Uncork Your Mind

Debbie Gioquindo, CSW, WLS the Hudson Valley Wine Goddess takes the intimidation out of wine. This podcast you will find interviews with winemakers, interesting people and my show Winephabet Street.

Exploring the Rich Legacy of Kopke 1638 Port House with Carla Tiago 11/08/2024

Discovering Familia Vicente Pearce: A Journey of Passion, Wine, and Connection 10/29/2024

From Italy to New Jersey: The Unique Journey of the San Marco Grape at Bellview Winery 10/02/2024

Rediscovering Rkatsiteli: A Journey Through Time with Meaghan Frank and Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery 07/24/2024

Rediscovering Rkatsiteli: A Journey Through Time with Meaghan Frank and Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery So excited about this episode of Winephabet Street. We are exploring the letter 'R' with one of the wine world's hidden gems, the Rkatsiteli grape. This ancient varietal, which hails from the storied vineyards of Georgia, offers a captivating blend of history and unique flavors that few other wines can boast. Joining us is a very special guest, Meaghan Frank from Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery located in the Finger Lakes region of New York. Meaghan represents the fourth generation of her family's winemaking legacy, bringing both a deep respect for tradition and a fresh perspective to the craft. The Journey of Rkatsiteli The Rkatsiteli grape is considered one of the oldest known to viticulture, with origins that trace back over 3,000 years in the Republic of Georgia. This grape has survived and thrived through millennia, making it a testament to the resilience and enduring appeal of indigenous varietals. At Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, the journey of Rkatsiteli is intertwined with the personal history of the Frank family. Dr. Konstantin Frank, a visionary viticulturist and Meaghan’s great-grandfather, first introduced Rkatsiteli to the Finger Lakes, recognizing the region's potential to nurture this robust and versatile grape. Tasting Notes and Pairings Rkatsiteli produces a wine that is vibrant and aromatic, with a crisp acidity that makes it incredibly food-friendly. It exhibits flavors ranging from ripe apple and pear to herbal and floral notes, making it versatile for pairing with a wide array of cuisines. The wine's high acidity cuts through the richness of fatty foods and complements spicy and aromatic dishes, making it an excellent match for everything from Indian curries to traditional Georgian recipes. We were spoiled and got to taste 3 types of Rkatsiteli Dr. Frank produces. 2021 Amber Rkatsiteli - Spent 2 weks on skins. Fresh floral with orange blossom and chamomile 2022 Rkatsiteli - Bright acidity, notes of pear and nice salinity on the finish 2021 Rkatsiteli Extra Brut - it has a touch of dosage and spent 3 years aging. Nice floral notes and fresh and exciting. Sustainability and Innovation at Dr. Frank Winery Under Meaghan’s stewardship, the winery continues to focus on sustainable viticulture practices, including the use of solar energy and participation in New York State's Sustainable Winegrowing program. This commitment ensures that the legacy of Dr. Konstantin Frank not only preserves the environment but also continues to innovate and lead in the American wine industry. Experience and Education Meaghan’s approach to winemaking is deeply rooted in both tradition and science. With a background in wine business and enology, she blends practical experience with academic knowledge, enriching the winery’s offerings with both classic and innovative wines. Her involvement in teaching local WSET courses further reflects her commitment to educating others about wine, ensuring that the passion for viticulture is passed on to the next generation. Visiting Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery For those intrigued by the story of Rkatsiteli and the rich history of Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, a visit to the Finger Lakes offers a picturesque setting to experience these exceptional wines. The winery provides a range of tasting experiences that showcase the diversity of their wine portfolio, from their traditional method sparkling wines to their exquisite Rkatsiteli. Rkatsiteli is not just about a grape, but about the enduring legacy of a family that changed the American wine landscape. Meaghan Frank continues this legacy with a dedication to quality, sustainability, and education, ensuring that the history of Rkatsiteli will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come. We hope you enjoyed this exploration of Rkatsiteli on Winephabet Street. Join us next time as we uncover another exciting chapter in the world of wine. Cheers! /episode/index/show/uncorkyourmind/id/32276002

