Wine With Wanda

The Class of 1972 Celebrates 50 Years of California Winemaking Excellence

The Class of 1972 is still going strong! Fifty years ago, some of California’s most important wineries were founded. Recently, six of these Napa & Sonoma trailblazers gathered for a surreal tasting, organized by Jordan winery, at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, in St. Helena, California. 

Chateau Montelena, Jordan, Burgess, Diamond Creek, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, and Dry Creek Vineyard each shared a selection of three wines, including some impressive library vintages. 

Stag’s Leap took the assignment to heart and dazzled the group of professional wine tasters with a 1972 S.L.V Cabernet Sauvignon that displayed impressive vitality and grace at 50. (You may recall that 1973 Stag’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon won the Judgement of Paris in 1976, the legendary tasting that showed the world that California was a premier wine region.) 

Chateau Montelena’s 1973 Chardonnay won the Judgement of Paris tasting in the white wine category. And the 2002 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon they poured at the Class of 1972 tasting made a strong case for their prowess with red. 

Jordan knocked it out of the park with a 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon, Burgess charmed the group with a 1989 Cabernet Sauvignon, and Diamond Creek shined bright with their 1993 Red Rock Terrace Cabernet Sauvignon. And Dry Creek Vineyard turned heads with their 1994 Fumé Blanc, a complex and elegant expression of Sauvignon Blanc. 

Each of these wineries has a different winemaking style and terroir, but there are some shared perspectives. Being good stewards of the land, crafting wines that are an expression of terroir, and making wines that can stand the taste of time, are guiding principles that have allowed each winery to innovate, remain authentic, and navigate the changing landscape of consumer preferences.  

Now elders and not rookies, the Class of 1972 has proven themselves, but they’re not just coasting along; they embrace the challenge of stepping up to the plate each vintage. That’s a wise approach to wine and life! 

Will Travel for Wine: Jordan Winery, Alexander Valley, Sonoma

How far will you travel for a delicious glass of wine? I just returned from a whirlwind 36-hour trip out west to Sonoma and Napa – almost 3,000 miles from my home in NYC. And visiting Jordan winery in Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, was worth the jetlag and flight delays. I’ve enjoyed Jordan’s wines for years; photos of their estate have always sparked daydreams of sipping their wine in the Sonoma sunshine. Well, darlings, dreams do come true!

Thursday morning, we drove up Jordan’s dramatic one-mile-long driveway to reach their beautiful château, which houses the winery and tasting room. Founded in 1972, Jordan is situated on 1,200 acres, but vineyards only occupy about 120 acres of the vast estate. Why? Because of the diversity of the terroir, Jordan identified the best plots for their Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Malbec. The remaining 1000+ acres provide a wild and natural habitat for flora and fauna. Sustainability isn’t just talk at Jordan.

Jordan is laser-focused on doing three things: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and hospitality. Maggie Kruse leads the winemaking team at Jordan; she was a protégé of Rob Davis, who joined Jordan just before their first harvest in 1976 and retired in 2019 -- a tenure of more than 40 years!

Jordan pours their passion, resources, and know-how into producing only two wines each year: one Cabernet Sauvignon and one Chardonnay. Inspired by the wines of France, Jordan’s style is balanced and not jammy, with vibrant but not over-ripe fruit, bright acidity, smooth tannins, and finesse. Their precise work in the vineyards and the cellar captures the nuances of each vintage while conveying the signature Jordan style.

And Jordan’s hospitality is top-notch. I enjoyed an excellent tasting and tour, led by with enthusiasm & expertise by Jordan team member Hannah Ingwerson, which included peeks into the château’s secret passageways, and delicious food & wine pairings. They have olive trees too and produce a superb oil.

By Old World standards, fifty is young for a winery, but the Jordan family is an example of New World vision and grit; they are Sonoma trailblazers. Happy 50th, Jordan!

Passionate Pioneers: Bodega Catena Zapata Continues to Innovate and Elevate Argentine Wines

Dynamic is an inadequate descriptor for 4th generation vintner Dr. Laura Catena, Managing Director of Bodega Catena Zapata in Mendoza, Argentina. Known across the globe as one of the most compelling champions of Argentine wines, Laura is also a graduate of Harvard University and Stanford Medical School. For many years, Laura balanced her demanding career as a physician with guiding her family's celebrated winery to greater heights. 


Bodega Catena Zapata's La Pirámide winery in Mendoza. 
image courtesy of Catena Zapata

Malbec may seem ubiquitous now, but during our recent Instagram Live chat Laura shared the challenges she faced in the early 90's when trying to introduce Catena Zapata's wines to the United States. Catena Zapata set a new standard for quality in South America and is widely regarded as the pioneer of Malbec and high-altitude viticulture from Argentina. Catena Zapata's terroir-driven wines elegantly reveal Malbec's full range of expression. 

Watch the video above, or visit Instagram or YouTube, to view my conversation with Laura. While discussing her family's winemaking legacy and philosophy, we also chatted about her charming new book, Gold in the Vineyards: Illustrated Stories of the World’s Most Celebrated Vineyards ($14.99).  


I had the pleasure of visiting Catena Zapata during my 2015 trip to Mendoza. We didn’t meet at that time, but since then I’ve had the pleasure of hearing Laura speak at several wine events in New York City. A few years ago, Laura said something that really stuck with me and I quote her often. Someone once asked Laura what’s next for Argentina after Malbec. She wondered if they would also ask Burgundy what’s next after Pinot Noir. Well played, Laura! 


Catena Malbec 2018 ($24) is a great introduction to the Catena Zapata style. A blend of grapes from four different vineyards, it is intense and velvety with no rough edges. Ripe but not jammy, with lovely kisses of spice and flinty minerality.


Bold and balanced, Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino 2017 ($120) is a wine that powerfully expresses the complexity and charms of Malbec. High-altitude old vines combined with meticulous winemaking all add up to a very special sip with beautifully integrated flavors of fruit, earth, spice, and minerality. The stunning label for Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino tells the story of Malbec by depicting four female figures who represent different landmarks of the grape’s history in France and its ascendence in Argentina. The women pictured on the bottle are Eleanor of Aquitaine, The Immigrant, Madam Phylloxera, and Laura's sister, Adrianna Catena.

Of course, Malbec is Argentina's flagship varietal, but it also produces other high quality wines. I've noticed that many of Mendoza's most celebrated Malbec producers have a great affection and aptitude for Chardonnay. Catena Alta Chardonnay 2017($33) is a stellar sip. Crafted from Chardonnay grapes from 2 high-altitude vineyards, it is rich and juicy without sacrificing crispness. 

Say Hola to Somontano, Spain with the Wines of ENATE

Jesús Artajona Serrano has been the winemaker at ENATE since it was founded in 1992. 

Traveling by trains, planes, and automobiles may be a risky proposition in this age of social distancing, but you can still explore the world through wine. I recently took a joyful journey to Somontano, Spain, with ENATE winemaker Jesús Artajona Serrano on Instagram Live.

image courtesy of Bodega ENATE

Somontano is located in northeastern Spain, south of the Pyrenees, on the natural border with France. I first visited Somontano in 2017 and have been there three times; I fell in love with the wines, the landscapes, and the people. Somontano has a rich winemaking history, and unlike many Spanish regions that are closely associated with a specific indigenous variety, Somontano has gained acclaim for their prowess with international varieties.

Click the video above, or watch my conversation with Jesús on IGTV or YouTube. Founded in 1992, ENATE is a modern and environmentally friendly winery, and celebrating art is an integral part of ENATE's vision; they describe themselves as the place "Where Art and Wine Become One." ENATE's wine bottles are adorned with labels designed by well-known contemporary artists, and the winery has an impressive art gallery. During my chat with Jesús, we tasted the 2019 vintage of ENATE Chardonnay 234 ($13.99) and 2015 ENATE Crianza Tempranillo-Cabernet Sauvignon ($15).

When asked what foods to pair with the wines, Jesùs said that the most important thing is "a good partner in front of you, in a good ambiance, and conviviality." We also discussed ENATE's commitment to environmentally-friendly winemaking, and Jesús stated that "sustainability is not a virtue, it is a duty." And what inspired Jesús to become a winemaker? Jesús had planned on a career in chemistry, but when he was twenty-years-old, he fell in love with a beautiful young French woman and decided to study enology in Bordeaux. Chemistry of a different sort!

Tasting Notes


2019 ENATE Chardonnay 234 ($13.99) 
Label by artist Pepe Cerdá

Very aromatic with notes of green apple, ripe peach, and a hint of tropical pineapple, and guava. Fermented and aged in stainless steel, it is impressively rich and round without sacrificing crispness. Bright acidity and a hint of salinity. A delicious and well-balanced Chardonnay.



2015 ENATE Crianza Tempranillo-Cabernet Sauvignon ($15) 
Label by artist Victór Mira
Ripe red fruit flavors on the nose and palate with a hint of smoke and spice. Full and juicy with a touch of warm toast. The blend is 70% Tempranillo, which was aged in American oak for nine months, and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, which was aged in French oak for nine months before being blended together. 

Celebrating the Sparkling Legacy of Champagne Henriot

 

Amelie Derrieux-Sable, Director of Marketing, Champagne Henriot

I’m still smiling after my sparkling Instagram Live conversation with Amelie Derrieux‑Sable​, Director of Marketing for Champagne Henriot. Known for their distinctive Chardonnay driven style, Champagne Henriot was founded in Reims in 1808 and is one of the few remaining family-owned houses in Champagne.

