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April 2007
Reliving a REALLY good wine vacation
Wedding Hill, Adelaida Cellars in Paso Robles
Cracking open the fine story entitled Paso Robles at a crossroads While its wines win praise, an adolescent region struggles to establish its identity from the San Francisco Chronicle, certainly took me back to last year at about this time, when I visited Paso with a few wine-enthusiastic friends. The visit was memorable for more reasons than one. For starters, standing atop Adelaida Cellars’ Wedding Hill, from which the photo above was taken, was a rather stunning experience in and of itself.
It’s apparent from the Chronicle’s story that Paso is experiencing some substantial growing pains, and the laid-back, mutually supportive atmosphere that we encountered a year ago may be eroding. That’s a shame. Because this is a special place, worth visiting, worth celebrating, worth preserving.
Cheers!
Mark
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A mighty weekend in store, and readers react to ‘green’ marketing
Yet another fantastic lineup of wines to tickle our tonsils this weekend, and in case you haven’t seen them, some interesting reader comments to the entry of earlier this week entitled Fetzer tries to market itself as ‘good for the planet’. And some strong support for the idea of the the Cleveland Wine School coming to Dayton.
For tastings and events in the Cincinnati area, check out Michelle’s blog at My Wine Education. If you’re incredibly fortunate enough to live in the Dayton area, click on the “continue reading” link below to access an events list that comes to Uncorked via the heroic efforts of a Dayton-based wine listserv. Thanks and cheers!
Jay’s Kitchen Door Friday, April 27, 2007 4-8 pm Taittinger Brut La Francaise 2003 Patton Valley Pinot Noir 2001 Northstar Stella Maris Merlot 2004 Uccelliera Rosso di Montalcino 2003 Coppola Cask Cabernet
Saturday, April 28, 2007 1-6 pm NV Paul Roget Brut 2001 Poderi Lugi Einaudi Borola 2001 Chateau Fortia Chateauneuf du Pape 2003 Drycreek Heritage Clone Zinfandel
Arrow - Kettering Saturday, April 28, 2007 11-5 pm 2006 o’reilly’s pinot gris, oregon 2005 o’reilly’s chardonnay, oregon 2005 owen roe red, yakima valley 2005 owen roe red, walla walla
Dorothy Lane Market (DLM)
DLM Oakwood Friday, April 27, 2007 5-8pm Chateau ST. Michelle Dry Riesling 2006 Domain Lafond Tavel 2005 Mas De Gourgonnier 2004 Ch tour de Guiet Bordeaux 2003 Chateau La Lagune Bordeaux 2003 Brown Bag
Saturday, April 28, 2007 1-6 pm Simi Rose 2006 Ramey Sonoma Coast Chardonnay 2005 Hendry Pinot Noir 2005 Gerard Raphet Chambolle-Musigny 2005 Faust Cabernet Napa Valley 2004 Chateau De Saint Cosme 2003 Bonus Bottles
Beers: Coniston XB Bluebird Bitter, Ommegang Abbey Ale
DLM Washington Square Thursday, April 26, 2007 5-8 pm Thursday April 26, 2007 2006 Chateau Ste. Michelle “Nellie’s Garden” Dry Rose 2005 Benito Ferrara Greco di Tufo 2004 Mas de Gourgonnier “les Baux de Provence” 2005 Gerard Raphet Chambolle Musigny 2003 Batasiolo Nebbiolo
Saturday, April 28, 2007 12-5 pm Fifi’s “Cab”in Fever Tasting 2004 Handley Dry Creek Chardonnay 2003 Marques de Casa Concha Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Michael Pozzan Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 Kinkead Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 Henry’s Drive Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 Justin “Isoceles” Cabernet Sauvignon Mystery Wine!
Dorothy Lane Springboro Friday, April 27, 2007 3-7pm 06 Chateau Ste Michelle Dry Riesling 04 Imagine Chardonnay 02 Dashe Petite Syrah 04 Imagine Cabernet
Saturday, April 28, 2007 12-5 pm 05 Don Olegario Albarino 99 Corullon 02 Buller Shiraz “Calliope” 00 Abadia Retuerta Palomar Buller Fine Muscat Buller Fine Tokey
Cuvee Wine Bar and Cellar, 4457 State Route 725 Bellbrook Tuesday - Thursday 11:30 - 7 pm Friday and Saturday 11:30 - 8 pm www.cuveewinebar.net Wine Tasting Menu Friday, April 27 -Thursday, May 3, 2007 Michael Pozzan Sauvignon Blanc O’Reilly’s Chardonnay Saintsbury Vin Gris of Pinot Noir YEARS White Blend Eric Ross Old Vine Carignane Badge Pinot Noir Sequum Zinfandel
Saturday Snacks: Pulled Pork Sandwich, Grilled Goat Chop with Avocado Salad
Wednesday, May 2, 2007 Australian and New Zealand Wines with Deborah Gray of A ‘n Z Wine Connection.
Sunday, May 13 11:00-6:00 Mother’s Day Brunch Menu Selections: Chef Chris Cavender will team up with Chef Francesco for a Bari-Puglia Mother’s Day Brunch Menu at Trattoria Da’Francesco, 3 East Market Street, Germantown 45327 Call Francesco’s (937-855-2111) for reservations. Menu: Chicken Rollotino, Osso Bucco with Orrechetti, Gnocchi Besciamella, Stuffed Eggplant Ricottaro, Italian Stuffed Toast with Berries and Walnuts, Frittata Francesco, Eggs Cristo, Penne Quattro Formaggi, Pasta Ragu, Puglia Fisherman’s Stew Bring your own Wine
Arrow Centerville 615 Lyons Rd Saturday, April 28, 2007 11 am - 5 pm 2005 bastgen brauneberger spatlese 2004 bighorn cellars chardonnay 2006 milton park shiraz 2005 ventisquero pinot noir Lot#21 bookwalter red 2001 valsacro rioja
Trader Joe’s, Town & Country Kettering Trader Joes in Kettering at Stroop and Far Hills Tastings Thursday 6-8 and Sunday 4-7. This week - special wines for graduates. Segura Viudas Brut Reserva sparkling wine (NV) DO Cava, Spain. Schloss Biebrich sparkling wine (NV) Germany. Excelsior Cabernet Sauvignon (2005) WO Robertson, South Africa.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar ( at The Greene ) 937-320-9548 Wine Wednesdays from 5pm to 7pm in the bar. There will be four different two ounce tastes every week and will provide different appetizers through out the night to pair with these wines. Features for Wednesday May 2, 2007 5pm to 7pm CHATEAU STE. MICHELLE Chardonnay Columbia Valley Indian Wells, 2005 ACACIA Pinot Noir Napa Valley Carneros Lone Tree Vineyard 2005 STEPHAN L’AVENTURE Optimus Paso Robles,2004 FRITZ Cabernet Sauvignon Dry Creek Valley, 2004
Little Sonoma, 6078 West Chester Road, West Chester, OH 45069. 513-942-9463. Located two blocks north of Union Centre Blvd. at the corner of Muhlhauser and West Chester Roads www.LittleSonomaWines.com Tuesday, May 1st, 7:00 pm ~ Announcing a Special Evening with The Wines of Joshua Krupp $40 per person
Friday, April 27 Dennert Distributing will provide a mini-tour of Italian wines. Villa de Borgo Pinot Grigio ‘05, Cusumano Nero D’Avola ‘04, Poliziano Rosso di Montepulciano ‘05, Tenuta Sant Antonio Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso ‘02, Brunello di Montalcino CapAnna ‘01
Saturday, April 28 will focus on “Easy to Drink Wines for the New Wine Enthusiast”. astoro Cellars Muscat Canelli, Relax Riesling, Beringer Third Century Pinot Noir and Folie a Deux Menage a Trois
Winds Cafe Yellow Springs Friday, April 27, 2007 - 7 pm Southern French Wine Tasting. An evening of unique Provencal wines paired with Southern French dishes. Call 937-767-9441 to make reservations.
Villa di Giovanni Wine Tasting! Wednesday, May 2, 2007, 1100 E. Dayton Yellow Springs Rd. 5-7 p.m.
The Gallery Wine Bar and Cafe, Third and Wayne Wednesday, 2 May, 2007 6:00 - 9 p.m. Romariz White Port Cocktail (Portugal) 2001 Valsacro Rioja (Spain) 2006 Ventisquero Reserve Pinoy Noir (Chile) 2005 Ventisquero Reserve Carmenere(Chile) 1999 Limited Edition Morande Syrah-Cabernet (Chile)
Grapes of Ruth Tuesday, May 8, 6-8pm Winemaker Charles Coniglio will sample his Napa Valley wines.
