Benise Benefit Concert: Good Vinebrations to Evening in Temecula Wine Country

Concert Promoter Buddy Linn, (who also owns La Cereza Winery with wife Cheri) snapped this pre-concert photo of Roni Benise about to be cornered by Taste of Wine TV producers Mike Bragg (left) and Frank Mangio. An exclusive on-camera interview of Benise by show host J.T. Meadows will be posted later this week on YouTube, and will appear in the September TV program on San Diego CW/6. Frank Mangio will review the Benise concert and associated summer evening La Cereza party in an upcoming posting here at www.TasteOfWineTV.com

Concert Season Begins in Temecula Wine Country

A vineyard setting, beautifully crafted wine and food creations, outdoor vineyard setting and some of the coolest jazz and pop music, awaits you this season in Temecula Wine Country. The major winery players in the concert scene this year is venerable favorite Thornton Winery and its 21st annual Champagne Jazz series, Wiens with its pop music, and South Coast Winery Resort and Spa and its Rhythm on the Vine Jazz headliner.

Mindi Abair kicks off the Temecula Winery concert scene at Thornton Winery Sunday April 26.

Thornton’s season includes 22 dates, from Sunday April 26 at 4pm with marquee attractions Mindi Abair and David Benoit, all the way to Sunday October 11 from 4pm with guitarist Jesse Cook.

If you haven’t taken in Mindi Abair’ s concerts, she is like a vintage, velvety bottle of rare wine. Teaming up with “Snoopy” theme song originator Benoit, this concert promises to be memorable.

Mindi started up in 2003 with her own sax version of a Snoopy-linked hit called “Lucy,” part of a CD that hit the top 5 on the Jazz charts. She sings, plays a mean alto sax and has a nationwide radio show. Her new CD just out is called “Stars,” a contemporary jazz and pop collection of love songs. Thornton has a Gourmet Supper Package with a complete selection of their award-winning sparkling and premium varietal wines. For tickets and a full calendar of acts, call 951-699-3021.

Wiens Family Cellars offers the English Beat with Richard Blade on Friday May 8 at 5:30pm, and The Knack on Friday June 19. The 80’s sounds are back, with special tiered pricing. Call 951-694-9892.

South Coast and its Rhythm on the Vine event happens Saturday June 27 beginning at 6:30pm with Sax for Stax, then Jeffrey Osborne at 9pm. It benefits Shriners Hospital for Children. For further news, call 951-587-9463.

Half Bottle-Half Price Wine Menu at Savory
A tip of the cork to Savory Casual Fare of Encinitas, G.M. John Boily and Chef Pascal Vignau for a bold move to increase dining value. On Tuesdays and Wednesday, a new, exciting half wine bottle inventory is being offered along with a half price menu. “This should give our guests a greater opportunity to try new wines from around the world,” said Vignau. Dinner hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 5pm to 9:30pm. Menu selections can be viewed on the website at www.savorycasualfare.com.


Wine Bytes
 Wine Street Carlsbad toasts their Chile/Argentina tasting Fri. Apr. 24 with a guest pourer, from 5:30 to 8:30pm. Cost is $15. ea. Call 760-431-8455.
 Bacchus in the San Diego Gaslamp District presents wines from South Africa Fri. Apr. 24 from 4pm to 8:30pm for $15. pp. Sample Chenin Blanc, Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. 619-236-0005.
 Tastes, downtown Encinitas, has an evening with winemaker Patty Green of Patricia Green Cellars, Sun. Apr. 26 at 6pm. Five course Pinot Noir dinner for $120. ea. RSVP at 760-942-9549.
 The Westgate Hotel downtown San Diego offers a Wine, Dine and Design evening on Thurs. Apr. 30 from 5 to 7pm, for a fee of $40. It’s an interactive class with delightful appetizers paired with lovely wines. A floral class adds to the attraction. For more, call 619-557-3655, ext 3619.
 A blind tasting adds to the fun at the Holiday Wine Cellar in Escondido, Mon. Apr. 27 from 5:30 to 7:30pm. Just $5. admission. Five Merlots will be offered. Call 760-745-1200.

Wine and Cigars Pair Well at La Cereza Winery

Article and photo by Frank Mangio
The big buzz in the wine world has been wine and food pairing. A new appreciation of the relationship of a fine wine with a menu item that will bring out its ultimate characteristics has had chefs and winemakers trading flavor ideas, with the diner the big winner. Five course dinners pair up with five elegant wines, from white to the dense bold reds, usually offered with the main course.

Enter La Cereza Winery in Temecula Wine Country with a new idea that’s causing a lot of interest with wine lovers, some of which may surprise you. But first a little background. Buddy and Cheri Linn came from the trade show world and burst on the Temecula wine world a few years ago when they purchased not one but two side-by-side wineries: Maurice Carrie, primarily a maker of white wines, and what is now La Cereza Winery, featuring Spanish reds, but with a niche of fine whites that have taken some important awards in recent competitions.

These two entrepreneurs have changed the landscape of wine in Temecula. They are both gifted in the sense that they understand and act on the next big trend in the industry. When they purchased the wineries, they made sure they secured the services of Gus Vizgirda, a premium winemaker in the valley, and one who could keep up with the innovations of the Linns, which included a move to feature Spanish wines.


Buddy and Cheri Linn at their La Ceraza Winery and Hemingway’s Cigar Bar

Grape varietals like Tempranillo and Garnacha have rocketed in sales and awards with the 2005 Garnacha grabbing gold in the recent Dallas wine competition. The couple have created a Spanish art gallery atmosphere in their tasting room and recently opened Hemingway’s Cigar and Wine Bar, a kind of Havana hideaway atmosphere. Customers can kick back on the soft leather oversize chairs and trade stories at the old world style bar under the portrait of “Papa Hemingway” and Cuban style portraits that characterize the fun of La Cereza.

