Show 563, February 3, 2024: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

“Celebrity chef and best-selling author Carla Hall takes viewers on a global adventure to explore the unexpected roots of popular dishes within today’s American food culture on the new original Max series Chasing Flavor now available for streaming on MAX. Follow along as Carla’s curiosity about America’s most delicious dishes from chicken pot pie to ice cream leads her to Ghana, Italy, Turkey, and more. Along the way, Carla traces the history and lineage of dishes, discovering the interconnected, international origins and cultures that paved the way for today’s American cuisine – because if you don’t know the history, then you don’t know the dish. Join Carla as she chases flavor across the globe to find out how it all comes together on the American plate.” Chef Carla Hall is our energetic guide as we embark on the global journey of Chasing Flavor.

Michael Crupain M.D. is a board-certified preventive medicine physician, Emmy® Award-winning producer, cookbook author, and self-described “wellness crusader,” who recently released his third book, The Power Five – A Cookbook. He’s also a certified foodie. Unlike other health books that are all about what not to eat, this book is a celebration of eating more.  Within its pages, Dr. Crupain spotlights five food categories—fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds, fish—that not only support health and longevity, but are also incredibly delicious, especially when home cooks are armed with his insights.  Healthy cooking and eating shouldn’t mean boring.  With 85 vibrant, nourishing recipes, The Power Five brings smart, creative, and practical ideas to the table.” Dr. Crupain trades his stethoscope for a wire whisk and joins us.

Bar Chelou is Pasadena’s first true neo-bistro, a casual, convivial space that is both a distillation of Chef Doug Rankin‘s broad gastronomic interests and a deeply personal expression of his individualistic style. ‘Chelou’ (French slang for ‘strange’ or ‘unexpected’) is both the name and unifying theme of the restaurant, which draws from a range of culinary traditions and service styles to create something personal, novel and fun. The restaurant is located within the historic Pasadena Playhouse complex.” Standout dishes include “Carrots,” a salad with coconut dressing, lime leaf, peanuts and shoestring potatoes, and Rainbow Trout with corn rice and garlic chive pil-pil. Chef Doug Rankin takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

The Los Angeles International Wine Competition {LAIWC) at Fairplex in Pomona is celebrating 89 years, the oldest wine competition in the USA, tracing its heritage back to the end of the Prohibition era in 1935. As the original L.A.-based competition, the Los Angeles International Wine Competition was established to celebrate the resurgence of winemaking and has continued to uphold its legacy as one of the United States’ foremost wine competitions. With a rich history and a global reach, this competition has attracted entries from wine regions across the world.” Chairwoman Spreti Valente, a certified sommelier, joins us to uncork all that is the Los Angeles International Wine Competition.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. “The Big Game” with the 49ers and the Chiefs is coming up on February 11th. Chef Andrew will share his salivating ideas for the tastiest in “Big Game Edibles.” Think enhanced chicken wings purest guacamole.

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Show 563, February 3, 2024: The L.A. International Wine Competition with Chairperson Spreti Valente, MS

Certified Sommelier Spreti Valente

“The Los Angeles International Wine Competition {LAIWC) at Fairplex in Pomona is celebrating 89 years, the oldest wine competition in the USA, tracing its heritage back to the end of the Prohibition era in 1935.”

“As the original L.A.-based competition, the Los Angeles International Wine Competition was established to celebrate the resurgence of winemaking and has continued to uphold its legacy as one of the United States’ foremost wine competitions. With a rich history and a global reach, this competition has attracted entries from wine regions across the world.”

“Under the expert leadership of Chairwoman Spreti Valente, CS, the competition is set for a momentous 2024 edition. Valente, a passionate advocate for exceptional wines, has embarked on a mission to survey diverse wine regions, having already journeyed through much of California, New Mexico, Missouri, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and the Finger Lakes Region of New York in search of outstanding wines to enter into the competition.”

The final entry deadline is Feb. 23, 2024, with judging scheduled to take place in Los Angeles on March 20 and 21, 2024.

“Medal-winning wines from LAIWC are featured in the LA County Fair’s wine education program and are poured at a special consumer event in the summer, Cheers. Cheers offers wine aficionados and casual wine drinkers an opportunity to explore the best of the best from the competition, providing them with guidance as they select wines to drink at home and at play.”

