Vin de Cru or "Vintage Wine" is a weekly exposé focusing on VinVillageRadio guest interviews which feature many high-profile, in-depth discussions with the "who's who" in wine and food. Please read, listen and enjoy!
WineFairy chats with Benziger on Biodynamic Farming; Michael Wangbickler on AWC; and with Matt Reidy of Connor-Brennan Winery
Posted March 4th, 2010 by WineFairy
First segment of this weeks Show: "If You Build It... They Will Come": Biodiversity at Benziger Family Winery - Kathy Benziger-Threlkeld and Chris Benziger
The development of Benziger Family's farming techniques has been an evolution of sorts. When they first began growing grapes on their Sonoma Mountain estate, they farmed like everyone else... with machines and chemicals. Over time, they started to notice that their wines, while consistent, lacked that intangible thing, that sense of place, that they knew existed in the land and should have been reflected in their wines. They eliminated the use of chemicals in 1990, and in the mid-1990s met Alan York, an expert in Biodynamic practices and a world-renowned horticulturist. Today, Benziger Family estate is one of a handful of Demeter certified-Biodynamic vineyards in North America.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 1.
Second segment of this weeks Show: Biodynamic Farming... the Ultra-Organic Approach to Holistic Viticulture - Kathy Benziger-Threlkeld and Chris Benziger
To achieve the purest expression of vineyard character in the wine, Benziger Family embraces a winegrowing philosophy that emphasizes naturally maintained, vital soils. Healthy soils allow roots to fan out and grow deep, providing a better balance between the root system below and plant growth above. This results in stronger vines and fruit with more intense, site-specific flavors. Benzigers created a pyramid to illustrate the principles and practices of Biodynamics; The core elements of a healthy, well-balanced vineyard estate are described in the bottom half of the pyramid; The top half expresses vineyard individuality.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 2.
Third segment of this weeks Show: Academy of Wine Communications Promotes Excellence, Networking, and New Content - Michael Wangbickler
Michael Wangbickler, DWS, CWE, is providing new leadership for wine coverage in the media as Executive Director of the Academy of Wine Communications (AWC), founded in 1994. Members of the AWC are wine and food public relations and marketing professionals, as well as wine reporters, writers, editors and wine communication industry leaders. AWC general principles include: Build on the past, look to the future; Be a resource; Be Inclusive; Use Web 2.0 for Communication; Generate Content; and Be a Green Organization. Membership Benefits include: A friendly environment in which to build new professional relationships with industry colleagues, foster invaluable alliances, advance your career, generate business referrals, and begin lifelong friendships.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 3.
Fourth segment of this weeks Show: Urban Connor Brennan Cellars Making Wondrous Pinot Noirs and Syrahs from Sonoma - Matthew Reidy
The Vintners Hall of Fame celebrates the men and women whose collective vision, determination, and hard work have been responsible for the growth and worldwide prestige of the California wine industry. Bronze sculptures of the inductees "crafted by renowned artist Lawrence Newlan" are displayed on the historic 2,200-gallon redwood wine barrels in the former Christian Brothers' Barrel Room. Each plaque includes a biography of the inductee, capturing that person's unique accomplishments and role in making California one of the most legendary places in the world for fine wine. Each March, the college holds A Celebration of California Wine & Food, a series of events celebrating the induction of new members into the Vintners Hall of Fame. Proceeds from the Induction celebrations contribute to scholarships to the Rudd Center for Professional Wine Studies. Asher is a regular essayist for World of Fine Wine London-based magazine. His March essay is titled: Worth The Sacrifice? Points, Technique, And Terroir.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 4.
lynn krielow chamberlain is an independent wine and food journalist and host of the "Wine and Dine" radio show heard on VinVillageRadio broadcast on wsRadio, the world wide leader in internet talk radio with over 4-million monthly listeners!
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WineFairy chats with Vintners Hall of Fame Inductees Andy Beckstoffer, Napa Entrepreneur and Grape-Grower; and 30-Year Gourmet Magazine Wine Essayist, Gerald Asher
Posted February 25th, 2010 by WineFairy
First segment of this weeks Show: Andy Beckstoffer, Napa Entrepreneur, Grape-Grower, Vintners Hall of Fame 2010 Inductee - Andy Beckstoffer
Richmond, Virginia born and raised, Andy Beckstoffer has contributed much to Napa Valley. Beckstoffer will be honored at The Culinary Institute of America 2010 Vintners Hall of Fame as a 2010 inductee on March 13, 2010 with a daylong Celebration of California Wine & Food, culminating in the Vintners Hall of Fame induction ceremony. In 1994 Andy was a founding member of The Rutherford Dust Society and served as its initial President. He remains on the Society's Board of Directors and is the current President. Beckstoffer became a founding director of the Napa Valley Grape Growers Association (NVGGA) in 1975. A year later, as the Association's president, he brought forth the revolutionary idea of basing the price of a ton of grapes on the future price of a bottle of wine. As a leader in modern viticulture practices, many of his ideas from irrigation to vine spacing were considered radical when introduced. After years of rapid expansion in the wine industry and little control over what constituted a winery, the NVGGA made a recommendation to require that 75 percent of the wine made in the Napa Valley Agricultural Preserve be from Napa Valley grapes. In 1989, the 75 percent rule was established and Beckstoffer was hailed by the NVGGA as the proposal's "chief architect."
