Author Archives: WineStyles Tasting Station

Ehlers Estate Winery Spotlight Tasting Event

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September Winery Spotlight
Tasting Event
>> RSVP at your local WineStyles <<

Join us for a Winery Spotlight tasting event, featuring Ehlers Winery of St. Helena, California.

The story of Ehlers Estate is one of passion, patience, and hard work. It was the lure of winemaking that tempted Bernard Ehlers to buy a small, dying vineyard in the late 1800s and create the winery that continues to bear his name. A century later, another husband and wife team discovered the lure of this idyllic spot in the heart of the Napa Valley.  French entrepreneurs and philanthropists Jean and Sylviane Leducq continue to produce wines with the power, balance and structure of the finest Bordeaux bottling they knew and loved.

ABOUT EHLERS ESTATE

ehler_wineryThe story of Ehlers Estate is one of passion, patience, and hard work, intertwined like the tendrils of robust vines that have been part of the landscape here since the mid-1800s.

It was the lure of winemaking that tempted Bernard Ehlers to buy a small, dying vineyard in the late 1800s and embark on a quest to create the winery that continues to bear his name.  He replanted his newly-acquired 10-acre vineyard, established the olive grove that still thrives today and in 1886 completed construction of the stone barn that is now our beautiful winery building and tasting room. His original Bale Mill Winery continued to operate long after his death, run by his wife until the 1920s and then by successive new owners who took advantage of its prime location and unique terroir.

A century later, another husband and wife team discovered the lure of this idyllic spot in the heart of the Napa Valley.  French entrepreneurs and philanthropists Jean and Sylviane Leducq saw the potential for this region to produce wines with the power, balance and structure of the finest Bordeaux bottlings they knew and loved.  Over several decades they patiently built a contiguous wine estate – common for French chateaux but increasingly rare in California.

kevin-morrisey-winemakerWith the help of renowned enologist, Jacques Boissenot, they gradually acquired individual local vineyards as they came up for sale and replanted with the most suitable clones and rootstock. By the turn of the century they had created the 42-acre estate we farm today, with Bernard Ehlers’ original stone barn and vineyard at its heart and the Ehlers name once again poised to grace wine labels. The 21st Century began with the release of the very first vintage from the Leducq’s new Ehlers Estate.

Developing the winery had become a passion project for Jean and Sylviane, one they shared long after the sale of their other successful businesses in Europe. Their legacy remains in safe hands today under the leadership of our current winemaker, Kevin Morrisey, who was favored by Sylviane because he shares the same passion for creating sophisticated wines with an old-world charm that capture the character and heritage of our land.

Ehlers Estate continues a proud tradition of farming with experienced vineyard and cellar teams that share a non-interventionist winemaking philosophy firmly rooted in the belief that terroir defines a wine, but passion, patience and hard work are needed to ensure that it is fully expressed in the bottle.
ehler_vineyard
By using organic vineyard practices, Ehlers Estate leaves a minimal footprint on the land and provides maximum flavor in the grapes. Taking advantage of the robust Estate ecosystem and carefully-chosen rootstocks, the vineyard crew coaxes the vines to fully express the numerous soil types and microclimates found on the estate. Once the grapes are harvested, the cellar crew knows when to be hands-on and when to let nature takes its course as the wines ferment, develop and age.

Today, the winery strives to be responsible stewards of the land and continue the legacy of Bernard and Anne Ehlers, and Jean and Sylviane Leducq, who saw the potential that you can taste in every bottle of Ehlers Estate wine.

EHLERS ESTATE
Winery Spotlight Tasting
St. Helena, California

ehlers-wines

  • Ehlers Estate Sauvignon Blanc
  • Ehlers Estate Cabernet Franc
  • Ehlers Estate Merlot
  • Ehlers Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Ehlers Estate 1886 Cabernet Sauvignon

 Limited Seating Available – Reserve your seat ASAP!

Contact your local WineStyles to RSVP!

Seafood Capellini with Saffron

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seafoodClean, citrus notes of lemon and lime zest compliment the fish. The lightness of the pasta and herbs are matched by the lightness of the wine, making for an all-in-all refreshing meal.

