Thursday, June 30, 2011

Ohio Wine Month Gift: Discount Tickets to Vintage Ohio

The Vintage Ohio Wine Festival, scheduled August 5 and 6 at the Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, is the premier wine event in Ohio. The event showcases Ohio wineries and is packed with entertainment, gourmet food, crafts, exhibits and – did we mention wine?
Twenty-four Ohio wineries are scheduled to take part in the event which runs from 1:00 to 10:00 PM each day. The event is in a great outdoor setting off of I-90 east of Cleveland.

To help us celebrate Ohio Wine Month, Toledo Wines and Vines and the Ohio Wine Producers Association are offering you a very special discount on tickets. By ordering your tickets by using a special promotional code, you can purchase your tickets for $19 instead of the regular advance ticket price of $25 or the $27 price at the gate.

To take advantage of this deal, order your tickets here. In the information box, type in this special discount code: TWV2011.

This is fun in the sun at its best. Unwind and uncork at Vintage Ohio 2011.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Wine Tastings & Events: June 29 – July 2, 2011



Wednesday, June 29
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Debonne Vineyards:
Join us as we sample these wonderful wines from the Grand River Valley, along with a representative of the winery. 1. Pinot Gris, 2. Chambourcin, 3. Cabernet Franc, 4. Riesling Reserve Lot 807.
Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Red Blend Wines. $15.
Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. Australian Tasting, cheese & fruit provided. $15.

Thursday, June 30
The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Summer Wines: 1. White Knight – Lot 209 Chardonnay – Napa, California, 2. Burgans – Albarino – Rias Baixas, Spain, 3. Simi – Pinot Noir – Sonoma County, California, 4. Cuvee des 3 Messes Basses – Red Blend – Ventoux, France. $4.50 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Wines you have never had, but should know. 1. El Coto Rose, 2. Quinta das Maias Branco, 3. Crios Torrontes, 4. Venta Morales Tempranillo, 5. Dandelion Shiraz, 6. Sotorrondero, 7. Matloch Ames Bell Mountain Ranch Red, 8. Soil to Soul Riesling. Nominal fee per sample.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Super Funtime Blind Wine Tasting Extravaganza. These are my favorite tastings! They are so fun, action-packed, and extremely educational! Let's see what you're made of! Six wines, six guesses, and a heckuva of a good time.
Nominal fee per sample.
TREO Wine Bar, 5703 Main St., Sylvania, (419) 882-2266. Wine & Cheese Thursday. Explore the wonderful world of wine and cheese. Try four different wines with a sample platter of the day’s cheese.
Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 7:00 – 10:00 PM. Entertainment: Luke Shaffer.

Friday, July 1
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. 4th of July Party Wines: 1. See Saw White Blend, 2. Rhiannon Red Blend, 3. Woop Woop Shiraz, 4. Aromas de Turis Sangria. $10 tasting.
Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Super Funtime Blind Wine Tasting Extravaganza. These are my favorite tastings! They are so fun, action-packed, and extremely educational! Let's see what you're made of! Six wines, six guesses, and a heckuva of a good time.
Nominal fee per sample.
Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 8:00 – 11:00 PM. Entertainment: The Jazz Trio.
Saturday, July 2 
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. 4th of July Party Wines: 1. See Saw White Blend, 2. Rhiannon Red Blend, 3. Woop Woop Shiraz, 4. Aromas de Turis Sangria. $10 tasting.

The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. Saturday wine tasting: The Best Way to Learn About Wine is to Taste It. We kick off the 4th of July weekend with some tasty American wines, perfect for sipping or as a terrific accompaniment to grilled foods. We finish with a lightly sweet wine from Ohio’s own Breitenbach winery. 1. Menage Rose, 2. Joel Gott Chardonnay, 3. Michael Pozzan Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 4. Breitenbach Blueberry Wine. $3.00 per flight or nominal fee per sample.
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12 Noon – 5:00 PM. Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Pay by the sample or flight.

Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample or by the flight.
Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. Tour de France wine flight ~ 5 wines, includes an appetizer for 1 & a dessert for 1 cost is $15.

AREA WINE BARS
  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • Vino 100 Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 866-8466, Promenade West, 3355 Briarfield Blvd, Suite C, Maumee.
  • Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.
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Tuesday, June 28, 2011

TREO Restaurant Schedules “Wine Event of the Year” July 13 with Venge Vineyards Winemaker

Nils Venge, a legendary winemaker from Napa Valley, will be the guest of honor at a special wine event at TREO, 5703 Main St., Sylvania, (419) 882-2266. The event is scheduled Wednesday, July 13, beginning at 6:00 PM.

