Wine 1004

As the grand opening of Costco in Napa approaches, excitement builds with just two days remaining. Shoppers are already gathering outside the expansive 157,417-square-foot location, eager to access bulk groceries and home essentials at unbeatable prices.

Among the early arrivals is Allen Le, who traveled from Sacramento to join the queue. He humorously mentioned his purpose for being there: to stock up on “some booze.” Allen also shared that the Costco staff had been kind enough to provide pizza for those waiting, ensuring they are comfortable during their wait.

On the day of the opening, which falls on Friday, employees anticipate that the line will extend around the large warehouse, highlighting the eagerness of the community to get inside.

Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for this significant event.

Costco members residing in Napa can now enjoy the convenience of a nearby store, eliminating the need to drive to Fairfield or Vallejo, or make the trek over the Mayacamas to Santa Rosa. The new location is situated at 280 Riversound Way, right off Highway 221.

It is positioned at the southwest corner of Kaiser Road and Riversound Way, formerly known as Syar Way, just to the west of Napa Valley Corporate Drive.

This Costco store is a key component of a 154-acre redevelopment of the former Napa Pipe plant adjacent to the Napa River. The housing and commercial development project is referred to as RiverSound.

The regular operating hours for the store will be:

• Monday to Friday: 10 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.

• Saturday: 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.

• Sunday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

As noted on the Costco website, the Napa location will feature a food court, bakery, pharmacy, optical department, and a hearing aid center. Please be aware that the pharmacy will be closed on Sundays.

In addition to the tire service center, these offerings are available at the gas station, which operates every day of the week.

The gas station officially opened on October 10 and is beginning to draw in customers as the news spreads. It features 32 fueling stations and as of Wednesday afternoon, gasoline prices stood at $4.29 for regular and $4.69 for premium per gallon.

Operating hours for the gas station are from 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on weekdays, from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays, and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays.

The new store will feature the largest selection of wine at any Costco across the nation, according to a manager’s statement shared with The Press Democrat.

On Friday, October 18, a ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. Costco will have a “special guest” to serve as the announcer for this momentous occasion. Additionally, whiskey representatives will be present to sign bottles, including the San Francisco 49ers Gold Bar, marking the store’s grand opening.

Following the ceremony, the store will officially open its doors to customers at 8 a.m., with regular business hours commencing on Saturday.

Customers who register for an annual membership and opt for automatic renewal by November 17 will receive digital gift cards worth up to $40 to use at Costco.

Signing up for an Executive membership, which costs $130 annually, will entitle you to a $40 gift card. Meanwhile, a Gold Star membership at $65 per year will grant a $20 gift card. Leading up to Friday, Costco has organized tents at the new location for those interested in signing up for memberships.

Additionally, Costco typically introduces unique items to boost sales at its newly opened locations. The specifics will be disclosed when the doors open on Friday.

Over 300 individuals have been recruited to work at the new Costco in Napa.

You can contact Tarini Mehta at 707-521-5337 or tarini.mehta@pressdemocrat.com. Follow on X (Twitter) @MehtaTarini.

Do we really need 5,000 organizations proclaiming the finest wine or spirits in the world? Not necessarily. However, that doesn’t imply the existence of too many competitions. The situation is more complex than it appears.

Recently, the number of wine and spirit competitions across the globe exceeded 5,000. This figure, while staggering, is likely to be an underestimate. These events vary widely, from intimate local meetings to large-scale contests featuring thousands of submissions. While it may seem excessive to have 5,000 entities declaring the best beverages, the key lies in how we interpret and utilize the awards given.

To begin addressing some prevalent myths, let’s tackle the size of the competitions. Is bigger always better? The simple answer is no. Many competitions boast about being the largest in the world. Yet, the sheer scale of the event does not inherently lend credibility to its findings. What truly matters is the number of entries assessed in each category. For instance, judging a thousand ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages may allow an event to label itself as the largest, but that doesn’t enhance the trustworthiness of its results for whisky, whiskey, or gin. It simply does not add credibility.

If bourbon is what you cherish, then the results from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) stand as the most credible. This competition receives the highest number of bourbon entries compared to any other event. When it comes to Scotch Whisky, the distinction goes to the International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC), which usually attracts the most submissions for both single malt and blended Scotch whiskies. The World Whisky Awards also draws a significant number of entries and sometimes even surpasses the other two competitions in terms of participation.

