Sometimes out of tragedy something beautiful is born and this is true for Gioia Wines. While driving home one evening from my day job I stopped in a wine shop that I’d seen several times before but had never explored. When I walked in I was amazed at the rows and rows of interesting bottles of wines. I was greeted immediately and there began my incredible experience at Bernard’s Wine Gallery in Calabasas, California. One of the owners, Cynthia Rosenson, guided me around the shop introducing me to many of the unique and sometimes even rare wines they carry.

After learning I was a fan of red zinfandels, Cynthia immediately pointed out Gioia (Italian for joy). Upon first glance, the label struck me as beautiful artwork. When I mentioned that to Cynthia she began to tell me the story of how this wine came into being. The maker of Gioia Wines is Teri Love. Her son, Tyler, had study in Italy and developed a very strong passion for wines. Unfortunately when Tyler returned to the States he and his best friend were tragically killed in a motorcycle accident on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Malibu.

It was after the lost of her son (the joy of her life) that she decided to do something to memorialize him. From this tragedy Gioia Wines was born and the label on all of the Gioia wine bottles is a beautiful symbol expressing the love for Teri continues to feel for son. There is a heart (for the name Love), a crown because Tyler was her prince, Tyler’s angel wings as Teri believes they appear and a beautiful golden square with the name of the wine in the middle representing her golden child.

Upon hearing this incredible story, I was inclined to buy the wine, if for no other reason, to support Teri in her efforts to keep the memory of her son alive. So I purchased a bottle. A few weeks later, prior to my trip to Europe, I decided to try the Gioia Zinfandel. I was completely blown away. First your nose is invited in by a floral parade including the beautiful scent of rose oil. Next your palate springs to life as the flavors of berries and figs roll over your tongue giving way to the secret hint of vanilla that caresses the back of your tongue. Gioia’s Zinfandel is uncharacteristic to most zinfandels, which can be a bit robust and peppery. The texture is creamy and light. Its silky, smooth finish embodies its name because it is a “joy” to drink.

Gioia Wines come in five varietals, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Syrah, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon and retail for about $20.00. Teri wanted to celebrate the life of her son and these wines are definitely a special celebration to his life and one of his loves – good wine.

En Primeur or wine futures: Purchasing wine before it is bottled.

Wine futures…no it is not a movie about purchasing wine in the space age, but instead it is a potential investment opportunity for the avid wine speculator.  En Primeur also known as “wine futures” is actually the act of purchasing wine that has been made but not yet bottled. Although this is occurring in many regions today, including California and Italy, en primeur is a specialty of Bordeaux (region in France). Each April, Bordeaux hosts tastings for investors, merchants, collectors, etc. who are interested in purchasing wines en primeur.

Like any investment there are some pros and cons with purchasing wines en primeur.

Pros:

• Consumers can secure wines that may have very limited quantities and may be difficult to obtained after they are released.
• Purchasing a wine en primeur or as wine futures will be cheaper than purchasing once it is released to the public.
• There is opportunity to gain wines from great vintages like Bordeaux 2000.
• Wines can be obtained in less common formats like halves, magnums, and so on.

Cons:

• Payment is required at least a year to 18 months prior to the official release of the vintage.
• What you taste and pay for could be totally different from what you actually received once the bottled version has been released.
• You have to wait at least two years to receive your wine.
• You could be required to carry insurance and pay storage fees if you aren’t keeping the wine on your on property.

Before you set out to invest in wine via the en primeur or wine futures route do your research. As with any investment it can be a gamble (no pun intended) and you surely want to be well versed. Choose a reputable merchant to work with. Other helpful tips regarding en primeur or wine futures can be found at decanter.com. Check them out and happy drinking!

A subset of the Quivira Vineyards in the world-renowned Dry Creek Valley in Sonoma, California, Steelhead Wines are a tribute to the restoration of the Steelhead domain in Wine Creek, a tributary of Dry Creek River that runs through the estate. Steelhead Wines along with Quivira Vineyards have partnered with Trouts Unlimited as well as other organization to restore the spawning ground of the Steelhead trout. Through their efforts the trout have returned to the creek bed every spring.

Through this effort Steelhead Wines were born.  Steelhead Wine is the first wine dedicated to the conservation of fisheries. Currently when you  purchase  either Steelhead Vineyards Zinfandel or Sauvignon Blanc a portion of the proceeds go to Trout Unlimited restoration projects. I have not tried the Sauvignon Blanc but have tasted the Zinfandel. I loved it so much that I went online to find out where I could buy it locally. I was shocked but quite pleased to find it at my local Beverages & More store.