Watch our chat and tasting by clicking the video above, on Instagram, or YouTube. We started off with their flagship Champagne Henriot Blanc de Blancs ($65). Aged for 4 years on the lees, it is an elegant expression of Chardonnay that sashays across the palate with delicate bubbles, crisp fruit, and that lovely touch of brioche that I always look for in Champagne. We then tasted Champagne Henriot Millésime 2008 ($100), which marks the House’s 200^th vintage. A 50/50 blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the 2008 was aged for 10 years on the lees and has a captivating complexity -- hints of nuts and ginger meld beautifully with vibrant fruit and crisp minerality.

Champagne isn't just for toasting! From appetizers to main courses, Amelie provided some wonderful pairing suggestions that show how beautifully Champagne Henriot can be enjoyed throughout the meal. And if you’re wondering how to pronounce Henriot, Amelie says just remember that the H & T are silent! 

Sip This: Graham Beck Brut Zero 2012 Méthode Cap Classique, South Africa

If you're a fan of sparkling wines, it's time to pop the cork on a bottle of Méthode Cap Classique from South Africa. Made in the same precise and labor-intensive method as Champagne, the bubbles in Cap Classique wines are also created by a second fermentation in the bottle. However, don't think of Cap Classique as an imitation of Champagne; the process is the same, but these wines are an expression of South African terroir. And the wines of Graham Beck are an authentic introduction to the charms of Méthode Cap Classique. 

image courtesy of Graham Beck 

Founded in 1983 by Cape Town native Graham Beck, the estate is located in the Western Cape of South Africa, near the town of Robertson. Robertson is a world away from France, but its limestone-rich terroir shares some similarities with Champagne. Cellarmaster Pieter "Bubbles" Ferreira said, “It’s the unique terroir – perfectly suited to the production of outstanding Cap Classique. We have the richest natural limestone deposits in the Western Cape. All our peers and competitors in the Cap Classique sparkling category are buying Robertson fruit, which is more forgiving and has more flavour than elsewhere. Limestone ensures low pH and natural acidity, so it’s ideal for bubblies.” 

Graham Beck cellarmaster, Pieter "Bubbles" Ferreira, has been with the estate since their first vintage.  
image courtesy of Graham Beck 

Graham Beck passed away in 2010, but Ferreira and the Beck family carry on his winemaking legacy. The Graham Beck portfolio includes a diverse selection of Méthode Cap Classique wines, including vintage, non-vintage, and rosé. And some pretty high profile people have toasted historical moments with their bubblies -- Graham Beck Brut Non-Vintage ($18) was served at Nelson Mandela’s 1994 inauguration and at President Barack Obama’s 2008 election night party, affectionately earning the wine a priceless nickname: “President’s Choice.” 

One of the standout sips is Graham Beck Brut Zero 2012 ($30). A blend of 77% Pinot Noir and 23% Chardonnay, no dosage (sugar) was added, allowing the terroir and vintage to really shine through in each crisp sip. I love the elegant and confident nakedness of this bubbly.

Ponzi Vineyards Celebrates 50 Years of Innovative Winemaking in Oregon

 

Anna Maria Ponzi
Co-owner, President and Director of Sales & Marketing for Ponzi Vineyards 

Second generation vintner Anna Maria Ponzi, of Ponzi Vineyards, had no shortage of exciting news to share during our recent Instagram Live chat. Her parents, Dick and Nancy Ponzi, uprooted their family in the late 1960s to pursue a dream of producing world-class Pinot Noir. True pioneers, the Ponzis were among the first to see the potential of Oregon's Willamette Valley to produce wines of exceptional quality and character. They founded their namesake winery in 1970, and fifty years later their well-earned reputation as one of America's finest and most innovative wineries is stronger than ever. 

Watch the video of my chat with Anna Maria above, on YouTube, or on Instagram to learn more about the Ponzi family's winemaking journey. Anna Maria also shared info about her new memoir, Pinot Girl: A Family. A Region. An Industry. We also discussed the new Laurelwood District AVA; the Ponzi family played a pivotal role in the establishment of this latest American Viticultural Area within the Willamette Valley.

“They described Pinot Noir as a thoughtful wine saying something about how it didn’t call attention to itself–instead it quietly seduced the drinker with its hints of black cherry, mild cigar, and cedar. They would go on and on about how one sip invited complex flavors into the mouth and how hints of earth, mushroom, plum, meat, and truffles could be detected. It all sounded pretty weird to us. We just giggled and made faces when they described how wine tasted like food.” - excerpt from Pinot Girl

Maria's sister, Luisa, assumed winemaking duties from their father in 1993 and Ponzi Vineyards is the nation’s only winery solely owned and operated by second generation sisters.

During our conversation we tasted Ponzi Chardonnay Reserve 2016 ($42) and Ponzi Pinot Noir Reserve 2016 ($65). Both wines are beautifully balanced, expressive, and elegant. Maria shared wonderful tasting notes during our chat. You can also click the wine bottle images to view the detailed descriptions on the Ponzi website. 

 

A True Taste of Trentino: Ferrari Trentodoc Sparkling Wine

How can air be this fresh? My Manhattan lungs weren’t quite prepared for Trentino’s intense infusion of clean and crisp mountain air. I greedily gulped it in. My goodness, it was delicious. I felt absolutely rejuvenated. With air like this, Ferrari sparkling wines start off with a strong advantage — grapes that have been caressed day-in and day-out by the pristine mountain breezes that flow through Ferrari’s vineyards in the northeast of Italy. Lucky grapes.


Founded in 1902 by Giulio Ferrari, Ferrari is the most awarded and renowned producer of one of Italy’s finest wines: Trentodoc. Inspired by Champagne, Ferrari was determined to show the world that Italy could produce elegant sparkling wines with character and complexity. Recognizing that the soil and climate of Trentino provided the ideal conditions for his venture, Ferrari is credited for Italy's first significant plantings of Chardonnay. The name Trentodoc cleverly combines Trento, the wine’s city of origin, with DOC, (Denominazione di Origine Controllata), an official designation used to classify Italian wines. Produced in the same labor-intensive manner as Champagne, Ferrari and all Trentodoc wines are crafted using the Metodo Classico and its bubbles are created by a second fermentation in the bottle.

In 1952, Giulio Ferrari, who had no children, selected Bruno Lunelli, the owner of a wine shop in Trento, as his successor. Today, the third generation of the Lunelli family, Marcello, Camilla, Matteo, and Alessandro, are keeping the legacy alive and enchanting wine lovers around the world with their excellent wines and sparkling attitude. 

As an unabashed lover of sparkling wines, I’ve been a fan of Ferrari Trentodoc since I was introduced to their wines several years ago. I quickly noticed that my enthusiasm for Ferrari’s elegant bubbles was shared by my Italian friends living in my hometown of NYC. Whenever I showed up with a bottle of Ferrari, there were audible oohs and aahs of appreciation and anticipation. For them, Ferrari isn’t just a taste of home but a testament to fine Italian craftsmanship and the sanctity of celebration. Toasting with Ferrari means the moment, big or small, matters.

Freshly harvested Ferrari Chardonnay grapes.

The method is the same, and even the grapes, primarily Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, but make no mistake, Trentodoc is no pale imitation of Champagne. These “sparkling wines from the mountains” stand on their own. As stated on the Trentodoc website, “Trentodoc is the expression of the land it comes from, Trentino. Trentodoc expresses its climate, high altitudes, and essence. From the highest Alpine peaks to the Mediterranean climes of the foothills where the temperatures are mitigated by the Ora del Garda winds, and the continental climate in the valley, every glass is unique and carries the character of its place of origin.”

Marcello Lunelli, Ferrari's chief winemaker, was animated and passionate during our vineyard stroll. 

It’s almost become a cliché but some variation of the phrase “great wine starts in the vineyards” has become a mantra for winemakers around the globe. But what does that really mean? Marcello Lunelli, Ferrari’s chief winemaker, emphasized that Ferrari’s wines don’t exist in isolation, they are an expression of the territory. “The fingerprint of a company like Ferrari is the territory. Without territory, you are nothing,” Marcello insisted.

Pinot Noir grapes at Ferrari awaiting the perfect moment for harvesting. 

Even with their impressive output of 5.5 million bottles per year, which represents 20% of Italy’s total production of Metodo Classico wines, Ferrari’s wines are never generic. To maintain a true taste of territory in every bottle; all of their grapes come from mountain vineyards. The warm days and cool nights of these higher altitude vineyards have a tangible impact on the grapes, imbuing them with an expressive range of flavors and aromas. Ferrari owns 100 hectares of certified organic vineyards and sustainability protocols are in place for their 600 grape growers.

Ferrari knows that fostering biodiversity in the vineyard is essential to growing healthy grapes. Bees are important partners in building a strong eco-system. 

Exported to more than 50 countries, Ferrari is not only the toast of Italy but beloved around the globe. And the experts have noticed. In 2019, The Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships recognized Ferrari as Sparkling Wine Producer of the Year. I concur that Ferrari’s wines hold their own against, and often outshine, other high-quality, traditional method sparkling wines.


