To Check or Ship…Wine Check!

Any trip to California wine country will often result in the same question popping up; should I check my wine as an extra bag or ship it home?  This was the quandary I found myself in on a recent trip to the Golden State.  On a previous trip, I had checked one case of wine as an extra bag, had no issues and was happy to find my case on the baggage carousel at my home airport.  I was even more delighted when I opened the case to find that all the wine had made it through unscathed. On that particular trip, I had a direct flight and was only checking one case of wine.  So, the chances of a catastrophe occurring were minimal and because of the high cost of shipping, it made sense to check rather than ship.  However, on our most recent trip I had a layover and was planning on bringing home 2 cases of wine.  Double the flights, double the wine, double the chances that something would go wrong.

As my first case of wine was filled, I began to weigh the options.  Should I ship the wine which would result in expensive shipping, having to arrange for delivery so someone could sign for the box and be forced to wait a week to get the wine? Or should I ship as an extra bag, pay a lower amount to send it home and have the wine as soon as I get home?  It was a difficult question; I really wasn’t sure what made the best sense.  I knew that with a layover, the chances of cardboard wine cases being damaged or “lost” were high.  But the benefits of bringing the wine home with me and saving on shipping seemed to outweigh the negatives.

My real concern was the integrity of the cardboard wine box.  I already knew that the Styrofoam inserts would protect the wine, but I didn’t think the cardboard box would make it through multiple flights and handling by airline personnel.  I had 6 days remaining on the trip, which provided more than enough time to try and locate a better shipping container before the return trip.  After a quick search on the internet, I realized there were plenty of options for those serious about traveling with wine.  But you also had to make a serious financial commitment, which I was unwilling to do.

I was beginning to give up hope that I would find an affordable shipping container and then I happened across http://thewinecheck.com/.  As the site states; they offer a safe, convenient and economical way to ship wine. The price for the bag was $54.00 or $59.00 for a bag and cardboard shipper insert.  I was sold on the idea until I got to the shipping page. If I had been in Napa or Sonoma (Proper), I could have arranged for a free same day delivery. However, since I was in Santa Barbara I would have to ship them and expedite it to get the bags in time.   Unfortunately, the cost to buy 2 bags and ship them to Santa Barbara in less than 5 days was going to cost me $279.18.  At that price I would end up saving money shipping the wine.  Still convinced that the wine check was a great affordable idea, but not willing to spend that much to ship them, I passed on the bags.  Instead, I would take my chances with the regular cardboard boxes and I resolved to order the bags when I got back home so I would be prepared for my next trip.

The following day, we decided to take in the sights of downtown Santa Barbara and visit some of the local wine tasting rooms. We stopped at Corks n’ Crowns in downtown Santa Barbara and while enjoying a tasting when I noticed a bright red bag that looked very familiar.  I realized that it was one of the wine check bags I had been looking at the day before. I purchased two wine checks and was now prepared to fill the remainder of my wine cases.

The following morning, we were back on our way back to the Santa Ynez Valley with our wine checks in tow.  We had planned on a full day of wine tasting in the Valley, an overnight at a local hotel and another full day of tasting the next day before returning to Santa Barbara.  The wine check provided a convenient place to store the wine bottles so they weren’t floating all over the car and it made it easy to transport the cases to and from the hotel.  We managed to fill both cases in no time and even had a few bottles extra to go in our suitcases.

As the end of the trip neared, I started to have some concerns.  Would the whole thing really be less than 50 lbs? Would the bags stand up to the abuse of the airlines? Would my wine be safe from theft? Would the wine bottles make it without breaking?

As we arrived at the airport, I grabbed the wine check bags and we headed off to the check-in counter.   As I placed the first bag on the scale, the weight registered as 43.5 lbs, well under the 50lbs limit.  The bag was tagged and thrown onto the belt behind the counter.  The next bag came in at 44.5 lbs, also well beneath the limit.  Again the bag was thrown onto the belt behind the counter.  I had answered my first question, but had also witnessed the beginning of the abuse the bags would face.

Following a completely “random” check with the TSA, we finally arrived at our gate.  We set up by the window so I could track the progress of the bags as they were loaded onto the aircraft.  This would be the last time I saw the bags until we reached New Jersey.  We boarded the aircraft and were soon on our way to Phoenix and following a brief layover, were on our way back to New Jersey.

Arriving at Newark Airport, I immediately set out for the baggage claim and after a brief wait the first wine check slid onto the belt followed immediately by the second.  A cursory inspection revealed no stains or damage to the outside of the bags, so it was off to the car and home for a better inspection. When we arrived at home I opened the wine checks and was greeted by TSA tape on the boxes and an insert that explained TSA inspection criteria.  When I opened the box, I found all wine bottles accounted for and unbroken.  The same was true for the second wine check bag and the four bottles we had placed in our luggage.

I was very happy with how the wine check performed on the trip.  It provided a convenient place to put all the wine we had purchased while traveling from the hotels to wineries.  It held up to abuse by the airlines and came away with no damage to the wine.  Most of all, it provided an affordable option to shipping and something that I can use over and over again. The wine check really does live up to all its claims and should definitely be considered by anyone who wants to bring their wine home with them.

If you are interested in purchasing your own wine check bag, you can visit their website at http://thewinecheck.com/

You can also find wine check bags at any one of the several retail locations listed here http://thewinecheck.com/wheretofindthewinecheck.html

The wine check is also a great and affordable holiday gift idea for anyone who enjoys traveling to California and bringing back wine.

Return to Santa Barbara- 2011

Unfortunately, a 3:30am wakeup call has become synonymous with my travel experiences.  When travelling from the most consistently delayed airport in the United States, you tend to adjust your departure time to get out as early as possible to avoid the ever present delays.  However, when returning from the West Coast you have no ability to avoid Newark Liberty International Airport’s delays, as you are already 3 hours behind the East Coast. Being that I had control over my “delay destiny” on the departure end of the trip; a 6:30 am flight would ensure no delay in our escape. 

 So, by 4:00 am we were off to Newark Airport for a week of wine tasting in California. The previous year, we had flown direct from Newark, NJ to Los Angeles and then drove to Santa Barbara.  This time, we decided to avoid LAX and try to fly into the Santa Barbara airport. While normally a Continental Airlines aka “The new United Airlines,” traveler, on this trip we would be flying US Airways to Santa Barbara via Phoenix.  There are currently no direct flights from Newark Airport to Santa Barbara, so a stop over in Phoenix was the next best option.  Arriving at the airport early made check in and security easy and by 6:45 we were airborne and on our way to Phoenix.  Following a short layover and a quick 1 hour flight, we were touching down in Santa Barbara. We spent the rest of the afternoon visiting with family, unpacking and then finished a busy travel day watching the sun set from the Beachside Bar Café on the Goleta Beach while enjoying margaritas.

 The next morning, we left Santa Barbara around 9:15 to head up to the Santa Ynez Valley.  We again travelled the North San Marcus Pass road, which has some of the most amazing views of the Santa Barbara Coast.  You can see more about accessing the Santa Ynez Valley in my previous post “Early to Rise…Santa Barbara Part 1.”  We had 3 separate visits to the valley spread out in our week long trip.  Our plan of attack for the first day was to visit wineries we had never been to before and then mix old and new over the next few visits.

Our first stop of day was Rusack Vineyards, which is located in the Ballard Canyon.  As discussed on the Rusack website, it is a small boutique winery that was founded in 1995 by Geoff Rusack and Alison Wrigley.  In 2001, John and Helen Falcone joined Rusack and are one of the few husband and wife winemaking teams in California.  The winery is also about to launch the first ever wines grown on Santa Catalina Island.  You can read more about their Santa Catalina Island venture here: http://www.rusackvineyards.com/about/catalina.html

The tasting room and Vineyard is located on the Ballard Canyon Road almost halfway between Solvang and Los Olivos.  The Tasting room also offers one of the most beautiful picnic areas you will find anywhere in the valley.  It is a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch while out tasting. A tasting at Rusack is $10, you can split it if you choose and you are allowed to keep your glass.

Below is a partial list of wines we tasted while visiting Rusack:

Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County, 2009

“The truly distinctive flavors from the cool Northern and Western
extremes of Santa Barbara County come together in this bottle.
Here, our love of blending has resulted in a marriage of exceptional
fruit aromas with carefully balanced acidity, capturing the
best qualities of the area. Honeydew melon, Asian pear, orange
blossom, as well as citrus notes are highlighted in this appealingly
crisp white wine.”

Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, 2009

“From one of Santa Barbara County’s great growing regions. The Rusack Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir captures some of this region’s classic characters of strawberry and cherry, with a hint of mesquite, which are followed by flavors of rhubarb and cranberry. The soft, silky tannins make for an approachable young wine that is also age worthy.”

We purchased this Pinot Noir, it was excellent.

Syrah, Ballard Canyon Estate, 2009

“The grapes for our Ballard Canyon Estate Syrah release are from the estate vineyards around the winery, located in the beautiful Ballard Canyon. Located in the larger Santa Ynez Valley appellation, Ballard Canyon has its own nuances and micro-climates that make it a near-perfect place for grape varietals such as Syrah. This very small bottling contains classic Ballard Canyon Syrah aromas of cassis and blackberry, with hints of licorice. Concentrated flavors of dried cherries, blackberries and cocoa mix with velvety tannins that linger on the palate.”

Of all the new wineries that we visited on our trip, this was one of our favorites.  The scenery is amazing and it will definitely become a regular stop on our future visits. If you’d like to visit the Rusack Winery, it is located at 1819 Ballard Canyon Rd, Solvang, CA 93463; you can also visit their website at http://www.rusackvineyards.com/

Our next stop was Mosby Winery, which is located off the Santa Rosa Road in Buellton.  Specializing in Italian Varietals, Mosby provides a unique break from the selections you will find at other wineries in the Valley.  Aside from Italian wines, Mosby also specializes in Plum Brandy and Grappa. You will also find some of the most amazing wine labels on the Mosby bottles.

Wine maker Bill Mosby and his wife Jill purchased their de la Vega property in the early 1970’s.   Shortly thereafter, they started a commercial wine making business bottling under the Vega label, which was named after their land.  In 1986, the Vega label was changed to Mosby to better reflect the family name and philosophy of wine making.

A tasting at Mosby is $10; you can split it if you like and are allowed to keep your glass.

Below is a partial list of the wines we tasted while visiting Mosby:

Pinot Grigio

“Light and refreshing, the Mosby Pinot Grigio delights with aromas of ripe pear, apple, and vanilla bean. The crisp, citrusy taste is followed by a dry, clean finish with an element of wet stone. Historically, Pinot Grigio originates from the Fruili-Venezia Guilia of Italy. Said to be a mutation of the Pinot Noir grape, the Pinot Grigio seems unsure whether it is a red or white wine grape. Hence, grigio, meaning gray.”

Sagrantino

“The Mosby Sagrantino is the first domestically-produced Sagrantino available for sale. Sagrantino is an Italian grape varietal that grows around the hilltop town of Montefalco in Umbria. Bill imported the cuttings and tended them in his estate vineyard for four years before his first Californian Sagrantino harvest in 2006. The wine is true to its Italian heritage; dark garnet-red in the glass, this wine offers up exotic fragrances including rose petal and horehound. The flavor combines brooding elements of tobacco, “sotto di bosco” (fruit of the forest floor) abd sassafras bark intertwined with bold dark fruit and a chewy, mouth-filling texture. The firm tannins complement these rich flavors and create a pleasantly-defined finish. This release is still a youngster so we recommend opening the wine to breathe for about a half hour, then serving it with full-flavored foods. We enjoy our Sagrantino with cheeses such as Manchego, Cabrales or Parmesan; red meats including bison, lamb, game or pepper steak; poultry such as squab or duck and any dish flavored with truffles, mint or rosemary. This wine will cellar well for 5 to 7 years.”

Sofia 

“A dessert wine made from raspberries. Jammy, raspberry fruit with a bright finish. Dessert in a glass!”

We purchased this dessert wine; it was one of our favorite dessert wines of the trip.

If you’d like to visit the Mosby Winery, it is located at 9496 Santa Rosa Rd, Buellton, CA 93427; you can also visit their website at http://mosbywines.com/index.html

Following Mosby, we were off to Alma Rosa Winery which is also located on the Santa Rosa Rd.  Founders Richard and Thekla Sanford, have founded multiple successful winegrowing enterprises over the last 40 years, most recently Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards.  Alma Rosa operates two vineyards in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA and both have been organically certified.  They have a beautifully rustic tasting room and many may recognize the Tasting room manager, Chris Burroughs from the movie Sideways.  A tasting at Alma Rosa is $10, and you can split it if you like.

Below is a partial list of the wines we tasted while visiting Alma Rosa:

2008 Pinot Noir- Sta. Rita Hills

“Text book old-world varietal character, showing the brilliant, fresh, flashy side of Pinot Noir. Bright raspberry and bing cherry notes are enhanced by a sassy, spicy element and refreshing acidity.”

2007 Pinot Noir- Sta. Rita Hills

“Positively brimming with fruity aromatics and flavors (made with grapes from our certified organic estate vineyards) dominated by a mix of fresh crushed berries and dark cherries, shot through with a floral-spice element and a beet-root-meets-cola essence. The wine showcases the dark rich side of Pinot Noir and already has a supple smooth texture with clean acidity.”

2009 Chardonnay- El Jabali Vineyard- Sta. Rita Hills

“As vibrant and luminous as watching the sun rise over the Sea of Cortez, sitting on a pristine beach among seashells and sand-dollars, tropical clouds above radiating their skyblue pinkness, the air still cool from the night and the water surface mirror-smooth. Apple-y, citrus-y, minerally pure classic Chardonnay, a little bit bread-y, like a fresh bolillo from the panaderia… this is another offering out of the heritage vines here at Rancho El Jabalí.”

If you’d like to visit the Alma Rosa Winery, it is located at 7250 Santa Rosa Road, Buellton CA 93427; you can also visit their website at http://www.almarosawinery.com/index.html

Our final stop of the day was Kalyra Winery located in Santa Ynez.  The land that Kalyra is currently located on has a long history in the Santa Ynez valley.  Originally planted in 1968, as part of the Vina de Santa Ynez, it is considered one of the inaugural vineyards in the region.  The current owner Mike Brown grew up in Australia and relocated the valley in the late 1980’s.  Kalyra offers two tasting rooms, the Kalyra Winery in Santa Ynzez and Kalyra by the Sea in downtown Santa Barbara. 

As is true with many of the wineries in the Santa Ynez, fans of Sidways will recognize the tasting room. This is the winery that Sandra Oh aka “Stephanie” worked at. The view from the Kaylra Winery tasting room in Santa Ynez is amazing and they offer a large covered porch to enjoy lunch or a glass on wine. A tasting at Alma Rosa is $10, and you can split it if you like.

Below is a partial list of the wines we tasted while visiting Kalyra:

2009 Gewurztraminer

“This California Gewurztraminer from Santa Ynez Valley’s Kalyra is a great choice for anyone looking for a dry white wine. Kalyra is one of the best Santa Ynez wineries with a popularity and reputation that goes back to the younger years of the grand Santa Ynez Valley wine region. Winemaker Mike Brown has over twenty years of experience in winemaking, spanning two continents. He is well versed in the wines of Australia and California and this white wine made from the Gewurztraminer grape is not outside his comfort zone. This wine is possibly the most fragrant white wine you may ever find. With its distinctively floral nose and spicy finish, this refreshing off-dry favorite from just across the street is like a cool breeze on a hot summer’s day. Buy a bottle and you might just be naming it the ‘best white wine’ you have ever tasted.”

We purchased two bottles of the Gewurztraminer; it had a very nice taste and was very reasonably priced.

2010 Sauvignon Blanc

“The fruit for this California Sauvignon Blanc was sourced from Vina De Santa Inez – in Santa Ynez Valley, one of the great appellations of California, let alone all of the world. This California white wine is created in the New World style of stainless steel fermentation with no oak barrel aging, made in a style that truly reflects the bright nature of the varietal. This light wine is crisp and has a classic floral flavor with gooseberry and grapefruit overtones. Another good white wine from Kalyra Winery, the 2009 Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely with many summer dishes like seafood and salads.”

2008 MC² Blend

“Showing off rich, dark berry flavors and a smoky, chocolaty finish, the wine is superbly structured. This California red wine is a delicious food and wine pairing, especially with rugged Italian dishes and rich meats. MC² is just one more reason why Kalyra is one of the good red wine brands from California – with some of the best red wines.”

If you’d like to visit the Kalyra Winery, it is located at 343 N.Refugio Rd., Santa Ynez CA 93460; you can also visit their website at http://www.kalyrawinery.com/index.php

Following Kalyra it was back to Santa Barbara after a quick stop at Cold Springs Tavern for tri-tip sandwiches.  Check back next month as we continue our week long visit to Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Valley.

