Showing posts with label blind wine tasting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label blind wine tasting. Show all posts
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.
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.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Four Southern California Winemakers That Are Making a Difference
by Frank Mangio
Southern California does so many things in such a big way. The rest of the world can only follow, and when trends catch on elsewhere, “SOCAL” is on to something else. People flock here to catch the trendy wave of opportunity.
Population has swelled to some 13 million in 5 counties, yet the big puzzle is why hasn’t the wine industry kept pace. After all, the first wine in the state was made in the 1700’s by the missionaries in San Diego. Now over 50 wineries operate in the county, mainly in Ramona and Julian. Temecula in Riverside County has 1300 acres planted in wine grapes and plans to create up to 5,000 more acres of “citrus/vineyards” in a protected zone. It is fast becoming Southern California’s Wine Country with easy access to over 30 wineries. Elsewhere, vineyards and wineries show up in such urban areas as Malibu, downtown Los Angeles, Rancho Cucamonga and Westlake Village.
If we look a little closer, we can find some competitive and dedicated professionals making high quality wines, mainly in San Diego and Riverside Counties. Here are four you’ll want to know.
Les Linkogle will be the first one to tell you that he makes only ultra premium handcrafted wines that are expensive, with some reds as good as any in the Valley. Tasting is by appointment only. That makes him a wine making contrarian and that is a label he will gladly wear over his heart. “We are very different and like to feel we are like those smaller, premium boutique wineries in Napa Valley,”he said. He and his wife Dorian opened the doors of Briar Rose Winery in 2007, converted it from a country cottage home built with the wistful imagination of a Disney builder in the 70’s who fashioned it from Snow White’s cottage.
Linkogle considers his wines “art in a bottle.” Discerning locals and even Hollywood celebrities caught on to the Briar Rose wine experience and soon orders for Briar Rose wines were coming from such diverse locations as the White House and the Playboy Mansion. His reds were gathering medals by the bushel, especially small batch, barrel enhanced Cabernets that are turning heads in the wine world. Linkogle is now the Southern District Director of the prestigious Wine Institute. You must try the wines, but keep in mind, you must also make a reservation. Call 951-308-1098. The website is www.briarrosewinery.com.
Ryan Baker cut his teeth in the wine industry in the Napa -Sonoma area before arriving at Witch Creek Winery, an urban operation in the tourist-friendly beach resort of Carlsbad. He makes mostly Mediterranean style wine in the tasting room, rarely over 200 cases, and the varietals sell out quickly. Grapes are brought in from northern California and the Guadalupe Valley in Baja, Mexico. A decision was made in 2009 to enter 7 varietals, including lesser known Italian wines sourced from the Guadalupe Valley, into the San Francisco International Wine Competition. All 7 took medals, including Witch Creek’s 2006 Nebbiolo that was awarded “Best of Class!”
Baker, who was a chemist before the epiphany and listening to the call of winemaking, calls his Nebbiolo as good as any Barolo or Barbaresco in Piedmont Italy. (those are the premium wines that are made from the Nebbiolo grape).
“Our 2007 Nebbiolo is released and the $30. price is way lower than the Italian style price. The Cellar Club price is just $21. The mouth-feel is rich and round with blueberry and blackberry notes,” he said. “I m constantly experimenting, trying new combinations and blends. You have to try my latest, Due Pastore, a combination of Brunello and Aglianico.” We did and we loved it. Access www.witchcreekwinery.com.
Jon McPherson, along with Assistant Winemaker Javier Flores, have put South Coast Winery on the state and national map by capturing the Gold Bear California State Fair award for best winery in the state two of the last three years. This year it earned 56 medals at the fair. “It’s about letting the grapes speak. We listen and then carefully nurture the process.” He planted grapes in Texas as a kid, helping his father in the wine industry, then came to Southern California, determined to make great sparkling wines. He got his chance in 1986 as winemaker in what is now known as Thornton Winery in Temecula.
The winery eventually earned the title of “America’s Most Honored Sparkling Wine Producer.” When South Coast opened in 2003, Jon saw the opportunity and joined the team. The Wild Horse Peak series, with estate fruit harvested from South Coast’s vineyard at nearby Palomar Mountain is the crown jewel, producing best-of-breed 2006 Sangiovese, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. See more at www.wineresort.com.
Justin Mund is a winemaker with swagger and self-confidence , like a quarterback in football that always wants the ball. He’s been a winemaker for 9 years, making a name for himself in Sonoma with Ferrari Carano, then in the Central Coast with Addamo. He has recently come to Orfila replacing a winemaker legend in the area, Leon Santoro, who had been in charge since the origins of Orfila in 1994. “My challenge is to continually improve the wines while keeping the style on track. My wines are fruit driven and clean,” he said. “I found a lot of ’07 and ’08 varietals in-barrel and bottled them all. I want the wine in bottles and out for sale 18 months to 2 years after harvest.”
I asked him about the unusual 2010 growing season and he answered “I loved it! It was a cool season in a hot climate. We’ll have great flavor and a lower sugar count, with more hang time. We’ll get the acid up and the wines will be more accented. There is great potential here at Orfila and I want to step up the quality and ratings with a fresher, fruit forward style and a shorter vintage with lower alcohol. They will be balanced,” he promised.
Southern California wines have pockets of tradition and greatness and deserve our attention. Serious, quality wines can make their place among the “wine countries” of California. The new kids on the block are growing up.
Wine Bytes
Bernardo Winery in Rancho Bernardo has its 33rd annual Fall Arts and Crafts Fair Sat. and Sun. Oct. 16 and 17. Over 140 artisans will be on hand from 10am to 4pm. Live music, wine and food available. Park on the grounds. More details at 858-487-1866.
Holiday Wine Cellar in Escondido presents St Francis Winery Sat. Oct. 16 from 5 to 7pm. Big, bold Sonoma style wines will be tasted including Cabs, Merlots and Old Vine Zins. $10. pp. More at 760-745-1200.
Orfila Winery in Escondido starts Concerts in the Vines Sun Oct. 17 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Latin jazz kicks it off. $15 for club members. $20. everyone else. Questions call 760-738-6500.
Girls Night Out parties rock on at Tesoro Winery Tasting Room in Old Town Temecula Fri Oct 22 from 7 to 10pm. $24. includes wine tasting, appetizers, chocolate fountain and a chance to wine a prize basket. Call 951-308-0000.
Meritage Wine Market in Encinitas is pouring Merlot Mania Fri Oct. 22 from 6 to 8pm. $20 ea. Check out the list at 760-599-1200.
Southern California does so many things in such a big way. The rest of the world can only follow, and when trends catch on elsewhere, “SOCAL” is on to something else. People flock here to catch the trendy wave of opportunity.
Population has swelled to some 13 million in 5 counties, yet the big puzzle is why hasn’t the wine industry kept pace. After all, the first wine in the state was made in the 1700’s by the missionaries in San Diego. Now over 50 wineries operate in the county, mainly in Ramona and Julian. Temecula in Riverside County has 1300 acres planted in wine grapes and plans to create up to 5,000 more acres of “citrus/vineyards” in a protected zone. It is fast becoming Southern California’s Wine Country with easy access to over 30 wineries. Elsewhere, vineyards and wineries show up in such urban areas as Malibu, downtown Los Angeles, Rancho Cucamonga and Westlake Village.
If we look a little closer, we can find some competitive and dedicated professionals making high quality wines, mainly in San Diego and Riverside Counties. Here are four you’ll want to know.
Les Linkogle will be the first one to tell you that he makes only ultra premium handcrafted wines that are expensive, with some reds as good as any in the Valley. Tasting is by appointment only. That makes him a wine making contrarian and that is a label he will gladly wear over his heart. “We are very different and like to feel we are like those smaller, premium boutique wineries in Napa Valley,”he said. He and his wife Dorian opened the doors of Briar Rose Winery in 2007, converted it from a country cottage home built with the wistful imagination of a Disney builder in the 70’s who fashioned it from Snow White’s cottage.
