(©Image courtesy of Ron Bez for Paso Robles Wine Country)
Rich, spicy and full of dark fruit flavors, American Zinfandel is a red varietal that produces robust wines that go beautifully with the flavorful fare from the tradition of grilling steaks, fresh-caught seafood, and seasonal vegetables brushed with olive oil.
Mysterious Origins
In the 1880’s Zinfandel grapes were the most popular variety being planted in California, but their exact origin remains a mystery. The varietal was once believed to be America’s only indigenous grape capable of producing good wine, but its DNA indicates it may have roots in southern Italy. The mystery remains and there is no European equivalent.
Whatever its origins, Zinfandel is an American success story. It may not have a lineage traceable to noble roots, but neither do most Americans and quite a few have overcome humble beginnings to achieve greatness. Zinfandel has attracted a large and devoted following.
2010 Zinfandel Festival
A fair number of Zinfandel enthusiasts border on the fanatic, an amiable army worthy of the label Zinhead Nation. Some of them are certain to be in attendance at the 18th Annual Zinfandel Festival which will begin on Friday, March 19th and continue through the weekend. Centrally located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, along California’s Central Coast, Paso Robles Wine Country is the state’s fastest growing wine region. It encompasses more than 26,000 vineyard acres and more than 180 wineries.
Attendees will enjoy vast selections of Zinfandel and Zinfandel blends, as well as a Wine Country Auction featuring unique items only offered during the Zinfandel Festival. In addition to the Zin Tasting and Wine Country Auction, more than 140 area wineries offer a compilation of individual events such as winemaker dinners, barrel samples and musical entertainment throughout the weekend.
The ZIP Ticket Level is for Zinfandel enthusiasts who cannot get enough of this bold, bodacious berry. ZIP attendees may zip in early to the Zin Tasting and receive special benefits including an exclusive taste of the 2010 Zinfandel Collaborative Blend. ZIP ticket holders will also experience auction items exclusively for them and other special surprises throughout the evening.
“Zin fans will find new enhancements to a traditional walk around tasting integrated into a special Wine Country Auction,” said Stacie Jacob, executive director of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance. “We invite you to check out quality wines featuring Paso Robles’ heritage grape."
The newly formatted Wine Country Auction features items showcased at winery pouring booths, giving wine enthusiasts a chance to learn about the Zinfandel producers of Paso Robles. One-of-a-kind auction blocks include wine tasting retreats, dinners with Paso Robles producers, VIP tours, seminars and special large format bottles signed by the winemakers themselves. The area’s top chefs will also be serving Zinfandel friendly culinary creations.
For more information and to purchase tickets, go to: 2010 Zinfandel Festival, Zin Tasting and Wine Country Auction
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Napa Valley Winery (© Don Mace | Dreamstime.com)
The California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance has announced the introduction of a statewide certification program that provides third-party verification of a vineyard's adherence to a "process of continuous improvement" in the adoption and implementation of sustainable winegrowing practices.
Open to all California wineries and vineyards as a voluntary option, CSWA's new program requires applicants to meet 58 prerequisite criteria to be eligible for the program, assess winery and/or vineyard operations, create and implement an annual action plan, and show improvement over time.
The goals of the new certification program are to enhance transparency, encourage statewide participation and advance the entire California wine industry toward best practices in environmental stewardship, conservation of natural resources, and socially equitable business practices. Three years in the making, the certification program is the first statewide program available to both wineries and vineyards.
Finest Quality Grapes Produced with Eco-Friendly Practices
"Third-party certification helps California's wine community speed efforts to create a healthier environment, stronger communities and vibrant businesses," said Robert P. (Bobby) Koch, Wine Institute President and CEO. "The program reflects the California wine community's commitment to continually produce the finest quality wine and grapes with practices that are environmentally and socially responsible."
"The scale on which California's wine community is adopting and expanding sustainable practices is truly impressive, as the state is the fourth leading wine producer in the world," said California Association of Winegrape Growers Board Chairman Kim Ledbetter Bronson of Vino Farms in Lodi. "CSWA's mission is to bring recognition to the California wine industry as a change leader in the global marketplace and serve as a model for other industries."
To date, 1,566 vineyard and winery organizations representing 68.1% of California's 526,000 wine acres have evaluated their vineyards and wineries with CSWA's Code of Sustainable Winegrowing Practices Self-Assessment Workbook. Wine Institute and CAWG established the Sustainable Winegrowing Program in 2002 and incorporated CSWA a year later as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to continue implementing the program.
"With a majority of our industry already involved in CSWA's Sustainable Winegrowing Program, the new certification option evolved as the appropriate next step," said CSWA Executive Director Allison Jordan.
2009 Wine Community Sustainability Report
CSWA has also released its 2009 Wine Community Sustainability Report, measuring the California wine industry's adoption over five years of 227 best management practices from the Code of Sustainable Winegrowing Practices Self-Assessment Workbook.
The strengths of the state's industry are practices for viticulture, soil management and ecosystem management. Areas identified as opportunities for improvement include energy efficiency, materials handling, waste reduction and environmentally preferred purchasing.
To view the full press release on which this item was based, go to: California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance Launches Third Party Verification Program
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California Vineyard (© Rboncato | Dreamstime.com)
Wine.com, America’s top online wine retailer, has announced its third annual Wine.com Top 100, a list based entirely on customer preferences.
"We are excited to offer this unique list for the third year in a row," said Rich Bergsund, Wine.com CEO. "Our customers are trendsetters when it comes to wine, and our Top 100 list displays these purchasing trends. In comparison to the Top 100 lists from different publications, it’s always interesting to see a list based solely on what customers are buying and enjoying."
This year’s Top 100 list reflects current economic trends, with over 75 of the wines coming in under $20 and only two wines above $100. "Value is clearly the running theme this year. Our customers are taking advantage of the excellent quality wine available at these value price points," said Michael Osborn, Founder and Vice-President of Merchandising at Wine.com.
Surprisingly, the average selling price of this year's Top 100 was $23.50 per bottle, an increase of 15% over last year, perhaps a reflection of increased consumer confidence amongst Wine.com shoppers. Top 100 unit volumes were also up over 10% and accelerating in more recent months. Wine.com's total unit volume for November 2009 grew more than 30% compared with November 2008.
California Wine Hits #1
The top wine of 2009 is the Cambria Julia's Vineyard 2006 Pinot Noir, the first Californian wine to hit the #1 spot. Hailing from the Santa Maria Valley of California, priced under $20, and carrying two 90+ point ratings, this wine embodies many characteristics of the top 100 list. In fact, while Wine.com customers voted for this wine with their wallets, Wine Enthusiast magazine chose this same wine for their number one spot as well.
Another Californian wine in the top 5, Tin Roof Merlot 2005, was also praiseed by Wine Enthusiast magazine, "I found myself returning to this Merlot again and again, because it’s such a good, gentle, easy sipper. It’s a pleasure to drink one that’s so nicely dry and balanced. Does a great job balancing ripe berry and stone fruits with earthy herbs and spices."
As a single region, California remained the most popular, with 34 wines making the list. Washington State was America’s next most popular region with four wines making the list.
Ratings still play a key role in consumer choices. 93 of the wines on this year’s list – just one less than last year’s list - are rated 90 points or higher by industry critics, including Wine Spectator, The Wine Advocate and Wine Enthusiast magazine.
Red Remains King
Red wine remains the king, with 69 red wines on the list. Cabernet Sauvignon is the front-runner for the third year in a row, with 22 wines. Syrah/Shiraz (12) and Malbec (6) are the other popular red categories, similar to last year. In the white wine category, of the 23 on the list, Chardonnay (10) remains most popular, while Sauvignon Blanc (8) is a close second. Seven sparkling wines and Champagnes made the list this year.
Consumers signaled interest in "green" wines, wines that use sustainable, organic and/or biodynamic practices in the vineyard and/or winemaking process, with 4 wines on the list, up from zero last year. Wines finished with screw caps were surprisingly well represented with 22 on the list, indicating continuing consumer acceptance even for ultra-premium wines.
About Wine.com
Wine.com is the nation's #1 online wine retailer, according to Internet Retailer magazine’s annual ranking of websites by revenue, offering thousands of wines, wine gifts, gift baskets and monthly wine clubs. Wine.com’s mission is to be the ultimate resource for wine enthusiasts, whether shopping for themselves or sending a gift, by offering a great selection, low prices, convenient delivery and helpful information.
Wine.com is the world’s most visited wine web site, according to research conducted by comScore Media Metrix. For more information click on the ad near the top of the right hand column of this page.
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Barbeque Shrimp (photo by Chef Tony Hamati, Bravo Bistro, Scottsdale, Ariz., courtesy of Ocean Garden Products)
The National Restaurant Association’s annual survey of more than 1,800 professional chefs reveals that local sourcing of ingredients, sustainability and nutrition will be the hottest trends on restaurant menus in 2010. Locally grown produce, locally sourced meats and seafood, sustainability, mini-desserts and locally produced wine and beer top the list of nearly 215 culinary items in the “What’s Hot in 2010” survey.
Rounding out the top 10 trends are nutritious kids’ meals, half-portions, farm-branded ingredients, gluten-free/food-allergy conscious meals and sustainable seafood. The chefs surveyed were members of the American Culinary Federation .
“No one has a better view of restaurant menu trends than the chefs of the nation’s nearly one million restaurants, and that is why we survey these culinary professionals on what hot, new trends we’ll see in the coming year,” said Dawn Sweeney, President of the Association. “The top trends this year – local sourcing, sustainability and nutrition – reflect wider societal trends and consumers’ growing interest in these issues. Many restaurants are sourcing some of their ingredients locally, and you often see chefs shopping at farmer’s markets to create a host of better-for-you options that today’s diners want.”
