Serendipity….
As the saying goes, timing is everything in life. We cross paths with people at specific moments, and magic happens. One afternoon, while wandering the charming streets of Tbilisi’s old town, I stumbled upon a wine bar that my Georgian ambassador wine friend Erika had raved about. Nino Meris Selections is a woman-owned boutique specializing in artisanal Georgian wines and I was immediately captivated. The shop was filled with warmth and hospitality the moment I arrived. As I indulged in a thoughtfully curated wine flight, Monika, their wine specialist shared fascinating insights into the history of Georgian wine, particularly the significance of Saint Nino. She is THE patron saint of Georgian wine who brought Christianity to Georgia in the 4th century AD, carried a cross made of grapevines. Hence the link to the very popular name and coincidentally the name of the shop owner. As the afternoon progresses, I met a fellow Canadian traveler Laura and we bonded over our shared passion for wine and travel. We discussed our careers, preferences, and reasons for visiting Tbilisi. Mid tasting flight, I was commenting on how extraordinary the wine was and literally in walks the winery owner. I was stunned! Dareen of Tezi Winery proceeded to open a few more of her wines along with her partner Peter as we discussed their journey in wine. No sooner had I tasted Nino’s gold medal Mundus Vini winner, in walks Nino herself! The delightful finale was Monika treated me to her own lilac spirit which blew me away with its feminine power. I was immersed in such an incredible woman in wine atmosphere and moment that I did not want to end. Two wines, Tezi and Nino Meris, particularly stood out for their unique flavors and character. They were a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and dedication of the winemakers. Visiting Nino Meris’s shop is an immersive experience, filled with warmth, hospitality, and a profound appreciation for natural wine. If you find yourself in Tbilisi, I wholeheartedly recommend visiting this enchanting wine haven and indulging in a memorable tasting.
Come Over October – New Zealand
What better to kick off COME ON OVER OCTOBER than an evening with friends, delicious nibbles and the crowd-pleasers wine country, New Zealand of course. New Zealand wines provide a cocophany of delight – known for their bright acidity, intense fruit flavors, and refreshing character, these wines offer a delightful drinking experience that’s sure to please every palate. These highly accessible New Zealand wines offer consistent quality and pair well with a variety of foods. We sampled them alongside delectable New Zealand delicacies: – Wairau River Pinot Gris 2022 – Babich Family Estates Organic Sauvignon Blanc 2023 – Nautilus Chardonnay 2021 – Pencarrow Pinot Noir 2022 – Saint Clair Sauvignon Blanc 2023 A little more about New Zealand wines: Distinct Flavors: New Zealand’s diverse climate and soil conditions produce wines with a unique character. From the vibrant and zesty Sauvignon Blancs to the elegant Pinot Noirs, there’s something to suit every palate. High Quality: New Zealand’s winemakers are committed to producing high-quality wines. They employ sustainable farming practices and meticulous attention to detail in the vineyard and winery. Accessibility: While some New Zealand wines are premium, many are reasonably priced, making them accessible to a wider audience. Refreshing and Food-Friendly: New Zealand wines often have a refreshing acidity that makes them easy to drink and pairs well with a variety of foods. For next gathering, make New Zealand wines your choice and join in on the delicious fun. Thank you so much for this virtual tour & taste of New Zealand.
