“The Mirassou family has been growing grapes and crafting superior wines in the sun-drenched hills of California since 1854, earning the family the proud distinction of being America’s oldest winemaking family. 2004 marked an unprecedented 150 years of family winemaking.” [1]

It all started back in 1854 when Pierre and Henrietta Pellier travelled from France to California.  Pierre brought his grape cuttings with him.  On the way, the ship ran short of water.  Being the innovative man that he was, he purchased potatoes onboard and “inserted his cuttings, keeping the precious vines alive.”   Now you may notice that the winery was not named after Pierre and his wife.  It was named after their daughter, Henrietta, who married neighbouring vintner (are you ready for the name?) Pierre Mirassou.  Here we are six generations into it and David Mirassou and his brother-in-law Steve are carrying on the family tradition.

The Mirassou winery has been quite involved with individual LPGA events for a number of years, as well as, other women’s ‘golf-related’ events.   Mirassou wines are now the official wines of the LPGA.  Now that is something nice to have on your resume!

Mirassou Pinot Grigio

Location: California, U.S.A. 2010
Blend: Pinot Grigio
Tasting: Wednesday, January 18, 2012 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m

We have tasted Pinot Grigio (Pinot Gris) a number of times at Winesday over the past 5½ years and I am quite sure we will have the opportunity to sip on it again.  It is a fun wine to sip on.  Some are the big fat ones of Alsace or the light and easy drinking or even still the fruity style.  They are tasty.  It just depends on what you feel like drinking on a particular day.

Winery notes:

Our Mirassou California Pinot Grigio reveals intense aromas and flavors of peach, pear and citrus with crisp, lively acidity create an exceptionally refreshing wine. This versatile wine pairs beautifully with spicy dishes as well as grilled poultry or seafood. Our Pinot Grigio is ready to enjoy immediately upon release and should be able to age in the bottle for one to two years.

Our two recipes today have been taken from the Mirrassou website.  They looked completely mouthwatering.

Food Pairing:

Grilled Sea Scallop & Orange Spiedini Over Saffron Couscous with Pine Nuts and Currants;

Flatbread Pizza with Fresh Tomato Salad

CSPC:                   735074
Winesday Price:

$12.83 (Includes Winesday 10% discount)

Regular Price:

$14.25

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Mirassou Pinot Noir

Location: California, U.S.A. 2009
Blend: Pinot Noir
Tasting: Wednesday, January 18, 2012 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Beppi Crosariol  is a columnist with the Globe and Mail and writes about wine and spirits in the Globe’s Life Section and Style Section.  This is what he wrote about the 2009 Pinot Noir:  “It’s tough to find a Pinot Noir at this price that’s potable, let alone tastes like Pinot Noir. This one passes both tests, though you probably wouldn’t want to break it out for your Burgundy-aficionado future father-in-law. Medium-bodied, soft and creamy, with an essence of fresh berries - simple but stylistically correct.”

Customers ask if there is a certain style to the California Pinot Noir.  We would have to say ‘no’.  It seems to be a bit of this and a bit of that.  Some are quite full and others are lighter and more still are a little on the supple fruit style.  The Mirassou is known for being bright and easy drinking with some nice fruit, but not overbearing.  California Pinot Noir is on the rise and has been for almost a decade.   The release of the film ‘Sideways’ in 2004 certainly helped the popularity of Pinot Noir and that is a fact.  Any press is good press, as they say.

From the winery:

Displaying fresh fruit flavors of pomegranates, cherries and currants, balanced with fruit aromas, Mirassou California Pinot Noir is a bright reflection of our heritage as the pioneer of California Pinot Noir.

Food Pairing:

Vegetable, Pesto and Smoked Mozzarella Panini

Grilled Mushroom Stuffed Pork Loin

CSPC:                   716890
Winesday Price:

$12.83 (Includes Winesday 10% discount)

Regular Price:

$14.25

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice
Next week we are heading to the Okanagan.

COPAIN SAISON DES VINS VIOGNIER

Winery: Copain Wines
Location: California, U.S.A.
Blend: Viognier
Tasting: Wednesday, November 30, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m

Every winemaker we have spoken with has had an interesting story behind their chosen profession.  Wells Guthrie’s story, too, is an interesting one.  Wells worked for Wine Spectator in their San Francisco office as a tasting coordinator.  Not only had he fallen in love with wine, but he had a very strong desire to become a winemaker.  He left Wine Spectator and then he and his wife packed up and headed off to the Rhône Valley in France.

It was in the Rhône that two men had an incredible influence on his love of wine and winemaking.  Michel Chapoutier and Jean Louis Chave.  Wells worked as an apprentice to vintner Michel Chapoutier for two years.  You might be wondering why he wanted to work with Chapoutier.  Credentials, quite frankly.  The Chapoutier family has been in the wine industry in the Rhône Valley for more than 200 years.  If you drink wines from this region, then you most likely know the Chapoutier name.  Then there is Jean Louis Chave.  His family has been in the ‘vine’ business since the late 15^th century and is considered to have one of the finest wineries in the region.  Ironically, Jean Louis did his schooling at the University of California Davis.  We can only imagine the depth of the impact that these two ‘star’ Rhône vintners had on Wells.  His French winey name, Copain, in English means ‘buddy/friend’.  He gave it that name because he feels that wine is best shared with friends and family.  Hear hear.

