Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: October 31–November 3, 2012

Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir (Photo credit: naotakem)
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Wednesday, October 31
The Andersons, Sylvania, No wine tasting tonight.

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6:00 – 9:00 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

Thursday, November 1

Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. 1. Mark Davidson – Sauvignon Blanc (85%) / Semillon (15%) Blend – Australia, 2. Mark Davidson – Cabernet Sauvignon (85%) / Merlot Blend (15%) – Australia, 3. Blood of Jupiter – Sangiovese/Cabernet Sauvignon – Australia, 4. Nieport – Tawny Port – Portugal. Flight $6 or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Oregon Pinot Noir: 1. Tori Mor Willamette Pinot Noir, 2. Evening Land Pinot Noir, 3. Bethel Heights Pinot Noir, 4. Ken Wright Cellars Pinot Noir, 5. Domaine Droughin Pinot Noir, 6. J.K. Carrier Pinot Noir, 7. Cristom Eola Hills Jessie Vineyard Pinot Noir, 8. Bergstrom de Lancellotti Vineyard Pinot Noir. Nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-8 PM. Santa Rita Winery with Special Guest Eric Terwilliger. $15

Corks Wine and Liquor, Promenade Plaza, 27250 Crossroads Pkwy., Rossford – (419) 872-6800. 6-9 PM. Nominal fee per sample.
Middle Ground Market at The Oliver House, 27 Broadway, Toledo. 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Great Value Vinos, all wines in this tasting are priced affordable for the holidays. $15.

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 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. 4 Cabs / 4 Continents: 1. 6 Hats Cabernet (South Africa), 2. Errazuriz "Single Vineyard" Cabernet (South America), 3. BV Napa Carbernet (North America), 4. Jim Barry "The Cover Drive" Cabernet (Austrailia). $15 tasting.
Middle Ground Market at The Oliver House, 27 Broadway, Toledo. 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Great Value Vinos, all wines in this tasting are priced affordable for the holidays. $15.
Saturday, November 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. 4 Cabs / 4 Continents: 1. 6 Hats Cabernet (South Africa), 2. Errazuriz "Single Vineyard" Cabernet (South America), 3. BV Napa Carbernet (North America), 4. Jim Barry "The Cover Drive" Cabernet (Austrailia). $15 tasting.

The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. Wines So Good You’ll Want To Take A Bottle Home: 1. Bonny Doon Ca’ del Solo Muscat, 2. Domaine de Regusse Pinot Noir, 3. Bonny Doon Contra Red, 4. Eden Vermont Ice Cider. Flight $3.50 or nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 - 5:00 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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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
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Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Stepping Stone by Cornerstone 2011 North Coast Rocks! White Wine


This California white is a magnificent aromatic blend of a well-known grape and one that usually flies under the radar. California is certainly the recognized king of Chardonnay in the US. Gerwurztraminer, however, is unknown by many wine lovers.
In our household we have a split vote on Gerwurz. I love the spicy, Germanic grape while the Green Dragon has lately made it known that she isn’t digging the floral aspects.
The White Rocks! harnesses the best of both grapes. Chardonnay can be sedate, but the Gerwurztraminer rocks out the aroma with flowing floral and citrus notes. The Chard tempers the Gerwurz with classic pear and melon flavor notes. It’s a delightful balance.
The two grapes do a bit of a tango that keeps the experience racy, clean and satisfying. The Stepping Stone label from Cornerstone Cellars is accessible for every day drinking. Their Rocks! wines are designed to throw off the chains of single varietal wines with blends that inspire fun.
White Rocks! retails for $18 and it is a great sipping wine or one that can easily pair with salads or spicy Oriental dishes.
Full disclosure: This wine was received as a marketing sample.
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Monday, October 29, 2012

Sharon James Cellars: Ohio Winery Visit


Sometimes the road less travelled can result in delightful surprises. That was the case during a recent visit to Punderson State Park in Newbury, Ohio.

We had picked up our daughter from Kent State and had dinner and spent the night at the lodge. In the morning we hiked the Iroquois trail and then engaged in a spirited nine holes of disc golf. When we returned to the lodge just after 2:00, we were told the restaurant had closed.

