Petra Wine Bar at Northstar Village, Lake Tahoe, features Unique Wines

Kali talks about Pride Mountain Wines
at luncheon at Petra

Kali Kopley has enlivened the Tahoe wine scene for several years now, with her Uncorked wine bars in Truckee, Squaw Valley and Tahoe City.  Petra, in the Village at Northstar, is a wonderful part of the group, with its selection of great food to match an equally great selection of wines.  The wine-dine events there are excellent, featuring small production wineries with interesting stories to tell.

Pride Mountain Vineyards, recently featured, produces award-winning wines famous for their concentration and richness. All Pride Mountain wines are sourced from 86 vineyard acres at 2100 feet elevation straddling the Napa/Sonoma county line.  This small family vineyard was originally planted in 1989. 

2012 Viognier introduced
by Stuart Bryan,
National Sales Director

The 2012 Pride Mountain Viognier features Sonoma grapes.  It is an expressive Viognier, with intense fruit and a bright acidity.  There is an enticing aroma of apricot, orange blossom and a waft of acacia that leads to a zing on the palate.  The stone-fruit flavor is enhanced by floral and mineral notes.  It was paired with a pea shoot, melon and basic salad.  14.3 percent alcohol.  $42 the bottle.

2011 Vintner's Select
Chardonnay, paired with
moussaka

The 2011 Pride Mountain Vintner’s Select Chardonnay, Sonoma, features a complex range of flavors including melon, green apple, pear and jasmine.  The winemaker notes that “The cool 2011 vintage provided the perfect growing conditions for ripening our estate chardonnay to a beautiful richness while maintaining a crisp, distinct acidity.” This wine is bright and expressive on the palate.  14.8 percent alcohol.  $48 the bottle.  It was perfectly paired with a moussaka of potato, eggplant and chevre. 

The 2010 Pride Mountain Merlot contains two-thirds fruit from Napa and one-third from Sonoma.  This is a Cabernet-lover’s merlot, with chocolate and raspberry/strawberry flavors that coat the top of the mouth with a lush and intense taste that is not tannic.   Personally, I am not a great fan of overly tannic wines, so I loved this Merlot!  Aroma of bright plum, cherry, mulberry and walnut are a wonderful introduction to this nice tasting Merlot. 14.5 percent alcohol.  $60 the bottle.   It was well paired with short ribs and heirloom tomatoes.

The 2011 Pride Mountain Syrah, Sonoma, will please the tannin lovers among you.  “Plum, blueberry, rhubarb, bacon, sweet black raspberry, white pepper, Alsatian spices, wild thyme and smoky embers are some of the intriguing flavors that lurk within this blue-black wine,” notes the winemaker.  14.2 percent alcohol.  $60 the bottle.  The pairing was a cheese-pear-honey 

dessert trio. 

Petra is located in the village at Northstar, 3001 North Village Drive, Suite 3112.  Winter hours are noon to 10 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday. 530.562.0600.  http://teloswine.com.   For more information on Pride Mountain wines, go to http://www.pridewines.com

Amazing Wine-Dine Experience at Restaurant Trokay in Truckee, CA

An unforgettable wine-food pairing experience waits for you at Restaurant Trokay in downtown Truckee.  I’m hoping to raid my piggy-bank so I can go again and enjoy the exquisite food and perfectly-paired wines presented by John and Nyna Weatherson at this very classy restaurant.  A word to the wise: allow plenty of time for the total experience.

Their website, restauranttrokay.com, refers to “superlative customer service” and that is simply an understatement.  From the time we were seated for dinner and paired wines until we stood up three hours later, everything was orchestrated to enhance our palate and assure the wine was just right in terms of temperature, presentation and timing.

Sorelle Bronca di Valdobbiadene Prosecco

We began with the Italian Prosecco from Sorelle Bronca di Valdobbiadene Superior D.O.C.  This extra-dry bubbly had apricot, pear and apple as its predominant flavors, an aroma of pear and apple, and the sweetness and fresh acidity  make it delicious by itself or as an appetizer wine.  11 per cent alcohol.  $12/glass, $38/bottle.

Prager's Gruner Veltliner

 

 

Grunerveltliner is a food-friendly wine, and Trokay makes it a practice to always have one on the wine list.  The one we tasted was from Austria, the Prager's 2011 Grüner Veltliner Federspiel Hinter der Burg.  The name "Hinter der Burg", which has not been changed since the 13th century according to wine importer WineBow, means behind the old castle Weissenkirchen.   Coaxed out of a 7 acre vineyard, this wine has aroma of citrus, spice and green apple, and taste of citrus with a pleasant herbal not and a good minerality. 12.5 per cent alcohol, $67/bottle.

Fans of Japanese sake too, the Weatherson’s presented the Rihaku (Dreamy Clouds) Junmai Tokubetsu Nigori Sake.  “Aromas of rice and ripe red plums. Bright, mouthwatering acidity leads to a soft and chewy texture from the unfiltered rice particles. The rice flavor is joined by gentle nutty and slightly fruity flavors in the long finish,” notes the winemaker. 15.5 per cent alcohol.

The 2010 Sauvignon Blanc from Gamble Family Vineyards in Napa has an aroma that is fresh and inviting, with notes of apricot, green apple and musky melon.  The flavor follows on with taste of mango, honeysuckle and candied orange, and layers of citrus and minerality.  13.5 per cent alcohol.  $10/glass, $35/bottle.

One of my favorite wines are those from the Languedoc region of France, and here at Trokay I tasted the 2012 Domaine de Nizas Rose blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre.  Delicious.   It is lush and lively, with aroma of strawberry, raspberry and spice.  Additional flavors of melon, orange zest, and a crisp and medium body.  14 per cent alcohol.  $10/glass, $37/bottle.

