Monday, April 30, 2012

Tukma 2008 Malbec Reserva, Salta


Wine Chick and Glorious T have already weighed in with their review of a Malbec for Malbec World Day (not to be confused with World Malbec Day!). Now its our turn.
I blundered across the fact that Malbec World Day was being celebrated a couple weeks ago and decided that would be a good excuse to uncork a Malbec. This selection is a little offbeat because it comes from the Salta region of Argentina, not Mendoza.
This is deep violet in color with a rich jammy bouquet. Swirling left long legs. It is medium to full body.
I was battling to not lose my tasting mojo because I had a jelly bean just a few minutes before we opened this wine. It was actually Green Dragon’s fault as she had a “decorative” centerpiece filled with jelly beans.
Once I got my palate back on track, I enjoyed the slightly wild taste accented with spice and oak. I enjoyed it more once it opened up in the glass and the pepper settled down to reveal nice red fruit. This is certainly an interesting Malbec. Upon sipping a day later (jelly bean free!), I found this even more tasteful and rippling with fruit.
This was a nice online score at only $10.
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Rating: 3.5 of 5                Value: 3 of 5
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Friday, April 27, 2012

Falling Star 2010 Malbec, Cuyo, Argentina


Wine Chick and Sax Man are always looking for a good deal when buying their favorite wines. Wine Chick was looking for an inexpensive Malbec and tends to choose new wines based on the label.
She discovered Falling Star 2010 Malbec, a deal at $5.99 that is every bit as sophisticated as the expensive options. It's robust palate ends with a smooth finish but has all the complexity that comes with the vintage. Great for dinner or to top of an evening!
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Thursday, April 26, 2012

2011 California Wine Shipments Within U.S. Reach All-Time High: U.S. Is World’s Largest Wine Market

From the California wine producer in the Centr...
From the California wine producer in the Central Coast (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Sales of California wine within the U.S. in 2011 grew to a record 211.9 million cases, up 5.6 percent in volume compared to the previous year. The estimated retail value of these shipments was $19.9 billion, according to wine industry consultant Jon Fredrikson of Gomberg, Fredrikson & Associates in Woodside. Global 2011 California wine sales to all markets in the U.S. and worldwide also increased 5.6 percent to 256.6 million cases.


"California’s vintners grew the wine market with creative, innovative offerings at all price points," said Wine Institute President and CEO Robert P. (Bobby) Koch. "Our wineries are in sync with consumer tastes and California wines have increasingly become a preferred lifestyle choice."

Wineries worldwide competed for consumer attention in the U.S. with thousands of brands—120,000 new wine labels were approved by the U.S. Tax and Trade Bureau last year. Wine sales expanded as Americans were treated to a diverse array of classic and new wine choices including Moscato, sweet reds and other easy-drinking wines with unpretentious packaging. Restaurant business recovered somewhat and value-oriented wines were still key for on-premise offerings. Many marketers focused on new opportunities in the direct-to-consumer channel as the number of states that now accept these shipments has expanded to 39, and apps and other technologies have made it easier for consumers to use these online options, according to Fredrikson.

"Wine consumers are adventuresome by nature so Muscat/Moscato became a popular new flavor to try, experiencing the largest varietal volume gain of the year," commented Danny Brager, vice president of client services for beverage alcohol at The Nielsen Company. The "millennial" consumer, aged 21-34 who make up 26 percent of legal drinking age Americans, continue to be a wine sales growth driver, while Baby Boomers continue to be the largest generations contributor to overall wine sales. Even with the volatile economy, consumers are finding high quality and value in the wine category, and continue to experiment with sweet reds, unoaked wines, wine blends, and other diverse offerings, he explained.

Total wine sales in the U.S. from all production sources—California, other U.S. states and foreign countries—climbed to a new record of 347.0 million cases, a 5.3 percent jump from 2010, with an estimated retail value of $32.5 billion, according to Fredrikson. Of the total, California’s 211.9 million cases held a 61 percent share of the U.S. market. This is the 18th consecutive year of volume growth in the U.S.