Wells founded Copain in 1999 in the state of California and quickly became known for his big Syrah and received a lot of press.  Like all good winemakers, Wells believe that quality starts in the vineyard.  Over the years the alcohol has lowered in the wines and they have become longer lasting and more, shall we say, elegant.  He wants to be a winemaker forever.   Although they make many lovely wines, we are lucky to have Wells’ Viognier to sample this week.

Wells describes this wine:

“This stainless steel fermented Viognier combines candied lemon rind, subtle white flowers, and dried apricots in a steely mineral nose.  Aromatics carry well to the palate which is clean, crisp and lively with a zesty lemon curd and chalk finish.”

CSPC:                   722095
Winesday Price:

$25.19 (Includes Winesday 10% discount.)

Regular Price:

$27.99

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Rutherglen Estates Burgoyne’s Block MSG

Winery: Rutherglen Estates
Location: Rutherglen, Australia
Blend: 60% Mourvedre, 20% Shiraz, 20% Grenache
Tasting: Wednesday, November 30, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Although we did not plan it this way… both of our wines this week have their roots in the Rhône Valley.  They are not made there, of course, but the history leads us back to that region.

“Rutherglen Estates was conceived with the ambition to redefine the traditions of one of the world’s best fortified wine regions, by producing premium table wines from varieties most suited to the climate and conditions of the Rutherglen region.”

In the mid 19^th century, the Rutherglen region of Australia was one of the largest wine producers in the southern hemisphere.  However, they were mostly known for their fortified wines.  The United Kingdon was the recipient of most of these wines, which really isn’t that surprising.  They seemed to have an insatiable taste for all things fortified.  Peter Burgoyne was considered to be a ‘wine pioneer’ in his day and he had the idea to make the Rutherglen region the principal winegrowing area in Australia.  This wine was named in his honour.[1]

Modelled on the Rhône Valley classics, this blend heralds the delightful reunion of these varieties. Although Mourvedre is rarely the dominant variety in these traditional blends, the colour, structure and intensity of flavour from our Mourvedre, allows us to make a unique version, adding an extra gamey and rich dimension to the Shiraz and Grenache. Shiraz offers lovely berry fruit, pepper and colour richness, while Grenache is the strawberry, candy, vanilla and spicy support variety.  This wine is very drinkable, yet is sophisticated and elegant with great length, rounded tannins, truffles, pepper, spice and red berry fruits.”

CSPC:                   738576
Winesday Price:

$18.89 (Includes Winesday 10% discount.)

Regular Price:

$20.99

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Can you believe that next Winesday we will be a mere 18 days from Christmas?  We will be celebrating with two wines from Guardian Peak in South Africa.   We are looking forward to see you this week and next.

You have heard us say “Washington = Merlot” many times before.  We have a feeling that that saying may soon become “Washington = Charles Smith”.   The man and his wineries have been getting an incredible amount of press over the past few years.  From The Wine Advocate to Wine Spectator, there doesn’t seem to be any stopping this train.  If you met the man, you would be overwhelmed by his passion for winemaking.  It shows through in every fiber of his being.  It isn’t fraught with stuffiness, but just plain love of the stuff.  Richard and I wrote about Charles last year highlighting his Kung Foo Girl Riesling and Boom Boom Syrah

We recently had the delight of meeting Charles and his beautiful wife, Ginevra, when they visited Edmonton in October of this year.  We had the pleasure of enjoying dinner with them and about 25+ people.  Even with that many people, it was quite an intimate dinner.   Winter, the wine agent representative in Edmonton, told us that Charles wanted to make the dinner like a family event.  No plating food ahead of time.  He wanted all the food to come out in serving dishes and people could pass the dishes around the table just like at a big family dinner.  She said that he wanted to get people to chat and get to know each other.  Well, that we did.  And it was a blast!

Charles referred to the first couple of wines we enjoyed that evening like country wines.  ‘These are the type of wines like if you were in Tuscany and you asked for the local wine and they poured you a glass, this would be it.’  ‘There is no need to swirl it and sniff it, just drink it.’

If we were to describe Charles in a few words, we would say he is a ‘take me as I am’ kind of guy.  No fuss no muss.  We gotta say, that is great and truly refreshing.   Hey Charles!  Love the curly hair, man.  Of course, I am partial to curls myself.

The Velvet Devil

Winery: Charles Smith Wines
Location: Mattawa, Washington, U.S.A.
Blend: 2009: 90.6% Merlot, 9.4% Cabernet Sauvignon
          2010: 91% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon
Tasting: Wednesday, November 23, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m

Merlot.  People either love it or don’t.  Well, we love it.  It is a tough grape to describe because there is so much to it.  There is a lot of red fruit like:  raspberry and strawberry to name two.  Then there is the black fruit like:  black cherry, blackcurrant, plums and damsons.  On top of that there is the fig and prune plus chocolate.  You hear it being described as having ‘velvety’ tannins, as well.  Now there are many more descriptors that people will get out of Merlot, but that will give you an idea.