Questions You Always Wanted To Ask About Wine Part 1 04/24/2024

Petit Manseng: The Rising Star of Virginia Winemaking 02/25/2024

Petit Manseng: The Rising Star of Virginia Winemaking Welcome to another engaging episode of Winephabet Street, where the world of wine becomes more accessible, one letter at a time. In this episode we're delving into the letter "P" with a focus on Petit Manseng, a varietal that may not be on every wine lover's radar but certainly deserves a spotlight for its distinctive qualities and growing popularity, particularly in Virginia. Lori and I are joined by Lee Hartman from Bluestone Vineyards in Virginia, who shares his deep insights into Petit Manseng. Lee's journey in the wine industry, from his initial reluctance to his aha moment realizing the magic of winemaking, is as inspiring as it is educational. Bluestone Vineyards is nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, benefits from its unique microclimate and terroir, contributing to the distinctive character of their Petit Manseng. Petit Manseng is a white grape variety native to Southwestern France, now gaining ground in Virginia and even Arizona. Known for its small berries and loose clusters, is celebrated for its resilience against common vineyard challenges such as mold and mildew. Its ability to thrive in Virginia's climate, retaining acidity while achieving high sugar levels, makes it an intriguing varietal for winemakers. The grape's versatility shines through in the variety of styles it can be crafted from dry to dessert wines, showcasing its broad appeal. Lee Hartman's discussion on the challenges and rewards of working with Petit Manseng provides a fascinating glimpse into the art and science of winemaking. From the considerations in the vineyard to the decisions made in the winery, it's clear that crafting wine from Petit Manseng is a labor of love that requires patience, skill, and creativity. As Petit Manseng gains recognition beyond Virginia, exploring this varietal offers an exciting opportunity for wine lovers to expand their palates and discover new favorites. Whether you're a seasoned wine drinker or new to the wine world, Petit Manseng's unique profile is sure to captivate and surprise. For those eager to learn more about Petit Manseng and perhaps even taste it for themselves, Lee's invitation to visit Bluestone Vineyards is an open door to explore the beauty of Virginia wine country. As Winephabet Street continues to uncover the Winephabet of wine, Petit Manseng stands out as a memorable chapter that enriches our wine journey. So, pour yourself a glass, settle in, and listen to the podcast. /episode/index/show/uncorkyourmind/id/30100443

Exploring the Unique Flavors of Orange Muscat 01/30/2024

Legacy of Whitecliff's Olana Vineyard in Hudson NY: A Blend of History and Viticulture 01/15/2024

Clinton Vineyards Bought By Milea Vineyards-What It Means for Hudson Valley Wine's Future & Identity 01/04/2024

Clinton Vineyards Bought By Milea Vineyards-What It Means for Hudson Valley Wine's Future & Identity I wanted to talk to you today about an article that was in the Daily Catch. org. It was written by Scott Davis and full disclosure, I am quoted twice in the article. The article is about Milea Vineyard's plans. with Clinton Vineyards. And if you're not already aware, Clinton Vineyards was purchased by Malaya in 2022. And it was a great article, talks about Phyllis and Ben Feder, how they started Clinton Vineyards, with the Seyval Grapes, because they knew that the Save All Grapes grew well on that property. And they made Meth and Champagnois, still wine. So what they plan on doing with the Clinton Vineyards property is make it a sparkling wine house. Now, I thought that was great when I first started to read it. I'm like great because Long Island has Sparkling Point. They make sparkling wines from grapes grown in Long Island and we have Hearts and Hands that focuses on sparkling wines in the Finger Lakes. So why not in the Hudson Valley? Well, as I read deeper, here's what I don't agree with. They are going to create a label called Hudson Valley Vineyards. And in that label, you're going to have the left bank and the right bank. So I thought, oh, that's great! They're going to designate grapes from the right side of the river and the left side of the river. because that Hudson River can be a great divide. But no. The right bank is going to be the focus of sparkling wines made with New York grapes. The left bank is going to be sparkling wines coming from Oregon. Don't know if they're coming already made or if they're coming and going to be finished at Clinton Vineyards. Honestly, I am unclear on that. However, when people go out wine tasting in the Hudson Valley, they want to taste wines made in the Hudson Valley. They want to taste wines that the winemaker can speak to, the tasting room staff can speak to, that have the terroir of the Hudson Valley and when you're bringing in grapes from Oregon, you know, or already finished sparkling wine from Oregon. You're really kind of messing with the integrity of Hudson Valley wines and Hudson Valley wine region. And if people want to go and taste Oregon sparkling wine. They're going to do one of two things. They're either going to go out to Oregon and go wine tasting and purchase sparkling wines and bring them home or they're going to go to the liquor store and they're going to purchase a sparkling wine from Oregon. Um, I don't agree with that. The Hudson Valley is viticulture. We have wonderful winemakers. We have wonderful vineyards and Why bring Oregon wine into the Hudson Valley to sell? There's so many opportunities within purchasing grapes from New York State and making sparkling wine and even just purchasing grapes within the Hudson Valley and making wonderful sparkling wines with them Why are you going to bring Oregon sparkling wine to the Hudson Valley and include it in some type of wine tasting and put it on a label that says Hudson Valley Vineyards. The grapes are coming from Oregon. So, like I said, I don't usually get my point of view known because I kind of keep to myself. But this really got my panties in a bunch because I love the Hudson Valley. It's my baby. The wine region is wonderful. There's new wineries. There's younger winemakers. They're experimenting with different varietals. , and it's just a wonderful place for wine tasting. Bringing Oregon wine into the Hudson Valley to sell out of a tasting room, it messes with the whole integrity of our region that we have spent a long time building up. So I'm going to leave the article, link below. , make sure you click on it and read it and I'd love to hear,, your point of view on it. Thanks for listening. /episode/index/show/uncorkyourmind/id/29345878