Linkogle considers his wines “art in a bottle.” Discerning locals and even Hollywood celebrities caught on to the Briar Rose wine experience and soon orders for Briar Rose wines were coming from such diverse locations as the White House and the Playboy Mansion. His reds were gathering medals by the bushel, especially small batch, barrel enhanced Cabernets that are turning heads in the wine world. Linkogle is now the Southern District Director of the prestigious Wine Institute. You must try the wines, but keep in mind, you must also make a reservation. Call 951-308-1098. The website is www.briarrosewinery.com.
Ryan Baker cut his teeth in the wine industry in the Napa -Sonoma area before arriving at Witch Creek Winery, an urban operation in the tourist-friendly beach resort of Carlsbad. He makes mostly Mediterranean style wine in the tasting room, rarely over 200 cases, and the varietals sell out quickly. Grapes are brought in from northern California and the Guadalupe Valley in Baja, Mexico. A decision was made in 2009 to enter 7 varietals, including lesser known Italian wines sourced from the Guadalupe Valley, into the San Francisco International Wine Competition. All 7 took medals, including Witch Creek’s 2006 Nebbiolo that was awarded “Best of Class!”
Baker, who was a chemist before the epiphany and listening to the call of winemaking, calls his Nebbiolo as good as any Barolo or Barbaresco in Piedmont Italy. (those are the premium wines that are made from the Nebbiolo grape).
“Our 2007 Nebbiolo is released and the $30. price is way lower than the Italian style price. The Cellar Club price is just $21. The mouth-feel is rich and round with blueberry and blackberry notes,” he said. “I m constantly experimenting, trying new combinations and blends. You have to try my latest, Due Pastore, a combination of Brunello and Aglianico.” We did and we loved it. Access www.witchcreekwinery.com.
Jon McPherson, along with Assistant Winemaker Javier Flores, have put South Coast Winery on the state and national map by capturing the Gold Bear California State Fair award for best winery in the state two of the last three years. This year it earned 56 medals at the fair. “It’s about letting the grapes speak. We listen and then carefully nurture the process.” He planted grapes in Texas as a kid, helping his father in the wine industry, then came to Southern California, determined to make great sparkling wines. He got his chance in 1986 as winemaker in what is now known as Thornton Winery in Temecula.
The winery eventually earned the title of “America’s Most Honored Sparkling Wine Producer.” When South Coast opened in 2003, Jon saw the opportunity and joined the team. The Wild Horse Peak series, with estate fruit harvested from South Coast’s vineyard at nearby Palomar Mountain is the crown jewel, producing best-of-breed 2006 Sangiovese, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. See more at www.wineresort.com.
Justin Mund is a winemaker with swagger and self-confidence , like a quarterback in football that always wants the ball. He’s been a winemaker for 9 years, making a name for himself in Sonoma with Ferrari Carano, then in the Central Coast with Addamo. He has recently come to Orfila replacing a winemaker legend in the area, Leon Santoro, who had been in charge since the origins of Orfila in 1994. “My challenge is to continually improve the wines while keeping the style on track. My wines are fruit driven and clean,” he said. “I found a lot of ’07 and ’08 varietals in-barrel and bottled them all. I want the wine in bottles and out for sale 18 months to 2 years after harvest.”
I asked him about the unusual 2010 growing season and he answered “I loved it! It was a cool season in a hot climate. We’ll have great flavor and a lower sugar count, with more hang time. We’ll get the acid up and the wines will be more accented. There is great potential here at Orfila and I want to step up the quality and ratings with a fresher, fruit forward style and a shorter vintage with lower alcohol. They will be balanced,” he promised.
Southern California wines have pockets of tradition and greatness and deserve our attention. Serious, quality wines can make their place among the “wine countries” of California. The new kids on the block are growing up.
Wine Bytes
Bernardo Winery in Rancho Bernardo has its 33rd annual Fall Arts and Crafts Fair Sat. and Sun. Oct. 16 and 17. Over 140 artisans will be on hand from 10am to 4pm. Live music, wine and food available. Park on the grounds. More details at 858-487-1866.
Holiday Wine Cellar in Escondido presents St Francis Winery Sat. Oct. 16 from 5 to 7pm. Big, bold Sonoma style wines will be tasted including Cabs, Merlots and Old Vine Zins. $10. pp. More at 760-745-1200.
Orfila Winery in Escondido starts Concerts in the Vines Sun Oct. 17 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Latin jazz kicks it off. $15 for club members. $20. everyone else. Questions call 760-738-6500.
Girls Night Out parties rock on at Tesoro Winery Tasting Room in Old Town Temecula Fri Oct 22 from 7 to 10pm. $24. includes wine tasting, appetizers, chocolate fountain and a chance to wine a prize basket. Call 951-308-0000.
Meritage Wine Market in Encinitas is pouring Merlot Mania Fri Oct. 22 from 6 to 8pm. $20 ea. Check out the list at 760-599-1200.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Inside Napa Valley Wine Country – Part 2
by Frank Mangio
Last week we took our readers through Part 1 of our latest journey in the hallowed wine country of Napa Valley, that 30 mile stretch of the most traveled visitor attraction in California and home to the most exalted group of wineries in the state, and arguably the world.
It all came together for Napa Valley in 1976 at the now famous French tasting where Napa Cabernet and Chardonnay beat its French counterparts, led by Chardonnay winemaker Mike Grgich, then with Chateau Montelana. Grgich proceeded to strike out on his own, and now two of
Napa Valley’s most delicious Chardonnays can be found at his Grgich Hills Estate just off Highway 29 in Rutherford. The family winery has now made the transition to Certified Organic and Biodynamic grape growing, that richly endows their two Chardonnay vintages: the ’07 Napa Valley ( $47.) and the ’06 Chardonnay Carneros Estate Grown ($75.). Fresh flavor and pleasing acidity, citrus flower and balanced minerality are hallmarks of these wines. See www.grgich.com.
The Carneros district, which encompasses the southern edge of both Sonoma and Napa Valley, is getting respect as an important wine country due to foggy mornings, warm daytime temperatures, the Petaluma winds in the afternoon and is naturally air conditioned with cooler nights from San Pablo Bay. Chardonnay is picked way later in September than most, allowing sugars to develop while keeping a bright acidity.
Dotting the Napa Valley landscape, with an important vineyard in Mendocino, is the Duckhorn Wine Company, a collection of 7 small winery estates co-founded by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn in 1976.
They produce 4 Merlots, 4 Cabernets, a Sauvignon Blanc and a Bordeaux Blend under the Duckhorn and Decoy labels. Other labels include Goldeneye with its lovely Pinor Noir from the Anderson Valley of Mendocino which I have reviewed into my most recent Top Ten Tastes. I was most impressed with the just released 2006 Napa Valley “The Discussion,” an artful blend of varietals from six of their estate vineyards. The composition includes: 53% Cabernet, 28% Merlot, 14% Cab Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. Duckhorn will quickly tell you that this is their highest acclaimed creation, and it’s true! ($115.) Learn more at www.duckhornvineyards.com.
The story of Tamber Bey Vineyards in the Yountville district of Napa Valley is a fascinating review of a high tech professional, who through hard work and perseverance, gets to live out his dream since childhood, raising Arabian horses and making estate wines. It began in 1999 when former Apple executive Barry Waitte bought 60 acres of prime Napa Valley land near Yountville and became a grape farmer. In quick order, he purchased an estate for his residence, as well as acreage for prime cabernet and a set of stables for his endurance racing Arabian horses. In 2003 the Tamber Bey label premiered, named after his two favorite Arabians: Tamborina and Bayamo, and released a Merlot, a Cabernet blend and a Chardonnay. The family of wines has since increased to another blend, Rabicano, and a 100% Cabernet.
