Wine Country

For Your Passover Seder Table, From the Holy Land of Israel, Carmel Winery Premiers Two New Outstanding Red Wines

By Joe Winger — 1 year ago

From the Holy Land of Israel to Your Passover Seder Table, Carmel Winery Premiers Two New Outstanding Red Wines from Its Premium Brand, Carmel Signature

Israel’s largest and leading winery, Carmel Winery, is expanding its premium wine brand – Carmel Signature with two new red varietals just in time for Passover.

The Carmel Signature fine wines were launched two years ago with great success as the luxury wine brand of Carmel Winery, and includes four series: Vats, Single Vineyards, and two iconic wines, Carmel Mediterranean and Limited Edition.

Carmel Winery Premiers Two New Outstanding Red Wines from Its Premium Brand, Carmel Signature

As part of their ongoing innovation, Carmel is expanding the Single Vineyard series with the introduction of two new wines produced from vineyards grown in volcanic soil. These two wines join the other exceptional wines offered in the Carmel Single Vineyard series.

The new Volcano series is comprised of fine wines from the best vineyards of the winery’s unique and rich terroir.

According to Etti Edri, Export Manager at Carmel Winery, “The Carmel brand introduces new selections of wines to its Signature series, along with a prestigious and up-to-date new look. These two new wines, a Cabernet Sauvignon and a Merlot, are both grown in an Upper Galilee vineyard rich in volcanic soil, hence the name Volcano. These are the wines worth waiting for, to celebrate memorable occasions and milestones. And, both are a perfect complement to the upcoming Passover holiday.”

Carmel Winery CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2019 MACHPEA HILL

CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2019 MACHPEA HILL

Vintage 2019, Dry red wine, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. After gentle pressing and fermentation in stainless steel vats, the wine is aged in French oak barrels for 18 months and continued to mature in its bottle for another year. The wine’s subtle aromas include black and red fruit, cinnamon, vanilla, fresh red strawberry fruit flavors, tobacco, and mint. This premier wine is rich and full bodied, with soft and powerful tannins and a long and elegant finish. This wine will continue to mature over the coming years, and pairs well with dishes such as roasted lamb chops, roast beef, or smoked cheddar cheese. This vineyard is located in the northern Galilee, at an altitude of 915 meters (3,000ft) above sea level. This is a vineyard with an area of 30 dunams (7.4 acres), which was planted in 2014. (MSRP: $60)

Carmel Winery MERLOT 2019 EVYATAR CREEK

MERLOT 2019 EVYATAR CREEK

Vintage 2019, Dry red wine, 100% Merlot. This wine was aged in French oak barrels for 18 months and continued to mature in its bottle for another year. The wine’s complex and powerful aroma combines red and black fruits, black pepper, mint, and licorice, with a fresh and ripe taste. Characterized by a full to medium body, it presents balanced tannins on the palette, and has a long, slightly bitter and refreshing finish. This wine pairs well with dishes such as roasted lamb chops, roast beef or smoked cheddar cheese. The vineyard is located in the Upper Galilee. (MSPR: $60)

Yiftah Perets, Head Winemaker, Carmel Winery, says, “Carmel Signature draws on the long-standing traditions of Carmel Winery, a mix of old and new, including respect for the past while incorporating innovation and technology to produce the best possible wines from the best vineyards. The entire wine making process is overseen with preciseness from start to finish, from the selection of the vineyards, fermentation, and dedicated families of growers, to the wine’s bottling and aging.

The wines are produced in unique growing areas, reflecting the regional differentiation, and illustrate how growing regions perform in harmony with specific varieties adaptation, to produce some of the finest wines from the flagship Carmel Winery collection.”

Carmel’s new Signature wines, Merlot Evyatar Creek, and Cabernet Machphea Hill, were recently launched at the Kosher Food & Wine Experience in NYC, hosted by Royal Wine Corp.

For additional information visit the CARMEL WINERY website and Royal Wine Corp., the largest producer, importer and exporter of kosher wines.

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Springtime in NYC’s La Grande Boucherie Offers a New Menu led by Executive Chef Maxime Kien

By Joe Winger — 1 year ago

It’s springtime in NYC and Manhattan’s La Grande Boucherie Offers an inspired New Springtime Menu led by Executive Chef Maxime Kien.

Starting March 15, La Grande Boucherie is offering a new menu for Spring time. In addition to its best-selling current menu, the new items led by Executive Chef Maxime Kien promises dishes you won’t find on any other Manhattan menu, such as the refreshing Salad De Poireaux.

The goal of the menu under Executive Chef Maxime Kien’s leadership is to keep the plates simple and express the food’s pure expression, not to distract with too many flavors, but rather to be true to one specific flavor and present it in its best form.

Manhattan’s La Grande Boucherie

Manhattanites and foodies already find the name La Grande Boucherie very familiar as it’s the most-booked restaurant in the city and the other NYC restaurants within the company include Boucherie Union Square, Boucherie West Village, Petite Boucherie.

Executive Chef Maxime Kien is a world-renowned chef with more than two decades of experience in fine dining. Growing up in the Côte D’azur region of Southern France, Maxime developed a deep appreciation for natural ingredients Southern France has to offer.

He has worked in several esteemed establishments around the country. The Hilton in Cleveland and Cincinnati, the only AAA Five Diamond recipient in Ohio and one out of 68 in the United States. His most recent position was Resort Executive Chef at Nemacolin Woodland Resort, a 5 Star 5 Diamond property in Pennsylvania.

Over the next several months, The Group NYC is launching restaurants in major cities throughout North America and Executive Chef Maxime Kien is a leader in that revolution.

Today we walk through a decadent and delicious multi-course meal.

Executive Chef Maxime Kien explains:

Tonight you’re gonna be tasting all the new dishes that started two nights ago. The idea would be to transition from what was done in the past and now with me coming in and bringing a different vibe.

People think about French food and they think about heavy food, a lot of butter, a lot of cream, strong flavors, but sometimes it’s depending on which part of France you come from, it’s gonna be something completely different. If you drive for 30 minutes, it may feel like it’s the same region, but no, it’s gonna be different aromas, different flavors, different techniques.

So tonight is going to be some dishes that we just started that are going to be a little bit more on the lighter version as we approach spring and summer.

I believe a good idea would be to start with the leek salad. It’s very light. The idea of taking a simple product [such] as a leek and then making it as your starter dish. I’m not trying to be pretentious. You can go anywhere in the city and you will not find a leek salad on any other menu besides us. I did that menu for my tasting for Emil (Stefkov), the owner, and he absolutely loved it.

And that, to me, was good recognition to put that on the menu because it’s simple it’s rustic, but it’s very flavorful; and you’re not gonna find it anywhere else.

After that, the scallops. That’s another dish that I did for Emil and everybody loved it. And so we’ll be able to see dishes that have just gotten started.

I explain to Chef Max that I always look for a “story” within the courses, from starter to entree to dessert and more. Is he telling a story with his courses?

My story is: simplicity is best. I don’t try to do an overly-complicated dish that you’re not gonna be able to understand. So simplicity. Taking a beautiful product as simple as a leek, [deciding what’s] gonna complement it, and it’s gonna give you a chance to be able to taste something that hopefully you’ve never tasted before, or not in that fashion at least. Being able to say, ‘Oh, you know what? That leek salad was so simple that it was beautiful. That’s what I’m trying to accomplish. That’s the whole story.’

