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January 2009
The Ancient Greeks knew how to drink — we don’t
The best wine-related read on the web at the moment is this piece on the New York Times Proof blog entitled “Tipsy Hero”.
Here’s an excerpt:
The Greeks taught us plenty about philosophy, government and art. And we can learn from their drinking, too. They loved wine, yet knew that its consumption must be carefully controlled. The fermented grape was an exalted, mysterious object: the notion of “needing” to get drunk, of using alcohol to deaden the difficulties of being alive, would have seemed like the perversion of a passion enjoyed by gods and mortals alike.
… In modern times, it seems we readily migrate to the extremes, either abusing alcohol or treating it as if it doesn’t exist, without acknowledging a healthy middle ground.
Hear hear.
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February looms and wine tastings glisten
Sure it’s cold. Sure it’s snowy. Sure it’s icy.
It’s Ohio in January. And February.
But a Dayton-based wine listserv brings the heat in the form of this wine tastings and events list that Uncorked is pleased as punch to copy and paste every Friday.
Looking for a highlight? Consider the Barolo and Barbaresco wine luncheon tomorrow (Jan. 31) at Jay’s Restaurant. Not only does the menu sound good, but Michael Brown says his boss, Vintner Select owner and president Gordon Hullar, is scheduled to attend to share his expertise on the majestic nebbiolo-based wines of Italy. And Hullar knows a thing or two about Italian wines.
Click on “continue reading” if the wine-tastings list doesn’t appear below. And for information regarding Cincinnati-area wine events, go to Michelle’s My Wine Education blog.
Cheers!
Jay’s Kitchen Door
Friday, Jan 30, 2009 4-8 pm High end Barolos and Barbarescos wines from Moccagatta, La Spinetta, and Mario Marengo
Saturday, Jan 31, 2009 1-6 pm High end Barolos and Barbarescos wines from Moccagatta, La Spinetta, and Mario Marengo
RSVP 222-2892 for all Dinners and Luncheon 12:30 pm $65 Saturday, January 31, 2009 Barolo, Barbaresco Luncheon with Michael Brown Meet and Greet - Goat cheese truffles made three ways with peppercorns 1st course - Acorn squash custard with roasted cipolline onions and sage oil 2 nd course - Chicken liver raviolis with pancetta 3 rd course - Braised short ribs with pumpkin orzo 4th course - Lemon goat cheese cheesecake
Saturday, February 21, 2009 Bordeaux Luncheon 12:30 pm $75
Arrow Far Hills - Kettering
Saturday, Jan 31, 2009 11-4 pm 2006 Seifried Riesling 2008 Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2006 Ogier Heritages Cotes du Rhone 2003 Ocone Aglianico 2006 Altos de la Hoya Monastrell 2005 B.V. Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Saturday Feb 7, 2009 11 - 5 pm Far Hills Store only Awesome Aussies with Australian Importer, The Grateful Palate
Saturday, Feby 14, 2009, 11 - 5 pm Valentines Super Saturday Wine Tasting 11 am ‘til 5 pm Both Arrow Stores
Dorothy Lane Market (DLM) Oakwood
Friday, Jan 30, 2009, 5:00-8:00 pm Albert Mann ’07 Pinot Blanc Domaine Servin ’06 Chablis Les Amis de la Bouissiere ‘07 Ken Wright ’07 Savoya Pinot Noir Wolf Blass ’03 Gray Label Cabernet Gini ’00 Messere Brown Bag
Saturday, Jan 31, 2009 2-6 pm Scambia Gualdo di Meana ’06 Orvieto J Lohr ’06 Arroyo Seco Chardonnay Tapestry ’06 Shiraz Elizabeth Spencer ’07 Pinot Noir La Storia ’04 Meritage Audelssa ’05 Cabernet Bonus Bottle
Dorothy Lane Springboro
Friday, Jan 30, 2009, 3:00-7:00 pm Hexamer Riseling Kabinett 2006 Fontara Candida Frascati 2007 Esterline Pinot Noir 2004 Virco Goose Ridge Red 2004 Mystery Wine
Saturday, Jan 31, 2009 12-6 pm Joseph Drouhin Clos des Mouches (Blanc) 2002 Nicholas Potel Nuits Saint George 1er Cru 2001 Latancia Chianti 2006 Mollydooker The Scooter Merlot 2007 Starlane Astral Cabernet 2005
Cuvee Wine Bar and Cellar, 4457 State Route 725 Bellbrook 848-2161
Tuesday - Thursday 11:30 - 7 pm, Friday 11:30 - 8 pm Saturday 11:30 - 7 pm www.cuveewinebar.net Wines for Tuesday, Jan 27 - Jan 29, 2008 Darting 2007 Riesling Spatlese Mapema 2008 Sauvignon Blanc Crios 2007 Malbec Protos 2006 Tinta del Pais Tempranillo Budini 2006 Cabernet La Posta 2007 Red Blend
Arrow Centerville 937-433-6778
615 Lyons Rd Centerville Friday, Jan 30, 2009 5-8 pm Beer Tasting Hacker Pschorr - Munich, Germany Munich Gold Lager… Hacker Pschorr - Munich, Germany - Weisse… Hacker Pschorr - Munich, Germany - Sternweisse… Lagunitas - Hairy Eyeball… Speakeasy Brewery - Untouchable Pale Ale
Saturday, Jan 31, 2009 11 am-5 pm Wine Tasting 2007 La Cala Vermentino… 2008 Santa Rita Reserva Sauvignon Blanc… 2007 Santa Rita Reserva Carmenere… 2006 Santa Rita Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon… 2005 Santa Rita Medalla Real Cabernet Sauvignon… 2006 Mont Gras Antu Syrah
Rue Dumaine www.ruedumainerestaurant.com
Tuesday, Feb 2, 2009 5-7 pm TAMARACK CELLARS Merlot Columbia Valley, 2005 SPRING VALLEY VINEYARD Uriah Merlot Blend Walla Walla, 2006 CHATEAU STE. MICHELLE Indian Wells Cabernet Columbia Valley, 2006
The Wine Gallery and Cafe, Corner of 3rd and Wayne
Wednesday, Feb 4, 2009 5:30pm - 8 pm 2006 Massori Ranch Zinfandel 2006 Nostro Vino Vineyards Zinfandel 2006 Rocca Angelo Barbera 2004 DiStefano Winery Meritage 2006 Krupp Brothers BLACK BART Stage Coach Vineyards Syrah
Thursday, Feb 5, 2009 from 5:30 - 8:30PM Beer Tasting
Trader Joe’s in Kettering . Tastings Thursday 6:00-8:00 and Sunday 4:00-7:00 Napa River Sauvignon Blanc (2006) AVA Napa County, California. Napa River Syrah (2005) AVA Napa County, California. Incanto (2005) DOCG Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Italy.
Beers: Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA. Arrogant Bastard Ale.
A Taste of Wine 90 S. Main St Miamisburg, OH 937.247-1120 www.atasteofwine.org
This week’s wines: Dunham Cellars Four Legged White Monkey Bay Sauvignon Blanc Rex Goliath Chardonnay Bully Hill Love my Goat Red Mad Dogs and Englishman Osborne Solaz Tempranillo/Cabernet Sauvignon
1/29 - Port Tasting 7 pm 2/4 - Italian Dinner & Wine Tasting 6:30pm $50 Reservations Required
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar at The Greene in Beavercreek 937-320-9548
Wine Wednesdays in the bar. Feb 4, 2009 4-8 pm
Bruning’s Wine Cellar in Beavercreek
Saturday, Jan 31, 2008 1-4 pm Featuring Wines from Mandolin Riesling, Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet, Syrah, Old Vine Zin February 4 from 5-8 PM and Saturday February 7 from 1-4 PM 2007 O’Reillys Riesling 2006 Toad Hollow Chardonnay 2007 O’Reillys Pinot Noir 2005 Toad Hollow Merlot NV Toad Hollow Erik’s The Red 2006 Tonjum Cellars Curious Beagle Cabernet
The Culinary Company Cross Pointe Center
Saturday, Jan 31, 2009 12-6 pm Moulin-A-Vent Red Beaujolais Wine Chateau La Bardonne Bordeaux Chateau Bonnet Entre-Deux-Mers Sauvignon Blanc
The Winds Cafe and Bakery - Yellow Springs
Saturday, January 31, 2009 3 pm RSVP Wine 101
Bella Vino Wine Merchant & Bar, Springboro, OH 45066
Thursday, Jan 29, 2009 6-8 pm Saturday, Jan 31, 2008 12-4 pm Chateau Bonnet Entre-Deux-Mers, 2007 (White Bordeaux) Macon-Lugny “Les Charmes” Chardonnay, 2007 (White Burgundy) Jean-Luc Colombo Les Abeilles, 2005, Cotes Du Rhone Chateau Lagarosse, 2005 Grand Vin De Bordeaux Chateau de Candale, 2005 Saint-Emilion Grand Cru In honor of Restaurant Week this week’s tasting is $20.09
During Restaurant Week, Bella Vino is participating by offering wine and food flights for $20.09 which includes an appetizer, entree and dessert.