Skittering down the road in search of a restaurant that might work for our vegan daughter, we discovered Zeppe’s Tavern and Pizzeria, which had a great outdoor patio. Right across the street was what looked like a brand-new winery: Sharon James Cellars, 11303 Kinsman Road, Newbury, Ohio, (440) 739-4065. 

Following our afternoon meal in the Indian Summer sun, we stopped in to explore this new addition to the Ohio wine scene. We were ushered into the parking lot by an energetic young lady in a grape costume.

Inside the attractive and modern building we were greeted by Jim Sciaulino, the “James” of Sharon James Cellars. Jim and Sharon Sciaulino are Mantua natives who decided to pursue their dream of winemaking and opened the winery in August after renovating a former restaurant building.

The couple planted a vineyard six years ago and it includes Chardonnay, Riesling and Cabernet Franc. Their new vineyard, located at the site of the tasting room, includes Vidal, Cabernet Franc and Traminette.

The tasting room is beautiful with ample room at the bar, a nice dining area and some comfy chairs. When the Green Dragon asked to start with the Vidal, I was surprised to see Jim go over to the tap.

Sharon James is one of the only wineries in Northeast Ohio to serve wines on tap. During our visit the whites were on tap, but the reds were from the bottle.

Since their own grapes aren’t at full production level, Sharon James still has to buy their grapes. The grapes are all from Ohio with the exception of Steuben and Riesling (from Pennsylvania) and Barbera from California.

I started with Mary’s Wild Irish Rosé, a rosé made with Steuben grapes. The wine is dry and refreshing. Our daughter tried the Catawba and enjoyed its perky sweetness. It had a nice floral bouquet.

My next selection was Diligence (all the wines are named after a virtue), which is a Cab Franc wine. This was cranberry in color with a medium body. This was a very good Ohio Cab Franc – not as heavy as a Cabernet Sauvignon with an enjoyable pop of berry flavors.

We then tried Zeal, which is a California Barbera finished in a port style. The wine has a full body. Although it isn’t fortified, it had the Madeira style taste. This wasn’t a favorite.

Jim showed his skill as winemaker by then mixing the Zeal with the Cab Franc Diligence. This was superior to the individual wines, adding some body to the Cab Franc, but cutting the strong flavor of the Zeal. Jim said he may plan on bottling this in the future.

My last tasting was the Acceptance Riesling. As a real fan of Riesling, I found this to be a bit thin but a worthy effort.

Sharon James has a first class winery building that includes dining, a tasting room, production facilities and a great patio area. The wines are enjoyable and hold even greater promise for the future.

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Friday, October 26, 2012

Stepping Stone by Cornerstone 2010 North Coast Red Rocks!

Explore Argentinian wine and enjoy.

Stepping Stone Red Rocks! is a blend affordable enough to uncork every day, but the sterling quality of the grapes makes it a luxurious experience. This North Coast red blends Zinfandel from Lake Country, Syrah from Sonoma and Merlot from Napa Valley. That’s a trilogy that indeed rocks.
Cornerstone Cellars is well known for their Howell Mountain Cabernet and their Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. We became acquainted with Cornerstone and their focus on terroir-driven wines at the recent Wine Bloggers Conference in Oregon. With their Rocks! line of wines offered through their Stepping Stone label, they seek to offer a marriage of value and great wine that can be enjoyed every day.
Some wine blends “wimp out” and lack the tannins and varietal accents to make it a satisfying drink. Red Rocks! has no such drawbacks.
The Zin and Syrah give the wine a medium to full body, substantial enough to stand up to some spicy barbeque. The Syrah lends an earthiness while the Zinfandel accentuates nice juicy black fruit flavors and a brambly character. The Merlot has a mellowing effect and stitches it all together with a lush, smooth texture.
Rocks! is an intriguing wine that is produced in limited quantities. A total of 1,051 cases were produced and it is expected to be available only about six months out of the year. Suggested retail price is $18.
Stepping Stone Red Rocks! is a wine high in drinkability that will be sure to please experienced wine lovers as well as the novice. Rock on!

