Monday, March 31, 2014

Sly Dog Cellars 2007 Syrah, Suisun Valley


Sometimes I think that certain wine regions have a visibility problem. For example, the Finger Lakes region should be a lot better known based on the quality of its wine. It’s also easy for Michigan to fly under the radar of American wine lovers.
However, those two regions appear like media giants compared to Suisun Valley. Where is Suisun Valley you (and many others) may ask? It is a rustic wine area and farm community in Northern California’s Solano County between San Francisco and Sacramento.
A few years ago I received some bottles from Sly Dog Cellars, including this 2007 Syrah and was impressed with the quality of wine. I’m not sure the status of the winery, because when I Google Sly Dog Cellars the first item to pop up is Sly Dog Cellars – a blog about pets and it has the same logo as the one on my bottle of Syrah! Their last vintage appears to be 2007. It’s part of the Artisan Family of Wines, which produced a popular Meritage under the Seven Artisans label.
But on to the wine… This is an unfined Syrah with a light body. The aroma is subdued. On the palate the flavors are of earth and woods – certainly not a fruit-driven wine. With Syrah, we appreciate the rugged character of the grape. Here it offers traces of blackberry, oak and vanilla. This is a wine that calls out for some olives or a nice tapenade.
The Sly Dog is a wily creature and its wine is top notch. Here’s hoping the Sly Dog has more vintages in store.
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Friday, March 28, 2014

Celebrate Michigan Wine On The Pioneer Wine Trail April 12-13

A bunch of Pinot gris grapes.

A bunch of Pinot gris grapes. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Pioneer Wine Trail in Southeast Michigan invites you to a special "Michigan Wine Celebration" on Saturday, April 12, and Sunday, April 13. Each winery along the trail will feature an appetizer or dessert prepared by a local chef and paired with their featured wine. The ticket price also includes one tasting glass. A recipe card with the featured recipe will be given out to ticket holders at each winery.

Tickets for this self-driven tour with eight food and wine pairings are $30. Each ticket includes up to six additional wines at each winery. Planned food and wine pairings include:

Burgdorf's Winery, Roasted Chicken Posole - Cayuga or Pinot Gris

Chateau Aeronautique Winery, Roasted turkey salad croissant with almonds & cranberries by Country House Catering - Aviatrix Blush

Cherry Creek – TBA

Flying Otter Winery, Fiesta chicken taco with creamy cilantro sauce and mango salsa - Noiret

J. Trees Cellars, Prosciutto Caprese Panini -  Frazzle Frizzante Rose’

Lone Oak Vineyard Estate, Prime Rib Chimi Pot Pie – 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon

Pentamere Winery, Leek, portobello and gruyere tart – May Wine

Sandhill Crane Vineyards, – 3 Cheese mac & cheese - Sur Lie Chardonnay

There are a limited number of tickets available, ticket sales will end on Wednesday, April 9 at midnight (or when sold out), and tickets will not be available the day of the event.

Ticket holders are welcome to visit each location over the two-day event, or they may choose to limit their visits (as time permits). The Wine Trail encourages ticket holders to bring a designated driver. Hours of the event are Saturday, April 12, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Sunday, April 13, from noon to 6:00 PM.

For more information call (517) 592-4663 or (517) 531-3080. Please note: Ticket holders are welcome to visit each location over the two-day event, or they may choose to limit their visits (as time permits). Purchase your tickets at :  www.pioneerwinetrail.com

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Thursday, March 27, 2014

Bridlewood 2007 “Six Gun” Syrah, Central Coast


Our hearts were captured by Bridlewood Estate Six Gun Syrah. It happened in their tasting room inside their picturesque Mission-style winery building.
This was our final stop on a whirlwind tour of Santa Barbara County wineries. We were on the verge of “palate fatigue” but were refreshed by the wonderful scenery and the rockin’ wines at Bridlewood.
We sampled a trio of outstanding estate Syrah. I lassoed a bottle of Six Gun as the finest of the three. It retails for $32, but is only available at the tasting room. This was a popular wine with special pricing for wine club members.
During a recent thaw in our winter weather, we decanted and enjoyed this bottle with tasting team members Glorious T and the Cabinator. It did not disappoint.
Perhaps because of images conjured up by the Six Gun name, this wine offered aromas of gunpowder and dusty leather saddles. On the palate this is full of dried fruit and toast with substantial tannins. It has bushels of dark fruit and a dash of pepper. Yeeehaw!
Six Gun offers nice Syrah complexity from a premier Santa Barbera County winery. The winery is one of the most picturesque in the country. If you can’t get there, do the next bet thing: sample a bottle of their Syrah.
I’ll be back at Bridlewood later this year during the Wine Bloggers Conference. There is a special catered lunch at Bridlewood to wrap up the conference. I intend to be there with Six Guns blazing!
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Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Toledo Area Wine Events & Tastings: March 26-29, 2014