 Until next time Salude!!

 

2011 Napa Valley Grape Harvest

With the 2011 Napa Valley harvest season winding down, one has to really wonder how this vintage will turn out. Napa Valley experienced a cold and wet spring with late flowering and flowers dropping off of the grape clusters which is known as grape shatter. The cool wet conditions had many vineyards on the lookout for botrytis rot and mildew.  Cooler summer temperatures have many vineyards delaying harvest by weeks. And no doubt grape crop yields will be down also. In fact weather throughout North America for 2011 was rather extreme with unseasonably cool temperatures in Oregon, heavy early frost in central California, heat waves and drought in Texas, unusual amounts of rain, Hurricane Irene and the recent Noreaster that hit much of New Jersey, New York and New England on the east coast. That makes me wonder how the 2011 vintages hroughout the entire US will turnout. On a positive note many grape growers employ proactive and innovative techniques to combat extreme weather conditions. While yields may be lower they could also be higher in quality and late season warm temperatures have helped many vineyards extending hang time. Only time will tell how we will judge the 2011 wines, and as I do with every new vintage I will patiently wait to taste them and search out those special gems that always tend to come out of a tough year.

Hudson Valley Wine and Food Fest 2011

The 2011, Tenth annual Hudson Valley Wine and Food Fest will be held September 10^th and 11^th. The event will be presented this year by Fine Cooking Magazine and WineRacks.com. The event will feature award winning New York wine as well as wines from around the world. Along with gourmet food, fine arts and crafts. A new addition to the event will be a series of wine dinners leading up to the festival and a wine competition in conjunction with the Hudson Valley Wine and Grape Association.

Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest will take place Saturday, September 10^th from 11am to 6pm and Sunday September 11th from 11am
to 5pm at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, NY.

For more information contact:

Shannon Rahe: 888-687-2517 or
Shannon@hudsonvalleywinefest.com

Napa Valley Visit 2011

Next Saturday begins another Napa Valley visit, a trip and experience I never grow tired of! The ever changing valley and the wines it brings to life always provide a new and refreshing experience. The visit will be our tenth one and along the way we have grown in our view and knowledge of California wines, made friends and built relationships with some great wineries. I know that with every visit there is so much we have yet to see and each trip becomes unique. As always our goal is to search out the “just under the radar wineries” that don’t get all the press, and there is no shortage of these great places in the valley. We will also return to Sonoma this year after a two year layoff. This excites me as I love the difference between the hustle and bustle of Napa and the country style of Sonoma, not to mention fantastic wine the area is known for. Yes, I am looking forward to another great trip, sure to come back with some stories to write about and new wines I have discovered to add to my cellar collection. It is always so much fun to open one of those bottles later on and relive the memories of a great vacation where you discovered a winery for the first time. Cheers!

Cinco de Mama

Villa Millagro Vineyards in Finesville New Jersey to host Cinco de Mama

May 7 & 8  Noon-6:00pm

Missed Cinco de Mayo?  No Problema!!  Celebrate “La Dia de Las Madres” with a Mexican flair!  Treat “su Mama” to tasty Mexican tidbits and sangria at our little “house of miracles”, Villa Milagro.  $10 includes food, wine tasting, monogrammed gift glass and a corsage for Mom.

Details at:  www.villamilagrovineyards.com/CincodeMadres/html

Or call 908-995-2072

WTSO Wine Bargains

Well, here I am today waiting anxiously for the next wine for sale to appear on WTSO AKA Wines Till Sold Out.  For those of you that don’t know the official website is www.tillsoldout.com and today is “The Big Marathon”.   Yes, it is, the big marathon featuring a new wine every fifteen minutes or until when you ask?  Till sold out…. Of course!  Part of me wants to tell the world about this great, simple, no frills, easy to use site and the other part wants to spread a nasty rumor about them in order to free up more of the wines for myself.   I already have trouble purchasing some of the fantastic values they offer.  Today for example, a Two Hands Napa Valley Cabernet appeared with a very low price of 39.99 with free shipping on any two or more bottles.  I apparently have a very slow computer or something as no sooner did I add 2 bottles to my shopping cart, the deal disappeared.  Do not be disillusioned though, I have purchased before with great success and two days later there was my wine, free shipping and all.

Excuse me for a minute while I check the latest great deal.   Oh, a Brookdale Cabernet 2007 Napa Valley.  Best web price available yesterday was $50.00 (shipping included in price) and WTSO is selling for $24.79 with free shipping on 3 or more bottles.  So, that is how it works, they give you a wine including any ratings issued by Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast, or any other reviewer they have information on. A history of the winery, number of cases produced, tasting notes, and all the tidbits of information you might find useful when purchasing a wine.  They provide you # of bottles required to purchase in order to qualify for free shipping, their purchase price along with yesterdays best web price including shipping.  They gather this information via Google and other web sources (Btw, don’t log on looking for the Brookdale deal, it is gone already) to provide you a comparison to ensure the deal you are getting is real.  Pretty neat, huh?

WTSO’s website accurately states, fine wine, great prices, one wine at a time.  Wines everyday at 30% to 70% off is the slogan.  While I have touched on how it works, and mentioned the marathon today where a new wine is posted every fifteen minutes unless it sells out, in which case a new one is posted immediately, I have yet to explain a normal WTSO wine day.  Beginning at 12:01 am a new wine is posted, always one at a time and that wine stays until sold out and then a new bargain is posted.  Sometimes it is 7 minutes and it is sold out and sometimes 7 hours.  Another great feature is the WTSO app for the IPhone and the Droid.  I have it installed on my phone and get updates whenever a new wine is posted…I know, very cool; now I never miss a wine as I am notified as I would be if I got a new email or text message.

In closing while I have mixed emotions about sharing these great bargains, I hope you take advantage as I have.  No one can really say how long these types of deals will last, but this site and others of its type are a great way for both the winery owners and the consumers to take advantage of the sagging economy.  Let’s face it we can all use the discount and the winery can choose to unload some inventory surplus to make room for new vintages all without lowering the original prices.  Sort of a back door approach that is a win-win for all of us!

If Wine had a cousin…would it be Rum?

With the second month of 2011 upon us, I finally find myself with 5 free minutes to post on the site.  January has been a weather nightmare and at this point there looks to be no end in sight for February.  However, that’s not what Punxsutawney Phil thinks. I really believe the “powers” that be in little Gobblers Knob, PA, didn’t have it in them to tell us we actually have another full 6 weeks of winter.  I think they’re just as sick of snow as we are! So here we are coming off a major 2 day snow/sleet/ice storm, looking down the barrel of another snow/sleet/ice storm Saturday, followed by another snow “event” next Tuesday. As I stated previously…no end in sight.  The good news is…well at this point there is none, but I digress.

 

Like years past, this one looks to be another busy one travel wise.  I have at least 1 trip scheduled each month for the next 3…a break over the summer and then in October it’s back to Santa Barbara.  I think I am most looking forward to that trip, I really enjoy the area and the wineries are great.  I am excited about hitting some old favorites and finding some new ones also.  By that time my “California” stock of wines from the last trip will be perilously close to empty, so it will be a great time to stock up again.  I was fortunate enough this past Christmas to receive the Blackjack Vineyard 2006 Pinot Noir.  I really enjoyed the 2005 vintage and I am excited about the 2006.  I will definitely be picking up some extras when we travel out west.

 

We recently escaped, all be it briefly, from the frozen tundra of New Jersey for a 4 day trip to sunny Costa Rica.  Located in Central America and nestled between Nicaragua and Panama, Costa Rica offers some amazing experiences that cannot be missed.  The country prides itself on ecotourism and is a leader in that area and it has also become one of the most visited countries in Central America.

 

While not at the top of the Wine producing countries, or really even on the list at all, Costa Rice does offer another type of libation, Rum. And if you are so inclined to put the wine glass down for a little while, there are some amazing Rum offerings to be found. While not the world’s foremost expert on anything including Rum, I will try to provide some minor insight into the drink of Pirates.  Rum is the drink of the Caribbean, as that is where the majority of it is produced. 

 

It is made utilizing molasses or sugarcane juice which is often a by product of sugarcane. 

In order to create rum, you need distillation and fermentation. During distillation, the molasses is heated in either a pot still or column still. As the molasses heats up, the sugars react and alcohol is released in a gaseous form, it travels up through the top of the pot, through a system of pipes, cools and comes out as a clear liquid which is then fermented. (Remember no expert on the process of making Rum.) 

