Big Red Fest on the De Portola Trail

by Frank Mangio
Have you seen and tasted wine on the De Portola Trail these days? It’s a compelling experience. With the recent opening of Fazeli Cellars and the new ownership of Masia de la Vinya by the current owner of Danza del Sol, the winery count is now 10 with an increasing visitor population that  likes the “elbow room” and scenic vistas that the De Portola Road wineries provide.

The trail is part of the Temecula Valley wine country, winding south of the main body of wineries. Most of these DePortola owners have sunk lots of improvement money into their properties and most importantly, the wines are vastly improved. Owners like Robert Renzoni  understood early that a complete wine experience was crucial, so he set about to make fine Mediterranean style wines with lots of choices, from Tuscan Sangiovese to the complex star-quality Sonata, which matches The Italian Super Tuscans. After years of crucial funding searches during the great recession, a state of the art tasting room was buit, with indoor-outdoor amenities second to none. An Italian style bistro serves an authentic old-world menu (try the pizzas…meats and cheeses direct from Italy !)  Lots of live entertainment, even a bocce court.

We have documented the newest wine attractions, Fazeli Cellars, next door to Robert Renzoni and the exciting CAVE produced by Oak Mountain Winery a few blocks up the road.  I stopped in to see Christina and Ken Gershon of Gershon Bachus Vintners in the same neighborhood as the others. The winery produces 12 varietals of wines, and none are released less than 5 years old.  The Gershons have been owners for some 10 years and were pouring wines like a 2010 Zinfandel ($45.) and a 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon ($59.). These wines  are in limited production offering the highest quality possible. The cab received 93 points in Wine Enthusiast.

I asked Gershon what he has observed about this wine region over the last 10 years.  “We weren’t wine people. We came from L.A. to build a house for weekends. One thing led to another and it became a winery.  First few years we found out this was not Cabernet country like Napa Valley. But over time and maturity in the vineyards., even the cabs are so much better now.  Our biggest challenge is marketing, getting the word out about this valley. Most of the media think we’re a party valley and don’t take our wines seriously.  We want visitors who enjoy the wines.  We’re pooling our resources and linkng up to make it easier to visit.  We’re really pleased to see that this Big Red event has brought a lot of new people to our wineries.”  Visit their website at deportolawinetrail.com.

Big Time Wins for South Coast Winery
The 2016 Pacific Rim International Wine Competion is in the books and Temecula Valley ’s long-time winning winery South Coast Winery Resort & Spa has done it again.  Their talented wine team of winemaker Javier Flores and Master Winemaker Jon McPherson brought home the Grand Champion Best Red Wine award with a 2014 Mourvedre ($14.) among other honors.  This wine is classic red cherry fruit and a Rhone Valley French favorite.  I have walked the vineyards with these two winemakers who are veteran Temecula Valley  creators, who have aways kept up with the changing trends in wine production. Other winners were the 2015 Verdelho and the 2014 Muscat of Alexandria. Other Temecula wineries that did well included: Thornton, Callaway, Falkner, Maurice Carrie and Hart Winery.  For more, go to southcoastwinery.com.

Paso Robles Wine Country Levels the Playing Field For California Cabernet

by Frank Mangio
It’s been a well deserved 50 some years of Napa Valley excellence in growing and producing California ’s finest, Cabernet Sauvignon.  Some would go further and say the world’s finest Cabernet Sauvignon.  In the 60’s, just 25 Napa wineries were operating, and now there are over 400 and land can be over $500,000. an acre.

Daniel Daou has led the charge for Cabernet quality in Paso Robles with
a collaborative association, the Cab Collective.

While Napa  was solidifying its position as the premium Cab country in California, a pocket of this state, between  San Francisco and Santa Barbara , was slowly gathering momentum from key owners, emigrating from other lands and careers.  Paso Robles was harvesting quality wines, first in the 70’s with Gary Eberle and his Syrahs and Cabs, then in the 80’s with Ken Volk and Jerry Lohr with a distinctly Rhone Valley French footprint.

As Paso was examined by more interested wine investors, it became clear that this vast area of some 32,000 acres could be not only a growing grounds for Rhone style wines, but, despite the occasional drawback of heat, a potential garden for Cabernet Sauvignon, the core varietal for the great Bordeaux style of winemaking. My first taste of Paso was with Justin Vineyards and Winery. With its high elevation off Highway 46 close to the coast, it is a natural for the Bordeaux style of Cabernet, mirrored by the venerable star of the winery, Isosceles, popular since the 80’s. ($70)

Fast forward to 2007, when the Daou brothers, Daniel and Georges, after whirlwind fast-track success in technology, purchased and settled into the highest elevation vineyard in the area at 2,200 feet, and a maker of Cabernet.  Their French background and compelling love for Cabernet, pointed the way for their goal of making the best Cabernet in California .

In 2012, the Cab Collective was formed to market the trend. In a recent issue of Wine Spectator, Daniel Daou predicted that “I believe I can make Cabernet here to compete with wine from anywhere in the world. My heart is with Cabernet.  Its complex, structured, it ages and I love the taste of it.”

His 180 acres under vine has produced Daou’s best harvest ever in 2013.  The Daou 2011 Reserve Cabernet scored 95 points in Tasting Panel Magazine. ($53.)  Other Paso Cabs of note that I have tasted and recommend include:  Adelaida Cab Reserve 2011 ($75.), Hunt Cellars Cab 2009. ($75.), Jada Passing By Blend 2011. ($46.), J. Lohr Cuvee 2010. ($50.) and Chateau Margene Cab 2011. ($72)  For more visit www.pasoroblesCAB.com.

Cab Collective at Vin Diego
The major all-wine event in San Diego is Vin Diego, coming Friday April 4 and Sat. April 5 to Liberty Station in San Diego ’s Pt. Loma, the first appearance by the Cab Collective in this town.
Producer David Raschetti is welcoming the group with a panel discussion

The 2nd annual Vin Diego is in San Diego Friday and Saturday April 4th and 5th
with 75 all west coast wineries and some 300 wines.

Friday the 4th from 1:30 to 3pm.  Other Friday events include:  the Pinot All Stars from California and Oregon from 12 Noon to 1:15pm, and a Special Sunset Rare and Reserve Tasting from 6 to 7:30pm. Saturday is the Grand Tasting Event with VIP from 3 to 7pm and General Admission from 4 to 7pm.

Raschetti is amazed by the enthusiasm of the wine community for this 2nd annual show. “Wineries love this format. It’s all about wine.  We went from 40 wineries to 75 this year. The word is out.  They love this show. It gives them a better opportunity to present their wine flavors.
The large, plush conference rooms and patio areas are the best in town for this kind of show.” Prices vary and start with $60. each  for the Friday afternoon conferences and tastings.  Get the full story and tickets at www.vindiego.com.

