Brian Thomas Wines

(Bob Hope) Humana Classic

2012-01-28T11:01:00.000-08:00

California Desert - its nice that the PGA Tour makes a stop in La Quinta. For the 1st time since 1965 its not called the Bob Hope Classic that's a little sad but I'm not sure a lot of 25 year olds even know who Bob is...but the good news this year the guest hope is President Bill Clinton and they changed the format to more normal 4 day tournament - its more about golf now and is only on 3 golf courses - PGA Palmer & Nicklaus Private and right across the street from me at La Quinta Country Club. Amateurs only play 3 days with the cut being made on Sunday.

And the crowds are up this year as was the wind on Saturday with gusts over 65 mph, I watched Bill Clinton hit his ball in the water on 10th tee and shortly thereafter the tourney was post poned due to the wind. They evacuated the Humana Village as tents were falling down in the wind.

Several of my Disney Pro-Am golf pros were there and were doing quite well. Kevin Kisney, Spencer Levin and Johnson Wagner who won the Sony Open the week before in Hawaii. Spoke to Johnson on the 18th tee box on Friday and told him evidently plays a lot better when I'm not in his foursome...he is one who's sporting a mustache now and after talking to him he feels its good luck, but his wife hates it.

If you visit the California Desert one of the great places to visit is Old Towne La Quinta. http://oldtownlaquinta.com/ A main street loaded with boutiques, cafes, shops and a spa and...

THE WINE BAR at Old Town.

Not only do they have a great selection of California Wines I can't find in NY at prices too low to advertise, they also do regular Saturday tastings from 2 - 6pm and this week distributor Southern Wine & Spirits is on hand with some great values.

1) Brassfield "Serenity" 2010 white blend $9.99 - skipped it because I was driving.

2) Paraiso Reisling 2008 $16.99 - very refreshing after a day in the sun and not too sweet for my taste.

3) Darcie Kent Sauvignon Blanc 2009 - $8.00

4) Darcie Kent Chardonnay 2009 - $8.00 Don't the price fool you, I would have never know that this was the price point. Very nice balance and big finish.

5) Darcie Kent Pinot Noir 2008 - $8.00 Another one that I wouldn't have believed this price. Nice fruit up from with a smokey earthy finish.

6) Belle Glos - Pinot Noir 2010 "Clark & Telephone" $39.99 I really liked the Darcie Pinot above until I tasted this...everything you want from a Pinot and its only going to get better. Big Flavor up front and a finish that goes on for days. Very nice wine!

7) Hillary Goldschmidt Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 $25.00. I was not familar with this wine, but really like it and feels like a steal at this price.

8) Luna Sangiovese 2008 $19.99. I visited this winery a lot off Silverado Trail in Napa and feel like its always been a great value for a very interesting wine.

Now the other good news about THE WINE BAR if you purchase a bottle there, you can order food and drink it at the bar or table with no corkage fee. And you'll get to meet a lot of the locals too.

Across the street is Grill on Main Street where I love their Fish & Chips.
Above that is Hog's Breath Inn - nice restaurant started by Clint Eastwood.
Also next door is Stuft Pizza another local hangout with a great happy hour and amazing Pizza.
And moving into the new location in Old Towne is Solano - where there's normally a wait every night at their old location.
And just down a street is El Ranchito - a little hole in the wall Mexican Restaurant that has the best food.

Over at the La Quinta Resort - check out Morgans and 26 two great place for dinner. http://www.laquintaresort.com/

Well my friend Johnson Wagner mustache and all gave it a run on Sunday but finished 2nd behind Mark Wilson.

The desert is amazing place and I always feel at peace with the world there, something so calming about it.

And although its no longer called the Bob Hope Classic his memory will never be forgotten in the desert.

Thanks Bob for all the memories.

-Brian

CHICAGO My Kind of Town

2011-09-29T13:50:00.000-07:00

I'm in my hometown of Chicago for the "2011 Radio Show" which really takes me full circle because its the same place as my first convention when I was a baby DJ back in the early 80's at the same place Hyatt Regency Hotel on Wacker Drive.

I moderated two panels this year; "OWNing Your Brand" with Erik Logan from Harpo Ent, Brian Phillips from CMT and Marc Chase of NuVoodoo Media and "Talking to Your Talent" with morning show consultant Steve Reynolds.

But let's get to the fun stuff all the great food and fine wine.

Roka Akor - Tuesday night sales dinner with CBS sales and new friends from Katz Media. Voted as one of the top 10 Sushi Spots in the US by Bon Appetit. They have a robata grill and every item has so many amazing flavors. Corner of W. Illinois and Grant across from Frontera. While they have Kirin beer on tap we enjoy some of their great wine from Napa. www.rokaakor.com/Chicago

1) Honig 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon - by the glass

2) POV 2006 from Robert Sinskey - Stands for "Point of View" a propietary Red Bordeaux Blend while his winery is in the Stag's Leap district of Napa right on Silverado Trail these grapes are from Carneros region. Fantastic. http://www.robertsinskey.com/

3) Justin - Justification 2005 - A right bank Bordeaux Blend led by Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Vineyard located in the Paso Robles AVA this wine was drinking absolutely fantastic. http://www.justinwine.com/

Petterino's - A Chicago favorite located in the Theatre District. http://www.petterino's.com/
We all had successful panels earlier in the day so its time to celebrate Wednesday night with Lori from Jacob's Media, and new friends Glenn and Bill. Their special of the night was Redfish, normally wouldn't order fish at an Italian Eatery but it was amazing and we paired it with:
1) TAZ - 2006 Pinot Noir, Fiddlestix Vineyard, Santa Rita Hills. Pinots from this region are some of the best in California thanks to hot days and very cool nights. http://www.tazvineyards.com/

Bandera - (312) 644-3524 The weather has cooled off in Chicago and I'm out with friends Frank, Mike and John as we head over to great restaurant on 535 N. Michigan Ave. that you can't even see from that side of the street because its on the 2nd floor and you'd walk right by it. Come hungry because this restaurant has big portions and an amazing wine list. Ok here are some of the must-haves on the menu; #1 Tuna Poke with Shrimp and avocado, Cornbread & Foccacia, Mac & Cheese with cornbread crumbles and the "Hacked" Chicken Salad for starters. For dinner I had the Center-Cut Filet with mashed potatoes and spinach and I couldn't even come close to finishing it....but let's get to the WINE - we are blown away from their list and we start with a battle or Pinots...

1) Belle Glos Meiomi Pinot Noir 2008. WS 87pts http://www.meiomiwines.com/
Tasting notes: Juicy Pomegranate and plum fruit flavors. This is Frank's choice and its very nice, but we have another contender from the Sonoma Coast...

2) Patz & Hall Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2008. WS 93 pts
This is the highest review they have ever received from the Wine Spectator and it made their Top 100 list for 2009. Some tasting notes from winery; "This fruit driven, lush, harmonious, bold, mouthcoating wine blows other Pinots out of the water! with layers of brown sugar, cedar and rose petals balance out the smooth tannins and youthful body. The 2009 is already sold-out at the winery...there is still some 2008 out there, get it while you can! This was my choice...Frank evidently forgot who he was competing against...hey I get lots of practice!

And we're not done there is an absolute gem on the menu - I always look for the best taste and value on the menu and here is an unforgettable one

3) Diamond Creek - Gravelly Meadow Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 WS 94pts
The rarest of their 3 vineyards with only 5 acres of grapes Gravelly Meadow is the their lowest yielding vineyards with the others being Red Rock Terrace and Volcanic Hill. I was just at the vineyard for barrel tastings and the winery was selling it for $175 and it was only $5 more here (I even looked up the pricing from an earlier post on this blog)...like if we called the winery right then and ordered a bottle and had it Fed-Exed it would cost more so we go for it! And with the amazing steaks this wine is one of the best I've had all year "F---ing Amazing!" The tasting notes "Earthy, Cedar, jammy and ripe blackberry with a spicy expansive finish." I'm going to have to find another bottle soon!
http://www.diamondcreekvineyards.com/

ENOlogy at the Fairmont. This is one of the reasons I love staying at this hotel for the wine bar in the lobby. And they had some great wine by the glass.
1) Chimney Rock - Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Tomahawk Vineyard, Stags Leap District
2) Chimney Rock - "Elevage"2007 Estate grown Bordeaux Blend led by Merlot.
3) Scherrer - Chardonnay 2007 Helfer Vineyard, Russian River Valley

Frontera - Home to chef Rick Bayless and creator of Frontera gourmet foods - love his salsa.
Yes there is an amazing Mexican restaurant in Chicago on 445 N. Clark Street, just across the street from Roka Akor. It is absolutely packed on Friday, but luckily a couple leaves the bar and we get the seats. Can't go wrong with the Chicken Tacos, but the Haberno salsa is so much hotter than the one at the grocery store - more Pacifico's Porfavor!

And any trip to Chicago would not be complete without a visit to Wrigley Field to see the Cubs. Sadly we won't hear "Hello again everybody Harry Caray from Wrigley Field and its a beautiful day for baseball" we miss you! Its a quick cab ride from Wacker and tickets are still available at the box office - just 7 rows off the field from 1st base. You can't go wrong with a Brat and some Old Style beer. Its warmer today the sun is out and the CUBS Win 2-1!

Its funny I got into radio with the goal of making it to Chicago and I never have, but Chicago is my kind of town and I love it! of course before winter.

-Brian

Being A Tourist in Napa

2011-08-14T05:57:00.000-07:00

After living in the East Bay for over a decade it was so easy to visit Napa the same way everytime, head up Silverado Trail and see my buddies at my favorite wineries and stop off for a cheeseburger at Auberge. But's what it like to stay in downtown Napa and hit up wineries and restaurants that I've never been to? It was time to be a Tourist In Napa.
WINERIES:

VINTNER'S COLLECTIVE
1245 Main Street, downtown Napa and its just around the corner from the AVIA hotel. This tasting room has over 80 wines to sample from an elite group of Napa winemakers. Including Ancien Wines, Gemella, Buoncristiani, Chiarello, Clark-Claudon, D-Cubed, Flanagan, Hestan, JC Cellars, Lamborn Family, Las Bonitas, Longfellow, Melka, Mi Sueno, Parallel, Phelan, Richard Perry, Showket and Vionce. Highlights: 2009 Ancien Chardonnay Carneros $34, 2009 Pinot Mink $45, 2008 Pinot Russian River $45, 2007 Buoncristiani Prop Red with Syrah $48, 2008 Chiarello Petite Sirah Roux $45, 2006 D-Cubed Zin Brown vineyard $45, 2008 Lamborn Zin Howell Mt. "Frosty" $42, 2009 Parellel Chard Russian Riv $44, 2007 Vinoce Cab Mt Veeder $45 and Prop. Red Mt Veeder $60 and Showket tasting. info@vinterscollective.com (707) 255-7150 Very cool place that you could visit everyday and not run out of unique wines to taste.

MACPHAIL

851 Magnolia Drive in Healdsburg. Proprietor and winemaker James MacPhail has worked for some of the valley's best producers including Merry Edwards so he's learned a thing or two about making amazing Pinot's. Tastings in the barn (not his cool house next door) by appt only and James does the tasting himself and I was impressed with his knowledge, business skills and marketing savvy to get so much positive press on his wines. But after tasting his Pinot's I now why there is such a big buzz. He oversees 23 different vineyards for his grapes of his wines. Highlights: 2009 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay-Gaps Crown $45 white Burgundy style this is his 1st Chardonnay. 2010 Rose Pinot Noir this very limited wine is fantastic and he is leading the charge for a "Rose Renaissance" in the valley, I'm on board! 2009 Pinot Noir Ray's Vineyard from Anderson Valley Mendocino $49 only 8 barrels made. 2009 Pinot Sonoma Coast Gaps Crown #1 region for Pinot $49, Something special 2003 Pinot Sangiacomo Vineyard 92pts in WS - WOW! (707) 433-4780 http://www.macphailwines.com/

RAMEY WINE CELLARS

25 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg. David Ramey is another producer that doesn't grow their own grapes. Private tasting upstairs in a conference room above where they produce their wine. 8 wines on tap for the tasting. 1) 2008 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay a blend of vineyard only 5,500 cases. 2) 2008 Ritchie Vineyard Russian River Valley a Wente clone Chard originally planted in 1972 only 1,290 cases. 3) 2008 Hyde Carneros, vine selection is old Wente, Robert Young and Long Vineyards 2,300 cases. 4)2008 Hudson Vineyard Carneros only 1,120 cases. You would be happy with any of those 4 big Chardonnays with #4 being the most masculine.And now on to the reds 5) 2008 Sonoma Coast Syrah only $38 with 1,100 cases. 6) 2007 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon that is a blend of 88% Cab, 4% Malbec, 3% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot and 2% Cab Franc very nice wine at $50 with 7,800 cases. 7) 2006 Annum Cabernet Sauvignon - Latin word meaning year as one year proprietary blend. The blend is 96% Cab, 2% Petit Verdot, 1% Cab Franc and 1% Malbec. $110 with only 860 cases produced. 8) Pedregal Vineyard Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon another blend with 16% Petit Verdot with 600 cases produced. I end up buying a vertical of the Napa Cab. info@rameywine.com (707) 433-0870

Wine Spectator's 10th Annual Grand Tour

2011-07-27T05:55:00.000-07:00

This is the 10th annual Grand Tour for Wine Spectator and I've been lucky enough to attend the last 6, but this year it stops in Boston at the Marriott Copley Plaza instead of Marriott Marquis in New York. Its sold out and its a very manageable crowd event though are on one floor versus two in NY.

Here are the wines in tasting order and than a list of faves.
And what better way to start than a big Bordeaux from France and a big Napa Cap and we're off...
1) Chateau Margaux - 2004. WOW!
2) Robert Mondavi - Cab Sauv Reserve 2007 - Another WOW!
3) Rubicon Estate 2007 from Francis Ford - very nice
4) Chateau Mouton Rothschild Pauillac 2005 - it doesn't get any better.
5) Caymus Special Select 2008 - has 15% Merlot and very nice.
6) Chateau Pontet - Canet Pauillac 2008
7) Chateau Rolan de By - Medoc 2008 - I'm really developing a French palate in the last few years. This is amazing and its under $30 for a Wine Spectator Top 100 - Nice.
8) Chateau Smith-Haut-Lafitte - Peassac-Leognan 2008
9) Casa Lapostolle 2008 - Chile. Never know which wines from this company are the good ones.
10)Vina Cobos Malbec 2007 - This is Paul Hobbs from Mendoza, Argentina. And Paul never disappoints.
11) St. Clement Cab Sauv Oroppas 2007 - This blend is Sapporo spelled backwards. Very nice.
12) Chateau St. Jean - Cing Cepages 2007 - 1st Sonoma wine of the night.
13) Hall Exzellenz - Rutherford 2007 - Have loved Kathryn's cab, but this the 1st blend I've tasted from Hall and its amazing.
14) Chateau Palmer - Margaux 2004. Only a few bottles left and we get a taste. Get my travel agent on the phone going to France...
15) Joseph Phelps Insignia 2006 - My Absolute Fave - and stands up to everything tonight.
16) Chateau Giscours - Margaux 2005 - I have to travel to Margaux region of Bordeaux, becoming my favorite region.
17) Chateau Brance-Cantenac - Margaux 2003 - ready to book my flight to France.
18) Chateau du Tertre - Margaux 2005 - This was my other Value Deal of the night - amazing Margaux for under $50 and it has 20% Cab Franc -LOVE IT.
19) Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2005 - South African blend of 69% Cab, 9% Merlot and my fave 22% Cab Franc - had no idea they were making these great blends on that continent.
20) Chateaux Lynch-Bages - Pauillac 2005 - This may have to be the other region I visit in Bordeaux.
21) Sterling SVR Reserve -2007 - Back to Napa - holds up very well after all that French wine.
Food and water break -hydrate, hydrate
22) Signorello Estate Padrone - 2007 - Very nice Napa winery on Silverado Trail.
23) Beringer Private Reserve 2007 - last year they were pouring a '96. This wine is amazing and have to get more.
24) Provenance Cab Sauv Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard - 2007. Wine from some of the best terrior in Napa - many wineries have produced wines from this vineyard and they are all special.
25) Cliff Lede Poetry - Stags Leap District 2007 - 1st time I've had this wine and will make a point to visit this winery in Yountville. This was another WOW!
26) DeLille Cellars Chaleur Estate Red - Yakima 2007 - One of my favorite wineries in Washington, love thier D2 too.
27) Kosta Browne Pinot Noir - Russian River 2009 - this is huge Pinot.
28) Sokol Blosser Pinot Noir - Dundee Hills Oregon 2008 - had to compare these side by side. More floral than Kosta, but like both...would really depend on the food, choose this one for Alaskan Salmon.

29) Domaine Drouhin Pinot Noir - Dundee Hills Oregon 2007 - really starting to like these Oregon Pinots.

30) Maison Louis Latour -Chateau Corton Grancey 2008 - A Grand Cru Pinot Noir based wine.

few more whites and it clears the palate and helps with the purple teeth. :)

31) Gunderloch German Riesling - 2007 - Das Gut!

32) Domaine Chandon Brut - Napa/Sonoma Chardonnay Reserve - Only Chardonnay grapes in this Californian Sparkling Wine - this would be very refreshing on those hot summer days.

33) Roederer Estate Brut Rose' - Anderson Valley - very nice.
34) Gloria Ferrer Brut - Sonoma NV - great sparkler for the price.
35) Schramsberg J. Schram - North Coast 2003 - one of the best from California. Has beat the French in my side by side tastings.
36) Louis Roederer Brut Champagne Premier NV - Great Champagne and its great to try all of these side by side.

37) Chalk Hill Estate Chardonnay - Sonoma 2007. One of my favorite Chards from Sonoma.

38) Planeta Sicilia Cometa - 2008 Italy. 100% Fiano - deep straw color with open fruits like pear on the nose. Very nice.

39) Hess Collection Chardonnay - Napa Su'skol Vineyard 2008.

40) Dow Vintage Port - Quinta Senhora da Ribeira 2008.

And we're done - where are the sliders?

Some of the biggest wines of the night are highlighted - really loved Chateau Margaux, Insignia, Beringer Reserve, but was really impressed by two Bordeaux for price points under $30 Chateau Rollan de By and $50 dollars Chateau de Tertre. Hard to beat. Any time you get to taste this many wines side by side its a special day. And was happy I have a new wine buddy in training now.

Next Wine Spectator Event this October in New York. -Brian

Sandals Emerald Bay

2011-06-06T09:20:00.000-07:00

Sandals Emerald Bay has to be the nicest Sandals located on Great Exuma, Bahamas.

Even though the resort was a capacity you'd never know it - its so secluded and peaceful with white sand beaches plus a Greg Norman 18 hole golf course with an amazing back 9 holes along the ocean.

The radio station is in town for a 2 day live broadcast and they treated us to 2 amazing dinners.

Il Cielo:
Salad - Roasted Portabella Mushroom with Balsamic & Walnut Oil
Soup - Butternut Squash with King Crab Flakes
Main - Duet of olive oil poached Jumbo Shrimp & Rosemary scented Beef Tenderloin, Potato puree and veggie medley.
Dessert - Mousse Trio of Flouress Chocolate Cake.
Paired with the Beringer Chardonnay and St. Clement Oroppas blend.

Barefoot on the Beach:
Salad - Barefoot house salad. Local farmed assosted lettuce, bamboo shoots, hard boiled eggs, marinated tomatoes and onions.
Soup - Lobster, Shrimp & Crawfish Bisque.
Main - Grilled Grouper. Habernaro mango butter, bean cassuolet, Lobster Bisque and baby Bok Choy. Or
Hand Cut NY Strip - Maytag Bleu Cheese butter with crispy onions.
Dessert - Mango Mousse with Chocolate Chiffon cake.
Paired with Kunde Chardonnay and Duckhorn Merlot.

-Brian

FIFTH ANNUAL TASTE of HOPE

2011-03-11T14:55:00.000-08:00

Tribeca - It's that time of year where my friends come out of hibernation looking for invite to be at my table at City of Hope's "Taste of Hope" a benefit put on by the Music and Entertainment Industry.

Enjoy dinner in an elegant setting and participate in silent and live auctions. Space is limited so RESERVE EARLY.

"TASTE OF HOPE" Thursday, March 24, 2011 for more information, please contact Mary Carlzen at (213) 241-7328

Here's a rough draft of what's on store for this year's table.

Champagne Toast Saluti!

"CHARDONNAY CHALLENGE" Napa vs. Sonoma

1) Cakebread Cellars – Chardonnay 2007 Napa Valley

Ripe and vibrant, with a mix of green apple, melon & pear with a touch of light spicy oak. 89 pts WS.

2) Lewis Cellars – Chardonnay 2009 Sonoma Russian River

This opulent full-bodies Chardonnay is crafted from the oldest Dutton Ranch plantings. A citrus menagerie of tangerine, orange rind and lemon cream pie with blossoms, honeycomb and floral spice. Only 1,200 cases made. 95 pts WS.

3) Chasseur – Pinot Noir 2007 Sonoma Coast Joyce

Complex in flavor and balance, at times spicy with floral rose petal, black cherry that ends with a nie mix of acidity, fruit and tannins. Only 795 cases made. 92 pts WS.

4) Mueller – Pinot Noir 2007 Russian River Valley Emily's Cuvee

Complex and earthy, showing mineral, plum, black cherry and anise notes that are full bodied with delicate, floral scents of wilted rose petals. Only 1,125 cases made. 91 pts WS.

2001 considered BEST YEAR in Napa since 1997: Let's Find Out

5) Whitehall Lane – Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 Napa Valley

Wonderful intensity with flavors of ripe, juicy plum, black cherry and wild berry fruit with hints of anise, fresh earth and herbal notes with a long rich, persistent aftertaste. 1999 vintage was #5 on Wine Spectator Top 100 93 pts WS.

6) Dalla Valle – Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 Napa Valley

Rich, chewy currant, blackberry, wild berry and cedary oak flavors. It packs a wallop, but on the finish the fruit pours through to reveal lots of depth and complexity. Only 2,000 cases made. 91 pts WS.

7) Spottswoode – Cabernet Sauvignon 1997 Napa Valley

Elegantly framed, with rich herb, currant, chocolate and black cherry finishing with firm, well-integrated tannins. 4,8256 cases made. 94 pts WS.

8) Diamond Creek – Cabernet Sauvignon 1997 Napa Red Rock

Firm and concentrated with mint, sage, currant and earthy berry flavors that slowly unfold. Has a lot of richness and detail in the finish. Only 800 cases made. 92 pts WS.

BATTLE OF THE BLENDS "MERITAGE"

(created by merit + heritage) Red Meritage Wines must be a blend of at least two of the following: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cab-Franc, Malbec or Petit Verdot. No single grape may make up more than 90%.

9) Opus One – Napa Valley Red Wine 2007

Tight and firm, with a chewy edge to the dried currant, graphite, blackberry and mineral notes. Full-bodied and intense without being weighty, this is well-structured with a complex, persistent finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. 94 pts in WS.

