Tag Archives: winestyles

September Sweet Club: Iowa

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Sweet Wine ClubLate Harvest VidalHeron Hill Winery
Late Harvest Vidal Blanc Reserve
Finger Lakes, New York

NECTAR WINE STYLE

A very refined and balanced dessert wine. The aromatics are concentrated but not overwhelming with floral notes, pineapple, peach, cantaloupe and honey. The palate is medium bodied with fresh acidity, balancing the sweetness and making this wine a lovely sipper.

  • Varietal: 100% Vidal Blanc
  • Vineyard: Keuka Estate
  • Appellation: Finger Lakes, New York
  • Analysis: 10% alcohol / volume
  • pH: 3.14
  • Total Acid: 9.0 g/L – 0.9%
  • Residual Sugar: 74 g/L – 7.2%
  • Fermentation: Stainless Steel – after whole cluster pressing of the fruit, the juice was cool fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks
  • Malo-Lactic Fermentation: 0%
  • Production: 152 Cases of 12 Bottles
  • Winemaker: Jordan Harris

FOOD PAIRING:
A wonderful wine on its own or with medium sweetness desserts like fresh fruit and custard, créme brûlée with persimmon, or a cheese course. If you are feeling indulgent, pair with foie gras.

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Sweet wines from our ‘Nectar’ section will pair well with any rich or blue cheeses. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

VINEYARD INFORMATION:
Keuka Estate – the winery’s on site vineyard comprising of 10 acres of Riesling, 1 acre of Vidal Blanc and 2.5 acres of Cabernet Franc. Most of the vineyard is a relatively gentle east facing slope towards Keuka Lake; at one of the coolest points along the lake due to the gap in the hills behind the winery, which allows cool air to flow through their site, draining down to the lake. The soils comprise of shale and loam, allowing for a very well drained and mineral driven site; these, combined with the cooler temperatures, lead to fruit with wonderful purity, mineral expression and fresh acidity.

VINTAGE CONDITIONS:
Many growers may have been a little worried about drought like conditions through the peak of the summer in July and August, but it did remain cool enough to keep the vines healthy and thriving through the summer.

The season began like it often does with sub-freezing temperatures coming later in May. Luckily most varieties and pretty much all vinifera was delayed from a cool and wet spring, so there was little impact on them. The main variety that was impacted was Concord which is not made at Heron Hill (they do however grow some for juice). Once the season warmed up, it never really stopped. That wet spring gave the vines the water they needed to catch up in the season that was nearly ideal and created almost no disease/pest management issues. It also allowed for slow, steady vine growth that was balanced throughout the entire season. 

Harvest remained dry and warm with cool nights. The result was the ability to allow flavors to develop slowly but progressively while maintaining acidity and structure. The fruit that was harvested had significantly higher than normal brix levels and, in some cases, record breaking, while still having high acidity and fabulous concentration and flavors. A great year. 

WINEMAKING:
The Late Harvest Vidal was harvested as slightly concentrated fresh fruit from slight dehydration on the vine prior to harvesting at a ripe 27.6 brix with still bright acidity. After whole cluster pressing the fruit, the juice was cool fermented in stainless steel and then continued to age in stainless steel after racking once. The wine was never fined (not necessary) and was simply cold stabilized before being sterile filtered and bottled.

Information and photos © Heron Hill Winery – All Rights Reserved.

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September Premium Wine Club

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Bold wine Style logoBEW_2018-CV-Reserve-Cab-SauvBroken Earth Winery
CV Reserve 2018
Cabernet Sauvignon
Paso Robles, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

Beginning with the nose, there are notes of blackcurrants, pine needles, along with underlying oak spices that paint the picture of international appeal. This cohesion of integrated flavors easily translates to a mouth feel full of blueberry sensations and silky tannins. The linear finish leaves a rejuvenated palate that is not overwhelmed by over structured tannin, showing that a bigger wine is not always better.

