The Sarah Jane English Newsletter:  99th Edition
October 23, 2009

 

SPECIAL FEATURE on IDAHO HARVEST at Ste. Chapelle Winery;   What a treat it was to discover Idaho's wine country and Boise (capital city of about 235,000 population) on a recent wine trip.  Refreshing, uncrowded Boise is clean, quiet (no disturbing night sounds to disrupt your sleep), a visual delight of well-maintained landscapes and compelling sights of nature—including the vineyards—and filled with polite people.  This southwestern-Idaho, high-desert area shares borders with Oregon and Washington, states also known for producing fine wines.  Idaho is the youngster among them with only 41 wineries.  The largest, Chateau Ste. Chapelle, is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2009 and over the years has garnered a host of awards and medals for its many value-priced wines.  ¶  Exploring the Snake River Valley area, its wineries and its restaurants--especially during harvest--is a real bonus!  Ste. Chapelle Winemaker Chuck Devlin was a delightful host and teacher for his, as well as other, vineyard visits.  Devlin gave a guided tasting through the diverse, well-awarded Ste. Chapelle portfolio: Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Syrah, sparkling and the incomparable Riesling ice wine.  Ste. Chapelle’s well-priced table wines ($7 to $10) are available throughout the U.S. and can satisfy an abundance of preferences to enjoy before and during dining.  Select your favorite varietal from any of the three tiers (Winemaker's Choice, Chateau Series, and Soft Series) and you'll be satisfied.  An understanding about what the Snake River Valley offers to viniculture became clear while touring and tasting wines from some top estates; for example, Koenig Distillery & Winery, Bitner Vineyards, and Fraser Vineyard.  And in Boise, at the lively Urban Winemakers Cooperative, we tasted products from three seriously competent winemakers: Vale Wine Company, Syringa Winery and Cindar Wines.  Cindar Winemaker Melanie Krause understands just how to coax the best flavors and silken expressions from her wines.  Wine production from these producers, however, is limited (1,500 to 5,000 cases) so order bottles on the Internet: www.CindarWines.com, www.SyringaWinery.com, www.ValeWine.com, www.bitnervineyards.com, www.fraservineyard.com, www.koenigvineyards.com.  Koenig also produces Idaho Potato Vodka and European brandies; nevertheless, the wines were the stars for me and could easily win "Best of Show" in any wine competition--be it local, national or international.  The Koenig wines are extraordinarily fine.  ¶  The restaurants we visited served good, honest fare in a relaxed and attentive manner: The Orchard House (best fried onions and green tomatoes ever), Red Feather (creates feasts with all organic products) and Hotel 43--a most hospitable place to rest your head on about eight pillows while enjoying prompt room service at very fair prices (Idaho-grown oatmeal with fresh blueberries, blackberries and bananas).   The guest is foremost in mind at Hotel 43.  ¶  Ste. Chapelle Winermaker Chuck Devlin says, "From high atop Winery Hill, our winery overlooks thousands of acres of Sunny Slope's farmland.  Southern Idaho offers ideal growing conditions for vinifera grape varieties due to its high-elevation vineyards, well-drained volcanic ash soils and northerly latitude, which fosters a long growing season. The region’s cold winters allow the vines a restful dormancy, while the warm days and cool nights of summer yield grapes with perfectly balanced sugars and acids.  The Snake River winds through the valley below, exerting a benevolent influence on the vines, moderating temperatures during the cold winter months and siphoning heat from the hillsides in summer.  The valley’s dry growing-season climate minimizes the risk of mildew, and its extended harvest season allows grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, developing intense varietal characteristics while retaining high levels of acidity."  Founded in 1976, Ste. Chapelle Winery is named for King Louis IX's 13th-century La Sainte Chapelle in Paris (no one knew why).  ¶   Built with the intention of being a small operation, Ste. Chapelle quickly expanded to meet consumer's demand as the Idaho wine growing region built its reputation.  Today the winery is owned by Ascentia Wine Estates and is producing approximately 155,000 cases annually of award-winning wines distributed throughout the United States.  Winemakers continue the effort to explore and expand Idaho's wine-growing horizons.   Ste. Chapelle Winermaker Chuck Devlin, with 35 years dedicated to winemaking, has carried his experience to Ste. Chapelle, gaining recognition for his Idaho wines with gold, silver, and bronze medals.  Ste. Chapelle is Idaho's #1 selling wine brand, with a 90% + market share of Idaho Wine.    "While Idaho is best known for its fine Rieslings, Ste. Chapelle produces a selection of wines for good value in three tiers: Chateau Series, Winemakers Series and the Soft Series.  The Winemaker's Series wines are made from choice Snake River Valley grapes, reflect the artful hand of our winemaker," Devlin says.  Please see www.stechapelle.com  

WINEMAKER'S SERIES:CHARDONNAY: apple, fig, fruity and toasty oak aromas and flavors; pair with salmon, veal, poultry and pasta.  ¶  SAUVIGNON BLANC has fresh citrus and melon aromas and flavors, crisp and dry; pair with lighter seafood, vegetables, and spicy cuisines. DRY GEWURZTRAMINER: Alsatian-like with floral, peach, allspice aromas and dry, zesty flavors; pair with smoked and spicy foods.  DRY RIESLING: Alsatian style with  peach/apricot aromas and flavors, crispy; serve as an apéritif, with shellfish and richly sauced entrees.   RIESLING: melon and apricot, slightly sweet aromas and well-balanced flavors; pairs well with many dishs.     RIESLING SPECIAL HARVEST: peach, apricot and tropical fruit aromas and richly sweet flavors; spicy dishes and fruit-based desserts.   MERLOT: blackberry and oak aromas and hints of tannin on palate; game, pork, lamb and hearty pasta dishes.  ¶  SYRAH: black fruit and roasted spice aromas with bold, hearaty flavors; pair with grilled beef, lamb and game.   CABERNET SAUVIGNON: huckleberry, black cherry, and dark chocolate aromas with full-bodied flavors; pair with grilled red meats and hearty pastas.

ICE WINE: Perfect harvest conditions ripen grapes in the vineyards with icy-cold weather immediately after harvest to freeze them on the vine.   The process is arduous:gently pressed frozen clusters yield only drops of a concentrated lush nectar.  Production is extremely limited.

SPARKLING WINE: Ste. Chapelle's award-winning SPARKLING BRUT has fine bubbles and a dry finish that complements a variety of foods.  SPARKLING RIESLING is a lovely, lush,  fruity sipping wine, and ideal for any special occasion. 

I stayed an extra day for a scenic drive to McCall, due north of Boise along the Payette River route.  Look for the update in the next Newsletter.

