Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Toledo Area Wine Events & Tastings: April 29–May 2, 2015


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Wednesday, April 29
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. Bradley's Picks: 1. Stag's Leap “The Investor” Red Wine, 2. Estancia “Meritage” Red Wine, 3. Banfi “Rosso di Montalcino,” 4. Buehler “Napa Cabernet.” $12 flight or nominal fee per sample.

Veritas Cork and Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo – (419) 214- 9463. 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Wednesday Wine Tasting. Come out with friends, have fun, taste good juice! $15 per person.

Thursday, April 30
Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. New Spring Wines: 1. 2014 Cavalchina – Custoza – White Blend – Italy, 2. 2014 Rio Madre – Graciano – Rosé – Rioja, Spain, 3. 2012 Buena Vista – The Count – Red Blend – Sonoma, California, 4. 2010 Ridge – Merlot – Monte Bello Vineyard, Santa Cruz Mountains Estates. $9 flight or nominal fee per sample.

Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Down Under with d'Arenberg and other Australian Wines: 1. d'Arenberg The Stump Jump GSM, 2. d'Arenberg The Stump Jump Shiraz, 3. d'Arenberg High Trellis Cabernet, 4. d'Arenberg Footbolt Shiraz, 5. d'Arenberg  Laughing Magpie Shiraz, 6. Red Knot Shiraz, 7. Selkirk Bremerton Shiraz, 8. Imprimata Proprietary Red. Nominal fee per sample,

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Weekly wine tasting: 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, May 1
Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. Wine tasting – 4:00 – 7:00 PM.
Saturday, May 2
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Wine tasting.
AREA WINE BARS
  • Veritas Cork and Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo – (419) 214- 9463.
  • Zinful Wine Bar, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.
Technorati Tags:  
[Information on tastings can be sent toTWAV@ATT.NET.]

Up & Coming: 
Tuesdays – Weekly wine tasting at Forrester's on the River, 26 Main St. Toledo – (419) 691-2626. 5:00 – 7:00 PM. Five to six unique tastings of wine, that are not found on the menu, along with an assortment of tapas style appetizers to complement the wines.  Tastings are between $10-$15 per person and are held in their wine bar (Paige's Wine Bar).
May 15Wood County Humane Society Wine and Dine. 7:00 to 10:00 PM at Graystone Banquet Hall 29101 Hufford Rd., Perrysburg. Advance tickets $50 per person, $90 per couple or $175 for four. Tickets available online.

Monday, April 27, 2015

Anthony Road 2011 Cabernet Franc - Lemberger, Finger Lakes

This wine emerged during our first firepit of the season. The weather finally was warm enough to sit on the back patio, set some logs ablaze, and uncork some wine while surrounded by blazing tiki torches.

Anthony Road is a showcase winery of the Finger Lakes with a wide open tasting room, beautiful garden, and a great view to Lake Seneca. They also have one of the broadest lineups of wine in the region.

During our last visit I became entranced by Lemberger. I believed it to be the up and coming grape of the Finger Lakes region. Time will tell if I'm right, or merely under the spell of a few delicious bottles.

One of the classic grape blending matches is Cabernet Franc and Lemberger. Lemberger, also known as Blaufrankish, is a gentle and savory grape that can take the edge off the sometimes peppery Cab Franc.

In this case, the Lemberger actually has the lion's share (55%) of the blend, with the Cab Franc at 45%. I think I might have reversed the ratio.

The punch of the Cab Franc was a bit muted by the Lemberger. At first the body was a bit mild simple. Of course, I was being blasted in the face by waves of acrid smoke from the fire at the time.

I revisited the wine after about 30 minutes and the white pepper of the Cab Franc and the raspberry notes of the Lemberger were playfully present. One benefit of the blending is that there is no green pepper flavor. To me, that indicates a Cab Franc that isn't quite ready for prime time. While some green pepper is OK, more than a smidge can be a turn-off.

This is a nice value at $18. If you aren't familiar with Lemberger or the Finger Lakes, this is a good intro.

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Dine Like A President Dinner May 2 Features Rodney Strong Wines

The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center in Fremont is hosting a wine event in May that offers a rare opportunity: the chance to have a former White House chef cook for you.
John Moeller, who was the chef to Presidents George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush, will prepare special meals and tell stories of his White House years at the events.



At 6:30 PM on May 2, a five-course Dine Like a President dinner will be offered featuring wine pairings from Rodney Strong Vineyards. The cost is $125 per person, with only 100 seats available; advance reservations are mandatory. After the meal, Mr. Moeller will speak on what it was like to cook for presidents and other dignitaries.
The event will be at the Catawba Island Club, 4235 Beach Club Rd., Port Clinton. For reservations, please contact Hayes Presidential Center development director Kathy Boukissen at (419) 332-2081, ext. 226.
Photo Credit: star5112 via Compfight cc

Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Toledo Area Wine Events & Tastings: April 22-25, 2015


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Wednesday, April 22
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. Kim C's Battle of the Big Red Blends:  1. "Complicated" 2012 Red Blend, 2. Dark Horse "Big Red Blend," 3. Luminary 2012 Red Blend, 4. Duckhorn "Paraduxx" 2011 Red Blend. $10 flight or nominal fee per sample.

Veritas Cork and Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo – (419) 214- 9463. 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Wednesday Wine Tasting. Come out with friends, have fun, taste good juice! $15 per person.

