Monday, October 31, 2011

Champagne Day at Zinful, It’s Not Real Unless It’s French


On Friday we decided to have dinner at Smedlap Smithy in Waterville and then cap it off with some wine at Zinful just a couple of minutes away.
Green Dragon reminded me it was Champagne Day. She had seen it on the TWAV Facebook page and posted it would be a good day to have some Cava. Interesting logic!
I pointed out that Champagne isn’t just a generic term for sparkling wine and, in fact, that’s one of the reasons why Champagne Day was started. The Champagne Bureau states that more than 50 percent of sparkling wines in the US are mislabeled “Champagne.” Champagne Day was started to “celebrate authentic Champagne and raise awareness about the need to protect the Champagne name by blogging, tweeting and commenting on all things Champagne – which as you know, can only come from the Champagne region in France.” In fairness, there are some US producers who have been making Champagne in the traditional method for more than a century and have been “grandfathered” in.
Green Dragon knows all this about Champagne, but actually likes Cava more. As it turns out, the Cava she wanted at Zinful wasn’t available, so she had a very nice split of Moet & Chandon Imperial – a true French Champagne. In the photo you can see Zinful’s Michelle Brossia serving it up along with our tasty pumpkin torte.
Enhanced by Zemanta

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Barboursville Vineyards 2008 Virginia Cabernet Franc Reserve

A visit to the Gaylord National hotel in Washington DC provided me with a chance to again enjoy wine from one of Virginia’s most acclaimed wineries: Barboursville Vineyards. The National is actually across the Potomac in National Harbor, Maryland. But since I could see Virginia right across the river from our restaurant table, it was an opportune time to introduce the rest of our dinner group to Virginia wine.
We were at the Old Hickory Steak House, a classy restaurant with a diverse wine list. We enjoyed a Duckhorn Merlot to go with our cheese course and for our entrees I selected the 2008 Barboursville Reserve Cabernet Franc. I chose a salt brined pork chop while the rest of the group made their picks from the stellar lineup of steaks.
Virginia primarily hangs its hat on two main grape varieties: Cabernet Franc and Viognier. Viognier earned the title of official state wine – but their Cabernet Franc has won the hearts of many a wine drinker. Barboursville grows their Cab France from Bordeaux and Loire clones and the wine has a very polished European feel.
A signature of Cab Franc is the pepper taste that differentiates it from Cab Sauvignon (along with a lighter body). But pepper isn’t part of the flavor profile of the Barboursville Cab Franc. It is soft-pedaled while the ripe red berry flavors take center stage. The deep garnet wine also has wisps of caramel and fig. Aging for 14 months in French Oak adds complexity but never overwhelms the smooth approach and tongue tantalizing finish.
This is a smooth, sophisticated wine that is a great match for roasts and steak. It’s one of the very best wines I’ve tasted from Virginia. Rated **** of *****.
Enhanced by Zemanta

Friday, October 28, 2011

35° South 2010 Reserve Sauvignon Blanc

This is a value wine from Chile. Green Dragon loves Sauvignon Blanc, especially from the Marlborough region of New Zealand. She decided to explore new terrain and picked this bottle up for some casual evening sipping.
The name of the wine company alludes to the latitude of 35° South where the vineyards are located. 35° South is one of the labels of Vina San Pedro, which has been making wine in Chile for 150 years. San Pedro has some high end brands, but also produces Gato Negro, which is absolutely awful.
The grapes come from the Curicó and Elqui valleys, which is said to balance the fruitiness with minerality. The wine is aged In stainless steel tanks. Grapefruit and tropical fruit dominate this wine, but it is a pale shadow of a good, crisp Sauvignon Blanc. At $9 per bottle,what did you expect?
Chase the moths from your wallet and upgrade to a nicer Sauvignon Blanc! Rated *+ of *****.

Technorati Tags: ,,
Enhanced by Zemanta



Thursday, October 27, 2011

Duckhorn 2008 Napa Valley Merlot



A whirlwind business trip landed me at the Old Hickory Steak House in the Gaylord National in Washington, DC. Not only does the restaurant have a great wine list and well prepared food, but it also excels in cheese. Diners can open their meal with a cheese course with rare and delicious cheeses from around the globe.