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

WINERY OF THE MONTH: ZD WINES: Producing world-class wines was the vision of two former aerospace engineers who launched ZD Wines to pursue their dream.  The plan was for wines modeled on Burgundy, using pinot noir and chardonnay winegrapes.  In 1968, Norman deLeuze and Gino Zepponi pooled their resources of $3,000 apiece and applied for a winery permit--issued in 1969.  At that time, no winery permit had been  issued in Sonoma County for nearly 20 years.   ¶   Norman and Gino rented a farm building in Sonoma's Carneros region, bought winegrapes, 50-gallon oak barrels and a redwood vat.  Their first commercial products were 300 cases of Pinot Noir and a small amount of White Riesling (1969).  The ZD 1969 Pinot Noir is historically significance as the first wine to have a Carneros designation, stating "Made in Sonoma from grapes grown in the Carneros region of Napa."  The Chardonnay winegrapes from Winery Lake Vineyard were not in production until 1971--the first vintage of ZD Chardonnay.   ¶   The deLeuze and Zepponi families spent weekends and holidays crafting ZD's wines from grapes grown in carefully selected vineyards from some of today's most recognized wine regions.  During the 1970's, research and open-mindedness helped them try new and different varieties and growing regions.  They discovered the grape regions that best reflected ZD's developing style - wines with rich, vibrant flavors.  ¶  After 10 years of producing wine as a part-time business, Norman left engineering to devote all of his time to doing what had become a full-time passion. Norman's wife, Rosa Lee, handled the sales and marketing of the wines. A six-acre parcel of land was purchased located along the beautiful Silverado Trail in Rutherford, Napa Valley. Here, a new winery was built in 1979. One year later, Cabernet Sauvignon was planted on the surrounding property and a three varietal focus was taken, which returned ZD to its original plan. In 1980, ZD began producing only Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon.  By this time, ZD had already established a reputation for producing wines of outstanding quality, distinctive style and consistent character.  ZD WINES Chardonnay was my first most-favorite California Chardonnay and continues to be relished with happy sighs.  I discovered and enjoyed it in the home of ZD partner/owners Barbara and Gino Zepponi in 1985 with a fabulous dinner they prepared--Barbara liked a gas range and Gina liked electric so they had side-by-side ranges and cooked together.  I still hold very fond memories of Gino since his untimely death in an automobile accident more than 20 years ago.  Owner Norman deLeuze and family have contined to grow and make fine ZD wines for the pleasure of their many happy clients.  If you don't know these wines, don't delay in getting to do so.    Today, the deLeuze family still  produces wines with a personal, hands-on approach.  Over the years, all of Norman and Rosa Lee's children (Robert, Julie, and Brett) have joined the winery staff.  Robert's involvement began the day his father formed the winery and began crushing winegrapes.  From the time he was 11 years old, Robert was never far behind Norman.  In 1983, after years of practical experience and studying viticulture and enology at UC Davis, Robert became winemaker.  At the same time, Norman stepped into the title of CEO.   ¶  Julie joined the winery in 1979 as administrative director.  At first working part time, Julie became a full-time employee in 1981.  Finally, in 1988, Rosa Lee acquired some help.  Returning from California State University, Sacramento with a degree in marketing, Brett joined Rosa Lee to form a mother-son marketing team.  In 1993 ZD underwent an expansion that more than tripled the size of the winery.  Today, there are sixteen full-time employees and a tasting room staff assisting the family.   ¶  Over the years, ZD Wines have graced the tables of White House dinner parties, spanning three administrations.  The wines have garnered over 342 awards of excellence in prestigious competitions; and in 1997, ZD Wines was named a Winery of the Year by the Wine & Spirits Buying Guide.  ¶  The success of ZD Wines comes from innate skills--that certain special something every wine producer wants to have--and the dedicated winemaking philosophy of the deLeuze family.  As ZD Wines moves forward, the family continues to grow.  Norman and Rosa Lee's grandchildren represent the 4th generation to contribute their time and skills to the winery.  In 1996 the deLeuze family purchased an historical, 33-acre vineyard in Carneros.   Formerly owned by Irish immigrant Patrick Flanagan, the property is planted with 26 acres of chardonnay.  Another seven acres was planted with pinot noir which produced its first vintage in 1999.  As the winery continues to grow, so does the vision of ZD Wines. 

SPLURGE WINE of the MONTH: MAYACAMAS 1996 Cabernet Sauvignon, Library Release, Mt. Veeder, Napa Valley $150

NEWS

CALIFORNIA WINE MONTH: Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger declared September 2009 California Wine Month for the fifth year.  Recognizing the Golden State’s vintners and growers for their more than 200-year-old agricultural tradition, positive impact on the state and national economies, and commitment to sustainable winegrowing practices, the proclamation praises the wine community’s many contributions. ¶   California wine generates 820,000 jobs in the U.S., including 330,000 in California.  The state’s vintners and growers, along with California’s 80,000 restaurants, have helped make the Golden State a top destination for culinary travelers from around the world, attracting nearly 21 million visitors each year to its wine regions.  Please see discovercaliforniawine.com, includes an “Insider’s Guide to California Wine Country.”

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CONCANNON: Concannon Vineyard was recognized for its latest preservation efforts and its California Registered historic landmark  #641, which was commemorated by Native Sons of the Golden West (charitable organization preserving California history).     A founding California wine family, Concannon celebrates its 126th year as one of the nation’s oldest continuously operating winery, dating to 1883.  For four generations the family has been involved in the Livermore Valley.   It introduced America's first labeled Petite Sirah in the 1960s and introduced cabernet sauvignon clones 7 and 8 in Napa Valley.  The Concannons are committed to sustainable practices throughout their vineyard and winery operations to protect the environmental quality of the region.  ¶   “As we begin our 126th harvest, we're honored that state and community leaders join us to renew my grandfather James Concannon’s vision of a world-class estate winery in Livermore,” said third-generation vintner Jim Concannon.  He introduced three generations of family members and Emil Ciguluti, son of the mason who installed the historic plaque 50 years ago.   “Leading the trend to preserve the past while reinvesting in the future, I am pleased to recognize the Concannon‘s continued commitment and to mark its historic significance to Livermore and the state,” affirmed Garrett Drummond, renown California historian.  (please see notes below)    For more information,  www.concannonvineyard.com.  

 

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ADLER FELS WINERY has new releases: Coyote Creek is a line of "approachable, food-friendly wines that meld the character of diverse growing regions with the value of   California appellation wine."  The wines ($8 each) include Coyote Creek 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon, Coyote Creek 2008 Chardonnay, and Coyote Creek 2007 Merlot.  (please see NEW RELEASES below)  

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ROCKPILE GRAPE GROWERS ASSOCIATION, comprised of eight growers in the appellation, has published its first brochure. “The free brochure lists wineries, emphasizes the rich history and unique characteristics that make Rockpile so special,” said President Bob Gloeckner.   The pamphlet can be downloaded from the website, http://www.rockpileappellation.com.   Located at the northwest corner of Dry Creek Valley, the Rockpile AVA encompasses nearly 15,000 acres, of which less than 160 are planted to vines—all red varieties, predominantly zinfandel, cabernet, merlot, petite sirah and syrah.  This makes Rockpile one of the smallest AVAs in terms of acreage planted.   There are no wineries actually situated in the area, however there are about a dozen making appellation specific wines.  A combination of an elevation requirement, extreme terrain and unique climatic conditions distinguish it from neighboring appellations.   (Please see ARTICLES below.)

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Chef John Besh has opened Domenica Restaurant at the historic Roosevelt Hotel, New Orleans.   Besh and Executive Chef / Partner Alon Shaya, who immersed himself in Italian culture over the past year, are ‘ecstatic’ about their 150-seat restaurant.  It features long communal tables that underscore a warm familial atmosphere; an extensive variety of estate-raised pork products; and a huge wood-burning pizza oven with a rotating stone deck – ideal for crispy-crusted pizzas.  Shaya discovered it in Italy and had to have it. Domenica is open seven days a week with continuous service from 11am ‘til 11pm in the completely renovated Roosevelt Hotel. 

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MONTEREY County Vintners and Growers Association (MCVGA) Cyclists Race to Raise Funds for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities: MCVGA supports the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle with a biking team that travels from Carmel to San Simeon, California.  In this friendship race between volunteers and people with intellectual disabilities, the racers bike down the Pacific Coast Highway. Volunteers raise a minimum $1250 to support the program that funds employment opportunities for those with intellectual disabilities.  The Monterey Wine Country Racing Team is comprised of Cindy Paup and Craig Rosser, J Lohr Vineyards & Wines; Kelly Schultz, Chateau Julien Wine Estate; James Ewart, DFV Wines; Morgan LeBlanc, Estancia Winery; and Dylan Selvig, Scheid Vineyards. Additional details on Best Buddies can be found at www.bestbuddies.org MCVGA brings together the talents and resources of its members, partners and the community to promote and support leadership in the business of wine.  Founded in 1974, MCVGA, a non-profit organization, represents 85 vintners and growers in Monterey, California. For additional information, please visit www.montereywines.org, or call (831) 375-9400.  

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ZD WINES Celebrates 40th Anniversary! "ZD Wines celebrated 40 winemaking years during the Harvest Festival with great wine, food, music, a grape stomp, barrel auction and 40th Anniversary releases."  For information: ZD Wines · 8383 Silverado Trail · Napa CA 94558 · (800) 487.7757 · fax (707) 963.2640 (please see NEW RELEASES below)                           

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MAYACAMAS biannual newsletter from Bob Travers: "Another early (nowadays normal) spring budbreak was followed by extensive cool weather in June.  Summer heat in early July gave way to moderate weather mid-month.  We’ll take all the latter we can get through harvest, both for the grapes and the people.  ¶  The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon is now available (please see NEW RELEASES below).   ¶   Our 2006 Chardonnay and 2006 Sauvignon Blanc are also still available and they continue to develop as we hoped.  ¶  The 2004 Chardonnay is our library white wine release (please see NEW RELEASES below).  A library re-release, our 1996 Cabernet Sauvignon is also available (see below).  ¶  Our Wine Club sign-up form can be printed the from www.mayacamas.com.  ¶   Economic pessimism is wide-spread these days and surely the times are trying.   We remain optimistic about the future but the present difficulties do remind me of the old story about the man grumbling to his friend about his troubles.  The friend said, 'cheer up, things could be worse,' and the man recounted later how he cheered up and sure enough, things got worse."  Cheers, Bob Travers 

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KENWOOD VINEYARDS Debuts New YULUPA: Kenwood debuted the new label for its restaurant-only Yulupa Series with the release of the 2008 Kenwood Yulupa Chardonnay and 2007 Kenwood Yulupa Cabernet Sauvignon (please see NEW RELEASES below). 