 

Not unlike wine, this clear liquid is then placed in a barrel or cask to be aged most times at a minimum of at least one year. Aging of the rum generally takes place in bourbon casks but can also be in a steel tank. The age of rum and how it was stored will determine the color of the final product. Once rum has been aged, it is often blended and may be filtered or caramel added to adjust the color as needed.

 

Centenario Internacional is one of the main distilleries in Costa Rica. They offer 5 separate products, the Centenario which is offered in 5, 7, 9, and 12 year aged and the Ron Centenario Fundacion XX Aňos. For more information you can visit their website at http://www.roncentenario.com/

You can also get more information about Rum at: http://www.ministryofrum.com/index.php

Next trip is Denver, Colorado in late February, we’ll see what type of excitement I can get into.

Until next time Salude!!

Geyser Peak 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon

Geyser Peak winery in Alexander Valley was founded in 1880, one of California’s oldest wineries.   A Sonoma winery that is located atop a hillside across from Geyser Peak Mountain producing award winning wines.  They produce a varietal line of wines including the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon we are sampling tonight, along with a Merlot, Pinot Grigio, and Sauvignon Blanc.  Geyser Peak also offers reserve wines, a line of block wines from specific parcels or lots and also limited release wines.   The winery offers a wide variety with something for all palates, even a Riesling for those who enjoy a sweeter wine.  On first taste of the 2006 Cabernet it is all fruit, rich, ripe cherry, lots of dark cherry followed by hints of vanilla with a slightly toasted caramel after taste.  This Cabernet can pair against any dish you throw at it and I would love to eat it with pizza night!   Under $20, it is a must try wine widely available for purchase. To purchase follow the link below:

Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend NJ

Join us throughout the state at Garden State Wineries: 4 JG’s ORCHARDS & VINEYARDS Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm Tasting: $5 (includes souvenir logo wine glass) AMALTHEA CELLARS Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm Admission: Free (VIP tasting: $10) Valentines Day is almost here — and Amalthea Cellars is ready to create an unforgettable experience for you and your sweetheart! We’ll be offering a free tasting of fine wines, gourmet chocolate, and a finely educated staff to answer all of your wine questions. For $10 per person, enjoy our VIP tasting of specially selected, favorite award-winning wines from past, present, and future vintages paired with fruits, imported cheeses, and gourmet chocolates. So visit us this Valentine’s Day weekend for a lasting experience. BELLVIEW WINERY Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 Admission: $5.00 per person Bellview is one stop not to miss on the wine trail! You and your valentine will enjoy sampling from our wide assortment of fine wines. Pair them with delectable chocolate treats homemade by the vintner’s wife. We’ll also bring in luscious goodies from Barbera’s Chocolate on Occasion in Vineland. Warm up with hot Winter Spice wine. Winery tours at 12, 2 and 4pm. Admission includes tours, tasting, chocolates and wine glass. No reservations necessary. For more information, www.BellviewWinery.com or call 856-697-7172 seven days a week, 11am to 5pm. Advanced Wine Seminar February 26, 2011 7:00 pm Admission: $25 per person, limited to 20 This evening is designed for those who know the basics of wine and wish to delve deeper into this intriguing subject. Our resident wine educator, Jan Perlstein will cover a variety of topics, such as the intricacies of restaurant wine service and how to identify faulted wine. Enjoy a vertical tasting and discussion of the wines of France’s northern Rhone Valley. Light snacks and time for questions and answers will follow. For directions, visit www.BellviewWinery.com or call 856-697-7172 daily, 10am to 5pm. BROOK HOLLOW WINERY Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 10:00 am to 5:00 pm ADMISSION: Free. Wine tasting: $3.00 Brook Hollow Winery will have the Chocolate Lovers Emporium on hand with their terrific hand made chocolates and exquisite chocolate covered strawberries. We are offering our custom Valentines Day wine bottle labels and each bottle will include a plush Valentines Day stuffed animal. Place your order at www.brookhollowwinery.com. Wine tasting is offered at $3.00 to taste all 12 of our delicious wines and you keep our custom Brook Hollow Wine glass. CREAM RIDGE WINERY Wine & Chocolate Open House February 6 & 7, 2011 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Free Admission Sample our wines with delicious chocolate! Tours given all day by our proprietor, Tom Amabile. Sample selected gourmet products from our shop. Taste a variety of items hand dipped in milk or dark chocolate. Wine Release: Chocolateberry – NJ Blueberry Wine with Chocolate! Please call us at 609-259-9797 should we have inclement weather. Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Free Admission Bring your Valentine for complimentary wine tasting and tours. Sample delicious products hand dipped in milk and dark chocolate! Try our newest Chocolateberry-Blueberry wine with chocolate! Tours given all day. Don’t miss our barrel tasting! FOUR SISTERS WINERY Murder Mystery Dinner February 12, 2011 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm Cost: $60 per person, plus tax; Tickets are available by calling 908-475-3671 Foul play is afoot at Four Sisters Winery. There has been a mysterious murder at the old vineyard and you might be the guest who cracks the case! Come join us for an evening of interactive entertainment where quests play the characters in a classic murder mystery dinner! The event includes a formal wine tasting and a delicious buffet-style dinner followed by a wine cellar tour and tasting of our dessert wines. A rose will be given to each couple and chocolates served with the dessert wines. Remember not to get too comfortable though….. A murderer walks amongst you! Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 11:00 am to 6:00 pm The winery will be offering its wines with a number of different types of chocolate including a chocolate fondue and homemade chocolate balls. HAWK HAVEN VINEYARD AND WINERY Hawk Haven Happy Hour Every Day 3:00 to 5:00 pm Daily From 3 to 5 pm everyday, it’s Hawk Haven Happy Hour. Enjoy a glass of your favorite Hawk Haven Wine for only $4. Bring a snack along with you or purchase one from our wine shop. Wines are also available by the bottle. Show your New Jersey Teachers pay stub and receive your complimentary Hawk Haven Wine Glass (valued at $5.) Excluding February 11th, 12th & 13th. Valentine’s Wine Pairing Dinner February 12, 2011 Seatings at 6:30 pm & 8:30 pm $45/per person, includes 4-course and wine pairings The Hawk Haven Wine Pairing Dinners are back! Spend a romantic evening with your sweetheart or a night out with friends at Abbie Holmes Estate in Clermont, NJ, just minutes from Hawk Haven’s tasting room. Hawk Haven will pair our wines with the culinary talent of Xenia Caterers. Chef, Sue Narrigan will prepare 3 choices for each of the 4 courses and Hawk Haven will serve a wine pairing selected by the wine maker for each course. Additional wine will be available for purchase. Reservations required, please call Dena at 609-624-1966. Abbie Holmes Estate 1943 Route 9 North, Clermont, NJ 08210. The menu selections are posted on our website www.hawkhavenvineyard.com. Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 11th 12 to 7pm February 12th 12 to 7pm February 13th 12 to 5pm Come enjoy a wine tasting or a glass of wine and chocolates from around the world! Wine Tasting $5 to $7, Wine by the Glass $5 to $12, chocolate prices vary. Extended hours on Friday & Saturday evening. Hawk Haven Happy Hour specials do not apply. HERITAGE VINEYARDS Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 5 & 6, 2011; February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5 Admission: $5 per person Guided winery Tours: Additional $5 per person A spectacular display of wine and chocolate spanning over TWO weekends! Enjoy special pairings of dark chocolate with Heritage Estate Grown Red Wines and milk chocolate with select sweet wines. Expect an array of desert pairings from our bakery and a chocolate fountain along with chocolate fondue. Heritage Vineyards will also be offering guided winery tours where guests can learn about the winemaking process! HOPEWELL VALLEY VINEYARDS Music and Wine Fridays Every Friday Night   5:00 to 8:00 pm Admission:  Free Live Music January 28; Hopewell Valley Vineyards’ Jazz Ensemble February 4; Ashley Pettet jazz vocals & piano February 11; JUNG WOMBATS!-”Duo Fuss” w/Bruuuce”Love Juice”Holsteen (The Bovine Valentine) Archetypal Rock-n-Roll February 18; John & Carm playing classic rock February 25; Hopewell Valley Vineyards’ Jazz Ensemble playing Jazz LAURITA WINERY The Gallery at Laurita Winery Presents: Ken Hubbard’s “Black and White Across America” Through February 18, 2011 Admission: Free Whether it is a dusk lit rock face in Yosemite National Park, barely revealed through a mist of clouds, or an intimate portrait of a colorful New Orleans local, Ken Hubbard’s photographs beckon the viewer to look more closely. Beneath the contemplative solitude of these images lie a disciplined sense of composition and technique. It is a vision that Ken has developed through years of experience as a professional photographer. For more information, please visit www.lauritawinery.com or call 609.758.8000. Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon Admission: Free Bring your sweetheart to Laurita! Discover and indulge in “Everything Chocolate” in the Laurita Marketplace! The first 100 women arriving at Laurita on both February 12 and February 13 will receive a long stem rose. Enjoy the sounds of live musical entertainment both days. Red Wines & Chocolate Packages will be available for purchase. Laurita Country Night – Line Dancing February 12, 2011 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm Admission: Tickets are $5.00 pre-registration and $7.00 on February 12 It’s all about having fun! Three dance lessons are included with Debbie F. Spend the rest of the night dancing to all of your requests and favorites. Great food, great wine, great dancing and a great time! Country style menu specials will be available for purchase starting at 6:00pm. Food, wines and beverages are not included in the ticket purchase. The ticket price for attendance is for participants and observers and includes lessons and dancing. For more information, call 609.758.8000. Capturing Great Vacation Photos by Ken Hubbard February 18, 2011 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Admission: Tickets are $45.00 per person. Professional photographer, Ken Hubbard, whose photographs are currently on display at Laurita, will be offering a photography lecture that will address capturing great vacation photos and color photography. The seminar will include a wine tasting of Laurita wines. Whether you are a professional, novice or beginner, you will walk away with some wonderful tips and techniques. As a bonus to the lecture, a Tamron representative will be displaying the full line of Tamron Lenses for you to view and try. Ken Hubbard shoots with Tamron lenses. For more information, call 609.758.8000. Mary Todd Lincoln Reenactment February 19, 2011 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm Admission: Free The story of Mary Todd Lincoln, wife of President Abraham Lincoln, is shared including information about the parties, soirees and teas Mary would have attended and/or given in the White House. Mary, played by Judi Cox, will also tell stories about herself, Abe, the children and life in the 1860′s. Paul Serge, portrays Elmer Elsworth Hager, a civilian. He plays a Martin Acoustic Guitar, which was a popular instrument of the 1860′s and he will perform music of the era. For more information, call 609.758.8000. NATALI VINEYARDS Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm Admission: $5 Wine Tastings A perfect re-treat for any couple who wants to experience a true “Old World Wine Making” Vineyard/Winery. Take free vineyard/barrel room tours at 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm both days. All wine tastings include samples of imported and domestic cheeses from a local cheese shop as well as some light, sweet samples from Spiked Cakes’ specialty wine infused valentines chocolates/desserts. Visitors will be able to pair some chocolate with Natali’s 100 percent Strawberry Wine. Each lady guest will receive a fresh cut rose from a local Cape May County florist. For more information please call 609-465-0075 or log onto NataliWines.com. OLD YORK CELLARS Wine and Cheesecake February 5, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm Admission: $5 Looking for something different to give your sweetheart this Valentines Day? Then come to Old York Cellars for our wine and cheesecake Saturday. Maddalenas will be on hand to sweeten your day with their famous cheesecake. Nothing says, “I love you” like a Maddalenas cheesecake and Old York Cellars wine. Visit www.oldyorkcellars.com or call 908.284.9463 for more information, or for more information on Maddalenas visit www.maddalenascatering.com Wine And Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 to 13, 2011 1:00 pm Admission: $5 Join Old York Cellars, along with wineries all over the state, for the Garden