Cantina Produttori di Valdobbiadene Group - Val d'Oca
Val d’Oca, under the Cantina Produttori di Valdobbiadene, is one of the oldest producers of Prosecco. Their sparkling wines are made with Glera grapes that are cultivated and vinified in the hills of Valdobbiadene.
Established in 1953, Cantina Produttori di Valdobbiadene is comprised of nearly 600 growers within 800 hectares of vineyards. For many years, Val d’Oca has been focused on the goal of producing quality wines with the aim of promoting the efforts of its members – along with communicating the superior quality product in order to ensure that consumers fully realize that all production stages, from grape growing to bottling of wine, are performed with care and precise skill.
Val d’Oca’s commitment to production and quality has been inherently present since their early years. They have implemented a technological update program to assist in maintaining the quality of the harvest each year. This includes investments in vinification and laboratory controls. Initiatives in the vineyard have also been implemented more recently, which include satellite mapping of members’ vineyards, on- going technical assistance provided by a team of agronomists, training for all growers, and the implementation of a BIO project for the future.
We're joined by Susannah Gold, DWS, FWS - Vigneto Communications as she moves us through the Prosecco Territory and introduces #winestudio to Val d'Oca.
Twitter hashtag #winestudio - Tuesday evenings 9-10pmET 29 September & 6 October
Week 1: 29 September 9-10pmET - Val d'Oca and its Impact on the Prosecco Territory
1: History | Organization | Mission
Cooperative winery established in 1952 with currently 600 members and 1000 hectares in the heart of DOCG producing area, Valdobbiadene.
Agricultural company with industrial scale capacity. Wines that are an expression of different territories.
2: Vineyards | Unesco | Terroir
60% of vineyards are in the hills (DOCG quality) where climate, soils and tradition combine to make the best grapes to make Prosecco.
UNESCO recognition in July 2019 for the hills of Conegliano Valdobbiadene - winegrower works in collaboration with nature. Patrimony to protect for future generations.
Biodiversity in the vineyards
Terroir: 15°- 60° steepness of vineyards, south facing slopes, with sun exposure throughout the year. Steepness can reach 170% (67° steepness) in some areas! Mild climate, although significant thermal differences between day and night. 90% of grapes are hand harvested Glera.
Denominations of Val d’Oca:
Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG
Rive DOCG
Cartizze DOCG
Asolo Prosecco DOCG
Prosecco DOC Treviso
Pinot Grigio delle Venezie DOC
3: Wines | DOCG | DOC
Val D’Oca Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Extra Dry Millesimato
Val D’Oca Prosecco DOC Extra Dry
Prosecco Pyramid Refresher – DOC, DOCG, RIVE, CARTIZZE
4: Quality Controls in Vineyard and Winery
V.I.V.A Certification, sustainabile viticulture.
S.Q.N.P.I. (Sitema di Qualità Nazionale di Produzione Integrata)
Week 2: 6 October 9-10pmET - Val D’Oca and Prosecco Today
1: Sustainability Budget
Sustainable development goals | impact on the company | path through to 2030.
Wines from an ancient tradition: protect the territory and natural resources.
First Co-op in the Veneto region to have a sustainability budget.
2: Rive
“RIVE” is a sub-appellation created by the Tutelary Consortium that identified the single areas in the region between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene with the best conditions to grow glera grapes. They are terroir-driven wines that show the character and uniqueness of the land where the grapes are grown.
Val D’Oca-Cantina Produttori di Valdobbiadene, thanks to its widespread presence in the area is the only producer to have nine different Rive wines.
Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore “Rive di San Pietro di Barbozza”: brut version, where the varietal scents of apple and pear come together with intense floral notes. Citrus notes of grapefruit make it very refreshing. Nice acidity and a touch of minerality make it tasty!
3: Val D’Oca Rosé
Rosé sparkling wine is a blend of Glera grapes and Pinot Noir grapes using the Charmat Method.
The vinification of the two grapes is made separately, then blended together before the second fermentation in autoclave, where the wine stays in contact with yeasts for two months.
The result is a sparkling wine that on one hand preserves all the fruitiness and freshness of the glera grape, on the other it keeps the character of the Pinot Noir grapes as well as the complexity given by the skin contact during maceration and the yeast contact during second fermentation.
4: Pairings & Cocktails
Fresh, moderate acidity, and moderate alcohol make it ideal for aperitivo and all through the meal.
Spritz, the classic Italian Cocktail, originally from the Veneto region.
Wines:
Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore “Rive di San Pietro di Barbozza”
Val D’Oca Rosè
#Valdoca #ValdocaUSA #Prosecco #ProseccoDOC #ProseccoDOCG #Conegliano #Valdobbiadene #Asolo #Veneto #ProseccoRive #ProseccoRose #winetravel #wineblogger #enotour #tourism #wineenthusiast #wino #Glera #whitewine #winelover #madeinitaly #shareitalianwine #shareitalianexcellence #stradedelProsecco
It’s my understanding that you either know Lugana or you don’t; It’s that simple. And yet, this 1200 hectare region near Lake Garda, Italy is anything but simple. With this small of an area, and with over 120 producers of Lugana (five styles of one grape: Turbiana) there’s lots of information to cover although easy navigable, once we dig in. Over four-plus weeks time during #winestudio, we’ll dig deep and come out at the end of our series as Lugana experts, or at the very least, Lugana Lovers! Lying on the border between the two Provinces of Brescia and Verona, the Lugana denomination stretches along the plains of Morainic origin to the south of Lake Garda, within the communes of Sirmione, Pozzolengo, Desenzano and Lonato (in Lombardy) and Peschiera del Garda in the Veneto.
The name would appear to derive from the early-medieval word “lucus” (“a wood”). This zone was in fact covered in the past by the Selva Lucana, a dense and marshy forest. But the presence of vines in this area dates back much further – at least to the Bronze Age – and is proven by the famous Vitis Silvestris grape seeds found around the pile dwellings of Peschiera del Garda.
Today it is an area that is characterized by very particular soil, made up predominantly of white clays and limestone, capable of giving the grapes cultivated here extraordinary elegance and tanginess as well as longevity.
As with most grapes, the white Turbiana becomes a reflection of where it’s grown, how it’s treated, dependent on soil characteristics and of course the winemaker’s characteristics; it transforms into a Lugana wine with many iterations of itself. And although that may seem super confusing, each Lugana wine affords us views into this small region and an even smaller snapshot into each winery’s style. And we’ll be tasting and discussing a lot of wine!
Andrea Bottarel, the recently appointed Consorzio Tutela Lugana DOC Director puts it this way: “It is extremely important to understand that, unlike some other regions, due to the territory being mainly flat and with subtle differences in soil composition and climate, there may be a difference in wine profiles, but not in quality. Vineyards closer to [Lake Garda] will tend to produce slightly sharper wines with a more distinctive salinity, and the ones closer to the lower and sandier hillside, will tend to produce slightly bolder whites, sometimes with bolder fruit. This of course applies to single vineyard wines, but there are also producers aiming for balance and either growing or buying grapes from different parcels.”
We're joined by Susannah Gold, DWS, FWS - Vigneto Communications as she moves us through the region and introduces #winestudio to the Consorzio Tutela Lugana DOC.
Twitter hashtag #winestudio Tuesday evenings 9-10pmET June 9, 16, 23, 30
Lugana DOC - The Small Northeast Wine Region near Lake Garda, Italy - One Grape, Five Wine Styles
Week 1 June 9: The Lugana Geography and how it Shapes the Region and its Wines
History: shaping Lugana
Lake influence and micro-climates
Soils: clay, morainic, sand
Micro-climate influenced wine profiles
Wines:
Citari 2019 Sorgente
Citari 2018 Conchiglia
Nunzio Ghiraldi 2018 il Gruccione
Marangona 2018
Perla del Garda 2018 Perla
Corte Sermana 2018 Cromalgo
Colli Vaibò 2018
Week 2 June 16: Say Hello to the Mysterious and Expressive Turbiana Grape
Grape characteristics
Vineyard management
Organic management
Cellar practices
Wines:
Marangona 2017 Tre Campane
Marangona 2018 Bio
Ottella 2016 Riserva Molceo
Selva Capuzza 2015 Riserva Menasasso
Nunzio Ghiraldi 2017 Sant’Onorata
Malavasi 2018 San Giacomo
Tenuta Roveglia 2018 Limne
Week 3 June 23: The Many Faces of Lugana – from Grape to Vinification Processes and its Five Styles
Vintage Lugana
Lugana Superiore
Lugana Riserva
Lugana Late Harvest and Lugana Spumante
Wines:
Olivini 2016 Brut
Pilandro NV Brut Patricia
Bulgarini 2017 Superiore Cà Vaibò
Armea 2018
Sgreva 2018 Sirmio
Colli Vaibò 2015 Riserva Gemma
Cà Lojera 2015 Riserva del lupo
Corte Sermana 2015 Riserva Sermana
Tenuta Roveglia 2016 Riserva Vigne di Catullo
Week 4 June 30: Painting the Lugana Picture: Lifestyle - Culture - Foods
Regional overview
Food pairings – local and international
Export markets and future trends
Five key take-aways
Wines:
Cà Maiol 2018
Marangona 2017 Cemento
Montonale 2017 Orestilla
Montonale 2018 Montunal
Montonale 2017 Montunal
Cà dei Frati 2017 i Frati
Tenuta Roveglia 2016 Riserva Vigne di Catullo
Tinazzi 2018 Tarcisio
#LUGANA #LUGANALOVE #luganalover #lugana #luganawine #winetravel #wineblogger #enotour #tourism #wineenthusiast #wino #turbiana #clay #claysoil #whitewine #winelover #madeinitaly #shareitalianwine #shareitalianexcellence
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Introducing: The Cooperativa Vinícola San Valero
The Group formerly known as Grupo Bodegas San Valero is celebrating 75 years of quality winemaking with the launch of a new corporate structure and the same dedication to Quality Wine Production.
Bodega San Valero (BSV) has produced new proprietary brands that maintain the passion and spirit of the founding winemakers of 1944. Quality as a competitive advantage remains the goal as Cooperativa Vinícola San Valero now celebrates 75 harvests. We'll discuss the new brands while tasting through these reasonably priced wines.
Follow the hashtag #winestudio for the entire program.
April 7, 14, 21, 28 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm ET
Wine Educator: Kat Thomas, Training Manager, Hakkasan Group Las Vegas @yoga_kat
Week 1 - A Tale of Monte Ducay - the Prized Terroir of Cariñena
Grand Ducay Brut Nature Blanco – SRP $10.99
Grand Ducay Brut Nature Rosado – SRP $10.99
Week 2 - Celebrities - Rise of the Cariñena Indigenous Monovarietals
Celebrities Garnacha 2019 – SRP $14.99
Celebrities Carinena 2017 – SRP $14.99
Celebrities Old Vine Garnacha 2016 – SRP $14.99
Week 3 - Celebrities - International Varieties and the Roles they Play in Cariñena
Celebrities Merlot 2018 – SRP $14.99
Celebrities Syrah 2018 – SRP $14.99
Celebrities Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 – SRP $14.99
Week 4 - 75 Years - Quality and Community - The Advantages of Co-Operation
500 Manos – SRP $15-$20
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Ricasoli 1141
The history of Italy cannot be told without including the prominent contributions of the Ricasoli family, who have produced wine since 1141. Ricasoli is documented as the oldest winery in Italy and the fourth oldest family business in the world. A beautiful illustration of the family tree in 1584 is one of the first images of the Chianti area and the family archives include export receipts dating back to the late 1600s. However, perhaps the most famous historical contribution came from Baron Bettino Ricasoli, who was not only twice the prime minister of Italy, but after 30 years of experimentation and documentation, developed the original formula for the Chianti wine that became the standard for the region.
The heart of the Ricasoli wine production comes from the Brolio castello, a magnificent castle located in the commune of Gaiole in Chianti, which was built as an outpost to defend Florence from the rival city of Siena. Within the estate, ancient cannonballs and even more recent WWII artillery shells have been found, evidence of the historical strategic importance of the castle with views of the entire Chianti Classico area. The 3,000 acre estate includes 580 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards, ranging in altitude from 800 to 1,500 feet. Each plot is harvested and fermented separately with meticulous dedication.
Baron Francesco Ricasoli has been at the helm of the winery since 1993 and with the deepest respect for his renowned ancestors, he has guided the estate in innovation and sustainable vineyard practices. The ongoing study of soil types and the clonal selection of the Brolio Sangiovese are among his greatest passions and he has been responsible for total renovation and re-mapping of the vineyards. Today, the wines are a reflection of the family’s nine hundred year dedication to quality winemaking and innovation at the Brolio estate. - Folio Fine Wine
Follow the Ricasoli #winestudio chat on Twitter
January 14, 21, 28, February 4 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm ET
WSET Wine Educator Lyn Farmer @fizzfan
Week 1 - January 14: Ricasoli and the Birth of Modern Chianti
Ricasoli Brolio Chianti Classico 2016
Chianti Classico Riserva 2016
The Classifications
Overview of the Estate (maps) Origins of Chianti Classico
1872 Baron Bettino Ricasoli (1809 – 1880), illustrious politician and visionary wine entrepreneur, originated the formula for Chianti wine, now called Chianti Classico.
Week 2 - January 21: Legacy and Romance of the Brolio Estate
Ricasoli Castello di Brolio Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2015
Ricasoli Castello di Brolio Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2010
Significance of “Gran Selezione”
Romance of Brolio/Chianti
Estate: Gardens, Osteria, Agresto Guesthouse
Week 3 - January 28: The Power of Chianti Classico Terroir - How Merlot Imbues the Flavors of Tuscany
Ricasoli Casalferro Rosso 2011
Ricasoli Casalferro Rosso 2008
“Super Tuscans”
Recent changes to Chianti Classico "recipe"
Week 4 - February 4: Ricasoli Single Vineyard Crus: Clonal Research and Soil Mapping at Brolio
Ricasoli Colledila Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2015 | Ricasoli Roncicone Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione 2016
Clonal Research and Soil Mapping Efforts
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Bodegas LAN: Rioja Innovation and Evolution
Every wine brand has a culture, strategically built or cultivated. For Bodegas LAN, a relative newcomer on the Rioja scene, comparative to its peers, it seems strategy and cultivation go hand in hand.
LAN - an acronym based on the initials of each of the three provinces that form the D.O.Ca. Rioja: Logroño, Alava and Navarra - was founded in 1972 in the heart of Rioja Alta. Bodegas LAN’s attention to detail, pristine raw material and pioneering use of mixed oak barrels results in personality-first wines with vintage consistency.
LAN prides itself on its technical advances which ensure the protection and sustainability of its vineyards and the surrounding fauna and flora. This nurturing of viticulture creates the correct environment to pursue winemaker / technical director Maria Barúa’s tailored ageing system, which is the first of its kind in Rioja.
Follow the chat on Twitter:
Bodegas LAN #winestudio
November 5, 12, 19, 26 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm ET
WSET Wine Educator Lyn Farmer @fizzfan
Week 1 - November 5: Bodegas LAN Introduction > Historical & Topographical Overview
Overview of the region and wines
A feel for Rioja's topography and history—context for why Rioja had always been so inorganic which makes LAN's innovation all the more impressive
Tasting Crianza 2016 and Reserva 2012 from the Classic line
Hybrid Casks (American oak staves and French oak bottoms)
Week 2 - November 12: Modern Innovation
Insights into the winemaking process and the special story behind D12
Tasting Gran Reserva 2011 and D12 Crianza 2016 from the Classic line
Discuss research of French and American oak separately
Technical Director / Winemaker Maria Barua
Week 3 - November 19: Viña Lanciano > The Relationship between Vineyard & Oak
Digging deep into the vineyard and what makes it so special
Tasting Viña Lanciano 2012, Limitada 2016 from the Estate line
Russian oak | Spanish oak | Hungarian oak | Pyrenean oak - Maria is always experimenting What each imparts to the wines
Differences from forest to forest
Week 4 - November 26: Tech and Sustainability
Tech and sustainability efforts, now and future endeavors
Tasting Xtrème Ecológico Crianza 2015 - first organic wine newly available stateside
Barrel room - tailored ageing
#BodegasLAN
#Riojainthreeletters
#rioja
#LAN
#bodegaslan
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Dirt, Regenerative Farming and What Farming Truly Means to Today’s Young American Farmers - The Burnt Hill Project via Old Westminster Winery
Just six years ago, Maryland's Old Westminster Winery turned heads at Boston's Drink Local Conference. Today, they're in the midst of producing, as they call it, "an iconic Maryland red" at their newly planted Burnt Hill Farm. Drew calls this particular area the "mid-Maryland ridge," west of Sugarloaf Mountain and the BlueRidge.