Wine Bytes
North County Wine Company pours 7 delicious wines in its “rookie” event Fri. March 28 from 4 to 10pm in San Marcos .  Cost is $15. including appetizers.  Big name wines like King Estates, Rombauer and Niner.  Call 760-744-2119.

Vigilucci’s Seafood and Steakhouse in Carlsbad presents Antinori Italian wines and a classic Italian dinner Sat. March 29 at 6:30pm.   $120. pp. RSVP at 760-434-2580.

South Coast Winery in Temecula brings you its 10th annual Blessing of the Vines Wine & Music Festival, Sun. March 30 from 4 to 7pm.  Plenty of great food and Latin jazz for dancing. $45. pp. RSVP at 800-539.1375 x 7234.

Park Hyatt Aviara Carlsbad  has a Cakebread wine dinner Thurs. Apr. 3 from 6 to 9pm.  Cost is $130.  RSVP at 760-448-1234 x 6011.

Big Gains for Temecula Wine Country

It fits that the next big event for Temecula Wine Country is the Harvest Celebration November 2^nd and 3^rd.  Temecula is harvesting some big awards these days. From the California State Fairs to New York,Florida and London England, Temecula’s wines are boldly mixing it up with the Northern California establishment and are coming up winners.

An exclamation point was the excitement of two Temecula winemakers making the top 100 winemakers list in theU.S.  out of some 7,000. That distinction belongs to Joe Hart of Hart Winery, with over 30 years of winemaking, and  Jon McPherson of South Coast Winery, again named California Winery of the Year at the California State Fair.

Sorting through this success is no simple matter.  In 1968 there was only one commercial vineyard, established by Vincenzo and Audrey Cilurzo.  Callaway began farming grapes in 1969, then opened the first winery in 1974.  Within recent years, the winery population has fast-forward ahead to some 35, spread out over 33,000 acres, with 5,000 more acres protected as agriculture by Riverside County.

Temecula Valley Wine Country proclaims itself as Southern California’s Wine Country and indeed, sitting central to San Diego,Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, it is. 

At the helm of all this big picture change is the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association, with Peggy Evans, Executive Director, Cori Cocca, Marketing Communications and Krista Chaich, Sales and Membership.  We spoke to Evans, who has been with the association for 5 years and who is orchestrating the sensational growth.

TOW:  How long have you been working with wine in the valley?

Evans: I came to work in wine country in 1989, first for what is now Thornton Winery. After Thornton Winery, I went to Callaway in 1996 and stayed there for 10 years.  In 1989 there were only 8 wineries in Temecula and a lot of dirt roads.

TOW:  It seems like only recently that the fast growth has come.  What do you think brought this on?

Evens: The big thing for Temecula’s future is the population base inSouthern California.  We have 22 million people in 5 counties, only an hour or so from our front door.  Because of this and other reasons, people are looking to get into the wine business and we’re attracting long term investors who are building a name for themselves.

TOW:  Are there some wine varietals, or maybe one, that best expresses the area.

Evans:  Temecula went from the market-following Chardonnay and Cabernet, to many Italian, French Rhone and Spanish inspired varietals.  But we don’t want to put ourselves in a box.  We can grow everything here.  Lately we’ve been very excited about the tasting results of Malbec.

TOW:  What keeps you up at night?

Evans:  I think a lot about how to control the growth and make it of the highest quality.  Our primary purpose is wine making and we want to make it the best experience possible for our visitors.

Temecula Valley Wine Country’s next event is the Harvest Celebration, Sat. Nov.2 and Sun. Nov. 3 from 10 to 4:30pm.  Visitors can go to 35 member wineries for a self-guided tour, taste food and wine samplings at each stop, as well as exclusive barrel and tank samplings.  Prices start at $79. for Sun./locals. See www.temeculawines.org.  You can also call 800-801-WINE.

Wine Bytes

• A Temecula Haunted Winery Tour is being staged at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, Sat. Oct. 26 through Thurs. Oct. 31 from4:30 to 5:30pm.  This walking tour gets up close with “ghouls and goblins” in the vineyard, then in the winery.  Cost is $45. pp.  Call 951-587-9463.
• A Harvest Dinner with winemaker Craig Larson & Executive Chef Mike Henry is planned at Callaway Winery, Sat. Oct. 26, 6:30 to 9:30pm. This unique wine & 5 course culinary feast is $120 ea. RSVP at 951-676-4001.
• Gen 7 Wines is celebrating its Fall Release Party, Sun. Oct. 27, at1pm in Rancho Santa Fe.  5 courses of cuisine are paired with GEN 7’s 5 new wines.  $65. before the date, $75. at the door.  Visit Gen7Wines.com.
• Vigilucci’s Restaurant in Coronado has an Italian Wine Tasting, Fri. Nov. 1 from 5:30 to 7:30pm.  Featured wines are from Feudi di San Gregorio, this years’ winery of the year in Italy.  Cost is $25.  RSVP at 619-522-0946.
• The Ramona Art & Wine Benefit Festival is Sat. Nov. 2 from Noonto 6pm, at the Mt. Woodson Castle.  Fine art, live music, Ramona wines, chef’s small bites, and a live auction of painted wine barrels.  $60. pp.  Visit RamonaArtandWineFest.net, or call 760-787-1102.

Temecula Becoming Wine & Music Center

by Frank Mangio

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tripping Around the Romance of Temecula Wines

by Frank Mangio
The stars are aligned for a banner year in Temecula Wine Country this year. My in-box is full of exciting developments for most of the 35+ wineries that are anticipating an overwhelming public response to their ambitious programs of improvement offering more tastings, tours, dining, lodging and event activity. In a recent interview with Jim Carter, owner of the renowned South Coast Winery Resort and Spa, TASTE OF WINE learned that Carter plans to build a new winery, Carter Estates.

TASTE OF WINE columnist Frank Mangio exclusively interviews winery owner Jim Carter, who revealed ambitious plans for expansion in Temecula Wine Country.

It will be part of a much bigger resort, winery, spa, office and meeting space.  The existing property will be offering new hotel space in March.  “We have 50 new all-suite rooms in a three story structure with units from 538 to 850 square feet.  Each suite will have a fireplace, soothing tub and lanai deck in the vineyards,” he said.  “It will include a rooftop garden for receptions and banquets.”

South Coast produces 65,000 cases of wine annually and has now topped 1,800 medals with the 2013 wine competition results, one of the highest in the nation.

A short drive beyond Jim Carter’s winery on Rancho California Road, up on a hill, sits Monte De Oro. It has a spectacular 180 degree panoramic view, lavish all-stone exterior, glass floor overlook to a barrel room and premium wines.  Monte De Oro electrified the wine world by winning the Best of Class, Red Blend at the 2013 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition with its 2008 Synergy 65, a five varietal estate grown wine.  This wine earned the TASTE OF WINE February Wine of the Month. $32. at the winery. Club price $26.40.

 Monte De Oro General Manager Ken Zignorski guides the ambitious premium estate vineyard 

and winery program, since its introduction in 2010.

