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Sips of the Week

The Domaine Sigalas Assirtiko/Athiri blend is the perfect seafood wine!

Ted Diamantis  is one of the world’s leading importers of Greek wines. He founded Diamond Wine Importers in 1992 with the belief that Greece, with its natural terrior of mountain vineyards, maritime influenced climate, volcanic and alluvial soils, and over 200 ancient indigenous varieties, can once again become a source of some of the greatest wines in the world. Over the last 20 years of tasting and traveling throughout Greece, he has compiled a portfolio of the best artisan, vineyard-driven producers who are working with the best native varietals from the best appellations. He has the goal is to now educate and enlighten the American wine market about these indigenous varietals, ancient appellations and, most importantly, the spirit of these outstanding producers.

Domaine Sigalas Assirtiko/Athiri Santorini 2011  $16.99 (White)

Varietal Composition: Assyrtiko 75%, Athiri 25% Vinification techniques: Fermentation in stainless steel tanks under controlled temperature.  Organoleptic characteristics: Colour straw blonde, bright, with a nose of ripe citrus fruit. With refreshing acidity and a delightful after-taste.  Ageing potential: Minimum of 3 years.

Domaine Skouras St. George Nemea 2010 $14.99 (Red)

100% Aghiorghitiko, The color is bright, deep crimson. The nose reveals aromas of blackberries, black raspberries and ripe strawberries with just a touch of anise and spices such as clove and cinnamon. It is a medium bodied wine with graceful texture, balanced acidity and very ripe elegant tannins. The finish is moderately long, full of red fruits with a touch of sweet vanilla and black pepper.

All thesips of the week are available at Wells Discount Liquors check them out at WellsWine.com

Wine Sandwich

Sam Zien, The Cooking Guy joined us to talk about some great grilling recipes from his book Just Grill This! that are perfect for Mother’s Day or any day. Sam quit a biotech job in July of 2001 to try to start a travel show, with him as the host.  The fact that he had zero travel or television experience didn’t seem to matter to him.  He felt he could be at least as good as the not-so-exciting people on TV – and maybe even better.  His 30-minute show appropriately named Sam the Cooking Guy – an irreverent mix of humor and easy-to-replicate recipes that have now won 11 Emmy awards.  It’s ‘reality’ cooking – in the sense that whatever really happens when he shoots, stays in the show.  A dropped pan, dogs getting in the way, a burnt lip from a too hot mouthful or even something he made that ended up tasting bad – it all stays.  In 2007 Discovery Health came along and ‘Just Cook This! with Sam the Cooking Guy’ was born.  It features his same offbeat style with more easy-to-prepare, great-tasting recipes that also happen to be healthy.  It’s true – healthy doesn’t have to taste awful. Still known for his ‘big in taste and small in effort’ philosophy, Sam has become a frequent guest on The Today Show, his first cookbook ‘Just a Bunch of Recipes’ was released in 2008 by John Wiley & Sons and his second book ‘Awesome Recipes & Kitchen Shortcuts’ was released in April of 2010.  His 3^rd book Just Grill This! released in February of 2011.

Upcoming Events

6/8: Save the Date - Robert Mondavi Winery Dinner to celebrate Heritage month at Westin Annapolis

Next Week

We’ll talk to all about the delicious white wines of Chile along with some great recipes that will pair perfectly!

Special thanks to Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Wells Discount Liquors, Crystal Cruise Lines, Santa Rita Winery, The Cavit Collection and J Brown Jewelers.

Great infographic from my friends at FrugalDad.com…enjoy!

Source: FrugalDad.com

Genevieve Janssens, winemaker at Robert Mondavi WInery, joined us for a chat about her fabulous wines!

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Sips of the Week

Genevieve Janssens, winemaker at Robert Mondavi Winery, joined us on air to talk about her winemaking philosophy, stories from the vineyard and why her wines consistently receive such high marks from critics and wine lovers alike.

Robert Mondavi Winery Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2009:  True to the varietal and the region, this powerful, concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon opens with aromas of juicy black cherries and Italian plums, seamlessly transitioning to flavors of ripe dark fruit. Its rich, fleshy texture, lengthy finish, and impeccable balance impart a regal maturity to this wine that belies its true age. Retails $30

Robert Mondavi Winery Napa Valley Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2008:  Dark blueberry and cherry aromas combine with a hint of black olive and sage to form the aromatic base of the wine. The new French oak imparts flavors of roasted coffee and dark chocolate. Fine, ripe tannins provide structure and flow to the complex, elegant finish. Retails $135

June is Mondavi Heritage Month…Watch this video to find out why Robert Mondavi has been so important to the American wine industry.

Wine Sandwich

Greg Nivens owner of Trigger Agency, joined us to talk about the upcoming Wine & Food Festival at National Harbor on May 5 and 6th. He shared with us some of the celebrity chef and must see sminars that will be taking place during the festival. Laurie also shared information about her FREE wine class “Wine by the Numbers” here students will take place Saturday at 3:30PM.

Upcoming Events

5/5-5/6 : National Harbor Food & Wine Festival Laurie is leading a seminar called Wine by the Numbers where you’ll learn how to rate wine like a pro!

6/8: Save the Date - Robert Mondavi Winery Dinner to celebrate Heritage month at Westin Annapolis

Next Week

Show will not be aired due to Orioles game…tune back in on 5/12!

Special thanks to Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Wells Discount Liquors, Crystal Cruise Lines, Santa Rita Winery, The Cavit Collection and J Brown Jewelers.

Download Laurie’s new APP for your iPhone/iPad or Android

Sips of the Week

Vincenzo Abbruzzese, owner of Valdicava Winery in Tuscany, joined us to talk about his amazing Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino. Vincenzo is passoniate about his wines having the spirit of the soil. His family has been instrumental in the establishment of Brunello di Montalcino as one of the world’s greatest wines and his wines are highly regard by critics and wine makers alike.

1.  Valdicava Rosso 2009 – “Baby Brunello” can be released after 1 year old (6 months in oak).

“A fruity and firm red, with berry and dried strawberry character, medium body and firm tannins. Well-structured Rosso di Montalcino. Drink now. “  90 Points, James Suckling

 2.  Valdicava Brunello 2006 – must be aged for 4 years (2 years in oak).

“The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino flows with gorgeous layers of dark red fruit. This is one of the more muscular, virile wines of the vintage. Slow to reveal its character, the Valdicava Brunello will require significant patience, but I have seen the wine blossom beautifully, even in the smallest of vintages. A blast of iron, smoke, tar, licorice and new leather inform the deep, intense finish. This is a hugely promising, brilliant Brunello from proprietor Vincenzo Abbruzzese, but it needs to be buried in the cellar for at least a few years. Readers who can’t wait should open the wine a few hours in advance, which will allow the fruit to emerge. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2031.”  95+ points, The Wine Advocate

Wine Sandwich

Cyndy Bragg, The Whoopie Queen joined us with her magical Mint Strawberry Shortcake Whoopie Pies.  Strawberries are often referenced as the fruit of passion…it’s all those seeds! Strawberries contain more vitamin C than any other berry with a good amount of potassium as well as essential vitamins and minerals needed to keep the fires burning.

We also discussed our Makin Whoopie Comedy Show: Comedy about wine and ‘you know what’ with shows at 7:30 & 9:30 PM at The NightCat in Easton, MD. Tickets are only $20. 

Show sponsors include The Inn at 202 Dover, Hair o’The Dog Wine & Spirits, Beautiful Discovery Salon and Barbara Stanny – Authority on Women’s Wealth and Abundance. Join us for a night of unbridled hilarity!

Upcoming Events

4/27: Join me for the Willamette Valley Vineyards Wine Dinner at The Inn at 202 Dover. 5 courses $100 per person, for reservations call (866) 450-7600.

 5/5 : National Harbor Food & Wine Festival Laurie is leading a seminar called Wine by the Numbers where you’ll learn how to rate wine like a pro!

Next Week

Next Week we’ll talk to Genvieve Janssens, award winning winemaker at Robert Mondavi Winery and Greg Nivens from the Food & Wine Festival at National Harbor.

Special thanks to Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Wells Discount Liquors, Crystal Cruise Lines, Santa Rita Winery, The Cavit Collection and J Brown Jewelers.

Ms. Bragg and Ms. Forster are amateur comediennes and recently graduated from Five Minutes to Funny class at the DC Improv where they both took their everyday experiences and turned them into comedy routines to express themselves in a new way. The rest of the cast is rounded out by comics Tracey Allred, Jessica Trimble, Kathy Juda and Jen Tisdale. The show is sponsored by Hair o’The Dog Wine & Spirits, Peacock Restaurant & Lounge and Beautiful Discovery Salon in Easton as well as nationally recognized financial coach Barbara Stanny.

By day, Cyndy Bragg is a stay-at-home mom who bakes whoopee pies and by night, she takes to the stage to perform at various locations in and around NY, Baltimore and Washington DC. Having worked as a producer on short film projects with some famous and funny people, she always had a love of comedy and a desire to perform.  So, when she moved to suburbia with her husband and two small children, she turned everyday events into something to laugh about. She wanted to share this love of fun and frolic with other women which is what inspired her to found the Makin’ Whoopie comedy shows.