10) Viansa - Ossidiana – Sonoma Red Wine 2005

Full bodied, deeply concentrated with a mix of dry cedary oak, currant, anise and sage. Ends with a wall of chewy tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc and Merlot. Only 500 cases made. 90 pts WE.

11) Cakebread Cellars - Dancing Bear Ranch 2004 Howell Mt. Napa

Intense aromas of Bing cherry, brambleberry and spicy dark plum fruit with enticing floral, sage, tobacco and chocolate, revealing a pronounced minerality with a long persistent finish. 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot & 10% Cab Franc. 92 pts WS.

12) Joseph Phelps – Insignia 2003 Napa

Mild tannins with complex range of rich currant, berry and cherry fruit, cedary oak, hints of anise and sage. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Merlot. Drink now - 2011. 90 pts WS.

13) Flora Spings – Trilogy 2002 Napa Valley

Elegant with a pleasing mix of earth, anise, currant and wild berry that ends with a touch of mineral earthiness. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. 92 pts WS.

14) Pahlmeyer - Jayson 2001 Napa Valley

Rich, vibrant and intensely concentrated with bold currant, plum, black cherry and spicy flavors accented by spicy, toasty oak and finishing with a firm wall of tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cab Franc. 92 pts WS.

And I'm sure we'll have a few surprises bottles in store too - See you there! - Brian

NYC Winter Wine Fest 2011

2011-02-02T06:47:00.000-08:00

Manhattan - Join CBS Radio for the 2011 NYC Winter Wine Fest this Saturday, February 5th at the Best Buy Theatre in Times Square.

There are two tasting sessions one at 3pm and the second at 8pm.

Not sure I could handle both... but with this winter weather its almost worth a try...LOL.

Enjoy a special live Jazz performance on the stage and wines from all over the world, but you know you'll find me at the California tables.

for more info and tickets www.wcbsfm.com & www.nywinefestivals.com

See you there,

-Brian

Magical Golf Week

2010-11-19T06:02:00.000-08:00

Lake Buena Vista - It's the last PGA Tour stop of the year and I arrive at Orlando International for my magical golf week playing in the Children's Miracle Network Classic for the 2nd year in a row.

6 day until show time so there's plenty of time to get in a little golf practice in the DisneyWorld area.

Saturday my buddy Bob joins me for a round at Lake Buena Vista and I break 90 - we're off to a good start.

Sunday there is a chill in the air and my caddy Jeff who plays on the Golden State Tour joins me for a wonderful round at the Waldorf Astoria Golf Club - voted one of the Top 3 clubs you can play in Florida. First tee Jeff snap hooks one into the weeds and I hit a beautiful draw down the middle - who's the pro here? Driver, Gap Wedge, easy par, easy game. This course starts you off easy and then hold on...shoot a 93 in the wind.

Monday back to Lake Buena Vista and we play it from the back tees and I break 90 again, feeling good about my chances in the Pro-AM.

Tuesday we're signed up for practice round on Disney's Magnolia course - this course just looks right to my eye, big fairways and big greens. We zip through the front 9 and we see Rich Beem cut in front of us on 8 and the whole course backs up. PGA Tour Member Jerry Kelly who had been playing behind us catches up to us on the 10th tee and we tell him about Rich and Jerry says; "Those damn pro's think they can cut in anywhere..." And we immediately love Jerry. He says if its slows down he'll wave us up. We had already teed off, so we watch Jerry blast one down the middle, ride out and hit his next shot to the middle of the green. Jerry is practicing putts from all over the green and waves us up. Well I just couldn't aim at him so I'm in the left bunker. I get up to the green and enter the bunker and Jerry goes; "What are you waiting for? we're going to play the back nine together..." Jeff and I play excellent golf with Jerry on the back nine to the point on #16 after we both put our par 3 shots inside his and he goes; "I'd be in trouble with this group..."(as in he'd be losing $$ if he was giving us strokes)"

Have to say that was one of my most enjoyable nine holes in my life and just the right amount of pressure I needed to be ready to play in the Thursday-Friday Pro-AM inside the ropes. We take pictures after the round and hope to pick him in the pairings party tonight, after all last year we played with Troy Kelly (no relation) but think that's our destiny.

Tuesday night at the pairings party we pick 7 from last and choose Dean Wilson and Alex Cejka. (editor's note': In hindsight Roland Thatcher was still available and he shot 63, 64 in the 1st two rounds but we played with him the year before and he shot 75 and missed the cut...so one of my friends joked he plays a lot better without me...very funny)

Wednesday practice round on the Palm course and almost have a hole in one on 16 so I'm feeling good about my game.

Thursday showtime on the Palm course with Dean Wilson my partner for today and Spencer Levin also in the group. I go the putting green for 40 minutes, off to the range, bunker, shot game practice and more putting. We get to the tee and because of the fog tee times are delayed by an hour. So its back to the putting green. Finally its our time to tee off. "And from New York, New York its Brian Thomas" We start on #10 and hit my 3 wood remembering there's a lot more room down the left side and we're off...when two of the ladies from the Chrildren's Miracle Network Telethon's yell "We Love You Brian..."and Dean Wilson makes a joke that I have a bigger gallery than him. On the Palm course the only hole I'm worried about is our 3rd of the day the par 3 #12 180+ yards that the day before a PGA Tour official is on the green trying to determine pin placements and I shanked two off into the woods in his presence. I hit my 4 iron over the flag to the fringe and I am relieved...chip up and make my 3 for 2 and I'm ecstatic. So the adrenline is flowing so much that on the par 5 #13 over 2 lakes I hit my biggest tee shot of the week just in front of lake #2. I'm left with 177 yard all over water and just to be safe hit the 4 iron and WOW! I cleared the lake and the ball rolls up on the fringe pin high. There in 2! Putting from the fringe and just miss tapping in for Birding just missing the natural Eagle, but it's still a 3 on the score card and we're in the red numbers. On the par 4 #14 I hit a big shot into the wind but land in the left fairway bunker with my ball right against the lip on the left side. I'm 205 out into the wind and I can't stand in the trap, so I bend my knees and take a big swing and put my ball on the green...and I'm thinking to myselft"I don't know whose this guy is but I love his golf game..." You know its a good day when I didn't lose a ball until after14 holes. Dean Wilson looks back and says Wow! I end up at -4 under par and Dean is EVEN par. Since Dean is Hawaiian he likes my joke about my idea for Mexican/Hawaiian restaurant called "Mucho Mahalo" much better than he like his game on Thursday and Dean fails to make the cut.

Friday its an early tee time on Magnolia, but my Pro AM partner Alex Cejka withdrew from the tourney. This take a lot of steam out of my effort on Friday, but we get to play with Mike Hulbert from the Champions Tour and have a great round. Missed another Eagle and lots of birdies on Friday. Funny the other pro Greg Owen and I are both wearing the same Adidas Aqua colored shirt. Sorry Greg.

Final tally I finished 7th...seventh from last. But did so much better this year.

Some of the restaurants of the week:

Narcoosee's at the Grand Floridian - great steaks and wine list and view of the fireworks in the Magic Kingdom.

California Grill - atop the Contemporary Hotel - amazing food and a wine list I love with lots of my faves from Napa.

But the one that stands out is Flying Fish Cafe in Disney's Boardwalk area. Their seafood is amazing including the
Signature Flying Fish Cafe Potato-wrapped Red Snapper - Served with Cream Leek Fondue, Veal Glace and Red Wine Butter Sauce. - $36.00
Signature Flying Fish Char-crusted New York Strip Steak - Served with Wilted Greens, Grilled Asparagus, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, Classic Sauce Foyot - $42.00
But the real highlight was the wine. "Pahlmeyer Flight"

Jayson by Pahlmeyer Chardonnay '07. The second label of the winery. 100% native yeast, barrel fermentation, followed by malo-lactic fermentation.
Jayson Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir '06.
Jayson Napa Red '05. A Merlot based Meritage blend.

And on Sunday there was time for one more last round of golf and we had the Palm course all to ourselves and my playing partner was John Schneider - yes that one from Dukes of Hazzard. What a great guy I would tee it up with him anytime.

So I'm a miracle maker for another year but real special thanks goes Al, Craig, Steve, Bill, Pat and everyone at the Children's Miracle Network working together to make a difference in the lives of Children. This year with radio station WCBS-FM in NY we raised over $250,000. Kevin at Disney Golf, Carrie Bronson at WDW Fishing excursions who was our cute guide on Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon. And to my caddy Jeff Wade - who plays on the Golden State Tour - hope you make it on the big tour one day!

It was a very magical week in Orlando and hope I get the opportunity again next year...

-Brian

Grand Tour 2010

2010-05-05T12:11:00.000-07:00

Manhattan – This is Wine Spectator’s 9^th annual Grand Tour event and this was my 4^th year in a row in attendance. The event is at the Marriott Marquis which is just steps away from where the car bombing attempt was last weekend.

And this year my old boss Chad and former co-worker Glen joined me after a huge base meal over at Virgils.

Our first taste of the night is Chateau Mouton Rothschild, than Chateau Lafite Rothschild what a way to start.

Here are the wines in tasting order:

1) Chateau Mouton Rothschild – Pauillac 2003

2) Chateau Lafite Rothschild – Paulliac 2004 (Almost too smooth – liked it better than Mouton)

3) Chateau Pinchon Longueville Baron – Paulliac 2006 (no battle to the 1^st two Chateau’s)

4) Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon - Napa Valley Reserve 2006 (This is a huge wine and will be amazing in 3-5 years)

5) Chateau Pontet Canet – Paulliac 2006

6) Bennett Lane Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Reserve 2006 (My friend Keith is pouring and this vintage is amazing! One of their best will easily get a rating over 90pts) www.bennettlane.com

7) Turnbull Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Weitz Vineyard 2006 (very nice)

8) Chateau St Jean – Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma Co Cing Cepages 2006 (big fruit and a milder finish than the Mondavi or Turnbull

9) Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Special Selection 2007 (big wine)

10) Chateau Hau Bailly Grand Cru Classe – Pessac-Leognan 2007

11) Ten tastes in and we revisit the big Chateaus #1 and #2 again – this time I like the Mouton better.

12) Same as #2

13) Bodegas Caro – Mendoza 2006 made by Barons de Rothschild (Lafite)

14) Rubicon Estate Rutherford 2006 (nice Bordeaux Blend)

15) Penfolds Shiraz Barrossa Valley RWT 2006 (this is huge)

16) Torbreck “The Factor” Barossa Valley 2006 (huge Shiraz blend)

17) D’Arenberg Shiraz McLaren Vale “The Dead Arm” 2006

We take a bathroom break and head up to the 6^th floor and we’re not even a full hour into event.

18) Chateau Haut Brion - Pessac Leognan 1999 (This is the first big WOW of the night and might be the best wine of the night – some other would give this a run for the money if we were comparing same vintages)

19) Chateau La Mission Haut Brion – Pessac Leognan 1999 (Nice but #18 was so much better)

20) Beaulieu Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Georges de Latour Private Reserve 2006 (and what surprised me years ago this Latour no relation to the big French chateaus)

21) Chateau Brane-Cantenac Margaux 2000

22) Chateau Palmer Margaux 2001 (always one of my faves, just a hint of coffee grounds on end of taste – like sprinkles in the your ice cream)

23) Chateau Margaux 2001 (2^nd big wow of the night)

24) Chateau Lynch – Bages Pauillac 2005

25) Joseph Phelps Insignia Napa Valley 2006 (my favorite wine year in and year out – rumors flying that the 2007 could rate 100pts)

26) Gemstone Tenth Anniversary Yountville 2006 (This is our sleeper pick as a future cult wine – for this wine to taste that good after the Margaux and Insignia – this wine rates!)

27) Chateau Lagrange St. Julien 2006

28) Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Private Reserve 2006 (last year they were pouring the ’95…this one needs a few years)

29) Ferrari Carano Tresor 2006

30) Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2006 (very nice huge cab)

31) Agricola Punica Isola dei Nuraghi Barrua 2006 (Italian pick from Chad)

32) La Spinetta Barolo Vigneto Campe 2005 (Another Italian pick from Chad)

33) Allegrini Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2004 (Chad pick, but is all prunes up front on the taste)

34) Merry Edwards Pinot Noir Russian River Valley Klopp Ranch 2007 (Another wow, maybe one of the nicest pinot’s I’ve ever had – touch of flat cherry coke taste).

35) William Selyem Sonoma Coast Pinot 2007 (very nice)

36) Kosta Browne Pinot Noir Russian River Valley 2008 (This is huge!)

37) Chalk Hill Estate Chardonnay 2007 (one of my favorite chards, we drank this trying to help our purple teeth to no avail…LOL)

38) Schramsberg Reserve North Coast 2002 (Amazing California Sparkling wine)

39) Louis Lator Corton Grand Cru – Charlemagne 2007

40) Frogmore Creek Pinot Noir Tasmania 2006

41) Aldo Conterno Barolo 2005 (very nice)

42) Paolo Scavino Barola 2005 (nice)

43) Roberto Voerzio Barolo 2005 (a 99pts wine)

44) Symposium Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2003

45) Bodegas Colome Malbec 2007

46) Another taste of Chateau La Mission Haut Brion – Pessac Leognan 1999

47) Hess Collection Cabernet Sauvignon Mt Veeder 2006 (will have to remember this one – nice wine)

48) Cliff Leade Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District Poetry 2006 (nice)

Back to the 5^th floor

49) Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore 2007 (another Italian pick from Chad)

50) Dow’s Vintage Port 2007 (Arnold the NE rep from Premium Port Wines is on hand – he has some great Ports www.premiumport.com ran into him a few months ago over at Javitts center tasting where he was pouring Graham’s Six Grapes Reserve Port – good to see him again)

51) Seghesio Zinfandel Sonoma Co Old Vine 2006

52) Mollydooker Shiraz McLaren Vale Carnival of Love 2007 (I know we’re at taste #52 but this is a huge thick and juicy wine)

53) St Clement Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Oroppas 2006 (that’s Saporro spelled backwards)

54) Then we head back to hang out with Keith from Bennett Lane and enjoy more of his Bennett Lane Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Reserve www.bennettlane.com and we head home with a few bottles as door prizes – Thanks Keith and today is Cinco De Mayo so the party continues…Muey Bueno!

-Brian

Masters Merlot Challenge

2010-04-11T15:16:00.000-07:00

Final round of the masters has been very exciting...Phil Mickelson took the lead and some of my La Quinta neighbors were making it interesting - Anthony Kim (LQ County Club) charging and 50 year Freddie Couples (Madison club) could have been a contender without a bogey and double bogey on the back nine.Tiger up and down round - still exciting to watch.

Its a nice day in the 70's in the NY and to make today's Masters Coverage even more interesting - put a few Merlots into the mix.

1) Duckhorn Decoy Merlot - 2007

2) Robert Mondavi Merlot - 2006

3) Franciscan Oakville Estate Merlot - 2003

Day in and day out for the price hard to beat the Franciscan - always has a nice crisp oak finish.

Duckhorn for being the newest of the bunch is very tasty.

And have to say over the years have become a fan of the Mondavi - its actually the biggest of the 3 and I suspect some Cab is in the mix too.

Phil still has the lead and after the year with his wife Amy& his mother both having breast cancer it would be great to see him win again - Green Jacket #3. We'll see what happens.

It would have been great to see Freddie a member of the 50+ crowd to win.

-Brian

4th Annual Taste of Hope

2010-03-22T12:34:00.001-07:00

This will be my 3rd year sponsoring the wine for a table at the "Taste of Hope" benefiting City of Hope. I've enlisted some help from Joe to help with the French wines because this year's theme is based on the movie "Bottle Shock" which I'm calling:

Paris Wine Tasting– Pt. Deux in NYC

The movie “Bottle Shock” tells the tale of the “Paris Wine Tasting of 1976" with French judges and a blind tasting of Chardonnay & Cabernet Sauvignon from California and France. California wines won the competition! On Wednesday night 3/24 we offered some new battles! California won a lot again!

Opening Toast - Champagne vs. California Sparkling Wine:
NV - L. Aubry Fils Brut Champagne – 91pts WS
NV - Schramsberg Brut Rosé Mirabelle North Coast – 93pts WS

Chardonnay vs. Burgundy (White):
We have 3 of the top 4 from Paris Wine Tasting including the winner!
2007 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay, Napa – 90pts WS
2007 Chalone Estate Chardonnay, Napa – 92pts WS Wow!
2005 Girardin Puligny Montrachet – Les Folatieres – 93pts WE
2007 Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey Meursault Premier Cru – Les Charmes 92pts WS Nice!

Pinot Noir vs. Burgundy (Red): Not in PWT
2002 Cakebread Pinot Noir – Carneros 89pts WS Surprised everyone!
1993 Laurent Nuits St. George – Les Vaucrains 96pts RP

Rhone:
2006 Joseph Phelps Le Mistral – 92pts WS Another Wow!
2003 Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape - 94pts WS

Bordeaux: Cabernet Sauvignon:
We have 3 of the top 5 from PWT including the winner!
1996 Stag’s Leap Fay Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa – 92pts WS
1997 Ridge California Monte Bello – 91pts RP Very Nice
1988 Leoville Las Cases – 95pts WS My Fave
1998 Chateau Quinalt - L’Enclos – 94pts RP

Vertical Jump 10 years - Meritage: Joseph Phelps Insignia
2005 Insignia 92pts WS Amazing!
1999 Insignia 91 pts WS
1995 Insignia 94pts WS - Excellent!

Desert!
1983 Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port – Portugal – 94pts RP

Discovering Wines on Moving Day

2010-03-15T14:36:00.000-07:00

What's funny you can live in Manhattan, pay 3.5% city tax and look at New Jersey or live in New Jersey and look back towards New York.
Spend the last year in Jersey City on Hoboken side of the tracks and I mean right on the track...just moved to Jersey City-Newport area right on the water.
Before and After...

I like trains a lot, but not so much when you live on the tracks...that's just a little too much Cho-Cho.
And my first love is the water, so having the Hudson River in your backyard is hard to beat.

Good news on moving day I found a bunch of wines I didn't even know where there...

Nice vertical of Whitehall Lane Cabernets 1999, 2001, 01 Reserve and 2002 Reserve.
Flora Springs Rutherford Hillside 1999, 2001.
A vertical of Flora Springs Trilogy - 3 years.
Vertical of Magnificat back to 1999.
Vertical of Mt. Veeder Cab back to 2001.

And a lot more wine I need to drink now. Everyone should clean out their cellar every so often - bet there are bottles you don't even know you have are in prime years for drinking.

Finally peace and quiet while working in New York - now I wake up to the sounds of Geese. Whew!

-Brian

Fresh Night of Wine for Women at City Winery

2010-03-05T09:00:00.001-08:00

CBS Radio invites you to a "Fresh Night of Wine" for working women next Thursday
3/11 at City Winery, 155 Varick Street SoHo Manhattan.

Tastes Amazing Wines from France, Italy and California paired with a tasting menu from c
celebrity chiefs ANNE BURRELL and LEE ANNE WONG.

Celebrate for the all inclusive price of $75 and guys don't worry you're invited too.

It's a Fresh Night of Wine for Working Women, Next Thursday 6PM at CITY WINERY on Varick in SoHO MANHATTAN

PURCHASE TICKETS NOW AT http://www.divinale.com/

Wine Spectator's "GRAND TOUR" in NY 5/4

2010-03-04T08:20:00.000-08:00

Wine Spectator puts on two event a year in Manhattan and this is the one you don't want to miss.

WINE SPECTATOR's Grand Tour describes as tasting event you will remember for a long time to come. Read about last years event below where Harlan Estate Cab was my favorite wine of the night.

Tuesday, May 4, 2010Marriott Marquis 1535 Broadway7—10 pm Order Tickets Now

• All wines are Wine Spectator's top-scoring selections
• Meet and mingle with many winery owners and/or winemakers
• Taste wines that are hard to find—discover new favorites
• Includes a light buffet to complement your evening
Tickets are $200 each

You will never have the opportunity to taste so many of the world's finest wines side by side by side. So how does Joseph Phelps Insignia stack up agaist Chateau LaTour go and you'll know...see you there.

-Brian

Walt Disney World Visit

2010-02-23T16:29:00.000-08:00

Lake Buena Vista, FL - We're at Walt Disney World for a live broadcast with NY Radio station Fresh 102.7.

And also had some great new restaurants like Kouzzina a new restaurant at Disney's Boardway from celebrity chef Cat Cora featuring Mediterranean style cuisine and one of the highlights was her wine called "Coranation" this is a joint effort with Cat and Marco DiGiulo of Girard Winery. She is producing a Russian River Chardonnay and Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir - both wines are fantastic and affordable too.

And traveled across town to Winter Park for "The Wine Room on Park Avenue" this wine bar features the enomatic wine serving system so you can sample different wines from around the world including Screaming Eagle for $75 2oz taste. Why not?

And of course we found time for rounds of golf at Shades of Green course Palm and Magnolia. Morning man Jim beat me by 1 UP in matchplay over 15 holes and family friends Ken & Cheryl joined me on a unseasonalby cold Saturday morning where Ken was nice enough to let me win. The sun finally came out at noon and we went over to Osprey Ridge for a great lunch.

The Orlando area sure has changed from my days there in the 80's. One of the highlights was stopping at the outlet malls where visiting the Adidas store I purchased every color of mock turtle necks for my return to NYC.

Next working adventure is off to Sandals in the Bahamas in April...can't wait its snowing again in NY...brrrrr.

-Brian

Arnie at Luna Wine Tasting at the Cellar in Old Town La Quinta

2010-01-27T06:23:00.000-08:00

Even though it was pouring outside - everyone was in good spirits, after all it was Bob Hope Classic week in La Quinta and Arnold Palmer was on hand for a Luna Wine Tasting at The Cellar in Old Town.

Luna produces some fine wines including Sangiovese and a Arnold Palmer Reserve Cabernet.They also have a line of wine with Arnold Palmer's name and it is the house wine at his restaurant "Palmers" in La Quinta.

It's a great week when you meet Arnold, break 90 a few times and even see Big Horn Sheep at the Palmer Private course at PGA West.

Old Town La Quinta is a great spot with Hog's Breath Inn, Devanne's, Desert Sage and El Ranchito all with in a few blocks of each other...-Brian

New York Wine Experience

2009-10-25T17:11:00.000-07:00

Manhattan – Marriott Marquis

Sponsored by Wine Spectator and benefits the Wine Spectator Scholarship Foundation which awards grants to students pursuing careers in the wine industry.

The 2009 Critic’s Choice Grand Tasting International Wine Tasting had 256 wineries for tasting and they all scored over 90 points in Wine Spectator.

You rarely have the opportunity to taste the best wines in the world side by side. This really gives you the opportunity to fine-tune what you really like and come up with some new favorites.

Do you really like the big French Bordeaux or the California Cab and blends? For me that is a tough choice – my taste buds are all California, but I really appreciate the French wines which are amazing when you get to taste an older vintage. This was evident when my old boss opened up a 1968 Chateau de Beaucastel – that goes in my all time top 10.