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KORBEL CHAMPAGNE CELLARS Has Released KORBEL'S First Organic California BRUT Sparkling wine (please see NEW RELEASES below).

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FIRST COGNAC INTERNATIONAL AWARD:  The Bureau Interprofessional du Cognac (BNIC) launched two international awards: The International Cognac Personality of the Year and The International Cognac Writer of the Year. Cognac expert Salvatore Calabrese, a leading bartender at FIFTY in London’s St James's, received the first Personality of the Year Award.  ¶  The first Writer of the Year is Patience Gould, editor of The Spirits Business and International Spirits Editor of Drinks Business.    Nominees came from France, Germany, the USA and the UK, but, as Jérôme Durand (Head of Communications and Marketing at BNIC) explained, the awards intend to reward writers, journalists and drinks trade professionals worldwide. “These educators, all crucial to helping the trade and consumers understand Cognac, receive awards to recognise their professionalism.”

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M. A. Silva Corks Featured in The Culture of Wine: M. A. Silva Corks, USA (masilva.com) represents the wine cork industry in the George Bush Presidential Library Foundation's The Culture of Wine exposition. The exhibit explores the mystery, magic and making of wine and runs through August 22, 2010 in the Ansary Gallery of American History at the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum in College Station, Texas.  Visitors step through the exhibit’s vineyards, crushing, pressing, fermenting, barrel storage and bottling displays.  The show blends equipment, photo murals, process diagrams, and comprehensive descriptions for an in-depth learning experience.  As a leading sponsor, M. A. Silva Corks, USA collaborated on the creation of the natural cork display area that educates visitors on sustainable forestry practices, traditional hand harvesting techniques, and ecologically sound corkwood processing. Maps, diagrams and hands-on displays add interest and interaction.  To learn more about the exhibit, follow via Twitter at http://twitter.com/masilvacorksusa or visit http://www.thecultureofwine.com.  Based in Sonoma County, California, M. A. Silva provides premium natural wine corks to North American markets. With Forest Stewardship Council and PEFC certified facilities in Portugal and Northern California, M. A. Silva is proud of its leadership role and commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly operations.

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ALASKA NEWS

ALASKA's ALYESKA Resort: Alyeska Resort opens to skiers and snowboarders in late November with the addition of new terrain, extended night skiing, special packages and Alaska’s first superpipe, offering something for everyone in the 2009-2010 season.  Located 40 miles south of Anchorage, Alyeska Resort features 2,500 vertical feet of ski terrain with an additional new five ski runs. The new Alyeska Pipeline Superpipe — used by advanced skiers and snowboarders for stunts — measures 300 feet long, 55 feet wide and with walls 18 feet tall.  Alyeska will extend night skiing operations an additional two weeks (through March 27) for more hours to ski under the stars.  Special packages at Alyeska highlighting the resort spa and other amenities are available online. Alyeska Resort averages an annual snowfall of 750 inches and has the longest continuous, double-black-diamond ski run in North America.  For more information, visit www.alyeskaresort.com.

TALKEETNA offers quirky alternatives to climbing Mount McKinley: Each year over 1,000 hopeful mountaineers travel to Talkeetna to attempt to scale North America’s great one: Mount McKinley.  But Talkeetna is also renowned for its fun and quirky festivals that draw Alaskans and visitors alike to the small town located 113 miles north of Anchorage. Talkeetna Winterfest takes place each December and includes a full month of events, kicking off with the Bachelor Auction and Ball and the Wilderness Woman Contest.   During the Wilderness Woman Contest, single Alaskan women demonstrate their proficiency at a variety of tasks necessary for life on the Last Frontier — all in good fun, of course. Competitions include firewood gathering, driving a snow machine, salmon catching, sandwich making and more.  After the crowning of the Wilderness Woman, the bidding begins at the annual Bachelor Society Benefit Auction and Bachelor Ball.  Talkeetna bachelors spruce up and entertain the crowd to raise money for local charities.  The 2009 festivities kick off December 5.  For more information, visit www.alaskavisit.com. Travelers stopping by Talkeetna to take part in the hubbub can explore the surrounding wilderness on a snowshoe tour with Alaska Nature Guides. Visit www.alaskanatureguides.com to learn more.

PIKE'S WATERFRONT LODGE earns Green Star Award: Clean and green, Pike’s Waterfront Lodge in Fairbanks was presented a Green Star award for its commitment to running operations in an efficient and environmentally responsible way.   Green Star is an Alaska-based non-profit organization that encourages businesses to practice waste reduction, energy conservation and pollution prevention.  Since opening in 2000, Pike’s has been committed to lowering its carbon footprint by using environmentally friendly substances, installing solar energy and reducing waste. The hotel also teamed with the University of Alaska Fairbanks and Future Farmers of America to develop its own hydroponics program to grow food locally.  In the reuse and recycle arena, the hotel recycles oil, antifreeze and batteries in addition to normal plastics and paper.  Located beside the Chena River, Pike’s Waterfront Lodge offers rooms with a view and all the amenities for a comfortable, relaxed stay. For more information, visit www.pikeslodge.com.

50th SITKA'S Alaska Day festival: This October, the Inside Passage town of Sitka will pay special tribute to Alaska’s 50th anniversary during the Alaska Day festival, Oct. 9-18. The actual transfer ceremony occurred in Sitka on Oct. 18 when the United States purchased Alaska from Russia in 1867. The annual Alaska Day festival includes a reenactment of the transfer, a period costume ball, dances, dinners, contests and a parade. For information, visit www.alaskadayfestival.org.

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FIVE RIVERS® Winery Supports Women’s Cancer Organizations: :Over the past five years, Five Rivers® Winery has helped raise more than $250,000 to support women’s cancer organizations, including raising funds and awareness for all female related cancers.   In honor or National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Five Rivers is again working with charities nationwide.  Five Rivers highlights real-life goddesses that have been affected by cancer.  According to the National Cancer Institute there are more than 10 million cancer survivors in the United States.  This year, more than 260,000 women will be diagnosed with some form of woman’s cancer in the United States. Together we can help save the goddesses in our lives. For more information on Five Rivers Wines, visit www.fiveriverswinery.com Five Rivers' label features a series of goddess images representing the elements essential to produce award-winning wines - Earth, Air, Fire, Water and Time.   

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W.J. DEUTSCH & SONS, Ltd. (Deutsch) a leading importer and marketer of 28 award-winning wines and spirits from around the world including [yellow tail], Georges Duboeuf, and Geyser Peak, has announced the appointment of Tom Steffanci as its new President.  Steffanci, former COO of Terlato Wines Int., will oversee all of sales, marketing, finance and operations for the fifth largest wine and spirits company in the United States.  He will report directly to CEO Peter Deutsch, and will replace outgoing President Jim Mello, who will retire, but remain on the Board of Directors. 