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Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: April 25-28, 2012



Wednesday, April 25
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Great Closeouts, and Bike to the Bay sign-up. 1. Lingenfelder Gewurztramine, 2. Yorkville Cellars Petit Verdot, 3. Yorkville Cellars Malbec, 4. Yorkville Cellars Cabernet Franc.  $8 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Blended Wines. $15.
Thursday, April 26

The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM.
Even More Great New Wines: 1. 2010 Vanesa – Viura/Verdejo – Spain, 2. 2005 Kiona – Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot – Washington State, 3. 2010 Goose Bump – Velvety Red – Italy, 4. 2009 Gysler – Riesling Kabinett – Germany. $4 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. New Wines For Spring: 1. Casal Garcia Vinho Verde, 2. Swanson Pinot Grigio Napa, 3. Luisa Friulano, 4. L’Ecole No.41 Chardonnay, 5. Catillo de monseran Garnacha, 6. Torii Mor Pinot Noir, 7. Lock & Key Meritage, 8. La Spinetta Ca’ di Pain Barbera d’Asti. Nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Blended Wines. $15. Come out and taste Jet's Pizza.
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, April 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. California Syrah vs. Australian Shiraz: 1. Box Car Syrah, 2. Woop Woop Shiraz, 3. Bonnie Doon Syrah Le Pousseur, 4. Fetish Playmates Shiraz. $15 tasting.
Saturday, April 28
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. California Syrah vs. Australian Shiraz: 1. Box Car Syrah, 2. Woop Woop Shiraz, 3. Bonnie Doon Syrah Le Pousseur, 4. Fetish Playmates Shiraz. $15 tasting.
The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. Springtime Whites. 1, Gazela Vinho Verde, 2. Minini Garagnega/Pinot Grigio, 3. Primal Roots White, 4. Lost Angel “Ruckus” White. $2 per flight or nominal fee per sample.
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12 – 5 PM. Nominal fee per sample.
Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. Wine Tasting. 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Special Guest – Adam Mahler of Ampelography. Adam Mahler’s Ampelography represents many of the finest small production wines around the world.  He’ll be on hand to guide us through some of his newest discoveries. Nominal fee per sample.

AREA WINE BARS
  • The Bistro at Maumee Wines, (419) 893-2525, 2556 Parkway Plaza, Maumee.
  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • 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, April 24, 2012

Wine ‘n Bloom Wine Weekends Set for Vines and Wines Trail in NE Ohio May 4-5 and 11-12

Garden with some tulips and narcissus
Garden with some tulips and narcissus (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The Vines and Wines wine trail in Northeastern Ohio is scheduling their annual Wine N Bloom Weekend event. You sample wines and collect flowers at the 16 participating wineries. This is a great way to ring in spring. The event is scheduled May 4-5 and 11-12. Tickets go quickly, so don't delay.

This is a self driving tour of the wineries in northeast Ohio. You have two weekends (4 days: Fridays & Saturdays, Noon to 6:00 PM each day) to visit all the wineries participating on the trail. Sample great wines, enjoy delicious appetizers, and you will pick up a gift item to help celebrate the glories of spring at each stop.At a designated winery you will receive and basket to collect your goodies in and a Schott Zwiesel crystal wine glass.

Tickets for this event are $50 for a couple and $40 for a single. You Must have advance reservations. Call 800-227-6972 or click here to make reservations.

Participating wineries are:
Bene Vino Urban Winery, Perry
Biscotti Family Winery, Conneaut
Buccia Vineyards, Conneaut
Debonné Vineyards, Madison
Deer's Leap Winery, Geneva
Emerine Estates, Jefferson
Ferrante Winery & Ristorante, Geneva
Grand River Cellars, Madison
Goddess Wine House, Ashtabula
Laleure Vineyards, Parkman
Maple Ridge Vineyards, Madison
Old Firehouse Winery, Geneva-on-the-Lake
Old Mill Winery, Geneva
St. Joseph Vineyard, Madison
The Winery at Spring Hill, Geneva
Virant Family Winery, Geneva

The are also special lodging deals in the area being offered for this special event.

