Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Chateau Béard La Chapelle, 2008 Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, Bordeaux


This beautiful bottle of Bordeaux comes from Saint-Émilion, a French region known for its Merlot-based blends. The focus on Merlot means that Saint-Émilion wines are softer and generally are ready to drink at an earlier age.
I was excited when I purchased a duo of this Chateau Béard La Chapelle for $27 each. After all, I was getting a Saint-Émilion Grand Cru for a steal.
My enthusiasm was curbed somewhat when I investigated the classification system. In Saint-Émilion there are several tiers of wine, starting at the top with Premier Grands Cru Classés, Grands Cru Classés and then Grand Cru. So, I wasn’t at the top of the ladder like I had hoped, but there were several other designations below.
This wine was highly rated and has earned bushels of awards, so I was anticipating the uncorking. In the glass, the color is deep with purple highlights. The nose was dark cherry and spice.
On the palate this started out tannic, then rounded into a softer, full-bodied wine. Flavor notes of mint and dark chocolate abound. My spouse, the Green Dragon, sensed a flavor of toffee brickle.
This wine had a successful lift-off, but there was no ignition of stage two. It is a good wine that lacked the spark to make it truly special. It is good, but not great. I’ll allow my second bottle to age for another year or more and try it with a pork or lightly spiced beef entrée.
Rating: 3 of 5  Value: 3 of 5

Monday, September 29, 2014

Wine Tips For A Full-bodied Experience

Slide over, sweaty mug of brutish beer; wine has stepped up its game!
In the past two decades, Zins, Cabs and Chardonnay have soared in popularity among imbibing Americans. Wine, the preference of just one in four in 1992, is now the alcoholic beverage of choice for 35 percent of us, according to a 2013 Gallup poll. At the same time, beer has taken a tumble, from the favorite of nearly half of us to just 36 percent.
“Wine is an adventure in a glass – something other cultures have recognized for centuries,” says Howard Kleinfeld, author (as Howard K.) of “Dial M for Merlot,” www.DialMforMerlot.com, a fun novel about a lovelorn nerd whose world snaps to life with his first wine tasting.
“For a long time in this country, we viewed wine as an elitist beverage. Just to be eligible to uncork a bottle required a scary level of sophistication. I have great respect for connoisseurs and the sommeliers, but if you’ve ever attended a wine tasting, you quickly see wine is actually the great equalizer.”
For those who’ve never visited a vineyard or sipped a Gewurztraminer, Kleinfeld offers these tips to free up your palate -- and your psyche -- for a full-bodied experience.
1.  What’s the best wine?You’ll find all kinds of lists purporting to distill the top 10 or top 100 best wines of the thousands upon thousands of new releases each year. They are a wonderful resource for information and a great starting point, but there is no substitute for personal exploration.
“The best wine is always whatever’s in your glass at the moment,” Kleinfeld says, “unless whatever’s in your glass makes you grimace, in which case …”
2.  Don’t drink it if it doesn’t make you happy.
Life really is too short to not make the most of every moment – and every sensual experience.
“I learned that in 2007 when I was diagnosed with throat cancer at, what I felt was, a very young age,” Kleinfeld says. “I got through surgery, chemotherapy and radiation with the love and support of my family and friends, but I lost my sense of taste for a few years
Cancer-free and with all of his senses intact, Kleinfeld says he has resolved to enjoy every sip of life.
“Don’t waste your time on wine you don’t enjoy. Save it for cooking,” he says. “Drink something that puts a smile on your face. And remember – there are all kinds of smiles.”
3.  Go ahead and shell out $50 or $100 on a wine you just have to taste again.
A lot of us think California and Napa Valley when we think domestic wines, and while The Golden State is the No. 1 producer in the country (followed by Washington, Oregon and New York), every state now has wineries. That means that wherever you are, there’s a wine tasting room within driving distance.
“If you go to a wine tasting and you sample something you absolutely love, something you know you want to taste again – maybe with a steak, which they don’t usually have at wine-tasting rooms, go ahead and buy it,” Kleinfeld advises.
“Forget that it costs three or four times what you (might) usually spend for a bottle of wine. Splurge. See tip No. 2.”
4.  Forget the red with meat, white with fish and chicken rule – unless it works for you.The idea of pairing red wines with red meats has to do with the bolder flavor of both. Fish and chicken tend to have milder flavors, as do many white wines.
“But there are so many exceptions to those ‘rules’ you may as well just toss ‘em,” Kleinfeld says. “They don’t take into account the range of flavors of meat, fish and chicken, especially when you consider all the different ways they can be prepared. And if you’re not a fan of Riesling, for instance, you won’t like it no matter what you pair it with.”
Be an adventurer, he advises. Open a few different varieties of wine when you sit down to eat and explore different pairings.“The entrees and wines you best enjoy together are the perfect pairings for you.”