Michael Ty, president of the American Culinary Federation, agreed. “This is retro – it’s what we did in the past when chefs relied on local markets because we did not have the luxury of today’s transportation system. We are going back to our roots and the foundation of our craft that made it more pleasurable.”
Farm-to-Fork
The leading culinary theme revealed by the survey is sustainability, which is ranked as the third hottest trend. Whether applied to produce, meat, seafood or alcoholic beverages, the concepts of environmentally friendly practices and local sourcing – farm-to-fork – are appealing to both restaurant operators and consumers for several reasons, including freshness, minimal transportation, and supporting local communities and businesses.
Nutrition is another culinary theme that ranks high on the list of trends at number 15. Healthful options for children, produce, superfruits, bite-size and half portions, and food allergy conscious and gluten-free meals all rank in the top 20, illustrating that consumer interest in health and nutrition continues to grow and that restaurants are responding.
Other menu trends in the top 20 include farm-/estate-branded ingredients, regional ethnic cuisine, non-traditional fish (including barramundi and Arctic char), and newly fabricated cuts of meat (including Denver steak and pork flat iron). Simplicity as a culinary theme and smaller portions for a smaller price are also menu trends for 2010, reflecting the shift in consumer preferences toward value and comfort during the economic downturn.
Local Wine & Beer
When it comes to the drink menu, locally produced wine and beer is the fifth hottest trend on the What’s Hot in 2010 survey. Other alcohol items in the top 20 chef-rated menu trends include culinary/savory cocktails and artisan liquor.
Topping categories within the survey are: amuse bouche and mini-burgers/sliders in appetizers; quinoa and braised vegetables in side items/starches; ethnic-inspired and traditional ethnic items in breakfast/brunch; bite-size desserts and artisan/house-made ice cream in desserts; regional and fusion in ethnic cuisines; artisan cheeses and black garlic in ingredients; and specialty iced tea and organic coffee in nonalcoholic beverages.
In the preparation methods category, liquid nitrogen freezing/chilling was ranked as the number-one trend, followed by braising, sous vide, smoking and oil-poaching/confit.
Eco-Friendly Equipment
Also included in the survey were questions about kitchen and concept trends. The chefs rated environmentally friendly equipment as the top kitchen equipment trend, and the hottest restaurant concept in 2010 as restaurants with gardens.
When it comes to sources for trendy food and beverage ideas, the chefs ranked television, trade shows and independent restaurants as the best places to get inspired.
To view the entire press release on which this item was based, go to: National Restaurant Association
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Napa Valley Winery (© Don Mace | Dreamstime.com)
Changing demographics, a weakened dollar and health benefits have all contributed to the growth of domestic wine sales in the U.S. for the fifteenth consecutive year, according to the recently released 2009 Wine Handbook.
Overall wine consumption in the U.S. rose 0.9% percent in 2008 to 294.7 million 9-liter cases. Although the growth rate has slowed slightly due to the current recessionary environment, consumers have become more frugal with their purchases, trading down toward value-priced wines in both the on-and off-premise wine purchases.
In more good news for American winegrowers, changing demographic trends cited in the 2009 Wine Handbook are favorable for the wine industry. The 70 million people that make up the "Millennial" generation (age 21 to 30) are changing perceptions of wine. This generation is not as sophisticated about wine as preceding generations and is willing to experiment with wines at lower price points.
Another factor accounting for the rise in U.S. wine consumption is the weakened dollar which has driven up prices of imported wine selections. This has triggered an increase in sales among domestic vintages that are priced more competitively.
"Imported wines dropped 1.8 %, while domestics rose 1.9% -- a stark contrast to the recent trend when imported table wines fueled not only the growth of that sector, but of the entire industry," says Eric Schmidt, manager of information services for the Beverage Information Group based in Norwalk, Connecticut.
In addition, continued association between moderate wine consumption and decreased risk of heart disease, cancer and stroke remains a key driver of wine's popularity among an increasingly health-conscious society.
The 2009 Wine Handbook is produced by the Beverage Information Group, a leading source for U.S. wine sales and consumption trends. It includes wine consumption analysis; the top 50 metro markets; supplier performance; advertising expenditures; consumer drinking preferences; and economic/demographic data.
If you’d like to read the press release on which this item was based go to: U.S. Wine Consumption Continues to Grow
To view previous posts on the health benefits of moderate wine consumption go to:
1. Scientists Believe Red Wine Can Slow Aging
2. Drink Red Wine & Eat Dark Chocolate Everyday for a Long & Healthy Life
3. Drink a Glass of Red Wine for a Healthy Heart
4. Drink Wine for Healthy Teeth
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To follow American Feast's Founder on Twitter go to: Jeff Deasy on Twitter
 
Wolffer Winery & Vineyards (Images courtesy of Wolffer Winery)
Wölffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponack, New York is pleased to announce the official date of their annual Wölffer Estate Harvest Party: Sunday, October 11. One of the most anticipated events on the fall Hamptons' social calendar, guests of all ages are invited to partake in harvest fun, and share the bounty and beauty of the season at Wölffer Estate.
A sumptuous harvest lunch, with an emphasis on local ingredients, will be served and paired with award-winning Wölffer Estate wines. Enjoy the feast at the large family-style tables arranged on the lawn. Live music, performed by local artists, will add to the celebration. Adding to the excitement will be the final round of the horse jumping competition of the Wölffer Derby held by the Wölffer Estate Stables at the vineyard ring.
This year's Harvest Party festivities include grape picking and stomping, a petting zoo, and barrel rolling races. For additional family fun, the Harvest Party will also offer pony and hay rides, face painting, a fall arts and crafts station, and many new events.
Wölffer Estate Vineyard Annual Harvest Party
Sunday, October 11, 12:00 to 5:00 pm (Rain date: Monday, October 12)
$75 plus tax for adults, $35 plus tax for children 4 to 20, under 4 admitted free.
$65 plus tax for Wine Club Members - this year a special VIP area will be exclusive to wine club members and their guests.
Reservations required. Please call (631) 537-5106, ext. 11
New Wine Releases
Coinciding with the fall harvest, Wölffer Estate is also pleased to toast the release of the new "Christian's Cuvée" Merlot 2005, as well as several new vintages from the winery: Merlot 2007, Chardonnay 2007, and Cabernet Franc 2006. The wines are also available for purchase at the winery tasting room or online at www.wolffer.com.
About Wölffer Estate Vineyard
A leader in Long Island winemaking for over 20 years, Wölffer Estate Vineyard, a 55-acre winery located in Sagaponack, (The Hamptons), New York, is an American winery with a decidedly European character. Reflecting our terroir and the meticulous stewardship of winemaker Roman Roth, these former potato fields are the foundation for world-class wines. Similar in many respects to conditions in Bordeaux, the local Bridgehampton loam soil and favorable maritime influences provide a perfect host for grapevines. Wölffer Estate Vineyard proudly practices sustainable agriculture.
To learn more about Wölffer Winery and plan a visit there go to: Wolffer Winery
For more info on Long Island Wine Country go to: The Long Island Wine Council
To view a previous post on Wolffer's internationally acc;aimed Late Harvest Chardonnay go to:
Long Island Chardonnay Places 1st in International Wine Competition
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To follow American Feast's Founder on Twitter go to: Jeff Deasy on Twitter
Looking for a fun evening out in Minneapolis that will benefit a couple of terrific causes? If that sounds enticing the non-profit Partnership Resources is joining with the American Culinary Federation, Minneapolis Chefs chapter to present a fantastic new fundraising event: A Taste of Art. Just weeks away, the gourmet event will raise much-needed funds for services for adults with developmental disabilities and the Chef's Scholarship Fund.
A Taste of Art will Feature:
Tasting stations featuring food from the American Culinary Federation's world-class chefs
• Artwork from Partnership Resources' artist on display and available for purchase
• Exhibits highlighting the dynamic programs of Partnership Resources, Inc.
• Silent and Live auctions
• Live Music
• Much, much more for foodies and all community-minded people...
Event Details:
• When: Sunday, September 13th, 2009, 5:00 to 8:00 pm
• Where: The Doubletree Hotel Minneapolis-Park Place
• Tickets: $75*
• V.I.P. Tickets: $125* and include:
- Early reception with Chefs & Artists from 4:00 to 5:00 pm
- Complimentary Wine & Champagne
- Exclusive Appetizers
- Gift Bag
• Attire: Business Casual
• Tickets Available: Online or by calling Partnership Resources at 612-331-2075 (Monday - Friday 8:00 am – 3:00 pm)
*$50 of ticket price is tax deductible
For further info and to purchase tickets go to: A Taste of Art
About Partnership Resources
PRI works to provide appropriate opportunities for individuals with disabilities to play a respected and valued role in community life. Although most clients served by PRI are seeking employment, their community development efforts promote the use of community resources as the natural place for clients involved in recreation, volunteer, seniors, employment or any combination of these opportunities.
About the American Culinary Federation
The American Culinary Federation (ACF) is the largest professional chefs organization in North America and is dedicated to "promoting the professional image of American chefs worldwide through education of culinarians at all levels."
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Grape Vines in Sonoma (photo by David Ellis, courtesy of morguefile.com)
The 2nd Annual Sonoma Wine Country Weekend will feature tastings, tours, demonstrations and seminars showcasing over 200 artisan wineries, growers, chefs and food purveyors. It is the area’s largest wine and food fundraiser, having donated more than $8 million to local charities that support students, children, farm workers and people in need.
One of the country’s premier food and wine events, the three days of activity includes the 30th Annual Showcase: Taste of Sonoma, which will take place Saturday, September 5th from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm at Sonoma’s famed MacMurray Ranch vineyards in Healdsburg. Sonoma Wine Country Weekend will culminate on Sunday September 6th with the 17th Annual Sonoma Valley Harvest Wine Auction at Cline Cellars in Sonoma.