All this of course leads up to the latest turn by Buddy and Cheri, into the new line of five premium La Cereza Cigars, carefully paired with their wines for maximum flavor and enjoyment.

“Fine cigars with fine wine are finally the missing ingredient to complete wine relaxation and the Hemingway experience,” Vizgirda said.

Buddy Linn added “we searched in several different countries for over a year to find the right blend of tobaccos, while finding the master rollers to create these extraordinary cigars.”

It starts out with the mild “Girlfriends” cigar that matched up with the light and fun “Girlfriends” white wine, popular with ladies at the bar.

The top of the line is the “Presidente,” made in the Dominican Republic and aged for 5 years. The rich earthiness matches up with the winery’s 2006 Tempranillo.

Fine wine, food, art and music have all made their imprint on the bloodline of La Cereza. Now, you can add premium cigars to the pedigree. For more, see www.lacerezawinery.com.

San Diego County Restaurant Week Sets Record
It started with a pep rally featuring San Diego’s Mayor Jerry Sanders, with some 50 participating restaurants in attendance at Tom Ham’s on Harbor Island in January.

The Restaurant Week promotion eventually brought 180 restaurants together countywide for up to 90% increases in diners and sales, attracted by the values of $20. to $40. for gourmet three course dinners.

Chair and co-founder Ingrid Croce of Croce’s Downtown Gaslamp Restaurant said “we’re thrilled that even with the downturn, this promotion was a great success, so much so we are going to bring it back later this year, September 13 to 18.” Visit www.restaurantweek.com for details.

Wine Bytes
Meritage Wine Market in Encinitas announced their next three Friday wine pourings: the Wines of Spain on March 20, Napa Wines on March 27 and French Wines on April 3. Events are 6 to 8pm. Details on pricing at 760-479-2500.

A new wine bar and restaurant has started up in Rancho Santa Fe at the Ciela community, with a daily menu of unique wines and menu pairings. It’s called Decanter. The owner and sommelier is Jayson Knack. He has stocked over 4,500 wines from around the world. Phone is 858-756-9333.

Bacchus Wine Market on G Street downtown San Diego has Italian whites and French reds at their weekly tasting on Fri. March 20, 4 to 8pm and Sat. March 21, 2 to 8pm. $15. pp. Call 619-236-0005.

An Italian wine dinner is the next event at Pala Mesa Resort in Fallbrook planned for Thurs. March 26, starting with a reception at 6pm. Vermintino, Sangiovese and Moscato wines are spotlighted. $69. ea. RSVP at 760-731-6805.

Ferrari Carano, one of the premier Sonoma Wineries is presenting their Taste of Spring Event, Sun. Apr. 5 from 11 to 4pm at the winery in Healdsburg. It’s a wine and food pairing with new vintages of their award winning wines. Includes a tour of the beautiful gardens and barrel rooms.

Admission is $25. and includes a souvenir glass. Call 707-433-6700 or see www.ferrari-carano.com.

A Taste of Wine can now also be seen in the glossy magazine, FINE HOMES AND LIVING. Look for it at news stands in San Diego County.

Wine and Valentines Day- Hearty Companions

by Frank Mangio
The romance of wine has been well documented in story and song. Couples are falling in love and having weddings at vineyards in increasing numbers. Elegant and extraordinary experiences have been the highest priority for the area wineries and restaurants that feature fine wine in their menus, as they plan for Valentines Day dinners on Saturday February 14th.

I have compiled a recommended list of those places that have wonderful experiences in place for their customers, but first let me introduce you to a Napa Valley Winery whose 33 acres are devoted to the romance of wine.

Bart and Barb O’Brien have owned and operated O’Brien Estate in the Oak Knoll district of Napa Valley since 2000. They have a home on the site. “We have re-grafted a great deal of the 33 acre vineyard from Chardonnay to its current 13 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest divided into Cab Franc, Merlot, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc,” Bart revealed. “What followed was a next-level move into a Bordeaux style blend which we decided to name Seduction, a deep dense purple wine with aromas of sweet black cherry. You taste intense currant and berry flavors on the palate, framed by fine-grained tannins,” he said. 2006 was a lovely year for this concentrated blend, and now the 2007 Seduction comes in a gift box that celebrates your someone special.
Bart and Barb O’Brien make wines in The Napa Valley that are perfectly suited for Valentines Day.

This year, Bart has the ultimate touch for Valentines Day with a “Romantic Trio,” three beautiful wines in a finely made limited edition wood gift box with velvet compartments. It contains: “Attraction” Chardonnay, “Romantic” Merlot and ”Seduction” Cabernet blend, and sells for $199. Check it out in time for Valentines Day by calling 707-252-8463 or go to: www.obrienestate.com.

Valentines Day Wine Bytes: Saturday February 14
Bernardo Winery’s Vino Valentino Dinner at Café Merlot where you select five wines to taste + gift glass, then estate aged wines and dinner in the Barrel Room. Jazz music and other surprise gifts. $75. each. $125. for two. RSVP at 858-487-1866.

Salerno Winery in Ramona has a dinner with the winemaker and opera music. Salmon with Salerno’s ’02 Elegante along with salad and the popular Salerno Petite Sirah; roasted white fish and seared tenderloin with the Estate Sensation. $80. pp. Contact Rose at 760-788-7160.

Valentines Day at the elegant Grand Del Mar includes an awesome six course dinner from Executive Chef William Bradley, capped by milk-fed Rotie or Braised Beef Shortribs. $125. pp with other options. Get the full story by calling 858-314-1900.

Savory Casual Fare in Encinitas has created exceptional meals served from 4pm to 9pm at $56. ea. or $78. with champagnes and matching wines. Entrees include filet of beef or Opakapuka. Call for RSVPs at 760-634-5556.

In Temecula Wine Country:

Ponte Winery has a candle-lit 4 course dinner in the Barrel Room, with one seating at 7pm. $95. pp. Call 951-694-8855.

