Wine With Wanda

A Taste of Lodi and the Sierra Foothills: The Wines of Ironstone Vineyards

    Joan Kautz, Co-owner and Vice President of International Operations, Ironstone Vineyards

The Sierra Foothills may be best known as the epicenter of the California Gold Rush, but the region also has a rich wine history and the Kautz family has played an essential role. They settled in Lodi 1926 and opened their first winery in 1968. This family business has grown tremendously over four generations and their holdings in Lodi and the Sierra Foothills now span more than 5,000 acres. They protect these precious acres, and the environment, by adhering to sustainable viticulture practices.

I had the pleasure of learning more about the Kautz legacy, and their Lodi and Sierra Foothills wines, in an Instagram Live conversation with Joan Kautz, a fourth generation member of this influential winemaking family. If you missed the IG Live chat and tasting, watch it above or on YouTube. Equipped with broad knowledge of agriculture, wine making, and consumer trends; Joan has held the position of Vice President of International Operations for the family’s wine portfolio since 1993. Under her leadership, the Kautz family's wines are available in 50 countries around the world. 


2018 Ironstone Vineyards Chardonnay
"Our Chardonnay exhibits refreshing aromas of fresh green apples, citrus, and tropical fruits. As it dances across the palate, light citrus layered with fresh peaches fills the mouth as soft vanilla and oak notes linger. Good acidity gives it a crisp balance with a creamy medium-length finish."

During our conversation, we tasted Ironstone Reserve Cabernet Franc 2017 and Ironstone Chardonnay 2018. Ironstone is currently selling both wines on their website as a specially priced set for $37. You can also find Ironstone's wines at retailers around the country. 

2017 Ironstone Vineyards Reserve Cabernet Franc 
"Our Reserve Cabernet Franc is an elegant, rich yet soft wine. With fleshy black cherry, blackberry,  and spicy oak aromas this seductive Cabernet Franc is worth drinking now or cellaring for a special occasion. Succulent, dark fruit flavors of plum, black cherry with a hint of sweet oak fills the palate and gives way to a smooth, medium finish."

Let There Be Wine: Viña VIK Crafts Exceptional Chilean Wines From a Place of Gold

 

“VIK is a book. Every glass is a chapter. Every sip is a page.”
Cristián Vallejo, Chief Winemaker, Viña VIK

Whether he’s discussing vineyard management, barrel selection, or the artistry of wine; a conversation with winemaker Cristián Vallejo of Viña VIK is an exhilarating journey. A true visionary, when Cristián accepted the offer in 2006 to become the chief winemaker for Viña VIK, there were no vines planted. Others may have been daunted by the challenge but Cristián was invigorated. “I saw 11,000 wild unplanted acres, dug into the soil, and knew immediately this virgin land had the potential to create a wine which could stand among the world’s best.” Cristián’s intuition was right. Full of flavor, nuance, and passion; VIK wines are exceptional.

The story of Viña VIK begins with Norwegian entrepreneur Alexander Vik. In 2004, he envisioned a world-class vineyard that would produce unique wines and Vik's quest led him to Chile's Millahue Valley, which means Place of Gold, the name given to this special terrain by the indigenous people. Located in the interior of the valley, Viña VIK boasts a varied terroir and small microclimates with distinct exposures. Cooled by coastal breezes, this geological diversity imbues the grapes with a complexity that is the foundation of great wine. "80% of what you do is in the vineyard and that's the key to the final flavor," said Cristián. For example, to obtain the best quality grapes, VIK always harvests manually and at night, when the grape is coolest.  

image courtesy of Viña VIK

With experience at some of the world's most celebrated wineries in Chile, France, and Spain, Cristián is passionate about crafting wines that are a true expression of terroir. Opting for indigenous yeast during fermentation and refraining from filtering the wines are some of the techniques Cristián implements at VIK to achieve this authenticity. "I don't like to make muscle wines. I want people to finish the bottle." VIK describes themselves as a holistic winery and their portfolio currently consists of three exceptionally well-made wines that are the embodiment of vision, artistry, passion, nature, technology, and intuition. Trust me, finishing a bottle of VIK won't be a problem. 



