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13 episodes with pinots
13 episodes with pinots
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2 episodes with pinots
3 episodes with pinots
2 episodes with pinots
2 episodes with pinots
2 episodes with pinots
Recorded - 6/7/2026 On Episode 375 of the Almost Sideways Movie Podcast, we review the latest film from John Carney. Does it live up to the heights he has reached in the past? We also have some anticipated watches from Adam. Then, in honor of John Carney films, we count down the best scenes that introduce an original song. We end with some trivia and assigned 2011 blindspots to get ready for the 2011 Pinots this summer. Here are the highlights:What We've Been Watching(7:10) "Mabel" - Zach Review(12:00) "Lone Star" & "Obsession" - Terry Reviews(22:30) "Scary Movie" & "Carolina Caroline" - Adam Reviews(32:00) "Power Ballad" - Featured Review(46:00) Power Rankings: Scenes That Intro Original Songs(1:24:30) Honorable Mentions & Guessing Todd's ListTrivia!!!(1:41:50) "Tyrannosaur" - Zach Trivia Review(1:49:30) "Carnage" - Terry Trivia Review(1:56:30) Trivia: 2011 Box Office & Six Degrees of Idris Elba/Anna Faris/Samara Weaving(2:12:20) Quote of the DayFind AlmostSideways everywhere!almostsideways.comhttps://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/AlmostSideways Twitter: @almostsidewaysTerry's Twitter: @almostsideterryZach's Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/pro_zach36/Todd: Too Cool for TwitterAdam's Twitter: @adamsidewaysApple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4mYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber
Dans ce 89ème épisode de 20 Divin, certains vont découvrir le Liechtenstein
Erica Stancliff, Deodora Estate Vineyards winemaker, joins Dan Berger and Daedalus Howell on California Wine Country. This is her fifth time as a guest on the show. Her very first time was this episode on February 20, 2019 and her last time was May 23, 2025 with Doug Mryglod and Judy Phillips, the owners of Deodora Estate Vineyards. The Artemis II crew just splashed down off the coast of San Diego just this minute, as the show is being recorded live, so we toast with some great Riesling. The wine they are tasting is the 2019 made by her friend Ashley Holland who was the first winemaker at Deodora, and who taught her that Riesling from Petaluma Gap could be gorgeous, aromatic, age-worthy and not sweet. Dan explains that you have to pick the fruit early enough to get the structure that will age well. The 2023 vintage represents Ashley passing the torch to Erica, who took over as winemaker that year at Deodora. 2023 was a cold year. 2023 was very cold on the Sonoma Coast, which made it a great vintage. Erica explains that the colder growing season is longer and that favors greater phenolic ripeness. Things need time to develop and if it is not so hot that you have to pick to keep the sugars from taking over, you have a chance for more interesting flavors. As the sugar comes in with ripeness, the acid drops. You don’t want too much of either one. But the phenolic compounds will provide flavors that may fall into balance. You can add a small amount of water to manage the alcohol content at the right time. Erica compares that to putting a little bit of water in the sauce while you’re cooking it. There are other additives in the winemaker’s toolkit, like yeast, which some winemakers need, especially in a wet year. They actually use grape skins to feed the yeast. After the two Rieslings, they will taste the 2018 early cask Pinot Noir. Erica was president of the Petaluma Gap wine growers’ alliance for a few years. In Petaluma Gap it is all about the wind. Dan explains that the Pacific Ocean has a wall of cold that is different than the Atlantic. The Petaluma Gap’s winds are persistent and not as strong as other places where geologic features increase the wind. The wind is regular but slow enough. Primordial Buds David Ramey believes that the Carneros is cool because of this same wind. Erica agrees. Every year, there are two vintages on the vines, the current year and the primordial buds of the next vintage. This causes some overlap in the influence of vintage years. Dan tells a story from the book Wine and War that he read years ago. In 1939 the wine was very poor but then the Germans demanded all the wine so they sent the swill. Erica knows the story, they hid all the good wine and the caves under Dijon are still there. They grow 5 clones of Pinot Noir. She compares clones to different color coats of the same breed of dog. They produce two Pinots, one they call early cask and another late cask. One is aged in wood for about 10 months. A late cask gets 14-16 months in the barrel. They can decide which direction the wines from the same vineyard can take. This late cask Pinot is also called over-vintage. Erica explains why crystal glasses raise the aromatics, more than glass. The surface of crystal is more jagged, and this is believed to raise more aromatics when you swirl the wine in the glass. They are tasting the 2018 early cask Pinot Noir. Daedalus suggests it is like opening a cigar box and finding a blood orange with cloves stuck in it.
