September Premium Wine Club

Posted on August 27, 2024 by mcginnessalex

Seghesio Family Vineyards
Old Vine Zinfandel
Sonoma County, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

This wine invites you in with layered aromatics of black plum, dried fig, clay earth, garrigue and cardamom spice. Our Old Vine Zinfandel opens with a luscious mouth filling entry reminiscent of chocolate cherry cordial and leads into a juicy, supple mid-palate and finishes with rich, velvety tannins. Beautifully balanced.

Analysis: 15% alcohol / volume
AVA: Sonoma County, California
Varietal: 88% Zinfandel, 11% Petite Sirah, 1% Alicante Bouschet
pH: 3.83
Total Acidity: 5.53 g/L
Cases: 6,900
Pairing: Pairs well with Beef Braciole, mushroom sugo, and cherry balsamic pork tenderloin.
Accolades: 93 pts. – Wine Spectator; “Like a briar patch in the glass, this Zin offers spirited raspberry and cherry flavors that take on underbrush, dried sage and white pepper flavors before finishing with zesty tannins. Drink now through 2032.” – Tim Fish, April 2024

Winemaker’s Notes:
Bold and spicy with rich, briary fruit, our Old Vine Zinfandel showcases the complexity and intensity that only truly old vines can yield. For us, “Old Vine” means that the vines are at least 50 years old, and we source grapes for this wine from exceptional vineyards that are closer to 75 years old on average.

Vintage:
The 2022 growing season began with significantly below average winter rainfall totals which led directly into a prolonged frost season lasting late into April. Seghesio vineyards escaped mostly unscathed and launched into a slight cooling trend for May and June. This put the growing schedule closer to average, helping to push back our veraison timing and projected harvest dates. July and August warmed up significantly and some vineyards sustained some sunburn due to exposure. This was just a preamble! Harvest commenced in late August and Labor Day week witnessed record shattering high temperatures in excess of 118° F in northern Alexander Valley while still reaching 115°F in Santa Rosa High Plains. These scorching temperatures pushed ripening and increased stress on vineyards leading to one of the fastest harvests on record for Seghesio Family Vineyards. The grapes were harvested between August 25th and October 20th, 2022.

Viticulture & Winemaking:
The grapes were harvested and sorted by hand to ensure uniformly ripened fruit is delivered to the winery. After being lightly crushed they were fermented in small open-top stainless steel tanks and mixed using pneumatic punch down devices – to facilitate extraction and pumped over to allow for gentle aeration. Free-run wine is drained to barrel after 8 to 12 days on skins and allowed to complete alcoholic fermentation and undergo malolactic conversion. The wines are allowed to evolve for 10 months prior to blending and returned to barrel to integrate for 5 more months prior to bottling. Aged 15 months in 15% New French Oak; 85% Neutral French and American Oak.

About Seghesio Family Vineyards:
Seghesio Family Vineyards is dedicated to the production of extraordinary Zinfandels and the cultivation and preservation of old-vine vineyards. Estate vineyards encompass approximately 320 acres in the Alexander; Dry Creek and Russian River Valleys. In addition to the winery’s critically acclaimed Zinfandels, Seghesio Family Vineyards also produces a handful of wines from traditional Italian varieties in homage to the heritage of the winery’s founders. Learn more here.

DAOU Vineyards
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Paso Robles, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

A heady nose delivers fruit-forward aromas of blackberry, raspberry and plum with traces of licorice, thyme, vanilla and cherry. The palate is beautifully balanced, showing layers of black fruit and chocolate-covered blueberry with underlying herbal, cedar and mineral complexity. Exquisitely rounded tannins imbue the finish with stature and length.

Analysis: 15.2% alcohol / volume
AVA: Paso Robles, California
pH: 3.71
Aging: 18 months in 50% new French oak
Soil Profile: Calcareous, loamy and fine
Accolades: 92-94 points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

Winemaker’s Notes:
The DAOU Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a special selection from top vineyard blocks, showcasing Paso Robles as a world-class region for Bordeaux varieties. The 2022 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon belongs to their Reserve Collection, which features allocated wines from DAOU Mountain as well as top vineyards across the Paso Robles AVA. The best fruit from each site is reserved for special winemaking treatment, resulting in wines that display remarkable character and expression.