Click HERE to listen to Segment 1.
Second segment of this weeks Show: Leader in Wine and Grape Industry Exemplifies Technology, Business Acumen and Agricultural Sensitivity - Andy Beckstoffer
Andy Beckstoffer came to Napa as a corporate executive in 1969, after earning an M.B.A. from the Amos Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College. Recognizing the potential for growth in premium wines, he started a farming company which he eventually purchased in 1973. Beckstoffer Vineyards has grown to be the largest vineyard owner, farming group, and winegrape seller in the Napa Valley and the North Coast, delivering grapes to more than 100 of the state's most famous wineries. Andy Beckstoffer, Chairman and CEO, Beckstoffer Vineyards, developed a formula for paying growers based on the finished wine value, thus reducing the incentive for excessive yield and focusing growers on quality. He has played a major role in preserving agriculture in the Napa Valley and has contributed to efforts to restore the Napa River. Beckstoffer and his namesake Vineyards continue to influence California viticulture. As a leader in the wine and grape industry, his latest endeavor is to bring the technology, business acumen and agricultural sensitivity he honed for 30 years in the Napa Valley to Mendocino and Lake Counties.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 2.
Third segment of this weeks Show: 30-Year Gourmet Magazine Wine Essayist Keeps Wine in Perspective - Gerald Asher
While still a student in London, Gerald Asher took a part-time job in a wine shop near Piccadilly, a small step that started him on his way to a distinguished career. A succession of work-study programs in key wine regions, led to employment in the wine industry in positions that eventually brought him to California where, as first chairman of Wine Institute's Geographic Appellations Committee, he quickly developed a keen sense of California's viticultural identity. Through his work in the industry and his elegantly written monthly essays for Gourmet, where he was wine editor for thirty years, he passed to countless others his deep knowledge of wine and his passion for California. Books drawn mainly from his Gourmet writing include On Wine, Vineyard Tales, Wine Journal, and The Pleasures of Wine.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 3.
Fourth segment of this weeks Show: 2009 Vintners Hall of Fame Inductee has Revealing Romantic Notion of Wine - Gerald Asher
The Vintners Hall of Fame celebrates the men and women whose collective vision, determination, and hard work have been responsible for the growth and worldwide prestige of the California wine industry. Bronze sculptures of the inductees "crafted by renowned artist Lawrence Newlan" are displayed on the historic 2,200-gallon redwood wine barrels in the former Christian Brothers' Barrel Room. Each plaque includes a biography of the inductee, capturing that person's unique accomplishments and role in making California one of the most legendary places in the world for fine wine. Each March, the college holds A Celebration of California Wine & Food, a series of events celebrating the induction of new members into the Vintners Hall of Fame. Proceeds from the Induction celebrations contribute to scholarships to the Rudd Center for Professional Wine Studies. Asher is a regular essayist for World of Fine Wine London-based magazine. His March essay is titled: Worth The Sacrifice? Points, Technique, And Terroir.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 4.
lynn krielow chamberlain is an independent wine and food journalist and host of the "Wine and Dine" radio show heard on VinVillageRadio broadcast on wsRadio, the world wide leader in internet talk radio with over 4-million monthly listeners!
Click HERE to join us now!!!
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WineFairy chats with Michael Brill on Crushpad Napa; with Leslie Sbrocco on the NY Wine Expo and Thirsty Girl; and with Ray Johnson on the SF Chronicle Wine Competition
Posted February 18th, 2010 by WineFairy
First segment of this weeks Show: Crushpad-San Francisco Moves to Napa Valley - Michael Brill
Michael Brill, President and CEO, founded Crushpad, San Francisco in 2004 to serve would-be winemakers across the virtual landscape who couldn't up and quit their job and move to California. Amateur and virtual winemakers have been winning competitions from the Crushpad warehouse production facility in an nontraditional urban setting that is about to embark on a more comprehensive vini/viti experience one-hour north, to an existing winery, in the Oak Knoll district called Silverado Trail Wine Studio in March, 2010.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 1.