“ Trust me, I really enjoy baking and I really enjoy my family, but a hectic schedule filled with running to the store, changing diapers and making sure the house is still in one piece can be daunting. I like making people laugh and quite frankly, it reduces my blood pressure so it’s a win-win  ,” said Ms. Bragg, sarcastically.

Laurie Forster, a professional wine educator, author and radio show host, originally took comedy classes as a way in which to formulate a fresh approach to her seminars and programs.  She brings her wit, charm and sharp sense of humor to the stage as she discusses being married to a professional chef and the challenges of balancing a career, a young daughter, and her “wifely duties.”

“Working and having a family in these times can be stressful.  My husband and I are constantly juggling many things and sometimes the only way to get through the day is laughter.  Ok wine first and THEN laughter,” said Laurie Forster, The Wine Coach.

Tickets to the show are expected to sell out. Purchase your tickets here: http://bit.ly/twc-comedy

Download Laurie’s new APP for your iPhone/iPad or Android

Sips of the Week

Celeste Corsaro & Joe DiPasquale, joined us with some homemade wines to talk all about the upcoming Highlandtown Wine Festival set to take place on 4/22 from 1-6 PM at Our Lady of Pompei Convent Garden (3600 Claremont St.). Now in its 9th year, the festival in southeast Baltimore brings morethan a thousand visitors to partake in homemade wine, eat fine Italian food,listen to live music and have fun. Admission to the festival includes five complementary tastings of homemade wine and wine glass. 

In addition to the complementary antipasti, DiPasquale’s Italian Market will have meatball subs, sausage and peppers, pasta, cannolis, and their specialty arancine – as seen on the Food Network – available for sale.  Those 21 and over may purchase tickets for $25($20 in advance); children and teens can enter free in the company of anadult.   For more information, call410-534-2212 or visit www.highlandtown.com 

Home wine makers can enter their wines in the Wine Competition until 4/19. Registrations forms are available online here. Good Luck!

Wine Sandwich

Joe Di Pasquale of Di Pasquale’s Marketplace, brought an amazing spread of Italian delicacies for us to taste with the delicious homemade wines. He brought his famous Arancine (rice balls) that were featured on the Food Network, some amazing sandwiches and more. These foods will be available at the Highlandtown Wine Festival or by visiting Di Pasquales’s Marketplace.

Upcoming Events

4/27: Join me for the Willamette Valley Vineyards Wine Dinner at The Inn at 202 Dover. 5 courses $100 per person, for reservations call (866) 450-7600.

4/28: Makin Whoopie Comedy Show: Comedy about wine and ‘you know what’. 7:30 & 9:30 PM at The NightCat in Easton, MD. Tickets are $20.

4/28-29: St Michaels WineFest A fabulous weekend of wine, food and fun in St. Michaels, MD.

Next Week

Next Week we’ll talk to the winemaker from Valdicava in Tuscany and to Cyndy Bragg of the Whoopie Queen about her delicious Whoopie Pies and our upcoming all-female comedy show.

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, The Cavit Collection, J Brown Jewelers and Santa Rita Winery.

Download Laurie’s new APP for your iPhone/iPad or Android

Sips of the Week

Richard and MaryBeth Seibert, Owners of Knob Hall Winery joined us to talk about their estate grown wines from MD. One of which recently won a gold medal at the International Eastern Wine Competition held in Santa Rosa, CA.

Dry Rose $12.99: Knob Hall’s 2009 Rosé is a crisp dry wine with a refreshing finish Made from Chambourcin, this is a dry style of Rosé…perfect for a picnic, sandwiches and pizza. A great example of a Rosé you would get on the Right Bank.

Chambourcin $23.99: A fruity yet full-bodied red wine that is ready to drink now or can be put down for several years. Chambourcin has great color and aromas and goes well with pork, lamb and pizza.

Le Reve Rouge $price: Light bodied with soft tannins red blend wine.  Flowery and fruity notes on the nose. Fruity raspberry flavors. Matches with everything from popcorn to ribs to burgers. Won the Gold Medal at the 36th Annual International Eastern Wine Competition (IEWC) , Santa Rosa, CA early March judging.

All “The Sips of the Week” are available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore check them out at www.WellsWine.com

Wine Sandwich

Joe Roberts,  author of 1WineDude.com, joins Laurie to talk about a new PSU Study by John Hayes that says wine pros taste differently than everyday wine lovers. Joe Roberts is a certified wine geek and has been called “an original” by media maven Gary Vaynerchuk, “provocative” by the Seattle Times and “a Robin Hood in the exclusive world of vineyards and corkings” by The Urban Grocer. You may find Joe regularly roasting wine’s sacred cow (and pairing them with a robust, obscure red) at the award-winning 1WineDude.com.

Upcoming Events

4/27: Join me for the Willamette Valley Vineyards Wine Dinner at The Inn at 202 Dover.  5 courses $100 per person, for reservations call (866) 450-7600.

4/28: Makin Whoopie Comedy Show: Comedy about wine and ‘you know what’.  7:30 & 9:30 PM at The NightCat in Easton, MD. Tickets are $20.

4/28-29: St Michaels WineFest A fabulous weekend of wine, food and fun in St. Michaels, MD.

To get info from today’s show go to TheWineCoach.com or get my Free Wine App is for iPhone/iPad and Android…visit www.thewinecoach.com/app

Next Week

Next Week we’ll talk to the organizers of the Highlandtown Wine Festival where home winemakers will compete for the Gold. At the festival on April 22 they will offer tastings of their wine along with delicious food vendors during the festival.

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, The Cavit Collection, J Brown Jewelers and Santa Rita Winery.

Download Laurie’s new APP for your iPhone/iPad or Android

Sips of the Week

Angela Richter, Beer Educator from World of Beer joined us to talk about some great brews for spring.

1.      Weihenstephaner Krystalweizen (Germany)   Weihenstephaner is the oldest brewery in the world. A filtered version of a Hefeweizen, showcasing bright and clear bodies from pale straw to light amber. Overall character will be more clean and softer on the palate, and the common banana and phenols will be more subtle.

2.      Brewer’s Art Resurrection Ale (MD) During the fermentation of the first batch of this Abbey-style ale, the yeast «died» and was «resurrected» by brewer Chris Cashell. Made with five types of barley malt and lots of sugar, this beer is quite flavorful, without being too sweet. 7%abv

3.      Hop Stoopid Ale (CA) For those mornings when you have to cut right to the chase, this is the one. Sure to blast through just about anything still lingering from the night before, this mouthful of Hops and huge rich Malt has a guarantee built right into the name! ABV: 8%

All “The Sips of the Week” are available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore check them out at www.WellsWine.com

Wine Sandwich

Dave Newman, Executive Chef of The Brewers Art joined us to shed some light on the secrets of beer and food training. He trained in San Francisco with Chef Annie Gingrass at Hawthorne Lane, Chef Nancy Oakes at Boulevard and Chef Michael Mina at Aqua. In 2005 he moved to Baltimore, where he worked as the Chef de Cuisine at Timothy Dean Bistro, Saffron and Ixia before joining The Brewers Art. He has appeared numerous times in the local media, including WJZ and the Baltimore Magazine. He is the two-time winner of B&O’s annual crab bash.

Upcoming Events

 4/27: Join Laurie for the Willamette Valley Vineyards Wine Dinner at The  Inn at 202 Dover 5 courses $100 per person, call (866) 450-7600.

  4/28: Makin Whoopie Comedy Show: Comedy about wine and you know what. 7:30 PM at Nin Easton, MD. Tickets are $20.

 4/28: St Michaels WineFest A fabulous weekend of wine, food and fun in St. Michaels, MD.

To get info from today’s show go to thewinecoach.com or get my Free Wine App is for  iPhone/iPad and Android…visit www.thewinecoach.com/app

Next Week

Next Week we’ll talk to winemaker Mary Beth Seibert of Knob Hall Winery Wins Gold Medal at International Wine Competition. Wine blogger Joe Roberts of One Wine Dude will also join us to talk about how wine critics taste differently than every day wine lovers and what that means for you!

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, The Cavit Collection, J Brown Jewelers and Santa Rita Winery.

Download Laurie’s new APP for your iPhone/iPad or Android

Sips of the Week

Paul LaRochelle, General Manager of Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis joined us to taste some outstanding Cabernets and update us on the new Lexus GS and other exciting happenings for Lexus. Lexus is a sponsor of the 30th Annual Food & Wine Classic and has other special benefits for the wine loving owners.

1.      Oberon Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Napa Valley, California $19.99

Winemaker’s notes: With beautifully married flavors and tannins, our Oberon Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon has a lovely, seamless texture. Malolactic fermentation in barrel, combined with 18 months oak aging, further concentrated the wine’s vibrant red cherry, candied blackberry, licorice and spice flavors, adding a hint of cocoa powder and a lingering toffee note on the finish.