Robert Renzoni Vineyards is taking the wraps off the new Robert Renzoni Prosecco coming in direct from Italy. They delighted their wine club recently with their brand of Brunello, one of Tuscany’s finest reds and will introduce the latest vintage in mid-February along with the latest Sonata Blend, a big seller at the Italian style winery on De Portola Road.

The Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association has its next wine country event Sat. March 2 and Sun. March 3 from 10am to 4:30pm.  It’s the World of Wine (WoW) 2013.  Visitors will be able to barrel taste the latest old world style wines that are locally made.  Some 30+ wineries will offer food and wine samplings. This is a self-guided event. Two day tickets are $99. per person.  Full details are yours at www.temeculawines.org.

Wine Bytes
Valentines Day events in Temecula are blooming and here are some that crossed my “Bytes” desk.
Thornton Winery is presenting its Romantic Rendezvous Thurs. Feb. 14 at 7pm with an array of fine cuisine and matching Thornton wines.  $90. pp.  There is also an optional choice of menu items at Café Champagne from 5 to 9pm.  Reservations for both by calling 951-699-0099.

Callaway Winery has a Vine d’Amore Valentines Day dinner Sat. Feb. 9 from 6:30 to 9:30pm held in the Barrel Room. Live entertainment with dinner and Callaway wines. $216. per couple inclusive.  $195. for wine club.

It also has a Pre Fixe menu at Meritage Restaurant on Valentines Day at 5:30 and 7pm, for $75. ea.  To reserve either event, call 951-587-8889.

Falkner Winery will host a romantic dinner  on Valentines Day at its Pinnacle Restaurant.  A 4 course meal with wine pairings is planned with live entertainment.  A single seating starts at 6:30pm.  Cost is $79. pp.  VIP Food/Wine Club members pay $69. For an RSVP call the winery at 951-676-8231 x1.

Monte De Oro Winery has its Valentines Day 4 course dinner with wine pairing at 7pm. A feature will be live music and dancing.  Salmon and Filet Mignon top the menu.  RSVP at www.montedeoro.com

Wine Country Events Light the Holiday Spirit

by Frank Mangio
Good times and fine wines are a fixture in Temecula Wine Country, but when the clock strikes December, its 35+ wineries light up with seasonal events and deserve a visit.  Each in its own way, most wineries design their tasting rooms, even some of the vineyards, with  festive, colorful images for visitors.

Temecula Wine Country, Southern California’s largest, is aglow with lights 

and events to greet  holiday visitors.

Here’s a collection of ideas and events for your next visit to Temecula for holiday cheer and New Years celebration:
 Cougar Vineyard – Fri. Dec. 21 6 to 8pm. Live holiday music with special wine prices and discounts on clothing purchases.

Falkner Winery – Nightly, a spectacular display that includes more than 100,000 Eco Lights.
Mt. Palomar Winery – Presents the “Charlie Brown Christmas” Fri. Dec. 21 from 5 to 8pm. 3 piece Jazz ensemble.

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa – Great Horse Drawn Carriage Rides through the vineyards daily.  Call 951-587-9463 for details.

Fire & Ice New Years Eve Extravaganza with seating from 6:30 to 9:30pm.  4 course menu and music by a 5 piece band.  $ 150. pp. Party and balloon drop 8 to1pm.  $75. pp. Call 800-730-5042 for details and an RSVP or on-line www.wineresort.com.

Tesoro Winery – Swing into 2013 at Tesoro Winery with a Sinatra Tribute starring Steve Justice 9:30 to 12:30am in their Old Town Tasting Room.  $25. includes 2 glasses champagne and gourmet hors d’ oevres. Dance floor.  RSVP at 951-308-0000.

Wilson Creek Winery – A Jet-Setting Rockin New Years Eve Celebration from 7pm to 12:30am.  Hosted wine, champagne and 4 course dinner with funky soul music for dancing.  Cost is $160.  RSVP at 951-699-9463.

Wiens Family Cellars – “The Great Gatsby” event with a 1920’s New Years Eve speakeasy theme from 8 to 1am.  Dancing, appetizers and more.  $55. ea. Club members $44. Call 951-252-1770.

Grand Del Mar Makes Merry for the Holiday Season

Closer to San Diego, the magnificent Grand Del Mar has planned a series of memorable times for its guests and the public. Their theme, “skip the dinner-making and enjoy the merry making” fits the resort, with their five-star, five diamond dining at the Addison and the holiday-delightful Amaya restaurants, with special menus on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Years’ Day, including a Breakfast Buffet at Amaya.

At the spirited M Club on New Years’ Eve, several guest DJ’s will entertain from 9 to 1:30am.  There will be a Grand New Year’s Eve Party in the main ballroom of the resort from 9 to 1:30am, where you can dance to the famous Wayne Foster Entertainment’s 6 piece band.  For full details and RSVP’s call 858-314-1996 or book on-line at www.TheGrandDelMar.com.

The Grand Del Mar, in Coastal North San Diego, presents holiday dining and entertainment.

 More Wine Bytes
PAON Carlsbad has an Italian wine tasting in the wine shop Thurs. Dec. 20 to Wed. Dec. 26, 5:30 to 8:30pm.  6 tastings for $20.  Call for names at 760-729-7377.

Let the corks fly at the New Years Eve party at DOLCE PANE E VINO in Rancho Santa Fe.  Open dining from 5 to 9pm, then dancing, bubbly, food and friends to toast in the New Year. RSVP at 858-832-1518.

San Diego State University will host a Spring Semester Open House for its Professional Certificate in the Business of Wine program, Mon. Jan. 7 from 6 to 7:30pm in the SDSU Extended Studies/Gateway Centers.  Details by calling 619-594-1138.

The Harvest of the Decade

by Frank Mangio
In 2010 and 2011, the struggles of wineries up and down the state resonated in all corners of the industry.

The weather, front and center, was a force to be reckoned with and it sorted the winemaker pros from the rest of the pack. Too much rain, too much cold, too much heat was the hue and cry, while our friends in France and Europe took advantage of better weather conditions to gain an advantage in reviews and sales. Their current wine releases show bigger imports into the U.S.  The crop for 2012 will change all that.

 A Napa Valley worker sorts a bin of Cabernet grapes to hand remove sticks and leaves,  preparing grapes for the crusher.

From Temecula to Washington, west coast vineyards and wineries are grinning from ear to ear about the results.  The bad news this year is confined to France and Italy.  French wine production has slipped 20% to the lowest in 40 years with the double whammy of bad weather and disease, especially in the Champagne and Beaujolais regions.  Italy had a steaming hot spell.  White sparkling wine grapes suffered a 20% drop in Italy’s most popular sparkling wine varietals. Results are no better in Piedmont, Tuscany, Puglia, Veneto and other grape growing regions.  Add in rising labor, processing costs and the recession, and this year could rival the terrible 2002 crop.

