Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Wine Tastings & Events: August 31–September 3, 2011



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Wednesday, August 31
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. 1. Lenz Moser Heuriger Gruener Veltliner, 2. Planeta “La Segreta,” 3. Altosur Malbec, 4. La Fiera Rosso Dolce. $7.50 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Cotes du Rhone Wines and Rolling Stones Music. $15.

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6-9 PM. Uncorked ~ Stelvin caps revealed! includes snacks. Cost is $15.

Thursday, September 1
The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. The battle of California Reds: Napa vs. Sonoma. 1. Kenwood Jack London Merlot (Sonoma Valley), 2. Flora Springs Merlot (Napa Valley), 3. Alexander Valley Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon (Sonoma County), 4. Sean Minor Four Bears Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)
$6 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Outstanding Spanish Mid-Priced Wines. 1. La Cana Albarino, 2. Atteca Old Vines Grenache, 3. Tres Picos Grenache, 4. Lan Rioja Crianza, 5. Creda Tempranillo, 6. Altos de la Hoya Mourvedre, 7. Carchelo, 8. Jual Gil Mourvedre. Nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Cotes du Rhone Wines and Rolling Stones Music. $15.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. 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, September 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. Labor Day Party Wines: 1. Dancing Coyote Albarino, 2. Kitchen Sink White, 3. Menguante OV Garnacha, 4. Alias Cabernet Sauvignon. $10 tasting.
Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. Century Club Wine Tasting. Ever wonder what a $100 bottle of wine tastes like? Tastings will begin promptly at 6:30pm. Cost per individual will be based on how many people attend each tasting.
Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM.
Saturday, September 3
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Labor Day Party Wines: 1. Dancing Coyote Albarino, 2. Kitchen Sink White, 3. Menguante OV Garnacha, 4. Alias Cabernet Sauvignon. $10 tasting.
The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. Wines from Argentina: 1. Trivento Torrontes, 2. Altos las Hormigas Malbec, 3. Amalaya Red, 4. Cosechia Tardia Late Harvest White. $2.25 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Mini-Burger Extravaganza. Five mini-burgers (one of each type), duck-fat French fries, two samples of either American wine or craft beer. Price until Sept. 1 is $30. Higher day of event.

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

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6-9 PM Wine flight TBA. 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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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
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Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Balletto Vineyards 2009 Pinot Noir, BCD Vineyard, Russian River Valley


Nothing better to start your pre-weekend than a Thursday night bottle from the Russian River Valley.
After a competitive tennis match, I was able to kick back and enjoy the Balletto Vineyards 2009 Pinot Noir, BCD Vineyard, courtesy of TWAV tasting team members Glorious T and Ace of Bass.
This is a rare wine with a special connection. Acquaintance Ray Carlson is a well-known grape grower in the Russian River Valley and is the “C” in BCD Vineyard along with Balletto and DeLoach.
Ray is a very active member of the National Exchange Club and through that connection, Glorious T was the happy recipient of several bottles.
A single vineyard Pinot Noir, only 12 barrels of the 2009 were produced. The BCD Vineyard was previously blended with other vineyards and this is its first solo performance. It’s quite a treat to be able to sample a special wine like this.
The wine is ruby in color and gave forth a flowery blast as it swirled in the decanter, but the nose was mostly closed after that.
Cranberry and dark cherry flavor notes are evident as well as flavors of tea and earthiness. The wine had noticeable astringency, but as the wine opened up in the glass, it took on more of a rounder feel.
The finish was short and featured not the red fruit notes I expected, but a drier earthier feel. The wine is very complex and structured.
Although this is a nice sipper now, it really needs a year or two to mellow the tannins. The wait will unquestionably be worth it. The wine retails for $34.
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Monday, August 29, 2011

Bowling Green Parks and Recreation 16th Annual Wine & Cheese Social Set September 23

A wonderful evening filled with friends, fun, and fabulous homemade food is planned for the 16th Annual Bowling Green Parks and Recreation Foundation Wine & Cheese Social on Friday, September 23.
WTOL-TV news anchor Jerry Anderson will serve as guest auctioneer, and bid helps reach the goal of enhancing the youth recreational playing fields in Bowling Green. In addition to the live auction, there also will be a 50-50 raffle and a silent auction featuring an array of items.
A great selection of wine will be available courtesy of Bowling Green Beverage.
It’s all happening Friday, September 23, 2011 from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Simpson Building (1291 Conneaut Avenue, Bowling Green).
Get your tickets ($35 each) by calling 419-354-6297 or email rblickensderfer@bgohio.org.
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Saturday, August 27, 2011