La Petite France 3177 Glendate-Milford Road Cincinnati, Ohio www.lapetitefrance.biz Call 513-733-8383
The restaurant presents a “Taste of France” featuring gourmet specialties from seven different regions of France on the last Friday of each month, they will offer a special three course dinner from the Alsace, Bordeaux, Brittany, Dijon, Normandy, Provence, and Toulouse regions of France. The April 27th Dinner will focus on Provence.
FLEURS DE FETE DONATIONS needed!!! Fleurs de Fete, Sunday, May 20th from 1-4pm at Carillon Historical Park:
Fleurs de Fete is actively seeking donations from private individuals for the live auction. Enjoy a tax-deduction and recognition in the program booklet at the event (if desired.) Contact Laura Lanier (Wellness Connection) at 223-4117 ext. 112. Fleurs de Fete will feature over 300 wines and food samples from Dayton’s finest restaurants with the proceeds benefiting the Wellness Connection of the Dayton Region.
Wine Tasting at the Dayton Philharmonic Show House by Sip’s Cafe Thursday May 10 - 6:00 - 7:30 Thursday May 17 - 6:00 - 7:30 www.dpva.org You must purchase a show house ticket - wine tasting is a $3.00 donation. Parking is at Sugar Camp on W Schantz Avenue. Free shuttles will run all evening. www.dpva.org
The Inn at Versailles Friday April 27th wine dinner with Toad Hollow innatversailles@earthlink.net
Sips Café and Bar Wine Dinner May 7, 2007, Cocktail Hour: 5-6pm Dinner: 6pm Reservations Required: [937] 434-7477 Cost: $60 per person
Thomas Hyland Chardonnay Bay Scallops and Maryland Crab Cakes w/ a Citrus Cream Sauce
Bin 407 Cabernet Sauvignon Smoked Regional Cheeses, Meats & Sweet Dried Fruits
Bin 138 Grenache/Shiraz/Mouvedre Blend Great Barrier Oysters “Rockafeller” w/ a Roasted Bell Pepper & Sun Dried Tomato Sauce
RWT Shiraz Aussie Peppered Bone-In Lamb
Tawny Port Queensland Triple Dark Chocolate Cake, Dark Chocolate Covered Cherries & White Chocolate Covered Strawberries
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Former Bellbrook HS chemistry teacher launches her own wine school — and it’s coming to Dayton
Here’s another “Dayton native makes good in the wine industry” story with a few unusual twists: A Fairborn native who once taught chemistry at Bellbrook High School and who now operates the Cleveland Wine School that just so happens to be hanging out a shingle here in the Dayton area very soon.
Her name is Marianne Frantz, and here’s an excerpt from her email from earlier this week:
I am the founder of the Cleveland Wine School here in Cleveland,Ohio. As background, I am a Certified Wine Educator with a Diploma in Wine & Spirits from the Wine & Spirits Education Trust in London as well as the Advanced award from the Court of Master Sommeliers. I am a Master of Wine candidate and am sitting for the Master Sommelier exam. I started the school 4.5 years ago and am now in the middle of opening my second location. I have a classroom and office downtown and will open a tasting center on Cleveland’s east side in May. Feel free to visit our Web site — but know that it does not represent our offerings to date. I am launching a “new and improved” website with the launch of the tasting center in May.
I am originally from the Dayton area (Fairborn to be exact)and taught high school Chemistry at Bellbrook High school for a few years before moving to New York City in the 80s to produce special events. Along the line, I ended up working with American Express on food and wine events around the country and in France. During this time, I developed a love for wine and started studying wine at the International Wine Center in NYC. They offer an internationally recognized program of study called the Wine & Spirit Education Trust(WSET). The program is based out of London and is the suggested coursework to prepare for the program offered by the Institute of Master of Wine - also in London. I completed the two year course of the WSET, moved back to OHio with my native Clevelander husband and decided to start a wine school. While it is never easy to start a business from the ground up - I am happy to say that the classes sell out each session. Additionally, I am now an Approved Program Provider for the the WSET program (exclusive provider for OHio) and offer several professional certification classes in Cleveland. We attract professionals from the tri-state area. Further, we also secured the Chicago market and have teamed up with the Park Hyatt to teach the program in Chicago. Finally, we manage the wine portion of the Fabulous Food Show, a three-day consumer show featuring Food Network celebrities such as Rachel Ray, Paula Dean and Giada DeLaurentiis. The show attracts more than 30,000 food-loving consumers - of which more than 7,500 participated in our wine classes and shows. All this said, consumers in Ohio want to learn about wine — this I know!
In the past year or so, I have had many requests to teach classes in Cincinnati, Dayton and Columbus. As such, I have created an immersion program as the American Wine School. This information will be on my new website in a few weeks. Basically, we would like to come to the area four times a year and present classes on Friday night and Saturday days. The goal is to attract people from Cincy and Columbus to come to Dayton for the weekend as well as spread the word within the Dayton area for locals to attend. I am currently researching venues and hope to have the details pulled together in the next few weeks.
Cheers. Marianne Frantz
What do you think of this concept? Think it’ll fly in Dayton? Would you or your friends sign up for the offerings?
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Enhance THIS: Yet another wine ‘enhancer’ hits the market
Remember the BevWizard we wrote about in Blue smoke, Ouija boards and wine magnets? That piece prompted the magnetic device’s inventor to vigorously defend his product, although I don’t recall anyone delivering scientific proof of the magnet’s claims, despite a generous offer of money.
Well now, step right up, folks, ‘cuz we got ourselves another one: the Catania Wine Enhancer. According to its makers, the Wine Enhancer not only smooths out wines like the BevWizard is touted to do, but also eliminates red-wine headaches. “Based on numerous user testimonials.”
How, you might ask, does a device that looks for all the world like a very pretty coaster achieve such feats? Well, first of all, it does NOT contain any magnets (Phew! What a relief!). But it does take FULL advantage of “a completely unique technology which utilizes specific harmonically balanced frequencies in conjunction with crystals and metals which add oscillation and their own unique signature.”
Can someone please translate the above sentence for this less-advanced Uncorked author and perhaps a few of his readers? I knew I should have majored in something other than journalism …
Oh, and it works on water, too. In case you, um, get headaches from drinking too much water.
About the only thing the Wine Enhancer doesn’t do is turn water into wine. Perhaps someone Else already holds the patent rights to that …
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Fetzer tries to market itself as ‘good for the planet’
Brown-Forman, the giant Louisville, KY-based wine-and-drinks conglomerate that owns Fetzer Vineyards (along with a few other brands — ever hear of Jack Daniels?), wants wine drinkers to consider Fetzer a “green” wine — no, not underripe and vegetal, but rather, environmentally-friendly.
And the company is spending a cool $1 million on a marketing campaign to make it happen, according to this story from Sunday’s Louisville Courier-Journal.
The story notes Fetzer’s struggles to maintain market share in a price category that includes heavyweights such as Gallo and Woodbridge and Yellow Tail. Wine industry officials figure that establishing a winery as an environmentally friendly brand may be the “tiebreaker” for consumers choosing from among competing brands. Fetzer apparently agrees.
Had to laugh at the comments from a Gallo spokeswoman, who, in so many words, scoffed at the Fetzer campaign, implying Gallo has been “green” for 70 years but is too dignified to use that as a marketing ploy. Harr-umph!
Are you more likely to buy a wine if it’s labeled “organic?” Would you be more likely to buy a wine if the back label touted the winery’s “green” practices and contained slogans such as the one planned for Fetzer products: “As good for the planet as for the palate”?
Do you wish they all would simply focus on making better wines instead of worrying so much about how to market them?
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Memo to France: Love your wine, but about the criminal behavior …
A bunch of French wine “activists” are at it again in the south of France, this time torching supermarkets in apparent protests against free-trade policies.
The firebombing certainly represents a change of tactics of sorts from some of the earlier protests.
I wonder how many French citizens changed their minds on the free-trade issue and embraced the protesters’ viewpoints in the wake of this “public relations” campaign?
My hunch is, um, not many.
A votre sante!
Mark Fisher
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A celebration of fantastic wines to accompany fantastic weather
Good gosh, this weekend’s wine tastings list looks like a wine hall of fame. Consider these gems: Caymus (twice), Araujo, BV (twice), Mondavi, Antinori, Joseph Phelps, Kenwood — Great Googly Moogly, we are not worthy! And all available for the click of a mouse on the “continue reading” link and a silent but heartfelt thanks to the listserv that compiles the information and sends it along to Uncorked … Enjoy the weekend and cheers!
Mark Fisher
“For the Love of Wine” Camp Emanual Fundraiser featuring food and wine and a great silent wine auction. Sunday, March 22, 2007 1 to 4 pm, Jay’s Seafood Restaurant Tickets are $55 per person, $100 per couple Call George Punter (937) 436-3424 or Nan Crawford (937) 312-1012 for more information and tickets.