Love love love the name of this wine.  We always tell people that when you are enjoying a really nice Merlot you should have the same sensation as the touch of soft velvet on your fingertips.  Why call it “The Velvet Devil”?  Charles says “It makes Merlot sound sexy… because it is!”

He describes the 2009 like this:

“PURE VELVET! Milk chocolate, wild blackberry, baking spice, rose oil…beautifully perfumed Washington in a glass….Velvet Devil? HELL YEAH!”

What about the 2010?

“Classic Merlot aromas of dark cherries, cedar, pip tobacco. Anise, stone and cherry blossoms. Yeah, believe it! Naughty and nice, a true Velvet Devil.”

People think we are nuts when we tell them that one vintage is different than the next.  Yes, it is true that the basics are the same, but the expression… wait a minute, that “expression” bit sounds stuffy, and Charles is far from stuffy.  Let’s just say this:  Every year the wine is going to be a bit different, which is good, because if every year they were exactly the same it would be no fun.  We know you will enjoy each one.  If you don’t believe me, just try them.  You’ll see.

CSPC:                   735856
Winesday Price:

$20.25 (Includes Winesday 10% discount.)

Regular Price:

$22.50

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Winery: Charles & Charles
Location: Washington
Blend: 2009 & 2010: 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 49% Syrah
Tasting: Wednesday, November 23, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Charles & Charles is “a collaboration founded in 2008 between Food & Wine Magazine 2009 Winemaker of the year, Charles Smith (K Vintners, Charles Smith Wines) and Charles Bieler (Three Thieves, BIELER Pere et Fils, Sombra mezcal). The label is an abstract play on the American Flag done by the well loved and historic Nashville, TN poster shop, Hatch Show Print.”  They produce only two wines:  Charles & Charles Rosé, and the Charles & Charles Red

Just to let you know, Richard and I were two of those people who were swirling and sniffing this wine.  We know Charles said to ‘just drink it’, but we couldn’t help it.  It smells incredible.  We knew as soon as we tried it that we would have to include in our Winesday for you.

They describe the 2010 like this:

The wine is still loaded with black fruit lead by currants, violets and blackberry with rich, toasty mocha aromas - all of which carry through to the palate.  A portion of the syrah was whole cluster fermented which adds to the dark brambly flavors.”

CSPC:                   738576
Winesday Price:

$16.65 (Includes Winesday 10% discount.)

Regular Price:

$18.50

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Next week we are hitting Australia and the U.S.A.

Whadda what?  Horchata (or-CHAT-ah), sometimes known as orxata, is a traditional drink from the Spanish speaking world.  However, it depends on which Spanish speaking world you are from, as to what it contains.

What is the origin of the name?  “Legend has is that a young girl once offered a sweet, white drink to the King of Aragon, Jaime I.  “What is that?” he asked the young girl, pleasantly surprised by its flavour.  “It’s tigernut milk” she responded, to which he replied “Aixo no es llet, aixo es or xata” (”That is not milk, that is gold, my pretty one”).  Many attribute the word ‘horchata’ to this appraisal of the drink by the King.”[1]

It can be made with ground almonds, sesame seeds, rice, barley, milk (or cream), water, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, ground cocoa, nutmeg, tiger nuts (chufa), peanuts and even cashews.  Now mind you not all of those ingredients are in one drink, but it can have any combination of those ingredients.  The base can be different, depending on the country in which it is being made.   It used to be a homemade thirst-quencher, but now it can be found pre-made as well.

In Mexico Horchata is quite often made with rice, cinnamon and even vanilla.  Morro seeds (from a coconut sized fruit - pictured left) are the base in El Salvador instead of rice.

In Nicaragua and Honduras, the drink known as Semilla de Jicaro, made from the Jicaro seeds, which are ground up with rice and spices. They add cold milk and sugar in their version.

In Puerto Rico, sesame seeds are combined with either milk or water.

In Venezuela, Chicha is the name used, and the alcoholic one is called Chicha andina.

Then there is Spain.  They claim the origins of this drink.   There they use the chufa (see right), otherwise referred to as earth-almond or tiger nuts.  In fact, they aren’t really nuts at all.  They are tubers from a type of grass.  Depending on the location and growing conditions up to 100 tubers can be cultivated from one plant.[2]

Our drink today is based on the Mexican type of Horchata.  Out of pure curiosity, I called a number of Mexican restaurants in Edmonton to find out who served Horchata (regular or ‘spiked’).  Please forgive me if we missed your restaurant or were not able to get in touch with you.  Here is what I found out.  None of the Mexican restaurants served it at the moment (Although we did hear that an El Salvadorian Restaurant located in Little Italy serves their version).  However, we are giving a shout out to Rob, one of the managers at Julio’s Barrio Mexican Restaurant located at 10452 - 82 Avenue.  He said that they are just in the midst of changing their drinks menu and the Horchata sounded very interesting.  So the next time you visit Julio’s, check to see if it is on the menu yet.

