Innholdsfortegnelse for June 2016 i Wine Enthusiast Magazine

Napa is the most historic wine region in America. Countless domestic and international tourists flood its wineries, restaurants and spas each year. But do you think you know Napa? As two travelers who have visited the area for many years, we urge you to take another look. You might be surprised with what you find. Whatever your taste or type, Napa’s now a one-stop shop for great experiences if you’re a wine, spirits and food lover. Napa has a new look, feel and tone. Along with its legendary wine destinations and storied eateries are a growing number of vibrant new restaurants, progressive young winemakers and an increasingly eclectic culture of residents and visitors. Whatever your taste or type, Napa’s now a one-stop shop for great experiences if you’re a wine,…

2016 ACADEMY AWARDS At this year’s 88th annual awards night in Los Angeles, Piper-Heidsieck, the exclusive Champagne of the Academy Awards, poured more than 9,000 glasses of its classic Cuvée Brut and its “Red Carpet Ready” Limited Edition Cuvée Brut magnums, among others. Winners and viewers continued popping corks throughout the evening’s after party. LA NUIT EN ROSÉ MIAMI Rosé lovers gathered to celebrate the wine's versatility, drinkability and booming popularity. The W.E.-partnered event was held at the Mondrian South Beach Hotel, where guests were invited to drink their fill of rosé and enjoy a fourcourse menu prepared by local chefs. PROWEIN 2016 One of the wine industry’s most impactful annual trade fairs, ProWein in Düsseldorf, Germany, attracted more than 55,000 visitors this year. It also featured 300-plus events and…

The inspiration to add a seasonal staple to a ginand-Sherry cocktail? One that tastes clean and refreshing rather than like a juice bar concoction? San Francisco-area bartender Kevin Diedrich says he stumbled upon the combination by accident. “I was drinking a lot of Sherry and tonics, and eating sugar snap peas at the same time,” he says. “It’s a chaotic morph of ideas that just happened.” Diedrich found that the salty, briny nuttiness of the Sherry paired surprisingly well with the natural sweetness of the sugar snap peas. The drink also pays homage to two gin-based classics: the citrusy Tom Collins and the crisp gin and tonic. SNAP PEAS Kevin Diedrich, bar manager, Turnkey, San Francisco 6–8 sugar snap peas 1 ounce La Gitana Manzanilla Sherry 1 ounce Beefeater London…

While the 750-ml wine bottle will always be the standard, there’s something to be said for the festive nature of larger bottles. An option you may not have come across is the curious, delightful and unexpected one-liter bottle. Few wineries employ this size, but it makes for a great conversation piece, especially when sealed with a crown (bottle) cap that many would associate with beer. And while there’s a time and a place for your best stemware, these informally packaged wines are delightful even when enjoyed out of a tumbler. Share that extra wine when friends stop by, providing a mandate for summer fun. Here are four wines that will help you spread the one-liter love. Ampeleia 2014 Unlitro (Costa Toscana); $20. In this Grenachebased blend that includes Carignan and…

A lucky few may get to taste old and rare vintages of Robert Mondavi wines, beginning with the 1966 Unfined Cabernet Sauvignon, sourced from the To Kalon Vineyard. By 1971, it was simply known as Reserve. It wasn’t until the 2011 vintage that the winery designated it as To Kalon Vineyard. But just as interesting—and more widely available—are the wines inspired by the winery or made by the many winemakers who have passed through its doors. There’s also the legacy of Geneviève Janssens, the director of winemaking since 1997 and a quiet mentor to many. Michael Mondavi, Robert’s oldest son, was the first winemaker at Mondavi Winery, a position he held through its first eight vintages. He now runs Michael Mondavi Family Estate and Folio Fine Wine Partners. The list…

CHARDONNAY 94 Roco 2014 Knudsen Vineyards Chardonnay ( Willamette Valley). Smooth and full bodied, this is packed with robust peach, pear, apple, lime and candied pineapple. There’s a streak of vanilla custard from time in new oak, and lengthextending minerality. This just keeps on going in the most delightful fashion. Editors’ Choice. — P.G. abv: 13.5% Price: $60 93 Roco 2014 Marsh Estate Vineyards Chardonnay ( Willamette Valley). Among an excellent trio of Chardonnays from Roco, this is the spicy one, with soft and supple tree fruits, a touch of citrus and more. The complexities pile on, suggestions of melon and cotton candy, and that lovely sweet spice. — P.G. abv: 13.5% Price: $60 92 Rex Hill 2013 Seven Soils Chardonnay ( Willamette Valley ). This is a fine vintage…