Falkner Winery has a lovely four course feast in the Pinnacle Restaurant with pairings of their best wines, including Champagne and Port. Call at 951-676-8231 ext 1.

Thornton Winery has a Valentines Rendezvous with a 4-star dinner for two, a decadent dessert and premium wines. Petite Filet Mignon and grilled shrimp top the menu. $80. ea. Call 951-699-0099.

Allie’s Bistro and Lounge in Temecula has a 5 course dinner for $49. ea., or dinner with paired wines for $74. per guest. Call 951-695-8620.

Keyways Vineyard & Winery invites you to a sequel to Andrew Lloyd Weber’s Phantom of the Opera that starts at 7:30pm. A four course dinner is included with premium wines. $94. a person. Call 951-302-7888.

Send wine and food news to winenews@tasteofwinetv.com

Frank Mangio's Top Ten Tastings for 2008

What a grand year for wine it has been! I attended approximately 250 wine events at wine shops, restaurants, hotels, wineries and special celebrations tasting thousands of wines and meeting hundreds of wine professionals with a passion for their wines.

I submit the following top ten tastings listed alphabetically without regard to rank. All were equally delicious and are an excellent representation of their varietals. Price to value and availability were also a consideration. Prices can vary and are generally what I have seen on web sites and in the stores that stock them.

This year I have listed two Sangioveses, one from Italy and another from Temecula. There are also two blends: an Italian “Super Tuscan” style from Temecula and a Bordeaux style from Paso Robles. A Napa Cabernet and Chardonanay, an Oregon Pinot Noir, a Central Coast Zinfandel, a San Diego County Viognier and a Sonoma Petite Sirah complete the ten. Enjoy!

Clos LaChance Hummingbord Series Zinfandel,Central Coast CA., 2005. $18. A rare Zin with moderate alcohol which gave it a delicious European style flavor. Aged in natural oak for 14 months. Notes of wild cherry and raspberry. Oak spice on the finish. www.clos.com.

Erath Pinot Noir, Dundee Oregon, 2006. $19. The cornerstone of Erath’s wine portfolio and that of Oregon, this Pinot floats into the palate with luscious ripe strawberries and a slight but beautiful hint of caramel. Buoyant acidity. An artful wine. www.erath.com.

Falkner Super Tuscan Amante, Temecula CA. 2005. $39.95. The signature blend of Sangiovese, with some Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Robust and elegant. Excellent balance. Medium bodied mouthfeel enhances a variety of food pairings. www.falknerwinery.com

Grgich Hills Estate Chardonnay, Napa Valley Ca., 2006. $42. A venerable, legendary name and hero of the ’76 Paris Tasting that put Napa Valley on the world wine map, Grgich produces its first Chardonnay that is both organic and biodynamic with no artificial enhancers. Alive with delicious acidity. Notes of lemon zest, flowers and honey. Elegance shines. www.grgich.com.

Justin Isosceles, Paso Robles, 2005. $65. A banner vintage in Paso, carefully crafted pruning and perfect crop levels, produced a soft, fruit forward entry with complexity and promise. Aromas of boysenberry, mocha, mint and cassis make this blend an event to remember. This wine will get even better with more aging, up to 15 years.

Pedroncelli Petite Sirah, Sonoma, Ca., 2005.$15. Superb value for this vintage. Rich with ripe blackberry, concentrated flavors, deep and complex. Dry Creek Valley aged for 23 months. www.pedroncelli.com.

Orfila Estate Lotus “67” Viognier, San Pasqual Valley, CA. 2007. $23. The Rhone Valley white that is the talk of the industry and no one does it better than Orfila. A blend of Viognier, Marsanne and Rousanne. The perfect 40 acre hillside for this exotic varietal with its tropical aromas and tastes. Earlier vintage won gold in France. www.orfila.com.

Peppoli Chianti Classico, Tuscany Italy, 2005. $23. Delivers classic Chianti earth-taste. Pronounced floral and mineral notes. Medium to full-bodied, with silky texture. Lots to enjoy here. Wide distribution. Wine Spectator favorite. www.winespectator.com.

South Coast Winery Wild Horse Peak Sangiovese, Temecula CA., 2005. $34. Best of Class in California competition, the grapes are grown in 2,200 feet altitude and steep terrain. Unrestrained taste, concentrated and uniquely structured. Winery was awarded the state winery of the year at the ’08 California State Fair competition. www.southcoastwinery.com

Z D Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, CA., 2006. $50. Dark velvet, stunning Cab, with a heavy scent of berry nectar. Explosive entrance to the palate. Rich coffee, chocolate hints. Balanced and drinkable now and will age gracefully for up to the next ten years. Handcrafted, with two years in oak. www.zdwines.com.
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WINE BYTES

WineSellar and Brasserie in Sorrento Valley San Diego has planned a French Style wine tasting on Sat. Jan. 3 from 11:30 to 2pm. Taste Burgundy, Bordeaux and Rhone Valley favorites. $20. ea. Another $12.50 for lunch. Call 858-450-9557.

Il Fornaio in Del Mar beigns its 2009 “Festa Regionale” dinners from Mon. Jan. 5 through Sun. Jan. 18. Food and wine from the Trentino-Alto Adige region will be featured. Drink Pinot Noir and Pinot Grigio. Reservations call 1-888-ITALIAN.

Bacchus Wine Market downtown San Diego has a Piedmont Italy wine event on Fri. Jan. 9 from 4 to 8pm. Wines featuring Barolo, Barbaresco and Barbera will be tasted. Details by calling 619-236-0005.

Falkner Winery in Temecula offers a Wine Appreciation class taught by in-house Sommelier George Myers on Sat. Jan. 17 from 10:30 to 2:30pm. Cost is $45. pp. Call 951-676-8231 for more.