Nero d'Avola: Sicily's Crown Jewel with VALLE DELL' ACATE's Gaetana Jacono 12/18/2023

Nero d'Avola: Sicily's Crown Jewel with VALLE DELL' ACATE's Gaetana Jacono I’m taking you on a virtual journey down Winephabet Street, where we dive deep into the world of N for Nero d'Avola, a red wine varietal from Sicily. In this episode of Winephabet Street, our special guest comes from the heart of Sicily, Gaetana Iacono from VALLE DELL' ACATE Winery. Gaetana hails from a family in the wine business for six generations. She has a great affinity for the native wines of Ragusa, Sicily. Determined to continue the legacy, she works hard to promote the value of the native wines of her region. The region is known for it s beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The Essence of Nero d'Avola Nero d'Avola is considered the 'king of the grapes' in Sicily. This variety is full-bodied yet versatile. Depending on viticulture and winemaking techniques, it can be made into wines to be enjoyed now or aged for later enjoyment. A Land of Diversity: Sicily's Wine Regions Sicily, described as a continent in itself, boasts a range of climates and influences. The eastern part, including Ragusa, is heavily influenced by Greek culture, offering many fish, vegetables, and cheeses. In contrast, western Sicily showcases stronger Arabian influences, focusing on agro-sweet flavors. The Unique Terroir of VALLE DELL' ACATE A standout feature of VALLE DELL' ACATE is its seven distinct soil types, each contributing uniquely to the flavor profiles of their wines. Gaetana's approach to vineyard management and wine production is meticulous, ensuring each variety expresses the essence of its specific soil type. Bridging Tradition and Innovation Gaetana's philosophy revolves around continuity and innovation. Her commitment to organic and sustainable practices, coupled with respect for the land's heritage, sets the stage for producing exceptional wines that truly reflect the spirit of Sicily. The Future of Sicilian Wines The potential for Nero d'Avola and other native varieties to gain international recognition is immense, especially as wine enthusiasts become more adventurous in their selections. Watch the webinar or listen to the podcast and learn more about the “King of Grapes” in Sicily. About the Hosts: Lori: Owner of Dracena Wines, wine educator, and advocate for Cabernet Franc. Debbie - Hudson Valley Wine Goddess: CSW,WLS,CSWS, author, and restaurateur, with a focus on wine education and promotion of the Hudson Valley wine region. Special Thanks to Our Guest: Gaetana Jacono: A visionary winemaker from VALLE DELL' ACATE, dedicated to preserving the legacy of Sicilian wines. What We Tasted VALLE DELL' ACATE Il Moro Sicilia 2019 -This wine was grown in the black soil. Smooth on the palate with nice raspberry with a hint of spice on the finish. VALLE DELL' ACATE BND Cerasuolo di Vitoria DOCG 2020 - This is grown in red soil. It's 60% Nero d'Avola and 40% Frappato. Bursting with raspberry on the nose. Very well-balanced palate with notes of red fruit and plum. VALLE DELL' ACATE Tane 2014 DOC - Serious notes of chocolate on the nose. It is a full-bodied wine, nicely balanced with notes of cherries, red currants, vanilla, and tobacco. /episode/index/show/uncorkyourmind/id/29135333