“I’m a marketing guy and I was having an incredibly hard time finding a name for the winery,” Barry revealed. “One day Jennifer Nice, my winery manager and horse trainer and I were riding through the vineyards, and she says, why don’t you just call it Tamber Bey with an equestrian theme throughout?” Barry agreed and quickly made a number of horse terms part of the Tamber Bey lexicon.
Tamber Bey was a major player in the annual Wine Auction Week, a charitable event held recently by the Napa Valley Vintners Association. His current 2007 Rabicano, (and my Tamber Bey personal favorite, which made my latest Top Ten Tastes) was a stellar performer in raising a portion of the 8.5 million raised. 375 cases were made, and Barry vows the 2008 edition is going up to 1,000 cases. It sells for $48.
Here’s a real comer to the Napa Valley wine scene and you don’t want to miss it. Find out more at www.tamberbey.com.
Wine Bytes
Canapes in San Marcos hosts a John Hawley Sonoma Winemaker Dinner Tues. July 27 from 6:30 to 8pm. Chardonnay, Pinot Noirs and Zins will be poured paired with Canapes special menu items. $65. each. Limited guests so call 760-510-2088 asap.
Meritage Wine Market in Encinitas is pulling out some great Zinfandels for its Friday Tasting on July 30 from 6 to 8pm. Call 760-479-2500 for price and RSVP.
The WineSellar & Brasserie in San Diego is presenting a Flowers Winery Dinner with winemaker Darren Lowe, Fri. July 30. Reception starts at 6:30pm. Cost is $95. Call for reservations at 858-450-9557
In Temecula Wine Country, Briar Rose Winery has a BBQ and Blues Fundraiser on Sat. July 31 starting at 5:30pm. Four local BBQ entries will be judged as best ribs in town. Tickets are $48. pp. Call 951-308-1098.
Bacchus Wine Market in the Gaslamp downtown San Diego is having another Brown Bag wine event on Sat. July 31, 2 to 9pm. Cost is $15. Of the 8 wines to try, if you are right on 4 of them, you will win a gift. More info at 619-236-0005.
Last week we took our readers through Part 1 of our latest journey in the hallowed wine country of Napa Valley, that 30 mile stretch of the most traveled visitor attraction in California and home to the most exalted group of wineries in the state, and arguably the world.
It all came together for Napa Valley in 1976 at the now famous French tasting where Napa Cabernet and Chardonnay beat its French counterparts, led by Chardonnay winemaker Mike Grgich, then with Chateau Montelana. Grgich proceeded to strike out on his own, and now two of
Napa Valley’s most delicious Chardonnays can be found at his Grgich Hills Estate just off Highway 29 in Rutherford. The family winery has now made the transition to Certified Organic and Biodynamic grape growing, that richly endows their two Chardonnay vintages: the ’07 Napa Valley ( $47.) and the ’06 Chardonnay Carneros Estate Grown ($75.). Fresh flavor and pleasing acidity, citrus flower and balanced minerality are hallmarks of these wines. See www.grgich.com.
The Carneros district, which encompasses the southern edge of both Sonoma and Napa Valley, is getting respect as an important wine country due to foggy mornings, warm daytime temperatures, the Petaluma winds in the afternoon and is naturally air conditioned with cooler nights from San Pablo Bay. Chardonnay is picked way later in September than most, allowing sugars to develop while keeping a bright acidity.
Dotting the Napa Valley landscape, with an important vineyard in Mendocino, is the Duckhorn Wine Company, a collection of 7 small winery estates co-founded by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn in 1976.
They produce 4 Merlots, 4 Cabernets, a Sauvignon Blanc and a Bordeaux Blend under the Duckhorn and Decoy labels. Other labels include Goldeneye with its lovely Pinor Noir from the Anderson Valley of Mendocino which I have reviewed into my most recent Top Ten Tastes. I was most impressed with the just released 2006 Napa Valley “The Discussion,” an artful blend of varietals from six of their estate vineyards. The composition includes: 53% Cabernet, 28% Merlot, 14% Cab Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. Duckhorn will quickly tell you that this is their highest acclaimed creation, and it’s true! ($115.) Learn more at www.duckhornvineyards.com.
The story of Tamber Bey Vineyards in the Yountville district of Napa Valley is a fascinating review of a high tech professional, who through hard work and perseverance, gets to live out his dream since childhood, raising Arabian horses and making estate wines. It began in 1999 when former Apple executive Barry Waitte bought 60 acres of prime Napa Valley land near Yountville and became a grape farmer. In quick order, he purchased an estate for his residence, as well as acreage for prime cabernet and a set of stables for his endurance racing Arabian horses. In 2003 the Tamber Bey label premiered, named after his two favorite Arabians: Tamborina and Bayamo, and released a Merlot, a Cabernet blend and a Chardonnay. The family of wines has since increased to another blend, Rabicano, and a 100% Cabernet.
“I’m a marketing guy and I was having an incredibly hard time finding a name for the winery,” Barry revealed. “One day Jennifer Nice, my winery manager and horse trainer and I were riding through the vineyards, and she says, why don’t you just call it Tamber Bey with an equestrian theme throughout?” Barry agreed and quickly made a number of horse terms part of the Tamber Bey lexicon.
Tamber Bey was a major player in the annual Wine Auction Week, a charitable event held recently by the Napa Valley Vintners Association. His current 2007 Rabicano, (and my Tamber Bey personal favorite, which made my latest Top Ten Tastes) was a stellar performer in raising a portion of the 8.5 million raised. 375 cases were made, and Barry vows the 2008 edition is going up to 1,000 cases. It sells for $48.
Here’s a real comer to the Napa Valley wine scene and you don’t want to miss it. Find out more at www.tamberbey.com.
Wine Bytes
Canapes in San Marcos hosts a John Hawley Sonoma Winemaker Dinner Tues. July 27 from 6:30 to 8pm. Chardonnay, Pinot Noirs and Zins will be poured paired with Canapes special menu items. $65. each. Limited guests so call 760-510-2088 asap.
Meritage Wine Market in Encinitas is pulling out some great Zinfandels for its Friday Tasting on July 30 from 6 to 8pm. Call 760-479-2500 for price and RSVP.
The WineSellar & Brasserie in San Diego is presenting a Flowers Winery Dinner with winemaker Darren Lowe, Fri. July 30. Reception starts at 6:30pm. Cost is $95. Call for reservations at 858-450-9557
In Temecula Wine Country, Briar Rose Winery has a BBQ and Blues Fundraiser on Sat. July 31 starting at 5:30pm. Four local BBQ entries will be judged as best ribs in town. Tickets are $48. pp. Call 951-308-1098.
Bacchus Wine Market in the Gaslamp downtown San Diego is having another Brown Bag wine event on Sat. July 31, 2 to 9pm. Cost is $15. Of the 8 wines to try, if you are right on 4 of them, you will win a gift. More info at 619-236-0005.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Amaya Grand Del Mar is Garden-Fresh
by Frank Mangio
The Mediterranean splendor that is the Grand Del Mar has been documented in this column and publications world-wide. The decorative arts of Spain , Portugal Italy and Morocco are perfectly in harmony in this resort and this perfection is extended to the richly appointed restaurants.
We were treated the Addison dining room with its 2,500 bottle wine room under the brilliant leadership of Wine Director Jesse Rodriguz, so it was with great anticipation that the invitation came to review the other, more intimate and seductive Amaya with its delightful herb and vegetable garden just steps away.
Amaya was also unveiling its new summer menu, created by Chef Camron Woods and Food/Beverage director Ekrem Tercanoglu, which included: Grilled Swordfish, Roasted Halibut, Seared Seabass, Braised Short Rib and Whole Roasted Pork.
