Wine 828

The 46th annual Mendocino Wine Competition took place on August 17 in Hopland, showcasing a unique blend of public and professional judges tasting the same wines. This format proved effective in aligning preferences, as significant agreement was found between industry experts and consumers on their favorite selections.

Among the standout winners, the NV Roederer Brut Rosé claimed the People’s Choice in the sparkling wine category, with the 2011 Terra Savia Blanc de Blanc closely following. Conversely, the industry judges awarded Best of Class to the Terra Savia.

For chardonnay enthusiasts, the 2024 Kalpela Chardonnay won over the public, while the industry favored the 2023 Barra Reserve Chardonnay, demonstrating some divergence in taste preferences yet still a shared admiration for quality wines.

From nine entries in the sauvignon blanc category, the 2024 Husch Vineyards was designated Best in Class by industry judges, while consumers opted for the 2024 Bonterra Organic Estate. This trend of nearly identical preferences continued in the pinot noir category, where both groups recognized the 2023 Girasole Vineyards Pinot Noir as Best of Class.

The rosé section saw the Handley Cellars 2024 Pinot Noir Rosé awarded Best of Class by industry judges, while the People’s Choice was the 2024 Navarro Vineyards Rosé of Sangiovese. A noteworthy consensus also emerged with the 2023 Rustic Ridge Zinfandel earning Best of Class recognition across both categories.

In the Syrah category, the People’s Choice was awarded to the 2021 Handley Cellars Syrah, Kazmet Vineyard, while the industry judges chose the 2024 Omen Syrah for Best of Class. The Petite Sirah category reflected close results as well, with the 2021 Graziano Petite Sirah being favored by consumers, but industry judges awarded the 2022 Barra Petite Sirah as Best of Class.

In dessert wines, both judges aligned, selecting the 2024 Husch Vineyards Late Harvest Gewurztraminer and recognizing the 2018 Terragena Riesling and 2018 Nelson Family Vineyards Ice Riesling with Gold medals.

As harvest season commenced, vineyards in the area, such as Alamitos in San Jose and Madson in Santa Cruz, began reaping the rewards of their labor with the anticipation of additional grapes coming in due to warm weather.

In the local wine scene, Melanie Bauer’s long-awaited Winston Champagne Bar opened in downtown Los Gatos, and longtime Testarossa winemaker Bill Brosseau officially launched his Brosseau Wines Studio in Marina. He invites wine lovers to experience his family’s vineyard offerings and his own unique creations. For a tasting experience, reservations can be made at Brosseau Wines with an upcoming Harvest Party scheduled for October 25.

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival at Walt Disney World is an annual celebration that showcases a vast array of flavors from around the world. This year, it features an exciting selection of both food and beverages that cater to a wide variety of palates, from classic American dishes to innovative international cuisine.

The festival runs alongside engaging activities like Emile’s Fromage Montage, a scavenger hunt for cheese lovers, and nightly entertainment, including the Eat to the Beat Concert Series and a spectacular fireworks display, Luminous: The Symphony Of Us.

Highlighted Foods and Drinks:

• Chicago-Style Hot Dog: This classic dish at the Flavors of America booth is topped with vibrant green relish, pickles, tomato slices, and onions, served on a soft poppy seed bun.

• Strawberry Basil Cocktail: Available at the U.K. Beer Cart, this cocktail is made with strawberry basil syrup, Beefeater Pink strawberry gin, St-Germain elderflower liqueur, and Seagram’s ginger ale, offering a refreshing summer flavor.

• Braised Beef Poutine: A hearty option from the Refreshment Port that includes fries topped with braised beef, herbed Boursin cheese, and gherkin relish.

• Poblano Margarita: This drink from the Mexico Booth features Lalo Tequila Blanco and Ancho Reyes Verde Chile Poblano Liqueur, providing a citrusy kick perfect for hot days.

• Adobo Yuca Fries: Found at The Fry Basket, these delicious yuca fries come with garlic-cilantro aioli and are a crispy treat that’s quite addictive.

• Pickle Milkshake: A unique offering at The Brew-Wing Lab, this quirky shake blends creamy goodness with a subtle pickle flavor, creating a conversation starter among festival-goers.

• Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich: Served at Connections Café and Eatery, this sandwich includes tender grilled chicken and a mountain of fries, making it a satisfying meal option.

• Brioche Aux Escargots: A delightful twist on traditional escargots, this dish features sautéed snails inside a brioche bun at the France Booth.

• Guava Cake: A plant-based dessert at Shimmering Sips, this guava cake topped with whipped cream and coconut is a tropical indulgence at an affordable price.