Full disclosure: This wine was received as a marketing sample.
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Thursday, October 25, 2012

Gourmet Wine Dinner At WCM To Salute Chef Bill Kolhoff on October 28

Red Argentine wine

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

A gourmet dinner featuring a multi-course dinner with food and wine is scheduled at the Briarfield Walt Churchill’s Market on Sunday, October 28, at 1:00 PM.

The event is to celebrate the final day of Chef Bill Kolhoff’s tenure at Walt Churchill's Market. Chef Kolhoff has been a part of numerous wonderful gourmet events. This event will be the final opportunity at WCM to taste his excellent food.

A true Chef's Dinner, this will be a multi-course celebration of food and wine. The number of courses and the specifics of each dish will be known only to Chef Bill Kolhoff and Wine Guy Austin Beeman.

The cost for this gourmet event of the year is $100 per person. It is strictly limited to 20 people and tickets must be prepaid. Contact Austin Beeman at ( 419) 794-4000 to purchase tickets.

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Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: October 24-27, 2012

Wine barrels
Wine barrels (Photo credit: jon starbuck)
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Wednesday, October 24
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Outstanding Closeouts! 1. VaVaVoom Riesling, 2. Bonny Doon Vineyard “Contra,” 3. Heller Estate Organic Merlot, 4. Bonny Doon Vineyard Moscato. $7 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-8 PM. $15.

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6:00 – 9:00 PM. All Roads Lead to Rhone. Are you ready to give yourself over to the greatest wine region ON EARTH?! Maybe you know the Rhone region of France, maybe you don't...either way, your life begins tonight. Nominal fee per sample.

Thursday, October 25

Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Which witch is which? A blind Tasting of 4 varietals… 1. Casillero del Diablo – Carmenere – Chile, 2. Anciano – Reserva Tempranillo – Spain, 3. Gascon – Malbec – Argentina, 4. Treasure Hunter – The Square Deal – Cabernet Sauvignon – Napa Valley, California. Flight $5 or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Spooky Wines. Monstrous, ghoulish and spooky wines for Halloween. 1. Concha y Toro Casillero del Diablo (cellar of the devil) Chardonnay, 2. Velvet Devil Merlot, 3. 7 Deadly Zins, 4. Victor Hugo “Hunchback” Red, 5. Freak Show Red, 6. Orin Swift Palermo ‘Crypt’ label Cabernet, 7. Leelanau Cellars Witches Brew. Nominal fee per sample.

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, October 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. French Wines: 1. Chateau de Corneilla Blanc, 2. Schreyer Edelswicker Blanc, 3. Domaine du Vieux Chene, 4. Mas de Boislauzon Cotes du Rhone. $10 tasting.
Saturday, October 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. French Wines: 1. Chateau de Corneilla Blanc, 2. Schreyer Edelswicker Blanc, 3. Domaine du Vieux Chene, 4. Mas de Boislauzon Cotes du Rhone. $10 tasting.
The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. Halloween Wines: 1. Leelanau Witches Brew, 2. Moselland Black Cat Riesling (cat bottle), 3. Bogle “The Phantom” Red Blend, 4. Schmitt Söhne Zeller Schwarze Katz. Flight $2.50 or nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 - 5:00 PM. Spotlight on The New California Wine Industry. California wines are in the midst of an incredible transformation. A succession of cool vintages coupled with the Great Recession have invited many Vineyards to change what they have been doing. Declining are a massive ‘point-chasers’ and there has been a rise in sustainable ‘wines of place.’ We will explore those wines in this tasting. 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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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
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Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Finger Lakes Ice Wine and Sparklers Show Delicious Versatility


Quick, name a Finger Lakes grape variety! Chances are you said, “Riesling.” Riesling is the grape most associated with New York’s premier winemaking region – but the vintners in the Finger Lakes have talents that culminate in a spectrum of wines – from the driest sparklers to sweet dessert wines.