Miami Valley Wine and Spirits Tipp City
Friday, Jan 30, 2009 5-9 pm Ledgwood Creek Cab/Sauv Ledgewood Creek Merlot Ledgewood Creek Chard. Ledgewood Creek GSM Villa Giada Moscato
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
A Sampling of Fine Italian Wines, January 30th & 31st Friday’s tasting is 4:30-7:30 pm and Saturday is 3-6 pm
Wine Enrichment Series - February 4, 11, 18 & 25, from 6-8 pm. Cost is $75 per person for the series. Call 513-942-9463 to enroll.
Jungle Jim’s International Market www.junglejims.com 513-674-6000
Jan 31 1-3 pm $15 A Walkabout Wine Tasting: End of Bin Specials
Inn at Versailles
Friday, Feb. 6, 2009 6:30 pm Italian (Piedmont ) Wine Tasting and antipasti - RSVP appreciated.
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Who needs Viagra? Study shows wine may protect men against impotence
I am not making this … up.
A study in Australia suggests that wine may protect men against impotence, according to Decanter.com.
Now if I’m reading the story correctly, the “benefit” may not be limited to wine, since the effect appears to be linked to alcohol consumption and not specifically to wine consumption. (This story from NewScientist.com headlined “Alcohol stops men being a flop in bed” seems to corroborate the notion that this is not a wine-only benefit.) So presumably, beer drinkers and spirits enthusiasts may derive the same benefit as wine drinkers — as long as they do not drink to excess.
“It would be socially irresponsible to say that even a binge drinker can get some benefits,” one of the study’s authors told Decanter.
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Fleurs de Fete controversy may mean big changes in food-and-wine event
A fallout between some of the chief organizers of the Fleurs de Fete and the charity that benefits from it may bring changes to the 2009 event.
And it may create two separate wine-and-food festivals.
Mif Frank, who with his father Mike oversees the Arrow Wine & Spirits Far Hills Avenue store in Kettering, said today, Jan. 27, that the Wellness Connection of the Dayton Region walked out of an organizational meeting this morning after hearing that organizers were considering adding a second beneficiary: CultureWorks.
“They decided it was 100 percent or nothing, and they got up and left,” Frank said.
Jean Farkas, president of the Wellness Connection, declined to discuss the matter in detail, but said there had been “some serious miscommunication, and we’re trying to sort it out. We’re not sure how this will unfold.”
The Wellness Connection, formerly known as the Dayton Area Heart and Cancer Association, has been the sole beneficiary of the Fleurs de Fete since its inception more than 15 years ago. The event is held each year on the third Sunday in May at Carillon Historical Park.
Vail Miller Jr. of Heidelberg Distributing, a wine wholesaler that donates much of the wine served at the wine-and-food festival, said he was disappointed in the actions of Wellness Connection officials, but he said Heidelberg and Arrow would collaborate to keep the Fleurs de Fete going.
It’s not clear who “owns” the “Fleurs de Fete” name. Frank said the event was the brainchild of his father Mike and of Vail Miller of Heidelberg. But the Wellness Connection has already applied for the permit necessary to serve wine on May 17, 2009, when the Fleurs de Fete is scheduled. And Farkas said, “We obviously want to do the event and want to go forward.”
Arrow and Heidelberg are looking at June 7 for a wine-and-food festival, Frank said. Miller said, “We’re hoping for the best Fleurs de Fete yet,” and Frank said, “It will be bigger and better than ever.”
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Learning about wine: more Wine 101 (and 201) classes coming to SW Ohio
Would you, or someone you know, be interested in learning more about wine?
I can’t think of anyone who could truthfully answer “no” to that question.
And the opportunities are knocking. Consider:
— The Winds Cafe and Wine Cellar in Yellow Springs will host a two-part Wine 101 class on Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Here’s how the folks at The Winds describe it:
(Do you) enjoy wine but feel intimated by restaurant wine lists, wine labels and wine store clerks? Want to learn how to describe, in wine terms, the elements of wine you enjoy? Want to learn the 6 noble grapes, taste some interesting wine and food with a group all in the same boat?
If the answer is yes, call the wine cellar at 937-767-9441 for reservations or more information. The two-part classes are scheduled for 3 p.m. on Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. The $90 cost covers both.
— Bella Vino Wine Merchants & Bar in Springboro will offer “Introduction to Wine” on the second Tuesday of the month. Here’s what Bella Vino’s Dave Sauer had to say about it:
We are putting together 3 classes that can be taken in a Series or individually, titled “Intro to Wines” They will fall on the 2nd Tuesday of the month. Each class will be $25 per person and will be held at Bella Vino in our private events room. There is a $15 discount if they purchase the Series. The 1st class will be Intro to Wine (Feb 10th): This is an overview class Classic Varietals How to read wine labels Basic terminology Learn to how to taste wine Taste 6 - 8 wines
The 2nd class: Learning to Taste White Wines (March 10th): White varietals Regions of white wines Understanding white wine labels Taste 6 - 8 wines The 3rd class: Learning to Taste Red Wines (April 14th) Red varietals Regions of Red wines Understanding Red wine labels Taste 6 - 8 wines
I will also have a more specific class on the 4th Tuesday of the Month. These classes will revolve around specific regions or varietals. They will also be $25 per person held at Bella Vino in our private events room. First one is Feb 24th South American Wines.
For more information on the Bella Vino tastings, call 937-748-3807.
The American Wine School we told you about several months back — it’s based in Cleveland and operated by Fairborn native Marianne Frantz — is coming to Dayton, at least for a series of classes April 24 and 25 to be held at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar in at The Greene in Beavercreek.
The class schedule includes “Wine 101: How to Taste Like a Pro,” April 24th from 6pm-8pm; “Varietals I: The World’s Classic Grapes,” April 25th from 1pm-3pm; and “Varietals II: Flavor Profiling Around the Globe,” April 25th from 4pm - 6pm. Price: $45 per person or $100 per person for all three classes. Each class includes a power-point presentation followed by a tutored tasting of 6-8 wines. Take a look at the school’s web site class schedule or contact Marianne at mfrantz@americanwineschool.com, or call (216) 831-9919.
Frantz, by the way, launched a school dedicated to wine education in 2002. Originally known as the Cleveland Wine School, the organization expanded to markets across the country under the name American Wine School.
I emailed Frantz and asked why she selected Dayton for a class. Here was her reply:
“Dayton is known in the wine industry as a wine-savvy market. Further, over the past two years, the American Wine School has received many inquires through its blog and website looking for course availability in the Dayton area. Lastly, it is a market I’m familar with as I’m originally from Fairborn, Ohio.”
If I’m missing any Wine 101-type classes or tastings, please do post a comment and let us know about them.
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Dayton shows its heart — AND its love for wine
If there was ever any doubt that Daytonians have a big heart when it comes to worthy causes — and a big thirst for wine knowledge — last night (1-24-09) should put that doubt to rest.
There were two “competing” wine events (and charity fundraisers) on Saturday night’s schedule: the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery’s “Science of Wine” event, which by all accounts was a smashing success, and the “Let It Breathe” benefit to support the Dayton Cystic Fibrosis Foundation held at the same time at the Taj Ma Garaj in downtown Dayton, which from personal account, was a smashing success.
An estimated 350 people attended the Boonshoft event at at least $75 a pop (Click here to view photos from the Boonshoft tasting, while I know the Cystic Fibrosis tasting was a sellout, with the $100 VIP tickets selling out well in advance of the event.
That, my friends, reflects well on the Dayton community, and bodes well for us local wine enthusiasts as well.
Congratulations to both organizations — and to those who attended!
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Poke the recession in the eye, taste wine today
Is it nobler to suffer the slings and arrows of an outrageous economy, or should we take arms against the sea of troubles, and by tasting, end them?
That Billy-Bob Shakespeare had a way with words, didn’t he?
Here’s the bestest wine list in all of Dayton and the greater Miami Valley, and it comes to Uncorked courtesy of the Dayton-based wine listerv that compiles it, and, well, I, for one, am Thankful for that. With a capital T.
So by all means, use this list to take arms against a sea of troubles, and by opposing, end them.
Jay’s Kitchen Door
Friday, Jan 23, 2009 4-8 pm 2005 Domaine Ostertag Heisenberg Riesling 2006 Domaine Franacois Betheau Bonnes-Mares 2005 Steltzner Pinotage 2005 Chateau Batailley (Pauillac) 2000 Chateau L’Hermitage (Saint Emilion)
Saturday, Jan 24, 2009 1-6 pm 2005 Domaine Ostertag Muenchberg Riesling 2001 Palmaz Vineyard Napa Cabernet 2004 Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 Chateau Bahans (Haut-Brion)
RSVP 222-2892 for all Dinners and Luncheons
12:30 pm $65 Saturday, January 31, 2009
Barolo, Barbaresco Luncheon with Michael Brown Meet and Greet - Goat cheese truffles made three ways with peppercorns 1st course - Acorn squash custard with roasted cipolline onions and sage oil 2 nd course - Chicken liver raviolis with pancetta 3 rd course - Braised short ribs with pumpkin orzo 4th course - Lemon goat cheese cheesecake
Saturday, February 21, 2009 Bordeaux Luncheon 12:30 pm $75
Arrow Far Hills - Kettering
Saturday, Jan 24, 2009 11-4 pm 2007 Dr. Loosen Riesling 2007 Unique Sauvignon Blanc Loire Valley 2007 Hangtime Pinot Noir California 2005 Chalone Vineyard Estate Syrah 2005 Chateau Pey La Tour Bordeaux Superior 2005 Telegramme Chateauneuf Du Pape
Dorothy Lane Market (DLM) Oakwood
Friday, Jan 23, 2009, 5:00-8:00 pm Paras Vineyard ’05 Viognier Hangtime ’07 Chardonnay Catena ’06 Malbec St. Hallet Faith ’06 Shiraz Gregory Graham ’05 Syrah Chateau Fortia ’06 Chateauneuf du Pape Brown Bag
Saturday, Jan 24, 2009 2-6 pm David Bantly of Dierberg Estate Vineyards Inspired by the great wines of Burgundy, Dierberg is known for producing beautifully crafted Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs under the Dierberg, Star Lane and Three Saints labels. Three Saints ’05 Chardonnay Dierberg ’05 Chardonnay Three Saints ’06 Pinot Noir Dierberg ’06 Pinot Noir Dierberg ’05 Syrah Three Saints ’05 Merlot Star Lane ’05 Cabernet Star Lane ’05 Astral Cabernet
DLM Washington Square
Thursday, Jan 22, 2009 5-8 pm 2007 Guindon Muscadet 2005 Louis Jadot Vosne Romanee 2006 Selvitico Cannonau di Sardegna 2003 Castello Romitorio Donna di Rango 2005 Rombauer Cabernet Sauvignon Encore Wine!
