The Sarah Jane English Newsletter:  86th Edition
November 11, 2007

TOP PICKS OF THE MONTH (prices vary store to store) $Best Buy

WINERY OF THE MONTH: KING ESTATE KING ESTATE, southwest of Eugene, Oregon,  celebrates 16 years of  winemaking during 2007.  Happily, I've visited this remarkable winery and seen the operation first hand.  It could easily be a blueprint for growing wines the best way.  I've monitored and tasted KING ESTATE  wines from this stellar  process since the advent.  It's a joy to see quality maintained while the wine-making team strives to learn more and continues to increase expertise.  The property  produces Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and small amounts of Chardonnay.  The focus is limited and intense.     Founded in 1991 by the King family, the committment is to produce Oregon wines of exceptional quality by using sustainable farming methods, meticulous fruit selection, impeccable winemaking practices and judicious blending.  The 1,000-acre estate is certified organic - including 490 acres of  vineyards, orchards, and vegetable and flower gardens.     At the top of a knoll that rises above the surrounding land is an impressive, European-style winery.  The winemaking process is also certified organic.     Marketing Director Steve Thomson writes me, " You have been watching our wine program for a long time, Sarah Jane, and I am always particularly interested in your idea of the bigger-picture view of where we are heading and how we are perceived in the trade."  I'm pleased to let Steve know that the bigger-picture view is keen and that King Estate is perceived as very fine indeed.  My students, who are not the least timid about expressing their opinions, are delighted when we taste these wines and express their whole-hearted approval.   The time and attention devoted to KING ESTATE wines is rewarding for all.   The winery building reflects the architectural tradition of a French chateau and encompasses approximately 110,000 square feet, owned and fully funded by the King family.  They are committed to creating world-class wines that reflect the vineyards in which they grow. The signature wines are based on a core of organically grown estate fruit with additional fruit sourced from sustainably grown vineyards throughout the Willamette Valley.  The King Estate Domaine Series wines are made exclusively from estate-vineyard organically grown grapes.  "Each vintage reflects the unique terroir of this special piece of earth we call the King Estate 'Domaine' vineyard," Steve says.  The Visitor Center is home to The Restaurant and Wine Bar.   "We feature complimentary wine tasting and winery tours as well as a full lunch and dinner menu with dishes that incorporate our estate and locally grown organic ingredients that fully complement our wines," Steve says.  "If you are interested in making a reservation please contact The Restaurant at 1-800-884-4441. www.kingestate.com 

SPLURGE WINE OF THE MONTH: SIDURI 2006 Pisoni Vineyard Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands $54 (please see data below)

NEWS  

ROBERT and MAGRIT MONDAVI Celebrated 41st Blessing of Grapes: Robert and Margrit Mondavi and Genevieve Janssens, director of winemaking, presided over the 41st annual blessing of the grapes at the Robert Mondavi Winery in Oakville.  A tradition that began with the winery’s founding in 1966, the festivities celebrated the bounty of harvest and honored the contributions of the winery staff.   and noted the solemnity of the day.  Genevieve thanked the winery team, saying, “Wine never makes itself: it takes a group effort.  I thank everyone for helping us continue this journey that Mr. Mondavi started.”
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JOSEPH PHELPS Vineyards 2004 Insignia has been released.  For the first time, the blend is entirely estate-grown fruit.  It is the smallest Insignia vintage since 1996.   Winemaker Craig Williams describes it as "syrupy blackberry and blueberry aromas, married with seductive spice, followed by velvety tannins, roundness in the finish and outstanding texture, all of which are superbly integrated."   The Wine Spectator Insider awarded it 94 points on 8-8-07 and Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate scored it 94-96 (12-26-06), continuing 30 years of high-ratings history for Joseph Phelps Insignia.  Orders are taken via phone (707) 963-2745, fax (707) 963-4831, or online (orders are for delivery only, not for winery pick up).  The retail price is $200 and the price for members of Phelps Preferred is $160 per bottle.  jpvwines@jpvwines.com

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MONTEREY COUNTY VINTNERS and GROWERS ASSOCIATION (MCVGA) Celebrate California Wine Month: Monterey harvest activities and special events surrounded Gov. Schwarzeneggar's proclamation of September at California Wine Month.  For the third year, he cited the wine industry's contributions to the state's economy, lifestyle, tourism and environment.  The largest local collaborative celebration was "Salute to Agriculture."  Salinas Valley has 39,000 acres under vine.   The Wine Institute, an association of over 1000 California wineries and wine-related businesses, was instrumental in organizing wine events.  www.montereywines.org 

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ANDELUNA CELLARS Awarded Decanter Highest Honor: Andeluna Cellars, a new winery in Mendoza, Argentina, announced its 2003 Limited Reserve Cabernet Franc won the Decanter World Wine Awards International Trophy for best Bordeaux Single Varietal over £10.  “This is the highest award a winery can receive in the Bordeaux Single Varietal category,” said Mike Kenter, VP of Sales and Marketing for Andeluna Cellars. “We're pleased our wine has received this high honor from an important, renowned international wine competition."  Andeluna Cellars is at the foothills of the Andes in the premier Argentina wine region of Mendoza at 4,300 ft. surrounded by 170 acres of mature vineyards.   For information: www.andeluna.com or  info@andeluna.com.   

