Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Rappahannock Cellars 2010 Cabernet Franc Reserve, Virginia

So this is what all the fuss is about!

Last summer when we attended the North American Wine Bloggers Conference in Charlottesville, we had a chance to sample a wide variety of Virginia wine. No doubt about it, Virginia is on the move and making its name as a wine destination.

Most of the focus was on the “state grape,” Viognier. While good, it never sent quivers up my spine.

Virginia has also gained a reputation for classy Cabernet Franc, of which we’re big fans. We were able to review the 2009 Rappahannock Cellars Glenway Vineyard Cab Franc and it was tasty indeed. But our story concluded with the comment that the Finger Lakes and Ontario remained kings of Cab Franc. The latest reserve Cab Franc from Rappahannock Cellars may cause me – and many others -- to change views.

The 2010 Rappahannock Reserve Cab Franc is simply as good as it gets. Made with 90% Cab Franc grapes from the Indian Springs Vineyard and 10% Merlot, it offers a deep ruby red color and an aroma of concentrated cherry and black fruit. On the palate this is an elegant symphony of flavors with black cherry and raspberry interlaced with black pepper. The medium to full body completes the package with a finish that has significant “hang time.” It retails for $36 but I understand it is only available through the wine club.

We dig Cab Franc because its edgier than Cabernet Sauvignon. To be a good Cab Franc, the wine must embrace its “Cab Franc-ness” and this surely does. This is Cab Franc of the highest quality and one of the best Cab Francs we have experienced.

Full disclosure: We received this as a marketing sample.

Rating: 5 of 5  Value: 5 of 5
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Monday, July 30, 2012

Salmon Run 2006 Meritage, New York


When Wine Chick and Sax Man, members of the tasting team, (sadly) prepared to move from their house next door we decided to pop open a bottle from their favorite winery.

Dr. Konstantin Frank Vinifera Wine Cellars on Keuka Lake is a premier Finger Lakes winery. Salmon Run is their value brand and is know for delivering outstanding wine for a great price. .

Our selection was the Salmon Run 2006 Meritage. Meritage is the American version of a Bordeaux blend, featuring primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Salmon Run mainly uses Finger Lakes grapes, but sometimes casts their net wider depending on harvest conditions. For the 2006 vintage some grapes from outside the Finger Lakes, but within New York, were used. This bottle cost $14.

The Salmon Run is light red in color with a smooth texture. The scrumptious flavor is of fruit and dried cranberry a bit on the restrained side. The low alcohol content (12%) adds to the lightness of the wine. The tannins were dialed back.

This wine makes the idea of “swimming with the fishes” a positive thing! Any wine under the Dr. Frank banner is a very good bet to deliver on quality and value.

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Rating: 2.5 of 5  Value: 3 of 5
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Saturday, July 28, 2012

Food Trucks Featured at Vintage Ohio August 3 and 4

Vintage Ohio, the state’s premier wine event, will take place August 3 and 4, from 1:00 to 10:00 PM at Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road in Kirtland, Ohio. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the gate. Ticket includes entry to the festival, a souvenir wine glass and wine samples.
Advance tickets and info are available on the web at www.OhioWines.org or www.VisitVintageOhio.com, by calling (800) 227-6972. Two-day taster tickets are available for $45.Foodie tickets and designated drivers are $12 and include admission to the festival and up to 5 non-alcoholic beverages. Children age 3-17 are $3. Children two and under are free.
And again this year Vintage Ohio will showcase the best of the best of the Cleveland food trucks.
Across America, in the 'Locavore' world and in 'Foodie' culture, mobile food trucks are all the rage. Cleveland has some of the best in the nation sharing their cuisine daily on the streets. As the national web site describes them: Food trucks offer "high end food for the masses at drive-through prices."
They will be stationed near the Meet the WineMaker Pavilion, where exceptional Ohio-grown vintages will be shared by the winemakers who vinified those award winning wines. The MTW Pavilion and the fabulous Food Trucks will provide a perfect opportunity to match locally grown foods with locally grown wines.
The menus:
JiBARO: Oysters with dates, pickled carrots, bacon and sunflower seeds; Shrimp ceviche with mango, Caribbean bruschetta: shredded beef on top of plantain, Pulled pork burrito, Veggie-gluten free burrito, Jamaican jerk chicken.  
Umami Moto: Fish tacos: curry marinated fish, corn tortillas, cilantro, mint, cucumber, red onion and aioli; Umami burger: lean beef, brioche bun, onion, homemade hot sauce, Vietnamese grilled pork over rice, Asian slaw: cabbage, peppers, carrots, dressing; Fresh fruit cup including seasonal Asian pears, lychee, jackfruit.
Zydeco Bistro: Pullet and Andouille jambalaya, fresh chicken, sautéed sausage and dirty rice; Blue crab, heirloom tomato and Ohio corn salad; Crispy rock shrimp salad with creole mustard, Summer vegetable ratatouille and cheesy polenta.
OHIO GROWN WINES NEARBY IN THE MEET THE WINEMAKER PAVILION
[These limited production wines will not be poured in the individual winery tents on Festival Field, but will be available only in the MTW Pavilion and for to-go sales in the store]
Breitenbach Wine Cellars, Dover:
  • Gewurztraminer, Lake Erie, 2010 -- off dry white, well balanced, spicy nose
  • Cabernet Sauvignon. Lake Erie, 2010 -- nicely balanced, very fruit forward
Debonne' Vineyards, Madison:
  • Pinot Grigio, Grand River Valley, 2010 -- dry white, aromas of fresh apricot, dired flowers and spice
Ferrante Winery and Ristorante, Geneva/Harpersfield:
  • Golden Bunches, Riesling Grand River Valley 2011 -- off dry, flavors of peach and citrus
  • Pinot Grigio, Grand River Valley, 2011 -- melon and citrus with a creamy finish
Grand River Cellars, Madison:
  • Cabernet Franc, Grand River Valley, 2010 -- dry with a hint of spice, tobacco and blackberries, oaky finish
Klingshirn Winery, Avon Lake:
  • Cabernet Franc, Lake Erie -- aromas of wild cherries and blackberries hint of tannins
  • Vidal Blanc, Lake Erie -- semi dry, aromas of tangelos, hint of citrus, fruity and fresh finish
Maize Valley Winery, Hartville:
  • LaCrescent, Ohio -- fruity, tropical aromas and flavors form the Hartville vineyard, semi sweet, cold climate Sevsen varietal
St. Joseph Vineyard, Madison:
  • Pinot Noir Reserve, Grand River Valley, 2009, intense red, black cherries and plum flavors, bouquet of cedar and cloves with a hint of rose
  • Shiraz, Grand River Valley, 2009, Rhone style red with blueberry, cloves and peppery flavors
Valley Vineyards, Morrow:
  • Cabernet Sauvignon, Ohio River Valley, 2010, black cherries, black currents, violet, cocoa, velvety tannins
  • Ice Wine, Ohio River Valley, 2009: sweet, luscious, dessert wine
Meet the Wine Maker VIP tickets are an additional $15 and will feature only vinifera and French hybrid wines which are in short supply and thus cannot be poured on Festival Field.
For information on dining, lodging and attractions in Lake County, go to www.lakevisit.com
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Friday, July 27, 2012