During my visit to Ferrari, they confidently hosted a comparative tasting of their wines alongside some of the most celebrated traditional method wines from Italy and France. In my estimation, from non-vintage to top cuvée, single-varietal or blend, in each category Ferrari either dominated or tied but never faltered. Under the innovative and passionate leadership of the Lunelli family, Giulio Ferrari’s dream of producing world-class sparkling wines has been achieved. 

Are you ready to take your palate on a sparkling adventure with Ferrari? Here are a few of my favorite sips from their impressive portfolio.


Ferrari Brut Trentodoc ($27.99) was my dazzling introduction to Ferrari and never fails to impress me. Consistently crisp and clean, this 100% Chardonnay bubbly has the perfect balance between fresh flavors of citrus and apple with a hint of bready yeast.

A blend of Pinot Noir (60%) and Chardonnay (40%), Ferrari Brut Rosé Trentodoc ($35.99) is brazenly pretty with an elegant and streamlined structure. Like a ballerina, it twirls gracefully across the palate with flavors of fresh raspberry, strawberry, and a hint of crunchy red apple.


Ferrari Perlé 2013 Trentodoc ($42.99) is an excellent example of how beautifully an impeccably crafted Trentodoc can age. 100% Chardonnay, it is the more complex and nuanced companion to the Ferrari Brut. There’s a sultry smokiness to its citrus flavors. Hints of almond and warm bread crust are elegant traits found consistently throughout the Ferrari Trentodoc portfolio.

100% Chardonnay, Ferrari Riserva Lunelli 2009 Trentodoc ($64.99) spent an impressive minimum seven years aging on the lees. That extended yeast contact imbues it with a luxurious richness and complexity. Juicy and round with accents of toasty lemon meringue and a kiss of spice; this is a sexy and sophisticated sip. 

Last on my list but very far from least, Giulio Ferrari Riserva del Fondatore Trentodoc 2007 ($134.99) is one of my favorite wines that I tasted last year. 100% Chardonnay, it is a multi-dimensional sparkling wine with an expansive and elegant range of flavors and textures. Crisp, mineral, fruity, floral, and nutty with touches of honey and soft spice, it’s all in the glass. This is a wine to savor.

As a wine writer, and most importantly, a wine lover; I love trying new wines from every corner of the globe. But there’s an undeniable comfort and satisfaction in finding a producer that crafts wines that keep you coming back year after year. Consistently elegant, nuanced, festive, and drinkable, Ferrari Trentodoc adds an essential spark of joy and beauty to every occasion.


If you're planning a trip to Italy, Ferrari welcomes visitors for tours and tastings. And for an exceptional wine & dine experience, make a reservation at Ferrari's Michelin-starred restaurant, Locanda Margon.

The Oscars 2020: Sip Like the Stars with Champagne Piper-Heidsieck and The Family Coppola Wine Cellars

Ah, it’s that time of year when my dormant little girl daydreams of being a movie star bubble to the surface. Perhaps I’ll never get the chance to deliver my well-practiced Oscars® acceptance speech, but I can sip like a star of the silver screen thanks to Champagne Piper-Heidsieck and The Family Coppola Wine Cellars. On February 9^th, guests at the 92^nd Academy Awards will be toasting Hollywood’s biggest night with wonderful wines from these respected wineries and you can too.

Champagne Piper-Heidsieck is back for the 6^th year as the sole Champagne served during the Oscars® awards season. The snazzy retro look of this year’s limited-edition Oscars® magnum pays homage to the Roaring Twenties. Not only was the decade an exciting time for cinema but Prohibition, that atrocious affront to alcohol, started 100 years ago in 1920. Inspired by history, Piper-Heidsieck opted to adorn the bottle for the 92^nd Academy Awards with a replica of their label from the Prohibition era. “In the 1920s, bootleggers would smuggle Piper-Heidsieck into the United States where it would be secretly served in speakeasys throughout New York City. Now, Hollywood’s biggest stars will get to enjoy the same Piper-Heidsieck Brut during the biggest awards show of the year,” declared Benoit Collard, General Manager for Piper-Heidsieck. While the bottle with the Oscars® label isn’t for sale, the bubbly within is Piper-Heidsieck’s widely available and delicious Cuvée Brut (around $45). Look for Piper-Heidsieck’s iconic red label and create your own red carpet magic with this perennially elegant and exuberant bubbly.

All of Hollywood dreams of clutching a gold Oscars® statuette but only a lucky few are chosen. However, everyone can have that winning feeling with gleaming gold bottles of 92^nd Awards Chardonnay 2017 ($65) and 92^nd Awards Pinot Noir 2018 ($75) from The Family Coppola Wine Cellars. Representing the synergy between the worlds of cinema and wine, these limited-edition wines will be served at the 92^nd Oscars® and the official after party, the Governors Ball. Six-time Academy Award winner Francis Ford Coppola is also a celebrated vintner and his family’s winemaking tradition spans several generations. Limited supplies of Coppola’s 92^nd Oscars® bottles are available for purchase on the Coppola website. More than just eye- catching, these keepsake worthy bottles contain artfully crafted wines from Sonoma’s Russian River Valley. I recently tasted the Chardonnay and it is rich and creamy yet impressively crisp with a hint of tropical fruit. There’s all kinds of Oscars®-worthy delicious drama in this glass!

Sparkle Every Day: Seven Days of Bubbly!

The fireworks and confetti of New Year’s Eve may already seem like a distant memory but there’s an easy way to keep that ebullient feeling all year long – sparkling wine! Whether you opt to pop the cork on Champagne or Cava, Trentodoc or Crémant, make 2020 the year that you promote sparkling wines to a featured character, not just a guest star, in the drama of your life.  

My friends know that I love to pop open a bottle of bubbly whenever we get together, not just for special occasions. I enjoy taking my palate on a journey around the world by exploring different sparkling wines and I’m smitten by the ritual of bubbly. It takes a bit of time and attention to unwrap the foil, remove the cage, and pop the cork but sparkling wine rewards your diligence with effervescence that you can see, taste, and feel. It truly makes every moment, even nights with Netflix and takeout, a little more special. With this in mind, I present these seven sensational sparkling wines, one for each day of the week, for your consideration. Cheers!


Champagne Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve ($69)
Affectionately known as “Champagne Charlie”, Charles Heidsieck was the dapper and savvy French gentleman that was the catalyst for America’s love affair with Champagne. His legacy lives on in the beautiful wines that bear his name. I actually toasted 2020 with this lovely blend of equal parts Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Luscious, crisp, and creamy, a sip of this elegant bubbly will make you say ooh la la!



Champagne Bruno Paillard Première Cuvée ($50)
I always smile when I sip Bruno Paillard’s elegant Champagne. Delicate but not wimpy, this crisp and nuanced bubbly shows the magic that happens when smart choices are made at every step of the winemaking process; from the vineyards to disgorgement. A blend of Pinot Noir (45%), Chardonnay (33%) and Pinot Meunier (22%), it is crafted exclusively from the first pressing of the grapes so that the wine is built on a foundation of the purest juice.



Champagne Collet Brut Art Deco Premier Cru ($42)
I recently toasted a friend’s birthday with Champagne Collet Brut Art Deco Premier Cru and everyone gave it a rave review. An assemblage of 7 Grands Crus and 13 Premiers Crus, this blend of Chardonnay (40%), Pinot Noir (40%), and Pinot Meunier (20%) has impressive verve, minerality, and richness. Crisp with a decadent hint of cream and a smidgen of sexy smokiness. Trés chic!



Langlois-Chateau Crémant de Loire Brut ($24)
Champagne isn’t France’s only sparkling wine. In other French regions, traditional method wines are called Crémant. This lovely sip from the Loire Valley is a blend of Chenin Blanc (60%), Chardonnay (20%), and Cabernet Franc (20%) is juicy, round, and crisp with impressive oomph and texture.

Ferrari Brut Trentodoc ($28)
Take your love of bubbly to new heights with Trentodoc. Known as “Sparkling Wine from the Mountains”, the name Trentodoc combines the place of origin (Trento) with the Italian wine classification DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata). I recently visited the region’s most acclaimed producer, Ferrari, and can attest to the wonderful influence that the mountainous terroir has on the wines. The fresh air, warm days, and cool nights provide an optimal environment for the grapes to achieve balance. You can taste it. Made in the traditional method, Ferrari Brut is a fresh, crisp and elegant expression of 100% Chardonnay. Approachable but not one-dimensional, its vibrant fruit flavors are balanced by a hint of crusty fresh-baked bread.



Gloria Ferrer Blanc de Blancs ($22)
100% Chardonnay and absolutely fabulous, this traditional method wine from Sonoma is crafted in the same precise and labor-intensive manner as Champagne. Frisky and crisp with lovely flavors of green apple, citrus, biscuity brioche, and a hint of vanilla; it delivers plenty of personality at a great price.



Juvé & Camps Reserva de la Familia 2015 ($17)
I fell in love with Cava during my time as a student in Spain and me gusta mucho Juvé & Camps! Made in the traditional method, it is an elegant expression of the indigenous grape varieties Xarel-lo (55%), Macabeo (35%), and Parellada (10%). I actually sipped this bottle on Christmas Eve with my family and this charming Cava’s fresh fruit flavors, crispness, and toasty notes won over a very tough crowd, even mom liked it!