Critical acclaim:

“This release represents a gigantic leap forward for Oberon in their basic Cabernet Sauvignon. Past releases have been so-so. This one’s terrific. Blended from vineyards all over the valley, it shows all the hallmarks of a Napa Cab you want. It’s dry, full-bodied and impressively ripe in blackberries, currants, licorice and oak, with a long, smooth finish.  Editors’ Choice.” 91 Points Wine Enthusiast

2.  Foxglove Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Paso Robles, California $17.99

Winemaker’s notes: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, 100% Paso Robles Blends red and black fruit with pepper, cedar and bittersweet chocolate. Nice tannin backbone and and good length. Bordeaux character mingling with Paso Robles fuit.   No stems, no whole clusters at crusher. Pressed at dryness, malo-lactic completed after pressing.

Critical acclaim:

The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon is a huge, unoaked wine bursting with dark red fruit, sweet flower, spices, leather and licorice. The Cabernet Sauvignon saw no oak at all; the richness comes just from the intensity of the fruit. This is one of the very finest wines being made from Paso Robles fruit, and I say that after having tasted over 500 wines from Paso recently. Frankly, it puts most of what is being made in Paso in this price point to shame. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2016. Score: 89. —Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate August 2011.

All “The Sips of the Week” are available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore check them out at www.WellsWine.com

Wine Sandwich

Ray Isle, Wine Editor Food & Wine Magazine joined us to talk about all the delicious events and happenings at the 30th Annual Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, June 15-17, 2012. Ray Isle is the executive wine editor of FOOD & WINE, where he oversees FOOD & WINE’s wine department, writes the magazine’s monthly wine column, Tasting Room, and directs the title’s spirits coverage. Ray regularly conducts wine-tasting seminars at epicurean events and appears as a wine and spirits expert on national television shows, including NBC’s Today and CBS’s The Early Show.

Upcoming Events

Meet me at Wells Discount Liquors on Monday, March 26 from 4-8 PM for thier Big Semi-Annual Sale…I’ll be tasting wine, helping you shop and signing books!

Talbot Restaurant Week  runs from March 25-March 31, 2012.  Lunch $20.12, Dinner $30.12 The finale is a Black and White Ball on 3/31 for more info or to buy tickets visit www.talbotdining.com

 Wine and Dine with Laurie & Michael:

In partnership with Crystal Cruises and French Wine Explorers, Michael and I will be hosting a group during the Romancing the Riviera Cruise July 25-August 6, 2012 on board the breathtaking Crystal Serenity. We’ll sail our way from Lisbon to Rome with stops in Lisbon, Gibraltar, Barcelona Palomos, Cannes, Monte Carlo, Florence and Rome. Along the way we’ll have exclusive activities for our group that center on our shared love of food and wine. Crystal Cruises is now an all inclusive cruise ship which means your fare includes everything–food, wine, cabin and YES, wine and alcohol are included!! Learn more by clicking here

Next Week

Next Week’s theme is all about great beers for Spring… Angela Richter from The World of Beer will share some of her favorite spring beers and Chef Dave Newman of Brewer’s Art will tell us how to create inspired beer pairings to kick off the season!

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, The Cavit Collection, J Brown Jewelers and Santa Rita Winery.

Download Laurie’s new APP for your iPhone/iPad or Android

Sips of the Week

Doug Atwell, Managing partner, RYE Bar.  Rye whiskey was the preeminent distilled spirit in Maryland before Prohibition. It was nationally known and revered as the cornerstone for such classic cocktails as the Manhattan and the Old Fashioned. Our state’s proud history of rye, once the great drink of Maryland, is worthy of remembrance and celebration.

Cocktails:  Traditional Manhattan

 All “The Sips of the Week” are available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore check them out at www.WellsWine.com

Wine Sandwich

Judy Gelman, co-author of the Unofficial Mad Men Cookbook joined us with some great ideas on how to create a Mad Men Premiere party. Judy Gelman is also the co-author of The Book Club Cookbook: Recipes and Food for Thought from Your Book Club’s Favorite Books and Authors (Penguin, 2004), the first cookbook designed for book discussion groups. Check her out at bookclubcookbook.com and kidsbookclubbook.com.

Wine and Dine with Laurie & Michael:

In partnership with Crystal Cruises and French Wine Explorers, Michael and I will be hosting a group during the Romancing the Riviera Cruise July 25-August 6, 2012 on board the breathtaking Crystal Serenity. We’ll sail our way from Lisbon to Rome with stops in Lisbon, Gibraltar, Barcelona Palomos, Cannes, Monte Carlo, Florence and Rome. Along the way we’ll have exclusive activities for our group that center on our shared love of food and wine. Crystal Cruises is now an all inclusive cruise ship which means your fare includes everything–food, wine, cabin and YES, wine and alcohol are included!! Learn more by clicking here

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, The Cavit Collection, J Brown Jewelers and Santa Rita Winery.

Download Laurie’s new APP for your iPhone/iPad or Android

Sips of the Week

Pacale Bernasse, Owner French Wine Explorers, joined us for to taste some great French wines and tips for wine lovers make when booking a wine vacation. Pascale Bernasse has been named one of the Top 133 Travel Specialists in the world by Condé Nast Traveler. French Wine Explorers offers guests not just vacations, but authentic luxury experiences in France’s famed wine regions.

1.  Hubert Brochard Sancerre 2010, Loire Valley, France, $27.99

Winemaker’s Notes:

VINEYARD: Our vineyard of Sancerre Blanc is very  parcelled out. It is located on the best hills of the villages of Chavignol, Sainte Gemme, Ménétréol, Amigny, Thauvenay and Sancerre.

GRAPE VARIETIES: 100 % Sauvignon from vines that are 30 years old on average.

SOIL: Depending on the hillsides: 40 % limestone, 30 % flint, 30 % clay.

The Sancerre Blanc is a winethat can be kept for roughly 5 years. It is dry, fruity, and

best enjoyed chilled.

SERVE WITH: It is ideal with seafood, fish in sauces, and with certain cheeses, especially the Crottin

de Chavignol goat’s cheese.

2.  Domaine Du Bois de Saint-Jean Cotes Du Rhone Red, Rhone Valley, France  $12.99  

Winemaker’s Notes:

Grape variety: 50 % Grenache, 30% Syrah, 15% Mourvèdre, 5% Carignan
Wine-making: Clusters are taken off; vines are put in thermo-regulated vats and processed separately. There is constant control of temperature, and vats are daily emptied and refilled. Then they are put together. Wine production is lasting a year, and then wine is being bottled.
Wine is being bottled at the domain.

Tasting: Colour is deep dark red. Flavours are made of ripe fruits and a spicy hint.
Tannins are present and blended. With its fruity texture, this Côtes du Rhône can be served immediately without preservation. This wine can be served with red or white meat, simply elaborated dishes and cheese…

All “The Sips of the Week” are of course available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore check them out at www.WellsWine.com

Wine Sandwich

Breeze Restaurant’s Executive Chef Olivier Senoussaoui joined us to talk about food and wine Pairing Tips and his role at the 2012 Annapolis Food & Wine Festival.

Executive Chef Olivier Senoussaoui developed his passion for food at a very early age. He attended the Chamber of Commerce Culinary School in France when he was just 15, and he earned degrees in both culinary and pastry. Chef Olivier has been Executive Chef at Loews Annapolis Hotel since 2008, where he oversees BREEZE Restaurant, banquets and in-room dining. He has earned recognition by What’s Up! Annapolis Magazine as Best Chef in the Annapolis dining scene.

Wine and Dine with Laurie & Michael:

In partnership with Crystal Cruises and French Wine Explorers, Michael and I will be hosting a group during the Romancing the Riviera Cruise July 25-August 6, 2012 on board the breathtaking Crystal Serenity. We’ll sail our way from Lisbon to Rome with stops in Lisbon, Gibraltar, Barcelona Palomos, Cannes, Monte Carlo, Florence and Rome. Along the way we’ll have exclusive activities for our group that center on our shared love of food and wine. Crystal Cruises is now an all inclusive cruise ship which means your fare includes everything–food, wine, cabin and YES, wine and alcohol are included!! Learn more by clicking here

Tune in next week:

The premiere of Mad Men season 5 is in  just a few weeks so next week is our Mad Men episode! Doug Atwell of Rye Bar in Fells Point will join us to mix up some cocktails form the Mad Men era and Judy Gelman author of The Unofficial Mad Men Cookbook will tell us how to cook like Mad Men too.

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, The Cavit Collection, J Brown Jewelers and Santa Rita Winery.

Download Laurie’s new APP for your iPhone/iPad or Android!!

Sips of the Week

Gus Kalaris founder of Axios Wines joined us for the Sips of the Week and we tasted three of his fabulous wines!

Winemaker’s Notes: Introducing the newest wine in the lineup from Axios Wines.  Ruby red in color with brilliant clarity. Perfectly balanced with intriguing softly scented aromas of Royal Anne cherries, dusty sweet raspberry and sandalwood. Velvety mouth feel with flavors of milk chocolate covered cherries, sweet fresh herbs & strawberry preserves, with an intense lengthy finish.

VARIETALS:  100% Pinot Noir;  50% Pommard Clone & 50% Clone 115  COOPERAGE:  Sixty Gallon French Oak barrels for seventeen months.