E Guigal Gigondas Rose;
Sequoia Grove Chardonnay

The tasting and food pairing went on and on… as it should in a fine dining restaurant.  Other wines we tasted were the 2009 E. Guigal Gigondas , a Rhone blend of a blend of 65% Grenache, 25% Mourvèdre, and 5% Syrah;  the 2011 Chardonnay from Sequoia Grove, Napa;  and the final touch was the 2010 Donnafugata Ben Rye Passito di Pantelleria, a sweet wine from Sicily.

Restaurant Trokay is located at 10046 Donner Pass Road, Truckee.  No reservations required at their wine bar, but for the full dining-wine experience, reserve at 530 582 1040.

 

This information first appeared in The Tahoe Weekly newspaper, where I write the Wine Time column, in August 2013  

Raley's Incline Village Provides Great Wine Selection

The newly renovated Raley’s in Incline Village gives wine lovers cause to rejoice.  Store Manager Mike Finn knows what he is doing in the Cellar section there, and it is easy to find good wines at reasonable prices.  The selection is large.  Through the end of June, there are some good specials, such as 30 percent off 6 or more bottles.

Plan to taste some nice wines every Wednesday in the Raley’s Cellar section; tastings will be from 5 to 7 p.m.

I spent an hour perusing the offerings and filled my 6 bottle carrier with the following:

2012 Fume Blanc from Ferrari Carano.  This wine, from Sauvignon Blanc grapes sourced in Sonoma County, has aroma of peach and mango, and clean citrus flavor of pineapple, pear and guava.  It has has bright acidity and a crisp freshness. 13.8 percent alcohol.  $19.99 every day value; special price early June was $15.70.

Klinker Brick 2011 Farrar Syrah, Lodi.  Using grapes grown near the Mokelumne River, it is beautifully balanced with aromas of white chocolate, bacon and tobacco and a velvety texture of black raspberries and licorice interwoven with exotic spice.  The winemaker notes the supple tannins and firm structure. 14.9 percent alcohol.  $21.41 every day value, $19.99 special.

I finished off my selection of California red wines with Rombauer’s 2008 Merlot, Carneros.  The winemaker notes: “Enticing and lively red color; beautifully aromatic with black cherry and ripe plum. On the palate a purity of blackcurrant, cedar and mint flavors blend together seamlessly. Soft and supple, this wine has a medium-bodied mouth-feel.” 14.4 percent alcohol.  $40.

The Hess Collection Napa Valley Chardonnay 2010 is a classic California chard.  It has layers of complex flavor, and various spice notes throughout the glass.  14.6 percent alcohol.  $21.99.

J Pinot Gris 2011 Russian River Valley is a layered and well-balanced wine that is perfect for summer sipping!  The winemaker notes:  “an enticing bouquet of Fuji apple, ripe cantaloupe, and apricot. The crisp, clean mouthfeel is bursting with flavors of lemon and lime. A hint of kiwi and sweet orange blossom honey on the palate complements the fruit and acid.”  14.6 percent alcohol.  $16.99.

In the extensive international section, I chose the Alamos Malbec, Argentina.  Both 2011 and 2012 vintages were in stock.  Regardless of vintage, this wine will be dark purple color, have aroma of black cherry, and a full and rich mouthfeel.  It’s my house Malbec. 13.7 percent Alcohol,  10.99/11.99 bottle

Raley’s is located at 930 Tahoe Boulevard (highway 28) in Incline Village, NV.

 

This information first appeared in The Tahoe Weekly newspaper, where I write the Wine Time column, on June 20, 2013   

California Cabernets: Many Choices Showcased at Prestigious Tasting

To many people, when you say “California Wines”, the mental leap is immediately to Cabernet Sauvignon.   In fact, the growing conditions in many parts of California emulate some of the best conditions for Cabernet in the Old World.

One of the most anticipated events on the tasting calendar each year is the special tasting of the California Cabernet Society, held recently in San Francisco.  For many of these wineries, the production is small and you might have to go to the winery tasting room or order directly from the winery if you want your own bottle.



Lauren Ackerman pours 2008
Cabernet Sauvignon from
Napa's Ackerman Family Vineyards

I started with the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon from Ackerman Family Vineyards in Napa.  Only 500 cases of artisanal certified-organic Cabernet are produced yearly, and the wine is held back a total of four years by barrel aging for two years and bottle aging for another two before being released each October.  This is a classic Cabernet, with deep fruit flavors and mellow tannins that will enable it to be cellared for 10-20 years. The wonderful aroma is redolent of deep blackberry, Bing cherry, sweet plum and rich mocha/toasty oak.  Decant before you drink.  $75 per bottle. 14.2 percent alcohol.     www.ackermanfamilyvineyards.com

 

The royal family of California wine, the Mondavi family, presented its 2010 Family Reserve “Generations”.  Pouring and discussing the wine was Alycia Mondavi,  a member of the fourth generation in the wine business.  This scrumptious wine is a blend of 77 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 13 percent Merlot, 8 percent Petit Verdot, and 2 percent Cabernet Franc.  It is elegant, balanced, and presents aroma of blackberry, cherry and toffee.  A full mouthfeel with berry and nutmeg leads to a rich finish. 15.3 percent alcohol. Internet pricing $40 per bottle.   www.cmondavi.com

 

Peju featured its new release, 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley.  This was my top choice; I liked the blackberry and raspberry flavors, with a bit of pepper and cocoa.  It’s a bright wine, yet with good structure and complexity, and it is ready to drink right now!  The ten percent petit verdot adds to its elegance. 14.3 percent alcohol. $50 the bottle.   www.peju.com

The Volker Eisele 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 79 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 18 percent Merlot and 3 percent Cabernet Franc.  Aroma of black fruit and vanilla leads to a taste of blackberry and black currant, and a crisp acidity. It’s a dry wine, with firm rich tannins.  14.5 percent alcohol. $45 the bottle. www.volkereiselefamilyestate.com

This information first appeared in The Tahoe Weekly newspaper, where I write the Wine Time column, on June 13, 2013   

Atlantis Casino hosts Incredible Winemaker Dinners

The Spirited Dining series offered in the Atlantis Casino Resort, Reno, is without question one of the best winemaker events anywhere.    I am fortunate to attend some wonderful winemaker events every year, but the winemaker series here is without question the best.    Recently,  Silver Oak Cellars wines were paired with Bistro Napa’s extraordinary cuisine.  Sommelier Christian O’Kuinghttons presides over impeccable service.  Atlantis Casino offers winemaker dinners every month at either Bistro Napa or the Steakhouse.   One word: GO.