INGREDIENTS:
• 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 pound shelled and deveined jumbo shrimp (8 shrimp)
• 1 pound monkfish or other firm white fish such as halibut, trimmed and cut into 8 pieces
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
• One 14-ounce can diced tomatoes, drained
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons minced flat-leaf parsley
• 1 serrano chile with seeds, minced
• 1 teaspoon hot paprika
• 2 cups chicken stock or low-sodium broth
• one 8-ounce bottle clam juice (1 cup)
• pinch of saffron threads
• 6 ounces capellini pasta, broken into 3-inch lengths
• lemon wedges, for serving

DIRECTIONS:
• In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of the olive oil over moderately high heat. Season the shrimp and monkfish with salt and pepper and add to the skillet. Cook for 6 minutes, turning once, until barely opaque throughout. Transfer to a plate.
•  In the same skillet, heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil over moderate heat. Add the tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic, 1 tablespoon of the parsley, the serrano chile and the paprika.
•  Add the chicken stock, clam juice and saffron, season with salt and bring to a boil. Add the capellini and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the sauce, about 5 minutes.
•  Return the shrimp and monkfish to the skillet along with any accumulated juices and toss well. Transfer the pasta to bowls and garnish with the remaining 1 tablespoon of parsley. Serve with lemon wedges.  Makes 4 servings.  Recipe courtesy of Food and Wine magazine.

macabeocrispMonasterio de las Viñas
Macabeo
Cariñena, Spain

Between the 12th and 18th centuries, the Corona de Aragón (Crown of Aragon) spanned territories from the east of Spain to the south of Greece, quintessential areas steeped in wine-producing prestige and culture, among which Cariñena played a prominent role. All this tradition and know-how is present today in a brand of premium quality wines, in zones at more than 1600 feet altitude and with vineyards over 40 years old, combining indigenous varieties with international ones, in homage to one of the greatest kingdoms in history.  Grapes for this wine were harvested from vines with an average age of 20-years old grown at an elevation of 1900 feet.  Traditional winemaking and aging in stainless steel gives this wine a crisp style.

“This wine is a brilliant, pale yellow in color.  A nose of lemon and melon is reflected on the palate, with the addition of zesty lime.  Light bodied and easy drinking, this wine can be enjoyed on its own or with food. Pairs well with seafood capellini and saffron.” – winemaker, Marcelo Morales

winemakerWinemaker: Marcelo Morales
Appellation: Cariñena, Spain
Varietal Blend:  100% Macabeo
Analysis: 13% alcohol/volume
Critical Acclaim: Reviewed and approved by Doug Frost, Master Sommelier and Master of Wine.

July Wine Club pairing recipe

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Rich, juicy notes of strawberries are complimented by more savory notes of violets and licorice, which meld with the flavors from the pork and anise in the recipe. The smooth, medium/full body of Monasterio de las Viñas Rerserva Red from Cariñena Spain matches the mouthfeel of the meat.

pork-chops-shallotsPork Chops with Shallots

INGREDIENTS:
• Four 8-ounce bone-in pork rib chops
• Salt and freshly ground pepper
• All-purpose flour, for dusting
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 4 large shallots, sliced (1 ¼ cups)
• ½ teaspoon anise seeds
• ¼ cup dry red wine
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons tomato paste

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper and dust with flour.

In a skillet, heat the oil until shimmering. Add the pork and cook over high heat for 1 minute. Add the butter, reduce the heat to moderately high and cook, turning once, until the chops are browned on both sides, 8 minutes. Transfer the chops to a baking sheet and bake in the oven until an instant-read thermometer inserted at the thickest point registers 145°F, about 7 minutes.

Meanwhile, add the shallots and anise to the skillet and cook over low heat, stirring, until softened, about 8 minutes. Add the wine and reduce over moderately high heat to ½ cup, about 2 minutes. Add the stock and reduce by half, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste and cook for 1 minute longer. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer the chops to plates and top with the sauce. Recipe courtesy of Food & Wine Magazine.

