|
Join The WineKnitter in exploring the world of Wine, Spirits, Food, Travel and much more! |
|
March 1st began “Women’s History Month.” And throughout the month, women worldwide are acknowledged for their achievements and contributions. Over the past few years, I have written articles about Women’s History Month, giving shout-outs to women in the wine and spirits industry. However, I never wait for March 1st to come around; I like to keep the acknowledgments going all year long! At the risk of being repetitive, here is a quote from one of my previous articles. “Taking only one month a year to celebrate women is not acceptable. However, if during the next 31 days we succeed in sharing enough stories, perhaps it will inspire and encourage younger generations that they too can overcome obstacles and aspire to become whoever and whatever they want to be.” Many of these stories also encourage others that it is never too late to change paths, no matter your age or circumstance.  Within the global wine and spirits community, many women have broken barriers and stepped into roles that men once dominated. Female winery owners, winemakers, sommeliers, and wine educators are no longer the “exception,” and female distillers and master blenders are on the rise! The list of accomplished women is lengthy and impressive! Here are just a few examples of women who have helped pave the way for others. Claudia Harris of England was the first female in the world to pass the rigorous Court of Master Sommeliers exam and receive a title in 1984. Madame Clicquot (Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin) became the proprietor of the famous champagne house in 1772, transforming it into an iconic winery, Veuve Clicquot, that earned her the title “Grande Dame of Champagne.” In 1997, Joy Spence of Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum became the first woman in the spirits industry to hold the title of master blender. Heather Nelson is the first woman to found a whisky distillery in Scotland in over 200 years. She opened Toulvaddie Distillery Ltd. in 2015. Susana Balbo became Argentina’s first female oenologist in 1981, undaunted by a male-centric arena. Hanna Weinberger became California’s first female winemaker in Napa Valley in the 1880s. The list is endless, and I’m so thankful for these women, past and present. Here are five more women that deserve a shout-out! Ntsiki Biyela  Photo courtesy of Aslina Wine Ntsiki Biyela is one of South Africa’s exemplary and highly respected winemakers. Ntsiki grew up in Mahlabathini, a rural village in KwaZulu-Natal. A few years after completing high school, she was awarded a scholarship in 1996 to study winemaking at Stellenbosch University. After graduating in 2003 with a degree in Viticulture and Oenology, she began her journey as a winemaker, starting with Stellekaya winery. Ntsiki’s dream and ultimate goal were to create her own wines and make exceptional world-class brands. So, influenced by her grandmother, who was her “guiding light,” Ntsiki took the initiative and established Aslina Wines in 2016, naming it in honor of her grandmother. Her winemaking philosophy is partly drawn on earlier harvest experiences in Tuscany and Bordeaux that reconnected her to her love of nature and the soil where she grew up. In addition to award-winning wines that Ntsiki produces, she sits on the board of directors for the Pinotage Youth Development Academy that provides technical training and personal development for young South Africans in the Cape Winelands, which prepares them to work in the wine and tourism industries. She was voted Woman Winemaker of the Year in 2009, and in 2017 she was listed in the world’s top 10 most “Innovative Women in Food & Drink" by Fortune’s Food & Wine. Ntsiki’s awards are numerous, acknowledging her role in paving the way for others, eliminating barriers, and her positive influence on the image of the South African wine industry.  Aslina Sauvignon Blanc 2021 The grapes for this 100% Sauvignon blanc are sourced from the Stellenbosch region of South Africa and sustainably farmed. Nose and Palate: Aromas of citrus, minerality, and tropical fruit segue onto the palate with excellent texture, depth, and acidity. A hint of citrus zest lingers on a smooth finish. Alcohol: 13.3% SRP: $19.99 Pairing: Enjoy as an aperitif or serve with goat cheese, seafood, light pasta, or risotto. Natalie Christensen  Photo courtesy of Yealands Wines Natalie joined New Zealand’s Yealands Wines team in 2015 and has been this winery’s Chief Winemaker since 2018. She was also named as one of the World’s Most Influential Women In Wine by The DrinksBusiness in 2018! However, this native-born New Zealander’s journey to this impressive point didn’t start with wine; it began with a BA in classical music and a masters in psychology. Realizing she wanted more out of life, at the age of 25, Natalie interned at a winery where it all fell into place for her. She went on to get a degree in Oenology and took part in harvests around the world that eventually brought her back to New Zealand. Restless in between harvests and needing something to do, Natalie applied for a job as a winemaker in Spain, got the job, and experienced a fast immersion into making wine for an Albariño producer. Her tenacity, love of adventure, and passion shine through in her award-winning wines. Natalie says, “There is a strong link between music and wine. Everyone in a room can be listening to a piece of music, and each individual will have a completely different experience. It’s the same with wine. Although a group may share a bottle of wine, their experience will be their own, unique discovery.” Natalie pays it forward and mentors up-and-coming women in the wine industry as part of the New Zealand Winegrowers Women In Wine mentoring program.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Yealands Estate Single Block S1 Sauvignon Blanc 2020 The vineyard for this 100% Sauvignon Blanc is located in Awatere Valley in the Marlborough Appellation of New Zealand. It is the southernmost, coolest. and driest of Marlborough’s growing regions. Yealands is one of only a handful of wineries worldwide to be certified as carbon neutral and the first-ever to be certified from inception. Nose & Palate: Lovely aromas of ripe stone fruit, citrus, and tropical notes. The palate offers exotic fruit, hints of lime, pineapple, good acidity, and flinty minerality. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $30 Pairing: Enjoy as an aperitif or serve with shellfish, light pasta dishes, grilled chicken, or halibut. Bruna Giacosa  Bruna with her father Bruno Giacosa. Photo courtesy of Bruno Giacosa Winery Bruna is a fourth-generation winemaker who, in 2004, took over one of the most celebrated wineries in Italy, the iconic Bruno Giacosa winery in Piedmont, Italy. It was formerly headed by her world-renowned father, Bruno Giacosa, who sadly passed away in 2018. Bruna began her passage into the world of wine at the age of eight while working alongside her father, and now she is an amazing force and the heart of the winery. She is responsible for the business and winery management and represents the brand throughout the global wine markets. Bruna inherited her father’s passion and enthusiasm for making great wine, always looking for perfection and upholding his philosophy of respecting traditional techniques while embracing the best of modern technology. As a result, she continuously seeks improvement of the wines while maintaining the highest standards in winemaking. And indeed, Bruno Giacosa Barolo and Barbaresco wines remain legendary, with each vineyard site producing unique and eloquent wines. Bruna is making sure that her father’s legacy continues for generations.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Falletto di Bruno Giacosa Barbaresco Asili 2017 DOCG “The 2017 vintage will be a year to remember for the challenges that growers faced from Mother Nature, namely hot weather and very little rain. Surprisingly, the wines produced do not show any notes of over-ripeness commonly found in a hot year. This balance in the wines is attributed to the stark temperature swings with cool summer nights tempering the hot days. The Barbaresco is fruit-driven with good acidity.” Bruno Giacosa Winery. The grapes for this 100% Nebbiolo are sourced from Asili (Village of Barbaresco). The wine is aged 18 months in French oak and six months in bottle. wine photo Nose & Palate: Beautiful aromas of rose petals, red berries, and cherries set the stage for a rich palate of raspberry, minerality, racy acidity, silky tannins, and spice on the finish. It is a beautiful wine with depth and character that will only improve with age. Drink through 2035. Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $285 Pairing: Pair with hearty stews, grilled meat, seared tuna, or aged cheese. Paola Medina Sheldon  Photo courtesy of Bodegas Williams & Humbert Paola is technical director and winemaker for Bodegas Williams & Humbert, located in the heart of Jerez de la Frontera, Spain. She is second-generation of the Medina family who took full ownership of this 130-year-old historic winery in 2013. The winery is noted for its production of sherries and brandies. And, it is no surprise that Paola, who grew up in this environment rich with family heritage and connections, would one day become a winemaker. Her path began with a degree in chemistry from the University of Granada, a degree in oenology from the University of Cadiz, and a master’s degree in viticulture, oenology, and legislation from the Polytechnic University of Madrid. Paola worked in wineries in various capacities before joining Bodegas Williams & Humbert in 2010. She has become part of the “sherry revolution” and is an expert Sherry winemaker, throwing her passion and knowledge into the production. Paola was highlighted by Decanter in 2018 as one of the ten most influential and pioneering winemakers in Spain, pointing out “her innovative production of vintages with biological aging, and the necessity to focus on quality wines and integrate sherry into haute cuisine.” In addition to winemaking, Paola regularly conducts and participates in winemaking courses and seminars within Spain and abroad.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Bodegas Williams & Humbert Dry Sack 15 Year Solera Especial This fortified wine is a blend of 78% Dry Oloroso and 22% Pedro Jimenez Sherries. Aged for a minimum of 15 years, each Sherry style is first aged in its own Solera system and then blended in a third Solera. The Solera system is an aging process that uses new batches of sherry mixed with older ones in a tiered or pyramid structure. The bottom tier is the solera, the eldest sherry, which never entirely leaves the system. The rows above contain the younger sherries (criadera). Once a portion of the wine is extracted from the solera, it is replaced with the same amount of wine from the first criadera and so on, creating a unique complexity and personality in the wine. Nose & Palate: Beautiful notes of fig, toasted nuts, raisins, and vanilla, with a touch of baking spice on the finish. Rich and delicious! Alcohol: 20.5% SRP: $34.99 Pairing: Enjoy as a dessert wine, neat, or in a cocktail. Kristin Vogele  Photo courtesy of LUKE Kristin Vogele is co-founder and owner of LUKE with her husband Thomas, the winemaker. The winery is located in the Wahluke Slope AVA in the Columbia Valley in southeast Washington state and is one of the warmest and driest climates in the state. Kristin is the youngest of five siblings who grew up in Seattle, far from the world of wine. She rode horses before she could walk and spent her childhood riding and showing horses. She met her husband-to-be in high school and received a degree in Economics from the University of Washington. Being a true believer and living proof, I always say that it is never too late to find new passions and roads to follow. And Kristin believes it too. After a 20-year career in the software industry, Kristin decided to focus full-time on the family wine business that she and her husband launched in 2012. Kristin says that it is not just the love of wine that drives her passion but also the meaningful interactions and the stories shared by customers who have found a personal connection to the LUKE brand that inspires her the most. LUKE produces award-winning blends, and it is one of the top five independently owned brands in the Washington category.