tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9024184092960362082024-03-05T05:45:20.437-08:00Twits Wine ClubA Wine Club in Atlanta, GA, founded in 2008. We meet to taste wine, gab, snack, and learn. TWITs is all about having fun, trying wines, and growing your palate.Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.comBlogger257125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-14222097237420171692022-03-27T13:44:00.001-07:002022-03-28T12:28:54.139-07:00Upcoming Events & About Us<h2>
<b>Welcome to TWITs - </b><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/welcome-to-twits-wine-club-blog.html">click here to read about us</a>.</span></h2>
<b><span style="color: purple;"> List of Wines the TWITs have tried so far</span> ---></b><a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/wines-twits-have-tried-so-far.html"> TWITs Events</a><b><br /></b><b> </b><br />
<b> <span style="color: purple;">Helpful Tasting & Pairing Aides</span></b> ---> <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/helpful-tasting-aides.html">Help</a><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">TWITs Events:</span> </b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><b><br /></b></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><b>Coming up next:</b></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><b><a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2022/03/ukrainian-wines-food-april-30th-2022.html" target="_blank">Ukrainian Wines & Food Pairings</a> - Saturday April 30th, 2022 - hosted by Abbie </b></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">Theme TBD - August 2022</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">Theme TBD - TWITs Holiday Tasting & Blanc Elephant Gift Exchange - December 2022 - hosted by Abbie & Matt</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><b>Our Previous tasting:</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><b><br /></b></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><b><a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2021/06/twits-battle-of-bottles-june-5th-2021.html" target="_blank">Battle of the Bottles</a> - Saturday, June 5th, 2021 - hosted by Chad & Christy</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><b><br /></b></span></span>
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<b><i>Wine Infographics:</i></b><br />
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White Wine <a href="http://seanseidell.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/WhiteWineInfographic_Web.png">http://seanseidell.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/WhiteWineInfographic_Web.png</a><br />
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Red Wine: <a href="http://seanseidell.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/RedWineInfographic72dpiWeb.png">RED wine</a><br />
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Sean Seidell also does Infographics on more than just Wine items, which is also pretty darn cool. Follow his Facebook page here: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/seanseidellartscience" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>seanseidellartscience</a></div>
Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-63471120138773909642022-03-27T11:30:00.000-07:002022-03-28T11:27:03.678-07:00Wines TWITs have tried so far:2022 <span style="font-size: x-small;">(14 years of TWITs)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">January - March - </span><span style="font-size: 12px;">skipped due to COVID-19 variants</span><br /><span style="font-size: 12px;">April - <a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2022/03/ukrainian-wines-food-april-30th-2022.html" target="_blank">Ukrainian Wines & Food</a> </span><span style="font-size: 12px;">- hosted by Abbie</span><br /><span style="font-size: 12px;">August - </span><br /><span style="font-size: 12px;">October / </span><span style="font-size: 12px;">November -</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">December - </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12px;"><b><u>--------------------------------------------------------- PREVIOUS YEARS -------------------------------------------------------------------------</u></b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span>
2008<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">January - March</span><span style="font-size: 12.48px;"> - I missed these first few</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">April - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/malbec-tasting-april-2-2008-hostess-ms.html">Malbec</a> - hosted by Ms. Shannon<br />May - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/grenache-may-7th-2008-hostess-ms-abbie.html">Grenache</a> - hosted by Ms. Abbie<br />June - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/pinot-grigio-june-2008-hostess-ms.html">Pinot Grigio </a>- hosted by Ms. Amanda<br />July - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/chianti-july-9th-2008-hostess-ms-jane.html">Chianti</a> - hosted by Ms. Jane<br />August - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/reisling-august-6th-2008-hostess-ms.html">Reisling</a> - hosted by Ms. Mina<br />September - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/monastrell-september-10th-2008-hostess.html">Monastrell </a>- hosted by Ms. Sarah<br />October - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/rioja-wine-october-15-2008-hostess-ms.html">Rioja</a> - hosted by Ms. Abbie<br />November - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/petite-sirah-november-19-2008-hostess.html">Petite Sirah</a> - hosted by Ms. Jennifer<br />December - no wine club this month</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;"><br /></span>
2009<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">January - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/champagne-january-21-2009-hostess-ms.html">Champagne</a> - hosted by Ms. Jane<br />February - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/organic-red-wines-nsa-february-11-2009.html">Organic Red Wines with No Sulfites Added </a>- hosted by Ms. Abbie<br />March - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/isaw-wines-march-18-2009-hostess-ms.html">ISAW Wines</a> - hosted by Ms. Mina<br />April - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/pinot-noir-april-15-2009-hostess-ms.html">Pinot Noir from Willamette Valley Oregon </a>- hosted by Ms. Elizabeth K.<br />May - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/sauvignon-blanc-may-13-2009-hostess-ms.html">Sauvignon Blanc</a> - hosted by Ms. Elizabeth<br />June - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/06/nero-davola-june-10-2009-hostess-ms.html">Nero D'Avola</a> - hosted by Ms. Shannon<br />July - no wine club this month<br />August - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/08/viognier-august-12th-2009-ms-deb-ms.html">Viognier</a> - hosted by Ms. Deb & Ms. Jennifer<br />September - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/09/tempranillo-sept-16-2009-ms-elizabeth-k.html">Tempranillo</a> - hosted by Ms. Elizabeth K.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">CANCELLED</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">October - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/09/tba-october-7th-2009-ms-leslie.html">Barbera</a> - hosted by Ms. Mina</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">November - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/10/gamay-november-2009-ms-abbie.html">Gamay/Beaujolais</a> - hosted by Ms. Abbie</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">December - </span><a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2009/11/holiday-sparkling-wines-december-16th.html"><span style="font-size: 12.48px;">Holiday Sparkling Wines</span></a><span style="font-size: 12.48px;"> - hosted by Ms. Sarah</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;"><br /></span>
2010<span style="font-size: 12.48px;"><br />January - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2010/01/wine-and-cheese-pairings-january-13th.html">Wine & Cheese Pairings</a> - hosted by Ms. Jane<br />February -<a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2010/02/isaw-event-at-emily-amy-gallery.html"> ISAW Foundation Tasting at Emily Amy Gallery</a> - hosted by ISAW, EAG, and the TWITS<br />March - no wine club this month<br />April - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2010/03/chilean-wines-april-14th-2010-ms-abbie.html">Chilean Wines</a> - hosted by Ms. Abbie<br />May - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2010/05/pinot-noir-may-26th-2010-ms-deborah-ms.html">Pinot Noir</a> - hosted by Ms. Deborah & Ms. Jennifer<br />June - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2010/05/pinot-grigio-june-9th-2010-ms-marilyn.html">Pinot Grigio</a> - hosted by Ms Marilyn<br />July - no wine club this month<br />August - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2010/07/rose-august-11th-2010-ms-abbie.html">Rose</a> - hosted by Ms Abbie<br />September - cancelled</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">October - </span><span style="font-size: 12.48px;"><a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2010/08/prosecco-september-15th-2010-ms-kat.html">Prosecco </a>- hosted by Ms Kat</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">November - no wine club this month<br />December - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2010/11/sparkling-wines-december-1-2010-ms.html">Sparkling Wines</a> - hosted by Ms Abbie</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: 16px;">2011</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">January - no wine club this month</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">February - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2011/02/south-african-wines-february-23rd-lanes.html">South African Wines</a> - hosted by Ms Abbie</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">March - North <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2011/02/preperations-for-our-georgia-wine-tour.html">Georgia Winery</a> Tour</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">April - no wine club this month</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">May - no wine club this month</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">June - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2011/06/le-caveau-wine-tasting-06042011.html">Le Caveau</a> tasting 6/4/11</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">July - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2011/07/le-caveau-tasting-07032011.html">Le Caveau</a> tasting 7/3/11</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">August - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2011/08/spanish-wines-august-31st-ms-abbie.html">Spanish Wines</a> - hosted by Ms. Abbie</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">September - no wine club this month</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">October - no wine club this month</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">November - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2011/11/french-red-wines-november-22nd-ms-abbie.html">French Red Wines </a>- hosted by Ms. Abbie</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">December - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2011/11/syrahshiraz-december-14th-2011-ms.html">Australian or South African Shiraz/Syrah</a> - hosted by Ms. Marilyn</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;"><br /></span>
2012<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">January - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2012/01/tempranillo-january-17th-2012-ms-ardela.html">Tempranillo</a> - hosted by Ms. Ardela</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">February - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2012/01/february-wine-club-tuscan-wines-at-le.html">Tuscan Wines</a> - hosted at Le Caveau</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">March - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2012/02/garnacha-grenache-march-12th-ms-leslie.html">Garnacha</a> - hosted by Ms. Leslie</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">April - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2012/03/next-adventure-twits-bus-tour-georgia.html">Georgia Mountain Wineries Bus Tour</a> - TWITs Event</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">May - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2012/05/next-adventure-bottle-shock-movie-night.html">Bottleshock Movie Night</a> - hosted by Mr. Janssen</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">June - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2012/05/twits-try-arizona-wines-le-caveau.html">Arizona Wines & Blood Into Wine Documentary Viewing</a> - hosted by Le Caveau & Prime Wine & Spirits</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">July -<a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2012/06/rose-with-mr-janssen-tuesday-july-17th.html">Rose</a> - hosted by Mr. Janssen</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">August - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2012/07/wine-to-water-tasting-august-21-2012-ms.html">Wine to Water</a> Charity Event - hosted by Ms. Deb</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">September - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2012/08/chianti-with-ms-susan-tuesday-september.html">Chianti </a>- hosted by Ms. Susan</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">October - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2012/09/isaw-foundation-wines-ms-ardela-october.html">ISAW Foundation Wines</a> - hosted by Ms Ardela</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">November - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2012/10/gamay-beaujolais-noveau-ms-marilyn-nov.html">Gamay & Beaujolais Nouveau</a> - hosted by Ms. Marilyn</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">December -<a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2012/11/twits-holiday-party-christmas-cabernet.html">Christmas Caberne</a>t - hosted by Ms. Abbie & Mr. Matt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;"><br /></span>
2013<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">January - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2012/12/january-2013-tbd.html">Le Caveau and Joe Herrig</a> - New Wines for 2013</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">February - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2012/12/vino-venue-tasting-february-19th-2013.html">Vino Venue </a>- Try the Enomatic Wine Tasting System</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">March - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2012/12/march-2013-ms-valerie-mr-rheinallt.html">Bordeaux Wines </a>- hosted by Ms. Val and Mr. Rheinallt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">April - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2013/03/april-2013-theme-tba-ms-kathy-mr-jamie.html">Pinot Noir</a> - hosted by Ms. Kathy and Mr. Jamie</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">May - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2013/04/may-14th-2013-italian-wines-hosted-by.html">Italian Wines</a> - hosted by Ms. Deb and Mr. Jaffett</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">June - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2013/05/june-20th-2013-favorite-white-wines.html">I Don't Always Drink White Wine, but When I Do, I Drink This</a> - hosted by Ms Abbie and Mr Matt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">July - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2013/06/july-18-2013-le-caveau-blind-tasting-of.html">Le Caveau Blind Tasting of Natural Wines</a> - hosted by Ms Melissa and Mr Les</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">August - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2013/07/august-22nd-2013-wines-of-argentina.html">Argentine Wines</a> - hosted by Ms Abbie and Mr Matt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">September - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2013/07/sept-19-2013-blind-tasting-tbd-hosted.html">Holiday Dinner Wine Pairings</a> - hosted by Ms. Kim and Mr. Alan</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">October - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2013/05/october-19th-2013-twits-georgia.html">TWITs GA Winery Tour</a> - TWITs event</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">November - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2013/09/november-14th-2013-cabernet-franc.html">Cabernet Franc</a> - hosted by Ms Marilyn</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;">December - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2013/09/thursday-december-12th-2013-holiday.html">Languedoc Wines</a> - hosted by Mr Matt and Ms Abbie</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.48px;"><br /></span>2014<br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">January - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2013/11/january-tbd-miss-jackie.html">Syrah</a> - hosted by Ms Jacki & Mr Santi</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">February - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2014/01/thursday-february-27th-2014-red-wine.html">A Red Wine You Love</a> - hosted by Ms Abbie & Mr Matt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">March - we ended up postponing February's tasting into March, so we covered both months already.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">April - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2014/03/thursday-april-24th-2014-tomfoolery.html">Tomfoolery Tasting</a> - hosted by Ms Jackie & Mr Santiago</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">May - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2014/04/saturday-may-24th-2014-tbd-hosted-by.html">Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa or Sonoma & Pool Party </a>- hosted by Ms Lynn & Mr Brian</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">June - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2014/05/thursday-june-19th-2014-tbd-hosted-by.html">La Dolce Vita! Favorite Italian Wines</a> hosted by Ms Kathy & Mr Jamie</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">July - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2014/06/german-austrian-wines-hosted-by-eric-at.html">German & Austrian Wines</a> - hosted at Le Caveau </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">August - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2014/07/chardonnay-hosted-by-ms-ardela.html">Chardonnay</a> - hosted by Ms. Ardella</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">September - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2014/08/twits-takeover-southbound-hosted-by.html">TWITs Takeover Southbound</a> - hosted by Southbound Restaurant</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">October - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2014/10/spanish-red-wines-wednesday-october.html">Spanish Red Wines</a> - hosted by Ms. Abbie & Mr. Matt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">November - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2014/10/rhone-wines-friday-november-21st-2014.html">Rhone Wines</a> - hosted by Ms. Valerie and Mr. Rheinallt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">December - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2014/11/holiday-twits-sparkling-wines-friday.html">Sparkling Wines</a>- hosted by Ms. Marilyn</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span>2015<br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">January -<a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2015/01/winter-white-wines-thursday-january.html">Winter White Wines</a> - hosted by Ms Abbie & Mr Matt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">February - we skipped February</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">March - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2015/03/volcanic-wines-march-19th-2015-hosted.html">Volcanic Wines </a>- hosted by Ms. Karin and Mr. Joshua</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">April - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2015/03/eastern-european-red-wines-april-16th.html">Eastern European Wines</a> - hosted by Mr Matt and Ms Abbie</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">May - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2015/04/loire-valley-wines-friday-may-15th-2015.html">Loire Valley Wines</a> - hosted by Mr. Rheinallt and Ms. Val</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">June - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2015/05/rose-june-19th-hosted-by-mr-janssen.html">Rose</a> - hosted by Mr. Janssen</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">July - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2015/07/australian-wines-friday-july-31st-2015.html">Australian Wines</a> - hosted by Ms Kat and Ms Angela</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">August - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2015/06/a-gamey-twits-hosted-by-ms-deb-and-mr.html">Basque Wines and a Game</a> - hosted by Ms Deb and Mr Jaffet at Le Caveau</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">September -<a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2015/08/twits-september-19th-2015-hosted-by.html">Red Wines of the Piedmont</a> - hosted by Abbie & Matt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">October - we skipped but Abbie had a <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2015/10/my-serendipitous-encounter-with-jancis.html">Serendipitous Encounter with Jancis Robinson</a>!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">November - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2015/11/friday-november-20th-2015-au-rendezvous.html">Au Rendezvous Bistro</a> - hosted by Abbie & Matt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">December - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2015/11/holiday-twits-2015-oregon-pinot-noir.html">Oregon "Pick Your Pinot"</a> - hosted by Ms. Marilyn</span><span style="font-size: 12px;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></div>