The Steelhead Zinfandel is a great wine. Filled with great flavors this wine is made of 84% Zinfandel and 16% Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah, & Carignane. It’s earthy blackberry and black pepper flavor leaves you with a feeling of bliss in your mouth and gives you a great hint of a Dry Creek wine in its finish.

This wine is a must do not just because of the taste but because of the wonderful cause it supports.  Please watch the video below courtesy of YouTube to see the trout returning in the spring.

Find out where you can purchase this wine in your area. Not only will you be getting a good bottle of wine but you will also be helping to maintain much needed fisheries in Sonoma.

And remember as always…drink responsibly.

How many of you out there remember the episode of “The Brady Bunch” (if not click on Brady Bunch title) where Jan was frustrated about being the middle sister. In that episode she decided to start to wear a hideous black wig to differentiate herself from her popular older sister Marcia and her sweet, cute baby sister, Cindy. According to Jan, she felt as if she were invisible because she was the blond middle sister. It seems that a lot of middle sisters across the world often feel as if they are invisible when compared to their older and younger siblings.

Middle sisters, fret no more for you have been recognized and immortalized in one of the most special ways possible. You now have your own catalogue of wines named especially for you. I discovered these little gems this past weekend. They are tasty and reasonably priced and you will get two treats for the price of one in this blog as I introduce you to Smarty Pants and Forever Cool.

Middle Sister Wine are produced and bottled by Middle Sister in Santa Rosa, California. There are six exciting flavors, all with distinct personalities. Middle Sister wines have fun names like Drama Queen Pinot Grigio, Smarty Pants Chardonnay, and Forever Cool Merlot.  There is also Rebel Red, Wicked White and Mischief Maker Cabernet Sauvignon. Click on the link at the beginning of this paragraph to experience their exciting website. I had so much fun checking it out. There is a quiz you can take to determine which Middle Sister wine personality fits yours. I took it and wasn’t surprised at all with my results. See my results posted below…

“You’re a Drama Queen. Nobody does quite like you do. You like to make an entrance. You know the best color/cut/face/eyebrow/ wax lady. You are friends with the bartender, the chef, the kid who started Face Book and the mayor. You’re a social butterfly. When it’s time to land, it’s poolside in South Beach with a glass of Middle Sister Drama Queen Pinot Grigio. And a cabana boy.”

It’s funny because when I was in the store trying to decide which ones of theses wines to purchase I immediately pick up the Drama Queen but  decided to put it back to try the Smarty Pants Chard and the Forever Cool Merlot first. I was pleasantly surprised at both. The Smarty Pants Chardonnay is a blend of Chardonnay (76%) and a mixture of other white grapes(24%). You won’t find the woodsy taste in this bottle as you do with many chards. However, there is crisp smells of lemon and honeysuckle as well as the taste of refreshing citrus and pear on the tongue. Each of the Middle Sister wines has a story on the back label and chard story is below…

Middle Sister Smarty Pants Chardonnay

“Some girls are born beautiful. Some girls are born rich.  And some girls are born smart. The smart girls grow up and use their brains to make money to buy great clothes and travel abroad and throw dinner parties…where they serve chardonnay that they didn’t spend a fortune on…in wine glasses brought home from their last trip to Paris. Some girls are born smart. And we think they’re the luckiest girls of all.”

The other wine we tasted was the Forever Cool Merlot. This is a successful blend of Merlot (94%) and Malbec (4%). Smells of fresh raspberries, blackberries and vanilla give way to the taste of luscious berries with a finish of dark chocolate. Forever Cool’s back label story is found below…

Middle Sister Forever Cool Merlot

“The Age of Aquarius has come and gone, but some things never go out of style. Like flowers, peace and a nice glass of Merlot. Let’s take a moment to toast the sisters who march on to the beat of a different drummer. Nobody stays forever young. But you will always be forever cool. And for that, we salute you. Sip on!”

Now that I’ve tried the chard and merlot I must go back and pick up the Drama Queen Pinot Grigio. By the way did I tell you I find this hidden gems at Target??? That is right Target and the cost was only $10.99 a bottle.