On the subject of his lovely garden of herbs, Camron said “I will use unusual flavors to mix with our marquee Mediterranean cuisine, like an Asian influence Terragon to accent the Sea Bass in Yellow Tomato Sauce. We cultivate freshness at Amaya.” As evidence, we walked into his expertly prepared garden. “Here you will find lots of Basil, Dill, Parsely Oregano, even tomatoes. It’s a feast for the senses with the emphasis on flavor.”Jesse Rodriguez was also in a celebratory mood as he uncorked his latest wines with an Italian theme. He introduced La Cappuccina, Soave 2007, a white from Veneto; and Morrano, Chianti 2007, a red from Tuscany , to pair with the chef’s creations.
Wine Director Jesse Rodriguez, and Chef Camron Woods, Amaya’s personable team at The Grand Del Mar
On Amaya’s terrace next to the herb garden, luscious pastries deserved the finale with such decadence as Carmelized Apricot with Vanilla Cream, Chocolate Royal Hazelnut, and Vanilla Strawberry Panna Cotta. To wash down dessert, a Banfi favorite was served, the Rosso Regale, a delicious strawberry flavored sparkling dessert wine. A perfect 24 hours would be to enjoy Amaya and taste as many of the fine wines as humanly possible; then stay over at one of the 249 rooms at this world-class resort. See more at www.TheGrandDelMar.com.
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa Again Wins Winery of the Year
They’re dancing in the tasting room at South Coast Winery Resort and Spa in Temecula as the fashionable estate has again won the California State Fair “Golden Bear” Wine Competition. It remains at the top of the state’s “Best of the Best” for the second consecutive year. Jim Carter, owner/vintner for South Coast declared “we are proud to share this accomplishment and the attention it has given to the entire Temecula area.”
Winemakers Jon McPherson and Javier Flores have assembled some 650 winning wines since the winery started in 2003. and according to Carter “the best wines are being bottled now.” Get more information at www.wineresort.com.
Wine Bytes
* Vino 100 in San Marcos has the mighty Napa favorite Caymus Wine Tasting Fri. July 24 from 5 to 9pm. Fee starts at $15. Call 760-591-9113.
* Carlsbad Wine Merchants in the Island Center features small Italian Family Vineyards Fri. July 24 from 5 to 8pm. Audio League plays. Fee is $20. Details at 760-804-9994.
* Vine to Glass in Oceanside brings in wines from Wiens in Temecula, Sat. July 25 from 6 to 9pm . Six varietals poured for $15. Call 760-757-1037.
* North County Wine Company has two events coming up, including Fri. July 24 with a Pinot Noir and BBQ tasting and July 31 Nothing but Cabernet and BBQ. Call for times and price at 760-744-2119.
* Bacchus Wine Market in San Diego ’s Gaslamp District pours Grenache wines on Fri. July 24 from 4 to 8:30pm . Get seven samples from the south of France for $15. Call them at 619-236-0005.
* Temecula’s best wines will be unveiled in a gala Awards Ceremony and Banquet open to the public on Wed. July 29, 6pm at Wiens Family Cellars. Competition wines will be served. Mix and mingle with the winemakers. For an RSVP, call 951-926-1160.
* The 5th annual “Chocolate & Vino Affair” happens Thurs. July 30 with a 6pm start at Stingaree, downtown San Diego . It benefits San Diego Big Brothers, Big Sisters. Wineries, downtown restaurants and chocolate shops all donate. Pre sale $40 and $50. at the door. Check it out at 619-339-4564 or events@ypcsd.com.
* Bistro West in Carlsbad has “A Night at the Bistro” Tues. July 28, 7-9pm . An exclusive menu plus Beringer wines will be featured. $55. pp. Contact 760-930-8008 for more.
The Mediterranean splendor that is the Grand Del Mar has been documented in this column and publications world-wide. The decorative arts of Spain , Portugal Italy and Morocco are perfectly in harmony in this resort and this perfection is extended to the richly appointed restaurants.
We were treated the Addison dining room with its 2,500 bottle wine room under the brilliant leadership of Wine Director Jesse Rodriguz, so it was with great anticipation that the invitation came to review the other, more intimate and seductive Amaya with its delightful herb and vegetable garden just steps away.
Amaya was also unveiling its new summer menu, created by Chef Camron Woods and Food/Beverage director Ekrem Tercanoglu, which included: Grilled Swordfish, Roasted Halibut, Seared Seabass, Braised Short Rib and Whole Roasted Pork.
On the subject of his lovely garden of herbs, Camron said “I will use unusual flavors to mix with our marquee Mediterranean cuisine, like an Asian influence Terragon to accent the Sea Bass in Yellow Tomato Sauce. We cultivate freshness at Amaya.” As evidence, we walked into his expertly prepared garden. “Here you will find lots of Basil, Dill, Parsely Oregano, even tomatoes. It’s a feast for the senses with the emphasis on flavor.”Jesse Rodriguez was also in a celebratory mood as he uncorked his latest wines with an Italian theme. He introduced La Cappuccina, Soave 2007, a white from Veneto; and Morrano, Chianti 2007, a red from Tuscany , to pair with the chef’s creations.
Wine Director Jesse Rodriguez, and Chef Camron Woods, Amaya’s personable team at The Grand Del MarOn Amaya’s terrace next to the herb garden, luscious pastries deserved the finale with such decadence as Carmelized Apricot with Vanilla Cream, Chocolate Royal Hazelnut, and Vanilla Strawberry Panna Cotta. To wash down dessert, a Banfi favorite was served, the Rosso Regale, a delicious strawberry flavored sparkling dessert wine. A perfect 24 hours would be to enjoy Amaya and taste as many of the fine wines as humanly possible; then stay over at one of the 249 rooms at this world-class resort. See more at www.TheGrandDelMar.com.
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa Again Wins Winery of the Year
They’re dancing in the tasting room at South Coast Winery Resort and Spa in Temecula as the fashionable estate has again won the California State Fair “Golden Bear” Wine Competition. It remains at the top of the state’s “Best of the Best” for the second consecutive year. Jim Carter, owner/vintner for South Coast declared “we are proud to share this accomplishment and the attention it has given to the entire Temecula area.”
Winemakers Jon McPherson and Javier Flores have assembled some 650 winning wines since the winery started in 2003. and according to Carter “the best wines are being bottled now.” Get more information at www.wineresort.com.
Wine Bytes
* Vino 100 in San Marcos has the mighty Napa favorite Caymus Wine Tasting Fri. July 24 from 5 to 9pm. Fee starts at $15. Call 760-591-9113.
* Carlsbad Wine Merchants in the Island Center features small Italian Family Vineyards Fri. July 24 from 5 to 8pm. Audio League plays. Fee is $20. Details at 760-804-9994.
* Vine to Glass in Oceanside brings in wines from Wiens in Temecula, Sat. July 25 from 6 to 9pm . Six varietals poured for $15. Call 760-757-1037.
* North County Wine Company has two events coming up, including Fri. July 24 with a Pinot Noir and BBQ tasting and July 31 Nothing but Cabernet and BBQ. Call for times and price at 760-744-2119.
* Bacchus Wine Market in San Diego ’s Gaslamp District pours Grenache wines on Fri. July 24 from 4 to 8:30pm . Get seven samples from the south of France for $15. Call them at 619-236-0005.
* Temecula’s best wines will be unveiled in a gala Awards Ceremony and Banquet open to the public on Wed. July 29, 6pm at Wiens Family Cellars. Competition wines will be served. Mix and mingle with the winemakers. For an RSVP, call 951-926-1160.
* The 5th annual “Chocolate & Vino Affair” happens Thurs. July 30 with a 6pm start at Stingaree, downtown San Diego . It benefits San Diego Big Brothers, Big Sisters. Wineries, downtown restaurants and chocolate shops all donate. Pre sale $40 and $50. at the door. Check it out at 619-339-4564 or events@ypcsd.com.
