Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Gainey Vineyard: Santa Barbara County Winery Visit

Gainey Vineyard in California’s Santa Ynez Valley rocks, rolls and thankfully made it on our list during our recent trip.

Green Dragon and I had been in San Diego where I had a board meeting. We took the train north and met up with my cousin Mary and her husband Cleve. We then sped off (somewhat silently) in their Chevy Volt for wine country in Santa Barbara County.

Our reservations were at the Hamlet Inn in Solvang, a funky Danish-inspired town. Luckily
Mary’s a good navigator and pointed out that our path would swing near Gainey – a winery that was highly recommended.

The afternoon was waning, but we still had more than an hour of tasting time. The Volt was plugged in and was soon filling up with juice. The same could soon be said for us.

We began with the 2009 Limited Selection Santa Ynez Valley Sauvignon Blanc. This wine is blended with Semillon, a classic combination. Although pleasing, it wasn’t special.

The 2009 Limited Selection Chardonnay was smooth and bright. The wine is finished for 10 months in French Oak and has just the right component of oakiness. Malolactic fermentation adds a rich, creamy mouthfeel.

We began to find our groove with the 2009 Limited Selection Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir. It has mild aromas of strawberry and black cherry. The mid-bodied wine is balanced with a touch of spice. This is only available at the winery and retails for $48.

Jammy with berries and plum is how our quartet described the 2009 Limited Selection Santa Ynez Valley Merlot. It’s a lavish wine that has a long, rich finish. That makes it a crowd favorite. The wine is blended with a dash of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.

The 2008 Limited Selection Syrah has an edge of earthiness with a healthy streak of spice riding atop black cherry and blackberry. It is smooth on the finish with chocolate flavor notes. The fruit for this wine came from six different vineyards during a very difficult harvest – which resulted in a reduced crop, but more intense flavor.

Our finale was the 2010 Limited Selection Riesling. Green Dragon and I love Riesling, especially when done dry. This wine meets the criteria with a 0.9% residual sugar. This wine retails for only $15 and would be a fantastic pairing with spicy food. Honeysuckle and peach predominate.

Gainey Vineyard is part of a large sustainable family farming operation. The Home Ranch, an 1,800-acre spread in Santa Ynez, has 100 acres of vineyard, Arabian horses, 1,000 acres of rangeland and 600 acres of organic fruits and vegetables.

The winery produces 18,000 cases annually with a focus on wines with optimum flavor and aromatics that reflect the unique characteristics of the vineyards. It’s considered one of the best wineries in California’s Central Coast. There is a unique tasting room (actually two), a great giftshop and beaucoup vines right out the back door.
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Monday, January 30, 2012

Santa Barbara County Wine Country

Is there life beyond Napa and Sonoma? Yes indeed, and the wine there is pretty tasty.

We recently visited 10 wineries in Santa Barbara County and found the wine to be top shelf and the area a beautiful place to visit – without the gridlock and tour buses of some other major wine destinations.

Santa Barbara County is part of the sprawling Central Coast appellation in California which extends from San Jose in the north to Santa Barbara in the south. It lies along 250 miles of rolling seacoast. The climate is mostly ideal for wine grapes and varieties from southern France, Italy and Spain thrive here.

Within Santa Barbara County there are five AVAs: Santa Maria Valley, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Rita Hills, Ballard Canyon and Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara.

Santa Barbara County is unique because of the unusual mountain configuration with an east-west orientation. The valleys open directly to the Pacific Ocean. This allows the inland flow of fog and ocean breezes, resulting in one of the coolest winegrowing regions in California. The growing season here is longer than other growing areas, allowing the grapes to have an unusually long “hang time” on the vine. This results in some world class wines.

During our recent trip we visited 10 wineries: Arcadian Winery, Buttonwood Farm Winery, Foxen 7200, Gainey Vineyard, Koehler Winery, Lincourt Vineyards, Palmina, Rancho Sisquoc Winery, Rideau Winery & Vineyards and Zaca Mesa Winery & Vineyards.