• Kyoho Grape Sour: A refreshing cocktail from the Japan Booth, it blends black grape juice with shōchū and vermouth, making it a perfect choice for a hot day.

With so many culinary experiences, the festival truly offers an exquisite journey through diverse flavors, ensuring that attendees leave with full stomachs and happy hearts. For more details on the event, you can visit the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival page.

Sipping a glass of refreshing white wine is a delightful way to unwind after a long day. However, finding a quality wine that strikes the right balance between taste and affordability can be challenging, especially when you want something enjoyable without breaking the bank. One grocery chain has caught the attention of white wine enthusiasts due to its appealing offerings.

Sarah Zeiler, a North Carolina-based content creator, is not only known for her lifestyle vlogs but also for her wine reviews on social media. As a Costco member, she passionately searches for great white wines that won’t empty her wallet. Recently, she excitedly shared her find of Ronsard La Pleiade Sancerre, a French wine, during one of her Costco hauls.

The discovery of this "amazing" Sancerre, typically priced higher at other retailers, was a thrill for Zeiler, especially since it was available for just under $15 at Costco. While some locations may list it around $20 or $18 online, this bottle usually retails for at least $29 elsewhere, making it a fantastic deal. Comments from her followers echoed her sentiments, with one exclaiming that it’s hard to find Sancerre for less than $30!

Sancerre refers to an esteemed wine region in France’s Loire Valley, recognized for its mineral-driven Sauvignon Blanc wines. The only white grape allowed in this appellation, Sauvignon Blanc, typically commands higher prices due to its limited supply and high demand. The Sancerre from Domaine de Ronsard flaunts a crisp, citrusy profile, showcasing grapefruit notes and elegant floral aromas.

Zeiler was immediately taken by the wine’s flavor, declaring it "so good" and praising its dry, light profile and vibrant fruit notes. This wine not only pairs beautifully with food but also stands out for its invigorating acidity, making it a prime choice for those seeking a bright, energetic taste.

Impressed by Costco’s efforts to offer more approachable French wines, Zeiler voiced her optimism that the retailer is listening to customers who crave quality at a reasonable price. This discovery has many hoping to fill their carts with this delightful Sancerre during their next Costco visit.

For more information about this Sancerre and other Costco wine selections, check out the original article on Food & Wine.

Wine storage might seem straightforward, but proper techniques play a crucial role in maintaining quality over time. Jessica Dukes, a sommelier at Grande Lakes Orlando, emphasizes that the integrity of wine relies on optimal conditions, including temperature, humidity, sunlight exposure, and bottle positioning.

Best Temperatures To Store Wine

Different types of wine thrive at specific temperatures. For example, Champagne is best stored between 40 to 50°F, white wine between 45 to 55°F, and red wine between 55 to 65°F. Camille Syren, brand director at Goguette, warns that temperature fluctuations can damage flavors, while Megan Brodie of Archer Roose Wines adds that warm conditions can lead to undesirable tastes—like cooked or flat flavors—while cold environments can dry out corks and create other issues.

Storing Canned Wine

Just like bottled wine, canned wine requires careful temperature management to prevent degradation of the can liner and off-aromas.

Serving Vs. Storage Temperatures

It’s crucial to distinguish between storage and serving temperatures. Red wines taste best between 57 and 64°F while white wines excel at 46 to 54°F, and sparkling wines shine at 43 to 50°F.

The Kitchen Fridge Dilemma

Regular refrigerators are not suitable for wine storage. They are too cold, too dry, and made for food rather than wine. Experts suggest using the fridge for short periods—ideally, no more than a month—because extended exposure can lead to cork spoilage.

Wine Fridges vs. Long-Term Storage

Wine refrigerators are ideal for short-term use, typically around one year. For longer aging, consider investing in dedicated long-term storage options. A three-zone fridge can help keep different wine types at their ideal temperatures, while a single-zone fridge requires you to adjust the temperature upon removal.

Storing Wine Bottles

Most wines should be stored horizontally to keep the cork moist, while screw-cap and canned wines can be stored vertically. This prevents corks from drying out, which can compromise storage integrity.

The Role of Humidity

Humidity impacts cork condition significantly. Ideal humidity levels for wine storage should be around 60 to 70 percent, which helps prevent cork drying or excessive wetness.

Importance of Darkness

Wine should be kept away from light to prevent chemical reactions triggered by UV rays. Dukes suggests storing wine in dark environments, like closets, to avoid spoilage caused by light exposure.

Kitchen Shelf Storage Limitations

Storing wine on a kitchen shelf for more than a week is ill-advised due to exposure to light, heat, and temperature fluctuations, which can spoil the wine.