Indulge in the Virtual Journey to Argentina's Malbec Magic! with Winephabet Street 10/24/2023

Indulge in the Virtual Journey to Argentina's Malbec Magic! with Winephabet Street Join us on our journey to South America, where the rich soils of Argentina have produced some of the world's best Malbec wines with guest Veronica Kathuria from Wines of Argentina. Argentina it's located in the southern most corner of South America the South American content And it's about in a better way I have I will speak kilometers and miles because I still go to kilometers but it ranges about 38 kilometers distance from extreme north to extreme south. A Brief History: Malbec's Journey to Argentina Malbec's origins can be traced back to France, especially in regions like Cahors and Bordeaux (It's one of the Bordeaux 5). However, the grape variety found its true calling in Argentina, where it thrives. It was in 1868 when Michel Aimé Pouget, a French agronomist, introduced Malbec to Argentina. He had been hired to help improve the country's wines. Today, Argentina is the leading producer of Malbec, with the province of Mendoza being where the concentration of Malbec is grown. The high-altitude vineyards provide Malbec with the ideal conditions to develop deep colors, velvety textures, and an incredible range of flavors. Understanding Malbec: The DNA Deep Dive In 1992 it was discovered that Malbec is a sibling of Merlot. They share the same mother, Magdeleine Noire des Charentes, and its father is Prunelard. What Does Malbec Mean to Argentina? For Argentines, Malbec is more than just a wine; it's a symbol of national pride and a celebration of their unique terroir. Argentina has become synonymous with this varietal with over 75% of the world's Malbec acreage. Don't forget to mark your calendars for World Malbec Day, April 17 Our conversation with Veronica will provide insight into the Malbec grape, the growing climate in Argentina and travel to Argentina. Veronica is a wealth of knowledge and kept of captivated for an hour! Our conversation could have gone longer and we hope to have her back again. I hope you enjoy the episode. PS. My Boykin Spaniel Gigi makes her Winephabet debut during our tasting. Malbec Wines Tasted: Argento Single Vineyard Finca Agrelo Organic Vineyard Malbec 2021 - Notes of cooca, stewed tomates, smooth with black fruit, baking spice and nice acid on finish. BenMarco Sin Limites Valle de Uco Organico Malbec 2020 - Intense color. You’ll get purple teeth color. Medim bodied. Not a heavy heavy red. Will drink nice in the summer with steak. More austere, nicely structured with dark plum and black fruit and refreshing acidity. Hint of cinnamon on finish. Alta Vista Single Vineyard Albaneve, Campo De Los Andes, Valle De Uco, Malbec 2018 - Alta Vista was the first Argentinean vineyard to produce single vineyard wine. Nice structured wine with big tannins and bouncing acidity. Notes of plum, blackcherry, leather and tobacco. /episode/index/show/uncorkyourmind/id/28412696

Lagrein Unleashed: A Journey into Alto Adige's Bold Red with Karoline Walch on Winephabet Street 07/07/2023

Lagrein Unleashed: A Journey into Alto Adige's Bold Red with Karoline Walch on Winephabet Street In the heart of Alto Adige, a region nestled amidst snow-capped mountains and verdant valleys, thrives a grape as bold and characterful as the landscape itself - Lagrein. Join us on Winephabet Street, as we delve into the fascinating world of this indigenous Italian variety, accompanied by a very special guest - Karoline Walch from the esteemed Elena Walch Winery. The Magic of Lagrein Born from Alto Adige's mineral-rich soils and varying climatic conditions, the Lagrein grape creates an intoxicating wine that commands attention. Its dark fruit flavors, robust tannins, and slight spiciness make for a compelling, multi-layered wine experience. Each sip of Lagrein hints at the very essence of the terroir it hails from, allowing us a taste of the unique microcosm that is Alto Adige. A Commitment to Sustainability The story of Lagrein is incomplete without a mention of the Elena Walch Winery. This family-owned estate is a bastion of sustainable winemaking and the birthplace of some of the finest Lagrein wines. The winery's commitment to the environment is reflected in their approach to viticulture, ensuring each vine is nurtured with utmost care and respect for nature. Meeting Karoline Walch Our journey into the world of Lagrein would not be complete without insights from an expert. That's why we're thrilled to have Karoline Walch join us on Winephabet Street. Daughter to Elena Walch herself, Karoline has been instrumental in shaping the winery's ethos and maintaining its position as a beacon of innovative winemaking practice. During our show, Karoline will delve into the intricacies of Lagrein, the winemaking process, and what sets their wines apart. Her passion for wine is infectious, and her knowledge about this unique varietal is sure to leave you wanting to explore more of what Alto Adige has to offer. The Unveiling So, if you're a wine lover with a curiosity for unique grape varietals, join us on Winephabet Street for our latest episode, "Lagrein Unleashed: A Journey into Alto Adige's Bold Red". Here's your chance to be entranced by the flavors of Lagrein and to learn from the expertise of Karoline Walch, from a winery that's a true reflection of innovation and sustainability. See you on Winephabet Street, where every bottle has a story, and every story takes us on a journey through the world's most cherished wine regions. Don't forget to bring your glass! /episode/index/show/uncorkyourmind/id/27398607