Vintage:
The 2022 growing season was initially marked by winter drought conditions that were alleviated by rains in late March and April – a miracle happenstance that replenished the soils and set the pace for healthy vine canopies to come. A later-than-usual bud break was followed by normal spring and summer weather patterns through August. A sustained 10-day heat wave began in early September, prompting an early harvest that put Daniel’s winegrowing ingenuity, artistry and experience to the test. In the end, 2022 was a winemaker’s vintage, yielding elegantly powerful and balanced wines that prove the importance of mastering grape growing and winemaking.

The Vineyards:
The Paso Robles AVA spans many diverse terroirs with the common benefit of a moderating coastal influence. Warm days are followed by cool marine breezes, creating diurnal temperature swings of up to 50 degrees during the summer growing season. Sustainable farming practices, deficit irrigation and high-density vine plantings combine to foster grapes with natural quality and structure. The fruit is hand harvested at peak physiological ripeness to ensure that it reaches the winery in perfect condition.

About Daou Family Estates:
Georges and Daniel Daou are inseparable as brothers, best friends, and visionaries. Started as a family owned and operated winery, DAOU is committed to producing collectible, world-class wines to rival the most respected appellations in the world. DAOU Mountain stands alone at an elevation of 2,200 feet, rising from the heart of the Adelaida district in the rugged coastal range west of Paso Robles. As stewards of this beautiful terroir, DAOU’s goal is to make unique fine wines that honestly reflect the estate and craft wines that combine Old World tradition with New World techniques. Learn more >

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July Premium Wine Club

Posted on June 28, 2024 by mcginnessalex

Broken Earth Winery
2019 CV Reserve
Cabernet Franc
Paso Robles, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

This crop was a much anticipated one. It has a very robust style that retains elegance and finesse. It is quite firm on the palate but the masses of spicy fruit and balancing oak compliment the grip nicely. The color is deep and intense reflecting the wine’s brooding nature. Bright natural acidity will ensure this wine ages for many years. Only new oak is used and the average aging is 23 months.

Analysis: 15.2% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Cabernet Franc
Appellation: Paso Robles, California
pH: 3.58
Residual Sugar: 2 g/L
Total Acidity: 5.52 g/L
Harvest Date: October 2019
Bottling Date: March 2022
Accolades: 92 pts. – Wine Enthusiast

Winemaker Notes:
“The term CV refers to the original vineyard holdings on our estate, Continental Vineyards, and this very limited wine is only produced in exceptional vintage years. In 2019, we achieved perfect fruit ripeness, resulting in a wine of outstanding depth. Cabernet Franc is a significant Bordeaux variety that figures prominently in the “right bank” styles of Pomerol and St. Emilion. In the climate of Paso Robles, Cabernet Franc ripens on its own. We are excited to release this 100% varietal.” – Chris Cameron, Winemaker

Broken Earth Winery
2020 CV
Studium
Estate Grown
Paso Robles, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

The 2020 Studium is the only proprietary blend in the CV line. It is only produced in years where the grapes are of the highest quality. Studium is a medium-bodied wine with soft inviting tannins. Packed with bright plum and cherry flavors and aromas of dried flowers. The balance of acid and tannin will ensure that this wine will age gracefully and slowly. The wine will pair beautifully with roasted duck and a nice steak.

Analysis: 15.4% alcohol / volume
Appellation: Paso Robles
pH: 3.71
Residual Sugar: 1.1 g/L
Total Acidity: 6.3 g/L
Harvest Date: October 2020
Bottling Date: May 2023

Winemaker Notes:
“Latin for “the house of learning”, the 2020 Studium is a proprietary blend that is made early after pressing. It is first aged in neutral French barrels for 12 months, then transferred to second year French oak for just the right soft touch of sweet oak. Harvested late October 2020, the grapes for Studium were gently de-stemmed and immediately inoculated with yeast. Two pump-overs a day completed the fermentation, the wine was then pressed, the malolactic fermentation was initiated.” – Ben Mayo, Winemaker

About Broken Earth Winery:

Celebrating 50 Years: In 1973, Wayne Rodgers (Mash), James Caan (Godfather), Peter Faulk (Columbo), Jack Webb (Dragnet) and local visionary Herman Schwartz established the first large scale vineyard on the Central Coast, planting 520 acres. They anticipated the growth of Paso Robles to be another 2,000 acres with 10-15 wineries over the long-term. Paso Robles now stands around 70,000 acres under vine and over 300 wineries.