The maître d’ of cheese had prepared a succulent selection of cheeses ranging from smooth and buttery cheese from France to award-winning blue veined cheese from Wisconsin. The cheeses were paired with local honey, a tangy cranberry spread and nuts. The challenge was to find a wine that would pair well with this spectrum of fromage.

My first inclination was to go for a Riesling, but nothing from the wine list jumped out at me. Instead I opted for a medium bodied red. I was going for a wine in the mid-point of the prices, but my host urged me to “not hold back.” I didn't need much urging and selected the Duckhorn 2008 Napa Valley Merlot. It’s a rich and rewarding wine that ranged into the triple digits on the wine list.

The wine is a blend of several Napa vineyards and so can be considered an “index wine” reflecting the best of the Napa 2008 vintage. It’s a deep wine that is a blend of 86% Merlot, 9.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3.5% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc. It has a velvet touch with a streak of earthiness. Red berries mingle with oak and blueberry in a complex blend.

Out the windows there was a spectacular view of the Potomac at night with the lights of Old Town Alexandria twinkling across the water and out the side window there was a view of the expansive Gaylord National atrium. The opening cheese course was sumptuous. I took bread, placed a slice of cheese on top and then a dollop of either honey or the cranberry. This was followed by a warming sip of the Duckhorn.

Duckhorn has a well deserved reputation for superb wines. It’s built upon outstanding wines like the Napa Valley Merlot. It’s an elegant wine that’s the right choice for an evening of fine dining. Rated **** of *****.

Technorati Tags: ,
Enhanced by Zemanta

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: October 26-29, 2011


Bookmark and Share
Wednesday, October 26
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Spooky Wine Tasting. 1. Killibinbin Shiraz/Cabernet, 2. Killibinbin Cabernet Sauvignon, 3. Vino Family Vineyards “Don Vino” Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 4. Orin Swift Abstract. $10 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Cabernet Sauvignons Wines. $15.

Thursday, October 27
The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. The Prisoner and other Orin Swift Wines
Orin Swift is one of the west coast’s premier winemakers. The Prisoner has captured the American wine drinkers imagination and taste buds. 1. Melville Chardonnay, 2. Melville Pinot Noir, Orin Swift Wines: 3. Saldo Zinfandel, 4. D – 66, 5. Abstract, 6. The Prisoner, 7. Papillon. Nominal fee per sample.
The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 5-7 PM. Wines and Liquor for Halloween. 1. Skeleton Gruner Veltliner, 2. Big Red Monster, 3. Seven Deadly Zins, 4. Fulton’s Pumpkin Pie Cream Liqueur. $2.25 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Cabernet Sauvignon. $15.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Special guest: Nick Kubiak from Pere Jacques Wine Imports. 1. Brandborg -- Pinot Blanc, 2.
Husch -- Pinot Noir, 3. E. Boeckel -- Pinot Noir, 4. Vino Con Brio -- Pinot Grigio, 5. Brandborg -- Pinot Gris. $2 per sample.

TREO Wine Bar, 5703 Main St., Sylvania, (419) 882-2266. Wine & Cheese Thursday. Explore the wonderful world of wine and cheese. Try four different wines with a sample platter of the day’s cheese.

Friday, October 28
* Special Event * Toledo Museum of Art Wine by the Glass Pavilion series: Veneto! Wines from Northern Italy. 7:00 to 9:30 PM in the Glass Pavilion. Enjoy four wines, light snacks, and a view of glassmakers working in the Hot Shop. Prices are $15 for members and $20 for nonmembers.
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. California Cabernet Sauvignon: 1. Alias Cabernet, 2. Fox Glove Cabernet, 3. BV Napa Cabernet, 4. Franciscan Cabernet. $10 tasting.

Saturday, October 29
* Special Event * Toledo Zoo Halloween Vineyard Adventure Saturday, 7:00 to 11:00 PM, in the Nairobi Pavilion. Wine tasting, hors d'oeuvres, and dancing. Guests are encouraged to wear costumes and masks for costume contest. Tickets $40 non-members and $35 for Zoo members. Reservations can also be made by calling 419-385-5721, Ext. 3092. Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. Online sales of tickets are discontinued at 3:00 PM on the day before the event. You may purchase tickets online here.
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. California Cabernet Sauvignon: 1. Alias Cabernet, 2. Fox Glove Cabernet, 3. BV Napa Cabernet, 4. Franciscan Cabernet. $10 tasting.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6-9 PM “Halloween tasting! Creepy crawly things ‘n such!” Cost is $15.