And when you get to sample fines wines like this – you’ll know you already like them if you decide to spurge at dinner

Here’s my Top 15 favorites in order of preference from Friday night, October 23:

1) Harlan Estate ’05 Napa Valley blend of Cab, Merlot, Cab Franc and Petit Verdot. Two words ‘ Wow Wow
2) Chateau Mouton Rothchild Pauillac 2005
3) Joseph Phelps Insignia Napa Valley 2006
4) Chateau Lafite Rothschild Pauillac 2003
5) Beringer ’95 Napa Valley Cabernet – This has an old style French taste – amazing.
6) Chateau Latour ’95 Pauillac
7) Chateau de Beaucastel ’07 Chateauneuf-du-Pape – Nice now but will be amazing in about 5 or more years.
8) Paul Hobbs ’06 Oakville Beckstoffer To Kalon Cabernet
9) Dalla Valle – ’06 Napa Cabernet – this is special and very limited – want to revisit in 3 years.
10) Pahlmeyer Napa Valley 2006
11) Chateau Margaux – Grand Cru Classe 2001 – one of my favorites
12) Staglin Family Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford 2006
13) Taittinger Brut Blanc de Blancs Champagne 1998
14) Chateau Palmer Margaux 1999
15) Louis Roederer Brut Champagne Cristal 2002

California Faves
Shafer Stags Leap District Napa Cab Hillside Select 2005
Caymus ’03 Napa Cab – Special Select – always one of my favorites – never turn down the opportunity to drink this!
Cliff Lede “Poetry” Stags Leap Napa Cab 2005
Patz & Hall Pinot Noir Russian River Valley 2006
Hall ’06 Napa Cab – Kathryn was on hand and looks as good as the wine tastes
Bond ’05 Napa Cabernet – very nice.
Dominus Estate ’06 Napa Valley
Diamond Creek ’04 Napa Valley Volcanic Hill
Etude ’05 Napa Cab
Snodew Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Reserve 2006
Robert Mondavi Cab Napa Valley Reserve 2006
Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon St Helena Family Estate Grown 2006
Far Niente ’02 Napa Cab
Opus One Napa Valley 2006
Ferrari-Carano Tresor 2006 Sonoma Cab blend
DuMol ’07 Russian River Pinot Noir
Duckhorn ’05 Napa Cab
Heitz Wine Cellars – ’04 Napa Cab
Dolce Late Harvest Napa Valley 203
Lewis Cellars 2006 Napa Valley Reserve Cab
Pride Mountain Sonona-Napa Counties Reserve Cabernet 2005
Ramey Napa Valley Cabernet Annum 2006
Rubicon Estate 2006
Silver Oak ’05 Alexander Valley bonus taste of Twomey Pinot Noir
Stags Leap SLV Napa Valley Cabernet 2000
Twomey – Pinot Noir bonus taste at the Silver Oak table – absolutely amazing!
Chateau St. Jean – ’01 Cinq Cepages Sonoma Cab – Big fan of this wine and winery on Hwy 12 in Sonoma – they make great Chardonnays too.

France:
Chateau Haut-Brion 2003
Perrier Jouet Brut Champagne Fleur bottle 1999
Louis Latour Corton-Charlemagne ‘07
Chateau La Fleur – Petrus 2005
Pol Roger Brut Blanc de Blancs Champagne 1999
E. Guigal Cote-Rotie 2005
Chateau La Mission Haut – Brion 2003
Krug Brut Champagne

Others:
Cloudy Bay ’08 Sauv Blanc – great wine, but I really like their Chard better – my taste.
DeLille Cellars – ’05 Red Mountain Cabernet – one of the best from Washington.
Dow’s Port ’07 Vintage Port
Gaja SPERSS – 2004 blend of Nebbiolo and Barbera
Graham’s Port
Penfolds Shiraz RWT 2006 which I can remember Real World Taste

Ron Parker attended the event with me and we both tasted over 50 wines. The big sushi dinner before the event followed by turkey burgers and kareoke at Mr Biggs helped.

And the best part a lot of the entry fee is tax deductible.

Can't wait until the next one...

-Brian

Family Winemakers at Ft Mason in SF

2009-08-06T08:45:00.000-07:00

Here are the details on one of my favorite events to attend and its all California wine!

Celebrate Wine With Family Winemakers Of California Festival Pavilion
Wine lovers have reason to rejoice this summer when Fort Mason Center hosts a distinctive celebration of viticulture. August sees the return of the Family Winemakers event.
Attend any Family Winemakers tasting event and you'll see happy faces above glasses of red and white wines produced in small lots by independently owned wineries, many run by multigenerational families. The reason for all the smiles is that the wines are quite good and the atmosphere is very welcoming as wine enthusiasts gather to celebrate another year of the vines.
Family Winemakers is an association of more than 700 small wine producers, vineyards, and wine industry suppliers throughout California. Many of the members participate in the annual tasting events, sharing samples of their best varietals with members of the wine trade, the media, and the public.
The Family Winemakers tasting event is open to the public on Sunday, August 23, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. and has additional tasting hours and dates for the trade on Sunday and Monday, August 24. For more information on admission and the wineries, visit www.familywinemakers.org or call (916) 498-7500.

Magnificat Birthday Weekend

2009-07-18T20:45:00.001-07:00

It was nice for Franciscan to schedule their Magnificat release party on my birthday, so I put together a nice balance of fun for a long weekend in Northern California.

Starting off day 1 of my birthday weekend with a round at Pebble Beach on Thursday - its an up and down round, but par a bunch of holes.

Stop by Petar's in Lafayette to see my friend - Dave that is still performing there after all these years. They did a nice remodel on the restaurant. But the St. Mary's crowd has taken over.

Friday morning its a round of golf at Pittsburg's Delta View - front nine was a little shaky but play 5 over on the back nine. My buddy Gary beats my score by 10.

For my birthday - Gary brings over a bottle of Joseph Phelps Bachus - 2004, we pay the corkage at Grissini's and have a great Italian dinner.

Now its time to still check Friday wine tasting at Wine Thieves (http://www.winethieves.com/) Jim and Ben are there, but the tasting doesn't come close to the Bachus we had earlier. I purchase a mixed case to fill some gaps in my current collection.

Saturday making a change by having a big breakfast for a change before heading up to Napa.

1st stop in Napa - Robert Sinsky on Silverado Trail. Love their Cabernet Franc and their Marcein red blend.

I have worn out my Joseph Phelps vest - so a quick stop to buy a new one, but what the heck - let's taste some wine too. Chardonnay, Pinot and a Merlot was on the tasting which they hadn't made since 2002. Normally the Merlot is reserved to blending in the Insignia. They were also pouring the 2006 Cabernet and of course Insignia. As a bonus we get a taste of 2005 Bachus.

Now its time to head over the Franciscan - we zip over on Zinfandel lane back to Hwy 29 and we make it on time. There was a private tasting with Janet Myers which I scored by being one of the 1st to register for the Magnificat tasting. Which is their Meritage blend.
Janet speaks to us about oak and its effect on wine. We get to try the recent vintage of Cabernet that is in Light, Medium and Heavy toast. Most of us like Medium toast the best. But we also mix all three to create own blend before heading into the library for the 2006 Release.
They are pouring 5 different vintages of Magnificat today. I like to drink Newer to Older, but speaking with Janet Myers she like to do the opposite. For me my taste buds have to warm old to the older vintages. Janet said the fruit in the newer vintages can over power the older vintages.
I start with the 2006 - still a little tight for me today, but then I decide to take her advice and jump over the 2001 and its amazing and better yet one of my favorite wine hosts is working the room with the '01 - Tom...who years ago we called Bob all day before realizing the mistake. He's a midwest guy and normally only works on Sunday. He's one of the best in Napa.
I jump over the 2003 which was in little 375 ml bottles and learn that the wine ages faster in smaller bottles. The '03 is fantastic too. Back into the limited access and there is music - two woman playing violins, great food - the Kobe beef sticks and the Salmon are very tasting with Franciscan's blend. The last vintage I taste is the 2004. Very nice, but you can't beat the 2001.
But then we find out that a wine club member brought in a 1989 Magnificat...you had to go into the 2006 room and say; "I heard a rumor..." Gary and I get the last two tastes of the '89 from the decanter. It has been well cellared, the cork looks good and how many times do you ever get to taste a 2o year old Napa blend. But now that's gone it back to see Tom with the 2001 and I camp out there for the remainder of the afternoon. Normally I like wine 3-5 years old, but the '01 is perfect with an amazing finish.

We were going to stop at Auberge for a burger, but we had some much food at Franciscan we head back to the East Bay.

It's Saturday night, but I'm too tired to head out.

Maybe golf in the morning.

It's been a great birthday - year 49 is off to a good start.

-Brian

MORE NAPA SUMMER FUN

2009-06-11T09:17:00.000-07:00

ROBERT MONDAVI SUMMER CONCERTS

6/27 B-52s
7/4 Preservation Hall Jazz Band with fireworks
7/11 Ozomatli
7/18 Natalie Cole with Napa Valley Symphony
7/25 KC & Sunshine Band
8/1 Smokey Robinson

FRANCISCAN MAGNIFICAT TASTING

coming up on 7/18 www.franciscan.com

NY Summer Hot Spots

2009-05-21T09:02:00.000-07:00

The Pony - American Beer Bar 44th & 10th Ave in Hells Kitchen. Rotating american beers on tap. Sister restaurant to Lansdowne Road. Another reason to party in the old neighborhood. Say Hi! to Dan for me! And keep track of your beer tasting - free shirt after 100 beers (not in one setting please)

Just opened NY's Largest Beer Garden "Studio Square" huge outdoor space and grill 20 beers on tap. 35-33 36th Street, LIC, NY http://www.studiosquarenc.com/

McGarry's Pub grand opening of Summer Beer Garden with $20 mix buckets of Mexican beers. Weekend brunch $11.95 417 9th Ave 212-810-2115

Hoboken Bar & Grill: On Washington - over 60 beers - taste them all and you make their hall of fame. Fantastic Food and outdoor seating. Yours truly 1st member of beer club...but still have some beers to consume.

Dog's Ear Bar: On Hudson in SoHo - new restaurant and bar opened right next door to our new CBS studios. They must have known about us moving down...nothing on tap yet, but good beer selection. Excellent Bacon Cheeseburger, Cobb Salad, Salmon, Fish & Chips and more. Very nice setting.

Water Taxi Beaches: they're expanding with one on Governor's Island (7/4 opening) and South Street Seaport at the north end of Pier 17 - opening May 10. Great concept and a lot of fun. Bring the beach to the city!

Summer Events in Napa

2009-05-15T10:44:00.000-07:00

Napa Valley Festival Del Sole - July 17-25 Music fine wine art and more at spectacular Napa Wineries http://www.fdsnapa.org

Ravenswood Release Party - Saturday Aug 29 The home of No Wimpy Wines is releasing the 2007 Vineyard-Designate wines. Single vineyard Zins. Ravenswood also offers Morning Tour & Tastings at 10:30 - see who says it has to be noon? Or Afternoon Vineyard Wine & Cheese Tour at 3pm. Weds 5:30 - 7:30 - after hours with Uncle Bob - Ravenswood wines with snacks and Bob! www.ravenswood-wine.com

More events as they come in...put them on my blog so I can find them again.

-Brian

Taste of Hope Wine Dinner

2009-04-02T06:30:00.000-07:00

April 16, 2009

Tribeca-Manhattan, NY. - The Hope’s 3rd Annual "Taste of Hope" Dinner and Wine auction to support City of Hope was a huge success last week. Raising a record breaking $225,000 at the event that was easily the heaviest gathering of the entire music and radio business in years with LA Reid, Steve Bartels, Richard Palmese and a couple of former NY Knicks John Starks and Allan Houston were in attendance. Learn about last year's event >>

As a table wine sponsor I lined up what turned to be an amazing evening for everyone at table #16. This was evident when we made a lot of new friend when they heard what we were drinking;

Starting with a nice Champagne Toast from Chad Brown (who hired me in NYC).
We get into Califorinia' Greatest Hits:

1) Champagne Toast - Bollinger Champagne (not from Cali...)

2) Cakebread Cellars – Chardonnay 200 Napa Valley

3) Cakebread Cellars – Chardonnay Reserve 2005 Carneros Napa
Drink now -2011. Consistently scores 90+ pts in WS.

4) Duckhorn – Merlot 2006 Napa Valley
One of the Napa’s biggest Merlots. Drink now – 2009. 90 pts in WS.

A Salute to Robert Mondavi and his Napa Cabs scoring over 90 pts in 2000’s and 1990’s
VERTICAL TASTING – Different Vintages of same wine *bonus taste

*) Robert Mondavi – Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Napa Valley
Best from now – 2018 92 pts in WS.

6) Robert Mondavi – Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 Napa Valley
Best from 2008 – 2018 95 pts in WS. Very Nice

7) Robert Mondavi – Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 Napa Valley
Best from 2005 – 2012. 94 pts in WS. This was fantastic too!

*) Robert Mondavi – Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2000 Napa Valley. Best from now – 2011. 90-92 pts in Parker recent tastes& 90pts in WS. Although no considered a great year for Napa this was very nice for 2000 vintage.

9) Robert Mondavi – Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 1999 Napa Valley
Best from now-2012 94 pts in WS. This was spectactular!

10) Robert Mondavi – Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 1996 Napa Valley
Drink now - 2011. 95 pts in WS. This wine has held up well and maybe one of the finest expressions of a big Napa Cab - Thanks Bob!

MERITAGE - BATTLE OF THE BLENDS
(Merit + Heritage) Red Meritage Wines must be a blend of at least two of the following: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cab-Franc, Malbec or Petit Verdot. No single grape may make up more than 90%. The price point doubles in each of these bottles. ($60, $125, $240) And people were surprised that Trilogy at that price point holds it own!

11) Flora Springs - Trilogy - 2003!

12) Rubicon Estate - 2002 Rutherford, Napa Valley
A Bordeaux expression in Napa. Co-owned by Francis Ford Coppola. Drink now - 2012. 91 pts in WS.

13) Joseph Phelps – Insignia 2001 Napa Valley
Meritage blend (Cab , Petit Verdot and Malbec. A more recent vintage of Insignia finished #1 on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 list and the price skyrocketed! Drink now - 2012. 94 pts in WS.

http://www.cityofhope.org/giving/fundraising-support-groups/music/taste-of-hope/Pages/default.aspx

Here's what a typical table looks like...some of the finest wine assembled...

Where's all the food?

Susquehanna Heartland Wine Trail 2009

2009-03-29T16:45:00.000-07:00

Altoona, Pa - I met up with my parents and good friends Ken, Cheryl, Carl, and Michelle hopped aboard the bus for a tour of the six wineries in the Susquehanna Heartland.
The wineries are all spread out, so we only made it to four.

The Juniata and Susquehanna River Valleys are beautiful even though spring has not arrived yet. Note - The Susquehanna River which actually starts in upstate NY is one of the largest fresh water sources of the Chesapeake Bay. OK enough water trivia…

1st stop was Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery – close to State College home to Joe Pa and Penn State. Starting with the Reserve Chardonnay - $18.99 very clear and has seen very little oak – which is the trend lately to show case more fruit flavors. On to the Reds…Montage $15.99 their version of a Meritage blend. Cabernet Franc $13.99 my fave for this winery and a new grape which I unfamiliar – Chambourcin $11.99. Had the aroma of a Pinot Noir. That’s it for their dry winers – the local favorite is one called Tailgate Red which comes in 1.5 Liter bottled perfect for tailgating at Penn State.
My purchase here was a sweet/sour mustard. http://www.mtnittanywinery.com/

For a point of reference I brought a long a bottle of NY wine –Bedell Taste blend and a & Washington Wine – Northstar Merlot. BTW – no comparison to PA.

According to the arrow Ken seems to think there's a bigger attraction than the wine...

15 minutes later we made it to our 2nd stop Brookmere Winery located in a stone & wood bank barn in the beautiful Kishacoquilla’s “Seven Mountains” Valley.
Start with a Niagara Spumante that’s very tasty, then on to the a nice collection of reds.
Here’s the Chambourcin again $11.00 – dead ringer for Pinot. Autumn Red $10.00 thin, but pleasant. Cabernet Franc $13.50, then 1st red to catch my attention – Carmine full flavor with a nice pepper finish. Than another surprise Alexander Red – blend of their Chambourcin & Cab Franc – very nice at $15.50. The Cabernet Sauvignon was just OK and they had a crazy red called Red Foxx that is sweet & spicy at same time – think hot & sour soup – it was interesting. But the big winner with our group where the fruit wines like “Tears of the Goose”, “Frog Hollow” and their #1 wine is called “Berries Gone Wild” Ken and I realized we’re not in Napa and start to embrace these fruit bomps.
http://www.brookmerewine.com/

Ken and my Dad get into the spirit at Shade Mt. while Brian & Cheryl pose out front.

It’s a longer trip on Rt. 522 to Shade Mountain Winery in Middleberg, PA and somehow a bigger bus has beat us to this winery. Shade Mountain has a nice beautiful deck overlooking 60 acres of vineyards and there are 43 wines to sample – YES 43 at one winery.
Starting with the Reds; Merlot-Dry $10.99 ok but a little chalky finish, Pinot Noir $10.99 not bad but is lacking structure. Sangiovese $9.95 was very pleasant as was the Cab Franc and Cab Sauv both $11.99. Unlike the other wineries no limit on how many you wanted to try here…so Porque No! (so why not?)
Bad Moose Mead – sweet honey wine – that oddly enough was very tasty. Six Dwarf’s Mint Wine – where are my Girl Scout Thin Mint Cookies to complement this wine…and by the way – only 6 dwarfs, because one took off with Snow White.
They have a whole bunch of Fruit Wines: Plum, Cranberry, Strawberry, Cherry, Blackberry, Raspberry, Blueberry and Smokehouse Apple – very nice.
http://www.shademountainwinery.com/

After 3 wineries somehow I'm the only one who can still read a map...and our driver isn't drinking? The bus driver get us to our 4th winery on the other side of the Susquehanna River - Spyglass Ridge Winery near Sunbury.
There is a live band and damn that huge bus beat us here too, but there are over 20 wines to sample and there is a good food spread.
2005 Chardonnay – pleasant – aged in PA American Oak for 18 months. 2004 Chambourcin – 28 months in oak and is more hearty than the other Chambourcin wines of the day. 2005 Cab Franc Reserve – where they mix in 5% of Chambersin and this wine is almost sold out.
The most requested wine here is one called “Tam’s Red” deep and rich in color with cherry notes – perfect with dark chocolate and only $10.00
Some of the fruit wines were “Tommy Appleseed” which tasted like biting into an apple and “Sour Cherry” a wine they describe like tasting like summer and I agree this would be refreshing on a hot August day.
http://www.spyglassridgewinery.com/

We ran out of time to visit the other two on the trail.

Just south of Spyglass is Benigna’s Creek Winery in Klingerstown. http://www.bcwinery.com/

And farther downriver is Hunters Valley Winery that has been in operation for over 20 years and has just moved into a new building that has breathtaking views of the Susquehanna River. Sit on the porch and watch the Millersburg Ferry cross the river in the summer…good plan. http://www.huntersvalleywines.com/

Ok so it wasn’t Napa, Sonoma, Woodinville or Santa Ynez valley, but with good friends and my parents it was time well spent.
Little did I know there were wineries so close to our family cottage and I’ve been wasting all my time fishing…

-Brian

For more info visit: http://www.pawinetrail.com/

California Wine Experience in NYC

2008-10-26T06:59:00.000-07:00

Manhattan - Wine Spectator hosts a few events in New York every year, the earlier one was the Grand Tour.

The California Wine Experience is an opportunity to the best that California has to offer.
Most people will never get the chance to taste this many fine wines in one location. It would take weeks to visit all these Napa wineries.

This time I tried to keep the order of the wines tasted for future reference.

1) Snowden Cab
2) Shafer Hillside Select (first Wow wine of the night)
3) Spottswoode (nice)
4) Silver Oak - Napa
5) Staglin -this is their blend (2nd Wow)
6) St. Clement Oroppas (nice but the other wines were bigger)
7) Joseph Phelps - Insignia (still one of my all time favorites)
8) Pride Mountain
9) Quintessa (very nice blend)
10) Lewis Cellars (for all the hype on this wine I was disappointed)
11) Plumpjack (SF's Mayor Gavin Newsome is one of the founders)
12) Paradigm
13) Opus One (a meritage blend before the name existed)
14) Pahlmeyer (Napa Valley Blend - this is fantastic)
15) Rubicon (best vintage I've tasted from them)
16) M by Michael Mondavi (1st time I've tasted his wine - very nice - lots of fruit up front)
17) Peter Michael (nice)
18) Nickel & Nickel
19) Neiman (blend 1/3 Cab, 1/3 Merlot & 1/3 Cab Franc)
20) Stag's Leap Wine Cellars - SLV
21) Sterling (very nice wine)
22) Chateau St. Michelle - Syrah (odd that a WA wine is at the CA Wine Experience)
23) Domaine Carneros
24) David Bruce - Pinot from the Santa Cruz mountains.

and this was just on the 6th floor, now down to the 5th floor

Rochioli Chardonnay (one of my faves)
Darioush (beautiful tasting room on Silverado Trail)
Duckhorn Merlot
Northstar Merlot (Another WA wine)
Araujo Cab - this is one of Napa's cult wine - fantastic!
Harlan Cab - another big Napa wine.
Barnett
and topped off the night with Kevin from Bennett Lane - they used to call it Primus, but have dropped that moniker from their top of the line Cabernet.

There were some other great wines on the 5th floor that I didn't make it to:

Paul Hobbs, Dunn, Far Niente, Col Solare, Grgigh Hills, Chalk Hill, Groth, Girard, Hall,
Etude, and more.

Emerald Isle Golf

2008-07-29T12:53:00.001-07:00

Took my first guy's golf trip to Ireland

Here are my favorite phrases of the week besides: "another Carlsberg beer..."

1) "Just a wee bit left..."

2) "This club will do you no harm" obviously my caddie didn't see me play Port Rush the day before...

3) "I heard a rumor that Irish golf courses actually have fairways"

4) "Have you ever considered playing tennis over here - we might be able to find your ball"

I had a great time and no golf clubs were injured in Ireland, but that might have been a good idea.

It was a trip of a lifetime - 10 rounds of golf on 8 days/7 nights on Ireland's best courses.

Luckily found a direct flight into Belfast:

Day One: Portstewart Golf Club with accomodations at Bushmills Inn.

Day Two: Ballyliffin Golf Club - "Old Couse" for two rounds

Day Three: Royal Portrush Golf Club - "Dunluce Course" for two rounds.

Day Four: can I stll walk? Royal County Down Golf Club - Slieve Donard Hotel

Day Five: County Louth (Baltray) Golf Club - Westin Dublin Hotel

Day Six: Royal Dublin Golf Club in the morning followed by The Island Golf Club in the afternoon.

Day Seven: The European Club

Day Eight: sleep the whole way back to New York.

Can't wait to see how different the golf courses are in Ireland - the weather will be unpredictable and the pubs should be fun - exactly which wine goes with fish & chips?

And I Learned a long time ago not to go drink for drink with the Irish...I think I've learned.

