Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Toledo Area Wine Tastings, November 30–December 3, 2011

Beringer Vineyards, Napa Valley, California, USA
Image by jimg944 via Flickr
Wednesday, November 30
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Nominal fee per.
Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. French Wines. $15. Flying Rhino will be sampling and selling their chocolates for the holiday season.

Thursday, December 1
The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Great near-Winter wines: 1. St. Supery – Oak Free Chardonnay – Napa Valley, California, 2. Deloach – Pinot Noir – Russian River Valley, California, 3. Hook & Ladder – The Tillerman – Russian River Valley, California, 4. Saddleback – Cabernet Sauvignon – Napa Valley, California. $6 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Z-BEST
Our premier wine tasting of the year: 1. Failla Occidentail Pinot Noir 2008 $65, 2. Flowers Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2007 $53, 3. Terra Incognito, Ribero del Duero $50, 4. Chalk Hill Estate 2007 375ml  $30, 5. El Nido Clio 2008, Jumilla $58, 6. Two Hands Bella’s Garden Shiraz 2009, Australia $64, 7. Gorman Evil Twin 2005, Washington $60, 8. Gleatzer Amon Ra Barossa Shiraz 2010, Australia $110,9. Fisher Wedding (Publisher’s note: It’s not our practice to list wine prices, but we include them here to give you an indication of the quality at this special tasting.) Prime rib from the HOUSE of MEATS, Gourmet Coffee, Desserts, Cheeses. 6-8 p.m. No reservation required. Nominal fee per sample.
Vineyard Sonoma Cabernet 2001 $130, 10. Leonetti Washington Cabernet 2008 $100, 11. Cliff Lede Poetry, Stag’s Leap, Napa 2007 $160, 12. Altamura Napa Cabernet 2006 $95, 13. Carter Coliseum Block, Napa Cabernet 2008 $150, 14. Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet 2007 $120, 15. Chateau Leoville Barton Saint-Julien 2003, Bordeaux $151, 16. Donnhoff Oberhauser Brucke 2004 Riesling Auslese 375ml $55, 17. Donhoff Neiderhauser Hermanshole 2006 Riesling Auslese 375ml $61,18. Dolce 2006 Late Harvest, California 357ml $91.

The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 5-7 PM. Wines That Rock: 1. Woodstock Chardonnay, 2. Rolling Stones Forty Licks Merlot, 3. The Police Synchronicity Red, 4. Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon Cabernet Sauvignon.  $2 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. French Wines. $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, December 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. Red Blends: 1. Ventana Rubystone, 2. Hedges CMS, 3. Rancho Sisquoc River Red, 4. Bogle Phantom. $10 tasting.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221, 6:30 PM. Century Club tasting:  Duckhorn Estate 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon. A chance to sample a high-end bottle costing $100 or more. The cost of the bottle is split evenly among those who come to the tasting.




Saturday, December 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. Red Blends: 1. Ventana Rubystone, 2. Hedges CMS, 3. Rancho Sisquoc River Red, 4. Bogle Phantom. $10 tasting.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. The Long-Awaited Grower Champagne Event. We are the region’s leader in real Champagne. Join us as we taste the finest true Champagnes in the world. Small family-farm operations that make great quality and deliver the best value Champagne has to offer. Premium tasting.

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 Special wine tasting. 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, November 29, 2011

Italian Wines, High End Tastings Are Featured At Area Wine Shops

Pic taken outside Corropoli, Abruzzo, Italy. V...

Image via Wikipedia

Vino 100 Maumee’s Tuesday tasting will feature Italian wine, while the Beer & Wine Cave’s monthly Century Club tasting will allow connoisseurs the chance to sample a selected wine that sports a $100-plus price tag. 

Vino 100 Maumee, (419) 866-8466, Promenade West, 3355 Briarfield Blvd, Suite C, continues its series of Tuesday open house style tastings November 29, 6:00 to 9:00 PM, with a tasting of five Italian wines.  The cost is $10 and features light appetizers. Wines to be tasted include: 2007 Quattro Leoni, 2009 Listra Sangiovesse Blend, 2006 Villabella Ripasso, 2008 Vitiano Rosso, 2008 Dogajolo Super Tuscan.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221, offers Century Club tastings the first Friday of each month at 6:30 PM. It gives wine lovers a chance to sample a high-end bottle costing $100 or more which they might not typically have a chance to taste. The cost of the bottle is split evenly among those who come to the tasting.The featured bottle this month is Duckhorn Estate 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon.

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Monday, November 28, 2011

Millbrook Winery 2010 Tocai Friulano


The 2010 Tocai Friulano comes from Millbrook Winery in New York’s Hudson Valley. The grape is most widely planted and consumed in the Friulia region in Northeast Italy. It is also sometimes known as Sauvignon Vert (Green Sauvignon?).
Millbrook has 30 acres of vines, five of which are dedicated to this unique Italian grape. This is an estate bottled wine. When we visited last summer we knew we had to pick up a bottle.
This is a refreshing wine. One sip transports you to the sun-dappled country side of Italy. This is recommended for fans of ABC (Anything But Chardonnay)!
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Saturday, November 26, 2011

Free Nights, Discounted Rates Available During Finger Lakes Winter Wine Weekends

Finger Lakes wineries and lodgings are giving you the opportunity to extend your winter getaway and stay another day in Wine Country. When you book a Winter Wine Weekends package (through March 31, 2012), you will receive discounted rates or free nights with participating accommodations and the Palate Passport at check-in. The Passport provides great discounts, deals, and experiences from many popular attractions, wineries, and restaurants.