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J. LOHR Funds Mammograms for Women in Need: J. Lohr Vineyards and Wines will fund 500 mammograms for women in need through its partnership with the National Breast Cancer Foundation.  Designated a commemorative release in honor of Jerry Lohr’s late wife Carol Waldorf Lohr, $2 from every bottle sold of  J. Lohr 2005 Carol’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon will go directly to help provide mammograms for women who would otherwise be unable to afford them.  October is National Breast Cancer Awareness month and signals the kick-off for J. Lohr’s national industry and consumer campaign.  Awarded a Double Gold Medal from the 2009 Tasters Guild International Wine Competition, the 2005 J. Lohr Carol’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon "is a robust, flavorful and elegant expression of dark currant and cherry fruit, reminiscent of Bordeaux’s finest blends of Cabernet and Petite Verdot.  To learn more about this campaign or to make a donation, please visit jlohr.com."  Founded more than three decades ago by Jerry Lohr, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines crafts a full line of internationally-recognized wines from its 3,000 acres of estate vineyards in Paso Robles, Monterey County, and the Napa Valley. Offering an expressive range of styles, J. Lohr produces three tiers of signature wines showcasing its estate grapes – J. Lohr Estates, J. Lohr Vineyard Series and J. Lohr Cuvée Series. J. Lohr also produces an array of flavorful wines under its Cypress Vineyards, ARIEL (non-alcoholic) and Painter Bridge labels.   (www.jlohr.com)

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NAPA VALLEY VINTNERS Expect Outstanding Wines from 2009 Vintage: Napa Valley's 2009 vintage has produced outstanding fruit.  Initial reports have vintners and growers delighted,  according to  Napa Valley Vintners (NVV) non-profit trade association representing 370 wineries in the appellation.  
"We're having a great time making wine in the Napa Valley," said Doug Shafer of Shafer Vineyards.   "The pace of the 2009 harvest has been terrific--even, steady, time for you and your crew to spend time with family--this has been a phenomenal year in the vineyard and in the cellar."
Overwhelmingly, comments from winemakers note the presence of forward, bright fruit with pure varietal character and the much-favored extended hang time avoided excessive ripeness.  Because there were no real heat spikes, there is phenolic maturity and ripeness without excessive sugar.
The Napa Valley Vintners, a non-profit trade association, promotes and protect the Napa Valley appellation as the premier winegrowing region.  NVV celebrates its 65th anniversary this year.  From seven founding members in 1944, the association today represents 370 Napa Valley wineries and collectively is a leader in the world-wide wine industry.  To learn more about our region and its legendary American wines, visit napavintners.com. 

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RHÔNE GATHERING CELEBRATES 18 Years: Hospice du Rhône® (HdR), a celebration of Rhône variety wines, will celebrate 18 years of all things Rhône April 29 – May 1, 2010 in Paso Robles, California USA.   Rhône producers and enthusiasts from all corners of the globe gather to celebrate the distinct twenty-two Rhône varieties.  The 2010 HdR will take place at the Paso Robles Event Center in Paso Robles and the schedule with descriptions is located on the HdR website, www.hospicedurhone.org.    Buy tickets for the 18th annual gathering on www.hospicedurhone.org beginning Tuesday, November 10, 2009.  Prices range from $100 to $795 depending on event selection: All events are limited and are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.  ¶  Hospice du Rhône® serves as an International Vintners Association providing promotional and educational opportunities through the annual event. Proceeds carry out programs that benefit Rhône producers worldwide.  Operating as a non-profit business league, Hospice du Rhône strives to improve the business conditions of grape growers and wine producers of Rhône variety wines and grapes throughout the world. Hospice du Rhône is not affiliated with any other charitable organization. Non-profit 501 (c) (6) Business League. 

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AMERICAS FOOD & BEVERAGE SHOW is November 9-10, 2009 at Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami Beach FL.  For information: americasfoodandbeverage.com

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2009 PINOT NOIR CRUSH: Pisoni, Morgan, and McIntyre Report Near Normal Yields, High Quality in the Santa Lucia Highlands (SLH), Monterey County, CA.  The SLH appellation, with more than thirty winegrowers cultivating over 2,500 acres, reported high quality and normal yields in some of California's finest Pinot Noir vineyards.     
At Pisoni Vineyard, Gary Pisoni reports, "The 2009 vintage looks very promising.  This third consecutive dry winter limited yields and the cool summer and fall (only one small heat wave) matured fruit at low sugar levels: There's great density, acidity, and high tannin levels.  Our crush began mid-September and finished mid-October, fairly traditional timelines."
   Morgan Winery's Dan Lee also reported quality off his organically-farmed Double L Vineyard. "It's a light crop, at over 100 tons, about 20% less than a 'normal' year.  The fruit is very focused; quality looks very good.  At midsummer, we were 5 to 10 days behind a 'normal' schedule. We had a temperate August with less fog and one warm spell that caught us up in sugar levels but not necessarily in flavor development.  The winemaker that looks to the flavors and not the sugar levels will be rewarded this harvest - patience is key."  
   At neighboring McIntyre Vineyard, it was the 33rd pinot noir crush on one of the district's oldest, sustainable farmed estates. Owner Steve McIntyre: "It was a great growing season, on par with '07, until Labor Day, with 'heat spikes' accelerating sugar numbers and phenolic balance lagging behind.  Happily, cool fall weather allowed the flavors to catch-up and the fruit we brought in looks very good indeed.  Just slightly higher than normal crop levels off the McIntyre property but very high quality.  The '09 vintage? Cool temperatures, no damaging rain, gentle ripening - just another perfect pinot noir harvest in paradise."   

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NEW RELEASES (quotes are winemakers' comments, prices vary from store to store)

BARGETTO 2007 Reserve Chardonnay, Santa Cruz Mountains $30:  The family at BARGETTO WINERY has produced fine Santa Cruz Mountain wines for over 75 years.   "As one of California’s historic wineries, and the oldest winery of the Santa Cruz Mountains, the third generation of Bargettos continues to pursue winemaking excellence and innovation.  BARGETTO WINERY’S Regan Estate Vineyard, on a southwest slope in the Santa Cruz Mountains, overlooks majestic Monterey Bay.  This cool climate vineyard allows grapes to develop rich and complex flavors over an exceptionally long growing season. These distinct and age–worthy wines from Regan Vineyards reflect this location. We are committed to sustainable winegrowing practices such as, biodiesel and solar electricity."  Winemaker’s Notes: Aromas of apples, citrus, flowers, and minerals seem to flow out of the glass with an invitation to the palette.  Crisp, refreshing acidity carries a very elegant, yet full-bodied, viscous mouth feel that encompasses the entire palate in a seamless balance.  Wow.   You ask how a wine could be rich and weighty, yet lean and elegantly refined?  Please taste it for yourself." Wine alcohol:14.5%; Barrel Aging:American and French Oak for 16 months; Cases produced:291 

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The new PANTHER ROCK WINE COMPANY (owned by fourth-generation Franzia family members) has introduced another new brand.  Of the 13 fourth-generation family members, Joey, Damon and Brian Franzia are managing partners.

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ADLER FELS WINERY has new releases: COYOTE CREEK is a line of approachable, food-friendly wines that combine diverse regions of grapes with value.  The wines include Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and   Merlot ($8 each).  ¶   Winemaker, Harry Parducci Jr., said “We’re not kidding when we say these are howling good wines for the price.  We cherry-pick excess inventory from among California’s top vineyards, often getting prized fruit at a fraction of the cost.  For consumers who want uncompromised value, COYOTE CREEK is hard to beat.”     Marketing Director Dana Fehler said, "Our new label mirrors the character of the wine while featuring bolder graphics and varietal color coding for our fruit-forward, accessible wines.”  Parducci makes the wines at Adler Fels’ Sonoma County winemaking facility.  “COYOTE CREEK wines are perfect 'house wines' – those that have broad appeal, pair effortlessly with food and are affordable enough to enjoy every day.”  

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CONCANNON celebrates its 126th year as the nation’s oldest continuously operating winery, dating to 1883.  Four generations have been involved in the notable Livermore Valley,    California wine region.  CONCANNON stayed open during Prohibition, introduced America's first labeled Petite Sirah (1960s) and led the introduction of Cabernet Sauvignon clones 7 and 8 in Napa Valley. Concannon is committed to sustainable practices throughout its vineyard and winery operations to protect the environmental quality of the region.   