Venge is the only American winery ever to receive a perfect 100 score from Robert Parker for his 1985 Reserve Cabernet.
The gala evening starts at 6PM with cocktails and appetizers, followed immediately by a four-course dinner paired with four of Venge's outstanding wines.  See below for details about the entrées.

For wine enthusiasts, this is a perfect opportunity to spend an evening with one of California's most distinguished winemakers, Tickets are $160 per person. The event is black-tie optional. To RSVP, please contact info@treosylvania.com or call 419-882-2266.

Venge Wine Dinner Menu
Poached Salmon: Chilled North Atlantic Salmon poached in White Wine and Herbs; served over bitter greens with Salmon Roe, Onions, Capers and Hard-Boiled Eggs
Beef Carpaccio: Prime Cut Beef Tenderloin sliced thin, accompanied by fresh Arugula, drizzled with White Balsamic Vinaigrette and served with Capers and Shredded Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Curried Seafood: Lobster, Sea Scallops, Fresh Halibut and Jumbo Shrimp simmered with traditional Indian spices, Roma tomatoes and a hint of Coconut Milk; served with Basmati Rice
Roasted Veal Medallions: Herb Rubbed Veal Medallions Roasted with Garlic & Vegetables, accompanied by a reduction of Balsamic Vinegars; served with Pommes d'Auphinois and Grilled Asparagus

 
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Saturday, June 25, 2011

Walt Churchill’s Market Maumee To Offer Bastille Day Event

Bastille Day
Image by Infrogmation via Flickr
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000, has scheduled its 6th Annual Bastille Day Dinner on Thursday, July 14 from 6:00 to 8:30 PM. The meal will feature five courses with matching wines.

The cost is $65 per person and it is limited to 25 people.
The menu is planned as follows, although they reserve the right to substitute something even better.

1. Potage St Germaine with Kuentz-Bas 2009 Alsace Blanc.
2. Ragout Escargot a la Guillame with La Vielle Ferme 2010 Rosé
3. Salmis of Game Hen with Georges Duboeuf 2009 Morgon ‘Jean Descombes’
4. Venison Filet with Aioli with Chateau Bouscasse 2007 Madiran
5. Custard Tart with (dessert wine – to be announced)
For tickets call Austin Beeman at (419)794-4000 or email austin.beeman@waltchurchillsmarket.com .
Who knew storming a French prison could be so much fun?
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Friday, June 24, 2011

Poema Cava Brut

Cava is Spain's sparkling wine, produced mainly in the Penedès region in northeastern Spain. It is made with a traditional blend of grapes: 40% Macabeo, 40% Xarel-lo, 20% Parellada. Needless to say, these are not grapes you are bound to run into on the shelves of the local Piggly Wiggly. The wine is made in the traditional method, the same as Champagne.

The Poema Cava Brut is aged for 18 months in cellars. It has an alcohol content of 11.5%, which makes it a nice pairing for a light brunch or meal. The wine has small delicate blasts of bubbles -- quite sufficient to tickle your palate.

We enjoyed this bottle with friends on a summer evening. Cava has many different styles depending on the aging and degree of sweetness. Poema offers Brut and Extra Dry. On their sweetness scale, the Brut is a notch drier than the Extra Dry.

No matter. The level of dryness was just right for us. Our one friend, who is not a sparkling wine fan, found it rather enjoyable -- pairing especially well with fresh fruit. This Cava has a rich, creamy body accented with toast and mild pear.

This is a great summertime sipper, just right for a party by the pool. It is right priced at about $12.

Full disclosure: We received this wine as a free sample.
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Thursday, June 23, 2011

2008 South River Vineyard Trinity, Grand River Valley

June is Ohio Wine Month and it is fitting during this festive occasion to highlight a wine from one of our favorite Ohio wineries: South River Vineyard. SRV is the “winery in a church” and is located in Geneva, the heart of Ohio Wine Country.

SRV may not be on your radar because they typically don’t participate in wine trail events. The tasting room and grounds are very striking. (Check out our previous winery report here.)

Trinity is a blend of 33% Merlot, 34% Chambourcin, and 33% Pinot Noir. As you might suspect, this is a smooth sipping blend. We uncorked this bottle with Wine Chick and Jazz Man while enjoying some tasty nibbles on their patio.

The nose offers a bit of green pepper along with fruit. On the palate, there is a mellow rumbling of red berries with cherry being very pronounced. For me, there was a bit of firmness on the finish, which I liked because it gave the body a dash more interest and makes the wine suited to pairing with a wider range of food.

