YOUR PASSPORT TO A GLOBAL WINE ADVENTURE
Renowned Industry Experts Lead Multi-Level Seminar Series
New York, NY – January 17, 2012 – As Galileo once stated “Wine is sunlight, held together by water.”
Add a little sunlight to your weekend and treat yourself to a firstclass trip around the world of wine at the 5th Annual New York Wine Expo, March 2nd – 4th. The Grand Tasting offers attendees a chance to sample wines from nearly 175 wineries from around the globe. The Expo is also a savory opportunity to talk directly with wine makers and pick up tips on serving, pricing and selecting the right vintage.
New York Wine Expo is held at the JacobJavits Convention Center in New York City. The latest in wine accessories and specialtyfoods will also be on hand at the Grand Tasting.
“The New York Wine Expo features wines from the greatest wine-producing regions of the world,” said Ed Hurley, New York Wine Expo Show Director. “But the Expo also includes the biggest trends of the year ahead from smaller local wineries, to organic wines to off beat varietals that you’ll want to pour time and again.”
Several seminars will take place throughout the weekend led by industry experts. While more are sure to be added, those currently on the calendar include:
Wine 101: Taste Like a Pro with Wine Spectator
Friday, March 2, 6:00 – 7:00 pm and Saturday, March 3, 12:30 – 1:30 pm
Explore grapes and wine styles as you taste eight wines from around the world, learn the tasting techniques used by pros and build a wine appreciation framework that you will use for the rest of your life. It’s a lively seminar, hosted by Wine Spectator’s Director of Education Gloria Maroti Frazee.
Wine Spectator Presents…Portugal – Discover a World of Difference
Friday, March 2, 8:30 – 9:30 pm
One of the world’s most traditional wine countries is seriously stepping up its game and using indigenous grape varieties from diverse regions to produce delicious wines. Explore Portugal and taste for yourself why wine critics are excited about Portugal’s new wave wines. Hosted by Wine Spectator’s Director of Education Gloria Maroti Frazee.
The Rhône Valley: A River Runs Through It…with Mark Oldman
Saturday, March 3, 1:00 – 2:00 pm
Renowned wine speaker, author, and PBS TV personality Mark Oldman gives you an insider’s view of the wine of France’s celebrated Rhône Valley. Mark clues you in to a wide variety of Rhone wines that will make you the envy of your wine-passionate friends.
For tickets, updated seminar schedule and event information visit www.NewYorkWineExpo.com or call 800-544-1660.
Note: Sunday, March 4 is dedicated to trade representatives. Liquor licensees from throughout the region are invited to attend on Sunday along with attendees of the co-located International Restaurant & Foodservice Show of New York. The Wine Expo is not open to the general public on Sunday.
Question: Where can you find the unlikely but perfect combination of a friendly neighborhood pub and a welcoming family restaurant?
Answer: J. P. Doyle’s Restaurant and Public House on Beekman Avenue in Sleepy Hollow.
Tuesdays at 7:30pm its TRIVIA QUIZ night at J.P. DOYLE’S Restaurant and public house, Bring your friends and form a team for a very friendly and fun competition! Bob reads off the questions & each team writes down the answers, it’s a team effort! With prizes for the winning team and additional prizes when the BONUS ROUND QUESTIONS come around.
Each game includes an entertaining mix of questions! Of course there are the standard categories such as History, Geography, Sports & Literature. But we also have other fun categories such as TV, Movies, Pop culture and General Knowledge.
At the bar or in the dining room there’s a dazzling array of food specials to savor: the divine macaroni and cheese with either shrimp or cheddar and coleslaw, served with homemade barbecue sauce. The regulars love Chef Bell’s shepherd’s pie, his New York strip steak smothered in sautéed Vidalia onion served with roasted mashed potatoes, the Grilled Filet Mignon or juicy Rib-eye, his Chicken Scarpariello, a full rack of Barbecued Ribs, pan-seared Salmon Steak or Tuna Teriyaki.
And, of course, excellent pub fare wouldn’t be complete without fish and chips — crispy beer-battered and lightly fried fish fillets served with tartar sauce.