“Taste of Sonoma is an epicurean event unlike any other,” said Executive Producer Maureen Cottingham, “offering boundless opportunities for wine lovers and foodies alike to sip and savor the diversity of our rich farm-to-table heritage alongside the growers, winemakers and chefs who’ve made Sonoma one of the world’s great food and wine destinations.”
Some of the Highlights
• Sonoma County Appellation Grand Food and Wine Tasting: An immersion experience, with more than 150 wineries pouring thousands of wines, and over 60 local chefs whipping up divine pairings. This is a rare opportunity to go one on one with artisan producers representing the four distinct appellations of one of the most diverse and bountiful growing regions in the world.
• Sonoma's Sommelier Stars Wine and Food Tasting Tours: Sonoma's own celebrity sommelier, Christopher Sawyer, has assembled an all-star team of nationally acclaimed sommeliers who will be on-hand to provide 30 minute guided tours through the Grand Tasting Tents. With their knowledgeable guidance, guests will discover hidden gems, try new varieties, and enjoy expert insights on expanding their wine appreciation and knowledge. Registration is taken the day of the event.
• The Gloria Ferrer Bubble Lounge: Located at the entrance to Showcase: Taste of Sonoma, the Gloria Ferrer Bubble Lounge offers visitors a chance to toast the day with a bit of bubbly paired with small bites, presented by Cindy Friedman, Gloria Ferrer Caves and Vineyards Certified Wine Educator.
• The Crushpad: A unique “grape to glass” tasting and demonstration presented by local grape growers and winemakers. Guests will sample freshly picked grapes, juice from a basket press demonstrating and finally a taste of the finished bottled wine from the highlighted vineyard, presented by the Sonoma County Winegrape Commission.
• The Gourmet Kitchen: Steel Chef Competition and Cooking Demonstrations: Sonoma County's most celebrated chefs face off in a fast paced, fun and educational competition for the coveted title of Sonoma County's Chef of Steel. The audience will learn to flip, dip, chop and whip like the pros in the demonstration kitchen, where throughout the day Sonoma's top chefs will share the tricks of the trade, including new recipes, techniques and innovative ways to flavor food.
• Sonoma County Marketplace: Explore the bounty of one of the world’s most fertile food sheds brought to market by small, local family farms. Guests can browse, sample and purchase high-quality, artisanal ingredients used by local chefs and explore the new sustainable and organic area, to learn how to incorporate “green” foods and products into the home pantry.
• Silent Auction: Benefiting the Redwood Empire Food Bank: the Taste of Sonoma Silent Auction and Big Bottle Bid offers bidders a chance to take home prized bottlings from local winery cellars, one-of-a-kind etched bottles, and other terrific trips and packages.
• A Self-Guided Walk-Around Retrospective: “Legacy of the Land: 150 Years on a Russian River Valley Ranch”: Experience the living history of MacMurray Ranch through a never-before-seen exhibition detailing ranch life from the late 19th Century to today. The exhibit is displayed in the oldest structure on the ranch, called the Prune Shed in reference to the principal Russian River Valley cash crop of the early 1900s. From subsistence farming to elite Pinot Noir, the history of MacMurray Ranch tells a story of Sonoma County agriculture from the 1850s to the 21st Century. Experience this exhibition while enjoying MacMurray Ranch Wines!
Named one of the “Ten Best Wine and Food Events in the United States” by Celebrated Living magazine, Taste of Sonoma is a coveted ticket. General Admission is $150 per person. Visa Signature cardholders receive a special price of $95 per person, as well as other event perks when they use their card to purchase tickets. Grand Reserve tickets are $195 per person. Grand Reserve ticket holders receive additional privileges throughout the event and access to exclusive venues featuring rare wines, gracious hospitality and special behind-the-scenes benefits.
For more info and to purchase tickets go to: 2009 Sonoma Wine Country Weekend
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A Napa Oak Overlooks Vines (image courtesy of Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group)
There's an excellent chance that your favorite Napa Valley winegrower is a member of the Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group which 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
Grilled Oysters (Image courtesy of Bodega Seafood Art and Wine Festival)
Started over a decade ago, the Bodega Seafood Art and Wine Festival has become one of the Bay Area's most popular, attracting wine makers, foodies, art aficionados, and music lovers by the thousands. Home to Hitchcock's classic thriller, “The Birds,” Bodega proves the perfect locale for an unforgettable weekend with Sonoma County's top wineries, microbreweries, renowned seafood purveyors, talented artists, and world-class musicians.
The open-air event, which takes place on August 29th and 30th, 2009 at scenic Watts Ranch, invites wine lovers to participate in the wonderful festival tasting featuring approximately 30 locally produced wines and 24 micro brews. Celebrate summer's seafood bounty by enjoying festival favorites including barbecued oysters, crab cakes, and Key Lime calamari, as well as other delicacies, including vegetarian options.
The weekend Festival features dozens of events showcasing carefully selected original artwork, crowd-pleasing entertainers, a wild animal “safari,” and rubber duck races benefiting Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods.
Created by local artists Janet Ciel and Michael Ecton, the festival was born of their passion for the East Coast's plethora of traditional seafood festivals. While escaping the winter cold to exhibit in Florida during the mid-1990's, they discovered these celebrations-of-all-things-seafood. “We couldn't believe there weren't similar seafood festivals on the West Coast. So we decided to start our own to share with Northern Californians,” says Janet.
Not-to-be-missed Festival highlights include:
• The Bay Area's most popular band on the music scene, Pride & Joy, featuring their one-of-a-kind, electrifying, high-style shows of pop/soul music
• Live performance by the daughter of Blues legend John Lee Hooker and an exceptional Blues performer in her own right, Zakiya Hooker
• The rompin', stompin' leaders of cross-polinated Gypsy music,” Fishtank Ensemble featuring their mesmerizing blend of flamenco guitar, punk accordion, saw playing, and Japanese shamisen – “a young band that is one of the most thrilling live acts on the planet,” according to the LA Weekly
• San Francisco darling of the swing dancing set,Steve Lucky and the Rhumba Bums play jump blues, swing, jazz, and rare gems inspired by the '30s, '40s, and '50s.
• Tom Rigney and Flambeau, voted best cajun/zydeco band of 2004 and renowned as “a band that will tear the roof off of anyplace and raise the spirits of everyone around”
• George Cole and Vive Le Jazz's superbly crafted and sophisticated original music that evokes the best of George Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Django Reinhardt a band that will tear the roof off of anyplace that has one and raise the spirits of everyone around.
• Lively fun for kids and adults who are kids at heart – an interactive “wild safari” show featuring alligators, armadillos, and wallabies, oh my!
• The first annual Bodega Seafood Festival Rubber Duck Races!! A waterway built on the festival grounds will be home to thousands of sunglasses-clad rubber duckies, vying for a grand prize of a Soft Tu!
The public is invited to enjoy Northern California's culinary creations, sublime summer weather, and world-class entertainment on August 29th from 10AM – 6PM and on August 30th from 10AM – 5PM. Admission is $12 for adults, and kids under 12 years are admitted free of charge. Festivities take place in the village of Bodega at Watts Ranch, located at 16855 Bodega Highway. For more information, please visit: Bodega Seafood Art & Wine Festival
As a salute to Sonoma County's nearby redwoods, proceeds benefit the Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods, an organization that works in partnership with California State Parks to provide the public with opportunities for personal inspiration through environmental stewardship programs, and the Bodega Volunteer Fire Department.
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(photo courtesy of Windy City Wine Festival)
Epicurean Delights!
On Friday, September 11th and Saturday, September 12th, Chicago will become an epicurean’s delight when the Windy City Wine Festival brings in more than 250 fine wines from across the globe. Wine Seminars and cooking demonstrations will be conducted by Festival sponsors, exhibiting wineries, Chicago-area chefs and participating restaurants.
The Festival takes place at one of Chicago’s most lovely locales, Daley Bicentennial Plaza in Grant Park, located on Randolph Street, just over the Millennium Bridge. The Festival will run from 4:00 to 10:00 pm on Friday, and 3:00 to 10:00 pm on Saturday. A portion of the proceeds made at the Festival will be donated to the Grant Park Conservatory.
Entertainment
Wine Seminars and cooking demonstrations will be conducted by the Festival’s sponsors, exhibiting wineries, Chicago-area chefs and participating restaurants. As guests enjoy strolling through the park indulging their palates with outstanding wine varietals local musical talent will provide live Jazz, Blues and Lite Rock performances.
Fine Foods & a Global Selection of Wines
The Festival provides an opportunity to sample from more than 250 wines from around the world. Learn about new and exciting varieties from the experts in a relaxed festival setting. Participants can easily navigate their way throughout the park and make note of their favorite wines with the detailed map of the Festival vendors.
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.
Tickets
Tickets are $25 in advance (purchase by 9/10/09) or $30 at the door. This ticket includes a souvenir wine glass, ten tastings, Festival Program, Food & Wine seminars, cooking demonstrations, musical entertainment, and the opportunity to purchase wine at a discount.
A Designated Driver Ticket is $10 in advance or at the door. This ticket includes two non-alcoholic drinks, Festival Program, Food & Wine seminars, cooking demonstrations, musical entertainment, souvenir wine glass upon departure.
Tickets are $22.50 per person for groups of 15 or more if purchased in advance. The Group Ticket Package includes all of the same amenities of the Adult Ticket, yet saves your party $2.50 off the advance price and $7.50 off the door price.
A $3.00 order processing/handling fee will be charged to each phone and online order.
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.
To Volunteer at the event please call (847) 381-6774.
To follow American Feast on Facebook go to: American Feast on Facebook
(photo by Nesstor4u2, courtesy of morguefile.com)
A new wine company donates 20% of its net profits to organizations that help protect threatened animals around the world. Aptly named Endangered Wines, it has just launched four varietals of wines, a Merlot, a Chardonnay, a Cabernet Sauvignon, and a Sauvignon Blanc. The wines’ labels include stunning photographs of a Tiger, Elephant, Panda and Polar Bear.