You can find out more information about the Winter Wine Weekends at the Finger Lakes Wine Country website. To participate, you should book your Winter Wine Weekend package directly through any of the participating accommodations. Upon check-in you will receive your free Palate Passport.

Friday, November 25, 2011

Paper Moon Vineyards: Ohio Winery Visit

We found Paper Moon Vineyards, 2008 State Road, Vermilion, Ohio, (440) 967-2500, to be like an Oreo during our recent visit – all the good stuff is on the inside! Pulling into the parking lot, we saw a big, unassuming metal building that looked more like a warehouse than the purveyor of quality wine. Walking inside, however, the winery is big and beautiful – just the place to enjoy a glass of wine in front of the fireplace or listen to a band with friends.

The winery is a family business. The Cawrse family operated the Cloverdale Creamery, which operated for 36 years. It later focused on institutional food service, catering to large school systems. In 2006 Cloverdale Foods was sold and it was decided to open a winery that offered adults a “restorative social atmosphere.”

Adam Cawrse is the winemaker. “I went to France on a church mission trip and was introduced to wine,” he said. “I came back with a passion.” He has studied at UC-Davis and now directs the winemaking for Paper Moon.

The winery sits on 50 acres of cleared and wooded land just west of the Vermilion River. It’s located less than two miles from Lake Erie and lies in a region known for its flourishing vineyards.

In May of 2008, 4,000 vines were planted over five acres of the property. These vines require a few years to mature and include Vidal Blanc, Traminette, Noiret, Marquette and Chambourcin. Adam says the first full harvest of their own grapes should take place in 2012. The winery will focus on blends and small lot batches. We were excited to hear that Adam is a Dry Riesling fan and hopes to make some in future years.

Currently the winery purchases and processes grapes or juice. Most is sourced from the Lake Erie area or Lodi, California. The winery has a destemmer/crusher and a press for processing fresh grapes. The production room also includes stainless steel, temperature-controlled tanks that allow the winemaker to control the fermentation process. The lab is outfitted to monitor the winemaking process from grapes to wine.

Our first taste was the Viognier, which is made with Lodi grapes. This had a tart, citrus flavor. The Riesling used Lake Erie fruit and was finished in a semi-sweet style. These wines were enjoyable, but simple.

The reds were more to our liking. The Chambourcin is another Lake Erie product with a tart, semi-dry flavor of raspberries. Chambourcin is one of my favorite regional grapes. The Sangiovese had a very light color and body and was dry and earthy.

The winning wine was the Old Vine Zinfandel, using grapes from Lodi (which is known for great Zinfandel). This was light in style with flavorful berry and plum flavor. We combined it with a cut truffle from Brammer’s and the combination was a home run!

Paper Moon’s tasting room features a stone and stucco décor with a copper tasting bar and a large fireplace. Tables made from oak barrels fill the area. There is also a covered patio area that seats about 60. Outside is a grassy courtyard that has a fire ring and plenty of room for outside fun during nice weather.

The winery has only been open for two years, but it is clear to see they are doing things first class. Paper Moon is a enjoyable visit for wine, food or music and the real fun will start when wines are produced from their own vineyard.

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Thursday, November 24, 2011

Insider Tips For Dining and Staying In Finger Lakes’ Cayuga County

The Finger Lakes, 11 pristine lakes spread like fingers across central New York , encompasses 9,000 plus square miles of outdoor adventures and bucolic scenery with a nice mix of urban hot spots to boot.

The region offers world class vineyards, farm to table culinary delights and internationally acclaimed annual festivals. With more than 100 wineries spread between 14 counties, the Finger Lakes region is known to produce the best Rieslings and Gewurztraminers outside of Germany.

Cayuga County is located in the heart of the Finger Lakes and offers travelers an array of delectable culinary and wine-infused experiences from vintner training to cheese trail hopping.

Here are some are some travel suggestions from the Cayuga County Tourism Office
Where to Eat:
$$$ - Aurora Inn - The award-winning, refined American cuisine is inspired by the changing seasons and fresh regional products and pairs perfectly with the vast array of Finger Lakes wines on their list. Aurora Inn offers an elegant indoor dining room as well as lakeside dining on their spacious veranda, perfect for taking in Finger Lakes sunsets. www.aurora-inn.com

$$$ - Moro’s Table - Chef Moro searches out only the freshest, finest product and utilizes the surrounding abundance of the Finger Lakes region whenever possible in his American-style cuisine. His passion for simplicity and purity of flavor ensures that each dish is balanced and impressionable. www.morostable.com

$$ - Pumpkin Hill Bistro - The Pumpkin Hill Bistro menu features down to earth comfort food "with a twist" served at moderate prices in a unpretentious, but charming atmosphere. Delight in the charm of the bistro's peaceful storied setting, while enjoying a fine selection of Cayuga Lake wines and delectable culinary options. Diners can also shop for unique antiques and gifts at the Country Store. www.pumpkinhillbistro.com

Where to Pick & Buy Local:
$ - Long Point Orchard - Fruit enthusiasts can pick their locally grown produce or purchase it from the farm stand located at 2007 State Rte 90 in Aurora. Please note that they are closed on Mondays.