 We began with the Twomey Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc, paired with a smoked and seared day boat scallop.  This 2001 Sauvignon Blanc carries the Napa designation as fruit is 65 percent Napa and 35 percent Sonoma.  The Napa fruit gives a great balance of citrus and mineral elements, and Sonoma fruit contributes guava and tropical notes.  Pineapple, a creaminess, and a freshness characterize this wine on the palate.  13.9 percent alcohol.   This vintage is sold out.  There may be some left to taste at Bistro Napa.

The Twomey Russian River/Alexander Valley 2010 Pinot Noir was paired with a house made charcuterie plate.  Twomey’s tasting notes match with my experience:  “dark ruby-red hue and a nose of blueberries, blackberries, red currants, fresh rose petal, violets and a hint of spearmint. On the palate, it has a refined attack with a beautiful balance of fruit and floral influences, a silky mid-palate and a fruit-sweet finish that lingers for minutes.”  13.6 percent alcohol.   $50 at the winery.  www.twomey.com

Charcuterie plate

 

 

 

 

 

The 2006 Twomey Napa Valley Merlot was delicious with a lobster-chicken roulade.  One of California’s few single-vineyard Merlot wines, it’s vinified with a Bordeaux technique that results in soft tannins, a crystal-clear clarity, and heightened aromas of black cherry and dark chocolate.  Taste is spicy and full-bodied with the berry fruit showing through.  14 percent alcohol.  2006 vintage is sold out, but the 2008 vintage is available.

Lobster-chicken roulade

The New York Strip steak was paired with two wonderful Silver Oak red wines:  The 2008 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2007 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.   The 2008 Alexander Valley is a rich full-bodied wine with great tannins and a lovely mouth-feel.  Garnet colored, with an aroma of ripe boysenberries and dark chocolate.   $70/bottle.  The 2007 Napa Valley has aroma of sandalwood and cedar, with additional sensation of black cherry, dark chocolate and roasted coffee.  Nicely concentrated fruit and spice with a slight tannin structure.    $115/bottle    Both are 13.9 percent alcohol.

The Spirited Dining events at Atlantis Casino Resort Spa, Reno, are an excellent way to taste fine wines and great cuisine in an atmosphere of exceptional service.  Reserve at 775.824.4111.  More information at www.atlantiscasino.com

This information first appeared in The Tahoe Weekly newspaper, where I write the Wine Time column, on March 28, 2013   

Adobe Road Wnemaker hosts dinner at The Resort at Squaw Creek

Scorsone pours for Cathy Krauss,  my
wine writing assistant at Tahoe Weekly

When an enthusiastic young winemaker comes to a winemaker dinner that is well thought out, that’s the best! This was the case at a recent Six Peaks Grille winemaker dinner, part of an ongoing series hosted in this fine dining restaurant at The Resort at Squaw Creek. This winemaker was Michael Scorsone of Adobe Road Wines, a Sonoma winery that specializes in small lot, handcrafted wines.


Michael Scorsone brings a culinary background to his winemaking, and that means very food-friendly wines. His family is a deeply rooted Sicilian “food and wine family”, he noted. He is also a graduate of one of America’s top culinary schools, The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York.

Adobe Road produces between 3000-4000 cases of wine yearly, depending on the harvest. Adobe Road’s 12 different wines are produced from local grapes, sourced through long-term leases with growers. The winemaking style is “very traditional”, according to Michael, “ and we like to show a lot of personality in the wine.” Winery owners Debra and Kevin Buckler apply the same attention to detail in their wines as was done in their other business, professional motorsports.

We began the dinner with the 2009 Adobe Road Dry Creek Green Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc. “We pick our grapes riper than other Dry Creek wineries, in order to give us that unique texture, resulting in a food friendly wine. We also barrel age our Sauvignon Blanc, which is not often done in California,” Michael said. The result is a delicious wine that’s golden in color, and tastes reminiscent of a Gravenstein liquid apple pie. There’s caramel, vanilla, nectarine and peach tones, with a citrusy tint. Some spice and tropic fruit add to the flavor profile. 14.1 percent alcohol, $19 the bottle at retail, slightly more at Six Peaks’ tableside. Chef Chad Shrewsbury of Six Peaks Grille paired this wine with pan seared scallops with wild mushroom, cockle and carrot touches in this dish.

For the main course of this dinner, filet mignon, the beef practically called out for a Pinot Noir, and the Adobe Road 2006 Russian River Pinot Noir was a great choice. The grapes are sourced from the O’Neel Vineyards in Russian River, and this area is a pinot noir growing region that is among the warmest in California. Only 250 cases of this wine were produced. The wine was full-bodied with enticing aromas of red cherries, cedar and spice. Sadly, this vintage is now sold out, but the 2007, also sourced from the O’Neel Vineyards, also is yummy with aroma of strawberry jam, raspberry and allspice. Fine tannins give a silky mouthfeel. 14.1 percent alcohol in the 2007, $48 the bottle at retail, slightly more at Six Peaks’ tableside. You might consider this for your holiday wine.

The 2006 Adobe Road Knights Valley Bavarian Lion Vineyard Cabernet concluded the dinner, paired with a selection of California cheeses and seasonal fruits. This wine is made from grapes that are grown on the valley floor where the Bavarian Lion Vineyard is located, so the berries are small and the vines must struggle. The result is a concentrated flavor, and it is a rich and almost chewy Cabernet, very classic in style. Strawberry and chocolate flavors follow this wine from the front of the tongue to its long finish. Cedar, dark raspberries, a hint of anise, cloves and black olives make this a classic Cabernet. It was aged for 24 months in French and American Oak. 15.8 percent alcohol, $48 the bottle at retail, slightly more at Six Peaks’ tableside.