WINE DETAILS:

  • Analysis: 14.9% alcohol / volume
  • Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
  • pH: 3.67
  • Residual Sugar: 2.0 g/L
  • Total Acidity: 6.2 g/L
  • Harvest Date: October 2018
  • Bottling Date: January 2021
  • Winemaker: Chris Cameron
  • Awards: 92 pts. – Wine Enthusiast, 2018

WINEMAKERS 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 2018, we achieved perfect fruit ripeness, resulting in a wine of outstanding depth. There are many special dishes and occasions that can pair with this wine, but in our humble opinion, only one reigns supreme: seared lamb. Take three inch lamb cutlets, brush with olive oil, black pepper, and garlic, then sear from the bottom and quickly flip to finish. Only new oak is used and the average aging is 23 months.” – Winemaker, Chris Cameron

Bold wine Style logoBEW_2018 CV Reserve Cab Franc_DBroken Earth Winery
CV Reserve 2018
Cabernet Franc
Paso Robles, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

This crop was a much anticipated one. It is 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.

WINE DETAILS:

  • Analysis: 15.2% alcohol / volume
  • Varietal: Cabernet Franc
  • pH: 3.58
  • Residual Sugar: 2.0 g/L
  • Total Acidity: 5.52 g/L
  • Harvest Date: October 2018
  • Bottling Date: March 2022
  • Winemaker: Chris Cameron
  • Awards: 90 pts. – Wine Enthusiast, 2018

WINEMAKERS NOTES:
“Cabernet Franc is a significant Bordeaux variety that figures prominently in the “right bank” styles of Pomerol and Sanitt-Émilion although it is rarely released there on its own. Paso Robles’ climate has the ability to get it ripe on its own and we are confident, and excited to release this 100% varietal. Only new oak is used and the average aging is 23 months.” – Winemaker, Chris Cameron

ABOUT BROKEN EARTH WINERY:
50th-Year-Logo_Green-800x802

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 Vineyard was a grower 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.  They continue this tradition 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.

Information and Photos © Broken Earth Winery – All Rights Reserved.

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August Beer Club: Iowa

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Marshall D's-Beer-Can-ImageAllerton Brewing
Marshall D’s
Hefeweizen
Independence, Iowa 

This traditional German style beer is light, refreshing and perfect for warm weather. It has balanced banana and clove flavors with a grainy-sweet malt character. A little darker than your typical Hefeweizen, Marshall D’s is sure to please with its prominent esters typical of the German beer its named after.

ABV: 5.6% alcohol / volume
IBU: 12
SRM: 7
Fermentables: Pilsner Malt, Wheat Malt, Crystal 40L
Hops: Saaz
Style: Wheat Beer
Beer Style at WineStyles: Fruity & Spicy

ABOUT ALLERTON BREWING:
It all started as a hobby for Lucas in his college apartment at Iowa State University – little did Brenna (his now wife) know at the time, this hobby would grow into a full blown obsession. After graduating Iowa State, Lucas and Brenna moved to Oconomowoc, Wisconsin where Lucas attended Barley to Barrel – a program specifically catered to aspiring brewery owners. Lucas says his biggest takeaway was that he needed a partner. Shortly there after, the couple moved to Independence, Iowa where Lucas teamed up with Brandon Miken and Pete Gaumer to create Allerton Brewing Company. Today, the brewery is fully owned and operated by Pete and Lucas. Learn more about the their story here, and follow them on Untappd.

Photos and information © Allerton Brewing – All Rights Reserved.

Banana Seat Wheat-Beer-CanNoCoast Beer Co. and Crawford Brew Works
Banana Seat Wheat
Oskaloosa, Iowa

Drink Bananas. NoCoast Beer Co. of Oskaloosa and Crawford Brew Works of Quad Cities have teamed up to bring you Banana Seat Wheat. American grown wheat and barley brewed with bananas. A refreshing golden yellow wheat beer to enjoy while cooling off from your ride.

ABV: 5.6% alcohol / volume
IBU: 19
Style: Wheat Beer
Beer Style at WineStyles: Fruity & Spicy

crazybeachesIPANoCoast Beer Co.
Crazy Beaches
Hazy Coconut IPA
Oskaloosa, Iowa

No one likes a shady beach. But a crazy one? At landlocked NoCoast, life’s a (proverbial) beach, they have been playing in the sand. Crazy Beaches is a Hazy IPA heavily hopped with dank tropical goodness and coconut flavor.  It’s yellow and hazy like a high-humidity summer day.

