tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31292121224216110172024-02-07T06:11:02.758-08:00Central Coast UncorkedUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-78102732905175909452013-06-15T14:11:00.001-07:002013-06-15T14:11:21.499-07:00Refugio Ranch: Rustic Life, Elegant Wines in the Santa Ynez Valley<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpEVIqvzfjwhreeShDZJEikBDN0uZ6PbjJa3bFhHCwKoKg12bfMlLXKKliVTuSS-DIIuQcJwiR5uTtzuOYCGVDDIcCZUbYidCccGQMeXK_m4d6Sj3HjZVFaFz7p70dnSMu8v9GGtJslSo/s1600/DSC_0368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpEVIqvzfjwhreeShDZJEikBDN0uZ6PbjJa3bFhHCwKoKg12bfMlLXKKliVTuSS-DIIuQcJwiR5uTtzuOYCGVDDIcCZUbYidCccGQMeXK_m4d6Sj3HjZVFaFz7p70dnSMu8v9GGtJslSo/s400/DSC_0368.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Refugio Ranch, Santa Ynez Valley</b></td></tr>
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Nestled between the Santa Ynez River and the Santa Ynez Mountains lies <b><a href="http://www.refugioranch.com/home/">Refugio Ranch</a></b> - a four hundred and fifteen acre estate surrounded by some of the most spectacular landscapes in Santa Barbara County Wine Country.<br />
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On a perfectly clear spring morning, Central Coast Uncorked was treated to an amazing vineyard tour and wine tasting hosted by owners Kevin and Niki Gleason. Atop an oak shaded perch overlooking the entire estate and the Santa Ynez Valley, we tasted the full selection of estate wines offered by Refugio Ranch.<br />
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Refugio Ranch Vineyards was <a href="http://www.refugioranch.com/the-ranch/vineyard-map.php"><b>planted</b></a> in 2006 to 26 acres and 9 varietals. Varietals include Malvasia Bianca, Grenache, Petite Sirah, Roussanne, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Sangiovese, Syrah and Viognier. Each wine label features a silhouette of a member of the Gleason family.<br />
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Winemaker <b><a href="http://www.deovletwines.com/">Ryan Deovlet</a> </b>brings his winemaking expertise to Refugio Ranch crafting estate wines from this rustic location in the Santa Ynez Valley. Deovlet is a talented winemaker who carefully oversees every step of the winegrowing and winemaking process with minimal intervention.<br />
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With glass in hand, we joined the Gleasons on their four-wheel drive utility vehicle for an afternoon vineyard tour. During our jaunt through the vineyards and along the Santa Ynez River, we savored the wine and views, including a glass of 2009 Barbareño and 2012 Agua de Dulce de Refugio. The estate is anchored by a live-in barn where the Gleasons can enjoy an afternoon entertaining or relaxing with family and friends.<br />
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The Refugio Ranch tasting room is located at the intersection of Grand Avenue and Highway 154 in Downtown Los Olivos. You can enjoy their selection of wines at the tasting bar or grab a seat outside. Inside, a pair of sliding doors opens into private room with a full-service kitchen for special events. No detail was overlooked in designing the tasting room<br />
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As you will soon discover, Refugio Ranch is emblematic of the enduring rustic lifestyle and emerging wine culture of Santa Barbara County. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcy_f85fVX-iEpEyvd9k8Ca2hhJE80TCynk-6iH4dgP29Vknde4IzZRqFl_ims7c-Iab4a_4-FgxsbDLFni3AP4VrkEmckbBLNNaInIrIYZQounPrc7B36SVGhx2Gw5hdsmcFNfaCPToU/s1600/DSC_0543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcy_f85fVX-iEpEyvd9k8Ca2hhJE80TCynk-6iH4dgP29Vknde4IzZRqFl_ims7c-Iab4a_4-FgxsbDLFni3AP4VrkEmckbBLNNaInIrIYZQounPrc7B36SVGhx2Gw5hdsmcFNfaCPToU/s200/DSC_0543.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<b><a href="http://www.refugioranch.com/home/">Refugio Ranch</a></b><br />
2990 Grand Avenue, Los Olivos <i>(intersection of Highway 154)</i><br />
Phone: (805) 688-5400<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:info@refugioranch.com">info@refugioranch.com</a><br />
Hours: Thursday (11:00 am - 5:00 pm), Friday-Saturday (11:00 am - 6:00 pm) and Sunday-Monday (11:00 am - 5:00 pm)<br />
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RefugioRanch">Refugio Ranch</a><br />
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/RefugioRanch">@RefugioRanch</a><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-80008962336875611582012-08-25T08:15:00.000-07:002012-08-25T08:15:19.721-07:00Discovering "The Fire Within" at Wine & Fire in the Sta. Rita Hills<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Mile Marker 7.28 at Fiddlestix Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills</b></td></tr>
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On a warm August morning, a sold out crowd descended on Fiddlestix Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills for the Wine and Fire Symposium hosted by the <b><a href="http://staritahills.com/">Sta. Rita Hills Winegrowers Alliance</a></b>. "The Fire Within" seminar featured two panels of winemakers dedicated to producing superbly crafted Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines from this highly-acclaimed wine growing and producing region in Santa Barbara County. <br />
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The symposium was moderated by Josh Raynolds of <b><a href="http://www.wineaccess.com/expert/tanzer/newhome.html">Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar</a></b>, who did a fabulous job of highlighting the expressive wines of this region and leading a great discussion and Q&A among the winemakers about their winemaking practices, clonal diversity, the "low alcohol movement," and the advantages of using cork and screwcap enclosures, among other topics.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi07ao8vQAdEWOXljJNUod3jVxGseu4cVt3IUev8Ci7k6nMewMSxc7TRscAytI7G2q9emVUW40czJtAu-blLHvb8JSqws_A8B0M6_m__3vbrlv4xkq_bQ4S6Qwgsi8ZFeHK1JMSO51MQq8/s1600/DSC_0350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi07ao8vQAdEWOXljJNUod3jVxGseu4cVt3IUev8Ci7k6nMewMSxc7TRscAytI7G2q9emVUW40czJtAu-blLHvb8JSqws_A8B0M6_m__3vbrlv4xkq_bQ4S6Qwgsi8ZFeHK1JMSO51MQq8/s400/DSC_0350.JPG" width="475" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>(From L-R) Josh Raynolds, Nikki Nelson, Dan Kessler, Karen Steinwachs, Wes Hagen</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>From (L-R) Frank Ostini, Deborah Hall, Peter Cargasacchi</b></td></tr>
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While the panel debated or opined on different topics, the seminar attendees blindly tasted through the selection of wines, making note of the qualities of each wine and guessing which wine matched the winemaker's bottling. Even the winemakers were asked to describe the qualities of each wine and guess which wine was their own. Despite the heat, all the attendees enjoyed the seminar, tasting and luncheon, as well as the vineyard tour led by Wes Hagen of Clos Pepe. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCgmXi45i95h-eRl2cGoV2bYqRwcud60QVw_WNNb9HbxijvabitHsB4by9W_QDmJxAHzLORY-OcJacjMKeT691vjPPFy3kaaZf8ZEZDtXAvWKl-9RTCm7iJKvnRhS86XRdl1vQXaIzzaA/s1600/DSC_0420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCgmXi45i95h-eRl2cGoV2bYqRwcud60QVw_WNNb9HbxijvabitHsB4by9W_QDmJxAHzLORY-OcJacjMKeT691vjPPFy3kaaZf8ZEZDtXAvWKl-9RTCm7iJKvnRhS86XRdl1vQXaIzzaA/s400/DSC_0420.JPG" width="450" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>(From L-R) Dan Kessler, Nikki Nelson, Jeff Nelson, Brandon Sparks-Gillis</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Wes Hagen leading a discussion about viticulture and the Sta. Rita Hills</b></td></tr>
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The Chardonnay Panel featured the following wines and winemakers:<br />
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<ul>
<li>2010 <a href="http://liquidfarm.com/">Liquid Farm</a>, White Hill - Nikki Nelson</li>
<li>2010 <a href="http://www.seagrapewinecompany.com/about.html">Seagrape Cellars</a>, Zotovich Vineyard - Karen Steinwachs</li>
<li>2010 <a href="http://www.sanfordwinery.com/">Sanford Winery</a>, Rinconada Vineyard Estate - Steve Fennell</li>
<li>2010 <a href="http://www.clospepe.com/">Clos Pepe</a>, Clos Pepe Estate "Homage to Chablis" - Wes Hagen</li>
<li>2010 <a href="http://www.kesslerhaakwine.com/">Kessler-Haak</a> Vineyard Estate - Dan Kessler</li>
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The Pinot Noir Panel featured the following wines and winemakers:<br />
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<ul>
<li>2009 <a href="http://www.kenbrownwines.com/">Ken Brown Wines</a>, Rancho La Vina - Ken Brown</li>
<li>2008 <a href="http://hitchingpost2.com/HPWinery.html">Hitching Post</a>, Fiddlestix Vineyard "Perfect Set" - Frank Ostini</li>
<li>2010 <a href="http://www.cargasacchi.com/">Cargasacchi</a> Vineyard Estate - Peter Cargasacchi</li>
<li>2010 <a href="http://www.siduri.com/">Siduri</a>, Clos Pepe Vineyard - Adam Lee</li>
<li>2010 <a href="http://www.gypsycanyon.com/Welcome.html">Gypsy Canyon</a> Pinot Noir Estate - Deborah Hall</li>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">As the sun began to set in the late afternoon, hundreds of oenophiles gathered at La Purisima Mission in Lompoc for the Grand Tasting event. Wineries and food purveyors lined the walkways in the shaded gardens, while winemakers poured a selection of their award-winning Sta. Rita Hills wines. At this historic site, the pioneer winemakers of the Sta. Rita Hills, such as Richard Sanford and Ken Brown, stood side-by-side with the rising stars of the region, including Dan Kessler (<a href="http://www.kesslerhaakwine.com/">Kessler-Haak Vineyard & Winery</a>), Jeff and Nikki Nelson (<a href="http://liquidfarm.com/">Liquid Farm</a>), Brandon Sparks-Gillis (<a href="http://dragonettecellars.com/">Dragonette Cellars</a>) and Ryan Zotovich (<a href="http://zotovichcellars.com/cm/Home.html">Zotovich Cellars</a>).</span></b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Ken Brown, Ken Brown Wines</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Richard Sanford, Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards</b></td></tr>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">The expressions of the Sta. Rita Hills intensified with every sip of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir or other cool climate varietal wine. The profile of each wine offered a great representation of the salinity, minerality and crispness of Chardonnay; the earthy and vibrant berry expressions of Pinot Noir; and the pepper and spice of cool climate Syrah. The Grand Tasting helped shine the spotlight on nearly 50 wineries and vineyards and dozens of talented winemakers in the Sta. Rita Hills, as well as the importance of the wine industry to the local and regional economy.</span></b><br />
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Congratulations to Executive Director Barbara Satterfield and the entire membership of the <b><a href="http://staritahills.com/">Sta. Rita Hills Winegrowers Alliance</a></b> for hosting the annual celebration of the Sta. Rita Hills! It was a wonderful success and a pleasure to participate in this year's Wine and Fire Symposium and Grand Tasting. See you next year on August 17th for more Wine & Fire!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-3575805764266070342012-07-24T14:49:00.001-07:002012-08-21T20:27:29.647-07:00Kessler-Haak Vineyard and Wines, Sta. Rita Hills<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If life is about the journey, then Dan and Ellen Kessler picked the right road for this chapter in their lives and the path forward looks very promising. The journey has led them to purchasing prime real estate in the <a href="http://staritahills.com/"><b>Sta. Rita Hills</b></a> surrounded by the most acclaimed vineyards in Santa Barbara County and in one of the most picturesque settings anywhere in California.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.kesslerhaakwine.com/">Kessler-Haak Vineyard</a></b> is located on Highway 246 in the heart of the Sta. Rita Hills - the Shangri-La of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. K-H counts Clos Pepe, Hilliard Bruce, Huber and Gypsy Canyon as neighbors. Planted in 2005, the 30-acre vineyard features sandy loam soils planted to seven Pinot Noir clones and three Chardonnay clones.<br />
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Central Coast Uncorked joined <b><a href="http://santabarbarawinetalk.com/sbwt/">Santa Barbara Wine Talk</a></b> (Phil Carpenter) on a perfect summer afternoon for a vineyard tour and tasting with owner/winemaker Dan Kessler. If anyone makes you feel at home and a part of the family, it's Dan and Ellen Kessler. After our vineyard tour, we were greeted in the backyard patio with a selection of cheese, salumi and fruit, as well as Kessler-Haak's estate wines. <br />
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Kessler-Haak Vineyard and Wines sources Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes to local producers including <a href="http://liquidfarm.com/" style="font-weight: bold;">Liquid Farm</a>, <b><a href="http://dragonettecellars.com/">Dragonette Cellars</a></b>, <a href="http://carrwinery.com/" style="font-weight: bold;">Carr Winery</a>,<b> </b>and<b> </b><a href="http://www.samsarawine.com/" style="font-weight: bold;">Samsara</a>, among others. But when you have premium grapes, you might as well make premium wine. K-H is producing an estate Chardonnay, two estate Pinot Noir wines, Rose of Pinot Noir, Syrah from Turner Vineyard, and a dry Riesling from Lafond Vineyard.<br />
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Due to limited production and distribution, Kessler-Haak wines are available at select stores and wine bars in Santa Barbara County and online. With the increasing acclaim of their wines and that of the producers who source their grapes, Kessler-Haak Vineyard and Wines is sure to be a sought-after label from the Sta. Rita Hills. <br />
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<b><a href="http://www.kesslerhaakwine.com/">Kessler-Haak Vineyard and Wines</a></b><br />
1700 Gypsy Canyon Drive, Lompoc<br />
(805) 735-2283<br />
By appointment only, Monday-Saturday<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:info@kesslerhaakwines.com">info@kesslerhaakwines.com</a><br />
Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/KesslerHaak">Kessler-Haak Vineyard & Wines</a><br />
Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/khvines">@KHVines</a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Chardonnay & Pinot Noir Blocks, Kessler-Haak Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Kessler-Haak Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Kessler-Haak Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills</b></td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-13655470082762238142012-07-16T21:59:00.000-07:002012-07-18T21:39:00.573-07:00Fog Crest Vineyard: Russian River Valley's Hidden GemIt's not in the glossy brochures and maps, but Chardonnay and Pinot Noir lovers have reasons to put <b><a href="http://www.fogcrestvineyard.com/">Fog Crest Vineyard</a></b> on the proverbial map as a destination for premier Russian River Valley wines. Fog Crest Vineyard, located in the heart of the Russian River Valley, spans south/east along a sandstone ridge above the Santa Rosa Plain planted to Dijon clones of Chardonnay and heritage clones of Pinot Noir.<br />
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Fog Crest Vineyard is located on Occidental Road, east of Gravenstein Highway (State Route 116) in Sebastopol. A narrow road winds its way from the busy two-lane road through the estate vineyard to the winery and tasting room set on a slopping hilltop with spectacular views of the Russian River Valley.<br />
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James and Rosalind Manoogian purchased their 30-acre property on Occidental Road in 1998 with the intention of producing estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines crafted in the "Old World" style and showcasing the incredible terroir. Under the direction of consulting winemaker David Ramey and winemaker Daniel Moore, the Manoogian's have received widespread acclaim for their <a href="http://www.fogcrestvineyard.com/our-wines/"><b>Laguna West and Estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines</b></a>. These superbly crafted wines are a great representation of Burgundian styles and techniques, yet identifiable as a characteristic and elegant Russian River Valley wine.<br />
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Fog Crest Vineyard is also completing construction of a new tasting room with sweeping vistas of the estate vineyard and the Russian River Valley. Once completed, the tasting room will offer visitors a premier location to enjoy Fog Crest wines. It's all a work in progress; so, the more you buy, the quicker it gets built. <br />
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Be sure to visit Fog Crest Vineyard on your next wine country vacation to Sonoma County's Russian River Valley! These wines are sure to please any palate and compliment your favorite food pairing.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.fogcrestvineyard.com/">Fog Crest Vineyard</a></b><br />
7602 Occidental Road, Sebastopol<br />
(800) 931-2906<br />
Open by appointment only<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:info@fogcrestvineyard.com">info@fogcrestvineyard.com</a><br />
Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/FogCrestVineyard">Fog Crest Vineyard</a><br />
Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/fogcrest">@fogcrest</a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Fog Crest Vineyard Winery Road</b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Fog Crest Vineyard & Winery, Russian River Valley</b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN3cX47i9OzzrFqaS7In7zsUgCejIHu7Leo862tVN5chgw_umj1U3mSHi_o_6-edPsQVd5m7Xxx4EkzZcGPQSlL9XLdLjx1MRU_SloJ-b_JgkjHWOoYpetbFbqdJeGkDCDMQ0k-iSx-24/s1600/DSC_0019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN3cX47i9OzzrFqaS7In7zsUgCejIHu7Leo862tVN5chgw_umj1U3mSHi_o_6-edPsQVd5m7Xxx4EkzZcGPQSlL9XLdLjx1MRU_SloJ-b_JgkjHWOoYpetbFbqdJeGkDCDMQ0k-iSx-24/s400/DSC_0019.JPG" width="475" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Laguna West and Estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir Wines</b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-73947652053332659812012-07-05T08:00:00.001-07:002012-07-05T15:59:08.081-07:00Savor the grapes of Wrath<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><i>and in the eyes of the hungry there is a growing wrath. In the souls of the people <b>t</b>he grapes of wrath are filling and growing heavy, growing heavy for the vintage." (Grapes of Wrath, John Steinbeck)</i></span><br />
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John Steinbeck's iconic novel of the Joad family's migration west to California depicts the plight of poor Americans during the Great Depression and the ensuing economic and social hardship that trapped millions of people throughout the country. It's also an appropriate quote to highlight the plight of wine drinkers from monolithic wines to truly hand-crafted wines that represent the best of the terroir, varietal and vintage.<br />
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On June 3, 2012, the Rhône Rangers provided the backdrop for my wine epiphany and introduction to <b><a href="http://www.wrathwines.com/Home">Wrath Wines</a></b> of Monterey County. The <b><a href="http://centralcoastuncorked.blogspot.com/2012/06/wrap-up-rhone-rangers-los-angeles.html">Rhône Rangers Los Angeles Tasting Event</a></b> featured dozens of wineries from all across California. It was easy to overlook the table near the entrance to the event at the historic Vibiana when there were some many other familiar wineries in the room. However, there was a buzz among some of the trade that a winery with a fierce name and edgy label was pouring some of the best Syrah wines at the event. <br />
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The epiphany occurred after just one sip. If there weren't ABC rules prohibiting more than one ounce from being poured in a glass at one time, I would bogart every bottle of wine until my desire for more is satisfied, at which point you might want to call an ambulance. After experiencing Wrath's Syrah wines, I decided to plan a visit to the winery following my trip to Sonoma County. I could not delay another week or month the opportunity to experience Wrath Wines. <br />