Chairwoman Spreti Valente joins us to uncork all that is the Los Angeles International Wine Competition.

February 3: Carla Hall, Michael Crupain M.D., Bar Chelou, Los Angeles International Wine Competition

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Carla Hall with Max’s “Chasing Flavor” Part One
Segment Three: Chef Carla Hall with Max’s “Chasing Flavor” Part Two
Segment Four: Michael Crupain, M.D. with The Power Five – A Cookbook Part One
Segment Five: Michael Crupain, M.D. with The Power Five – A Cookbook Part Two
Segment Six: Executive Chef Doug Rankin, Bar Chelou, Pasadena
Segment Seven: The L.A. International Wine Competition with Chairperson Spreti Valente, MS
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host and Proprietor of Calico Fish House, with “Ask the Chef”

Andy Harris, Executive Producer and Co-host previews the show.

“Celebrity chef and best-selling author Carla Hall takes viewers on a global adventure to explore the unexpected roots of popular dishes within today’s American food culture on the new original Max series Chasing Flavor now available for streaming on MAX. Follow along as Carla’s curiosity about America’s most delicious dishes from chicken pot pie to ice cream leads her to Ghana, Italy, Turkey, and more. Along the way, Carla traces the history and lineage of dishes, discovering the interconnected, international origins and cultures that paved the way for today’s American cuisine – because if you don’t know the history, then you don’t know the dish. Join Carla as she chases flavor across the globe to find out how it all comes together on the American plate.” Chef Carla Hall is our energetic guide as we embark on the global journey of Chasing Flavor.

“Michael Crupain M.D. is a board-certified preventive medicine physician, Emmy® Award-winning producer, cookbook author, and self-described “wellness crusader,” who recently released his third book, The Power Five – A Cookbook. Unlike other health books that are all about what not to eat, this book is a celebration of eating more. Within its pages, Dr. Crupain spotlights five food categories—fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds, fish—that not only support health and longevity, but are also incredibly delicious, especially when home cooks are armed with his insights. Healthy cooking and eating shouldn’t mean boring. With 85 vibrant, nourishing recipes, The Power Five brings smart, creative, and practical ideas to the table.” Dr. Crupain trades his stethoscope for a wire whisk and joins us.

“Bar Chelou is Pasadena’s first true neo-bistro, a casual, convivial space that is both a distillation of Chef Doug Rankin’s broad gastronomic interests and a deeply personal expression of his individualistic style. ‘Chelou’ (French slang for ‘strange’ or ‘unexpected’) is both the name and unifying theme of the restaurant, which draws from a range of culinary traditions and service styles to create something personal, novel and fun. The restaurant is located within the historic Pasadena Playhouse complex.” Standout dishes include “Carrots,” a salad with coconut dressing, lime leaf, peanuts and shoestring potatoes, and Rainbow Trout with corn rice and garlic chive pil-pil. Chef Doug Rankin takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

“The Los Angeles International Wine Competition {LAIWC) at Fairplex in Pomona is celebrating 89 years, the oldest wine competition in the USA, tracing its heritage back to the end of the Prohibition era in 1935. As the original L.A.-based competition, the Los Angeles International Wine Competition was established to celebrate the resurgence of winemaking and has continued to uphold its legacy as one of the United States’ foremost wine competitions. With a rich history and a global reach, this competition has attracted entries from wine regions across the world.” Chairwoman Spreti Valente, a certified sommelier, joins us to uncork all that is the Los Angeles International Wine Competition.

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm(New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative “Ask the Chef” segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries. “The Big Game” with the 49ers and The Chiefs is coming up on February 11th. Chef Andrew will share his salivating ideas for the tastiest in “Big Game Edibles.”