La Tradición Liqueur de Horchata

Producer: LeVecke Corporation
Location: Mira Loma, California
Alcohol: 15%
Tasting: Wednesday, October 12, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

We tried this liqueur back in August and we just knew you would like it, so we wanted to do it for a Winesday.  Locally it is represented by River Valley Beverage Group.

We had the opportunity to speak with Melissa Venglass, who is the Brand Manager for National Brands with LeVecke Corporation.  She said that the brand was launched in 2008 in the United States.  Melissa said that shortly after it was released, the drink was entered into the San Francisco World Spirits Competition where it took home a silver medal.

Although the drink’s roots are in the old world, LeVecke’s liqueur was inspired by the Hispanic culture in the U.S.  The bottle, as well, was designed keeping the traditional Mexican ribbed barrel-shaped bottle in mind.  Of course while the recipe is not to be disclosed, we can tell you that this lovely libation contains almonds, rice, cream, cinnamon and West Indies Rum (yum for rum).

CSPC:     744134
Price:

$20.99

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice.

CHôCô NOiR

Producer: Premium Blend
Location: Hialeah, Florida
Tasting: Wednesday, September 7, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m

CSPC:     744612
Price:

$16.99

For a drink that was launched in the U.S.A. December 2010, ChôCô Noir sure has made a splash.  It has been in Alberta for just a couple of months now and it is making a name for itself here, as well.  In fact, Alberta was the first place in Canada where this “Chocolate Wine” drink was available.  Chocolate, cream (the non-fattening type of course - wink wink - Yah, right!!) and Pinot Noir.

We recently spoke with Henry Santos, the V.P. of Sales at Premium Blend.  They are the producers of this interesting drink.  They have been supplying products to the American market “for 22 years”.  They have a whole line of drinks that are made with a wine base.  In Alberta, however, our first introduction to this producer is the ChôCô Noir.  This product was released in the U.S.A. in December 2010.  Henry told me that at the Los Angeles Wine and Spirits Competition it won Bronze not only for the product itself, but also for a design award.   He also said that at the New York Beverage Challenge it received 82 points.  ‘The Pinot Noir we use in ChôCô Noir comes from Washington State.’  (A place definitely known for their reds.)  The cream… well, the cream is not just any cream.  “It is Wisconsin cream.  American cream”.  The product is 100% made in the U.S.A.

Henry says that it is “primarily an after dinner drink”, but there are some fabulous drink recipes too!  Aside from the ones on the website Henry suggests to ‘heat it up and add a little whipped cream.’  He says that ‘it makes a great desert where you soak the sponge cake and add some whipped cream.’   How about a ‘ChôCô Noir version of Tiramisu’?  Here is just one easy drink recipe to make.

Chocoppuccino

3 oz. Choco Noir

Fill glass with fresh hot coffee

Top with Whipped Cream

Dust with chocolate powder

Henry shared another recipe that is not on the website (Thanks Henry).

CHôCô NOir Colada

3 oz  ChôCô Noir

2 - 3 oz  Piña Colada Mix

1 oz  Rum

Add all ingredients to a blender with ice and blend, pour and enjoy.

How about if we take a trip to Washington next week? We will see you there.

I bet you are wondering what the heck is going on with a headline of ‘Sweet Tea’.  No we haven’t become teetotalers (although I do love a good cuppa).  We are sampling some  ‘sweet tea’ flavoured vodkas this week.  So we thought we would give you the run down on what ‘sweet tea’ is all about.

It is quite simple, actually, it is tea that is sweet.  The end.

Okay, there is a little more to it than that.  It is a drink that is favoured in the southern U.S.A.  It is more a southern tradition, if you will.  A right, almost.   It is the unofficial drink of the south.  You would think that because sweet tea is synonymous with the south, you should probably be able to get it in the northern U.S.A. as well.  Not so much.  It can be had, but as any southerner will tell you, ‘it just ain’t the same’.

We have all heard of Iced Tea, of course.  It is generally made with just black tea and no sugar and then poured over ice.   Sweet Tea has a ton of sugar.  It has been said that almost one-quarter of the drink is sugar.   It can be served either hot or cold.

The way to make really good ‘sweet tea’ is to make sure that you add the sugar or simple syrup when the tea is nice and hot.  It dissolves much better that way.   We have read that some places actually brew the tea in the simple syrup.  Whoa… now that would give you a sugar rush for sure!!   The oldest record of sweet tea goes back to 1879 where a recipe was published in a community cookbook called Housekeeping in Old Virginia.[1]

Here is a little factoid (yawn) for you.  Tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world.  Second only to water.  It only make sense that vodka, known as the world’s party drink, and tea get together.

Sweet Carolina ‘Sweet Tea’

Producer: White Rock Distilleries
Location: Lewiston, Maine
Tasting: Wednesday, August 31, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m

Sweet Carolina Sweet Tea Vodka (70 Proof) combines the finest handcrafted vodka with traditional southern style sweet tea. The result is smooth and refreshing - excellent on the rocks or mixed into a brisk cocktail.”