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2016<br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">January - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2016/01/farewell-to-marnie-at-kaleidoscope.html">Farewell to Marnie @ Kaleidoscope</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">February - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2016/01/february-18th-2016-greek-wines-at-ms.html">Greek Wines</a> - hosted by Abbie & Matt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">March - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2016/03/white-burgundy-wines-at-le-caveau.html">White Burgundy Wines</a> - hosted at Le Caveau Fine Wines</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">April - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2016/04/april-28th-uruguay-and-brasil.html">Uruguay and Brasil: the Overlooked South American Wine Country</a> - co-hosted by Joshua & Karin and Deb & Jaffet</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">May - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2016/05/may-pet-nat-wines-hosted-by-ms-lauren.html">Pet-Nat Wines</a> - hosted by Ms. Lauren</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">June - skipped June</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">July - </span><a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2016/05/twits-june-2016-event-placeholder.html" style="font-size: 12px;">Shining Stars Charity Wine Tasting</a><span style="font-size: 12px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12px;">- hosted by Marilyn with Randall & Karen of Marietta Wine Market</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">August - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2016/07/twits-albarino-august-26th-2016-hosted.html">Albarino</a> - hosted by Abbie & Matt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">September - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2016/08/georgia-mountain-winery-bus-tours.html">Georgia Mountain Winery Bus Tours</a> - hosted by Marietta Wine Market</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">October - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2016/09/spooky-good-to-be-true-bargain-bin.html">Spooky-good-to-be-true Bargain Bin Wines</a> - hosted by Deb & Jaffet @ Le Caveau Fine Wines</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">November - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2016/10/twits-tbd-hosted-by-ms-kathy-and-mr.html">Zinfandel on the Porch Tasting</a> - hosted by Ms. Kathy & Mr. Jamie</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">December - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2016/10/twits-naughty-or-nice-nebbiolo-tasting.html">Naughty or Nice Nebbiolo</a> - hosted by Ms Abbie & Mr Matt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span>
2017<br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">January - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2016/12/bodega-renacer-wine-tasting-barrel.html">Bodega Renacer Wine Tasting & Barrel Painting</a> - hosted at Vino Venue</span><span style="font-size: 12.48px;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">February - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2017/01/burgundy-hosted-by-rheinallt-and.html">Burgundy</a> - hosted by Val and Rheinallt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">March - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2017/02/citi-wine-spirits-tasting-on-sunday.html">City Wine & Spirits Tasting</a> with Deb & Jaffet</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">April - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2017/03/earth-day-wine-tasting-april-22-2017.html">Earth Day Wine Tasting</a> hosted by Ms. Vicki & Ms. Lane</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">May - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2017/04/wednesday-may-10th-2017-wine-from-women.html">Wines from Women Wine Producers</a> hosted by Abbie & Matt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">June - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2017/06/twits-takeover-southbound-june-22nd.html">TWITs takeover Southbound</a> - hosted by Big Mike</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">July - Skipped</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">August - <a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2017/07/arizona-wines-blood-into-wine.html">Arizona Wines & Blood Into Wine Documentary Viewing</a> - hosted by Abbie & Matt Lane</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">September - <a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2017/09/lesser-known-italian-wines-at.html">Lesser Known Italian Wines</a> - Brookhaven Wines</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">October - Skipped</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">November - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2017/10/november-twits-hosted-by-rachel-chris.html">Tempranillo & Tapas</a> - hosted by Rachel & Chris</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">December - </span><a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2017/10/december-benefit-for-vineyards-damaged.html" style="font-size: 12px;">Benefit for Vineyards Damaged in California Wildfires</a><span style="font-size: 12px;"> - hosted by Abbie & Matt Lane</span><span style="font-size: 12px;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span>
2018 <span style="font-size: x-small;">(celebrating a decade of TWITs!)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">January - skipped</span><span style="font-size: 12.48px;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">February - <a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2018/01/february-10th-wine-chocolate-hosted-by.html">Wine & Chocolate</a> - hosted by Steve & Crissy</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">March - </span><a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2018/01/twits-10-year-anniversary-party-jan.html" style="font-size: 12px;">TWITs 10 year Anniversary</a><span style="font-size: 12px;"> - hosted by Abbie & Matt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">April - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2018/03/twits-chianti-hosted-by-ms-vicki-ms.html">Chianti</a> - hosted by Vicki & Lane</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">May - <a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2018/04/twits-may-2018-event-hosted-by-mr-chad.html">The Judgement of Paris</a> - hosted by Chad & Christy</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">June - <a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2018/05/twits-pool-party-cookout-june-22nd.html">Pool Party and Cookout</a> - hosted by Ms. Crystal</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">July - skipped</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">August - <a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2018/08/twits-chardonnay-showdown-august-23rd.html">Chardonnay Showdown</a> - hosted by Matt & Abbie</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">September - skipped</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">October - <a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2018/10/autumn-reds-hosted-by-rachel-chris.html">Autumn Reds</a> - hosted by Rachel & Chris</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">November - <a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2018/10/bring-your-favorite-holiday-wine.html">Bring Your Favorite Holiday Wine</a> - hosted by Kathy & Jamie</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">December - </span><a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2018/10/wines-of-portugal-and-blanc-elephant.html" style="font-size: 12px;">Wines of Portugal & Blanc Elephant Exchange</a><span style="font-size: 12px;"> - hosted by Matt & Abbie</span><span style="font-size: 12px;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span>
2019 <span style="font-size: x-small;">(11 years of TWITs)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">January - </span><span style="font-size: 12.48px;"></span><span style="font-size: 12px;">no host</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">February - rescheduled</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">March - </span><a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2019/01/the-world-of-alternative-white-wines.html" style="font-size: 12px;">The World of Alternative White Wines</a><span style="font-size: 12px;"> - hosted by Crissy & Steve</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">April - no host</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">May - </span><span style="font-size: 12px;">no host</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">June - </span><span style="font-size: 12px;">no host</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">July - Closed TWITs</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">August - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2019/08/twits-almost-farewell-party.html">TWITs (Almost) Farewell Party</a></span><span style="font-size: 12px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12px;">- hosted by Abbie & Matt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">September - paused - going to a quarterly format</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">October - <a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2019/08/twits-we-arent-done-yet-red-wines-from.html">We Aren't Done Yet</a> - hosted by Vicki</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">November - </span><span style="font-size: 12px;">paused - going to a quarterly format</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">December - </span><a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2019/10/holiday-twits-and-annual-blanc-elephant.html" style="font-size: 12px;">Holiday TWITs & Blanc Elephant Gift Exchange</a><span style="font-size: 12px;"> - hosted by Abbie & Matt</span><span style="font-size: 12px;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">2020 </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">(12 years of TWITs)</span><br style="font-size: medium;" /><span>January - skipped</span><br style="font-size: medium;" /><span>February - <a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2020/01/february-15th-date-night-wines-hosted.html">Date Night Wines </a>- hosted by Crissy & Steve</span><br style="font-size: medium;" /><span>March - Battle of the Bottles</span><span> - hosted by Chad & Christy - POSTPONED due to COVID-19</span><br style="font-size: medium;" /><span>April - <a href="https://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2020/03/no-foolin-virtual-wine-happy-hour-april.html">Virtual Wine Happy Hour</a> - hosted by Abbie & Matt</span><br style="font-size: medium;" /><span>May through December - skipped due to COVID-19 Pandemic</span><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: 12px;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: 12px;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;">2021 </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">(13 years of TWITs)</span><br style="font-size: medium;" /><span>January - May - </span><span>skipped due to COVID-19 Pandemic</span><br style="font-size: medium;" /><span>June - </span><span><a href="http://twitswineclub.blogspot.com/2021/06/twits-battle-of-bottles-june-5th-2021.html" target="_blank">Battle of the Bottles</a></span><span> - hosted by Chad & Christy</span><br style="font-size: medium;" /><span>August - </span><span>December - skipped due to COVID-19 variants etc.</span></span></span></div>
Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-79031067313581537442022-03-26T10:25:00.005-07:002022-04-22T11:24:50.808-07:00Ukrainian Wines & Food - April 30th, 2022<p><b>Ukrainian Wines & Food</b> - April 30th, 2022 - hosted by Abbie</p><p><b>Theme:</b> Ukrainian Wines & Food</p><p>Russia launched a full-scale military invasion into Ukraine on February 24, 2022, fighting has caused over nine hundred civilian deaths and pushed millions of Ukrainians to flee to neighboring countries. More information on the conflict <a href="https://www.cfr.org/global-conflict-tracker/conflict/conflict-ukraine" target="_blank">here</a>. We stand with Ukraine and join the United Nations, G7, EU, and other countries continuing to condemn Russian actions and support Ukrainian forces. I am appalled to also learn that Russia is forcing deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia. Stealing children? It is sickening. </p><p>I felt a need to assist in some way. Yes, donating money is one way, which many of us have done. However, what else can we do? War brings about many other casualties, sometimes even cultural extinction. We have seen this in history many times. I sincerely hope this will not happen. In any case, I wanted to bring awareness and understanding of Ukrainian culture, learn about it myself, and perhaps find new ways to help. So, the TWITs will do what we do best: experience their wines, their food, and music. </p><p>Trying to find Ukrainian wines in the Atlanta area was nearly impossible. I contacted nearly every boutique wine shop in town, and also checked with my contacts among local distributers and importers. Nobody was able to procure much of anything for us (2 bottles of sweet wine were the only options). Not willing to give up on this challenge, I turned to the internet and began searching. I finally found two sites which had Ukrainian wines in stock and would ship to Georgia. Special thanks to <a href="https://tipxy.com/">https://tipxy.com/</a> and <a href="https://bestbuyliquors.com/">BestBuyLiquors.com</a>. Both sent me wines via FedEx. I was able to procure wines from <a href="https://chizay.com/en/" target="_blank">Chateau Chizay</a> and <a href="http://shabo.ua/en/tsentr-kultury-vina/" target="_blank">Shabo</a>. </p><p>The next step was to find Ukrainian food to pair with the wines. Unfortunately, I could not find any local Ukraine restaurants, although I did find a few Russian ones. I have read their cuisine is very similar. I am <b>not</b> boycotting any local Russian restaurants. However, I opted to order a <b><a href="https://smile.amazon.com/Annette-Ogrodnik-Corona/e/B00DW10H3O/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1">cookbook </a> </b>so we could create the food ourselves. I felt it was a better way to experience the culture. Chateau Chizay in particular, has an onsite <a href="https://chizay.com/en/restaurant/" target="_blank">restaurant</a> which prepares foods to pair with their wines (of course). While the website is <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Languages_of_Ukraine#:~:text=The%20official%20language%20of%20Ukraine,native%20speakers%20of%20other%20languages." target="_blank">translated</a> in English, the menu was not. I did a rough google translate to figure out some of the dishes. They also had a few menu items on their site translated with photos, so that was helpful also. </p><p><a href="https://ukr.wine/index.html" target="_blank">Ukraine</a> has a origins of winemaking dating back to the 4th century BC (in Crimea), going back 2500 years back in the present-day Odesa region. </p><p>"<a href="https://chizay.com/en/about-us/" target="_blank">Chateau Chizay</a> is one of the most important wineries of Ukraine. The historical region of Transcarpathia is located in the Western Ukraine, in the area of Carpathian Mountains where Ukraine borders Hungary, Poland, Romania and Slovakia. Here the mild sun light is wonderfully combined with optimal rainfall amount, and Carpathian Mountain landscape covers the vineyards from northern winds. Soil, full of minerals and micronutrient elements adds a unique taste to the grapes, and wine gains a very special nature." - from their website</p><p>"<a href="http://shabo.ua/en/o-tsentre-kultury-vina/" target="_blank">Shabo Wine Culture Center</a> is located in a resort area in the Odesa Region, southern Ukraine – one of Europe’s oldest regions where winemaking traditions are dated as far back as the ancient times. Shabo Wine Culture Center is the only tourist complex in Ukraine located right on the premises of an active winemaking enterprise – combining state-of-the art, high-tech production process with unique historical and cultural landmarks."</p><p><b>Bring:</b> TWITs should bring $35/person to cover the cost of the wines</p><p><b>Food Pairings: </b>TBD I ordered a cookbook, pending delivery</p><p><b>Tasting Notes:<i> </i></b><i>(prepped in advance)</i></p><p><b>Shabo Royal Story Korolevskoe Royal Shabo White</b> 750ML 3/$26.67 REGION: Odes'ka (Odessa) VARIETALs: Blend, Aligote, Rkatsiteli - Made from rkatsiteli and aligote grown in Ukraine. The wine has a light straw color, enjoyable taste, and harmonious aroma with floral tones. Shabo – one of the oldest terroirs in Europe. Progenitors of winemaking in this region are considered the ancient Greeks. It is they who in VI-II centuries BC founded on the Black Sea the village of Tyre (later – city Ackerman) and had the first vineyards planted here. And it was more than 2.5 thousand years ago. <b>Rkatsiteli</b> is a highly-valuable Georgian grape variety, inducted to the ‘golden stock’ of Georgian winemaking. This variety originates from Kakhetia. Translated from Georgian, its name means ‘red vine’. Rkatsiteli is considered a universal grape variety, a ‘Jack of all trades’. It is used to produce European- and Kakhetian-type wines, which cannot be confused with anything else. Rkatsiteli shows excellent result in the production of grape alcohol used in brandies and grape vodkas. Finally, it is simply a tasty table grape from which one can make an enjoyable and healthy grape juice. ***Rkatsitelli pairs excellently with Lebanese, Turkish, Iranian and even Indian cuisines including spiced meats, aromatic rice, lentils, bean dip, and smoked eggplant.</p><p><b>Shabo Chardonnay Grand Reserve 2016</b> 750ML 3/$56.67 REGION: Odes'ka (Odessa) VARIETALs: Chardonnay, dry white wine, 13.5% alcohol, straw core with shiny golden highlights, transparent halo, limpid. tropical fruits, floral, great minerality, melted butter, dry herbs, vanilla, high acidity, high alcohol, medium body. ***pairs with Chicken Kiev</p><p><b>Chizay Red Blend Kosher</b> × 1 750ml $13.99 - Semi-sweet, Kosher red wine is made from selected Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes of the 2018 harvest. Blend is a mixture of varieties. The name Red Blend means that we have combined the best bunches of the world's two most famous grape varieties to create a true harmony of taste and aroma - an elegant and balanced wine, with a pleasant tartness in taste and a special floral and fruity range of aromas. Red Blend wine was created specifically for export to the United States. Volume - 0.75 liters, Alc. - 12%, Sugar - 45 g / l, Color - Red, Grape variety - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Aroma - full of floral and fruity nuances, Taste - harmonious, shades of flowers, pleasant tartness, ***In an excellent example of contrast, sweet wines are a natural match for very spicy or salty foods. However, the sweet flavor of semi-sweet or off-dry wines also pairs well with naturally sweet dishes, such as honey-glazed ham, or pork with a port wine reduction sauce.