Saturday, Jan 24, 2009 12-5 pm 2005 L’Aventure Roussanne 2006 Merryvale Starmont Chardonnay 2007 Del Rio Pinot Noir 2007 Garofoli Monte Reale Sangiovese 2005 Helix Pomatia 2005 Audelssa Cabernet Sauvignon Encore Wine!
Dorothy Lane Springboro
Friday, Jan 23, 2009, 3:00-7:00 pm Clean Slate Riesling 2007 Del Rio Vineyards Pinot Noir 2007 Bertani Catullo 2002 Campo Quadro Barbaresco 2001 Mystery Wine
Beers Coney Island Human Block Head Southern Tier Gemini
Saturday, Jan 24, 2009 12-6 pm Reymos Muscat NV Wellington Vineyards Merlot 2004 St Hallett The Faith Shiraz 2005 Naiara Reserve Malbec 2006 Audelssa Cabernet 2004 Bonus Bottle (Clio 2006)
Cuvee Wine Bar and Cellar, 4457 State Route 725 Bellbrook 848-2161
Tuesday - Thursday 11:30 - 7 pm, Friday 11:30 - 8 pm Saturday 11:30 - 7 pm www.cuveewinebar.net Wines for Tuesday, Jan 27 - Jan 29, 2008 A new list of wines will be available Tuesday!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009 4:30 - 7 pm Soup Night! Vermont Beer Cheese Soup
Arrow Centerville 937-433-6778
615 Lyons Rd Centerville Friday, Jan 23, 2009 5-8 pm Beer Tasting Avery - Ale! to the Chief - A Presidential Pale Ale… Stone - Levitation Ale… Celis Brewery Grand Cru… Celis Brewery White… Celis Brewery Raspberry
Saturday, Jan 24, 2009 11 am-5 pm Wine Tasting 2007 Chateau Lamothe White Bordeaux… 2005 Wine By Joe Pinot Blanc… 2007 McManis Petite Sirah… 2006 Boxcar Pinot Noir… 2006 Delisio Quarterback… 2006 Bonanno Cabernet Sauvignon… 2004 Steltzner Barrel Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Rue Dumaine www.ruedumainerestaurant.com
Tuesday, Jan 27, 2009 5-7 pm LANG & REED Cabernet Franc Premier Etage Napa Valley, 2003 SAINT—DAMIEN Gigondas Vieilles Vignes, 2005 ORIN SWIFT The Prisoner Napa Valley, 2007
The Wine Gallery and Cafe, Corner of 3rd and Wayne
Wednesday, Jan 28, 2009 5:30pm - 8 pm Restaurant Week Wine Tasting $20.09 for the tasting and $5.00 being donated to the MVRA Benefit. 2004 AIDA Zinfandel (Vineyard 29) 2005 RED CAR Shake Rattle and Roll Syrah 2006 Shotfire Ridge Shiraz 2006 Z52 Old Vine Zinfandel 2007 Seven Daughters White
Trader Joe’s in Kettering.
Tastings Thursday 6:00-8:00 and Sunday 4:00-7:00 Condessa de Sarabella Viura (2007) DO Calatayud, Spain. Condessa de Sarabella Garnacha (2007) DO Calatayud, Spain. Slow Paseo Organic Tempranillo-Merlot (2006) DO La Mancha, Spain. Tato (2005) DOC Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Italy. Sebastien Roux Volnay (2005) AOC Volnay, France.
A Taste of Wine 90 S. Main St Miamisburg, OH 937.247-1120 www.atasteofwine.org
This week’s wines: Michael David Symphony Les Eymeries Bordeaux Colores del Sol Malbec Clos La Chance Zinfandel So Cab
1/23 - Porters & Stouts Beer Tasting 1/28 - Women & Wine on Wednesday (WOW) 7pm 1/29 - Port Tasting 7 pm 2/4 - Italian Dinner & Wine Tasting …6:30
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 937-320-9548
Wine Wednesdays in the bar. Jan 28, 2009 4-8 pm domaine chandon Brut, Napa Valley, Chardonnay Reserve, 2001 georges duboeuf Pinot Noir, Julienas Château des Capitans France, 2006 two hands Shiraz, Angels Share McLaren Vale Australia, 2007 Havens Merlot, Napa Valley, 2005
Bruning’s Wine Cellar
Saturday, Jan 24, 2008 1-4 pm Featuring Wines from Paraiso and Santa Lucia Highlands
The Culinary Company Cross Pointe Center
Saturday, Jan 24, 2009 12-6 pm Schloss Vollrads Qualitatswein Rheingau Riesling (Taste $3.00) Schloss Vollrads Kabinett Rheingau Riesling (Taste $3.00) Tamari Reserva Malbec (Taste $3.00)
Fifth St. Wine and Deli
Saturday, Jan 24, 2009 4 - 9 pm Wine: Brancott Sauvignon Blanc Clos la Chance Nior Gundlach-Bundschu Noir Le Coq Rouge Jacuzzi Cabernet
Beer: Schmaltz Human Blockhead St. Bernardus Samuel Smith Taddy Porter Founder’s Double Trouble New Holland The Poet
The Winds Cafe and Bakery - Yellow Springs
Saturday, January 31, 2009 3 pm RSVP Wine 101
Bella Vino Wine Merchant & Bar, Springboro
Thursday, Jan 22, 2009 6-8 pm Saturday, Jan 24, 2008 12-4 pm La Crema Sonoma County Chardonnay La Crema Monterey County Chardonnay La Crema Sonoma County Pinot Noir La Crema Monterey County Pinot Noir Caravan Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
During Restaurant Week, Bella Vino is participating by offering wine and food flights for $20.09 which includes an appetizer, entree and dessert.
Cork&Vine York Commons Blvd./Miller Lane
Friday, Jan 23, 2009 Miami Valley Wine and Spirits Tipp City
Friday, Jan 23, 2009 5-9 pm Wines of Francis Ford Coppola Sauvignon Blanc Pinot Grigio Chardonnay Merlot Cabernet Claret
Little Sonoma, 6078 West Chester Road, West Chester, 513-942-9463.
Located two blocks north of Union Centre Blvd. at the corner of Muhlhauser and West Chester Roads www.LittleSonomaWines.com This weekend, a Zinfest! Friday, January 23, 4:30 - 7:30 pm Saturday, January 24, 3-6 pm McManis Zinfandel Toad hollow Zinfandel C.G. di Arie Zinfandel Wild Hog Zinfandel Fritz Dry Creek Zinfandel
Wine Enrichment Series - February 4, 11, 18 & 25, from 6-8 pm. Cost is $75 per person for the series. Call 513-942-9463 to enroll.
La Petite France www.lapetitefrance.biz
Friday , January 23, 2009 “Splendid Spanish Tasting” featuring a variety of outstanding Spanish wines. $60 per person. 6:30pm. RSVP 513-733-8383 Aperitif - Pampano “Inspiration”, Rueda 1st. Course - Clams and chorizo with tomato and garlic 2nd. Course -Roasted garlic soup with parmesan cheese 3rd. Course - Cassoulet de Toulouse 4th. Course - Chocolate tart with Chantilly cream
Inn at Versailles
Friday, Feb. 6, 2009 6:30 pm Italian (Piedmont ) Wine Tasting and antipasti - RSVP appreciated.
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Two Buck Chuck won’t be if tax hike passes
Check out this LA Times story entitled “Tax hike would put Chuck over its famed Two Bucks”.
Of course, Two Buck Chuck has been more than two bucks in Ohio ever since the first Trader Joe’s opened its doors in the Buckeye state, thanks in no small part to our mandatory minimum markups from producer to wholesaler and from wholesaler to distributor — mandatory markups that many states do not have.
But more importantly: how long will it take for an Ohio politician to propose an increase in alcohol taxes just as California’s Terminator governor has done? Given the state of Ohio’s economy, and the projected state budget shortfall, my hunch is, not long.
And I wonder: if the state did raise the taxes on wine, would those be slapped on before the mandatory markups — which would compound the cost to consumers — or after?