Continental Vineyards (CV) grew grapes for many Napa wineries in the early 70’s and 80’s. Winemakers from all over the world would travel to this vineyard to see what Paso Robles was capable of growing. This tradition continues today, establishing many new varieties that have never been planted in the US, and have 34 of the 72 varieties grown in the region.

Broken Earth, as a brand, was born from the heritage of the vineyard property originally named “Rancho Tierra Rejada”, meaning “land of worked or farmed earth”. For generations, farmers have cultivated and ‘broken’ the soil in the region with care and respect. Their goal is to respect the land and its treasures. Broken Earth winery encompasses a philosophy to provide wine that reflects the personality of where it is sustainably grown and the personality of its talented craftsmen, the winemaker and crew. Learn more about the winery here.

Join our PREMIUM WINE CLUB, enjoy amazing wines every other month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

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Broken Earth Nero d’Avola

Posted on June 28, 2024 by mcginnessalex

Grilled Sausage and Peppers with Garlic Aioli

INGREDIENTS:

Sausage and Peppers

1 package Never Any! Mild Italian Style Chicken Sausages (4 individual sausages)
2 bell peppers, cut into slices
half of an onion, cut into slices
½ tablespoon Stonemill roasted garlic herb grill seasoning
olive oil, lemon juice, and salt
4 specially selected brioche hot dog buns

Garlic Aioli

¼ cup mayonnaise
½ teaspoon Simply Nature organic garlic stir in paste
¼ teaspoon Simply Nature organic basil stir in paste (optional, or sub fresh herbs)
salt and lemon juice to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Whisk aioli in a small bowl. Set aside.
Toss peppers and onions with the garlic herb seasoning (or whatever other spices you want). Drizzle with enough oil so they won’t stick on the grill.
Place sausages directly on the grill. Place peppers and onion slices in a grill basket or a cast iron pan on the grill. Grill both until you get nice grill marks and the veggies are soft. At the end of grilling time, add the brioche buns, cut side down, to get them toasty.
Transfer peppers to a bowl and toss with lemon juice, more olive oil as needed, and salt and pepper to taste.
Serve each grilled chicken sausage on a toasted bun with a scoop of grilled peppers and a swizzle of your aioli.

JULY WINE CLUB:

Broken Earth Winery
Limited Release
Nero d’Avola
Estate Grown
Paso Robles, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

The abundance of black cherry and dark plum dominate this wine. The fruit is forward and subtly supported by some oak and bright acidity. The tannins are plush, but relatively soft, offering a wine for many occasions— which will pair with a wide array of foods as well as an enjoyable drink on its own. The variety has an outstanding future ahead of it in Paso Robles.

Varietal: Nero d’Avola
Analysis: 14.9% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.59
R/S: 3.5 g/L
TA: 6.4 g/L
Appellation: Paso Robles, California
Accolades: 91 pts Wine Enthusiast, 2019

Winemaker’s Notes:
“The fruit was handpicked and delivered to the winery, crushed and inoculated that same day with Clos yeast. Pump overs were done twice a day throughout the ferment. Fermentation on skins was done at 22.5 Brix for 10 days at 65°F. Maturation took place in French and American hybrid oak barriques for 9 months. The wine stayed in barrel and then filtration was performed and the wine was bottled.

The decision was made to bottle the wine early after sensory evaluation. The wine had come together so well and retained all of the primary fruit characters associated with the variety that further aging was deemed unnecessary.” – Chris Cameron, Winemaker

About Broken Earth Winery:

Continental Vineyards grew grapes for many Napa wineries in the early 70’s and 80’s. Winemakers from all over the world would travel to this vineyard to see what Paso Robles was capable of growing. This tradition continues today, establishing many new varieties that have never been planted in the US, and have 34 of the 72 varieties grown in the region.