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss LUKE Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Vineyards for this wine are located in the Wahluke Slope AVA in Columbia Valley. It is a dry and warm area that sits between the Columbia River and Saddle Mountains. Sourced from five distinct vineyards, this wine is a blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot, and 1% Petit Verdot and is aged in French and American Oak. Nose & Palate: Aromas of dark berries, dark cherry, spice, and smoke segue onto the palate with dark chocolate, jammy dark berries, and baking spice. Well-structured tannins with a long finish. Alcohol: 145% SRP: $25 Pairing: Grilled meat, short ribs, hearty stews, grilled portobello, or aged semi-hard cheese. So, in addition to sharing inspiring stories in March, let's keep it going year-round! Celebrate the women that have and still are helping to open doors for us and future generations! Until next time… Cheers! Penny To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] The art of writing letters seems to have vanished since the arrival of more sophisticated and faster ways to communicate. Sadly, emails and texts have replaced the more intimate and expressive pen to paper. When I was very young, writing and receiving letters was exciting. I remember the first box of stationery given to me, the feel of the onion skin paper in my hands, and the thrill that it would capture my thoughts and possibly immortalize me. And I loved the idea that someone might keep my letters and reread them every so often. Yes, at the age of eight, I was a true romantic and a bit dramatic, and I suppose I still am! So, when I received two beautiful bottles of Pinot Noir along with an elegant box of custom stationery from Belle Glos Wines, I was over the moon! The prospect of pouring a glass of opulent wine, writing a letter again, and mailing it to someone made me giddy!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Fifth-generation Napa Valley winemaker Joe Wagner created Belle Glos Wines in 2001, inspired by his grandmother, Lorna Belle Glos Wagner, co-founder of Caymus Vineyards. No stranger to wine, Joe knew by the age of 19 while working alongside his father at Caymus Vineyards that he would carry on his family’s winemaking legacy. Motivated by his grandmother, an avid Pinot Noir lover, Joe decided to focus on vineyard-designated Pinot Noirs from California’s best coastal regions. He has five vineyard sites that produce wines expressing the uniqueness of each vineyard.  Joe Wagner – Photo courtesy of Quilt & Co Recently, Joe and I chatted by way of a virtual meeting, and I asked him to elaborate on his grandmother’s influence in his life. Joe: “As you may know, my grandmother, Lorna Belle Glos Wagner, was a very important person in my life. When I crafted my first wines, naming the brand Belle Glos became the obvious way to pay tribute to her. She was a strong family matriarch, worked hard, was always positive, and loved Pinot Noir. She has always been at the heart of my family, so it only felt right to do something in return to show our appreciation and gratitude towards her. Like the brand itself, Belle Glos Love Letters is an ode to my grandmother and what she embodied; elegance, love, strength, and purity. I am proud that we can still celebrate her legacy eternally with every glass of Belle Glos poured or love letter sent in the mail.” Belle Glos Love Letters is a collaboration with luxury stationer Dempsey & Carroll founded in 1878 in New York City by engraver John Dempsey and businessman George D. Carroll. This limited-edition kit features custom Belle Glos stationery, custom pen, wax, and wax stamper. Hand-engraved steel dies and copper plates made to specification, along with the finest inks and the most luxurious cotton-fiber papers, are used to create this stationery. The stationery kit is a “Limited Edition” available for $90.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Joe spoke about his “aha” moment that gave him the idea for this “Love Letters” collaboration. Joe: “Like so many people over these last two years, I went an extended period without seeing the people that I cared for the most, and so I wanted to do something that would show my appreciation for them. I’ve always shared the highs and lows of my day, special occasions, precious moments, great conversations, etc., over a bottle of wine. It only seemed natural to combine these elements, along with my love of letter writing – so, Belle Glos Love Letters was born.” The wax-covered wine bottles are unusual and very captivating. Joe described why he did this. Joe: “A characteristic of Belle Glos has always been the eye-catching, hand-dipped red wax seal which reflects the relevance and distinctive characteristics of each vineyard-designated wine we produce. We first started using our signature burgundy wax dip with the release of the 2002 vintage of Belle Glos. It was our second vintage and our first release of vineyard-designated Pinot Noirs. The initial thought of using wax was to differentiate our higher-end Vineyard Designate Pinots from our entry-level Pinot (sealed with a cork and foil). So, I went out and got a crockpot, a bunch of different colors of wax, and began to blend colors to find the perfect deep burgundy that characterized the elegance and depth of the Pinot inside. Then came the dip— I started shallow and went deeper with each sample until that deep angled dip captured my eye. I recall consulting my father at the time, who I asked a million questions for advice, and he said, “You know, if you go with wax, you’re gonna be stuck having to use it the rest of your life. It becomes part of the brand.” That said, he agreed the deep dip looked amazing, so I went ahead and committed to it. Little did I know it would become such a strong visual component to the package, and yes, my father was right, a part of the brand. The wax dip has helped our bottle be more recognizable and memorable to the people that love fine wine, and for that, I am happy to work with wax for the rest of my life.” With an impressive wine portfolio, Joe explained why he selected these particular wines to “pair” with the stationery he sent to me.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Joe: “Belle Glos showcases distinctive Pinot Noirs from California’s most noteworthy coastal wine-growing regions. Each Vineyard Designate is crafted to embrace the purest essence of the locale into elegant expressions of coastal California Pinot Noir. While each vineyard location lies near the Pacific Ocean and might seem very similar at first glance, the climatic differences are significant, varying with the amount of fog, wind, sunlight, and soil type at each site. Due to the varying soil types, if I were to plant the same rootstock and clone at every location, the wines would still vary greatly. So, to take advantage of each vineyard’s character, we matched rootstock, clone, trellis, row orientation, and cultural practices that we thought would bring out the best of each site. I wanted you to experience the Clark & Telephone vineyard and Dairyman vineyard to taste the differences between the locations. There are roughly 300 miles between them, and they sit in very different soils and climate conditions.” Belle Glos Clark & Telephone Pinot Noir 2020 The grapes for this wine are sourced from Clark & Telephone Vineyard located in the Santa Maria Valley of Santa Barbara County, 13 miles from the ocean and situated on a west-facing slope. This vineyard experiences weather patterns that pull from west to east to bring cool fog and coastal breezes inland until August, when Santa Ana winds begin. The climate makes for later-ripening and longer-hanging grapes with fruitiness, great acidity, and underlying flavor nuances that contribute additional complexity. It is aged in 100% French oak, 60% new, for up to nine months.