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Monday, April 23, 2012

Antigal 2008 Malbec Uno, Mendoza


Wine Review by Glorious T
In celebration of World Malbec Day, we went to Cellar Tracker to make our pick. We're in luck, on hand is a 2008 Antigal Malbec Uno. I remember being attracted to the bottle because of the large copper "1" on the case which held the bottle (the bottle has the same emblem).
Fortunately, the wine lived up to the impressive packaging. It was so fragrant upon opening, big berry scents along with spice and oak. We savored the nose for a bit before taking the first sip. Big soft feel leads to slight tannins and oak, not overpowering.
It's well structured, finishes with a slight bitter coffee finish. At about $15, it's an excellent value that would be nice to bring to a party. Good, smooth feel makes this very drinkable. Cheers!
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Saturday, April 21, 2012

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant Schedules One Year Anniversary Event April 27


Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville, will offer a special one year anniversary celebration on Friday April 27 from 6:00 PM to midnight.

The event will feature live music from Distant CousinZ from 8:00 to 11:00 PM. There will be roaming beer and wine tasting with stations set up throughout the restaurant and patio.  

For the ticket price of $40 you receive six beer or wine samples as well as food pairings, snacks, live music, and drawings for gift certificates and other prizes.

The tasting stations will include white wine, red wine, imported wine and dessert wine. Your beer selection includes anything from the wide assortment of beers on tap.

If your tasting card is full, no problem. Enjoy an additional four samples of beer or wine only for $10. There is a full cash bar with anniversary drink specials all night.

Owner Joyce Franzblau says this is a thank you to all patrons for their generous support this past year.

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Friday, April 20, 2012

Michigan Wine Showcase Set April 30 at Rattlesnake Club In Detroit

Detroit, MI -- The Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council is sponsoring the "Michigan Wine Showcase" on Monday, April 30, at The Rattlesnake Club in Detroit. Master Sommeliers Madeline Triffon and Claudia Tyagi are closely involved with this project and are excited to celebrate Michigan Wine Month with this event.
Winemakers and winery owners will be on hand during this fabulous walk-around tasting to share their new release wines from the exceptional 2011 vintage. From 6:00 to 8:30 p.m., guests can sample from more than 100 wines and order their favorites from Plum Market, the event's retail partner. Rattlesnake Chef Chris Franz will prepare an array of lavish appetizers to complement the wide variety of artisan wines.
Enjoy a variety of wines from these Michigan wineries:
Bel Lago ~ Black Star Farms ~ Bowers Harbor Vineyards ~ Brengman Brothers ~ Brys Estate ~ Burgdorf's Winery ~ Chateau Chantal ~ Chateau Fontaine ~ Chateau Grand Traverse ~ Circa Estate ~ Fenn Valley ~ Forty-Five North ~ Good Harbor Vineyards ~ l.mawby/m.lawrence ~ Left Foot Charley ~ Peninsula Cellars ~ Round Barn Winery ~ Sandhill Crane Vineyards ~ Verterra ~ Wyncroft ~ and more!
Admission to the Showcase is $40 per person in advance, or $45 at the door. The Rattlesnake Club is located in Rivertown neighborhood, at 300 River Place Drive, in Detroit. For more information, and to purchase tickets online, visit www.michiganwines.com/showcase; or contact Karel Bush at bushk9@michigan.gov or 517-241-4468.
The Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council is pleased to highlight the event's tie-in with April as Michigan Wine Month, which honors the state's wide selection of quality wines and the wine industry's significant contribution to the economy. Michigan's 93 wineries welcome more than 1 million visitors to their tasting rooms each year, and Michigan's wine and grape industries contribute nearly $800 million to the state's economy annually.
The Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council is an 11-member panel that supports the growth of the grape and wine industry in Michigan. It is housed in the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development, which is the official state agency charged with serving, promoting and protecting the food, agriculture and agricultural economic interests of the people of the state of Michigan.
Photo by Andrew McFarlane


