Tag Archives: single vineyard

May Premium Wine Club

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City-on-hill-red-blendCity on a Hill Wine Company
Red Blend
Swartland, South Africa

Bold wine Style logoBOLD WINE STYLE

The second of their “canvas wines” and the second vintage of this wine, City on a Hill Wine Co. used three varieties stretched across five vineyards. This wine remains the winery’s main focus in terms of red wine and this blend continues to grow in vineyards and varieties as they stretch their reach further across Swartland. The Red Blend has great structure, showing red and black fruit with their trademark Swartland fynbos and olive notes. Syrah dominates this blend followed by Tinta Barocca, and Cinsault.

Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
Varietals: Syrah, Tinta Barocca, and Cinsault
RS: 1.9 g/L
TA: 5.2 g/L
pH: 3.65
Fermentation: Native Yeasts – 75% whole bunch
Vessels: Old 500 liter oak barrels
Year of Planting: 1968-1990’s
Soil Type: Decomposed granite, schist, & clay
Cultivation: Bush vines & trellised vineyards

ABOUT CITY ON A HILL WINE CO.:
City on a Hill Wine Company was started with one goal in mind: to make wine with freedom to explore and engage the vast terroirs and people that make up this beautiful region. The team was drawn to the rustic traits of the Swartland in the South Western part of South Africa – a location where you will rarely find landscaped vineyards or shiny farm gates, but rather an unforgiving landscape and people of the soil. The climate is hot and dry, and the conditions are becoming very extreme to farm in. Herein lies the beauty of the Swartland: a mix of old dry-land bush vines planted by previous generations, complimented by younger plantings of newer and experimental varieties, planted by this generation for the generations to come. City on a Hill Wine Co. has grown their offering to six wines. A lot of effort goes in to ensure constant improvement in all areas of grape growing and vinification. This is a lifelong task and something that the next generation will benefit from. 

© Photo by City on a Hill Wine Co.

Last-of-the-First-WineFalse Bay Vineyards
Last of the First
Stellenbosch, South Africa

Bold wine Style logoBOLD WINE STYLE

Professor Perold’s creation, Pinotage, was propagated at Elsenburg College in 1935. In 1941 Myrtle Grove on the Schapenberg was chosen for the first commercial plantings. Today only one block remains on the Schapenberg — The Last of The First.

Completely different in style to inland Pinotage. The Last of The First is elegant, perfumed, graceful. It is luminescent dark cherry in color with earthy smells of lifted mulberry and damson plums. The taste is balanced with finely integrated tannins threading through from start to finish. It highlights morello cherry with a touch of earthiness. Drink now and over the next decade. Serve at 59ºF – pairs beautifully with duck.

Region: Schapenberg (W.O. Stellenbosch)
Varietal: Pinotage
Analysis: 13% alcohol / volume
RS: 1.5 g/L
TA: 4.9 g/L
Total SO2: 85 mg/l
Production: 1549 bottles

REGISTERED SINGLE VINEYARD:
A small and singular parcel of mature 1994 planted Bush Vine Pinotage measuring 1.3 hectares. This block is the last Pinotage grown on the ocean facing slopes of the Schapenberg, where the original commercial plantings of Pinotage took place. This rare little block is on a cooler, elevated south-facing slope, just 2.5 miles from False Bay. Due to the effect of incessant wind and the application of organic farming practices, the berry-size and yield is also tiny at just over 3 tons/ha or 20 hl/ha. The up-side, however, is healthy grapes with excellent balanced concentration. Good things really do come in small packages.

WINEMAKING:
Grapes are handpicked, sorted and fermented whole bunch with wild yeasts in a small open top oak fermenter, using regular, manual-punch downs during the fermentation process. The wine is left on the skins and stems for 31 days, then is pressed off in a basket press before being transferred to three old 600 liter barrels. Here, the wine goes through a maturation period of 16 months before bottling without fining with only the lightest of filtrations.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Named after South Africa’s most iconic bay, which frames much of the country’s premium wine-lands, False Bay Vineyards, was born from a desire to make ‘real’ wine affordable. It is a sister company to Waterkloof Winery. In 1994, well before Waterkloof was founded, Paul Boutinot came to the Western Cape to seek grapes from balanced, yet under-appreciated vineyards. These vineyards would soon be lost to large co-operative blends that were dominating South Africa’s wine industry at that time. Paul transformed these Cape gems into wines with minimum intervention – something unusual for the time. He chose to organically farm using wild yeast ferments and no acid additions. Today, ingredients remain the same using beautiful coastal fruit, old vines, wild yeasts and additions avoided. Learn more here.