Friday, September 26, 2014

Zazzol Wine Aerator: A Review


The Zazzol is a wine aerator that aims to improve upon a clever idea. Our testing during a recent grand tasting event was very positive, causing us to remark, “Za-Za-Zazzol!”
There are basically two types of wine aerators. The first is the in-bottle kind which fit snugly into the top of the bottle (like the Soiree) and wine swirls through it on its way to your glass. The second type is a separate unit though which you pour the wine, like Vinturi. There are stands for Vinturi, but most commonly you hold the aerator and pour the wine through it into your glass.
It’s generally accepted that aerators improve the flavor of wine. At least that is my experience from tasting aerated wine side by side with the same wine that didn’t get the treatment.
I’ve used Vinturi for a number of years and have been pleased. I was a bit skeptical when I was asked to review Zazzol. I was pleasantly surprised, though. The Zazzol has a multi-stage design. The wine first hits an umbrella shaped disc that disperses the wine (and looks cool). The wine then pours through a perforated “drizzle plate” that turns the vino into little droplets. Your wine then swirls through a narrow cylindrical opening.
When the wine fills the glass, there is no question it is aerated. It is bubbly with a purple froth (no need to aerate white wine).
I don’t always use the aerator. When time allows, it’s much more civilized to use the decanter. However, when you’re having a glass in the evening, the aerator is the ticket for making a $15 bottle taste like $30 or reviving life into wine that has sat for a day or two.
During our recent Cabernet Grand Tasting, we used the Zazzol on six great bottles of Cab and it performed very well. Zazzol has more style than my beloved Vinturi and also is less messy. The Vinturi sometimes can back up, causing spillage.
Zazzol costs about $40. This is a fine wine accessory and a great gift idea. It has now become my aerator of choice.
Full disclosure: This was received as a marketing sample.

Thursday, September 25, 2014

Pentamere Winery: Michigan Winery Visit

TWAV winery report by Tasting Team member Dr. J.
My wife and I were overdue for an evening out without the kids.  With news of another new winery and even a brewery opening, we decided to take a trip to Tecumseh, MI.  We found out we were a few weeks early but Pentamere Winery was in our sights.
We picked the right time because we were the only ones in the tasting room and had a nice one on one with our host Nathan.  One of the first highlights from the list is the Morningstar.  This is made from the Bianca grape; one I had never had or even heard of.  Bianca is a hybrid grape that is winter hardy and highly resistant to fungal diseases.  This is an interesting, flavorful white that is crisp and tangy with stone fruit notes and a mineral finish.
Our next favorite was the 2005 Le Griffon.  This is a Bordeaux style blend of Cab Sauv, Cab Franc, and Merlot.  Medium in body with cherry, oak, and pepper, there are plenty of tannins that will give this wine quite a bit of shelf life yet.
We finished with a couple treats; a mulled red wine and an ice wine.  The mulled wine, Fireside, is a Cabernet Franc that is just that; perfect for a fireside.  I envision drinking this next to a fireplace on Christmas Eve.  As much as I love dry wines, I certainly appreciate ice wine.  The 2010 Vidal Eiswein is rich in honey and apricot.  The flavor is just luscious!
It was a very enjoyable experience to walk through the list from nearly top to bottom and discuss the different grapes involved, their source, and the style used to make the wine.  I was even given some advice on deterring some pests from my own vines.  Stop in for an affordable tasting and a very friendly staff!




Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Toledo Area Wine Events & Tastings: September 24-27, 2014

Hiking near Starvation Creek in the Columbia R...
Hiking near Starvation Creek in the Columbia River gorge in Oregon. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
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Wednesday, September 24
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. Sineann Wines (It's pronounced shi-nayne') with special guest Adam Mahler of Ampelography Wines. 1. Sineann 2012 Riesling (Oregon), 2. Sineann 2011 Pinot Noir (Oregon), 3. Sineann 2010 Abondante Red (Oregon), 4. Sineann 2008 Sugarloaf Mtn. Cab Sauv (California). Nominal fee per sample or $14 per flight.
Veritas Cork & Craft, 505 Jefferson Ave., Toledo, (419) 214-9463. Porto Kopke tasting event. 5:30 PM. $15 per person.
Thursday, September 25
Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. More Early Fall Wines: 1.
2012 La Crema – Chardonnay – Sonoma Coast, 2. 2013 Domaine Du Tariquet – Gascogne Rosé – Gascogne, France, 3. 2011 Bogle – Phantom – Clarksburg, California, 4. 2006 Del Rio Vineyards – Claret – Rogue Valley Oregon. Nominal fee per sample or $7 per flight.
Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Oregon Pinot Noir: 1.
Foris Rogue Valley, 2. Argyle Willamette Valley, 3. Torii Mor Oregon, 4. Adelsheim Willamette Valley, 5. Ken Wright Willamette Valley, 6. Patricia Green Estate Ribbon Ridge, 7. Sokol Blosser Dundee Hills, 8. Domaine Drouhin Dundee Hills Nominal fee per sample.
Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6:00 – 9:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample.
Noir Fine Wine and Beer, 1616 East Wooster, Bowling Green, 6-9 PM. Nominal fee per sample or priced per flight.
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, September 26
Maumee Wines, 2556 Parkway Plaza, Maumee, (419) 893-2525. Chardonnay and Red Meritage Tasting. 6:30 – 8:30 PM. Join us for some classic Chardonnay and Bordeaux blends, commonly referred to as Meritage wines. Hors d’oeuvres to accompany the evening and compliment the wine. $25 per person.
Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. Wine tasting. 4:00 – 7:00 PM.
Saturday, September 27
Maumee Wines, 2556 Parkway Plaza, Maumee, (419) 893-2525. Wine & Canvas event. 6:00 – 9:00 PM. $35 per person. Call (419)705-0911 for registration information.
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. A World Tour of Wines: Washington. The vast majority of wineries in Washington are small family producers making less than five thousand cases annually. Unique weather patterns with temperature fluctuations of up to forty degrees from day to night create ideal growing conditions for the region's top varietals. This area is also well known for some big players in the wine industry. See us for the best in the Northwest. Nominal fee per sample.
AREA WINE BARS
  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • Veritas Cork and Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo – (419) 214- 9463.
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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Col Solare, 2008 Red Wine, Columbia Valley