True confession: my first taste of VIK 2013 ($165.00) was so intense that I blurted out to Cristián, "This is what it must be like to kiss Antonio Banderas!" Admittedly, this is not the most technical of observations but VIK inspired a truly emotional response. That's what the very best wines do. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (67%), Cabernet Franc (17%), Carmenere (14%), and Merlot (2%), this Bordeaux-inspired blend is rich and plush with great freshness and intensity -- just like a perfect kiss. Aged for 23 months in new French oak barrels, VIK's vibrant red & black fruit flavors are enhanced by a tinge of espresso and mocha. With a virtually never-ending finish, VIK is an elegant and thrilling journey. 


VIK Milla Cala 2014 ($44.99) is a captivating blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (55%), Carmenere (27%), Syrah (12%), Merlot (4%), and Cabernet Franc (2%). The five grapes are well integrated but the Carmenere peeks out of the glass just enough to imbue this blend with an unabashedly Chilean sensibility. Aged for 21 months, Milla Cala is complex yet approachable. 

It takes a lot of chutzpah to name a wine "the most beautiful" but there's nothing timid about VIK La Piu Belle 2011($99.99). From the striking artistry of the bottle to the va va voom nature of the vino within, La Piu Belle will not be ignored. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (51%), Carmenere (31%), Cabernet Franc (8%), Merlot (6%), and Syrah (4%) that was aged for 21 months, La Piu Belle is silky, sassy, and sumptuous. The conversation-piece bottle was painted by artist Gonzalo Cienfuegos as an homage to art, the art of winemaking, and VIK's passion for both. Aged for 21 months in new French oak, La Piu Belle is a compelling expression of vibrant fruit with herbal accents. 

image courtesy of Viña VIK

If you're planning a trip to Chile, friends have told me that VIK is an impressive and immersive experience. The expansive property boasts world-class accommodations and invites guests to indulge in a wide variety of activities, including wine tasting, horseback riding, fine dining, trekking, and spa treatments. A visit to Viña VIK has certainly been added to my wine travel wish list! 

image courtesy of Viña VIK

Five Fantastic Wines to Share with Someone Special

A beautiful bottle of wine is the perfect way to express your feelings for someone special. Whether you're having a romantic dinner or catching up with your circle of friends, add some magic to the moment with a special wine. 

Sipping la vie en rose is elegantly easy with superb Champagne Palmer & Co. Rosé Reserve ($80). A beautifully balanced blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier; this unique bubbly has a special touch of magic -- an infusion of Pinot Noir from a forty-year-old solera from Les Riceys. The Pinot Noir from the solera enhances this vibrant wine with spice, depth, and complexity. This sip is utterly charming with delicate bubbles. Fresh red & black fruit flavors meld harmoniously with the richer fruit flavors from the solera wine. Truly elegant and special!

Add some sweet liquid sunshine to gray winter days with Inniskillin Riesling Ice Wine 2017, Niagara Estates ($90). Made from Riesling grapes that were frozen on the vine, the wine’s intense sweetness is balanced by vibrant natural acidity. The rich honey, tropical, and citrus flavors are a delicious reminder of sunny days ahead! Not just for dessert, a perfect match with pâté and other savory foods.

If I ruled the world, everyone would be drinking more Cabernet Franc! This elegant Robert Mondavi Oakville Cabernet Franc Napa Valley 2015 ($65) gets a bit of muscle from a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon, but the litheness of the Cabernet Franc still shines through. I recommend opening this bottle up for an hour or so before drinking so that the rich and sultry dark berry flavors can really open up. These bold and juicy fruit flavors meld nicely with kisses of spice and sashay along a thread of silky tannins. A big wine but not unwieldy, a very sexy sip!