Wine Road: The Wine, When, and Where of Northern Sonoma County.
Wine Road Podcast - Episode 246 - Janae Franicevic / Sunce Winery Click to LISTEN Welcome to Wine Road with hosts Marci Gordon and Beth Costa. Thanks to Ron Rubin for supporting the podcast. (0:24 - 0:48) Special thanks to River Road Family Vineyards and Winery for their support. Explore their wines at RiverRoadVineyards.com. (0:49 - 0:57) Episode 246 features Janae Franicevic from Sunce Winery. (1:03 - 1:16) Janae introduces Sunce's 2021 Pinot Noir, made from estate-grown clone 777. (1:30 - 1:48) Sunce Winery is a backyard winery on Olivet Road, Santa Rosa, with a vineyard planted in 1998. (2:16 - 2:29) Janae shares the story of buying and transforming the property into a winery. (3:06 - 3:17) Starting a winery required risk, passion, and resourcefulness. (5:00 - 5:10) Janae emphasizes her role in building the business, pioneering direct-to-consumer sales and wine clubs. (6:16 - 6:37) Sunce produces small-lot wines, including single-clone Pinots and diverse varietals. (9:02 - 9:18) The tasting room offers a global wine experience, featuring unique varietals like Dornfelder and Teran. (11:00 - 11:09) Sunce's adaptability allows them to thrive in a challenging wine economy. (15:37 - 15:42) Wine remains a comforting tradition, especially in changing times. (22:18 - 22:29) Janae highlights the importance of barrel tasting as a tradition and business cornerstone. (24:05 - 24:09) Sunce offers flexible futures purchases, starting at three bottles. (27:00 - 27:22) Barrel tasting supports wineries and growers while offering customers exclusive wines at a discount. (32:01 - 32:23) Barrel tasting allows customers to experience wine's development and connect with its story. (36:42 - 36:57) Janae stresses the importance of wineries supporting each other during challenging times. (37:35 - 37:40) Visit Sunce for barrel tasting, charcuterie, and a welcoming atmosphere. (37:50 - 37:53) Barrel tasting is March 7-8. Don't miss it! Links from today: River Road Family Vineyards Sunce Winery
When you give your own awards show, you get to analyze it as a part of awards season! That's what Terry and Todd do here, as they break down every aspect of our 2025 Pinots. What were the biggest surprises? Where did we go wrong? How did strategy play out right? Check it out!Find AlmostSideways everywhere!almostsideways.comhttps://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/AlmostSideways Twitter: @almostsidewaysTerry's Twitter: @almostsideterryZach's Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/pro_zach36/Todd: Too Cool for TwitterAdam's Twitter: @adamsidewaysApple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4m YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber
Recorded LIVE on YouTube - 2/7/2026 On Episode 358 of the Almost Sideways Movie Podcast, we host our annual Almost Sideways Awards Show we call the Pinots! We hand out awards for the best (and worst) in film from last year. From traditional categories to categories only we would care about, we have a blast covering every aspect that was 2025. Stay tuned for the final winners to be announced on a month.(0:00) Super Bowl Predictions, What Are We Drinking?, Prop Bets(20:40) Supporting Actress - NOMS(27:45) Minor Character(40:15) Worst Performance(48:00) Supporting Actor - NOMS(56:25) Scene(1:15:00) Adapted Screenplay - NOMS(1:20:00) Surprising Film(1:32:15) Disappointing Film(1:42:45) Quote of the Year(1:54:20) Highest WAR(2:10:45) YouTube Most Watched Reviews of 2025(2:14:00) Most Nicolas Cage Performance(2:23:55) Matt Damon What Movie Are You In?(2:34:35) Original Screenplay - NOMS(2:40:00) '61 Cheval Blanc Best of 2025(2:53:30) Actress - NOMS(2:57:50) Stickman(3:09:50) Actor - NOMS(3:16:05) Douchebag(3:26:15) Ensemble - NOMS(3:30:45) Director - NOMS(3:35:30) Picture - NOMSFind AlmostSideways everywhere!almostsideways.comhttps://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/AlmostSideways Twitter: @almostsidewaysTerry's Twitter: @almostsideterryZach's Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/pro_zach36/Todd: Too Cool for TwitterAdam's Twitter: @adamsidewaysApple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4m YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber
Wir lassen die Korken knallen bei Born To Be Wine. Denn Sophie Christmann vom Weingut A. Christmann aus Gimmeldingen in der Pfalz ist zu Gast. Gemeinsam mit ihrem Vater Steffen Christmann führt sie eines der renommiertesten biodynamischen Weingüter Deutschlands – bekannt für tanzende Rieslinge und elegante Pinots. Neben ihrer Liebe zum Pinot Noir spricht sie auch über das Abenteuer Sekt, das für Familie Christmann 2019 mit der Gründung des Sektgutes Christmann & Kauffmann begann. Sophie erinnert noch genau den Moment als die Entscheidung für den Sekt fiel. Ganz beiläufig spricht sie darüber, dass sie den deutschen Schaumwein in punkto Herkunft, Präzision, und Handwerk neu definieren möchte. Sie erzählt von der Zusammenarbeit mit Mathieu Kauffmann, der genau weiß, was es braucht, um großen Schaumwein zu machen. Es geht um Geduld, Ungeduld und genau den richtigen Moment dazwischen. Sophie verschweigt auch nicht, dass sie und ihr Vater durchaus Respekt vor dem Projekt Sekt hatten, speziell vor Rieslingsekt. Philipp und Denise sind begeistert, was Ihr nicht zuletzt an der Verkostungsgeschwindigkeit erkennen könnt… Außerdem versuchen sie das Nummernsystem der Schaumweine zu verstehen. Denise kann Sophie entlocken, dass sie Mathieu auch den Perlenzauberer nennt und er vor der Füllung des Schaumweins immer die Hefen zählt. Philipp gibt zu, dass er aus Sorge, dass Sophie vielleicht doch besser Bescheid weiß als er, lieber keinen Schaumwein aus dem eigenen Keller zur Sendung beigesteuert hat. Deep Talk unter Freunden eben und Großes im Glas. Macht es Euch gemütlich und genießt dieses launige Gespräch mit vielen Geschichten, Anekdoten und spannenden Insights. Wir wünschen Euch viel Spaß dabei.