2.     2005 Axios, Napa Valley, California $124.99

 Winemaker’s Notes:Our seventh release of Axios is very special. It is a monumental wine of deep color and fruit, with unobtrusive tannins and oak. In other words, quintessential balance. As always, best hillside vineyards, farmed by us.

100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 2 years in 70% new French Oak then in bottle for an additional year. This is a wine as perfect as we could possibly produce. As a matter of fact, the next 3 vintages are stellar as well. Only a small portion of our Axios production makes our final blend. Only the very best of what we produce becomes a mere 750 cases of Axios.

Robert Parker Rating 95

3.     2007 Worthy Napa Valley, California $29.99

Winemaker’s Notes:  Many people have spoken about the incredible value of Worthy. This again rings true for the 2007 vintage. This is a stellar value, no matter how you look at it. I WOULD PUT THIS INTO ANY ULTRA PREMIUM TASTING WITHOUT RESERVATION. The pedigree of this wine is unsurpassed in a wine at this price. Here are the details:  APPELLATION: 68% Oakville / 25% Rutherford Highlands / 7% Mt. St. George                VARIETALS:  68% Cabernet Sauvignon / 28% Merlot / 2% Cabernet Franc / 2% Malbec      COOPERAGE: Aged in 2/3 new French oak for 20 months.

All “The Sips of the Week” are of course available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore check them out at www.WellsWine.com

Wine Sandwich

We talk to Karen Page & Andrew Dornenburg authors of The Food Lover’s Guide to Wine about this great book for people who love to cook and have the perfect wines paired with their meal. Find out more about Karen & Andrew here: www.karenandandrew.com

Not to Miss Events

Feb 26th, 3-6PM Wine Expo at Harford Community CollegeThe Annual Wine Expo, hosted by the HCC Alumni & Friends Association and Wine World Beer & Spirits, is an afternoon of wine, hors d’oeuvres, delectable desserts and a chocolate fountain from Bomboy’s Home Made Candy. The best part is the opportunity to sample over 200 fine wines from around the world from 35 vendors! It’s also a wonderful opportunity to network with Harford County businesses and members of the community. This crowd-pleasing event sells out to a crowd of more than 500 people. Consider a sponsorship and showcase your business at this prestigious annual event.

Feb 26 6-9 PM Baltimore Bartenders’ Guild presents Rye’s Up Against Cystic Fibrosis@ B&O American Brasserie…Enjoy samples of Bulleit Rye elixirs handcrafted by BBG members as well as beer, wine and small bites from local restaurants including B&O American Brasserie, Woodberry Kitchen, and Ten Ten. Listen to live music and bid on fabulous silent auction items.

March 8th 6:30-9:30PM Romancing the Riviera Wine Dinner at Westin in Annapolis…Travel the Riviera course by course with Exec Chef James Barrett and Laurie Forster, The Wine Coach. Only $65pp all inclusive and you’ll learn more about the upcoming cruise Laurie is hosting in July.

Wine and Dine with Laurie & Michael:

In partnership with Crystal Cruises and French Wine Explorers, Michael and I will be hosting a group during the Romancing the Riviera Cruise July 25-August 6, 2012 on board the breathtaking Crystal Serenity. We’ll sail our way from Lisbon to Rome with stops in Lisbon, Gibraltar, Barcelona Palomos, Cannes, Monte Carlo, Florence and Rome. Along the way we’ll have exclusive activities for our group that center on our shared love of food and wine. Crystal Cruises is now an all inclusive cruise ship which means your fare includes everything–food, wine, cabin and YES, wine and alcohol are included!! Learn more by clicking here

Tune in next week:

Next week we’ll talk to Oliver Senoussaoui from Breeze Restaurant of Loews Hotel abou this role in the Annapolis Food & Wine Festival on March 10^th and then Pascale Bernasse from French Wine Explorers will talk about the 5 mistakes wine lovers make when booking a vacation… and so much more!

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, The Cavit Collection, J Brown Jewelers and Santa Rita Winery.

Download Laurie’s new APP for your iPhone/iPad or Android!!

Sips of the Week

1. Konteki Pearls of Simplicity (Junmai Daigingo)

A bouquet of bright floral aromas is the perfect beginning for this crisp Junmai Daiginjo. Clean flavors of honeydew and lemon dominate but a subtle hint of licorice sneaks up once you get to the long and elegant finish. This is a great sipping sake but also a wonderful companion to a scallops, pork and other light meats. Retails: $18.99 (350 ml)

1. Tozai Voices in the Mist (Nigori, Ginjo)

Citrus and banana aromas practically jump out of the glass reminiscent of a tropical paradise. On the palate, it has solid weight and flavors of banana, fresh white rice, a pastis-like licorice flavor, and a clean finish not often found in nigori sake. Makes you want to come back for another sip. Retails: $12.99 (350 ml)

All “The Sips of the Week” are of course available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore check them out at www.WellsWine.com

Featured Interview

Ed Lehrman, co-founder of Vine Connections one the country’s leading importers of quality Sake and wine. Ed shared a wealth of knowledge on the various grades of Sake as well as tips oon serving and enjoying Sake. Check out all the great Sake Education Vine Connections on their website!

Wine Sandwich

Rick Smith, owner of Sakaya in NYC joined us to talk about how to perfectly pair Sake with food and not just Sushi! Sakaya is one of only a handful of store in the US dedicated to quality Sake and education. Learn more about Rick and Sakaya here: http://www.sakayanyc.com/

Not to Miss Events

Feb 26th, 3-6PM Wine Expo at Harford Community CollegeThe Annual Wine Expo, hosted by the HCC Alumni & Friends Association and Wine World Beer & Spirits, is an afternoon of wine, hors d’oeuvres, delectable desserts and a chocolate fountain from Bomboy’s Home Made Candy. The best part is the opportunity to sample over 200 fine wines from around the world from 35 vendors! It’s also a wonderful opportunity to network with Harford County businesses and members of the community. This crowd-pleasing event sells out to a crowd of more than 500 people. Consider a sponsorship and showcase your business at this prestigious annual event.

Feb 26 6-9 PM Baltimore Bartenders’ Guild presents Rye’s Up Against Cystic Fibrosis@ B&O American Brasserie…Enjoy samples of Bulleit Rye elixirs handcrafted by BBG members as well as beer, wine and small bites from local restaurants including B&O American Brasserie, Woodberry Kitchen, and Ten Ten. Listen to live music and bid on fabulous silent auction items.

March 8th 6:30-9:30PM Romancing the Riviera Wine Dinner at Westin in Annapolis…Travel the Riviera course by course with Exec Chef James Barrett and Laurie Forster, The Wine Coach. Only $65pp all inclusive and you’ll learn more about the upcoming cruise Laurie is hosting in July.

Wine and Dine with Laurie & Michael:

In partnership with Crystal Cruises and French Wine Explorers, Michael and I will be hosting a group during the Romancing the Riviera Cruise July 25-August 6, 2012 on board the breathtaking Crystal Serenity. We’ll sail our way from Lisbon to Rome with stops in Lisbon, Gibraltar, Barcelona Palomos, Cannes, Monte Carlo, Florence and Rome. Along the way we’ll have exclusive activities for our group that center on our shared love of food and wine. Crystal Cruises is now an all inclusive cruise ship which means your fare includes everything–food, wine, cabin and YES, wine and alcohol are included!! Learn more by clicking here

Tune in next week:

Next week we’ll talk to Gus Kalaris from Axios Wines and Karen Page & Andrew Dorenenburg authors of the Food Lover’s Guide to Wine … and so much more!

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, The Cavit Collection, J Brown Jewelers and Santa Rita Winery.

Download Laurie’s new APP for your iPhone/iPad or Android!!

Sips of the Week

Stephen Johnston, General Manager of the Fairfax at Embassy Row joined me to taste the Sips of the Week each from a winery that will be hosting a wine dinner at his 2100Prime Restuarant during the Capital Wine Festival that takes place until March 28, 2012. Looking for a great idea for Valentine’s Day check out the special menu at 2100Prime.

1.      2008 Argyle Nuthouse Chardonnay, Willamette Valley, Oregon $29.99

Winemaker’s Notes: Our good friends in Burgundy are always excited when they can get the elusive aroma and flavor of toasted hazelnuts in their Chardonnays. In this example of the Nuthouse Chardonnay we have captured just that. Those hazelnuts are complimented by a toasted marshmallow, ripe cantaloupe, and Bosc pear on the nose. Look for the ripe white peach, melon and a generous splash of fresh nutmeg and clove oak spice. The wine finishes with a long cut pear and mineral thread that is so indicative of the cool climate in which it was grown.

1.      2009 B.R. Cohn Silver Label Cabernet Sauvignon, North Coast $19.99

Winemaker’s Notes: The 2009 Silver Label Cabernet Sauvignon reflects a blending of grapes grown from select North Coast vineyards. This combination offers full, rich flavors of berry, cassis and black cherry with hints of vanilla in the background. Aging with French oak adds complexity and depth, resulting in a high quality Cabernet Sauvignon with great value. I hope you enjoy this wine as much as my family and I do.