Hope in the Ashes: A Devastating Fire Won't Stop Lismore Estate Vineyards from Making Great Wine in South Africa

Every wine has a story to tell and sometimes the truth behind the bottle will break your heart. Several weeks ago, I tasted 2017 Lismore Estate Reserve Chardonnay, Western Cape, South Africa ($40) and I haven’t stopped thinking about this exceptional wine and the intriguing woman who made it, Samantha O’Keefe. In a world where “anything but Chardonnay” has become a misguided mantra for many drinkers, Samantha has crafted an exuberant, balanced, and regal wine that will wow even the most jaded drinker. I loved the wine so much, I even sent a photo of the bottle to my boyfriend, a very talented and discerning sommelier, and told him that he must try it.

I recently learned that Samantha’s home and winery were reduced to ashes in a fire and my heart broke for her and her family. Although, we only chatted for a few minutes, Samantha made a lasting impression. Not only is she a talented winemaker, she has chutzpah. Many people dream about moving to a faraway land to make wine but Samantha, a Californian, actually did it. Her website states that in South Africa, Samantha found “paradise and the perfect terroir.”

The fire may have damaged paradise but not Samantha’s passion and tenacity. Via Facebook she shared a message that further increased my admiration: “We have experienced a tragedy like nothing we could have ever imagined. Thank you for the outpouring of love and support from the South African wine industry and everyone around the globe. Our hearts are broken, our home and my precious cellar is reduced to ashes but it seems some of our vines are as tough as we are and may survive it all. All of our bottled stock was stored off-site in Stellenbosch. I can assure everyone that Lismore wines remain available to the market. With the generous offers of cellar space, I will produce a 2020 vintage and will rebuild.”


So, if you see a bottle of Lismore at your local wine retailer or on a wine list, please show your support. And, I must thank Anthony Mueller, sommelier and Robert Parker Wine Advocate reviewer, for introducing me to Lismore and Samantha at their recent Wine Discoveries event in New York City. Not only did Anthony award the 2017 Lismore Estate Reserve Chardonnay 94 points, he selected to highlight it as his discovery of the year. Trust me, that’s a big deal.


I’ll defer to Anthony’s spot-on tasting notes: “On the nose, the 2017 Estate Reserve Chardonnay has elegant, luscious red apples, lemon, and pear tart and seductive floral notes of cherry blossom. It has excellent mouthfeel with perfect mid-palate weight and balance and elegant Chardonnay expression.”

I love the balanced richness of this Chardonnay. Elegant and joyous, its tapestry of flavors make a bold impact without being overbearing. Try it. It’s marvelous. And you’ll be doing your part to help Samantha write the next chapter of her winemaking story.

Wine Wisdom: Tough Vintages Don’t Scare St. Francis Winemaker Katie Madigan

“It’s not about having an amazing vintage but making amazing wine despite the vintage.”
Katie Madigan 

Watching winemaker Katie Madigan swirl her gleaming glass of 2017 St. Francis Chardonnay in a dark Manhattan steakhouse, it's hard to imagine the obstacles that were overcome to produce that joyous glass of wine.


Even before the fires that swept through Sonoma in 2017, Katie recalls that it was shaping up to be an extremely difficult harvest because of heat spikes late in the season that revved up ripening. Although, all of the Chardonnay grapes were picked prior to the fires, St. Francis did lose power. Sneaking into the winery, Katie and her team discovered that the grapes had started fermenting because of the loss of temperature control in the tanks. “I feel like this wine kind of made itself,” laughed Katie. 

Not easily discouraged by circumstances beyond her control, Katie said, “I respect difficult vintages. They teach you a lot. They teach you what you can handle.” Katie's career has made it clear that she doesn't shy away from a challenge. She joined St. Francis in 2002 as an intern and became a winemaker in 2011. She inherited her love of Chardonnay from her mom, who likes to sip it while she's cooking!

Katie believes that Chardonnay should be fresh and the 2017 meets that ideal. With crisp citrus and apple flavors with a touch of butterscotch and cream, it has great brightness and minerality. She was so impressed by the quality of the 2017 Chardonnay, Katie is figuring out ways to mimic the conditions that nurtured its creation – minus the fires, of course. Very food-friendly, this Chardonnay pairs beautifully with sea food and poultry. A great buy at around $17! 


St. Francis is also known for their portfolio of red wines. I’m particularly fond of their Zinfandel, which accounts for 1/3 of their production. The Zins may not have the dramatic backstory of the 2017 Chardonnay but these powerful reds certainly tell a story. 

St. Francis Old Vines Zinfandel 2016, Sonoma County ($22)
Crafted from vines at least 50 years old, and many as old as 100, Katie said this wine is meant to allure you with the aromas and not too much oak. Big and juicy, it has luscious flavors of ripe black cherries with a kiss of spice. Pair with burgers, pizza, and BBQ.

St. Francis Reserve Zinfandel 2016, Dry Creek Valley ($45)
Bigger and more robust, Katie said this Zinfandel was meant to be more over the top. A bit of Petite Sirah was added to contribute color and texture. Powerful but balanced, it is meaty and rich with flavors of blackberries, raspberry, and perky pops of peppercorn. A great steakhouse wine! 

If you're planning a trip to Sonoma, St. Francis welcomes visitors for a variety of wine tasting experiences. 

Sip This: Catena Alta Historic Rows Chardonnay 2016

Rivaling misinformed Merlot bashers as some of the most annoying wine drinkers is the “anything but Chardonnay” crowd. In my events planning career, I once had to politely school a client who didn’t want to serve Chardonnay at her far-from-fancy cocktail reception because she said it wasn’t classy. Really? I think our friends in Burgundy would beg to differ. 

One of Chardonnay’s many charms is that it grows beautifully in wine regions around the globe. That has also been its downfall. Sadly, the market is flooded with many inferior wines that have sullied Chardonnay’s reputation. But when Chardonnay is produced with passion and integrity, few white wines can rival its capacity to transmit texture and terroir. And let's not forget Chardonnay's tremendous aging potential.  

I personally enjoy white wines all year-round, but I do find that I reach for richer and fuller-bodied white wines in the winter season, and many of those wines are Chardonnay. Like a luxurious cashmere sweater, these wines wrap themselves around you and warm your spirit. 

Catena Alta Historic Rows Chardonnay 2016 ($33) lingered in my memory long after the bottle was emptied. I sipped it at home in Manhattan but this impressive Chardonnay instantly transported me back to my 2015 visit to Mendoza, which included an unforgettable tasting and tour at Catena Zapata. Founded in 1902, Catena Zapata is truly one of Argentina’s winemaking pioneers. Knowing that great wine starts in the vineyard, this family-owned winery has devoted tremendous resources to analyzing their soils so that the grapes are cultivated in a manner that achieves optimum quality. Malbec may be Argentina’s signature grape but don’t ignore the wonderful Chardonnay being produced in this South American winemaking powerhouse. 

Adrianna Vineyard
(image courtesy of Catena Zapata)

The Chardonnay grapes for Catena Alta Historic Rows Chardonnay were sourced from select rows in two of their historic Andean vineyards: Adrianna and Domingo. According to the winery, “At almost 5,000 feet elevation in the Andean foothills, the Adrianna vineyard's calcareous soils and cool climate are the promised land of Chardonnay. The fruit from the Adrianna vineyard has a purity of flavors and a minerality that is particular to this vineyard and cannot be found anywhere else in Mendoza. The nearby, gravel-covered Domingo Vineyard makes up 20% of the blend.”

Catena Alta is a bold Chardonnay but impeccable balance keeps it from veering off the cliff towards the land of flabby and overwrought wines. With a snappy minerality, ripe fruit, lively acidity, and long finish, this is a Chardonnay that elegantly stands out from the crowd.

Meet the Winemaker: Francisco Baettig of Viña Errázuriz in Chile

Several months have passed since my meeting with winemaker Francisco Baettig but our tasting is far from a distant memory; the wines and the man made quite an impression. Chief Winemaker at Viña Errázuriz since 2003, Francisco has earned many impressive accolades; including Winemaker of the Year and a perfect 100-point score for Viñedo Chadwick 2014. Francisco has certainly earned the right to be a bit boastful but he's endearingly humble and would rather discuss the finer points of vineyard management, soil types, and barrels. Francisco's laser-sharp focus on making high quality wine can be tasted in the bottle. 

Francisco has played an integral role in elevating the quality and reputation of Chilean wines and he wants the world "to see Chile not only as entry level wines but more interesting and terroir driven." From fresh to complex, Francisco crafts a diverse array of wines for Errázuriz but balance and a sense of place are common threads. If you're looking to sip some sensational Chilean wines; consider my three picks from Errázuriz.


Errazuriz Max Chardonnay Reserva 2017 ($20) is all about freshness and crisp fruit. 100% Chardonnay, juicy fruit is accented by hints of spice - the result of 10 months of barrel aging in French oak. Charming and a bit creamy with flavors of crisp golden apple and a tangy tinge of lemon custard. 

Simplicity is the beauty of Errazuriz Aconcagua Costa Pinot Noir 2017 ($20). Fresh cherry and strawberry flavors really shine in this juicy red. Hints of earth and tea leaves add depth and dimension. A real charmer! (I tasted the 2017 but the 2018 vintage is now available.)