“We’re going to challenge current beliefs with unique and transparent wines – wines that offer balance, nuance, and character. We’re going to farm thoughtfully, using biodiverse cover crops, biodynamic principles and incorporating animals. And then, in the winery, we’re going to craft wines with a light hand, ferment with indigenous yeast, and bottle it all without fining or filtration. These wines will be made without makeup – a pure reflection of the time and place where they’re grown and the people who guided the process." Drew Baker.
Follow the conversation:
Tuesdays - 9-10pm Twitter, hashtag: #winestudio
Week 1 - Tuesday 4 June: The American Family Farm > How Old Westminster Winery is Establishing a Farming Legacy
Introduction to the Baker family and Old Westminster Winery, Maryland
When the kids take over
The mid-Atlantic wine region
Soils, grapes, and Maryland farming
Week 2 - Tuesday 11 June: The Burnt Hill Project - “Wind blows, fire burns…”
Climate, Grapes, Soil and Biodynamics
Wine: 2017 Home Vineyard Cabernet Franc
Week 3 - Tuesday 18 June: Summer Solstice Festival - A Natural Wine Celebration
The Wine Festival is Dead, Long live the Wine Festival! Why this particular wine festival matters for the Mid-Atlantic Wine Region
Wine: 2018 Heirloom
Week 4 - Tuesday 25 June: The Afterglow of Solstice > Now What? A Family Moving Forward
Wine: Vin Doux Naturel
Don't get left behind! Join the Baker family at their new site, Burnt Hill Farm, for their inaugural Summer Solstice Festival 22 June.
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The Michigan Wine Collaborative
There's always one particular association that drives the advancement of a wine region. This is where the Michigan Wine Collaborative (MWC) shines!
"MWC’s mission it to enhance the sustainability and profitability of the Michigan wine industry by supporting wineries, growers and other businesses and individuals connected to the industry – today and for future generations. We focus on bringing Michigan wines to the global wine stage and creating a more inclusive wine industry."
The Collaborative is a non-profit organization which serves the Michigan wine industry and its consumers. MWC is a member-run organization comprised of winemakers, grape growers, suppliers/vendors, educators, industry affiliates, researchers/educators, consumers, and more. Their main mission is to enhance the sustainability and profitability of the Michigan wine industry. The immediate goal is to bring exposure to the industry and make Michigan wines more understood and accessible for wine lovers.
Follow hashtag #winestudio 9-10pm ET
5 February - An introduction to Michigan Wine
Michigan Wine Collaborative Director Emily Dockery
St. Julian Winery Lake Michigan Shore AVA
Winemaker: Nancie Oxley @stjulianwinery
12 February
St. Julian Winery Lake Michigan Shore AVA
Winemaker: Nancie Oxley @stjulianwinery
As Michigan’s oldest winery, St. Julian Winery truly reflects the soul of Michigan. For nearly 100 years they have focused on achieving the highest quality and consistency in their products. Through the years they have cultivated land in the state’s most premium appellation — Lake Michigan Shore, which has lead to their unrelenting commitment to using local fruit and resources to craft their exceptional products.
Their dedication to creating the finest quality from farm to bottle, while supporting the local community, has allowed the best of our state to shine through in every bottle. Over the past 15 years, St. Julian has focused on producing a new line of single variety wines. The grapes come from the vineyards in Southwest Michigan, producing top quality wines. In 1999, Braganini Reserve Meritage was “born” establishing a small lot production of dry, single variety wines. St. Julian now has over 15 Braganini Reserve wines ranging in many different winemaking styles.
Wines:
2017 Mountain Road Riesling ($19.99)
2017 Braganini Reserve Grüner Veltliner ($19.99)
Amoritas Vineyards Leelanau Peninsula AVA
Viticulturalist: Emily Goodell @AmoritasVines
Michael, Emily, and Matthew Goodell carry the torch of entrepreneurial wine industrialism, originally lit by wife & mother, Mary Northcutt, into the forefront of Michigan farmers and winemakers. Along with Matthew’s wife Nora, the team has forged ahead tirelessly, pursuing a goal to craft clean, delicate, and delicious wines. Wines created from grapes planted, nurtured, and harvested by hand on Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula.
Wine:
2016 Chardonnay ($21)
19 February
L. Mawby Winery Leelanau Peninsula AVA
Winemaker: Peter Laing @mibubbly
Fine, traditional method sparkling wines, classically styled, produced entirely from grapes grown on the Leelanau Peninsula. Mawby wines express the character of this special place, the care of the people tending the vines, and the purity of intent of those guiding the transformation of grape to sparkling wine.
Wine:
Blanc de Blanc ($25)
Big Little Wines Leelanau Peninsula AVA
Winemaker: Peter Laing @bigLITTLEwines
Big white wines. Little Leelanau Peninsula. Big brother. Little brother. Big passion. Little ego. The goal is to make full-bodied, hand crafted wines that are expressions of both staff and parents’ ten-acre vineyard in Lake Leelanau, Michigan.
Wine:
2017 Mixtape Field Blend 375ml can ($8.50)
Fenn Valley Vineyards Lake Michigan Shore AVA
Vice President and Winemaker Brian Lesperance @fennvalley
Fenn Valley Vineyards is a family owned and operated vineyard and winery complex established in 1973. Their goal has always been to produce world-class wines from grapes grown along the shore of Lake Michigan.
The Fenn Valley estate is a 240 acre farm located five miles from Lake Michigan just south of Holland, Michigan. The site was chosen after reviewing weather, climate, and soil survey maps. Unlike farmers who already own farm land and then begin to grow grapes, the Welsch family migrated from the Chicago area and were therefore free to select the most desirable site for viticulture based on the available data.
Wine:
2017 Pinot Grigio ($14.00)
Chateau Chantal Old Mission Peninsula AVA
Director of Marketing: Kyle Brownley @ChateauChantal
The Begin family, Robert, Nadine and daughter Marie-Chantal, opened the doors of friendly hospitality in 1993 upon the completion of a French style three room B&B, winery and vineyard estates. Focusing on Michigan wines, they produce Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc and other varietals.
Perhaps even more interesting than the magical story of winemaking is the history of the Chateau’s founding couple, Robert and Nadine. Their fascinating tale begins with two previous careers of service to others. As a Catholic diocesan priest for 12 years, Robert worked in his home area of Detroit until a decision was made in 1972 to begin again as a businessman heading a construction business. Nadine had taken a similar path by entering the Felician Sisters in 1950. After earning her Master’s Degree in Home Economics and teaching for 22 years, she too made a decision to seek a different life. Married in 1974, the couple followed Robert’s dream of building a European style winery chateau.
Wine:
30 Year Vineyard Reserve Chardonnay ($30)
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The Coravin Chronicles: from Tech Device to "Best Friend"
Coravin is a wine preservation system that allows for all of us to enjoy drinking wine by the glass without ever pulling the cork!
For our Twitter discussion, we’ll be chatting with Peter Johnson, AVA Wine Manager at Coravin Tuesday, 4 December, then Greg Lambrecht, Founder and Inventor of Coravin on Tuesday 11 December.
Our topics for the program:
- Advancements within the World of Wine and Coravin's place within Wine's History
- The Future of Wine - Coravin as a driving force in the five years since its inception
- Changing the Restaurant Industry - Freedom by the glass
- Taking Wine Education to a Whole New Level
As always on #winestudio, we'll have a live, frank conversation!
Join us online, Twitter hashtag #winestudio Tuesdays, 4 and 11 December 9-10pmET.
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Acker Merrall & Condit - Redefining Wine Culture
Established in 1820, Acker Merrall & Condit is the oldest wine merchant in America, and has been the largest and most influential wine purveyors in the world. And yet, most folks most likely have never heard of them. So Acker Merrall is on a mission to change that.
I used to work directly within auctions, and I get it, the whole process can be daunting. I've had several phone calls with the Acker team, who you'll meet online, and I have to say, they are a bunch of crazy wine geeks who, collectively, have worked for Acker Merrall & Condit for almost forty years, and today, that says a lot.
Acker prides itself as being uniquely welcoming to all walks of wine lover – from the novice inquisitor to the well-established collector, bringing new, unique and truly extraordinary experiences to all. The Acker approach is to “combine our expertise with yours, fostering, stoking and building upon a love of wine and the wine-enhanced lifestyle – from world-class auctions, to wines for your dinner table, to daily tastings, a killer wine club, corporate services and customized, once-in-a-lifetime wine experiences. It’s all here at Acker Merrall & Condit, and we are waiting for you, glass in hand."
As always with #winestudio, wine serves as vehicle for conversation and inclusiveness. This extraordinary program is more about opening wine to showcase the diversity of offerings, affordable AND aspirational quality. Embracing that wine is experiential and part of a lively, happy, lifestyle focused on joie di vivre; deliberately taking moments, minutes and hours, to savor special times with friends and loved ones over fine food and wine, creating sensory memories that last a lifetime.
The Acker Merrall & Condit team likes to say: “all wine in all ways." Awesome.
As a thank you, Acker Merrall & Condit has given us a discount code: enter #winestudio in Special Notes at checkout for 10% off your first purchase for retail wine sales. (Discount reflected on final invoice. Exclusions apply.)
The Acker Merrall & Condit team on #winestudio:
Samantha Compono
Samantha has been a member of the Acker Merrall & Condit team for over a decade. She earned her undergraduate degree from Bucknell University and shortly after college, in pursuit of her passions for food, wine, and travel, she studied with the Wine & Spirit Education Trust in New York City, earning her Advanced Certification with Distinction. She joined Acker Merrall & Condit in 2006, contributing to more than 350 live and online auctions in New York, Chicago, Europe and Hong Kong. She assisted in the coordination and execution of the Tsar’s Treasure auction in the Aland Islands, where a new world record for the world’s oldest and most expensive bottle of champagne was auctioned in 2011. She currently serves as auctioneer and Director of Operations.
Lily Mirabelle Freedman
Lily grew up in the New York City restaurant business which fostered her love of collecting and learning about fine and rare wine. While pursuing a degree at the University of Chicago, she worked in the kitchens of Daniel Boulud and Missy Robbins to learn the intricacies of the restaurant world. After college, she worked as a recipe developer at Bon Appetit Magazine and on several cookbooks. Lily spent a year as the client relations specialist at WineCredit, a specialty lender in the wine space, becoming an expert on the global wine market and cellar liquidation. She has served as the sommelier for Acker Merrall & Condit since 2014 and is a Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers. As a Junior Partner in their Wine Workshop program, Lily orchestrates tastings of the world’s rarest wines and works with winemakers and wine critics to create the ultimate wine experience for novices and experts alike.
Cliff Korn
Cliff began his career at Acker Merrall & Condit in Sales and Management in the fall of 1996 upon completion of his undergraduate studies at the University of California at Santa Barbara. In his over 22 years at Acker, Cliff has run Sales, served as Wine Buyer, managed the Retail Store operation, and now heads the Business Development Department. In addition to his years of work at Acker, Cliff also ran a retail shop and wine list for a major restaurant in Santa Barbara called the Montecito Wine Bistro, and started his own winery in 2008 called ‘No Limit Wines’, which focuses on Rhone varieties in the Central Coast of California. Cliff is an avid NY Mets and Rangers fan, and a native New Yorker.
#winestudio Tuesdays November 9-10pm EST @AckerMerrall
Week 1: Tuesday, November 6 - Building a Killer Wine Collection: Demystifying Wine Auctions
Acker Merrall & Condit will be celebrating its 200th anniversary! We'll discuss how the company earned its reputation by having the best customer service in the industry and has provided expert wine services for nearly two centuries. Acker Merrall offers a vast array of services including a deep inventory of fine & rare wine, recommendations on new releases, first class wine education amenities, in-store tastings and their business foundation: fine & rare wine auctions.
--Building a Comprehensive Wine Collection through AM&C
--The AM&C Wine Auction - What to Know!
--The AM&C Wine Auction - Creating an Inclusive Experience
--“all wine in all ways” - AM&C - Auctions, Fine & Rare Retail, Education, Tastings
Whilst discussing the above, we'll be sipping on these beauties:
2000 JJ Christoffel Riesling Spatlese Erdener Treppchen
2006 Palomita Syrah Hamilton Vineyard
2000 Chateau Latour Carnet
#ackerwines #ackerauctions
Week 2: Tuesday, November 13 - Badass Holiday Wines & Building Your Wine Cellar
The holiday season is upon us and that means even more reasons to rely on the experts at Acker Merrall. Wine and spirits make excellent holiday gifts (in various bottle sizes) for everyone on your list! We'll discuss holiday gatherings with family, friends and co-workers and how a well-chosen bottle makes a perfect gift that the recipient will always remember – especially if consumed together!
--Holiday Gifting
--Cellar Collecting - Why Provenance & Storage are so Important!
--Spirits and Beverage Tools
--“Wow” Wines for your Holiday Table!
Whilst discussing the above, we'll be sipping on these bottles:
Ruinart
Orin Swift, 2017 8 Years in the Desert
#ackerwines #wineauctions
Week 3: Tuesday, November 20 - “More Than a Wine Merchant” – The Accessible Luxury Lifestyle & Redefining Wine Culture
Acker Merrall, with 200 years of experience in the wine industry, is the ideal resource for anyone who loves wine, whether you’re just a beginner or an established collector. From their super easy auctions, to fine and rare retail, corporate resources, in-store tastings and of course education, Acker Merrall is redefining what wine culture is today.
What Redefining Luxury Wine Culture looks like - 200 years worth!
Education through Acker Merrall & Condit > #wineworkshop
Auctioning 101 Tips and Best Practices
Non-Traditional Wine and Meal Pairings from the experts at Acker Merrall!
#ackerwines #wineauction
Week 4: Tuesday, November 27 - “A Case in Point”: The Acker Wine Club
So what makes the Acker Merrall Wine Club different than other wine clubs? Tune in and find out with the Acker team!
We'll be enjoying this lovely:
Reserve Club selection: Frank Family Vineyards, 2015 Zinfandel Napa Valley
#ackerwines #wineauction
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The Wild West of San Diego Wine
San Diego has everything! Perfect weather, mountains, beach and deserts all within an hour, a powerful military presence, killer food scene, a fanatical beer contingent and robust tourism. What it lacks is a dedicated wine culture. Which is interesting because San Diego is the oldest wine region in California and also the youngest.
There are about 200 AVAs (American Viticultural Area) in the U.S. And three of them reside within San Diego County, which is the size of the combined states of Rhode Island and Delaware. The largest of these AVAs - South Coast, stretches from Malibu down to the Mexican border which includes San Diego. Contained within is the San Pasqual Valley AVA, established in 1981, and covers 9,000 acres on the banks of the San Dieguito River near Escondido. And the other is the Ramona Valley AVA, established in 2006, covering 89,000 acres surrounding the town of Ramona.
