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Home > Blogs > Uncorked > Archives > 2007 > August
August 2007
‘Big Business is screwing the wine consumer’
Yes, we have the Labor Day weekend tastings list today (just click “continue reading” below), but we also have much more, in the form of a detailed comment from Uncorked reader Tony to yesterday’s entry about portions of Indiana’s wine shipping laws being ruled unconstitutional by a federal judge.
Tony begins his comment with, “Big Business is screwing the consumer!” and goes on to ask what on its face appears to be a very simple question: “Why can’t we buy any wine from any place in the world?”
He says he’d welcome suggestions on how to start a movement to change Ohio’s wine laws. “I still believe that wine stores, restaurants and consumers alike will benefit,” Tony says.
What do you think? And what about Tony’s fundamental question of why there needs to be any laws that restrict us from buying wine from any place, anywhere? As long as we can prove we’re 21, that is.
(Click on “continue reading” to view the Labor Day weekend wine-tastings list, which comes to Uncorked courtesy of a Dayton-based wine listserv…)
Jays Kitchen Door Friday, August 31, 2007 4-8 pm 2005 Alpha Domus Viognier 2004 Westwind Jesse’s Grove Zinfandel 2003 Dare Cabernet Franc 2001 Donatella Cinelli Colombini Brunello 2004 Chateau Batailley Pauillac
Saturday, September 1, 2007 1-6 pm NV Veuve Clicquot Rose 2003 Vieux Telegraphe 2003 Rombauer Cabernet 2003 Chateau La Grange
Burgundy Dinner, Thursday, September 20, 2007 7:00 pm
Lobsterfest Saturday, September 22, 2007 $65 Steamed Mussels, Shrimp and Lobster in a Garlic-White Wine Broth, Lobster Apple Slaw, While Steamed Maine Lobster with Buttered Potatoes, Green Beans and Sweet Corn Pudding, Berry Basket
Arrow - Kettering Saturday, September 1, 2007 11-5 pm 2005 pierre andre bourgone rouge reserve, vieilles vignes 2004 columbia crest cabernet sauvignon, grand estates 2004 bon anno sangiovese, napa 2003 ramey red wine, diamond mountain district, napa 2006 vega sindoa chardonnay, spain 2005 jaffurs viognier, santa barbara
Dorothy Lane Market (DLM) Oakwood Friday, August 31, 2007 5-8pm Pegasus Bay Riesling 2005 Pepper Tree Chardonnay 2004 Whitehaven Pinot Noir 2004 Helix Merlot 2004 Croix de Beaucaillou St Julien 2004 Brown Bag
Saturday, September 1, 2007 1-6 pm Pegasus Bay Sauvignon/Semillon 2006 Desert Wind Viognier 2006 Domaine Bouchard Aloxe-Corton 2005 Sassetti Rosso Montalcino 2005 Easterlina Zinfandel 2003 Sarria Reserva Especiale 2001 Bonus Bottles!
Beers: Stiegl Pils, New Holland Dragon’s Milk
DLM Washington Square Thursday, August 30, 2007 5-8 pm 2005 Pegasus Bay Riesling (New Zealand) 2006 Danie de Wet “Limestone Hill” Chardonnay (South Africa) 2004 Pegasus Bay Pinot Noir (New Zealand) 2004 Shooting Star Zinfandel (California) 2003 Capitoso Rioja (Spain) Mystery Wine!
Saturday, September 1, 2007 12-5 pm “What’s Going on in Washington” Fifi is featuring the Longshadow’s project from Washington. Allen Shoup, a pioneer of Washington wines and the former CEO of Chateau Ste. Michelle, put together renowned winemakers to make wines for Chateau Ste. Michelle. 2005 Poet’s Leap Riesling made with Armin Diel of Schlossgut Diel 2004 Pedestal Merlot made with Michel Rolland, Pomerol vintner 2004 Sequel Syrah made with John Duva, Penfold’s Grange 2005 Desert Wind Viognier 2004 Chateau Ste. Michelle Orphelin Mystery Wine!
Dorothy Lane Springboro Friday, August 31, 2007 3-7pm 05 Macon-Lugny Chardonnay 06 Coldsteam Hills Pinot Noir 04 Hare’s Chase 00 Richard Perry Cabernet
Saturday, September 1, 2007 12-5 pm 05 Everett Ridge Sauvignon Blanc 06 Simi Chardonnay 05 Plump Jack Merlot 03 WhiteHall Lane Cabernet
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 Tasting from Friday, August 31 -Thursday, September 6, 2007 Fattoria Laila Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Red Dot Penny’s Hill Chardonnay/Viognier Waterford Sauvignon Blanc Senorio de Sarria Vinedo no. 7 Graciano Morgan Cotes du Crows Passopisciaro Rosso Sicilia Beer: Kronenbourg 1664 Food: TBA
Arrow Centerville 615 Lyons Rd Centerville Saturday, September 1, 2007 11 am-5 pm 937-433-6778 Gazela Vinho Verde… 2005 Finca Flichman Barrancas… 2005 Finca Flichman Tupangato… 2003 Claudius Merlot… 2005 Lyeth Zinfandel
Trader Joe’s, Town & Country at Stroop and Far Hills Tasting Thursday 6:00-8:00, Sunday 4:00-7:00. Novella Chardonnay (NV) AVA Paso Robles, California. Black Mountain Pinot Noir (2006) California. Thunder Moon Petite Sirah (2003) California. And beer too: Trader Joe’s Bohemian Lager
The Wine Gallery and Cafe, Corner of 3rd and Wayne Saturday, September 1, 2007 2 - 9 pm 2005 White Rock Chardonnay 2005 Ventana Pinot Noir 2004 St Supery Cabernet Sauvignon
Wednesday, September 5, 2007, 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM Ventisquera Gran Reserve Sauvignon Blanc Ventisquera Gran Reserve Chardonnay Ventisquera Gran Reserve Merlot Ventisquera Gran Reserve Carmenere Ventisquera Gran Reserve Sauvignon Cabernet
MARKET WINE IMPORTS (2nd Street Market) Saturday September 1, 2007 10AM to 1:30PM McManis Sauvignon Blanc McManis Chardonnay
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 937-320-9548 Wine Wednesdays 5pm to 7pm in the bar. Wednesday, September 5, 2007 WATTLE CREEK Sauvignon Blanc Mendocino County, 2004 CAMBRIA Pinot Noir Santa Maria Valley Julia’s Vineyard, 2005 O’BRIEN FAMILY Merlot Napa Valley, 2003 O’BRIEN FAMILY Seduction Napa Valley, 2004
O’BRIEN FAMILY WINE DINNER WITH BART O’BRIEN SEPTEMBER 5, 2007 7:00PM PESTO, MARGHERITA, AND SOUTHWESTERN FLATBREADS SCHRAMSBERG, Mirabelle Rose Napa Valley NV
MESCLUM GREENS MIXED WITH AN APPLE WALNUT-CITRUS VINAIGRETTE ACCENTED WITH A PARMESAN CHARD O’BRIEN FAMILY, Chardonnay Napa Valley, 2005
BREAST OF DUCKLING WITH CHERRY COMPOTE OVER A CREAMY HERB RISOTTO O’BRIEN FAMILY, Merlot Napa Valley, 2003
CARMELIZED LOIN OF VENISON WITH A BARLEY MUSHROOM PILAF O’BRIEN FAMILY, Seduction Napa Valley, 2004
CHOCOLATE BREAD PUDDING WITH A BLUEBERRY CUSTARD SAUCE MEEKER, Zinfandel Fro Zin Mendocino County, 2004
Pacchia Wine Tasting, 410 East Fifth Street Thursday, September 5, 2007 6-8 pm The wines of M. Chapoutier, Rhone icon and biodynamic pioneer
Therapy Cafe, 452 E. Third St., Therapy-cafe.com Sunday,September 2nd, from 4-8 pm Complimentary cheese, fruit, tapas and deserts will be provided. Moreson Cuvee Cape Brut NV Eroica Rielsing Zolo Torrontes Cave de’Tain Crozes Hermitage Woop Woop Shiraz Ponzi Pinot Noir Abadia Retuerta selection especial Terrunyo Carmenere The Winds Wine Cellar Yellow Springs, OH September 14, 2007 7:00 pm 2005 Chateauneuf-du-Pape Tasting
October 5, 2007 7:00 pm Burgundy Tasting with David Schildknecht
Cork-N-Vine, Troy Tuesday, September 4th, from 6 until 9 meet winemaker Bart O’Brien from O’Brien Estate and taste his wines September 6th Anne Markovich-Girard from Robert Kacher Selections featuring some of the Kacher wines.
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, August 31, Drop-in 5-8 pm “Stellar 90 Pointers”
Saturday, September 1st, 3-6 pm, Casual Tasting of More High Scoring Wines
Harmony Hill Vineyards is producing a new dessert wine for release by their Thanksgiving Weekend Barrel Sampling Event. They are delegating the naming of this new release to the faithful supporters of Harmony Hill Vineyards. So submit your ideas to Harmonyhillfarm@aol.com
La Petite France 3177 Glendate-Milford Road Cincinnati, Ohio www.lapetitefrance.biz Call 513-733-8383
Kinkead Ridge Winery 904 Hamburg Street Ripley OH 45167 937-392-6077 www.KinkeadRidge.com Saturday, September 1 and Monday, September 3, 10 am -6 pm is the Kinkead Ridge red wines release and vineyard tours! Last Day for the public is September 8, 2007 11 - 5 Reopening for a special barrel tasting the Saturday after Thanksgiving!