The Shores of Erie Wine Festival to Rock the Banks of the Detroit River September 8-11

The 7th Annual Shores of Erie Wine Festival, scheduled September 8-11, will feature continuous live entertainment, over 50 vendors serving up the best local food and wine, master chef cooking demonstrations and wine seminars, an interactive tasting bar. The setting will be on the beautiful banks of the Detroit River, Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada (100 Laird Ave. S., Amherstburg, Ontario). The event will feature the very best of Lake Erie North Shore (LENS) wines.
This is a premier wine event in a scenic setting, just a short drive from Toledo and Detroit. There’s great wine – and a great time – just across the border. We had a chance to visit some LENS wineries back in May and were very impressed. Not only that, but the entertainment will be spectacular, including one of my favorites, the Sam Roberts Band.
The times for the festival are: 5:00 to 10 PM on Thursday and Friday, 12:00 to 10 PM on Saturday and 12:00 to 7:00 PM on Sunday. Unfortunately, according to the website, tickets are sold out for Saturday.
Ticket prices are (first price is in advance, second is at the gate): Thursday – $30/$35, Friday – $20/$25, Sunday – $15/$20. There is a three-day pass for $50 available only at the festival office.
On Thursday night there is a special five-course winemaker dinner paired with award winning LENS wines. The cost is $135 per person and tickets are limited.
For more information and tickets, visit www.soewinefestival.com
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Friday, August 26, 2011

Attems Pinot Grigio 2010, Venezia Giulia IGT, Italia


The 2010 Attems is a Pinot Grigio with full body and expressive terroir – that’s something I don’t recall saying about any Pinot Grigio.

When drinking Pinot Grigio, I expect a lightweight wine with a light fruitiness. This wine, from northeast Italy, turned my impression upside down. This is much more in the style of Pinot Gris than Pinot Grigio. Although they are the same grape, the Pinot Gris is typically more hearty and rustic.

There is some fruit and tang on the nose, but on the palate there is a savory, almost nutty quality. The body is much fuller than the typical Pinot Grigio. In Italy, 2010 was considered a “white wine year.” The fruit imparts a nice balance between acids and sugars and a great mineral quality.

The flavor notes of apple and tropical fruit have a crisp edge to them. Finishing was done for two months in oak barrels, four months in stainless steel and a final month in the bottle.
The wine retails for $19 and is recommended.

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Thursday, August 25, 2011

Anthony Bourdain Blasts 9/11 Wine, But I Think He's Wrong

Anthony Bourdain This photo posted at this blo...Image via WikipediaCelebrity chef and television star Anthony Bourdain has blasted a controversial wine that's being sold to commemorate the upcoming 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks for the symbolic sum of $19.11. Calling the wines "grotesque, exploitative," and "vomit inducing," Bourdain reacted swiftly to the news and pulled some strings to remove the product from his former restaurant's menu. 


New York City Councilman Peter Vallone may have had the best line, saying "What's next? A 9/11 pastrami sandwich?" The 9/11 Memorial Commemorative wines are produced by Lieb Cellars on Long Island.

Some proceeds of all sales will go towards the National September 11 Memorial Museum. This amounts to 10 percent of sales.

Although Lieb is under fire from all directions, this is not a clear cut call in my opinion. Lieb is a well respected New York winery and I believe their intentions are good. It's not a flim-flam exploiting tragedy for financial gain.

Don't leap to conclusions. I had a similar reaction as the critics about a different wine, Cleavage Creek. At first I thought the brand was an attempt to make some profit while demeaning women. Upon closer examination, I found I was completely wrong. The wine labels featured breast cancer survivors and 10% of gross proceeds went to breast cancer research. The winery owner had lost his wife to cancer.

Lieb has been selling wine for this cause since 2004. Mark and Kathy Lieb were deeply affected by the tragedy. They had both worked on Wall Street for many years prior to 9/11, and lost friends and former colleagues in the WTC attacks. "We wanted to contribute in our own way to ensure that the tragic events of 9/11 are never forgotten," said Mr. Lieb. "The commemorative wine gives our winery, as well as restaurants and individuals, the opportunity to participate in the annual observance and to support September's Mission Foundation."

Monica Iken, who founded September's Mission Foundation after losing her husband Michael in the 9/11 tragedy, said she deeply appreciates the donation. "Whoever purchases this special wine will not only be remembering the heroes and innocent victims of that terrible tragedy, but will be supporting our efforts to develop programs at the future memorial site, as well as the 9/11 'Living Memorial,' an internet-based web portal project that will be accessible to everyone."