SRV is one of the largest vinifera growers in the area with 45 acres of vineyards. Varieties include Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Pinot Noir, as well as Merlot and Semillon, the only farmers in this area to grow them. They, like many of the wineries in the Geneva area, benefit from the moderating effects of Lake Erie which provide a longer growing season and warmer winters.

Trinity is a great wine with estate-grown Ohio grapes. This is one of our favs. During this month we encourage you to find a favorite Ohio wine of your own.
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Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Wine Tastings & Events: June 22-25, 2011


Wednesday, June 22
Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. California Wines. $15.

Thursday, June 23
The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Spring / Summer Wines: 1. Cameron Hughes – Lot 209 Chardonnay – Carneros, California, 2. Opolo Vineyards – Cabernet Franc – Paso Robles, California, 3. Opolo Vineyards – Maestro, Red blend – Paso Robles, California, 4. BEX – Riesling – Mosel river, Germany. $4.50 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Wine and Seafood Night. Come and Taste fresh cooked seafood from our Andersons Fish House and quintessential wines to accompany them. 1. Grooner Gruner Veltliner, Austria, 2. Domaine du Manoir Muscadet, Loire Valley, France, 3. Alkoomi dry Riesling, Franklin River, Australia, 4. Nautilus Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand, 5. Handley Chardonnay, Anderson Valley, California, 6. Billaud-Simon Chablis, Chablis, France, 6. King Estate Pinot Gris
Willamette Valley, Oregon, 7. Calera Pinot Noir, Central Coast, California, 8. Lingenfelder “Fish” Riesling. Nominal fee per sample.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. No Spain, No Gain II
Spanish wine represents some of the greatest value in the entire world. Join us as we pop open bottles from all over the country. Also, join us for an in-depth discussion on Spain, it's viticultural history, and what the country has in store for the future with our Berman Distribution representative, Tricia Gentry Rasar. Nominal fee per sample.
TREO Wine Bar, 5703 Main St., Sylvania, (419) 882-2266. Wine & Cheese Thursday. Explore the wonderful world of wine and cheese. Try four different wines with a sample platter of the day’s cheese.

Friday, June 24

* Special Event * Toledo Museum of Art Wine by the Glass Pavilion series: South American Vinhos. 7:00 to 9:30 PM in the Glass Pavilion. Enjoy four wines, light snacks, and a view of glassmakers working in the Hot Shop. Prices are $15 for members and $20 for nonmembers.

Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Super Tuscan Wines: 1. Terre di Tuffi, 2. Monte Antico, 3. Villa Antinori Toscana, 4. Sonnino Lo Schiavone. $15 tasting.
Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. No Spain, No Gain II
Spanish wine represents some of the greatest value in the entire world. Join us as we pop open bottles from all over the country. Nominal fee per sample.
Saturday, June 25 
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Super Tuscan Wines: 1. Terre di Tuffi, 2. Monte Antico, 3. Villa Antinori Toscana, 4. Sonnino Lo Schiavone. $15 tasting.

The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. Saturday wine tasting: The Best Way to Learn About Wine is to Taste It.1. Opolo 2005 Cabernet Franc, 2. Opolo 2005 Petite Verdot, 3. Opolo 2009 Zinfandel, 4. Fritz Windisch Dornfelder 2010. $3.25 per flight or nominal fee per sample.
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12 Noon – 5:00 PM. Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. The ‘Big Boy’ of Californian wines is the theme this week. We are going to open some of the big names and some that deserve to be more well known. Premium tasting.

Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample or by the flight.

AREA WINE BARS
  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • Vino 100 Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 866-8466, Promenade West, 3355 Briarfield Blvd, Suite C, Maumee.
  • Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.
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Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Ca’ Momi 2008 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Napa winery Ca’ Momi aims to craft “impressive Napa Valley wines at reasonable prices, so that you can enjoy a great glass of wine every
night.” The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon is barrel-aged for 18 months and copped a double gold at the San Francisco International Wine Competition.

Our guest reviewer Larry, a noted lover of California reds, filed the following review:

When first poured in the glass it had a dark ruby color. The aroma had the essence of cherry, cinnamon, raspberry, blackberry, and oak. The first taste seemed a little bitter with an earthy oak taste and we were not initially impressed with the wine. By “we” I mean my wife, son, mother-in-law and myself.

Then we had dinner. This is a dinner wine. It has the Old World flavor that goes well with food. As we progressed through the meal the vote in favor of this Cab increased. We found it went very well with beef, tomatoes and dark chocolate. The chocolate really brought out the cherry in the wine. The oak flavor was toned down by the food. By the end of the meal, this Cab was voted a fine dinner wine and highly recommended by my team of reviewers.

We love stories with a happy ending! The Ca’ Momi Cab has 13.9% alcohol and retails for $19.99.