There’s definitely something for everyone at J.P. Doyle’s, and customers always enjoy a brew from Doyle’s extensive beer list. J.P. Doyle’s, is located at 48 Beekman Avenue, Sleepy Hollow, give them a call if you have questions or need to reserve for a large party at: 914-631-3015
Consumers Live the Moment as the First Bottles of Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau Are Uncorked from Coast to Coast
New York – November 17, 2011 – It is the ultimate expression of living in the moment and the art of having a good time: More than 100 Nouveau Expression parties and events are being held within 24 hours around the country – all to celebrate the official arrival of Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau. By French law, Beaujolais Nouveau, a fresh, young red wine made from the Gamay grape and bottled at the end of harvest, may be released at one minute past midnight on the third Thursday in November – known as “Nouveau Day.” In 2011, that day is November 17.
The biggest celebration started just before midnight on November 16th in New York at a Nouveau Eve Art Party at Manhattan’s SIR Stage 37. With his signature dance moves, hip hop artist Pop Master Fabel ushered in a graffiti covered vintage Cadillac delivering Franck Duboeuf, co-proprietor of Les Vins Georges Duboeuf and son of founder Georges, and the first case of Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau before an audience of several hundred. Driving the car was Brooklyn graffiti artist Kaves whose one-of-a-kind image graces the 2011 Duboeuf Nouveau label. Once inside the party just after midnight, Franck opened the first bottle, took the first taste, and proclaimed “2011 will be a great millésime in Beaujolais – complex, serious, solid and rich in delicious flavors”. He announced that “2011 marks the 60th anniversary of the first Nouveau vintage in 1951- truly a remarkable history!”
The party, which benefited Citymeals-on-Wheels, continued into the wee morning hours with the unveiling of a one-of-kind art exhibit curated by Kaves, which featured a selection of his work and that of the finalists and grand prize winner of the national Nouveau Expression Be Heard Art Contest. On hand was grand prize winner, Becky Suriano of Phillipsburg, N.J., whose exquisite hand-painted art wine glasses were used for the official “first taste.”
The party did not stop there. Franck Duboeuf and exclusive U.S. importers Bill and Peter Deutsch, Co-owners of W.J. Deutsch & Sons, hosted an arrival lunch for VIPs on the 17th. Duboeuf continued on to Sherry Lehmann to greet customers.
“Nouveau Day Thursday is a festive celebration much like Mardi Gras Fat Tuesday. Here we celebrate the end of harvest with the release of Nouveau,” said Franck Duboeuf. “We also like to think of Nouveau Day as the start of the holiday season when families and friends come together over a festive meal. Beaujolais Nouveau, with its low tannins and fresh ripe red berry taste is the perfect holiday wine to share with friends. It is versatile, food friendly and affordable.” Nouveau’s suggested retail price is $10.
“This year’s theme, Nouveau Expression, celebrates creativity, individuality and self expression. It’s a fun, vibrant new way for Duboeuf to connect with its Beaujolais Nouveau consumers through art and for our consumers to connect with each other. Each of the parties held around the country had its own unique expression of the Nouveau spirit,” said Peter Deutsch, CEO of W.J. Deutsch & Sons.
And how was Nouveau Day celebrated coast to coast? Here are some highlights:
San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter hosted “Beaujolais Nouveau Urban Splash” with graffiti artists painting and guests enjoying tastes from five different restaurants along with their Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau. The event benefited The Gaslamp Quarter Association.
Portland, Oregon’s renowned Heathman Hotel presented a “Beaujolais Nouveau Fête” grand buffet in collaboration with the local French American Chamber of Commerce.
More than 20 Denver chefs competed in a Nouveau Expression culinary challenge at the Omni Interlocken Resort. Proceeds from the event benefited the Rocky Mountain French American Chamber of Commerce.
Milwaukee DJ Marcus Doucette, Alliance Française Milwaukee and Georges Duboeuf hosted “La Fête du Beaujolais Nouveau” at the Intercontinental Hotel with wine, food, body artists and live art installations — all to benefit the Alliance’s programs for children.
In St. Louis, guests enjoyed a live art show by Jennifer Hayes and live body art from Art Monster with their Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau and nibbles at 2720 Cherokee presented by Georges Duboeuf and The Riverfront Times.
In Manchester, N.H., Georges Duboeuf, The New Hampshire Institute of Art and the New Hampshire Food Bank hosted a Nouveau Expression Art Party and silent auction, with a live art piece created during the evening, all to benefit the New Hampshire Food Bank.
Annapolis Mayor Joshua J. Cohen arrived by boat along Ego Alley at the city dock carrying the first case of Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau for a Nouveau Expression party at Red Red Wine Bar.