Fall At Dr Frank Konstantin
It is a beautiful time of year yet insanely busy to pop in for a visit in #flxwine country. I was fortunate to tour and taste amidst the busy harvest bees unloading crates of grape, the pressing machine running nonstop and a whirlwind of people getting this years harvest put to rest. You gotta love the action at the winery 😊 For those who may not know, Dr. Konstantin Frank, in 1958 planted the first to successfully plant and cultivate vinifera grapes in the region which sparked the “Vinifera Revolution” in the region. You will find some of the country’s oldest vines at Dr. Frank. The winery’s commitment to sustainability, biodynamics and its beautiful location on Keuka Lake (one of the Finger Lakes) makes it a must visit. We tasted a range of wines from the region’s signature whites Riesling, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer and Muscat Ottonel to its signature red Cabernet Franc , Pinot Noir & a few treats along the way – a Rkatsiteli and Ruby Amur (a fortified dessert wine) Until next time, a big thanks to the staff for their hospitality. Beyond the wines, visitors can explore the estate vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy tastings. The winery’s commitment to sustainability and its beautiful location make it a must-visit destination. Watch my reel on Fall At Dr Frank #flxwinecountry #drfrank #newyorkwine #keukalake #winery #winerytour #wineryvisit #sustainablewine #biodynamicfarming #biodynamicwine #biodynamicwinegrower #fallvibes
Harvest Time At Hermann J. Wiemer Winery
Heramann J Wiemer Winery: A Finger Lakes Gem Last month during harvest I visited Hermann J. Wiemer Winery spreads across 90 acres of vines in Seneca Lake AVA of the Finger Lakes region. Founded in 1979 by German-born winemaker Hermann J. Wiemer, and it is still a family-owned and operated business today. His was the second winery in the region to commit completely to vinifera varieties — above all Riesling. Co-owners Cornell viticulturist and winemaker Fred Merwarth (who joined the winery in 2001) & Swedish agronomist Oskar Bynke, who purchased the winery in 2007 committed to crafting elegant and complex wines that authentically capture the distinctive character of the Finger Lakes. The winery’s unwavering commitment to sustainable farming practices and environmentally friendly winemaking ensures the long-term health of the vineyards and the production of high-quality wines for generations to come. Wiemer is New York’s first AND only Demeter-certified biodynamic vineyard. Oskar joined us to discuss his views on biodynamics, their practices and his magical greenhouse where they are experimenting with new grafted vines such as Dornfelder, Lemberger & Saperavi. We enjoyed a variety of premium wines which began with a welcome traditional method sparkling wine to enliven the palate Cuvée Brut 2019. Followed by a Riesling comparative across different vineyards Riesling HJW 2022: Aromas of lemon zest, white peach, and subtle floral notes. The palate is dry, with bright acidity balancing the ripe fruit flavors. The finish is long and mineral-driven, leaving a refreshing impression. This wine would pair well with grilled fish or light poultry dishes. Riesling Magdalena 2022: a richer, more opulent style. Aromas of honeysuckle, ripe pear, and yellow apple are prominent, leading to a palate with layers of orchard fruit and tropical notes. The acidity is still present, but it takes a supporting role to the fruit, creating a well-balanced and complex wine. Riesling Flower Day 2023: s a vibrant and refreshing expression of Finger Lakes Riesling. It bursts with aromas of citrus fruits, white flowers, and tropical fruits, creating a captivating bouquet. On the palate, the wine is crisp and lively, with a delicate sweetness balanced by a refreshing acidity. The finish is long and lingering, with notes of honey and grapefruit lingering on the tongue. Riesling HJW Bio 2020: This biodynamically farmed Riesling showcases vibrant citrus and stone fruit aromas, complemented by subtle floral notes. The palate is lively with crisp acidity, balancing a lingering sweetness and mineral finish. Plus a treat of a Riesling 2010 was absolutely gorgeous. A vibrant bouquet of ripe peach, lime zest, and floral notes, complemented by a hint of mineral undertones. On the palate, it showcases a harmonious balance of sweetness and acidity, with flavors of juicy apricot and crisp green apple leading to a refreshing finish. The wine’s complexity and depth make it a delightful experience, reflecting the terroir of the Finger Lakes with a lingering, elegant aftertaste. A beautiful example of a well-crafted Riesling that is both expressive and refined. Our next two flights were a comparative of Chardonnays, a Gewürztraminer and Cabernet Franc: HJW Bio Chardonnay 2021: This Chardonnay, crafted with biodynamic farming methods, showcases the complexity and richness of Finger Lakes fruit. The nose offers aromas of white flowers, citrus peel, and a touch of toasted oak. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with flavors of apple, pear, and a hint of spice. The acidity is balanced, leading to a long, lingering finish. Chardonnay Reserve 2022: 2022 Hermann J. Wiemer Chardonnay Reserve This Chardonnay showcases the richness and complexity of Finger Lakes fruit. Aromas of ripe apple, pear, and toasted nut lead to a palate with notes of citrus, honey, and a touch of vanilla. The wine is balanced and full-bodied with a lingering finish. Gewürztraminer 2023: exemplifies the varietal’s signature aromatic profile with notes of lychee, honeysuckle, and rose petal. The palate is rich and complex, offering flavors of ripe peach, apricot, and pineapple, balanced by a refreshing acidity. The finish is long and lingering, with a touch of spice. Cabernet Franc 2021″: offers a complex nose of herbs, savory notes, and redcurrants. The palate is surprisingly crisp, with plenty of red and black currants. The wine possesses good depth and a long finish with hints of spice and bark. Cabernet Franc Magdalena 2022: showcases the elegance and complexity of Finger Lakes Cabernet Franc. The nose reveals a captivating blend of red berry notes, such as black cherry and currant, intertwined with subtle earthy tones and hints of spice. The palate is rich and structured, with flavors of dark plum, blackcurrant, and cedarwood. The tannins are well-integrated, providing a firm backbone to the wine and leading to a long, lingering finish. From the moment you step onto the estate, you’re immersed in a serene atmosphere where the passion for winemaking is palpable. The geese roaming amongst the vines, the harvest action, the estate is alive with energy. The tasting room offers a warm and inviting space to savor the winery’s exquisite wines, each one a reflection of the unique terroir and meticulous craftsmanship. If you’re a wine enthusiast seeking a truly memorable experience, Hermann J Wiemer Winery is a must-visit destination in the Finger Lakes. One thing is clear, the wines have a distinct terroir character interlaced with elegance and complexity. A big thank you to Juan, our wine specialist, who has an enormous passion for what he does (who amongst you can relate when it comes to wine). Watch my full reel on Harvest Time Hermann J Wiemer
Viva Grandes Pagos d’España
Back to my wine educational stomping grounds at Commonwealth Wine School in Boston for a masterclass & extensive tasting about Grandes Pagos de España – The People, Places & Pagos whereby 32 of the 34 wineries of the designation were presented, savored and thoroughly enjoyed. Grandes Pagos de España is an association of prestigious Spanish wineries that are dedicated to producing high-quality wines from specific, exceptional vineyards. These vineyards, known as “Grandes Pagos,” are considered to be among the finest in Spain, offering unique terroir and producing wines of exceptional character and complexity. This prestigious designation for Spanish wineries is akin to the French Grand Cru Classé system, highlighting vineyards with unique terroir, a shared philosophy, the people and exceptional quality. Key Characteristics of Grandes Pagos: Singular Terroir: Each Pago boasts a distinct microclimate, soil composition, and topography that contribute to its unique wine character. High-Quality Grapes: Only grapes from the designated Pago can be used to produce wines under the Grandes Pagos label. Limited Production: Production volumes are often restricted to ensure the highest quality and exclusivity. Aging Potential: Wines from Grandes Pagos are known for their ability to age gracefully, often developing complexity and character over time. Notable Grandes Pagos Regions: La Rioja: This classic Spanish wine region is home to several renowned Grandes Pagos, including Finca Valpiedra and Cantos de Valpiedra. La Mancha: The largest wine region in Spain, La Mancha boasts the first official Vino de Pago, Dominio de Valdepusa. Toro: This region, known for its powerful, structured wines, features the prestigious Bodega Numanthia. If you’re a wine enthusiast seeking exceptional quality and a taste of Spain’s rich winemaking heritage, exploring Grandes Pagos wines is a must. Thank you so much to our hosts for this extensive travel through the terroirs of the Grandes Pagos most fascinating masterclass experience and many new discoveries. Stay tuned for more! Watch my full reel on Viva Grandes Pagos