Along the way we found excellent wine, funky restaurants, great towns and beautiful scenery. Stay tuned as we being our series of reports in the days ahead.
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Saturday, January 28, 2012

Coopers Creek 2008 Marlborough Pinot Gris


After the second glass of this wine, Green Dragon commented that it “didn’t taste like the other Sauvignon Blancs.” With good reason.
This wine is a horse of another color, unlike the Sauvignon Blanc for which this New Zealand region is well known.
The Coopers Creek Pinot Gris is full bodied with a dusky gold color. It is a fine example of the Pinot Gris style, which has more stoutness than lighter, fruiter Pinot Gris although made from the same grape.
Exotic with flavor notes of pear, this wine has a thread of earthiness that adds to its refreshing character. There are undertones of minerality. It has 13% alcohol.
Coopers Creek is a family owned winery that began operation in 1980. Eighty percent of their wine is sold outside New Zealand in more than 25 countries.
It is a refreshing wine that has gained complexity since we first tried it more than a year ago.
Rating: 3 of 5
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Friday, January 27, 2012

Kacaba 2007 Reserve Cab Franc, Niagara Escarpment VQA

Wine Review by Dr. J
This past weekend, Casey and I opened a bottle we brought back from Canada last April. The 2007 Kacaba Reserve Cab Franc is the first and most expensive wine I purchased in the Niagara Escarpment VQA. I believe this was a $50 bottle. I normally don't buy too many bottles like this, but it was early in the trip, and boy am I glad I did!
We were told that they had just recently won an award for the best Cab Franc in Canada. I now concur. This is quite possibly the best I've had within 1,500 miles of Ohio! The wine is single vineyard and estate grown.
On the nose is tobacco, black current, spices, and toasty oak. On the palate is intense cherry, mint, and even chocolate. At 14.2%, it still did not come across as hot. This would be great with many dishes, but we chose to drink it on its own. I was very pleased, giving it 4 out of 5 overall and 5 stars for east of the Rockies!
Rating: 4 out of 5
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Thursday, January 26, 2012

Santa Cristina 2009 Antinori Sangiovese Toscana


This is a smooth wine that blends a young Sangiovese with 10% Merlot. The wine is ruby red and has entertainingly long legs.

The wine opens with a nice bouquet of cherries and berries. On the palate it is well balanced with a twinge of raspberries. Ace of Bass was visiting to help with the tasting and provided this colorful description of the finish. “There’s a little push then it zings away. It’s soft again at the finish and dissipates in a tangy way.”

It was at that point that we cut him off. (Just kidding!)

That’s a nice description of a value-packed wine. This bottle was picked up online for less than $10 and boasted a 90-plus rating.

This didn’t dazzle me the way other Sangiovese has – but it was enjoyable nonetheless. Santa Cristina fills the bill for a smooth and harmonious glass – but don’t expect a high-end evening in Tuscany.

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Rating: 3 of 5

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: January 25-28, 2012

A set up of Merlot wine tasting
Image via Wikipedia
Wednesday, January 25
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

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

Thursday, January 26

The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. More Great Closeouts: 1. Bouchard Aine & Fils – Macon-Villages – Burgundy, France, 2. Genesis by Hogue – Chardonnay – Columbia Valley, WA, 3. Napa Cellars – Pinot Noir – Napa Valley, CA, 4. Cameron Hughes – Field Blend – Geyserville, CA. $4 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Marvelous Merlots: 1, Swanson Napa, 2. Rutherforn Hill Napa, 3. Trinchero Chicken Ranch Vineyard Rutherford, Napa, 4. Sineann Columbian Valley, 5. Delectus Napa, 6. Plumjack Napa, 7. Pride Sonoma-Napa . Nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 5-7 PM.CLOSEOUT WINES, PART II: 1. Si Soave Italia, 2. Wattle Creek Sauvignon Blanc, 3. Giorgio & Gianni “Red” Lambrusco, 4. Ravenswood Barricia Zinfandel. $2.25 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

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

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Nominal fee 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, January 27
Special Event – Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion, 7:00 – 9:30 PM. Art of the Vine. Wine: Who’s Wine is it Anyway? (chef’s choice) (Cloister) Tour: Surprise!. Sample four wines, light snacks, and enjoy a complimentary art tour at 7:00 or 8:00 PM. $15 members or $25 nonmembers. Tickets can be purchased at the TMA information desks; reservations are not required.

Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Merlot vs. Malbec: 1. 14 Hands Merlot, 2. Jean Bosquet Malbec, 3. McManis Merlot, 4. Pascual Toso Reserve Malbec. $15 tasting.