</p><p><b>Chizay Pinot Noir</b> × 3 750ml $56.97 - A special red dry wine made from Pinot Noir grapes of the same name and aged in French oak barrels for 12 months. The aroma of the wine is complex, with bright tones of ripe black berries, spices and hints of vanilla. In the rich taste of Pinot Noir, dark berries of blackberry, black currant, cherry and plum are harmoniously combined with elegant tannins. The wine is well structured and leaves a long aftertaste. Volume - 0.75 liters, Alc. - 13.9%, Color - Red, Grape variety - Pinot Noir, Aroma - ripe black berries, spices, notes of vanilla, Taste - ripe cherries, blackberries, black currants, plums, elegant tannins, ***Fits to: wildfowl Game, meat, mature-cheese, Hard cheeses, red-fish</p><p><b>Shabo Merlot Reserve 2018</b> 750ML<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>3/$29.67 - REGION: Odes'ka (Odessa) VARIETALs: Merlot - Made from selected Merlot grapes, harvested by hand at dawn from special areas of Shabo «terroir», where the highest quality viticulture practices are applied to obtain great quality grape. After double-sorting of grapes, fermentation takes place in oak tanks «Taransaud» (France) with temperature control. Aging for at least 6 months in oak barrels adds nobleness and complexity to wine. ***grilled/roasted beef, blue cheese, chicken, berries, garlic, mushrooms, lamb, pork loin</p><p><b>Chizay Cabernet Sauvignon Kosher</b> × 3 750ml $32.97 - Intense pomegranate-colored dry wine made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Aging in French oak barriques for 9 months. The bouquet of wine is rich in aromas of ripe cherries and currants combined with notes of paprika, tobacco and cocoa. The taste is balanced, with a pleasant tannin structure, which feels the spicy tones of pepper, chocolate and blackberries. The aftertaste is rich and long. Volume - 0.75 liters, Alc. - 14%, Color - Red, Grape variety - Cabernet Sauvignon, Aroma - ripe cherries and currants, notes of paprika, tobacco and cocoa, Taste - pleasant tannin structure, spicy tones of pepper, chocolate, blackberry, rich and long aftertaste, ***Fits to: wildfowl Game, meat, mature-cheese, Hard cheeses, ribeye steak,</p><p><b>Shabo Royal Story Kagor (Cabernet Sauvignon) Ukrainian</b> 750ML 3/$29.67 - Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon, Produced from the cabernet sauvignon grape variety grown in Ukraine, The deep, dark garnet color highlights a complex, round, harsh taste with prune, chocolate, and blackcurrant tones ***beef, mushrooms, lamb, cheddar cheese,</p><p><b>Chizay Moscato Kosher</b> × 1 750ml $10.99 - Semi-sweet, Chateau Chizay MOSCATO semi-sweet white kosher wine is made from Muscat Ottonel grapes grown in Chateau Chizay vineyards. It has a special and extremely pleasant fruity-floral aroma with light notes of spices. The amazing taste of Moscato is characterized by a delicate tingling of tiny bubbles and has a wonderful balance between refreshing acidity and sweet fruity notes. Volume - 0.75 liters, Alc. - 12% Sugar - 45 g / l, Color - White, Grape variety - Muscat Ottonel, Aroma - pleasant, fruity-floral, light notes of spices, Taste - moderately sweet, balanced, harmonious, long aftertaste of nutmeg, ***Fits to: chicken, vegetables, mature-cheese, Hard cheeses, fruit, </p><p><b>Chizay Ice Wine Riesling</b> × 1 375ml $29.99 - An unusual, rare and world-famous dessert wine made from grapes that froze on the vine during the first frosts. The juice in the berries at this time is concentrated, extremely sweet and fragrant. The high value of this wine is due to the large number of frozen and preserved berries, which are needed to squeeze enough juice. Volume - 0,375 l, Alc. - 12%, Sugar - 110 g / l, Color - White, Grape variety - Rhine Riesling, Aroma - bright, tones of white flowers, exotic fruits, quinces, peaches and citrus, The taste is harmonious with floral and fruity notes, ***Fits to: cupcake or Desserts, fruit</p><p><b>Chizay Butterfly Chocolate</b> × 1 500ml $6.99 Brand: Chizay, Size:500ml, ABV 11.50%, This wine possesses a subtly sweet, natural chocolate flavor with a hint of roughness that is truly delightful. Enjoy chilled, on the rocks, in various cocktails or ***with desserts.</p><p><b>Odessa - V.S.O.P. Brandy</b> × 4 100ml $23.96 - Belonging to world-famous ShustoFF’s Cognac Family, brandy Odessa is currently #4 best-selling brandy in the world according to Drinks International’s Millionaires’ Club 2021. This V.S.O.P premium quality brandy is produced in the ideal climate conditions, because the distillery that was founded by Nikolay Shustov in 1863 is located by the cost of Black Sea. The brandy was named after the city that is renowned for centuries of winemaking and brandy production – Odessa. Tasting notes: Balanced, Bold, Butter, Caramel, Chocolate, Dried Fruit, Fig, Honey, Intense, Oak, Sweet, Toasty, Vanilla, Velvety, Brand: Odessa Brandy Size: 100ml, ABV: 40.00% - <i>ok ok I know Brandy isn't really wine but... I wanted to try this.</i></p>Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-31427271379053002852021-06-05T11:30:00.000-07:002021-06-15T11:36:19.713-07:00TWITs Battle of the Bottles - June 5th, 2021<b>TWITs Battle of the Bottles - </b><i>originally set for March 14th, 2020, but was postponed due to the pandemic. Rescheduled to</i><b> Saturday, June 5th, 2021.</b><br />
hosted by Chad & Christy<br />
<br />
<b>Theme:</b> Battle of the Bottles - blind tastings between various pairs of bottles, you have to guess which one of the two is the expensive wine ($50+), and which is the budget bottle (~$20 or less). <div> 1st Place: The most accurate guesses goes to Drew! He guessed 5 out of 6 bottle battles correctly!<div> 2nd Place: Val with 4 correct guesses</div><div> 3rd Place: Tie between Abbie and DuPree with 3 correct guesses <br /><i>
We did not guess on the Welcome Wines (in case you were counting).</i></div><div>I'd like to give honorable mention to Rheinallt for the most hilarious tasting notes I've read in a while. Great job sassy pants!</div><div><br />
TWITs brought $40/pp to cover the cost of the wines.<div><br /></div><div><b>Food Pairings:</b></div><div>Chad & Christy prepared some wonderful food pairings for us.</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" height="640" id="id_3be5_5ff6_e80_5d57" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/bDeqBzxqkjlXm8ESXrq44eJsp9OCAF4dD4l-SkqI_PnESldv4QjQw6JBNCpbGkPEKLA=w480-h640" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" width="480" /></div><br />
<b>Tasting Notes:</b></div><div><i>All bottles purchased via Wine.com</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><b>Welcome Wine</b></div><div>Food Pairing - Charcuterie Board</div><div><b>Bottle 1: J Vineyards California Cuvee - $24.99</b></div><div>12.5% alcohol</div><div>vs</div><div><b>Bottle 2: Champagne Gimonnet-Gonet L'Origine Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs NV - $45</b></div><div>12% alcohol</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Riesling </b></div><div>Food pairing - Shrimp w cocktail sauce<div><b>Bottle 1: 2017 Dr Loosen Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling - $49.99 </b></div><div>12.5 % alcohol</div><div>Petrol, stone fruits, minerality, dry, honeysuckle, tropical, unripe papaya, pear, semi-dry, honeydew citrus, no petroleum, very light, shite, sickly, too sweet, nice acidity, but no petrol, cloying after palate, floral, pear, very dry for Riesling, good pear floral, gardenia, I liked this one just guessed wrong, pear floral dry</div><div>vs</div><div><b>Bottle 2: 2018 Pewsey Vale Eden Valley Dry Riesling - $16.99</b></div></div><div>12% alcohol</div><div>kerosene, soapy, musky, stinky, viscous, dry briny, gasoline, clean, dry, lots of gasoline, ribana, layers of minerals, it's a deal it's a steal, very dry, briny, petrol, soapy, mineral, not so good, petroleum, flower, pear, plastic, new toy, dry, flower</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sauvignon Blanc</b></div><div>Food Pairing - Bacon/Goat Cheese/Olive Quick Bread</div><div><b>Bottle 1: 2018 Beyond Sauvignon Blanc Buitenverwachting South Africa - $10.99</b></div><div>13.5% alcohol</div><div>citrus, lemony, depth, olive, brine at back palate, peaches, pithy, peach cobbler, mineral, lemon, very nice clean nose, spitting out citrus like a deranged satsuma, RH's fave wine of the evening! lemon, dry, acid, very balanced, lemon, sugar, citrus, sweet but rich smooth, fresh, crisp, not very grassy, citrus, would like to drive this to me, brine, citrus, lemon</div><div>vs</div><div><b>Bottle 2: 2015 Cloudy Bay Te Koko Sauvignon Blanc New Zealand - $69.99</b></div><div>14% alcohol</div><div>petrol, peaches and cantaloupe, stone fruits in yo face, tangerine candy, rich, no no no no no No Zealand, stone fruit over the top, too much acid, too much mineral, less sweet, crisp, grapefruit, sophisticated, peaches, like 1, crisp, peach cobbler, peach, jackfruit, sweet</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Rose</b></div><div>Food Pairing - Strawberry salad (Baby lettuces with feta, strawberries, and almonds)</div><div><b>Bottle 1: 2018 Chateau Romassan Ott Bandol France - $58.99</b></div><div>13% alcohol</div><div>almost no nose, drinking air, flavored water, if you put bubbles in it it's a White Claw, light in color, no me gusto, devoid of character, vapid but roughness, why you give me roughness? no want. very delicate strawberry, cream, White Claw flavored water, dry, light, doesn't taste like much, color off, very bland</div><div>vs</div><div><b>Bottle 2: 2018 </b><b>Famille Combard </b><b>Figuiere Magali Signature Cotes de Provence - $19.99</b></div><div>13% alcohol</div><div>better color, better flavors, bitter finish, bland but smells like a rose, bit more biting, some banana but still okay, but not good. more acid, cloying after palate, nice, a little sweeter, pepper, not so good, guest soap in grandma's bathroom</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Pinot Noir</b></div><div>Food Pairing - Asian meatballs with sauce</div><div><b>Bottle 1: 2017 J Vineyards Pinot Noir Monterey/Santa Barbara/Sonoma Counties - $18.99</b></div><div>14.3% alcohol</div><div>berries, chocolate, spice, light, dark fruits, very good California Pinot, classic Pinot attributes like cola and dandelions and burdock, fruit forward, cola, balanced, very nice, sweet berry, blueberry, rich, peppery, dark berries, devious, best so far, blackberry, light on nose, fruit forward</div><div>vs</div><div><b>Bottle 2: 2016 Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast/Sonoma County - $59.99</b></div><div>14.1% alcohol</div><div>higher alcohol, headache tomorrow wine, sour, young, very similar to the other Pinot but lighter, brighter, and better, richer mouthfeel, cola, more spice, more alcohol, cherry nose, but less (illegible sorry), </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Malbec</b></div><div>Food Pairing - Roquefort blue cheese Slider/Burger</div><div><b>Bottle 1: 2014 Tapiz Black Tears Malbec Mendoza Argentina - $54.99</b></div><div>14.5% alcohol</div><div>lovely, dark chocolate, leather, berries, woody, dark fruit, baking spices, solid little Malbec, so solid with the burger slider, yes so nice, anise spice and cloves and some other stuff, anise, nose all dark fruit</div><div>vs</div><div><b>Bottle 2: 2017 Altos Las Hormigas Malbec Clasico Mendoza Argentina - $12.99</b></div><div>13.5% alcohol</div><div>f*ck me nose, smooth, sexy, berries, jam yet dry not sweet, smiley face, hotness up the nose, high ethanol, roughness in the extreme, just rough, pickles, brine, pine, didn't like either of these, pine, smooth</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Cabernet Sauvignon</b></div><div>Food Pairing - Mini Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake</div><div><b>Bottle 1: 2017 Michael Mondavi Oberon Cabernet Sauvignon Napa County - $20.99</b></div><div>13.7% alcohol</div><div>bell pepper, chocolate bliss, bell pepper cacao on the nose, solid cab, prob new wood, maybe pedestrian Cab, spice, fruit, nice balance, like, fruity, smooth, good</div><div>vs</div><div><b>Bottle 2: 2015 Hall Eighteen Seventy-Three Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley - $74.99</b></div><div>15.6% alcohol</div><div>spice and chocolate, smiley face, this has mint, just mint, why does it have mint? spearmint at that! butter, pastry fruit nose, tannin, classic cab, more tannin</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" id="id_9bb5_7dc2_41af_6b03" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/wBHBYmWRTjz3Z_sNAMgYm6nlL46RznlDyZEGpgJbgJVcgCojgj5a3JMN5-5Df00YFsc" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" height="372" id="id_e1b9_a1b1_2190_c280" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/0yESpQQ-8xykdW6Ua_gmTzznX-My5sxFYhz_BhtFqm4iWAcZTBjs9FiMhrCDJwOnFmg=w496-h372" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" width="496" /></div><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-29377391105189227192021-06-05T08:15:00.002-07:002022-03-21T09:48:52.438-07:00WSET Level 1 - Abbie's Adventure<p><b>WSET Level 1 - Abbie's Adventure</b></p><p>With the COVID-19 Pandemic wreaking havoc across the world, yet online courses being available, I decided to finally get a wine certification through <a href="https://www.vinovenue.com/" target="_blank">Vino Venue</a> (the APP - Approved Program Provider).</p><p>WSET - stands for <a href="https://www.wsetglobal.com/knowledge-centre/blog/2019/may/07/understanding-the-sommelier-levels" target="_blank">Wine & Spirits Education Trust</a>. The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) is the largest and most recognised organisation providing formal education in wines (sake and spirits) for professionals and enthusiasts. WSET programmes focus on developing systematic tasting skills and product knowledge of the significant wines and wine producing regions of the world. The skills learnt through WSET programmes can be applied to understand and evaluate all wines, regardless of region. For this reason, many sommeliers choose to study for WSET qualifications to gain their product knowledge, opting to develop their service skills on the job.</p><p>I opted to start at the beginning with WSET Level 1. This course was approximately $250 USD. This did not include the tasting wines and food samples however. The course doesn't mandate that you purchase the wines and food samples, but it definitely helps with the learning experience. </p><p>These are the wines I purchased for my WSET Level 1 Course:</p><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" height="480" id="id_7e21_d348_6c0b_fccc" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/C8Qj9q10L2QlBdRTWF77bBDvxRdf60jClDECCY6BlRI8XZK5tP7A6N7R5Llz_-lmdcE=w640-h480" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div><br />The food items needed were: black seedless grapes, tartaric acid (I found this on Amazon.com), sugar, black tea (I used PG Tips), a sweet biscuit, salt, a slice of lemon, and cooked mushrooms or msg powder. <p></p><p>The 4-week course is offered online, at your own pace. There were no set scheduled "classes", only the requirement that you participate in the assignment chats (again at your own pace and timing), and complete all of the assignment modules before taking the exam. There is an online instructor available for a live chat once a week (scheduled at a specific time - often an odd hour for some, so as to accommodate the time zones of the multiple attendees). The live chat is optional, but it is useful if you have questions. The course I registered for started on Monday April 26th and went until Sunday May 23rd, 2021. These are the dates the online instructor is available to answer questions or reply to your chats. After the end date, the instructor is no longer available. I believe I still have access to my course materials for a set amount of time (I forget how long) so I can study. </p><p>I was surprised at how many different people from different countries were in my class. We had attendees from Italy, Ireland, China, USA, Germany, etc. so many different places. This was truly a diverse class. </p><p>I was disappointed that we could not take the exam right after class finished. Why not the same day or next day? However, the earliest available exam date was 2 weeks out. I took that time to make notes and trivia questions for my friends to quiz me on, so I could study for the exam.</p><p>The exam was taken online. I had to have 2 devices (my laptop and either a smartphone or iPad/tablet). The laptop had to have a camera and microphone, so my exam could be recorded. The iPad was so I could be recorded from the side using the ProctorExam app. This helps to ensure you are not cheating on your exam. No poster or writing can be on the walls. If you have a glass of water it has to be clear, no bottles with labels or any writing on the glass. No pieces of paper, even if blank. No other person can be in the room with you either. No wine bottles or any alcohol items in the room. The rules are pretty thorough.</p><p>I took my invigilated exam online on Sunday June 13th, 2021. I must say, it took me longer to setup all my devices, and ensure proper recording, etc. than it did to actually take the exam. They also have you film 360 degree view of the room, your desktop, under your desk, the ceiling, and all four corners of the room, to ensure there is nothing there to invalidate your test results. The exam was 30 multiple choice questions, and I had 45 mins to take the exam. I believe I finished my exam in about 10 minutes (after setup). </p><p>I am still awaiting my results. I believe the results should be sent out roughly 2 weeks after taking the exam. I hope I passed. I feel pretty good about the exam, but unlike the ITIL exams I have taken via the invigilated/online method, the WSET didn't immediately tell me my score. I understand they have to certify the results, but at least with the ITIL exams they tell you your score immediately, and then you only have to wait a few weeks for them to certify it, and send your certificate to you. Yes I did put this in my feedback survey.</p><p>Overall it was a pleasant experience and I highly recommend this certification, should you be interested.</p><p>I'll update you with my score once I get it. :)</p><p>UPDATE: I did not receive my score until October 2021. I passed. yay! However, I do not understand why it took nearly 5 MONTHS to get my exam results. I've taken ITIL proctored exams where they at least give you a preliminary score immediately after your exam - with the understanding they have to certify it officially at a later time. I would have loved to know if missed any questions right away for the WSET, but no. I had to wait. Sigh. We have the technology, not sure why AXELOS has theirs working great but WSET can't use similar tech? Now I am wondering if we get a certificate or anything to print out? Probably will take a year for that though. </p>Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-89050680138073398802020-04-01T13:03:00.000-07:002020-06-04T10:49:16.758-07:00No Foolin' - Virtual Wine Happy Hour - April 1st 7pm<b>No Foolin' - Virtual Wine Happy Hour - April 1st 7pm</b><br />
<br />
Join us on Zoom for a <b>Virtual Wine Happy Hour</b>.<br />
<br />
You'll need a computer or tablet with video capability to see and hear the participants. you can also join on your smart phone, but it will be harder to see/hear.<br />
<br />
Open a bottle of something delicious, and we will share what we're drinking, how it tastes, etc.<br />
<br />
Abbie & Matt were drinking: <b><a href="https://vinous.com/vinous_favorites">2018 Coudert Fleurie Cuvee Christie</a> </b>~ $20/bottle<br />
"This textbook Beaujolais displays raspberry, cherry and floral pastille character while dusty mineral and baking spice nuances lend complexity and lift. Juicy, balanced and finely detailed, the 2018 provides immense pleasure now but will only get more interesting over the next few years. "<br />
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Rachel & Chris were drinking: <b><a href="https://www.empirewine.com/wine/requiem-cabernet-sauvignon-2017-i35463/">2017 Requiem Cabernet Sauvignon</a></b> ~ $20<br />
"This very distinguished, super stylish Cabernet Sauvignon was grown biodynamically in Washington's Columbia Valley. Densely layered and quite substantial in the mouth, this bottling delivers generous blackberry and black currant fruit, wrapped around a vibrant core of acidity which keeps the wine pert and lively on the palate. The fruit for this bottling was sourced from 4 vineyard sites in Walla Walla and Horse Heaven Hills."<br />
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Kathy & Jamie were drinking: La Croix out of a wine glass (Kathy was on a diet?) and Jamie was drinking Terrapin Beer<br />
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Chad & Christy were drinking: <b>Happy Canyon Santa Barbara Sauvignon Blanc</b><br />
to pair with their vindaloo. I could not find the exact bottle pictured online, sorry.<br />
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Crissy & Steve were drinking: <a href="https://zichichifamilyvineyard.com/zichichi-wines.html"><b>Zichichi Old Vine Zinfandel</b></a><br />
something they had barrel tasted when they had visited wine country.<br />
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Josh & Dave were drinking: <a href="https://us.nakedwines.com/products/jac-cole-alexander-valley-unoaked-chardonnay-2019"><b>Alexander Valley Chardonnay from Naked Wines</b></a><br />
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Brandy & Louis were drinking: <a href="https://www.wine-searcher.com/find/cousino+macul+isidora+sauv+gris+maipo+valley+chile/1/any"><b>Cousino Macul "Isadora" Sauvignon Gris</b></a><br />
purchased from Iberian Pig - they were selling 6 wines for $100. (2 sparkling, 2 white, 2red)<br />
tart, floral, like a not quite ripe pear, but pairs with the pizza (white sauce pizza)<br />
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Rheinallt & Val were drinking: <b>2018 <a href="https://www.wine.com/product/frederic-esmonin-bourgogne-les-genevrieres-rouge-2017/513483">Frederic Esmonin Bourgogne Les Genevrieres Rouge</a></b> Gevrey-Chambertin. it's "jolly tasty" from Brookhaven Wines, approximately $25, pairing with pizza and brussel sprouts. it's a frozen gluten/dairy free pizza<br />