Such a lovely vino! Ferzo Passerina Terre di Chieti 2017 ($26) from Abruzzo (Italy) has vibrant and perky flavors of citrus and chamomile, a touch of grass and salinity, and crisp minerality on the long dry finish. In Italian “Ferzo” refers to a patch of fabric that is stitched together with others to create a sail. Ferzo wines are crafted from Abruzzo’s finest viticultural patches. Quite delicious!

Malbec and Cabernet Franc form a beautiful partnership in BenMarco Expresivo 2016 ($35). A captivating wine from legendary winemaker Susana Balbo, it is a vibrant expression of the Uco Valley of Mendoza, Argentina. Big and bold, Expresivo elegantly shows off luscious blackberry, blueberry, and violet flavors with a touch of red bell pepper, graphite and pepper. An exceptional sip! 

The Wine Next Door: A Manhattanite Discovers the Beauty of Finger Lakes Wines

 

Every so often this native Manhattanite needs to be reminded that there's more to New York than my little island. The five boroughs that form the Big Apple may get a disproportionate share of the glory but the Empire State is a sprawling and multi-faceted tapestry. Home to concrete jungles and Mother Nature's majestic masterpieces, New York State has it all, including acres of vineyards and a vibrant wine industry. And the Finger Lakes is one of New York's most exciting wine regions. From indigenous grapes to varieties from far-flung corners of the globe, winemakers and grape growers from the Finger Lakes have earned critical acclaim for their creativity and commitment to quality.

Spread like fingers across central New York, a Native American legend attributes the creation of the Finger Lakes to a divine architect: "The Creator looked upon this land with special favor and reached down to bless it, leaving the imprint of His hand, hence, the Finger Lakes." Geologically speaking, the 11 Finger Lakes were formed as the last ice age ended and enormous holes were left behind by the receding glaciers. Finger Lakes wine country is centered around four main lakes with Native American names: Canandaigua (“The Chosen Spot” or “The Chosen Place”), Keuka (“Canoe Landing” or “Crooked Lake”), Seneca (“Place of the Stone”), and Cayuga (“Boat Landing”). 

There is no shortage of breathtaking lake views in the Finger Lakes region but these water sources aren't just eye candy -  they play an important role in moderating the climate of the vineyards - "cooling in the summer, warming in the winter, and sheltering the vines from temperature extremes" according to the New York Wine & Grape Foundation. The region's natural resources combined with talented winemakers make a formidable alliance. 


I'm definitely guilty of having treated wines from the Finger Lakes like the cute boy next door that I never really paid attention to. Surely, a wine from my own neck of the woods couldn't be as exciting as those from lauded old world regions and trendy new world locations abroad? My recent (and first) visit to the Finger Lakes proved me absolutely wrong. The wines next door are pretty intriguing. From multi-generational family owned wineries with deep roots in the region's viticultural history to more recent immigrants and transplants, the Finger Lakes has about 140 wineries and tasting rooms, each with a unique story.

Fred Frank and his daughter Meaghan represent the 3rd and 4th generations of the world-renowned and family-owned Dr. Konstantin Frank winery.

It isn't an overstatement to say that Dr. Konstantin Frank revolutionized winemaking and ignited the "Vinifera Revolution" in the Finger Lakes. Armed with a Ph.D in viticulture and an innovative mind, Dr. Frank immigrated to the United States from Europe in 1951. Naysayers told him that the region's cold climate made it impossible to cultivate Vitis Vinifera varieties from Europe but Dr. Frank proved them wrong. His pioneering technique of grafting Vitis Vinifera onto native root stock created healthy grapevines and set into the motion the Finger Lakes' destiny as an acclaimed wine region. Cool-climate grapes, such as Riesling and Pinot Noir, do exceptionally well in the Finger Lakes but Dr. Frank's successful early experiments with 60 different varieties provided a blueprint for the diversity of vinifera grapes grown in the region. In 1962, Dr. Frank founded Vinifera Wine Cellars and his descendants continue his legacy of innovation and quality. 



