Simple Hedonisms

Archive for the ‘Winery’ Category

How do you know when you like a wine?  “It should have a wow factor … it should scream at you,” says John Saemann, vintner at Clouds Rest Winery in Sonoma County.  Clouds Rest has been hand-producing Pinot Noir from a small Sonoma Coast vineyard since 2002.  These are collector’s wines, priced outside my budget at around $100 a bottle. Good news: a new addition to the Clouds Rest Pinot lineup is available, and at a much lower price point. It’s Femme Fatale, a younger release from the same vineyard, priced at $45 ($39 with case discount). K&L Wine passes along their discount, bringing it down to $39 for a single bottle purchase – outright affordable for a Pinot Noir in this class.

2008 Femme Fatale

I got the wow factor when I tasted the 2008 Clouds Rest Femme Fatale recently … rich cherry red, aromas of ripe stone fruit, flavors of blackberry, plum, pepper, light smoky tannins and hint of rosemary … rolling into a soft, mouth-filling viscosity. My attention shifted to follow the flavor explosion and structure of this wine.  And I’m not alone. Beth Arnold wrote of Clouds Rest Pinot Noir in Huffington Post, “Their Pinots retail for at least $100 a bottle. But, my God, I was almost in tears they were so good.”  And she lives in Paris, so you can imagine the wines she has access to on a regular basis.  “Pinot is a wine for me that brings together so many varietal characteristics into one glass,” John told me, with a heavenward roll of his eyes. Wow factor is more than the look, feel and taste of the wine … it is a quality that transports and totally engages you — like a great movie or a conversation with a good friend.

Seamann says Clouds Rest wanted to give more people access to their Pinot Noir, but without compromising the label.  Femme Fatale is the answer; grapes come from the same vines and terroir Clouds Rest is known for, and the wine-making process is the same, except for bottle aging.  Femme Fatale is released earlier (younger), saving the winery on storage cost. How much? Up to 3 years of bottle aging for the collectors wines. Savings are also passed along through simpler packaging. Femme Fatale’s lighter weight bottle is less costly to ship. Paper labels save cost compared to gilt silk-screened labels on the heavy Burgundian bottles used for collectors’ wines.

Narrow rows above the clouds at Clouds Rest -- Photo: Scott Schuette

What goes into creating the “wow factor” in a wine?

A few things: winemaking skill and style, choice of barrels, choice of grape stock planted, farming style – and terroir. Think of terroir as the vineyard version of “location, location, location.” In this respect, Clouds Rest, on it’s perch above Petaluma California, is very unique.

I walked the vineyard with Scott Schuette, Clouds Rest General Manager and unofficial photographer. Scott tells me the vines are planted at 1250 feet, on an ancient volcanic knoll that was never before cultivated. It had been impossible to farm because of steep terrain and the volcanic rocks strewn over the landscape. To create the vineyard, Seamann ripped out rocks – some quite large – down to a 6-foot depth. Huge piles of extracted rocks dot the property today.  Rows are planted just 3 feet apart, the only known 36”x36” density in California — and possibly anywhere. On less than 2 acres, there are 10,000 vines – producing volume equivalent to about 10 acres of vineyard. Crowding plants this way would normally invite mildew and fungus. But because Clouds Rest is situated in the Petaluma wind gap, there is constant movement of marine air between the Sonoma coast and San Pablo Bay. Rows are deliberately angled to capture maximum sun and air movement on the hill.

Volcanic rocks extracted

The Clouds Rest philosophy is to orchestrate what the vineyard gives them. Having a rockstar winemaker helps too: Anthony Austin who studied under Andre Tchelistcheff, a legendary winemaker of Napa and Sonoma Valley. A Healdsburg (Sonoma county) California native and University of California Davis graduate in enology, Austin directed the first crush at Firestone Vineyards in 1976. He went on to become an award-winning winemaker of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the Santa Barbara area, and returned to make wine in Sonoma in 2001.

Irrigation lines and a huge water storage tank are visible on our walk, and yet no water was used during this wet weather year. These deliberately austere conditions – rocky, windy, crowded, dry — are influenced by the French “intensive” method. Intensive farming forces the vines to compete and struggle, resulting in small fruit of dense and complex flavor.

Dense clustering

Pinot Noir is a notoriously difficult grape to cultivate. It is thin-skinned, prone to rot, viruses, diseases, and vulnerable to over-crowding.  Tchelistcheff has said, “God made Cabernet Sauvignon whereas the devil made Pinot Noir.” There is a reason Pinot Noir is higher priced: the grape is difficult to grow and takes a great deal of viticultural skill and hands‐on processing to result in a good bottle. Against these odds, the wow factor is alive and well in Femme Fatale.  And Austin believes the harsh conditions at Clouds Rest force the grapes to develop thicker skins; thereby retaining more flavor and essence.

What gives wine the “wow factor” for you?