Whether you are a middle sister or not you really should give these wines a try. They are just perfect for informal gatherings with friends and family. They go well with a variety of foods including Portobello mushroom burgers, grilled chicken caesar and corn chowder.

Go to their website and browse around. Don’t forget to take the quiz to see which middle sister you are most like. Finally as always please remember to drink responsibly.

Rideau 2006 Chateau Duplantier Cuvee

As I am writing this I am finishing a delicious glass of one of Rideau’s finest wines…2006 Chateau Duplantier Cuvee. I am almost speechless when it comes to this wine because it is like drinking a glass of liquid heaven. It is not only exquisite but sexy as well. Lets start with the sexy name…Duplantier, which is the owner’s (Iris Rideau) maiden name. The name immediately transports you to the romantic countryside of France.

Next is the aromatic fragrance of warm spice that lingers in this California Rhone-style wine. It wafts over your nose causing your salivary glands to go into overdrive.  Finally after taking your first sip of this elixir, you will be delighted to taste the soft, dark cherries and ripe raspberry flavors that take control of your tongue while the smooth velvety texture caresses the back of your throat. The finish on this wine is one of pure silk. A blend of Syrah, Mourvedre, Grenache & Petite Sirah, this wine is elegant enough to be served at the grandest of functions.

The unfortunate thing about this wine is that you can only get it from the Rideau Vineyards in Solvang, CA. However, you can visit their website and order it online. The cost of this wine is about $50.00 a bottle but is worth every penny. If you are in California and feel like taking a drive you should definitely stop by and visit the Rideau Vineyards. The landscape is lush and the ambience reminds you of the jazzy New Orleans French Quarter. Besides delicious wines you can also indulge in the fantastic gourmet cuisine while listening to great live music.

To get a peek at the gem that is Rideau please check out the video below:

At most celebratory events the drink of choice is “champagne”. However, what most people consider champagne may not really be that at all. Sparkling wine and champagne are pretty much the same but there is a subtle difference. You see, in order for the sparkling bubbly to really bear the name “champagne” it must come from the Champagne region of France and undergo a particular method of processing called Methode Champenoise.

All over the world different versions of sparkling wines are produced. Some are of extremely good quality and some are cheap imitations made from inferior grapes. These are the ones that usually give drinkers headaches, causing them to think they really don’t like champagne. True champagne and good quality sparkling wines don’t usually have this type of an affect. The two primary grapes used to make sparkling wines in France and in most of the New World are chardonnay and pinot noir. Again, the traditional process called Methode Champenoise makes true French Champagne. This process requires that grapes be harvested at low sugar content levels. This is done for two reasons: (1) to obtain a lower alcohol level during fermentation of the base wine because a second fermentation process (which creates a natural carbonation) will also occur creating more alcohol and (2) to obtain a higher acidity level & lower pH causing the wine to have greater longevity as well as a crispness.

Foam on Champagne is called "Mousse"

Now I know that some of you are saying well there are some sparkling wines made in the United States that have the name “champagne” on the label. That is correct but there is a good explanation for this and quite an interesting story. In 1919, the Treaty of Versailles was signed to end World War 1. Included in the treaty were limits on the use of the word “champagne”. However, during this time the U.S. was in the middle of the prohibition so they didn’t ratify or sign the treaty. This caused a gap and many producers decided to call their sparkling wine “champagne” even though the French frowned it upon.

In 2006, though, the U.S. and the European Union signed a wine trade agreement. During this time the issue about champagne resurfaced. The U.S. finally agreed to not allow any new producers of sparkling wine called their product “champagne”. Producers were also not allowed to use other names like Burgundy, Chablis, Port and Chianti. However, if you had used these names prior to the 2006 agreement, you could continue using them on your label. That is why today we still see this on some wine labels.

We have also seen French winemakers seek out opportunities and expansion in the New World. A very well known champagne producer, Moët & Chandon of Champagne, France stumbled upon and purchased an Abbey where a French monk had made a discovery of a sparkling wine. The monk researched the process of how this wine was made and ultimately made some significant contributions which are still used today. This monk was none other than Dom Pérignon for whom one of the best brands of champagne is named. Moët & Chandon expanded to the U.S. in 1973 and eventually created Domaine Chandon in Yountville, California. Domaine Chandon is the producer of great sparkling wines.