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Parts of Indiana wine-shipping law declared unconstitutional
Portions of Indiana’s new wine-shipping laws have been declared unconstitutional, according to this story from theindychannel.com.
I wonder whether Ohio’s could be next … ?
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Kinkead Ridge: These are NOT your grandma’s Ohio wines
Ron Barrett and Nancy Bentley of Kinkead Ridge winery (photo courtesy of Kinkead Ridge)
RIPLEY, Oh. — Nancy Bentley just laughs and rolls her eyes when a visitor suggests her Kinkead Ridge winery partner Ron Barrett is more the “glass-half-empty” half of their relationship.
“With him, the glass wouldn’t even be half-empty. It would be three-quarters empty,” Bentley says.
It’s true.
I’ve seen Ron and Nancy in action before, at wine festivals and other venues, where Bentley - the sunny, marketing-savvy member of this duo - will pour a sample of a newly released Kinkead Ridge wine and begin to extol its virtues, only to have Ron interrupt and begin to explain everything that’s wrong with the wine, everything that was wrong with the growing season that produced it, the vines, the diseases, etc. Then, more often than not, the wine turns out to be delicious, and occasionally spectacular — especially given that it was grown and produced on a hilltop in southern Ohio.
So when Ron Barrett actually begins to wax eloquent about the quality of his 2005 red wines — which are set for release this weekend (Labor Day weekend) at the winery in Ripley - I nearly fall out of my chair in shock. Who are you really, and what did the aliens do with the real Ron Barrett?
Turns out it’s really Ron - and turns out he’s right about his 2005s. Earlier this month, I got a sneak peak at ’05 Cabernet Sauvignon ($17.95), Cabernet Franc ($17.95) and Syrah ($19.95). All are excellent - not just excellent “for an Ohio wine,” but excellent, period.
Although I haven’t tasted through every Ohio winery’s portfolio, for my money, no one in the Buckeye state is producing as consistently high-quality red wines across the board as Ron Barrett is from his tiny hilltop north of Ripley, Ohio. These wines - particularly the cab franc and the cabernet sauvignon - are world-class wines, well-priced, and they show what Ohio-grown vinifera grapes can do if they’re planted at the right site, and are produced and bottled with care. (The ’04 reds, some of which are still on local wine retailers’ shelves, are also impressive, as are the 2006 whites, released earlier this year.)
Now mind you, Barrett - a former engineer who grew pinot noir in Oregon before returning to his native Ohio — can still talk about things that aren’t going so well. He’s disappointed more of his neighbors along the Ohio River east of Cincinnati haven’t followed his lead and planted high-quality European grape varietals in their vineyards. The folks in charge of Ohio agricultural and wine marketing and support groups focus attention on the northeast corner of the state rather than nurturing areas such as the Ohio River Valley, he says. And the last two vintages have brought their challenges.
Most of his 2006 reds didn’t match the quality of his 2005s, courtesy of a cool, wet autumn (“My 2006 syrah tastes like it was grown in the Finger Lakes,” Barrett says. Ahh, there’s the Ron I recognize.).
His 2007 crop, still on the vine, was hit hard by the “Easter Weekend Massacre,” the deep freeze that followed close on the heels of some unseasonably warm temperatures and wreaked havoc with the vines and blooms of some grape varietals. There will be very little white wine bottled in 2007, he says, and some of his red varietals, including cab franc, also were adversely affected.
But then Barrett offers an uncharacteristic glimmer of hope. His 2007 cabernet sauvignon grapes appear to be the best he has ever grown, he says. He can’t wait to get them into the winery to see what he can do with them.
Suddenly, the glass seems half full. Maybe Nancy was wrong, after all.
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
There’s still hope for the 2007 crop at Kinkead Ridge, at least from some vines. (Photo by Mark Fisher)Tweet
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Wine fraud: Check your bottles carefully …
Police have broken up an international counterfeit wine racket involving top Italian wines, according to this story from Decanter.com.
The bust occurred in Germany, but there’s no telling whether all of the fake wines were recovered, or whether some slipped through and are bouncing around the marketplace somewhere.
I know this scares the bejeezus out of wine collectors who purchase the world’s finest wines. And for good reason: Who wants to be suckered into spending large sums of money on prestige labels that turn out to be fake? And the worst part, given the advances in printing technology: how can anyone be sure — I mean, really sure — that the prestige bottles you’re buying are genuine?
I hope the German and Italian authorities throw the book at these 10 scumbags, assuming they’re convicted. What in your opinion would be a suitable punishment for these thieves?
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Hottest wine tastings in town
With the high temperature forecast for 97 degrees today, I think it’s safe to say Dayton has some of the hottest wine tastings in the country. Maybe some of the shops will throw in a nice, refreshing white or rose as a last-minute addition. Is it just me, or do these late-August lineups seem a little out of touch with the season with the emphasis on heavy red wines? I know, I know: no whining on the yacht. And believe me, once you click on “continue reading” and gaze at the tastings list, you’ll know we do, indeed, live on a yacht here in the Miami Wine Valley. Don’t forget, for tastings and events in the greater Cincinnati area, check out My Wine Education. Cheers!
Mark Fisher
SeaFest Seafood Festival - Fraze Pavilion Sunday, August 26 - 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Ale Fest Dayton August 25, 2007 Carillon Park
Jay’s Kitchen Door
Friday, August 24, 2007 4-8 pm 2005 J.L. Chave Croze Hermitage (White) 2003 Dardi Le Rose Bussia Barolo 2004 Les Cailloux Chateauneuf du Pape 2000 Chateau La Croix Pomerol 2004 St Clement Oroppas
Saturday, August 25, 2007 1-6 pm 2005 Ferry La Combe Rose 2005 Rosenblum Petit Sirah 2001 Pinino Brunello 2003 Lewelling Cabernet
Lobsterfest Saturday, September 22, 2007 $65 Steamed Mussels, Shrimp and Lobster in a Garlic-White Wine Broth, Lobster Apple Slaw, While Steamed Maine Lobster with Buttered Potatoes, Green Beans and Sweet Corn Pudding, Berry Basket
Thursday, September 20, 2007 High End Burgundy Dinner $65 Wines and Menu TBA
Arrow - Kettering (Both Arrow Wines have a new website! arrowwineandspirits.com)
Saturday, August 25, 2007 11-5 pm 2006 domaine madeloc collioure 2006 arca nova vinho verde 2006 aquinas pinot noir nv rene barbier red 2004 the colonial estate shiraz 2003 cloudview
Dorothy Lane Market (DLM) Oakwood
Friday, August 24, 2007 5-8pm Fattori Soave 2006 Shooting Star Sauvignon Blanc 2005 Steele Pinot Noir 2005 Artesa Merlot 2004 Hedges Red Mountain 2003 Brown Bag
Saturday, August 25, 2007 1-6 pm Duval LeRoy Brut 1998 Chasson Vive Clesse 2004 Coldstream Hills Pinot Noir 2006 Domaine Catherine Le Goeuil Cotes-du-Rhone 2005 Helix Pomata 2003 Bogle The Phatom 2004 Bonus Bottles!
Beers: Plank Hefeweizen, Caracole Nostrodamus
DLM Washington Square
Thursday, August 23, 2007 5-8 pm 2004 Mastroberardino Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio (Italy) 2005 Robert Klingenfus Pinot Noir (Alsace, France) 2005 Merum Monastrell (Spain) 2004 Skouras Megas Oenos (Greece) 2002 Summit Lake “Emily Kestrel” Cabernet Sauvignon (California) Mystery Wine!
Saturday, August 25, 2007 12-5 pm “Don’s Favorites” NV Jean Vesselle Oeil de Pedrix (France) NV De Faveri Rose Prosecco (Italy) 2005 Hendry Pinot Noir (California) 2002 Summit Lake Zinfandel (California) 2004 The Colonial Estate Merlot (Australia) 2004 The Colonial Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (Australia) Mystery Wine!
Dorothy Lane Springboro
Friday, August 24, 2007 3-7pm 05 De La Guerra Chardonnay 01 Silver Sangiovese NV Tandem Syrah 02 Culler Syrah
Saturday, August 25, 2007 12-5 pm 06 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc 05 Bon Anno Sauvignon Blanc 06 Solo Rosa Rose 03 Rodney Strong Alex. Valley Cabernet
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 Tasting from Friday, August 24 -Thursday, August 30, 2007 Four Legged White Riesling by Dunham Cellars O’Reilly’s 2005 Chardonnay Yard Dog White O’Reilly’s Pinot Noir Rabid Red Barossa Jack 2005 Shiraz Yard Dog Red Curious Beagle Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Beer: Kronenberg 1664 Food: Dog Treats and H2O
Monday, August 27: Winemaker Tasting-Steve Felten of Norman Vineyards, Central Coast, Wines to be tasted: California Vino Rosado, (a dry rose) Buzzard Zin, Buzzard Tree Meritage, Conquest Cabernet, Crescendo, (Bordeaux Blend) Petite Sirah, Mephistopheles, Monster Zin, Vocation (Syrah, Mourvedre, Grenache, Petite Sirah blend) and Zinfandel Port.