At the end of the day, the wow factor is about what you like. Wine preference is unique to each person, so what appeals to you may be different than for others. What gives a wine the wow factor for you? Where does the aroma and taste transport you to? What do you think goes into creating the wow factor in a wine? Please comment below – Simple Hedonisms would love to hear about your experiences!

Where can you find Femme Fatale?

Fem Fatale, as well as Clouds Rest Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, are available at Roadhouse Winery Tasting Room in Healdsburg, and Bounty Hunter in Napa. Check the Clouds Rest website for online purchase and for a list of restaurants pouring Clouds Rest wines. And as mentioned, K&L Wines is carrying 2008 Femme Fatale.

Clouds Rest will be pouring at Family Winemakers of California, Aug 22-23 at Fort Mason Center in San Francisco.

Clouds Rest will be a featured in the “Grand Reserve” tent at Taste of Sonoma: Wine Country Weekend during Labor Day holiday. They are also pouring at the Sept 3^rd Winemakers Lunch and at other venues throughout the event.

I have been a fan of C. Donatiello since I discovered them some 18 months ago, both for their wines, and the gorgeous property.
For those who may not yet be familiar with C. Donatiello or its location, Chris Donatiello, in partnership with Bill Hambrecht, purchased the facilities from Belvedere in 2006, and have morphed it into a world class facility and producer of stunning Russian River Valley Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

C. Donatiello’s winemaker is Webster Marquez, also referred to as Web. An affable winemaker,  Web  is focused, committed, and always chasing making his best vintage yet, he comes to C. Donatiello from famous Pinot producer Williams Selyem. (He also has his own small label, Anthill Farms.)

In addition to their winery being a pleasure to visit, renowned for casual yet elegant service, each Sunday from late June through October 3rd they feature live music, with acts from all over the U.S. at no charge. It’s one of my Sunday’ faves, I almost hate to share to keep it smaller, but somethings are too good to keep to your self.

I was long overdue for a full tasting review; and was delighted for an invitation, as well as be one of the first for their new wine and cheese pairing which for $20, is one of the most underpriced, amazing Hedonistic pairings going on in Russian River. More on this in another post, but take my word for it, call for an appointment to schedule one of these.

Review

I have a special interest in this release, having just recently toured Floodgate Vineyard with vineyard manager Warren Burton, and new wine producer Cartograph Wines.

Region/AVA: Block 15, Floodgate Vineyard, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County

Color: Lighter cranberry color, slightly opaque. (A thankful break from the ridiculously dark Pinot’s being produced today by many.)

Aroma: Cherry, Cranberry, with a pleasant touch of Earthiness

In The Mouth: Elegant. Despite the youth of this release, it’s a pleasure in the mouth, with velvet texture, wonderful balance and mouthfeel. Flavors of cherry and red fruit, with a nice finish, and  lingering acidity.

Price: $49 Retail

Wine Geek Info:

• Harvest Date – Sept 4, 2008
• Barrel Program – 10 months French Oak, 35% new
• Bottled – July 22, 2009
• 400 cases produced

Highly Recommend.

Summer in Wine Country continues to pick up, with a wide array of fun events to chose from this weekend. Contributing Writer Katherine Parker already wrote this week including the Eighth Street Winery Open House (and ticket contest) about whats going in Sonoma proper (also know as “the island’ by locals), so I can focus on the North Sonoma areas and the Wine Road.

Windsor Oaks – Nature Walks & Wine – 3 Days!

Friday August 6th – Sunday August 8th

Wine Tasting and Picnicking: 11:00 am to 5:00 pm daily.

Windsor Oak’s vineyard and winery team are ready for more summer fun!  They are only open to the public 18 days each year, and these are the last 3 before harvest preparations begin.

Trail levels for all guests! Scale the rugged summit or stroll casually through vineyards with a glass of wine in hand, or do nothing but relax by our winery pond.  Hikes begin as early as 8:30 am. Come early to beat the heat if you want to cover some ground.  Hiking snacks and beverages will be available for sale. Click Here for Hiking Details

Wine Club Members may sign up for a “rare” 4-wheel-drive truck tour with Douglas, through our 350 acres Forever Wild Preserve. After your outdoor adventure, sit back and relax as you sip our award-winning artisan wines! Tasting fee is $10 per person, refundable with 2 bottle purchase. Wine Club members and their guests are FREE!  Wine tasting hours are from 11:00 to 5:00. Enjoy new wine-by-the-glass or bottle options for a perfect lunch! Picnics are also welcome! They’ll have the tables, umbrellas and Riedel glasses waiting for you at our picnic site that overlooks the winery pond.  Choose from our list of our gourmet lunches, or bring goodies from home.  Please contact Jil to reserve a table or order a lunch! Please place orders 24 hours prior to arrival! Click Here for Picnic Lunch Options

RSVP: Jil@windsoroaks.com – wine@windsoroaks.com – 707-433-3810

Friday Night – Napa  Cheers St Helena

(Ok, I know its not Sonoma, but its a great event)

Cheers St Helena is a fun event May to October, the 1st Friday of every month on Main Street in St. Helena. Head there from 6-9pm for a kicked-up Social as they toast friendship and wine in the heart of the Napa Valley! Over 100 of Napa Valley’s Top Wineries will be pouring! Attendance is free, only $35 to taste wines from participating wineries.