Doesn't it make sense? If you make wine, wouldn't you want to use your business to make a positive impact in the aftermath of the devastating 9/11 attack? This is a case of what may be a bad idea by well intentioned people who are now enduring a withering media attack.
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Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Wine Tastings & Events: August 24-27, 2011


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Wednesday, August 24
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Red Blend Showdown. There has been an explosion of great red blends recently. Sample four new entries into this highly competitive segment, and see which is the customer favorite: 1. Daisy Chain “Ava’s Red” (Zin/Merlot/Cab/Syrah), 2. Rhiannon (Syrah/Zin/Grenache), 3. Primal Roots (Merlot/Syrah/Zin), 4. Kitchen Sink (Zin/Merlot/Cab/Petite Sirah). $6  per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Summer White Wine & Cheese Tasting. $15.

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6-9 PM. Alter Egos ~ Pinot Gris & Pinot Grigio, Shiraz & Syrah, Mourvedre & Monastrell, Chablis & Chardonnay includes snacks. Cost is $15.

Thursday, August 25
The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. The battle of the Pinots: Oregon vs. California. 1. A to Z Pinot Noir – Oregon, 2. Greg Norman Pinot Noir – Santa Barbara, California, 3. Patricia Green – Eason – Pinot Noir – Dundee Hills, Oregon, 4. Joseph Carr – Pinot Noir – Sonoma Coast, California. $7 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. The hottest trend in wine: Battle of the Mega Wineries Zinfandel Blends. Since Menage Red has claimed the title of the #1 selling red wine in the U.S., many wineries are trying to cash in with Zinfandel blends of their own. Get a scorecard and rate them. Which one will be your favorite? 1. Menage, 2. Rhiannon, 3. Apothic Red, 4. Relative Red, 5. Marietta Old Vine Red, 6. Primal Root, 7. Cameron Hughes Field Blend, 8. Kitchen Sink. Nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Summer White Wine & Cheese Tasting. $15.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Battle in the Bottle! Consider this 'A Clockwork Grape pt.2'. How much influence does the winemaker really have? How much is too much? Nature, or Nurture? The answers to these questions, and so much more this week.
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, August 26
* Special Event * Toledo Museum of Art Wine by the Glass Pavilion series: Tour of Italy. 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. Wines of Argentina: 1. Crios Torrontes, 2. Finca El Reposo Bonarda, 3. Colome "Amalaya" Red Blend, 4. La Linda Malbec. $10 tasting.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Battle in the Bottle! Consider this 'A Clockwork Grape pt.2'. How much influence does the winemaker really have? How much is too much? Nature, or Nurture? The answers to these questions, and so much more this week.
Nominal fee per sample.
Saturday, August 27
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Wines of Argentina: 1. Crios Torrontes, 2. Finca El Reposo Bonarda, 3. Colome "Amalaya" Red Blend, 4. La Linda Malbec. $10 tasting.
The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. This week’s tasting celebrates the annual German/American Festival: 1. Schloss Biebrich Sekt, 2. Affentaler Spatburgunder (Pinot Noir), 3. Dr. Loosen “Dr. L” Riesling, 4. Machmer Gewurtztraminer Spatlese
$2.50 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Inventory Reduction Tasting. Awesome discounts of 30% or more on select premium wines. This is a chance to fill your cellar with awesome wines at a great discount. Premium tasting. Nominal fee per sample or by the 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. 6-9 PM Burgers & BBQ's ~ perfect wines to pair with our new Burgers & BBQ'd duck wings. 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, August 23, 2011

Michigan Wineries Cop Top Honors In Harding’s Cup Cabernet Franc Competition

French red wine from the Loire Valley region o...

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Fourteen wineries from Michigan and two from France competed in the recently held Harding’s Cup Challenge, to determine the best Cabernet Franc. The event was held at the Kellogg Manor House on the scenic bluffs of Gull Lake in Michigan. The place appropriately looks like a grand European getaway more than a Michigan lake house.

Lee Lutes, Master Wine Maker at Black Star Farms and last year's champion, addressed the crowd and stressed the importance of the camaraderie in Michigan wine making and shared the excitement of last year's win, along with moving forward to more success as Cabernet Franc vines mature here in Michigan.