The Six Peaks Grille is located in The Resort at Squaw Creek, 400 Squaw Creek Road, Olympic Valley, CA (530) 583-6300 for reservations. www.squawcreek.com. More information on Adobe Road: www.adoberoadwines.com

Tahoe Yacht Club Winemaker Dinners Feature Unique Wines and Wineries

lef to right, Erik Miller of
Kokomo Wines, Andreas
Papaliolios of VinoClast

There’s a very wine savvy young man, Andreas Papaliolios, who is guiding the Tahoe Yacht Club into a wine program including winemakers dinners that are outstanding. Andreas has a wonderful palate and a taste for the unusual wine and an interest in independent-thinking winemakers. So it was with delight that I attended the Kokomo Wines dinner at the Yacht Club recently.


In part, the delight comes from hobnobbing with a fellow Hoosier, namely owner/winemaker Erik Miller, and in part from enjoying the fine job of paired foods due to the skill of guest chef Scott Yorkey of Tahoe City’s Jake’s-on-the-Lake.

Kokomo Wines is a Sonoma County winery that produces 5000 cases total of some very good wines. We started nibbling appetizers with a 2010 Grenache Rose, with fruit sources from Pauline’s Vineyard in Sonoma. This light and refreshing rose had both aroma and taste of strawberry and red grapefruit. Winemaker Miller attributed the dryness of this rose to the gravelly soils in the Dry Creek area, and also the fact that he decided to go with a cool fermentation process, essentially treating it like a white wine. 14.1 percent alcohol. Only 150 cases made, just released in May 2011. $20 the bottle.

The Kokomo 2009 Chardonnay, Peter's Vineyard, Russian River Valley, was served with a halibut cerviche stack with salmon carpaccio. This Chardonnay has tremendous balance and complexity. Winemaker Miller notes that this is one of the last fruits they harvest each year, as the vineyard is ten miles off the Pacific Coast and these grapes ripen late. “We’ve been told that this is a far west as you can ripen Chardonnay,” Miller said, “and so these grapes have a lot of hang time.” In the winemaking process, Miller decided to keep this wine in French oak for 16 months, resulting in a very creamy chardonnay with a nice citric bite and some interesting acidity on the side palate. 14.5 percent alcohol. $28 the bottle.

A pheasant roulade was the next course, served with a 2008 Pinot, Peter’s Vineyard, Sonoma Coast. This is a winemaker’s reserve wine, truly scrumptious and worth the price ($48 a bottle, only 485 cases produced) . Erik Miller’s grower-partner in the enterprise, Randy Peters, manages the vineyard that produced the grapes for this wine. The vineyard is a former Granvenstein Apple orchard that was replanted in the early 80's by Randy. The wine is redolent of intense black fruit, with mellow tannins on the top palate, a tinge of smokiness, vanilla and spice. 14.1 percent alcohol.

Kokomo’s 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon is also a winemaker’s reserve selection. Grapes were sourced from the Mountainview Ranch in Dry Creek Valley, and it is a jammy jammy jammy cab that paired perfectly with the braised bison short ribs over polenta. Taste and aroma or Blackberry, black cherry, the wine offers a nice tannin on the mid palate as it opens up. Fermented in stainless and then put in 100% French Oak barrels for 20 months. Only 145 cases were made. 14.5 percent alcohol, $45 the bottle.

Finishing the event, the 2008 Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanch from the Timber Creek Vineyard was the perfect dessert wine, sweet but light . Apricot, honey and a little honeysuckle flavor was ideal with the Stilton bleu cheese and Fiji apple serve over basil sorbet. 11.8 percent alcohol, $28 the bottle.

Kokomo Wines is located at 4791 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA (Sonoma County). www.kokomowines.com

Interested in a tour or membership in the Tahoe Yacht Club? Contact general manager Marianna Dye at (530) 581-4700 or stop by at 700 North Lake Blvd. 2nd Floor in Tahoe City.

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© 2011 Barbara Keck

For more information on dining and the wide range of activities around Lake Tahoe, see the online version of The Tahoe Weekly. This article appeared in my column "Wine Adventures" in July 2011.

Book in Process: "Mountain High Wine: The Sierra and Its Foothills".

Uncorked Tahoe City: Tastes by the Glass, and Great Bottles for Dinner

Uncorked Tahoe City in the Cobblestone Center is the newest venture of Kali Kopley and partners Debbie and Marc Metcalf. We know that Kali has one of the best palates around. Mark and Debbie bring experience and enthusiasm of wine afficianados to Uncorked.

You’ll enjoy yourself in this revitalized wine bar/wine shop. Originally opened as Corkscrews in 2009, the new décor is warm and welcoming, the noise level is under control, and the selections are great.

Since Zinfandel is a favorite of Mark and Debbie, they have stocked some wonderful Zins. “It is more difficult to make a Zinfandel than anything else,” explained Marc Metcalf. “Zinfandel as a variety is hard to grow. When a winemaker produces a Zin that is varietally correct, it is a spectacular wine.”


A favorite is 2008 Mauritson Rockpile Zin, a single vineyard “hallmark” varietal. A Grand Opening event recently featured Clay Mauritson, third-generation winemaker, who noted why this is such a special wine.