Bold_stickerMonaterio_Reserva_wineMonasterio de las Viñas
Reserva Red
Cariñena, Spain

In the 11th century, Cistercian monks built a monastery in the Sierra de Aguarón.  Today, this region is known for its superior quality wines. Monasterio de las Viñas celebrates the history of the land by using traditional varietals sourced entirely from Aguarón. Cariñena is one of the oldest protected growing regions in Europe, receiving D.O. status in 1932.  Vines grow in reddish-brown limestone over loose rock. A continental climate and a cold, northerly wind known as cierzo contribute to the characteristic intensity of the grapes.   Harvested from vines an average age of 30-years-old grown at an elevation of 1900-2600 feet, the grapes were aged for 12-16 months in French and American oak barrels and aged in bottle for 2 years. Pairs well with pork chops and shallots.

winemaker-marcelo-morales

Winemaker Marcelo Morales

“This wine is bright ruby-red with a garnet color change at the rim.  Aroma of strawberries, violets and licorice become ripe on the palate.  Additional notes of vanilla and wood create more complexity” – Marcelo Morales, winemaker

Winemaker: Marcelo Morales
Appellation: Cariñena, Spain
Varietal Blend:  50% Grenache, 25% Tempranillo, 25% Cariñena
Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
Critical Acclaim: International Wine & Spirits Competition 2015, Bronze. Reviewed and approved by Doug Frost, Master Sommelier and Master of Wine

Peter Barry’s Roast Chicken with Gravy

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roasted-chicken-recipeINGREDIENTS:
•  1 bulb garlic
• olive oil
• sea salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• 1 lemon
• 2 medium onions
• 2 carrots
• 2 sticks celery
• 5 roasting potatoes
• 1 heaped tablespoon plain flour
• 1 small bunch fresh thyme, rosemary, bay or sage, or a mixture
• 3.5 lbs (1.6 kg) free range / organic chicken
• 5 oz. of The Barry Bros Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon
• 1 quart (1 litre) of chicken stock

DIRECTIONS:
Take your chicken out of the fridge 30 minutes before it goes into the oven.  Preheat your oven to 475°F. Wash vegetables and roughly chop. Break the garlic bulb into cloves, leaving them unpeeled.  Pile all veggies and garlic into the middle of a large roasting tray and drizzle with olive oil.  Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and season well with salt and pepper, rubbing it all over the bird.
Carefully prick the lemon all over, using the tip of a sharp knife (pop lemon in the microwave for 40 seconds to bring out flavor).  Place lemon and bunch of herbs inside the chicken’s cavity.  Place the chicken on top of the vegetables in the roasting tray and put into the preheated over. Turn down the heat immediately to 400°F and cook chicken for 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Prepare potatoes and veggies and place in oven for the last 45 minutes of cooking. Baste the chicken halfway through cooking and if the veggies look dry, add a splash of water to the tray to stop them from burning.  When cooked, take the tray out of the oven and transfer the chicken to a board to rest for 15 minutes or so.  Cover it with tin foil and a tea towel and put aside.

To make the gravy,  carefully remove 90% of the hot fat from the tray of the chicken/veggie juices, scooping off the fatty layer that settles on top. Put the tray back on stove on high heat.  Add the flour, stir and hold the tray steady with a tea towel in one hand, use a potato masher to mash all the veggies to a pulp and add the wine.  Keep it over the heat and let it boil for a few minutes.  Pour the stock into the tray, or add 1 quart (1 litre) of hot water.  Bring everything to a boil, scraping all the goodness from the bottom of the pan as you go.  Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until you’ve achieved the gravy consistency you’re looking for.  Carve the chicken and serve gravy and roasted vegetables.   Recipe modified from Jamie Oliver.

Barry-Bros-Wine-Bottle-ShotBold_stickerJim Barry
The Barry Bros
Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon
Clare Valley, South Australia

Wine has been flowing in the Clare Valley since 1851 and is an integral part of the culture.  It is one of Australia’s most prestigious premium wine regions famous for it’s Riesling and Shiraz.  A tiny area accounting for less than 1.5% of the total Australian production.  With it’s beautiful rolling hills, ideal winter rainfall and Mediterranean climate, Clare Valley carries a unique history and winemaking heritage.  “We have taken inspiration from our family’s history to create this wine.  Our two favorite varieties, Shiraz and Cabernet, were blended to deliver a contemporary expression of this traditional Australian Style,” notes Tom and Sam Barry.  