* Bistro West in Carlsbad has “A Night at the Bistro” Tues. July 28, 7-9pm . An exclusive menu plus Beringer wines will be featured. $55. pp. Contact 760-930-8008 for more.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
FESTA Fun Happens in Carlsbad July 11
Photo: Herman Salerno, of Salerno Winery in RamonaThe sights of Italian people and products, the smells of home-style Italian food, the tastes of Italian wines, the sounds of Italian music. It’s the 5th annual FESTA Italiana at the Island Center, Faraday and College in Carlsbad, Saturday July 11 from 10am to 5pm.
This FREE-to-the -public benefit event is presented by the Encinitas Sons of Italy Lodge. Leading the entertainment will be classically trained opera tenor Herman Salerno and his team of singers and players. Authentically costumed Sicilian Dancers will perform the “Tarantella” dance and others. They are a favorite in San Diego’s Balboa Park program.
Salerno is also a leading maker of Italian wines from Ramona and he will team up with Carlsbad Wine Merchants in their shop at the center, for an Italian Wine Tasting event from 11 to 5pm.
The winery is most known for its Petite Sirah which recently won a medal at the San Diego International Wine Competition. His Barbera has recently deserved attention. It’s a “drink now” wine whose grape is from Northen Italy and is easy on the palate. Other Salerno wines to taste in the event will be Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and the proprietary Elegante, blended with Cabernet and Syrah. All wines will be poured inside Carlsbad Wine Merchants. Cost is $10.
In a recent interview Salerno commented, “with Ramona’s special terroir, this area has been recognized with its own official appellation, the Ramona Valley. I get extraordinary depth and character.” He has been making wine some 18 years, uses traditional hand-crafted methods to produce premium wines. For more information, call the winery at 760-788-7160. For details on the FESTA, call 858-537-9878.
Discover Granache
My Top Ten Tastings for the first half of 2009 will be unveiled with the July 5th column and I am picking up my tasting schedule to widen my candidates for this occasion. For a few years now I have admired the French and what they have accomplished in the southern Rhone Valley with Chateau-neuf-du-Pape.
At the same time, a Spanish wine has caught my attention, made in nearby Temecula at La Cereza. It turns out both wines are the product of the Granache grape. (The Spanish call it Garnacha).
Most of the time, it is used as a blending grape and takes a back seat to its big brother in the Rhone, Syrah. But some California winemakers are maximizing this grape into a soulful, splendid solo performer.
That leads me to a special winery in Monterey that makes a 2006 Granache from the Wild Horse Vineyard in Monterey’s back country, Marilyn Remark. Joel and Marilyn Remark tasted many small vineyard French Granache wines before they embarked on their own vibrant style. Theirs is a classic Rhone style varietal, pure and rich. The cost is $45. produced in limited quantity. Access the web for more at www.remarkwine.com
Wine Bytes
WineSellar and Brasserie in the Sorrento Valley of San Diego presents a “Sparklng Affair” on Sat. July 4 from 11:30 to 2pm for $29. pp. 6 sparkling wines with tasting notes offered. Lunch for an added $12.50 ea. RSVP at 858-450-9557.
Wine Street in Carlsbad has famed surfer turned winemaker Robert August appearing with his wines Sat. July 11. On Thurs. July 16, it’s an Italian wine seminar and tasting featuring Gabriella Orlando, specialist on these wines. RSVP and more info by calling 760-431-8455.
The Porto Vista Hotel in Little Italy San Diego and the Off The Vine Club offers two wineries and their new release party Sun. July 12 from 5-8pm. Rooftop views and a 5 course dinner for $45. Details at 760-579-2800.
Santa Barbara has it’s 6th annual California Wine Festival July 16,17 and 18. Events are downtown and at the pier and include top restaurants and wineries, capped by an all-day Sat. event from 11 to 4pm. For more information call 805-637-4411.
In Temecula, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa is hosting a winemakers dinner Sat. July 18 at 6pm. A five course meal paired with perfect wines. Each couple gets a bottle of wine signed by winemaker John McPherson. Cost is $125. pp. Find out more by calling 866-9-WINE.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
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.
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.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Crab is King at Truluck’s
article and photo by Frank Mangio
When a restaurant owns its own fishery and can guarantee freshness for its seafood, focusing on an array of succulent crab, it gets my attention. On top of that accolade, add a wine list that favors the flavor of crab meat and is awarded the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence each year of its existence, and you have the new and exciting Truluck’s at the Aventine at I-5 and La Jolla Village Drive in La Jolla.
The menu showcases the always fresh 100% Stone Crab off the Florida coast. Claws are offered as tiered appetizers, with medium, large and jumbo sizes.
The Crab House menu has a Stone Crab Claw Platter, Dutch Harbor Red King Crab, which was my personal favorite, and fresh steamed Oregon Dungeness Crab. For foodies with the hungries, I would urge them to catch the All-You-Can-Eat Fresh Florida Stone Crab Claws every Monday night.
The congenial General Manager Matt Hunstman describes the essence of Truluck’s as “a high quality crab house that tantalizes the senses with a wine list of over 100 wines by the glass as well as an international array of reds and whites by the bottle.
Server Robert Turner displays the fresh crab choices on the menu at Truluck’s
"We have nine locations and we have a central selection process, but we work hard to get the best of the local wineries represented,” Huntsman said. “We are also proud of our many selections of wine flights with decided themes where our guests can be adventurous. This list is ever-evolving.”
Steaks, chops, chicken and other seafood fill out the rest of the menu and there are wines to bring out the full flavor of each. I chose a cool, crisp white for starters, the Austrian Gruner Veltliner 2007. Next I tried the R. Lopez Rioja Alta 2006, and finally with my Filet Center-Cut, I enhanced it with the Napa Ladera Meritage Red 2005. Truluck’s serves dinner nightly. Its Stone Crab Lounge cocktail hour is from 5 to 7pm. Learn more by visiting www.trulucks.com.
Wine Rating System Needs Updating
I hope you are relying less on wine ratings, those ubiquitous numbers you see at wine shops attributed to a wine critic or magazine. I did a quick count of 90 to 92 ratings and found that they were about the only two or three numbers posted on the supposed 100 point scale of quality. It seems that is the range at which most wines are blessed.
Too often, critics and consumers forget that wine has a living history, carefully crafted for the most part, and subject to personal taste. For instance an Italian wine will taste very different than the same varietal that is made in California.
Wine, at its core, is farming and a single number is not the story of the wine.
I urge indulging in the background of the wine, its terroir( homeland) and the grower’s philosophy of wine making. Use your own rating system, say a simple 1 to 5, with 5 as an excellent! Weigh in the color, smell, taste and finish.
Log in your findings, recording the brand, grape varietal, vintage and price. Learn to extract other information from the label, like alcohol content and winemaking process. Be smart and don’t use a rating number as your only source of choice.
Wine Bytes
The lovely Gondola Wine Cruises at Loews Coronado resume with this year’s premier tastings on Sat. May 23 from 7 to 8:30pm. Guests glide through canals and waterways near the resort in an authentic Venetian gondola as sommelier Kurt Kirschenman presents a tasting flight of six wines and an attractive dessert plate. It is easily the most innovative wine tasting event in San Diego, and a romantic adventure. $45. each. RSVP at 619-429-6317. Access the site at www.gondolacompany.com
Wine Street in Carlsbad presents Robert August, world famous surfer and now wine maker on Wed. May 27 from 6 to 8:30pm. His role in the iconic Endless Summer movie, brought world wide attention to Southern California’s surfing industry. A signature surfing “What I Ride” longboard is being raffled off with the winner named on June 14 at Wine Street. Taste Merlot and Pinot Grigio. $5. pp. Call for details at 760-431-7286.
The 2nd annual San Diego Wine, Cheese and Chocolate Festival is Fri. May 29 from 6 to 9pm at Casa Del Prado Balboa Park, benefiting the Womens History Museum. Enjoy artisan cheese, breads, a chocolatier and swing music with Sue Palmer. Reserve your $30. tickets now at 619-955-8884.