© Photo by False Bay Vineyards

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Finca Buenaventura Aureo Cabernet Sauvignon

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Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

© Karina from Cafe Delites

“The easiest Brussels Sprouts recipe for the holidays! Roasted Brussels Sprouts need little amount of prep work, ingredients and cooking time to make them absolutely incredible.” – Karina

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts washed and dried
  • 4 ounces (120 g) diced bacon or pancetta
  • 1/4 cup good olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic crushed or finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or more to serve

DIRECTIONS:

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a large baking pan with nonstick cooking oil spray or a light coating of oil. Set aside.
  • Trim the ends of sprouts and cut in half lengthwise.
  • Arrange brussels sprouts, any loose leaves, bacon and garlic on the pan. Drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Toss well and spread mixture out in a single layer.
  • Roast sprouts, turning once through cooking, until tender with charred edges. The bacon will be cooked and crispy (about for 25-30 minutes).
  • Toss with the balsamic vinegar. Adjust taste with extra salt and pepper, if needed. Serve immediately.
  • © Photo and Recipe courtesy of Karina at Cafe Delites

NOVEMBER WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoAureo cabernet SauvignonFinca Buenaventura
Aureo Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina

BOLD WINE STYLE

All Finca Buenaventura wines come from their single vineyard, each one has a special treatment in the vineyard to achieve a different result. Each has its own identity. Each wine is the best expression of each type of soil in the of land. Each small micro terroir is different: stony, alluvial, sandy, mixed, volcanic terraces, and limestone spots. All are irrigated by defrosted water from the Andes Mountains, giving amazing mineral notes to the wine. This blessed spot in Uco Valley has 300 sunny days per year with very high temperatures during the day and very cold temperatures at night. The common thread between all of the wines is the consistent warmth, the cool nights, and the long growing season. Most of Finca Buenaventura’s wines are weighty and bold in structure, while also having floral nuances. Their wines are vibrant and exuberant on their own, and do not need cosmetic, excessive oak to mask the fruit.

The ripeness of the fruit is the most outstanding quality of this wine. The nose highlights intense red fruit aromas of raspberries, cherries, pepper and vanilla. The flavor ends sweet in the mouth with flavors of jam.

Sergio Sergio Giménez

Winemaker: Sergio Giménez

Varietal: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Analysis: 13.9% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.7
Acidity: 5.4 g/L
Residual Sugar: 2.8 g/L
Aging: French & American Oak
Harvested: Middle of April
Altitude: 3680 feet
Winemaker: Sergio Giménez

“Located at the foot of the Andes Mountains in the best sub-zone of Mendoza, Uco Valley, we named our winery for life’s Great Adventure. Our wines are unique as a result of growing grapes that drink pristine snowmelt and sun bathe under the blue sky at high altitude. Our estate Cabernet Sauvignon is a taste of this magical place. We made this wine to share with you, as you create your own journey.” – Winemaker, Sergio Giménez

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Food Pairing Ideas for Goldschmidt Wines

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If you’re joining us for the Virtual Wine Tasting event with Nick Goldschmidt on August 12th on Zoom, here are some great food pairing ideas to enhance your tasting experience with Goldschmidt wines.

TIP: Pull white wines out of the refrigerator 30 minutes hour prior to serving so it is closer to wine cellar temperature of 50-58 degrees. Sparkling wines should be served even colder at 40-50 degrees.

 

Singing Tree ChardonnaySinging Tree Chardonnay
Russian River, California

This Chardonnay is lightly oaked and so fresh, the fruit really shines.  It pairs beautifully with crab or artichoke dip or hummus on soft pita or crispy bruschetta.   Greens with apples, jicama or pears, nuts and vinaigrette made with the wine.  Fish and chicken with less bold/overly spicy sauces to allow the wine to be tasted and not covered up.   Baked brie en croute.  Whole wheat linguine with browned butter panko crumbs, toasted pine nuts, shaved Parmesan & parsley (can add splash of lemon juice garlic, and protein of your choice.)