WHITE WINES VINHO VERDE 91 Anselmo Mendes 2015 Muros Antigos Alvarinho ( Vinho Verde ). The family vineyards of consultant Anselmo Mendes are in the north of the Vinho Verde region the home of Alvarinho, so it’s no surprise that this wine is a great interpetation of the grape. It is almost luscious in its intensity and richness. Orange, ripe apple and intense citrus flavors are encased in a generous, full-bodied wine. Drink now, although this wine will be even better from 2017. Aidil Wines/Old World Import. — R.V. abv: 12.5% Price: $25 90 Quinta de Soalheiro 2015 Alvarinho ( Vinho Verde ). There is a slight pepper character in this wine with its ripe fruits and fresh acidity. The result is a balanced wine that is not just about…

RIESLING TROCKEN 94 Wittmann 2014 Westhofener Riesling Trocken ( Rheinhessen). Ruddy, ripe yellow peach and deep mineral tones go hand and hand in this lush, full-bodied dry Riesling. The palate is slick, almost oily, in texture, bolstered by fleshy yellow fruit and honey flavors. It’s deftly balanced though, struck by reverberating notes of steel and slate that linger through a long finish. Loosen Bros. USA. Editors’ Choice. — A.I. abv: 13% Price: $40 93 Wittmann 2014 Riesling Trocken ( Rheinhessen). Intense aromas of tropical mango and melon scent this elegant, slightly cream-textured dry Riesling. Sprays of white grapefruit and lime juice brighten the midpalate, extending through a long finish marked by zesty acidity and chalky, dusty mineral tones. Drink now through 2019. Loosen Bros. USA. Editors’ Choice. — A.I. abv:…

Originally brewed for enjoyment within the year, selections today offer such depth and complexity that they will cellar well. Now that we’ve made it through the cold winter and rainy spring, it’s time to turn our attention to warm-weather entertainment and festivities. That’s right, it’s finally summer! With rising temperatures and outside gatherings of family and friends, it’s important to find refreshing and versatile beverages that will please a wide audience and pair well with a variety of foods. While lagers, session IPAs and pale ales might do the trick, some of the best options are traditional saisons, or farmhouse ales. A saison, the French word for season, was traditionally brewed in the autumn or winter for consumption by farm workers in late summer during the harvest. While the flavor…

Leaders of the Virginia Revolution Virginia has a long history of wine, cider, beer and spirit experimentation, starting with our forefathers. Now, a new set of revolutionaries is leading the state to national recognition. West of West on the Sonoma Coast Take a tour of the West Sonoma Coast’s best wineries, vineyards, lodging and restaurants, and get to know the area that’s now seeking an official AVA designation. Focus on Pinot Grigio Though the category is often a minefield of hit-or-miss quality, Italian Editor Kerin O’Keefe gives her tips on the best bottlings from regions like Alto Adige, Collio and Friuli. Pairings: Lawn Party Head outdoors for a festive take on summertime food and drink. A touch of elegance and a dash of whimsy will make your entertaining memorable.…

John Legend is best known for the huge romantic hit, “All of Me,” inspired by his wife, model Chrissy Teigen; and the song “Glory,” written and performed with rapper Common for the movie Selma. He’s also a tireless musical collaborator. In 2013, Legend took that spirit of teamwork to the world of wine, reaching out to Jean-Charles Boisset, owner of Raymond Vineyards in Napa Valley, to make a Cabernet Sauvignon. Their efforts were recognized earlier this year with the first-ever Wine and Culture Wine Star Award from Wine Enthusiast. The two followed that first wine, called Legend Vineyard Exclusive, or LVE, with a 2014 Chardonnay. We talked with Legend recently in the Napa Valley about his love of wine and food, cooking with Teigen at home and with him and…

June marks the third-annual EAT (RED) DRINK (RED) SAVE LIVES, a month-long campaign from famed U2 frontman Bono and Bobby Shriver’s (RED) initiative. The event brings together chefs, restaurants and bars to raise money and awareness for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS. Nancy Silverton is a legendary chef, baker and cookbook author, but she’s also an active supporter of numerous charities and one of the chefs at The (RED) Supper kickoff event in New York City. This recipe takes advantage of the first tiny tomatoes of summer. PAIR IT “I love drinking Rosso di Montalcino with tomato sauces,” says Sarah Clarke, beverage director of Mozza Restaurant Group. “Podere Le Ripi Rosso di Montalcino 2009 is a little fuller style, with a hint of French barrique, which is a nice…

The only American Viticultural Area (AVA) to straddle both Napa and Sonoma counties, Carneros, established in 1983, is fog-cooled and refreshingly undeveloped, compared to many nearby regions. While other areas have risen in reputation and favor with tourists for having more to do, many of Carneros’s most famous names haven’t offered much in the way of tastings or tours. That’s changing. There’s no doubt Carneros can produce enviable Pinot Noir, and, in smaller amounts, Merlot and Syrah. Its true calling card might be Chardonnay, a grape that has been quietly making it famous all along. And two of its most respected vineyard-designated growers are, after decades in the business, building wineries of their own. Larry Hyde and his sons, Peter and Chris, broke ground in February on a site across…