Col Solare is the partnership that brings together two recognized leaders in their respective regions: Tuscany’s Marchesi Antinori and Washington State’s Chateau Ste. Michelle. The winery is nestled into the Red Mountains of Washington State.
I was introduced to the brand while attending the Wine Bloggers Conference in Walla Walla. It was a pleasant surprise to find their 2008 Red on the wine list of Woodward Table during a recent visit to Washington, DC.
I opted for a shrimp and grits appetizer with the Coulotte steak entrée special. I don’t recall having Coulotte steak before. This is sirloin cap sliced diagonally. The chef prepared this to perfection – medium rare of course. 
The Woodward Table is a great restaurant just a short stroll from the White House and very close to the location of our group’s meeting the next morning. The restaurant offers an excellent bar, a well crafted menu plus an eclectic wine list.
Another sign of a great restaurant, at least to this wine lover, is that the waiter asked if we would like to have our wine decanted. Absolutely! Col Solare is a blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 3% Syrah. Grapes come from all-star vineyards in the Red Mountain, Columbia Valley, Wahluka Slope and Horse Heaven Hills AVAs.
The wine has rich flavors of currant and blackberries with a background of tobacco. It’s aged for 32 months, but the tannins are well blended and the overall effect is silken. It was spectacular with my steak.
Col Solare has an SRP of $75 and is a delightful wine at any price.
Rating: 4.5 of 5  Value: 3 of 5

Monday, September 22, 2014

Grand Tasting Event Highlights Superb Cabernets From Napa, Finger Lakes and Bulgaria

Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the world’s most widely recognized red grape variety. It is grown in nearly every major wine producing country in a spectrum of climates.
Toledo Wines and Vines recently enjoyed a Cabernet Grand Tasting at the home of gracious hosts Glorious T and the Cabinator to salute Cab – including a delectable Cabernet Franc. Jazz Man and Wine Chick and their daughter joined us for the evening.
The event started a bit rocky. Green Dragon had baked a braided loaf of bread and made her famous twice-baked potatoes. The potatoes, loaded with chives and garlic, were topped with melted cheese done just perfectly.
I was bringing a couple of decanters, an aerator, three bottles of wine and other necessities to the tasting. Unfortunately, I earned the wrath of Green Dragon by squashing the potatoes into the box and putting the decanters on top, thereby smushing her perfect potatoes!
Then the Cabinator was grilling our bacon-wrapped filets outside on the deck when a threatening rainstorm rolled in. He finished the steaks with the aid of an umbrella and the meat was seasoned with some Ohio rainwater.
Glorious T opened the tasting with a classy Champagne toast of Moët & Chandon Imperial. We then prepared our plates adding salad and roasted asparagus and, of course, the Cabernet!
Here’s our tasting list for the evening:
  • Moët & Chandon Imperial
  • 2007 Thomas Halby Vintner Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
  • 2009 Maroon Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Spring Mountain, Napa Valley
  • 2012 Ravines Cabernet Franc, Finger Lakes
  • 2010 M by Martellotto Cabernet Sauvignon, Spring Mountain, Napa Valley
  • 2007 Bloomer Creek Vintner’s Select Cabernet Sauvignon, Finger Lakes
  • 2008 Castra Rubra, Thracian Valley, Bulgaria
The Thomas Halby was a hit straight out of the bottle. It was a pleasant surprise with a lush body. 2007 is a great vintage and the aging has integrated the tannins into an elegant, rich wine that paired wonderfully with the filet.
We decanted all the wines, but probably not as long as we should have. (We were thirsty!) Case in point was the 2009 Maroon. This came out a bit tannic, but then settled down. On the front there is a hint of sweetness and an intense middle with oak and herbs. This produces a tingle on the tongue and has a medium long finish.
Our next wine was the 2012 Ravines Cabernet Franc. This beautiful wine was popping with flavors. For me it scored with light, rich notes of raspberry and currants. This is Finger Lakes Cab Franc at its finest and our group signaled approval by emptying their glasses.
By this time, Cabinator (who I told had to earn his nickname) and I had fallen into a rhythm. He’d pour the wine from the decanter while I held the Zazzol aerator. When one decanter was emptied, we’d fill it up with another wine while we brought out the other wine that was decanting.
On we moved to the M by Martellotto, another Spring Mountain wine from Napa. This is a 2010, but it wasn’t as tannic as the Maroon. It evolved nicely in the glass with a superb flavor of blueberry jam. This Cab is notable for its black fruit and silky, satisfying finish.
When we last visited the Finger Lakes, we came upon a hidden gem: Bloomer Creek. This winery excels in Riesling, but also with quality reds. Cabinator purchased a bottle of their 2007 Bloomer Creek Vintner’s Reserve and decided this was the night to pop the cork.
The Bloomer Creek Cab was outstanding, which is quite a statement on an evening that featured three knockouts from Napa Valley. The wine is fruit forward, with grape jelly flavors and a butterscotch brickle finish. This was not a thin, weepy Cabernet, but a well-crafted red – one of the few Finger Lakes Cabs to make the cut list of the Cabinator!
Evening was closing in. The skies were dark. Palates were fatigued. It had been an incredible evening of Cabernet. But there was still a surprise left – a Cabernet blend from Bulgaria.
Bulgaria is an important wine-producing country in eastern Europe. It is ahead on many of its neighbors because it was quicker to adopt Western friendly varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. These are two of the top grapes grown in the country.
I picked up the 2008 Castra Rubra on a whim at Corks. It is a blend of 43% Cabernet, 42% Merlot, and 15% Cabernet Franc. Grapes come from the Thracian Plain, which is part of the great southern Bulgarian wine region. It is well protected from cold winds to the north of the Balkan Mountains and further protected from the south central part of the Rhodopes. The wine is named after the ancient Roman fortress Castra Rubra (Red Fort), whose ruins are located near the village Kolarovo.
The winemaker is Michel Rolland, an influential wine producer and consultant from Bordeaux. This is an enormous coup for Castra Rubra and Bulgarian wine.
This bottle is succulent with black berries and earth. It is a hearty wine that probably could have used another hour or so of decanting. It’s complex with some spiciness and licorice on the long finish.
What a way to end – but the quest for outstanding Cabernet never really is finished. It’s just the beginning!

