Thursday, January 31, 2013

Registry Bistro To Host French-Focused Wine Tasting February 4

Cave Rouge Domaine de la Solitude (france) AOC...

Cave Rouge Domaine de la Solitude (france) AOC Pessac-Leognan (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

David Shiverick, owner of Langdon Shiverick Imports, will be hosting a wine dinner on Monday, February 4, at Registry Bistro, (419) 725-0444, 144 N. Superior Street, Toledo. The event will start at 6:00 PM, with Champagne and tray-passed appetizers in the adjacent gallery.

Cost is $70 per person and includes five fine wines and six delicacies from the Registry kitchen. Please call Registry Bistro for reservations and more information.

David is a renowned importer of wines from around Europe, particularly, France. This dinner will focus on his French selections, and David, is currently in France and will have many great stories to share. David is from Cleveland and now lives in Los Angeles.

Three of the premier estates in the Langdon Shiverick portfolio, JL Chave, Max Ferd Richter and Domaine de la Solitude, have nearly 1,500 years combined viticulture and wine production.

Robert Parker recently said of David: “An American importers who values authenticity as well as how wines are shipped and stored. David Shiverick, Langdon-Shiverick Imports is one of our country’s most highly esteemed importers.”

The Menu

I
Fire Grilled Winter Vegetable & Sprout Rolls
Chestnut Sauce
Bernard Remy Carte Blanche, Champagne
II
Red Chili Pork & Roasted Plantain Empanada
Green Papaya Slaw
2010 Domaine Laffourcade Savennières
III
Pan Roasted Sable Fish
Fumet with Olives & Cannellini Ragout
Grilled Walnut Bread
2008 Ollieux Romanis Corbieres Classique
IV
Grilled Elk with Radicchio
Sweet Potato & Chorizo Hash Cake
2010 JL Chave Selections, Crozes-Hermitage “Silène”
V
Braised Oxtail with Carrots Puree
Yorkshire Pudding
2010 Domaine de la Solitude Châteauneuf-du-Pape
VI
Dark Chocolate & Whiskey Truffles
Smoked Sea Salt

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Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: January 30–February 2, 2013

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Wednesday, January 30
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. Spain! 1. Nisia Old Vines Verdejo, 2. Alqueza Moristel, 3. Bajoz Tinto de Toro Crianza, 4. Abel Mendoza Seleccion Personal Rioja. Flight $9.50 or nominal fee per sample.

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

Zinful Wine Bar & Restaurant, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6:00 – 9:00 PM. Comfort food wine tasting! Enjoy winter's best comfort food with warm-up wines. Five courses of comfort food (smoky chicken and pepper soup, goat mac n cheese, fried chicken with pepper gravy and garlic mashed, meatloaf, & dessert!) - only $45 per person.... $40 if you wear a comfortable sweater. Most unique sweater wins a $25 gift certificate.

Thursday, January 31

Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM.More Wines for those cold winter nights. 1. 2009 Treana, Red Blend, Paso Robles. 2. 2011 Justin Cabernet, Paso Robles. 3. Alexande Valley Vineyards Merlot, 4. NV Warre’s Warrior Port Reserve. $8 per flight or nominal fee per sample.
Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Nominal fee per sample.

Middle Ground Market at The Oliver House, 27 Broadway, Toledo. 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Wine tasting. $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, February 1
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Quinta Noval Port Tasting: 1. Noval Ruby, 2. Noval Black, 3. Noval 10 Year Tawny, 4. Noval 20 Year Tawny. $15 tasting.
Middle Ground Market at The Oliver House, 27 Broadway, Toledo. 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Wine tasting. $15.