Jays Kitchen Door Friday, April 20, 2007 4-8 pm 2004 Billaud Simon Petite Chablis 2001 Domaine Arlaud Morey St Denis “Les Ruchots” 1998 Banfi Poggio alle Mura 2003 Domaine des Baumard Quartes de Chaume
Saturday, April 21, 2007 1-6 pm 2005 Whitehall Lane Sauvignon Blanc 1998 BV George de Latour 1998 Caymus SS Cabernet 1998 Araujo Eisele Cabernet
Arrow - Kettering Saturday, April 21, 2007 11-5 pm 2005 domaine perraud macon-villages, vieilles vignes (white burgundy) 2003 estancia meritage 2004 gallo sonoma reserve cabernet sauvignon 2005 chateau sainte-marie (red bordeaux) 2005 kuleto estate zinfandel, napa valley 2002 marc tempe gewurztraminer, rodelsberg vineyard, unfined/unfiltered
Dorothy Lane Market (DLM)
DLM Oakwood Friday, April 20, 2007 5-8pm Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2006 Chateau Belair-Moustel Bordeaux Blanc 2005 Domaine Besson Givry 1er Cru 2005 Raymond Reserve Merlot 2002 Batasiolo Barolo 2001 Brown Bag
Saturday, April 21, 2007 1-6 pm Domaine La Cahapelle Coteaux du Loie 2005 Boudin Chablis 2004 Brewer-Clifton Ashley’s Pinot Noir 2005 Chateau Davril Bordeaux 2005 Robert Hall Rhone de Robles 2005 Imagine Cabernet 2004 Bonus Bottles
Beers: Old Slug Porter, Dogfish Head Black & Blue
DLM Washington Square Thursday, April 19, 2007 5-8 pm No tasting due to the Pastry Show.
Saturday, April 21, 2007 12-5 pm “Fifi’s Got Pinots in Her Pocket” 2004 Ceja Chardonnay 2004 Anne Gros Bourgogne (Burgundy) 2002 Tandem Pinot Noir (Sonoma Mountain) 2005 Drew “Ashley’s Vineyard” Pinot Noir (Santa Rita Hills) 2004 Domaine Serene “Evenstad” Pinot Noir (Williamette Valley) 2003 Walter Hansel “South Slope Vineyard” Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley) Mystery Wine!
Dorothy Lane Springboro Friday, April 20, 2007 3-7pm 05 Domaine Menard Colombard Sauvignon 05 Bessen Le Haut Colombier 05 Besson Le Petit Pretan 03 Chateau Castegens Bordeaux
Saturday, April 21, 2007 12-5 pm 06 Simi Roseto Rose 01 Jayson Chardonnay 04 Frog Leap Merlot 02 BV Tapestry
Cuvee Wine Bar and Cellar, 4457 State Route 725 Bellbrook Tuesday - Thursday 11:30 - 7 pm Friday and Saturday 11:30 - 8 pm www.cuveewinebar.net Wine Tasting Menu Friday, April 20-Thursday, April 26, 2007 Argiolas Costamolino Vermentino Saintsbury 2006 Vincent Vin Gris Rose of Pinot Noir Eric Louis 2005 Sancerre Sineann 2006 Celilio Vineyard Gewurztraminer Batasiolo 2003 Nebbiolo Michael Pozzan 2004 Reserve Merlot Domaine de Gineste 2000 Gaillac Grand Cuvee
Wednesday, May 2, 2007 Australian and New Zealand Wines with Deborah Gray of A ‘n Z Wine Connection.
Arrow Centerville 615 Lyons Rd Saturday, April 21, 2007 11 am - 5 pm 2004 Joseph Phelps Pastiche White… 2005 Kenwood Pinot Noir Rosé… 2001 Chivite Crianza… 2003 Robert Mondavi Napa Valley Merlot… 2002 Villa Antinori Toscano Red… 2001 Robert Mondavi Napa Valley Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Trader Joes, Town & Country Kettering Trader Joes in Kettering at Stroop and Far Hills Tastings Thursday 6-8 and Sunday 4-7. Contadina Pinot Grigio (2005) IGT Delle Venezie, Italy. Trader Joe’s French Classic Syrah (2005) VdP Pays d’Oc, France. Cosentino Cigar Zin (2004) California.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar ( at The Greene ) 937-320-9548 Wine Wednesdays from 5pm to 7pm in the bar. There will be four different two ounce tastes every week and will provide different appetizers through out the night to pair with these wines. Features for Wednesday April 25, 2007 5pm to 7pm Caymus Conundrum California, 2005 Cakebread Chardonnay Napa Valley, 2005 Nickle &Nickle Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Oakville Rock Cairn, 2003 Penfolds Shiraz South Australia St.Henri, 2002
Friday, April 27, 2007 PGA themed wine dinner. $85. Call for reservations!
Little Sonoma, 6078 West Chester Road, West Chester, OH 45069. 513-942-9463. Located two blocks north of Union Centre Blvd. at the corner of Muhlhauser and West Chester Roads www.LittleSonomaWines.com Friday, April 20th, 6-7:30 pm ~ Spanish Wines and “Paella at Your Place” Saturday, April 21st, 3-6 pm ~ Stellar Second Labels Glass Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon (second label of Markham Vineyards) Carson Peak Cabernet Sauvignon (second label of Boeger Winery) Red Knot Shiraz (second label of Black Shook) A by Acacia Chardonnay (second label of Acacia)
Tuesday, May 1st, 7:00 pm ~ Announcing a Special Evening with The Wines of Joshua Krupp $40 per person
Winds Cafe Yellow Springs Friday, April 27, 2007 - 7 pm Southern French Wine Tasting. An evening of unique Provencal wines paired with Southern French dishes. Call 937-767-9441 to make reservations.
Villa di Giovanni Wine Tasting! Wednesday, April 25, 2007, 1100 E. Dayton Yellow Springs Rd. 5-7 p.m.
The Gallery Wine Bar, Third and Wayne 25 April 6:00p.m. Gallery Wine Bar and Café Rumor is that the tasting will be Amarones!
Grapes of Ruth Wednesday, April 25, 6- 8pm Australian Wine Class Allen Todd from Allied wines will be teaching the class on Australian wines.
La Petite France 3177 Glendate-Milford Road Cincinnati, Ohio www.lapetitefrance.biz Call 513-733-8383
The restaurant presents a “Taste of France” featuring gourmet specialties from seven different regions of France on the last Friday of each month, they will offer a special three course dinner from the Alsace, Bordeaux, Brittany, Dijon, Normandy, Provence, and Toulouse regions of France. The April 27th Dinner will focus on Provence.
On Friday evening, April 20th at 6:30 pm, La Petite France will host a wine dinner tasting entitled “California and French Side by Side Tasting”. The price is $60 per person. Aperitifs will be served at 6:30 pm.
The Fine Food Show (part of The Cincinnati Flower Show) April 21, 10 AM to 7 PM and April 22, 9 AM to 7 PM. at Coney Island in Cincinnati. Harmony Hill, Henke Wines, Kinkead Ridge and Valley Vineyards will pour samples and have glasses and bottles available for carryout. The wineries will pour samples all day Saturday and on Sunday from 1pm-7pm
FLEURS DE FETE DONATIONS needed!!! Fleurs de Fete, Sunday, May 20th from 1-4pm at Carillon Historical Park:
Fleurs de Fete is actively seeking donations from private individuals for the live auction. Enjoy a tax-deduction and recognition in the program booklet at the event (if desired.) Contact Laura Lanier (Wellness Connection) at 223-4117 ext. 112. Fleurs de Fete will feature over 300 wines and food samples from Dayton’s finest restaurants with the proceeds benefiting the Wellness Connection of the Dayton Region.
Wine Tasting at the Dayton Philharmonic Show House by Sip’s Cafe Thursday May 10 - 6:00 - 7:30 Thursday May 17 - 6:00 - 7:30 www.dpva.org You must purchase a show house ticket - wine tasting is a $3.00 donation. Parking is at Sugar Camp on W Schantz Avenue. Free shuttles will run all evening. www.dpva.org
The Inn at Versailles Friday April 27th wine dinner with Toad Hollow E-mail innatversailles@earthlink.net for reservations or call (937)526-3020.
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Wine drinkers think more clearly than teetotalers, study suggests
Consider this: When we wine drinkers think about where we’re going to go this weekend to taste wine, we might just be thinking more clearly than our non-drinking peers.
A Columbia University study has found that those of us who consume alcohol have greater cognitive ability — as a group, we appear to suffer less “cognitive decline” as we grow older — than those who never drank, according to this Wine Spectator story on the study, the results of which were published first in the journal Neuroepidemiology.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. C’mon, it’s the Wine Spectator, which has an obvious vested interest in how alcohol-related health studies are reported, right?