Sparkling wines can also be found in other countries. Below are a list of countries and the names their sparkling wines are known as:

• Italy – Spumante
• Spain – Cava
• South Africa – Cap Classique
• Germany – Sekt

Some popular brands of champagnes and sparkling wines include:

Champagnes

• Dom Pérignon
• Louis Roederer Cristal
• Moët & Chandon – White Star
• Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label
• Pol Roger White Foil
• Bollinger’s Special Cuvée

Sparkling Wines

• Montana Chardonnay Pinot Noir Brut Cuvée
• Roederer Estate Quartet Brut
• Castillo Perelada Brut Reserva
• Presecco Veneto Extra Dry
• Domaine Chandon Brut Classic
• Domaine Chandon Reserve Pinot Noir

No matter what the name sparkling wines are fun and exciting to drink. They continue to make any occasion festive and joyous. So for your next party or special event go out and pick up a bottle of champagne, sparkling wine or just plain old bubbly.

Map of the Champagne-Ardenne Region of France

A bit of history…

• It is believed that grapes were first cultivated in the region between the Black and Caspian Seas (near northern Iran) as early as 6000 B.C.
• Grape seeds were found in Switzerland and Italy which dated 4000 B.C.
• The Phoenicians traders brought grapes to Egypt in 3000 B.C.
• Viticulture or the cultivation of grapes spread to Greece in 2000 B.C. and then on to Italy, Sicily and North Africal in 1000 B.C.

Variety of Grapes

Today…

There are hundreds of grape varieties produced worldwide today. Of these hundreds of varieties only a small portion of these are are used for wine production. Other varieties are based on table, juice and raisin production. Table grapes (those that we eat) differ from wine grapes in that they have a lower sugar content and are more flavorful. These grapes take about 8 to 10 weeks to mature and the majority of them don’t do well in wine production. The exception to that would be the Muscat grape which is a table grape as well as successful wine grape. Wine grapes tend to be more aromatic with a higher skin to pulp ratio than table grapes. They also have a higher sugar content which lends itself to greater triumph in the fermentation process.

White Wine Grapes

There are some classics when it comes to white wine grapes:

Chardonnay Grape

Chardonnay – This is probably the most famous of all white wine grapes. This fruit is originally from Burgundy. Its adaptability, however, makes it easy to grow in a variety of places including Mendoza, Napa Valley and the Barossa Valley. Winemakers enjoy working with this grape because it is so pliant. They can tailor it to the demands of the market.  Key flavors of this grape include butter, peachy, toasty, vanilla and walnut flavor. 

Sauvignon Blanc Grape

Sauvignon Blanc – This is one of the most distinctive white grapes because of its stimulating high acidity and its fresh, grassy aroma. This grape originated in the Loire Valley of France (around Sancerre and Pouilly-Fume). However, towards the latter part of the 1980′s, sauvignon blanc wines from Malborough, New Zealand started making a name for themselves. Sauvignon blanc from the Loire Valley often appears smoky in character but the Malborough sauvignon blancs are fruity, with incredible intensity and clarity. Key flavors of this grape include cut grass, flint, currant leaves or gooseberries.

Riesling Grape

Riesling – This grape originated in Germany but has since been successfully cultivated in Australia, New Zealand, California and Canada. Reislings are fruity and light. They range sweetness from bone-dry to extremely sweet. Their alcohol content also ranges from 8 percent or less in the Germany wines to about 14 percent in Australian wines. Key flavors included citrus (specifically lime), fresh apple, floral hints, honey and other fruits like apricot and peaches.

Other great white wine grapes that may not be as common to novice include:

Chenin Blanc Grape

Chenin Blanc – One of the least popular of the French varieties this grape, if not handled appropriately or if unripe, can produce some of the tartest and nastiest wine. However, when handled and used appropriately this grape can be used in a variety of styles including sweet, bone-dry and even sparkling wines. It originates from Anjou-Touraine in the Loire Valley. Key flavors include floral, straw and honey flavors.

Gewurztraminer Grape

Gewurztraminer – This grape has a unique pink color and produces a full-bodied, golden yellow wine with a slightly oily texture. It’s aroma is of unforgettable rose petals, lychee or ginger. This wine is usually very easy for a novice (after the initial experience) to recognize because of it’s dark color and powerful aroma. This grape is grown in Germany, Italy, Austria, Switzerland and Alsace. It can also be find in Washington state and Oregon as well as New Zealand. 