AREA WINE BARS
  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • Vino 100 Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 866-8466, Promenade West, 3355 Briarfield Blvd, Suite C, Maumee.
  • Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.
Technorati Tags:
[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
Enhanced by Zemanta

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Bliss Family Vineyards Schoolhouse Red, Mendocino


Schoolhouse Red is the “pizza and pasta” wine from Bliss Family Vineyards, whose winery in California's Mendocino County dates back to the 1930s.
The wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Merlot and Syrah. I had passed by this wine every morning for about a month as I stopped into Walt Churchill’s Market in Perrysburg to get my morning muffin on the way to work. Green Dragon had made a comment that she didn’t know what wine to drink and didn’t want to open a “special” bottle accidentally.
So I grabbed this bottle for a casual sipper. At $12, it seemed a small price to pay to finally know what that bottle I saw on the closeout shelf each work day tastes like.
Alas, we didn’t pair this with pizza, but instead uncorked it while I caught the latest episode of Top Shot. Although the guns were blazing on the show, the wine seemed to miss the target. It was tight and unremarkable.
A couple days later we poured a couple glasses and were surprised. The glass offered up the flavor of warm berries with a touch of tartness and a medium to long finish. Bull's-eye!
This is an enjoyable non-vintage wine that’s a good value. Rated **+ of *****.
Technorati Tags:
Enhanced by Zemanta

Monday, October 24, 2011

20th Annual Wine Affair to Benefit Kidney Foundation Scheduled November 18 at Parkway Place

The 20th Annual Wine Affair will take place Friday, November 18, at Parkway Place in Maumee beginning at 6:30 PM. Master of Ceremonies is Chrys Peterson of WTOL Channel 11. Honorary Chairman is Jim Murray. Wine Chair is Austin Beeman of Walt Churchill’s Market.
The Wine Affair includes a silent auction, a live auction conducted by auctioneer Beth Rose and a sampling of fine wines from area wine distributors. Appetizers will be supplied by notable area restaurants including: Abuelos, Bar 145, Edible Arrangements, Kotobuki, Manhattans, Sofo’s, Super Suppers, the Melting Pot, Wixey Bakery and Zoup!
Tickets are $90 per person until November 11 and $100 thereafter. To register online go to www.kfnwo.org or call (419) 329-2196. The event is black tie optional.
Photo by Jessica Melling
Technorati Tags:
Enhanced by Zemanta

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Halloween Vineyard Adventure October 29 at Toledo Zoo

Friendly pumpkin

Image via Wikipedia

The Toledo Zoo has scheduled its annual Halloween Vineyard Adventure Saturday, October 29, from 7:00 to 11:00 PM. The Nairobi Pavilion will be transformed into a classy yet mystical setting with jack-o-lanterns and macabre décor. There will be a delectable mix of wine tasting, hors d'oeuvres, socializing, and dancing to your favorite tunes.

Guests are encouraged to wear your favorite costumes and masks to get into the spirit of the evening. There will be a costume contest, and photos by Photobooth Live.

The Toledo Zoo’s Corporate Gifts department will provide a wide assortment of gourmet foods, wines, and other great gifts for additional purchase.

Tickets are $40 per person for non-members and $35 for Zoo members. Reservations can also be made by calling 419-385-5721, Ext. 3092. Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance.

Please note: tickets purchased during the week prior to the event will be available through will call. Online sales of tickets are discontinued at 3:00 PM on the day before the event. You may purchase tickets online here.

Technorati Tags:

Friday, October 21, 2011

Lone Oak Vineyard Plans Trip To Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on November 20

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame at sunset; Clevelan...

Image via Wikipedia

Lone Oak Vineyard Estate, 8400 Ann Arbor, Grass Lake, Michigan, is presenting “Wine, Women and Song: A Trip to The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They are sending out a call to all "hippy chicks" and music lovers for a day trip to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland to see their special exhibit, “Women Who Rock: Vision, Passion, Power” on November 20. 

The group will depart from Lone Oak Vineyard Estate at 8:00 AM via luxury motor coach and arrive at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by noon or before, stopping for a short break along the way. For those living in the Detroit area, there will be an alternate pick up point in the Livonia area to save you the drive to Grass Lake.