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On a late summer afternoon, I traveled south on River Road and veered right onto Foothill Road to the winery in the Santa Lucia Highlands. Wrath Wines and the <a href="http://www.sipcertified.org/"><b>SIP-certified</b></a> San Saba Vineyard is set on a nook below the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA overlooking the Salinas Valley. For a course refresher (including this wine blogger), the <b><a href="http://www.santaluciahighlands.com/">Santa Lucia Highlands</a></b> is situated along the Santa Lucia Range above the Salinas Valley and across from the Gabilan Range to the east. This cooler climate growing region benefits from its close proximity to the cold waters of Monterey Bay. On the westside of the property sits a late 19th century home moved from Salinas to the vineyard in Soledad. This bare structure, which is the perfect setting for a horror novel or a Halloween party, is the backdrop for Wrath Wines' label (<i>see picture above and below</i>).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The color version of the Wrath Wines label</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San Saba Vineyard</td></tr>
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The formal tasting room is spacious and entertaining with large windows
and doors that afford spectacular views of the estate San Saba
Vineyard. Outside lies a patio that wraps around the tasting room and
overlooks the irrigation pond. If you were looking for a solitary
location to entertain friends and family with superbly crafted wines,
then you found the right place. There isn't much around here, but
within the confines of the property, your desire for solitude is complimented with a glass of great wine and scenic
views of the agricultural epicenter of California's Central Coast.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDq8Ut5Zb7cFwM1uhpiOTeS5HUHZWCPkoJ14q0KV2ULL9Q1Vu9_zdxhMuuzY2_Fzp2yi-7lu5RL3AN51h6X986tKtpRWaJ2V_DLwqcmQm2zKZdyv4OlCB6iycsP7yLhw1Uqj818Ntskic/s1600/DSC_0148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDq8Ut5Zb7cFwM1uhpiOTeS5HUHZWCPkoJ14q0KV2ULL9Q1Vu9_zdxhMuuzY2_Fzp2yi-7lu5RL3AN51h6X986tKtpRWaJ2V_DLwqcmQm2zKZdyv4OlCB6iycsP7yLhw1Uqj818Ntskic/s400/DSC_0148.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wrath Wines Tasting Room</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcKcTJBCcO2LDCAl8VPopvugYcTbD-pXA6q7KgbYgRzj8tzJXMTt0zScnsIXRud5qrqOmfked7niHyF9X9fjG0OqSf_Uw_l5lbzzZh_LMHvj42Ls6E9k-gRgoI3F9AVp-T0ETWPIU4OnI/s1600/DSC_0136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcKcTJBCcO2LDCAl8VPopvugYcTbD-pXA6q7KgbYgRzj8tzJXMTt0zScnsIXRud5qrqOmfked7niHyF9X9fjG0OqSf_Uw_l5lbzzZh_LMHvj42Ls6E9k-gRgoI3F9AVp-T0ETWPIU4OnI/s400/DSC_0136.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wrath Wines Tasting Room</td></tr>
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The daring name of Wrath Wines reveals an attitude, passion and inherent respect for producing authentic wine specific to the terroir. Wrath produces over a dozen clone-specific, estate sourced and/or single-vineyard wines from the Santa Lucia Highlands including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc. The quality and craftsmanship of their wines borders on perfection, at least for my palate. When you drink Wrath Wines, you think of the following words: aromatic, complex, layered, opulent, structured and well-integrated. For the most recent vintage, my favorites include the McIntyre Vineyard Chardonnay, Ex Vite Pinot Noir, Doctor's Vineyard Syrah and Moscato.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wrath's Single Vineyard Pinot Noir & Syrah Wines</td></tr>
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There is no hype about Wrath Wines' growing <a href="http://www.wrathwines.com/News---Acclaim/Acclaim"><b>acclaim</b></a>. There is a new mecca for great wine in California's Central Coast and its called <a href="http://www.wrathwines.com/"><b>Wrath Wines</b></a>. Savor the grapes of <i>Wrath</i>...<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.wrathwines.com/Home">Wrath Wines</a></b><br />
35801 Foothill Road, Soledad<br />
(831) 678-2212<br />
Open Fri-Mon, 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:info@wrathwines.com">info@wrathwines.com</a><br />
Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/wrathwines">Wrath Wines</a><br />
Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/wrathwines">@WrathWines</a><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.wrathwines.com/Visit">Carmel Tasting Room</a></b><br />
Ocean Ave. and Mission St., Carmel (located on ground floor)<br />
Open Mon-Sat, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and Sun 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.<br />
(831) 620-1909Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-84403013593699087732012-06-11T19:16:00.000-07:002012-06-11T19:16:11.231-07:00The Wrap Up: Rhône Rangers Los Angeles Tasting 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On June 3, 2012, the Rhône Rangers welcomed hundreds of Rhône wine enthusiasts to the historic Vibiana for the annual Los Angeles Tasting Event. The nearly sold-out event featured more than 45 wineries pouring over 200 wines from Santa Barbara County, Paso Robles, Monterey County and Washington State.<br />
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The Rhône Rangers Los Angeles Tasting opened to the trade at noon, followed by a VIP lunch with the winemakers and local food truck favorites, Slammin' Sliders, Border Grill and Coolhaus. At 3:30 p.m., volunteers opened the doors to hundreds of Angelenos for the Consumer Tasting.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGh6CgfrTNttWxWImCoiZgqtugNgQk5ts1Bu5ZdZPBHIsipA41uKdFEzpOHz1gQ4MvcVUoSZLmLwX3eQohcWzp4KOMKo46KSbNxyD6Vh8NMQaX3WIAcST9Kfva_p0iZL8uNepHdtJsS2I/s1600/DSC_0942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGh6CgfrTNttWxWImCoiZgqtugNgQk5ts1Bu5ZdZPBHIsipA41uKdFEzpOHz1gQ4MvcVUoSZLmLwX3eQohcWzp4KOMKo46KSbNxyD6Vh8NMQaX3WIAcST9Kfva_p0iZL8uNepHdtJsS2I/s200/DSC_0942.JPG" width="200" /></a> With some many wineries present and not enough time to cover half of them, it was wise to set out with a list in hand of wineries to visit and wines to taste. As of late, I have been enjoying more white Rhône blends and single-varietal wines, so there were ample options at each stop. It's summertime!<br />
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Earlier this spring, <a href="http://www.altacolinawine.com/"><b>Alta Colina</b> </a>released new wines that are destined for stardom including the Marsanne-based 2010 "Claudia Cuvee" and 2009 Mourvedre. <a href="http://anglimwinery.com/anglimwinery.php"><b>Anglim Winery</b></a> was pouring refreshing wines such as the 2010 Viognier (sourced from Bien Nacido Vineyard) and the 2011 Rosé, which was perfect for the warm weather outside. Speaking of refreshing and succulent, Victor and Jennifer Abascal of <a href="http://www.vinesonthemarycrest.com/"><b>Vines on the Marycrest</b></a> introduced their new white Rhône blend, the 2011 "At Last." This blend of Viognier, Roussanne and Grenache Blanc will quench your summer thirst during a hot afternoon in Paso Robles, with perhaps a serving of shellfish or Asian cuisine. Better yet, grab a glass and enjoy a view of the vineyard from the deck of the new tasting room as soon as it opens to the public (fingers-crossed that it's soon!). <a href="http://www.eclusewines.com/"><b>Ecluse Wines</b></a> was also pouring quite a few new releases including single-varietal Rhône wines sourced from vineyards in Paso Robles. The 2009 Petite Sirah was showing well and will continue to benefit from additional bottle aging and decanting.<br />
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<a href="http://www.refugioranch.com/home/"><b>Refugio Ranch</b></a> made their debut at the Rhône Rangers Los Angeles Tasting with two stellar wines: the 2010 "Ineseño" (Roussanne/Viognier) and 2009 "Barbareño" (Syrah/Petite Sirah). Located on 415 acres in the Santa Ynez Valley, the property is perched on slopping hillsides covered by old oak trees and approximately 25 acre plantings of Rhône and Italian varietals. If you are interested in trying all three estate wines, visit the new tasting room located in Downtown Los Olivos at the intersection of Grand Avenue and Highway 154.<br />
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Now, the highlight of this year's tasting was <a href="http://www.wrathwines.com/"><b>Wrath Wines</b></a> of Monterey County. Although I moved on from my love affair with Syrah wines to other varietals, Wrath brought back that loving feeling with their lineup of vineyard-designated, Santa Lucia Highlands-sourced Syrah wines. In sum, the 2009 Syrah wines are opulent, layered, well-balanced and ready to enjoy now.<br />
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Finally, no Rhône Rangers tasting is complete without the antics of winemaker Larry Schaffer (Tercero Wines). We have lost count as to how many wines Larry now produces, but one thing is certain: he's got a wine for very occasion and every type of cuisine. <a href="http://www.tercerowines.com/"><b>Tercero Wines</b></a> is producing a great GSM blend called "Cuvee Christie," along with single-varietal, vineyard-designated wines from renowned vineyards in Santa Barbara County. One of my personal favorites is the 2009 Mourvedre (Camp 4 Vineyard). If you have the patience, decant it over the course of an hour or longer. <br />
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Regretfully, I missed out on <a href="https://www.mbwinery.com/"><b>Maison Bleue Winery</b></a>, <a href="https://www.bonnydoonvineyard.com/"><b>Bonny Doon Vineyard</b></a>, <a href="http://www.ridgewine.com/"><b>Ridge Vineyards</b></a>, and <a href="http://www.jkwinecompany.com/"><b>JK Wine Co.</b></a> I hope you got to try these wines and many more at the Rhône Rangers Los Angeles Tasting Event in Downtown Los Angeles. See you next year or on the road in the Central Coast. Cheers!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNFJTxSAPSyfbJkRgL7ab54vIqZJp4WtNC8AsJADTBfkRZ9AA0fQeco85Tibm1cZnDBkeSgQQkjMacw6lJy3z_qw4bQd90ReOG6HpCX8d1Bra09jgJ-rTY_qFHDDXLGVEGVF0SkIEJvNU/s1600/DSC_0945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNFJTxSAPSyfbJkRgL7ab54vIqZJp4WtNC8AsJADTBfkRZ9AA0fQeco85Tibm1cZnDBkeSgQQkjMacw6lJy3z_qw4bQd90ReOG6HpCX8d1Bra09jgJ-rTY_qFHDDXLGVEGVF0SkIEJvNU/s200/DSC_0945.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><u>RHÔNE RECOMMENDATIONS</u></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.altacolinawine.com/">Alta Colina</a></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"> 2010 Claudia Cuvee, Estate, $28</span><br />
<a href="http://www.altacolinawine.com/"><b>Alta Colina</b></a> 2009 Mourvedre, Estate, $42<br />
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<a href="http://anglimwinery.com/anglimwinery.php"><b>Anglim Winery</b></a> 2010 Viognier, $26<br />
<a href="http://anglimwinery.com/anglimwinery.php"><b>Anglim Winery</b></a> 2011 Rosé, Central Coast, $15<br />
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<a href="http://www.eclusewines.com/"><b>Ecluse Wines</b></a> 2010 Viognier, $28<br />
<a href="http://www.eclusewines.com/"><b>Ecluse Wines</b></a> 2009 Petite Sirah, $36<br />
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<a href="http://www.refugioranch.com/home/"><b>Refugio Ranch</b></a> 2010 White Blend, "Ineseño," $28<br />
<a href="http://www.refugioranch.com/home/"><b>Refugio Ranch</b></a> 2009 Red Blend, "Barbareño," $42<br />
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<a href="http://www.tablascreek.com/"><b>Tablas Creek</b></a> 2010 Grenache Blanc, $27<br />
<a href="http://www.tablascreek.com/"><b>Tablas Creek</b></a> 2010 Esprit de Beaucastel Blanc, $40<br />
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<b><a href="http://tercerowines.com/">Tercero Wines</a></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"> 2008 Red Blend, "Cuvee Christie," $30</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.vinesonthemarycrest.com/"><b>Vines on the Marycrest</b></a> 2011 White Blend, "At Last," $24<br />
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<a href="http://www.wrathwines.com/"><b>Wrath</b></a> 2010 Syrah, "Ex Anima," $25<br />
<a href="http://www.wrathwines.com/"><b>Wrath</b></a> 2009 Syrah, Doctor's Vineyard, $39<br />
<a href="http://www.wrathwines.com/"><b>Wrath</b></a> 2009 Syrah, Fairview, $39<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPIoI5uiVNbrTirkEUG1S8rERqEjMjllmdf2vxoI6Mt13w-KCYwHWrfeVSWAaWKlCRVXnTMbnOLEiQTNkhMGkWp7omjAeCVQ7VncRx6ksTqi_cCapMqZ79sS6L-aILVZNj-HvdGyVzYZI/s1600/DSC_0922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPIoI5uiVNbrTirkEUG1S8rERqEjMjllmdf2vxoI6Mt13w-KCYwHWrfeVSWAaWKlCRVXnTMbnOLEiQTNkhMGkWp7omjAeCVQ7VncRx6ksTqi_cCapMqZ79sS6L-aILVZNj-HvdGyVzYZI/s400/DSC_0922.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Victor & Jennifer Abascal, Vines on the Marycrest</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOQmFzO3XMtUOaISzzl64V5uk1DtT4SptE8meI0Z2AqswlfaY7X3ORPeeGjjopwqHY6EQP7US4I-B3FbDXj2M5yBNBpfl9Q5w0v9Re0Tkzq-_91h3N8HerB30DcAQKtrJdfqeUlZj_tc/s1600/DSC_0930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOQmFzO3XMtUOaISzzl64V5uk1DtT4SptE8meI0Z2AqswlfaY7X3ORPeeGjjopwqHY6EQP7US4I-B3FbDXj2M5yBNBpfl9Q5w0v9Re0Tkzq-_91h3N8HerB30DcAQKtrJdfqeUlZj_tc/s400/DSC_0930.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Randall Grahm, Bonny Doon Vineyard</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2RmLr5vWQdFxzGyi1A2SRM3xm1cmr6mbTetvsFUnpVobvV_xbkjmbg2pbjXmRMkoU4mpJum5mOvqtEwVKEWaiHqIEz96l1HujtQmIqKccJu2egD61xtWW4zQ7yYpUwL5r_UZGEs68cuw/s1600/DSC_0953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2RmLr5vWQdFxzGyi1A2SRM3xm1cmr6mbTetvsFUnpVobvV_xbkjmbg2pbjXmRMkoU4mpJum5mOvqtEwVKEWaiHqIEz96l1HujtQmIqKccJu2egD61xtWW4zQ7yYpUwL5r_UZGEs68cuw/s400/DSC_0953.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Wrath Wines, Monterey County</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-58919815449973079812012-05-05T11:29:00.001-07:002012-05-05T20:39:46.389-07:00Sip and Savor Sonoma CountyThe blog may be called <i>Central Coast Uncorked</i>, but this wine enthusiast took the opportunity last fall to indulge in the wines of Sonoma County. The two day trip through Sonoma County featured a great selection of wineries in the Russian River Valley, Downtown Healdsburg and Dry Creek Valley, as well as a sampling of some great cuisine (casual and elegant) in Healdsburg and Geyserville.<br />
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As a newbie to the area, I relied on my experiences tasting wines from local producers at events such as <b><a href="http://www.familywinemakers.org/">Family Winemakers of California</a></b>, recommendations from Twitter followers and fellow winemakers, as well as the <b><a href="http://www.wineroad.com/">Wine Road - Northern Sonoma County</a></b>, <b><a href="http://wdcv.com/">Winegrowers of Dry Creek Valley</a></b> and <b><a href="http://www.rrvw.org/">Russian River Valley Winegrowers</a></b>.<br />
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These resources helped me plan a memorable two day trip through Sonoma County's Dry Creek Valley and Russian River Valley. Visitors to northern Sonoma County should also indulge in the wines and magnificent landscape of the <a href="http://www.alexandervalley.org/" style="font-weight: bold;">Alexander Valley</a>, home to more than 40 wineries. And its all within an hour and a half drive north of San Francisco. In 2012, I am looking forward to flying or driving north to sip and savor the rest of Sonoma County. There is so much more to experience!<br />
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<b>DAY 1</b><br />
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The fog was thick and the cloud cover was low on a crisp fall weekday morning in the Russian River Valley. As you peer down the narrow roads surrounded by sloping rows of vineyards covered with the glow of red, orange and yellow colors, the Russian River Valley comes into focus in one dramatic landscape as the sun peers through the fog and clouds.<br />
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On a porch overlooking the vineyard, I enjoyed a full tasting of the newest releases from <b><a href="http://www.benoviawinery.com/">Benovia Winery</a></b>. Earlier in 2011 during the Family Winemakers Pasadena Trade Tasting, I fell in love with the wines of Benovia. It's almost impossible to enjoy a lineup of wines from a single winery, but Benovia hit it out the park with some spectacular Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Zinfandel wines from the Russian River Valley. <i>Recommendations: Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, Sonoma County Zinfandel, Cohn Vineyard Pinot Noir.</i><br />
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While the sun, clouds and fog played hooky throughout the morning, I focused on the next stop: <b><a href="http://www.inmanfamilywines.com/">Inman Family Wines</a></b>. Kathleen Inman is true to her craft as a winemaker should be, with a spin or screwcap on the competition. Located at the junction of Olivet and Piner Road, Inman Family Wines produces Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Rosé and Sparkling wines from Russian River Valley vineyards such as Thorn Ridge Ranch and their own Olivet Grange Vineyard. <i>Recommendations: Russian River Valley Chardonnay, Olivet Grange Vineyard Pinot Noir.</i><br />
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<b>DAY 2</b><br />
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Have you ever trekked through a new area not knowing what to expect on the other side of the ridge? On a rain soaked morning, I encountered the "wow" factor in the Dry Creek Valley just on the other side of the hill from Healdsburg. It is almost as if you are being warped into another time zone studded by small and medium-sized vineyard plots in a stunning landscape in northern Sonoma County.<br />
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Located on Dry Creek Road, north of Healdsburg, is one of the highlights from my trip in this renowned wine producing region - <b><a href="http://www.untivineyards.com/">Unti Vineyards</a></b>. Established in 1997, Unit Vineyards is a family-owned and operated winery producing small lots of estate grown Zinfandel, Rhône and Italian varietals. <i>Recommendations: Rosé, Barbera, Segromigno, Zinfandel.</i><br />
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As W. Dry Creek Road road narrows and ends at its northern point, a dirt path off the main road winds through the vineyards of <b><a href="https://www.prestonvineyards.com/">Preston of Dry Creek</a></b>. Preston is a family operated farm winery worth the visit, especially for Rhône wine lovers. <i>Recommendations: Mourvèdre, Syrah~Sirah.</i><br />
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If you are looking for the true wine garagiste experience, look no further than <a href="http://www.frickwinery.com/index.asp" style="font-weight: bold;">Frick Winery</a>. These hand-crafted, small lot wines are produced largely from estate fruit, as well as Carignane from 100 year old vines in Mendocino County.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdyozO-SlPpna8e1JGRJhZJEHepP4XW24T3jK6K4ck73lO5AzwRu07LwX7XZmn7KJK4H7BFY_dl94xxFCIrZFtm36Hd1ijvdDEm11uJs0RRP3N8n1TI11Cr0hd4WJVjv6eqJfwn7SWmb4/s1600/DSC_0494.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdyozO-SlPpna8e1JGRJhZJEHepP4XW24T3jK6K4ck73lO5AzwRu07LwX7XZmn7KJK4H7BFY_dl94xxFCIrZFtm36Hd1ijvdDEm11uJs0RRP3N8n1TI11Cr0hd4WJVjv6eqJfwn7SWmb4/s400/DSC_0494.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Russian River Valley</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5wbdsNhq6O4Eo4GpuRsFKhNthH3snCnqt7tagkZ8nuDc8dGQvY3Aq0SySckr6BIAmLV-aCpK8MEj3x9kxXnJP685hKKRYyKZamKx7QuV9TtPyHhTf8IEJ7F55YJbtwFJboHE_0uYMFbU/s1600/DSC_0559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5wbdsNhq6O4Eo4GpuRsFKhNthH3snCnqt7tagkZ8nuDc8dGQvY3Aq0SySckr6BIAmLV-aCpK8MEj3x9kxXnJP685hKKRYyKZamKx7QuV9TtPyHhTf8IEJ7F55YJbtwFJboHE_0uYMFbU/s400/DSC_0559.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dry Creek Valley</td></tr>
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<b>DOWNTOWN HEALDSBURG</b><br />
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<a href="http://www.daviswines.com/"><b>Davis Family Vineyards</b></a><br />
52 Front Street, Healdsburg (707) 569-0171<br />
Open Thursday-Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.<br />
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<a href="http://www.hawleywine.com/public_html/ez/"><b>Hawley Winery</b></a><br />
36 North Street, Healdsburg (707) 473-9500<br />
Open daily 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.<br />
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<b>DRY CREEK VALLEY</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.untivineyards.com/"><b>Unti Vineyards</b></a><br />