All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Celebrity Chef Carla Hall

“Celebrity chef and best-selling author Carla Hall takes viewers on a global adventure to explore the unexpected roots of popular dishes within today’s American food culture on the new original Max series Chasing Flavor now available for streaming on MAX. Follow along as Carla’s curiosity about America’s most delicious dishes from chicken pot pie to ice cream leads her to Ghana, Italy, Turkey, and more. Along the way, Carla traces the history and lineage of dishes, discovering the interconnected, international origins and cultures that paved the way for today’s American cuisine – because if you don’t know the history, then you don’t know the dish. Join Carla as she chases flavor across the globe to find out how it all comes together on the American plate.”

“Chasing Flavor brings together so many of the things I am passionate about. It’s about food, and family, and sharing stories and history and travel. And more importantly, giving credit to the cultures that had a hand in a particular dish,” said Hall. “I’m really proud of this show. Everyone involved in making it, myself included, put their heart and souls into it. It was a wonderful adventure, and I can’t wait for others to share it.”

“Throughout the six half-hour episodes, Carla dives into American classics from shrimp and grits to hot chicken, to barbeque, and more. On one episode, Carla is on an unexpected dairy adventure that takes her from the United States, to Italy, and to Turkey to discover the origins of ice cream. Stopping at the top ice cream spots in New York and Philadelphia, Carla learns the unique churning methods used to give the classic dessert its smooth, creamy texture. Then, in Italy Carla gets a lesson on the difference between ice cream and gelato, and in Turkey, Carla is like a kid again playing with her food as she uncovers a unique ingredient that gives ice cream its silkiness.”

“Carla’s travels do not end there as she goes on a taco trip to Mexico and discovers how a vertical flame helped cultures collide to create tacos al pastor. She also explores how Jamaica helped to shape the flaky crust of chicken pot pie, and in Ghana, she gets a spicy taste of the roots of hot chicken with chef Eric Adjepong. With every bite in every country, Carla’s journey highlights the influences that have shaped American cuisine.”

Chef Carla Hall is our energetic guide as we embark on the global journey of Chasing Flavor.

Author Michael Crupain MD

Michael Crupain M.D. is a board-certified preventive medicine physician, Emmy® Award-winning producer, cookbook author, and self-described “wellness crusader,” who recently released his third book, The Power Five – A Cookbook. Unlike other health books that are all about what not to eat, this book is a celebration of eating more. Within its pages, Dr. Crupain spotlights five food categories—fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds, fish—that not only support health and longevity, but are also incredibly delicious, especially when home cooks are armed with his insights. Healthy cooking and eating shouldn’t mean boring. With 85 vibrant, nourishing recipes, The Power Five brings smart, creative, and practical ideas to the table.”

“Recipe spotlights include Eggplant Parmigiana a doctor can actually approve of, Miso “Creamed” Corn, Lasagna Bread, Roasted Harissa Carrots with Carrot-Top Pesto and Avocado, Shrimp Fried Oats, along with desserts like spiced brownies and fruit filled cakes.”

“Eating the Power Five foods doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or your favorite meals – you can still have pastas, breads and sweets. After years of research and hours in the kitchen, Dr. Crupain has crafted a collection of more than 85 mouthwatering recipes that put flavor on the front burner while helping to ward off illness and increase longevity.”

“Michael Crupain, MD, MPH, is a board-certified preventive medicine physician, Emmy® Award-winning producer, co-author of What to Eat When and the What to Eat When Cookbook, and self-described “wellness crusader,” who just released his third book, The Power Five. He’s spent years studying culinary practices in his travels around the world and in kitchens of both grandmas and great chefs, bringing this wisdom to his medical career that spans EVP at the digital health company Sharecare, director of food safety testing at Consumer Reports, chief medical officer at The Dr. Oz Show, and faculty member at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.”

Dr. Crupain trades his stethoscope for a wire whisk and joins us.

Doug Rankin of Bar Chelou

Bar Chelou is Pasadena’s first true neo-bistro, a casual, convivial space that is both a distillation of Chef Doug Rankin’s broad gastronomic interests and a deeply personal expression of his individualistic style. ‘Chelou’ (French slang for ‘strange’ or ‘unexpected’) is both the name and unifying theme of the restaurant, which draws from a range of culinary traditions and service styles to create something personal, novel and fun. The restaurant is located within the historic Pasadena Playhouse complex.”

