Most recently Bogle increased sales by 16% to 1.75 million cases, the core portfolio features 10 offerings, including the most recent blend, Essential Red ($10.) It contains Old Vine Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet and Petite Sirah and is aged 18 months in French oak.
“Our brand is really founded on value, and our core principal has always been to produce great wines for the money,” said Chris Catterton of Bogle Sales and Marketing in a recent column in Wine Spectator. The growth of sales was nearly out of control, until Bogle spent 50 million dollars on a new wine facility in Clarksburg in the Sacramento Delta, adding storage of about 100,000 barrels. Concentrated, rich and savory, Bogle’s appeal is all about every person’s budget at no sacrifice in quality. See more at www.boglewinery.com.
Wine Bytes
The 3rd annual San Diego International Wine Show is scheduled at the Paddock, San Diego Fairgrounds in Del Mar Apr. 26 and 27. Spaces are still left for wineries in California . Contact the show producer at 760-807-6042.
RELM Wine Beer Bistro in Carlsbad will hold a cooking with wine class Sun. March 23 from 5:30 to 7:30pm. Private chef Victoria East shows how to prepare amazing dishes with wine. $45. ea. Phone 760-230-2077.
Mille Fleurs in Rancho Santa Fe has its next Taste of Terroirs dinner, Tues. March 25 featuring Argentine wines. Owner Bertrand Hug will lead guests through 6 wines. $100. per guest. RSVP at 858-756-3085.
Vittorio’s in Carmel Valley off the 56 has a Foxen wine dinner Thurs. March 27 at 6pm. 5 courses with 5 Foxen wines. $54.50 pp. RSVP at 858-538-5884.
Its history as Sta. Rita Hills AVA dates back only to 2005, but Franciscan missionaries were planting as early as 1787. Today, some 2,900 acres are planted to wine grapes in rocky soil where coastal fog fills the valley and hills intensifying a cool-climate influence, what’s needed for quality Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Pinot makes up about 78% of the vines in the area.
The Pacific Ocean’s cooling influence helps Central Coastal California ’s Sta. Rita Hills produce some of the best Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the state.
Natural acidity, balanced with firm structure, is a common thread in the wines throughout the region where some 60 vineyards and wineries have been established.
My sources for this article included two enthusiastic disciples of the Sta. Rita Hills wine country. Joshua Orr is the in-house sommelier and bar manager at Marina Kitchen, in the Marriott Marquis and Marina in downtown San Diego . In my conversations with him about wines with unique characteristics, his passion for Sta. Rita Hills poured out, and he revealed plans for an afternoon wine tasting of the region and a BBQ dinner to follow, on Sunday March 30. The consumer tasting will start at 3pm, with the BBQ at 5:30pm. That caught my attention, so I called the other disciple, Barbara Satterfield, who is the Executive Director of the Sta. Rita Hills Wine Growers Alliance. “We have an ideal climate for Pinot Noir with the perfect elevation, climate and soil, that define our AVA,” she said. “We are very excited to be coming to San Diego , especially after a great 2013 harvest with high yields and quality grapes.”
The Marina Kitchen event Sunday March 30 will be a walk around with 20 wineries pouring for $20. per person. The BBQ features many active food stations, large format bottles and more selections not found in the walk around. Cost is $45. each. A discount will be offered for both. Purchase tickets at eventbrite.com. Keyword is Sta. Rita Hills .
Bogle is Best of Breed for Value Wines
Wine Spectator recently confirmed what I have been saying ever since I discovered the wonderful world of wine, paid $9.00 for a Petite Sirah and fell in love with Bogle.
That look of determination belongs to Warren Bogle, President and Vineyard Manager of Bogle
Vineyards and a 6th generation family farmer.
This 2010 version was named a “top value” by the world’s largest circulated wine magazine. Most recently Bogle increased sales by 16% to 1.75 million cases, the core portfolio features 10 offerings, including the most recent blend, Essential Red ($10.) It contains Old Vine Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet and Petite Sirah and is aged 18 months in French oak.