$ - Grisamore Farms – Featuring an array of delectable fruity crops from strawberries to sweet cherries to blueberries, Grisamore Farms is the ideal U-pick destination. For those wanting to bypass the picking process, their farm store is located in a 19th century dairy barn and equipped with an array of delectable items for sale. www.grisamorefarms.com

$ - The Produce Place – Specializing in fresh, local produce as it ripens, The Produce Place sells sweet corn, tomatoes, pies and custard just to name a few. www.theproduceplace.net

$ - King Ferry Farmer's Market - This pop-up marketplace located just off of Route 90, boasts farmstead cheese, organic flour, organic vegetables, plants and flowers, fiber art, pottery and jewelry among many other locally grown and produced items. http://kingferry.blogspot.com

Where to Stay:
$$$ - Aurora Inn - Aurora Inn , set on the shores of Cayuga Lake amidst a heritage village, has a pedigree dating back to 1833. The original Finger Lakes inn, built in Federal style with red brick and wide columned balconies, has been impeccably restored with understated elegance to appeal to the most discerning guests. The quintessential bed and breakfast is renowned for being a lakeside haven with hammocks and Adirondack chairs putting calm and relaxation at the forefront. The Aurora Inn embodies the intimacy of a bed and breakfast with services and amenities that only a luxury hotel can offer. www.aurora-inn.com

$$$ - E.B. Morgan House - Formerly the home of Colonel Edwin Barber Morgan, co-founder of The New York Times and American Express, the E.B. Morgan House offers seven stylish guest rooms, exquisite living spaces, gracious porches that overlook the lake and lawns and an exceptional collection of original modern art. www.ebmorganhouse.com

$$ - Dill’s Run Bed & Breakfast and Vineyard - Dill's Run Bed and Breakfast is located along the east side of Cayuga Lake on Scenic New York State Route 90 in the Town of Ledyard. The lovely Italianate Victorian house was built in the late 1830's by R. Dill and has recently been restored. It is ideally located on 15.5 acres just four miles north of Aurora , 15 minutes from Auburn , 35 minutes from Ithaca and 25 minutes from Seneca Falls . Dills Run also has a vineyard that offers some of the best in Finger Lakes wines which is open from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Friday through Sunday and by appointment. www.dillsrun.com

$ - Cayuga Marina and Campground - Located on the north end of scenic Cayuga Lake, a short distance from Lock One, Seneca Canal, and the Montezuma Wildlife Preserve. Cayuga Marina and Campground is ideal for an overnight, weekend or week stay for both outdoor sports enthusiasts, and those who just appreciate the beautiful countryside and relaxing lake side atmosphere. The facility features a full range of seasonal guest accommodations and marina services for patrons. www.cayugamarina.info

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Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: November 23-26, 2011

Thanksgiving Table With Food
Image by Mr. T in DC via Flickr
Wednesday, November 23  
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Wines for the Feast Part II: The “Last Minute” Edition. 1. M. Lawrence Brut Rose, 2. Gilbert Cellars Estate Chardonnay, 3. Wild Horse “Cheval Sauvage” Pinot Noir, 4. Michael David “Petite Petit.” Nominal fee per sample or $10 per flight.
Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Holiday Wines Part II featuring Special Guest Gianni Vanni and some of his favorite wines from European Wine Imports . $15.

Thursday, November 24
Thanksgiving. Enjoy a glass of your favorite vino with friends and family.

Friday, November 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. Southern French Reds: 1. Chateau Ollieux Romanis, 2. Chateau Tour Boisee Minervois, 3. Paul Autard Cotes du Rhone, 4. Domaine Chaume-Arnaud. $10 tasting.

Saturday, November 26
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Southern French Reds: 1. Chateau Ollieux Romanis, 2. Chateau Tour Boisee Minervois, 3. Paul Autard Cotes du Rhone, 4. Domaine Chaume-Arnaud. $10 tasting.
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. The World’s Finest Grower Champagnes. Super premium tasting. 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.
Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6-9 PM Special wine tasting. 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.
Technorati Tags: wine
[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
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Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Dr. Konstantin Frank 2007 Rkatsiteli


Rkatsiteli is one of the oldest grape varieties known to man. It originates in the Eastern European country of Georgia and seeds of this grape have been found in clay vessels dating back to 3000 BC.
Dr. Konstantin Frank Vinifera Cellars in the Finger Lakes is a prominent producer of this grape, which was once popular in the Soviet Union.

I had picked up a bottle a couple years ago while on a Finger Lakes trip and noticed that the vintage would soon pass its peak, so we chilled and popped the cork (and “chilled” again!).