Saturday, January 28
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Merlot vs. Malbec: 1. 14 Hands Merlot, 2. Jean Bosquet Malbec, 3. McManis Merlot, 4. Pascual Toso Reserve Malbec. $15 tasting.
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 Noon - 5:00 PM. WARM UP WITH AUTHENTIC PORTS*
Nothing makes a cool winter night warmer quite light like true Port Wine from Oporto.  We will taste a number of Vintage Ports and Aged Tawny Ports. . Premium tasting. 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.

AREA WINE BARS
  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.
Technorati Tags: wine [Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
Photo by Claudio Matsuako
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Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Vineyard Photo: Gainey Vineyard

Bookmark and Share The day was rainy, but the sun managed to emerge long enough to scatter its rays on these vines in Santa Ynez at the Gainey Vineyard.

Monday, January 23, 2012

What Makes A Great Winery Visit? Here’s Our Trifecta


I just recently glanced at our winery reports page and counted 76 entries. We’ve visited many more than that, probably close to the century mark.

Some of those visits have been memorable – sipping outstanding wine in the dappled sunshine while being caressed by gentle breezes. But some have been memorable for the wrong reasons.

The bad winery visits can remind you of an episode of Kitchen Nightmares with Gordon Ramsey going ballistic after discovering an oozing mess in the walk-in cooler.

Well, what is it that makes a winery visit an experience to savor?
Based on our experience, we consider three factors. If a winery scores big on all three dimensions, you can ink in a big star on the wine trail map – marking for repeated visits.

In our experience, you need the “three goods:” 1. Good winery grounds and tasting room, 2. Good tasting room staff, and 3. Good wine.

1. Good winery grounds and tasting room. Upon arrival, nothing sets the stage like seeing an impressive, quirky or scenic winery building. It gives you good vibrations right from the start. There’s nothing worse than rumbling up to the next stop on the wine trail, looking at your companion asking, “Should we go in, or just turn around?”

Having an awesome tasting room doesn’t mean you will have world class wine, but it shows the caliber of the operation. Chances are that mediocre wine will taste a lot better in a tasting room with a floor to ceiling window overlooking a lake than in what appears to be a farmer’s converted garage.

One of the nicest tasting rooms we’ve visited is Heron Hill in the Finger Lakes. You are impressed from a half mile away and even more blown away once you are inside. Lamoreaux Landing and Glenora and two other stand-out Finger Lakes establishments. The winery buildings in Niagara-on-the-Lake are also spectacular.

There is also a lot to be said for grounds with picnic tables and scenic views of mountains, vineyards or lakes.

2. Good Tasting Room Staff. Someone save us from uninformed, unhelpful and unpleasant tasting room staff. You’ve made the decision to stop for a tasting and enter the building. The next moment of truth is the tasting room attendant.

In some wineries, like Bully Hill in the Finger Lakes, the staff ARE the attractions – entertaining guests with humorous stories and gags while dispensing detailed knowledge of the winery’s goods. A good staff can also help guide you to the wines you will most enjoy.

On a good day, your tasting room attendant will generate warmth, be a helpful advisor and sell a lot of wine.

The other end of the spectrum includes those who are too busy to tell you about the wine, those who don’t know what is in a particular wine and those who are doing it without a true love of wine.

This factor is probably even more important than an impressive building. At this point you're already invested in making a stop and if you get a bummer of a host, you’ll feel it’s been a waste of time.

3. Good Wine. Excellent wine can supersede almost any other flaw in your winery visit. This is the final piece of the puzzle. If you’re sipping an especially robust Cabernet Franc in a groovy tasting room while the tasting room attendant is telling you an intriguing story about how the owner started the winery, you have hit the trifecta!

If Numbers 1 and 2 are locked in, you have a better than even chance you’ll be tasting some good wine. But there is no guarantee. While we were up in the Niagara Peninsula, we made a stop at a winery that looked very impressive from the road. The building was of a modern design built from local stone. Inside the tasting room glittered as track lighting glinted off racks of bottles in impressive displays.

Unfortunately, the wine was just “mehh”…

Once you have achieved the “three goods,” that is the time to turn to your companions, smile and raise a toast. You are living the good life!