Standout dishes include “Carrots,” a salad with coconut dressing, lime leaf, peanuts and shoestring potatoes, and Rainbow Trout with corn rice and garlic chive pil-pil.

Chef Doug Rankin takes a break from his busy kitchen to join us.

Certified Sommelier Spreti Valente

“The Los Angeles International Wine Competition {LAIWC) at Fairplex in Pomona is celebrating 89 years, the oldest wine competition in the USA, tracing its heritage back to the end of the Prohibition era in 1935.”

“As the original L.A.-based competition, the Los Angeles International Wine Competition was established to celebrate the resurgence of winemaking and has continued to uphold its legacy as one of the United States’ foremost wine competitions. With a rich history and a global reach, this competition has attracted entries from wine regions across the world.”

“Under the expert leadership of Chairwoman Spreti Valente, CS, the competition is set for a momentous 2024 edition. Valente, a passionate advocate for exceptional wines, has embarked on a mission to survey diverse wine regions, having already journeyed through much of California, New Mexico, Missouri, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and the Finger Lakes Region of New York in search of outstanding wines to enter into the competition.”

The final entry deadline is Feb. 23, 2024, with judging scheduled to take place in Los Angeles on March 20 and 21, 2024.

“Medal-winning wines from LAIWC are featured in the LA County Fair’s wine education program and are poured at a special consumer event in the summer, Cheers. Cheers offers wine aficionados and casual wine drinkers an opportunity to explore the best of the best from the competition, providing them with guidance as they select wines to drink at home and at play.”

Chairwoman Spreti Valente joins us to uncork all that is the Los Angeles International Wine Competition.

Chef Andrew Gruel savoring a New Jersey style Pizza

Our own Chef Andrew Gruel, the menu-maker behind the full-service Calico Fish House (in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach) and also the founder and pizzaiola of the fast-casual Big Parm (New Jersey-style pizza) located in the Mess Hall in Tustin provides another timely and informative Ask the Chef segment where he responds to listeners’ thoughtful inquiries.

“The Big Game” with the 49ers and the Chiefs is coming up on Sunday, February 11th. Chef Andrew will share his salivating ideas for the tastiest in worthy “Big Game Edibles.”

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris
Segment Two: Chef Carla Hall with Max’s “Chasing Flavor” Part One
Segment Three: Chef Carla Hall with Max’s “Chasing Flavor” Part Two
Segment Four: Michael Crupain, M.D. with The Power Five – A Cookbook Part One
Segment Five: Michael Crupain, M.D. with The Power Five – A Cookbook Part Two
Segment Six: Executive Chef Doug Rankin, Bar Chelou, Pasadena
Segment Seven: The L.A. International Wine Competition with Chairperson Spreti Valente, MS
Segment Eight: Chef Andrew Gruel, Co-Host and Proprietor of Calico Fish House, with “Ask the Chef”

Show 182, July 30, 2016: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel

Andrew Gruel at the AM830 KLAA StudiosExecutive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, Irvine at UCI and, most recently, Brea, is back as today’s special Guest Host. In May in Chicago he received Nation’s Restaurant News’ Trendsetter MenuMaster Award for Slapfish during the National Restaurant Association’s annual gathering.

Now a (hopefully) tantalizing preview of Saturday’s overloaded show and not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s actually a pretty good thing…

The skills of butchery meet the world of fresh produce in The Vegetable Butcher – How to Select, Prep, Slice, Dice, and Masterfully Cook Vegetables from Artichokes to Zucchini. This well-researched, essential, inspiring guide demystifies the world of vegetables. Author and Chef Cara Mangini joins us from Columbus, Ohio.

For 77 years, the Los Angeles International Wine Competition has showcased the finest domestic and international vintages through a wine-tasting event that is widely considered to be one of the most prestigious in the United States. The winning wines are available for tasting at the upcoming L.A. County Fair. Malibu winemaker Jim Palmer Vineyards scored an impressive 98-point rating from the judges for his 2014 Pinot Noir earning a Gold Medal. He’s our guest along with Master Sommelier Michael Jordan, the Competition Chairman.