Well, just to be sure I wasn’t misleading the readers of Uncorked in linking to the Spectator’s story, I first emailed the WS article to the lead researcher in the study — Dr. Clinton Wright, assistant professor of neurology at Columbia University’s Division of Stroke and Critical Care — and asked him whether it was an accurate portrayal of his research.
Here’s what Dr. Wright had to say:
I think the results are well presented, emphasizing that no one population-based study provides proof. Alcohol abuse is a major public health issue and heavy intake is associated with all sorts of physical ailments, ranging from social to psychiatric to liver problems. Therefore, I was careful to point out that the benefit seen in the highest drinking category should be discounted since the sample size is small.
The other point is that we presume people were not drinking at the time of the telephone cognitive test and our results do not imply that alcohol improves cognitive function directly (e.g. If you do a shot of tequila you think better). Rather, we hypothesize that alcohol may work against other disease processes over time. Other studies would be needed to examine such relationships.
Clinton Wright, M.D., M.S., The Neurological Institute, College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University
A very balanced, measured response from a researcher who obviously doesn’t want his research to be used to justify or rationalize destructive behavior. And kudos to the Spectator for a straight-up report.
For those who’d like to read the full report for themselves, well, click here for the full article, which appears in the journal Neuroepidemiology.
And be assured that your one small glass of wine, well … while it may cloud your judgment, it apparently will not cloud your thinking.
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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A tale of two wine bars
This here’s a quick tale of two wine bars — at two very different stages of development.
First, the well-established Cuvee in Bellbrook, which last night hosted Napa winemaker Michael Pozzan of Michael Pozzan Winery in his first visit to the Dayton area. The tasting was well-attended, and Michael had some very kind things to say about Ohio and its importance as a market for his winery, which has focused initial efforts in the Cleveland-Akron area and is now branching out into the Dayton-Cincinnati market.
Michael’s 2005 Sauvignon Blanc ($11.99) — almost New Zealand-like in its fresh, tart grapefruit flavors — and his 2005 Reserve Pinot Noir ($19.99) — with a solid core of black-cherry pinot flavor — were big hits.
And at what other wine bar in the world can wine-tasters munch on “snacks” such as Bonito Sashimi on Ginger Seaweed Salad with Wasabi, Spicy Sauce and Masago, or Medallion of Beef with Crab & Artichoke served with Bearnaise and Madeira Sauces with French Bread, prepared by chef Chris Cavender? Um, that would be NOWHERE else in the world.
But speaking of wine bars, here are some photos of the Cork-N-Vine wine shop that opens this weekend in Troy. They were contributed by Shawn Grow, the new wine shop’s co-owner. Don’t look for Napa winemakers or medallions of beef on their first day Friday — but hey, they’re just getting started. Who knows?
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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New wine shop will open this weekend in Troy
Check it out: A new wine shop and wine bar will open Friday in Troy.
Co-owner Shawn Grow said he and his partner Angela Crespo visited 50 or so wine shops in the tri-state and did some demographic studies before deciding on the location and design of the shop, which is located behind Applebee’s and just to the east of Staples along West Main Street in Troy, just west of the I-75/State Route 41 intersection. Both Shawn and Angela have worked in other careers but decided that their passion for wine made this move the right thing to do. The shop will have wine tastings every day, and will change the tasting-bar menu every five to seven days, Grow said.
Ask Shawn about the Brazilian cherry bar top — he did the work himself.
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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How much influence does $860,000 buy? Ohio’s wine and beer wholesalers find out
Common Cause has released a report entitled Under the Influence, which claims that the Wholesale Beer and Wine Association of Ohio has used the state’s higher campaign contribution limits to gain even more influence in the state’s capitol.
“Ohio’s Beer and Wine Association has expertly used the state’s new lofty campaign contribution limits to give generously to legislators who support their interests and financial bottom line, regardless of the public interest,” said Bill Woods, chairman of Common Cause Ohio, said in a press release announcing the release of the report.
Here’s more from the release:
The $861,870 in campaign contributions to state candidates and party committees made by the beer and wine wholesalers between 2003 and 2006 helped the industry fight off two significant tax increase proposals on beer and wine, arguing that raising costs was not in the best interest of consumers. But when proposed legislation threatened their state-mandated markup that would potentially lower the price of wine in Ohio, the wholesalers this time suggested that wine costs should be kept higher to limit alcohol abuse.
And from the report itself, which contains a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at some of the specific legislation (and legislators) involved:
(The beer and wine wholesalers association) represents the interests of more than 60 local beer and wine distributors from all over the state. Alcoholic beverage retailers such as grocery stores, bars, restaurants, and sporting events rely on wholesalers to store and deliver the goods produced by breweries and wineries. Because alcohol is one of the most regulated industries, wholesalers have a huge financial stake in related legislation that comes out of the Ohio state capitol. To protect their interests, they have become one of the most powerful political forces in Columbus. … It was their attempts to kill the alcohol tax increase that got the wholesalers’ lobby some attention, not only for their generosity towards public officials, but their tactics as well. The wholesalers’ attempts to influence the legislature to stop the tax increase on beer and wine were implicated in a broad campaign finance scandal that led to state and national investigations of key legislative leaders and political fundraisers.
Similar contributions have aroused the attention of a federal grand jury elsewhere, although there’s no indication the Ohio contributions are under that kind of scrutiny. In fact, it’s the point that these contributions, in these amounts, ARE legal that Common Cause takes issue with.
My fellow blogger Tom Wark has written extensively about wine wholesalers and their influence on legislation that could impact their profits on his blog, Fermentation.
The political landscape in Ohio has been complex. Last year brought quite a bit of controversy as wine wholesalers squared off in some cases against one another over proposed legislation that would have made several important changes to Ohio’s wine laws. The opposing groups formed coalitions that included the Coalition for Fair Wine Laws and the Ohioans for Choice and Competition.
What to make of this?
I’ve asked the Wholesale Beer and Wine Association of Ohio for a response to the Common Cause report, and will let you know what the association has to say.
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Is that wine really ‘corked?’ Why we need a pocket TCA detector
So I’m preparing a nice meal last weekend and nose around my cellar for the right wine to have with my New York strip, deciding on a ‘97 Italian from Piedmont. I open it about an hour before dinner and pour a generous glass from the bottle to let the wine air out a bit. It doesn’t have much of a nose right away, but I figure the airing will help with that.
When I sit down at the table to eat, my first whiff of the wine in my glass seems to contain a hint — just a suggestion — of that TCA aroma that suggests a wine is “corked.” In subsequent swirls, sniffs and sips, the corkiness fades, but everything about the wine seems muted —both aromas and flavors. I soon give in and open a second bottle — an ‘04 Cotes du Rhone — which saves the day.
Now, this topic has been a launching pad for a few rants and even occasional mirth over the years. But I still want to know: was this Italian wine “corked” or not?
Some wise entrepreneurs out there should be hard at work on an invention that could make them millions: a TCA detector. A device that would reveal the presence of TCA in the parts per trillion. And it would be cheap. And it would fit into a shirt pocket.
Is that asking for too much? I know, I know. The answer is yes.
But if we can put a man on the moon …
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Wine 101 starts at home
New York Times wine writer Eric Asimov, who authors the excellent wine blog The Pour, wrote an intriguing piece this week entitled To Study Wine, Buy and Drink. It invites readers to learn about wine not by taking wine classes or poring over books and magazines, but by the old-fashioned way: drinking it.
It’s a fine read. Take a look at Asimov’s specific suggestions. What do you think of his approach?
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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2006 pinks: the first sign of spring, and a few worthy events to boot
Forget the robins. We know the first harbingers of spring are the fine rose wines from the previous year’s vintage. So take note of the newly arrived 2006s on the tasting bar at several local tastings, and celebrate the season — even if Mother Nature isn’t cooperating.
Also, for a quick guide to sushi for which I’ve been pounding my fingers into bloody nubs for days on end, click on this Sushi 101 link for the story, which ran in this morning’s Dayton Daily News.
Other recommendations: If you haven’t considered attending the Dorothy Lane Market pastry show, perhaps this year you should: the DLM folks are offering a selection of French wines and bistro-style sandwiches this year in addition to the sweet stuff. The annual “Springtime in Paris” Pastry Show will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday (April 19) at the Springboro DLM, three miles south of the Dayton Mall on Ohio 741. DLM chocolatier and pastry chef Ghyslain Maurais will lead cooking demonstrations. Tickets are $30 in advance, available at DLM service booths or online at www.dorothylane.com, and are $35 at the door.