Dry Creek Vineyard 2011 Dry Chenin Blanc, Clarksburg


Chenin Blanc is a white grape with its origin in the Loire Valley of France. This versatile grape is high in acidity, allowing it to be finished in a range of styles from sparkling wine to sweet dessert wines. In the Vouvray region of the Loire it produces one of my favorite wines, slightly off-dry with a frizzante touch of bubbles.
For most of its time in the US, it was grown and blended in mass consumption jug wines. At the end of the last century winemakers in California’s Clarksburg AVA decided to make quality varietal Chenin Blanc a specialty. Since its founding in 1972, Dry Creek Vineyard has produced Chenin Blanc.
The 2011 DCV Chenin Blanc is ripe with a touch of sweetness. There is a lush tropical bouquet and on the palate there are rounded flavor notes of apple and citrus.
This is a wine for all occasions. Its food-friendly character earned it a place at the table. It’s also suitable for a beat-the-heat patio sipper or an aperitif or after dinner drink.
The alcohol level at 12.5% is lower than beefy California reds which edge near 15%. The sweetness is 0.6% residual sugar, which is dry with a spritz of sugar. That will make it popular with a wide spectrum of your guests. This wine also has the potential to age for three to five years, which is rare for a white wine.
Have you tired of tangoing with Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay? This bottle is a chance to enjoy some quality California Chenin Blanc at a very reasonable $12 price tag.
Full disclosure: This wine was received as a marketing sample.

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Rating: 3 of 5 Value: 3.5 of 5
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Thursday, July 26, 2012

Rabbit Ridge 2008 Barrel Cuvee Zinfandel, Central Coast


I picked up this 2008 Rabbit Ridge Zin for our July 4th celebration. As it turns out it was very hot and the crowd was more beer than wine that evening. The Rabbit went back into its hole until re-emerging for a get together with neighbors several days later.
Rabbit Ridge Winery takes its name from founder and winemaker Erich Russell, a world class runner in college. The winery began in Sonoma County in 1981. Russell’s commitment to producing high quality wines at affordable prices later led him to Paso Robles where he opened a state-of-the-art winery in 2003.
Barrel Cuvee is the Rabbit Ridge label for their everyday, approachable wine. Even so, it is made with some prime estate grown grapes. They have a reserve label and a Paso Robles label as well with higher prices, but I nabbed this bottle for about $10.
This packs a double rabbit punch of taste plus value. The nose of currant leads into the complementary taste, which is smoky with rich flavors of blackberry and currant. There is a complex ripple of pepper to add to the enjoyment.
Rabbit Ridge has hopped to the front of the QPR (Quality Price Ratio) race with their Barrel Cuvee Zin.
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Rating: 3.5 of 5  Value: 5 of 5
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Wednesday, July 25, 2012

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

Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Franc (Photo credit: Southern Foodways Alliance)
Wednesday, July 25
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Closeouts: 1. Hey Mambo Chardonnay, 2. Chateau des Tourtes Cotes de Bordeaux, 3. Odoardi Savuto, 4. Rosenblum Eagle Point Zinfandel. $7 flight or nominal fee per sample.
Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. A night with Norm Heineman of Bowling Green Beverage. Come out and taste New vs. Old World Wines. $15.
Thursday, July 26

Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Fun Summer Bubbles: 1. Francois Montand – Brut – France, 2. St. Julian – Raspberry Spumante – Paw Paw, Michigan USA, 3. Castello del Poggio – Rosato – Italy, 4. Contero – Moscato D’ Asti – Italy. Flight $4.50 or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM.Piedmont Dolcetto and Barbera: 1. Voerzio Lange Arneis, 2. Pecchenino San Luigi Dolcetto, 3. Frantelli Revello Docetto d’Alba, 4. Alessandria Dolcetto d’Alba, 5. Stroppiana Barbera d’Alba, 6. Renato Corino Barbera d’Alba, 7. La Spinetta Ca’Di Pian Barbera d’Asti, 8. Contero Brachetto d’Acqui. Nominal fee per sample.
Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. New vs. Old World 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, July 27
Special Event – Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion, 7:00 – 9:30 PM. Art of the Vine. Wine: Color Play (visual feast), Tour: Jules Olitski Exhibition . 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. Italian Wines: 1. Rodano Poggialupi Toscana, 2. Poggio Amorelli Chianti Classico, 3. La Tanuta Brunello di Montalcino, 4. Stella Rosa Rosso. $15 tasting.
Saturday, July 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. Italian Wines: 1. Rodano Poggialupi Toscana, 2. Poggio Amorelli Chianti Classico, 3. La Tanuta Brunello di Montalcino, 4. Stella Rosa Rosso. $15 tasting.
The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. One is a Cabernet but not a Sauvignon; the other is a Sauvignon, but not a Cabernet … what are they? 1. Corvidae “The Keeper” Cabernet Franc, 2. Pilliteri Cabernet Franc, 3. Bogle Sauvignon Blanc, 4. Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc. Flight $3 or nominal fee per sample.
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:30 – 5:00 PM. 2nd Annual Oyster Blast: Few things in this world taste better than raw oysters and beautiful dry wines like Muscadet and Albarino. Chef Bill Kolhoff is going to be on the patio shucking oysters and Austin Beeman will be pouring delicious wine by the glass. For the carnivores among you, we will also have grilled sausages. Call for more information.
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, July 24, 2012

Winemakers Randall Grahm and Elizabeth Clark Set To Visit Toledo Area

Mark your calendars. The Toledo area will be hosting a pair of top-flight winemakers in August including a stellar California wine personality and a maker of premium wines from Willamette Valley, Oregon.
Randall Grahm of Boony Doon Vineyards
On Sunday, August 5, from 12:00 noon until 3:00 PM, Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000, will host an Afternoon with Randall Grahm of Bonny Doon Vineyards. This will be a wine tasting on the patio and no reservation is needed.
“Randall Grahm is the most important California wine personality to ever visit Northwest Ohio,” said WCM Wine Manager Austin Beeman. He urges wine lovers not to miss the opportunity to meet this iconic winemaker.
Bonny Doon is a winery based in the city of Santa Cruz in the central coast of California. It was started by Grahm in 1983. Bonny Doon was among the first Californian wineries to embrace Rhone varietals, giving Randall Grahm the nickname "The Rhone Ranger.”
Grahm has an impressive array of awards including the James Beard Award as wine professional of the year and Cooks Magazine lifetime achievement award. He is a leader in biodynamic winemaking and in the screw cap movement to use twist closures to ensure quality wine.
Elizabeth Clark of Airlie Winery
On Wednesday August 8, 6:00 – 8:00 PM, winemaker Elizabeth Clark of Airlie Winery, Monmouth, Oregon, will be presenting a selection of her wines at The Oliver House Market, 27 Broadway in Toledo. Airlie Winery, established in 1986, is dedicated to vintage dated Oregon premium wines. The winery overlooks Dunn Forest Vineyard and produces estate varieties well suited to the coastal edge of Oregon’s Willamette Valley.
Thirty-two acres of estate vineyards consist of eight varieties: Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Riesling, Müller Thurgau, Gewürztraminer, Maréchal Foch, and Muscat Ottonel.Their wines also benefit from grapes selected from top Willamette Valley vineyards.
The cost is $15 per person and will include elegant appetizers, great wines, and a chance to purchase autographed bottles of your favorite selections. For further information, call Matt Snyder at (419) 351-3335.
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Monday, July 23, 2012

Oregon Wine Country: Behind Every Bottle A Place And A Face

Portland, Oregon, will host the 5th Annual Wine Bloggers Conference August 17-19. Once again a tasting team from Toledo Wines and Vines will be there to visit wineries, sample new wines and report on the festivities. Here a brief snapshot of the wonderful wine region of Oregon.

In 1979 at a Paris tasting with entries from more than 330 countries, the 1975 Eyrie Pinot Noir took a top 10 finish. In a follow-up match the next year, it came in second place – and less than a point behind – the 1959 Drouhin Chambolie-Musigny. This was an astounding international achievement. Since that time Pinot Noir has been Oregon’s flagship wine.

Although there is much more than Pinot Noir in Oregon, it certainly is king. There are 12,560 acres of Pinot Noir planted in Oregon, more than four times the amount of the second most popular grape (which is Oregon’s “other Pinot,” Pinot Gris). Lesser amounts of Chardonnay, Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon are also planted.

Oregon’s Pinot Gris is often been compared to that made in Alsace. It is medium-bodied, yellow to copper in color, crisp with full fruit flavors.

Countless millennia of volcanic eruptions and cataclysmic glacial action have blessed Oregon with some of the finest soil on earth. The rugged, alluring terrain attracts adventurous winegrowers who create artisan wines featuring fresh fruit flavors and lively acidity.