Thursday, April 23
Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Wordly Wines: 1. 2014 Garnacha de Fuego Rose – Munebrega – Spain,  2. 2012 Chateau St Jean Belle Terre Chardonnay – Alexander Valley, California, 3. 2010 Villadoria Bricco Magno – Nebbiolo – Italy, 4. 2012 Jean Paul Tollot LA 50/50 – Syrah and Carignan – France. $4.50 flight or nominal fee per sample.

Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Smooth Wines: 1. Butter, 2. Ned Pinot Grigio, 3. Josh Legacy Red, 4. Avalon Napa Cabernet, 5. Andronicus Red, 6. Machete, 7. Electra Red Moscato. Nominal fee per sample,

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Weekly wine tasting: Nominal fee per sample.
Veritas Cork and Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo – (419) 214- 9463. Open at 12:00 noon for Mud Hens Opening Day Celebration.
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, April 23
Toledo Museum of Art, 6:30 – 8:30 PM. Wine by the Glass Pavilion. Crickey! Surprisingly Good Australian Wines. Enjoy four wines and light snacks at the Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion. $20 for members, $30 for nonmembers. Purchase during Museum hours by phone at 419-255-8000 ext. 7448.

Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. Wine tasting – 4:00 – 7:00 PM.

Saturday, April 25
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Wine tasting.

AREA WINE BARS
  • Veritas Cork and Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo – (419) 214- 9463.
  • Zinful Wine Bar, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.
Technorati Tags:  
[Information on tastings can be sent toTWAV@ATT.NET.]

Up & Coming: 
Tuesdays – Weekly wine tasting at Forrester's on the River, 26 Main St. Toledo – (419) 691-2626. 5:00 – 7:00 PM. Five to six unique tastings of wine, that are not found on the menu, along with an assortment of tapas style appetizers to complement the wines.  Tastings are between $10-$15 per person and are held in their wine bar (Paige's Wine Bar).

May 15 – Wood County Humane Society Wine and Dine. 7:00 to 10:00 PM at Graystone Banquet Hall 29101 Hufford Rd., Perrysburg. Advance tickets $50 per person, $90 per couple or $175 for four. Tickets available online.

Photo Credit: Stilgherrian via Compfight cc

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Farm To Table Wine Dinner At Pairings On May 2 To Feature Chef Jeff Fisher And Top Winemakers

The second in the series of Farm to Table Dinners at Pairings, Ohio's Wine and Culinary Experience in Geneva, Ohio is scheduled for May 2. Star Chef Jeff Fisher, a rising star on the Cleveland culinary scene, will prepare a five –course meal featuring award-winning wines and locally-sourced food.
Winemakers Bill & Michelle Bakan from Maize Valley in Hartville
and Mike and Carol Williams from The Winery at Versailles in Darke County will collaborate with Chef Fisher on a memorable dining experience.  The meal will include locally sourced foods from:
  • Shady Hill Farms,Ltd, Newberry  [meet farmer Ben Calkins himself!] - lamb
  • Milgate Farm, Ashtabula County - pork
  • Brunty Farms, Cuyahoga Valley Park Heritage Farm - eggs
  • Lake Erie Creamery, Cleveland - goat cheese 

THE MENU:
To welcome you: 
Sparkling Peach Mist from the Winery at Versailles
First Course:
Bacon and eggs, homemade smoked slab bacon, pickled red onion and mixed greens with a chardonnay Parmesan dressing served with a blend of Frontenac and Cabernet Sauvignon from Maize Valley
Then
Spring pea soup with mint and cream fresh served with Maize Valley's Reserve Blanc
And
Hand rolled gnocchi, galette with lamb boulognese, house made manacatta, sheeps's milk ricotta served with Maize Valley signature blend of Merlot, Cabernete Sauvignon and Petit Syrah:  Big Red Pecker
And
Crisp pork belly, wild picked ramps boudins, butternut puree, caramelized ramp jus

The Finale
Blackberry lemon curd tarts with goat cheese ice cream with Schwaratzbereen from The Winery at Versailles.  

Pairings, Ohio's Wine and Culinary Experience is located at 50 Park Street. Geneva. Cost is $75 per person or $145 a couple. Special Chef's table seating -- only 4 available:  $100 per person or $195 per couple. For reservations go to OhioWines.org
Photo Credit: Kelowna09 via Compfight cc















Monday, April 20, 2015

Jamieson Ranch 2013 Silver Spur Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley


Recently I purchased a mystery half-case from an online retailer (Invino). It promised wines from Napa Valley and Sonoma and some great bargains.
Half of the enjoyment of such a purchase like this is opening the box to see what you got. It’s an adult version of Christmas morning. I was pleased to discover this bottle of Jamieson Ranch 2013 Sauvignon Blanc “under the tree.”
The grapes come from a small three-acre Ashe Vineyard bloc in Oakville. The wine is biodynamic certified.
The true Sauvignon Blanc expert in the household is my wife, the Green Dragon. Her favorite is the zesty New Zealand style, but has learned to appreciate some different approaches. I particularly like Sauvignon Blanc from Dry Creek Valley in Sonoma, so I was interested to try some Napa Valley SB.
On the nose, the Silver Spur packs a powerful punch and offers the signature cut grass aroma of Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity is also abundant, keeping the Silver Spur crisp and elegant – like its Rolls Royce namesake.
The flavor profile is rather unique. Green Dragon proclaimed the primary taste as honeysuckle and after a sip I agreed. (After several sips I was agreeing with anything she said!) The Silver Spur has citrus and pineapple with a dollop of tartness.
It’s a unique Sauvignon Blanc that would be a great pairing with a seafood dish. I’d suggest this as a food pairing wine or with some nice appetizers (like shrimp or crab) rather than standing along.
It retails for about $35 and is fairly priced at that figure. I was pleased to “steal” this bottle for about $20. Wine lovers should not live on Napa Valley Cabernet alone!
Rating: 3 of 5  Value: 2.5 of 5