Boucherie Old Fashioned Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Espolon Anejo, Lavender, Plum

Boucherie Old Fashioned

Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Espolon Anejo, Lavender, Plum

An excellent rendition of the Classic Old Fashioned. The lavender adds dimension to the nose. The Espolon Anejo added spice to the mouth.

Chef Maxime Chien La Grande Boucherie Salad De Poireaux

Salad De Poireaux

Braised leeks and smashed eggs vinaigrette topped with roasted hazelnuts.

This is a meal by itself. Refreshing, but providing an earthy note. An excellent palate cleanser. But surprisingly filling starter dish.

Chef Maxine Kien’s La Grande Boucherie Les St Jacques Roties

Les St Jacques Roties

Roasted scallops, thyme polenta, and herb salad

This was presented exactly as I could have wished for. Per Chef Max’s suggestion, it was a simple dish, delivered incredibly well. It was heaven to look at, smell and taste. By my third bite, I still wanted more.

Branzino

Pan-Seared Mediterranean Branzino, topped with Olive Oil vinaigrette and watercrest salad.

A perfect combination of flavors. The white fish was tender and flavorful. The carrot, onion side was a partner without ever overwhelming the star of the plate. Highly recommend.

Chef Maxime Kien’s La Grande Bouchiere Flan Parisien

Flan Parisien

Vanilla Malagasy custard with gianduja heart

Pushing your spoon into the crust as it bursts creates a sensual triumph. The flan’s crumbly, biscuit-like texture allows your spoon to ease in and pull out the most delicious Vanilla Malagasy. You might promise yourself you’re only going to have one bite. But this plate deserves more attention leaving you craving a second or third spoon visit. And honestly, you’ll be dreaming about it again tonight.

Chef Max fulfills his promise. Not only are the new menu items light, Spring and Summer-oriented, but they’re unique to Manhattan.

If you’re a passionate foodie who craves new and invented plated, full of original flavors, presented simply, but powerfully, you need to visit La Grande Boucherie.

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Sixth annual Masters of Taste, food and beverage festival Sunday, April 2nd at Pasadena’s Rose Bowl

By Joe Winger — 2 years ago

LA Foodies: Masters of Taste returns to Pasadena’s Rose Bowl April 2 Introducing Chef Michael & Kwini Reed

Come celebrate and be part of the sixth annual Masters of Taste, as L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival returns and will be taking place on Sunday, April 2^nd, 2023, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on the field of the Iconic Pasadena Rose Bowl.

100% of the proceeds will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a non-profit organization celebrating 50 years of providing homeless services and housing for thousands of neighbors.

LA Foodies: Masters of Taste Returns to Pasadena’s Rose Bowl April 2 Introducing Chef Michael & Kwini Reed

LA Foodies: Masters of Taste returns to Pasadena’s Rose Bowl April 2 Introducing Chef Michael & Kwini Reed

Masters of Taste is introducing Chef Michael Reed and Kwini Reed as Hosts of Masters of Taste 2023 which also marks the 6^th Anniversary of this celebrated event. Masters of Taste 2023 Culinary Master and Host Chef Michael Reed is a classically trained chef and restaurateur, who has spent 19 years as a chef for restaurants across New York and Los Angeles.

Today, Chef Reed is the co-owner and Executive Chef behind two Los Angeles restaurants, Poppy + Rose of Downtown Los Angeles, and Anaheim’s Poppy & Seed.

In addition to the two concepts, Chef Reed and his wife and co-owner, Kiini Reed also run an upscale catering company, Root of All Food.

Meet Chef Michael Reed, Co-Host of Masters of Taste 2023

Born and raised in Oxnard, California, Chef Michael Reed comes from a family with a passion for food. Thanks to his parents, Michael grew up around the barbeque and the smell of fresh, home-made pies.

His family cooked every day, pulling ingredients straight from the garden which went on to inspire Michael’s passion for food and hospitality. After starting down a collegiate path that was separated from the food industry at University of Santa Barbara, a track injury prompted Michael’s decision to make a change.

Months later, Michael was enrolled in the Culinary Institute of America in New York. While in culinary school, Michael Reed cooked at The Modern, the acclaimed restaurant at the Museum of Modern Art in Manhattan.

After graduating in 2008, Reed returned to Southern California and worked at David Myer’s Michelin-star rated Sona, as well Xiomara per a recommendation from Nancy Silverton at the age of 26. In 2011, Chef Reed and Kwini Reed jointly created high-end catering company, Root of All Food which specializes in high-end boutique catering, in-home cooking and events, and catering to Southern California.

Some of Root to All Food’sprevious clients have included Gwen Stefani, Gavin Rossdale, The W Hotel, and Sugar Ray Leonard. During the summer of 2014, Reed opened DTLA brunch darling, Poppy + Rose, a restaurant that specializes in classic American diner-fare made from scratch with a seasonal menu.

He owns the restaurant alongside his wife, Kwini Reed. In 2021, Poppy & Seed opened, branching more upscale service and cuisine in a modern greenhouse setting. Located in the Anaheim Packing District, Poppy & Seed totes a menu of refined American fare.

Meet Kwini Reed, Co-Host of Masters of Taste 2023

Host Kwini Reed is a Southern California native, wife, mother, and entrepreneur.

She is the co-owner of brunch restaurant, Poppy + Rose in Downtown, Los Angeles, Anaheim dining destination, Poppy & Seed, and upscale catering company, Root of All Foods with husband and chef of these concepts, Michael Reed. Kwini Reed comes from a large family that values community, generosity, and a strong work ethic – traits that have helped her succeed in her career and personal endeavors.

A graduate of California State University, Fullerton with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing, she now has over a decade of experience in business, finance, and human resource management, having worked at companies throughout LA, including The Standard Hotel, Band of Gypsies, and Brandy Melville USA.

In her current day-to-day, she oversees operations of Poppy + Rose, Poppy & Seed, and Root of All Food managing finances, strategizing new concepts for the restaurant, spearheading collaborations, and more.

She and Michael Reed have received numerous accolades for these concepts, including Orange Coast Magazine’s “Best New Restaurant” (Poppy & Seed); and CBS Los Angeles’ “Best All-Day Breakfast Restaurants in LA” (Poppy + Rose) – among others.She pioneers Poppy + Rose and Poppy & Seed’s giving back initiatives as well, coordinating meal donations to organizations across LA, supporting first responders, social justice causes, youth development programs, and more.

She is active with local nonprofits, such as Brown Bag Lady, which provides meals to people experiencing homelessness in LA. In addition, she participated in the James Beard Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership (WEL) program in 2021, which is focused on empowering women food industry entrepreneurs and restaurant owners and is a member of Re:Her a non-profit with a mission to empower and advance all women identifying food and drink entrepreneurs by way of innovative platforms. In October 2022, Kwini Reed participated in the LA Chef Conference as a co-moderator of a panel on the future of restaurants and in 2023, Kwini and Michael Reed will open Poppy + Rose in San Pedro, offering casual brunch and a refined dinner menu.

