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New Mason-Dixon Wine Trail Announced!

September 15, 2011 – 5:06 pm

Today September 15, 2011 the new Mason-Dixon Wine Trail was announced at Naylor Wine Cellars. The press conference was held in the beautiful outdoor pavilion behind the Naylor winery and tasting room. While people were gathering for the press conference the clouds let loose with a heavy down pour. During the announcement the sun began shining through the clouds. Was this a sign of good things to come for the new Wine Trail?

The Mason-Dixon Wine Trail currently includes 12 Pennsylvania and 2 Maryland wineries. The trail is unique because it includes wineries from two states.

At the press conference the importance of tourism and agriculture in Pennsylvania was stressed. York County Commissioner Doug Hoke, noted, “Agriculture and tourism are Pennsylvania’s top two industries.”

Carl Helrich, owner, winemaker and grape grower from Allegro Vineyards, said that the “wine industry is the sexy side of farming.” Visitors can see the beauty of the rolling hillsides in this wine region.

Special events planned by the Mason-Dixon Wine Trail include “Wine Just Off the Vine Event” in November and the “Tour De Tanks” event in March.

Wineries on the new Mason-Dixon Wine Trail include Adams County Winery, Allegro Vineyards, Boordy Vineyards, Cullari Vineyards & Winery, Fiore Winery, Four Springs Winery, Hauser Estate Winery, Hummingbird Ridge Winery, Moon Dancer Vineyard & Winery, Naylor Wine Cellars, Reid’s Orchard & Winery, Tamanend Winery, The Vineyard at Hershey, and West Hanover Winery. The Vineyard at Hershey will open in February 2012.

For more information visit the new Mason-Dixon Wine Trail website.

Cheers!

Kathy

By Kathy | Posted in Wine News/Commentary | Tagged , , , | Comments (0)

2012 International Wine Tourism Conference

September 14, 2011 – 1:02 am

The 2012 International Wine Tourism Conference takes place January 30 to February 1. The preconference events are on Sunday, January 29.  The Wine Tourism Workshop is Thursday, February 2. According to the IWINETC website, “The conference and workshop will bring together wine and travel lovers and professionals from around the world to discuss, reflect on and develop their ideas re wine and culinary tourism.”

Only 96 Early Bird tickets are left for the 2012 International Wine Tourism Conference in Perugia, Italy.  Until September 30, 2011 the price is 195 Euros plus a small fee. The conference fee includes talks, after-conference program, coffee breaks and lunches.

This conference will be the 4th annual International Wine Tourism Conference. Last year the conference was in Portugal.  This year the conference takes place in Italy’s Perugia, a beautiful medieval town.

After September 30, the fee will be 250 Euros. If you are planning to attend the Wine Tourism Conference, now is the time to purchase your tickets.

Facebook fans can like the IWINETC page at http://www.facebook.com/winetravel.

Cheers! Kathy

 

By Kathy | Posted in Winery Events | Tagged , , , , , , , | Comments (0)

Make Your Own Barrel of Wine at Vint Hill Craft Winery in Virginia

September 13, 2011 – 1:02 am

Vint Hill Craft Winery in northern Virginia offers wine enthusiasts the opportunity to learn more about wine while making their own barrel of wine. Vint Hill opened in 2009 in an historical renovated barn and has the latest winemaking equipment including two sorting tables.

The winemaking equipment, lab and barrel room are located on the main floor. Visitors to the winery can observe the winemaking process from the Teaching and Tasting Balcony on the second floor which also has a wine tasting counter, tables and chairs. The Balcony is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Anyone who chooses to make a barrel of wine at Vint Hill has many choices to make including type and kind of barrel even the option of using acacia rather than oak. Grapes can be sourced from Virginia, Washington or California and many other choices can be made during the winemaking process.

For those who have already experienced winemaking at Vint Hill, the winery is now offering special individualized sessions for those who want to learn more.

Check the Vint Hill Craft Winery website in Vint Hill, Virginia to discover all they have to offer. Stop by the tasting gallery and taste some of the wines that have been produced at Vint Hill.

Cheers, Kathy

By Kathy | Posted in Wine News/Commentary | Tagged , , , , , | Comments (0)

The Common Elements of Wine and Olive Oil

September 12, 2011 – 7:03 am

Many wine lovers talk about wine  and enjoy discussing where the grapes are from, the variety of grape, the nuances and the aftertaste of the wine. The same can be said of olive oils. There are numerous types of olive trees. Some olive oil making facilities concentrate on producing single varietal olive oils, just like winemakers may decide to produce vineyard specific wines. Olive oil nuances are also affected by the climate, weather, soil, and geography just like wine. Even the manufacturing process can affect the quality of the olive oil.

Anyone planning to travel to Italy will want to take the opportunity to visit an olive oil producing facility. Fèlsina in Castelnuovo Berardenga SI, Italy offers beautiful views of olive groves and produces several single varietal olive oils. Olive oil tastings are available. Call ahead to make an appointment.