The TWAV tasting team gathered recently to take part in a virtual tasting to sample four ice style wines and three sparkling wines. The lineup included:
  • Atwater Estate Vineyard 2008 Cuvée Sparkling Wine
  • McGregor Vineyard 2008 Blanc de Noir
  • Swedish Hill Winery Riesling Cuvée
  • Casa Larga Vineyards 2008 Vidal Ice Wine
  • Lucas Vineyards 2010 Vidal Iced Wine
  • Knapp Winery 2010 Vidal Ice Wine
  • Standing Stone Vineyards 2010 Gewurztraminer Ice
The Atwater Cuvée is a sparkling wine from the Seneca Lake appellation made with 66% Pinot Noir and 34% Chardonnay. It is handcrafted every two years using the traditional méthode champenoise. Atwater is known for their consistently clean, well defined white wines. The winery has an awesome view from their deck and it is one of the closest to the B&B we typically stay at while visiting the Finger Lakes.

The Cuvée was a crowd pleaser. The delicate bubbles were a treat. The wine was smooth with the Chardonnay being apparent on the nose. This is a versatile food wine.

The second sparkler was the McGregor 2008 Blanc de Noir. As the name suggests, this white wine is made with Pinot Noir grapes that typically yield a light red wine. A total of 1,800 bottles were made using the time-consuming méthode champenoise. The McGregor has 0.5% residual sugar but remains dry.

The Blanc de Noir was less effervescent than the Atwater and had a light nose. This is a pleasing wine from a seriously cool winery.

Swedish Hill Winery’s Riesling Cuvée rounded out the trio of sparkling wines. Swedish Hill is one of the largest wineries in the Finger Lakes. They regularly earn recognition on the state, national and international levels.

This Cuvée was the only one to have noticeable sugar (at 3.4%). There were 750 cases produced and it has 12% alcohol. Our tasting team detected peach on the nose and enjoyed the hint of sweetness on the palate. This is a good choice to appeal to both the sweet and dry wine lovers.

The second flight was ice wines, although I would term two of them ice-style wines since the grapes are frozen after harvest. Casa Larga’s 2008 Fiori Vidal Blanc Ice Wine led off the flight.

Casa Larga uses traditional German Eiswein techniques, harvesting the grapes late in December when the temperature drops below freezing for an extended period of time.

The body is thick with a pleasant nose. There is a bright sweetness with butterscotch and stone fruit flavors. This is a highly awarded wine. Although great ice wine can be made with a variety of grapes, Vidal seems ideally suited for this style.

Lucas Vineyards is the oldest winery on Cayuga Lake and they produce elegant fruit-driven Rieslings and a wide range of other wines. The Lucas 2010 Vidal Blanc Iced is not a traditional ice wine. The grapes are frozen post harvest. The result is certainly delightful.

This wine is honey on the tongue and the body is less syrupy than most ice wines, giving it almost a fruit juice quality. The aroma is most fragrant and the taste is like a refreshing pear. This was the team choice for best ice wine.

Standing Stone Vineyards specializes in Riesling and Gewürztraminer. The grapes for their 2010 Gewürztraminer Ice comes from their oldest Gerwurz vineyard. This is a non-traditional ice wine, with the grapes frozen post harvest.

The Gerwurz ice brings a bushel of unique flavors including spicy nutmeg and pumpkin. The bouquet is floral and perfumed. This luxurious wine will be perfect to accompany dessert after a hot Asian meal.

Knapp is a groundbreaking Finger Lakes winery. They were the first to plant Cabernet Franc (bless you!) and the first winery restaurant on Cayuga Lake. Their white wine program emphasizes fruit driven flavors with full bodied complexity in the mouth.

Rounding out the tasting was the Knapp 2010 Vidal Ice Wine. This has a whopping 23% residual sugar and a thick consistency. The grapes were harvested when it was 13 degrees Fahrenheit. On the nose there is white grape and sherry. On the palate there is a charming honey citrus flavor. It is a complete package of sweet goodness.