Tom Barry, winemaker

Tom Barry, winemaker

“This wine is a deep purple in appearance.  Dark fruits are the signature of this vintage with scents of cherries, blackberry, blood plum, aniseed and spice.  The wine opens up and displays lifted violet floral notes.  On the palate, there are juicy red fruits of cherry, plum and raspberry, with hints of earth and savory herbs.  This wine displays brightness complemented by supple tannins and a persistent finish.” – Tom Barry, winemaker.

Winemaker: Tom Barry
Appellation: Clare Valley, Australia
Varietal Blend:  58% Shiraz, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Malbec
Analysis: 14.2% alcohol / volume, 3.50 pH, 6.0 TA 6/L
Critical Acclaim: Reviewed and approved by Doug Frost, Master Sommelier and Master of Wine.

Lemongrass BBQ Pork with Rice-Vermicelli Salad

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Lemongrass-Barbecued-Pork-with-Rice-Vermicelli-SaladMARINADE  INGREDIENTS:
•  4 large garlic cloves, thickly sliced
• 3 large stalks of fresh lemongrass, tender inner white bulb only, sliced crosswise
•  2 large shallots, thickly sliced
•  1 ¼ tablespoon sugar
•  3 tablespoons Asian fish sauce
•  2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
•  3 tablespoons vegetable oil
•  2 tablespoons soy sauce
•  1 ¼ pounds boneless pork loin, sliced ½ inch thick

VERMICELLI SALAD INGREDIENTS:
• ¼ pound rice vermicelli noodles
•  4 medium garlic cloves, quartered
•  3 tablespoons sugar
•  3 Thai chiles or 1 large jalapeño, thickly sliced
•  ½ cup Asian fish sauce
•  ¼ cup finely chopped cilantro
•  ¼ cup finely chopped mint
•  ½ cup fresh lime juice
•  1/3 cup water
•  2 large cucumbers, peeled, halved lengthwise, seeded and thinly sliced crosswise
•  carrot and daikon pickles, for serving

DIRECTIONS:
In a food processor, finely chop the garlic, lemongrass and shallots.  Add the sugar, fish sauce, lime juice, vegetable oil and soy sauce and process to a paste.  In a large shallow dish, coat the pork with marinade.  Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

In a large bowl, cover the rice vermicelli with cold water and let soak until pliable, about 20 minutes.

In a mortar, using a pestle, pound the garlic cloves to a paste with the chilies and sugar.  Stir in the fish sauce, cilantro, mint, lime juice and water.

Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil over high heat. Drain the rice vermicelli and add it to the boiling water.  Cook, stirring, until barely tender, about 1 minute.  Drain the vermicelli.  Rinse the vermicelli in cold water and drain thoroughly.  Transfer the vermicelli to a large bowl, add the cilantro-and-mint dressing and toss well. Scatter the sliced cucumbers over the rice-vermicelli salad.

Light a barbecue or grill and cook the pork until nicely charred, about 2 minutes per side.  Transfer the pork to plates and serve with the rice-vermicelli salad and carrot and daikon pickles.   Recipe courtesy of Marcia Kiesel of Food and Wine.

JBW-Water-Riesling-High-Res-Bottle-ShotcrispJim Barry
Watervale Riesling
Clare Valley, South Australia

Jim Barry Wines is a family winery based in the Clare Valley of South Australia. Jim Barry was the 17th qualified winemaker in Australia and founded the company in 1959 with his wife Nancy. The company is now owned and managed by Peter Barry, a second generation family winemaker. Following  the legacy of his father and grandfather, Tom Barry was named ‘Young Winemaker of the Year’ in 2013. The tiny village of Watervale (population 246), nestled in South Australia’s Clare Valley, is renowned for the quality of its Riesling.  The grapes for the Riesling are picked from a special part of the Florita vineyard in Watervale.  This famous Riesling vineyard usually achieves full ripeness, with high natural acid levels.