The winemaker for Endangered Wines is a Frenchman named Phillipe Pla who is a well known for his skillful wine making throughout South America. The wines are produced and bottled in Chile and exported to the United States for sale to retailers and customers. The wines are reasonably priced at around $9.00 a bottle.
Endangered Wines has partnered with reputable nonprofit organizations including Save China’s Tigers, The International Elephant Foundation, Pandas International, and Polar Bears International. The work being done to protect threatened animals around the world will directly benefit from donations by the wine company.
Endangered Wines was founded by Scott Day who is the owner of the Caribbean Vineyards wine brands based in St Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Scott is an avid animal lover and naturally blended his two passions to create a wine company with a good cause. The wine company is based in Wilmington, Delaware and currently negotiating with distributors across the United States to sell the wines.
Endangered Wines’ labels says it all with “Great Wines Working For a Greater Cause.”
You can find out more about the new wine company at their website: Endangered Wines
Chopin Vodka Punch (Image courtesy of Chopin Vodka)
Whether they are regularly finding reasons to celebrate or seeking a little lift in tough times, about 30% of Americans are having an alcoholic drink “at least once a week.” That’s according to a Harris Poll® of 2,401 U.S. adults surveyed online between April 13 and 21, 2009.
One-quarter of U.S. adults say they never drink alcohol, but of those who imbibe at least several times a year, roughly two-thirds drink beer, while half say they drink domestic wine. Two in five drink vodka, one-third drink rum and 29% drink imported wine.
Drinking habits differ by gender, as men are more likely to drink alcohol at least once a week (40% versus 19%) and women are more likely to say they never partake (29% vs. 22%). Four in five men drink beer compared to just half of women. Over half of women drink domestic wine compared to 43% of men. Women are also more likely to drink vodka, tequila and champagne, while men are more likely to drink imported wine, bourbon and scotch.
Cheers!
If you’d like to read the press release on which this item was based go to: Three in Ten Americans Drink Alcohol Weekly
Wolffer Winery & Vineyards (Images courtesy of Wolffer Winery)
American Feast was founded by folks hailing from Long Island, so it's a particular pleasure to report that the 2007 Wölffer Estate Vineyard Late Harvest Chardonnay, an ice wine, was named Best Dessert Wine at the 26th Annual San Diego International Wine Competition.
The award ranks as one of the most prestigious garnered by a wine from New York State. The accolade has us a little prideful of having noted in November of 2007 that Long Island had just experienced near perfect weather conditions for its winegrowing season, producing the best crop seen in years.
Like many of Long Island's vineyards, Wolfford's vineyards in Sagaponack are former potato fields. The unique terroir of Eastern Long Island's South Fork is similar in some respects to conditions in Bordeaux. The local soil, called Bridgehampton loam, is a by-product of the glacial moraine that formed Long Island, and provides a wonderful home for grapevines.
Sustainable Winegrowing at Wolffer Winery
According to Wolffer Winery's Founder and Owner, Hamburg-born Christian Wölffer:
This land is important to us and we do everything we can to protect it. We actively participate in the Long Island Sustainable Viticulture Program. It is designed to encourage practices with low environmental impact that maintain or improve soil, and help us become better stewards of land.
To learn more about Wolfferd Winery and plan a visit there go to: Wolfferd Winery
For more info on Long Island Wine Country go to: The Long Island Wine Council
California Vineyard (© Rboncato | Dreamstime.com)
Last week we noted that European imports of America’s artisanal cheeses were on the rise. Soon afterwards we learned that the world is importing more American wines than ever before. Those two developments were practically unthinkable just a couple of decades ago.
Ninety percent of the wines exported from the U.S. are made in California, according to the Wine Institute, a large advocacy and public policy association for California wine. A press release from the Institute says, “Nearly half of U.S. wine exports are shipped to the European Union, accounting for $486 million. Volume shipments to the European Union increased 9% in 2008 compared to 2007.”
“Wine is California’s second leading export product by value, and there is great opportunity to build upon this progress as the U.S. is the world’s fourth leading wine producer, yet holds a 6% share of the world export market,” said Linsey Gallagher, Wine Institute International Marketing Director.
The country’s vintners and crafters of fine cheeses may not have the ancient legacies of their European counterparts, but they've come a long way in their relatively short history. With their commitment to excellence gaining increasing recognition overseas they are helping preserve American livelihoods and bringing home revenue from abroad. And that is very good news in these worrisome times.
If you’d like to read the press release on which this item was based go to: Wine Institute
French Winery in Aquitaine (© Photowitch | Dreamstime.com)
Even the rarified world of collectors who obtain rare vintages and investment-grade wines is feeling the pinch of a difficult international economy. Aabalat Fine & Rare Wines, a seller of investment-grade wines in Petaluma, California, has seen prices drop approximately 25%. Despite the sharp decline in prices, the volume of sales has not increased.
The slumping luxury wine market is in stark comparison to recent boom times. Says Bob Orlandi, owner of Aabalat Fine & Rare Wines:
Back in 1998, wine was just beginning to gain mass appeal and more and more people began collecting wine for either personal enjoyment or investment. By the beginning of 2008, we could barely keep up with demand for the 2005 vintage Bordeaux, large formats, and other ultra fine wine. As a result, prices dramatically increased over that 10-year period.
There may be a silver lining to the weakened market. The folks at Aabalat believe “…a sharp rise in sales when the economy begins to rebound is inevitable…because wine is finite. Once a vintage is produced, you can’t make anymore. Therefore the laws of supply and demand apply more rigorously.”
For additional information on Aabalat go to: Aabalat Fine & Rare Wines
Caliza 2006 Syrah (Photo courtesy of Caliza Winery)
Caliza Winery’s 2006 Syrah won Best of Class in the Syrah category and won the Sweepstakes Award for Best Red Wine overall in The San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. What makes this accolade even more extraordinary is that this is winemaker and winery owner Carl Bowker’s first release.
The SF Chronicle Wine Competition is a major American wine competition with over 4,000 entries from around the world. Bowker entered the Caliza Syrah in the competition last December and had essentially forgotten about it until receiving phone calls telling him he had won.
“I got a few congratulatory calls from friends but I really couldn’t comprehend what they were talking about” said Bowker. “I knew we had entered the competition, but at best we were hoping for a little recognition. Nothing of this magnitude even entered my mind – I was literally blown away!”
The winning wine was sourced mainly from the Russell Family vineyard. The grapes were hand-harvested in September of 2006, and gently de-stemmed. After fermentation the wine spent 18 months in 50% new French Oak barrels from five different artisan coopers before bottling. Two hundred cases were produced, and the wine is available direct from the winery at a suggested retail price of $45 per bottle.
Carl Bowiker, a successful convention show contractor, and his wife Pam considered growing grapes and opening a winery after a trip to the Italian and French wine country several years back. It was then that they fell in love with the lifestyle and scenery. A few years later they decided to make the dream a reality. They traveled extensively from their home base in San Mateo looking for a California vineyard and winery location that would enable them to bring their fantasy to life.
They found their dream property in the Templeton Gap in Paso Robles, about a three hour drive from San Francisco. With the help of local winemakers, Scott Hawley, Eric Jensen and Erich Russell, Carl set out to craft his wines. A six year project in the making, Caliza Winery consists of two separate vineyards totaling 20 acres and an intimate tasting room that opened on Thanksgiving of 2008.
If you’d like to read the press release on which this item was based go to: Best Red Wine At SF Chronicle Wine Competition Comes From First Time Winemaker
Dallas at Sunset (Stephen Finn | Dreamstime.com)
Wine professionals will want to mark their calendars for February 16th and 17th, when the 25th Annual Dallas Morning News Wine Competition will be held at the Dallas Convention Center.
The Competition is the largest U.S. commercial wine competition outside California, and the fourth largest in the United States. It includes a renowned panel of national and international judges who will award gold, silver, and bronze medals to winning wines in over 250 categories.
The award-winning wines of the Competition will be showcased in SALUT!, a special publication of the Dallas Morning News this April. Winelovers will be able to sample the winning wines during the Dallas Wine and Food Festival running from April 22nd to the 26th in 2009.
The Wine Competition was founded in 1985 by Rebecca Murphy, the first female wine steward in Texas and now a wine consultant, educator and freelance wine journalist with a weekly column in the Dallas Morning News.
“The Dallas competition is bigger and more impactful than ever,” says Murphy who credits the caliber of the judges and the direct impact a medal has on sales in the important Texas market as the prime reasons for winery participation. “A wine with a Dallas Morning News Wine Competition medal carries national credibility and inspires confidence in retailers and consumers.”
To register for the event go to: 25th Annual Dallas Morning News Wine Competition
(photo courtesy of South Beach Wine & Food Festival)
“We couldn’t be more excited about the 2009 program of events in South Beach,” said Lee Brian Schrager, Founder and Director of the Food Network’s South Beach Wine & Food Festival. “…we’ll honor Emeril Lagasse, as well as pay special tribute to the culinary prowess of Spain. We’ll also be offering a brand new series of exclusive dinner experiences in addition to the return of our signature events.”
New Events
Celebrating its eighth year, the South Beach Wine & Food Festival will run from February 19th to the 22nd. The 2009 Festival kicks-off on Thursday, February 19th with an exclusive Salute to Spain Dinner at the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, featuring a distinguished guest to be announced at a later date. From there, other new events include:
• Brunch at Miami Beach’s iconic Joe’s Stone Crab featuring magnums of champagne from Veuve Clicquot and La Grande Dame.
• A succulent seafood celebration at the Mandarin Oriental hotel brought to you by the islands of Turks and Caicos, accented by Kim Crawford wines.