The French Judge, Jean-Jacques Fertal, also took time to share his judge's notes and tease that the French wines had flags on them in the back room for the blind tasting. But of course, the competition takes pride in its integrity. Thank you letters stream in from winemakers and participants following the exciting night, thanking Harding's and their famed Wine Guru for such an amazing event.

The importance of our region competing against the French with a "Noble Red" such as Cabernet Franc is "history making," according to Terry Stingley, the Wine Guru whose passion drives the annual event. A local neighborhood grocer, "Harding's Friendly Market" helped Terry pick up the torch for Michigan's flagship wine Cabernet Franc and create this world class competition for World Class Wines.

The sentiment among the winemakers is the same no matter if they placed or not. Fourteen vintners represented Michigan and two represented the Chinon region of France, which has been producing Cabernet Franc for a millennium. Four wines placed last night with a tie for third place. The top six, however, were mentioned and recognized at the event, all Michigan.

The winners of 2011 Cabernet Franc Harding's Cup "Best of" Challenge are:
5th place: Domaine Berrien Cellars 2002
4th place: Hickory Creek 2007
3rd place tie: Brys Estate 2007 & Free Run 2005
2nd place: Domaine Berrien 2005
1st place Cup Winner: Brys Estate Artisan Series 2007

Mark your calendars and save the date for Thursday, August 16, 2012, where we will challenge the 2010 vintage and see once again who will go home with the Harding's Cup, Michigan or France?

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Monday, August 22, 2011

Foppiano 2006 Estate Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Prevails at Pinot Smackdown 2011


The Pinot Smackdown is a Twitter wine tasting with a twist. Like a pay-for-view professional wresting match filled with costumed hulks, only one contender can leave the ring as champion.
Last Thursday the second annual Pinot Smackdown twitter tasting was held. This was an around the world event with “all the drama and suspense of an American Idol elimination round sending the audience on the edge of their seats to a commercial break…”
The TWAV team gathered for a late evening to taste three Pinot Noirs": 1. 2007 Ampelos Vineyards Lambda, Santa Rita Hills, CA; 2. 2006 Foppiano Vineyards Estate Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, CA: and, 3. 2007 Shaw Vineyards, Finger Lakes, NY. All wines were decanted prior to the tasting.
TWAV has just joined the “twittersphere” (click on the “follow” button at right to keep up with our tweets) so we had a live twitterfeed showing comments from tasters from around the globe. With each tweet, you were to include the hashtag for that winegrowing region (e.g., #CA or #OR). The winner of the smackdown was the region with the most hashtag “votes.”
The Ampelos has been a favorite since owners Rebecca and Peter Work poured their magical wines at a Toledo Museum of Art tasting. The Lambda was the first entry of the evening.
This is a heavenly Pinot with a delicate, balanced touch. Lambda has a vibrant red fruit palate and a round, warming finish. Green Dragon noted a touch of vanilla on the back-end. Somehow Jazz Man ended up with a moose in his pocket and this was tweeted out to everyone’s amusement.
I thought I may have made an error by firing our big gun at first, but I pulled a bottle of 2006 Foppiano banking on the winery’s long-standing reputation for quality. They have been producing wine since the 1800s.
The Foppiano was quite a surprise, coming out with a punchier flavor profile. This had a deeper, richer quality with full dark berry flavor from the start to the finish. The Russian River Valley is an AVA known for amazing wines and this one did not disappoint.
Our group of six tasters showed a remarkable thirst and we delved into our third bottle, a 2007 Shaw Vineyards Pinot Noir obtained on our last visit to the Finger Lakes. This was an enjoyable bottle, but it didn’t have the “big bones” of the Foppiano. It was a more delicate wine with sour cherry flavor notes. The finish was medium in length, but this was a wine that improved with time in the glass. Enjoyable, but several lengths behind the competitors from California.
The consensus winner from our tasting was… the 2006 Foppiano.
According to the official stats, worldwide there were 446,589 users, 5045 tweets, 1067 contributors, and 8.7million impressions. The official Pinot Smackdown winner was a surprise to me: New Zealand, followed close behind by Oregon and California. France grabbed only 3.1% of the votes.
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Saturday, August 20, 2011