A Look into the Indigenous Grape Variety from Crete the Kotsifali Grape 05/09/2023

The Unique and Rare Jampal Grape: Exploring Portugal's Hidden Gem 04/12/2023

The Unique and Rare Jampal Grape: Exploring Portugal's Hidden Gem The Jampal grape, also known as Jampel or Malvasia Fina de Jampal, is a unique and rare grape variety native to Portugal. It is believed to have originated in the Douro Valley region. It is predominantly grown in the Terras do Dão region, located in the country's central northern part. The Jampal grape is a white grape known for its high acidity and aromatic qualities. It is said to produce wines with a rich, full-bodied flavor that is often described as having a mineral quality with notes of citrus, green apple, and stone fruits. Jampal grapes are known for their thick skin, which helps protect them from the intense heat and sun the region is known for. They are also known for their resistance to disease, making them a popular choice for growers in the region. Despite its unique and complex flavor profile, the Jampal grape has remained relatively unknown outside of Portugal. This is partly due to its rarity, as it is only grown on a small number of vineyards in the Terras do Dão region. In fact, as of 2021, only around 200 hectares of Jampal grapes were known to be cultivated in Portugal. March edition of Winephabet Street we explored the Jampal grape with Special guest Direu Vianna Junior MW. a renowned Portuguese wine expert, who will share his insights on the near-extinct Jampal grape. 🌟 Winephabet Street is a monthly series where Lori Budd of Draceana Wines and I work through the alphabet exploring wine and wine regions one letter at a time. The show is live on the third Monday at 8pm (but does change depending on our schedules) and is free, but you must register to attend. Put it on your calendar, pour yourself a glass of wine and hang out with us. It is sponsored by and . Listen to the podcast and you will: 🔍 Discover the history of Jampal 🥂 Learn about its unique flavor profile 🏞️ Explore winemaking techniques & regions 🎤 Hear firsthand accounts of reviving this rare grape /episode/index/show/uncorkyourmind/id/26521260

Winephabet Street: The Isabella Grape 03/06/2023

Winephabet Street: H is for Hondarrabi Zuri 01/30/2023

Winephabet Street: H is for Hondarrabi Zuri Have you heard of the Txakoli region of Spain and/or the Hondarrabi Zuri grape? First let me tell you how these words are pronounced. Txakoli is pronounced chah-kuh-lee and Hondarrabi Zuri is pronounced ohn-dah-rah-bee Zoo-Ree. Our January episode of Winephabet Street we explored the Txakoli region of Spain and the Hondarrabi Zuri grape with special guest Rick Fisher, Spanish Programs Director at the Wine scholar Guild. Winephabet Street is a monthly series where Lori Budd of and I work our way through the alphabet exploring wine and wine regions one letter at a time. The show is live on the third Monday at 8pm (but does change depending on our schedules) and is free, but you must register to attend. Put it on your calendar, pour yourself a glass of wine and hang out with us. It is sponsored by and Txakoli is a unique wine-growing region located in the Basque Country along the northern coast of Spain. The region is known for producing a distinctive and refreshing white wine made from the Hondarrabi Zuri grape. The Hondarrabi Zuri grape is an indigenous variety that is well adapted to the cool and damp climate of the Txakoli region. The grape produces crisp and zesty wines that are high in acidity and low in alcohol. The Txakoli wine-making process is also unique, as the wine is often bottled before it has completed fermentation. This results in a naturally carbonated wine that has a lively and effervescent character. The wine is traditionally poured from a height into glasses to create a frothy head and enhance its flavor and aroma. Rick demonstrates this during the webinar. In recent years, Txakoli and the Hondarrabi Zuri grape have gained international recognition and become increasingly popular with wine lovers. Despite this popularity, the Txakoli region remains small and traditional, with many vineyards using sustainable and organic methods of production. On this webinar, I was sipping on Txakoli Malda from the Getariako Txakolina D.O. Made with 100% Hondarrabi Zuri grapes. Aged for only a few months on fine lees prior to bottling. Tasting Notes: lots of green apple, lime zest, salinity, crisp, high acid and a minerality finish. /episode/index/show/uncorkyourmind/id/25776495