New Guide Makes It Easy to Enjoy Wine Country

When Bob and Cindy Rhodes (pictured) set out to write a guide book about Temecula wineries, they took a little different tack with The Grape Escapes 2 ($19.95). They actually visited the wineries, tasted the wine and talked with the owners and winemakers. “We are not connoisseurs, just a normal couple who enjoy wine,” explained Cindy.

After tasting 250 wines and going to nearly four dozen wineries, the husband and wife team have made it easy for visitors to figure out where to go. “There are so many wineries in Temecula now it’s no longer easy to go for just one or two days,” Cindy says. She points out that the 271-page book is not just about wine. There are sections in the book covering best picnic area, restaurants, delis and shopping. She’s even included a special chapter on “Going in Style,” after experiencing Keyways Vineyard & Winery’s renovated bathrooms. Cindy said Keyways has plenty of dark wood to appeal to the male tastes. But it also has lots of “little touches” that only a female could appreciate, including a lady’s room with hammered copper stalls and Brazilian onyx sink countertop that is lit from below. “Women are more interested in (a first class bathroom) than guys are,” she said.

The book can be found at Temecula area wineries (Keyways, Oak Mountain, Ponte and Orfila) Barron’s Marketplace on Rancho California Road , the Temecula Valley Visitors Center in Old Town Temecula and online at www.thegrapeescapes.com

Buy Tickets for Temecula Harvest Wine Celebration

by Don McAuliffe

The early bird gets the worm at the Harvest Wine Celebration on Nov. 1-2.

Temecula Valley vintners and growers celebrate the 2008 grape crush with two days of food and wine. Sign up before Oct. 15 and the cost is only $79 a person, which includes food and wine both days and a souvenir wine glass. After October 15, the price goes up to $89 per person.

For Temecula and Murrieta residents who want to enjoy the festivities on Sunday only, the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association is charging $59 per person. The Harvest Wine Celebration is a great opportunity to visit 22 award-winning wineries from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day and sample great wine and wine-friendly food.

As Joe Hart, owner and winemaker at Hart Winery, says, “You get to try the wine with food, which is really what wine is all about – it’s a beverage to accompany food.”

Travel from winery to winery and taste barrel and tank samples of new and unreleased wines. For more information or media passes call 800-801-WINE.

Fiery Concert Brings New Wine to Temecula

Photo: La Cereza Winery owner Buddy Linn with Benise, the star of the winery’s first concert which was a sellout.

Article by Frank Mangio

La Cereza Winery in Temecula is still buzzing over the bold flamenco style concert by Benise and his bigger-than-life 25 piece band and dancers on August 16th. It was Buddy and Cheri Linn’s first event of this kind and a home run it was!

The opening act by Maston Smith and his wild medieval costuming, electric cello and bizarre dancers sent the crowd into a frenzy.

All this is a prelude to a new wine, created especially for this occasion by the Linns and their eclectic winemaker Gus Vizgirda… the “Benise Private Reserve Sangiovese.” La Cereza is always ahead of the curve with some 33 different wine brands to choose from and this passionate addition adds to the excitement of this Spanish formatted winery.

This wine has a bold flavor with distinctly cherry characteristics, and a slightly pepper, smoky accent. The sangiovese grape is Italian Tuscan originally and winemaker Vizgirda never disrespects that, but the Spanish touches that go into most reds at La Cereza is clearly evident. It pairs nicely with most beef. It’s already picking up medals in several California competitions. Vintage is 2005.

In other Temecula wine news: hats off to Thornton Winery in Temecula Wine Country for hosting a rare Progressive Dinner featuring three award winning winemakers and one top chef together in one event. Kim Wascher of Hart Winery, Gus Vizgirda of La Cereza and Maurice Carrie Wineries and the host winemaker Don Reha of Thornton provided welcome wine conversation for guests, while executive chef Steve Pickell shared secrets about matching Temecula wines with his exclusive cuisine. His menu items are part of the new selections at the winery’s Café Champagne. See them at www.thorntonwine.com.

Wine & Cuisine Gala of the Season is Sat. Oct. 4
Here is a rare event not to be missed. It’s the Circle of Hope Gala to benefit New Haven Youth and Family Services of Vista, at the Tuscan style, custom built Casa di Fede, a private family estate created by Frank and Claudette Mercardante, just south of Temecula, Saturday October 4. A VIP reception begins at 5 pm with cocktails and formal dinner from 6 to 9pm.

I have the privilege of being one of the selected wine presenters, along with the brilliant winemaker Leon Santoro of Orfila Vineyards and Winery. His wines will be exclusive to this high-level luxurious event. Other rare insights will be provided by Chocolatier Michael Antonorsi and featured guest and the Food Network’s newest star, Chef Jeff Henderson.

Henderson’s is a real-life Circle of Hope journey which took him from the streets of San Diego to prison, where he discovered a passion for cooking. Upon release he pursued a career to Los Angeles, San Diego and Las Vegas. He has since published a best selling book and has a movie in the works. A formal Tuscan-inspired dinner will be prepared by Master Chef Carlo Di Gristina, with live music by the Cecilia String Quartet. Tickets for this special occasion are $500. for the cocktails and formal dinner, and $1,000. for the VIP Reception, cocktails and dinner. For a complete summary, call 760-630-4035 or access www.circleofhopegala.org.

Keyways Gets Top Awards at Long Beach Grand Cru

Temecula, CA --Keyways Vineyard & Winery continued its remarkable performance at wine competitions in 2008 by winning seven medals at the prestigious Long Beach Gran Cru, including a Best of Class and three gold medals.

Keyways 2007 Chenin Blanca ($18) won a gold medal and Best of Class at the competition. Also winning gold medals were Keyways 2007 Sauvignon Blanc ($20 and Contentment ($21) a Rhone blend made form Viognier, Roussanne and Marsanne grapes.