The vineyards are planted in small pockets to take advantage of the best micro-climates. There are enough of these pockets to make Oregon the fourth largest producer of wine in the U.S.

Oregon has 16 American Viticultural Areas (AVA): Columbia Valley, Umpqua Valley, Walla Walla Valley, Willamette Valley, Rogue Valley, Applegate Valley, Columbia Gorge, Dundee Hills, Yamhill-Carlton District, Southern Oregon, McMinnville, Ribbon Ridge, Red Hill Douglas County, Eola-Amity Hills, Chehalem Mountains, and Snake River Valley.

The Columbia Gorge and Walla Walla Valley include parts of Washington State while the Snake River Valley is principally in Idaho.

The three main wine regions are:

Willamette Valley: Located just south of Portland and home to approximately 70 percent of Oregon’s wineries.  It is the largest and most important region. This fertile river valley produces primarily Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Riesling.

Umpqua Valley: Located in the southwestern area of Oregon. It is the site of Oregon’s first winery, Hillcrest Vineyard. The warm climate here produces outstanding red wines including Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon. Also produced are Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc.

Rogue Valley: Located in the southern part of the state just above the California border. The warm weather is well suited to growing red grapes such as Merlot. Also produced are Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Semillon.

The wines of Oregon are impressive and food-friendly. Unlike some other states, if a grape variety is named on the label of an Oregon wine, 90 percent of that wine must be made from that variety. Other states require only 75 percent. (One exception to this rule is Cabernet Sauvignon, which only needs to contain 75 percent.)

Oregon offers a diverse and bountiful landscape with handcrafted, exquisite wines.

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Saturday, July 21, 2012

Mount Veeder 2006 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon


Mount Veeder in California must be a magical place. Like the idyllic Hidden Valley ranch dressing commercials where there are rainbows and smiling children are singing songs as they eat large bowls of vegetables. Except with wine. Yes, definitely wine.
The Mount Veeder AVA in Napa takes its name from a 2,677-foot volcanic peak that crowns the Mayacamas range, which runs between Napa and Sonoma. The steep slopes require that the grapes be picked by hand.
There is something special about Mount Veeder and its rugged, wonderful wines.
We recently enjoyed this bottle from Mount Veeder Winery opened by Ace of Bass and Glorious T. The bouquet is rich with blackberry and dark cherry. The tannins are soft and smooth yet lend structure.
A delight to the senses, the Mount Veeder cab unfurls a riff of dark berries and mocha that is dabbed with smokiness and mountain character. The medium bodied wine has a lingering savory finish that urges you to fill the glass yet again.
If you can find this vintage (one of Napa’s best), it will cost about $39. That is still less than some Mount Veeder Winery cabs and reserve wines which top out at more than $100.
Things are good at the mountain top!
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Rating: 4 of 5  Value: 3 of 5
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Friday, July 20, 2012

Uncork the Uplands Showcase of Indiana’s Top Wines & Food Scheduled Saturday July 21




This year’s Uncork the Uplands will feature the finest selections from the award-winning wines and food cultivated exclusively from the south-central region of Indiana known as the Uplands Wine Region. This exciting epicurean event will entice and elevate the senses for both the connoisseur and the novice and will be an exquisite – and educational – experience for everyone in attendance.
Saturday’s event kicks off at 5:00 p.m. guests will enjoy special Indiana food and wine pairings and culinary presentations by our guest Daniel Orr, the internationally renowned chef and creator/proprietor of FARMbloomington. There will also be a Wine Mixology session with Lauren Smith of Fireside Bar & Grill.
The celebration will feature over 20 pairing stations of the Indiana Upland Trail’s first-rate wines and regional foods, featuring Mr. Orr as special guest.
Saturday’s festivities include:
5-10 p.m.: Indiana Wine and Food Tasting and music Josh Glauber, Stephen McWhirter, Holly Jackson, and Mike Turner.
6:30 p.m.: Chef Orr Cooking Presentation #1
7:15 p.m.: Book Signing with Chef Orr
8:00 p.m.: Chef Orr Cooking Presentation #2
8:30 pm.: Mixology session with Lauren Smith of the Fireside Grill
9:00 p.m.: Book Signing with Chef Orr
Uncork the Uplands is sponsored by: Monarch Beverage Company, Glazer’s Olinger Indiana, VESTA @ Ivy Tech, French Lick West Baden CVB, VisitBloomington.com, Sunnyside of Louisville, Innovative Labeling Solutions, Lawrence County CVB, Indy International Wine Competition, The Indiana Wine Grape Council, FARMBloomington and Huber’s Orchard and Winery. A portion of the evening’s proceeds will go toward Ivy Tech of Southern Indiana’s Viticulture Enology Science & Technology Alliance (VESTA) and TheFARM Fund raising future culinarians at Ivy Tech in Bloomington, Indiana
The event will be held at Huber’s Orchard, Winery & Vineyards, located at 19816 Huber Road in Starlight, Indiana. Tickets are available online until July 20, 2011 11:59 p.m EST. the cost is $75. For additional event information visit http://www.uncorktheuplands.com.
The Indiana Uplands Wine Trail is nestled among the rolling hills of Southern Indiana and showcases nine wineries ̶ Best Vineyards Winery, Brown County Winery, Butler Winery, Carousel Winery, French Lick Winery, Huber Winery, Oliver Winery, Turtle Run Winery, and Winzerwald Winery ̶ each proudly coupling high quality wines with a wonderfully unique epicurean experience. For more information visit  http://indianauplands.com/, on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/IndianaUplands and Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/IUWT.
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Thursday, July 19, 2012

Galen Glen 2008 Stone Cellar Riesling, Pennsylvania


My brother Tom and his wife Helen stopped by our house during a recent cross-country road trip. They were on their way back from Red Rocks in Colorado where they saw the String Cheese Incident in concert. It was obvious they were parched and tired after hours on the road.

