tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71288924029503209662024-03-11T12:12:39.510-04:00Vino-SphereOur focus is wine, travel and food. Yours should be too! Join the celebration. Formerly Toledo Wines and Vines.Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.comBlogger2469125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-83592714404956849122024-02-21T09:25:00.002-05:002024-02-21T09:25:26.320-05:00A Tale Of Two Spanish Garnacha Wines<p><font size="5"><em>You may know Grenache, or Garnacha as it is known in Spain, as a luscious red wine. But what about the lesser-known white Garnacha? We open two bottles to explore.</em></font></p> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV97fUTvDByOswBh8OmwxcKubog5OepknoqPP8kY08xN2LszbQBdwbaa5Bn2QiJaarul9VsJFrXAPIdoBvzCetTqVYgR6DS30IiVOOO12GzalllVcJ_hEVBzWDTOuhqJreKKfn1NCslBCUkW068aM0TQg41DJxVim2kU-I7evtTywSBFWnrZgTVW2XklY/s2000/Spanish%20Garnacha.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2000" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV97fUTvDByOswBh8OmwxcKubog5OepknoqPP8kY08xN2LszbQBdwbaa5Bn2QiJaarul9VsJFrXAPIdoBvzCetTqVYgR6DS30IiVOOO12GzalllVcJ_hEVBzWDTOuhqJreKKfn1NCslBCUkW068aM0TQg41DJxVim2kU-I7evtTywSBFWnrZgTVW2XklY/w475-h380/Spanish%20Garnacha.png" width="475" /></a></div><br />If you are a wine lover, chances are you’ve tasted Grenache, a red grape that’s grown around the world, most notably in France’s Rhône Valley, California, Australia, Italy (where it is called Cannonau), and Spain, where it is called Garnacha (or Garnatxa in Catalonia). It’s also widely used in rosé.<p></p> <p>Red Grenache is used in the famed Châteauneuf-du-Pape blend in France, regional blends (with Cariñena), and in the GSM (Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah) blends popular in Australia and around the world. The red grape is known for its red berry, white pepper, and spice flavors. The final product can depend on the vessel in which it is aged (steel, oak, or cement).</p> <p>Grenache Blanc (or Garnacha Blanca) is a more elusive creature. The grape originated in Northern Spain but is strongly associated with France’s Rhône and Languedoc-Roussillon regions. In Spain, the grape is found in Priorat, Aragon, and Terra Alta. You’ll also find the grape in Italy and in California’s Paso Robles AVA.</p> <p>I consider Grenache Blanc a gem. It is a full-bodied white with low acidity and higher ABV than your average white wine. Whenever I see a bottle, I usually buy it. In this case, it provided a perfect opportunity to compare red and white Garnacha from Spain.</p> <h3 align="center">Chapillon 2018 Cuvée Paul, DO Calatayud</h3> <p>Cuvée Paul is a winning wine made with 100% Garnacha grown on 70-year-old gnarled vines in the Calatayud region. Calatayud is in the northeast central part of Spain in the Zaragoza province. It is in the Ebro River valley and is crisscrossed by many of the Ebro's tributaries. The soil is stony and loose.</p> <p>Christophe Chapillon grew up in a winemaking family based in the Loire Valley, and he recognized the potential in Calatayud’s rocky soils years ago. He founded Chapillon Wines in 2006 in partnership with César Langa Gonzalez, whose vineyards have been in their family since 1867.</p> <p>The 2018 Cuvée Paul is a plump wine rich with blackberries and candied cherries enhanced by spice and fresh mint flavors. It gets oak aging (12 months in American oak), so there is more body than some Rhône-style Grenache finished in concrete. This wine is a blast and should be paired with hearty red meat dishes, stews, or poultry. ABV is 14.5% and it is priced at about $15.</p><p>This bottle is perfect for those who love bold reds, especially those from France's Rhône Valley.</p> <h3 align="center">Herència Altés 2022 Garnatxa Blanca, DO Terra Alta</h3> <p align="left">Herència Altés is a family-owned winery in Terra Alta, a DO located in the province of Tarragona in Catalonia. They speak Catalan, which is a distinct language from Spanish -- hence the different spelling of Garnatxa. As the name Terra Alta indicates, the region is in the mountains. Years ago I visited Tarragona. My hotel was a short distance from a Roman amphitheater and, indeed, the first grapes were planted by Romans centuries ago.</p> <p align="left">Experiences growing up among vines and a passion for the world of wine and this landscape encouraged Núria Altés and Rafael De Haan to start working in the family vineyards in 2010 and develop the project we now know as Herència Altés. Their focus is the Garnatxa varieties and Garnatxa Blanca is considered their flagship wine.</p> <p align="left">The south-easterly Garbí wind brings freshness from the nearby Mediterranean to the vineyards, which feature chalky soil and low rainfall. Garnatxa Blanca is drought-resistant and is the star variety in the region.</p> <p align="left">The grapes for the Altés Garnatxa Blanca are harvested by hand. They undergo a wild fermentation and only the free-run juice is used. Stainless steel tanks are used and the fermented wine stands on the lees for three months and gets regular stirring (batonnage) to add creaminess and structure to the wine. This is a fresh wine with notes of salinity and citrus mingling with peach and apricot flavors. It’s a bright refreshing wine perfect for tapas including squid. ABV is 13% and the cost is about $17.</p> <p align="left">We love Grenache/Garnatxa in its many iterations. From red Grenache aged in concrete with subtle flavors to white Garnacha that recalls the Mediterranean breeze, there is a bottle for every taste.</p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-5065520098018338342024-02-01T12:00:00.000-05:002024-02-01T12:00:06.895-05:00Marqués de Cáceres Wines, Spanish Cuisine Highlight Dîner en Blanc<p><font size="5"><em></em></font></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font size="5"><em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9rmWshFzN3VXjDHmS4pv8CmMom2KCZIsFYFUWMJDzRy_2RCtm0yOTa65JeULu8SLK_NyVSpIUliZBdgwOsJkukiZ7iV4urI4pescGyPW0F8V9xojkMVSrMeAh-O8hAMDMizeFAHt5C0lNw5hQZ9Ge1opvKCjHHDdcLgEqzP0-_le2G6CsN5hK1d27MHI/s3750/D%C3%AEner%20en%20Blanc%20Wines%20and%20Menu.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2100" data-original-width="3750" height="353" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9rmWshFzN3VXjDHmS4pv8CmMom2KCZIsFYFUWMJDzRy_2RCtm0yOTa65JeULu8SLK_NyVSpIUliZBdgwOsJkukiZ7iV4urI4pescGyPW0F8V9xojkMVSrMeAh-O8hAMDMizeFAHt5C0lNw5hQZ9Ge1opvKCjHHDdcLgEqzP0-_le2G6CsN5hK1d27MHI/w632-h353/D%C3%AEner%20en%20Blanc%20Wines%20and%20Menu.png" width="632" /></a></em></font></div><font size="5"><em><br />Wines from Rioja and Rueda featured at fashionable dinner.</em></font><p></p> <p>Whenever I receive a group of wines to review, we usually gather friends and hold a wine dinner. That was the case with wines we received from the well-known Spanish winery Marqués de Cáceres. My wife, the Green Dragon, decided to add a twist, “We’re going to make this a dinner in white!”</p> <p>Dîner en Blanc is a worldwide event spanning six continents in which people have a meal dressed in white in a temporary dining setup in a public space. Diners are required to provide their own food, tables, chairs, and tablecloths. So, I guess we properly should have called our event Dîner en Blanc-ish, because we certainly weren’t going to ask our guests to sit outside in January.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR2q-UtYYiwxqU0ye4B_HhVAIvqkIAZNMsQ9qnQwRV-rOf_bvI_RupGmiv2b76vVTcoIDg2nlJ7h-4KAvP7lqBl-3JvTNhnyOQ1IZNPYJyJMl5SALUZv8rzUz_LG5w2-kH5PdJhOKWQ9sUGjIlsgTFez_xZ7cwjT-ffvHwlek2gqZCXJXM9NKFNk2K9Xw/s1235/Diner%20en%20Blanc.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1195" data-original-width="1235" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR2q-UtYYiwxqU0ye4B_HhVAIvqkIAZNMsQ9qnQwRV-rOf_bvI_RupGmiv2b76vVTcoIDg2nlJ7h-4KAvP7lqBl-3JvTNhnyOQ1IZNPYJyJMl5SALUZv8rzUz_LG5w2-kH5PdJhOKWQ9sUGjIlsgTFez_xZ7cwjT-ffvHwlek2gqZCXJXM9NKFNk2K9Xw/w498-h482/Diner%20en%20Blanc.png" width="498" /></a></div><p>This sent me on a quest for things not normally in my wardrobe, like white shoes, white pants, and a white belt. I’m sure our guests faced a similar sartorial dilemma.</p> <p></p> <p>Our wine lineup included a Cava, two whites from the Rueda region, and a rosé and two reds from Rioja. Guests at the dinner were asked to choose a wine and prepare a small plate to pair with it.</p> <p>Marqués de Cáceres was founded by Enrique Forner in 1970. He was exiled to France during the Spanish Civil War and founded a wine business in the Rhône and Loire valleys. He later purchased two chateaux grand cru classé in Bordeaux.</p> <p>Under the guidance of daughter Christina Forner, who took over the winery operation in 2007, the winery expanded into Rueda and later expanded into Ribera del Duero. Today, the wines can be found in 120 countries, and 50% of the production is exported.</p> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwM6DZ-pdHBhmy-UPf1N1sfzFqQlUH6nBEFJiMjYvQuA3fLW4tOOFTC2XiHUlzytqhT-eIktrKeuBAX2n-QWzaLH0XfhObpFg3RTj1vwDDqaaZWW2GeeGl-mLRKUGAN50jydPmP_7iVlJuUEZr3fw-wRmniC_NhaP6Wq2ektYATu2-OL-cnZJWPCEmiX4/s2560/PXL_20240127_232140644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1920" height="459" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwM6DZ-pdHBhmy-UPf1N1sfzFqQlUH6nBEFJiMjYvQuA3fLW4tOOFTC2XiHUlzytqhT-eIktrKeuBAX2n-QWzaLH0XfhObpFg3RTj1vwDDqaaZWW2GeeGl-mLRKUGAN50jydPmP_7iVlJuUEZr3fw-wRmniC_NhaP6Wq2ektYATu2-OL-cnZJWPCEmiX4/w344-h459/PXL_20240127_232140644.jpg" width="344" /></a></div><br />As the crowd gathered and oohed and aahed over the white outfits and the stunning table decorations, we popped open the Marqués de Cáceres Brut Cava. Cava is one of my favorite sparkling wines because it is made in the traditional method, just like champagne. The energetic bubbles and creamy froth added to the festive mood as we munched on delicious Belgian endive and radicchio stuffed with either brie cheese, walnuts, and drizzled honey, or whipped feta scattered with capers and red pepper flakes. Thanks to Ronda and Joe, who traveled from Savannah to attend, for this dish.<p></p> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGL9f-eD4C4Vi2T5P45e_F9whHyWsyxRfRA6VAOZb4G-rSJhqoo2JXd6773h2Cq7-u7A9zG0Do5RhwkP2-r82EQMYphtsuT7nBm2ooQVnQ77bXIdmlzyOZ9nm4rWuYZL6H6W8Xe9ai6b6TooY7Z3IjtCWZsgR-VMzI8izSXA0ycjVAoKp8A4J7grQRmWY/s2560/PXL_20240127_232934550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1920" height="451" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGL9f-eD4C4Vi2T5P45e_F9whHyWsyxRfRA6VAOZb4G-rSJhqoo2JXd6773h2Cq7-u7A9zG0Do5RhwkP2-r82EQMYphtsuT7nBm2ooQVnQ77bXIdmlzyOZ9nm4rWuYZL6H6W8Xe9ai6b6TooY7Z3IjtCWZsgR-VMzI8izSXA0ycjVAoKp8A4J7grQRmWY/w338-h451/PXL_20240127_232934550.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />The next course featured grilled shrimp atop a citrus salad of naval and blood oranges, shallots, olives, thinly sliced fennel, and red onion. This provided an ideal pairing for the 2021 Sauvignon Blanc from Rueda. Rueda is crafting some of the most interesting white wines in Spain. The rocky soil forces the grapevine roots deep below, digging through sandy, stony soil for water and nutrients. This results in delicious minerality in Rueda wines.<p></p> <p>The Sauvignon Blanc is rich and herbaceous with notes of peach and pear. If you are a Sauvignon Blanc fan, give it a try. Alison created this tasty salad.</p> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj66Y5QnN3cmDi7KoWTF6n_EpPE7xUs1SqzpDh2fSV_0QkjwnnniovH5N6-kGYSgHsD0ArkVpdr39_o-9jFHnZU-aNh6tnm43Wd4ennxsfDpApHxuaMouUo4EQc26ngS7InS97wZf6AqhezlHQRbdeafz41c0slpnffVZ_r4bJuqhkNqTDCD6Ia2EHz-Og/s2560/PXL_20240128_002933368.PORTRAIT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1920" height="433" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj66Y5QnN3cmDi7KoWTF6n_EpPE7xUs1SqzpDh2fSV_0QkjwnnniovH5N6-kGYSgHsD0ArkVpdr39_o-9jFHnZU-aNh6tnm43Wd4ennxsfDpApHxuaMouUo4EQc26ngS7InS97wZf6AqhezlHQRbdeafz41c0slpnffVZ_r4bJuqhkNqTDCD6Ia2EHz-Og/w325-h433/PXL_20240128_002933368.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="325" /></a></div><br />Verdejo is by far the most planted variety in Rueda. The 2022 vintage we sampled was youthful and tasty with lime and mineral notes with a slight floral accent. The grapes are harvested at night to preserve the fresh flavors. Our next dish, Salmorejo, is a traditional chilled soup made with tomato and bread and has a thick texture. Our dish was topped with chopped egg and Serrano ham. The acidity and refreshing flavor of the Verdejo were perfect to cut through the creaminess of the soup. Gracias to the Green Dragon for this dish.<p></p> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFRsD9tU4RXQ8b8wnE4DCWML78IE4TWJ6QSu6jlk3-gXkP69tSELBitXXQjLON3tzcdFA5clNzGmsD9NtKV6pOR9OMovAISR4Agq-hTtdcC9qnpB33SGPyjHJxiF_mEknYXvZApc6Gx6yPeazThMTexC1JyDu-NNVwJ42ldFYc5bJ3apHr9HZHLQVu5xI/s2560/PXL_20240128_004930099.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1920" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFRsD9tU4RXQ8b8wnE4DCWML78IE4TWJ6QSu6jlk3-gXkP69tSELBitXXQjLON3tzcdFA5clNzGmsD9NtKV6pOR9OMovAISR4Agq-hTtdcC9qnpB33SGPyjHJxiF_mEknYXvZApc6Gx6yPeazThMTexC1JyDu-NNVwJ42ldFYc5bJ3apHr9HZHLQVu5xI/w320-h427/PXL_20240128_004930099.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Expect the unexpected with my good friend Arthur Barham of <a href="https://www.merlot2muscadine.com/" target="_blank">Merlot 2 Muscadine</a> and his wife Mary. They transported us to the Spanish seaside with a show-stopping paella of saffron-infused rice cooked with chicken, chorizo, and shrimp. The dish was presented in individual cast iron pans. This popular Spanish dish was matched with the 2022 Rioja rosé. The wine is a delicate pale coral color with intense red berry flavors and great acidity. This was a truly inspired pairing.<p></p> <p>As Rueda is known for its white wines, Rioja is recognized around the world for its red wines. The region is a DOCa, the highest quality category in Spanish wine regulation. The harvesting of wine in the area dates back to the time of the Phoenicians. The preeminent grape is Tempranillo with Garnacha a distant second. </p> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJJ9gPnHy8jyM6TS9vuI3j_6sKPsqDN0TfGBRdyTh5LiA3mODZ3VHGhLf4l6KeDBkrgkb0EBqfgkl3Gw9CfzvyF5Um9wlScnFi-40KMo1tPcOSXHAWyozOSd43mupy6pXQ5tOs-fEulCnWm1QlYwGzhRjYdaTy0tNAsR7qNS6dwAfeThzCmFa0v0vji8/s2560/PXL_20240128_010628215.PORTRAIT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1920" height="433" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJJ9gPnHy8jyM6TS9vuI3j_6sKPsqDN0TfGBRdyTh5LiA3mODZ3VHGhLf4l6KeDBkrgkb0EBqfgkl3Gw9CfzvyF5Um9wlScnFi-40KMo1tPcOSXHAWyozOSd43mupy6pXQ5tOs-fEulCnWm1QlYwGzhRjYdaTy0tNAsR7qNS6dwAfeThzCmFa0v0vji8/w324-h433/PXL_20240128_010628215.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="324" /></a></div><br />The 2019 Rioja Crianza is mostly Tempranillo with small amounts of Garnacha and Graciano. It is aged for 12 months in oak barrels and another year in the bottle. I was pleasantly surprised by its silky texture. It was a grand match with the Ibondigas en Salsa de Almendras, tender pork meatballs poached in a creamy almond sauce accompanied by an assortment of vegetables. Diane and John made this masterpiece that melts in your mouth.<p></p> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2dd6KLo2pG5t8ObMgJTAC7n6FbpwKstLmSJsYbyr10YTeMCSys5IK_ZhTxE83zL7X1wqgG3vm9gwosSH5958yo7soABXDQ3XnJgAYx3rDQhSAb81QlOtS9JhO55fXb8Z6nVZx0ZkhCMXG2i5wHDCAYyIi_u0qXYrchL_LhCa0T2VhLAi6h_X5jt_2deQ/s1600/image(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2dd6KLo2pG5t8ObMgJTAC7n6FbpwKstLmSJsYbyr10YTeMCSys5IK_ZhTxE83zL7X1wqgG3vm9gwosSH5958yo7soABXDQ3XnJgAYx3rDQhSAb81QlOtS9JhO55fXb8Z6nVZx0ZkhCMXG2i5wHDCAYyIi_u0qXYrchL_LhCa0T2VhLAi6h_X5jt_2deQ/w315-h420/image(2).jpg" width="315" /></a></div><br />The 2017 Rioja Reserva is a bold wine made only in the best vintages from vines between 45 and 50 years old. The wine is aged for 20 months with an additional two years of bottle aging. The result is a superior wine with solid tannins yet smooth ripe fruit flavors. This wine required something bold, and Green Dragon served up smoky lamb chops with Patatas Bravas (grilled potatoes with a spicy sauce). The strong flavors of the lamb were balanced nicely by this big Spanish red.<p></p> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUd7MxgBBhHsDsKPSrbEkbFBEM9PuJ9E5HpKTrFiiPVnaEMAr-bnhOgcR9RfFXThh95KWIbu2mxsHuUx8L9THCgXFcBQRD9j0FlR2H346YjNe2qkAqVD1V_20oloDMwEm1lsrRFSu9diRMidKdWo8GI9B6htdeHAqcU-don3L-2PC2DzwO7wFyilrVXN8/s2560/PXL_20240128_021107843.PORTRAIT.ORIGINAL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="2560" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUd7MxgBBhHsDsKPSrbEkbFBEM9PuJ9E5HpKTrFiiPVnaEMAr-bnhOgcR9RfFXThh95KWIbu2mxsHuUx8L9THCgXFcBQRD9j0FlR2H346YjNe2qkAqVD1V_20oloDMwEm1lsrRFSu9diRMidKdWo8GI9B6htdeHAqcU-don3L-2PC2DzwO7wFyilrVXN8/w559-h420/PXL_20240128_021107843.PORTRAIT.ORIGINAL.jpg" width="559" /></a></div><br />Thanks to all our friends for making this a truly fantastic event! <p></p> <p><em>Full disclosure: These wines were received as a marketing sample.</em></p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-5531334545133124402024-01-30T16:04:00.000-05:002024-01-30T16:04:45.254-05:00Blindfold 2021 Blanc de Noir White Pinot Noir<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFYZ2Gevt205i44BBguMHFSDv-cigicD0boiCJO2Na2fXODD3QaRBTVU85NUdow9WUZ7RVe0fHFTmiDB3aPK-v1iaiY4s51JeV7dHOuucyMgkp9qbRqMmd7kEch9X1Qho3c43cpJarbCJyy8Esv3wMq-f4deVHVIArmGwfA_lIg6lmRPaMflb-DU9hLhw/s2560/Blindfold%20White%20Pinot%20Noir.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1920" height="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFYZ2Gevt205i44BBguMHFSDv-cigicD0boiCJO2Na2fXODD3QaRBTVU85NUdow9WUZ7RVe0fHFTmiDB3aPK-v1iaiY4s51JeV7dHOuucyMgkp9qbRqMmd7kEch9X1Qho3c43cpJarbCJyy8Esv3wMq-f4deVHVIArmGwfA_lIg6lmRPaMflb-DU9hLhw/w450-h600/Blindfold%20White%20Pinot%20Noir.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>You may need to do a doubletake on this photograph. Yes, it is a bottle and glass of Pinot Noir, but it is a glowing, platinum gold color.<p></p> <p>This is the Prisoner Wine Company’s white Pinot Noir, Blindfold. It is also labeled Blanc de Noir, meaning a white wine created from red grapes.</p> <p>I picked this up from the closeout section of a local grocery. They have some very good wines so I usually swing by the wine section to look for bargains.</p> <p>Red wines derive their color from contact with the grape skins (maceration). For white wines, the grapes are pressed and the skins are removed before fermentation.</p> <p>My experience with white Pinot Noir is mixed at best. While it is cool to have a Pinot Noir that is white, I’m still looking to sip a great wine. Blindfold falls short of that mark.</p> <p>Let me explain. The SRP for this Blanc de Noir is $35 but I picked it up for half price. For under $20, you can pick up a lower-end Oregon Pinot Noir that will satisfy you in every way and deliver a wine that checks all the varietal hallmarks.</p> <p>Blindfold isn’t a great white wine and certainly isn’t a great Pinot Noir. For that matter, it isn’t 100% Pinot Noir. It has small amounts of Viognier and Gewürztraminer.</p> <p>I opted to chill the wine, but let it warm a bit more than I would for, say, a Sauvignon Blanc. The aroma gives no hint that it is mostly Pinot Noir. Instead, there are citrus notes.</p> <p>This isn’t a wine that tastes like a red but simply looks white. It drinks like a white wine with notes of white blossom and peach. Also, the wine is lacking in the texture and depth that make Pinot Noir a special wine. </p> <p>Blindfold isn’t terrible, but it is a disappointment at $35. If it weren’t a white Pinot Noir, it would be a non-descript white wine. To amuse dinner guests, you could serve this and have everyone try to guess the variety. Instead, I would suggest picking up a nice French Chablis or Russian River Valley Pinot Noir.</p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-19792211405340998452024-01-11T14:30:00.024-05:002024-01-11T14:30:00.135-05:00These Italian Wines Make Any Occasion Special<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidk9UX9wu2tCy-VEeXd-osYom5YA59Gc8T4oPyHRZtEu6Y9An7dqMywSjdoprod5tI0S7ywVQnJEFgM8YVUrVPRWwsqTKFtLh-XivAnGI62zYAQwXP8KGbGLRmGjc6RxIvMWLbD4mRnigOD7vFZ0POP1Rqrb4HGr2kGyPuoIkK6tM9gqOdM0meGJHEHsg/s2520/Acquesi%20and%20Riva%20Leone%20Wines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2520" data-original-width="1890" height="513" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidk9UX9wu2tCy-VEeXd-osYom5YA59Gc8T4oPyHRZtEu6Y9An7dqMywSjdoprod5tI0S7ywVQnJEFgM8YVUrVPRWwsqTKFtLh-XivAnGI62zYAQwXP8KGbGLRmGjc6RxIvMWLbD4mRnigOD7vFZ0POP1Rqrb4HGr2kGyPuoIkK6tM9gqOdM0meGJHEHsg/w385-h513/Acquesi%20and%20Riva%20Leone%20Wines.jpg" width="385" /></a></div>The new year is underway and the holiday scene has passed by in a blur. But here are three reasons you can enliven any day to a special occasion. <p></p> <p>We recently sampled three delightful wines from Italy. They run the gamut from a refreshing white to a Piedmont red to an Asti sparkler.</p> <p><strong>Riva Leone 2021 Gavi DOCG</strong></p> <p>The Piedmont region, in the northwest region of Italy, is best known for dynamic reds like Barolo and Barbaresco which are based on the Nebbiolo grape. It also produces a couple of my favorite whites, Gavi and Arneis.