New world wines on the coast will be the best in years.  Washington re-ports the completed growing season was near-perfect. The quality was exceptional and quantities were way up.  Up in Spring Mountain, Napa Valley, they loved the clockwork consistency of the season.  The fruit was beautiful and abundant. Perfect clusters were the norm.

Over in the Dry Creek District of Sonoma, Jim Pedroncelli of Pedroncelli Winery wrapped up the 85th harvest with a “bounty of grapes, and a seamless year.  We were truly blessed to have such a great year,” he joyfully asserted.  His yields were up 20%.

Aaron Piotter is the red Wine maker for Ferrari-Carano, not far from Pedroncelli.  He calls it a “fantastic year, after two very challenging years. We got more heat  but it was never too hot, and it was a longer growing season. There was a huge crop of white grapes, the merlot, zin and  sangiovese were up.”

Aaron Piotter, the winemaker for premium winery Ferrari-Carano in Sonoma, praised the 2012 wine

grape growing season as one of the best in a decade.

Paso Robles reported some spectacular fall weather allowing extra ripeness and development into the vines.  Cass Winery has 150 acres planted, just east of the Templeton Gap.  It specializes in Rhone varietals like Syrah, Grenache, Viognier, Marsanne and Rousanne. Owner Steve Cass is expecting more grapes for his hand picked estate varietals, now about 35% branded with the Cass name.  The rest is sold off elsewhere in the market.

Jim Hart can speak for Temecula Wine Country and the Ramona Wine Trail in San Diego County.  He makes wine for both Hart Winery, one of Temecula’s oldest, and Milagro Farm, the biggest winery in the Ramona Valley.  “Both wine countries are similar in soil and weather conditions. What grows well in Temecula, does well in San Diego County, and this harvest will turn out to be the best in years.  We are very excited about the crop.”

All this evidence augurs well for the west coast 2012 vintage.  The juice still needs to go through fermenting, aging and bottling and no one can really know, but when you see this great year on the shelves in a couple of years, I would advise you consider buying it by the case.

Wine Bytes
Bacchus Wine Market downtown San Diego has a Rhone Valley Tasting Sat. Nov. 24 from 2 to 8:30pm.  Cost is $20. for 7 samples of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre and others.  Call 619-236-0005 for details.

At Vintana in Escondido, a DAOU Wine dinner is planned for Sun. Nov. 25 at 6pm.  Wine makers Georges and Daniel Daou will be there for the 5 course dinner with their wines.  Cost is $85. pp.  Call 760-745-7777 for an RSVP.

333 Pacific in Oceanside has a Hendry Ranch wine dinner set for Tues. Nov. 27 at 6:30pm.  Special guest is owner Mike Hendry.  $75. ea.  Call 760-433-3333 for reservations.

South Coast Winery in Temecula unveils its Tree Lighting Celebration in their courtyard Sun. Nov. 25 at 6pm, with holiday music.  Details at 866-994-6379 x 7210.

The legendary Silver Oak Napa Valley and Sonoma wines will be poured at Holiday Wine Cellar in Escondido Thurs. Dec. 6, from 6 to 8pm.  $20. cost includes a selection of gourmet cheeses. RSVP at 760-745-1200.

A Walk in the Clouds of South Coast

by Frank Mangio

A lush, romantic movie drama about a beautiful Napa Valley Vineyard, its trials and successes in making great wine, came on screen in 1995 starring Anthony Quinn and a very young Keanu Reeves. At the same time I and many others were enjoying the film, Jim Carter, since 2003 the owner of South Coast Winery in Temecula, was promising himself he would live out the inspiring message of a Walk in the Clouds and take 400 acres of family purchased land near the Peak of Mount Palomar and make it into a classic vineyard.

It was there that the origins of South Coast Winery really began with its legendary Wild Horse Peak and some of the finest grapes in California. At a recent tour of the property, a private jeep vehicle spirited us up the winding, bumpy 20 minute drive through canyons and rock formations. The vineyard at once shocks and delights as it suddenly appears; a cloud of green for almost as far as the eye can see.

Keith Orlebeck and Javier Flores inspect a “block” of

Merlot grapes at Wild Horse Peak Mountain Vineyard.

It’s a tribute to the care of the environment that Carter and his team have implemented at South Coast , that most of Wild Horse Peak lies within the Cleveland National Forest, a beautiful, pristine public preserve. The 800 vines per acre are mostly in a vast meadow, in harmony with the natural brush and tree formations of the canyons.

At 2,200 feet and higher, the red wines (they also have a small block of Chardonnay grapes) are intense and flavorful. Each block is tested for flavor and juice quality by Master Winemaker Jon McPherson and Winemaker Javier Flores. McPherson, who hails from Texas and a pioneer wine family, and Flores, who learned his craft at Mexico’s leading LaCetto Winery, demand that kind of constant attention to what the grapes are telling them. “It’s about letting the grapes speak,” they said. “We listen and then carefully nurture the process.”

Celebrity Cruises West Region Director Scott Clifton showcases my Mediterranean Wine Cruise October 10 through October 20, at the recent California Wine Festival.

Varietals that I would recommend when you look for the Wild Horse Peak Mountain Vineyard label include: the 2006 100% Sangiovese, a recent Best of Class Gold ( $34.); 2006 Cabernet 4-Block Blend Best of Class Gold($28.); 2008 Tempranillo which is new and is tasting beautifully ($18.) Wine club prices are approximately 25% less.

South Coast has run up an excellent record of awards for their wines, including the “Golden Bear” California Winery of the Year, 2 years in a row in 2008 and 2009. It’s not just about the winery. Its Vineyard Rose Restaurant claimed its first “Award of Excellence” from Wine Spectator Magazine and the Grape Seed Spa has 11 treatment rooms and complete spa services. Private villas in the vineyard feature terraces, fireplaces and Jacuzzi tubs.

A walk around the winery and resort with founder and dream builder Carter reveals that he …”wanted to share the complete wine country experience. Guests enjoy the finest wines paired with the finest food and stay in a private villa in the middle of a vineyard. “Learn more by visiting www.WineResort.com. Or phone 951-587-9463.

Set Sail on Wine Cruises

In October I will have the pleasure of hosting a special 10 day “Taste of the Vineyards” Celebrity Cruise Lines wine cruise around Italy and the Greek Islands.

The cruise will be packed with wine opportunities to” Swirl, Sip and Savor ,” and learn more about wine than you ever have before. This ship has been outfitted with a one-of-a-kind 2 story wine tower that needs a tour to see it all. Enomatic wine tasting and preservation systems

are another exclusive feature.

When you dine you have over 500 wine selections with a cellar of 10,000 bottles. Twenty three certified sommeliers are on hand in a wide variety of restaurants.

As if that were not enough to book now, the cabin price includes: a welcome aboard bottle of wine, Wine Appreciation seminar, Art of Food & Wine Pairing Seminar, tour of the ship’s culinary operations, and two special wine classes by the host…that’s me!