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MAYACAMAS Vineyards is a wine estate in the Mayacamas Mountains that divides Napa and Sonoma Valleys.  The old stone winery rests on the edge of a dormant volcano crater, near the top of Mt. Veeder.   Fifty two acres are planted on mountain sides ranging from 1,800 to 2,400 feet above sea level.  They yield small crops of tiny, intensely flavored grapes that give very full character development in the wines.  Winemaker Robert Travers makes wines that preserve this intensity.  Deer, eagles, coyotes and an occasional bear still inhabit this rugged terrain.  Average annual wine production is approximately 5,000 cases, mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, with smaller quantities of Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir also produced.  "Mayacamas is very small and we intend to keep it that way," says Bob Travers. "Our objective is to make wine with as much flavor, complexity and character as grapes can deliver. Given proper care and enough time, we believe these wines will be the most interesting and enjoyable of all."  Current wines releases include 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2006 Chardonnay and Library wines 1996 Cabernet Sauvignon and 2004 Chardonnay. ¶   The winery was built in 1889 by John Henry Fisher, a German immigrant sword engraver who became a pickle merchant.  His family used the winery as a summer home and raised horses for wagons he used to deliver pickles and later his barrels of wine, which were ferried to San Francisco to be bottled and sold.  ¶  Unfortunately, the Fishers had to declare bankruptcy and the winery fell into disuse, although legend says bootleggers made wine in the stone cellar.  Eventually, Mary and Jack Taylor bought the land (1941) and restored the winery.  They turned the old stone cellar into their home and named the estate Mayacamas Vineyards.   ¶  In 1968, Elinor and Robert Travers bought the property and under their direction, aging facilities have been enlarged, neighboring land has been purchased, and vineyard clearing, planting and replanting are an ongoing process.  In addition to Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, small blocks of Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Cabernet Franc are grown.

SHAFER  "Hillside Select is made of 100 percent Cabernet Sauvignon fruit sourced from rugged hillside vineyard blocks on our Stags Leap District Estate.  Truly a 'wine of a place,' this Cabernet exemplifies the extraordinary richness and suppleness consistently produced in our little valley within a valley.  This wine is aged a full four years prior to release (three years in Alliers and Tronçais oak barrels and one year in the bottle). While enjoyable today, this wine will gain richness and maturity with up to 20 years of careful cellaring.," says Doug Shafer.  “When I released my first Cabernet Sauvignon, the 1978 vintage, everyone remarked on its softness and asked how much Merlot I'd blended in. 'None,' I replied; it was 100% hillside-grown Cabernet.  In later vintages, when that wine became our Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon, I realized tasters had identified the supple, velvety tannins that are the hallmark of Stags Leap District Cabernet,” says John Shafer.   Winemaker’s Notes: “The 2005 Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon ($210) is dark and voluptuous with rich density, balancing elegant, extracted fruit and youthful power. These are the signature aromas and flavors of our hillside vineyards – loads of blackberry, black cherry, cassis, dark chocolate, and black spice integrated seamlessly with vanilla and oak, all drawn together by silky-textured, ripe tannins. This is a vintage that I'd compare to 1994 and 1997.” Elias Fernandez 

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][][]DRY CREEK VINEYARD has the answer to home entertainment or other happy celebrations.  Please note, DRY CREEK VINEYARD 2008 Fumé Blanc has NOT been replaced, by the new Sauvignon Blanc introduced several weeks ago. Additionally, there are two other helpful suggestions below.

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KENWOOD JACK LONDON VINEYARD 30thCABERNET SAUVIGNON: The 2006 Kenwood Vineyards Jack London Cabernet Sauvignon is the 30th anniversary bottling of this single-vineyard wine.  Cabernet lovers have plenty to celebrate because this wine is a classic that ranks among the finest.  Kenwood marked the anniversary with a unique commemorative bottling.  This vineyard rests high in the western hills of the Sonoma Valley, where well-drained volcanic soils, temperate climate and southeastern exposure produces grapes of extraordinary intensity, depth and balance.  Originally planted to grapes in the 1870s, Jack London bought the 130-acre property in 1905; the first of several adjacent parcels that became his Beauty Ranch, where he lived with his wife Charmian until his death in 1916.  Managed by Eliza Shepard, London’s stepsister, and later by her descendants, Beauty Ranch remained intact until 1959, four years after Charmian’s death, when much of the land was donated to establish Jack London State Park.  ¶    In 1972, Milo Shepard, Eliza Shepard’s grandson, planted Jack London Vineyard on the 130 acres, which remains today under family ownership.  The remarkable quality of the first Cabernet Sauvignon vintage motivated neighboring Kenwood Vineyards to enter into an exclusive agreement to purchase Jack London Vineyard grapes.   Kenwood Jack London Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, with a label featuring London’s 'Wolf' bookplate logo, debuted with the 1977 vintage.  As vineyard plantings matured, Kenwood Vineyards introduced additional Jack London Vineyard bottlings: Zinfandel beginning with the 1987 vintage, Merlot beginning with the 1990 vintage and Syrah beginning with the 2002 vintage. "The superb quality of Jack London Vineyard wines has made them both consistent medal winners at wine competitions and among the most successful single-vineyard collections in California wine history.  Deep in color, the 2006 Kenwood Jack London Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ($35) displays bold black currant aromas accented by generous notes of spice and mint.  The concentrated flavors showcase black currant, raspberry and dried cherry fruit along with subtle spice complexity. Rich and mouthfilling, yet beautifully balanced, it stays smooth through the lingering finish. Deftly integrated tannins enable this impressive Cabernet to be enjoyed now or cellared for additional elegance and nuance.  ¶  To honor this 30th anniversary vintage, 11,800 six-bottle cases of the 2006 Kenwood Vineyards Jack London Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon are being distributed worldwide with commemorative silk-screened bottles that feature a unique, large-scale rendition of Jack London’s 'Wolf' logo. The remainder of the vintage (15,900 six -bottle cases) is available in the traditional Kenwood Jack London Vineyard package.  Both renditions will be available at a suggested retail of $35 a bottle." Established in 1970 in the Sonoma Valley, Kenwood Vineyards produces premium wines that showcase Sonoma County’s world-class vineyards. www.kenwoodvineyards.com

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ZD WINES 2007 Reserve Chardonnay, Napa Valley $55.  This Chardonnay was my first most-favorite California Chardonnay and continues to be relished with happy sighs.   I discovered and enjoyed it in the home of ZD partner/owners Barbara and Gino Zepponi in 1985 with a fabulous dinner they prepared--Barbara liked a gas range and Gina liked electric so they had side-by-side ranges and cooked together.  I still hold very fond memories of Gino since his untimely death in an automobile accident more than 20 years ago.   Owner Norman deLeuze and family have contined to grow and make fine ZD wines for the pleasure of their many happy clients.  If you don't know these wines, don't delay in getting to do so.

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CHAMISAL VINEYARDS: "Our historic Chamisal property, the first vineyard planted in the Edna Valley (1973), has long been producing wines of a distinctive character – bold, complex and intriguing.  It now contains 80 acres planted to 5 varieties and 25 clonal selections. The nearby Pacific ocean creates a long temperate growing season for exceptional hang time, which combines with the calcareous, clay-rich soil to produce fruit with exceptional intensity and complex flavors. With the ideal climate of the region and the exceptional clonal selection planted on our vineyard, our winemaking philosophy is to simply reflect the natural characteristics of this remarkable estate.  "Califa" is the Modoc Indian term for "prettiest one", and that's what these wines are to us. These bottlings are blended from the most opulent, seductive and powerful barrels of the vintage. The Califa wines are the result of stringent tastings and evaluations to ensure that these few bottles truly are the most intense and flavorful wines of the vintage.

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LAKE SONOMA WINERY 2008 Sauvignon Blanc $14: "Few grape varieties are as sensitive to growing conditions as Sauvignon Blanc. Depending upon where it is grown in California, Sauvignon Blanc character can range from opulent and fruity to lean and herbal. Dry Creek Valley in Sonoma County is the one vineyard region in California in which Sauvignon Blanc develops the perfect balance of fruit, herbaceousness, structure and balance. The newly released 2008 Lake Sonoma Winery Dry Creek Valley Sauvignon Blanc showcases classic Dry Creek Valley character in a fresh, pure style sure to please Sauvignon Blanc fans and casual wine drinkers alike.  ¶  Only 500 acres in Dry Creek Valley – less than six percent of the region’s total vineyard acreage – are devoted to Sauvignon Blanc, a remarkably small figure when one considers the extraordinary character the grape achieves here. The reason for that character is simple: ideal growing conditions. Situated 25 miles from the Pacific Ocean, Dry Creek Valley enjoys sunny and very warm – but not hot – days and cool nights during the critical later months of the growing season. In addition, Dry Creek Valley’s gravelly soils help concentrate varietal character, but not too much. The result is Sauvignon Blanc that isn’t too lush or too lean or too fruity or too herbal, but a just right combination of all four. Lake Sonoma Winery takes a minimalist winemaking approach with Sauvignon Blanc – gentle pressing, cold fermentation and storage in stainless steel, and no malolactic fermentation – to achieve the purest possible expression of Dry Creek Valley character.  ¶  Forward aromas of lemon zest, lime, kiwi and newly mown hay in the 2008 Lake Sonoma Sauvignon Blanc are accented by subtle notes of herb and juniper. Vibrant fresh lemon, lime and herb flavors lead to a deliciously long, crisp finish. Generous in flavor yet racy on the palate, it is a wine equally appealing on its own or with a variety of cuisines. Established in 1977, Lake Sonoma Winery follows a “best of the best” philosophy in producing wines that display classic Sonoma County character."