Dr. Konstantin Frank Blanc de Blancs (2013 vintage is available for $29.99)
Few things make me as happy as being greeted with a beautiful glass of bubbly so I knew my visit to Dr. Konstantin Frank was off to a great start! 100% Chardonnay and crafted in the traditional Champagne method, their Blanc de Blancs is fresh and crisp with vibrant flavors of green apple, white pear, chamomile, citrus, and yeasty brioche. Bottle aged on the lees for at least 4 years, it also has a hint of creaminess. An elegant wine that expresses the purity of the Chardonnay grapes and artful winemaking, I dare any Champagne snob to challenge the complexity and beauty of this wine! (I also recommend their 100% Pinot Noir sparkling brut rosé, $34.99, that is pictured at the top of this article.) 



During my visit to the Finger Lakes, I encountered many wines that I had never tasted before and Dr. Konstantin Frank Amber Rkatsiteli 2016 ($34.99) was one of the most intriguing. Thousands of years old, Rkatsiteli (pronounced er-ka-tsee-tely) hails from the Republic of Georgia and is one of the oldest known varieties. Found mainly in cool climate regions of Eastern Europe, it also grows beautifully in the Finger Lakes. Crafted to be reminiscent of the Rkatsiteli wines found in Eastern Europe, this charming expression from Dr. Frank is a medium-bodied dry wine with lively acidity, tangible minerality, and flavors of sweet basil, grapefruit and honeysuckle with hints of warm clove. 


Red Tail Ridge winemaker Nancy Irelan and her winegrower husband Mike Schnelle are relatively new to the Finger Lakes but have made a big impression. In 2004, they used their life savings to purchase their property on the western shore of Seneca Lake and essentially built their winery from the ground-up. New to the area but a veteran of the wine industry, Nancy left behind her position of Vice President of Viticulture and Enology R&D for a large corporate winery (Gallo) in California to pursue her own winemaking vision in the Finger Lakes. The name Red Tail Ridge pays homage to the pair of hawks that live in the woods surrounding the vineyard. Specializing in limited-production wines, experimentation is an essential part of Red Tail's Ridge's identity. In addition to well-known cool-climate grapes like Riesling and Pinot Noir, Red Tail Ridge also produces obscure varieties like Teroldego. Committed to responsible environmental practices, Red Tail Ridge runs on geothermal energy and implements many other strategies that earned it the distinction of being New York State's first LEED Gold Certified winery. 


Can't choose between Riesling and bubbly? Red Tail Ridge Sekt, Sparkling Riesling Extra Brut 2012 ($29.95) beautifully combines the best of both worlds. Produced in the traditional Champagne method, this charming wine is delicate but distinctive with excellent balance between chalky minerality, lively acidity, and vibrant citrus & stone fruit flavors. 


Who knew that a relatively obscure red grape from northern Italy would be a perfect match for the terroir and climate of the Finger Lakes? Nancy Irelan did! Red Tail Ridge Teroldego 2015 ($39.95) does right by this gorgeous grape. Different but absolutely approachable, it has rustic but pretty flavors of ripe dark fruit with tinges of herbs and tobacco. Great structure and acidity hint at good aging potential.  



Born into a family of farmers and winemakers, Johannes Reinhardt traveled far from his native Germany to forge his own identity as a winemaker. Wine was always a part of Johannes's life but in the Finger Lakes he was able to fulfill his dream of owning his very own small boutique winery. In 2013, Johannes and his wife Imelda opened the doors to their Kemmeter Wines tasting room. Combining his hands-on experience and formal training, Johannes makes wines that are precise and soulful.

In a world full of rosé wines, Kemmeter Estate Rosé of Pinot Noir 2017 ($22) is a welcome addition. Fresh and pure flavors of strawberry, cherry, and watermelon are balanced by a dry finish. 



Kemmeter SanSan Riesling 2016 ($35) comes with a heartwarming dedication on the back of the bottle -  "SanSan is the Chinese name for the greatest blessing in my life - my wife Imelda." The eye-catching label also hints at another of the winemaker's passions - music. A portion of Johannes's favorite Bach piece, the Third Orchestral Suite, appears on the bottle. The back label cleverly incorporates a musical scale to designate the sweetness of this elegant off-dry Riesling.