Eastside Bunch Summer Wine Experience

Eastside Bunch Wineries of Russian River present the  2010 Summer Wine Experience, Saturday, August 7 11am- 4pm

Explore the exceptional family-owned wineries on the eastside of the Russian River in Healdsburg.  Enjoy a fantastic day of special wine tastings, food pairings, and day only event specials. $20 per person, includes a logo tasting glass.

Participating Wineries: Acorn Winery, Christie Vineyards, Christopher Creek Winery, Deux Amis Winery, Merriam Vineyards, Mietz Cellars,  Mutt Lynch Winery

Kendall Jackson Farm Stand – Saturday August 7th

Visit the Kendall Jackson Wine Center and Farm Stand - culinary gardens that are home to hundreds of fruit, vegetable and herb varietals from around the globe. It’s the source of fresh produce for our own culinary team and many exclusive restaurants in the Bay Area.

• Purchase Heirloom Vegetables from the Gardens
• Chef’s Cooking Demonstrations
• Garden Seminars with Master Gardeners
• Wine Tasting and Education

Bring your shopping list and your palate to the Wine Center on the first Saturday of each month May through October.

3rd Annual – Petaluma Music Festival – Saturday August 7th

Benefit for Music Education Programs in All Petaluma Area Schools

An intimate, relaxed, and upbeat celebration: The 3^rd Annual Petaluma Music Festival on Saturday, August 7^th, 2010, at the Sonoma-Marin Fairgrounds in Petaluma with performances by Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, ALO, Poor Man’s Whiskey, Steve Lucky & The Rhumba Bums, Sol Horizon, Zydeco Flames, the Peter Welker Sextet featuring Jeff Oster, Hillside Fire, and The Artifacts.

This year’s festival will also feature:

• The fine beers of the Lagunitas Brewing Company, and an extensive selection of award-winning wines for tasting
• A unique silent auction and raffle featuring celebrity autographed guitars
• A shaded VIP seating section with complimentary hors d’oeuvres, wine and beer (where you’ll find Simple Hedonisms covering)
• A variety of specialty food, craft and local business vendors

The large grassy area and park-like setting of the festival grounds are perfect for blankets and low-profile lawn chairs, and the two performance stages guarantee the music never ends.

Because funding for the arts in California is problematic, there is never enough for school music programs.  Festival attendees will help ensure that our children will continue to enjoy the positive influence of music in their lives.

Tickets: $25 General Admission, $75 VIP Premium (shaded reserved seating with complimentary wine, beer, and light appetizers), children 12 and under free with paying adult.  Tickets are available for purchase online at www.petalumamusicfestival.org.  Gates open and music begins at 11:00 AM, wine tasting from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, festival ends at 8:00 PM.  Festival location is the Sonoma-Marin Fairgrounds, 175 Fairgrounds Drive, Petaluma, CA 94952.  For more information about the Petaluma Music Festival please visit their website.

Rodney Strong Concert Series – Saturday August 7th, 5 p.m.

This Saturday the Rodney Strong Concert Series continues, and with a handful of tickets remaining for the  Dave Koz & Jonathan Butler – Together Again Tour
Featuring Shelia E.

Enjoy Amazing wines, breathtaking views and concerts with contemporary artists – there’s no better way to enjoy a Sonoma County summer than at Rodney Strong’s annual Summer Concert Series. Be  surrounded by acres of beautiful vineyards, guests enjoy top performers while picnicking at the winery’s intimate concert venue, The Green.

Doors: 4 p.m./ Show Time: 5 p.m. Tickets VIP: $75 / General Admission: $50: Tickets are here.

Live Music – C. Donatiello Winery.  Sunday 1-4 p.m.

I almost want to not share this one, as its one of my favorite Sunday events to sneak away to, enjoy their great wines, music and beautiful grounds. C. Donatiello offers free live music every Sunday, with a great list of artists. Grab wine by the glass or bottle, buy local cheeses and snacks, and sit at a table or bring a blanket and enjoy the sights and sounds. This Sunday is Chris O’Brien, who has made quite a name for himself in Boston’s competitive music scene. Enjoy!

Enjoy a GREAT Sonoma (Or Wine Country) Weekend, no matter what you do – cheers!

As contributing editor Katherine Parker wrote earlier this week in her article on  Wine Goings-on in and around town of Sonoma August 7-8th, Simple Hedonisms has teamed up with the ten artisanal wineries of the Eighth Street Enclave to offer two different drawings for free tickets.