There are some great recipes on the website link above.  In the meantime, here are a couple to whet your whistle:

Fiddlee Dee Tea

2 oz. Sweet Carolina Sweet Tea Flavored Vodka

2 oz. orange juice

2 oz. club soda

Mix in a glass filled with ice and garnish with an orange slice

Cranberry Tea Cocktail

2 oz. Sweet Carolina Sweet Tea Flavored Vodka

2 oz. cranberry juice

2 oz. club soda

Mix in a glass filled with ice and garnish with an orange slice.

CSPC:     738295
Price:

$27.99

*Price correct at time of printing. Price subject to change without notice

Sweet Carolina Raspberry Sweet Tea

Producer: White Rock Distilleries
Location: Lewiston, Maine
Tasting: Wednesday, August 31, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

It is no secret that Raspberries are one of my favourite types of fruit.  Just ask Richard.  So out of all the flavours to choose from, you can probably see why we chose the Raspberry flavoured sweet tea.

Here are a couple of recipes for you to enjoy with this fun flavour:

Raspberry Rocket

2 oz. Sweet Carolina Raspberry Sweet Tea Flavored Vodka

4 oz. club soda

Splash cranberry juice

Mix in a glass filled with ice and garnish with a lime wedge

Sweet Raspberry Cola

2 oz. Sweet Carolina Raspberry Sweet Tea Flavored Vodka

3 oz. cola

Mix in a glass filled with ice and garnish with a lemon slice

CSPC:     738300
Price:

$27.99

*Price correct at time of printing. Price subject to change without notice

Chocolate is the flavour for next week.  Now how can you possible resist that?!

Style: Saison
ABV: 7.6%
Presentation: Single 750 ml brown bottle
Brewery: Brooklyn Brewery
Country: Brooklyn, New York, U.S.A.

KANPAI! w/ Jeff Werstiuk

Boy oh boy, the Brooklyn Brewery really went and did it this time. They went and made a special edition beer that not only caught me by surprise, but stole my heart as well. On that note I’ll try to be remotely objective with the information I share with you about their Sorachi Ace Ale, but I make no promises….

If you’ve never tried a Saison before, then consider this one on the milder end of the spectrum, although still crafted with remarkable finesse. In a blind tasting it would strike me more as a Tripel or a Belgian Strong Pale Ale, but the brewery’s description of it as an “unfiltered golden farmhouse ale” doesn’t stray too far from the mark.

While this magical beer was first only available on tap as part of the Brooklyn Brewery’s Brewmaster’s Reserve Series, it is fortunate for us that they decided to switch it over to a more accessible bottle-only availability in 2010. Adding an extra dimension to the overall quality of this version that we now have access to is the full refermentation that takes place in the bottle with the addition of Champagne yeast. Over time this helps to develop some sweet nuances, a dry finish, along with an effervescent mouthfeel.

However the true star of the show is no secret at all, but lies in the name of this beer itself. It’s the deft use of single varietal Sorachi Ace hops that lend their unique character to the overall flavour. This new hybrid style of hop was originally developed by Sapporo in Japan back in 1988, and is a cross between British Brewer’s Gold hops and Czech Saaz hops. The result is a hop that provides an aroma and flavour of lemon citrus. On top of that this hop is fairly rare these days, and the Brooklyn Brewery gets their entire supply from a lone hop farm in Oregon. Talk about exclusive!

Even better, let’s talk about what this delightful ale has in store for you. Before you pop the cork on this one it’s a good idea to pick out the proper glassware. Personally I would choose stemware for this one: a tulip glass if you have one, otherwise a snifter or an oversized wine glass. Chilled would also be the prime way to serve this Saison, just not iced cold.

What greets you in the glass is a cloudy yet bright yellow hue, crowned with a massive tight rocky white head with excellent retention. The aroma is surprisingly clean for the style, exhibiting notes of crisp lemon zest and tangerine, along with dry grains, and some dry spicy and grassy hops. That clean character carries over into the flavour, with crisp grainy wheat up front blended with lemon zest, light citrus fruits throughout the middle, with mild leafy and dry spicy hops on the finish. This is all delivered by a medium-bodied mouthfeel that starts off crisp and finishes dry, with mild effervescent carbonation throughout.

The Brooklyn Brewery suggests pairing their Sorachi Ace Ale with seafood or BBQ. I certainly agree with the seafood angle, here’s a beer that can complement some sole with lemon butter amazingly, as well as cut through the sauce at the same time. The same goes for a bowl of coconut curried prawns. This is a bottle also ideal to pair with an elegant dinner of crab or lobster. Not only can you serve it along with a platter of mussels, but this Saison can be used to steam them as well. If seafood isn’t your thing, then consider some spicy sausage, either German or Italian styles, plus don’t forget Spanish chorizo. Consider preparing the sausage along with pasta and an herbed tomato sauce. Or if you don’t feel like turning on the stove serve this Sorachi Ace ale with a variety of spicy cured meats on a charcuterie platter along with some Asiago, Parmesan, Colby and Gorgonzola cheeses.