Lunch can be purchased at the Rock Hall Cafe and you'll have ample time to see the "Women Who Rock" exhibit - along with any others you'd care to see. The bus will leave the museum in time to get back to Lone Oak by 8:00 PM.

The trip includes:

  • Luxury motor coach transport from Lone Oak Vineyard Estate or alternate pick up location in the Livonia area, to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and back.
  • Admission to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
  • 2 glasses of Lone Oak Vineyard Estate Wine along the way
  • Fun and camaraderie with your fellow wine and music lovers
  • Ticket price is $65 per person

Call (517)522-8167 for reservations - seating is limited. The registration deadline is November 1.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Row Eleven 2008 Vinas 3 Pinot Noir


A recent trip to Louisville provided a serendipitous chance to eat at a favorite restaurant, Proof on Main. The restaurant blends culinary traditions of Italy and the American South it also adjoins the 21c modern art museum so it is a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.
For the wine selection, my friend Gary and I opted for a wine neither of us had tried before, the Row Eleven 2008 Three Vineyards Pinot Noir.
Row Eleven is a California winemaker with a focus on Pinot. They make Pinots including Santa Maria and Russian River wines. Vinas 3 is a blend of Sonoma, Santa Barbara and Monterey vineyards.
The first sip seemed a bit tight. As we enjoyed our first course of butternut squash soup with chocolate brioche, cilantro and green curry, we were pleased to notice that the versatile Vinas 3 was a nice pairing.
My main course was Iowa Berkshire pork with honey crisp apple, rye and pecan. Gary opted for the Pacific Sturgeon. By this time the wine had opened up beautifully. Pinot and pork is a heavenly combination and this certainly is the case when enjoyed with friends in a sensational restaurant. The Pinot was also a good match for the tasty sturgeon.
The Vinas 3 was smooth with rich cherry flavors, light tannins and a tasty finish. It seems single vineyard or block wines are all the rage now, but this wine shows that skillful blending of regional grapes can artfully capture the taste of California Pinot Noir.
Enhanced by Zemanta

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Wine Tastings & Events: October 19-22, 2011

Zinfandel grapes ripening on a vine in Amador ...
Image via Wikipedia
Bookmark and Share
Wednesday, October 19
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Taste some of the Cave's past wines of the month. $15.

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6-9 PM. Wine Tasting. Merlot. Cost is $15.

Thursday, October 20
The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Ports, Sherrys and Madera, Oh my! 1. Morande’ – Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc – Casablanca Valley, Chile, 2. Feist Madera – Island of Madera, Portugal, 3. Pedro Romero – Moscatel Sherry, Mazanilla, Spain, 4. 2005 Grahams LBV – Portugal. $5 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Petite Sirah
Inky dark full firm red wine. 1. Guenoc Napa Petite Sirah, 2. Lava Cap Eldorado Reserve Petite Sirah, 3. McNabb Ridge Petite Sirah, 4. Niner Paso Robles Petite Sirah, 5. Two Angels High Valley Petite Sirah, 6. True Grit Mendocino Petite Sirah, 7. La Storia Alexander Valley Petite Sirah, 8. Girard Napa Valley Petite Sirah. Added attraction: Bogle Petite Sirah Limited Release Port. Nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Taste some of the Cave's past wines of the month. $15.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Great wines at great prices. Special guest: Diana Kerr-Brown from Wine Trends. 1. Ken Forrester Chenin Blanc from South Africa, 2. Ken Forrseter Red Blend from South Africa, 3. Four Vines Naked Chardonnay from Santa Barbara, CA., 4. Four Vines Old Vine Cuvee Zin from California. $1 per sample.

TREO Wine Bar, 5703 Main St., Sylvania, (419) 882-2266. Wine & Cheese Thursday. Explore the wonderful world of wine and cheese. Try four different wines with a sample platter of the day’s cheese.

Friday, October 21
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. French Wines: 1. Ch. De L'Hyverniere Muscadet, 2. 1996 Roux Pere & Fils Puligny Montrachet, 3. Gerard Bertrand GSM, 4. Baron de Rothschild Bordeaux. $10 tasting.


Saturday, October 22
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. French Wines: 1. Ch. De L'Hyverniere Muscadet, 2. 1996 Roux Pere & Fils Puligny Montrachet, 3. Gerard Bertrand GSM, 4. Baron de Rothschild Bordeaux. $10 tasting.