In Dallas, Miss Texas greeted guests at a Nouveau Expression party held at the Omni Dallas Hotel presented by Georges Duboeuf and the French American Chamber of Commerce.
Savannah’s Garibaldi Café held its annual Nouveau Masquerade Ball with live music and a seated dinner.
“Nashville does Nouveau”held at the Overlook Building featured live music, Georges Duboeuf Nouveau and hors d’oeuvres all to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Sandestin, Florida’s Grand Park at Grand Boulevard hosted local chefs who prepared signature dishes and then competed in a live art challenge (move over “Top Chef”!) – all to benefit the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation.
 Kaves; Bill Deutsch, Chairman, W.J. Deutsch & Sons; Franck Duboeuf, Co-owner, Les Vins Georges Duboeuf; Peter Deutsch, CEO, W.J. Deutsch & Sons.
 Kaves; Franck Duboeuf, Co-owner, Les Vins Georges Duboeuf; Peter Deutsch, CEO, W.J. Deutsch & Sons.
For a complete list of all parties:  Georges Duboeuf  @GeorgesDuboeuf #NouveauDayW.J. Deutsch and Sons is the exclusive U.S. importer for Les Vins Georges Duboeuf.
Valencia has many indigenous varietals in the likes of Monastrell and Bobal and its wines are becoming known all over the World. Valencia is also a choice destination where besides wine, you can tour the five oceans in one single morning, and there are buildings that look like they came from another planet, cars race through the streets at 300 kilometers an hour, lions live in freedom and all streets lead to the sea.
Wednesday, November 16th – It all happened at La Fonda Del Sol (in the MetLife Building) at 44th Street and Vanderbilt in New York City. Wines from VALENCIA were introduced to trade professionals with a tasting guided by master Sommelier Catherine Fallis. Catherine is founder and president of Planet Grape® LLC (www.planetgrape.com), see her dramatizing and keeping everyone’s interest as she stands by Ed McCarthy, author of Champagne for Dummies and co-author of Wine For Dummies.
The tasting had some indigenous varietals in the likes of Monastrell and Bobal, distinguished for their liveliness and freshness and a Semillon from El Villar, XIMO which was well balanced with persistent acidity with finish that seemed to burst and sparkle on the palate. An excellent Tempranillo from El Villar, Luna de Mar had a nicely designed label, the wine was fresh and vibrant with a touch of vanilla from the french oak and very well balanced and at a good price. Both wines from El Villar were very impressive for the taste, whilethe labels were graphically attractive. What impressed me the most about both wines was the fact that we were dealing with a single varietal, rather than a meritage.
Cherubino Valsangiacomo Bodega had two interesting wines, a Marqués de Caro Tempranillo that for the price taste equation was excellent unoaked with a great finish and the big brother Marques de Caro Crianza a blend of Bobal, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz excellent wine and again on target when it came to the price/taste equation $13.99 retail is well worth the money. I found the wine to be elegant and powerful slightly tannic at the finish, making it an excellent choice as a food friendly wine but definitely not a wine you want to drink more of a glass of if not accompamied by food.
The show stoppers were the Venta del Pueto nº 12, from Anecoop, a magic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Merlot and Syrah aged for 12 months, the fruit aromas and the vanilla from the oak blend the layers of flavor to perfection making this clean yet intense wine a great choice with or without food. Perfectly balanced with a persistent finish the wine keeps asking for a next sip, retails at around $25.
From Bodegas Enguera located in the southwest of the Province of Valencia, in the River Clariano district, which comes under the ‘Valencia’ Designation of Origin, Megala, a blend of Monastrell and Syrah was the true winner when it comes to taste/price, it resells for around $23 and once you taste it you’ll know why I think its worth every penny. Monastrell was introduced by the Phoenicians and later on arrived in France and took the name Mourvèdre. Perfectly structured and harmonious, this wine delights the palate with perfect structure and unequaled balance. Aged 14 months this wine is an intrigue of fruity aromas yet clean and well rounded shedding new light on this old varietal.