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Ripe fruit with cherry, baking spice, and a hint of floral. Palate: Strawberry, raspberry, and a touch of dark fruit that emerges mid-palate. The finish is a long and sumptuous dessert of cherry, blueberry, vanilla, and a pinch of oak. It is beautifully structured with smooth tannins and lively acidity. Alcohol: 14.9% SRP: $54.99 Pairing: Roasted meat, chicken, seared tuna, casseroles, or cheese and charcuterie. Belle Glos Dairyman Pinot Noir 2020 Once a dairy farm and pastureland, Dairyman Vineyard sits in the southern alluvial plains of the Russian River Valley of Sonoma County near the ocean, a region where the cooling fog comes in through the Petaluma Gap in the morning and once again in the evening. Afternoon breezes help to soften the effects of the warm sun. In Dairyman, each vine is trained on a vertical shoot position (VSP) trellis, limiting growth and opening up the typically congested fruit zone. The combination of low-vigor rootstock and alluvial soil stress the vines, while the cool, coastal climate creates a long growing season that brings about small, concentrated, and flavorful berries. It is aged in 100% French oak, 60% new, for up to nine months.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Cherry, cranberry, rose petals, and spice. Palate: Rich, dark berries flavors with raspberry, cherry, cranberry, anise, and a hint of fig. Spice and vanilla linger on a long finish with silky tannins and vibrant acidity. Alcohol: 14.7% SRP: $54.99 Pairing: Venison, lamb, fowl, stews, fatty fish, or risotto. These wines are rich and elegant, and each bottle is “sealed with a kiss.” So pour yourself a glass and compose a love letter to someone special!  Photo credit: Belle Glos Until next time...
Cheers! Penina This article originally appeared in Santé Magazine. To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] Did you know that Spain is ranked as the number one country in the world with the most area of cultivated grape vineyards? And when it comes to wine regions and varieties of wine produced here, there is no shortage of topics to write about. Spain is rich in history where wine has played an important role since before 3000 B.C.  Bodegas Bleda Photo credit: Penny Weiss Today my focus is Jumilla (pronounced who-ME-ah), a small wine region in southeastern Spain approximately 50 miles inland from the Mediterranean Sea. The area is composed of over 22,700 hectares of vineyards that stretch between the provinces of Murcia and Albacete, of which over 40% are located in the town of Jumilla. And there are over 2000 viticulturists here who diligently care for each vine.  I recently had the opportunity to explore this beautiful area with its breathtaking views, history, and delicious cuisine. And at every twist and turn of the road, one can find acres of olive and almond trees, in addition to wine vineyards. Jumilla DOP oversees and regulates the region’s wine producers, growers, wineries, and co-operatives. It is one of the oldest Designations of Origin in Spain, established in 1966. While in Jumilla, I met with many winemakers and tasted numerous styles of the expressive wines of the Monastrell grape variety, a specialty of this region. It was a whirlwind trip that included sunset tastings in vineyards, incredible dining, and visiting over fourteen unique wineries. In the coming months, I will introduce and feature these wineries, a few at a time. But for now, regard this article as an introduction to royalty! Jumilla is considered the birthplace of Monastrell, a hearty and resilient red grape variety (known as Mourvèdre in France). It is this region’s principal grape variety and makes up approximately 80% of the Jumilla DOP vineyard surface. Monastrell is called “Queen of Jumilla” by the winemakers here. Although this title bears no historical or romantic tale, be assured that her reign is supreme, having endured a challenging landscape for centuries. When I asked why this grape was given the title “queen” instead of “king,” the answer was simple.“Grape variety in Spanish is “feminine” – uva or variedad so “queen.” It is easy to see why this grape is considered royalty. Monastrell is a late-ripening grape that thrives in the intense heat of this region. It is a low-yielding thick-skinned, small berry with compact grape clusters. Monastrell has adapted to the hot, arid conditions here, making it a resilient variety with high resistance to drought and most plant diseases, including phylloxera.  Monastrell grape Photo credit: Penny Weiss The landscape consists of broad valleys, plains, and mountain ranges that weave in and out of this region. Jumilla climate is considered Continental even though it is close to the Mediterranean Sea. It experiences over 3000 sunny hours a year, with frequent dry winds and temperatures reaching 104 degrees in the summer. Vineyards range in altitude from 1,049 ft (considered the valley) to 2952 ft. Vines benefit from the high elevation due to cool evenings, which alleviate them from the scorching heat of the day. Rainfall amount tends to be scant, with approximately nine inches of rain annually but can differ depending on the location. And although one might consider this region desert-like, it is not exempt from frost and torrential downpours that might endanger the vines. The soil here has good depth and is comprised mainly of limestone and gravel with occasional chalky soil in some areas. The soil has a high capacity to retain water which is conducive to vine-growing. And, as a result, the majority of Jumilla’s vineyards are dry-farmed (irrigation is not necessary). One winegrower said, “Deep roots of these vines are able to find water during droughts.”  