Cabernet Sauvignon from the California wine re...
Cabernet Sauvignon from the California wine region of Dry Creek Valley in Sonoma. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Wednesday, March 26
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. A selection of wines from Orin Swift Cellars: 1. D-66 2010 Grenache, 2. Fittings 2011 Old Vine Grenache, 3. Abstract 2010 Red, 3. Palermo 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon. $15 per flight or nominal fee per sample.
Denny’s Craft Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. Call for schedule… 6-8 PM. $15.
Thursday, March 27
Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Think Spring, It's Here. 1. 2011 Weingut Theo Minges – Scheurebe Gleisweiler Trocken {dry} — Germany, 2. 2011 Chateau Roubine Cru Classe’ – Rose’ — Cotes de Provence, France, 3. 2011 Donnhoff Norheimer Kirschheck Riesling Spatlese — Germany, 4. NV Pedro Romero – Moscatel – Dark Sweet Sherry — Jerez Xeres, Spain. Flight $9 or nominal fee per sample.
Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Wine That Goes with Pizza Night. Yes, we will have pizza. 1. Fattori Danieli Soave — Italy, 2. Roncho Blanchis Pinot Grigio — Italy, 3. Fattoria del Cerro Chianti Colli Senesi — Italy, 4. Argiano NC Rosso Toscano — Italy, 5. Stroppiana Barbera Superiore — Italy, 6. Wild Meadows Red — Washington, 7. Ravenswood Sonoma Old Vine Zinfandel — Sonoma, California, 8. Clancy's — Australia. 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, March 28
Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. 4-7 PM. Zinfully Fun Wines. Five wines for $10.

Saturday, March 29
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Failla – Cult Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The wines of Failla on the California's Sonoma Coast are some of the finest in California The World. They are also extremely 'cult wines.' Winemaker Ehren Jordan produces only 4,000 cases divided between many single-vineyard bottlings. These wines have received multiple "Winemaker of the Year" awards and even "Wine Spectator Best of the Year" award in 2008. They are beloved by critics and the lucky few who have ever had a chance to taste them. That will be you - soon. Nominal fee per sample.
Up and Coming:
Rosie’s Italian Grille, 606 N. McCord Rd., Toledo, (419) 866-5007 – Tuesday, April 1, 6:30 PM. Mettler Wine Tasting. Ultra premium wines from Lodi winery paired with five course meal. Kim Mettler is special guest. $55 per person. Call for reservations or information.
Cherished Friends of Ahava 10th Annual Wine Tasting, 6:00 - 8:00 PM, Thursday, May 1, at Fifth Third Field - Suites Level, 406 Washington Street, Toledo. More than 40 wines, appetizers, and desserts. $45 per person and $55 per person for reserve tasting. For tickets and details call (419) 241-5877.
Flight, A Wine Tasting at the Toledo Zoo, 7:00 – 9:00 PM, Friday, May 2. Aviary Tour then “migrate” to the Lodge. $40 for Toledo Zoo members, $45 for non-members. Appetizers, wine and entertainment.
Stella’s Restaurant and Bar, 104 Louisiana Ave, Perrysburg, (419) 873-8360 – May 4 at 6:00 PM. Wine dinner sponsored by Berman Wines featuring a great portfolio from Piedmont, Italy.  Chef Rob Campbell will prepare a 5 course meal. $59.95 per person. Call for reservations.
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).
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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
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Tuesday, March 25, 2014

Villa Maria 2007 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot, Gimblett Gravels, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand


In the mood for something different, I pulled this bottle from the cellar recently. You can’t get more different than a Cabernet Sauvignon – Merlot blend from some place called Gimblett Gravels.
This wine is a blend of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, and 2% Malbec. It comes from Hawkes Bay. Hawkes Bay is the second largest wine producing region in New Zealand after Marlborough. It’s known for producing high quality Cabernet, Merlot and Chardonnay – as well as the beautiful Hawkes Bay itself.
Gimblett Gravels is a wine growing region with a special terroir that produces some of the world’s finest full-bodied red wines. It is identified by gravelly soils laid down by the old Ngaruroro River, which were exposed after a huge flood in the 1860's. It’s a relatively new region, with the first red grapes being planted in 1981.
Villa Maria was founded in 1961 and has grown to a global brand exporting wine to 250 countries. In 2001 Villa Maria became “cork-free” and all bottles use screw caps.
This is a delightful wine that I scored as part of a “mystery half case” bought online. Based on the overall price, this wine cost a miniscule $9.99 – and its taste was huge. (I scored a deal because you can typically expect to pay $30 to $40 dollars for it.)
Through bottle age, the Reserve Cabernet-Merlot has softened to a delicious smoothness rife with cherry and plum and a smattering of herbs. This is a wine with a finish that hangs on and on. It’s a wonderful sipping experience.
Looks like Gimblett Gravels is the “go to” location for quality reds in New Zealand!
Rating: 4 of 5  Value: 4 of 5
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Monday, March 24, 2014

Finger Lakes Cab Francs and Red Blends Triumph In Tasting


Some may say that the winemaking fortune of the Finger Lakes rises and falls with the Riesling grape. But those who do are missing out on some premier bottles of Cab Franc, Pinot Noir and red blends. The TWAV tasting team gathered last week for a wine dinner focused on Finger Lakes reds in conjunction with a virtual wine tasting hosted by the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance.
We found during recent virtual tastings that they can be hectic. Between tasting eight bottles in one hour, tweeting or posting to Facebook, and viewing the streaming discussion with wine makers, there wasn’t much time to converse and enjoy the wines. So we decided to put the focus on the wine through a wine dinner preceding the virtual tasting.
Our lineup included one Pinot Noir, three Cabernet Francs and four red blends. We individually rated the wines on a scale of 1 to 5.