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<br />Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-59084987049300666632020-02-15T07:36:00.000-08:002020-03-31T13:17:43.763-07:00February 15th - Date Night Wines - hosted by Crissy & SteveFebruary 15th - <b>Date Night Wines</b> - hosted by Crissy & Steve<br />
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<b>When?</b> Saturday, February 15th @ 7pm ET<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Theme:</b> Date Night Wines - TWITs should bring a bottle of their favorite date wine! What date night wine would you bring to WOW a date or your significant other? I'm hoping for some funny anecdotes to go with your bottle, if you have a story to share.<br />
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<img alt="" height="640" id="id_3e0f_b8fa_8fda_7d9f" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/QhxOZ9sWbMD1cVQ0Dnd2ujsed30PiWMrBHaiNUSv79Tt4BRk_7BMJk1FKA9MgJs" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<b>Tasting Notes:</b><br />
Welcome Wine: <b><a href="https://www.totalwine.com/wine/champagne-sparkling-wine/muscat-moscato/dasti/mauro-sebaste-moscato-dasti/p/108730750">Mauro Sebaste Moscato d'Asti </a></b>~$18 @ Total Wine<br />
sparkling wine, slightly sweet<br />
<br />
1) <b><a href="https://ronrubinwinery.com/product/river-road-stephanies-cuvee-pinot-noir/">2015 River Road "Stephanie's Cuvee" Pinot Noir, Green Valley of Russian River Valley</a></b> ~ $25-28 @ Total Wine<br />
14.3 % alcohol<br />
"Any pinot is a good date wine for me." this one was curated, Stephanie (may be) the wine producer's daughter.<br />
bromantic, berries, rufanol forward on the nose (ok guys), spicy w a hint of roofie, eucalyptus, fermented grapes, chocolate notes, light, viscosity, solid pinot noir.<br />
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2) <b>2014 <a href="https://www.michelschlumberger.com/">Michel-Schlumberger </a>Merlot Dry Creek Valley</b> ~$45 from winery (albeit they do really great sales on a mixed case twice a year, and you can get them for almost $12/bottle then)<br />
14.7% alcohol<br />
Abbie & Matt visited this winery/vineyard in Dry Creek, and had a fantastic time sipping wine, snacking on appetizers, sitting on their patio in the sunshine overlooking the property. Lovely place!<br />
spicy, has heat on it, tart on back of tongue, cherry, cedar, academia adjacent, hint of brandy, makes my tongue taste like the Sahara Desert, needs some greasy food w it, lamb bolognese would be a good pairing.<br />
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3) <b><a href="https://www.dreamingtreewines.com/product/2018-the-dreaming-tree-pinot-noir-california">2018 "The Dreaming Tree" Pinot Noir</a></b> ~ $12 @ Kroger or Publix<br />
13.5% alcohol<br />
"I was dreaming of a date"<br />
soft pinot, tart cherry, easy drinking, cocoa powder, milk chocolate<br />
<br />
4) <b><a href="https://www.lionstoneny.com/wine/shroud-mountain-cabernet-sauvignon/">2017 Shroud Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon </a></b>~ $18 retail (but she got it on a subscription trial offer via National Geographic so it probably evens out to $5/bottle)<br />
13.2% alcohol<br />
(fictional story), met a guy at the National Geographic Museum (does this even exist? ha ha), they had epic sex, and then drank this amazing wine. (cue "Bad Touch" music by the Bloodhound Gang). many jokes of "Night at the Museum" come to mind now.<br />
eau de sewage, sweet broccoli, tart, dry, thin flabby finish, it already died, why did they dig it up? tastes like a museum next to a sewer, "subscriptiony"<br />
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5) <b><a href="https://www.slodownwines.com/collections/wine-shop/products/2016-sexual-chocolate">2016 SLO Down Wines "Sexual Chocolate"</a></b> ~ $25 @ CostCo or $40 @ Whole Foods<br />
14.5% alcohol<br />
Syrah, Zinfandel Blend<br />
"When you see a bottle with this name, you buy it.<br />
And drink it on date night.<br />
and then again and again<br />
and give it to your friends."<br />
smells like pizza, tastes like pizza, its almost sweet and chocolatey, chocolate berries, a berry blend, decent, too sweet for me<br />
<br />
6) <b><a href="https://www.orinswift.com/assets/client/File/Machete/2016%20Machete.pdf">2016 Orin Swift "Machete" Saint Helena </a></b>~ $55 @ Caps & Corks<br />
15.7% alcohol<br />
Petite Sirah, Syrah, Grenache,<br />
First Date, look at the label, he died happy, whoever he was.<br />
sharp, dangerous nose, very short bit of sweet on the finish, full bodied, inky purple, pepper notes, white pepper, a lil tart, machete mama, cassis, no bra, subtle minerality,<br />
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7) <b><a href="https://www.francisfordcoppolawinery.com/en/our-wines/directors-cut/cinema">2017 Francis Ford Coppola "Directors Cut" Cinema</a></b> ~ $45 retail, but was on sale $25 @ Kroger<br />
14.5% alcohol<br />
Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Syrah, and Petite Sirah<br />
"All the wine at Brandy & Louis' wedding was Coppola wine, but they have not tried this bottle yet. Their date nights usually involve red wine and chocolate, and so tonight they brought some Lindt 70% extra dark Lindor Truffles for us to pair with this one"<br />
rich, smooth, velvety, pairs with chocolate very well, red hots, delicious!<br />
<br />
8) <b><a href="https://kenwoodvineyards.com/wines/jack-london-series/jack-london-vineyard-sonoma-mountain-zinfandel-2017">2017 Kenwood Zinfandel Jack London Vineyard Sonoma Mountain</a> </b> ~ $35 retail but was on sale for $15 @ CostCo.<br />
15.6% alcohol<br />
It has a Wolf on the label, reminds her of Shakira's She Wolf song<br />
chewy, berries, clean nose<br />
<br />
9) <b><a href="https://shop.kingfamilyvineyards.com/product/Seven-2017">King Vineyards "7" Virginia</a></b> ~ $30 from winery<br />
dessert wine 17% alcohol<br />
Merlot port<br />
delicious, not too sweet. Pairs delightfully with the hazelnut chocolate ganache pie.<br />
<br />
Bonus wine:<br />
<b><a href="https://www.fortunativineyards.com/product/2017-Fortivo-Red-Bordeaux-Blend--750m">2017 Fortunati Fortivo Proprietary Red Bordeaux Blend Napa Valley</a></b> ~ $46 from Winery<br />
14.8% alcohol<br />
fortivo means strong</div>
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<img alt="" height="480" id="id_b152_be04_d74d_bb26" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/lc2lXvosGu5PD1PlBW1-gSPpbPiJ-Mk48YttePHfXL8dXRe_kvQZugsPptVLN9Y" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<img alt="" height="480" id="id_ec71_8f79_fd76_2c01" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Qrbfdw8aTCD1Lo03OJRlo9D1TVWXrvwpMwKCulzF_qR8oEZ-GxJLOyxMW7Ze68" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<img alt="" height="480" id="id_10d6_f55a_aba0_3a03" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6Sz2T-q64_5yZZVdeBbEBojil2dzdFGIbGcIlcn_2WGWXXvyKWOURLJLxiNUhfw" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-80670698617123661052019-12-05T15:27:00.000-08:002019-12-07T08:12:20.617-08:00Holiday TWITs and Annual Blanc Elephant Gift Exchange - 2019<b>Holiday TWITs and Annual Blanc Elephant Gift Exchange - 2019</b><br />
hosted by Mr Matt & Ms Abbie<br />
Thursday, December 5th, 2019<br />
<br />
TWITs should bring $20/pp to cover the cost of the wines.<br />
<i>AND </i><br />
1 wrapped gift per person for the Blanc Elephant Gift Exchange. Recommend gift is $15 or less, doesn't even have to be wine-related.<br />
<br />
<b>Theme:</b> Wines from Wineries affected or near the California Wildfires. These wines were not easy to get.<br />
<a data-external="true" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.mercurynews.com/2019/10/29/kincade-fires-destructive-toll-on-sonoma-wineries-vintners/&source=gmail&ust=1575661534904000&usg=AFQjCNEnuxuj78o4y2MPjchidgyOlGP_vg" href="https://www.mercurynews.com/2019/10/29/kincade-fires-destructive-toll-on-sonoma-wineries-vintners/" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: small;" target="_blank">https://www.mercurynews.com/<wbr></wbr>2019/10/29/kincade-fires-<wbr></wbr>destructive-toll-on-sonoma-<wbr></wbr>wineries-vintners/</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<b>Menu:</b><br />
Pot Roast w carrots, onions, and mushrooms<br />
Foie Gras<br />
<div>
Foie Gras Mousse</div>
<div>
Pork & Duck Pate<br />
GF crackers<br />
Sourdough bread bites<br />
Goat Cheese</div>
<div>
Cranberry Chutney<br />
Dubliner Aged Cheddar<br />
Crudites<br />
Olives<br />
Nuts</div>
<div>
Berry Tart</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" height="480" id="id_de4c_f2b2_3d0d_bdc" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/itzQN_2MKw0EHZL9XLA3rHmbkAvIR5MeiMyGHO6KfiDMeXAMvDAfPCAEEfg" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" height="480" id="id_6570_8404_a7f7_2e7" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/14rCL95BDAE6hVvodC3oo1DSH31xYTQ-_odFx6BQofjN8nxRXp3bc7WZtSc" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" height="480" id="id_8d0_1b97_3735_5d17" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/K4pKCHlgmzxGDFEUIiY3d0THZHF3m6f8TJgUo1X9VukoFw1ap_IsCnOykdk" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<b>Tasting Notes:</b><br />
Welcome Wine: <b>NV Gruet Blanc de Blancs Bubbly</b> - $12.99/bottle at Tower Liquor Store<br />
<br />
1) <b>2018 Alexander Valley Vineyards Gewurztraminer</b> ~$15/bottle @ Brookhaven Wines<br />
Organically grown 13.2% alcohol<br />
Gewurtz = Spice, Traminer is the varietal, notes of tobacco, fruit, apricots, dry, orange rind<br />
<br />
2) <b>2018 Alexander Valley Vineyards <a href="http://shop.avvwine.com/shop/p-385-2018-chardonnay.aspx">Chardonnay</a></b> ~ $20/bottle @ Brookhaven Wines<br />
99% Chardonnay 1% Viognier<br />
14% alcohol<br />
tastes French, stone fruits, long finish, stronger than French, not butter more margarine, "I can't believe it's not butter", not getting the apples described on the label<br />
<br />
3) <b>2018 Alexander Valley Vineyards <a href="http://shop.avvwine.com/shop/p-362-2018-dry-ros-of-sangiovese.aspx">Dry Rose of Sangioves</a>e </b>~ $16/bottle @ Brookhaven Wines<br />
100% Sangiovese<br />
13% alcohol<br />
smells of candy, honeydew melon, watermelon jolly rancher, viscous, pithy, fresh orange slice w bitter rind, this is actually what you want in a rose! the best rose I've had in a while<br />
<br />
4) <b>2017 Alexander Valley Vineyards <a href="http://shop.avvwine.com/shop/p-372-2017-cabernet-sauvignon.aspx" id="id_639d_ddf3_fa1d_2f63">Cabernet Sauvignon</a> </b>~ $25/bottle @ Brookhaven Wines<br />
Cabernet Sauvignon 83%, Merlot 12%, Malbec 1%, Cabernet Franc 3%, Petit Verdot 1%<br />
14% alcohol<br />
spicy, yummy, heavier, cherries, tannins, bitterness on finish, wormwood, malort like (Jepson's Malort from Cook County Illinois, wood notes, off a sea ship<br />
<br />
5) <b>2016 Michel-Schlumberger <a href="https://shop.michelschlumberger.com/xe/xe.asp?page=viewitem&p=NCSS162&cat=reds">Cabernet Sauvignon Benchland Wine Estate</a> </b>~ $40/bottle from the winery<br />
87% Cab Sauv, 12% Merlot, 1% Malbec<br />
14.2% alcohol<br />
red berries, dark fruit, leather, velvety on the tongue, damsons<br />
<br />
6) <b>2016 Chateau d’Oupia Minervois Languedoc-Roussillon </b>~$12/bottle</div>
<div>
13.5% alcohol</div>
<div>
ok ok it's not from California, but someone brought it to share, so we tasted it. Yum!</div>
Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-22421987021569517132019-11-10T08:35:00.001-08:002019-11-10T08:50:39.446-08:00TWITs own Ms Crystal won!!!TWITs own Ms Crystal won a wine tasting competition Saturday at the Decatur Wine Festival!<div>Courtesy of Sommify.<br><div><br></div><div>“ You had to pick two varieties. And countries they were from. I picked Albarino from Spain for the white. And I went with Nebbiolo from Italy for the red. Apparently I got 3 out of 4 correct. It was a Sangiovese”</div><div><br></div><div>“ I could taste prunes on the after taste and thought maybe I was wrong on the Nebbiolo but I didn't have a better guess. ”</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_39ad_63a8_a79e_c2c8" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Li6Slmhoh4R5DrE5a6AHHNaD-2gWzg21gE2kxZz4CL3OofXTI2L09eDg6NI" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 353px; height: auto;"><br><br><img id="id_94ee_9bab_4a28_3315" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZZmUI6ApmzekMB_2DYJ-A7l4Drpj3J_AUzzqmA-cWHj9R7n5cOyb49CtGQ" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 353px; height: auto;"><br><br><br></div></div>Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-40552208242396201122019-10-11T06:46:00.000-07:002019-10-14T08:25:09.880-07:00TWITs - We Aren't Done Yet - Red Wines from Washington State - October 12th, 2019<b>TWITs - "We Aren't Done Yet" - Red Wines from Washington State</b> - October 12th, 2019<br />
<br />
<b>Hosted by</b> Ms. Vicki<br />
<b>Menu:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Turkey Chili</li>
<li>Spicy Cornbread & Regular Cornbread</li>
<li>Baked Brie</li>
<li>Pate & Crackers</li>
<li>Manchego & Crackers</li>
<li>Foie Gras with Cranberry bread</li>
<li>Roasted Carrots with Balsamic glaze</li>
<li>Braised Oxtail Lasagna</li>
<li>Apple Pie Bites</li>
<li>Salted Chocolate Bites</li>
</ul>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" height="640" id="id_6821_21b9_d749_fa6f" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zosVFn5e8NJSHWaKjgrddCeMMmAByXlUsnBnVEIQ_GKWvlQ8-z0st7pO9t8" title="" tooltip="" width="480" /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" height="480" id="id_1d25_edaf_6662_9839" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/MDdkvSWriZkX1S79fx4aONk5w8JZUAEEkYy5cqvnfV-purmQevBXqZ-_HmI" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" height="480" id="id_31a0_dfcd_a952_d583" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/SGUIZpNwVBushWq3731qnwZ3AGfzwVB2v18VmH5rhnisjC1phSkylF3ug78" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" height="480" id="id_365b_7324_e9b0_373b" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/MhdpPrjVjPLeWwAxL9lr_owaPcJZl325cFHA_whS9537PKUH3dLE3fd6mbE" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<b>Tasting Notes: </b><br />
Welcome Wine: <b><a href="https://www.ste-michelle.com/our-wines/domaine-ste-michelle-brut">NV Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut - Columbia Valley</a></b> ~ $13<br />
Varietals: Blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier,<br />
12.3% alcohol<br />
<br />
1) <b><a href="http://www.andrewwill.com/home/wines/2016-columbia-valley-merlot">2016 Andrew Will Merlot - Vashon, Washington, Columbia Valley</a></b> - $38 @ Ansley Wine Merchant, 100% Merlot,<br />
14.5% alcohol<br />
powdered chocolate, herbacious, baking chocolate, smooth, rustic rough edges, touch of tannins, good starter wine, goes w lasagna perfectly, sage<br />
<br />
2) <b><a href="https://www.wine.com/product/j-bookwalter-readers-merlot-2014/319719">2014 J. Bookwalter "Readers" Merlot</a></b> ~ $20 @ Hinton Wine Store<br />
80% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc, 2% Syrah,<br />
14.8% alcohol,<br />
spicy, peppery, slides across the tongue, dark chocolate, good viscosity, pairs with cheese<br />
<br />
3) <b><a href="https://www.doublecanyon.com/product/2015-Double-Canyon-Vineyard-Cabernet-Sauvignon">2015 Double Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon</a></b> - $25 @ Toco Giant<br />
14% alcohol<br />
light, fruity, sweetness, fruits, bitter finish, cherries, chocolate, soft, needs food pairing<br />
<br />
4) <b><a href="https://www.winemag.com/buying-guide/sineann-2015-cabernet-sauvignon-columbia-valley-wa/">2015 Sineann Cabernet Sauvignon - Columbia Valley</a></b> ~$34 @ Ansley Wine Merchant<br />
14.2% alcohol<br />
green chile nose, licorice, toasted coconut, like sun tanning oil, sea oats, volcanic ash on after-taste, burnt, charred wood, graphite, minerality,<br />
<br />
5) <b><a href="https://www.aldi.us/en/grocery-goods/wine-beer/red-wines/red-wines-detail/ps/p/stormchaser-red-blend-1/">2017 Stormchaser - Wild Ride Red Blend</a> </b>- $7 @ Aldi's<br />
13.2% alcohol<br />
no nose, cherry pie, manure, bitter, luscious, soft<br />
<br />
6) <b><a href="http://hedgesfamilyestate.orderport.net/product-details/0137/2013-Descendants-Liegeois-Dupont-Red-Mountain-Syrah">2014 Hedges Family Estate - Descendants Leigeois Dupont - Red Mountain Syrah</a></b> - $28.99 @ Brookhaven Wines<br />
14.5% alcohol<br />
fruit forward, opens up with caramel chocolate, some spice, not too much, delicious, pairs with the turkey chili and cornbread<br />
<br />Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-179764270192889842019-08-10T05:39:00.000-07:002019-08-20T08:37:06.187-07:00TWITs (almost) Farewell Party - August 10th, 2019TWITs (almost) Farewell Party<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<img alt="" id="id_5ea7_9b26_1a36_956a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fRZrXyS-TOX51utjgJJZmT3dlHXzf1dUllHwWc9hvLtlyGCJahDqMTY0lTQ" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" id="id_f782_527d_76ab_cf96" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/vUDiMp8VNn2xhik0qj5yG5p_-1hjemdyYqZqi-NXHRCAeWqkF6hHS7kAQz8" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" id="id_9d75_bb9d_6a57_7547" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/BFAwaguPawjkOtoPVRx8VCDKjmnRL9heQYi31jWv5BudMEXKj40WpeDRX_M" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
<br />
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">MENU:</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Cheese & Honey </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Caprese Salad </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Ceviche </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Shrimp cocktail in filo cups </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Baked Tomatoes & Bell Peppers</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Winey Briny Pickles</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Stuffed mushrooms </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Tuscan Rubbed Pork Butt </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Strawberries dipped in chocolate </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">La Béte Noir (flourless chocolate cake)</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span class="s2"></span><br /></span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">WINES:</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">NV Gruet Brut 12%</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2016 Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs 12.3%</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2018 Lynmar Estate Rosé of Pinot Noir 14.1%</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">NV Albino Armani Extra Dry Rosé 11%</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2018 Winesmith Grenache Dry Rosé Santa Cruz Mountains Bates Ranch 12.9%</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2016 Anne Amie Amrita Cuvée Williamette Valley 12.7%</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2012 Ambyth Estate Syrah Paso Robles 12.8%</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2016 Tenuta Di Ghizzano “Il Ghizzano” 13.5%</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2012 Schweiger Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Spring mountain Napa 14.9%</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2013 Joel Gott “Gott 13” Cabernet Sauvignon 14.1%</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2016 Big Six Bourbon Barrel Aged Zinfandel 15.6%</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2016 Storyteller “Got Away” Cabernet Sauvignon 14.1%</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2017 White Hall Vineyards “Edichi” Monticello dessert wine 17%</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">PAIRINGS:</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Cheese & Honey paired with the </span>2016 Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs and 2018 Lynmar Estate Rosé of Pinot Noir</div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Ceviche paired with </span>NV Gruet Brut</div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Winey Briny Pickles paired with </span>NV Albino Armani Extra Dry Rosé</div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Stuffed mushrooms paired with </span>2018 Winesmith Grenache Dry Rosé</div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Shrimp cocktail in filo cups paired with </span>2016 Anne Amie Amrita Cuvée</div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Caprese Salad paired with </span>2012 Ambyth Estate Syrah Paso Robles</div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Baked Tomatoes & Bell Peppers paired with </span>2016 Tenuta Di Ghizzano “Il Ghizzano” </div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Tuscan Rubbed Pork Butt paired with </span>2012 Schweiger Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon</div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Strawberries dipped in chocolate paired with </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2013 Joel Gott “Gott 13” Cabernet Sauvignon and</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2016 Big Six Bourbon Barrel Aged Zinfandel</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">La Béte Noir (flourless chocolate cake) paired with </span>2017 White Hall Vineyards “Edichi” Monticello</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_8b03_46a7_dcef_87c5" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Udt-l15bkNceoGq33DX14wo8cx1zr9FQriP4-JI6pqrWcVQlhB-WYvbACIY" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