This one-day event will feature both current and new releases as well as library offerings,  barrel tastings, and food pairings. Tickets  include all food and wine plus a souvenir wine glass.  Even if you don’t win, for $30 its a heck of a value for a day out – try and have a quality date with food and wine for less than that!

1. Trivia Contest

Enter to Win a pair of tickets ($6o value) by responding in comments below to these three simple questions, which you can find by clicking on the wineries on from the main web page for Eighth Street Wineries.

1. Whats the website price for the Ty Caton 2008 The Ridge George’s Malbec?
2. What wine release from Tin Barn just won Double Gold medals at the 2010 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition 2010?
3. Name either of the two two less common white wine Rhone releases from Parmalee Hill, named after Daughters. (White Rhone wines rock, branch out!)

Submissions will not be published until after the contest winner is picked so that people can’t see each others answers. All information is secure and never shared.

A drawing at 1pm Friday August 6th will be held.

2. Second Chance to Win: Drawing from Simple Hedonisms Email Subscribers

One drawing at random for a ticket will be awarded to validated email subscribers. Not an email subsriber? Register in the top right; your email is secure, never shared per our privacy policy. You will receive a brief one sentence email summary when new blog posts come out – a great way to stay in touch with events, news, wine reviews, and tips.

This drawing will also be at 1pm this Friday.

Enjoy and Remember:

Winners and Attendees: enjoy the event and remember the four mantras of Simple Hedonisms for Wine Events:

1. Drink/taste responsibly: Ten wineries pouring 3-4 wines adds up to a lot. Consider paying that unemployed summer teen a few dollars to drive you around!
2. Dump/Spit: If you are serious about wine tasting to experience and compare wines; consider learning to use a spit cup, as industry people do, or dump regularly wine you don’t wish to consume. If you had four 1 oz tastes at two wineries, that’s already two full glasses. Its scientifically proven that your sensory analysis is  impaired; you have gone from tasting to drinking. (Which if following rule 1 is fine, have fun.)
3. Its a Business, Not a Charity: These are small wineries who stay in business by selling their product, not large corporations. Think $30 covers their costs for an event like this? Not even close. Try a wine you like, purchase a bottle to take home. Many of these wines will only be available at the winery anyway.
4. Bring a Cooler: In summer months, load up a cooler in the car with a few beverages and a place to store your purchases, even at a event like this where all wineries are close. Heat is like kryptonite to wine.

Sonoma Valley and surrounds are characterized by family-owned wineries large and small. Here are a few weekend events offering a chance to taste artisan and estate wines of some of Sonoma’s family vintners. You’ll find the winemakers on hand to answer your questions too. (Check Simple Hedonisms for tips on how to plan for a day of wine-tasting.)

8^th Street Wineries Open House

August 7 – 11:00am-4:00pm. On Saturday August 7 you can taste wines from 10 artisan wineries matched with top-notch food pairings, converse with the winemakers, even meet the winery dogs – all in one warehouse complex in Sonoma. Over the past year, Sonoma’s 8^th Street Wineries collective has grown from 8 to 10 wineries, representing at least 15 different varietals – most of them Sonoma-grown. The wineries are independently owned, most wines are limited production, and many of them are unavailable to taste – other than a at few exclusive restaurants. This bi-annual open house is a chance to experience hard-to-find wines and the unique personality of each winery warehouse. You’ll find the winemaking philosophy of each producer reflected in their workspace.

Chef John McReynolds

Doors open at 11:00am when you pick up your “Passport” and enjoy some tasting at renowned MacRostie Winery.  After visiting MacRostie, cross the street to visit 9 more wineries. Get your Passport stamped at each winery, and submit it for the wine raffle when you leave. Three names will be selected to receive 3 half-case selections from the 8^th Street Wineries.

Rosso Pizzeria will bring their wood-fired pizza oven for pairings at  Tin Barn and Kamen Estate. Sage Fine Foods of nearby Cornerstone Sonoma, and John McReynolds — chef and olive oil meister at new 8^thStreet winery Stone Edge Farms — are among the other purveyors. Each warehouse sets up their own food station, so expect some yummy surprises.

Eighth Street Wineries is an informal collective comprised of [winery/winemaker]:

• Anaba Wines /Jennifer Marion
• Enkidu Wines / Phil Staehl
• Kamen Estate Wines / Mark Herold, Katy Wilson
• MacRostie Winery and Vineyards / Steve MacRostie
• Parmelee-Hill Wines and Vineyards / Steve Hill
• Stone Edge Farms / Jeff Baker
• Talisman Wines / Scott Rich
• Three Sticks Winery / DonVan Staaveren
• Tin Barn Vineyards / Michael Lancaster
• Ty Caton Vineyards / Ty Caton

Open Warehouses at 8th Street Wineries

Many awards and accolades are attributed to this collective of wineries. For instance, Tin Barn was awarded 5 medals at this years’ San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, including a Double Gold for their 2007 Zinfandel from Russian River Valley. In recent news, new member Kamen Estate was cited in a New York Times article on California Syrah.