“Our brand is really founded on value, and our core principal has always been to produce great wines for the money,” said Chris Catterton of Bogle Sales and Marketing in a recent column in Wine Spectator. The growth of sales was nearly out of control, until Bogle spent 50 million dollars on a new wine facility in Clarksburg in the Sacramento Delta, adding storage of about 100,000 barrels. Concentrated, rich and savory, Bogle’s appeal is all about every person’s budget at no sacrifice in quality. See more at www.boglewinery.com.
Wine Bytes
The 3rd annual San Diego International Wine Show is scheduled at the Paddock, San Diego Fairgrounds in Del Mar Apr. 26 and 27. Spaces are still left for wineries in California . Contact the show producer at 760-807-6042.
RELM Wine Beer Bistro in Carlsbad will hold a cooking with wine class Sun. March 23 from 5:30 to 7:30pm. Private chef Victoria East shows how to prepare amazing dishes with wine. $45. ea. Phone 760-230-2077.
Mille Fleurs in Rancho Santa Fe has its next Taste of Terroirs dinner, Tues. March 25 featuring Argentine wines. Owner Bertrand Hug will lead guests through 6 wines. $100. per guest. RSVP at 858-756-3085.
Vittorio’s in Carmel Valley off the 56 has a Foxen wine dinner Thurs. March 27 at 6pm. 5 courses with 5 Foxen wines. $54.50 pp. RSVP at 858-538-5884.
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Relax, Enjoy, Laugh More = RELM
by Frank Mangio
RELM is an inviting, comfortable wine beer bistro in the middle of the downtown district of Carlsbad.
RELM was one of the first in the market to offer a large retail wine shop within the bistro. Its energetic owner is Rene Fleming who, 4 years ago, decided to take her knowledge and experience in selling wine at the wholesale level, and set up a retail wine operation that would give smaller vineyards and wineries a place for customers to discover their brands.
“Here it’s all about new small production wines to open our minds and palates to what’s new and wonderful,” she said. “What has helped this strategy is a younger wine demographic that loves to discuss new wines. If you don’t know our wine labels, that’s exciting for us.”
The RELM name was a natural and underlines the feeling that Fleming projects, that of coming in, and having a home away from home . “I always want our bistro to be a family place with a sense of community. We have people that have met here and became close friends”
Equally exciting is the growth of the small bites menu, created and shaped by Chef Aaron Ahlquist. The menu is seasonal although certain favorites stay by popular demand, like Prosciutto Mac and Cheese, house-made Hummus and Baked Brie with strawberry coulis. The bistro encourages sharing plates and suggests wines by the flight for a multi-tasting experience.
Microbrewed beer has been a fast and trendy seller and RELM was quick to add some 5 draft and 6 bottled beers to the menu. “It’s really cool that San Diego is the micro beer capital. We carry nut brown ale and amber ale from Stone
Brewing, the most popular name in micro brewing, that got its start in 1996 in nearby Escondido . We get a big turnout for sporting events when lots of couples gather and ask for the beer list. This trend is here to stay,” she declared.
RELM is now up to 15 employees and has added another location in San Elijo, which is doing just as well. A happy time to try RELM is at their Happy Hours from Tuesday through Friday from 4 to 6pm. All food items are 25% off. A select number of white and red wines are $7. each and “happy beer” is just $5.
A recent wine tasting event brought some 40 wines to the show for customers to taste and Fleming promises more to come, as well as live music every Tuesday and Thursday from 6 to 9pm. Cooking classes with wine are on the events menu as well as speed dating with Cloud 9.
It’s been a long road for Rene Fleming from representing wine companies, operating cafes and wine education, to the RELM model of Relax, Enjoy, Laugh More. To that we can add a comfortable destination for great food, drinks and a community spirit of giving. RELM has a “random acts of kindness” program that is unlike anything I’ve seen where giving back to community is just as important as financial success. Get the full story on RELM and purchase event tickets by visiting www.thewinerelm.com.
Wine Bytes
Vittorio’s Restaurant in Carmel Valley San Diego is having a Super Bowl Party Sun. Feb. 2 at 12 Noon and showing the game at 3:30pm. Happy Hour the entire day and half priced bottles of wine. 30% off on delivery and take out. Call 858-538-5884.