Hopping Delicious Concrete Aged Sauvignon Blanc
Hopping to the end of summer with a tasty green treat to cool things down – my quick refreshing Chilled Avocado Cucumber Yogurt Soup paired with a delicious Concrete Aged Sauvignon Blanc from @frogsleap Frogs Leap Sauvignon Blanc Concrete Aged 2022 A low yielding, hand selected blocks of high quality Sauvignon Blanc that is fresh, balanced and beautifully made. Fermenting and ageing 100% in 500-gallon concrete egg with extensive time in the lees creates a unique depth and balanced purity. Such an inviting sip. Pours into the glass pale straw hue reminds me of a frog’s belly with a tickle of green. An aromatic crescendo of citrus and stone fruits, with zesty lemon and lime juice and pith dominating the bouquet. A twist of passion fruit intermixed with greens – green pea, fresh herbs, bell pepper floating in to flinty smokiness minerality and hay. That first sip is a creamy dreamy texture, layered with umami and lip smacking brightness both in flavor and acidity. The citrus notes take center stage with lemon lime curd, lime zest, pink grapefruit and lemongrass. Next up nectarine; mango, underripe pineapple and orange blossom followed by smoke, tarragon and chervil. The finish is long and lingering, with a refreshing salinity and savory citrus pithy element note that leaves you wanting more. Intense and elegant with a gratifying balance of complexity and freshness. I love this wine. Good golly get yours. For the soup simply add of the ingredients: 2 avocados, pitted and diced 2 cucumbers, peeled and seeded 3 scallions/green onions, white parts only, chopped 1 cup plain whole fat greek yogurt 1 lime, juiced 1 tsp cumin 1 clove garlic 1 cup water for consistency 1/2 tsp chopped fresh jalapeño, deseeded (optional) 1/2 bunch cilantro, chopped (optional) Add all of the above ingredients to the blender except the cilantro. Add salt and pepper to taste. If you like things spicy, add some jalapeño to the blender and/or cilantro. Enjoy!
Elevate Your Champagne Style, Choose Polo & Luxury Car Smiles
September 21st was a beautiful fall day for a polo match. September, the song playing during plant the divots a.k.a Pretty Woman moment), the Newport Polo grounds hosted an extraordinary match between Bentley and Rolls-Royce in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. To celebrate this unique event, I brought along a VERY LIMITED RELEASE bottle of blanc de noirs, a champagne perfect for chukka good times. You’ll get a kick out if this exciting collaboration between Topographia & Champagne Drappier. Topografia is a artisanal winery in Mendoza, Argentina followed their success of limited release wines decided to travel to different regions to collaborate and build long lasting winemaking relationships. I had the pleasure to interview Carlos and as he said, “It had to have an intangible fit, an ethos, synergy if you will.” It only made sense to venture to Urville, Champagne, where Pinot Noir thrives where a collaboration with renowned grower producer family owned Champagne Drappier champagne was born. A 100% Pinot Noir non vintage blend of 55% 2019 Pinot Noir (Urville, Aube), 35% 2020 Pinot Noir (Neuville, Aube), 10% 2018 Pinot Noir “Temps Perdu” (Urville, Aube). Aged for 36 months sur lie with zero dosage. 252 bottles – I happen to be a very fortunate champagne lover to receive a bottle. The light gold wine bursts into the glass, with a fine, zesty mousse that tickles the nose with upfront aromas of tart cherry, raspberries, honeyed peaches, candied pink grapefruit and a medley marzipan, almond flour and vanilla cream. The sip lives up to the aroma’s lofty promise, with bright and fruity sensations taking the lead. Red apples, more cherries, and red berries fill out this amiable core, coated with accents of roasted almonds, cherry pit, blood orange pith, minerals and freshly baked shortbread . The finish is clean, pure, and absolutely mouth-quenching – so beware of how quickly your glass will empty! Having tasted a number of Carlos‘s wines, I had a certain expectation on how I would be, the emotions that it would stir…… It was exactly as I expected, so dreamy, elegant with a warm friendliness to it. The kind of champagne you want to share with friends, which is exactly Carlos’s intentions his exquisite wines. Do yourself a favor and get your hands on this champagne, it will spur your interest. Link to my Chilled Sophistication & Polo Elevation Instagram reel.