4202 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg (707) 433-5590<br />
Open daily by appointment, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.prestonvineyards.com/"><b>Preston of Dry Creek</b></a><br />
9282 West Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg<br />
Open daily 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.collierfalls.com/">Collier Falls Winery</a></b><br />
4791 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg (707) 433-7373<br />
Open daily 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.frickwinery.com/index.asp"><b>Frick Winery</b></a><br />
23072 Walling Road, Geyserville (707) 857-1980<br />
Open Fri-Sun 12:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Summer); Sat & Sun 12:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Winter)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ridgewine.com/"><b>Ridge Vineyards (Lytton Springs Winery)</b></a><br />
650 Lytton Springs Road, Healdsburg (707) 433-7721<br />
Open daily 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.<br />
<br />
<b>RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.benoviawinery.com/"><b>Benovia Winery</b></a><br />
3339 Hartman Road, Santa Rosa (707) 526-4441<br />
Open daily by appointment, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.inmanfamilywines.com/"><b>Inman Family Wines</b></a><br />
3900 Piner Road, Santa Rosa (707) 293-9576<br />
Open Thursday-Monday, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.swanwinery.com/"><b>Joseph Swan Vineyards</b></a><br />
2916 Laguna Road, Santa Rosa (Winery entrance on Trenton Road) (707) 573-3747<br />
Open Saturday & Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.fogcrestvineyard.com/"><b>Fog Crest Vineyard</b></a><br />
7602 Occidental Road, Sebastapol (800) 931-2906<br />
Open by appointment only<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.woodenheadwine.com/">Woodenhead Vintners</a></b><br />
5700 River Road, Santa Rosa (707) 887-2703<br />
Open Thursday-Monday, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.<br />
<br />
<b>WHERE TO EAT</b><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.mycatellis.com/">Catelli's </a></b><br />
21047 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville (707) 857-3471. Lunch and Dinner<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.diavolapizzeria.com/">Diavola Pizzeria</a></b><br />
21021 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville (707) 814-0111. Lunch and Dinner<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.barndiva.com/">Barndiva</a></b><br />
213 Center Street, Healdsburg (707) 431-0100. Lunch and Dinner<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.scopahealdsburg.com/">Scopa</a></b><br />
109A Plaza Street, Healdsburg (707) 433-5282. Dinner<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.costeaux.com/"><b>Costeaux French Bakery</b></a><br />
417 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg (707) 433-1913. Breakfast and Lunch<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wurst-Restaurant/101310289955995">The Wurst</a></b><br />
22 Matheson Street, Healdsburg (707) 395-0214. Lunch and Dinner<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://moustachebakedgoods.com/">Moustache Baked Goods</a></b><br />
381 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg (707) 395-4111. Cupcakes<br />
<br />
<b>WHERE TO STAY</b><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.drycreekinn.com/">Best Western Plus Dry Creek Valley Inn</a> </b><i>(Economy)</i><br />
198 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg (800) 222-5784<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.healdsburginn.com/" style="font-weight: bold;">Healdsburg Inn</a><b> </b><i>(Historic)</i><br />
112 Matheson Street, Healdsburg (800) 431-8663<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.hotelhealdsburg.com/home/">Hotel Healdsburg</a> </b><i>(Luxury)</i><br />
25 Matheson Street, Healdsburg (800) 889-7188<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOYQo36kA3VQOXEwQsXgVLU-5MHOMLX8tDUByo9-3tcQaxj3OurIXdwAiZ1Okb56zpyiIsjtFAelE_1ZJE1kQg96qVgqj0fgWU5x0IKypoXKeTxj20EfheWlB4GeebsFUCyjmoXmi51fw/s1600/DSC_0430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOYQo36kA3VQOXEwQsXgVLU-5MHOMLX8tDUByo9-3tcQaxj3OurIXdwAiZ1Okb56zpyiIsjtFAelE_1ZJE1kQg96qVgqj0fgWU5x0IKypoXKeTxj20EfheWlB4GeebsFUCyjmoXmi51fw/s400/DSC_0430.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Benovia Wines, Russian River Valley</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to Benovia Winery, Russian River Valley</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-vC3Iq23omJ-_Gi_bzUUWlBmPQSPs8tKJJm4tqa5RxRKjq3D8BxEV-HWQyDxvwaxrCcva32px6aSm71dDBj33gR2rr6Lwyn-fF3uduVg8cvW7CxhFAkul4ChN4WL94XAbNNDnpozKqsM/s1600/DSC_0470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-vC3Iq23omJ-_Gi_bzUUWlBmPQSPs8tKJJm4tqa5RxRKjq3D8BxEV-HWQyDxvwaxrCcva32px6aSm71dDBj33gR2rr6Lwyn-fF3uduVg8cvW7CxhFAkul4ChN4WL94XAbNNDnpozKqsM/s400/DSC_0470.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inman Family Wines, Russian River Valley</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgldpjfagu2FimOr5xYNwiMn74mNtLKC9rtaX3tCcFdiWsqwE8Bg3F3cLJ9A8Gqg4_JVoaFpAJoYMSQmSsC3ZlmcWEwtLImKl9qctO4K-9HIN4-wIGpvqwZhja6MmcsSt9-jl2U4Coe3V0/s1600/DSC_0489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgldpjfagu2FimOr5xYNwiMn74mNtLKC9rtaX3tCcFdiWsqwE8Bg3F3cLJ9A8Gqg4_JVoaFpAJoYMSQmSsC3ZlmcWEwtLImKl9qctO4K-9HIN4-wIGpvqwZhja6MmcsSt9-jl2U4Coe3V0/s400/DSC_0489.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Woodenhead Vintners, Russian River Valley</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYUtarwasGuXtBuU54NGJwoN6Cay_A-UAKdUSTb5qnodlsTDiKZKkRMnNMQF1ps2ibbnWwVAtL_7zn-y3Q1YwIpfEjKNR1L9Z_cJ9gar9Dakpjxs42NyPmsFp-ZC2MPlBPT1cZgBt4pbc/s1600/DSC_0507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYUtarwasGuXtBuU54NGJwoN6Cay_A-UAKdUSTb5qnodlsTDiKZKkRMnNMQF1ps2ibbnWwVAtL_7zn-y3Q1YwIpfEjKNR1L9Z_cJ9gar9Dakpjxs42NyPmsFp-ZC2MPlBPT1cZgBt4pbc/s400/DSC_0507.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Davis Family Vineyards, Healdsburg</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHu6JxWwLORy05VVipLQiEiUJUT2D975FicQq1QSleEe7CgzwGjjTIsRCecpvQxaoylT8vJPZ2TMj_JupwHQkRFYJDwHSmd6JgWRo2p2DVSnupPbTANJsybrj9Iysta_jUqd5KhVwOW0g/s1600/DSC_0529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHu6JxWwLORy05VVipLQiEiUJUT2D975FicQq1QSleEe7CgzwGjjTIsRCecpvQxaoylT8vJPZ2TMj_JupwHQkRFYJDwHSmd6JgWRo2p2DVSnupPbTANJsybrj9Iysta_jUqd5KhVwOW0g/s400/DSC_0529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unti Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiINfyc4E-e2gC3H5FKGuIEQYl6yJAdoSJl3a0wUR6iesJGmO271oGA3eRthIwTxYYY49C-IYMKWYuDyGA-Mm4rHUXyq1IUtiIww1YPm2L_7JZnB-3ULRV0J6jygzNPXssoUvYtFUkwqUU/s1600/DSC_0561.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiINfyc4E-e2gC3H5FKGuIEQYl6yJAdoSJl3a0wUR6iesJGmO271oGA3eRthIwTxYYY49C-IYMKWYuDyGA-Mm4rHUXyq1IUtiIww1YPm2L_7JZnB-3ULRV0J6jygzNPXssoUvYtFUkwqUU/s400/DSC_0561.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Preston of Dry Creek Winery & Vineyard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-73610399667451329792012-04-28T14:43:00.000-07:002012-05-19T07:46:50.233-07:00Rhône Rangers Los Angeles Tasting Event 2012<b>Rhône Rangers</b> fans: Your favorite wineries are coming to Downtown Los Angeles to the iconic and historic Vibiana. On June 3rd, the <b><a href="http://www.rhonerangers.org/">Rhône Rangers</a></b> will ride into Los Angeles with over 40 winery members pouring over 200 Rhône varietal wines at this premier location. <br />
<br />
This intimate tasting has found a heavenly home in the City of Angels after a couple years in Santa Monica. Within the Baroque-inspired Italian façade, wineries from California's premier wine growing and producing regions will match the grand setting with some of the most tantalizing wines from mostly small, family-owned producers.<br />
<br />
For over 100 years, the <b>Cathedral of St. Vibiana</b> welcomed worshippers through its doors near the historic core of Downtown Los Angeles. After suffering extensive damage during the 1994 Northridge Earthquake and a drawn-out legal battle to preserve the historic site, the Archdiocese of Los Angeles relocated to another site a few blocks away and the structure was preserved and operates today as a premier event venue. <br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.vibianala.com/">Vibiana</a></b> is located at the corner of Main Street and 2nd Street surrounded on one side by the Thom Mayne-designed Caltrans building, the new LAPD Headquarters, and the historic Higgins Building, which was built in 1910 and contained the city's first privately-owned power plant. In the background stands Los Angeles City Hall - the tallest building in Los Angeles until 1964.<br />
<br />
Before the wine tasting begins, one hundred <b>"Backstage Pass"</b> holders can enjoy an informal picnic-style lunch from 2-3:30 p.m. with the winemakers outdoors in the courtyard, as well as entry to the consumer walk-around tasting at 3:30 p.m. The <b>Consumer Tasting</b> will take place from 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. And like any large gathering in Los Angeles, the food trucks will be on hand to help you pair tasty treats with those wines. Check out the video below from the 2010 Los Angeles Tasting for all the highlights of this premier tasting event.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><u>Participating Wineries</u></i>: Acquiesce Winery, Adelaida Cellars, Anglim Winery, Alta Colina, Andrew Murray Vineyards, Bonny Doon Vineyard, Calcareous Vineyard, Cass Winery, Clavo Cellars, Clayhouse Wines, Cornerstone Cellars, Cosa Obra, Curtis Winery, Denner, Derby Wine Estates, Eberle Winery, Ecluse, Edward Sellers, Epiphany Cellars, Fess Parker Winery & Vineyards, Frick Winery, Grey Wolf Cellars, Halter Ranch Vineyard, Hearthstone Vineyard & Winery, Hug Cellars, J. Lohr Vineyards, JK Wine Co., L'Aventure, Maison Bleue, Martian Ranch, Meyer Family Cellars, Michael-David Winery, Miner Family Winery, Qupe, Refugio Ranch Vineyards, Ridge Vineyards, Stolpman Vineyards, Tablas Creek Vineyards, Tercero Wines, Thacher Winery, Treana & Hope Family Wines, Venteux Vineyards, Villicana, Vina Robles, Vines on the Marycrest, Wrath, Zaca Mesa Winery.</blockquote>
<b><a href="http://www.rhonerangers.org/calendar/losangeles.php">Rhône Rangers Los Angeles Tasting Event</a></b><br />
Date: Sunday, June 3, 2012<br />
Time: 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.<br />
Location: Vibiana, 214 South Main Street, Downtown Los Angeles<br />
Cost: <b><a href="http://www.eventbrite.com/event/3374088991">Consumer Tasting - $45</a>,</b> <b><a href="http://www.eventbrite.com/event/2624750700">Backstage Pass - $85</a></b><br />
<b>*USE PROMO CODE SDKLA612 for $5 OFF*</b><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/yxrYUbXPNns" width="560"></iframe></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-79609356190778644542012-03-29T19:28:00.000-07:002012-05-02T22:57:22.356-07:00Winemaker Profile: Larry Schaffer of Tercero WinesIf you know anything about Santa Barbara County Wine Country and its colorful characters of winemakers, then you know the name Larry Schaffer. A couple of things come to mind when you hear his name: "eccentric," "mad scientist," "cheerleader for Santa Barbara County wines" and "zany." Perhaps you have your own description, but remember, this is a family-oriented blog. <br />
<br />
It all started when Schaffer left a career in the publishing business to pursue a degree in Viticulture and Enology from UC Davis and his dream of becoming a winemaker. With his degree in hand, Larry moved his family from Southern California to the bucolic Santa Ynez Valley to become the enologist for Fess Parker Winery.<br />
<br />
During his stint on the winemaking team at Fess Parker, Larry began his quest to produce Rhône varietal wines under his new label, <b><a href="http://tercerowines.com/">tercero wines</a></b>. With his winemaking and sales experience, Larry has transformed his Santa Barbara County wine label into a grassroots business built on a solid viral following and word-of-mouth notoriety. Nobody said it was going to be easy to distinguish himself from the other well-established wineries in Santa Barbara County, but Schaffer remains focused on his goal of producing acid driven, Rhône varietal wines.<br />
<br />
Tercero Wines offers a <b><a href="http://tercerowines.com/">range of wines</a></b> including Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah, a Rhône blend, Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Rosé, and a dry Gewürztraminer. The grapes are sourced from a numerous vineyards in Santa Barbara County including Thompson, Larner, Tierra Alta, Watch Hill, White Hawk, and Camp 4. Be sure to ask Larry what's his favorite wine. He'll ask you which one of your children do you love more. Come on Larry; everyone has a favorite child. They just don't say it front of the other children...<br />
<br />
With six vintages under his belt, Schaffer continues to perfect his craft and expand his label with the opening of a new tasting room in Downtown Los Olivos. You can find Schaffer and tercero wines at any of the tasting events held each year by the major wine industry associations such as the Santa Barbara County Vintners' Association, where he serves on the Board as Vice President, Family Winemakers of California, and Rhône Rangers; just look for the guy with the Erlenmeyer flasks. What better (or cheaper) way to decant wines, right?<br />
<br />
If there is one thing Larry enjoys most, it's connecting with people and sharing his reasons why Santa Barbara County is the premier grape growing and wine producing region in California. SBC is an amazingly diverse region with numerous AVAs and microclimates that truly produce some of the best wines in the world. But whatever you do, don't loop Santa Barbara County in with the rest of the Central Coast and don't assume one part of Santa Barbara County is the same as all other parts. Schaffer will make sure you leave with the facts. Don't worry Larry; we are quickly learning.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://tercerowines.com/">tercero wines</a></b><br />
2445 Alamo Pintado Road, Los Olivos (entrance on San Marcos Ave. next to Dragonette Cellars)<br />
(805) 245-9584<br />
Open Friday-Monday, 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. or call for an appointment<br />
Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/tercerowinesfans">tercero wines</a><br />
Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/tercerowines">@tercerowines</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_PY4KWlBPht3wnt-FSAikbcl2vaVnbOJOh4O1C_wyu4W93XM5MUozLKb0T-FCCyl3x_ufK31Imw-3Cd6C-SqkatM5rIIF2Ri7rKWZktRCvaqYkbJ0hkTJnvZfZL_C3K8uaa4wmfG8Lys/s1600/DSC_0678.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_PY4KWlBPht3wnt-FSAikbcl2vaVnbOJOh4O1C_wyu4W93XM5MUozLKb0T-FCCyl3x_ufK31Imw-3Cd6C-SqkatM5rIIF2Ri7rKWZktRCvaqYkbJ0hkTJnvZfZL_C3K8uaa4wmfG8Lys/s400/DSC_0678.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">tercero wines line up</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">tercero wines tasting room</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR29pirMJbkA2t87sDrjoO1flqoAh8VQxBgdZYFTmks4C2SysTee-TrXa8YDzr-Ze3WZXag84FbJ-WErY7UOL7Dsje2ynDDxtfvYEhNoVDINtOzM-MndbKDsZnjmVtCIzpg291FDT_CE8/s1600/DSC_0807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR29pirMJbkA2t87sDrjoO1flqoAh8VQxBgdZYFTmks4C2SysTee-TrXa8YDzr-Ze3WZXag84FbJ-WErY7UOL7Dsje2ynDDxtfvYEhNoVDINtOzM-MndbKDsZnjmVtCIzpg291FDT_CE8/s400/DSC_0807.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Schaffer pouring at Family Winemakers San Diego Tasting 2012</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-48527340072808367552012-01-16T14:34:00.000-08:002012-01-17T08:11:18.501-08:00Exploring Santa Barbara's Urban Wine Trail<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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While the allure of Santa Barbara County Wine Country brings in thousands of visitors annually to the famous towns and appellations of this iconic wine destination, people are quickly discovering the fifteen wineries that line the <b><a href="http://www.urbanwinetrailsb.com/">Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail</a> </b>from the scenic coastline to Downtown's Historic Arts District.<br />
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Located 90 miles north of Los Angeles, Downtown Santa Barbara is easily becoming a premier wine destination for novice and experienced wine drinkers looking for quality and award winning wines from Santa Barbara County. The Urban Wine Trail's convenient location allows wine tasters to park their cars and walk to many of the tasting rooms that line Anacapa Street just a block or two from Cabrillo Boulevard and Stearns Wharf.<br />
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The Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail also features one of the most acclaimed Rhône varietal wine producers in California - <b><a href="http://www.jaffurswine.com/index.html">Jaffurs Wine Cellars</a></b>. Jaffurs sources Syrah, Petite Sirah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Viognier, Grenache Blanc and Roussanne from renowned Santa Barbara County vineyards such as Bien Nacido, Thompson, Ampelos and Verna's. The winemaking team of Craig Jaffurs, Dave Yates and Matt Brady produce stunning wines that represent the finest qualities of Rhône varietals and the terroir of each vineyard.<br />
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If you want to stick to the itinerary and enjoy as many tasting rooms as possible, grab a sandwich to go from <b><a href="http://paninorestaurants.com/">Panino</a></b> in <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=panino+4+93109&ie=UTF8&cid=34422229,-119651947,2236426346741790977&ll=34.462976,-119.635277&spn=0.08492,0.102997&z=12&source=embed"><b>Montecito</b></a> <i>(1014 Coast Village Road, 805-565-0137)</i> or <b><a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=panino+93101&ie=UTF8&ll=34.422912,-119.697075&spn=0.04248,0.051498&z=13&source=embed">Downtown Santa Barbara</a></b> <i>(834 Santa Barbara Street, 805-963-3700)</i>. After a day of tasting, there are plenty of fine <b><a href="http://www.santabarbaradowntown.com/dine">dining options</a></b> throughout town with exemplary wine lists. Likewise, Santa Barbara has a hotel for every budget and accommodation.<br />
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<b><u>WINERIES</u></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://aubonclimat.com/">Au Bon Climat</a></b>, <i>813 Anacapa St., (805) 966-9463</i>. Open daily 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.carrwinery.com/">Carr Vineyards & Winery</a></b>, <i>414 N. Salsipuedes St., (805) 965-7985</i>. Open daily 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. & Thursday-Sunday, 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.<br />
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<b><a href="http://cottonwoodcanyon.com/">Cottonwood Canyon</a></b>, <i>224 Anacapa St., Suite 1A, (805) 963-1221</i>. Open Fall/Winter: Thursday-Sunday, 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. & Spring/Summer: 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.conwayfamilywines.com/">Conway Family Wines</a></b>, <i>217 Stearns Wharf, (805) 618-1185</i>. Open daily 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.jaffurswine.com/">Jaffurs Wine Cellars</a></b>, <i>819 E. Montecito St., (805) 962-7003</i>. Open Friday-Monday, 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.kalyrawinery.com/">Kalyra Winery</a></b>, <i>212 State St., (805) 965-8606</i>. Open daily 12:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.kuninwines.com/">Kunin Wines</a></b>, <i>28 Anacapa St., (805) 963-9633</i>. Open daily 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.margerumwinecompany.com/">Margerum Wine Company</a></b>, <i>813 Anacapa St., (805) 966-9463</i>. Open daily 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.municipalwinemakers.com/">Municipal Winemakers</a></b>, <i>22 Anacapa St., (805) 931-6864</i>. Open daily 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (till 11:00 p.m., Thursday-Saturday)<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.oreanawinery.com/">Oreana Winery</a></b>, <i>205 Anacapa St., (805) 962-5857</i>. Open Monday-Thursday 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Friday-Sunday 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.sanguiswine.com/">Sanguis</a></b>, <i>8 Ashley Ave., (805) 845-0920</i>. Open by appointment only<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.sbwinery.com/">Santa Barbara Winery</a></b>, <i>202 Anacapa St., (805) 963-3633</i>. Open daily 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.silverwines.com/">Silver Wines</a></b>, <i>724 Reddick St., (805) 963-3052</i>. Open by appointment only<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.summerlandwine.com/">Summerland Winery</a></b>, <i>2330 Lillie Ave., (805) 565-9463</i>. Open daily 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.whitcraftwinery.com/Home.html">Whitcraft Winery</a></b>, <i>36 A South Calle Cesar Chavez, (805) 730-1680</i>. Open Friday-Monday 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-3693080995939600842011-11-16T21:57:00.001-08:002011-11-25T16:00:01.546-08:00"Balls-to-the-Wall Wine" Flows at Herman Story WinesHedonistic. Voluptuous. Masculine. Age worthy. These are words most often used to describe winemaker Russell P. From, but they also best describe the opulent and robust Rhône varietal wines bottled under his <b><a href="http://hermanstorywines.com/">Herman Story</a></b> wine label. Have you ever met Russell? Doesn't he look like Grizzly Adams? Come on, maybe just a little?<br />