Full disclosure: This wine was received as a free sample.

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Monday, June 20, 2011

Hudson Valley Winery Visit: Millbrook Vineyards & Winery


A trip to Rhinebeck, New York, to drop our daughter off for an internship program provided the perfect opportunity to visit our very first Hudson Valley winery.

Our business in Rhinebeck took several hours longer than anticipated and we were unsure we could still make the visit. We had hoped to check out two wineries, but with evening rapidly approaching, we turned to Jan (our GPS with the sporty English accent) to pilot our car to Millbrook Vineyards & Winery.

Grapes have been grown in the Hudson Valley for hundreds of years and some of the oldest vineyards can be found here. The French Huguenots planted the first vines in New Paltz in 1677 – more than 100 years before any were planted in California. The region now has more than 20 wineries.

Millbrook is considered one of the top wineries in the Hudson Valley and New York state. It’s easy to see why.

The winery is owned by John Dyson, the former state commissioner of agriculture who was responsible for jump-starting the region’s wine industry in the 1970s. Dyson began converting an old dairy farm into Millbrook Winery in 1979 and their first commercial vintage was in 1985. Dyson and wife Kathe have gone on to establish a thriving business that includes not only Millbrook but a small winery in Tuscany and California cult Pinot Noir producer William Selyem.

The renovated Dutch-hip barn that houses the winery sits atop a scenic hill covered with vines with scenic views of the Catskill Mountains. The winery produces 12,000 to 14,000 cases per year with estate-grown grapes, as well as grapes from other New York vineyards and some from Dyson owned vineyards in California.
The tasting room and gift show is clean and stylish and the loft area of the barn features an eclectic space sprinkled with artwork that makes a sensational setting for special events.

Our first tasting was the Millbrook Vin Gris 2009. This is made with Pinot Grigio grapes from California’s Central Coast. As with other Pinot Gris-style wines, it is a heartier style with an oaked finish and an interesting copper color. Italian Pinot Grigio, made with the same grapes, is much lighter and fruitier. Although interesting, this was our least favorite of the tasting.

Next up was something completely different, the 2010 Tocai Fruiliano. This is an Italian grape only grown in New York by Millbrook. Five acres of the 30 acres under vine at Millbrook are dedicated to this unique varietal.

It is the most widely planted and most often drunk wine throughout the areas of the Friulia region in Northeast Italy. The grape and the wine it makes have no connection to the better known Hugarian Tokaji or to France's Tokay d'Alsace. It is believed to be the grape known as Sauvignon Vert.

This is a light fruity wine designed to be enjoyed young and is a good match for seafood or shellfish.
On the red side, we enjoyed the Hunt Country Red, a blend of 58% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Franc, 8% Zinfandel and 8% Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine is perfect for a barbecue with deep blackberry and dark cherry flavors with a touch of spice. We picked up a bottle of this to enjoy with my brother that evening.

Our favorite for the tasting was the 2008 Cabernet Franc with 82% Cabernet Franc, 13% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2007 Proprietor’s Reserve is 100% Cab Franc and when we were leaving I was about to pick up a bottle of the Reserve when I noticed a magnum of 2007 Cab Franc for only $39. Although it isn’t 100% Cab Franc, it does have the extra year in the bottle and upon our server’s recommendation, the big bottle found a new home.

The Cab Frank has rich berry flavors swirling with plum and spice building to a rich, ripe finish.

Millbrook is a destination winery that also produces wines of distinction.
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Saturday, June 18, 2011

History of Lake Erie Wineries Told in New Book



Just in time help you celebrate Ohio Wine Month is a new book from area author Claudia J. Taller titled Ohio’s Lake Erie Wineries. The book includes more than 200 vintage images, giving readers a unique opportunity to reconnect to the history that shaped their community.
The book will be released on Monday, June 20.

Ohio’s Lake Erie wineries and vineyards are rooted in tradition. European immigrants settled on the Lake Erie islands and nearby shoreline in the mid-1800s, and the grape industry flourished in Ohio into the early 20th century. Industrialization from Cleveland to Toledo swallowed up prime growing property along the lakeshore but many farms continued to grow grapes.

During Prohibition, wine making went underground. When it ended, restaurant owners bottled their own fortified wines and some of the wineries started mass producing wine with new equipment. The wines of Ohio, like those all over the eastern United States, were mostly sweet and made from native labrusca grapes.

In the 1960s, Ohio’s serious winemakers learned how to cultivate European-style vinifera grapes along Lake Erie’s shore and on the islands. Chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon grapes now grow alongside Concord and Catawba. Today, more than 40 wineries stretch across northern Ohio.