Saturday, February 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. Quinta Noval Port Tasting: 1. Noval Ruby, 2. Noval Black, 3. Noval 10 Year Tawny, 4. Noval 20 Year Tawny. $15 tasting.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 - 5:00 PM. New Discoveries. Its time - once again - for our favorite wine tasting. At 'New Discoveries' we have an opportunity to showcase the exciting new wines we've uncovered in the last month. Includes a powerful Malbec, Spanish Verdejo, and much more... $15 per flight or nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. 1:00 – 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.] Photo Credit: prayitno via Compfight cc
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Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Monte Real 2005 Reserva, Rioja


Wake up world and enjoy the vibrant wines of Rioja! A typical US wine consumer could easily bypass Spanish wines because of unfamiliarity. That would be a big mistake.
Three of our tasting team members recently had a chance to pop open the 2005 Monte Real Reserva. We found it to be a great ambassador for the wines of Rioja, scoring high in taste, finish and overall drinkability.
This wine from Northcentral Spain is aged for 24 to 30 months in American oak and then is aged in the bottle at least a year before being released to the market. It is 100% Tempranillo from the Cenicero vineyard.
We’re really coming to appreciate Tempranillo. The medium body of the wine fills the void between “big” Cabernets and the delicate thinness of Pinot Noirs.
It’s a beautiful wine with polished tannins and intense cherry flavor notes. Swirls of pepper and spice add to the enjoyment.
Monte Real Reserva is an expressive wine with its red fruit mingled with a delightful earthiness. This is a great choice for barbecued brisket or a roasted leg of lamb.
The cost is quite reasonable, just $24 for a wine you’d be proud to serve your in-laws (if you like them) or your boss. Monte Real Reserva is a smart choice to introduce yourself to the wines of Rioja.
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Full disclosure: We received this wine as a marketing sample.
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Monday, January 28, 2013

Naked Rebel Cabernet Sauvignon–Syrah Blend, California


Has the TWAV tasting team found its perfect match? This Cab-Syrah blend from a brash winery that started out in a college dorm captures the imagination as well as the senses.

Naked Rebel Winery was started by brothers Chip and A.J. Forsythe. They began making wine in the dorms at Cal Poly. It was barely drinkable but each year it got better.

They bill this Cab-Syrah blend as their first “legal vintage” from Napa. The Cab comes from the Oakville region of Napa Valley and the Syrah is sourced from Amador County. The aroma from this wine is amazing, perhaps due to aging in “badass” French Oak barrels.

Even if the wine wasn’t outrageously good, this wine would be worth the $19.99 price tag for the bottle along. Its label is the first in the world to be printed with glow in the dark ink.

As you’re sampling a glass, you can enjoy the rambling manifesto on the back of the bottle. Here are a couple of excerpts:

“This wine goes out to all those who live by the philosophy that it takes a big man to cry; but it takes an even bigger man to laugh at that person.”

“This bottle pairs perfectly with every food and anyone who is mentally prepared for a zombie apocalypse. But if you love white zinfandel and drove your Prius here, put this bottle down. It’s not for you.”

Some low-end wines try to capture their sales with a gimmick or a dog, penguin or monkey on the label. As we opened this bottle, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But this wine overdelivered in spades.

If the Naked Rebel team knew I poured this into a decanter they might shatter my decanter with a bullet or perhaps drive over it with a monster truck. In any case, the wine opened up very nicely.

The aroma is lush with intense berry goodness. On the palate this is a full bodied wine with well integrated tannins. It was a bit sharp on the front end then smoothed out nicely. Tasting team members Dr. J and the Cabernetor were soon singing the praises of this wine.

Syrah and Cab is a winning combination and when you work with Oakville Cab and Syrah from Amador County, you have some of the best grapes California can offer. This wine has deep blackberry rumblings with a smattering of earth and tobacco. Yeah, it’s a robust wine.

This is a wine with an attitude and the result is delicious.

Rating: 4.5 of 5  Value: 5 of 5

Full Disclosure: We received this wine as a marketing sample.