“Our Family’s Rockpile Ridge Vineyard is located at nearly 1,200 ft elevation in the Rockpile appellation, Sonoma County. We pick the blocks at different times, and ferment these separately to insure the integrity and uniqueness of the individual blocks. Working with nine amazingly distinct blocks is a winemaking dream come true, and is what makes our Rockpile Ridge Zinfandel so spectacular. 2008 was an interesting year to say the least. In fact, if we never have another year like it, it will be too soon. One of the worst frosts that we have seen in 40 years, gusting winds during bloom, an uncharacteristically hot September, and we ended up with about 50% of our normal production. Even so, the quality is as good as ever, but there is just not very much of it!” 15.5% alcohol, $36/bottle. (PHOTO: left to right, Clay Mauritson, Debbie and Marc Metcalf)

The wine bar will host a number of winemakers throughout the year, but their daily wine-by-the-glass menu encourages stopping in any day. It changes daily, but here’s what I tasted:

Two offerings by Fort Ross, which draws its fruit from a necklace of small mountain vineyards on the Sonoma coast. The 2006 Fort Ross Pinotage has classic plum on the palate, with a beautiful dark ruby hue and a concentration of bright, bold and luscious flavors. Grapes come from Fort Ross proprietary clones, MM1 and MM3, that were developed from bud wood imported from one of the most select Pinotage vineyards in South Africa. 14.1% alcohol, $12 the glass, $30 the bottle.

The 2007 Fort Ross Pinot Noir is a deep garnet in color, and this is prelude to a full body with aromas of dark fruit and black tea, and taste of black cherry, raspberry, earthy mushroom, and even some hints of sage. 91 points- Wine Spectator. 14.5% alcohol, $12 the glass, $29 the bottle.

The 2008 Voss Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley, has aroma of lemon peel and white flower, taste of grapefruit, honey and a hint of spice and mineral. 11.5% alcohol, $9 the glass, $21 the bottle.

The 2009 Frostwatch Kismet White Blend, Bennett Valley-Sonoma, is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, leaning this year heavily on Sauvignon Blanc. It has bright and refreshing flavors of passion fruit, nectarine, fig and lemon, and a rich texture. 90 points- Wine Spectator. 14.3% alcohol. $10 the glass, $21 the bottle.

Uncorked Tahoe City is located in the Cobblestone Mall at 475 North Lake Blvd., Suite 151, Tahoe City, CA. Open daily noon to 8 p.m. Telephone 530.581.1106


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© 2010 Barbara Keck

For more information on dining and the wide range of activities around Lake Tahoe, see the online version of The Tahoe Weekly. This article appeared in my column "It's Grape" in October 2010.

Watch for my forthcoming book: " Wineries of the Sierra and Its Foothills". Publication date early Summer 2011, The Wine Appreciation Guild Publishing Division

Treasured Wines from Ferrari-Carano at Crystal Bay Steakhouse

You know from past columns about the outstanding wine list at Crystal Bay Casino’s Steakhouse restaurant in Crystal Bay, NV. When you combine sommelier Patty Ruhl’s talents with her extensive wine industry contacts and the result is a WineMaker Dinner, clearly the event will be incredible.

The Steakhouse holds WineMaker Dinners throughout the year, so be sure to check their website for upcoming events. The Ferrari-Carano WineMaker dinner hosted earlier this summer was special, as the Carano family are Nevada natives who live in Reno, and have ownership in both the El Dorado and the Silver Legacy Casinos there. So this melding of high-end casino restaurant and the Ferrari-Carano high end wines was perfect.

Ferrari-Carano's 19 estate vineyards in four appellations total over 1400 acres, and the 1.1 millilon vines under cultivation are used to produce over 24 different wines. This review focuses on the 5 wines presented at the WineMaker Dinner. Prices quoted are winery prices.

The 2009 Fume Blanc was served to accompany a nice selection of passed appetizers. This wine is made of 100% Sauvignon Blanc grapes, and aged in a combination of old oak and stainless steel. There are melon and fig notes that predominate and reach through the crisp freshness of the wine. I liked the subtle oak character from the barrel ageing and felt that it added good complexity to the wine. 13.9% alcohol. $15 the bottle. And oh by the way, Rhonda Carano has a recipe on the Ferrari-Carano website for Spicy Lime Ginger Grilled Shrimp that would pair fantastically with this wine…

The 2008 Chardonnay, Sonoma County, was paired with pine nut crusted halibut filet with braised leek, fennel and white truffle oil. Made from 60 individually vinified lots, it’s a classic California chardonnay, which is to say, yummy. It has apple, pear, honey, butter cream and honeysuckle floral notes, and a great balance of fruit and caramel flavors. Did I taste marshmallow too? The toasted oak finish was nice. 13.9% alcohol. $23 the bottle.

2007 Merlot, Sonoma County, is a velvety wine with a nose of fresh cherries, pomegranate and rhubarb pie. You will pick up flavors of strawberry, brown sugar and crème brulee too. There is 3% Cabernet Sauvignon blended to assure a rounded flavor. It has a nice balance of fruit, tannin, and oak. 13.9% alcohol. $24 the bottle. The 2007 Merlot was paired by Crystal Bay Steakhouse Chef Geno Dugan with Merlot-marinated skinless Peking Duck breast, served with pommes frites and blueberry cassis sauce.

Tresor is a term you won’t hear commonly, but the Ferrari-Carano 2006 Tresor is indeed a treasure and that is the source of this fine wine’s name. It is a blend of the five classic Bordeaux varietals – Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc – from the best selections of Ferrari-Carano’s vineyards in Alexander and Dry Creek Valleys. The winemaker’s notes: “Delicious aromas of Bing cherries, blueberry preserves and an herbal, black tea leaf nuance combine with an elegant mid-palate of fresh-picked berry and roasted mocha notes. With a full bodied and richly-textured tannin profile, this wine’s upfront silkiness and roundness make for a delicious selection now and will drink well for 7-10 years.” 14.8% alcohol, $58 the bottle. Paired with Roast loin of lamb en croute, with fungi duxelle rapini.

Dessert was a dark chocolate cappuccino cake. The 2008 Eldorado Noir (Russian River Valley) had an aroma of rose petal, and berries. It is not too sweet, and despite its intensely aromatic nature, it is fresh and clean tasting. A limited release wine, blended from 100% Muscat grapes, $28 the half bottle. Only 11% alcohol!