Have You Heard of the Graciano Grape? 12/27/2022

Have You Heard of the Graciano Grape? Have you heard of the Graciano grape? I didn’t until we featured it on Winephabet Street in November. Graciano is mainly grown in the Rioja and Navarra regions of Spain. It is difficult to grow, is low-yielding, late harvesting and susceptible to mildew. It is used a lot as a blending grape for its deep color, strong aromas and ability to age. Winephabet Street is a monthly series where Lori Budd of and I work our way through the alphabet exploring wine and wine regions one letter at a time. The show is live on the third Monday at 8pm (but does change depending on our sechedules) and is free, but you must register to attend. Put it on your calendar, pour yourself a glass of wine and hang out with us. It is sponsored by and In this episode we were joined by Josh Harp, winemaker at . Jada is a small winery with a 3000 case production. The wine we sampled during this webinar was Jada’s 2019 Hell’s Kitchen. It’s a blend of 55% Syrah, 17% Graciano, 15% Grenache and 12% Tannat from the Willow Creek District of Paso Robles. Aromas of cassis, plum and leather escaped the glass. The wine is serious but exciting. Nice expression of tannins, dark fruit, black currant with a plum pepperiness and a touch of earth on the finish. Very easy to drink! I will add, I did have a bottle of Ser 2018 Graciano in my cellar that I drank recently. Ser is women-owned and located in Santa Cruz, Ca. The grapes for this wine that was 100% Graciano came from Bokish Vineyard in Lodi Ca. It had lots of cherry aromas with hits of violets. This led to a palate that was soft, not complex with silky tannins and full of black cherry. There was a wonderful black pepper spice that is soft and lingers on the finish. Very easy drinking. Listen to the podcast and hear what Josh has to tell us about the Graciano grape and Jada Vineyards and Winery. If you find yourself drinking a glass or bottle of Graciano, please let me know what you think. /episode/index/show/uncorkyourmind/id/25443429