As we enjoyed an appetizer course of sushi and egg rolls we sampled the Billsboro Winery 2012 Pinot Noir. Pinot Noir is a thin-skinned grape that is notoriously difficult to grow. The wine is light-bodied with a smooth texture. It is cherry on the palate with a touch of sourness and earth. This is a food wine and would pair well with barbecued fish. It retails for $25. Rating: 2.83
Next up was the Hosmer Winery 2011 Cabernet Franc, which was paired with Curried Pumpkin Soup and a kale salad with warm bacon dressing. This is a natural expression of Cab Franc that shines through. The flavor is peppery and robust. It offers layers of luxurious red and blackberry flavor. This was our top pick of the evening! Rating: 4.08
Batting third was the Chateau Lafayette Reneau 2010 Cab Franc. This is a smooth wine with mellow flavors of cherry and berries. Our tasting panel felt the wine was a bit thin and didn’t have the spiciness they sought. (Upon tasting a day later, we had a more positive opinion.) Rating: 2.15
Heron Hill 2011 Ingle Vineyard Cabernet Franc has a different flavor profile than the other featured Cab Francs. The flavors are delicate spice and forest with light red cherry. This is a wine that grows on you as you sip. Paired nicely with cedar plank salmon and carrot-broccoli fritters with dill and yogurt sauce. Rating: 2.70
Leading off the second flight was the Fox Run 2010 Cabernet Franc-Lemberger blend. Cab Franc and Lemberger is a classic blend that is really making inroads in the Finger Lakes. The Fox Run blend is 54% Cab Franc and 46% Lemberger. It has a full, beautiful nose of leather and jam. On the palate there is pepper and a bit of smoke. Great pairing with a delicious mushroom pasta with truffle oil and caramelized onions. Rating: 2.63
Swedish Hill 2010 Optimus is a nicely balanced blend of 49% Cab Franc, 28% Merlot and 23% Cabernet Sauvignon that plays nicely on the palate. Starts with a pop but then mellows into elegance with cherries, vanilla and smooth tannins. A top pick in the second flight. Rating: 4.00
We decanted the Damiani 2011 Meritage for more than an hour and paired it with beef tenderloin, herbed potato wedges and asparagus. It is tart and tastes young, but provides full flavor. Aroma of the wine cellar and flavors of black fruit. Rating: 3.80
Finishing up with a bang, we moved to the Hector Wine Company 2012 Essence. This is a Merlot-driven blend (43% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Cab Franc and 7% Syrah) from an up and coming Finger Lakes winery. It’s a chewy wine with robust berries and full body. It’s aged in a combination of French, Hungarian and American barrels for nice complexity. It was a perfect accompaniment for our double-chocolate cookies and chocolate covered strawberries. Rating: 4.00
The winemakers, vineyards and wineries in the Finger Lakes continue to raise the bar on the quality of red wines. Lesser known in other wine regions, Cabernet Franc is truly a star here. Some Bordeaux-style blends are also outstanding. Lemberger is coming on as well and we like that. Always better to find a grape that thrives in your terroir than to try to duplicate California. Pinot Noir will continue to bedevil winemakers, but it can be done in the Finger Lakes and done successfully.
A tip of the cap to the wineries and winemakers who participated in the tasting as well as the members of the TWAV tasting team who cooked, sampled and rated the wines.
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Friday, March 21, 2014

Holman Ranch 2012 Estate Sauvignon Blanc, Carmel Valley


Holman Ranch Vineyard is located in the heart of Carmel Valley and the estate-grown wines are grown on 19 acres of undulating terrain. The warmth of the valley and the cooling marine layer prove ideal for wines such as the 2012 Sauvignon Blanc.
The wine is a light gold in the glass. The aroma is citrusy and hits for all the world like a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. It’s like being soaked by a cresting wave of freshness.
On the palate the wine is fresh with a nice acidity. The acidity is not jarring, rather it provides a nice crispness which accentuates the wine’s bright character.
Green Dragon, our resident expert, said she prefers Holman Ranch to other California Sauvignon Blanc. Most bottles from Cali come across too mild and flat for her.
The good news is that Sauvignon Blanc grapes are able to cope with dry seasons better than most varieties. That means there should be no shortage of delicious Sauvignon Blanc Holman Ranch despite California’s recent drought.
Holman Ranch 2012 Estate Sauvignon Blanc sells for a tasty $18. It’s a bottle well suited for the warm weather that’s on the way.
Full Disclosure: This bottle was received as a marketing sample.
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Thursday, March 20, 2014

Meritage: America’s Tasty Blend

Today we present a "classic" TWAV post on one of our favorite wines...