</p> <p>We were pleased to pop open the 2021 Gavi from Riva Leone. Gavi is made from the Cortese grape and is crisp and floral.</p> <p>It’s a classic wine with racy and fresh flavors with notes of pear and the aroma of pears. We opened it to accompany a light vegan Indian-inspired meal. The price is as refreshing as its taste, $15 SRP.</p> <p><strong>Riva Leone 2021 Barbera DOC</strong></p> <p>The reds of the Piedmont region have plentiful acidity which gives the big reds longevity and makes the lighter styles nicely refreshing. I find myself looking for Barbera when I’m tired of big, whomping, Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Its lighter body makes it well-suited for lighter entrees or casual sipping. Bringing out a bottle of Italian Barbera has much more panache than pulling out an uninspiring domestic wine.</p> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVd0kc3FlBTxZmHTARjN-Eyr_-TGtM6Uc4y-7PcjaMKOzyvy3o6J7sR5cNLwgm3ZZpHcu8tdOama49aekYyNhQuzHbmg50vQYIne1fD-dQgzquhn1dZEbGK6eobVplw_3muIG5euaKMbPhIyszuJ3LI6CfxaeoOrIG-HGN095Fn5gvA9ciYnDGmXIOuX0/s2592/Riva%20Leone%20Gavi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="405" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVd0kc3FlBTxZmHTARjN-Eyr_-TGtM6Uc4y-7PcjaMKOzyvy3o6J7sR5cNLwgm3ZZpHcu8tdOama49aekYyNhQuzHbmg50vQYIne1fD-dQgzquhn1dZEbGK6eobVplw_3muIG5euaKMbPhIyszuJ3LI6CfxaeoOrIG-HGN095Fn5gvA9ciYnDGmXIOuX0/w303-h405/Riva%20Leone%20Gavi.jpg" width="303" /></a></div>For about $12, this Riva Leone Barbera is certainly a value leader. In the glass, it is a deep ruby color. On the nose enjoy whiffs of black cherry and spice. On the palate enjoy dark fruit flavors and accents of spice. There is plenty of rich fruit on the finish.<p></p> <p><strong>Acquesi Asti Spumante</strong></p> <p>We have enjoyed Acquesi on a couple prior occasions. Asti is traditionally a semi-sweet to sweet wine. It’s a fully sparkling wine, unlike Moscato, which is frizzante (lightly sparkling). This is a perfect wine for those who enjoy sweeter wines.</p> <p>It is a delicate yellow in the glass with a nice perlage. There’s a lovely floral aroma and palate notes of honey, peach, and citrus.</p> <p>The bottle is beautiful and the wine is suitable for toasting and also would be a great pick to pair with desserts pastries, baked desserts, or desserts with cream. The SRP is $18.</p> <p>These three wines can help you dispel any dreary winter night and transform it into a special occasion.</p> <p><em>Full disclosure: These wines were received as a marketing sample.</em></p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-14427228410004090402024-01-05T13:49:00.001-05:002024-01-11T08:34:27.067-05:00Miguel Torres Chile Targets Zero Emissions With Tasteful, Organic Wines<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1tLjH6DQUi0gJIHxK1PwScDwHv-Ii3ROQZ5wBjW_9-JAopso3nUujRW81RuWxxKHslBzbN77-rdl6xhec-hgfMzobqDZnpRck6FWuZjJzbC-ap4vxTe5Em54KBV1hZw-EqQ9XEsfQ9erSWkFAktzGDXo61smsSd4qRG6C4Q_KxmHb_8X1A-F2r4Wf97Q/s2524/PXL_20231105_214928175.PORTRAIT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2524" data-original-width="1767" height="517" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1tLjH6DQUi0gJIHxK1PwScDwHv-Ii3ROQZ5wBjW_9-JAopso3nUujRW81RuWxxKHslBzbN77-rdl6xhec-hgfMzobqDZnpRck6FWuZjJzbC-ap4vxTe5Em54KBV1hZw-EqQ9XEsfQ9erSWkFAktzGDXo61smsSd4qRG6C4Q_KxmHb_8X1A-F2r4Wf97Q/w362-h517/PXL_20231105_214928175.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="362" /></a></div><br />Familia Torres, a well-known winemaking family in Spain, has been producing wine for more than 150 years and five generations. Torres was the first foreign winery in Chile and they produced the first Pinot Noir in that country.<p></p> <p>Miguel Torres Chile today is under the guidance of Miguel Torres Maczassek. Their wine business in Chile is built on three pillars: organic farming, sustainability, and innovation.</p> <p>Their goal is to reach net zero emissions by 2050, a tall order for any winery. In 2021 they attained a 35% reduction in CO2 emissions per bottle with a goal to reach a 60% reduction by 2030.</p> <p>Green practices from vineyard to bottle are helping on the pathway to net zero emissions. Three main practices include:</p> <p><b><u>Waste management:</u></b><b> </b>The winery approaches its industrial waste by installing clean points, reducing the generation of single-use plastic and using elements for packaging that are designed for recycling. They reduced the weight of 3 out of every 4 bottles produced, becoming one of the most significant reductions in the industry, now being 38% lighter. That’s less waste produced and less fuel to ship the wine.</p> <p><b><u>Renewable energy:</u></b> Two photovoltaic arrays of solar panels are installed in the winery in the Curicó Valley. One generates power for the winemaking process; and the other for the production process, such as bottling and labeling. These projects together with the biomass boilers self-generate 30% of clean energy.<u></u><u></u></p> <p><b><u>Sustainable viticulture:</u></b> This involves regenerative viticulture, which seeks to imitate nature as much as possible so that vineyards can become natural ecosystems. The winery applies this practice in its vineyards to reach a new balance based on the increase of biodiversity and organic matter in a natural way, thus enabling the vineyards to absorb more atmospheric CO2.</p> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5wKOgzSDMy27J3ARTm9YBIUc2gdQt2r7rPueyr6il1OompGlijV2gwPKYHYvYCh16zrxoj_ecwGKUE1P3pCEBAB_wJDI_KBx_IyqA9yhikVQ6cPY2FATdYzkYDPMkSC_5MYr4n2bMBjO8EB4CSCA2dMQciHqgckmJOYugfhk39iT5XY02Cn9WXE5oWo/s1944/PXL_20231213_182726015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="1918" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5wKOgzSDMy27J3ARTm9YBIUc2gdQt2r7rPueyr6il1OompGlijV2gwPKYHYvYCh16zrxoj_ecwGKUE1P3pCEBAB_wJDI_KBx_IyqA9yhikVQ6cPY2FATdYzkYDPMkSC_5MYr4n2bMBjO8EB4CSCA2dMQciHqgckmJOYugfhk39iT5XY02Cn9WXE5oWo/s320/PXL_20231213_182726015.jpg" width="316" /></a></div><br />We contemplated these impressive environmental actions while sipping three bottles from the Miguel Torres Chile “Las Mulas” label. We sampled the 2021 Sauvignon Blanc, 2022 Rose, and the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, all made with organically grown grapes. <p></p> <p>The rosé comes from the Central Valley and is a blend of Pinot Noir and Monastrell (also known as Mourvèdre in France). This is a cheerful wine with delicate notes of fresh raspberries and ample acidity. This is a great aperitif or pairing with a light, casual meal.</p> <p>Pale yellow in the glass, the Sauvignon Blanc is subtle, with a wafting aroma of tropical fruit. On the palate, it tastes of lychee fruit, freshly mown grass, and charming citrus fruit. This is perfect for baked or sauteed fish with light sauce. It’s truly wonderful on its own as well.</p> <p>Las Mulas Cabernet Sauvignon was a satisfying surprise. All three of these bottles sell for about $10, but the Cabernet is loaded with flavor and outperforms other wines that are double the cost. I brought this to my weekly wine tasting with my friend Arthur Barham (Merlot 2 Muscadine). The flavors are rich, with prominent red fruit and accents of spice. It’s round and elegant with tannins providing a light and easy structure. The finish was buoyant and long. This is a tremendous deal at the price.</p> <p>We suggest you cheer Miguel Torres Chile on their way to zero net emissions by toasting with a bottle of their Las Mulas wine!</p> <p><em>Full disclosure: These wines were received as marketing samples.</em></p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-20454833847804041592023-12-19T12:39:00.001-05:002024-01-11T08:37:16.342-05:00El Coto Rioja Wines Perfect For All Occasions<h1><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwLLyU3DmQ83DdK-shztjk0fMp3AJLdUXC4YjBLqnM4hWPpVVDO4RqyAkvM5FgctXFjqaWm0QXr8DxMc7cFDS3Gs6MVRJtLJhPRVL4kTajx0om0VglVizFkBHLoqCcC8ZyPTrCg-Ee0oGvFtipjfDllUfmhpqnQxJTMkPfSj4j9K4w1eQcWdJAxX1xKEY/s2592/PXL_20230923_234602356.PORTRAIT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="517" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwLLyU3DmQ83DdK-shztjk0fMp3AJLdUXC4YjBLqnM4hWPpVVDO4RqyAkvM5FgctXFjqaWm0QXr8DxMc7cFDS3Gs6MVRJtLJhPRVL4kTajx0om0VglVizFkBHLoqCcC8ZyPTrCg-Ee0oGvFtipjfDllUfmhpqnQxJTMkPfSj4j9K4w1eQcWdJAxX1xKEY/w388-h517/PXL_20230923_234602356.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="388" /></a></div><br />The many colors of Rioja wines</h1> <p>If you are a lover of Spanish wines, you may save your Rioja for special occasions. These wines can be big and bold with notes of leather and American oak best suited for hearty meat-centered meals. We recently tasted three wines that smashed that stereotype.</p> <p><strong><em><a href="https://twitter.com/vino_sphere">Follow us on X, formerly Twitter</a></em></strong></p> <p>El Coto is the largest vineyard owner in the Rioja DOCa and is considered one of Spain’s best-known wine brands. We opened a red, a white, and a Rosada (rosé) and found a trio of accessible and affordable wines.</p> <h1>Sipping White Rioja</h1> <p>Only nine percent of wine in Rioja is white, so sampling one is a unique treat. The 2022 El Coto Blanco is primarily Viura with smaller qualities of Sauvignon Blanc and Verdejo. Viura wines are light with plenty of fruit flavor. This Blanco is a refreshing bottle with zesty citrus notes and a perfect pick with seafood. The SRP is an appetizing $11.99.</p> <p>I truly enjoy rosé from Spain, called rosado. While is seems the world is engulfed with rosé modelled after the Provence style, rosado rewards us with deeper color and flavor.</p> <h1>Rosado From Rioja</h1> <p>The 2021 El Coto Rosado is made from 90% Tempranillo and 10% Garnacha from the Los Almendros estate vineyard. Round and lovely on the palate, there are flavors of red currant and strawberry. Serve chilled at your next holiday event and you’ll see it is perfect with appetizers and all but the heaviest meals. Priced at $11.99.</p> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr6RM-FHH7LkZf7Etcz8eovazyUvnQKDagktXiiMD2CGru59Eh4odambMumLPzZ0RyH9Ual3WJTr3aQ684Z41g_A9Nggmo9FAsmuQ0g9nFl_fvc9tzQj6mjUMgnE_OhrDBOjtoufIZN2q3LTNOl99A2PIP71hVxnRdFJqW0NtbT5tZgc_-5ZVV4SFPpAE/s1305/El%20Coto%20Rioja%20Wines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1305" data-original-width="1296" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr6RM-FHH7LkZf7Etcz8eovazyUvnQKDagktXiiMD2CGru59Eh4odambMumLPzZ0RyH9Ual3WJTr3aQ684Z41g_A9Nggmo9FAsmuQ0g9nFl_fvc9tzQj6mjUMgnE_OhrDBOjtoufIZN2q3LTNOl99A2PIP71hVxnRdFJqW0NtbT5tZgc_-5ZVV4SFPpAE/s320/El%20Coto%20Rioja%20Wines.jpg" width="318" /></a></div><br />Made 100% from Rioja’s signature grape, Tempranillo, the 2019 El Coto Crianza receives 12 months of aging in oak. The resulting wine is well-balanced with a silky finish. You’ll find layers of raspberry, red fruit, spice and oak. <p></p> <p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Keep up with the latest. Follow us on </strong></em></a><em><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Instagram!</strong></em></a></strong></em></p> <p>We paired this with homemade pizza and a nice spinach salad and expect the wine will go nicely with a variety of meats and cheeses. </p> <p>El Coto is a great choice for entertaining or casual sipping. These Rioja wines are sure to please and come at a price that allows you to stock up.</p> <p><em>Full disclosure: These wines were received as a marketing sample.</em></p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-51739880970965494852023-12-15T15:38:00.002-05:002024-01-12T10:11:01.328-05:00“Eastern Promise” The Perfect Wine Book For Christmas Giving<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_2f2W4xqtV-ui0Qbz_R5U7SCPgrWCRKVrqgwdNQ3CoHJN8cnMy3kiH1HsRhJUVmyI-mcBvVlIDqY27UkKztVcNnzQP7IQlNFWiy_QA5YNljPQq2DkmRuDbFCgxrohWji6buKOKDOliIY-HVUeOfBvvROj-j6gphk3sBjnQtg6iJ-E-8FcvuoFK7SLnug/s1500/Eastern%20Promise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="938" height="467" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_2f2W4xqtV-ui0Qbz_R5U7SCPgrWCRKVrqgwdNQ3CoHJN8cnMy3kiH1HsRhJUVmyI-mcBvVlIDqY27UkKztVcNnzQP7IQlNFWiy_QA5YNljPQq2DkmRuDbFCgxrohWji6buKOKDOliIY-HVUeOfBvvROj-j6gphk3sBjnQtg6iJ-E-8FcvuoFK7SLnug/w292-h467/Eastern%20Promise.jpg" width="292" /></a></div><br />Felix Hart is at it again. The wine buyer for Britain’s largest supermarket chain is the witty and adventurous star of Peter Stafford-Bow’s Felix Hart novels. <em>Eastern Promise</em> is the fourth installment and they all have been incredibly enjoyable to read.<p></p> <p>Eastern Promise sees Felix being reassigned to the kitchen and bathroom accessories department as part of a radical reorganization by a new CEO. Along with his assignment to procure a splashback-proof toilet seat, he also receives a life-changing amount of money to investigate a billionaire suspected of wine fraud.</p> <p>This is another Felix Hart romp as only Stafford-Bow can write them. World-class wine tastings descending into chaos, police chases and kidnapping. It all culminates at a showdown with a criminal mastermind.</p> <p>The world wine market is about to hit rock bottom unless our hero can find a solution and escape the clutches of man-eating elephant seals. The plot is worthy of a James Bond movie and the style and wit of the author makes this a book you won’t put down.</p> <p>The book is available for $12.99 on Amazon. An audiobook is also available. I recommend this highly as a Christmas gift for yourself or your wine loving friends. Read it with a fine Burgundy!</p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-16100951987479356122023-12-01T15:37:00.002-05:002024-01-12T10:27:00.434-05:00Ca’ Del Lago 2021 Lugana<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbNuRJgMATL6MBTFYSLmcVcBigmD5igDWl0NA1vuq2qwdl1dH5tiC_WEbU_XOgA-y7otWCgrupaSvSkyMqQoOKVG7wwiKDyPo0eC02e1rEzpV_zs9f29kKCzaUVv3V9duSHwTVuQs4MkQ9t5Acp4GvMv3yodmDm9xUxBCOwp5XvP6R1gLpyxGr3RjBMoc/s2592/Ca'%20del%20Lago%202021%20Lugana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="501" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbNuRJgMATL6MBTFYSLmcVcBigmD5igDWl0NA1vuq2qwdl1dH5tiC_WEbU_XOgA-y7otWCgrupaSvSkyMqQoOKVG7wwiKDyPo0eC02e1rEzpV_zs9f29kKCzaUVv3V9duSHwTVuQs4MkQ9t5Acp4GvMv3yodmDm9xUxBCOwp5XvP6R1gLpyxGr3RjBMoc/w376-h501/Ca'%20del%20Lago%202021%20Lugana.jpg" width="376" /></a></div><p>With our daughter, a very accomplished vegan chef, in town. Her creation needed a special bottle, so we reached for a white wine from Lugana in Italy. The Lugana region is in the northern part of the country, on the south shore of Lake Garda and near the Dolomite Mountains.</p> <p></p> <p>The grape is Turbiana, thought at one time to be Trebbiano or a clone of Verdicchio. Testing has since proven it is it’s own distinct variety (although closely related to Verdicchio). The cooling winds from the Dolomites and the moderating effect of the lake allow the grapes to develop wonderful structure. The mineral-rich soils, mixed with clay, help impart a unique flavor profile.</p> <p>Chef Rachel whipped up a plant-based meal that featured Caldo Verde, a Portuguese potato soup with greens and (vegan) sausage. In addition o a salad with lemon vinaigrette dressing, we enjoyed Bolhinos de Arroz, which are herbed rice cakes.</p> <p>The wine has a nice structure, so much so that it might appeal to those normally favoring red wine. Tropical notes of pineapple, mandarin orange, and stone fruit give a pleasing mouthful of flavor. The fruit and acid are in good balance – no jarring acidity here, just a smooth ride. A thread of minerality gives a refreshing lift to the finish.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQljCvs2LLTjVRSiEDJO5vtxI4aqS3laYjW_anqi5ND2TnsiUiHpHmNK9VA6TOhJitiQAnf0R5HLrn0aMGo7G7d-nwAvoOnOxKx3Bz3XzWVEWt5yxZ77I6DAvHStK3Syqa7wk6nElJMRUjq4DBYAiFAZnrPY7FtqJdWcAeC8JvuUUDQJjZ6WuYrY_UpME/s2592/Lugana%20with%20vegan%20meal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="433" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQljCvs2LLTjVRSiEDJO5vtxI4aqS3laYjW_anqi5ND2TnsiUiHpHmNK9VA6TOhJitiQAnf0R5HLrn0aMGo7G7d-nwAvoOnOxKx3Bz3XzWVEWt5yxZ77I6DAvHStK3Syqa7wk6nElJMRUjq4DBYAiFAZnrPY7FtqJdWcAeC8JvuUUDQJjZ6WuYrY_UpME/w325-h433/Lugana%20with%20vegan%20meal.jpg" width="325" /></a></div><p>Subtle flavors of the vegan cuisine were a nice match for the Lugana. The 2021 Ca’ del Lago Lugana was a steal for $12.99 at Lidl. In fact, we enjoyed this wine so much I went back and purchased a couple more.</p> <p></p> <p>Lugana is a wine not widely distributed in the US. When you see it, don’t hesitate. Buy several and you’ll be pleased you did.</p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-79335184934885983912023-11-21T16:36:00.003-05:002024-01-12T10:38:17.566-05:00Crest Of The Blue Ridge A New Home For Top Quality North Carolina Wine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgODQXGpR_OMPQQ92MEQMzQ32AMyyLRmwXINZf3QUkgvYN_LYCClQ3IkcYfqeSAnYsWyHcsVTqRfKyNy_q2oNZ7maeeHxEt7DiBKEycYgFKS5SR9A-XxHAbU3qcHdJCMP8w8rxX8RLLhr5f7pn_Fg7aZ4Om7I8lA5a-3S3t4kZalXbUYNBMkVcCY_CTLbg/s1024/Aerial%20Photo%20of%20Hendersonville.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="668" data-original-width="1024" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgODQXGpR_OMPQQ92MEQMzQ32AMyyLRmwXINZf3QUkgvYN_LYCClQ3IkcYfqeSAnYsWyHcsVTqRfKyNy_q2oNZ7maeeHxEt7DiBKEycYgFKS5SR9A-XxHAbU3qcHdJCMP8w8rxX8RLLhr5f7pn_Fg7aZ4Om7I8lA5a-3S3t4kZalXbUYNBMkVcCY_CTLbg/w456-h298/Aerial%20Photo%20of%20Hendersonville.jpg" width="456" /></a></div><p><em><strong>Photos and article by </strong></em></p><p align="left"><em><strong>Dave Nershi, CSW</strong></em></p> <p>The Crest of the Blue Ridge AVA is perched on the Eastern Continental Divide. North Carolina’s newest AVA, it spans 215 acres and features seven wineries with more on the way.</p> <p></p> <p>Warm days and cool mountain nights coupled with the right soils and quality water provide a favorable combination for producing quality grapes and wine. The wineries are a short drive from Hendersonville, NC, a vibrant Blue Ridge mountain town that offers a popular downtown with shops, boutiques, galleries, restaurants and pubs.</p> <p><strong><em><a href="https://twitter.com/vino_sphere" target="_blank">Follow us on X, formerly Twitter</a></em></strong></p> <p>During our recent trip we visited five wineries and enjoyed a truly elevated experience.</p> <h3>Burntshirt Vineyards</h3> <p>The curious name for this vineyard stems from a European custom of burning back vines to the ground to renew the nutrients in the soil. According to folklore, if you burned a shirt in the fire, it brought prosperity and good fortune. We visited the Hendersonville tasting room located at 2695 Sugarloaf Road (there’s also a tasting room at Chimney Rock). </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEwdXiYkULOFeCQ5e-ovMtoDqtPrWAFsBXlm6ThlcijiTnJnRRApEA3fgHnJ7KKYfE1ECwZMfdn_cFeXJMyQsAWCbPdsQrM0JJNrVgOR9NDUnT-GDFpS-lE70qf7Nexdevvdpb1r_iVxrDdONw4qB-lVQhX3nSrfrrEd3vO5JN17-jzb87G_5Lncrfu60/s1080/Burntshirt%20Vineyards.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEwdXiYkULOFeCQ5e-ovMtoDqtPrWAFsBXlm6ThlcijiTnJnRRApEA3fgHnJ7KKYfE1ECwZMfdn_cFeXJMyQsAWCbPdsQrM0JJNrVgOR9NDUnT-GDFpS-lE70qf7Nexdevvdpb1r_iVxrDdONw4qB-lVQhX3nSrfrrEd3vO5JN17-jzb87G_5Lncrfu60/w404-h404/Burntshirt%20Vineyards.png" width="404" /></a></div><p>At the heart of the winery are two vineyards one on each side of the continental divide. The highest is on Burntshirt Mountain, at 3,400 feet. Also at the Hendersonville location is their wonderful Vintner’s Table restaurant, where we enjoyed a superb paired food and wine tasting, thanks to the skills of Chef Clint Betts.</p> <p></p> <p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Keep up with the latest. Follow us on </strong></em></a><em><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Instagram!</strong></em></a></strong></em></p> <p>Standouts included the 2021 Dry Riesling paired with the pork belly, chevre fritter, and pickled red onion appetizer. Seared scallops and rosé were followed by my favorite wine, the 2021 Altitude 3400, a red blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Chambourcin, paired with sesame tuna. A beautiful fillet and the 2021 Cab Franc Reserve was a high point on which to end our lunch.</p> <p>Burntshirt offers a range of wines to suit all palates, including dry, sweet, and dessert-style wines. This is a true destination winery you’ll want to include on your next visit.</p> <h3>Souther Williams Vineyard</h3> <p>Located in Fletcher, Souther William is a 35-acre estate in Hoopers Creek valley. The farm has been in Ken Parker’s family for more than 220 years. What used to be home for apple trees, livestock, and tobacco, is now an estate winery in with a focus on grapes from Germany and Eastern Europe.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSwewCb6dJPT4xU9QmzY5Z18mv7WVRKgYWHkf8x8Ra-nOzJG-5B4fhjRfU7V8i35Q-rmcoy46XoL6rsPVqrRj7x3S3aU5XqT981l-qhU3HBzv6dbzHsG_MxZHp1c3r3wnKorNboxX9u0sF7lM7S4hbvdhJaczj3A1QsUjbjGAQ-pjqkYyvbD9oheaKmRQ/s1000/Souther%20Williams.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSwewCb6dJPT4xU9QmzY5Z18mv7WVRKgYWHkf8x8Ra-nOzJG-5B4fhjRfU7V8i35Q-rmcoy46XoL6rsPVqrRj7x3S3aU5XqT981l-qhU3HBzv6dbzHsG_MxZHp1c3r3wnKorNboxX9u0sF7lM7S4hbvdhJaczj3A1QsUjbjGAQ-pjqkYyvbD9oheaKmRQ/w412-h309/Souther%20Williams.png" width="412" /></a></div><p>Ken spent a career in banking. Since he has a love of all things wine, it was only natural that he and his wife Angela Adams would start a winery. Souther Williams opened in August 2021 and today features 10 acres under vine including three whites, Gruner Veltliner, Riesling, and Vidal Blanc along with five reds, Cynthiana (Norton), Blaufrankish (Lemberger), Regent, Saperavi, and Cabernet Franc.