• Luxurious brunch set to sizzle at the Delano Hotel; featuring Dolce wines and hosted by Katie Lee Joel and Chef Anne Burrell, the affair will be an elite opportunity to experience Dolce’s “liquid gold” in one of Miami Beach’s defining boutique hotels.
• The 2009 dinner series also includes an Indian dinner hosted by Madhur Jaffrey, an all-organic dinner at Paradise Farms hosted by Michael Schwartz, and the Wolfsonian Mouton-Rothschild Dinner held in the presence of Baroness Philippine de Rothschild of Chateau Mouton-Rothschild.
Tribute Dinner
Continuing the Festival tradition of recognizing extraordinary leaders in the culinary industry, the 2009 Tribute Dinner will honor Mr. BAM himself, Emeril Lagasse. In a prestigious parade of talent at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel, a night emceed by none-other than Martha Stewart will feature dishes by Bobby Flay, Mario Batali, Charlie Trotter, Eric Ripert, Nobu Matsuhisa, and more as part of this very special night honoring Chef Lagasse’s energy and pioneering-style.
Late Night Parties
In true South Beach fashion, the 2009 Festival will also feature a selection of elite late-night soirees.
• The fun begins with a party produced by MIAMI magazine and hosted by Tyler Florence, host of Food Network’s Tyler’s Ultimate and Food 911.
• The return of Harrah’s Poker Party and Casino Night hosted by Paula Deen.
• A not-to-be missed late-night party sponsored by the spirits of Patrón.
• Stylish and creative, Sandra Lee – star of Food Network’s Semi-Homemade with Sandra Lee – offers her own spin on the festivities by inviting everyone over for a good old-fashioned sunset pool party.
• A perfect ending to the 2009 South Beach Wine & Food Festival will be the ultimate closing party hosted by Bobby Flay and actress Stephanie March, complete with fabulous drinks and all manner of gourmet hors d'oeuvres and desserts.
Festival Classics
Festival classics will return with wine and culinary celebrities hosting dinners, tastings, wine seminars, interactive cooking lunches, and much more. The 2009 Wine Spectator Wine Seminar Series and the Bank of America Lifestyle Wine and Spirits Seminars will offer educational and entertaining tastings to satisfy the palettes of both novices and aficionados alike, expanding to take place at both the Miami Beach Convention Center and the Loews Miami Beach Hotel.
• The Whole Foods Market Grand Tasting Village featuring the American Express Grand Tasting tents returns with a wonderful blend of tasting, superstar chefs and fun.
• Celebrating its third year as part of the Festival, Amstel Light’s Burger Bash hosted by Rachael Ray serves as the perfect start to the entire line-up of the star-studded wine and culinary extravaganza.
• Wine Spectator’s Best of the Best sponsored by Bank of America will move into the illustrious new space of the Fontainebleau Miami Beach; utilizing over 25,000 square feet of newly renovated ballrooms and the outdoor terrace, highlighting a luxurious lounge presented by Cigar Aficionado. The event will continue to showcase the talents of the world’s greatest chefs; including John Besh, John Fraser and Patrick O’Connell, and winemakers from Jordan Vineyard & Winery, Joseph Phelps Vineyards and Schrader Cellars, among others.
• The Festival’s pairing of barbeque and champagne will be back as the Perrier-Jouët BubbleQ hosted by Tom Colicchio, featuring the talent of Adam Perry Lang, Clay Conley, Jonathan Eismann, Rick Bayless, Chris Lilly, Marcus Samuelsson, and many more.
Fun and Fit as a Family
The Festival’s childhood obesity prevention initiative, Fun and Fit as a Family, is returning for its second year at Jungle Island, one of Miami’s premiere theme parks. Fun and Fit as a Family brings together the best culinary, fitness, and health personalities and professionals straight into the backyard of the community. Kidz Kitchen will feature star–studded culinary demonstrations with a healthy focus that are created exclusively for children and their parents. Obstacle courses, relay races, garden exploration, discovery centers, and featured culinary demonstrations make this interactive learning experience a must for the whole family.
For more info on family activities go to: Fun and Fit as a Family
For more general information, visit: South Beach Wine & Food Festival
Rich, spicy and full of dark fruit flavors, American Zinfandel is a red varietal that produces robust wines that go beautifully with the flavorful fare that comes from the American tradition of grilling steaks, lamb chops, fresh-caught seafood, and seasonal vegetables brushed with olive oil.
Mysterious Origins
In the 1880’s Zinfandel grapes were the most popular variety being planted in California, but their exact origin remains a mystery. The varietal was once believed to be America’s only indigenous grape capable of producing good wine, but its DNA indicates it may have roots in southern Italy. The mystery remains and there is no European equivalent.
Whatever its origins, Zinfandel is an American success story. It may not have a lineage traceable to noble roots, but neither do most Americans and quite a few have overcome humble beginnings to achieve greatness. Zinfandel has attracted a large and devoted following with some enthusiasts bordering on the fanatic, true Zinheads we like to call them.
Two Affordable Finds
A short time ago we attended a wine tasting at Manhattan’s Chelsea Market in its marvelously cave-like atmosphere. The Market is a big place and the number of wines on hand for tasting was impressive, but a little overwhelming. We decided to focus on the Zinfandels and let the gaggle of wine writers in attendance handle the heavy lifting.
We were delighted to come across two Zins that were both a pleasure to drink and remarkably affordable, Kunde Estate’s 2005 Zinfandel and the 2006 XYZin 10, products of California's Sonoma wine country. Both are priced under $20.00 a bottle, making them a fine choice for a gathering of friends and family ready to feast on platters of grilled or oven-roasted food.
The Kunde Zinfandel delivers the bold flavor Zinheads crave, with a boysenberry aroma and peppery quality after aging for 14 months in oak barrels. Kunde Estates Winemaker, Tim Bell, suggests pairing his Zin with baby back ribs glazed with barbecue sauce. Sounds good to us, we love drinking a robust red wine and eating with our hands in the manner of Henry VIII. Tim advises, “Don’t forget the napkins—this is good messy eatin!” And hearty drinking, his Zin has an alcohol content of 14.6%.
The 2006 XYZin 10 is a youthful, medium-bodied wine made from fruit sourced from top appellations in Sonoma, all hand-harvested. Winemaker Ondine, a Zinfandel specialist, says it is “best enjoyed in its first five years after release, while it best exhibits the vivid quality of our young vines.” It delivers the dark fruit flavor expected by Zin enthusiasts and pairs nicely with food fresh off the grill. This one is only slightly less intoxicating than Kunde’s Zin, with an alcohol content of 14.3%.
Nice to find two American originals to go with some of our favorite American foods!
Wine Tasting Cellar (photo by Álvaro Daniel González Lamarque, courtesy of morguefile.com)
Good news has been in short supply in these recessionary times, but BBC News has reported that at least “prices of some of the world's most revered wines are falling sharply.”
The drop in price for a case of twelve bottles of the 2005 vintage of Bordeaux's famous Chateau Lafite Rothschild from $15,720 to $11,790 (that’s $982.50 per standard-sized bottle), doesn’t exactly have us describing it as an “affordable” wine, but vintages bought by ordinary wine lovers have also been declining.
It seems wine lovers everywhere are benefiting from the trend toward lower prices. According to BBC News, “…the fall back in prices - and therefore demand - appears to be worldwide.”
If you’d like to read the BBC News article cited above go to: Wine prices go into the red
Grapes on the Vine (photo by Emily Roesly, courtesy of morguefile.com)
Last week wine tasters from the Wall Street Journal reported being “fascinated with the growth, not just in size but in quality” of Oregon’s Pinot Noirs over a decade of sampling.
This week an article by Dana Tims of The Oregonian reports that “Early indications, say winemakers around the state, are that 2008 could go down as one of the best vintages of the past decade.”
“First, meager autumn rains” and then, “cool daytime temperatures” made for conditions that were “virtually perfect” for growing the state’s celebrated Pinot Noir grapes. A great vintage will do more than just please wine lovers, as Oregon’s commercial wine ndustry "now generates $1 billion annually.”
If you’d like to read The Oregonian article cited above go to: Oregon winemakers expect 2008 to be a vintage year
Autumn Vineyard (© Rachell Coe | Dreamstime.com)
Oregonians are known to be wine lovers and the state’s wineries are giving them and wine drinkers everywhere plenty of fine wine to love. Those wineries are highly regarded for their Pinot Noirs, a grape variety that is difficult to cultivate, but when in the right hands it produces some of the finest wines in the world.
Winetasters John Brecher and Dottie Gaiter of the Wall Street Journal have just taken a taste of the state of Oregon’s Pinot Noirs and they were not disappointed. The article recalls that just three years ago they “cautioned that many good Oregon Pinots were very hard to find and that most were pricey.” Thankfully, that is no longer the case. There are now about 400 wineries and 17,000 acres of vineyards in Oregon.
It’s not just the amount of wine the state is producing that impresses. The tasters for the Journal have “been fascinated with the growth, not just in size but in quality.” The writers offer that high praise after a decade of sampling and their recent research was impressively thorough. The two tasters note that there are now good Oregon Pinots for $20 or less and for this article they bought 50 bottles after setting a price limit of $60.
The article is accompanied by a listing of eight favorites, “The Dow Jones Oregon Pinot Noir Index.” Most are from wineries in the Willamette Valley, but there’s one from the Rogue Valley as well. They write, “These are great with all kinds of food, from roast chicken to lamb, and would be a lovely accompaniment to your Thanksgiving dinner.”
How much will a good bottle of Oregon Pinot set you back? Good news, two of the picks were priced at less than $20 a bottle and there was one at $29.99.
If you’d like to read the Wall Street Journal article cited above go to: The State of Oregon Pinot
To learn more about Oregon's fine wines & exploring the state's beautiful wine country go to: Oregon Wine Center
Grape Vines in Sonoma, CA (photo by David Ellis, courtesy of morguefile.com)
Vintners in America’s number one wine producing state want to open more wine tasting rooms, but local residents are concerned that throngs of intoxicated tourists will crowd their communities.