Masters of Taste 2022 was a sold-out event that attracted over 3,000 guests and garnered media attention all throughout Southern California and beyond.

The sixth annual Masters of Taste 2023 is also expected to bring over 3,000 food and beverage enthusiasts together for one afternoon to celebrate this exhilarating festival, which will include the finest fare from over 100 Culinary Masters and restaurants, delectable sweets prepared by L.A.’s top Sweet Masters, top Beverage Masters who will be featuring signature handcrafted cocktail tastings from over 25 spirit brands and top cocktail bars, a premier 50-Yard-Line Cocktail Bar, select wineries, local craft breweries, cold-pressed juices, cold brew coffee, live entertainment and much, much more.

Some of this year’s Masters of Taste 2023 participating Culinary Masters and Restaurants include:

Poppy + Rose and Poppy & Seed 2023 Hosts Chef Michael Reed & Kwini Reed – Downtown Los Angeles, Anaheim

Angelenos’ Wood Fired Pizza Chef Carmen Samaniego – Los Angeles

Arth Bar + Kitchen Chef Mihir Lad – Culver City

Ayara Thai Chef Vanda Asapahu – Westchester

1212 Santa Monica Chef Luca Maita – Santa Monica

Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery Chef Thomas Kalb – Pasadena

Alexander’s Steakhouse Chef Richard Archuleta – Pasadena

Casa Cordoba Chef Rebelino Villalta – Montrose

Celestino Ristorante Chef Calogero Drago – Pasadena

Champion’s CURRY Chef Yoya Takahashi – Downtown Los Angeles

Chili John’s Chef Stephen Hager – Burbank

City Club Los Angeles Chef Victor Munoz – Downtown Los Angeles

Fat Boys Chef Michael Gray – Pasadena, Los Angeles

Gabi James Sarah Gabriele & Adam Aro – Redondo Beach

Georgia’s Restaurant Nika Shoemaker-Machado – Anaheim, Long Beach

Great Maple Chef Scott Floyd – Pasadena, Anaheim, Newport Beach, San Diego

Gus’s World-Famous Fried Chicken – Burbank, Long Beach, Los Angeles

Hank’s Chef Isaias Peña – Pacific Palisades

Interstellar Chef Angie Kim – Santa Monica

La Bohéme Chef Atsushi Kenjo – West Hollywood

Lunasia Chef Lee Han Fu – Pasadena, Alhambra, Cerritos

Marlou Chef Louis Huh & Chef Marcos Spaziani – Downtown Los Angeles, Koreatown

Mercado Chef Jose Acevedo – Hollywood, Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach, Pasadena, Santa Monica

Per L’Ora Chef Courtney Van Dyke – Downtown Los Angeles

Pez Cantina Chef Bret Thompson – Downtown Los Angeles

Ramen Tatsunoya Chef Ryuta Kajiwara – Pasadena, Silver Lake

Santuari Restaurant Chef Seth Greenburg – Toluca Lake

Smoke City Char Bar Chef George Huynh – Downtown Los Angeles

Soulmate Chef David Joyce – West Hollywood

Taishi Hainan Chicken Chef Theo Shio – Redondo Beach, Long Beach

The Green Room Chef Czarina Sico – Burbank

The Peppered Goat Chef JohnPaul Arabome – Van Nuys, Las Vegas

VCHOS Wendy Centeno – Los Angeles

West Side Bahn Mi/Street Kitchen Chef Jack Ourfalian – Los Angeles

World Empanadas Chef Matthew Hirtz – Burbank

Yardbird Chef Eduardo Osorio – Los Angeles

Yuca’s Restaurant Socorro “Mama Yuca’s” Herrera – Pasadena

Sweet Masters: A select group of Los Angeles Top Sweet Masters will showcase an assortment of delectable desserts such as Bertha Mae’s Brownies, handcrafted pudding from Better Together Sweets, Creamy Boys Ice Cream, plain funnel cake from Drizzle, custom cakes and desserts from Butter Cake Shoppe, French macarons and gourmet cookies from Etoile Filante Patisserie, I Like Pie Bakeshop, Läderach Chocolatier Suisse, deliciously scrumptious scratch baked custom cakes and cupcakes from Lark Cake Shop and Nothing Bundt Cakes, Nomad Ice Pops, Pazzo Gelato, Porto’s Bakery & Café, and more.

Some of this year’s participating Beverage Masters include:

Bars & Spirits: Some of L.A.’s top bartenders and cocktail bars will be creating first-rate craft cocktails and top brands showcasing their finest spirits at Masters of Taste will include Amaro Angeleno, Beam Suntory, Dulce Vida Tequila,Empress 1908 Gin, Knox & Dobson, Krafted Spirits, Maker’s Mark, Maple Block Liquor Bar, Mario’s Hard Espresso,Mezcal 33, Mi Piace, Neft Vodka, Nosotros Tequila & Mezcal, Qué Padre, Raicilla La Reina, Smoke Lab Vodka, Tequila Juegos Mexicanos, The Raymond 1886, Xoloitzcuintle Tequila, and Woodford Reserve.

Brewmasters: Beverage Masters who specialize in barley and hops will be presenting top-notch ales, lagers, pilsners and more for guests to sample, sip and savor all throughout the event, including Southern California favorites 14 Cannons Brewing Co., L.A.’s All Season Brewing, Arrow Lodge Brewing, Arts District Brewing Company, Pasadena’sCerveceria Del Pueblo, Downtown’s Homebound Brew Haus, Juneshine, Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Beer, LFG Seltzer,MacLeod Ale Brewing Co., Arcadia’s first Microbrewery Mt. Lowe Brewing Co., Native Son LA, Over Town Brewing Co.,San Fernando Brewing Co., and Tarantula Hill Brewing Co.

Wineries and Sake: A specially curated collection of Wine and Sake Masters will be showcasing their finest varietals including Akagisan Sake, premium boutique winery Ascension Cellars, Bodegas de Santo Tomas, CRŪ Winery, Golden Star Vineyards, Hitching Post Wines, I Love Wine Collections, Moraga Bel Air Vineyards, Anderson Valley’s Navarro Vineyards, Sake High!, Tercero Wines, Veso Aperitifs, Vincola Casta de Vinos, Warson Wine Company, and more.

Non-Alcoholic Beverages: A variety of premium non-alcoholic Beverage Masters will also be on hand for those who wish to hydrate, caffeinate or regenerate with All Phenoms, Yerba Mate from Erva Brew Co., Humm Kombucha, fresh juices from Summit Juice Co., and boba milk tea from Sunright Tea Studio and Bearology, and more.

100% of the proceeds from Masters of Taste 2023 will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is celebrating its 50^th anniversary of bringing neighbors home. Committed to providing permanent solutions to end homelessness and rebuild lives, Union Station works with unsheltered and very low-income adults and families across the San Gabriel Valley. Recently expanding into El Sereno and Eagle Rock, Union Station Homeless Services is the lead County agency for Service Planning Area 3 (SPA 3), coordinating homeless services in 36 communities spanning from Pasadena to Pomona. Union Station Homeless Services’ mission is guided by the belief that everyone deserves a life of dignity and a place to call home. In the last five years Masters of Taste has raised over$2.7 Million in support of Union Station Homeless Services life-saving programs.