Just a thought.
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The world’s greatest liquor-store sign EVER
Yesterday was all about change. Today is all about back to the grind. But that doesn’t mean we can’t have a little fun, does it?
I think you’ll agree: this may be the best liquor store sign EVER.
I mean, not that I haven’t misspelled a few words in my time, but still …
A tip of the cap to George Sideras for finding this sparkling little gem.
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Boonshoft event will explore the science of wine
Here’s a copy of an email I received from the folks at the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery at 2600 DeWeese Parkway in Dayton, about an event that might be of interest:
AN EVENING OF TASTING, ENJOYING, LISTENING AND LEARNING
Learn about the science of wine at the Boonshoft Museum
The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery will host the second annual The Science of Wine on Saturday, January 24, 7:30 - 11:30 p.m., showcasing 17 wines at seven tasting and learning stations, all paired with plentiful food and live musical performances. Using the unique learning venues available at the Museum, topics such as soil composition, irrigation, aging, weather, and the legalities of labeling will be discussed, all as they relate to the science of wine. Additionally, presentations on stemware, educational lectures, valet parking, full open bars and Museum activities will be part of the all-inclusive $75 admission fee.
The success of the 2008 inaugural event demanded an encore. “As a premier center of learning for residents of all ages in the Miami Valley, the Boonshoft Museum is a natural fit for adults looking for the opportunity to learn more about the science behind wine-making in a fun and casual atmosphere,” said Kim Allen, Chair of the event and Volunteer Associate Board Member.
The Science of Wine will feature seven distinct tasting areas, with an eighth in a special VIP room ($100). An extensive wine selection from the E&J Gallo Vineyards will make available wines chosen from their more than 300 vineyards around the world. Rob VonderBrink of Heidelberg Distributing worked with Gallo to make the perfect wine selections for the event. “Not only are Science of Wine attendees going to sample amazing wines with a nice spectrum of diversity, they will be surprised to learn that most of the wines retail for less than $20, with the majority pricing at around $13 in local wine shops.”
The Wine Gallery and Cafe will be on-site to assist with advance orders of favorites, and will conduct informal stemware presentations to help explain the importance of choosing the correct glassware to maximize the experience of enjoying specific types of wine.
Gallo will present two lectures as part of the ticket price with Marc Ruchti, a Certified Wine Educator, discussing sustainability practices in the wine industry and giving detailed overviews of the wines chosen as “the people’s favorites” throughout the evening.
“The taste and complexity and success of wine is affected at every stage of its development, from the soil the grapes are grown in to the material of the barrel in which the wine ages, to the artistry of the label that helps draw attention to each bottle” notes Diane Farrell, Vice President, External Relations at the Boonshoft Museum. “With the help of industry experts, Science of Wine guests will have the opportunity to explore the impact that each step in the wine-making process has on the end product, and taste plenty of wines paired with an amazing selection of heavy hors d’oeuvres.”
Guests will also enjoy complimentary valet parking, full open bars, performances by the Dayton Opera, live animals, Laser Shows and unforgettable Museum activities, including presentations in Science On a Sphere® the Museum’s newest permanent exhibition, and access to The Inventions of Leonardo da Vinci, one of the Museum’s current featured traveling exhibits.
All proceeds from The Science of Wine will benefit the Boonshoft Museum’s science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programs. Tickets are $75 per person and $100 per person for those who would like a VIP package. Reservations are encouraged.
For more information about The Science of Wine and to reserve your tickets, call 937-275-7431 ext. 136 or 146, or order on-line at www.BoonshoftMuseum.org. Presented by US Bank.
The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is a place where play and learning come together so that visitors of all ages can explore the wonders of the world. The Museum includes a host of places for adventure and two galleries for temporary exhibits. Adventures are enhanced utilizing real specimens and artifacts from the Museum’s collection of 1.4 million items. Formerly known as The Dayton Museum of Natural History, the name was changed in 1999 to the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery in recognition of Oscar Boonshoft, one of the Museum’s most dedicated friends. The Dayton Society of Natural History is the parent organization of the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery and its sister organization, SunWatch Indian Village/Archaeological Park, a reconstructed site and interpretive center of the area’s 12th century Fort Ancient Indians. For more information, visit www.boonshoftmuseum.org or call 937-275-7431.Tweet
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The coolest — no, coldest — wine tastings list in the land
Bundle up and head out to take the chill off with the coolest wine-tastings-and-events list that you’ll find anywhere, and it comes to Uncorked via the heroic efforts of a local listserv that compiles it. Plenty to like here …
“Let It Breathe,” a benefit to support the Dayton Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
Saturday, January 24, 2009 at the Taj Ma Garaj, downtown Dayton RSVP http://dayton.cff.org or Call 937-298-6906 Choose: VIP Wine Connoisseur Reception 6:30 - 7:30 pm and Wine Tasting $100 per person VIP Connoisseur’s Ticket, Tax Deductible $62
Wine Tasting with Gourmet Pairings, Live and Silent Auction, and Deron Bell’s Jazz Entertainment 7:30 - 10:00 pm $55 per person Wine Tasting Ticket, Tax Deductible $20
Jay’s Kitchen Door
Friday, Jan 16, 2009 4-8 pm 2005 Granite Riesling 2005 Luca Pinot Noir 2007 Finca Luzon 2001 Ciacci Brunello 2005 Hess Collection Cabernet
Saturday, Jan 17, 2009 1-6 pm 2003 L’ecole Semillon 2005 Chateau Le Bosco 2005 Antinori Tignanello 2003 Chateau Smith Haut Lafite
RSVP 222-2892 for all Dinners and Luncheon 12:30 pm Saturday, January 31, 2009 Barolo, Barbaresco Luncheon with Michael Brown
Saturday, February 21, 2009 Bordeaux Luncheon
Arrow Far Hills - Kettering
Saturday, Jan 17, 2009 11-4 pm 2007 Joel Gott Sauvignon Blanc N.V. Reymos Espomoso De Moscatel 2006 Domaine De La Cadete Bourgogne 2003 Villa Puccini Reserva Chianti 2004 La Storia Meritage 2005 Lamilla Jumilla R.L. Buller and Son Victoria Tawny Port
Dorothy Lane Market (DLM) Oakwood
Thursday, Jan 15, 2009 5 - 8 pm John Staunton of Merchant du Vin. Merchant du Vin is a leading importer of fine ales including Samuel Smith, Orval, Westmalle, and Lindeman’s.
Friday, Jan 16, 2009, 5:00-8:00 pm Eymann ’06 Riesling Trocken Ferrari Carano ’07 Fume Blanc Dominio de Atuata ‘04 Pikes “The EWP “ ’02 Shiraz Chalone Vineyard ’05 Syrah Northstar ’05 Merlot Brown Bag
Saturday, Jan 17, 2009 2-6 pm Kim Crawford ’08 Sauvignon Blanc Bucci ’06 Classico Pirathon ’05 Shiraz Crognolo ’06 Toscana BV Tapestry ‘03 La Fleur de Bollard ’03 Bordeaux Bonus Bottle
Saturday, January 24, 2009 2- 6 pm David Bantly of Dierberg Estate Vineyards Inspired by the great wines of Burgundy, Dierberg is known for producing beautifully crafted Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs under the Dierberg, Star Lane and Three Saints labels.
DLM Washington Square
Thursday, Jan 15, 2009 5-8 pm 2007 Muga Blanco 2006 Esencia du Monte 2007 Tilia Malbec Syrah 2005 Moulin D’Issan Bordeaux 2000 Fantanabianca Barberesco Encore Wine!
Saturday, Jan 17, 2009 12-5 pm 2006 Domaine Besson Givry Le Haut Colombier 2007 Ken Wright Savoya Vineyard Pinot Noir 2006 Vina Borgia 2005 Gregory Graham Syrah 2006 Red Lion Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Quarterback Red Wine Encore Wine!
Dorothy Lane Springboro
Naiades Verdejo 2006 Waterstone Pinot Noir 2007 Clos du Mont-Olivet Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2006 Il Molino di Grace Chianti Classico RSV 2001 Mystery Wine
Saturday, Jan 17, 2009 12-6 pm Waterstone Chardonnay 2007 Dunham Cellars Trutina 2006 Chimney Rock Cabernet 2005 Oliver Hillaide Chateuneuf-du-Pape 2006 Passpisciaro Rosso 2006
“Let It Breathe” a Benefit to support the Dayton Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Saturday, January 24, 2009 at the Taj Ma Garaj 300 South Perry Street - downtown Dayton VIP Wine Connoisseur Reception 6:30 - 7:30 pm 7:30 - 10:00 pm Wine Tasting with Gourmet Pairings, Live and Silent Auction, and Deron Bell’s Jazz Entertainment $55 per person Wine Tasting Ticket, Tax Deductible $20 $100 per person VIP Connoisseur’s Ticket, Tax Deductible $62 RSVP http://dayton.cff.org or Call 937-298-6906
Cuvee CLOSED January 17 - 24, 2009!