Second segment of this weeks Show: Crushpad Napa Valley Providing a more Complete Winemaking Experience - Michael Brill
"While we have worked hard to provide as much access to the winemaking process as possible, our efforts to provide experiences outside of the winery have been limited. So many of you have expressed interest in getting more involved in areas such as the vineyard. Not only are we going to add classes on viticulture, we are also arranging sessions with well-known winemakers, grape growers and other folks in the business such as our barrel and cork producers. At the winery, we will be operating a tasting room where we will be pouring and selling wines made by Crushpad clients. Although the majority of our winemaking will still be exactly as it is in San Francisco - one barrel at a time... "We now can help folks who want to grow their brands substantially." Michael Brill
Crushpad's new home at "Silverado Trail Wine Studio"
Click HERE to listen to Segment 2.
Third segment of this weeks Show: "Life. Drink It Up... Thirsty Girl... Live Life to the Fullest" - Leslie Sbrocco
Wine Author, Wine TV-Personality Leslie Sbrocco is a true jet-setter, whether it's a regular appearance on the Today Show, accepting a Tasty Award for her "Check Please" west-coast PBS series, or tasting wines in Chile, this past December. She never sits still. Her new project "Adventures of a Thirsty Girl" was recently launched at the Boston Wine Expo, and the upcoming New York Wine Expo to follow, where she is a guest speaker. Thirsty Girl is a social networking site where women can share in their passion for wine, food, travel, and friendship.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 3.
Fourth segment of this weeks Show: Enjoying a view of the Golden Gate Bridge while tasting award-winning wines! - Ray Johnson
Ray Johnson, Assistant Director, The San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition talks up the 2010 Public Tasting on Saturday, February 20, at Fort Mason Center's Festival Pavilion featuring award winning wines from across the country. The Public Tasting is a wine and food experience. Featured at this event will be a sampling of hand crafted creations from premier artisan food purveyors, which will include award winning artisan breads, savory meats, exotic oils, hand crafted cheeses, delicious desserts, sumptuous sauces, and other exquisite delicacies. Buy tickets online now as the last two year public tastings' sold out in advance. Click here to order tickets.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 4.
lynn krielow chamberlain is an independent wine and food journalist and host of the "Wine and Dine" radio show heard on VinVillageRadio broadcast on wsRadio, the world wide leader in internet talk radio with over 4-million monthly listeners!
Click HERE to join us now!!!
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WineFairy chats with Eddie Osterland-America`s 1st Master Sommelier; with Leopold Binko and Bedrich Kabriel on Absinth; and with Christopher Taranto of Paso Robles Wine Country
Posted February 11th, 2010 by WineFairy
First segment of this weeks Show: Power Entertainer is America's First Master Sommelier - Eddie Osterland
You will thoroughly enjoy Eddie Osterland's journey from New Jersey in the 1960's to becoming America's first Master Sommelier via Honolulu, Bordeaux, and London. His college studies focused on psychology which is uses to his professional advantage as "Your Personal Wine Coach" and "Professional Speaker on Power Entertaining." His approach includes demystifying wine but his expertise is in teaching executive entertaining strategies to empower people with confidence in the boardroom, restaurant, and home alike.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 1.
Second segment of this weeks Show: Green Fairy Original Czech Absinth, Djabel and Koruna Combine Ancient Tradition with Classic Modern Recipes - Leopold Binko and Bedrich Kabriel
The story of Green Fairy and Djabel Absinth is one that is clouded in the history of the Dark Ages, and carries with it all the mysticism of magic. Made in one of Europe's oldest distilleries, these products have been carved out of ancient culture and forged by the constant battle between good and evil. During the 9th Century, when the Moravian Empire was under attack from the Avars, the male population was greatly reduced. To defend themselves against further annihilation, soothe their souls, and seek gratification, they sought consolation in witchcraft. Many local woodland ingredients were used to concoct "magical" brews including one of the oldest and most respected Wormwood. This herb was often used for hex breaking, love potions, and defense against poisons spawned from sea dragons and hemlock. Leopold Binko is Managing Director for Green Tree Distillery, in the Czech Republic; Bedrich Kabriel translates from Australia.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 2.
Third segment of this weeks Show: Czech Republic's "The Distillery by the Green Tree" dates back to 1518 - Leopold Binko and Bedrich Kabriel
Green Fairy absinth is produced to an exacting recipe at one of the oldest distilleries in The Czech Republic - The Green Tree that dates back to 1518. In spite of devastating wars, natural disasters, and revolutions, the production of spirits and liqueurs of exceptional quality has continued for nearly 500 years. The power of this wormwood-based potion could not be denied and physicians were quick to administer and prescribe adaptations of it to those suffering from an array of ills. Eventually the potion fell into the hands of the French who would go on to write their own version of Absinthe's history, popularise it and then banish it some years later. Fortunately the production of this mythical brew continued in the land of its birth, the Czech Republic. Today the modern versions, Green Fairy and Djabel, only differ in alcoholic volume and thujone levels but share the same variation of botanicals that include Coriander, Juniper, Hyssop, Star Anise and Wormwood. These absinths are a superb base spirit for a variety of cocktails or even work wonderfully in a simple mix with tonic, soda or any selection of juices.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 3.