The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. Zinfandel Based Reds: 1. Menage Red, 2. Gnarly Head, Authentic Red, 3. Primal Roots Red, 4. Shannon Ridge Wrangler Red. $2 per flight or nominal fee per sample. Note: Beginning October 27, our wine tastings will move to Thursdays from 5:00 to 7:00 PM.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6-9 PM “Wine that should be drank with wine.” Cost is $15.

AREA WINE BARS
  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • Vino 100 Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 866-8466, Promenade West, 3355 Briarfield Blvd, Suite C, Maumee.
  • Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.
Technorati Tags:
[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
Enhanced by Zemanta

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Italian Wines Featured in Wine By The Glass Pavilion Tasting

By Glorious T, TWAV Tasting Team Member
toledo glass pavilion - sanaa
Image by prkbkr via Flickr
It was a beautiful October evening. We had two guests in town and had spent the week going to nice restaurants, so were ready for something a little different.

We decided to visit the Toledo Museum of Art’s Glass Pavilion for their wine tasting event. The museum is impressive to visitors and our guests immediately loved the look and feel of the all-glass structure and the hot shop was a hotspot of activity since master glass maker Mark Matthews was presenting. The night’s event was being held under the stars in the courtyard. 55 Degrees reps from Cleveland, along with the museum’s wonderful event staff were ready to pour a selection of Venetian wines. In addition, there was a wonderful spread of diverse appetizers including a type of pineapple crab cake, asparagus spears with prosciutto, and other delectable treats – plenty of food to go along with the wine. Following are tasting notes on the evening’s offerings:

1. Vignalta Colle Euganei Chardonnay 2007 (Chardonnay from the Padova Hills “Colli Euganei”) Distinct apricot and pear notes, slight oak on the front with a bitter finish. Did not appeal to our group of tasters, but they are not normally chardonnay lovers anyway.

2. Novaia Valpolicella Classico Ripasso (Blend of Corvina-Rondinella “Appasimento” style) We were immediately taken aback when the wine was served chilled, very chilled. Fruity front which dissipated immediately into a completely nonexistent finish.

3. Bastianich Vespa Roso (Blend of Merlot-Refosco-Cabernet Sauvignon-Cabernet Franc) I could deal with the first two, anticipating that glory was on its way. When attending wine tastings, I fully expect to get through the first two before discovering something delicious. This bold, full-bodied blend was worth the wait. The Cab Franc pops immediately with a smooth and luxurious feel that is enhanced by the bold peppers. Very strong middle, it was noted, because this is unusual – we usually expect the front and the finish, but this wine was pronounced all the way through and finished soft and dry. We practically raced to the tasting station for a second glass.

4. Novaia Recioto Della Valpolicella (Blend of Corvina-Rondinella Late Harvest) Dessert wine – well, not exactly. We were told that Italians drink this like water by the gallon, beginning first thing in the morning – sure wish this was acceptable in this country;) What a wonderful surprise – this was indeed my type of dessert wine. Strong and beautiful mocha chocolate bouquet with a port style front. Not at all syrupy, just a really pleasant and smooth drink. A great wine to wrap up the tasting.

We enjoyed the dessert wine in the hotshop and watched a bit of the demonstration. It was a great way to end a pleasant evening. The museum even focused on a Venetian glass collection to go along with the evening’s theme. The wine tasting events occur a few times throughout the year (check http://www.toledomuseum.org/glass-pavilion for dates and details). Highly recommended as a special evening out, or just something different to kick off the weekend for just $20 ($15 for members). The museum event staff is extremely hospitable and accommodating, and they pay attention to the details necessary to keep guests coming back for more.

Technorati Tags: ,,
Enhanced by Zemanta

Monday, October 17, 2011

2006 Schloss Reinhartshausen Old Vines Riesling


This is a superb German Riesling sampled and enjoyed by a group of friends on the patio around the fire pit.
Schloss Reinhartshausen is the largest privately owned wine estate in Rheingau and this offering is the product of 40 year-old vines planted in the Hoherain vineyard. 

The initial reaction is “wow” as you savor the interplay of sweetness and acidity. It’s finished in the “off dry” style but the acidity keeps the sweetness in good balance. That fact made this popular with both fans of dry Riesling and those who avoid acidic wines.

