AbilityFirst 2024 50th Annual Food & Wine Festival unveils Exciting Plans Announcing Date and Unprecedented New Event Location!
50th Annual AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival Sunday, June 9, 2024
AbilityFirst proudly announces the 50th Annual AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival, scheduled for Sunday, June 9, 2024, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm and in celebration of this milestone, the event will take place at a new and enchanting location: The Urquhart Residence in South Pasadena!
The Urquhart Residence in South Pasadena!

Great crowd at the event, Courtesy of the AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival
The 50th Annual AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival is a landmark outdoor event renowned for its gourmet food and beverage tastings.
Guests will have the opportunity to indulge in culinary delights presented by a diverse array of top local restaurants, cocktail bars, breweries, and vintners.

Dulce Vida Tequila, Courtesy of the AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival
As AbilityFirst marks this special anniversary, this year’s festival promises an evening filled with exquisite flavors, entertainment, and a vibrant celebration of AbilityFirst’s mission.

Inspiring program at the event, Courtesy of the AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival
For 98 years, AbilityFirst has been at the forefront of providing person-centered programs to empower individuals with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and other intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Anita Lawler Wine, Courtesy of the AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival
These programs guide individuals through each life transition, fostering social connections, independence, and providing essential employment preparation, training, and experience.

El Cholo Cafe, Courtesy of the AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival
Proceeds from this year’s AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival will directly benefit AbilityFirst’s programs which help an individual successfully transition from childhood to adult life; providing employment preparation, training, and experience; build social connections and independence; and offer participants and their caregivers an opportunity to refresh and recharge through recreational activities.

Fun music from DJ Q Nice, Courtesy of the AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival
AbilityFirst’s person-centered programs empower individuals to discover what is important to them in their lives, and to develop the skills that are important for them to achieve their goals.

Anita Lawler
Ticket Information: The 50th Annual AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival will take place on Sunday, June 9th, 2024, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Urquhart Residence in South Pasadena.
For more information and to purchase Tickets directly to this year’s 50th Annual AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival, please visit Tickets to the 50th Annual AbilityFirst Food & Wine Festival 2024.

Dave Saeta
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LA Artist Victor Solomon Partners with Kendall-Jackson to Design NBA Co-Branded Wine Labels
Artist Victor Solomon Start Groundbreaking Partnership with Kendall-Jackson to Design NBA Co-Branded Wine Labels
Kendall-Jackson, renowned for producing America’s #1 selling Chardonnay and the NBA’s first official wine partner, is thrilled to announce a collaboration with celebrated artist and designer Victor Solomon, hailed for designing the NBA’s Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy.
Victor Solomon: Where Art Meets the NBA Hardwood
Victor Solomon is a Los Angeles-based contemporary artist who has carved out a unique niche at the intersection of art, design, and basketball culture. Known for his stunning, handcrafted works that reimagine iconic basketball symbols through the lens of luxury and fine art, Solomon has become a standout figure in the art world, particularly for his collaborations with the NBA. His work often explores the idea of basketball not just as a sport, but as a global cultural phenomenon, rich with symbolism, community, and artistry.
Solomon’s most notable project, “Literally Balling,” transforms traditional basketball hoops into breathtaking sculptures using materials like stained glass, crystal, and 24K gold. These pieces elevate the everyday aesthetic of the game into something sacred, almost cathedral-like, highlighting the deep reverence many fans hold for basketball. Beyond gallery installations, Solomon has worked directly with the NBA, designing custom trophies, court art, and luxury installations that blend the sport’s raw energy with high-end craftsmanship.
His artistry extends beyond aesthetics—Solomon’s work often reflects the evolution of basketball as a symbol of aspiration, community, and resilience. Whether through a stained glass backboard or a reimagined championship trophy, he bridges the gap between the streets and the art world, honoring the game’s history while pushing creative boundaries. In a league where storytelling is key, Victor Solomon’s art tells the NBA’s story through a lens of beauty, craftsmanship, and cultural significance.

Artist Victor Solomon Start Groundbreaking Partnership with Kendall-Jackson
This collaboration, rooted in mutual connections with the NBA, will feature Solomon’s artistic vision in designing the labels for the league’s first co-branded wines with Kendall-Jackson in Sonoma County, California.
The partnership will officially kick off during NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco, where Kendall-Jackson and Solomon will unveil the wine label designs at NBA Crossover, a multi-day fan fest event that celebrates basketball culture, part of All-Star Weekend, taking place in San Francisco February 14 – 16, 2025. Kendall-Jackson will launch a co-branded Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon, a Monterey County Chardonnay and a Lake County Sauvignon Blanc in August 2025.