The next steps in the cooler:

From This Brewery:
Brooklyn Pennant Ale ‘55
Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout
Brooklyn Brown Ale
Brooklyn East India Pale Ale
Brooklyn Lager
Brooklyn Local 2
Brooklyn Monster Ale
Brooklyn Pilsner
Brooklyner Weiss

In-Style:
Saison Dupont
Le Merle

Lateral Steps:
Duvel
Chimay White
Tripel Karmeliet
Pauwel Kwak
Dominus Vobiscum Blanche
Unibroue Don de Dieu
Delirium Tremens

Very recently we heard someone say “I had no idea that they even made wine in Oregon.”  They not only make wine in Oregon, they make damn fine wine in Oregon.If they are known for one grape, it would have to be Pinot Noir.  Pinot Gris isn’t too far behind, however.   There are a number of producers who make some pretty awesome Pinot Noir.  We are showing our stripes, aren’t we!  I have been a big Burgundy fan for many decades.  However, the very first Pinot Noir that I thoroughly enjoyed from outside of Burgundy, was from Oregon.  We see both new world and old world styles coming from this state.

The first person to plant vines in the Willamette (rhymes with damn it) Valley was a gentleman named David Lett (He was also known as Papa Pinot).  That was in 1966.  Just 9 years later, he was put on the map when one of his wines was named in the Top Ten at the Wine Olympics.  That was the start of something beautiful.

Today there are over 300 wineries that are producing 72 varieties.  Of those 300 wineries, there are some who have their roots in Burgundy, France.  Even they can see what a special place Oregon is for Pinot Noir.  Yes Oregon is known for their Pinot Noir, but even more than that, Oregon is known for its greening of the wine industry.  Well, that is what we like to call it.  There are a number of producers that are organic, sustainable, biodynamic, Salmon Safe, Leeds Certified and on and on.  In our little world, we don’t see a darn thing wrong with being kinder to the place we live.  Now you may not follow it, or believe in it, or even see any difference that it makes.  That is ok.  The producers following this path obviously see a benefit.  Otherwise they wouldn’t do it.  This leads us into this week’s winery.  The wonderful SokolBlosser.  We have written about them previously for Winesday.

“We feel a sense of social responsibility in conducting our business and our lives the way we do. This is the only way we could imagine doing it. Not only are our methods healthier for the soil, the vines, and those of us who work in the vineyard, they also lead to better wines.” (Susan SokolBlosser, Founder)  So I guess that really says it all and we don’t have to write any more.  Actually this is just a start.

We recently had the pleasure of meeting Michael Brown from SokolBlosser, when he was here in Edmonton.  When we talk about the SokolBlosser family, Michael is part of that family.  Not by blood or marriage, but because he truly loves this place and the people.  You can see it when he is talking about the people, the land and everything about it.  “These people are in it for the long run”.   “This family takes it seriously.  They are open to learning.  They value the people.”  When it comes to buying land for vineyards he says that they “would only buy the right land, not just any land.”  The Drouhin winery (originally from Burgundy) is located right next door to SokolBlosser.  He talked about now close knit the winemaking family is in Oregon.  “They have a pioneering spirit.  A willingness to learn.”

The SokolBlosser family (which includes the people who work at the winery) not only write about this philosophy, they live it.  They have been listed as one of the top 100 companies to work for in Oregon; they were the first Leeds certified winery in the U.S.A.; they were the first winery to be certified as Salmon Safe; a mere 8 years after starting the winery, they had 6 wines that received medals in the International Wine and Spirits Competition in London; plus many more…  The most import thing of all?  They make some great wine and we get to try two new ones this week.

Delinea 300 Pinot Noir

Winery: SokolBlosser
Vintage: 2008
Location: Willamette Valley, Oregon, U.S.A.
Blend: 100% Pinot Noir
Tasting: Wednesday, July 6, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m

SokolBlosser call this their entry level Pinot Noir.  We call it delicious.  It is such an easy drinking Pinot Noir with lots of flavour that will last.  It won’t last in the glass, however.  Believe us, we have tried!  Big Pinot Noir fans here, as you can tell.  The first weekend that we featured this wine at a tasting people thoroughly enjoyed it.  This is such a food friendly wine.  Lamb, tuna, salmon, pork, beef and more.  We have a few interesting recipes for you this week.  You will have to let us know what you think.

Tasting notes:

“This wine will standup to bold flavors, yet is delicate and elegant - soft, harmonious, and shows layers of complexity. flavors and aromas are of black cherry, raspberry and our distinctive jory soil forest floor earthiness.”