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Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-39615717346841490232019-03-16T13:02:00.000-07:002019-04-05T08:02:07.601-07:00The World of Alternative White Wines - Saturday March 16th, 2019<b>The World of Alternative White Wines - Saturday March 16th, 2019</b><br />
Hosted by Crissy & Steve<br />
<br />
We learned about white wines other than Sauvignon Blancs, Chardonnays, and Pinot Grigio.<br />
The wines were curated for the occasion. TWITs brough $20/pp to cover the cost of the wines.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" height="480" id="id_8a7d_fed4_7445_7c0d" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1uZbLRPLEhV-rZ1_BeONaT-61Et6emcJP" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>Tasting Notes:</b><br />
Welcome Wine: <b>NV Borrasca Cava Brut </b>~ $9<br />
12% alcohol, faint nose, dry, light, delicious.<br />
appetizers: strawberries chips, cheese bites, salamis, crackers.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" height="640" id="id_3153_50b2_e0c1_fe83" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1klcecYBjrG5I6U0VgHEMJASgt32Jtftk" title="" tooltip="" width="480" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1) <b>2017 Boutari Santorini Assyrtiko, Greek</b> ~ $20 @ Total Wine Brookhaven</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
13.5% alcohol, 100% Assyrtiko</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
very faint nose, not acidic, melon, thick viscosity, full bodied, very clean, great summer wine.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Food pairing: Salmon and mango with cream cheese on a cracker. DELICIOUS!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
2) <b>2016 Sandgrube 13 Chremisa, Gruner Veltliner, Austria</b> ~ $20 @ Total Wine</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
13.5% alcohol, Gruner Veltliner is the varietal</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
dry, high acid, very green, medium viscosity, </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Food Pairing: Homemade Mac n Cheese, garnish with tomatoes or onions and bacon. YUM!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
3) <b>2015 Le Salse Belisario, Verdicchio di Matelia, Italy</b> ~ $20 @ Whole Foods</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
12.5% alcohol, Verdicchio is the varietal</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
viscous, green, fresh, almost like a French Chardonnay, moldy cheese like bleu, briny, some bitterness, minerality, woody notes, a nice harshness, a little more grippyness (?) more jagged on your tongue.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Food Pairing: Pho with a dumpling - FanTASTIC! I would never have thought to pair an Italian wine with Pho but it works, the basil in the pho really compliments the wine!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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4) <b>2016 Marcel Servin Chablis, France</b> ~$25 @ CostCo</div>
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12.5% alcohol, Chardonnay is the varietal (yeah yeah we know we said no Chardonnay but just taste it!)</div>
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white burgundy, dried fruit, honey, low acidity, creamy mouth feel.</div>
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Food Pairing: Prosciutto wrapped asparagus</div>
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5) <b>2016 Susana Balbo Crios Torrontes, Argentina</b> ~$15 @ Total Wine</div>
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13/5% alcohol, Torrontes is the varietal</div>
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smells like almost bad wet laundry but not bad yet, funky, muscadine, spicy, pithy, Hing spice ?</div>
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Food Pairing: Jerk Shrimp. WOW!</div>
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6) <b>2016 Conundrum, California</b> ~ $20</div>
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13.2% alcohol, white blend (winery secret)</div>
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citrus notes, dry then sweet finish,</div>
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Food Pairing: Chick pea, Coconut, Basil salad. delicious!!!</div>
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7) <b>NV Skyriver Sweet Mead, Washington State </b>~ $18.99</div>
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10.5% alcohol</div>
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sweet honey wine, the sacred drink of the gods, descended from heaven then by bees, etc.</div>
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bubblegum nose, strawberry flavored lip gloss from Claire's.</div>
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Food Pairing: Tortilla Espanol (potato tortilla with berbere spice - an Ethiopian spice)</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Salmon and mango with cream cheese on a cracker</span></div>
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The Mac n Cheese with garnishes of Tomatoes or onions & bacon. YUM!</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Chick pea, Coconut, Basil salad </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Tortilla Espanol (potato tortilla with Berbere (an Ethiopian spice)</span></div>
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<img alt="" height="480" id="id_43d4_8a81_7259_7419" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1DRbKIJ73Yeapa9CGcDt6zPHnEnWQh3JB" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Prosciutto wrapped asparagus</span></div>
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<img alt="" height="640" id="id_d9cc_7531_e2b_173d" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=11KpKGnv1ti4jyYZi5_0y-hPo9mGwdae7" title="" tooltip="" width="480" /></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Jerk Shrimp</span></div>
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<img alt="" height="640" id="id_e234_ef4b_2473_4524" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1tYrueF_c1y-B4lcVisDA8seIeDAeGZeS" title="" tooltip="" width="480" /></div>
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All the yummy foods!</div>
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Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-15658157751415937122018-12-01T10:56:00.000-08:002018-12-13T08:05:23.243-08:00Wines of Portugal and Blanc Elephant Gift Exchange - December 1st - hosted by Abbie & Matt<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Wines of Portugal and Blanc Elephant Gift Exchange</b> - December 1st - hosted by Abbie & Matt</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>WHEN: </b> Saturday, December 1st - 7 pm</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>THEME: </b> Wines of Portugal</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><br /></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>BRING:</b> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">1) TWITs should bring $20/pp cash (or Venmo, Paypal, etc) to cover the cost of the wine. </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">AND </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">2) Each person attending should bring 1 wrapped gift under $15 for the Blanc Elephant Gift Exchange. The gift does not need to be wine related. We had some hilarious ones last year.</span></span><br />
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<b>Portugal is</b> a European country and part of the Iberian Peninsula. Portuguese wine is the result of traditions introduced to the region by ancient civilizations, such as the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Greeks, and mostly the Romans. Portugal started to export its wines to Rome during the Roman Empire. Modern exports developed with trade to England after the Methuen Treaty in 1703. From this commerce a wide variety of wines started to be grown in Portugal. </div>
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While there are 250 varietals in Portugal and many wine regions, we will focus on a sampling of these. Tonight we will taste wines from Vinho Verde, Alentejo, and Porto e Douro.</div>
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<b>The appellation system</b> of the Douro region was created nearly two hundred years before that of France, in order to protect its superior wines from inferior ones. The quality and great variety of wines in Portugal are due to noble castas, microclimates, soils and proper technology.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span></div>
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•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>QWPSR or VQPRD - Quality Wine Produced in a Specific Region (QWPSR) or VQPRD - Vinho de Qualidade Produzido em Região Demarcada</div>
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•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>These are the most protected wine and indicates a specific vineyard, such as Port Wine, Vinhos Verdes, and Alentejo Wines. These wines are labeled D.O.C. (Denominação de Origem Controlada) which secures a superior quality.</div>
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•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>IPR - Wines that have more regulations placed upon them but are not in a DOC region fall under the category of Indicação de Proveniência Regulamentada (IPR, Indication of Regulated Provenance)</div>
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•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Regional Wine - Vinho Regional Carries with it a specific region within Portugal.</div>
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•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Table Wines - Vinho de Mesa carries with it only the producer and the designation that it's from Portugal.</div>
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<b>Tasting Notes</b><br />
Welcome wine: <b>NV Broadbent Vinho Verde</b> $10.99 @ Brookhaven Wines<br />
WINEMAKERS: Bartholomew Broadbent in collaboration with partners in Portugal. The way to make a proper Vinho Verde is to suppress the malolactic fermentation and inject carbon dioxide at bottling to give the wine its characteristic spritz. We use pneumatic presses for gentle pressing to extract the free run juice and fermentation is around 16°C, which gives a slow fermentation that protects the character of the Loureiro grape. We use a special yeast QA21 which was developed in our vineyards and is now used all over the world. It gives a special character to our wines, which are produced at Quinta de Azevedo. Bursting with tongue-tingling, spritzy, lemon zest & white peaches<br />
GRAPES: 50% Loureiro, 40% Trajadura, & 10% Pedernã<br />
ALCOHOL: 9%<br />
REGION: Vinho Verde - This region is mainly in the Minho province and is in the extreme north-west of Portugal. Vinho Verde derived its name from the fact that the grapes used are 'green' meaning slightly under-ripe. Vinho Verde wines are now largely exported, and the most exported Portuguese wines after the Port Wine. The most popular variety in Portugal and abroad are the white wines, but there are also red and more rarely rosé wines.<br />
PAIRINGS: Creamy rice with hunks of cod or monkfish, or shrimp. White Vinho Verde is high in acidity, which makes it ideal for pairing with all forms of seafood, particularly when complimented by a rich sauce or a coating of fried breadcrumbs; pork and potato dishes would also work, etc.<br />
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2) <b>2014 Terra d'Alter Alfrocheiro (Alentejano)</b> $17.99 @ Brookhaven Wines<br />
WINEMAKER: Peter Bright<br />
GRAPES: Alfrocheiro is sometimes called the Pinot Noir of Portugal for its smooth, red cherry flavors and sometimes earthy character. Those attributes are found in this cherry-flavored wine with its bright acidity and fruitiness. The whole effect is spoiled by a green edge that shows tight tannins at the end.<br />
ALCOHOL: 14%<br />
REGION: Alentejo – This region’s wine is produced from grapes planted in vast vineyards extending over rolling plains under the sun which shines on the grapes and ripens them for the production. Some producers of this region still do wine in great potteries as in Roman times<br />
PAIRINGS: accompanies red meats, roast beef and grilled meats<br />
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3) <b>2013 Terra d’Alter Reserva Tinto</b> $21.99 @ Brookhaven Wines<br />
WINEMAKER: Peter Bright<br />
GRAPES: 30% Trincadeira, 30% Tinta Caiada, 20% Aragonez, 15% Alicante Bouschet and 5% Petit Verdot.<br />
ALCOHOL: 15%<br />
REGION: Produced from grapes from the highest region of Alto Alentejo<br />
PAIRINGS: Beef, Venison, etc.<br />
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4) <b>2013 Quinta Das Carvalhas Douro Tinto</b> $14.99 @ Total Wine<br />
WINEMAKER: Real Companhia Velha (the oldest wine company of Portugal)<br />
GRAPES: 60% Touriga Nacional, 20% Touriga Franca, 20% Tinta Roriz (Single Estate Varietals, vines are post-phylloxera and a century old). Decant before drinking<br />
ALCOHOL: 14%<br />
REGION: Douro (left bank of the Douro River, in Pinhao)<br />
PAIRINGS: Cold cuts, cheeses<br />
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5) <b>NV Porto Kopke Fine Tawny Port</b> $19.99 @ Brookhaven Wines</div>
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WINEMAKER: Pedro Sa, Kopke existed even before there was a Demarcated Region of the Douro. Established in 1638, the oldest Port wine house built an impeccable reputation based on the highest quality. A leader in the production of Port Tawny Colheita wines, including white port, Kopke has a remarkable range of special category Ports, also producing excellent DOC Douro wines.</div>
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GRAPES: Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, Tinto Cão, Touriga Franca</div>
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ALCOHOL: 19.5% </div>
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REGION: Douro. Port wine vines need to grow in schist rich soil and require a specific micro-climate. It is produced through a unique vinification method. The red varietals are the most common. The wine is produced in the beautiful landscape of the Douro Valley in Alto Douro region, a region that is classified as World Heritage by UNESCO. The wine is exported from the city of Porto, thus acquiring the name Porto (or "Port" in English-speaking countries). There are several varieties of Port wine: some of the most popular are the Tawny, White, Ruby, and Late Bottled Vintage (L.B.V.).</div>
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PAIRINGS: blue cheeses, desserts with caramel, coffee, apricots and dried fruits. caramelized nuts, tiramisu, hazelnut meringue pie and brie cheese.</div>
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To pair with the Port (dried fruits, buttermilk blue cheese)</div>
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Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-65903907474623943492018-11-17T10:49:00.000-08:002018-11-26T12:10:14.399-08:00Bring Your Favorite Holiday Wine - November 17th - Hosted by Kathy & Jamie<br />
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<span style="font-size: 12px;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Bring Your Favorite Holiday Wine - November 17th - Hosted by Kathy & Jamie</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>WHEN: </b> Saturday, November 17th - 7 pm</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>THEME: </b> Bring your favorite Holiday Wine - aka <b>TWITsGiving!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our hosts provided a smorgasboard of food including crudites, fromages, charcuterie, crackers, that amazing BLT dip, a turkey, cranberry sauce, baked brie, chex mix, brussel sprouts, roasted veggies, quiches, chocolates, tarts, and fruits.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This was a great way to discover some new wines that we could serve/drink during the holidays. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>BRING:</b> TWITs should bring 1 bottle of their favorite holiday wine (could be for any winter holiday, as we are approaching that time of year), within the suggested price range - $20/bottle for singles, up to $40/bottle for couples.</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">TASTING NOTES:</b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">1) Welcome Cocktail: Prosecco, cranberry juice, raspberries, w/a mint garnish.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">2) <b>NV Deutz Champagne Brut Classic </b> - $40 @ Greenes on Ponce</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">12% alcohol</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">sparkling, yummy, reminds me of Schramsberg, I love it! Exactly what you want with a Champagne. This was selected by Alexis, he says his family drinks it every year in France for the holidays.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">3) <b><a href="https://www.gloriaferrer.com/cms/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/2008-Royal-Cuvee-tech-sheet.pdf">2009 Gloria Ferrer Royal Cuvee Brut</a> </b>- $37 @ wine club direct</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">12.5% alcohol</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">67% Pinot Noir, 33% Chardonnay<b> </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">slightly funkier nose, delightful, crisp, green apple, honey, stone fruit, citrus, black cherry, bright acid, long finish with meyer lemon zest.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">4) <b><a href="https://www.skurnik.com/sku/franciacorta-brut-rose-radijan-ronco-calino/">NV Franciacorta Ronco Calino 'Radijan' Brut Rose</a> </b>- $34 @ Savi Provisions</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">13% alcohol</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This is my JAM!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">5) <b>2017 Clos de la Roilette Beaujolais </b>- $25 @ Brookhaven Wines</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">13% alcohol</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">100% Gamay</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">French! "Nothing screams Fall like a Beaujolais!" it's a turkey wine!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">6) <b>2016 Stoller Oregon Pinot Noir </b>- $27 @ Wahoo Wines</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">13.5% alcohol, Dundee Oregon</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">100% Pinot Noir</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Guessing Pinot Noir, red fruits, strawberry, lingering finish, delicious</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">7) <b>2015 Gloria Ferrer Carneros Estates Pinot Noir </b>- $50 @ winery direct</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">13.9% alcohol 100% Pinot Noir</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">jammy, peppery, olive brine, white pepper, cinnamon, a little bit o'cherry on the nose, very slight fireball on the end, Gravel Knob vineyard (RH had a funny joke about the meaning of Knob where he's from).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">8) <b>2010 David Coffaro Zinfandel </b>- $20 bought from a friend's cellar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">15.9% alcohol, Russian River Valley</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">75% Zinfandel, 25% Petite Sirah</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">plum and spice (baking spices not pepper), cinnamon, winter spice, almost raisiny, "Imma chew on this one!" cola on the end.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">9) <b>2014 Yoakim Bridge Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley </b>- $20 bought from a friend's cellar. 14.8% alcohol</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">more alcohol, heat on it, earthy, chewy, pepper bomb, more fruit, love it!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">10) <b>2016 Fortunati Napa Zinfandel </b>- $38ish @ wine club direct</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">15.5% alcohol</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">light red, berries, that berries, gravel, dust, gravelly knobs (ha ha), brambly</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
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Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-11222360884850154212018-10-20T08:19:00.000-07:002018-10-25T14:39:47.339-07:00Autumn Reds - October 20th, 2018 - hosted by Rachel & Chris<b>Autumn Reds </b>- hosted by Rachel & Chris<br>