Masters of Taste 2023 is a 100% outdoor event. Additionally, all guests will be receiving their very own utensils and hand sanitizer to use throughout the event.

Mark your calendars and see you at the sixth annual Masters of Taste 2023!

Ticket Information: Masters of Taste 2023 will take place on Sunday, April 2^nd, 2023, and this is a 21+ event. A VIP Power Hour will be held from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm and General Admission will be from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. For more information on Masters of Taste 2023, please visit www.MastersofTasteLA.com.

Transportation and Parking: Guests are encouraged to utilize car services – Lyft, Uber, Taxi, etc. – since this event does serve alcoholic beverages and is a 21+ and over event. Complimentary parking is also available at the Rose Bowl.

Sommelier Jaime Smith reveals the best wines for Springtime, treat yourself and save money.

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This Springtime, Sommelier Jaime Smith reveals the best wines to Treat yourself while saving $$$

By Jaime Smith — 2 years ago

Sommelier Jaime Smith reveals the best wines for Springtime, treat yourself and save money.

With the coming of spring and the equinox, we start a time of renewal in nature, particularly in the northern hemisphere as the vineyards start to bud and come alive with energy. As the weather starts to warm and the plants wake up from a nice winter snooze, it’s time to think about what the last few years harvests have given us (as far as bottled wine).

With this warming, we still have cool if not cold nights, so when thinking about choosing wines for this new season, we have few limits.

We can celebrate in the day with sparklers and fade into the evening with a heartier red to keep you toasty.

These wines were chosen for QPR (quality to price ratio) as this is the single best determinate that defines well made wines. A good way to think about this is that if you have the means to drink a bottle daily, sub $20 is a sweet spot.

If you prefer one better bottle a week for a nice dinner on the weekend, perhaps $35 is a nice option; a very special bottle shouldn’t cost more than $75 (ever) in a store.

Not to give away the game but generally at wholesale if a bottle costs, for terms of simplicity, $10, in a store it would be 35% on top of that; on a shelf to you for ~ $14.

The markup for a restaurant is generally 300-400%, as they have many operating costs inlaid.

If anyone ever tells you they understand how bottles of wine are priced, they are lying.

These 15 wines represent some of the tastiness that is the exciting wine market right now. The wine will include both domestic and international selections and depending on where you live, will dictate the availability of each; the internet is the great leveler of the field!

For ease of choice to match both your moos and temperature needs, we split these up into a few categories. Mix and match!

Sparkling Springtime Wines

Sparkling wines are an everyday pleasure, from Pet-nats to traditional Champagne, the category is wide open, exciting and affordable.

Kobal, Bajta, Blaufrankisch, Natural Sparkling Rosé, Slovenia

Kobal, Bajta, Blaufrankisch, Natural Sparkling Rosé, Slovenia $22

Absolutely one of the most fun and tasty and colorful sparklers out there, the wine nerds and G-Ma would both drink this.

Buy Kobal, Bajta, Blaufrankisch, Natural Sparkling Rosé here

Alfredo Bertolani, Lambrusco, Rose Emilia-Romagna

Alfredo Bertolani, Lambrusco, Rose Emilia-Romagna , Italy $14

Don’t buy this if you want that sweet & heavy sparkling red, this is another level, fully dry and zippy.

Buy Alfredo Bertolani, Lambrusco, Rose Emilia-Romagna here

Le Vigne di Alice, Tajad, Prosecco, Italy

Le Vigne di Alice, Tajad, Prosecco, Italy, $18

Hands down one of the best dry Prosecco’s made.

Buy Le Vigne di Alice here.

1+1=3 , Cava, Brut, Spain

1+1=3 , Cava, Brut, Spain $15

Traditional Cava , off – dry, not fruity and solid QPR.

Buy 1+1+3 Cava here.

FRESNE-DUCRET, LES NOUVEAUX EXPLORATEURS, Champagne, France $41

FRESNE-DUCRET, LES NOUVEAUX EXPLORATEURS, Champagne

A Champagne for this price that destroys all the big names in this category.

Buy Fresne-Ducret here

White wines for Springtime

White wines: light to heavy and joyous to accompany the new season!

2020 SELBACH 'INCLINE' RIESLING QUALITÄTSWEIN, MOSEL

2020 SELBACH ‘INCLINE’ RIESLING QUALITÄTSWEIN, MOSEL, GERMANY $17
Pure Riesling essence, a touch fruity, green apple crunchy!

Buy Selbach ‘Incline’ Riesling here

ARNEIS, COLLINA SAN PONZIO Roero , Piedmont, Italy $14
Clean, fresh, apple and fennel , zippy minerals, perfect.

Buy Arneis Collina San Ponzio here

Collina San Ponzio 2021 Roero Arneis

Dog Point Vineyard, Sauvignon Blanc , New Zealand $20
Find a better savvie , you won’t!

Dog Point Vineyard, Sauvignon Blanc , New Zealand

Buy Dog Point Vineyard’s Sauvignon Blanc here

Scar of the Sea x Dedalus, Central Coast, Chardonnay, California $30
New school, rich and complex, no butter in sight.

Scar of the Sea x Dedalus, Central Coast, Chardonnay

Buy Scar of the Sea x Dedalus here

GRENACHE BLANC, COTES-DU-RHONE, DOM DE LA SOLITUDE, France $16

Deep and rich, a heavier wine with texture for days.

GRENACHE BLANC, COTES-DU-RHONE, DOM DE LA SOLITUDE

Buy Grenache Blanc Dom De La Solitude here

Red Wines for Springtime

Red Wines: lighter to heavier again, dealers choice.

Matilda Nieves, Mencia, Ribeira Sacra, Spain $18
Light , zippy, Smokey , perfect for a warm night.

Matilda Nieves, Mencia, Ribeira Sacra, Spain

Buy Matilda Nieves, Mencia, Ribeira Sacra here

Lieu Dit, Gamay , Santa Maria, California $25
Step outside of Beaujolais and see what the cool kids are drinking from Cali.

Lieu Dit, Gamay , Santa Maria, California

Buy Lieu Dit, Gamay here

CLAUDIO QUARTA VIGNAIOLO, Aglianico, Irpinia, Italy $16
Medium bodied, dense black fruits, Smokey, meaty, lovely.

CLAUDIO QUARTA VIGNAIOLO, Aglianico, Irpinia, Italy

Buy CLAUDIO QUARTA VIGNAIOLO, Aglianico here

BORDEAUX, CH LANDES, LUSSAC-ST-EMILION, France $25
A classic claret!

Buy Bordeaux, Chateau Landes Emilion here

BORDEAUX, CH LANDES, LUSSAC-ST-EMILION

COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES-SAINT GERVAIS, ROUVIERES, MOURVEDRE/SYRAH, France $18

Full bodied, spiced, herbed, a rich bowl of black fruits.

Cotes-du-Rhone-Villages Saint-Gervais “Les Rouvieres

Buy Cotes Dr Rhone Villages-Saint Gervais Rouvieres here

About Sommelier Jaime Smith

Sommelier Jaime Smith

a drone in the Sommelier Brain Collective. Jaime Smith loves wine. He’s currently in DC causing havoc.