</p> <p></p> <p>The 2021 Gruner is well-balanced with citrus and pepper notes. The 2022 Vidal Blanc has a luscious fruitiness with tropical notes. An exceptional wine is the 2019 More Shenanigans, which features 60% Cynthiana, 25% Blaufrankish as well as Regent and Cab Franc. It has fresh fruit flavors with brambly blackberry notes, with fresh cranberry and spice touches.</p> <p>Souther Williams’ unique open-air tasting pavilion is in the midst of the vines and is perfect in all weather.</p> <h3>Stone Ashe Vineyard</h3> <p>Craig and Tina Little had a vision to establish an estate vineyard similar to the great growing regions of France. Today their vision has taken root at 736 Green Mountain Road in Hendersonville. Stone Ashe Vineyard is named for the soil at their site, which provides outstanding drainage. The vineyard’s steep slopes and microclimate are well-suited for growing elegant fruit.</p> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5v5oK-mzl_JF3NinsaSuErFa1TtPuS4qKB0aQV8fyEM9ghGa5-DhNizNQ0GQ52A-yAILumz1V_JO7wifhXKpKyXG_mnRLfLvMnwLz9AtOUQjWIWEmp-ODNeuWJX6iW9t7GjtQB5ROImaL8I5t-Y1bHr1XEaxqX4wEKib04W1Dc-EPbMkqIdSK73uYAV8/s1080/Stone%20Ashe.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="381" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5v5oK-mzl_JF3NinsaSuErFa1TtPuS4qKB0aQV8fyEM9ghGa5-DhNizNQ0GQ52A-yAILumz1V_JO7wifhXKpKyXG_mnRLfLvMnwLz9AtOUQjWIWEmp-ODNeuWJX6iW9t7GjtQB5ROImaL8I5t-Y1bHr1XEaxqX4wEKib04W1Dc-EPbMkqIdSK73uYAV8/w381-h381/Stone%20Ashe.png" width="381" /></a></div><p>Channeling a ski resort vibe, the tasting room is an upscale experience with a spectacular view from 2,300 feet. It’s the ideal setting to enjoy their meticulously crafted estate wines. An example is the 2020 Cabernet Franc. As Craig says, many wineries in North Carolina produce Cabernet Franc, but few do it well. The grapes are hand-picked with unripe berries removed. Three different clones are used, and picking is done at the optimal time.</p><p></p> <p>The wine has a deep violet color with a ripe berry aroma and blackberry, herbs, and vanilla on the palate. All Stone Ashe wines are estate-grown. Other standouts include the 2021 Montrachet-style Chardonnay, the delicate Sauvignon Blanc, and the Provence-style rosé.</p> <h3>Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards</h3> <p>Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards was the first commercial winery in Henderson County. In 2008, Alan Ward established the winery on farmland that had been in the family for centuries. The farm offers vinifera wines at the tasting room as well as Normandy-style cider at the adjacent Appalachian Ridge Cidery.</p> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3vchTkP6L2ZAkQcHgjlgp7Bp1iRT-yTXtEhXMa3QPKmkY-7LFvZuP1CmFUVTwopr9zOd16hgs7MRWsI5dX0rMp-HsBW_Gr2Gabk4R_8qMXrGUdR7Q8K1UK6ISD1VYHxzetwuJ-z7y7aQQobUblgUxPiMK_TfVmw6idxcKAFAra2V7c9Ey3JXxdHtgRUg/s2000/St.%20Paul%20Mountain.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2000" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3vchTkP6L2ZAkQcHgjlgp7Bp1iRT-yTXtEhXMa3QPKmkY-7LFvZuP1CmFUVTwopr9zOd16hgs7MRWsI5dX0rMp-HsBW_Gr2Gabk4R_8qMXrGUdR7Q8K1UK6ISD1VYHxzetwuJ-z7y7aQQobUblgUxPiMK_TfVmw6idxcKAFAra2V7c9Ey3JXxdHtgRUg/w393-h314/St.%20Paul%20Mountain.png" width="393" /></a></div><br /> Winemaker and cider maker Kelly Rivera Meyers has experience at Virginia wineries as well as Burntshirt Vineyards. A new production facility was opened in 2021, enabling Kelly to combine the best of old and new winemaking techniques. She shared two barrel samples of Petit Verdot, one using délestage, which provides additional oxygenation to the wine to give a lovely soft texture.<p></p> <p>The Saint Paul tasting room is a vibrant meeting place for friends to enjoy live music and outstanding wine. It features a walnut bar and a patio that overlooks a five-acre vineyard. The quirky tubular tasting features wine served in test tubes. The 2021 Vidal Blanc has lovely notes of tropical fruit and green apple. The 2022 Nouveau Jour is a Merlot blend aged three months in neutral oak. Stop by to discover your favorite.</p> <h3>Marked Tree Vineyard</h3> <p>Marked Tree Vineyard is located in Flat Rock on the eastern Continental Divide, situated at an elevation of 2,300 feet. The sloped hills provide good drainage for the vines and the warm days and cool nights allow the grapes sufficient time to develop subtle flavors and character as they ripen.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-HoYB1nEOXYfjxKIpPGGX-RChzCAt6UbI5a0y-FhHDaUicxqcI8FCWs1QYL4uxZScIQIj01P9-waMwQGXJ8-SRmiQV5CMHJhLMQj-X6hx-fn53mPVG9Il9xEKjPoRSiH0LbHIJ_ftXgLBnyzXBUALMXoDh_hhN0I2OvXLNOhiRO-04_q8JRQWrU08FY0/s2000/Marked%20Tree%202.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2000" height="339" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-HoYB1nEOXYfjxKIpPGGX-RChzCAt6UbI5a0y-FhHDaUicxqcI8FCWs1QYL4uxZScIQIj01P9-waMwQGXJ8-SRmiQV5CMHJhLMQj-X6hx-fn53mPVG9Il9xEKjPoRSiH0LbHIJ_ftXgLBnyzXBUALMXoDh_hhN0I2OvXLNOhiRO-04_q8JRQWrU08FY0/w424-h339/Marked%20Tree%202.png" width="424" /></a></div><p>Early settlers in the area noticed oddly shaped trees. The trees were formed and shaped by Native Americans to point out water, hunting grounds, a locations of food. The ancient navigation system now points directly to really outstanding wine.</p> <p></p> <p>Lance Hiatt and Tim Parks wanted to leave their careers in architecture and luxury retail sales. Today their stylish winery, with floor-to-ceiling windows with inspirational views of the hills and the vineyard, is the perfect location to enjoy award-winning North Carolina wine. The 2022 Grüner Veltliner is exceptional with grassy notes, stone fruit, and a peppery touch. The Chloe Rosé is a blend of Lemberger and Muscat Ottonel. It has a fruity mouthfeel of melon, citrus and strawberries. My favorite red is Watershed Red, a luscious blend of Cabernet Franc and Lemberger.</p> <h3><em>For more information about Hendersonville, see </em><a href="https://visithendersonvillenc.org/" title="https://visithendersonvillenc.org/"><em>https://visithendersonvillenc.org/</em></a></h3>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-78191632673371640492023-11-06T13:22:00.003-05:002024-01-12T10:45:19.853-05:00Texas Heritage Wines Deliver Distinctive Fall Flavors<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKSu5GPgI5B9TTsYsn_f35UG9LqwZ97UaX0sjhH_jmevYjp-IxOV76CgA7YyLvZRIZagLMXRgrBX5D5g09sDEeMso0N9tqjSps5_g6Q3YeR9CPsWISdarUr9MFCT3GQ73vALDVtb7bxOZQuzWvi26ADzCFPDelNJZDl4LwghLubVW9MRtKujAVvIvignw/s2592/PXL_20230930_162121055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKSu5GPgI5B9TTsYsn_f35UG9LqwZ97UaX0sjhH_jmevYjp-IxOV76CgA7YyLvZRIZagLMXRgrBX5D5g09sDEeMso0N9tqjSps5_g6Q3YeR9CPsWISdarUr9MFCT3GQ73vALDVtb7bxOZQuzWvi26ADzCFPDelNJZDl4LwghLubVW9MRtKujAVvIvignw/w365-h486/PXL_20230930_162121055.jpg" width="365" /></a></div><br />In the 1970s, the wine industry in Texas made a profound shift. Rather than chasing popular grapes unsuited for the Texas soil and climate, they began planting “grapes that love our state and thrive in our culture and climate,” as Texas Heritage Winery puts it.<p></p> <p>We had a chance to sample three wines from this outstanding Lone Star State winery and came away impressed. </p> <p>Viognier is a Rhone grape that has found a welcome home in Texas. It is the most-produced white grape in the state. The 2022 Wildseed Farms Viognier is delicate and crisp with notes of lemon and honeysuckle. At 11.7% ABV, it is perfect for pairing with seafood or light dishes with aromatic herbs. It is priced at $30.</p> <p>We paired the Viognier with a butternut squash bisque. The acidity of the wine cut through the creaminess of the soup for a delightful pairing.</p> <p>The 2020 Gotneaux Creek Vineyard Syrah is the only Syrah produced by Texas Heritage. It spends 30 months in neutral oak. “We don’t oak a lot,” says co-founder Susan Johnson. “The grapes are great enough to speak for themselves. We let the true character of the grapes shine through.”</p> <p>If you haven’t tried Texas Syrah, prepare yourself for a real surprise. This bottle is smooth and expressive. Some Syrah can be too big and brambly, but this is delicious with rich blueberry and plum notes. You get a nice dash of pepper on the long finish. SRP for this bottle is $42.</p> <p> </p><p>Alicante Bouschet is a large-cluster, thick-skinned grape that can be somewhat of a problem child. Thankfully, the 2019 vintage saw no difficulty in the vineyard and Texas Heritage produced this outstanding 2019 Estate Alicante Bouschet from the oldest part of their vineyard. It won Reserve Texas Class Champion at the 2022 Houston Rodeo Uncorked and Double Gold at the 2021 Harvest Terroir.</p> <p></p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Fz3astkL_N6KcigXPGo1yqxoXBd1GNZk0rzYivVOfazS3n307Kwi0rKYXQz-AnIflfYuDWhyphenhyphenrx8SmQTJD-W2oYghwXKGNV-BxopCkTar4wmz3oJ5QWpqbDIbJQCDchu7ST-HJb4ftOJA9pcMoxN1bS1txzVZinVWULIpJ7toNSRHmmZnJ-lLv23xIIg/s2750/Texas%20Heritage%20Wines.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1555" data-original-width="2750" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Fz3astkL_N6KcigXPGo1yqxoXBd1GNZk0rzYivVOfazS3n307Kwi0rKYXQz-AnIflfYuDWhyphenhyphenrx8SmQTJD-W2oYghwXKGNV-BxopCkTar4wmz3oJ5QWpqbDIbJQCDchu7ST-HJb4ftOJA9pcMoxN1bS1txzVZinVWULIpJ7toNSRHmmZnJ-lLv23xIIg/w517-h293/Texas%20Heritage%20Wines.png" width="517" /></a></div><p>Alicante is a true tenterer, a rare grape that has red flesh and red skin. This is a full-bodied wine that needs at least 45 minutes in the decanter to help tame it. It is fruit-forward with an incredibly deep and dark ruby color. There are floral notes and lush black cherry and currant flavors. This is a perfect sipping wine.</p> <p>We paired the reds with a wild boar and pasta entree and enjoyed a sunny and warm fall day on the patio. The Alicante Bouschet sells for $48. In fact, Texas Heritage specializes in producing really good wines at affordable prices. No bottle is more than $50.</p> <p>Texas Heritage wines are available online via their website. It’s a perfect introduction to the noteworthy wines of Texas.</p> <p><em>Full disclosure: These wines were received as a marketing sample.</em></p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-91813176196744394632023-09-25T19:04:00.001-04:002024-01-12T11:11:59.380-05:00South African Dinner Dazzles With Tasteful Dishes And Stark-Condé Wine<p><em><font size="5"></font></em></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiveQHHRn3BNIcuu8pHrdEXcwLdbrEMLx0EMn-exYcChu8HVXeavgeUX5JKSZWIOm5tEDLyA-j0VsPP0ghQH-MIhbbtIEfHWfinI2vQvOe9fPzQRh5fkZZd5hjUpM5e1OWDuRwN4aUoQIWj8go3slQE-zMJP7f24mhz3FH0aqKXi9HUOBt6EeJlLEILrr8/s2750/Stark-Cond%C3%A9%20%20South%20African%20Wines.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1555" data-original-width="2750" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiveQHHRn3BNIcuu8pHrdEXcwLdbrEMLx0EMn-exYcChu8HVXeavgeUX5JKSZWIOm5tEDLyA-j0VsPP0ghQH-MIhbbtIEfHWfinI2vQvOe9fPzQRh5fkZZd5hjUpM5e1OWDuRwN4aUoQIWj8go3slQE-zMJP7f24mhz3FH0aqKXi9HUOBt6EeJlLEILrr8/w540-h305/Stark-Cond%C3%A9%20%20South%20African%20Wines.png" width="540" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Stark-Condé South African Wines</i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><font size="5"></font></em></div><em><font size="5"><br /></font></em><div><em><font size="5">Wines from South Africa find the sweet spot between Old World winemaking techniques and New World flavors.</font></em><p></p> <h1><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhRf1f8GD3vZIFv6XYddd47h97CPilccDEw4DxZgaCGSAN0CP_THhvIse6uFQdym2kavvrlBAfoAbVvFI2a6eZyLyCL-9VUaJ3NsDdgl0SfpEVTYKr3YzNOJNqpXq15QOqbEQqrTEo9peWFL8H15SBHKbjTynt0eWfTQMB88Z9D9NEvnPt4Q2HtMn1OQc/s1182/Starke-Conde%20Syrah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1116" data-original-width="1182" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhRf1f8GD3vZIFv6XYddd47h97CPilccDEw4DxZgaCGSAN0CP_THhvIse6uFQdym2kavvrlBAfoAbVvFI2a6eZyLyCL-9VUaJ3NsDdgl0SfpEVTYKr3YzNOJNqpXq15QOqbEQqrTEo9peWFL8H15SBHKbjTynt0eWfTQMB88Z9D9NEvnPt4Q2HtMn1OQc/w409-h386/Starke-Conde%20Syrah.jpg" width="409" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div><i>Stark-Condé Syrah</i></div></td></tr></tbody></table>Diverse Roots<p></p> </h1> <p>When we were invited to sample a selection of South African wines from Stark-Condé. It was the perfect occasion to throw an aandete partytjie (dinner party) pairing these delicious bottles with elegant dishes.</p> <p><a href="https://twitter.com/vino_sphere"><strong><em>Follow us on Twitter – err, X</em></strong></a></p> <p>Stark-Condé is a family business that encompasses a story of diversity as well. </p> <p>South African patriarch Hans Schroder was raised in Stellenbosch. In the 1960s while attending university in Japan, Hans met and married fellow student Midori Maruyama. At the time, their marriage was illegal in Hans’ native South Africa due to the apartheid regime’s Prohibition of Mixed Marriages Act so the young couple settled in Japan. They remained in Tokyo for the next nearly three decades where they raised three daughters.</p> <p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU3-WhBpMhWL7FomtBIGr2xk3Pgxcadbx8-PoLtNqTwdhMEX1ob1pdgrzVtpW9N8wwX7wpX8eubXWAh2YmzBpKDtVkQklC4UUQBcR_XzDf_W76Q8I6E5tsLjFuhB3UrRTV7vYvdNl-Vll-RknaDi7BxCviY_7026QxYc23EqPoarUp4YKuk_WTV0KrvMk/s3650/South%20African%20Dinner%20and%20Scallop%20Entree.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3650" data-original-width="3500" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU3-WhBpMhWL7FomtBIGr2xk3Pgxcadbx8-PoLtNqTwdhMEX1ob1pdgrzVtpW9N8wwX7wpX8eubXWAh2YmzBpKDtVkQklC4UUQBcR_XzDf_W76Q8I6E5tsLjFuhB3UrRTV7vYvdNl-Vll-RknaDi7BxCviY_7026QxYc23EqPoarUp4YKuk_WTV0KrvMk/w411-h428/South%20African%20Dinner%20and%20Scallop%20Entree.png" width="411" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>South African dinner and scallop entree</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>In the late 1980s and with the changes on the horizon in South Africa, Hans and Midori decided it was time to return to his native country. They purchased the Oude Nektar farm in 1989 and focused on growing grapes. In 1998, eldest daughter Marie and her American husband José also relocated to South Africa to join the family – and the family business, where with an artisan’s attention to detail and a purist’s approach in the cellar, José slowly developed Stark-Condé’s wines.</p> <p></p> <p></p> <p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjvSIoHeqthproUekamkf-NK49aCkDLa9-vQaCDXzfrPlZl74Bb2uSQv53oVi5cSoOlvFNiYXGlE2NAXwvoNzVSSs8WvaNHEHEH4mbtoVSU9nrX8TGX5KKWlwEMfU7W-mdzMUFHX0O_V8T33uN20yVW7yG2WV0JEi5VkplUgaPLcnKswdbp0-RqsLEVuI/s4100/Gary%20and%20Diane%20and%20Bobotie.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4100" data-original-width="2435" height="537" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjvSIoHeqthproUekamkf-NK49aCkDLa9-vQaCDXzfrPlZl74Bb2uSQv53oVi5cSoOlvFNiYXGlE2NAXwvoNzVSSs8WvaNHEHEH4mbtoVSU9nrX8TGX5KKWlwEMfU7W-mdzMUFHX0O_V8T33uN20yVW7yG2WV0JEi5VkplUgaPLcnKswdbp0-RqsLEVuI/w319-h537/Gary%20and%20Diane%20and%20Bobotie.png" width="319" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Gary and Diane and Bobotie</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Today, Stark-Condé wines and the family of brands includes Stark-Condé, MAN Family Wines, Lievland Vineyards, Essay, and KaraTara. The range has something for everyone, from wine novice to lovers of classically styled wines.</p><p></p> <h1>Celebrating South African Wine</h1> <p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZQQqptB9ijCDPotbTGpjr_BO0JQv_muhFtdoV0foy9VTBxfk1FInx3kAwB09LyzjS8CwIf8UecccSw_x3gY6WV8Z8Yrq8gQac-EInZh3ICVFXHKlKsGI9gjWT7qsClkwgsZxaqOKJwaQg7Im6ACDX5q2l-BfE-WPpOS-CawHnNEaDLGdsP-TyA9ncgDs/s3825/Friends%20enjoying%20dinner%20and%20sosatie%20kabob.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3825" data-original-width="2700" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZQQqptB9ijCDPotbTGpjr_BO0JQv_muhFtdoV0foy9VTBxfk1FInx3kAwB09LyzjS8CwIf8UecccSw_x3gY6WV8Z8Yrq8gQac-EInZh3ICVFXHKlKsGI9gjWT7qsClkwgsZxaqOKJwaQg7Im6ACDX5q2l-BfE-WPpOS-CawHnNEaDLGdsP-TyA9ncgDs/w329-h466/Friends%20enjoying%20dinner%20and%20sosatie%20kabob.png" width="329" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Friends enjoying dinner and sosatie kabob</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br />To make a six-course meal possible, we enlisted the culinary expertise of our guests, inviting them to create a dish for an assigned wine. Our guests were Kyle and Natalie Hampton, Arthur and Mary Barham, Rob and Chris Rudloff, and Gary and Diane Wessell. Of course, this would not have been possible without the cooking and organizing of my wife, the Green Dragon.<p></p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJt-NnXCQWd20IgxuzsNyL7IJvYClfiuhYQ-X0ho0Hsr4JVS61dNs4UluSFIMTSDkprV-QMRJDXF6ZY4f36r7KBrTdH26mqdI_DHk7oATKONgskJhk1xN_NQHzf0uXKytVm0JcXcxOs4O5vfJh1ciWaykDYexLwhxkCkureL0klzLWVk96r-vyeML5iYg/s2350/PXL_20230826_160251283.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2350" data-original-width="1459" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJt-NnXCQWd20IgxuzsNyL7IJvYClfiuhYQ-X0ho0Hsr4JVS61dNs4UluSFIMTSDkprV-QMRJDXF6ZY4f36r7KBrTdH26mqdI_DHk7oATKONgskJhk1xN_NQHzf0uXKytVm0JcXcxOs4O5vfJh1ciWaykDYexLwhxkCkureL0klzLWVk96r-vyeML5iYg/w299-h480/PXL_20230826_160251283.jpg" width="299" /></a></div><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Keep up with the latest. Follow us on </strong></em></a><em><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Instagram!</strong></em></a></strong></em></p> <p>After a bit of bubbly, we uncorked our first SA wine: the 2021 Warrelwind Sauvignon Blanc, Western Cape, from MAN. Warrelwind is a whirlwind in Afrikaans, and this was a beauty, with an accent on herbaceousness and rich tropical notes. A nice accompaniment to the fresh Caprese Salad.</p> <p></p> <p> </p><h1>South African Chenin Blanc</h1> <p>Chenin Blanc is one of South Africa’s most well-known wines, and we featured two on our menu. The first was the 2021 Monk Stone Chenin, Jonkershoek Valley, Stellenbosch, from Stark-Condé. This is a complex wine aged in amphorae and second-use oak. It has lovely nectarine and apple flavors with notes of wet stone. The tasty leek and asparagus quiche was a perfect partner, not overpowering the delicate tastes of the wine.</p> <p></p> <p>The 2021 Essay (“S A” get it?) is a blend of Chenin Blanc, Roussanne, and Viognier from the Coastal Region. This wine is slightly off-dry with generous fruit and a palate of pineapple and guava. It is a dynamite food fine and glasses were refilled and the bottle emptied as we tasted the succulent seared scallops and shrimp served with oranges and rocket salad. At an SRP of $11.99, this is a steal.</p> <p>Bobotie is a South African casserole with minced beef at the bottom and a thin layer of egg custard on the top. Diane and Gary seasoned it to perfect. The KaraTara Pinot Noir was striking with the bobotie. I couldn’t imagine a better match. A touch of pepper is typical from Pinots in this area and it really worked with this dish. It also had classic cherry and strawberry notes.</p> <h1>Exploring South African Cuisine</h1> <p>Sosatie is a lamb kebab from South Africa with Cape Malay roots. Arthur whipped this up with three different sauces, including one with apricot. In the past, the only really good Pinotage I’ve had is what I tasted in South Africa. The Lievland Bushvine Pinotage from Paarl turned my preconception upside down. This was an elegant Pinotage with luscious raspberry and hints of oak and vanilla. It is a smooth and savory wine. SRP is $18.99.</p> <p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCb-4tmfHKRVsWn871_l0L33Xp5LARUdMfHEXMeZRCmuS1RXFGbkDoF6fnvp28U53rUy8FtcpheD59aKaf8ihbnr2kUO27-Bo7J07kPKuRSzCg9ny8gR5EVRhFo5UTTYTbGOrYE1DM_RGfR7Sywj8d5ROZfZytWDfglZ0BN5fomSSW7wVvEAYrj_oDgsY/s3825/Caprese%20Salad%20and%20rich%20dessert.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3825" data-original-width="3135" height="431" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCb-4tmfHKRVsWn871_l0L33Xp5LARUdMfHEXMeZRCmuS1RXFGbkDoF6fnvp28U53rUy8FtcpheD59aKaf8ihbnr2kUO27-Bo7J07kPKuRSzCg9ny8gR5EVRhFo5UTTYTbGOrYE1DM_RGfR7Sywj8d5ROZfZytWDfglZ0BN5fomSSW7wVvEAYrj_oDgsY/w353-h431/Caprese%20Salad%20and%20rich%20dessert.png" width="353" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Caprese salad and rich dessert</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Do they love dark chocolate in South Africa? We don’t know, but the Green Dragon decided that a Deep Dark Chocolate Cheesecake would be the ideal pairing with the 2018 Stark-Condé Syrah. She was right. The key to pairing with Syrah is to have dark or bittersweet chocolate desserts. Something sweet would be a recipe for disaster. This was a scrumptious highlight of the evening. The Syrah is one of the best I’ve tasted this year, rich with dark fruit and jammy currant. The tannins are silky smooth and there is a touch of savory mushroom on the close. </p> <p>Our guests were quite tickled with the fantastic food and wine feast, but we were not done. As we continued to savor the cheesecake, I opened a bottle of Amarula. Amarula is often shared during a South African braai, a gathering of friends and family around a wood-fired grill. The creme liqueur is made from the Marula fruit, which is the favorite food of African elephants. It is creamy with a fruity, toffee-like flavor.