Our tasting left us with a great appreciation of the skill of Finger Lakes winemakers. The ice wines are simply superb, rivaling the best we have sampled. The sparkling wines show great promise and help demonstrate that the Finger Lakes is a wine lover’s dream destination, no matter what style you prefer.
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Monday, October 22, 2012

Jean-Pierre & Alexandre Ellevin 2009 Chablis


This French white is from the Chablis region famed for their crisp, light wines made exclusively from Chardonnay.
France’s take on Chardonnay is a refreshing change from the oak attack of the big California Chards. The limestone soils of Chablis create a taut minerality and pleasant crispness.
In the glass the wine is a bright yellow with a hint of green. It has lemon and pear aroma.
The predominant taste for me was of green apple that rolled into a medium length clean finish.
This Chablis is an affordable French treat (about $20) that will sip well before or after dinner. It will also pair nicely with seafood or shellfish.
Rating: 3 of 5  Value: 3 of 5
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Friday, October 19, 2012

Santa Rita 2008 Medalla Real Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon


After California, where do you next turn for a tasty Cabernet? How about Chile?
Following a recent charity event in Bowling Green where I did a shift as emcee, we stopped into Sam B’s for a bottle of wine. My jokes were not greeted with uproarious laughter as expected. Here’s an example of one of the jokes: “I’m planning on opening an auto repair shop – I already have the air.”
As you can tell, some wine was needed. Scanning the wine list I found this nice Cab from Chile’s Maipo Valley.  We’ve recently been enjoying Chilean Cabs and the great flavor they deliver at a surprisingly low price point.
Our friend Gary has a political beef with the government of Argentina, but really likes the economic policies of Chile, so the Santa Rita was an easy choice.
The fruity nose was burbling out of the glass and the first sip declared that this was indeed a full-bodied Cab with bushels of flavor. Flavor notes of black cherry and blackberry are woven with herbal tracers. Tannins are well integrated providing a nice framework for a smooth mid-palate and a long lingering finish.
If only my audience at the fundraiser had a glass or two of the Medalla Real, they would have been delighted with my wit!
The bottle cost $39 off the wine list. It retails for about $18 to $20. This is recommended highly.
Rating: 3.5 of 5  Value: 4.5 of 5
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Thursday, October 18, 2012

Revolution Grille Schedules Blend Your Own Bordeaux Wine Dinner October 21

Think you have the knack of winemaking? Here’s your chance to test your skill. Revolution Grille, (888) 456-3463, 5333 Monroe Ave., Toledo, has scheduled a Blend Your Own Bordeaux Wine Dinner on Sunday, October 21, at 6:00 PM. 
This is your change to learn the finer points of what makes great Bordeaux. You will be able to taste the complexities, elegance and balance of flavors. Representatives from Trinchero Winery and Heidelberg Distribution will be on hand to help you create your own Bordeaux. The menu is artfully prepared by Chef Robert Campbell and paired with Bordeaux wines.
Cost is $59.95 per person. Reservations are required and seating is limited.
Photo by Robert S. Donovan
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Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: October 17-20, 2012

Tempranillo wine from the Spanish wine region ...
Tempranillo wine from the Spanish wine region of Tierra de Castilla (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
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Wednesday, October 17
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Poggio Anima! 1. ”Uriel” Grillo, 2. “Belial” Sangiovese, 3. “Asmodeus” Nero D’Avola, 4. “Samael” Montepulciano D’Abruzzo. $8 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-8 PM. $15.

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6:00 – 9:00 PM. Labor Day Redux: Wines that Work for You. (I wanted to do this tasting back during the real Labor day, but wasn't quite ready) With all that holiday drama right around the corner, now's the time to save wherever you can. Drop by and sample this hardworking lineup of whites and reds that will keep you in the black.
Nominal fee per sample.