Friday, September 19, 2014

Strato 2013 Chenin Blanc, Clarksburg

This wine was specially created for Lot 18 by winemakers Richard Bruno and Chris Condos, who own and operate Vinum Cellars. I got this from TWAV tasting team member Dr. J, who advised me that he was overenthusiastic purchasing wine and wanted to reduce his inventory.
I was happy to help out by buying a few bottles. We love Chenin Blanc and so this was one of my first selections. I was first introduced to the grape via the French Vouvray wines of the Loire Valley.
Clarksburg may be the best source of Chenin Blanc in California. The AVA has 10,000 acres of vines and most go to wineries outside of their region. It’s climate is cooler than Napa and Lodi.
Chenin Blanc is crisp without being crazy acidic. It has ample flavor without becoming a fruit cocktail.
The Strato is pale yellow in the glass. The aroma has a springtime freshness. On the palate there are citrus notes including lemon. It’s a juicy wine with medium acidity. On the back end it finishes with a slight herbal note.
This is a great food wine and should go well with Asian dishes that have a bit of heat as well as pork or veal.
For about $16, I consider this a great value. I’m always on the lookout for interesting whites. This fills the bill as a wine that would be enjoyable during the heat of a summer day, but also a perfect pairing with a medium bodied entrée any time of year.
Rating: 3 of 5  Value: 4 of 5
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Thursday, September 18, 2014

Henry of Pelham 2007 Cabernet-Merlot Meritage, Niagara Peninsula VQA


This wine is an unusual purchase for us. We visited the Niagara Peninsula in Ontario a couple years ago and loved the area. The wineries were fantastic and the wine enchanting.
We were racing along the back roads as the afternoon turned into evening. We had to make it to our hotel in Niagara Falls, but were trying to hit every winery along the way. Henry of Pelham is a highly rated winery we hoped to stop at, but just couldn’t locate.
In the end we gave up and regretted the missed opportunity. However, as we stopped at the duty free store at the border in Windsor on the way home I spied this bottle of Henry of Pelham Meritage. Soon it was crossing the border into a new country.
This wine is medium in body with blackberry and chocolate flavors. As it opened up the flavors of earth and dark fruit were more pronounced.
I was hoping that this wine would indeed be very special, but it fell short of the mark. The flavor profile was nice indeed and the wine had some character to it – but didn’t have the complexity that makes a superior wine. The flavor you got on the front end was pretty much the same until the finish faded away.
In the Niagara Peninsula, Cabernet Franc not Cabernet Sauvignon is king. This blend is an enjoyable armchair sipper, but did not change my opinion.
Rating: 2.5 of 5  Value: 3 of 5 (based on $14US)

Wednesday, September 17, 2014

Toledo Area Wine Events & Tastings: September 17-20, 2014

English: Photograph of 2 bottles of Mollydooke...
Two bottles of Mollydooker Wine side by side (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
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Wednesday, September 17
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. Hahn Family Wines with winery representative. 1. Hahn 2012 Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir, 2. Boneshaker 2012 Zinfandel, 3. Smith & Hook 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, 4. Hahn 2012 Meritage. Nominal fee per sample or $10 per flight.
Thursday, September 18
Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Early Fall Wines: 1. 2012 ÜberSchwang – Goldtröpfchen Riesling – Mosel, Germany, 2. 2013 Cheteau Suau – Bordeaux Rose – Bordeaux, France, 3. 2012 Menage a Trois – Midnight – St. Helena, California, 4. 2013 Apothic – Dark – Modesto, California. Nominal fee per sample or $5.50 per flight.
Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Mollydooker Night Opulence at Its Best. Mollydooker is one of the great success stories in wine in the last twenty years. Sarah and Sparky Marquis make wine like no one else in the world: big, lush, plush, opulent, round, rich and unctuous. Mollydooker Night is a much-anticipated tasting event in our wine shop.  1. Mollydooker The Scooter Merlot, 2. Mollydooker Two Left Feet, 3. Mollydooker The Boxer Shiraz, 4. Mollydooker The Maitre D' Cabernet, 5. Mollydooker Gigglepot Cabernet, 6. Mollydooker Enchanted Path, 7. Mollydooker Carnival of Love Shiraz. Nominal fee per sample.
Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6:00 – 9:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample.
Noir Fine Wine and Beer, 1616 East Wooster, Bowling Green, 6-9 PM. Nominal fee per sample or priced per flight.
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, September 19
Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. Wine tasting. 4:00 – 7:00 PM.
Maple Grove Golf Course, Lambertville, Michigan. 7:00 – 9:00 PM. Wine tasting by Flick's Package Liquor. $30 nonmembers, $25 members. A buffet dinner is included along with live music by Mike Fisher. RSVP to (734) 854-2000.
Saturday, September 20
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. A World Tour of Wines: France. Near and dear in the hearts of many die hard wine aficionados; the French have captured the top spot for regional climate differences, wine tourism, category defining wine styles, collectability and a storied history of excellence. Join us in a Tour de France wine style as we taste through the major regions. Nominal fee per sample.
AREA WINE BARS
  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • Veritas Cork and Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo – (419) 214- 9463.
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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Paglione Estate Winery: Lake Erie North Shore Winery Visit