Tom Barry, winemaker

Tom Barry, winemaker

“This wine is brilliant pale yellow in appearance.  On the nose is creaming soda, musk, fresh honeydew melon, lemon tart and bath salts.  The palate delivers ginger, mouth-watering juiciness, crisp granny smith apple like acidity. Generous lime fruit and a touch of fine talc phenolics which lifts the creaminess.”” –  Tom Barry, winemaker

silverstarWinemaker: Tom Barry
Appellation: Clare Valley, South Australia
Varietal Blend:  100% Riesling
Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume, 3.0 pH / 7.4 TA g/L
Critical Acclaim: SILVER status by Doug Frost, Master Sommelier and Master of Wine

 

May Wine Club pairing recipe

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BBQ-Flank-SteakBBQ Flank Steak with Burnt Cabbage and Oyster Mayo

STEAK INGREDIENTS:
• 2.2 lb (1 kg) flank steak
• 3.5 oz. (100ml) fish sauce
• 3.5 oz. (100ml) light soy sauce
• 2 garlic cloves. microplaned
• 1 knob ginger, microplaned
• 3.5 oz. (100ml) grapeseed oil
CABBAGE SALAD INGREDIENTS:
• 1/2 cabbage, cut into 4, stem left on
•  1.5 oz. (50g) oyster mushrooms
•  1.5 oz. (50g) enoki mushrooms
•  1.5 oz. (50g) shiitake mushrooms, finely sliced
•  2 radishes, finely sliced
•  shiso cress
•  1.5 oz. (50ml) light soy sauce
•  1 lime, juiced
•  1 tsp miso paste
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 3.5 oz. (100ml) grapeseed oil
OYSTER MAYONNAISE INGREDIENTS:
• 4 oysters shucked
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 5 oz. (150ml)grapeseed oil
• sea salt
DIRECTIONS:
Marinate the steak in the fish sauce, soy, garlic, ginger & oil for 2 hours.   To make the burnt cabbage salad, place a frying pan on high heat with a little oil. Add the cabbage wedges and cook evenly on all sides until the cabbage is soft and quite blackened. Remove and place onto absorbent paper towel until cool.  In the same pan, quickly fry the oyster mushrooms for 1 minute, remove and allow to cool. Make the vinaigrette by whisking the light soy, lime juice, miso paste, sesame oil and grapeseed oil together.

To make the oyster mayo, in a blender add the oysters, egg yolks and Dijon. With the motor running slowly add the grapeseed oil to emulsify, season and reserve in the fridge for later use.  Remove the flank from the fridge at least 30 minutes prior to cooking, heat your BBQ until it is very hot. Add the flank and cook for approximately 6 minutes on both sides or done to your liking. Remove and allow to rest in a warm spot.

To serve, roughly chop the cabbage length ways and add this to a large bowl, add the mushrooms, radish and vinaigrette and toss well. Place a mound of the salad to one side of your serving dish, slice the beef evenly and place this next to the salad, spoon a dollop of the mayo next to this and garnish with the shiso cress.  Courtesy of Vasse Felix Restaurant.

VF-Filius-Cab-Sauv-Bottle-ShotBold_stickerVasse Felix
Filius Cabernet Sauvignon
Margaret River, Australia

Vasse Felix was established in 1967 by pioneer Dr. Thomas Cullity and is the founding wine estate of Margaret River. Margaret River experiences the unique combination of a Mediterranean climate, maritime influence and perfect soils for organic and sustainable viticulture. ‘Filius’ translates to ‘son of’ in Latin, reflecting the relationship between this wine and the Vasse Felix Cabernet Sauvignon; the estate’s most historic red wine. Filius is a more approachable, opulent interpretation of Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon, a style renowned for its elegance and power. All fruit parcels were vinified and matured individually before grading post maturation to create a regional expression of the vintage.

virginia-willcock“An intense nose of blackcurrant and black cherry fruit, with complimentary coffee and chocolate aromas. These above earthy hints of sage, bay leaf, mushroom, truffle and venison. A juicy and fine up-front palate with dark cherry succulence and a savory dark chocolate sensation, akin to black forest cake. Vibrant fruit is carried with the bright acidity and attractive tannins building to the dry finish with lingering perfume remaining” – Virginia Willcock, winemaker

silverstarWinemaker: Virginia Willcok
Appellation: Margaret River, Australia
Varietal Blend:  85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Malbec, 2% Petite Verdot
Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume, 3.52 pH / 6.8 TA g/L
Critical Acclaim: SILVER status by Doug Frost, Master Sommelier and Master of Wine

 

Wine-Club-LogoJoin our Wine Club this month and receive two SILVER STAR rated wines and pairing recipes!