Claudia J. Taller is a Cleveland-area freelance writer who has been enjoying wine country adventures in Ohio over the last 10 years. She writes travel, history and lifestyle articles for local and national publications. A lifelong writer, she is a graduate of Kent State University’s English department and leads writing groups and retreats.

She lives within five miles of Lake Erie. When she discovered the long history of Ohio’s Lake Erie wineries and the high number of existing wineries along Lake Erie’s shore, she became interested in knowing more. In her visits to wineries she discovered the art of growing grapes, the craft of making wine, and the passion with which the growers and winemakers produce a product that competes with wines in California.

Taller spent hours in historical societies and wineries to compile this book about Ohio’s Lake Erie wineries. She was inspired by the passionate work of growing grapes and making wine and was intrigued to know Ohio was once the premier wine-producing state. The book is a celebration of the comeback of the Lake Erie wine industry and those who toil to make that happen.

The trend is toward more wineries in Ohio. It is Taller’s hope that Ohio’s Lake Erie Wineries will enlighten people about Ohio’s rich history as a winemaking state, and that people will embrace local Lake Erie wineries, winemakers, and wines.

Available at area bookstores, independent retailers, and online retailers, or through Arcadia Publishing at www.arcadiapublishing.com. The 128-page book is part of the Images of America series and retails for $21.99.

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Friday, June 17, 2011

Beringer Knights Valley Meritage 2008

This wine was enjoyed during a visit to Candela, an upscale Mexican restaurant on Coronado Island, a short ferry ride from San Diego. While a jazz trio was laying down some nice grooves and the sun was setting on the San Diego skyline, we were opening this tasty Meritage.

There was a bit of confusion on the wine list as this wine was called Alluvium in previous vintages. No matter what the name, this is a rewarding wine.

This a Bordeaux-style blend of 52% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon with lesser quantities of Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and a dash of Malbec. The balance is just right. There are enough tannins to support the soft Merlot and the Cab gives it enough heart to pair well with beef dishes. There is a warm berry aroma and the flavors are cooked cherries and plum with accents of mocha.

The finish is supple and lingers on the tongue. For our second bottle, we ordered a reserve Malbec – but those in our group sipped somewhat reluctantly, wishing we had gotten a second bottle of the Meritage. The Knights Valley ruled the table with its majestic flavor and soaring taste.

I was very surprised to see that gem retails for only about $22. This is 90+ quality for only pocket change.

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Thursday, June 16, 2011

Looking For A Great Ohio Wine? Try These Winners

June is Ohio Wine Month and there is plenty to choose from. The best place to enjoy Ohio wines is at one of our state’s 148 wineries. You’ll be able to enjoy a variety of wines from special reserve wines to fun patio wines. We’re partial to Ohio’s great Riesling and Cabernet Franc. Plus many of the wineries offer special events, entertainment and food. Visit our winery reports page to get an inside look at some of them.

Two other great resources are the Ohio Wine Producers Association website and the Taste Ohio Wine website sponsored by the Ohio Grape Industries Commission. Of course, don’t forget to look for Ohio wines at your local wine shop, grocery store and restaurants.

To get you acquainted with some of the top wines in the state, below we have some of the results of the 2011 Ohio Wine Competition, which was held in Wooster, Ohio, last month.

There were 268 wines judged and below you will find the best of show as well as the consensus gold winners. The CG winners were judged to be gold medal quality unanimously by the nationally renowned panel of judges.

Raise your glass!

BEST OF SHOW
- Overall Best of Show: Burnet Ridge, Pinot Gris, 2010, Lake Erie
- Best of Show White Wine: Ferrante Winery, Riesling, 2010, American
- Best of Show Red Wine: Grand River Cellars, Cabernet Franc, 2009, Grand River Valley
- Best of Show Blush/Rose: Heineman Winery, Sweet Belle, Non–vintage, Lake Erie
- Best of Show Fruit Wine: Breitenbach Wine Cellars, Red Raspberry, Non-vintage, American
- Best of Show Dessert Wine: Breitenbach Wine Cellars, 4 Barrel Tawny Port, Non-vintage, American

