Tag Archives: Chardonnay

Show 474, May 14, 2022: Center of Effort Wines, Edna Valley AVA, CA Part One

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Nathan Carlson of Center of Effort

“The rising star of California’s central coast AVA is the Edna Valley, and in these foothills lies a landmark estate vineyard, its roots spanning four decades. Center of Effort is a crown jewel of this trending wine region, famed for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Edna Valley is notable for the state’s coolest wine conditions and long growing season, brought about by the breezes and morning fog from the Pacific Ocean. Center of Effort harnesses the area’s unique and valuable properties to produce wines that are well balanced and complex.”

“Center of Effort’s respect for the vineyard and its unique environment is reflected with emphasis on sustainable viticulture, natural fermentation and other non-invasive, progressive winemaking practices. The opening of their beautiful, state of the art hospitality center has enabled them to share the vineyard experience with style and comfort both indoors and out. Center of Effort’s estate wines represent the intersection of care taking, skill and commitment, and according to Forbes, “the results are pure and elegant expressions of Edna Valley terroir.””

“The winemaking operations at Center of Effort are led by Nathan Carlson, a veteran Edna Valley winemaker, who has worked with Center of Effort estate vineyards since 2008. His experience over this time with the soil, climate, and character of each parcel of the vines has led to a quiet confidence in the ultimate results of their winemaking actions or restraint.”

The striking and elegant Center of Effort Hospitality Center (with an exhibition kitchen) is available for a variety of tastings, tours and culinary experiences.

Winemaker & General Manager Nathan Carlson and Culinary Manager Lindsey Morin join us to pull the cork on all that is Center of Effort.

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Show 474, May 14, 2022: Center of Effort Wines, Edna Valley AVA, CA Part Two

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Lindsey Morin of Center of Effort

“The rising star of California’s central coast AVA is the Edna Valley, and in these foothills lies a landmark estate vineyard, its roots spanning four decades. Center of Effort is a crown jewel of this trending wine region, famed for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Edna Valley is notable for the state’s coolest wine conditions and long growing season, brought about by the breezes and morning fog from the Pacific Ocean. Center of Effort harnesses the area’s unique and valuable properties to produce wines that are well balanced and complex.”

“Center of Effort’s respect for the vineyard and its unique environment is reflected with emphasis on sustainable viticulture, natural fermentation and other non-invasive, progressive winemaking practices. The opening of their beautiful, state of the art hospitality center has enabled them to share the vineyard experience with style and comfort both indoors and out. Center of Effort’s estate wines represent the intersection of care taking, skill and commitment, and according to Forbes, “the results are pure and elegant expressions of Edna Valley terroir.””

“The winemaking operations at Center of Effort are led by Nathan Carlson, a veteran Edna Valley winemaker, who has worked with Center of Effort estate vineyards since 2008. His experience over this time with the soil, climate, and character of each parcel of the vines has led to a quiet confidence in the ultimate results of their winemaking actions or restraint.”

The striking and tastefully elegant Center of Effort Hospitality Center (with an exhibition kitchen) is available for a variety of tastings, tours and culinary experiences.

Winemaker & General Manager Nathan Carlson and Culinary Manager Lindsey Morin continue with us pulling the cork on all that is Center of Effort.

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Show 470, April 16, 2022: Samra Morris, Winemaker, Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards, Solvang, CA Part One

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Samra Morris of Alma Rosa Winery
https://almarosawinery.com/about/our-people/

“Alma Rosa Winery is situated on the north-facing slopes of the Santa Rosa Hills in Santa Barbara County. The wines are layered, vibrant and balanced, and they reflect the special terroir of the Sta.Rita Hills, which benefits from cool Pacific Ocean breezes funneled inland through the unique transverse mountain range of the region.”