Ever the congenial host, I asked if he would like a glass of water or lemonade, to which he responded, “What’s the matter – don’t you have wine?” Well of course I did.

The day was blisteringly hot and one of the few whites I had chilled down was this bottle of 2008 Galen Glen Stone Cellar Riesling. Since this is the Summer of Riesling, I gladly uncorked it and poured a couple of nicely chilled glasses.

Having tried very few Pennsylvania wines, I was befuddled in a pleasant way. This was very tasty Riesling! The wine has a mouthwatering acidity (and that’s very good). On the palate there is pronounced minerality and orange peel and citrus flavor notes. I would term this as off dry and a good partner for seafood and chicken.

Galen Glen is located in the Eastern Pennsylvania about 20 minutes from Jim Thorpe (the town, not the person) in Andreas. They are part of the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail and have won a number of awards for their wines.

The wine retails for $14 and is a sound choice for a refreshing regional Riesling.

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Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: July 18-21, 2012

Ripe Sauvignon blanc grapes.
Ripe Sauvignon blanc grapes. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Wednesday, July 18
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. 1. Domaine de Sainte Rose Coquille D’Oc, 2. Poppy Hill Cabernet Sauvignon, 3. Sosabe Tabanka Red, 4. Niepoort Tawny Porto. $8 or nominal fee per sample.
Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Leese Fitch Wines. $15.
Thursday, July 19

Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. The World of Unfamiliar Wines II: 1. 2010 La Caplana – Gavi – Cortese – Italy, 2. 2010 Jovly – Vouvray – Chenin Blanc – France, 3. 2011 Marramiero Da Ma – Montipuciano Rose’ – Italy, 4. 2010 Georges Duboeuf – Morgon – Gamay – France. Flight $5.50 or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Fresh wines for the summertime and big grillin’ wines: 1. HD Riesling, 2. Migration Chardonnay, 3. Honig Sauvignon Blanc, 4. Victor Hugo Hunchback, 5. Terra d’Oro Zinfandel, 6. The Show Grenache, 7. Mollydooker Blue Eyed Boy, 8. Alfred Merkelback Edener Trepchen Riesling Auslese. Nominal fee per sample.
Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Leese Fitch 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, July 20
Special Event – Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion, 7:00 – 9:30 PM. Art of the Vine. Wine: Surfing USA (California coast wines), Tour: Water, Water Everywhere. 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. Sauvignon Blancs: 1. Chateau Baron du Luze White Bordeaux, 2. Paul Thomas Sancerre, 3. Ferarri Carano Fume Blanc, 4. Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc. $15 tasting.
Saturday, July 21
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Sauvignon Blancs: 1. Chateau Baron du Luze White Bordeaux, 2. Paul Thomas Sancerre, 3. Ferarri Carano Fume Blanc, 4. Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc. $15 tasting.
The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. Angeline Wines from California. The new line of Angeline wines is composed of an array of varietals sourced from renowned California wine regions like Russian River Valley, and other notable appellations within Sonoma County; as well as Napa Valley, Mendocino County, Santa Barbara County and the Paso Robles and Santa Maria Valley wine regions. 1. Angeline Chardonnay Reserve, 2. Angeline Merlot Reserve, 3. Angeline California Pinot Noir, 4. Angeline Pinot Noir Reserve. Flight $2.25 or nominal fee per sample.
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:30 – 5:00 PM. 2009 Bordeaux & 2010 Rhone : Value Edition. Two of France’s “Best Ever” vintages are hitting the store at the same time. For many vineyards, these are the best their wines have ever been. This tasting is going to feature some of the best values (under $25) that these stellar vintages produced. Depending on turn-out, we might crack open a couple “bonus wines” from among the premium bottles as well. Nominal fee per tasting.
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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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
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Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Taking A Sip From The Top Five “Unexpected” Wine Regions

Have a taste for something different? Try These tips courtesy of Charlotte Chipperfield. She is the founder and wine educator of The Wine Key. Charlotte has over 10 years experience in the wine and hospitality industries

1. Istria, Croatia
Matosevic Winery in Istria is the longest standing vineyard in its area. The peninsula where the vineyard is located is the largest along the Adriatic Sea. The climate is ideal for growing Malvasia, the most widely planted white grape in the region. 
To Sip: Alba Antica 2008, a barrel-fermented Malvasia Istiana, nutty and perfumed with the acacia wood in which it’s aged ($20).

2. Guerouanne, Morocco
Within the five wine-producing regions of Morocco, there are 14 recognized appellations. Guerouanne, in the Meknes region, near the city of Fez, has an ideal climate for growing grapes, with cool winters, hot summers and nights that always dip down no matter what the daytime temperature is. The locals say wine has been produced here for some 2,000 years. The red grape Cinsault thrives in Morocco, accounting for 40% of vineyard plantations.
To Sip: Fresh and fruity Les Trois Domaines 2010 Guerrouane Rouge, filled with red berry flavors and just a hint of hot-weather spice ($11).