CONSENSUS GOLD
- Fruit Wines from Natural Fruit Breitenbach Wine Cellars 3 Berry Blend NV American CG
- Fruit Wines from Natural Fruit Breitenbach Wine Cellars Red Raspberry NV American CG
- Dessert: fortified, dry or sweet Breitenbach Wine Cellars 4 Barrel Tawny Port NV American CG
- Pinot Gris/Grigio Burnet Ridge Pinot Gris 2010 Lake Erie CG
- Riesling Debonne Vineyards Riesling Lot 907 Reserve 2009 Grand River Valley CG
- Riesling Ferrante Winery & Ristorante Riesling 2010 American CG
- Cabernet Franc Grand River Cellars Cabernet Franc 2009 Grand River Valley CG
- Ice Wine Grand River Cellars Vidal Blanc Ice Wine 2008 Grand River Valley CG
- American Blush/Rose Heineman Winery Sweet Belle NV Lake Erie CG
- American White: Blends Ravens Glenn Winery White Raven NV American CG
- Flavored Fruit Wines/Specialty Stone Crest Vineyard Blue Stone NV American CG
- Hybrid Red: Blends Valley Vineyards Red Reflections 2009 Ohio River Valley CG
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Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Wine Tastings & Events: June 15-18, 2011



Wednesday, June 15
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Summertime! 1. Rapido White Pinot Grigio, 2. Rapido Red Sangiovese, 3. Robert Reynolds “Rocky’s Block” Old Vine Zinfandel, 4. Oliver Moscato. $7.00 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Tuscan Wines. $15.

Thursday, June 16
The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Spring / Summer Wines: 1.Domaine De Pajot – Les Quatre Cepages – France, 2. Opolo Vineyards – Petite Verdot – Paso Robles, California, 3. Opolo Vineyards – Petite Sirah – Paso Robles, California, 4. i baci – Rosso Dolce – Canada. $3.50 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. 1. Monte Volpe Pinot Bianco, California dry white blend, 2. Enotria Cortese, California dry white, 3. Chehalem Inox, Oregon chardonnay, 4. Gregory Graham Chardonnay
Carneros, California chardonnay, 5. Treasure Hunter Grape Shot Red, Alexander Valley dry red, 6. Ribero del Duero, Tempranillo, 7. Max Richter Estate Riesling. Nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Tuscan Wines. $15.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Red Mountain Riot: Here we go! This is my favorite Washington AVA, and I'm gonna represent! The Red Mountain region is home to many limited production, high end wineries; many of which you and I should never even be able to get our hands on! But guess what? We got 'em!
Nominal fee per sample.

Friday, June 17

* Special Event * Toledo Museum of Art Wine by the Glass Pavilion series: Wines for the Barby. 7:00 to 9:30 PM in the Glass Pavilion. Enjoy four wines, light snacks, and a view of glassmakers working in the Hot Shop. Prices are $15 for members and $20 for nonmembers.

Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Dad's Cabs: 1. Terra Andina, 2. Jean Bousquet, 3. Kiona, 4. Cameron Hughes Lot 189. $15 tasting.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Red Mountain Riot: Here we go! This is my favorite Washington AVA, and I'm gonna represent! The Red Mountain region is home to many limited production, high end wineries; many of which you and I should never even be able to get our hands on! But guess what? We got 'em!
Nominal fee per sample

Saturday, June 18 
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Dad's Cabs: 1. Terra Andina, 2. Jean Bousquet, 3. Kiona, 4. Cameron Hughes Lot 189. $15 tasting.

The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. Saturday wine tasting: 1. Dad’s Day Off Pinot Noir, 2007, Italy; 2. Opolo Petite Sirah, 2006, Paso Robles; 3. Edna Valley Sauvignon Blanc, 2008, San Luis Obispo; 4. Mirassou Riesling, 2009, California. $2.00 per flight or nominal fee per sample.
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12 Noon – 5:00 PM. A Basque Wine Dinner. 5 course gourmet tasting menu with wine.  Traditional Basque cooking and modern-style Spanish Tapas pairing with wines. Call for pricing and detqails.

Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample or by the flight.

AREA WINE BARS
  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • Vino 100 Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 866-8466, Promenade West, 3355 Briarfield Blvd, Suite C, Maumee.
  • Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.
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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
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Tuesday, June 14, 2011

2007 Mayro-Murdick Pinot Noir Carneros

This is a winning Pinot Noir from the Carneros region of Napa Valley. Carneros is known for its cool summers, moderate winters, and afternoon breezes.

We poured this during a recent reception for a group visiting our office and it is terrific.

This has multi-layered flavors of cinnamon, cherry, and vanilla. It has a round, rich flavor that lingers on the tongue. It is refined and elegant. The aging is done in small French oak barrels.

When done right, Pinot Noir can display balance and finesse like almost no other wine. This is an excellent example and should pair wonderfully with a wide variety of foods. Highly recommended.
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Monday, June 13, 2011

Niagara Gets Back to Nature With Wild Fermentation

Hillebrand Wines
A report from TasteCamp North, a special Niagara wine event on both sides of the border for wine writers.