And the weather that most cite as near to perfect? It is, especially for grapes! San Diego boasts a mild mediterranean climate, little rainfall, wind (desert), fog, (ocean) elevation (mountains) including deep, granitic soils and chaparral vegetation. Which means, many vines can be grown sustainably, without reliance on pesticides and can capture ambient yeasts to provide distinct flavour profiles.
And the best part about San Diego wine? It remains a smallish community of winemakers and wine lovers who work tirelessly to preserve and educate about the gem that is San Diego.
There are many people who have worked tirelessly to place San Diego on the world wine map. But none has done so with such coolness and ease as Tami Wong CS. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Tami in the past and I recently caught up with her during her 2nd Annual NatDiego Festival. Read more about Tami here. She’ll be our guide throughout #winestudio October.
What I’ve learned about the people behind San Diego wine is a willingness to experiment and explore, so perhaps not having a yet dedicated wine culture is exactly the kind of culture that breeds innovation and exploration. It’s that freedom that comes with a re-burgeoning of a wine region that’s ripe with excitement--the wild west!
Twitter hashtag #winestudio 9-10pmET
2 October @Stehleon @VesperVineyards
Stehleon Vineyards 2015 Grenache Blanc Sunrise Ranch, San Diego County | SRP: $23
Owner: Al Stehly | Winemaker: Alysha Stehly
Vesper Vineyards 2013 Carignan McCormick Ranch, San Diego County | SRP: $25
Owners: Alysha Stehly & Chris Broomell | Winemakers: Alysha Stehly & Chris Broomell
9 October @DomaineArtefact @AltipianoWinery
Domaine Artefact 2017 Les Printemps Grenache Rosé, San Diego County | SRP: $30
Domaine Artefact 2016 Estate Rincon del Diablo, San Diego County | SRP: $45
Owners: Mark Robinson and Lynn LaChapelle | Winemaker: Mark Robinson
Altipiano Vineyard & Winery NV Estate Barbera, San Diego County | SRP: $58
Altipiano Vineyard & Winery 2016 Estate Sangiovese Reserve, San Diego County | SRP: $65
Owners: Peter and Denise Clarke | Winemaker: Denise Clarke
16 October @CharlieEchoWine
Charlie & Echo 2017 Viognier, Warner Springs, San Diego County | SRP: $23.00
Charlie & Echo 2017 Darkstar, Warner Springs, San Diego County (47% Syrah 53% Zinfandel | SRP: $21-26
Owners / Winemakers: Clara and Eric Van Drunen
23 October @KoiZenCellars
Koi Zen Cellars 2016 Paso Syrah | SRP: $33
Owners / Winemakers: Lisa and Darius Miller
Stay tuned, more to come!
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The Cariñena Garnacha #winestudio Road Tour
On the heels of the Global Garnacha Summit held in Napa Valley recently, we'll be exploring Cariñena - the birthplace from which Garnacha / Grenache has been cultivated around the world.
We all know Grenache, and we know Garnacha - same grape, grown in different parts of the world. What’s particularly special about this grape, is its ability to reflect the soil where it’s grown, adapt to climatic changes and moreso lends itself to a winemaker’s interpretation for the finished wine.
D.O.P. Cariñena is located in the heart of the Ebro Valley in Spain’s northeast region of Aragón, bordered by the Pyrenees and France to the north, and Catalunya to the east. The region’s prominent strategic situation as a gateway to the rest of Europe has long defined centuries of winemaking history, dating back to the Roman era. Planted at high altitude, the vineyards descend into dramatic windswept plains that benefit from extreme day-to-night temperature differences, ideal conditions for rich, expressive wines crafted from layers of rock, mineral, and earth.
We’re joined by Lyn Farmer, James Beard Award-winning wine and food writer and WSET Instructor, who’ll guide us through the many facets of Garnacha, including the ins and outs of D.O.P Cariñena. @FizzFan
Global Garnacha:
The Global Garnacha Summit, which took place at CIA at Copia in Napa in April, was an innovative and immersive experience for attendees passionate about Garnacha/Grenache. Space was limited for the event during this first edition but have no fear – highlights from the experience can be found right here in a video showcasing seminars, panelists’ insights and more.
Twitter hashtag #winestudio 9-10pmET @VinosCarinena
Week 1 September 11 - Winemaker’s Choice within DOP Cariñena - Style, Expectations, Labels
Grandes Vinos
Grandes Vinos has the distinction of working with vineyards in each of the 14 growing areas of D.O.P. Cariñena. The result is a depth of product that is a perfect complement to the spirit of creativity and innovation that has defined the company since it was founded in 1997.
The Cariñena Culture
-the culture, people, growing regions, restaurant and bar scene…
We Taste and discuss Grandes Vinos! Label Terms
El Circo Garnacha 2017
100% Garnacha
SRP: $9.99
Monasterio Old Vine Garnacha 2016
100% Garnacha
SRP: $17.99
Style, Innovation, Creativity
Expectations from the Winery Perspective
Week 2 September 18 - Garnacha > The Giving Grape: terroir friendly, best practices, vine age, new plantings
Bodegas Paniza
Founded in 1953, Bodegas Paniza is named for the village where the winery is located, and where growers have cared for their vineyards for generations. The winery is situated in the highest elevation area of D.O.P. Cariñena to the south, at the rise of the Sistema Ibérico Mountain range, which brings cooling influences even in the peak of summer.
Cariñena “one of the oldest protected growing areas in Europe"
-what this means and how international varieties fit within
The Sistema Ibérico Mountain Range
terroir / climate
topography (ruggedness)
“crafted in stone”
Viñas Viejas de Paniza Garnacha 2012
100% Garnacha
SRP: $15-$20
Artigazo Edicion Limitada 2014
40% Garnacha, 30% Syrah, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon
SRP $20-$25
D.O.P. Carinena Characteristics
-The Garnacha Grape:
•Large berries = good yield w/o overcropping
•Thin skins = Medium (+/-) color
•High sugars = high alcohol, often full-bodied
•Low acidity, Soft tannins
•Red fruit dominant; Develops leathery notes with age
The Concept of Co-operatives and the local economy
-understanding the overall success of the region. In the states we have this tendency to poo-poo wines that are not single source but of course co-ops provide consistent quality and value.
Week 3 September 25 - The First Global Garnacha Summit - What We Learned > the Bright Future of Garnacha
Bodegas San Valero
A leading winery since 1944, Bodegas San Valero (Grupo BSV) has the longest history in Cariñena and has benefitted from access to some of the most prominent vineyards in the region for over 70 years.
Particular Garnacha 2017
100% Garnacha
SRP: $8.99-$10.99
Particular Old Vine Garnacha 2015
100% Garnacha
SRP: $10-$15
The #GlobalGarnachaSummit
#DOPCarinena
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
On the heels of the Global Garnacha Summit held in Napa Valley recently, we'll be exploring Cariñena - the birthplace from which Garnacha / Grenache has been cultivated around the world.
We all know Grenache, and we know Garnacha - same grape, grown in different parts of the world. What’s particularly special about this grape, is its ability to reflect the soil where it’s grown, adapt to climatic changes and moreso lends itself to a winemaker’s interpretation for the finished wine.
D.O.P. Cariñena is located in the heart of the Ebro Valley in Spain’s northeast region of Aragón, bordered by the Pyrenees and France to the north, and Catalunya to the east. The region’s prominent strategic situation as a gateway to the rest of Europe has long defined centuries of winemaking history, dating back to the Roman era. Planted at high altitude, the vineyards descend into dramatic windswept plains that benefit from extreme day-to-night temperature differences, ideal conditions for rich, expressive wines crafted from layers of rock, mineral, and earth.
We’re joined by Lyn Farmer, James Beard Award-winning wine and food writer and WSET Instructor, who’ll guide us through the many facets of Garnacha, including the ins and outs of D.O.P Cariñena. @FizzFan
Global Garnacha:
The Global Garnacha Summit, which took place at CIA at Copia in Napa in April, was an innovative and immersive experience for attendees passionate about Garnacha/Grenache. Space was limited for the event during this first edition but have no fear – highlights from the experience can be found right here in a video showcasing seminars, panelists’ insights and more.
Twitter hashtag #winestudio 9-10pmET @VinosCarinena
Week 1 September 11 - Winemaker’s Choice within DOP Cariñena - Style, Expectations, Labels
Grandes Vinos
Grandes Vinos has the distinction of working with vineyards in each of the 14 growing areas of D.O.P. Cariñena. The result is a depth of product that is a perfect complement to the spirit of creativity and innovation that has defined the company since it was founded in 1997.
The Cariñena Culture
-the culture, people, growing regions, restaurant and bar scene…
We Taste and discuss Grandes Vinos! Label Terms
El Circo Garnacha 2017
100% Garnacha
SRP: $9.99
Monasterio Old Vine Garnacha 2016
100% Garnacha
SRP: $17.99
Style, Innovation, Creativity
Expectations from the Winery Perspective
Week 2 September 18 - Garnacha > The Giving Grape: terroir friendly, best practices, vine age, new plantings
Bodegas Paniza
Founded in 1953, Bodegas Paniza is named for the village where the winery is located, and where growers have cared for their vineyards for generations. The winery is situated in the highest elevation area of D.O.P. Cariñena to the south, at the rise of the Sistema Ibérico Mountain range, which brings cooling influences even in the peak of summer.
Cariñena “one of the oldest protected growing areas in Europe"
-what this means and how international varieties fit within
The Sistema Ibérico Mountain Range
terroir / climate
topography (ruggedness)
“crafted in stone”
Viñas Viejas de Paniza Garnacha 2012
100% Garnacha
SRP: $15-$20
Artigazo Edicion Limitada 2014
40% Garnacha, 30% Syrah, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon
SRP $20-$25
D.O.P. Carinena Characteristics
-The Garnacha Grape:
•Large berries = good yield w/o overcropping
•Thin skins = Medium (+/-) color
•High sugars = high alcohol, often full-bodied
•Low acidity, Soft tannins
•Red fruit dominant; Develops leathery notes with age
The Concept of Co-operatives and the local economy
-understanding the overall success of the region. In the states we have this tendency to poo-poo wines that are not single source but of course co-ops provide consistent quality and value.
Week 3 September 25 - The First Global Garnacha Summit - What We Learned > the Bright Future of Garnacha
Bodegas San Valero
A leading winery since 1944, Bodegas San Valero (Grupo BSV) has the longest history in Cariñena and has benefitted from access to some of the most prominent vineyards in the region for over 70 years.
Particular Garnacha 2017
100% Garnacha
SRP: $8.99-$10.99
Particular Old Vine Garnacha 2015
100% Garnacha
SRP: $10-$15
The #GlobalGarnachaSummit
#DOPCarinena
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Tasting Ancient with Terra Sancta Trading Company Owner Jason Bajalia
“No-doubt everyone has their own perception of the Middle East; but politics aside, through Terra Sancta I not only want to introduce the products to the U.S., but also help people understand the importance of the Levant [Eastern Mediterranean] today. Not a lot of people realize this is where wine originally came from. It’s where beer came from. The role this part of the world has played in shaping the beverage industry as we know it today is grossly underestimated.” Jason Bajalia, Terra Sancta
Food and wine unite people because it’s normal. Let me say that again: eating and drinking is a normal past-time of all peoples, regardless of political machinations.
This particular program is not about politics, although I would be remiss if I didn’t state that politics can and do play roles in our daily lives, not just in our food and wine choices. But this program is not about politics, it’s about reintroducing an ancient area of winemaking--quite possibly the original regions for winemaking on the planet! And why it is so important to understand it.
The Levant
The Levant is an approximate historical geographical term referring to a large area in the Eastern Mediterranean. The term is used to refer to modern events or states in the region immediately bordering the eastern Mediterranean Sea: Cyprus, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria.
Population: 44,550,926
Largest cities: Damascus; Amman; Aleppo; Baghdad; Beirut; Gaza; Jerusalem; Tel Aviv
Languages: Levantine Arabic, Hebrew, Aramaic, Armenian, Circassian, Greek, Kurdish, Ladino, Turkish, Domari
Commonalities in the Levant
Regardless of many differences, the people living in this region have many similarities that unite them culturally as a part of the Eastern Mediterranean. Visit any household or restaurant and you will assuredly find mezze (appetizers on small plates), indigenous spirits, strong, dark coffee and wine. Long before the vine reached Europe, grapes were cultivated here. In fact, winemaking was ingrained in the history, religion, folklore of this ancient region--it was THE lifestyle.
Terra Sancta
Through close relationships the Bajalia brothers maintain with their suppliers, they continue to invest countless hours speaking with growers and businesses in the Eastern Mediterranean, and shaping the strategic growth of Terra Sancta in the U.S.
The Levant is a fascinating wine region with a perfect climate, elevations, terroir, indigenous varieties and modern technology in vineyards and wineries. The wine industry compares New World and Old World wines. This region represents the Ancient World.
Twitter hashtag #winestudio 9-10pmET
Week 1 - August 7 - Terra Sancta and Jason Bajalia @TerraSanctaCo
The Impetus for Terra Sancta Trading
--Introduction to Jason Bajalia and the family business
The Levant Discussion - Context
--Where and What comprises this region?
--Cultural similarities within this vast region
--Agriculture
Birthplace of Winemaking
--Winemaking is ingrained in the history, religion and folklore of this ancient region--it was THE lifestyle.
--Anthony Bourdain and Parts Unknown
--How does Terra Sancta keep this a reality?
A Glimpse into the next three weeks
--What to know now...
--wine regulations
--challenges winemakers face
--# of wineries in the Levant
Anthony Bourdain and Palestine.
Week 2 - August 14 - Introduction to Cremisan Winery and the Idea of Origin
Introduction to Cremisan Winery
--Major Players
--viti / vini
We taste!
--grapes
--Cremisan is the only winery in the world making wine from Dabouki
Arak Ramallah, the national beverage
--Palestinian culture
Origins
--resurgence of the ancient varieties
Tasting: Cremisan Wine Estate 2016 West Bank Dabouki
Week 3 - August 21 - Leading the Ancient Indigenous Movement
Tourism and the West Bank
--Can tourism play a role in West Bank Tourism? What would that look like?
Landscape: landscape and what's conducive to the growing, maintaining and local livelihood associated with winemaking in Bethlehem.
Politics and Tourism
Overcoming years of bias
Cremisan Winery - Leading the Ancient Indigenous Movement
--A Cremisan future in terms of ancient grapes and the addition of international grapes
Tasting: Cremisan Wine Estate 2014 West Bank Baladi
Week 4 - August 28 - Ancient Terroir
The Complete Landscape
--Agriculture
--Regional foods
--Companion Agriculture
Ancient Terroir
--Grapes
--Soils
--Climate
--Vines
--Modern Approach
Winemaking Styles
--Yeasts
--Premox
--Reductive vs Oxidative
--Bottle ageing
Recap
--Overall view of Palestinian winemaking
--West Bank's future in the world wine arena
Tasting: Cremisan Wine Estate 2016 West Bank Hamdani/Jandali
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#winestudio and Wines of Italy Celebration Program!
A 50-Harvests Story of Family, Friends and Memories at Montefioralle Winery
This particular #winestudio is a celebration of itself. I had an opportunity for a conversation with Katarina Andersson of Wines of Italy and we hit it off immediately. She is a true lover of Italy - highlighting those smaller producers that are the true backbone of the Italian wine scene - many family-owned and always so generous of wine, time and knowledge.
Most of my time prior to a #winestudio program is researching: the winery, people, the wine, the region, and typically the writing comes easy. This time however, I had a difficult time organizing my thoughts and notes for our program; Not because of any issues but because the researching awoke some of my own Italian family memories. So this particular program is quite bittersweet for me, the #50 holding very special things.