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<b>When:</b> Saturday, October 20th, 7pm<br>
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<b>Bring:</b> TWITs should bring 1 bottle of red wine that reminds them of Autumn. within the suggested price range - $20/bottle for singles, up to $40/bottle for couples.<br>
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<b>Tasting Notes:</b><br>
Welcome Wine: <b>2014 La Crema Chardonnay</b> ~ $17 @ Total Wine<br>
13.5% alcohol<br>
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1) <b>2016 Domaine Loubejic Pinot Noir</b> (Selection Barriques, Dundee, Oregon) - $23.99 @ Total Wine<br>
13.8% alcohol<br>
peppery nose, cherries, pepper bomb, sweet finish, white pepper, red fruits, lighter, I guessed pinot noir, lighter wine, medium body, "Chaddy" guesses New World.<br>
We were both right.<br>
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2) <b>2012 Chalk Hill Pinot Noir </b>- $40 @ Citi Wine and Spirits<br>
14.5% alcohol<br>
grapey, fruity, raspberry nose, richer, darker red fruits, currants, pepper finish,<br>
I guessed it was a Trader Joes wine since it was so jammy, I was incorrect.<br>
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3) <b>2015 Freak Show Cabernet Sauvignon </b>(Lodi, CA)<b> </b> - $14.99 @ Trader Joes<br>
14.5% alcohol<br>
cassis, sweeter nose, jammy, jam jar, raspberry, dry finish, got grip, I like it better than the last one, inky, almost a port-like finish, my fave so far,<br>
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4) <b>2014 Michel-Schlumberger Cabernet Sauvignon </b>(Dry Creek Valley) ~ $17 (due to close out purchase from winery if we purchased a case).<br>
jammy, leather, olive brine, all the right things going on, caramel, bitter/briny finish, a hint of taint, not much on the nose, weird odor, not quite wet cardboard, tastes better than it smells, bell pepper, probably needs food, "No Chaddity"<div><a href="https://shop.michelschlumberger.com/xe/xe.asp?page=viewitem&p=CSSA142&cat=reds">https://shop.michelschlumberger.com/xe/xe.asp?page=viewitem&p=CSSA142&cat=reds</a> <br>
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5) <b>2016 Capitel della Crosara Valpolicella Ripasso </b>(Verona, Italy) - $19.99 @ Total Wine<br>
14% alcohol<br>
rich, pepper, earthy, suede, top grain, buttery, nice finish, "that's what she said", well balanced, yummy, rich<br>
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6) <b>2015 Tinazzi Tenuta Valleselle Aureum Amarone Acinum </b>- $30 @ CostCo<br>
15% alcohol<br>
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We decanted this one. alcohol nose, licorice, surprisingly faint, very rich, I want a steak right now, cherry on cherry, dense, shiraz-like, thicc, good.<br>
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</div>Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-80334673594124927222018-08-23T09:43:00.000-07:002018-08-29T12:13:56.694-07:00TWITs Chardonnay Showdown - August 23rd, 2018 - hosted by Mr. Matt & Ms. Abbie<b>TWITs Chardonnay Showdown</b> - August 23rd, 2018 - hosted by Mr. Matt & Ms. Abbie<br />
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Finally we have a TWITs plan for August. Hope you can make it. We will be doing our usual blind tasting method, and tasting Chardonnays from various regions in the world.<br />
<i><b>NOTE: </b>we will be capping attendance at 16 total people, so that we have enough wine for everyone. </i><br />
<i>RSVP via email to reserve your spot.</i><br />
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<b>WHEN: </b> Thursday, August 23rd, 2018 - 7:30pm ET<br />
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<b>THEME:</b> Chardonnay Showdown - we will do our usual blind tasting method<br />
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<b>BRING:</b> TWITs should bring 1 bottle of Chardonnay wine - a white wine varietal - (from any region in the world) within the suggested price range - $20/bottle for singles, up to $40/bottle for couples<br />
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<b>Chardonnay</b> is a green-skinned grape variety used in the production of white wine. The variety originated in the Burgundy wine region of eastern France, but is now grown wherever wine is produced, from England to New Zealand. For new and developing wine regions, growing Chardonnay is seen as a "rite of passage" and an easy entry into the international wine market.<br />
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The Chardonnay grape itself is neutral, with many of the flavors commonly associated with the wine being derived from such influences as terroir and oak. It is vinified in many different styles, from the lean, crisply mineral wines of Chablis, France, to New World wines with oak and tropical fruit flavors. In cool climates (such as Chablis and the Carneros AVA of California), Chardonnay wine tends to be medium to light body with noticeable acidity and flavors of green plum, apple, and pear. In warmer locations (such as the Adelaide Hills and Mornington Peninsula in Australia and Gisborne and Marlborough region of New Zealand), the flavors become more citrus, peach, and melon, while in very warm locations (such as the Central Coast AVA of California), more fig and tropical fruit notes such as banana and mango come out. Wines that have gone through malolactic fermentation tend to have softer acidity and fruit flavors with buttery mouthfeel and hazelnut notes.<br />
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Chardonnay is an important component of many sparkling wines around the world, including Champagne and Franciacorta in Italy.<br />
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Chardonnay's popularity peaked in the late 1980s, then gave way to a backlash among those wine connoisseurs who saw the grape as a leading negative component of the globalization of wine. Nonetheless, it is one of the most widely planted grape varieties, with 210,000 hectares (520,000 acres) worldwide, second only to Airén among white wine grapes and fifth among all wine grapes.<br />
Source: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chardonnay">Wikipedia</a><br />
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<b><u>Tasting Notes:</u></b><br />
<b>Welcome Wine:</b> <b>2016 Binyamina Yogev Chardonnay/Sauvignon Blanc</b> - $19.99 @ Total Wine<br />
13.5% alcohol. Blend of 60% Chardonnay & 40% Sauvignon Blanc<br />
"In Hebrew, Yogev means farmer, toiler of the soil. This label reflects the winegrower’s contribution to the production of quality wines. Yogev wines are aged in used barrels in order to preserve the natural qualities of the winegrowers’ fruit. The chardonnay forms a foundation of luxurious pear and tropical fruit, and the Sauvignon Blanc contributes herb and lemongrass notes plus a crackling acidity. In cooler months, Binyamina Yogev Chardonnay/Sauvignon Blanc is equally delicious served with cheese fondue or roast chicken."<br />
TWITs Notes: has viscosity, pungent earthy aroma, dark, rich, color is pale lemonade, a little green, punch bubble gum nose, acidic, good starter wine, but meh.<br />
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1) <b>2016 Domaine Chene Macon-Milly-Lamartine</b> - $16.99 @ WTSO<br />
13% alcohol<br />
tropical fruit, passion fruit, citrus, tasty, like it, acidic, sauv blanc not chardonnay flavors, honeysuckle, sticky fruit, apricot, rich, oaked, creamy, pineapple, the "NOT" Chardonnay, peachy, stone fruit, sticky, not very acidic to some, Guesses: Hawaii, Australia<br />
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2) <b>2013 Domaine Gerard Tremblay Chablis Grand Cru "Vaudesir"</b> ~ $50 @ Brookhaven Wines<br />
13% alcohol<br />
flowers, hay taste, pepper, mild, lemons, tart wine, sweet tarts, it has grip, lemon bar, sawdust nose, fuzzy tongue, needs something salty or chunky to pair with, oysters w/salinity would be nice, chalky, limestone, guesses: coastal<br />
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3) <b>NV Simply Naked Unoaked Chardonnay</b> - $11.99 Buford Hwy Farmers Market<br />
13.5% alcohol<br />
pale color, light perfume, burst of flavor, butterscotch, banana creme, viscous, lemon meringue, salinity, finish drops off, apple<br />
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4) <b>2015 Yonah Mountain (Georgia) Estate Chardonnay</b> ~ $40 from winery<br />
13.2% alcohol<br />
roast beef nose, mushrooms, meaty, funky, roasted nuts, syrupy like a Tokaji, wet dog, wet cardboard, pairs with blue cheese, Riesling-like, petrol nose, pair with roast chicken w mushrooms, young vintage, all kinds of edges. Guesses: South America<br />
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5) <b>2015 Benedicte & Stephane Tissot Arbois Les Graviers Chardonnay, Jura, France</b> ~ $50 @ Perrines<br />
14% alcohol<br />
smoky, honey, thicc (with 2 c's), agave, burnt edge, tar finish, oxidated, so burnt, hazelnuts, burnt nuts, rosemary, caramel palate, earthy, briny, more minerality & acidity, more freshness than the last one, warm, a gringo with cajones, winter white<br />
Guesses; Lodi? Italy?<br />
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6) <b>2014 Middleton Family Wines - Inconceivable Chardonnay "Queen of Tides" Santa Barbara County</b> ~ $20 @ Ansley Wine Merchant<br />
14.1% alcohol<br />
toasty bread, well-balanced, classic chardonnay,<br />
Guesses: California? Pouilly Fuisse?<br />
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7) <b>2016 Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin Chablis</b> - $31.99 @ Toco Giant<br />
12.5% alcohol<br />
classic chardonnay, tangy, dried fruit salad, stone fruit, urine, chalky, lemon and lime<br />
Guesses: standard California Chardonnay?<br />
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8) <b>2016 Banshee Rickshaw Chardonnay</b> ~ $16.99 @ Hop City<br />
13.5% alcohol<br />
pork, meat, savory, ramen, dry, Tahitian vanilla, oysters<br />
Guesses: Pic-Poul?<br />
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9) <b>2016 Leese & Fitch Chardonnay</b> ~ $12 @ Buford Hwy Farmers Market<br />
13.5% alcohol<br />
pale nose, apricot, citrus, crisp, beach friendly, starter wine, too light, not too oaky, SOLID.<br />
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10) <b>2016 Game of Thrones Chardonnay</b> - $18.99 @ DeKalb Famers Market<br />
13.5% alcohol<br />
herbaceous, green, kissed by angels, very pleasant, creamy & buttery, dragons, Winter is Coming, warm<br />
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11) <b>2015 Keefer Ranch Failla Chardonnay</b> - $44.95 @ Brookhaven Wines<br />
13.8% alcohol<br />
kissed by ALL the angels, pork belly, celery root nose, good viscosity, citrus, eagles freedom, red white and blue, mature, stone fruits, smells like crepes, tastes like French<br />
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Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-89619075901267100672018-08-22T05:52:00.000-07:002018-08-28T11:59:41.360-07:00Clement Rhum tasting at SOS Tiki Bar<div style="text-align: center;">
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<img alt="" id="id_8924_fc40_a4b4_2b84" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgImGqpl1MpXM87p1hQhCZiQ7lGxJoZEWhtWtMWatnqbODaIuMWOlIkFH_DbjU7GWo8Sl776iZRUxUgGx8clP-YQ3hyphenhyphennmQuU07_2lYPzOIkYyeghJJhmfQDKatnxhoPermSMi8ZRN6rqR0X/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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They provided the Space Force complimentary.</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_5f5c_5f58_da91_2f14" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--X44RNiLvJE/W4VFhx3h0cI/AAAAAAAACQU/2oirYfCKwJcnBOec1aVafTek40wNPu3mwCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_bd21_f857_9ef9_bff4" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqqK8LkHhyphenhyphenV_SA-dPedPb8xw-TJUUQ6DV9EGJXySSS_BXEVc7L0lhOLMvZfeUJXSSSjVnLK19i_Lpf1sNEh2C9dWCybEyEUALvwjlqnse0C6bHGgGbYnNAs2Y12IMKlt2QO7bsA4Wmif_A/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_8ec_6f2e_fff0_1d2e" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimKcAEqU5aWQ7VznH4_VCU6RkWGnj42Kby52yn778p3xf4eeA4r3iHhOi0VhVmmQkImSHNw-o7dKH6SQViTG6NIfvGfPzSJyQ3dGxJ3-ov5ZKJ4W9MJULjs3QR93dAMfcCAsJ5XuKf5YjS/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_c5e9_7508_2e63_c8a5" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_XqbWiRpqzBLC_MVKjfEfJB5M2ZMeSWNPA2zQW4RPL2iPf4EmYWtdIQmULgjp0zUZE8sY9EElVtqmZXuTzC8n0_eJNTdwJoiIHxa8zf1Bl9drIWIIWAukcldE_QABl63TWq09TcEwzFub/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_5cde_eb2f_47ae_a093" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C_aedS42Rwg/W4VFkpdHpLI/AAAAAAAACQk/cnE76fQVlrgl9fggWnKGgQ6nxsWTFxbhgCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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With Ryan Pines of Clement Rhum</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_8b37_a1da_304_b90a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-de8l6LHfQYo/W4VFk4QVW7I/AAAAAAAACQo/pa5D5uNBNuIApIh7TIH28Ewvo4RkzhC6gCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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making the Ti'Punch</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_3774_da10_81a4_b322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3wn94olNkGzT_VKnZp9r8wOPG3qQyLCS4ofY21GrZkHcsCGCwCaie_a844pD3rYp_eiV9KjiN7MvI53TcX3iAECuDLIz24iSPHYwFZlBQnwhYaxvCXZM5pupPsUabca981paPVI3Vsox7/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<img alt="" height="640" id="id_99f1_d39d_4ddd_ce4f" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XfVfUJDvs6w/W4VF6CCk3oI/AAAAAAAACRI/DDII9u15DZwZMP6P4etH4qH1q_yVjpdOgCHMYCw/s640/%255BUNSET%255D" title="" tooltip="" width="480" /></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_e514_cb92_5ed4_9923" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WSkjrH25z7U/W4VF6HNkjxI/AAAAAAAACRM/8nGEe1YdpvoB6bToj8LlTD4ZLtYjITnxACHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_c83_1b4e_c2e_41cc" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDq6eVvy7KDsfMGkOUg0v25E3YgIO_Sdh9gLHPe9xm3XHlX3bv-PctNKvr_vXn8qM7yYxkLrY_l4HxhhdwXBM1ayZNY_tXWi5sHmRwk9kX5NUc2LtbwW-gMViYq1nXwgdAe1URqSF2Z98p/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-24388821483515756632018-08-07T05:48:00.000-07:002018-08-28T12:03:21.356-07:00SelectioNaturel Tasting w Eric Brown at Vinoteca <div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><a href="http://www.selectionaturel.com/">SelectioNaturel</a> tasting w Eric Brown</b></div>
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<b style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;">@ <a href="https://www.shopvinoteca.com/">Vinoteca </a></b></div>
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<img alt="" height="480" id="id_70e3_509c_b3b4_9f02" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpfOp3N5bKmdm5e76leLbByJ-HjL4WXZqdeOBPOUEhmAuypaSOai4MrZSJwCGrF2mKNdmyrzZjNxZb_4m7nGvxjo-H3bWBFplmFTJXOtres7lUrkRBrIJ65Dc8XyVIe4Q-BGD5-Deufz2L/s640/%255BUNSET%255D" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_1dc5_74fb_fcd1_ec84" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2qAIqG1yde4/W4VErz5AXnI/AAAAAAAACPc/vtFJV2f6_5QANTPtWyoYIoICEvaCjJCFACHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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Eric & Matt</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_2a9b_aaf6_2963_256c" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOfVXfzRQkD3ebGWFvFb5zC3GYRTfk7ylUoLMu7L2cZhN6_Zzwv2Ky6mfUuLPYRGE8VmqGGcYAwZdnU-CAb6l8f5rjoY0aBpifD6RsMr2W7k5iLeL8-UXRRV2fxlDoh9fMRdUUKw9svpx/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_3a92_7e8d_948a_1029" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-15AwuPgZBa8/W4VEsTEiePI/AAAAAAAACPk/97MTM3gXURMbyhPSPjaadf1Z21HR6wnBgCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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a Friend & Susan (one of our TWITs)</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_eca_911a_8fe8_bf04" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9TAF8qrMxgg/W4VEsTsmB9I/AAAAAAAACPg/sq2hgjawoII5-VIJtdLfIjlAdMCI7nfWwCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_39a7_2782_9180_13cc" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-XctvTElpd-XgrkzHj5CIwQDPFJ8qPvT1D6atXDPTf7pT8qTubX7S6l8pu8Bnn0NpSStKd4eSbJYn-42tSO723DienyansbMNnS93JqMXiYOSTJtmAgYXwAsuyHXkggfCsyfEXhA2H1sF/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<img alt="" height="640" id="id_94f5_cea8_5d0_605b" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kEH9Jf_Rk0c/W4VEtMbvARI/AAAAAAAACPo/FzAbrQZpaBYFO9ecMcokrmnjE1pN2uJzwCHMYCw/s640/%255BUNSET%255D" title="" tooltip="" width="480" /></div>
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<div style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 12px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b><a href="http://www.selectionaturel.com/">SelectioNaturel</a> tasting w Eric Brown: </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>NV Cellario È Bianco! Vino Bianco (1 Liter) (2017)</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 12px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Vinified in stainless steel, this blend of organically farmed Arneis from Roero with a dash of Muscat, is a lively white with enough flavors of stone fruit, citrus, and minerality to satisfy just about all white wine drinkers. The fresh acidity makes it a highly versatile white and the one liter bottle under crown cap pretty much of makes it the perfect pool/patio wine!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>NV Cellario È Grino! Vino Rosso (1 Liter) (2017)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">This organic Italian guzzler is made of 100% Grignolino vinified in cement tank by Dolcetto masters, Fausto & Cinzia Cellario. Grignolino is a native Piedmont grape that yields lighthearted, fruity, ruby-colored reds. This juicy summer red is perfect for fans of Beaujolais/Gamay, Poulsard from the Jura and other northern Italian light reds like Schiava...also in one liter bottle under crown cap!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>NV Furlani Rosato Frizzante Trento</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Sparkling rosé (Pet-Nat) made from traditional Trentino grapes including Pinot Nero and spontaneously fermented in cement before racking into 54-liter demijohns for about seven months. It is bottled with a bit of the remaining residual sugar leftover from the shutdown of Initial fermentation with the arrival of winter temperatures, allowing for bottle re-fermentation. The whole process is done without any temperature control or sulfur additions and the wine is not fined or disgorged. These folks make some of the best sparkling wines in Italy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>2017 Lamoresca 'Nerocapitano' Terre Siciliane</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Nerocapitano is the local name for Frappato and Filippo’s vines are surrounded by wild mint, oregano, dill, and a 300 year old carob tree, all of which seem to find its way into the wine via wonderful aromatic lift. The wine is made from some 40 year old Frappato vines and others that were planted in 2005 from cuttings that came from COS in Vittoria. The fruit is hand harvest in mid-September through mid-October. Spontaneous fermentation takes place in plastic “tini” without temperature control, with maceration on the skins for four days and natural malolactic fermentation before maturing in cement vats for twelve months.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>2016 Cantina Ribelà ‘Rosso’ Lazio </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">This red is made from 100% Cesanese, one of the rediscovered red grapes in central Italy. It comes from Lazio—the wine region of Rome, and is farmed biodynamically in a "secret garden" vineyard in Frascati on sandy, volcanic soil with southern exposure. Chiara Bianchi and Daniele Presutti are young growers, both Roman born and raised, that made their first vintage in 2014, Chiara (a former philosophy professor) and Daniele (a former architect) are making wines with real balance, freshness with incredible texture. The Rosso is fermented spontaneously in stainless steel vats and macerated on the skins for ten days before six months of aging in resin (fiberglass) tank.</span></div>
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Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-91568482372909394222018-06-22T09:01:00.000-07:002018-06-28T08:14:43.502-07:00TWITs Pool Party & Cookout - June 22nd - hosted by Ms. Crystal<b>TWITs Pool Party & Cookout -</b> June 22nd - hosted by Ms. Crystal<br />
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<b>WHEN:</b> Friday, June 22nd, 2018 - 7:00 PM<br />
<b>THEME:</b> Pool Party & Cookout <i>NOTE: we will be capping attendance again</i><br />
<b>BRING: </b><br />
1) A bottle of wine to pair with the food on the menu - within our usual suggested pricing.<br />
2) Your swimsuit and a towel - if you are swimming<br />
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<b><u>Menu:</u></b><br />
Beef burgers with Gruyere Cheese & Arugula<br />
3 Bean Salad<br />