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Saturday, January 21, 2012

Portalupi Winery 2009 Bianco, California White Table Wine

Green Dragon is always in search of a refreshing white wine that she can enjoy in the evening as we unwind. The Portalupi Bianco came in a six bottle clearance lot that I bought from an online wine seller.

The vino is a blend of 48% Sauvignon Blanc, 47% Chardonnay and 5% Muscat Canelli. This has a clean taste with a very light body. There is a light floral aroma released by swirling.

We found this to be a nice break from the standard whites. The Chardonnay softened the zest of the Sauvignon Blanc and the SB preempted any oak overkill from the Chardonnay. The Muscat Canelli just adds the coolness factor.

We’re told that this wine offers a nice alternative to white wine drinkers in restaurants. We can see that. It’s pleasant enough to go with most meals and the unique blends separates it from the Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio on the wine list.

On the palate the wine offers a bit of peach and lemon. It’s an enjoyable wine but certainly not a thriller. It’s a very good value at about $12.

Rating: 2.5 of 5            Value: 3.5 of 5

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Friday, January 20, 2012

Lone Oak Vineyard Estate Schedules Wine and Chocolate Pairings

Chocolates

Image by J. Paxon Reyes via Flickr

Lone Oak Vineyard Estate, 8400 Ann Arbor, Grass Lake, Michigan, and Mindo Chocolate Makers want to sweeten up your Valentine celebration. On Sunday, February 12, at :00 and 3:00 PM, a special wine and chocolate presentation will be offered.

The event will feature wine and chocolate pairings and a demonstration on chocolate making by Mindo Chocolate Makers of Dexter, Michigan. Estate grown wines from Lone Oak with be paired with hand made chocolates from Mindo Chocolate Makers. You'll sample several different Mindo chocolates with selected wines.

Mindo makes their 67% and 77% cacao chocolate with only three ingredients: their own cocoa liquor, their own cocoa butter and organic evaporated cane juice. No additives. Mindo Chocolate Makers ferment, dry and roast the cocoa beans themselves at their place in Mindo, Ecuador. They ship the cocoa beans to Michigan and hand make the chocolate at their place in Dexter. They control the quality of their chocolate by following the process carefully from the moment the bean comes out of the pod.

In addition to their solid chocolate bars, Mindo also offers other flavors by adding ingredients like espresso coffee beans, cherries, hazel nuts, sea salt, blueberries, and almonds, to name a few.

There will be a sessions at 1:00 and 3:00 PM. Seating is limited and reservations are required. The cost is $10 per person. Call (517)522-8167.

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Thursday, January 19, 2012

Beaulieu Vineyard 2006 Reserve Pinot Noir, Carneros


This Pinot Noir was on our menu for a recent light dinner with a friend. We enjoyed a light salad and corn chowder soup along with the decanted BV Reserve Pinot.
The wine is medium bodied with rich fruit aromas. On the palate it has flavor notes of dried raspberries and blueberries.
There is a touch of cocoa and spice on the finish. This is a well-structured wine with soft tannins.
Beaulieu has more than 100 years of experience making wine in the Napa Valley and it shows with their line of reserve wines. This is a tasty glass, but we deemed it less than awesome. The wine can be found for about $45.
Rating: 3 of 5
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Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: January 18-21, 2012


Wednesday, January 18
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. More Great Closeouts: 1. Ste. Chapelle Dry Gewurztraminer, 2. Clos LaChance “Black Chinned” Syrah, 3. Five Star Cellars Walla Walla Syrah, 4. Ste. Chapelle Soft White. $7.50 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

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

Thursday, January 19

The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Dan’s favorites: 1. Orin Swift – Veladora – Sauvignon Blanc – Napa Valley, 2. Melville – Verna’s Estate Chardonnay – Santa Barbara County, 3. Chappellet – Mountain Cuvee – Napa Valley, 4. Robert Mondavi – Cabernet Sauvignon – Napa Valley. $7.50 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. 2012 Closeout Tasting #2: 1. Arrowood Chardonnay, 2. Morrow Bay Chardonnay, 3. Domaine Joseph Voillot Vonay Pinot Noir, 4. Melini Chianti, 5. Col D’Orcia Rosso di Montelcino Italy, 6. Hundred of Joanna Red Blend Australia, 7. Ravenswood Barricia Zinfandel, 8. Tarrica Moscato California. Nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 5-7 PM.Closeout Wines Part 1: 1. Prima Perla Prosecco, 2. Hogue Genesis Chardonnay, 3. Gallo Sonoma Merlot, 4. Col d’Orcia Rosso di Montalcino. $2 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