Friday, April 17, 2015

Wine N Bloom Event Starts May 1 On Northeast Ohio’s Vines and Wines Trail

Visit 16 wineries, sip a couple of their best wines, sample light appetizers, collect 16 different spring flowers for your garden during the popular Wine N Bloom event on the Vines and Wines Trail. The cost for this self-driving tour is $50 per couple or $40 for a single traveler. You also receive a souvenir wineglass. 
Reservations are required. The the event will sell out, so don’t delay. Visit www.OhioWines.org or call 800-227-6972 for more information. 
Here is a list of participating wineries:
* Benny Vino Urban Winery, Perry
* Buccia Vineyards, Conneaut
* Deer's Leap Winery, Geneva
* Emerine Estates, Jefferson
* Ferrante Winery & Ristorante, Geneva
* Goddess Wine House, Ashtabula
* Grand River Cellars Winery & Restaurant, Geneva
* Harpersfield Vineyards, Geneva
* Hundley Cellars, Geneva
* Laleure Vineyards, Parkman
* Laurello Vineyards, Geneva
* Old Firehouse Winery, Geneva-on-the-Lake
* Old Mill Winery, Geneva
* The Lakehouse Inn & Winery, Geneva-on-the-Lake
* The Winery at Spring Hill, Geneva
* Virant Family Winery, Geneva
Host lodges this year are the Lodge at Geneva and Fitzgerald's Irish Bed and Breakfast.  Details about their offers are listed on the Ohio Wines web site noted above.
Photo Credit: timo_w2s via Compfight cc



Thursday, April 16, 2015

South Africa Offers New World Wine With Rich History

South Africa is known as a maker of New World wines. That label is deceiving. As my wife and I prepare for a trip to that country’s winelands, I’ve been researching the country’s rich oenological history and have found a tradition as rich as the abundant gold deposits in Johannesburg.
Almost twice as large as Texas, it has 1,800 miles of coastline. It is the only wine region in the world sandwiched between two oceans: the Atlantic and the Indian. Jan Van Riebeeck of the Dutch East India Company planted the first vines in the Cape of Good Hope in 1655.
There were many setbacks in the beginning, chiefly because of the farmers' ignorance of viticulture. Things improved when Van Riebeeck was succeeded in 1679 by Simon van der Stel who planted a vineyard on his farm Constantia and made good wine from the outset. Later, Constantia wines became world-famous.
The Dutch had almost no wine tradition and it was only after the French Huguenots settled at the Cape between 1680 and 1690 that the wine industry began to flourish. Since that time, South African wine has had its peaks and valleys, ranging from the decimation of vineyards by the disease phylloxera, the Anglo-Boer War, overproduction, international trade sanctions in the 1980s as a protest against apartheid,
In 1990 apartheid was abolished and South Africa’s first democratic elections were held in 1994. Nelson Mandela’s support helped the reemergence of South African wine and he toasted his 1993 Nobel Peace prize with South African wine from the Cape region.
The wine industry in South Africa is undergoing an exciting period of change. Once known for a proliferation of low quality white wine, the industry is realigning itself to compete globally. Only recently a 10-year trend of planting more reds has shifted back to whites.
Chenin Blanc is the most widely planted variety. Other top grapes include Cabernet Sauvignon, Colombard, Shiraz, Pinotage, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Chardonnay. Pinotage, a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault, is considered the signature grape of the country. Also produced are Methode Cap Classique (MCC) wines, outstanding sparkling wines made in the traditional method of Champagne.
The southern areas are the heart of the South African wine industry. We will be visiting Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, which is a ward in the Paarl wine region. There will be more to come as we prepare for our epic journey.

Wednesday, April 15, 2015

Toledo Area Wine Events & Tastings: April 15-18, 2015

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Wednesday, April 15
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. Kim G's Tour of Italy with Wine: 1. Tenuta Delle Terre Nere 2012 Etna Bianco (Sicily), 2. Rocca Delle Macie 2010 Chianti Classico Riserva (sub-region of Chianti in central Tuscany), 3. If You See Kay 2012 Red Blend (Lazio region, just south of Tuscany), 4. Franco Serra 2011 Barbaresco (Piedmont area in northwest Italy). Nominal fee per sample or $10 per flight.
Manhattan’s Restaurant, 1516 Adams St., Toledo – (419) 243-6675. Wine dinner. 6:30 PM. Call for reservations and info.

Veritas Cork and Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo – (419) 214- 9463. 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Wednesday Wine Tasting. Come out with friends, have fun, taste good juice! $15 per person.

Thursday, April 16
Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Some Wonderful New Spring Favorites: 1. 2013 Surani – Arthemis – Fiano – Puglia, Italy, 2. 2014 Mulderbosch – Rosé of Cabernet Sauvignon – South Africa, 3. 2010 Cuvée des Ardoises – Chateau des Eries – Languedoc, France, 4. 2008 Saddleback Cellars – Cabernet Sauvignon – Napa Valley. Nominal fee per sample or $7 per flight.

Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Wines of the Mediterranean from Portugal to Greece: 1. Alpha Estate Malagouzia, 2. Santorini Assyrtiko, 3. Esporao Pe Tinto, 4. Assobio, 5. Chateau Kefraya, 6. SKouras Saint George, 7. Kopke 10 Year Old Tawny. Nominal fee per sample.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Weekly wine tasting: Vintner Select Portfolio with special guest Tricia Rasar: 1. Gruet Sparkling Brut, 2. Domaine Lafond Lirac Blanc, 3. Hexamer Weissherbst Spatburgunder, 4. Francois Villard Syrah, 5. Terracae Cahors Malbec. Nominal fee per sample.
Veritas Cork and Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo – (419) 214- 9463. Open at 12:00 noon for Mud Hens Opening Day Celebration.
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, April 17
Toledo Museum of Art, 6:30 – 8:30 PM. Wine by the Glass Pavilion. Bellissimo: Italian Wines. Enjoy four wines and light snacks at the Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion. $20 for members, $30 for nonmembers. Purchase during Museum hours by phone at 419-255-8000 ext. 7448.
Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. Wine tasting – Interesting Wines. 4:00 – 7:00 PM.
Saturday, April 18
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Exploring the Soul of American Pinot Noir. If no grape expresses the personality of a place like Pinot Noir, then maybe American Pinot Noir is schizophrenic. We’ll taste them all: from the delicate farm-to-table styles of Oregon, through the mixed messages of Sonoma Coast and Russian River Valley. Then we’ll finish with the big flavors and bigger personalities of Santa Barbara.
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Wine, Cheese & Chocolate benefit. 7:00 to 10:00 PM at Belmont Country Club, 29601 Bates Road, Perrysburg. Tickets $40 in advance or $45 at the door. Tables of eight are available at $300. For tickets and more information, contact VictoryforViolet@bex.net or call (419) 874-9806.
AREA WINE BARS
  • Veritas Cork and Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo – (419) 214- 9463.
  • Zinful Wine Bar, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.



Technorati Tags:
[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]

Up & Coming:
Tuesdays – Weekly wine tasting at Forrester's on the River, 26 Main St. Toledo – (419) 691-2626. 5:00 – 7:00 PM. Five to six unique tastings of wine, that are not found on the menu, along with an assortment of tapas style appetizers to complement the wines.  Tastings are between $10-$15 per person and are held in their wine bar (Paige's Wine Bar).
May 15Wood County Humane Society Wine and Dine. 7:00 to 10:00 PM at Graystone Banquet Hall 29101 Hufford Rd., Perrysburg. Advance tickets $50 per person, $90 per couple or $175 for four. Tickets available online.






Tuesday, April 14, 2015

Bodegas Avanthia 2008 Avanthia, Valdeorras


This Spanish wine came to me via a closeout from Andersons last year. The primary grape is Mencia, which I have never tried, and so I thought I’d take a flyer.
Valdeorras is a mountainous area in the Galica in northwest Spain. The area is gaining a following for their Mencia reds and Godello whites.
Avanthia makes an impression even before you taste a glass. The bottle is heavy duty, similar to what might hold an expensive Napa Cabernet. Interestingly enough, the cork is also one of the longest I’ve extracted from a bottle.
The aroma is a mix of earth and herbs. On the palate this is medium in body and well balanced.
Layers of smoke, earth and red fruit notes interact. There is good acidity and the tannins have been integrated nicely.
I picked this up for $26, well under the going price of $46. This is an interesting wine that should accompany lighter red meat entrees very well. It should also pair nicely with a tapas-style meal.
Rating: 3.5 of 5  Value: 3 of 5

Monday, April 13, 2015

Rosenblum Cellars Stark Raving Cab, NV


A while ago I made a vow to myself: to purchase less wine, but make sure to buy more expensive, better bottles. The Stark Raving Cab made me forget all about that.
We were up in Michigan and coming back down the north part of Toledo. I saw a sign at a fruit market proclaiming “wine sale.” It also said, “Wine $2.99.”
I made a hard right and pulled into the store parking lot. This was so uninteresting to Green Dragon, that she opted to stay in the car.
The wines weren’t as horrible as I imagined. While they were certainly not high end wines, there were some interesting ones for less than $10. I had to find out what they were selling for $2.99.
Turns out it was Stark Raving Cab. I usually don’t buy wine with gimmicky labels. But I noticed this wine is made by Rosenblum Cellars. Rosenblum makes some outstanding wine – especially Zinfandel. Many of their Zins top out at more than $40. So I grabbed the bottle, unfolded three dollar bills and was on my way.
The other night I thought I would test Green Dragon, so I poured her a glass without her knowing the wine. Shortly afterward, a tornado warning was issued. Our dog Amber got a bit anxious, so I grabbed some glasses and the bottle and we headed to the cellar (where we have plenty of wine to ride out any emergency).
Stark Raving Cab usually sells for about $12.99, so it’s not as bad as what you might think based on my price. This is an attempt to create a “lifestyle” wine with an irreverent attitude and “crazy good” flavors. Hmmm.
It’s actually an acceptable sipper with rich fruit flavors, a bit of funky earth notes and a short finish. The body is light to medium. The grapes are from France, although the exact location is a mystery. I’m guessing Languedoc, since they it is one of the largest grape growing regions in the country.
I’ve paid more for worse wines.
Review: 2 of 5  Value: 2.5 of 5