Cuvee Wine Bar and Cellar, 4457 State Route 725 Bellbrook 848-2161 Tuesday - Thursday 11:30 - 7 pm, Friday 11:30 - 8 pm Saturday 11:30 - 7 pm www.cuveewinebar.net
Arrow Centerville 937-433-6778
615 Lyons Rd Centerville Friday, Jan 16, 2009 5-8 pm Beer Tasting Stouts!! Rogue Shakespeare Stout Two Brothers Northwind Imperial Stout Thirsty Dog Siberian Night Russian Imperial Stout Samuel Smith Old Tadcaster Oatmeal Stout Buffalo Bills Blueberry Oatmeal Stout
Saturday, Jan 17, 2009 11 am-5 pm Wine Tasting 2007 Dr. “L” Riesling… 2006 Domaine de la Cadette Bourgogne Vezelay… 2006 Wishing Tree Shiraz… 2003 Villa Puccini Chianti Riserva… 2005 Telegramme Chateauneuf Du Pape… 2005 Chateau Batailley Pauillac… Villa Puccini Santo Vino
Rue Dumaine www.ruedumainerestaurant.com
Tuesday, Jan 20, 2009 5-7 pm DANJEAN—BERTHOUXmGivry 1er Cru La Plante, 2006 COPAIN Cerise Vineyard Pinot Noir Anderson Valley, 2000 KEN WRIGHT CELLARS Pinot Noir Savoya Vineyard, 2007
Trader Joe’s in Kettering.
Tastings Thursday 6:00-8:00 and Sunday 4:00-7:00 Epicuro Vermentino (2007) IGT Lazio, Italy. Epicuro Nero d’Avola (2006) IGT Sicilia, Italy. Epicuro Aglianico (2006) IGT Beneventano, Italy. Epicuro Salice Salentino Riserva (2004) DOC Salice Salentino, Italy.
BOOSALIS BAKING AND CAFE HOSTS WINE TASTING
9486 Springboro Pike, across from Lexis-Nexis
Saturday, Jan 17, 2009 4-7 p.m. Wines, Bread, Hors d’oeuvres 2006 Frei Brothers Chardonnay, Sonoma County. 2006 Lurton “les Fumees Blanches” Sauvignon Blanc, France 2006 Haman Hill Meritage (Cabernet Blend), Monterey County 2006 Falesco “Vitiano” (Cabernet, Merlot, Sangiovese), Umbria Italy A fifth wine will be added but is yet to be determined.
A Taste of Wine 90 S. Main St Miamisburg, OH 937.247-1120 www.atasteofwine.org
This week’s wines: Martin Weyrich’s Moscato Allegro Sevin Daughters White Dunham Cellars Shirley Mays Chardonnay Gabarda IV Gregory Graham Syrah McMannis Family Cabernet Sauvignon
1/23 - Porters & Stouts Beer Tasting $15 1/28 - Women & Wine on Wednesday (WOW) 7pm 1/29 - Port Tasting 7 pm 2/4 - Italian Dinner & Wine Tasting …6:30
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 937-320-9548
Wine Wednesdays 5pm to 8pm in the bar. Jan 21, 2009 4-8 pm
An Italian Dinner featuring Villa Giulia Wines Friday, January 16, 2009 6:30 pm $65 RSVP
Flat Bread Pizza, Antipasto, Toasted Lobster Ravioli with Bechamel Villa Giulia, Barbaresco, Italy, 2003
Seared Duck Breast & Mixed Greens tossed in Honey Orange Vinaigrette in a Parmesan Basket, Villa Giulia, Barolo, Italy, 2000
Potato encrusted Grouper served over Wilted Spinach with Lemon Butter, Villa Giulia, Amarone della Valpolicella, Italy
Drunken Strip Steak with Roasted Peppers & Mushrooms with Toasted Garlic Risotto Cakes & Cabernet Butter, Villa Giulia, Chianti, Italy, 2007
Black & White Canoli, Vanilla & Chocolate Pistachio Cookies with Ice Cream Villa Giulia, Prosecco Moscato, Italy
Bruning’s Wine Cellar
Saturday, Jan 17, 2008 1-4 pm 2006 Stickleback White 2005 Red Mud Chardonnay 2006 Stickleback Red 2004 Red Mud Shiraz 2005 Heartland Cabernet 2006 Quarterback
Winan’s at the Dayton Mall Wine Tasting
Saturday, Jan 17, 2008 4-10 pm Dessert wines Penfolds Club Tawny Port Sandeman Founders Reserve Ruby Port Harveys Amontillado Medium Dry Sherry Harveys Bristol Cream Sherry ShlinkHaus Sweet Red Table Wine
The Culinary Company Cross Pointe Center
Saturday, Jan 17, 2009 12-6 pm Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Syrah and Pinot Noir
The Winds Cafe and Bakery - Yellow Springs
Wine 101 — a two-part class on consecutive Saturdays, January 31, 3 pm and again on Feb. 7 www.windscafe.com
Bella Vino Wine Merchant & Bar , Springboro, OH 45066
Thursday, Jan, 15, 2009 6-8 pm Saturday, Jan 17, 2008 12-4 pm Eye of the Toad Rose Erik’s the Red “Concinnity” Cabernet Sauvignon “Cacophony” Zinfandel “Rod’s Pride” Pinot Noir
Miami Valley Wine and Spirits Tipp City
Friday, Jan 16, 2009 5-9 pm Bells Hopslam Green Flash West Coast IPA Founder’s Double Tree Double IPA Troegg’s Hopback Amber Heavy Seas Imperial ESB Two Brothers Hopped up Red-Rye Avery Ale to the Chief President Pale Ale Rogue Juniper Pale Ale Saturday, Jan 17, 2009 2-8 pm
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, January 16th, 7 pm on The Road to Riesling … … RSVP required Saturday, January 17th 3-6 pm More Riesling Selections
Wednesday, January 21, 2009 7-9 pm Guenther’s Wine Dinner paired with the wines of Raymond Reserve, $40 per person plus tax & gratuity; RSVP required 777-8880
Wine Enrichment Series - February 4, 11, 18 & 25, from 6-8 pm. Cost is $75 per person for the series. Call 513-942-9463 to enroll.
Jungle Jim’s International Market
www.junglejims.com 513-674-6000 to RSVP Jan 16, 2009 7-9 pm Sierra Nevada Beers Jan 17, 2009 1 - 3 pm $25 Napa Valley Value Cabs!
La Petite France www.lapetitefrance.biz
Friday , January 23, 2009 “Splendid Spanish Tasting” featuring a variety of outstanding Spanish wines. $60 per person. 6:30pm. RSVP 513-733-8383 Aperitif - Pampano “Inspiration”, Rueda 1st. Course - Clams and chorizo with tomato and garlic 2nd. Course -Roasted garlic soup with parmesan cheese 3rd. Course - Cassoulet de Toulouse 4th. Course - Chocolate tart with Chantilly cream
Versailles Winery
“Wine and Chocolate Nights”, January 23rd and 24th. RSVP (937) 526-3232
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U.S. may displace Italy as top global wine consumer
We Americans are getting thirstier, it appears, according to this Associated Press story entitled “US could oust Italy as world’s No. 1 wine drinker”.
I suspect we here in the Miami Valley are doing our part …
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The world’s most amazing wine bargain, 24 years later
Am I the only old coot who recalls the Eastern European invasion of wine of the 1980s — wines with names such as Avia, Duna, Trakia and Premiat?
I thought not.
But how many of you cellared a couple of of those Eastern European beauties for a quarter-century just to see what would happen?
I thought not.
Okay, I didn’t really mean to. But therein lies a story — a story with a happy ending, though not quite a Disney-esque happy ending
It was, as usual, prompted by a news story: this piece from the Reuters news agency entitled “Bulgarian winemakers pin hopes on quality” that I read shortly after Christmas.
Bulgarian wine? Heck, I’ve had Bulgarian wine. Many bottles. I was there for Bulgarian wine’s heyday.
That was back in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when a humble bottling called Balkan Crest Cabernet Sauvignon burst upon the Dayton wine scene. Karen Davis, the former Arrow Wine & Spirits employee who nurtured Dayton’s wine-tasting community in its infancy, was an early evangelist for the wine, and converted me in 1989, just as I was launching a wine column. Balkan Crest was cheap — the 1985 vintage sold for $4.99 — and it was very, very good. It tasted like a $20 California cab, easily. It was textbook cabernet, and even seemed to be built to improve with age, so I hung onto a couple (more about THAT in a moment)..
Balkan Crest also had an interesting back story that I discovered while researching a wine column (available in “the jump” below, or click “continue reading”). The wine actually was brought into the U.S. by a company affiliated with Pepsi, the soft-drinks giant. Pepsi and Coke had been competing to bring colas to the then—just-emerging economies of Eastern Europe, but these countries didn’t have much cash to spend on cola syrup. They did, however, have wine. So the cola makers essentially traded their cola for something they could sell plenty of back here in the states: fermented grape juice.
Soon, inexpensive European wines from Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary and Yugoslavia — with names such as Avia, Trakia, Duna and Premiat — were lining the bottom shelves of American wine shops (admit it — you drank some of these).
The Balkan Crest seemed different — better. The 1985 vintage enjoyed a long, prosperous run in Dayton, but then disappeared for a couple of years and was not replaced by successor vintages. Then in 1994, a 1990 vintage Balkan Crest showed up on local wine shelves, this time for a buck less: $3.99. Tasted just as good as the ‘85. It was like welcoming home a long-lost friend.