Visit To Vino 100 Maumee Provides Trip To French Countryside


We hadn’t visited Vino 100 in Maumee for quite some time. Perhaps the perpetual road construction had something to do with it. We finally were able to return a few days ago to this popular wine bar and had a chance to taste some great wines.
Green Dragon opted for a red flight while I asked our server Nathan what visitors were raving about. He suggested the 1997 Domain de Chelin, Vin de Pays d’Oc. This is a French “country wine” from the Languedoc region. The Vin de Pays is a designation above table wine, but below the tightly regulated AOC appellations.This doesn’t mean the wine is inferior and it often means that you can find a great bargain.
Information on Domaine de Chelin is sparse, but the Vino 100 menu listed it as a Cabernet Sauvignon, which is a prominent grape in the Languedoc region, which is known for producing French wines with an international style at a value.
The 1997 Domaine de Chelin is drinking quite well now. It has delicate cherry flavor notes and a nice, if somewhat mild, berry finish. It is an elegant wine with some French finesse which I rated *** on a five star scale.
Green Dragon liked all of her four wine selections, but her favorite was the stylish Meiomi Pinot Noir from California. ***+ “second favorite” was the Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon, also from California ***+.
By the way, the ‘97 Domain de Chelin is available in the Vino 100 wine shop at a snappy price of only $15. It is certainly worth it if only to say to your dinner guests, “Oh, let me see. Yes, I think I have a very nice ‘97 to go with our meal…”
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Friday, August 19, 2011

Awesome Mini-Burger Wine Extravaganza Planned For Labor Day Weekend


Walt Churchill’s Market in Maumee (Briarfield location) is planning a Mini Burger Extravaganza Saturday, September 3,  from 12:00 to 5:00 PM on their patio.
According to wine manager Austin Beeman, “One last party on the patio. This time we celebrate America through five gourmet mini-burgers, each burger representing a slice of American regional cooking.”
The cost (until September 1st) is $30 for which you get five mini-burgers (one of each type), duck-fat French fries and two samples of either American wine or craft beer.

Prices go up on the day of the event. Preorder tickets must be purchased in the store. Call (419) 794-4000 for information. You can also vote on which five regional burgers they will make by going to “The Wineshop at Walt Churchill’s Market” – Facebook page.
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Thursday, August 18, 2011

A Visit To Copia Urban Winery & Market, St. Louis

Earlier this month while attending a conference in St. Louis, I had the chance for a fun dinner at the Copia Urban Winery & Market. The evening was courtesy of the Myrtle Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau.
So not only did I get to enjoy some vino with new friends, but also got to learn about the many attractions of Myrtle Beach, SC.

Copia is usually closed on Sundays, but they opened up during the our conference for special events like this dinner.
The goal of Copia is to bring the winery experience to downtown St. Louis. The building has exposed brick walls and natural wood beams. Three stainless steel tanks are also prominent in the market area.

The restaurant has a great selection of wine. Unfortunately on this evening, we only had two choices, a Four Vines Zinfandel or Four Vines Chardonnay. Our server was quite pleasant but wasn’t helpful when I asked her to get the manager to open up some different wines for a little variety.

The good news is that Four Vines is a highly regarded California winery. I opted to go red to accompany the beef entre. The Four Vines was rich with a long finish.

The discussion was lively with a party atmosphere. South Carolina must top the list of states for friendliness and hospitality. The photos here are courtesy of Janet Jordan of Meetings, Management, & More in Lexington, SC.
A highlight was the dessert tray. Between the group, all the dessert selections were sampled. I’m usually a crème Brule partisan, but this time I went with a St. Louis favorite, gooey butter cake. It was sensational!

The dinner and wine at Copia were superlative. One final note on Copia. They have a great wine pricing policy. The cost of a bottle of wine in the restaurant is the cost of the wine in their market plus an $8 corkage fee. If only other restaurants were so reasonable in their pricing!

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Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Wine Tastings & Events: August 17-20, 2011


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Wednesday, August 17
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. SUMMER SON-OF-Z-BEST: Our holiday high-end tasting is making a summertime appearance. 1. Abeja Chardonnay, 2. Castello Sonnino Sanleone Toscana 200, 3. Chalk Hill Estate Red 2007, 4. Buller & Son Premium Fine Tokay. $20 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

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

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6-9 PM. Blind Wine Tasting includes snacks. Cost is $15.

Thursday, August 18
The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Summer Thirst Quenchers: 1. Glovello – Prosecco – Italy, 2. Paul Chemeau – Cava – Spain, 3. J Cuvee – Sparkling wine – California, USA, 4. Bott Geyl – Cremant D’ Alsace – Alsace, France. $5 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Favorite Australian Wine Values: 1. Peter Lehmann Layers, 2. Greg Normand Chardonnay, 3. Fire Block Old Vine Grenache, 4. Wishing Tree Shiraz, 5. Greg Normand Cabernet-Merlot, 6. Peter Lehmann Shiraz, 7. Tait Ball Buster, 8. Mollydooker Shiraz. Nominal fee per sample.