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SIDURI WINERY Named One of Best Winery Tours: Food & Wine Magazine (1,000,000 readers) has named Santa Rosa’s SIDURI Winery to their short list of “Napa and Sonoma’s Best Winery Tours.”  Known for its extensive offering of cult-status Pinot Noir, SIDURI joins the ranks of Kuleto Estate, etc. on the prestigious list.  The October article reports, “Using grapes from vineyards throughout California and Oregon, Adam and Dianna Lee make an astonishing 27 different Pinot Noirs under the SIDURI label and 12 Syrahs for NOVY Family Wines.  Their Santa Rosa winery’s in a bare bones warehouse, but the appointment-only tours – usually given by one of the Lees – include a sampling of wines aging in barrels for a preview of upcoming vintages.” www.siduri.com or www.novyfamilywines.com for more information. Siduri Wines 980-C Airway Court, Santa Rosa, CA ph: 707-578-3882 http://www.siduri.com, http://www.novyfamilywines.com  

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KENDALL-JACKSON 2007 HARVEST UPDATE Late September:  In meteorology lingo, "cut-off low, weatherman’s woe" is a low pressure weather system that breaks off from the main jet stream airflow.  K-J Vice President George Rose tells me that it's "most common here in California during the winter months.  The Earth’s jet streams encircle the globe with tremendous force and are the main conveyor belt of our daily weather.  When a large air flow gets cut-off from the jet stream, long-range forecasting becomes difficult.  Computer models predicting hourly, daily or weekly weather are unreliable," George explains.    "When a "cut-off low" occurs in the Pacific Ocean offshore of California, the low-pressure air acts like a water pump, pushing clouds and moisture into untypical areas.  That's what happened mid-September where California was busy with an early 2007 grape harvest, setting record amounts of rainfall throughout California.   Southern California had the most severe flooding.  For much of the North and Central Coast, however, the two-day weather event merely stalled what had been a fast start to an early harvest.  In Napa and Sonoma counties, the brief rain knocked much of the vineyard dust off the leaves.  For Kendall-Jackson winemakers, the respite meant time to clear the stainless steel fermentation tanks and make room for the remaining grapes still on the vine."  Winemaker Randy Ullom says, "Overall grape quality is very good, though tonnage is down on some varieties.  The late September warmth definitely moved the grape sugars to their optimum levels more quickly, especially on our Napa and Sonoma mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.  Our Santa Barbara County vineyards are in full harvest mode, with Monterey County just getting up to speed. The Chardonnay and Pinot Noir flavors on the Central Coast are some of the finest we’ve seen in years."

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PASO ROBLES Report on Harvest: Winemakers and Growers Optimistic about 2007 Vintage.  "The wine grape harvest  is 25% complete (Sept. 25) across Paso Robles County.  Picking began August 21-- two weeks earlier than average.  A heat spike lasted through Labor Day to jumpstart harvest.   Recent weather extends hang time to ensure full flavor development.  Paso Robles winemakers and growers predict lighter yields and high quality for 2007 vintage.   Among the attributes that make the Paso Robles AVA a world-class wine region is the long, consistent growing season.  The region’s various microclimates make it conducive to grow more than 40 different varietals within 26,000 bearing vineyard acres.  Harvest is expected to extend through the end of October and into early November."