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Friday, January 25, 2013

Cune 2009 Crianza, Rioja


This red from Spain’s Rioja region is made by Compania Vinícola del Norte de España, better known as 'Cune' ("coo-nay”), one of the leading traditional Rioja producers.
Cune Crianza is well-loved in the Rioja region of Northcentral Spain. It is primarily Tempranillo (80%) with 20% Garnacha Tinta and Mazuelo.
In the glass the wine is bright garnet with a purple rim. Cune is light to medium in body.
Crianza must be aged for two years, one of which must be in oak. Cune is fermented in stainless steel. Following malolactic fermentation, it is aged for a year in American oak. For me this created the most pleasing aspect of the wine, a roasted oak foundation. The wine is well balanced with warm red berry flavors.
Cune is a fun and casual sipper that would pair well with a tapas meal, sautéed mushrooms or sausage. For about $10, this is a cool and affordable slice of Rioja.
Full disclosure: We received this wine as a marketing sample.
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Thursday, January 24, 2013

Inaugural Wine Symposium Comes to Finger Lakes March 23; Features Riesling Challenge

Seneca Lake, Geneva, N.Y.

Seneca Lake, Geneva, N.Y. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Geneva, N.Y. – Aimed at wine enthusiasts, the inaugural Wine Symposium of the Finger Lakes will be a world-class wine and food experience held in the heart of the Finger Lakes, in Geneva, N.Y., march 23. Attendees will learn from and taste wines alongside international experts and, in the process, learn about the Finger Lakes American Viticultural Area (AVA) in the context of the world’s key wine producing regions.

“The Finger Lakes is being recognized as a world-class cool-climate winegrowing region. The stature of the Wine Symposium and Riesling Challenge wine competition will further our reputation by establishing a premier celebration of wine and food within the Finger Lakes,” explains Bob Madill, co-chair of the Wine Symposium of the Finger Lakes and member of the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance.

This event, scheduled for March 23, 2013, will begin with a structured tasting on the principles of pairing food and wine presented by Walter Scheib, White House executive chef (1994-2005), and James Treadwell, one of Canada’s top sommeliers and co-owner of Treadwell Farm-to-Table cuisine in Port Dalhousie, Ontario.

The Wine Symposium of the Finger Lakes will take place in the Scandling Campus Center, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, N.Y. Tickets are $150 per person. More information about the event, including sponsorship and registration, is online: www.winesymposiumfingerlakes.com.

Seminar programs will be presented by acclaimed industry experts Thomas Pastuszak, wine director of The NoMad Hotel in New York City, and Dan Berger, award-winning syndicated Los Angeles wine columnist, who will focus on white and red cool-climate wines, respectively.

The symposium includes the inaugural Finger Lakes AVA Riesling Challenge wine competition, to be held at the New York Wine and Culinary Center in the weeks leading up to the symposium. Awards will be presented to the winners of the Finger Lakes AVA Riesling Challenge at the Wine Symposium luncheon.

The luncheon will be a five-course dining experience during which Scheib, as keynote presenter, will entertain and inform attendees about a side of food and wine few individuals have the opportunity to experience — cooking in the White House for two presidents, over an 11-year span and for world leaders as well as the First Families.

Finger Lakes wineries will present a walk-around tasting of their wines, including those named winners of the Finger Lakes AVA Riesling Challenge.

“Local winery owners and area business people believe in the ever-growing importance of the Finger Lakes wine industry, and the increasingly prominent role it is playing as a regional driver of investment, employment and tourism,” explains Dave Bunnell, co-chair of the Wine Symposium of the Finger Lakes and president of Geneva Growth. “The national and international acclaim the region’s wines are receiving go far in explaining how the Finger Lakes region will continue its march to prominence in the world of wine.”

The Finger Lakes wine industry has been making inroads in the national and international marketplaces, with wines from the region recently receiving representation across the U.S. as well as Europe and Asia. Finger Lakes wines have earned coveted international awards, and renowned international wine writers and sommeliers have been organizing tastings in New York City that include wines from this region.