Photo credit: Penny Weiss For generations, sustainable farming has been in practice here, with 70% of the surface area certified in organic viticulture. Jumilla is also home to Europe’s single largest collection of 90-year-old ungrafted bush vines. (Ungrafted means the original roots). Jumilla DOC said, “The character of the wines from Jumilla make them stand out among products from other areas due to what is known as “terruño,” a magical combination of grape variety, soil composition, the orientation and pruning of vines, and the climate.” Monastrell wines are purplish in color and run the gamut from light and lively to bold and complex, with intense flavors that vary depending on where the vines grow. One can expect fruit-driven flavors characterized by heightened aromas, powerful tannins, and medium acidity. Generally speaking, Monastrell wines are quite aromatic with ripe red and dark fruit flavors, balsamic, herbs, and spice. From barrel tasting to bottle pours, from new to old vintages, stainless steel to oak/concrete aging methods, and food pairings, I sampled Monastrell in all its finery.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss In addition to making a 100% Monastrell wine varietal, this grape also blends well with varieties such as Garnacha, Merlot, and Syrah. These red blends are succulent and full-bodied and leave one’s palate singing. And if you are looking for something a little lighter, Monastrell rosés are a winner. They run from dry to fruity with a pleasant floral bouquet, fresh fruit flavors, and crisp acidity. Other grape varieties that are permissible in Jumilla DOP are: Red Cencibel, Garnacha Tintorera, Garnacha, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Petit Verdot White Airen, Macabeo, Pedro Ximénez, Malvasía, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and small grain Moscatel The cuisine of Jumilla is impressive, and the red wines pair well with everything, even desserts! Some of the traditional food I tasted included Manchego cheese, paella, gachamiga, goat, rabbit, and everyone’s favorite, roasted almonds! Many of the local dishes are salt-cured such as tuna and Ibérico ham. The salt is sourced from Valle del Carche, a local mountain salt mine dating back over 2000 years.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss All of the wineries that I visited combine traditional and modern techniques in the vineyard and winery, which I will explore further when I highlight each winery in future articles. However, the common thread among all of the wineries I visited is the apparent pride, enthusiasm, passion, respect, and love for the land that they all have. The expression, “I wear my heart on my sleeve,” comes to mind when I think of everyone I met in Jumilla. When not sipping wine, there is much to discover here. The Volcano of Cancarix is the only volcano in the Iberian peninsula that is not active because its “chimney” was destroyed by erosion. I stood in the crater where bush-trained Monastrell vines grow in the volcanic and very rocky soil. Take a tour of the Jumilla Archeology Museum, or hike the ancient ruins of Tolmo de Minateda, a 3000-year-old city. The Castle of Jumilla was built in 1461 and is worth the hike to take in the breathtaking views below. Enjoy this slideshow! It was indeed an honor to visit the “Queen of Jumilla” and meet all of her protectors! Monastrell is undoubtedly worthy of the title! So be on the lookout for future articles about Jumilla wines and wineries. And in the meantime, treat your palate to a glass of this royal wine, and let me know what you think! Jumilla wines are available throughout the United States and are easy to find.
Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] It was another bumpy ride this past year, with many of us feeling as though we were on an endless roller coaster ride. So as we usher in the New Year, let’s be optimistic and forge ahead by embracing new adventures, tackling our bucket lists, and celebrating one another! Be kind, be gentle, and step into the New Year with grace and dignity! To quote Rumi, “Raise your words, not voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.” I’m kicking off 2022 with six red wine recommendations and food pairings that are sure to please your palate and warm your heart and soul during the long winter months! Volver Tempranillo Single Vineyard 2018 Bodegas Volver was founded in 2004 by fourth generation viticulturist Rafael Cañizares. This 100% Tempranillo wine is sourced from a high-altitude (2000+ ft.) single vineyard called Finca Los Juncares, located in the eastern part of DO La Mancha, Spain. Fermentation takes place in new French oak barrels, and the wine is then aged for 15 months. Nose: Dark fruit, anise, and baking spice. Palate: Juicy blackberry, sour cherry, and plum with notes of mocha, kirsch, and toast lingering on a long finish. Alcohol: 15% SRP: $16 Pairings: Grilled meat, stews, tapas, or roasted lamb.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Riva Leone Barbaresco DOCG 2017 This delicious wine is 100% Nebbiolo, sourced from vineyards in the Piedmont region of Italy. It is aged for a minimum of two years in oak, of which one year is in French and American oak barrels. Nose: Red fruit, cherry, spice, a touch of rose petals, and earth. Palate: Tart black cherry, red plum, pomegranate, berries, spice, and fennel. It is beautifully balanced with soft tannins and a long finish. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $25 Pairings: Roasted meat, fowl, seared tuna, risotto, hearty stews, or aged cheese.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Wilson Winery Three Dog Zin 2019 Founded in 1992, Wilson Winery is located in Dry Creek Valley, Healdsburg, in Sonoma County, CA. This whimsical label features original art from local artist Mylette Lynch. A portion of proceeds from each bottle sold is donated to local animal shelters and non-profit rescues to support adoption services, medical care, and more. The wine is 100% Zinfandel aged for 22 months in French and American oak. Nose: Fresh red berries, spice, and floral. Palate: Lush notes of strawberry, pomegranate, baking spice, and fennel. Nicely balanced acidity and tannins with a long finish of spice and berries lingering on the palate. Alcohol: 15.7% SRP: $32 Pairings: Grilled meat, tuna, hearty stews, or pasta with prosciutto and fontina.