Food Pairing:

Spicy Seared Ahi Tuna; Grilled Salmon Plank; Rack of Lamb with Red Currant Wine Sauce;

CSPC:     740031
Price:

$25.99 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

SokolBlosser Rosé of Pinot Noir

Winery: SokolBlosser
Vintage: 2010
Location: Willamette Valley
Blend: 100% Pinot Noir
Tasting: Wednesday, July 6, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

We have to thank our friend Ian for putting the new vintage of the Rosé in our hands, well, actually in our mouths, but you know what we mean.  We have enjoyed the SokolBlosser Rosé a number of times, but we must say this vintage is a winner.  It is fun and flavourful and lots of fruit. The three ‘F’s. I don’t believe there has been one person to whom we have suggested this wine who hasn’t liked it.  What’s not to like!  We are both confessed Rosé-aholics.  When you find a good one you want to tell everyone about it.  That is the way it is with this wine.  When Richard and I wrote our exams in May, we went to a ‘thank God it is over’ party and we brought this wine.  Surprise surprise it found more fans.  That is the way it has been.

Winemaker Notes:

“Created by the true rosé method (by gently pressing only red grapes, notby blending red and white juice or wine), this classic dry rosé is crisp, vibrant, and refreshing.The extended, slow, cool fermentation has preserved the intense fruitiness and delicate floral aromas, and the absence of a malolactic fermentation has retained the firm acidity and wonderfully intriguing minerality.”

Food Pairing:

Scallop Ceviche; Fruit Salad; …just in a glass

CSPC:     718168
Price:

$17.99 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Boy do we have a treat for you for next week.  Born of Italian tradition, but made in Canada.  And it is a first for Winesday.

Livermore, California

You can’t think of American wine without thinking about California.  They go hand in hand like Icewine and Canada or Pinot Noir and Burgundy.  There are many California regions that people are familiar with like Napa Valley and Sonoma County, but there is so much more to California than that.  Today we are going to visit Livermore, which is located just east of San Francisco.  It is home to over 40 wineries.

In the late 18^th century this valley was used as grazing lands for cattle and sheep.  Shortly after that, the Mexican land grants began and one such land grant was given to a Mexican rancher of English birth named Robert Livermore (you can see where this is going). Robert’s ranch was so large that it comprised much of what is today the main townsite of Livermore.  There is no doubt that Robert loved the cattle and sheep ranching, but he also loved viticulture and horticulture.  In the mid 1800’s he planted the first vineyards and orchards in this region.  Unfortunately he passed away in 1858.  The town of Livermore was given its name less than a quarter of a century later.[1]

With a Mediterranean climate, it is no wonder that people came from all over, including Italy.  The Italians were noted for making a contribution to forming the wineries in the area.  Then there was C.H. Wente, James Concannon and Charles Wetmore who founded their wineries in the late 19^th century.  James Concannon is going to be our subject today.

So the Italians, among many others, cametohis beautiful place.  ‘Concannon’ doesn’t sound too Italian, though.  James Concannon was from the Emerald Isle… Ireland.  The same country that half of my ancestors called home.  He believed that the rocky soils of Livermore would produce great wine.  “He established Concannon as a founding family of California wine.”[2]There are a lot of ‘firsts’ when it comes to the Concannon family.  They were the first successful winery started by an Irish Immigrant.  They were one of the first California wineries to produce ‘Bordeaux style’ wines.  51 years ago they hired the first professional female winemaker.  50 years ago they were the first winery in the U.S.A. to plant Petite Sirah.  That is a pretty impressive list.  Oh and I forgot another one.  They also “pioneered the creation of the widely adopted Cabernet Sauvignon clones 7, 8 and 11, also known as the Concannon clones, now planted in many of Napa’s most prestigious vineyards.”

“We have embraced sustainable vineyard practices and re-rooted historic clones in our estate vineyards. We utilize state-of-the-art technology in our winery to ensure quality. With a focus on renewable energy, we have installed solar panels on 80% of our winery’s roof.  All of these efforts are designed with one goal in mind, to create extraordinary wines that would make James Concannon proud.”[3]

As we mentioned earlier, Concannon was the first home to Petite Sirah in the United States.  They will be celebrating the 50^th anniversary of making Petite Sirah this year.  (a.k.a. Petite Syrah, Petit Syrah, Petit Sirah, Durif)Perfect time for a tasting.  We’ll do the Merlot first and then head to the Petite Sirah.

Concannon Merlot

Winery: Concannon Vineyard
Location: Central Coast, California, U.S.A.
Blend: Merlot
Tasting: Wednesday, June 8, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m

“For nearly 125 years, our winery has chosen grapes harvested in California’s diverse Central Coast region. We carefully select the most ideal vineyards for growing each variety. We then craft the expressive fruit into wines that you will remember long after you finish the last sip.”

California’s Central Coast covers a large areathat stretchesdown the Pacific Coast for 250 miles from San Francisco Bay all the way to Santa Barbara.  This region produces 15% of California’s winegrapes and is home to in excess of 350 wineries including the ConcannonVineryard in Livermore.  This region gets an influence from the ocean, the bays, the mountains and valleys. On average the days are warm and the evenings are a bit on the cool side.

The winemaker has a few words to say about this wine:  “The 2007 Merlot, Selected Vineyards is a luscious wine with soft edges and rich flavors. Its’ lovely magenta hue introducesripe fruit flavors of cherry, currant and plum. Warm toasty oakon the nose accompanies the red fruit to the long mid-palateand soft yet ample tannins lead to a smooth finish.”