“When we partnered with the NBA, we set out to uniquely blend the culture of wine with the excitement of the game,”
Chris Jackson
Co-Proprietor of Kendall-Jackson
“We are excited to partner with Victor Solomon and bring his extraordinary talents in connecting art with sports culture to the look of our first NBA co-branded wines. This partnership is a natural fit as we expand our relationship with the league and continue to explore unique ways to engage our audiences.”
The partnership brings together Kendall-Jackson’s legacy of craftsmanship and Solomon’s signature design aesthetic, which blends traditional artistry with modern inspirations. Victor Solomon’s prior work—including his acclaimed “Literally Balling” series that reimagines basketball through the lens of stained glass and fine craftsmanship—has earned him a reputation for pushing the boundaries of design in sports and culture.
“My work has always been about elevating the artistry within sport,”
Victor Solomon
“Partnering with Kendall-Jackson allows me to extend that vision by creating and celebrating a shared spirit of craftsmanship. My work has included collaborations with the NBA on bespoke trophies and immersive installations that celebrate the league’s iconic legacy. Through the tactile beauty of a wine label, this collaboration offers an opportunity to unite these worlds in a meaningful way.”
Solomon’s meticulous design process involves months of research and hands-on experimentation to craft pieces that are both visually stunning and deeply resonant. Recent projects include a Swarovski crystal basketball installation for the NBA’s 75th Anniversary celebration and his “Journey” sculpture series, which explores the evolution of the game through iconic materials. Upcoming works include collaborations with international museums and luxury brands, and a court refurbishing project throughout California, further cementing his role as a leader at the intersection of art and sports.
For more information about this partnership, visit www.kj.com/NBA. Follow Kendall-Jackson on all social platforms with handle @KJWines.
Join Us: DTLA’s Boomtown Brewery Celebrates 10th Anniversary Feb 21 – 23 with 3 days of Craft Beer, Food, Fun
Join Us: DTLA’s Boomtown Brewery Celebrates 10th Anniversary Feb 21 – 23 with 3 days of Craft Beer, Food, Fun
Boomtown Brewery, L.A.’s iconic craft beer haven nestled in the heart of the DTLA Arts District, is pulling out all the stops to celebrate 10 Years of brewing excellence with an unforgettable Boomtown Brewery 10th Anniversary Weekend!
Boomtown Brewery 10th Anniversary Weekend Feb 21 – 23
From Friday, February 21st through Sunday, February 23rd, 2025, beer lovers, locals, and visitors alike are invited to raise a glass (or several) in honor of a decade of incredible brews, community vibes, and epic events!
Patrons will enjoy three action-packed days of Craft Beer, Live Entertainment, LA’s Top Food Vendors, and good times.

Photo Credit: Nick Gingold / Craft Media LA
The Boomtown Tap Room—just steps from their cutting-edge brewery—will be buzzing with over eighteen Craft Beer selections, including fan favorites like BAD HOMBRE Mexican-Style Lager, Nose Job IPA, Chavez Ravine Hazy IPA, Mic Czech Pilsner, plus a rotating selection of styles including IPAs, Stouts, Sours, Gluten-free Seltzers, and more.

DTLA’s Boomtown Brewery’s Head Brewer Amber Sawicki // Photo Credit: Nick Gingold / Craft Media LA
With Head Brewer Amber Sawicki and Production Manager Benjamin Turkel leading the charge, guests can expect some exciting new releases to mark the occasion.
Friday, February 21st, 2025: Look-Alike Contest & Karaoke Kickoff (6:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
Come Dress as an LA Icon from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm and compete in Boomtown’s Look-Alike Contest!
Maybe we will see Fast & Furious-hero Dominic Toretto, pop sensation Billie Eilish, or Dodgers’ legend Fernando Valenzuela coming to the party and winners will receive a Boomtown Hat, Shirt, and Gift Card, with One Ultimate Winner crowned to receive a Boomtown Golden Glass Membership!
Food Vendors Correas Mariscos and Word of Mouth Truck will be onsite to fuel everyone up for Karaoke Night which will start at 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm, so step up to the mic and get $2 off your next beer just for belting out your favorite tune!
Saturday, February 22nd, 2025: The Official 10th Anniversary Party (12:00 PM – 1:00 AM)
It’s Boomtown Brewery’s 10th Birthday, and guests are invited to partake in everything Boomtown has to offer!
Sip on a full lineup of new and innovative Craft Beers while enjoying a showcase of Live Bands, Stand-Up Comedy, and Trivia from the afternoon until late at night.
Food Vendors Taqueria Frontera and Vegan Hooligans will be serving all day and night, and Tripp Burger will be serving from 6:00 pm to 12:00 Midnight. At 9:00 pm, The Funk Freaks will perform, getting everyone on their feet to dance the night away.
Sunday, February 23rd, 2025: Boomtown Brewery 10th Anniversary: INFMS Beer Hip Hop Concert & Hazy Panda IPA Beer Release (6:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
Boomtown Brewery and INFMS Beer team up once again to bring the best Hip Hop show in town, featuring the return of the Hazy Panda IPA!