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ALASKA Treats Gourmands:  ALASKA's restaurants have won national recognition.  Local chefs like Kirsten Dixon, Christophe Ticarro and Al Levinsohn have all cooked at the James Beard House.   Three Anchorage restaurants were named to Wine Spectator's "Best of" Award of Excellence list: Cosair, Marx Bros. Cafe and The Crow's Nest, and nine were named to "Award of Excellence."   USA Today "Top 25 dishes of 2006" includes items from Gwennie's Old Alaska Restaurant and Mumbo Gumbo, both in Anchorage.   New York Times Frank Bruni praised his meal at Lavelle's Bistro in Fairbanks.  To plan a food tour of Alaska, contact Meghan Aftosmis, Alaska Travel Industry Association, 212/219-3362, meghana@bernholzandgraham.com or www.travelalaska.com                                                                                ALASKA Fall Festivals: The fall season offers many cultural events: "Alaska Day in Sitka," home of Russian transfer of Alaska to U.S.A., celebrates weeklong events with kayak races, croquet tournament, folk dances and more.  Alaska Natives celebrate their roots at the Intertribal Gathering at Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage with powwow traditions: indigenous storytelling, dancers, drummers, and performers.   Watch the bald eagles land at Haines' Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagles Preserve--largest gathering of eagles worldwide.  Over 3000 come to feed on salmon in the Chilkat River.   The Alaska Bald Eagle Fest celebrates this annual gathering, and is scheduled from Nov. 7 through 11, 2007.  The festival will include nature tours, photography classes and guided eagle viewing.  For information: Sandy Lorrigan, Sitka Convention and Visitors Bureau (907) 747-5940, director@sitka.org
www.sitka.org   Contact: Jinnie Roes, Alaska Native Heritage Center (907) 330-8055 jroes@alaskanative.net
www.alaskanative.net    Lori Stepansky, Haines Convention and Visitors Bureau (907) 766-2234 lstepansky@haines.ak.us
www.haines.ak.us
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PALMAZ Vineyards, a new luxury-class producer of Cabernet Sauvignon, has opened its underground winemaking facility.  By appointment, Palmez family members will personally conduct tours and wine tastings to visitors.  PALMAZ Vineyards is at 4029 Hagen Road, Napa, CA 94558.  For information call Florencia Palmaz at (707) 226-5587.  For retail sales call Jessica Palmaz (800) 592-2306 ext. 228 or go to www.palmazvineyards.com

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FALL CREEK Announces the 3rd Texas Fall Fest & Wine Auction, Friday, November 2-4 at Horseshoe Bay Resort Marriott Hotel: Online tickets, information and registration  www.texasfallfest.com or call (817) 424-0507; hotel reservations (800) 452-5330         ______________________________________________

JERRY LOHR Honored by UC Davis: Jerry Lohr, pioneering founder and president of J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines and an active supporter of the UC Davis Department of Viticulture and Enology,  was honored October 12, 2007 with an Award of Distinction from the campus’ College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.   The award is presented annually to a handful of recipients whose contributions and achievements enrich the image and reputation of the college and enhance its ability to provide public service.   Lohr received the award at the "College Celebration" and was recognized as a "Friend of the College."  Lohr was praised for his many leadership roles throughout the industry and to the department.        

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L'ECOLE N° 41 celebrates 25 years of winemaking as co-owners Megan and Marty Clubb also celebrate 25 years of marriage.  Marty has established L'Ecole No. 41 as one of Walla Walla's flagship wineries with his wines representing the quality possible of the region.   

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DAVID GUAS, Pastry Chef and Owner of Damgoodsweet Consulting Group, returned to The Today Show in September 2007.  GUAS demonstrated his technique for making his decadent Mini Espresso Cakes with Fresh Raspberries and Chantilly Cream.  This marked Guas' eighth cooking segment on the program.  The Damgoodsweet Consulting Group marks the start of Guas' entrepreneurial career.  After ten years as the Executive Pastry Chef of Acadiana, Ceiba, DC Coast, and TenPenh restaurants in Washington, DC, Guas is now a private consultant to restaurants and restaurant groups around the country, developing dessert menus, advising pastry staff, and sharing his considerable expertise.  Guas also instructs cooking classes, does local pastry catering, and is finishing his first dessert cookbook, to be published sometime early in 2008.   In 2004, Guas was recognized by his peers as Washington’s Pastry Chef of the Year.  Bon Appétit selected Guas as one of eight Star Pastry Chefs in the country.  Guas has been featured in many national magazines.          

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ROSENBLUM CELLARS continues to make contributions in support of Paws With A Cause.    ROSENBLUM first announced its charitable partnership in January 2007.   In addition to building awareness for "Paws . . . " Rosenblum Cellars' sister brand--Château La Paws"--donates $6 from the sale of every case of its Cote du Bone series to help Paws assistance to dogs to individuals with special needs.  ROSENBLUM CELLARS was founded by Kent Rosenblum, who in addition to CEO and winemaker, has been a practicing veterinarian for nearly 40 years.  To express his love for animals, Rosenblum created Château La Paws line of Rhône-inspired wines.  "The relationship between Château La Paws and Paws With A Cause is a natural fit," he says.  "We are proud to contribute to the organization's amazing work.  It makes a profound difference in people's lives."