Errazuriz Don Maximiano Founder's Reserve 2016 ($115) isn't just a fine Chilean wine, it's an impressive wine, period. A blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere, Malbec, and Petit Verdot; the first vintage of Don Maximiano was introduced with the 1983 vintage and was one of the first "Super-Chileans." The estate's flagship wine, the 2016 vintage of Don Maximiano was aged 22 months in French oak. Francisco said, "the style of the house is not too much oak" and it's true -- the use of oak is very judicious and doesn't overwhelm the wine. This elegant red is fresh and vibrant with impeccable structure and intense flavors of red cherry, pomegranate, violet, blackberry, and blueberry. Delicious now, this wine has what it takes to age beautifully. 

Don Maximiano Icon Winery
image courtesy of Viña Errázuriz

If you're planning a visit to Chile, Errázuriz welcomes visitors for tours and tastings at their estate in Aconcagua. 

Make Every Moment Exceptional with Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Champagne

"Science and sensitivity, great wine is always a balance between the two. Technology is not against tradition." - Benoît Gouez, Cellar Master, Moët & Chandon

Someone recently asked me what I enjoy most about wine writing. Aside from the obvious delights of drinking wonderful wines and traveling to vineyards near and far, the greatest joy continues to be the people that wine brings into my life. Some of my richest new friendships have been formed over a shared passion for wine. Wine has a way of breaking down barriers and slowing down time that fosters a connection. Share a bottle of wine with someone and you tend to discover more similarities than differences and an appreciation for the beauty in our differences. For the past three years I've had the pleasure of tasting the new vintages of Moët & Chandon Champagne with their cellar master Benoît Gouez and it has become one of my most anticipated appointments each year. 

The first year that we met, I confess to being a bit awe struck. Truthfully, I wondered if the invitation to meet with Benoît had been sent to me by mistake. Founded in 1743, Moët & Chandon is one of the most iconic champagne houses in the world. During my first meeting with Benoît, his down-to-earth demeanor and welcoming personality instantly put me at ease. Once that ice was broken, Benoît beautifully dispelled any notion that Moët & Chandon's size and status somehow rendered them not concerned with artistry, quality, tradition, and innovation. Benoît is passionate and precise about winemaking and committed to making sure that each bottle of bubbly lives up to Moët & Chandon's rigorous standards and rich legacy.  

During our most recent meeting in New York City, Benoît generously shared his time and Moët & Chandon's 2012 Grand Vintage releases. Only released in exceptional vintages, the Grand Vintage wines showcase not only the unique qualities of that year but Benoit's interpretation of the vintage. "The wines made from black grapes, especially the fragile Meunier, were particularly good in 2012, which explains why they make up an important part of the assemblage. This Grand Vintage is a softly fresh and harmonious wine that reveals itself slowly but with supple assurance, like the gentle transition of spring into summer, and envelops the palate, blossoming into a crisp yet balanced bouquet."

Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage 2012 Extra Brut Champagne ($75) is the House's 74th declared vintage. A blend of Chardonnay (41%), Pinot Noir (33%) and Meunier (26%), this majestic bubbly is rich and complex but also has a gentle coyness that is quite seductive. Supple with fine bubbles, crisp apple and pear flavors are lifted by hints of ginger and lychee, with a hint of butterscotch and citrus. The decadently long finish leaves a lasting impression on the palate. Exuberant and impeccable, this is a transcendent champagne. 

Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Rosé Extra Brut 2012 ($85) is the House's 43rd rosé vintage and evokes the transition from spring to summer. A blend of Pinot Noir (42% of its assemblage of which 13% is red wine), Chardonnay (35%), and Meunier (23%); this is an exceptionally elegant and expressive rosé champagne. There's an unabashed fleshiness in this bubbly's red fruit flavors but hints of citrus and stone fruit add verve. Sexy and sophisticated! 


The Moët & Chandon 2012 Grand Vintage champagnes are superb examples of Benoît's artistic nature. I recently shared both of these wines with my very picky friends and everyone was impressed by their beauty. Wow was uttered more than once. If you're looking for wines that will make even a casual meal with friends feel like a gala occasion, pop open a bottle of Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Champagne! 

 

Wine With a Mission: emBRAZEN Celebrates Bold Women, Past & Present

 

“It’s exciting to share these women’s compelling stories through emBRAZEN wines. I hope these wines spark conversation among friends, family, co-workers or even in the wine aisle. I’m proud to have crafted these wines, providing a bold and delicious canvas for their voices to be heard.” - Olivia Teutschel, emBRAZEN winemaker

I'll admit to being a bit skeptical when I first heard about emBRAZEN Wines. I actively avoid any wines that seem gimmicky or blatant in their pandering to women. But something about emBRAZEN caught my eye: the beautiful visage of one of my all-time favorite women in history adorns one of the bottles, the inimitable Josephine Baker. Wanting to make sure that the wine within the bottle was worthy of such an iconic figure, I decided to give emBRAZEN a chance. I'm so glad I did. 

emBRAZEN Red Blend honors Josephine Baker - entertainer, Civil Rights activist, and spy for the French Resistance. The bottle bears Ms. Baker's image and her quote, "To realize our dreams, we must decide to wake up."

Crafted by winemaker Olivia Teutschel, emBRAZEN defines itself as "more than just a wine brand. It’s a call to arms, encouraging women to reclaim their narratives and rewrite history." In addition to the Red Blend that pays tribute to Josephine Baker, the emBRAZEN trio of California wines includes a Cabernet Sauvignon in honor of journalist & explorer Nellie Bly and a Chardonnay inspired by the Queen of Salsa, singer Celiz Cruz.

"Energy rightly applied and directed will accomplish anything." - Nellie Bly

Fruit-forward and vibrant, emBrazen wines are delicious and enlightening. The back label of each bottle has a short bio of its muse and if you download their Living Wine Labels app, the labels come to life and tell their story. The wines are attractively priced at $15 each. 


"When opportunity presents itself, grab it. Hold on tight and don’t let go.” - Celia Cruz

 Committed to inspiring modern women to share their stories, emBRAZEN will award $25,000 to a woman who is shattering expectations and driving change in her community. “Women are paving their own paths and taking control of their futures by speaking boldly to ignite progress and change the world. Through our Take Up The Torch program, emBRAZEN recognizes local unsung heroes who deserve support to achieve their community enhancing goals," says Patricia Montagno, Vice President of Marketing for Treasury Wine Estates, the parent company of emBRAZEN. Nominations will be accepted until December 2, 2018 and the winner will be announced on International Women's Day (March 8, 2019). Click here to nominate women who Take Up The Torch! 

 I'm truly impressed by emBRAZEN's mission to honor trailblazing women of the past and to support women defying convention today. Yes, wine is about pleasure but emBRAZEN is a beautiful and innovative example of how wine can also be a conduit to knowledge and empowerment. The accessible price of emBRAZEN wines will allow the powerful stories of Josephine Baker, Nellie Bly, and Celia Cruz to reach a large audience of wine lovers who can find inspiration in the fearlessness of these incredible women. Their stories should never be forgotten. I'll drink to that! 

Chic & Charming Chardonnay: Cave de Lugny White Burgundy

"I'm a winemaker but also a consumer. Burgundy is the best place for Chardonnay."- Grégoire Pissot, Winemaker, Cave de Lugny

Cave de Lugny winemaker Grégoire Pissot is on a mission to remind us of White Burgundy's many charms. Armed with his affable personality and expressive wines, Grégoire is winning over drinkers one bottle at a time. While Chardonnay may not be the hot new grape in town, Cave de Lugny's wines are a delicious reminder that classic doesn't mean boring or expensive. Well-crafted and affordably priced, Cave de Lugny delivers French ooh la la without breaking the bank.


image courtesy of Cave de Lugny

Founded in 1926, Cave de Lugny is a cooperative of family-owned wine-growing estates in the Mâconnais region in southern Burgundy. The #1 white Burgundy producer in the world, 90% of Cave de Lugny's production is Chardonnay; which they craft in the traditional Burgundy style -- unoaked and on the lees so that the wines are vibrant and complex. They also adhere to strict growing standards and eco-friendly practices. I recently had the pleasure of tasting two Cave de Lugny wines with Grégoire and agree with his assessment that their Chardonnay from the Mâconnais is "easy and very drinkable." But the wines still have tremendous personality and energy.


Cave de Lugny "La Côte Blanche" Chardonnay, Mâcon-Villages 2016 ($13)
Refreshing and luscious with crisp minerality, La Côte Blanche is a delightful introduction to the Cave de Lugny style. Lively flavors of lemon curd and citrus fruits are balanced out by a long dry finish. 


Cave de Lugny "Les Charmes" Chardonnay, Mâcon-Lugny 2016 ($16)
Grégoire describes Les Charmes as "the wine that best expresses Mâcon." Chardonnay grapes for this impressive wine are sourced from a single vineyard, with some vines as old as 35-40 years. Richly textured and with elegantly restrained citrus flavors that are balanced out by hints of spice and honey, Les Charmes offers plenty of finesse and nuance at a great price. 

If you're planning a trip to Burgundy, Cave de Lugny offers wine tourism opportunities. Until then, get to know Cave de Lugny Chardonnay with a bottle of La Côte Blanche or Les Charmes. Cheers! 