After picnicking and hiking in Point Pelee National Park in Ontario, the southernmost part of the country, we decided to hit a winery or maybe two before heading home to the US of A. It was nearing 5:00 PM, and that always is dicey because tasting rooms tend to close around that time.
As we drove the back roads, half using the GPS and half guessing at the correct route, I saw a sign for Paglione Estate Winery. I had never heard of this one and so decided Green Dragon and I should pay a visit.
Paglione is situated on 40 acres of land in Harrow, in the heart of the Lake Erie North Shore (LENS) region. They have 10 acres of vineyards and have been open for about a year.
The building architecture is Tuscan-style and it reflects the winemaking philosophy of small batch production using estate grown or locally produced grapes.
Sam Paglione, a native of Capracotta, Italy, is the patriarch of the family and has been making wine for almost 40 years. Wife Nancy and other family members help make the winery a success.
The inside of the tasting room is expansive, with high ceilings and an arched section with paintings of clouds and playful cherubs. We ambled in to the tasting bar to sample the goods.
Our first wine was the 2013 Estate Riesling. This was one of my favorites of the bunch, with citrus notes, medium acidity and a touch of sweetness. On the white side, we also tasted the 2013 Chardonnay and purchased a bottle.
For the reds, we began with the 2011 Chambourcin. Chambourcin is one of my favorite French-American hybrid grapes. The Paglione bottling is light in body, tart and awash with great strawberry flavors. This was my favorite red.
We also sampled the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2011 Cabernet. There was a slight disconnect then as the hostess informed me that Cabernet and Cabernet Sauvignon are two different grapes – say what?
We thought that perhaps the “Cabernet” might have been a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, but a check of wine list showed exactly the same descriptors for both wines. Both vintages of the Cab were light, smooth and enjoyable, but without the body and depth we prefer in a Cabernet. 
Other reds included the Erie red blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Syrah. This was also light in body with floral notes and touches of cherry. The 2012 Cabernet Franc had pleasant flavors of mulberry and raspberry.
We weren’t quite sure where the grapes for these bottlings came from as the wines weren’t marked “estate” and the labels didn’t carry the Lake Erie North Shore VQA designation. At least some grapes may have come from the plentiful vineyards in the area. That’s not unusual for new wineries while their own vineyards mature.
As we were enjoying our tasting, the kitchen was kept hopping. We were told that the tasting room hours are a bit longer than other wineries in the area due to their popular kitchen. You can purchase a bottle of wine, sit out on their sunny patio and watch your brick oven pizza being cooked. The pizza looked delicious.
Paglione, which opened in 2013, is off to a great start. The wine, food, family atmosphere and surroundings are perfect for enjoying La Dolce Vita, Ontario style!

Monday, September 15, 2014

Moldovan Wines Seeking Awareness In United States Market And On National Stage

Whenever we can strike a blow for freedom – and it involves drinking wine – we’re in all the way. Moldova is one of the oldest wine regions in the world with historical mentions dating back to Homer’s Iliad.

Russia, the biggest customer for wine from Moldova, has placed an embargo on Moldovan wine except for five wineries in a primarily Russian-speaking province. This was followed by efforts to stir up interest in Gaugazia becoming an independent region.

Sounds like a page from the Vladimir Putin’s playbook! Now with the support of US Secretary of State, John Kerry, Wine of Moldova, a government body looking to raise international awareness and sales, is launching their first campaign to promote Moldovan Wines in the US.

Resembling the form of a cluster of grapes sandwiched between Ukraine and Romania, The Republic of Moldova lies in the Black Sea basin offering winemakers an ideal climate for vinification. Moldova has the greatest density of vineyards in the world with more than 276,000 acres of grape vines.

Moldova cultivates indigenous varietals like Feteasca Alba, Feteasca Neagra, Rara Neagra, Traminer, and Saperavi as well as the better known Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc. Almost 25% of the country’s workforce is employed by the wine industry.
We were fortunate to receive a couple bottle of Moldovan wine to sample. The first is Golden Land Feteasca Neagra. The name of this Romanian-Moldovan grape means “black maiden” and the shade of this wine is a deep ruby. The bouquet is barnyard with aromas of meat.

As the nose will tell you, this is not your typical Pinot Noir, let’s say. It is a bold wine with savory flavors and deep raspberry notes. This would be a great choice with lamb or game.

The Chateau Vartely Traminer is a wine with whitish-green color. It comes from the southern Moldovan region of Codru. This region of forest, hills and rolling countryside is the best place to sample Moldovan white and sparkling wines. It is also the location of Romanesti, the former wine making colony of the imperial Romanov dynasty.

Traminer is a family of white grapes with Gerwurztraminer being the most well known. This wine lives up to its heritage, with a very floral bouquet. It has a dry finish with moderate acidity and rose petal and grapefruit flavors. It is refreshing and enjoyable.

One of my good friends who visits eastern Europe regularly proclaims that he has never had a bad Moldovan wine. We enjoyed the chance to sample this pair and hope to see greater availability and success in the U.S. market for Moldovan wines.

Full Disclosure: These wines were received as marketing samples.