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KING ESTATE has introduced ACROBAT, a new line of wines from the Oregon winery that addresses the current economic problems.   Marketing Manager Sasha Kadey reports that consumers are shopping wisely, eating out less and watching their dollars more carefully. "ACROBAT is designed from the ground up to give consumers what they demand more than ever--nice quality at an exceptional price, " Kadey explains.  ACROBAT 2008 Pinot Gris ($12) is made mostly of grapes from the King 'Domaine' vineyard.  It is made in a dry style, but has slightly more residual sugar, higher acidity and lower alcohol than the KING ESTATE Signature Pinot Gris.  ACROBAT represents the least expensive Pinot Gris that KING ESTATE has ever brought to market.  ACROBAT 2008 Pinot Noir ($20) represents the same guiding principles--to deliver nice quality at an exceptional price, and to introduce even more wine drinkers to the power and grace of Oregon Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir. 

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KENWOOD VINEYARDS DEBUTS NEW YULUPA LABEL: Kenwood Vineyards has a new label for its restaurant-only Yulupa Series, showcased by the 2008 Kenwood Yulupa Chardonnay and 2007 Kenwood Yulupa Cabernet Sauvignon.  The new label, highlighted by its Kenwood identity, achieves its own distinctive image through label shape, paper stock, embossing and gold highlights.  Kenwood established Yulupa (early 1990s)  to provide restaurants with easy-drinking, palate-pleasing premium wines for by-the-glass sales.  Their popularity is reflected in sales, which exceeds 100,000 cases per year.  "The YULUPA Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon showcase the smoothness and drinkability that make it a restaurant favorite. The 2008 Kenwood Yulupa Chardonnay marries fresh red apple, white nectarine and citrus character with a hint of vanilla complexity. Generous yet polished, it finishes with delicate crispness that invites second glasses. The 2007 Kenwood Yulupa Cabernet Sauvignon displays forward black currant and blackberry aromas, accented by a subtle note of cedar smoke. Black currant and blackberry also highlight the round, medium-bodied flavors, together with dark chocolate and Kalamata olive nuances. The Kenwood Yulupa 2008 Chardonnay and  Kenwood 2007 Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon are available nationally exclusively to restaurants that decide the pricing.

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KORBEL CHAMPAGNE CELLARS Has Released KORBEL'S First Organic California BRUT CHAMPAGNE ($16): Korbel, demonstrating commitment to sustainable winemaking practices, introduced its first Brut Champagne made entirely with organically grown grapes.   Korbel Winery has incorporated sustainability across its vineyards and winemaking process for decades, from land conservation to recycling and reclaiming materials used at the winery.   In 2007, Korbel received its organic processor certification from the California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) – the extensive certification process required to produce an organic product – which enabled Korbel to start crafting the new Korbel Brut.  While it has been under development for a few years, it is finally ready for consumers to enjoy beginning in October 2009.  ¶  “We’re excited about our first organic Brut,” said Gary Heck, owner and president of Korbel Champagne Cellars. “It gives our consumers yet another sparkling choice when celebrating with America’s best selling premium champagne.”  ¶  The grapes were produced according to the USDA organic certification requirements--grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers.  Like all Korbel California champagnes, it is made by the traditional méthode champenoise technique, where secondary fermentation in the bottle results in perfect pinpoint bubbles.   ¶   In 2008, U.S. organic sales were up 17%, reaching $24.6 billion and the organic trade association (OTA) projects growth of approximately 18% overall each year on average for organic food products through 2010.  ¶   “We found that organic practices yield fruit with new and exciting flavors.  It has been an exciting new development for Korbel,"said Heck.  ¶  The new Korbel Brut will be in limited distribution.  It is a crisp, delicate and bright champagne, with well integrated aromas and flavors of apple, pear and white peaches.  The finish is medium dry, with a slight savory note at the end." Established in 1882, Korbel Champagne Cellars produces the United States’ most popular méthode champenoise champagne Owned and managed by the Heck family since 1954, Korbel currently makes eight champagnes and a limited amount of still wine. In a separate facility, Korbel also produces one of the country’s most respected brandies. 

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FIVE RIVERS: "Throughout literature, in both ancient and modern times, there have been five basic elements that give life to the planet – Air, Fire, Earth, Wind and Time.  Our wines take their name from these five elements and are inspired by the goddesses that represent them.  The mystical goddess of Five Rivers Wines is a symbol of hope and inspiration as she tells her story through every bottle. 

Five Rivers Wines, by redwinebuzz.com: "FIVE RIVERS WINERY has been making wine since the 1979 vintage, when it sourced fruit from the Bien Nacido Hames Valley Vineyards. The name refers to the five rivers flowing through the Central Coast: the San Benito, Salinas, Santa Maria, Santa Ynez and Sisquoc Rivers. These rivers are at the heart of the major wine growing areas of the Central Coast.  Focused on producing wines from all of the Central Coast, the winery itself and its estate vineyards are located in Paso Robles – the source of its cabernet sauvignon.  The label is one of two Central Coast wine brands owned by Louisville, Kentucky – based Brown-Forman, a 137 year old company employing nearly 4000 people worldwide and distributing over 35 brands of wines and spirits – including 10 California wine brands.  ¶  Much of the branding of the label, with emphasis on whimsy and the mystical, clearly appeals to the nurturing, feminine wine consumer.  The personification of a spiritual force, “The Goddess”, who in many incarnations (“Earth”: Pinot noir, “Air”: Cabernet sauvignon, “Fire”: Merlot and “Water”: Chardonnay), inspires and guides the attuned winemaker certainly evoke softer, less technical notions of wine.   Even the five rivers themselves are attributed spiritual forces: The Rivers of Truth, Time, Memory, Romance and Ceremony are mentioned, but remain vague and not clearly linked to specific rivers, their geography or history.  ¶  This doesn't necessarily make Five Rivers a 'chick wine'.  Even those who think Five Rivers has sleek packaging, may take interest in the fact that the wines are sourced from 100% organic sources.  The 600-acre Five Rivers Ranch just north of Paso Robles is certified organic.  Planted initially in 2001, to cabernet sauvignon (160 acres), the vineyard was expanded in 2002 with 80 more acres of cabernet sauvignon, 140 acres of merlot, 60 acres of syrah and an additional 20 acres of other, unspecified, specialty varieties. The first harvest from this ranch was in 2003. The pursuit of 'being green' is realized in striving for energy efficiency at the winery facility and avoiding pesticides, and herbicides."

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SIDURI WINES is named for the mythological Babylonian goddess of wine who is on the label.  SIDURI owners Dianna and Adam Lee told me, "Siduri began 15 years ago in our native Texas.  It was a dream shared by two wine geeks (us!) who wanted only to move to California to make killer Pinot Noir from the finest vineyards we could find. Today that dream is a reality. We worked several years at small, family owned wineries, using our time to learn everything about growing grapes and making wine.   In 2004 Siduri celebrated its 10-year anniversary.  We can hardly believe it, but between two wine labels (Siduri and sister label Novy Family Wines) and three beautiful children, we are beyond blessed and beyond busy!  With our small but tireless crew we produce over 25 different Pinot Noir wines each year, representing the largest Pinot Noir focus of any California winery.  Our vineyards stretch from Santa Barbara northward to Oregon’s Willamette Valley.  We have been fortunate enough to establish relationships with top tier growers/vineyards, including Pisoni, Van der Kamp and Clos Pepe.  All of our Pinot Noir is produced unfiltered and unfined to maximize the expression of very diverse sites.  Our Siduri wines are unique in the breadth and depth of our single varietal focus.  For us, the beauty of making our own wines is the total freedom to do it our way, without compromise.  Although it's necessary to adapt to new circumstances with each vintage, we've found that our principles hold true year after year." 