“Alma Rosa wines — most produced in small batches of less than 400 cases — represent the best of the Sta. Rita Hills. Guests are invited to try their selection of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines, as well as some of their Rhone varietals, including Syrah and Grenache in their new Solvang Tasting Room.” There are also guest experiences available at the Alma Rosa Ranch.

“The Winery produces 5,000 hand-crafted cases per year focused on Estate and Single Vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from vineyards located on a four mile stretch along Santa Rosa Road. Sta. Rita Hills has a large reputation for extraordinary Pinot Noir yet this small area is 6 per cent the size of Napa Valley vineyards and 8 per cent the size of Paso Robles.”

“Founder and Winery Ambassador Richard Sanford planted the first Pinot Noir in the region in 1971. He provides invaluable experience in guiding Alma Rosa’s focus on excellence and balance in all Alma Rosa does. Winemaker Samra Morris (born and raised in Bosnia) brings sensitivity and technique inspired by great winemakers in California and Burgundy to wine growing and wine-making.” Samra had been the Assistant Winemaker at Alma Rosa and when the former Winemaker abruptly departed right before the 2019 harvest was promoted with confidence by Proprietors Bob and Barb Zorich and General Manager Debra Eagle.

Winemaker Samra Morris joins us to gently pull the cork on all that is Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards.

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Show 470, April 16, 2022: Samra Morris, Winemaker, Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards, Solvang, CA Part Two

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Samra Morris of Alma Rosa Winery
https://almarosawinery.com/about/our-people/

“Alma Rosa Winery is situated on the north-facing slopes of the Santa Rosa Hills in Santa Barbara County. The wines are layered, vibrant and balanced, and they reflect the special terroir of the Sta.Rita Hills, which benefits from cool Pacific Ocean breezes funneled inland through the unique transverse mountain range of the region.”

“Alma Rosa wines — most produced in small batches of less than 400 cases — represent the best of the Sta. Rita Hills. Guests are invited to try their selection of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines, as well as some of their Rhone varietals, including Syrah and Grenache in their new Solvang Tasting Room.” There are also guest experiences available at the Alma Rosa Ranch.

“The Winery produces 5,000 hand-crafted cases per year focused on Estate and Single Vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from vineyards located on a four mile stretch along Santa Rosa Road. Sta. Rita Hills has a large reputation for extraordinary Pinot Noir yet this small area is 6 per cent the size of Napa Valley vineyards and 8 per cent the size of Paso Robles.”

“Founder and Winery Ambassador Richard Sanford planted the first Pinot Noir in the region in 1971. He provides invaluable experience in guiding Alma Rosa’s focus on excellence and balance in all Alma Rosa does. Winemaker Samra Morris (born and raised in Bosnia) brings sensitivity and technique inspired by great winemakers in California and Burgundy to wine growing and wine-making.” Samra had been the Assistant Winemaker at Alma Rosa and when the former Winemaker abruptly departed right before the 2019 harvest was promoted with confidence by Proprietors Bob and Barb Zorich and General Manager Debra Eagle.

Winemaker Samra Morris continues with us pouring a glass of Alma Rosa Estate Pinot Noir, El Jabali Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills.

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Show 467, March 26, 2022: Piedra Creek Winery, San Luis Obispo Part One

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Margaret C Zuench and TJ de Jony of Piedra Creek Winery

“Piedra Creek Winery was conceived atop a small knoll in the heart of the MacGregor Vineyard overlooking the beautiful Edna Valley of San Luis Obispo, California.” It was founded in 1983 by the late Romeo Zuench and his wife, Margaret. Margaret continues as Owner with her grandson, T.J. de Jony as Winemaker / Proprietor. Before establishing Piedra Creek Winery as a retirement project Romeo was (for 30 years) an accomplished Aerospace Engineer for Rocketdyne International in Canoga Park.

“In 1984 Piedra Creek Winery became the smallest bonded winery in the Edna Valley, if not the state of California, originally producing only a couple hundred cases of estate sourced Chardonnay.”

