Friday, August 31, 2012

Zinful Announces New Wine Manager And Wine Tastings

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville, is proud to announce Michael Gregg as their new wine manager. Mike is well known in the area wine circles.
“Zinful is a full-service bar and restaurant, so my possibilities are endless! I'm gonna hop right back into the swing of things and start my tastings next Wednesday,” said Gregg. The theme of this inaugural tasting is 'Welcome to Zinful!'. The tasting will explore the juicy, hidden gems on the Zinful wine list, from sparkling to rosé, and white to red.
The tasting is scheduled Wednesday, September 5, from 6:00 to 9:00 PM.
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Thursday, August 30, 2012

Été 2011 Oregon White Wine

When we recently attended a special event at Walt Churchill’s Briarfield store this new wine was highly recommended. Now we understand why.

Été is a white blend produced by Anne Amie Vineyards in Carleton Oregon. It is available in Ohio and Michigan through the efforts of Ampelography’s Adam Mahler. Adam worked with Anne Amie to refine the blend of Chardonnay (39%), Riesling (29%), Viognier (11%), Vermentino (9%),
Gewürztraminer (5%), Rousanne (4%) and Marsanne (3%).

We kicked off a recent wine tasting out on the patio with a glass of Été and the wine matched the great summer evening. Été is French for summer and the label art by local artist Steve Mockensturm shows a plunging diver seconds from splashdown.

This is a great blend that includes some off-beat grapes and captures the freshness of Oregon whites. Tasting team member Wine Chick thought that the Gewürztraminer made a bigger impression on the palate than a measly 5% would lead you to believe. Sax Man chimed in that as the vino warmed up additional fruit flavors came forward.

Été delivers a fun and sophisticated cool climate vibe. The wine is dry but with sufficient fruit to make it smooth and rounded. Priced at about $14, this is a unique wine ideal for summer sipping.
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Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Toledo Area Wine Tastings: August 29–September 1, 2012

Old Vine cabernet from Chateau Montelena, Napa...
Old Vine cabernet from Chateau Montelena, Napa Valley, California. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
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Wednesday, August 29
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Washington/Oregon Wines: 1. Thief Chardonnay, 2. Kings Ridge Pinot Gris, 3. River's Edge Pinot Noir, 4. Columbia Valley CMS, 5. Revelry Vintners The Reveler, 6. Chateau St Michelle Riesling. $15.

Thursday, August 30

Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Celebrate Worldwide Great Cabernet Day: 1. Louis.M. Martini– 2009-Cabernet Sauvignon– Napa Valley, California, 2. Tamarack Cellars – 2008– Cabernet Sauvignon - Columbia Washington, 3. Chateau Ormes De Pez-2008 - Bordeaux– Sainte-Estephe, 4. Justin-2009-Justification - Blend– Paso Robles. Flight $8.75 or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. The Absolut Best Wine Values. Nominal fee per sample.

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, August 31
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. No wine tasting tonight.


Saturday, September 1
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. No wine tasting tonight.
The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:30 – 5:00 PM. Vertical Tasting – Jean Louis Chave: Multiple years of the same wine from one of the world’s finest producers of red wine. Taste the 07,09,10 J.L. Chave ‘Mon Coeur’ and the 07 & 09 Saint Joseph. Premium tasting. Nominal fee per sample.

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

AREA WINE BARS
  • The Bistro at Maumee Wines, (419) 893-2525, 2556 Parkway Plaza, Maumee.
  • 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.
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Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Hillebrand 2008 Trius Red, VQA Niagara Peninsula

Hillebrand is a big and beautiful winery in Ontario. They are well known for their Trius blends, most notably the red.

A couple years ago we took a trip to Niagara and visited the winery. I must claim momentary insanity, because I didn’t pick up a magnum of their awe-inspiring Trius Red. I figured I’d be able to pick it up at many LCBO locations.

Wrong! The wine is so popular that it often sells out. We ended up heading across the border with no Trius.
As luck would have it, we soon travelled back to Ontario for TasteCamp North. This time I took no chances and scored a magnum of the 2008 Trius.

One of the things that appealed to me is the svelte bottle. This isn’t just a clunky container for two bottles-worth of wine – no. The Trius magnum looks like it is ready to take flight, piercing the clouds before dispensing a refreshing rain of grape goodness.

We gave this as a gift to Glorious T and Ace of Bass and they surprised us by popping it open recently.

The 2008 Trius Red is a blend of Merlot (46%), Cabernet Franc (31%), Cabernet Sauvignon (20%) and Malbec (3%). The Malbec is a new addition for the 2008 vintage.

Trius displays a refreshing red berry wash that is lush with flavor. The approach is smooth yet rippling with strength underneath the surface. Red fruit flavors mingle with chocolate. The Cab Franc provides a spicy accent note. The wine then decrescendos with a long, enjoyable finish.