ABV: 7.2% alcohol / volume
IBU: 36
Malt: Vienna, 2 Row, Oats, and Wheat
Hops: Amarillo, Azacca, and Mosaic
Style: Hazy IPA with Coconut
Beer Style at WineStyles: Hoppy
Serving: Serve at 41ºF

Fruit Patch-Pineapple-Mango-SourNoCoast Beer Co.
Fruit Patch Sour
Pineapple Mango
Oskaloosa, Iowa

New to the NoCoast Beer Co. lineup, this spritz-y sour elixir gives a little pucker and puts a fruity punch in your glass. Tropical fruit has taken root in the Fruit Patch. Pineapple and Mango come together with tart ale eccentricities to create a perfect pairing for a warm sunny day.

ABV: 5.5% alcohol / volume
IBU: 5
Style: Sour with Pineapple and Mango added
Beer Style at WineStyles: Sour, Tart & Funky

Hop-Botany-Willamette-BeerNoCoast Beer Co.
Hop Botany
Hazy IPA Willamette
Oskaloosa, Iowa

Let the plants shine! Hop Botany single hop hazy IPA is brewed with 100% Willamette hops grown by Willamette Valley Hops – these hops are one of the most iconic North American hop varietals that put the Pacific Northwest on the map as one of the best hop growing regions worldwide. 

“NoCoast would like to take a little time to let the plants shine. The great beer we brew could never be brought to you without a little help from our friends. Beginning in 2023 we will be working with our hop supplier to showcase the unique character of individual hop varietals. Throughout 2023 we will create a series of single batch single hop hazy IPA’s. The Hop Botany Hazy IPA series will give you the chance to try, taste and admire the qualities each unique hop varietal brings to brewing great beer.” – NoCoast Beer Co. Team

ABV: 6.3% alcohol / volume
Hops: Willamette
Style: IPA – New England / Hazy
Beer Style at WineStyles: Hoppy

ABOUT NOCOAST BEER CO.:
Rooted in Midwest pride, NoCoast Beer Co. lives off the motto, “Friends over trends, land over sand, and beer over everything!”. In 2016, Head Brewer, Chuck Crabtree put together a crew of like-minded, passionate, beer enthusiasts and raised their glasses to the official launch of the brewery. Today, the NoCoast facility houses brewing, cold brewed coffee, and mobile canning operations. Learn more about the team behind the beers here, and follow them on Untappd.

Photos and information © NoCoast Beer Co. – All Rights Reserved.

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August Cheese Club: Iowa

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Cheese ClubGoat Gouda_August Cheese ClubCentral Coast Creamery Goat Gouda Paso Robles, California

Central Coast Creamery’s flagship cheese bursts of fruity and caramel aromas that will transport you to the sun-soaked hills of California the moment you cut into it. Its ivory-colored paste is semi-firm, yet crumbly, tacky, and slightly chalky and crystalline. It has starchy flavors of tart apples, grass and crusty bread. This award winning gouda is made with 100% goat’s milk and is aged for 4 to 6 months. Awards:
  • 2016 – American Cheese Society (ACS) – 2nd Place Award
  • 2016 – World Cheese Championship – 3rd Place Award
  • 2014 – World Cheese Championship – 3rd Place Award
  • 2013 – United States Cheese Championship – Best of Class
  • 2011 – United States Cheese Championship – 2nd Place Award
  • 2010 – Best of Show – American Dairy Goat Association (ADGA)
  • 2010 – American Cheese Society (ACS) – 3rd Place Award
WINE & CRAFT BEER PAIRINGS: What grows together, goes together! All of our August Wine Club wines will pair beautifully with this cheese. As for beer, enjoy with a crisp Amber Ale. WINESTYLES: Bold or Crisp BEERSTYLES: Crisp & Clean CENTRAL COAST CREAMERY: Located near California’s coast in Paso Robles, Central Coast Creamery is gaining momentum in the domestic artisan cheese category. At the helm is Reggie Jones, a veteran of the dairy industry, who has worked in various aspects of quality control, production management, whey refining and sales of cheese cultures and enzymes. After considering their next venture, Reggie’s family decided to make the move to California’s Central Coast, well-known for its support of artisan foods and wineries. Looking back into the region’s history, one will find that the area was once home to a number of dairies. However, during the 1970’s, most of the region’s independent dairy farms lost their steam, and were extinct by the end of the decade. The Jones family, looking to rejuvenate these roots, started Central Coast Creamery. 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. Learn more > Information © Central Coast Creamery and Zuercher & Co. – All Rights Reserved.

