Wine News Round-Up
Wine Business (Press Release) – Master Sommelier Andrea Immer Robinson Launches New “Quench” Series
If you are a wine junky like we are, then this looks to be a nice addition to our YouTube viewing. Looking forward to checking this out.
From the Press Release: Andrea Immer Robinson, MS, announces today the launch of a new monthly livestream series, “Quench”, premiering on Wednesday, October 16 at 5:30pm PT/8:30pm ET on her YouTube channel.
The premiere episode of “Quench” will focus on Next-Gen Napa and The Big Six Grapes. If you know these six French classic grapes, “you already know a ton about wine,” according to Andrea. “So, we’ll explore their style profiles and origin stories through top examples from the Napa Valley including Trefethen Riesling, Trois Noix Ryan’s Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Grgich Hills Chardonnay, Ceja Vineyards Carneros Pinot Noir, Frog’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon, and Farella Syrah.”
Wine-Searcher – Wine Marketing Surfs the Youth Edge
Oliver Styles has an article on the French satirical paper Charlie Hebdo, which took a swipe at some wine producers’ marketing tactics to attract a younger audience. How young is too young to target your wine marketing? Evidently, very yong.
From the Article: Now, while Charlie Hebdo clearly has an axe to grind with the domestic wine lobby (and some of the issues therein are particular to France), the gist of it should be taken seriously by all wine communicators. After all, if you’re producing content that would go down perfectly with a 14 year old, should the wine world really be celebrating your contribution to the industry?
I would argue not. In fact, the Charlie Hebdo piece – more than anything I’ve read recently about the need for the wine industry to engage with younger drinkers – put its finger on the awkwardness I feel whenever anyone says “we need to make wine cool”, or the like. The awkwardness is the same as that felt when older people use high school slang.
Decanter – Jura winemaker stunned after thieves seize his 2024 harvest
As if the French haven’t had enough troubles with this years crop, now they have to contend with thieves. Martin Green, reports for Decanter that wine maker Paul Bonin’s entire crop was stolen, with about 1800 pounds of fruit stolen directly from the vines.
From the article: It had already been a challenging year for grape growers in the region, as heavy rainfall, hailstorms and mildew ravaged vineyards across Jura.
Historically, the region’s average production is 80,000 hectolitres per year, but it is expected to fall to around 35,000 hectolitres this year, with experts blaming the climate crisis.
Oregon Wine Press – Que Syrah, Syrah
Tamara Tuner at Oregon Wine Press (a very nice wine magazine that I recommend you check out if you are interested in Oregon wine) discusses the move to Syrah in the region and highlights some winemakers. We have had a few of these, and they can be very good.
From the article: Although Oregon Syrah may not have the same following as Pinot Noir, it’s making waves in the wine world. Savvy consumers discovered our state’s expressions of Syrah emphasize the wine’s purity and elegance. The secret is, the variety performs best in our more moderate climates.
Devoted fans are enchanted by the grape’s distinctive and unique characteristics. High-alcohol fruit bombs from hot growing regions produce jammy, chocolatey, simple wines. Yet, Syrah planted in the proper area runs the gamut from elegant and complex to savory, saline or even sanguine, remaining fruity and floral.
Wine & Winery of the Week
Akash Winery
If you’re looking for an extraordinary wine experience in Temecula Valley, Akash Winery should be at the top of your list. This family-owned winery offers a harmonious blend of modern sophistication and rich tradition, reflected in their expertly crafted wines and the serene beauty of the estate. Founded by the Patel family, Akash Winery is quickly gaining recognition for its exceptional wines, such as the 2019 Reserve Unfiltered Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon. With winemaker Renato Sais at the helm, Akash Winery is setting a new standard in Temecula’s wine scene.
2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape “Télégramme”
Yes, we are going from Temecula to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. This may be a first in wine writing. But here we go: The 2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape “Télégramme,” priced at $64, is the second label of this prestigious estate, but it offers a sophisticated and immensely enjoyable experience that showcases the true essence of the terroir. It’s a wine that exudes balance, complexity, and a distinct sense of place, making it a perfect entry point into the wines of Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe.
Restaurant and Corkage of the Week
Lotus of Siam
We started our quest to visit Wine Spectators’ -13 of the Best Restaurant Wine Lists in Las Vegas – with a visit to the Lotus Of Siam. And it did not disappoint.
Nestled in the heart of Las Vegas, Lotus of Siam stands as a beacon of culinary excellence, offering an unforgettable Thai dining experience. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted with warm hospitality and an ambiance that perfectly blends casual elegance with authentic charm. This renowned restaurant has garnered a loyal following, and it’s easy to see why. With a menu that celebrates the rich and diverse flavors of Northern Thailand, this is a must-visit for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.
Corkage fee is $35.00