Boomtown will be open to the public from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 pm. Boomtown will close briefly before reopening at 6:00 PM for ticketed guests attending Boomtown Brewery’s 10 Anniversary – INFMS Beer
Hip Hop Concert & Exclusive Beer Release featuring DJ Nu-Mark (Member of Jurassic 5), Bad Neighbor (Blu & MED), DJ C-Los, DJ Mishaps, Psycho Les & Big Twins, and Food Vendor The Wingman Official, and more.

Photo Credit: Nick Gingold / Craft Media LA
This is a 21+ Event and Tickets are required.
There is limited availability, so Get Yours Now here at Boomtown Brewery’s 10th Anniversary: INFMS Beer Hip Hop Concert & Beer Release.
BOOMTOWN BREWERY: A DECADE OF COMMUNITY, CREATIVITY & CRAFT BEER:
Since its inception, Boomtown Brewery has proudly represented Los Angeles, creating unfiltered, full-flavored craft beers with integrity. As a fixture in the DTLA Arts District, Boomtown is more than just a brewery—it’s a community hub for artists, makers, and beer lovers to connect and celebrate the creative spirit of the city.
From live music and trivia nights to open mic events and food festivals, Boomtown Brewery continues to bring people together in meaningful, memorable ways.

Photo Credit: Nick Gingold / Craft Media LA
As they celebrate this milestone, the team behind Boomtown Brewery—Owners John Rankin, Alex Kagianaris, and Samuel “Chewy” Chawinga—invite you to be part of the magic.
So, mark your calendars, spread the word, and come toast to 10 years of Boomtown Brewery!
Boomtown Brewery’s 10th Anniversary Celebration will take place Friday, February 21st, 2025, through Sunday, February 23rd, 2025, with Saturday, February 22nd, 2025, being their official 10th Anniversary Celebration, from 12:00 noon to 1:00 am. Saturday, February 22nd is a 21+ Event after 8:00 pm and this event is Free to attend, and no tickets are needed.
For more information and to purchase Tickets to Boomtown Brewery’s 10th Anniversary: INFMS Beer Hip Hop Concert & Beer Release on Sunday, February 23rd, 2025, please visit Boomtown Brewery’s 10th Anniversary: INFMS Beer Hip Hop Concert & Beer Release!
Cheers to 10 years of Boomtown Brewery—here’s to many more!
Social Media: Follow Boomtown Brewery on Instagram @boomtowmbrewery, Facebook @Boomtown.Brewery, andTikTok @Boomtown.Brewery
Boomtown Brewery
700 Jackson Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
T: 213.617.8497
Los Angeles Superbowl Parties: Best Places to Watch the Super Bowl LIX in Los Angeles: Top Bars, Rooftops, and Watch Parties
Celebrate the Superbowl with parties in Los Angeles at the Best Places to Watch the Super Bowl LIX in Los Angeles: Top Bars, Rooftops, and Watch Parties
Super Bowl LIX is shaping up to be an epic showdown, and there are plenty of reasons to be excited—especially for football fans in Los Angeles.
The game will be played at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans in 2025, bringing the championship back to one of the most electric football cities in the country. With potential powerhouse teams in contention, star quarterbacks in their prime, and evolving offensive schemes redefining the game, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Plus, the Super Bowl’s return to New Orleans means an unmatched atmosphere, with a city known for its legendary food, music, and nightlife turning the event into a week-long festival. Whether you’re watching for the game, halftime show, or just the excuse to throw an epic party, Super Bowl LIX is set to deliver in every way.
Now if you’re not interested in all the sports socializing, and would rather stay home, don’t worry — Super Bowl LIX is airing live on FOX, and Kendrick’s performance will be available on Tubi, NFL+, the NFL mobile app, and SiriusXM. The halftime performance will showcase Kendrick’s iconic raps, and SZA will be joining him as well.
The Ultimate Super Bowl LIX Food and Drink Pairings
The Super Bowl is as much about the food and drinks as it is about the game, with fans across the country indulging in classic comfort foods paired with the perfect beverages.
Buffalo wings and ice-cold beer are the undisputed MVPs of game-day dining—whether it’s a crisp lager, a hoppy IPA, or a smooth wheat beer, the carbonation and bitterness help cut through the heat of the spicy wings.
Nachos piled high with cheese, jalapeños, and seasoned meat call for a refreshing margarita or a Mexican lager, both of which enhance the bold flavors while keeping the palate refreshed.
For barbecue lovers, smoky pulled pork sandwiches or ribs are best paired with a bourbon-based cocktail like an Old Fashioned or a rich, malty brown ale to complement the deep, caramelized flavors.