For Japanese whiskies, the Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition holds the most reputable results. Similarly, the Canadian Whisky Awards are esteemed for evaluating Canadian whiskey, while the Irish Whiskey Awards take the lead for Irish whiskey. Based on my experience as a judge in many of these competitions, I can confidently state that a larger number of entries leads to a more nuanced and precise judging process.

The Irish Whiskey Awards 2022 named Dunville’s 21 Year Old Palo Cortado Sherry Cask Finish Cask No. 1197 as the Whiskey of the Year.

In every competition, there is always an announcement for a “world’s best.” The declaration of many “world’s best” can seem paradoxical. Nonetheless, readers are eager to learn about the latest “world’s best,” and writers, myself included, are delighted to satisfy that curiosity.

The more relevant question, though, is why do various competitions each declare a different “world’s best”? One would anticipate that a “world’s best” whisky or gin would receive recognition at multiple events; after all, similar judging panels, which often include overlapping members, evaluate these spirits.

Having recently reviewed results from a decade’s worth of wine and spirit competitions around the globe, I’m struck by the reliability of the outcomes. Over time, and across different competitions worldwide, there was minimal significant variation in the top-ranked spirits, gauged by their gold medal or higher honors. This consistency underscores the impartiality of the judging process.

There is notable agreement among judges regarding the top 5% of wines or spirits within a category, as seen in competition outcomes. However, selecting the “world’s best” from this elite 5% can often be quite subjective, if not entirely arbitrary.

Furthermore, for consumers, the idea of a world’s best anything must be interpreted through their personal preferences. If you favor the smooth character of a wheated bourbon, a high rye variant is unlikely to be your “world’s best,” no matter how many accolades it receives. Similarly, if a Sherry-matured Speyside single malt is your preferred whisky, a heavily peated Islay expression will likely never make it to the top of your list.

Deciding on the “world’s best” spirit is ultimately a personal choice that depends on your individual tastes. Instead of fixating on the “world’s best” title from a contest, it is more beneficial to concentrate on the top-rated offerings—usually around the top 5% that receive Gold medals or above.

Your unique preferences should always guide your decisions about which wines or spirits you consider the best in the world. Essentially, what competitions achieve is the identification of a category’s leading contenders. The ultimate selection of a “world’s best” should be made by you, based on your specific desires in a spirit or wine.

Medals from the 2017 American Distilling Institute International Spirits Competition

Competitions play a significant role in unveiling new and emerging brands. With the surge of craft distillers and wineries globally, there are numerous new producers to discover. These competitions excel at pointing out new brands that deserve your attention.

The beverage industry is rife with stories of craft producers whose sales take off after they achieve recognition in significant competitions. In this context, the smaller, niche competitions often have a head start over their larger, more prestigious counterparts.

Curious about the emerging craft distillers? Events like the American Distilling Institute’s International Spirits Competition are frequently the first to bring attention to the next wave of craft distilling talent.

Similarly, if you’re on the hunt for the next standout wine from Virginia or Oregon, regional events such as Virginia’s Governor Cup tend to spotlight these new producers prior to larger wine contests like the Decanter Awards or the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Notably, the latter is recognized as the largest wine competition in North America, while the former holds the title for the largest globally.

Retail pricing plays a role in certain competitions, though not all. Discovering that the World’s Best Single Malt Scotch or Cognac carries a price tag in the thousands may be little more than a curiosity if your budget isn’t unlimited. While some may have that financial freedom, most consumers would find a high-quality, affordable spirit to be far more relevant than a luxury product they cannot purchase.

Some competitions, such as the New York International Spirits Competition (NYISC) and the London Spirits Competition (LSC), take pricing into account during their judging process. This consideration can make their results significantly more pertinent to consumers compared to competitions that overlook pricing.

The omission of pricing factors is particularly troublesome in wine evaluations. Approximately 85% of wines are priced under $20 per bottle. Yet, many competitions often favor higher-priced prestige brands or completely disregard price when determining their rankings.

LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 20: A steward chooses a bottle of wine for tasting at the ‘International Wine Challenge’ event in the Barbican Centre on April 20, 2010, in London, England. Judges will sample over 10,000 bottles of wine from around the world, with categories recognizing Gold, Silver, or Bronze winners in one of the most significant events of its kind globally. (Photo by Dan Kitwood/Getty Images)

Understanding that the world’s Best Pinot Noir is an extremely costly, elusive Burgundy does not benefit consumers much. A remarkable bottle priced between $50 and $100 that is accessible would likely be a more sensible option. Ultimately, a competition’s results should highlight wines that you can realistically purchase, rather than those that remain out of reach.