It’s an offbeat white with an aroma of herbs and flowers. It is dry and crisp and Green Dragon said it is a perfect match for olives.
Rated *** of *****.

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Monday, November 21, 2011

Three Versatile Pinot Noirs For Your Thanksgiving Feast


For many hosts choosing wines for the Thanksgiving meal can present a challenge. You need a wine that compliments the many different tastes and textures of this holiday feast. One of your best choices is a Pinot Noir, a wine that flashes elegance and a light taste that doesn’t bring an uninvited heavy flavor to the table.

We recently sampled three Pinots to see how they will pair with your Turkey Day food. Kudos to Green Dragon, who prepared a delicious herb-seasoned turkey tenderloin accompanied by a butternut squash risotto.

We opened with the 2009 The Crossings Pinot Noir from New Zealand’s Marlborough region. Marlborough is known for knockout Sauvignon Blanc, but in a recent worldwide tasting event, New Zealand was the top choice for Pinot Noir. This wine has a smoky cherry nose and tasted a bit aggressive on the front end. Once the turkey was being gobbled it started to blend nicely and offered up spicy raspberry flavor notes. Price is about $19.

Our second tasting was the Sonoma Coast Vineyards Freestone Hills Pinot Noir 2008. This is a beautiful Pinot that you can be proud to serve on any occasion. It has a smooth glide of dark black cherry and raspberry that warms the palate and accentuates the turkey flavor. The finish is medium in duration with moist cherry. The fruit is prominent without being jammy. Price is about $40.

We circled back and made an unconventional Pinot the final selection. Llia Llia 2010 Pinot Noir is from Chile and is still a young wine. It is a brilliant red color with ripe and intense fruit. This is a simpler, more earthy wine than the rest yet paired well with our pumpkin roll dessert. Although this wouldn’t be our first pick for Thanksgiving, it isn’t a bad choice and is certainly a great value. Price is about $13.

Full Disclosure: We received these wines as samples.

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Saturday, November 19, 2011

Popular Tannenbaum Trail Event on Ohio’s Vines & Wines Trail Set For December

Wineries on the Vines and Wines wine trail will be hosting their annual holiday-themed Tannenbaum Trail event for three consecutive weekends in December (2nd and 3rd, 9th and 10th, and 16th and 17th), noon to 6:00 PM. This event sells out so quickly we wanted to give our readers a chance to take advantage of this great event. The cost is $45 per couple or $35 per single. You must have advance reservations.
The event gives you the opportunity to travel to wineries in northeast Ohio. Between noon and 6:00 PM each day you can sample wine and enjoy appetizers. At a designated winery you will receive a beautiful Schott Zwiesel wine glass and a 16" Christmas tree. At each of the wineries you will pick up an ornament to adorn your tree.

There is a great list of participating wineries this year:
  • Bene Vino Urban Winery, Perry
  • Biscotti Family Winery, Conneaut
  • Buccia Vineyards, Conneaut
  • Debonné Vineyards, Madison
  • Emerine Estates, Jefferson
  • Grand River Vineyards, Madison
  • Ferrante Winery, Geneva
  • Laleure Vineyards, Parkman
  • Laurello Vineyards, Geneva
  • Maple Ridge Vineyards, Madison
  • Old Firehouse Winery, Geneva-on-the-Lake
  • Old Mill Winery, Geneva
  • St Joseph Vineyard, Madison
  • The Winery at Springhill, Geneva
  • Virant Family Winery, Geneva
To make your reservations please call (800) 227-6972 or order online here. The event is sponsored by the Ohio Wine Producers Association.
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Friday, November 18, 2011

BE IN THE KNOW ABOUT NOUVEAU

Beaujolais Nouveau is here! The first wine bottled from the 2011 vintage was officially released to the public yesterday (the third Thursday of November) amidst hype and celebrations. It’s a young, fun wine. Here are 10 facts so you're up to speed on this French phenomenon.
  1. Beaujolais is located in the region of Burgundy, France, where winemaking traces back to the Roman times. There are 2,500 Beaujolais growers in the region.
  2. By law, Beaujolais grapes must be harvested by hand and grown on individual, free standing vines. In 2011 the harvest started on August 24th across the 3,000 vineyards.
  3. Beaujolais Nouveau is made from 100% Gamay grapes, which have thinner skins than most grapes, causing a lower tannin level. The wine is meant to be served slightly cool, at about 55°F which makes it even more refreshing and fruit forward than if you serve it at room temperature.
  4. Beaujolais Nouveau owes its easy drinkability to a winemaking process called carbonic maceration, or whole-berry fermentation. This technique preserves the fresh, fruity quality of the wine, without extracting bitter tannins from the grape skins.
  5. Beaujolais Nouveau pairs beautifully with a range of foods, from casual dishes to holiday dishes such as turkey and ham. Because of the timing of its release, Beaujolais Nouveau is widely known as the ideal wine to serve at Thanksgiving.
  6. Originally, Beaujolais Nouveau was the wine of the vineyard workers, consumed to celebrate the end of harvest and giving them a first taste of the new vintage.
  7. In 1985, France passed a law requiring that Beaujolais Nouveau must always be released on the third Thursday in November all over the world.
  8. As a way to herald the wine’s official release, Beaujolais Nouveau countdown parties became popular throughout France and abroad. Now, Beaujolais Nouveau Day is a global celebration, much like New Year’s Eve or Fat Tuesday.
  9. More than 35 million bottles of Beaujolais Nouveau are expected to be consumed in the months following the wine’s release.
  10. Since arriving for the first time in the U.S. in 1982, the Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau label has featured a vibrant, one- of- a- kind design.
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Thursday, November 17, 2011

Downtown Delights Reveals Tasty New Wines


We recently attended the wine show put on by TREO in Sylvania in conjunction with the Downtown Delights event. There were six distributors and more than 40 wines.