Celebrity has many wine cruises for destinations around the world, and no better than Italy and the Mediterranean at harvest time in the vineyards. That’s the one I chose and I hope to meet you all on board. For booking information, visit www.vineyardtravel.net. Or call Rosemary Nigro at 760-741-6667. Toll free at 800-359-3772.

Wine Bytes

Sage Grill in Encinitas has a Markham Wine Dinner on Mon. June 20 at 6:30pm. Cost for 4 wines and 3 courses is $50.pp. For an RSVP call 760-943-7243.

Wine Rave San Diego happens Wed. June 22 at FLUXX Nightclub, Downtown from 7 to 10pm. 25 wine and spirit companies to choose from plus cuisine items. $45. advance, $60. at the door. Visit www.WineRaveSD.com.

The 3rd Annual San Diego Spirits Festival is Sat. June 25 and Sun. June 26, Bayside at the Port Pavilion, Broadway Pier San Diego, 1 to 5pm. Unlimited tastings, seminars, bartender battles with the best bars on the beaches. Enjoy the cocktail revolution!

See SanDiegoSpiritsFestival.com or call 888-559-2577 for tickets.

That’s Amore at il Farro

by Frank Mangio

Domenico Maurici is a huggable former southern Italian villager from Calabria Italy. As a young man, he and his brother worked the fields of his parent’s farm, producing a rare grain called Farro, a very tasty and healthy ingredient for pastas. They learned more at the regional culinary institute and at local Italian restaurants where they developed their home-style Farro based dishes.

Il Farro owner Domenico Maurici, Wine Director Susan Bartoletti and Mission Wine Distributor Ciro Cirillo

Southern California was next and 17 years ago, il Farro was born by the pier in Newport Beach. He was the first to present Italian food with low carbs, low gluten and high fiber with his Farro grains. This recent evening at an Italian wine release from Mission Wines, a leading distributor, il Farro was vibrating with happy diners who loved to hug and kiss as an antipasto.

The Farro grain was presented in the form of Fettuccine di Farro con Ricotta e Noci, Fettuccine pasta with ricotta cheese and walnuts in a blush sauce. The wine was a bold Italian, Casal Moro Rosso Del Veneto 2009. ($15.) The main dish was a Filletto alla Wellington, a beef filet mignon wrapped in puff pastry and stuffed with chicken and mushrooms, served with a porcino mushroom sauce.

The wine that was paired, which earned a top score with me, was the Lume Sangiovese Livio Innocenti. ($18.) from Montalcino. Ciro Cirillo, the wine spokesman, emphasized that the wines were only “small, handcrafted wines, in fine restaurants, and passionately made to pair with food.” For more, contact il Farro at 949-723-5711. www.ilfarro.com.

Cupid Comes to the Grand Del Mar

The Grand Del Mar, with two excellent restaurants, intimate bars and lounges to enhance the award-winning resort, spa and golf club, has mapped out a memorable month of February, the “Month of Love.”

On Monday February 14, Valentines Day itself, Addison invites diners to join in specialties such as Baby Sea Scallops, Lamb Rack Persille and other delights. This is a 6 course feast offering two options for 3 of the courses ( $135. pp; slightly higher with wine pairings).

Valentines Day dinner at Amaya will have chef Camron Woods presenting a 4 course menu with options for each course such as hot smoked salmon, lobster risotto and grilled prime Filet Mignon ( $95. pp; slightly higher with wine pairings). A Chocolate & Wine Tasting happens Friday February 11 from 5 to 8pm in the resort lobby lounge.

Wine Bytes

Central and Southern Italian Wines will be poured at Bacchus Wine Market, Fri. Jan. 28 from 4 to 8:30pm in the Gaslamp District of downtown San Diego. 7 wines will be sampled from Tuscany to Sicily. $15. ea. Call 619-236-0005.

Morgan’s In the Desert at La Quinta Country Club is planning a Pride Mountain Vineyards Dinner Fri. Jan. 28 with a reception at 6pm followed by dinner. You will be served Chardonnay, Viognier, Merlot and a library 2002 Cabernet. $95. pp. For an RSVP call 760-564-7600.

South Coast Winery in Temecula is conducting a Wild Women Cooking Class Sat. Jan. 29 from 11am to 2pm. Learn some exotic menu items paired with delicious wine selections. $35. charge for this fun and charged-up event. Call 951-587-9463 for your RSVP.

The ABC’s of wine from grape to glass is Sat. Jan. 29 from 2 to 4pm at Thornton Winery in Temecula. This informative workshop is conducted by winemaker David Vergari. Appetizers and 3 wines included. $65. inclusive. RSVP at 951-699-0099.

Orfila Winery in Escondido has their next Concert in the Vines Sun. Jan. 30 from 4:40 to 6:30pm. Enjoy the Cory Wilkens Band. It’s Classic Rock with an up-tempo beat. $20. ea. includes a glass of Orfila wine. For details, call 760-738-6500 xt 22.

Fizzy, Sweet & Sparkling Wines

by Frank Mangio
One of the missing links to my knowledge of wine has always been the array of before and after dinner champagnes, sparkling wines, ports, and grape-based exotic and vibrant drinks like Grappa,Vin Sante, Sherry and Vermouth.

Port is a beautifully sweet, powerful wine, mostly consumed after dinner and is especially delectable with chocolate. Its genetic home is Portugal but England embraced it as its own and some of the finest brands of port still come from the “mother country.”

The best Port grapes come from the Douro Valley in Northeast Portugal where a town, Oporto, gave it the name. The steep hillsides on both sides of the Douro make the vineyards some of the most challenging in the world. Roots have been known to go some 65 feet into the ground for stability and to survive the blazing hot summer days.

In California, Pedroncelli in Sonoma makes “Four Grapes” 2005 Vintage Port in the Dry Creek area. The most popular Portugese grapes are grown on the estate and aged 4 years before bottling, softening and maturing the wine.





“Four Grapes” Vintage Port from Pedroncelli Winery in Sonoma is a prime California Port, rewarded with a Best of Class in recent international competition.

Alcohol content is 19%, emphasizing ripe berries, caramel and toffee aromas that lead to warm spice, raspberry and cream soda on the palate. This is the ultimate Port value at $18. for a 500ml bottle. Look it up at www.pedroncelli.com.


Madeira comes from the island of the same name off the coast of Africa which is a Portugese colony. It was the wine of choice at the signing of the U.S. Declaration of Independence and considered the most prestigious after-dinner wine at the time. It is a fortified(small amount of Brandy), mostly white wine with a similar 19% alcohol content.