Fourth segment of this weeks Show: Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance is kicking off 2010 Tour with Grand Tasting Event in San Diego - Christopher Taranto
PASO ROBLES WINE COUNTRY, one of the nation's premier wine producing regions, hits the road for its 2010 national Grand Tasting Tour with the first stop scheduled the week of February 23 - 25, 2010 in San Diego, the first and only Southern California stop on the Tour. Over 40 Paso Robles winemakers will take the journey down to San Diego to participate in a number of winemaker dinners, trade tastings and consumer tastings. The goal of the event is really to introduce Southern California wine lovers to the great wines and winemakers that come out of Paso Robles to learn a little bit about Paso Robles wine as well. Christopher Taranto is Communications Manager for the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 4.
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lynn krielow chamberlain is an independent wine and food journalist and host of the "Wine and Dine" radio show heard on VinVillageRadio broadcast on wsRadio, the world wide leader in internet talk radio with over 4-million monthly listeners!
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WineFairy chats with Richard Leahy on Wineries Unlimited 2010; Jessica Bell of Midwest Wine School; and Dewey Markham on French Wine Society Online Program
Posted February 4th, 2010 by WineFairy
First segment of this weeks Show: Wineries Unlimited 2010 Conference: 'Balancing Costs and Quality for Profit' - Richard Leahy
"Balancing Costs and Quality for Profit" is the conference theme of the upcoming Wineries Unlimited, the second largest vineyard and winery conference and tradeshow in North America. Produced by Vineyard & Winery Management magazine since 1976, Wineries Unlimited, takes place March 9-12, 2010 at the Valley Forge Convention Center, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania in suburban Philadelphia. The conference theme, "Balancing Costs and Quality for Profit", is both relevant and a top priority, said Richard Leahy, program director and East Coast editor of Vineyard & Winery Management. As with other goods, consumers are now buying wine more cautiously and spending less, while producers struggle to lower inventories and keep down costs. Despite the recession, we can't afford to sacrifice wine quality, but we must stay profitable; the challenge is how to find the right balance that works for vineyards, wineries and their customers, Leahy explains.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 1.
Second segment of this weeks Show: French Wine Scholar Study & Certification Program now in Chicago at Midwest Wine School - Jessica Bell
Midwest Wine School Founder Jessica Bell is partnering with The French Wine Society to offer the French Wine Scholar study & certification program to its wine education offerings in Chicago and Milwaukee beginning February 20th. The French Wine Scholar program offers a solid and comprehensive foundation for understanding the world of French wines. It is the official curriculum for French wine as endorsed by Wines of France/French National Wine Office. It was developed by the French Wine Society to provide current, accurate information on the wine regions of France and to provide testing that would validate proficiency of the course material. The course consists of 8 modules representing over 16 hours of classroom instruction and includes wine samples representative of each region. Classes will be taught by Jessica Bell*, FWS (French Wine Scholar), DWS (Diploma in Wine & Spirits).
Click HERE to listen to Segment 2.
Third segment of this weeks Show: French Wine Society Webinar: "1855: A History of the Bordeaux Classification" March 15th - Dewey Markham, Jr.
Dewey Markham, Jr., author of the James Beard Award-winning book 1855: A History of the Bordeaux Classification, will explain what makes the Classification unique to Bordeaux, why some areas such as Saint-Emilion and Pomerol were not included, and how it influences--and how it does not--the character of the wines we enjoy today. The 1855 Classification is a cornerstone for understanding Bordeaux and its wines. The webinar is free to all registered participants in the eight month French Wine Scholar e-learning program and available for $30 for FWS Members and $40 for non-members each. The webinar will be hosted from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. E.S.T. Wine and Dine listeners will receive a 10% discount to the French Wine Scholar Online Program by registering online with coupon code H1RR4G.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 3.
Fourth segment of this weeks Show: French Wine Society Webinar: "Bordeaux Futures: The Process, The Paradigm" March 22nd - Dewey Markham, Jr.