Each month you’ll be introduced to new and different wines from around the world, from various appellations, varietals and wine styles. Plus, you’ll enjoy all the perks that comes with membership, including 10% off wine purchases and 15% off additional purchases of wine club wines.

Premium Wine Club pairing recipe

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grilled-lamb-burgersGrilled Spicy Lamb Burgers

•  1 pound ground lamb
•  1 tablespoon garlic, chopped
•  1 teaspoon sherry
•  1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
•  1 teaspoon molasses
•  1 teaspoon ground cumin
•  ½ teaspoon ground allspice
•  ¼ teaspoon salt
•  2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
•  2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
•  2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
•  ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
•  4 pita bread rounds (or burger buns)
•  4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat grill for medium heat.  Place the lamb in a large bowl, and mix with the mint, cilantro, oregano, garlic, sherry, vinegar, and molasses. Season with cumin, allspice, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper, and mix well. Shape into 4 patties.

Brush grill grate with oil. Grill burgers 5 minutes on each side, or until well done. Heat the pita pocket briefly on the grill. Serve burgers wrapped in pitas with feta cheese.  Recipe courtesy of AllRecipes.com

Bold_stickerstolpman-wine-petite-sirahStolpman Vineyards
Petite Sirah
Ballard Canyon AVA
Santa Ynez Valley, California

Over 20 years ago, founder Thomas Stolpman, discovered what he believed to be one of the greatest viticultural sites on earth. Hidden in the hills of California’s Central Coast, on a rare limestone outcropping and unobstructed from the Pacific Ocean wind, this unique land is naturally suited to grow Syrah and Roussanne grapes. The largest vineyard in the AVA, Stolpman Vineyards is considered the founding vineyard of the Ballard Canyon. The inky, black wine complements the bold flavors of BBQ perfectly. This wine stands up to a wide range of grilled meats, from lamb chops to classic BBQ dishes like ribs and brisket.

Sashi Moorman, winemaker

Sashi Moorman, winemaker

“Petite Sirah can often drink so big and ripe the wine becomes monolithic.  Not so with this cooler vintage Petite Sirah.  The nose shows glints of creosote and black pepper.Thanks to de-stemming all of the clusters, the body is lush and forgiving on the finish.  Even more unctuous and seamless after two years in neutral barrel, our Syrah fans will appreciate the Petite Sirah.  This Petite Sirah might be the top pick out of the current releases for grilled steak.” – Sashi Moorman, winemaker

Winemaker: Sashi Moorman
Appellation: Santa Ynez Valley, Ballard Canyon AVA, California
Varietal Blend:  100% Petite Sirah
Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume, 3.81 pH, 6.6 TA g/L
Critical Acclaim: Reviewed and approved by Doug Frost, Master Sommelier and Master of Wine

Wine-Club-LogoJoin our Premium “Enjoy” Wine Club this month and receive two delicious wines from Stolpman and pairing recipes!

Every other month, you’ll receive two bottles of “If You Insist” premium wines that you’ll truly adore. These wines are top scoring or limited releases that you will thoroughly ENJOY or impress your friends!  Plus, you’ll enjoy 10% off wine purchases and 15% off additional purchases of wine club wines.

 

Stolpman Vineyards Winery Spotlight Tasting Event

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Stolpman_Tasting_headerMay Winery Spotlight
STOLPMAN VINEYARDS Tasting Event
>> RSVP at your local WineStyles <<

CircleLogo_Stolpman_HighResJoin us for a Winery Spotlight tasting event, featuring Stolpman Vineyards of Los Olivos,  California.

The largest vineyard in the AVA, Stolpman Vineyards is considered the founding vineyard of Ballard Canyon. Over a dozen other vintners followed Tom Stolpman into Ballard Canyon and based on the results of their experimentation, all have decided to focus on Syrah. Planted in 1992 and 1994, their first blocks of Syrah are the oldest vines, producing concentrated Syrah with a firm structure built for aging. Please join us as we Taste, Learn and Enjoy® these delicious wines from the Stolpman Vineyards. Cheers!

redcottageIf you ever get a chance to visit historic Los Olivos, be sure to stop by their adorable “little red cottage” tasting room.  Or click here for a virtual tour. Los Olivos is one of my favorite places to visit, very cute and quaint little neighborhood of tasting rooms, just outside of Solvang, CA in the Santa Ynez Valley.  Our WineStyles team had the pleasure of visiting wineries in Los Olivos last year.