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Thursday, April 19, 2012

The Wineries of Santa Barbara County: Breathtaking Scenery and Spectacular Wine

We have only one regret from our recent winery tour of Santa Barbara County – it was over way too soon! The cool wine country towns, leisurely country drives and friendly, knowledgeable tasting room staff made it a trip to remember. And the wine was as spectacular as the splashing Pacific coast.
One hundred and nine wineries and vineyards were listed in our Santa Barbara winery booklet. We barely scratched the surface, visiting 11. The 11 we visited though, were certainly memorable.
There are plenty of nice towns, like Los
Olivos, Solvang or Santa Barbara, to serve as base camp for your visit to SBC. The wineries are top tier affairs, but without the crowds and, dare I say, attitude of Napa.
Below are links to the 11 wineries we visited. We know we’ll be back again soon to visit. I also want to share an indispensible resource, the website of the Santa Barbara County Vintners’ Association. You’ll be able to scope out all the wineries in advance plus get the latest on wine country events, lodging and eats.
Santa Barbara County, we miss you already!
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Tuesday, April 17, 2012

TREO Offers Bubbly Tasting And Appetizers April 17

Moet champagne and glass.
Moet champagne and glass. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
TREO Restaurant and Wine Bar, 5703 Main St., Sylvania, (419) 882-2266, is offering a “bubbly tasting” tonight (Tuesday, April 17) beginning at 6:00 PM. The event will feature five different sparkling wines from inside the Champagne region and around the world. The sophisticated evening will include accompanying hors d’oeuvres.

The cost is $25 per person. To RSVP or for more information, call (419) 882-2266 or contact info@treosylvania.com.
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Monday, April 16, 2012

Domaine Notre Dame des Pallieres 2009 Gigondas


This wine from the southern Rhone Valley is a Grenache and Syrah blend we recently enjoyed with dinner at the Bistro at Maumee Wines. It delivers the beauty of a Chateauneuf-du-Pape without the commensurate price tag.
The winery is named for an ancient church which was a haven in the Middle Ages for people seeking to avoid the plague. It was said to have a miraculous healing fountain.
Like most Old World wines, this wine is labeled with its geographic location and the winemaking authorities set strict guidelines for the wines that are produced there, including the grapes allowed. Grenache predominates this bottle, which also features Syrah. The Grenache provides soft and fruity notes while the Syrah adds earth and a full body.
The aroma was beautiful and the Gigondas proved its versatility by pairing well with an assortment of entrees (beef, lamb, chicken and scallops). Flavors included tart cherry and and rich red fruit. There was a smidge of earthiness and medium tannins. The finish lingered as we savored our wine and tried to figure out what islands lie to the east of Greenland on the map displayed on the wall near our table.
The Notre Dame Gigondas is a great French value, coming in at under $30, and offered a refreshing fountain of vino for our dinner.
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Saturday, April 14, 2012

Month-long Celebration Highlights California’s Sustainable Winegrowing and Winemaking

Wines from the California winery David Bruce W...

Wines from the California winery David Bruce Winery. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

SAN FRANCISCO — A new, month-long celebration, "California Wines: Down to Earth" shines a spotlight on sustainability. From "green wine trails" and Earth Day wine and food festivals to special eco-tours in the vineyard, California’s winemakers and winegrowers are offering a wide variety of fun, sustainably-focused festivities throughout the month of April, which can be found at www.discovercaliforniawines.com/d2e.

"Down to Earth" month events will be engaging and meaningful experiences that let wine lovers get down to earth—connecting to the land and the people who make the wines they enjoy in a manner that benefits the environment and the community.

“These experiences make April a great time to learn about our California wines and the environmentally and community-friendly practices used to grow and produce them,” said Robert P. (Bobby) Koch, president and CEO of Wine Institute. “More than two-thirds of California’s winegrape growers and winemakers have adopted our sustainable program and participation is increasing, making ours one of the most widely adopted in the wine world.”

Wine Institute created “California Wines: Down to Earth” month to highlight California’s leadership in environmentally and socially responsible winegrowing and winemaking practices—and the people and places behind them. The campaign—held the same month as Earth Day—is designed to inform and engage policy leaders, media, wine trade and consumers about the California wine community’s major commitment to environmental and community stewardship.