In this episode, Janina sits down with Cristina Torres, fifth generation of the iconic Torres family and the new voice leading Marimar Estate in Sonoma. They explore the family's Catalan roots, Marimar's groundbreaking journey as a woman building a winery in California, the rise of Albariño and Godello in Russian River Valley, sustainability, Pinot Noir clones, and what the future looks like as Christina steps into leadership. Janina also tastes the Christina Pinot Noir and explains why she finds it one of the most romantic Pinots she has ever tried. Shownotes 02:19 Marimar's cookbooks and why they're perfect for Christmas gifting. 02:55 Torres' ancestral grape recovery project — 139 sites, micro-vinifications and standout varieties like Forcada. 04:52 Christina's first harvest at DeLoach - the shock, the workload, and what she learned. 05:30 Childhood memories of wanting to join the family winery. 06:55 Five generations of Torres winemaking since 1870. 08:14 How Christina and Marimar work together and manage the mother-daughter dynamic. 11:00 Marimar's pioneering story: emigrating from Franco-era Spain and founding a winery in California. 13:22 What makes Russian River Valley unique: fog, Pacific influence, cool climate. 15:12 Whether Green Valley is the coolest AVA in Sonoma. 16:41 Christina's years in the UK at John E. Fells and how they shaped her career. 19:40 Differences in leadership style between mother and daughter. 21:26 Early plantings of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir at Marimar Estate. 23:04 Albariño in Sonoma - similarities and differences compared to Galicia. 24:27 Godello in Russian River: aromatics, texture, concrete eggs and fan favourite status. 27:04 The first (too cold) Albariño attempt in Sonoma Coast. 28:18 Why Pinot Noir remains their flagship grape. 29:43 The Christina Pinot Noir: barrel selection, extra ageing, structure and depth. 31:19 Janina's tasting notes - a romantic, perfumed, seductive Pinot. 33:12 Where to buy the wines in the UK (Vinum £2019 £65.20). 34:00 The estate dogs and their enthusiastic greetings. 35:09 Winery vs. house - the masía architecture and events at Marimar's home. 36:03 The Torres legacy: sustainability and ancestral grape recovery. 37:58 The suitcase-cuttings story and the visit from the inspector. 38:28 Janina reflects on why Marimar is such an inspirational figure. 41:11 Pinot Noir clones: 115, 667, 777 and Pommard. 42:17 What makes Pommard so balanced and expressive. 43:52 A vineyard surprise: the tiny Mencía trial block. 45:17 Fun story - six-year-old Christina baking cookies for the future King of Spain. To follow Marimar Estate on Instagram CLICK HERE and Christina Torres CLICK HERE
Adam Wolf is back, and he brings a whole new story with him. Since his last visit, he packed up his life in LA and moved to Oregon's Willamette Valley to work at Saffron Fields. We talk about that jump, what pulled him into the region, and how different the wine world feels when you live inside it instead of tasting from a distance.Adam walks us through his new role, the tasting room culture, and why Oregon's wine community feels so supportive. We get into the local food scene, the shift from LA's global wine focus to Oregon's drink-local mentality, and what it's like to taste in a place with more than 800 wineries.He also sends us a bottle of the 2021 Spectrum Pinot Noir, an entry point into Saffron Fields' lineup. We dig into what makes it approachable, how the winemaking works, and why clones matter so much in the Willamette Valley. The conversation takes us into tasting structure, flavor differences, and the challenge of keeping your palate alive after 15 Pinots in two days.It's an easy, honest episode with a lot of energy. A friend of the pod comes back, brings great wine, and reminds us why the Willamette Valley is one of the most exciting wine regions in the country.Learn More About Saffron FieldsSaffron Fields Websitehttps://saffronfields.com/Follow Saffron Fields on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/saffronfieldsvineyard/Connect With Adam on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/wineaboutmusic/Check Out Adam's New Column, 100 Point Wines, on Substack!100 Point WinesConnect with the show. We would love to hear from you!Stop Wasting Your Wine on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/stopwastingyourwine/Stop Wasting Your Wine on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@StopWastingYourWineThe Stop Wasting Your Wine Websitehttps://stopwastingyourwine.com/Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to the Podcast and Guests02:39 - Adam's Transition to