Without fermentation, you have no wine – just an expensive tank of murky grape juice. And yeast is the catalyst that transforms the fruit of the vine into the elixir so dear to our hearts.

During our recent trip to visit wineries in Niagara, we discovered that innovative winemakers there are experimenting with the use of wild fermentation techniques in place of commercial yeast cultures.

Hillebrand Wines and Southbrook are two wineries experimenting with the technique. Hillebrand winemaker Craig McDonald led the TasteCamp group through a tasting of their wild ferment Sauvignon Blanc.

Most wines use commercial yeast and the selection of particular strains can contribute to the finish of wines, enhancing aromas of wood or berries, for example.Wild fermentation means that a winemaker didn’t add commercial yeast, but that the wine started fermenting naturally from wild yeasts in the air and living on grape skins.

It is very much in line with the emphasis on terroir I observed in Niagara. Winemakers there are trying to create wines that taste like Niagara, not Napa or Italy. Wild fermentation zooms in, even more, allowing the wine to taste like the particular vineyard from which it sprang.


With the standard fermentation, a foil package of yeast culture is sprinkled into the crush and within 15 minutes the process has begun. Wild fermentation is much more mysterious and, according to McDonald, much riskier. The winemaker must crush the grapes and wait for them to ferment on their own. You don’t know what you’re going to get. Ideally, you’ll get a more complex wine that layers that express the terroir of the vineyard.

In the tastings we had a Hillebrand, the native ferment Sauvignon Blanc had a more mineral, earthy flavor. Interesting indeed, but side by side with Sauv Blanc fermented the standard (commercial yeast) way, my nod went to the “tame” fermentation. While the wild ferment may have best expressed the terroir, it wasn’t the best expression of the varietal.

It may be thus when you are pushing the envelope. All the variables with wild ferment are not in your control – but when you dial it in, the reward is an incredibly unique artisan wine.

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Saturday, June 11, 2011

Dry Creek Vineyard Releases 2010 Fumé Blanc with QR Code Technology

Bookmark and Share  Dry Creek Vineyard has released of their flagship wine, 2010 Fumé Blanc, in a newly
designed package and incorporating QR code technology on the back label for the first time.

Using a smart phone, consumers can download a QR code reader from their app store. Scanning the image immediately takes a prospective buyer to a link featuring a two-minute video of the winery family discussing the new vintage. “QR codes allow us to engage our customers in a more intimate, personal way,” comments second-generation owner, Kim Stare Wallace. “Imagine standing in your grocery isle and being transported to the vineyard where you hear directly from Dave Stare, the pioneer of Fumé Blanc in Sonoma County. That’s a very connective experience.”

The QR code is not the only change for the 2010 Fumé Blanc. The wine is now offered in a clear glass bottle that the winery says presents a fresh, appealing look that connects to the wine’s immediate drinkability. Dry Creek is well known for their Sauvignon Blanc in the Loire Valley style. It is finished in steel tanks and has refreshing citrus characters and steely minerality.
Here's a use of new technology that will really benefit wine lovers.

Friday, June 10, 2011

Snooth Launches Social Gaming Platform “Wine Rack”

Snooth is a wine media giant with 800,000 users who research wine, post reviews, participate in virtual wine tasting events and locate and buy wine from local retailers. Like others in the online wine business, Snooth is trying to figure out how to leverage the exploding interest in social media. 

They may have taken a major step forward in that effort by launching an online game where you earn virtual trophies for your wine accomplishments.

On June 1, Snooth Media launched Wine Rack, an innovative social gaming platform on Snooth.com (snooth.com/wine-rack). Wine Rack rewards users for reading, tasting, rating and reviewing wines and enables them to easily discover new bottles. At launch, Snooth users have over 20 flights of wine to taste through, and over 30 achievements waiting to be unlocked. Launch sponsor, Terlato Wines International, will be offering limited edition Terlato trophies for the completion of a series of quizzes.

Some of the trophies up for grabs include: Region Specialist, Diverse Palate, Horizontal Taster, and the coveted Aficionado trophy (reserved only for those who have over 50,000 interactions on Snooth). Active members will be able to obtain exclusive access to tastings and unlock special offers from retailers and partners.

“Each day, Snooth users log thousands of interactions on the site.  By organizing those interactions in a structured way, we can create powerful incentives for users to continue to discover new wines,” notes Snooth Media CEO, Rich Tomko. “Enjoying wine is social by nature; we’ve simply taken an age old concept and gave it the ability to live within the social web.”