Shrimp & Tilapia Ceviche<br />
Fruit Tart<br />
Ice Cream Cones<br />
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<b><i>Well we got rained out, but it was still a fun night. Tasting notes and photos below.</i></b><br />
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<b><u>Tasting Notes:</u></b><br />
Welcome Wines: We had White Sangria & Red Sangria (homemade)<br />
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1) <b>NV Union Wine Co. Underwood Rose Bubbles</b> - $6.99/can @ Brookhaven Wines<br />
Varietal Unknown. 11% alcohol<br />
Tasting Notes: Wild strawberry, fruit cocktail, and tart cherry<br />
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2) <b>2016 Domaine Franck Besson Rose Granit</b> - $11.99 @ Brookhaven Wines<br />
100% Gamay, 12.5% alcohol<br />
Tasting Notes: lively, delicious, dry, bubbly,<br />
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3) <b>2017 Francis Ford Coppola Sofia Brut Rose</b> ~ $18 @ Total Wine<br />
50% Pinot Noir, 50% Chardonnay, 12% alcohol<br />
Tasting Notes:<br />
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4) <b>NV Union Wine Co. Underwood Rose</b> - $6.99/can @ Brookhaven Wines<br />
Varietal Unknown. 12% alcohol<br />
Tasting Notes: Strawberry, Peach, Watermelon<br />
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5) <b>2017 Chateau Paradis Coteaux d'ain en Provence Rose </b>~ $13.99<br />
90% Cabernet, 10% Shiraz/Syrah, 12% alcohol<br />
Tasting Notes: crisp, dry, refreshing<br />
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6) <b>2014 Napa Cellars Zinfandel</b> - $19.99 Toco Giant<br />
100% Zinfandel, 14% alcohol<br />
Tasting Notes: bright aromas of fresh blackberries, tart cherry and hints of black tea. The aromas lead to lush flavors of ripe jam with notes of mocha, spice and sweet notes of oak on the finish. This wine is medium-bodied with bright acidity and a smooth, juicy and lasting mouthfeel. Winemaker Joe Shirley recommends pairing this wine with barbequed ribs or a well-seasoned steak topped with fresh basil<br />
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7) <b>2014 Banshee Pinot Noir Sonoma</b> ~ $23.99<br />
100% Pinot Noir, 13.6% alchol<br />
a beautiful balance between both red and blue fruits, notably Bing cherry and Asian plums. Interwoven with the fruit characteristics are coastal moss, fresh wild mushrooms, and spice. The wine has good carry-through from front to finish, with lively acidity to keep it light on its feet.<br />
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<img alt="" height="480" id="id_44c2_258d_8d8c_4620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0c_lZ7Cbh06zQnb999gcfTx7Hdiooejkp5Kt3LTymHbP2jY8DQdX4DGAWAS51IqDGoqUNCMnwM6ZW55Fo8WNS-ED925olP6q3GCAoeH6Ln5RSBlklLmuKznBtUn1BwYScx543IP4TyZQN/s640/%255BUNSET%255D" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<img alt="" height="480" id="id_e233_932c_e4b3_e5e5" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_UUIHP6LqzE/WzKXPE9PKFI/AAAAAAAACN8/6YX5tOwiyRMSuHv6qBxcacyXZMI8tiMVACHMYCw/s640/%255BUNSET%255D" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<img alt="" height="480" id="id_359_99f9_7b91_800d" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HB8tEfDdlhs/WzKXPLfHbnI/AAAAAAAACOA/p1b0ylwRMY8-8lnO1xwe-9kDVEwEuFq9ACHMYCw/s640/%255BUNSET%255D" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<img alt="" height="480" id="id_aa1_4d11_21ce_dc98" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wa-gsFbijpU/WzKXPnlADkI/AAAAAAAACOI/9J5yFnDewXAMhtG9HGdg0mckO60Udr_GwCHMYCw/s640/%255BUNSET%255D" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /><br />
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<img alt="" height="640" id="id_8854_df5_585b_f786" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P-sojR_wixg/WzKXQUQ_6JI/AAAAAAAACOM/V1FLy4xFdYEK86MR-PJDAWx2JefJQKXawCHMYCw/s640/%255BUNSET%255D" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<img alt="" height="480" id="id_d9c7_77de_19db_787c" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hbfJbNfFdqE/WzKXQlLv7VI/AAAAAAAACOU/a37pQsS-I7Id6z_j-X3UWIGqWsfC4oligCHMYCw/s640/%255BUNSET%255D" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<br />Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-54645192334835923852018-05-12T13:09:00.000-07:002018-05-15T11:21:51.896-07:00TWITs May 2018 Event - hosted by Mr. Chad and Ms. Christy<b>TWITs May 12, 2018 - hosted by Mr. Chad and Ms. Christy</b><br />
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<b>Theme: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judgment_of_Paris_(wine)">Judgement of Paris</a></b><br />
<b>Bring: </b>Money to pay for the wine<br />
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<br />
Our hosts did their best to match a sampling of the wines from the same winemaker or winery;<br />
or if this was not otherwise possible, the same terroir for our tasting tonight.<br />
<br />
<b>Food:</b> The food was catered by Chef Raymond Griffin of <a href="https://theartofcuisinecatering.com/">Art of Cuisine Catering</a>. We dined on tuna tartare with ginger and guacamole, assorted cheeses and fruits, oysters Rockefeller, brie & berry mini puff pastry, peach & goat cheese tarts, black olive tapanade with sun dried tomatoes on French bread, dark and white chocolate, smoked salmon mousse bruschetta, charcuterie, melon wrapped proscuitto, marcona almonds, caramels, yummmmmmy!<br />
<br />
<b>Tasting Notes:</b><br />
In the order we tasted them in with tasting notes:<br />
<br />
WELCOME WINE (not part of the Judgement of Paris):<br />
<b>Schramsberg Blanc de Noirs</b> ~ $35 @ Total Wine<br />
12.8% alcohol<br />
<br />
<b>WHITE WINES</b><br />
1) <b>2011 Domaine Jean Monnier & Fils Mersault-Charmes</b> - $74<br />
Aromatic, oak, golden apple, peaches, CA, viscosity, viscous, apricots, green apricot, Bojangles Biscuit, new world, pith, stone fruit, nuts, toasted almonds, poignant, I like it a lot, good with the oysters.<br />
<br />
2) <b>2015 Premier Cru Domaine Gerard Thomas & Filles Puligny-Montrache</b>t - $65<br />
stone fruit, light, herbacious, viscous, yellow green, straw, minerality, guessing French, old world, white flowers, tastes different than it smells, lemon, lime, sprite, burgundy style, Chateau Montrechet guess. good guess!<br />
<br />
3) <b>2014 Freemark Abbey Chardonnay</b> - $31<br />
biscuits, pastry, flirt with no plans, minerality, golden luscious, weak on the palate, sweet then evaporates, buttery, cream, sugar, marshmallow, viscous, apple, high acidity, not dry, light sugar, fun wine, a carnival, new world, lemon meringue pie, Chateau Montelena guess?<br />
<br />
4) <b>2015 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay</b> - $50<br />
MY FAVE (Abbie)<br />
peach, peach compote, stone fruits, pith, cherries, chocolate, honey, coffee, weird for a white wine, sweet flowery garden, loverly, dessert wine, high alcohol, pith-love, melon, I like the way it feels going down.<br />
<br />
<b>RED WINES</b> - note these were decanted in advance of the tasting.<br />
5) <b>2014 Chateau Leoville Las Cases Saint Julien-Medoc</b> - $160<br />
butter, cherries, plum, leather, eyes roll back in my head it's smells so good! oh that mouth is disappointing, thyme, rosemary, cinnamon, mind-f*ck, mushrooms, love the nose but the palate is weird, something is off, tart palate, unripe palate, undeveloped, not quite right, has grip, velvet, cranberries, its like 11am misty morning in Napa Valley, a cheating husband, when you're going down on a guy and it's a little small, unsatisfying palate,<br />
<br />
6) <b>2015 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon</b> - $49<br />
musty, mushrooms, age, green, not so French, scrub brush, artichokes, CA AF, smooth, The Prisoner-like? port-like, green grapes on the nose, olive brine bitter finish, moss, mushrooms, algae, wet leaves, unrefined, thicc, soft palate, dry, guessing Artemis, German dungeon, damp basement, Rammstein?<br />
<br />
7) <b>2011 Chateau Montrose Saint-Estephe</b> - $110<br />
French funk, dry as a bone, tobacco, guessing Las Cases, nice, good, beautiful bouquet, perfume, bell pepper, fennel nose, very dry, Rachel guesses CA, nice cigar, beautiful soft, delicate, mineral, pair with steak<br />
<br />
8) <b>2009 Chateau Larrivet Haut-Brion Pessac-Leognan</b> - $55<br />
smells of charcuterie, minerals, gentile, sexy, savory, lovely, best wine all night, fleshy, lacks tannin structure, fan-F*CKing-tastic, best wine of the night, cheese, French AF, river rafting, olive brine, best of night, cassis, cigar box, beautiful, soft stroking kittens made of wine, my only regret is it's gone.<br />
<br />
9) <b>2010 Heitz Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon</b> - $97<br />
licorice, fennel, twizzlers, aMAHzing nose, musty, dark fruit, The Prisoner-like, more robust, bitterness, raisin, syrup, black currant, dark fruit, syrup, petrol, dirty martini, polyurethane nose, furniture varnish, old wood, arugula & burrata, Oh-face.<br />
<br />
10) <b>2011 Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon</b> - $110<br />
pepper gorgeous, sweet, small, light, musty, elegant, acidity but love it, it's got grip, ah-maz-ing nose, syrupy fruit, makes me happy<br />
<br />
FAREWELL WINE (not part of the Judgement of Paris):<br />
<b>2014 Amici Cabernet Sauvignon</b> - $49.99 @ Total Wine<br />
<br />
<b><u><i>WINNERS ranked per TWITs scoring:</i></u></b><br />
<b>WHITE WINES:</b><br />
1st Place: 2015 Premier Cru Domaine Gerard Thomas & Filles Puligny-Montrachet - $65<br />
2nd Place: 2015 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay - $50<br />
3rd Place: 2011 Domaine Jean Monnier & Fils Mersault-Charmes - $74<br />
4th Place: 2014 Freemark Abbey Chardonnay - $31<br />
<br />
<b>RED WINES:</b><br />
1st Place: 2009 Chateau Larrivet Haut-Brion Pessac-Leognan - $55<br />
2nd Place: 2010 Heitz Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon - $97<br />
3rd Place: 2011 Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon - $110<br />
4th Place: 2011 Chateau Montrose Saint-Estephe - $110<br />
5th Place: 2015 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Artemis cabernet Sauvignon - $49<br />
6th Place: 2014 Chateau Leoville Las Cases Saint Julien-Medoc - $160<br />
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Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-48370381341495187802018-04-21T10:01:00.000-07:002018-05-24T10:02:09.160-07:00Rose Tasting at Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar - Hosted by Jackie's Fine Wine & Spirits - April 21stRose Tasting at Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar - Hosted by Jackie's Fine Wine & Spirits - Saturday April 21st 2p-4p<br />
<br />
There were 7 tables of delicious Rose to taste!<br />
<br />
Table 1:<br />
I tasted the Henri Bourgeois Pinot Noir Loire - $15.99<br />
and the Henri Bourgeois Sancerre Loire - $20.99. The 2nd was my favorite.<br />
<br />
Table 2:<br />
I tasted Le Fervent Costieres de Nimes France $20.99, it was very light.<br />
<br />
Table 3:<br />
I tasted none of these, but I had in the past tasted the Chapoutier "Belleruche" France $11.99.<br />
<br />
Table 4:<br />
I tasted the Barville Cotes-du-Rhone "Esprit" France $14.99. It was a bit funky.<br />
The Castels des Maures - France - $16.99 - good<br />
The Fragile France - $20.99 - it was meh<br />
The Foncalieu PiquePoul France - $15.99 - it was too light<br />
The Elena Walch from Italy - $17.99 - good and funky<br />
The Portlandia from Oregon - $15.99 - CA COW!<br />
<br />
Table 5:<br />
The Ayres Oregon - $21.99<br />
Bruliam Rose of Pinot Noir California Elemental - $25.99 - loved it<br />
Champagne Lallier France - $54.99 - was AMAZING<br />
Fabre en Provence, France, $16.99 - delicious, wanted to buy a bottle.<br />
The Ned from New Zealand - $14.99 good<br />
Fabre en Provence Cru Classe France - $24.99 - delicious<br />
<br />
Table 6<br />
Sedosa from Spain - $14.99 - good<br />
Fleurs de Prarie France - $14.99 - loved it<br />
Pasas from Spain - $11.99 - olive juice briny end, liked it<br />
Minuty from France - $18.99 - good<br />
Hecht & Bannier from France - $19.99 - good<br />
Stoller from Oregon - $19.99 - limey<br />
<br />
Table 7<br />
Rousseau Freres from France - $18.99 - loved it<br />
Lefond "Roc Epine" Tavel from France - $19.99 - liked it<br />
Le Zolle from Italy - $14.99 - ewww too sweet, dumped it. No Way Rose!<br />
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Drift served appetizers also. it was a delightful day for it, perfectly sunny with a light breeze. not too hot either. Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-6887862393932031632018-04-14T09:30:00.000-07:002018-04-17T08:28:00.576-07:00TWITs - Chianti - hosted by Ms. Vicki & Ms. Lane - April 14th, 2018<b>TWITs - Chianti - hosted by Ms. Vicki & Ms. Lane - April 14th, 2018</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>When: </b>Saturday April 14th, 2018 @ 6 pm<br />
<b><br /></b><b>Theme: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chianti">Chianti</a> - </b>we will do our usual blind tasting method<br />
Chianti (kee-yan-tee) is an Italian red wine blend produced in Tuscany. Chianti can be made with many different varietals. Baron Bettino Ricasoli created the Chianti recipe of 70% Sangiovese, 15% Canaiolo and 15% Malvasia bianca in the middle of the nineteenth century. During the 1970s producers started to reduce the quantity of white grapes in Chianti. In 1995 it became legal to produce a Chianti with 100% Sangiovese. <span style="color: red;">For a wine to retain the name of Chianti, it must be produced with at least 80% Sangiovese grapes.</span> Chiantis tend to have medium-high acidity and medium tannins. The acidity in the wines make them very flexible with food and wine pairings, particularly with Italian cuisines that feature red sauce, as well with as beef, lamb and game.<br />
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A Chianti may have a picture of a black rooster (known in Italian as a gallo nero) on the neck of the bottle, which indicates that the producer of the wine is a member of the Gallo Nero Consortium, an association of producers of the Classico sub-area sharing marketing costs. Since 2005 the black rooster has been the emblem of the Chianti Classico producers association.<br />
<b> Basic level Chianti </b>is often characterized by its juicy fruit notes of cherry, plum and raspberry and can range from simple quaffing wines to those approaching the level of Chianti Classico. Basic everyday-drinking Chiantis are at their peak between three and five years after vintage<br />
<b>Chianti Classico </b>wines are characterized in their youth by their predominantly floral and cinnamon spicy bouquet. As the wine ages, aromas of tobacco and leather can emerge. Well-made examples of Chianti Classico often have the potential to age and improve in the bottle for six to twenty years.<br />
<b> Chianti Superiore</b> is an Italian DOCG wine produced in the provinces of Arezzo, Florence, Pisa, Pistoia, Prato and Siena, in Tuscany. Superiore is a specification for wines produced with a stricter rule of production than other Chianti wines, and has been authorized since 1996. Chianti Superiore wines can be produced only from grapes cultivated in the Chianti wine areas except from those vineyards that are registered in the Chianti Classico sub-zone. Vineyards registered in Chianti sub-zones other than Classico can produce Chianti Superiore wines but must omit the sub-zone name on the label. Aging is calculated from 1 January after the picking. Chianti Superiore cannot be sold to the consumer before nine months of aging, of which three must be in the bottle. Therefore it cannot be bottled before the June after picking or sold to consumers before the next September.<br />
<b>Chianti Riserva </b>is aged 38 months instead of 4-7. Chianti that meets more stringent requirements (lower yield, higher alcohol content and dry extract) may be labelled as Chianti Superiore, although Chianti from the "Classico" sub-area is not allowed in any event to be labelled as "Superiore".<br />
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<b>Reminder about <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italian_wine">Italian Wine Rating Scale:</a></b><br />
VDT --> IGT --> DOC --> DOCG (highest)<br />
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<b>Our hostesses Lane & Vicki provided us with many delicious foods to pair with our Chianti: </b>Stuffed mushrooms, Bruschetta on toast, Avocado, pickled okra, olives, Charcuterie, Fromages including Parmesan, Brie, and fresh Mozzerella Cheese, Spaghetti Squash/Chicken/Pesto Casserole, Caramel Cheesecake.<br />
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<b><u>Tasting Notes:</u></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Welcome Wine: </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>1) 2012 Ampeleia Tuscan IGT Red Blend <span style="color: purple;">(not a Chianti)</span> ~ $35 @ Le Caveau Fine Wines</b><br />
13.5% Alcohol<br />
Indicative blend: 50% Cabernet Franc, 20% Sangiovese, 30% of four different Mediterranean varieties. A collaboration among Elisabetta Foradori, Giovanni Podini and Thomas Widmann. Formerly Ampelaia was labeled as Maremma Toscana IGT.<br />
cherry, alcohol, heat, earthy, currant, blackberry, red currant, smell blackberry but taste raspberry, briny, pepper on finish, dry, medium finish, a Sangiovese Clone perhaps? fruity finish, strawberry, dark berry, young airy finish.<br />
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<b>2) 2015 Fattoria di Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico ~ $20 via Garagiste</b><br />
13% Alcohol<br />
chocolate, cocoa powder, cherry cordial, riserva? guesses Chris? deeper, richer, all good so far, dry, bitter, aged, oaky, the more I drink it the better I like it.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>3) 2013 Marchese Antinori Tignanello Chianti Riserva ~ $40 retail</b><br />
13.5% alcohol<br />
sour milk, astringent, terrible nose, smooth, ok for a Monday, 3 dumps at once! pales in comparison to the 2nd wine, I don't usually dump but...<br />
<br />
<b>4) 2011 MonteMaggio Chianti Classico ~ $26 @ Total Wine</b><br />
14.5% alcohol<br />
lovely bouquet, floral and fruit, jammy, white pepper finish, strawberry and black pepper in the back, acidic finish, tangy, good dinner wine, memorable, sits with you, you'll never forget it, a short term love affair.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>5) 2013 Cantine F.lli Bellini </b><b>Chianti Rufina Riserva </b><b>Fattoria Monte</b><b> ~ $18 @ Total Wine</b><br />
12.5% Alcohol<br />
earthy, organic, manure, sharp, warm, poo poo, compost, sweet tart, sour apple, tannins, pucker, a warm virile man fresh from the stable, cinnamon, classico guess from Christy, wet earth, potting soil, early stages of compost heap, snake charmer, it's got a lil French tickler on it, after the cheese it's not good.<br />
<br />
<b>6) 2013 Ruffino Ducale Chianti Classico Riserva ~ $ 20 retail</b><br />
13.5% alcohol<br />
tangy, manure, mild light nose, velvet nose, fruit forward, but the flavor trails off like Fruit Stripe Gum, flat, flabby, no follow-thru.<br />
<br />
<b>7) 2014 </b><b>Frescobaldi </b><b>Nipozzano Chianti Rufina Riserva ~ $21 retail</b><br />
13% alcohol<br />
mild, fruity on the nose, chocolate, good 3rd bottle of the night, cherry tobacco, no body, soil, a lil' punch in the face, chewy on the backend, the last Jedi, nutty tastes, butternut, promising on the nose, great size but not girth, fruity-not-too-fruity, not searching for anything, doesn't linger, flash in the pan, forgettable.<br />
<br />
<b>8) 2012 San Felice Il Grigio Chianti Classico Riserva ~ $24.99 @ Brookhaven Wines</b><br />
13% alcohol<br />
licorice, anise, oak and pepper, chocolate, easy drinking, late night wine, light pepper finish, nice, smooth, potting soil, we like this one!<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>9) 2013 Gaja Ca'Marcanda Promis </b><b>IGT Red Blend <span style="color: purple;">(not a Chianti)</span> - $40 @ Beverage World</b><br />
13.5% alcohol, Red Blend (Merlot, Syrah and a small part Sangiovese)<br />
berry nose, cassis, briny olive then pepper, great with steak! tangy, pushes #1, more substance!<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>10) 2013 </b><b>Frescobaldi </b><b>Nipozzano Chianti Rufina Riserva - $30 @ Vino Venue</b><br />
13% alcohol<br />
leather, sumptuous cherries, dark fruit, pine, tart berry, smooth, unfolding on my tongue, I can feel it spreading, easy drinking, I like this,<br />
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<b><u>VOTING results!</u></b><br />
We voted on which wines we liked the best.<br />
<b>First Place </b>= #2, the 2015 Fattoria di Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico<br />
<b>Second Place</b> = #1, the 2012 Ampeleia Tuscan IGT Red Blend (not a Chianti)<br />
<b>Third Place</b> = #9, the 2013 Gaja Ca'Marcanda Promis IGT Red Blend (not a Chianti)<br />
<b>Fourth Place</b> was tied between #3, #4, #5, and #10.<br />
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<b><br /></b>Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-76981815796259000872018-03-10T13:15:00.000-08:002018-03-13T09:48:26.308-07:00TWITs 10 Year Anniversary Party - March 10th, 2018 - hosted by Abbie & Matt<b>TWITs 10 Year Anniversary Party - March 10th, 2018 - hosted by Abbie & Matt</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