The California Center for the Arts in Escondido is rocking Sat. May 30 from 4 to 10pm as the Bonsall Rotary Club brings you its annual Wine, Brews and Blues Festival. Two stages of dance music, a great international list of wines and beer to taste, 20 local restaurants to sample and a huge silent auction with gifts, trips, wines and much more. Tickets are $60. each. Call 800-249-2024 for advance tickets or pay at the door the night of the event.
When a restaurant owns its own fishery and can guarantee freshness for its seafood, focusing on an array of succulent crab, it gets my attention. On top of that accolade, add a wine list that favors the flavor of crab meat and is awarded the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence each year of its existence, and you have the new and exciting Truluck’s at the Aventine at I-5 and La Jolla Village Drive in La Jolla.
The menu showcases the always fresh 100% Stone Crab off the Florida coast. Claws are offered as tiered appetizers, with medium, large and jumbo sizes.
The Crab House menu has a Stone Crab Claw Platter, Dutch Harbor Red King Crab, which was my personal favorite, and fresh steamed Oregon Dungeness Crab. For foodies with the hungries, I would urge them to catch the All-You-Can-Eat Fresh Florida Stone Crab Claws every Monday night.
The congenial General Manager Matt Hunstman describes the essence of Truluck’s as “a high quality crab house that tantalizes the senses with a wine list of over 100 wines by the glass as well as an international array of reds and whites by the bottle.
Server Robert Turner displays the fresh crab choices on the menu at Truluck’s "We have nine locations and we have a central selection process, but we work hard to get the best of the local wineries represented,” Huntsman said. “We are also proud of our many selections of wine flights with decided themes where our guests can be adventurous. This list is ever-evolving.”
Steaks, chops, chicken and other seafood fill out the rest of the menu and there are wines to bring out the full flavor of each. I chose a cool, crisp white for starters, the Austrian Gruner Veltliner 2007. Next I tried the R. Lopez Rioja Alta 2006, and finally with my Filet Center-Cut, I enhanced it with the Napa Ladera Meritage Red 2005. Truluck’s serves dinner nightly. Its Stone Crab Lounge cocktail hour is from 5 to 7pm. Learn more by visiting www.trulucks.com.
Wine Rating System Needs Updating
I hope you are relying less on wine ratings, those ubiquitous numbers you see at wine shops attributed to a wine critic or magazine. I did a quick count of 90 to 92 ratings and found that they were about the only two or three numbers posted on the supposed 100 point scale of quality. It seems that is the range at which most wines are blessed.
Too often, critics and consumers forget that wine has a living history, carefully crafted for the most part, and subject to personal taste. For instance an Italian wine will taste very different than the same varietal that is made in California.
Wine, at its core, is farming and a single number is not the story of the wine.
I urge indulging in the background of the wine, its terroir( homeland) and the grower’s philosophy of wine making. Use your own rating system, say a simple 1 to 5, with 5 as an excellent! Weigh in the color, smell, taste and finish.
Log in your findings, recording the brand, grape varietal, vintage and price. Learn to extract other information from the label, like alcohol content and winemaking process. Be smart and don’t use a rating number as your only source of choice.
Wine Bytes
The lovely Gondola Wine Cruises at Loews Coronado resume with this year’s premier tastings on Sat. May 23 from 7 to 8:30pm. Guests glide through canals and waterways near the resort in an authentic Venetian gondola as sommelier Kurt Kirschenman presents a tasting flight of six wines and an attractive dessert plate. It is easily the most innovative wine tasting event in San Diego, and a romantic adventure. $45. each. RSVP at 619-429-6317. Access the site at www.gondolacompany.com
Wine Street in Carlsbad presents Robert August, world famous surfer and now wine maker on Wed. May 27 from 6 to 8:30pm. His role in the iconic Endless Summer movie, brought world wide attention to Southern California’s surfing industry. A signature surfing “What I Ride” longboard is being raffled off with the winner named on June 14 at Wine Street. Taste Merlot and Pinot Grigio. $5. pp. Call for details at 760-431-7286.
The 2nd annual San Diego Wine, Cheese and Chocolate Festival is Fri. May 29 from 6 to 9pm at Casa Del Prado Balboa Park, benefiting the Womens History Museum. Enjoy artisan cheese, breads, a chocolatier and swing music with Sue Palmer. Reserve your $30. tickets now at 619-955-8884.
The California Center for the Arts in Escondido is rocking Sat. May 30 from 4 to 10pm as the Bonsall Rotary Club brings you its annual Wine, Brews and Blues Festival. Two stages of dance music, a great international list of wines and beer to taste, 20 local restaurants to sample and a huge silent auction with gifts, trips, wines and much more. Tickets are $60. each. Call 800-249-2024 for advance tickets or pay at the door the night of the event.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Mother's Day 2009 in Temecula Valley Wine Country
This weekend make plans for a special Mother's Day in Wine Country. Pick from several venues, each offering a unique package of wine and food.
On the day before Mother’s Day, Callaway Vineyard & Winery will give mom a chance to relax, sip and shop as it hosts A Treat for Mom "Time Out" Tasting. Seatings are at 12, 2 and 4 p.m. and include the first release of the winery’s dry Rosé of Sangiovese, sparkling Bella Rosé and Nebbiolo Bello. It all comes with a chocolate dipped strawberry, a pink rose and a souvenir wine glass.Cost: $20.
Falkner Winery will hold a Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch at Pinnacle restaurant on May 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. All food will be prepared by new Executive Chef Gianni Ciciliot. Live entertainment will be provided. Cost is $54.95 per person; children 6-12 are $24.50; children under 6 free.
Ponte Family Estate Winery from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. is hosting its 6th annual Mother's Day Brunch, which features breakfast favorites, seafood and desserts and an open bar with Ponte wines, mimosas, bellinis, and the Smokehouse Restaurant's famous sangria. Seatings are on the hour. Cost: $70 per adult; $30.50 for children.
A Mother's Day Luncheon at Wilson Creek includes numerous buffet stations, mimosas, almond champagne and sangria, indoor seating and live entertainment. Cost: $70 per person; children $34.
Mother's Day Brunch at Thornton Winery includes a fabulous three-course menu. Cost: $49.95 for adults; $19.95 children 6 to 12; children under five, free.
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa will host a Mother’s Day Brunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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Can't Take Mom to Wine Country this Mother's Day? Then Send Wine Country to Mom! (Click One of The Moms)
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On the day before Mother’s Day, Callaway Vineyard & Winery will give mom a chance to relax, sip and shop as it hosts A Treat for Mom "Time Out" Tasting. Seatings are at 12, 2 and 4 p.m. and include the first release of the winery’s dry Rosé of Sangiovese, sparkling Bella Rosé and Nebbiolo Bello. It all comes with a chocolate dipped strawberry, a pink rose and a souvenir wine glass.Cost: $20.
Falkner Winery will hold a Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch at Pinnacle restaurant on May 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. All food will be prepared by new Executive Chef Gianni Ciciliot. Live entertainment will be provided. Cost is $54.95 per person; children 6-12 are $24.50; children under 6 free.
Ponte Family Estate Winery from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. is hosting its 6th annual Mother's Day Brunch, which features breakfast favorites, seafood and desserts and an open bar with Ponte wines, mimosas, bellinis, and the Smokehouse Restaurant's famous sangria. Seatings are on the hour. Cost: $70 per adult; $30.50 for children.
A Mother's Day Luncheon at Wilson Creek includes numerous buffet stations, mimosas, almond champagne and sangria, indoor seating and live entertainment. Cost: $70 per person; children $34.
Mother's Day Brunch at Thornton Winery includes a fabulous three-course menu. Cost: $49.95 for adults; $19.95 children 6 to 12; children under five, free.