Food Pairing:

Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers;Beer Barbequed Chicken; Barbequed Pork Sandwiches

CSPC:     741483
Price:

$13.99 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Concannon Conservancy Petite Sirah

Winery: Concannon Winery
Location: Livermore, California, U.S.A.
Blend: 100% Petite Sirah
Tasting: Wednesday, June 8, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

The name on this particular release from Concannon, “Conservancy,” is a nod to the efforts the winery has made to protect their vineyards from urban sprawl.  In 1996, Concannon was the first Livermore Valley vineyard to place its land into a permanent conservation easement.  Other vineyards have since followed suit to ensure that urbanization doesn’t threaten Livermore Valley as a wine producing region.  Yeah Concannon!

For almost a decade there has been an annual Petite Sirah Symposium.  This year, the ninth annual, will be held a Concannon Vineyard on July 26, 2011.  All the people in the know will gather to discuss the grape variety.  They talk about growing, winemaking and even marketing.  I have discovered that these people have a real passion, not only for winemaking, but for Petite Sirah in particular.

What does the winemaker have to say about this one?  “The 2007 Petite Sirah, Conservancy has fantastic depth andcharacter. It exhibits a rich nose of fresh berry fruit, and theflavorful palate shows blackberries, chocolate, mocha andplums. Subtle notes of molasses, cedarwood, and ripemulberries are complemented by soft, creamy oak tones and asmooth, silky finish.

Food Pairing:

Grilled Lamb Chops; French Onion Beef Tenderloin for Two;

CSPC:     741969
Price:

$18.99 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

New Zealand.  We haven’t been there for a while.  Let’s see what’s up down there.

[2]Concannon Website

[3]Concannon Website

What’s new in the Don Sebastiani & Sons winery? Well, in this case we should say ‘what is not so new?’.  Mind you the vintages are new, but Pepperwood Grove was one of the first wines that DS&S (Don Sebastiani & Sons) had in their portfolio a decade ago.  The wines back then were known for good taste and good value.  That hasn’t changed.

We last visited Don Sebastiani & Sons in July 2010, so it is about time that we made a trip back.  Since we last talked about this family, Don Sebastiani’s father was inducted into the 2011 Vintner’s Hall of Fame.  August would have been very proud.

Négociant is the term used to describe this company.  Sounds French, and it is.  Basically a Négociant is a wine merchant who purchases grapes etc from growers and then produce the wine under their own name.  It is good for the farmers, because they sell their crop and it is good for the company so that they can get the best for their label (s). In this particular case, the grapes come from different areas of California.   Today we are trying two of the Pepperwood family.

Pepperwood Grove Syrah

Winery: Don Sebastiani & Sons
Location: Sonoma, California, U.S.A.
Blend: Syrah
Tasting: Wednesday, April 27, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m

The winery describes this wine: ”This Syrah is a deep red-violet color, with expressive aromas of blueberry pie, jammy fig and bramble, and a hint of that classic pepper and leather syrah character. Juicy on the palate, blueberry and tart cherry flavors mingle with tobacco leaf and red currant. Tart fruit is well-balanced with chewy, soft tannins and dark secondary flavors, finishing powerfully with a touch of espresso and lingering aromatics. The depth and character of this Syrah make it an excellent every-day wine for the wine enthusiast.

“The first wine made by Don Sebastiani & Sons, Pepperwood Grove represents old Sonoma to the Sebastiani Family. While every winemaking region has its own story, they all share a common way of life. Today, we source grapes from all over the world to find the best wine at the best price in order to spread that sense of place with families everywhere.”

Food Pairing:

Roasted Venison Stew with Parsnips and Carrots;  Smoky Bacon Pasta Sauce

CSPC:     566539
Price:

$14.50 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Pepperwood Viognier

Winery: Don Sebastiani & Sons
Location: Sonoma, California, U.S.A.
Blend: Viognier
Tasting: Wednesday, April 27, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

“Pale straw color with aromas of lemon zest and jasmine with a hint of pink grapefruit. The palate is full with green apple, light cinnamon & clove flavors which underscore the ripe apricot and peach nectar and finishes with honeyed tropical notes.”  That is how winemaker Greg Kitchens describes this wine.  We have visited with Viognier in the past a few times and I am sure we will visit with this grape again.  It is very food friendly… pairing with lightly spiced Thai food.  It is hard to believe that a mere 45 years ago in the Rhône Valley in France, there were only 8 hectares of Viognier vines.  Of course today there is quite a bit more than that.  In California the grape has gained in popularity.  It is known as an aromatic grape variety and can rival Chardonnay for its weight and food pairing.  Come by and try this fun wine and try one of the recipes below.

Food Pairing:

Green Curry Chicken; Chicken Tetrazzini; Spicy Tuna Roll

CSPC:     575449
Price:

$13.99 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

“Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Chile, Chile, Chile.  We are heading off to see Diablo next week!  Come join us.