Join our WINE CLUB and enjoy these amazing wines and pairing recipes each month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

Learn about our Memberships >

Broken Earth Limited Release Anonymity

Posted on June 28, 2024 by mcginnessalex

Caprese Skewers

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups balsamic vinegar
10 oz cherry tomatoes
8 oz Ciliegine (“cherry size”) mozzarella cheese
.8 oz clamshell fresh basil leaves
salt and pepper
toothpicks

DIRECTIONS:

For the balsamic drizzle: Add balsamic vinegar to a small saucepan over high heat then bring to a boil. Turn heat down to medium then simmer until vinegar is the consistency of thin maple syrup, 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when you can see the bottom of the pan for a second or two after scraping a spatula across. Pour balsamic reduction into a small bowl and set aside to cool. Alternatively you could use store bought balsamic reduction.
Thread a cheese ball onto a toothpick, followed by a basil leaf – fold in half or into quarters if large. Finish with a cherry tomato then place onto a serving platter. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Just before serving, sprinkle skewers with salt and pepper then drizzle with cooled balsamic reduction. Serve immediately.

JULY WINE CLUB:

Broken Earth Winery
Limited Release Anonymity
Torrontes
Paso Robles, California

SILKY WINE STYLE

Stylistically, this wine is bright, fresh style with aromas of white peach, hints of green melon and subtle spices. The palate is rich and forward with mouthwatering flavors and balancing natural acidity. It has a unique depth to the palate and a texture that suggests softness, even with the abundant acid.

Varietal: Torrontes
Analysis: 12.4% alcohol / volume
Appellation: Paso Robles, California

Winemaker’s Notes:
“Our Anonymity is a white wine produced entirely from the Torrontes grape variety, a native of Argentina. So little of this varietal is grown in the US that it is yet to receive official status by the federal government. This wine does not see any oak and would be ideal for spicy foods as well as richer, creamy white sauces. Its appeal is further enhanced by its ability to maintain fruit when it is well chilled, perfect for summer.” – Chris Cameron, Winemaker

Broken-Earth-Tasting-Room-White-Wine

About Broken Earth Winery:

Join our WINE CLUB and enjoy these amazing wines and pairing recipes each month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

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July Wine Club Pairing Recipe

Posted on June 28, 2024 by mcginnessalex

Berry Cobbler

INGREDIENTS:

8 cups mixed berries
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Biscuit Topping

1 and ½ cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 and ½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
½ cup buttermilk, cold
for topping before baking: 1 tablespoon buttermilk and coarse sugar

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch pan.
Make the filling: In a large bowl, gently fold the berries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract together until thoroughly combined. Spread filling evenly into prepared pan.
Make the topping: Whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt together in a large bowl. Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse meal (pea-sized crumbs). A pastry cutter makes this step very easy and quick. You could also use a food processor. While slowly stirring, slowly drizzle in ½ cup buttermilk. Mix until evenly combined. Take handfuls of dough and gently flatten out. Place dough all over the top of the berry filling. There’s no special trick to this—just flatten the dough in sections and cover most of the berries.
Brush the top of the biscuit dough with 1 tablespoon of buttermilk and then sprinkle with coarse sugar. These two are optional, but both help achieve a shiny, crunchy, golden brown crust.
Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until golden brown and biscuit topping is cooked through. Stick a toothpick into the biscuit topping, if it comes out clean, it is cooked through and the cobbler is done. Set the pan on a wire rack, then cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Cover and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

JULY WINE CLUB:

Broken Earth Winery
Limited Release Tempranillo
Estate Grown
Paso Robles, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

This wine immediately captures your attention. The fruit and oak combine wonderfully on the nose and this harmony continues through the palate. Brighter red fruits abound with great length and flavor, with a balanced firm, finish.

Varietal: Tempranillo
Analysis: 14.6% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.57
R/S: 2.0 g/L
TA: 6.7 g/L
Appellation: Paso Robles, California
Awards: 91 pts. — Wine Enthusiast

Tempranillo:
This grape is a native Spaniard, where it reigns supreme in the famous Rioja region. You might also find it in Portugal under the name Tinta Roriz, where it is a key player in Port production. The name itself is a clue to its personality – “tempranillo” is a derivative of Spanish for “early,” hinting at its characteristic fast ripening.

Winemaker’s Notes:
“Broken Earth had some of the very early plantings of this variety in Paso and, although it was a tiny block, it encouraged us to plant much more in 2016. Block 5J is 15.09 acres of Clone 770 planted on 10’ x 5’ spacings and utilizing simple vertical shoot position (VSP) for canopy management.