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OWL RIDGE and WILLOWBROOK together entered nine (9) wines in the 2007 Sonoma County Harvest Fair and won medals for every one - including five (5) Gold Medals!  The Gold Medal winners are: OWL RIDGE 2003 Brigden Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon and OWL RIDGE 2004 T.R. Passalacqua Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon; WILLOWBROOK 2005 Estate Grown Pinot Noir,  WILLOWBROOK 2005 Kastania Vineyard Pinot Noir and WILLOWBROOK 2005 Morelli Lane Pinot Noir.  (more below) 

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WINE THAT LOVES is now available on-line.  Tracy Gardner, president of The Amazing Food Wine Company, tells me, "The response to our concept has been terrific.  We firmly believe that food really tastes better with wine, but it has to be the right wine for the dish.   Based on all the response we’ve gotten, it’s clear that tons of people across the country agree with us.”  WINE THAT LOVES is the new food and wine concept that pairs wines with the appropriate foods right on the label.   The wines are currently matched with pasta, pizza, roasted chicken, grilled steak and soon grilled salmon. 

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MOUNT VEEDER Napa Valley Harvest Report: "This vintage is another lucky seven", says Hess Collection Winemaker, Dave Guffy, "after 1987, 1997, we now have this perfect growing year.  We had about half the usual winter rain, which created smaller vines.  At Hess, we believe in smaller vines--even in high rainfall years, so we shape vines to be smaller through reducing irrigation and pruning--smaller crop means higher quality.  Shoot growth stopped at near-perfect length, enough to ripen the grapes but not requiring hedging that produces lateral growth." Guffy added, "The 2007 weather has also been near perfect: a warm spring to create even and quick cluster flowering, and a very even summer without any heat waves.  Harvest occurs a bit later on Mount Veeder than down on the Valley Floor.  We will be picking our 210 different blocks of mountain vineyard estate fruit that spans 300 acres well into November.  Of course, Mother Nature is in charge, but so far, we couldn't be happier," Guffy concluded.

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LAKE COUNTY WINEGRAPE COMMISSION Posts Transcripts-- Oenophiles who missed the First International High Altitude Viticultural and Winemaking Symposium in Lake county can view the event transcripts online.  Leading experts in the fields focused on climate and terroir.  Topics included: The Terroir of High Altitude, The Climate of High Altitude--Characteristics of Light, Temperature and Weather at High Altitude; Measurable Effects of Altitude on Grape Wine Quality; Viticulture Up High; Winemaking -- Taming the Intensity; and Marketing--From Mountain to Table.  Interested parties can view the transcripts at http://www.theelevationofwine.org/transcripts/2007.  

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JOSEPH PHELPS VINEYARDS is offering a special opportunity for collectors of fine wine.   They are invited to join Phelps Preferred, and members will receive their first shipment that includes the 2004 Insignia and the 2004 Backus Cabernet Sauvignon.  Membership guarantees continued access to Insignia and Backus Cabernet.  The first shipment is $340 for new members of Phelps Preferred, which is 20% off the retail prices of $225 for Backus Cabernet and $200 for Insignia.  Applications will be taken via phone (800) 707-5789 or fax (707) 967-6096 or  preferred@jpvwines.com  

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The Wine Group Launches Pioneering "Green" Packaging Initiative: A new wine initiative, targeted at retailers aiming to meet corporate mandates to reduce packaging waste was announced today by David Kent, CEO of The Wine Group. "The wine industry is perhaps the most vulnerable of any food and beverage producer to 'carbon criticism,' due to its historical reliance on heavyweight glass packaging and its failure to migrate to more environmentally sensitive packages," Kent said.  The Wine Group, Inc., the world's third largest winery by volume, also announced new data that offers retailers hard facts to assist their corporate mandates to reduce carbon emissions and packaging waste.  

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NEW RELEASES (quotes are winemakers'; wines are listed as received; prices are producers' suggested retail)  

KING ESTATE celebrates 16 years of  Oregon winemaking during 2007.   Happily, I've visited this remarkable winery and it could easily be a blueprint for growing wines the best way.  Having monitored and tasted KING  wines from this stellar  process since the advent, it's a joy to see quality maintained while the wine-making team strives to learn more and continues to increase expertise.  The property produces Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and small amounts of Chardonnay: the focus is limited and intense.  Founded in 1991 by the King family, the committment is to produce Oregon wines of exceptional quality by using sustainable farming methods, meticulous fruit selection, impeccable winemaking practices and judicious blending.   The 1,000 acre-estate is certified organic - including 490 acres of organic vineyards, orchards, and vegetable and flower gardens--the winemaking process is also certified organic.  Marketing director Steve Thomson writes me, " You have been watching our wine program for a long time, Sarah Jane, and I am always particularly interested in your idea of the bigger-picture view of where we are heading and how we are perceived in the trade."  I'm pleased to let Steve know that the bigger-picture view is keen and that King Estate is perceived as very fine indeed.  My students, who are not the least timid about expressing their opinions, are delighted when we taste these wines and express their whole-hearted approval.  The time and attention devoted to KING ESTATE wines is rewarding for all.