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

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Nominal fee 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, January 20
Special Event – Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion, 7:00 – 9:30 PM. Art of the Vine. Wine: Roussillon Region French Wines (Cloister)
Tour: Cloister Architecture. Sample four wines, light snacks, and enjoy a complimentary art tour at 7:00 or 8:00 PM. $15 members or $25 nonmembers. Tickets can be purchased at the TMA information desks; reservations are not required.

Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Tuscan Reds: 1. Montellori Chianti, 2. La Mozza Morellino, 3. Rodano Chianti Classico , 4. La Massa Toscana. $15 tasting.

Saturday, January 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. Tuscan Reds: 1. Montellori Chianti, 2. La Mozza Morellino, 3. Rodano Chianti Classico , 4. La Massa Toscana. $15 tasting.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 Noon - 5:00 PM. Wines from Ampelography with special guest. Adam Mahler from Ampelography Wines will be on hand to introduce you to some of the coolest small production, high-quality wines from around the world. Premium tasting. 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.

AREA WINE BARS
  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.
Technorati Tags: wine [Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
Photo by Claudio Matsuako
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Monday, January 16, 2012

Cadaretta 2009 SBS, Columbia Valley


Interested in trying a new white, we picked up this Washington State blend. The wine mixes tart and tangy Sauvignon Blanc (78%) with Semillon (22%), which smoothes out this energetic wine.

My first impression was of lemonade – a refreshing lemony taste but with a fuller body than a typical Sauvignon Blanc. The wine also has pineapple flavor notes and compelling minerality.

The SBS also has an almost creamy body to it, giving it an interesting mouthfeel. I really enjoyed this wine as a change of pace from Sauvignon Blanc. It is from a small production winery in Walla Walla and about 700 cases were made.

We enjoyed this as an after dinner drink, but it should be an outstanding pairing with seafood. Cost was $24 at Aficionado’s, a nice value.


Rating: 3.5 of 5

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Saturday, January 14, 2012

Mount Veeder Winery 2000 Napa Valley Reserve

After enjoying a nice evening at the Funny Bone comedy club at Levis Commons, we adjourned to Poco Piatti for a late dinner with Ace of Bass, Glorious T and two other friends.

Tapas plates were circling here and there as platters of appetizers kept rolling in. Middle East dishes mingled with mushrooms and seafood. Discussion ranged from world financial affairs to the Iowa State basketball team.

Of course, we needed fuel for our conversation and wine to match the eclectic eats  we were enjoying.

We started with a beautiful Stags' Leap Petite Sirah. This was a luscious wine bright with blackberry and cherry. On most nights, this would be the pinnacle. But there was a surprise in store.

Ace of Bass and Glorious T conferred over the wine list for what seemed like ages to our thirsty group. They placed the order with our waitress and soon we were rewarded with the sound of a popping cork on a Mount Veeder Winery bottle. Little did we know how well they had chosen.

The selection was a Mount Veeder Winery Reserve and I was surprised to see that it was a 2000 vintage. The wine is a blend of 52% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 4% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot. It was the perfect wine to enjoy with the remainder of our tapas and camaraderie.

The wine has a thin slice of spice with dark cherry and black fruit flavor notes. The 12 years of aging has rounded the edges of the tannins, but it kept a pleasant firmness. The Mount Veeder had some nice tobacco and toast accents to add to the complexity.

Certainly, this was a special bottle of wine. Our curiosity was raised even further as I studied the label and saw that it was a Meritage from a limited batch.The bottle was number 27,775.

This had a remarkable finish – a couple days later. Glorious T looked online and saw that this bottle sells for more than $100. At a restaurant, you could expect to pay more than $200 for it!

SCORE! Apparently this bottle was just waiting for the right group of wine lovers who could truly appreciate it.

RATING: 4.5 of 5
VALUE: Off the charts!

Friday, January 13, 2012

Don Pascual 2010 Reserve Tannat


Wine review by Glorious T.