Hillebrand first offered Trius in 1989. Within three years it won a wine competition in London recognizing it as the world’s best red. This sells for about $20 Canadian for the 750ml bottle. It certainly overdelivers at that price point.

Highly recommended for quaffing with friends or sharing at a barbeque.
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Monday, August 27, 2012

Oregon Wine Triumphs During Successful WBC12

There was a lot to love about the recent 2012 Wine Bloggers Conference (WBC12) held at the Doubletree Portland in Oregon. A total of 370 bloggers, winery representatives and industry moguls were present and enjoyed a full program that focused on wines from around the world as well as the craft of blogging.

The bounty of vino ranged from powerful Cabernets from Napa Valley to the almost completely unknown Hondarrabi Zuri grape in the obscure Spanish region of Bizkaiko Txakolina. But one star outshone them all: the wines of Oregon.

The wine industry is big business in Oregon, bringing in an estimated
$2.7 billion annually with $158 million coming from wine tourism. The TWAV tasting team was fortunate to get the flavor of Oregon during our recent visit. Here’s what we learned:

1. Oregon Wine Country is Cool. And we mean this in both senses of the word. There is a lot to be said for grape vines struggling out of scorched earth and rubble, resulting in concentrated flavors. That’s quite a contrast to Oregon, where marionberries, Douglas firs and a jungle of greenery seem to cover every inch of landscape. How can grapes not flourish in such a verdant landscape?

The cooler temperatures give it a leg up on California, its heated neighbor to the south. Oregon’s top three wines are Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Riesling. Chardonnay is also planted in large quantities. These are all varieties that thrive and gain character in the cooler
climate.

Oregon is also a natural wonderland, allowing you to visit waterfalls, snow-capped mountains and amazing Pacific coast vistas all with a glass of superb wine in your hand.

2. Oregon Deserves More Notoriety for Amazing Rosé and Pinot Gris. We were expecting spectacular Pinot Noir – and we got it in spades. What we hadn’t expected was the refreshing and dazzling rosé and Pinot Gris. The rosé, made with Pinot Noir grapes, has a citrus lilt with a touch of melon. This is head and shoulders above the old style sweet pink stuff and even an upgrade from the dry French rosé. The rosé from Domain Drouhin, King Estate and Stoller Family Estate are great examples of Oregon style. It is a natural summer refresher.

Perhaps my favorite wine is dry Riesling. Who knows what would have happened if I were introduced to Oregon Pinot Gris first? The wines are medium bodied with ample dollops of fruit flavors that are balanced with acidity. Unlike some Alsatian wines, these are not unduly restrained, they dance with life. They are tasty, refreshing and memorable.

3. There is Diversity in Oregon Wine. One of the most delicious pairings you’ll ever experience is Oregon Pinot Noir with fresh, native salmon. But we discovered wines beyond Pinot Noir and even beyond Pinot Gris and Chardonnay. Oregon stretches from Washington State to the north and down to California in the south.

During the Oregon wines welcome reception we discovered the 2011 Aleash from Agate Ridge Vineyards. The Aleash is an estate-grown white Rhone blend featuring Viognier, Roussanne and Marsanne. Agate Ridge also featured a 2009 Malbec. Agate Ridge is in the Rogue Valley AVA, the southernmost Oregon wine region.

Other popular varieties in southern Oregon include Albarino, Tempranillo and Cabernet Franc.

We’ll share more insights from our WBC12 Oregon visit in future posts. In closing here are a few of the top wines we sampled at the Oregon wines welcome reception:
  • Agate Ridge 2009 Malbec
  • Anne Amie Vineyards 2009 Pinot Noir
  • Argyle 2010 Reserve Pinot Noir
  • Carlton Cellars 2009 Roads End Pinot Noir
  • Chehalem 2011 Gruner Veltliner
  • Cornerstone Cellars 2010 Reserve Pinot Noir
  • Dion Vineyard 2010 Old Vines Pinot Noir
  • Domaine Drouhin 2008 Laurène Cuvee
  • Foris Vineyards 2010 Pinot Blanc
  • Kramer Vineyards 2010 Müller Thurgau
  • R. Stuart & Co 2011 Big Fire Pinot Gris
  • Twelve 2010 Estate White
  • Youngberg Hill 2009 Natasha Block Pinot Noir
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Friday, August 24, 2012

Prestigious Wine Label Design Contest Winners Announced

Napa, CA – The Volunteer Center of Napa Valley has announced the winners of the 3rd annual International Wine Label Design Contest. Amore Fati Ouroboros Pinot Noir, designed by John C. Trohan of New Jersey, won the Overall Award.
A panel of international judges chose the winners in 3 categories, and from those picked an overall winner:
Dramatic Graphics
GOLD – Amore Fati Ouroboros Pinot Noir, designed by John C. Trohan, co-founder of Amore Fati, Short Hills, New Jersey
SILVER – Boneshaker, creative director David Schuemann, design director Kevin Reeves, designed and illustrated by Dana Deininger, CF Napa, Napa, California; photographer Tucker & Hossler Photography, Los Angeles, California
BRONZE – Martian Ranch & Vineyard Mothership Grenache Blanc, designed by Bomie Lee, creative director Fabian Geyrhalter, Geyrhalter Wine Group, Santa Monica, California