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa will host a Mother’s Day Brunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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Can't Take Mom to Wine Country this Mother's Day? Then Send Wine Country to Mom! (Click One of The Moms)
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Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Best Wine/Dine Value in Vegas
Sure it’s a tough economy and no tougher than for the upscale restaurant business. I get an outpouring of e mails and coupons promoting special pricing and credits to attract the shrinking consumer discretionary dollar.
Many of these restaurants tell me “the bar is keeping us alive,” and that’s where a lot of the deals and “small-portion with wine flights” marketing is going.
Wine/dine linkups are an added value restaurant perk not to be missed.
No better example of this strategy is the “Las Vegas Strip,” and the palatial newer hotels: Wynn Resorts and Encore, the side-by-side gleaming beauties built by Steve Wynn; and Palazzo and the five diamond Venetian, owned by Sheldon Adelson. I wanted to find out how a well-known dining establishment of some 10 years is able to hold its own with the newcomers, so I called on The Venetian’s Canaletto, the largest restaurant at the hotel.
Canaletto is part of the Il Fornaio chain and has an old world sophisticated charm about it. It is a favorite of the Hollywood set, with recent guests that included Sean Connery and Goldie Hawn. The view from some window tables is that of the Venetian’s Grand Canal and St. Mark’s Square. Multiple small dining rooms, with old world décor, enhance the Italian experience.
Senior Chef Paolo Pittia, Taste of Wine columnist FrankMangio and Darren Chini, assistant General Manager of Canaletto, tasting a bottle of Machiavelli 2003 Chianti Classico.
I asked how business was after all the stories that Las Vegas has endured a severe drop in tourism. Chef Pittia, who was carefully crafting a wine/food pairing of popular elements of the “primi” portion of the menu, answered that “Canaletto gets better with age, just like good wine. We provide a reasonably priced home-made menu with old world Italian artistry.” Indeed the two menu items: Risotto Funghi with oysters, mushrooms and beef tenderloin, and the Gnocchi Castra with potato dumplings, lamb ragu, pecorino cheese and red wine, both matched up remarkably with the Machievelli 2003 Chianto Classico.
“This is the atmosphere of Venice like nowhere else in the world except for the city itself,” declared Darren Chini, the on-duty manager. “Please tell your readers we have just opened the newest Canaletto in Newport Beach at Fashion Island in Southern California.”
By keeping the quality consistently high along with surprisingly reasonable pricing for such a spectacular location, Caneletto is not only surviving, it’s thriving as the Venetian experience.
For a special occasion, consider the selection of four complete group menus, all artfully blended in five courses, from “anti pasti” (appetizers) to “dolci”(dessert).
There is more to the story and you can get it at www.ilfornaio.com.
German Rieslings Flourish in the New World
Warm weather is just about here, so it isn’t too soon to begin the search for the ultimate cool-down white wine that still tastes like wine. Many of the refreshing thirst-quenching whites are just pale images of their heavier bodied cousins, like Chardonnay and Viognier.
For a garden variety white that makes a statement, I go to a few favorite varietals, and Riesling is at the top of my list. Riesling is the national wine of Germany.
It's Mosel-Saar-Ruwer region has the steepest vineyards in the world along the Mosel River which cuts through the German hillsides until it gets to the Rhine River near the town of Koblenz. Climate conditions are rough on the grapes as it is the most northern of the growing grounds in Germany, so most vineyards are planted facing south. The Riesling is a naturally sweet grape with its own mineral taste. Alcohol content is a low 8 to 12%.
If you are looking for a German native Riesling, look no further than Dr. Loosen with its citrus flavor accenting the stone and slate sleekness that has made this name famous. Closer to home, Chateau St. Michelle and Dr. Loosen collaborated to fashion a “new world” Riesling from western Washington’s Columbia Valley which is the envy of most old world types.
The wine, Eroica, named for Beethoven’s 3rd Symphony, has Germany’s Ernst Loosen and St. Michelle winemaker Bob Bertheau creating a best-of-class example of top shelf Riesling at a winery price of $25. for the 2007.
An even more exciting piece of Riesling news is the success of Falkner Winery in Temecula with its 2007 Riesling. It took a gold medal in the most recent San Francisco Chronicle wine competition. Price is just $16.95. Find out more at
www.falknerwinery.com.
Wine Bytes
A BBQ and blessing of the vines will take place at South Coast Winery Resort and Spa Sun. Apr. 19 from 4pm to 7pm. Live jazz music accompanies. Take the processional tour through the vines. $40. pp. RSVP a must at 951-587-9463 ext. 7210.
San Diego Wine Company on Miramar Rd. will be offering their Top Ten Tastings for under $10. Sat. Apr. 25 from 11 – 4:30pm. Cost is just $5. Find out more at 858-586-WINE.
A music and wine festival in North San Diego County featuring a Neil Diamond tribute band, great wines, silent auction and culinary stars is on for Sat. Apr. 25 from 6 to 9 pm at North County Fair Shopping Center in Escondido. Cost is $75. and it benefits the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego. At last count there were 50 wineries and 30 restaurants committed. Optional VIP favors available. Call 858-578-9463 for tickets. Or visit www.rhythmandvine.org.
Wine Vault near Little Italy in San Diego presents an Andrew Geoffrey Winery 6 year “vertical” with a 6 course dinner Sun. Apr. 26 Reception at 4pm with dinner at 5pm. $59.50 pp. Call for RSVP at 619-295-3939.
The Palmina Winery of Santa Barbara County and its winemaker owners will be spotlighted at Vivace at Four Seasons Resort Aviara on Fri. May 1 starting at 6:30pm. Palmina celebrates the Italian style of rustic small lot winemaking and food. Five course dinner by Chef Bryant Wigger. $85. ea. Phone 760-603-3773 for your RSVP.
Many of these restaurants tell me “the bar is keeping us alive,” and that’s where a lot of the deals and “small-portion with wine flights” marketing is going.
Wine/dine linkups are an added value restaurant perk not to be missed.
No better example of this strategy is the “Las Vegas Strip,” and the palatial newer hotels: Wynn Resorts and Encore, the side-by-side gleaming beauties built by Steve Wynn; and Palazzo and the five diamond Venetian, owned by Sheldon Adelson. I wanted to find out how a well-known dining establishment of some 10 years is able to hold its own with the newcomers, so I called on The Venetian’s Canaletto, the largest restaurant at the hotel.
Canaletto is part of the Il Fornaio chain and has an old world sophisticated charm about it. It is a favorite of the Hollywood set, with recent guests that included Sean Connery and Goldie Hawn. The view from some window tables is that of the Venetian’s Grand Canal and St. Mark’s Square. Multiple small dining rooms, with old world décor, enhance the Italian experience.
Senior Chef Paolo Pittia, Taste of Wine columnist FrankMangio and Darren Chini, assistant General Manager of Canaletto, tasting a bottle of Machiavelli 2003 Chianti Classico.
I asked how business was after all the stories that Las Vegas has endured a severe drop in tourism. Chef Pittia, who was carefully crafting a wine/food pairing of popular elements of the “primi” portion of the menu, answered that “Canaletto gets better with age, just like good wine. We provide a reasonably priced home-made menu with old world Italian artistry.” Indeed the two menu items: Risotto Funghi with oysters, mushrooms and beef tenderloin, and the Gnocchi Castra with potato dumplings, lamb ragu, pecorino cheese and red wine, both matched up remarkably with the Machievelli 2003 Chianto Classico.
“This is the atmosphere of Venice like nowhere else in the world except for the city itself,” declared Darren Chini, the on-duty manager. “Please tell your readers we have just opened the newest Canaletto in Newport Beach at Fashion Island in Southern California.”
By keeping the quality consistently high along with surprisingly reasonable pricing for such a spectacular location, Caneletto is not only surviving, it’s thriving as the Venetian experience.
For a special occasion, consider the selection of four complete group menus, all artfully blended in five courses, from “anti pasti” (appetizers) to “dolci”(dessert).