By adhering to these expert guidelines, wine lovers can ensure that their collections remain in optimal condition for years to come.

Don’t let a good bottle of wine lose its essence too quickly; with the right storage methods, you can keep it fresh for several days after opening. Here are the main guidelines to follow for different types of wine.

How Long Does Wine Last After Opening?

• Red Wine: Red wines can last 3 to 5 days when stored properly in the fridge. While many circles believe red wine should be kept at room temperature, refrigeration slows oxidation and can sometimes enhance the flavor profile of the wine. For optimal taste, remove from the fridge roughly 10 minutes before serving to allow it to warm slightly.

• Full-bodied White Wine: These wines typically last about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. Because full-bodied whites like oaked Chardonnays oxidize faster, it’s essential to keep them tightly corked and refrigerated after opening.

• Light White, Sweet White, and Rosé Wines: These can usually hold up for 4 to 5 days when kept in the fridge. Like reds, they will start to lose their vibrant character but are still drinkable within a week.

• Sparkling Wine: Sparkling wines have the shortest lifespan, lasting only 1 to 3 days. To preserve the bubbles, store these bottles with a special sparkling wine stopper or a product like Coravin that pumps carbon dioxide back into the bottle.

Storage Tips to Extend Freshness

1. Use a Wine Preserver: Investing in a vacuum wine preserver can help remove oxygen from the bottle, which is key to maintaining wine’s flavor and aroma.

2. Store in the Refrigerator: An open wine bottle, regardless of type, should go in the fridge. The cooler temperature slows down chemical reactions and keeps the wine from spoiling.

3. Avoid Light and Heat: Keep wine away from direct sunlight and heat sources, such as near the stove or above a refrigerator, to prevent ‘cooking’ the contents.

Ideal Serving Temperatures

• Sparkling Wine: 40 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit
• Light Whites and Rosés: 45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit
• Full-bodied Whites and Light Reds: 48 to 56 degrees Fahrenheit
• Medium-bodied Reds: 55 degrees Fahrenheit
• Full-bodied Reds: 59 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit

By taking these precautions and understanding how to store your wine, you can savor every last drop rather than letting it go to waste. Cheers!

In the realm of wine enthusiasts, two distinct groups emerge: the educated sommeliers who appreciate the nuances of wine, and the casual drinkers who enjoy sipping a flavorful beverage in a relaxed atmosphere. Sangria, a refreshing fruity concoction, appeals to both groups. Celebrated for its lively flavor, making sangria doesn’t require a hefty financial investment.

Joe Mele, a sommelier and co-host of The Wine Pair Podcast, offers a straightforward perspective on the wine selection for sangria. He emphasizes that higher-quality wines do not enhance the drink’s flavor. Using an expensive wine in sangria is considered wasteful since the addition of fruit and sweeteners diminishes the importance of the wine’s quality. Mele notes, "Better wines do not make better sangria."

Sangria is intended for enjoyment and social gatherings, not for impressing wine aficionados. Instead of choosing a premium vintage, he suggests opting for cost-effective options available at local stores like Trader Joe’s.

When it comes to wines suitable for making red sangria, Mele recommends Spanish varieties such as Rioja and Garnacha, typically priced between $10 and $15. For white sangria, he suggests wines like Vinho Verde and Verdejo, easily found within the same price range. With the vibrant flavors introduced by fruits in sangria, the specific wine used becomes largely inconsequential to the overall experience.

Ultimately, whether serving red sangria alongside a charcuterie board or white sangria with lighter snacks, there’s no need to overspend on wine. The essence of sangria lies in its fun and approachable spirit, making it a perfect choice for gathering with friends.

The wine industry, especially in Oregon’s northern Willamette Valley, has faced significant changes over the past few years. While the pandemic did not completely derail the industry, it struggled with declining interest from younger generations and an ever-evolving corporate landscape characterized by acquisitions and changing ownerships.

Among Oregon’s wineries, Archery Summit stands out for maintaining its distinctive style despite these challenges. Producing around 10,000 cases from its Dundee Hills Estates, the winery has seen various ownership, from Olympic skier Gary Andrus to the current Napa-based Crimson Wine Group. Despite these transitions, dedicated winemakers have worked diligently to preserve the winery’s unique taste profile.

Recently, Kim Abramson took on the role of winemaker at Archery Summit. After spending eight years with one of Oregon’s well-respected brands, Lingua Franca, she decided to seize the opportunity to contribute to Archery Summit’s rich history. Her mission is to nurture the winery’s legacy while guiding it into its next chapter.