The palate is dominated by white peach with a nice tapestry of citrus flavors that prance around as you drink. There is moderate minerality to add complexity and a much fuller body than you may expect from a Riesling. Watery this is not.

It’s a wine that generated a lot of discussion around the fire. This is a gem of a Riesling that I purchased online for a special price of only $14 (an unbelievable value). This heavenly Germanic elixir copped a ***** rating out of *****.

Technorati Tags: ,
Enhanced by Zemanta

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Blog Action Day: Best Food Memory

By Glorious T, TWAV Tasting Team Member
Since 2009, Toledo Wines and Vines has participated in Blog Action Day, which focuses bloggers around the world to blog about one important global topic on the same day.This year, Blog Action Day will be held on October 16, which coincides with World Food Day, so naturally our 2011 theme is food.
We use food to mark times of celebration and sorrow. Lack of access to food causes devastating famines, while too much is causing a generation of new health problems. It can cost the world, or be too cheap for farmers to make a living. Today Glorious T shares her favorite food memory. – Editor
I have a personal philosophy about food – I would rather have a small amount of something wonderful than a large plate of something that’s just pretty good. Therefore, I especially love tapas. It’s fun to gather with a group of people and select from different categories to create a delicious and diverse experience that is shared among friends. When spending our annual vacation at the beach we enjoy a feast of fresh mahi-mahi, grouper, and tuna and then visit a nice restaurant a couple of times during the week.
This past summer we spent an evening in Wilmington NC and based on rave reviews from locals we chose Circa 1922. We shared uniquely presented and highly creative small plates such as wild mushroom strudel and crabmeat cheesecake – both of which I’ve since tried to duplicate. The wine list was fabulous, offering a wide expanse of both unique and familiar choices. Surprisingly, the food appealed to the diverse palates in our group of adults, non-meat eaters, finicky college students, and an Irishman. Everyone was raving about their choices, although there was some apprehension upon ordering. A bonus when ordering tapas – you generally have room for dessert.
The college students chose to leave and headed for the local ice cream parlor. They missed out because the rest of us opted to share both the Colossal Crème Brule and the Bananas Foster with Myers’ Dark Rum Sauce. Wow! No small plates for dessert, both were served in baking dishes normally used to serve a family dinner! There aren’t enough adjectives to describe these divine treats. It was a fabulous ending to an incredibly fun and refreshing vacation with family. Food brings us together, and provides beautiful lasting memories.
Technorati Tags: ,
Enhanced by Zemanta




Saturday, October 15, 2011

Jose Maria Da Fonseca 2006 Periquita


Periquita is considered the national wine of Portugal. It's a blend of mostly Castelão Frances grapes, which thrives in southern Portugal, plus Trincadeira and Tempranillo. This European gem is from the Terras do Sado region in the southwestern part of the country.

It has been around for more than 150 years, being created by Jose Maria da Fonseca in 1850. This namesake company has become synonomous with this highly regarded wine.

We selected this bottle for an Indian Summer evening around the firepit on the patio. This is a wine with a full bouquet that is rich and spicy but a medium body. The flavors are red berries and cigar box. The tannins are soft and it provides a nicely balanced drink with an enjoyable finish of medium duration.

The firepit crowd loved this wine, especially with some nice chocolate (not too dark). Even the weather conditions were cooperating with us -- no wind to blow the smoke in our eyes.

The Portugese have a good thing going. I picked this wine up at Churchill's for only $12, but it drinks like a wine two or three times the cost. Rated **** of *****.


Enhanced by Zemanta

Friday, October 14, 2011

Fly Fishing and Ohio Wine Highlight Fly the Alley Event

Green Highlander salmon fly. The hook length i...
Image via Wikipedia
Northeast Ohio's Steelhead Alley is highly regarded as a fly fishing hotspot for professional guides and local enthusiasts alike. Now the Ohio Wine Producers Association and The Lodge & Conference Center at Geneva are proud to present a sporting expo focused on all that Northeast Ohio has to offer the avid angler – including great wine.