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SIMI is a tradition-based winery that enhances procedures with cutting-edge innovation. "Our philosophy has always maintained the quality and style that identifies SIMI around the globe.   At the same time, we continue to learn and to improve our methods for growing grapes and crafting wines to reflect the experience and knowledge accumulated throughout SIMI's 125-year history," Winemaker Steve Reeder says.  "Long ago we realized Alexander Valley would be a leading appellation for growing Bordeaux varietals.  In 1989 we purchased our Russian River Valley vineyard and planted hand-selected, original cuttings from California's best and oldest vineyards. This technique gives us the amazing diversity of flavors that has made Simi's Russian River Reserve Chardonnay famous. With every taste of Simi wines you'll discover our devotion to tradition, enhanced by our pursuit of the best vineyards, the best grape-growing methods, and the best winemaking techniques.

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FOREST GLEN is part of the Bronco Wine Company.  Winemaker Ed Moody reminds us that outdoor entertaining is still in high gear and these wines are perfect for it.

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FAMILLE LIGNÈRES 2003 "Le Signal" Rouge, Montagne d'Alaric, Corbières, France $18: This wine combines Carignan (68%), Grenache (13%), Mourvedre (12%) and Syrah (7%).   Monsieur Jean Lignères tells me that the calcareous gravel terraces with the rows of vines for this wine are plowed by hand.  Although new to the U.S. market, the Domaine Famille Lignères wines are now selling in almost every state, so the reception has been positive.  This latest release is a new one but filled with family history.   "in the 1920s, our grandfather, Louis Lignères, delivered the domaine's wines to the town of Lourdes (in Pyrenees) in his Berliet barrel-carrier.  The vehicle traveled at an average speed of 6.8 miles per hour, so the journey took about 22 hours.   Upon arriving, Louis announced himself with the "Signal," the truck's characteristic horn.  This historic truck has been carefully preserved by the family and remains at the Chateau to this day.  The label of our new wine is a playful replica and the wine celebrates the history."

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MADROÑA Vineyards is powered by solar energy and the waste water is recycled and grape stems are used for erosion control in the vineyards.  "It has always been the philosophy of Madroña Vineyards to limit the impact of our farming on the environment."

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LAKE SONOMA Winery: "For the just-released 2004 Lake Sonoma Winery Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, $24 both place and vintage were significant in creating a Cabernet of power and symmetry.  Alexander Valley is blessed with moderately fertile soils and  very warm days and cool nights, which typically gives cassis and plum fruit, and supple texture.  The outstanding but untypical 2004 vintage in Alexander Valley had a cool spring, early bud break but an unusually long growing season punctuated by a September heat wave.  As a result, Cabernet Sauvignon yields were reduced; consequently, grapes displayed their distinctive fruit, but with uncommon intensity and structure.  Aromas and flavors of cassis, tobacco, mint and brown sugar and mouthfilling blackberry, plum and a hint of black pepper. Densely structured and moderate tannins balanced by moderate acidity result in a full, lingering finish."

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BONNY DOON Vineyards 2006 "Le Vol des Anges" Beeswax Vineyard, Arroyo Seco, Monterey $30 (375 bottle): Marketing Director Burke Owens says, "By happy chance, the Beeswax Vineyard at the mouth of the Arroyo Seco in Salinas Valley, gifted us with an unprecedented proportion of exceptionally clean, botrytised roussanne fruit n 2006.  Optimal weather existed in September and October and after two picking passes and very careful selection, we harvested heavily botrytised fruit.  The wine is out of this world!--incredibly rich, unctuous, honeyed, savory mouthfeel and great persistence on the palate with pome fruits like pear, quince. There's also nectarine, apricot and blood orange and a beeswax fragrance."

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DFV Wines,  with more than 80 years of  wine history, is represented by three generations of the Indelicato family.  "We've directed vineyard operations and winemaking at our California properties by maintaining the unparalleled standards our reputation has earned.  We're dedicated to environmentally sensitive and economically sustainable business practices," says Chris Indelicato, third-generation family member.  "We believe that DFV Wines answer the consumer demand for enjoyable, mindfully grown, intelligently vinified wines suitable for every occasion.  Our premium wines are selectively grown in California's most notable wine-growing regions.  Grapes come from Napa, Lodi, Monterey and Sonoma to craft wines that express the diversity of these appellations."  The Indelicato family believes that wine quality starts in the vineyard.  "DFV Wines will always strive to farm with the health of the environment in mind while providing quality wines for our customers."