“Sustainability is a vital part of the long-term future of California wine which contributes to California’s economy, attracts 20 million tourists annually, generates 820,000 jobs nationwide of which 330,000 are in California, and allows vintners and growers to pass on their wineries and farms to future generations,” said Koch.

California is a world leader in sustainable winegrowing practices. The California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA) program has 1,700 wineries and vineyards that have evaluated the sustainability of their operations with CSWA’s Code of best practices—representing 70 percent of California’s wine acreage and 65 percent of the state’s wine shipments. Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing and other statewide and regional programs such as Fish Friendly Farming, Bay Area Green Business Program, Lodi Rules, Napa Green and Sustainability in Practice (SIP) play an important role in the California wine community’s efforts to produce high quality wine that is environmentally sound, economically feasible and socially equitable. To learn more, visit: www.discovercaliforniawines.com/d2e.

Friday, April 13, 2012

Bridlewood Estate Winery: Santa Barbara County Winery Visit


All good things come to an end. And so it was with our trip visiting wineries in Santa Barbara County. But we would go out with a bang, visiting Bridlewood Estate Winery, a picturesque winery with rockin’ vino.
Two things put Bridlewood on our list. First is the wine. A couple years ago I bought a bottle of very intriguing Viognier. The complex layers of flavor stuck with me and gave me the idea Bridlewood is making some very interesting wines. Second is the beautiful Mission-style winery building. The building and grounds certainly have the “wow factor.”
After two days and a dozen wineries, we wanted to finish with a winery that had some panache. Everything about Bridlewood is first class. The tasting room oozes quality and style and beautifully landscaped grounds beckon just beyond the doors.
We opened our tasting with a 2010 stainless steel finished Chardonnay that whet our whistle, but didn’t amaze. It was on to the 2009 Santa Barbara County Viognier Reserve. This was fresh, fresh, fresh with striking minerality and honeysuckle threads.
The 2009 SBC Pinot Noir was had leather and dark berry flavors and the 2009 Estate Zinfandel had a touch of spice and sweetness. Here my tasting notes get a bit jumbled – it either would go well with octopus or has a nickname Octopus… Hmmm…
Bridlewood has an awesome lineup of Syrah, some not available outside of the winery or their wine club. We kicked off a trio by sampling the 2007 Syrah Reserve. Their Syrah Reserve is designed to show off the best grapes of a vintage. This wine has soft tannins laced with jammy blackberry and plum. There are oak accents that end in a round satisfying finish.
We were a bit worn out by this point of the day and were about to pack it in, but thanks to “wine angels” Kim and Daffnee, the best tastings were yet to happen.
The 2007 Syrah Dusty Trails is a bold wine aged in toasted oak barrels. There is an awesome smoky quality that rolls across the velvety wine. Roasted meat and dark fruit highlight this vino that winds up with a soft, tart finish. Three cheers!
A fine wine indeed is the 2007 Syrah Six Gun. It offers rounded, subtle flavor notes of toast, dark chocolate and even bacon. This is a wine to unwind with and spend the evening decoding. It retails for $32, but was being offered to their wine club for only $16. This is a case-worthy wine.
Bridlewood is an iconic wine destination. In fact, it served as the starting location for this season’s Amazing Race television program. It was interesting to see contestants dashing through the vineyards. Luckily they didn’t’ cause any damage to the grapes!
The Bridlewood wine is outstanding too. This is a Santa Barbara County winery that has it all.
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Thursday, April 12, 2012