Green Dragon and I were running a bit late, but started getting pumped for the event when we noticed spotlights crisscrossing the sky in Sylvania. The crowd was packed into TREO’s private dining room. In addition to the wine there were light appetizers plus cheese from Tecumseh's Boulevard Market and sweets from Little Boe Sweets.

It was quite a bargain with 40 wines from which to choose and 10 samples each for $10.
Our top picks were:

2009 Rancho Sisquoc River Red. This was a nice blend of 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 18% Pinot Noir, 13% Syrah, 10% Malbec, and 4% Sangiovese. This was a smooth yet sophisticated blend with dashes of strawberry and oak. To simplify this for me, I kept requesting the Sasquatch wine. I guess you can say it has a Bigfoot of flavor. Costs about $18.

2008 Tacchino Albarola Barbera. This is a Piedmont red from Italy made with 100% Barbera. It has a persistent blackberry fruit flavor with light oak. It has a nice balance and medium body. Soft but not wimpy. We found this to be a nice pairing for dinner afterwards. I had TREO’s outstanding lasagna, but it should also go well with red meat.

2010 Nine Walks Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough. Green Dragon is a Sauv Blanc fan, especially from New Zealand’s Marlborough region. This is young and fresh with plenty of citrus and some light grassy notes.

2008 Stratton Lummis Lot One “The Riddler.” This is a Napa Valley red wine made with Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. The full list of grapes isn’t disclosed (you crazy Riddler, you!), but I suspect Merlot is in there as well due to the smooth finish. This had a twinge of sweetness to it with a nice berry and floral flavor mix.

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Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: November 16-19. 2011


Wednesday, November 16
* Special Event * TREO Wine Bar, 5703 Main St., Sylvania, (419) 882-2266. 6-9 PM, 4th Annual Fall Harvest Dinner with special guest Stefano Poggi, from Batasiolo Winery. Five course Northern Italian dinner paired with five Batasiolo wines. $45 per person, 6:30 PM meet and greet, 7:00 PM dinner. Space is limited, for reservations contact info@treosylvania.com or call 419-882-2266.

The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Son of Z-Best: For this once a year tasting Mike Bailey from our House of Meats will be preparing prime rib, Saundra will be preparing a variety of special foods to accompany the wines, our departments will have special items for your holiday entertaining needs, and we will have live jazz! 1. Quinta do Feital “Auratus” Alvarinho/Trajadura 2009 ($15.99); 2. Groth Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 ($99.99); 3. Antinori “Tignanello” (99.99); 4. Capanna Brunello di Montalcino 2006 ($59.99) Flight is $35 and wines are also available by the sample. We don’t normally include the cost of a bottle, but we included it this time so you were aware of the quality of the wines featured – TWAV.

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

Thursday, November 17
* Special Event * Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 6:00 – 8:30 PM.Beaujolais Nouveau 2011. $35 per person.  Limited to 25. Must buy tickets in advance. The fresh crisp Beaujolais Nouveau has arrived and we’ll be celebrating. Chef Bill will be once again cooking his authentic French Cassoulet and we have a special guest making dessert crepes. And of course plenty of delicious Beaujolais Nouveau to wash it all down.
The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. A Night with Batasiolo Wines: 1. Gavi, 2. Barberesco, 3. Barolo, 4. BOSC – Moscato di Asti. $6 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Wines for the feast II.  Pinot Noir: 1. Jigsaw, Oregon, 2. Laetitia, Arroy Secco, 3. Neudorf, New Zealand, 4. Calera, Central Coast, 5. Albert Bichet Beaune (Burgundy), 6. Chehalem Ribbon Ridge, Willamette Valley, 7. Le Cousins, Willamette Valley. Rieslings: 8. Donhoff Trocken (dry) Riesling, 9. Donnhoff Riesling (lightly sweet). Nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 5-7 PM. Wines for the Feast, Part Three: 1. Jouly Vouvray (Chenin Blanc), 2. Cameron Hughes Sauvignon Blanc, 3. J. Lohr Cabernet Sauvignon, 4. Fritz Windisch Dornfelder. $2 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Holiday Friendly Wines Part I. $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, November 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. Thanksgiving Day Wines (Served with Deep Fried Turkey): 1. Galasso Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, 2. Row Eleven "Vinas 3" Pinot Noir, 3. Corvidae "Rook" Red Blend, 4. Rive Della Chiesa Rose. $15 tasting.