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VALLEY OF THE MOON 2004 Cuvée de la Luna, Sonoma County $30: "Cuvée de la Luna is the single most challenging and exciting wine Valley of the Moon Winery produces.  Challenging because each vintage and each varietal responds to nature's conditions differently, so blending the most complex wine begins fresh annually.  Exciting because the blend demonstrates how a broad mix of viticultural vineyards and grapes can produce a remarkable meritage-style wine.  Sonoma County's outstanding 2004 vintage yielded a small crop of cabernet sauvignon grapes with concentrated character and firm tannins.   To gain lush fruit on the palate, a significant percentage of Merlot – particularly graceful this vintage – and Cabernet Franc – to enhance the bouquet – were included in the blend.  A tiny percentage of Malbec added depth and spice.  Twenty-four months of aging in French and American oak barrels contributed smoothness and subtle oak complexity.  The wine displays aromas and flavors of black cherry and cassis, hints of anise, bay leaf, cedar and vanilla nuances.  Wonderfully polished on the palate, with integrated tannins, this wine has a smooth, long, balanced finish.

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SIDURI WINERY is named for the Babylonian goddess of wine, who appears on the label.  SIDURI produces the most extensive offering of single vineyard Pinot Noirs by any California winery.  Founded in 1994 by husband and wife winemakers Adam and Dianna Lee, SIDURI produces 7500 cases of single vineyard and appellation Pinot Noir annually at prices ranging from $20-$50.  The Lees also produce a line of wines in partnership with Dianna's family, NOVY wines; the similarly priced Novy Family Wines explore many of the same vineyard sites as SIDURI, but with a focus on Syrah.  SIDURI and NOVY Family Wines are available from the winery and at fine restaurants and wine shops nationally.  SIDURI Winery is open to the public daily for tasting and touring from 10am to 4pm by appointment.  SIDURI Wines 980-C Airway Court, Santa Rosa, CA ph: 707-578-3882 http://www.siduri.com or  http://www.novyfamilywines.com

KENWOOD 2006 Reserves Show New Art: "Kenwood Reserve wines have always displayed more opulence in its Sonoma County bottlings--more depth and complexity.  And the 2006 Kenwood Reserve Chardonnay and Reserve Sauvignon Blanc capture the Reserve style perfectly.  A look at the winemaking shows their opulence to be a testament to the winemaker’s art," says P. R. Director Margie Healy.   "That art begins in the vineyard and this Chardonnay comes exclusively from Russian River Valley--one of California’s coldest vineyard regions, where cool days and cold, often foggy nights allow slow ripening for rich, fully developed chardonnay grapes. Kenwood Reserve sauvignon blanc grapes come primarily from Dry Creek Valley.  Dry Creek Valley’s poor soils, plentiful sunshine, warm – but not quite hot – days and cold nights enable Sauvignon Blanc to express – better than any California vineyard location–its distinctive crisp character.    Reserve winemaking is different too.    Our Chardonnay ferments entirely in small French oak barrels for integrated complexity and richness and elegance.  The Sauvignon Blanc ferments in temperature-controlled stainless steel with short aging in neutral French oak casks to soften the wine’s assertive personality.  The art includes new labels, a handsome drawing of the winery. Each Reserve label is individually numbered to reflect the limited production of these wines.  

KENWOOD Vineyards produces three Merlots.  Like many things, wine is subjective and a good wine is one that pleases the person drinking it.   Hence, KENWOOD offers three Merlots to suit varying individual tastes.   Consequently, the newly released KENWOOD 2005 Sonoma County Merlot, the KENWOOD 2004 Reserve Merlot and the KENWOOD 2005 Jack London give stylistic choices for consumers to choose among.    KENWOOD Jack London Vineyard Merlot expresses the unique power and structure of this magnificent vineyard, situated high in the hills overlooking Sonoma Valley.  Aged in small French and American oak barrels, the Jack London Merlot is bottled unblended to allow its one-of-a-kind personality to shine.  Rare among California Merlots, Kenwood Jack London Vineyard Merlot can evolve beautifully in the cellar for years.   It is Merlot for the intrepid and the patient.   