The Fly the Alley event is scheduled Saturday, November 12, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Fly fishing enthusiasts are encouraged to grab their waders and join in a day
full of seminars by our featured professionals, hands-on tying and casting workshops, wall-to-wall sporting exhibits and vendors and wine and culinary programs.
Attendees will get the ins and outs of Steelhead Alley, discover new techniques and brush-up on old ones. You will also be able to check out the latest and greatest from exhibitors and outfitters, learn culinary techniques for preparing your catch and explore regional wines to complement your feast.
The cost for an Expo Day Pass is $15 per person. (Includes Saturday Expo entry only.) A gourmet box lunch is available for $10.
Gourmet Dinner Reception tickets are available for $50 and Include a three-course meal, beverages, wines, keynote speech by Jerry Darkes and live entertainment by Steve Madewell.
For day passes, contact the Ohio Wine Producers Association at 800-227-6972 or online here.
Weekend passes, which includes two-night lodging and breakfast, a welcome wine event, event passes and more are available by contacting the Lodge at Geneva at (866) 806-8066.

Technorati Tags: ,
Enhanced by Zemanta

Thursday, October 13, 2011

The Joys of Regional Wine: In 47 Words

October 9 through 15 is Regional Wine Week. The event is promoted by DrinkLocalWine.com, which focuses on wine made in places other than California, Washington and Oregon which are the giants in United States wine production.

Part of the festivities includes a contest to sum up the lure and reward of regional wines – but do it in exactly 47 words (to represent those other wine producing states). We’re completely behind this effort and consider it a great service to the wine-loving public.

You’ll notice that our editorial content consists of: 1. Toledo area wine events and tastings, 2. Reports on regional wineries and wines, and 3. Tasting notes on wines that interest us from around the country and the world.

We dish this out in mostly equal portions and for our purposes we define regional wineries as those within a day’s drive of Toledo. We also feature a list of wineries within 100 miles of Toledo and believe those deserve special attention from those in Northwest Ohio.

And now, here it is – freshly fermented and bottled for you – our 47-word praise of regional wine…

Genuine. Authentic. Rooted deep in the soil of states like Ohio, Michigan , Indiana , Virginia , Texas, Colorado and areas like Ontario and the Finger Lakes. People and grapes blend harmoniously together in regional wines that are real with quality that can surprise. Pour a glass!

Whaddaya think?
Enhanced by Zemanta

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Wine Tastings & Events: October 12–15, 2011


Bookmark and Share
Wednesday, October 12
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Entwine.The Entwine line is a cooperative effort between the Food Network and Wente Vineyards. These are all wines specifically designed to pair with a wide variety of foods, and delivering great bang for the buck. 1. Entwine Pinot Grigio, 2. Entwine Chardonnay, 3. Entwine Merlot, Entwine Cabernet Sauvignon. $8 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Fire-pit Friendly Wines. October 12th is also Matt's birthday so give the gift of job security and attend this tasting and buy a lot of great juice. $15.

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6-9 PM. Wine Tasting. How easy it is to pair wines with food? A 101 on how to with wine and food! Cost is $15.

Thursday, October 13
The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Great Red Blends under $20. 1. Lyeth – Meritage – Sonoma County, California, 2. Stelzner – Claret – Napa Valley, California, 3. Piccolo Cru’ – Napa Valley, California, 4. Estancia – Meritage – Paso Robles, California. $5 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. All Roads Lead To Rhone: Elegant Red Wine Blends From the South of France. 1. Domaine Grand Veneur Les Champauvins Cote du Rhone 2009, 2. Monterius Vacqueyras Garrigues 2008, 3. Domaine de la Tourade Gigondas 2008, 4. Domaine du Terme Gigondas 2007, 5. Domaine Raspail-Ay Gigondas 2008, 6. La Crau de Ma Mere Charteauneuf du Pape 2006, 7. Cuvee du Vatican Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve Sixtine 2006. Nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Fire-pit Friendly Wines. $15.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Wines from Longboard Vineyards, hosted by Telisa Delligatta from Tramontes & Sons. Along and Tom Clare, who is the Eastern National Sales Manager for Longboard Vineyards. 1. 2010 Sauvignon Blanc (Russian River Valley), 2. 2008 Point Break Red, 3. 2008 Syrah, 4. 2008 Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley), 5. 2008 Dakine Merlot. $2 per sample.

TREO Wine Bar, 5703 Main St., Sylvania, (419) 882-2266. Wine & Cheese Thursday. Explore the wonderful world of wine and cheese. Try four different wines with a sample platter of the day’s cheese.