*SIDURI 2008 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir $30: "The 2008 vintage had its share of challenges. This was especially true in the Russian River Valley where a spring frost hit many vineyards and led to uneven ripening and dismally low crop yields. To produce outstanding 2008 Russian River Pinots we had to be extremely selective in which grapes made the cut for the single-vineyard wines, and also carefully meld together different lots to build a superb Russian River blend. This proved to be some work, but after much trial and error (doing all that tasting can be rough) we settled on a blend that is 45% Keefer Ranch, 19% Lewis, 16% Sapphire Hill, 10% Amber Ridge, 6% Parsons’, and 4% Ewald Vineyard Pinot Noir. This wine is also a blend of many different clones, including Dijon Selections 114, 115, 667, and 777 along with Pommard, Wadenswil, and Clone 23. The hope, of course, is that this combination of components produces a wine that is greater than the sum of its parts.  We feel very confident that the 2008 Siduri Russian River Valley Pinot Noir is superior to what we believed was a fantastic 2007 blend. The wine simply shows a bit more of everything, with typical Russian River flavors of cola and spice, along with great richness of cherry and raspberry fruits, and a mouth filling, velvet texture. This wine is definitely ready to go right now, and should make superb drinking over the holiday season, but it should improve as well for two or more years." Cases: 1800

*SIDURI 2007 Amber Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir $45: "In our opinion, no other region benefited as much from the outstanding 2007 vintage as the Russian River Valley. Certainly 2007 was great throughout California, but it is specifically in the Russian River Valley where the vintage truly shines. As is usually the case, the Amber Ridge Vineyard was one of our earliest ripening vineyards. We picked clones 667 and 777 on September 1st (we’ve never picked in August) while the 115 clone was picked on September 6. Yields were down significantly from 2006 with almost 25% less fruit. We completely destemmed the 115 and 777 fruit as the stems seemed still green to us. But we chose to retain half of the stems in the 667 clone fermentation. In addition to this, we used three different yeasts in the fermentation of these clones in hopes of adding an additional layer of complexity. Ultimately, we selected 15 barrels out of 21 total and blended those to create the final wine. For those of you into the numbers, the final wine is comprised of 53% 667 clone, 27% 115 clone, and 20% 777 clone. It was aged in 2/3 new French oak and was not racked until just prior to bottling. It was bottled without fining or filtration.  The 2007 Siduri Amber Ridge Pinot Noir exhibits an enviable pureness of flavor. Rich, dark fruits such as plum, currant, and wild berries combine with hints of cola and sassafras in the mid-palate. The wine has a beautiful texture and lush mouth-feel but turns a bit more tannic on the finish, leading us to believe that while it is drinkable now it will age well for at least the next three years."  368 Cases

*SIDURI 2007 Sonatera Vineyard Pinot Noir $45: "The Sonatera Vineyard has established itself as one of the best Pinot Noir vineyards on the Sonoma Coast. What does it take for a vineyard to achieve legendary status? Consistency, distinctness, and the ability to produce great wines in difficult vintages are the hallmarks of legends.  To clarify, 2007 was not a difficult vintage. It was near perfect. Sonatera produced the most balanced and powerful fruit yet. This amazing fruit translated into a wine that winemaker’s dream of making. Not just because the fruit was not challenging to work with, but because the wine is amazing to drink.  Upon opening, the 2007 displays aromas of exotic herbs, stem inclusion, earth and menthol. As the wine opens up layers of black cherry, tobacco and anise are exposed. The tannins are perfect, slightly more than silky provide the grip that gives the wine structure and a long finish. The finish is polished off by the refreshing swipe of vibrant acidity. This wine will not doubt improve with some cellaring, but it may be hard to resist popping open bottles sooner rather than later."  700 Cases

About NOVY CELLARS: "Our wine enterprise is a family affair.  Over the years, some family members have come to help us with harvest.  We wanted to get them more involved.  During the 1998 harvest we were offered a small amount of top quality syrah grapes that led to the founding of NOVY CELLARS.  All Novy Cellars wines are made by Dianna and Adam Lee, with help from the Novy family, at Siduri’s winery.  Our goal at Novy is also to produce the finest wine possible.  Novy Cellars is owned by Dianna and Adam Lee and Dianna’s family (her parents, Adolph and Rose Marie Novy, and her brothers and sisters-in-law, David and Angela, Bryan and Kathy, and Steven and Marie Novy).  Tracing the family history back to Czechoslovakia, the Novy family takes pride in their Czech heritage and lives in the largely Czech community of Ennis, Texas.  Novy is also a Czech word meaning 'new.'  It is in this spirit of combining family, history, and a spirit of freshness, that we offer you NOVY Cellars.

*NOVY CELLARS 2008 Russian River Valley Viognier $25: "We love aromatic wines! There is nothing more wonderful than sticking your nose in a glass of newly poured wine and immediately being seduced by a flurry of enticing, incredible scents.  It is no wonder, then, that we love Viognier. Quite frankly, we love Viognier.  There is something so beguiling about the nose, the crisp acidity, and the pure fruit that it is difficult for us to refuse a glass (or two), especially when the weather warms up.  We capture that lively spirit of the grape in our Viognier by picking fairly ripe fruit (but not over ripe), by fermenting the juice entirely in stainless steel, and by eschewing malolactic fermentation. All of these techniques seem to help preserve the wonderful fruit while retaining the crispness that keeps the wine fresh.  The 2008 Novy Viognier was picked on September 27 and immediately pressed to bins to settle for 24 hours, racked to two different tanks and fermented using a combination of yeasts.  At dryness the wine was racked to stainless steel barrels where it was kept until bottling in May.
With crisp pear and peach aromas, wonderfully forward and sweet tasting fruit, and a long, crisp finish, this is the perfect wine to serve at the beginning of a meal--or during it."                *NOVY CELLARS 2006 Russian River Valley Syrah $30: "2006 produced some of the finest Novy Syrahs ever.  The vintage was cool enough to retain good levels of natural acidity in grapes and yet warm enough to fully ripen syrah.  One concern mentioned about 2006 is that botrytis (a type of rot) created problems.  Fortunately, syrah is quite resistant to rot, so grapes were able to hang long enough to gain superb levels of flavor and concentration.  This Novy Syrah blends grapes from three different vineyards: 37% Sapphire Hill, 33% Parsons, and 30% Amber Ridge--all are located between Fulton and Windsor on the west side of Highway 101.  The blend consists of twenty-seven barrels with only 3 barrels being new. This allows the wine’s natural character to shine thru without the intrusion of too much oak. The 2006 Novy Russian River Valley Syrah is smooth, rich, and concentrated.  It shows layers of blackberry, juicy cherry, and plum flavors.  Underlying it all is a backbone of minerals and anise with hints of tar and earth.  This wine is plush enough to drink now (especially with some airing) but will certainly improve with 3 to 5 years in the cellar. Without doubt this is the finest Russian River Syrah we have thus far produced."                                       *NOVY CELLARS 2008 Blanc de Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon $25: "And now Dianna and Adam have a new wine.  The Pinot Noir specialists, who produce a stunning number of single vineyard and appellation Pinot Noir under their acclaimed SIDURI label, have crafted a new Pinot Noir that pales by comparison – but only with regard to color.  They are the first California winery to make a non-sparkling white Pinot Noir, which they have released under their NOVY Family Wines label.  With a limited 325 cases produced, the 2008 Novy Blanc de Pinot Noir sells for $24/bottle and is available through the couple’s small 'warehouse winery' in Santa Rosa, CA and at select restaurants and high-end wine shops nationally. When asked why, Dianna replied “We toured Champagne, France more than 15 years ago for our first wedding anniversary.  We visited KRUG, where we tasted a still, white Pinot Noir that was resting  in oak before going through the second fermentation. . . and we could taste the amazing quality of the grape.  Ever since then, we’ve wanted to make a still white Pinot Noir.”  The Lees source the Pinot Noir from Oregon’s Willamette Valley.  “We use Oregon grapes because they have better acidity and lower sugars,” explains Adam. “The flavors are brighter at lower alcohol levels and the color whiter, which you can’t get easily from California’s typically riper fruit.”
So, what does this unique wine taste like? “It’s remarkably good,” notes Adam. “It possesses some of the mid palate weight and richness of Chardonnay but with exceptional acidity. The nose, however, is a bit more exotic with hints of orange and cherry fruits. Quite frankly, it smells more like Marsanne or Rousanne but, combined with the weight and fruit flavors, it ultimately is its own uniquely wonderful wine.”                                                                                                                                                                                                                                About Siduri and Novy
SIDURI produces the most extensive offering of single vineyard Pinot Noirs of any California winery.  Founded in 1994 by husband and wife winemakers Dianna and Adam 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; 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 tour from 10am to 3pm by appointment.   
Siduri Wines 980-C Airway Court, Santa Rosa, CA   ph: 707-578-3882 www.siduri.com, www.novyfamilywines.com    