Olive oils are produced in many countries including the United States, predominantly in California. The next time you travel for vacation or business take some time to find out about the olive oil production in the region. More information about olive oil production and tasting is available.

If you have the opportunity to do an olive tasting at a festival or store, take a few minutes to do so.

Cheers, Kathy

By Kathy | Posted in Wine News/Commentary | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Comments (0)

Open House at Tin Lizzie Wineworks

September 11, 2011 – 4:45 pm

Last week I wrote about Tin Lizzie Wineworks in Maryland. I just learned that Dave Zuchero, owner of Tin Lizzie Wineworks, is hosting an Open House next Saturday, September 17 from 9 to 5.

Dave will be there in person to describe the winemaking experience. This gives you the opportunity to check out this boutique wine education site. Stop by anytime to talk to Dave. If you plan to visit, give Dave a call at 301-318-9954 or send him an email.

Those who have made wine at Tin Lizzie may want to stop by to talk and  to enjoy sharing experiences with others.

If you missed last week’s blog about Tin Lizzie Wineworks, check it out on the Wine Trail Traveler website blog.

Cheers! Kathy

By Kathy | Posted in Wine News/Commentary, Winery Events | Tagged , , | Comments (0)

Riverside Winefest to Help Sotterley Plantation

September 11, 2011 – 7:46 am

Despite the damage caused by Hurricane Irene to Sotterley Plantation, the annual Riverside Winefest at Sotterley Plantation will take place October 1 – 2 from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 pm.  Ticket proceeds will go to the plantation towards restoring the plantation. Southern Maryland is a beautiful area of the state to visit.

Sotterley Plantation built in 1703 is in Hollywood.  Until September 23, tickets in advance are $20 for adults. Designated driver tickets are $15 and for those aged 6 to 20, tickets are $5.  At the gate the tickets will be $25 for adults. Attendees can expect to find wine tastings, food, live music, demonstrations, exhibits and children’s activities.

Hurricane Irene caused severe damage to Sotterley Plantation, a National Historic Landmark. Heavy rains and strong winds caused the destruction. Fortunately the historical house did not have major damage however several other buildings were damaged. There were also many trees down.

The good news is that the Riverside WineFest at Sotterley will be held and ticket proceeds will help with the restoration.  Check the Sotterley Plantation website for tickets and more information. Tickets are available online.

If you are not able to attend the Winefest, considering a donation to the Sotterley Plantation. They have a donation button on their home page.

Cheers, Kathy

 

 

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Will the Rain Train Effect Grapes?

September 10, 2011 – 6:10 am

Some on the east coast were introduced to a meteorology term “training” also called the “rain train.” From southern Virginia to New York, a narrow swatch of land witnessed a few inches to a few feet of rain that kept on pelting the area for several days. This rain system came on the heels of Hurricane Irene that also dumped record amounts of rain on parts of the same area. How will the unharvested grapes handle all this water?

There are many variables such as what happens with the weather next. The grapes absorbed water but sunny days would help. Some grapes that may have taken up too much water may bloat and crack allowing disease to set in. Others may just swell up. If harvested soon or if the rain continues, the grapes will produce lighter wines with more juice and less sugar, aromas and flavors. The absorbed water can dilute what is good about the grape. There are other criteria that relates to rain fall including how well the soil drains and how many days until harvest.

Winemakers have few options. One is to start talking about terroir. Vertical tastings of 2009, 2010 and 2011 wines will show very different wines from the east coast. The intensity of the grapes’ potential will be different each of those years. Winemakers can also blend the wines made with other wines. Another option is to make and promote rosé wines.

The good news was that the rain train wasn’t very wide. So there are many vineyards that were not affected by record amounts of rain. For wine enthusiasts who want to see the effect of terroir, compare wines made from grapes harvest this year after the rain train with previous years. Wine can often tell a story of the weather.

Cheers,
Terry

By Terry | Posted in Wine News/Commentary | Tagged , , | Comments (0)

Shrimp, White Wine, Endive and Avocado Recipe

September 10, 2011 – 1:01 am

This weekend while relaxing at home, why not enjoy some time in your kitchen and prepare a special meal. Maybe enhance the dinner experience and eat by candlelight.

Cheers! Kathy

Shrimp, Endive and California Avocado Salad

Ingredients

2 c water
1 c dry white wine
2 t coarse salt
1 dried bay leaf
1 lb medium shrimp, peeled
2 T fresh lemon juice
1 T white wine vinegar
1/4 c extra virgin olive oil
6 T crème fraîche
2 T finely chopped shallot
2 T minced fresh chives
2 small Belgian endives
1 ripe Fresh California Avocado, peeled, seeded and diced
1 small head butter lettuce

Directions

  1. Bring water, wine, half the salt and the bay leaf to a boil in a medium saucepan.  Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Add half the shrimp and cook until opaque, about 1 minute. Transfer the shrimp to a plate with a slotted spoon. Cook the remaining shrimp, transfer to the plate and let cool. Cut into 1/4-inch pieces.
  2. Whisk together lemon juice, vinegar and remaining salt in a medium bowl. Pour in olive oil in a slow, steady stream, whisking until emulsified.  Whisk in crème fraîche. Fold in shallots, chives and shrimp. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Separate endive leaves and thinly slice crosswise. Fold endive and avocado into shrimp mixture. Make a bed of lettuce on each salad plate and add a generous spoonful of the shrimp mixture to each plate and serve.