Regarding her approach, Abramson emphasizes the importance of patience and understanding the brand’s nuances. She knows that maintaining Archery Summit’s identity requires a thoughtful process, where questions like "why" and "how" are crucial for the winery’s evolution. With five estate vineyards as her canvas, Abramson aims to raise their distinctive voice while drawing insights from past winemakers.

Her perspective on change is clear: staying stagnant is not an option. She aims to refine rather than completely reinvent the winery’s approach, believing that evolution is essential for continued relevance. Each winemaker inevitably brings unique shifts, whether in oak usage or picking dates, and Abramson intends to blend these subtle changes within the existing framework of the winery’s traditions.

In conclusion, while she respects the foundation laid by her predecessors, Abramson envisions a future where Archery Summit remains true to its roots while adapting to the evolving landscape of the wine industry. The goal is to ensure that every wine produced speaks to the heritage of the vineyard, with the winemaking team serving as a guide.

Wine Experience Dana Point has commenced its soft opening, providing exclusive tastings for wine club members and selected guests. Owner Michael Davis, reflecting on the realization of his dream, feels emotional about the launch of this hybrid wine retail shop and tasting room.

Davis, who holds a level three certification from the Wine and Spirit Education Trust, previously co-owned A Hidden Vine on the Lake in Mission Viejo. After ten years of nurturing a local wine community there, he sought to establish a second location with a stunning ocean view.

The search for the perfect seaside spot spanned a year and a half, during which Davis examined approximately 40 different potential sites. Just when he thought his dream was unattainable, a call from his real estate broker opened the door to a new opportunity: a brand-new building in Dana Point featuring breathtaking views of the ocean.

With the location secured, Davis recalled the enthusiasm of former wine club members Stephen Hines and Karla Clarke, who had expressed interest in collaborating on a wine venture. Their partnership came to fruition, and together they launched Wine Experience Dana Point, blending elements of a wine bar, retail shop, and dining experience. The establishment boasts a team of expertly trained wine stewards, including sommeliers at every front-of-house position.

The shop features an extensive selection of popular and rare wines suitable for both novices and aficionados. Patrons can enjoy any bottle purchased on-site, with innovative wine-by-the-glass dispensers allowing for precise pours. This technology keeps wines fresh post-opening, using food-grade argon gas for still wines and carbon dioxide for sparkling varieties. Customers can load a card with funds to activate the dispensers, offering choices ranging from 1-ounce tastings to full glasses.

Davis emphasizes quality over quantity, with about 60% of their offerings being domestic and 40% imports, all personally vetted for high standards. Wine director Wendy Robb, a certified sommelier, has curated a diverse selection of wines from various regions, ensuring an exciting array for guests.

In addition to wine, the establishment serves complementary menus of cheese boards and charcuterie, as well as heartier dishes like braised short ribs. The anticipatory grand opening is scheduled for September 5, featuring a ribbon-cutting and live virtual DJ set, promising an engaging experience as guests savor wine with the sunset view.

Wine Experience Dana Point is set to officially open at 34137 Golden Lantern in Dana Point on September 5. For more information and reservations, visit wineexperiencedp.com.

Regina King, the celebrated actress and director, recently shared insights into her life, artistry, and her new venture into the world of wine with her orange wine, MianU. King’s journey has been characterized by powerful performances and deep personal connections, and her latest project honors her son, Ian.

During a captivating discussion at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, King opened up about her childhood, revealing how she and her sister used to hold performances, reciting poems and acting out stories. She reminisced about her grandmother’s cherished pound cake recipe, which she proudly displays in her home. This connection to family and tradition is a central theme in her life.

Traveling solo to France has had a lasting impact on King, teaching her openness and adaptability. She emphasized the importance of being present and attentive to one’s surroundings, which allows for deep connections to new experiences. Reflecting on her unexpected path to acting, she noted that she never envisioned being a Broadway star; instead, she enjoyed the craft organically, thankful that it chose her.

King is passionate about creating new memories with Ian, seeking to honor him through her wine. The idea for MianU stemmed from a simple yet profound moment when Ian introduced her to orange wine. "This wine is in celebration of him," she said, explaining that incorporating Ian’s name into the wine was a way to keep his memory alive and ensure he is never forgotten.

Her philosophy on life emphasizes connection and authenticity, underscoring the importance of nurturing relationships and making lasting memories. Through MianU, she hopes to inspire others to appreciate the beauty in everyday moments, encouraging them to savor the connections that make life meaningful.

In her quest for joy, King aspires to be a source of fun and connection for those around her, nurturing an environment where memories are made, cherished, and shared. Her journey through grief and love reflects a deep understanding of life’s fleeting but precious moments, reminding us all of the importance of being present and showing gratitude for our connections.

For more about Regina King’s journey and her work with MianU, you can visit MianU Wines.

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