Pioneer Wine Trail Offers Michigan Wine Celebration April 21 and 22

Celebrate Michigan Wine Month at the Southeast Michigan Pioneer Wine Trail's "Michigan Wine Celebration" on Saturday, April 21 and Sunday, April 22. Each winery along the trail will feature an appetizer or dessert prepared by a local chef and paired with their featured wine. The ticket price also includes one tasting glass. A recipe card with the featured recipe will be given out to ticket holders at each winery.
Tickets for this self-driven tour with eight delicious food and wine pairings are $25.
The wineries included in this event are:
• Burgdorf's Winery (Haslett)
• Chateau Aeronautique Winery (Jackson)
• Cherry Creek Cellars Old Schoolhouse Winery (Brooklyn)
• J. Trees Cellars (Blissfield)
• Lone Oak Vineyard Estate (Grass Lake)
• Pentamere Winery (Tecumseh)
• Sandhill Crane Vineyards (Jackson)
• Sleeping Bear Winery & Brewpub (Parma)
Ticket holders are welcome to visit each location over the two-day event, or they may choose to limit their visits (as time permits). Hours of the event are 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM Saturday, April 21, and noon to 6:00 PM Sunday, April 22. 
Tickets are available online at www.PioneerWineTrail.com or from any Pioneer Wine Trail winery. There are a limited number of tickets available, ticket sales will end on Wednesday, April 18 at midnight, and tickets will not be available the day of the event. For more information call (517) 531-3080
Click Here For Tickets!
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Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: April 11-14, 2012



Wednesday, April 11
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. 1. Bieler Pere et Fils Provence Rose, 2. Ramey Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, 3. Allamand Malbec, 4. Allamand Cabernet Sauvignon. $9 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Folie à Deux Wines . $15.
Thursday, April 12

The Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Some Great New Wines: 1. 2011 Santa Christina – Umbria – Italy, 2. 2008 Fonteveccha – Verdicchio – Italy, 3. 2008 Domain Bott Geyl – Pinot d’ Alsace – Metiss – Alsace, France, 4. 2009 Chateau Marjosse – Red Bordeaux – Beaudeaux, France. $5 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Wines from Ridge Vineyards: 1. Ridge Three Valleys Zinfandel, 2. Ridge Ponzo Zinfandel, 3. Ridge York Creek Zinfandel, 4. Ridge Lytton Springs Zinfandel, 5. Ridge Pagani Ranch Zinfandel, 6. Ridge Merlot (maybe if it arrives), 7. Ridge Montebello Cabernet. Nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Folie à Deux Wines. $15. Come out and taste Jet's Pizza.
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, April 13
Special Event – Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion, 7:00 – 9:30 PM. Art of the Vine. Wine: Friends, Romans, Countrymen (GlasSalon), Tour: Italian Art. Sample four wines, light snacks, and enjoy a complimentary art tour at 7:00 or 8:00 PM. $15 members or $25 nonmembers. Tickets can be purchased at the TMA information desks; reservations are not required.
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 Zinfandel Tasting: 1. Pezzi King "Dry Creek" Zinfandel, 2. Predator "Lodi" Zinfandel, 3. Plungerhead "Dry Creek" Zinfandel, 4. Terra d'Oro "Deaver Vineyard" Zinfandel. $15 tasting.
Saturday, April 14
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 Zinfandel Tasting: 1. Pezzi King "Dry Creek" Zinfandel, 2. Predator "Lodi" Zinfandel, 3. Plungerhead "Dry Creek" Zinfandel, 4. Terra d'Oro "Deaver Vineyard" Zinfandel. $15 tasting.
The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. Wines from Vanguard Distributing with Special Guest Steve Wherry. 1. Charles & Charles Rose, 2. Pennywise Petite Sirah, 3. Orin Swift Saldo Zinfandel, 4. Orin Swift The Prisoner. $3.50 per flight or nominal fee per sample.
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12 – 5 PM. Nominal fee per sample.
Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. Wine Tasting. 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample.


AREA WINE BARS
  • The Bistro at Maumee Wines, (419) 893-2525, 2556 Parkway Plaza, Maumee.
  • Tres Belle Wine and Martini Lounge, (419) 874-4555, 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg (Levis Commons).
  • Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.
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Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Viu Manent 2009 Estate Reserve Malbec, Colchagua Valley