We were appreciative to be gifted with a bottle of Don Pascual Tannat Reserve 2011 (Uruguay) for our review. I made the mistake of reading the winemaker's notes as the bottle was being opened. Typically I like to be surprised and make my own judgment, and I know what I really like.

Upon reading about this wine's notes of ink and robust tannins, I was immediately prepared that this wine would not pass muster. Thank goodness Ace of Bass encouraged me to give it a chance anyway.

A lovely violet color gives way to a pleasantly fragrant mix of heavy spices. The tannins are really well balanced with big jammy flavor for a really interesting and flavorful taste. It's a full bodied wine with a long and delicious finish. The Tannat is thoroughly enjoyable and highly recommended.

It is hearty enough to be paired with a meal, but interesting enough to stand on it's own. In fact, we rated this much higher than several wines we had sampled over the holiday season.

Rating: 3.5 to 4 out of 5.

Full disclosure: This wine was received as a sample.
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Thursday, January 12, 2012

Dare To Pair: The Chef’s Challenge On February 2 In Geneva to Benefit Pairings Wine & Culinary Center

Pairings, Ohio’s Wine and Culinary Experience, a proposed facility in historic downtown Geneva, Ohio, has scheduled Dare To Pair: The Chef’s Challenge. The fundraising event will be February 2, 6:00 – 9:30 PM.


This unique gala event is an opportunity to join in the journey to groundbreaking. The architectural rendering for the 38,000 square feet building will be revealed at this event.
Pairings will have cooking classes in a hands-on kitchen and amphitheater, winemaking demonstrations and activities, regional wine tastings, pairings and tours and incubator facilities for start-up wineries.

Come and celebrate Ohio's rich and unique wine and culinary experience, as "Dare to Pair" will highlight the best that Ohio's fields, farms and vines have to offer.
  • Sample heavy appetizers & tapas plates created by celebrity chefs
  • Taste local Ohio wines paired with each plate
  • Bid on fantastic prizes during the silent auction
  • Enjoy a lively gala with entertainment, a who's who attendee list & wonderful food & drink
  • Support a good cause-a regional & state economic development project based in Geneva, Ohio
  • Experience the new restaurant everyone's talking about, Fuel, in the Spire Institute complex
To register call (440) 466-4675. Tickets are $75, $50 of which is tax deductible. A special overnight package with two tickets and lodging is available for $219. Buy your tickets online here.

Publisher’s Note: This is going to be a great addition to the Ohio wine scene. It sounds like it is similar to the New York Wine & Culinary Center in Canandaigua, NY. If so, it will be a spectacular facility! Let’s get behind this project and give it the support it deserves.

Photo by Michela Simoncini
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Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: January 11-14, 2011

Wednesday, January 11
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. More Great Closeouts: 1. Tohu Sauvignon Blanc, 2. Estancia Riesling, 3. Bell Cellars Syrah, 4. Nino Negri Sfursat. $8 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Mead Tasting With Special Guest Ian Washington From B. Nektar Meadery. $15.

Thursday, January 12

The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Cheri’s favorites: 1. 2010 Chateau LaMothe de Haux – White Bordeaux, 2. 2008 Roc de Lussac St. Emilion – Red Bordeaux, 3. 2008 Mount Veeder – Cabernet Sauvignon, 4. Layer Cake – Shiraz. $5.50 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Chilean Wine Values Night: 1. Morande Pionero Chardonnay, 2. Montes Alpha Chardonnay, 3. Morande Pionero Merlot, 4. Perez Cruz Cabernet, 5. Terra Andina Cabernet, 6. Morande Grand Reserve Cabernet, 7. Perez Cruz Carmenere, 8. Morande Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc. Nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 5-7 PM. Closeout Wines Part 1: 1. Prima Perla Prosecco, 2. Hogue Genesis Chardonnay, 3. Gallo Sonoma Merlot, 4. Col d’Orcia Rosso di Montalcino,. $2 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Mead Tasting With Special Guest Ian Washington From B. Nektar Meadery. $15.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Nominal fee 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, January 13
Special Event – Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion, 7:00 – 9:30 PM. Art of the Vine. Wine: Women Winemakers (Cloister)Tour: Female Glass Artists. Sample four wines, light snacks, and enjoy a complimentary art tour at 7:00 or 8:00 PM. $15 members or $25 nonmembers. Tickets can be purchased at the TMA information desks; reservations are not required.
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Port Tasting: 1. Graham's Six Grapes, 2. Penfolds Club Tawny, 3. Kopke 10 Year Tawny, 4. Feist 2000 Vintage Port. $15 tasting.