Oregon Wine Country05:25 - Roles and Responsibilities at Saffron Fields08:04 - Comparing Wine Scenes: LA vs. Oregon10:51 - Exploring Saffron Fields and Its Unique Offerings15:23 - The Vibe of Wine Tasting18:39 - Creating Memorable Experiences19:09 - The Culinary Scene in Willamette22:39 - Community and Connection in Wine Country27:47 - Living the Wine Life28:20 - Exciting Wine Adventures28:50 - Exploring Pinot Noir: A Journey Through Flavor30:47 - Understanding Clones in Winemaking34:26 - The Spectrum Pinot Noir: A Closer Look35:59 - Navigating Wine Pricing and Accessibility37:56 - Tasting Notes: Unpacking the Spectrum Pinot Noir42:14 - The Structure of Pinot Noir: Tannins and Acidity45:45 - Willamette Valley: Community and Wine Culture46:38 - Wine Tasting Tips: Maximizing Your Experience48:44 - Review54:49 - Expert Insights: The Future of Willamette Valley Wines56:13 - Game: Viterations59:44 - Final Thoughts and Wine Recommendations
Napa, CA-based artist Arleene Correa Valencia talks about: Why she lives in Napa, CA, and the two distinct versions of the town, for the wealthy and for the poor ("you're either the owner of the vineyard, or you're working the vineyard," as she put it); how she's the first generation to not be working the vineyards, his dad having worked the vineyard for a period before transitioning to hand-painting etched wine bottles for a winery (which he had to ultimately leave for lack of being paid enough because he didn't have an MFA); her favorite wines by grape (Pinots and Cabs from Sonoma mainly), and more recently a master fabricator color theorist and surface touch-up artist; making her dad's dreams to become an artist come to fruition through her; how she always refers to the work she makes as 'ours,' assuming everyone knows that her father always has a hand in the projects, in addition to consistently collaborating with makers from her culture of origin; the letters she exchanged with her father, while he was working to lay a foundation for the family to move to the U.S., among the artworks acquired by Stanford's Cantor Arts Center; her complicated DACA (Dreamer) status, and the exhibition she was able to have in Mexico (in Puebla, about 2 hours from Mexico City) which ultimately allowed her to apply for, and get, a green card; how she had to defer her dream to go to a 4-year university or art school until she received DACA status, and then she got a Diversity Scholarship that allowed her to attend California College of the Arts, which she would never otherwise would have been able to afford; how one of her 1st interviews was for someone interested in learning about being undocumented in the arts (originally published in Hyperallergic, she had to have it taken down for legal reasons to protect her); how her various supporters propelled her into her art-making and her art school education, and in turn the questions she asks herself about how she can help others, undocumented and otherwise… This podcast relies on listener support; please consider becoming a Patreon supporter of the podcast, for as little as $1/month, here: https://www.patreon.com/theconversationpod In the 2nd half of our conversation (available on Patreon), Arleene talks about: How her mom comes from a family with 36 brothers and sisters, so is part of an enormous extended family; the BRCA mutation in her family, in which bodies are much more susceptible to various cancers, including breast cancer and ovarian; why ICE hasn't been active in the Napa Valley area, very likely because people of wealth and/or power won't allow their wine supply to be affected; how aware she is of her career and her sales, and that she's proud of her production rate and the work her gallery is doing with her; the demand for her truck paintings, and why she has a need to make those paintings, not producing them for a paycheck; when she requested a collector give her more time to finish a piece that she wasn't happy with, and re-made it; how integral her dad is to her work and her process, and how he's celebrated along with her, if only through his tremendous pride in her, and that it wouldn't all happen without him; the work they do with a tattoo family, and how it's similar to the dynamic that she and her dad as a family do together, which she acknowledges is a bit like the man behind the curtain; her Tochtli (rabbit) tattoo, a symbol in her family that signifies selflessness and the ultimate sacrifice; how the evolution of her being tattooed, which started when she was 18, has been about honoring the story of her ancestry and claiming her identity, and how her brothers, like her, are acquiring full body suits of tattoos.