The harvest was both large and of excellent quality, arguing against the old adage of high yields equating to low quality. Some of the coolest Northern California vineyards yielded several of the top-rated wines in this issue. Look for three stunning sparkling wines from the iconic Schramsberg winery, and nine outstanding Pinot Noirs grown in coastal Mendocino County, practically within earshot of the Pacific surf. Schramsberg is located in Napa Valley, but uses grapes and base wines from several North Coast counties for its consistently luxurious and elegant sparkling wines. The Davies family celebrated its 50th anniversary as Schramsberg’s owners last year with the release of long-held library wines, including selections from the 1999, 2000 and 2004 vintages. Now, three great Schramsbergs from 2007 are continuing the celebration. The 2007…

SHIRAZ 94 Schild Estate 2008 Moorooroo Limited Release Shiraz ( Barossa). Creamy textured and full bodied, this already mature Shiraz combines savory aspects of leather, soy sauce, meat and mushroom with hints of vanilla and red raspberries. It’s long and supple on the finish. Drink now–2020. The Australia-New Zealand Wine Connection. — J.C. abv: 14.9% Price: $90 93 Casella 2007 1919 Shiraz ( Wrattonbully ). It will be interesting to see if the release of this luxury-level Shiraz (the second vintage) has any impact on the perception of Casella’s other brands: Yellow Tail and Peter Lehmann. Even at nine years of age, this is impressively dark and intense, with minty notes, cedar and vanilla and meaty, umamilike flavors that linger on the long, silky finish. Drink now. Deutsch Family Wine…

WHITE WINES CÔTES DE GASCOGNE 90 Domaine du Tariquet 2015 Premières Grives ( Côtes de Gascogne). Just off dry, this is a delicious, honeyed wine. Made to drink as an apéritif or with a paté, it is soft and stylish. Aromatic apricot and baked apple flavors give this wine fruitiness while the background is full of bright acidity. Drink now. Domaine Select Wine & Spirits. Editors’ Choice. — R.V. abv: 12% Price: $19 88 Domaine Guillaman 2015 Les Pierres Blanches Sauvignon Blanc-Chardonnay ( Côtes de Gascogne). It is the Chardonnay in the blend that makes this wine. It gives it a smooth, creamy character that is only lightly cut by the more herbal Sauvignon Blanc flavors. The wine is light and refreshingly fruity. It is ready to drink this summer.…

ASSYRTICO 92 Tselepos 2014 Assyrtico ( Santorini). Lemon and slate aromas give this wine an immediate poise, but there’s much more complexity on the palate. Mineral-driven but full of fresh and fullbodied citrus, pineapple and grapefruit, the wine finishes with a chalky and brisk tidiness. A truly delicious expression of a very distinctive grape. Cava Spiliadis. — S.K. abv: 13.5% Price: $25 90 Domaine Costa Lazaridi 2014 Château Julia Assyrtico ( Drama ). Brisk and bright aromas of grapefruit and lemon start this assertive and distinctive Assyrtiko. On the palate, mineral and crisp flavors are balanced by a savory spin on the backpalate. Balanced and multilayered, the wine will pair with spicy and delicate foods alike. Nestor Imports. — S.K. abv: 13% Price: $18 88 Lyrarakis 2014 Assyrtico ( Crete…

WHO Singer-Songwriter John Legend WHERE Napa Valley WHAT Legend chatted with Wine Enthusiast TV about his love affair with wine, entertaining with his wife, model and author Chrissy Teigen, and his collaboration with Jean-Charles Boisset, owner of Boisset Collection, on their LVE wine. Watch the exclusive video at winemag.com/legendexclusive and turn to page 13 for a Q&A with the star. “I wanted the wines to be something I would be proud to serve at my home.” —John Legend, on the LVE collection “I can’t think of a better way to enjoy a night than to have some great music, some great food and some great wine.” —John Legend, on the perfect evening Follow us @WineEnthusiast…

“You don’t have to choose between ripeness and acidity like you do with Viognier.”–Jason Haas In the long Golden State tradition of prognosticating which white grape may pique the curiosity of Chardonnay drinkers, there’s a new competitor in town: Grenache Blanc. Still puny in terms of planted acres (less than 350 statewide, compared to about 100,000 for Chardonnay), Grenache Blanc originally mutated from Grenache Noir in Spain and then spread to France’s Rhône Valley. There, it’s predominantly blended into white wines from Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Côtes du Rhône. The Haas family at Tablas Creek in Paso Robles imported cuttings in 1992. In 2002, they convinced federal regulators to recognize Grenache Blanc. “There is a lot of openness from people for white wines with both body and freshness,” says Jason Haas, regarding…