I ended up cellaring one bottle from each vintage — the ‘85 and ‘90 — with the idea I’d keep them a few years and pop ‘em side by side. Well, you know how that goes. Instead of a few years, I kept them a couple of decades. The opportunity never seemed to present itself — until that Reuters story showed up on the wire.
I called Arrow Wine & Spirits co-owner Mike Frank, who oversees Arrow’s Far Hills Avenue store, to see whether he and some of his employees who remembered the wine might want to, um, share the experience of cracking open a 24-year-old, $4.99 wine, and a 19-year-old, $3.99 wine, with me. Amazingly, they agreed.
My heart sank when I pulled the foil capsule from the ‘85: It was stained red on top, and the bottle’s ullage had dropped to low-neck/high-shoulder. The ‘90 cork, however, was pristine. Might it still be good?
Turned out the ‘85 still had some life to it, and was, in fact, drinking amazingly well. The wine had peaked years earlier, without a doubt, but it had no off-aromas, still had structure to it, and was pleasant to drink. I was surprised, if not stunned. At this age and price range, the wine had no business being that good.
Alas, the ‘90, despite its pristine cork, was shot. The stinky aromas of dill pickle juice dominated the nose, and the palate, shall we say, confirmed the nose.
I quickly dumped the ‘90, but Mike and Arrow’s wine buyer, Dennis Batty, who was around for the Balkan Crest craze (“For a while, we couldn’t keep it stock”), agreed the ‘85 had held up way beyond expectations.
Neither was inclined, however, to refund my $3.99 purchase price on the ‘90 Balkan Crest. “We don’t know how it’s been stored,” Batty said, smiling.
Still, this was quite a fun exercise. Perhaps I’ll scour the bottom shelves of the wine shops and lay down a couple more bottles of a $5 wine to try in 25 years. Perhaps.
If the earlier columns I wrote about Balkan Crest in 1990 and 1994 don’t appear below, click on “continue reading.”
Here’s a piece that appeared in the early days of the “Taste of Wine” column in the Dayton Daily News, in 1990:
A U.S. corporate giant is pulling off a modern-day equivalent of the biblical turning of water into wine.
It all started back in the 1970s when the two cola behemoths, Coke and Pepsi, started competing to see which could first introduce their cola concoctions to the tender tastebuds in the then-communist bloc in Europe.
Pepsi was greeted warmly in countries such as Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary, whose governments and citizens said sure, we’d like to Have the Right One Baby.
There was just one small problem. The countries had no tangible way of paying for the Pepsi. Their currencies couldn’t be converted to good ol’ American dollars.
But about then, somewhere deep in the bowels of the Pepsi kingdom, a little light bulb brightened above someone’s head. We’ll trade our syrup for something of value to the West, then make our profits by reselling it. The old barter system with a new-world twist.
So the Pepsi folks looked around, and found … wine.
Soon, inexpensive European wines with names such as Trakia, Duna and Premiat (Coca-Cola was doing pretty much the same thing in Yugoslavia with Avia) started showing up on wine store shelves, often at shockingly low prices. Pepsi sent some winemaking experts over to help the Eastern Europeans master French grape varieties such as cabernet sauvignon and merlot. And people started drinking the wines. They still are.
“We sell all we get our hands on,” said Stuart Ross, public relations manager for Pepsico’s wines. “The problem is getting them.”
With the political and social turmoil that has accompanied the dismantling of the Iron Curtain, the former way of doing business - through each country’s export ministries - has fallen apart, Ross said. So have the usual methods of transporting the wines from the vineyards to the shipping ports. The roads are in terrible shape, the ports are dens of confusion.
So the folks at Pepsi scrambled. They began dealing with the actual producers of the wine and looking for creative ways to transport it - anything to keep the flow of fermented juice coming.
“It’s a whole new ball game, but I think we’ll be successful,” Ross said.
Wine enthusiasts should hope they are. Some of the Eastern European wines are remarkably good values. A few weeks back, we wrote about a tasting of inexpensive red wines, and enthusiastically recommended a 1985 Cabernet Sauvignon from Bulgaria called Balkan Crest, a beautiful dry red bargain for $5 a bottle. Sure enough, it’s one of the cola-trade-bait wines.
The estate-bottled, oak-aged wine “was basically a discovery of ours,” Ross said, that used to be consumed by government officials and other members of Bulgaria’s upper class.
It’ll be fun to keep our eyes peeled and our palates primed for any other such discoveries that will convince us, at first sip, that we’ve got the Right One. Uh Huh.
Here’s a second column that was published in 1994:
By Mark Fisher DAYTON DAILY NEWS
Two years ago, we wrote about a humble little dry red imported from - of all places - Bulgaria, which tasted pretty darn good for $4.99 a bottle. That wine, the 1985 Balkan Crest Cabernet Sauvignon, stayed around for a while, then disappeared. No subsequent vintages showed up, and the wine was presumed deceased.
Behold! Risen from the ashes, the 1990 Balkan Crest Cabernet has arrived, at a marked-down price of $3.99.
I was suspicious. Why would the wine be cheaper ? There must be something wrong with it …
Nope. This wine is every bit as good as its predecessor, maybe better. For red-wine drinkers, this may be the bargain of the decade. Its taste improves with an hour or so in the glass, suggesting it has enough stuffing to improve with some bottle age. (At least one wine shop was contemplating offering samples of this wine during its regular Saturday wine tastings. Check the “Wine Tastings” listing elsewhere on this page.
The wine’s pricing is a mystery to its local distributor as well, who said, “I wish it cost more money. I’d make more off of it.” (He was laughing when he said it, but not too hard.)
Neither he nor a spokesman for the company that imported the wine could say for sure whether subsequent vintages will make it to the U.S., let alone to the Miami Valley. Something about big corporations, the selling of marketing rights and that sort of thing.
Pity. Guess we’ll have to make do with what we have — so seize the day.
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Bush won’t pardon “Two Buck Chuck” winemaker
Wow, now here’s a story. Check out this AP Politics piece entitled “Winemaker loses bid for pardon, but offers case study in navigating the process” about the colorful and controversial Fred Franzia’s attempts to obtain a presidential pardon in the waning days of the Bush administration.
The attempts failed, despite some rather intense lobbying efforts by the man who is currently best known as the force behind Two Buck Chuck.
Yowzah …
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Taste great wine, help fight cystic fibrosis
This week’s venerable wine-tastings list tells you how to sign up for what certainly sounds like it will be a top-flight wine event for charity. Here is information as sent out by Cuvee Wine Bar & Cellar, one of the event’s sponsors:
You are Cordially Invited (to) “Let it Breathe” Saturday, January 24, 2009
6:30-7:30 pm VIP Wine Connoisseur Reception
7:30-10:00 pmWine Tasting with Gourmet Pairings, Auction and Jazz Entertainment
Taj Ma Garaj 300 South Perry Street in downtown Dayton
Savor wines from around the globe with the perfect gourmet pairings at the eclectic Taj Ma Garaj! Upgrade your evening by joining us from 6:30-7:30pm for our VIP Wine Connoisseur’s Reception and have the opportunity to sip and savor exclusive specialty wines with gourmet complements. The evening will be complete with the lovely sounds of Deron Bell, who has shared the stage with many national recording artists including Boney James, Walter Beasley, Pamela Williams, The Stylistics, Alex Bugnon, Oletta Adams, Peabo Bryson, Pieces of a Dream, Marion Meadows, The Manhattans, and Howard Hewitt.
$55.00 Per Person Wine Tasting Ticket
$100.00 Per Person for VIP Connoisseur’s Ticket
R.S.V.P. … by registering securely online at http://dayton.cff.org no later than Monday, January 19, 2009.
Tax Deductible amount: $20.00 Wine Tasting Ticket, $62.00 VIP Connoisseur’s Ticket
For more information, please contact the CFF Dayton office at (937) 298-6906 or email Barbara Rothstein, Associate Executive Director at brothstein@cff.org.
Click here to find out more about the event from the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation web site and for registration information for the event, Click here.
Now on to this week’s other events … note that there are multiple opportunities listed to taste wine with chocolate, starting tomorrow (1-10-09) at Winans chocolate shop and wine store at the Dayton Mall’s front porch. Versailles Winery up north is having its chocolate-and-wine events Jan. 23-24.
The tastings list comes to Uncorked courtesy of a Dayton-based wine listsserv, bless ‘em. Click on “Continue reading” if the list does not appear immediately below.