There is more to the story and you can get it at www.ilfornaio.com.
German Rieslings Flourish in the New World
Warm weather is just about here, so it isn’t too soon to begin the search for the ultimate cool-down white wine that still tastes like wine. Many of the refreshing thirst-quenching whites are just pale images of their heavier bodied cousins, like Chardonnay and Viognier.
For a garden variety white that makes a statement, I go to a few favorite varietals, and Riesling is at the top of my list. Riesling is the national wine of Germany.
It's Mosel-Saar-Ruwer region has the steepest vineyards in the world along the Mosel River which cuts through the German hillsides until it gets to the Rhine River near the town of Koblenz. Climate conditions are rough on the grapes as it is the most northern of the growing grounds in Germany, so most vineyards are planted facing south. The Riesling is a naturally sweet grape with its own mineral taste. Alcohol content is a low 8 to 12%.
If you are looking for a German native Riesling, look no further than Dr. Loosen with its citrus flavor accenting the stone and slate sleekness that has made this name famous. Closer to home, Chateau St. Michelle and Dr. Loosen collaborated to fashion a “new world” Riesling from western Washington’s Columbia Valley which is the envy of most old world types.
The wine, Eroica, named for Beethoven’s 3rd Symphony, has Germany’s Ernst Loosen and St. Michelle winemaker Bob Bertheau creating a best-of-class example of top shelf Riesling at a winery price of $25. for the 2007.
An even more exciting piece of Riesling news is the success of Falkner Winery in Temecula with its 2007 Riesling. It took a gold medal in the most recent San Francisco Chronicle wine competition. Price is just $16.95. Find out more at
www.falknerwinery.com.
Wine Bytes
A BBQ and blessing of the vines will take place at South Coast Winery Resort and Spa Sun. Apr. 19 from 4pm to 7pm. Live jazz music accompanies. Take the processional tour through the vines. $40. pp. RSVP a must at 951-587-9463 ext. 7210.
San Diego Wine Company on Miramar Rd. will be offering their Top Ten Tastings for under $10. Sat. Apr. 25 from 11 – 4:30pm. Cost is just $5. Find out more at 858-586-WINE.
A music and wine festival in North San Diego County featuring a Neil Diamond tribute band, great wines, silent auction and culinary stars is on for Sat. Apr. 25 from 6 to 9 pm at North County Fair Shopping Center in Escondido. Cost is $75. and it benefits the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego. At last count there were 50 wineries and 30 restaurants committed. Optional VIP favors available. Call 858-578-9463 for tickets. Or visit www.rhythmandvine.org.
Wine Vault near Little Italy in San Diego presents an Andrew Geoffrey Winery 6 year “vertical” with a 6 course dinner Sun. Apr. 26 Reception at 4pm with dinner at 5pm. $59.50 pp. Call for RSVP at 619-295-3939.
The Palmina Winery of Santa Barbara County and its winemaker owners will be spotlighted at Vivace at Four Seasons Resort Aviara on Fri. May 1 starting at 6:30pm. Palmina celebrates the Italian style of rustic small lot winemaking and food. Five course dinner by Chef Bryant Wigger. $85. ea. Phone 760-603-3773 for your RSVP.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Host Your Own Wine Tasting Party
by Frank Mangio
Thinking about a wine tasting to spice up your fall social season? It’s guaranteed to raise your standing as party planner. My “local sip” section is burgeoning with places to go to kick up your taste buds and enjoy conversation on wines. But chances are you can name a dozen or so friends that would love to gather and taste your choices.
Here are some some suggestions to help you in creating a memorable time.
Choose 10 to 12 couples for the tasting to keep control of the tasting and enhance conversation about what they are tasting.
Make a contest out of it. I would suggest a blind tasting (cover the bottles up to the top with a bag) of about 7 to 10 different wines from various parts of the world.
Make an attractive invitation, informing your guests what they will be doing, what areas the wines come from and a brief description of the wines. Their goal will be to match the description with the actual wine bottle tasted, which has a number on it. I always enjoy offering bottles of wine used in the tasting, as prizes for most correct choices. Each guest gets a form with this information on it when the tasting contest begins.
The host should supply appetizers before the tasting and mild cheese and crackers between tastings plus a container and water for cleaning glasses.
When all the guests have gone through the bottles and marked their choices, as host you need to gather the forms and score the entries which should have the names of the “contestants” somewhere on their forms.
When the winners are announced, be sure to give the forms back to your guests so they can go through and note how they did and what wines were their favorites.
The fun keeps going when the wines are revealed. The only thing red wines from districts as widespread as Napa and Australia have in common is the color. When they are tasted side by side, the distinctive qualities of the wines are revealed for all to compare and debate. I prefer to choose wines that range in price from inexpensive (about $10.), to middle priced (about $70.). Some typical varietals to include are: merlot, cabernet sauvignon, sangiovese, syrah, grenache, malbec, zinfandel, pinot noir and malbec.
You might want to explore others, or place a syrah and an Australian shiraz in the same tasting (they are the same grape, but do taste distinctly different due to geographic differences). A blend or meritage can be used but these are difficult to identify due to several grapes combined in the bottle. So start planning, and put your own creativity to work. The result is always a fun party.
Lovely Wines to Add to your List
Wine never ceases to amaze me with the number of wonderful varietals and vintages that out there waiting to be discovered. The following examples typify the rewards that await the patient wine lover:
Wilson Creek Estate Zinfandel 2005, Temecula Valley. $34.95. Beautifully crafted from aged gnarled vines with deep cherry and plum flavors. Captures the essence of superior Zin. www.wilsoncreekwinery.com.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Chardonnay 2005, Columbia Valley Washington. $13. Warmed and nurtured by the intense, long sunny days of Northern Washington. Rich and ripe with tropical flavors. www.ste-michelle.com.
Thornton “Thorny’s” Cote Red Blend 2005, Temecula Valley. $14. Bright, cheery blend of 62% Syrah, 22% Barbera, 11% Sangiovese and 5% Grenache. You will be in delicious wine heavan with this marriage of Rhone Valley and Italian varietals. www.thortonwine.com.
Villa Antinori Chianti Classico Reserve 2000, Tuscany Italy. Price varies. The 2005 is now released and its price is about $20. I laid the 2000 down 5 years ago and opened it recently to taste its aged vintage.It was remarkably beautiful as the terroir opened up with breathtaking detail. Silken minerality, earth characteristics that was of an Italian opera…truly music to the taste buds. This wine is truly one I can recommend you store for 5 to 7 years.
The Local Sip (San Diego and Temecula)
Savory Casual Fare in Encinitas presents their first winemaker’s dinner on Thurs. Oct. 9 starting at 6:30pm, featuring Duffy Keys “B” Cellars of Napa Valley. Four courses with some beautiful blends. $75. pp. Call 760-634-5556 for an RSVP.
Carlsbad Wine Merchants is bringing in Opolo Wines, a real taste treat, on Fri. Oct. 10 beginning at 5pm. Fee $20. ea. One of the best from the west side of Paso Robles. Call 760-804-9994.
Vine to Glass in Oceanside has a new menu of wines and is promoting “red wine and your health.” New selections include: Santino Zinfandel, Justin Cab and a by-the-glass special on Felsina Rancia Classico Reserva, a personal favorite. Call 760-757-1037.
Robert Renzoni Vineyard in Temecula is presenting a Columbus Day party Sun. Oct. 12 from 1 to 5pm. Complimentary glass of wine, music, dancing food and fun, plus 30% discount on all wines. $30. in advance, $35. at the door. 951-302-VINO for details.
Belle Marie Winery in Escondido has their next winemaker’s dinner in their Chateau Wine Cave on Sat. Oct. 18 at 6pm. “A Tuscan Feast” will feature cuisine from that area paired with premium Italian wines. MC will be owner Mick Dragoo, an expert on the Italian terroir. $89. pp. RSVP at 760-796-7557.
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