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VALLEY OF THE MOON 2007 SANGIOVESE AND ZINFANDEL $16 Now Available: "The world of wine production is a world of decisions: where to source grapes, when to harvest, what fermentation techniques, whether to age in oak barrels, how long and what oak, and the many details required for a quality wine.  At Valley of the Moon Winery, production decisions are made based on the grape; the right decisions enable the wine from that grape to achieve classic character and style.   Valley of the Moon Sonoma County 2007 Sangiovese and Valley of the Moon 2007 Sonoma County Zinfandel – each distinctively delicious – show the merits of this approach.  ¶  The decisions begin in the vineyards.  Every grape variety excels in a particular combination of climate and soils, and sourcing grapes from the best locations is critical.  Sangiovese develops characteristic red cherry fruit and bright acidity in locations with extremely warm – almost, but not quite hot – days and cool nights.  Valley of the Moon draws the majority of its sangiovese grapes from Alexander Valley, the warmest appellation in Sonoma County, with much of the rest coming from the slightly cooler Dry Creek Valley.  In contrast, Zinfandel develops exceptional berry character in locations with very warm days, very cool nights and well-drained, gravelly soils.  Valley of the Moon’s zinfandel comes predominantly from the heart of Sonoma Valley, with the reminder from Dry Creek Valley, where grapes develop spicy nuances and rich fruit.  Every vineyard is harvested when the crop reaches optimal maturity and balance.  ¶  Sangiovese and Zinfandel crushing and fermentation are similar, but barrel aging and final blending are different to suit the individual personality of each.  Oak can overwhelm Sangiovese’s medium-bodied character, so our Sangiovese ages a moderate 16 months exclusively in seasoned French oak barrels to keep oak subtle.  To enhance texture and structure, small amounts of Merlot, Barbera and Syrah are added to the Sangiovese just prior to bottling.  Zinfandel--a ripe, dramatic fruit--can handle more oak, so Valley of the Moon ages Zin in subtle French and more assertive American oak for 18 months, and then blends in a tiny amount of Petite Sirah for additional structure.  ¶  The 2007 Valley of the Moon Sangiovese ($16) displays fresh raspberry and red cherry aromas and flavors accented by hints of sage and cinnamon. The palate keeps modest, well-integrated tannins in the background and leads to a long, vibrant, balanced finish.   ¶  Ripe, opulent blackberry and spice aromas in the 2007 Valley of the Moon Zinfandel ($16) evolve to reveal a sweet vanilla nuance. The rich flavors combine ripe blackberry preserve, dark chocolate and a hint of baking spice.  Big and luscious, this deeply fruited Zinfandel stays silky smooth through the delicate, graceful finish.   ¶  Valley of the Moon Winery welcomes visitors daily to its historic cellar in the Sonoma Valley. In addition to Sangiovese and Zinfandel, the winery produces Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Rosato di Sangiovese and Cuvée de la Luna, a proprietary Bordeaux-inspired blend."

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ARTICLES

ROCKPILE GRAPE GROWERS ASSOCIATION, comprised of eight growers in the appellation, has published its first brochure. “The free brochure lists wineries, emphasizes the rich history and unique characteristics that make Rockpile so special,” said President Bob Gloeckner.   The pamphlet can be downloaded from the website, http://www.rockpileappellation.com.   Located at the northwest corner of Dry Creek Valley, the Rockpile AVA encompasses nearly 15,000 acres, of which less than 160 are planted to vines—all red varieties, predominantly zinfandel, cabernet, merlot, petite sirah and syrah.  This makes Rockpile one of the smallest AVAs in terms of acreage planted.   There are no wineries actually situated in the area, however there are about a dozen making appellation specific wines.  A combination of an elevation requirement, extreme terrain and unique climatic conditions distinguish it from neighboring appellations.
High Elevation and Shallow Soils
“All AVA vineyards must be at least 800 feet in elevation to be included,” explained Gloeckner, who farms 24 acres of vines on his 3,000-acre ranch. “The red oxidized soils contribute to wines that exhibit complex tannins and fruit forward flavors,” he continued.  The steep slope drained much of the topsoil to the valley floor millennia ago, and the remaining topsoil is generally loam to clay loam and only 12-24 inches deep in the best viticultural locations. “The rocky, extremely shallow soils, high elevation and ripping winds lead to well-drained, but stressed mountain vineyards producing light tonnage, small clusters and very small berries with intense high quality fruit flavors. The full bodied wines are not for the faint of heart,” said Gloeckner.  “They have deep, dark color, rich concentrated fruit and complex layered tannins.”
Windy and Lack of Fog
“One of the most important characteristics of Rockpile is the wind,” said Gloeckner.  Because of the altitude, Rockpile receives the full force of the coastal breezes that sweep over the neighboring valleys.  It is not only the velocity but also the constancy of the onshore flow that commonly feeds the area with sustained gusts of 10-15 miles per hour. Winds stress the vines by drying out the little remaining water retention, ensuring a lack of rot in the fruit and limiting the need for herbicides or pesticides.  “We use very little spray in our vineyards,” he stated.   Another defining feature of the area is the lack of fog.  Although the Pacific Ocean is less than 16 miles to the west, the presence of Lake Sonoma limits the maritime influence.  More than 200 feet deep with 2,500 surface acres, this large body of water creates an inversion layer, sucking the fog down to the surface, further decreasing the moisture available to the vines."  
Multiple Exposures and Moderate Temperatures
The Rockpile ridgeline runs northwest toward the Pacific Ocean, giving the vineyards a variety of exposures, predominantly southwest and northeast.  The southwestern slopes have the benefit of full sun, whereas the northeastern exposures result in a more indirect angle in the afternoon.  Average daily highs are lower than adjacent appellations, while the average lows are higher.  Less temperature fluctuation allows for long steady growth. Mild highs and lows are a factor in the uniformity of ripening that is unique to Rockpile, especially as it relates to zinfandel, which can dehydrate or ripen unevenly in extreme temperatures.  The average rainfall is 50-73 inches."
Colorful History Enhances Allure
Climbing up from the northern border of Dry Creek Valley, the dramatic Pritchards Peaks loom in the distance, setting the stage for the rich history of the remote, mountainous region.  The name derives from a Pomo Indian village at the base of Rockpile Peak more than 200 years ago.  In 1867, a controversial Sonoma County Sheriff, Tennessee Carter Bishop founded Rockpile Ranch.  Sheriff Bishop brought sheep to the region and first planted wine grapes in the AVA as early as 1872.  Some years later, S.P. Hallengren, a Swedish immigrant, started a family legacy when he planted vineyards.  Hallengren’s great-great grandsons, Chris and Thom Mauritson, now farm approximately 60 acres in the AVA, and great-great-great grandson, Clay Mauritson, runs the family winery specializing in wine from Rockpile grapes.   It was not until the early 1990s, that the first acres of modern-era grapevines were planted by Rod and Cathy Park.  The Mauritsons soon followed suit, discovering that Rockpile held great potential for ultra premium mountain fruit.  Other wineries producing Rockpile wines include Branham Wines, Carole Shelton, JC Cellars, Paradise Ridge Winery, Sbragia Family Vineyards, Seghesio Family Vineyards, St. Francis, Stryker Sonoma Winery and Valdez Winery. The brochure is available at their tasting rooms. For more information visit the website at http://www.rockpileappellation.com.  

© 2009 Sarah Jane English
Sarah Jane: sarahjaneenglish@sbcglobal.net
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