Saturday, November 19
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Thanksgiving Day Wines (Served with Deep Fried Turkey): 1. Galasso Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, 2. Row Eleven "Vinas 3" Pinot Noir, 3. Corvidae "Rook" Red Blend, 4. Rive Della Chiesa Rose. $15 tasting.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. The Best of American Pinot Noir. Premium tasting. 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.

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6-9 PM Special wine tasting. 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, November 15, 2011

Batasiolo Winery Featured At TREO Italian Wine Dinner November 16

On Wednesday, November 16, TREO will host its 4th Annual Fall Harvest Dinner with very special guest Stefano Poggi, from the Batasiolo Winery in Italy. The dinner will feature five courses of traditional Northern Italian fare, paired with five great Batasiolo wines. Stefano is wonderfully entertaining and has arranged his schedule so that he may dine with you.

Cost for this event is $45 per person and includes dinner and wine. Dinner is served at 7:00 PM, but you are welcome to arrive early for a meet-and-greet with Stefano beforehand. Hors d'oeuvres will be served at 6:30 PM.

Space will be limited, so please call to make your reservation soon. Please contact info@treosylvania.com or call 419-882-2266.




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Monday, November 14, 2011

Vermillion Valley Vineyards: Ohio Winery Visit

Lorain County’s Vermillion Valley Vineyards is situated on a 23-acre site featuring 5,000 classic variety grapevines and its award-winning environmentally friendly building. The winery focuses on small batch production and a philosophy of sustainability that fits in solidly with its rural community.

This was our second stop on a meandering trip from Toledo to Cleveland. It was also a highlight, because tucked away on Gore Orphanage Road in Wakeman, Ohio, is a real gem of a winery with well-crafted vinifera wines and a showcase of a tasting room.

As we rumbled up the dirt driveway, we noticed only one other vehicle. Green Dragon proclaimed that the winery was closed and we should turn around. But I noticed a gentleman carrying a bucket and I asked him. Unfortunately, he confirmed that the hours listed on the website were wrong and the winery didn’t open until 3. Bummer!

Fortune favors the bold, so I told him I had heard a lot about the winery and would love to get a peak inside.

As luck would have it, the friendly soul was winemaker David Benzing. He was happy to take us into the winery and pour some samples. We walk in though a side entrance and saw his current project, a batch of pungent Cabernet Franc grapes in a large container.

He poured us the 2010 Lake Erie Cabernet Franc and it was a bit startling. While Ohio has the terroir to produce great grapes, some of the state wineries lack winemakers with sufficient “chops” to make the best use of them and the end result is flat and listless.

The Cab Franc has a nice structure with a mouthful of cherries and blackberries. As we were enjoying a glass, we had a chance to take in the beauty of the tasting room. What caught my attention was the locally harvested white oak and black walnut floors and trim. It gives it a warm yet contemporary look. It is also chock-full of environmentally sound features such as a monitor roof, which promotes passive ventilation and heating during appropriate seasons.

Our next taste was the 2010 Traminette. This estate grown beauty is the best Traminette I’ve ever tasted. I’ve had at least a dozen different versions in New York, Ohio and national wine tasting events. They have always come off as a weak sister to Gewürztraminer. This one, however, blazed its own trail with good body, spiciness and a hint of smoke. At $14, this is a real steal.

Vermillion Valley’s pursuit of the best wines leads down a difficult path. The classic vinifera varieties aren’t as hearty as the French hybrids or the native labrusca grapes and that requires special precautions during the rugged Ohio winters. The results have clearly been worthwhile.

We were able to also sample the inky Dornfelder medium bodied and blackberry driven. Another winner was the 2010 Pinot Gris. This had pronounced minerality and a pop of tartness. This is also a wine that is superior to the majority of Ohio wines.

A special tip of the cap to winemaker David for opening up to a couple of thirsty travelers. Vermillion Valley should be high on the list for those seeking fine wines in the Buckeye State.
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Saturday, November 12, 2011

Tasty Insider Tips For Wine Tasting In Finger Lake’s Cayuga County

Wine PouringThe Finger Lakes, eleven pristine lakes spread like fingers across central New York , encompasses 9,000 plus square miles of outdoor adventures and bucolic scenery with a nice mix of urban hot spots to boot.

The region offers world class vineyards, farm to table culinary delights and internationally acclaimed annual festivals. With more than 100 wineries spread between 14 counties, the Finger Lakes region is known to produce the best Rieslings and Gewurztraminers outside of Germany.

Cayuga County is located in the heart of the Finger Lakes and offers travelers an array of delectable culinary and wine-infused experiences from vintner training to cheese trail hopping.

Here are some are some travel suggestions from the Cayuga County Tourism Office.