When Mel Goldman was in Nepal working with the Peace Corps he probably never imagined that one day he would own a vineyard in upstate New York. After an impressive career working in industrial and agricultural development in developing countries, in 1997 Mel and his wife Dorothee moved to the Finger Lakes and officially started Keuka Lake Vineyards. In the beginning, Mel focused on selling his grapes but inspired by the excellent quality of the Riesling his vines produced, he immersed himself in the art and science of winemaking. After a few test batches for family and friends, Keuka Lake Vineyards produced their first vintage in 2005 with a bit of guidance from a more seasoned winemaker in the region. Winemaking duties are now the domain of Finger Lakes native Staci Nugent. Staci was away on the day of my visit but her credentials (Masters degree in Viticulture and Enology from the University of California at Davis) and stellar wines speak for themselves. I'm not the only one who thinks so -- Keuka Lake Vineyards wines are available in many of New York's most acclaimed restaurants, including Eleven Madison Park, Gramercy Tavern, and Blue Hill at Stone Barns. 



Keuka Lake Vineyards Upper Eastside Dry Riesling 2017 ($30) is a single vineyard sensation from their 20 Rows Vineyard on the east side of Keuka Lake. Beautifully showing what happens when pristine grapes meet meticulous winemaking, it is crisp and vibrant with fresh citrus flavors. Dry but not austere, the fruit shines through. 

Keuka Lake Vineyards Vignoles 2015, Gently Dry ($14) is a wonderful introduction to this relatively obscure grape. A French hybrid grape also known as Ravat 51 in honor of its breeder J.F. Ravat, Vignoles is a cross between Seibel 6905 and Pinot de Corton. Vignoles never really caught on in France but it is produced by several Finger Lakes winemakers. Quite aromatic, Vignoles is known for its citrusy flavors and lively acidity. 

Everyone should be drinking more Cabernet Franc and Keuka Lake's is quite delicious. Light and graceful with pretty flavors of ripe raspberry. 2017 vintage is available for $22. 



The impact of the Finger Lakes goes far beyond New York state. Oskar Bynke, co-owner of Standing Stone Vineyards and the historic Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard, owns a vine nursery that supplies quality grafted grape vines to California and other major wine regions. Their selection includes Riesling, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Gamay, Viognier, Cabernet Sauvignon, and more. 


image courtesy of the Inn at Glenora Wine Cellars

If you're looking for an authentic and top-notch wine getaway, the Finger Lakes won't disappoint. The region has a diverse selection of accommodations, including the rustic yet chic Inn at Glenora Wine Cellars -- my home base during my visit. The rooms are well-appointed and boast priceless views of Seneca Lake.

My first visit to the Finger Lakes certainly won't be my last. I was impressed and inspired by the excellent wines, stunning landscapes, and hard-working winemakers and winery owners that have committed tremendous time and resources into creating a world-class wine destination that defies expectations. I may live in the Big Apple but I thank the Finger Lakes for reminding me that New York state is wine country!

Thank you to the New York Wine & Grape Foundation for inviting to me participate in this sponsored trip. All opinions expressed in this article are my own.

The Lady of Légende: Bordeaux Winemaker Diane Flamand

Winemaker and ambassador of elegant living, Diane Flamand

I try my best to avoid clichés when I write but I have to say it - winemaker Diane Flamand exudes that timeless elegance and chic style that many French women seem to be born with - the ever elusive and captivating je ne sais quoi.  So it isn't too surprising that the lovely Bordeaux wines that Diane crafts for Légende have that same authentic sophistication. Of course, Légende also has an impressive pedigree - the winery is part of the legendary Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite). The Légende concept started in the 1990's with the goal of offering consumers everyday elegance and an opportunity to experience Bordeaux's different terroirs and tastes. 