Twenty/20 in Carlsbad at the Sheraton Hotel is planning a J Vineyards Wine Pairing Dinner, Wed. Feb. 5 from 6pm, with a 5:30pm reception. Cost is $70. pp. with a 4 course tasting menu and 5 wine pairings. To RSVP call 760-827-2500.
Meritage Wine Market in Encinitas has a Zinful Zinfandel wine tasting Fri. Feb. 7 from 6 to 8pm for $20. ea. Call 760-479-2500.
A 90+ points Wine Dinner is happening at Capri Blu in Rancho Bernardo Wed. Feb. 5 at 6pm. From Pinot Gris to Cabernet, enjoy the best with a 4 course dinner. Cost $55. Call 858-673-5100.
RELM is an inviting, comfortable wine beer bistro in the middle of the downtown district of Carlsbad.
RELM was one of the first in the market to offer a large retail wine shop within the bistro. Its energetic owner is Rene Fleming who, 4 years ago, decided to take her knowledge and experience in selling wine at the wholesale level, and set up a retail wine operation that would give smaller vineyards and wineries a place for customers to discover their brands.
Rene Fleming, operator of RELM Wine Beer Bistro in downtown Carlsbad
“Here it’s all about new small production wines to open our minds and palates to what’s new and wonderful,” she said. “What has helped this strategy is a younger wine demographic that loves to discuss new wines. If you don’t know our wine labels, that’s exciting for us.”
The RELM name was a natural and underlines the feeling that Fleming projects, that of coming in, and having a home away from home . “I always want our bistro to be a family place with a sense of community. We have people that have met here and became close friends”
Equally exciting is the growth of the small bites menu, created and shaped by Chef Aaron Ahlquist. The menu is seasonal although certain favorites stay by popular demand, like Prosciutto Mac and Cheese, house-made Hummus and Baked Brie with strawberry coulis. The bistro encourages sharing plates and suggests wines by the flight for a multi-tasting experience.
Microbrewed beer has been a fast and trendy seller and RELM was quick to add some 5 draft and 6 bottled beers to the menu. “It’s really cool that San Diego is the micro beer capital. We carry nut brown ale and amber ale from Stone
The interior of RELM Wine Beer Bistro is warm and inviting and a favorite meeting place
in downtown Carlsbad .
in downtown Carlsbad .
Brewing, the most popular name in micro brewing, that got its start in 1996 in nearby Escondido . We get a big turnout for sporting events when lots of couples gather and ask for the beer list. This trend is here to stay,” she declared.
RELM is now up to 15 employees and has added another location in San Elijo, which is doing just as well. A happy time to try RELM is at their Happy Hours from Tuesday through Friday from 4 to 6pm. All food items are 25% off. A select number of white and red wines are $7. each and “happy beer” is just $5.
A recent wine tasting event brought some 40 wines to the show for customers to taste and Fleming promises more to come, as well as live music every Tuesday and Thursday from 6 to 9pm. Cooking classes with wine are on the events menu as well as speed dating with Cloud 9.
It’s been a long road for Rene Fleming from representing wine companies, operating cafes and wine education, to the RELM model of Relax, Enjoy, Laugh More. To that we can add a comfortable destination for great food, drinks and a community spirit of giving. RELM has a “random acts of kindness” program that is unlike anything I’ve seen where giving back to community is just as important as financial success. Get the full story on RELM and purchase event tickets by visiting www.thewinerelm.com.
Wine Bytes
Vittorio’s Restaurant in Carmel Valley San Diego is having a Super Bowl Party Sun. Feb. 2 at 12 Noon and showing the game at 3:30pm. Happy Hour the entire day and half priced bottles of wine. 30% off on delivery and take out. Call 858-538-5884.
Twenty/20 in Carlsbad at the Sheraton Hotel is planning a J Vineyards Wine Pairing Dinner, Wed. Feb. 5 from 6pm, with a 5:30pm reception. Cost is $70. pp. with a 4 course tasting menu and 5 wine pairings. To RSVP call 760-827-2500.
Meritage Wine Market in Encinitas has a Zinful Zinfandel wine tasting Fri. Feb. 7 from 6 to 8pm for $20. ea. Call 760-479-2500.