Australian Winemaker Neil McGuigan Is The Man With The Plan

"My Dad lived to be 100 because he had a bottle of our wine everyday!"
Neil McGuigan, Chief Winemaker & CEO, McGuigan Wines

A natural born storyteller, winemaker Neil McGuigan is no wallflower. His killer comedic timing, hearty laugh, and generous pours are welcome reminders that wine is meant to be shared and enjoyed. But you'd be foolish to consider his jolly-good-fellow nature an indicator of frivolity; as chief winemaker and CEO of McGuigan Wines, Neil is very serious about crafting quality wines that over-deliver at every price point. And he has the accolades to prove it - McGuigan Wines has been recognized a record four times as International Winemaker of the Year at the International Wine & Spirits Competition. They have also been honored as Australian Winemaker of the Year on three occasions. 



Founded in 1880 and based in Hunter Valley, for four generations the McGuigan family has been synonymous with Australian winemaking. Until now, they've had very little presence in the USA but that is poised to change thanks to their new partnership with the respected powerhouse importers, Palm Bay. McGuigan is smartly entering the market with two tiers of wines -- a fruit-forward, fresh and approachable collection deemed The Plan and their more complex wines, Hand Made and The Philosophy. Whether you're just grilling in the backyard or serving a gourmet feast, there's a McGuigan wine for for every palate and budget.  


The Plan Chardonnay 2016 ($11.99)
The Plan pays homage to the McGuigan's family mission to share high-quality Australian wine with the world and to become internationally recognized as a winery of distinction. I have a friend who always jokes that the world doesn't need another Chardonnay, but I'd say there's room for this charming expression from South Eastern Australia. Just a little bit of oak adds a touch of warm vanilla spice to this juicy, fruit-forward, and slightly creamy wine. 


The Plan Shiraz 2016 ($11.99)
Have you been a little Shiraz-shy since over-the-top, sugary, jammy, high-alcohol wines with critters on the bottle saturated the US market not so long ago? That unfortunate trend certainly sullied the reputation of Australian Shiraz but things are starting to shift. McGuigan's The Plan Shiraz proves that an entry-level affordable Shiraz can still have integrity and balance. The grapes were sourced from their vineyards in South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales. Fresh and not cloyingly jammy, The Plan is a straight-forward and enjoyable expression of the natural charms of Shiraz. Round, rich, and fruity with luscious blackberry and plum flavors, vibrant acidity, and a sassy kick of spice.

Hand Made Shiraz 2014 ($40)
Ready to step it up to an artisan next-level Shiraz? McGuigan Hand Made is a limited-edition Shiraz sourced from low-yielding vineyards in South Australia's Fleurieu Peninsula, just outside Langhorne Creek. Warm days are tempered by evening breezes that enable the grapes to reach optimum ripeness yet still retain good acidity. Voluptuous and velvety, Hand Made spent 18 months in oak before bottling and exhibits impressive grace and balance. The tasting notes describe it as "a rich full-bodied wine with a wonderful mix of dark cherries plum and spice - reminiscent of Christmas cake."



The Philosophy 2013 ($125)
A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (56%) sourced from the Seven Hills area of Clare Valley and Shiraz (44%) from Auburn in Clare Valley's southern edge, The Philosophy expresses McGuigan's belief that "as a winemaker, you need vision, strength, precision, and drive to craft exceptional wine." Aged 24 months in French oak and aged 2 more years in the bottle before release, The Philosophy is full-bodied and robust with tremendous finesse and nuance. Rich and plummy black fruit flavors meld beautifully with hints of spice and shrubby herbs. Absolutely delicious now, The Philosophy will age gracefully thanks to its pristine structure. 

If you're planning a visit to Australia, McGuigan's welcomes visitors for tours and tastings at their Cellar Door in the heart of Hunter Valley. 

Organic from Day One: Bonterra Makes Wines That Respect Mother Nature

"Just like people want to know where their food comes from, they want to know what's in their wine." - Jeff Cichocki, Lead Winemaker, Bonterra Organic Vineyards

Organic is pretty mainstream now, but it really wasn't so long ago that fans of organic foods were all considered hippy-dippy, tree hugging, health freaks. How times have changed! From food to fabrics to cleaning products, pretty much everyone embraces organics in some aspect of their lives. Wine is no exception and all over the globe winemakers are converting to organic farming practices. Better late than never for those winemakers but Bonterra Organic Vineyards doesn't have to jump on the bandwagon, they've been leading the way and their Mendocino County vineyards (north of Sonoma and Napa Valley, California) have been organic since they were founded in 1987. All of their wines are made from 100% organically farmed grapes. 

Jeff Cichocki, Bonterra's lead winemaker, has been with the winery for more than ten years and jokes that "other winemakers think that I'm a glutton for punishment" but he truly believes that keeping chemicals out of the vineyard makes better wine. After all, no wine lover has ever tasted a glass of wine and lamented about the lack of chemicals  -- we want to taste the wine and Bonterra asserts that "organic grapes produce the purest expressions of the varietals and land on which they are farmed."


image courtesy of Bonterra

Winemaking begins in the vineyard and organic practices certainly start the grapes off on the right track. But organic doesn't guarantee that the wine will be good. The winemaker still has to apply their intuition and skill to make crucial decisions on when to harvest and how to transform the hard-earned fruits of their labor into wine. I don't drink organic wine all the time but I was introduced to Bonterra a few years ago and the wines have impressed me with their freshness, expressiveness, and balance. Organic farming is an added bonus that I really appreciate when it comes to wine: it is better for the land and the vineyard workers, and I certainly want to reduce the amount of chemicals I consume. Added bonus -- Bonterra's well-made & earth-friendly wines don't break the budget. 



Have you been a part of the anything-but-Chardonnay camp? Bonterra Chardonnay 2017($14) may make you reconsider! Made from organic grapes and easy on the budget, this vibrant wine tastes fresh and alive. Zesty citrus flavors are rounded out by a hint of creaminess and crisp minerality. A great everyday wine! 



Stop hating on Merlot because of THAT movie! Just because Merlot is pretty doesn't mean it isn't interesting. Bonterra Merlot 2015 ($16) is a delicious reminder of Merlot's charms. Luscious and plummy, this juicy red gets extra complexity and hints of spice from small amounts of Petite Sirah and Malbec. 

Beyond their organic farming, Bonterra also has three ranches that are certified biodynamic. Their simple definition of biodynamic is "a holistic view of agriculture with high awareness of the interconnectivity between earth, plants, animals, humans, the moon and planets." For example, preparations made from herbs, minerals, and manures are applied to the soils at specific times to enhance their fertility. The Roost "Blue Heron Vineyard" Chardonnay 2015 ($40) is a superb single-vineyard wine that eloquently expresses the terroir of this special land nestled between the shore of the upper Russian River and a blue heron nesting site and preserve.  A voluptuous and elegant Chardonnay, The Roost glimmers in the glass and captivates the palate with rich flavors of lemon curd, butterscotch, pear, and kisses of spice. 

The Butler 2013 ($50) is another standout from Bonterra's biodynamic, single-vineyard selections. A blend of mostly Syrah with Mourvedre, Grenache, and Zinfandel, this bold wine is intriguingly intense. Exquisitely structured but not aloof. The Butler serves up rich dark fruit with sexy hints of spice and licorice. 

Are you ready to explore wines made with organic grapes? Bonterra is a great starting point. Visit their website to learn more about Bonterra's full portfolio of wines; they have an impressive selection of varietals. Cheers! 

Burgundy Bliss: 2016 Is a Beautiful Vintage for Bouchard Pére & Fils

Like a birthday, a vintage commemorates the year grapes were harvested and transformed into wine. Some vintages present challenges, often caused by weather, that make the winemaker's job more difficult and impede the wine's ability to achieve its best and truest expression. (Who among us hasn't had a bad year and prayed for the next to be better?) But when Mother Nature cooperates and provides the ideal conditions, what a glorious thing for a winemaker! 2016 was such a year for Bouchard Pére & Fils cellar master Frédéric Weber. 

Frédéric Weber, Cellar Master, Bouchard Pére & Fils

"2016 is a very beautiful vintage, allowing to fully express each terroir, with very good concentration (thanks to lower yields) and excellent acidity," says Frédéric. "In terms of quality we are pretty confident, the reds show a great definition of red fruits, they are expressive on the nose, and on the palate they are round and elegant." Regarding the white wines, he says "The 2016 whites are promising with great freshness, citrus flavors, they are generous on the palate due to maturity but with chiseled finish."


I recently had the pleasure of tasting through the 2016 vintage with Frédéric and share his enthusiasm. The wines impressed me with their elegance, expressiveness, and consistency. Not surprising -- founded in 1731, Bouchard Pére & Fils is one of the oldest wine merchant houses in Burgundy and one of the largest landowners in the prestigious Côte d'Or. Their acclaimed parcels total 321acres with 30 classified as Grand Crus and 183 as Premiers Crus. Committed to preserving the integrity of their land, Bouchard Pére & Fils has been devoted to organic and sustainable practices since 2000. 

image courtesy of Bouchard Pére & Fils

Recently, I wrote about Burgundy's intimidation factor -- one could spend a lifetime trying to unravel the complexities of this prestigious and celebrated wine region. (I even made a case for using the proper French name, Bourgogne, instead of the anglicized Burgundy, but's that's certainly not a hard and fast rule.) But becoming a total wine geek isn't a requirement to enjoy Burgundy. Let the wines take you on a journey to these legendary French vineyards and experience for yourself why Burgundy is universally lauded for its exceptional ability to transmit the essence of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and terroir. The diverse portfolio and consistent quality of Bouchard Pére & Fils make them a great gateway to exploring the wines of Burgundy.  