The Sieni Family
The Sieni family is celebrating 50 Harvests of Montefioralle in grand style--watch the video! It reminds me of my own family, the older men talking amongst themselves, in their quasi Italian-English mix, representing both the part of them that was Italy then and the US today. Azienda Agricola Montefioralle is a true family-run winery, with only 5 acres of vineyards, one of the smallest wineries among the consortium of Chianti Classico producers.
This small quantity production enables the Sieni family to take care of every little detail in order to produce high quality Chianti Classico. And yes, this is a short amount of time especially coming from the “old world” but the history of the area is ancient.
Right Place, Right Time
Katarina had the opportunity to attend the press conference of the Associazione Viticoltori Montefioralle, an association of wine producers in the area around the village Montefioralle, a small hamlet not far from Greve in Chianti, with a history that can be traced back to the Roman era. The conference centered around finding that specific “terroir” that is indicative of the Montefioralle area. A calling card if you will: an artist’s brush, a musician’s note or a dancer’s step.
They’ve identified a “peculiarity of the soil” and a “microclimate” which is said to give the Sangiovese grapes their unique character. Their mission is to produce wines “con carattere“! The Montefioralle area, from a geological point of view, is different than other areas in Tuscany. The possibility of a glacier could be the reason why there is up to 50% loam in certain plots around the little hamlet. Montefioralle wines have been described as elegant, with softer tannins than other Chianti Classico wines, with refined notes of fruit, and a bit of spice.
The Siena family’s vineyards, the winery, the cellar, and the shop are all located in the small medieval hamlet of Montefioralle-where there is approximately 70 inhabitants! It has become a history-buff and wine-tasting dream!
Some words tooling around the internet describing Azienda Agricola Montefioralle:
-- A gem amongst the grapes! | A great experience! | Fabulous little winery! | Superb wine tasting and visit | Small slice of heaven --
You get the idea.
The first harvest of the Sieni family was in 1968. It was only in the 1990s that the family could acquire the winery when the Church decided to sell off the vineyards. This year it will be 50 years since their first harvest at the Montefioralle winery and they are celebrating in grand style, with us! Click here for information on all of their festivities, leading up to their September harvest.
Join #winestudio and Wines of Italy Live Stream on the below dates and time as we discuss Montefioralle with Lorenzo Sieni!
July 3
WinesofItaly live stream 3:00pm - 3:30pmET
A Discussion of Winery Memories with Fernando and Lorenzo Sieni
#winestudio 3:30pm - 4:00pmET
Painting a Picture of Montefioralle Winery
Tasting the Vin Santo del C.C. 2014
The #50Harvests Campaign - Then and Now
July 10 WinesofItaly live stream 3pmET + #winestudio 9:00pmET
Montefioralle:
Operations / Geography
Tourism
#50Harvests
Montefioralle Chianti Classico DOCG 2015
Montefioralle Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2014
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The True “Wow” Factor of Rosé and its Design Influence on Wine Labels
The brilliant part about rosé is its ever-changing landscape: a plethora of colors, complexity, grape varieties, production methods, styles and flavour profiles. And rosé is neither governed by any set of wine rules nor would it want to be anything other than delicious! So then, what’s next for a rosé evolution from the industry side?
For that matter, what about consumers? Majority of wine drinkers have at least a “working” relationship with rosé now, meaning we understand that the pink liquid can be and mean many things depending on how, where, why and with whom we’re drinking.
I recently connected with Oenographic Design founder Jeff Gilligan whose Instagram account reads like only cool profiles would: Oenographic celebrate(s) the best of DESIGN + WINE - #oenographic to share your favorite wine labels! and I thought, hey now, how cool would it be to design a program based on what’s inside the bottle and what’s wrapped around it.
As Elizabeth Gabay MW and author of Rosé - Understanding the Pink Wine Revolution said: “...the real pink revolution is only just beginning.”
I’m a huge fan of Zelda Sydney, WSET Diploma graduate, illustrator, technical editor, artist and writer. Zelda was interviewed last year by Cathy Huyghe for Forbes regarding animated tasting notes so I thought it paramount to include her in this design-centered program. And I love what she’s written here: “What wine "is," what it touches, and how it relates to us as humans is as fantastic a subject for an artist as it is for a writer.”
Twitter hashtag #winestudio 9-10pmET
Week 1 - June 5: Babylonstoren 2016 Mourvedre Rosé, Simonsberg-Paarl, Western Cape SA $22
Alyssan and Ian Wolf own Red Wolf Imports - an importing company created solely for South African wines after they vacationed in the winelands!
Artist: The laser-etched symbol on this bottle is the Babylonstoren logo, consisting of the pipe (representing the farmer), the flower (representing the garden) and the bird (representing nature). It is a combination of the very essence of Babylonstoren – keeping things simple and as true to the earth as possible.
(And this is one of the most beautiful wineries I’ve ever seen! And I’ve never been there!)
Week 2 - June 12: Eric Kent Wine Cellars 2017 Rosé, Sonoma County, CA $22
If you don’t know Kent Humphrey and his wife, partner Colleen Teitgen, you will now. Kent has no formal winemaking degree but he has loads of experience working with icons. And Colleen, now an artist and curator of their galleries, oversees their original dream: combining their shared passions in wine and art.
Artist: Yellena James
Week 3 - June 19: Bedell Cellars 2017 Taste Rosé, Long Island, NY $18
Art collector Michael Lynne purchased the winery, which is considered to be a benchmark for quality in the Eastern US, from the Bedells in 2000 and since has incorporated world-renowned contemporary artists to accompany their award-winning wines of winemaker Richard Olsen-Harbich.
Artist: Barbara Kruger
Week 4 - June 26: Domaine Paul Mas 2017 Côté Mas Rosé Aurore Languedoc, France
In 2012, Jean-Claude’s philosophy of “Luxe Rural--an appreciation of the simple pleasures of life, artfully rendered by nature--crystallized with the opening of the Côté Mas Restaurant where the wines were first introduced, and became so popular that they are now available worldwide!
Aurore will be #winestudio’s second vintage, all through the generosity of Patricia Clough of Gregory + Vine. The label is an eye-catching pastel drawing of the original family estate in the Art Nouveau style. Jean-Claude worked to find an artist who had the Toulouse Lautrec style.
Special Guest: Guillaume Virsolvy, Sales and Marketing Manager of the Americas. Guillaume is a native of Languedoc and has been with the brand for about four years. @paul_mas
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Ethan Joseph, Winemaker of Iapetus Wines and Shelburne Vineyard!
Ethan joins us to discuss his new project, Iapetus as well as winegrowing in the Champlain Valley, history of Iapetus and where Ethan's style of winemaking fits within the Vermont wine scene as well as its place on the world wine stage.
Our guests: Ethan Joseph, Iapetus Wine and Shelburne Vineyard Winemaker and Samuel Rheaume, Events and Marketing Specialist, Shelburne Vineyard.
I had the pleasure of meeting Ethan at an event back in 2016 when I visited Vermont. Besides his fiery red hair and beard, there is an electricity about Ethan - perhaps it's his relative youth or maybe an exuberance of winemaking - regardless, he's quite magnetic - and I think all of these qualities are reflected in Iapetus. What a treat for #winestudio!
Twitter hashtag #winestudio 9-10pmET @IapetusWine
Week 1 May 22
Context - Personal Background and Interests
Winegrowing in the Champlain Valley
Iapetus Story - History: the ocean, geologic, why this name?
Present Day and Philosophy
Week 2 May 29
We Drink! Viticulture
Iapetus 2016 Tectonic - Tectonic is a unique white wine made by allowing white grapes to ferment on their skins. Named after the awesome forces beneath our feet, this unfiltered wine reminds us that not all is apparent on the surface. Let this wine move you.
Winemaking - Wine as Environment
Hybrids - Grapes
How the Geologic Process created the Iapetus Wine Narrative and its Future Direction
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CRAFT WINE ASSOCIATION
#winestudio is an inclusionary program - no matter how large or small the organization, we discuss it all. Of course, for those larger wineries / organizations, a lot of the work to have arrived at their larger state has taken place. But what about the smaller wineries? the budding wineries - especially for today’s flooded wine market, where do they go for advice, education and outreach?
Carole Lawson identified this untapped white space and she set out to do something about it. Carole brings two decades of experience working in innovation in the Silicon Valley region — with a focus on data and social media — to members of her recently formed CRAFT WINE ASSOCIATION. In 2016, her passion for wineries and winemakers led her to complete graduate work in marketing management at Harvard University, with a research focus on the wine industry.
Carole is an innovator, a tech geek, a disruptor and a Certified Sommelier. I was recently introduced to her through a #winestudio regular, David Nershi, and I became enamored with her enthusiasm and determination for the Craft Wine Industry.
Twitter hashtag #winestudio 9-10pmET
Innovator Carole Lawson Approaches the Craft Wine Movement as Emerging Tech
8 May - Session 1: Recognizing the White Space
The mastermind behind Craft Wine: Carole Lawson @craftwineorg
Tech and innovation - use what you know!
Craft Wine Impetus - coaxing the craft from creatives
Introduction to Joe Brock and Matt Kemberling - Creators of the popular North Carolina Wine Guys @NCWineGuys with the objective to elevate North Carolina wine within the state and beyond. Great wine is being produced in North Carolina, but many have no idea!
Craft Wine
Musicians / artists / winemakers / farmers - all play a part
Words resonate! handmade
Polls / Surveys
15 May - Session 2: Craft Wine - Not Bound by the Thinking of the Industry
What Craft Wine means to the Wine Industry
Why certification matters
5k or less production
Cultural Changes
For small winemakers, getting product to market is literally a message in a bottle, here is how The Craft Wine Association can help consumers find craft wines:
Certification
The Craft Wine Certification puts your brand in front of consumers as an individualized style of winemaking, with a higher quality than competition from larger, national brands.
Membership benefits include education and outreach, conducted by the Craft Wine Association on behalf of its members, through search visibility, social media, and a robust PR list.
@NCWineGuys Joe and Matt have been getting the word out about North Carolina since January 2013! We’ll talk in depth with them about how they approach this subject.
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Ca'Marcanda: When International Varieties Meet Etruscan Soils
The best thing I ever did was to leave my home state of New Jersey, not because it lacked (as we were recently made quite aware for a previous #winestudio,) but because letting other places in makes us appreciate more of what life has to offer. The perspective gained by experiencing different locales, cultures and people is vital to the success of one's self. And Angelo Gaja knew it.
We're led through the following weeks by Terlato National Wine Educator Tim Clark.
Twitter hashtag #winestudio 9-10pmET
Week 1 March 6
Welcome to Ca’Marcanda - Inspiration > Negotiation > Realization on the Coast of the Etruscans
- How the perspective of travel influenced a winemaker and thus a winery
- Ca’Marcanda the house of endless negotiations - took 18 trips to complete negotiations for the 1996 purchase of the historic 250-acre Bolgheri estate
- Bolgheri: the birthplace of modern Italian wine – where new world meets old world
- Ca’Marcanda was conceived to be an integral and organic element in Bolgheri’s landscape and viticulture as well as a source of pride for the family
- The focus at Ca’Marcanda is on international grape varieties, and the estate’s 150 acres are planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Syrah vines
Week 2 March 13
Influence of Color - When the Color of Soil Bleeds into Ca’Marcanda Aesthetics
- Angelo Gaja saw potential in the natural landscape and strives to keep it true to the region by continually innovating best practices
- Label design, winery aesthetics
- All this lends itself to a state-of-the-art winery that blends in with its surroundings--becoming ever more invisible as the natural elements take over
Tasting:
Promis 2015 SRP $48
Week 3 March 20
Sparking a Movement with International Varieties in ancient Soils
- Though international, these wines are unique to Tuscany
- terre brune (“dark earth“) and terre bianche (“white earth“)
- Fully ripened fruit with balanced acidity
- Innovation - A new world region with an old history
- Soil maps and vines - reading the elements, planting, removing and replanting
Tasting:
Magari 2015 SRP $65
Week 4 March 27
Ca’Marcanda is Bolgheri
- Ca’Marcanda, the winery’s flagship wine, is made using fruit cultivated in Bolgheri’s coveted terre bianche with a high composition of calcareous clay, ideal for crafting long-term aging
- Twenty years of commitment, experimentation and research to fully express the characteristics of the soils, to elevate the wines’ aging potential and their elegance
- The Ca’Marcanda estate, which Wine Spectator called “a monument to new-wave winemaking in Tuscany” inspired a new path for many winemakers
- Nature here remains somewhat in a pristine state: woods dominate the eastern hillsides, protecting vineyards from winter’s cold; and the sea sparkles just to the west, which mitigates the heat of July and August with its cooling breeze
Tasting:
Ca'Marcanda 2013 SRP $145
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Beginnings: Woman-Owned Wineries of Sonoma County
I met Amy Bess Cook on a writer retreat last September and I knew this was someone I wanted in my life.
After Amy Bess released her new project, Woman-owned Wineries (WoW) of Sonoma I contacted her immediately to offer #winestudio as a platform to get the message out.
From Amy Bess:
"I was compelled to create this site because, during my eight years of helping to operate a boutique winery, I witnessed hardworking women throughout the industry being marginalized every place from sales meetings to the cellar floor. I wanted to do something positive to celebrate their work. This project is my love letter to them."
Tuesdays, February 6, 13, 20 - 6:00pm -7:00pm Pacific | 9:00pm – 10:00pm Eastern - hashtag #winestudio
Tuesday 6 February 6pmPT / 9pmET
Breathless Wines
Who is Breathless Wines?
Aesthetics and Mission
Breathless North Coast Brut SRP $25
Vineyards, Grapes, Winemaking
Breathless Blanc de Noirs SRP $30
Art, Sabering, and Building Connections through Crowdfunding
Tuesday 13 February 6pmPT / 9pmET
Amy Bess Cook and WoW
Influence
Data
Challenge
March (1) Launch
Tuesday 20 February 6pmPT / 9pmET
Pedroncelli Winery
How to find your voice and your calling amidst a family business
Necessity is the mother of all invention
Pedroncelli 2017 Friends.White SRP $14
A go-to winery - 90 years worth!
Pedroncelli 2015 Mother Clone Zinfandel SRP $19
When the Smithsonian National Museum of American History comes knocking
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Fetzer Wine - It's All about Relationships
"Most people take the easy route. Barney Fetzer had other ideas. Pioneering earth-friendly winemaking long before it was a buzzword, Fetzer continues Barney’s legacy of hard work, radical thinking and wines that make a difference.
Fetzer has always been about reliability, accessibility...but perhaps more importantly is the winery's commitment to earth. I understand that sounds a bit lofty, but honestly, it is at the center of our own existence. When wine is made by establishing a relationship with its surroundings rather than changing it to suit our needs, thus creating a positive action - that’s when a true partnership with our surroundings happens.
Fetzer Winery is truly a one-of-a-kind organization - a pioneer before its time and yet managing to quietly remain in the public’s eye with delicious wines while sustaining its earth-friendly attitude. And now through #winestudio, we introduce Fetzer’s lifestyle brands Bonterra, 1000 Stories and Adorada.
Tuesdays, January 9, 16 23, 30 - 6:00pm -7:00pm Pacific | 9:00pm – 10:00pm Eastern - hashtag #winestudio
Week 1 January 9 - Fetzer Wine @fetzerwine A Sense of Place 50 Years Strong
Fetzer Wines 50th Anniversary
Place-Name Wines and their Individual Significance
Wine Enthusiast Top 100 Value Wines - The Realization of founder Barney Fetzer’s dream of making quality wine accessible every day
Fetzer: Rebels Since 1968!