What’s new, fresh and exciting in the world of Summer fruits and vegetables? Glad you asked. Joining us for an informative update is our resident Produce authority, Robert Schueller of Melissa’s World Variety Produce. For starters it’s everything grapes. Think Red Muscato, Green Muscato, Black Muscato, Jelly Drop, Candy Sweet Grapes, Cotton Candy and Champagne grapes. They are all now best of the season. Also Jackfruit, the hefty cousin of breadfruit and figs.

Since 2012 Clarissa Nagy has been the Winemaker at Santa Maria’s Riverbench Vineyard & Winery. Riverbench Vineyard was established in 1973 when its first Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes were planted on the property. Clarissa also has her own label, c nagy, with a rustic tasting room in Orcutt. Her first release was in 2005. Clarissa uncorks it for us.

Our Mad Hungry Woman blogger, Anita Lau, has just returned from a visit to Melbourne and Queensland state in Australia. Among her finds is Bass & Flinders, a boutique gin distillery in Mornington Peninsula, Victoria. Anita joins us with her spirited report.

In 2009, Stuart Skversky, a Los Angeles rising star chef, gave up his life in Los Angeles and moved to Chiang Mai, Thailand to become a full time volunteer at the Wat Dan Chan (a local Buddhist temple), teaching local children English, cooking and baking. Recognizing a need to help prepare these high risk Hill Tribe kids following their graduation, he founded Stu and the Kids to better prepare them for adulthood, helping them get into a university or technical college and giving them the tools for an independent future. Stu and the Kids’ 2016 Los Angeles Fundraiser was at Vibiana on July 31st. Chef Stuart Skversky is our guest.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

July 30: Vegetable Butcher, Jim Palmer Vineyards, Melissa’s Produce, Clarissa Nagy, Mad Hungry Woman, Stu and the Kids

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel
Segment Two: Chef Cara Mangini, Little Eater, The Vegetable Butcher
Segment Three: LA International Wine Competition
Segment Four: Robert Schueller, Prince of Produce, Melissa’s / World Variety Produce Part One
Segment Five: Robert Schueller, Prince of Produce, Melissa’s / World Variety Produce Part Two
Segment Six: Clarissa Nagy, Winemaker – Riverbench Vineyard & Winery, Santa Maria & Proprietress/Winemaker of c nagy
Segment Seven: Anita Lau, Diary of a Mad Hungry Woman blogger
Segment Eight: Chef Stuart Skversky, “Stu and The Kids”

Andrew Gruel at the AM830 KLAA StudiosExecutive Chef Andrew Gruel of the rapidly growing Slapfish empire with restaurants in Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, LAX, Irvine at UCI and, most recently, Brea, is back as today’s special Guest Host. In May in Chicago he received Nation’s Restaurant News’ Trendsetter MenuMaster Award for Slapfish during the National Restaurant Association’s annual gathering.

Now a (hopefully) tantalizing preview of Saturday’s overloaded show and not, with profuse apologies, for dieters. If we’re successful we will always leave you incredibly hungry and thirsty. In our case that’s actually a pretty good thing…

The skills of butchery meet the world of fresh produce in The Vegetable Butcher – How to Select, Prep, Slice, Dice, and Masterfully Cook Vegetables from Artichokes to Zucchini. This well-researched, essential, inspiring guide demystifies the world of vegetables. Author and Chef Cara Mangini joins us from Columbus, Ohio.

For 77 years, the Los Angeles International Wine Competition has showcased the finest domestic and international vintages through a wine-tasting event that is widely considered to be one of the most prestigious in the United States. The winning wines are available for tasting at the upcoming L.A. County Fair. Malibu winemaker Jim Palmer Vineyards scored an impressive 98 point rating from the judges for his 2014 Pinot Noir earning a Gold Medal. He’s our guest along with Master Sommelier Michael Jordan, the Competition Chairman.

What’s new, fresh and exciting in the world of Summer fruits and vegetables? Glad you asked. Joining us for an informative update is our resident Produce authority, Robert Schueller of Melissa’s World Variety Produce. For starters it’s everything grapes. Think Red Muscato, Green Muscato, Black Muscato, Jelly Drop, Candy Sweet grapes, Cotton Candy and Champagne grapes. They are all now best of the season. Also Jackfruit, the hefty cousin of breadfruit and figs.