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Borsao Tres Pico Garnacha 2019 Bodegas Borsao established the Cooperative of Borja in 1958, which is a group of winegrowers dedicated to preserving the quality and integrity of Garnacha. Located in DO Campo de Borja, Spain, the grapes for this 100% Garnacha were sourced from vineyards in the famous Moncayo mountain. This flagship wine was the first 100% Garnacha wine produced in Spain in 2000. The wine is aged five to six months in new bordelaise barrels of French oak. Nose: Beautiful aromas of floral, red fruit, and a touch of spice. Palate: Dark plum, blackberry, black raspberry, baking spice, and vanilla. It is a well-structured and rich wine with smooth tannins and a long finish. Alcohol: 15% SRP: $19 Pairings: Barbecue, grilled vegetables, rice and pasta-based dishes, cheese, and hearty stews.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Quatro Quarti Nero d’Avola Appassimento Sicilia DOC 2019 This wine is produced by Cantine Ermes, founded in 1998 in the heart of Belice Valley in Sicily. They have an impressive 10,592 hectares of vineyards spread across Sicily. Once harvested, Nero d’Avola grapes are slightly dried (appassimento) in a special room to go through the natural process of dehydration. After fermentation, the wine ages for four months in French oak barrels. Nose: Ripe berries, spice, and a touch of floral. Palate: Lush dark berries, dried fruit, a hint of vanilla, and silky tannins with spice and cocoa lingering on the finish. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $10-$15 Pairings: Pasta, Grilled meat, chicken, cheese, stews, or risotto.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Time Waits For No One Red 2020 Finca Bacara, founded in 2016, is a winery located in Jumilla, in southeast Spain. The vineyards are certified organic, and this wine is 100% Monastrell, a hardy grape capable of withstanding extreme heat and drought. I had the opportunity to taste this wine while visiting Jumilla in November. With the New Year upon us, I find this quote about the wine from Finca Bacara very timely. “How often do you talk about the concept of Time in a conversation? “Life is short and every time is limited.” “We should spend more time together.” “Live the moment to the fullness” … The name of this wine came to us in one of those random conversations. Then we elaborated the idea with more attention to detail and, of course, our time. So enjoy it your way and explore the meaning of time. It's as simple as that. Crafted with care for random conversations.” Nose: Intense ripe fruit, smokey, with a hint of herbs. Palate: Lush red fruit, spice, balsamic notes, with nicely balanced tannins and acidity. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $15 Pairings: Grilled meat, fowl, pasta, paella, or charcuterie and cheese board.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss I wish everyone a healthy, happy, and safe New Year!
Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] When one thinks of wines from the western part of the United States, in all likelihood, California pops up first. However, the Pacific Northwest is also known for its fine wine production from Oregon and Washington. These northerly states benefit from the warm days and cool nights, resulting in ripe fruit and fresh acidity in the wines. Oregon is known for its production of Pinot Noir, and Washington has a reputation for its fine Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Riesling, and Chardonnay. Here are four wines representing both states for your palate to explore.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Mack & Schühl, a Miami-based national importer, recently launched United Ink, a new portfolio of wines from the Pacific Northwest, bringing together two of the most acclaimed winemakers, Joe Dobbes (Oregon wine) and David Forsyth (Washington wine). Mach & Schühl said, “Joe and David’s shared philosophy is to showcase the quality of the Pacific Northwest’s wine regions by creating modern versions of the classic wines of the old world.” Each eye-catching label depicts an animal symbolic of that particular region. United Ink Dry Riesling 2020 This wine is 100% Riesling sourced from a single vineyard in the Rattlesnake Hills sub-appellation of Columbia Valley AVA in Washington. Nose: White stone fruit, honeysuckle, and citrus Palate: Fresh acidity, tropical fruit, melon, and is a touch sweeter than the “dry” on the label. Well-balanced though, and the acidity shines through. Drink as an aperitif or pair with seafood, grilled chicken, and veggies. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $12  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The label for this wine features a Sockeye salmon found in vast quantities in the Columbia River and its tributaries. United Ink Red Blend 2019 The blend for this wine is 60% Merlot, 20% Syrah, and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from multiple single vineyards in Columbia Valley’s AVA Horse Heaven Hills and Wahluke Slope sub-appellations. Nose: Cherry, dark berries, and a hint of floral Palate: Dark and sour cherry, blackberry, raspberry, baking spice, and tantalizing acidity with a spicy finish. Pair with grilled meat, barbecue, Asian cuisine, or seared tuna. Alcohol: 14.1% SRP: $18  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This label features a Cougar native to the Pacific Northwest. United Ink Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 The grapes for this wine are sourced from single vineyards in Columbia Valley’s AVA Horse Heaven Hills and Wahluke Slope sub-appellations, and the wine is 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot. Nose: Floral, plum, baking spice Palate: Fresh fruit, plum, baking spice, a hint of tobacco, and medium tannins. Alcohol: 14.1% SRP: $18 Pair with grilled meat, hearty stews, spicy appetizers, or pizza.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This label depicts an American Bald Eagle, commonly seen all over Oregon and Washington wine country. United Ink Pinot Noir 2019 This wine is 100% Pinot Noir, with grapes sourced from vineyards in Oregon’s renowned Willamette Valley and Dundee Hills wine appellations. Nose: Cherry, spice, floral, and a hint of anise Palate: Ripe fruit, sweet and sour cherries, dark chocolate, and nicely integrated acidity with smooth tannins and a long finish. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $22 Pair with game, swordfish, cheese, and smoked salmon.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This label is of a Black and White Magpie, considered one of the most intelligent birds in the world and found throughout the vineyard regions of Oregon and Washington.