All “The Sips of the Week” are of course available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore check them out at www.WellsWine.com

Featured Interview

Doni Belau Founder of Girls Guide to Paris talked to us about the Wine Bar Trends in Paris. She shared that many are focusing on natural wines, lesser known regions and offer delicious menus that may change every day. These are some of the wine bars she mentioned:

Saturne http://girlsguidetoparis.com/archives/saturne/

Le Verre Vole http://girlsguidetoparis.com/archives/le-verre-vole-2/

Spring http://www.barbraaustin.com/tag/spring-boutique/

Frenchie http://www.davidlebovitz.com/2011/07/frenchie-wine-bar-paris-france/

Vivant http://girlsguidetoparis.com/archives/vivant/

Les Papilles http://www.lespapillesparis.fr/

Wine Sandwich

Chef Daniel Bruce, Founder of the Capital Wine festival joined us to talk about how he plans the wine dinner menus for the Capital Wine Festival along with tips for perfect pairings at home. Chef Daniel is Executive Chef at the Boston Harbor Hotel a five star diamond hotel at Rowes Wharf in Boston, MA.

Not to Miss Events

Feb 26th, 3-6PM Wine Expo at Harford Community CollegeThe Annual Wine Expo, hosted by the HCC Alumni & Friends Association and Wine World Beer & Spirits, is an afternoon of wine, hors d’oeuvres, delectable desserts and a chocolate fountain from Bomboy’s Home Made Candy. The best part is the opportunity to sample over 200 fine wines from around the world from 35 vendors! It’s also a wonderful opportunity to network with Harford County businesses and members of the community. This crowd-pleasing event sells out to a crowd of more than 500 people. Consider a sponsorship and showcase your business at this prestigious annual event.

Feb 26 6-9 PM Baltimore Bartenders’ Guild presents Rye’s Up Against Cystic Fibrosis@ B&O American Brasserie…Enjoy samples of Bulleit Rye elixirs handcrafted by BBG members as well as beer, wine and small bites from local restaurants including B&O American Brasserie, Woodberry Kitchen, and Ten Ten. Listen to live music and bid on fabulous silent auction items.

March 8th 6:30-9:30PM Romancing the Riviera Wine Dinnerat Westin in Annapolis…Travel the Riviera course by course with Exec Chef James Barrett and Laurie Forster, The Wine Coach. Only $65pp all inclusive and you’ll learn more about the upcoming cruise Laurie is hosting in July.

Wine and Dine with Laurie & Michael:

In partnership with Crystal Cruises and French Wine Explorers, Michael and I will be hosting a group during the Romancing the Riviera Cruise July 25-August 6, 2012 on board the breathtaking Crystal Serenity. We’ll sail our way from Lisbon to Rome with stops in Lisbon, Gibraltar, Barcelona Palomos, Cannes, Monte Carlo, Florence and Rome. Along the way we’ll have exclusive activities for our group that center on our shared love of food and wine. Crystal Cruises is now an all inclusive cruise ship which means your fare includes everything–food, wine, cabin and YES, wine and alcohol are included!! Learn more by clicking here

Tune in next week:

Next week we’ll talk to Gus Kalaris from Axios Wines and Karen Page & Andrew Dorenenburg authors of the Food Lover’s Guide to Wine … and so much more!

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, The Cavit Collection, J Brown Jewelers and Santa Rita Winery.

 Subscribe to the Podcast on iTunes: Click here

Sips of the Week:

Banfi Rose Regale Brachetto d’Acqui 2010, Acqui Terme, Piedmont, Italy

Winemaker’s Notes: Festive cranberry in color with a haunting, aromatic bouquet with hints of raspberries, strawberries and hints of rose petals. A fresh raspberry taste, with crisp acidity, enticing the palate with an initial softness, graduating to a round and luscious. A unique and festive sparkling wine and a seductive aperitif. Pairs well with seafood, cheeses, spicy fare and chocolate. Serve chilled. Retails $19.99

Kaesler Stonehorse SGM 2008. Barossa Valley, Australia

Winemaker’s Notes: The ‘Stonehorse’ wines (in this case, a blend of Shiraz, Grenache & Mourvedre) are vinified to make styles that emphasize fruit characteristics with complimentary barrel maturation. The oak is designed to support and add structure to the palate without compromising the drinkability of the wine.

The finished wine spent 12 months in predominantly older oak and has been bottled without fining or filtration. The Grenache contributes soft aromatics and flavors, Shiraz some palate spine and a bit of spice and the Mourvedre lends breadth and depth. Retails $20.99

These wines and more are available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore or at a retailer near you.

Featured Guest:

We talked to Paul Girouard, Regional Director of Crystal Cruises about things to consider when choosing a cruise line. He shared the important questions traveller’s should ask when considering a cruise and how to compare various options.

Wine Sandwich (aka Food Pairing):

We talked to Susannah Siger, Owner of Ma Petite Shoe about the trends in chocolate for 2012. Check out her Chocolate Happy Hours every Friday or attend her VIP Chocolate Event on 2/8…call 410.235.3442 for more information.

Next Week:

Tune in next week for Laurie’s Sips of the Week, we’ll find out all about the Capital Wine Fest and talk to Doni Belau of the Girl’s Guide to Paris about all the hot trends at wine bars in Paris…and so much more!

Wine & Dine with Laurie and Michael:

In partnership with Crystal Cruises and French Wine Explorers, Michael and I will be hosting a group during the Romancing the Riviera Cruise July 25-August 6, 2012 on board the breathtaking Crystal Serenity. We’ll sail our way from Lisbon to Rome with stops in Lisbon, Gibraltar, Barcelona Palomos, Cannes, Monte Carlo, Florence and Rome. Along the way we’ll have exclusive activities for our group that center on our shared love of food and wine. Crystal Cruises is now an all inclusive cruise ship which means your fare includes everything–food, wine, cabin and YES, wine and alcohol are included!! Learn more by clicking here

Check Out These Great Upcoming Events:

Wine Expo at Harford Community College – Feb 26th 3-6 PM

Baltimore Bartenders’ Guild presents Rye’s Up Against Cystic Fibrosis – Feb 26 6-9 PM

@ B&O American Brasserie…Enjoy samples of Bulleit Rye elixirs handcrafted by BBG members as well as beer, wine and small bites from local restaurants including B&O American Brasserie, Woodberry Kitchen, and Ten Ten. Listen to live music and bid on fabulous silent auction items. www.bmorebarguild.com

Wine Dinner at Westin in Annapolis – March 8th …Travel the Riviera course by course with Exec Chef James Barrett and me. Only $65pp all inclusive and you’ll learn more about the upcoming cruise I am leading in July.

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, The Cavit Collection, J Brown Jewelers and Santa Rita Winery.

Subscribe to the Podcast on iTunes: Click here

Sips of the Week

Quivira Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2010 $18

Winemaker’s Notes:

Named for the 130-year-old fig tree that stands majestically among the vines, the Quivira (pronounced key-VEER-ah) Fig Tree Sauvignon Blanc block lies at the confluence of Dry Creek and Wine Creek. Here, gravelly soils and a unique microclimate give the grapes a lovely grassy character and minerality uncommon in the Dry Creek Valley, where Sauvignon Blanc usually leans toward intense tropical tones. Biodynamic farming techniques enhance the expression of terroir, as we encourage the vines to soak up the character of the site. Judicious leaf thinning exposes the clusters to just the right amount of sunlight, intensifying the Sauvignon Blanc’s fresh citrus characteristics.

The nose of this vintage is strikingly similar to the wines of the Loire, with a notable, yet mild, grassiness reminiscent of “fresh hay”. A small percentage of the Musque clone adds lifted floral notes with subtle citrus and tropical fruit tones. On the palate, dried fig and a lovely lemon zest quality emerge, and the assertive acidity is nicely balanced by a textured mid-palate. The bracing acidity of this wine makes it a good match for slightly richer foods. Try it with a goat cheese tart or richer seafood dishes. This wine will stand up to a year or two of bottle age.

Quivira Vineyards Zinfandel 2009 $20

Winemaker’s Notes:

Ruggedly enigmatic and powerfully built, Zinfandel is the reigning celebrity of Dry Creek Valley. And, like any star, Zin has a challenging, quirky side that demands attention: it ripens very unevenly on the vine and its thin skins can break if overcropped or over-irrigated. It’s typical to find slightly under-ripe, perfectly ripe, and raisin-like berries all within the same cluster. 2009, however, was beautifully balanced and even – an exceptional vintage that allowed the Zinfandel clusters to ripen much more uniformly than usual throughout the valley.

Aromas center on brambly fresh blackberry and deep, dark boysenberry. There is an uncommon brightness and vibrancy to the fruit flavors here: dark-fleshed plum and blackberry expand on a plump, round mid-palate accented by just a pinch of black pepper. Full-bodied and bold, the clean, lingering finish exemplifies the quality of the vintage. Enjoyable upon release, this Zinfandel will age nicely through 2016.