Bubbly Grape Mood With Brick &Mortar Rosé
A natural bubbly that simply puts you in a grape mood. A winemaking journey born from their love of vintage champagne and white Burgundy. Hailing from the heart of Healdsburg, California, Brick & Mortar Winery husband and wife team Matt and Alexis Iaconis established the winery in 2011 with a focus on single-vineyard wines. Their carefully selected, holistic approach of high-elevation vineyards yield exceptional grapes. By embracing a minimalist approach to winemaking, Brick & Mortar highlights the natural qualities of each vintage and vineyard, resulting in wines that are both elegant and expressive. Brick & Mortar VP Rosé Nature 2021 A Pét Nat from Sonoma Coast, California blend of cool climate Pinot Noir (55%) and Chardonnay (45%). Pours into the glass a salmon pink hue with a hint of peach. Tiny bubbles tickle your nose with aromas of fresh strawberries, raspberries, red apple, pear and orange zest pop and fizz along with by subtle floral notes of honeysuckle. The first sip has a vibrant punch of juicy red berries, rhubarb and cream soda. The crisp acidity balances the sweetness beautifully, light and refreshing. A fizzy delight that just makes you happy. The perfect pairing for a chill evening with fun fizz and sushi-a spicy Mexican ahi tuna roll and avocado roll. The refreshing fizz of the pet nat perfectly complemented the delicate flavors of the sushi.
Life Is A Picnic, Enjoy Every Bite
La Vieille Ferme, a southern Rhône Valley Classic from Famille Perrin in the heart of Rhode Island’s Narrow Lane Orchards. La Vieille Ferme is part of the Perrin family,known for their prestigious Château de Beaucastel, established La Vieille Ferme in the 1970s. The concept was to create an affordable, high-quality wine that reflected the character of their flagship estate. “The Old Farmhouse,” is a nod to the traditional winemaking methods and the region’s rich history. The blends are classic Southern Rhône grapes used in La Vieille Ferme wines. The wine’s popularity quickly soared, both in France and internationally. Its approachable style, consistent quality, and excellent value made it a favorite among wine enthusiasts. Today, La Vieille Ferme remains a cornerstone of the Perrin family’s portfolio, continuing to delight drinkers with its classic Rhône Valley character. Unapologetically easy going with something for everyone in a classic Rhône Valley character, along this basket of some local goodies won’t disappoint. It’s the perfect picnic trio: La Vielle Ferme Rosé 2023: A classic blend of blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault, this pale pink beauty is like a refreshing dip into a crystal-clear pool on a sweltering summer day. It bursts with juicy aromas of ripe strawberries and juicy watermelon, followed by a hint of citrus zest that tickles your nose.On the palate, it’s a light and breezy dance of flavors. The red berry notes explode like a firework show, leaving a trail of sweetness that’s perfectly balanced by a crisp, refreshing acidity. It’s like a summer picnic in a bottle! La Vielle Ferme Blanc 2022: This French a white blend of Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, and Marsanne. It is like a refreshing sea breeze on a hot summer day. It’s got a bright, citrusy nose that’s all sunshine and lemons. On the palate, it’s light and crisp, with a touch of sweetness that dances on your tongue. Think juicy white peach,a hint of honey, and a refreshing mineral finish. It’s the perfect wine to sip on the patio with friends or to pair with a light seafood dish. La Vielle Ferme Rouge 2022: A traditional blend dominated by Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, this red blend is like a summer party in a bottle! It bursts with juicy notes of ripe raspberries and cherries, dancing on your tongue with a touch of sweet spice. Imagine a picnic basket overflowing with sun-kissed berries, and that’s the aroma this wine brings to the table. The tannins are smooth and easygoing, making it a perfect companion for grilled meats or a cheese platter. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to leave you wanting more. So, grab a glass, kick back, and let the good times flow! Look at how delicious this spread is 😋 so enjoy nature and the basket of goodies with local cheeses from Narragansett Creamery, a double cream soft cheese Le Fromager d’Affinois, slow aged salami Salt & Twine, my homemade apple cider jelly (from the orchard). Happiness is a picnic blanket and a basket full of goodies. Perfect picnic pairings The roosters love it 😉 no henning around.