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

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. European Wine in Summertime. What else do I have to say? Join us this week for a taste of the best summertime sippers Europe has to offer.  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, August 19
* Special Event * Toledo Museum of Art Wine by the Glass Pavilion series: Not Your Mama’s Chardonnay. 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. Merlot: 1. Zellerbach, 2. Praxis, 3. Mercer, 4. Stag's Leap Wine Cellar. $15 tasting.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. European Wine in Summertime. What else do I have to say? Join us this week for a taste of the best summertime sippers Europe has to offer. Nominal fee per sample.
Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6-8 PM. Russ Wright from TGIC Importers will be at Zinful for a special tasting, $15 plus snacks


Saturday, August 20
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Merlot: 1. Zellerbach, 2. Praxis, 3. Mercer, 4. Stag's Leap Wine Cellar. $15 tasting.
The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. 1. Marilyn Sauvignon Blonde, 2. La Meridiana Bricco Sereno Barbera d’Asti, 3. Winery at Versailles Schokoladenkirschwein. $2.75 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Amazing Values from Bordeaux France. Bordeaux may be full of some of the world’s most expensive wines, but it is decidedly a place of ‘haves’ and ‘have nots.’  We’ll taste some of the wonderful wines that are shockingly inexpensive (for Bordeaux). Nominal fee per sample or by the 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. 6-9 PM Italian Wine Flight with appetizer & dessert for one. 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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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
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Tuesday, August 16, 2011

“Century Club” Wine Tastings To Explore $100 Wine At Beer & Wine Cave

Abraham Lincoln - Series of 1880 $100 bill

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Ever wonder what a $100 bottle of wine tastes like? You’ll have a chance to find out every first Friday of the month at the Beer & Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo (419) 382-6221.

Tastings will begin promptly at 6:30 PM. Cost per individual will be based on how many people attend each tasting. Example 1: A wine that retails for $100 and eight tasters participate, $106.75 (bottle of wine including tax) divided by 8 people = $13.35 cost per person to taste. Example 2: A wine that retails for $145 and eight tasters participate, $154.79 (bottle of wine including tax) divided by 8 people = $19.35 cost per person to taste.

The inaugural first Friday Tastings will start on Friday September 2. If interested, please plan on being at the Cave no later than 6:30 PM so that the treasure wine can fairly and accurately be portioned according to the number of lucky tasters.

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Monday, August 15, 2011

Fourth Annual Wine and Wishes Event Returns To Levis Commons September 15

The Town Center at Levis Commons will be the site of the fourth annual Wine and Wishes fundraiser, benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Ohio. The event will take place on Thursday, September 15, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on the boulevard at The Town Center. The evening will include a variety of wines for sampling from Heidelberg Distributing, appetizers from Levis Commons restaurants and live music by Hepcat Revival. Tickets are $50 each and may be purchased by calling The Town Center at 419-931-8888, at Lily’s at Levis or online at ShopLevisCommons.com.
“Wine and Wishes is definitely one of our favorite events of the year and we are thrilled to help grant the wish of a local child” said Casey Pogan, Marketing Director, Hill Partners, Inc., The Town Center at Levis Commons. “The boulevard serves as the perfect setting for this outdoor event featuring fine wines, fantastic food and relaxing entertainment.”
The mission of The Make-A-Wish Foundation is to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions and to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. The Northwest Ohio chapter has granted more than 1,200 wishes for children in the 21 counties it serves and continues on its mission with the help of the Northwest Ohio businesses.
Photo by Taro Taylor
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Saturday, August 13, 2011

Chappellet Mountain Cuvee 2008, Napa Valley

The Chappellet Mountain Cuvee 2008 is a vibrant wine that was a wonderful addition to a recent meal at the Four Seasons Hotel in St. Louis. I attended the special dinner, hosted by Conference Direct, after a short walk from my hotel near Busch Stadium. It was a hot and sticky evening, but a pleasant walk along the Mississippi.

Our table was next to floor to ceiling windows that afforded a spectacular view of the surging river and a view of one of the many bridges that crosses it.We enjoyed scrumptious appetizers by the outstanding culinary staff at the Four Seasons.

The meal included a chilled gazpacho and a crisp micro green salad with goat cheese. For the entree we were treated to a perfectly prepared herb seasoned filet with Yukon Gold potatoes. The Mountain Cuvee was the perfect pairing.