Current releases, new releases, library wines and barrel tastings are offered. The price of $30 per person ($20 for wine club members of any 8^th Street winery) includes tastings, pairings, and a souvenir wine glass. Parking is free and once parked, you can walk from winery to winery. Each winery will also have special discounts running this day. The most recent open house in February drew over 700 guests. I was there and can’t wait to return. The quality of the wines, enhanced by foods and conversations with the winemaking families make this a memorable experience. Come early for best selection and savory food pairings. Purchase advance tickets here.

Tip: Check back with Simple Hedonisms on Tuesday August 3rd for a contest to win free tickets!

Muscardini Cellars 5^th Annual Barrel Tasting

August 7th and 8th, 12:00-5:00pm. This year’s Barrel Tasting will be held at the Muscardini Estate ~ Monte Terra, where guests can enjoy an afternoon in the courtyard, by the koi pond and under the oaks. Tickets are a steal at $20 – including a tour of the Estate Sangiovese vineyard, live music, delectable food and wine pairings, and special wine discounts. 2009 futures from the barrel as well as current releases will be tasted. Buy tickets here.

GunBun Summer Film Festival

August 7 at 7:00pm. Saturday is Movie Night at Sonoma’s Gundlach Bundschu Estate Winery. This evening features the 1996 film Swingers. Gun Bun’s annual night under the stars features a high-energy local band at 7pm, followed by the movie at dusk. Bring a picnic and a blanket and enjoy an evening under the stars. Wines available for purchase. $10/pp advance tickets to film; $15/pp tickets at door. Buy tickets here.

Screening of Smokestack Lightening, a Day in the Life of Barbecue with Lolis Eric Eliez

Lolis Eric Eliez and Sheana Davis

August 8^th, 6:00-10:00pm. Sonoma’s own Epicurean Connection hosts an evening of food, wine, dancing to live music that is sure to be PRIMAL! Lolis Eric Elie, a New Orleans based writer and filmmaker and recognized expert on New Orleans food and culture, is the author of Smokestack Lightening: Adventures in the Heart of Barbecue Country and co-producer of the documentary based upon the book. Elie most recently joined the staff of the HBO series Treme. He also produced and wrote the PBS documentary Faubourg Treme.

Memphis Minnies, The Epicurean Connection & Wild Thyme Catering and Events will cook a Barbecue dinner. Highway 12 Winery and Vineyards & Spann Vineyards will pour their wines, and beer will be available from Moonlight Brewing Company & Uncommon Brewers. Local group The Hellhounds will play for dinner and dancing. The event will be held at Wild Thyme. Cost is $45 per person, and includes screening, dinner and dancing. Tickets are available at The Epicurean Connection, Wild Thyme & Readers’ Books in Sonoma. For more information, call 707-935-7960 or sheana@vom.com. Proceeds from this event benefit Southern Foodways Alliance.

I have been trying to spend a bit more time in the Willamette Valley region of Oregon, given my regular travel to the Portland area. I was fortunate enough to spend a half day touring again last month as part of a Pre WBC (Wine Bloggers Conference) Tour, before driving up to Walla Walla. Lynette Shaw of Soléna, organized an entire afternoon for 15  wine bloggers. The highlight of the day was the incredible hospitality we received by the Soléna team, as well as fabulous food pairing and lunch. with their Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris.

About Solena Estates

Soléna Estates is owned by the husband and wife team of Laurent Montalieu and Danielle Andrus Montalieu. Laurent brings a French heritage, Bordeaux, not Burgundy, interestingly enough. Laurent took his first steps in the vineyard in Medoc owned by his great grandfather, Joseph Montalieu. His interest in viticulture led him to the Institute of Oenology of Bordeaux, where he studied viticulture and oenology. (Growing wine grapes and making wine.) After graduating in 1987 he worked for Chateau La Tour Blanche near Sauternes, and Domaine Mumm in California’s Napa Valley before moving to Oregon. After seven years at Bridgeview Vineyards in Cave Junction, Laurent joined WillaKenzie Estate in 1995 as partner and winemaker.

In May of 2000 Laurent and Danielle purchased an 80 acre estate as their wedding gift to each other, and with an interesting twist, registered with vineyard nurseries for six different clones of Pinot Noir grafts that guests could by as wedding gifts. (Hmmm maybe marrying again has some benefits.)

In May 2002, they launched Soléna by releasing their first bottling and, shortly thereafter, opening a tasting room in Carlton.

In 2009, they opened a new tasting room, located on their estate property in Yamhill,  now home to the new Soléna and Grand Cru Estates winery.

Review

The Soléna 2009 Pinot Gris is very interesting, and a standout amongst the many fine Pinot Gris releases in Willamette Valley. I opened two different Pinot Gris’ as the time of tasting, the second being from another from a Willamette winery I respect, and the differences were remarkable.