Pinot Gris/Grigio, Semillon, and Viognier are also white grapes that make some great wines and that a worth you looking further into. 

Red Wine Grapes

Some of the classics include:

Cabernet Sauvignon Grape

Cabernet Sauvignon – This is to red wine what chardonnay is to white. This grape originated in Bordeaux but has been planted and successfully cultivated in California, Chile, Australia, Argentina, South Africa, Vin de Pays d’Oc region (France), Tuscany and even Romania. These are just a few of the places this thick-skinned, dark blue grape can be found. This grape is very adaptable, however, it will not mature fully in climates that are really cold. It, also, will not flourish in extremely hot environments. Key flavors are chocolate, mint, and black currant. It also takes on the flavors of the oak barrel while it’s aging, producing additional flavors of vanilla and toast.

Pinot Noir Grape

Pinot Noir – This grape can either be the best thing that has happened to a winemaker or the worst. Pinot noir grapes are very finicky about their climate, soil and the way it is handled. However, if all conditions are optimal this grape can produce a wondeful wine that is low in tannins and acidity. The grape originates from Burgundy and is now being grown California, Oregon, New Zealand and Australia with very favorable outcome. Key flavors for pinot noir include roses, violets, raspberries, strawberries and truffles. This grape works well in French oak but not in American oak. 

Syrah/Shiraz Grape

Syrah/Shiraz – This grape is the king of producing deep, dark, full-bodied, spicy wines. It originates in the northern Rhone Valley, however, in Australia, huge plantings of shiraz are found. This grape produces some expensive, top-of-the line wines. However, in some places like Australia it is served as an everyday wine. Key flavors in northern Rhone tend to be of blackberries, black currants and raspberries). In Australia, the key flavors include an exotic spicy, chocolaty element. 

Merlot Grape

Merlot – This grape got a bad reputation in the movie “Sideways”. It’s unfortunate, too, because there are some very delicious merlots out there. It is similar to cabernet sauvignon but not as potent. It has a lusher, softer approach. It enjoys aging in oak and produces a plummy flavor. This grape has been widely planted in Bordeaux but does very well in a host of other places including St.-Emilion, Pomerol, Casablanca, Washington State and even California.

Other reds wine grapes you should seek out when making your wine selections include, mourvedre, sangiovese, petite sirah and my favorite zinfandel.

This listing is by no means all-inclusive. There are so many wine grape varieties out there. Next time you are out making your wine purchase try a different grape variety. You will broaden your tasting experience and you may just find a new wine jackpot. 

Until next time, drink responsibly.

Stonehedge

I simply love going into a store to purchase something and then happening by the wine section only to leave with a total jackpot. That very thing happened to me again today. I was in Trader Joe’s picking up a few items for lunch for the rest of the week when I decided to just peruse the wine section. Now mind you, I wasn’t planning on buying anything I was only going to look (window shop if you will). 

Stonehedge Vineyards

Well after several minutes of going up and down the aisles I happened upon a small section of Petite Syrahs. Knowing how much I enjoy a good Syrah I decided to focus in a little closer. I found myself reading several of the labels (front and back – see previous post) when I became fixated on a bottle of Stonehedge Reserve Petite Syrah produced by Stonehedge Winery in Napa, California. There was nothing extremely fancy about the bottle. A typical black bottle with a nicely done black and gold front label. The back label was also nothing to write home about. However, for some reason this little bottle seemed to be calling out to me to take it home. I finally conceded and put it in my small shopping cart before heading to the register.

Petite Syrah Grapes

After I made dinner I decided to give it a taste. Wow! What a surprise. The first thing that came to my mind was a nice smell of ripe dark cherries.  The initial taste was outstanding. Explosive flavors of dark plums and berries filled my mouth and engulfed my palate. Complex, the flavor was quite bold but the finish was as smooth as silk. I didn’t have to use my Vinturi to get this effect either. 

I really try not to seek out other reviews about a wine before I write about them so that I am not biased. However, while searching for more info about the vineyard this wine comes from I did read a few reviews. Some seem to agree with me and others not so much. As always I encourage you to try this wine for yourself and let me know what you think. I had this with a spicy dinner and it was very good. Also, for the price (a mere $9.99 at Trader Joe’s) this will definitely go on my jackpots list. Go out and try it and provide a comment. I would love to hear your opinion. 

Stonehedge Reserves

Until next time…drink responsibly.