 

 

Boulder Bank Sauvignon BlancBoulder Bank Sauvignon Blanc,
Marlborough, Australia

From a dried up river bed vineyard in the Rapaura region, this wine pulls some salinity into the minerality and has a hint of sweetness on the finish.  Tart, slightly sweet and salty combos pair well.  Try with grilled 1/2 fresh apricots with goat cheese, thyme, honey and candied walnuts or baked or grilled prosciutto wrapped shrimp or scallop on dill aioli.  Or try pan seared Walleye with sweet pea risotto and crispy Pancetta.  Spinach pie with Tahini sauce pairs nicely too. Or try a flatbread with roasted/grilled vegetables with feta cheese & lemon miso sauce.  

 

 

 

Forefathers Sauvignon BlancForefathers Sauvignon Blanc,
Marlborough, Australia

This wine super aromatic, concentrated and viscous, so it likes a little fat/richness in food to meet it head to head.  Sweetness falls on the mid-palate (like the proteins) and the long finish & racy acidity complements the tartness from cheese and lemon is the perfect finish to pull the wine and the foods together.  Pair with creamy smoked trout (or crab) and corn chowder or a fattier fish such as grilled salmon or sea bass with lemon zest.  Ahi tuna and avocado tartare with salted pita chips.  Chilled Mediterranean grain bowl with chickpeas, kalamata olives, sundried tomato, a bit of red onion, chopped fresh parsley, and feta cheese, with lemon, olive oil and splash of the wine.

 

TIP: Serve reds lightly chilled (especially for the warm night on the patio)…chill them down for about 30 minutes in the fridge. Average house temp of 70 degrees or higher does not do justice to your red wines. They are at their best when consumed between 55 and 65 degrees.

Chelsea Merlot Goldschmidt wine bottleChelsea Merlot,
Alexander Valley, California

Pair with grilled or smoked cherry marinated chicken breast or pork loin. Also yummy with classic Cassoulet, sweet Italian sausage and mozzarella.  Yummy with stuffed grilled Portobella mushroom caps…and always great with a traditional ground sirloin burger or lentil mushroom burger.  Will also pair with lasagna or chili, just be easy on the heat/spice.

 

 

 

Katherine Cabernet SauvignonKatherine Cabernet Sauvignon,
Alexander Valley, California

With moderate tannins and excellent food acidity, this wine pairs best with sauces that have earthy and herbal characteristics that are typical of Alexander Valley wines. Crispy pork belly, with black cherry Au jus,  Ribeye tips with Gorgonzola sauce, variety of aged cheeses,  wild mushroom gratin, or beef wellington. Or try with short ribs with wine reduction with touch of dark molasses or wild Game Sausage.

Hilary Goldschmidt wine bottleHilary Cabernet Sauvignon,
Oakville, California  

This wine’s focused and lush tannins on the mid-palate pull it all together…which is why Oakville Cabernet is often considered to be the BEST Cabernet Sauvignon from California by mainstream wine critics and high end consumers.

Pair with traditional seared filet of beef, Osso Bucco, or lamb lollipops with rosemary demi-glaze. Beef Bourguignon. Leaner, rich and tender cuts and most importantly the sauce should not overpower to allow the wine to shine when combined with the food.

 

Forefathers Cabernet wine bottleForefathers Cabernet Sauvignon,
Alexander Valley, California

Alexander Valley vineyard is very steep so it is dry farmed, resulting in tiny berries. Small grapes = higher skin-to-pulp ratio and all the flavor in wine comes from the skins.  This wine is just pure, decadent, highly extracted and exotic Alexander Valley Cabernet.  On opening it may seem wound up…it is best to allow it to breathe for a couple hours or give it some air in your glass.  The nose is stunning.  Dubbed  “Your Ribeye Wine” but it is also stunning with a nice little chunk of aged Gouda or 10-year Cheddar.

 

TIP: Hey not to be Debbie-Downer….though many of us LOVE dark chocolate… this is NOT a true “pairing” for red wine unless it is nearly void of sugar.  The sugar in chocolate desserts completely coats the tongue and overpowers the fruit in the wine, only tasting alcohol in the wine.  Port wines makes a much better “pairing” for chocolate and aged, full flavor cheese is a better dessert offering for red wines. Yes, the chocolate tastes so good with the last wine of the tasting…BUT, please taste and enjoy your reds on their own.  First, get to know the wine and then maybe as you get closer to the bottom of the glass, then pop that chocolate if you must 😉 HAPPY SIPPING EITHER WAY!

