Washington’s Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery (© Paige Foster | Dreamstime.com)
Only California produces more wine than the State of Washington and the weak dollar is making the unique offerings from the state’s wineries more attractive than ever to foreign buyers.
With winegrowers such as family-run Mercer Estates in Washington's Columbia Valley dedicating themselves to producing wines that exceed expectations, the Washington Wine Commission is marketing the state’s wines as high quality offerings at a reasonable price.
The Tri-City Herald has run a story about the commission’s annual Wine Experience program. This year, “Seventy-eight international wine importers, distributors, and hoteliers from more than 20 countries are touring the Mid-Columbia for a taste of Washington wines.”
Fifty-two of Washington’s wineries, including 40 from Eastern Washington, are participating to help the international visitors “sample wines, visit wineries and learn about viticulture and enology research that helps make Eastern Washington wines unique.”
The program has previously “introduced more than 500 people -- including those from Finland, Denmark, Germany, Israel, Mexico, and Sweden” to the wines of Washington State. Canada, Japan, and the United Kingdom have been identified as primary target markets, but this year the commission is placing special emphasis on reaching out to emerging economies in places like China and India. Robin Pollard, executive director of the Washington Wine Commission says people there "are developing their palate."
If you’d like to read the article in the Tri-City Herald cited above go to: World getting taste of Washington wines
Tempranillo Grapes Growing in Colmenar de Oreja (Image courtesy of HG Marketing)
Crowds of visitors flock to Madrid each year for the city’s great plazas, the magnificent “Golden Triangle of Museums,” the historic Palacio Real, and the terrific tapas. While there they are also likely to savor some of Spain’s fine wines, some of which are crafted just a short distance from the city.
Many visitors are probably unaware that one of Europe’s most captivating capitals is in the heart of the Madrid wine region where some of the country’s many talented winemakers pursue their craft. The region’s winegrowers produce fine wines suitable to accompany platters of Spain's exquisite sheep’s milk cheeses and smoked meats.
We recently attended a tasting of some the Madrid region’s outstanding offerings. The production of these wines is deeply rooted in a tradition that dates back to the 13th Century. If you find yourself in the capital, a visit to a local winery should make for a lovely day trip, but we had a wonderful time sampling the work of Madrid’s winegrowers without ever leaving the U.S.
The Varietals
The red wines of the Madrid region are made using Tempranillo, Garnacha, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah grapes, with the first two of these being the most predominant and distinctive. The white wines are made using Malvar, Albillo, Parellada, Torrontes, Viura, Airen, and Moscatel small grain grapes. The Malvar and Albillo are the most widely grown and are native to the region.
The tasting presented us with more good wines than we can recount, but we marveled at the novel qualities of the Qubel Barrica 2002. It is a blend consisting of 80% of the Tempranillo varietal, with the remainder being 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Syrah. It is aged in French (Allier) oak barrels, giving it a smoked flavoring along with a slight bitterness. Only 3,500 bottles and magnums are produced each year.
Equally unique among the reds on hand was the Homet 2003. It too is a blend, with 70% Tempranillo, 10% Merlot, 10% Syrah, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. It comes from the Charles III Royal Winery, founded by the King to supply the Royal Household. It is aged in oak barrels for 14 months with production limited to less than 4,000 bottles. The great cellar is made up of underground brick galleries that offer constant temperature and humidity year round. The extraordinary conditions produce a delightful young wine. As with France's Beaujolais, it is sometimes served slightly chilled in sunny Madrid.
And there were more red wines worth sampling to see which are best suited to an individual taste. If you’re feeling prosperous you might indulge in a pricey, but richly rewarding bottle of Bodegas Ricardo Benito 2002. It is produced with Tempranillo grapes grown on very old vines and aged in French oak barrels for 18 months at a winery resting 2,000 feet above sea level, just 25 miles from Madrid. Only 2,000 bottles are produced each year, but it should be easier to find at an American wine shop than ever before due to recent marketing efforts.
Sustainable Winegrowing
In 2002, the European Program for Integrated Pest Management created a winegrowers association (ATRIA) that provides a responsible agronomist and some Vegetal Sanity Government specialists to support winegrowers. It is one of ATRIA’s objectives to limit the use of pesticides to only the optimum moments, to reduce the number of treatments, and to choose the ones that are most respectful of the environment.
We asked Mario Bravo Cea, the man from ATRIA responsible for viticulture, about the Madrid region’s efforts to produce wine in a sustainable manner. He explained that pest management in Madrid is generally quite easy, making it possible to pursue almost organic production. Warm conditions provide high temperatures and low humidity in most of the vegetative cycle, making it difficult for vine pests and diseases to develop, leaving no need for the application of dangerous levels of pesticides. Indeed, one of the wines we tasted was certified organic.