Not all sparkling wine can be called Champagne; only those from the region of Champagne France, made with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. The method of production, “Methode Champenoise” can be used worldwide, but the Champagne French keep a lid on the brand. Other old world Sparkling Wines that are popular are in Italy: Prosecco and Moscato D’Asti. One of the most respected Champagnes is Dom Perignon. The 2002 which is available now is $149.99 in most retail stores. Fresh almonds and dried fruit capture the palate, along with intensely floral, perfumed jasmine that leads a tropical surge from the Chardonnay base. Some of the best domestic Sparkling Wines come from Oregon and California. Argyle from the Willamette Valley is refined and elegant in its 2000 vintage. ($60.) On the value side, Mumm Napa Valley is just $20. and V. Sattui Brut Napa Valley with ripe flavors of apple pie is just $22.

Just up the road in Temecula, the veteran Sparkling Wine maker, medal and award winner, Jon McPherson, is expanding his skills in this style of wine for South Coast Winery. Long known for his expertise in the “Methode Champenoise”style, he has now released a 2010 Pinot Grigio for sparkling wine. McPherson has long admired the Italian style of winemaking and this time looked to the Alto Adige district of Italy for this bright citrus and delicate apple taste. McPherson recommends it, not just for celebration, but paired to a seafood or chicken dinner.


New drink treats are coming out of South Coast Winery Resort & Spa: A Pinot Grigio Sparkling wine and a Grappa based menu of cocktails.

In South Coast’s Vineyard Rose Restaurant, mixed drinks are made with a grape-based Italian favorite called Grappa, made from the skin of the grape. Grappa has a uniquely different quality about it and no two grappas taste quite the same. Jacobi Poli was chosen as supplier, among the oldest in use today. Over 7 popular drinks are now woven with the popular Grappa., including Margarita and Bloody Mary. Learn more at www.wineresort.com.

Wine Bytes
Il Fornaio in Del Mar opens its 2011 Festa Regionale Series now to Sun. Jan . 16. The regional cuisine is the Friuli-Venezie with local Pastas, Secondi and Dolce. Wines of the regions are also featured. For reservations, call 1-888-ITALIAN.

Meritage Wine Market presents a World Cabernet Face-off Fri. Jan. 7 from 6 to 8pm. $20. fee. Call 760-479-2500 for winery names.

Bacchus Wine Market has its famous Blind Tasting Game, in the Gaslamp District of Downtown San Diego, Sat. Jan 8 from 2pm to 8:30pm. Cost is $15. They brown bag 8 wines and taste each. Prize for closest picks. RSVP at 619-236-0005.

Curds and Wine in Clairemont has a Winemaking Class Sat. Jan. 8 from 1 to 2pm. This is FREE to the public. Call 858-384-6566.

La Costa Wine Company and the Wine Smarties present a “Blind Taste Like a Pro” Seminar, Sat. Jan. 15 from 3 to 5pm. Cost is $40. ea. Taste 5 wines. RSVP at 619-955-8884.

Big Z Packs a Heavyweight Punch

by Frank Mangio
Zinfandel is California’s muscle wine. 2007’s are in abundance with some wineries introducing their 2008’s. Both vintages deliver big time. According to Wine Spectator’s Vintage Ratings, both years are up there with the best in a decade.

“Zin” as the varietal is affectionately known, almost became California’s official “native” grape recently until someone pointed out that genetically it was proven to come from Italy and known as Primitivo, with lineage extended to an obscure grape in Croatia. It was first planted in California in the 1850’s with original “old vines” still producing wine today.

As of 2008, Zin is the 5th most widely planted grape, behind Cabernet, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris.
The Central Coast and Sonoma are two wine making districts that first come to mind as excellent Zin Countries. Not far behind is Amador County and Plymouth in particular, the home of Jeff Runquist Wines.

Jeff is known for his wide-ranging quest for just the right grapes for his wines. In addition to Amador grapes, he draws from Paso Robles, Carneros in Napa Valley, Lodi and Clarksburg. The 2007 Zins won Best of Class and Gold at the California State Fair and Pacific Rim International Wine Competition. The 08’s are off to a great start as they took Platinum at the New World International Wine Competition. Although ’08 was considered a challenging harvest, this “Z” has deep brooding color with a deep-seated aroma. Smoky oak and chocolate weave through restrained tannins. Alcohol level is down to 14.3% enhancing flavor. Zins commonly are over 15% alcohol. Price is $24. on the web site. The winery produces 14 varietals each with limited production. The Jeff Runquist Tasting Room hours also are limited: Friday through Sunday 11 to 5pm. See more at www.jeffrunquistwines.com.

How Much do you Get in that Bottle or Barrel
I am no different than any other wine lover who has a constant quest for great wines worldwide. Its’ a never-ending seduction of sight, smell, sip and sensory satisfaction. I get to write about these adventures in wine and I am constantly thankful for the privilege. I also enjoy the research side of this world, with a fascination for quantifying what I write about, so here are my latest facts and figures:

The tools of wine consumption start out with a popular size of wine bottle containing 750 mille liters of wine that holds 5 glasses of wine at 5.5 ounces per glass. That’s about 25.6 ounces per bottle, or 2.4 pounds of grapes. One case of wine holds 12 bottles, or 30 pounds of grapes or 60 glasses of wine. Winemakers can expect a barrel of wine to hold nearly 25 cases of wine or 1,180 glasses. A barrel gets very heavy at these amounts, weighing 740 pounds or 59 gallons of wine.

Thanks to my friends at the International Wine Guild in Denver Colorado, the most recent wine trends data from 2008 has this to say: wine consumption is up 3.5% worldwide, from 6.3 billion gallons to 6.5 billion.

Per capita consumption by country is surprising: Vatican City State leads at 17.6 gallons per person! Following closely is France, Luxembourg and Italy. What about the U.S.? We are #57 at 2.5 gallons per person, but we are up 14.5% For the total country, regardless of individual consumption, the U.S. is #3 behind France and Italy. The biggest producing country and the biggest exporter is Italy at 452 million gallons or 33% of their production. Salute Italia!

Wine Bytes
Alternative Wines in Carmel Valley brings Schafer Wines for a tasting on Fri. Oct. 22 at 6:30pm. New Chardonnay, Cabernet and Merlot are offered. Cost information by calling 858-780-9463.

South Coast Winery in Temecula hosts a Chefs and Winemakers Intimate Dinner on Sat. Oct. 23 from 6 to 9pm. Enjoy new releases and big winners, a 5 course dinner and a free bottle of autographed wine from the winemakers. $90. for club members, $95. for non members. RSVP at 951-9463, x 7210.

Dolce Pane E Vino wine bar and restaurant in Rancho Santa Fe is presenting a Premier Champagne Tasting of Perrier, Blanc de Blanc and M umm on Sat. Oct. 23 from 3 to 5pm.. $25. pp. Reserve your space at 858-832-1518.

90 Points or Higher is the wine tasting at San Diego Wine Company Sat. Oct. 23 from 11 to 4:30pm. Just $15. is the cost. Details at 858-586-WINE.