In light of this, a common challenge faced by many significant competitions is that a large proportion of craft entries tend to be local, making them inaccessible on an international scale. This limitation is particularly prevalent with white spirits such as vodka and gin. Without any aging requirements, these spirits can be produced more quickly and at a lower cost, leading to a wide variety of options available. However, their affordability can complicate international distribution.

Expressions that rank highly in European competitions often do not reach North America, while those from the United States are similarly unavailable in Europe or Asia.

This challenge is especially pronounced in the realm of wine competitions. South African wines, for instance, offer remarkable value and exceptional quality. Cap Classique sparkling wines exemplify this, as they are much more accessible in Europe than in North America. Unfortunately, top-rated South African wines that excel in European competitions are frequently difficult to find in the US, and purchasing them from online vendors overseas can make them prohibitively expensive.

Wine and spirit competitions play a significant role for producers as well. While the size or reputation of these competitions is important, it is just one aspect among several factors to consider. For spirits intended for cocktails, competing in local contests within vibrant mixology hubs such as Las Vegas, Miami, New York, or Los Angeles may yield better results for brand development compared to larger international competitions.

Similarly, if you’re a small brand in the process of establishing your distribution network, participating in smaller competitions can often facilitate connections with local distributors that are vital for your brand’s growth.

Are there perhaps too many wine and spirit competitions? It’s likely, but the answer really hinges on how you interpret the results and what insights you seek. When it comes to determining the best wine or spirit in the world, keep in mind that it only holds that title if it resonates with your personal taste. If it doesn’t, then its status is irrelevant. The outcomes from these competitions should serve as a starting point for exploration, not as a conclusion to accept without question.

Cheers

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Only 300 bottles of a new Riesling white wine from a limited section of a Grand Cru site have arrived in the U.S. market, and it is poised to attain legendary status.

At the entrance of Grand Cru Kitterlé, a unique ring sculpture welcomes visitors.

For dedicated collectors of notable and luxury white wines crafted from the Riesling grape, it’s well-known that these wines are among the most enduring, often thriving for up to 50 years when stored under optimal conditions. Fortunately, many can also provide a remarkable, transcendent experience much earlier in their lifespan.

Location: Alsace, France

Three renowned countries are celebrated for their iconic Riesling wines: Germany, Austria, and France. The first two are clear choices, but the inclusion of France might raise some eyebrows, as many popular wine varieties originate from this region, with Riesling perhaps seeming somewhat out of place. However, the northeastern French region of Alsace, which shares a border with Germany, has experienced numerous shifts in governance between the two nations. This history is still evident in Alsace today, reflected in the German-inspired architecture, the regional cuisine, traditional German surnames, and, importantly, the exceptional Riesling produced alongside three other esteemed white grape varieties.

An esteemed wine producer, Domaines Schlumberger, is one of the oldest wine houses in Alsace and possesses the largest collection of Grand Cru vineyards. They have unveiled a distinctive wine from a rare plot that is poised to become the next celebrated wine from Alsace: ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ Grand Cru Riesling.

Wine enthusiasts and collectors will quickly recognize that while the name ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ is mentioned as a Grand Cru vineyard, it does not actually exist as such in Alsace. Instead, it refers to a small, uniquely named parcel that operates as a monopole within the Grand Cru vineyard Kitterlé, which is Domaine Schlumberger’s premier site for Riesling. A monopole signifies that the parcel is wholly owned by a single producer, in this case, Domaine Schlumberger. This exceptional Grand Cru monopole is situated at an elevation exceeding 1,000 feet, featuring terraced slopes that ascend at a steep 50 degrees, earning it the nickname “Calf Breaker.” This moniker reflects the challenging reality of vineyard management, which must be accomplished manually due to the terrain’s severity. The unique attributes of this parcel, combined with the prevalence of volcanic rocks in the soil, contribute to producing low yields that result in highly complex and concentrated wines.

Have you ever wondered about the origin of the name Le Clos Saint Léger? It takes its name from the nearby Saint Léger Church, where a monk documented the area in the 12th century, describing it as a “blessed valley, like a celestial jewel.” This description beautifully encapsulates the wine’s remarkable attributes.

Séverine Schlumberger and Thomas Schlumberger

Currently, Thomas Schlumberger, the seventh-generation co-owner, manages Domaines Schlumberger alongside his sister, Séverine. Their family is recognized for owning the most extensive collection of Grand Cru vineyards, with a total of four different Grand Crus. They acknowledge the weight of their responsibility and approach it with seriousness. Thomas feels immense gratitude for his family’s natural ability to recognize exceptional vineyard sites long before the official classification system was established, as well as their perseverance in safeguarding these valuable lands through challenging times.

‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ Grand Cru Riesling, positioned near the ring sculpture

Thomas and his sister have adopted organic farming methods to enhance the balance of their vines. They have implemented horse plowing, which is environmentally friendly and helps mitigate soil compaction, while also opting for reduced yields despite the already naturally low yields of their small parcel called ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’. For the release of their special bottling designated as ‘Le Clos Saint Léger,’ they plan to withhold vintages until they are deemed ready for sale. Thomas mentioned that the 2019 vintage will likely be released before the 2018, as the latter appears to require significantly more aging. He emphasized that any vintage failing to meet the highest standards will be excluded from the ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ bottling.

The Schlumberger family possesses 50 acres of the 64-acre Grand Cru Kitterlé area, making them multi-generational authorities on this exceptional Grand Cru estate. Their intimate knowledge of each small segment of this remarkable site, which features one of just a few vineyard areas in Alsace with distinctive volcanic soil, speaks volumes. Therefore, when they claim that the ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ parcel represents their finest location for Riesling, it carries great significance. No other producer boasts as many Grand Cru vineyards as they do, and their familiarity with the Grand Cru Kitterlé site—characterized by its demanding viticulture due to steep slopes—sets them apart. This expert knowledge applied to an already outstanding vineyard points to the potential creation of an iconic wine.

2019 Domaines Schlumberger ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ Grand Cru Riesling

A limited production of a few thousand bottles of the 2017 Domaines Schlumberger ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ Grand Cru Riesling has been made, with only 300 bottles allocated for the U.S. market.

The tasting notes provided cover not only the 2017 vintage but also the 2018, 2019, and 2020, although currently, only the 2017 is available for purchase in select locations, with the other vintages set aside until they are ready for release; each bottle is meticulously hand numbered.

2017 Domaines Schlumberger ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ Grand Cru Riesling: Made entirely from Riesling sourced from the ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ parcel. The wine showcases a fantastic light golden hue that sparkles in the light, complemented by enchanting aromas of smoky minerals, honeysuckle, and a remarkable purity of fruit. On the palate, it reveals a delightful richness balanced by lively acidity, with a textural quality that contributes lift and precision throughout the long, expressive finish.

2018 Domaines Schlumberger ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ Grand Cru Riesling: Also 100% Riesling from the ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ parcel. The nose captivates with delightful scents reminiscent of freshly made crêpes drizzled with lemon curd and sprinkled with candied violets. It possesses a robust backbone of saline minerality and bright acidity, embellished by hints of aniseeds that subtly emerge in the background.

2019 Domaines Schlumberger ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ Grand Cru Riesling: This vintage is once again 100% Riesling from the ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ parcel. It presents a refined bouquet of wet river stones accompanied by juicy apricots, delivering a palate rich in dense flavors, including caramelized peaches, balanced by zesty orange rind. The wine features a well-structured body and a laser-focused finish, highlighting its crisp acidity.

2020 Domaines Schlumberger ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ Grand Cru Riesling is a remarkable wine crafted from 100% Riesling grapes sourced from the ‘Le Clos Saint Léger’ vineyard. It presents an alluring bouquet featuring lemon blossom intertwined with subtle hints of jasmine. The wine’s profile is complemented by an underlying essence of salty lemon confit, while its pronounced acidity infuses a dynamic energy that showcases a remarkable level of tension.

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Inside the art of wine curation and how one leading importer builds its portfolio after 20 years in operation.

A collection of French wines in the Vintus portfolio.

When it comes to choosing wines for import, the decisions made by a company can define not just its portfolio but also its identity in a competitive global market.

These decisions are increasingly important as the global wine industry has struggled over the last few years due to several contributing factors, including inflation and climate change. According to the International Organisation of Vine and Wine, global wine consumption fell to a 27-year low in 2023. In addition, global wine production saw a decline this year compared to the last, with 237.3 million hectoliters produced, a drop from 262.6 million hectoliters in 2022, according to Statista.

For Vintus, a wine importer that has experienced steady growth since its inception in 2004, curating the perfect collection is a blend of artistry and scientific precision. Throughout the last twenty years, the company has curated a portfolio featuring over 50 iconic wine brands from a diverse set of countries, including France, Spain, Italy, Argentina, and New Zealand.