When thinking of Malbec, two things flutter to the top of mind: Argentina and jammy. I’ve had Malbecs from different regions, but none seems to hit the bull's-eye like Argentina. The Argentine Malbecs are smooth, bubbling with fruit and are available at great values. They have become the signature wine of the country.
Chile is also making a name in high quality, high value wines. The signature red for Chile is Carmenere and I haven’t had the opportunity to try a Chilean Malbec before. When Green Dragon and I made a stop at World Market in Avon, this Malbec caught my attention.
Viu Manent wines come from the Colchagua Valley region, about 80 miles southwest of Santiago. Located within the Rapel Valley sub-region, Colchagua Valley is closed by the Andes at the east end and opens up to the Coastal Range and the Pacific Ocean to the west. This results in an ideal microclimate with the full influence of the Pacific Ocean and fresh breezes from the Andes.
The Malbec Reserve is sourced from blocks with an average age of 40 to 50 years in San Carlos, Colchagua Valley. Beautiful deep violet in color, the wine is a bit of a surprise. First the tannins are strong and while it delivers some pleasing currant and blackberry flavor notes, it also has a bit of earth and bitter chocolate.
It took a while for this wine to grow on me, but it did. Green Dragon gave it a passing grade, but for me the bitter qualities were a turn off. This was a “what the heck” purchase since it cost only $6.
Rating: 2 of 5   Value: 3 of 5
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Monday, April 9, 2012

Cherished Friends of Ahava Wine Tasting At Toledo Club on April 26

A set up of Merlot wine tasting
A set up of Merlot wine tasting (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Cherished Friends of Ahava wine tasting will be held 6:00 to 8:00 PM April 26 at the Toledo Club, 235 14th St., Toledo. This fabulous event benefits the Cherished Friends of Ahava and its non-profit special guests program.

Through the program, more than 550 men and women undergoing cancer treatment have enjoyed a day of pampering and relaxation at the Ahava Spa and Wellness Center at no charge. The program caters to those who are newly diagnosed or currently in treatment for cancer.

Attendees can sample more than 50 wines, appetizers, and desserts. A silent auction is part of the fun. The cost is $45 per person and $55 per person for the reserve tasting. For tickets and details call (419) 241-5877.
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Saturday, April 7, 2012

Wine Tasting Set April 10 For Capers Restaurant



Capers Restaurant and Bar, 2038 S.Byrne Rd., Toledo, is having a wine tasting on Tuesday, April 10, at 6:30 PM. Tickets are $25. There will be 5 wines each paired with food, which will be served family style. They will be featuring wine from Row Eleven, Concannon, and Stratton Lummis. Here is a look at the menu.
  • Schlink Haus Riesling paired with Spinach and Grape Salad
  • Row Eleven Pinot Noir paired with Smoked Pork and Bleu Cheese
  • The Riddler paired with Bacon Mac and Cheese
  • Concannon Crimson and Clover paired with Steak, Artichoke and Black Pepper Pizza
The fifth wine and pairing has yet to be determined. Tickets are available at the door, or by calling ahead at (419) 389-9900. The restaurant is located at the corner of Heatherdowns and Byrne.

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Friday, April 6, 2012

‘Idol’ Competitor Casey James Named Headliner For 13th Annual Vintage Indiana

Casey James performing on the American Idol Li...
Casey James performing on the American Idol Live tour in Denver, CO on 8/23/2010 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
INDIANAPOLIS – Red-hot crossover country rocker Casey James – third-place finisher in Season 9 “American Idol” competition – will headline the 13th annual Vintage Indiana Wine & Food Festival on Saturday, June 2 at Military Park in Downtown Indianapolis.

On-line tickets for the popular day-long event are available now at www.VintageIndiana.com. Tickets are $22 for adults age 21 and over – a $3 savings over gate admission. Designated drivers’ tickets are $10; youth tickets for ages 6-20 are $5. Children 5 and under are free.

Hundreds of wines from more than two dozen Indiana wineries will be available for tasting. Participating wineries also will sell wines by the bottle and case.

Other festival attractions include live music performances featuring James, Mike Milligan and Steam Shovel, and Jennie DeVoe; cooking and wine pairing demonstrations; wide variety of food from several Indiana culinary experts including top area food trucks; eclectic arts & crafts showcase; the KidZone kids’ activities area, hot air balloon exhibit (weather permitting), and more.