Thursday, October 18

Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. 1. Arindo – Verdejo – Spain, 2. Broquel – Malbec – Argentina, 3. Paoletti Piccolo Cru’ – Napa Valley, Califonia, 4. Quinta do Noval – 2005 LBV Port – Portugal. Flight $6 or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Rowdy New Wines: 1. Gradis’ciutta Collio Cabernet Franc, 2. Eisenhower “Last Straw” Red, 3. Columbia Crest Horse Heaven Hills Cabernet, 4. Conundrum Red, 5. Locations E, 6. Sterling Platinum, 7. Mollydooker “The Boxer” Shiraz. 8. Delaforce 2000 Vintage Port. Nominal fee per sample.

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, October 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. Spanish Garnacha: 1. Vina Borgia, 2. Evodia, 3. Tres Picos, 4. Alto Moncayo "Veraton." $15 tasting.
Saturday, October 20
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Spanish Garnacha: 1. Vina Borgia, 2. Evodia, 3. Tres Picos, 4. Alto Moncayo "Veraton." $15 tasting.
The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. French Beauties: 1. Domaine LaRoche Petite Chablis, 2. Les Hospices Sancerre, 3. Le Petit Caboche Red, 4. Dom. Sainte Rose Coquille d’oc Rouge. Flight $3 or nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 - 5:00 PM. WCM Fall Festival and Delicious Discounts. There are a lot of fun Fall-themed activities happening at Walt Churchill’s Market on this Saturday in every department. Maybe even goats?! So back in the wine shop we’ll be pouring delicious discounted wines. Our Wine Expert Austin Beeman has picked the best closeouts available and this will be your chance to try them all. 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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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
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Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Dance Uncorked To Feature Exceptional Wine and Celebrity Dancers On October 20

On October 20, 2012, Catholic Charities will host Dance Uncorked, an evening with exceptional wines and dances. Local celebrities have teamed up with professional dancers from OnStage Studios, and each pair will perform a dance at the event and will be judged by the audience based on performance!

This year's emcee is Mary Beth of 101.5 The River's "Mary Beth and Rick in the Morning." The evening includes a large array of appetizers and sandwiches, wine tasting, dancing, and raffles.  All proceeds benefit Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Toledo.

Last year, Catholic Charities served more than 41,000 people of all faiths in 19 counties of Northwest Ohio by providing food and shelter, adoption services, pregnancy support, bereavement ministry, and more. Their mission is to make God's love real to each person servee and to provide services that are life transformational.

Tickets are $75 and may be purchased by contacting Michelle Stephens at 419-244-6711, ext. 214 or mstephens@toledodiocese.org . Celebrity dancers include:
  • Marianne Ballas, Owner and President of Ballas Buick GMC
  • Hilary Sujkowski, Owner of Sujkowski Funeral Home Northpointe
  • Mr. and Mrs. Phil and Debbie Buerk, Co-owners of Scrambler Marie's Restaurant
  • Mr. Larry Boyer, Vice President of Waterford Bank
  • Mr. and Mrs. Len and Paula Hansen, retired chemist and speech and language pathologist; Commercial Investors
  • Mrs. Julie Sofo, wife of Michael Sofo, CEO of Sofo Foods
Flickr photo by Jennifer




Monday, October 15, 2012

Blog Action Day: The Wine and Social Justice Connection

For the past three years we have participated in Blog Action Day, an effort to get bloggers around the world to focus on one topic and thereby raise awareness of an important issue. In 2010 the topic was climate change and last year the theme was water.

This year the theme is “The Power of We,” which is defined as a” celebration of people working together to make a positive difference in the world, either for their own communities or for people they will never meet half way around he world.”

How, I wondered, does the wine community make a positive difference in the world? The idea that wine can be an impetus for social good has a solid foundation. In Proverbs 31:6-9 it says:
Give strong drink to one who is perishing,
and wine to those in bitter distress;
let them drink and forget their poverty,
and remember their misery no more.
Speak out for those who cannot speak,
for the rights of all the destitute.
Speak out, judge righteously,
defend the rights of the poor and needy.
Apparently King Lemuel was focused on carousing and not the poor and downtrodden. His mother urged him to turn that idea around and told him to focus on those in despair. 

For some of us the closest connection to wine in the public interest is attending a benefit gala. Many worthy causes are aided this way and the wine distributors and volunteers deserve appreciation for all their efforts in this way.