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Earlier this year, From opened a new tasting room in a commercial area on the eastside of the 101 Freeway only a few blocks from Downtown Paso Robles. Prior to opening the tasting room, his wines were available at various wine shops, restaurants and the Barrel 27 Wine Co. tasting room in Paso Robles. One of the great things about the Herman Story tasting room is its location. You can get your car repaired, pick up building materials for a new shed and taste Rhône varietal wines from one of the region's notable winemakers - all on one block! Russell may even through in an oil change or tire rotation with a case purchase. <br />
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Right now you are probably wondering who in the world is Herman Story? If you look at the blown up photos in the tasting room and winery, you get the sense that Russell's <i>grandfather</i> was a renaissance man from an era were tales and figures loomed large as did the man himself. As Russell describes him, "Herman Story was a rancher, logger, swapper, banker, philanthropist, a teller of tales, and my grandfather."<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Herman Story</td></tr>
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Herman Story Wines sources grapes from vineyards in Santa Barbara County, Arroyo Grande and Paso Robles, such as the Larner Vineyard, White Hawk Vineyard, Luna Matta Vineyard, Santa Barbara Highlands and Laetitia Vineyard. Over the years, Herman Story Wines has received wide acclaim for its wines, which often sell out before the scores are released. For several years, I have been collecting the Nuts & Bolts Syrah. It'll knock your socks off and I can't wait to pour a vertical of the '06-'08 vintage in the near future. So make it a point to drop into the tasting room on your next trip to Paso Robles Wine Country.<br />
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<b><u>Wine Selections</u></b><br />
-- Larner Vineyard Grenache<br />
-- On the Road Grenache<br />
-- Larner Vineyard Syrah<br />
-- White Hawk Vineyard Syrah<br />
-- Nuts & Bolts Syrah<br />
-- 239 Days Syrah<br />
-- Casual Encounters Red Rhône-style blend<br />
-- Tomboy White Wine<br />
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<b><a href="http://hermanstorywines.com/">Herman Story Wines</a></b><br />
1227 Paso Robles Street, Paso Robles<br />
(805) 237-2400<br />
Open Thursday-Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:thirsty@hermanstorywines.com">thirsty@hermanstorywines.com</a><br />
Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/hermanstory">Herman Story Wines</a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Herman Story Wines Tasting Room & Winery</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Glory looms large over the Herman Story Tasting Room</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-78949156018681393872011-10-24T20:20:00.000-07:002011-11-23T13:07:13.900-08:00"Winemakers to Watch" Open Tasting Room in Los OlivosThis summer, Downtown Los Olivos welcomed one of its newest tasting room featuring three emerging wine labels from two notable winemakers in Santa Barbara County. <a href="http://altamaria.com/"><b>Alta Maria Vineyards</b></a>, <a href="http://www.native9wine.com/"><b>Native9</b></a> and <a href="http://autonomwines.com/"><b>Autonom Wines</b></a> produce a selection of superbly crafted wines under each label from the flagship Pinot Noir to Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Rhône varietal blends.<br />
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James Ontiveros and Paul Wilkins honed their skills at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo as classmates, as well as in the vineyard and winery over many years working to produce some awarding winning wines from the Santa Maria Valley and Santa Ynez Valley. As if that day job wasn't enough, Ontiveros maintains Rancho Ontiveros Vineyard and serves as Director of Sales and Marketing for Bien Nacido Vineyards. Paul Wilkins served as assistant winemaker for Alban Vineyards for eight years before forming a partnership with Ontiveros on Native9, Alta Maria and Autonom. It should be no surprise that the San Francisco Chronicle hailed the duo as <b>"<a href="http://articles.sfgate.com/2011-01-16/food/27030752_1_john-alban-winemakers-edna-valley">Winemakers to Watch in 2011</a>."</b><br />
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The Alta Maria Vineyards tasting room is located along Grand Avenue in the heart of Downtown Los Olivos. The location may be familiar to those that frequent Los Olivos because it once housed Consilience Wines, which has since moved in with its sister label, Tre Anelli. </div>
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<b><a href="http://altamaria.com/">Alta Maria Vineyards</a></b></div>
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2933 Grand Avenue, Suite A, Los Olivos</div>
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Phone: (805) 686-1144</div>
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Open Daily 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.</div>
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Tasting Fee: $10-$15</div>
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Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/AltaMariaWine">@AltaMariaWine</a></div>
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Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/altamaria">Alta Maria Vineyards</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/autonomwines">Autonom Wines</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/native9wines">Native9 Wines</a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://altamaria.com/">Alta Maria Vineyards</a></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.native9wine.com/">Native9Wines</a></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5BXLne3d0iQhprR27bEPajus3kg3MznzEsLgi8bMrWdRd6ih5k2FHS8MB4I0OFpic3xycOaL60KoGTLI5XrWnNyOaqET5KprFKI2JEF6sz1uaIb0a58w6UOsuDs7_3rMSWuTEXXdOPLw/s1600/DSC_0128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5BXLne3d0iQhprR27bEPajus3kg3MznzEsLgi8bMrWdRd6ih5k2FHS8MB4I0OFpic3xycOaL60KoGTLI5XrWnNyOaqET5KprFKI2JEF6sz1uaIb0a58w6UOsuDs7_3rMSWuTEXXdOPLw/s400/DSC_0128.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://autonomwines.com/">Autonom Wines</a></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-41288994421818867802011-10-12T10:51:00.000-07:002011-10-12T10:51:31.699-07:00Garagiste Festival Shines Spotlight on Artisan Winemakers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkZbOzjO5LWevM44RBCecE3EgI0FUiNKIdnynLcK_qMphwPzJ43jfpDZG332zzn5N-92MJ17EcrF_Y14WMXNkHRj_AcPIbosCfCUy8If13cJh7LGJey5NrmZTY2X_bMd5mfx94kBrE1qk/s1600/GaragisteBannerTransColor4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkZbOzjO5LWevM44RBCecE3EgI0FUiNKIdnynLcK_qMphwPzJ43jfpDZG332zzn5N-92MJ17EcrF_Y14WMXNkHRj_AcPIbosCfCUy8If13cJh7LGJey5NrmZTY2X_bMd5mfx94kBrE1qk/s520/GaragisteBannerTransColor4.png" width="520" /></a></div>
<br />
What is a "Garagiste?" It is a term originally used in the Bordeaux region of France to denigrate the renegade small-lot winemakers, who often work from their garages and refused to follow the rules. While the French may frown upon the "garagistes," a group of dedicated wine enthusiasts and artisan winemakers are resurrecting the term to describe the growing number of small-lot producers from California's famed wine producing regions. Make no mistake: these wineries are producing some of the finest wines you may never have heard of. But now is your chance to savor the Garagiste wines of California's Central Coast.<br />
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<b><a href="http://californiagaragistes.com/">The Garagiste Festival</a> </b>will bring together 40 wineries from Paso Robles and Santa Barbara County for this inaugural event at <b><a href="http://www.windfallfarms.net/">Windfall Farms</a></b>, located in the rolling hillsides of Eastside Paso Robles.<br />
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The Garagiste Festival will also feature two informative seminars with several of the most renowned winemakers in California's Central Coast - Justin Smith (Saxum), Neil Collins (Tablas Creek and Lone Madrone), and Terry Culton (Adelaida Cellars).<br />
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<u><b>DETAILS</b></u><br />
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<a href="http://californiagaragistes.com/"><b>The Garagiste Festival</b></a><br />
November 12, 2011<br />
Windfall Farms, Paso Robles<br />
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"Paso Rocks the World" Seminar: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.<br />
"The Ultimate Barrel Tasting-Oak Flavors Tasted & Explained Seminar: 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.<br />
Consumer Tasting: 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.<br />
Winemaker After Party: 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.<br />
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Tickets are now available for the Festival by clicking <a href="http://californiagaragistes.com/festival-ticket/"><b>here</b></a>.
Tickets for the Consumer Tasting cost $55. The All-Access Pass costs
$100 and includes admission to the 2 seminars, consumer tasting and
winemaker after party.<br />
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Want to find out more about what is a "Garagiste" and the venue for this year's inaugural Garagiste Festival? Check out the videos below!
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/1LrNPQDEcWo?hd=1" width="560"></iframe>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/C0ATehZTIL8?hd=1" width="560"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-62915386101960008592011-07-23T15:36:00.000-07:002011-07-27T23:37:13.764-07:00Rhône Fever Hits Los Angeles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2DxNpSt7uFe9SGh0_KT7UaJyvfoYrdc2faBsdzXmAvDD4bus1qictnUixjSp3w9KXrLLgztfARXe6HcdgxchLcxc91jt9_QdEqY28EmGtuatTCUJ621VnsHftugaY5uAGu2mDogbodUU/s1600/rhonerangers.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2DxNpSt7uFe9SGh0_KT7UaJyvfoYrdc2faBsdzXmAvDD4bus1qictnUixjSp3w9KXrLLgztfARXe6HcdgxchLcxc91jt9_QdEqY28EmGtuatTCUJ621VnsHftugaY5uAGu2mDogbodUU/s200/rhonerangers.gif" width="200" /></a></div>Rhône fever is hitting Los Angeles on Saturday, August 7th when the <b><a href="http://www.rhonerangers.org/">Rhône Rangers</a></b> roll into town. There's no better way to quench your summer thirst than with the finest Rhône wines at the <a href="http://www.rhonerangers.org/calendar/losangeles.php"><b>Rhône Rangers Los Angeles Tasting</b></a> at Pier 59 Studios West in Santa Monica. <br />
<br />
This widely attended event will feature over 40 wineries pouring single-varietal and Rhône blend wines from renowned wine producing regions in California, including Paso Robles and Santa Barbara County. <br />
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<a href="http://centralcoastuncorked.blogspot.com/2010/08/2010-rhone-rangers-los-angeles-tasting.html"><b>Last year's tasting</b></a> featured a tantalizing collection of wines from a great group of Central Coast wineries including <b><a href="http://www.tercerowines.com/">Tercero Wines</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.vinesonthemarycrest.com/">Vines on the Marycrest</a></b>, <b><a href="http://eclusewines.com/">Écluse Wines</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.anglimwinery.com/anglimwinery.php">Anglim Winery</a></b>, <b><a href="http://tablascreek.com/">Tablas Creek</a></b>, <b><a href="http://edwardsellers.com/">Edward Sellers Vineyards & Wines</a>, <a href="http://www.casswines.com/">Cass Winery</a></b> and many others. This year's event will feature new members of the Rhône Rangers, who are sure to score big with Rhône enthusiasts in Los Angeles.<br />
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Participating wineries include: Adelaida, Alta Colina, Andrew Murray, Anglim, Bonny Doon, Calcareous, Caliza, Clavo, Conway Family Wines, Cornerstone Cellars, Curtis Winery, Cypher, Derby Wine Estates, Donelan, Eberle, Ecluse, Edward Sellers, Epiphany, Fess Parker, Frick, Halter Ranch, Holly's Hills, J. Lohr, Jada, JK Wine Co-Katin & Arada, Kaleidos, Maison Bleue, Michael-David, Nine Wine Estates, Ortman Family Vineyards, Pomar Junction, Qupe, Stolpman, Tablas Creek, Tercero, Treana, Venteux Vineyards, Vina Robles, Waterbrook, Wind Gap, Zaca Mesa.<br />
<br />
So, enjoy a little of Hollywood and savor California's Central Coast at the Rhône Rangers Los Angeles Tasting on August 7, 2011 at Pier 59 Studios West.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.rhonerangers.org/calendar/losangeles.php">Rhône Rangers Los Angeles Tasting</a></b><br />
Sunday, August 7, 2011<br />
Pier 59 Studios West, 2415 Michigan Ave., Santa Monica<br />
2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. General Admission, $45<br />
12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. VIP Admission, $75<br />
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</div><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/yxrYUbXPNns" width="560"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-13301322360528150722011-06-21T23:16:00.000-07:002011-07-26T17:45:41.254-07:00Going for Gold at the Central Coast Wine Competition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh71w4CAkmaposDFOh5ZsdR3iZt_FnRnp4bTKQDstfxEYf3orterw5tkojxLP2tQHeujQ_FccpCmTTrWV0lfu48F52_HJwMEtGQZXZQOuqLzglfN8-eKvN7AGHlcs2Coo_ch6jeDanncls/s1600/DSC_0067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh71w4CAkmaposDFOh5ZsdR3iZt_FnRnp4bTKQDstfxEYf3orterw5tkojxLP2tQHeujQ_FccpCmTTrWV0lfu48F52_HJwMEtGQZXZQOuqLzglfN8-eKvN7AGHlcs2Coo_ch6jeDanncls/s200/DSC_0067.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Let the judging begin! Over a dozen judges from the wine industry assembled inside the Paso Robles Event Center on June 16th to swirl, smell, sip and spit nearly 600 wines in 37 divisions and classes from boutique wineries and major wine producers within the Central Coast AVA, including Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. The <a href="http://centralcoastwinecomp.com/"><b>Central Coast Wine Competition</b></a> is the largest wine evaluation event that recognizes wines produced exclusively from the wine producing regions of California's Central Coast. Few get the opportunity to judge the dozens of regional, statewide, national and international wine competitions that take place annually. So it was with great surprise that I received an email a couple months ago from Chief Judge Bob Foster inviting me to participate in the Central Coast Wine Competition as a guest judge. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbgrg2N-6IxbG2_v7diS7jwx7Pydt7fX9BXPkKXl7swce7uYgzoY5io3g6Q7X5aicFnZgCN9BnR0nZ9iRZMsBSC0wicji01KilhuzO4f0_HI23tP-uA-QUP1KMpMgYLYWPnAiW76Id8gg/s1600/DSC_0106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbgrg2N-6IxbG2_v7diS7jwx7Pydt7fX9BXPkKXl7swce7uYgzoY5io3g6Q7X5aicFnZgCN9BnR0nZ9iRZMsBSC0wicji01KilhuzO4f0_HI23tP-uA-QUP1KMpMgYLYWPnAiW76Id8gg/s200/DSC_0106.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Wine competitions enable wineries to submit their wines to a reputable competition where a panel judges score the wines blindly and award various medals (i.e. Sweepstakes Winner, Best of Class, Gold, Silver and Bronze). Wineries pin their hopes of winning gold on the palates of a small panel of judges. On the upside, wineries can benefit from the marketing potential of winning a Gold Medal or Best of Class for their wines from a notable wine competition. These wines are marketed to consumers as "award winning wines" through various marketing materials, tasting notes and social media. On the downside, a winery may submit all of their wines and receive no medals. Yet, small wineries have an incentive to submit their wines in the competition in order to create buzz among consumers and critics if their wines are selected as premier wines in their class.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAIV14cIQtR-K9F8aVrMRPx3z5n9pwKjkbnSM1sr4KmYjFN4gm67O-RgazjTV74S0VNG7eEvkfRcF09B80MF9OpkPcFUWvu5jGK-Y2OFd3SCP92FVM0Xd4B00NvQGmubzXpCdsFwt2oAM/s1600/DSC_0057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAIV14cIQtR-K9F8aVrMRPx3z5n9pwKjkbnSM1sr4KmYjFN4gm67O-RgazjTV74S0VNG7eEvkfRcF09B80MF9OpkPcFUWvu5jGK-Y2OFd3SCP92FVM0Xd4B00NvQGmubzXpCdsFwt2oAM/s200/DSC_0057.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>At the Central Coast Wine Competition, judges were divided into five panels of 3-4 panelists plus a guest judge. Our panel featured three judges with years of experience judging many prestigious wine competitions. The panel was responsible for judging 120 wines in the following wine classes: Zinfandel, Syrah Based Blends, Grenache Based Blends, Sangiovese Based Blends, Pink, Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio, No Oak Chardonnay, Vioginer and Gewurztraminer. Each wine was identified by an entry number to reference on the final judging sheet. Before the judges started with their flight, one judge on our panel swirled and smelled each pour to determine if any wines were corked and required a re-pour. Our panel encountered one or more corked/flawed wines in almost each flight.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7MK2XTzSxXv2k4_5K54ccIa86pfxF1_yttz74j-EJTP6rA-rPS9McAzk7O0aemW2FdhMnHMhVVdPkXNMV7ISBSUFD3GEBKgqzFFy0rLFVgUKwiwyzm7e7bTtVR0WdBn2EluSMw8ko1A0/s1600/DSC_0097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7MK2XTzSxXv2k4_5K54ccIa86pfxF1_yttz74j-EJTP6rA-rPS9McAzk7O0aemW2FdhMnHMhVVdPkXNMV7ISBSUFD3GEBKgqzFFy0rLFVgUKwiwyzm7e7bTtVR0WdBn2EluSMw8ko1A0/s200/DSC_0097.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>When the judging commenced, each judge completed their flight at a moderate pace with few revisits unless there was a disagreement within the panel about whether a particular wine exhibited certain qualities so as to shift one judge's individual award to the consensus position among the other members of the panel. When the judges are finished judging each wine, they will call out the wine number to tally the votes. Judges offered votes ranging from gold to no medal. So let's say one judge awarded a wine with a bronze medal, while the other two awarded the wine with silver medals. The group would award the wine a silver medal. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXIxlFFb1v_fHPonPiUHHPpzAZhwPn2ne2As2Dq7cWzlnJyZl0vpNs0PZKQeHffPSMrrnG_Rj22HRJtRZEixxwLijPyzPkUBRyKTlRblCe3gLnIeXddgtBGQ0Jbbv9R0Ju2C1w80OCenM/s1600/DSC_0073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXIxlFFb1v_fHPonPiUHHPpzAZhwPn2ne2As2Dq7cWzlnJyZl0vpNs0PZKQeHffPSMrrnG_Rj22HRJtRZEixxwLijPyzPkUBRyKTlRblCe3gLnIeXddgtBGQ0Jbbv9R0Ju2C1w80OCenM/s200/DSC_0073.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>When all three judges awarded different medals (i.e. gold, silver and bronze), the group would revisit the wine to determine if a judge would score the wine higher for the purposes of coming to consensus on a single medal. The judges would tradeoff on medals based on another judge's inclination to move from Bronze+ to Silver or Silver+ to Gold. Ultimately, the panel of judges focused not only on a criteria based on the positive varietal characteristics, but also on the interests of the consumer. While the judges were tallying their scores, I was keeping my own tally and comments on each wine to compare notes with each judge. Even though my recommendations did not factor into the group award, I found myself disagreeing with the individual and group awards in every class. In some cases, however, one judge would award one wine a gold medal while another would award the same wine no medal. This is the best example of how our individual palates and personal preferences play into the competition. When all is said and done, three to four judges decide which wines make the cut for the prestigious medals from the Central Coast Wine Competition - but they judge these wines blindly as opposed to other critical reviews. Still, judges can be influenced by one another based on their feedback during the flight tally.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdTNcEyNloOfO8744daAUlIoN3DgAl-FQA3sCLUZwR8QImH7fdysD4yKbAGcy4iyEBjmOSaex9DD0fWukC41ZWHf5oTLWQ5s3Fe9Xav3l9MF1PcIGrUf11_BoaC79LtbZL5xG6uWVn-jU/s1600/DSC_0168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdTNcEyNloOfO8744daAUlIoN3DgAl-FQA3sCLUZwR8QImH7fdysD4yKbAGcy4iyEBjmOSaex9DD0fWukC41ZWHf5oTLWQ5s3Fe9Xav3l9MF1PcIGrUf11_BoaC79LtbZL5xG6uWVn-jU/s200/DSC_0168.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>On the day after the competition, wineries were invited to attend the Industry Tasting at the Paso Robles Event Center to find out who won gold and to taste the broad selection of wines that were entered into the competition. The wines were divided into their classes on rows of tables, while all the gold medal winners were assembled on a separate table. With my list in hand, I tasted a few of the wines in the classes that our group was responsible for judging. In some instances, it was surprising to see what was or wasn't awarded a medal simply by label. It is quite remarkable how much of a difference it makes when you taste blind and have few if any details about the wine other than an entry number, vintage, varietal and blend. It would be far more interesting if some of the most notable wineries in the region entered their wines into these competitions or if someone threw in a few ringers. Would the judges award these 90+ point wines gold medals?<br />