Dewey Markham, Jr. will provide an insider's prospective on Bordeaux, as he delves into the economics of the Bordeaux wine trade. Learn the mechanics of Bordeaux pricing and the history and future of futures. This presentation will discuss the maneuvers and decisions that preoccupy much of the wine world every April, and what it will mean to you as ads for the 2009s begin appearing in the coming weeks. The webinar is free to all registered participants in the eight month French Wine Scholar e-learning program and available for $30 for FWS Members and $40 for non-members each. The webinar will be hosted from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. E.S.T. Wine and Dine listeners will receive a 10% discount to the French Wine Scholar Online Program by registering online with coupon code H1RR4G.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 4.
lynn krielow chamberlain is an independent wine and food journalist and host of the "Wine and Dine" radio show heard on VinVillageRadio broadcast on wsRadio, the world wide leader in internet talk radio with over 4-million monthly listeners!
Click HERE to join us now!!!
Click a logo to connect with VinVillage!
WineFairy chats with Halls Jamie Miller on Cabernet Cookoff; Nicholas Solga of Xplorador Wines; Argentinas Ikal 1150 Wine; and Duane Dappen, new President of ZAP
Posted January 27th, 2010 by WineFairy
First segment of this weeks Show: Napa Hall Wines Cabernet Cookoff™ Call for Amateur and Professional Team Entries - Jamie Miller
Hall Napa Valley is California's First Gold LEED® Certified Winery and no stranger to competition, according to Jamie Miller, Sales & Marketing. Employees are forever cooking up new ideas to showcase the best Hall Napa Cabernet Sauvignon and food combo. Now, amateur cooks and professional chefs are invited to enter the First Annual Hall Cabernet Cookoff™, Sunday, May 16th to benefit Napa Valley non-profits. Teams can submit their creative dish that's made primarily with organic and sustainable ingredients via our link provided below. Entries must be received by February 25th, 2010. Lots more details in our chat!
Click HERE to listen to Segment 1.
Second segment of this weeks Show: Win a Trip to Chile, Experience Xplorador Wine Harvest 2010 - Nicholas Solga
If Tweeting, Facebooking, YouTubing, Blogging, or Emailing is your forté, Xplorador Wines of Chile invites listeners to show your networking mojo and possibly win a trip to witness and partake in Xplorador's 2010 Harvest, the first week of April, 2010, for lucky two people. Nicholas Solga, Brand Manager, describes the intricate point system for entry methods. Start your engines; Choose your platforms; Start posting; Be creative and Xplore the wines from Chile's Central Valley between the Andes range and the Pacific Ocean.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 2.
Third segment of this weeks Show: Poetry in a Bottle: Mendoza, Argentina's Ikal1150 Wine Holds Poetry Contest - Sandra Beltran and Jerry Ward
Sandra Beltran and Jerry Ward, co-founders and partners of the boutique Argentinean vineyard that produces Ikal1150 wines is tempting wine drinkers to pick up their pens and write a poem about their passion for wine. The company's “Poetry in a Bottle” contest will award the winning poet with a three-night stay in a luxury suite at the Esencia Estate in Mexico's Riviera Maya, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. The package includes daily breakfast and a private wine and food pairing for two at the hotel's gourmet restaurant. Pronounced "ee-kahl", the name means poetry in the native Mayan language. "Eleven-fifty" describes the vineyard elevation in meters above sea level. The contest will run from February 1 to 28.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 3.
Fourth segment of this weeks Show: Become One with Zin: ZAP showcases Zinfandel Advocates & Producers - Duane Dappen
D-cubed Cellars of Napa President and Winemaker Duane Dappen joins us as current President of Zinfandel Advocates and Producers to talk-up the upcoming 19th Annual Zinfandel Festival, January 28 - 30, 2010, Fort Mason Center, San Francisco. Not a member? No problem. Public tickets are available. Discover how ZAP is preserving the history of Zinfandel through the Heritage Vineyard Project, directed by UC Davis. If you are a devoted foodie with a passion for Zinfandel, make plans to indulge your “inner epicurean” and spend the evening at Good Eats & Zinfandel Pairing!
Click HERE to listen to Segment 4.
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lynn krielow chamberlain is an independent wine and food journalist and host of the "Wine and Dine" radio show heard on VinVillageRadio broadcast on wsRadio, the world wide leader in internet talk radio with over 4-million monthly listeners!
Click HERE to join us now!!!
Click a logo to connect with VinVillage!