3rd Corner Wine Shop & Bistro in Encinitas has Wines of Argentina with a paired dinner on Tues. Oct. 26. Reception at 6pm. 4 course dinner includes rack of lamb and hangar steak. $50. ea. Call for an RSVP at 760-942-2104.

The New World Wine Experience presented by the world-leading Wine Spectator Magazine is planned for Las Vegas’ The Venetian and the Palazzo, Thurs. Oct. 28 and Fri. Oct. 29, 7:30 to 10pm. 220 top wineries will be there. Tickets are $250. pp. Order tickets at www.venetian.com.

It’s Cozy with the Piano Man at Mille Fleurs

by Frank Mangio
Every Wednesday through Saturday for the past 17 years at Mille Fleurs in Rancho Santa Fe, after-dinner guests and new arrivals with wine glass in-hand, gather around the grand piano for the unique talent and voice of Randy Beecher. “I started in May of 1993 and I’ve always loved the energy in this room,” he said, flashing that perpetual smile. “I try to read the room and what they might want to hear.”

Randy plays and sings it all, from show tunes to Motown to current pop music. I asked him if his romantic atmosphere has helped guests meet and date. “Oh yes,” he answered. “And, marriage proposals are made over my music.”
He credits owner Bertrand Hug and manager Julien Hug for recognizing his talent and staying with him and providing him with a stage for his music.

Randy Beecher is the piano man Wednesday through Saturdays at the popular Mille Fleurs in Rancho Santa Fe.

All this good-time entertainment is an entrée to a legendary restaurant dining and wine experience at Mille Fleurs. I suggest you start out at the bar and taste the house signature wines, especially the Tantara 2008s.

Bertrand is a Bordeaux Blend aficionado and his Cuvee Bertrand from Santa Barbara is one he blended himself ( $50.). The kitchen is governed by award-winning Chef de Cuisine Martin Woesle, who trained in Munich Germany, worked in Hollywood’s Ma Maison and has been at Mille Fleurs since 1985. He uses fresh vegetables, salads and other ingredients from the nearby Chino’s Farm. Mille Fleurs offers a Prix Fixe Menu as well as an entrée menu with about 12 choices including Five Light Mediterranean selections.

The Hugs also own Mister A’s, a historic rooftop restaurant on 5th Avenue downtown San Diego and have just purchased and renovated a restaurant on El Paseo in downtown Palm Desert, Augusta Modern. Learn more at www.millefleurs.com.

NEW BOOKS: Fine Wineries of Napa-Sonoma-Mendocino & Central Coast
Two beautifully bound wine books have appeared as a colorful visitors guide with profiles and color images of all the most glamorous wineries and vineyards in Napa Valley, Sonoma and Mendocino; and the 2nd book displaying wineries from Central Coast, including Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles.

Wine traveler and publisher Tom Silberkleit is the master publisher behind this 4th edition of Napa, Sonoma and Mendocino, and the 1st edition of Central Coast Wineries. September is California Wine Month, celebrating the over 3,000 wineries that dot the state.

Silberkleit’s mission has been to do the on-site legwork to spotlight a number of excellent choices for the weekend traveler. The 160 page Napa-Sonoma-Mendocino edition alone has over 200 color images and profiles of 69 wineries with features and directions on each. The retail price is $19.95 hardcover and available at leading bookstores and Amazon.com. Be sure to explore their website at www.Californiafinewineries.com

Wine Bytes
Bernardo Winery in Rancho Bernardo has Jazz on the Patio, 2 to 5pm Sundays. On Sept. 26 Jimmy and Enrique with guitar and percussion, and Oct. 3rd it’s the Peter Sprague Trio. For details call 858-487-1866.

Ponte Winery in Temecula has its 8th annual Grape Stomp Festival Sun. Sept. 26, from 4 to 9pm. Competition, dancing, live music and a buffet dinner for $95. pp. Wine club members $86. And of course lots of Ponte wines to taste are included. Order tickets at 951-694-8855.

South Coast Winery Resort and Spa has two exciting events: The Blessing of the Wine, Grape Stomp and Harvest from 4 to 7pm Sun. Sept. 26 with a BBQ, contests, live music and dancing. Reserve tickets at 951-587-9463; and a Jazz concert by the great Kenny G on Sat. Oct. 2 with show time at 8pm. Doors open at 5pm, dinner at 6:30pm. Tiered ticket prices, starting as low as $55. Check out the website www.rythmonthevine.org. Or call Ticket Master at 800-745-3000.

VR Green Farms at the Bella Colina Golf Course in San Clemente has an authentic Roman Encampment Sun. Sept. 26 from 11 to 3pm.Experience Roman Legion costumes, music, customs and language. $10. ea. Food and drink available for $55. RSVP for more information at 949-697-0032.

Briar Rose Winery in Temecula presents Barrie Lynn, the Beverly Hills Times Cheese Empresario Sat. Oct. 2 at 6pm, for an Artisanal Cheese and Wine Pairing Adventure and Class. Taste acclaimed and library award winning wines paired with international cheeses, to perfection. Cost is $45. RSVP at 951-308-1098.

Juicy News from Temecula Wine Country

by Frank Mangio
Activity is ratcheting up in Temecula Wine Country. New releases from several wineries have come back with gold and silver at important competitive events, a newly opened winery is a stately, beautiful Tuscan style villa on a hill, Old Town Temecula is adding to its lineup of wine shops and weddings are being booked in the vineyards.

Jim Carter’s South Coast Winery Resort and Spa has hit it big with its 2008 Wild Horse Peak Mountain Vineyard Sangiovese. At the recent New World International Wine Competition, this flavor champion took Best of Varietal, Best of Class and Double Gold.

Taste of Wine colunmnist Frank Mangio with South Coast owner Jim Carter

The winery reports that over its six year history, it has received over 1,000 awards and medals from regional and international competition.

Callaway Winery is off to a good start this year with gold for its 2008 Muscat Canelli. At Briar Rose Winery, the 2004 Petite Verdot won the Chairman’s Award at the Riverside International Wine Competition late last year and its 2004 Cabernet was judged Gold Best of Class.

An impressive new winery is Monte De Oro Winery and Vineyard with its old world architecture, 100% estate wines and underground barrel room that holds 900 plus barrels in its 9,000 square feet. It’s viewed from the tasting room through a 16’ by 16’ glass floor which is the barrel room’s ceiling. My initial tastings revealed a lovely 2007 Viognier and a 2006 Syrah that I felt were the best on the list.

In Old Town Temecula, Tesoro Winery’s Tasting Room is causing a buzz with its Artist Series Food, Wine and Fine Art. Their wines trend toward big reds like Cabernet, Tempranillo, Petite Sirah and Tribordo Port. The owners will be operating from a future vineyard location in wine country in the near future.

Free jazz starts up at Falkner Winery Sunday April 11 and every Sunday through the season. Performances will be 3 hours beginning at noon and going until 3pm. Chairs and tables are provided.