Saturday, January 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. Port Tasting: 1. Graham's Six Grapes, 2. Penfolds Club Tawny, 3. Kopke 10 Year Tawny, 4. Feist 2000 Vintage Port. $15 tasting.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 Noon - 5:00 PM. Austin is on vacation
AREA WINE BARS
  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.
Technorati Tags: wine [Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
Photo by Claudio Matsuako

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Zinful To Offer Introductory Wine Classes In February

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville, is offering wine classes February 1 and 8 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. The cost of $30 per person includes both classes and samples at each session. Seating is limited and the class must be paid for in advance.
The goal of this course, aimed at the novice wine drinker, is to arm the participants with the essential information to make a more informed choice when purchasing retail or at a restaurant. Topics will include how to read a wine label, how to taste, how to identify the differences between imported wine versus domestic, smart buying and much more. The course is scheduled for two hours over two consecutive weeks. Your instructor is Jim Krusinski, a Certified Wine Specialist. His daytime duties are wine sales for a wine distributor. At night, Jim has been educating the public in wine appreciation for the last 10 years. His approach is to take the myths and mystery out of the equation and to supply his students with practical information that is easy to use. Call (419) 878-9463 or stop by Zinful to sign up.
Owner Joyce Franzblau also announced that Zinful now has wine flights available every day and special flights of open wine Sundays through Thursday nights. There is a wine bottle special this winter on Mondays and Tuesdays. If you buy a bottle of wine you’ll receive a free appetizer for two or dessert to share.
Photo by Angelo Amboldi
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Monday, January 9, 2012

Blue Rock 2009 Baby Blue Red Blend, Alexander Valley


Blue Rock is an estate winery in Alexander Valley, Sonoma. They make only small quantities of affordable luxury reds.
They produce mostly Cabernet Sauvignon with a small amount of Syrah. There are three levels in their portfolio, the flagship Blue Rock Cabernet, Best Barrels and then the Baby Blue which is their most accessible and affordable.
The 2009 Baby Blue has a blend that has more Merlot than Cab: 39% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc and 9% Syrah. This is a glorious mix that teases the senses with a softness that is inviting.
I first discovered Baby Blue at Todd English’s Blue Zoo restaurant in Orlando during a board dinner. It provided a fantastic accompaniment to the upscale cuisine and immediately made my list of “go to” wines.
Most recently we opened the 2009 before heading out to Fat Fish Blue to ring in the new year with the band My 80s Vice. The wine has a wonderful floral bouquet. On the palate it is a rush of black berries and currant with accents of spice. It is a complete wine, with on target nose, flavor notes and round finish.
Highly recommended at about $25. Rated 4 of 5.
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Saturday, January 7, 2012

Chocolate is for Lovers Wine Trail Event Set For February

Celebrate Valentine's Day with wineries of the Vines and Wines Trail (Northeast Ohio) during the special Chocolate is for Lovers wine trail event. This is a self driving tour. You have two weekends (Friday and Saturday, noon to 6:00 p.m.) to visit each of the participating wineries on the trail. Dates are February 3, 4 and 10 and 11.

At a designated winery, you will pick up a candy dish and a Schott Zwiesel crystal wine glass. As you travel the trail, you will receive one or two samples of wine and a chocolate candy to fill your candy dish.

The cost is $50 per couple and $40 per single. Tickets are good for all four days. For additional details, go to the Ohio Wines Web site or call (800) 227-6972.

Tickets are limited and going fast, so hurry. So to be sure you aren't left out, get your tickets as soon as possible.