We also asked Mario about methods of irrigation. He told us there are few vineyards in Madrid that are watered as most of the vines produce beautifully in conditions of dryness. Although using water in vineyards is allowed, it has to be with localized irrigation methods and the annual amount of water used is regulated by law.
The winegrowers also don’t spend a lot on vine fertilization. There are organic matter fertilizers from plants or animal residues that are being used, but the use of mineral complex are more extended. ATRIA is addressing the issue, working to limit the application of mineral products by adapting fertilizing programs to each type of soil.
For extending a long tradition of fine wine production and adapting the most sustainable agricultural methods we can only say Viva Espana!
Beaujolais, France (© Andreas Karelias | Dreamstime.com)
The fanfare that accompanies each November’s release of Beaujolais Nouveau makes it easy to forget that the venerable French wine region produces more than a dozen wines capable of pleasing a variety of tastes.
Considering that the Beaujolais region’s viticulture dates to the Roman Empire, it’s no surprise the local vintners have gained enviable expertise. Some of the vines have been carefuly tended and growing in the schist and granite-based soils for centuries. The result is wine as unique and representative of its terroir as any in the world.
We recently attended a tasting of Beaujolais wines of 2007 at the Gordon Ramsey Restaurant n New York’s London Hotel. Georges Duboeuf, the Frenchman largely responsible for bringing that region’s appellations to the attention of wine lovers around the world, joined us to offer his thoughts. Now in his 70s, the energetic Mr. Duboeuf has been the most well known producer of Beaujolais and one of the world’s most creative wine marketers for decades. It was a real delight to hear his thoughts on the latest vintage at the luncheon that followed the tasting.
Georges Duboeuf Among the Vines
Tasting Notes
There were sixteen of Mr. Duboeuf’s newest wines made available for tasting. Among the four white wines we found the Pouilly-Fuisse, Flower Label to be particularly noteworthy. Made entirely from Chardonnay grapes, it had a pale gold color, brilliantly transparent. The nose had the floweriness typical of Beaujolais, while the flavor offered hints of vanilla and honey. Mr. Duboeuf described it as “fine” and “classy,” with great promise for the future. It is delicious now, but after three or more years of aging this Pouilly-Fuisse should pair beautifully with a dish of fresh oysters or poached sea bass.
As much as we enjoyed the Pouilly-Fuisse , it was a red made from Gamay grapes that made the greatest impression on us, the Julienas, Chateau des Captains. The full-bodied cru is based around a village named for Julius Caesar. The growers believe the area was the site of the first vineyards planted by the Romans after Caesar’s conquest of Gaul.
Floral and spicy in the nose with good body, complex flavors, and a long finish, the Julienas, Chateau des Captains has already captured prizes in Macon and Paris. Mr. Duboeuf explained that terroir, the age of the vine, and the talent of the winemaker determine the ability of a wine to age well. He assured us that his Julienas “will age beautifully.” Four to six years is the recommended time of aging. We're looking forward to drinking the mature version with a grilled New York steak.
Though we loved the Julienas, perhaps the last word should go to the Moulin-a-Vent, Domaine des Rosiers 2007. It won a Gold Medal in Paris and garnered a First Prize in Beaujolais. Only a small amount has been bottled for tasting. The Moulin-a-Vent may be young, but it is “well-built” and “refined” in the words of Mr. Duboeuf. He believes it will open up beautifully. It will be ready for bottling in two to three months, then aged five to six years to reach full maturity.
If it’s been a while since you’ve sipped a Beaujolais other than a Nouveau, it might be time to get reacquainted with the region’s more aged offerings. Remember, one of the appeals of Beaujolais is its affordability!
Dallas at Night (photo by Jose, courtesy of morguefile.com)
Dallas’ most entertaining, inspiring, and enlightening Festival focusing on the pleasures of the table is just around the corner. From April 23rd through the 27th, the 24th Annual Dallas Wine and Food Festival will feature everything from how-to seminars on cooking and entertaining to sit-down dinners prepared by Dallas’ top chefs. The five days of events will also provide multiple opportunities to sample medal-winning wines. Tickets for the various events, which are open to the public, range from $30 to $100.
Pairing Great Film with Fine Wine & Food
This year’s Festival kicks off with Gourmet Cinema on Wednesday, April 23rd at the Dallas Angelika Film Center & Café. The ultimate wine lover’s movie “Sideways” is the Festival’s featured film. A wine tasting and a special dinner menu prepared by Chef Richard Chamberlain are included before a short walk upstairs at the Angelika for a private screening of the film. Will there be Merlot you ask? Attend and find out. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m.