WineFairy chats with Chuck Blethen on Muscadines; Jeff Price on NC Wine Council; and Dave Eckert on Taste of Hospitality in KC
Posted January 22nd, 2010 by WineFairy
First segment of this weeks Show: Southern Appalachian Viticulture Institute extols Wild Mountain Muscadines - Chuck Blethen
Chuck Blethen penned the Wine Etiquette Guide while living in Scottsdale, Arizona, while successfully growing a French-American hybrid wine-grape on the desert valley floor, not far from Mayo Clinic. He now lives in Marshall, North Carolina, northwest of Asheville, at 2,100 hundred feet, and has done extensive research on the wild Muscadine grape vines growing in Madison County. They said it couldn't be done but I am told that there were several wineries growing Muscadine in the hills, prior to Prohibition. Blethen, Executive Director, the Southern Appalachian Viticulture Institute, will be a featured speaker at the upcoming Organic Growers School in Asheville, March 6-7th. They expect 1,600 people to attend from around the world. Blethen's topic will be growing grapes in Western NC and what he has learned about Wild Mountain Muscadines.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 1.
Second segment of this weeks Show: North Carolina Wine & Grape Council Facilitates Development of North Carolina's Grape and Wine Industries - Jeff Price
Jeff Price, Gentleman, North Carolina Chapter of the Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine, believes that North Carolina is missing a great opportunity to capitalize upon the potential fame of its native muscadine grape/wine industry, especially the attention that could be given to the Mother Vine to promote tourism in the State as well as the NC wine industry. To quote Price in a recent letter, "The NC Wine & Grape Council is somewhat misguided in this regard or, perhaps, strangled by its dual need to meet the demands and expectations of the muscadine and vinifera wineries. Rather than competing with each other they should work together to insure that the North Carolina wine industry is internationally recognized as among the best wine producers in the world. North Carolina, now having thrown the tobacco monkey off its back, should equally throw the anti-alcohol prohibitionist monkey off its back and embrace its former position (prior to Prohibition) as the country's leading wine producing state."
Click HERE to listen to Segment 2.
Third segment of this weeks Show: Per Vitem! Ad Vitam! (Through the vine! Towards life!) includes Southeastern US native Vitis rotundifolia - Jeff Price
According to Jeff Price, the NC Wine & Grape Council has a responsibility to promote the Vinifera wineries, but, not at the expense of the Muscadine wineries. North Carolina is very fortunate to have both types of wineries and it should proudly boast this fact in its promotion of the State's wine and grape growing industry. Few states can offer such variety. "An individual who purchases Midnight Magnolia from Duplin, then purchases a Cabernet Franc from Childress, a Viognier from Stony Knoll and a Merlot from Chatham Hill is not saying they like muscadine over vinifera or the other way around. They are saying they like BOTH. Price reminds the Council members that their mission is: "to facilitate development of North Carolina's grape and wine industries by enhancing product quality for consumers, and encouraging economic viability and opportunity for growers and processors through education, marketing and research."
Click HERE to listen to Segment 3.
Fourth segment of this weeks Show: Friendship Inn's Seventh Annual "Taste of Hospitality" February 27, Kansas City - Dave Eckert
The Seventh Annual "Taste of Hospitality" wine dinner of Kansas City supports Friendship Inn's heartfelt mission to provide a "home away from home" for out-of-town guests whose loved ones are receiving care at the University of Kansas Hospital. This year's event features wines, hand-selected, by Dave Eckert, Producer and Host of Culinary Travels with Dave Eckert, paired with menu by Chef Todd Walline of Blue Hills. A silent auction will round out the evening. Friendship Inn's Seventh Annual "Taste of Hospitality" Saturday, February 27, 6 - 9 p.m., Blue Hills Country Club. $95 per person. For more information, to learn about sponsorships, or to donate silent auction items, call (816) 506-6339.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 4.
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lynn krielow chamberlain is an independent wine and food journalist and host of the "Wine and Dine" radio show heard on VinVillageRadio broadcast on wsRadio, the world wide leader in internet talk radio with over 4-million monthly listeners!
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WineFairy chats with Austin Hope on WineDJ and Hope Wines; with Ed Engoron-American Gourmet Choclatique and with Lisa Rigisich on Pinot Days
Posted January 15th, 2010 by WineFairy
First segment of this weeks Show: WINE DJ Liberty School Winery iPHONE APP Offers Music to Match Your Spirits for Millennials - Austin Hope
Hope Family Wines, a family-run wine producer with over 30 years of grape growing experience in Paso Robles, is inviting consumers to drink to a new beat. Winemaker and President Austin Hope joins us to talk about the launch of Wine DJ, the Liberty School iPhone application created to build a playlist of Music to Match Your Spirits based on mood, setting and which Liberty School wine is being consumed. The application is available for download free via Apples app store and on Apples iTunes. With the launch of the Wine DJ, Hope Family Wines is asserting its role as an innovative vintner by combining technology, music and affordable wines in a creative retail program geared toward the Millennial generation.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 1.