“The ultra -small batch wines quickly gained notoriety. The grapes used would not come from a selected vineyard, nor from blocks within vineyards, but rather from only the best sections of the 55 -acre Chardonnay vineyard. The result: only the best fruit would be used to make the finest wines possible.”

“In 1999, San Floriano vineyard was planted and Piedra Creek Winery moved. Three clones of Pinot Noir, two clones of Chardonnay and two clones of Lagrein comprise the San Florian vineyard. The unique and meticulous practice of hand selecting only the highest quality fruit played a fundamental role in the formation of San Floriano vineyard.” Romeo was a pioneer in bringing Lagrein grapes (from Italy’s Trentino-Alto Adige region) to the USA.

Piedra Creek Winery hosts relaxed, intimate tastings on the patio in the middle of their estate vineyard Friday through Sunday, 12 Noon to 3 p.m. For the comfort of all guests advance reservations are a must.

Piedra Creek Winery’s Margaret Zuench and T.J. de Jony are our guests to uncork all that is Piedra Creek Winery.

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Show 467, March 26, 2022: Piedra Creek Winery, San Luis Obispo Part Two

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Margaret C Zuench and TJ de Jony of Piedra Creek Winery

“Piedra Creek Winery was conceived atop a small knoll in the heart of the MacGregor Vineyard overlooking the beautiful Edna Valley of San Luis Obispo, California.” It was founded in 1983 by the late Romeo Zuench and his wife, Margaret. Margaret continues as Owner with her grandson, T.J. de Jony as Winemaker / Proprietor. Before establishing Piedra Creek Winery as a retirement project Romeo was (for 30 years) an accomplished Aerospace Engineer for Rocketdyne International in Canoga Park.

“In 1984 Piedra Creek Winery became the smallest bonded winery in the Edna Valley, if not the state of California, originally producing only a couple hundred cases of estate sourced Chardonnay.”

“The ultra -small batch wines quickly gained notoriety. The grapes used would not come from a selected vineyard, nor from blocks within vineyards, but rather from only the best sections of the 55 -acre Chardonnay vineyard. The result: only the best fruit would be used to make the finest wines possible.”

“In 1999, San Floriano vineyard was planted and Piedra Creek Winery moved. Three clones of Pinot Noir, two clones of Chardonnay and two clones of Lagrein comprise the San Florian vineyard. The unique and meticulous practice of hand selecting only the highest quality fruit played a fundamental role in the formation of San Floriano vineyard.” Romeo was a pioneer in bringing Lagrein grapes (from Italy’s Trentino-Alto Adige region) to the USA.

“It has been said that it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to make great wine…but it certainly doesn’t hurt.”

Piedra Creek Winery hosts intimate tastings on the patio in the middle of their estate vineyard Friday through Sunday, 12 Noon to 3 p.m. For the comfort of all guests advance reservations are a must.

Piedra Creek Winery’s Margaret Zuench and T.J. de Jony continue as our guests to uncork all that is Piedra Creek Winery.

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Show 466, March 19, 2022: Vintner Brian Talley, President, Talley Vineyards and Talley Farms, Arroyo Grande, CA Part One

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Brian Talley of Talley Vineyards

“Talley Vineyards (cool climate wines from the SLO Coast) Owner & Vintner Brian Talley is a third-generation farmer and second-generation winegrower born and raised in Arroyo Grande. While attending UC Berkeley, where he earned degrees in History and Natural Resource Economics, he worked in a wine shop called Curds and Whey where he fell in love with wine.”

“Brian began his career in the family business at age 12 when he started harvesting vegetables at Talley Farms. He became General Manager of Talley Vineyards in 1991 and now serves as President of Talley Vineyards and Talley Farms. Brian is recognized as a leader in the local wine industry and was cofounder of the World of Pinot Noir, has served as President of the San Luis Obispo Coast Wine Collective and been recognized by both Robert Parker and the local wine industry as a Wine Industry Person of the Year. Most recently he was a leader in the effort to establish the recently approved San Luis Obispo Coast AVA and wrote a farm to table cookbook, Our California Table, Celebrating the Seasons with the Talley Family.”