</p> <p>It was an evening to remember thanks to a culinary marriage of great food and exemplary South African wines.</p> <p><em>Full disclosure: These wines were received as a marketing sample</em>.</p></div>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-45530505969759126432023-08-30T12:01:00.001-04:002024-01-12T11:25:00.072-05:00Pick This Pair Of Affordable, Earth-Friendly Wines From Argentina<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3NzSnBf-CcWKWc-WTG6G_PosCR_oKPeNGPGC1F0X_4-pz1a6VsQQAMyR2SfxUcNLdw-oHq89KgDaWVdSU_zbQ0lF_HowqPivOUWEOiyMUAams79LIudmy0EHcfiyWvZdpcnEwgiWolLOghaxM_l0OWHfs0ZxkdI0pjoVJrvT0bc1mL6Eo-AONyH4HOM/s2091/PXL_20230727_175113787.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2091" data-original-width="1216" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3NzSnBf-CcWKWc-WTG6G_PosCR_oKPeNGPGC1F0X_4-pz1a6VsQQAMyR2SfxUcNLdw-oHq89KgDaWVdSU_zbQ0lF_HowqPivOUWEOiyMUAams79LIudmy0EHcfiyWvZdpcnEwgiWolLOghaxM_l0OWHfs0ZxkdI0pjoVJrvT0bc1mL6Eo-AONyH4HOM/w227-h390/PXL_20230727_175113787.jpg" width="227" /></a></div><br />Affordability, outstanding taste, and organic grapes – that combination is hard to beat when shopping for wine. When uncapping two releases from Art of Earth, we were transported back to Argentina and the delicious wines we tasted in Mendoza. They delivered that winning combination.<p></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Keep up with the latest. Follow us on </strong></em></a><em><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Instagram!</strong></em></a></strong></em></p> <p>Art of Earth is a collection of wines from the finest organic vineyards making wines within classic appellations. These wines are true to their origins and winemaking traditions without the use of pesticides or herbicides.</p> <p>The range includes wines from Argentina, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. The two we sampled were the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2022 Chardonnay, both from Mendoza.</p> <p>We opened the Cabernet for a dinner of grilled steak and sauteed vegetables on the patio. This was an eye-opener, with fresh fruit flavors bursting from the glass. There were luscious notes of ripe cherries and red currants. </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://twitter.com/vino_sphere"><strong><em>Follow us on Twitter – err, X</em></strong></a></p> <p>This isn’t a complex wine, but it is eminently satisfying. The tannins are soft and smooth with a long finish. This is a wine meant to be consumed while young. That’s probably a good idea with organic wines in general, as their shelf lives are shorter.</p> <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixTmjqF2tEBhkwqVNLgNNUURxs8-dc-z4LYOfIiANbZHwpmgguE_X_N6buK8XoCimtRaf4x2pFMP25Ka0hReLuLdTsxRyNCZcIBf2kRfOHr0eRIF2poSOx79zgSDfiLxedNS9Yn9B9Sqku5DT6vBj0ZDBHJQjFzdjxkL-4pTBD0_Rvh_BisdgM_AKV7I8/s2484/PXL_20230801_230532472.PORTRAIT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2484" data-original-width="1863" height="429" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixTmjqF2tEBhkwqVNLgNNUURxs8-dc-z4LYOfIiANbZHwpmgguE_X_N6buK8XoCimtRaf4x2pFMP25Ka0hReLuLdTsxRyNCZcIBf2kRfOHr0eRIF2poSOx79zgSDfiLxedNS9Yn9B9Sqku5DT6vBj0ZDBHJQjFzdjxkL-4pTBD0_Rvh_BisdgM_AKV7I8/w322-h429/PXL_20230801_230532472.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="322" /></a></div><br /><p>Both the Cab and the Chardonnay have an SRP of $11.99. That’s an excellent value.</p> <p></p> <p>We opened the Chardonnay while playing some games with friends. The group wanted some wine and I poured the Chardonnay. Little did I know what would happen next.</p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTzb_B4jAiKlwlH5Y2OfeWF_lx6iIwjOpdZb9Oa4qSLGjLfzCMP7cqqmFJUxJwjbTRaed3b_BI8cNkI8rLJjLvbq4ehqryUgzYlVui575mEg-Wm2kJIv9UgIryT7mdbydZOUwcuZ33-lUk5yA2K6AK0AqZ_15vr9C7SKfVs61BitEdceJacSYkXex631M/s2426/PXL_20230808_010502195-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1819" data-original-width="2426" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTzb_B4jAiKlwlH5Y2OfeWF_lx6iIwjOpdZb9Oa4qSLGjLfzCMP7cqqmFJUxJwjbTRaed3b_BI8cNkI8rLJjLvbq4ehqryUgzYlVui575mEg-Wm2kJIv9UgIryT7mdbydZOUwcuZ33-lUk5yA2K6AK0AqZ_15vr9C7SKfVs61BitEdceJacSYkXex631M/w441-h331/PXL_20230808_010502195-01.jpeg" width="441" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Chardy Party with Art of Earth Chardonnay</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Not only did the group like the Chardonnay, but a “ChardyParty” erupted with singing, dancing, and wine. They loved it.</p> <p></p> <p>This Chardonnay comes from an organic vineyard above 2,300 feet near the Andes Mountains, the snowmelt of which waters the vines. The crisp flavors are preserved by fermentation in steel tanks. There were bright notes of tropical fruits, pears, and citrus. There is a fullness thanks to malolactic fermentation.</p> <p>In addition to being organic, these wines are vegan – just another reason to add them to your shopping list. </p> <p><em>Full disclosure: These wines were received as a marketing sample.</em></p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-76848084479102061512023-08-22T15:40:00.001-04:002024-01-15T11:49:32.407-05:00Following the Surry County Wine Trail Yields Top North Carolina Wine Discoveries<p><font size="5"><em>North Carolina Is becoming a favorite destination for wine and culinary experiences. Join us as our travels explore Yadkin Valley and the outstanding wineries of the Surry County Wine Trail.</em></font></p> <h3 align="center">Round Peak Vineyards, Mt. Airy</h3> <p> </p><p><a href="https://www.roundpeak.com/" target="_blank">Round Peak Vineyards</a> is the northernmost winery in Yadkin Valley, North Carolina’s acclaimed wine country. Round Peak also holds another distinction as the first winery we visited in North Carolina.</p> <p></p> <p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Keep up with the latest. Follow us on </strong></em></a><em><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Instagram!</strong></em></a></strong></em></p> <p>We were scouting to find a new home and Round Peak was close to the interstate as we travelled to Raleigh. As we walked through the doors, we thought, “If all the wineries in the state are like this, it will be fantastic.” Panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains added to the experience.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJ7jFB6at-D11gwrFJXm0cW7drqPcZGTWGtwtSDQPP2fIbv3d2kS3NiWa1P0-g0VyCIY1iwEPbNDrn_6zto9m9UHTd43fEIzeJTwY-h70SVRuAk0eYtSXj1QuBqNsjovKaUwVgcbqWlgxv6iCG6XKlsSAa_wNWg7JAw7UzEY7A4GdDr0_ND3IHvzsDTg/s3000/Round%20Peak%20Vineyards.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2400" data-original-width="3000" height="389" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJ7jFB6at-D11gwrFJXm0cW7drqPcZGTWGtwtSDQPP2fIbv3d2kS3NiWa1P0-g0VyCIY1iwEPbNDrn_6zto9m9UHTd43fEIzeJTwY-h70SVRuAk0eYtSXj1QuBqNsjovKaUwVgcbqWlgxv6iCG6XKlsSAa_wNWg7JAw7UzEY7A4GdDr0_ND3IHvzsDTg/w486-h389/Round%20Peak%20Vineyards.png" width="486" /></a></div><p>Owners Ken Gulaian and Kari Heerdt strive to make the winery a relaxing retreat. Indeed, sitting on the covered porch and looking out at the manicured vines is quite a peaceful experience. It’s certainly a change for the couple, who were introduced to California wine country while working jobs in the Bay area. The pair bought the winery just off Interstate 77 west of Mount Airy in 2008.</p> <p>Today the winery produces estate wine from 12 acres of grapes and 13 grape varieties. Ken, led us through a tasting starting with the surprising Sparkling Elderflower wine. Eight hundred elderberry flowers were harvested from the vineyard, making the perfect summer quencher. It is a blend of 40% elderflower and 60% Vidal Blanc.</p> <p>Round Peak produces Vidal Blanc in three styles: dry, sweet, and sparkling. La Petite Vendange (little harvest) is the dry version and is crisp and fruity with luscious pear notes.</p> <p>Cabernet Sauvignon is a challenge for any North Carolina winery, so Round Peak focuses elsewhere. Ken is known for his Nebbiolo, an Italian grape that is grown by only one other winery in the state. The 2013 vintage is a tasteful experience, with leather, tar, sour cherry, and licorice notes. It is his signature wine.</p> <p>Round Peak does small lots of wine, often in the 28 to 75-case range. Changes are afoot in the vineyard. Coming soon will be the first harvest of Petit Manseng and Chardonel, a hybrid with Chardonnay attributes, which will be planted this year.</p> <p>After tasting the Petit Verdot and a robust Merlot, we closed with the 2019 Tannat. Tannat is the national grape of Uruguay but has soared in popularity in the Tar Heel State. The Round Peak Tannat is intense, with dark fruit flavors, pepper, and plentiful tannins.</p> <p>Round Peak has something for everyone. In addition to the wide range of wines, it is also home to Skull Camp Brewery (with a tasting room in Elkin too). There are two cabins overlooking the vines, plus a one-of-a-kind disc golf course going through the vineyard featuring baskets constructed from retired barrels and recycled bicycle wheels. </p> <h3 align="center"> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUrtEbhqRce5BbZHFVteI0GDMjHdfLGliYmCdfMElkVOqYoVHW4vnsLf2L1u7ZsS2hZlqxN1_TGn9lxiX8cLOFAIIB1ysrCSBTEMqsv8Y7WFON_hQmQAjB25JVpjr8pwxSt12nq9wbqFJTI-zHCZuemnk6NC71ZrnNKqrZmKdtakHxJWrMzpHSSA_r9O0/s2592/PXL_20230518_182341605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUrtEbhqRce5BbZHFVteI0GDMjHdfLGliYmCdfMElkVOqYoVHW4vnsLf2L1u7ZsS2hZlqxN1_TGn9lxiX8cLOFAIIB1ysrCSBTEMqsv8Y7WFON_hQmQAjB25JVpjr8pwxSt12nq9wbqFJTI-zHCZuemnk6NC71ZrnNKqrZmKdtakHxJWrMzpHSSA_r9O0/w372-h279/PXL_20230518_182341605.jpg" width="372" /></a></div><br />Wally’s Service Station and Mayberry Squad Car Tour, Mt. Airy<p></p> </h3> <p>Fans of the Andy Griffith Show may know Mt. Airy, Griffith’s childhood home, as the inspiration for TV’s town of Mayberry. Mt. Airy fully embraced it with the Andy Griffith Museum, Floyd’s Barbershop, Aunt Bea’s restaurant, and Snappy Lunch. Griffith’s grade school is now the Andy Griffith Playhouse. His childhood home is an attraction that’s available for nightly rentals.</p> <p><a href="https://twitter.com/vino_sphere"><strong><em>Follow us on Twitter – err, X</em></strong></a></p> <p><a href="https://www.wallysinmayberry.com/" target="_blank">Wally’s Service Station</a> is a popular attraction, an original service station built in 1937 and operated as a Gulf Station and then later as a Standard Oil Station or Esso. It has old-fashioned candy, bottled drinks, and a wonderful variety of unique gifts and souvenirs.</p> <p>Nearby are the Mayberry Courthouse and Otis' Jail Cell and other replicas of the set of the show. The big attraction is the <a href="https://www.tourmayberry.com/" target="_blank">Squad Car Tour</a>. The cost is $50 per car-load (we had three) and the tour with our knowledgeable guide was fun and memorable. He covered highlights of Mt. Airy (incorporated in 1885) and Andy Griffith as we tooled around in a vintage 1965 Ford Galaxie.</p> <p>A surprise highlight was a mammoth granite quarry located east of town. It is the world’s largest open-faced granite quarry and produces what many consider the purest, densest, and most white granite available. The site covers 60 acres and has enough granite for at least another 500 years.</p> <h3 align="center">Stony Knoll Vineyards, Dobson</h3> <p><a href="https://www.stonyknollvineyards.com/" target="_blank">Stony Knoll Vineyards</a> has a family history that is six generations long. It didn’t begin with the fine wine and grapes produced today, but rather in 1896 when Joseph Coe purchased a tract of land in Surry County. In the 1940s the land was cleared with hand tools and cultivation began. The cash crop then was tobacco and remained so until the late 1980s when a switch was made to hay and cattle.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR0IprxPP4SHw9L0lcPYVU8O1-ShPODxmYdyap_Dg7ZByiFuoTan_q7Ry6IR-U9LY1I3xHqNt8IOuUzb1_NEpQnTcS5BFT-ESzJqQqiKFFtv1FCgvAe_IOT3oo8yHwlET3BvBADhQdUGVZ-Hl_iss4QH-ozykw9xWNdVyV6upGPv3H9be0y_AtM2ErbPY/s1080/Stony%20Knoll%20Vineyard.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR0IprxPP4SHw9L0lcPYVU8O1-ShPODxmYdyap_Dg7ZByiFuoTan_q7Ry6IR-U9LY1I3xHqNt8IOuUzb1_NEpQnTcS5BFT-ESzJqQqiKFFtv1FCgvAe_IOT3oo8yHwlET3BvBADhQdUGVZ-Hl_iss4QH-ozykw9xWNdVyV6upGPv3H9be0y_AtM2ErbPY/w444-h444/Stony%20Knoll%20Vineyard.png" width="444" /></a></div><p>In the late 1990s, Van Coe had a vision of changing to a new crop to preserve the family farm and way of life. Grapes were planted in 2001 and the tasting room opened in 2004. Today Stony Knoll grows nine grape varieties on 10 acres.</p> <p></p> <p>When Van decided to step back from running the day-to-day operation, son-in-law Jonah Hoosier stepped in to keep the family-led operation rolling. He certainly has the touch. The 2022 Viognier grabbed the 2023 NC Fine Wines Best in Show and Double Gold.</p> <p>“Viognier is a finicky grape,” said Hoosier. “There was a lot of uncertainty about the vintage. In the 2021 season, there was frost damage causing some vines to be replaced. In 2022 there were heavy rains in July and August, threatening to disrupt the timing of harvest. The results were unexpectedly good. The wine has a soft aroma of floral notes. On the palate, it has delicious light pear, grapefruit, and honeysuckle – an all-around winner!</p> <p>The portfolio of reds includes some tasty selections. The 2018 Cabernet Franc flows with black cherry and chocolate flavors. This medium-bodied wine finishes with velvety tannins.</p> <p>A special treat for red wine lovers is the Master Exquisite Black Oak Stick reserve line which includes Chambourcin, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a Bordeaux-style blend. The Black Oak moniker came about when an oak stave was found floating in the wine barrel. The flavor was distinctive so the practice has continued.</p> <p>The 2014 MEBOS Cabernet BVC Parts is an equal blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. This notable wine has a silky mouthfeel and integrated tannins. There are rich fruit flavors of blackberry, black cherry, and vanilla.</p> <p>Stony Knoll has Old World winemaking and hospitality. Soon you can expect to see wines from Corot Noir and Arandelle vines planted in 2020.</p> <h3 align="center">JOLO Winery and Vineyards, Pilot Mountain</h3> <p>Nestled in the shadows of North Carolina’s iconic Pilot Mountain stands another landmark. <a href="https://www.jolovineyards.com/" target="_blank">JOLO Winery</a> has established itself as one of North Carolina’s premier wineries – and one that is garnering national acclaim.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwnwbCaDKXWCoZSYHi2q3pxlGGTMe8ZOGdeH3zyNFLrEIOuunp5WZzKj0EP5nKqESVAQ_mQoQsKDoAS9iT70Y5DtFs0ZIMlz8Qz8O5kODTJnK31N94fPKDL1Sv0iXBBI_7q57SQ6RCuQoysANN85epEai1zPpoKrOU9g8Te3qRbltfH4zWvVDHG-ORdwM/s1080/JOLO%20Winery.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwnwbCaDKXWCoZSYHi2q3pxlGGTMe8ZOGdeH3zyNFLrEIOuunp5WZzKj0EP5nKqESVAQ_mQoQsKDoAS9iT70Y5DtFs0ZIMlz8Qz8O5kODTJnK31N94fPKDL1Sv0iXBBI_7q57SQ6RCuQoysANN85epEai1zPpoKrOU9g8Te3qRbltfH4zWvVDHG-ORdwM/w468-h468/JOLO%20Winery.png" width="468" /></a></div><p>At this year’s Rosé Competition, judges selected 2022 JOLO Pink as the best of show, outshining more than 150 other wines. Judge Sunny Fraser remarked, “When a wine from North Carolina is the Best in Show, it is reminiscent of a Judgment of Paris moment. There are no preconceived ideas in a blind tasting; you’re just judging what’s in the glass.”</p> <p></p> <p>JOLO Pink is primarily Chambourcin, with smaller amounts of Vidal Blanc, Sangiovese, Zinfandel, and Traminette. It has lip-smacking flavors of strawberry candy and watermelon. This is a perfect match for goat cheese.</p> <p>The allure of JOLO is readily apparent. The estate showcases the natural beauty of the foothills with stunning views of Pilot Mountain. JOLO has wonderful grounds and a tasting lodge to tickle the fancy of any wine lover. The estate is a wine and food experience, with on-site restaurant End Posts being one of Winston-Salem’s top-rated Open Table dining establishments.</p> <p>The wines range from refreshing, fruit-forward whites to powerful, award-winning reds. JOLO also stands out from many wineries for its use of French hybrids and lesser-known grapes. Chambourcin, Vidal Blanc, and Traminette are featured alongside better-known Bordeaux varieties. JOLO also features Cynthiana (also known as Norton) prominently. It is used in one of my favorite wines, Pilot Fog.</p> <p>JOLOTAGE is the winery’s most famed wine. The 2022 vintage blends 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17.5% Chambourcin, 15% Cabernet Franc, 10.5% Merlot, and 2% Petit Verdot. Aged in French and American oak, it has a smooth and mellow body with fine tannins and blueberry and vanilla notes. It’s a bargain at $42.</p> <p>JOLOTAGE Reserve is a blend of the 2020 and 2021 vintages, which receive extended aging. There are more extracted flavors with dark fruit flavors of blackberry and pie crust.</p> <p>There are plenty of high-end bottles to explore with Pilot Shadow, Cuvee Selection, Carolus XII, and Devil’s Hill.</p> <p>A wonderland for wine lovers, JOLO should be in your plans for your next trip. Its wines are also available online in 38 states.</p> <p><a href="https://www.yadkinvalleync.com/?gad=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwuZGnBhD1ARIsACxbAViacYqjdInOohR_GxrjzxDGE83toX7UomCiUfKEF0rP87zANm0-cHIaAkqKEALw_wcB" target="_blank">Yadkin Valley</a> and the Surry County Wine Trail offer friendly people, picturesque scenery, and wine that is elevating North Carolina’s reputation nationwide. <font size="4"><a href="http://www.vino-sphere.com/2023/06/surry-county-wine-trail-highlights.html" target="_blank">To read the first part of this article, click here</a></font>.</p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-78526578311493034972023-08-07T12:49:00.001-04:002024-01-15T11:55:14.723-05:00Two French Rosé Wines Perfect For A Sultry Summer<p><em></em></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK5ERAPfGaOkfYCcQWq3Y_1aDzlRWxJPh21nfdg7a-lbHsSpF1OCy9mmbVZA-lwALnBV2M7cHGdt7UidVxU6WTaSLJfe_4OMVkSb-Sr2xFU_LMlOIIhMu6BwsWa_Cw4xSU-tGmqn60wuhA9FdUlrEKgxnlcilaolSQ5DvM9EeZokwcGc73OEoDMSV4qGs/s3750/Hampton%20Water%20and%20Campuget%20Ros%C3%A9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2100" data-original-width="3750" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK5ERAPfGaOkfYCcQWq3Y_1aDzlRWxJPh21nfdg7a-lbHsSpF1OCy9mmbVZA-lwALnBV2M7cHGdt7UidVxU6WTaSLJfe_4OMVkSb-Sr2xFU_LMlOIIhMu6BwsWa_Cw4xSU-tGmqn60wuhA9FdUlrEKgxnlcilaolSQ5DvM9EeZokwcGc73OEoDMSV4qGs/w566-h317/Hampton%20Water%20and%20Campuget%20Ros%C3%A9.png" width="566" /></a></em></div><em><br />When the heat is so intense that the pavement melts and people who fall on the sidewalk are burned, you know it’s next-level hot. Don’t even get me started on Phoenix! Our number one survival tip is to sip a nicely chilled bottle of French rosé. We present to you two excellent choices, widely available and at cool prices.</em><p></p> <h3>Hampton Water 2022 Rosé, Languedoc</h3> <p>Hampton Water 2022 is the fifth vintage for this wine with a rock-star pedigree. Jesse Bongiovi, son of legendary rocker Jon Bon Jovi is the man who along with his partner Ali Thomas created Hampton Water, a brand that has garnered considerable buzz. Being rock ‘n roll royalty doesn’t necessarily mean you’re a master winemaker.</p> <p><a href="https://twitter.com/vino_sphere"><strong><em>Follow us on Twitter – err, X</em></strong></a></p> <p>Fear not. Hampton Water is produced by Gerard Bertrand, a wine maestro with several vineyards in the South of France and an acclaimed winemaker. </p> <h4><font style="font-weight: normal;">Grenache, Cinsault, Mourvèdre, and a touch of Syrah blend delightfully in this wine from Languedoc. Languedoc is one of my favorite regions for reasonably priced quality French wines. The wine is fresh with a good balance between fruit and acid. It gets a short spell in new French oak, which adds a unique texture to the wine. Melon, strawberries, and a nice dollop of minerality.</font></h4> <p>The average price of Hampton Water is $19, making it very easy for you to dive in!</p> <h3> </h3> <h3>Campuget 2022 Tradition Rosé, IGP Gard</h3> <p>I was in quite a dilemma. My wife was hosting a girls-only mimosa brunch and I was cruelly cast out into the blazing heat. I wandered aimlessly (although in my nicely air-conditioned car) for a while. Then I texted my wine amigo Arthur. I was checking in on a potential date for our next wine tasting.</p> <p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Keep up with the latest. Follow us on </strong></em></a><em><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Instagram!</strong></em></a></strong></em></p> <p>Arthur usually visits North Carolina wineries during the weekends, but as luck would have it, he was home and invited me over for a glass of wine. Salvation was at hand.