Happy tasting! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] Read my latest article for Santé Magazine about the wines of Croatia. Click the link below. https://santemagazine.com/wines-of-croatia-an-overview/  Yes, we are making a quick stop to the heart of Douro Valley again to revisit Quinta do Crasto and review three delicious wines!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Here is a re-cap of Quinta do Crasto from a previous article. Quinta do Crasto is a fourth-generation, family-run business that has been in the family of Leonor and Jorge Roquette for more than 100 years. It is also one of the oldest winemaking estates in the Douro region of Portugal. The earliest written records mentioning Quinta do Crasto and its wine production date back to 1615. One hundred forty years later, in 1756, the Douro became the first-ever demarcated and regulated wine region in the world. And in 2001, UNESCO sanctioned the Douro region as a World Heritage site. Quinta do Crasto is headquartered in the heart of Douro Valley, in Gouvinhas, a municipality of Sabrosa, and is one of the most picturesque parts of the Douro.  Photo courtesy of Quinta do Crasto With the help of Jorge and Leonor’s sons, Miguel and Tomás, and daughter, Rita, they produce top-quality Douro DOC wines, in addition to port and olive oil.  The Roquette family. Photo is courtesy of Quinta do Crasto Quinta do Crasto has four estates that spread across the sub-regions of the Douro Demarcated Region of northern Portugal. The Douro experiences a hot, continental climate, with each sub-region demonstrating its unique topography, soil, and water resources.  Map courtesy of The Society of Wine Educators Quinta do Crasto is a 335-acre estate of which 185 acres are planted to vines located in the Cima Corgo sub-region. Most of the vineyards are on south-facing slopes that extend from the banks of the Douro River to an altitude of almost 600 meters. The soils are of schist complex types that can absorb and retain heat. This, combined with dry conditions and excellent sun exposure, forces the roots to grow dozens of meters deep in search of water. All of these conditions contribute to the complexity and intensity of the wines produced. Small plots of old vines that total 98 acres are located on terraces with stone retaining walls to protect these older vines, some of which are a hundred years old. They recently expanded their vineyards to the Douro Superior sub-region with a new vineyard of 371 acres. So, let’s taste some wine! Crasto Superior Red 2016 Douro DOC The grapes for this blend are sourced from 15-year-old vines in the Douro Superior sub-region and are a blend of Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, and Souzão. The wine is aged for approximately 12 months in French oak barrels.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The color is royal purple with aromas of ripe berries, a hint of cherry, and baking spice. Dark berries, plum, licorice, spice, and firm tannins abound on the palate. This wine is nicely structured with a long finish. Pair with grilled steak, seared tuna, hearty stews, or a charcuterie board. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $29 Quinta Do Crasto Reserva Old Vines 2016 Douro DOC The estate has 40 hectares of old vines spread throughout 42 vineyard lots. Among them are the famous Vinha da Ponte and Vinha Marie Teresa. Dozens of mixed varieties are planted in these plots. The grapes for this wine are sourced from old vines averaging around 70 years of age, with mixed plantings of 25 to 30 different grape varieties. This wine is aged in French (85%) and American (15%) oak barrels for 18 months.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This is an elegant wine with a dark ruby color. An expressive nose of berries, anise, spice, and earth give way to a layered palate of dark fruit, berries, spice, a hint of minerality, and firm tannins. The finish is long, with notes of dark berries and cocoa lingering. Serve with game, hearty stews and soups, or grilled dense fish. Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $45 Quinta Do Crasto Touriga Nacional 2016 Douro DOC The grapes for this 100% Touriga Nacional are sourced from the best Touriga Nacional plots of Quinta do Crasto estate and only bottled in the best years when the highest levels of quality and excellence are achieved. This wine ages for 18 months in French oak barrels.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Touriga Nacional’s signature bouquet of violets is present in this deep purple-colored wine. Other aromas include fresh berries, spice, and oak that segue onto the palate with notes of dark chocolate and blackberries lingering on a long finish. This wine has excellent structure and smooth tannins. If allowed to age another year or so, it will develop even more complexity. However, it is ready to enjoy now. Serve with hearty cuisine.
Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $78 All of these wines are amazingly fresh with beautifully concentrated flavors. I used my Coravin system on all three bottles and am looking forward to opening them within the next year! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] What happens when three French wine-loving friends decide to produce a unique wine collection? An explosion of flavors in simple but sexy single-serve bottles happens. That’s what!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nicolas Deffrennes, Régis Fanget, and Valérian Déjours, long-time friends, got together, merged their ideas and passion for wine, and created Le Grand Verre. (LGV) (great big glass)  Photo courtesy of LGV Through the wonders of Zoom, I met Nicolas and Régis, along with winery owner Inèz Andrieu of Domaine Caylus and winemaker, Gérald Damidot of Château Val D’Arenc, and enjoyed tasting four of LGV wines. It all began with Nicolas, founder of LGV, whose “eureka moment” came to him when he was a member of a wine club while attending Harvard University. He gained so much knowledge and joy from tasting many different wines that he wanted to give other people the opportunity to experience what he did without opening an entire bottle. So, together with his friends Régis and Valérian, they set out on a mission with the focus of featuring small, independent boutique wineries with an emphasis on quality, organic and sustainable practices, and of course, designing a single-serve bottle for the wine. They toured through France, meeting with many estate owners and winemakers, sampling a lot of wine, and connecting with people. Nicolas said, “We looked for authenticity. The process of choosing winemakers is not just about finding wines that this beautiful little bottle deserves, but it is about the people and connection. It is the authenticity of relationships and products.” Most of the wines crafted for LGV are produced from female-owned estates or female winemakers. The recycled, shatter-proof bottle is double-layered PET that preserves the aromas and flavors. Nick said, “The two layers keep the wine fresh.” Régis added, “The design is elegant but pure and simple. You see the wine, not the bottle.” Each bottle holds 6.3 ounces of wine. LGV Domaine Caylus Rosé Blend 2020 Domaine Caylus is located in the Pays d’ Herault, in the Languedoc-Roussillion region. Inèz Andrieu is a third-generation owner and winemaker of the estate. She converted their 25-acre estate to organic farming in 1999, stressing the importance of preserving the land and lifestyle. The blend for this rosé is 60% Syrah and 40% Grenache from their certified organic vineyards.