Friday, September 12, 2014

Sensi Mantello 2009 Sangiovese- Shiraz, Tuscany


This unique wine was sampled during a visit to the home of tasting team members Jazz Man and Wine Chick. It’s a rebellious wine for those who are seeking adventure.
During our tasting we enjoyed a rosé from Pays d’Oc in France, a red wine from Moldova, a great Malbec from Argentina – but everyone was looking forward to this vino. Sensi is one of the largest producers in the region and has had a rich, successful presence in the Tuscan Hills for 120 years.
This Mantello Sangiovese-Shiraz is an IGT wine and the makers have the same freedom to break the rules as producers of Super Tuscan wines. IGT wines can mix traditional Italian grapes like Sangiovese and Nebiollo with Cabernet or Shiraz creating crazy good blends.
Mantello is a highly rated wine that is ageworthy. It’s earned accolades as one of the top wines in Italy.
The aroma is barnyard and forest floor – and I mean that in a good way. It’s loaded with character and isn’t just a meek, “here’s a tad of cherry flavor” wine. Don’t be lead by “shiraz” on the label – there is no trace of Australian sweetness in the glass. This is the brambly, Syrah version of the grape.
It’s layered and sophisticated with the flavors dialed into the earthy sector. Plum, cherry and some pepper swirl about. This wine will go great with beef, venison and perhaps an autumn firepit on the patio.
Green Dragon hemmed and hawed about the aroma. Meanwhile I sat back with Jazz Man and enjoyed the latest conspiracies on Ancient Aliens while the wine opened up in the glass. The wine became rich and expansive.
Mantello is recommended by me for those adventurers who enjoy rich and hearty wines that are off the beaten path.

Thursday, September 11, 2014

Annual Island Wine Festival Coming To Put-In-Bay October 4

The Annual Island Wine Festival will be held Saturday, October 4, at Put-In-Bay. Representatives from wineries across the US will be on hand for festival goers to sample more than 400 of their wines. Also featured will be great food, a display on the history of island wineries, winery and grape related merchandise.
Sampling tickets are $1 each with most samples $1 to $2 with some from $4 to $5. Retail sales are available so you can take your favorite bottle home with you. This is a great time to find a wine for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
Heineman's, Put-in-Bay Winery and several other island and Ohio wineries will be participating. A silent auction will be held with items including a vacation package, large bottles of wine, and other fine gifts. The silent auction benefits the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society. The event is scheduled 11 AM to 6 PM at Put-In-Bay Winery.


Wednesday, September 10, 2014

Toledo Area Wine Events & Tastings: September 10-13, 2014

Bottle and glass photo of an Alexander Valley ...
Bottle and glass photo of an Alexander Valley California Cabernet from Sonoma County. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
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Wednesday, September 10
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. Animal Label Wines: Tasty wines that go down swimmingly and will make you quack, ribbit and whinny with joy. 1. Opici Vino Bianco, 2. Frog's Leap Merlot, 3. Wild Horse Cabernet Sauvignon, 4. Duckhorn Paraduxx Red Blend. Nominal fee per sample or $11 per flight.
Thursday, September 11
Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Affordable Pinots: 1. 2012 Cleebourg – Pinot Gris – Alsace, France, 2. 2010 Pierre André – Pinot Noir – Bourgogne, France, 3. 2012 Portlandia – Pinot Noir – Oregon, 4. 2012 Picket Fence – Pinot Noir – Russian River Valley. Nominal fee per sample or $6.50 per flight.
Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Great Chilean and Argentine Red Wine Deals: 1. Mapema Sauvignon Blanc, 2. Tapiz Chardonnay, 3. Zolo Signature Red, 4. Crucero Merlot 5. Siegel Cabernet, 6. Zuccardi Malbec, 7. Clos de los Siete, 8. Norton Late Harvest Chardonnay. Nominal fee per sample.
Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6:00 – 9:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample.
Noir Fine Wine and Beer, 1616 East Wooster, Bowling Green, 6-9 PM. Nominal fee per sample or priced per flight.
Third Street Cigar, 20 N. 3rd St., Waterville, (419) 441-0020. 6-9 PM. Wine and Cigar Pairing with Maumee Wines. $25 for wine tasting ticket, $50 for cigar/wine pairing ticket.
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, September 12
Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. Wine tasting. 4:00 – 7:00 PM.
Saturday, September 13
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. A World Tour of Wines: Italy. Arguably considered at or near the top in in wine production and quality, there can be little argument that Italy has a stable of grapes surpassed by no other region. This week we will explore the many styles of Italian wine making and taste varieties that are familiar and maybe not so familiar. Nominal fee per sample.
AREA WINE BARS
  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • Veritas Cork and Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo – (419) 214- 9463.
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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]

Tuesday, September 9, 2014

Swedish Hill 2012 Dry Riesling, Finger Lakes


September is the month to celebrate Finger Lakes Riesling. the region boasts 250 acres of Riesling vines and more than 220,000 cases are produced annually.
This is also the time when Finger Lakes wine producers will debut their 2013 vintage. On September 27 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM EDT, you can be part of the Riesling celebration by opening up a bottle (or two or three) of your favorite Finger Lakes Rieslings and posting pictures on Facebook (tag @Finger Lakes Wine in your posts), or using Twitter (use #flxwine), and Instagram (use #flxwine).
Later this month we’ll have a report on the 2013 Finger Lakes Riesling vintage. In order to tune up our Riesling palate, we popped open a bottle of Swedish Hill 2012 Dry Riesling.
We brought this with us on our trip to a cabin in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. We paired it with a salmon dinner and the company of eight of our good friends.
The wine has a classic Finger Lakes Riesling flavor profile. A combination of bracing crispness with slate-like minerality rolls pleasantly with flavors of green apple and citrus. This wine has elegance that has earned it 11 gold medals.
Swedish Hill has been recognized as one of the top Finger Lakes wineries, copping the Governor’s Cup three times. The Peterson family owns not only Swedish Hill, but two other standout Finger Lakes wineries, Goose Watch and Penguin Bay.
There’s a style of Riesling for everyone, whether you prefer a precise dry wine or one that is delightfully sweet. September is a great time to try the king of white grapes, especially from America’s top Riesling region, New York’s Finger Lakes.
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Monday, September 8, 2014