Many American consumers remain a bit intimidated by Bordeaux and assume that all wines from this famous region in France's southwest must cost a small fortune. Not true. The Légende wines offer Bordeaux elegance at an accessible price. Recently, I had the pleasure of exploring the wines of Légende at a tasting hosted by Diane during her visit to New York City. Make everyday ooh la la and elegant with one of these delicious Légende wines. 


Légende Bordeaux Blanc 2016 ($17.99)
A refreshing and easygoing white wine with vibrancy and balance, this crisp blend of Sauvignon Blanc (50%), Sémillon (40%), and Sauvignon Gris (10%) melds citrus flavors with a hint of tropical fruits.



Légende Bordeaux Rouge 2016 ($17.99)
Bordeaux is famous for its artful red blends and Légende is a stellar example. This round and juicy blend of Merlot (60%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (40%) has silky tannins, rich fruit, and a hint of earthiness from the deft use of oak. 



Légende Médoc 2015 ($26.99)
A robust blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (60%) and Merlot (40%), this wine from the Médoc peninsula, about 60 km from Bordeaux, is a step up in texture and complexity but still very approachable. Full-bodied with luscious dark berry flavors, a hint of sweet spices, and a subtle smokiness.   



Légende Saint-Emilion 2014 ($44.99)
Juicy and plummy Merlot (85%) dominates this supple blend but a kiss of Cabernet Franc (15%) and a touch of oak adds elegant texture and complexity. 

Légende Pauillac 2014 ($54.99)
The prestigious Pauillac appellation is renowned for wines that marry power and structure with grace and excellent aging potential. Winemaker Diane Flamand describes this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (70%) and Merlot (30%) as a "more approachable Pauillac." Precisely structured but full of life, this wine hits all of the high notes - rich fruit, spice, well-integrated tannins, and an impressively long finish. 



 It was an absolute pleasure to meet Diane and to explore Bordeaux via the elegant wines of Légende. These are wonderful wines that I would not hesitate to share with wine lovers at all levels. Novices will appreciate the easy drinkability of Légende and connoisseurs will recognize the nuances and quality winemaking. 

Pour Some Holiday Cheer: Five Fantastic Red Wines for the Naughty and Nice!

Forget the milk and cookies - if you really want to impress Santa and move off the naughty list, pour him a glass of red wine. Here are five fantastic reds that are certain to add some cheer to your holiday season!

Fontanafredda Barolo Serralunga d'Alba DOCG 2011 ($45)
Italy (Piemonte)
Known as the king of wines, a beautiful bottle of Barolo always dazzles! The big tannins and acidity of the Nebbiolo grape, along with its signature flavors of tar & roses, can often make Barolo overwhelming but this supple beauty from Fontanafredda dances across the palate. Elegant flavors of dried roses and cherries with hints of vanilla and spice, this soft & velvety Barolo is accessible yet impressive. Founded by Italy's first king in 1858, Fontanafredda is one of Barolo’s most historic wineries and located in the village of Serralunga d’Alba.

El Enemigo Cabernet Franc 2011($30)
Argentina (Mendoza)
This is one sexy vino! Spicy, juicy and bold with intense flavors of cassis, dark cherries, currants, and red plums that are balanced by pops of pepper and clove. Forget the mistletoe, pour your sweetie a glass of El Enemigo and besos are guaranteed. 

Casisano Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2011 ($60)
Italy (Tuscany)
Have you been naughty this year? Share a bottle of Casisano Brunello di Montalcino and all will be forgiven. Brunello di Montalcino is one of Italy's most important wines and this beauty from the famed Tommasi family is a lovely expression of the varietal. Produced from a small terraced vineyard in Montalcino, this vibrant and rich wine has tantalizing flavors of dark fruit with lively spice and vanilla accents. 

Markham Vineyards Merlot 2014 ($26)
California (Napa Valley)
Spread the beauty of Merlot with this gorgeous sip from Napa Valley. Founded in 1874, Markham is the fourth oldest continuously operating winery in Napa Valley and the 2014 vintage marks the 35th anniversary of their flagship Merlot. Robust and juicy with mouth-watering flavors of fresh ripe plums, black cherries, and a touch of espresso and spice; this is a joyful Merlot that is perfect for the season. 