Catch a Rising Culinary Star
Thursday, April 24th belongs to the Rising Stars Chefs' Dinner at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek. Enjoy an unforgettable evening at the Mansion and enjoy the award-winning specialties of Dallas' hottest new chefs; the top winners of the 11th Annual Rising Stars Chefs Contest. It will be a winemaker’s dinner unlike any other, featuring each of the winning chefs and their original dishes specifically paired with wines from Merryvale Vineyards. Reception begins at 6:30 p.m.
Tip Your Hat to the Best of Texas' Winemakers & Food Artisans
Grab your boots on Friday, April 25th and head down to Eddie Deen's Ranch to join the Texas Salute! It’s a Texas-sized happy hour where jeans are not only allowed, they are encouraged. The perfect casual evening where you can tip your hat to the very best of the West. You’ll be impressed by the increasing diversity and quality presented by the winemakers, artisan cheesemakers, and other local producers at this all-Texan affair. Hosted by Cathy Barber, Wine and Food Editor of the Dallas Morning News, and featuring home-grown live Texas music from the Randy Brown Duo to boot! The evening begins at 6:00 p.m.
Home Entertainment Tips from Talented Experts
On Saturday, April 26th guests will learn about Entertaining with Style at Milestone Culinary Arts Center & Viking Cooking School and surrounding shops and restaurants on Knox-Henderson. Dedicated to the celebration of entertaining at home, complete with do-it-yourself advice demos from talented chefs and wine experts. It’s an entire day of chef demos, food and wine tastings, reserve seminars, happy hour (separate admission), and entertaining tips, including a live session of the Dallas Morning News Taste Panel. The full day begins at 10:00 a.m.
Don’t Miss the Fun-Filled Climax: Taste of the World!
Sunday, April 27 the Festival comes to a fun-filled climax at the Rosewood Crescent Hotel with Taste of the World, which includes a Silent Auction benefiting Dallas Farmers Market Friends. Enjoy the evening as you stroll and sample award-winning wines from the Dallas Morning News Wine Competition, the largest of its kind in the Southwest. Bid on a variety of culinary and specialty items benefiting Farmers Market Friends, with live Latin Jazz by Mosaic to keep you moving as you taste prize-winning wines, savor specialty cuisine, and meet chefs from Dallas’ favorite restaurants. The Festival’s ultimate evening begins at 5:30 p.m.
To purchase tickets & get more info you can visit the Festival's official web site: 24th Annual Dallas Wine and Food Festival
To learn more about the good work ot the of the Dallas Farmers Market Friends go to: Farmers Market Friends
To listen to an interview with Stacey Caldwell, President of the Dallas Farmers Market Friends, go to: Podcast Interview
California Vineyard (© Rboncato | Dreamstime.com)
Sales of California wines in the U.S. rose 6% to a retail value of $18.9 billion in 2007, according to the Wine Institute. The industry group says the impressive growth was fueled by strong gains by premium California wines. The Wine Institute puts the retail value of worldwide sales of California wines at $30 billion.
The U.S. wine market continues to be dominated by Merlot, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, which together account for 45% of total wine sales. Sales of Merlot are more than double those of Pinot Noir, the next best-selling red wine. Domestic premium-priced Merlot is displaying particular strength, and now constitutes 17% of the domestic premium red wine market.
California’s winegrowers have shown a strong commitment to sustainable agricultural practices. The adoption of integrated pest management (IPM) methods is being aided by a $150,000 grant from the American Farmland Trust to the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance. The Wine Institute describes IPM as “a sustainable approach to pest control that provides a variety of tactics to prevent, avoid or suppress weeds, insects and crop diseases, while protecting human health, the environment and the profitability of agriculture.”
Many of the state’s winegrowers recognize that being good stewards of the land to maintain a beautiful and healthy environment is good for business, the surrounding community, and wine country visitors. For many the benefit is personal, since vintners and their families often live at their wineries.
For more info on the California wine industry go to: The Wine Institute
To listen to American Feast's interview with the Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group go to: A Talk with the Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group
Champagne & Flowers (photo by Robert Harrison, courtesy of morguefile.com)
It seems not everybody is worried about a possible global recession being on the horizon. Some very wealthy people recently gathered in Paris to buy a special edition of Perrier-Jouet Champagne, just made available for 50,000 euros or about $79,000 for a case of 12 bottles.