Send us a textWhat if two Pinots from the same producer, made the same way, could still taste nothing alike? We uncork that mystery by tracing flavour back to elevation, aspect, soil and the quiet work of a long ripening season. Starting on the Mornington Peninsula with Ten Minutes by Tractor, we compare “Down the Hill” and “Up the Hill” and show how a cooler ridge delivers darker colour, finer tannins and perfume, while lower sites pour bright cranberry fruit and a touch more bunchy grip. The takeaway is simple and thrilling: site speaks, even when the label doesn't list a formal sub-region.Then we head to the Yarra Valley with Giant Steps, where single-vineyard Pinots translate geography into texture. Sexton in Gruyere ripens earliest and drinks fleshier with darker fruit and confident tannin. Applejack in Gladysdale steps higher for florals, red cherry and elegant structure. Bastard Hill climbs again, picking later and unfolding cardamom, Sichuan pepper and coiled energy that begs for time. With consistent winemaking across the range, the differences you taste are pure place—grey clays versus red volcanic soils, bushland buffering temperatures, row orientation guiding sunlight across the canopy.Along the way we unpack how unofficial sub-regions coexist with Australia's GI system, why row direction matters as much as slope, and how climate change has nudged former sparkling strongholds into still-wine brilliance. If Burgundy taught us to listen to parcels, Mornington and the Yarra are crafting an Australian dialect of terroir that any curious drinker can learn. Ready to taste the map instead of just reading it? Follow the journey, share it with a wine friend, and if you love this kind of deep dive, tap subscribe, leave a review, and tell us which vineyard you want us to visit next.Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel
Recorded - 9/14/2025 On Episode 339 of the Almost Sideways Movie Podcast, we review a long awaited sequel and the latest Stephen King adaptation. Then, we review one of Terry's all time favorites that was shut out at our 2010 Pinots. Should it have been considered more for our own awards show? Here are the highlights:What We've Been Watching(8:00) "Frantic" - Adam Ford Explorer Review(12:30) "Anita: Swedish Nymphet" - Zach Review(16:40) "Don't Tell" - Terry Oscar Anniversary Review(20:50) "Broken Soldier" - Todd Liotta Meter Karen Watch(26:00) "Spinal Tap II: The End Continues" - Featured Review(39:30) "The Long Walk" - Featured Review"INCEPTION" 15TH ANNIVERSARY DEEP DIVE(55:20) "Inception" Trivia(1:09:30) First Impressions(1:37:00) Mt. Rushmore: Hans Zimmer Scores(1:45:00) Recasting "Inception"(2:03:30) Highest WAR, Worst Performance, Minor Character Triumvirate(2:12:50) Tripod of Depravity, Scene, Least Interesting Character, Gripes and Conpiracies(2:26:40) LVP, MVP, Quote of the DayFind AlmostSideways everywhere!almostsideways.comhttps://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/AlmostSideways Twitter: @almostsidewaysTerry's Twitter: @almostsideterryZach's Twitter: @pro_zach36Todd: Too Cool for TwitterAdam's Twitter: @adamsidewaysApple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4m YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber
The wines of the Monterey Peninsula, and particularly those of the Carmel Valley, are exquisite. It is always just so interesting to have the some grape grown in different parts of the world and be so different...soely on the location and environmental influences of the vineyard. When tasting Bernardus wines, you taste complexities entirely different than anywhere else in California. These wines are something special and Jim McCabe is responsible. I also had to alert him to the famed folk guitar store, McCabes in Santa Monica. You might say Jim McCabe's side hustle—building guitars—makes him a craftsman twice over, but it's his day job as winemaker at Bernardus Winery that will have you tuning your curiosity to new frequencies. In this episode of Wine Talks, I invites you to uncork not just bottles, but the entire lived experience of crafting wine in California's stunning Carmel Valley. You'll learn why great wine isn't just about the grapes, but the ebb and flow of history, land, and a willingness to embrace both tradition and careful, gradual innovation. Jim doesn't just talk barrel aging or fermentation science; he brings you to the heart of winemaking's enduring mysteries—the art of blending picks from different harvest moments, the challenge of warding off smoke taint during wildfire years, and the ever-changing dance with nature that means no two vintages are ever the same. What does it take to draw younger generations to honest wine when technology and taste are shifting faster than vines grow? Jim and I candidly dissect the battle between