The Crystal Bay Steakhouse is located at 14 State Highway 28, just at California/Nevada border. Reservations are suggested. 775 833 6333. For more information on the wines, go to http://www.ferrari-carano.com/

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© 2010 Barbara Keck

For more information on dining and the wide range of activities around Lake Tahoe, see the online version of The Tahoe Weekly. This article appeared in my column "It's Grape" in August 2010.

Watch for my forthcoming book: "Wineries of the Sierra and Its Foothills". Publication date early Summer 2011, Wine Appreciation Guild Publishing.
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Squaw Valley Village: September Alpen Wine Festival Showcases Good Wines for a Good Cause

The 21st Annual Alpen Wine Festival, held in September, is a not-to-be-missed event for wine aficionados and those who want to learn more about wine. Held every year at the Village at Squaw Valley and hosted the great wine bar there, Uncorked, the event helps raise money for The Huega Ceter for Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The Huega Center teaches people with MS how to use exercise to help manage their life with this chronic disease.

More than 40 wineries poured samples in the village setting, surrounded by Squaw’s beautiful Alpine-like scenery. There were so many wonderful wines to taste and enjoy, but here are a few that we found noteworthy.

Grant Family Winery’s California Tempranillo was a standout! This varietal has been a recent darling of the West Coast wine industry, and long a favorite of those who love wines from Spain. Jon Grant, winemaker, produced his tempranillo from grapes grown in the Madder Lake Vineyard near Clear Lake in Lake County, CA. Dark purple in hue, this tempranillo features aroma of plum, leather, mineral, spice, and a taste of complex berry, cherry and mineral. Bold and balanced tannin on the palate. Only 150 cases produced. $24/bottle.

The Alpen Cellars Winery poured a 2007 Pinot Noir with a yummy aroma and a lovely jammy taste. Located in Trinity County, this mountain winery grows early maturing vinifera grapes such as White Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The 2007 Pinot Noir is a great red wine for dinner with pasta, chicken, red meat, cheese. Aroma of black cherries, plum and black pepper. Taste of cherries, cranberries. 13.5% alcohol. Approx $17/bottle.

Chatom Vineyards is located in the breathtaking Esmeralda Valley of Calaveras county, a short distance from Murphys in the Sierra Foothills. The 2005 Gitano-Sangiovese is made from 100% estate grown grapes, and the result is a taste of spice, plum, raspberries, and a hint of anise and chocolate. I enjoyed the way this wine lingered with an herbal finish too, and the spice persisted. 14.9% alcohol. Only 812 cases produced. $16/bottle.

Andrew Geoffrey Vineyards made only 1700 cases of their 2005 Diamond Mountain District Cabernet Sauvignon. For those who like a complex wine with a strong tannic backbone, you’ll enjoy this peppery-tasting high alcohol wine. Their estate vineyard is located atop Diamond Mountain in the Diamond Mountain District sub-appellation of the Napa Valley. John Gibson, winemaker, has blended the finest lots produced from the varietals grown in the vineyard to produce a sophisticated and balanced age-able wine. 15.8% alcohol. $75/bottle 92 points Robert Parker.

Stark Wine poured their Damino Vineyard 2007 Viognier, with grapes sourced from the Sierra Foothills AVA. It has aroma of peach and pear, but the honeysuckle is what struck my nose as truly aromatic. Taste of tropical fruit. Winery owner Jennifer Stark and her husband Christian Stark, the winemaker, pride themselves on using Sierra Foothills grapes to produce fullbodied wines that are immediately drinkable but also have extended aging potential. 14.5% alcohol. $25/ bottle. Only 208 cases produced, so contact them soon!

Truchard Vineyards treated us to a glass of their 2007 Chardonnay. This Napa winery, established in 1974 in the Carneros area, produces Chardonnay that benefit from the marine soils and cooler temperatures of Carneros. This 2007 chardonnay has an intense fruit aroma of tropical fruit, lemon, vanilla and spice and flavor of honey, green apple and fresh pear. This complex wine has great acidity, minerality and a finish of toasted oak. 14.1% alcohol. $30/bottle

The Alpen WineFest is held each year in late August or early September in the Village at Squaw Valley. Did I mention that it is a dog-friendly event?

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© 2009 Barbara Keck

For more information on dining and the wide range of activities around Lake Tahoe, see the online version of The Tahoe Weekly. This article appeared in my column "It's Grape" in September 2009.

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Elegant yet Unpretentious: Wine matched to Great Food at Soule Domain

Soule Domain in Kings Beach is the place to take a date for a very special meal, to celebrate a birthday or anniversary with friends and family, and to sample wines from a wonderful list of reasonably priced wines from some of the more interesting appellations in California. Charlie Soule is the heart of the restaurant, and his chef motto of “Buy local, cook global, eat universal” extends to the wine list as well.

Soule Domain sets the mood for an intimate exploration of wine and food pairings in the lovely log cabin environment with exposed rafters, a high roof, heirloom furnishings and vintage photos from around the lake. Subdued music – cool jazz or classical – sets the tone for an elegant evening.

Charlie’s philosophy as a chef is to work from good fresh products, preferably using local organics that are naturally raised. He specializes in unpretentious foods, prepares dishes that people understand and relate to, and his choice of wines is in line with that. He searches out wineries that are smaller, “family owner operated business like ourselves”, and if the grapes are sustainably grown, “that’s better yet”. A proponent of nearby wineries, such as those in Amador and El Dorado counties, Charlie says they “all have a lot to offer”.

From his wine list, Charlie Soule selected 3 whites and 3 reds for our wine-food pairing experience.

The first, a Swanson Pinot Grigio, Napa, was paired with an Ahi crudo tartare with olive tapenade . The wine is crisp and minerally, its slightly-astringent quality nicely balancing the food. Long before it was fashionable Swanson Vineyards has been making Estate Pinot Grigio. The fruit, sourced primarily from their Oakville vineyard, yields a wine that gives an aroma of citrus and guava, and the rich mouth-feel reveals more citrus and some pear. 13.6% alcohol.