Over 10,000 wine enthusiasts from throughout the Midwest are expected to attend.
James’ self-titled album debuted last week at No. 2 on the country charts, and No. 23 on The Billboard 200. The Cool, Texas native credits artists such as Merle Haggard, Vince Gill, ZZ Top, and Bonnie Raitt with shaping his style, with a mix of ‘70s rock, blues and outlaw country thrown in for good measure. He toured with Sugarland and played his own shows while working on the debut album. The first single released, “Let’s Don’t Call It a Night,” was co-written by James with Terry McBride and Brice Long.

We are very excited to add Casey James to our entertainment line-up,” said Jeanette Merritt, director of marketing for the Indiana Wine Grape Council. “He’s a huge musical presence right now, and should be a tremendous draw for the festival.”

Indianapolis’ brand new JW Marriott is this year’s Vintage Indiana host hotel. Located within easy walking distance of Military Park on the downtown’s near-westside at 10 South West Street, the luxurious JW is offering a special Vintage Indiana overnight package that includes two adult tickets to the festival plus great rates on room accommodations. For more information or reservations, follow the link provided at www.VintageIndiana.com.

Vintage Indiana is presented by the Indiana Wine Grape Council, headquartered on the Purdue University campus in West Lafayette. Included among event sponsors are WFMS & WJJK Radio, Indiana’s Family of Farmers, NUVO Newsweekly, Indiana Turkey, WISH-TV, the American Dairy Association of Indiana, WNDY-TV, and Marsh Supermarkets.

For additional information, log on at www.VintageIndiana.com, or call 1.800.832.WINE.
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Thursday, April 5, 2012

Koehler Winery: Santa Barbara County Winery Visit

Our rapid fire winery tour of Santa Barbara County was winding to a close. We had time for just two more stops. Of course, when you are on the Foxen Valley Wine Trail, you can hardly make a bad choice. It didn’t take long to realize that Koehler was an excellent one.
The 100-acre estate in the Santa Ynez Valley has some of the best grapes in the region. While the surrounding areas might have 15-year old vines, Koehler boasts vines that are 30 and 40 years old. From start to finish, Koehler offered perhaps the strongest lineups of wines we tasted on our trip in which we visited more than 10 wineries.
We opened with the 2010 Sauvignon Blanc, which we rated as great. It featured playful  citrus notes with racy acidity. The ‘09 Chardonnay was also a tasty wine and has won its share of awards. For us, the reds were the main attraction.
Leading the reds was the 2008 Grenache. It’s a rich, easy-drinking wine with aromas of red berries and a dash of oak. The Red Quartette is a blend of 50% Sangiovese, 26% Grenache, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and a 4% dollop of Cabernet Franc. It’s a nice value at $22.
Perhaps the star of the afternoon was the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon. Cleve, a member of our tasting troupe, said that he could spend the whole night with this wine. It is full-bodied with blackberry jam flavors.
We circled back for some more white, discovering their beautiful 2009 Viognier and a superb 2009 Chardonnay Reserve.
If we had no more wine, we would have been satisfied and considered Koehler an amazing boutique winery (they produce about 6,000 cases a year). But the vino kept coming and kept amazing our team.
The 2007 Magia Nera is a nice, rich blend of 65% Sangiovese and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon with sour cherry highlights.
The 2007 Estate Syrah is a statement wine: Look at what we can do!  This is a wine that could be cellared for a decade, but is ready to drink now with tasteful layers of plum, spice and earth. For only $30.
Rich, chocolaty and bold is how we describe the 2007 Cabernet Reserve, which sells for $55. With swirls of raspberry flavors, this is a wine that will satisfy for years to come.
The goal at Koehler is to produce premium wines at affordable prices and they are succeeding. In fact, these wines made such an impression on Cleve and cousin Mary that they joined the Koehler wine club.
As a wrap-up to a fine day of tasting, we toured the grounds of Koehler, which has picturesque picnic area and some happy goats in the surrounding fields.
Koehler was a highlight on our wine caravan and is certain to be a high point for you as well.
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