It is an active growing variety, as mentioned has the benefit of ripening earlier and provides a plush, ‘fleshy’ palate but with ample tannins to balance the fruit. The wine is quite aromatic and warrants a more obvious oak regime which utilizes mostly new and some used barrels, with a mixture of French and Hybrid (French oak heads and American oak staves). Harvested at 24.5 Brix, and following a cool ferment, it spent 15 months in oak.” – Chris Cameron, Winemaker

About Broken Earth Winery:

Continental Vineyards was growing grapes for many Napa wineries in the early 70’s and 80’s. Winemakers from all over the world would travel to this vineyard to see what Paso Robles was capable of growing. This tradition continues today, establishing many new varieties that have never been planted in the US, and have 34 of the 72 varieties grown in the region.

Join our WINE CLUB and enjoy these amazing wines and pairing recipes each month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

Learn about our Memberships >

Winery Spotlight Series: July 2024

Posted on June 24, 2024 by mcginnessalex

Winery Spotlight Wine Tasting
Austin Hope
Paso Robles, California

July 2024

We’re thrilled to introduce these wines to you! Last September, we had the opportunity to visit the Austin Hope Winery − part of Hope Family Wines − during our annual WineStyles conference in Paso Robles. We had the pleasure of sampling their fantastic range of wines. Now, we invite you to join us for a new Winery Spotlight tasting event, where we’ll be showcasing five different wines from their remarkable line. Please join us!

Wines Tasted:

Treana Sauvignon Blanc
Treana Cabernet Sauvignon
Treana Red
Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon
Quest Red Blend

To reserve a spot and attend the wine tasting, please contact your local participating WineStyles store, or reserve your tickets on their local Eventbrite.

Spotlight_Austin_Hope_July

About Treana:
Treana embodies the essential elements shaping their wines: the fertile land they farm, the warm California sun, and the cooling ocean breeze. The Pacific Ocean’s afternoon breezes cause significant diurnal temperature shifts, preserving the grapes’ natural acidity. Abundant sunshine during the growing season provides warmth, creating ideal conditions for grape cultivation. The Central Coast wine region in California offers some of the most unique and diverse soil types, further enhancing the quality of Treana’s wines.

About Quest:
As makers and dreamers, the minds behind Quest are never at rest, constantly pursuing untapped possibilities. Quest was born from a love of American oak and the Cabernet Franc varietal. Cabernet Franc is noble grape of the Bordeaux region not widely planted in California, particularly in Paso Robles, due to its specific soil and temperature requirements. After years of trial and error, the Hope Family team found the ideal terroir and microclimate in the Paso Robles AVA for the meticulous Cabernet Franc. With established vines, they collaborated with coopers to craft luxury American oak barrels that would enhance their vision for a world-class Cabernet Franc blend. Creating an exceptional Cabernet Franc, akin to crafting an exquisite Pinot Noir, demands careful attention to soil, site, and temperature.

About Austin Hope:
Winemaker Austin Hope launched his namesake label in 2000, five years after assuming leadership of the family business. Initially, Austin Hope wines focused on Rhône varieties cultivated at the Hope family’s estate vineyard. In 2017, after years of exploration and only when he was confident in creating something extraordinary, Austin unveiled his first Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine quickly became a benchmark for Paso Robles. Today, Austin Hope wines represent Austin’s dedication to elevating Paso Robles on the global stage.

Austin Hope is the mark of their family’s multigenerational legacy in Paso Robles, reserved for the finest expressions of Cabernet Sauvignon and estate Rhône varieties. These are the definitive wines from Wine Enthusiast’s 2022 American Winery of the Year.

“The goal is simple: to make wines that express everything Paso Robles has to offer, with its pastoral beauty, perfect soils, maritime climate and limitless possibility.” – Owner-Winemaker Austin Hope

Map of Hope Family vineyards

About Hope Family Wines:
In 1978, Austin Hope’s family settled in Paso Robles, establishing vineyards and apple orchards. Unaware of Paso Robles’ future as a premier wine growing region, they continued farming. Today, Hope Family Wines thrives with six distinct brands: Liberty School, Treana, Quest, Austin Hope, Troublemaker, and the newest addition, Austin. Recognitions include Austin Hope being named the 2019 “Wine Person of the Year” by Paso Robles, their 2017 Austin Hope label ranking #10 on Wine Enthusiast’s “Top 100 Enthusiast Wines of the World,” and their recent accolade as Wine Enthusiast’s American Winery of the Year in 2022. To learn more on their website, click here.