This is a Bordeaux blend with 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot and 1% each of Malbec and Cabernet Franc. The nose hints that you are in for a rich treat. The approach is silky smooth and the palate is an abundance of black cherry and rush of rich fruit.

The finish really hangs on. It’s like LeBron James elevating for a thunderous, slow motion dunk and dangling on the rim. This is a magnificent example of California winemaking. ****

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Friday, August 12, 2011

“Slow Food” Picnic Supper at the Waterloo Farm Museum Set August 21

Cider orchard at Haygrass. There are several l...

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A special food and wine event to benefits the programs of the Waterloo Area Historical Society and Slow Food Huron Valley chapter is scheduled 4:00 – 8:00 PM Sunday, August 21, at Waterloo Farm Museum, 13493 Waterloo Munith Rd., Grass Lake, MI.

This will be a day in the country at an old-fashioned farm picnic filled with the food, history, and activities of an earlier era. Our Chefs have been researching Michigan foodways of the late 1800s to create a handmade eight-course tasting menu that reflects the era when the Realy family settled in Waterloo. You'll see food being cooked on the hearth and over a wood-fired stove, and you can try corn shelling and ice cream cranking on real old-time implements.

There will be a cash bar with wine available from Lone Oak Vineyard Estate, along with some local beer and hard cider.

Sip lemonade while playing lawn games under the big maple trees, and then cool down with a visit to the old ice house. In addition, there will be music, tours, animals, and a pie auction to enjoy.

As a special treat, legendary culinary historian, Jan Longone, has agreed to conduct an "Antiques Roadshow" for your mysterious kitchen implements and cookbooks.

More information may be found here.  You may order your tickets online. The cost is $30 for SFHV and Waterloo members. Non-member cost is $35. Tickets for children 5 to 12 are $10.

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Thursday, August 11, 2011

Pueblo del Sol 2009 Tannat, Juanico Region, Uruguay

Tannat is Uruguay’s “national grape,” initially grown in the southwestern region of France, but brought to Uruguay in 1870 by a French-
Basque immigrant. Today Uruguay is the largest producer of Tannat in the world.
Pueblo del Sol is a new entry to the US. It is a value wine, priced at under $10. Not much Tannat is available domestically because most is sold in Uruguay. Tannat pops up occasionally as a blending wine.
We uncorked this as we relaxed around the firepit on a perfect evening. The wine has a closed bouquet, not giving much indication of what was in store. There was light blueberry and tannins in the approach. The wine is medium bodied and smooth, but there was no noticeable finish. It just sort of disappeared.
I’ll continue to seek out Tannat, because this is a special grape. On this night, however, it fell short of the mark.
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Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Wine Tastings & Events: August 10-13, 2011

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Wednesday, August 7
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. A bit of this, a bit of that: 1. M de la Fruitiere Muscadet, 2. Londer Gewurztraminer, 3. Scott Harvey Barbera, 4. Alexandria Nicole Quarry Butte. $8 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. The wines of Gregory Graziano. $15.
Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6-9 PM. Summer whites/rose`s & cheese tasting. Cost is $15.

Thursday, August 11
The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Dawg days of summer wines too: 1. Michael & David – 7 Heavenly – Chardonnay – California, 2. Batasiolo – Gavi – Garantita, Italy, 3. Paso A Paso – Verdejo – La Mancha, Spain, 4. Frisk – Riesling – Victoria, Australia. $4 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Cool Fun in the Hot Summertime! 1. Bellini sparkling cocktail, 2. Kir, 3. McNab Ridge Colombard, 4. La Croix Gratiot Picpoul de Pinet, 5. Cuvee des 3 Masses Basses Cote du Rhone, 6. Bonacchi Chianti Classico, 7. Capucine, 8. I Vignalioli di Stefano Moscato D’Asti. Nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. The wines of Gregory Graziano. $15.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Organic Delight. A decade ago, organic and biodynamic wines were widely considered a joke. But now, in these ever-so-green days, many wineries around the world are doing what they can to produce delicious wines with an emphasis on sustainability. Come to this tasting and save the planet! 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, August 12
* Special Event * Toledo Museum of Art Wine by the Glass Pavilion series: Simply Spain. 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. Washington State Wines: 1. Cardaretta White Blend, 2. Maryhill Wine Maker's Red, 3. Hedges CMS, 4. Kiona Sangiovese. $15 tasting.

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Old World V. New World. Taste the same grapes from a different place. We'll pit wines from the Old World (Europe) up against their New World (North and South America, Australia, New Zealand, etc.) counterparts. So much learning – so much fun! Nominal fee per sample.