</p> <p>We often enjoy wine on the deck when Arthur hosts the winetasting. Not today. The sun’s rays were like laser beams roasting anything daring to venture outside. Arthur poured a glass of Campuget Tradition rosé as his wife Mary joined us in the living room.</p> <p>This wine comes from the Mediterranean coast of France. The Gard IGP covers well-known rosé-producing regions Costières de Nîmes, Tavel, and Lirac. </p> <p>Syrah (70%) and Grenache (30%) make up the blend, which is light and fresh pink in the glass. It is highly aromatic with notes of peach leading into flavors of raspberry and strawberry. This refreshing wine is completely vegan – using no animal products and fining is done with vegetable proteins and mineral products.</p> <p>The average price of Campuget Tradition Rosé is about $13, a smashing value for this great wine.</p> <p><em>Full disclosure: One of these wines was received as a marketing sample.</em></p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-63943347579758611322023-07-27T17:35:00.002-04:002024-01-15T12:07:43.180-05:00The Best Wine Is Wine Shared With Friends<p><font size="5"><em><br />Tasting Features Sparkling Wine and California Reds</em></font></p> <h1><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRO3_n1L_gefF2Mq1r6bNQGvz5TjNewg_tS0b0AR7Hosc1_PMSpu8GGgjRFR8sQAh_CDZZMcG3bNLfBnI4PLshRT8gVLQzRe-oMG6mMPPW1g3s21hDxbF7qZqEAjnTIfb_cET96mgH7Rj9FXSoY7Rwv6YDdoN6F82VH7O1-v8ABKqjLU0CsfUXkBKmIbE/s1235/Wine%20tasting%20starts%20with%20Champagne.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1195" data-original-width="1235" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRO3_n1L_gefF2Mq1r6bNQGvz5TjNewg_tS0b0AR7Hosc1_PMSpu8GGgjRFR8sQAh_CDZZMcG3bNLfBnI4PLshRT8gVLQzRe-oMG6mMPPW1g3s21hDxbF7qZqEAjnTIfb_cET96mgH7Rj9FXSoY7Rwv6YDdoN6F82VH7O1-v8ABKqjLU0CsfUXkBKmIbE/w357-h346/Wine%20tasting%20starts%20with%20Champagne.png" width="357" /></a></div>A Grand Tasting With Wines From France, California, and Italy</h1> <p>When friends gather, it’s time to break out the good stuff. Over the recent years, as we’ve encountered a few bumps on life’s highway, I’ve come to appreciate even more the pleasures of good wine shared in the company of first-class friends.</p> <p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Keep up with the latest. Follow us on </strong></em></a><em><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Instagram!</strong></em></a></strong></em></p> <p>And so when we traveled to Ohio for a family visit, it was time to connect with good friends Steve, Tracey, and Maria. Steve and Tracey (Cabernetor and Glorious T!) hosted a wine dinner that was perfect in all regards.</p> <p>Our evening started as every evening should – with sparkling wine. The bottle of choice was the Gilles & Romain’s Collet Crémant from Burgundy. This is a brut sparkling wine made from 100% Chardonnay. Elegant, with an aroma of citrus and pepper, it was full of creaminess – a perfect fizz to start the evening.</p> <h1><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">French Crémant Gets The Crowd Bubbling</span></div></h1> <p>After a bit of hobnobbing, we were ready for dinner. The crowd enjoyed the bubbly so much that Green Dragon (my wife) demanded more. Steve’s cellar has depth, and he soon emerged with another Crémant, Faire La Fête. The wine is from Limoux, the birthplace of French sparkling wine. Faire La Fête means “to party” or live it up. Good selection! Faire La Fête is a blend of Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and Pinot Noir. It’s a beauty with pear and white blossom notes with the requisite creamy bubbles. This is one of the best sparkling wine values out there with a price of about $21.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjioit-NlVy9-JWUgyg-6hyIwQRyzViXq44uuBbC-6upnykvgktxbpaZ0oAv7ou5cX7AdjXvlZrlNsn_44Mxcg2y0nFi7RwIYxEUXMTQvQMRA2qRnbd3ZXTm3BZN-mq-uaN82adl9xVLtnY4FRDNqcGFmrCduaEjHHuIN7EAtMA2DQ6jrv-0XeT883v6QY/s3750/French%20Cr%C3%A9mant%20made%20the%20traditional%20way.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2100" data-original-width="3750" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjioit-NlVy9-JWUgyg-6hyIwQRyzViXq44uuBbC-6upnykvgktxbpaZ0oAv7ou5cX7AdjXvlZrlNsn_44Mxcg2y0nFi7RwIYxEUXMTQvQMRA2qRnbd3ZXTm3BZN-mq-uaN82adl9xVLtnY4FRDNqcGFmrCduaEjHHuIN7EAtMA2DQ6jrv-0XeT883v6QY/w466-h261/French%20Cr%C3%A9mant%20made%20the%20traditional%20way.png" width="466" /></a></div><p><br /></p> <p> </p><h1>Masterful Wines From Beringer Vineyards Plus Brunello </h1> <p>When the entrée arrived the reds rolled out. I had brought a 2014 Beringer Quantum, a rich dark Cabernet blend. The four of us (alas Maria wasn't along) had visited Beringer Vineyards years ago on a dark and stormy night during a trip to Napa and Sonoma. We enjoyed our meal and conversation while sipping the Quantum (dark fruit, plum, earthiness, and oak). I hoped the bottle would stir memories of that wine adventure.</p> <p><a href="https://twitter.com/vino_sphere"><strong><em>Follow us on Twitter – err, X</em></strong></a></p> <p>Steve pulled a surprise out of his hat, as he quickly grabbed a bottle of beautifully aged 2012 Beringer Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Both reds were aerated via the Wine Breather, which always provides a pleasing show.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZKHIMZT20_xaD9io4d_jlp_waEx3NgbflXyRLeUdar5_wwSS-UEr5wJ5mCfr0iVuiINnnLW71k1Vejt5-c3_uDKJcIJRmbDYbmsiVWQO1B5lH01eryOahJiF52cq923LB3ngDTpsXkLn-6S5YFum-6PecJzrymOj_n0ZKl4zkPqnbFwK-eMbR5QE31c/s3900/Beringer%20wines%20and%20a%20Brunello%20di%20Montalcino.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3900" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZKHIMZT20_xaD9io4d_jlp_waEx3NgbflXyRLeUdar5_wwSS-UEr5wJ5mCfr0iVuiINnnLW71k1Vejt5-c3_uDKJcIJRmbDYbmsiVWQO1B5lH01eryOahJiF52cq923LB3ngDTpsXkLn-6S5YFum-6PecJzrymOj_n0ZKl4zkPqnbFwK-eMbR5QE31c/w532-h273/Beringer%20wines%20and%20a%20Brunello%20di%20Montalcino.png" width="532" /></a></div><p>I was frankly surprised by how well the 2012 Beringer was drinking more than 10 years on. It was soft and silky with raspberry, spice, and black cherry rocking the flavor. Founded in 1876, Beringer Vineyards is the oldest continuously operating winery in the Napa Valley. They also offer wines in a variety of quality levels with prices from $20 to $400.</p><p>Fortified by numerous glasses of wine, I decided it was time to unleash a furious ping-pong attack on Steve. This can only be done after he has several glasses of red wine. Since I had also consumed several glasses, I lost my advantage. It was good table tennis with no declared winner. We headed upstairs.</p> <p>It was time to enjoy the starry Ohio night on the patio. The 2012 Rodolfo Cosimi “Terra Rossa” Brunello di Montalcino. In the late 1800s, it was determined that Brunello and Sangiovese were the same grape. Today it is one of Italy’s best-known and most expensive wines.</p> <p>Sour cherry, baking spice, and blackberry jam highlighted this 100% Sangiovese beauty. We sipped away and slipped away into old memories and new tales as the night wound down.</p><p></p><p></p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-54406267067971653532023-07-12T16:24:00.002-04:002024-01-15T12:15:30.924-05:00Adelaida Wines Trumpet Paso Robles Excellence<p><font size="5"><em></em></font></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLWEWPpy-lnTu6HNMtnyJi_TEnkgckXsmxWlRq-4qUlDC-KkKAsficrK-dWHxYubCrlzrPGTo75YuHzzUZM2eR7oF_zsjkfbBI0FQO5_30pkDc7oooaDnMMtjrPIMtNFaHQSZOUM_O6fkUjXkUHdeeG-5tqW0_xKi6qft6C1GT44oy0DhbgS0ugSO7HFs/s2592/PXL_20230527_183900405.PORTRAIT.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLWEWPpy-lnTu6HNMtnyJi_TEnkgckXsmxWlRq-4qUlDC-KkKAsficrK-dWHxYubCrlzrPGTo75YuHzzUZM2eR7oF_zsjkfbBI0FQO5_30pkDc7oooaDnMMtjrPIMtNFaHQSZOUM_O6fkUjXkUHdeeG-5tqW0_xKi6qft6C1GT44oy0DhbgS0ugSO7HFs/w309-h412/PXL_20230527_183900405.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="309" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Adelaida Vineyard Wines from Paso Robles</i></td></tr></tbody></table><font size="5"><em>The Paso Robles AVA is among California’s largest. It is also the fastest growing. Here are three recommended Paso bottles.</em></font><p></p> <p>Adelaida Vineyards & Winery is located in the mountainous terrain of the Paso Robles AVA in California. Its vineyards span distinct areas of mountainous terrain characterized by chalk-rock limestone soils, afternoon blasts of cool coastal air, and a daily 40 to 50-degree temperature swing. </p> <p>Only about 10% of Adelaida’s 1,900 acres are planted with vines, and more than 1000 acres of land remain undeveloped and unfenced, for ecological and wild animal habitat. The winery farms organically and is a leader in the ecology movement. All of the estate’s energy needs come from its own solar farm.</p> <p>The microclimates, elevation, and unique soil result in superb wines, as we discovered as we recently tasted a trio of new Adelaida releases.</p> <h4><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDhEDGdjKo2cLiTicZQOBwnqztYy4Cthzs8aJsJqi84G3UK6a7ulSinNF96z5HR7Q4lKBd-2eQrAHnibsmNjnh4C5b7xyynQVKbcpmZUDQJzGodPK3ZzOCdpA_NNAwJWtYODo6Hdkm5GMRdFb2fagpakPuISdE-h-l75092cRW9C1kq16__n_yk3RRnKI/s2592/PXL_20230614_010109239.PORTRAIT.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDhEDGdjKo2cLiTicZQOBwnqztYy4Cthzs8aJsJqi84G3UK6a7ulSinNF96z5HR7Q4lKBd-2eQrAHnibsmNjnh4C5b7xyynQVKbcpmZUDQJzGodPK3ZzOCdpA_NNAwJWtYODo6Hdkm5GMRdFb2fagpakPuISdE-h-l75092cRW9C1kq16__n_yk3RRnKI/s320/PXL_20230614_010109239.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />2022 Rosé, Anna’s Estate Vineyard<p></p> </h4> <p>In the glass, this single-vineyard rosé is a brilliant salmon color with the aromas of fresh strawberries and melon. There is a pleasing minerality that mingles with strawberry rhubarb and citrus zest. It is crisp and decidedly easy to drink. </p><p>The blend is 34% Mourvèdre, 33% Grenache, 17% Counoise, and 16% Cinsaut. The wine was aged in equal amounts of neutral oak barrels and concrete eggs for four months. SRP is $35.</p> <p></p> <h4>2020 Anna’s Red, Anna’s Estate Vineyard</h4> <p>One sip of Anna’s Red, and my reaction was, “Wow!” This is everything we look for in a red blend: deep rich flavors, supple mouthfeel, and an enduring finish. This is a blend of 32% Grenache, 24% Syrah, 17% Counoise, 14% Mourvèdre, 7% Cinsaut, 3% Petite Sirah, 3% Touriga Nacional. Grenache plays the leading role and contributes soft raspberry flavors, Syrah and Mourvèdre add weight and texture while Counoise and Cinsault lend a spicy character.</p> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTsgk0zRCf5LUhGDHT5m0E7h8Zfe12YHUOfg1EVyFrh2eaa1u-HoRp_biLpTXZ01cgAW0DAT2f2hHHpSS0tGA_XL2ud4VDzcaTNX63cbadroAFATHc_cqH5tSDTwYTu4c7tlDHqP9R1CQJYunOybvAnjzRioPJJ34iFYjGXsbjY_XRyICaFpXRGxjMKpU/s2592/PXL_20230529_000356486.PORTRAIT.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTsgk0zRCf5LUhGDHT5m0E7h8Zfe12YHUOfg1EVyFrh2eaa1u-HoRp_biLpTXZ01cgAW0DAT2f2hHHpSS0tGA_XL2ud4VDzcaTNX63cbadroAFATHc_cqH5tSDTwYTu4c7tlDHqP9R1CQJYunOybvAnjzRioPJJ34iFYjGXsbjY_XRyICaFpXRGxjMKpU/s320/PXL_20230529_000356486.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Anna's Red is a beautiful Paso Robles blend</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>It has a soft mouthfeel but is full-bodied. This is a blend that changes composition from year to year. Anna’s Red gets 20 months of aging in French oak (18% new). Priced at $50, we highly recommend it.</p> <p></p> <h4>2020 Syrah, Anna’s Estate Vineyard</h4> <p>Paso Robles excels at Rhone varieties and this Syrah is a shining example. Almost black in the glass, it is rich with rounded blackberry, cocoa, and dark cherry notes. Baking spice and tobacco add to the long, layered finish.</p> <p>This is a full-bodied wine to be enjoyed anytime. Beef and lamb entrees will pair perfectly. SRP is $50.</p> <p>Adelaida produces bold and beautiful wines. Their full selection is available online including some sourced from the historic HMR vineyard.</p> <p><em>Full disclosure: These wines were received as marketing samples.</em></p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-52245424211783246432023-06-26T16:29:00.002-04:002024-01-15T12:23:12.502-05:00Surry County Wine Trail Highlights North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley Wine<p align="center"><strong></strong></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Qd72kf6SmdFKrE9JI33ZTVpFpynADgidkMTi93aMB2AqvmjvQgQHSjoHoqkBxqW9Wx7fAKWdrAVOwrUC3m9dyHdWr-nzeI6hbh8r8eCjWTseBUCSn8EiNVQOM11uPQYgqnYBaVQ8c1YeAIpLKcc1-tx6NR23S171EgAOxb7xFGygEVTsZPLCPBycgPs/s1920/Round%20Peak%20Chardonnay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Qd72kf6SmdFKrE9JI33ZTVpFpynADgidkMTi93aMB2AqvmjvQgQHSjoHoqkBxqW9Wx7fAKWdrAVOwrUC3m9dyHdWr-nzeI6hbh8r8eCjWTseBUCSn8EiNVQOM11uPQYgqnYBaVQ8c1YeAIpLKcc1-tx6NR23S171EgAOxb7xFGygEVTsZPLCPBycgPs/w427-h320/Round%20Peak%20Chardonnay.jpg" width="427" /></a></strong></div><strong><br />By Dave Nershi, CSW</strong> <p></p> <p><font size="5"><em>Part one of our journey in the heart of North Carolina’s wine country.</em></font></p> <p>It’s a state of majestic mountains, scenic seashores, and lush pine forests. It’s also one of the top wine-producing states. No, we’re not talking about California, but rather North Carolina. North Carolina has approximately 200 wineries and 400 vineyards, ranking number 11 in state production of wine.</p> <p>Not long after English settlers landed at Roanoke Island in present-day North Carolina, the grapevine was first cultivated in the New World. Wine growers in North Carolina cultivated a native grape variety, Scuppernong, which produces a sweet wine. Winemaking flourished. In fact, by the dawn of the 20th century, North Carolina was the leading wine-producing region in the nation.</p> <p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Keep up with the latest. Follow us on </strong></em></a><em><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Instagram!</strong></em></a></strong></em></p> <p>Prohibition changed all that, with the state becoming better known for moonshine and those moonshine runners helped to start the NASCAR sport. Now North Carolina wine is back in a big way. The heart of North Carolina Wine Country is Yadkin Valley. It recently experienced what some have called a “Judgement of Paris” moment for the Yadkin Valley when JOLO winery recently won “Best Rosé on the Planet” at The 10th Annual Rosé Competition.</p> <p>JOLO is part of the <a href="https://www.yadkinvalleync.com/guides/surry-county-wine-trail/">Surry County Wine Trail</a> in Yadkin Valley which includes 18 wineries in and around Surry County. The trail flows through the towns of Dobson, Elkin, Mount Airy, and Pilot Mountain. Surry County could be considered the birthplace of North Carolina wine. Charlie and Ed Shelton of Shelton Vineyards in Dobson oversaw the effort to get the Yadkin Valley its official status as a federally recognized American Viticultural Area in 2003. It was North Carolina's first AVA. An area formerly known for tobacco farming; Yadkin Valley is now celebrated as a premier wine-producing area with over 40 wineries. </p> <p>During a recent visit, we toured seven wineries that are part of the Surry County Wine Trail. We came away impressed with the quality and variety of the wine. Here’s the first half of our report.</p> <h3 align="center"><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjupey4HQiJmXBFfwoT95gXyhpzLoQp-az1RvxLyzpJBls8he0QXN2dM4QguSLfEXdjPTspZ1XQKPj_UBWfrZ2FmzeISC7y7uSxYOvRrWNd8RAARpvn3PTMVCHHuTZsxYIlK7EdAH_YpaSLRiC2c6qwC4KrpZ9aoLCjMb0fReI9CHR3SXFBMbdxdbNKq50/s2000/NC%20Center%20for%20Viticulture%20&%20Enology.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjupey4HQiJmXBFfwoT95gXyhpzLoQp-az1RvxLyzpJBls8he0QXN2dM4QguSLfEXdjPTspZ1XQKPj_UBWfrZ2FmzeISC7y7uSxYOvRrWNd8RAARpvn3PTMVCHHuTZsxYIlK7EdAH_YpaSLRiC2c6qwC4KrpZ9aoLCjMb0fReI9CHR3SXFBMbdxdbNKq50/w526-h420/NC%20Center%20for%20Viticulture%20&%20Enology.png" width="526" /></a></div><br />NC Center for Viticulture and Enology at Surry Community College<p></p> </h3> <p>Nothing demonstrates North Carolina’s commitment to producing premium wine more than the <a href="https://ncviticulturecenter.surry.edu/">Shelton-Badgett NC Center for Viticulture and Enology</a>. The center, located at Surry Community College in Dobson, was completed in 2009 and features a state-of-the-art commercial winery. Courses offered are targeted to those interested in becoming winery managers, tasting room managers, vineyard managers, winemakers, and wine marketers.</p> <p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/vinosphere1/"><em><strong>Never Miss A Beat – Follow Vino-Sphere On Facebook</strong></em></a></p> <p>Program Assistant Matthew Wilson provided a tour of Surry Cellars and its vineyard. Since the center receives many donations, they are blessed with an array of winemaking equipment that would be the envy of many in-state wineries. Surry Cellars produces a sought-after traditional method sparkling wine, Lot 154, made with 70% Petit Manseng, 20% Chardonnay, and 10% Traminette.</p> <p>The program provides authentic hands-on experience including planting and tending the vineyard, making and bottling the wine, and marketing the final product. Even the eye-catching Surry Cellars label was designed by a student. </p> <p>I’m a fan of Surry Cellar’s Barrel Fermented Chardonnay and their Chambourcin. Their Chambo is a Chambourcin that is made in a natural wine style. Kudzu flowers are used to isolate yeast used in its natural fermentation. Hard to believe that pesky kudzu can be used to produce such a beautiful wine, rich with raspberry and plum flavors and a touch of spice. </p> <p>Chambo is part of the Surry Labs label produced by Surry Cellars. Surry Labs allows students to test ideas and winemaking methods in low-production runs. The Chambo is made with the malolactic fermentation and micro-oxygenation was used with French oak chips. This process gives the wine the character of more than a year of barrel aging in only two months.</p> <p>There are eleven grape varieties in the vineyard including Petit Verdot, Tannat, Albariño, Traminette, Chardonnay, and Chardonel. Muscadine grapes will be added as part of a vineyard redevelopment project over the next two years.</p> <p><em>Favorite Wine: 2022 “Chambo” Chambourcin</em></p> <h3 align="center"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuTBa1o4I8D_yKrrBVKQnj2uhXS45eUMNikL2ue_2yha9iYGTfloQ_e_kbreqT1GxkmqxHB7eca_9GI0dR542rOeo7DFnVD7QTXn4C0uc6bkG5ALMizKpqo0WTnishQSY128TCylZGr2vld745pZ3QUY_nruT9uEcvJD8IzupZQnYnrgnZURcTe7rm5w4/s2592/PXL_20230517_162945306.PORTRAIT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuTBa1o4I8D_yKrrBVKQnj2uhXS45eUMNikL2ue_2yha9iYGTfloQ_e_kbreqT1GxkmqxHB7eca_9GI0dR542rOeo7DFnVD7QTXn4C0uc6bkG5ALMizKpqo0WTnishQSY128TCylZGr2vld745pZ3QUY_nruT9uEcvJD8IzupZQnYnrgnZURcTe7rm5w4/s320/PXL_20230517_162945306.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Surry’s Famous Ground Steak Sandwich</h3> <p>Before our next winery visit, we stopped for lunch at the Central Café in Dobson. The café is just the sort of place to enjoy a great homestyle meal. We got that plus a nice surprise. Dobson tourism coordinator Travis Frye introduced us to a historic treat: the ground steak sandwich.</p> <p>Ground steak is a tasty variation of the hamburger with its origin in the Great Depression when local cooks devised a way to stretch the amount of food that could be made from a pound of ground beef or ground chuck.</p> <p>Don’t confuse this with a sloppy joe, which is spicier and typically has ketchup or Worcestershire sauce. Ground steak can also be served on thick bread or entrée-style on a plate without the bun. Some restaurants in the area have been serving this favorite for more than 50 years. Each has its special recipe. The beef can be browned or boiled, spices include salt and pepper and in some cases hot sauce, was or milk is used to get the perfect consistency.</p> <p>My sandwich was melt-in-your-mouth good. Explore this heritage food on the <a href="https://groundsteaktrail.org/">Surry Ground Steak Trail</a> which includes 11 restaurants in Mt. Airy, Pilot Mountain, Dobson, and Elkin that serve this treat on their everyday menu.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAao2b0hoxWGYs6Zmmtnr48odAsJOE346wnt9sIkX9NHg7q36UjJJWXaSUf3U6cbzPGNj4vCP4mmdWTXJXkAmVBQ1J9Xj6bKMyyVzJbgscYBth-3j1t3Hqa4sp0I5a9fUn5BTdofhp411sxTn317lhc2DPH7V57CiQ-xPdpUJmpmNWKFabvqOzsKEaUIA/s2000/Jones%20von%20Drehle.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2000" height="385" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAao2b0hoxWGYs6Zmmtnr48odAsJOE346wnt9sIkX9NHg7q36UjJJWXaSUf3U6cbzPGNj4vCP4mmdWTXJXkAmVBQ1J9Xj6bKMyyVzJbgscYBth-3j1t3Hqa4sp0I5a9fUn5BTdofhp411sxTn317lhc2DPH7V57CiQ-xPdpUJmpmNWKFabvqOzsKEaUIA/w481-h385/Jones%20von%20Drehle.png" width="481" /></a></div><br /><h3 align="center"><span style="text-align: left;">Jones von Drehle</span></h3> <p> </p><p><a href="https://www.jonesvondrehle.com/">Jones von Drehle</a> is a 130-acre estate winery and, according to co-founder Chuck Jones, everything about it is a fluke. In 2007 while driving through Yadkin Valley after his daughter’s soccer game, they passed a beautiful pasture and he exclaimed to his wife (and co-founder) Diana that this hillside would be perfect for a vineyard. Continuing to drive slowly past the property they spotted a ‘for sale” sign. Two weeks later they bought the land.