Winephabet Street Season 3 Episode 6- F is for Frappatto 11/03/2022

Becoming a Fan of Jumilla 10/26/2022

Becoming a Fan of Jumilla If you haven’t tasted wines from the Jumilla region of Spain, you must. You will become a fan instantly! Trust me! On October 12, I had the opportunity to attend Spain’s Great Match at the Mercado Little Spain, NYC, and learned a little more about the wines from this region of Spain. The Jumilla region has some beautiful wines, and the predominant grape is Monastrell. Take time to read the article and listen to the podcast about the Jumilla region and the wines. You will have a better understanding of the grapes and wines from this region. You will reach for a bottle next time you are in the wine shop. Here are some interesting facts about Jumilla. At the end of this article, please listen to the podcast about Jumilla. Jumilla is pronounced hoo-mil-luh There are 1600 growers and 42 wineries. It is located 60 miles inland and does get Mediterranean influence. The topography is high altitude with rolling hills. High altitude is between 1300 - 2950 feet above sea level. They have 3000 hours of sunshine. Great conditions for organic agriculture. 70% of the vineyards are certified organic. There are 8 red varieties and 8 wine varieties grown in the region. They produce 70% red wine, 5% wine, 4% rose wine, and 1% dessert wine. During the Jumilla seminar, we got to taste 8 wines. I wouldn’t hesitate to pick up a bottle. Parajes del Valle Bodegas y Vinedos Monastrell Organic 2020 - 100% Monastrell and aged in a concrete vat. Very fresh with red jammy fruit. Lots of red currants, cherry, and raspberry. Bodegas Cerron La Servil 2020 Monastrell - 96% Monastrell grown at a high altitude of 3000 feet. Aged in 5000 liters French oak founders. It shows some soft minerality and soft and silky red fruit with a hint of baking spice on the finish. Bodegas Luzon Altos de Luzon 2020 - 100% Monastrell from a single plot. Maceration for 10 days and aged 12 months is American and French oak. Fine tannins lace this wine with red and black fruit and sweet spice. Bodegas Juan Gil Silver Label, 2019 - 100% Monastrell, grown at an altitude between 1800 and 2300 feet. It spends 12 months in French oak. It’s a fresh, easy-drinking wine with mild tannins, floral notes, and fresh berries. Would work well with Thanksgiving dinner. Bodegas Vina Elena Familia Pacheco Barrica 2019 - This is a blend of 60% Monastrell 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Syrah from 30 - 40-year-old vines. Medium-bodied with notes of plum, red fruit, licorice, and a Syrah finish of blue fruit. Bodegas Carchelo Altico 2018 - 100% Single Vineyard Syrah. Aged 12 months in 225 Liter French Oak and 12 months in the bottle. Floral and fruity aromas with hints of violets. Fresh and silky on the palate with nice integrated tannins, blackberry, and spice. Bodegas Ego GORU 18M 2016 - 70% Monastrell, 20% Syrah 10% Petit Verdot from 50 year old vines. Aged 18 months is new French and American oak. Soft and complex on the palate with notes of blackberry, red currant, licorice, cinnamon, and vanilla. Nice integrated tannins. Bodegas Olivares Dulce Monastrell 2017 - This is a special wine that is not made every year. It’s 100% Monastrell from the oldest vines in the vineyard harvested into the fall. It spends 30 days in maceration. It is a sweeter dessert wine aged in concrete vats for 2 years. Aromas of black olives, tomato, balsamic, and figs lead to a rich palate with dark sweet fruit. Listen to the podcast and learn about the Jumilla region of Spain and its wines. /episode/index/show/uncorkyourmind/id/24809520

7 Facts About Madeira Wine 10/18/2022

7 Facts About Madeira Wine I got invited to a Madeira wine tasting a few weeks ago. Madeira? I realized I didn’t know much about this type of wine. I went to the tasting and attended the seminar and educated myself all about Madeira. Madeira is very versatile and pairs well with many foods. I’m going to give you 7 facts about Madeira and at the end is a podcast that will give you a better understanding of this wine from the seminar I attended with Bruno Almeida, Sommelier and Portuguese Wine Ambassador.I hope you learn as much as I did, and give Madeira a try. 7 Facts About Madeira Wine Madeira is a Portuguese island located off the coast of Africa. The wine produced on the island has the same name - Madeira. When Madeira wine is made using the Estufagem method, the wine can never be bottled and sold before the October 31 of the second year following the harvest. Wines made in the Canteiro method (fortified during or right after fermentation and aged in wood cask) can’t be sold until at least three years from January 1st of the year following the harvest. Grapes used to produced Madeira Sercial Verdelho Boal Malvasia Terrantez Madeira wines are classified Dry, Medium Dry, Medium Rich (sweet), Rich (sweet) Madeira Dry is made with the Sercial grape. Madeira Medium Dry is made with the Verdelho grape. Madeira Medium Rich is made with the Boal grape. Madeira Rich wine is made with the Terrantez grape. Designations of Madeira Wine Frasqueira - produced by the Canteiro system,referenced by vintage year and aged 20 years in wood. Colheita - indication of vintage year and aged in wood at least 5 years. Canteiro - Fortified during or right after fermentation. Aged in wood a minimum of 2 years. Can’t be subject to the heating production process, nor bottled aged with less than 3 years beginning with January 1 of the year following the harvest. Reserve (Old) - 5 years old. Old Reserve (Very Old) 10 years old. Extra Reserve - 15 years old. Selected, Choice ou Finest - Showing special quality for the age of the wine. Fine - Perfect balance in freshness of the acids and the aromas evolving with the aging in wood. Solera - produced by the Canteiro system and whose base wine is from only one harvest and aged in oak for 5 years. Rainwater - This wine will be pale to golden in color. The Baume degree (sugar content) will be between 1.0 and 2.5 and aged no longer than 10 years. Store Madeira wine upright The bottling date is always listed on the bottle. /episode/index/show/uncorkyourmind/id/24727728