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This wine has wonderful aromas of floral, red berries, and tropical fruit that carries over to the palate with strawberry, cherry, and cream. It is juicy and a delight to sip. Inèz says, “It is rich and concentrated.” And, I agree! Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $24.99 for a 4-pack LGV Domaine Caylus Chardonnay 2020 This 100% Chardonnay is sourced from Domaine Caylus certified organic vineyards. Inèz said, “This is pure Chardonnay. No oak is used, and it is produced using minimal intervention.”  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The color is golden with a tinge of green. The nose offers floral, melon, and white stone fruit. Lush notes of white fruit, peach, lemon, and apple satisfy the palate. Just lovely! Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $24.99 for a 4-pack LGV Château Val D’Arenc Bandol Rosé 2020 Château Val D’Arenc is located in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region in southeastern France. They have 25 hectares of organic vineyards thanks to the young and innovative winemaker, Gérald Daimidot, who arrived in 2015 and converted the entire estate to organic farming. With 20 years of winemaking experience, Gérald says, “I am a very passionate winemaker. I focus on choosing the best grapes and making food-friendly wines. And this wine is made to pair with gastronomic food.” Gérald takes wine and gastronomy very seriously and recently opened a restaurant!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This rosé is a blend of 80% Mourvédre, 10% Grenache, and 10% Cinsault. The Mourvédre gives the wine its beautiful natural color. Aromas of fresh red fruit, melon, citrus and peach segue onto the palate with berries and spice notes. Gérald says, “This wine has a lot of texture and is spicy with pepper.” It also has a beautiful mouthfeel and a long finish. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $29.99 for a 4-pack LGV Château Peyredon Haut-Médoc Cru Bourgeois 2019 Château Peyredon is located in Haut-Médoc on the Left Bank in Bordeaux. It is owned by Stéphane & Laurence Dupuch. They are committed to organic farming and preservation of the land.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This is a classic Bordeaux blend of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon and 37% Merlot. The grapes were sourced from over 100-year-old vines. The nose offers dark berries, baking spice, and a touch of earth. Juicy notes of dark berries, a hint of strawberry, and vanilla linger on the palate for a long finish. It is a fresh and elegant wine. Régis said, “This is a very fresh wine with succulent dark berries.”
Alcohol: 13% SRP: $29.99 for a 4-pack There are 20 wines in the LGV portfolio representing French regions such as Bordeaux, Provence, and Languedoc. The “trio amis” continue to explore vineyards throughout France and anticipate expanding their portfolio in the coming year. These are delicious wines in easy-to-transport bottles. They are available throughout the US and are sold in 4-packs ranging from $20 to $30. I’m looking forward to tasting more of these impressive wines. Seriously, where else can you enjoy premium French wines without having to open an entire bottle? Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] Read my latest story for Santé Magazine. Click the link below. https://santemagazine.com/the-magic-of-donnafugata/  Until next time... Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected]
It is the dog days of August, and there is no escape from the heat and humidity for some. Hydrating with lots of water is essential, but come “cocktail hour,” one might want to end the day with something more “flavorful.” My pick for this week is three light and refreshing wines from Scheid Family Wines. Scheid Family Wines, founded in 1972, is located in Monterey AVA of California’s central coast. It began as a grape-growing company, selling 100% of its production to other wineries. Today this family-run and owned winery produce and bottle their own wine from estate vineyards that stretch along a 70-mile spread of the Salinas Valley. Their portfolio includes seven brands. From the very beginning, the family was environmentally conscious, which is reflected in their vineyards and winemaking practices. “From our start in 1972, we’ve held firm to the belief that growing the highest quality wine grapes and crafting the best wines possible can only be achieved through taking care of the land and our people. The best wines come from healthy vines.” Scheid Family With 12 certified sustainable estate-grown vineyards in Monterey, the Scheid Family champions low-impact farming methods. This includes composting 100% of the winery’s grape pomace, stems, and seeds in the vineyards and recycling 100% of the winery wastewater. Their state-of-the-art winery is also certified sustainable and powered by 100% renewable wind energy. In addition, Scheid Family Wines is organically farming 1500 acres of their estate vineyards with the objective of establishing 100% organic farming methods in all of their estate vineyards by 2025. Here are three wines representing three brands from their portfolio.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Ryder Estate Pinot Noir Rosé 2020
Pinot Noir grapes are sourced from sustainably farmed vineyards on the central coast. This wine begins with tantalizing aromas of berry, cherry, floral, and a hint of earthiness. The palate is fruit-forward and lush with strawberry, cherry, and a touch of rose petals on the finish. It is crisp and refreshing with bright acidity. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $15 District 7 Chardonnay 2019 The Chardonnay grapes for this wine are sourced from District 7 sustainable estate vineyards in the cooler wine-growing regions of Monterey. 25% of the wine was aged in new French oak for 14 months and 75% in stainless steel tanks. Lovely aromas of citrus, pear, stone fruit, and vanilla segue onto the palate with tropical notes and sweet apples. A nice finish of citrus, vanilla, and cream lingers on the palate. This wine is crisp, balanced, and very refreshing. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $18 Scheid Vineyards Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2020 This 100% Sauvignon Blanc is sourced from five estate vineyards in the Monterey appellation, including Scheid. The wine is aged for four months in stainless steel tanks. Citrus, white stone fruit, and a hint of exotic fruit aromas lead to a palate of fresh fruit that includes subtle herbal notes and a touch of minerality. Crisp acidity and a dab of lemon zest on the finish will certainly please the palate. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $22 Drink these wines as an aperitif or pair with appetizers, seafood, salads, roasted chicken, or light pasta dishes. Enjoy and stay cool! Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] |
Categories
All
|
RSS Feed