As you make the rounds of wine tastings, wine shops or wineries, you will no doubt encounter a Meritage wine. Chanc
es are that, like me, you’ll assume this is an ancient innovation of a French vintner or a monk somewhere in the Alps.

The name for this tasty and wide-ranging type of wine actually only came about in 1988, by a small group of frustrated California winemakers who were seeking a recognizable term for their Bordeaux style blends.
In France almost all the great wines are blends, generally of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Cabernet Franc, a popular varietal wine in the Finger Lakes region is almost exclusively a blending wine in France.

Meritage is pronounced like heritage and is derived from a combination of merit and heritage. The word is trademarked and winemakers must license the trademark from its owner, the California-based Meritage Alliance.  As of August 2009, the Alliance had over 250 members.
Producers of Meritage must pay a $1 fee per case, which is capped at  $500 vintage and adhere to various labeling restrictions. It is also recommended that the Meritage moniker be reserved for a winery’s very best blend and with a production of no more than 25,000 cases.

Red Bordeaux is made mainly from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot and to a lesser extent Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. A red Meritage must be made from at least two of these or the lesser known St. Macaire, Gros Verdot, and Carmenère, with no grape comprising more than 90% of the blend.

I’ve never encountered one, but white Meritages do exist. The white Meritage blends of at least two of the principal white Bordeaux grapes Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle du Bordolais.
Meritage wines are fun and flavorful. There are other worthy blends, in fact in the Finger Lakes at one winery the server explained that their Rhapsody wine was “like a Meritage” but the winery didn’t want to pay the licensing fee.

For some fun try a tasting matching a Bordeaux blend against a Meritage.
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Photo by Nick Sieger

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

Toledo Area Wine Events & Tastings: March 19-22, 2014

Glass of Malbec wine from Argentine
Glass of Malbec wine from Argentine (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Wednesday, March 19
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. The Wonderful Wines from The Vinaceous! Winery of Australia: 1. Shakre 2011 Chardonnay, 2. Red Right Hand 2010 Shiraz/Grenache/Tempranillo, 3. Voodoo Moon 2011 Malbec, 4. Snake Charmer 2011 Shiraz. $8 per flight or nominal fee per sample.
Denny’s Craft Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. Call for schedule… 6-8 PM. $15.
Thursday, March 20
Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Think Spring, It's on the Way! 1. 2012 Emmolo - Sauvignon Blanc — Napa Valley, 2. 2012 Domaine LaFond Roc-Epine - Rose’ — Tavel, France, 3. 2009 HOPE “The Ripper” - Shiraz — Western Australia, 4. 2012 Chakana - Malbec — Mendoza, Argentina. Flight $9 or nominal fee per sample.
Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Our Annual Wine and Meatloaf Night (with Meatloaves from the House of Meats). 1. Little James Basket Pres Viognier Blend, France, 2. Shebang White, North Coast, California, 3. Conundrum White, Rutherford, California, 4. Monte Antico Toscana, Tuscany, Italy, 5. Hey Mambo Sultry Red, California, 6. Wirra Wirra Scrubby Rise, Adelaide, Australia, 7. Gascon Colosal Red, Argentina, 8. Spann The Classic Four, California. 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, March 21
Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. 4-7 PM. Vino Spanish Style. Five wines for $10.

Saturday, March 22
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Top Values in Argentine Malbec. We head to Argentina for delicious full bodied Malbec - all under $20 per bottle. Nominal fee per sample.
Up and Coming:
Cherished Friends of Ahava 10th Annual Wine Tasting, 6:00 - 8:00 PM, Thursday, May 1, 2014 at Fifth Third Field - Suites Level, 406 Washington Street, Toledo. More than 40 wines, appetizers, and desserts. $45 per person and $55 per person for reserve tasting. For tickets and details call (419) 241-5877.
Flight, A Wine Tasting at the Toledo Zoo, 7:00 – 9:00 PM, Friday, May 2. Aviary Tour then “migrate” to the Lodge. $40 for Toledo Zoo members, $45 for non-members. Appetizers, wine and entertainment.
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).
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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
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Tuesday, March 18, 2014

Fattoria Rodano 2008 Chianti Classico


Sangiovese is our go-to Italian grape. The soft, luscious berry flavors are perfect with dinner or sipping by itself. We opened the 2008 Rodano 2008 Chianti Classico during dinner with friends at the Bistro at Maumee Wines.
At the Bistro you can tour the wine shop and buy a bottle to go with dinner while paying an $8 corkage fee. This was our opening act and we were attracted by the Black Rooster, symbol of the Chianti Classico producers.
This Tuscan wine is 90% Sangiovese with 10% Canaiolo and Colorino. This has a purity of flavor with deep cherry and blackberry flavors mingled with fresher berry tastes.
It’s a bright and wine with a lighter body. There’s some subtle earthiness too. This was a great wine to begin with. Since we were going to enjoy some steaks, we had to move on to a more substantial bottle – the Rodano just wouldn’t match well with heavier fare.
This Chianti Classico is about $18, which seems about right. It’s a bottle of Sangiovese smoothness and berry goodness with which you can’t go wrong.
Rating: 2.5 of 5  Value: 2.5 of 5
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Monday, March 17, 2014