Charlie also suggested a Sobon Estate Viognier to accompany the Ahi or any fish course, for that matter. Aroma of jasmine, lily of the valley, lavendar, Bazooka bubblegum, and a full-body taste featuring peach with a hint of minerality. 14.1% alcohol. Located in Plymouth, Amador County appellation.

Gold Notes’ Chardonnay originates in the Fair Play growing area of El Dorado County. It was beautifully paired with a scallop appetizer prepared with a white wine reduction of lemon, butter and basil.. Charlie Soule not only enjoys the Gold Note wines, but he has huge respect for the Winemaker/Owner of Gold Note, Kevin Foley. Gold Note makes small quantities of rich, complex wines, and the Chardonnay is lovely. It’s nicely oakey, a nice tannin on the front palate, well-balanced and crisp. Hints of citrus, pineapple, pear. 14.3% alcohol.

The first of the red wines selected was a 2007 Laetitia Pinot Noir, Arroyo Grande Valley- Monterey Coast. This is a somewhat young but robust Pinot Noir, but it opens up beautifully after 15 minutes or so and delivers magnificent flavor of spice, dark fruit, and an earthiness that went well with the pairing of duck salad finished with a sesame soy vinaigrette. A medium finish, and 14.1% alcohol. Charlie Soule considers this an excellent value in a pinot. We agree.

Also with the duck, a good choice would be the 2006 Gold Note Petit Sirah, which is fruit forward and a soft, and aromatic wine with hints of chocolate, black pepper, and citrus zest. 14.8% alcohol.

Truckee River Winery’s Zinfandel is what some might call a fruit-bomb. Absolutely luscious, and perfect with the lamb ravioli dish. We’ve written about this wine before… grapes sourced from the Gribaudo Vineyard-Lodi, only 250-300 cases produced. 14.3% alcohol. Get it while it lasts!

Soule Domain is located at 9983 Stateline Rd in Kings Beach, CA , and is open 7 nights everyday but Thanksgiving. Reservations are suggested, as this intimate and charming restaurant seats only 44; call (530) 546-7529.

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© 2009 Barbara Keck

For more information on dining and the wide range of activities around Lake Tahoe, see the online version of The Tahoe Weekly. This article appeared in my column "It's Grape" in September 2009.

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Plumpjack Café, where Wine is One of Life’s Great Pleasures

Plumpjack Café Squaw Valley began its wine program with the premise that “wine is one of life’s great pleasures and should be enjoyed as often as possible as part of a complete dining experience”.

Value is a cornerstone of their wine pricing policy, and the café carries that through to their excellent winemaker’s dinner series. Every day, Plumpjack Café offers a great selection of hard-to-find Californian wines, and collectible greats from Europe and the rest of the New World. They have an extensive wines-by- the- glass program.

The winemaker dinner featuring the wines of Flowers Winery, located in Cazadero, CA on the rugged Sonoma Coast, was perfection in both food and wine. Flowers wines are cool-climate wines that authentically express the unique character of the coolest areas of the Sonoma Coast appellation.

Flowers has a long standing reputation for its pinot noir, but we tasted some spectacular chardonnays also. They produce 15,000 cases of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

The winemaker dinner was beautifully crafted by Rick Edge, Executive Chef. It started with tartare of Angus tenderloin with capers, lime and fresh herbs. It was well paired with the Flowers 2007 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay. In color, light straw to golden. Layers of aroma include lemon drop, pear, and apricot. A nice finish, light oak, with a roundness in the mouth. A bit of minerality also made it a perfect pairing for a vegetarian dish prepared for my vegetarian friend, a flavorful risotto. 14.1% alcohol. 3 oz glass $6, 6 oz glass $12

Next course was a sweet corn soup with a warm mushroom salad, summer truffle and house cured lardo. Plumpjack makes this last ingredient themselves; it’s a fatback cured in lemon zest for more than four months. The dish was paired with Flowers 2006 Andreen-Gale Chardonnay, which has a richness and acidity that leads to a long and complex finish. On the nose, lemon and floral, and on the palate, a minerality that’s integrated with vanilla tones. Tom Hinde, CEO of Flowers, poured the wine, and called it a “feisty chardonnay.” 14.1% alcohol. 3 oz glass, $8. 6 oz glass, $16.

The seared Ahi Tuna main course featured a spiced heirloom tomato compote, Beluga lentils, and a pinot noir reduction. Our vegetarian friend had a lovely mushroom ragout for this course. Both dishes were perfect with the Flowers 2007 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, with its crispness and fruit-forward acidity. Aroma of cherry, raspberry, and plum are followed by hints of violet, spice, mineral, and pepper. A lovely juicy pinot noir, with strawberry, raspberry, black fruits and even a bit of leather. Nicely tannic for a lingering finish. Flowers tasting notes state that “The full spectrum of Pinot Noir clones is represented in this wine. Older traditional California heirloom selections such as Martini, 2A, and Pommard are complemented by the more recently available Dijon clones (115, 828, 667, 777), as well as low vigor selections from the Swan and Calera vineyards. “ 13.4% alcohol. 3 oz glass, $7. 6 oz glass, $14

The final course, desert , was an espresso panna cotta, with fresh cherries, chocolate soil, and a French macaroon. Perfectly paired with Flowers 2007 Perennial “Pinot Noir, Syrah” Sonoma Coast. The wine greets the nose with fruit aromas of plums, strawberry, blackberry, and raspberry, and on the palate, there is a lovely jamminess with hints of coffee, mineral and chocolate. You’ll find some tones of cranberries and cherry in the taste too, and a smooth texture made it a perfect end-of-the-meal wine. It’s a blend of 74% Pinot Noir, 16% Syrah, 8% Pinot Meunier, and 2% Chardonnay . 13.8% alcohol. 3 oz glass $5, 6 oz glass $10.