One grape with endless expressions, Pinot Noir is the grand diva of red Burgundy. Bouchard Pére & Fils has an extensive portfolio that showcases the various styles and nuances of Pinot Noir. Here are a few of my favorites.  


Bouchard Pére & Fils, Nuits-Saint-Georges, Village Côte de Nuits 2016 ($65) shimmys across the palate with elegant oomph. A kiss of spice and long finish enhance its energy and grace. Hailing from Burgundy's most southernly appellation, its solid structure and tannins provide the foundation for aging but it is very enjoyable now. 


Bouchard Pére & Fils, Gevrey-Chambertin, Village Côte de Nuits 2016 ($65) is from the heart of the Côte de Nuits - the area with the highest concentration of Grand Crus reds. Hearty and velvety with hints of fresh cherry, roses, and an engaging earthiness. 


The rich and pleasingly plummy flavors of Bouchard Pére & Fils, Pommard, Premier Cru, Côte de Beaune 2016 ($90) show the influence of its chalky & iron-rich soils. 



Bouchard Pére & Fils, Beaune Gréves Vigne de l'Enfant Jésus, Premier Cru, Côte de Beaune 2016 ($130) has quite an intriguing backstory. The name translates to "Vine of the Baby Jesus" and pays homage to an old story that a Carmelite nun predicted the birth of Louis XIV, in spite of his mother's sterility. Upon the birth of the future king, this special vineyard, measuring 9.68 acres in the heart of the Beaune Grèves appellation, was given to the Carmelites as an expression of gratitude. Bouchard Pére & Fils has had exclusive rights to this vineyard since 1791. Intense but delicate, this wine shows a beautiful interplay between fruit, spice, and earthy flavors. 

Bouchard Pére & Fils, Le Corton, Grand Cru, Côte de Beaune 2016 ($150) hails from the historic Le Corton vineyard that gave the Corton appellation its name. The only Grand Cru (the very top of the Burgundy classification system) on the Côte de Beaune, this wine dazzles with it suppleness, strength, and regal structure. 

 The whites of Burgundy are ruled by Chardonnay. Yes, Chardonnay may be ubiquitous but it is Burgundy that set the standard for still & dry Chardonnay wines. The Bouchard Pére & Fils roster of Chardonnay shows the grape's capacity to convey a range of expressions. 



Luscious with zippy acidity, Bouchard Pére & Fils, Meursault Les Clous, Village Côte de Beaune 2016 ($65) delivers plenty of wow at a great price for such a beautifully crafted wine. 

The Chardonnay grapes for Bouchard Pére & Fils, Beaune Clos Saint-Landry, Premier Cru, Côte de Beaune 2016 ($75) come from a small vineyard with the oldest traces of the Chardonnay variety in Beaune. There's something quite spicy and sexy about this special wine. 



If you've ever wondered what makes Grand Cru White Burgundy so special, Bouchard Pére & Fils, Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Côte de Beaune 2016 ($210) beautifully answers the question. Indulgent, elegant, robust, and vivacious - absolute ooh la la! 

To learn more about the wines of Bouchard Pére and Fils, visit their website. 

Love, Land, Legacy: The Knudsen Family's Wine Roots Run Deep in Oregon

The beautiful landscape of Knudsen Vineyards even inspired Oregon's "Wine Country" license plate! 

Oregon wines are all the rage now but that wasn't the case in 1971 when C. Calvert "Cal" and Julia Lee Knudsen purchased a 200-acre former walnut orchard in the heart of the Dundee Hills. True trailblazers, the Knudsens planted 30 acres of vines in 1972 and it became the largest vineyard in the Willamette Valley. In 1976, Knudsen partnered with legendary winemaker Dick Erath and built the first commercial winery in the Dundee Hills. For more than a decade, Knudsen Erath Winery produced wines until the dissolution of the partnership in 1987. However, that did not mark the end of Knudsen's role in winemaking and the family invested in Argyle Winery, where they maintain a grape supply and vineyard management relationship. 

Vintage bottle of Knudsen Erath Pinot Noir from 1983 - a delicious collector's item! 

Now the second generation of the family is moving their winemaking legacy forward and the four Knudsen siblings have formed Knudsen Vineyards. Showing how the wine industry has dramatically grown in Oregon, Knudsen's 130 planted acres of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay now make them one of the smaller wineries in the state. However, few can compete with the Knudsen family's important role in Oregon's viticultural history and the historical significance of their Willamette Valley vineyard. 

"It is an honor for my brothers and me to carry on our parents' vision for Oregon winemaking." - Page Knudsen Cowles, Managing Partner

Page Knudsen Cowles beams when she speaks of her admiration and appreciation for what her parents created almost 50 years ago.  She and her three brothers (Colin, David, and Cal) have a strong connection to their land. To ensure that it remains healthy for the following generations, Knudsen Vineyards is certified sustainable. 

But what did Cal Knudsen see in Willamette Valley all those years ago that inspired him to take a leap of faith? Passionate about the iconic wines of Burgundy and Champagne, Cal was convinced that Willamette's similar climate, topography, and sedimentary soils could also produce wines of exceptional quality. He certainly has been proven right. Wines from Oregon, especially Willamette, are critically acclaimed for their elegance and terroir-driven style. How poetic that Cal Knudsen was inspired by France and today several prominent French winemakers are producing wines in Willamette Valley!

Current offerings from Knudsen Vineyards focus on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The wines certainly have an Old World quality where the essence of the fruit and terroir are clearly expressed, instead of heavy-handed winemaking. 


Juicy and zingy Knudsen Vineyards Chardonnay 2015 ($45) is rich and robust but still demonstrates impressive restraint and balance. Ten months in French oak add a warm hint of vanilla and spice to its vibrant citrus, pear, and crisp green apple flavors. Ever-so-slightly creamy, with a long finish, this Chardonnay is charming now and has enough structure to keep aging gracefully. (2016 vintage is also available). 

Finicky Pinot Noir is known as the "heartbreak grape"but winemakers can't resist the challenge. Perhaps more than any other red wine grape, Pinot Noir has the uncanny ability to transmit the ineffable qualities of terroir. Knudsen Vineyards Pinot Noir 2015 ($55) meticulously balances poise and playfulness. Clearly inspired by Burgundy in its direct communication of fruit and earth, there is also a charming thread of American exuberance in its hints of spice, juicy & ripe red cherries, and supple tannins. 

Knudsen's petite but precise portfolio stands up to their impressive legacy and I certainly look forward to following this new chapter of the family's winemaking journey. If your travels take you to Oregon, contact Knudsen to schedule a visit. 

The 90th Oscars: Hollywood's Biggest Night Is a Wine & Food Extravaganza!

 

“We are particularly proud to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the Oscars. This anniversary bottle represents the history of excellence that unites the Academy and Piper-Heidsieck. These magnums, bottled in Reims and enjoyed in Los Angeles, are the very expression of the universal magic of cinema, to which we are paying tribute.”
Benoît Collard, Executive Director for Piper-Heidsieck

Film buffs and fashionistas are in a frenzy as the 90th Oscars approach. Who will win? What will they wear? But there's another important question that must be answered on Hollywood's glitziest night - What will they drink? I can't predict the Best Picture winner but I can tell you that rivers of Piper-Heidsieck Champagne and the wines of Francis Ford Coppola will flow on March 4th at the Oscars and the official after-party, the Governors Ball. 



An astounding 1,500 bottles of Piper-Heidsieck Champagne will be served - that's more than 8,500 delicious glasses of bubbly. The stellar offerings from the Piper-Heidsieck portfolio will include the limited-edition magnum that was designed especially to commemorate the 90th Oscars and Hollywood's Golden Age. You can't buy the special Oscars magnum but the fabulous Champagne within is Piper-Heidsieck's widely available Cuvée Brut.  

 “The Academy Awards is a ceremony that honors daring, fearless, innovative storytelling, and in that tradition, we have developed two exquisite Director’s Cut wines that reflect innovative excellence.” - Corey Beck, CEO, Francis Ford Coppola Winery   

More than 14,000 glasses of Francis Ford Coppola wine will be poured at the Oscars. The 2,400 bottles will include his Director’s Cut Oscars 90th Edition Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 and Director’s Cut Oscars 90th Edition Chardonnay 2016.  A fourteen-time nominee and six-time Oscar winner (including the prestigious Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award), filmmaker and vintner Francis Ford Coppola has had a long relationship with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and these special wines are his tribute to the 90th anniversary of the Oscars.  

Piper-Heidsieck Rare 2002 Champagne paired with Chef Wolfgang Puck's Roasted Potato with Caviar. 

Of course, these fantastic wines deserve to be paired with an exceptional menu and legendary Chef Wolfgang Puck is leaving no truffle unturned. The 90th Oscars mark Puck's 24th year as the caterer of Hollywood's biggest night. The menu will include Chicken Pot Pie with Black Truffles, Osetra Caviar with Roasted New Potato, Wagyu Sliders, and Caviar Parfait with 24k Gold!  