Since 2012 Clarissa Nagy has been the Winemaker at Santa Maria’s Riverbench Vineyard & Winery. Riverbench Vineyard was established in 1973 when its first Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes were planted on the property. Clarissa also has her own label, c nagy, with a rustic tasting room in Orcutt. Her first release was in 2005. Clarissa uncorks it for us.

Our Mad Hungry Woman blogger, Anita Lau, has just returned from a visit to Melbourne and Victoria state in Australia. Among her finds is Bass & Flinders, a boutique gin distillery in Mornington Peninsula, Victoria. Anita joins us with her spirited report.

In 2009, Stuart Skversky, a Los Angeles rising star chef, gave up his life in Los Angeles and moved to Chiang Mai, Thailand to become a full time volunteer at the Wat Dan Chan (a local Buddhist temple), teaching local children English, cooking and baking. Recognizing a need to help prepare these high risk Hill Tribe kids following their graduation, he founded Stu and the Kids to better prepare them for adulthood, helping them get into a university or technical college and giving them the tools for an independent future. Stu and the Kids’ 2016 Los Angeles Fundraiser is at Vibiana on July 31st. Chef Stuart Skversky is our guest.

All of this and lots more absolutely incredible deliciousness on Saturday’s show!

Cara Mangini, the Vegetable ButcherThe skills of butchery meet the world of fresh produce in The Vegetable Butcher – How to Select, Prep, Slice, Dice, and Masterfully Cook Vegetables from Artichokes to Zucchini authored by Chef Cara Mangini. This well-researched, essential, inspiring guide demystifies the world of vegetables. Along the way Mangini shares over 150 mouthwatering recipes that put vegetables front and center.

Author and Chef Cara Mangini joins us from Columbus, Ohio.

Cara Mangini comes from a long line of butchers. Her Italian grandfather and great-grandfather gracefully cut tenderloins and butterflied chickens for a living. Mangini also wields a knife, but hers is used against the curves of butternut squash and stalks of freshly picked Brussels sprouts at Little Eater, her vegetable-inspired restaurant, produce stand, and artisanal foods boutique in Columbus, Ohio.

Mangini’s basic recipes provide foundational methods that every cook should know – how to steam or saute spinach, the art of making crispy fingerling potatoes, how to perfectly pan-roast Brussels sprouts, and much more. From there she serves up an array of creative recipes that celebrate the soul-satisfying flavor of each vegetable – Orange-Shallot Fiddlehead Ferns and Ricotta Crostini, Cardoon and Fontina Bread Pudding, Parsnip-Ginger Layer Cake with Browned Buttercream Frosting, and many other sure-to-be new favorites.

For 77 years, the Los Angeles International Wine Competition has showcased the finest domestic and international vintages through a wine-tasting event that is widely considered to be one of the most prestigious in the United States. The winning wines are available for tasting at the upcoming L.A. County Fair.

Jim PalmerMalibu winemaker Jim Palmer Vineyards scored an impressive 98 point rating from the judges for his 2014 Pinot Noir earning a Gold Medal. Palmer’s wine bested 3000 plus entries from around the Globe. He’s our guest along with Master Sommelier Michael Jordan, the Competition Chairman.

Judged in May using a point system, the wine competition saw 3,010 international wines tasted. Many varietals and price ranges were represented, with the point system acknowledging each varietal’s special attributes and providing a level of precision in the competition’s wine ranking systems, a benefit for the competition and wine enthusiasts. Wines were tasted by an international panel comprised of judges ranging from Master Sommeliers to chefs to wine writers. There were a total of 168 Best of Class Awards, 572 Gold Medal Awards, 1,271 Silver Medal Awards and 736 Bronze Medal Awards.

“The wonderful thing about our competition is that you’ll find something for everyone among the winners,” said competition chairman Michael Jordan, Master Sommelier, Certified Wine Educator and director of global key accounts with Jackson Family Fine Wines. “From the complex with a higher-price point for the experienced palate to wonderful lower-price point wines for the novice, our winners represent a variety of wines.”