Pays d’Oc Wines Deliver French Flavor and Value

Located in France’s southern Languedoc Rousillon region, Pays d’OC winemakers produce a wide range of wines with character and value. Pays d’Oc is France’s largest contributor to the “country wine” category.
Vin de pays is the second quality tier in France below the Appellation d’Origine Contrȏlée and above table wine. The wines are geographically controlled, but the regulations are less strict than with AOC wines. The vin de pays term is being phased out in favor of Indication Géographique Protégée (IGP).
Some would say that vin de pays can be produced with exceptional creative freedom. They certainly deliver great value for enjoyable French wine.
At a recent get-together, we popped open the 2013 Père et Fils Cinsault-Syrah rosé. We were winding down at the house of Sax Man and Wine Chick, two TWAV tasting team members.
Rosé is on the rise in Pays d’Oc, accounting now for about 20% of all production. We can see why. Rosé is one of the hottest wine trends in the U.S. This wine was especially delicious.
If I only drank in the Père et Fils with my eyes, it would have been superlative. The color is a striking pink-orange. On the nose there is a waft of apricot.
On the palate the wine is bright with a light to medium body, similar to Riesling. We’ve never had a Cinsault-Syrah rosé before and the grape combination seems ideal. The wine, which is 70% Cinsault and 30% Syrah, is harvested at night high in the Languedoc hills. It has light filtration and matures on lees in stainless steel tanks.
A few days later, Green Dragon and I checked out a white Pays d’Oc wine, the Fortant de France 2012 Coast Select Muscat. Like the rosé, it retails for $10.99.
This wine is 100% Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains. This “white Muscat with little berries” is considered to be the best of the Muscat grape family.
The nose is expansive, with aromas of rose and honeysuckle. In the mouth this wine has a round and tropical flavor. The finish includes a pop of sweetness.
A rich wine, it seems ideal for a lazy summer day. Perhaps this reflects its origin in the sun-dappled Mediterranean coast.
There is a misconception that French wines are difficult to decipher and very expensive. Wines from Pay’s d’Oc allow you to enjoy the French lifestyle with gusto without worries of a busted budget.
Full disclosure: These wines were received as a marketing sample.

Friday, September 5, 2014

Grand River Valley Wine Region to Host 3rd Annual Cask Tasting On September 13

Wine cellar in Burgundy

Wine cellar in Burgundy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Winegrowers of the Grand River Valley are pleased to announce their third annual tasting event, “Cask 1014”, on September 13 from Noon-5:00 PM. Debonné Vineyards, Ferrante Winery & Ristorante, Grand River Cellars Winery & Restaurant, Laurello Vineyards, and St. Joseph Vineyards are participating in this drive-yourself tour.

The wine tasting, which includes the limited release of the Cask 1014 red wine, will be paired with food samples to compliment the wine perfectly. The cost is $6 at each winery.

The Cask project was a joint effort of the 5 different wineries to each purchase a 500-gallon cask barrel, using oak from different countries. Each location then put only regional red wines from their winery into the barrel, resulting in wines that are smooth, dry, and full of flavors. The first vintage in the barrel was in 2010 and a second vintage was added in 2011 and the 3rd in 2012. This years' blend was bottled in 2014, thus the name Cask 1014 -- the year the project started “10” and the year the wine was bottled “14”. Each year, 100 gallons will be bottled from these amazing barrels, making room for the next years harvest.

All five participating wineries are within 10 minutes of each other, making this a very convenient excursion for travelers. Each winery will feature their cask wine and another regional wine paired with an appetizer. The cost is only $6 per person at each winery.

"This is truly the elite tasting event of the year," says Nicholas Ferrante, owner and winemaker of Ferrante Winery and Ristorante. "The cask wines from the five area wineries are all about bottling the best that we have. The blends are amazing and the consumer can really taste the difference an oak barrel can make."

With the event being in mid-September, during harvest season, it is highly likely that grape pickers will be in the fields and grapes being pressed at some of the wineries. The smell of grapes is sure to permeate your senses as you drive around to the different wineries.

While visiting the area the group encourages travelers to take a mini-vacation and spend their weekend in wine country. There are lots of shops to visit and beautiful covered bridges to check out in the area. For those looking for other things to do contact the Ashtabula County Convention & Visitors Bureau (www.visitashtabulacounty.com) or the Lake County Convention & Visitors Bureau (www.lakevisit.com).

The Winegrowers of the Grand River Valley formed a group several years ago when they began to realize how quickly their wine region was growing. The Grand River Valley Wine Region is one of the fastest growing wine regions in the United States and has the quality wines to prove why. Member wineries have achieved national and international recognition with award winning wines. These wineries must adhere to strict standards.

The Cask Tasting is just one of a series of events The Winegrowers of the Grand River Valley host each year. Other events include the ever-popular Ice Wine Festival and The Turkey Trot.