A Sonoma Dream Come True: Westwood Estate Wines

  Winemaker Ben Cane and winery owner Carl Stanton of Westwood Estate Wines

Many of us think we come up with great ideas while drinking wine but Carl Stanton actually did. In 1998, Carl and a circle of friends who shared his passion for wine, decided to take it to the next level and enter the crazy and wonderful world of winemaking. It took a few years to make those wine fueled dreams come to fruition, but that conversation was the catalyst for Westwood Estate Wines in Sonoma, California. In 2001, they started planting their Annadel Gap Vineyard and in 2005 the partners purchased the already existing Westwood Winery in the Sierra Foothills and moved it to Sonoma Valley. Westwood finally made its debut to the world in 2014 and the team includes Carl as the managing & founding partner, winemaker Ben Cane, and Sonoma legend David Ramey as the consulting winemaker.  

I must confess that I knew nothing of Westwood until I received an invitation to join Carl and Ben for a dinner they were hosting at The Capital Grille in New York City. Discovering something new is one of the joys of wine, so I was excited to spend an evening exploring Westwood. I'm so glad I did. Upon arrival, I was warmly greeted by a perfectly tailored and smiling Carl. Ben has an endearingly robust laugh and a charming Australian accent. So far, so good.  

image courtesy of Westwood

The warmth, elegance, and authenticity of Carl and Ben is expressed in their superbly crafted wines. Nestled between Hood Mountain to the north and the Sonoma Mountains to the south, Westwood is singularly focused on making world-class Burgundian and Rhone Varietals such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Roussanne, Viognier, and Syrah from their Annadel Gap Vineyard. Morning fog from the Pacific Ocean and gentle summer winds create ideal growing conditions. You won't find Westwood everywhere, fewer than 3,500 cases of their hand-crafted wines are produced, but these beauties are worth seeking out.

Westwood Estate "Sangiacomo Vineyard - Roberts Road" Chardonnay 2015 ($44)
Are you part of the ABC (Anything But Chardonnay) crowd? Westwood's lovely rendition may cause you to reconsider. California Chardonnay is so ubiquitous that many of us have become immune to its charms but Westwood is an elegant reminder of how delightful Chardonnay can be when not produced with a heavy hand. Rich and round but fresh and supple, this is a luscious Chardonnay that is creamy but not cloying. Lively acidity and minerality meld beautifully with citrus, vanilla, and subtle tropical fruit flavors. 


Westwood Estate "Annadel Gap Vineyard" Roussanne Viognier Rhone Blend 2016 ($36)
A California wine with French finesse, this blend of mostly Roussanne with Viognier and a kiss of Chardonnay, is precise but unabashedly pretty. Citrus, stone fruit, apple, and herbal flavors are balanced out by crisp minerality and vibrant acidity. 

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Westwood Estate "Annadel Gap Vineyard" Pinot Noir 2015 ($44)
 Very Burgundian in style, this graceful Pinot Noir is silky and juicy with soft tannins and flavors of red berries, tea leaves, and a touch of spice. 


Westwood Estate, Annadel Gap Vineyard "Legend" Proprietary Blend 2015 ($44)
Robust and velvety, Legend is a surprising and unique blend of Syrah, Tannat, and Counoise. This rich red hits all the right notes: rich, juicy, supple, textured, fruity, and spicy. Tannat is notorious for its aggressive tannins but they are artfully tamed in this beautiful wine and add elegant backbone and structure.



If you are planning a trip to Sonoma, schedule a visit to the Westwood tasting salon to explore more of their exceptional hand-crafted wines. After a few glasses, maybe your own winemaking dreams will be ignited! 

Sipping Easy: Five Fantastic Summertime Wines

Summertime provides so many ideal moments for sharing a bottle with friends. From barbecues to picnics, boat rides to rooftop rendezvous, here are five delicious wines from California, Tuscany, and Australia that pair perfectly with summer's easygoing elegance. Stay cool and sip well! 

The rooftop of the Public Hotel in NYC was the perfect setting for the recent Louis Pommery launch party. 

Louis Pommery Brut California Sparkling ($24)
Sip chic in the summer heat with this charming new California bubbly created by France's legendary Champagne Pommery. Crafted in the traditional Champagne method, Louis Pommery captures the essence of California with grapes that were sourced from quality vineyards across the state to create a flavor profile that isn't exclusively Napa Valley. A crisp and refreshing blend of mostly Chardonnay (96%) with a kiss of Pinot Noir (4%), Louis Pommery is as elegant and crisp as summer linen and has pristine flavors of green apple and lemon sorbet.

 Banfi "La Pettegola" Vermentino Toscana 2016 ($14)

 La Pettegola (Gossip Girl) is the perfect wine for sharing some juicy news with friends. More than just a cute name, La Pettegola is an absolutely charming expression of Vermentino. Aromatic and appealingly luscious, this fruit-forward dry white wine is quite rich and round with robust white peach and citrus flavors.



 Tenuta Sassoregale Sangiovese Maremma Toscana 2014 ($18)
 The Sangiovese grape really shines in Sassoregale's vibrant flavors of fresh cherries and red berries that are balanced by a hint of spice. Silky and juicy, this tasty Tuscan red is quite refreshing and won't overwhelm your palate on a steamy day.

 Notable Australia Chardonnay 2016 ($14.99)
Notable cleverly takes the guess work out of figuring out the flavor profile of their wines - it's clearly indicated on the label using a musical notes motif. Their unoaked Australia Chardonnay is accurately described as having flavor notes of citrus, melon and peach. Sourced from grapes in select vineyards in South Eastern Australia, Notable is a fun, fresh, and no-fuss Chardonnay. If you like a bit of oak in your Chardonnay, try Notable California Chardonnay 2015 - it spends 9 months in French oak and has flavors of butter, oak, and vanilla.


Ravage Cabernet Sauvignon California 2015 ($14)
Trying to choose a red wine for a backyard barbecue? A robust but velvety red with dark berry, vanilla, and mocha flavors; Ravage is a tasty match with ribs, steaks, and burgers.  

 

Let Your Babies Grow Up to be Winemakers: Wine is a Family Affair at Fullerton

  Two generations bound by love of family and wine - Alex and Eric Fullerton of Fullerton Wines.

Don't be alarmed if you encounter a pre-schooler swirling his sippy cup like it's a fine pinot noir - you may be in the presence of a future winemaker. Alex Fullerton's teachers may have been startled by his precocious milk swirling, but his wine-loving  parents knew that he was simply emulating their actions. Today, a grown-up Alex is the winemaker for his family's boutique winery, Fullerton Wines, in Oregon's Willamette Valley.

Founded in 2012, Fullerton Wines is truly a family affair that celebrates the beauty of wine and honors their northern European heritage. Eric, the patriarch of the family is of Danish descent and Susanne, the matriarch, is from Sweden. The family's journeys through Old World wine regions such as Bordeaux, Champagne, and Burgundy had a profound impact on Alex and he officially started his career in winemaking as a cellar hand in Oregon for Penner-Ash Wine Cellars and Bergström Wines. Currently finishing his viticulture and enology degree at Oregon State University, Alex is also getting plenty of hands-on experience in the family business. "Chardonnay is my love. Pinot is my other love," said Eric, and the Fullerton portfolio beautifully showcases these varietals.   

I recently had the pleasure of tasting several wines in the Fullerton Wines portfolio with Eric and Alex over a dinner of modern Scandinavian cuisine at Aska restaurant (two Michelin stars) in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. But you don't have to indulge in haute cuisine to enjoy Fullerton Wines - their unpretentious elegance pairs just as beautifully with home cooked meals.  


Three Otters Chardonnay 2014 ($20)
Drawing inspiration from the three otters that have rested prominently on the Fullerton family crest since the 13th century (and as a tattoo on winemaker Alex's upper-arm), Fullerton's Three Otters wines are fun and fruit-forward. Produced with grapes from Northern Willamette Valley, this vibrant and crisp Chardonnay dances across the palate with fresh flavors of green apple, citrus, and a hint of herbs.  

Five FACES Pinot Noir 2013 ($33)
Displaying impressive finesse and texture, this elegant Pinot Noir balances flavors of fresh cherry and strawberry with a thread of earthiness that adds depth. Vibrant acidity and soft tannins add additional complexity to this superb sip. FACES is an acronym for the five Fullerton family members (Filip, Alex, Caroline, Eric, and Susanne). 

Croft Vineyard Pinot Noir 2014 ($45)
Taking their love of Pinot Noir to the next level, Fullerton also produces several single-vineyard selections. My favorite of the evening was this silky, intense, juicy, and peppery sip from the Croft Vineyard. A beautifully balanced and supple wine with an approachable complexity, Croft is rich and refreshing with layers of flavor and lively acidity. 

Momtazi Vineyard Pinot Noir 2014 ($60)
Momtazi is no meek little Pinot Noir. Like an opera diva, Momtazi boldly hits all the notes and is impossible to ignore. It is often said that Pinot Noir is unsurpassed in its ability to express terroir and the Momtazi Vineyard has imprinted its essence on these grapes and imbued them with astounding complexity. Rich flavors of Persian spices, black truffle, licorice, and green olive interact beautifully with this Pinot Noir's intense red berry and currant flavors.


 Meet the Fullerton family - Filip, Susanne, Eric, Alex, and Caroline. 
image courtesy of Fullerton Wines

Not even 30-years-old, Alex Fullerton brings impressive maturity and passion to his winemaking. Alex's talent combined with the experience and support of his family are a powerful combination. I look forward to following the Fullerton family's wine adventures for many years to come!