Participating wineries:
- Bene Vino Urban Winery, Perry
- Biscotti's Family Winery, Conneaut
- Buccia Vineyards, Conneaut
- Debonne Vineyards, Madison
- Emerine Estates, Jefferson
- Ferrante Winery & Ristorante, Geneva
- Grand River Cellars, Madison
- Maple Ridge Vineyards, Madison
- Old Firehouse Winery, Geneva-on-the-Lake
- Old Mill Winery, Geneva
- The Winery at Spring Hill, Geneva
- Virant Family Winery, Geneva

Photo by Mayra Chiachia
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Friday, January 6, 2012

Campus Oaks 2007 Old Vines Zinfandel, Lodi

We sampled this Zin for the first time as we visited with Glorious T and Ace of Bass, checking in for the Ohio Buckeyes’ game in the Gator Bowl. It turns out that the game was flat, but this wine was not.
This Zin is from the Lodi region, which is earning a reputation for spectacular Zinfandel. The grapes for this vintage were sourced from four blocks of vineyards which average 90 years of age.
The aroma is big with sassy flavors of raspberry and blackberry. The mouthfeel is silky and the finish is long. The enjoyment of the wine lasted much longer than the chances of Ohio State. The Campus Oaks finished with a nice flourish, while the Buckeyes had a short and disappointing finish!
This wine also packs a high value punch: it can be found for about $12.
Rating: 3 out of 5.
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Thursday, January 5, 2012

Spy Valley 2004 Dry Riesling, Marlborough


New Zealand isn’t the first place I think of when considering Dry Riesling. In fact, it’s not even the fourth or fifth. So when I purchased a six-bottle year-end lot from an online wine company, I was intrigued to discover this bottle of Spy Valley Dry Riesling.
Green Dragon loves Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand. The zesty wines have a combination of freshness and acidity that she really loves. Hopefully the Riesling would have the same allure.
But this bottle caused me to have some doubts beforehand for a couple of reasons. First, I’d never had a Riesling from New Zealand and second, seven-year-old white wines are an iffy proposition at best.
Fortunately, Riesling is an exception to the short lifespan of most white wines. The high acidity helps preserve the wine and even lets it age and develop interesting character.
That was the case with this wine which I found to be even more exotic than I imagine it was back in 2005 or 2006. The wine is a deep golden color. The aroma of petrol mostly masked the citrus smells. On the palate this wine compares very favorably to top Dry Rieslings, with minerality, citrus fruit and peach. This is a medium bodied wine with complexity.
I thoroughly enjoyed this, but Green Dragon said the bouquet was a distraction for her.
The ‘04 Spy Valley is an evolved wine, it still is drinking well, but I expect that the roller coaster has crested the hill and is starting to move down the other side.
Rating: 3 out of 5
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Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: January 4-7, 2012

Pinot noir growing in the French wine region o...
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Wednesday, January 4
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. New Year, New Closeouts: 1. Prima Perla Prosecco, 2. Scala Dei Negre Priorat, 3. Bell Cellars Syrah, 4. Renwood 2004 Vintage Port. $8 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

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

Thursday, January 5

The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Happy New Year, Closeouts Galore: 1. Si Soave – Italy, 2. The Flying Winemaker – Chardonnay – California, 3. Giorgio $ Gianni – Lambrusco – Italy, 4. Castle Rock – Syrah – Washington. $2 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. 2012 Closeout Tasting #1: 1. Cinque Terre Italian White Wine, 2. Moshin Vineyard Sonoma Pinot Noir, 3. Villa Nozzole Chianti Classico 2007, 4. Zynergy Zinfandel Sonoma, 5. Benzinger North Coast Syrah, 6. Wente Nth Degree Syrah, 7. Wente Nth Degree Merlot, 8. Thomas Schmitt Piesporter Goldtrpchen Riesling. Nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 5-7 PM. Easy on the Palate (and the wallet!): 1. Vanessa Viura, 2. 2 Copas White, 3. Lady Grace Chardonnay, 4. 2 Copas Red. $2 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

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

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Nominal fee 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, January 6
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Oregon Pinots: 1. Elk Cove Pinot Gris, 2. Erath Pinot Noir, 3. Big Fire Pinot Noir, 4. Rex Hill Pinot Noir. $15 tasting.

Saturday, January 7
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Oregon Pinots: 1. Elk Cove Pinot Gris, 2. Erath Pinot Noir, 3. Big Fire Pinot Noir, 4. Rex Hill Pinot Noir. $15 tasting.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 Noon - 5:00 PM. New Years Resolution Wines. In honor of the New Year, we will be tasting six wines that you should definitely drink more of in 2012. These wines are classic regions under-appreciated and hot emerging areas we expect to make it big in 2012. Nominal fee per sample.
AREA WINE BARS


  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.
Technorati Tags: wine [Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
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