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WILLOWBROOK CELLARS history: Willowbrook started in 2001 as the dream of winemaker Joe Otos, then 26 years old.   His dream became reality when he joined retired technology executives John Tracy and Ed Sillari.  New wine-country residents Sillari and Tracy  separately explored opportunities to pursue their passion for wine.  Sillari became involved in wine sales and Tracy acquired a hilltop vineyard.   The three combined their experiences to create Willowbrook Cellars.     ¶   For the first two years, production was about 500 cases, equally split between Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with all of the fruit from Tracy’s vineyard.  In 2003 Willowbrook began increasing its production of vineyard designated wines, seeking out interesting small vineyards, each with its own microclimate and flavor profile.   ¶   In recent years, while the principal focus has been on Russian River Valley (RRV) Pinot Noir, Willowbrook has begun to explore interesting vineyards from adjacent wine growing regions.   ¶  “2005 was a true Pinot year in Sonoma County,” notes Joe Otos, partner and winemaker.   Temperatures were down, yields were down, but accolades for this vintage’s rock-star Pinot Noirs are up, up, up.   Willowbrook Cellars made three 2005: the Morelli Lane Pinot Noir and their Estate-Grown Pinot from the Russian River Valley, and a new Sonoma Coast bottling from one of the few vineyards tucked in between San Francisco Bay and the Pacific.  In competitions, Willowbrook's 2004 Pinot Noirs hauled in Gold and Best of Class awards.  The buzz about the 2005s has been excellent and at the Sonoma County harvest Fair, all three Pinot Noirs won gold medals.  The Harvest Fair had 1000 Sonoma County wines competing with each other and these wines are among the best from Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast."  

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OWL RIDGE wines:  Owner John Tracy writes, "We began Owl Ridge Wines to take advantage of the high-quality cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay grapes grown in Sonoma County.  Winemaker Joe Otos uses 100% French oak and winemaking techniques that preserve the intensity of the fruit flavors.  The resulting wines are big, but balanced.   We have now reached the point where our wines have begun to achieve the recognition they deserve.  Owl Ridge Wines was voted “Best New Winery” at the 2006 Wine Literary Awards Tasting.  This is a significant honor because more than 80 wine writers voted in a secret ballot at a tasting that had 1000 wines.    We have also won 18 gold medals in the last year at major competitions. This includes two “Best of Class” awards.  Placements at restaurants and fine wine outlets are beginning and will be listed on this website from time-to-time.    We have also just begun publicizing our wine club. Please see www.owlridge.com 

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MERIDIAN has news releases to share.  Winemaker Lee Miyamura tells me harvest is in full swing and they've already picked the sauvignon blanc and pinot gris grapes for next years' wines.  So enjoy these and look for more to come.  "Each year we strive to produce vibrant, fruit-driven wines that deliver consist quality.   All these wines have the bright fruit flavors and natural acidity that are the hallmarks of MERIDIAN," Lee says.  "We believe wine should make the simple of moments in life more enjoyable, and our wines are crafter to be approachable and easy to pair with a variety of foods."

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MATUA has new releases from New Zealand.  Matua Valley Wines began as a small, family-run winery in West Auckland, New Zealand, in 1973.  In the next few years, winemakers Ross and Bill Spence quickly gained a reputation for innovative, award-winning New Zealand wines - including the first New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.   Today, Matua Valley produces a wide range of distinctive wines--innovative, award-winning New Zealand wines that are now enjoyed all over the world.

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BRONCO Wine Company has released two sparkling wines: CRANE LAKE Brut and DOMAINE LAURIER Brut Methode Champenoise.

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SBRAGIA Family Vineyards Owner Ed Sbragia tells me, "I'm in the throes of harvest, and although 2007 marks my 33rd, I have to say that it is still really magical, exciting (and exhausting) time of year for me.  2007 has two significant milestones for Sbragia Family Vineyards.  First, we're crushing all our grapes at our new winery in Dry Creek, and secondly, in November we will celebrate our one year anniversary of being open to the public.  I've really enjoyed welcoming old and new friends to our winery.   Our latest releases are the 2005 Gamble Ranch Chardonnay ($40), 2004 Monte Rosso Cabernet Sauvignon ($50), 2004 Rancho del Oso Cabernet Sauvignon ($75), and 2004 Wall Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ($75).  My friend Duane Wall's vineyard is on Mt. Veeder.  He grows fantastic grapes, and, Duane is a cooper as well so the wines are aged in his barrels.

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WINE THAT LOVES is the new food and wine concept that pairs wines with the appropriate foods right on the label.   The wines are currently matched with pasta, pizza, roasted chicken, grilled steak and soon grilled salmon. 