Fetzer 2016 “Sundial” Chardonnay, CA (SRP: $10)
Fetzer 2015 “Eagle Peak” Merlot, CA (SRP: $10)
Fetzer 2016 “Shaly Loam” Gewürztraminer, Monterey (SRP: $11)
Week 2 January 16 - 1000 Stories Wines @1000StoriesWine - Crossing to Innovation: Harnessing the past to usher in the future
Winemaker Bob Blue and His Story of Wine
An American Profile of Zinfandel
Sourcing Petite Sirah from Lake County
1000 Stories Wines - An Innovative Wine Category
1000 Stories 2015 Batch 038 Zinfandel, CA (SRP: $19)
1000 Stories “Half Batch” Petite Sirah, CA (SRP: $19)
Week 3 January 23 - Bonterra @bonterrawine Classic, Organic Farming is the Mission
Director of Vineyards Joseph Brinkley
How Experimenting with Organics for over 30 Years Allowed Bonterra to be ready...for today
Blue Heron Vineyard - A Portrait of Biodynamics
The Bonterra Life
The Nature of Biodynamics - Joseph takes us on a Journey: A recap of what Bonterra biodynamics means for our future
Bonterra 2015 “The Roost” Single-Vineyard Chardonnay from Biodynamic Grapes, Mendocino (SRP: $45)
Bonterra 2015 Merlot from Organic Grapes, CA (SPR: $16)
Week 4 January 30 - Adorada Wines - The Scents of Life @CalhounWine
Adorada: The Convergence of Wine, Art, Design, Fragrance and us as Human Beings
The Allure of Aromatics - Concept of Scent and How We Respond: Scents / Emotions / Memory
The Visual - Adorada Bottle as Art - The Pink of Liquid: Perception of Sight: How We’re Influenced by Beauty
The Complete Adorada Sensory Experience - Pushing Conventional Wine Boundaries: The Shape of Scent and how it makes us better Tasters.
Adorada 2016 Pinot Gris California (SRP: $20)
Adorada 2016 Rosé California (SRP: $20)
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Ferrari Trento Returns to #winestudio - one night only!
Tuesday 12 December 2017 - The Bubbles Party featuring Ferrari Brut!
The term "Mountain Viticulture" is our focus for the evening, and we’re joined by Jamie Stewart, US Ambassador for Ferrari Trento as well as Erica Nonni, Managing Director, Nonni Strategic Marketing LLC.
The iconic Ferrari Trento Brut will be popped so grab a glass and join the live, online convo!
A few topics we'll discuss:
Ferrari’s quality is the result of lots of small, daily procedures.
#FerrariTrento is a special blend of elements: land, altitude and climate.
Tasting the mountains through Ferrari’s grapes
Production zones:
Val d’Adige
Val de Cembra
Valle dei Laghi
Legacy
“It is thanks to the intuition of Giulio Ferrari that this area represents today the largest vineyard zone planted with Chardonnay in Italy; a lovely garden of vines, guarded like a treasure by the mountains that surround it.”
What all of this means to us, as consumers:
Ferrari was named Sparkling Wine Producer of the Year 2017
This achievement highlights the extraordinary vocation of Trentino and its mountain viticulture to produce excellent sparkling wines. It is also a sign of changing times on the global wine scene, with growing appreciation for internationally produced, terroir-driven sparkling wines of equal or greater quality than those of France and its Champagne region.
#FerrariTrento
Jamie Stewart will be using @FerrariTrento
@nonnimarketing
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New Jersey Wine and The Garden State Wine Growers Association
The New Jersey wine scene has really taken off recently and what better way to showcase these wines than right here on #winestudio. The Garden State Wine Growers Association is a coalition of over fifty member wineries, vineyards, grape growers and industry-related companies across the state of New Jersey. Not a whole lot but each is in a distinct area which highlights the true essence of New Jersey - agriculture.
We're joined by New Jersey Wines Executive Director Tom Cosentino, who'll lead us on a journey of NJ wine! @gardenstatewine
Tuesdays, November 7, 14, 21, 28 - 9:00pm – 10:00pm EDT
Week 1 November 7 - Hello! my name is...An Introduction to the New Jersey Wine Industry
The Garden State Wine Growers Association
--history
--major players
--AVAs
Tomasello Winery @TomaselloWinery
Tasting:
Palmaris 2013 Outer Coastal Plain Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve
Week 2 November 14 - Tasting the Outer Coastal Plain
Terroir / Climate / Soils / % of estate wines vs grape growers
Will the Outer Coastal Plain AVA put New Jersey Wine on the world wine map?
Article: Lettie Teague: New Jersey Shores Up Its Rising Wine Status
@HeritageWineNJ
William Heritage 2014 Outer Coastal Plain Estate Reserve Vintage Brut (69% Chardonnay 31% Pinot Noir)
William Heritage 2016 Outer Coastal Plain Chenin Blanc
@sharrottwinery
Sharrott Winery 2016 Outer Coastal Plain Barrel Reserve Chardonnay
Week 3 November 21 - New Jersey Tourism
Wine Trail Weekend - 24 - 26 November 2017
Wine Trails and Holiday Wine Trails around Cape May
Passport Book
Farms first!
We visit with Hawk Haven Vineyard Owner / Winemaker Todd Wuerker @WinemakerTodd
Week 4 November 28 - The Remarkable New Jersey Scenery Holds Many Secrets...
As we're finding out this month, many words describe the Garden State - oddly enough, most don't involve the word garden at all.
Our New Jersey wine program has provided us a chance to really find out who exactly is behind the New Jersey Wine name tag. Unionville Vineyards, located on preserved farmland in the heart of America's Colonial Crescent, is probably the most well-known of New Jersey wineries - managing and sourcing grapes from six vineyards spread across three New Jersey counties.
Through Unionville Vineyards, and what we've learned so far about New Jersey wine, we'll get a true sense of what this burgeoning wine region is truly capable of becoming.
@UnionvilleWines
Unionville Vineyards 2013 Pheasant Hill Syrah
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The Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. Zone
Why are we so fascinated with Prosecco? Apparently it's one of the world's most desirable white wines, with enough perlage to announce that something quite special is happening. Then why are we so confused by Prosecco? Our subject for the Month of October is the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. zone, communicated through the ConVal Consortium - created to protect, promote and sustain the safeguarding of the area of origin.
#winestudio is proud to welcome Silvia Benedet, Content & Social Media Manager for the Consorzio Tutela del Vino Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco and Alan Tardi, US Ambassador of ConVal Prosecco DOCG. This program is all about painting a picture of the history, terroir and people associated with the Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G zone.
Tuesdays, October 3, 10, 17, 24 - 8:45pm – 9:45pm EDT
Week 1 October 3 - Prosecco DOCG - History of Conegliano Valdobbiadene #ConValDOCG
-- Understanding the #ConValDOCG
-- Brief history of Conegliano Valdobbiadene
-- Reading a label
-- Pronunciation
-- Climate/terroir of #ConVal area and different subzones
-- Ancient handcrafted viticultural tradition
-- Different typologies within the appellation: Still/frizzante/spumante; Dry/Extra-
dry/Brut/Extra-brut;
Tasting:
Bortolomiol Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Extra Dry Millesimato "Banda Rossa" 2016
Conte Collalto Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Brut
Week 2 October 10 - Rive sub-category of Conegliano Valdobbiadene #ConValDOCG
--Discuss the Rive sub-category (village/hamlet appellations) established in ConVal DOCG in 2009
--Taste wines that highlight the diversity of microclimate within the relative small growing area and the complex terroir overall
--What distinguishes the Rive sub-category from other Prosecco DOCGs > hand -harvested, vintage, lower yield
--We taste all three wines below concurrently
Tasting:
Val d'Oca Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Brut Nature "Rive di Santo Stefano"
Masottina Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Extra Dry Rive di Ogliano 2016
Tenuta degli Ultimi Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Brut Rive di Collalto "Biancariva"
Week 3 October 17 - The Second Fermentation: Bottle vs. Autoclave in Prosecco Conegliano Valdobbiadene #ConValDOCG
--second fermentation to make a wine sparkling. Terminology: presa di spuma or spumantizzazione (Italian), prise de mousse (French), taking the foam (English)
--The tech of the autoclave invented by Martinotti (1895) was immediately adopted by the Conegliano Enology school (Italy’s oldest) and perfected for use with the local wines by the beginning of the 20th century (though it did not become widely used throughout the area until after WWII).
--95% of prosecco is made sparkling in autoclave but can also be done in bottle.
--Differences between a sparkling wine made in autoclave vs in bottle. And what are the differences between the Classic and traditional method.
--What distinguishes Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco from other sparkling wines like Champagne, Trentodoc, Franciacorta and Cava.
Tasting:
Bellenda Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Brut "Sei Uno" Rive di Carpesica 2015
Malibran Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG "Credamora" Rifermentato in Bottiglia 2015
Week 4 October 24 – Cartizze - The “Grand Cru” of Conegliano Valdobbiadene #ConValDOCG
--Brief history of the Cartizze subzone: highly fractured nature of the area (140 proprietors of 107 hectares total) containing many different microclimates depending on altitude, exposition, steepness, etc.
--Cartizze wines are named as such: "Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze"
--Cartizze fame stemmed from: buds opened first, harvest took place last, plus the area’s southern exposure resulted in grapes with a naturally higher level of ripeness = perceived sugar which balanced the naturally high level of mineralogy in the soil.
--For this reason after the autoclave was widely adopted, Cartizze was typically made in a Dry (i.e. sweet) style. But over the past eight years more producers have begun making a brut version.
Tasting:
Colesel Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze DOCG Brut
Le Colture Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze DOCG Dry
Twitter handles to follow:
#winestudio
@winestudioTINA
@ProseccoCV
@AlanTardi
@GregoryWhitePR
Participating wineries:
@BortolomiolDOCG
@AlberelloWines (Tweeting for Conte Colallto)
@valdocaprosecco
@Masottina_Wines
@piedmontwinenc (Tweeting for @degliultimi)
@bellenda1986
@malibranspum
@SpumantiColesel
@LeColture
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Nino Franco - Premium Prosecco!
Get ready for eight weeks of bubbles beginning with none other than Nino Franco! The estate has been growing and evolving throughout four generations of producers, remaining chic, yet traditionally Rustico!
Tuesdays, September 5, 12, 19, 26 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Week 1 September 5 - History and Provenance of Nino Franco | 4th Generation Family, Pioneers in Creating Quality Prosecco, DOCG
Nino Franco Prosecco Rustico Valdobbiadene Superiore DOCG
We discuss Family history and how they've influenced Valdobbiadene and the local / global Prosecco industry.
--The label discussion. What are we looking at?
--The Rustico method
--The Glera grape
--Coupe vs tulip
--Valdobbiadene climate / conditions
--Production
--Challenges
--The Prosecco market right now
--How the Nino Franco family is known as "pioneers" for Prosecco.
Week 2 September 12 - The Conegliano Valdobbiadene Region and Nino Franco's place within It
Prosecco Brut Superiore NV
The Franco Family > Pioneers in the Prosecco Industry
--Veneto > Treviso > Valdobbiadene - DOCG vs DOC vineyards, grape/s, climate
--Differences between Brut and Rustico.
--Tasting DOC and our Brut side by side
--How the Brut fits in the winery’s line
Popularity
Background
Production
Week 3 September 19 - The Luxury Prosecco Category - Using our Senses: Perlage | Color | Fragrances and Recognizing the Superiore Label
Primo Franco Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG 2016
Background of the Primo Franco Prosecco and more about the family who make it
Using our senses: Where the glera grape is sourced makes a difference in the final wine.
--Perlage
--Color
--Fragrances
Differences in our three wines so far:
Rustico
Brut
Primo
Label Reading and Vineyards
--Now that we know what / why we’re tasting, let’s go backwards and read the label.
--Vineyard sources of Nino Franco.
Week 4 September 26 - Matching Nino Franco Prosecco with the Entire Meal!
Grave di Stecca Brut Sparkling 2010
Viniculture and Viticulture - putting it all in perspective.
Fundamentals of Nino Franco Prosecco Styles:
Ripeness of Glera grapes
Vineyard sources
Natural yeast vs commercial
dosage
lees contact
bottle ageing
"sweetness" levels
All about pairings! Post those photos!
Nino Franco!
@NinoFranco1919
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Introducing our new July #winestudio Creatives Program!
Our subject: > Creatives Not in the Wine Industry but who Enjoy Wine
Tuesdays July 2017 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
July 11 - 9:00pm - 9:30pm EDT Lauren Davis / 9:30pm - 10:00pm EDT Jill Barth
I met Lauren this past March at Social Media Marketing World in San Diego and she impressed me with her enthusiasm and creativity. Moreso, though was her attitude: anything is possible! Have a look at her site, Lauren Davis Creative - Design and Marketing Studio from Rockford, Illinois.
Jill has been a welcome, regular participant on #winestudio. She writes about wine (travel + food) as a freelancer in addition to her blog L’occasion. Her work has appeared in partnership with Forbes, USA Today, Vivino, Palate Press, Luxe Provence, Courrier International, American Winery Guide, Wine Tourist Magazine, Provence WineZine, Perfectly Provence, California Winery Advisor and DuVine Adventures and Cycling. She's also a fiction writer with short stories published in multiple anthologies and literary journals.
July 18 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm EDT Jennifer M. Fraser / Elena Bundy / Zelda Sydney
Jennifer posted on #winestudio several times so of course I checked her out. I'm a sucker for academics so I learned that Jennifer has a PhD in Comparative Literature from the University of Toronto in addition to teaching for over twenty years at the university, college and high-school level. She presently teaches creative writing and literature in the International Baccalaureate program at Glenlyon-Norfolk School in Victoria, BC. She's a passionate educator, researcher and writer, with work ranging from literary studies, to novels, plays and most recently social critique. Her latest is a crime novel CRUSH: A Wine Thriller
which I loved! Purchase here.
Elena lives here in Virginia Beach and we met at a local co-work space. I love her profile: Made in Canada / Freelance Designer / Owner of YYZ Design Co. / Founder of The Social Rebel Club/ Purveyor of Sarcasm / Black is my happy colour. She is a designer, photographer, Mom and incredibly hip. Her design company has created some killer work for all sorts of genres and if you don't know by now, Elena designed the new #winestudio logo - I love it! Check out her work here and then contact her for a consult!
Zelda Sydney is The Illustrated Wine and is one of the most interesting people I've ever met...and we've never met! WSET Diploma graduate, illustrator, technical editor, artist and writer. Her illustrated colouring book is the absolute coolest thing ever, not only because it takes wine descriptions to the next level but because it provides an outlet for your hands so that the mind can relax, and create. She describes herself as a "late bloomer into pro illustration" and although that may be true, she's come a long way and I'm so happy we connected!
July 25 - Rebecca Hopkins / Lauren Mowery / Cathrine Todd / Cathy Huyghe
The Challenges of Working with Wine
All four of these women are published writers, travelers and just plain cool! And I'm lucky to know each of them! July 25 is based on a Facebook thread that went viral. Rebecca wrote a piece in Meininger's Wine Business International entitled The Challenges of Working with Wine. It focuses on the unhealthy habits the wine industry perpetuates and what we should do about it. Looking forward to a lively discussion with this bunch!
Rebecca Hopkins was raised in McLaren Vale, completing her Bachelor of Wine Marketing at Adelaide University, Rebecca’s first wine business role was with Wirra Wirra vineyards in 1992. She then joined national importer Negociants Australia as Marketing Assistant, and in 1996 was Australia's inaugural Student Winner of the "Vin de Champagne Award" – given by Champagne governing body. Relocating to Coonawarra, joined boutique producer Rymill Winery as Marketing, Sales & Export Manager before joining Australia’s largest producer, BRL Hardy (now Accolade Wines) eventually managing global public relations, media operations, hospitality and events. Rebecca relocated to San Francisco in 2007 with Constellation Brands to develop and lead the largest in-house brand communications and event marketing team in the US, before joining national importer Folio Fine Wine Partners in 2012 where she is now Vice President Communications & Partner. A panelist at Vinitaly’s 2015 Business Series in Verona and Wine2Wine in 2016, Rebecca is a freelance contributor to Meininger's Wine Business International (Europe), avid photographer, and lives in San Francisco.