“Let It Breathe,” a benefit to support the Dayton Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Saturday, January 24, 2009 at the Taj Ma Garaj, downtown Dayton RSVP http://dayton.cff.org or Call 937-298-6906 Choose: VIP Wine Connoisseur Reception 6:30 - 7:30 pm and Wine Tasting $100 per person VIP Connoisseur’s Ticket, Tax Deductible $62
Wine Tasting with Gourmet Pairings, Live and Silent Auction, and Deron Bell’s Jazz Entertainment 7:30 - 10:00 pm $55 per person Wine Tasting Ticket, Tax Deductible $20
Jay’s Kitchen Door
Friday, Jan 9, 2009 4-8 pm 2005 Grgich Hill Sauvignon Blanc 2004 Shafer Merlot 2005 Robert Modavi Oakville Cabernet 2004 Grgich Hill Cabernet 2003 Chateau Les Arme De Pez
Saturday, Jan 10, 2009 1-6 pm NV Gruet Blanc de Noir 2003 Northstar Merlot 2004 Estancia Meritage 2004 Leoville Barton
RSVP 222-2892 for all Dinners and Luncheon 12:30 pm Saturday, January 31, 2009 Barolo, Barbaresco Luncheon with Michael Brown
Saturday, February 21, 2009 Bordeaux Luncheon
Arrow Far Hills - Kettering
Saturday, Jan 10, 2009 11-4 pm 2007 Crios Rose 2007 Kendall Jackson Chardonnay Vintners Reserve 2006 Chateau La Gaborie Bordeaux 2007 Petraio Nero D’ Avola 2007 Root I Cabernet Sauvignon J.K. Carriere “Antoinette” Pinot Noir
Dorothy Lane Market (DLM) Oakwood
Friday, Jan 9, 2009, 5:00-8:00 pm Kim Crawford ‘08 Sauvignon Blanc Foxglove ‘07 Chardonnay Gerard Raphet ‘06 Bourgogne Twenty Rows “The Grappler” ‘04 Marques de Caceres ’04 Rioja Girard ’03 Artistry
Saturday, Jan 10, 2009 2-6 pm A to Z ’07 Pinot Gris Domaine de la Feuillarde ’05 St. Veran Samuel’s Gorge ’04 Grenache Albini ’04 Merlot Veglio ’99 Barolo Caldwell ’06 Rocket Science
DLM Washington Square
Thursday, Jan 8, 2009 5-8 pm 2007 Chateau la Greffiere Macon la Roche 2006 San Pietro Schiava 2005 Capcanes Costieres del Gravet Monstant 2004 Molino di Sant’Antimo Rosso di Montalcino 2005 Saint Damien Gigondas Encore Wine!
Saturday, Jan 10, 2009 12-5 pm 2006 Handley Dry Creek Chardonnay 2006 Gerard Raphet Bourgogne 2006 Norman “The Monster” Zinfandel 2005 Antano Montefalco Rosso 2004 Lagier Meredith Syrah Encore Wine!
Dorothy Lane Springboro
Friday, Jan 9, 2009 3-7 pm Domaine Serene Cote Sud Chardonnay 2005 SFIDA Primitivo/Negromaro 2005 Vigneti La Telvanella Chianti Classico RSV 2001 Paull Hobbs Becksdoffer Vineyard Caberent 1999 Mystery Wine
Saturday, Jan 10, 2009 12-6 pm Jean Milan NV Blanc de Blanc Special Chateau Villeneuve Samur 2006 St Francis Old Vine Zinfandel 2005 Robert Hall Syrah 2006 Chateau Croix-Mouton Bordeauxx Superieur 2005 Frias Vineyard Cabernet 2001
Cuvee Wine Bar and Cellar, 4457 State Route 725 Bellbrook 848-2161
Note: Cuvee closed January 17 - 24, 2009!
Tuesday - Thursday 11:30 - 7 pm, Friday 11:30 - 8 pm Saturday 11:30 - 7 pm www.cuveewinebar.net Wines for Jan 9 - Jan 15, 2009 King’s Ridge Pinot Gris Domaine du Petit Coteau L’etoile Vouvray TAZ pinot noir Newton Claret Duck Pond Merlot
Beer: TBA Saturday Food: Rillete of Salmon with crostini, Roasted Tenderloin of Beef, Argentine Style
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2007 4:30 -7:00 pm Soup Night Rockport (Shrimp and Lobster ) Chowder
Arrow Centerville 937-433-6778 615 Lyons Rd Centerville Friday, Jan 9, 2009 5-8 pm Beer Tasting Bluegrass Brewing Co.- American Pale Ale… Bluegrass Brewing Co.- Nut Brown Ale… Bluegrass Brewing Co.- Jeffersons Reserve Bourbon Barrel Stout… Heavy Seas Brew Co. Oxford Organic Raspberry Wheat Beer… Brooklyn Brew Co. Monster Ale - Barleywine Style Ale
Saturday, Jan 10, 2009 11 am-5 pm Wine Tasting 2007 Vignetti del Sole Pinot Grigio… 2007 Roncha Bianco del Veneto… 2006 Montellori Chianti… 2007 Joel Gott Zinfandel… 2007 Orin Swift “The Prisoner”… 2005 Cloud View Napa Valley Red
Rue Dumaine www.ruedumainerestaurant.com
Tuesday, Jan 13, 2009 5-7 pm DOURHTE No. 1 Bordeaux, 2006
LOUIS LATOUR Montagny, 2005
DOMAINE LA BASTIDE BLANCHE Bandol, 2006
The Wine Gallery and Cafe, Corner of 3rd and Wayne
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2009 5:30pm - 8 pm 2004 Esca Zinfandel 2004 Esca Syrah 2005 McNabe Petite Sirah 2005 Mandolin Syrah 2004 Austin’s Shiraz
Trader Joe’s in Kettering.
Tastings Thursday 6:00-8:00 and Sunday 4:00-7:00 Cellier du Rhone Rose (2007) AOC Cotes du Rhone, France. Panilonco Chardonnay-Viognier (2005) Colchagua Valley, Chile. Panilonco Merlot-Malbec (2006) Colchagua Valley, Chile. Panilonco Carmenere (2007) Colchagua Valley, Chile.
Savona’s Restaurant and Wine Bar
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2009 5 - 8 pm Mountain View Pinot Noir (Carneros) William Fevre Chablis (France) Adelsheim Rose (Willamette Valley) McManis Petit Syrah (River Junction, CA) 2 other surprise wines.
A Taste of Wine 90 S. Main St Miamisburg, OH 937.247-1120 www.atasteofwine.org
This week’s wines: Biltmore Century White Hook & Ladder Tillerman White Dunham Shirley May’s Chardonnay Rosemount Shiraz Graziano Mendocino Zinfandel 337 Cabernet Sauvignon
1/13 - WineRTainment Class -7pm- Wine & Chocolate. RSVP $15 1/23 - Porters & Stouts Beer Tasting $15 1/29 - Port Tasting 7pm
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 937-320-9548
Wine Wednesdays 5pm to 8pm in the bar. Jan 14, 2009 4-8 pm crane lake Brut, Sparkling Wine, California, NV Flora springs Merlot, Napa Valley, 2005 Pascual toso Malbec, Mendoza Argentina, 2007 Cakebread cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2005
An Italian Dinner featuring Villa Giulia Wines Friday, January 16, 2009 6:30 pm $65 RSVP
Flat Bread Pizza, Antipasto, Toasted Lobster Ravioli with Bechamel Villa Giulia, Barbaresco, Italy, 2003
Seared Duck Breast & Mixed Greens tossed in Honey Orange Vinaigrette in a Parmesan Basket, Villa Giulia, Barolo, Italy, 2000
Potato encrusted Grouper served over Wilted Spinach with Lemon Butter, Villa Giulia, Amarone della Valpolicella, Italy
Drunken Strip Steak with Roasted Peppers & Mushrooms with Toasted Garlic Risotto Cakes & Cabernet Butter, Villa Giulia, Chianti, Italy, 2007
Black & White Canoli, Vanilla & Chocolate Pistachio Cookies with Ice Cream Villa Giulia, Prosecco Moscato, Italy
Bruning’s Wine Cellar
Wednesday Jan 14, 2008 from 5-8pm Saturday, Jan 17, 2008 1-4 pm 2006 Stickleback White 2005 Red Mud Chardonnay 2006 Stickleback Red 2004 Red Mud Shiraz 2005 Heartland Cabernet 2006 Quarterback
Winan’s Wine Tasting at the Dayton Mall
Saturday, Jan 10, 2008 4-10 pm Wine and Chocolate Pairings Napa Cellars - Sauvignon Blanc - 2006 - White chocolate chips or Milk Toffee Blackstone - Pinot Grigio - 2006 - Milk Meltaway or Milk Caramel Rodney Strong - Cabernet Sauvignon - 2005 Dark Chocolate Chips or Dark Meltaway or Milk Bavarian Mint Gnarly Head - Lodi Zinfandel - 2006 - Truffle or Dark Pecan Wurtle
The Culinary Company Cross Pointe Center
Saturday, Jan 10, 2009 12-6 pm Cavit Collection Merlot (taste $2.00) Rosso Piceno Boccadigabbia (taste $3.00) Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon (taste $2.00) Chateau Ste. Michelle Chardonnay
The Winds Cafe and Bakery — Yellow Springs Saturday, January 31, 2009 3 pm RSVP Wine 101
Bella Vino Wine Merchant & Bar, Springboro, OH 45066 Thursday, Jan, 8, 2009 6-8 pm Saturday, Jan 10, 2008 12-4 pm Napa Cellars Cabernet 337 - Cabernet (from Lodi) Trinchero Main Street Vineyard Cabernet Rodney Strong Sonoma Cabernet Bonus Wine: Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon
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, January 9, 2009 from 4:30 to 7:30 pm Saturday, January 10, 2009 from 3-6 pm “Warm Winter Reds” Wine Enrichment Series - February 4, 11, 18 & 25, from 6-8 pm. Cost is $75 per person for the series. Call 513-942-9463 to enroll.