But one example really brought home to me what a difference the fruit of the grape can make in the lives of people.

A shining example is Shoe Shine Wine, which makes “authentic, handcrafted Petite Sirah with equal passions for quality, beauty and social justice.”

Winemaker Eric Cohen briefly worked in the financial work of New York City before he became turned off by corporate greed. He moved out west to fine other like-minded individuals and volunteered working harvest at a couple of wineries.

Through his wine he satisfies his passion for wine and his equal need for social justice. He believes the working poor need to be celebrated and elevated. Shoe Shine Wine is the embodiment of that statement.

A main cause for Shoe Shine Wine is a National Living Wage and their vision is to be a resource and a catalyst for the national living wage movement as they expand across the country. Shoe Shine is among the first in the industry to celebrate and feature LGBT designs on their front labels.

Their vineyard designated Petite Sirah is food friendly, complex, elegant, balanced, and ageworthy. Some spectacular Petite Sirah grapes go into the bottle, but it is also important to note what doesn’t go in. Shoe Shine Wines do not have any added sugar, acid, tannin (excluding that from oak barrel aging), enzymes, copper sulphate, coloring agent, or fining agents.

The wines range in price from $25 to $75. Instead of a tin, aluminum or plastic capsule, the wines come with vintage fabric capsule.

With Shoe Shine Wine you can raise your glass and raise an important cause as well.



Founded in 2007, Blog Action Day brings together bloggers from different countries, interests and languages to blog about one important global topic on the same day. Past topics have included water, climate change, poverty and food with thousands of blogs, big and small, taking part.
Photo by Gabriel Flores Romero

Friday, October 12, 2012

Put-in-Bay Winery: Lake Erie Winery Visit


The recent Put-in-Bay Island Wine Fest was great for many reasons and certainly one of them was that it provided the chance to visit the Put-in-Bay Winery.
The PIB Winery opened in 2009, giving South Bass Island in Lake Erie two wineries. Not bad for an island that is less than four miles long and a mile and a half wide.
The island’s only incorporated community is the village of Put-in-Bay. The south shore of Lake Erie is 12 miles away, so to get to the winery you must take either the Miller Ferry from Catawba Island or the Jet Express from Port Clinton or Sandusky.
Nestled in the Victorian era Doller House, the winery has an amazing view of the bay. When we arrived the winery was bustling with the Wine Fest crowd. PIB Winery manager Robby Morrow was sprinkling some lavender on a gourmet pizza just coming out of the oven. The winery is high on food and fun.
We made our way to the tasting bar and tried their Put-in-Bay sampler. This is a flight of Merlot, Pinot Grigio and Riesling. Our s
erver was the delightful Diane Nemec. She explained that the majority of the grapes for the PIB wines came from North Bass Island a short distance away. Other flights featured wines from Canada’s Pelee Island and West coast wines.
My favorite of the three was the Riesling, which was tasty, sweet and refreshing – just what many are looking for on an island trip. The Pinot Grigio was simple but satisfying. The Merlot was not a favorite – especially when some of the best in the world were being sampled at the Wine Fest.
On Diane’s recommendation we tried the Blackberry wine. This was a satisfying sip of berry goodness and a nice reminder of summer past.
In realty the three main things are location, location, location. It’s not a bad thing for a winery either. The PIB winery has beautiful grounds with plenty of unique sitting areas to soak up the wine and the surrounding natural beauty. The deck also provides a great vantage point to enjoy waterfront views.
The winery is appealing as a great destination. You have the winery, the Doller House, beautiful grounds and the Island Life Museum (which we didn’t get a chance to visit). You also have the fun atmosphere of Put-in-Bay. During our visit we stopped at the Boardwalk restaurant, just a few steps away, for some lobster bisque.
The PIB winery is a ship-shape destination for wine lovers seeking a unique experience.
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Thursday, October 11, 2012

Shelton Vineyards 2007 Malbec, Yadkin Valley


A funny thing happened during the first presidential debate. No, I’m not talking about the Big Bird comments. We opened up a Malbec from North Carolina – and it was really good.