For those who prefer snacks that are easy to grab between plays, loaded potato skins or classic onion dip with chips pair well with a smooth pilsner or a light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to balance the richness. If pizza is on the menu—another Super Bowl staple—a medium-bodied red wine like Zinfandel or a classic pale ale enhances the tangy tomato sauce and gooey cheese.
On the sweeter side, chocolate chip cookies or brownies go great with a dark stout or a creamy espresso martini, making for a winning dessert combo. No matter who you’re rooting for, the right food and drink pairings make the Super Bowl an even more enjoyable experience, ensuring that every bite and sip is as satisfying as a game-winning touchdown.
Superbowl with parties in Los Angeles
Now, on to the L.A. Super Bowl watch parties…
Grandmaster Recorders to Watch Super Bowl LIX
Grandmaster Recorders is the place to be for the Super Bowl, offering two incredible spaces to catch the big game. Their rooftop bash is legendary, letting you soak in all the action with the Hollywood Sign as your backdrop, making for a one-of-a-kind viewing experience.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Downstairs at Studio 71, you’ll find a cozy, dark ambiance with a state-of-the-art sound system and massive screen, perfect for an immersive game-day vibe. Whether you’re looking for high-energy rooftop views or an intimate, cinematic football experience, Grandmaster Recorders delivers an unforgettable way to watch the Super Bowl.
Learn more: Grandmaster Recorders
Location: 1518 N Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Paragon Bar and Grill
Paragon Bar and Grill, a favorite in the 818, is the go-to spot for an epic Super Bowl watch party every year. With delicious food, a huge selection of beers on tap, and bucket specials, it’s the perfect place to kick back and enjoy the game with fellow fans.
But the fun doesn’t stop at food and drinks—giveaways and special promotions make the atmosphere even more exciting, so it feels like everyone walks away a winner. Whether you’re there for the football, the food, or just the electric energy, Paragon Bar and Grill knows how to throw a Super Bowl party done right.
Learn more: Paragon Bar and Grill
Location: 8319 Louise Ave, Northridge, CA 91325
Barney’s Beanery to watch Super Bowl LIX
All Barney’s Beanery locations across Los Angeles are turning into the ultimate Super Bowl hotspots, with the game playing on 40+ TVs and multiple projectors with full sound. No matter where you sit, you’ll have a prime view of all the action.
With their lively atmosphere, great food, and plenty of drinks to go around, Barney’s is the perfect place to post up with friends and watch every play, touchdown, and commercial. Whether you’re there for the game or just the good vibes, you won’t miss a moment of the action!
Locations:
- Santa Monica: 1351 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA
- West Hollywood: 8447 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA
- Pasadena: 99 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105
- Burbank: 250 N 1st St, Burbank, CA 91502
3rd Base
3rd Base is bringing sports fans the ultimate Super Bowl bash, combining upscale dining, craft cocktails, and their famous two-tier tequila trees for a next-level game-day experience. Whether you’re there for the big plays or just the top-notch food and drinks, this spot knows how to do game day right.
This year, they’re offering general admission, seat reservations, and table reservations, so you can lock in your spot for the action. Just keep in mind—food and beverage minimums apply, but with their killer menu and drink selection, meeting the minimum won’t be a problem!
Learn more: 3rd Base
Location: 1562 N Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
Best Places to Watch Super Bowl LIX in Los Angeles
About the Author
Joe Wehinger (nicknamed Joe Winger) has written for over 20 years about the business of lifestyle and entertainment. Joe is an entertainment producer, media entrepreneur, public speaker, and C-level consultant who owns businesses in entertainment, lifestyle, tourism and publishing. He is an award-winning filmmaker, published author, member of the Directors Guild of America, International Food Travel Wine Authors Association, WSET Level 2 Wine student, WSET Level 2 Cocktail student, member of the LA Wine Writers. Email to: Joe@FlavRReport.comYou Might also like
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Italy’s Trentodoc makes history with Sparkling Wine, Giacomo Malfer reveals their Tasty Secret
Italy’s Trentodoc has a history of producing incredible sparkling wine, Giacomo Malfer reveals their tasty secret.
We had the chance to sit down with Revi Trentodoc’s Giacomo Malfer to talk about the Italian Trentino region, their multi-generational family business, favorite foods, and of course their legendary sparking wines.
Listen to the podcast here:
Giacomo, Can you share some of your favorite memories that include a wonderful sparkling wine celebration?
I’m very happy to talk about Revi and my family and my world. One of the best memories that I remember with sparkling wine Trentodoc was my 30th party. I invited a lot of friends. The bottles, one by one [were poured and put] on the floor [lined up] around the house. But, the most important thing was the joy, the happiness, to enjoy that party.
In history, Trentodoc sparkling wine is the best product for celebrations. So celebrating my birthday or other important things in life is one of the best things that we produce of that kind of product can make because We work our life to produce something people enjoy the best highlights of the life. So what’s better? And one of my best memories is my 30th birthday party.