Saturday, August 26 Dog Days of Summer Tasting at Cuvee to benefit SICSA. Bring your dog! Cuvee will take collections for SICSA: Visit www.sicsa.org/wish-list.htm for items they need:
Arrow Centerville
615 Lyons Rd Centerville Saturday, August 25, 2007 11 am-5pm 937-433-6778 2005 Everette Ridge Sauvignon Blanc… 2006 Pierano Viognier… 2003 Esterlina Zinfandel… 2005 McKenzie Cabernet Sauvignon… 2004 Delectus Argentum
Trader Joe’s, Town & Country at Stroop and Far Hills
Tasting Thursday 6:00-8:00, Sunday 4:00-7:00. Gaetano d’Acquino Pinot Grigio (2006) IGT Delle Venezie, Italy Contadino Pinot Grigio Vivace (2006) IGT Delle Venezie, Italy Tenimente Conti Nero (2005) DOC Ripasso Valpolicella Classico, Italy
THE WINE GALLERY
Saturday August 25, 2007, MARKET WINE IMPORTS (2nd Street Market)
Wednesday, August 29, 2007, 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 937-320-9548
Wine Wednesdays 5pm to 7pm in the bar. Wednesday, August 29, 2007 5-7 ZD Chardonnay California, 2005 ORIN SWIFT The Prisoner Napa Valley, 2005 ROBERT HALL Merlot Paso Robles, 2005 B.R. COHN Cabernet Sauvignon North County Silver Label, 2005
FLEMINGS’S SPANISH WINE DINNER AUGUST 31, 2007 6:30PM WITH SPEAKER CLAY DAUM WITH CODORNIU OF SPAIN $85 PER PERSON AN ARTISINAL DISPLAY OF THREE SPANISH CHEESES - CODORNIU, Brut Cava Raventos Reserva NV ROMAINE BASKET TOPPED WITH A LOBSTER GAZPACHO - RAIMAT, Chardonnay Costers del Segre Spain, 2005 FIRE ROASTED PHEASANT ACCOMPANIED BY A FIG & CHERRY REDUCTION SERVED WITH A BLUE CORNMEAL MASA TOWER - SCALA DEI, Priorat Cartoixa, 2002 VEAL AND CHORIZO PAELLA WITH A TRI-COLOR ORZO - SCALA DEI, Priorat Negre, 2005 POACHED PEAR AND FRIUT CONFIT WITH CHOCOLATE ALMOND GANACHE - CODORNIU, Brut Pinot Noir Cava NV
Pacchia Wine Tasting, 410 East Fifth Street
Thursday, August 23, 2007 6-8 pm Californian Pinot Noir Starting with Mendocino County, Sketchbook Winery and Parducci Winery. Moving south to Sonoma, Macmurry Ranch. The long growing season, ripe fruit producing region of Carneros brings Jacuzzi Winery. Finally, AVA of Russian River Valley brings the Walter Hansel Estate grown Pinot.
5th Street Wine & Deli, 416 E. Fifth St. in Dayton’s Oregon Historic District Saturday, August 25, 2007, 2-6 pm
Therapy Cafe, 452 E. Third St.
Sunday August 26th 4-8 PM Shiraz of the world Music by Elegance Entertainment: String quartet (viola, violin and Cello) Art presented by Landsiedel Gallery Complimentary appetizers by the Taste of Mediterranean 2003 Edmunds St John Syrah Wylie-Fenaughty Vineyard — [Caifornia] 2004 Cave d’Tupain Crozes-Hermitage [ Rhone Valley , France ] 2006 Torbreck Woodcutter Shiraz [ Australia ] 2004 Hacienda el Espino 1707 Syrah [ Spain ] 2003 Gerovassilou Syrah [ Macedonia ] 2005 Castello Sonnino Leone Rosso [ Italy ] 2005 Syncline Columbia Valley Syrah [ Washington State , USA ] Rust En Vrede Shiraz [ South Africa ] Guigal St Joseph Rouge [ Rhone Valley , France ] Paringa Sparkling Shiraz [Australian sparkling wine]
The Winds Wine Cellar Yellow Springs, OH
September 14, 2007 7:00 pm 2005 Chateauneuf-du-Pape Tasting
October 5, 2007 7:00 pm Burgundy Tasting with David Schildknecht
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, August 31th, 7 pm J. Lohr Vineyards. Amber Lee of J. Lohr Vineyards will present six wines, reservations requested.
Saturday, September 1th, 3-6 PM ~ Wines of California’s Central Coast.
Harmony Hill Vineyards is producing a new dessert wine for release by their Thanksgiving Weekend Barrel Sampling Event. They are delegating the naming of this new release to the faithful supporters of Harmony Hill Vineyards. So submit your ideas to Harmonyhillfarm@aol.com
La Petite France 3177 Glendate-Milford Road Cincinnati, Ohio www.lapetitefrance.biz Call 513-733-8383
Kinkead Ridge Winery
904 Hamburg Street Ripley OH 45167 937-392-6077 www.KinkeadRidge.com SUMMER HOURS Saturday from Memorial Day through mid-September, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Exploring the link between wine and sex
Since it’s hot and steamy outside, may as well make it hot and steamy on the ol’ wine blog too, no?
A New York company is exploring — well, perhaps “exploiting” is a better word — the link between wine and whoopee, by organizing wine tastings at an “adult toy store” that draw several dozen “libidinous oenophiles,” according to this morning’s Decanter.com story.
In addition to those tastings, the company — Babeland, which is owned exclusively by women —runs other wine events, the story says, including:
‘bachelorette’ wine tasting parties, and a ladies-only ‘kinky wine tasting party,’ where participants ‘learn how to perform a striptease, lap dance, and walk with a new sexy strut like the pros from the pros,’ while enjoying a selection of red, white and sparkling wines.
So, um, is the heartland ready for this trend? Will it fly in DeKalb, Decatur and Dayton? Where would you suggest such a party be held here in southwest Ohio? Any particular themes you can think of?
‘Cuz I’m just like, wondering …
And by the way, I Googled the term “libidinous oenophiles,” along with the alternative spelling of “libidinous enophiles,” and this story marks the first time in cyber-history that those too words have been used together. Just in case you were wondering.
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Cincy raises stakes — and the bill — for its version of Restaurant Week
Okay, let’s just have a little fun this morning at the expense of our high-falutin’ neighbors to the south. I mean, it’s almost too easy.
This press release from a group of independent restaurants invites diners to “Eat Lots and Spend Little” during Cincy’s Restaurant Week, Sept. 4-8. But maybe that slogan should be, “Eat Lots and Spend a Little More Than Daytonians Did,” since the price of the Queen City’s Restaurant Week is $25.07 rather than the $20.07 that Dayton-area restaurants offered.
Apparently, Cincy reached the $25 number because 25 restaurants or so are participating. Gee, following that line of logic, Dayton’s price should have been, what, $48.07??
Of course, at least one other city charges $25.07 for its Restaurant Week: New York City. That’s for lunches. Dinners are $35.07.
So, I guess dining in one of these Cincy eateries just feels more like dining in the Big Apple than it does Dayton … right?
Memo to Dayton-area restaurateurs: I know it’s difficult if not impossible to make a profit from a $20.07 three-course meal, but YOU know that’s not the point. The point is generating some money for worthy charities, some buzz for your restaurants, some enthusiasm for the idea of dining out in a traditionally slow week. And to audition for an audience that probably would not have come to your establishment if it weren’t for those bargain prices.
I’ll take Restaurant Week Dayton’s way, thankyouverymuch.
You?
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Toad Hollow founder touched the lives of many in Miami Valley
When I asked you whether it was Toad Hollow’s Todd Williams who had visited Dayton, little did I know how many times he had come here — and in particular, how many lives he had touched.
Wow.
I e-mailed along your comments to the folks at Toad Hollow, who have put up a memorial to Mr. Williams on their web site. And I received a reply from the winery’s Erik Thorson. It read:
Thank you so much for mentioning Todd in your article and for opening it up to comments. It was fun to read them. Todd is irreplaceable but his memories will sustain us.
So thank you to all who shared their memories. The winery’s web site has created a tribute page for those who would like to share their stories, and the winery’s site also has contributions information.
I sure wish now, in retrospect, that I had attended these luncheons and other events that featured “Dr. Toad.”
It’s clear I missed out on something — someone — special.
Mark Fisher
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Summer doldrums? Not at THIS happenin’ wine scene …
Our local wine shops, restaurants and wineries are so focused on their calling of providing us with wine pleasure that they never take a summer vacation. The evidence is right here, right now, right in front of you, and all you have to do is click on “continue reading” to view the chic and sophisticated Uncorked tastings list, which comes to us courtesy of a Dayton-based wine listserv. Shouldn’t we do our part and reward their dedication to us? Yes, we should. Yes, we will. For tastings and events in the greater Cincinnati area, check out My Wine Education.