Some of California’s small wine makers envision selling individual bottles for as much as $20 in cozy tasting rooms, moving up to 5,000 cases of wine a year without special permits. The Associated Press reports that officials in San Diego County have already passed legislation that would allow them to do just that, but opponents have threatened to sue. The opposition is “arguing the county had not adequately studied the affects on traffic and the environment.”
According to the AP report published by Yahoo!, “The number of visitors to California wineries has nearly doubled from about 11 million in 1998 to almost 20 million in 2006, the latest year for which statistics are available from the Wine Institute, a trade group.”
Small vintners see the tasting rooms as an opportunity to bring in much needed revenue and more broadly market their wines inexpensively. Residents fear “tipsy tourists weaving through their quiet communities, possibly putting locals at risk while increasing traffic congestion and noise.”
If you’d like to read the Associated Press article cited above go to: Calif. vintners push to open wine tasting rooms
Napa Valley Winery (© Don Mace | Dreamstime.com)
The fine wines of California are a delight for wine lovers and an important part of the state’s economy. It’s been a tough economic year, so this year’s disappointing growing season has caused understandable concern about the size and quality of this month's harvest.
Just a few weeks ago we reported that the growing season first suffered from frosts, then hot weather followed by a lack of rain. “Growers and vintners estimate this year's crop in the state could be 20% smaller than in 2007,” according to an article in the Los Angeles Times. The disappointing growing season “comes as demand for domestic wine is growing by 3% to 5% a year and the market for $12-to-$20 wines is increasing by 18%.”
“So far, it looks like the crop will be smaller than usual but the fruit that is coming in is good,” according to an article from the Associated Press, published by Google. Karen Ross, president of the California Association of Winegrape Growers is quoted by AP, "People are very happy to date with the quality and flavor development."
Don’t expect any diminishment of the taste of California’s fine wines. The AP article refers to Paul Dolan of the Mendocino Wine Company, who expects wineries to rise above this year's tough conditions. “Winemakers by nature are really very optimistic people and they're very creative," he said, "so there always is a way."
If you’d like to read the Associated Press article cited above go to: Harvest caps challenging year for Calif. vintners
If you’d like to read the L.A. Times article cited above go to: California winemakers brace for smaller supply of grapes
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)
Wine Grapes (photo by missyredboots, courtesy of morguefile.com)
Do you want to know your wine collection contains vintages that are exclusive rather than available to the masses? There’s a new winery in New York City ready to offer you such an opportunity, but of course, it will come with a price.
The New York Post reports that City Winery, a facility in the heart of New York’s trendy SoHo neighborhood, starts with the delivery of 10 tons of wine grapes from California wine country. The new winery “has lined up grapes from some of the country's most prestigious vineyards.”
And the price you ask? According to the article in the Post, "For around $7,000 and up, depending on the price of grapes and membership level chosen, 200 New Yorkers will have the opportunity to create a personal barrel of wine, equal to 250 bottles, under the direction of French-born winemaker David Lecomte."
If you’d like to read the New York Post article cited above go to: To Wine Own Self Be True
French Winery in Aquitaine (© Photowitch | Dreamstime.com)
It was just last week ago that the Los Angeles Times reported that Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes were in short supply in California due to poor weather conditions. California winemakers “…believe that the state's wine grape crop could be 15% smaller than last year.”
This week the paper reports that French winemakers may be facing a grape shortage of their own. Wine production in France is expected to fall by about 5%. Only some of France’s wine region’s will face the anticipated shortage, according to the L.A. Times:
Vineyards in Bordeaux, Provence and other southern regions were particularly affected after buds that had developed early thanks to mild winter temperatures froze at the outset of spring. Bourgogne, Alsace, Champagne and other northern areas were spared since vines mature later there because of a colder climate.
Poor weather has played a role in the shortage of wine grapes in France, but the L.A. Times article explains that the shortage is also partly due to the fact that, “…some growers uprooted vines to combat overproduction.”
If you’d like to read the Los Angeles Times article cited above go to: French harvest of wine grapes expected to fall
Napa Vinyard at Sunrise (© Can Balcioglu | Dreamstime.com)
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are in short supply in California due to poor weather conditions.
The growing season first suffered from frosts, then hot weather followed by a lack of rain. “Growers and vintners estimate this year's crop in the state could be 20% smaller than in 2007,” according to an article in the Los Angeles Times. The disappointing growing season “comes as demand for domestic wine is growing by 3% to 5% a year and the market for $12-to-$20 wines is increasing by 18%.”
On the bright side, the L.A. Times article says the weak U.S. dollar is helping the industry by bolstering exports and making it harder for foreign winemakers to sell their wine profitably in the United States. Wine constitutes a $19 billion industry for California.
If you’d like to read the L.A. Times article cited above go to: California winemakers brace for smaller supply of grapes
(photo courtesy of Windy City Wine Festival)
Epicurean Delights!
On Friday, September 5th and Saturday, September 6th, Chicago will become an epicurean’s delight when the Windy City Wine Festival brings in more than 250 fine wines from across the globe. Wine Seminars and cooking demonstrations will be conducted by Festival sponsors, exhibiting wineries, Chicago-area chefs and participating restaurants.
The Festival takes place at one of Chicago’s most lovely locales, Daley Bicentennial Plaza in Grant Park, located on Randolph Street, just over the Millennium Nridge. The Festival will run from 4:00 to 10:00 pm on Friday, and 3:00 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, blues and lite rock played by top local talent, including The Hearty Boys, Kim Massie, Dayna Malow and The Michael Heaton Band.
Fine Foods & a Global Selection of Wines
The Festival provides an opportunity to sample from more than 250 wines from around the world. Learn about new and exciting varieties from the experts in a relaxed festival setting. Participants can easily navigate their way throughout the park and make note of their favorite wines with the detailed map of the Festival vendors.
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.
Tickets
Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door. 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.
Tickets are $22.50 per person for groups of 15 or more if purchased in advance.
A $3.00 order processing/handling fee will be charged to each phone and online order.
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.
Red Wine Pour (photo by Abdalla Gamal, courtesy of morguefile.com)
Wealthy wine buyers from China have sent prices for some of the world’s most sought after wines soaring in recent years. As they’ve grown richer, Chinese shoppers have developed more worldly tastes, including a taste for the finest of Champagnes from France.
BBC News has reported that China will not be just a significant importer of wine for much longer, “…in terms of number of vineyards, it is already the world's fourth-largest player.”
The BBC article also says, “China is set to become the world's largest producer of bulk wine in 50 years time as well as a major force in fine wine, experts are forecasting.”
If you’d like to read the BBC News article cited above go to: Vintage future seen for Chinese wine
It's Summertime and the Living is Easy!
……And it’s time for Great Grapes Festival to come back to Oregon Ridge Park in Cockeysville, Maryland. It’s the Festival’s 6th year and it is sure to be the most fun to date. Reserve your tickets right away and save money by purchasing them in advance. Tickets can be used for either of two great days, Saturday, June 21st and Sunday, June 22nd.
Bring your friends and family and picnic blankets and chairs to enjoy the weekend on the lawn and listen to some of your favorite tunes while you enjoy tasting an abundance of your favorite wines from Maryland. Or maybe you enjoy great food and the gourmet lifestyle...then you'll really enjoy strolling the exhibits or taking in one of the seminars.
Come celebrate the taste of over 150 unique, diverse and flavorful wines from 13 wineries and uncork the flavors that make up all of the fantastic vintages of The Old Line State.
Gourmet Live Cooking & Wine Demos
Be sure to check out the Gourmet Live! Sessions while sipping away on your new found Maryland wine favorites. Meet Food Network Chef Juan Carlos Cruz as he helps you prepare great foods that are not too rich in calories. (Save that for the wine.)
The Gourmet Live! Sessions include “Black Forest Ham and White Bean Panini and Cranberry Walnut Quinoa Salad”, "Everything Cheese", “Learn Your Personal Wine Palate”, “What's New in the Maryland Wine Industry", “Savory Cheese Gets Trendy with the Season’s Local Sweet & Zesty Preserves”, “Ginger Packet Salmon, Toaster Style”, and “Wine and Food 101.”
Live Music
The Main Stage will offer some great entertainment with the modern-rock sound of Judo Chop Rock and recreations of the sounds of the 1980s by The Reagan Years. The intersection of swing, rockabilly, and jump blues is where you'll find King Teddy. Their influences may be varied, including everyone from Louis Prima to Sam Cooke to Gene Vincent to the Beatles, but they are single-minded in their musical mission -- to swing, baby! If you're a fan of Jimmy Buffett music, island music, or just good music, Captain Quint is the band for you.
The Grape Stomp
Come have a rompin', stompin' good time and help celebrate the grape harvest with the 1st Annual Stomp Off. Watch as media personalities, local celebrities and festival attendees face off against each other as they dip their toes into barrels full of juicy grapes. The winner will be determined by the amount of juice created from each contestant's barrel after five minutes of stomping.
Great Kids Area
Bring the kids to enjoy the playground and kids area while you relax with your new found favorite Maryland wines. Kids 12 and under are admitted for FREE.
Win a Free Trip to Sonoma Wine Country!
One lucky winner will win a trip to Sonoma Wine Country in 2008. Make sure you join the mailing list at the entrance of the show to be entered to win. The lucky winners will be contacted in the fall. Keep your fingers crossed.
Admission
A General Tasting Glass: $18 in advance or $22 On-site and includes unlimited wine sampling, all performances, cooking demonstrations and a souvenir wine glass.
A $10 Designated Driver Ticket includes admission into the event only.
Group Tickets $16 (per ticket) for groups of 15 or more (must order by phone 800-830-3976)
Kids & Parking are Free!