 José R. Pasqual - Export Manager for Anecoop talks about his 12 months aged, Venta del Pueto nº 12
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Chiboust, Presents a Special Dinner with German Wines – Well Beyond Fruity Riesling
Hosted by:
Laura Williamson, Master Sommelier
and
Rudi Wiest Selections
Wednesday November 16th
5 Course Delectable Autumn Prixe-Fixe Menu
includes 7 Very Special Wines ranging from
barely off dry Riesling, to dry and complex whites and fine red wines
$95 pp – Seatings available 6:30, 7:00, 7:30, 8:00, 8:30 pm – Reservations Required
CALL: 914-703-6550
Laura Williamson was encouraged to pursue the Master Sommelier accreditation by her mentors Wayne
Belding and Sally Mohr of the Boulder Wine Merchant and achieved this coveted distinction of which only 78
Americans (including just 13 women) had attained prior to her success in 2005. She is currently an active
member of the Court of Master Sommeliers, the grading body for aspiring candidates. She also holds the
prestigious title of Certified Wine Educator and achieved this feat in 2002 when
only approximately 100 others had previously.
Currently, she is Vice-President of Sales nationally for Rudi Wiest Selections, the top German Importer in the
US for the past 30 years, and assists Rudi in managing this prestigious accumulation of Germany’s “who’s
who,” a formidable list of second-to-none German producers. She artfully preaches nationally the merits of
dry wine from Germany including the food-friendly aspect of this mesmerizing style and continually educates
sommeliers and trade about the modern, “New Face of Germany.”
She also presently co-owns Dove Mountain Grill in Marana, Arizona, home to the prestigious annual PGA
Accenture Golf Tournament.
Rudi Wiest Selections is a leading importer of fine German wines in the United States market. Since 1978 its
sole focus has been rebuilding the image of legendary Germany wine estates through education of consumers
and persons in the wine trade alike. Rudi and his team are committed to giving the best service and
information regarding the selection of fine German wine. Visiting Germany two to three times a year, the
principals personally maintain relationships with every estate and exhaustively involve themselves with the
selection process. Our commitment assures only the finest wines earn the Rudi Wiest Selections quality seal.
Chiboust and John Sarofeen of Grape Expectations Wine Shop have teamed up
to make these wines available for immediate purchase or pre-order
Settled beneath the shoulder of the breathtaking Shawangunk Ridge, New Paltz shines as one of the jewels of Ulster County. Visitors come to New Paltz for a variety of reasons: to swim in glacial lakes, cycle on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, soak up the region’s rich history and culture, sample the seasonal bounty of New Paltz’s many farms, orchards, and wineries, enjoy the sights and scents of gorgeous flowering gardens and delicious meals eaten al fresco, climb unique rock faces, take bracing hikes and take in New Paltz’s spectacular views.
Celebrate New Paltz’s long and bountiful agricultural history at the region’s myriad farms, farm markets and wineries. Pick your own strawberries, raspberries, apples, peaches and pumpkins in season, feast on baked goods fresh from the oven, and be sure to pick up some goodies to savor at home. Sample world-renowned Hudson Valley wines on the Shawangunk Wine Trail, composed of 10 family-owned wineries, all proud of their well crafted reds and whites, ranging from dry to sweet. Oenophiles will find award-winning vinifera and French/American varietals and blends alongside sparkling wines, beautifully made local fruit wines and much more.
New Paltz is arguably best known around the world for its outdoor attractions, and for good reason. The Shawangunk Ridge offers a host of trail options for hikers and bicyclists with some of the best views in the Hudson Valley. Bonticou Crag in the Mohonk Preserve, Skytop on the grounds of the world-renowned, 140-year-old Mohonk Mountain House resort, Awosting Falls in the Minnewaska State Park Preserve and the Ice Caves in Sam’s Point Preserve are just a taste of what the Shawangunk Ridge has to offer. For rock climbers, ‘The Gunks’ are the single busiest climbing destination in North America, with some 50,000 technical climbers visiting the area each year to scale roughly 1200 documented climbing routes. The less adventurous can see the climbers in action from the Mohonk Preserve’s Undercliff/Overcliff trail.