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Jim Clendenen Tribute Dinner on Feb 4 Hosted by Hitching Post 2, Benefiting Santa Barbara Charities

By Joe Winger — 2 years ago

Hitching Post 2 Hosts Jim Clendenen Tribute Dinner, Benefiting Santa Barbara Charities.

Winemakers, Chefs, Vineyard Owners and Friends Gather to Honor the Legacy of Santa Barbara County Wines First Ambassador Raising $100,000 for Direct Relief and the Community Health Centers of the Central Coast

On February 4, 2023, Jami and Frank Ostini of the Hitching Post 2 in Buellton, California, hosted the Jim Clendenen Tribute Dinner benefiting Direct Relief and the Community Health Centers of the Central Coast.

One hundred ten guests came from distances as far away as Boston, Atlanta and Hawaii to honor Jim Clendenen, the founder and “Mind Behind” the highly acclaimed Au Bon Climat Winery located near Santa Maria, California.

Jim Clendenen Tribute Dinner Hosted by Hitching Post 2

The event raised $100,000 at the Santa Barbara Wine Auction sponsored by the Santa Barbara Vintners Foundation, with proceeds from the dinner benefiting the two charities.

Jim Clendenen started his winery in 1982, rising in prominence locally and internationally as he aspired to emulate Burgundy’s culture and wine styles by creating unique Santa Barbara wines from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

He became an international ambassador for Santa Barbara Wines while traveling the world and returning to California to mentor the first and second-generation winemakers in Santa Barbara County.

Jim befriended the best chefs and winemakers worldwide and built a wine business that sells across America and the globe – England, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Canada, Japan and Korea.

Jim’s children have taken up the torch.

Daughter Isabelle is traveling to represent Au Bon Climat at the Triangle Wine and Food Experience in North Carolina, and Knox is selling wine in Japan.

Like father, like daughter, like son.

The rest of Jim’s Au Bon Climat team was in the room – long-time winemaker Jim Adelman, first ABC employee cellar master Enrique Rodriguez, assistant winemaker Mark Piro, Michael Meluskey, James Sanders and Randi Chavoya. Surrounded with pictures of Jim’s life, the dinner featured a slideshow of 300 photos.

Endless storytelling filled every table as Jim’s spirit lit up the room.

Stories of Jim’s 40-plus year career and how he touched thousands of lives were shared by local grape growers, winemakers and friends, including Bob and Louisa Lindquist, Doug Margarum, Paul Lato, Brian and Lisa Babcock, Chad Melville, Andrew Murray, Katy Grassini, Matt Murphy, Justin Willett, James Ontiveros, Matt Turrentine, Gary and Jeanne Newman, Chuck and Kathleen Carlson, Chris Brown, Pierre LaBarge, Coby Parker-Garcia, Gary and Teresa Burk, Jessica Gasca, Debra Eagle, Drake Whitcraft, Jessica Stolpman and Gray, Charlotte and Weston Hartley.

Other attendees of note came to pay tribute to Jim: David & Judy Breitstein, David Fink, Bill Shea, Jay Mcinerney, Keith Pitts, Tom Black, Jimmy Davis, Blake Brown, Michael and Kathy Gordon, Bhupi Singh, Gurinder Kaur, Drs. Mark Goodman and Greg Hallert, and Jim and Jody Rea. The traveling contingent was led by Roy Yamaguchi, Chuck Furuya and Warren Shon from Hawaii, Chip Coen from Boston, Scott and Margret Dozier from Atlanta, and many others.

A spectacular five-course feast was prepared and served by the Hitching Post staff of 20 led by George Alvarado, Brad Lettau and Angel Carmona with the help of chef friends.

Clark Staub of Full of Life Flatbread Los Alamos had a strikingly colorful Chicory and Citrus Salad;

Roy Yamaguchi of Roy’s Restaurants of Hawaii served the pinnacle plate of Sea Bass enhanced with fresh-caught uni from Santa Barbara’s renowned fish-monger Stephanie Mutz.

Budi Kazali, formerly of the Ballard Inn, followed with a wonderfully earthy Smoked Duck Breast with Turnips and Tempura Chanterelles.

The Hitching Post served their signature Oak-Grilled New York with Black Truffled Mashed Potatoes and finished the evening with an assortment of cheeses and small bites of sweets.

The menu was paired with ten outstanding wines poured from five-liter bottles of Au Bon Climat vintages that spanned four decades – 2020 to 1986. A team of eleven sommeliers meticulously served the wines under the leadership of fellow winemakers Bob Lindquist, Doug Margarum and Paul Lato.

The evening was a wonderful and memorable tribute to a great friend, Jim Clendenen. And as Jim would have done himself, a generous sum was raised for charity while enjoying fine food and wine

ABOUT HITCHING POST 2 and HITCHING POST WINES:

The Hitching Post 2 Restaurant and Hitching Post Wines offer a quintessential Santa Barbara Wine Country food and wine experience in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley. One can enjoy traditionally made Pinot Noirs in a nearly 100-year-old wine-tasting room along with a casual high-quality BBQ lunch out back, set in a glorious outdoor setting with a mountain backdrop.

In the evening, you can visit the iconic Hitching Post 2 steak house that has been a Santa Ynez Valley institution since 1986 – a restaurant where you can enjoy Central Coast oak wood BBQ’d steaks and seafood matched with Hitching Post and fine local wines from Santa Barbara County.

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Ready for a Romantic Valentine’s Day? Start with wines chosen by Sommelier Jaime Smith

By Jaime Smith — 2 years ago

Ready for a Romance Try a Valentine’s Day wine chosen by Sommelier Jaime Smith.

It’s that time of the year again and Valentine’s Day is right around the corner.

How should should you celebrate this holiday with your partner?

There is always a ton of pushback on these kinds of consumer targeted holidays, a new gripe is thrown in every year but why not just embrace it? The news cycles are dire, the world is changing so quickly, why not just grab ahold of this silly tradition and go with it, have fun, the other 75% of the world is.

Let loose, grab a bottle and relax.

While we are at it, why not visit some of the country’s most dynamic wine spots and the fab people who run them and let them help you choose that bottle of wine this year?

Not only are these wine stores and bars dynamic but their philosophies of inclusion & acceptance should be something we all should be aligning with ourselves.

We all struggle sometimes to find that perfect bottle for ourselves, these pros can guide you to your sweet spot.

Cheerful, friendly and quite bad ass, these stores are female/minority/handi-capable run and offer terrific selections from well-priced bottles of sparkling/still or dessert wine along with some distilled choices and the non-alcoholic too.

Valentine’s Day Wine in New York City

NYC- big city of dreams and a place where everything is possible.

Beaupierre’s Yannick Benjamin

Yannick Benjamin and his wife Heidi Turzyn have recently opened Beaupierre in Hells Kitchen.

The store is a “…barrier-free wine store that supports social sustainability to enrich the quality of life for people living with disabilities as well as members of the BIPOC, LGBTQIA, and other marginalized communities…

…an ‘open-door’ establishment

where everyone, regardless of race, gender, sexuality, or disabilities,

is always welcome.”

Beaupierre’s Heidi Turzyn

Not only are they the most inspirational couple you will ever meet but they will help you pick that special bottle for Valentine’s Day.