And check out “For the Love of Wine,” a benefit for Camp Emanuel, to be held from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 22, at Jay’s Restaurant, 225 E. Sixth St. The event benefits a southwest Ohio summer camp for hearing-impaired and language-impared youth and for hearing youth. Here’s what event organizer George Punter has to say about the event:
For the Love of Wine Event at Jay’s please contact me at 436-3424 or Nan Crawford at 312-1012 for tickets and further imformation. Ticket prices are $55 for a single and $100 for couples. There will be good food and wines and one of the best silent auctions in Dayton. Space is limited to 120 people. This is our 32nd year.
As for tastings and events in the Cincinnati area, check out Michelle’s blog at My Wine Education. But for the Greater (as in vastly superior) Dayton area, click on the “continue reading” link below to access an events list that comes to Uncorked via the heroic efforts of a Dayton-based wine listserv, which compiles all of the data. Thanks and cheers!
Jays Kitchen Door Friday, April 13, 2007 4-8 pm 2005 Frogs Leap Sauvignon Blanc 2004 Saint Cosme Cote du Rhone 2004 Penner Ash Pinot Noir 2003 Duckhorn Cabernet 2001 Le Macioche Brunello
Saturday, April 14, 2007 1-6 pm Spanish Luncheon Wines
Saturday, April 14, 2007 Spanish Luncheon 12:30 PM $49 Call 222-2892 for Reservations! Roasted Shrimp with Romesco Sauce Serrano Ham with Quince and Manchego Cheese Spanish Lamb Stew with White Beans and Chorizo Dessert will be the Chef’s Choice! Wines accompanying the food are all Spanish Reds!
Arrow - Kettering Saturday, April 14, 2007 11-5 pm 2006 mas neuf rose 2005 casa lapostolle merlot 2005 paringa cabernet sauvignon 2006 cline viognier 2005 cline cashmere the colonial estate “explorateur”
Doug Simon Jazz Quartet Pacchia, Saturday, 04-14-07, 8pm - midnight
Dorothy Lane Market (DLM)
DLM Oakwood Friday, April 13, 2007 5-8pm Domaine de la Cadatte 2005 Simi Sauvignon Blanc 2005 Gerard Raphet Bourgogne 2005 Pine Ridge Crimson Creek Merlot 2003 Reynella Shiraz 2003 Brown Bag
Saturday, April 14, 2007 1-6 pm Chateau Roquefort Rose 2006 Rene Geoffroy NV Brut Rose Domaine Besson Givry Blanc 2005 Sehesia Langhe Rosso Boaquet 2004 Marquis Phillips S 2 2005 Dominus 2001 Bonus Bottles
Beers: Singha Lager, Weyerbacher Blasphemy
DLM Washington Square Thursday, April 12, 2007 5-8 pm 2005 Joel Gott Chardonnay 2005 Domaine Besson Givry Le Haut Colombier Bourgogne Blanc 2005 Gerard Raphet Bourgogne Rouge 2005 Drew Gatekepers Pinot Noir 2002 Batasiolo Barbera d’Alba 2005 Cosentino “the Med” Mystery Wine!
Saturday, April 14, 2007 12-5 pm Fifi’s Feeling French Tasting 2005 Guindon Muscadet 2006 Chateau de Roquefort Rose 2005 Jean Garaudet Monthelie Bourgogne Rouge 2005 Les Amis de la Bouissiere 2003 Croix de Beaucaillou Vin de Mystere!
Dorothy Lane Springboro Friday, April 13, 2007 3-7pm 05 Frank Family Chardonnay 03 Frank Family Cabernet 04 Jocelyn Lonen Cabernet 03 Jocelyn Lonen Reserve Cabernet
Saturday, April 14, 2007 12-5 pm 05 Brewer-Clifton Chardonnay 05 Brewer-Clifton Pinot Nior 04 Kongsgaard Syrah 02 Duckhorn Cabernet
DLM Springtime in Paris Pastry Show Thursday, April 19 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the DLM Community Room in Springboro. Tickets available in stores and online at www.dorothylane.com. INcludes Several French wines and bistro sandwiches in addition to pastries and chocolates.
Cuvee Wine Bar and Cellar, 4457 State Route 725 Bellbrook Tuesday - Thursday 11:30 - 7 pm Friday and Saturday 11:30 - 8 pm www.cuveewinebar.net Wine Tasting Menu Friday, April 13 -Thursday, April 19, 2007 Sineann 2006 Celilio Vineyard Gewurztraminer King Estate 2005 Pinot Gris Elizabeth Spencer 2005 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay Tobin James 2005 Chateau Le Cacheflo Buzzard Tree 2004 Meritage by Norman Vineyards Big Tattoo 2004 Syrah J. Bookwalter #21 Blend
Saturday Snacks: Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Salad
Arrow Centerville 615 Lyons Rd Saturday, April 14, 2007 11 am - 5 pm 2005 Fern Leaf Sauvignon Blanc… 2005 Arancio Nero D’Avola… 2005 Coppola Malbec… 2002 Chateau La Baronne… 2003 Lassegue Saint Emilion Grand Cru
Trader Joe’s, Town & Country Kettering Trader Joe’s in Kettering at Stroop and Far Hills Tastings Thursday 6-8 and Sunday 4-7. Black Mountain Gravel Bar Chardonnay (2005) California. Black Mountain Painted Ridge Pinot Noir (2006) California. Black Mountain Fat Cat Cabernet Sauvignon (2005) California.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar ( at The Greene ) 937-320-9548 Wine Wednesdays from 5pm to 7pm in the bar. There will be four different two ounce tastes every week and will provide different appetizers through out the night to pair with these wines. Features for Wednesday April 18, 2007 5pm to 7pm HARTFORD - Chardonnay Sonoma County, 2004 KINGS RIDGE - Pinot Noir Oregon, 2004 MEEKER - Merlot Sonoma County Winemaker’s Handprint Collection, 2003 CHATEAU CANTENAC St - Emilion Climat France, 2002
Little Sonoma, 6078 West Chester Road, West Chester, OH 45069. 513-942-9463. Located two blocks north of Union Centre Blvd. at the corner of Muhlhauser and West Chester Roads www.LittleSonomaWines.com Friday, April 13th, 7 pm - Lion Group presents 90 Point+ Wines Saturday, April 14th, 3-6 pm - Beautiful Blended Wines
Winds Cafe Yellow Springs Friday, April 27, 2007 - 7 pm Southern French Wine Tasting. An evening of unique Provencal wines paired with Southern French dishes. Call 937-767-9441 to make reservations.
Villa di Giovanni Wine Tasting! Wednesday, April 18, 2007, 1100 E. Dayton Yellow Springs Rd. 5-7 p.m.
The Gallery Wine Bar, Third and Wayne 18 April 6:00p.m. Gallery Wine Bar and Café Around the world with Syrah/Shiraz 2004 Bighorn Ranch “Camelback ” Chardonnay 2003 Bighorn Ranch Sugarloaf Syrah(Ca) 2005 Barnard Griffin Syrah (Wash) 2005 Shotfire Shiraz (Aus) 2003 Crozes-Hermirage “Cuvee Gaby” (Syrah- Fr)
The Emporium in Yellow Springs Friday 13 April 6:30 P.M. Bookwalther #21 Shotfire Shiraz Barnard Griffin Fume Blanc Erbacher Reisling Chianti Ill Poggio Chateau Norbert Tres Ojos Rosada
Grapes of Ruth Wines available for tasting Friday, April 13 Graziano Chenin Blanc Casa Lapostolle Chardonnay Handley Pinot Noir Havens Merlot Mcnabb Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon Girard Old Vine Zinfandel Kilikanoon Shiraz
La Petite France 3177 Glendate-Milford Road Cincinnati, Ohio www.lapetitefrance.biz Call 513-733-8383
The restaurant presents a “Taste of France” featuring gourmet specialties from seven different regions of France on the last Friday of each month, they will offer a special three course dinner from the Alsace, Bordeaux, Brittany, Dijon, Normandy, Provence, and Toulouse regions of France. The April 27th Dinner will focus on Provence.
On Friday evening, April 13th at 6:30 pm, La Petite France will host a wine dinner tasting entitled “California and French Side by Side Tasting”. The price is $60 per person. Aperitifs will be served at 6:30 pm.
The Fine Food Show (part of The Cincinnati Flower Show) April 21, 10 AM to 7 PM and April 22, 9 AM to 7 PM. at Coney Island in Cincinnati. Harmony Hill, Henke Wines, Kinkead Ridge and Valley Vineyards will pour samples and have glasses and bottles available for carryout. The wineries will pour samples all day Saturday and on Sunday from 1pm-7pm
FLEURS DE FETE DONATIONS needed!!! Fleurs de Fete, Sunday, May 20th from 1-4pm at Carillon Historical Park:
Fleurs de Fete is actively seeking donations from private individuals for the live auction. Enjoy a tax-deduction and recognition in the program booklet at the event (if desired.) Contact Laura Lanier (Wellness Connection) at 223-4117 ext. 112. Fleurs de Fete will feature over 300 wines and food samples from Dayton’s finest restaurants with the proceeds benefiting the Wellness Connection of the Dayton Region.