Buttonwood 2010 Zingy Sauvignon Blanc, Santa Ynez Valley

Buttonwood Farms Winery & Vineyard is a sustainably farmed gem in the midst of Santa Barbara County’s Santa Ynez Valley. Their flagship white is Sauvignon Blanc, which they produce in three styles.
We visited with winemaker Karen Steinwachs a couple years ago during our Santa Barbara trip. Green Dragon is a Sauvignon fiend, so she was in heaven tasting three different styles.
Each year the most aromatic and the purest essence of Sauvignon Blanc from the Buttonwood vineyard is selected for the Zingy label. We purchased this bottle at the tasting room and Green Dragon cracked it open recently.
She is a fan of the New Zealand style of Sauvignon Blanc, and that means she likes hers with zesty flavor and plenty of acidity. The Zingy outshines many California Sauvignon Blanc in those areas.
Just today I came across a descriptor that seems to fit. Zingy is nerveaux. What in blazes is that you might ask? Nerveaux is a French word meaning nervous, energetic and vigorous. That seems to capture the freshness and zing of this wine – plus, it’s cool.
Zingy is golden with green highlights. The wine has citrus notes with a taste that recalls a sea breeze.There is minerality and a liberal dose of acidity followed by a nice ending with lemon and pineapple.
This is a small production wine with only 403 cases produced. The cost was a super-reasonable $18 – almost a steal. Buttonwood also produces Devin, which is a Sauvignon Blanc – Semillon blend. Devin has a very different flavor profile, one that is full bodied and smooth.
All of Buttonwood’s wines deserve a taste. An ideal starting point is the nerveaux Zingy!
Rating: 3.5 of 5  Value: 4.5 of 5
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Friday, March 14, 2014

Dry Creek Vineyard, 2010 The Mariner

The Mariner by Dry Creek Vineyard is one of my favorite blends. We had a chance to uncork the 2010 vintage, the latest release, after a recent dinner at Poco Piatti.
While we relaxed with a sampler of music from Austin, Texas, we decanted The Mariner. We opened up with a bottle of Syrah – but soon the crowd (OK, it was Green Dragon, Cabinator and Glorious T) called out for more. The Mariner pulled out of the harbor and sailed into our living room.
This year’s edition is a blend of 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, 41% Merlot, 7% Malbec, 6% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petite Verdot. This is a Meritage wine, so you can be assured that it is top quality. Meritage is America’s Bordeaux-style wine and is regulated by the Meritage Alliance.
One of the reasons we love The Mariner is the label with the inspirational quote and the drawing of an intrepid captain piloting his ship through a tumultuous storm. Winemakers at Dry Creek faced a storm of sorts during the 2010 vintage. It was the most difficult growing season in many years thanks to late spring rains, a cool summer and then several heat spikes before and during harvest. They managed to sail through the rough waters and emerge with a great wine.
This year the blend is balanced between Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. To me it seems softer than the 2009 vintage with less earthiness and more blackberry and cherry flavors. There are a few crumbles of toasted oak in the complex mix. The finish is smooth as a calm sea.
A suggested retail of $45 for The Mariner is well worth it. This bottle is suitable for a special occasion or a nice dinner with friends.
Full disclosure: This bottle was received as a marketing sample.
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Thursday, March 13, 2014

Wine 101 Course Offered By Walt Churchill’s Market in Maumee

Flight 1

Flight 1 (Photo credit: Heather F)

Introduction to Wine 101, a a two-week wine course for beginners will be offered at Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000, at 6:30 to 8:30 PM on Monday, March 24, and Monday, March 31. The cost is $35 per person. 

The Wine 101 Class is for you if:

  • You always wanted to learn about wine, but didn’t know where to start.
  • You want to be confident and comfortable when selecting a wine from a wine list or at a wine shop.
  • You have wine questions you want answered.

This two-week course is geared towards novice wine drinkers who wish to expand their knowledge and experience.  There are no judgments and no such thing as a stupid question.  Both domestic and imported wines will be sampled and the course will cover a variety of topics including:

  • How is wine made? 
  • What is the difference between sweet and dry wine? 
  • How to read a wine label. 
  • Proper tasting technique. 
  • How to store your wine. 
  • And more...

The course is taught by Jim Krusinski - the newest addition to the Walt Churchill's Market Wine Team.  He is a Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) and a 20-year veteran of the wine industry.

Each week you will taste 6 wines as part of the wine course and each participant will leave with a special gift each week that will help them continue their wine journey.

The course is limited to 20 people.  Tasting starts promptly at 6:30pm each week.  Both weeks are included in the price. You must prepay to hold your place.