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
Jay’s Kitchen Door Friday, August 17, 2007 4-8 pm 2005 Nichol and Nichol Truchard Chardonnay 2005 Sassetti Pertimali Rosso 2002 Arlaud Morey St. Denis “Les Mi Illandes” 2001 Collosorbo Brunello 2004 Chateau Smith Haut Lafite
Saturday, August 18, 2007 1-6 pm 2005 Kistler Chardonnay 2005 Charles Krug Pinot Noir 2003 Chateau Beau Site 2001 Collosorbo Reserve Brunello
Lobsterfest Saturday, September 22, 2007 $65 Steamed Mussels, Shrimp and Lobster in a Garlic-White Wine Broth, Lobster Apple Slaw, While Steamed Maine Lobster with Buttered Potatoes, Green Beans and Sweet Corn Pudding, Berry Basket
Arrow Wine & Spirits — Kettering
Both Arrow Wines have a new website! arrowwineandspirits.com
Saturday, August 18, 2007 11-5 pm nv rene barbier mediterranean white 2006 burgans albarino 2002 kunde merlot 2005 three saints pinot noir 2002 summit lake zinfandel, howell mountain 2002 summit lake cabernet sauvignon, howell mountain
Dorothy Lane Market (DLM) Oakwood
Friday, August 17, 2007 5-8pm: Lacryma Christi Del Vesuvio 2004 Waterbrooke Melange 2005 Tandem Pinot Noir 2002 Big Tattoo Syrah 2004 Shooting Star Zinfandel 2004 Brown Bag
Saturday, August 18, 2007 1-6 pm Schloss Gobelsburg NV Brut Ninet Rose 2006 Perry Creek Chardonnay 2005 Vina Robels Signature 2003 Sterling Vineyards SVR 2004 LeMaciohe Brunello 2001 Bonus Bottles!
Beers: Daleside Old Leg Over and Rogue Juniper Pale
DLM Washington Square
Thursday, August 16, 2007 5-8 pm 2006 Robert Pecota Sauvignon Blanc 2005 La Cavee Cotes du Ventoux 2004 Liberty School Cabernet Sauvignon 1999 Sierra Cantabria Reserva Rioja NV Veuve Clicquot Mystery Wine!
Saturday, August 18, 2007 12-5 pm “Fifi’s Found Some New Favorites” 2004 Domaine des Baumard Savennieres 2005 Antinori Castello della Sala Chardonnay 2006 McManis Pinot Noir 2004 Bogle Phantom 2006 Domaine Terlato Chapoutier Shiraz-Viognier 2001 Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Dorothy Lane Springboro Friday, August 17, 2007 3-7pm 2005 Solitude Chardonnay 2003 Arcadian Pinot Noir Sleepy Hollow Vineyards 2004 Alto Moncayo Veraton 2004 The Scrapper Cabernet Franc
Saturday, August 18, 2007 12-5 pm 2003 Louis Jadot Meursault 2002 Henry’s Drive Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Ramey Syrah 2005 Pride 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
Tasting from Friday, August 17 -Thursday, August 23, 2007: Kir Royal Cave de Ribeauville 2005 Adante Boudin 2005 Chablis Font-Destiac 2005 Bordeaux Domaine Raquillet 2005 Mercurey Jean Luc Dubois 2005 Ladoix Pecan Stream 2004 Cabernet/Shiraz
Beer: Kronenberg 1664 Food: TBA Wednesday, August 22 5-7 PM Drop-In Oregon and Washington Wine Tasting Cuvee welcomes Heidie Bangerter representing Duck Pond Cellars in Oregon and Desert Wind Winery in Washington and their wines. Chef Chris will have snacks.
Saturday, August 25 Dog Days of Summer Tasting at Cuvee to benefit SICSA. Bring your dog! Cuvee will take collections for SICSA: Visit www.sicsa.org/wish-list.htm for items they need:
Monday, August 27: Winemaker Tasting-Steve Felten of Norman Vineyards, Central Coast, California
Arrow Centerville 615 Lyons Rd Centerville Saturday, August 18, 2007 11 am-5pm 937-433-6778 Campagnola Prosecco… 2005 Creation Pinot Grigio/Chardonnay… 2005 Taft Street Pinot Noir… 2001 Villa Buonasera Sangiovese… 2004 Campagnola Amarone… 2000 Campagnola Brunello di Montalcino… 2002 Arbios Cabernet Sauvignon
Trader Joe’s, Town & Country at Stroop and Far Hills Tasting Thursday 6:00-8:00, Sunday 4:00-7:00. La Ferme Julien White (2006) AOC Cotes du Luberon La Ferme Julien Rosé (2006) AOC Cotes de Ventoux La Ferme Julien Red (2005) AOC Cotes du Luberon Plus 2 beers! Gila Monster Amber Lager and Stockyard Oatmeal Stout
THE WINE GALLERY Saturday August 18, 2007, MARKET WINE IMPORTS (2nd Street Market) 2006 LaSirena Red Malvasia and 2005 Canaletto Pinot Noir
Saturday August 18, 2007, THE WINE GALLERY AND CAFE (11:30AM to Midnight) 2003 LaSirena Cabernet Sauvignon, 2005 Stonewolf Pinot Noir and 2005 Ventana Chardonnay
August 22, 2007, 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM 2004 Fritz Windisch Riesling Trocken Sparkling 2004 Cave de Ribeauville Pinot 2005 Robert Klingenfus Pinot Noir 2005 Tobin James Chateau la Casheflo 2005 Chateau Vergnes Beauliev
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 937-320-9548 Wine Wednesdays 5pm to 7pm in the bar. Wednesday, August 22, 2007 5-7 LOUIS JADOT Chardonnay Macon-Villages France, 2005 RODNEY STRONG Pinot Noir Russian River Valley, 2005 MONTEBUENA Tempranillo Rioja Spain, 2004 ERNIE ELS Cabernet Sauvignon Stellenbosch South Africa, 2003
FLEMINGS’S SPANISH WINE DINNER AUGUST 24, 2007 6:30PM WITH SPEAKER CLAY DAUM WITH CODORNIU OF SPAIN $85 PER PERSON AN ARTISINAL DISPLAY OF THREE SPANISH CHEESES - CODORNIU, Brut Cava Raventos Reserva NV ROMAINE BASKET TOPPED WITH A LOBSTER GAZPACHO - RAIMAT, Chardonnay Costers del Segre Spain, 2005 FIRE ROASTED PHEASANT ACCOMPANIED BY A FIG & CHERRY REDUCTION SERVED WITH A BLUE CORNMEAL MASA TOWER - SCALA DEI, Priorat Cartoixa, 2002 VEAL AND CHORIZO PAELLA WITH A TRI-COLOR ORZO - SCALA DEI, Priorat Negre, 2005 POACHED PEAR AND FRIUT CONFIT WITH CHOCOLATE ALMOND GANACHE - CODORNIU, Brut Pinot Noir Cava NV
Pacchia Wine Tasting, 410 East Fifth Street Thursday, August 9, 2007 6-8 pm
5th Street Wine & Deli, 416 E. Fifth St. in Dayton’s Oregon Historic District Saturday, August 18, 2007, 2-6 pm
Therapy Cafe, 452 E. Third St., Sunday Wine Series Tasting from 4 to 8 p.m. will. Tasting flights of any of 3 or all are available. Complimentary cheese, fruit, Tapas and deserts
The Winds Wine Cellar Yellow Springs, OH August 17th 7 p.m. Sauvignon Blancs from around the world.
Chin’s Ginger Grill will be featuring monthly wine tasting events on the third Wednesday of every month. Wednesday, August 22 at 6:30 PM will feature wines from Rosenblum Cellars: Kathy’s Cuvee Viognier, California 2006 Vintner’s Cuvee Syrah, California 2004 North Coast Zinfandel, Appellation Series 2005 San Francisco Bay Zinfandel, Appellation Series 2005
The cost is $20.00 per person and appetizers will be served. Please call for reservations, 667-6664.
The new Winans location at the Dayton Mall is now open. They are planning a Grand Opening next week with events or promotions everyday, including wine and champagne tastings!
Wine Source -11802 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati, Ohio 45246 (Rt. 4 at I-275) 513-671-2085 6 P.M. Eight Wines. 8-17-07 Ballentine Chenin Blanc Bonanno Sangiovese La Gerla Rosso di Montalcino McManis Cabernet Toad Hollow Erik’s the Red Langmeil 3 Garden’s GSM Cimicky Trumps Shiraz Toad Hollow Risque
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, August 17th, Drop-in 5-8 pm Beautiful Blends. Light appetizers, reservations requested (to help us plan for food and wine!) Big House White ~ California Sokol Blosser Evolution ~ Oregon KitFox Vineyards Foxy Red ~ California Blackjack Allusion Red ~ California Hartley Ostini Hitching Post Generation Red ~ California
Saturday, August 18, 3-6 Blended Wines from Around the World
Friday, August 24th, 7 pm J. Lohr Vineyards. Amber Lee of J. Lohr Vineyards will present six wines, reservations requested.
Saturday, August 25th, 3-6 PM ~ Wines of California’s Central Coast.