A 90+ points Wine Dinner is happening at Capri Blu in Rancho Bernardo Wed. Feb. 5 at 6pm. From Pinot Gris to Cabernet, enjoy the best with a 4 course dinner. Cost $55. Call 858-673-5100.
Saturday, January 11, 2014
Temecula Wine Country Update
by Frank Mangio
Now that the pace of life in SoCal has calmed down and constant rounds of socializing at world class parties, events and football bowl games has faded away, it’s time to gather up 2013, put it in to the Guiness Book of World Records and look forward to ever more in 2014. First thing I want to set my sights on are the developments in the growing wine country in Southern California ’s Temecula.
Here’s a wine country that should be getting more respect in the greater wine world of the consumer that buys at big wine shops, groceries, restaurants, hotels and resorts. I realize many of the 35 or so wineries are still small by comparison, but a closer look shows a good percentage are gaining in competition with their more established brethren elsewhere in California , in international tasting events and total visitors at the wineries.
Most of the season, Temecula has warm, dry days and cool nights, with breezes blanketing the area under vine. It took a number of years and a severe disease for Temecula wineries to find their “sense of place,” a Mediterranean style of wine, with varietals that are derived from the south of France Spain, Italy , Croatia and Portugal . Many still make wonderful Cabernets and Chardonnays, but an increasing number are discovering varietals that match up nicely with their special climate, elevation and terroir, providing them with a warmer climate wine that the central and northern coast of California cannot match.
Here is a roundup of recent developments and new releases of interest.
John Thornton along with his son Steve, from Thornton Winery, has released 5 new wines made by winemaker David Vergari. They are a 2012 Barbera, Merlot, Sangiovese and “Toot Sweet Red,” and a 2011 Tempranillo. Thornton is one of the best examples of an expanded list of wines, to include many Mediterranean styles.
Further into Temecula wine country, Monte De Oro continues to expand its list and outreach with recent appearances and tastings by GM and part owner Ken Zignorski.
Monte De Oro was a feature at the popular Capri Blu Restaurant in Rancho Bernardo and the San Diego Bay Wine and Food Festival. Two to try here are the just released 2010 Syrah and the 2009 Synergy 65 which made the Top Ten Tastes at TASTE OF WINE.
The De Portola Trail district of Temecula wine country is on watch with Robert Renzoni Winery constructing a beautiful new tasting villa that should open the beginning of March. Their wines are showing up in San Diego restaurants like Tony Roma’s and Petrini’s. My scouts tell me that the new “Old Vine Zin” is a new one to try.
Oak Mountain Winery is starting construction on their new 10,000 square foot caves. It’s the first mined cave in Southern California . You should try their Rousanne, an unusual white wine from the south of France .
Keyways Winery is under new ownership and I’m keeping my eye open for big changes. I am high in praise of their 2011 Tempranillo with lots of black fruit and minerality.
The next Temecula Wine Country event is coming Sat. and Sun. March 1st and 2nd and the theme is World of Wine Barrel Tasting with all wineries participating. This 2 day all day celebration demonstrates how the Temecula South Coast wineries grow varietals from all over the world and is “passport” style where guests with a glass and map can enjoy a self guided tour through this wine country. You will enjoy new releases, barrel tasting, food sampling and live music. Ticket levels start at $79.00 each. Call 800-801-9463 or visit www.temeculawines.org.
Wine Bytes
RELM Wine & Beer Bistro in Carlsbad has weekly live music every Tuesday and Thursday at 6pm as it kicks off its 2014 calendar of events. Call 760-434-9463 for more.
Tuscany Italian Restaurant in Carlsbad presents live comedy in its new Copa Room with CBS Late Show funnyman Bobby Tessel, Sat. Jan. 18. Doors open 7pm, showtime at 8pm. $25. advance, $30. at the door. Call 760-929-8111.
A Taste of Bressi, benefiting the Boys & Girls Club of Carlsbad happens Sat. Jan. 25 from 6 to 9pm. This is a walk-around tasting with beer and wine. Cost is $80. pp. Call 760-444-4893.
Now that the pace of life in SoCal has calmed down and constant rounds of socializing at world class parties, events and football bowl games has faded away, it’s time to gather up 2013, put it in to the Guiness Book of World Records and look forward to ever more in 2014. First thing I want to set my sights on are the developments in the growing wine country in Southern California ’s Temecula.