Let’s Taste, Learn and Enjoy® together!

Contact your local participating WineStyles to RSVP for this tasting event.

Winery Spotlight Wine Tasting
Austin Hope – Paso Robles, California
July 2024

Cheers!

WineStyles.com

Winery Spotlight Series: April 2024

Posted on March 25, 2024 by mcginnessalex

Winery Spotlight Wine Tasting
Hope Family Wines
Paso Robles, California

April 2024

We’re thrilled to introduce these wines to you! Last September, we had the opportunity to visit the Austin Hope Winery − part of Hope Family Wines − during our annual WineStyles conference in Paso Robles. We had the pleasure of sampling their fantastic range of wines. Now, we invite you to join us for the Hope Family Wines Winery Spotlight tasting event, where we’ll be showcasing five of their remarkable wines. Please join us!

Wines Tasted:

Austin Chardonnay
Liberty School Cabernet Sauvignon
Austin Cabernet Sauvignon
Liberty School Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Troublemaker Blend 16

To reserve a table and attend the wine tasting, please contact your local participating WineStyles store, or reserve your tickets on Eventbrite.

Sustainability:
Hope Family Wines is committed to sustainable growing practices that promote vine health, improve wine quality, and ensure that growers remain profitable. The number of tractor passes is kept to a minimum, protecting the integrity of the root structures and avoiding compacting the soil. Hope Family Wines works actively with the Central Coast Vineyard Team to promote best practices in the vineyards. They also use self-assessment tools put together by the Wine Institute and the California Association of Winegrape Growers to gauge progress and identify areas for improvement over time. This multi-pronged approach to growing, from winter pruning through fall harvest, ensures we use only the finest grapes for each of our labels.

SIP Certified:
Chuck and Austin Hope believe their stewardship of their estate vineyard reaches far beyond the vineyard rows to ensure the ecosystem thrives. They’ve created wildlife corridors so the native quail, deer and maybe a wild boar or two, can pass through the vineyard. Their estate vineyards are SIP Certified ensuring they focus on preservation and protection of natural and human resources. Learn more about their sustainability efforts >

About Austin Hope – Winemaker & President:
Austin Hope began his journey in Paso Robles in 1978 when his family acquired a ranch. Assigned to work in the vineyards as punishment by his father, Chuck Hope, a young Austin surprised everyone by embracing the task at just eight years old. While studying Fruit Science at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in California, Austin’s family laid the groundwork for Treana Winery. When his uncle passed away in 1996, Chuck turned to Austin to lead the business. Teaming up with winemaker Chris Phelps, Austin ventured into producing red table wine from Paso Robles, then a lesser-known region. His boldness paid off; today, Austin continues to expand his wine portfolio, driven by his unwavering commitment to showcasing Paso Robles’ essence in every bottle.

Let’s Taste, Learn and Enjoy® together!

Contact your local participating WineStyles to RSVP for this tasting event.

Winery Spotlight Wine Tasting
Hope Family Wines
April 2024

Cheers!

WineStyles.com

Winery Spotlight Series: March 2024

Posted on February 9, 2024 by mcginnessalex

Winery Spotlight Wine Tasting
Ancient Peaks Winery
Santa Margarita Ranch AVA
Paso Robles, California

March 2024

We’re thrilled to introduce these wines to you! Last September, we had the opportunity to visit the Ancient Peaks winery and vineyards during our annual WineStyles conference. We had the pleasure of sampling their fantastic range of wines. Now, we invite you to join us for the Ancient Peaks Winery Spotlight tasting event, where we’ll be showcasing seven of their remarkable wines from their estate vineyard that is SIP certified (Sustainability in Practice – the leading standard for viticultural sustainability). Ancient Peaks’ estate vineyard is very exclusive, as it’s the only vineyard in the Santa Margarita Ranch AVA in the Paso Robles wine region. Please join us!