Harmony Hill Vineyards is producing a new dessert wine for release by their Thanksgiving Weekend Barrel Sampling Event. They are delegating the naming of this new release to the faithful supporters of Harmony Hill Vineyards. So submit your ideas to Harmonyhillfarm@aol.com
La Petite France 3177 Glendate-Milford Road Cincinnati, Ohio www.lapetitefrance.biz Call 513-733-8383
Kinkead Ridge Winery 904 Hamburg Street Ripley OH 45167 937-392-6077 www.KinkeadRidge.com SUMMER HOURS Saturday from Memorial Day through mid-September, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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‘Affable, dynamic’ founder of Toad Hollow winery dies
Todd Williams, or “Dr. Toad” to those who knew him, has passed away at the age of 69, according to WineBusiness.com.
He was a native of Versailles, Ky. Wonder how many California winemakers hail from Versailles, Ky.?
I seem to recall a much-talked-about Toad Hollow wine luncheon at Jay’s many years ago. I wasn’t there, so somebody help me out: Was Dr. Toad there?
If anyone has any anecdotes or memories they’d like to share, well — please do so.
Mark Fisher
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3 area restaurants get their first Wine Spectator awards, even if they did face little scrutiny
Last time I wrote about Wine Spectator Restaurant awards, it triggered quite a response. I was called a tripe-monger (among other things), and even the magazine’s publisher, Marvin Shanken, waded into the swamp.
This time, we’ll keep it nice and mellow — well, for the most part. While I take a late-summer week away from the office, we’ll just offer an early peek at a Taste of Wine column I wrote for this coming Friday’s (8-17-07) Dayton Daily News Life section concerning the Spectator’s restaurant awards program, along with some, ahem, commentary. Here ‘tis:
Michael Anthony’s at the Inn at Versailles in Darke County, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar at The Greene in Beavercreek, and Mesh in West Chester have joined the ranks of area restaurants to receive an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator magazine.
The three newcomers join Jay’s and the Pine Club in Dayton, Carvers in Washington Twp. (yes, it’s owned by a parent company called Paragon, even though that’s confusing) and Jag’s Steak & Seafood in West Chester as recipients of the self-nominated awards for wine lists.
“The entire executive staff at The Inn at Versailles are avid wine lovers,” said Todd Dammeyer, director of guest services for Midmark Corporation, which operates the restaurant and inn. “It is quite an honor to be recognized as having one of the world’s best wine lists, and (we) will continue to improve our list.”
Bretton Lammi, certified sommelier and a manager at the one-year-old Mesh, said he believes the award will help attract customers. “When I go out to other cities, I use the Wine Spectator guide as a guide to where to eat,” Lammi said.
After several years of receiving an Award of Excellence, l’Auberge was not listed among the recipients in the Wine Spectator dining guide this year. L’Auberge owner Josef Reif said a former employee neglected to submit a complete application to the magazine, and restaurant officials found out about the oversight too late to correct it. Reif said he has received calls from a couple of customers who noticed l’Auberge had been dropped from the 2007 list.
It’s difficult to assess what the awards signify. Wine Spectator does not screen the food offerings or visit the vast majority of restaurants that receive its Awards of Excellence (restaurants that receive the more prestigious Best of Award of Excellence and the top Grand Award of Excellence are far more likely to be evaluated by in-person visits). The magazine accepts or rejects restaurants based on its evaluation of wine lists and food menus submitted by the restaurants, which pay an application fee.
Wine Spectator itself says, “It’s important to note that our awards evaluate wine lists, not restaurants as a whole. While we assume that the level of food and service will be commensurate with the wine lists entered by award winners, this unfortunately is not always true. We cannot visit every award-winning restaurant (although all Grand Award winners and many others are inspected by Wine Spectator editors), so we encourage our readers to alert us to discrepancies and disappointments.”
Last year, Wine Spectator Publisher Marvin Shanken told the Dayton Daily News that it would be too costly to inspect every restaurant that applied.
This year, 3,955 restaurants total received one of the three levels of awards. Of those, 3,131 received the first-tier Award of Excellence. The magazine’s dining guide states that those first-tier award winners “generally have more than 100 selections” and “offer better producers and demonstrate a thematic match to the restaurant¹s cuisine.”
Now last year, I noted on these pages that the magazine generated more than $1 million in application fees but seemed to be telling its readers in its disclaimers that “We know our dining guide means little, but we’re laughing all the way to the bank … When we ‘encourage our readers to alert us to discrepancies and disappointments,’ what we’re really saying is, ‘You do our jobs for us, but we’ll keep the entry fees. Deal?’ “
This in no way denigrates the wine lists at the three area restaurants that received awards for the first time this year (or the repeat winners, for that matter). Fleming’s does an outstanding job with wines, always offering 100 selections by the glass, using fine stemware and serving wines at the proper temperatures. Michael Anthony’s at the Inn has a very fine list (I’ve dined there once and had a positive experience with both the wine and the food). I haven’t yet been to Mesh but have heard considerable positive buzz about it.
But the question remains, if the Wine Spectator doesn’t evaulate dining, why does the magazine call it a “dining guide?”
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You and I are blazing a trail — and others are following
Looks like you and I are on the leading edge of a trend: check out the StreetInsider.com story entitled U.S. Wine Drinkers Finding More to Like Every Year, which charts an “impressive” rise in wine consumption during 2006, continuing a long-term pattern.
Good to know we are not alone.
Couple of interesting tidbits in the report: imported wines are growing faster than U.S.-made wines, thanks in part to a resurgence of interest in French wines, whose sales jumped nearly 22 percent. Still, it was an Australian producer (Yellow Tail) that leads the pack of imports, followed by an Italian producer, Cavit — and both recorded impressive sales gains for the year. (Both mega-producers were part of our Riesling smackdown two months ago, by the way, with the Cavit impressing the tasting panel enough for a tie for first.)
Are you seeing the “wine movement” in your circle of friends and colleagues? Do you have friends who are getting into wine moreso than in the past? What do you think are the reasons behind the current trends?
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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The inside scoop on McCormick & Schmick’s
Yes, McCormick & Schmick’s opens its doors at The Greene at 4 p.m. today. But even before it opens, folks have strong opinions about it, based on the comments submitted to the story I wrote last week for the Dayton Daily News business pages.
One rather different approach that the Portland, Oregon-based chain of McCormick & Schmick’s (it also has restaurants in Cincinnati and Columbus) has come up with is in its “Happy Hour” strategy: The food is discounted instead of the drinks, and the restaurant offers a late-night “Happy Hour II” four nights a week. The menu changes daily, but you might be able to get a half-pound burger for $1.95 or a bowl of steamed mussels for $3.95 if you order in the bar between 4:30-6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and again from 9 to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday (the happy hour sequel is not offered Friday nights). One big catch: you must order two drinks to get the happy hour food prices, although local restaurant officials say the drinks do not have to be alcoholic drinks.
As for wine, Chris Roth, the head chef for M&S’s new Beavercreek location, told me that once the restaurant calms down from its opening, he’d like to hold special wine dinners and test potentially new food menu additions during the dinners.
The restaurant offers two different sizes of pours — 5 ounces or 8 ounces — for the 28 wines it serves by the glass. Thus, you can get a 5-ounce glass of Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling for $6.25 or an 8-ounce pour for $9. For the Kendall-Jackson Vintners Reserve Chardonnay, it’s $8.50 for the smaller pour, $13.50 for the larger. The restaurant has nearly 100 wines by the bottle, including King Estate Pinot Gris ($47), Jordan Chardonnay ($75), J. Lohr Estates Merlot ($44) and Saintsbury Carneros Pinot Noir ($71).
How do those prices compare to other restaurant wine lists? And what has been your experience with McCormick & Schmick’s, either here or elsewhere?
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Restaurant owners: Here’s one way to boost wine sales
Workers at The Winds restaurant in Yellow Springs sample all of the new dishes and by-the-glass wines they’ll be serving to diners throughout August. Photo by Teesha McClam/Dayton Daily News
Restaurant owners throughout the country stay awake nights trying to figure out how to boost wine sales in their restaurants. Meanwhile, in quiiet little Yellow Springs, Ohio, a restaurant has followed the same winning formula for more than 25 years. Read “The Winds Cafe servers know their stuff”, which I wrote for Friday’s Dayton Daily News Go! section.
Thanks and cheers!
Mark Fisher
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NYC psychiatrist launches second career in Ohio vineyards
Dr. David Kraus in his vineyards near Sandusky
I’ve written just a smidge about Dr. David Kraus of Hermes Estate Vineyards/Sand Hill Winery near Sandusky in north-central Ohio. He’s the New York City psychiatrist who on many weekends returns to his boyhood home in north-central Ohio to grow grapes and make wine. Surprisingly good wine, actually, from some rather surprising grape varieties.
Well, there’s more on Dr. Dave in this Wine Enthusiast Online story entitled “Sandusky Surprise” written by — of all the crazy things — me. Later in the summer or early fall there will another very different piece on Kraus in Wines & Vines magazine, which, as you’ll recall, is edited by Miami County native Jim Gordon, who, in turn, writes the Unreserved wine blog for Wine Enthusiast Online.
Are you as confused as I am? Maybe we need a psychiatrist.
We can find one in some vineyards up in Sandusky.