Michael Quinttus, the founder and CEO of Vintus, shared during a Zoom interview that the company’s approach emphasizes a harmonious mix of smaller family-owned estates along with more widely recognized producers.

“When Vintus evaluates the possibility of incorporating a new wine brand into its portfolio, it seeks specific essential traits that resonate with its strategic vision, values, and market positioning,” said Quinttus. “The most crucial factor is the quality of the wine, which must have a distinct sense of place and showcase a brand’s dedication to excellence. Wine should be intimately connected to its terroir—comprising the geography, climate, and soil that play a vital role in shaping the wine’s features.”

He noted that the key challenge is balancing well-known, globally recognized producers with smaller, family-run estates that provide unique, artisanal wines. Every new addition to the company’s portfolio is a thoughtful choice, motivated by a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and authenticity.

“Our producers prioritize sustainable, organic, or biodynamic farming methods,” stated Quinttus. “Any new brand should reflect our commitment to providing premium and luxury wines.”

This approach seems to be paying off, as the company has experienced over 50% growth in the past five years. Quinttus points to significant decisions, like the establishment of Vintus’ own distribution branch in New York in 2019, as pivotal in this success.

“Relocating our office to Manhattan in 2020 and adding event and tasting spaces was another crucial investment,” he noted, emphasizing that these initiatives have enabled Vintus to connect more closely with its customers on both local and national levels. “This has allowed us to collaborate directly with restaurants and retailers to enhance our brands in the most vital fine wine market in the U.S.”

In addition to its operational growth, Vintus has greatly expanded the variety of brands it represents. Since 2020, the company has welcomed several domestic and international estates, including Gary Farrell, Marietta, and Iron Horse from Sonoma, as well as renowned names like William Fèvre Chablis, Château de La Chaize Beaujolais, and Juvé & Camps Cava.

Although the company is experiencing growth, it is also grappling with challenges within the industry, particularly related to changing consumption habits and economic pressures. Factors such as inflation, elevated interest rates, and a shift in preferences among younger consumers are affecting the wine sector overall.

Quinttus recognizes these hurdles but maintains a hopeful outlook.

“Luckily, our emphasis on premium wines positions us advantageously since demand in this segment has proven to be more stable,” he remarked. “There are positive recent trends in the economy, including strong employment figures, declining inflation, and the latest half-point interest rate reduction by the Federal Reserve, which should create a more conducive environment for the ongoing growth of our business.”

In light of the increasing appeal of ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages and non-alcoholic alternatives, Vintus is actively seeking ways to broaden its product range.

“A significant long-term concern is the shifting consumption habits, as younger consumers are consuming less alcohol compared to former generations and are increasingly open to alternative products,” Quinttus stated. “By staying agile and responsive, we aim to address these industry challenges while maintaining our growth.”

Looking ahead, Vintus is poised for further expansion, particularly beyond its primary focus on wine. Quinttus highlights forthcoming additions to the portfolio, especially from Italy and Spain. The company also intends to invest in technology and process enhancements to improve its relationships with distributors and customers.

“We will also explore developing categories that complement our wine business,” Quinttus noted. “Non-alcoholic beverages are one example, and while spirits currently constitute a small portion of our business, they are certain to grow in significance in the coming years.”

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Marble Room Steaks and Raw Bar is hosting an extravagant wine dinner.Judie Vegh, special to cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Marble Room Steaks and Raw Bar is preparing for an extravagant upcoming wine dinner.

The First Growth Bordeaux wine dinner features seven courses, 12 wines, and costs $1,000 – it will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 30.

The selection of wines is rare and represents the crème de la crème of France’s Bordeaux region. Many wine pairings will be served alongside the corresponding dish.

• A sumptuous sea scallop and lobster mousseline, known for its silky, rich texture reminiscent of Hollandaise, is paired with Bulgarian osetra caviar, beurre blanc, chives, and zucchini. Wine pairing: 2020 Château d’Yquem Bordeaux Blanc.

• Enjoy turbot a la meuniere, a delightful fish served with a buttery sauce, accompanied by beurre rouge, beurre noisette, a medley of fall vegetables, and chervil. Wine selections include 2020 Château Lafite Rothschild Premier Cru Classé and 2020 Carruades de Lafite.

• Experience cedar-roasted poulet farce coq au vin, featuring roasted wild mushrooms, pearl onions, shaved black truffle, and a luxurious bacon-tarragon sauce Bordelaise. The recommended wines are 2020 Château Mouton Rothschild Premier Cru Classé and 2019 Le Petit Mouton de Mouton Rothschild.