Classic Style
GOLD – Promesa, designed by María Jesús Vial of Lab Diseño, Santiago, Chile
SILVER – Hahn SLH Estate, creative director David Schuemann, design director and designed by Sara Golzari, illustrated by Kate Earhart, CF Napa, Napa, California; photographer Tucker & Hossler Photography, Los Angeles, California
BRONZE – Chocolate Shop, designed by Chanda Williams of Chanda Williams Design, San Francisco, California

Label Series
GOLD – Happy Valley, designed by María Jesús Vial of Lab Diseño, Santiago, Chile
SILVER – Tie: Petrola, designed by María Jesús Vial of Lab Diseño, Santiago, Chile;
and Waveland Wines, designed by Jenny Doll of Jenny Doll Design, Sausalito, California

Overall Winner
Amore Fati Ouroboros Pinot Noir, designed by John C. Trohan, co-founder of Amore Fati, Short Hills, New Jersey.
“The Ouroboros is an ancient symbol depicting a dragon eating its own tail,” said overall winner John Trohan. “It represents the perpetual cycle and the renewal of life, death and rebirth—eternity and immortality. The design on the 2010 Ouroboros is a modern, simple interpretation based on the Japanese calligraphy style of shodō. The label features an ink-and-brush design surrounding an ancient grapevine, which is half alive, half dead—signifying the Tree of Life.”
Entries were judged on the following criteria: overall originality and creativity, use of typography, and use of graphics.
The roster of international judges includes Paul Wagner, co-author of Wine Marketing & Sales and wine marketing instructor at Napa Valley College. "Labels are a fascinating design challenge,” said Wagner. “They have to attract attention from a distance like a billboard, and they have to provide reassurance on closer inspection. They must be dramatic and yet comforting. And above all they have to communicate the unique message of the brand. A great label does all of this.”
Rounding out the team of judges are Pascal Durand, Wine Marketing professor at the ENESAD program at the University of Burgundy in Dijon, France; Tim Gaiser, MS, Director of Education, Court of Master Sommeliers Americas; Javier Merino, Management and Marketing Professor at the University of Mendoza, Argentina; Pierpaolo Penco, Director at the Executive Master in Wine Business program at MIB School of Management, Trieste, Italy; and Liz Thach, MW, PhD, Wine Business Professor, Sonoma State University, who co-authored Wine Marketing & Sales with Paul Wagner.

A call for entries for the next competition will go out in spring of 2013. The proceeds of the competition, which are in the form of submission fees, go directly to benefit the Volunteer Center of Napa Valley.
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Thursday, August 23, 2012

Argentina Food and Wine Pairing Delights The Senses At WBC12

 
Argentina is a land of passion, whether it is the sensuous steps of the tango, savory food dishes or succulent wine. All were on display during a special food and wine pairing sponsored by Winebow at the recent 2012 Wine Bloggers Conference in Portland.

Although it is their most famous grape, there is much more to Argentina than Malbec. I began the tasting brunch with a crisp 2011 Bodega Catena Zapata Chardonnay. The pairing for this Mendoza wine was corn and cheese empanadas with spinach alioli. This was a successful match. Argentina doesn't get the respect it should for its whites.

The crowd was bustling and our tasting team was scattering to either watch a tango demonstration or choose from the many wine and food options. I circled to the back and grabbed a 2010 Bodega Catena Zapata Cab. This was served with chimichurri marinated flat iron steak over chipotle sweet potatoes garnished with fresh cilantro. The steak outshone the Cab, which was good, but not showstopping.

After enjoying a stuffed fig with the Alma Negra M Blend, I turned my attention to Malbec. First in my sights was the 2009 Catena Zapata Alta Malbec with beef empanadas. Now we were rolling with some rich berry goodness.

The peak was the 2010 Bodegas Nieto Senetiner Reserva Malbec. I didn't care so much for the braised pork belly -- but the expressive Malbec was superb. Rich with jammy dark fruit and splashed with a twist of complexity, this was a fantastic new discovery.

Unfortunately, while I was enjoying the reserve Malbec, I got outmaneuvered. On the other end of the room was the tastiest food of the brunch: sea salt seared scallops with black bean hummus. When I arrived only the block of salt was left and the figure of Austin Beeman disappearing in the distance.

Kudos to chef Steven Ward, Winebow and, of course, the outstanding wine producers of Argentina.