Other medal winners included Keyways 2007 Riesling ($19), 2006 Barbera ($33), 2005 Cabernet Franc ($27) and 2006 Syrah ($35).

The Long Beach Grand Cru is considered one of the top international wine competitions in the U.S. The major public tasting event attracts more than 1,400 wine and food aficionados every year. In 2008, more than 400 wineries from a dozen countries submitted more than 1,900 entries.

The new Keyways Vineyard & Winery is only four years old, but the winery has received six coveted Double Gold and Best of Class awards at wine competitions in 2008.

Double Gold requires unanimous approval from a panel of four judges and Best of Class reflects superiority, typically in a price category.

For Keyways owner Terri Pebley, the results are evidence of the growing number of quality wines consistently coming from Keyways.

“Keyways wines are receiving this recognition in double-blind wine competitions with participants from all over the United States and the world,” she said. “Neither the judges nor the presenters know the identity of the wine they are tasting.”

Keyways winemaker Michael Tingley said the award is especially fulfilling because his wines were competing against the best of the best.

“Overall I think the level of competency in the Temecula Valley is going up,” he said. “This not only reflects the skill of the winemaker but the expertise of growers who are becoming better and better at what they do.”

For Tingley and many winemakers, award-winning wine always starts with great grapes.

“I really think the growers need to get more credit for the awards and medals,” he said. “They are the unsung heroes of Temecula’s Wine Country.”

He suggests that more wineries should produce vineyard-designated wines when possible so that the growers can share in some of the glory.

Keyways Vineyard & Winery is setting new standards in Temecula’s Wine Country. In addition to offering the first ice wine, it has created a new line of wines for women – who make 60 percent of the wine-buying decisions.

Keyways sit on about 13 acres at the confluence of the 2,000-acre Valle de los Caballos -- Valley of the Horses – and southern tier of Temecula’s Wine Country at 37338 DePortola Road. Its tasting room is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information call (951) 302-7888 or go to www.KeywaysWine.com

Wine has the Scent of a Woman at Keyways

It hardly seems possible that 2 ½ years ago Terri Pebley, then a commercial real estate executive, instead of representing the seller Karl Keys on a sale of the winery, decided to purchase and own Keyways herself. Terri had always been one to take a chance on the future, believing in herself and her ability to re-invent her life’s work. She has been a CPA, attended law school and made a living twice in real estate.

I had an opportunity to interview Terri recently and the mild-mannered, relaxed renaissance woman reflected on her whirlwind rise to prominence in the fast-moving Temecula Wine Country.

“At first, it was a tough business to learn, but it was one of those opportunities when I saw a door opening and something told me to go through it. The first challenge was had to find a new winemaker and it turned out he was the only male in an otherwise all-woman owned operation. We were very fortunate to obtain the services of Michael Tingley, a 28 year veteran. He has fit in beautifully and really does great in this environment.”

Entertainment is a high priority at the low-key Keyways Winery and Tasting Room. The Friday night I experienced the wines and the easy-going atmosphere, the weekly piano bar fun was going strong with Dennis Tormey doing his best Elton John while a full house of guests enjoyed a casual dinner and a selection of paired wines. These included a lovely ’07 Sauvignon Blanc and my favorite of the night: the Keyways 2006 Tempranillo with a wine club price of $24.80. It is Spain’s signature red grape with a lightly dusted pepper and tobacco taste coating the cherry accents. It recently made gold in the latest competition in Riverside. That same event brought Keyways the Gold “Chairman’s Award” for their Sauvignon Blanc. Keyways ’07 Chenin Blanca($28.) won Gold and Best of Class at the recent prestigious Long Beach Grand Cru awards that draws over 1,900 wine entries.

Terri has brought in a beautiful new concept events tent for special occasions like weddings. “We can accommodate up to 300 people, and plan to do concerts with female talent,” she said. “This will emphasize our series of four wines for women, Femina Vita (a woman’s life), that we created. They are highlighted by our Rhone Blend of white grapes called Contentment.”

Terri and her nearby winery neighbors are on DePortola Road, a more rustic route, which they have named the DePortola Trail, south of the main route of wineries. Special maps and signage signal that this is more rural horse country, where you are likely to see the owners pouring in the tasting rooms.

Next time, discover Keyways, the only woman-owned winery in Southern California. For more, call 951-302-7888 or search www.keywayswine.com.

Wine Spectator Names Best Restaurants
The latest issue of this worldwide wine magazine has awarded a number of area restaurants the Award of Excellence. Of the restaurants we have covered in this column, they include: The Barrel Room in Rancho Bernardo, Firefly Grill and Wine Bar and Firenze in Encinitas, Vigilucci’s in La Jolla, Encinitas and Carlsbad, Mille Fleurs in Rancho Santa Fe, Il Fornaio and Paradise Grill in Del Mar, Azul in La Jolla, Addison and Humphreys in San Diego and a Grand Award of Excellence to Winesellar & Brasserie in San Diego.

In Palm Desert, both of our feature restaurants won: The Steakhouse at Agua Caliente and Tuscany in the Marriott Desert Springs. All these restaurants scored best for their superior wine menu and their pairings with the food menu.

MELLOW: a wine bar…is all that and more

By Frank Mangio

You don’t’ have to be big to make a splash in the San Diego wine scene.

It really works when you’re MELLOW. When five o’clock rolls around, more than a few young professionals are mixing it up and comparing vintages at the recently opened MELLOW a wine bar, at Liberty Station in the Rosecrans district.

Phil Cutting and his special events director, Nikole Atterholm ( both shown in the accompanying photo) have set the wine and dine table with a cozy kind of “Cheers” atmosphere, where the bartenders and patrons seem to be equally able to make friends and keep them. The menu is bistro Mediterranean style with light, rustic cuisine…nothing pretentious and definitely wine-friendly.