For more info, schedules and tickets visit the official web site: Maryland Great Grapes Wine, Art & Food Festival
On the evening of June 26th, Park Slope locavores will be mingling with Wall Street bankers, while learning about local wines, tasting organic food fresh from the farmer’s market, and interacting with local food expert Joan Gussow and Slow Food’s executive director Erika Lesser.
The benefit event will take place at the CUE Art Foundation at 511 West 25th Street in Manhattan. Proceeds will benefit Play 4 Life, Inc., a nonprofit organization providing cooking, gardening, nutrition and yoga programs for underserved youth.
During the event, renowned chefs such as Top Chef's Andrea Beaman, will be presenting local food entrees to donors and attendees and local wine vineyards will be providing the wine. Remarks will be given by Joan Gussow on the nutritional, environmental and societal benefits of supporting local farms. Ms. Gussow is a professor emeritus for nutrition at Columbia University Teachers College, a director of the Jessie Smith Noyes Foundation and a member of the National Organic Standards Board.
Play 4 Life seeks to transform underprivileged communities’ ideas about nutrition and lifestyle by teaching both kids and parents about affordable healthy food. Through its nutrition, cooking, gardening and yoga programs, Play 4 Life teaches kids how to live a healthy life in a fun, playful way.
Carrot Break (photo courtesy of Play 4 Life)
“We’re very excited to have some incredible partnerships with local food experts for this event. Our intention is to introduce people to ways to get food that is good for the body and the planet. Of course, we want people to have fun while learning and experiencing healthy food that is mouth-watering-delicious. They will want to come back for more,” executive director Tanya Paluso said.
The festivities will run from 7:00 to 10:00 PM on Thursday, June 26th. Please contact Capera Clement at (619) 981-5111 or capera@play4lifeonline.org for more information.
To learn more about the terrific work of the nonprofit organization go to: Play4 Life, Inc.
Red Wine (photo by Odapi, courtesy of morguefile.com)
In the past we’ve offered some health advice that’s pretty easy to take: drink a glass of red wine every day for a longer, healthy life. If you haven’t been following that advice there’s some new evidence indicating that it may be time to start.
The New York Times has published a report citing separate studies conducted by Dr. Leonard Guarente of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dr. David Sinclair of the Harvard Medical School, Dr. John Auwerx of the Institute of Genetics and Molecular and Cellular Biology in Illkirch, France, and a research team led by Tomas A. Prolla and Richard Weindruch, of the University of Wisconsin. In each case scientists concluded that resveratrol, an ingredient of certain red wines can significantly slow down physical aging.
According to the article in the Times, some scientists are already taking supplements of reservatrol, but others remain skeptical that doing so will lead to a longer life. We’ll be keeping an eye out for future developments on the issue, but for now we’re not taking any chances. We’re going to continue enjoying a good glass of red wine with dinner every evening.
If you’d like to read the New York Times article cited above go to: New Hints Seen That Red Wine May Slow Aging
Wine Pour (photo by Dani Simmonds, courtesy of morguefile.com)
Could England be the world’s next great wine region? Will we see the day that a trip to Scandinavia, China or Russia includes a visit to celebrated wineries? We just might.
According to a report from the Associated Press, published by the Cincinnati Enquirer, “by 2050, the world’s premier wine-friendly zones could shift as much as 180 miles toward the poles.” says climate geographer Gregory Jones of Southern Oregon University.
The report goes on to say, “In theory, that will make northern Europe or New Zealand more grape-friendly than Bordeaux or Australian valleys.”
Recently, the French government relaxed irrigation in the Languedoc region, “where winemaking dates to the 5th century B.C.” There’s also concern about conditions becoming too dry in southern Spain, but in Tuscany the worry is too much rain.
Meanwhile, “The biggest problem with English wineries is keeping up in demand,” says Christopher White, general manager of Denbies Winery in Surrey.
If you’d like to read the article from AP as posted by the Cincinnati Enquirer cited above go to: Wine in a warming world
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.
Tastings
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
Autumn Vineyard (© Rachell Coe | Dreamstime.com)
Oregonians are known to be big wine drinkers and over the last 10 years the number of wineries in the state has tripled. Some of the state’s smallest wineries have bootstrapped their way to profitability by carefully controlling quality and building close relationships with their wine-loving customers.
The Portland Business Journal reports that Prive Vineyard & Winery “produces about 500 cases a year on 2.5 acres, and produced just two high-end pinot noirs, which sell for $49 and $57.” The article in the Journal goes on to say, “The business was financed by a $125,000 investment by the owners, and today enjoys a profit margin of 40 percent.”
To keep in touch with customers, Prive Vineyard & Winery mails notices to a list of 1,000 contacts. Co-owner and winemaker Tina Hammond also hosts an annual party for the winery’s customers. All the wine produced sells out. She says folks have grown weary of visiting wineries that have gotten so large there’s never an owner in sight.
If you’d like to read the Portland Business Journal article cited above go to: Small wineries soar
To learn more about Oregon's fine wines & exploring the state's beautiful wine country go to: Oregon Wine Center
To view a previous post on the topic go to: Oregon's Wineries & Vineyards Are Growing Strong
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
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
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
(photo courtesy of Washington Wine Center)
Did you know that the State of Washington was the 2nd largest premium wine producer in the U.S. after California? The state's rich volcanic soils, extensive sunlight and warm days with cool nights produce some of the best wines in the world. Those same conditions make for gorgeous landscapes to enjoy when touring Washington's wine country.
The state is home to 500 wineries producing 20+ varietals, with 57% of those being red wines. The leading red varietals are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, & Sangiovese. The leading white varietals are
Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, & Viognier. Washington's premium wines hail from 9 major American Viticultural Areas as recognized and defined by the U.S. government.
According to the Washington Wine Center the state has 30,000 acres devoted to growing grapes. The Commission also reports that the wine industry contributes $3 billion annually to the state's economy and provides 14,000 full-time jobs.
Tours of Washington wine country can begin from almost anywhere. Most visits start in Seattle but Washington wine country is a brief drive from Boise, Portland and even Vancouver, British Columbia. With more than 80 wineries in and around the Puget Sound area it is possible to tour and taste for many days in the Seattle and Woodinville regions. Within a 45 minute drive of downtown Seattle one can visit winery tasting rooms, enjoy summer concerts and other wine related activities.
To learn more about the state's fine wines & exploring its beautiful wine regions go to: Washington Wine Center
(photo courtesy of Oregon Wine Center)
The folks tending the vineyards of Oregon have good reason to raise a glass in celebration. Besides being utterly beautiful places to visit, Oregon's wine regions are expanding.
According to a new report from Oregon State University, the planting of 1,378 new acres of grapes set a new record in in 2006, a year that saw 49 new wineries open. Over the last 10 years the number of wineries in Oregon has tripled.
Oregonian wines continue to gain respect for their premium qualities. To cite one example, the sometimes difficult Pinot Noir grape does well in the cool climate of Oregon wine country, much as it thrives in the cool weather of the Burgundy region of France.
Last year, an economic impact study by the Oregon Wine Center indicated that the wine industry provides $1.4 billion in economic activity for the state. Wine grape sales grew to $46.7 million in 2006, a record 27.6% increase over the previous year.
To learn more about Oregon's fine wines & exploring the state's beautiful wine country go to: Oregon Wine Center
Vineyard (photo by Anita Patterson Peppers courtesy of morguefile.com)
Buffalo and Western New York have long been identified as Rust Belt territory, but the future may see that part of the country emerge as both an important source of clean energy and one of America’s great winegrowing regions.
About a week ago we posted an item indicating that wind power plants could be a useful antidote to the economic malaise of post-industrial Western New York. Now, a Cornell University agriculture scientist thinks it's probable that excellent conditions for growing grapes could put Niagara County on the map as an important winemaking center. Alan Lakso, a Cornell Professor of pomology and viticulture, is directing a year-long survey of New York State that will create color-coded maps showing the best places to plant grapes and establish vineyards.
According to Professor Lakso,
We think Niagara County has great potential because of its similar geography and climate to the Ontario wine and grape country across the Niagara River in Canada around Niagara-on-the-Lake and towards St. Catharines…In many ways, we think that a good place for growing peaches is also a good place for wine grapes. We know Niagara County is excellent for peaches. That probably means that wine grapes will do better there than in many places…Niagara County is an area that has excellent potential that hasn't been taken advantage of yet. If they cultivate it, they could have a fruitful future.
To read an article on the topic from Business First of Buffalo go to: Niagara Co. may be peachy as a locale for wine grapes
To read our previous post on the development of wind power in Western New York go to: Greening the Rust Belt
(photo courtesy of Telluride Wine Festival)
Celebrating its 26th Anniversary, the Telluride Wine Festival will be held in its magnificent Colorado Rocky Mountain setting from Thursday, June 28th through Sunday, July 1st. The Festival features a four-day celebration of food and wine with an assortment of wine tastings and food parings; seminars taught by the nation’s most prominent sommeliers; cooking demonstrations by top chefs; raffle programs, and live and silent auctions.
One of the nation's pre-eminent wine auctioneers and sommeliers, Tom DiNardo, will preside over the event's live auctions. All proceeds from the Festival benefit local art, youth, and scholarship programs.
Chefs from the world-renowned Broadmoor are lending a culinary hand during the events, including the Patron Gala Dinner featuring Broadmoor’s Executive Chef Siegfried Eisenberger. Summit and Penrose Room Executive Chef, Bertrand Bouquin, will be leading Friday’s cooking demonstration and participating in Saturday’s luncheon.
Executive Chef Siegfried “Sigi” Eisenberger is part of an elite fraternity as only the fourth Executive Chef in the 89-year history of the resort. For more than 45 years, the Austria native has honed his culinary career across the globe. The Patron Gala will begin with a champagne reception after which guests will be seated to an amazing 5-course dinner. Dinner will be complimented with special wines selected by Wines from Spain and Steve Olson. An exciting live auction will follow dinner.