Second segment of this weeks Show: Hope Family Wines, Paso Robles Grape Growers, 30-year community ambassador and leader - Austin Hope
Hope Family Wines is a family-owned and operated wine producer in Paso Robles, CA encompassing five brands: Liberty School, Candor, Treana, Austin Hope and Westside Wines. The WINE DJ Liberty School iPhone app is compatible with several wines within the Hope Family Wines portfolio: Liberty School, Candor, and Treana. Liberty School produces a Cabernet Sauvignon ($12), Syrah ($12), and Chardonnay ($12). Treana Red ($50) is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, and Treana White ($25) is a blend of Marsanne and Viognier. The multi-vintage Candor label produces a Merlot and Zinfandel ($18). Under the Austin Hope label, Hope Family Wines sells limited-production Grenache and Syrah ($42). They continue to craft elegant blends that capture the soul of the Paso Robles terroir.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 2.
Third segment of this weeks Show: American Gourmet Choclatique introduces Napa Valley California Wine Chocolates - Ed Engoron
Choclatique is a privately owned, super-premium chocolate company founded in 2003 by Ed Engoron and Joan Vieweger. Hand-crafted in their Southern California Chocolate Studios, Choclatique provides over 195 'Authentically American' premium chocolate confections. The procurement policy is to buy sustainable, American-made and sourced products. Choclatique Napa Valley Wine Chocolates are available in eight varieties: Late Harvest Cabernet, Fall Vineyard Merlot, Estate Chardonnay Chocolate, Sparkling Blanc de Chocolate, Old Oak Barrel-Aged Port Chocolate, First-Crush Fume Blanc Chocolate, Zinfandel Cuvee Chocolate and Pretty in Pink "Blush" Chocolate. The Napa Valley Wine Chocolates are available in an 8-piece Boutique, 15-piece Collection and 30-piece Indulgence boxes with prices starting at $18.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 3.
Fourth segment of this weeks Show: First Annual Pinot Days Southern California - Lisa Rigisich
Lisa and Steven Rigisich created the Bay Area Wine Project six years ago because Pinot Noir is their favorite wine. Pinot Days celebrates pinot noir in its many styles, ranging from modern to earthy to elegant. Unlike wine events that appeal to a narrow customer base featuring wines more alike than different, Pinot Days brings together pinot producers representing every California appellation, style and price point, as well as a few from Oregon and Burgundy. Their real differentiator is the fact that wine makers and winery owners do the actual pouring. Join other Pinot noir fans at the Barker Hangar, Santa Monica, California, January 14th - 17th, 2010 for the First Annual Pinot Days Southern California. Learn more at PinotDays.com.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 4.
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lynn krielow chamberlain is an independent wine and food journalist and host of the "Wine and Dine" radio show heard on VinVillageRadio broadcast on wsRadio, the world wide leader in internet talk radio with over 4-million monthly listeners!
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WineFairy chats with Rex Stults and Pat Stotesbery on the new Calistoga AVA and Ladera Vineyards; and with Susan Boswell of Cht. Boswell Winery on Napa Green
Posted January 7th, 2010 by WineFairy
First segment of this weeks Show: Truth-in-Wine-Labeling for Consumers: Feds Approve Calistoga as American Viticultural Area - Rex Stults and Pat Stotesbery
Rex Stults, Napa Valley Vintners Industry Relations Director and Pat Stotesbery, Past President, the Napa Valley Vintners (NVV) join us to discuss the long-awaited recognition of one of America's most historic wine places, Calistoga, an area within the Napa Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) has been approved by the Alcohol Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) of the US Department of Treasury as the Calistoga AVA, effective January 7th, 2010. Though the region has been renowned for winemaking for more than a hundred years, wine producers that sprung up in recent years began using the name Calistoga in their brand labeling. Their wine did not come from the proposed AVA and they were road-blocking vintners and growers by opposing the recognition so that they could continue to mis-describe the wines they produced--branding them as from Calistoga when they were not.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 1.
Second segment of this weeks Show: New Napa Valley Calistoga AVA Protects Geographic Identity in Wine Labeling - Pat Stotesbery and Rex Stults
Ladera Vineyards vintner and co-founder Pat Stotesbery enjoys farming on Howell Mountain above the fog line at 1,600 feet above the Napa Valley floor. I ask, why is he a passionate advocate for Calistoga's right to become the latest egg in the larger Napa Valley nest of American Viticultural Areas. It boils down to integrity and history: the World Trade Organization's Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), which protects geographic identity in wine labeling. Ladera Vineyards produces hillside estate Cabernet Sauvignon from the Lone Canyon Vineyard and the Howell Mountain Appellation. Rex Stults, Industry Relations Director for the Napa Valley Vintners, has worked with Stotesbery on the Calistoga AVA and other issues.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 2.