Friday, April 10, 2015

Mythmaker 2011, California Red Wine

This wine is produced by online retailer Lot 18. I got it in an indirect way. Tasting team member Dr. J had found himself in an “overpurchased” situation. This occurs when you have bought so much wine within a short period of time that it causes your spouse to complain, often repeatedly.
Anxious to help him out, I purchased some of his surplus goods, including this bottle of Mythmaker. Mythmaker is one of the house brands of Lot 18. I assume that they find wineries with surplus grapes or wine, buy them and market them under one of their private labels.
There is an opportunity to score wine from well known wineries on the cheap under this scenario. The downside is, there is precious little information about the wine. The grapes and the blend for the 2011 Mythmaker are undisclosed.
The good news is this is a really interesting wine. It appears to be a blend of Cabernet, Merlot and perhaps Cab Franc and a dash of Zinfandel. I was surprised that this wine had some Old World funkiness. It is light bodied, but has a briny, herbal quality that calls out for olives or flame-roasted meat. I imagine it would go quite well with wild boar, although I’ve never had any.
Mythmaker 2011 has more character than expected in a mystery bottle of California red. For $15, it is priced about right.
Rating: 2.5 of 5  Value: 2.5 of 5

Thursday, April 9, 2015

Southeast Michigan Pioneer Wine Trail Sets Michigan Wine Celebration April 11-12

Join the Michigan Wine Celebration with the wineries of the SE Michigan Pioneer Wine Trail during this special event April 11 and 12. Each winery along the trail will feature an appetizer or dessert prepared by a local chef and paired with their featured wine. The price also includes one tasting glass.
Tickets for this self-driven tour with eight delicious food and wine pairings are $30 per person. Each ticket purchase includes tasting up to six additional wine samples at each winery. Designated drivers eat for free. Discounts for groups of 25 or more are available by calling (517)-423-9000.
There are no physical tickets mailed for this event. Once purchased, your name is added to a registration list that will be at each winery. Simply bring your ID and enjoy
The Pioneer Wine Trail is supporting Michigan viticulture and oenology research by donating $1 of each ticket sold for this event to the Michigan Wine Foundation, a foundation that supports wine and grape growing research throughout Michigan. Through continued research and development of Michigan's grape and wine industry, award winning wines from Michigan grown grapes are becoming world renowned for their quality and remarkable taste.
If you would like to donate to support Michigan viticulture and oenology research please click here.

Planned food and wine pairings:

Burgdorf’s Winery: Chicken thighs marinated in a red curry sauce served over pecan wild rice by Chef Tom, Golden Rose with 2013 Naked Chardonnay or 2012 Cayuga.
Chateau Aeronautique Winery: Lobster bisque, Catering by Meredith with 2013 Naked Chardonnay or 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon.
Cherry Creek - Old Schoolhouse Winery: Braised chicken wings with Riesling.
Flying Otter Winery: Muffaletta stuffed baguette with herb aioli with Chancellor.
J. Trees Cellars: Minted Pea & Prosciutto Crostini with House Sangria.
Lone Oak Vineyard Estate: Thai Chicken Satay with Vintner's Suite Riesling.
Pentamere Winery: Shish Tawook (shish kebab with chicken) and hummus with Celebration White.
Sandhill Crane Vineyards: Strawberry & pecan salad with spinach & feta by Sandhill café with Blushing Crane.
Ticket holders are welcome to visit each location over the two-day event, or they may choose to limit their visits (as time permits). The Wine Trail encourages ticket holders to bring a designated driver. Hours of the event are Saturday, April 11, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Sunday, April 12, from noon to 6:00 PM. There are a limited number of tickets available, ticket sales will end on Wednesday, April 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.
Photo by Rachel Kramer













Wednesday, April 8, 2015

Toledo Area Wine Events & Tastings: April 8-11, 2015

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Wednesday, April 8
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. Four Wonderful New Closeouts: 1. Casa Setaro 2011 Falanghina, 2. Barbi 2011 Lago di Corbara Red, 3. Saddleback 2008 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, 4. Bonny Doon 2013 "The Heart Has Its Rieslings." Nominal fee per sample or $5 per flight.

Veritas Cork and Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo – (419) 214- 9463. 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Wednesday Wine Tasting. Come out with friends, have fun, taste good juice! $15 per person.

Thursday, April 9
Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Some Beautiful New Wines: 1.
2013 Cuvée des 3 Messes Basses – White Rhone Blend – Ventoux, France, 2. 2014 Charles & Charles – Rosé – Columbia Valley, Washington, 3. 2012 Cuvée des 3 Messes Basses – Red Rhone Blend – Ventoux, France, 4. 2012 Argiano – Rosso Toscano – Red Tuscan Blend – Tuscany, Italy. Nominal fee per sample or $5 per flight.

Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Valpolicella and Amarone. Amarone wine has a tremendous concentration. This is achieved by drying the grapes, traditionally done in the sun on straw mats, now done with air driers, to concentrate the tannins, sugars and accentuate the skins by removing moisture from the grapes. These are formidable wines. Here is a rare tasting to sample six great Amarone producers. 1. Mazzi Valpolicella Classico Superiore, 2. Bussola Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso, 3. Villa Erbice, 4. Mazzi, 5. Santi, 6. Masi Costasera, 7. Nicolas, 8. Nicolis Ambrosan. Nominal fee per sample.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Weekly wine tasting. 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, April 10
Toledo Museum of Art, 6:30 – 8:30 PM. Wine by the Glass Pavilion. Magnifique: French Wines. Enjoy four wines and light snacks at the Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion. $20 for members, $30 for nonmembers. Purchase during Museum hours by phone at 419-255-8000 ext. 7448.
Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. Wine tasting. 4:00 – 7:00 PM.
Saturday, April 11
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. 4th Annual Wine Tour to France and Italy. Do you want to travel to France and Italy with us? Our Wine Guy Austin Beeman takes a small group to Europe every year and you could come with him. We get exclusive access to best wineries in the world, eat local gourmet meals, and come away with a deeper understanding of these amazing places. We call it a “World Tasting.”
Learn about the Trip, ask questions, and come ready to sign up. Nominal fee per sample.
AREA WINE BARS
  • Veritas Cork and Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo – (419) 214- 9463.
  • Zinful Wine Bar, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.