The summer solstice is both the longest day of the year in terms of sunlight as well as the official start of summer, regardless of how many times Memorial Day tries to lay claim to the title. The date itself (June 20 this year) and the days that lie immediately before and after are prime time to maximize sunlight and spend time outside with friends. A few years ago, we chose the summer solstice to hike El Cielo, an imposing peak near our home in Nerja, Spain. The night before, we enjoyed drinks with one of those friends who implored “just one more” each time we tried to head home. Alas, a short night of sleep preceded the longest day of the year. Waking up was nowhere near the most…

Portland is one of the culinary, wine and beer capitals of the West Coast. With the Willamette Valley an hour south and Mount Hood to the east, the Rose City is close to wine and the wild outdoors. But before you head to the vineyards or the mountains, spend time exploring all Portland has to offer. Start your journey in the Pearl District and Nob Hill. The Pearl District is full of eclectic restaurants and bustling shops, while Nob Hill is laid-back and residential, right next to the city’s extensive park system. For a morning pastry, head to Ken’s Artisan Bakery. A James Beard Award finalist for his book, Flour Water Salt Yeast, Ken Forkish serves up delicate croissants and perfectly caramelized cannelé. Hunker down in one of the world’s…

The Buying Guide includes ratings and reviews of new-release and selected older beverage alcohol products evaluated by Wine Enthusiast Magazine’s editors and other qualified tasters. Regular contributors to our Buying Guide include Tasting Director/Senior Editor Lauren Buzzeo, Executive Editor Susan Kostrzewa, Managing Editor Joe Czerwinski, Assistant Tasting Director Alexander Peartree, Contributing Editors Michael Schachner, Anna Lee C. Iijima, Mike DeSimone, Jeff Jenssen and Spirits Editor Kara Newman in New York; European Editor Roger Voss in France; Italian Editor Kerin O’Keefe in Switzerland; Contributing Editor Anne Krebiehl in England; Contributing Editors Virginie Boone, Jim Gordon and Matt Kettmann in California; and Contributing Editors Paul Gregutt and Sean Sullivan in Washington. If a wine was evaluated by a single reviewer, that taster’s initials appear following the note. When no initials appear following…

CABERNET SAUVIGNON 92 Concha y Toro 2012 Don Melchor Puente Alto Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ( Puente Alto ). This is a riper, heavier than usual Don Melchor, as evidenced by aromas of raisin along with black plum, coffee and creamy oak. A full, round, plush palate offers more than adequate depth, while black cherry, plum and vanilla flavors come with hints of licorice and chocolate. Hailing from a hot vintage, this avoids almost all herbal characteristics but feels a bit soft and simple. Drink through 2023. Excelsior Wines. — M.S. abv: 14.5% Price: $120 91 Cono Sur 2012 20 Barrels Cabernet Sauvignon ( Maipo Valley). Dry, briary aromas of field brush, black olive, herbs, berry fruits and saucy tomato are textbook Maipo. This is fresh, a touch choppy, and not…

RED WINES CHIANTI CLASSICO GRAN SELEZIONE 93 Castello di Ama 2011 San Lorenzo Gran Selezione ( Chianti Classico ). Elegant and structured, this offers aromas that suggest sunbaked earth, ripe woodland berry, chopped mint and a whiff of new leather. The taut, polished palate off ers juicy black cherry, ripe raspberry, orange peel, anise and grilled herb alongside austere, fine-grained tannins that give it a firm finish. Drink 2018–2023. The Sorting Table. — K.O. abv: 13% Price: $50 93 Isole e Olena 2010 Gran Selezione ( Chianti Classico ). Underbrush, French oak, Mediterranean herb, menthol and blackberry aromas unfold on this elegantly structured red. The fullbodied palate offers ripe black cherry, cinnamon, star anise and chopped mint alongside fine-grained tannins. This is still young and needs to develop to its…

These rums spend minimal time in oak barrels, allowing the sugarcane flavors to take center stage. For daiquiris, mojitos and more, white rum is a refreshing summer staple. Sometimes called silver or blanco, these rums spend minimal time in oak barrels, allowing the sugarcane flavors to take center stage—often perceived as vanilla or brown sugar—rather than the deeper caramel and toffee tones found in longer-aged rums. Arguably, no one knows rum better than Martin Cate, proprietor of San Francisco tiki den Smuggler’s Cove—which stocks more than 500 rums—and author of a new book by the same name, about exotic (and mostly rum-soaked) cocktails. He explains the understandable confusion behind white rum. “Many rum consumers think that white rum is unaged—the rum equivalent of vodka,” Cate notes. “This is not the…