“Brian loves cooking, wine and travel as well as hiking and golf. He lives at the edge of Talley Farms with his wife Johnine. Brian Talley is our guest to uncork all that is Talley Vineyards.”

Talley Vineyards is known for their Estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. “The Tally Pinot Noirs are Burgundian style with California influence: approachable minerality, delicate fruit, and refreshing energy.” Their Chardonnays are a fresh take on California Chardonnay with citrus, stone fruit, and vivacity shining through in aromas and flavors.”

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Show 466, March 19, 2022: Vintner Brian Talley, President, Talley Vineyards and Talley Farms, Arroyo Grande, CA Part Two

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Brian Talley of Talley Vineyards

“Talley Vineyards (cool climate wines from the SLO Coast) Owner & Vintner Brian Talley is a third-generation farmer and second-generation winegrower born and raised in Arroyo Grande. While attending UC Berkeley, where he earned degrees in History and Natural Resource Economics, he worked in a wine shop called Curds and Whey where he fell in love with wine.”

“Brian began his career in the family business at age 12 when he started harvesting vegetables at Talley Farms. He became General Manager of Talley Vineyards in 1991 and now serves as President of Talley Vineyards and Talley Farms. Brian is recognized as a leader in the local wine industry and was cofounder of the World of Pinot Noir, has served as President of the San Luis Obispo Coast Wine Collective and been recognized by both Robert Parker and the local wine industry as a Wine Industry Person of the Year. Most recently he was a leader in the effort to establish the recently approved San Luis Obispo Coast AVA and wrote a farm to table cookbook, Our California Table, Celebrating the Seasons with the Talley Family.”

“Brian loves cooking, wine and travel as well as hiking and golf.  He lives at the edge of Talley Farms with his wife Johnine.”  Brian Talley (with a glass of Stone Corral Pinot Noir in hand) continues as our guest to uncork all that is Talley Vineyards.

Talley Vineyards is known for their Estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. “The Tally Pinot Noirs are Burgundian style with California influence: approachable minerality, delicate fruit, and refreshing energy.” Their Chardonnays are a fresh take on California Chardonnay with citrus, stone fruit, and vivacity shining through in aromas and flavors.”

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Show 458, January 15, 2022: Lindsay Hoopes, Proprietress, Hoopes Family Vineyard, Oakville, Napa Valley Part One

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Lindsay Hoopes of Hoopes Wines

“Hoopes Family Vineyard & Winery (Oakville) is a small, family-owned winegrower and producer with deep roots in Napa Valley. Now in it’s second generation, Lindsay Hoopes continues to live and work on the farm with revered dedication to her family heritage in dogged pursuit of perfect wines. Their critically acclaimed wines tell the exquisite story of the Hoopes’ vineyards, their philosophy, and the continued evolution of Napa Valley. With a true sense of place and raison d’être, Hoopes Vineyard wines strive to over deliver in flavor, history, passion, adventure and luxury.”

“Raised on the Hoopes farm by her wine-loving family, Lindsay Hoopes learned how to cultivate grapes and promote Napa’s sense of place and terroir through her father, Spencer Hoopes. Spencer Hoopes loved farming, and developed a passion for wine as the wine industry in Napa blossomed right around him.”

“Spencer Hoopes grew grapes for other vintners and quickly earned repute for some of the best cabernet sauvignon in the Napa Valley. Spencer’s stewardship of the land was heralded by many. When other vintners asked if they could use the Hoopes name to authenticate the high-calibre of their wine, Spencer concluded that, darn it, he should do it himself.”

“Enter Lindsay. Spencer encouraged Lindsay to explore the world and potentially other careers before making a decision to settle at home in the family business. Farming suffers no fools, and Spencer wasn’t just going to give her a job.”