Melissa's Produce GrapesWhat’s new, fresh and exciting in the world of Summer fruits and vegetables? Glad you asked. Joining us for an update is our resident Produce authority, Robert Schueller of Melissa’s World Variety Produce. For starters it’s everything grapes. Think Red Muscato, Green Muscato, Black Muscato, Jelly Drop, Candy Sweet Grapes, Cotton Candy and Champagne grapes. They are all now best of the season.

Jelly Drops Grapes are a hybrid of the popular Thompson Seedless grape and the rich, meaty Concord grape. The result is a plump, juicy, dark purple seedless table grape with a thin skin. Their aromatic, earthy flavor is similar to that of a Concord, but mellowed by the mild sweetness of the Thompson. This variety is a perfect out of hand summer snack fruit or delicious when used as a sweet sauce ingredient for almost any kind of meat or poultry dish.

A late-season variety (green) with an extremely high sugar content, the Candy Sweets® name describes its great flavor! Though petite in size, this amber-green seedless grape has a big taste that makes it an excellent kids snack or lunchbox favorite. Serve a bunch or two on a party platter; this grape’s firm, crunchy texture and sweetness plays well against any extra sharp cheese.

Robert Schueller of Melissa's World Variety Produce in the AM830 KLAA StudioMelissa’s Jackfruit is the world’s largest tree fruit, averaging between 15 and 33 pounds per fruit. This large fruit grows directly out of the trunk or branches. The exterior of the Jackfruit is covered with spiny, knobby bumps and is green in color.

As the fruit ripens the skin turns to a yellow color and is very fragrant. The pink or yellow flesh is best when eaten fresh with hints of mango and melon.

Jackfruit can also be enjoyed unripe, cooked in various recipes. The flesh of the Jackfruit can be used in desserts, as well. This soft, flaky, sweet fruit can be a delight for any meal. The many seeds in the Jackfruit are sensational when roasted, similar to a chestnut in flavor. Refrigerate Melissa’s Jackfruit. Choose Jackfruit with a strong fragrance and a deep yellow color.

Coconut Hearts are harvested before the meat is fully developed. At this stage, the water inside is at its prime, delicious, refreshing flavor. After you enjoy the coconut water you can cut the tender meat to make a perfect tropical snack. Coconuts are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals. Coconut nourishes the skin as well as boosts metabolism. Coconut water is rich in electrolytes and potassium, making it a much healthier alternative to sports drinks that contain artificial sugars or color.

Clarissa NagySince 2012 Clarissa Nagy has been the Winemaker at Santa Maria’s Riverbench Vineyard & Winery. Riverbench Vineyard was established in 1973 when its first Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes were planted on the property.

Clarissa also has her own label, c nagy, with a rustic tasting room in Orcutt. Her first release was in 2005. Clarissa uncorks it for us.

Situated on the southeastern edge of the Santa Maria Valley, the northernmost AVA in Santa Barbara County, the Riverbench vineyard currently consists of 107 acres of Pinot Noir and 77 acres of Chardonnay. In 2008, Riverbench committed themselves to a premium sparkling wine program.

Riverbench continues to work hard making wines that are inspired by Champagne in France. In 2015, they added the third great grape varietal famous in that area, Pinot Meunier, to the Riverbench vineyard. They anticipate incorporating these grapes into their sparkling wine blends beginning in 2017.

Clarissa fell in love with the aromas of Pinot Noir when she started working with wine in 1995. She received a Bachelor of Science in Food Science from California Polytechnic State University, and began her career as a Lab Technician at Edna Valley Vineyards. From there she moved through the roles of Research Assistant Winemaker at Byron Winery, Assistant Winemaker and Vineyard Supervisor at Longoria Winery, and winemaker for Bonaccorsi Wine Company since 2006.

Clarissa is known for her elegant and sophisticated winemaking style, and for her appreciation for fruit that comes from the Santa Maria Valley. She continues to refine Riverbench wines each vintage, and adds her own unique twists to their portfolio.

Anita Lau of Mad Hungry WomanOur Diary of a Mad Hungry Woman blogger, Anita Lau, has just returned from a visit to Melbourne and Victoria state in Australia. Among her finds is Bass & Flinders, a boutique gin distillery in Mornington Peninsula, Victoria.