You mentioned celebrating with your family. Tell me what it’s like growing up in a winemaking family.
Paolo, my father, for me is a common star because when I was young, I never wanted to go on with the winery. It’s funny to know because today it’s my life. Sometimes [I feel like] it is my girlfriend. Francesca is my real girlfriend. So it’s matches perfectly now with my life and with my private life.
Courtesy of http://www.revispumanti.com/
Someone said that if you love your work, you’ll never work a day in your life. I think that idea is very important. As I said earlier, there is something very beautiful about making something that people used to celebrate.
I remember when my father Paolo would talk about wine and producing wine, his eyes would shine. That shine was one of the first things that was useful for me to start and work in the wine industry. I remember that Paolo said to us to do what we wanna do, not follow the winery. Because it was his passion, not his first job. He said, ‘this is my passion. I want to work with Revi as a passion.’ In fact for 30 years that was not his job. He started when he was 13 years old.
He was in a classroom with only females. He found a book with an article on Dom Perignon. He came home and asked my grandfather [for] some white wines because we were an agriculture family. And he said, I wanna make champagne now. And my grandfather laughed, because my Dad was just a young boy. But you know what? He said, okay, you can try a very small batch.
My grandmother made bread each week, so Paulo asked my grandmother for some yeast, and put it inside with the sugar.
And on Christmas of 1963, my family enjoyed the holiday with methodic champagne noir. Because in Italy at that time we could name the methodic champagne, the classic method with the second fermentation in the bottle. And so after that, he studied at school, and then he started with Revi in 1982. And for 30 years it was his hobby.
I believe it was one of the most important things, to grow up with passion, in my father, in my brother Stefano and in me, because he’s never forced us to follow that.
We both studied economics. But I remember many memories about when my grandmother would take the broth to the people who helped my father in the winery. I have some memories that is between the brain and the heart. I believe that premise was the first seed to grow the passion. After that, my brother Stefano, the producer and manager; we followed because we were tasting all the time with my family together. We are looking for a very clean, very fresh identity wine of our region.
The best thing that I believe our father gave us is a way to read the wine world. This is the identity. We always want to find in Revi our territory. He was one of the first to produce the zero dosage. We have been producing zero dosage or pas dose, you know, that is the same since 1983. The first harvest of the first vintage of pas dose Revi was 1981. It was very, very uncommon for that period, even just five years ago it was uncommon. But 40 years ago.
I believe inside that particular label is the philosophy of our winery, and we want go on with that. So the second generation, me and my brother Stefano, for sure, we wanna follow that.
There’s a lot less magic in economics than there is in sparkling wine. Was there a moment when you realized, ‘I need more magic?’
Yes, I remember. When I was 13 or 14 years old, and I was helping my father in the vineyard, I didn’t like it because it was very warm and some activities were very slow. My friends would go to the swimming pool, and I was with my father. So I said, I want my office, with my shirt and air conditioning and not be here.
But at the end, I really love the people and finding magic. Because it all starts from a piece of wood and arrives at the end in a bubble, in the most beautiful moment that you put that wine in a glass and enjoy with your friends and your family.
There was not a very clear moment when I changed my mind and said no economics, but wine making for sure.
I made the commercial part of the winery. So economics is important and now it’s the economics of a winery. I found a very good way to have a little bit economics and stay in the best [wine] world.
I always tell my friends and my girlfriend, we are working for something that others work for the Saturday night or the Friday night. That is super beautiful, because celebrating is the best thing. To enjoy life is to celebrate the big things and the small things. The small things could be simpler, pizza with friends.
I think the theme that I’m learning is the magic of celebration. Let’s seque to the magic of your region.
Yes, for sure. The [Dolomite] mountains area is one of the important things. And thanks to the mountain region, we can have the freshness, the aromas that come up from the difference in temperature between day and night.
At the same time, we have a region that goes from 200 meters in altitude over to 700 meters. More than 70% is over 1,000 meters in altitude. So it’s a very mountain region. And the valley also is a mountain valley, because the fresh air comes down from the mountains and goes through our vineyards. That’s increases the performance and the structure we find in our glass of trentodoc.
Wine Enthusiast awarded us as one of the best wine areas for Trentodoc because we can have the maturity of the grapes, and at the same time we defend the freshness. So we have a balance between the complexity, the perfumes, the aromas thanks to the mature grapes. We don’t forget and lose the freshness, the acidity freshness, very important to enjoy, because at the end, one bottle, one glass, you have to drink to enjoy it.
Another thing that is important here is the soil, limestone, there are different soils. And that gives us some different shades about Trentodoc. This is one of the most important things not only here in Trentodoc, but in the wine world.Drinking is a way to take a trip in your life. It’s very nice to drink the same wine, the same grapes in the same area, but at the same time, find something different. Not only because its comes from different wine growers, but because the soil, the terroir.
For example, Albano, the small village where I come from, where Revi was born.