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One final note: After perusing through recent scores for two wine competitions from this past week, it was intriguing to see that one particular wine received a gold medal in the San Francisco International Wine Competition and no medal in the Central Coast Wine Competition. What was so different about this wine for the panel of judges in each competition? It just goes to show that even the most refined palates can be the most discriminate. To find out the how your favorite wineries performed, go to the <a href="http://centralcoastwinecomp.com/"><b>Central Coast Wine Competition for the full results.</b></a><br />
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So what do you think?<br />
<ol><li>Do wine competitions provide any meaningful benefit to wineries in marketing their wines to consumers? </li>
<li>Although these competitions are judged blindly by a diverse panel of judges, how are the judges influenced by factors other than the label when awarding medals?</li>
<li>Is there more prestige or merit to judging a competition blindly versus a critical review from Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast, The Wine Advocate or International Wine Cellars?</li>
<li>What factors contribute to two panels of judges in two separate competitions awarding no medal and a gold medal for the same wine?</li>
</ol><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZZG3gvyZKuN9fC1ODY1x7VZ-i_qGgejxv4hIIqwhkoduj9udXQJGuZ1lkUZHKRe8ZBRDgh2G-t-kfIoCAaVKO8-WXpi796eEV7tAB_bS_aE5fQEEKkg0zHylUz3LTzsrM87h46cmFM5k/s1600/DSC_0108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZZG3gvyZKuN9fC1ODY1x7VZ-i_qGgejxv4hIIqwhkoduj9udXQJGuZ1lkUZHKRe8ZBRDgh2G-t-kfIoCAaVKO8-WXpi796eEV7tAB_bS_aE5fQEEKkg0zHylUz3LTzsrM87h46cmFM5k/s200/DSC_0108.JPG" width="200" /></a>I would like to thank Chief Judge, Bob Foster, Robin Nagele and all the other organizers and volunteers for giving me a unique opportunity to experience and participate in the Central Coast Wine Competition 2011. I would also like to thank my panel of judges - Robert Whitley, William Bloxsom-Carter and Ann Littlefield - for their insight and commentary on judging a wine competition. Check out some clips of the judging from this year's competition in the video below.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><object style="height: 349px; width: 560px;"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Yurj9jW2I44?version=3"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Yurj9jW2I44?version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="560" height="349"></object></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-39301354691123884102011-06-04T09:16:00.000-07:002011-06-04T09:16:48.101-07:00Rolling Out the Barrels in the Happiest Place in the USAI would like to think that any Wine Country destination is the "Happiest Place in the USA," but the good folks at <i><a href="http://travel.usatoday.com/destinations/story/2011/04/San-Luis-Obispo-Its-the-happiest-place-in-the-USA-/45900412/1"><b>USA Today</b></a></i> and <i><a href="http://www.oprah.com/oprahshow/Happiest-City-in-America-San-Luis-Obispo-Video"><b>The Oprah Winfrey Show</b></a></i> proclaimed the quaint Central Coast town of San Luis Obispo to be the number one place to visit and live in the nation. Who am I to disagree?!<br />
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From June 23-26, 2011, the <b><a href="http://slowine.com/cm/Home.html">San Luis Obispo Vintners Association</a></b> will host the 21st Annual Roll Out the Barrels Weekend in SLO Wine Country, which is comprised of three viticultural areas: the Edna Valley, Arroyo Grande Valley and the Avila Valley. There are approximately two dozen wineries in the region that hand-craft bottlings of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, Zinfandel and other varietals. These wineries will swing their doors open and roll out the barrels for a weekend of wine, food and friends.<br />
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There is a unbridled charm associated with this historic and growing wine enclave in the Central Coast. From the shoreline of the Pacific Ocean to the Edna Valley, there are countless award-winning wineries, restaurants and activities that feed the indulgence to "Savor the SLO Life."<br />
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However you plan your itinerary for the 21st Annual Roll Out the Barrels Weekend, be sure to visit these wineries from the recent article at Central Coast Uncorked, <i><b><a href="http://centralcoastuncorked.blogspot.com/2011/01/savoring-slo-life-in-edna-valley.html">Savoring the SLO Life in the Edna Valley</a></b></i>. Enjoy the weekend in San Luis Obispo! Cheers!<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1952106462">21st Annual Roll Out the Barrels Weekend</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1952106462">June 23-26, 2011</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://slowine.com/cm/Home.html">SLO Wine Country</a> <a href="http://slowine.com/cm/wineries_vineyards/wine_tasting_map.html">(Map)</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://slowine.com/cm/events/Barrels%20in%20the%20Plaza%20Details!.html">June 23 - Barrels in the Plaza ($30)</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://slowine.com/cm/events/Roll%20Out%20The%20Barrels%20-%20Friday%20Night%20Winery%20Dinners.html">June 24 - Friday Night Dinners and Social Events</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://slowine.com/cm/events/Roll%20Out%20The%20Barrels%20-%20Passport%20by%20Winery%20Details.html">June 25-26 - Saturday and Sunday Passport to SLO Wine Country</a></b><br />
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<b><i>The San Luis Obispo Vintners Association produced this video to highlight the festivities at the upcoming Roll Out the Barrels Weekend in SLO Wine Country.</i></b><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/LWFsuf0sCZY" width="560"></iframe></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-52272677644542806552011-05-30T21:47:00.000-07:002011-06-01T08:21:41.023-07:00Exploring the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail<b><a href="http://www.foxencanyonwinetrail.com/">The Foxen Canyon Wine Trail</a></b> features over a dozen wineries along a scenic and winding roadway stretching from Los Olivos to Santa Maria. Along the Trail, Santa Barbara County wine enthusiasts can enjoy a diverse selection of award-winning Rhône, Bordeaux and Burgundy varietal wines from cool and warm climate vineyards. <br />
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From the south, the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail winds through oak-studded hillsides and canyons before emerging in the Santa Maria Valley and the sweeping vistas of the Santa Maria Bench, which includes some of the largest vineyards in Santa Barbara County, as well as the sprawling agricultural fields that produce a range of fruits and vegetables. In the south, daily temperatures can range from the upper 90s during peak summer months to the low 50s in the evening. In the north, daily temperatures can average 64 degrees due to the onshore flow that sweeps in from the Pacific Ocean eastward into the Santa Maria Valley. <br />
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The Foxen Canyon Wine Trail is divided between the Santa Maria Valley AVA and the Santa Ynez Valley AVA and features many prominent vineyards, including Rodney's Vineyard, Demetria Estate Vineyard, Tinaquaic Vineyard, Riverbench Vineyards, Dierberg Vineyard, Bien Nacido Vineyards, Julia's Vineyard and Colson Canyon Vineyard, among others.<br />
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From an area once dotted by historic land grants, the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail has evolved into a renowned wine producing region between the bucolic town of Los Olivos and the tract home developments and shopping centers in Santa Maria. Visitors will be treated to some exceptional Rhône and Burgundy varietal wines at several wineries along the wine trail, including Andrew Murray, Demetria, Foxen, Riverbench Kenneth Volk and Costa de Oro, as well as contrasting climates and vistas at the northern and southern end of the wine trail.<br />
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Since there are no restaurants or markets along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, you should consider putting together a delectable spread for a picnic in the vineyard, especially if you want to maximize your tour of Los Olivos and the Santa Maria Valley. There are a few places in Los Olivos where you can pick up a sandwich and other sides before hitting the wine trail, including <b><a href="http://www.paninorestaurants.com/locations.html#losolivos">Panino</a></b> and <a href="http://www.losolivosgrocery.com/"><b>Los Olivos Grocery</b></a>.<br />
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Visitors to Santa Barbara County should dedicate a day of wine tasting along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail. The wine region is accessible from the north in Santa Maria on E. Betteravia Road and the 101 Freeway and the south from either Highway 154 and Zaca Station Road or Highway 154 and Foxen Canyon Road, closer to the town of Los Olivos. <br />
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<b><i>The Last Word: Remember to "Share the Road" with bicyclists, tractors and wildlife on the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail and taste responsibly!</i></b><br />
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<b><u>FOXEN CANYON WINE TRAIL</u></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.firestonewine.com/">Firestone Vineyard</a></b><br />
5000 Zaca Station Road, Los Olivos (805) 688-3940<br />
Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10<br />
Wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Riesling<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.curtiswinery.com/">Curtis Winery</a></b><br />
5249 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos (805) 686-8999<br />
Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10<br />
Wines: Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Viognier, Roussanne, Rhône blends<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.andrewmurrayvineyards.com/">Andrew Murray Vineyards</a></b><br />
5095 Zaca Station Road, Los Olivos (entrance to Firestone Vineyard) (805) 686-9604<br />
Saturday and Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.<br />
Wines: Syrah, Grenache, Rhône blends<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.koehlerwinery.com/home/content.cfm">Koehler Winery</a></b><br />
5360 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos (805) 693-8384<br />
Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10<br />
Wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Grenache, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Rhône blends<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.fessparkerwines.com/">Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard</a></b><br />
6200 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos (805) 688-1545<br />
Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10<br />
Wines: Syrah, Pinot Noir, Viognier, Chardonnay, Riesling<br />
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<b><a href="http://demetriaestate.com/">Demetria Estate</a></b><br />
6701 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos (805) 686-2345<br />
Tasting by appointment only<br />
Wines: Syrah, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Rhône blends<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.zacamesa.com/">Zaca Mesa Winery & Vineyards</a></b><br />
6905 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos (805) 688-9339<br />
Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10<br />
Wines: Syrah, Chardonnay, Viognier, Roussanne, Rhône blends<br />
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<b><a href="http://treshermanaswinery.com/">Tres Hermanas Winery & Vineyard</a></b><br />
9660 Foxen Canyon Road, Santa Maria (805) 937-8451<br />
Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10<br />
Wines: Bordeaux and Rhône varietal wines and blends<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.foxenvineyard.com/">Foxen Winery</a></b><br />
7600 Foxen Canyon Road (new winery), Santa Maria (805) 937-4251<br />
7200 Foxen Canyon Road (the shack), Santa Maria (805) 937-4251<br />
Open daily 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10-$12<br />
Wines: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Bordeaux and Italian varietal wines<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.ranchosisquoc.com/">Rancho Sisquoc Winery</a></b><br />
6600 Foxen Canyon Road, Santa Maria (805) 934-4332<br />
Mon-Thurs, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Fri-Sun, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tasting Fee: $8<br />
Wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Riesling, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Bordeaux varietal wines<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.riverbench.com/">Riverbench Vineyard & Winery</a></b><br />
6020 Foxen Canyon Road, Santa Maria (805) 937-8340<br />
Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10<br />
Wines: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.volkwines.com/">Kenneth Volk Vineyards</a></b><br />
5230 Tepusquet Road, Santa Maria (805) 938-7896<br />
Open daily 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.<br />
Wines: Burgundy, Bordeaux and Rhône varietal wines and "Heirloom" wines<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.cambriawines.com/">Cambria Winery</a></b><br />
5475 Chardonnay Lane, Santa Maria (805) 938-7318<br />
Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.<br />
Wines: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Viognier, Syrah<br />
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<b><a href="http://cottonwoodcanyon.com/">Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard & Winery</a></b><br />
3940 Dominion Road, Santa Maria (805) 937-8418<br />
Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.<br />
Wines: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Bordeaux blends<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.cdowinery.com/">Costa de Oro Winery</a></b><br />
1331 S. Nicholson Avenue, Santa Maria (805) 922-1468<br />
Open daily 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tasting Fee: $7-$10<br />
Wines: Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon<br />
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<b><u>FOR MORE INFORMATION</u></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.foxencanyonwinetrail.com/">Foxen Canyon Wine Trail Association</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.santamariavalleywinecountry.com/">Santa Maria Valley Wine Country Association</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://sbcountywines.com/">Santa Barbara County Vintners' Association</a></b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Foxen Canyon Wine Trail</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPEAeOnszkj1dDmmrw3KGBDXo55DaJeiCkCDKxQQ6Ib2iBzcUP_tRt2Yo6K734v-UXUNgGzJcrHXUuue3s_ri3IAn1mYwMOpB8WHOaTL4Hfoa6cKfs8Jl37y5IyeZwr5LXeqJfuDUTXhQ/s1600/DSC_0166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPEAeOnszkj1dDmmrw3KGBDXo55DaJeiCkCDKxQQ6Ib2iBzcUP_tRt2Yo6K734v-UXUNgGzJcrHXUuue3s_ri3IAn1mYwMOpB8WHOaTL4Hfoa6cKfs8Jl37y5IyeZwr5LXeqJfuDUTXhQ/s400/DSC_0166.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Santa Maria Valley</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRWssVmL7uptpxfeTnly8Xt1oSs0uMauqrlgpjWzv10q-IiW_ANT5N0zUgpvuekFpL4ZqRcqm2zemws_Ro8_CBm-6B6-_WpXiY8NnOoud8OP89Ct1z3jaWbJGVxemEeFEb5Us6f416vbo/s1600/DSC_0237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRWssVmL7uptpxfeTnly8Xt1oSs0uMauqrlgpjWzv10q-IiW_ANT5N0zUgpvuekFpL4ZqRcqm2zemws_Ro8_CBm-6B6-_WpXiY8NnOoud8OP89Ct1z3jaWbJGVxemEeFEb5Us6f416vbo/s400/DSC_0237.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Overlooking Zaca Station Road</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-89474655982934857162011-05-08T09:03:00.000-07:002011-05-10T19:34:38.577-07:00In the Rhône at Hospice du Rhône 2011Could you ask for any more perfect wine weather?! From April 28-30, Rhône fans from distances close and far converged on the Paso Robles Event Center to participate in the "world's largest international celebration of Rhone variety wines" - <a href="http://www.hospicedurhone.org/"><b>Hospice du Rhône</b></a>. For three days, hundreds of Rhône wine enthusiasts experienced a variety of seminars, tastings and offline events inspired by Rhône varietal wines produced by the world's most renowned wineries and winemakers.<br />
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Every year, people from across the world embark on a pilgrimage to various sites of religious importance. The same can be said about Hospice du Rhône for those people who are inspired by the twenty-two Rhône varieties. It should be no surprise then that Hospice du Rhône is one of the most iconic wine tasting events in the world.<br />
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In 2011, Hospice du Rhône featured an à la carte offering of wine seminars with highly acclaimed winemakers, as well as the Friday Soiree. The Friday Rhône Rendezvous Tasting and Saturday Grand Tasting provided the backdrop for these world-class wine producers to share new and old vintages of their award-winning wines. HdR also released a helpful <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id365241853"><b>app</b></a> to add tasting notes and share tweets during the seminars and tastings.<br />
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I was fortunate enough this year to participate in the Saturday Grand Tasting. For three hours, hundreds of Rhônely Hearts tipped their glasses for a pour of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Viognier, Roussanne and other Rhône varietal wines and blends. Even three hours wasn't long enough to savor a fraction of the hundreds of wines being poured by the some of the most talented winemakers in the world.<br />
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Because interest in Rhône varietal wines remains a niche market, it is going to take more time and education to highlight the remarkable expressions of the Rhône wines being produced by Central Coast wineries, as well those from Northern California. There were also some superb French Rhône producers whose wines continue to garner acclaim by the world's leading wine critics and regular wine drinkers.<br />