Anita joins us with her spirited report.

“Founded in 2009 by Wayne Klintworth and Bob Laing, Bass & Flinders is an artisanal distillery, producing grape spirit using a traditional Alembic Pot Still to create a range of world‐class distillations including award winning gins, Australia’s first grape based Vodka, Limoncello, Grappa and an outstanding five-year aged spirit, Ochre.”

Stuart SkverskyIn 2009, Stuart Skversky, a Los Angeles rising star chef, gave up his life in Los Angeles and moved to Chiang Mai, Thailand to become a full time volunteer at the Wat Dan Chan (a local Buddhist temple), teaching local children English, cooking and baking.

Recognizing a need to help prepare these high risk Hill Tribe kids following their graduation, he founded Stu and the Kids to better prepare them for adulthood, helping them get into a university or technical college and giving them the tools for an independent future.

Stu and the Kids’ 2016 Los Angeles Fundraiser is at Vibiana on July 31st. Chef Stuart Skversky is our guest.

Proceeds from this event go directly to the children’s education, school uniforms, supplies, housing, food and tuition for higher education. Now in their eighth year of fundraising throughout the world, Stu and the Kids has raised over $165,000 for the charity, including last year’s record of $52,000 accumulated from the LA festival, fundraising on the east coast and online donations during 2015.

Participants for this year’s event include Hosts Neal and Amy Fraser, RedbirdAndy Ricker andThomas Boyce, Pok Pok LAEric Greenspan, MareBrooke Williamson and Nick Roberts, Playa ProvisionsAkasha Richmond, SambarDaniel Elkins and Erez Levy, Savore CateringRamon Reyes, The Ensaymada ProjectGilberto Cetina, Chicken ItzaWalter Manzke, RepubliqueWarren Schwartz and Rosa Schwartz, Magpie’s; Ted Hopson, The BellwetherGregg Wiele, Patina Restaurant GroupJames Tree and Carlos Enrique, Superba Food & BreadGary Menes, Le Comptoir; and Jason Neroni, Rose Café.

Podcasts

Segment One: Show Preview with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris and Chef Andrew Gruel
Segment Two: Chef Cara Mangini, Little Eater, The Vegetable Butcher
Segment Three: LA International Wine Competition
Segment Four: Robert Schueller, Prince of Produce, Melissa’s / World Variety Produce Part One
Segment Five: Robert Schueller, Prince of Produce, Melissa’s / World Variety Produce Part Two
Segment Six: Clarissa Nagy, Winemaker – Riverbench Vineyard & Winery, Santa Maria & Proprietress/Winemaker of c nagy
Segment Seven: Anita Lau, Diary of a Mad Hungry Woman blogger
Segment Eight: Chef Stuart Skversky, “Stu and The Kids”

Show 136, August 29, 2015: Tara Gomez, GM & Winemaker, Kita Wines

Tara GomezTara Gomez, the Winemaker and General Manager of Kita Wines in Santa Barbara County, is no stranger to the show. Kita, a small premium winery located in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley within the Santa Barbara County AVA, is unusually owned by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. It’s one of the few Indian-owned wineries that is actually managed by the owning Tribe. Tara is a Chumash Tribe member trained in enology at Cal State Fresno.

In 2010, The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians purchased Camp 4 Vineyard and Tara’s dream of giving back to her tribe became true when she was hired as Winemaker. Tara’s understanding of the site, soils and grapes allow her to shepherd the grapes with minimal input into elegant, balanced wines with lower alcohol content.

The word “Kita” means “Our Valley Oak” in the Santa Ynez Chumash native language of Samala.

At the recent Los Angeles International Wine Competition, Kita Wines were awarded 2 Gold Medals, 3 Silver Medals, and 2 Bronze medals. Pretty impressive for a tiny boutique winery with an annual case production of 2,500.

You can taste Kita’s Gold Medal wines at the Los Angeles County Fair in Pomona through September 27th. They are the Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Ynez Valley 2012 and the White Rhone Blend, T’aya, Santa Ynez Valley 2013.

Kita is already harvesting their wine grapes.

They do have a tasting room in Lompoc. It’s a small operation so by appointment only, please.