State Wine Growers annual Wine and Chocolate Weekend. We will be pairing our wines with sweet treats from The Chocolate Box of Lambertville. Call 908.284.9463 or visit www.oldyorkcellars.com for more information. Tank Tasting – Reds February 19, 2011 1:00 and 3:00 pm Admission: $7.50 Preview the 2010 reds before anyone else. This is a unique opportunity to sample the new vintage of the Old York Cellars reds, with our winemaker, as they make their journey from vine to bottle. Following the tank tasting you will get the opportunity to compare 2009 with 2010 and decide if it is time to stock up, or make room in the cellar for 2010. Call 908.284.9463 or visit www.oldyorkcellars.com for more information. Wine and Dine To A Healthier You! February 26, 2011 1:00 pm Admission: $10.00 It’s the New Year and time for the resolutions to eat and live healthier. What better place to start than eating great food and wine, and learning how you can incorporate these foods into your diet. Dr. Deborah Neiman, M.D., medical director of Step Ahead in Bedminster, will be on hand to answer all your questions and share ideas on how to make this a healthy year. She will be bringing with her personal trainer, Noelle Iusardi to help breathe new life into your fitness routine, and Lauren Triglia, registered dietician, to answer any of your nutrition questions. Don’t miss this special, healthy addition to our food and wine series. Reservations are required and seats are limited so call 908.284.9463 or email laurin@oldyorkcellars.com to reserve your spot. For more information visit www.oldyorkcellars.com or to learn more about Step Ahead visit www.stepaheadnj.com PLAGIDO’S WINERY Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 and 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 PM Admission: $5.00 includes souvenir etched wine glass Sample our award winning wines and choose from a wide variety of desserts to sample from milk and white chocolate dipped strawberries and other dipped desserts along with éclairs, cream puffs, cakes and cookies. The owner of Creative Confections, Cheryl Pirrera from Toms River, will be at the winery Saturday and Sunday sampling and selling her sweet creations. She will also be dipping Plagido wine bottles in her chocolate. Cheryl wraps each bottle in cellophane and puts a small string along the entire length of each bottle. She then decorates the outside of the bottle with different chocolates. At the same time customers pour wine from the bottle they also tug at the string, allowing the chocolate to fall off and be eaten with the wine. RENAULT WINERY Renault Dinner Theater “Game Show” January 28, 2011 6:30 pm Cost: $59.95 plus tax and service charge You’re the next contestant on “Cash a La Carte”!!! Get ready to play all of your favorite game shows from TV land in this new interactive comedy. Whether it’s spinning a wheel, guessing a price or answering trivia, in this show…you’ll play, you’ll laugh, and you’ll win!!! So what are you waiting for? Come on down to Renault Winery Resort & Golf open wine bar, cash bar for beer or liquor. Reservation Requested. Ask about special hotel rates! Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm Renault will be participating in the Wine and Chocolate trail weekend, featuring some special tastings including hot mulled May wine punch served with crackers and imported cheeses, followed by Renault Pink Champagne served with chocolate covered strawberries. and capped by Renault’s award winning American port served with dark Belgian chocolate chips. Renault’s two award winning restaurant will also be open for lunch and dinner. SHARROTT WINERY Wine & Cheese Pairing Class January 28, 2011 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm This is one of our educational series classes taught by our winemaker and sommelier. This course will teach you how to pair wine and cheese through tasting examples prepared by our certified sommelier. A fun night of learning, drinking great wine and eating wonderful cheese. Tuition for the class is $25 and advance registration and payment is required. Please call the winery at 609-567-9463 to register. BYOG Weekend January 29 and 30, 2011 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Bring your own glass to Sharrott Winery and get a free tasting. Prizes will be given for unique wine glasses. No beer steins allowed! Glasses must have stems to qualify for a prize. Deliciously Decadent Wine & Chocolate Every Weekend in February at Sharrott Winery February is Wine and Chocolate month at Sharrott Winery in Blue Anchor. It’s the perfect pairing for the chills and thrills of the year’s coldest season. Each weekend we are featuring tempting treats to enjoy with our enticing wines. Whether visiting with the love of your life, cultivating a budding romance or coming in from the cold on your own or with friends, there’s no better way to warm the soul than a visit to the vineyard. For details, visit us at www.sharrottwinery.com. Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12, 2011: 11:00 am to 6:00 pm February 13, 2011: 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Admission: $10 (includes wine tasting, treats, flowers for the ladies and an etched souvenir wine glass) Rediscover the road that led you to love on this year’s Valentine’s Day Wine and Chocolate Trail. We will be fanning the flames of romance by pairing each of our award winning wines with decadent local treats, featuring Bayards Chocolates, desserts from Sweet Jonz and a range of savory and spicy cheeses. SILVER DECOY WINERY Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 and 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 PM Admission: $5.00 (complimentary glass, live music) Enjoy a weekend of award-winning wines and delicious treats with us at Silver Decoy Winery. Sample some of our exciting 2010 wines hourly with the winemaker, the best vintage in decades. Come and visit our expanded tasting area. Whether you choose to enjoy your wine by large windows overlooking the vineyard, listening to Dan’s beautiful music, or warming up by our crackling fire, this weekend will prove to be a memorable experience for all. Decadent chocolate and baked goods; as well as Brian’s masterful grillwork, will surely satisfy all your cravings. Our 2009 Sangiovese and 2008 Retriever (2nd release) will be released this weekend! We look forward to seeing you then. If you need directions or further information you can call us at 609-371-6000 or look on our website, www.silverdecoywinery.com. Hope to see you then! TERHUNE ORCHARDS & WINERY NOW OPEN! Welcome to one of the Garden State Wine Growers Association’s newest wineries! Tasting room open Wed through Sun 12-5pm. Come visit us for a wine tasting. For more information, visit: www.terhuneorchards.com. We hope to see you soon! 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton, NJ 08540 609-924-2310 TOMASELLO WINERY Fourth Annual Tomasello Wine Lovers’ Valentine Dinner Dance February 12, 2011 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm Advance ticket purchase required for this evening of dining, dancing and good wine. For $69.95 a couple, guests can enjoy a sit down dinner with salad, choice of prime rib or chicken cordon bleu and a chocolate mousse dessert. Music is by Diamond DJ’s. Cash bar is required for Tomasello’s award winning wines and champagne cocktails. Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5 p.m. Please come enjoy Tomasello’s Valentine Chocolate Fountain in our tasting room. TURDO VINEYARDS & WINERY CLOSED – SOLD OUT OF WINE Will reopen April 2011 UNIONVILLE WINERY Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 11 through 14, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm ADMISSION: Free. Wine tasting: $5 and $10 Unionville Vineyards will host a series of special events all through Valentine’s weekend, Feb. 11 through 14. We will host special dessert, cheese and dessert wine tastings and discounts in our tasting room. Winery tours will be conducted Saturday and Sunday, and winery staff will give a presentation on dessert and wine pairings. Additionally, stay tuned for Unionville Vineyards’ inaugural ‘Wine and a Film,’ the first in an ongoing series of wine-and-food-themed movie screenings. The first screening will be of a very special movie mixing wine, food and romance on Saturday, Feb. 12, details and time to be announced. Please check out our website calendar at www.unionvillevineyards.com, or call the winery at 908-788-0400 for details. VALANZANO WINERY Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 11, 12 & 13, 2011 Friday night from 7 to 11 p.m. is the Oldies Concert Dinner and Dancing in the brand new Winemakers Ballroom. This is New Jersey’s largest winery complex and the ballroom is a state of the art dining and entertainment facility. The evening features dinner and dancing and music by The Cameos, as nine-piece vocal harmony group doing music from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. Reservations are required and cost is $60 plus tax per person. Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., Valenzano Winery will be offering a lunch buffet, live entertainment from noon – 4pm, special discounts on cases of wine, chocolate pairing with Dessert wines by “Our Sweet Place”, a cheese tasting by Cabot Creamery, and book signing by local writer, Kathy Rowe, author of Dragonslayers series. Browse our large selection of wine gifts and accessories, and gourmet olive oils and vinegars by JD Gourmet. Cost with wine tasting, sales, lunch buffet and piano bar entertainment is $10 per person. Wine tasting and sales only is $5 per person. VENTIMIGLIA VINEYARD Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail February 5 & 6, 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm ADMISSION: $ 5.00 includes wine tasting and specialty chocolate tasting. A local chocolate maker, Diane Ross of “Chocolate Inspirations”, will join us in the tasting room. Her delectable chocolate truffles made with a selection of our most flavorful wines will be available for sampling and purchase. Our delicious wines make a romantic meal even more wonderful… from appetizers through dessert. Discover the delightful “marriage” of wine with chocolates! Enjoy the awesome winter beauty of our Sussex County farm. VILLA MILAGRO VINEYARDS Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm ADMISSION: $5.00 Treat your Sweetheart to wine tasting and a special Valentine gift from Villa Milagro. Ignite your wine passions with our Fuego; tease your taste buds with our Sabroso, still your emotions with our Casi Dulce……and more. Enjoy tasty tidbits to accompany your wine and local cheese from Holland Valley Dairy. Admission includes wine & cheese sampling, monogrammed gift glass, free parking, a free Valentine gift and a quick lesson in the language of love! CHEF’s Secrets Cooking Class February 19, 2011 How can chefs prepare multiple meals and menus in minutes? They have secrets!! You can learn them. Taught by Dr. Audrey Cross, a television personality and food consultant, the course includes all food and instructional materials. Best of all, you get to enjoy your results and along with Villa Milagro’s delicious wines. Please check our website for details and registration for our Chef’s Secrets Cooking Class at www.VillaMilagroVineyards.com/OurEvents.html. WAGONHOUSE WINERY Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm Complimentary wine tastings. Please note that the only address for Wagonhouse Winery Tasting Room is: 353 Wolfert Station Road, Mullica Hill, NJ 08062. Refer to www.newjerseywines.com for actual location confirmation and we encourage you to call in advance for hours and directions.     