But you’d better hurry if you need a case of the exceptional bubbly. An article from the Associated Press posted on AZcentral.com reports that, “Many of the 100 box sets available have already been snapped up by celebrities including former Bond girl Sophie Marceau, singer Marianne Faithfull and actress Victoria Abril.”
The glitzy price tag gets you more than just sparkling wine. It “includes a one-on-one session with cellar master Herve Deschamps.” The well-heeled customers are also offered an haute cuisine dinner and “an overnight stay at Perrier-Jouet's Belle-Epoque mansion in Epernay, east of Paris, that is home to 200 pieces of original modern art.”
It all sounds very nice, but just a little too extravagant. Instead, we'll savor some of America’s great sparkling wines. That way we'’ll have plenty left over for artisanal treats to serve with the bubbly.
If you’d like to read the Associated Press report cited above go to: Champagne selling for $6,300
Vineyard in New Zealand (photo by Allan Kilgour, courtesy of morguefile.com)
Twentysomething adults are avid wine drinkers, adventurous in spirit, unpretentious, and show a keen interest in learning more about wines from all over the world. Using internet search engines to glean information on wine regions and varietals from around the globe comes naturally to youthful wine lovers of the Millennial generation.
The website of the Wine Market Council, an industry trade group, says its research shows:
…the Millennial generation, now entering young adulthood, is exhibiting the same receptivity to wine that leading edge Baby Boomers did more than 30 years ago. Like the Baby Boom generation, their numbers are so great as to make their dominance in the market inevitable, and they offer the wine industry the kind of growth potential not seen in more than thirty years.
Regarding Millenials, an article in the Los Angeles Times says, “When it comes to wine, they drink more, know more, spend more and enjoy a broader international selection of wines, on average, than any generation before them.”
Millennials in Los Angeles who love wine and want to expand their knowledge have formed a weekly tasting group, bringing in new members with a posting on Craigslist, keeping in touch via an email list, and sharing tasting notes on the group’s website.
If you’d like to read the Los Angeles Times article cited above go to: Young Winos: The Millennial generation is a thirsty one
To visit the website of the Young Winos tasting group go to: Young Winos of Los Angeles
Riesling Plantings in Yakima Valley (Images courtesy of Mercer Estates)
Generations of experience have come together to launch Mercer Estates and produce premium wines from grapes grown in Washington State’s Columbia Valley and Yakima Valley. Two families, the Mercers and the Hogues, both began as winegrowers in the 1970s and developed stellar reputations for their vineyards. Now, they’ve joined hands and put together a team dedicated to making wines that exceed expectations.
In the U.S., only California produces more wine than the State of Washington. The two states enjoy a variety of terroirs capable of producing premium wines prized for their distinctive qualities. Some recent sampling suggested that the inaugural release of Mercer’s new line makes a nice addition to the fine wines produced in those coastal states.
The whites we tasted included the Riesling 2007, the Sauvignon Blanc 2007, and the Pinot Gris 2007. We considered the Sauvignon and the Pinot to be good candidates for accompanying seafood entrées, and cheese and charcuterie platters. The tangy and refreshing Riesling was a real delight and we’ll be serving it as a dessert wine at an upcoming gathering.
The reds we tasted were the Merlot 2005 and the Cabernet Sauvignon 2005. We felt that Merlot wines caught an undeserved slight in the film, “Sideways.” In that otherwise terrific film, the protagonist vehemently proclaimed that he would not drink Merlot. If that put you off the hearty grape, give Mercer’s Merlot a try and rediscover why the grape became so popular before the film dealt its blow.
The Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 we tasted was impressive, delivering full, rich flavors with a long length. It’s ready for drinking by discerning red wine lovers and promises to develop further with additional wine cellar aging. This one could be a signature Cabernet from Washington's Columbia Valley. Some day soon we'll savor it with some succulent grilled lamb chops.
Winemaker David Forsyth
Sustainable Winegrowing
At the tasting we had the pleasure of speaking with Winemaker David Forsyth and asked him about Mercer’s commitment to sustainable winegrowing. His response was an impressive listing of the measures the winery has already undertaken and continues implementing to ensure environmental responsibility. We won’t relay every one, but we were pleased to hear about the use of drip irrigation to eliminate the waste of water, composting to produce natural fertilizer, and using small, low-fuel vehicles to minimize the winery's carbon imprint.
Time-tested winegrowers, unique terroir, sustainable farming methods, and a commitment to exceeding the expectations of wine lovers should serve the new winery very well in the years to come. We expect the folks at Mercer Estates will provide plenty of pleasurable sipping for those looking to enjoy the fruit of their labors. We plan to be among them.