ABOUT STOLPMAN VINEYARDS and FAMILY

Over 20 years ago, Founding Partner, Thomas Stolpman, discovered what he believed to be one of the greatest viticultural sites on earth. Hidden in the hills of California’s Central Coast, on a rare Limestone outcropping & unobstructed from the Pacific Ocean wind, this unique land is naturally suited to grow Syrah and Roussanne grapes. Stolpman Vineyards are committed to preserving this natural environment for vines through natural farming, dry farming, & sustainable employment. In the winery, they prefer native fermentation & minimal manipulation.   Dedicated to sensible farming & winemaking, Stolpman Vineyards believe that theycan create natural, vibrant, site-specific wines, with a focus unique to Ballard Canyon AVA, California.

StolpmanTom_WSTom Stolpman, Founding Partner

Behind every great man there is a strong woman. Marilyn Stolpman seeded the idea of creating a vineyard in Tom’s mind back on their honeymoon in 1974. Marilyn believed she and Tom should only invest in something the family could enjoy, and encouraged Tom to pursue his viticultural dream.

Marilyn was first exposed to wine while a UCLA undergraduate studying abroad at the University of Bordeaux, where she studied French literature. Today, Marilyn heads up the estate extra virgin olive oil program and promotes Stolpman wines with Tom.

Tom Stolpman still practices law as a trial attorney with the Long Beach, California firm of Stolpman, Krissman, Elber & Silver LLP. When not preparing or trying cases, he is the founding partner and charismatic historian of Stolpman Vineyards and Ballard Canyon.

Tom and Marilyn finished construction of their dream house on the vineyard, Villa Angeli, in 2013. Perched atop one of the vineyard hills, Tom and Marilyn can enjoy the family dynasty they have created.

Learn more about the folks at Stolpman and their “Grape Whisperer”.

Stolpman_winemaker

stolpman-wineSTOLPMAN VINEYARDS
Winery Spotlight Tasting
Santa Ynez Valley, California

  • Stolpman Viognier
  • Stolpman Roussanne
  • Stolpman LaCuadrilla
  • Stolpman Estate Syrah
  • Stolpman Petite Sirah
  • Stolpman Sangio Degli Angeli

 Limited Seating Available – Reserve your seat ASAP!

Contact your local WineStyles to RSVP!

Fess Parker Winery Spotlight Tasting Event

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fess-parker-headerApril Winery Spotlight
Tasting Event
>> RSVP at your local WineStyles <<

 Fess-parker-logoJoin us for a Winery Spotlight tasting event, featuring Fess Park Winery and Vineyards of Santa Ynez Valley, California.

Our WineStyles team had the privilege of touring and tasting at Fess Parker’s Winery and Vineyards last year.  Not only is the winery a beautiful property in Santa Ynez Valley, it also offers equally beautiful wines.  We hope you will enjoy the Fess Parker winery experience as much as we did….and bring home a few extra bottles to continue enjoying at home, as we did 🙂

ABOUT FESS PARKER WINERY and FAMILY

When Fess Parker was cast in the role of Davy Crockett in the mid-1950’s, it caused an international sensation and changed his life forever. So too did the purchase of 714 acres in the Santa Ynez Valley change the course of the Parker family’s history.

Driving north along the pastoral Foxen Canyon Wine Trail feels like traveling back to California’s early days. Rolling hills frame vast meadows, deer and wildlife roam free, and pristine landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see. Realizing the potential of Santa Barbara County as a premium grape-growing region, Fess and his son, Eli, originally set out in 1989 to plant a small vineyard and sell fruit to local producers. But, as Fess’ daughter, Ashley explains, “ Fess is from Texas, so he can’t do anything small. “The Fess Parker Winery and Vineyard now farms almost 700 acres on four vineyards throughout Santa Barbara County.