“When coupled with advances being made regionally in the production of beer, spirits, cheese, chocolate, sauces and other artisan foods, there is ample evidence to support the premise that this area is indeed enjoying a rebirth,” adds Bunnell.

The Wine Symposium of the Finger Lakes is the collaborative effort of Geneva Growth and the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance, with support from the New York Wine and Culinary Center, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, the City of Geneva and the Geneva Area Chamber of Commerce.

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Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: January 23-26, 2013

Syrah & veggies
Syrah & veggies (Photo credit: cizauskas)
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Wednesday, January 23
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. Syrah/Shiraz/Petite Sirah...what's the difference? 1. Thief Columbia Valley Syrah, 2. Scott Harvey Amador County Syrah, 3. The Winner's Tank Langhorne Creek Shiraz, 4. Norman Vineyards Paso Robles Petite Sirah. Flight $9 or nominal fee per sample.

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

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

Thursday, January 24

Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Some Great Winter Wines you might not have tried… 1. 2010 J Lohr Pinot Noir, 2. 2010 Mas de Boislauzon, 3. 2009 Sterling Platinum red blend, 4. Buller & Son Tawny Port (Australia). $7 per flight or nominal fee per sample.
Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. The Many Faces of Affordable Pinot Noir: 1. Mike Dika, 2. Over the Edge, 3. Jigsaw, 4. Cloudline, 5. Meiomi, 6. Albert Bichot Mercurey, 7. Sean Minor Carneros, 8. Amayna Leyde Valley. Nominal fee per sample.

Middle Ground Market at The Oliver House, 27 Broadway, Toledo. 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Wine tasting. $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, January 25
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. South American Wines 1. Jean Bosquet Malbec, 2. Montes Alpha Carmenere, 3. Los Vascos Reserve Cabernet, 4. Clos de los Siete. $15 tasting.
Middle Ground Market at The Oliver House, 27 Broadway, Toledo. 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Wine tasting. $15.

Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion, 7 - 9:30 PM. Art of the Vine. Enjoy four wines and light snacks during It’s Friday! at the TMA. This week: Celebrity Wines. Tickets ($15 members/$25 nonmembers, plus tax), are available at the Information Desks.

Saturday, January 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. South American Wines 1. Jean Bosquet Malbec, 2. Montes Alpha Carmenere, 3. Los Vascos Reserve Cabernet, 4. Clos de los Siete. $15 tasting.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 - 5:00 PM. Bordeaux Part 3 – The Values. It is easy to believe that there aren't any values in Bordeaux anymore, especially since the price on the high end has tripled in the past 5 years, but Bordeaux makes almost a billion bottles of wine per year. So values abound if you know where to look. This tasting will include great 2009 Bordeaux from $10-$25 that are not only great values for Bordeaux, but among the greatest value wines from anywhere in the world. Nominal fee per sample.

Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. 1:00 – 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, January 22, 2013

Dry Creek Vineyard 2008 Endeavour Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry Creek Valley


This Dry Creek Valley Cab was opened after a tasty meal at Tea Tree Asian Bistro. I had enjoyed my new favorite dish, Dolsot Bibimbap. This is a spicy Korean dish served in a hot stone bowl with a raw egg and chili paste on top. Upon returning home, I was ready for a nice Cabernet and “chillaxing.”
The Cabinator joined me for this bottle as both our wives were out of town. While the wine decanted we watched the Australian Open, trying to pick up tips to improve our tennis technique.
The wine labels from Dry Creek Vineyard have a nautical theme and, in fact, the name of this wine pays homage to Captain Cook’s namesake ship. The HMS Endeavour ranged the oceans in search of discovery and this night I discovered a truly impressive wine.
Endeavour is Dry Creek Valley’s effort to produce Cabernet Sauvignon that equals the finest of any in California. The Endeavour Vineyard is located in the Lytton Springs area of Dry Creek Valley.
In the decanter the wine glowed a raspberry red. We determined that the best way to enjoy Endeavour is in small sips allowing ample time to savor the cranberry and cherry flavors swirled with a slight dustiness.
The richness of the red fruit blended slickly into well integrated tannins. The blend of 91% Cab, 7% Petit Verdot and 2% Merlot is medium bodied and elegant. It delivers in the glass the way Roger Federer puts away opponents on the court; with a winning combination of style and creativity.
This wine is aged for 26 months in 100% new French oak. The production was limited to 490 cases and it retails for about $65.
Endeavour is the crown jewel of Dry Creek Vineyard’s winemaking efforts.
Rating: 5 of 5  Value: 4.5 of 5
Full disclosure: We received this wine as a marketing sample.
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Monday, January 21, 2013