Third segment of this weeks Show: NAPA GREEN: Business and Government Working Together for Sustainable Future - Susan Boswell
Susan Boswell, vintner and co-founder of Chateau Boswell Winery, on the Silverado Trail, currently serves as Chair of the Napa Green program. Founded in 2002, Napa Green includes two distinct certifications: Napa Green Winery and Napa Green Land. In 2007, Chateau Boswell Winery became the first winery to be certified Napa Green in the Napa Valley and is in line to become a Napa Green Land certified property in 2010. Chateau Boswell is not only a sustainable agricultural property, but also a totally organic one.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 3.
Fourth segment of this weeks Show: Napa Green Certified Chateau Boswell Winery Producing Small-Lot Handcrafted Wines for over 30 years - Susan Boswell
Michael A. Giarraputo, CEO, a winemaker, wine lover and award-winning marketing professional, founded the "Think Tank Wine Company" in 2007 on the idea that producing world-class wine should give back to the environment, not take from it. Empowered by the availability of world-class certified organic varietal grapes and access to a state-of-the-art winemaking facility in San Francisco. Giarraputo's career in marketing spans nearly 25 years and began with successful positions at several large advertising agencies in New York City.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 4.
lynn krielow chamberlain is an independent wine and food journalist and host of the "Wine and Dine" radio show heard on VinVillageRadio broadcast on wsRadio, the world wide leader in internet talk radio with over 4-million monthly listeners!
Click HERE to join us now!!!
Click a logo to connect with VinVillage!
WineFairy chats with Devon Segel on GoBYO; Gwendolyn Osborn of Wine.com; Tiziana Frescobaldi of Frescobaldi; and Crushpad winemaker Michael Giarraputo of Think Tank Wines
Posted December 31st, 2009 by WineFairy
First segment of this weeks Show: GoBYO.com caters to top Wine Consumption Markets in the US - Devon Segel
Devon Segel is the CEO of DiningInfo.com which gave birth to GoBYO.com in April of 2009. GoBYO provides access to the most comprehensive database of restaurants that allow you to bring your own wine (BYO), with a quick and easy way to find restaurants by name or within a selected distance from a particular address. At present, 10 major US metropolitan markets are represented: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Southeast Florida and Washington/Baltimore. The home page also provides options to search by types of cuisine, restaurant features and corkage fees.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 1.
Second segment of this weeks Show: Wine.com, the #1 Online Wine Retailer in the U.S. Ships to 90% of the Country - Gwendolyn Osborn
Gwendolyn Osborn, Wine Director, Wine.com joins us to talk about Wine.com's third annual top 100 which represents roughly the top one percent of wine sold nationally. Osborn answers questions on her blog at Wine.com including money saving tips, and wine and entertaining ideas. Two new announcements from Wine.com include the holiday launch of Wine.com's first iPhone app available for free at iTunes App Store and a new food & wine pairing tool on their website aptly called Wine & Dine.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 2.
Third segment of this weeks Show: The unique Marchesi de Frescobaldi 700 year Wine-Making Family Dynasty of Tuscany - Tiziana Frescobaldi
Tiziana Frescobaldi hails from a Florentine family with thirty generations dedicated to the production of great Tuscan wines, 5,000 hectares of estate properties, over 1,000 hectares of estate vineyards, nine estates in Tuscany, all of them located in esteemed viticultural areas and dedicated to the production of prestigious DOCG, DOC, and IGT wines. Each estate is the unique expression of its local terroir. We touch upon the following: Castello di Nipozzano, Castel Giocondo, Tenuta di Castiglioni, Campone Brunello di Montalcino and the very smart, fruity, soft Remole. Recently, Wine Spectator 2009 awarded Castelgiocondo Brunello 2004 the 15th place among the world's "Top 100."
Click HERE to listen to Segment 3.
Fourth segment of this weeks Show: "Think Tank Wine Company" embraces Environmental Stewardship and True Varietal Expression - Michael Giarraputo
Michael A. Giarraputo, CEO, a winemaker, wine lover and award-winning marketing professional, founded the "Think Tank Wine Company" in 2007 on the idea that producing world-class wine should give back to the environment, not take from it. Empowered by the availability of world-class certified organic varietal grapes and access to a state-of-the-art winemaking facility in San Francisco. Giarraputo's career in marketing spans nearly 25 years and began with successful positions at several large advertising agencies in New York City.
Click HERE to listen to Segment 4.
lynn krielow chamberlain is an independent wine and food journalist and host of the "Wine and Dine" radio show heard on VinVillageRadio broadcast on wsRadio, the world wide leader in internet talk radio with over 4-million monthly listeners!
Click HERE to join us now!!!
Click a logo to connect with VinVillage!