At the time I did the review; the 2009 was about to be released, and specs weren’t published, so I wrote to Lynette with questions. I though I recalled they used no oak or malolactic fermentation (ML) but the texture, density, mouth feel, made me scratch my head and question if (neutral) oak or ML were used during vinification.

Lynette advised neither was used, nor was I the first to be confused. As the illustrious Wine Spectator aptly described: 

Silky, with an almond edge to the apricot and apple flavors, lingering gently.

This balance is achieved by the fruit, that  is sourced  from several vineyards: Stone Ridge in the Chehalem Mountains, ElvenGlade in the Yamhill-Carlton District and Del Rio from the Rogue Valley. The variations are purposefully chosen and blended to offer flavor and structure. Grapes of higher acidity from cooler climate, blended with riper fruit from warm climates, and little manipulation, provide the complexity and differentiation.

Region/AVA: The grapes for this release of Pinot Gris are selected by design from multiple Oregon vineyards, thus no AVA designation.

Color: Pale straw color

Wine Country events abound during the summer, and as many know, I love to cover these, and thus attend as many as I can. One of my favorite events is the annual Catalan Festival at Gloria Ferrer. Gloria Ferrer is one of my favorite wineries in Carneros; stunning views, great sparkling wines, and Gloria Ferrer always does events with flair.

It was for good reason that Wine Spectator, Travel to California Wine Country, said “Gloria Ferrer reliably produces some of California best sparkling wines, from the fruit-forward blanc de noirs to the richly structured Carneros Cuvée. On a warm day, step out onto the terrace of the visitors center as you sip your bubbly or one of the winery’s Pinot Noirs or Chardonnays…”

For 24 years, the Ferrer family has been sharing the rich Spanish heritage of food, wine and music, and for 18 years sharing it with the Bay area community with this amazing event.

Guests experience authentic Catalan and Spanish dishes from many of the Bay Area’s best restaurants. Aromas of paella and other delicacies fill the air, while classical Spanish guitar and colorful Flamenco dancers set the stage with lively performances throughout the weekend. Authentic Spanish pottery and traditional foods are also for sale; guests can  take home their experiences of the Catalan Festival.

Bubbles abound of Gloria Ferrer’s most popular sparklers (and still wines too). Chefs from throughout the region come to showcase their culinary expertise and interact with event participants through daily paella and cooking demonstrations.

Schedule of Events

The following is a schedule of activities for 2010 event.
• 11:15 am – 11:40 am: Paella cooking demonstration by Jose of Castaneda’s marketplace
• 11:45am – 12:00pm: “Gegants de Mataro Traditional Catalan” (weather permitting)
• 12:15pm – 1:00pm: “Flamenco Fantasy Guitar performance by Eric Symons”
• 1:15pm – 2:15pm: “Dance performance by Sol Flamenco”
• 2:30pm – 3:00pm: “Flavors of Spain cooking demonstration by Steve Rose Vineyards Inn”
• 3:15pm – 3:45pm: Sardana dance (traditional Catalan dance)
• 4:00 close
Click here to purchase tickets for Saturday, July 24th or Sunday July 25th

It’s a busy week for Simple Hedonism, I will be in Portland and Willamette Valley just prior covering two other amazing events; The Oregon Brewers Festival and the International Pinot Noir Celebration (IPNC) , but I am coming back in time to get my paella and bubble fix on Sunday – hope to see you there!

Salud and Cheers!

Where has Simple Hedonisms been?  Not writing this last week for sure!  While I have been very active on Twitter, and a bit (much less than normal) on Facebook, reporting my events this last week, blog writing had been put aside in a dizzying pace of tasting and networking. (er and a few late nights socializing.)

It’s actually been a double whammy few weeks. It’s end of the quarter – and as the head of North American Sales for a software startup just ranked #1 as the Fastest Growing Private Company by the Portland Business Journal, I criss cross the country in a sometimes dizzying pattern, for those brave enough to follow on Facebook. It was also the 2010 Wine Bloggers Conference in Walla Walla, WA.

This was my first time attending the event; although many are under the impression I have lived in Sonoma for years, its only been 13 months, and the blog is a baby of 9 months. ( Heck, only been on Twitter and really used Facebook for the last year. )

300 Wine Bloggers attended this sold out event. Walla Walla isn’t as easy to get to as Napa or Sonoma, and there was concern if people would come, but they did; demonstrating  the passion that exists in the special community, I am privileged to be a part of. Are there some hacks, free sample whores, and not so knowledgeable people  – yes, but frankly far far few than I expected. I felt myself humbled by the dedication, work, focus, and intensity of these writers, and will be renewing my efforts after such inspiration.