Re Vino [translates to] “king wine”, because it was one of the best areas in Albano, my village, to produce grapes for wine. Albano was named from Veronelli, one of the best and most important, wine journalists in Italy.Why? Because many private people in the area made their own classic method, sparkling wine. It was an agricultural village, but they didn’t make only still wine. They made sparkling wine. So that is the terroir. That is the the know-how, the idea of one place, not only the type of soil or the wind.
Here in Trentino, in our vineyard we have some of the best soil, Cavaliere Nero.
Cavaliere Nero is 100% Pinot Noir, it’s clay and red marble. Now red marble was the motherstone. And we have clay. It is a very important Pinot Noir. It is a very important red pinot noir dressed by the bubbles.Sticking with the region for a moment, tell us about what’s it like living in that area today?
It’s a mountain region so we have ski slopes we can enjoy in the winter season. But the mountains are really magic during the summer. On my summer holidays, I want to go to the sea. We have one of the best lakes in Italy, Llago di Garda.
A few weeks ago there was the Gambero Rosso event, where I tasted your sparklers for the first time. Let’s talk about the bottles.
You tasted the classic one, Revi Brut Trentodoc, the Revi Reserve 2012.
Revi Brut Trentodoc has 40 months on lees. Both are Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
The Chardonnay grown here in Trentodoc gives very good aromas, good acidity, good freshness. Pinot Noir in more in altitude, gives us the body.Courtesy of http://www.revispumanti.com/
In the Pinot Noir of the brut, it’s only for the body. Not for the structure.
With aging, the wine comes out with notes of Pinot Noir. In fact, in the Reserva 2012 or other Revi, when it stays many months on the yeast, you find the perfumes of the Pinot Noir, we have the classic line: Revi Brut, Revi Rose, Revi Dosaggio Fero. They are all made with a cuvee of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. 20% white and more in the rose, because we have 70%, helps us to give a lot of structure and body.
Chardonnay is a major part of it and that is very important for the Brut as for the Reserva, because it gives us the freshness in the Reserva.
People always ask me which is my favorite, the Brut or the Reserva?
It really depends. It depends on the time of day and my mood. In the summer when it is warm, I like really a glass of fresh Brut classic, because it’s simple. I want to chill out a little.
Then on the same day at dinner we drink a glass or a bottle of Reserva tasting and pairing with some foods.
With the Brut, the tasting notes are apples. One of the classic notes. Toasted nuts. All very light and delicate.
If you ask me what to expect if you taste a glass of Revi Brut, you have to expect some fresh apples, some flowers, a little toast, and freshness and joy on the palate.
For the food pairing, some salami or fromage, very simple aperitivo that you can have in your house.One of the best pairings that I really love is with pappardelle or a pasta with white ragu and parmesano, because it’s delicate and a little bit salty. Parmesano’s taste is not so aggressive, it’s also delicate. And with the Brut I love a lot.
I love pappardelle, I love pasta for sure. I’m Italian, you know, so… I’m a pasta lover.
Thinking about Reserva, you can really go all over the world with the taste. You can also pair with fusion cuisine, you can have some more taste.In our Reserva, we have the structure, the body, the complexity at the same time, the very freshness. So you can enjoy that glass with some fatty foods, because it’ll clean up your mouth and have structure. Carpaccio, branzino, fresh fish.
Is there a unique or surprising food that you wouldn’t traditionally think pairs well with your wines and yet it did?
I love surprising myself with pairing foods. As you were talking, I was thinking of risotto with porcini, with gouda.
During the [pandemic] lockdown I stayed with my family and during our Sunday meals, we had a violet rosemary [herb sprig] inside a glass was amazing.
I believe, one of the best important things, if you are in a winery, in a restaurant, you have to taste and try. Be curious.
Something we really aim for with our audience is helping someone who’s curious and eager, helping them understand what they’re trying so they can have more appreciation for the taste and the flavor.
Can you walk us through the process of the classic method?
The first part, it’s common, like still wine. You grow the grapes. It’s very important to have high quality raw materials at the start. Then you have harvest after one year. Then you press, you have the first fermentation, that is the vinification.
The very important different thing about sparkling wine and a classic method, for example, in 100% Chardonnay is when you want to have a chardonnay for a base of sparkling wine, you have to have more acidity. So your harvest is a couple of weeks [earlier]. It depends on the velocity of the maturation.
But we can say between one and two weeks before, because you have to preserve the freshness, the acidity.
Then after harvest, you have a different vinification. It depends if you want to, to make a rose or a white wine. In that case, you have a maceration on the skin of the grapes of Pinot Noir. If you want a Blanc de Noir, a white wine from Pinot Noir, you have to separate the skin of the grapes, from the juice.
After the first fermentation we make the cuvee. We sit with my family and taste, and discuss which kind of chardonnay goes inside with some percentage of Pinot Noir.