Trio Of Cabernets Entrance TWAV Tasting Team


Wine Review by Tasting Team Member Wine Chick.The publisher was unfortunately out of town for this tasting, but while he worked the TWAV Tasting Team uncorked three special red wines: two Ontario Cab Francs and a Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon.
Happy New Year! Once the holidays ended and schedules weren't so hectic, members of the TWAV tasting team met to celebrate wine and friendship with some great reds. Sax Man and Wine Chick hosted. Green Dragon, Glorious T, and Cabinator attended and brought bottles to share.
The first was a 2009 Cabernet Franc from Rosewood Estates, Beamsville Bench VQA, near Niagara Falls, Ontario. We decanted this bottle for about 30 minutes, allowing the spice to come forward in the nose and the palate and smooth out to a blackberry jam finish. The fruit notes broke up the tannins and peppery notes, creating a nice balance for those who like pepper and spice as well as those who like more fruit flavors.
The second was another Cabernet Franc by Pillitteri Estates, Niagara Peninsula VQA, also of the Niagara region. This was a 2007 that decanted for 15 minutes. It had a smokier nose than the first, more tannins, with notes of spice and green pepper on the nose and the palate. Tasting notes on the label also suggest hints of tobacco, dark chocolate, and rhubarb. Less fruity than the first wine, but enjoyed by all.
The third and final wine was a 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon by Wyland of Sonoma Valley. This one stood out in its complexity and bold, assertive flavors. Peppery in front, the wine smoothed out at the end and was described by the group as a "feel good, traditional" Cab. A great wine to warm up with during the winter months.
Overall, a great night! If you are traveling to Ontario, take some time to sample some of the wineries in the region. Wyland can be purchased locally.
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Sunday, January 20, 2013

Stella’s Restaurant Schedules “Looking Forward To Spring” Wine Tasting January 27

Stella’s Restaurant, 104 Louisiana St., Perrysburg (419) 873-8360, will feature a “Looking Forward to Spring” wine tasting on Sunday, January 27, beginning at 4:00 PM. With wind chills dipping below zero, it couldn’t come at a better time!

Restaurant manager Eli Ewing said, “We figured, in the middle of winter, everyone might like to eat some food and drink some wine that make them think of the warmer weather on the way.” The event will feature six wines, three white and three red, from the Pacific Northwest. The wines have been selected to pair with springtime food.

Cost of the event is $35. If the event is not sold out, tickets will be available at the door for $40. We suggest you call today for tickets because these tastings are very popular events. We don’t want you to be left out in the cold!