To learn more about the new Washington State winery go to: Mercer Estates
To view a previous post on the topic of Washington State wines go to: Washington Is Wine Country
California Winery (© Galina Barskaya | Dreamstime.com)
The falling U.S. dollar may be bringing ever rising food and fuel prices for Americans, but the weak dollar has also made wine from California look like a bargain in the eyes of wine lovers abroad.
The Los Angeles Times has reported that wine exports grew by almost 9% to a record $951 million in 2007. The Wine Institute, a major industry trade group, says California wineries make 95% of the U.S. wine sold overseas. Wines from California are sold in 125 countries and much of the recent growth in exports has been among wines sold at premium price points.
The United States remains as the world’s largest market for wine. In 2007, Americans drank more than $30 billion woth of wine, a 4% increase over the previous year.
If you’d like to read the article in the L.A. Times cited above go to: Salud: Vintners raise a glass to the weaker dollar
If you’d like to listen to a podcast interview with the Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group go to: A Talk with the Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group
If you’d like to listen to a podcast interview with Bouchaine Vineyards in Napa Valley go to: A Talk With Bouchaine Vineyards' Lee Hodo
Grapes on the Vine (photo by Tony Roberts, courtesy of morguefile.com)
Once a country imbibing primarily beer and spirits, in recent decades the United States has evolved as a nation of wine lovers and winegrowers. In 2007, wine sales topped $30 billion, a 4% increase over the previous year.
An article in the Sacramento Bee points out that the "industry's most expensive products continued to be its best–sellers: For bottles $12 and up, sales rose by 20% or better." According to the article, "Import brands accounted for nearly two-thirds of the growth of wine sales last year." Imported wines account for 31% of sales in stores, but about 43% of the wine sold at restaurants.
It seems there's been an explosion in the in the number of sommeliers who are 20-somethings and they've played a large role in the success of Italian and Spanish wines. The young wine experts are often employed by high-end restaurants and looking for something handcrafted and unique. While having fun with wine these sommeliers are also looking to make a statement.
California winegrowers are being urged to take heed of emerging trends . Joshua Greene, editor and publisher of Wine & Spirits magazine is quoted as saying, "Their challenge is to find a wine that they're as excited about as the chef is … about the flavor of his vegetables from the farmers market."
If you'd like to read the Sacramento Bee article cited above go to: Young set pace on wine trends
Grape Vines (photo by Pedro Jose Perez, courtesy of morguefile.com)
Some promising news from the California Farm Bureau Federation:
California winegrape growers are beginning to buy more vines for new vineyards. Nursery operators say they notice particular demand this planting season for two varieties, pinot gros and pinot noir. In addition, demand is increasing for traditional favorites such as chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon. Demand for winegrape vines is especially strong from farmers with ground in the Lodi and delta regions.
California's winegrowers have been consistently producing world-class wines for many years. News that there will be even more of the same in years to come is good news indeed.
For previous posts about California winegrowers go to:
1. A Talk with the Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group
2. A Talk With Bouchaine Vineyards' Lee Hodo
3. Sonoma & Napa Wines Still a Family Affair
A Napa Oak Overlooks Vines (image courtesy of Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group)
The Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group was formed in 1995 to promote integrated pest management practices in Napa County, California. The mission of the Group is to identify and promote winegrowing practices that are economically viable, socially responsible and environmentally sound.
Specifically, the Group promotes viticultural land stewardship through educational outreach to:
• Optimize ecological stability and winegrape productivity and quality by understanding and emulating natural processes such as biodiversity, carbon and nutrient cycling, and plant-soil interactions.
• Reduce pesticide inputs through cultural practices, biological control, and use of alternative materials.
• Promote soil health through erosion control, reduced tillage, soil analysis, and the amendment of soils with cover crops and compost.
• Enhance returns on investment by promoting the value-added nature of sustainable winegrapes along with terroir and increased vineyard longevity.
The Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group is comprised of members representing Napa winegrape growers, vintners, and local government and educational organizations. The Group represents over 25,000 acres of farmed vineyard land and over 20,000 acres of un-farmed/wild land as of March 2007.
In a 5-part podcast interview, American Feast's Doug Ferber has a talk with the Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group to learn more about their important work.
To listen to Part 1 click on: A Talk with the Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group Part 1
To listen to Part 2 click on: A Talk with the Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group Part 2
To listen to Part 3 click on:
A Talk with the Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group Part 3
To listen to Part 4 click on:
A Talk with the Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group Part 4
To listen to Part 5 click on:
A Talk with the Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group Part 5
Winery on Long Island (© Photographer: Jimmy Lopes | Agency: Dreamstime.com)
"Perfect weather for grapes -- and lots of it -- has produced the best crop the Long Island wine region has seen in years." That's how Mark Harrington of Newsday decribes the reports he's getting from Long Island vintners across the board.