Jungle Jim’s International Market
www.junglejims.com 513-674-6000 to RSVP Jan 10, 2009 1 - 3 pm $20 Chip Emmerich’s Burnet Ridge Winery
Versailles Winery
“Wine and Chocolate Nights”, January 23rd and 24th. RSVP (937) 526-3232
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A motel to remember: Spending the night inside a wine barrel
After a wine-soaked evening, how better to get a restful night’s sleep than to curl up inside a wine barrel? Check out this TreeHugger.com story entitled “Recycled Hotel Rooms from Wine Barrels for the Oenophile”. Great photos.
What will they think of next?
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The resurrection of traditional Barolo
Best wine read on the web today: this winereviewonline.com piece from Ed McCarthy entitled “The Return of Traditional Barolos”.
Ed pulls no punches here — and he names names.
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Debonne’s Debevc joins Ohio Grape Industries Commission
The fine folks at the Ohio Department of Agriculture sent along the following news release that will be of interest to those who follow the Ohio wine industry:
Director Boggs Appoints New Grape Industries Committee Member
Ohio Department of Agriculture Director Robert J. Boggs recently appointed Tony Debevc, of Madison, Ohio, to serve on the Ohio Grape Industries Committee.
“Tony’s extensive knowledge and experience with the grape and wine industry will be a tremendous asset to the committee,” said Boggs. “I am pleased to have him at the table as we discuss and implement ways to improve this growing Ohio industry.”
Debevc is involved in the grape industry with his family business, Debonne Vineyards, which has been in the family since it was founded in 1916. The family established world-class standards in the Lake Erie and Grand River Valley District, and with these standards they have developed one of the most successful wineries in the Midwest. Producing 115 acres of high-quality grapes, Debonne Vineyards is Ohio’s largest estate vineyard.
The committee, chaired by Boggs, consists of the Ohio Department of Agriculture Marketing Division chief, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Liquor Control superintendent, and five members who represent the grape industry, as appointed by the chair.
Established in 1981 by the Ohio General Assembly, the Grape Industries Committee works to create viable, income-producing grape enterprises in the state of Ohio by providing marketing and promotion efforts to generate and expand new markets for grapes and grape products and conducting research to improve the quality of grapes and profitability of grape growing as an agribusiness.
For more information about the Ohio wine industry, visit www.tasteohiowines.com.Tweet
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Just how gullible are wine drinkers, anyway?
I was browsing through my Sunday paper yesterday (1-4-09) when a few sentences in a Parade magazine article entitled “How Subliminal Advertising Works” stopped me in my tracks:
Music also can direct us to certain products. For example, it can determine what kind of wine we pick up from the shelves. In one experiment over a two-week period, British researchers played either accordion-heavy French music or a German brass band over the speakers of the wine section inside a large supermarket. On French music days, 77% of consumers bought French wine, whereas on German music days, the vast majority of consumers picked up a German selection. Intriguingly, only one out of the 44 customers who agreed to answer a few questions at the checkout counter mentioned the music as among the reasons they bought the wine they did.
Are we really that stupid? Or is it just … you know … the British who would fall for such a ploy? I don’t equate oom-pah music with German wine, and when I hear an accordion, hell, I still think of Lawrence Welk, not French wine. But how would an Americanized version of such a study be devised? A Dayton wine shop would sell more Ohio wines if they continuously piped in the Buckeye fight song? “California Dreamin’ ‘” would make wines from that state fly off the shelves?
The research cited in Parade apparently dates to 1999 and appeared in the Journal of Applied Psychology under the headline “The influence of in-store music on wine selections”. I couldn’t find a no-cost, full-text version of the research article on the web, but perhaps I just didn’t look hard enough.
Still, I find these shoppers’ purchasing decisions hard to believe, don’t you? Are we wine consumers that gullible?
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The inaugural wine tastings list of 2009
Are you excited? I’m excited. Here’s the best list of Dayton-area wine tastings, dinners and other special events that exists anywhere in the world, and it comes to Uncorked courtesy of the heroic efforts of the local listserv administrator who compiles it. Happy New Year, indeed! Note, however, that a couple of places that usually host Friday night tastings aren’t doing so tonight.
Click on “continue reading” to view the list in all its glory ….
Jay’s Kitchen Door
Friday, Jan 2, 2009 4-8 pm NV Moet Chandon Nectar Imperial 2007 Ken Wright Albott Cliam Vineyard 2006 Michael David Petite petiti 2005 Don Melchan Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 Chateau Canon La Gaffeliene
Saturday, Jan 3, 2009 1-6 pm 2004 Chateau La Dame Blanche 2007 Ken Wright Nysa Vineyard 2005 Lewelling Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Tenuta Sette Ponti Oreno
RSVP 222-2892 for all Dinners and Luncheon 12:30 pm Saturday, January 31, 2009 Barolo, Barbaresco Luncheon with Michael Brown
Saturday, February 21, 2009 Bordeaux Luncheon
Arrow Far Hills - Kettering
Saturday, Jan 3, 2009 11-4 pm 2006 Terlan Alto Aldige Terlaner 2006 Sbragia Gamble Ranch Chardonnay 2006 Gallo Family Sonoma Reserve Pinot Noir 2006 Occhioverde Merlot 2006 K Vintners “The Boy” Grenache 2006 Vega Sindoa Tempranillo Merlot
Dorothy Lane Market (DLM) Oakwood
Friday, Jan 2, 2009, 5:00-8:00 pm There will be no tasting on Friday, January 2
Saturday, Jan 3, 2009 2-6 pm Crocker Starr ’06 Sauvignon Blanc Le Manoir ’07 Sancerre Masi Campofiorin ’05 Ripasso Fireblock ’03 Old Vine Grenache Il Bosco ’03 Syrah Esprit de Parenchere ’05 Bordeaux
DLM Washington Square
Thursday, Jan 1, 2009 5-8 pm There will be no tasting
Saturday, Jan 3, 2009 12-5 pm 2006 Kerpen Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese 2006 Louis Latour Grand Ardeche Chardonnay 2005 Fess Parker Ashley’s Vineyard Pinot Noir 2005 Backsberg Pumphouse Shiraz 2006 Jacuzzi Cabernet Sauvignon Encore Wine!
Dorothy Lane Springboro
Friday, Jan 2, 2009 3-7 pm There will be no tasting
Saturday, Jan 3, 2009 12-6 pm Kerpen Bernkasteler Riesling Spatlese 2006 Givry Le Haut Colombier Blanc 2006 Domaine Mugneret-Gibourg Voane-Romanee 2006 Plungerhead Dry Creek Zinfandel 2006 Staglin Family Salus Cabernet 2003 Bonus Wine
Cuvee Wine Bar and Cellar, 4457 State Route 725 Bellbrook 848-2161
Tuesday - Thursday 11:30 - 7 pm, Friday 11:30 - 8 pm Saturday 11:30 - 7 pm www.cuveewinebar.net Wines for Jan 2 - Jan , 2009 Business as usual Friday and Saturday! Friday from 11:30 to 8pm. Saturday from 11:30 to 7pm. Beer: TBA Saturday Food: TBA
Arrow Centerville 937-433-6778
615 Lyons Rd Centerville Friday, Jan 2, 2009 5-8 pm Beer Tasting Lagunitas Brewing Co. Brown Shugga… Lagunitas Brewing Co. IPA… Lagunitas Brewing Co. Pils… Lagunitas Brewing Co. Censored Copper Ale… Lagunitas Brewing Co. Ruben and the Jets Commemorative Ale
Saturday, Jan 3, 2009 11 am-5 pm Wine Tasting 2006 Monterey Vineyards Chardonnay… 2007 Cono Sur Carmenere… 2006 Rocca delle Macie Sasyr… 2005 Perrin & Fils Vinsobre Cotes du Rhone Villages… 2006 Chatteau de Candale St. Emilion… 2005 Archetype Shiraz
Rue Dumaine www.ruedumainerestaurant.com
Tuesday, Jan 6, 2009 5-7 pm Tasting great wines from the NEW YEARS EVE pairings
Trader Joe’s in Kettering
Tastings Thursday 6:00-8:00 and Sunday 4:00-7:00 No Thursday tasting - Happy New Year! Trimbach Riesling (2005) AOC Alsace, France. Purple Moon Chardonnay (2007) California. Purple Moon Merlot (2006) California. Purple Moon Shiraz (2006) California
The Winds Cafe and Bakery — Yellow Springs Saturday, January 31, 2009 3 pm RSVP Wine 101
Bella Vino Wine Merchant & Bar, Springboro, OH 45066 Thursday, Jan, 1, 2009 6-8 pm No tasting
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, January 2, 2009 4:30-7:30 pm - Savory Red Sippers Saturday, January, 3, 2009 3-6 pm - Savory Red Sippers A new tasting format will include wine that may be tasted individually or by the flight (usually 5-6 wines). They will still have the “formal” tastings that are meant as a taste and teach experience.
Jungle Jim’s International Market
www.junglejims.com 513-674-6000 to RSVP Tastings to begin again on January 10, 2009
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Here’s my NYEve wine — what was yours?
Here’s the bottle of wine I chose to ring in the new year with: the 1998 Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf-du-Pape Les Origines.
The wine came within about four hours of making it into its second decade of life before I pulled the plug on it. But it was fully mature and ready to drink, with nicely evolved aromas of cedar and spices. It had lightened up a bit with age, showing the color and weight that suggested Burgundy or old Nebbiolo. But the spicy, complex flavors were all Chateauneuf.
What did YOU enjoy on New Year’s Eve — or in the early hours of 2009?
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