-Brian

Wine Country Weekend in Sonoma

2008-07-17T12:44:00.000-07:00

From time to time I receive invitations for cool wine events - this one is from Ferrari-Carano. Their winery is close to Lake Sonoma and is on Dry Creek Road which produces some of the best Zin's in the world. I put these on my blog otherwise they get lost in the shuffle - Brian

Ferrari-Carano's Harvest Wine Country Weekend, September 12 - 14, 2008.
Stay at the picturesque and charming Vintners Inn, pick grapes in Ferrari-Carano's vineyards, experience the winemaking process, enjoy lunch at the winery, inspiring wine tastings, and a Winemaker Dinner at John Ash & Co. restaurant!
Package for two includes:· Two night stay at picturesque and charming Vintners Inn, in an upstairs fireplace room with king bed, vaulted ceilings and balcony· Bottle of wine upon arrival· Welcome Reception Friday Night hosted by Teri Rolleri and Winemaker Sarah Quider· Breakfast each morning in the Provence Room· Grape picking, sorting, tasting adventure with Steve Domenichelli, Director of Vineyard Operations, and Sarah Quider· Private Tour of Ferrari-Carano· Private lunch at Villa Fiore· John Ash & Co. Winemaker Dinner hosted by Winemaker Aaron Piotter, and prepared especially for you by Executive Chef Tom Schmidt· 15% off discount coupon for Seasons of the Vineyard, Rhonda Carano's shop on the Healdsburg PlazaSo join us for the harvest...we'll supply the gloves and tools, and you just bring your enthusiasm! Make your reservations early! The cost per couple is $1425. For more information, contact Teri Rolleri, teri@fcwinery.com , or 707.433.6700, ext. 264.

Stratus - Niagara Falls VQA

2008-06-08T08:48:00.000-07:00

Stratus Winery has one of the best looking tasting rooms you'll see. And the wine was up to par with the new construction.

The have a nice white blend and ice wine too, but I was impressed with "Red" a blend of the 5 noble Bordeaux grapes and a little Syrah which creates a fantastic finish. And this helps take a way that thin taste in most red wines outside of Napa.

"Pretty Good Wine - Eh?"

They also make an impressive Cabernet Franc which flourishes in this region. And make sure you try their ice wine to harvest the temps have to be -7 to -10 for consecutive day, by the way that's Celsius.

And Stratus is the 1st "Leed" certified winery in the world making them eco friendly - more information at http://www.stratuswines.com/

-Brian

note: VQA stands for Vintners Quality Alliance Ontario - Setting the standard for Ontario's premium wines. http://www.vqaontario.com/

Upcoming Party at Franciscan

2008-05-20T09:53:00.001-07:00

This is one of my favorite parties at Franciscan:

Magnificat Release PartySaturday, July 12, 2008 at Franciscan WineryCome taste the latest release of Franciscan's flagship wine at this exclusive event open only to wine club members and their guests. RSVP to events@franciscan.com or by calling 707-967-3993.VIP Hour 12pm-1pm: $70 per person. Advanced reservations are required, attendance will be limited. Enjoy passed hors d'oeuvres and special library wines. Each guest will take home a bottle of the newly released 2005 Magnificat signed by the Franciscan winemaking team. Admission to the main event is included.Main Event 1pm-4pm: $40 per person. Continue the party with live music, barrel samples, fantastic food, and Franciscan wines.

City of Hope Wine Tasting

2008-03-17T15:33:00.000-07:00

I'm hosting a table this year at the City of Hope Wine Dinner and Auction.

Saluting California Greatest Hits in Wine

1) Cakebread Cellars – Sauvignon Blanc 2006 Napa Valley
The blend of 89% Sauvignon Blanc, 7% Semillon and 4% Sauvignon Musque creates a mouthwatering aperitif. A rich vivacious white wine with enticing grapefruit, gooseberry, kiwi, green apple and hay aromas. Full bodied on the palate with green apple and citrus flavors. 91 pts - Connoisseurs' Guide

2) Rochioli – Chardonnay 2006 Russian River Valley Estate
The Russian River Valley in Sonoma County produces some of the best Chardonnays with hot summer days and cool nights. The wine boasts a multilayered texture with aromas of pineapples, peach smoke and butter. Produced with 50% new French Oak. Robert Parker consistently rates this wine from 93-94pts and it has scored 97 pts in WS.

3) Williams Selyem – Pinot Noir 2005 Russian River Valley
25th Anniversary. Aromas include blackberries, plums, cloves, black truffle, cola and crème brûlée. Rich tannins accentuate blackberry-plum which complement the creamy, silky, yet fat finish and spicy berry flavors. Robert Parker describes this Pinot Noir at its most seductive and opulent. 94-97 pts -WS.

4) Shafer – Merlot 2005 Napa Valley
The Shafer family is widely regarded as one of Napa’s best Merlot producers. A blend of 86% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Cabernet Franc from their Stag’s Leap and Yountville vineyards. 100% French Oak. Robert Parker says; “has an elegant bouquet of berry fruit, menthol, sweet cherries and spice” One of the biggest Merlots that you’ll ever taste. Consistently scores 92+ pts in WS.

VERTICAL TASTING – Different Vintages of the same wine

5) Whitehall Lane – Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 Napa Valley
100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Commemorative Silver Anniversary Reserve bottle with a glass stopper. This classic, opulent Napa Valley Cabernet has aromas of black cherry and scents of creamy vanilla framed by toasty French Oak. Flavors of blackberry, mulberry and mocha with a long, silky smooth finish. Aged in French and American oak barrels for 25 months. 93 pts in WS.

6) Whitehall Lane – Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 Napa Valley
A blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petite Verdot, this wine has a deep, intense color and a distinct fruit center that begins with black cherry, violet and currant aromas. Well balanced, elegant and sleek on the palate, delivering very long berry and cherry flavors through to the finish. James Laube says; “sharply focused and finishes with a long rich aftertaste.” Aged in French and American oak barrels for 22 months. 93 pts in WS.

7) Whitehall Lane – Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 1999 Napa Valley
Wine Spectator ranked Whitehall Lane’s Cabernet #3 on Top 100 list and the Reserve scored even higher, but wasn’t eligible for the list due to limited production. This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon wine has richly floral aromas of crushed flowers, violet and ripe cherry. The texture of this wine is generously fruity and delightfully silky with flavors of blackberry, blueberry and toasty oak. Aged in French and American oak barrels for 22 months. 95 pts in WS.

few bonus bottles: 1996 Bollinger Grand Cru Champagne and 2000 Flora Springs 25th Anniversary Cabernet - both magnum bottle.

Silver Oak Release Party

2008-01-23T07:51:00.000-08:00

E-mail from Silver Oak:

2003 Napa Valley Release Day - February 2nd
Dear Brian,
Release Day is almost here! We hope you can attend the festivities on Saturday, February 2nd to celebrate the release of our delicious 2003 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

If you are unable to join us, you still have the opportunity to pre-order the new release or Collector Edition online or by calling (800) 273-8809.

Silver Oak COO Tony LeBlanc draws a crowd while opening a 12 Liter on Release Day. This year, we are pouring a limited amount of our 1998 Napa Valley Cabernet from our library.

Join Us for Release Day! Date: February 2, 2008, Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Location: Alexander Valley: Geyserville Estate, Napa Valley: Oakville Estate

Invite a friend to Release Day.

This is Superbowl Weekend - nice combo - Super Wine Saturday followed by Super Bowl Sunday - Go Giants!

Ringing in the New Year!

2008-01-05T21:24:00.001-08:00

A bunch of us had to work on NY's Eve so why not throw a little party when you have the best view in the world from my Times Square office.

To celebrate it was another vertical tasting this time with Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon vintages 2004, 2003 and a 1996 Mt. Veeder Reserve Meritage blend.

We started with the newest first. 2004 very pleasant fruit forward, then the 2003 little more must on the noise and a smoother finish, then on to the reserve granted its a Meritage blend containing all 5 noble Bordeaux grapes....lots of barnyard on the nose, but its only been open for 10 minutes...but it tastes much better like a French wine.

As the night progressed the extra year on the 2003 became more tasty and not until hours later did the '96 settle down and open up.

On the hours before midnight there is a countdown and they list the country where its became the New Year...Rio, Bermuda, and oddly one on the half hour Newfoundland then finally New York.

Leaving Times Square where it was civilized until we got outside the barricades on 8th Ave, still busy on 9th. But not too busy stopping in at Mr. Biggs on 10th Ave for a Turkey Burger to soak up all the wine.

Our offices are supposed to move downtown by next year, so this might have been my last one from Times Square.

But so happy it was another safe NY's eve in NY.

-Brian

Christmas is Better in the Bahamas

2007-12-26T13:30:00.000-08:00

This Christmas time I've been working instead of heading to an exotic location and drinking Margaritas until the new year.

It's now 12:30 AM on December 24th...Christmas Eve and wind is almost blowing out the windows and ths sound of sleet is slapping too.

That's it I have to escape Manhattan.

After a few web searchs on kayak.com, sidestep.com and finally expedia.com I find a nice package deal for the Bahamas at the Wyndham Nassau -Cable Beach. It's a direct flight from LGA so I can be in the sun in the afternoon. Check the forcast and it calls for low 80's perfect!

No traffic today so I make to LaGuardia in minutes and its just a 2.5 hour flight to Nassau - perfect. It about a 40 degree temp swing but I'm wearing a pair of Eddie Bauer pants that are perfect for this situation - the legs zip off to become shorts...exactly what I envisioned upon purchase.

Cool the golf clubs made it and its a quick taxi ride to the hotel - looks like its best days where decades ago, but there is a casino and the golf course is right across the street. I check out course and make a tee time to be 1st out on Christmas day.

On the way back is restaurant called Johnny Canoe's - where I down a few Kalik beer and enjoy Conch chowder and Blackened Grouper.

It's off to the casino - win 3 times on Roulette and its time to crash - I'm dreaming about golf tomorrow...1st tee time is 7:15.

Nice Christmas day golf and its warm - yes this is the present I wanted.

Cable Beach Golf Club is a par 71 at 6453 yards and its my 1st time on this track and I head out with no warm up. It's a magical day and start off with a 42 on the par 36 front and that includes a double bogey. I'm warmed up now on the back nine - Check out this drive over water on #11 287 yd par 4. Missed the eagle chip but walk away with a birdie 3.

I'm one over on the back and start thinking about my score and finish with bogeys on #17 & #18. Finishing the back nine +1 on the par 35. Wow that's still a 78 and as I told the starter it was possible to play 18 holes under 2 hours today my time is 1:55 not bad for a course that I haven't played before...

It's off to the beach to catch up on my tan. I'm on in Nassau for 25 hours, but what a wonderful day. We should enjoy every 24 hours like this.

-Brian

Magnificat Vertical Tasting

2007-12-26T13:11:00.000-08:00

"What is a vertical tasting?"

It's when you experience the same wine from multiple years. This can give you an idea of how the wine will age...better or worse. For me I really love wines around 5+ years old.

The vertical tasting was from Franciscan Oakville Estate, their Meritage blend call Magnificat (is named after a Bach overture) and all three wines with hitting the high notes and we agreed all the wine was magnificent!

The contenders: 2004, 2003 and 2002 Magnificat. Original retail price $50.00. Notice the new label on the '04 vintage.

http://www.franciscan.com/

This is a meritage blend with Cabernet Sauvignon normally the prominent grape and the rest consisting of 4 of the 5 Bordeaux grapes. There have only been two years where there was more Merlot than Cab...the 2000 and 2004 which we're tasting today.

The blends: in order of content.

2002: Cab Sauv, Merlot, Cab Franc, Malbec
2003: 71% Cab Sauv, 25% Merlot, 2% Malbec, 2% Petit Verdot
2004: 50% Merlot, 49% Cab Sauv, 1% Petit Verdot

- Wine opened 30 minutes before tasting at the recommended 66 degrees.

We started with the newest and progressed to the older vintages.

For a wine that was just released this year the '04 hits you up front with great fruit and a smooth clean finish.

Next is the '03 and you can already taste the difference with a lower percentage of Merlot - this is more like a big California Cab - very nice, but so far we digging the '04.

By the time we make it to the '02 that year has had another 30 minutes of aeration. The '02 is a "Wow" Still big up front and a very subtle black licorice finish. Its the only one of the 3 that contains Cab Franc and I feel that is the reason why we all liked this one better - definitely more complex than than the other two.

Second time around we liked the '03 a little better. The consensus was the '04 is great right now and will be amazing in a couple of years. But the '02 was "Amazing" now. And how can you go wrong when you but Cab Franc in the mix...which is always a winner for me.

And most likely after a vertical tasting you'll be horizontal...sooner than later... :)

-Brian

Holiday Parties & Weekend of Wine

2007-12-16T17:32:00.001-08:00

Holiday parties are in full swing.
Friday we had the NY Media Party across the street at the Marriott Marquis. Our new boss christened her office with a pre-party in our offices. Not a bad way to start off the morning...bloody mary's, Vevue Cliquot, '98 Dom Perignon and some 2005 Cloudy Bay Chardonnay from New Zealand and a 2004 Simi Landslide Cabernet - and this was all the pre-game.

The following Monday we had our holiday party at STK, a steakhouse in the Meat Packing District. They have a sister restaurant in Hollywood on La Cienega. Wine was served from a magnum, which appeared to be GS (grocery store) so opted to stick with the Corona...which was a good call because we ended up at Kareoke 1 downtown and sang songs until 1:00 AM. My personal highlights were "Wonderwall" by Oasis and "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey.

Thursday crashed our sister station's holiday party at Taboon, 52nd in Hell's Kitchen.
They were serving a nice French Pinot Noir, but never got a look at the label. After saying Hi to everyone headed over to the CBS Media Party at Black Rock. This was quite the party...one of the highlights was speaking with Harry Smith from the CBS Morning show.

A bunch of us had to work late on Friday so we did a little Pinot Noir comparison. A value 2005-Estancia Pinot Noir - Pinnancles Ranch ($16) versus 2005 Whitehall Lane Pinot Noir - Carneros ($36). (Note originally I incorrectly listed the Whitehall price at $50 which would still be worth it in my book...my friends at Whitehall called and corrected me...sorry Tom)
Surprisily the Estancia isn't bad, but a little thin....very nice floral noise and not overpowering. Next we open the Whitehall -its hot and at first all we can smell is the 14.5 % of alcohol. This a new wine for Whitehall Lane...and well done for the inaugural release. It's a shade darker and has a much bigger finish. After 15 minutes the real bouquet of the Whitehall appeared - and to me it wasn't any contest...but considering you can drink bottles of Estancia to one Whitehall - its a great value, so one of our tasters would go by price...but to my taste buds I'll spring for the Whitehall anyday.

http://www.whitehalllane.com/our_wine/facts/fact_05_Pinot.php

Winter storm warning was in effect for NY - so stayed indoors this weekend. Keeping the comparison going I opened a 2006 Ferrarri Carano Pinot Noir - Russian River Valley ($32). Aged in custom french barrels it features strawberry, raspberry and cherry cola with a hint of spice. Reminds me more of the Santa Ynez valley Pinots. It's already sold out...so stock up on the Whitehall Lane, now that I know its only $36...I'm down to my last few bottles from the case I purchased.

Sunday winter has arrived in Manhattan and after 2 days of Pinot...needed something special to go with making chocolate chip cookies...found a 1996 Franciscan Library Reserve - Cabernet Saugvinon - Napa ($80 originally). The cork looks great and comes out easily which tells me that when they break in half at a restaurant they have the bad habit of storing there wine upright. Using the decanter - the color is still vibrant. Little earthy on the noise, has a touch black licorice with a very solid finish. The wind is whipping outside, but its nice and warm with my big cab inside...

Its the last week before Christmas which is extra work for the programming people. So one night this week I'm hosting a Franciscan Magnificat vertical tasting...'99, '01, '02, '03 and '04. We'll have to order more John's Pizza to make sure we get through all the wine.

And who knows maybe Santa will put a few surprises in my stocking this year.

-Brian

October Events in New York

2007-10-03T12:56:00.000-07:00

Grand Tasting, New York City: October 10, 7-10pm. We're bringing our favorite wines to New York for a Grand Tasting Event! Join us to taste an amazing selection of wines from Napa, Sonoma, Italy, New Zealand, and more. Tickets are just $30 and can be purchased by calling 800.529.WINE option 4 or via email patty.lewis@iconestateswine.com.

Exclusive Members Only Library Wine Dinners, New York City: October 11 and 12, 7pm. These very special evenings will feature hand selected older vintage wines from Franciscan, Robert Mondavi Winery, Mount Veeder Winery, Simi, and more, all paired with a multi course feast from the award winning Bayard's Restaurant. Limited to 20 people, each dinner is a very exclusive and special event. Dinners begin at 7pm. Tickets are $140, call 800.529.WINE option 4 or email patty.lewis@iconestateswine.com to reserve your tickets.

Wine Spectator New York Wine Experience: October 25-27. Robert Mondavi Winery will be among more than 250 of the best wineries/châteaux pouring their wine. All the wineries and châteaux have been carefully selected by the Wine Spectator board of senior editors and have earned a 2007 "Critics' Choice" Award. Email events@mshanken.com for more info. Individual tickets for Thursday or Friday are $250.

Big Week in the Big Apple

2007-09-24T13:23:00.000-07:00

Monday - ratings day - the monthly breakout shows that our radio station has moved all the way up to #2 in NY its only a trend, so no Champagne yet. But Monday night I do break out a '2000 Silver Oak Alexander Valley - sadly it is slightly corked.

The ratings news makes the NY Daily News:
Oldies looking golden at WCBS-FM (101.1)
By DAVID HINCKLEYDAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER Tuesday, September 18th 2007
WCBS-FM (101.1) seems to have rocketed out of the box with its return to "the greatest hits of the '60s, '70s and '80s." while monthly audience estimates for radio are notoriously imprecise indicators, extrapolated figures released yesterday for August show this: Among advertisers' favorite age group, 25 to 54, WCBS-FM had 67,300 listeners in the average quarter hour, nearly double the 36,900 estimated in June under the station's old Jack format. That figure makes WCBS-FM the No. 2 station in the city for August among that age group, trailing only WBLS-FM (107.5 ). In June, WCBS-FM was No. 15. WCBS-FM also had the second-highest share of the total listening pool in August: 4.8%, trailing only WHTZ-FM (100.3). For WCBS-FM that's up from 1.9% in June. "We're excited about our progress," said WCBS-FM program director Brian Thomas. "I've never seen this kind of response to any station."

Weds - I've been wanting to attend one of these for years - Mercedes had a cancellation so I treat myself to the AMG Challenge at Pocono Raceway. It's a quick drive on I-80 West from Manhattan. The AMG Challenge is a racing school and allows you to drive the AMG Mercedes products in race conditions. My fave of the day the new CL63, E63 and the quick CLK 55. Instructors for the day are Tommy Kendall, Brad Noffsinger, Bobby Seymour, Al Unser III, Tony Hunt and my guy was Mike Liebl. Morning sessions include Road Courses and Timed Autocross - my time beat Al Unser - not bad....
In the afternoon - High Performance Carting wearing helmut, neck braces, and full racing coveralls - I win my heat in the prelim's then they take the top 8 times and let us go at it...I finish #2 in the finals - lots of fun. Next was Full Throttle Challenge in the very rare CLK 63 Black Series over 500hp in the coupe only 300 imported to the US -tits basically their F1 Pace Car without the safety light - I do the 1/4 mile in 4.5 seconds that is the fastest I've ever gone in a car.
Then finally open lapping on the oval at Pocono - you follow the lead car and the closer you follow the faster the lead will go - sadly the CLK 63 Cabriolet feels squirrley at 90 miles per hour on the bank while I'm trying to keep up with the lead car CL63, but it flies through the corners. Later I drive the E63 and my lead car is the same - so game on...this car is much more balanced and I surprise my lead by how I'm able to stay on her tail through the corners...she was impressed - I've never driven car this fast and had so much confidence - the AMG products are amazing and now of course I want one...
At the end of the day we have a Champagne toast (Moet White Star) - just a sip I still had to drive back to Manhattan...and on the way home suddenly 90 mph feels slow.

Saturday was supposed to be nice, but it rains so no golf or fishing, but do open a Chateau St Michelle Chardonnay and its a perfect blend of Flavor with a touch of Oak.
Sunday turns out to be nice - play a muni in Westchester called Saxon Woods walk the course and shoot 85 - its the 1st day of fall, but one of the nicest all year in NY. Later in the day open a Millbrook Reserve Cab Franc - not bad for a Hudson River Valley Wine.

It's back to work tomorrow - not ready for the weekend to end...

-Brian

Bay Area Visit

2007-09-11T13:21:00.000-07:00

A visit to Cali, was long overdue...but its been so busy with re-launching CBS-FM in NYC.

And the great way to start the weekend is at the Friday Night wine tasting 5:30-7:00 at Wine Thieves in Lafayette. Schlumberger Wines was on premise pouring some nice whites and blends. Say Hi to Jim, Ben, Rod and Peter. They had some good values like a 2004 Wente Chardonnay for $10.99. Wente was the 1st producer of Chardonnay in California.

http://www.winethieves.com/

After tasting walk across Mt. Diablo Blvd for Bo's Barbeque - the best this side of the Mississippi. Bo is a music lover and has Blues Bands on his expanded patio every Friday Night, plus he has a great wine list. Get the Brisket sandwich and choose your wine.

After some good eats - you have to stop over to Petars and say Hi Dave - best one man show in the East Bay.

Saturday morning would not be complete without a round of golf at Pittsburg's Delta View, a great track for the price. If you can score on this course you can play anywhere.

I always enjoy getting out with good friends Gary and Rich. After an early morning round you have to have breakfast and a Bloody Mary at Zandonella's Sports Bar which has been remodeled. Here's a shot of Gary in his element.

Later in the afternoon Gary and I headed up to Franciscan for the Magnificat tasting.

This was their 20th anniversary of their Bordeaux Blend.

At the event which was private this year the tasting started with a new wine called Fountain Court a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat, and Chardonnay - a little too sweet for my palate, but refreshing on a hot day.

Across the Wine Library we tasted the 2004 Oakville Cabernet and Merlot - both great values under $20 for members.

Next was meeting with winemaker Janet Myers for barrel sample of next year's Merlot in French and American oak...oddly we all like the American oak more - it seems to provide a better finish with the Merlot.

Clos Vineyard Reserve 2003 was the next wine $75 retail price point - fantastic.

The 2003 Magnificat was next and was tasting perfect and today had the best price point of the lot.

The big find was a new high end entry called the 2004 Winemakers Reserve - 100% Cab - big and hearty. We hung out at this table for quite a while and enjoyed the fantastic food. Salmon Kabobs, Burgers with carmelized onions, Shrimp - great food.

Finally what we're here for....the 2004 Magnificat but here's the big surprise - this year its 50% Merlot, 49% Cabernet Sauv and only 1% Cab Franc. The only other year that Merlot was the #1 ingredient was back in 2000.

Here's their descriptor; aromas of dark cherry, black plum with a dark chocolate with notes of sage and tea.