Wine selections fall into the little-known, low production style. Phil prides himself on finding and presenting wines that customers won’t see everywhere.

On the day we stopped by, he was pouring a Filus ’05 Malbec from Argentina, in the Mendoza district. All his wines can be purchased on the retail side, but an opportunity always exists to “try before you buy” on the bar side. Too many wine bars in town are small and tucked away, almost hidden by retail. Not this one. MELLOW is all bar. Phil, it turns out, took courses at San Diego State’s comprehensive Business of Wine, and was in my lecture classes on Old World Wines. Nice success story for Wendy Evers of SDSU who founded and guided the course to where it is now…turning out students like Phil who go on to great things in the industry.

Hours at MELLOW are Monday through Saturday 11am to 11pm and Sunday 4pm to 11pm. Check out the web site for a constant stream of events, at www.mellowawinebar.com.

Washington 2nd to California in Wine Production

If you are seeking a wine “getaway” far from the traffic crush, consider the State of Washington with its more than 500 wineries. Washington wine country can be deceiving. Most of the wineries are clustered near Seattle, with its wet, damp and cool climate. But nearly all of the vineyards are in the dry, warm eastern part of the state, separated from Seattle by the Cascade mountain range. Areas like the Columbia Valley, Walla Walla, Red Mountain and Yakima produce winning Cabernet, Chardonnay, Merlot, Lemberger and Syrah.

Are the wines wonderful? Consider this: I attended a wine auction recently at the Museum of Photogaphic Arts in San Diego’s Balboa Park and recognized the lovely and often applauded Quilceda Creek, one of Washington’s finest. It was presented as a 100 point three-pack vertical (3 different vintages: ’02, ’03 and ’04) Cabernet Sauvignon. I kept bidding and gave up after the price zoomed to over $600.

Chateau San Michelle, founded in 1934 and based in Woodinville near Seattle, is the most known of the wineries. Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet are its most popular varietals. Their just-released White Riesling Columbia Valley ’06 just received a 97 point rating in Wine Spectator.

There is a lot of excitement at DiStefano Winery, also in Woodinville, as it claimed the title of Washington Winery of the Year, according to the Wine Press Northwest in its latest competition. Owner Mark Newton and winemaker Hillary Sjolund have come up with a luscious, spicy Syrah. Their 2003 version is from the Columbia Valley and is lovely to look at and beautifully knit to the taste. It’s actually a brilliantly conceived blend of 94% Syrah, 4% Viognier and 2% Cabernet. There is no better wine from Washington. Retail is $24.99.

The full story at www.distefanowinery.com.

Check out the latest website for Washington wines: www.washingtonwine.org.

Going Grape Temecula Wine Country Tours are Always Events

Going Grape Tour with Ray Falkner of Falkner Winery pouring.

by Frank Mangio

After a number of years in hospitality at Thornton Winery in Temecula, Ginger Giordano saw a space in the personal touring side of the Temecula Wine consumer experience. She knew that most wine lovers who come in to this thriving area, had no idea how to get the most out of this experience. Meantime she developed contacts at the wineries on a first-name basis and conceived a more intimate experience for wine country visitors.

“ I felt it was important to get customers what they wanted…a more personal wine tasting experience in a private or semi-private atmosphere, knowledge of the history and culture of the wines, in a relaxing atmosphere,” she said. “I take care of all the planning and transportation to each wine location. These wines in Temecula are produced on a level with Napa and Sonoma. We can offer you a balloon ride in a ‘fly and taste’ package. I have an association with Vallee d’ Brume for chocolates and desserts; and the Temecula Cheese Company will be happy to provide a platter of their cheeses, fruits and crackers. Our service includes pickup and delivery at your location…we just want the visitors to relax, and leave the driving and all other details to us.” Giordano has other ideas to make that next wine tour unforgettable. Learn more by calling 951-852-1923 or be accessing the web site at: www.goinggrape.com.


Aerate your Wines Without the Wait
It took me awhile to find out the story on the hot new product running around the wine circuit these days. It’s really a simple device that wine is poured through that creates an instant aeration, by drawing in air and velocity. It throws off a fascinating sound, like a waterfall, only it’s a pour of lovely red wine that gets lovelier to drink. It easily fits in the hand, with no power assist needed. It’s called a Vinturi! Made of glass, it eliminates the need to swirl and decant. It’s all done as it pours. The cost includes a stand and travel pouch. Locally, Wine Merchants in Carlsbad carries them for $44.99. There are special discounts for e mail and club members. Call for in questions at 760-804-9994.



Recommended ValueTastes
 Domaine du Caillou Red Rhone from Chateaneuf du Pape, 2005, $35. Beautifully crafted from the best vintage in France in years!
 Red Lava Lake County Syrah Reserve, 2004. $25. Rich tannins and good acidity, jammy blackberry mouth-feel.
 La Cereza Shiraz from Temecula, 2003. $ 18.95. Gold medaled at the Dallas competition. It’s Syrah, with a “down-under” look and feel.
 Peter Lehmann Clancy’s blend from Australia, 2004. $13. 90 point beauty from Wine Spectator. Mix of Shiraz, Cabernet and Merlot.
 Catena Malbec from Argentina, 2005. $15. From the fertile Mendoza area. 100 year-old family keeps re-defining Malbec at the foot of the Andes Mountains.

Coastal Carlsbad’s Winery: WitchCreek

Photo: Ryan Baker (left), along with two of the WitchCreek owners

by Frank Mangio

Ok, so I’ve been not seeing and tasting what’s under my nose. After four years and 160 or so wine columns, I have never stepped into a winery in my own home town of Carlsbad. My miss. A grape-growing friend of mine who has a virtual Italian vineyard laboratory in his back yard in Carlsbad, called to alert me to the fact that WitchCreek Winery, along the shore near downtown Carlsbad had just won double gold at the latest, prestigous San Francisco Chronicle Newspaper Wine Competition for its 2005 Nebbiolo.