PlumpJack Cafe Squaw Valley is located at 1920 Squaw Valley Road in Olympic Valley. Dinner Thursday through Sunday . Reservations recommended; 530-583-1578.

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© 2009 Barbara Keck

For more information on dining and the wide range of activities around Lake Tahoe, see the online version of The Tahoe Weekly. This article appeared in my column "It's Grape" in the issue that bridges the end of August, beginning of September 2009.

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New World and Old World: Expect it all at Corkscrews in Tahoe City

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Bright and shiny, modern and edgey, enticing and welcoming … this describes the ambiance at Tahoe City’s new wine bar, Corkscrews. Located in the Cobblestone Center, this well-stocked wine shop and tasting bar is just what’s been needed in Tahoe City. Owner Elgin Marsted and her husband Brooks Marsted escaped from the stress of the Denver financial world to pursue their dream of promoting exceptional wines from small boutique wineries. Tahoe City was the location that resonated with them both!

“ We want our customers to feel like they are part of the secret of these winemakers and their art,” said Elgin. They’ve initiated a series called “Wind Down Wednesdays”: beginning at 5 p.m. , every wine-by-the-glass selection is half off. The offerings change weekly. It’s a great opportunity to sample several boutique wines before you decide what bottle must go home with you. And you might want to pair that with cheeses from Cowgirl Creamery, also on offer at Corkscrews.

Every Saturday from 4 to 7, different winemakers are featured. The tasting we went to featured wines from Redemption Wines, Venge Vineyard, and Macauley Winery.

Chris Cutler, proprietor of Redemption Wines is an old friend of the Marsted’s. Chris has been involved in wines since his years at Stanford’s MBA program, where he started Canvas Wines, a wine company that showcased the work of artists on custom labels; the company was self-funded with student loans. Chris grew up in an artistic family and art, as well as wine, is integral to his vision. He went on to found Redemption Wines, determined to focus on the finest quality wines and promotion of up-and-coming artists via the labels.

“I work with my heroes in winemaking – Emmanuel Kemiji, Byron Kosuge and Pat Knittel – to bottle balanced, age-worthy Pinot Noir. And I work with some of the best new artists in the world, like Gary Taxali and Thomas Campbell,” Chris said. “Together, we are bottling Redemption, which will always be as profound on the inside as it is on the surface.”

The Redemption 2007 Monterey County Pinot Noir is a Burgundian style pinot, characterized by acidity, age-ability, food-friendliness and finesse. In the glass, a delightful deep ruby color. Aroma of cherry and cocoa-powder. Flavors of strawberry and redolent black cherry, a toasty vanilla spice from barreling in 15% new oak, soft tannins, and not too much pepper; really yummy! Grapes are sourced from the Mission Ranch Vineyard of Arroyo Seco, a site which borders the Santa Lucia Highlands and shares its terroir and climate of hot days and cool foggy nights. Pair with lamb shanks, barbeque ribs, pastas with red sauce, or favorite pizza. 14.5% alcohol, 392 cases produced. $38/bottle.

Venge Champs de Fleur White Meritage, from Venge Vineyards is a delight to the nose. Many Venge wines are often available only on allocation. Fresh lemon grass scents of Sauvignon Blanc, with passion fruit, lemon drop and hints of white peach aromas from the Chardonnay and Viognier components. 60% Sauvignon Blanc; 30% Chardonnay, and 10% Viognier. Kirk Venge, winemaker. 14.5% alcohol, only 489 cases produced. $26/bottle.

Macauley Napa Valley Zinfandel is crafted by Kirk Venge, winemaker. It’s a beautiful deep purple in the glass. Aroma of raspberry, cherry vanilla and clove, followed by blackberry, spice and pepper. On the palate, a full tannin and a fine acidity results in a nicely structured wine. The Zin is blended with 16.6% Petite Sirah. Enjoy for 5 to 7 years! 14.8% alcohol. $35/bottle.

Visit Corkscrews at 475 North Lake Boulevard (Cobblestone Center), Tahoe City. They are open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m or later, every day. Be sure to order a cheese plate with your wines-by-the-glass, too! 530 581 1106.

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© 2009 Barbara Keck

For more information on dining and the wide range of activities around Lake Tahoe, see the online version of The Tahoe Weekly. This article appeared in my column "It's Grape" in August 2009.

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Barrel Tasting Tidbits

Is this Disneyland, or what? Stretch limos in black or white (take your pick, and then choose the 15, 20, or 25 foot versions), tour busses big and small, Maseratis with tops down, sedans with their hubcaps shined, and diamonds leathers tightjeans WOW. This was my first Sonoma barrel tasting.

Luckily, with the Back Lane Wineries of Sonoma guidebook in hand, I was able to avoid the wineries that seemed to be high on the tour-for-pay routes. I'd been told that "passionate amateurs are very welcome" in the smaller wineries, and this certainly proved to be the case.

The most welcoming was Hawley Winery, at 6387 West Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg. Youngest of the clan, Austin, obligingly put his scrambled eggs on bread and got in the pickup and drove down the hill from the family's nearby house. The experience was delightful! My guest, 22-year old niece Margaret and my authentic millennial and thus social media consultant, is packing a bottle of their 2006 Zinfandel, Ponzo Vineyard ($26) back home to Indiana.

Austin let us taste from a number of barrels, and the 2008 Cabernet is going to be SPECTACULAR. Too bad they don't do futures! They'd just bottled their 2007, but it wasn't yet labeled or for sale. I consoled myself with a bottle from one of the 400 cases they'd produced of the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon from the Saggio Hills Vineyard, Alexander Valley ($32.00). The back label says it all: "This wine is exactly what little cabernets dream of becoming when they grow up".

John Hawley and sons Paul and Austin have a wonderful back-lane enterprise producing wines that are top-shelf worthy. Go see them for yourselves.