A couple years ago the Green Dragon visited her mother in North Carolina and they visited a couple of wineries, including Shelton Vineyards. She picked up a bottle of their estate grown Malbec and its been in our cellar since that time. I’ve thought that it was a special bottle, so I had resisted uncorking it for everyday drinking. I also didn’t open it for any special occasion because I really wasn’t sure of the quality. As a result, this lovely bottle sat and sat.

We knew we would need something to drink during the debate and so I decided the time was now. I cautiously took a sip, half expecting some unrefined funk. Wrong! It was delicious.

This is the first every Malbec produced by Shelton in the North Carolina wine Mecca of Yadkin Valley. It retails for $20, but appears to be sold out on the winery website. The grapes come from a block of 3.3 acres of Malbec on the estate.

Ripe berry aromas greet the nose and there are rich flavors of plum and blackberries. The wine is a deep, inky indigo and has a round, expansive mouthfeel. The finish tapers off smoothly. It is a very well made wine.

Yadkin Valley has a similar climate and growing season to some of Europe’s top wine growing regions. The Yadkin Valley AVA is one of the largest on the East Coast.

No debate about it. This is a smooth and sensible wine that deserves your vote.

Rating: 3.5 of 5   Value: 4 of 5
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Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: October 10-13, 2012

Spanish vineyard in Galicia with wide spacing ...
Spanish vineyard in Galicia with wide spacing among the vines. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
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Wednesday, October 10
The Andersons, Sylvania, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Ken’s Picks II: 1. Louis Chavy Bourgogne Grand Ordinaire, 2. Gradis’ciutta Collio Cabernet Franc, 3. Franc Beausejour Bordeaux, 4. Soos Creek Columbia Valley Red Wine. $9 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-8 PM. South American Wines. $15.

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6:00 – 9:00 PM. Going Back to Cali. Time to kick it West Coast style. Pinots, syrahs, cabs, and zins...Represent! Nominal fee per sample.

Thursday, October 11

Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Some New Fall Wines: 1. Cameron Hughes – Lot 266 – Pinot Noir – Los Carneros, California, 2. Orin Swift – E (Espania) – Spanish Red Blend – Spain, 3. Los Clop – Reserva Malbec – Argentina, 4. Campus Oaks – Almond Flavored Sparkling Wine – California. Flight $5 or nominal fee per sample.

The Andersons, Talmadge Road. Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Powerhouse Spanish Reds. More great reds, Tempranillo, Mourvredre, and Grenache from my recent trip to Spain. 1. Tres Picos Garnacha, 2. Resalso Ribero del Duero, 3. Volver Tempranillo, 4. Altos de Luzon, 5. Teso la Monja Romatico, 6. Petalos, 7. Teso la Monja Victorino, 8. Alto Moncayo Garnacha. Nominal fee per sample.

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, October 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. Piedmont Italy: 1. Montaribaldi Moscato d'Asti, 2. Damilano Barbera d'Asti, 3. Boglietti Dolcetto d'Alba, 4. Damilano "Lecinquevigne" Barolo. $20 tasting.
Saturday, October 13
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Piedmont Italy: 1. Montaribaldi Moscato d'Asti, 2. Damilano Barbera d'Asti, 3. Boglietti Dolcetto d'Alba, 4. Damilano "Lecinquevigne" Barolo. $20 tasting.
The Andersons, Woodville Mall. 1-3 PM. “A Little of This, A Little of That, Part 2:” 1. Jacuzzi Chardonnay, 2. Santa Ema “Amplus” Sauvignon Blanc, 3. Burgo Viejo Crianza Rioja, 4. Martue Red. Flight $2.25 or nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 - 5:00 PM. Awesome Old Italian Wines! 1995 – 2003. We’ve raided a Columbus-based distributor’s wine collection and pulled rare and beautiful gems. Expect to drink totally mature Brunello di Montalcino, Barolo, Barbaresco, Barbera D’Alba, and more. Unless you have these awesome wines in your cellars, there isn’t anywhere else to get them. Premium 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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