Wine Tasting at the Dayton Philharmonic Show House by Sip’s Cafe Thursday May 10 - 6:00 - 7:30 Thursday May 17 - 6:00 - 7:30 www.dpva.org You must purchase a show house ticket - wine tasting is a $3.00 donation. Parking is at Sugar Camp on W Schantz Avenue. Free shuttles will run all evening. www.dpva.org The Inn at Versailles Friday April 27th wine dinner with Toad Hollow innatversailles@earthlink.net
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A reader issues a call to arms against Parker, Wine Spectator
This comment tiptoed into Uncorked last night attached to last week’s entry entitled When Spectator and Parker ratings wildly disagree: Whom to trust?, and as I’m occasionally wont to do, I’m pulling it back from the edge of the blog abyss and thrusting it into the spotlight for its 15 minutes of fame. It comes from “Steve in a Bottle,” and it issues, shall we say, a challenge:
It isn’t about Wine Spectator vs. Parker, for despite some variances here and there, they both actually suffer from the same problem- they taste too many wines and have muted palates from it. The bottom line is that because of this, they rate high alcohol, high sugar, and over-ripe wines over 90 BECAUSE THEY STAND OUT IN THE CROWD. One or the other or both pan wines with complexity, balance, and finesse because they don’t “stand out” in a tasting of 100 wines. The W.S. and Parker both need to be reminded that they rate wine, not cocktails. Look at the notes from Mark’s blind tasting: “None of the wines showed poorly…” Yet, four of the ten scores were under the coveted “90” rating, making the rating useless to the wineries for marketing their wine ;-( These two major publications and their 100-point ratings have only been a detriment to the wine industry for all the reasons listed by the other bloggers and through setting an almost impossible benchmark for wineries who want to make a balanced and elegant wine. [That’s the public’s fault for ignoring scores under 90, remember, an 88 is a B+ anyhow!] Who loses? The consumer who is obsessed with points loses. How to win? Try a lot of wines, get to know your regions, producers, and labeling laws, take notes, and discuss your wonderful hobby with friends!!! Wow, ya’all got me on a rampage!!! Please write the W.S. and Parker every time you get a high-scored table wine that tastes like Port, and let them know how it was offensive to your meal and tasted “hot.” Let them know you want fewer wines tasted by more people. More importantly, give more credit to “other” publications, blogs, and of course your friends and retailers of wine.
Hmmm. A call to a popular uprising against overripe, high-alcohol wines, complete with a letter-writing campaign against the two most powerful, influential wine-reviewing entities in the country.
What do you think? Would you fall in behind Steve when he bashes down the clubhouse door?
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Ohio wine producers watch, wait and worry about frost damage to their vineyards
Those who own vineyards in Ohio and throughout the Midwest and eastern seaboard have been chewing through their fingernails this week trying to assess the impact that the sudden, unseasonable cold snap had on their vines — and on their 2007 vintage.
In some cases, it ain’t pretty.
Sub-freezing temperatures in the spring can wreak havoc on grapevines, starting with the damage to the buds that should, in normal years, become grapes. In short, the frost can kill the buds and wipe out an entire vintage, or at the very least, can damage a large portion of the buds, leading to a greatly reduced crop (and fewer bottles of wine). The cold also can damage the vines themselves.
So these are anxious days for wine-grape growers, who may not know the full extent of the damage to their vineyards for several more weeks, but are seeing signs of damage.
Nancy Bentley, co-owner of Kinkead Ridge along the Ohio River east of Cincinnati, said vineyards are showing some signs of damage. The buds on Kinkead Ridge’s vines had broken, making them more susceptible to damage. Secondary buds may produce grapes, but the crop load can be reduced by 50 percent or more, depending on grape variety, Bentley said.
But wait — there’s more.
“The biggest danger is if the trunks freeze,” Bentley said. “You would get vascular damage, which would prevent any living buds from getting what they need. The trunk can split, and then you’d get crown gall, which is like cancer for grapevines. And if there are no buds surviving, you couldn’t train new trunks. You’d be in a replant situation, and waiting three years for the vine’s first crop. Pretty scary, huh?”
The Schuchter family, which own and operate Valley Vineyards near Morrow in Warren County, southeast of Dayton, are among those still trying to assess their losses, but Dodie Schuchter noted, “We went from record highs to record lows … . Last year was the largest crop ever, but this year will not be.”
The situation in northern Ohio, especially in the high-production areas east of Cleveland, might not be so dire, since the buds there were not quite as far along and thus were not as prone to frost damage, said Donniella Winchell, executive director of the Ohio Wine Producers Association.
“Had the warm spell late last month lasted another few days, the damage across the board might have been significantly worse,” Winchell said.
In general, growers of Concord grapes, which are among the earliest bud-break, were more susceptible to damage than growers of vinifera, whose buds were more tightly closed, said Imed Dami, Ohio’s state viticulturist who works for Ohio State University.
Arnie Esterer, owner of Markko Vineyard in Conneaut, said being near Lake Erie helped his winery and his neighbors in the northeast corner of the state.
“Things look okay as of now. Being downwind from the large bodies of water moderates the cold Arctic air and drops lots of snow as it warms things,” Esterer said.
In central Ohio, Renee and Robert Guilliams, owners of Raven’s Glenn Winery in Coshocton County, said his vineyard — devoted to mostly Vidal Blanc — “was not at the stage of development that should result in significant damage.”
Here’s what Keith Pritchard of Slate Run Vineyard in Canal Winchester had to say in an email:
Foch and some early varieties were out a leaf or two here at Slate Run Vyd. Most other varieties had bud swell of various degrees. The Foch will have a much reduced crop. Others will probably have some losses as the buds were probably susceptible to some level of damage even tho they haven’t popped. I had a low of 19.7º F at 4 am on 4/7. The worst possible scenario is if the sap being pushed up the trunks of the vines froze then the trunks may split and die, thus totally wiping out the crop this year in some varieties.
The owners of Raven’s Glenn may have put it best: “Remember, viticulture is agriculture so we hope for the best and deal with reality.”
For the past five days, it’s been a cold reality.
Cheers …
Mark Fisher
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Ohio wineries score more gold in international wine competition
The results are in for the 2007 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition, and Ohio wineries once again showed off their growing prowess.
Our friends down in Morrow in Warren County, Valley Vineyards, brought home a pair of gold medals for their Valley Vineyards Winery 2005 Ohio River Valley Estate Vidal Blanc and for their Valley Vineyards Winery Sweet Golden Honey Mead. Kinkead Ridge earned gold for its 2004 Ohio River Valley Estate Cabernet Sauvignon. And Breitenbach Wine Cellars won a gold medal for its non-vintage Blackberry wine.
More than 2,000 wines from around the world were entered into the competition, and only 6 percent were awarded medals, according to Kinkead Ridge’s Nancy Bentley. The 40 judges for the event came from Germany, New Zealand, Argentina, Canada, France, England and the U.S.
Don’t forget, a dozen or so Ohio wineries will be pouring their wines at the National City Second Street Market in downtown Dayton on June 1-2. You’ll be able to find out, at least to some degree, what all the growing fuss about Ohio wines is all about. Here’s info from the market’s web site:
Friday & Saturday, June 1st & 2nd, 5th Annual National City Ohio Wine Fest - 12 award-winning Ohio wineries, live local music, artist demonstrations, shopping, and childrens activities. Preview Night Friday, 5pm - 10pm, admission/sample tickets available in advance and at the gate. Saturday, 11am - 8pm, free admission, wine by the taste, glass or bottle. New this year, Gem City PT Cruisers Cruise-In starting at 11am. Check back for more details, posted as they become available.
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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A good Friday, indeed. Not a bad weekend, either
Some VERY tasty stuff on the tasting bar this week, including some First-Growth Bordeaux. Now that’s a good Friday.
And be sure to check out the restaurant review in today’s Dayton Daily News Go! section on Trattoria Da’ Francesco, a very authentic little Italian restaurant in Germantown, which is worth the drive for both the food and the story behind the couple who run it. Beware, the restaurant does not have a license to sell any alcohol.
And for tastings and events in the Cincinnati area, check out Michelle’s blog at My Wine Education.
And for OUR area, just click on the “continue reading” link. Thanks and cheers!