3. Virginia
Yes, all 50 states make wine. But that doesn’t mean all 50 states produce good wine. The number of wineries producing decent bottles in Virginia, for one, is on the rise. The state has produced wine since the country was founded. Most recently, a wine that has been worth writing about is Barboursville Vineyards’ Octagon, which has earned praise from critics far and wide.
To Sip: Barboursville Vineyards 2006 Octagon, a blend of Merlot, Cabernets Franc and Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot has such great body and balance, it could pass for a stylish Bordeaux ($40).

4. Montevideo, Uruguay
Chances are you’ve never had a wine from Uruguay, the fourth largest wine producer in South America. Winemakers there push Tannat the way Argentineans push Malbec, but the grape is still largely unknown in the U.S. Its climate is said to approximate that of Bordeaux more than any other South American country. And, being a New World region, it’s not beholden to any grapes in particular.
To Sip: Viñedo de los Vientos 2004 Angel’s Cuvée, a blend of Chardonnay, Trebbiano Romagnolo and Viognier, redolent of dandelion and marzipan, with a hint of sherry-like oxidation ($15).

5. Sopron, Hungary
Hungary isn’t exactly an emerging wine region, per se. The Tokaj area is famous for its late-harvest dessert wines. Sopron, on the other hand, is known for elegant reds, in particular those made from the Kékfrankos grape (a.k.a. Blaufränkisch). It’s one of the few regions in Hungary that specialize in red wine. While many wines from Hungary – and from emerging regions as a whole – tend to be made in the “international” style, tasting as though they could be made anywhere. Sisters Birgit and Katrin Pfneiszl are currently transitioning to organic farming.
To Sip: Their earthy Pfneiszl Kékfrankos 2009, an Old World-style wine with a wild, rustic persona ($16).
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Monday, July 16, 2012

Dry Creek Vineyard 2011 Sonoma County Fumé Blanc

Dry Creek Vineyard’s Fumé Blanc is the wine that first parted the curtain and showed me that Sauvignon Blanc can be a gratifying vino. Back in the mists of time, I tried a bottle of Fumé Blanc (I’m sure I didn’t know what grape it was then) and was pleasantly surprised.

The wine, at the heart and soul of the DCV winery, has been produced since 1972. It is styled after the classic wines from the Loire Valley in France.

This Fumé Blanc is stainless steel fermented with a crisp and juicy style that is ready to “pop and pour” or more accurately, twist and taste. That’s one of the beauties of this wine. You won’t be scratching your head and doing scholarly research to decide if it is a good wine – the first swallow is refreshing satisfaction.

The bouquet balloons out with citrus and green grass. On the palate there is lime and apple mingled with a cool minerality. The acidity keeps it crisp and dry with a satisfying zing.

Dry Creek Vineyard’s 2011 Fumé Blanc is a QPR (quality price ratio) explosion, costing only $14.

It’s a bottle of Sonoma County cool that will please the full spectrum of your dinner party guests.

Full disclosure: This bottle was received as a marketing sample.

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Rating: 3.5 of 5  Value: 4.5 of 5
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Saturday, July 14, 2012

21st Indy International Wine Competition Scheduled August 1-3 At Purdue

English: The shrubbery spells out "Purdue...

The prestigious Indy International Wine Competition will take place on the Purdue campus. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

WEST LAFAYETTE, IN – An estimated 3000 wines from throughout the US and around the world are on their way to West Lafayette, Indiana for the 21st Indy International Wine Competition. The annual event - the nation’s largest scientifically organized and independent wine competition - takes place August 1-3 at Purdue Memorial Union on the campus of Purdue University.

Entry deadline for this year’s Indy International is Wednesday, July 25.

“The prestige of the Indy International continues to grow,” said Christian Butzke, professor of enology at Purdue University and the competition’s chief judge. “The Indy provides competitors with an outstanding gauge of continually evolving trends and preferences among wine consumers throughout the world,” he noted, “as well as a direction to use the knowledge gained.”

The Indiana Wine Grape Council, headquartered at Purdue, has put together a panel of over 50 expert judges, selected from among leading wine scientists, winemakers, growers, chefs, sommeliers, wine writers, wine distributors, retailers and consumers. Panel members will critique entries and award coveted Indy medals to those wines judged superior in their categories. In 2011, the Indy International introduced a paperless judging protocol utilizing tablet computers. The new system allows judges to enter wine aroma descriptors, scores and other feedback directly onto the tablets.

Major awards at The Indy include Wine of the Year, White Wine of the Year, Red Wine of the Year, Sparkling Wine of the Year, Rose Wine of the Year, Dessert Wine of the Year, Winery of the Year, and Winemaker of the Year.

Entry information, event history, past winners and more are available at www.indyinternational.org.