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Toledo Area Wine Tastings and Events: August 22-25, 2012

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Wednesday, August 22 
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. 1. Jacuzzi Chardonnay, 2. Thurston Wolfe PGV, 3. Franciscan Merlot, 4. Mandrolisai Rosso. $8 flight or nominal fee per sample.

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

Thursday, August 23 

Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. 1. UBY – Colombard/Ugni Blanc, 2. Hook & Ladder – Gewurztraminer, 3. Allegrini – Veronese, 4. Twisted Douro.  Flight $6or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. California Chardonnay & Cabernet Values: 1. Maggio Chardonnay, 2. Irony Chardonnay, 3. Leese-Fitch Chardonnay, 4. Dreaming Tree Chardonnay, 5. Laguna Ranch Chardonnay, 6. Layercake Cabernet, 7. Dreaming Tree Cabernet, 8. Fox Glove Cabernet. Nominal fee per sample.

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, August 24 
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Red Blends: 1. Franc Beausejour Bordeaux, 2. Steltzner Claret, 3. Borsao "Berola", 4. Penfolds Koonunga Hill. $15 tasting.

Saturday, August 25
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Red Blends: 1. Franc Beausejour Bordeaux, 2. Steltzner Claret, 3. Borsao "Berola", 4. Penfolds Koonunga Hill. $15 tasting.
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The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. German Wines for German American Fest: 1. Schlink Haus Red Sweet Dornfelder, 2. Schmitt Söhne Piesporter Michelsberg, 3. Schlink Haus Riesling, 4. Nürnberger Glühwein. Flight $2 or nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:30 – 5:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

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

AREA WINE BARS
  • The Bistro at Maumee Wines, (419) 893-2525, 2556 Parkway Plaza, Maumee.
  • 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.
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Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Red Wine Live Blogging #WBC12

One of our favorite features of the Wine Bloggers Conference is live wine wine blogging. This year in Portland it was another hit. Here are notes on the 10 featured red wines at our table.


  • Archery Summit 2010 Premier Cuvee 100% Pinot Noir. Beautiful beginning. $48. Raspberry and red fruit. Cinnamon stick.
  • Cornerstone 2009 Pinot Noir. Blended from five vineyard sites. Focused on making great Pinots. 14 months of barrel age. Changes structure and harmony of wine. $50.
  • Esporao Quatro Castas four grapes including Aragonez (Tempranillo) from Portugal. $17. A juicy value.
  • Decibel 2010 Pinot Noir Martinborough. $28. Cool climate Pinot. Ripe raspberry. Good structure.
  • Tapena 2010 Garnacha from central Spain. Wine design to share with friends and food. $10. Great barbeque wine also good with nuts and olives. Good fruitiness. Touch of Tempranillo.
  • Willamette Valley Vineyard 2009 Estate Pinot Noir. One of the best Pinot Noirs from our OR trip. This blends WVV's three vineyards. $45. Round, rich and gushing with fruit.
  • Sokol Blosser Evolution Red NV. Syrah and 12 other varietals. Blueberries and approachable. Designed for fun. $18. Soft and smooth.
  • Tendril 2009 White Label Pinot Noir. Small producer. Tony Rynders winemaker, formerly of Domains Serene. Plum, vanilla, wild raspberry. Yes!
  • Medlock Ames 2008 Red. 97% Cabernet Sauvignon. Alexander Valley. Bell Mountain Vineyard. Leather, currant and chewy goodness. The berries rule! Organic. Planning Green Wine Day Oct. 19.
  • Jacob's Creek 2008 Reserve Shiraz, Barossa. Mulberry, chocolate and spice. Powerful fruit. $12.99.


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Monday, August 20, 2012

Wine Blogger Conference Live Wine Blogging: Whites and Rose

One of the highlights of the annual wine bloggers  is the live blogging sessions, also known as speed tasting. This year during the conference in Portland this tasty version of "speed dating" featured 31 white and rose wines. Each winery had five minutes each to present as they rotated  among the tables. The 375 bloggers tweeted, Faceboked and blogged through a lightning round of goodness. Here are the highlights from the 10 wines served up at our table:


  • 2011 Pepsi Sauvignon Blanc by O'Neill. Cali SB great for summer and salad.
  • Decibel 2009 Single Vineyard New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. Hawks Bay. Rounder and less racy than Marlborough. A winner and one of the best of the tasting.
  • Via de View by Gloria Ferret sparkler from Sonoma Carneros. Pinot Noir, Chard and Muscat. Light sweetness and some biscuit.
  • Cornerstone 2010 Willamette Valley Oregon Chardonnay. Touch of oak. Bright and  good acidity. Hits Chardonnay target. Herbed chicken anyone?
  • Sokol Blosser Evolution NV Makes a lot of people happy. Blends well with spicy foods. Muscat, Gerwerztraminer plus a big supporting cast. A quirky, fun wine.
  • Domaine de Tariquet, Gascony, France. Ungni-Blanc, Columbard, Sauv Blanc and Grow Manseng. Fifth generation winery celebrating 100th anniversary. Only $9 for French grooviness.
  • Millbrandt 2011 Ancient Lakes Riesling. Evergreen Vineyard. Most highly acclaimed white vineyard in Washington state. Wet stone, peach and lime. Winemker formerly worked at Finger Lakes standout Heron Hill. Winner of this tasting. 
  • Chandon Etoile pink bubbler. Strawberry and raspberry. Great food wine. 
  • Castillo de Tafalla 2011 Rosado Garnacha crowd funded vino. Angel price $4.99. Model for 21st century wine sales?
  • Ponzi 2011 Pinot Gris. Refreshing with splash of sweetness. $17. .58 residual sugar.



Friday, August 17, 2012

Stoller Family Estate: Dundee Hills Winery Visit

Our trip to Oregon for the 2012 Wine Bloggers Conference started with the rolling terrain of the Dundee Hills and the elegant wines of Stoller Winery. Stoller boasts the largest contiguous vineyard in the Dundee Hills AVA with 185 acres. Forty-five percent of the fruit goes to Stoller with the rest going to some of the top wineries in the region.

Dundee Hills is one of the warmest spots in the wine mecca of Willamette Valley. All the Stoller vines are on south-facing hills. That means a longer growing season, which results in greater natural acidity and more complex flavors in the grapes. That helps give the region's Pinot Noirs a unique, fruit forward taste.

One of our group's favorite wines was unexpected, a delightful Pinot Noir rose bursting with citrus and melon flavors. After a hot bus ride from Portland, it was just the ticket. We sipped appreciatively as we walked to the vineyard.

While enjoying a picnic lunch under the shade of Douglas Firs, we sampled a crisp 2011 stainless steel Chardonnay, a 2011 Dry Riesling and the 2009 Pinot, which uses fruit from the east vineyards. The '09 is an approachable fruit forward wine.

Our tour then led us to the fermentation room for a sampling of three Chards made with Stoller grape: Adelsheim, Chehalem Vineyard and Stoller Reserve, all 2010 vintages. Our tasting team leaned toward the buttery balance of the Chehalem, but there was a strong vote for the well rounded Stoller.

It was unseasonably hot, so it was a joy to wind our way down to the barrel cellar to dig into Stoller's famous Pinots. There we had perhaps the highlight of the visit with the 2008 Stoller SV Pinot Noir. This is a winning wine from the first drop to the last. In addition to gorgeous fruit, there is a savory streak of herbs that leads to a refreshing finish. We tasted three other '08 Pinots, all named for family members. We sampled Helen's, Nancy's and Cathy's. The standout of this trio was Helen's --which was just released the day before.

Stoller is a family estate winery and former turkey farm. The love of the land shines through in their elegant wines, environmental practices and farming techniques. The winery and ground are spectacular with an impressive new tasting room scheduled for September.

There's gold in the hills of Dundee and you can find it at Stoller.

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Indiana’s Easley Winery Scores Sweet Success With Reggae Red Wine

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Reggae Red, a product of the Reggae Wines brand of downtown Indianapolis' Easley Winery, took top honors at the Long Beach Grand Cru International Wine Competition earlier this month. Earning the prestigious title of Sweepstakes Winner, Reggae Red was voted by judges as the favorite among all gold medal-winning sweet red wines.
"One day on vacation in 2005, sitting by the beach in the Florida Keys sipping on cocktails and listening to island jams, a light bulb clicked on in my head," recalls Meredith Easley, co-owner of Easley Winery. "Why shouldn't party people have a party wine? Thus Reggae Wines were born, and who would have thought that seven years later we'd be winning top honors at wine competitions for such an idea."
Reggae Red is a chillable sweet red blend with bold fruit flavors and smooth finish, providing a unique balance of flavor and attitude. Reggae Red stands as the best-selling wine for the Hoosier winery. "The wine community has overlooked a key demographic of taste profile for decades: the sweet wine drinker," notes Mark Easley, co-owner of Easley Winery. "You're now beginning to see a trend emerging with sweet red blends, and we can say confidently that we've been ahead of the curve and we're producing a high-quality, fruit-forward product."
Easley Winery has been family owned and operated in downtown Indianapolis since 1974. Now in its second generation of ownership, Mark & Meredith Easley continue the tradition of high-quality, award-winning wines produced right in the heart of Indiana.
The Long Beach Grand Cru International Wine Competition was held July 20-21, 2012 at the Long Beach Petroleum Club in Long Beach, CA. This annual event was started in 1995 as a means to raise funding and awareness for the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (LAFLA), an organization offering legal services and education for low-income families struggling to gain self-sufficiency. Today this competition, coupled with a public tasting of winning wines, marks the Long Beach Grand Cru as one of the top international wine competitions in the country.
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Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Toledo Area Wine Tastings: August 15-18, 2012

Ripe Sauvignon blanc grapes.
Ripe Sauvignon blanc grapes. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Wednesday, August 15
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. 1. Landing Place Chardonnay, 2. Rayun Syrah, 3. Ruffino Modus, 4. Ruffino Moscato d’Asti. $7 flight or nominal fee per sample.