Jays Kitchen Door Friday, April 6, 2007 4-8 pm 2005 Ponzi Pinot Gris 2005 Cinnabar Chardonnay 2004 Rex Hill Pinot Noir 1999 Angelique Mombesco 1999 Opus One 2002 Chateau LaFite Rothschild
Saturday, April 7, 2007 1-6 pm NV Pierre Peters 2002 Robert Stemmler Pinot Noir 1996 Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet 1994 Chateau Mouton Rothschild
Saturday, April 14, 2007 Spanish Luncheon 12:30 PM $49 Call 222-2892 for Reservations! Roasted Shrimp with Romesco Sauce Serrano Ham with Quince and Manchego Cheese Spanish Lamb Stew with White Beans and Chorizo Dessert will be the Chef’s Choice!
Wines accompanying the food are all Spanish Reds!
Arrow - Kettering Saturday, April 7, 2007 11-5 pm 2005 mezza corona chardonnay 2006 allison rose 2005 sketchbook pinot noir, mendicino 2005 boomerang shiraz, longhop 2003 louis martini cabernet sauvignon, napa valley 2004 titus zinfandel
Dorothy Lane Market (DLM)
DLM Oakwood Friday, April 6, 2007 5-8pm Allison Rose 2006 Frank Family Chardonnay 2005 Van Duzzer Pinot Noir 2005 Chateau Mont-Redon Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2002 Rank Family Cabernet 2002 Brown Bag
Saturday, April 7, 2007 1-6 pm Plantagenet Reisling 2005 Elisabeth Spenser Chardonnay 2005 Au Bon Climat “Isabelle Morgan” Pinot Noir 2004 Gicamo Grimaldi Valmaggiore Nebbiolo 2004 Elizabeth Spenser Cabernet 2004 Grand Jacquet Vaueluse 2003 Opus 2003 Bonus Bottles
Beers: Samuel Adams White Ale, Bell’s Oberon, Harpoon Summer, Redhook Copper
DLM Washington Square Thursday, April 5, 2007 5-8 pm 2005 A to Z Rose 2005 M. Chapoutier Belleruche Blanc 2004 Giacomo Grimaldi Nebbiolo d’Alba 2004 Titus Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 Chateau la Lagune Haut-Medoc Mystery Wine!
Saturday, April 7, 2007 12-5 pm Fifi’s “Zintastic Easter” Tasting 2005 Bridlewood Reserve Viognier 2003 Napa Cellars Zinfandel (Napa) 2004 Ridge Lytton Springs Zinfandel (Dry Creek) 2004 Earthquake Zinfandel (Lodi) 2004 Renwood “Jack Rabbit Flat” Zinfandel (Amador) 2004 J C Cellars “Arrowhead Mountain Vineyard” Zinfandel (Sonoma)
Dorothy Lane Springboro Friday, April 6, 2007 3-7pm 05 Elizabeth Spencer Chardonnay 03 Elizabeth Spencer Pinot Nior 03 Elizabeth Spencer Syrah 02 Elizabeth Spencer Cabernet
Saturday, April 7, 2007 12-5 pm 05 Hexamer Riesling 05 Willi Schaefer Riesling 03 Esterlina Pinot Noir 01 Twomey Merlot
Cuvee Wine Bar and Cellar, 4457 State Route 725 Bellbrook Tuesday - Thursday 11:30 - 7 pm Friday and Saturday 11:30 - 8 pm www.cuveewinebar.net Wine Tasting Menu Friday, April 6 -Thursday, April 12, 2007 Zilliken Butterfly 2005 Riesling Inama 2005 Soave Classico David Girard Rosé Paul Lehrner 2005 Claus Cuvee Zweigelt Ortman Willamette Valley 2004 Catena 2004 Malbec J. Bookwalter #21 Blend La Playa Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc
Saturday Snacks: Italian Sausage & Tripe Stew, Duck Rillettes
Arrow Centerville 615 Lyons Rd Saturday, April 7, 2007 11 am - 5 pm 2005 Zuani Bianco… 2005 Hey Mambo… 2005 Plungerhead Zinfandel… 2004 Elizabeth Spencer Syrah… 2005 Joel Gott Cabernet Sauvignon… 2004 Ramey Claret
Trader Joe’s, Town & Country Kettering Trader Joe’s in Kettering at Stroop and Far Hills This week tasting Thursday 6-8: No Sunday tasting - Happy Easter! Ulrich Langguth Riesling (2005) QbA Hessische Bergstrasse, Germany. La Ferme Julien Rosé (2005) AOC Cotes de Ventoux, France. Nerello del Bastardo Nebbiolo (2000) Italy.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar ( at The Greene ) 937-320-9548 Wine Wednesdays from 5pm to 7pm in the bar. There will be four different two ounce tastes every week and will provide different appetizers through out the night to pair with these wines. Features for Wednesday April 4, 2007 5pm to 7pm CHEHALEM Chardonnay Williamette Valley Inox, 2005 ESTANCIA Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands Stonewall Vineyard, 2003 TITUS Zinfandel Napa Valley, 2004 SILVER OAK Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley, 2002
Little Sonoma, 6078 West Chester Road, West Chester, OH 45069. 513-942-9463. Located two blocks north of Union Centre Blvd. at the corner of Muhlhauser and West Chester Roads www.LittleSonomaWines.com Friday, April 6th, 7 pm ~ The Shiraz-Syrah Shootout! Reservations recommended. Robert Rothschild Farm will provide appetizers for this event. Saturday, April 7th, 3-6 pm ~ Patio Wines
Winds Cafe Yellow Springs Friday, April 27, 2007 - 7 pm Southern French Wine Tasting. An evening of unique Provencal wines paired with Southern French dishes. Call 937-767-9441 to make reservations.
Villa di Giovanni Wine Tasting! Wednesday, April 11, 2007, 1100 E. Dayton Yellow Springs Rd. 5-7 p.m. Masi Campofiorin Cecchi Sangiovese Blend Bonizio Sangiovese Blend Banfi Classico Chianti Reservo
l’Auberge Restaurant l’Auberge is presenting its first Wine Dinner of 2007 on April 12th at 7pm, featuring, a pairing of ethnic foods and wines from Hungary and Bulgaria. Four courses, four wines- $75.00. 299-5536 for reservations.
La Petite France 3177 Glendate-Milford Road Cincinnati, Ohio www.lapetitefrance.biz Call 513-733-8383
The restaurant presents a “Taste of France” featuring gourmet specialties from seven different regions of France on the last Friday of each month, they will offer a special three course dinner from the Alsace, Bordeaux, Brittany, Dijon, Normandy, Provence, and Toulouse regions of France.
On Friday evening, April 13th at 6:30 pm, La Petite France will host a wine dinner tasting entitled “California and French Side by Side Tasting”. The price is $60 per person. Aperitifs will be served at 6:30 pm.
FLEURS DE FETE DONATIONS needed!!! Fleurs de Fete, Sunday, May 20th from 1-4pm at Carillon Historical Park:
Fleurs de Fete is actively seeking donations from private individuals for the live auction. Enjoy a tax-deduction and recognition in the program booklet at the event (if desired.) Contact Laura Lanier (Wellness Connection) at 223-4117 ext. 112. Fleurs de Fete will feature over 300 wines and food samples from Dayton’s finest restaurants with the proceeds benefiting the Wellness Connection of the Dayton Region.
Wine Tasting at the Dayton Philharmonic Show House by Sip’s CafeThursday May 10 - 6:00 - 7:30 Thursday May 17 - 6:00 - 7:30 www.dpva.org You must purchase a show house ticket - wine tasting is a $3.00 donation. Parking is at Sugar Camp on W Schantz Avenue. Free shuttles will run all evening. www.dpva.org
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When Spectator and Parker ratings wildly disagree: Whom to trust?
It was an intriguing idea for a wine tasting: Take a half-dozen wines on which Wine Spectator and Robert Parker disagreed substantially on their ratings, and figure out which one was right — and which was wrong.
That was the premise of a recent tasting organized and hosted by Dayton-area ophthalmologist Michael Kunesh, who found six wines with scores that diverged in score anywhere from 6 to 14 points. In three cases, the Spectator rated the the wine higher, and in three cases, it was Parker who was more generous with his score.
Here were the wines:
— 1997 Merryvale Vineyards Proprietary Red (Parker 89 points, Spectator 97)
— 2003 Branson Coach House Shiraz (Parker 98, Spectator 92)
— 1997 Antinori Guado al Tasso Bolgheri (Parker 88, Spectator 96)
— 2003 Dominus (Parker 95, Spectator 81)
— 1995 Phillip Togni Cabernet Sauvignon (Parker 96, Spectator 88)
— 1997 Spring Mountain Estate Reserve (Parker 88, Spectator 95)
Kunesh served the wines blind for us to make our own determination (on the 100-point scale, naturally), and to give us the chance to guess the identity of the wines. That task was made more difficult when one of the wines — it was revealed later to be the Antinori — was corked. The level of TCA was substantial enough to make the wine impossible to evaluate.