Here’s a wine country that should be getting more respect in the greater wine world of the consumer that buys at big wine shops, groceries, restaurants, hotels and resorts. I realize many of the 35 or so wineries are still small by comparison, but a closer look shows a good percentage are gaining in competition with their more established brethren elsewhere in California , in international tasting events and total visitors at the wineries.
John Thornton of Thornton Winery in Temecula introduces columnist Frank Mangio to
his new wine releases
his new wine releases
Most of the season, Temecula has warm, dry days and cool nights, with breezes blanketing the area under vine. It took a number of years and a severe disease for Temecula wineries to find their “sense of place,” a Mediterranean style of wine, with varietals that are derived from the south of France Spain, Italy , Croatia and Portugal . Many still make wonderful Cabernets and Chardonnays, but an increasing number are discovering varietals that match up nicely with their special climate, elevation and terroir, providing them with a warmer climate wine that the central and northern coast of California cannot match.
Here is a roundup of recent developments and new releases of interest.
John Thornton along with his son Steve, from Thornton Winery, has released 5 new wines made by winemaker David Vergari. They are a 2012 Barbera, Merlot, Sangiovese and “Toot Sweet Red,” and a 2011 Tempranillo. Thornton is one of the best examples of an expanded list of wines, to include many Mediterranean styles.
Further into Temecula wine country, Monte De Oro continues to expand its list and outreach with recent appearances and tastings by GM and part owner Ken Zignorski.
Monte De Oro was a feature at the popular Capri Blu Restaurant in Rancho Bernardo and the San Diego Bay Wine and Food Festival. Two to try here are the just released 2010 Syrah and the 2009 Synergy 65 which made the Top Ten Tastes at TASTE OF WINE.
Ken Zignorski of Monte De Oro Winery, with Peggy Evans, Executive Director of the Temecula
Wine Growers Association promoting Temecula wines at the recent
San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival.
San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival.
The De Portola Trail district of Temecula wine country is on watch with Robert Renzoni Winery constructing a beautiful new tasting villa that should open the beginning of March. Their wines are showing up in San Diego restaurants like Tony Roma’s and Petrini’s. My scouts tell me that the new “Old Vine Zin” is a new one to try.
Oak Mountain Winery is starting construction on their new 10,000 square foot caves. It’s the first mined cave in Southern California . You should try their Rousanne, an unusual white wine from the south of France .
Keyways Winery is under new ownership and I’m keeping my eye open for big changes. I am high in praise of their 2011 Tempranillo with lots of black fruit and minerality.
The next Temecula Wine Country event is coming Sat. and Sun. March 1st and 2nd and the theme is World of Wine Barrel Tasting with all wineries participating. This 2 day all day celebration demonstrates how the Temecula South Coast wineries grow varietals from all over the world and is “passport” style where guests with a glass and map can enjoy a self guided tour through this wine country. You will enjoy new releases, barrel tasting, food sampling and live music. Ticket levels start at $79.00 each. Call 800-801-9463 or visit www.temeculawines.org.
Wine Bytes
RELM Wine & Beer Bistro in Carlsbad has weekly live music every Tuesday and Thursday at 6pm as it kicks off its 2014 calendar of events. Call 760-434-9463 for more.
Tuscany Italian Restaurant in Carlsbad presents live comedy in its new Copa Room with CBS Late Show funnyman Bobby Tessel, Sat. Jan. 18. Doors open 7pm, showtime at 8pm. $25. advance, $30. at the door. Call 760-929-8111.
A Taste of Bressi, benefiting the Boys & Girls Club of Carlsbad happens Sat. Jan. 25 from 6 to 9pm. This is a walk-around tasting with beer and wine. Cost is $80. pp. Call 760-444-4893.
Friday, December 6, 2013
South American Wines on a Roll
by Frank Mangio
Sensing an opening for their quality wines, Chile has been moving smartly in the American market to consolidate their wine sales gains and find new markets to present their Cabernet, Chardonnay and Syrah. Their “home-town” grape, Carmenere, is getting a reputation as the national grape but has a way to go for quality, with a distinctly “bell or jalapeno pepper” taste.