There were many great lessons learned, and articles are already flooding the blogosphere, some of which I’ll share. Unfortunately I landed at  1pm today, and leave for D.C. at 6 a.m. tomorrow for a 3 day work conference, so the thoughts and energy must stay contained. For right now, here are a few teasers:

• Sip with Me!’s Photos – #WBC10 Photo Highlights

I am blessed with a bigger readership than I may deserve, given the sporadic nature of my posts. Most of the original intent of my writing has somewhat denigrated into pro bono work for the Wine Industry, events, instead of the Wine Education, and Artisan focus I envisioned. Those will be re-engaged over time, but with an 80 hour a week startup at my back, and a Inbox that gets 100+ emails a week with requests to help, it will take time.

Simple Hedonisms will morph a bit in the short term,  though. How?

• To obtain a more regular, even flow of articles, I will be announcing a Contributing editor, who writes well, and shares many similar passions. (Interested in being a contributing editor? Contact me. Its easier than you think, I’ll happily share the brand. )

• I will be doing more wine reviews, and even some scoring. I originally resisted this idea, until I realized how much time I spend taking tasting notes, how many hits my CellarTracker notes were getting. I have a passion for wine ( a near fanatical passion for the 22 Rhone varietals (grapes)), taste and purchase a wide array of bottles, and there seems to be interest in the reviews. Time permitting, I usually try and add some details about the winery and/or the wine itself. I’d love comments back from readers on your thoughts, interest, topics. I taste and judge all wines, and I am thinking of several themes, and educational tracks, but its always great to hear whats of interest.

• I intend to write more educational articles; sometimes technical and wine geeky, sometimes written for the normal American wine consumer, who has just enough of the bug they wish to learn more. ( I have on one wine manipulation near done. )

I’d like to thank the many wonderful, warm, people who shared their thoughts, and themselves with me. You are inspirations, and I look forward to reading more of your writings, as well as adding you to my blog roll.

A big Cheers as well to the many wonderful people of Walla Walla!

This weekend will be abuzz  with the Passport to Dry Creek Valley event. Its a fun event with a bevvy of activity,  46 wineries in picturesque Dry Creek Valley come together once a year to celebrate their wines paired with mouthwatering cuisine. You can take tours, meet the winemakers and mingle with the chefs from Sonoma County’s best restaurants. Experience entertainment ranging from belly dancers, to circus troupes, live music and much more.

I love many of the great wineries in Dry Creek, one of these being Amista Vineyards. Vicky, Mike and the team are always seeking ways to improve the customer experience and enhance their already great hospitality, which they are renowned for. I have enjoyed following them on Facebook, and their recent adventures adding a pizza oven.

I was really pleased to learn of their latest innovation they are launching this weekend, a new ‘Taste of Amista’ – a package of 6 bottles of their wine, using the new 50 ML bottles.

This is an exciting development that I hope more wineries embrace. What a great way for wine club members, remote wine enthusiasts, wine writers and bloggers, be able to sample a wineries portfolio, in a much easier, less expensive format to ship, transport etc.

More technology is involved than most consumers realize. Bottling  is  one of the least fun parts of the wine industry; getting wine into small bottles, with minimal exposure to air (bad), impurities etc took significant  research and innovation.

TastingRoom Inc.  creates these wine samplers using its patent-pending T.A.S.T.E. Technology™ (Total Anaerobic Sample Transfer Environment). Using T.A.S.T.E. Technology, wine is transferred directly from full bottles into small 50 ml bottles in a sealed, zero-oxygen chamber, so that wineries can be assured the wine samples are a true representation of their wine.

I asked Vicky and Mike to share their thoughts, and why they adopted this new bottle format:

“We think it’s one of the coolest innovations to come along in the world of wine in a long time – the next best thing to visiting a tasting room and  try before you buy.  It is especially exciting for a winery like ours – small production of 1800 cases, whose wines you will never find on the wine shop shelves.  There are so many wonderful boutique wineries to experience and here’s a way to do it”.

I completely agree, and am excited to see Amista be an early adopter. Other  wineries who have rolled out this format include Trefethen, Seghesio, and DeLoach.

The applications for this are wide; Tasting Parties, Gifts, Try before you Buy. Amista has a special “Tasting Party Bundle’ concept; one box for each guest replicates the Amista tasting room experience complete with tastins. Take one home as a present for the house sitter from your wine country vacation. (or send us wine bloggers a wider variety of samples in a less expensive method!) Check out their fun video too for the debut: Amista goes Mini

Can’t wait to grab one this Saturday before they are all gone!

Cheers!

Its  been another one of those busy weeks, a whirlwind business tour through Texas, fleeing snow in Dallas, and writing/collaborating on so many wine events and education, in the wee spare hours. This weekly events post is normally due Thursday, will try to get back to that format.

There is no shortage of wineries and venues offering Wine pairings and fun events, especially paired with chocolates. I could write 5 page blog post, but will stick to some select highlights. Check the calendar for full details. (Note each title is a web link to their Facebook event.)

Valentine’s Zinfandel at Longboard Vineyards:

Longboard & Love Go Together like Zin & Chocolate!