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Stay tuned for information about other HdR events later this year such as <a href="http://www.hospicedurhone.org/happenings/syrah-day.php"><b>#Syrah Day</b></a> and <a href="http://www.hospicedurhone.org/happenings/grenache-day.php"><b>#Grenache Day</b></a>, as well as next year's theme and the schedule for <b><a href="http://www.hospicedurhone.org/index.php">Hospice du Rhône 2012 (April 26-28)</a></b>. You won't want to miss this Rhônetastic event!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Justin Smith, Saxum</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Ecluse Wines</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Alta Colina Vineyard & Winery</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwY3h6bCp_sDsrrXbIli-f7M5Ej1cGwVNKlNVCDrj77bZ1O_-qzft4q7Tj6htmZErlMsoZFx-fcVY8mJFiQoBHVcZsW0A5EzZeh8UD20pWFtDOiCCcizQ-EXOvGmwAhPuPc9mt8E9ANcE/s1600/IMG_2263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwY3h6bCp_sDsrrXbIli-f7M5Ej1cGwVNKlNVCDrj77bZ1O_-qzft4q7Tj6htmZErlMsoZFx-fcVY8mJFiQoBHVcZsW0A5EzZeh8UD20pWFtDOiCCcizQ-EXOvGmwAhPuPc9mt8E9ANcE/s400/IMG_2263.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Full of Life Flatbread, Los Alamos, CA</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-20555513146529897712011-05-04T07:29:00.000-07:002011-09-07T11:40:45.574-07:00"In the Ghetto"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>"In the Ghetto"</i> was made famous by Elvis Presley in 1969. Nearly thirty years later, Rick Longoria moved his winery operation to an industrial complex at the eastern edge of Lompoc (pronounced <i>"Lom-Poke"</i>), which years later became affectionately known as the "<b><a href="http://www.lompocghetto.com/">Lompoc Wine Ghetto</a></b>."<br />
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Neatly tucked behind the Home Depot and Lompoc Valley Medical Center at the corner of Ocean Avenue and Highway 1 lies a nondescript collection of single-story, corrugated metal buildings that has been transformed into a growing wine destination in Santa Barbara County. There's no shortage of wineries and wine tasting rooms in this renowned grape growing and wine producing region in California's Central Coast. On the flip side, you have to travel miles from one winery to another in order to experience the depth of wines being produced throughout Santa Barbara County. So, what if you could park your car and taste award-winning wines from a dozen wineries all within walking distance? <br />
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Pinot Noir. Chardonnay. Syrah. Viognier. It's all here at the Lompoc Wine Ghetto. For years, many Sta. Rita Hills wineries quietly crafted their wines with little fanfare in this industrial complex at the western edge of the Sta. Rita Hills in the historic agricultural town of Lompoc. With the surge of interest in Santa Barbara County wines, wineries have raced to open new tasting rooms in their production facilities to pour their highly acclaimed wines for Central Coast wine enthusiasts. Compared to the ornate wineries and tasting rooms lining Highway 246 and other major wine trails, the Lompoc Wine Ghetto is the equivalent of a dive bar "where everyone knows your name" and the places feels like a throwback to the past when the wine region was in its infancy. <br />
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Recently, the <b><a href="http://www.lompocghetto.com/">Lompoc Wine Ghetto</a></b> launched a new website and <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lompoc-Wine-Ghetto/167415173272619">Facebook page</a></b> to promote the dozen wineries that pour award-winning wines from Santa Barbara County. The Lompoc Wine Ghetto has also produced a helpful <b><a href="http://www.lompocghetto.com/map.pdf">map</a></b> to help guide visitors through the maze of tasting rooms. There are future plans to bring eateries to the Ghetto since there are few if any restaurants in the area. With the newfound interest in the Lompoc Wine Ghetto, as well as the recent launching of multiple online and social media tools to promote this newly discovered wine destination, it appears that the rising stars in Santa Barbara Wine Country are making a name for themselves <i>"In the Ghetto."</i><br />
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<b><u>GHETTO WINERIES</u></b><br />
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<b><u></u></b><b><a href="http://ampeloscellars.com/">Ampelos Cellars</a></b><br />
<i>312 N. 9th Street, Lompoc. (805) 736-9957</i><br />
<i>Thursday-Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10</i><br />
<i>Wines: Pinot Noir, Syrah, Rhône blends</i><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.eveninglandvineyards.com/">Evening Land Vineyard</a></b><br />
<i>1712-C Industrial Way, Lompoc. (805) 736-9656</i><br />
<i>Friday-Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10</i><br />
<i>Wines: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir</i><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.fiddleheadcellars.com/">Fiddlehead Cellars</a></b><br />
<i>1597 E. Chestnut Avenue, Lompoc. (805) 742-0204</i><br />
<i>Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. </i><br />
<i>Wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir</i><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.flyinggoatcellars.com/">Flying Goat Cellars</a></b><br />
<i>1520 E. Chestnut Court, Unit A, Lompoc. (805) 736-9032</i><br />
<i>Thursday-Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10</i><br />
<i>Wines: Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir</i><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.jalamawines.com/">Jalama Wines/Joseph Blair</a></b><br />
<i>308 N. 9th Street, Unit C, Lompoc. (805) 735-8937</i><br />
<i>Friday-Sunday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10</i><br />
<i>Wines: Pinot Noir, Syrah, Rhône blends</i><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.lavievineyards.com/">La Vie Vineyards</a></b><br />
<i>308 N. 9th Street, Unit D, Lompoc. (805) 291-2111</i><br />
<i>Friday-Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.</i><br />
<i>Wines: Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.longoriawine.com/"><b>Longoria Wines</b></a><br />
<i>1700 Industrial Way, Unit A, Lompoc. (805) 688-0305</i><br />
<i>Saturday-Sunday, 11:00 a..m. to 4:30 p.m.<b> </b>Tasting Fee: $10-$15</i><i> </i><br />
<i>Wines: Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Albarino, Tempranillo</i><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.loringwinecompany.com/">Loring Wine Company</a></b><br />
<i>1591 E. Chestnut Avenue, Lompoc. (805) 742-0478</i><br />
<i>Friday-Sunday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10</i><br />
<i>Wines: Pinot Noir</i><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.newvineland.com/">New Vineland/Piedrasassi</a></b><br />
<i>1501 E. Chestnut Avenue, Lompoc. (805) 736-6784</i><br />
<i>Friday-Sunday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10</i><br />
<i>Wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Syrah</i><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://palminawines.com/">Palmina</a></b><br />
<i>1520 E. Chestnut Court, Lompoc. (805) 735-2030</i><br />
<i>Thursday-Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10</i><br />
<i>Wines: Italian varietals</i><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.samsarawine.com/">Samsara</a></b><br />
<i>1500 E. Chestnut Court, Unit A, Lompoc. (805) 331-2292</i><br />
<i>Friday-Sunday, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10</i><br />
<i>Wines: Pinot Noir, Syrah</i><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.tasteofstaritahills.com/">Taste of Sta. Rita Hills</a></b><br />
<i>1505 E. Chestnut Avenue, Lompoc. (805) 735-8774</i><br />
<i>Thursday-Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.</i><br />
<i>Wines: Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir</i><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://zotovichcellars.com/cm/Home.html">Zotovich Cellars</a></b><br />
<i>1500 East Chestnut Court, Suite D, Lompoc. (805) 736-</i><i>1600</i><br />
<i>Thursday-Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10</i><br />
<i>Wines: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Viognier</i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Zotovich Cellars</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYU2D5r7A4EmrPHi7vDMSRNGxkFHBUMLt2_RScl3pF8c-j-yvrt8IlGp_PClVdVFqWl4As0313199ndRlBxactf8NSKKsZJ2zMgU8zBZGrWJSQ1RlWcca5vxiDASbn1yy6weGBky_Y5_8/s1600/IMG_2090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYU2D5r7A4EmrPHi7vDMSRNGxkFHBUMLt2_RScl3pF8c-j-yvrt8IlGp_PClVdVFqWl4As0313199ndRlBxactf8NSKKsZJ2zMgU8zBZGrWJSQ1RlWcca5vxiDASbn1yy6weGBky_Y5_8/s400/IMG_2090.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Jalama Wines</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW63nYdpgyUf3bDMzByu8IksScw25wPIteiD5sMviyFBMqHbecpdDyyNpWX-TYwHsKEurNIqCTLOkimTrfp3h9heKk995IYV5wbLYnTs8FzrLapLM_HrbHJa0cwccSg3-EooTzRVvb48w/s1600/IMG_2097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW63nYdpgyUf3bDMzByu8IksScw25wPIteiD5sMviyFBMqHbecpdDyyNpWX-TYwHsKEurNIqCTLOkimTrfp3h9heKk995IYV5wbLYnTs8FzrLapLM_HrbHJa0cwccSg3-EooTzRVvb48w/s400/IMG_2097.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Ampelos Cellars</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwkj_MX9Yhyay4Y5taJIkQucy08xMgfSYsfS-mEIkf5OLsyoumrQLXrllKaFyU0xBIm0ok-sTxtfkpFEH17CrP0mMOnavl8M7pLylLEJKiRIxDROSnyyUDiE4Y0HlfHA8550bg22uV-zg/s1600/IMG_2109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwkj_MX9Yhyay4Y5taJIkQucy08xMgfSYsfS-mEIkf5OLsyoumrQLXrllKaFyU0xBIm0ok-sTxtfkpFEH17CrP0mMOnavl8M7pLylLEJKiRIxDROSnyyUDiE4Y0HlfHA8550bg22uV-zg/s400/IMG_2109.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>New Vineland/Piedrasassi</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq0vXfFFc3HlSfvfA0iY8U3-uNfHXU0lJ8204F5B02s4PyJoaiY08u0-Mou-fGKFf_t0fQEyYWuWIfFZ6n9gwHwzpmUb9WvRwj9cPfGgF_A1990DcujVoehG3-si7Hz3aHRxypV9mFOUw/s1600/IMG_1658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq0vXfFFc3HlSfvfA0iY8U3-uNfHXU0lJ8204F5B02s4PyJoaiY08u0-Mou-fGKFf_t0fQEyYWuWIfFZ6n9gwHwzpmUb9WvRwj9cPfGgF_A1990DcujVoehG3-si7Hz3aHRxypV9mFOUw/s400/IMG_1658.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Flying Goat Cellars</b></td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1Lompoc, CA, USA34.642504341653641 -120.4387148257812334.604814341653643 -120.48258732578124 34.680194341653639 -120.39484232578123tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-35661665794416300072011-04-24T12:27:00.000-07:002011-05-06T23:59:35.009-07:00Bottling Day 2011, Jaffurs Wine Cellars<div>Under relatively clear skies and with a cool ocean breeze to their backs, the team at <b><a href="http://jaffurswine.com/index.html">Jaffurs Wine Cellars</a></b>, along with dedicated wine club members and volunteers, got to work bottling hundreds of cases of Santa Barbara County Syrah, Grenache and Pinot Noir. <br />
<br />
The Mission Bottling truck was set up in the driveway of the winery while volunteers were busy loading and packaging thousands of bottles of Jaffurs' reserve wines, including the 2009 vintage of the widely popular and award-winning Upslope, Thompson Vineyard Syrah, Bien Nacido Vineyard Syrah, Ampelos Vineyard Syrah and Santa Barbara County Grenache, as well as a Jaffurs side project from Dave Yates called "Mistress," which is exclusively Pinot Noir from Santa Barbara County.<br />
<br />
Jaffurs Wine Cellars is one of the most acclaimed wineries and Rhône varietal wine producers in Santa Barbara County. Under the helm of Craig Jaffurs, Dave Yates and Matt Brady, Jaffurs Wine Cellars continues to impress wine critics, wine enthusiasts and wine novices with their handcrafted wines using grapes from the finest vineyards in Santa Barbara County including Ampelos Vineyard, Thompson Vineyard, Bien Nacido Vineyard, and Larner Vineyard. Jaffurs produces a range of single-varietal Rhône wines such as Viognier, Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Grenache and Mourvèdre.<br />
<br />
Check out the video below for all the action that goes into bottling the 2009 vintage. Thanks to Craig, Dave, and Matt for allowing me to film and photograph all the activities and to Phil C. for giving me a good excuse to visit Downtown Santa Barbara. Cheers!<br />
<br />
<b><u>IF YOU GO</u></b><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://jaffurswine.com/">Jaffurs Wine Cellars</a></b><br />
<a href="http://jaffurswine.com/"></a>819 E. Montecito St., Santa Barbara <i>(west of N. Milpas St.)</i><br />
(805) 962-7003<br />
Friday-Monday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. <i>(Open daily during summer months)</i>. Tasting Fee: $10<br />
Facebook:<b> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/jaffurs">Jaffurs Wine Cellars</a></b><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='520' height='366' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/kHELb1xrnGI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdN6VmxsO8bkcy0bOXU_B8SgDKLhpy_SkBWYnXl7S0dhh3NEoYTc9nlC8IMUi3N7ZdGDmPuuodiBm97kj0ozjtFhuijOq3nMtsY-uNS6c0CT-IOSg0MIVl4AJGXHDfXFvpeQD95dIzbaM/s1600/IMG_2165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdN6VmxsO8bkcy0bOXU_B8SgDKLhpy_SkBWYnXl7S0dhh3NEoYTc9nlC8IMUi3N7ZdGDmPuuodiBm97kj0ozjtFhuijOq3nMtsY-uNS6c0CT-IOSg0MIVl4AJGXHDfXFvpeQD95dIzbaM/s400/IMG_2165.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dave Yates loading bottles</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw7qPDo1Friv9k9s7JWGf3_tswvdkV35GlVQcg6GL9I05Jb7gywHtdP81tw0EG3bGqr6ub1W0r1xIb1sEel5EL0a2dUCVAWgo-65TrIrN-USUwhRkAy30U0kg1C8heXn1lKIN_6zMyyCE/s1600/IMG_2237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw7qPDo1Friv9k9s7JWGf3_tswvdkV35GlVQcg6GL9I05Jb7gywHtdP81tw0EG3bGqr6ub1W0r1xIb1sEel5EL0a2dUCVAWgo-65TrIrN-USUwhRkAy30U0kg1C8heXn1lKIN_6zMyyCE/s400/IMG_2237.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bottles lining up to be filled with the '09 Grenache</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKaUUYXwsEqw0RRvh4mmciTqavE5H22Ava_voUTZsEh3KloNcceqvT_fJZHmE05FltMjQ3IltptqvO-XXUnWnOTp0iYciYKxIjbV2ojjHijilKM60KGMmcvC6Gc9_I6-hVyEWGfK3Z05Y/s1600/IMG_2175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKaUUYXwsEqw0RRvh4mmciTqavE5H22Ava_voUTZsEh3KloNcceqvT_fJZHmE05FltMjQ3IltptqvO-XXUnWnOTp0iYciYKxIjbV2ojjHijilKM60KGMmcvC6Gc9_I6-hVyEWGfK3Z05Y/s400/IMG_2175.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jaffurs' volunteers hustling to load and package bottles</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqa2k49xMSfrk5D-apQ34zcSFCuDuJOWJ7Ag4fM9m3DTEsz8bh0W6luzG9pB4yAmo3I79f7H8C-lGW87JC5tVGz-QRG7QXy6dEIp-O317EdcI7Ktffg-uWkUcGI84XWzMYmMl2-n0dr7w/s1600/IMG_2197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqa2k49xMSfrk5D-apQ34zcSFCuDuJOWJ7Ag4fM9m3DTEsz8bh0W6luzG9pB4yAmo3I79f7H8C-lGW87JC5tVGz-QRG7QXy6dEIp-O317EdcI7Ktffg-uWkUcGI84XWzMYmMl2-n0dr7w/s400/IMG_2197.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matt Brady (left) and Craig Jaffurs (right) sampling the '09 Grenache</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqxEqEwPPuPZcAUZWcEHpRZe01OKkGvYlfyDLXy4EaEXB3y0o8CYR1nlxAK6DLbkYr0JNJNAjJBshnGpzTFNLIliOOAblEn3ikZNp7GKLc9IRZ0hmWWpvvjwR2wrFFWOvoFRI1JznqJdw/s1600/IMG_2143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqxEqEwPPuPZcAUZWcEHpRZe01OKkGvYlfyDLXy4EaEXB3y0o8CYR1nlxAK6DLbkYr0JNJNAjJBshnGpzTFNLIliOOAblEn3ikZNp7GKLc9IRZ0hmWWpvvjwR2wrFFWOvoFRI1JznqJdw/s400/IMG_2143.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'09 Thompson Vineyard Syrah on the bottling line</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-19554379132691326082011-04-19T20:09:00.000-07:002011-04-21T22:28:36.438-07:00Ultimate Paso Robles Boys WeekendMove over ladies - Paso Robles is becoming the ultimate destination for the "Wine Country Mancation." Once thought of as an exclusive weekend getaway for girlfriends and wives or just the ladies, Paso Robles offers a relaxing destination for the boys to enjoy superbly handcrafted wines, explore the region's prized vineyards and learn firsthand about the winemaking process from famed winemakers. <br />
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Located over 3 hours from Los Angeles and San Francisco, Paso Robles is producing world-class, award-winning wines and serving up some of the finest cuisine in the Central Coast, while maintaining the quaint and charming appeal that is attracting visitors from across California and the country. From the mule deer and wild turkeys on the rural roads of the Westside to the sprawling vineyards of the Eastside, Paso Robles provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable experience of award-winning wines and farm-to-table cuisine.<br />
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With recent headlines pronouncing Paso Robles as one the premier grape growing and wine producing regions in the world, wine enthusiasts are trekking to this bucolic town to savor California's Central Coast. Whether its hitting the wine trail, teeing off at Hunter Ranch Golf Course, checking out the Paso Robles Classic Car Weekend show or enjoying a Morrocan braised lamb shank at Villa Creek, Paso Robles is offering everything for the ultimate boys weekend without the Vegas hangover. Roll the windows down, turn the radio up, and cruise the wine country trail. <br />
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Helpful Tips:<br />
(1) Create an itinerary in advance but don't hesitate to deviate from the beaten path<br />
(2) Bring water and snacks; there isn't much out there on the wine trail<br />
(3) Call or email the wineries ahead of time if you have a large group<br />
(4) Arrange for a vineyard tour and barrel sampling<br />
(5) It's a wine tasting - not a wine drinking contest. Use the spittoon<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnK7QcjLI8NlNshXV0Tta2IqhIXWwcbsazc0Hy3yeEcMPvsWKp_KcFOc51o3SogHgCP_Ev0zSoZr0ybA_YyLCm1X0_c4DEFJCiQacCm958q7M0fqpu5bFrVsJu_BIHUzIOGa7AbFA3boA/s1600/IMG_2049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnK7QcjLI8NlNshXV0Tta2IqhIXWwcbsazc0Hy3yeEcMPvsWKp_KcFOc51o3SogHgCP_Ev0zSoZr0ybA_YyLCm1X0_c4DEFJCiQacCm958q7M0fqpu5bFrVsJu_BIHUzIOGa7AbFA3boA/s400/IMG_2049.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bud Break, Alta Colina Vineyard, Westside Paso Robles</td></tr>
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<b><u>WHERE TO TASTE</u></b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://altacolinawine.com/"><b>Alta Colina Vineyard & Winery</b></a><br />
If you want to start or end your wine tasting trip on a high note, then plan on stopping by Alta Colina Vineyard & Winery on Adelaide Road in Westside Paso Robles. The tasting room is located at Villicana Winery on the second floor above the winery. The vineyard entrance lies yards west of the winery and offers stunning views of the surrounding hillsides and valleys. Alta Colina produces superbly crafted single-varietal and Rhône blends including Claudia Cuvee, 12 O'Clock High, GSM, Toasted Slope Syrah, Old 900 Syrah and Ann's Petite Sirah.<br />
<i>2725 Adelaide Road, Paso Robles. </i> <i>(805) 227-4191</i><br />
<i>Open Thursday-Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tasting Fee: $5</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://anglimwinery.com/anglimwinery.php"><b>Anglim Winery</b></a><br />
Located at the historic train depot in Downtown Paso Robles, Anglim Winery pours a range of Rhône, Burgundy and Bordeaux single-varietal and blend wines. The diverse selection of wines are sure to please even the most discriminating palate.<br />
<i>740 Pine Street, Paso Robles. (805) 227-6813</i><br />
<i>Open Thursday-Monday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10-$15</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.calizawinery.com/"><b>Caliza Winery</b></a><br />
Caliza Winery is surrounded by some of the most prominent vineyards in Westside Paso Robles - Stephan Vineyards (L'Aventure Winery), Booker Vineyards and Torrin Vineyards. Winemaker Carl Bowker is making a name for himself in the Central Coast with award-winning Rhône varietal wines, including Azimuth and Kissin' Cousins. <br />
<i>2570 Anderson Road, Paso Robles. (805) 237-1480</i><br />
<i>Open Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://eclusewines.com/"><b>Ecluse Wines</b></a><br />
Ecluse Wines is one of two Paso Robles wineries that produced the top winning red wine from the 2011 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Located on Kiler Canyon Road close but far enough from Downtown Paso Robles, Ecluse Wines is producing some of the most well-rounded and highly acclaimed Bordeaux and Rhône varietal wines in the region, including the Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Improv, Syrah and Rendition.<br />
<i>1520 Kiler Canyon Road, Paso Robles. (805) 238-4998</i><br />
<i>Open Friday-Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://thacherwinery.com/"><b>Thacher Winery</b></a><br />
Located on scenic Vineyard Drive in the heart of Westside Paso Robles, Thacher Winery shared the 2011 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition Red Sweepstakes award for their 2008 Triumvirate Reserve Zinfandel. Thacher is a great place for the boys to unwind in between wineries while taking in the magnificent landscape. <br />
<i>8355 Vineyard Drive, Paso Robles. (805) 237-0087</i><br />