My favorite of the night (95 points) was the ‘97 Spring Mountain — a wine with just a smidge of brett-like barnyard in the aromas, and waves of complex flavors that just kept coming over the course of a long, luxurious finish. Both the Merryvale and the Dominus (94 points) came in tied for second on my score sheet.
None of the wines showed poorly (with the exception of the corked wine, of course). None seemed to contain elements that I would think would be controversial, with the possible exception of the whiff of brett in the Spring Mountain. So in essence, I have no clue how two such influential tasting conglomerates such as Parker and Spectator could diverge so dramatically, especially on the Dominus, with its 14-point difference.
Who “won” the credibility battle? Alas, there was no clear-cut winner. My selection of Spring Mountain aligned me more with the Spectator rating, but I was almost equally impressed with the Dominus, which the Spectator scored an 81. I didn’t like the Australian Shiraz nearly as much as Parker did, but my score on the Togni aligned with his more closely than the Spectator’s.
So … could Parker and Spectator both be fallible? Sacrilege!
Oh, and I correctly identified only two of the five wines, the Merryvale and the Branson (the Aussie was close to a gimme). Oh, the shame and humiliation of the blind tasting….
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Rhone, Italian varietals in Ohio? Who knew? One NYC psychiatrist, that’s who
First, thank you for the excellent suggestions and advice for Cathy and Elizabeth yesterday, and as Cathy says in a comment — keep ‘em coming! But as always, we move on…
I’m working on a more in-depth piece on this topic and will share the link when it’s available, but Hermes Vineyards in Sandusky is too fascinating to keep secret.
The Ohio winery, with 30 acres of vineyards, is located near Sandusky, Ohio, not far from my old stomping grounds of Fremont, where I worked my first newspaper job out of college. I sure didn’t recognize the region as a hotbed for growing vinifera grapes from the Rhone region of France and from Italy, but that’s exactly what Hermes proprietor Dr. David Kraus is doing.
Kraus is a Sandusky native, but his “day job” has taken him to New York City, where he is a psychiatrist with a private practice in Manhattan. But he flies back to Sandusky frequently to keep an eye on his vineyards and winery. The land he’s cultivating for wine grapes has been in his family for more then 150 years. Kraus will tell you — and will produce data to back it up — that the microclimate in and around Sandusky is very conducive to growing wine grapes, especially those of Rhone and Italian varieties.
Now, fortunes have been lost on attempting to grow these European grapes in the wrong parts of Ohio, where the frigid winters kill the more sensitive vinifera vines. Yet, Sandusky — at one time the wine-grape-growing capital of the U.S. — benefits from the moderating influence of the Great Lakes, which provides an extended growing season.
Kraus has planted two dozen grape varieties, including Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Viognier, Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon — you get the idea.
Of course, the proof is in the glass. And Hermes delivers. Pour some of these wines “blind” for wine enthusiasts, and they’ll never guess the wines came from Ohio. I did just that last Friday at Jay’s Kitchen Door, where the 2006 Hermes Viognier was quite a favorite of the tasters, and the 2006 Hermes Syrah converted a few folks as well. Both wines cost about $15.
Add Hermes to the success that Kinkead Ridge has enjoyed with vinifera grapes down in Ripley, and that many other Ohio wineries are enjoying as well, and, well, I’ll repeat what I wrote after the Cincinnati International Wine Festival: If Ohio wines were a stock, I’d be buying.
If you’re in the neighborhood of Sandusky this summer (Cedar Point, perhaps?), stop in at Hermes’ tasting room. Or make a special trip and visit some of the neighboring wineries too.
There is fun and exciting stuff happening in our own backyard. And a visit sure is cheaper than a trip to the Rhone or Italy….
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Two Uncorked readers need your help
Usually, Uncorked acts as a wine blog, in which some schmuck who looks a lot like the guy holding the wine glasses up there on the right delivers an opinion about something wine-related and readers are free to comment.
But once in a while, this page becomes a bulletin board of sorts, where readers can post queries and get advice or help from the community of folks who read these pages (that’s you!).
First up is Cathy, chair of the local chapter of the American Wine Society, who writes:
The Dayton Chapter of the American Wine Society is in need of new wine glasses, probably around 200 or so. Being the non-profit organization that we are, we don’t want to spend any more than necessary. Where do restaurants get their wine glasses? Do you have any ideas that could help us?
And second we have Elizabeth, who works as a marketing intern for a Dayton-based custom-made book company called The Book Factory (she also works weekends at Market Wine down at the Second Street Market), who writes:
My current project is to research wine journals/logs. This includes what customers look for when recording their favorite wines and how the journals may be set up. Since this is a completely new project for the company, we are open to any insight wine lovers may have for the journals. As of right now, I have thoughts on creating a pocket-size wine journal. Some categories I thought about adding to the journal are: wine name, country of origin, producer, taste, wine best served with, price and overall consumer rating. If we could get some wine lover’s insight on a product like this so I could come up with a prototype, that would be fantastic! If you may have any suggestions for me, or perhaps know a few contacts that I could reach, I would appreciate any information.
Can anybody help Cathy or Elizabeth by posting a comment with advice or suggestions?
Thanks and cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Decanter.com pulls off Paris Hilton April Fool’s Day hoax on wine world
The story almost had me. Allllllll-most had me.
It was Decanter.com’s story entitled “Paris Hilton to be new face of Bordeaux”. Beautifully written as a straight news story (oh, the subtlety of the British … ), it was only the date — April 1 — that gave it away. Barely… .
As you may have seen if you clicked on the above link to read the Decanter story, I dashed off a comment Sunday after I read the piece that suggested I almost believed what I was reading, and, “That’s either a sad commentary on how gullible I am or on the state of wine marketing today — that this seemed, for a moment, entirely plausible.”
So I wake up early this morning and find that neither my comment nor any other comments have been posted on the story, and there has been no retraction or “Gotcha!” statement from the Decanter.com folks. Meanwhile, WineBusiness.com has linked to the Decanter story from its home page. And now I’m beginning to wonder again. You don’t suppose …It couldn’t be … Could it?
So I email the Decanter.com folks and receive a prompt reply from the writer of the piece, Oliver Styles, assuring me that yes, it is a hoax, and comments will be appended shortly (and in fact are there now, including mine).
Okay, so I’m embarrassed to say I began to doubt my original conclusion, if even for a moment. But from some of the comments Decanter received, it appears perhaps some did not get the joke at all — the great risk (or reward) of staging these April Fool’s Day hoaxes.
So no, Paris Hilton will not be serving as the spokeswoman for Bordeaux wines.
Which means, of course, that she’s still available for hire. Australian wine producers — are you thinking what I’m thinking?
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Best guide to California Wine Country?
Anybody have a favorite guide to California Wine Country?
Here’s why I ask: There’s a brand-spanking-new one out that I haven’t seen, but sounds intriguing. Here’s what the book’s marketing folks have to say about it:
SUNSET PUBLISHES ITS GUIDE TO CALIFORNIA WINE COUNTRY — INCLUDES TIPS ON 275 WINERIES TO VISIT, WHERE TO EAT, PLACES TO STAY AND MORE Menlo Park, Calif. - Sunset publishes its guide to California Wine Country. The 160-page book, written by Sunset Editor-at-Large Peter Fish and Wine Editor Sara Schneider, is a perfect travel companion for anyone planning a trip to the California region. California Wine Country: A Sunset Field Guide is available for $19.95 in bookstores nationwide and through online retailers such as amazon.com beginning March 31. The book offers details on 275 wineries to visit and hundreds of tips on where to eat and stay. Plus: California Wine Country includes 29 maps for the first-time wine-country traveler and its cover is wine-proof so it won’t be ruined if you spill during a tasting. “We wanted to provide wine lovers and travelers with an in-depth, but easy-to-follow guide to the amazing region of the California wine country,” says Fish. “Sunset is devoted to the coverage of wine and this area, that it seems only natural we publish this book.” This is the first wine guide Sunset has published in 20 years. The magazine has covered the well established and emerging regions of California wine country through its entire 108-year existence. Today, with wine-country travel at an all-time high, the magazine includes more wine stories in its pages than ever - from small tips for quick local trips to the most interesting tasting rooms, to larger weekend getaways in Napa and Sonoma and beyond, to full-on features covering the state’s rich emerging regions like the Sierra Foothills and Paso Robles on the Central California Coast. In addition, Sunset includes a wine guide each month, full of news about wine trends in the West and tips on buying, pairing, and serving wine.
Well, you’ve gotta like the “wine-proof cover” line, at the very least …
What resources have you used in planning a wine-country trip?
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