 CONSORZIO DEL VINO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO OVERVIEW
The Consorzio Del Vino Brunello di Montalcino was born in 1967 right after the Denominazione di Origine Controllata (D.O.C.) status was awarded Brunello wines. A group of producers founded the Consortium to uphold and protect the high standards of all four denomination wines of Montalcino: Brunello di Montalcino, Rosso di Montalcino, Moscadello di Montalcino and Sant’Antimo. The Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino is the only Consortium in all of Italy with 100% membership. All of Brunello’s 250 producers are registered members; of those members, 200 are also bottlers. Brunello is obtained exclusively from Sangiovese grapes (locally known as “Brunello” grapes) grown within the territory of the Montalcino township. The name Brunello can be applied only to the wine produced and bottled within the township of Montalcino (the production area was delimited in 1932 by the Commission of the Ministry of Agriculture). Brunello di Montalcino was the first Italian wine to have obtained the Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin (D.O.C.G.) by Decree of the President of the Republic on July 1st 1980. Brunello must be aged a minimum of two years in oak and one year in the bottle; it must be released no sooner than five years after the harvest. Brunello is a limpid ruby color, leaning towards garnet. Its perfumes are intense, complex, and evoke red berries, and earth, as well as the sweet spicy aromas that come from wood and ageing. Brunello’s alcohol content is a minimum of 12.5% and sometimes as high as 13.5%.Brunello di Montalcino can undergo long aging, improving as time goes on from a minimum of 10 years up to 30 years, but it can be kept even longer. Before the wine can be released, it must be aged in oak for two years, and one year in the bottle; or two years in oak and three years in the bottle for riservas, which only happen in select vintages.
The elegance and harmony of its body allow for this wine to be accompanied by dishes such as red meats, furred and feathered game, and mushrooms and truffles. Brunello is also an excellent accompanying wine for cheeses: seasoned tommes, Tuscan pecorino and complex cheeses. The Wine Spectator selected Brunello Riserva Biondi Santi 1955 as the only Italian wine among the 12 great wines of the 20th century. The wine of Montalcino is in the august company of Château Margaux 1900, Château Mouton Rothschild 1945, Château Petrus 1961, Penfolds Grange 1955, Château Cheval Blanc 1947, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti 1937, Château d’Yquem 1921. Since the war to date, the “five-star” years have been the following: 1945, 1955, 1964, 1970, 1975, 1987, 1988, 1990, 1995, 1997, 2004, 2006, 2007.
Brunello di Montalcino is not the only enological treasure from the hills of Montalcino. The Rosso di Montalcino, Sant’Antimo and Moscadello are Montalcino’s three D.O.C. wines. Rosso di Montalcino is also 100% Sangiovese. It is meant to be drunk younger and fresher. It is a superb value for the oenophile. Moscadello di Montalcino is a sweet white wine made from Muscat produced in still, sparking and late harvest types. Il Sant’Antimo takes its name from the famous medieval abbey situated a few kilometres from Montalcino, that, according to legend, was founded by Charlemagne, Sant’Antimo is made in both red and white wines, as well as a Vin Santo, or dessert wine,that can also be red or white. Vin Santo Occhio di Pernice (Eye of the Partridge) is made with red grapes.
BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2004-2005 VINTAGE REPORT 2004 VINTAGE
Weather conditions- Throughout the whole period of the development of the vine – from April to the end of August – the weather was excellent. It was marked by alternating rain and sunshine, at exactly the right moments for the needs of the vineyards. The persisting spring showers brought about a considerable accumulation of water in the land and this reserve helped the plants overcome the summer heat. July and August were hot and sunny but there were days of cooler temperatures and even some rain. The benefits of the balanced weather of the year 2004 were added to the characteristics of the soil and the geographic position of the territory. The harvest took place in the normal period, neither before nor later than usual and went on until after the 20th of October.
Characteristics of the product- maximum levels of quality, wines with body and structure, but at the same time well balanced and elegant, products generally destined for a long period of ageing.
Number of stars – five
2005 VINTAGE
Weather conditions – The period of July and August was quite hot and sunny, despite the presence of days with cooler temperatures and a few rainy days. Generally speaking, balanced weather conditions allowed for a very good development towards the end of August. The rains that started during the first days of September had an effect on the grapes and delayed the harvesting. The harvest was good however helped also by the return of the sun during the second half of September. The producers selected the grapes, leaving aside those that were not perfect and diversifying the production. Thus they were able to produce Brunello di Montalcino with the grapes that had the most polyphenols and the highest sugar content, and the grapes that were less structured and more fruity were set aside for the production of Rosso di Montalcino.
Characteristics of the product: excellent quality, elegant wines with a good body and structure that can be destined for a medium-long period of aging.
2006 VINTAGE
2006 was a great year for Brunello, a year that will figure among the best of the last decade, according to the experts who have assigned the maximum grade of “five stars” to the vintage. This rating was conferred by the Consorzio after rigorous evaluation (chemical, physical and organoleptic) and observations on the weather conditions of the year by a special committee made up of twenty important enologists.