</p> <p></p> <p>Another case of serendipity is the lovely Jones von Drehle 2022 Estate Viognier. When Chuck was looking to plant the vineyard, he wanted to plant Albariño but the nursery didn’t have any vines. Instead, he planted Viognier. It would be hard for Albariño to surpass the wonderful Viognier. The 2022 vintage has a floral aroma leading to lush peach flavors and a soft finish.</p> <p>Chuck describes growing grapes and making wine as a “slow-motion game.” Indeed, the winery is known for its long aging of wine. On the tasting menu are a 2017 Cabernet Franc and a reserve Cabernet Sauvignon from 2015.</p> <p>The wines are fruit-focused, from the rich cherry and plum notes of the 2015 Merlot to the 2020 Petit Manseng, a white with bold flavors of stone fruit and balanced crispness. Also crisp and delightful is the 2021 Blanc de Blanc, a gorgeous sparkling wine from Chardonnay made in the time-consuming traditional method.</p> <p>Jones von Drehle offers a summer concert series in their scenic amphitheater and music follows you throughout your visit to the winery. In the tasting room and on the grounds music is featured from groups that have performed at the winery.</p> <p><em>Favorite wine: 2018 Steel & Stone, a blend of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon</em></p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI-7qgvY2h5vLECbwb6wmkWjT7Ppf5drODb0ogh3JlLaq9w5tOHsp0-EpxzDJ5HawBAG2s0evmtCFRFFpuJWz_x6uEvGT8OcadvJeidGSuzMVARPq0YXYjx8JNtOAGQ-H7-Gl7fyogrEob_Rj59yd3xCTJ1AgkAfDS_udqAI7oA7J0sIf2Nx4b0VGg6FE/s1080/Serre%20Vineyards.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI-7qgvY2h5vLECbwb6wmkWjT7Ppf5drODb0ogh3JlLaq9w5tOHsp0-EpxzDJ5HawBAG2s0evmtCFRFFpuJWz_x6uEvGT8OcadvJeidGSuzMVARPq0YXYjx8JNtOAGQ-H7-Gl7fyogrEob_Rj59yd3xCTJ1AgkAfDS_udqAI7oA7J0sIf2Nx4b0VGg6FE/w450-h450/Serre%20Vineyards.png" width="450" /></a></div><br /><h3 align="center"><p>Serre Vineyards</p> </h3> <p>At the end of Beast Trail in Mt. Airy lies not a haunted house, but a winery boasting scenic views and flavorful wines. <a href="https://www.serrevineyards.com/">Serre Vineyards</a> is the passion project of Christian Krobisch and Melissa Hayes. The husband and wife team chose the name “Serre” which is pronounced like “share” and means greenhouse in French. </p> <p>Serre opened in September 2020 and so at this point, the grapes and winemaking come from outside sources, specifically Round Peak and Childress wineries. The vines are now in the ground for the estate vineyard and as they bear fruit, the winery will transition to its own grapes.</p> <p>The property is 70 acres of farmland at more than 1,300 feet in elevation with a stellar view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The 3,000-square-foot tasting room is open and airy. It’s built in the modern farmhouse style with European accents. </p> <p>The best spot to enjoy Serre is outside from the comfort of an Adirondack chair taking in the view of the mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Cumberland Knob. With a glass of wine in your hand, of course.</p> <p>“Flavor is why we’re in the business,” said Melissa. The wines we sampled certainly lived up to that billing. The 2022 Rêvasser, a carbonated Vidal Blanc, is the quintessential pick for a sultry summer day. The name is French for daydream, it’s crisp, bubbly, and bright.</p> <p>New since our last visit is the 2019 Port Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine is aged for 17 months in Port barrels, which conveys depth and a delectable sweetness not normally found in a North Carolina Cabernet. The 2019 “The Blend” is a Super Tuscan-style bottle that charmingly blends Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Montepulciano. </p> <p><em>Favorite wine: 2019 The Blend, a Super Tuscan blend</em></p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNXJau9ty3B9jrHOBbdgLACGybprFCo-EHn-IrMXXwpeokUIPD1VWPgI20limh0HF-awp7R8qe_oSt92JFl0SmbwoNK6iKGjtsn4yfdVjLUEIt9TCtM__WGCv7i3zfKOrTdsteNnnNxkpuGo6D2xUNUxCmswZtewpRe80wcr68Oa7WbVwNucHnXb94dPU/s1000/Harvest%20Grill%20at%20Shelton%20Vineyards%20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNXJau9ty3B9jrHOBbdgLACGybprFCo-EHn-IrMXXwpeokUIPD1VWPgI20limh0HF-awp7R8qe_oSt92JFl0SmbwoNK6iKGjtsn4yfdVjLUEIt9TCtM__WGCv7i3zfKOrTdsteNnnNxkpuGo6D2xUNUxCmswZtewpRe80wcr68Oa7WbVwNucHnXb94dPU/w485-h364/Harvest%20Grill%20at%20Shelton%20Vineyards%20.png" width="485" /></a></div><br /><h3 align="center"><span style="text-align: left;">Shelton Vineyards</span></h3> <p> </p><p>Our first full day in Yadkin Valley was capped with a visit to <a href="https://www.sheltonvineyards.com/">Shelton Vineyards</a> and their celebrated restaurant <a href="https://www.sheltonvineyards.com/harvest-grill">Harvest Grill</a>. Shelton, with a 400-acre estate and one of the largest vineyards on the East Coast, is a leader in North Carolina wine.</p> <p></p> <p>We’ve been to Shelton on several occasions but this was a remarkable evening. Executive Chef Mark Thrower prepared an assortment of mouth-watering small plates based on the restaurant menu to accompany our wine selections. We savored the dishes in a prime location in the restaurant as we watched dusk fall on the vineyard and grounds.</p> <p>In a creative twist on shrimp and grits, our first course was Shrimp & Middlins. Middlins are the broken and smaller pieces of rice from the hulling process. The dish was jumbo shrimp, wild boar sausage, blistered grape tomatoes, butter and spring onions on creamy Carolina Gold Rice “grits.” This was paired with the 2021 Sauvignon Blanc. The wine’s tropical fruit notes and light acidity were a pleasing pairing.</p> <p>The strawberry bibb salad featured goat cheese from a local farm and aeroponically-grown lettuce. Aeroponics is the technique of growing plants without soil, quite a trick. This summery dish was matched with the 2021 Two-Five-Nine Dry Rosé, which has flowing strawberry and citrus flavors.</p> <p>The Two Five Nine Tannat was paired with seared duck breast and blackberry-Malbec reduction. This Tannat recently received top honors in a tasting of Tannat from around the world conducted by sommelier and friend merlot2muscadine. </p> <p>Big entrées call for big wines and so 2017 Two Five Nine Franklin was paired with the center-cut filet mignon. This was served with duck fat cipollini onion and cremini mushroom confit, scratch bordelaise, parsley truffle butter, and roasted fingerlings. Wow! </p> <p>This limited reserve wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Tannat. The Tannat provides the heft for this wine which features dark fruit, chocolate, and leather. This is a substantial and beautiful wine.</p> <p>Shelton is a shining example of North Carolina wine, fine food, and hospitality.</p> <p><em>Favorite wine: 2017 Two Five Nine Franklin</em></p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-45079003211108537672023-06-05T07:09:00.001-04:002024-01-15T12:31:19.036-05:00Dry Creek Vineyard 2021 DCV Block 10 Chardonnay, Russian River Valley<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBwUahkHWlZVF-6aSX_C8fK6cphlBfOS8Y9ttYJROKGTRQuGf7IRuCpmUfU6I3Uywf3kzEV6x9w1_m2diaNsiIMdAIZcEz0WD2jcjxnQz3Fz133Yh3F89hKxn8LaEGZuKsKqpVCr4xEqDyo-qnve2IkHzx7oAk8chYYk03B3CXpsDjrz2Glufx4Exy5I/s2592/PXL_20230424_170637603.PORTRAIT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBwUahkHWlZVF-6aSX_C8fK6cphlBfOS8Y9ttYJROKGTRQuGf7IRuCpmUfU6I3Uywf3kzEV6x9w1_m2diaNsiIMdAIZcEz0WD2jcjxnQz3Fz133Yh3F89hKxn8LaEGZuKsKqpVCr4xEqDyo-qnve2IkHzx7oAk8chYYk03B3CXpsDjrz2Glufx4Exy5I/w390-h520/PXL_20230424_170637603.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="390" /></a></div>You may not be familiar with Dry Creek Vineyard Chardonnay. If that’s the case, here’s what you’re missing.<p></p> <p>Dry Creek Vineyard championed Loire Valley-style wines in Sonoma’s Dry Creek Valley. Their excellence, however, extends to Chardonnay. A prime example is the latest release of the DCV Block 10 Chardonnay.</p> <p>All 185 acres of estate vineyards are certified sustainable. DCV Block 10 in Russian River Valley has an ideal microclimate for growing Chardonnay. The moderate temperature and fog from the Pacific Ocean keep the grapes protected from the harsh sun and allow the grapes to ripen evenly and slowly. The DCV Block 10 Chardonnay is crafted from just 30 rows in the northeast corner of the vineyard.</p> <p>One thing I have always appreciated about Dry Creek Vineyard is its judicious use of oak aging. They don’t cover up the flavors of the wine with excess oak. That is the case here.</p> <p>The wine is 88% barrel fermented with the remainder fermenting in stainless steel. The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation for the most part (88%). Barrel aging is in French oak, 26% new.</p> <p>On the nose, there is an immediate rush of tropical notes, including pineapple and some peach. On the palate, there is pear and mango mixed with some light oak. The oak contributes spicy notes without overwhelming the bright and harmonious flavors. This is a perfect Chardonnay for me, light enough to enjoy on its own or pair with a meal without bogging down with oaky, buttery notes.</p> <p>This is drinking well now and can age for up to three years. This is a beautiful dinner companion or a wine for weekend entertaining. SRP is $45.</p> <p>Full disclosure: This wine was received as a marketing sample.</p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-33522440954170923012023-05-27T14:27:00.001-04:002024-01-15T12:43:57.348-05:00Nysa Wines Offer A Glimpse of Willamette Valley Greatness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLy9Db3Da6XiX988ti9g21SZ58d0vBWBQ5PTpMoXvo3SntIgOquC6M4arH7qTT9ReqqN6yfI5ui0FqIk5jk2Cn-aQAXJwqGdgqHdnFcgcY3fshQgmEOL4AuK3BB6cT1Zha5aFZ-a5gscl6XwSxhiR3AKpY7VWqThBaB_k1KRY-ZiG8zXAlOp2jfs7QBoE/s2414/PXL_20230422_233024925.PORTRAIT~2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2414" data-original-width="1810" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLy9Db3Da6XiX988ti9g21SZ58d0vBWBQ5PTpMoXvo3SntIgOquC6M4arH7qTT9ReqqN6yfI5ui0FqIk5jk2Cn-aQAXJwqGdgqHdnFcgcY3fshQgmEOL4AuK3BB6cT1Zha5aFZ-a5gscl6XwSxhiR3AKpY7VWqThBaB_k1KRY-ZiG8zXAlOp2jfs7QBoE/w319-h425/PXL_20230422_233024925.PORTRAIT~2.jpg" width="319" /></a></div><p><em style="font-size: x-large;">Dundee Hills is the epicenter of Oregon Pinot Noir. Now we know why.</em></p> <p>In Greek mythology, Nysa is a secret land full of lush fruit trees and vineyards where young Dionysus, the god of wine was raised. The forces emanating from Mount Nysa are said to be powerful. We found ourselves falling under the spell of three new wines from Nysa – actually from Nysa Vineyard, the Willamette Valley winery in the Dundee Hills.</p> <p></p> <p>The family-owned operation was begun in 1990 when owner and winemaker, Michael Mega purchased a parcel of orchards high with the goal of creating a world-class Pinot Noir. The goal creating wines of complexity, concentration, and balance while using minimalistic winemaking techniques and organic farming.</p> <p>The grapes are grown at 600 to 720 feet elevation. Nysa case production is under 1,000, but that may soon change as wines will soon be available outside Oregon in shops across the US in such wine-loving states as California, Texas, New York, North and South Carolina, and Illinois. </p> <p>We had the opportunity to taste the 2019 Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and the 2016 Pinot Noir, all from Dundee Hills. Dundee Hills is where Oregon Pinot Noir first gained its worldwide reputation. Early pioneers such as David Lett of Eyrie, Dick Erath, and the Sokol Blossers planted many of Oregon’s first vineyards. </p> <p>To taste the Chardonnay and 2016 Pinot, we planned a special dinner, an amazing meal with Duck Breast l'Orange entrée. Duck is a perfect pairing with Pinot Noir, whose fruity notes play perfectly with the rich dark meat. I wasn't sure about Chardonnay. </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaI3Ohvf8XirYf7sEexFNF0WoH_lhyKKYFebK3Bzj8qz2TGMmO01e4c3CPukArbNqi6FmZ32oguQdfMCUGfqVrIXPFEcWKlnisguuDufDGCjgGK3RN4Dw_7ttA-EI4FWLyghhah0nWqZ1DlpK85qfCruqwN96Zt4jaqwvT0-cyrwESDr-QZVh4rkMRocE/s1984/PXL_20230422_173429025.PORTRAIT~2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="1984" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaI3Ohvf8XirYf7sEexFNF0WoH_lhyKKYFebK3Bzj8qz2TGMmO01e4c3CPukArbNqi6FmZ32oguQdfMCUGfqVrIXPFEcWKlnisguuDufDGCjgGK3RN4Dw_7ttA-EI4FWLyghhah0nWqZ1DlpK85qfCruqwN96Zt4jaqwvT0-cyrwESDr-QZVh4rkMRocE/w383-h376/PXL_20230422_173429025.PORTRAIT~2.jpg" width="383" /></a></div><p>The Chardonnay uses grapes from the Nysa estate block of Wente clone vines. This wine went through malolactic fermentation and then spent 10 months in neutral French oak barrels. We discovered that this Willamette Valley Chard with beautiful tropical fruit notes and a taste of honey worked wonderfully with the duck, asparagus, and mushroom risotto. </p> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQwfV_bDJN4EdOlmUIo3ciiwK5hEvo_VZEj_KxvYwVV5DKI6_B72qKD-yK4FpyguRlqY9OM9dIWh560HwLVDfiV6eXT6-bRLQqe_VdXIUXwwZ1EUZ2Bgw19WHsHe71gNNU5nfnyfXFXW8rNtxDaT0xLQjnbS5FbQ57rK5N9Fa32N_K5W_mO4Yc001g2Wk/s2592/PXL_20230422_225739038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQwfV_bDJN4EdOlmUIo3ciiwK5hEvo_VZEj_KxvYwVV5DKI6_B72qKD-yK4FpyguRlqY9OM9dIWh560HwLVDfiV6eXT6-bRLQqe_VdXIUXwwZ1EUZ2Bgw19WHsHe71gNNU5nfnyfXFXW8rNtxDaT0xLQjnbS5FbQ57rK5N9Fa32N_K5W_mO4Yc001g2Wk/w321-h428/PXL_20230422_225739038.jpg" width="321" /></a></div><br />The 2016 Nysa is an amazing Pinot. It is a blend of different vineyard blocks throughout the estate. The grapes were fermented in small lot bins before aging in French oak (25% new). Light garnet in the glass with the perfect touch of acidity, delicate layers of red fruit, dry herbs, leather, and nuanced earth tones show through. This was an ideal pairing and just an exceptional wine. <p></p> <p></p> <p>We got a look at the younger 2019 Nysa Pinot. On the palate, there are beautiful smooth red cherries a touch of baking spices, and a touch of minerality. Tasty now, we expect this vintage to rock after another two or three years of aging. </p> <p>Nysa Pinot Noir ranges from $75 to $105, and Chardonnay starts at $65, all depending on the vintage.</p> <p><em>Full disclosure: These wines were received as marketing samples.</em></p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-12757498978100884442023-05-04T14:54:00.001-04:002024-01-17T09:11:14.881-05:00Virginia Petit Wines Offer Glimpse Of Old Dominion Wine Excellence<p><font size="5"><em><font size="5"><em></em></font></em></font></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font size="5"><em><font size="5"><em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijYKZZaymCK0ZqT_K5hV45CZ4gicUQz_OosUDzTy8WYSSN-JzrO9T769GxAoFKwyQm6VuhrTlgMG33ks0a31AWqIdGO1mcrY2O1jhtlRTbbg307Lqn5TaydMizvUQVtIJuXDvj9MxFbimsK-7Lh2uFvi6b-gNbJxQ2lnUzsY6B1PTX2UV60OqSQ-zeA4c/s1850/PXL_20230412_225255721~2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1273" data-original-width="1850" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijYKZZaymCK0ZqT_K5hV45CZ4gicUQz_OosUDzTy8WYSSN-JzrO9T769GxAoFKwyQm6VuhrTlgMG33ks0a31AWqIdGO1mcrY2O1jhtlRTbbg307Lqn5TaydMizvUQVtIJuXDvj9MxFbimsK-7Lh2uFvi6b-gNbJxQ2lnUzsY6B1PTX2UV60OqSQ-zeA4c/w503-h346/PXL_20230412_225255721~2.jpg" width="503" /></a></em></font></em></font></div><font size="5"><em><font size="5"><em><br />Petit Verdot and Petit Manseng showcase Virginia’s award-winning winemaking. </em></font></em></font><p></p> <h1>Four Hundred Years of Winegrowing History</h1> <p>Virginia may seem like an uncommon choice for wine lovers. Not if you’ve had a chance to taste its delicious wines that blend the subtlety of the Old World with the boldness of the new. </p> <p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Keep up with the latest. Follow us on </strong></em></a><em><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Instagram!</strong></em></a></strong></em></p> <p>The state boasts more than 5,000 acres of grapes and has a history that dates back to 1619 when the House of Burgesses passed a law requiring each household to plant 10 grape vines for the purpose of making wine.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLAowj__L-E4yKDDMop6cJFvf6x_ZiIpvI06vcNLwxsZuiUNHaA-pXrMtRyW1AGrElfFMNzbrkUzRBPP56yC_r_VQqPzwEyr9NWu9vnHbYNhJQV4bX0SRzAvela1BDptucNJzzFdxjY7_XJIJy1MxBhqkeCG_89MMNlZddCweEdbGoThBw5PvW76-hXU/s2387/PXL_20230411_222658279~2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2387" data-original-width="1790" height="469" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLAowj__L-E4yKDDMop6cJFvf6x_ZiIpvI06vcNLwxsZuiUNHaA-pXrMtRyW1AGrElfFMNzbrkUzRBPP56yC_r_VQqPzwEyr9NWu9vnHbYNhJQV4bX0SRzAvela1BDptucNJzzFdxjY7_XJIJy1MxBhqkeCG_89MMNlZddCweEdbGoThBw5PvW76-hXU/w352-h469/PXL_20230411_222658279~2.jpg" width="352" /></a></div><p>Founding father Thomas Jefferson experimented with winemaking and in 1873 a Virginia wine was chosen as the Best Red Wine of All Nations at the Vienna World’s Fair. The wine industry struggled through Prohibition and world wars and in 1979 there were just six wineries in operation. Thankfully for us, wine in Virginia is thriving today.</p> <p></p> <p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/vinosphere1/"><em><strong></strong></em></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXLlOssV0hETPZjzKTaoqHJgLycP5CCXn17alxJLZm3BsE6kcZmoaituYTUrzWs2Ml-QRw9aQF_m2p7Je2i5nAxrDw9A2Md8uZ8iVec8cifaHDDujwySglL4uSAmOGvErunqSBkdpILPLRCcznR8uvMBfLpsucEOMzEGteEc1LhqLq8KnRma_WgznIavc/s2592/PXL_20230412_224134113.PORTRAIT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXLlOssV0hETPZjzKTaoqHJgLycP5CCXn17alxJLZm3BsE6kcZmoaituYTUrzWs2Ml-QRw9aQF_m2p7Je2i5nAxrDw9A2Md8uZ8iVec8cifaHDDujwySglL4uSAmOGvErunqSBkdpILPLRCcznR8uvMBfLpsucEOMzEGteEc1LhqLq8KnRma_WgznIavc/w318-h424/PXL_20230412_224134113.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="318" /></a></strong></em></div><em><strong><br />Never Miss A Beat – Follow Vino-Sphere On Facebook</strong></em><p></p> <p>There are currently more than 300 wineries in Virginia and the quality is better than ever. We recently uncorked bottles from two award-winning Virginia wineries, Jefferson Vineyards, and Veritas Winery, in conjunction with a webinar by the <a href="https://www.ifwtwa.org/">International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association</a>.</p> <h1>Jefferson Vineyards 2021 Petit Manseng</h1> <p>The site of Jefferson Vineyards was owned by Thomas Jefferson and was later given to Italian viticulturist Filippo Mazzei who formed the Virginia Wine Company. Unfortunately, the vines were later trampled by the horses of a Hessian General during the American Revolution, ruining the labor of four years. In the 1980s vineyards were reestablished and in 1993 the business name was changed to Jefferson Vineyards. Jefferson is recognized for having one of the region’s most consistent records for producing quality wines.</p> <p>We decided to taste the 2021 Jefferson Petite Manseng with Ricotta Gnudi with Quick Tomato Confit & Fresh Corn. This is a recipe created by Haidar Karoum specifically for Virginia Petit Manseng. I’m told by one of my Italian tennis buddies that the dish is pronounced like “naughty.” This was one of the very best culinary creations we’ve tasted in a while.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP1TmUk4mJ1hMebo8zjRwClCooFBIPlk3o_sjg6wulPXwCSDHhpMSX4BT-5CJsXCvrDeGMXsYrNkm-bGKFcGFY3_awu0waIApMWh4FAkiq_a5l8AGP9UI8aikwXNpDhOnuB8sVs4iRT0Tixi04YVp8TdZ56RJBPjTGDkNSy3FBrgb7gOPznyBUARtf1Gg/s1821/Veritas%20Petit%20Verdot%20and%20Lamb%20Chop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1821" data-original-width="1440" height="511" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP1TmUk4mJ1hMebo8zjRwClCooFBIPlk3o_sjg6wulPXwCSDHhpMSX4BT-5CJsXCvrDeGMXsYrNkm-bGKFcGFY3_awu0waIApMWh4FAkiq_a5l8AGP9UI8aikwXNpDhOnuB8sVs4iRT0Tixi04YVp8TdZ56RJBPjTGDkNSy3FBrgb7gOPznyBUARtf1Gg/w404-h511/Veritas%20Petit%20Verdot%20and%20Lamb%20Chop.jpg" width="404" /></a></div><p>It was a perfect match for the Petit Manseng. The wine offers notes of smooth pineapple, white peaches, and honeysuckle. It blended nicely with the ricotta dumplings and cherry tomatoes. The Petite Manseng has no jarring acidity, just a gorgeous, luscious finish.</p> <p></p> <h1>Veritas 2017 Petit Verdot</h1> <p>For the Veritas 2017 Petit Verdot, we prepared hearty Herb & Garlic Marinated Lamb Chops with Pine Nut Couscous and Broccoli Rabe. My first experience with a single varietal Petit Verdot was many years ago at Flying Fox, a Virginia winery with a family connection to Veritas winemaker Emily Pelton. Although you are more likely to encounter Petit Verdot as a blending ingredient in a Bordeaux-style wine, on its own it shines as a luscious wine.</p> <p>A 20-year-old family business, Veritas is on the leading edge of the Virginia wine industry. With over 50 acres in the Monticello wine region, it produces a complex portfolio of wines ranging from sparkling to beautifully balanced red wines.</p> <p>The Veritas Petit Verdot exudes generous black fruit notes of currant and blackberry whilst smooth tannins and a touch of tobacco create a posh finish. This wine includes 15% Merlot and is aged in 50% new French oak for 16 months. </p> <p><em>Full disclosure: These wines were received as part of an educational program.