The big name concerts are again planned for Thornton, Wiens and South Coast and we’ll be doing a later column alerting you to the lineup which is among the best in Southern California.

Finally, if marriage is in your near future, you can’t do better than a wedding in the vines. Orfila Winery in Escondido has a lovely intimate setting and some attractive early-season discounts. In Temecula, look to: Wilson Creek for Tuscan inspired gardens, an events center and a dramatic open air gazebo.

At Ponte Winery, current specials include big discounts on small weddings, including Saturdays. A wedding here before April 30 receives a case of wine at the time of booking. Falkner Winery is on a hill with a beautiful view of the valley. Special custom-designed themes to personalize the event include hot air balloon rides for a unique experience to “Here Comes the Bride.” South Coast Winery Resort and Spa can offer custom labeled wines and spa packages for the wedding party. Bridal shower, bachelor parties and rehearsal dinners are arranged.
Wedding events at wineries are available in Temecula Wine Country. Ponte Winery is shown in the photo.

For wedding night and honeymoon stays, South Coast has many villas in the vines for an elegant stay. Thornton Winery offers the romantic Champagne Caves or a fountain terrace overlooking the vineyards. Experienced event specialists achieve perfection in every detail including wine and food pairings. Wiens Family Cellars offer a fully enclosed event pavilion, outdoor patio or intimate barrel room. Early season offers are available. Enjoy one of the happiest days in anyone’s life, with a memorable wedding in the vineyards.

Wine Bytes
Pack your bags and travel to Verona Italy for the world’s biggest wine tasting, Vinitaly Wine and Spirits Exhibition. Taste and enjoy high quality wine and other beverages from over 4,000 exhibitors. For details phone 39-45-8298111.

The Pebble Beach Food and Wine Festival Thurs. Apr. 8 to Sun. Apr. 11 brings together 60 celebrity chefs and 250 wineries. Grand Tasting is Sat. April 10. Go to www.pebblebeachfoodandwine.com for details.

Carlsbad Wine Merchants has started up live music and wine tastings with appetizers every Fri. from 6:30 to 9:30pm. Call 760-804-9994.

A Fruity and Floral Wine Tasting is offered at Morgan Run Resort in Rancho Santa Fe, Wed. Apr. 7 from 5:30 to 7pm. Whites and reds will be poured. $30. cost. Call 619-955-8884.

Gondola Wine Parties Dock at Loews Coronado

Photo and Article by Frank Mangio
In Venice , the gondola has been the most romantic symbol in all of Italy . Handsome men in striped shirts and pie hats, take couples along the maze of canals in long, black, sleek boats. They steer the gondolas and croon Italian love songs, breaking out a bottle of Chianti, with cheese and bread.

The magic and tradition of the gondola is as near as Coronado Island San Diego, on the docks of Loews Resort and Hotel. It may not have the centuries-old villas and cathedrals, but it does have San Diego ’s lovely weather and clear skies, virtually assuring a relaxing journey and romantic adventure.

A closer look at the Gondola Company’s version of gondola rides shows that it can be an even more attractive feature than the originals in Venice .

Wine sommelier Kirt Kirschenman leads a Party Gondola Wine Tasting Cruise, with several scheduled tastings through the summer that weaves its way around the many canals of Coronado Cays. He presents six favorite wines with complimentary chocolate covered strawberries that enhance the flavor of the offerings.

Sean Jamieson, the captain of this whimsical evening, navigates a double size gondola that can seat up to 14, while Kirschenman opens six lovely wines. They were Mediterranean varietals on the evening I covered the event. Standouts were: 2008 Benvolio Pinot Grigio white from Fruili ( 8.99 ), 2005 San Alejandro Las Rocas red from Spain (8.99) and 10 year old Quinta do Noval Tawny Port from Portugal ( 28.99). The port was laced with nutty, coffee-like notes, snuggled up to a roasted cherry-like nose with raisins and spice. Definitely a nautical favorite that night.

Wine sommelier Kirt Kirschenman opens a Quinta do Noval 10 year old Tawny Port at Loews Gondola Wine Party Cruises.

A gondola cruise can be tailored to the occasion, from the signature “Passaporto” (85. for two) to the “Fleet Cruise” for large groups on as many as 6 gondolas ( $25. per person). For reservations and information, contact the office at 619-429-6317. Web access is www.gondolacompany.com.

Wines of the Danube

One of the exhilarating benefits of tasting wines in lesser- known parts of the world is the hunt and discovery of distinguished wine countries, like Austria . This part of the world has rewarded me in the past with its fantastic scenery, music and centuries-old architecture. I am just now learning about the warmth and purity of its white wines.

The Wachau region on the banks of the Danube River and west of Vienna makes wines that are layered with cool minerality and are nicely acidic. The grapes are Gruner Vetliner and Riesling and are picked from steep vineyards, grown on terraces high above the Danube , never more than a half mile from its banks. The wines are not cheap: range is from $25. to 70. You get a combination of power, elegance and a cool character with pure fruit. Austrian wines are world-class. Try the 2006 Franz Hirtzberger Riesling, or the 2006 Emmerich Knoll Gruner Veltliner.

Wine Bytes

§ The next Venetian Party Boat Wine Tasting in Coronado (see story above) will be Fri. June 26 from 7:30 to 9pm . $45. pp. Sommelier Kirt Kirschenman has six bottles of his favorites he will taste with you. Call 619-429-6317.

§ The 2nd annual Wine & A Bite Art Walk series is Sat. June 20, 5-7pm in downtown Fallbrook. Food from six popular Fallbrook restaurants. $20. pp in advance, $25. day of the event. For ticket info call 877-451-3282.

§ Eli’s Food and Wine in Del Mar presents the newest wines from the Napa Valley ’s legendary ZD Winery, Sat. June 20 from 3 to 5pm. Just $10. Call 858-481-2323.

§ North County Wine Company in San Marcos has a couple of powerhouse wine events coming this month: Fri. the 19th for Big Juicy Reds and Fri. the 26th for Summer Whites. Event runs from 5 – 8pm. $10. pp. Call for details at 760-744-2119.

§ Island Prime Restaurant on Harbor Island San Diego presents a Tasting and Seminar of Pinot Noirs from Around the World, Sat. June 20 from 12 noon to 2pm . Learn about the Pinot grape with a hands-on workshop to include hosted hors d’oevres. Cost is $30. RSVP by e mailing: Maurice@islandprime.com.

§ San Diego Wine Company on Miramar Blvd. San Diego has an all-Italian tasting on Sat. June 20 from 11-4:30pm . Just $10. On Sat. June 27, they have an all-German tasting. Same price.

§ South Coast Winery Resort and Spa jazzes up the winery with “Rhythm on the Vine,” Sat. June 27 starring singing great Jeffrey Osborne, Kirk Whalum and Gerald Albright. Benefits Shriners Hospitals for Children. Gates open at 5pm. Admission starts at $55. Check the web site for more: www.wineresort.com.