Winemaker Virtual Tasting Event on Zoom and Facebook LIVE

Goldschmidt Vineyards

Wednesday, August 12th at 6:00pm CST / 7:00pm EST

Please join us for our August Winery Spotlight tasting event on Zoom, featuring Goldschmidt Vineyards from California.  Our special guest will be Owner and Winemaker, Nick Goldschmidt. 

Nick will be tasting through 7 different wines from Goldschmidt Vineyards, starting with their Chardonnay, two different Sauvignon Blancs, Merlot, and ending with three different Goldschmidt Cabernet Sauvignons.  Be sure to RSVP at your local WineStyles location or on Eventbrite.  Pre-order your wines in advance at your local participating WineStyles location and taste alongside Nick with a front seat on Zoom!  Or watch on our Facebook LIVE event.

Guest speaker Nick Goldschmidt, Owner and Winemaker

me hi rez

Owner and Winemaker, Nick Goldschmidt

Nick Goldschmidt was born and educated in New Zealand and trained in Australia.  In 1989, after spending 18 months of winemaking in Australia, New Zealand, California and South America, Nick returned to California with an amazing range of winemaking experience.  In 1990, Nick and his wife Yolyn settled down in Healdsburg, California becoming Simi’s Chief Winemaker and then Vice President in 1996.  In 1998 Nick and Yolyn established their own line of wines with the release of Goldschmidt Vineyards and Forefathers, with the goal of focusing on site specific vineyards from around the world. Having produced so many world-class wines around the globe, Nick knew exactly the vineyard sites he would choose for his wines.  The wines are all single vineyards, 100% varietal, handcraft, small production artisan wines. Learn more about Nick’s background here.

Let’s Taste, Learn and Enjoy® together! 

Contact your local WineStyles to RSVP for this tasting event.

Goldschmidt Vineyards
California

Cheers!

WineStyles.com

Goldschmidt Napa Oakville

Winery Spotlight Series: August 12, 2020

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Goldschmidt Napa Oakville

Winemaker Virtual Tasting Event on Zoom and Facebook LIVE

Goldschmidt Vineyards

Wednesday, August 12th at 6:00pm CST / 7:00pm EST

Zoom Facebook LivePlease join us for our August Winery Spotlight tasting event on Zoom, featuring Goldschmidt Vineyards from California.  Our special guest will be Owner and Winemaker, Nick Goldschmidt. 

Nick will be tasting through 7 different wines from Goldschmidt Vineyards, starting with their Chardonnay, two different Sauvignon Blancs, Merlot, and ending with three different Goldschmidt Cabernet Sauvignons.  Be sure to RSVP at your local WineStyles location or on Eventbrite.  Pre-order your wines in advance at your local participating WineStyles location and taste alongside Nick with a front seat on Zoom!  Or watch on our Facebook LIVE event.

 

Goldschmidt Wines

 

Goldschmid

ABOUT GOLDSCHMIDT VINEYARDS

Yolyn and Nick Goldschmidt are owner/vintners, and Nick is the winemaker. The winery offices are located in Healdsburg, California. Goldschmidt Vineyards is a vehicle by which Nick and Yolyn present their innovative way of wine making and wine presentation. There are two brands under their portfolio – the prestigious Goldschmidt Vineyard label and the international Forefathers label. The Goldschmidt Vineyard label is a program designed to showcase single vineyard source wines from both the Alexander Valley and Napa Valley Oakville appellations. The goal is create wines that highlight the distinct characters, benefits and attributes derived from these site specific harvests. Goldschmidt Vineyards Cabernets are crafted with the best possible resources to achieve exceptional richness, quality and balance – the hallmarks of world-class wines.

Guest speaker Nick Goldschmidt, Owner and Winemaker

me hi rez

Owner and Winemaker, Nick Goldschmidt

Nick Goldschmidt was born and educated in New Zealand and trained in Australia.  In 1989, after spending 18 months of winemaking in Australia, New Zealand, California and South America, Nick returned to California with an amazing range of winemaking experience.  In 1990, Nick and his wife Yolyn settled down in Healdsburg, California becoming Simi’s Chief Winemaker and then Vice President in 1996.  In 1998 Nick and Yolyn established their own line of wines with the release of Goldschmidt Vineyards and Forefathers, with the goal of focusing on site specific vineyards from around the world. Having produced so many world-class wines around the globe, Nick knew exactly the vineyard sites he would choose for his wines.  The wines are all single vineyards, 100% varietal, handcraft, small production artisan wines. Learn more about Nick’s background here.