• Indulge in lobster thermidor with buttered brioche, complemented by a salad of shaved fennel, frisée, and watercress, all drizzled with sauce a l’Americaine. Suggested wines are 2011 Château Haut-Brion Cru Classé de Graves and 2019 Le Clarence de Haut-Brion.

• Duck a l’orange served alongside roasted brussels sprouts, crispy parsnip, cranberry vinaigrette, and chestnut puree. Recommended wines include the 2019 Château Margaux Premier Grand Cru Classé and the 2016 Pavillon Rouge de Château Margaux.

• Enjoy a Wagyu bouef bourguignon accompanied by baby carrots, marble potatoes, cauliflower, hearts of celery, and a rich chasseur (brown sauce). Pair this dish with the 2015 Château Latour Premier Grand Cru Classé and the 2017 Les Forts de Latour.

• For dessert, indulge in a dark chocolate-studded lemon ricotta soufflé paired with stracciatella blueberry ice cream, burnt honey, and apricot bavarois (crème Anglaise), beurré noisette financier (tea cake), spiced pear sabayon (light custard), and candied marcona almonds. A wonderful wine to complement this treat is the 2020 Château d’Yquem Premier Supérieur Sauternes.

To make reservations, visit exploretock.com.

Marble Room is located at 623 Euclid Ave., Cleveland.

I write about restaurants, beer, wine, and topics related to sports for our life and culture team. You can find my recent stories in this directory on cleveland.com. Every Thursday around 8:20 a.m., I discuss food and drink with Bill Wills on WTAM-1100. You can follow me on Twitter and Instagram at @mbona30. My latest book, co-written with Dan Murphy, is titled “Joe Thomas: Not Your Average Joe” by Gray & Co.

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Even if the sun is shining, expect a downpour of fun at the Healdsburg Plaza for the Boys and Girls Club of Sonoma-Marin Healdsburg Crush event taking place from noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Join over 60 wineries as they showcase some of their finest selections at this delightful wine tasting event, featuring delectable varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and sparkling wines.

VIP tickets are priced at $185, granting early access to the festivities starting at noon, while general admission tickets are available for $135.

Additionally, there are several supplementary winemaker events on offer on Friday and Saturday, as well as Sunday morning. These include a hands-on harvest experience for $65, hosted by Daniel Wines, and a Bayou Brunch for $85, featuring the delightful collaboration between Healdsburg Bubble Bar and Parish Café.

Discover additional details and buy tickets at bgcsonoma-marin.org/healdsburgcrush. Location: Healdsburg Plaza.

BORDEAUX, FRANCE – SEPTEMBER 22: (NO UK Sales For 28 Days Post Create Date) King Charles III and … [+] Queen Camilla participated in a wine tasting at Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte to explore sustainable vineyard practices in the Bordeaux wine region on September 22, 2023. This marks the King and the Queen’s inaugural state visit to France, which will cover Paris, Versailles, and Bordeaux from Wednesday, September 20, to Friday, September 23, 2023. The visit was originally planned for March 26 to 29 but was delayed due to widespread strikes and protests.

In the past, the notion of hosting a wine tasting at home might have seemed like a snooty way to spoil a fun gathering. Nowadays, however, such tastings are viewed as much less pretentious and can serve as a delightful way to gather friends without the hassle and expense of a formal dinner. Plus, it’s unlikely anyone will get overly upset about losing a hand of poker during the evening!

That said, randomly selecting wines to taste can lack direction and may fall flat. While inviting wine enthusiasts is not essential, including guests with a moderate appreciation for wine can lead to an enjoyable and enriching experience for everyone involved.

With that in mind, here are some helpful tips for organizing a wine tasting aimed at those who possess a casual understanding and interest in wine, as opposed to those who engage in deep discussions about vineyard technology and pH levels during social events.

When hosting a wine tasting, it’s essential not to overdo it with the number of selections. Ideally, aim for four to six different wines. Offering fewer just doesn’t provide enough variety, while presenting too many can feel overwhelming.

The next consideration is whether you want to conduct a blind tasting. This approach allows participants to evaluate the wines without any bias from knowing the brands. If you choose this method, cover the bottles with paper bags to conceal both the labels and the shape, which can be a giveaway for certain varietals like Pinot Noir and Riesling that often come in unique bottles. Number the bags and unveil the labels only after everyone has made their evaluations.

You can showcase wines from specific regions such as Tuscany, New Zealand, Napa Valley, or Sicily. Alternatively, you could focus on varietal grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, or Chardonnay.