Pete Anderson could hardly contain his excitement, as he is a contributing consultant for WitchCreek. The Italian grapes actually come up from the Guadalupe Valley of Mexico, under the watchful eye of the L.A. Cetto vineyard and winery and their world-renowned winemaker Camillo Magoni. I have interviewed this native Piedmont Italian sage, and he is a brilliant sculpture of Nebbiolo grapes. Camillo nurtured the winning Nebbiolo to display deep fruit, chocolate and a light berry hint. The bottle retails for $35. and is only available at the Carlsbad and Ramona locations for WitchCreek.

The winery has a history that dates back to 1993, founded by the Wodehouse family. Dave Wodehouse focused on handcrafted, full-bodied wines. He still pays an active role as Executive Winemaker and enjoys digging into some fascinating Italian style grapes, along with Ryan and Pete. They had me try a little know varietal from the Campania area of Italy: their 2006 Aglianico (pronounced ah-lian-eeco).

These grapes also came up from Camillo’s vineyard and sells for $20. The Greeks first introduced this grape to the area in and around Naples and the Amalfi Coast. A very dark color sets the stage for an earthy, chocolate accent. The Aglianico grape loves heat, so it does nicely in the Guadalupe Valley.

Other recent wines at WitchCreek include a just-bottled “Kathy’s Cuvee” a blend of five grapes ( $35.), and “Fat Cat Red,”a lovely everyday red wine ($10.). Check out WitchCreek Winery in Carlsbad and Ramona at www.witchcreekwinery.com.


The Latest in Temecula Wine Country

There always something new in Southern California’s Wine Country.

Stuart Cellars also did very well at the 200 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Their ’06 Syrah won double gold and best of class! Falkner’s ’06 Sauvignon Blanc also took a double gold and best of class. Maurice Carrie’s 2007 Sauvignon Blanc won gold. Congrats to all the winners from our closest wine country.

Oak Mountain Winery is the newest member of the winery association. Located on 10 acres just off DePortola Road and owned by Valerie and Steve Andrews, they emphasize Bordeuax varietals.

Easter festivities are coming to Wine Country and Falkner Winery has an annual brunch Sunday March 23 from 11am to 4pm at the Pinnacle Restaurant. Champagne and wine will be in abundance, as well as traditional cuisine from eggs to salmon. $54.95 per person and $24.50 for kids. RSVP at 951-676-8231. Ponte has its Easter Brunch from 11am to 3pm, with an Alice in Wonderland theme. Easter Egg Hunt for the kids. $70. per person, children $30. Call 800-931-6617.

Days of Wine and Roses - Valentines Day in Temecula

by Frank Mangio

Romance is alive and well in the vineyards of Temecula Wine Country as those wineries with a restaurant component are busy planning an evening to remember, not only on Thursday, February 14th, Valentines Day, but the day after, and on Saturday night the 16th.

South Coast Winery, Resort and Spa: A romantic setting in the Vineyard Rose with spectacular food pairings for their award-winning Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet and “Black Jack” Port. The “cupids” on staff will take care of your every need. $98. per person. Call in the RSVP at 951-587-9463.

Thornton Winery: Three locations to choose from with perfectly paired food and wine, with tray passed appetizers and Thornton NV Cuvee Rouge Champagne. View the menu on line at www.thorntonwine.com. $80. per person. RSVP at 951-699-0099.

Falkner Winery: A spectacular 4 course dinner in the Pinnacle Restaurant with Falkner’s best wines. Choice of beef or fish, plus port and champagne.
$95. per person. Reserve at 951-676-8231.

For Additonal Events, please email Frank Mangio

La Cereza Shines Silver

Temecula, Calif. / Feb. 1. 2008

Wine drinkers seeking to explore new and exciting worlds in the vast cosmos called the wine industry often find themselves overwhelmed by the seemingly infinite amount of wines available to them. Add to this conundrum a whole slew of promotional schemes by labels including point systems, critics’ reviews and shelf talkers…all aimed to assuage possible buyers to purchase their bottle of wine instead of the one next to it. Is your head spinning yet?

Well, just like any other competitive market, wineries have the ability to have their products rated objectively each year during a handful of annual wine competitions. One of largest of which is the annual San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Located at the doorstep of Napa Valley, wineries that earn medals during this wine competition consider it a huge feat, a right of passage, so to speak, in the wine world.

La Cereza Vineyard and Winery, located in Temecula Valley, is now the proud bearer of that title after winning silver medals in the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition for both their Sangiovese and Tempranillo red wines.
Judged next to wines from appellations long-recognized for excellence in red wine-making like Napa, Sonoma and Central Coast, La Cereza considers these awards a great honor as well as a testimony to their desire to produce high-quality wines capable of competing with the best.

The earning of a silver medal for their Tempranillo varietal is especially exciting for the Spanish-themed winery, as this grape is considered to be the quintessential Spanish grape, used to make the world-famous Rioja red wine.
“The choice to produce this wine here denotes the foresight of our winemaker to acquire tempranillo grapes from Guadalupe Valley,“ said Buddy Linn, owner of La Cereza. “This fruit is extremely high-quality and the outcome has been a very consistent and exceptional wine.”

La Cereza’s silver medal award for their Sangiovese is also remarkable, considering it’s the first year that the winery has ever produced this unique Italian varietal.
La Cereza winemaker Gus Vizgirda said he has long been honing in on his winery’s potential to produce excellent wines from Mediterranean grapes such as Tempranillo and Sangiovese.

“We have a very unique winemaking style here in the (Temecula) Valley and particularly at La Cereza,” said Vizgirda. “It’s based on the fact that we have a terroir here that is very similar to the Mediterranean, so although we may not be producing wines like the ones you’ll find up North, we’re confident and proud that we have a style that’s totally different and the quality is just as good.”