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

Thursday, August 16

Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. 1. Beurdin Reuilly – Sauvignon Blanc – France, 2. Whitehaven – Sauvignon Blanc – Marlborough, New Zealand, 3. Castillo Monseran – Garnacha – Spain, 4. ESTE – Red Blend – Spain. Flight $5 or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

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, August 17
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Wines of Chile: 1. Anakena Chardonnay, 2. Cantaluna Pinot Noir, 3. Santa Rita Malbec, 4. Errazuriz Single Vineyard Carmenere. $15 tasting.

Special Event – Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion, 7:00 – 9:30 PM. Art of the Vine. Wine: Fire & Ice (reds & whites), Tour: Fire & Ice. 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.

Saturday, August 18
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Wines of Chile: 1. Anakena Chardonnay, 2. Cantaluna Pinot Noir, 3. Santa Rita Malbec, 4. Errazuriz Single Vineyard Carmenere. $15 tasting.
The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. Seven Daughters Wines from California: 1. Seven Daughters Red Blend, 2. Seven Daughters Merlot, 3. Seven Daughters White Blend, 4. Seven Daughters Moscato. Flight $2 or nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:30 – 5:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

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

AREA WINE BARS
  • The Bistro at Maumee Wines, (419) 893-2525, 2556 Parkway Plaza, Maumee.
  • 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.
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Tuesday, August 14, 2012

2009 Michel-Schlumberger Maison Rouge, Dry Creek Valley

Dry Creek Valley is quickly becoming one or our favorite slices of Sonoma County. This red blend from Michel-Schlumberger is a delightful example of why.
With a family reunion on the horizon, I decided I wanted a really interesting red wine that would appeal to many, but not batter the bank account. I closely watched the online sales and when a half-case of 2009 Michel-Schlumberger Maison Rouge went on sale on Lot 18, I pounced.

The Maison Rouge is a blend of what seems like every red grape in the vineyard: Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Carmenère. One white (Viognier) is thrown in for good measure. Perhaps this is why the wine is so versatile.


At our reunion we enjoyed some traditional Syrian dishes like hummus, meat pies and kibbeh. We also had some nice barbequed chicken and ribs. The Maison Rouge has a nice structure that allows it to match well with the barbeque but isn’t off-putting when sipped on its own.

The body is medium light with some layers of red berries and blackberry. Thanks perhaps to the Syrah, there is spiciness in the mid-palate. It then rolls to a juicy, triumphant finish.
Michel-Schlumberger has captured the sense of place in this wine. Dry Creek Valley has a relatively cool growing season, which allows the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly. The vineyard is only 17 miles from the Pacific and in the evening, the ocean breezes cool down the vines. You can picture the sun dappled vines gently swaying in the late afternoon sun.

I paid $95 for the half-case, making each bottle about $16. This is a good discount off the $20 retail cost. This is a rustic bottle of goodness that is family-reunion tested (and given a special thumbs up by brother J.R.).

Rating: 4 of 5   Value: 4 of 5
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Monday, August 13, 2012

Tres Belle Wine & Martini Lounge Presents Italian Wine 101

Italian wine from Tuscany
Italian wine from Tuscany (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Tres Belle Wine & Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons), has joined with Wine Trends, a wine distributor featuring emerging brands and artisan wines, to present Italian 101. This introduction to Italian wines will be presented Tuesday, August 14, at 6:30 PM. The cost is $35.
The session will help you discover the beauty and simplicity of timeless Italian red and white (rosso and bianco) varietals from five wine regions. The wines will be presented with a food pairing.
Included in the tasting are:
Batasiolo Gavi, Piedmonte and Fazi Battaglia Verdicchio, Le March, paired with Misto del Mare (Seafood Salade, Calamari, Shrimp, Yellowfin Tuna)
Vitiano Rosso, Umbria, Rodano Pogiolupi, Tuscany and Castello di Bossi, Tuscany, paired with antipasto.
Fratelli Moscato, Puglia, paired with Parmigiano Reggiano.
Call for more information.
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Friday, August 10, 2012

Satek Winery Earns Two Double Gold Medals At Indy International Wine Competition

Satek Wine Gift-Fremont, IN

Satek Wine Gift-Fremont, IN (Photo credit: Steuben Tourism Pictures)

Satek Winery, (260) 495-9463, 6208 N. Van Guilder Road, Fremont, Indiana was awarded 23 medals, including two Concordance Gold Medals for its wines in the INDY International Wine Competition, held last week in West Lafayette.