Contact Austin Beeman or Jim Krusinski at the store or email at Austin.beeman@waltchurchillsmarket.com

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Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Toledo Area Wine Events & Tastings: March 12-15, 2014

Bottles of Bordeaux Wine in Shop, Bordeaux, France
Bottles of Bordeaux Wine in Shop, Bordeaux, France (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Wednesday, March 12
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. The Wonderful Wines from The Vinaceous! Winery of Australia: 1. Shakre 2011 Chardonnay, 2. Red Right Hand 2010 Shiraz/Grenache/Tempranillo, 3. Voodoo Moon 2011 Malbec, 4. Snake Charmer 2011 Shiraz. $8 per flight or nominal fee per sample.
Denny’s Craft Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. Call for schedule… 6-8 PM. $15.
Thursday, March 13
Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Our Favorite Bordeaux: 1. 2012 Belair-Moustet – White, 2. 2012 Chateau Les Terrasses de Bouey – Red, 3. 2009 Chateau Grand Abord – Graves, 4. 2006 Chateau d’ Armailhac – Pauillac. Flight $10 or nominal fee per sample.
Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Mac and Cheese Night!
Yes, we will have mac and cheese: 1. Theo Minges Halbtrocken Riesling – Germany, 2. Allamand Cuvee Saint Jennet – Argentina, 3. Mapema Sauvignon Blanc – Argentina, 4. David Girard Coda Blanc – El Dorado, California, 5. Claudia Springs Pinot Gris – Anderson Valley, California, 6. Castello Romitorio Chianti Colli Senesi – Tuscany, Italy, 7. St Hallett Grenache - Syrah - Touriga – Barossa, Australia, 8. Lamadrid Cabernet – Agrelo, Argentina. 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, March 14
Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. 4-7 PM. Tour of Argentina. Five wines for $10.

Saturday, March 15
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. Portugal Rising – The Still Wines. Special Guest Winemaker in store. We are honored to host Catarina Vieira (Owner/Winemaker of Herdade do Rocim) and Sara Caldeira (Export Manager of Quinta do Mouro & Monte Branco) in store for a special wine tasting. Portugal has been a source of quality wines since the early 1700s and yet it is known almost exclusively for Port. No ports in this tasting. We are focusing on the wonderful dry reds & whites that offer incredible quality & exceptionally great values. Nominal fee per sample.
Up and Coming:
The Bistro at Maumee Wines, (419) 893-2525, 2556 Parkway Plaza, Maumee. Tuesday March 18, 6:30 to 8:30. Wine Tasting: Fine Wines From Oregon State. Chef Joshua Cooper will pair hors d' oeuvres with Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Noir. $35 per person.
Cherished Friends of Ahava 10th Annual Wine Tasting, 6:00 - 8:00 PM, Thursday, May 1, 2014 at Fifth Third Field - Suites Level, 406 Washington Street, Toledo. More than 40 wines, appetizers, and desserts. $45 per person and $55 per person for reserve tasting. For tickets and details call (419) 241-5877.
Flight, A Wine Tasting at the Toledo Zoo, 7:00 – 9:00 PM, Friday, May 2. Aviary Tour then “migrate” to the Lodge. $40 for Toledo Zoo members, $45 for non-members. Appetizers, wine and entertainment.
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).
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[Information on tastings can be sent to TWAV@ATT.NET.]
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Tuesday, March 11, 2014

Vina Robles 2008 Estate Petite Sirah, Jardine Vineyard, Paso Robles

I picked up this bottle at Corks for a virtual tasting with Petite Sirah being the focus. I had only one Petite Sirah in the cellar, but had emptied it several weeks before. I let my wife walk the dog while I scooted to the wine shop.
I was tempted to purchase a close-out Petite Sirah for under $10, but decided to “live large” with this bottle for $25. Good choice!
This is a dark and delicious wine that made an impression. Paso Robles is a great wine region known mostly for Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel – but this bottle shows that it can be a beacon for Petite Sirah also.
Petite Sirah offers a sense of mystery. The name refers to the small size of the grapes. It’s relationship with Syrah has been on-and-off for years. Originally thought to be related to Syrah, that theory fell into disrepute. More recent DNA testing shows that it is indeed related.  Fans of Petite Sirah enjoy its full-bodied flavor.
The Vina Robles PS is inky dark with deep rich flavors of berry and spice. Oh yes, it is loaded with tannins – making it a huge wine, but one that still has silken edges.
The wine comes from three different vineyards: Jardine, Penman and Creston Valley and each contributes to the party. Malolactic fermentation is used to impart the full, smooth body. It is aged for 16 months in French oak, and the wine has a delightful swirls of toasted oak.
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Rating: 4 of 5  Value: 3.5 of 5
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Monday, March 10, 2014