2008: An Inflection Point for Temecula Wines

by Frank Mangio

As a wine writer and observer, I am constantly on the look-out for movements, new dynamics, and answers to the question “what’s going on here.” It’s like gathering all the pieces of a puzzle together, observing the mosaic and realizing that an inflection point is here. Inflection points are upward movements on a curve at the point of the upward arc; I submit that this point is now at hand with the wines of Temecula.

Task Force Wine Country 2020 is a committee, formed by the Temecula Valley Wine Association to deal with the huge growth of the region as a viable and strong wine country estimating that some 2 million visitors will enjoy the vineyards, lodging and other attractions. The number of wineries is expected to grow to 60, with 15 more restaurants, 25 more bed and breakfast type facilities and 4 more large resorts. Traffic studies are being made with the cooperation of Riverside County to accommodate this growth.

The type of grapes grown, recent winemaker acquisitions and the quality of the wines have been impressive. So much so, the association has been emboldened to present a package of judged “80 points plus” wines from many of the wineries, 18 in all, to unveil to the wine world’s press. They will demonstrate Temecula’s readiness to be represented as a major wine country. I will be reviewing these wines and profiling them in a later column. One thing that struck me as I went through the list was the emphasis on Mediterranean grape varietals, such as Syrah, Sangiovese and Viognier as well as the traditional Cabernet Sauvignon.
Saturday and Sunday January 26 and 27 will be an opportune time to taste test for yourself, as Temecula’s annual Barrel Tasting event offers new releases prior to bottling. (See photo of South Coast’s Barrel Lady). You will be able to meet the winemakers from some 20 wineries and sample bistro style food. Tickets for the 2 day event are $85.00 per person for both days plus a souvenir wine glass. Call 951-699-3626 or access www.temeculawines.org.

While visiting, you might want to stop by a favorite restaurant, Café Champagne at Thornton Winery, where they have a sunset special on weekdays from Monday through Thursday from 3:30 to 5pm. The big buzz there is the return of Steve Pickell as Executive Chef with his fusion cuisine cooking techniques. He started there in 1993 and was in this position for 12 years where he was twice voted “Chef of the Year” by Southern California Restaurant Writers and California Writers Associations. He is teaming up with winemaker Don Reha for new menu pairing ideas.

Wines for your Must-Try List

by Frank Mangio

Over the holidays, I had the pleasure to attend parties, dinners at homes and lovely restaurants, as I am sure most of you did also. A select group of wines from the latest releases caught my eye and palate that I want to share with you.

My goal in wine consumption is to inventory a “core” group of wines that I can count on to be superior in taste and value, but leave about 40% of my wine budget for wine to “explore,” new wines that I not familiar with. The following would be “explore” wines that were very impressive:

§ Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc ‘07, Marlborough, New Zealand $20. Perennial favorite, focused citrus with crisp acidity.

§ Antinori Peppoli Chianti Classico ’04, Tuscany, Italy. $16. A surprisingly pleasant discovery from the one of the first families of wine in Italy. Smooth entry with lovely earthy mouthfeel.

§ Cuvaison Merlot ’01, Carneros, Napa Valley CA. (latest release is ’04) $29. Highly acclaimed, bright fruit, low production.

§ Elk Cove Pinot Noir ‘06, Willamette Valley Oregon. $29. Introduced to me by Sommelier Jesse Rodriguez at Addison, The Grand Resort, Del Mar. Careful hand-worked grapes from the Northwest Winery of the year.

Give Thanks to these Holiday Wines

The Fall season is always an exciting one for wines as new releases are brought to market and the current year’s harvest is completed. I understand that California from coast to coast had a banner harvest with little rain as an impediment and rich concentration of juice, with no overproduction. The only exception was the Pinot Noir crop. The dry weather has left vineyards scrambling for grapes to make this wine. The shortage of Pinot could lead to rising prices for this fragile grape. But we won’t be able to taste the goods for a year or two.

• San Diego Wine Company is touting the Chateau Bellisle Mondotte, St. Emilion Grand Cru Bordeaux, 2005, for just $28.95. ‘05 was an incredible year in France.
  
  
• Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Reserve 2004. Just out as the #9 wine in all the world from Wine Spectator at 95 points. $125. This was the last year that the Mondavis had a hand in the winemaking before being taken over. But wait…I just tasted the ’04 Mondavi Cab, not the reserve, but a rich, beautifully structured non-reserve wine, for just $20… your choice. Just don’t bother with the ’05: a stinging taste and flavor…ugly!
  
  
• Banfi Chianti Classico, 2005. Well balanced, easy to please the palate Sangiovese grape. Easy price at $10.
  
  
• Pedroncelli “Mother Clone” Zinfandel 2005. Sonoma’s most pleasing old vine Zin. Full-bodied classicDry Creek Valley wine. Just a touch of Petite Syrah for a bit more bang. “ Mother” is 100 year old vines. Great concentration. Worth a look at www.pedroncelli.com. $18.

Win a Cruise to Ensenada, Wine, Food, more This Saturday

Mention this blog entry when you visit the Taste Of Wine TV booth Saturday at the San Diego Bay Food and Wine Festival, and you can enter our special drawings for wine, dinners, and a Cruise to Ensenada. (Must be 21 or over to participate. (Winners will be contacted by cellphone during the festival via text messaging, or e-mail). Ensenada cruise courtesy of Kimberly at www.BraggAboutTravel.com

11:15 Falkner Winery, Temecula

11:30 Opolo Winery, Paso Robles

11:45 Pedroncelli Winery, Sonoma

12: noon Williamette Valley Winery, Oregon

12:30 Ghiardelli Chocolates

12:45 La Cereza, Temecula

1p.m. Nature Sweet

1:15 Vina Robles, Paso Robles

1:30 Flora Springs, Napa

Still time to get tickets for the biggest wine even on the West Coast:
www.WorldOfWineEvents.com