Photo Credit: Sweet Carolina Photography via Compfight cc

Friday, January 18, 2013

Casalfarneto Fontevecchia Classico Superiore Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi, DOCG


The Classico Superiore Verdicchio wine by Casalfarneto comes from the Marches region of Italy. Legend has it that when the Visigoths marched on Rome, they were provided with barrels of Verdicchio to maintain their strength.
Verdicchio means “little green one” and the grapes are straw colored with green tinges. The grapes for the Superiore wines come from the oldest winegrowing areas, in this case the Fontevecchia Vineyard.
This wine is crisp and tinged with minerality. It is fermented in stainless steel and aged for nine months before bottling. It has a rich texture with tropical fruit notes. It has more gusto than most Italian whites.
The Verdicchio pairs well with fish, shrimp and real Italian dishes. This wine got a hearty thumbs up, especially when you want a switch from Chardonnay.
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Rating: 3 of 5  Value: 3 of 5
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Thursday, January 17, 2013

Renaissance Cellars Norton, Kansas

Wine review by Tasting Team member Dr. J. This is our very first review of a wine from Kansas.

My sister came to town for Christmas from Kansas.  She mentioned that there was a winery close by and wanted to know if I wanted her to bring me anything. I quickly jumped online to research and said, "Yes!  Bring me a Norton."   

On the nose was blueberry, blueberry, blueberry...loads of it.  If I didn't know better, I'd think this was a blueberry fruit wine.  There is once again, loads of blueberry on the palate with spice and pronounced tannins. 

This is a deep, dark, and inky wine that is bold and medium to full body.  I have had very few Nortons but I have really enjoyed the couple I have had in the past and this was no different. 

Rating: 3.5 of 5 Value: 3 of 5
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Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: January 16-19, 2013

Juan Gil Monastrell
Juan Gil Monastrell (Photo credit: quinn.anya)
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Wednesday, January 16
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. 1. The Divining Rod Chardonnay, 2. Tall Timber Merlot, 3. The Divining Rod Cabernet Sauvignon, 4. Tessora Limoncello Classico. Flight $9 or nominal fee per sample.

Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. 6-8 PM. Sebastiani Wines with Michael Hicks. $15

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

Thursday, January 17

Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. More Great Winter Wines: 1. 2010 Cryptic Red Blend, Sonoma County, 2. Antigal Uno (1) Malbec, Argentina, 3. Noval Black Ruby Port, Portugal.4. 2011 Warre’s Late Bottled Vintage, Portugal. $7.50 per flight or nominal fee per sample.
Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Iconic California Wineries. 1. Sterling:  Napa Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet, Platinum (Cabernet, Merlot,  Petite Verdot blend). 2. Ferrari-Carano: Fume Blanc, Sonoma County;  Chardonnay, Sonoma County; Merlot, Somoma County; Cabernet, Alexander Valley; Sienna, Sonoma (Sangiovese Blend). Nominal fee per sample.

Middle Ground Market at The Oliver House, 27 Broadway, Toledo. 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Wine tasting. $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, January 18
Aficionado Wine and Cigars, The Shoppes at RiverPlace, 26567 N. Dixie Highway, Suite 135, Perrysburg, (419-873-4444). 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Pinot Party! 1. Valley of the Moon Pinot Blanc, 2. Elk Cove Pinot Gris, 3. A to Z Pinot Noir, 4. The Pinot Project Pinot Noir. $10 tasting.
Middle Ground Market at The Oliver House, 27 Broadway, Toledo. 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Wine tasting. $15.

Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion, 7 - 9:30 PM. Art of the VineEnjoy four wines and light snacks during It’s Friday! at the TMA. This week: Celebrity Wines. Tickets ($15 members/$25 nonmembers, plus tax), are available at the Information Desks.

Saturday, January 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. Pinot Party! 1. Valley of the Moon Pinot Blanc, 2. Elk Cove Pinot Gris, 3. A to Z Pinot Noir, 4. The Pinot Project Pinot Noir. $10 tasting.


Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 - 5:00 PM. Bordeaux Part 2 – The Right Bank. Now we switch attention to the wines east of the Gironda river and the regions of Pomerol and Saint-Emilion. These are the supremely sexy and succulent Merlot and Cabernet Franc based wines. If all you've had are the Merlots of California, you haven't even had any Merlot yet. The awesome high-rated 2009s are amazing wines and we'll have plenty of those to enjoy. Premium tasting.

Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. 1:00 – 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, January 15, 2013

Sly Dog Cellars 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills Lake County


This Cabernet hails from the world-class Beckstoffer Red Hills Vineyard in the Red Hills district of Lake County, California. Like the sneaky canine it is named for, it snuck into our wine tasting late one night.
Green Dragon and I had dinner at the Revolution Grille in Toledo joined by our friends Glorious T and the Cabernetor. I had selected a nice high end bottle of Cab to open when we returned from the restaurant.
Fate had something different in mind. The Cabernetor was battling a migraine which was made worse by the festive and raucous crowd that packed the Revolution Grille. For perhaps the first time in recorded history, he had to take a pass on tasting a $100+ bottle of Cabernet.
When Green Dragon and I arrived back at TWAV world headquarters (also known as our house) I decided to shelve the high-end Cab and instead grabbed the 2005 Sly Dog Cellars Cabernet. It turned out to be a superior wine with no “ruff” edges.
This wine had been in my cellar for more than two years and the extra age has added a nice patina of elegance. It took my palate a couple sips to get in sync with the wine, but I soon enjoyed a nice dish of black cherry, raspberry and vanilla flavor firmed up with mellow tannins.
Sly Dog is medium in body and sports a finish that stretches beyond the expected. I’m not sure if this is generally available, but at the price point of about $15 it has great QPR (Quality Price Ratio).
The winery gained its name from a sneaky dog that stole a steak just off the grill. In terms of value and taste, the Sly Dog ‘05 Cab is a steal too.
Rating: 3.5 of 5  Value: 4 of 5
Full Disclosure: We received this wine as a marketing sample.
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Monday, January 14, 2013

Domaine Zind Humbrecht 1988 Muscat D'Alsace

Wine Review by Tasting Team Member Dr. J
After the news of The Anderson's in Northwood closing in February, I ventured over to see if I could find some deals on wines I may not purchase otherwise. Mixed in with several $100+ bottles in a small section of an aisle, I found a dusty bottle of Muscat D'Alsace from 1988. I have never had anything like this, nor did I know if it would be any good but I just had to take the chance for $19.99. I couldn't wait to get home and chill this as it would be the oldest wine I have personally tasted.
On the nose was peach, honey, butterscotch and lilac. I swirled and let this open for about 15 minutes before enjoying. The nose poured open as this was decanted, almost like potpourri. This wine is surprisingly dry and light with hints of hay, butter, and nuts on the palate. After swallowing, it is gone with virtually no finish.
I wasn't wowed with this wine but I was impressed with the taste after 24+ years. I read that this wine was best somewhere around 2005. It was not "hot" at all. The alcohol was hardly pronounced.
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Rating: 3 of 5 Value: 4 of 5
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Friday, January 11, 2013

Chocolate Is For Lovers Wine Trail in NE Ohio Scheduled February 1-2, 8-9

Plate with chocolate

Plate with chocolate (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Escape cabin fever and treat your sweetie to a Valentine surprise February 1-2 and 8-9 during the Chocolate is for Lovers Wine Weekends along the Vines and Wines Trail in northeast Ohio.

Sixteen wineries will be participating and will offer two wine samples and an appetizer at each stop. You’ll also receive a candy dish and luscious chocolates by Bakers Candies of Cleveland to take home with the bottles you might be gathering along the way. Participants will receive a Schott Zwiesel wine glass and enjoy the hospitality at each family owned winery during an otherwise dreary time of year. 