Wines Tasted:

Ancient Peaks Chardonnay
Ancient Peaks Sauvignon Blanc
Ancient Peaks Merlot
Ancient Peaks Cabernet Sauvignon
Ancient Peaks Oyster Ridge
Ancient Peaks Zinfandel
Ancient Peaks Renegade

To reserve a table and attend the wine tasting in person, please contact your local participating WineStyles store, or reserve your tickets on Eventbrite.

About Ancient Peaks Winery:
Ancient Peaks Winery and Margarita Vineyard are owned by three longtime local winegrowing and ranching families – the Filipponis, Rossis and Wittstroms. Two generations are actively involved in the daily operations of the vineyard and winery. Grapes were first planted at the Santa Margarita Ranch by Franciscan missionaries in 1780, but the area’s history began with the Chumash and Salian Native Americans more than 10,000 years ago. The modern viticultural era at the ranch began with the planting of Margarita Vineyard by the famed Robert Mondavi family starting in 1999. The Mondavis saw immense potential in the land with diverse soils and marine-influenced climate.

In 2005, the ranch owners – Filipponi, Rossi and Wittstrom families – had an opportunity to buy the original lease from the Robert Mondavi Winery and take full ownership and control of the Margarita Vineyard. The Margarita Vineyard estate resides in Santa Margarita Ranch AVA and stands alone as the southernmost vineyard in the Paso Robles region, tucked against the Santa Lucia Mountains and just 14 miles from the Pacific Ocean – the coolest micro-climate in Paso. Ancient Peaks’ wines are crafted under the guidance of Founding Winemaker Mike Sinor and Winemaker Stewart Cameron. Vineyard Manager, Jamie Muniz, has been working at the ranch since the first grapes were planted in 1999. Together, they are committed to making wines that capture the extraordinary character and flavors of the Margarita Vineyard Estate. Learn more about their story here.

Sustainability:
The Margarita Vineyard was planted in 1999 as a model for sustainability. Today, Ancient Peaks continues to implement numerous sustainable viticultural practices to ensure natural quality in their wines while protecting the rich native environment surrounding the vineyard. Their practices have earned SIP (Sustainability In Practice) Certification for their Margarita Vineyard, the leading standard for viticultural sustainability. Learn more about their sustainability efforts >

WineStyles 2023 Visit to Ancient Peaks Winery - Oyster Fossils

Ancient Peaks Winery, Santa Margarita AVA

WineStyles 2023 Visit to Ancient Peaks Winery

Doug Filipponi, Co-Owner Santa Margarita Ranch with soils - Photo by Cameron Ingalls

Sustainability - Photo by Cameron Ingalls

Ancient Peaks Winery - Founding Winemaker, Mike Sinor

cameron_ingalls_photo-ancient_peaks-0473

Let’s Taste, Learn and Enjoy® together!

Contact your local participating WineStyles to RSVP for this tasting event.

Winery Spotlight Wine Tasting
Ancient Peaks Winery
March 2024

Cheers!

WineStyles.com

February Cheese Club: Iowa

Posted on January 31, 2024 by mcginnessalex

Central Coast Creamery Seascape Semi-firm Cheese Paso Robles, California

This cheddar-like Cow and Goat milk blend has a velvety paste that will have you coming back for more! The Seascape name is inspired by a luxury resort in the Central Coast town of Aptos. The browned-butter notes of the cow milk meet in perfect harmony with the tangy and fruity goat’s milk to warm you up from the inside like grandma’s baked goods. It has aromas of warm, baked bread with a sweet and salty taste. Its texture is meltable, malleable, slightly elastic and semi-firm. AWARDS:

2015 – United States Cheese Championship – 3rd Place Award
2014 – American Cheese Society (ACS) – 3rd Place Award
2013 – American Cheese Society (ACS) – Best of Class
2012 – World Cheese Contest – Best of Class
2010 – American Cheese Society (ACS) – 2nd Place Award

WINE & CRAFT BEER PAIRINGS: A Chardonnay with a good balance of acidity and richness would be an excellent pairing with this cheese. As for beer, choose a Belgian-style Dubbel or a malty brown ale. WINESTYLES: Rich BEERSTYLES: Malty & Sweet ABOUT CENTRAL COAST CREAMERY: Central Coast Creamery is located near California’s coast in Paso Robles. The area itself was once home to a number of dairies; however, during the 1970s these independent farms lost their steam and were extinct by the end of the decade. Armed with 25 years of experience in the industry, Reggie Jones and his wife Kellie started the creamery hoping to rejuvenate the once burgeoning dairy scene. In true California spirit, all of their cheeses are made in primarily handmade, small batches using locally-sourced milk, free from artificial growth hormones, and aged on pine racks. Information and photo © Central Coast Creamery & Zuercher & Co. – All Rights Reserved.