It was February 2010 when the earth shook tragically in Chile just before the harvest ( seasons are reversed in South America.) Steel tanks were flattened and broken bottles were strewn all over the land as Chile lost some 20% of their wine. Leading wineries such as Concho Y Toro, Emiliana, Casa Lapostolle and Montes made sure their vineyards were restored and muscled their way to save the 2010 crop still on the vines.
Emiliana, located in the Colchagua Valley just south of Santiago the capital of Chile, is the foremost organic winery located in the foothills of the Andes Mountains, similar to the Central Coast of California.
It produces rich, dark fruit from a lineup of Syrah, Carmenere, Merlot, Cabernet, Petit Verdot and Mourvedre. Their Coyam 2010 Blend caught my attention. ($24.50) Winemaker Noela Orts emphasized the high standard for production and full expression of terrior. The Los Robles Estate is certified organic and biodynamic. See more at www.emiliana.
Alberto Siegel is a distinguished gentleman farmer from Santiago Chile and of Austrian descent. He started out selling fertilizer to Colchagua Valley wineries, before selling wine as a broker with his own brand, Vina Siegel. Varieties grown are: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet and the Gran Crucero blend 2010. “Our wines have rich minerality and we do well in America, our 2nd largest market behind England,” he said. “Americans like to try different wines and this helps us with our lower prices than similar California wines.
This year’s harvest was a challenge for us as the weather was colder than most, so we lowered yields to keep up the quality of the wines.”
Chilean wines were spotlighted at a recent wine dinner at Twenty/20 at the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort.
Food and Beverage Director Chris McNally was very excited to display the recently arrived Executive Sous Chef Andres Hinojosa, originally from Chile, who created a wine pairing dinner with the master winery Concho Y Toro. It is considered Chile’s finest wine due to its popular Don Melchor brand, a 100% Cabernet.
McNally emphasized the importance of Chilean wines when he stated “we see great growth from that region. We are creating menus with that influence, and Chef Andres is giving us fresh insight with his dishes like Pollo Arvejado, a Paprika Chicken, paired with the 2011 Chardonnay Marques Casa De Concho.” ($16.99).
The most acclaimed wine in Chile is easily Concho Y Toro’s Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon (2008-$90.). This ripe, dense red shows mocha and toasty oak with a rich cassis flavored black cherry and plum character. Ripe tannins lead to a long, juicy finish. Concho Y Toro, based in Santiago, is the largest producer of wines from Latin America and a global leader. See www.conchoytoro.com.
Wine Bytes
Bacchus Wine Market downtown San Diego has an Italian Sangiovese Tasting Sat. Dec. 14 from 2 to 8:30pm. Some of Italy’s finest wines are based on Sangiovese. Sample 6 for $20. Details at 619-236-0005.
Tuscany Italian Restaurant & Lounge in Carlsbad presents Jazz & R&B Christmas Songs featuring The Tuscany All Stars House Band Sun. Dec. 15 at 2pm. In the Copa Room. Tickets $30. in advance. Call 760-929-8111.
RELM Wine Beer Bistro Carlsbad returns with events starting with a Holiday Wine Tasting Sun. Dec. 15, 5 to 8pm, with over 70 wines to try for only $25. pp. Appetizers served. Details at 760-434-9463.
Wine Steals in Cardiff has a holiday dessert wine tasting Wed. Dec. 18 from 5:30 to 7:30pm. Taste these wines for $5. ea. No RSVP needed.
Vittorio’s Trattoria, off the 56 in San Diego is planning a Robert Sinskey Sonoma/Napa Vineyards wine dinner Thurs. Dec. 19 at 6pm. Cost is $49.50 pp. The vineyard’s rep will speak about the wines. A Pinot Noir and the winery’s blends will be featured. RSVP at 858-538-5884.
Sensing an opening for their quality wines, Chile has been moving smartly in the American market to consolidate their wine sales gains and find new markets to present their Cabernet, Chardonnay and Syrah. Their “home-town” grape, Carmenere, is getting a reputation as the national grape but has a way to go for quality, with a distinctly “bell or jalapeno pepper” taste.