All “The Sips of the Week” are of course available at Wells Discount Liquors check them out at www.WellsWine.com

Wine and Dine with Laurie & Michael:

In partnership with Crystal Cruises and French Wine Explorers, Michael and I will be hosting a group during the Romancing the Riviera Cruise July 25-August 6, 2012 on board the breathtaking Crystal Serenity. We’ll sail our way from Lisbon to Rome with stops in Lisbon, Gibraltar, Barcelona Palomos, Cannes, Monte Carlo, Florence and Rome. Along the way we’ll have exclusive activities for our group that center on our shared love of food and wine. Crystal Cruises is now an all inclusive cruise ship which means your fare includes everything–food, wine, cabin and YES, wine and alcohol are included!! Learn more by clicking here

Tune in next week:

Next week we’ll talk to Paul Girouard from Crystal Cruise Lines, talk great Valentine’s gift ideas from Susannah Siger of Ma Petite Shoe…and so much more!

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, The Cavit Collection, J Brown Jewelers and Santa Rita Winery.

Subscribe to the Podcast on iTunes: Click here

Sips of the Week

Sloop Betty Vodka, Maryland

SLOOP BETTY is a hand crafted wheat vodka made in Maryland. Smooth, with a crisp undertone, the pure, natural ingredients of a small batch vodka come through as you savor every delicious drop. Designed with both vodka connoisseurs and those new to the pleasure of the cocktail hour, Sloop Betty can be enjoyed alone or mixed in a drink. Blackwater Distilling is working with the Maryland Organic Certification Program to obtain recognition from the state as an official organic handler, so you can be sure of Betty’s purity—plus, she’s certified kosher

Try a Betty Cucumber Martini - The recipe is 2 oz of Sloop Betty, .25 oz of Dolin Dry Vermouth (or to taste)  a cucumber slice I use a cocktail shaker with ice to chill the vodka and the vermouth and strain it into a glass with the cucumber.  Easy!

All the details on the sips of the week are available at Wells Discount Liquors check them out at www.WellsWine.com

These wines and more are available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore or at a retailer near you.

Featured Guests

Chris and Jon Cook, brothers and co-owners of Blackwater Distilling, grew up in and around Maryland. Right now, they live on both sides of the Chesapeake Bay, and are committed to producing a full line of fine spirits, including Sloop Betty, using Maryland-grown ingredients. For the past five years we have been learning everything we can about craft distilling, the history of local spirits production and ways to introduce this product in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. For more visit www.SloopBetty.com

Wine Sandwich of the Week (aka Food Pairing)

Kevan Vetter, Corporate Executive Chef at McCormick and Company and manager of the Culinary Product Development department shared the 2012 Flavor Forecast. Want to see what flavor combinatuions are hot this year check out their report and the many recipes online for you to try!

Listener Question

Neoma Rohnman of Easton, MD asked: How do you make vinegar out of leftover wine?

One of the  most important things you’ll need to get is a vinegar starter or “mother” that has the specific bacteria that creates vinegar from wine. You’ll also need a container or vessel to make the vinegar in and you can choose glass or small oak containers. Then you need to add wine to the starter and at regular intervals keep adding wine. When you purchase the mother there will be instructions on how to do this. You can purchase the starters and containers at a local home brew store or online.

Here are a few sites to check out:

Local Harvest.org http://www.localharvest.org/o-b-s-homemade-mother-of-vinegar-from-meads-C10217

Oak Barrels Ltd. http://www.oakbarrelsltd.com/vinegar-barrels.html

Wine and Dine with Laurie & Michael:

In partnership with Crystal Cruises and French Wine Explorers, Michael and I will be hosting a group during the Romancing the Riviera Cruise July 25-August 6, 2012 on board the breathtaking Crystal Serenity. We’ll sail our way from Lisbon to Rome with stops in Lisbon, Gibraltar, Barcelona Palomos, Cannes, Monte Carlo, Florence and Rome. Along the way we’ll have exclusive activities for our group that center on our shared love of food and wine. Crystal Cruises is now an all inclusive cruise ship which means your fare includes everything–food, wine, cabin and YES, wine and alcohol are included!! Learn more by clicking here

Tune in next week:

Next week Hugh Chappelle from Quivira Vineyards will talk about his wines and explain biodynamic wine making. We’ll also talk to Tony Mantuano of Spiaggia Restaurant in Chicago about his role as Chef de Cuisine of the Naples Winter Wine Festival… and so much more!

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, The Cavit Collection, J Brown Jewelers and Santa Rita Winery.

Subscribe to the Podcast on iTunes: Click here

Sips of the Week

1.  Eroica Riesling 2009, Columbia Valley, WA, $21.99

Winemaker’s Notes: “This Riesling exudes mandarin orange and sweet lime aromas and flavors with subtle mineral notes. The mouth-watering acidity is beautifully balanced by flavorful Washington Riesling fruit. After a decade we have truly found our ‘Eroica style,’ striving for beautiful bright fruit with crisp acidity and enhanced minerality.” Bob Bertheau, Winemaker

2.  Charles Smith Boom Boom Syrah 2009, Washington State, $18.99

Winemaker’s Notes: “Everything you want from a Washington Syrah….bright, fresh & smooth…super dense dark purple with meaty dark fruit, Asian spice & sweet tobacco. Intense yet plush texture…this wine will BLOW YOUR MIND!” -Charles Smith, Winemaker

All the details on the sips of the week are available at Wells Discount Liquors check them out at www.WellsWine.com

These wines and more are available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore or at a retailer near you.

Featured Guests

Two of my favorite women of wine The Saucy Sisters, Barbara Nowak and Beverly Wicham, authors of The Saucy Sisters Guide to Wine: What Every Girl Should Know Before She Unscrews! joined us to talk about their new world record for the most women unscrewing wine bottles at the same time. Thay also shed some light on food and wine pairings including the right wines for weddings, new babies and even divorce! You can pick their book up at www.saucysisters.com

Wine Sandwich of the Week (aka Food Pairing)

Food writer extraordinaire Amanda Hesser co-author of Food52: 140 Winning Recipes from Exceptional At-Home Cooks talked to us about the concept for her new book and the www.Food52.com community. We talked about some of the great recipes in her book that were developed by and for at home cooks. Amanda and I also gave you a great idea for a pot luck party that rocks! Pick up her book at Amazon or at a book store near  you.

Tune in next week:

We’ll have the owners of MD’s first distillery, Sloop Betty with us to talk and taste Vodka and Kevan Vetter, Executive Chef at  McCormick & Company will share their 2012 Flavor Forecast with us and so much more!

Wine and Dine with Laurie:

In partnership with Crystal Cruises and French Wine Explorers, Michael and I will be hosting a group during the Romancing the Riviera Cruise July 25-August 6, 2012 on board the breathtaking Crystal Serenity. We’ll sail our way from Lisbon to Rome with stops in Lisbon, Gibraltar, Barcelona Palomos, Cannes, Monte Carlo, Florence and Rome. Along the way we’ll have exclusive activities for our group that center on our shared love of food and wine. Crystal Cruises is now an all inclusive cruise ship which means your fare includes everything–food, wine, cabin and YES, wine and alcohol are included!!  Learn more by clicking here

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, Cavit and Santa Rita Winery.

Subscribe to the Podcast on iTunes: Click here

Sips of the Week

1.  Taylor Fladgate 10 yr Tawny, Price: $30.99

Winemaker’s Notes: Although best known for its legendary Vintage Ports, Taylor Fladgate’s also one of the most respected producers of aged tawny. This style of Port is fully matured in seasoned oak casks each holding about 630 liters of wine. Here, over many years of ageing, the wine gradually takes on its characteristic amber ‘tawny’ color, slowly developing the complex mellow flavors and the smooth luscious palate which are the hallmarks of this style of Port.

Taylor’s blends its magnificent 10 year old tawnies from its extensive reserves of old cask aged Ports matured in the firm’s cool and tranquil cellars (known as ‘lodges’) in Oporto on Portugal’s Atlantic coast.

Deep brick color with amber rim. Rich and elegant nose combining aromas of ripe berry fruit with a delicate nuttiness and subtle mellow notes of chocolate, butterscotch and fine oak wood. Smooth and silky on the palate and full of ripe fig and jammy flavors which persist on the long finish.

2.  Grahams Port L.B.V.. '06, Price: $25.99

Winemaker’s Notes: Graham’s Late Bottled Vintage Port is a superb wine selected from the finest production of a very good year, but unlike a ‘declared’ Vintage Port - which is bottled in its second year, ‘LBV’ matures for an average of 5 years in seasoned oak casks prior to bottling (hence the term, ‘Late Bottled’). This wood - ageing encourages the wine’s development and it is therefore ready to drink sooner than Vintage Port. As with the latter, Late Bottled Vintage Ports are sourced primarily from the Malvedos vineyard.

Graham’s Late Bottled Vintage possesses attractive licorice and floral aromas and fresh, ripe blackberry fruit flavors. It epitomizes Graham’s house style very effectively: great rich fruit concentration with spicy complexity and depth, held together by superb structure and balance.

These wines and more are available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore or at a retailer near you.