Lauren Mowery is a freelance wine and travel journalist, Master of Wine candidate, and longtime yoga practitioner. She defected from the soul-crushing legal profession to pursue wine writing, only to discover a new set of challenges – maintaining health and well-being in an alcohol-driven industry. Last winter, research on an article she published in Wine Enthusiast on yoga, led her to create a Facebook group called Ataraxia to connect like-minded women in the business. She will lead group members on an inaugural retreat in Northern California in September, with plans to scale the concept to consumer wellness and wine events in the future.
Cathy Huyghe is a journalist, entrepreneur and author. She's been writing about wine for more than ten years, primarily on the business and politics of the industry for Forbes online. She's also been doing yoga for more than twenty years, with a special focus on meditation and CBCT (Cognitive Based Compassion Training). She is the co-founder of Enolytics, and she started WritingForSeva.com in 2016 as a service project.
Cathrine Todd worked in the wine trade for over 12 years in Manhattan, New York City, selling a range of wines from entry level to small artisanal producers to fine wines before transitioning into a full time freelance wine writer a couple of years ago. She is the wine columnist for La VOCE di New York, was shortlisted for Roederer 2015 Emerging Wine Writer of the Year, and a finalist for the 2016 Wine Blog Awards for Best Writing and Best Overall Wine Blog. She is the founder and sole contributor to www.damewine.com.
A few questions with which we'll be focusing for the evening:
Q1 Signs
With so many important topics in the alcohol industry to cover, at what point in your careers did you recognize the impact of job consumption vs health. And what was your GUT reaction?
Q2 Expectations
Let’s discuss alcohol/food consumption! It’s not just a gender issue of course, but as women we’re expected to “pull our weight.” Each of you attend numerous press trips/events. What are you finding out there?
Q3 Change
How does this unspoken (until now ;) alcohol issue become resolved? Who is responsible for changing the view?
Q4 NOW
How do we best communicate with our employers, wineries, PR, customers - that a change to balance and wellness is crucial when consumption IS part of the job?
Q5 Tools
Tools for Wellness. Discuss.
#sommkit
July is sponsored by my own product, sommkit which is now in its second iteration. We'll each of us have one on hand and check it out, give feedback for an upcoming 3.0 version.
If you'd like your own sommkit, and join in the conversation, find out more here and I'll ship immediately!
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I don't know what it is, but the rosé Program, now in its third year always seems to come together with a theme presenting itself when I least expect it. In fact, I was making myself breakfast knowing in the back of my head I needed to finish writing the program and there it was - the theme for this year's program.
All of these wineries have been in operation at least 40 years! Domaines Paul Mas harkens back to 1892 while Arinzano has roots stemming from the 11th Century! They are committed, organic in nature and generous in spirit.
What's "Old" is Anew!
The coveted June Rosé #winestudio Program
Tuesdays 6, 13, 20, 27 June / 9:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
6 June - Domaines Paul Mas
@paul_mas
@_ArrogantFrog_
Safe to say wine runs through Jean-Claude Mas' veins and through it he has created somewhat of a wine empire in the Languedoc. I would imagine most of us have tasted from at least one of the Mas Domaines and most likely one of the better known with the iconic Heron, Vinus, on the label. Nowadays, since taking the helm of the old family estate, fourth-generation vine grower and first generation vigneron Jean-Claude Mas says "Languedoc is a destination for fine rosé, thanks to the wide variety of soils and ideal varietals." It's true! The Languedoc is a treasure-trove of differing soils of which the Domaines sources for their wines, creating a complexity born of history and produced by quality-driven estates.
“Luxe Rural” (Everyday Luxury) sums up our culture and philosophy. With the greatest respect for our rural roots, we aim for perfection. Our wines are the result of our mission to inspire real emotions." And that's exactly what #winestudio is all about!
Côté Mas Crémant de Limoux Rosé Brut NV St. Hilaire Languedoc $16
Coté Mas Rosé Aurore 2016 Sud de France $11
Arrogant Frog Rosé 2016 Languedoc $10
13 June - Arinzano
@Arinzano_US
The Arinzano Estate has been the darling of #winestudio May program, with its DO Pago status and its environmentally friendly World Wildlife Fund award. Of course there's no need to stop the momentum so we're back with the crew to taste the wildly popular rosé.
Master Sommelier Fred Dame joins us to speak of his visit to Arinzano last year through Somm Journal. And in true wine educator style, we'll have a recap quiz from our last month's program.
Hacienda de Arinzano Rosé 2016 (100% Tempranillo) $20
20 June - Bonterra
@bonterrawine
When you think of vacation, does rosé come to mind? For Bonterra winemaker Jeff Cichocki it certainly does! Crafted with a Provençal style in mind, the Bonterra rosé grapes hail from some of Mendocino’s most exciting organic vineyards. We're joined by winemaker Sebastian Donoso, who knows everything biodynamic!
If you haven't snagged at least one bottle yet, click on over here to do so.
Bonterra Rosé 2016 Mendocino (Grenache, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo) $16
27 June - Conn Creek Winery
@conncreekwinery
Conn Creek winery was founded nearly 40 years ago, focused primarily on what Napa Valley does best: Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varieties. Mike McGrath started with Conn Creek back in the 1980s and perhaps is one of the longest tenured Napa Valley winemakers working for just one winery.
Occasionally Conn Creek makes a small lot of wine in a spirit of experimentation and fun, so this Rosé of Malbec is the result of their most recent experiment with just 67 cases produced!
Conn Creek Rosé of Malbec 2016 Antica Vineyard, Atlas Peak, Napa Valley $24
We're joined by:
Alyssa Taylor Enologist @alyssaataylor
Christina Starr Communications Manager, Luxury & Import Wines St. Michelle Wine Estates @conncreekwinery
Tracey Hoff Visitor Center Manager | Conn Creek Winery @Tracey914
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Arinzano - The First Pago in Northern Spain
Tuesdays May 9, 16, 23 and June 13 rosé
Arínzano Vinos de Pago originates from an exceptional winery that was the first to receive the Pago designation in Northeast Spain due to the orientation of the vineyards, climate and soils. It's also the only winery in Spain certified by the World Wildlife Fund for environmental responsibility. This combination, along with precise winemaking, creates wines ranging from a complex Chardonnay grown at the highest elevations with Burgundian freshness to a cool-climate Merlot and a Tempranillo that benefit from the long ripening season.
Week 1: May 9 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm EDT: The “hidden jewel” that is Arinzano
The confluence of history / location / terroir / people / architecture / enotourism!
Tasting:
Hacienda de Arinzano White 2014 (100% Chardonnay; SRP: $19.99)
Hacienda de Arinzano Red 2012 (80% Tempranillo, 10% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon; SRP: $19.99)
Week 2: May 16 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm EDT: The D.O. Pago Designation
In 2007, Arinzano became the first estate in northern Spain to receive a designation of Vino de Pago (or D.O. Pago). This is a classification given to individual estates indicating the highest quality of Spanish wine.
Tasting:
Arinzano La Casona 2008 (75% Tempranillo, 25% Merlot; SRP: $39.99)
Week 3: May 23 - 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT: Manuel Louzada
How growing up in a multigenerational Portuguese family shapes a winemaker and a thousand year old estate
Tasting:
Arinzano Gran Vino White 2010 (100% Chardonnay; SRP: $79)
Arinzano Gran Vino Red 2008 (100% Tempranillo; SRP: $99)
Week 4: June 13 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm EDT: Future Plans via Influence
We talk rosé from a dedicated vineyard!
Tasting:
Hacienda de Arinzano Rosé 2016 (100% Tempranillo; SRP: $19.99)
o New magnum available in select markets!!!
Twitter handles to follow:
@Arinzano_US
@winestudioTINA
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The Return of Achaval-Ferrer
Tuesdays April 4, 11, 25 and Monday #WorldMalbecDay April 17 2017 | 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST hashtag #winestudio
Week 1 - Tuesday April 4 - Benchmark Malbec - 9:00pm - 10pm EST hashtag #winestudio
o Wine: Achaval-Ferrer 2015 Malbec Uco Valley, Luján de Cuyo, Medrano, Mendoza Argentina
Comparison of the 2015 Malbec with previous vintages, the weather conditions were very different. The vineyards experienced lower temperatures and more rain. These conditions marked the 2015 wines with a great aromatic expression, vivacious fruit and balanced acidity, with a good concentration and freshness.
The winemaking team characterizes the 2015 Achaval-Ferrer Mendoza Malbec with “very particular elegance and finesse.” The team is vigilant in selecting the best fruit to create iconic wines. Due to weather conditions of the 2015 vintage, production is just half of the 2013 production.
Week 2 - Tuesday April 11 - Cabernet Comes out of the Shadows
o Wine: Achaval-Ferrer 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Agrelo, Medrano Mendoza Argentina
What exactly is Cabernet's role in Argentina and will it rival the king that is Malbec? And does Cabernet Sauvignon have huge potential as the mainstay of Argentine’s top red wines.We'll discuss how Cabernet Sauvignon is treated in the vineyard and cellar in comparison to Malbec.
Week 3 - Monday April 17 - World Malbec Day! We'll taste same wine, two vintages - blind! (WSET Tasting Grid)
#WorldMalbecDay is celebrated on April 17, to commemorate the day when president Domingo Faustino Sarmiento of Argentina officially made it his mission to transform Argentina's wine industry. On that day, back in 1853, he tasked Michel Aimé Pouget, a French soil expert, to bring over new vines. We'll talk about #WorldMalbecDay and what it means for the wine industry and the variety.
We taste two Achaval-Ferrer wines blind using the WSET III Modified Tasting Grid Format - plus we use our own memory associations triggered by our olfactory sense to describe the wines in more of a free-form way.
Week 4 - Tuesday April 25 - The Coveted 2015 Cabernet Franc!
Cabernet Franc is the newest addition to the Achaval-Ferrer portfolio and we're lucky to taste on #winestudio! Cabernet Franc has become somewhat of a hot button grape of late but oenologist Gustavo Rearte and the winemaking crew eschew fads, rather focusing on what works well for the sand and caliche-laden soils of the Uco Valley appellation where they source the Cabernet Franc grape.
This is our final evening with Achaval-Ferrer so find your own Achaval-Ferrer wine here and join the online convo!
A few Twitter handles to follow:
@AchavalFerrerUS
@TavoRearte
@winestudioTINA
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Meeker Wine
Tuesdays 7 and 14 March 2017 | 9:00pm - 10pm EST hashtag #winestudio
Meeker Vineyard has been in operation for over 30 years in Dry Creek Valley. Their wines have evolved a tremendously under second generation winemaker Lucas Meeker, the 31 year old son of Charles & Molly, founders of Meeker. His passion is for crafting low pH, high acid wines, while adhering to an ethos of truth in wine-making. He believes in food friendly wines that are meant to age; wines that do not lean on residual sugar or a preponderance of new oak to make them palatable.
Meeker was the 8th winery in Dry Creek Valley to be granted a permit in the post prohibition era. As with most small businesses, there were some trials and tribulations which led to the family selling off their original winery property back in 1998. However, Meeker has remained in business as a "warehouse" winery since that time. They now operate out of a space a few blocks off the Healdsburg Plaza and have a tasting room up in Geyserville, where they have been pouring wine to guests for just over 18 years!
Tuesday, 7 March 9:00pm - 10pm EST hashtag #winestudio
Meeker Vineyard 2013 Hoskins Ranch Vineyard Dry Creek Valley Grenache $38
Meeker Vineyard 2013 Dry Creek Valley Cabernet Franc $45
Tuesday, 7 March 9:00pm - 10pm EST hashtag #winestudio
Meeker Vineyard 2013 Winemaker’s Handprint Merlot Sonoma County
@MeekerWine
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Eppie Ordaz, winemaker Ordaz Family Wines
Tuesdays 21 and 28 February 2017 | 9:00pm - 10pm EST hashtag #winestudio
Eppie Ordaz was recently named one of several "winemakers to watch" according to Sonoma Magazine. He works alongside his famous Father, Chuy (pronounced Chew-ey) Ordaz who is synonymous with some of the more famous vineyards of Sonoma.
Tuesday 21 February
2014 Placida Vineyard Pinot Noir $38
Tuesday 28 February
2012 Sandoval Vineyard Malbec $25
@Ordazwines
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Massanois Imports - The Mosel German Collection.
Tuesdays, January 17, 24, 31 2017 - 9pm EST - 10pm EST hashtag #winestudio
Tuesday, 17 January 9pm - 10pm EST
Karthäuserhof estate @Karthaeuserhof
While the estate produces the classic Prädikat wines, they have long been ahead of the curve and renowned for their dry Rieslings, an area of increasing popularity among Riesling lovers.
Karthäuserhof Riesling Ruwer QbA 2015
Karthäuserhof Riesling Grosses Gewachs 2009 / 2010/ 2011/ 2012
Tuesday, 24 January 9pm - 10pm EST
Max Ferdinand Richter estate
The wines enjoy worldwide acclaim. They are ambassadors of the rich cultural heritage of the unique Mosel landscape. Mike Shaw, long time US agent for the brand will be joining us!
Richter Brauneberger Juffer Kabinett Riesling 2015
Richter Graacher Himmelreich Kabinett Riesling 2015
SRP $22
Tuesday, 31 January 9pm - 10pm EST
Massanois Imports LLC
A candid discussion with the importer with special guest Amy Ezrin, Senior VP @lavinaia
Join the conversation online - hashtag #winestudio
@winestudioTINA
@lavinaia
@massanois
@Karthaeuserhof
#Karthäuserhof
#Karthäuserhofberg
@mneshaw
#maxferdrichter
#moselriesling
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Talking with Troon.
Our guest is the legendary Craig Camp!
Tuesdays, November 15, 22, 29 - 9pm EST - 10pm EST hashtag #winestudio
We're joined by the legendary Craig Camp, who recently relocated to Oregon and joined longtime winery Troon Vineyard to, as Craig puts it: "...be a pioneer in an emerging AVA."
That emerging AVA would be Applegate Valley in Southern Oregon where Troon's mountain vineyards create a singular micro-climate with granitic soils much like Beaujolais and Sardegna.
Our focus for the next three weeks:
Tuesday 15 November - 9pm EST - 10pm EST
2014 Troon Black Label Vermentino, Applegate Valley
Tuesday 22 November - 9pm EST - 10pm EST
2014 Troon Blue Label Sangiovese, Applegate Valley
Tuesday 29 November - 9pm EST - 10pm EST
2014 Troon Black Label M*T, Applegate Valley
A few Twitter handles to follow:
@CraigCamp
@TroonWines
@winestudioTINA
"Most people take the easy route. Barney Fetzer had other ideas. Pioneering earth-friendly winemaking long before it was a buzzword, Fetzer continues Barney’s legacy of hard work, radical thinking and wines that make a difference.
Fetzer has always been about reliability, accessibility...but perhaps more importantly is the winery's commitment to earth. I understand that sounds a bit lofty, but honestly, it is at the center of our own existence. When wine is made by establishing a relationship with its surroundings rather than changing it to suit our needs, thus creating a positive action - that’s when a true partnership with our surroundings happens.
Fetzer Winery is truly a one-of-a-kind organization - a pioneer before its time and yet managing to quietly remain in the public’s eye with delicious wines while sustaining its earth-friendly attitude. And now through #winestudio, we introduce Fetzer’s lifestyle brands Bonterra, 1000 Stories and Adorada.
Tuesdays, January 9, 16 23, 30 - 6:00pm -7:00pm Pacific | 9:00pm – 10:00pm Eastern - hashtag #winestudio
Week 1 January 9 - Fetzer Wine @fetzerwine A Sense of Place 50 Years Strong
Fetzer Wines 50th Anniversary
Place-Name Wines and their Individual Significance
Wine Enthusiast Top 100 Value Wines - The Realization of founder Barney Fetzer’s dream of making quality wine accessible every day
Fetzer: Rebels Since 1968!