<i>Open Friday-Monday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tasting Fee: $7</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.villacreekwine.com/"><b>Villa Creek Cellars</b></a><br />
If you are looking for a detour from Vineyard Drive or a another route to Downtown Paso Robles, then head east on Peachy Canyon Road toward Villa Creek Cellars. Within a clearing lies the winery and tasting room, which offers a savory selection of Rhône varietal wines from the most acclaimed vineyards in Paso Robles. Favorites includes the Willow Creek Cuvée, Avenger and Mas de Maha. <br />
<i>5995 Peachy Canyon Road, Paso Robles. (805) 238-7145</i><br />
<i>Open Friday-Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tasting Fee: $10</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.vinesonthemarycrest.com/"><b>Vines on the Marycrest</b></a><br />
Vines on the Marycrest is the epitome of a family-owned winery. Victor and Jennifer Abascal produce food-friendly, blended wines at their winery set at the base of their steep estate vineyard. The wines are named for famous Rock and Jazz songs including Summertime, Heart of Glass, Round Midnight, Satin Doll, and My Generation.<br />
<i>5076 Mustard Creek Road, Paso Robles. (805) 237-0378</i><br />
<i>Open Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. </i><i>Tasting Fee: $5</i><br />
<br />
<b><u>WHERE TO EAT</u></b><br />
<br />
<b><u></u></b><b><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/amsterdam-coffee-house-paso-robles">Amsterdam Coffee House</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/amsterdam-coffee-house-paso-robles"></a></b>We all need a little caffeine jolt to begin another long journey on the wine trail, especially after an<br />
evening of exquisite food and wine.<br />
<i>725 13th Street, Downtown Paso Robles. (805) 239-7779</i><br />
<i></i><i>Open Monday-Friday, 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.</i><br />
<br />
<i></i><b><a href="http://www.farmstand46.com/">Farmstand 46</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.farmstand46.com/"></a></b>Farmstand 46 offers gourmet sandwiches-on-the-go. Since there are no other eateries on the Westside, it's a good idea to grab a sandwich for the road or drop in between wineries.<br />
<i>3750 Highway 46 W, Templeton (east of Vineyard Dr.)</i><br />
<i></i><i>Hours: Monday-Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thomashillorganics.com/home.html"><b>Thomas Hill Organics</b></a><br />
Owners Joe and Debbie Thomas and Chef Julie Simon are serving up an amazing farm-to-table menu that is constantly evolving and offering the clearest definition of "culinary creationism."<br />
<i>1305 Park Street, Downtown Paso Robles. (805) 226-5888</i><br />
<i>Hours: Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday, 11 a.m to 8 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.</i><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.villacreek.com/">Villa Creek Restaurant</a></b><br />
The Paso Robles in-crowd comes to Villa Creek for great cuisine and fine wines. Locals and out-of-towners assemble at the bar for small bites and libations, while the restaurant serves up tantalizing dishes like the Ahi Tuna Ceviche and Morrocan Braised Lamb Shank. There can be a fair share of eye candy to accompany dessert too. It is a boys weekend...<br />
<i>1144 Pine Street, Downtown Paso Robles. (805) 238-3000</i><br />
<i>Open 7 days a week for dinner, 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Bar/Tapas open daily at 4 p.m.</i><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.artisanpasorobles.com/">Artisan</a></b><br />
Artisan is bringing new meaning to Central Coast cuisine and fine dining. It's that damn good! They've got it covered: lunch, brunch and dinner, plus winemaker dinners and Monday Night Suppers. Even the boys should clean up a bit for a nice sit down dinner to savor every dish served up by Executive Chef/Owner, Chris Kobayashi. <br />
<i>1401 Park Street, Downtown Paso Robles. (805) 237-8084</i><br />
<i>Lunch, Brunch and Dinner</i><br />
<br />
<u><b>WHERE TO STAY</b></u><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.adelaideinn.com/"><b>Adelaide Inn</b></a><br />
1215 Ysabel Avenue, Paso Robles. (800) 549-PASO (7276)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.pasoroblesinn.com/"><b>Paso Robles Inn</b></a><br />
1103 Spring Street, Paso Robles. (800) 676-1713<br />
<br />
<b><u>WHAT TO DO</u></b><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.hunterranchgolf.com/">Hunter Ranch Golf Course</a></b><br />
"Small town charm...world class golf." The Hunter Ranch Golf Course is surrounded by oak studded hillsides and vineyards with sweeping vistas. It's going to be hard to keep your eye on the ball with this backdrop. Fore!<br />
4041 Highway 46 East, Paso Robles. (805) 237-7444<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidcEmK2nbsikHPm37Ce20YjZZW7OxZYZqhRqaYysbEyNejZtAWf_wbt8eFyif-Tgkstsmn8iZQ1Xuh3Mid5mDqQ3JdE5giIjUfXuq9qDFKCLz2VzLect9KC5-QTILc8URPrxenz5zvFDY/s1600/IMG_2060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidcEmK2nbsikHPm37Ce20YjZZW7OxZYZqhRqaYysbEyNejZtAWf_wbt8eFyif-Tgkstsmn8iZQ1Xuh3Mid5mDqQ3JdE5giIjUfXuq9qDFKCLz2VzLect9KC5-QTILc8URPrxenz5zvFDY/s400/IMG_2060.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Villa Creek Cellars, Peachy Canyon Rd., Paso Robles</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFg_VDE1tB1UsAUi6_rnyEzaRpZ4WT_N7Av9vV0OspYyemY_s1QQeoo88dhBzNLBVInIUnKhXNrNZN4y-oqZeXmNInGVlyhQNvpnuVxwxsmtWW_gTovmHnV4T8s-K3FSkB4GQHwnSBRP4/s1600/IMG_2066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFg_VDE1tB1UsAUi6_rnyEzaRpZ4WT_N7Av9vV0OspYyemY_s1QQeoo88dhBzNLBVInIUnKhXNrNZN4y-oqZeXmNInGVlyhQNvpnuVxwxsmtWW_gTovmHnV4T8s-K3FSkB4GQHwnSBRP4/s400/IMG_2066.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winemaker Steve Anglim, Anglim Winery</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNut_5s3S7FpxFMj2ZMR9Rj-49xv5omXw02ZISU1lZB2mbx8Xm1yR9Wiqp1ZegLWNMbL51zdhpx3WpNhqKENu3aGkhAjDF6A5McfsKrF4nfdl6Gg6e3TrDaGKcR9-FKovrqdD_PU62zl8/s1600/IMG_2067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNut_5s3S7FpxFMj2ZMR9Rj-49xv5omXw02ZISU1lZB2mbx8Xm1yR9Wiqp1ZegLWNMbL51zdhpx3WpNhqKENu3aGkhAjDF6A5McfsKrF4nfdl6Gg6e3TrDaGKcR9-FKovrqdD_PU62zl8/s400/IMG_2067.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barrel Sampling with Winemaker Steve Lock, Ecluse Wines</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ08SD0yrvYui3wcLAR0a5CmjRDd9FTZEQZkM4j_7CIPC3YAGJGP9C7nJRovlEcC5hPbDhtoSoZeyyM5XSogm8WPL92KABCOr9DW7dz5fgOnVSln_SCDL_iVKfVqwhCpqfJxKX38MoQcs/s1600/IMG_2081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ08SD0yrvYui3wcLAR0a5CmjRDd9FTZEQZkM4j_7CIPC3YAGJGP9C7nJRovlEcC5hPbDhtoSoZeyyM5XSogm8WPL92KABCOr9DW7dz5fgOnVSln_SCDL_iVKfVqwhCpqfJxKX38MoQcs/s400/IMG_2081.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winemaker Carl Bowker, Caliza Winery</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4LU76kdgLcZP7pZ17WTrnaZyqB2tIzWFjX739E06MnbFxWPlkBYWAWBUqO4PNQRMa1pW_75wp06t3LrUpThaGatz4MTAJIOWeBYhz-E7KxCqxYAWuwx8OOQv6phb7N9BXtidQTX1ZeM4/s1600/IMG_2082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4LU76kdgLcZP7pZ17WTrnaZyqB2tIzWFjX739E06MnbFxWPlkBYWAWBUqO4PNQRMa1pW_75wp06t3LrUpThaGatz4MTAJIOWeBYhz-E7KxCqxYAWuwx8OOQv6phb7N9BXtidQTX1ZeM4/s400/IMG_2082.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch at Farmstand 46, Templeton</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig3Kmmpj2VhSFsjBlSl1xMla3xCllFl0hJxOXG2zfiwVYQti3eaYxuY0-PpZiloKoyHgbwUvlmBHjm17G80NjQNMBX4OcPOOODuLI7zp8ThwshYTkm_-g9pqNafTtIgtigr-0HQoNyrtI/s1600/IMG_1936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig3Kmmpj2VhSFsjBlSl1xMla3xCllFl0hJxOXG2zfiwVYQti3eaYxuY0-PpZiloKoyHgbwUvlmBHjm17G80NjQNMBX4OcPOOODuLI7zp8ThwshYTkm_-g9pqNafTtIgtigr-0HQoNyrtI/s400/IMG_1936.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vines on the Marycrest, Mustard Creek Road, Paso Robles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-18522492701549049822011-03-20T10:09:00.000-07:002011-04-18T23:08:23.566-07:00Family Winemakers Southern California<b><a href="http://www.familywinemakers.org/">Family Winemakers of California</a></b> headed south on March 13 and 15 to pour 500 wines from over 200 wineries at two tastings in San Diego and Pasadena. Southern California welcomed the attention from notable and award-winning wineries representing Santa Barbara County, Paso Robles, Santa Lucia Highlands, Santa Cruz Mountains, Sonoma County, and Napa Valley, among other appellations. Over 2,000 people attended the San Diego Tasting at the Del Mar Fairgrounds and hundreds more at the Pasadena Convention Center for the exclusive trade tasting. <br />
<br />
Family Winemakers of California was founded in 1991 to give voice and presence to small, family wineries in the public policy arena. FWC advocates the rights and interests of its members to freely produce, market and sell their products, and is dedicated to preserving the diversity of California wine. Family Winemakers also sponsors three tastings each year in San Diego, Pasadena and San Francisco for its members to market their wines to consumers and the wine buying trade. <b>Follow Family Winemakers of California on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/FamilyWinemakersSanDiego">Facebook</a> and </b><b><a href="http://twitter.com/#!/FWCTasting">Twitter</a>. </b><br />
<br />
The FWC San Diego Trade & Consumer Tasting was the most comprehensive with the largest number of wineries. It was no easy task picking and choosing which wineries to visit and which wines to taste. There were quite a few wineries from the Central Coast pouring a vast selection of Rhône, Bordeaux and Burgundy varietal wines, including <a href="http://www.tercerowines.com/"><b>Tercero Wines</b></a><b>, </b><a href="http://www.clospepe.com/"><b>Clos Pepe</b></a><b>, </b><a href="http://melvillewinery.com/index2.html"><b>Melville Winery</b></a><b>, <a href="http://www.terryhoagevineyards.com/">Terry Hoage Vineyards</a>, </b><a href="http://www.fiddleheadcellars.com/"><b>Fiddlehead Cellars</b></a><b>, </b><a href="http://www.hearthstonevineyard.com/"><b>Hearthstone Vineyard & Winery</b></a><b>, </b><a href="http://www.villacreekwine.com/"><b>Villa Creek Cellars</b></a> and <a href="http://www.barrestatewines.com/"><b>Barr Estate Winery</b></a>. <br />
<br />
There seemed to be a dichotomy between my selection of wines at the two tasting events, in favor of acid driven wines ("food friendly" wines) at the San Diego tasting and more fruit forward wines at the Pasadena tasting. Winemaker Larry Schaffer is producing some fantastic Rhône varietal wines including the soon-to-be-released <b>Tercero Wines 2008 Cuvée Christie</b> - an impressive and uniquely expressive Santa Barbara County interpretation of any of the finest CdP wines. <br />
<br />
Of all the wineries, <b><a href="http://www.benoviawinery.com/">Benovia Winery</a></b> was my overall top selection for their Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Zinfandel wines. As a wine consumer, I know what I like even if it's difficult to describe, and Benovia fits the mold perfectly - superbly crafted wines with expressive fruit characteristics and balanced acidity. Don't worry Central Coasters; I am still a fan of the Rhône and Burgundy varietal wines from Santa Barbara County, Edna Valley and Paso Robles. But I am new convert to the wines of the Russian River Valley, including wines from <b><a href="http://www.fogcrestvineyard.com/">Fog Crest Vineyard</a></b>. Below are a few of the most notable wineries and wines from my tasting experience in San Diego and Pasadena.<br />
<br />
<u><b>SAN DIEGO TRADE & CONSUMER TASTING</b></u><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.cdowinery.com/">Costa de Oro Winery (Santa Maria)</a></b><br />
<u>Appellations:</u> Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County<br />
<u>Wine Picks:</u> 2008 Estate Chardonnay, 2009 Pinot Noir Santa Barbara County, 2008 Dijon Selection Pinot Noir Santa Maria Valley<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://dragonettecellars.com/">Dragonette Cellars (Los Olivos)</a></b><br />
<u>Appellations:</u> Sta. Rita Hills, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County<br />
<u>Wine Picks:</u> 2009 Sauvignon Blanc Santa Ynez Valley, 2009 Sauvignon Blanc Volgezang Vineyard, 2009 Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills, 2009 Pinot Noir Hilliard Bruce Vineyard<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://zotovichcellars.com/cm/Home.html">Zotovich Cellars (Lompoc)</a></b><br />
<u>Appellations:</u> Sta. Rita Hills<br />
<u>Wine Picks:</u> 2007 Estate Pinot Noir, 2008 Estate Syrah<br />
<br />
<u><b>PASADENA TRADE TASTING</b></u><br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.benoviawinery.com/">Benovia Winery (Santa Rosa)</a></b><br />
<u>Appellations:</u> Russian River, Sonoma Coast, Anderson Valley<br />
<u>Wine Picks:</u> 2009 Russian River Valley Chardonnay La Pommeraie, 2009 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, 2009 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, 2008 La Pommeraie Pinot Noir, 2008 Sonoma Coast Zinfandel<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.fogcrestvineyard.com/">Fog Crest Vineyard (Sebastopol)</a></b><br />
<u>Appellations:</u> Russian River Valley<br />
<u>Wine Picks:</u> 2007 Estate Chardonnay, 2008 Laguna West Chardonnay, 2008 Laguna West Pinot Noir, 2008 Estate Pinot Noir<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.aventurewine.com/">L'Aventure Winery (Paso Robles)</a></b><br />
<u>Appellations:</u> Paso Robles<br />
<u>Wine Picks:</u> 2008 Côte à Côte, 2008 Estate Cuvée<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.villacreekwine.com/">Villa Creek Cellars (Paso Robles)</a></b><br />
<u>Appellations:</u> Paso Robles<br />
<u>Wine Picks:</u> 2008 La Boda (50% Grenache, 50% Mourvèdre), 2008 Avenger (70% Syrah, 15% Grenache, 15% Mourvèdre)<br />
<br />
<b><i><a href="http://www.familywinemakers.org/tastings/tastings.cfm">Save the Date: Family Winemakers San Francisco Consumer & Trade Tasting, Sunday, August 21, 2011 at Fort Mason Center.</a></i></b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-87882880270653232962011-02-22T12:38:00.000-08:002011-03-04T12:03:38.238-08:00Paso Robles Wine Country Tours Los Angeles Redux<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuconVlZdYgSPPppNAbU2byDxCx5GwcOh9pE-VBkYqSBlR5NLixGg8mhuBn1DmpkiqW8-5J6jdhZ8Y8hbFQ-gmFVgTOTZVgl7c0R_rGsmEZ67-ynOQyA1eZyDqXpduHNPBV3CYIFIsLMg/s1600/LAGrandTasting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="71" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuconVlZdYgSPPppNAbU2byDxCx5GwcOh9pE-VBkYqSBlR5NLixGg8mhuBn1DmpkiqW8-5J6jdhZ8Y8hbFQ-gmFVgTOTZVgl7c0R_rGsmEZ67-ynOQyA1eZyDqXpduHNPBV3CYIFIsLMg/s400/LAGrandTasting.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
On March 2, nearly 40 wineries from Paso Robles converged at <b><a href="http://www.vibianala.com/index.html">Vibiana</a></b> in Downtown Los Angeles for the <b><a href="http://www.pasowine.com/events/grand-tasting-tour-los-angeles.php">Paso Robles Grand Tasting Tour - Los Angeles</a></b>. Winemakers poured more than 150 wines, including 40 single-varietal wines and blends for Los Angeles wine enthusiasts and Paso Robles fans.<br />
<br />
The former Cathedral of Saint Vibiana, built in 1876, provided the spectacular backdrop for the Los Angeles Grand Tasting. Winery booths lined the corridors where parishoners waited to enter the confessional booths or sat quietly in the pews during Sunday services. Today, Vibiana is a premier event location in Downtown Los Angeles catering to posh award events and this afternoon/evening's wine tasting. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.pasowine.com/"><b>Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance</b></a> members are hitting the road throughout 2011 as part of the Grand Tasting Tour pouring award-winning wines from one of the most acclaimed wine regions in the country for wine enthusiasts in Scottsdale, Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, and San Francisco.<br />
<br />
During the nearly four hour Trade and Media tasting, I enjoyed some 50 wines from nearly a dozen wineries. In particular, these wineries poured some fantastic wines including single-varietal and blends of Syrah, Grenache, Petite Sirah, Mourvèdre, Zinfandel, Viognier, Grenache Blanc and Roussanne, among other varietals. Here is a selection of noteworthy wines from the tasting that exhibit complexity, depth, distinctive fruit characteristics and balanced acidity (and not overtly ripe for my palate), as well as price and quality for everyday drinking: <br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.adelaida.com/">Adelaida Cellars</a></b><br />
--2008 Grenache ($32)<br />
<br />
<b><a href="https://www.altacolinawine.com/">Alta Colina Vineyard & Winery</a></b><br />
<b><a href="https://www.altacolinawine.com/"></a></b>--2008 Toasted Slope: 92% Syrah, 3% Viognier, 3% Mourvèdre, 2% Grenache ($40)<br />
--2008 Old 900: 98% Syrah, 2% Viognier ($48)<br />
--2008 Ann's Block, Petite Sirah ($48) <br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.ancientpeaks.com/">Ancient Peaks Winery</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.ancientpeaks.com/"></a></b>--2009 Merlot ($16)<br />
--2008 Zinfandel ($16)<br />
--2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($16)<br />
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<b><a href="http://anglimwinery.com/anglimwinery.php">Anglim Winery</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://anglimwinery.com/anglimwinery.php"></a></b>--2007 Mourvèdre, Hastings Ranch ($34)<br />
--2008 Zinfandel, St. Peter of Alcantara ($24)<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.austinhope.com/home.htm">Austin Hope Winery</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.austinhope.com/home.htm"></a></b>--2009 Grenache ($40)<br />
--2009 Syrah ($40)<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.calizawinery.com/">Caliza Winery</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.calizawinery.com/"></a></b>--2009 Sidekick: 65% Roussanne, 35% Viognier ($25)<br />
--2007 Azimuth: 53% Grenache, 35% Syrah, 12% Mourvèdre ($45)<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.volkwines.com/">Kenneth Volk Vineyards</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.volkwines.com/"></a></b>--2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmody McKnight Vineyard ($36)<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.kukkulawine.com/">kukkula</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.kukkulawine.com/"></a></b>--2006 i.p.o.: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Syrah, 10% Zinfandel ($24)<br />
--2008 sisu: Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre ($TBD)<br />
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<b><a href="http://tablascreek.com/">Tablas Creek Vineyard</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://tablascreek.com/"></a></b>--2010 Patelin de Tablas Blanc: 50% Grenache Blanc, 33% Viognier, 10% Roussanne, 7% Marsanne ($20)<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.terryhoagevineyards.com/">Terry Hoage Vineyards</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.terryhoagevineyards.com/"></a></b>--2009 The Gap: 59% Grenache Blanc, 25% Roussanne, 16% Picpoul Blanc ($38)<br />
--2009 The Pick: 53% Grenache, 26% Syrah, 14% Mourvèdre, 7% Counoise ($48)<br />
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<b><a href="http://thacherwinery.com/">Thacher Winery</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://thacherwinery.com/"></a></b>--2007 Triumvirate, Zinfandel ($36)<br />
--2007 Controlled Chaos: 42% Zinfandel, 37% Mourvèdre, 21% Grenache ($33)<br />