From April to June a period of persistent rainfall resulted in a considerable accumulation of water underground, which proved extremely useful during the summer heat. The month of July was very hot and
sunny, with an excellent development of the grapes and the right phenological phases of the vine. The month of August was less hot than usual. The first part of September was very hot and sunny and ensured the final evolution of the grapes into a complete and balanced fruition. The second half of September began with some rainfall, causing a distinct weather change and the beginning of Autumn. The situation very soon became stable once more, enabling the start of the harvesting operations.
The resulting wines are rich and have ample poliphenolic components. These are wines with good body and structure that can be kept for a long time.
To celebrate the 2006 Brunello the American designer Adam Tihany, a great enthusiast of Montalcino wine, created the traditional ceramic plaque which represents the vintage and its corresponding mark in stars, to be placed on the walls of the 13th century town hall palace. Adam Tihany, born of Rumanian parents, brought up in Israel, graduated in architecture in Italy and settled in New York, literally invented the profession of “restaurant designer”, making internationalism the distinctive mark of his work and designing the concept of the interior spaces of around 300 shops, hotels and restaurants: from those of the Maccioni family to those of Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Thomas Keller. They include the intense atmospheres of The “Remi” Restaurant in New York (of which Tihany is co-owner) the “Aureole” (inside the Mandalay Bar Resort of Las Vegas), and the D.D.L. Food Show in New York. Tihany decided to dedicate to Brunello, one of his favorite wines, a work which will be added to those created in previous years by famous artists such as stylists Ottavio Missoni, Roberto Cavalli and Miuccia Prada, painter Sandro Chia, photographer Oliviero Toscani, ski champion Deborah Compagnoni, designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, actor Peter Weller.
BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO : “An Exceptional Harvest in 2010”
Montalcino, November 2010 – The 2010 harvest in Montalcino, distinct from other areas of Tuscany, is proving one of the best in recent years. This is the opinion shared by experts and producers, who, two
months before the harvest, had sketched a first forecast of the crop and are now commenting on what Brunello 2010 could be, echoing the “forecasts of an excellent level of quality that we had pre-announced
last October” from the President of the Consorzio.
The year 2010 will be remembered in Montalcino for the delay in the commencement of the budding, owing to below-average spring temperatures and frequent rains that characterized this period, a situation that subsequently favored strong vegetative development and provoked some problems in the setting of the flowers, which caused a slight cutback in production of around 10%. In this phase the steps taken to combat the development of diseases (particularly peronospora and oidium) were crucial in a situation like that of Montalcino, which is made up of mainly medium-sized and small farms. They achieved excellent results.
The summer period was marked by good, stable weather, with only moderate rain during August that mitigated the heat and favored a recovery of the phenological phase, even though the beginning of the veraison happened around ten days late, compared to the average of the last ten years.
Sangiovese showed all its capacity for recovery during the ripening period of the grapes when the weather conditions remained favorable, allowing a harmonious development of the phenolic and sugar ripening.
The wines obtained in this harvest – begun with delays that went from a minimum of 8 to a maximum of 14 days – show extraordinary characteristics for Sangiovese, both under the organoleptic profile (currently still in its evolutionary phase), and under that of the parameters of composition, which – apart from an excellent level of alcohol content, in some cases rather high – present extremely high levels of total polyphenols, anthocyanins and extract rarely found in this variety.
The strength of this terroir, together with the competence of the viticulturists, is a winning combination. Both experts and producers agree that the year 2010 is an excellent vintage. The President of the Consorzio Ezio Rivella states, “The forecasts of an excellent-quality vintage have been confirmed.” According to Attilio Scienza, Professor of Viticulture and Enology Studies at the Faculty of Agronomy at the University of Milan, 2010 is a five-star vintage.
So, how did the effects of unfavorable weather conditions not spoil the integrity of Montalcino wines? Professor Scienza states, “The answer is to be found in a simple observation: Sangiovese vineyards have a
vegetative-productive balance that allows them to amortize most efficiently the strain and negative effects of excessive rains on the grapes. This balance is due to various factors, some are the result of a pedoclimactic environment extremely propitious for wines that age for a long time. The drainage of soil, their richness in skeleton, and their low chemical fertility enable a moderated development of the vegetation, through temperature variations between night and day. Other factors include the know-how of viticulturists, who have always followed two fundamental principles in the production of Brunello: their fidelity to the territory and their honor as producers.