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KENWOOD VINEYARDS 29th ARTIST SERIES CABERNET: "California’s finest expression of art and wine gains a new masterpiece with Kenwood Vineyards 2003 Artist Series Cabernet Sauvignon ($70)," says Margie Healy, Kenwood VP.  "This 29th edition combines the artistic expressions of Winemaker Pat Henderson and artist Vincent van Gogh, which help continue the Artist Series as an American classic."   ¶   The Series began (1975) with handcrafting and labeling the finest Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon and a unique label of fine art.  It instantly became one of California’s most coveted and collected wines.   ¶  Cabernet Sauvignon selected from the best hillside lots fermented separately in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, then each lot was racked into primarily small French oak barrels to age for 29 months.  After bottling, the wine aged an additional 18 months before release.  ¶  This wine exhibits aromas and flavors of black currant, raspberry and blueberry, complemented by mint and bittersweet chocolate notes. Concentrated raspberry, blueberry and black cherry flavors show layered complexity against a subtle spice background. Impressive weight, structure and balance combine with integrated tannins to give this youthful Cabernet Sauvignon opulence on the palate that stays focused through the long finish. Approachable now, this Artist Series Cabernet Sauvignon should continue to evolve in the cellar for several years.  ¶   The 2003 Artist Series label features “The Starry Night,” a famous painting by Vincent van Gogh.  Born in Holland (1853), van Gogh was a post-Impressionist whose work influenced modern Expressionism, Fauvism and early abstraction.  "The Starry Night"  was painted in June of 1889 during his stay at France's Saint-Rémy asylum.   It uses swirling brushstrokes and saturated color to communicate heartfelt drama and emotion.  It was created just 13 months before the artist’s death in 1890.  ¶   The Artist Series is one of four Kenwood Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignons.  The winery also makes Jack London Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon, and Yulupa Cabernet Sauvignon, produced exclusively for restaurants.

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LAKE SONOMA 2005 Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley $17: "Enjoy barbecue with feasts of ribs, steaks, chicken, fish or links, sweet or spicy sauces, slow cooked or gently seared.  This Lake Sonoma Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel has the robust fruit and spice to pair deliciously with hearty fare.   ¶   Dry Creek Valley, widely acknowledged as California’s best appellation for growing Zinfandel, gives this Zinfandel impressive berry character, but it's the care from vine to bottle that gives it one-of-a-kind appeal.  A range of vineyard techniques, from “opening” the canopy to harvesting when the grapes are physiologically ripe, but not overripe, provides generous fruit and balanced acidity.  In the winery, gentle pressing after fermentation helps minimize tannin extraction and 18 months aging in small, mostly seasoned French and American oak barrels allows the wine to gain subtle complexity.  ¶   The wine displays aromas of raspberry and blackberry, a spice background with subtle vanilla, raspberry and blackberry dominating the flavors, with hints of black pepper.    Impressively mouthfilling and polished with seamlessly layered fruit and soft, elegant tannins, this Zinfandel remains silky smooth through its lingering finish.  

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BERINGER Knights Valley wines have been released as well as bottles from the BERINGER Third Century collection.  "Distinctive quality that can only be created from the rustic, unspoiled vineyards and unique alluvial soils that make up Sonoma’s Knights Valley is located 17 miles northwest of the winery.  Knights Valley vineyard has volcanic, well-drained soils that are perfectly suited to Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Sémillon.   "BERINGER Third Century is a tribute to three centuries of winemaking excellence.  This remarkable collection reflects Beringer’s time-honored heritage.  Each wine is expressly crafted to inspire today’s discerning palate as it forms a bridge between past, present and future.   With Third Century, the oldest continuously operating winery in the Napa Valley invites a new generation to experience the timeless pleasure of Beringer wines that are approachable, accessible and irresistible.  The Syrah and the Sauvignon Blanc are two new additions to the collection."

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Penfolds KOONUNGA HILL blended the overly abundant good fruit produced in Australia's Barossa Valley in 1976 to create a single  wine made of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz to sell at a humble price.  Thus began the tradition of Koonunga Hill Shiraz Cabernet.  It was an instant hit with wine drinkers seeking a high quality everyday quaffer and the rest is history.    Look for reviews next Newsletter.

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© 2007 Sarah Jane English
Sarah Jane: sarahjaneenglish@sbcglobal.net
Webmaster:Texas Computer Technologies

truck's characteristic horn.  This historic truck has been carefully preserved by the family and remains at the Chateau to this day.  The label of our new wine is a playful replica and the wine celebrates the history."

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MADROÑA Vineyards is powered by solar energy and the waste water is recycled and grape stems are used for erosion control in the vineyards.  "It has always been the philosophy of Madroña Vineyards to limit the impact of our farming on the environment."

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