raspberry-habanero-frontPRiMO Raspberry Habanero Preserves Denver, Colorado

These raspberry habanero preserves have a straight up red raspberry flavor with delightful tropical heat that unfolds into a long satisfying finish. On average, PRiMO cooks their preserves for one minute or less, so the fruit’s natural flavor shines in every bite. PAIRING RECOMMENDATIONS: Pairs great with this month’s Goat Gouda and a glass of wine from any of our August Wine Club selections. It also pairs beautifully with a soft-ripened buttery cheese- think Delice de Bourgogne, Camembert, Kunik (Nettle Meadow Farm) and semi-soft, washed-rind cheeses such as Epoisses and Taleggio. For beer, reach for a crisp Amber Ale as well. WINESTYLES: Bold or Crisp BEERSTYLES: Crisp & Clean PRiMO: PRiMO is a small independent producer that create their own unique flavors and recipes and lovingly hand-craft them in small batches. They obsess over every detail- from the ingredients they source to how they might pair with cheese, salumi and wine, and everything in between.  Learn more > Information © PRiMO and Zuercher & Co. – All Rights Reserved.

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

If you enjoy pairing cheese with wine, this is your club!  Each month you’ll discover specialty and artisan cheeses to pair with your Wine Club. Monthly cheese selections are chosen by your local WineStyles participating location. It’s the perfect opportunity to Taste, Learn and Enjoy® amazing artisan cheese every month! Only $19.99/month and your wine won’t be lonely!  Click to learn more >

August Sweet Club: Iowa

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Sweet Wine ClubBroken-Earth_LaBelle_bottleBroken Earth Winery
La Belle
Muscat
Paso Robles, California

NECTAR WINE STYLE

A new adventure with an old friend. La Belle emphasizes all things lovely about the Muscatel (or more commonly known as Muscat) varietal that the Broken Earth team has adored, yet unfortunately forgotten about over the years. This Muscatel offers insight into a whole new world of what can be achieved when this grape is produced in a new style. It’s a wine that can fly solo, but with its acidity and off dry approachability can stand up to many cuisines. The best attribute being, this wine can stand up to spice and sour dishes, such as Korean barbecue or various curries. Pairs well with any farmer’s market fresh summer dish.

Varietal: Muscatel
Analysis: 11.12% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.36
TA: 6.0 g/L
RS: N/A

Winemaking Notes:
California Certified Sustainable logo“When popped and poured, the Lily of the Valley florals and deeply aromatic esters erupt out of the glass with the most delicate of force. The effervescence eager to be set free, it delivers with a cloudburst of ripe peach and other stone fruit, enchanting the utmost reaches of the palate. Instead of the wine continuing on with enveloping levels of overwhelming sweetness, it makes an acute turn in the direction of spritely acidity. A graceful summer porch sipper, acting as a foil to those beastly reds so commonly found in Paso Robles and throughout California.” – Winemaker, Chris Cameron

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Sweet wines from our ‘Nectar’ section will pair well with an herbal cheese. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Broken_Earth_MissStella_bottleBroken Earth Winery
Miss Stella
Muscat
Paso Robles, California

NECTAR WINE STYLE

This style is technically called a “Mistella” but is classified by the TTB as an “Angelica”. It has a pale apricot color and would suit anything from fresh fruit and berries to dishes with a syrup or sugar glaze. This is a chance to be daring! 

Analysis: 16.7% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.86
TA: 5.1
RS: 173 g/L

Winemaking Notes:
California Certified Sustainable logo“Miss Stella— This is a Mistella style (fortified grape juice) made from Black Muscat grapes. It is quite pungent on the nose and very floral with hints of lychee. The juice itself has not been fermented so it is very sweet. It is 16.5% alcohol (due to addition of fortifying spirit) which balances the sweetness nicely.” – Winemaker, Chris Cameron

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Sweet wines from our ‘Nectar’ section will pair well with a soft cheese, such as a brie. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

About Broken Earth Winery:
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.

Information and photos © Broken Earth Winery – All Rights Reserved.