Technorati Tags:
[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]

Up & Coming:
Tuesdays – Weekly wine tasting at Forrester's on the River, 26 Main St. Toledo – (419) 691-2626. 5:00 – 7:00 PM. Five to six unique tastings of wine, that are not found on the menu, along with an assortment of tapas style appetizers to complement the wines.  Tastings are between $10-$15 per person and are held in their wine bar (Paige's Wine Bar).
April 18 - Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Wine, Cheese & Chocolate benefit. 7:00 to 10:00 PM at Belmont Country Club, 29601 Bates Road, Perrysburg. Tickets $40 in advance or $45 at the door. Tables of eight are available at $300. For tickets and more information, contact VictoryforViolet@bex.net or call (419) 874-9806.
May 15Wood County Humane Society Wine and Dine. 7:00 to 10:00 PM at Graystone Banquet Hall 29101 Hufford Rd., Perrysburg. Advance tickets $50 per person, $90 per couple or $175 for four. Tickets available online.




Tuesday, April 7, 2015

Sapphire Hill 2009 Cinque Gemma, North Coast


Sapphire Hill is located in the heart of Northern Sonoma and specializes in hand-crafted, limited production wines. On Easter, enjoying a relaxing afternoon of appetizers and drinks with friends, we opened Sapphire Hill’s Cinque Gemma.
Cinque Gemma, or “five gems,” is an Italian blend. It is primarily Dolcetto and Sangiovese with Barbera, Primativo and Petite Sirah. With this collection of cool grapes, how could the wine disappoint?
Disappoint it didn’t. This is a signature blend that is medium in body. Green Dragon had requested something that wasn’t too heavy as she was just getting over a cold.
Ham, asparagus, quiche, deviled eggs… whatever we were noshing on, the Sapphire Hill was an agreeable partner. Ideally, though, we’d suggest this be paired with some pasta.
This has the weight of a Pinot Noir and has some beautiful riffs of cherry, but is also has the rich, rustic flavor of Sangiovese. There are hints of caramel and plum. It is not weighted down with heavy tannins and maintains a light, elegant feel.
I scored this bottle from Underground Cellars and got a deal at about $20 for this bottle. With Underground Cellars you pay for the lowest priced bottle in their package and get upgraded to higher priced wine when you purchase multiple bottles. I bought a total of four Sapphire Hill bottles and this is the third I’ve had – each has been delicious. I’m now a fan of this winery.
The 2012 Cinque Gemma vintage is now available from the winery at $40 and I see that the blend is somewhat different, which is to be expected. This is a fun blend that is a great value and is versatile for entertaining. Cinque Gemma gets Cinque thumbs up!
Rating: 4 of 5  Value 5 of 5

Monday, April 6, 2015

Growing State Industry Celebrates April As Michigan Wine Month

April has been declared “Michigan Wine Month” to honor the state’s wide selection of quality wines and the wine industry’s significant contribution to the economy, Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder said.
The number of wineries in the state continues to grow, with 117 producers of Michigan wine currently recognized by the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council, a program within the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development that is charged with supporting industry growth.
The cold winters of 2014 and 2015 challenged the industry with reduced wine grape yields, creating a limited supply of grapes for some consumers’ favorite varietals. However, Michigan vintners produce wine from nearly 50 different wine grapes, including many cold-hardy varieties, so consumers will still find a wide selection of wines available in winery tasting rooms. In addition, many wineries have an abundant supply on hand from the high-yielding 2012 and 2013 vintages.
“We appreciate the support of our loyal customers,” said Marie-Chantal Dalese, CEO of Chateau Chantal, on Old Mission Peninsula. “The industry will work through this rough patch handed to us by Mother Nature and will come out of it with new knowledge and experience regarding our vineyard practices and sites that will help us perform even better in the future. Our wines are gaining national attention for quality, and we will continue earning a solid reputation for excellence.”
That national attention is evidenced by 230 awards earned by 32 producers of Michigan wine in national competitions in 2014. Consumers are paying attention; sales of Michigan wine has doubled over the past 10 years, outpacing the growth in all wine sales in Michigan and increasing Michigan wineries’ market share to 6.5 percent.
Michigan wineries welcome more than 2 million visitors each year.
“April is an ideal time to venture out and sample wines in winery tasting rooms,” said Gordon Wenk, deputy director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and chair of the Council. “They’re not as busy as later in the season, and winery owners and staff have more time to spend with customers and help them learn about their wines in a more relaxed atmosphere.”
April also marks the start of wine festival season and numerous events that showcase Michigan wines. The following are just a sample; visit www.michiganwines.com/events for a complete list.
* Michigan Wine Celebration: April 11-12 – Southeast Michigan Pioneer Wine Trail (pioneerwinetrail.com)
* Michigan Wines Showcase: April 20 – The Rattlesnake Club, Detroit (michiganwines.com/showcase)
* Spring Sip & Savor: May 2-3 – Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail  (lpwines.com)
* Blossom Day:  May 16 –  Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula  (wineriesofoldmission.com)
* Lake Michigan Shore Wine Festival: June 20 – Lake Michigan Shore Wine Country (miwinetrail.com)
Michigan Wine Month is kicked off by the release of the 2015 Michigan Wine Country magazine, an indispensable guide to the wines and wineries of Michigan, featuring maps and touring information. Pick up a free copy at any Michigan winery or Travel Michigan Welcome Center. To request a copy, visit www.michiganwines.com or contact the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council at 517-284-5736.
Photo by Sean Naber