At Friday’s cooking demonstration Chef Bouquin will demonstrate that fine dining doesn’t have to be a daunting task, but one that is fun and approachable—leaving guests with skills and recipes that they can use at home. During the Saturday Winemakers Luncheon Chef Bouquin will team up with Michelle Bernstein, and Karen DeMasco to present a spectacular 5-course luncheon featuring a range of styles, ingredients and techniques. Each course will be paired with 2-3 wines to compliment the flavors of each dish. Guests will be seated with Winemakers, to complete this incredible experience.
Notable events taking place throughout the town of Telluride and Mountain Village during the Festival include a Spanish Influence Luncheon hosted by Steve Olson, Andy Nusser, and Alexandra Raij; and a reserve wine tasting program that is comprised of four tastings, led by winemakers and limited to 50 people.
To purchase tickets and to view a complete schedule of events, visit the Festival's official web site: 26th Anniversary Telluride Wine Festival
(photo courtesy of pdphoto.org)
Could the day come when we rave about a great vintage from Alaska?
That might be a little far fetched, but climatologists are warning that with the warming of the planet we may see the areas where great wines are grown moving farther North. England hasn't been appreciated as a great place for viniculurists for centuries, but the wines of Surrey may some day win the approval connoisuers. On the down side, Napa Valley could some day be as hot as California's more Southern Central Valley. Some regions in Germany and France are already benefiting from climate change, while parts of Spain and Australia are suffering from the rise in temperature.
To read an article form the Miami Herald on the potential effects of climate change on wine growing go to: Global warming may be remaking the wine map
Grand Tasting Tents (photo courtesy of Food & Wine Magazine Classic)
An impressive gathering of culinary superstars will assemble this June to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Food & Wine Magazine Classic in Aspen—one of the country’s premiere epicurean events. From June 15th to the 17th, World Famous Chefs Thomas Keller, Mario Batali, Bobby Flay, Giada De Laurentiis, Jacques Pépin, Ming Tsai, José Andrés, Masaharu Morimoto and more will gather in Aspen to share their favorite recipes and techniques in this exclusive setting.
Featuring over 80 cooking and wine seminars, the Food & Wine Classic is considered the place to uncover the latest epicurean trends. Food & Wine’s signature event features the Grand Tasting Tents with over 50,000 bottles of wine to sample and the much-anticipated 2007 Best New Chefs Dinner. In celebration of the Classic’s 25th anniversary, the magazine has pledged to raise $1 million for its Grow for Good campaign, in support of Farm to Table, a national initiative dedicated to supporting local farms and encouraging sustainable agriculture.
Tickets to the Food & Wine Magazine Classic in Aspen are $1,075. For the first time ever, there will be foodandwine.com/classic limited edition Silver Passes sold for $2,500 providing VIP access to the event, with $1,000 of the ticket directly donated to Grow for Good. Silver Pass holders will receive an invitation to the star-studded Welcome Reception and the Best New Chefs Dinner, plus a number of other exclusive benefits and gifts.
Cooking Demonstrations include:
• Thomas Keller of The French Laundry shares his restaurant secrets
• Mario Batali takes a side trip to a lesser-known area of Tuscany, exploring the foods of La Garfagnana.
• Emeril Lagasse delves into seafood with recipes from his latest, Emeril’s New Orleans Fish House.
• Giada De Laurentiis reveals delicious ways to make home-cooked pasta.
• Iron Chef America star chef Masaharu Morimoto make his debut appearance at the Food & Wine Classic with the art of sushi and sashimi.
Wine Highlights:
• An iconic tasting of the 1982 Bordeaux
• Screaming Eagle Reserve Tasting of seven vintages, a first for this cult producer
• Danny Meyer and Dan Philips showcase Green Grapes and Ham
• Josh Wesson pairs chocolate with wine
• Steve Olson celebrates 25 years of Wines from Spain
• Discover why Greek wines are the new hot buy with Michael Bonadies
• Uncover artisan wine selections from small producers with Richard Nalley
To register, call 877-900-WINE or visit: Food & Wine Magazine Classic in Aspen
Consumers using their American Express® card receive a $25 savings.
(photo courtesy of Philadephia Great Grapes Wine, Art & Food Festival)
You are invited to celebrate the taste of over 100 unique, diverse and flavorful wines! The Philadephia Great Grapes Wine, Art & Food Festival will be held at the Willowdale Steeplechase over the weekend of June 2nd & 3rd, from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm. The Pennsylvania Wineries want you to sample the essences of their best grapes while expanding your tongue's tastes. The organizers say you are guaranteed to leave the festival as the newest wine connoisseur!
Exquisite wines and eclectic music are not the only attractions awaiting your arrival. While mastering the art of wine tasting, you're welcome to stop by the Gourmet Live Cooking Demonstrations and shop amongst the unique artists. Bring home gifts, goodies and wine for all your friends and family to enjoy!
Tickets are $20 on site and $18 if purchsed in advance. If you've got a group of 20 or more the price drops to $16 per ticket. A Designated Driver Ticket (Includes admission into the event) goes for $10. Children 12 and under get in for free. Show is rain or shine. Chairs and blankets welcome! No outside food or beverage allowed. No coolers allowed. No pets please.
Tickets are Non-Refundable. To purchase advance tickets you can call 800-830-3976.
You can aslo get tickets, directions & more info by visiting the Festival web site: Philadephia Great Grapes Wine, Art & Food Festival
(photo courtesy of morguefile.com)
Just 20 years ago buying organic food was not easy. Buying organic fare didn’t get far beyond purchasing from a specialty farmer, belonging to a community food coop, or being lucky enough to have a small, independent health food store nearby.
That’s all changed. Now the nation’s largest retailer, Wal-Mart, sells organic food. For many years the sale of organic foods climbed at a rate of 20% per year. Three-fourths of the U.S. population now buys organic products, according to The Hartman Group’s research. In 2007, Americans will spend $2 billion to eat organic food.
Despite all the interest in organic food, sales of organic wine have never enjoyed the same success, but they are growing in popularity. They’re not always easy to find, but they are making their way onto store shelves and some are showing up on restaurant wine lists. The research firm Nielsen reports that sales of organic wines have grown 35% in the last 52 weeks.
One company venturing into the emerging market is The Three Thieves. They’ve introduced a new brand called True Earth, made from organically grown grapes. True Earth’s two organic wines, a red blend and a varietal Chardonnay, are made from California Certified Organic Farmers vineyards in northern California’s Mendocino County.
The wine is grown using no pesticides, herbicides, or conventional synthetic fertilizers. Minimal amounts of sulfites are used in the winemaking process to preserve freshness. The Thieves say they believe that healthy soils, plus healthy vines equal true, expressive wines with a sense of place.
“The True Earth wines are a natural extension from what we founded our company on — distinctive, value oriented wines in less traveled categories. The Organic food world is booming and I think that wine consumers have been underserved,” says The Three Thieves' Charles Bieler.
If you'd like to learn more about the organic winemaker's new brand go to: True Earth
To read an article in the New York Times on the growing interest in organic & sustainable wines go to: When the Wine Is Green
(photo courtesy of St. Michael's Food & Wine Festval)
Ready to enjoy food and wine worthy of a gourmet pallet at an event that helps fund the worthiest of causes? Then it's time to get tickets for the expanded 5th Annual St. Michaels Food & Wine Festival. The Festival will be held from Thursday, April 26th through Sunday the 29th on the grounds of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, Maryland.
The popular event attracted over 2,000 food and wine enthusiasts in 2006. The festival will celebrate its 5th year by expanding its pavilions to allow more visitors to comfortably sample distinctive foods, select fine wines and spirits, and attend educational food and wine programs and demonstrations.
In 2006, the Festival donated over $17,000 to charity. One of the chariites receiving proceeds from the event is the St. Michaels Food Bank, a non-profit organization that feeds people truly in need.
Advance tickets include several new packages, including a VIP Reception with chefs and VIP Weekend Tickets, which allow guests to take advantage of exclusive receptions and seminars. Watermark Cruises is offering a one-day cruise from Annapolis to the Festival on Saturday.
Internationally celebrated chefs will join with the region’s chefs at area restaurants to feature special wine dinners and programs. New guest chefs for 2007 include: Roberto Donna of Galileo and Bebo Trattoria, in Washington, DC; Brian McBride of the Park Hyatt Hotel, also in Washington, Bill McCarrick, former pastry chef at Harrods of London, and Tom Lewis, owner of the famous Monachyle Mhor Hotel, in Balquhidder, Scotland.
Many of the region’s finest restaurants and inns will participate in the Festival. Hotel and inn packages are available for out of town guests. They include accomodations ranging from bed & breakfasts to luxurious spas and resorts. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.
For more information and to purchase tickets, including Weekend Pavilion Tickets and VIP Weekend Passes, visit the Festival's official web site: St. Michaels Food & Wine Festival
You can also make inquiries by phone (443) 205-2185 or write: St. Michaels Food & Wine Office, PO Box 824, St. Michaels, MD 21663
(photo courtesy of morguefile.com)
I've worked in some pretty fine restaurants that never used expensive wines for cooking. The pricey stuff was saved for the customers prepared to pay for it. I think that's just the economics of making a go of it in the notoriously tough restaurant biz. Still, I never read a review saying that the beef bourguignon or any other dish was made with an inferior wine. Nor did I ever hear a customer make that complaint about the wine used in a dish I had served.
I've never been able to judge a wine that's been cooked into a dish. I've always used inexpensive wines when cooking for guests; no complaints so far. Now an article in the New York Times indicates that you don't need to use expensive wines for cooking. That's good enough for me! I'll go on cooking with inexpensive wines and save the pricier stuff to enjoy in a glass.
To read the full article in the New York Times click here: It Boils Down to This: Cheap Wine Works Fine
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