Of course, winegrowers are known for their hyperbole when it comes to lauding their products, but this year's praise seems to cover the full range of the region's varietals. In past year's there have been promising seasons that were disrupted by flooding, drought, or cool weather arriving early. In 2007, conditions have been near perfect.
We've enjoyed tours of wine country on the North Fork of Long Island's East End. We were there when the fall leaves were changing on a sunny day; just gorgeous. The red varietals for tasting included merlot, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, malbec, petit verdot, syrah, and pinot noir. If it's white wine that suits your taste, you can sip pinot blanc, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, riesling, semillon, pinot gris, and Gewurztraminer.
If you'd like to read the Newsday article cited above go to: LI wineries say harvest is best in years
For plenty more info on Long Island Wine Country go to: The Long Island Wine Council
Life can be tough, but every so often great news arrives. We heard some great news recently when we attended a presentation at New York’s French Culinary Institute. The presenter was Professor Roger Corder, who has authored, “The Red Wine Diet, Drink wine everyday and live a long and healthy life” (Penguin Group USA); a promising title.
The professor is a charming man who likes eating well and drinking good wine. He’s spent nearly a decade solving the mystery of the “French Paradox”: Why is it the French have a diet high in unhealthy fats, yet lower rates of heart disease than people with similar diets?
Here’s the great news: It’s because they drink two or three glasses of red wine everyday, protecting the body’s vascular system. And, as Sir William Osler put it in 1892, “A man is as old as his arteries.”
Not all red wines deliver equal benefits. Those who live in southwestern France, the Gers region specifically, reap the greatest benefits from daily imbibing. It seems the wines from Gers are particularly high in procyanidins, the component that Professor Corder’s research found to be the hero of vascular health. The presentation had more good news for us; procyanidins are also found in dark chocolate. His eating program features other procy-rich foods such as walnuts, berries, apples, and pomegranates.
We asked Professor Corder which wine-growing regions in America produced the best wines for protecting our health. He said that there are 3,000 registered winemakers in the U.S., and he hadn’t had time to visit them all. (We suggested he get on it.) He did say that wines grown in the State of Washington held great promise for a long and healthy life.
In the chapter of his book providing guidance for searchers of the heart healthiest wines he wrote, “Cabernet Sauvignon is the grape of choice for classic California reds, and it has given me the best results.” Pinto Noirs are also a very good choice. Among the wines he studied from the State of Washington he obtained the best results for heart health from a “Bordeaux-style blend from Matthews cellars: Red”.
The book offers many more selections of heart healthy wines from around the world and solid advice on judging any other wines you might come across. A sampling of Professor Corder’s recommendations convinced us that plenty of heart healthy wines have the richness and depth of flavor to please wine enthusiasts of all stripes.
Enjoying fine wine in moderation to preserve your health is pretty easy advice to take. You’ve probably guessed that binge drinking is out, but abstinence may be less healthy than two or three glasses of red wine a day. Professor Corder illustrated his findings with a quote from Paracelsus, the famed 16th-century physician who wrote, “Wine is a food, a medicine and a poison - it’s just a question of dose.”
The scientific research in the book is presented in clear language with enough humor to make it an entertaining read. We’ve made it part of our library, and expect to be referring to it for many years to come.
Professor Corder’s conclusion at the end of his presentation, “Drinking procy-rich wines in moderation and eating dark chocolate could help you live a longer healthier life.”
Some days the news just doesn’t get any better.
If you’d like to purchase Roger Corder’s groundbreaking book go to: The Red Wine Diet, Drink wine everyday and live a long and healthy life
Red Wine (photo by Michael Connors, courtesy of morguefile.com)
This is the kind of scientific finding we just love to read about. Researchers have found that the habit of having a glass of red wine with dinner doesn’t just make your meal more enjoyable, it can also lead to a healthier heart.
An article in The Buffalo News explains, “Red wine is a significant dietary source of saponins, plant compounds known to help lower cholesterol.” The finding comes from researchers at the University of California, Davis. Scientists have long believed that drinking red wine in moderation was beneficial for a healthy heart. The reduction in cardiovascular disease was attributed to an antioxidant found in red wine called resveratrol. Now, the researchers from the University of California, Davis have concluded that, saponins are just as important as resveratrol in promoting heart health.
So remember, a glass of red wine with dinner and a little dark chocolate afterwards for a healthy heart. The science is on our side!