--2007 Syrah ($26)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_1P_loRR2Z7_0K0dK_Bxedu7HGo7s7b8bheyG0-bmXKxHDg6SDWA3vdY_CHHSbiang-RhP7DmPVYSE73_YyW0JSHyqhIOqKuQSbZR-1b71lb09KQyM4dlN7WTDsxKLRoiwKkAPmrcsU8/s1600/IMG_1993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_1P_loRR2Z7_0K0dK_Bxedu7HGo7s7b8bheyG0-bmXKxHDg6SDWA3vdY_CHHSbiang-RhP7DmPVYSE73_YyW0JSHyqhIOqKuQSbZR-1b71lb09KQyM4dlN7WTDsxKLRoiwKkAPmrcsU8/s400/IMG_1993.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alta Colina Vineyard & Winery - Superbly crafted wines!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyI0dAAf3BGiBrPtAR-5GT4cy9OzMCwcKp3IXaKsxxb9YgP6TUxil_FeJu2Qf5_WjqyLLFMlVx8z9Xt07QwzzM80qUkXP6mI4RfZuR0ZnoM5WFTlgJMa512xQL106rF-nFouoE9qGLXp0/s1600/IMG_1994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyI0dAAf3BGiBrPtAR-5GT4cy9OzMCwcKp3IXaKsxxb9YgP6TUxil_FeJu2Qf5_WjqyLLFMlVx8z9Xt07QwzzM80qUkXP6mI4RfZuR0ZnoM5WFTlgJMa512xQL106rF-nFouoE9qGLXp0/s400/IMG_1994.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steffanie Anglim, Anglim Winery - Delicious wines!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJKuanA0oHna3PXmfXF1qreKYzgn7706XeHunmIBbZy6miU0dVUaqBjcVrP1-tIan79B9PiB-PDWdAK-BC00IYIbmPr1CiGn_6-NvEoJQvqrY879g7GylQ0lwGJIZP7TjXV8SCXNGgw0/s1600/IMG_1996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJKuanA0oHna3PXmfXF1qreKYzgn7706XeHunmIBbZy6miU0dVUaqBjcVrP1-tIan79B9PiB-PDWdAK-BC00IYIbmPr1CiGn_6-NvEoJQvqrY879g7GylQ0lwGJIZP7TjXV8SCXNGgw0/s400/IMG_1996.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carl Bowker, Caliza Winery - Drink it, Love it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_s46mFpF_q0ghbKOnOHBquMeVzZQ-U-weYA7JFx8521ORMVP9_kREuCiKVpAdFPGls1jz8Sg1DBHM91QpKqkyiRewBqxvDXG6QNzDcf1y2E3yR-Bb3aa86vPFxTPjm2vdu2xy_3_Nu_0/s1600/IMG_1997.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_s46mFpF_q0ghbKOnOHBquMeVzZQ-U-weYA7JFx8521ORMVP9_kREuCiKVpAdFPGls1jz8Sg1DBHM91QpKqkyiRewBqxvDXG6QNzDcf1y2E3yR-Bb3aa86vPFxTPjm2vdu2xy_3_Nu_0/s400/IMG_1997.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sun is always shining on Sherman Thacher (Thacher Winery)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEcO6EBz6LzcYV5fkLC7QngcG6eOxz5dTaPp72H76dCrWB238GIPLPvrtisguDTHWatm10ql3VZ7pDLa_EoAZURtjsrUyPWy_y5xlogz0W37Yb0rD-_-40FUJ60Q0DC6Ts5EDuWEhAonU/s1600/IMG_2004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEcO6EBz6LzcYV5fkLC7QngcG6eOxz5dTaPp72H76dCrWB238GIPLPvrtisguDTHWatm10ql3VZ7pDLa_EoAZURtjsrUyPWy_y5xlogz0W37Yb0rD-_-40FUJ60Q0DC6Ts5EDuWEhAonU/s400/IMG_2004.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Rhone Ranger himself, Jason Haas of Tablas Creek Vineyard</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOTxiyQe5fri8ZO7-kFkBD9OD0I3foXrO-34g3OqhgGKsEQrBD-a7171BNqSsJCjzsyMRE69SbyuqE-osteHklFTtadEdvMHdzmGxXg3hRgrqamgK3sxbe1yKnQOvE4QM8opkLns6URjY/s1600/IMG_1998.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOTxiyQe5fri8ZO7-kFkBD9OD0I3foXrO-34g3OqhgGKsEQrBD-a7171BNqSsJCjzsyMRE69SbyuqE-osteHklFTtadEdvMHdzmGxXg3hRgrqamgK3sxbe1yKnQOvE4QM8opkLns6URjY/s400/IMG_1998.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vibiana, Downtown Los Angeles - Great setting for the Grand Tasting</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-67208234484406851292011-02-03T17:29:00.000-08:002011-02-04T22:36:36.706-08:00Wine Is...Paso RoblesPaso Robles Wine Country shined in 2010 with numerous awards and accolades, including Wine Spectator's <i>Wine of the Year </i>to the <a href="http://www.saxumvineyards.com/"><b>2007 Saxum James Berry Vineyard</b></a>. In 2011, two wineries in Paso Robles, Thacher Winery and Ecluse Wines, received the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Tasting Competition Sweepstakes award in the red category for the <a href="http://thacherwinery.com/"><b>Thacher 2008 Triumvirate Zinfandel</b></a> and <a href="http://eclusewines.com/"><b>Ecluse 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon, Lock Vineyard</b></a>. These scores and awards highlight the growing interest in the wines coming from this renowned and diverse wine making region in California's Central Coast. <br />
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There are dozens of other noteworthy wineries and award winning wines worth seeking out in Paso Robles in 2011. Fortunately, there is no shortage of events that feature many of these renowned wines. There is something truly magical about this wine region that you can't experience by simply opening a bottle of wine from one of the local wineries; rather, you have to experience Paso Robles firsthand to understand what wine is. To satisfy your quest for the perfect wine, three phenomenal organizations - <b><a href="http://www.rhonerangers.org/">Rhône Rangers</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.hospicedurhone.com/">Hospice du Rhône</a></b> and <b><a href="http://www.pasowine.com/">Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance</a></b> - are planning a handful of memorable wine tasting events for you to experience Paso Robles Wine Country. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiC0fB_wvE4POJhZlEnSIbxOGBsKI2av4d3MJKRkjBIDZT8nrPfu8am6BVYjyJ189MEFb8fabwqiXrYU2PFoAxbXq6ZLox4IpV4weUMx_NlyUD-FhbTXRGnOuVrixgu_l3XO4LwuEOvuo/s1600/IMG_1195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiC0fB_wvE4POJhZlEnSIbxOGBsKI2av4d3MJKRkjBIDZT8nrPfu8am6BVYjyJ189MEFb8fabwqiXrYU2PFoAxbXq6ZLox4IpV4weUMx_NlyUD-FhbTXRGnOuVrixgu_l3XO4LwuEOvuo/s400/IMG_1195.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2010 Paso Robles Rhône Rangers Experience</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><b><a href="http://www.rhonerangers.org/calendar/paso_experience.php">Paso Robles Rhône Rangers Experience</a></b><br />
<b>Vina Robles Winery and Event Center</b><br />
<b>Sunday, February 20, 2011</b><br />
<b>Seminar and Luncheon 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (<i>$75</i>)</b><br />
<b>Grand Tasting and Silent Auction 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (<i>$25</i>)</b><br />
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Savor award-winning Rhône varietal wines from 35+ members of the Paso Robles Chapter of the Rhône Rangers at the 2011 Paso Robles Rhône Rangers Experience at Vina Robles Winery and Event Center. The day's events include:<br />
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<ul><li><b>"Rhône Esstential" Seminar</b> - Taste a top example of each of the principal categories of Rhône wines, including Viognier, Roussanne, white Rhône blends, dry Rosé, Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah and red Rhône blends. The panel will be moderated by author and wine writer Patrick Comiskey, senior contributor for Wine & Spirits Magazine.</li>
<li><b>Vintners' Lunch</b> - Seminar participants will be joined by Rhône Rangers principals and winemakers for a gourmet banquet lunch, with members' Rhône wines passing freely around the tables and extended opportunity for interaction with the producers.</li>
<li><b>Grand Tasting </b>- Taste nearly 150 wines from the complete membership of the Paso Robles Rhône Rangers, including top single Rhône varietals and the best in Rhône blends.</li>
<li><b>Silent Auction</b> - During the Grand Tasting, bids on lots donated by Rhône Rangers member wineries and help support the Rhône Rangers scholarship fund.</li>
</ul><div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnLS2mh8ydZUVTrfsZNq64Tkdu_uFK0W5MSz2IKu64PQC6l1F3bF_0DRVsZApsuqM3nRTIoCBpCQZlGLWSMXhaz4Y9E9s5-7ZTwbK4Za8LYZWpbhUaWMgAYH_ZdXf_pOdRU5GWL56qPIY/s1600/IMG_1231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnLS2mh8ydZUVTrfsZNq64Tkdu_uFK0W5MSz2IKu64PQC6l1F3bF_0DRVsZApsuqM3nRTIoCBpCQZlGLWSMXhaz4Y9E9s5-7ZTwbK4Za8LYZWpbhUaWMgAYH_ZdXf_pOdRU5GWL56qPIY/s400/IMG_1231.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2010 Paso Robles Zin Tasting</td></tr>
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</div><div><b><a href="http://www.pasowine.com/events/zinfandel-festival.php">Paso Robles Zinfandel Festival Weekend</a></b></div><div><b><a href="http://www.pasowine.com/events/zinfandel-festival.php"></a>2011 Zinfandel Festival Weekend: March 18-20, 2011</b></div><div><b>Zin Tasting: March 19, 2011, 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.</b></div><div><b>Paso Robles Event Center, 2198 Riverside Drive</b></div><div><br />
</div><div>If Zin were a sin, we would all be Zinners. So, why not Zin in Paso Robles with hundreds of other Zinners? During the 19th Annual Paso Robles Zinfandel Weekend, Paso Robles Wine Country celebrates with dozens of weekend festivities at member wineries and the Zin Tasting on March 19th at the Paso Robles Event Center. Last year's event featured a collection of memorable wines and a savory paella dishes from the <a href="http://www.tenthstreetbasquecafe.com/"><b>Tenth Street Basque Cafe</b></a> in San Miguel. </div><div><br />
<ul><li><b>ZIP (<i>Zinfully Important Person</i>) Ticket (<i>$85</i>), 6:00 p.m. top 9:30 p.m. -</b> Zip into the Zin Tasting and Wine Country Auction one hour early to experience true ZIP treatment in a zintimate atmosphere</li>
<li><b>Zin Fan Tasting Ticket (<i>$60</i>), 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.</b></li>
</ul><div><b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq4BDXbEQdYTu3XckNVQNNckwxRrRcRMyhUpdo75iqC7c0h5wOi1hh4THerA-Zn2cdQjmA-rMFqOfPayEOEOb0BlDrADnYyPtYG7kzdjxwd5a4cy06acuANhR8iumMh_wHmp-kaHo6CpA/s1600/IMG_1353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq4BDXbEQdYTu3XckNVQNNckwxRrRcRMyhUpdo75iqC7c0h5wOi1hh4THerA-Zn2cdQjmA-rMFqOfPayEOEOb0BlDrADnYyPtYG7kzdjxwd5a4cy06acuANhR8iumMh_wHmp-kaHo6CpA/s400/IMG_1353.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2010 Hospice du Rhône</td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://www.hospicedurhone.org/">Hospice du Rhône</a></b><br />
<b>April 28-30, 2011</b><br />
<b>Paso Robles Event Center, 2198 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles</b><br />
<br />
How do you Rhône? In April, you should plan to Rhône with the finest Rhône producers from California, France and around the world. If you love Rhône varietals, you must attend the seminars and tastings April 28-30 in Paso Robles. No event anywhere in the country comes close to the caliber of wineries present at the Paso Robles Event Center. If there is one event to attend in 2011, Hospice du Rhône is that event! <br />
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<b>Rhone 'n Bowl</b><br />
Date: Thursday, April 28, 2011<br />
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.<br />
Cost: $100 <i>(advance purchase is required)</i><br />
Location: Paso Robles Bowl, 2748 Spring Street, Paso Robles<br />
The highly anticipated and always spirited annual bowling tournament at the Paso Bowl in Paso Robles brings out the athlete in all Rhône revelers! <i>(Availability is limited)</i><b> </b><br />
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<b>Friday Rosé Lunch</b><br />
Date: Friday, April 29, 2011<br />
Time: 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.<br />
Cost: $100 <i>(advance purchase is required)</i><b> </b><br />
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<b>Friday Rhône Rendezvous Tasting</b><br />
Date: Friday, April 29, 2011<br />
Time: 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. - <i>Consumer Tasting</i><br />
Cost: $100 <i>online</i> / $110 <i>at the door if not sold out</i><br />
Engage. Imbibe. Savor. An afternoon brimming with Rhône wines of vintages past and reserve wines from worldly Rhône wine producers. While strolling the Tasting Pavilion you will encounter opportunities to test your nose with a sensory exploration, tantalize your taste buds with a food pairing or try your hand at Rhône related trivia. The 130 Rhône producers will be eagerly awaiting your arrival to share a one-of-a-kind experience created just for the 2011 Rhône Rendezvous. In addition, artisan food purveyors will be located throughout the tasting and nationally acclaimed chefs will show off their talents in the new demonstration kitchen.<b> </b><br />
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<b>Soirée</b><br />
Date: Friday, April 29, 2011<br />
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.<br />
Cost: $125 <i>(advanced purchase is required)</i><br />
This collection of flavors in food, wine and entertainment will exude the international essence that HdR embodies year-in and year-out. <i>(Availability is limited. Pass is not included in the Weekend Package)</i><b> </b><br />
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<b>Saturday Lunch and Live Auction</b><br />
Date: Saturday, April 30, 2011<br />
Time: 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.<br />
Cost: $100 <i>(advance purchase is required)<b> </b></i><br />
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<b>Saturday Grand Tasting</b><br />
Date: Saturday, April 30, 2011<br />
Time: 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. - Consumer Tasting<br />
Cost: $100 <i>online</i> / $110 <i>at the door if not sold out</i><br />
One of the most comprehensive tastings of Rhône variety wines, this event boasts producers from throughout the world. To complement the wines poured, artisan food purveyors will be located throughout the venue to share their wares. In addition to food and wine tables, nationally acclaimed chefs will show off their talents in the new demonstration kitchen.<b> </b><br />
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<b>Farewell BBQ</b><br />
Date: Saturday, April 30, 2011<br />
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.<br />
Cost: $100 <i>(advance purchase is required)</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrcFzm9cJz0GAQoQVnk2f11L7lM0ld_S7Yoy3FTC8-V20zOFJbArH16mIoWyNJJ5_Vj8rt247M95CIpy6mGUfqvriVJiggZ0olc-Ml_PV-MUtr1y57Sd0W4fNT7iK7PDzcElImJrrjwA/s1600/IMG_1172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrcFzm9cJz0GAQoQVnk2f11L7lM0ld_S7Yoy3FTC8-V20zOFJbArH16mIoWyNJJ5_Vj8rt247M95CIpy6mGUfqvriVJiggZ0olc-Ml_PV-MUtr1y57Sd0W4fNT7iK7PDzcElImJrrjwA/s400/IMG_1172.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cass Winery, Eastside Paso Robles</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<b><a href="http://www.pasowine.com/events/winefestival.php">Paso Robles Wine Festival Weekend</a></b><br />
<b>May 20-21, 2011</b><br />
<b>Paso Robles Downtown City Park <i>(location of festival events)</i></b><br />
<b>Winery Activities: May 20-21 <i>at all member wineries</i></b><br />
<b>Reserve Event (<i>$115</i>): May 20, 3:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. <i>(seminar & grand tasting incl.)</i></b><br />
<b>Grand Tasting (<i>$45-$65</i>): May 21, 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.</b><br />
<b>Wine Country Auction & Dinner (<i>$250</i>): May 21, 6:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.</b><br />
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Celebrate Paso Robles Wine Festival Weekend in one of the most picture perfect settings with more than 140 wineries that will be releasing new wines and showcasing their current releases. While you are at it, set some time aside to tour the vineyards on the Eastside and Westside. You will never want to leave.<br />
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The Paso Robles Wine Festival Grand Tasting on May 21st brings more than 90 wineries to the Downtown City Park to share their favorite wines, while local food purveyors share their wine country cuisine for a truly memorable and unique Paso Robles experience. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vines on the Marycrest, Westside Paso Robles</td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://www.pasowine.com/events/harvest.php">Paso Robles Wine Harvest Weekend</a></b><br />
<b>October 15-17, 2011</b><br />
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Join your favorite wineries during the most important time of the year - harvest! Vineyard managers and winemakers will be working early mornings and late evenings to bring in the ripen grapes and process the fruit for the upcoming vintage. There is no telling how late they'll go into the harvest season this year, but you are sure to encounter a lot of activity on the road and in the wineries the week of October 15-17 in Paso Robles, including at <a href="http://www.vinesonthemarycrest.com/"><b>Vines on the Marycrest</b></a> where you can find Central Coast Uncorked working alongside winemaker Victor Abascal handcrafting <i>(we mean that literally)</i> the wines you are about to enjoy. So treat yourself to a wine country getaway during harvest in Paso Robles!<br />
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Aside from these events in Paso Robles, the <b><a href="http://www.pasowine.com/">Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance</a></b> and <b><a href="http://www.rhonerangers.org/">Rhône Rangers</a></b> bring the show on the road to your neighborhood. Check their websites for events happening in 2011.<b><br />
</b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3129212122421611017.post-49594914740970361822011-01-21T19:41:00.000-08:002011-02-02T16:03:24.576-08:00Oso Libre: Vines | Wines | Angus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGONtZtqTQCPTIzxsEmJnRxoSLohFDNsfy9rmyEVHgOFHo3CvoJl_-Sq1ELVYgIDO-6N1uWQR2vRKR2faI558y5mRba0QHvs6SIqsUPSErwub69NCpFD1apLiYTJDmbzieCdCWku2TV10/s1600/IMG_1894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGONtZtqTQCPTIzxsEmJnRxoSLohFDNsfy9rmyEVHgOFHo3CvoJl_-Sq1ELVYgIDO-6N1uWQR2vRKR2faI558y5mRba0QHvs6SIqsUPSErwub69NCpFD1apLiYTJDmbzieCdCWku2TV10/s400/IMG_1894.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Located halfway along scenic Vineyard Drive in Westside Paso Robles is a winery and estate vineyard producing a range of award-winning, artisanal single-varietal wines and blends. <b><a href="http://www.osolibre.com/">Oso Libre</a> </b>is a family owned and operated winery and vineyard on 90 acres of highly prized land situated in one of the most acclaimed areas within the Paso Robles AVA.<br />
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By the looks of things, Chris and Linda Behr sparred no expense in designing and constructing the estate vineyard and winery that is perfectly nestled within the oak studded hillsides of Paso Robles. Upon entering the estate and stepping inside the tasting room, you feel a unique connection to the property and the natural surroundings even within the modernly designed tasting room, which affords sweeping views of the estate vineyard. <br />
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In addition to the design of the estate, Oso Libre relies on sustainable agricultural practices and renewable energy strategies to supply the majority of electricity for operations and to help preserve the environment. A growing number of wineries, including Oso Libre, are committed to sustainable practices and seeking the coveted <a href="http://www.sipthegoodlife.org/"><b>Sustainability in Practice (SIP)™ Certification</b></a> - a seal that guarantees the winery is committed to environmental stewardship in the vineyard and winery.<br />
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If you are lucky enough to explore the rest of the property, you will soon find out that Oso Libre is also a working cattle ranch with 60 acres set aside for free range, grass fed, hormone-free Black Angus. The Black Angus Beef is available exclusively to wine club members and there are plenty of of their wines that pair nicely with a juicy steak. <br />
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<b><a href="http://www.osolibre.com/Our_Wines/Current_Releases.html">Wines available for tasting and/or purchase</a></b> in the tasting room include the following labels: <u>Vino d'Oro Chardonnay</u><span class="Apple-style-span">, </span><u>Volado Viognier</u>, <u>Rosalinda Rose</u> <i>(Mourvèdre | Syrah | Grenache | Viognier)</i>, <u>Carnal Rhône Blend</u><i> (Syrah | Grenache | Mourvèdre | Petite Sirah | Zinfandel)</i>, <u>Primoroso</u> <i>(Zinfandel | Cabernet Sauvignon | Syrah | Grenache | Mourvèdre | Petite Sirah)</i>, <u>Osezno</u> <i>(Zinfandel)</i>, <u>Nativo Primitivo</u> <i>(Primitivo | Petite Sirah)</i>, <u>Azucar Late Harvest Estate Blend</u>, <u>Rojo del Patron</u> <i>(Cabernet Sauvignon | Zinfandel)</i> and <u>Cabernet Sauvignon</u><i>. </i>You will be hard pressed not to find a wine you enjoy and take home. Favorites include Nativo Primitivo and Cabernet Sauvignon. <br />
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Oso Libre Winery is a highly recommended stop for wine tasters traveling along Vineyard Drive in Westside Paso Robles. <b> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Grab a glass and perch yourself outside on a chair overlooking the estate vineyard. You're in wine country; where else do you have to be?</span></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.osolibre.com/">Oso Libre</a></b><br />
7383 Vineyard Drive, Paso Robles<br />
(805) 238-3378<br />
Open Wednesday-Monday, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m<br />
Tasting fee: $10 for six wines (fee waived with purchase)<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:info@osolibre.com">info@osolibre.com</a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruby posing for the camera</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oso Libre Tasting Room</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oso Libre tasting room overlooking the vineyard</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cabernet Block 4, Estate Vineyard</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZnH7wsOFzk7vmzi3UCWMzUk34o-M4z4Gnb050tHJm-bx7n0SPtdPcd7zFpoyDzdhxCVBXjn7rcjyEUHRupamtR9yJM0hIIzYP1jz_F6cXtnozNWQAAn88Drqj9_fR9x2GZa-OSjuf0kw/s1600/IMG_1896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZnH7wsOFzk7vmzi3UCWMzUk34o-M4z4Gnb050tHJm-bx7n0SPtdPcd7zFpoyDzdhxCVBXjn7rcjyEUHRupamtR9yJM0hIIzYP1jz_F6cXtnozNWQAAn88Drqj9_fR9x2GZa-OSjuf0kw/s400/IMG_1896.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oso Libre Winery and Tasting Room</td></tr>
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