Joined periodically in the field by their five children, the Goldschmidt expertise is being passed down to the next generation, as evidenced in the wines released under the labels Chelsea Goldschmidt, Hilary Goldschmidt and Katherine Goldschmidt.

“Winemaking has been a passion that has fueled our dreams and enriched our lives. Even our children have become involved, whether by pitching in during harvest and crush or by helping pack “dad’s” bags as I head off to New Zealand and Argentina several times a year” – Nick Goldschmidt

Goldschmidt Family Photo

Goldschmidt Family

 

Let’s Taste, Learn and Enjoy® together! 

Contact your local WineStyles to RSVP for this tasting event.

Goldschmidt Vineyards
California

Cheers!

WineStyles.com

napa-valley-goldschmidt-vineyards

d’Arenberg Winery

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d’Arenberg has been ranked as one of the Top 100 Wineries in the world by Wine & Spirits Magazine six times!  Peak behind the scenes with winemaker, Chester Osborn:

Enjoy a glass of Chester’s amazing wines, join our January Wine Club!

Custodian Grenache wine bottled’Arenberg
The Custodian
Grenache
McLaren Vale, South Australia

In 1959, Francis d’Arenberg (d’Arry) Osborn began bottling d’Arenberg wines under the now famous Red Stripe label. Today, d’Arenberg is the keeper of nearly one-third of all of McLaren Vale’s mature Grenache bush vines and d’Arry has celebrated 67 consecutive vintages earning consistent critical acclaim for their coveted Grenache-based wines. Fourth generation winemaker, Chester Osborn, guides the small-batch Grenache parcels from the vintage through the gentle ‘Demoisy’ crusher, into open fermenters and then into the 19th century basket-presses. Natural minimal processing ensures maximum flavor which results in a harmless deposit in the bottle.

“When Grenache is good, you know it straight away. The nose is packed with chester osborn winemakerfresh fruit characters of raspberry, cherry and pomegranate, with complex notes of sooty black earth and cracked fennel seed in support. With time, the palate evolves from initial fresh red fruit characters into a darker brooding blackberry and Kalamata olive skin spectrum. The wine maintains its focus and drive on a long lingering finish held by a tight rhubarb-like acid line. The fine line is further supported by structured, lively tannin.”. – Chester Osborn, winemaker

Winemaker: Chester Osborn
Appellation: McLaren Vale, South Australia
Varietal Blend:  100% Grenache
Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume

EGGPLANT BRAISED IN CHORIZO TOMATO SAUCE

eggplantINGREDIENTS:
• 16 oz loose chorizo
• 1 cup diced onion
• 4 large garlic cloves, sliced
• 28 oz can tomatoes
• 1 pound Japanese eggplant (about 3)
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 tsp fresh thyme
• 1 tsp fresh oregano
• ¼ cup basil

DIRECTIONS:
• Place the tomatoes in a blender and puree until smooth.
• Slice the eggplant into 2 inch pieces.
• Over medium heat cook the chorizo until cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
• Add onion and garlic to pan and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the chorizo back to the pan with the wine. Cook for 1 minute. Pour in the tomato and bring to a boil. Add the eggplant and bring back to a boil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cover the pan, reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes add the thyme and oregano. Put cover back on and cook for 10 more minutes, or until eggplant is tender.
• Chop the basil and sprinkle over the top. 4 servings. Serve as main dish or side dish.
© Photo and recipe courtesy of Chateau Ste Michelle.

January Wine Club pairing recipe

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Blackberry Braised Short Ribs

recipe ShirazINGREDIENTS:
• 6 short ribs
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 1 cup carrot, chopped
• 1 ½ cup red wine (Shiraz, Merlot, or Cab)
• 1 ½ cup beef stock
• 2 tbsp tomato Paste
• 2 pints blackberries

DIRECTIONS:
• Using a pot with a lid that will fit all 6 short ribs comfortably, heat it over medium high heat.
• Preheat an oven to 375 ℉.
• When pot has properly heated, add a tsp of oil, and then sear off short ribs until they are brown and caramelized lightly, about 3 minutes. Remove ribs.
• Add carrots and onions to pot and cook until just starting to caramelize, about 10 minutes. Put in tomato paste and cook 1 minute longer. Pour in wine and stock and bring mixture to a boil. Put in ribs and 1 pint of blackberries, cover and place in the preheated oven. Cook until ribs are tender. This will take between 2 and 3 hours, depending on thickness of ribs. Check liquid level periodically to ensure it doesn’t all evaporate. If more liquid is needed add more stock and wine, or just water.
• When ribs are done cooking, remove from pan and keep warm. Strain out liquid from pot. Add other pint of blackberries and simmer sauce for 10 more minutes. Season to your taste with salt and pepper.
• When serving make sure to include some blackberries with each piece of rib.
© Photo and recipe courtesy of Chateau Ste Michelle.