“There are few places in the world so famous for the quality of its wines as Montalcino, where it is possible to see vineyards so well-tended and grapes with such regular maturity, even in difficult years. The proof is that a vineyard correctly balanced with the territory that hosts it has an inherent capacity to react to any climactic injury.”
CONSORZIO DEL VINO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO – BIOS
Sir Ezio Rivella, President of the Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino
Sir Ezio Rivella was born in Castagnole Lanze (Province of Asti) on March 30th, 1933. He studied oenology and wine-making at the School of Alba where he was assigned the role of Assistant Professor. In 1957 he moved to Castelli Romani, Rome, where he founded and managed the Company Enoconsult, specialized in the study of production technology, plant planning and development and also in management consulting for wine companies.
In 1977 Sir Rivella founded Banfi SpA. He created a unique wine company with a property area of 7,413 acres, 1,976 of which are vineyards, cultivated thanks to a large land reclamation and soil treatment, besides a wine cellar that is an example of technological organization and a refurbished medieval castle. The Company produces a highly valuable range of wines and has an average of 250 employees. As a result, in 1985 Sir Rivella was awarded the title of Cavaliere del Lavoro (Knight of Labor). Sir Rivella has been President of the Associazione Enologi Italiani (Italian Enologist Association) for 12 years and President of the Associazione Mondiale degli Enologi (Worldwide Enologist Association) for nine years. In 2000 after many years at Banfi, Sir Rivella left in order to take care of his own vineyards in Tuscany and in Piedmont. In 2001 he was elected President of the Confederazione Italiana della Vite e del Vino, “Unione Italiana Vini” (Italian Vine and Wine Confederation, “Italian Wine Union”), a role in which he served until 2004.
From 1993 to 1998 Sir Rivella was the President of the Comitato Nazionale dei Vini a Denominazione di Origine (Denomination of Controlled Origin Wine National Committee). For six years he has been Vice President of the Organisation International de la Vigne e du Vin (International Organization of Vine and Wine) of Paris and presided over the Group of Experts on ”Social Aspects of wine consumption.”
Sir Rivella is also the author of wine journals and scientific publications and a member of the Accademia Italiana della Vite e del Vino (Italian Vine and Wine Academy), of the Académie International du Vin (International Wine Academy) and many other Academies and Organizations of this field. Sir Rivella has been honored with many prizes, such as Grappolo D’Oro, Giovanni Dalmasso, Paolo Desana, Premio Masi per la Civiltà del Vino.
Stefano Campatelli has been Director of the Consorzio Del Vino Brunello di Montalcino since 1990. He graduated in Agrarian Science at the Faculty of the University of Florence in 1983. In 1989 he obtained his Masters in Enology at the Faculty of Agrarian Science in Piacenza at the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore. He was accorded the title of Enologist by the Ministry of Agrarian Policies. He is a Counsellor of the Board of the Federdoc (National Federation of the Consortiums for the Safe-guarding of Wines) with headquarters in Rome.
The ever-growing movement toward green practices and organics has been steadily increasing in all realms of agriculture, and in the wine industry. Green farming spans from sustainable, to organic and to the more holistic biodynamic approach.
INTEGRATED VITICULTURE: Also called sustainable farming, this is the least stringent area of “green farming” and the most widespread. Here a wide variety of agricultural practices are used which are ecologically sound but are also economically viable. Farmers have more flexibility and will generally recycle, conserve water, use renewable resources, and minimize the use of chemical products, but chemical products can, in fact, be used in sustainable farming.
ORGANIC VITICULTURE: Organic farming is similar to sustainable (or integrated) in striving to conserve soil and water and use renewable resources, but it has some important additional rules and regulations. Organic farming prohibits the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and chemical-based fertilizers around all crops. Here all produce is high in nutrition, obtained with minimal use of auxiliary energy, and based on cultivation technology which has a minimal affect on the environment. There are many degrees of certified organic throughout the world, varying again by nation and by region.
BIODYNAMIC VITICULTURE: Biodynamic farming is the most complicated philosophy of “green farming”. It is more of a holistic and mystical approach to farming, in which the entire wine estate becomes a self-sustaining, self-regulating ecosystem. Biodynamic treats “the farm as a living organism which is connected to the dynamic rhythms of the earth and atmosphere…working with the living soil and the invisible energies of nature”. Similar to organic farming, biodynamic farming eliminates all chemicals and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Biodynamic farmers also follow the natural rhythms of the earth and the moon’s lunar phases to increase the “life force” of the soil and, thus, create a wine that is completely authentic to the site. The needs of the farm are met completely from within; using 100% recycled organic waste, along with incorporation of various indigenous vegetation and prey/predator animals to make the estate complete.