For example, we talked about the Revi Brut and 80% of Chardonnay, and 20% Pinot Noir. So [a blend of] Chardonnay 1-2, and 7 with 20% of Pinot Noir or a [blend of a] couple of Pinot Noirs, it depends on the vintage of the year.After that, we put inside the Liqueur de tirage, so yeast and sugar, like [if you] make bread. You put all inside a bottle and you cork. So, the yeast starts eating the sugar and give us the bubbles.
That activity let’s the yeast work.
One important thing for Trentodoc it it’s made with only grapes of the Trento area: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Blanc.
First of all, we use Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. In Revi we use only Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
To be Trentodoc, it has to stay on the lees, for a minimum 15 months. To be Vintage Trentodoc, it has to stay for two years, 24 months. We have two years on the grapes of just one harvest.
For example, the 2018, to be Reserva Trentodoc has to stay minimum three years on lees, so 36 months with just one harvest.
After that, we have the bubbles inside the bottle, also the yeast. So we have to make the. [Years ago] we made it all by hand, today is automatic. It’s useful to clean up the wine from the yeast to have at the end of this activity a brilliant sparkling wine. Then we have the disgorgement. The isgorgement is made with glass, so we freeze that part of the yeast.
And with the pressure between six and seven bar with the disgorge. So we open the bottle, the pressure pulls out that cork freeze of yeast, and we have a very brilliant, sparkling wine.If we don’t add [anything] because, sparkling wine is special wine, because we can add sugar, and with the sugar, we can define the type of Trentodoc sparkling wines who had, for example, de Natura, de Dossagio Ferro, after we have the extra Brut Brut, and go on with more sugar wine.
We can add something to create a very secret recipe of each winery. At the end, a couple of month minimum to recalibrate the sparkling wine, with this liquor disposition. We have the magic done. From some grapes to a glass full of emotional, nice moments and full of bubbles.
Outstanding. The magic and the science involved,.
Our payoff is when magic and technique meet, because that is sparkling wine.
As we wrap up, where can we find Revi, browse and shop?
I wanna ask your audience to be our ambassador. You have to go and ask [restaurants and shops] about Revi. When you find Revi, you have to try Revi.
When you don’t find Revi, you have to ask for it.
You can find us on Instagram and on our website Revi.com.
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SNL Legend Darrell Hammond, DJ Paul Oakenfold Celebrate Comic Christine Peake’s Birthday at Sunset Strip’s Hotel Ziggy to Support Breast Cancer Bandit
SNL Legend Darrell Hammond, DJ Paul Oakenfold Celebrate Comic Christine Peake’s Birthday at Sunset Strip’s Hotel Ziggy to Support Breast Cancer Bandit
Comic Marisa Sullivan with Christine Peake
Hotel Ziggy was jam-packed to celebrate Comic Christine Peake’s birthday February 5.
Comedian and show Producer Christine Peake seen with CEO Jake Kloberdanz of sponsor ONEHOPE wine,her son Oliver Peake & his girlfriend Chandra East // Photo: Christine Peake
Spotted among the crowd was SNL legend Darrell Hammond, One Hope Wine’s CEO Jake Kloberdanz, comics Marisa Sullivan, Cat Ce, Greg Baldwin, Elijah Blue Allman and wife Queenie, Executive Lainie Jordan, Media Publisher Joe Winger, indie filmmakers Susan Dynner and Alesia Glidewell.
Elijah Blue Allman and Queeny King. PHOTO: EUGENE POWERS PHOTOGRAPHY
Comedians Thash Mose, Christine Peake, Marisa Sullivan and Marc Gordon
The show started with a “this is your life” inspired segment hosted by Mark Gordon that walked Christine through her famed, outrageous, and notorious history. Her modeling days, her celebrity days, being a mother, and most of all – being a badass.
Author Scott Nathan was chatting with DJ Paul Oakenfold about his new book “The Big Book Of Bad Decisions”
Christine Peake had an explosive night. Unapologetic, and all smiles. She walks on stage with a Liza Minelli via 1970s “Cabaret” vibe, all sass and attitude. Within moments the crowd explodes with a “Did she really just say that??” feeling. Oh, she did. And she’s gonna go way further.
Peake razzle dazzles on stage, melting away any “cancel culture” chilly vibe and creating a hot room for big laughs. She pops and shimmies across the stage in a Charlie Chaplin’s classic “Tramp” kinda way, while letting loose on politics, culture, and all the thoughts her audience is thinking, but are too afraid to say — she says them!
Keep an eye on Marisa Sullivan. A veteran of sketch comedy, but tonight was her first stand-up show. Powerful, brave, sensual and funny. She is a cancer survivor and founded Breast Cancer Bandit. She teases us along, slowly going deep, getting real, more vulnerable with her life’s journey. Then, like a comic ninja, she attacks with her biggest joke. Big heart, even bigger laughs.