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Broken Earth Cabernet Sauvignon

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French-Dip-Sandwich-House-of-Nash-EatsSlow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

INGREDIENTS:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 ½ to 3 pounds beef chuck roast
  • kosher salt
  • freshly ground pepper
  • 2 (1-ounce) packages dry onion soup mix
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 (14.5-ounce) cans beef broth
  • 6-8 slices Swiss or Provolone cheese
  • 6-8 crusty rolls like ciabatta

DIRECTIONS:

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating, generously season all sides of the chuck roast with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper.
  • When the oil starts to shimmer, carefully place the roast in the hot pan and sear it on all sides by letting it sit without moving for a minute or two on each side before flipping it. Searing won’t take very long – you just want to quickly brown the roast to add flavor and seal in the juices.
  • Transfer the roast and the pan juices to your slow cooker. Sprinkle onion soup mix over the roast and add water and beef broth. Cook on high for 4-6 hours or on low for 8-10 hours.
  • When the meat is so tender that it shreds easily with a fork, remove the roast from the slow cooker and shred. Serve by piling the shredded meat onto sliced, crusty rolls with a slice of Swiss cheese. Toast the cheese and top bun under the broiler until the cheese melts and the bun starts toasting. Serve with the juices from the slow cooker as au jus for dipping.

© Recipe courtesy of House of Nash Eats.

AUGUST WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoSignature_19_CabSauv_TastingNotesBroken Earth Winery
Cabernet Sauvignon
Paso Robles, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

This Cabernet Sauvignon has aromas of Maraschino cherries and a tannic mouthfeel with notes of chocolate, cherries, leather, and tobacco. This wine pairs well with rich red meats, like ribeye, prime rib, and roast beef.

WINE DETAILS:

  • Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
  • pH: 3.45
  • Total Acid: 7.42 g/l
  • Residual Sugar: 2.0 g/l
  • Harvest Date: Oct. 2019
  • Bottling Date: March 2022
  • Awards: 91 pts. – Wine Enthusiast

WINEMAKING NOTES:
California Certified Sustainable logo“For our Estate range of wines, we take the best parcels of each variety and individually handle them to allow the true personalities of each block to be preserved. This wine has the benefit of having our most prestigious Cabernet Sauvignon blocks as part of its blend. Blocks 4C and 4D form 33% of this wine. These blocks are normally designated for our Reserve Cabernets but were chosen for our Estate wine this vintage.

The fruit was harvested over a period of 16 days commencing in October 2019, with dates depending on clonal and site differences to ensure all components are at their peak. Following fermentation, the wine was transferred to new French oak barriques with tight grain for 17 months on average before blending and preparation for bottling.” – Winemaker, Chris Cameron

Information and Photos © Broken Earth Winery – All Rights Reserved.

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Broken Earth Limited Release Vermentino

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Grilled-Romaine-Caesar-Family-Style-FoodGrilled Romaine Lettuce Caesar Salad

INGREDIENTS:

 Caesar salad dressing:
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 grated garlic clove
  • 2–3 oil-packed anchovies finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Romaine Salad:

  • 2 heads romaine lettuce hearts
  • extra virgin olive oil
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

DIRECTIONS:

  • For the Dressing: Combine all ingredients for the dressing in a bowl. Whisk together until smooth and combined. Alternatively, place the ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend, or place in a lidded jar and shake well. The dressing can be made up to 5 days ahead. Store refrigerated.
  • Make the Salad: Trim a slim piece off the stem end of each romaine head — be sure to keep the stem intact. Remove any outer leaves that are damaged or discolored.
  • Cut each romaine heart in half.
  • Drizzle olive oil over the cut sides of the lettuce, or use a pastry brush. Don’t be shy about the quantity of oil — it adds flavor, color and helps the lettuce to release from the hot pan. Sprinkle some salt and black pepper over the cut sides.
  • Place a large 12-inch skillet (non-stick or cast iron) over medium-heat heat. When a drop of water sizzles in the pan, add the romaine hearts, cut-side down. Cook until the lettuce is browned and smells pleasantly nutty, 3-5 minutes.
  • Using tongs, gently transfer the romaine halves to a serving platter. Drizzle some of the dressing generously over the lettuce and sprinkle with the cheese. Serve the salad with a knife and fork, with the remaining dressing on the side.

© Recipe and Photo courtesy of Family Style Food. All rights reserved.

AUGUST WINE CLUB:

Crisp Wine StyleLR_20_Vermentino_BottleBroken Earth Winery
Vermentino 2020
Limited Release
Paso Robles, California

CRISP WINE STYLE

The release of this wine has been met with great acclaim, including a 93 point (and Editor’s Choice) rating in Wine Enthusiast. A great drink on its own, it also pairs wonderfully with many types of foods. For those who enjoy sardines, this is a real surprise.