Shiraz Love Grass Bottled’Arenberg
The Love Grass Shiraz
McLaren Vale, South Australia

One of the undisputed kings of Australian Shiraz and Rhone varietals, d’Arenberg has managed to turn individuality into an art form by doing a whole lot of little things differently. In 1912, the original vineyards were established and a century later d’Arenberg has more than 345 acres managed by 4th generation winemaker, Chester Osborn. d’Arenberg has been ranked as one of the Top 100 Wineries in the world by Wine & Spirits Magazine six times! A wild grass, the Love Grass, often grows in the vineyards surrounding the d’Arenberg winery. During vintage, the sticky, Velcro-like, long stemmed flowers of the Love Grass affectionately attach themselves to the vineyard workers’ socks. This Shiraz will also linger with you and, as such, the family thought it fitting to name this wine ‘The Love Grass’.

chester osborn winemaker“Quite a lifted nose, with intense aromas of mulberry, plum and graphite. The round and deliciously balanced palate mirrors the nose. The wine finishes long with moderate acidity and heaps of fine, spicy tannins.”. – Chester Osborn, winemaker

Winemaker: Chester Osborn
Appellation: McLaren Vale, South Australia
Varietal Blend:  90% Shiraz, and 9 other varietals (10%)
Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume

December Wine Club pairing recipe

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Roast Pork Loin with Rosemary & Garlic

roast pork loin rosemary with garlic imageINGREDIENTS:
• 8 garlic cloves
• ¼ cup fresh rosemary leaves
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt plus more
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 four-pound boneless pork loin
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups dry white wine

DIRECTIONS:
• Preheat oven to 400° F. Finely chop garlic and rosemary with ½ teaspoon salt on a cutting board. Holding knife at an angle, drag blade over mixture until a coarse paste forms. Transfer paste to a small bowl and mix in oil.
• Place pork, fat side down, on another cutting board with a short end toward you. Holding a sharp knife parallel to board and about ½ inch up side of loin, make an incision along entire length of one side. Continue cutting, lifting meat with your free hand as you go, until loin is open and flat (or ask butcher for butterfly cut). Spread garlic mixture over inside of loin and season with salt and pepper. Roll pork tightly; using kitchen twine, tie at 1 inch intervals.
•Season pork with salt and pepper; place, fat side up, in a large shallow baking dish. Add wine; roast pork until an instant-read thermometer inserted into thickest part of loin registers 145° F, 1 ½ –2 hours. Transfer to a carving board; let rest at least 10 minutes.
• Spoon fat from surface of pan juices; discard. Slice pork; serve with pan juices.
PREPARE AHEAD: Pork can be stuffed and tied 1 day ahead. Cover and chill. Bring to room temperature before roasting. Recipe courtesy of Brunello Cucinelli Canteen in Solomeo, Italy via Bonappétit.com. © Photo by Julian Broad.

Santa Venere Speziale Rosso bottle wineMellow style logoSanta Venere
Speziale Rosso
Calabria, Italy

The site of the Santa Venere estate is a hill overlooking the Ionian Sea, and it is named after the stream of the same name that flows through the estate. Grapes here have always been cultivated in accordance with the strict dictates of organic agriculture, respecting the soil’s natural resources, characteristics and biodiversity. In the past, Marsigliana Nera grapes were frequently confused with Greco Nero (Black Greek), which is also harvested in Calabria. Grapes grown from the vineyard Speziale were harvested within the first ten days of September. Maturation was in stainless steel tanks for five months and in the bottle for two months.

Riccaro Cotarella winemaker“This purplish red wine is made from an ancient Calabria grape variety, Marsigliana Nera, and its crisp mouthfeel makes it ideal with shellfish and seafood, and also as a pre-dinner drink. Drink cold at a temperature of 55 degrees”. – Riccardo Cotarella, winemaker

Winemaker: Riccardo Cotarella
Appellation: Calabria, Italy
Varietal Blend:  100% Marsigliana Nera
Analysis: 12.0% alcohol / volume
Critical Acclaim: Reviewed and approved by Doug Frost, Master Sommelier and Master of Wine

Pumpkin, Ricotta and Arugula Bruschetta

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pumpkin bruschetta imagePerfect Thanksgiving appetizer to pair with Maison Bourgogne Blanc.