Have to say I like the 2004, but today it was priced higher than the 2003 with a blend of 4 grapes and really think is the better value.

It was another great party at Franciscan and love that is was only open for members this year, so it wasn't like Piranha's on the food. So nice to chat one on one with Janet and Matt.

Well you can't go to Napa and only go to one winery - so had to see my friends at Whitehall Lane - and have always loved their Cab's but the big news was their Carneros Pinot Noir $36 retail. Finally Napa is doing Pinot right and had to get a case of this fine wine.

It's a great day and thanks to all the food at Franciscan, Gary and I have not over done it this time. We hop in the Crossfire Roadster and head back to East Bay.

A great visit and one of those weekends that makes you miss California.

-Brian

Family Wine Makers of CA

2007-08-07T18:37:00.000-07:00

Upcoming Events
August 19th – Family Winemakers of CA – Consumer and Trade Tasting, San Francisco, CA – Fort Mason Center. Family Winemakers of California and Laura Zahtila look forward to welcoming you to the largest tasting of California wines in the world ... a showcase for the state's small, family owned wineries.
Sunday, August 19th 12:00 – 4:00 pm - open to the public and to the trade, no charge to trade Tickets are $45 in advance ($40 for groups of 10 or more), $55 day of event. Call the Fort Mason Box Office, (415) 345-7575, http://www.fortmason.org/boxoffice/index.shtml

2004 Magnificat Release party

2007-07-20T09:40:00.000-07:00

At one of my favorite wineries - Franciscan Winery Saturday August 25, 2007

This year the celebration wil be held exclusively for Wine Club members and their guests. VIP Experience: From 12-1pm, our VIP hour will be hosted by Winemaker Janet Myers. Attendance will be limited to 100 guests who will enjoy passed hors d'oeuvres and special library wines. Each guest will take home a bottle of the newly released 2004 Magnificat signed by the Franciscan winemaking team. Admission to the main event is included. $70 per person.Main Event: From 1-4pm we will continue the party with live music, barrel samples, fantastic food, and Franciscan wines. Attendance will be limited. $40 per person.Advance reservations are required. Please RSVP no later than August 17 by calling 707.967.3993 or via email events@franciscan.com
We hope to see you there!Cheers,Your friends at Franciscan Winery

New York Ratings Party

2007-05-24T12:38:00.000-07:00

Manhattan - We finally got everyone together to celebrate the ratings of Jack-FM for reaching the top 10 in New York.

Tao was the choice, a Pan Asian restaurants featuring featuring Hong Kong, Chinese, Japanese and Thai cuisine and is a favorite destination for celebrities and athletes. Tao has 3 levels and we had hoped to be in the prized "Skybox" which offers unparrelled views. Our reservation was at 6 and by 7 the bar was quite the scene and overflowing onto E. 58th Street.
But the food was amazing from basic Edamame, to Lobster Dumplings, to Kobe Beef and Beef Ribs, Tuna Sashimi and more.

But for a celebration this big I had bought two magnum bottles of 1996 Bollinger Gande Annee Champagne - first bottle for top 10, next one for top 5! There was enough to go around and this Champagne scored scored 95 points in wine spectator. We discussed the grapes that make up Champagne and this consisted of 75% grand cru 25 % premier cru vineyards with 70% pinot noir and 30% chardonnay. It was fantastic and was gone in a matter of minutes.

For dinner almost ordered some Gevrey Chambertin, but went with Californina vino instead so we had a few bottles of 2005 - Flowers Pinot Noir - Sonoma Coast - when looking at California Pinots you can't go wrong with Sonoma - Russian River, Coastal, Napa - Carneros and of course Santa Ynez Valley. The Flowers was a deep ruby red with fruit aromas of cherry, blackberry and a hint of vanilla from the barrel aging. It was the perfect compliment to the Bollinger. Didn't realize at the time that it was really a Pinot Noir night from the Champagne to the red wine. Always a good choice.

No big celebrity sightings last night. But we all had a great time...so much that I was still feeling it this morning...can't wait to the next ratings party.

-Brian

Washington Wine Highway - Woodinville

2007-05-23T07:04:00.000-07:00

This SAT-SUN Wine, food and travel extravaganza featuring over 70 wineries and 50 restaurants, all day Saturday and Sunday, Chateau Ste. Michelle, 14111 N.E. 145th St., Woodinville; $65-$110 (425-481-8300 or www.washingtonwinehighway

Ft Mason Wine Events in San Francisco

2007-05-23T06:26:00.000-07:00

Days of Wine & More Wine

Two major wine events sweep through Fort Mason Center in June. The first is Golden Glass. In its fourth year, Slow Food San Francisco brings this gastronomic and educational event to the Herbst Pavilion Saturday, June 9.

Later in the month, celebrate Pinot Days. On June 30, the Fort Mason Center Conference Center hosts tastings by region, and on July 1 160 pinot noir producers — from California, Oregon, Burgundy, New Zealand, and Australia — pour their current releases as barrel samples at the vast Festival Pavilion.http://www.fortmason.org/features/2007/06/feature02.shtml

The Pinot Days sounds great - to compare all the regions especially Santa Ynez Valley versus Burgundy.

Trout Fishing in PA

2007-05-21T14:01:00.000-07:00

Altoona, PA - Wow its been 20 years since I made it to opening day of Trout Season.

Why is this a good idea? its 27 degrees at first cast, the water is ice cold and I can't feel my feet.

But my friends are in town and wheter we catch fish or not it will be a party.

I head up stream and see guys catching trout right in front of me...I'm using night crawlers, but switch to wax worms (Yummy) and bam on 1st cast land a nice little Brown Trout. I throw it back. Couple more casts and a few Rainbow Trout, all released unharmed.

Now I can't feel my hands either so I head back to camp and where the party is underway.

Burgers on the grill, Middleswarth Potato Chips, Hoagies and ice cold beer.

But of course I did bring a couple of bottles of my old standards. 2003 - Franciscan Estate Merlot and when we eat the smoked Trout a 2003 Mt. Veeder Cabernet.

We've all put in $5 for big fish, but mine weren't keepers, but when I got back and saw this - its like OK who went to the store and bought a Salmon. The little ones in the picture are 12" - that Rainbow is a monster. Over 25 inches and 8 to 9 lbs!

After a couple of burgers and chips and a few cold ones I decide that to try out artificial baits. I know the wax worms are so enticing, but realize I've never caught a Trout on artificials.

This time I head downstream where that monster Rainbow was caught. I'm using a spoon and getting hits, but no hookups. Then I switch to a little Spinner and bam! 1st cast land a nice Rainbow...then a few more.

Our friend Carl has all the gear, he looks like a real fisherman...but no fish.

And at one point no one wanted to use this pink fishing rod they had. His girlfriend tries it and lands fish. So its not the equipment.

We've caught enough fish so its party time. Wow hoagies (a sub) are the best from PA, the smoked trout tastes great with the Merlot and Cabernet. And why not...I have another burger...sadly our party came to an end with the rain...but it was a good time and can't wait to do it again next year.

Silverado Trail Silver Pass Weekend

2007-03-13T12:05:00.001-07:00

Entrance to Joseph Phelps!

Napa less traveled on Silverado Trail with some of the best wineries in the world.

March 24th and 25th – Silverado Trail Wineries Association Silver Pass Weekend 11 am - 4 pm, both days– Join Zahtila Vineyards and 14 other wineries for this annual adventure along the road less traveled. $30 for a two day pass or $20 for a one day pass gives you access to all venues. This worthwhile cause continues to fund the Napa Valley Schools Reading Program, sending books home with youngsters each winter and summer. Buy tickets at http://www.silveradotrail.com/

Great spot for lunch or dinner is Auberge De Soleil - their cheeseburger is fantastic...especially after a day in Napa.

Here's the deal SILVER PASS HOLDERS ARE ENTITLED TO: Current release tastings at each of the participating wineries along with barrel samples, food pairing, special discounts, library releases, and more!
The participating wineries include: Signorello, Rustridge, Van der Heyden, Pina Cellars, Casa Nuestra Failla, Envy, Summit Lake, Zahtila Vineyards, Hagafen, Judd’s Hill, Robinson Family, Atalon, Venge and Monticello.

Sadly Pine Ridge, ZD, Stags Leap and Joseph Phelps are not participating - so you'll have to call Phelps to set up an appointment and make sure you have the Insignia. Another winery on the trail, but not a member is Robert Sinskey make sure you try his Carneros Pinot Noir, Cab Franc and his blend called RSV - all fantastic.

Here is the partial list of wineries on Silverado Trail - I highlighted some of my faves!

ANDRETTI WINERY4162 Big Ranch. Rd.Napa CA 94558707.261.1714
BALDACCI VINEYARDS6236 Silverado TrailNapa, CA 94558707.944.9261
CASA NUESTRA WINERY3451 Silverado Trail NorthSt. Helena, CA 94574707.963.5783
CHIMNEY ROCK WINERY5350 Silverado TrailNapa, CA 94558707.257.2641
CLIFF LEDE VINEYARDS1473 Yountville Cross RoadYountville, CA800.428.2259
CLOS DU VAL5330 Silverado TrailNapa, CA 94558707.261.5225
CONN CREEK8711 Silverado TrailSt. Helena, California 94574707.963.9100
DARIOUSH WINERY4240 Silverado TrailNapa, CA 94558707.257.2345
DUTCH HENRY WINERY4310 Silverado TrailCalistoga, California 94515707.942.5771
GOOSECROSS CELLARS1119 State LaneYountville, CA 94599707.944.1986
HAGAFEN CELLARS4160 Silverado TrailNapa, CA 94558707.252.0781
JOSEPH PHELPS WINERY200 Taplin Rd.St. Helena, CA 94574707.963.2745
JUDD'S HILL WINERYP.O. Box 415Ste. Helena, CA 94574707-963-9093
LUNA WINERY
MONTICELLO VINEYARDS4242 Big Ranch Rd.Napa, CA 94558707.253.2802
MUMM NAPA VALLEY8445 Silverado TrailRutherford , CA 95473707.967.7700
ON THE EDGE1255 Lincoln Ave.Calistoga, CA 94515707.942.7410
PIс NAPA VALLEY8060 Silverado TrailRutherford, CA 94573707.738.9328
PARADUXX7257 Silverado TrailNapa, CA 94558707.945.0890
ROBINSON FAMILY VINEYARDS5880 Silverado Trail,Napa, CA 94558707.944.8004
RUSTRIDGE WINERY2910 Lower Chiles Valley Rd.St. Helena, CA 94574707.965.9353
RUTHERFORD HILL WINERY200 Rutherford Hill Rd.Rutherford, CA 94573707.963.7194
RUTHERFORD RANCH1680 Silverado TrailSt. Helena, CA 94558707.968.3200
SIGNORELLO WINERY4500 Silverado TrailNapa, CA 94558707.255.5990
SILVERADO VINEYARDS6121 Silverado TrailNapa, CA 94558707.257.1770
STAG'S LEAP WINE CELLAR5766 Silverado TrailNapa, CA 94558707.944.2020
STELTZNER VINEYARDS5998 Silverado TrailNapa, CA 94558707.252.7272
STERLING VINEYARDS1111 Dunaweal LaneCalistoga, CA 94515707.942.3344
SUMMIT LAKE VINEYARDS2000 Summit Lake RoadAngwin, CA 94500707.965.2488
TITUS VINEYARDS2971 Silverado Trail NorthSt. Helena, CA 94574707.963.3235
VAN DER HEYDEN VINEYARDS4057 Silverado TrailNapa, CA 94558707.257.0130
VINCENT ARROYO WINERY2361 Greenwood Ave.Calistoga, CA 94515707.942.6995
WILLIAM HARRISON VINEYARDS1443 Silverado TrailSt. Helena, CA 94574707.963.8310
WILLIAM HILL WINERY1761 Atlas Peak Rd.Napa, CA 94558707.224.5424
ZAHTILA VINEYARDS2250 Lake County Hwy.Calistoga, CA 94515707.942.9251
ZD WINES8380 Silverado TrailNapa, CA 94558707.963.5188

New Orleans Jazz Fest 4/27-4/29 & 5/4-5/6

2007-03-13T06:40:00.000-07:00

Lenny Kravitz on stage from a few years ago

Every other year I try to visit the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival - good excuse for a visit and fun to take my parents to see the great music.

And who can resist the great food at Jazz Fest - like crawfish monica, oyster & tasso pasta, jambalaya, alligator sausage, p0-boys and more...and make sure you buy one of the can coolers that has a strap that you can put around your neck...as it says on the side "How ya gonna clap?" or more importantly chow down .

I'll be attending the first weekend of Jazz Fest features Dr. John, Van Morrison, Rebirth Brass Band, Rod Stewart, Norah Jones, Ludacris, Brad Paisley, Bonnie Raitt, George Thorogood and more. But I have to tell you...it won't be the big artists that make you appreciate the Fest. It will be some act you've never heard of that will blow you away. Everytime you attend Jazz Fest you learn another piece of the music history of Louisiana that you will never forget.

http://www.nojazzfest.com/

I was lucky enough to live in New Orleans in its hey day in the early 90's. After you live there the city is so different than what most tourists only see from hanging out on Bourbon Street.

As a local you learn to say "Where Y'at? and find all the cool places uptown, in the garden and warehouse district. I have not been back since the flooding from Hurricane Katrina and hoping that the New Orleans is recovering. It has been so nice to visit restaurants that I used to frequent there and have the same people still working there, doubt that will still be the case now and hopefully the city hasn't lost its charm.

So it won't be a big weekend of wine, but I will probably have some sitting at the bar at Mr B's more like a lot of Abita Amber - my fave when I'm in the Big Easy.

Look for my Mom and them at the Jazz Fest - Laissez Le Bon Temps Rouler!

-Brian

The Big Move - 12 Blocks

2007-03-12T14:29:00.000-07:00

Wow has it really been a whole year in NYC? A year ago I still had two houses in California (North & South) and just moved into an apartment in Manhattan to start a new job with CBS.

A year later I was lucky enough to sell the Nor Cal house before the crash, so it was time to upgrade my crib in the city. The prices are still crazy, but was able to find a nicer place with two bathrooms, washer/dryer & 7 closets! You only understand that if you live here.

You would think that moving 12 blocks north would be easy, but its still a whole day affair. The good news about the move was taking inventory of my wine collection...which has been in the back of a dark closet.

Found some great finds including a '96 Franciscan Reserve Cabernet - this was a very limited edition, fantastic wine that I'll break out this week, a '94 Gaya Barbera, some magnums, plus a vertical of '98, '99, '01 LeDucq and a bottle of the new name of the winery '02 Ehlers Estate. One thing so significant about the LeDucq wines was the artwork on the label including Monet, Cezanne, Van Gogh, Rembrandt and Renoir. Who knew drinking wine would give me some fine art education. When visiting the Tate Modern museum in London a few years ago I was able to identify these artists from seeing their paintings on the wine bottles.

One of my biggest worries was whether Don Giovanni's (44th/9th) would still deliver their brick oven pizza to my new address - good news they do...all the way up to 60th!...just 4 blocks to spare. After a hard day unpacking I pair the pizza with a '97 Mt Veeder Reserve that was unbelievable. Nice 1st night in the new apartment.

The HDTV's are all set up and I'm ordering a Bistro Table for my cool bar stools from Seattle and will be having a wine party - house warming party soon.

-Brian

Del Dotto Winery

2007-03-11T15:33:00.000-07:00

High School Buddy Dave R., Dave Del Dotto, Michelle (Dave R's Wife) and Brian from last year

Mount Veeder Reserve Release

2007-02-23T14:34:00.000-08:00

Mark Your Calendar for the Mt. Veeder Reserve Release Party

Join them as they bring the mountain to the valley floor, once again, and celebrate the release of another vintage. They will proudly introduce the 2003 Mount Veeder Reserve! Enjoy wine and food pairings, barrel samples, live music and a special re-release of some library favorites. Reservations encouraged, everyone welcome!Saturday, April 28th12-4pm$35 per person for Wine Club Members$40 per personHosted by Franciscan WineryHighway 29 at Galleron RoadReserve your glass today! RSVP by calling 707.967.3993 or email us at events@franciscan.com
Click for More Information or to RSVP

Sadly I won't be able to attend this year - I'll be at the 1st weekend of New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

City of Hope - Wines From Around The World

2007-02-07T07:34:00.000-08:00

Last night's TASTE OF HOPE "Wine Tasting Event" at TRIBECA ROOFTOP in NYC was a smashing success and benefeited the CITY OF HOPE.

CBS Radio/NY bought a table and better yet I was invited - didn't hurt that our station "JACK FM" was the #1 CBS product in the latest ratings.

And thanks to my due deligence of going up to Napa every month I've been assigned to sit next to Bruce Gearhart from Ole Imports & Domaine Select.

Walking in I already see a lot of friends from the record biz it's going to be a great night.
I'm immediately impressed with the quality of the reception wines:

Casteller Blanc de Blancs 2005 - (no pinot in this Spanish Champagne Style White)
Vinos Sin-Ley GR 2004 - (100% Granache)
Collalbrigo Prosecco Brut (Sparkling wine from Italy)

Plus there is an amazing assortment of Dim Sum, Sashimi and Sushi - you need to consume a lot for a base for this evening's wine tastings. Domo Arigato!

At our table Bruce has assembled an Old World vs. New World Wine tasting for the evening.

First on the list with the 1st course of Mesclun Greens, Cucumber, Apples, Mango with Feta Cheese and Balsamic Vinaigrette.

Raveneau Chablis Montee' de Tonnerre 2002 vs. Patz & Hall Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard - 2004. As you may expect the Chablis is very clear - starlight and the Chardonnay which has seen Oak is the color of daylight. No contest for me - my palate goes California all the way, though I think the Chablis would be great on a hot summer afternoon.

Second course of seared Tuna Medallions, with baby arrugula and orange vinaigrette.

Leroy Vosne Romanee Beauxmonts 1998 vs. Calera Mt Harlan Pinot Selleck Vineyard 2001. Ok this is no contest the other way...the Burgundian wine blows away the Calera, but in its defense its a newer vintage.

Main course of Filet Mignon with Shitake Mushrooms, garlic mashed potatoes, haricot verts and potato wafer garnish.

Chateau La Conseillante - Medoc 2000 vs. Ramey Diamond Mountain District Cabernet Blend 2003. A little faux paus on Bruce's part the amazing Bordeaux was not decanted, so everyone at 1st taste loves the Ramey...but with a little aeriation the barn yard smell disipates and it didn't hurt that we're all eating garlic mashed potatoes.

Desert - of chocoate dripped strawberries, praline and shortbread cookies and chocolate truffles - oui!

We had a couple more tastes:

Vinos Sin-Ley G6 Garnacha 2001 and Voss Vineyard Napa Valley Ocala Syrah 2002. Similar tastes between these wines - elegant, inky with hints of blueberry and white pepper. Bruce leaves with the decanter of the Voss, but then we make an amazing discovery at the wine table. There is a 1/2 magnum of Chateau Montelana Cabernet Sauvignon 1997 so we ditch the Syrah and enjoy the Big Cal Cab with some more chocolate truffles.

Since this was event was $500 a seat - wanted to do my part and bid on the silent auction items.

Two big scores - 1/2 case of Turley Old Vines Zinfandel 2003 and was really excited about this one - 2 Magnums of Bollinger Champagne Grand Annee 1996 - Wine Spectator 95 pts and this was a great year for Champagne. Save those bottles for a special occasion - and how funny did I look jumping into a cab with 1/2 case and 2 magnums - Party Anyone?

Wanted to congratulatemy friends from MEDIABASE Sr. VP/Music ALISSA POLLACK and ISLAND DEF JAM MUSIC Pres STEVE BARTELS - Buddy! PREMIERE RADIO NETWORKS Pres./COO KRAIG T. KITCHIN - as we say we worked together back in the day! .

The trade magazine ALL ACCESS reported "That the heaviest of the heavies gathered together to raise their glasses and lots of cash for the CITY OF HOPE. The CHARLES GOLDSTUCK CAMPAIGN has been the most successful to date, raising over $3.5 million for the CITY OF HOPE."

So surprisingly I'm not hung over, enjoyed some great wines, saw old friends and scored some amazing wine. As the T-Shirt says..."I Love NY"

-Brian

Bob Hope Chrysler Classic - La Quinta, CA

2007-02-01T07:08:00.001-08:00

It was the weekend before the PGA week in the desert and the weather has turned cold - down in the 20's overnight. This totally messes up my schedule of 18 holes at dawn, breakfast quesadilla, quick work out and then pool side Modelo Cervezas.

The Bob Hope is played on 4 different course and is the only 5 day pro-am event in golf. Courses are the PGA West Palmer Private, Bermuda Dunes, Arnold Palmer's new Classic Club just north of I-10 and across the street from me on La Quinta Country Club. I see Samuel L. Jackson of Star Wars & Coach Carter fame tee off - very cool guy and a great golfer. Would like to tee it up with him someday. Next year the Silver Rock resort course will be included in the mix. www.silverrock.org

I get in 18 on the Mountain Course and surprisingly have two birdies in this round too, but alas 4 double bogies - the putter is working only 24 putts, which helps me break 90.

On Saturday always have to visit "Treasure of The Vine" at Happy Point (hwy 111 & Washington) they have a weekly wine tasting from noon - 9pm. Dustin is there with Shannon and they just celebrated their 1 year anniversary in business. They tell me the Winter months were fantastic, but in August the desert is a ghost town. Dustin has assembled another great assortment of wines to taste and it doesn't hurt that the NFL playoffs are on the Plasma TV too. (Hey can someone order pizza? and get me a bar stool - I'll just camp out here all day)

On the menu:

*2005 Louis Michel & Fils 1er Cur Chablis Moutmain Vineyard - $34.99 Have to say I'm really starting to enjoy the French style of whites. This is Zesty, creamy and a citrus finish - perfect for a hot day.
*2005 Merryvale Chadonnay - $18.99 You can immediately see the difference in color (daylight) and you taste the oak and oddly tastes like buttered popcorn on the finish. Great value and I buy a few bottles.
*2005 Bella Glos Pinot Noir - $39.99 Parker 91 points! Nice bouquet of cherries and pomegranate.
*2004 Elyse Nero Misto Red Blend - $23.99 . Nero Misto means mixed black in Italian. A blend of mostly Petit Syrah, there is Barbera and Primitivo too. There is a smoky layer and black licorice, great nose - Love it!
*2004 Turnbull Cabernet Sauvignon - $44.99 Big Bold California Cab - that my palate has been trained on.
*2004 Davis Family Vineyards Russian River Syrah - $38.99 Must say I love everything from Russian River - the ocean fog cools the grapes at night which produces great Chard's, Pinot and Syrah. Inky with coffee and chocolate on the nose.

I also pick up some more Flora Springs Chardonnay - now sold out at winery and a bottle of Cliff Lede Claret which I really love for the price. This fruit forward wine has blueberries, plum, and black currant. Blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 2% Malbec.

Wow it's that easy to drop 2 bills, but the great wine is worth it.