WINE DETAILS:

  • Varietals: Vermentino
  • Analysis: 13.64% alcohol / volume
  • pH: 3.36
  • Residual Sugar: 2.0 g/l
  • Total Acid: 5.9 g/l
  • Harvest Date: September 2020
  • Bottling Date: May 2021
  • Awards: 93 points – Wine Enthusiast , 2020

WINEMAKING NOTES:
California Certified Sustainable logo“It is considered that Vermentino found its origins in Italy, confirmed recently by DNA Typing. It is prevalent in the region of Liguria but has gained much prominence on the island of Sardinia and more recently Tuscany. Vermentino has started to emerge in new world producers from Australia and California. The variety’s ability to adapt to a range of climates has great appeal and it certainly has found a home in the Paso Robles region.

Our Estate Vermentino Block 3F was planted in 2012 and the 5.02 acres has 10’ x 5’ spacings and utilizes a simple vertical shoot positioning (VSP) canopy. The variety enjoys the warmth of the region and typically ripens early, usually producing wines around 13 – 13.5% alcohol. The 2020 Vermentino was harvested at 24.1 Brix and underwent an extended ferment at a controlled, quite low temperature of 60ºF.

The cooler ferment guarantees the retention of the more subtle aromas and flavors that are typically absent in warmer conditions in the cellar. This wine has exhibited the greatest depth and complexity so far and its amazing texture shows how versatile the variety can be. Starting with lifted citrus – like aromas, the prettier characters emerge as the wine opens up. Hints of orange peel, elderflower and green melons lead into an equally enticing palate. Great length of flavor, bright acidity and the tiniest hint of skins at the finish exemplify the ‘complete’ wine.

The wine is produced using reductive techniques, employing the only totally inert gas membrane press in the USA at the time. Oak is not used to ensure freshness is maintained and the fruit harmony is not disrupted.” – Winemaker, Chris Cameron

Information © Broken Earth Winery – All Rights Reserved.

Wine club logoJoin 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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August Wine Club Pairing Recipe

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Grilled Sausages with Summer Vegetables

INGREDIENTS:

  • ¾ cup peach preserves
  • ½ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons minced fresh ginger root
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • dash hot pepper sauce, optional
  • 4 medium sweet red peppers
  • 1 medium eggplant
  • 3 small zucchini
  • 2 small yellow summer squash
  • 12 hot Italian pork or turkey sausage links (4 ounces each)

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Place the first 5 ingredients in a blender; if desired, add pepper sauce. Cover and process until blended.
  2. Cut peppers lengthwise in half; remove seeds. Cut eggplant lengthwise into ½ inch thick slices. Cut zucchini and yellow squash lengthwise into quarters. Place all vegetables in a large bowl; drizzle with ½ cup of the sauce and toss to coat.
  3. Place vegetables on a greased grill rack. Grill, covered, over medium heat 8-10 minutes or until tender and lightly charred, turning once. Cool slightly. Reduce grill temperature to medium-low heat.
  4. Cut vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Toss with additional ¼ cup sauce; keep warm.
  5. Grill sausages, covered, over medium-low heat 15-20 minutes or until a thermometer reads 160°F for pork sausages (165°F for turkey sausages), turning occasionally. Remove sausages from grill; toss with remaining sauce. Serve with vegetables.

© Recipe courtesy of Nancy Daugherty on Taste of Home.
© Photo courtesy of  Taste of Home – All rights reserved.

AUGUST WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoSignature_19_CabFranc_TastingNotesBroken Earth Winery
Cabernet Franc
Paso Robles, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

From Broken Earth’s estate vineyards, this crop of Cabernet Franc 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 wines brooding nature. Bright natural acidity will ensure this wine ages for many years.

WINE DETAILS:

  • Varietal: Cabernet Franc
  • Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
  • pH: 3.47
  • Total Acid: 7.5
  • Residual Sugar: 3.0 g/L
  • Harvest: September
  • Bottling: March
  • Awards: 92 Points – Wine Enthusiast, 2019

WINEMAKING NOTES: 
“Cabernet Franc is a significant Bordeaux variety that figures prominently in the “right bank” styles of Pomerol and St. Émilion, although it is rarely released there on its own. Paso Robles’ climate has the ability to get it ripe on its own and we are confident, and excited, to release this 100% varietal.” – Winemaker, Chris Cameron

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 Vineyard was a grower 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.  They continue this tradition 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.