If you are ever in Harlem, you should most definitely visit their restaurant Contento (it practices the same philosophies as the store).

2020 Maison Chantereves, Aligote, Les Chagniots, Bourgogne, France

A fave bottle these days: 2020 Maison Chantereves, Aligote, Les Chagniots, Bourgogne, France

Visit Beaupierre in Hells Kitchen

Visit their restaurant Contento

Valentine’s Day Wine in Las Vegas

Las Vegas- the city of lights and luck

Las Vegas is a terrific wine city and 2 places to visit for expert advice are Ada’s Wine bar and Lamaii.

First up Ada’s, run by the utterly fantastic human Ms. Kat Thomas and her infectious positivity. Ada’s has a global selection of well curated and socially conscious selections.

Ada’s Wine Bar, Ms Kat Thomas

A fave bottle of sweets for the sweetie:

2018 Sauternes, Château Gilette ‘Les Justices’, Bordeaux, France

Shop Ada’s here

Lamaii’s Bank Atcharawan

Next up in the neon city is a Thai sommelier/chef named Bank Atcharawan and his growing empire of hot wine centric spots.

Lamaii has some of the best Thai food in the US (he is part of the Lotus of Siam alums, the wine brain behind them) and his wife Pimmie are the consummate hosts, go chat about Burgundy and Germany!

MV Rolland Champion , Champagne

A fave V-day bottle of bubbles:

MV Rolland Champion, Champagne

Shop Lamaii here

Valentine’s Day in Washington DC

Washington DC- The nations capital is a hot bed for natural wines and inclusivity.

Domestique Wine Shop’s Eric Moorer

Two spots to not miss are Domestique Wine Shop and Vitis Wines.

Domestique is hands down the best natural wine shop in the country and Eric Moorer is part of the reason, an encyclopedia of all things natty and a proponent for the culture.

2019 Domaine Dupasquier, Mondeuse, Savoie, France

Fave natty selection:

2019 Domaine Dupasquier, Mondeuse, Savoie, France

Shop Domestique Wine Shop

Vitis Wine Bar is located in Union market and run by one of its owners, Vanessa Phillips, a Kansas transplant and she-boss. The store has female & BIPOC centric choices with a great value all tightly wrapped in a small footprint.

Vitis Wine Bar’s Vanessa Phillips

Fave store pic:

2019 Beaujolais Villages, Jean Foillard

Visit and shop Vitis Wine Bar

Valentine’s Day Wine in Charleston

valentines day wine

Charleston, SC- The gem of a city along the Atlantic coast

Femi Oyediran, Graft Wine Shop

A simply amazing wine store called Graft and run by one of the owners Mr. Femi Oyediran. Femi is a well renowned Sommelier and probably one of the most affable folks in the wine biz. The store is a treasure trove of wines, from nerdy to classic.

valentines day wine

Fave domestic red:

2021 Trousseau, Phelan Farms, Cambria, CA (a Rajat Parr production)

Visit and shop at Graft

About Sommelier Jaime Smith

Sommelier Jaime Smith

a drone in the Sommelier Brain Collective. Jaime Smith loves wine. He’s currently in DC causing havoc.

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McMinnville Wine Competition Celebrates 30 Years, Awards Coppola‘s Domain de Broglie takes Top Honors

By Joe Wehinger — 2 years ago

McMinnville Wine Competition Celebrates 30 Years, Awards Coppola‘s Domain de Broglie takes Top Honors

The McMinnville Wine Classic Competition completed its 30th annual professional judging on Saturday January 7, 2023.

All eight out-of-state judges arrived unfettered and ready to help elevate the competition.

The wine competition has not missed an event including through the peak Covid years, and is a dedicated fundraiser for McMinnville’s St. James School.

Oregon Wine Country: Coppola‘s Domain de Broglie takes Top Honors at 30th annual McMinnville Wine Competition

It raises thousands of dollars for programs benefiting the school’s children. Organized by Rolland Toevs, Carl Giavanti and Jon Johnson and staffed by volunteers, the Mac Classic competition is one of the largest Oregon Only wine competitions in the state.

The competition draws professional judges from across the U.S.

This year’s panel represents the full spectrum of the wine industry, including future MW Samantha Cole Johnson of Janice Robinson.com, Sommeliers like Fred Swan and Ellen Landis, Buyer Jusden Aumand from Tri-Vin Imports, and Wine Writers such as Clive Pursehouse the U.S. Editor for Decanter Magazine, Eric Degerman of Great Northwest Wine, Deborah Parker-Wong the U.S. Editor Slow Wine Guide, James Melendez aka James the Wine Guy, and Michael Apstein of Wine Review Online and Terroir Sense.

Coppola‘s Domain de Broglie takes Top Honors at 30th annual McMinnville Wine Competition

Wines were showing well, with distribution of Double Gold and Gold awards was across the state.

Taking home top honors in 2023 was Domaine de Broglie, whose 2019 Dundee Hills Pinot Noir claimed Best of Show, Best Pinot Noir and Best Red Varietal, a first time ever for any winery in the state.

Cardwell Hill Cellars won Best Chardonnay again this year, a record fourth time, for their 2021 The Bard Chard, as well as Best White Varietal. Pike Road Winery won Best Dessert Wine for their Yamhill-Carlton AVA Route 47 Late Harvest white.

Rounding out the awards was Durant Vineyards who gained the top spot in the Best Sparkling Wine category for their 2019 Brut sparkling wine. All Double Gold and Gold Medals are listed at the bottom of this page:

For more details, visit https://www.mcminnvillewinecompetition.com/

Italian Wines poured for 'Charming Taste of Europe' Holiday Dinner

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Italian Wines Make a Perfectly Paired Holiday Dinner at ‘Charming Taste of Europe’ Event

By Joe Winger — 2 years ago

Italian Wines poured for ‘Charming Taste of Europe’ Holiday Dinner

Italian wines can be the preferred choice for the holidays or equally suited for every day drinking, whether tasted alone or paired with a meal.

Old World history, diverse varietals and styles to match every dish and palette, and are surprisingly affordable – especially compared to wines of similar prestige.

Lincoln Ristorante hosts Italian Wines from Charming Taste of Europe

Tonight’s dinner takes place at Lincoln Ristorante beside NYC Lincoln Center’s reflecting pool and iconic Henry Moore sculpture.

Hosted by Italian Wine Expert Susannah Gold for Vini D’Abruzzo, Kavala Coop, Sweet Bordeaux and the European Union.

The Union of Agricultural Cooperatives of Kavala (Kavala COOP) was founded in 1927. Today it has 500 members that include producers from the provinces of Kavala, Nestos and Thassos.

Lincoln Center’s iconic Henry Moore sculpture

Lincoln Ristorante offers an authentic interpretation of Italian cuisine by sourcing the best local ingredients, relying on local farmers, Tucker Square Greenmarket and importing from Italy. Then preparing the menu with authentic Italian methods.

They honor traditional Italian dishes making their own fresh pastas, grissini, and focaccia.

Lincoln Ristorante offers an authentic interpretation of Italian cuisine

Enjoy! It’s from Europe

We’re tasting Italian wines with our holiday dinner.