Fetzer 2016 “Sundial” Chardonnay, CA (SRP: $10)
Fetzer 2015 “Eagle Peak” Merlot, CA (SRP: $10)
Fetzer 2016 “Shaly Loam” Gewürztraminer, Monterey (SRP: $11)
Week 2 January 16 - 1000 Stories Wines @1000StoriesWine - Crossing to Innovation: Harnessing the past to usher in the future
Winemaker Bob Blue and His Story of Wine
An American Profile of Zinfandel
Sourcing Petite Sirah from Lake County
1000 Stories Wines - An Innovative Wine Category
1000 Stories 2015 Batch 038 Zinfandel, CA (SRP: $19)
1000 Stories “Half Batch” Petite Sirah, CA (SRP: $19)
Week 3 January 23 - Bonterra @bonterrawine Classic, Organic Farming is the Mission
Director of Vineyards Joseph Brinkley
How Experimenting with Organics for over 30 Years Allowed Bonterra to be ready...for today
Blue Heron Vineyard - A Portrait of Biodynamics
The Bonterra Life
The Nature of Biodynamics - Joseph takes us on a Journey: A recap of what Bonterra biodynamics means for our future
Bonterra 2015 “The Roost” Single-Vineyard Chardonnay from Biodynamic Grapes, Mendocino (SRP: $45)
Bonterra 2015 Merlot from Organic Grapes, CA (SPR: $16)
Week 4 January 30 - Adorada Wines - The Scents of Life @CalhounWine
Adorada: The Convergence of Wine, Art, Design, Fragrance and us as Human Beings
The Allure of Aromatics - Concept of Scent and How We Respond: Scents / Emotions / Memory
The Visual - Adorada Bottle as Art - The Pink of Liquid: Perception of Sight: How We’re Influenced by Beauty
The Complete Adorada Sensory Experience - Pushing Conventional Wine Boundaries: The Shape of Scent and how it makes us better Tasters.
Adorada 2016 Pinot Gris California (SRP: $20)
Adorada 2016 Rosé California (SRP: $20)
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Ferrari Trento Returns to #winestudio - one night only!
Tuesday 12 December 2017 - The Bubbles Party featuring Ferrari Brut!
The term "Mountain Viticulture" is our focus for the evening, and we’re joined by Jamie Stewart, US Ambassador for Ferrari Trento as well as Erica Nonni, Managing Director, Nonni Strategic Marketing LLC.
The iconic Ferrari Trento Brut will be popped so grab a glass and join the live, online convo!
A few topics we'll discuss:
Ferrari’s quality is the result of lots of small, daily procedures.
#FerrariTrento is a special blend of elements: land, altitude and climate.
Tasting the mountains through Ferrari’s grapes
Production zones:
Val d’Adige
Val de Cembra
Valle dei Laghi
Legacy
“It is thanks to the intuition of Giulio Ferrari that this area represents today the largest vineyard zone planted with Chardonnay in Italy; a lovely garden of vines, guarded like a treasure by the mountains that surround it.”
What all of this means to us, as consumers:
Ferrari was named Sparkling Wine Producer of the Year 2017
This achievement highlights the extraordinary vocation of Trentino and its mountain viticulture to produce excellent sparkling wines. It is also a sign of changing times on the global wine scene, with growing appreciation for internationally produced, terroir-driven sparkling wines of equal or greater quality than those of France and its Champagne region.
#FerrariTrento
Jamie Stewart will be using @FerrariTrento
@nonnimarketing
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New Jersey Wine and The Garden State Wine Growers Association
The New Jersey wine scene has really taken off recently and what better way to showcase these wines than right here on #winestudio. The Garden State Wine Growers Association is a coalition of over fifty member wineries, vineyards, grape growers and industry-related companies across the state of New Jersey. Not a whole lot but each is in a distinct area which highlights the true essence of New Jersey - agriculture.
We're joined by New Jersey Wines Executive Director Tom Cosentino, who'll lead us on a journey of NJ wine! @gardenstatewine
Tuesdays, November 7, 14, 21, 28 - 9:00pm – 10:00pm EDT
Week 1 November 7 - Hello! my name is...An Introduction to the New Jersey Wine Industry
The Garden State Wine Growers Association
--history
--major players
--AVAs
Tomasello Winery @TomaselloWinery
Tasting:
Palmaris 2013 Outer Coastal Plain Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve
Week 2 November 14 - Tasting the Outer Coastal Plain
Terroir / Climate / Soils / % of estate wines vs grape growers
Will the Outer Coastal Plain AVA put New Jersey Wine on the world wine map?
Article: Lettie Teague: New Jersey Shores Up Its Rising Wine Status
@HeritageWineNJ
William Heritage 2014 Outer Coastal Plain Estate Reserve Vintage Brut (69% Chardonnay 31% Pinot Noir)
William Heritage 2016 Outer Coastal Plain Chenin Blanc
@sharrottwinery
Sharrott Winery 2016 Outer Coastal Plain Barrel Reserve Chardonnay
Week 3 November 21 - New Jersey Tourism
Wine Trail Weekend - 24 - 26 November 2017
Wine Trails and Holiday Wine Trails around Cape May
Passport Book
Farms first!
We visit with Hawk Haven Vineyard Owner / Winemaker Todd Wuerker @WinemakerTodd
Week 4 November 28 - The Remarkable New Jersey Scenery Holds Many Secrets...
As we're finding out this month, many words describe the Garden State - oddly enough, most don't involve the word garden at all.
Our New Jersey wine program has provided us a chance to really find out who exactly is behind the New Jersey Wine name tag. Unionville Vineyards, located on preserved farmland in the heart of America's Colonial Crescent, is probably the most well-known of New Jersey wineries - managing and sourcing grapes from six vineyards spread across three New Jersey counties.
Through Unionville Vineyards, and what we've learned so far about New Jersey wine, we'll get a true sense of what this burgeoning wine region is truly capable of becoming.
@UnionvilleWines
Unionville Vineyards 2013 Pheasant Hill Syrah
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The Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. Zone
Why are we so fascinated with Prosecco? Apparently it's one of the world's most desirable white wines, with enough perlage to announce that something quite special is happening. Then why are we so confused by Prosecco? Our subject for the Month of October is the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. zone, communicated through the ConVal Consortium - created to protect, promote and sustain the safeguarding of the area of origin.
#winestudio is proud to welcome Silvia Benedet, Content & Social Media Manager for the Consorzio Tutela del Vino Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco and Alan Tardi, US Ambassador of ConVal Prosecco DOCG. This program is all about painting a picture of the history, terroir and people associated with the Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G zone.
Tuesdays, October 3, 10, 17, 24 - 8:45pm – 9:45pm EDT
Week 1 October 3 - Prosecco DOCG - History of Conegliano Valdobbiadene #ConValDOCG
-- Understanding the #ConValDOCG
-- Brief history of Conegliano Valdobbiadene
-- Reading a label
-- Pronunciation
-- Climate/terroir of #ConVal area and different subzones
-- Ancient handcrafted viticultural tradition
-- Different typologies within the appellation: Still/frizzante/spumante; Dry/Extra-
dry/Brut/Extra-brut;
Tasting:
Bortolomiol Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Extra Dry Millesimato "Banda Rossa" 2016
Conte Collalto Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Brut
Week 2 October 10 - Rive sub-category of Conegliano Valdobbiadene #ConValDOCG
--Discuss the Rive sub-category (village/hamlet appellations) established in ConVal DOCG in 2009
--Taste wines that highlight the diversity of microclimate within the relative small growing area and the complex terroir overall
--What distinguishes the Rive sub-category from other Prosecco DOCGs > hand -harvested, vintage, lower yield
--We taste all three wines below concurrently
Tasting:
Val d'Oca Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Brut Nature "Rive di Santo Stefano"
Masottina Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Extra Dry Rive di Ogliano 2016
Tenuta degli Ultimi Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Brut Rive di Collalto "Biancariva"
Week 3 October 17 - The Second Fermentation: Bottle vs. Autoclave in Prosecco Conegliano Valdobbiadene #ConValDOCG
--second fermentation to make a wine sparkling. Terminology: presa di spuma or spumantizzazione (Italian), prise de mousse (French), taking the foam (English)
--The tech of the autoclave invented by Martinotti (1895) was immediately adopted by the Conegliano Enology school (Italy’s oldest) and perfected for use with the local wines by the beginning of the 20th century (though it did not become widely used throughout the area until after WWII).
--95% of prosecco is made sparkling in autoclave but can also be done in bottle.
--Differences between a sparkling wine made in autoclave vs in bottle. And what are the differences between the Classic and traditional method.
--What distinguishes Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco from other sparkling wines like Champagne, Trentodoc, Franciacorta and Cava.
Tasting:
Bellenda Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Brut "Sei Uno" Rive di Carpesica 2015
Malibran Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG "Credamora" Rifermentato in Bottiglia 2015
Week 4 October 24 – Cartizze - The “Grand Cru” of Conegliano Valdobbiadene #ConValDOCG
--Brief history of the Cartizze subzone: highly fractured nature of the area (140 proprietors of 107 hectares total) containing many different microclimates depending on altitude, exposition, steepness, etc.
--Cartizze wines are named as such: "Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze"
--Cartizze fame stemmed from: buds opened first, harvest took place last, plus the area’s southern exposure resulted in grapes with a naturally higher level of ripeness = perceived sugar which balanced the naturally high level of mineralogy in the soil.
--For this reason after the autoclave was widely adopted, Cartizze was typically made in a Dry (i.e. sweet) style. But over the past eight years more producers have begun making a brut version.
Tasting:
Colesel Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze DOCG Brut
Le Colture Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze DOCG Dry
Twitter handles to follow:
#winestudio
@winestudioTINA
@ProseccoCV
@AlanTardi
@GregoryWhitePR
Participating wineries:
@BortolomiolDOCG
@AlberelloWines (Tweeting for Conte Colallto)
@valdocaprosecco
@Masottina_Wines
@piedmontwinenc (Tweeting for @degliultimi)
@bellenda1986
@malibranspum
@SpumantiColesel
@LeColture
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Nino Franco - Premium Prosecco!
Get ready for eight weeks of bubbles beginning with none other than Nino Franco! The estate has been growing and evolving throughout four generations of producers, remaining chic, yet traditionally Rustico!
Tuesdays, September 5, 12, 19, 26 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Week 1 September 5 - History and Provenance of Nino Franco | 4th Generation Family, Pioneers in Creating Quality Prosecco, DOCG
Nino Franco Prosecco Rustico Valdobbiadene Superiore DOCG
We discuss Family history and how they've influenced Valdobbiadene and the local / global Prosecco industry.
--The label discussion. What are we looking at?
--The Rustico method
--The Glera grape
--Coupe vs tulip
--Valdobbiadene climate / conditions
--Production
--Challenges
--The Prosecco market right now
--How the Nino Franco family is known as "pioneers" for Prosecco.
Week 2 September 12 - The Conegliano Valdobbiadene Region and Nino Franco's place within It
Prosecco Brut Superiore NV
The Franco Family > Pioneers in the Prosecco Industry
--Veneto > Treviso > Valdobbiadene - DOCG vs DOC vineyards, grape/s, climate
--Differences between Brut and Rustico.
--Tasting DOC and our Brut side by side
--How the Brut fits in the winery’s line
Popularity
Background
Production
Week 3 September 19 - The Luxury Prosecco Category - Using our Senses: Perlage | Color | Fragrances and Recognizing the Superiore Label
Primo Franco Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG 2016
Background of the Primo Franco Prosecco and more about the family who make it
Using our senses: Where the glera grape is sourced makes a difference in the final wine.
--Perlage
--Color
--Fragrances
Differences in our three wines so far:
Rustico
Brut
Primo
Label Reading and Vineyards
--Now that we know what / why we’re tasting, let’s go backwards and read the label.
--Vineyard sources of Nino Franco.
Week 4 September 26 - Matching Nino Franco Prosecco with the Entire Meal!
Grave di Stecca Brut Sparkling 2010
Viniculture and Viticulture - putting it all in perspective.
Fundamentals of Nino Franco Prosecco Styles:
Ripeness of Glera grapes
Vineyard sources
Natural yeast vs commercial
dosage
lees contact
bottle ageing
"sweetness" levels
All about pairings! Post those photos!
Nino Franco!
@NinoFranco1919
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Introducing our new July #winestudio Creatives Program!
Our subject: > Creatives Not in the Wine Industry but who Enjoy Wine
Tuesdays July 2017 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
July 11 - 9:00pm - 9:30pm EDT Lauren Davis / 9:30pm - 10:00pm EDT Jill Barth
I met Lauren this past March at Social Media Marketing World in San Diego and she impressed me with her enthusiasm and creativity. Moreso, though was her attitude: anything is possible! Have a look at her site, Lauren Davis Creative - Design and Marketing Studio from Rockford, Illinois.
Jill has been a welcome, regular participant on #winestudio. She writes about wine (travel + food) as a freelancer in addition to her blog L’occasion. Her work has appeared in partnership with Forbes, USA Today, Vivino, Palate Press, Luxe Provence, Courrier International, American Winery Guide, Wine Tourist Magazine, Provence WineZine, Perfectly Provence, California Winery Advisor and DuVine Adventures and Cycling. She's also a fiction writer with short stories published in multiple anthologies and literary journals.
July 18 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm EDT Jennifer M. Fraser / Elena Bundy / Zelda Sydney
Jennifer posted on #winestudio several times so of course I checked her out. I'm a sucker for academics so I learned that Jennifer has a PhD in Comparative Literature from the University of Toronto in addition to teaching for over twenty years at the university, college and high-school level. She presently teaches creative writing and literature in the International Baccalaureate program at Glenlyon-Norfolk School in Victoria, BC. She's a passionate educator, researcher and writer, with work ranging from literary studies, to novels, plays and most recently social critique. Her latest is a crime novel CRUSH: A Wine Thriller
which I loved! Purchase here.
Elena lives here in Virginia Beach and we met at a local co-work space. I love her profile: Made in Canada / Freelance Designer / Owner of YYZ Design Co. / Founder of The Social Rebel Club/ Purveyor of Sarcasm / Black is my happy colour. She is a designer, photographer, Mom and incredibly hip. Her design company has created some killer work for all sorts of genres and if you don't know by now, Elena designed the new #winestudio logo - I love it! Check out her work here and then contact her for a consult!
Zelda Sydney is The Illustrated Wine and is one of the most interesting people I've ever met...and we've never met! WSET Diploma graduate, illustrator, technical editor, artist and writer. Her illustrated colouring book is the absolute coolest thing ever, not only because it takes wine descriptions to the next level but because it provides an outlet for your hands so that the mind can relax, and create. She describes herself as a "late bloomer into pro illustration" and although that may be true, she's come a long way and I'm so happy we connected!
July 25 - Rebecca Hopkins / Lauren Mowery / Cathrine Todd / Cathy Huyghe
The Challenges of Working with Wine
All four of these women are published writers, travelers and just plain cool! And I'm lucky to know each of them! July 25 is based on a Facebook thread that went viral. Rebecca wrote a piece in Meininger's Wine Business International entitled The Challenges of Working with Wine. It focuses on the unhealthy habits the wine industry perpetuates and what we should do about it. Looking forward to a lively discussion with this bunch!