Join us throughout the state at Garden State Wineries: 4 JG’s ORCHARDS & VINEYARDS Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm Tasting: $5 (includes souvenir logo wine glass) AMALTHEA CELLARS Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm Admission: Free (VIP tasting: $10) Valentines Day is almost here — and Amalthea Cellars is ready to create an unforgettable experience for you and your sweetheart! We’ll be offering a free tasting of fine wines, gourmet chocolate, and a finely educated staff to answer all of your wine questions. For $10 per person, enjoy our VIP tasting of specially selected, favorite award-winning wines from past, present, and future vintages paired with fruits, imported cheeses, and gourmet chocolates. So visit us this Valentine’s Day weekend for a lasting experience. BELLVIEW WINERY Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 Admission: $5.00 per person Bellview is one stop not to miss on the wine trail! You and your valentine will enjoy sampling from our wide assortment of fine wines. Pair them with delectable chocolate treats homemade by the vintner’s wife. We’ll also bring in luscious goodies from Barbera’s Chocolate on Occasion in Vineland. Warm up with hot Winter Spice wine. Winery tours at 12, 2 and 4pm. Admission includes tours, tasting, chocolates and wine glass. No reservations necessary. For more information, www.BellviewWinery.com or call 856-697-7172 seven days a week, 11am to 5pm. Advanced Wine Seminar February 26, 2011 7:00 pm Admission: $25 per person, limited to 20 This evening is designed for those who know the basics of wine and wish to delve deeper into this intriguing subject. Our resident wine educator, Jan Perlstein will cover a variety of topics, such as the intricacies of restaurant wine service and how to identify faulted wine. Enjoy a vertical tasting and discussion of the wines of France’s northern Rhone Valley. Light snacks and time for questions and answers will follow. For directions, visit www.BellviewWinery.com or call 856-697-7172 daily, 10am to 5pm. BROOK HOLLOW WINERY Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 10:00 am to 5:00 pm ADMISSION: Free. Wine tasting: $3.00 Brook Hollow Winery will have the Chocolate Lovers Emporium on hand with their terrific hand made chocolates and exquisite chocolate covered strawberries. We are offering our custom Valentines Day wine bottle labels and each bottle will include a plush Valentines Day stuffed animal. Place your order at www.brookhollowwinery.com. Wine tasting is offered at $3.00 to taste all 12 of our delicious wines and you keep our custom Brook Hollow Wine glass. CREAM RIDGE WINERY Wine & Chocolate Open House February 6 & 7, 2011 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Free Admission Sample our wines with delicious chocolate! Tours given all day by our proprietor, Tom Amabile. Sample selected gourmet products from our shop. Taste a variety of items hand dipped in milk or dark chocolate. Wine Release: Chocolateberry – NJ Blueberry Wine with Chocolate! Please call us at 609-259-9797 should we have inclement weather. Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Free Admission Bring your Valentine for complimentary wine tasting and tours. Sample delicious products hand dipped in milk and dark chocolate! Try our newest Chocolateberry-Blueberry wine with chocolate! Tours given all day. Don’t miss our barrel tasting! FOUR SISTERS WINERY Murder Mystery Dinner February 12, 2011 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm Cost: $60 per person, plus tax; Tickets are available by calling 908-475-3671 Foul play is afoot at Four Sisters Winery. There has been a mysterious murder at the old vineyard and you might be the guest who cracks the case! Come join us for an evening of interactive entertainment where quests play the characters in a classic murder mystery dinner! The event includes a formal wine tasting and a delicious buffet-style dinner followed by a wine cellar tour and tasting of our dessert wines. A rose will be given to each couple and chocolates served with the dessert wines. Remember not to get too comfortable though….. A murderer walks amongst you! Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 11:00 am to 6:00 pm The winery will be offering its wines with a number of different types of chocolate including a chocolate fondue and homemade chocolate balls. HAWK HAVEN VINEYARD AND WINERY Hawk Haven Happy Hour Every Day 3:00 to 5:00 pm Daily From 3 to 5 pm everyday, it’s Hawk Haven Happy Hour. Enjoy a glass of your favorite Hawk Haven Wine for only $4. Bring a snack along with you or purchase one from our wine shop. Wines are also available by the bottle. Show your New Jersey Teachers pay stub and receive your complimentary Hawk Haven Wine Glass (valued at $5.) Excluding February 11th, 12th & 13th. Valentine’s Wine Pairing Dinner February 12, 2011 Seatings at 6:30 pm & 8:30 pm $45/per person, includes 4-course and wine pairings The Hawk Haven Wine Pairing Dinners are back! Spend a romantic evening with your sweetheart or a night out with friends at Abbie Holmes Estate in Clermont, NJ, just minutes from Hawk Haven’s tasting room. Hawk Haven will pair our wines with the culinary talent of Xenia Caterers. Chef, Sue Narrigan will prepare 3 choices for each of the 4 courses and Hawk Haven will serve a wine pairing selected by the wine maker for each course. Additional wine will be available for purchase. Reservations required, please call Dena at 609-624-1966. Abbie Holmes Estate 1943 Route 9 North, Clermont, NJ 08210. The menu selections are posted on our website www.hawkhavenvineyard.com. Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 11th 12 to 7pm February 12th 12 to 7pm February 13th 12 to 5pm Come enjoy a wine tasting or a glass of wine and chocolates from around the world! Wine Tasting $5 to $7, Wine by the Glass $5 to $12, chocolate prices vary. Extended hours on Friday & Saturday evening. Hawk Haven Happy Hour specials do not apply. HERITAGE VINEYARDS Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 5 & 6, 2011; February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5 Admission: $5 per person Guided winery Tours: Additional $5 per person A spectacular display of wine and chocolate spanning over TWO weekends! Enjoy special pairings of dark chocolate with Heritage Estate Grown Red Wines and milk chocolate with select sweet wines. Expect an array of desert pairings from our bakery and a chocolate fountain along with chocolate fondue. Heritage Vineyards will also be offering guided winery tours where guests can learn about the winemaking process! HOPEWELL VALLEY VINEYARDS Music and Wine Fridays Every Friday Night   5:00 to 8:00 pm Admission:  Free Live Music January 28; Hopewell Valley Vineyards’ Jazz Ensemble February 4; Ashley Pettet jazz vocals & piano February 11; JUNG WOMBATS!-”Duo Fuss” w/Bruuuce”Love Juice”Holsteen (The Bovine Valentine) Archetypal Rock-n-Roll February 18; John & Carm playing classic rock February 25; Hopewell Valley Vineyards’ Jazz Ensemble playing Jazz LAURITA WINERY The Gallery at Laurita Winery Presents: Ken Hubbard’s “Black and White Across America” Through February 18, 2011 Admission: Free Whether it is a dusk lit rock face in Yosemite National Park, barely revealed through a mist of clouds, or an intimate portrait of a colorful New Orleans local, Ken Hubbard’s photographs beckon the viewer to look more closely. Beneath the contemplative solitude of these images lie a disciplined sense of composition and technique. It is a vision that Ken has developed through years of experience as a professional photographer. For more information, please visit www.lauritawinery.com or call 609.758.8000. Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon Admission: Free Bring your sweetheart to Laurita! Discover and indulge in “Everything Chocolate” in the Laurita Marketplace! The first 100 women arriving at Laurita on both February 12 and February 13 will receive a long stem rose. Enjoy the sounds of live musical entertainment both days. Red Wines & Chocolate Packages will be available for purchase. Laurita Country Night – Line Dancing February 12, 2011 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm Admission: Tickets are $5.00 pre-registration and $7.00 on February 12 It’s all about having fun! Three dance lessons are included with Debbie F. Spend the rest of the night dancing to all of your requests and favorites. Great food, great wine, great dancing and a great time! Country style menu specials will be available for purchase starting at 6:00pm. Food, wines and beverages are not included in the ticket purchase. The ticket price for attendance is for participants and observers and includes lessons and dancing. For more information, call 609.758.8000. Capturing Great Vacation Photos by Ken Hubbard February 18, 2011 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Admission: Tickets are $45.00 per person. Professional photographer, Ken Hubbard, whose photographs are currently on display at Laurita, will be offering a photography lecture that will address capturing great vacation photos and color photography. The seminar will include a wine tasting of Laurita wines. Whether you are a professional, novice or beginner, you will walk away with some wonderful tips and techniques. As a bonus to the lecture, a Tamron representative will be displaying the full line of Tamron Lenses for you to view and try. Ken Hubbard shoots with Tamron lenses. For more information, call 609.758.8000. Mary Todd Lincoln Reenactment February 19, 2011 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm Admission: Free The story of Mary Todd Lincoln, wife of President Abraham Lincoln, is shared including information about the parties, soirees and teas Mary would have attended and/or given in the White House. Mary, played by Judi Cox, will also tell stories about herself, Abe, the children and life in the 1860′s. Paul Serge, portrays Elmer Elsworth Hager, a civilian. He plays a Martin Acoustic Guitar, which was a popular instrument of the 1860′s and he will perform music of the era. For more information, call 609.758.8000. NATALI VINEYARDS Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm Admission: $5 Wine Tastings A perfect re-treat for any couple who wants to experience a true “Old World Wine Making” Vineyard/Winery. Take free vineyard/barrel room tours at 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm both days. All wine tastings include samples of imported and domestic cheeses from a local cheese shop as well as some light, sweet samples from Spiked Cakes’ specialty wine infused valentines chocolates/desserts. Visitors will be able to pair some chocolate with Natali’s 100 percent Strawberry Wine. Each lady guest will receive a fresh cut rose from a local Cape May County florist. For more information please call 609-465-0075 or log onto NataliWines.com. OLD YORK CELLARS Wine and Cheesecake February 5, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm Admission: $5 Looking for something different to give your sweetheart this Valentines Day? Then come to Old York Cellars for our wine and cheesecake Saturday. Maddalenas will be on hand to sweeten your day with their famous cheesecake. Nothing says, “I love you” like a Maddalenas cheesecake and Old York Cellars wine. Visit www.oldyorkcellars.com or call 908.284.9463 for more information, or for more information on Maddalenas visit www.maddalenascatering.com Wine And Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 to 13, 2011 1:00 pm Admission: $5 Join Old York Cellars, along with wineries all over the state, for the Garden State Wine Growers annual Wine and Chocolate