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
(Photo by — um — Mark Fisher)
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Wine tastings, meet wine lovers
Better late than never — I’ve been traipsing around southern Ohio, even managing to visit a couple of wineries along the way. But you don’t care about that. You just want the WINE TASTINGS LIST, BABY. So whaddaya waitin’ for? Click on “continue reading” already …
Jays Kitchen Door Friday, August 10, 2007 4-8 pm 2004 Chateau De Serane 2004 Chateau Le Bososcq 2004 Chateau Belgrave 2003 Essence
Saturday, August 11, 2007 1-6 pm Chateau Ste. Michelle Indian Wells Chardonnay Chateau Ste. Michelle Dry Rose Chateau Ste. Michelle Erocia Northstart Merlot
Crabfest Saturday, August 11, 2007 12:30 pm $65 Sweet Stone Crab Claws with Dipping Sauce and Crab Spring Roll, Dungeness Crab Salad with Vine Ripened Tomatoes and Avocado in a Citrus Vinaigrette, Trio of Crab - Dungeness, King and Blue with Sweet Chili and Roasted Vegetables, Lemon-Blueberry Crisp Wines will be selection of Chateau Ste. Michelle, Indian Wells Chardonnay, Dry Rose, Erocia, North Star Merlot and a dessert wine
Lobsterfest Saturday, September 22, 2007 $65 Steamed Mussels, Shrimp and Lobster in a Garlic-White Wine Broth, Lobster Apple Slaw, While Steamed Maine Lobster with Buttered Potatoes, Green Beans and Sweet Corn Pudding, Berry Basket
Arrow - Kettering
Both Arrow Wines have a new website! arrowwineandspirits.com
Saturday, August 11, 2007 11-5 pm nv bortolotti prosecco 2005 domaine alain normand macon la roche vinuse 2006 slipstream sauvignon blanc 2005 klingenfus pinot noir, alsace 2006 mollydooker, blue eyed boy 2004 alto moncayo
Dorothy Lane Market (DLM) Oakwood Friday, August 10, 2007 5-8pm Martin Cotay Albarino 2006 Chateau Boswell Dutton Ranch 2005 Saint Siffrein Chateauneuf-duPape Blanc 2006 Arcadian Sleepy Hollow Vineyard Pinot Noir 2003 Chateau Pey Latour Bordeaux 2005 Brown Bag
Saturday, August 11, 2007 1-6 pm Dourthe Bordeaux Blanc 2005 Benton Lane Pinot Gris 2006 Chateau Boswell Chardonnay Braughton Vineyard 2005 Rombauer Merlot 2002 Chateau Belgrave Bordeaux 2004 Uccelliera Brunello 2002 Bonus Bottles!
DLM Washington Square Thursday, August 9, 2007 5-8 pm 2006 Verdad Rose 2006 Dourthe Bordeaux Blanc 2004 Chateaux de Serame Minervois 2003 Chateau Teyssier Bordeaux 2003 Helix Pomatio (Columbia Valley) Mystery Wine!
Saturday, August 11, 2007 12-5 pm Fifi’s “Bubbling All Over” Tasting Ca’ Tulio Prosecco Schramsberg “Mirabelle” Brut Rose Laurent Perrier Brut 2006 Mollydooker “Goose Bumps” Sparkling Shiraz 2006 Haras Sauvignon Blanc 2004 Haras Cabernet Sauvignon Mystery Wine!
Dorothy Lane Springboro Friday, August 10, 2007 3-7pm 2006 Martin Codax Albarino True Earth Chardonnay 2004 JC Cellars First Date 2004 Hendry Red Wine
Saturday, August 11, 2007 12-5 pm 2005 Selene Sauvignon Blanc 2004 Verget Corton Charlemagne 2003 Calera Mt. Harlan Cuvee 2001 St. Supery Dollarhide Cabernet Sauvignon
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 Tasting from Friday, August 10 -Thursday, August 16, 2007 Shoofly 2006 “Buzz Cut” Whit Anne Amie 2006 Pinot Gris Ramey 2005 Russian River Chardonnay Vina Albali 1997 Gran Reserva Ventana 2004 Grenache Farleigh 2005 Zinfandel Pecan Stream 2004 Cabernet/Shiraz Beer: Kronenberg 1664
Saturday, August 11, 2007 Cuvee will be tasting the new “14” wines and also many wines from Reynolds Family and Brookdale Estates. “14” is a collaborative effort including grapes from 14 appellations resulting in one phenomenal cult-status wine. Winemakers Steve Reynolds of Reynolds Family Winery and Kristi Seitz of Brookdale Vineyards will be at Cuvee at 6 pm!
Joe Davis, winemaker and owner of Arcadian Winery will return Thursday, Aug. 16 for a drop-in Tasting. 5-7 PM Chardonnay, Pinot Noirs, and Syrahs, Snacks
Wednesday, August 22:Oregon and Washington Wine Tasting
Monday, August 27:Winemaker Tasting-Steve Felten of Norman Vineyards, Central Coast, California
Arrow Centerville 615 Lyons Rd Centerville Saturday, August 11, 2007 11 am-5pm 937-433-6778 2004 Bouchaine Chardonnay… 2004 Renwood Sierra Zinfandel… 2002 Kunde Merlot… 2005 Rosenblum Petite Sirah… 2005 Coppola Claret
Trader Joe’s, Town & Country at Stroop and Far Hills Tasting Thursday 6:00-8:00, Sunday 4:00-7:00. Trader Joe’s French Market wines Sauvignon Blanc (2005) Pays d’Oc Reserve Merlot (2004) Pays d’Oc Cabernet Sauvignon (2005) Pays d’Oc
THE WINE GALLERY August 15, 2007, 6PM to 9PM Charles de Fere Rose Brut ‘06 Tangent Albarino ‘03 Cladius Merlot ‘04 Ventana Grenache ‘00 Pata Negra Gran Reserva
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. Wednesday, August 15, 2007 5-7 RAIMAT Chardonnay Costers del Segre, 2005 CRISTOM Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Mt.Jefferson Cuvee, 2005 CHATEAU BEL AIR Haut-Medoc, 2001 FRANCISCAN Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, 2004
Friday, August 10, 2007 Martini Friday Features
Pacchia Wine Tasting, 410 East Fifth Street Thursday, August 9, 2007 6-8 pm
5th Street Wine & Deli, 416 E. Fifth St. in Dayton’s Oregon Historic District Saturday, August 11, 2007, 2-6 pm 2006 Dr. Richter Riesling 2006 Toad Hollow Rose 2006 Woop Woop Shiraz 2005 Curious Beagle 2005 Steltzner Claret 2003 Fritz Cabernet
Therapy Cafe, 452 E. Third St., Sunday Wine Series Tasting from 4 to 8 p.m. will have 9 wines from Australia. Tasting flights of any of 3 or all are available. Complimentary cheese, fruit, Tapas and deserts
The Winds Wine Cellar Yellow Springs, OH August 17th 7 p.m. Sauvignon Blancs from around the world.
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, August 10th, 5-8 pm Wine Trends Favorite Wines Beyond Sauvignon Blanc Laetita 2005 Chardonnay Estate Ludovicus 2005 Peter Lehmann’s Clancys Red 2004 Klinker Brick 2004 Farrah Syrah
Saturday, August 11th, 3-6 Little Sonoma Favorites Benziger Chardonnay Ponzi Pinot Gris Morgan Syrah Avalon Cabernet Sauvignon
La Petite France 3177 Glendate-Milford Road Cincinnati, Ohio www.lapetitefrance.biz Call 513-733-8383
Kinkead Ridge Winery 904 Hamburg Street Ripley OH 45167 937-392-6077 www.KinkeadRidge.com SUMMER HOURS Saturday from Memorial Day through mid-September, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Sangria breaks all the rules
I write about Sangria this morning in the Life section of the Dayton Daily News. The story includes four recipes — got a favorite recipe one of your own? Readers can comment and make suggestions on the story, and one has already suggested a tweak to one of the recipe I included.
A tall, ice-cold glass sure sounds good on a day like today, doesn’t it?
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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A journey into Burgundy
Photo courtesy of Tony Blesas
Some of you know Tony Blesas, one of the Dayton area’s wine-tasting pioneers and in one way my predecessor: he wrote a wine column for the newspaper here in Dayton a while back (well, a couple of decades or more, but who’s counting, right?).
Well, Tony recently returned from an annual sojourn to France, and today I’ll allow him to hijack Uncorked so we can all live vicariously for a few short, sweet moments. Here’s Tony’s “preliminary report” from the vineyards of Burgundy and Champagne:
Just got back from 4 weeks in France. Although a large portion was spent in Provence, we did manage to stop in Burgundy and Champagne a few days to “check” how things were going. In both places the winemakers told us that because of a mild winter and a rather warm spring the harvest will be about a month sooner this year than normal. August 25 was the average start day mentioned in both places.
In Burgundy we visited Chateau Pommard. It is one of the largest privately owned winery. You will not find their wine in restaurants or in stores. All 80,000 bottles are sold at the winery. They claim they have about 20,000 visitors a year and selling an average of 4 bottles a person, takes care of their inventory. Between Bruce Scranton and myself we made sure that that average was solid, if not increased! We tasted their ‘99, ‘04, ‘05. All worth buying.