Information & Photos © Broken Earth Winery – All Rights Reserved.

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July Collector’s Wine Club: Iowa

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Collectors Wine Club2013-La-Ferme-Du_Mont-Capelan-Red-bottleLa Ferme Du Mont
Châteauneuf-Du-Pape Rouge
Capelan 2013
Rhône Valley, France

BOLD WINE STYLE

Black cherries, currants, licorice, graphite and dried Provencal herbs all emerge from this medium to full-bodied, focused, pure, yet nicely concentrated Châteauneuf-du-Pape. It has high quality tannin, solid mid-palate depth and should drink well for a decade. 

Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre
Country: France
Region: Southern Rhône – Rhône Valley
Appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Winemaker: Stéphane Vedeau
Accolades: 91-93 Wine Advocate, 2016

Vinification and Maturation:
An exceptional vintage by its originality. A Châteauneuf-du-Pape from the most beautiful complex plots, precise, balanced and distinguished. The terroir is made up of rolled pebbles and multiple stone soils find their originality in a high proportion of complex clay. An unusual vintage, more as a northern vintage in its balance: families of red woodland fruits from Burgundy, bringing a certain paradoxical tension for the region. Vinified at the estate, wines are produced from hand-harvested grapes that are partially destemmed and in vats without SO2. Fairly long vatting (6 to 8 weeks) is carried out with gentle extractions and regular work of the lees. After a very slow pressing, wines are blended and aged 18 months, a proportion in new barrels (70%).

Bold wine Style logo2016-La-Ferme-Du-Mont-Vendange-Rouge-bottleLa Ferme Du Mont
Châteauneuf-Du-Pape Rouge
Vendage Rouge 2016
Rhône Valley, France

BOLD WINE STYLE

Deep purple red in color, this wine is aromatic with notes of crisp red and black fruits, caramel licorice and lightly waxed Mediterranean spices. The palate is smooth and racy.

Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 80% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah
Country: France
Region: Southern Rhône, Rhône Valley
Appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Winemaker: Stéphane Vedeau
Accolades: 93 Wine Advocate, 2018; 91-93 Jeb Dunnuck, 2017; 90-92 Vinous, 2018

Vinification and Maturation:
2016 harvest was noted be one of harmony and fluidity. Located on a small terrace on the northeast side of the appellation, the rolled pebble floors find their originality in a large proportion of saffron where the Grenache will express even more fruit. Grapes hand-harvested from 80 to 100-year-old vines, mostly destemmed and vats without SO2. Vatting lasts 5 to 8 weeks and is carried out at a temperature of 22-30°C / 71.6-86°F with gentle extractions. The objective is to maintain a fresh ridge from start to finish without losing the finesse of the tannins. After a slow pneumatic pressing, gout wines and presses are assembled according to the vintages and the 12-month aging combines both a small proportion of wood (10%) and a traditional aging in concrete vats (90%).

Silky style2021-La-Ferme-du-Mont-Vendange-White-bottleLa Ferme Du Mont
Châteauneuf-Du-Pape Rouge
Vendage Blanc 2021
Rhône Valley, France

SILKY WINE STYLE

Bright yellow in color with green reflections. An extremely complex nose made of quince, white truffle and small flowers.

Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 60% Grenache Blanc, 30% Roussanne, 7% Bourboulenc, 3% Clairette
Total Acidity: 4.2 g/L
Total Sulphur: 55 mg/L
Country: France
Region: Southern Rhône, Rhône Valley
Appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Winemaker: Stéphane Vedeau
Accolades: 92 Jeb Dunnock, 2022

Vinification and Maturation:
The legendary Châteauneuf-du-Pape terroir made up of famous rolled pebbles allows La Ferme du Mont to express their passion for Grenache and Roussanne from different regions, and Bourboulenc with a touch of Clairette. Located on a small terrace on the northeastern slope of the appellation, the soils consist of molasses (pebbles), clay, a little sand and crushed mineral stones. Manual harvest, severe and rigorous sorting follows. The grape varieties have different maturities, which is why La Ferme du Mont staggers the harvest. The Grenaches are harvested at the beginning of September, then 4 weeks later the Roussane follows. The berries undergo direct pressing and are fermented in a barrel made with wood from the Tronçais forest. Fermentation and aging in this piece of wood with very fine, slightly heated grains provides an envelope of chestnut all in softness and harmony.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
La Ferme du Mont in Southern Rhône boasts a mosaic of vineyards, now owned and vinified by Stéphane Vedeau. Formerly a soccer player in Paris. Stéphane shifted to winemaking in 1989 and spent 15 years making award-winning wines in the Languedoc region. Stéphane arrived in the Rhône Valley in 2000, creating La Ferme du Mont in Southern Rhône where he continues to produce wines with freshness and soul using native yeasts and biodynamic methods.. Learn more about their story here.