Rebecca Hopkins was raised in McLaren Vale, completing her Bachelor of Wine Marketing at Adelaide University, Rebecca’s first wine business role was with Wirra Wirra vineyards in 1992. She then joined national importer Negociants Australia as Marketing Assistant, and in 1996 was Australia's inaugural Student Winner of the "Vin de Champagne Award" – given by Champagne governing body. Relocating to Coonawarra, joined boutique producer Rymill Winery as Marketing, Sales & Export Manager before joining Australia’s largest producer, BRL Hardy (now Accolade Wines) eventually managing global public relations, media operations, hospitality and events. Rebecca relocated to San Francisco in 2007 with Constellation Brands to develop and lead the largest in-house brand communications and event marketing team in the US, before joining national importer Folio Fine Wine Partners in 2012 where she is now Vice President Communications & Partner. A panelist at Vinitaly’s 2015 Business Series in Verona and Wine2Wine in 2016, Rebecca is a freelance contributor to Meininger's Wine Business International (Europe), avid photographer, and lives in San Francisco.
Lauren Mowery is a freelance wine and travel journalist, Master of Wine candidate, and longtime yoga practitioner. She defected from the soul-crushing legal profession to pursue wine writing, only to discover a new set of challenges – maintaining health and well-being in an alcohol-driven industry. Last winter, research on an article she published in Wine Enthusiast on yoga, led her to create a Facebook group called Ataraxia to connect like-minded women in the business. She will lead group members on an inaugural retreat in Northern California in September, with plans to scale the concept to consumer wellness and wine events in the future.
Cathy Huyghe is a journalist, entrepreneur and author. She's been writing about wine for more than ten years, primarily on the business and politics of the industry for Forbes online. She's also been doing yoga for more than twenty years, with a special focus on meditation and CBCT (Cognitive Based Compassion Training). She is the co-founder of Enolytics, and she started WritingForSeva.com in 2016 as a service project.
Cathrine Todd worked in the wine trade for over 12 years in Manhattan, New York City, selling a range of wines from entry level to small artisanal producers to fine wines before transitioning into a full time freelance wine writer a couple of years ago. She is the wine columnist for La VOCE di New York, was shortlisted for Roederer 2015 Emerging Wine Writer of the Year, and a finalist for the 2016 Wine Blog Awards for Best Writing and Best Overall Wine Blog. She is the founder and sole contributor to www.damewine.com.
A few questions with which we'll be focusing for the evening:
Q1 Signs
With so many important topics in the alcohol industry to cover, at what point in your careers did you recognize the impact of job consumption vs health. And what was your GUT reaction?
Q2 Expectations
Let’s discuss alcohol/food consumption! It’s not just a gender issue of course, but as women we’re expected to “pull our weight.” Each of you attend numerous press trips/events. What are you finding out there?
Q3 Change
How does this unspoken (until now ;) alcohol issue become resolved? Who is responsible for changing the view?
Q4 NOW
How do we best communicate with our employers, wineries, PR, customers - that a change to balance and wellness is crucial when consumption IS part of the job?
Q5 Tools
Tools for Wellness. Discuss.
#sommkit
July is sponsored by my own product, sommkit which is now in its second iteration. We'll each of us have one on hand and check it out, give feedback for an upcoming 3.0 version.
If you'd like your own sommkit, and join in the conversation, find out more here and I'll ship immediately!
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I don't know what it is, but the rosé Program, now in its third year always seems to come together with a theme presenting itself when I least expect it. In fact, I was making myself breakfast knowing in the back of my head I needed to finish writing the program and there it was - the theme for this year's program.
All of these wineries have been in operation at least 40 years! Domaines Paul Mas harkens back to 1892 while Arinzano has roots stemming from the 11th Century! They are committed, organic in nature and generous in spirit.
What's "Old" is Anew!
The coveted June Rosé #winestudio Program
Tuesdays 6, 13, 20, 27 June / 9:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
6 June - Domaines Paul Mas
@paul_mas
@_ArrogantFrog_
Safe to say wine runs through Jean-Claude Mas' veins and through it he has created somewhat of a wine empire in the Languedoc. I would imagine most of us have tasted from at least one of the Mas Domaines and most likely one of the better known with the iconic Heron, Vinus, on the label. Nowadays, since taking the helm of the old family estate, fourth-generation vine grower and first generation vigneron Jean-Claude Mas says "Languedoc is a destination for fine rosé, thanks to the wide variety of soils and ideal varietals." It's true! The Languedoc is a treasure-trove of differing soils of which the Domaines sources for their wines, creating a complexity born of history and produced by quality-driven estates.
“Luxe Rural” (Everyday Luxury) sums up our culture and philosophy. With the greatest respect for our rural roots, we aim for perfection. Our wines are the result of our mission to inspire real emotions." And that's exactly what #winestudio is all about!
Côté Mas Crémant de Limoux Rosé Brut NV St. Hilaire Languedoc $16
Coté Mas Rosé Aurore 2016 Sud de France $11
Arrogant Frog Rosé 2016 Languedoc $10
13 June - Arinzano
@Arinzano_US
The Arinzano Estate has been the darling of #winestudio May program, with its DO Pago status and its environmentally friendly World Wildlife Fund award. Of course there's no need to stop the momentum so we're back with the crew to taste the wildly popular rosé.
Master Sommelier Fred Dame joins us to speak of his visit to Arinzano last year through Somm Journal. And in true wine educator style, we'll have a recap quiz from our last month's program.
Hacienda de Arinzano Rosé 2016 (100% Tempranillo) $20
20 June - Bonterra
@bonterrawine
When you think of vacation, does rosé come to mind? For Bonterra winemaker Jeff Cichocki it certainly does! Crafted with a Provençal style in mind, the Bonterra rosé grapes hail from some of Mendocino’s most exciting organic vineyards. We're joined by winemaker Sebastian Donoso, who knows everything biodynamic!
If you haven't snagged at least one bottle yet, click on over here to do so.
Bonterra Rosé 2016 Mendocino (Grenache, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo) $16
27 June - Conn Creek Winery
@conncreekwinery
Conn Creek winery was founded nearly 40 years ago, focused primarily on what Napa Valley does best: Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varieties. Mike McGrath started with Conn Creek back in the 1980s and perhaps is one of the longest tenured Napa Valley winemakers working for just one winery.
Occasionally Conn Creek makes a small lot of wine in a spirit of experimentation and fun, so this Rosé of Malbec is the result of their most recent experiment with just 67 cases produced!
Conn Creek Rosé of Malbec 2016 Antica Vineyard, Atlas Peak, Napa Valley $24
We're joined by:
Alyssa Taylor Enologist @alyssaataylor
Christina Starr Communications Manager, Luxury & Import Wines St. Michelle Wine Estates @conncreekwinery
Tracey Hoff Visitor Center Manager | Conn Creek Winery @Tracey914
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Arinzano - The First Pago in Northern Spain
Tuesdays May 9, 16, 23 and June 13 rosé
Arínzano Vinos de Pago originates from an exceptional winery that was the first to receive the Pago designation in Northeast Spain due to the orientation of the vineyards, climate and soils. It's also the only winery in Spain certified by the World Wildlife Fund for environmental responsibility. This combination, along with precise winemaking, creates wines ranging from a complex Chardonnay grown at the highest elevations with Burgundian freshness to a cool-climate Merlot and a Tempranillo that benefit from the long ripening season.
Week 1: May 9 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm EDT: The “hidden jewel” that is Arinzano
The confluence of history / location / terroir / people / architecture / enotourism!
Tasting:
Hacienda de Arinzano White 2014 (100% Chardonnay; SRP: $19.99)
Hacienda de Arinzano Red 2012 (80% Tempranillo, 10% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon; SRP: $19.99)
Week 2: May 16 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm EDT: The D.O. Pago Designation
In 2007, Arinzano became the first estate in northern Spain to receive a designation of Vino de Pago (or D.O. Pago). This is a classification given to individual estates indicating the highest quality of Spanish wine.
Tasting:
Arinzano La Casona 2008 (75% Tempranillo, 25% Merlot; SRP: $39.99)
Week 3: May 23 - 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT: Manuel Louzada
How growing up in a multigenerational Portuguese family shapes a winemaker and a thousand year old estate
Tasting:
Arinzano Gran Vino White 2010 (100% Chardonnay; SRP: $79)
Arinzano Gran Vino Red 2008 (100% Tempranillo; SRP: $99)
Week 4: June 13 - 9:00pm - 10:00pm EDT: Future Plans via Influence
We talk rosé from a dedicated vineyard!
Tasting:
Hacienda de Arinzano Rosé 2016 (100% Tempranillo; SRP: $19.99)
o New magnum available in select markets!!!
Twitter handles to follow:
@Arinzano_US
@winestudioTINA
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The Return of Achaval-Ferrer
Tuesdays April 4, 11, 25 and Monday #WorldMalbecDay April 17 2017 | 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST hashtag #winestudio
Week 1 - Tuesday April 4 - Benchmark Malbec - 9:00pm - 10pm EST hashtag #winestudio
o Wine: Achaval-Ferrer 2015 Malbec Uco Valley, Luján de Cuyo, Medrano, Mendoza Argentina
Comparison of the 2015 Malbec with previous vintages, the weather conditions were very different. The vineyards experienced lower temperatures and more rain. These conditions marked the 2015 wines with a great aromatic expression, vivacious fruit and balanced acidity, with a good concentration and freshness.
The winemaking team characterizes the 2015 Achaval-Ferrer Mendoza Malbec with “very particular elegance and finesse.” The team is vigilant in selecting the best fruit to create iconic wines. Due to weather conditions of the 2015 vintage, production is just half of the 2013 production.
Week 2 - Tuesday April 11 - Cabernet Comes out of the Shadows
o Wine: Achaval-Ferrer 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Agrelo, Medrano Mendoza Argentina
What exactly is Cabernet's role in Argentina and will it rival the king that is Malbec? And does Cabernet Sauvignon have huge potential as the mainstay of Argentine’s top red wines.We'll discuss how Cabernet Sauvignon is treated in the vineyard and cellar in comparison to Malbec.
Week 3 - Monday April 17 - World Malbec Day! We'll taste same wine, two vintages - blind! (WSET Tasting Grid)
#WorldMalbecDay is celebrated on April 17, to commemorate the day when president Domingo Faustino Sarmiento of Argentina officially made it his mission to transform Argentina's wine industry. On that day, back in 1853, he tasked Michel Aimé Pouget, a French soil expert, to bring over new vines. We'll talk about #WorldMalbecDay and what it means for the wine industry and the variety.
We taste two Achaval-Ferrer wines blind using the WSET III Modified Tasting Grid Format - plus we use our own memory associations triggered by our olfactory sense to describe the wines in more of a free-form way.
Week 4 - Tuesday April 25 - The Coveted 2015 Cabernet Franc!
Cabernet Franc is the newest addition to the Achaval-Ferrer portfolio and we're lucky to taste on #winestudio! Cabernet Franc has become somewhat of a hot button grape of late but oenologist Gustavo Rearte and the winemaking crew eschew fads, rather focusing on what works well for the sand and caliche-laden soils of the Uco Valley appellation where they source the Cabernet Franc grape.
This is our final evening with Achaval-Ferrer so find your own Achaval-Ferrer wine here and join the online convo!
A few Twitter handles to follow:
@AchavalFerrerUS
@TavoRearte
@winestudioTINA
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Meeker Wine
Tuesdays 7 and 14 March 2017 | 9:00pm - 10pm EST hashtag #winestudio
Meeker Vineyard has been in operation for over 30 years in Dry Creek Valley. Their wines have evolved a tremendously under second generation winemaker Lucas Meeker, the 31 year old son of Charles & Molly, founders of Meeker. His passion is for crafting low pH, high acid wines, while adhering to an ethos of truth in wine-making. He believes in food friendly wines that are meant to age; wines that do not lean on residual sugar or a preponderance of new oak to make them palatable.
Meeker was the 8th winery in Dry Creek Valley to be granted a permit in the post prohibition era. As with most small businesses, there were some trials and tribulations which led to the family selling off their original winery property back in 1998. However, Meeker has remained in business as a "warehouse" winery since that time. They now operate out of a space a few blocks off the Healdsburg Plaza and have a tasting room up in Geyserville, where they have been pouring wine to guests for just over 18 years!
Tuesday, 7 March 9:00pm - 10pm EST hashtag #winestudio
Meeker Vineyard 2013 Hoskins Ranch Vineyard Dry Creek Valley Grenache $38
Meeker Vineyard 2013 Dry Creek Valley Cabernet Franc $45
Tuesday, 7 March 9:00pm - 10pm EST hashtag #winestudio
Meeker Vineyard 2013 Winemaker’s Handprint Merlot Sonoma County
@MeekerWine
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Eppie Ordaz, winemaker Ordaz Family Wines
Tuesdays 21 and 28 February 2017 | 9:00pm - 10pm EST hashtag #winestudio
Eppie Ordaz was recently named one of several "winemakers to watch" according to Sonoma Magazine. He works alongside his famous Father, Chuy (pronounced Chew-ey) Ordaz who is synonymous with some of the more famous vineyards of Sonoma.
Tuesday 21 February
2014 Placida Vineyard Pinot Noir $38
Tuesday 28 February
2012 Sandoval Vineyard Malbec $25
@Ordazwines
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Massanois Imports - The Mosel German Collection.
Tuesdays, January 17, 24, 31 2017 - 9pm EST - 10pm EST hashtag #winestudio
Tuesday, 17 January 9pm - 10pm EST
Karthäuserhof estate @Karthaeuserhof
While the estate produces the classic Prädikat wines, they have long been ahead of the curve and renowned for their dry Rieslings, an area of increasing popularity among Riesling lovers.
Karthäuserhof Riesling Ruwer QbA 2015
Karthäuserhof Riesling Grosses Gewachs 2009 / 2010/ 2011/ 2012
Tuesday, 24 January 9pm - 10pm EST
Max Ferdinand Richter estate
The wines enjoy worldwide acclaim. They are ambassadors of the rich cultural heritage of the unique Mosel landscape. Mike Shaw, long time US agent for the brand will be joining us!
Richter Brauneberger Juffer Kabinett Riesling 2015
Richter Graacher Himmelreich Kabinett Riesling 2015
SRP $22
Tuesday, 31 January 9pm - 10pm EST
Massanois Imports LLC
A candid discussion with the importer with special guest Amy Ezrin, Senior VP @lavinaia
Join the conversation online - hashtag #winestudio
@winestudioTINA
@lavinaia
@massanois
@Karthaeuserhof
#Karthäuserhof
#Karthäuserhofberg
@mneshaw
#maxferdrichter
#moselriesling
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Talking with Troon.
Our guest is the legendary Craig Camp!
Tuesdays, November 15, 22, 29 - 9pm EST - 10pm EST hashtag #winestudio
We're joined by the legendary Craig Camp, who recently relocated to Oregon and joined longtime winery Troon Vineyard to, as Craig puts it: "...be a pioneer in an emerging AVA."
That emerging AVA would be Applegate Valley in Southern Oregon where Troon's mountain vineyards create a singular micro-climate with granitic soils much like Beaujolais and Sardegna.
Our focus for the next three weeks:
- Natural winemaking - indigenous yeasts, little or no sulfur, no new oak, no acid or sugar added during fermentation
- LIVE and Salmon Safe certified vineyards
- Applegate Valley - unique micro-climate, granitic soils like Beaujolais and Sardegna
- Warmer than the Willamette Valley, cooler than the Napa Valley - Mountain vineyards
- Varieties selected for soils and climate - Vermentino, Tannat, Tempranillo and Rhône varieties
- Historic Oregon vineyards first planted in 1972
Tuesday 15 November - 9pm EST - 10pm EST
2014 Troon Black Label Vermentino, Applegate Valley
Tuesday 22 November - 9pm EST - 10pm EST
2014 Troon Blue Label Sangiovese, Applegate Valley
Tuesday 29 November - 9pm EST - 10pm EST
2014 Troon Black Label M*T, Applegate Valley
A few Twitter handles to follow:
@CraigCamp
@TroonWines
@winestudioTINA