</em></p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-78427869792961277652023-04-21T14:32:00.001-04:002024-01-17T09:16:29.542-05:00Wines For Animal Lovers: Sipping These Great Values Benefits Four-Legged Friends<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8L9eviu2aa8w6_ykd5od20nAKsdTed5Vn7UADfU0cJeYWaMde6mBOidvojIiQUuZdZI6BosNRFgcFh1Lv8u_7NVN9zPCsN-lswaH7wtL7sZyfTiLJju06vbpP5h5JFnkZsd-FK0mjRZO9vneAJlw6cr7oAMNkxqzai0p7gi-2ipLFL1KASiijq206uqE/s2750/Firesteed%20and%20Bar%20Dog%20Wines.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1555" data-original-width="2750" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8L9eviu2aa8w6_ykd5od20nAKsdTed5Vn7UADfU0cJeYWaMde6mBOidvojIiQUuZdZI6BosNRFgcFh1Lv8u_7NVN9zPCsN-lswaH7wtL7sZyfTiLJju06vbpP5h5JFnkZsd-FK0mjRZO9vneAJlw6cr7oAMNkxqzai0p7gi-2ipLFL1KASiijq206uqE/w563-h319/Firesteed%20and%20Bar%20Dog%20Wines.png" width="563" /></a></div><br /><p><em style="font-size: x-large;">We love California Cab and Oregon Pinot Noir, especially when they support charities that help animals.</em></p> <p>Time was when an upstart wine from Australia planted a picture of a kangaroo on its label and conquered the American wine market. After the success of Yellowtail, many animal labels emerged: birds, bears, cows, mice, and pigs. Animals can make an attractive label, but it is what is inside that is the primary attraction for me.</p> <p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/vinosphere1/"><em><strong>Never Miss A Beat – Follow Vino-Sphere On Facebook</strong></em></a></p> <p>We recently popped open two wines with an animal theme but with a difference. The labels aren’t simply to draw in the curious, but to celebrate their commitment to helping four-legged friends.</p> <h3 align="center">Firesteed 2021 Pinot Noir, Oregon</h3> <p>Firesteed winery in Oregon’s Willamette Valley produces an array of Pinot Noir and other wines like Pinot Gris and Riesling. It also has some AVA-specific Pinot Noirs, that highlight select vineyards in Willamette. They also offer a wallet-friendly Oregon Pinot Noir from several sites around the state.</p> <p>We opened this 2021 Pinot Noir and immediately found a satisfying wine that delivered a great Oregon Pinot experience. The price is a mere $17 and for that, it was surprising to taste cherry notes with a healthy earthiness. Toast and spice round out a silky palate.</p> <p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Keep up with the latest. Follow us on </strong></em></a><em><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Instagram!</strong></em></a></strong></em></p> <p>Not only does Firesteed deliver a great QPR (quality price ratio), but a portion of each sale benefits our animal friends. The winery has partnered with Dreamer Horses Colorado,which provides boarding for retired horses on a 100-acre pasture on a family cattle ranch. Firesteed also contributes to the support of retired horses as they live out their best lives surrounded by fresh grass, sunshine, and equine friends.</p> <h3 align="center">Bar Dog 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, California</h3> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-DNhnQRvBkjp9VSS7jBppPj6Tv9jbfi53_SZjo0CYusX0nLNnLTXgQdZ2YYndu6E6UgtDYJ3spQxKjZ11e_AJwrK4KPpc49TlpkttmG52G4CwX3lmRRaQoiEokcg7HPUr50xhiClPdDz8Qkhv3Nhu_NXQOZQ8zZYWlmqZo1P_Kec8HRDnnR7kBeZoxXg/s1567/Bar%20Dog%20Cabernet%20with%20Blue%20Cheese%20Burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1567" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-DNhnQRvBkjp9VSS7jBppPj6Tv9jbfi53_SZjo0CYusX0nLNnLTXgQdZ2YYndu6E6UgtDYJ3spQxKjZ11e_AJwrK4KPpc49TlpkttmG52G4CwX3lmRRaQoiEokcg7HPUr50xhiClPdDz8Qkhv3Nhu_NXQOZQ8zZYWlmqZo1P_Kec8HRDnnR7kBeZoxXg/w440-h404/Bar%20Dog%20Cabernet%20with%20Blue%20Cheese%20Burger.jpg" width="440" /></a></div><br />Bar Dog’s Cabernet Sauvignon from the statewide California AVA is a smooth drinking Cab we paired with grilled blue cheese burgers and sweet potato fries. The inspiration for the wine’s name comes from wine creator Terry Wheatley who has a Boston Terrier on her Central California ranch. The dog is a constant companion, like my dog Amber who is laying patiently a few feet away from me while I write this post.<p></p> <p>The wine is a delicious everyday drinker. There are no complex layers but at a price point of about $12, it is what you expect it to be: a loyal, friendly, and tasty friend. The expressive flavors of black cherry, cocoa, and vanilla provide plenty of satisfaction right now. There are no heavy tannins and no need to age this wine, which we would suggest should be consumed within three years.</p> <p>The Bar Dog certainly elevated our burgers-on-the-patio dinner. The winery also takes its commitment to animals beyond the bottle label. For the love of dogs and all they bring to our lives, Bar Dog wines has committed to supporting rescue shelters across North America in partnership with the Petfinder Foundation. The Petfinder Foundation awards grants funded by Bar Dog wines to shelters, helping them provide pet food, supplies, and veterinary treatment for dogs awaiting adoption.</p> <p><em>Full Disclosure: These wines were received as a marketing sample.</em></p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-31525378898649414842023-04-18T10:49:00.001-04:002024-01-17T09:34:23.581-05:00WIYG: A Review Of Our Recent Sips And Pours<p><em><font size="5">WIYG? That’s a question we are often asked. Here’s a look at what's in our glass. </font></em></p><p><em></em></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2g6otIEl6T83n7IbqfsOsCiddykxBzzkvI9AURvf4NYZ1p6BS5SMDsq1BcNM6V9ZT42b3z2CvAZKRPpnBC4k0Q1m7cLbG2J_Ths_hVuTEUNLkudA6Igj9RHd9WbS4W3_CAqkicxhcV-XWwWFtWgSSw2ZNUfQ6vsAdVTLtbO_Vxm7lnx6quKvBau6VaIM/s2592/PXL_20230330_005027150.PORTRAIT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="479" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2g6otIEl6T83n7IbqfsOsCiddykxBzzkvI9AURvf4NYZ1p6BS5SMDsq1BcNM6V9ZT42b3z2CvAZKRPpnBC4k0Q1m7cLbG2J_Ths_hVuTEUNLkudA6Igj9RHd9WbS4W3_CAqkicxhcV-XWwWFtWgSSw2ZNUfQ6vsAdVTLtbO_Vxm7lnx6quKvBau6VaIM/w359-h479/PXL_20230330_005027150.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="359" /></a></em></div><h3 style="text-align: center;">Caizergues 2018 Les Magnarelles, Languedoc</h3><p>Languedoc is a huge region in southern France previously known for bulk wine, but now reinvented and the producer of dynamic quality wines. Wines, like this wine, can be purchased at a steal. This blend is Syrah with Carignan, Cinsault and Syrah. The tannins are laid back, indicating this may have been aged in concrete. </p> <p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Keep up with the latest. Follow us on </strong></em></a><em><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Instagram!</strong></em></a></strong></em></p> <p>This is a fresh, medium-bodied wine with dark fruit and black currant notes accented with garrigue – a blend of herbs typical in the region. Lively, fresh, and elegant. About $15, although I snagged this at a sub-$10 closeout. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPxsCMFig_E36OL2JLf_x_G8L9CdLAUTy0E7KwvLTyoI4dVSTcjJh_dCFsthG1BjcqWrE0W7Io0mmIzGYJaNt4lxE2IiRafbv5iYdvphdnMOG9pzviEB-I-XQPRU73yQ4L7fnIQPc9r7szbRqolpITqFUNakXPyDmWx3f5go2E7BcgPydfAmRDPF2dwIA/s2497/PXL_20230402_020909330.PORTRAIT~2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2497" data-original-width="1873" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPxsCMFig_E36OL2JLf_x_G8L9CdLAUTy0E7KwvLTyoI4dVSTcjJh_dCFsthG1BjcqWrE0W7Io0mmIzGYJaNt4lxE2IiRafbv5iYdvphdnMOG9pzviEB-I-XQPRU73yQ4L7fnIQPc9r7szbRqolpITqFUNakXPyDmWx3f5go2E7BcgPydfAmRDPF2dwIA/w342-h456/PXL_20230402_020909330.PORTRAIT~2.jpg" width="342" /></a></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: center;">Castello di Torre in Pietra 2020 “Elephas” Bianco, Lazio IGT </h3><h3 align="center"><font color="#ffffff"> <p></p> </font></h3> <p>Did I just buy this because I thought the Green Dragon would like the elephant on the label? Perhaps. This Italian blend combines Trebbiano, Vermentino, and the southern grape of Fiano. These grapes can produce some unremarkable wines and combining them together doesn’t improve the situation much.</p> <p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/vinosphere1/"><em><strong>Never Miss A Beat – Follow Vino-Sphere On Facebook</strong></em></a></p> <p>There are fresh notes of lemon, some salinity, and peaches. Great for a sunny day, deeply chilled with some seafood. Organic with a price tag of about $14. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkAZ5csDZPnZux8JP_hUZRnfNi3qhk4twiB26PqyOHBjOZUWlgJmvtn69G6pQ8_pXlbHOndHngykoxoi5YbVSheoVduHFSFHmDXjjGwWXuhGwridlypiTRztNZUfi9nZuUdMCAF15NZf7JT_SxVl9d6UnXQY4ebiiVJB6E6L2T5JRULB3-lCgIqqVUgBQ/s2592/PXL_20230404_222745302.PORTRAIT~2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkAZ5csDZPnZux8JP_hUZRnfNi3qhk4twiB26PqyOHBjOZUWlgJmvtn69G6pQ8_pXlbHOndHngykoxoi5YbVSheoVduHFSFHmDXjjGwWXuhGwridlypiTRztNZUfi9nZuUdMCAF15NZf7JT_SxVl9d6UnXQY4ebiiVJB6E6L2T5JRULB3-lCgIqqVUgBQ/w369-h492/PXL_20230404_222745302.PORTRAIT~2.jpg" width="369" /></a></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: center;">Weingut Hillinger 2017 Hillside Red, Burgenland</h3> <p>After attending an industry tasting on Burgenland wine, my eyes were opened to this region that is the top producer of reds in Austria. Hillinger is a great producer and they do it with some uncommon (outside of Austria) grapes. This easy-to-love blend features 60% spicy Syrah, 30% fruity Zweigelt, and 10% supple Merlot. Dark ruby in the glass, it has aromas of fruit and spice. On the palate, blackberries come forth with cherries, smokiness, and black pepper. </p> <p>The use of oak aging is restrained, allowing for a beautiful, laid-back finish. Highly recommended. Priced at around $24. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfbOlTpfna7zAgUW8RWSlCnZ7eh9MfzhngR81HiF-oFuM_csHPuYK5d8ycUgaiGdSIwLNqPH1iTl4h_bT0nUUz-vbZ50E-IMPNmWmtv96AVTbqqMZsAy-3ojYXAZ1xg6gjacFTzovmR_hxaU8jpLfZwqmq-pIDiaXwy9Qw3_9NHskvuk7uIgfyGc7IKBo/s2592/PXL_20230415_005113473~2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfbOlTpfna7zAgUW8RWSlCnZ7eh9MfzhngR81HiF-oFuM_csHPuYK5d8ycUgaiGdSIwLNqPH1iTl4h_bT0nUUz-vbZ50E-IMPNmWmtv96AVTbqqMZsAy-3ojYXAZ1xg6gjacFTzovmR_hxaU8jpLfZwqmq-pIDiaXwy9Qw3_9NHskvuk7uIgfyGc7IKBo/w348-h464/PXL_20230415_005113473~2.jpg" width="348" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: center;">Montes de Leza 2021 Limited Edition Leas, Rioja</h3><h3 align="center"><font color="#ffffff"> </font></h3> <p>This is an unusual wine for us. We regularly enjoy Spanish wines from Rioja, but they almost always are red and mostly Tempranillo. This wine flips the script and is a white Rioja made with 100% Viura. I’ve had a chance to tour Rioja and tried some whites and they can be quite enjoyable, as is this one.</p> <p>It comes from the northwest DOCa Rioja Alavesa, which is known for producing some delicate wines. Indeed, this wine weighs in with a mere 12.5% ABV, which means you can pair it with a wide variety of lighter dishes without overwhelming them. In the glass, this is a pale greenish yellow. On the tongue, this has notes of citrus and white fruits. Perfect with salads, pasta, and seafood. I scored this for a mere $12.99.</p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-40718893109854178762023-04-05T07:50:00.001-04:002024-01-17T09:40:17.689-05:00Stift Klosterneuburg Sparkling Grüner Veltliner Unveils Delicious Bubbles<p><font size="5"><em></em></font></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font size="5"><em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcxO6lZvS2EDLHgOw2RazhDZyk0n0xo3eQYdh9lu77EwmDopa9rbSPHN6AFfGZwOTpsbvUc7gc5CmoX5tXgq2oIPXFkETbHixJu5Ht2iWZJasZlu1bUS12vp0_3zMMzPjfBnNMpWsdG5tlVsAUo_fjKyOoUXQpCTDfMLsUXu0taWMDUcWDTb0Mx_VNrjk/s2592/PXL_20230325_202710907.PORTRAIT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcxO6lZvS2EDLHgOw2RazhDZyk0n0xo3eQYdh9lu77EwmDopa9rbSPHN6AFfGZwOTpsbvUc7gc5CmoX5tXgq2oIPXFkETbHixJu5Ht2iWZJasZlu1bUS12vp0_3zMMzPjfBnNMpWsdG5tlVsAUo_fjKyOoUXQpCTDfMLsUXu0taWMDUcWDTb0Mx_VNrjk/w345-h460/PXL_20230325_202710907.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="345" /></a></em></font></div><font size="5"><em><br />This Austrian Sekt has a legendary past.</em></font><p></p> <p>During our recent wine dinner featuring six big California reds, we started things on a lighter note. The opening wine was the Stift Klosterneuburg Sparkling Grüner Veltliner.</p> <h1>Austrian Sekt Bubbles With History</h1> <p>The sparkling wine in Austria is called sekt. I’ve enjoyed a bottle or two of German sekt, but this is the first I’ve had from Austria and, in fact, didn’t know they made it.</p> <p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/vinosphere1/"><em><strong>Never Miss A Beat – Follow Vino-Sphere On Facebook</strong></em></a></p> <p>Sparkling wine in Austria actually dates back to 1859 and Emperor Franz Josef is said to have enjoyed a bottle of sekt every Sunday. It’s surprising to learn that Austria has created a sparkling wine innovation that is with us today. The wire cage (muselet) that fits over the cork in sparkling wine and is used around the world today was developed there.</p> <p>The weather conditions were perfect for me to introduce the sekt on the patio. Showers had moved out earlier in the day, but a gust of wind still wafted around.</p> <p>As we poured the bubbly, I related the “legend of the veil,” first recorded in the 14th century. About 900 years ago, on their wedding day, Prince Leopold III and his bride Agnes stood on Leopoldsberg Hill. A sudden gust of wind took hold of Agnes’ bridal veil and blew it off her head.</p> <p>In present time, the wind cooperated on the patio and a nice gust of wind blew just at that time in my story. I only wish I thought to toss a white napkin in the air. </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-DTA76-LaqeXmefxABwBX7NpnI6vTiNlHdTNxLkcrQP9PJ8OY14dJNyJfA6tFcJJTHMEzExZXgovJHFpWIG3zhTVWToVhuKWHcdJ30_wOq__gBZdD4S3KuimFzF1nwxQpzkVtNIW2upXfvgwWxCJ07LdG5PWSLsVMLLA3Iud2hoidCjKGo_nsfBUZTs/s2048/Vadouvan%20Spiced%20Carrots%20&%20Radishes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="415" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-DTA76-LaqeXmefxABwBX7NpnI6vTiNlHdTNxLkcrQP9PJ8OY14dJNyJfA6tFcJJTHMEzExZXgovJHFpWIG3zhTVWToVhuKWHcdJ30_wOq__gBZdD4S3KuimFzF1nwxQpzkVtNIW2upXfvgwWxCJ07LdG5PWSLsVMLLA3Iud2hoidCjKGo_nsfBUZTs/w311-h415/Vadouvan%20Spiced%20Carrots%20&%20Radishes.jpg" width="311" /></a></div><h1 style="text-align: left;">The Prince, The Bridal Veil And The Monastery</h1> <p>Agnes’ veil, was made of a fine fabric from Byzantium and flew over the hills of the Leopoldsberg. Leopold knelt down and swore to found a monastery in the place where he’d find the veil again. Nine years later, Leopold was hunting in the area all at once the dogs started to bark in the scrub. There was the white veil, hanging fully intact on a blossoming elder tree. On that spot, the Klosterneuburg monastery was built. Without that veil, we would have none of the delicious sekt that is produced there!</p> <p></p> <p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Keep up with the latest. Follow us on </strong></em></a><em><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Instagram!</strong></em></a></strong></em></p> <p>Stift Klosterneuburg is the oldest wine estate in Austria, being founded in 1114. Grüner Veltliner is the most widely grown grape in Austria and produces world-class wines in a variety of styles. The sekt has a delicate froth with fruity and spicy notes. In the glass the fine bubbles shot up in continuous streams, adding to the elegance of the occasion.</p> <p>The flavors of pears, apples, and peaches blend deliciously in this brut-style wine. It has a crisp and clean finish. </p> <p>We served the bubbles with a savory dish of Vadouvan Spiced Carrots and Radishes prepared by our friend Dathan of <a href="https://www.trianglearoundtown.com/">Triangle Around Town</a>. This was a great counterpoint to the sekt and a standout pairing.</p> <p>At about $20 or less, this is a great buy for entertaining. </p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-70248161622859493912023-04-01T09:22:00.004-04:002024-01-17T16:36:07.654-05:00Moon Mountain District Wines Sky High With Premium Quality<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMwqNOWJdAU1CANddmGHyPaJPWQH6vOHy1DyUjbvZUJBhOuh2i9AsvwaplVZfb6dMaC1T_rFdPLqWIOfBGdWg8hNvhh4ijLRI4vGxkZ8sqgfQeniYghhnA7I63fSsUt16wYTL3cVJDbYn85ycl87cHBHIUkIbJ_E5bFd4odgyG8aoyrqNZY679APzIjM/s1920/Moon%20Mountain%20District%20Dinner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMwqNOWJdAU1CANddmGHyPaJPWQH6vOHy1DyUjbvZUJBhOuh2i9AsvwaplVZfb6dMaC1T_rFdPLqWIOfBGdWg8hNvhh4ijLRI4vGxkZ8sqgfQeniYghhnA7I63fSsUt16wYTL3cVJDbYn85ycl87cHBHIUkIbJ_E5bFd4odgyG8aoyrqNZY679APzIjM/w587-h330/Moon%20Mountain%20District%20Dinner.png" width="587" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Moon Mountain District Dinner</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><em style="font-size: x-large;">Moon Mountain District crafting premium reds from mountainous perch in Sonoma County.</em></p> <font color="#ffffff"></font> <h4 style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;">By Dave Nershi, CSW</div><div style="text-align: center;">Vino-Sphere Publisher</div></h4> <p>Ten years ago I tasted my first wine from Moon Mountain, buying five bottles from the Moon Mountain Vineyard winery. The luscious wine soon ran out and to make matters worse, I learned the winery was closing. My lingering fears were unfounded as Repris Wines purchased the property and continued and expand the reputation of the legendary vineyard and wine from this special slice of Sonoma continues to flow.</p> <p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Keep up with the latest. Follow us on </strong></em></a><em><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Instagram!</strong></em></a></strong></em></p> <p>The Moon Mountain District AVA, formed in 2013, is in a mountainous region in the very east of Sonoma County. It is made entirely of hillside vineyards, some incredibly remote, with iron-rich volcanic soil. A clear view of San Francisco 50 miles south is not uncommon.</p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJPjVfRYKYTegOXBriTHkJuDbmx9R6r7qvPf3_eAeSOa9VqcimB1__Bnnm1mgR9BfyP8Tp8yFaegri5xuyBAyrU2W5D7463emimBbyvSOeRjvKWS9Vv0TG9c7v82qx_i6N990Jd2MfRq_5luTwKTyrmyL08qlswRSXwE0zBJIrQRdJkNGFBQot7bu2BTk/s2750/Moon%20Mountain%20Wines.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1555" data-original-width="2750" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJPjVfRYKYTegOXBriTHkJuDbmx9R6r7qvPf3_eAeSOa9VqcimB1__Bnnm1mgR9BfyP8Tp8yFaegri5xuyBAyrU2W5D7463emimBbyvSOeRjvKWS9Vv0TG9c7v82qx_i6N990Jd2MfRq_5luTwKTyrmyL08qlswRSXwE0zBJIrQRdJkNGFBQot7bu2BTk/w576-h326/Moon%20Mountain%20Wines.png" width="576" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Moon Mountain wines</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Wines made there have been famed since the 1880s. Phil Coturri, vineyard manager and pioneer of organic and biodynamic winegrowing in California, explains the uniqueness this way, “The multiplicity of slopes, aspects, exposures, and elevations, combined with volcanic soils enlivened with organic matter and enhanced by complex cover crops creates flavors as unique as the terroir found in the Moon Mountain District -- of course, the attitude of the winegrower adds additional spice.”</p><p></p> <p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/vinosphere1/"><em><strong>Never Miss A Beat – Follow Vino-Sphere On Facebook</strong></em></a></p> <p>We recently celebrated these magnificent wines with the Red Side of the Moon: A Moon Mountain AVA Dinner, pairing six wines with tasty gourmet dishes. These are premium red wines and most have limited production. Although these are "big" wines, we were impressed with the richness and balance that translated to grace and power. We decanted each wine for at least an hour. </p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyZFfHYSE-sQbW23LcuZ49qu4YTjvzHYxs1_dddf1VxzLh7I8JC7e8YA73VaE6-OMQIwF2cq1-tNBOUCuFLPwVDJo0S4R_hBfh8ZSwsOzn1TY1z_S7FLifvqvVFJwBbu-37CqDLgtiKk1KU1kwsSBwHM5DrhcD5bjaTEnB2gSESXsk24R9n-T5HMy-UTk/s2000/Kamen%20Cab,%20Lasseter%20Syrah%20&%20Stew.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2000" height="363" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyZFfHYSE-sQbW23LcuZ49qu4YTjvzHYxs1_dddf1VxzLh7I8JC7e8YA73VaE6-OMQIwF2cq1-tNBOUCuFLPwVDJo0S4R_hBfh8ZSwsOzn1TY1z_S7FLifvqvVFJwBbu-37CqDLgtiKk1KU1kwsSBwHM5DrhcD5bjaTEnB2gSESXsk24R9n-T5HMy-UTk/w454-h363/Kamen%20Cab,%20Lasseter%20Syrah%20&%20Stew.png" width="454" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Kamen Cab, Lasseter Syrah and stew</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Our group included wine writers Dathan and Jen of <a href="https://www.trianglearoundtown.com/">Triangle Around Town</a> and Arthur and Mary Barham of <a href="https://www.merlot2muscadine.com/">Merlot2Muscadine</a> as well as friends Robert and Linda. Each wine was served with a specially crafted dish.</p> <p></p> <p>For “lift-off” on our voyage to the Moon, we started with a sparkling Grüner Veltliner Sekt (more on that in a separate story) and the Reprise 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Heritage Clones. This was paired with Vadouvan Spiced Carrots & Radishes and a cheese selection. The unique French spices, a take on Indian masala, created a complex blend of smokiness and sweetness that worked wonderfully with both wines.