Satek took Concordance Gold -- better known as Double Gold -- for its 101 Lakes Red and its 2011 Kreibaum Bay Vidal Blanc Ice Wine. Concordance Gold medals are awarded when the entire judging panel unanimously awards the wine a Gold Medal. Satek Winery also won 21 other medals for its wines, including gold medals for its Chardonnay, 2011 and Mango.

 
“It’s exciting that our best-selling wine, 101 Lakes Red, won a Double Gold. We also were awarded medals across all categories of our portfolio, from dry to semi-dry to sweet to even ice wine and our tawny port. This exemplifies our long-standing philosophy of good wine, good fun for our customers,” said owner and Cellarmaster Larry Satek.
Head Winemaker, Shane Christ, affirmed, “These medals are a tribute to our hardworking staff and particularly our local grape growers.”

The INDY International Wine Competition was held August 1-3 at Purdue University, and winning medals at this show is no small feat. The INDY is the largest independent and scientifically organized wine competition in the United States. Panels of experts from around the world conduct a blind judging to choose the winners. This year nearly 3000 entries came from 15 countries and 43 U.S. states. 50 wine industry professionals were selected to judge, including winemakers, wine writers, sommeliers, enologists, wine grape growers, chefs, wine distributors, and wine retailers.

Pam and Larry Satek opened Satek Winery in the summer of 2001, nestled on a picturesque 16-acre property in Fremont, in the heart of the region known as the “Land of 101 Lakes”. In its eleventh year, Satek Winery will produce more than 100,000 bottles of wine, with 38 varieties. They are open 7 days a week, with free tasting, from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

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Thursday, August 9, 2012

Randall Grahm’s Oldfangled Bonny Doon Wines Impress With Terroir and Taste

As you might expect from someone whose wine labels bear an image of a flying cigar spaceship, Randall Grahm is slightly out there.  He’s also delightful, knowledgeable and makes incredibly good wine.

Grahm was a special guest at a tasting of his wines at Walt Churchill’s Market in Maumee. He provided an insight into his journey to create harmonious and intellectual wines.

Grahm founded Bonny Doon Vineyard in Santa Cruz, California, in 1983. By his own admission he was obsessed with Pinot Noir and was determined to produce it. He soon learned that the land’s limestone soil and proximity to the California coast weren’t suited for the grape

Before long the “desire for success and the fear of failure” drove him to experiment with Rhone varietals at a time when grapes like Grenache were not well known to wine consumers. Soon Bonny Doon had made its mark on the world of wine with its pioneering work in exploring Rhone varieties, innovative winemaking and off-the-wall marketing.

“With intermittent positive reinforcement, we grew in complexity,” said Grahm. “It was slightly out of control.

“I had an existential moment. If I died I felt they would say, ‘what a great marketer.’ That would be really unsatisfying, even if I’m dead.”

He instead simplified and narrowed his focus. “I’m a lover of European wines, especially those that express a sense of place,” he said. “These are vin de terroir. Making them, though, is easier said than doon.”

In 2004 the vineyard adopted biodynamic farming practices and in 2006, there was a radical slimming down of product portfolio and case production. There was also a greater degree of focus and attention to detail resulting in complex wines that express the varietal character of the grapes.

The passion in the wine and the winemaker is as obvious as a hovering cigar-shaped spacecraft.

Four Bonny Doon wines were sampled:

Bonny Doon 2011 Vin Gris de Cigare – This nicely chilled wine was a lifesaver as the patio at WCM was broiling. Although a copper-pink color, this is more inviting and delicate than your typical rose. A blend of 73% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre plus Grenache Blanc, Rousanne and Cinsault.

Bonny Doon 2008 Vino Rosso – This is a rustic “spaghetti” wine made with 72% Dolcetto, 14% Nebbiolo and 14% Syrah. Off the charts with value.

Bonny Doon 2009 Contra – This is a smooth, super cool wine that is primarily old vine Carignan with roots that extend 90 feet downward. I purchased a bottle of this.

Bonny Doon 2007 Le Cigare Volant – This is the wine that brought fame to Bonny Doon, an elegant homage to Chateauneuf du Pape. It is a blend of 60% Grenache, 32% Syrah, 4% Mourvedre and 4%  Cinsault. It’s dry and bright.

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: August 8-11, 2011

Wednesday, August 8
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. 1. The Federalist Chardonnay, 2. La Maia Lina Chianti, 3. Plan Pegau, 4. Movendo Riesling. $7 flight or nominal fee per sample.
Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Bordeaux Wines. $15.