Cheeseland Inc. Ewephoria Extra Aged Holland

This new creation from Holland is unlike any other sheep milk cheese you have ever tasted before. The milk comes from a small farm where the sheep are treated like family. Even though this cheese has been aged for one year, it has developed a sweet and nutty flavor. This cheese tastes like candy! Experience it for dessert with red or green grapes. WINE & CRAFT BEER RECOMMENDATIONS: Serve with a juicy red Bordeaux. For beer, choose a malty and slightly sweet beer, such as a Belgian Dubbel or a bock. WINESTYLES: Fruity BEERSTYLES: Malty & Sweet ABOUT CHEESELAND INC.: Cheeseland Inc. is a renowned purveyor of premium cheeses, known for its commitment to quality and diverse selection. With a passion for showcasing the rich and varied flavors of cheeses from around the world, Cheeseland Inc. has become a trusted source for cheese enthusiasts and connoisseurs. Their offerings range from artisanal creations to timeless classics, reflecting a dedication to both traditional craftsmanship and innovation. Information and Photo © Cheeseland Inc. & Zuercher & Co. – All Rights Reserved.

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High Camp Estate Reserve Bordeaux

Posted on January 30, 2024 by mcginnessalex

Chocolate and Red Wine Braised Short Ribs

INGREDIENTS:

3 tbsp. olive oil
3 lb. bone-in short ribs
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
3 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tbsp. Ancho chili powder
5 cloves garlic, smashed
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 large yellow onion, chopped
1⁄4 cup tomato paste
3 cups full-bodied red wine, such as nero d’avola
2 cups beef stock
2 bay leaves
2 tbsp. dark brown sugar
1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
¼ tsp. cayenne pepper
3 tbsp. semi-sweet chocolate (I just used 3 tbsp. chocolate chips)
2 tbsp. unsalted butter

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oven to 300°F. Heat oil in an 8-qt. Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season ribs with salt and pepper; rub with cocoa powder and chili powder.
Working in batches, cook ribs, turning as needed, until browned, 8–10 minutes; transfer to a plate.
Add garlic, celery and, onion to pan; cook until soft, 6–8 minutes. Add tomato paste; cook 3 minutes. Add wine; reduce by half, 4–6 minutes. Return ribs to pan and add stock, bay leaves, sugar, Worcestershire, vinegar and cayenne; bring to a boil. Cover and bake until beef is very tender, 2 to 2½ hours. Transfer ribs to a plate; discard bones. Slice ribs in half crosswise.
Spoon fat from surface of sauce. Place pan over medium-high heat and add semi-sweet chocolate; simmer until liquid is reduced to about 2 cups, 10 – 15 minutes, then strain into a bowl. Stir in butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve short ribs and sauce over polenta, mashed potatoes, or any other creamy starch that will sop up the deliciousness.

FEBRUARY WINE CLUB:

High Camp
Estate Reserve
Paso Robles, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

This complex wine is Bordeaux inspired, with a touch of Sangiovese, adding fresh acidity and qualities of fruit forwardness. The tannic structure offers beautiful age ability. Bordeaux-forward aromatics, with bright acidity and fresh fruit notes. It highlights flavors of cherry, raspberry, blackberry, cassis, subtle smoke and spice.

Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Petite Sirah, 15% Petite Verdot, 5% Sangiovese
pH: 3.63
Vineyard: 100% Estate Fruit from San Miguel, Paso Robles, AVA
Aging: Aged in 40% new French oak to create strong, but refined and balanced tannins
Cases: 360

ADDITIONAL FOOD PAIRING RECOMMENDATIONS:
Pairs well with braised short rib, duck confit, smoked sausage.

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Join our Cheese Club and bring home a match made in heaven!

Share this:

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