On Sunday I wait through the frost delay and tee it up on TPC Stadium Course at PGA West. Pete Dye the designer really tests your skills on this one and for the 1st time on the Island green par 3 17th I hit land! Wow. Believe me I was happy to shoot 92 in the wind. Hopeful golfers had to go the Q school here to make it on to the PGA and some of them shot in the 80's.

My house is booked for Feb - it pays the taxes!...but can't wait 'til warmer weather for March's visit. Winter has finally arrived in NY it's cold and I'm starting to lose my tan.

-Brian

If you need to escape you can always stay there too - prime vacation times still available - check it out: http://www.laquintaresortleasing.com/resalehomes.asp?ListingID=21172642&DevelID=53&searchresult=Y

SILVER OAK Release Party Coming Up

2007-01-23T14:38:00.000-08:00

For stories on previous parties look back at previous blog entries.

Here is the reminder note from Silver Oak: Release Day is Saturday, February 3rd to celebrate the 2002 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. This Release Day will be the last event to take place at our original Oakville Winery, which will be completely rebuilt over the next two years. We invite you to bring your favorite Silver Oak memories (photos, letters and memorabilia) for inclusion in a 50-year time capsule for the new winery at both locations.

If you're unable to make it, you still have the opportunity to purchase the new release or the Collector Edition, featuring six stellar vintages from 1997 to 2002. Visit our website or call us at 800.273.8809. Place your order.

Holiday Wine Adventures in the Caribbean

2007-01-04T14:22:00.001-08:00

It's been a tradition to visit someplace warm during Christmas week the last few years. Normally this has been to Mexico where more Cerveza was consumed than wine. Hola Bob!

But its a direct flight from Newark to Charlotte-Amalie, St Thomas and in just a few hours you're staring at the aqua waters and basking in 90 degree temps.

I was happy to find many wine options in St. Thomas. First at the all-inclusive hotel, which actually had a nice wine list with several California options. With the blackened grouper ordered a 2001 Jekel Chardonnay and they also had Sonoma-Cutrer too.

In Redhook on the east side of the island and close to where you'd take the ferry to St. John are some nice restaurants.

First is XO Bistro & Wine Bar - start with the Baby Spinach Salad and then I really recommend the BBQ Chicken Pizza - instead of tomato paste the chef used his own BBQ sauce - it was really one of the best pizzas I've ever had!
On the wine side started with a Chateau Paradis White Bordeaux, now I know why the French guys I was partying with in NY don't like Chards from California. The White Bordeaux components are Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon and is very clear - less oak more about the fruit.
Next was a glass of Franciscan Oakville Estate Chardonnay one of my faves, but have to say the White Bordeaux had my attention and was more refreshing in the heat.
Now the tough choices - couldn't make one...so had to enjoy them all; Artesa Pinot Noir, then Ridge Lytton Springs, a blend of Zin, Petite Syrah and Carignane and finally closed it out with Turley Juvenile Zinfandel. Wow what a great night of wine, would have only been better if my wine friends were there to enjoy too. Go out the door and party at Duffy's Love Shack - the crowd gets so big they take over the parking lot.

Still in Redhook is restaurant called A Whale of a Tail, located across the street from XO & Love Shack and right above Molly Molone's.
Had to have the Island Lobster - no claws on the spiny lobster here, but its still tastes great.
Was happy to see 1/2 bottles on the menu so started with Sonoma-Cutrer Chardonnay 2003 and then was thinking of a 1/2 bottle for Duckhorn Merlot, but better priced was 2003 Chateau Souverein Merlot which was just as good in flavor.

Check out the Virgin Islands Eco Tours do the snorkeling and mangrove tour in the kayaks.

There is one golf course on St. Thomas called Mahoghany Run. The course features 3 holes called the Devil's Triangle, but I was lucky enough to birdie #5 & #9 on the front side. Ended with a blazin' 92.

Right off the resort was snorkeling every day and saw something I've never seen - A Flying Guarnard - a fish that walks on the bottom, but when approached spreads out its wings - very cool. Here's a picture

http://www.dive-st-vincent-scuba-diving.com/PhotoGallery/2003Mayhew/image003.htm

It's so laid back in the Island that it was tough to get back on the plane back to NY, but now I'm rested, relaxed and tan.

-Brian

Stocking up for 2007

2006-12-31T08:10:00.000-08:00

It's hard to find some of my California favorites in New York. So I decided to stock up for the new year.

And thanks to a very generous 50% offer from my wine club there are 8 cases of wine in my office.

Choices for the new year include: (my prices - unbelievable!)

2004 Franciscan Oakville Estate Chardonnay - $9.00 Rich, ripe and exotic.

2003 Simi Chardonnay - $9.00

2003 Franciscan Oakville Estate Merlot - $11.00 This is a big Merlot - bucking the Sideways trend I'm enjoying Merlot more than ever! Rich ruby red with black cherry, spice and blackberry with just a hint of pepper.

2003 Simi Merlot - $11.00 Just enjoyed two bottles New Year's Eve from my office at Times Square to watch the ball drop. This is more typical Merlot that is fruit forward, but very pleasant.

2003 Franciscan Oakville Estate Magnificat - $30.00 One of the best Meritages for the price in the world. Composed from over 300 individual lots entirely by taste. This year's vintage offers blackberry, black cherry with hints of chocolate, chedar with a nice long finish.

2003 Mt Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon - $20.00 Great Napa Cab! Rich and supple that is complex - will be even better in 2-5years.

2003 Robert Mondavi Russian River Pinot Noir -what a steal - sold out already! and

a special case of 2000 Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon - which was a really special deal normally $125 a bottle - scored this case for only $40 a bottle and now after tasting one I should have ordered more...It's every thing you want from a big cabernet.

At these prices the company allowed us to offer a case of wine for Christmas for all our full-time employees - nice to put in a +60 case order - our staff should be happy for a while.

Now the tough part for me because I walk to from work...How do I get the 96 bottles home and into rotation...guess if I take a few bottles home every day the project should be completed by March...

I'll add more tasting notes as I enjoy the wines.

Thanksgiving Week of Wine

2006-11-29T06:52:00.000-08:00

Now that my Dad is retired, I thought it would be nice to fly my parents out for Thanksgiving week to the California desert. Funny they had no idea what to expect - every time they heard me talk about it - they imagined a shack in the middle of the desert with a few cactus trees around. Little did they know how beautiful La Quinta is - with country clubs and golf courses on every block. And even the landscaping on the medians are well maintained.

Of course you have to get up and play golf every day - isn't that the law here? So my golf buddy Gary came down from Northern California to play too.
We had great rounds of golf at Silver Rock Resort (and did I mention breaking 90 in the round with the birdies on #10 and #18? Gary still beat me by a stroke!) Rancho LaQuinta Country Club and ended the week with an early round on the La Quinta Resort - Dunes course.

But of course Thanksgiving week was a good week of wine. Finally sampled some Beaujolais
with the old standby Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau Special Select didn't seem to be as special as last year.

The first night sat around the kitchen table and shared a 2001 Patz & Hall Pinot Noir - nice way to start the vacation.

With the 90 degree temperatures Chardonnays fit the bill - here's the consensus on the taste in order of their appeal; 2004 ZD Winery Chardonnay California, 2005 Sonoma Cutrer Winery Chardonnay Sonoma Coast, 2003 Flora Springs Wine Co. Chardonnay Select Cuvee Napa Valley and the winner 2005 Rombauer Vineyards Chardonnay Carneros.

With pizza one night opened 2001 Conn Creek Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley and when the decanter was almost empty thought I was opening a second bottle but it turned out to be 2002 Conn Creek Winery Cabernet Franc - so we made a little blend - it was fantastic.

For an early Thanksgiving meal on Wednesday had brought a magnum of the 1991 Franciscan Magnificat it was even autographed by winemaker Larry Levin - a Bordeaux Blend of 4 noble grapes was only missing Petit Verdot. That went fast so the back up was a few bottle of 2002 Franciscan Merlot.

With friends and family departing on Thanksgiving day I took my parents over to Arnold Palmer's Restaurant, we had a wonderful table outside next to the putting green. We ordered a few Bloody Marys to start as we took a look at the menu. They had a wonderful 4 course dinner for a reasonable $60 per person. Each course had 4 options - starters Risotto for Dad, Shrimp Cocktail for Mom and Tuna Sashimi for me - hey we had turkey yesterday. On to the second course - pear salad, iceberg wedge, lobster bisque. For the main course - we all opted for Prime Rib - the cut was so generous non of us could finish it. And by desert time we were all stuffed and ordered desert to go - some pecan pie. The nice touch was the bottomless glass of Gloria Ferrer Carneros Cuvee Brut, of course when you're not counting how many glasses you've had in the sun - we all ended up with an extended nap after dinner. But what a nice day with my parents. I'm so proud of them and my Dad is making a difference after Katrina as president of Habitat for Humanity in Picayune, MS (this is the 1st high ground outside of New Orleans 100 ft about sea level) - they hope to have 40 more houses built shortly. You can sponsor a house for a donation of $1500 http://www.habitat.org/

While playing golf on the last day a few ambulances went by, guess to prepare me for the sounds of NY as I take the red-eye back to Manhattan all tan and somewhat relaxed. At least its supposed to be warm this week there. It was a very special vacation with my parents.

-Brian

Roadhouse 747 in Central PA

2006-11-10T14:40:00.000-08:00

We have a family cottage on the Juniata River in Central PA, so during the summers we used to go into town to a redneck bar called The Hill Valley Hotel.

And if you've ever heard the phrase "The Girls All Get Prettier At Closing Time" it applies to this bar.

Well that bar has been remodeled and just opened as the Roadhouse 747 Near Mt. Union PA - where? about 30 minutes west of Harrisburg off route 22 to route 747 - its not too far from Raystown Lake.
And they have LIVE music every Friday and big screen TV's for football too the Steelers are having a rough year so excepte more excitement for Nascar or WWE wrestling...some of the local favorites.

Last week I stopped by for lunch and the food was excellent and I was surprised that 1) they actually had a wine list and 2) the wine list was respectable with bottles of Chateau St. Michelle for $16 and drafts $1.25.

So if you find yourself lost in Central PA the Roadhouse 747 is one of the only bars around.
And yes the Girls Do Get Prettier At Closing Time...its been a long tradition for the local guys to not show up until midnight.

Should be fun next summer when we're at the cottage.

-Brian

Le Beaujolais Nouveau Est Arrivé in NYC - Where?

2006-11-08T08:48:00.000-08:00

Every year it's a tradition to celebrate the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau from France.

It happens on the third Thursday of November when parties are thrown in France, the USA, and throughout the world! Wine enthusiasts like me will go out at midnight to be one of the first to sample this year's wine. So why not join the fun this year with a gathering chez vous?

The arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau is a great excuse to get together with friends and have some fun. In Lyon, most people get together and walk from bouchon to bouchon, sampling the different wines. You can bring the party to your house with these easy ideas. Choose your day: Thursday after work appetizer party; Friday Fondue Party; or linger a bit on Saturday with a special supper of Boeuf Bourguignon. Ã votre sante'!

This year being in New York, I'll get to partake 3 hours earlier, but I'm still looking for places to get that midnight taste? I will update my blog with locations as I find them.

Of course in NY if you really enjoy this year's Beaujolais - you could celebrate in each time zone, do a Central Time Zone tasting at 1am, Mountain at 2am and Pacific at 3am...and so on...if you're still there on Hawaii time its time to go work Bob!

Here's my recap from last year: (ven though Dave sold Seattle Cellars they will still have a party this year)

12:01 AM I was at Seattle Cellars in Belltown they're proclaiming "Le Beaujolais Nouveau Est Arrive!" However you pronounce it en Francais - tranlation "the new Beaujolais has arrived!"

People are on hand for the first Beaujolais wine tasting of 2005!

As has been the tradition at Seattle Cellars, Pajamas are acceptable attire. Is this how they do it in France? Non!

They had 6 Beaujolais on hand for tasting starting with a George Duboeuf. Another great thing about the wine is the prices are reasonable from $8.99 - $12.00.

And if you missed the midnight tasting join them for another Beaujolais Nouveau tasting at the regular Thursday tasting from 5-7 PM at Seattle Cellars - 2nd/Wall Belltown.

Little history on the tradition - which I first discovered in New Orleans.

Beaujolais is made from the Gamay grape and was harvested the 1st week of September.
Beaujolais is sold every year beginning the third Thursday in November. Not always as popular as it is now Beaujolais itself comes from the Beaujolais region of southern Burgundy (that's in France - not New Orleans where they say Bur Gun Dee).

Recently, Beaujolais has come into fashion, and the hype is you want to be one of the 1st people from all over the world to taste it.

You can credit the hype and endless self promotion to one Georges Duboeuf. You'll instantly recognize his Beaujolais Nouveau from its colorful artwork on the label.

Why all the hype - Beaujolais Nouveau is an easy to drink fruity wine. (Can you say Kool-Aid or grape juice?) Serve slightly chilled and its as close to white wine as a red wine can get.

Drink it now and enjoy - also a great wine to share on Thanksgiving!

details courtesy of frenchfood.com

Fall Open House at Franciscan Winery in Napa

2006-10-20T13:58:00.000-07:00

Napa - Celebrate the Harvest Season on October 28: Fall Open House at Franciscan Winery.

Franciscan is one of my favourite wineries in Napa - I've been a member for years and one of the great things about being in their wine club are the other brands that are also owned by their parent company - Constellation Brands. Which includes; Robert Mondavi, Simi, Columbia, Estancia, Ravenswood, Veramonte, Ruffion, Mt. Veeder, Tintara and Drylands. So you get to taste a wide varieties of wines in one club. The library is a beautiful room for parties.

Here is the invitation for the open house:

Everyone is welcome to join us for the complete Franciscan experience. They will be pouring thier current releases, special library selections, and offering barrel samples all paired with culinary treats created by our own Chef Morgan Robinson.

Discover what our Sensory Evaluation and Art of the Blend seminars have to offer and taste grapes fresh from this year’s harvest. Catherine Bergen joins us to sign copies of her new cookbook Gourmet Every Day and will be preparing delicious samples from her new book.

This is your opportunity to enjoy a wonderful afternoon during our favorite time of year! 12pm-4pm. $10 for Wine Club Members, $20 per person for guests/non-members. No Reservations Necessary
Learn More About Our Open House
Check out the Fall Foliage and enjoy some great wine. Hope to see you next weekend!

-Brian

Award Wining Wine List at West Bank Cafe

2006-10-11T06:38:00.000-07:00

New York - One of the nice things about living in Hell's Kitchen is the close proximity to Broadway and the Theatre district.

For over 7 months I've walked by this restaurant and said "I need to try this sometime..." Well sometime finally arrived last week and I ventured into The West Bank Cafe on 42nd Street to check out the menu.

First thing I noticed on the menu was an award from Wine Spectator for their wine list.
The Maitre de tells me that the wine list at West Bank Cafe has been a source of pride and passion from owner Steve Olsen and his love of California bottles. They were one of the first to offer only West Coast Wines way back in 1978. (Back in the day when I was only legal for few months before they moved the drinking age back to 21 and when taste buds were attuned to Stroh's and Old Style in the Midwest)...but I regress...

Wow - another NY restaurant with a great selection of California Reds. The impressive wine list has several hundred labels including some big Chateaus and the big names including Cabernets, Pinot and some big names like Heitz, Far Niente, Opus, Pine Ridge, Joseph Phelps and more.

OK I'm in...Oh yeah what about the food? Let's just do the tasting menu and get a sample of what they do best and bring me the wine list, I'm looking for the best taste for the price.

Here it is...a Meritage disguised as a Merlot the 2001 Pine Ridge Crimson Creek Merlot a Bordeaux Blend of 76% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec. Yes if they wanted to pay the price they could call it a Meritage it has 4 of the 5 noble grapes and no one grape is more than 90% of the blend. So we're drinking a Meritage at Merlot prices!

The chef starts us off with a Shaved Winter Salad. Second course was one of my favorites and a repeat - Peppered Shrimp Salad with Florida Grapefruit. On to the main courses - Grilled Halibut (that was amazing) and the sliced Duck was also a repeat. To top it all off...another bottle of Pine Ridge and the Chocolate Trio desert.

Have to say this has been one of the best meals I've enjoyed in Manhattan and is walking distance from the apartment.

The West Bank Cafe is busy 'til 8pm like most restaurants in the Theatre District. So one of the best times to visit is between 8 - 10pm. After the pre-Broadway crowd and before the post-Broadway crowd.

For Contemporary American Food with an award winning wine list check out the West Bank Cafe at 407 W. 42nd Str. 212-695-6909 www.westbankcafe.com

I'm finding them one by one...add this to your list of NY restarants with great California wine - I'll have to compiled the my whole list on a seperate blog.

This restaurant will be in regular rotation and don't forget on how to get the Meritage at Merlot prices!

-Brian

The End of an Era in Northern California

2006-10-04T08:41:00.000-07:00

It's the end of era for me in San Francisco's East Bay.

For over 11 years I went to weekly wine tastings and traveled up to Napa, Sonoma and Livermore wine country a few times a month.

My house just sold, so with great sadness I'm back in Cali to pack up the remaining items at my ranch styled house.

But I'm ahead 0f schedule so why not one more trip to Napa.

I always love to go up through Silverado Trail and have always wanted to stop by the new tasting room at Paraduxx, a high end wine from Duckhorn that features two ducks on the label. Get it - pair of ducks. This wine is Zinfadel & Bordeaux Blend. The tasting is $10 and features a 3 year vertical tasting. One of most beautiful tasting rooms in Napa.

Friday is packing day - I pick up the U-Haul and head over to the house. Going to take a bunch of my stuff down to Southern California house. Patio Furniture, Weber Grill, Fountain, tools and more misc. items. Looking through things I decide not to haul all my gold records back to New York. So a quick trip to "I Sold It" on EBay and they agree to sell them - the collection includes Sting, Michael Jackson, Elton John, Guns & Roses and Milli Vanilli - collector's item.

My good friend Gary comes by later with a six pack to help me finish and he was a big help getting the patio furniture in the truck (after 4 beers for him & 2 for me) and I'm finished just in time to shower and head over to my old haunt - the weekly wine tasting at Wine Thieves - They Steal Wine so You Don't Have Too!.

Wine Thieves has two locations now - the original on Mt Diable in Lafayette and new location in Clayton on Clayton Road. www.winethieves.com

Tastings now are $1.00, but theirs a great tasting - and had to educate the distributor to pronounce "Meritage" like heritage - The Robert Young Meritage was a good value under $30. I'm exhausted so I head back to the hotel. Good news at the bar the corkage fee is only $15 dollars, so I run to the car and grab a bottle from yesterday's trip to Napa. A 2000 Mt. Veeder Reserve - delightful. And it went well with their brick oven pizza from Grissini's at the Concord Hilton.

Urggh - its early Saturday morning and its time to drive down to LaQuinta, a suburb of Palm Springs. Luckily I've brought my XM satellite boom box to listen to college football.
I'm listening to Michigan State - Illinois - hoping its a better week thant the ND disaster last week. MSU starts strongs, falls behind, ties it up and ILL kicks a game winning field goal with seconds left in the game. Oh well from the other scores I'm doing well in this week's football pool.

Finally make my way down I-5 to 210 E to 10 and there they are - the windmills, which means I'm close...just a few exits to go. The desert is hot, but so beautiful. It still surprises me that I love the area so much because I'm a water person.

My place looks great - time to put some shorts and t-shirts on and un-pack. It's so Hot. But unpacking goes a lot faster. Wow - ahead of schedule again...

And a weekend trip to the desert isn't complete without a trip to TREASURES OF THE VINE A brand new wine shop on the corner of Highway 111 and Washington www.treasuresoftv.com

They have free wine tastings Friday night and all Saturday. And their selection is amazing.
You'll be greeted by Dustin Miller – the buyer/manager of this hip new spot. The owner Lance and often his lovely wife Shannon will be there too for their Saturday tasting Noon – 9:00pm.

Stop in and say Hi to Dustin, Shannon or Lance during your next visit to the Palm Desert-Point Happy LaQuinta Area it’s a great location next to another hot spot Okura Robata Grill - which is where I choose to have dinner - its a frantastic Sushi Bar and of course before I head back it Las be Casuelas Mexican food.

Sunday morning - up at sunrise for 18 at the LaQuinta Mountain course - wow its been two weeks since I've played, but start off with a bogie, par #2 the par 3 over water - 3 iron 190+ yards and its going to be a great day - final result 85 with only 30 putts - Tiger would be proud of my putting effort.

More unpacking - then a quick trip up to the main pool at the LQ Resort & Spa - couple of Modelo's and a Chicken BLT some suntanning and its back to unpacking.

Ahead of schedule again - I get a chance to do some random things to the house in preparation of the busy season. Thanksgiving to May is very busy in the desert. Snow birds, LA hipsters, Movie star and Canadiens - Eh?

It's been a productive trip, but sadly the end of an era for BT in the East Bay of San Francisco.
But I'll be back - often! Cali is in my blood...or is that the wine?

-Brian

Wine & Roses Wine Bar & Cafe

2006-09-25T05:48:00.000-07:00

Manhattan upper west side - In my endless search for a great wine bar in NYC, I'm on the subway...oops I'm on the E, not the A or C that I want and end up in Queens.
OK after backtracking I finally end up at 72nd street exit in search of Wine & Roses Wine Bar & Cafe. A wine bar offering 24 wines by the glass, 100 by the bottle, but alas only 25 seats and someone is having a birthday party.

Need to grab a bite so a block north is Cafe Frida featuring contemporary Mexican. Nice place very authentic, but we'll be the judge after tasting the salsa and chips. Try the chile experience featuring several different chiles - roasted tomatillo & serrano, chipotle, chile de arbol, chile mulato, Xni pe habernero and smoked pasilla. Add in the Camarones Quesadilla with a Pacifica you're all set...the wine will have to wait a few minutes.

On the way back there is finally room at Wine & Roses and so we belly up to the bar to get a look at the menu. Like a lot of NY wine bars there are a lot of French, Spain and Chile choices, but very few from California. The choices are not a "Wow" and therefore I don't even remember the brand. Too bad I don't want to make that bad choice again.

But aside from the lack of California choices this looks like a great wine bar. I really liked the fact that the owner handed me a menu over the bar when just walking in the front door. The service and decor was top notch.

Plus guys - there were 3-4 girls for every guy in there. A little wine knowledge would go a long way in having a good evening.

It's a repeat, only because of the service and the promise that the wine list changes all the time.

Wine & Roses Wine Bar & Cafe - 286 Columbus Ave (212) 579- 9463
Take the A or C subway north to 72nd street one block west.

-Brian

New Bar in Hell

2006-09-24T06:13:00.001-07:00

LANSDOWNE ROAD is a brand new new bar that is sprucing up the 10th Ave & W. 43rd Street neighborhood in Hell's Kitchen.

Lansdowne Road is the name of both a road in Dublin, Ireland and a sports stadium located there, but generally refers to the stadium owned by the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) and is used mostly for rugby. Originally named the Marquess of Lansdowne. (thanks to Wikipedia)

Why name a bar after a famous road in Dublin? Well from the clientele the Irish really like to drink! Word of caution - don't try to match them beer for beer or you'll be crawling home!