Special EventOliver House Market, 27 Broadway, Toledo. 6-8 PM, Winemaker Elizabeth Clark of Airlie Winery, Monmouth, Oregon, will present a selection of her wines. Cost $15. Includes appetizers and wine. For further information, call Matt Snyder at (419) 351-3335.

Thursday, August 2

Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. 1. La Petite Culotte – White Bordeaux – Bordeaux, France,2. Domaine Du Manoir – Muscadet – France, 3. Alianca Particular – DAO – Red Blend – Potugal, 4. Sosabe – Tabanka Red Blend – Oakville, California. Flight $4.50 or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Chillin’ & Grillin.’ Chillin’: 1. Sea Glass Sauvignon Blanc, 2. Naked Winery Pinot Gris, 3. Orin Swift Mannequin White, 4. Merkelbach Erdener Trepchen Riesling Spatlese. Grillin’: 1. Tortoise Creek Carignan, 2. Cedrus Malbec, 3. Monkey Business Zindandel, 4. Girard Petite Sirah. Nominal fee per sample.

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, August 10
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Soft Fruity Reds: 1. Evodia Garnacha, 2. Cantina Zaccagnini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, 3. Seven Artisans Petite Sirah, 4. Fritz Windisch Dornfelder$15 tasting.

Special Event – Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion, 7:00 – 9:30 PM. Art of the Vine. Wine: Dog Days of Summer (patio wines for hot days), Tour: Outdoor Animals. 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.

Saturday, August 11
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Soft Fruity Reds: 1. Evodia Garnacha, 2. Cantina Zaccagnini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, 3. Seven Artisans Petite Sirah, 4. Fritz Windisch Dornfelder$15 tasting.

 The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. New Closeouts – Great Deals: 1. Mi Terruno Sweet Torrontes, 2. Cantaluna Pinot Noir, 3. Mi Terruno Syrah, 4. Sosabe Tabanca Napa Red. Flight $2 or nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:30 – 5:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

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

AREA WINE BARS
  • The Bistro at Maumee Wines, (419) 893-2525, 2556 Parkway Plaza, Maumee.
  • 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.
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Tuesday, August 7, 2012

SE Michigan Pioneer Wine Trail Hosts Summer Picnic Trail August 11 and 12

The Southeastern Michigan Pioneer Wine Trail will provide a taste of summer on Saturday and Sunday, August 11-12.
The Wine Days of Summer, is a self-driving tour of the wineries of the Pioneer Wine Trail. At each stop you’ll be served a wonderful picnic-related food prepared by a local chef or restaurant. Each winery will provide a generous pouring of one of their wines that pairs well with the food. You’ll also receive a recipe card to take home with you.
This event includes our newest Wine Trail Member, Flying Otter Winery located in Adrian and recently reviewed by Toledo Wines & Vines. Tickets for this self-driven tour with nine delicious food and wine pairings are only $25.
Here is a link to the complete list of food and wine pairings.
The wineries included in this event are:
Burgdorf's Winery (Haslett)
Chateau Aeronautique Winery (Jackson)
Cherry Creek Cellars Old Schoolhouse Winery (Brooklyn)
Flying Otter Winery (Adrian)
J. Trees Cellars (Blissfield)
Lone Oak Vineyard Estate (Grass Lake)
Pentamere Winery (Tecumseh)
Sandhill Crane Vineyards (Jackson)
Sleeping Bear Winery & Brewpub (Parma)

Ticket holders are welcome to visit each location over the two-day event, or they may choose to limit their visits (as time permits).
Hours of the event are Saturday, August 11 from 11 am to 6 pm and Sunday, August 12 from noon to 6 pm. Tickets are available for reservation online at www.PioneerWineTrail.com.
There are a limited number of tickets available, ticket sales will end on Wednesday, August 8 at midnight (or when sold out), and tickets will not be available the day of the event. For more information call (517) 592-4663 or (517) 531-3080. If no answer, please call 517-655-2883 or 517-764-0679. Click here to order tickets online.
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Monday, August 6, 2012

Ancient Peaks 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles


Eons ago, coastal plates collided forging the ocean floor into the tall peaks that surround Ancient Peaks Winery’s Margarita Vineyard. The rocky soils are ideal for growing intensely flavored fruit.
This is good news for people like me who pop open the 2009 Ancient Peaks Cabernet Sauvignon.
It opens with a pleasing aroma of dark fruit and slight oak. On the palate this is smooth with no jarring qualities. The blend is 84% Cabernet with 8% Malbec and 8% Petit Verdot.
A fruit forward wine, it offers an abundance of cherry and currant flavors. There isn’t much backbone to the wine with nary a tannin to be found – but that doesn’t detract from the polished taste. This Cab is a people pleaser with a need for a dash more complexity. It winds up with medium-long finish.
I picked this up at Walt Churchill’s Market for about $17. It’s a nice value and a good choice for an everyday Cab.
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Rating: 3 of 5  Value: 3 of 5
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