To read the article from The Buffalo News cited above & learn about multiple health benefits attributed to red wine go to: The benefits of red wine
To view a previous post on the topic go to: Drink Wine for Healthy Teeth
Savoring Wine (photo by Luis C. Tejo, courtesy of morguefile.com)
Seasoned wine lovers know the quality of a wine often bears little relation to its price tag. Expensive wines can be disappointing vintages from great wineries. Wines that haven’t achieved media recognition can be had at a price representing incredible value.
But with all the wines on the market, and seemingly endless introductions of more choices, finding those affordable wonders can be tough. Luckily for wine lovers, writer Eric Asimov of the New York Times arranged a tasting by wine aficionados and has written an article on their selections for the best wines for $10 or less.
As you’d expect, finding those wines was no easy task. Mr. Asimov says in his Wines of the Times article,
Frankly, the $10-and-under price range may represent the cheapest wines, but I feel the best values are in the $10-to-$20 range, where you can find sensational wines made by small producers using traditional techniques. These sorts of wines are much harder to find at $10 and under.
To read the article cited above & see which inexpensive wines made a fine impression go to: Happiness for $10 or Less
Beautiful Bouchaine Vineyards in Napa Valley (photo by Dona Kopol-Bonick)
Bouchaine Vineyards inhabits the oldest continually operated winery in the Carneros wine region of California's Napa Valley. The planting of vines on the site by pioneer Boon Fly dates back to the mid-1800s.
Today, the family-owned winery is dedicated to the pursuit of delicious Pinot Noir and Chardonnay; the varietals best suited to the climate and soils of the estate’s lovely 100-acre vineyard. Besides being a venerable producer of some of America's finest estate wines, Bouchaine Vineyards is one of the country's most devoted adherents to principals of sustainable agriculture.
In a 6-part podcast interview, American Feast's Doug Ferber has a talk with Bouchaine's Lee Hodo to learn more about what sets Bouchaine apart.
That's Lee with the trusty red pickup.
To listen to Part 1 click on: A Talk With Bouchaine's Lee Hodo (Part 1)
To listen to Part 2 click on: A Talk With Bouchaine's Lee Hodo (Part 2)
To listen to Part 3 click on: A Talk With Bouchaine's Lee Hodo (Part 3)
To listen to Part 4 click on: A Talk With Bouchaine's Lee Hodo (Part 4)
To listen to Part 5 click on: A Talk With Bouchaine's Lee Hodo (Part 5)
To listen to Part 6 click on: A Talk With Bouchaine's Lee Hodo (Part 6)
(photo courtesy of Windy City Wine Festival)
Epicurean Delights!
From Friday, September 7th to Saturday, September 8th, Chicago will become an epicurean’s delight when the Windy City Wine Festival brings in more than 250 fine wines from across the globe. The Festival takes place at one of Chicago’s most lovely locales, Daley Bicentennial Plaza in Grant Park, located at 337 East Randolph Street, over the BP Bridge east of Millennium Park. The Festival will run from 4:00 to 10:00 pm on Friday, and 2:00 to 10:00 pm on Saturday. A portion of the proceeds made at the Festival will be donated to the Grant Park Conservatory.
Live Music
As guests enjoy strolling through the park indulging their palates with outstanding wine varieties of the highest character, they’ll be serenaded by live jazz and lite rock played by top local talent, including The New Invaders and The Michael Heaton Band. Participants can easily navigate their way throughout the park and make note of their favorite wines with the detailed map of the Festival vendors.
Fine Foods & a Global Selection of Wines
To complement the wine’s finish, many of the Chicago area’s finest restaurants will serve gourmet specialties. With the breathtaking vista of Lake Michigan’s shore and the Chicago skyline as the backdrop, the Windy City Wine Festival offers an event to remember not only for wine connoisseurs, but also interested new comers to the world of wine.
“We’re excited to be offering new blends this year from the outstanding wineries of Germany, France, Italy, Austria, Spain, Portugal, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Chile and Argentina, not to mention all of the wine regions in the United States including the Napa Valley, Sonoma, the Russian River, Washington State, New York State, Illinois and Missouri,” said Chad Tennant, one of the Windy City Wine Festival organizers.
Guest Speakers
Among others, the Guest speakers for the Seminar Stage will include the acclaimed Chef Gale Gand, the award-winning Sommelier Belinda Chang, and Ann Thrupp, the Director of Sustainability for Fetzer Vineyards who will give a presentation on “Growing Green”.
Tickets
Tickets are $25 per person. This ticket includes a souvenir wine glass, 10 tastings, with additional tastings available at 10 for $5, a Festival Program, Food & Wine seminars, cooking demonstrations, musical entertainment and the opportunity to purchase wine at a 10% Festival discount.