20-Year-Old Winemaker Ferments Success With Red Head Wine


Marisa Sergi is a redhead with a fiery drive that matches her tresses. At only 20 years old she has already produced her own wine and stamped it with her unique brand of success.
Red Head wine is the creation of Marisa Sergi, a junior studying Viticulture & Enology at Cornell University. As her capstone project she decided to create a wine label classy but more appealing than traditional wine labels and test its appeal against already popular wines.
She didn’t stop there as she was able to continue and create the wine behind the label as well. It doesn’t hurt that winemaking is in her blood.
“As a third generation winemaker, I developed my passion for winemaking from my grandfather,” Marisa told Toledo Wines and Vines. “In my school days memory book in the fourth grade I wrote I wanted to be a winemaker. Making wine is a family tradition and I wanted to take part in that. It is a field that I am able to use my creativity.”
Her grandfather immigrated to the U.S. from Italy when he was 24 and brought the family tradition of winemaking with him. Her father opened L’uva Bella Winery in 2006 in Youngstown, Ohio.
“My grandfather shared his homemade wine with his friends and family,” the young winemaker said. “My father, Frank Sergi, took this to the next level by starting L’uva Bella Winery which influenced me to pursue a career as an enologist. I worked with the winemakers of L'uva Bella from learning the process of crush, testing procedures, designing the tastes, to marketing of the labels.”
Red Head wine, which has been one of the top sellers at L’uva Bella, is a blend of California Zinfandel and Chilean Carmenere. “After designing the label that was sexy with bold colors, I was looking for a concept that would match, she said. “It had to fit my model to be sweet and spicy.”
She describes the wine as medium bodied, fruit forward capturing hints of plums, black cherries and blackberries, but with a subtle spicy kick at the finish. She will be interning at E&J Gallo, one of the world’s largest wineries. She hopes to continue with them post-graduation and work not only as a winemaker but also in product development and marketing.
Marisa’s accomplishment is notable not only because of her age, but her gender. While many prominent women winemakers are out there, they are certainly outnumbered by men.
She has some advice for young people and for women who are interesting in breaking into the wine field. “Try to learn something new every day, build your knowledge of the industry, and follow your passion,” says the redheaded winemaker. “Hands on experience helps tie together book knowledge. If you enjoy what you are doing and have a will to work hard, you will be successful.”
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Friday, March 7, 2014

Open That Bottle Night 2014 Report: Diverse Wines Delight


This year one of our favorite events just sort of snuck up on us. It’s a holiday of sorts for wine lovers – Open That Bottle Night. That’s the night when you are encouraged to open a special bottle and enjoy with friends. No sense letting a “treasure wine” molder away for a perfect occasion that may never arrive. Pop the cork and savor the moment now!
This year’s OTBN was February 22. Quite frankly, we forgot all about it. Perhaps our brains were frozen over by the sub-Arctic winter. It turned out better than alright because we had an invite to visit tasting team member Dr. J and wife Casey to sample some wines. So we grabbed a bite at Ruby Tuesdays and headed to their house.
I had gotten a Le Nez du Vin wine aroma kit from Green Dragon for Christmas, so I brought that with me. We began the evening by trying to identify wine aromas – some not so common, like boxwood and lychee.
Our wine lineup was as follows:
  • 2009 Bonny Doon Vineyard Muscat Ca' del Solo
  • 2008 Mark Herold Wines Acha Red
  • 2009 Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Noir Willamette Valley
  • 2006 Sempre Vive Cabernet Sauvignon Old Vine
I grabbed the Bonny Doon on a whim, wanting to try a white and something different – and we don’t drink Muscat every day. This was our opening act. In the glass the wine is a nice yellow in color. It is just off dry with muted floral tones. Minerality was the main impression on our group of tasters. It was an interesting, but not dazzling wine.
Acha is a Tempranillo blend from Mark Herold. I became a fan of his when I sampled his Flux Grenache blend. When I saw a special deal on Underground Cellar, I picked up three bottles including two Acha.
The blend is primarily Tempranillo, with Grenache, Carignane, Graciano and Petite Sirah rounding out the wine. I was expecting a laid back, light bodied Tempranillo and was surprised by the deep earthy flavors and spicy black cherry notes. The wine also has some serious tannins. Acha is expressive and complex. I’m glad we gotcha Acha!
The Willamette Valley Pinot was the “baby” of the group, being a 375 ML bottle we picked up at a dinner at the winery while in Oregon. It might be diminutive in size, but it was 10 feet tall in flavor.
This is a ruby colored wine that represents America’s best Pinot Noir region very well. It is light in body without being weak. Cranberry, cherry and vanilla  swirl in the glass. Green Dragon tagged this as her favorite of the evening.
From the cellar of Dr. J we selected the Old Vines ‘06 Napa Cab from Sempre Vive. Sempre Vive means “always alive” and this wine surely was. We gave it a good decanting while chatting, enjoying cheese and crackers and tasting through the other wines.
Sempre Vive is a beautiful expression of Napa Cabernet. The bouquet is of fresh berries and on the palate it is nice and velvety. The flavor profile is a pleasing jumble of raspberry and black cherries.
I was surprised to learn that the price on this was about $24. That is an impressive value – especially when the current vintage costs $45. If you see it, buy it!
As we drained the last drops from our glass, yet another chapter was added to the Open That Bottle Night legend…
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Thursday, March 6, 2014

Paws and Whiskers Annual Tour of Michigan Wineries Scheduled April 12

English: Cats Whiskers

Cat’s Whiskers (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Paws and Whiskers is a non-profit shelter that cares for the area homeless, unwanted, and orphaned cats. They have helped more than 9,300 felines since they opened in 1996. They operate only on donations – and they have a tasty opportunity to help their worthy cause.