It was February 2010 when the earth shook tragically in Chile just before the harvest ( seasons are reversed in South America.) Steel tanks were flattened and broken bottles were strewn all over the land as Chile lost some 20% of their wine. Leading wineries such as Concho Y Toro, Emiliana, Casa Lapostolle and Montes made sure their vineyards were restored and muscled their way to save the 2010 crop still on the vines.
Emiliana, located in the Colchagua Valley just south of Santiago the capital of Chile, is the foremost organic winery located in the foothills of the Andes Mountains, similar to the Central Coast of California.
Noela Orts is one of Emiliana’s winemakers at the Chilean Los Robles Estate.
She has also made wine in Spain and New Zealand.
She has also made wine in Spain and New Zealand.
It produces rich, dark fruit from a lineup of Syrah, Carmenere, Merlot, Cabernet, Petit Verdot and Mourvedre. Their Coyam 2010 Blend caught my attention. ($24.50) Winemaker Noela Orts emphasized the high standard for production and full expression of terrior. The Los Robles Estate is certified organic and biodynamic. See more at www.emiliana.
Alberto Siegel is a distinguished gentleman farmer from Santiago Chile and of Austrian descent. He started out selling fertilizer to Colchagua Valley wineries, before selling wine as a broker with his own brand, Vina Siegel. Varieties grown are: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet and the Gran Crucero blend 2010. “Our wines have rich minerality and we do well in America, our 2nd largest market behind England,” he said. “Americans like to try different wines and this helps us with our lower prices than similar California wines.
This year’s harvest was a challenge for us as the weather was colder than most, so we lowered yields to keep up the quality of the wines.”
Chilean wines were spotlighted at a recent wine dinner at Twenty/20 at the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort.
Food and Beverage Director Chris McNally was very excited to display the recently arrived Executive Sous Chef Andres Hinojosa, originally from Chile, who created a wine pairing dinner with the master winery Concho Y Toro. It is considered Chile’s finest wine due to its popular Don Melchor brand, a 100% Cabernet.
Twenty/20 at the Sheraton Carlsbad hosted a Chilean wine dinner recently. Organizers included:
Food & Beverage Director Chris McNally, Sous Chef Andres Honojosa and Concho Y Toro rep Art Pinn.
McNally emphasized the importance of Chilean wines when he stated “we see great growth from that region. We are creating menus with that influence, and Chef Andres is giving us fresh insight with his dishes like Pollo Arvejado, a Paprika Chicken, paired with the 2011 Chardonnay Marques Casa De Concho.” ($16.99).
The most acclaimed wine in Chile is easily Concho Y Toro’s Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon (2008-$90.). This ripe, dense red shows mocha and toasty oak with a rich cassis flavored black cherry and plum character. Ripe tannins lead to a long, juicy finish. Concho Y Toro, based in Santiago, is the largest producer of wines from Latin America and a global leader. See www.conchoytoro.com.
Wine Bytes
Bacchus Wine Market downtown San Diego has an Italian Sangiovese Tasting Sat. Dec. 14 from 2 to 8:30pm. Some of Italy’s finest wines are based on Sangiovese. Sample 6 for $20. Details at 619-236-0005.
Tuscany Italian Restaurant & Lounge in Carlsbad presents Jazz & R&B Christmas Songs featuring The Tuscany All Stars House Band Sun. Dec. 15 at 2pm. In the Copa Room. Tickets $30. in advance. Call 760-929-8111.
RELM Wine Beer Bistro Carlsbad returns with events starting with a Holiday Wine Tasting Sun. Dec. 15, 5 to 8pm, with over 70 wines to try for only $25. pp. Appetizers served. Details at 760-434-9463.
Wine Steals in Cardiff has a holiday dessert wine tasting Wed. Dec. 18 from 5:30 to 7:30pm. Taste these wines for $5. ea. No RSVP needed.
Vittorio’s Trattoria, off the 56 in San Diego is planning a Robert Sinskey Sonoma/Napa Vineyards wine dinner Thurs. Dec. 19 at 6pm. Cost is $49.50 pp. The vineyard’s rep will speak about the wines. A Pinot Noir and the winery’s blends will be featured. RSVP at 858-538-5884.
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