INGREDIENTS:
• Baguette
• Ricotta
• Arugula
• Roasted pumpkin (feel free to roast your own, or use your favorite pre-packed pumpkin cubes from the store)
• Honey
• Roasted pumpkin seeds (optional)
• Sea salt & fresh cracked pepper (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

• Preheat oven to 350°F, grease a baking pan, and roast your pumpkin squares according to the package directions. Once done, pull out and set aside.
• OPTIONAL: If you want to add roasted pumpkin seeds to your bruschetta, spread the seeds in a single layer on a greased baking pan and roast for 30 minutes (or until dried out). Pull out, toss on a little more olive oil, some salt and pepper, or whatever spices you are feeling, and put back in for an additional 20 minutes.
• Turn the oven to broil and while you wait for it to pre-heat, cut your baguette into 1 – 1.5 inch slices. Drizzle a little olive oil or butter on each side and place on a sheet pan. When the oven is ready, place the sheet pan on the top rack of the oven, closest to the broiler, and keep an eye on the toast as it can brown quickly. Depending on your oven, 2 minutes on each side should do it, but it is totally up to preference.
• Cover toasted bread with roughly 2 tablespoons of ricotta. Top with roasted pumpkin and arugula. Drizzle with honey and finish with a small handful of roasted pumpkin seeds, a pinch of sea salt and fresh cracked pepper.  © Photo and recipe courtesy of Lauren Kelp at KJ.com

Burgundy Blanc wineSilky styleMasion L’Envoyé
Bourgogne Blanc
Chardonnay
Burgundy, France

While Mâcon is known for its fresh, simple whites, recent investments by top Burgundian producers have resulted in more conscientious winemaking. The Mâconnais district’s 21 mile stretch boasts a geology not dissimilar to the famed Côte de Beaune to its north. Mâcon’s epicenter, Mont de Pouilly, rises gently with alkaline clay covering a stark limestone base, a nirvana for the Chardonnay vines that laze smugly along the river Saône. The grapes were hand-picked on September 7th then pressed direct, settled overnight, and fermented with indigenous yeast in seasoned barriques. The wine matured for 12-14 months prior to bottling.

Mark Tarlov - Co Founder“From two mature vineyards in La Roche Vineuse, this is a classic Chardonnay with a nose of citrus fruits and lemon zest. The weighty, textured mid-palate boasts flavors of grilled nuts and stone fruit, while a long line of vibrant acidity enlivens the finish.” – Mark Tarlov, Co-Founder

Appellation: Burgundy, France
Varietal Blend:  100% Chardonnay
Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Critical Acclaim: 88 pts. Wine & Spirits Best Buy/Year’s Best White Burgundy List; Reviewed and approved by Doug Frost, Master Sommelier and Master of Wine

Zinfandel Wine Cupcakes

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zinfandel-wine-cupcakesINGREDIENTS:
• 1 box Betty Crocker™ SuperMoist™ devil’s food cake mix
• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup Zinfandel wine
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup miniature semisweet chocolate chips
FROSTING:
•  6 cups powdered sugar
•  1/3 cup butter, softened
•  1/3 cup unsweetened baking cocoa
•  1/8 teaspoon salt
•  ¼ cup Zinfandel wine
GARNISH:
• Chocolate curls and/or Valentine candies

DIRECTIONS:Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pan). Place paper baking cup in each of 24 regular-size muffin cups. Make cake batter as directed on box, using cake mix, water,  ¼ cup wine, oil and eggs. Stir in chocolate chips. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups (about two-thirds full).
Bake 20 to 22 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans 10 minutes; remove from pans to cooling rack. Cool completely, about 30 minutes.
In large bowl, beat powdered sugar, butter, cocoa and salt with electric mixer on low speed until blended. Beat in ¼ cup wine. If frosting is too thick, beat in more wine a few drops at a time. Frost cupcakes. Garnish with chocolate curls and /or Valentine candies.
24 servings. Recipe courtesy of Betty Crocker.