 MWC Pinot Noir 2014 ($18)
Australia (Central Victoria)
This elegant, nuanced, and downright delicious Pinot Noir from Down Under is joy in a glass. With pure flavors of cherry, strawberry, and plum heightened by accents of tea and spice, this Pinot Noir displays European finesse while authentically expressing the terroir of Central Victoria. Produced by the family-owned and operated McPherson Wine Company, the MWC line showcases premium wines without pretension for under $20. That's something to celebrate this season! 

 

Sip Like Royalty: Fabulous Fronsac Wines from Château de La Dauphine

Once upon a time there was a lovely princess who had a craving for the finest wine in the land. The royal thirst of Maria Josepha of Saxony, the Dauphine of France and the mother of Louis XVI, led her to Château de La Dauphine in Fronsac. Surely, the reputation of these superb wines, from a vineyard that coincidentally shared her name, proved irresistible to La Dauphine. One of the oldest wine-producing areas in Bordeaux, in the 18th century wines from Fronsac were the most highly prized and expensive wines in the kingdom. 

image courtesy of Château de La Dauphine

Today, the wines of Fronsac may not have the larger-than-life mystique (and price) of Bordeaux appellations like Margaux and St. Emilion, but the region offers high quality wines that don't require a royal budget to enjoy. One of the largest properties in Fronsac, the history of Château de La Dauphine can be traced back to the 17th century and it has only changed hands a few times. In 2015, the property was purchased by the Labrune family and they remain committed to carrying on the previous family's legacy of producing high-quality biodynamic wines that authentically express the finesse of the terroir. 

image courtesy of Château de La Dauphine

 

image courtesy of Château de La Dauphine

Château de La Dauphine grows Merlot and Cabernet Franc at their 130 acre organic vineyard, located on Bordeaux's Right Bank in one of the meandering loops of the Dordogne River. The wines are produced in their ultra-modern facility that respects the integrity of the fruit. I recently had the opportunity to meet with Marion Merker, a representative of the Château, and she stated that their commitment to organic & biodynamic production "is a way to protect employees, community, and consumers." Marion also said that "wine is to share, to enjoy, to taste." I absolutely agree and with their wines priced in the $18-$35 range, Château de La Dauphine makes it easy to spread the joy!

 

 

The wines are absolutely food-friendly and paired beautifully with the meal that we shared at New York City's famed Gotham Bar & Grill. Château de La Dauphine will certainly add a certain ooh la la to your meals at home! 


Château de La Dauphine 2012 is their first vintage produced in collaboration with famed oenologist Michel Rolland and also the first year of their conversion to organic farming. A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, it displays that Rolland style of full-bodied but graceful wines with pure and luscious fruit. An elegant but unpretentious wine, it is velvety and smooth with rich flavors of blackberry, blackcurrant, and dark cherry. The beauty of Château de La Dauphine is that the blend is always 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, so it really allows you to explore the unique qualities of each vintage. The 2010 vintage displays fresh dark fruit flavors along with touches of licorice and spice. 2009 is a bit creamier with hints of vanilla and dried fruits. 


image courtesy of Château de La Dauphine

If you're planning a trip to France, Château de La Dauphine is only 40km from Bordeaux and welcomes visitors (by appointment) for tours, workshops, and lunches. It's worth the trip - they have been awarded gold level prizes for Best of Wine Tourism and even for the lunches served in the property's various picturesque settings. It certainly sounds like everyone gets the royal treatment at Château de La Dauphine!       

The Bordeaux Surprise: These Excellent French Wines Aren't Always Expensive!

image courtesy of ©HarlemEatUp!_DanielDaPhotography

It's no secret that the wines of Bordeaux enjoy an exalted status among connoisseurs and collectors willing to spend impressive sums on these celebrated wines from the southwest of France. However, the big Bordeaux surprise is that the region produces an incredible selection of excellent wines at very affordable prices. These wines aren't just for drinkers with deep pockets - for less than $20 you can sip a bit of that Bordeaux magic!