“Lindsay has a wanderlust. After living abroad in many countries, from Ireland to Costa Rica, Lindsay studied international law, worked in international logistics and ultimately worked in homicide at the San Francisco District Attorney’s office. But Lindsay eventually made her way back to Napa Valley when a family illness prompted her to take over Hoopes Vineyard in 2012.”

“Lindsay honored her heritage and father’s winemaking philosophy, but retained her sense of adventure by giving Hoopes Family Vineyard some innovative upgrades. She adopted regenerative agricultural practices and bio-diverse farming initiatives, founded a rescue sanctuary for animals, worked with environmental groups for organic and sustainability certification, and created a hub for young wine fans to immerse themselves in California wine culture in what is now the Oasis by Hoopes. Lindsay also now tells the story of Hoopes wine through food in her many culinary partnerships and initiatives.” Hoopes Family Vineyard also hosts a variety intriguing Virtual Events.

The Hoopes Family Vineyard produces small lots of meritorious Cabernet Sauvignon in various expressions, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Rose and Syrah.

Proprietress Lindsay Hoopes is our guest to pull the cork on Hoopes Family Vineyard & Winery.

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Show 458, January 15, 2022: Lindsay Hoopes, Proprietress, Hoopes Family Vineyard, Oakville, Napa Valley Part Two

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Lindsay Hoopes of Hoopes Wines

“Hoopes Family Vineyard & Winery (Oakville) is a small, family-owned winegrower and producer with deep roots in Napa Valley. Now in it’s second generation, Lindsay Hoopes continues to live and work on the farm with revered dedication to her family heritage in dogged pursuit of perfect wines. Their critically acclaimed wines tell the exquisite story of the Hoopes’ vineyards, their philosophy, and the continued evolution of Napa Valley. With a true sense of place and raison d’être, Hoopes Vineyard wines strive to over deliver in flavor, history, passion, adventure and luxury.”

“Raised on the Hoopes farm by her wine-loving family, Lindsay Hoopes learned how to cultivate grapes and promote Napa’s sense of place and terroir through her father, Spencer Hoopes. Spencer Hoopes loved farming, and developed a passion for wine as the wine industry in Napa blossomed right around him.”

“Spencer Hoopes grew grapes for other vintners and quickly earned repute for some of the best cabernet sauvignon in the Napa Valley. Spencer’s stewardship of the land was heralded by many. When other vintners asked if they could use the Hoopes name to authenticate the high-calibre of their wine, Spencer concluded that, darn it, he should do it himself.”

“Enter Lindsay. Spencer encouraged Lindsay to explore the world and potentially other careers before making a decision to settle at home in the family business. Farming suffers no fools, and Spencer wasn’t just going to give her a job.”

“Lindsay has a wanderlust. After living abroad in many countries, from Ireland to Costa Rica, Lindsay studied international law, worked in international logistics and ultimately worked in homicide at the San Francisco District Attorney’s office. But Lindsay eventually made her way back to Napa Valley when a family illness prompted her to take over Hoopes Vineyard in 2012.”

“Lindsay honored her heritage and father’s winemaking philosophy, but retained her sense of adventure by giving Hoopes Family Vineyard some innovative upgrades. She adopted regenerative agricultural practices and bio-diverse farming initiatives, founded a rescue sanctuary for animals, worked with environmental groups for organic and sustainability certification, and created a hub for young wine fans to immerse themselves in California wine culture in what is now the Oasis by Hoopes. Lindsay also now tells the story of Hoopes wine through food in her many culinary partnerships and initiatives.” Hoopes Family Vineyard also hosts a variety intriguing Virtual Events.

The Hoopes Family Vineyard produces small lots of meritorious Cabernet Sauvignon in various expressions, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Rose and Syrah.

Proprietress Lindsay Hoopes continues with us gently pulling the cork on the activities of Hoopes Family Vineyard & Winery.

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