</p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg59V-Uoyj11Rb66z3KCJ5CRWYBFyZt5-kqkaz3LPc3mLbU-zWNF9c3BrOY8k71PKb3Fy_DYsm2atQWcGMBmZe1g3wiF61ZvIDPEdc9rbrTUfWORy4LIHZB224D6e0Jilxk4bMs0u-ylVGw846SqLxNbo3A4EhXL37JiRGXb2w2tlw2lKc8SKbiLESVaMU/s1500/moon%20mountain%20group%20Cheers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="948" data-original-width="1500" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg59V-Uoyj11Rb66z3KCJ5CRWYBFyZt5-kqkaz3LPc3mLbU-zWNF9c3BrOY8k71PKb3Fy_DYsm2atQWcGMBmZe1g3wiF61ZvIDPEdc9rbrTUfWORy4LIHZB224D6e0Jilxk4bMs0u-ylVGw846SqLxNbo3A4EhXL37JiRGXb2w2tlw2lKc8SKbiLESVaMU/w572-h361/moon%20mountain%20group%20Cheers.jpg" width="572" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Moon Mountain diners</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>The Repris Cabernet uses the Moon Mountain Clone evolved in volcanic soil over four decades. It includes some of the oldest Cabernet Sauvignon vines in California and delivers a wine that delighted the group with aromas of dark fruit and sweet spices. This is a savory wine that immediately opens your eyes to the glorious potential of Moon Mountain District.</p> <p></p> <p>Pairing six big reds with a dinner menu can be ticklish, but the Green Dragon was up to the challenge. Our next dish was a Beef & Vegetable Stew and a Thai Quinoa Crunch Salad (prepared by me). The stew was a lighter affair just perfect for the Kamen 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Moon Mountain and the Lasseter 2018 Syrah Moon Mountain.</p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibp177NlhFxLyfkRX6GLvPOScymTSpw98IOsoVkK-Gs0bbmvaBMJvofGrsZhnLuMWi_Q2ZeBgIPEkVrU61edo6JKTvHo6fq3METu3TEJlTaTjG-3dJLIHYMPgbfbj2e522Ksy2SyotUbq319kx9WVv4udzbeKPvXiLAb2ux0lyYFpIin2Y3IPlIXTKXb8/s3566/Faces%20at%20Red%20Side%20of%20the%20Moon%20Dinner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="858" data-original-width="3566" height="138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibp177NlhFxLyfkRX6GLvPOScymTSpw98IOsoVkK-Gs0bbmvaBMJvofGrsZhnLuMWi_Q2ZeBgIPEkVrU61edo6JKTvHo6fq3METu3TEJlTaTjG-3dJLIHYMPgbfbj2e522Ksy2SyotUbq319kx9WVv4udzbeKPvXiLAb2ux0lyYFpIin2Y3IPlIXTKXb8/w575-h138/Faces%20at%20Red%20Side%20of%20the%20Moon%20Dinner.png" width="575" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Faces at the Red Side of the Moon dinner</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>The Kamen captured fans right away with raspberry and violet notes riding on complex dark chocolate layers. Minerality and smooth tannins make for a great finish. The Lasseter was the only non-Cabernet wine and provided a nice contrast with a decided Old World vibe and brambly notes of sweet oak and blackberry. At this point, our guests have become avid Moon Mountain admirers.</p> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEn2Z-62I2RcKKoClwVjjJYuQ4arYIOU9jUM_fMM8-kn8MGuWtr7uv4JVzeW-N_i2N0RFqULdSMydpxc8K9JN50BbqtSr7J2IGlAh9AY_JqKmx3W4VnCqlk6clO1RkQ5Shwt-76TU_CkBwBhldk8RVwyt5zbCpNIM7yVjPb6Bn8rUXjNPBYJE6wicuPWU/s1572/MM%20Alpha.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1572" data-original-width="882" height="419" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEn2Z-62I2RcKKoClwVjjJYuQ4arYIOU9jUM_fMM8-kn8MGuWtr7uv4JVzeW-N_i2N0RFqULdSMydpxc8K9JN50BbqtSr7J2IGlAh9AY_JqKmx3W4VnCqlk6clO1RkQ5Shwt-76TU_CkBwBhldk8RVwyt5zbCpNIM7yVjPb6Bn8rUXjNPBYJE6wicuPWU/w236-h419/MM%20Alpha.png" width="236" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>All six wines have ABV levels above 14.5% and two have more than 15%, so it was time for a pause. Arthur presented his intermezzo, a chilled fruit soup duet. We enjoyed a Peach & Champagne Shooter and a Pear, Prosecco & Mint Spoon. Now that’s the way to cleanse your palate!<p></p> <p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5sINdDg803e-jlKupimPAme6IX49wAe2MawHBh80p3zviukhCk7v2yKl34LuP3YVeECxhh-LM2OVPKB_uhUV89i5hb2JgPwrjLCN3ze-kBIrvrcsht2CKJxWj4WBXRVhG5JbxexNffwd8vsGNRMSsCfJSkvCQ1n3QTI3YJf2DY-jsZm7nM-5lD1jNLo/s2592/PXL_20230325_234828255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="471" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5sINdDg803e-jlKupimPAme6IX49wAe2MawHBh80p3zviukhCk7v2yKl34LuP3YVeECxhh-LM2OVPKB_uhUV89i5hb2JgPwrjLCN3ze-kBIrvrcsht2CKJxWj4WBXRVhG5JbxexNffwd8vsGNRMSsCfJSkvCQ1n3QTI3YJf2DY-jsZm7nM-5lD1jNLo/w353-h471/PXL_20230325_234828255.jpg" width="353" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Peach & Champagne Shooter and a Pear, Prosecco & Mint Spoon</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><p>Two very special wines were teed up for our next entrée: Seared Duck Breast with Port & Cherry Sauce. What a refreshing food pairing. The duck offers a delicious change from steak, with its rich meat and robust flavor.</p> <p></p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU5g5_lZKGOj5AZXoo5pN8qsmDwLvQh0iwoZ0FPCqOydTM92Ez9S0NrxdmPakgxt0Mp7eaYSnOqqKyB4GRdLD1Ytk7KeYNdMre64GL9NW5mLFDbdFtqkiyHAJ1ej-9wDu8QSHq3QMXd4c51tTykGslbw9emVIOJzKDDCn8xNMoGGizx6yqB0oOmYGwSxI/s2000/Louis%20M.%20Martini%20Monte%20Rosso%20and%20Duck.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2000" height="467" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU5g5_lZKGOj5AZXoo5pN8qsmDwLvQh0iwoZ0FPCqOydTM92Ez9S0NrxdmPakgxt0Mp7eaYSnOqqKyB4GRdLD1Ytk7KeYNdMre64GL9NW5mLFDbdFtqkiyHAJ1ej-9wDu8QSHq3QMXd4c51tTykGslbw9emVIOJzKDDCn8xNMoGGizx6yqB0oOmYGwSxI/w584-h467/Louis%20M.%20Martini%20Monte%20Rosso%20and%20Duck.png" width="584" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Louis M. Martini Monte Rosso and Duck</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>The Louis M. Martini 2018 Monte Rosso Vineyard has the vineyard’s signature spice and sweet oak aromatics. Topping out at 16.1% ABV, I wondered if this would be too “big,” but it proved to be big, balanced, and agile – like the Yankees Aaron Judge. Monte Rosso has been producing award-winning wines for three generations. This is a bottle that can and should be aged to fully integrate the tannins.</p> <p></p> <p>Stone Edge Farm Winery is an interesting producer that is focused on organic grapes and high environmental standards. It produces energy independent of the power grid and has a carbon footprint below zero. However, my main interest was its 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon. This has 4% Malbec and 1% Cabernet Franc, which fine-tunes the powerful Cabernet flavor. On the tongue, there are baking spices, ripe cherries, and tobacco. </p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9xdjJ6AHC1Viq7a4FhWZv3Ew4OB9-NT2PhTv-oqftnOG6ChuqWS4jvzAzpA9KrAJDBE50cWWkvhbGKdp5PmNp7hBEy_A8ytnlBJgSWWVBBEWcrbhyD8tRPuFKKbByJ3npFo3GvCdOkRGuif2nOtsp3Pv5cZTgQ9BblsBUBFboVwUJTYFi3tPtPQ6u_6U/s2000/Red%20Side%20of%20the%20Moon,%20Chocolate.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2000" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9xdjJ6AHC1Viq7a4FhWZv3Ew4OB9-NT2PhTv-oqftnOG6ChuqWS4jvzAzpA9KrAJDBE50cWWkvhbGKdp5PmNp7hBEy_A8ytnlBJgSWWVBBEWcrbhyD8tRPuFKKbByJ3npFo3GvCdOkRGuif2nOtsp3Pv5cZTgQ9BblsBUBFboVwUJTYFi3tPtPQ6u_6U/w496-h397/Red%20Side%20of%20the%20Moon,%20Chocolate.png" width="496" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Red Side of the Moon and chocolate</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>For our “wine-down,” we moved out to the patio and amidst the torch flames enjoyed a selection of Dark Chocolate Truffles and Caramels. Our final Moon Mountain District wine was the B Wise 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Moon Mountain. A 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, just over 500 cases were produced. After five big reds, could the B Wise still delight? Yes, with exceptional balance, jammy goodness, dark fruit, and hints of leather this was a perfect wrap-up to the evening.</p><p></p> <p>The greatness of these wines is undeniable right now, even though most are designed to age, some up to 20 years. The warmer climate, longer growing season, and rocky high-altitude soils make Moon Mountain wines a memorable treat. If you are unfamiliar with this unique region, the <a href="https://moonmountaindistrict.org/">Moon Mountain District Winegrowers Association</a> website provides a nice background.</p> <p><em>Full Disclosure: These wines were received as a marketing sample.</em></p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7128892402950320966.post-28602768378007198542023-03-28T07:32:00.001-04:002024-01-19T11:52:51.104-05:00Argentina Escapade: Visiting Buenos Aires<p><font size="5"><em></em></font></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font size="5"><em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbRc4EU1uG5jU6_t3vz8zurJph3bzrDc0jAMLnOJ4spL_qcqqw_weanLRh6a8XS0Vvvf3DCaf1I91qF0yvig0ibX2bOIkiyeLXUOftS5ICtc4V6WO_XV6m_WHry0IZBzg4a6KLDZ6_DSWFPWY8KKD4RoJTyb2pZBIJihb855rz9DfLXyXJKdxh8kQDbho/s1863/PXL_20230213_125733531~3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1863" data-original-width="1420" height="499" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbRc4EU1uG5jU6_t3vz8zurJph3bzrDc0jAMLnOJ4spL_qcqqw_weanLRh6a8XS0Vvvf3DCaf1I91qF0yvig0ibX2bOIkiyeLXUOftS5ICtc4V6WO_XV6m_WHry0IZBzg4a6KLDZ6_DSWFPWY8KKD4RoJTyb2pZBIJihb855rz9DfLXyXJKdxh8kQDbho/w380-h499/PXL_20230213_125733531~3.jpg" width="380" /></a></em></font></div><font size="5"><em><br />Buenos Aires is bold and bustling. Here’s our travel tale including the top attractions in Buenos Aires.</em></font><p></p> <h1>Unique Argentina</h1> <p>Argentina is a big, beautiful country – the eighth largest in the world and the second largest in South America. During our recent visit, we covered the country from north to south, enjoying its splendor, unique culture, attractions, and people. We began our odyssey in Buenos Areas, the country’s capital.</p> <p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Keep up with the latest. Follow us on </strong></em></a><em><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vino_sphere/"><em><strong>Instagram!</strong></em></a></strong></em></p> <p>Argentinean wine really moves me: rich and powerful expressions of a vibrant land. Through the <a href="https://www.apwasi.com/">Asia Pacific Wine and Spirits Institute</a> Argentina wine course, I became certified as a specialist in that country’s wine. APWASI courses are unique in that they spend a great deal of time on the history and culture of countries, not just the grapes. Learning about the asado (grand barbecue), tango, the natural beauty, and the country’s tumultuous history piqued my sense of adventure.</p> <p>Our trip covered Buenos Aires, Salta, Cafayate, Mendoza, and Patagonia’s El Calafate. We’ll share our experience in a series of posts.</p> <h1>Traveling To Argentina<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixcvPLnsyyzODmkD-YKMoD6gP3hsXw8LdiTrTMak4moc1tX19tFSLEQfNeKOuFeXK-HGXnteefFHlZUVyDl-eclLQJ-gNw-5jQPJ5jYKpIpptMcEAmnOoEvOnIrTVXgM4zRuc6zpDEG9TbI5GqhtKjzI6chjJ89ZAmQQwJxefehEQpX5PjX8E6LGD-Bac/s2592/PXL_20230212_175819357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="467" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixcvPLnsyyzODmkD-YKMoD6gP3hsXw8LdiTrTMak4moc1tX19tFSLEQfNeKOuFeXK-HGXnteefFHlZUVyDl-eclLQJ-gNw-5jQPJ5jYKpIpptMcEAmnOoEvOnIrTVXgM4zRuc6zpDEG9TbI5GqhtKjzI6chjJ89ZAmQQwJxefehEQpX5PjX8E6LGD-Bac/w350-h467/PXL_20230212_175819357.jpg" width="350" /></a></div></h1> <p>We worked with <a href="https://www.kimkim.com/">KimKim</a>, a travel outfit from Colorado that specializes in personalized trips for independent travelers. They prepared an itinerary based on our specifications, reserving lodgings, arranging transfers, and setting up most excursions. They also arranged our domestic flights in Argentina (it’s a big country).</p> <p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/vinosphere1/"><em><strong>Never Miss A Beat – Follow Vino-Sphere On Facebook</strong></em></a></p> <p>Traveling to Argentina requires endurance if you are coming from the US. We are located in North Carolina and so had to fly to JFK, then to Santiago, Chile, and then over to Buenos Aires. It was a course that took more than 20 hours and spread into the next day.</p> <p>We stayed in the <a href="https://www.474buenosaireshotel.com.ar/">474 Buenos Aires Hotel</a>, on San Martin, just around the corner from Corrientes Avenue, which is the main street that leads to the Obelisco, the city’s trademark monument. You may have seen it during Argentina’s World Cup championship celebration. </p> <p>We arrived at the hotel in the morning. When we finally stepped out to see the city on Sunday afternoon, we thought, this is pretty low-key. Not many people were on the streets and many businesses closed. We decided to take a walk after dinner and found the city exploding with people and activity. Dinner time begins at 9 and the evening usually doesn’t hit full tilt until 10.</p> <p>The next day I decided I needed some Argentinian pesos. I was warned against changing money at the airport due to the poor exchange rate. When we arrived, the official exchange rate was $1US to 155 pesos. However, there is a quirk. The illegal (but widely accepted and available) blue rate for exchange is almost twice as good. Using a referral, I went to a little shop with $100 US and left with wads of rubber-banded 1,000 peso notes at more than 300 to-one exchange.</p> <p>The economy is tumultuous. Although the price of goods and dining is inexpensive, it is a moving target, with prices going up to keep up with the ever-changing inflation. That’s fine for the tourist, but for the Argentina resident with no change in wages and the same bills to pay, it is a mountain to climb. That’s why the US dollar is king and it’s good to keep some to spread around as necessary.</p> <h1>Must See Attractions In Buenos Aires</h1> <p>Here are four must-see attractions to see in Buenos Aires:</p> <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXKRmleyb6zJVhRY-y7QWaHIyujE4PcbzlxjdPCR-ziDmmbl-HqP4eo7e-26wemaR3UE9UhSD3wMW7rukoZ-iRqVaoyAU0idr3O2dKVCWDVg3sOzfb1tTV-ny1-gXp816j3K9b5pwoq_w_6iFgthlfvsRA50etR42P2yh-mZuxYFQbqq9dj8dNgpHKeHk/s800/Gala%20Tango.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXKRmleyb6zJVhRY-y7QWaHIyujE4PcbzlxjdPCR-ziDmmbl-HqP4eo7e-26wemaR3UE9UhSD3wMW7rukoZ-iRqVaoyAU0idr3O2dKVCWDVg3sOzfb1tTV-ny1-gXp816j3K9b5pwoq_w_6iFgthlfvsRA50etR42P2yh-mZuxYFQbqq9dj8dNgpHKeHk/w404-h404/Gala%20Tango.png" width="404" /></a></div> <h3 align="center"><em>Argentine Tango Show</em></h3> <p>The tango dance, full of drama, sensuality, and sweeping steps, is the rhythm of Buenos Aires and this country. It began in the tenements of La Boca on the riverfront in the 19th century and became respectable with the upper class in the 1920s and 1930s. In the 1940s and 1950s, the people of Buenos Aires celebrated tango as the national music of the people. </p> <p>Tango artists lent Evita Perón her support, but a military coup ousted Peróns in 1955 and forbade large tango dances. The dance fell out of favor but saw a huge upswing in the 1990s. You can see and dance the tango at a milonga (dance hall). We chose to enjoy a tango show and dinner through <a href="https://www.galatango.com/#home">Gala Tango</a>. We were picked up and returned to our hotel, something very helpful on the second day in a new city. </p> <p>The event featured a beautiful setting with a delicious gourmet meal. The meal dinner appetizers, a choice of main dish, and dessert. To enhance the evening, there was an unlimited supply of drinks. In our case, we savored the sparkling wine and moved to the famous Argentinian Malbec for dinner.</p> <p>The show features 19 performers on stage, including three tango couples, a lead female and male singer, and a small orchestra. The energy for the show was through the roof! There are no bad seats in the restaurant and the service was attentive. A highlight of the evening included Rodolfo Ruiz, who plays the traditional 10-stringed charango instrument. He is a virtuoso and played the instrument with the intensity of a Led Zeppelin guitar solo. </p> <p>The finale included all performers on stage waving the Argentina flag while images of Evita Perón flashed on the screen. It was an electric moment. The price is about $165 per person. There are cheaper options, but why scrimp? Dinner starts at 8:00 PM with the show starting at 10 PM.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ti-O4LvVW9TK9a3VASzJ2INQiPkvd1Kx9h0gIgFok21eXGJl8OHXEYXVWFNhDTll7rZpcoS0LZxvZhtAkLYn58xh3yT_DnYCbX3oT7bHIWAxyag5r40YWoAdyvorDszTYvMYa6fQZRutHFJvA-PBvNpf4U5NKNyB2u4AP_QvVQcxFa5gnog-IiiSRn0/s2592/PXL_20230212_232651862.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="487" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ti-O4LvVW9TK9a3VASzJ2INQiPkvd1Kx9h0gIgFok21eXGJl8OHXEYXVWFNhDTll7rZpcoS0LZxvZhtAkLYn58xh3yT_DnYCbX3oT7bHIWAxyag5r40YWoAdyvorDszTYvMYa6fQZRutHFJvA-PBvNpf4U5NKNyB2u4AP_QvVQcxFa5gnog-IiiSRn0/w366-h487/PXL_20230212_232651862.jpg" width="366" /></a></div><h3 align="center"><em style="text-align: left;">Obelisco de Buenos Aires</em></h3> <p>The Obelisk is the national symbol of Argentina and an icon of Buenos Aires. When Argentina won the World Cup in 2022 thousands flooded the Plaza de la República. In fact, the explosion of happiness jammed the area so much that the team bus couldn’t make it to the Obelisk and the team had to fly over in a helicopter.</p> <p>The monument, erected in 1936, measures 221 feet tall. It is located on the spot where the Argentinian flag was raised for the first time in 1812. It is located at the intersection of Avenues Corrientes and 9 de Julio.</p> <p>An evening visit is suggested as it is beautifully lit and is central to an area alive with nightlife including restaurants, shops, and theaters.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2WdLJtgkoNu9m0QkJVnBMxE2BrJXhJGJkyjip5K7s1BSpFKTn73x7jRbEpx71VTCVdxf4wFFucGab_7Xvoc6avUC-2Mr0RaDQhfibiIYf-lBlQ15b3Wtq8Ex1KeMLfcA8rf65cvuvI0NWspHSvRetnp5prm96_XnMkR6g83NadrhFJobBHAyC62SwsJ8/s1250/La%20Boca%20Argentina.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="875" data-original-width="1250" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2WdLJtgkoNu9m0QkJVnBMxE2BrJXhJGJkyjip5K7s1BSpFKTn73x7jRbEpx71VTCVdxf4wFFucGab_7Xvoc6avUC-2Mr0RaDQhfibiIYf-lBlQ15b3Wtq8Ex1KeMLfcA8rf65cvuvI0NWspHSvRetnp5prm96_XnMkR6g83NadrhFJobBHAyC62SwsJ8/w500-h350/La%20Boca%20Argentina.png" width="500" /></a></div><p align="center"><br /></p> <h3 align="center"><em>La Boca District</em></h3> <p align="left">La Boca is a colorful neighborhood near the Port of Buenos Aires. It began as a melting pot of cultures as immigrants arrived to work in the port. Many of the homes are made of multi-colored pieces of corrugated metal from shipping containers, giving the residences the look of a colorful patchwork quilt.</p> <p>This area was important to the development of the tango, and tango dancers perform regularly outside a local restaurant. Residents have been known as hard-working, no-nonsense people in contrast to richer residents to the north. The area is known for the Boca Juniors soccer team, one of the two largest teams in Argentina. The players reflect the fighting spirit of the barrio.</p> <p>The pedestrian streets are bustling, although the actual area is just a few blocks long. There are shops, restaurants and dance clubs.</p> <h3 align="center"><em style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZLy83FD08rSSizmgv_7-3dLgDceCC3RyrcQQlM_nZR75rFFvzi0EW3dswQSDx9r-ovXTXJaf2CbJkgRjvZ-vWU65Mq_Dpb3WpFVeLxm3GrdbaXMY2br-OpTRNeo4YN37zBhHgEXd0IOmYxTGlCOtoFRXDquc-JU__OQotbuTSA-qD5rj-KGOaBJVV5Ow/s1080/Recoleta%20Cemetery.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZLy83FD08rSSizmgv_7-3dLgDceCC3RyrcQQlM_nZR75rFFvzi0EW3dswQSDx9r-ovXTXJaf2CbJkgRjvZ-vWU65Mq_Dpb3WpFVeLxm3GrdbaXMY2br-OpTRNeo4YN37zBhHgEXd0IOmYxTGlCOtoFRXDquc-JU__OQotbuTSA-qD5rj-KGOaBJVV5Ow/w414-h414/Recoleta%20Cemetery.png" width="414" /></a></div><br />Cementerio de la Recoleta</em></h3> <p>Who would have ever thought that a cemetery would make our list of top Buenos Aires attractions? Recoleta, however, is no ordinary gravesite. Located in a posh neighborhood, the cemetery features thousands of statues, crypts, mausoleums, sculptures, and little houses containing the earthy remains of notable people, presidents, Nobel Prize winners, the founder of the Argentinian Navy, and military leaders.</p> <p>During our visit, the sky was overcast with rain drizzles – just perfect for this eerie and impressive place. Our guide led us down the lanes and it seemed like each crypt had its own story. Families pay to ensure the proper upkeep of crypts and sometimes have fresh flowers or other decorations weekly to keep the memory of loved ones alive. While we were touring we saw a workman tinkering with a chain mechanism used to lower new coffins into the lower reaches of a mausoleum.</p> <p>Of particular interest was the crypt of the Duarte family, where Evita Peron is buried. Flowers and notes to Evita festooned the ironwork. This is one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the world. Every sculpture tells a story and it is a site not to be missed.</p> <p><em>Our adventure continues in our upcoming posts as we travel the country from north to south, tasting wine, enjoying the cuisine, and finding the unusual.</em></p>Dave Nershi, CSWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17825382913061165764noreply@blogger.com2