Featured Guest

Brendan Dorr Mixologist at B&O American Brasserie joined me to share his award-winning cocktail The Cadizian. You can try this yourself using the recipe below. If you want to join Brendan for his Forgotten Cocktail Parties check out his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/forgottencocktailclub

Bio:

Brendan Dorr is the Head Bartender and Mixologist at B&O American Brasserie delivering new American cuisine with the soul of a traditional brasserie and cutting edge cocktails.  Dorr brings an artistic approach to mixology, using fresh and seasonal ingredients and a flair of creativity with every cocktail creation.  Before coming to B&O American Brasserie, he spent seven years at the former Ixia Restaurant perfecting his craft. Dorr’s impressive resume includes posts at Black Olive and Aureole, Charlie Palmer’s renowned restaurant in New York.

Recently, Dorr won the Vinos de Jerez Cocktail Competition, a national competition for his cocktail The Cadizan which we tasted on the show. Here is the recipe:

The Cadizian

1 1/2 oz Redbreast 12 yr. Irish Whiskey,
1 1/2 oz Gonzalez Byass Solera 1847 Oloroso Dulce Sherry,
3/4 oz Kluge Cru Aperitif Wine (Lillet Blanc could be substituted for a more universal ingredient),
1 dash of Fee Brothers Orange Bitters,
2 dashes Peychauds Bitters,
Twist of orange to garnish.

Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass.  Add ice and stir 40 times.  Strain into a chilled coupe glass.  Garnish with a twist of orange.

Big Announcement!

In partnership with Crystal Cruises and French Wine Explorers, Michael and I will be hosting a group during the Romancing the Riviera Cruise July 25-August 6, 2012 on board the breathtaking Crystal Serenity. We’ll sail our way from Lisbon to Rome with stops in Lisbon, Gibraltar, Barcelona Palomos, Cannes, Monte Carlo, Florence and Rome. Along the way we’ll have exclusive activities for our group that center on our shared love of food and wine. Crystal Cruises is now an all inclusive cruise ship which means your fare includes everything–food, wine, cabin and YES, wine and alcohol are included!!  Learn more by clicking here

Wine Sandwich of the Week (aka Food Pairing)

Michael Forster, Private Chef, Hubby and 1/2 of He Cooks She Wines.com team talks the top 3 kitchen tools every at-home Chef should have in their tool kit:

1. Mandolin Slicer: Read more on Chef Forster’s article
2. Immersion Blender or Burr Mixer
3. 5 Types of Knifes: Not just any knife will do and choosing a knife is serious business. Watch Chef Forster’s short video on The Wine Coach YouTube Channel for everything you need to know about choosing the right knife.

Bio: Chef Michael Forster started cooking at an early age when his mother would ask him to help bake a cake for someone’s birthday or help to cook dinner. In college, Michael would cook meals for all his friends and finally realized that a culinary career was his passion. Since then Michael has studied at The Culinary Institute of America and apprenticed at Le Cirque, in New York City where he learned traditional French cooking from basic sauces to intricate plate presentation.
Over the last decade, Chef Forster has held positions in some of the country’s top restaurants including Osteria del Circo in New York City, Hampton’s at Baltimore’s Harbor Court Hotel and, now, as full time private chef. Michael is currently a Private Chef for a Prominent Washington D.C. family and has cooked for many of the D.C. elite, including heads of State, Foreign Diplomats and Supreme Court Justices.

Tune in next week:

Next week Amanda Hesser coauthor of Food 52 and two of my favorite ladies in wine Barbara Nowak and Beverly Wicham—the Saucy Sisters!!… and so much more!

To get info from today’s show go to TheWineCoach.com or get my Free CD on the 7 Secrets to Outsmarting Any Wine List. You can also connect with me on FB at facebook.com/winecoach or tweet me @TheWineCoach.

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, The Cavit Collection, Santa Rita Winery and J. Brown Jewelers.

Romancing the Riviera with The Wine Coach

Lisbon to Rome, July 25 to August 6, 2012

12 Day All Inclusive Cruise starting at $5410 per person

(see below for all that’s included…yes wine is included!)

As we enter 2012, I want to personally invite you to experience a trip of a lifetime with me in 2012. In partnership with Crystal Cruises and French Wine Explorers, Michael and I will be hosting a group during the Romancing the Riviera Cruise July 25-August 6, 2012 on board the breathtaking Crystal Serenity. We’ll sail our way from Lisbon to Rome with stops in Lisbon, Gibraltar, Barcelona Palomos, Cannes, Monte Carlo, Florence and Rome.

Along the way we’ll have exclusive activities for our group that center on our shared love of food and wine. Crystal Cruises is now an all inclusive cruise ship which means your fare includes everything–food, wine, cabin and YES, wine and alcohol are included!! Scroll down to see all that is included because it is extensive. I am thrilled to offer this experience to you because the quality of what Crystal has to offer.

I had the pleasure of touring one of their ships (see pictures on Facebook Page) in the Manhattan port and it is spectacular. All cabins have windows and most have their own verandas–no inside cabins. It is a smaller ship so this is a cruise for select travelers like you.

Join us for this trip of a lifetime in 2012 dedicated to discovering delicious food, wine and some of the best destinations in the Mediterranean and for the events reserved exclusively for our group. For more information or to register, call me at 410-820-4212 or email me at laurie@thewinecoach.com.

Here are some of the wonderful features included in your cruise.

In addition to Book Now Fares, Crystal’s All Inclusive value provides:

Fine Dining

• Free fine wines and premium spirits as well as dining in all restaurants, including specialty venues Prego by Piero Selvaggio, and Silk Road and The Sushi Bar by Nobu Matsuhisa

• Open-bar service throughout the ship

• Pre-paid gratuities for housekeeping, bar and dining staff throughout the ship

• All non-alcoholic beverages including bottled water, specialty coffee drinks, soft drinks, fresh juices and Afternoon Tea service

• Acclaimed Crystal Wine & Food Festival® cruises featuring famous chefs and wine authorities on select voyages

• Early embarkation luncheon

• Welcome champagne

• 24-hour room service

Enrichment & Entertainment

• Yamaha Passport to Music® keyboard lessons

• Berlitz foreign language classes

• Computer University@Sea® classes with software instruction

• Technology Concierge “how to” tips on latest high-tech gadgets and apps

• Experiences of Discovery® theme cruises with focused programming on music, fashion, wellness, golf and more

• Crystal Visions® lecture series featuring renowned speakers, authors, celebrities and destination experts

• Award-winning Broadway-style entertainment, piano bars and dance clubs

• Recent-release films in spacious surround-sound Hollywood Theatre

• Dance lessons

• Art classes

• Dedicated Junior Cruiser facilities and programs

• Comfortable shuttles to town

• Concierge services for personal arrangements ashore

Fitness

• Gym with state-of-the art fitness equipment

• Well-appointed separate men’s and women’s steam, saunas and whirlpools in the only Feng Shui-inspired spa at sea

• Fitness classes including yoga, Pilates Reformer, “Tour de Spin” cycling, cutting-edge Kinesis™ systems and Tai Chi courses

• Golf lessons with PGA pros

• Walk-on-Water weighted vests and Nordic Pole walking equipment

• Paddle tennis

Stateroom Services & Amenities

• In-stateroom satellite TV and movie/DVD rentals

• Twice daily housekeeping with nightly turndown service

• Kimonos, Frette bathrobes, 100% Egyptian cotton linens and pillow menu

• Self-service laundries

Penthouse Services & Amenities

• Personal butler service

• Unpacking and packing upon request

• Pressing and shoe shine

• Afternoon tea service and nightly hors d’oeuvres

• Stocked bar and afternoon canapés

• Order “in” from specialty restaurants

• Private car transfers (category CP only)

Remember, for more information or to register, call me at 410-820-4212 or email me at laurie@thewinecoach.com

Subscribe to the Podcast on iTunes: Click here

Sips of the Week

Start your New Year off right with these two unique wines…Happy New Year’s from The Wine Coach. May 2012 be  your best vintage ever!

1. Yannis Assyrtiko 2010, Santorini, Greece ($15.99)

Assyrtiko is one of Greece’s finest multi-purpose white grape varieties. It was first cultivated on the island of Santorini, where it has developed a unique character producing excellent AOC wines. Assyrtiko has the ability to maintain its acidity as it ripens. It yields a bone-dry wine that has citrus aromas mixed with an earthy, mineral aftertaste due to the volcanic soil of Santorini. In the last 25 years Assyrtiko has been planted throughout Greece including Macedonia and Attica where it expresses a milder and more fruity character. (Info provided by All About Greek Wine. Want to know more visit www.allaboutgreekwine.com)

2.  Bodega J. Chiappella Il Vecchio Portico, Canelones, Uruguay ($13.99)

East of Argentina is Uruguay where the reds are mostly based on the Tannat a grape from Southwest France which is known for the wines of Madiran. Tannat has high content of antioxidants and is one of the healthiest of the red grapes. This wine is a blend of two grapes, Tannat (50%) the signature grape from Uruguay and Cabernet Sauvignon (50%). One sniff displays aromas of plums and cherry fruits with a touch of earth and oak. Il Vecchio Portico spends 10 months in new American and French oak barrels. Wile bign in structure this wine is surprisingly smooth and its acidity makes it a food friendly wine.