One first things you'll notice is the cool bar - literally...the bar has the refrigerator lines running through the top in glass so you can put your glass on it to keep it cold. The same line keep several beers Ice Cold and produces a layer of ice on the outside of the tap. Only certain beer work - oddly enough the ones with higher alcohol content - Stella, Coors Light.

Last weekend was opening night and they had an open bar from 7-9pm. Never saw so many people texting their friends...and the crowd built very quickly.

The owner and bartenders all introduced themselves and have remember my name since...nice touch. A true neighborhood bar. There are several Plasma TV's for viewing your favorite sports - which is tough last week - we had the Mets & Yankees trying to clinch their divisions, College Football, US open and of course the Ryder Cup this weekend.

Standard Irish Fare on the menu - like Fish & Chips, but also check out their sliders and because one of the owners is from "Scruffy Duffy's" they have great wings.

The wine list needs some help with current offerings like Casa Lapostolle, a Cabernet from Spain. I'll help get some California offerings on the list...if just for me and my friends. Who says you can't watch football and share some great vino?

Another good place for pre or post Broadway show or off Broadway show like Jewtopia.

Vino - Versity at Divine Bar

2006-09-22T12:25:00.000-07:00

Manhattan - Divine Bar West hosts "walk-around classes" with up to 36 wines every Tuesday from 6:30 - 8:30 pm.

Upcoming events:

9/26 Bubbles and Blinis - comparative tasting of prestige cuvees, vintage and non-vintage Champagnes, Cavas, Proseccos and Sparkling Wine from around the world.

10/10 Wine & Chocolate - Can't go wrong with spicy Zins, Syrahs, Late Harvest Desert Wine and of course more Champagne. Oh Yeah and Chocolate!

11/07 Big Beefy Reds - This is an "All BT" Tasting with dozens of big, bold, spicy, and meaty Cabernets, Merlots, Syrahs, Zins and more paired with an erray of Beef Hours O'Deuvres.

11/21 Tuscany & Parmesan - World class tasting of reds and whites from Central Italia plus cheesy Parmesan tapas.

Tickets for these events $35 in advance www.vino-versity.com

Divine Bar West located at 236 W. 54th at Broadway.

If you don't make it to the Tuesday tastings - they have up to 100 wines that can be sampled nightly from 2 oz. taste up, full glass or the whole bottle.

Nice place to warm up before a Broadway show...like me you'll be guaranteed to get in a quick nap during the 2nd act.

-Brian

Pennsylvania Weekend - Fishing & Wine

2006-09-18T05:58:00.000-07:00

Now that I'm working on the East Coast I've been visiting our family cottage on the Juniata River in Central PA. Which is just over a 3 hour drive from Manhattan (me driving - 4 hours for others...)

The change of the season is in the air and the trees are starting to show some color.

Awaking early Saturday morning the mist is rising off the river. I put my surf shoes and bathing suit on and get my fishing gear ready to go wading in the river. Good morning! the water is already cooler than just a few weeks ago...that will wake you up.

Today's target - Smallmouth Bass - pound for pound one of the strongest fighting fish there is!
Wading upstream using top waters and in just over an hour I only have few bite from undersized fish. Mostly because the water is so low this time of year - it's been only up to my knees so far. Need to find some deeper water - as I approach one of the islands in the middle of the river it starts getting deeper - now we're up to waist level - deep water for this part of the river. Off to my left I see something chasing minnows into the shallows. Quick cast to the spot and Bam! A Bass goes after my lure and the battle is on...wow this fish is taking out line...we have a contender...the drag is screaming...I have to chase after this fish if we're going to see how big it is...running downstream I catch up to the fish...and finally bring it up for a good look - nice 2+ pound fish - which is big - I'm only using Ultra Lite tackle and 4 pound test - so its been a battle. I admire the fish and carefully take out the treble hook from his lip and place him back into the water. Nice...this spot yeilded over 20 Bass - in my childhood fishing the stream I never encountered such a sweet spot. But the water is low and this is the only deep water so there stacked up, hungry and competing for food. What a nice way to start the day...but now it's off to sample some PA wine!

Grape harvest season in all ready in full-swing in Pennsylvania. It begins about mid-August and ends about mid-October (which is also a great time to see the Fall Colors).

So what types of wine can you find in PA.? The terroir and moderate climate provides some of the best grape growing conditions on the east coast. With over 90 wineries in the state, the roster of award-winning varietals includes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Catawba, Cayuga, Chambourcin, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Reisling, Seyval Blanc, Vidal Blanc, Vignoles - and, yes, even methode Champenoise! There are a few I'm not familar with, but its fun to come up with some new favorites.

1st stop only because the GPS in the Mercedes says its the closest - Benigna's Creek Vineyard
Nestled in the pristine Mahantango Valley. The winery is situated at the highest point in the valley and on a clear day, you can see across the Susquehanna River, over 30 miles. (useless waterway fact for $1,000 Bob? - The Susquehanna is the largest fresh water source of the Chesapeake Bay)
This winery produces a wide variety of fruit and grape wines. Bring a picnic and sit on the porch and beautiful rear deck. Wines include Late Harvest $ 15.00 to fruit wines like Raspberry $ 10.00 to the tolerable Hessian Red $ 8.50, nice Cabernet Franc $ 8.00 and Chardonnay $ 8.00. Yes the wine is a bargain, but to my taste buds its commesurate to the taste for my California palate.

Mount Nittany Vineyard and Winery is the next stop in Centre Hall, PA. Guess I never knew where the name of the mountain lions originated for Penn State Nittany Lions. OK what is this fascination with sweet wine in PA? You know I never liked the wine my parents drank...now I know why - Hold the sugar Bob!
Aside from their sweet wine - they had some respectable Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Reserve, also some decent reds - Merlot, Cab Franc, Cab Sauv and this is the second time today I've seen the Chambourcin - a light-bodied dry red; nice fruit flavor forward, with a hint of oak. Reminds me of Chevry something from France.
Also try their Bordeaux Blend called "Montage". Lots of American Oak in use here...hey we're deep in the woods what do you expect?

Oops why didn't someone tell there was a Penn State game? Oh well they won so everyone's happy! Traffic sucks - game just got out. But we make it back to the cottage safe and sound.

Makes for a nice escape from New York City.

For more info: www.visitPA.com

-Brian

1/2 Priced Wine with Brunch in Westchester

2006-08-20T18:11:00.000-07:00

Tired of the cheap Champagne served at most brunches?

How about 50% off your favorite California wine?

Just 25 minutes north of Manhattan is this fantastic restaurant

Ruby's Oyster Bar & Bistro - 45 Purchase St Rye, NY 10580(914) 921-4166

First of all Ruby’s has amazing food everyday with fresh seafood and oysters from all over the country.

Then on Sundays they have an amazing brunch with items like Lobster Club, Poached Eggs over Shrimp & Crab hash, Portobello Mushroom burger. Lobster omelet and so much more.

But what has me coming back is the half-price wine on Sundays during brunch!

That’s right enjoy your favorites at 50% off! And if you don’t finish the bottle they cork it back up and bag it for take out!

So normally if you ordered two glasses of Chardonnay at $11 you’re paying $22.

Instead why not order a bottle of Sonoma Cutrer for $22 and get a whole bottle for the price of two glasses. Or go big white with the 2003 Rombauer Chardonnay priced at $60, but its ½ price! Way to go big spender!

Why stop there – since you can take it home how about a Flowers Pinot or jump into the big California Cabs like a 2003 Joseph Phelps Cabernet priced at $90, but at ½ off it becomes a steal – that was my choice today and a few weeks ago my choice was the Rodney Strong 2001 Symmetry a nice blend of the 5 noble Bordeaux Grapes also in the $90 range.

The list has some great wines like Silver Oak, Beringer Private Reserve back to 1994, Opus One, Howell Mountain and when its 50% off the regular price you can’t find these deals anywhere!

Rye is also accessible from the Metro North line which drops you back in Grand Central, Manhattan.

-Brian

WHAT'S THAT SMELL?

2006-07-14T13:19:00.000-07:00

Occasionally I find very informative data on wine tasting that I simplify and keep on my blog.

Have you ever wondered where wine adjectives like “cherry, blackberry, cedar…” come from? Several grapes have naturally occurring aromatic compounds with fruits, flowers or herbs. While other aromas and flavors like butter, vanilla is a result of the oak barrels and the result of sometimes secret techniques used by winemakers.

YOUR NOSE KNOWS…

THE AROMA OF WINE HERE ARE THE BIG SEVEN:

1) FLORAL – Honeysuckle, jasmine in Gewürztraminer, Riesling and Muscat. Violet in Cab Franc. Rose aroma in Beaujolais and Pinot Noir.

2) FRUIT - Chardonnay & Sauv. Blanc typically shares aromas like pineapple, pear, peach and apricot. Some wine makers are leaving out the oak to produce wines with more fruit characteristics. Big red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon produce fragrances like cherries and berries. Raisin and prune flavors can be found in Zinfandels.

3) HERBACIOUS – Bell pepper sometimes in Sauvignon Blanc and in Cab Franc produced in cooler climates. (Not my favorite style of Cab Franc) Mint, eucalyptus and other vegetables aromas are found in Cabernet Sauvignon.

4) SPICES – Oak creates different levels of spiciness. Black pepper aromas are characteristics of Zin, Syrah and Cab Franc from warmer climates like Napa Valley.

5) OAK – Woody, vanilla and smoky aroma is created by the fermentation of wines in oak. Smokey aroma can be controlled by the style of “Toast” in the oak barrel. Most Napa Cab’s use a Medium Toast oak barrel. The nutty aroma comes from the aging in Oak.

6) BUTTER – This smell is a result of the secondary malolactic fermentation process which converts malic acid to lactic acid. Think Kendall Jackson Chardonnay – and you’ll know this flavor. Butterscotch aromas can also materialize.

7) CARAMEL – Aromas like cedar and honey derive from the fermenting and aging wines in oak. Pinot Noir may develop aromas like molasses or soy as its fruit aromas diminish – this was evident when I sample a 1990 Gainey Pinot last year – amazing! Cab Sauv and Merlot may take on chocolate aromas as they age. If you ever had a barrel sample of wine that was just put into a new barrel – it’s amazing how much flavor is impacted to the wine.

BONUS SMELL – BARNYARD – Found in the big Bordeaux from France. Yes if it smells like you're surrounded by cows and need to watch your step – its Francais.
Likely a result of the aging in reused French Oak Barrels.

Ignore the Smell and drink up – tastes much better than the aroma!

-Brian

Source: direct mail piece from www.worldwineestates.com not available on their webpage.

Silver Oak Release Party - Alexander Valley 7/29

2006-07-05T15:12:00.000-07:00

It’s always party time in Napa when Silver Oak holds one of its release parties.

Upcoming Release Day: Saturday, July 29, 2006

Featuring....2002 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Why only '02 when everyone else is on to the '03 and newer? Because Silver Oak keeps their wines in American Oak (yes American) longer than other wineries, which is one reason for its unique taste.Because of the crowds this weekend a lot of other wineries will also have special offerings. Tasting notes from previous years - the Alexander Valley is typically sweeter with fruit forward taste, while the Napa has always been hearty, beefy and chewy! I've always thought the Alexander Valley was the good value priced at $60 a bottle. See you there!

Here is the information borrowed from www.silveroak.com

More than a decade ago people started waiting outside our door to be among the first to taste our new release. Today we continue the tradition and would like to invite you to our 2002 Alexander Valley Release Day.
Again this year, small quantities of a desirable library wine will be released for sale and a selection of delicious hors d'oeuvres will be offered. At the Alexander Valley Estate large format bottles of older vintages will be opened and guests will enjoy live music in the fountain courtyard. In Oakville, Winemaker Daniel Baron will be on hand to sign bottles and Thomas Arvid will have a selection of his gallery on display. We invite you to reconnect with old friends and taste the 2002 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., sales will continue until 4:00 p.m.

Price: $20 per tasting, includes a complimentary Silver Oak wine glass. Wine is $60 per 750 ml bottle and the allocation is 12 bottles per person.
For more information, please call: 800.273.8809

Weekly Wine Tasting at Divine Bar in New York

2006-05-18T08:19:00.000-07:00

Manhattan Midtown – Finally found a weekly wine tasting that’s fantastic…it would only be better if it was free.

Divine Bar – 236 W 54th Str between Broadway & 8th

Event is called “Vino-Versity” casual weekly wine tasting to help you gain knowledge and experience by tasting multiple wine samples.

This week was "California Wine & Pizza"

TABLE A

Artesa Chardonnay – Carneros
Bernardus Sauv Blanc – Monterey
Luna “Freakout” a white blend, Silverado Trail – Napa
Cosentino Sangiovese, California
Clay Station Malbec, Lodi
X Y Zin 100 year vines Old Zinfidel

TABLE B

Monticello “Montreaux” Brut Sparkling NY, Napa
Luddite Arneis “Molto Bene”, Sonoma
Lindquist “La Verdad” Tempranillo-Syrah-Grenache, Central Coast
C & T Tailgate Zin, Napa
Amphora Syrah, Dry Creek
Ampora Petite Syrah, Dry Creek

TABLE C

Jade Mountain Viognier, Mt. Veeder Napa
Chalone Chardonnay, Monterey
Edna Valley Pinot Gris, South Coast
Domaine Chandon Pinot Noir, Carneros
Dynamite Zinfandel, Mendocino
Solaris Reserve Cabernet, Napa

TABLE D

Estancia Chardonnay, Monterey
J. Lohr Riesling, Monterey
“J” Pinot Noir, Sonoma
Maramonte Syrage (Syrah-Petite Sirah-Petite Verdot), California
Vince Vineyards Cabernet, Napa
Matanzas Creek Merlot, Sonoma
Silkwook Syrah, Napa
O’Brian Cellars “Seduction” Cabernet Blend, Napa

These tastings are $35 in advance and $40 at the door – but be warned they sell out in advance!

More information: http://www.vino-versity.com/

Wine in NY - North Fork of Long Island

2006-05-11T14:14:00.000-07:00

New York - This month’s Wine Spectator had an excellent write up on New York Wine so it was time to rent a car and get out of Manhattan.

This is my first trip to the North Fork of Long Island. The first thing you'll notice is how peaceful it is to get away from the city – Wow I can hear birds singing – nice.

Wineries that I visited and would do so again:

Pellegrini Vineyards – First guy was in training – Sorry Bob – give me someone who knows what going on…luckily Chris Cornwell comes to the rescue and brings out some nice wine to sample. I was really impressed with their Merlots. ( I buy 1 reserve and 2 of the Estate) Beautiful grounds and nice for a picnic.

Bedell Cellars – nice write up in Spectator and they were right. They have some great blends, beautiful property and great artwork on their label. Mother and daughter working in tasting room were very knowledgeable and enthusiastic.

Raphael – This is a must stop because of the amazing tasting room that rivals many in Napa. The owners built it to resemble a Monastery – and it is heavenly. Ask for Sal he was very helpful.

Lenz Winery – One of their Merlots scored comparable to Petrus in a blind taste test. They also offer a Blanc de Blanc that is “still” and not sparkling, so it didn’t have the in-bottle secondary fermentation of wine to effect carbonation. Non! Méthode Champenoise

Corey Creek Vineyards – Nice property with a great porch overlooking the vineyard and make sure you taste their Raspberry wine – which would be great over gelato. Insider's Tip: Corey Creek is sister winery to Bedell, buying a tasting at either one gets you comped at the other.

Most wineries close at 5:00, but a few stay open until 9:00pm. Of course people tasting that late in the day are very entertaining.

Claudio’s (Est. 1870) on the water in Greenport is a great place for seafood and has become one of the most prominent dining and boating experiences on the eastern seaboard. www.claudios.com

The wine region on the North Fork of Long Island isn’t Napa – you won’t find huge California Cabs, but the scenery is well worth your visit.

Directions: Take 495 East until it runs out at Riverhead – continue East until it turns into Hwy 25. Take it all the way up to Greenport and circle back around on 48 for an excellent adventure.

-Brian

History of Meritage - Revisited

2006-05-09T12:21:00.000-07:00

Still seems to be confusion about Meritage - so we revisit with updated information.

As interest grew in creating blended Bordeaux-style wines, the members sought to create a recognizable name associated with high-quality blended wines, instead of merely labelling them as "Red Table Wine" (or "White Table Wine") or giving them proprietary names unique to the winery.

In 1988, the Meritage Association hosted a contest to conceive of a name for these wines. They received over 6,000 submissions. Neil Edgar of Sacramento won by suggesting Meritage — a combination of the words merit and heritage (and which rhymes with the latter). This is an American word folks and should not be pronounced like Hermitage which is French.

BONUS: As a reward for winning this contest, Mr. Edgar was awarded two bottles of the first ten vintages of every wine licensed to use the Meritage brand.
I did the math – there are over 100 wines using the Meritage label so Neil is the proud recipent of over 2,000 fantastic bottles!

Meritage defined:

Red wine from Bordeaux is made with certain grape varieties, principally Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. A red Meritage must be made from at least two of these grapes (or the less well known St. Macaire, Gros Verdot, and Carmenere), and no single varietal may comprise more than 90% of the blend.

White Meritage bears the same relationship to white Bordeaux as its red counterpart. It is a blend of at least two of the grapes Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Sauvignon Vert.
Although not stipulated by the licensing agreement, the Meritage Association strongly recommends that wineries label only the blend that they consider to be their best as Meritage, and that they limit production of such wines to no more than 25,000 cases.

"Meritage" is a registered trademark and can only be used by wineries that agree to the Meritage Association's licensing agreement. This stipulates the types of blends that can be labelled "Meritage" (discussed above), also must pay a fee of $1.00 per case of wine produced, capped at $500.00 per vintage) and that they abide by wine labeling restrictions

Source: www.wikipedia.org/

Tips on Wine Tasting

2006-04-10T09:10:00.000-07:00

Here's how to avoid the common faux pas that both amuse and annoy the people who have to pour at the winery...and I'm guilty of a few of these myself.

Tips are from this month's Franciscan news letter with my added commentary.

*Don't Smoke - why dull your taste buds? Save the cuban for later.

*Take it easy on the perfume or cologne guys. I like to smell the wine in the glass not you! And watch out for scented lipstick or lipbalm - or that is all you will smell on your Reidel. (rhymes with needle)

*Don't hog the table Bob! Sure we all want to learn - ask a question as you make room for someone else to get their glass filled. Dude You Fascinate Me - Move aside, move aside...we all hate the big guy who camps out at the table.

*Don't ask a question you already know the answer too...just to impress your friends!
Guilty as charged...but I normally do this to test the knowledge of the pourer. Most of the time it just pisses off the host and does not impress your friends.

*Don't name drop (no explanations needed)

*Don't rinse your glass with the nastly chlorinated water in the jug. Sometimes I've had the pourer do this - yikes. Your glass does not need rinsing between tastes, all your doing is diluting the next wine. Still compelled to rinse...do so with the next wine!

*Don't lift your glass up suddenly when the wine is being poured. Now you know how the big puddles of red wine on the tablecloth get there. Put your glass on the table for an easy target.

*Don't be afraid to ask for more of something you really liked, but don't be a hog.

*Don't get drunk - oops. It would be a shame if don't remember the wines or all of your new friends that you think you've impressed by asking questions you already know the answers to!

TREASURES OF THE VINE

2006-02-06T16:40:00.000-08:00

LaQuinta, CA – Found a great new place that took my mind off missing the Silver Oak, Trilogy and other big release parties up in Napa Valley last weekend.

I was escaping the Seattle rain again down in the Palm Desert and made a wonderful new find – TREASURES OF THE VINE http://www.treasuresoftv.com/ A brand new wine shop on the corner of Highway 111 and Washington.

Looking at their great collection of California Cab’s and blends I was greeted by Dustin Miller – the buyer/manager of this hip new spot. I was looking at a Fisher Cabernet and Dustin said; “Have you had it?” I said; “No, but had heard great things…” So he say’s “Let’s Try It” And I was definitely impressed and of course and a result…walked out that night with some great bottles.

The next day met owner Lance and his wife Shannon for their Saturday tasting Noon – 9:00pm. Just one of their weekly tastings (the other one is on Wednesday’s for the locals).

Check out this tasting:

1) Artesa 2002 Sauvinon Blanc $21.99
2) Patz & Hall Chardonnay - $34.99 Always one of the best California Chardonnays.
3) Au Bon Climat – Santa Ynez Valley Pinot from the Sanford & Benedict Vineyards. $35.99
4) Ramey Claret $36.99 a blend of Cab, Cab Franc and Merlot. (FAVE)
5) Vino Bella 2003-Meola Vineyards/Alexander Valley. Bordeaux Blend with everything but Malbec.
6) Pine Ridge 2002 Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon. Cab/Merlot Blend. $37.99 (FAVE)
7) Astrale & Terra 2001 Napa Valley Syrah $29.99 – nose smells like Blueberry Muffins.
8) Venezia Meola Vineyards 2002 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon - $52.99.
9) Solus Ad – Barbera D’Asti 1998 A wonderful Red Wine from the Piedmont region of Italy. $34.99

Bonus taste:

Titus 2003 Cabernet Sauginon.

Coming up at TREASURES OF THE VINE:
Screaming Eagle Tasting coming up cost $250 and you get to taste 2 years of this cult wine from Jean Phillips and there are also hard to get wines on this unbelievable tasting. Share your tasting and you’ll get to experience some of the best wines in the world.

Stop in and say Hi to Dustin, Shannon or Lance during your next visit to the Palm Desert-LaQuinta Area it’s a great location next to another hot spot Okura Robata Grill and Sushi Bar and of course Las Casuelas and the Falls Steakhouse.

-Brian

Cool Websites to Find Wine Tastings in Your Area

2006-02-01T06:50:00.000-08:00

Just found a great website to stay up to date with Wine Tastings in Your Area and they have listings for all over the world!

One note - If you live in San Francisco and choose wine events in SF Area - you wouldn't see events coming up in Napa or Sonoma even though the counties are part of the SF metro. So Add Napa and Sonoma to your weekly e-mail.

Likewise in Seattle you have to choose Woodinville to see events that are in the Seattle Metro, but not within the city limits.

-Brian

http://www.localwineevents.com/

If you're single check out this one - www.winesingles.com

Super Wine Weekend - Silver Oak Release Party!

2006-01-31T09:07:00.000-08:00

This is Super Bowl weekend but it's also Super Wine Weekend in Napa.

This Saturday is one of Silver Oak's world famous release parties! And this one should be fantastic because its for the 2001 Napa Cab. Why only '01 when everyone else is on to the '02 and newer? Because Silver Oak keeps their wines in American Oak (yes American) longer than other wineries, which is one reason for its unique taste.

In Napa Valley take Hwy 29 or Silverado Trail and turn onto Oakville Cross road - you won't be able to miss the California Highway Patrol directing you into the parking lot...wait isn't that called entrapment?

Because of the crowds this weekend a lot of other wineries will also have special offerings. Tasting notes from previous years - the Alexander Valley is typically sweeter with fruit forward taste, while the Napa has always been hearty, beefy and chewy!

Have fun and don't over do it...