Friday, October 14
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Chardonnay (Stainless vs. Oak!): 1. Big Brook Unwooded Chardonnay, 2. Mer Soleil Unoaked Chardonnay, 3. Ferrari-Carano Chardonnay, 4. Gregory Graham Chardonnay. $10 tasting.


Saturday, October 15
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Chardonnay (Stainless vs. Oak!): 1. Big Brook Unwooded Chardonnay, 2. Mer Soleil Unoaked Chardonnay, 3. Ferrari-Carano Chardonnay, 4. Gregory Graham Chardonnay. $10 tasting.

The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. Saturday Wine Tasting. Greek Wines: 1. Tsantali Roditis Rosé, 2. Kouros Patros White, 3. Kouros Nemea Red, 4. Samos Muscat. $2.25 per flight or nominal fee per sample. Note: Beginning October 27, our wine tastings will move to Thursdays from 5:00 to 7:00 PM.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6-9 PM Wine tasting with special guest. Cost is $15.

AREA WINE BARS
  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • Vino 100 Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 866-8466, Promenade West, 3355 Briarfield Blvd, Suite C, Maumee.
  • Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.
Technorati Tags:
[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
Enhanced by Zemanta

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Pigs & Pinot 2 Scheduled October 12 At Mancy’s Italian Grill

pig

 

The versatility of pork will be highlighted as chefs prepare dishes to be paired with three Pinot Noirs during the Pigs & Pinot 2 event taking place October 12, beginning at 6:30 PM at Mancy’s Italian Grill, 5453 Monroe St., Toledo.  

The three Pinot Noirs are Wild Hog and Drew Family Gatekeeper, both from California, and Sineann Primal, made in the state of Oregon but bottled exclusively for the Ohio market. The wines were selected by Adam Mahler, owner of the wine sales and marketing firm ampelography. For those who find a new beverage favorite at the event, the featured wines and beers will be available for retail sale at Pigs & Pinot 2.

Ticket are $80 per person, all inclusive, and are limited. Reservations can be made by calling (419) 882-9229.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Monday, October 10, 2011

Tawse Winery 2010 Quarry Road Vineyard Gewürztraminer, Vinemount Ridge VQA


One of our favorite places is Tawse Winery in Vineland, Ontario. The vibe is just right from the striking architecture of the building to the upscale tasting room with a majestic view of the tank room.
Of course the main delight is the outstanding wine. During our last visit there (during TasteCamp North) we were treated to a special tour and tasting with winemaker Paul Pender.
The wines were superb and the best of the bunch, was the 2010 Quarry Road Vineyard Gewürztraminer.
Gewurztraminer is on of my favorite wines. Green Dragon, a former Gewurz lover, recently decided she didn’t like it any
more because of too much rose petal flavor.
This Gewurz is quite different in approach with an accent of minerality and lychee. There is also a dash of spice and lemon zest.
We uncorked this bottle around the fire pit and Jazzman commented that he was ready to dig into some spicy hot wings from BW3.
This wine is also biodynamic and organic, something in which Pender and Tawse take great pride. Uncorking this bottle for me also uncorked the sights and smells of the vineyard as we strode around in the morning fog while Paul explained subtleties of the terroir and the quirks of biodynamic winemaking.
Soul, depth and character sum up this outstanding Gewurztraminer – one of the best I’ve ever had!
Rated ***** out of *****.
Enhanced by Zemanta

Saturday, October 8, 2011

Vino Family Vineyards 2004 Syrah, Sonoma County

Review by Dr. J, TWAV Tasting Team Member
Dr. J was looking forward with great anticipation to opening a 2000 California Merlot that he recently acquired from a co-worker. Turns out the wine was past its prime, but luckily he had a back-up bottle…
Instead, I opened a bottle of Vino Family Syrah. I have recently become addicted to Lot 18. They give me credits for different things all the time, and I feel the need to use them (genius, right?). I got a deal on a duo of one of my favorite grapes.
My perfect Syrah is very dark, inky, and complex. This really didn't fit any of those criteria, yet it still managed to be a wonderful wine. This is a lighter body Syrah. The best description is very cherry!
The nose was full of cherry, violets, and spice. The palette was dominated by cherry once again, with remnants of cassis and a tart finish. I definitely enjoyed this and have no regrets of having a second bottle to consume.