Cline_Sonoma_ZinfandelBold_stickerCline Family Cellars
Zinfandel
Sonoma County, CA

Occupying 50 acres in the heart of Sonoma Valley, the Indian Springs Vineyard produces the grapes for Cline Cellars Sonoma Zinfandel. The vineyard sits on the west side of the Valley of the Moon, near Kenwood, California, and the vines are currently being converted from trellis to head-training and are lightly irrigated. This region of central Sonoma County is known for its rich, loamy soil, and the resulting fruit has big berry flavors and firm tannins. Individual lots of fruit for this Zinfandel were harvested separately according to ripeness and balance of acidity. This wine pairs well with pork shoulder, roasted root vegetables, or red curry chicken.

charlie-tsegeletos

Winemaker, Charlie Tsegeletos

“This Sonoma Zinfandel shows concentrated spicy strawberry, firm tannin structure and a balanced acidity. It has a mouth coating richness and depth and a subtle vanilla quality that compliments the dark fruit flavors.” – Charlie Tsegeletos, winemaker

Winemaker: Charlie Tsegeletos
Appellation: Sonoma County, CA
Varietal Blend:  100% Zinfandel
Analysis: 16.0% alcohol / volume, 3.85 pH
Critical Acclaim: Reviewed and approved by Doug Frost, Master Sommelier and Master of Wine

December Wine Club pairing recipe

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December Wine Club WineStyles

MACAY-bowChateau Macay
Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon
Cotes de Bourg, France

The vineyard of Château Macay is situated in Samonac, in the heart of the Côtes de Bourg appellation, 30 km from Bordeaux, on the  right bank of Gironde estuary.  The name Macay comes from the patronymic of a Scottish officer’s surname, Mac Kay.  The castle Macay was founded by the Gagnernot family in 1740.  In 1850, this property was part of seven adjacent farms and a real wine village with a cellar on two floors, its cooper’s trade was surmounted by a tower.  The “Forge de Macay” was the central point of the property.  In 2012, Frédérique and Hervé Descourviéres became the proud new owners of Château Macay.

winemaker-Olivier-Dauga

“This wine has a very beautiful intense, clear garnet red color.  It offers a rich nose of aromatic blackberry fruits and grilled spicy notes.  Its palate is generous and aromatic, soft and fresh with excellent balance, elegant tannins and spicy notes on the finish.  Pairs perfectly with toasted lamb skewers or lamb chops” – Olivier Dauga, winemaker

Winemaker: Olivier Dauga
Appellation: Cotes de Bourg, France
Varietal Blend:  40% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Fran, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon
Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume, 3.7 pH
Critical Acclaim: Reviewed and approved by Doug Frost, Master Sommelier and Master of Wine

Lamb Curry with Basmati Rice

Lamb-curry-recipeINGREDIENTS:
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 lbs (900g) lamb fillet, cut into 1” cubes
•  6 large tomatoes, roughly chopped
•  2 onions, roughly chopped
•  3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
•  2 green chillies, finely chopped
•  1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
•  1 tbsp ground turmeric
•  1/2 tbsp ground cumin
•  1 tbsp chilli powder
•  1 tbsp plain flour
•  14 fl. oz. (400ml) coconut milk
•  1 pint (600ml) chicken stock
•  9 oz. (250g) baby spinach leaves
•  1 pomegranate, seeded
•  7 oz (200g) plain yogurt
•  salt and freshly ground black pepper
•  steamed basmati rice, to serve

DIRECTIONS:
•  Heat a large saucepan and add one tablespoon of the vegetable oil and then the lamb.  Cook over a high heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the lamb is golden brown all over, then remove and set aside.
•  Reduce the heat and add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil.  Add the onions, garlic, chillies and ginger and fry for 2-3 minutes, until golden and softened.  Add all the turmeric, garam masala, cumin and chili powder and fry, stirring well, for one minute. Add the flour and cook for a further minute.  Add the tomatoes and coconut milk and heat to bring to a simmer. Add the lamb and enough chicken stock to just cover the lamb. Stir well, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze and release any residue at the bottom of the pan.
•  Heat the mixture until simmering, then cover and cook on a low heat for about one hour, or until the lamb is tender and cooked through.  Skim off any excess fat from the surface of the sauce, then add the spinach and pomegranate. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spinach has wilted.  Add the yogurt, season to taste, with salt and freshly ground black pepper and stir well.  Serve on warmed plates with steamed basmati rice on side.    Recipe courtesy of Vinadeis.