Get To Know El Dorado Wine Country 10/01/2022

Get To Know El Dorado Wine Country Located 35 miles from Sacramento, California lies the El Dorado AVA. Designated in 1983 it covers the majority of El Dorado County with beautiful views of the Sierra Foothills. There are 40 wineries that grow 76 grape varietals and the highest altitude vineyards is 3,500 feet above sea level. We welcomed Kara Sather, Executive Director of El Dorado Winery Association, to talk to us and familiarize us with the El Dorado wine region. Pre-prohibition the El Dorado wine region had more vineyards the Los Angeles. The region is very sprawled out and not heavily populated, and you can see the mountains in Tahoe. The American River flows through El Dorado, which is one of the top whitewater rafting destinations in the world. This is a destination you can go wine tasting, hiking, skiing, and rafting. It’s a region you come to experience! We got to sample 2 wines from El Dorado - 2019 Skinner Native Red, El Dorado, and 2016 Toogood Estate Zinfandel, Fair Play. They both really show what nice wines the region produces 2019 Skinner Native Red, El Dorado - As one of the country’s first wineries, Skinner dates back to 1861. Wanting to make a unique wine, the Native Red was born. The wine is a blend of Petite Bouschet, Mission, Trousseau, Carignan, Cinsault, Grenache, Counoise, Mourvedre, Marsanne, Zinfandel, and Viognier. The wine is light in body with notes of raspberry, cranberry, and plum. It’s a fun wine that will be great for a Sunday afternoon. 2016 Toogood Estate Zinfandel, Fair Play - Located on 40 acres of rolling foothills, Toogood Estate Winery produced its first vintage in 2002. The 12 acres of vineyards are planted with Zinfandel, Primitivo, Tempranillo, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petite Sirah. In 2019 the Ron and Darin Mittelstaedt family purchased the winery. Their sons Bradley and Timothy work the day-to-day operation. The 2016 Zinfandel is a wine that needs to open for a bit. It evolves nicely! It is full of baking spices and ripe dark fruit. As it opens, there are some coffee and cassis notes. Listen to the podcast and familiarize yourself with the El Dorado wine region. It might be the next trip you plan /episode/index/show/uncorkyourmind/id/24553068

Delaware Grape with Abby Wilkens (Stamp) of Lakewood Vineyards 08/19/2022

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Interview with Dana Spaulding of Wander & Ivy 05/10/2022

Interview with Dana Spaulding of Wander & Ivy I had the wonderful opportunity to interview Dana Spaulding the Founder of Wander + Ivy. Wander + Ivy are classy single-serving wine bottles. Dana made the transition from the financial service industry to the wine industry after feeling that she was wasting wine. She would sit down at the end of the day and have a glass of wine while her husband would have a whiskey. She hated throwing out the wine after a few days. She searched for high-quality single-serving wine and couldn’t find any that was in line with what she was looking for. In the Spring of 2017, she took the leap and started Wander + Ivy. The bottles are very classy as is the label design. The labels feature animals that represent the region. On the front, they are serious animals and on the back, they are playful after they have drank their wine. The wines are sourced from different regions of the world; Italy, France, Spain, and California. Wander + Ivy gives back 1% of sales to charitable organizations that provide healthy and organic food to those in need. All the wines I tasted were nice but these three stood out. Wander + Ivy Chardonnay 2020 California - it’s a nice oaked Chardonnay. With that being said, the oak isn’t overpowering. The wine shows nuisances of pear, vanilla and green melon. Wander + Ivy Rose 2020 Languedoc, France - a blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Cinsault and 10% Syrah. Aromas of strawberry fields fill the glass. The palate shows minerality, orange peel, Macintosh apple and raspberries. It’s a very easy drinking wine. Wander + Ivy Red Wine Blend Valencia, Spain 2019 - a blend of 55% Bobal and 45% Merlot. The Merlot really shines through on this wine with the Bobal saying, “I’m here too.” Lots of red and black fruit with hints of cassis, vanilla and mocha. Watch the Webinar - one note..this is take two with this episode. We began taping a few weeks back and had issues. During this taping as Dana will say did not turn on her video because she recently had a baby and we had to film around baby time. That is an overlay picture from the first try. /episode/index/show/uncorkyourmind/id/23065361

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