Where to Wine Taste:
$$$ - Heart & Hands Wine Co. - Heart & Hands Wine Company offers a unique, hands-on winemaking opportunity during the harvest season. Participants discover winemaking activities including picking fruit, sorting grapes, daily punchdowns, lab analysis, pressing grapes and equipment cleaning. Their limited production, currently under 1500 cases, allows for an intense focus on quality. Committed to producing cool climate wines which authentically express the character of the Finger Lakes, Heart & Hands Wine Company is located in a serene setting overlooking the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake . www.heartandhandswine.com

Long Point Winery Overlooking Cayuga Lake$$$ - Bet the Farm - Bet the Farm features a farm winery, regional wine shop and gourmet market. Their hand-crafted wines are sold alongside a premier selection of other Finger Lakes wines at their shop in the village of Aurora . In addition to wine, they offer gourmet foods produced throughout New York State .www.betthefarmny.com

$$ - King Ferry Winery - King Ferry Winery focuses on Chardonnay and Riesling varieties. The winery offers a world-class estate “Taste the Artistry" of Treleaven wine series and invites guests to enjoy works by local artists in the Tasting Room gallery and gift shop. www.treleavenwines.com

$$ - Long Point Winery - Winemaker Gary Barletta focuses his attention on dry red wines such as Merlot and Syrah while his wife Rosemary serves up her specialty sandwiches in Amelia's Deli. Located just off scenic State Route 90 the winery features a breathtaking view overlooking Cayuga Lake . www.longpointwinery.com.

Insider Winery Tips:
· Most wineries have a small tasting fee which is often refunded with a purchase of wine so the cost to taste is virtually free.
· Cheese can be nibbled between wine tastings along the Cayuga Scenic Byway with the Finger Lakes Cheese Trail. Visit http://flcheesetrail.com for a full listing of cheese-infused stops.
· Escorted wine tours are the ideal way to indulge while letting someone else do the driving.
o Big D's Limo Service (www.bigdslimos.com): 5 Depew Street • Auburn , NY 13021
o Experience! The Finger Lakes, LLC (www.ExperienceFingerLakes.com): P.O. Box 3787 • Ithaca , NY 14850
o Quality Wine Tours (www.qualitywinetours.com): P.O. Box 435 • Pittsford , NY 14534

Next week we’ll provide tips on where to eat and where to stay while in Cayuga County.
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Friday, November 11, 2011

Lake Erie North Shore Wineries To Host 3rd Annual Taste of the Season Holiday Open House.

TasteCamp North 2011 018Thirteen participating wineries from the Lake Erie North Shore Wine Region in Southwestern Ontario will be providing an assortment of holiday cheer at their wineries November 26 and 27. This is a thank you to the communities that have supported the wineries as well as a fundraiser for local food banks.

To enjoy this special event, bring canned goods or cash donations to any of the participating wineries. This is a chance to weave your way across the county and the Lake Erie Shore line to discover new vintages, culinary delights, music and unique experiences at each winery. It’s a way to make your holiday shopping fun. You may also enter for a chance to win door prizes and the “Taste of the Season” grand prize.

Participating wineries are: Aleksander Estate Winery, 1542 County Rd 34 Ruthven, ON (519) 326-2024; Black Bear Farms, 1137 County Road 20W, Kingsville, ON (519)733-6289; Colio Estate Winery, 1 Colio Drive (off Walker Rd) Harrow, ON (519) 738-2241; Colchester Ridge Estate Winery, 108 County Rd 50 Harrow, ON (519) 738-9800; Coopers Hawk Vineyards, 1425 Iler Rd RR 1, in Harrow, ON ( 519)738-4295; Erie Shore Vineyard, 410 County Rd 50 Harrow, ON (519) 738-9858; D’Angelo Estate Winery, 5141 Conc. 5, Amherstburg, ON (519) 736-7959; Mastronardi Estate Winery, 1193 Concession 3 East, Kingsville, ON (519) 733-WINE; Muscedere Vineyards, 7457 County Rd 18, RR#4 Harrow, ON (519) 796-9007; Pelee Island Winery, 455 Seacliff Drive, County Rd 20, Kingsville, ON (519) 733-6551; Smith and Wilson Estate Winery, RR#1 8368 Water St, Blenheim, ON (519) 676-5867; Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery, 7258 Cty Rd 50W Harrow, ON (3km east of Holiday Beach) (519) 738-9253; Viewpointe Estate Winery, 151 County Road 50 E., Harrow: 519.738.4718.

For further information contact Eadie Mastronardi eadie@mastronardiwines.com.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

TREO Restaurant To Host Wine Show November 11 As Part of Sylvania Downtown Delights

marco pece This Friday, November 11, will be one of the biggest shopping and dining events Downtown Sylvania has ever seen. Over 1,000 people will visit Main Street's shops and restaurants as part of this fall's Downtown Delights celebration.

TREO Restaurant and Wine Bar, 5703 Main St., Sylvania, (419) 882-2266, will host six local wine distributors, featuring over 40 wines, including reds, whites, and sparkling wines perfect for your holiday entertaining. Tecumseh's Boulevard Market, and Boe Barrios from Little Boe Sweets will be here sampling and selling their artisan cheeses, and delectable chocolate and cake treats. 

In addition to the wine event, Downtown Delights will feature sales, decorations, a grand opening for a new men's store.You won't want to miss this extraordinary evening.  The Downtown Delights event runs 5:00 to 9:00 PM and then TREO will offer entertainment in the One2 Lounge with the Delta style blues sounds of the Andrew Ellis Duo.  

For more information, please contact info@treosylvania.com or call 419-882-2266.