We also tasted several other ‘05 vintages. All were wonderful even the lesser villages e.g. Saint Romain. For the Chablis it is the consensus that the 04 will age longer than the 05. We did manage to taste 04, 05 and 06 Chablis. All were delicious.
I don’t know if it is because of the vacation, the atmosphere or something else, but often wines tasted in Dayton are not as exciting as the one we taste locally in France. Is it the transportation? Storage? Or, as I have heard from some winemakers, they sometimes vinify their wines differently for the American market.
In Champagne we visited two Champagne houses: Veuve Cliquot and Rene Geoffroy. Obviously Veuve Clicquot, which sells millions of bottles a year is a rather formal affair. They concentrate on history and a visit to the caves. Very little of production is seen. We were offered an interesting bottle to taste, which I hope will make it to the US someday: a special blend, presently for the Italian market to serve with antipasti. It is heavier in taste than their normal blend.
At Rene Geoffroy, everything is informal. We were greeted by Jean-Batiste Geofroy, the present owner of the winery. I said, informal. He was in shorts and all during our visit he interrupted himself to lend a hand in the ” degorgeage” and packing. If you are a regular at the DLM annual wine tasting, you may have met him in November 04.
He is situated in the charming small village of Cumieres, about 20 minutes South of Reims. The village is also famous, like Bouzy, for it’s red wines. One of his specialties is his Brut Rose. Unlike other Champagne makers who blend at the end some red wine with the white Champagne, Geoffroy makes a rose wine by letting the red grape skins in contact with the grape juice and then ferments and bottles the rose champagne.
The whole winery employs seven people who take care of everything: vines, harvest, crushing, blending, bottling, degorgeage, packing, shipping, etc. A real “Ma & Pa” place.
That is it for now. Only eleven months till the next trip to the French vineyards, but who is counting!
Tony
(Sigh) Thank you, Tony. And cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Ohio’s new wine shipping laws putting the squeeze on wineries, consumers
Seven weeks ago, I posted an entry entitled New wine laws dropped into state budget bill with little examination or debate, attempting to raise the alarm of sorts that Ohio legislators were poised to slip into law, very quietly, some new language concerning wine shipping. The legislators succeeded in their efforts: the new language was incorporated into the state’s budget bill and approved with little or no scrutiny, let alone analysis.
Well, the fallout is now being felt. Take a look at this entry from ShipCompliant Blog entitled “Ohio Adopts Restrictive Permit System”. Wineries such as Paloma Vineyards are copying Ohio customers who have previously purchased wine from the winery on the warning letter of sorts, which reads:
On June 30th, Ohio Governor Ted Strickland signed the fiscal year 2008-09 budget bill. Similar to the current legislative maneuvering in Wisconsin, this was an unusual development to see wine shipping provisions inserted into a state budget bill. As we reported earlier, the law changes Ohio’s court ordered open status for shipping wines to a limited/direct permit shipping state. This bill presents a number of issues. First, the capacity cap restricts wineries that produce more than 150,000 gallons (roughly 63,000 cases) annually from receiving a permit. Additionally, the following sentence in the bill has everyone scratching their heads. Sec. 4303.233. No family household shall purchase more than twenty- four cases of nine-liter bottles of wine in one year. What exactly does “family household” mean? Did they really mean to say “nine-liter bottles”? I don’t think that any family in Ohio would ever really purchase twenty-four Salmanazars in one year, but how would one convert that into standard 750 mL bottles? Is this a Massachusetts/Indiana-style volume limit where the limit applies to the household across all wineries? If so, how could a winery in California possibly know how much volume has shipped to their Ohio customers from other wineries across the country? Finally, does one year mean one calendar year or any rolling 365 day period? Hopefully Ohio will answer all of these questions very clearly. If they don’t, most will likely choose not to ship to Ohio given the uncertainty around shipping the 25th “case”. The new law is set to take effect 90 days after being signed, in this case September 28th, but the Division of Liquor Control may push this to October 1st. Stay tuned for more information once Ohio promulgates or clarifies these rules.
Oh great, now we have newly minted laws that have the very entities being regulated “scratching their heads” in confusion.
Does anybody think this will end well?
Mark Fisher
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Why are Ohio wineries panhandling their customers?
First, thank you again for all your comments and mini-reviews on Restaurant Week (more than two dozen now). Keep them coming. Lots of great stuff, and I can assure you, your comments are being read — and they matter.
But as always, we move on. A story on WineSpectator.com describes how some northern Ohio wineries and wine-industry folks have “launched a grassroots preservation program for the area’s vineyards.”
The story goes on to say that:
The program, called One for the Grape, hopes to leverage the support of tourists by enlisting the help of local wineries, bed and breakfasts and other businesses to collect a voluntary $1 (or more) donation from customers with each purchase. Money raised will support vineyard-protection programs, including subsidizing new vines and leveraging short-term land easements, as well as assist growers with maintenance costs like wind machines and workforce training.
Questions, I have questions, starting with: Is this really needed? Is anyone holding a gun to the heads of these vineyard owners demanding that they sell their acreage? What happened to a polite but firm “no thanks?” Or is it that the property taxes on the more valuable land are suddenly bankrupting the wineries?
Or is this just, well, panhandling?
I’m just a consumer. I don’t run a winery. And I realize that many Ohio winemakers are tied up at this weekend’s Vintage Ohio in northeast Ohio. But can someone explain the necessity of this?
Cheers!
Mark Fisher
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Hot Fun … in the Summertime
Hot Fun in the Summertime. Wasn’t that a Sly and the Family Stone song? Or am I dating myself here?
In any event, check out how some local independent restaurants are responding to the competition from chains in my story from today’s Dayton Daily News front page and business section, which also gives you the chance to post comments as well. I also wrote short reviews of the menu changes and other enhancements at three local restaurants — l’Auberge, Pacchia and Figlio — in the DDN’s Go! section today, but I don’t see that piece available online this morning.
Speaking of reviews, thank you for all your comments and mini-reviews on Restaurant Week (we’re closing in on two dozen as of this writing). Keep them coming, since there are still dinners being served tonight (Friday).
Wine tastings — oh yeah. Click on “continue reading” to access the Dayton area’s ONLY comprehensive (and growing, as you’ll see!) list of wine tastings, dinners and other special events, which comes to Uncorked courtesy of a Dayton-based wine listserv that compiles the information. As always, for tastings and events in the Cincinnati area, check out Michelle’s blog at My Wine Education.
Thanks and cheers!
Mark Fisher
Jays Kitchen Door Friday, August 3, 2007 4-8 pm NV Moet Chandon Nectar Imperial 2005 Montaribaldi La Consolina Barbera d’Asti 2004 Tenuta del Fontino Rosso 2003 Poderi Marcarini Brunate Barolo 2001 Sassetti Pertimali Brunello Reserva
Saturday, August 4, 2007 1-6 pm 2003 Les Armus de Lagrange (White Bordeaux) 2001 Poderi Marcarini La Serra Barolo 2000 Banfi Brunello di Montalcino 2002 Chateau Monbousquet
Crabfest Saturday, August 11, 2007 12:30 pm $65 Sweet Stone Crab Claws with Dipping Sauce and Crab Spring Roll, Dungeness Crab Salad with Vine Ripened Tomatoes and Avocado in a Citrus Vinaigrette, Trio of Crab - Dungeness, King and Blue with Sweet Chili and Roasted Vegetables, Lemon-Blueberry Crisp Wines will be selection of Chateau Ste. Michelle, Indian Wells Chardonnay, Dry Rose, Erocia, North Star Merlot and a dessert wine
Lobsterfest Saturday, September 22, 2007 $65 Steamed Mussels, Shrimp and Lobster in a Garlic-White Wine Broth, Lobster Apple Slaw, While Steamed Maine Lobster with Buttered Potatoes, Green Beans and Sweet Corn Pudding, Berry Basket
Arrow Wine & Spirits — Kettering Saturday, August 4, 2007 11-5 pm 2006 selene sauvignon blanc, hyde vineyard 2005 brewer-clifton chardonnay, seasmoke 2005 vila, tinto fundacion 2002 wolf blass cabernet sauvignon, gold label 2004 renwood zinfandel, old vines 2005 domaine de la solitude cotes du rhone 2004 alto moncayo, veritan
Dorothy Lane Market (DLM) Oakwood Friday, August 3, 2007 5-8pm Mak Chardonnay 2003 Toad Hollow Pinot Noir 2005 Domaine Montagnette Cote du Rhone 2004 Justin Isosceles 2003 Ciaci Piccolomini Brunello 2002 Brown Bag
Saturday, August 4, 2007 1-6 pm Frogs Leap Sauvignon Blanc 2005 Domaine Marey Chassagne Montrachet 2003 Au Bon Climat Santa Barbara Pinot Noir 2006 Rutherford Hill Merlot 2002 Ciacci Piccolo,imi Rosso di Montalcino 2005 Collosorbo Brunello 2002 Bonus Bottles!
DLM Washington Square Thursday, August 2, 2007 5-8 pm 2006 Kinkead Ridge Revelation White 2006 Au Bon Climat Santa Barbara Pinot Noir 2004 Masi Modello 2005 Ciacci Piccolomini Rosso di Montalcino Mystery Wine!