“We have always looked to create integrated and engaging programs that really create buzz for our portfolio,” says Terlato Wines International VP of Marketing, Paul Ashworth. “Digital is a major initiative and this type of innovation allows us to continue leading the wine industry.”
Wine Rack is Snooth’s latest effort to make wine more accessible and less intimidating. Last year, Snooth launched Snooth Wine Pro, an iPhone app that made it possible for users to identify wines by merely snapping a picture of a bottle’s label.

At launch, Snooth’s 800,000 registered members will be able to view their earned and in-progress trophies and flights as well as wines in their wishlist and wine cellar atsnooth.com/wine-rack.  New users accessing Wine Rack will be able to register for Snooth or can login with their Facebook account.
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Thursday, June 9, 2011

Ca’ Momi 2008 Bianco di California

This is a casual sipper from Ca’ Momi, a Napa winery with a heritage in Northern Italy. Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer, and Chardonnay are blended to create this popular white table wine.

We picked this up as something different to try during a close-out at Andersons. For $6.99 you can’t expect a dazzling wine experience – but even so, this wine was disappointing.

It has an inviting pineapple scent and a light body. The taste, though, is harsh with sharp edges that just don’t smooth out. It’s as if the bad qualities of each grape were accentuated and had a free-for-all in the bottle.

The winery offers two tiers of wine, the top being their Passion Wines that retail between $16 and $20. The House Wines, in which category the Bianco resides, sell for about $11 each. The 2009 Bianco, we notice from their website, is sourced from Napa Valley and so the fruit may be of tastier quality.

Ca’ Momi does get credit for innovation and sustainability. Most of their bottles, including this one, are enclosed with "Nova Twist." Nova Twist is a recyclable plastic material, has no sharp edges and is easily removed. They are the first winery in the US to use this closure.

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Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Wine Tastings & Events: June 8-11, 2011

Wednesday, June 8
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Opolo Vineyards:
These Paso Robles closeouts are big, lush and intense. 1. Merlot, 2. Malbec, 3. Cabernet Franc, 4. Syrah. $7.50 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Nautical Themed Wines. $15.

Thursday, June 9
The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Spring / Summer Wines: 1. Davis Bynum – Chardonnay – Russian River Valley, California; 2. Gerard Bertrand – Natural Merlot – France; 3. 14 Hands – Hot to Trot Red Blend – Washington State. $4.00 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Opolo CLOSEOUT TASTING. Opolo Winery in Paso Robles is in Ohio for the first time. The winery is offering some outstanding deals on older vintages. These vintages (mostly 2005) taste as fine as they will ever taste right now. The Opolo wines are typical Paso Robles, big, full, rich, intense reds with a lot of lushness. In particular the Cabernet Franc and the Petite Verdot have full tannins as well. 1. Opolo Merlot, 2. Opolo Syrah, 3. Opolo Petite Sirah, 4. Opolo Petite Verdot, 5. Opolo Cabernet Franc, 6. Opolo Malbec, 7. Opolo Meastro, 8. Opolo Rhapsody. Nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Nautical Themed Wines. $15.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. You Don't Know Paso!
Paso Robles is one of the hottest AVAs in the nation, literally and figuratively. The Rhone Rangers started here, with plantings of Syrah, and they certainly haven't stopped. Join us as we sample all kinds of Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, the aforementioned Syrah, and a bevy of other stellar bottles. Nominal fee per sample.

Friday, June 10

* Special Event * Toledo Museum of Art Wine by the Glass Pavilion series: Organically Grown. 7:00 to 9:30 PM in the Glass Pavilion. Enjoy four wines, light snacks, and a view of glassmakers working in the Hot Shop. Prices are $15 for members and $20 for nonmembers.

Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Summer Chardonnay: 1. Chehalem INOX, 2. Lioco, 3. Talbott "Kali Hart,” 4. Lafond. $15 tasting.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. You Don't Know Paso!
Paso Robles is one of the hottest AVAs in the nation, literally and figuratively. The Rhone Rangers started here, with plantings of Syrah, and they certainly haven't stopped. Join us as we sample all kinds of Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, the aforementioned Syrah, and a bevy of other stellar bottles. Nominal fee per sample.

Saturday, June 11  
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Summer Chardonnay: 1. Chehalem INOX, 2. Lioco, 3. Talbott "Kali Hart,” 4. Lafond. $15 tasting.

The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. Saturday wine tasting: 1. Dad’s Day Off Pinot Noir, 2007, Italy; 2. Opolo Petite Sirah, 2006, Paso Robles; 3. Edna Valley Sauvignon Blanc, 2008, San Luis Obispo; 4. Mirassou Riesling, 2009, California. $2.00 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample or by the flight. 

AREA WINE BARS
  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • Vino 100 Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 866-8466, Promenade West, 3355 Briarfield Blvd, Suite C, Maumee.
  • Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.
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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
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