TWITs is turning 10 years old! Can you believe we've been doing tastings as a group for an entire DECADE?!? It boggles the mind. So to celebrate the New Year and an entire DECADE of TWITs, we are hosting an Anniversary Party.<br />
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<b>Theme:</b> TWITs 10 year Anniversary - Bring a bottle of your favorite wine from 2017 to share<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Bring: </b>TWITs should bring a bottle of your favorite wine that you tasted in 2017<br />
<b><br /></b>
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<b><u><i>How has TWITs changed your life?</i></u></b><br />
<i>"We are more knowledgeable about wine."</i><br />
-Rachel & Chris<br />
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<i>"I moved to Atlanta a few years back I did not know anyone, having been introduced to Abbie via Rheinallt, she invited me to TWITs and this has given me social events every month to look forward to, a lot of good laughs, fine food, and amazing wine. But most of all, I have made new friends!! I am now encouraging my parents to start a wine club modeled on TWITs back home, because after their last move they have not yet managed to make new friends."</i><br />
-Crystal<br />
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<i>"We have really enjoyed finding a community of folks who enjoy and take wine seriously, but don't seem to take themselves to seriously. Everyone we've met in TWITs has been warm and generous, interesting and insightful, and we've truly enjoyed the camaraderie we've experienced so far, along with learning more about and tasting some great wines!"</i><br />
-Chase & David<br />
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<i>"TWITS has expanded my vocabulary for describing wine, and I've tasted varietals I wouldn't have even have considered before."</i><br />
-Karin<br />
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<i>"TWITS helped me see wine in a more vino-culturally sensitive and socially savvy way."</i><br />
-Joshua<br />
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<i>"We’re so new, TWITs hasn’t had much change on our existence ... and I don’t know if we have fully realized how much TWITs will change our lives in the 10 years to come, but we look forward to finding out!!"</i><br />
-Crissy & Steve<br />
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<i>"TWITs changed my life by opening me up to wine regions around the world I would not have considered before. It was a TWITS gathering that encouraged us to plan a trip to Burgundy which was one of the best trips we've had. Our passion for wine has grown so much, we are now having a wine cellar put in our house to hold all our wine - must keep our Burgundian wine at the correct temps!"</i><br />
-Christy & Chad<br />
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<i>"We have learned so much in the years we have been members of Twits! We have learned about different varietals of wine we would have never have normally tried and about different regions and how the terroir impacts the wine. We have also made some wonderful friends and had a lot of fun. Here’s to 10 more years! Cheers!"</i><br />
- Kathy, Jamie, and Jackson<br />
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<i>"I think the most important thing about TWITs for me is the lovely people I've met. I have a feeling that's going to be a lot of people's answer. But regardless, the monthly gatherings seem to attract high quality people & the wines themselves make for the perfect conversation starter. It helps me get out of my introverted shell. Thanks for all you guys do." </i><br />
- Val<br />
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<b>**FOOD**</b><br />
1 lb of Foie Gras Torchon (from the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Feeding-Hannibal-Connoisseurs-Janice-Poon/dp/1783297662">Feeding Hannibal</a> cookbook, this time I marinated the Foie in <a href="http://www.fonseca.pt/en/port/wood/ruby-port/bin-27/">Fonseca Porto Bin No 27</a>)<br />
Toasted Baguette Slices <br />
Sage Plum Berry Sauce<br />
Caviar w Cremé Fraiche<br />
Prosciutto wrapped melon<br />
Stuffed mushrooms (soy chorizo & Italian cheese)<br />
Mini quiche<br />
Fromages (Dubliner, goat cheese, Brie)<br />
Olives<br />
Charcuterie<br />
Strawberries<br />
Crudités<br />
Chocolate bites<br />
<br />
<b>**WINES**</b><br />
<b>Welcome Wine: NV Gruet Blanc de Noirs, New Mexico ~ $15 @ most wine shops</b><br />
sometimes can get a good price on a case via Woot.com<br />
75% Pinot Noir, 25% Chardonnay<br />
12% Alcohol<br />
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<b>1) NV Schramsberg Blanc de Noirs, California ~ $50 @ the winery itself</b><br />
85% Pinot Noir, 15% Chardonnay<br />
12.7% alcohol<br />
Sparkling, bubbly, fruity, bubblegum aroma, strawberry, smoked bamboo (just kidding),<br />
Guesses:<br />
Abbie guessed Schramsberg Blanc de Blanc but definitely not La Marca Prosecco<br />
RH says it's too sweet to be that one<br />
<br />
<b>2) 2017 Whitehaven Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, NZ ~ $13 @ CostCo or $20 elsewhere</b><br />
100% Sauvignon Blanc<br />
13% alcohol<br />
still white wine, green apple, pith, sweet note, muscat, white flowers, quince, apple, honeysuckle, would be good in the hot tub, or on the porch<br />
Guesses:<br />
Karin - Albarino<br />
Kathy - Sauvignon Blanc in USA<br />
Chad, Janssen, Lauren, Val, Rachel - Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand<br />
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<b>3) 2014 Yonah Mountain Chardonnay ~ $40 from winery</b><br />
100% Chardonnay<br />
13.3% Alcohol<br />
floral, not quite as strong as a Jura, a lil funk, oaked, soft palate,<br />
Guesses:<br />
Abbie - French? no wait Semillon from Australia<br />
Kathy - Chardonnay from California<br />
Val - Chardonnay from Napa<br />
Crissy - not 100% chardonnay, a blend?<br />
Joshua - North GA wine<br />
Karin - Semillon<br />
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<b>4) 2016 Chateau d'Esclans Whispering Angel Rose, Provence - $23 @ Whole Foods</b><br />
Rose Blend - varietal info not found online - assume GSM ?<br />
13% alcohol<br />
faint nose, light, refreshing, berries on finish, lot of citrus, pine tree, floral, minerally, mild, doesn't standout, pairs well with chocolate, light pepper on finish, the Vanishing Rose, it kissed the grape skins, made out, but no tongue, the palest pink.<br />
Guesses:<br />
Kathy - French<br />
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<b>5) 2015 Domaine Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf du Pape - $80 @ PH Wine Merchant</b><br />
Southern Rhone Blend<br />
14.5% alcohol<br />
cassis, grape nose, back in North GA?, Welch's grape jelly, menthol, licorice<br />
Guesses:<br />
Abbie - Gigondas<br />
Lauren - French Bordeaux/young<br />
Crissy - a sweet red<br />
Kathy - Gamay from France<br />
Matt - North GA<br />
Joshua - Carmenere<br />
RH - Oregon Pinot Noir<br />
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<b>6) 2012 E. Guigal Chateauneuf du Pape - $40 @ CostCo</b><br />
Southern Rhone Blend<br />
14.5% alcohol<br />
smells like foie gras, licorice<br />
Guesses:<br />
Abbie - Italian Barbera<br />
Joshua - Bonarda<br />
Rachel - West Coast CA<br />
Crissy - Willamette, Oregon<br />
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<b>7) 2014 Stinson Vineyards Cabernet Franc, Virginia - $23 @ Ansley Wine Merchant</b><br />
100% Cabernet Franc<br />
13.5% alcohol<br />
Jammy, new oak, IDFK (I Don't F---ing Know) LOL<br />
Guesses:<br />
Kathy - Pinot Noir<br />
Abbie - Sonoma Pinot Noir<br />
Chad - Santa Barbara Pinot Noir<br />
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<b>8) 2000 Podere Rocche dei Manzoni Vigna Cappella di Santo Stefano, Barolo DOCG, Italy - $60 from RH's personal cellar</b><br />
100% Nebbiolo<br />
14.5% alcohol<br />
robusto, black licorice, currants, sherry, raisins, brandy, worcestershire sauce, tar on the nose<br />
Guesses:<br />
Abbie - Nebbiolo from Italy<br />
Joshua - Tempranillo (but then changed his mind to Syrah from USA)<br />
David - Montepulciano d'Abruzzo<br />
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<b>9) 2013 Michel Schlumberger Deux Terres Cabernet Sauvignon - $35 on WTSO or $75 from Winery</b><br />
100% Cabernet Sauvignon (50% each from each Terres, thus the name)<br />
14.9% alchol<br />
caramel, sweet nose, mmmmmm, honey and caramel, rainbows in the forest, dark and inky, we smell unicorns!,<br />
Guesses:<br />
Crystal - older wine, Australian Shiraz<br />
David - 8 yrs old<br />
Kathy - Chianti<br />
Joshua - Tannat<br />
Karin - Lebanon - no a French Cahors?<br />
RH - Syrah from Sonoma<br />
? - 2011 Brunello di Montalcino ?<br />
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<b>10) 2012 St. Clair Winery D.H. Lescombes Petit Verdot New Mexico - $45-50 @ winery</b><br />
100% Petit Verdot<br />
15% alcohol<br />
tar, asphalt, bell pepper, Cab Franc ? leather, desert, scrub brush, funky, earthy, smells like taint (we had to explain what taint meant, it was hilarious), New World Palate, Spices, pepper, fruit,<br />
Guesses:<br />
Karin - France<br />
Abbie - Cabernet Franc<br />
<br />
<b>11) 2015 La Crema Pinot Noir, Sonoma - $21-22 @ most stores</b><br />
100% Pinot Noir<br />
13.5% alcohol<br />
funky in a different way, bald eagles and freedom, rescuers down under, pine, mineral, earth, chewy, cassis note but not overpowering, soft nose<br />
Guesses:<br />
Chad - Pinot Noir Sonoma<br />
RH - Pinot Noir Burgundy<br />
Joshua - Pinot Noir Argentina<br />
Abbie - Pinot Noir Willamette<br />
<br />
<b>12) 2016 Rue de Perle Grand Vin Bordeaux - $15 @ Kroger</b><br />
Bordeaux blend<br />
13% alcohol<br />
grandma's perfume, flabby, don't like, plums, cinnamon<br />
Guesses:<br />
Karin - Italian<br />
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<b>WINNERS:</b><br />
We had 4 prizes for those who did well with guessing the wines. Our winners were:<br />
RH, Chad, Kathy, & Joshua</div>
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Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-54950861707785557232018-03-09T05:55:00.002-08:002018-03-14T09:38:19.195-07:00Italian wine tasting of Fattoria Cordero di Montezemolo of Piedmont, hosted by Alberto CorderoSherlock's & Sanders -<br />
3401 Northside Parkway NW<br />
Atlanta, GA30327<br />
March 8th, 2018 Time: 5.30pm to 7.30pm<br />
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Italian wine tasting of <a href="https://www.corderodimontezemolo.com/en/">Fattoria Cordero di Montezemolo</a> of Piedmont, hosted by Alberto Cordero - winemaker and owner:<br />
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- Cordero di Montezemolo - Langhe Arneis 2016 - $19.99<br />
- Cordero di Montezemolo - Barbera d'Alba 2015 - $21.99<br />
- Cordero di Montezemolo - Langhe Nebbiolo 2015 (baby Barolo) - $24.99<br />
- Cordero di Montezemolo - Barolo "Monfaletto" 2013 - $49.99<br />
- Cordero di Montezemolo - Barolo "Bricco Gattera" 2012 - $89.99<br />
- Cordero di Montezemolo - Barolo "Enrico VI" 2012 - $99.99<br />
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<img alt="" height="480" id="id_4c9_e4d2_5268_921b" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnt0hSP7leaoTkz7GhlEAy7X07SnFkSPBm4AG5LWhF_pDUPBIlyBVxNhUHSf46096AA1gSR8fst_mMLoBeFNv2U4gehoRCG268WREeMWrHP06-rooFedrxbWm49G-fRT_Lx3VLnpZwWTcE/s640/%255BUNSET%255D" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<img alt="" height="480" id="id_331d_34c2_62d3_4433" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A4ZeN4upqSI/WqlPUexLiZI/AAAAAAAACJk/TGqyb5M6SW8TRuqi209Nq12EGNhElItwQCHMYCw/s640/%255BUNSET%255D" title="" tooltip="" width="640" /></div>
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<img alt="" height="640" id="id_1a8_62cd_a895_1049" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-I05_qCKu25Q/WqlPUc4zNwI/AAAAAAAACJw/zjLtaolwvxgdQYLLpgtYg10enVxUBztsQCHMYCw/s640/%255BUNSET%255D" title="" tooltip="" width="480" /></div>
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Abbie with <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Alberto Cordero (winemaker & owner)</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><img alt="" height="640" id="id_4dcb_39a4_5b77_e384" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qNQu8qcIcxw/WqlPUfp8enI/AAAAAAAACJs/zAuYz4sKK68hwm2ka4uQ2-MBMlH1XeeugCHMYCw/s640/%255BUNSET%255D" title="" tooltip="" width="480" /></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">I need one of these! :)</span></div>
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Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902418409296036208.post-71347606075565688592018-02-10T08:28:00.000-08:002018-03-14T09:39:26.609-07:00February 10th - Wine & Chocolate - hosted by Steve and Crissy<b>February 10th - Wine & Chocolate</b> - hosted by Steve and Crissy<br />
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This next event already has my mouth watering in anticipation. Crissy & Steve have just returned from Napa, and they are hosting a Wine & Chocolate pairing tasting. There will be at least 5, possibly 6 wines which they have curated, with pairings for each course.<br />
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<b>WHEN:</b> Saturday February 10th, 2018 @ 7:30pm ET<br />
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<b>THEME:</b> Wine & Chocolate Pairings<br />
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<b>BRING:</b> TWITs should bring $20/per person<br />
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<b>We learned a few helpful tips for pairing wine with chocolate:</b><br />
1) The wine should be sweeter than the food with which it is being paired.<br />
2) One should taste the wine, take a bite of the food pairing, and then taste the wine again. This is to see if the food changes the wine on the palate in any way.<br />
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<b>Fun Fact: </b>White Chocolate isn't really Chocolate. White chocolate doesn't qualify as genuine chocolate because it doesn't contain chocolate solids (a.k.a. cocoa powder). White chocolate is typically made from a blend of cocoa butter, milk solids, sugar, milk fat and lecithin — a fatty emulsifier that holds it all together. Who knew?<br />
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TWITs had a fabulous time tasting the wine and glorious pairings along with them. I think my personal favorite of the courses was the flourless chocolate cake paired with the Biale Petite Sirah. Yum! Crissy is a fanTAStic cook! However, the most unusual dish was the Dukkah. I'd never had Dukkah before, and now I think I'm in love. Crissy and Steve did a wonderful job of designing an exquisite menu to pair with the wines. Each pairing was spot on, and absolutely delicious.<br />
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<img alt="" id="id_c7cc_5220_49a8_b5b8" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFnuQjq_LQ2W7doJ2y3yeOHYriDZa5PRiNQS3bPsQ1L-hfKlTsQChWIv2TKllru0ogemjGpT6fm3CYquXTNU1SiBDPb-z1MC7XQR7uj4gQWpRgXU-XqioN-_DHD5zv34P0hNu-io1n1anN/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_9d04_2414_45f7_fef0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-My99c3n5oQc/WoHm2O1CusI/AAAAAAAACGw/LU1O30oz0PIXvqAUlL6bQ5dFZZahuMwbwCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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Welcome Wine: <b>2016 Ehlers Estate Sauvignon Blanc</b></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_d599_63ad_322_2196" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Mx4pLiLtJFk/WoHm2DH1cRI/AAAAAAAACGs/qXszvR8oP4E3S5Vmrs3TEZL8DEOsZ_zSQCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<b><i>Course 1:</i> </b></div>
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<b>2015 Amici Sauvignon Blanc</b></div>
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<b>and</b></div>
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<b>White Chocolate Baba Ganoush</b></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_aa8d_99aa_8ed3_c7a7" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi50eR9g6H8ElYpAxxS0RlrrKGr4RNby31boJxcbTtSQcDBv4m7yUChgwExN-jSTxrzbJuTxdwY3sPItrgQe4n1Vk1Qjr4-SlRDwleb_R81d0rVjz-WFutOTD2ems1iyCUd22R17o1Ci_UM/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_2de9_8284_cf7d_daba" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr7lJ96BfxTkqSXEi4eM6lw2P5LB2mBcfZE4fupbaijt9Ma8GfL49orbANhjhqJcOa_4hTgDILC3-ueO7cuTQ5dZacDu-aDnKEpPhsKC5JHD7JBcw-FITkRhgpj6SkMUDXljyuQ3aDejTE/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<b><i>Course 2:</i></b></div>
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<b>Chocolate Dukkah w Olive Oil & Bread</b></div>
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(this also paired with the Amici Sauvignon Blanc AND with the first red wine)</div>
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<b>2016 Mollydooker "The Boxer" Shiraz</b></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_6ad5_6e90_d27b_161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhykNrvDYGpjt0TsrPtLfMYM2f16CZHJEohTkYo81xAq4rL08wvhdUBWII7krKFOuTrKZqEYj1Jf78lkq3Wqn5lhC03SG9TPEenpVPpS5ZvWD1zuofTtcRQIklvjkHBQ12A-F28Qx9Jr2tI/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<b><i>Course 3:</i></b></div>
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<b>Chocolate Dukkah Dusted Chicken Breast & Carrots</b></div>
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<b>and</b></div>
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<b>2016 Mollydooker "The Boxer" Shiraz</b></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_5e4c_c15_7c7f_9291" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ClaByK8Ou1I/WoHm3ZR9QUI/AAAAAAAACHA/PHtFX_taiLEmhn0JTt54K4-GY-xraGSGgCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_e9b9_6b60_3756_6ee5" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K2Gyb51nXSI/WoHslW0B28I/AAAAAAAACH8/b0UFazvlZegRCeVFaOXjySRvkdx6vCjiwCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<b><i>Course 4:</i></b></div>
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<b>Mole Chili</b></div>
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<b>&</b></div>
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<b>2015 The Seventy Five Wine Company Cabernet Sauvignon</b></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_8eab_fdf4_40d0_d6fb" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W1L-JkD5L1A/WoHm3Z7B99I/AAAAAAAACHE/m3EnuUO_nis4W05xx3GatvJzwCBA9-fDgCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_54a1_7a_3d6d_a29" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-v8Diqpuglcg/WoHm4HD4j6I/AAAAAAAACHM/-LU6HpzVokcaHBGPFLc3PawMy0h9b_KhwCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<b><i>Course 5:</i></b></div>
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<b>Flourless Chocolate Cake with Freshly Whipped Cream</b></div>
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<b>and</b></div>
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<b>2015 Robert Biale Vineyards "Royal Punishers" Petite Sirah</b></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_bc59_5a1_264b_dc31" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZZd3y_CMkBI/WoHm4JNr3cI/AAAAAAAACHI/U_ENv4S6AoQfP_nXATWlqze-dp8MSzF8wCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_4832_2f8b_e243_21ff" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7Gy_O9xqnnw/WoHm4If1RUI/AAAAAAAACHU/3_-kTVb5j-IS8NohD4NzdF8V1anri1DbgCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<b><i>Course 6:</i> </b></div>
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<b>White Chocolate Chunk Macadamia Nut Cookies</b></div>
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<b>and</b></div>
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<b>2015 Ferrari-Carano "Eldorado Gold" Semillon</b></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_28b_8a7f_8d93_3520" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mPkfM_wbkrs/WoHm4dCY8BI/AAAAAAAACHQ/X5uB3ZW04CwEsrx71gGtb0YUjrTNa4olgCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_ead4_7142_2086_ccdf" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hOeejGMhiG0/WoHm4xSpdoI/AAAAAAAACHY/7xzS7cCYXPg1bxU3MdO2leU_10hrpj-zgCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<b><i>Course 7:</i> </b></div>
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<b>"PBJ"</b></div>
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<b>Chocolate & Peanut Butter Bites</b></div>
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<b>and</b></div>
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<b>2016 Bella Vineyards "Late Harvest" Zinfandel </b></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_4c52_6db2_c1f_afc6" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JkmLc-rtftg/WoHm5L07fVI/AAAAAAAACHc/wQRlM7erJO8rC-xoEz76WTXS9hvZvRdJgCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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Twitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15348977690172143910noreply@blogger.com0