With over 36,000 hectares (138 miles) of vineyard space and producing 3.5 million hectoliteres (350 million liters) each year, viticulture is one of Italy’s strongest agriculture industries.

Nearly 80% of grape growing and wine activity takes place in Montepulciano d’Abruzzo.

There’s a truly impressive amount of quality wine coming from the area. 200 private wineries and 40 cooperatives in Abruzzo’s Chieti province.

Italian Wines from Charming Taste of Europe

Nearly 80% of grape growing and wine activity takes place in Montepulciano d’Abruzzo.

Montepulciano d’Abruzzo’s Wine

The region has a variety of wine producers, something for every palette, pairing, and budget.

There are 2 DOCG: Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Colline Teramane Docg and Terre Tolesi or Tullum DOCG.

There are 7 DOCs: Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Doc, Trebbiano d’Abruzzo Doc, Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo Doc, Abruzzo Doc, Villamagna Doc, Controguerra Doc, Ortona Doc

And there aerie 7 IGT: Colline Pescaresi Igt, Colline Teatine Igt, Colline, Frentane Igt, Colli del Sangro Igt, Del Vastese or Histonium Igt, Terre di Chieti Igt, Terre Aquilane or Terre de L’Aquila Igt

The Abruzzo region has a variety of wine producers: 2 DOCG, 7 DOCs, 7 IGT

Chieti is the most popular area with more than 75% of vineyards

The production areas are mostly in the hills and the coast.

The Chieti province is the most popular area with more than 75% of vineyards and 83% of production.

With quite a bit less, Pescara and Teramo, each account for about 10% of the vineyards, and 10% and 6%,respectively of production

L’Aquila is most modest area, with less than 4% of vineyards, and 1% of production.

The Scope of Italian Wines from Charming Taste of Europe

Italian Wines Pour 'Charming Taste of Europe' at NYC's Lincoln Center Holiday Dinner

The Chieti province is the most popular (75%), but other areas include Pescara and Teramo (10%) and L’Aquila (less then 5%)

Nic Tartaglia with Italian Wines from ‘Charming Taste of Europe’

Nic Tartaglia is a leader in the area with Tartaglia Farm in the little village Alanno, which is part of Pescara, 1010 feet above the sea level, within a 30 miniature drive of the Adriatic sea and the Appenini mountain range.

Winters are cold with plenty of snow, and summers are cool and sunny. Their aggressive climate, with clay grounds and limestone grounds encourage grapes that bring rich aromas, color and high sugar.

Nic Tartaglia from Tartaglia Farm

Perfect for Italy’s popular wine: Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Trebbiano d’Abruzzo and Pecorino, and even more: Chardonnay and Cabernet.

Lincoln Ristorante Charming Taste of Europe Holiday dinner menu

Dinner begins – Italian Wines from ‘Charming Taste of Europe’

Long Island Fluke Crudo

First Course

Choice of…

Long Island Fluke Crudo

Pomelo, herbs, Pistacchio, Espelette, Meyer lemon, fried shallots

Misticanza Salad

Red Endive, White endive, Piedmontese dressing, toasted walnuts, crispy guanciale, gorgonzola dressing

Wine: Nic Tartaglia Trebbiano d’Abruzzo DOC 2021

On the nose, notes of pear and plum. Full body, good acidity and lingering finish. Would pair with grilled vegetables.

Risotto: Arugula pesto, Prosciutto di Parma, Filone Garlic Crostino, Maldon salt

Primi

Risotto

Arugula pesto, Prosciutto di Parma, Filone Garlic Crostino, Maldon salt

Fontefico La Canaglia Pecorino d’Abruzzo Superiore DOC 2021

Wine: Fontefico La Canaglia Pecorino d’Abruzzo Superiore DOC 2021

This golden-hued beauty has a full body and refreshing minerality. Balsamic and herbal notes lead to floral hints, with grapefruit on the finish. Would pair well with a light dish and gravy or meat sauce.

Dry Age strip loin

Main Course

Dry Age strip loin

Smoked Bone Marrow, Vinaigrette, Salk baked fingerling potatoes

Velenosi Prope Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo DOC 2021

Wine: Velenosi Prope Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo DOC 2021

This is a beautiful surprise. At first when you’re served a rose with your cut of streak, it can seem like a mistake. Most rose’s couldn’t stand up to the challenge.

But this story is different; and this wine is special.

Notice it’s intense bright pink color. The most confident welcome with the results to match. Beautiful notes of floral aroma, roses, red fruit. Rounded mouthfeel with raspberry and high acidity to cut through the steak and linger long after. Would pair well with sourdough, rib eye, gamey meat.

If you’re looking for a bold rose’ this is a great selection.

On left: Masciarelli Villa Gemma Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC Riserva 2017

Wine: Masciarelli Villa Gemma Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC Riserva 2017

This is the powerful wine you’d expect paired with steak. Deep Ruby color, with black cherry and spices on those nose. Plush, velvet with smokey oak. Very tannic, almost chewy. A young wine with lots of room to evolve over the years

Pinola Al Cioccolato: Chocolate Genovese, Semi-sweet Ganache, Milk chocolate crema, Pine nut gelato

Choice of Dessert

Pinola Al Cioccolato

Chocolate Genovese, Semi-sweet Ganache, Milk chocolate crema, Pine nut gelato

Cheese Course: Aged parmesan, Candied pecans, Honey, Fig spread

Cheese Course

Aged parmesan, Candied pecans, Honey, Fig spread

Wine: Chateau de Garbes “Cuvee Fut de chene” AOC Cadillac 2019

Shimmering golden color. The nose has fruit with slightly woody aroma. Refreshing honeyed notes of candied fruit.

Wine: Chateau Loupiac-Gaudiel 2017

Pale yellow in the glass. Apricot and peach on the nose. Very well-balanced with nuances of saffron, chive and ginger. The ginger brings a slight bitter ending that makes for a brisk palette cleanser.

Italian Wines from Charming Taste of Europe

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Oltrepo Pavese Wines shine with authentic Italian Pizza pairing at NYC’s Sottocasa Pizzeria

By Joe Wehinger — 2 years ago

Oltrepo Pavese shines with authentic Italian wine pairing at Harlem’s Sottocasa Pizzeria.

Tonight some of NYC’s top wine and lifestyle writers joined the Oltrepò Pavese to talk and taste through the wines and culture of Oltrepo Pavese, the north-west Italian region of Lombardy, Italy.

A visit to Italy’s Oltrepo Pavese

Oltrepò Pavese is a wine region in the north-western Italian region of Lombardy.

The main grape varieties grown in this area are Barbera, Dolcetto, and Chardonnay. Also, they produce Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling Italico, Riesling, and Pinot Nero.

Italian Wine Personality Susannah Gold hosted tonight’s dinner along with the Oltrepo Pavese tourism team.

Taste Harlem’s Authentic Italian at Sottocasa

From their Sottocasa website:

“Located in the heart and soul of New York City—Sottocasa Harlem is owned and operated by husband and wife duo, Elena and Matteo.

With a passion and love for pizza stemming back to their native Italy, Harlem now has it’s own Napoli serving up authentic Neapolitan pizza and amore!”

Harlem’s Sottocasa Italian pizzas were a great choice as pair well with wine.