A Designated Driver ticket is also available for $15 per person and includes two non-alcoholic drinks, a Festival Program, Food & Wine seminars, cooking demonstrations, musical entertainment and a souvenir wine glass upon departure. Attendees under 21 are admitted for free when accompanied by a paid adult. Ample parking is available under Daley Bicentennial Plaza in Grant Park.
Tickets can be purchased online at the Festival’s official web site: Windy City Wine Festival
Tickets can be purchased by phone at 847-382-1480. Tickets will be available for purchase on-site at Daley Bicentennial Plaza.
Tickets are $20 per person for groups of 15 or more if purchased in advance. To reserve group tickets call Scott at 847-382-1480 or GroupTix at 1-877-4GRP-TIX (1-877-447-7849).
The ever popular Seafood Art and Wine Festival, now in it’s 13th year, showcases some of the best of California’s wineries, breweries, artists, and craftspeople. This event also features outstanding regional musicians and of course, a delicious selection of seafood. A kid's funzone, environmental exhibits, and other fun and new aspects of the Festival make this an event not to be missed.
So set aside the weekend of August 25th & 26th, and get yourselves to the Watts Ranch, 6855 Bodega Highway, Bodega, California. On both days the Festival opens at 10:00 am, and closes at 6:00 pm on Saturday and at 5:00 pm on Sunday.
Food & Beverages
Barbecued oysters, crab cakes, cedar plank salmon, coconut shrimp, albacore wrapped in bacon, and seafood stew are just a few of the entrees which will be available at the Festival this year. Various non-seafood entrees including vegetarian dishes, desserts, and espresso drinks will also be offered. The expansive wine and microbrew tasting, features a wonderful selection of wineries and breweries from Sonoma, Napa, and Mendocino counties.
Art & Crafts
There will be over 100 juried artists and craftspeople offering many original works for sale throughout the weekend. Exhibitors come from throughout California, and out of state as well.
Live Entertainment
There is an outstanding mix of entertainment on 3 stages at this event. Coming to the Main Stage for the first time, all the way from Austin, Texas, is the incomparable Marcia Ball. The Festival’s organizers are equally excited to bring back the beloved Pride & Joy who rocked the Festival last year. Other favorites are returning, and lots of new and exciting performers will be adding to the merriment this year.
Beneficiaries
Proceeds from the event will go to the Bodega Volunteer Fire Department, serving Bodega and it's surrounding communities, and Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods, a non-profit organization working in conjunction with the California State Parks in the Russian River region.
Ticket Prices
Admission is $12 for Adults, $10 for Seniors over 60, and $8 for ages 12 -16. Kids under 12 get in for free! Sorry, no dogs allowed this year. There’s ample free parking in the ranch parking lot.
To get more info visit the Festival’s official web site: Bodega Seafood Art & Wine Festival
To learn more about the all volunteer fire department benefiting from the Festival go to: Bodega Volunteer Fire Department
To learn more about the environmental nonprofit benefiting from the Festival go to: Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods
Wine Barrels (photo by Dani Simmonds, courtesy of morguefile.com)
No one likes spending time in the dentist’s chair getting cavities filled.
Now it turns out you can help avoid that experience by indulging in a nice glass of wine. And it doesn’t matter if you prefer red or white; they both work. You can even drink non-alcoholic wine.
This pleasant little surprise for wine drinkers is courtesy of a study undertaken by Italy’s University of Pavia, recently published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry.
According to the researchers, “Wine contains a number of biologically active compounds with beneficial effects on human health…Findings show that wine is active against oral streptococci and S. pyogenes and suggest that it enhances oral health.”
So raise a glass of your favorite vintage with those you love and toast Good Dental Health!
If you’d like to read more about the University of Pavia’s study go to: Antibacterial Activity of Red and White Wine against Oral Streptococci
Napa Valley Vineyard (© Photographer: Tom Purcell | Agency: Dreamstime.com)
Recent times have often been difficult for family farms, but winegrowing in California’s Sonoma County and Napa Valley remains a mostly family-owned enterprise. About 360 of the 425 wineries in those 2 regions are family-owned.
The multitude of owners has been credited with a willingness to experiment and seek ways to produce the truly distinctive wines that have made California one of the world’s great wine regions. Family owners are valued for their ties to the local community and practicing land stewardship in a way that reflects their personal stake in the beauty and sustainability of the land.
To read a full article on the topic from the San Francisco Business Times go to: Family operations thrive in the Wine Country
To learn more about sustainable winegrowing go to: Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group
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