For more information about the Cask Tasting call 440-466-3485 or go to www.grandrivercellars.com and click on events listing.

Thursday, September 4, 2014

Elizabeth Spencer Wines Featured In Inaugural Veritas Cork & Craft Tasting

By now we hope that you know that Veritas Cork & Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, is open for business. It’s downtown Toledo’s hottest destination for wine, craft beer, artisan cocktails and just plain chillin.’
We got a tweet last week from co-owner Nick Kubiak who let us know that their first tasting was happening that evening. It was like Commissioner Gordon had turned on the bat signal! We dashed to the car and sped (as quickly as you can on construction-riddled I-75) to the hip new wine bar.
The featured wines were from Elizabeth Spencer, a California winery with a focus on Napa and Rutherford that has more recently ventured into Sonoma and Mendocino. The wine style is intense without being overly heavy, with pure flavors and persistent finishes.
Scott Burgess, national sales director for Elizabeth Spencer, conducted the tasting in the retail area of the wine bar. There is no Elizabeth Spencer, by the way, it is a combination of the names of partners Elizabeth Pressler and Spencer Graham.
First up was the 2013 Mendocino Proprietor Selected Sauvignon Blanc. This is a vibrant, fresh white with crisp flavors of grapefruit and lemon. What a great start to the tasting.
The 2012 Mendocino Chardonnay is fermented in stainless steel and then finished in neutral oak barrels. As a result this special cuvee is round and delicate – not overwhelmed by oak.
My pick of the whites was the 2012 Mendocino Pinot Blanc. Forty barrels were produced and each apparently is a beauty. This has layers of citrus with a pinch of flowers. There is a balancing minerality. If purity of flavor is the aim of Elizabeth Spencer, they hit a bulls eye with this wine. The SRP is only $18.50, so it is quite a bargain.
On the red side of the spectrum, we began with a superb 2011 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. Black cherry flavors flow in a velvety mouthfeel. This is a delicious wine with the prominent note being dark red fruit, but with some complexity and earth tones. The grapes come from the Petaluma Gap region where ocean breezes create ideal Pinot Growing conditions. We grabbed a bottle of this for $33.50.
The 2011 Napa Valley Cabernet was the favorite of several guests at the tasting. Although a solid wine, it wasn’t my favorite. It is bright and smooth, but seemed to have less heartiness than I was expecting. Perhaps a year or three of aging will perfect it.
We were preparing to wrap up when some special bottles appeared from under the bar. That’s always a good sign at a tasting!
The first bonus wine was the 2011 Sonoma Coast Syrah. No wonder it was under the table – they only produced 13 barrels. This is a deep red wine with fruit that explodes from the glass. Smooth and rich, it is a wine with character.
We finished the tasting with the 2012 Mendocino Grenache. This was the most outstanding of the reds (although the Pinot gives close chase). A bright garnet color, flavors of raspberry roil through this medium bodied wine. It is a Grenache with finesse and bright, clear notes of red currant and traces of spice.
It was my first tasting of Elizabeth Spencer wines and they were impressive. Green Dragon and I were pleased to be part of the very first Veritas tasting. They should have had T-shirts! If you haven’t been to Veritas yet, consider this your insider tip and get a move on.

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Toledo Area Wine Events & Tastings: September 3-6, 2014

A glass of Sauvignon blanc wine from the Calif...
A glass of Sauvignon blanc wine from the California winery of J. Lohr (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
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Wednesday, September 3
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. Special Wine and Cheddar Cheese Tasting: 1. Laetitia Arroyo Grande 2012 Chardonnay, 2. Chateau La Bernede 2010 Bordeaux Rouge, 3. Smith & Hook Cabernet Sauvignon, 4. Quinta do Noval Late Bottled Vintage Porto. Nominal fee per sample or $8 per flight.
Thursday, September 4
Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. End of Summer Wines: 1.
2013 Sola – Sauvignon Blanc – California, 2. 2011 Sola – Cabernet Sauvignon – California, 3. 2012 Juicy Rebound – Juicy Villages Red Blend – California, 4. 2010 Aglianico – La Provencale Red Blend – Campania, Italy. Nominal fee per sample or $5 per flight.
Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Delightful Pinot Gris & Pinot Noir: 1. Foris Pinot Gris, 2. The Furst Pinot Gris, 3. Elk Cove Pinot Gris, 4. Claudia Springs Pinot Gris, 5. Angeline Pinot Noir, 6. Point North Pinot Noir, 7. Alexander Valley Vineyards Pinot Noir, 8. Migration Pinot Noir. Nominal fee per sample.
Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6:00 – 9:00 PM. Good almost evening. In preparation for the Greek Festival in Toledo this coming weekend, we offer a wine tasting featuring Greek Wines as the theme. Both whites and reds will be available as well as a semi-sweet selection. Nominal fee per sample.
Noir Fine Wine and Beer, 1616 East Wooster, Bowling Green, 6-9 PM. Nominal fee per sample or priced per flight.
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, September 5
Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. Wine tasting. 4:00 – 7:00 PM.
Saturday, September 6
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. A World Tour of Wines: Sonoma, California. Only 6% of Sonoma County`s acreage is planted to vineyards and represents only 6% of all California wine made. In addition, with all the ancient geological activity in the area, there is greater diversity of soils then is found in all of France. Join us in tasting some stand out wines from an area that gets little respect and recognition. Nominal fee per sample.
AREA WINE BARS
  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • Veritas Cork and Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo – (419) 214- 9463.
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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]