A vertical tasting involves sampling the same wine from a single producer across various vintages, which may not be ideal for those who are unfamiliar with wine.

On the other hand, a horizontal tasting consists of trying wines from the same vintage or grape varietal but produced by different winemakers.

When it comes to glassware, enthusiasts often prefer a specific shape, despite restaurants choosing varied styles for different wine types, such as serving Alsatian wines in green-stemmed glasses. Ideal wine glasses should be thin, allowing for a four-ounce pour to fill about half the glass. This design facilitates swirling and examining the wine’s aroma, which is essential for discussion. It’s important to note that a proper tasting experience differs significantly from sipping five half-glasses during a meal. Interestingly, you can find quality thin wineglasses for less than five dollars at large retailers like Costco.

Having plain water and some crackers or bread on hand is a good idea to cleanse your palate between wines during a tasting. Using salted butter on the cracker can also enhance the flavors of the wine, as the fat helps to deliver flavor more effectively.

If you plan to serve wine alongside dinner, it’s advisable to keep the food uncomplicated to ensure that the wine takes center stage: consider pairing simply grilled red meats with bold red wines, and cheeses or seafood with white wines, and vice versa.

Colorized engraving features a portrait of the British poet and writer George Gordon, Lord Byron (1788 – 1824), from the early 1800s. (Photo by Stock Montage/Getty Images)

As the host, it’s a great idea to encourage conversation, perhaps by raising a toast, reminiscent of Lord Byron’s words: “Let us have wine and women, mirth and laughter,/ Sermons and soda-water the day after.”

Additionally, it’s important to consider who will cover the cost of the wines; friends may wish to chip in to share the expenses. Keep in mind that one bottle can typically provide a tasting sample for about six friends, so having six bottles should be more than enough.

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On July 30, 2024, Pairings Portland presented a wine flight inspired by Taylor Swift. This wine bar located in Northeast Portland is known for its unique concept of pairing wines with elements of pop culture, literature, and even adjectives.Teresa Mahoney

Pairings Portland, a wine bar situated in Northeast Portland, is dedicated to curating wine flights that connect with pop culture icons, TV shows, books, and more.

The owner, Jeffrey Weissler, aims to make wine enjoyable and accessible by transforming the conversation around it. His bar emphasizes pairings based on familiar, everyday words—terms that people can relate to emotionally—rather than the often complex and daunting terminologies typically seen in wine tasting notes.

This innovative approach has led to a diverse array of wine pairings linked to various subjects, including beloved TV shows like Bridgerton, popular fantasy literature, and even the Portland Trail Blazers—and intriguingly, even the experiences associated with menopause.

We embarked on a quest to discover some of the most innovative or surprising methods to relish fine, local wines. Pairings, with its energetic and distinctive approach to wine enjoyment, was included in our list of exceptional wine experiences in the region.

This past summer, we attended the bar’s Taylor Swift Lovers wine flight event. Each flight comprised eight wines, with each one reflecting Taylor Swift’s significant relationships – including ex-boyfriends, past best friends, and her current partner, Travis Kelce.

If you visit on a weeknight, we suggest sharing a flight. The servings are plentiful, and we had work commitments the following day.

Pairings presents a diverse array of themed flights throughout the year. This month, in celebration of the spooky season, the wines will be matched with ‘sexy vampires’ from pop culture – featuring references from Twilight, Vampire Diaries, Anne Rice, and many others.

Pairings Portland, 455 NE 24th Ave, Portland, Monday 4 p.m.-8 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday 12 p.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 12 p.m.-9 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m.-8 p.m.

— Julie Evensen covers trending topics and popular culture. She can be reached at jevensen@oregonian.com or @juliecevensen on Twitter and @julieevensen on Threads.

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How you store your wine matters,

When it comes to storing wine at home, it goes beyond simply picking a cool area in your kitchen or pantry. Whether you’re an occasional sipper or a dedicated enthusiast, the way you store your wine significantly affects its flavor when you uncork it. The encouraging part? You don’t require an extensive wine cellar to store your bottles correctly. By following a few essential guidelines, you can keep your wine fresh and delightful for months—or even years. Here’s what you should understand about the proper way to store wine at home.

A young woman is getting a bottle of white wine from her wine cooler at home

A crucial element in wine storage is maintaining the right temperature.

“When a bottle of wine is stored in excessively warm or hot environments, it can become ‘cooked’—this means that the bright fruit flavors may start to take on a jammy taste, particularly in red wines,” shares Hilary Cocalis, Founder and Chief Go Getter of Sipwell Wine Co.