These wines and more are available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore or at a retailer near you.

Featured Guest

Amanda Crawford, Auction Director and Lead Specialist of Spectrum Wine Auctions hared with us the Wines Trends for 2012… Having just completed a high profile auction in Hong Kong Auction she told us what is hot and what is not in the world of wine investment and collecting. www.SpectrumWine.com

Listener Question

Financial Advisor Valerie Campbell asks Amanda Crawford and I the best advice to give her clients who want to begin  investing in wine.

Wine Sandwich of the Week (aka Food Pairing)

Dave Zino, Executive Chef and culinary spokesperson for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, joined us to talk about healthy cooking with beef.  As part of the Consumer Marketing team, he works closely with the organization’s Culinary Innovations Group, providing guidance on new product concepts and recipe development.

Dave was a contributor to the The Healthy Beef Cookbook and in November 2007. He shared three recipes with us T-Bone for 2, Porcini Mushrooms and Beef Bolognese and Beef and Heirloom Tomato Salad. These and more great recipes, videos and more can be found at www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com

Tune in next week:

This week master mixologist Brendan Dorr from the B&O American Brasserie in Baltimore joins us with one of his signature cocktails to kick off 2012 and he’ll share his secrets to pairing cocktails with food. Expect 2 great Sips of the Week to update your wine rack for the New Year and so much more!

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, The Cavit Collection,  Santa Rita Winery and J. Brown Jewelers.

Subscribe to the Podcast on iTunes: Click here

Sips of the Week

2.  D’arenberg Laughing Magpie 2008 (94%Shiraz, 6%Viognier , McLaren Vale, South Australia

Winemaker’s notes: As well as varietal dark fruits and spice, the nose features savoury characters of cooked meats, spices and cracked black pepper. The palate is robust and concentrated with great intensity. The fruit is more expressive on the palate with a touch of raspberry, plum, blackcurrant and blueberry with underlying spice and just a hint of savoury oak.

The mineral silky tannins build nicely on the palate and provide good structure and impressive length. This wine will benefit from bottle age and if cellared correctly will drink well over the next 15 years.  Retails $24.99

All the details on the sips of the week are available at Wells Discount Liquors check them out at www.wellswine.com

These wines and more are available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore or at a retailer near you.

Featured Guest

Nycci Nellis of Foodie and the Beast on WTOP and www.thelistareyouonit.com talks with us about great gifts for foodies. Nycci Nellis is founder & publisher of TheListAreYouOnIt.com, D.C.’s premier resource for what’s happening on the regional food & wine scene, with over 30,000 subscribers. She and her husband are co-hosts of D.C.’s only food and wine variety show, Foodie & The Beast airing Sunday’s on WTOP.

Wine Sandwich of the Week (aka Food Pairing)

Jerry Pellegrino of Waterfront Kitchen www.waterfrontkitchen.com fills us in on his new venture, Waterfront Kitchen and tells us how to dry age a standing rib roast and cook it perfectly! Executive Chef Pellegrino is fascinated by food and wine, and the way they work in harmony on the palate. His understanding of the two goes all the way to the molecular level, drawing on his advanced education in molecular biology. His cuisine is simple and surprising, pairing unexpected ingredients together to work with Corks’ extensive wine offerings. Menu planning meetings begin, in fact, with a good bottle of wine, its taste providing inspiration for new menu items. The cuisine has been called “new American” but it is unique, a result of the Chef’s adventurous attitude towards the marriage of flavors.

Chef Pellegrino draws much of his inspiration from America’s great artisan winemakers. He appreciates the love and care these small growers take in their products and believes it shows in their wines. With the same devotion, Chef Pellegrino is often found in the dining room sharing a personal story, explaining a cooking technique, or joining the waitstaff in helping guests select a great wine.

Tune in next week:

Sadly there is no show on 12/24 due to the Ravens game but we’ll be back on New Year’s Eve! We’ll talk about 2 great new wines to take you into 2012 and sommelier Amanda Crawford of Spectrum Auctions fills us in on the top trends in wine for 2012…and more!

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, Cavit and Santa Rita Winery.

Subscribe to the Podcast on iTunes: Click here

Sips of the Week

2.  Saint Cosme Cotes du Rhone   $11.99
Winemaker’s notes: 
100% Syrah Aged in vat. Limestony sands, red clay, rolling stones. Saint Cosme Cotes du Rhone, my little syrah is well looked after every day, this is very important. I only use the nicest sources to make this wine : the terroir of Vinsobres and the “galets roulés” (rolling stones) by the Rhone river, very similar to the best places in Chateauneuf. We are talking about extraordinary quality potential. Watch out 2010 : this is purely my best Cotes du Rhone since 2007, without a doubt. The quality of the fruit is superb, the wine is profound, round, with a deep colour. Its crunchiness brings a lot of pleasure and anybody can understand and enjoy it. This wine brings me plenty of satisfaction and makes me learn every year. I am simply very happy to be able to deal with such a vintage…Wonderful. Graphite, strawberry compote, liquorish, lilacs. For more: www.saintcosme.com

All the details on the sips of the week are available at Wells Discount Liquors check them out at www.wellswine.com

These wines and more are available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore or at a retailer near you.

Featured Guest

Chris Coker of Blue Grass Tavern in Federal Hill discusses the secrets to ordering off any wine list and we taste his delicious Monstant from Mas Sorrer which he offers by the glass and bottle at the restaurant.

Wine Sandwich of the Week (aka Food Pairing)

Chef Galen Sampson, Owner of Dogwood’s Restaurant in Hampden will talk about how he leverages the best local products to create his delicious farm to table focused menu. He tells us about some of the great farms in the area that you can visit to create your own farm to table holiday spread.

Tune in next week: 

We’ll talk about great Holiday Gifts for Foodies with Nycci Nellis host of Foodie and the Beast on WTOP and Holiday cooking with Jerry Pellegrino of Corks Restaurant. See you there!

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, Cavit and Santa Rita Winery.

Sips of the Week

1. Mirabelle Brut Non-Vintage, North Coast, California($26.99, Blend: 55% Chardonnay, 45% Pinot Noir)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Generous aromas of vanilla waffle cone and spun sugar are followed by rich apricot compote and ripe citrus. The palate is delicious upon entry, with flavors of bright lemon and tropical mango. In addition to the fruitful characters, the palate is layered with essences of honey and toasted almonds. The wine’s viscous and coating nature gives way to refreshing acidity on the finish.” – Winemakers Keith Hock and Hugh Davies

2. Schramsberg Brut Rose 2007, North Coast, California ($42.99, Blend: 65% Pinot Noir, 35% Chardonnay)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Juicy strawberry jumps out of the glass, followed by raspberry and cherries. The berry bouquet is complimented by mandarin orange and papaya. The palate has exotic flavors of mango and cantaloupe, followed by mouthwatering citrus. A juicy viscosity leads to a long, lingering finish.” – Winemakers Keith Hock and Hugh Davies

These and more Schramsberg Wines are available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore or at a retailer near you.

Featured Guest

Schramsberg Vineyards is now in the hands of Jack and Jamie Davies’ youngest son, Hugh. Born in 1965, the year his parents Jack and Jamie Davies revived the historic Schramsberg Vineyards property in Napa Valley, Hugh was named President and CEO of the 40-year old sparkling wine house in 2005.

At Schramsberg, Hugh has led the ongoing effort to fine-tune winemaking and grape growing techniques, building upon the winery’s venerable track record of producing award-winning sparkling wines. Schramsberg’s current stable of vineyards includes more than 90 specially selected sites in the Carneros district of Napa Valley, the Anderson Valley, and along the Sonoma and Marin coasts.

For prior hands-on experience in the wine industry before joining Schramsberg, Hugh worked with Möet et Chandon in Epernay; Petaluma Winery in South Australia, and Mumm Napa Valley, among others.

Wine Sandwich of the Week (aka Food Pairing)

Stacey Adams, Cheese Expert and owner of Tastings Gourmet Market in Annapolis joins us to share some cheeses that are perfect for sparkling wine. Pair these with the Sips of the Week and you have an instant party.

Stacey suggests these cheeses for your bubblies: Pierre Robert, Delices d’Argental au Truffe, Coulommiers, Parmiggiano Reggiano, and Vintage Gouda. Visit her at the Tastings Gourmet Market at 1410 Forest Drive in Annapolis to taste these or to experience her weekly cheese tastings..

Want to learn more about cheese and Champagne or Sparkling wine? Read her article Luxurious Cheeses Worthy of Champagne on her BLOG.

Tune in next week:

On 12/10 I’ll feature 2 of my favorite wines to have on hand for the holidays for parties or just to trim the tree. We’ll also talk about the secrets to ordering wine when you are out to dinner for your next holiday gathering or client meeting with Sommelier Extraordinaire Chris Coker of Blue Grass Restaurant in Federal Hill. Hope to “see” you there for these features and so much more!

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, Cavit and Santa Rita Winery.