I recently re-connected with Longboard for a drop in tasting, and was glad I did! This weekend,  Come achieve liftoff with the first taste of Ballistic Zin! (I tried it, its great!)  To celebrate Valentine’s Day Longboard is  offering scrumptious snacks specially choosen to pair with three of our wines, including our 2008 Zinfandel—a brand new release!

February 11-14, 2010, 11am — 6pm,  $ 10 per person for paired flight, The Tasting Lounge, 5 Fitch Street, Healdsburg. For more info, or to RSVP, call 707-433-3473. Their complete line-up of award-winning wines will be available for tasting.

Mounts Family Winery -  Valentine Wine Lover’s Weekend

I can’t wait to reconnect with one of my fave small wineries in Dry Creek.

Fall in love with Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon from Mounts Family Winery. Indulge with wine & chocolate in a charming & rustic setting atop the hills of our family-owned estate winery in Dry Creek Valley. Delectable chocolate delights will be paired with their wines.

Cost is $5 per person, complimentary for wine club members. Wine lover special discounts and wine & chocolate pairings are sure to make this a Valentine’s Weekend to remember. Open from 11:00 – 5:00 on Saturday & Sunday (February 13^th & 14^th).

Not What Everyone Else Is Doing Valentine’s Weekend at Michel Schlumberger

Leave it to Jim Morris to head down his own path!

Wine and Chocolates, Wine and Aphrodisiacs, Bubbles and Bath, Bacon and Frosting….we have heard it all and we decided to have a bit more fun with the Valentine’s weekend.  Never one to follow the crowd, we are pairing up this weekend with one of the the finest cookietiers in the land, Costeaux Bakery in Healdsburg, who just won the Best Retail Bakery in the United States in Modern Baking Magazine.

With any of their tours and tastings this weekend, can also enjoy amazing cookies paired with their delightful wines.  These tastings will be hosted by everyone’s favorite tasting room people, Samantha, Frank, Lisa, and Julia.

Zin City Valentine’s Weekend at BellaZin City Valentine’s Weekend at Bella

Head on out to the end of West Dry Creek Road next weekend for Bella Vineyards’ “Zin City” Valentine’s celebration. Las Vegas, in all its romantic, kitschy glory comes to the Bella cave!   “Double down” on the 2009 Late Harvest dessert zinfandel paired with dark chocolate cupcakes and, for those who dare to “elope”, they will be offering faux wedding ceremonies officiated by none other than Elvis himself. Walk the cave “casino” and taste other new release zinfandels and syrahs and then check back in with Elvis as he sings one of his classics.

It’s a perfect chance to get “hitched” or “re-hitched” and, for those who book a “wedding,” top hats, rings and veils will be provided.  We’ll all be dressed in Vegas-themed regalia, pink confetti will fly and we’ll serve mini-chocolate cupcakes from Velvet Crumb along with and an exciting lineup of highly anticipated 2008 new-release wines.

It all goes down Saturday and Sunday, February 13^th and 14^th from 11AM to 4:30PM. Tickets are $10 per person and complimentary for wine club members and up to four guests.  “Weddings” can be arranged by calling 707.473.9171.

Graton Ridge Cellars – Sweetheart’s Chocolate, Cheese & Wine Event

Join Graton Ridge for their Annual Valentine’s Day “Sweetheart’s Chocolate, Cheese & Wine” event, Saturday and Sunday, February 13-14, 2010 from 10am to 4:30pm each day – Open House Style! Taste our delicious wines paired with fine chocolate and local artisan cheeses – all complimentary. Featuring the latest release of our A+ Apple Dessert Wine! TREAT YOUR SWEETHEART!

Graton Ridge Cellars, 3561 Gravenstein Hwy. N, Sebastopol, CA

Amista Vineyards Wine Dinner, at A Divine Affair

Vicky and Mike, owners of Amista have  become  friends thanks to social networking (in addition to me being a patron), and who doesn’t like the bubbly personality and great food of Kahleen Nowak, owner of A Divine Affair. Amongst the great wines Amista is pairing, is their new, very limited sparkling Syrah rose, that I raved about during Winter Wineland. This event is sold out, but I can’t help but tempt you with the menu!

• (Bubbles) Amista Sparkling Syrah – Caviar tart ~ reconstructed caviar service. Blue cheese custard, port soaked figs, anise

• Amista 2007 Chardonnay – Loves Greens, Bermuda Triangle goat cheese candied pistachios, pomegranate vinaigrette

• Amista 2004 Syrah – Pan roasted duck breast, truffle creamed potatoes, foie gras melted leeks, Amista Ilusión port demi glace

• Amista Ilusión Port – Perfectly paired chocolate canella mousse

YUM!

Don’t miss A Divine Affairs other Pairing dinners, with wineries from Sonoma, ranging from Anaba, Mounts, and more.

Have a Happy Valentine’s Weekend, I can’t think of a better place, or people, than to spend it with! Cheers!