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Friday, July 13, 2012

Cambria Julia’s Vineyard 2009 Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley


This graceful bottle of California Pinot Noir accompanied our meal at the Palomino Restaurant and Bar in Cincinnati. Our table overlooked Fountain Square where a Friday night concert was underway.
It is a juicy wine flowing with red cherry and a bit of earthiness. The flavor notes are light and the tannins soft. The texture is silky and the finish subdued.
Julia’s Vineyard delivered an excellent wine for our evening meal, which ranged from pasta and fish to steak. This is a versatile wine that was in tune with each dish, including my Rigatoni Bolognese.
The sleek Pinot was in contrast to the concert outside where the Australian electro-pop band Art vs. Science was on stage playing their throbbing tunes to an enthusiastic crowd. I thought the music was impressive, but my dinner companions not so much.
This Cambria vino retails for about $23 and is a quality estate grown Pinot that will strike the right chord no matter what the audience.
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Thursday, July 12, 2012

Toledo Museum of Art Announces Art of the Vine Tastings for July and August

The Toledo Museum of Art’s popular Art of the Vine tasting series returns in July and August. The event features free, Docent-led tours of objects in the collection that expand upon the theme of the tastings. Six tastings have been announced and run from 7–9:30 PM on select Friday evenings. With the purchase of a wine tasting ticket ($15 members/$25 nonmembers, plus tax), visitors can sample four wines, light snacks, and a complimentary art tour at 7 or 8 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased at the TMA information desks; reservations are not required.
July 13: Feel the Heat (spicy wines), Tour: Color Ignited Exhibition
July 20: Surfing USA (California coast wines), Tour: Water, Water Everywhere
July 27: Color Play (visual feast), Tour: Jules Olitski Exhibition
August 10: Dog Days of Summer (patio wines for hot days), Tour: Outdoor Animals
August 17: Fire & Ice (reds & whites), Tour: Fire & Ice 
August 24: The Light of Dawn (new blends/new wineries), Tour: Jules Olitski Exhibition
Locations for the 30-minute tours can be found online. Visit www.toledomuseum.org/events for the full schedule.
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Wednesday, July 11, 2012

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

Spanish tapas and sangria @ Pata Negra (spanis...
Spanish tapas and sangria @ Pata Negra (spanish wine bar) (Photo credit: aesis)
Wednesday, July 11
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. 1. Butternut Chardonnay, 2. Antidoto Ribera del Duero, 3. Pennywise Merlot, 4. B. Nektar Wildflower Mead. $8 or nominal fee per sample.
Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Spanish Wines. $15.
Thursday, July 12

Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. The World of Grenache Wines: 1.2010 Montgravet – Cotes De Gascogne – Colombard – France, 2. 2011 Marramiero – Pecorino d’ Abruzzo – Italy, 3. 2010 J. Lohr – Wildflower – Valdiguie – Paso Robles, California, 4. 2009 Juan Gil – Monastrell – Spain. Flight $5 or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. More Great Refreshing Summer Wines: 1. De Faveri Extra Dry Sparkling Rose, 2. Kung Fu Girl Riesling, 3. Botani Dry Muscat, 4. Ete Dry White, 5. Charles Krug Sauvignon Blanc, 6. Tablas Creek Syrah-Grenache, 7. 1448 Cabernet-Syrah-Zinfandel, 8. Darting Nonnengarten Riesling Kabinett. Nominal fee per sample.
Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-9 PM. Spanish 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, July 13
Special Event – Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion, 7:00 – 9:30 PM. Art of the Vine. Wine: Feel the Heat (spicy wines), Tour: Color Ignited Exhibition. 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. Steak Wines: 1. Charles Krug Napa Merlot, 2. Niner "Bootjack" Cabernet Sauvignon, 3. Deerfield "Red Rex," 4. Orin Swift "Papillon." $20 tasting.
Saturday, July 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. Steak Wines: 1. Charles Krug Napa Merlot, 2. Niner "Bootjack" Cabernet Sauvignon, 3. Deerfield "Red Rex," 4. Orin Swift "Papillon." $20 tasting.
The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. Annual Bastille Day Tasting: Think Pink. Three Rosés and a Tasty Columbard. 1. Penya Rosé
Grenache and Syrah blend; 2. Domaine de Gournier Rosé; 3. Mas Carlot Costieres de Nimes Rosé Grenache/Syrah/Mourvedre blend; 4. Montgravet Côtes de Gascogne. Flight $2 or nominal fee per sample.
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:30 – 4:00 PM. 7th Annual Bastille Day Wine Dinner   $75 per person. Limited to 28 people. Prepaid Reservations Required. Outside on the Patio – Weather Permitting. A five-course gourmet French lunch paired with wine. Chef Bill Kolhoff and Wine Guy Austin Beeman have created a five course gourmet wine lunch that celebrates the history of fine French dining as well as locally-sourced ingredients.
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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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
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Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Chalone Vineyard 2005 Estate Syrah


First, the obvious question, where or what the heck is Chalone? Not only is it the name of the winery, but also the AVA from where this wine originates. Chalone Vineyard is the only winery within this wine region.
You can be forgiven if you’ve never heard of it. But after tasting this distinctive wine, you probably won’t forget it.
Chalone is a tiny wine region with about 300 acres of vines that straddles the borders of Monterey and San Benito counties in California. It is high in the Gabilan Mountains and has distinctive limestone and decomposed granite soils.
The Chalone Syrah offers brambly, herbal flavors over light to medium tannins. It displays a smooth balance and restrained blackberry and cherry.
This is quite a departure from fruit-driven California wines, drawing instead from its rugged terroir and limestone soils for an intriguing wine that displays a subtle strength. It’s a natural pairing with hearty meat dishes.
We scored this bottle for only $7 on closeout at World Market.
The property that is now Chalone Vineyards was first planted in 1919 and the winery now regularly receives national recognition for its wines, especially its estate Chardonnay.
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Rating: 3 of 5   Value: 4 of 5
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Monday, July 9, 2012

Bodega Norton 2008 Reserva Malbec, Mendoza


The prospect of finding a good deal on a great bottle of Malbec is always enticing. As we were driving back from the Cleveland area, we stopped at World Market in Avon to view their wines. World Market has some great values and we find wines there not typically offered by distributors in the Toledo area.