Photo by Marco Pece

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Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: November 9-12, 2011


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Wednesday, November 9
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Wines for “The Feast” 1. Lingenfelder “Hare Label” Gewurztraminer, 2. Alexander Valley Vineyards Pinot Noir, 3. Prima-Mano Primitivo, 4. Warres Warrior Porto Reserve. $7 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

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

Thursday, November 10
The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Wonderful French wines for under $20: 1. Gentil “Hugel” – Alsace, 2. Olivier Leffaive – Chardonnay – Puligny – Montrachet, Bourgogne; 3. Albert Bichot – Pinot Noir – Beaune, Bourgogne; 4. Roc De Lussac – Red Bordeaux – Lussac St. Emilion, Bordeaux. $4 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Wines for the Feast: 1. Monmousseau Vouvray, 2. Alfred Merkelbach Urziger Riesling Kabinett, 3. Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc, 4. Brutocao Sauvignon Blanc, 5. Fritz Windish Dornfelder, 6. Mossback Russian River Pinot Noir, 7. Piazzano Chianti, 8. Bell Claret. Nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 5-7 PM. Wines for the Feast, Part Two: 1. Fess Parker Viognier, 2. Montes “Cherub” Rosé of Syrah, 3. Noble Vines 446 Chardonnay, 4. Noble Vines 667 Pinot Noir. $2 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

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

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Special Guest Host Paige Parks from 55 Degrees. Wines that go well with Thanksgiving Dinner. 1. Mercer Gone Fishing Reisling  2010, 2. Mercer Chardonnay 2009, 3. Ramsay Pinot Noir 2008, 4. Anne Amie Cuvee "A" Pinot Noir 2009, 5. Valckenberg Dornfelder 2009. $1.50 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.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 5:00 - 8:00 PM. Holiday wine tasting.

Friday, November 11
* Special Event * TREO Wine Bar, 5703 Main St., Sylvania, (419) 882-2266. 6-9 PM, Downtown Delights wine show. Six local wine distributors, featuring over 40 wines, including reds, whites, and sparkling wines. Tecumseh's Boulevard Market, and Little Boe Sweets will be sampling and selling artisan cheeses, and chocolate and cake treats. Part of Downtown Sylvania special event.

Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Thanksgiving Rieslings: 1. Valckenberg Riesling, 2. Salm "Two Princes" Riesling, 3. Richter Estate Riesling, 4. Haus Auslese Riesling. $10 tasting.

Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. 4:00 - 7:00 PM. Holiday wine tasting.

Saturday, November 12
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Thanksgiving Rieslings: 1. Valckenberg Riesling, 2. Salm "Two Princes" Riesling, 3. Richter Estate Riesling, 4. Haus Auslese Riesling. $10 tasting.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Firelands – Ohio’s Best Winery. With Winery Special Guest. 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.

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6-9 PM Special wine tasting. 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, November 8, 2011

Ohio Winery Visit: Matus Winery


We planned a little Ohio weekend getaway so that we could visit several wineries on our drive between Toledo and Cleveland.

Our first stop was Matus Winery, located at 15674 Gore Orphanage Road in Wakeman. The winery is located on the 75-year-old farmland of the Matus Family. The large barn-like tasting structure has plenty of room to stretch out while you enjoy your wine.
Sylvia Miller was our host during our visit and was friendly and attentive, giving us a special tour of the tank room where we could see the winemaking in process.

The wine at Matus is non-vintage but most is made from grapes grown on the winery property. We were a bit disappointed to learn that the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon were not available. I had checked the wine list in advance and was counting on that duo as being two dry wines amidst moslyt sweeter selections. The Cabernet has been an award winner and the last bottling was exceptional, so it quickly sold out.

Sylvia set us up with some cheese and crackers and a couple of trays of samples. The samples are 50 cents each. We sampled the Chardonnay, Vidal and Niagara on the white side along with Moonlight. Moonlight is made from estate-grown Traminette, which is a close relative to Gewürztraminer. This was finished in a sweeter style and had a bit of pepper on the finish.


Wines were simple and mostly sweet. The Niagara was from Lake Erie grapes and was a good example of the easy drinking white that’s quite popular on hot summer days.

The reds had a couple nice surprises. The Sunset is a blend of Chambourcin, Frontenac, Foche, and Baco Noir grown at Matus. It is semi-dry (but drier than almost all the other wines offered). I don’t think I’ve ever had this combination of grapes before and I found it interesting with a bit of tartness.

Matus also offers Outback, which is a fruit wine made with elderberry and blackberry. Green Dragon wasn’t willing to taste this, but I thought this would be an ideal sipping wine for those blustery winter days that aren’t too far around the corner. Matus offers a pear wine as well.

We stopped in during the early afternoon but this looks like it is a lively place during the weekends, especially when there is a band. Matus has plenty of seating and a great fireplace room. Fridays at 5:30 PM they offer a dinner special and entertainment is scheduled on Fridays and Saturdays. There is a chili cook-off this weekend that looks like a lot of fun.

For those who like life (and their wine) on the sweet side and enjoy lively entertainment, Matus is a good choice.
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