Grape growers who have adopted biodynamic methods noted stronger, clearer and more vibrant tastes, as well as wines that remain drinkable longer. Biodynamic wines are more floral, biodynamic producers also note that their methods tend to result in better balance in growth, where the sugar production in the grapes coincides with physiological ripeness, resulting in a wine with the correct balance of flavor and alcohol content, even with changing climate conditions. In a blind tasting of 10 pairs of biodynamic and conventionally-made wines, conducted by Fortune and judged by seven wine experts including a Master of Wine and head sommeliers, nine of the biodynamic wines were judged superior to their conventional counterpart. The biodynamic wines “were found to have better expressions of terroir, the way in which a wine can represent its specific place of origin in its aroma, flavor, and texture.
Sources: Wikipedia, Vias Importers, Fortune
“It’s about living in the moment and loving life” – Kaves
New York- October 7, 2011: It’s a bold new pairing for Beaujolais. French wine producer Georges Duboeuf has collaborated with renowned Brooklyn artist Michael McLeer, a.k.a. Kaves, to create Nouveau Expression, a celebration of creativity, self expression and enjoying the moment, to coincide with Duboeuf’s release of the 2011 Beaujolais Nouveau.
A multi-talented artist specializing in graffiti, tattoo, music and film, Kaves designed a unique, graffiti-inspired urban celebration for the 2011 label. The Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau will be officially uncorked at one minute past midnight on Thursday, November 17, at a party in New York hosted by Kaves, Les Vins Georges Duboeuf Co-Proprietor Franck Duboeuf and Importer Peter Deutsch, CEO of W.J. Deutsch & Sons. Around the country, similar Nouveau Expression parties and celebrations will take place on the third Thursday in November when, by French law, Beaujolais Nouveau may officially be released.
Kaves is also leading a search for creative individuals to share their talents through the Nouveau Expression-Be Heard online art contest. The works of ten finalists will be exhibited at the Nouveau Expression Art Exhibit and uncorking party in New York. Submissions are accepted until October 15 on Georges Duboeuf’s Facebook fan page.
So what inspired the young artist from Brooklyn?
“I wanted to create a celebration in a neighborhood that could be anywhere in the world with bright energy and a positive vibe,” said Kaves. “The corner of LIVE and LOVE is where I want to be. It’s a place where people live in the moment and love life. Beaujolais Nouveau is a celebration of friends and wine. My painting is a celebration of life. The two are a perfect pair.”
And what inspired the soft spoken French wine producer from Beaujolais to select a street smart graffiti artist to be his creative muse for Nouveau Expression?
“We wanted to expose people to the celebration of Nouveau and capture the wine’s essence and the energy and unique perspective of Kaves’ art seemed to be an ideal vehicle,” said Franck Duboeuf, Georges’ son and co-proprietor of Les Vins Georges Duboeuf. “Art in any medium is a passion for my father, Georges. And Kaves, like Georges, is a down-to-earth guy who loves life, is proud of where he is from and is a man of many creative expressions.”
Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau is a fresh and fruity red wine made from the local Gamay grape, best served lightly chilled. Nouveau is a very popular wine for serving during the holidays; its ripe berry aromas and flavors are food-friendly and versatile with many dishes. The 2011 vintage retails for $10 a bottle.
Fans can follow Kaves, view Nouveau Expression submissions and share party tips for enjoying Beaujolais Nouveau on Georges Duboeuf’s Twitter page #NouveauDay and on Georges Duboeuf’s Facebook fan page.
Hear from Kaves on Youtube.com:
Be Heard – Part One Be Heard – Part Two Be Heard – Part Three
Become a fan of Georges Duboeuf @GeorgesDuboeuf
About Les Vins Georges Duboeuf
Georges Duboeuf currently represents over 400 winegrowers in the Beaujolais region. A self-made entrepreneur, he formed “Les Vins Georges Duboeuf” in 1964, which he now oversees with his son, Franck. Today, Les Vins Georges Duboeuf includes wines from Beaujolais, Mâconnais and Southern France. The wines are renowned for their quality, value and consistency. They are sold in 120 countries throughout the world.
Georges Duboeuf wines are exclusively imported in the U.S. by W.J. Deutsch & Sons.
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