Friday, April 3, 2015

Taste of Washington Event Offers Heaping Helping of Superb Food And Wine


Taste of Washington is the largest single region wine event in the country. Spanning three days, including 224 wineries, beaucoup gala events and seminars, and a galaxy of celebrity chefs, its breadth is dizzying. In fact, it required me to sit down and develop a game plan to help ensure I was able to squeeze in all that I wanted.
I was in Seattle, site of the Taste Washington bash, as a guest of Visit Washington, the Emerald City’s convention and visitors bureau. We enjoyed a superlative brunch at the historic Fairmont Olympic Hotel and at the end of the meal we shared insider tips and favorite wineries. We had VIP passes and as a result a “golden hour” to enjoy the attractions before the doors opened to the general public.
My colleague and I had attended the Red & White kickoff party and the New Vintage event at the Four Seasons the previous two nights, so we had checked a number of wines off our bucket list.
Our first stop is an example of what makes Washington State wine great. We began at Alexandria Nicole Cellars station. I’m a huge fan of their Jet Back Syrah, a dense, dark blockbuster of a wine. Not only did they share the 2013 vintage, but also were pouring the highly-rated 2012 vintage from a keg. It was a more focused and complex wine.
Sliding next door, we continued our sipping with the 2012 Amavi Cellars Syrah. This is eye-popping quality with grapes mostly from one of my favorite vineyards (Les Collines). It’s delightfully smoky with notes of black cherry and herb. How about yet another Syrah? Why not. We sampled the 2012 Estate Fred Syrah from àMaurice Cellars. This is a nice meaty wine from a new-to-me winery.
There were a lot of nice surprises at Taste Washington. A nice one was at Cooper Wine Company. At our brunch I was given the secret password, “lucky 13.” When I mentioned it at the booth, up from under the table came a luscious bottle of Carmenere from Red Mountain – one of the top picks of the day!
There certainly were some superb reds. Special mention goes to Ambassador Vineyard 2011 Plenipotentiary Cabernet Sauvignon, a complex red that matches its name.
An up and coming winery that I wanted to check out is Eight Bells. Eight Bells is an urban winery in North Seattle that sources grapes from Yakima Valley and Willamette Valley. Their 2011 Merlot was an enjoyable glass. While there I overhead a discussion between winemakers about Savage Grace Wines.
I made a beeline over the Savage Grace and met winemaker and owner Michael Savage. I had been locked into the reds (and why not, they are spectacular), but he suggested I try his whites. I started with a Gruner Veltliner, sampled the Sauvignon Blanc and then was knocked out by his 2013 Riesling. The wine is wild fermented and is off dry on the palate with a dry finish. Tangerines and wet stone flavors rule in this delightful wine. This was another star of the show for me.
This caused me to do a backflip (of sorts) and focus on refreshing whites. From Ascendente, I sampled their 2012 Pinot Gris and a standout Viognier from Cave B Estate. A smudged tasting note prevents me from telling you the winery that produced a very refreshing rosé.

This is a truly glorious wine event, enhanced by the culinary swagger of the Pacific Northwest. The festival featured an Oyster & Chowder & Washington White Wine Bar. Morsels such as morel and brie macaroons, slow roasted pork belly scrapple with Douglas fir syrup were interspersed with the wine. We really appreciated the Scharffen Berger chocolate and the KoKos Coconut Cheese at the Cheeseland booth. You can’t eat or drink them, but it was also nice to be able to sit in the latest Jaguar sportscars.
Here are some of my favorites not already mentioned in my narrative:
  • Brown 2012 Tribute blend
  • Reininger 2010 Helix Sangiovese
  • Kiona 2012 Estate Lemberger Blue Franc
  • Rotie 2012 Southern Blend
  • DeLille Cellars 2012 D2
  • Walla Walla Vintners 2013 Cabernet Franc
  • Doubleback 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla
  • Avennia 2012 Sestina 2012 Bordeaux style blend
  • Gilbert Cellars 2012 Left Bank Red Bordeaux blend
  • Dunham Cellars 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon XVII
  • Fidelitas 2010 Quintessence Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Syncline 2013 Cinsault, Horse Heaven Hills
  • Van Loben Sels Cellars 2012 Avansino Grand Reserve Red Blend
My only regret is that I could spend just one day at Taste Washington. There was so much left undone, such as checking out the Taste the Vineyards exhibit. Nine different vineyards offered comparisons of bottlings by different wineries using their grapes. What an awesome idea – that’s worth a whole day just by itself.
The excellence of this event shows what can be done when great minds in the arenas of wine, food, hospitality and event planning converge. My first visit to Taste Washington was memorable – but it won’t be my last!

Thursday, April 2, 2015

Magnum Force: Taste Washington Red & White Party A Very Large Format Success


It’s impossible not to love the idea: a classy party featuring 90+ rated Washington State wines all from large format bottles. No doubt it was worth winging my way thousands of miles west to Seattle for this kickoff event for the annual Taste of Washington affair.
I was in town visiting Seattle as a guest of Visit Seattle, the city’s convention and visitors bureau. Knowing my love of wine, they invited me to tour their facilities while epic wine events were taking place in town.
Back in 2010 I visited Seattle as part of a VIP bus tour that started in the Emerald City and wound its way through a number of wine hotspots before reaching Walla Walla for the Wine Bloggers Conference. One of my favorite memories of that trip was a five-course wine dinner at the Waterfront Seafood Grill.