Greg Baldwin is equal parts “aw shucks, nice guy”, self-help guru and deranged clown. He’s been through alot and he makes jokes through even the darkest parts. One second we’re sharing a cathartic moment, the next step we’re laughing at his zany adventures.
Socialite Linda Chou, Comedian Christine Peake and actress Nika Khitrova // photo David Chou
Darrell Hammond continues his reign of making laugh out loud comedy look easy. I’ve seen him live 6 times and every time the room shakes with laughter. Tonight he used the intimate setting to bring some crowd work into his act and the laughs echoed out onto the Sunset Strip.
Darrell Hammond // photo: by Arpit Mehta
DJ Paul Oakenfold brought rhythmic love and thunder to close out the night. Intense, wild and lords of love! Oakenfold knows how to crank the party to 11 and he and his music brought it to a rainy Monday night.
Hotel Ziggy
West Hollywood’s Hotel Ziggy Is a Place for the Creative Renegades. Part Music Venue, Part Boutique Hotel. Their Stylish Accommodations Are the Perfect Oasis.
ChocoVivo
ChocoVino is the first bean to bar chocolate factory in LA. In 2009, ChocoVivo’s journey began at one farmer’s market stand stone-grinding cacao nibs from bean-to-bar. Fourteen years later, they’ve changed lives and contributed positively to the community and evolved with the mantra “Simple is Better”. Today they offer tastings, tours and a variety of high quality chocolate for sale.
BTL SVC
The 1934 Cosmo, Gin martini, Old fashioned, Sidecar, Manhattan. They offer all the classic cocktails and more!
The BTL SVC family of cocktails are a symbol of craftsmanship and passion. Made with only the finest ingredients, each one is as unique as the individual
Tikkun Holistic Spa
All lucky guests found a celebrity favorite, Tikkun Holistic Spa, pass on their seats
Aqua Hydrate Water
The performance water is formulated for people with or seeking an active lifestyle. AQUAhydrate offers superior hydration without sugar or calories.
Parch Agave Cocktail
Taking a break from alcohol? This tasty mocktail is your answer. A citrus and bittersweet cocktail that showcases the lively pairing of Organic Blue Weber Agave, Prickly Pear Cactus Fruit, Grapefruit & Orange Bitters
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Los Angeles: With Moby Pod, Multi-Award-Winning Rocker Moby Joins Podcasting World
Moby Pod celebrates the artist’s unique perspective on the world of music, activism, and so much more.
There are some people who master one skill, and then there are some whose creative versatility seems to know no bounds. That’s multi-hyphenate artist MOBY.
Moby, the award-winning punk rocker-turned-electronica artist, who has sold 20+ million records across the globe, has joined the podcast age and launched Moby Pod (available on all podcast platforms).
The new show is distributed in partnership with the Human Content podcast network.
Still as active as ever, this year has been full of releases, records, and real conversations with people all from Moby’s circle.
With Moby Pod, Multi-Award-Winning Rocker Moby Joins Podcasting World
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to tour with David Bowie, cure your panic attacks with your own musical creation, or own the world’s dirtiest teacups, Moby Pod is a must-listen.
The podcast, which stars the renowned musician himself and his co-host and producer, Lindsay Hicks, offers Moby’s personal and professional insights in addition to sharing unique perspectives on the world of music, animal activism, and beyond.
Moby Pod, which releases new episodes every other week, features Moby’s occasional sit-downs with surprising guests to discuss their careers, creative processes, and more.
Listeners who are fans of Moby’s music and those simply interested in hearing candid conversations with fascinating people alike, you will find something engaging, thought-provoking, and entertaining each week.
Early guests have included Derrick Green, renowned vocalist of the groundbreaking metal band Sepultura (2/10); American actress and painter Lisa Edelstein(3/10); and actor and sustainability advocate Ed Begley Jr. (7/28).
“I went where everyone went, the world of podcasting!”
Moby jokes
“I love talking, and I love having fascinating conversations with fascinating people, so this podcast has been a long time coming.”
In addition to his podcast debut, Moby made his directorial debut with the worldwide premiere of his new film, Punk Rock Vegan Movie, at the Slamdance Film Festival in Park City, Utah in January. “Punk Rock Vegan Movie,which has now won “Best Documentary” at multiple film festivals, explores the ongoing relationship between punk rock and animal rights.
A longtime vegan and animal rights activist himself, Moby is offering his film for free to spread the importance and urgency of his message: going vegan to protect the world’s animals.
And there’s more!
On May 12, Moby released his new album “Resound NYC” via Deutsche Grammophon / Universal. The album features reimagined versions of some of his best-known tracks with new vocalists, including Gregory Porter, Ricky Wilson (Kaiser Chiefs), Margo Timmons, and Amythyst Kiah.
New Moby Pod episodes release every other week on all podcast platforms.
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