A Remarkable Wine Journey – Julian Reneaud
Julian’s winemaking journey is a testament to his adventurous spirit and unwavering passion. From his early travels through France and California to his eventual landing in Tuscany, he’s always been drawn to the unknown, eager to learn and innovate. Julian’s wine education began with hands-on experience in various regions. He spent time in France and California, honing his skills and developing a deep appreciation for different wine styles. In the early 2000s, he joined Opus One in Napa Valley, where he was part of the winery’s pioneering efforts in biodynamic and organic viticulture. This experience would shape his future approach to winemaking. In 2007, Julian received a life-changing opportunity to become the director of a Tuscan estate. Despite a promising offer to work with Michel Rolland in China, he couldn’t resist the allure of Italy’s winemaking heritage. At just 24 years old, he immersed himself in the Tuscan culture, language, and winemaking traditions. After several years as a wine director, Julian yearned for a new challenge. In 2016, he and a group of colleagues by chance stumbled upon an an abandoned estate in Riparbella, a picturesque region on the Tuscan coast. The beauty of landscape won them over. They named their new winery Colline Albelle, which means “beautiful hills” in Italian. With unwavering determination, he embarked on a journey of restoration and regeneration, breathing new life into the neglected vineyards and surrounding landscape. From the beginning, Julian and his team embraced biodynamic farming practices. They transformed the neglected vineyards into a thriving ecosystem, reintroducing indigenous flora and fauna. The estate’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of its operations, from the vineyards to the winery. Colline Albelle produces a range of single-vineyard, single-varietal wines that showcase the unique terroir of Riparbella. InBianco (2020): This 100% Vermentino is a refreshing and elegant wine with notes of citrus, floral, and mineral. It’s aged in untoasted barrels for six months, adding complexity and structure without overpowering the delicate fruit flavors. InRosso (2020): This 100% Merlot is a refined and elegant wine with aromas of black cherry, leather, and spice. It’s harvested early to preserve freshness and acidity, resulting in a wine with silky tannins and a long, lingering finish. Serto (Sangiovese): This wine is currently aging and will be released in the future. It’s expected to showcase the classic characteristics of Sangiovese, with notes of red cherry, plum, and earthy undertones. Altenubi (Ciliegiolo): This ancient Tuscan variety is being revived at Colline Albelle. The vineyards are currently undergoing regeneration, and the first wines are expected to be released in the coming years. Halis (Canaiolo Bianco): A rare and almost extinct white grape variety, Canaiolo Bianco is a fascinating discovery for Colline Albelle. The estate is working to preserve and promote this unique grape, which produces wines with delicate floral and citrus notes. Colline Albelle’s commitment to quality extends beyond the vineyards. The estate’s historic villa has been meticulously restored and is now open to visitors, offering a luxurious retreat in the heart of Tuscany. Guests can enjoy fine dining, wine tastings, and guided tours of the vineyards and winery. Colline Albelle offers a glimpse into the authentic Tuscan lifestyle. The estate’s commitment to hospitality, sustainability, and quality makes it a truly special place to visit. Watch the full interview with Julian Reneaud Photos of winery and vineyard courtesy of Julian