Here is the information borrowed from www.silveroak.com

Upcoming Release Day: Saturday, February 4, 2006Featuring....2001 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

More than a decade ago people started waiting outside our door to be among the first to taste our new release. Today we continue the tradition and would like to invite you to our 2001 Napa Valley Release Day.

Again this year, small quantities of a desirable library wine will be released for sale and a selection of delicious hors d'oeuvres will be offered. At the Alexander Valley Estate large format bottles of older vintages will be opened and guests will enjoy live music in the fountain courtyard. In Oakville, Winemaker Daniel Baron will be on hand to sign bottles and Thomas Arvid will have a selection of his gallery on display. We invite you to reconnect with old friends and taste the 2001 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., sales will continue until 4:00 p.m.

Price: $20 per tasting, includes a complimentary Silver Oak wine glass.
Wine is $100 per 750 ml bottle and the allocation is 6 bottles per person.

For more information, please call: 800.273.8809

Just Another Rainy Day in Seattle

2006-01-30T14:03:00.000-08:00

Seattle – Cabin fever is setting in…after all its only rained 40 of the last 42 days and this is the 15th weekend of rain...but who's counting? Yes, Seattle is living up to its rainy reputation this year...we were so spoiled last year with sunshine and 70's degrees in February.

So it looks like Golf is out of the question…after all who wants to wear chest waders and Goretex to play?

So wine tasting is a good distraction.

Destination – The Tasting Room - Post Alley near Pike’s Place Market.
And my luck Chris Dowsett the winemaker of Latitude 46 North named after its location on the map –Eastern Washington. Funny for some reason I remember living at 30 North/90 West…otherwise known as New Orleans. Enough with the GPS readings…on to the wine.
Chris (he) is on hand to educate, share blending stories and pass the day…

As a warmup I choose to start with a wine that’s actually from another Washington winery - Wineglass Cellars – The 2004 Chardonnay (In The Buff) $13 Crisp and clear because its never seen oak!

Now on to Latitude 46 North – the logo on the bottle looks similar to the Seattle Mariners.

1) 2004 Gewurtraminer Celilio Vineyard $20 – Nice surprise it’s a dry Gewurtz and very delightful.

2) 2004 Clifton Cuvee $18 This is a blend of 76% Syrah and 24% Grenache. Chris learned a lot of working with Shiraz (same grape-Aussie Spelling) from being an exchange student down under. This wine has nice start with fruit forward and very nice smooth finish from the Granache.

3) 2002 Vindication $29 Like to see that Chris bucking the (no Merlot) trend and is leading with 70% Merlot, 26% Cabernet, 4% Syrah. The wine doesn't qualify for being called a Meritage with syrah added, but is fantastic his premier wine. And this blend vindicates Chris as a fine wine maker.

The great thing about the tasting room is the tasting options…you can buy wine by the Taste (1 oz.), Sample (3 oz.), Glass or entire bottle.

Some items worth tasting during your visit…

Camaraderie Cellars2002 & 2003 Cabernet Franc $25 – The ’02 is better and is more representative of what you’ve come to expect in a Washington Cab Franc.

2002 Malbec - $32 What a wonderful delight to taste a 100% varietal that is normally just used in Bordeaux Blends.Some of the best Cabernet’s available for tasting are from Wineglass Cellars.
Listed in the order you should taste them:
2000 Cabernet Sauvignon $21
2000 Reserve Cab $28
2000 Cabernet Sauvignon Elerding Vineyard this is the biggest and its worth the price of $45.

Yes its still raining and wine tasting is one indoor sport you can use to pass away the winter doldrums.

The Great Tastes of 2005

2006-01-05T18:18:00.000-08:00

Have you ever tried to keep track of the wine consumed during a year...here's the partial list of 2005...it was a very good year! Highlights are in Bold!

2001 Joseph Phelps Insignia

2000 White Hall Lane Merlot

2001 White Hall Lane Cabernet Sauvignon

1999 White Hall Lane Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

1999 White Hall Lane Cabernet Sauvignon

1998 White Hall Lane Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

2000 Pahlmeyer

1999 Pahlmeyer Meritage

2000 Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon

1990 Gainey Pinot Noir (only 294 cases produced)

1997 ZD Cabernet Sauvignon

2001 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

2001 Flora Springs Out of Sight Cabernet Sauvignon

2001 Flora Springs Holy Smoke Cabernet Sauvignon

2001 Imagery Cabernet Franc

2001 Imagery White Burgundy

2001 TAZ Barbera

2001 Franciscan Magnificant

2000 Franciscan Magnificant

1999 Franciscan Magnificant

2002 Del Dotto Cabernet Franc

2001 Del Dotto Cabernet Sauvignon

Bernard Moray Santenay 1er Cru “Passetemps” Cote de Beaune Burgandy

2001 Sanford Pinot Noir

Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2000 tasting:
2001 Chateauneuf-du-Pape Rousanne, Grenache Blanc
2000 Domaine de la Janasse
2000 Chateau LaNerthe
2000 Chateau de Beaucastel
2000 Domaine de Beaurenard

---------------------------------
4th of July tasting:
LeDucq Meritage Vertical '92, '98, '99 and '01

J Lohr Cabernet Vertical

2000 Franciscan Cabernet Sauvignon
-----------------------------------

2002 Flora Springs Wine Thieves

1999 Chateau Montelena Zinfandel

St. Vincent Primitove Sangiovese

2001 KAZ Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon

2003 Serra Estrela Albarino (Spain)

2002 Giradet Cellars “Baeo Noir” Pinot Noir blend

2000 Walla Walla Vintners Cabernet Franc

1998 ZD Cabernet Sauvignon

2000 Pahlmeyer Merlot

2000 Reverie Meritage

1999 Franciscan Magnificant

1998 Franciscan Magnificant

2002 Sanford Pinot Noir

2001 LeDucq (now Ehler’s Estate)

1999 Twomey Merlot (sister wine of Silver Oak).

Birthday Week Wines:
2001 Staglin
1995 Franciscan Library Reserve Cabernet
2002 Del Dotto "David"
2001 Quintessa
2002 Franciscan Cabernet Sauvignon
-----------------------------

2001 Curtis Heritage Cuvee

1999 Hanna Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

1999 Merryvale Merlot

2002 Robert Mondavi Pinot Noir

2001 “Bommarito” made by White Hall Lane Cabernet Sauvignon

2002 Reverie Cabernet Franc

1999 Arrieta Cult Wine (Meritage) Super premium micro-winery featuring Bordeaux and Merlot/Syrah blends handmade in small quantities by winemaker John Kongsgaard in partnership with wine auctioneer Fritz Hatton.

2002 Moon Mountain Meritage

1998 Steltzner Cabernet Sauvignon

1997 ZD Cabernet Sauvignon

2001 Stag’s Leap Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon

2002 Wente Pinot Noir and French Bordeaux

Plus many more…!

Don't even want to put a price tag on this list...but Wow!

-Brian

Le Beaujolais Nouveau Est Arrivé in Seattle!

2005-11-17T16:47:00.000-08:00

It's a tradition ... every year, to celebrate the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau, parties are thrown in France, the USA, and throughout the world!

12:01 AM and at Seattle Cellars in Belltown they're proclaiming "Le Beaujolais Nouveau Est Arrivé !" However you pronounce it en Francais - tranlation "the new Beaujolais has arrived!"

People are on hand for the first Beaujolais wine tasting of 2005! As has been the tradition at Seattle Cellars, Pajamas are acceptable attire. Is this how they do it in France? Non!
But its funny to see Dave and his staff in their PJ's.

Nice to see they had 6 Beaujolais on hand for tasting starting with a George Duboeuf. Another great thing about the wine is the prices are reasonable from $8.99 - $12.00.

And if you missed the midnight tasting join them for another Beaujolais Nouveau tasting at the regular Thursday tasting from 5-7 PM at Seattle Cellars - 2nd/Wall Belltown.

Little history on the tradition - which I first discovered in New Orleans.

Beaujolais is made from the Gamay grape and was harvested the 1st week of September.
Beaujolais is sold every year beginning the third Thursday in November. Not always as popular as it is now Beaujolais itself comes from the Beaujolais region of southern Burgundy (that's in France - not New Orleans where they say Bur Gun Dee).

Recently, Beaujolais has come into fashion, and the hype is you want to be one of the 1st people from all over the world to taste it.

You can credit the hype and endless self promotion to one Georges Duboeuf. You'll instantly recognize his Beaujolais Nouveau from its colorful artwork on the label.

Why all the hype - Beaujolais Nouveau is an easy to drink fruity wine. (Can you say Kool-Aid or grape juice?) Serve slightly chilled and its as close to white wine as a red wine can get.

Drink it now and enjoy - also a great wine to share on Thanksgiving!

Napa Red Table Wine or Meritage?

2005-10-17T13:00:00.000-07:00

Napa - After attending a fantastic seminar call "The Art of Blending" - how they make Magnificat (2002 - $45) at Franciscan. Where you get to blend the five noble Bordeaux grapes from the '03 barrels and make up your own blend and then compare it against the '02 Magnificat.

We said why not compare it against the legendary - Opus One makers of a "2002 Napa Red Table Wine - $165".

I asked the guy working at Opus why "Meritage" didn't appear on the label. Oddly he didn't have a good explanation (or good accent), so I asked my friends at Meritage Association. www.meritagewine.org

My question: "Why doesn't Opus One use Meritage on their label and is it really a Meritage?"

Hello Brian,

Opus One got started a good 15 years before the Meritage Association was born, and sees no need to define itself further (by using 'meritage' on the label, for example) -- Phelps Insignia and Opus pretty much defined the category for quite a while. They are indeed Meritage blends, but they choose not to say so on their labels.
The Meritage Association got started in 1988 when more and more vintners were making wonderful blends that didn't qualify for varietal labeling (min.75% varietal required). Even less well known Meritage blends -- even those who have joined the Meritage Association -- sometimes choose not to label their wines "Meritage." It is a useful category name that is helpful to consumers, so I for one am always grateful when a winery provides the information on their label. Hope this helps?

Michaela Rodeno
Chair, Meritage Association

Thanks Michaela it helps a lot. Let's refresh you on some of the merits of Red Meritage:

Must be a blend of at least two of the following - Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot and/or the rarer Carmenere, Gros Verdot and St. Macaire.
No single grape may make up more than 90% of a Meritage wine.
By law, a wine labeled as a specific varietal must be composed of 75% or more of that grape variety.

Oddly enough the Opus One 2002 Napa Red Table Wine was a blend of the 5 main Bordeaux grapes and was 86% Cabernet Sauvignon - so by definition they could call it a Cabernet Sauvignon or Meritage because it qualifies for both.

For more information on the "Art of Blending - Magnifcat" seminar ($25) www.franciscan.com

Insider's tip - If you love Franciscan Magnifcat - you can buy the 2000 - under the name of Winemaker's Reserve -$25 - great value - the only year that Merlot was the leading grape for their Meritage Blend.

Lafayette Art & Wine festival

2005-09-16T20:29:00.000-07:00

Lafayette, CA - 10th Annual L afayette Art & Wine Festival September 17 & 18, 2005

The Lafayette Art & Wine Festival, held each year on the third weekend in September, is the largest event in Lamorinda and one of the five biggest outdoor festivals in Contra Costa County. More than 80,000 attended in 2004, strolling among stalls of art, handmade crafts, sampling foods from top local restaurants, and enjoying quality wines and microbrews. Non-stop musical entertainment on three stages throughout the weekend helps spark the block party ambiance. In 2002, the Connoisseur’s Corner debuted, highlighted by cooking demonstrations by some of the area’s best chefs and featuring a “Premium Wine Pavilion” offering tastes of some of the world’s finest wines.

http://www.lafayettechamber.org/pages/artwine.htm#Festival%20Beer%20&%20Wine%20Packages

Summer Concert Series Chateau St. Michelle

2005-07-29T08:59:00.000-07:00

Woodinville, WA - July 27, 2005.

It's a beautiful Wednesday for the drive up to Chateau St. Michelle for their Summer Concert Series.

On the bill tonight - Tears For Fears...was it really 20 years ago the last time I saw them in concert...it was...but I regress more on the pre-game and then we'll give a critique of the show.

Thanks to my friends at QFC I'm set up for the VIP treatment - armbands and wine glass in hand - we're off. The arrival wine was Canoe Ridge 2003 Chardonnay or 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon. It's 85 degrees so I opt to start with the Chardonnay - made in the old world style it's very refreshing and the fruit isn't hidden by the French oak.

After indulging in the great food, it's time to try the Canoe Ridge Vineyard ® Cabernet Sauvignon. A Cab blend that is bold and intense. 100 percent French oak barrels. The aromas of bright fruit, pepper with balanced tannins and a hint of cedar.

Great warm up - time to check out the seats - we're in the Walla Walla section (front & center) - sections are designated by Washingtion AVA's...some of my other friends were in Red Mountain section.

Cool we have great seats - time to enjoy more wine before the main act.

Frist on the tasting menu, bucking the trend after Sideways - we start with a 2001 Northstar Merlot ($55) - this is a big merlot (with 25% Cab in the blend) - rivaling Napa. Smokey and herbal aroma...it's a hit and the best wine of the evening so far...but we know what's next;

1999 Col Solara ($69) a Cab Blend as they say "A Washington wine with the soul of Tuscany" Formed by a partnership with Tuscany's Marchesi Antinori and Chateau Ste. Michelle. This one scored 92 points and checking internet price can be stolen for $39.99
Can't get enough of the Col Solara - it's amazing! and of course we run out fast when friends find out what we're pouring. It's easy to make friends when you have great wine.

Hot air balloons head south over the valley - its a beautiful night.

Time for Tears For Fears - they start off with one of their newer songs that wasn't as popular, but then they get into the hits "Sowing the Seeds of Love", "Head Over Heels", "Woman in Chains", "Mother's Talk" and of course "Everybody Wants to Rule The World".

Yes it's been 20 years, but I'm singing along with every song, time to break out their "Best Of" CD again - they used to be one of my favorite bands in the 80's.

Next on the menu - 2001 Chateau St. Michelle Artist Series Meritage - like the fact their paying to use "Meritage" on the label. (FYI: "Meritage" is an American word created by Merit + Heritage and doesn't rhyme with Hermitage!) 68% Cab Sauv, 16% Merlot and 16% Malbec which adds beautiful color.

The last hour been enjoying bottled water for the ride home. It's been a great night - Tears For Fears is into their encore playing "Change" time to beat the rush out of the valley.

I recommend Chateau St. Michelle for their Summer Concert series. A great venue, great value and great hospitality. Bigger presentation than that of Wente in California's Livermore Valley.

http://www.ste-michelle.com/

A Great Birthday

2005-07-19T20:45:00.000-07:00

Wines to share and celebrate your (my) Birthday.

'01 Staglin Cabernet Sauvignon - $100
'96 Franciscan Library Reserve Cabernet - $75
'99 Quintessa - $100
'01 Del Dotto - David - $85
'99 Franciscan Cabernet Sauvignon - $25

No corkage fee - priceless.

Picking a favorite was easy - Staglin hands down produces one of the best Cabs in Napa and beyond.

Mount Veeder Release Party @ Franciscan

2005-04-24T20:29:00.000-07:00

Rutherford - We're in the Napa Valley for the ($80) '01 Mt Veeder Reserve Release party.

So far all of the '01 Cabs and blends have been fantastic from this region.

The release parties hosted by the amazing staff at Franciscan are always special. Great wine, generous food, live music and knowledgeable pourers with some pleasant surprises.

Upon arrival we're greeted by free valet parking - nice touch! Checking in, we're on the list and need a warm up with some of '02 Franciscan Chardonnay - you have to quaff with something.

Then its off to the wine library for the party. The area is broken down into 7 tasting areas; Current Vintage, Barrel Samples, Older Cabs, Something Special, Older Reserves, Zins and of course the '01 Mt. Veeder Reserve.

We agree to start with the current vintage which is the ($65) '01 Mt Veeder (regular) Cabernet - it's a blend of 75% Cab, 24% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot. Very dark, rich with berry flavor up front and a touch of tobacco on the finish. This wine will blow the doors off most Napa cab's and we haven't even tasted the reserve yet.

We grab some food - and make a dash for the Older Reserve room, one of my favorite hosts - Big Bill is there with ($120) '96 Reserve and ($70) '00 Reserve. Bill always has a great story and gives us a generous pour - can it get any better? The '96 is everything you ever want in a Cab blend - it has mellowed and the finish is almost orgasmic.

More food and we head over to see Mike in the Something Special room. The special was ($80) '97 Cab Sauv, but Mike was telling the women in our group that he was the one who made it special...and with his British accent and gray hair the ladies were in agreement. Mike gives us a tip to try the Barrel Samples next to taste the difference between French and American oak with the same wine.

We taste the '03 Cab in American Oak first - very nice - still lots of tannins. Next '03 Cab from French Oak - Oh Wow! Viva La France! - you can immediately taste why the cost is 3 times that of the American Oak. The '03 in French Oak is so good that the vintage is going to be one of the best - right up there with '99 and '01! The word's out and now there's getting to be a big crowd for the barrel samples. So I decide to make a few friends and took some glasses of the '03 French Oak barrel sample to the pourers in the other rooms.

We see the other Bill and his wife in the "Older Cabernets" room and they have ($75) - '99 Mt. Veeder Cabernet. 79% Cab, 13% Merlot, 5% Cab Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. This is one of my other favorites, but I'm a sucker for Cab Franc. You can't go wrong with this one...and we still haven't tasted the new release yet!

Two more tasting stations to go...thankfully they have lots of food and water.

On to the outer library - this is it and I'm ready for the '01 Mt Veeder Reserve. At Mt. Veeder you get a Bordeaux blend with the reserve wines. This one leads with Cabernet, but not as much Cab Franc as previous years. Big fruit, dark cherry, coffee with an extremely long finish which I've learned earlier in the day is reflective of the new French Oak. More balanced than other wines this young. Winemaker Larry Levin really knows how to make a great blend.

We're grabbing more water and food - skewers, cheese and pig-in-blanket tastes really good after all this wine. Chow down Bob!

One more room to go - Mt Veeder's most recent addition - ZIN ($25) for the either '01 or '02 Zinfandel. Its not what I've come to expect from Napa Zins - that taste like raisin or prune up front. This has more complexity and depth with a simple finish. Very nice and you can't beat the price.

It's been a long day and this time we decide that one winery is enough...normally we'd head over to see Tony at Whitehall Lane...next time.

Besides I'm supposed to pack up the rest of my wine and drive to Seattle tomorrow, better get a good nights sleep.

-Brian

Mt. Veeder is one of the growing Constellation wine brands - note they just completed their purchase of Robert Mondavi. http://www.mtveeder.com/

Sonoma Spotlight on Italian Wines

2005-02-25T15:40:00.000-08:00

-Sonoma 2/20

Participating Wineries: Blackstone, Family Wineries, Kaz, Kunde, VJB and Wellington.

Highway 12 north of Agua Caliente heading into Kenwood...

Where our 1st stop was Kunde winery. Our host was John who poured '01 Barbera ($24) - very nice ripe red fruit with a nutty finish. Their other italian offering was '01 Sangiovese ($24) which has a wonderful nose, floral and a nice oak finish.

But the real gems were out in the main tasting room. Start with the '03 Chardonnay Nu ($20) - no malolactic fermentation - au natural! Don't miss the '00 Cab Franc ($24) - cherry cola taste with a touch of dark chocolate and finish up your tasting with '01 Bob's Red ($15) - a great value - robust red blend. '00 Claret ($25) berry with a pepper finish and the '00 Cabernet Sauvignon/Drummond ($70) - Rich, big andn tasty!

Continuing north on 12, then taking a left on Dunbar is Wellington. They sell over 25 wines ranging from Sauv. Blanc to Port. Unfortunately a bus had pulled in before us...so we grabbed our 5 tastes and we're off...great wine, but too busy.

The next two were pleasant discoveries:

VJB Vineyards is producing some of the best Italian wines that Sonoma has to offer.
We were blown away from the '04 Sangiovese ($24) ...like an unexpected french kiss - this gets you up front with amazing fruit burst. Get it fast only 125 cases produced.
'04 Belmonte Family Estate Montepulciano ($26) is even more limited with only 50 cases being produced. A nice medium red with ripe cherry and plum flavors with a touch of cedar at the end. '04 Primitivo ($26) - an Italian cousin to Zinfandel. This is a spice fruity red that was the one I'd ever describe as being effervescent - refreshing. '04 Barbera ($30) - deep color rich with a blackberry finish...had to taste a few times after the uniqueness of the Primitivo. VJB also produces a very nice Reserve Cab.

KAZ - if you're lucky enough to have the old Kazola wait on you - it will be a memorable trip.
His '03 Sangiovese and '03 Lake Co. Barbera were very nice. But their unique blends are a work of genius. We had so much fun here that I lost my tasting notes...it's been known to happen.

Don't miss VJB and KAZ during your next Sonoma visit.

Ciao!

-Brian

Wine Tasting in Washington

2005-02-08T10:45:00.000-08:00

Just moved to Seattle and after over 10 years in California, I was ready to sample the Washington Wines.

1st trip to nearby Woodinville was great.

Chateau St. Michelle - (on a rainy Sunday) - not crowded and their welcome wine would be one of the best I've tasted that day. 2001 Chateau St. Michelle Reserve - Syrah. Very deep in color and very balanced. List $29 was on sale for around $19. Great Value - need to buy more.

Take the tour at Chateau St. Michelle - the wall of awards is worth the trip. Plus you get to sample some different wines then what's available in the tasting room. Beautiful grounds...can't wait for summer concerts.

Columbia Winery: (same day) Was so excited to find out that I'm a member - because I'm in their sister's wine club Franciscan-Napa. So wine tasting was free and you get to sample all the reserve products. Fantastic service, but can get busy when the wine train is there - then a limited menu of wines is offered. Note: don't worry if you see a lot of people in costume - they do murder mysteries on the train. Columbia has some of the best Bordeaux blends. Full body with great finish.

That was enough wine for one trip. Details on wine tasting in Seattle coming up.

-Brian

Weekly Wine Tasting at Wine Thieves in Lafayette, CA

2005-01-08T11:02:00.000-08:00

The secret is out about Wine Thieves in Lafayette, California. Just 15 miles from SF in the East Bay.

Stop by on Fridays from 5:30 - 7:00 pm for the weekly wine tastings and did I mention its Free!
A different distributor or winery brings in around 5 wines weekly for tastings. See schedule at www.winethieves.com Become one of the regulars and you'll be invited to dinner to the casual Bo's barbecue or more upscale Postino. Both worth the trip!

Owners Jim, Bennett and Rod will greet you with a smile and are very knowledgeable about wine. The best aspect about Wine Thieves is the value. They can turn you on to a $10-$15 wines that are a lot better then some I've paid 3-4x that much!

Look for the unbelievable deals - currently Sequoia Grove - Reserve Cab under $20 and the steal in the store is the '99 Belvedere Sonoma County Cabernet - $14.99. They also had Veramonte Primus - very spicy finish perfect with the hot sauce across the street at Bo's.

-Brian