Author: Mary Bergen, a California Avocado grower
Provided by California Avocado Commission

By Kathy | Posted in Wine Notes | Comments (0)

The Wine Festival at The Plains in Virginia

September 9, 2011 – 3:05 pm

This weekend, Virginia which has about 210 wineries, is hosting a large wine and polo festival at The Plains, Virginia.

The rainy weather, which has plagued the East Coast all week, is not stopping the festival. So plan to travel to The Plains, Virginia to enjoy this extravaganza.

The festival is a celebration of Virginia wines and polo. The 25th Annual Commonwealth Polo Cup will be played with the United States team and the Great Britain team. Wine events include a wine seminar, blind tastings, a wine quiz, and a wine and cigar pairing.

Visit The Wine Festival at The Plains website for more details of the event.

Ticket information is also available at http://www.winefestivalattheplains.com/ticket.htm .

Some changes have taken place since the original schedule was made due to the wet conditions. See below.

The 25th Annual Commonwealth Polo Cup:  On Saturday the polo event will take place in the arena rather than on the grass. On Sunday a redo match will take place on the grass field.

Games: Since the field will not be used for polo on Saturday, visitors are encouraged to bring outdoor games including kites, balls, and croquet sets. The person with the most creative use of the grassy field will win a prize.

Saturday Twilight Symphony: Instead of taking place in the arena, the Saturday Twilight symphony takes place on the polo field.

Tickets: According to the festival website: “Everyone who comes out on Saturday will get to upgrade their one day ticket to a 2 day pass. Bring us your Saturday wristband and $10 on Sunday to enter and enjoy the day with a full tasting ticket.”

Do wine and polo go together? If you get a chance visit King Family Vineyards in Crozet, Virginia. Not only do they have a beautiful site for the vineyards and winery, they also have a well kept polo field.

Cheers, Kathy

By Kathy | Posted in Winery Events | Tagged , , , , , , | Comments (0)

Winery Events for this Weekend!

September 9, 2011 – 1:02 am

Below are events at a number of wineries. For any events, you should check ahead of time to make sure they are happening. Currently the East Coast is being inundated with rains from tropical storm Lee still pounding away while Texas is hurting from fires.

Our thoughts, prayers and hopes are with any wineries and vineyards suffering from the rains in the East and the fires in Texas.

Cheers! Kathy

Friday, September 9

Chateau Chantal, Michigan
Event: Wine Dinner
Website Information

Chateau Chantal, Michigan
Suggests: Epicurean Classic
Website Information

Ferrante Winery & Ristorante, Ohio
Entertainment: Yesterday & Today
Website Information

Laurello Vineyards, Ohio
Entertainment: Uncharted Course
Gift Basket Raffle tickets available – supports breast cancer research 
Website Information 

Pearmund Cellars,Virginia
Event: TGIF
Website Information

Saturday, September 10

Cava Winery & Vineyard, New Jersey
Event: Cava’s Bikers Weekend
Website Information 

Chateau Chantal, Michigan
Suggests: Epicurean Classic
Website Info

DelFosse Winery, Virginia
Event: French Crepe Day
Website Information

Ferrante Winery & Ristorante, Ohio
Entertainment: Afternoon-Tom Todd / Evening- Uncharted Course
Website Information

Grape Creek Vineyards, Texas
Entertainment: Live Music – Jeff WoodWebsite Information 

Laurello Vineyards, Ohio
Entertainment: Stone River Band
Gift Basket Raffle tickets available – supports breast cancer research 
Website Information 

Three Fox Vineyards, Virginia
Event: Annual Blessing of the Harvest
Website Information

Sunday, September 11

Blue Ridge Vineyard, Virginia
Event: Sounds of Summer-Forrest Baldwin
Website Information

Cava Winery & Vineyard, New Jersey
Event: Cava’s Bikers Weekend
Website Information 

Chateau Chantal, Michigan
Suggests: Epicurean Classic
Website Information

Ferrante Winery & Ristorante, Ohio
Event: Lobster & Leaves!
Website Information
Reservations required

Ferrante Winery & Ristorante, Ohio
Entertainment: Ramone
Website Information

Grape Creek Vineyards, Texas
Entertainment: Live Music – Jeff Wood
Website Information 

Three Fox Vineyards, Virginia
Event: Winemaker Walkabout
Website Information

By Kathy | Posted in Winery Events | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Comments (0)

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