When I saw this 2008 Norton Malbec Reserva for only $11, I pounced. During a recent evening with friends, we uncorked it.

I would categorize this as a sturdy, serviceable Malbec, but not one that triggers an explosion of fireworks.

The wine offers a deep jammy bouquet. It’s smooth on the palate but doesn’t deliver on the promise of big, rich fruit. The flavor notes are of blackberries and toast. While the flavors were pleasing, it wasn’t complex. The finish was short to medium in length.

This is a fine Malbec, but I was expecting more based on reviews and ratings.

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Rating: 2.5 of 5  Value: 3 of 5
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Saturday, July 7, 2012

Vintage Ohio Wine Festival Scheduled August 3-4; Discount Tickets And Meet The Winemaker Tent Offered

Vintage Ohio Wine Festival, the region’s most popular wine and food event of the year, will take place August 3-4 at the Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland. The event showcases Ohio wineries and is packed with entertainment, gourmet food, crafts, exhibits and wine.
The event, which runs from 1:00 to 10:00 PM each day, is in a great outdoor setting off of I-90 east of Cleveland.
To order tickets go to OhioWines.org or call (800) 227-6972. Use the code noted in the below paragraph to save $10 off the gate price or $5 off the regular advance ticket price. The festival will not be offering any Groupon discounts, so don’t delay taking advantage of this limited time offer.
Ticket prices are as follows.
Adult taster in advance: $25
Adult taster in advance including Meet the Winemakers Tent: $40
Adult taster at the gate: $30
Adult taster at the gate including Meet the Winemakers Tent: $45
Two-day adult taster in advance: $45
Two-day adult taster in advance + Meet the Winemakers Tent: $75
Designated driver: $12
Youth (under 18) $3
Child (under 3) Free
Special rates available for groups of 10 or more. To find out how to qualify for this savings, call (800) 227-6972.
SPECIAL DISCOUNT: For your $10 discount off the gate price, use the code: CCVO12. The 'O' is a letter not a number.
Tips for your festival experience:
  • Plan ahead to taste whites before reds, dry before sweet wines OR
  • Select a category like Riesling, sweet reds, dry whites, etc. and move about tasting in an organized manner
  • If you would like to taste some of the new limited production vinifera-Ohio-grown wines poured by the vintners who made them, consider visiting the Meet the Winemaker Pavilion [There will be an additional $15 per person fee for the Pavilion which includes sampling of 10 wines, Adams Reserve cheese, Olive Tap olive oils and vinegars, fruit and Orlando bread.]
  • But regardless of your palate preferences, plan to sip a little, shop a little, relax a little, eat some great food so you can enjoy all the wines responsibly.
While the 'best' wine is always the wine you enjoy most, some wine lovers prefer drier viniferas over the fun-to-drink native varieties. In a special feature at Vintage Ohio this year, a selection of limited edition, Ohio-grown gold and silver medal viniferas and dessert wines will be poured by our winemakers and their families in the Meet the Winemaker Pavilion.
You will taste one on one with our talented vintners, share in their extensive knowledge and understand why their efforts are garnering rave reviews from the experts around the country.
The area will be hosted by Marianne Frantz of the American Wine School and will feature wines paired with Adams Reserve Cheese, olive oils and balsamic vinegars by the Olive Tap and bread by Orlando Baking Company. Music from an acoustic stage, lots of extra tables under large oak trees, a series of wine education seminars by the American Wine Society and a marvelous selection of foods presented by Cleveland's premier Food Trucks [Jibaro, Umami Moto and Zydeco] will make for a relaxed and somewhat upscale afternoon.
Wineries participating include Klingshirn Winery, Avon Lake; Debonne' Vineyards, Madison; St. Joseph Vineyard, Madison/Thompson; Valley Vineyards, Morrow [near Cincinnati]; Ferrante Winery, Geneva; Grand River Cellars, Madison; Maize Valley, Hartville and Breitenbach Wine Cellars, Dover,
Wines offered in the MTW Pavilion will not be poured elsewhere on Festival Field, although they will be available in the Wine Store to take home.
Cost for this extra special experience at Vintage Ohio will be $15 per person. and includes 10 wine samples and a selection of light appetizers by the partners noted above.
The popular cooking demonstration tent is hosted by the Western Reserve School of Cooking and its talented staff of professional chefs. To view the program Catherine St. John and her team have planned, go to the web site: www.VisitVintageOhio.com. To learn about the great programs offered at their Hudson based school, visit their web site: www.wrsoc.com and as a bonus, request and receive a free original recipe created by one of the members of her team. A special treat will be appearances by Tom Johnson, formerly Ohio's executive chef and the founder of the Guilded Vine Cooking School which helped launch Vintage Ohio's culinary focus nearly 20 years ago.
Complete details including participating restaurants, entertainment schedules and more can be found at VisitVintageOhio.com




As you leave the festival, remember to visit the wine store to take the taste of Vintage Ohio home with you.
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