As we drove up to Aqua by El Gaucho, the site of the Red & White Party, things looked awfully familiar – including the fountain where one of our wine bloggers took a dip after our wine dinner in 2010. As it turns out, Aqua and Waterfront Seafood Grill are one in the same, just rebranded.
The restaurant has a spectacular view of Elliott Bay and the view inside was superb as well. Guests neatly attired in red and white were queuing up for sips of wine as large format bottles stretched as far as the eye could see.
If you attend only one event at the four-day Taste of Washington event, I’d suggest this is the one. You have a chance to meet winemakers who are pouring exclusive wines from magnum (or larger) bottles. The list of wineries is off the charts, including: Col Solare, DeLille Cellars, Dunham Cellars, EFESTE, FIGGINS, Januik, Leonetti, Long Shadows Vintners, Northstar, Sparkman and Woodward Canyon. The wine was paired with an eclectic mix of appetizers.
While I didn’t sample all 29 wineries, I found each wine to be a standout. Indeed, to be part of the program, the wine had to attain at least a 90 point rating. Here are some of my favorites:
  • Leonetti 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley
  • Chateau St. Michelle 2011 Artist Series Meritage
  • Januik 2012 Weinbau Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Figgins 2011 Estate Red Wine
  • Long Shadows 2011 Sequel Syrah
  • Northstar 2007 Merlot, Walla Walla Valley
  • Sleight of Hand 2012 Illusionist Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley
Washington State is the second largest premium wine producer in the US with more than 850 wineries. The growth has been explosive. In 1981 there were only 19 wineries.
There are more than 40 varieties produced, but most prevalent are Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Merlot and Chardonnay. The wine explodes with fruit flavors and in the hands of the region’s experienced winemakers, they are second to none in terms of quality and refinement.
Whether your hobnobbing at a ritzy gala, or uncorking a bottle at the kitchen table, Washington wine offers a wide array of superb wines.

Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Toledo Area Wine Events & Tastings: April 1- 4, 2015

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Wednesday, April 1
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. Wines for April 1: "Il Bastardo" Sangiovese, 2. Michael David "Freakshow" Cabernet Sauvignon, 3. Stratton-Lummis "The Riddler" Red, 4. Misfit "Cycle Buff Beauty" Shiraz/Malbec. Nominal fee per sample or $7 per flight.

Veritas Cork and Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo – (419) 214- 9463. 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Wednesday Wine Tasting. Come out with friends, have fun, taste good juice! $15 per person.

Thursday, April 2
Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. No Fooling Around*, here are some beautiful old and new wines! (*because we’re a day late!) 1. 2012 Avancia – Cuvee De O – Godello – Spain, 2. 2012 Chateau Roubine – Cru Classé Rosé –  France, 3. 2011 Kaiken – Ultra Malbec – Argentina, 4. NEW 2012 Revelry – Cabernet Sauvignon – Washington. Nominal fee per sample or $7 per flight.

Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. New Spanish Wines: 1.
Raventos I Blanc Cava, 2. El Chaparral, 3. Zerran, 4. Blue Gray, 5. Eternum Viti, 6. Genium, 7. Alonso del Yerro. Nominal fee per sample.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Weekly wine tasting. 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, April 3
Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. Wine tasting. 4:00 – 7:00 PM. Wines to Pair with Easter Dinner: 1. 2012 Trimbach Gerwurztraminer, Alsace, 2. 2012 Domaine de Terrebrune Rose, Bandol, 3. 2009 Manoir du Carra Fleurie, France, 4. 2011 Pauli Riviera Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, 2011 Henri Bourgeois Petit Bourgeois Cabernet Franc, Loire. Nominal fee per sample or $10 flight.
Saturday, April 4
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Special Guest: Shane Gidbumb of Medlock Ames. Join us for an afternoon with Shane Gidcumb of Medlock Ames Winery in Sonoma, California. Medlock Ames is one of the most exciting organic/biodynamic wineries in California. We’ll be tasting whites, rose, and various red wines from the Estate. Nominal fee per sample.
AREA WINE BARS
  • Veritas Cork and Craft, 505 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo – (419) 214- 9463.
  • Zinful Wine Bar, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.



Technorati Tags:
[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]

Up & Coming:
Tuesdays – Weekly wine tasting at Forrester's on the River, 26 Main St. Toledo – (419) 691-2626. 5:00 – 7:00 PM. Five to six unique tastings of wine, that are not found on the menu, along with an assortment of tapas style appetizers to complement the wines.  Tastings are between $10-$15 per person and are held in their wine bar (Paige's Wine Bar).
April 7 - TREO Restaurant, 5703 Main St., Sylvania, (419) 882-2266. Spring Fling Wine Dinner. Join us for an elegant evening with wine pairings and a special menu celebrating the fresh & flavorful tastes of spring. $75 includes tax & gratuity. Call for reservations or email events@treosylvania.com.
April 18 - Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Wine, Cheese & Chocolate benefit. 7:00 to 10:00 PM at Belmont Country Club, 29601 Bates Road, Perrysburg. Tickets $40 in advance or $45 at the door. Tables of eight are available at $300. For tickets and more information, contact VictoryforViolet@bex.net or call (419) 874-9806.