Wine is vulnerable to both heat and cold, and erratic temperature changes can cause it to age too rapidly or diminish its flavor profile. The ideal storage temperature for wine is consistently around 55°F (13°C). However, if you lack a specialized wine fridge or cellar, there’s no need for concern. Most wines will remain stable if stored between 45°F and 65°F, provided the temperature remains fairly constant.

Avoid placing wine in locations that tend to experience extreme heat or cold, such as near a stove, refrigerator, or windows where direct sunlight may elevate the temperature. Excess heat can lead to spoilage, while excessive cold can freeze the wine, which is particularly detrimental for sparkling varieties.

“What’s more crucial than the specific temperature is the stability of that temperature and overall climate,” emphasizes Lori Budd, Owner and CMO of Dracaena Wines. “A bottle stored at a steady 73 degrees will age more favorably than one that frequently fluctuates between 60 and 73 degrees. Variations in temperature cause the wine in the bottle to expand and contract, impacting the position of the cork.”

Red wine being poured into a glass.

The humidity level is a factor to consider in wine storage, although it becomes less significant for short-term preservation. The optimal humidity for your storage area should be around 70%. Excessive humidity can lead to mold growth on the cork, whereas insufficient humidity can dry out the cork, enabling air to seep into the bottle and compromise the wine.

Light also poses a threat to wine, especially direct sunlight.

“Bottled wine is vulnerable to light and sun exposure – this can lead to what is known as ‘light strike,’ which increases sulfur compounds in wine, resulting in aromas reminiscent of rotten eggs,” explains Cocalis.

Many wine bottles are crafted from dark glass because it effectively shields the wine from light exposure. Even though dark glass provides some protection, it is advisable to store wine in a cool and dark environment, away from both windows and bright artificial lighting.

One common inquiry that arises is how wine should be stored: on its side or standing upright. The standard guideline suggests that bottles with corks should be kept horizontally. This orientation ensures that the cork remains moist, preventing it from drying out and shrinking.

“When wine is stored upright, it can lead to the cork drying out, allowing oxygen to seep in and potentially causing the wine to oxidize,” explains Cocalis.

Screw-top bottles are more convenient and can be stored vertically when space is limited. Nevertheless, if you possess a wine rack, horizontal storage serves as an excellent alternative, enabling you to pack more bottles into the available space.

Wine cellar

Not every wine is designed for aging. In fact, many bottles available today are ready for enjoyment within a year or two after purchase. When planning for short-term wine consumption, prioritize keeping it cool and shielded from direct light. Suitable places for short-term storage include a kitchen cabinet, pantry, or even a closet.

For wines that improve with age, such as certain reds and some whites, a more controlled environment is necessary for long-term storage. A dedicated wine fridge or cooler is the best option. If that’s not possible, look for a basement or another cool, dark area in your home. Ensure that you monitor the temperature and humidity levels to maintain ideal storage conditions for the wine.

Close-up of two dusty wine bottles that appear to have been resting in a cellar for … [+] many years.

Wine isn’t eternal, even when properly stored. The duration for which a wine can be kept relies on its variety:

Sommelier pouring red wine into elegant wineglasses.

When a bottle of wine is opened, exposure to air begins to alter its flavor. To maintain its freshness, it’s advisable to re-cork the bottle or use a wine stopper and place it in the refrigerator. While red wines can remain at room temperature for a day or two, they should be chilled after that. In general, most wines will only preserve their freshness for three to five days after being opened. For those seeking an extended lifespan for their wine, a vacuum pump or a wine preservation system could be a valuable investment.

Bottles with wine in a modern wine vault

Another consideration that can affect wine storage, especially for long-term aging, is vibration.

“If wine is agitated, it accelerates the maturation process,” explains Budd. “Vibrations also disrupt the sediment that may be present in the bottle and can trigger chemical reactions that influence the wine’s compounds, impacting aromatics and potentially increasing acetone notes.”

For this reason, it is advisable to avoid storing wine in areas with significant movement, such as near a washing machine or other appliances. A stable, quiet environment is ideal.

Storing wine at home can be simple and affordable. By ensuring your bottles are kept in a cool, dark place and laid on their sides, you can maintain their flavors and enjoy them at their peak. Whether you’re saving a bottle for a special moment or just preparing for the week ahead, adhering to these guidelines guarantees that your wine remains fresh and ready for enjoyment.

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