On Saturday, April 12, Paws and Whiskers has organized a motorcoach tour of five Michigan wineries leaving from Toledo. The timing is perfect since April is Michigan Wine Month. Each winery visited will feature an appetizer or dessert prepared by a local chef and paired with their featured wine. As always additional wine tasting is included.

You are invited onboard the deluxe motorcoach to visit the following five wineries, which are part of the Southeast Michigan Pioneer Wine Trail:

* Burgdorf’s Winery – Haslet, MI
* Sandhill Crane Vineyards – Jackson, MI
* Chateau Aeronautique Winery – Jackson, MI
* Pentamere Winery – Tecumseh, MI
* Flying Otter Winery – Adrian, MI

Tickets are $59 per person through March 15th. After March 15th, tickets are $64 per person.

The motor coach leaves promptly at 9:00 AM from the parking lot of
Elder-Beerman 3311 Secor Road, in Toledo. The bus will return at approximately 7:30 PM.

It is suggested that you call early to reserve your tickets. Two motorcoaches are planned: one for the rowdier, party crowd, and one for the quieter, more relaxed crowd.

This is the only wine tour Paws and Whiskers is sponsoring this year. For tickets call (419) 536-1914 or visit www.pawsandwhiskers.org .

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Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Toledo Area Wine Events & Tastings: March 5-8, 2014

Bottle and glass photo of an Alexander Valley ...
Bottle and glass photo of an Alexander Valley California Cabernet from Sonoma County. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Wednesday, March 5
The Andersons, Sylvania, 6– 8 PM. Enjoy the wonderful wines from Poggio Anima Winery of Italy: 1."Uriel" Grillo, 2. "Belial" Sangiovese, 3. "Asmodeus" Nero d'Avola, 4. "Samael" Montepulciano d'Abruzzo. $8 per flight or nominal fee per sample (includes munchies).
Denny’s Craft Beer and Wine Cave, 4400 Heatherdowns, (419) 382-6221. Call for schedule… 6-8 PM. $15.
Zinful Tasting & Taproom, (419) 878-9463, 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville. 6:00 – 9:00 PM. Special tasting of Michael David Winery wines with special guest Nicole Gardner. Five wines will be poured during the tasting. Cost is $20. (Food is available, but not included in price.)
Thursday, March 6
Andersons, Maumee, Wine Tasting. 5-7 PM. Think Spring! 1. 2009 Mont Gras – Bicentennial Blend – Chile, 2. 2011 Tournon – Mathilda Victorian Shiraz – Australia, 3. 2011 Marques de Casa Concha – Cabernet Sauvignon – Chile, 4. 2011 Mercer Canyons – Riesling – Washington, USA. Flight $7 or nominal fee per sample.
Andersons, Talmadge Road, Wine Tasting. 6-8 PM. Chowder Night!
Yes, we will have chowder.1. Torre di Luna Pinot Grigio, Italy; 2. Avancia Godello, Spain; 3. La Cana Albarino, Spain; 4. Domaine de l'Espigouette Cote du Rhone, Southern Rhone, France; 5. Scott Family Pinot Noir, California; 6. Argiolas Costera Cannonau, Italy; 7. Kenwood Jack London Merlot, California. 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, March 7
Walt Churchill's Market, 26625 Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, (419) 872-6900. 4-7 PM. Italian Reds. Five wines for $10.

Saturday, March 8
Walt Churchill’s Market, 3320 Briarfield. Maumee, (419) 794-4000. 12:00 – 5:00 PM. The Wines of Bordeaux… and a discussion of the June 2014 - Wine Tour to Bordeaux. Our Wine Manager, Austin Beeman, spent the month of January in Bordeaux, France starting work on The Wine & Spirits MBA. While there, he got a new appreciation of this most traditional of wine regions. The world's most important region for the last 300 years, Bordeaux sets the standard in Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, & Sauvignon Blanc. Nominal fee per sample.
Up and Coming: The Bistro at Maumee Wines, (419) 893-2525, 2556 Parkway Plaza, Maumee. Tuesday March 18, 6:30 to 8:30. Wine Tasting: Fine Wines From Oregon State. Chef Joshua Cooper will pair hors d' oeuvres with Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Noir. $35 per person.
Cherished Friends of Ahava 10th Annual Wine Tasting, 6:00 - 8:00 PM, Thursday, May 1, 2014 at Fifth Third Field - Suites Level, 406 Washington Street, Toledo. More than 40 wines, appetizers, and desserts. $45 per person and $55 per person for reserve tasting. For tickets and details call (419) 241-5877.
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 Tasting & Taproom, (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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