Participating wineries are:

  • Bene Vino Urban Winery, Perry
  • Biscotti's Family Winery, Conneaut
  • Buccia Vineyards, Conneaut
  • Debonné Vineyards, Madison
  • Deer's Leap Winery, Geneva
  • Emerine Estates, Jefferson
  • Ferrante Winery & Ristorante, Geneva
  • Goddess Wine House, Ashtabula
  • Grand River Cellars, Madison
  • Maple Ridge Vineyards, Madison
  • Old Firehouse Winery, Geneva-on-the-Lake
  • Old Mill Winery, Geneva
  • Tarsitano Winery, Conneaut
  • The Lakehouse Inn Winery, Geneva-on-the-Lake
  • The Winery at Spring Hill, Geneva
  • Virant Family Winery, Geneva

The cost is $50 a couple or $40 for a single traveler. Only 150 tickets are available, so you should act quickly. Several lodging discounts are available for trail travelers providing a perfect way to create a weekend escape from the ordinary. Click here to order your tickets.

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Thursday, January 10, 2013

Bodegas Valdemar 2008 Inspiración, Rioja


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The Valdemar 2008 Inspiración is a wine that means easy enjoyment. From the pop of the cork to the very last drop, this is a Rioja that rocks!

Rioja is a region in Northcentral Spain’s Ebro Valley. The area is buffered by mountains and threaded by rivers. It’s sheltered location is ideal to allow grapes to ripen to a balanced acidity.

A sip of Inspiración hints at the Rioja lifestyle, where good times center on meals, laughter and great wine.

This wine is primarily Tempranillo (86%) with 10% Graciano and 4% de Maturana. From the first sip there is a rush of cherries, soft spices and a pleasing round mouthfeel. Some wines need to unwind and open up before you can truly assess them, but the Inspiración impresses from the very first.

The tannins in this wine are subdued, merging seamlessly into the wine. Oak aging is used, but the bright fruit remains at the forefront. We enjoyed this with a lamb entrée and the results couldn’t have been more ideal. 

Inspiración sells for about $28 and is a sure winner for a party or a special meal at home.

Rating: 4 of 5  Value: 4 of 5

Full disclosure: We received this wine as a marketing sample.

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Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Toledo Area Wine Tastings & Events: January 9-12, 2013

Wine Tasting
Wine Tasting (Photo credit: Andrew Albertson)
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Wednesday, January 9
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. 1. Zocker Gruener Veltliner, 2. Manoir du Carra Fleurie,3. Barista Pinotage, 4. Inkling Rose. Flight $7 or nominal fee per sample.

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

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

Thursday, January 10

Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Great Winter Wines: 1. 2010 Decoy Cabernet Sauvignon, 2. 2008 Trenza red blend, 3. 2010 Seghesio Zinfandel, 4. 2011 Gysler Scheurebe Halbtrocken. $7.50 per flight or nominal fee per sample.
Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Nominal fee per sample.


Middle Ground Market at The Oliver House, 27 Broadway, Toledo. 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Wine tasting. $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, January 11
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 Reds: 1. Castillo de Monseran Garnacha, 2. Vina Zorzal Graciano, 3. Juan Gil Monastrell, 4. Baron De Ley Reserva Rioja. $10 tasting.
Middle Ground Market at The Oliver House, 27 Broadway, Toledo. 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Wine tasting. $15.

Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion, 7 - 9:30 PM. Art of the VineEnjoy four wines and light snacks during It’s Friday! at the TMA. This week: Celebrity Wines. Tickets ($15 members/$25 nonmembers, plus tax), are available at the Information Desks.

Saturday, January 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. Spanish Reds: 1. Castillo de Monseran Garnacha, 2. Vina Zorzal Graciano, 3. Juan Gil Monastrell, 4. Baron De Ley Reserva Rioja. $10 tasting.

Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 - 5:00 PM. Bordeaux Part 1 – The Left Bank. In the first of our three-part series on the world's most important wine producing region, we focus on wines west of the Gironde river. This includes many of the world greatest Cabernet Sauvignon wines from Pauillac, St Estephe, St Julien, and more... We're tasting lots of high-rated wines from the great 2009 vintage as well as some excellent wines from older vintages. Premium tasting.

Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. 1:00 – 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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