Photos, video and information © La Ferme Du Mont and Broadbent – All Rights Reserved.

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July Beer Club: Iowa

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Mikerphone-Check-1-2-beer-canMikerphone Brewing
Check 1, 2
Double IPA
Elk Grove Village, Illinois 

Double Dry-Hopped Double IPA with Citra hops.

ABV: 8% alcohol / volume
Style: IPA – Imperial / Double
Beer Style at WineStyles: Hoppy

ABOUT MIKERPHONE BREWING:
Mikerphone Brewing is a family-owned small craft brewery located in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. Founded by a passion for home-brewing, Mike and Lisa Pallen started the concept of the brewery inspired by music out of their basement. In 2015, Mikerphone Brewing brewed the release of it’s first commercial beer. In that same year, they were awarded Best New Brewery in Illinois by Ratebeer, as well as One of the Best New Breweries in the World by Beer Advocate Magazine. Learn more about the brewery here, and follow them on Untappd.

Photos and information © Mikerphone Brewering – All Rights Reserved.

Phase-Three-Mexican-LagerPhase Three Brewing
P3 Mexican Lager
Lager
Lake Zurich, Illinois

Light and refreshing, brewed with premium malts and topped up with a dash of Noble hop spice.

ABV: 5.5% alcohol / volume
Style: Lager – Mexican
Beer Style at WineStyles: Crisp & Clean

ABOUT PHASE THREE BREWING:
Phase Three Brewing is a brewery focusing on marrying hop flavors together – big imperial stouts and heavily fruited ales. Starting as a passion project between three friends – Brittany, Shaun and Evan – who all met when working with each other at a restaurant and brewery in Schaumburg, Illinois; (Brittany and Shaun ended up getting married and having two kids). The trio strive to constantly provide beer that is hand-crafted with quality ingredients by honest people. Learn more about the three phases of the brewery here, and follow them on Untappd.

Photos and information © Phase Three Brewing – All Rights Reserved.

meet-the-motuekas-canHop Butcher For the World
Meet the Motuekas
IPA
Chicago, Illinois

Motueka-hopped India Pale Ale.

ABV: 6.5% alcohol / volume
Hops: Motueka
Style: IPA – New England / Hazy
Beer Style at WineStyles: Hoppy
Label Artwork: Dan Grzeca

ABOUT HOP BUTCHER BREWERY:
Inspired by Carl Sandburg’s poem “Chicago”, Carl refers to the great city as “Hog Butcher for the World”, and while the literal meaning has faded since the closing of the Union Stock Yards in 1971, it embodies and inspires who the Hop Butcher team is and the beers they brew in three meaningful ways. Learn more about the brewery and their inspiration here; and follow them on Untappd.

Photos and information © Hop Butcher For the World – All Rights Reserved.

Pontoon-Otter_Palmer_RadlerPontoon Brewing
Otter Palm
Shandy
Sandy Springs, Georgia

Refreshing blend of beer, black tea, and lemonade, this cocktail inspired beer is a refreshing addition to the golf course, lawn mowing, or just sitting in a comfy chair in the A/C. 

ABV: 4.5% alcohol / volume
Style: Shandy / Radler
Beer Style at WineStyles: Fruity & Spicy 

ABOUT PONTOON BREWING:
Pontoon Brewing was founded by a group of longtime pals and home brewers who were passionate about developing scrumptious beer for the pontoon lifestyle – an idea of escaping the daily stresses and relaxing on a pontoon boat – “a slow moving party platform; it can’t go far and can’t go fast so might as well drink”. Opening their doors in December 2017, they became the first microbrewery in Sandy Springs. Learn more about the brewery here, and follow them on Untappd.

Photos and information © Pontoon Brewing – All Rights Reserved.

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