Saturday, August 4, 2007 12-5 pm 2006 Kinkead Ridge Roussanne Viognier 2004 Domaine de la Cadette Bourgogne 2003 Keenan Merlot 2002 Ceja Sonoma Coast Syrah 2003 Burgess Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Mystery Wine!
Dorothy Lane Springboro Friday, August 3, 2007 3-7pm 2005 M. Chapoutier Belleruche Blanc 2005 M. Chapoutier Belleruche Rouge 2005 M. Chapoutier Petite Rouch 2005 Domaine de Menard
Saturday, August 4, 2007 12-5 pm Just stop by and see what they are pouring!
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 Tasting from Friday, August 3 -Thursday, August 9, 2007 Mudhouse 2006 Sauvignon Blanc K Vintners 2006 Viognier Domaine Charles Audoin 2004 Marsannay Domaine Puydeval 2005 Klinker Brick 2004 Farrah Syrah Klinker Brick 2005 Old Vine Zinfandel Hunnicutt Cabernet Sauvignon Beer: Kronenberg 1664 Food: TBA
Saturday, August 11, 2007 Cuvee will be tasting the new “14” wines and also many wines from Reynolds Family and Brookdale Estates. “14” is a collaborative effort including grapes from 14 appellations resulting in one phenomenal cult-status wine. Winemakers Steve Reynolds of Reynolds Family Winery and Kristi Seitz of Brookdale Vineyards will be at Cuvee at 6 pm!
Tuesday, August 14, 2007 Joe Davis, Winemaker and Owner of Arcadian Winery will be here to help host Cuvee’s wine dinner at 6:30 PM
Arrow Centerville 615 Lyons Rd Centerville Saturday, August 4, 2007 11 am-5pm 937-433-6778 2006 O’Reilly’s Pinot Gris… 2002 Wolf Blass Gold Label Cabernet Sauvignon… 2003 Artesa Cabernet Sauvignon… 2002 Toasted Head Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignion… 2004 Penley Estates “Phoenix” Cabernet Sauvignon… 2004 Titus Cabernet Sauvignon
Trader Joe’s, Town & Country at Stroop and Far Hills Tasting Thursday 6:00-8:00, Sunday 4:00-7:00. Napa River Exclusive Wines - 100% Napa County: Chardonnay (2005) Merlot (2005) Cabernet Sauvignon (2004)
THE WINE GALLERY
August 8, 2007, 6PM to 9PM
Syrahs/Shirazs from around the World
2003 Sugarloaf Syrah, California
2005 Yelcho Syrah, Chile
2005 Lirac Rouge Red Rhone Wine, France
2005 Syrah Bacchus Vineyards Glen Fiona WA. 2003 Morambro Creek
Shiraz, Australia
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. Wednesday, August 8, 2007 5-7 JIM BARRY Riesling Clare Valley The Lodge Hill, 2004 HARTFORD COURT Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast Land’s Edge, 2005 DOMAINE TERLATO & CHAPOUTIER Shiraz-Viognier Victoria, 2005 BOOKWALTER Lot #21 Columbia Valley NV
Friday, August 3, 2007 Martini Friday Features
Pacchia Wine Tasting, 410 East Fifth Street Thursday, August 2, 2007 6-8 pm Rene Barbier Mediterranian Red Rene Barbier Mediterranian White 2006 Martin Codex Albarino 2003 Abadia Retuerta Rivola Seleccion Especial(75% tempranillo, 20% Cabernet sauvignon, 5% Merlot) 2000 Abadia Reteura Cuvee Palomar (50% Tempranillo 50% Cabernet Sauvignon)
5th Street Wine & Deli, 416 E. Fifth St. in Dayton’s Oregon Historic District Saturday, August 4, 2007, 2-6 pm
Therapy Cafe, 452 E. Third St., Sunday Wine Series Tasting from 4 to 8 p.m. every Sunday. August 5, 2007 8 selected wines from South Africa Complimentary cheese, fruit, Tapas and deserts
The Winds Wine Cellar Yellow Springs, OH August 17th 7 p.m. Sauvignon Blancs from around the world.
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, August 3rd, 5-8 pm Six French Wines with light appetizers Saturday, August 4, 3-6 pm Four Favorite French Wines
Middletown Fine Wines 721 Briel Blvd. Middletown, Oh 45044 (513) 423-3631 Saturday, August 4, 2007 1-5pm 06 Leitz Dragonstone Riesling 05 Prendo Pinot Grigio 05 Stephen Vincent Sauvignon Blanc 05 Bouchard Pinossimo 03 Claudius Merlot 05 Schild Estate Shiraz
La Petite France 3177 Glendate-Milford Road Cincinnati, Ohio www.lapetitefrance.biz Call 513-733-8383
Kinkead Ridge Winery 904 Hamburg Street Ripley OH 45167 937-392-6077 www.KinkeadRidge.com SUMMER HOURS Saturday from Memorial Day through mid-September, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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High-alcohol wines ignite controversy
First, if you’re looking for Restaurant Week reviews, click here. But for now, we move on.
The wine blogosphere has been abuzz for the past week over the letter that Napa Valley winemaker Randy Dunn sent to media and others in the wine community decrying the proliferation of high-alcohol wines (click on “continue reading” below to see Randy’s letter).
Two observations — perhaps a bit contradictory, but observations nonetheless:
— Dunn is absolutely right. Many California wines — and some European wines from hot-climate wine-growing regions — have pushed the “ripeness” envelope too far, and high sugar content translates into high-alcohol wines (if fermented dry). The wines can taste impressive at first sip, but are tiring if not exhausting to drink through a meal. And the high-alcohol wines coming from Santa Barbara, Paso Robles and other areas of California that boast nearly 12-month growing seasons don’t seem to age well at all.
— On the other hand, isn’t it a bit ironic that many of the winemakers who are outspoken against high-alcohol wines grow grapes in areas that don’t lend themselves to ultra-ripe grapes to begin with? I know some winemakers in other parts of the U.S., including Ohio, who are jumping onto this anti-high-alcohol bandwagon. But their growing seasons don’t allow them to ripen their grapes to anywhere near a level that would produce a 15 percent alcohol wine, at least not without help in the cellar.
I’m just sayin’ …
Cheers, and keep those Restaurant Week comments coming!
Mark Fisher
(Click on “contine reading” to read Randy Dunn’s letter.)
It is time for the average wine consumers, as opposed to tasters, to speak up. The current fad of higher and higher alcohol wines should stop. Most wine drinkers do not really appreciate wines that are 15 -16. +% alcohol. They are, in fact, hot and very difficult to enjoy with a meal. About the only dish that seems to put them in their place is a good hot, spicy dish. I don’t believe the average person is so insensitive to flavors and aromas that they must have a 15% Cabernet, Chardonnay, or Pinot Noir to get the aromas and flavors. Influential members of the wine press have lead the score chasing winemakers/owners up the alcohol curve and now I hope that it soon will lead them down. Winemaking is not really much different than cooking. The end product should be enjoyable to consume - not just to taste. Hopefully most who read this don’t think it’s a novel concept that we should be making wines to consume. Would you want to sample a soup, meat dish or other course that is so overpowering that you cannot enjoyably finish what is in front of you? These new wines are made to taste and spit - not to drink. This is all linked to my views on the ever evasive and vanishing terroir; the subtleties of terroir in wines have been melted together in a huge pot called “overripe” or the vogue “physiologically mature” grape. Gone are the individualities of specific regions, replaced by sameness - high alcohol, raisiny, pruney, flabby wines. Likewise, the descriptor “herbaceous” was often used in a positive sense when describing Cabernets. Now it is the kiss of death. Voluptuous - I do remember seeing that only occasionally, but not on the aroma/flavor wheel. So I would like the consumers to take the lead for a change, rather than being led. Ask for wines that are below 14% when you are out to dinner. The reactions are fun, but the results are not good for United States wines. The sommelier usually comes back with a French or New Zealand wine. On the restaurant level, high alcohol wines have reduced the number of bottles sold. It is very simple arithmetic; % alcohol times volume equals satisfaction. If % alcohol goes up, volume must go down for satisfaction to stay the same - or else we all get plastered. Consumers - wake up and get active. Reviewers -please at least include the labeled alcohol percentage in all your reviews, and try to remember that not everyone is spitting.Tweet
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A luxury pinot tasting tonight, and more restaurant week reviews
I dined at the jam-packed Meadowlark last night for Restaurant Week, and write about it here on the Restaurant Week post. The reader reviews are still rolling in, including one from a diner who didn’t think much of his experience at one local eatery. Ouch.
Meanwhile, the wine folks at Dorothy Lane Market’s Oakwood store aren’t letting a little thing like Restaurant Week discourage them from having a high-end pinot noir tasting from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. tonight (8-1-07). All of the pinots come from historic Calera Wine Company and range in price from $40 to $70 (they’ll also taste a $30 Calera Mt. Harlan Chardonnay). It’s a drop-in tasting — no reservations necessary, and you choose which wines and how many you want to taste. Each taste is priced according to the bottle cost. The tasting is held upstairs at the DLM store; the stairs are between the wine department and the produce section.
Cheers, and keep those Restaurant Week comments coming!
Mark Fisher
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