Fess-familyEli Parker and his sister Ashley continue to stay involved as stewards of the family’s vision for the winery while Ashley’s husband Tim Snider serves as President and oversees day-to-day operations. The family’s vineyard is the 120-acre Rodney’s Vineyard, named after Fess Parker’s late son-in-law, at the 400-acre Foxen Canyon Road estate where the winery is located. They also source grapes from Camp Four vineyard in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley, which Parker planted in 1998 as well as vineyards in the cooler Sta. Rita Hills and Santa Maria Valley appellations. Blair Fox assumed the role of head winemaker in 2005. In recent years, the winery has sharpened its focus to produce more small-lot, vineyard-designated wines made from high-quality Rhone and Burgundian varietals, which have won awards in national wine competitions.

Fess-wineryCompleted in 1994, the new winery and tasting room are loosely designed after an Australian sheep station, with a grand stone fireplace, stone floors, and a wraparound veranda with picnic tables. The spacious complex is set amid an acre of meticulously landscaped grounds that border the vineyard. The amphitheater-style lawn, rimmed by mature oaks, provides a serene setting for picnics, summer evening performances by Shakespeare Santa Barbara, and other events. Indoors, visitors taste the latest vintages at a worn knotty pine bar, surrounded by photos of Fess Parker as Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone and other memorabilia related to the actor’s television roles.

Working as a family has always been a great source of pride and pleasure for the Parker family. Eli Parker began in the family business as assistant winemaker in 1989. After several years of learning the craft at the side of renowned and accomplished winemakers, Eli took the reigns as winemaker himself with the 1995 vintage. A leader of the winery since its inception, it was in 1996 that Eli formally assumed the title and responsibilities of President. In the early 1990’s, Ashley ran the first tastings out of the barrel room and represented the winery at trade shows. In 1998, Ashley became Eli’s partner, working on the public relations and sales and marketing teams. The presence of Fess and his wife Marcy as the founding visionaries of the winery is a vital and enduring one.

FESS PARKER
Winery Spotlight Tasting
Santa Ynez Valley, California

Fess-Parker-wine-tasting

  • Fess Parker Santa Barbara Chardonnay
  • Fess Parker Ashley’s Chardonnay
  • Fess Parker Marcellas
  • Fess Parker Santa Barbara Riesling
  • Fess Parker Sta. Rita Hills Pinor
  • Fess Parker The Big Easy
  • Fess Parker Rodney’s Syrah

 Limited Seating Available – Reserve your seat ASAP!

Contact your local WineStyles to RSVP!

Wine and Beer Boot Camp 2016

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Bootcamp Classes WineStyles Tasting Station

Enlist in our Wine & Beer Boot Camp educational series in 2016. Each month, we’ll march our way through a wine and beer training educational class, a salute to all things tasty! This training will make you more confident in choosing wines and beers AND pairing food with your drinks. Best of all, the more training you complete, the more you can earn in delicious tastings!

WineStyles Boot Camp Wine and BeerYou will receive a tasting Boot Camp booklet at your first class. Upon completing each class, we will stamp your booklet, acknowledging your attendance. Keep your Boot Camp booklet and earn a stamp for each class.

The more you learn, the more rewards* you earn!Stamper

LEARN MORE, EARN MORE:

3 stamps in booklet = Free Wine Tasting for 2 people
6 stamps in booklet = Free Wine Tasting for 4 people
8 stamps in booklet = Free Wine Tasting for up to 20 people
11 stamps in booklet = Free “I Survived” Wine & Beer Boot Camp T-Shirt!

2016 WINE & BEER BOOT CAMP CLASSES:WineStyles Wine and Beer Boot Camp Series 2016

January  – Wine 101: Taste Like a Pro
February – Desserts with Wine Pairings
March  – Craft Beer 101
April  – Starting a Wine Collection
May – Cheese and Wine 101
June – all about Rose
July – Wines for Summer Grilling
August – How to Read a Wine Label
September – Exploring German Beer
October – Charcuterie and Wine 101
November – In Depth Guide to Fortified Wine

Please RSVP at your local WineStyles location. Seating space is limited, so make your reservation as soon as possible!

*Please note: Rewards may vary at different WineStyles locations. Offer void where prohibited by state or local alcohol laws. See your local WineStyles Tasting Station for details.