Their menu includes antipasti, pizze rosse, pizze bianche, and an impressive beer and wine selection.

We tasted through several pizza and wine pairings:

Defilippi, Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigoi DOC, Crocetta 2021

Defilippi, Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigoi DOC, Crocetta 2021

In the glass, light yellow with golden reflections.

On the nose, light floral and citrus

A heavy mouth of minerality. Refreshing, full bodied with a lingering finish.

Would pair well with seafood, salad, deli meats

Vitivinicola Vanzini Sas, Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigio DOC 2021

Vitivinicola Vanzini Sas, Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigio DOC 2021

In the glass, vibrant straw yellow

On the nose, Intense apple and pear

On mouth, well-structured, the citrus continues with vibrant pear so slowly fades

Would pair well with garden salad or white fish sharp cheese

CA Di Frara, Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigio DOC 2021

CA Di Frara, Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigio DOC 2021

In the glass, Pale, almost translucent yellow.

On the nose, a big, beautiful waft of floral.

On mouth, medium boldly, cream, chalk and minerality.

Would pair well pasta and white pizza

CA Montebello, Oltrepo Pavese DOC Pinot Nero Vinificato in Bianco 2021

CA Montebello, Oltrepo Pavese DOC Pinot Nero Vinificato in Bianco 2021

In the glass, straw yellow

On the nose, fruit and floral that builds to fresh baked bread.

On mouth, delicate with a elegant body, light minerality and floral

Would pair well light garden salad and white fish

Giovannella Fugazza, Bonarda Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC Somossa 2021

Giovannella Fugazza, Bonarda Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC Somossa 2021

In the glass, Ruby red with darker edge.

On the nose, a heavenly cloud of complex black and red berry.

On mouth, a gush of red fruit, raspberry and blackberry. Rich texture, medium body.

Would pair well with sausage, pepperoni

Losito & Guarini, Bonarda Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC, C’era Una Volta

Losito & Guarini, Bonarda Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC, C’era Una Volta

In the glass, ruby red

On the nose, red fruit the opens up spicy with black pepper

On mouth, a rounder mouth feel, with red fruit and softer tannins

Would pair well spicy meats

Dino Torti, Oltrepo Pavese DOC Barbera, Route 66, 2019

Dino Torti, Oltrepo Pavese DOC Barbera, Route 66, 2019

In the glass, brilliant ruby red

On the nose, red fruit and minerality

On mouth, big and beautiful, full body with plenty of spicy

Would pair well roasted red meat, red sauces, perfect for a meat lovers pizza

Tenuta Travaglio, Pinot Nero Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC, Pernero 2021

Tenuta Travaglio, Pinot Nero Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC, Pernero 2021

In the glass, brick red.

On the nose, wild strawberry and red berries

On mouth, notes of mushroom, medium mouthfeel, silky tannins.

Would pair well risottos and light red sauce or meat dishes like pizza.

Vitivinicola Vanzini SAS, Sangue di Guida Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC 2021

Vitivinicola Vanzini SAS, Sangue di Guida Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC 2021

In the glass, deep ruby red.

On the nose, intense ,fresh red fruit and cherry.

On mouth, sweet and velvety, with a lingering finish

Find the wines at Total Wine and visit Harlem’s Sottacasa for a great dinner.

Thank you to Susannah Gold, and Harlem’s Sottacasa for a great Italian meal

Steve Lutz of Oregon Wine's Lenne' Estate sells his iconic vineyard

Post Views: 449

Oregon Pinot Noir News: Steve Lutz of Lenne’ Estate Sells Iconic Vineyard

By Joe Wehinger — 2 years ago

Steve Lutz of Oregon Wine’s Lenne’ Estate sells his iconic vineyard as he eyes: what’s next in wine career.

Steve Lutz, vigneron and founder sells his iconic estate after 22 years
Peavine soils certified worst in Yamhill County, proved to yield distinctive Pinot Noirs
Lutz is said to be setting up next phase of his idiosyncratic wine career
Purchasers Jory, LLC will release next stage brand name and concept for the estate

Lutz’s wine career spans 4 decades and includes hospitality management for part of the Mondavi Wines Group in Napa Valley among other Napa brands and heading up hospitality at Chateau Benoit (now Anne Amie) in Carlton, Oregon culminating in the discovery of his unique 20.9 acre estate vineyard.

Lenné is French influenced wordplay of Lenny, Steve’s father-in-law

The brand name Lenné’ was derived as a French influenced wordplay of Lenny, Steve’s father-in-law who reportedly was a chicken farmer in a suburb of London.

Having achieved cult wine status for over 20 years

Lenné’ produces only estate wines, with annual production ranging from 1,600 – 2,000 cases, most of which is allocated to local wine club and out of state wine enthusiasts. Having achieved what is essentially cult status over 20 years as a craft producer

Lutz quips:

“…Most people think that wine is a lifestyle business,

it most assuredly isn’t, although, of course,

we do enjoy some perks!”

When queried about what’s next, Steve offers “Lenné’s unique programs and experiences will exist in new formats for years to come, although you’ll have to get on our mailing and membership lists to take advantage of what’s coming up next.”

you’ll have to get on […] mailing and membership lists to take advantage of what’s coming up next

The Lenne’ tasting room closes at the end of 2022.

Steve Lutz of Oregon Wine’s Lenne’ Estate sells his iconic vineyard

Jory, LLC had been searching for a bespoke Pinot producing site and were delighted when approached by Steve.

Jory intend to further develop the existing property with a new brand name, marketing concepts, and larger facilities. Co-owner Eugene Labunsky has admitted to being thrilled to finally acquire a property he has had his eye on for years.

Lenné’ Estate

Lenne’ Estate grows death-defying Pinot Noir vineyards on steep slopes in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA. Steve Lutz planted his first vines in 2001, expanding the vineyard property to 20.9 acres. The estate is planted with five clones of Pinot Noir (Pommard, 777, 115, 114, and 667), and most recently Chardonnay.

Jory, LLC

Jory, LLC is a partnership between grower and wine enthusiast Eugene Labunsky and Jared Etzel, winemaker and co-founder of Domaine Roy, and son of Mike Etzel of Beaux Frere fame. The partnership was formed with the intent to grow a portfolio of fine wine brands produced from singular estates of Willamette Valley Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Additional information will be released in the upcoming months.

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Lincoln Ristorante hosts Italian Wines from Charming Taste of Europe

Enjoy! It’s from Europe

Montepulciano d’Abruzzo’s Wine

Chieti is the most popular area with more than 75% of vineyards

The Scope of Italian Wines from Charming Taste of Europe

Nic Tartaglia with Italian Wines from ‘Charming Taste of Europe’

Dinner begins – Italian Wines from ‘Charming Taste of Europe’

Long Island Fluke Crudo

Misticanza Salad

Risotto

Dry Age strip loin

Pinola Al Cioccolato

Italian Wines from Charming Taste of Europe

A visit to Italy’s Oltrepo Pavese

Taste Harlem’s Authentic Italian at Sottocasa

Lenné is French influenced wordplay of Lenny, Steve’s father-in-law

Having achieved cult wine status for over 20 years

you’ll have to get on […] mailing and membership lists to take advantage of what’s coming up next

Lenné’ Estate

Jory, LLC

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