Mary Gorman-McAdams (Master of Wine and market advisor to the Bordeaux Wine Council), Chef Marcus Samuelsson, and a bottle of Bordeaux at the Harlem EatUp! Festival.
image courtesy of ©HarlemEatUp!_DanielDaPhotography

Lest you think Bordeaux is old-fashioned and fussy, modestly priced Bordeaux wines are showing up in some very cool and unexpected places. Bordeaux has been poured at dinners and tastings at the annual Harlem EatUp! festival since its inception in 2015. Harlem EatUp! was co-founded by renowned Chef Marcus Samuelsson and Mary Gorman-McAdams (Master of Wine and market advisor to the Bordeaux Wine Council) was the catalyst for Bordeaux's partnership with the festival. The wines poured at the festival showed that modestly priced Bordeaux is still of excellent quality and can pair beautifully with a wide variety of cuisine from soul food to sushi, and Italian to Indian.




Bordeaux refers to the region and the wines produced there. Bordeaux's signature red grapes are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. The white grapes are Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadelle.

I recently met with Mary and asked her to recommend five delicious and affordable Bordeaux wines. Here are Mary's picks!


Château La Mouliniere Rosé, Bordeaux 2015 ($10)
This lovely and well-structured rosé is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc,  and Merlot - a fantastic way to experience the red grapes that are the backbone of the classic Bordeaux red blend. Dry, fresh, and fruity with lovely flavors of raspberry and strawberry; this is a great summer sip. Built in the late 16th century, Château La Mouliniere is a single-estate vineyard located on the right bank of the Dordogne River near Saint-Emilion.



Château Marjosse, Entre-Deux-Mers, Blanc 2014 ($17)
This gorgeous white wine comes from an impressive pedigree - Château Marjosse is the home estate for Pierre Lurton - the managing director of two legendary First Growth Bordeaux estates (Château Cheval Blanc and Château d'Yquem). Entre-Deux-Mers means "between two seas" and refers to the area of Bordeaux between the Garonne and Dordogne rivers. This refreshing white wine beautifully combines the region's signature grapes Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Sauvignon Gris, and Muscadelle to create a wine that Mary describes as "fruity and versatile" and with enough elegance and style to bring to a dinner party. 



Château Tour de Goupin, Bordeaux Blanc 2014 ($12)
Described as "dry with a light floral bouquet, crisp textures, and a clean finish," this blend of Sauvignon, Semillon, and Muscadelle is produced on an estate that avoids pesticides and chemicals in the vineyard. 



Château Recougne Bordeaux Superieur 2012 ($15)
Château Recougne has produced wine for more than 400 years and its name is said to have come from King Henri IV in the early 17th century in "recognition" of the quality of its wines. A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine is described as "supple, round, and generous."



Château Capbern Gasqueton, Saint Estephe 2014 ($19)
Owned by the Gasqueton family for 10 generations, Château Capbern is known for producing charming wines with enough structure to age 10-20 years. Mary says that "you don't have to spend a lot of money to start a collection of wine. It isn't just a rich man's sport. Modest wines can age well." This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot is an incredibly affordable way to start your Bordeaux collection. "Hints of smoke, tobacco, licorice, mocha, and earthiness wrap around a core of dark fruit in an exuberant wine loaded with pure textural richness" that will develop beautifully over time.


La Cité du Vin

If you're planning a trip to France, now is an especially exciting time to visit Bordeaux - the stunning vineyards and elegant châteaux have a shiny new neighbor - La Cité du Vin. "An immersive and sensory adventure showcasing the cultures and civilizations of wine," La Cité du Vin is a stunning architectural statement that is meant to evoke the essence and soul of wine. Visitors can experience a variety of interactive experiences, art installations, restaurants, and plenty of wine! A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bordeaux was #2 on The New York Times list "52 Places to Go in 2016" - impressive!