Saturday, August 13
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Washington State Wines: 1. Cardaretta White Blend, 2. Maryhill Wine Maker's Red, 3. Hedges CMS, 4. Kiona Sangiovese. $15 tasting.

The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. 1. Cameron Hughes Lot 222 Chardonnay, 2. Kenneth Volk Negrette, 3. Tenuta Curezza Prine Salento, 4. Affentaler Riesling. $2.50 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample or by the 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. 6-9 PM Bordeaux's served with appetizer & dessert for one. 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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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
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Tuesday, August 9, 2011

2011 Indy International Wine Awards Announced

Nearly 2500 wines traveled to West Lafayette for one of the nation’s largest wine competitions, the Indy International Wine Competition, August 3-5 at Purdue University. Wines from 35 states and 15 countries - as far away as France, Australia, Chile, and Ethiopia - were judged on appearance, aroma, taste, and aftertaste by 52 international judges.
Williamette Valley Vineyards of Turner, Oregon was awarded Wine of the Year honors for its 2009 Riesling. White Wine of the Year honors went to Gray Monk Estate of Okanagan Centre, British Columbia for its 2010 Ehrenfelser. Kokomo Winery of Healdsburg, California won Red Wine of the Year for its 2008 Cabernet Franc. RosÈ Wine of the Year was awarded to Huber Orchard, Winery & Vineyards of Starlight, Indiana for its 2010 Catawba RosÈ.
Sparkling Wine of the Year honors went to Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards of Sonoma, California for its Carneros Cuvee. Saint Croix Vineyards of Stillwater, Minnesota took the Dessert Wine of the Year award for its 2009 LaCrescent.
Owen Valley Winery of Spencer, Indiana won Fruit Wine of the Year for its 2010 Timber Ridge Pear. Awards for the final two categories, Honey Wine of the Year and Honey Wine Blend of the Year, went to Vino Florida of Madeira Beach, Florida and to White Winter Winery of Iron, Wisconsin, respectively. 
E&J Gallo Winery of Modesto, California was awarded the Winery of the Year Trophy, sponsored by the Leisure Family. The trophy honors the Best International Brand of the entire competition. 
Huber Orchard, Winery & Vineyards of Starlight, Indiana was awarded the Winemaker of the Year Trophy, honoring the winery that wins the most gold medals by brand at the competition.
The Indy International Wine Competition began in 1973 as an Indiana-only event. The competition began admitting entries from around the world in 1992 under Richard Vine, PhD. Dr. Christian Butzke took over the competition’s leadership in 2006.
“Our 52 international judges picked some truly exceptional wines to receive recognition as Wines of the Year of the Indy International Wine Competition,” said Professor Butzke. ” The 2500 wines entered in the 2011 INDY provided an amazing glimpse at creative new wine styles and changing consumer preferences.”
Indiana was well represented in the competition, with 34 of the state’s 62 wineries entering. Hoosier wineries took home a total of 15 Double-Gold, 46 Gold, 115 Silver, and 75 Bronze medals. 
“The Indiana wineries went head to head with wines from throughout the world and brought home 251 medals,” said Jeanette Merritt, marketing director for the Indiana Wine Grape Council. “Indiana wineries also were awarded several of the national trophies. This clearly shows that Indiana wines are of high quality and can be judged well against any wine in the world.”
Huber Orchard, Winery & Vineyards won The Governor’s Cup as the Indiana Winery of the Year, recognizing the winningest Indiana winery.  Huber also won Indiana Wine of the Year with its 2010 Vignoles.
The Indy International has a special award division for Indiana-grown wines. A wine must be composed of more than 85% Indiana-grown fruit to be eligible. Monkey Hollow Winery of St. Meinrad won Indiana-Made Traminette of the Year, honoring Indiana’s Signature Wine and Grape. Owen Valley Winery of Spencer won the Indiana-Grown Fruit Wine of the Year for its 2010 Timber Ridge Pear. Huber Orchard, Winery & Vineyard won the French-American Wine category for its 2010 Vignoles. Huber Orchard, Winery & Vineyards also won the Indiana-Grown American Wine of the Year for its 2010 Catawba. Turtle Run Winery of Corydon won the Indiana-grown Vinifera Wine of the Year for its 2010 Chardonnay.
The Indy International Wine Competition is held at Purdue University and run by the Indiana Wine Grape Council. For a list of all medal-winning wines, log on to www.indyinternational.org.
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