Weekend. We will be pairing our wines with sweet treats from The Chocolate Box of Lambertville. Call 908.284.9463 or visit www.oldyorkcellars.com for more information. Tank Tasting – Reds February 19, 2011 1:00 and 3:00 pm Admission: $7.50 Preview the 2010 reds before anyone else. This is a unique opportunity to sample the new vintage of the Old York Cellars reds, with our winemaker, as they make their journey from vine to bottle. Following the tank tasting you will get the opportunity to compare 2009 with 2010 and decide if it is time to stock up, or make room in the cellar for 2010. Call 908.284.9463 or visit www.oldyorkcellars.com for more information. Wine and Dine To A Healthier You! February 26, 2011 1:00 pm Admission: $10.00 It’s the New Year and time for the resolutions to eat and live healthier. What better place to start than eating great food and wine, and learning how you can incorporate these foods into your diet. Dr. Deborah Neiman, M.D., medical director of Step Ahead in Bedminster, will be on hand to answer all your questions and share ideas on how to make this a healthy year. She will be bringing with her personal trainer, Noelle Iusardi to help breathe new life into your fitness routine, and Lauren Triglia, registered dietician, to answer any of your nutrition questions. Don’t miss this special, healthy addition to our food and wine series. Reservations are required and seats are limited so call 908.284.9463 or email laurin@oldyorkcellars.com to reserve your spot. For more information visit www.oldyorkcellars.com or to learn more about Step Ahead visit www.stepaheadnj.com PLAGIDO’S WINERY Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 and 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 PM Admission: $5.00 includes souvenir etched wine glass Sample our award winning wines and choose from a wide variety of desserts to sample from milk and white chocolate dipped strawberries and other dipped desserts along with éclairs, cream puffs, cakes and cookies. The owner of Creative Confections, Cheryl Pirrera from Toms River, will be at the winery Saturday and Sunday sampling and selling her sweet creations. She will also be dipping Plagido wine bottles in her chocolate. Cheryl wraps each bottle in cellophane and puts a small string along the entire length of each bottle. She then decorates the outside of the bottle with different chocolates. At the same time customers pour wine from the bottle they also tug at the string, allowing the chocolate to fall off and be eaten with the wine. RENAULT WINERY Renault Dinner Theater “Game Show” January 28, 2011 6:30 pm Cost: $59.95 plus tax and service charge You’re the next contestant on “Cash a La Carte”!!! Get ready to play all of your favorite game shows from TV land in this new interactive comedy. Whether it’s spinning a wheel, guessing a price or answering trivia, in this show…you’ll play, you’ll laugh, and you’ll win!!! So what are you waiting for? Come on down to Renault Winery Resort & Golf open wine bar, cash bar for beer or liquor. Reservation Requested. Ask about special hotel rates! Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm Renault will be participating in the Wine and Chocolate trail weekend, featuring some special tastings including hot mulled May wine punch served with crackers and imported cheeses, followed by Renault Pink Champagne served with chocolate covered strawberries. and capped by Renault’s award winning American port served with dark Belgian chocolate chips. Renault’s two award winning restaurant will also be open for lunch and dinner. SHARROTT WINERY Wine & Cheese Pairing Class January 28, 2011 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm This is one of our educational series classes taught by our winemaker and sommelier. This course will teach you how to pair wine and cheese through tasting examples prepared by our certified sommelier. A fun night of learning, drinking great wine and eating wonderful cheese. Tuition for the class is $25 and advance registration and payment is required. Please call the winery at 609-567-9463 to register. BYOG Weekend January 29 and 30, 2011 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Bring your own glass to Sharrott Winery and get a free tasting. Prizes will be given for unique wine glasses. No beer steins allowed! Glasses must have stems to qualify for a prize. Deliciously Decadent Wine & Chocolate Every Weekend in February at Sharrott Winery February is Wine and Chocolate month at Sharrott Winery in Blue Anchor. It’s the perfect pairing for the chills and thrills of the year’s coldest season. Each weekend we are featuring tempting treats to enjoy with our enticing wines. Whether visiting with the love of your life, cultivating a budding romance or coming in from the cold on your own or with friends, there’s no better way to warm the soul than a visit to the vineyard. For details, visit us at www.sharrottwinery.com. Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12, 2011: 11:00 am to 6:00 pm February 13, 2011: 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Admission: $10 (includes wine tasting, treats, flowers for the ladies and an etched souvenir wine glass) Rediscover the road that led you to love on this year’s Valentine’s Day Wine and Chocolate Trail. We will be fanning the flames of romance by pairing each of our award winning wines with decadent local treats, featuring Bayards Chocolates, desserts from Sweet Jonz and a range of savory and spicy cheeses. SILVER DECOY WINERY Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 and 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 PM Admission: $5.00 (complimentary glass, live music) Enjoy a weekend of award-winning wines and delicious treats with us at Silver Decoy Winery. Sample some of our exciting 2010 wines hourly with the winemaker, the best vintage in decades. Come and visit our expanded tasting area. Whether you choose to enjoy your wine by large windows overlooking the vineyard, listening to Dan’s beautiful music, or warming up by our crackling fire, this weekend will prove to be a memorable experience for all. Decadent chocolate and baked goods; as well as Brian’s masterful grillwork, will surely satisfy all your cravings. Our 2009 Sangiovese and 2008 Retriever (2nd release) will be released this weekend! We look forward to seeing you then. If you need directions or further information you can call us at 609-371-6000 or look on our website, www.silverdecoywinery.com. Hope to see you then! TERHUNE ORCHARDS & WINERY NOW OPEN! Welcome to one of the Garden State Wine Growers Association’s newest wineries! Tasting room open Wed through Sun 12-5pm. Come visit us for a wine tasting. For more information, visit: www.terhuneorchards.com. We hope to see you soon! 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton, NJ 08540 609-924-2310 TOMASELLO WINERY Fourth Annual Tomasello Wine Lovers’ Valentine Dinner Dance February 12, 2011 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm Advance ticket purchase required for this evening of dining, dancing and good wine. For $69.95 a couple, guests can enjoy a sit down dinner with salad, choice of prime rib or chicken cordon bleu and a chocolate mousse dessert. Music is by Diamond DJ’s. Cash bar is required for Tomasello’s award winning wines and champagne cocktails. Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5 p.m. Please come enjoy Tomasello’s Valentine Chocolate Fountain in our tasting room. TURDO VINEYARDS & WINERY CLOSED – SOLD OUT OF WINE Will reopen April 2011 UNIONVILLE WINERY Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 11 through 14, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm ADMISSION: Free. Wine tasting: $5 and $10 Unionville Vineyards will host a series of special events all through Valentine’s weekend, Feb. 11 through 14. We will host special dessert, cheese and dessert wine tastings and discounts in our tasting room. Winery tours will be conducted Saturday and Sunday, and winery staff will give a presentation on dessert and wine pairings. Additionally, stay tuned for Unionville Vineyards’ inaugural ‘Wine and a Film,’ the first in an ongoing series of wine-and-food-themed movie screenings. The first screening will be of a very special movie mixing wine, food and romance on Saturday, Feb. 12, details and time to be announced. Please check out our website calendar at www.unionvillevineyards.com, or call the winery at 908-788-0400 for details. VALANZANO WINERY Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 11, 12 & 13, 2011 Friday night from 7 to 11 p.m. is the Oldies Concert Dinner and Dancing in the brand new Winemakers Ballroom. This is New Jersey’s largest winery complex and the ballroom is a state of the art dining and entertainment facility. The evening features dinner and dancing and music by The Cameos, as nine-piece vocal harmony group doing music from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. Reservations are required and cost is $60 plus tax per person. Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., Valenzano Winery will be offering a lunch buffet, live entertainment from noon – 4pm, special discounts on cases of wine, chocolate pairing with Dessert wines by “Our Sweet Place”, a cheese tasting by Cabot Creamery, and book signing by local writer, Kathy Rowe, author of Dragonslayers series. Browse our large selection of wine gifts and accessories, and gourmet olive oils and vinegars by JD Gourmet. Cost with wine tasting, sales, lunch buffet and piano bar entertainment is $10 per person. Wine tasting and sales only is $5 per person. VENTIMIGLIA VINEYARD Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail February 5 & 6, 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm ADMISSION: $ 5.00 includes wine tasting and specialty chocolate tasting. A local chocolate maker, Diane Ross of “Chocolate Inspirations”, will join us in the tasting room. Her delectable chocolate truffles made with a selection of our most flavorful wines will be available for sampling and purchase. Our delicious wines make a romantic meal even more wonderful… from appetizers through dessert. Discover the delightful “marriage” of wine with chocolates! Enjoy the awesome winter beauty of our Sussex County farm. VILLA MILAGRO VINEYARDS Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm ADMISSION: $5.00 Treat your Sweetheart to wine tasting and a special Valentine gift from Villa Milagro. Ignite your wine passions with our Fuego; tease your taste buds with our Sabroso, still your emotions with our Casi Dulce……and more. Enjoy tasty tidbits to accompany your wine and local cheese from Holland Valley Dairy. Admission includes wine & cheese sampling, monogrammed gift glass, free parking, a free Valentine gift and a quick lesson in the language of love! CHEF’s Secrets Cooking Class February 19, 2011 How can chefs prepare multiple meals and menus in minutes? They have secrets!! You can learn them. Taught by Dr. Audrey Cross, a television personality and food consultant, the course includes all food and instructional materials. Best of all, you get to enjoy your results and along with Villa Milagro’s delicious wines. Please check our website for details and registration for our Chef’s Secrets Cooking Class at www.VillaMilagroVineyards.com/OurEvents.html. WAGONHOUSE WINERY Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail February 12 & 13, 2011 Noon to 5:00 pm Complimentary wine tastings. Please note that the only address for Wagonhouse Winery Tasting Room is: 353 Wolfert Station Road, Mullica Hill, NJ 08062. Refer to www.newjerseywines.com for actual location confirmation and we encourage you to call in advance for hours and directions.