old-school storytelling and the rise of social influencers, while reflecting on the timelessness of grassroots, word-of-mouth enthusiasm. Along the way, you'll pick up on the slow, patient work behind the scenes—why relationships with grape growers matter, why incremental rather than drastic change is key, and how history and tradition shape every bottle. By the end of the conversation, you'll come away with more than the technical notes of Bernardus' famed Pinots and Chardonnays; you'll understand the emotional charge that a simple sniff of a great wine can trigger, and why, whether you're a seasoned sommelier or new to the wine world, this is a craft that always keeps you guessing, learning, and savoring just one more glass. Bernardus Winery Website: https://www.bernardus.com Hotel Amarano Website: https://www.hotelamarano.com McCabe's Guitar Shop Website: https://www.mccabes.com #winepodcast #CarmelValley #MontereyPeninsula #BernardusWinery #PaulKalemkiarian #JimMcCabe #winemaking #wineindustry #boutiquewineries #winemakerstories #winehistory #vineyardmanagement #wineinfluencers #socialmediawine #SauvignonBlanc #PinotNoir #Chardonnay #winetourism #winetasting #winetrends #mccabesguitarshop
Recorded - 8/10/2025 On Episode 334 of the Almost Sideways Movie Podcast, we finish up our look back 15 years to the films of 2010 as we reveal how we voted on the major awards of the 2010 Pinots. Before that, we review the latest psycho/horror film to be a hit in theaters and count down the most disappointing experiences each of us has had in movie theaters. Here are the highlights:What We've Been Watching"Suddenly" - Todd Liotta Meter Karen Review (7:35)"Dexter: Resurrection" - Todd TV Review (11:50)"Freakier Friday" - Zach Review (14:50)"Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story" - Zach Review (19:00)"Howl's Moving Castle" - Terry Oscar Anniversary Review (22:30)"The Bad Guys 2" - Terry Review (24:50)"Weapons" - Featured Review (26:45)"Weapons" SPOILER REVIEW (41:55)Power Rankings: Disappointing Movie Theater Experiences (49:15)Honorable Mentions & Guessing Adam's List (1:34:40)2010 PINOTS MAJOR AWARD WINNERS (1:49:15)Quote of the Day (2:33:05)To see the full list of our 2010 Pinot winners and nominees, visit our website: http://almostsideways.com/Almost%20Sideways%20Awards/2010/Almost%20Sideways%20Awards.htmlFind AlmostSideways everywhere!almostsideways.comhttps://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/AlmostSideways Twitter: @almostsidewaysTerry's Twitter: @almostsideterryZach's Twitter: @pro_zach36Todd: Too Cool for TwitterAdam's Twitter: @adamsidewaysApple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4m YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber
Recorded - 7/28/2025 What did we just do?!? That's the question we answer here. The day after our epic 2010 Pinot Awards show, Terry and Todd go over the nominees and analyze the tabulating that led to the picks that were made. There were some interesting races for what made our nomination list. Make sure to check out our full show on the podcast feed and on YouTube. Also, tune in for Episode 334 where we reveal the winners of all our major categories at the 2010 Pinots.Find AlmostSideways everywhere!almostsideways.comhttps://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/AlmostSideways Twitter: @almostsidewaysTerry's Twitter: @almostsideterryZach's Twitter: @pro_zach36Todd: Too Cool for TwitterAdam's Twitter: @adamsidewaysApple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4m YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber
Recorded - 7/26/2025 Bonus episode of the Almost Sideways Movie Podcast!!! Ahead of our big 2010 Pinots Show tomorrow, we wanted to hop on and give you some reviews of the big releases to hit theaters this weekend. Watch the 2010 Pinots, celebrating their 15th anniversary, tomorrow (7/27) on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/live/cHoI6E7oXJ0?si=t1KPTbDdMIJNdbVKHere are the highlights:(2:20) "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" Review(27:50) "Happy Gilmore 2" Review(44:40) "Sorry, Baby" - Zach Review(48:55) "The Home" - Terry Review(51:55) "Karate Kid: Legends" - Adam ReviewFind AlmostSideways everywhere!almostsideways.comhttps://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/AlmostSideways Twitter: @almostsidewaysTerry's Twitter: @almostsideterryZach's Twitter: @pro_zach36Todd: Too Cool for TwitterAdam's Twitter: @adamsidewaysApple Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4m YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber
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On this episode of Beats Vines & Life, host MJ Towler sits down with Alex Kanzler and Zach Stickler, the dynamic duo behind Kanzler Vineyards in the Sebastopol Hills of Sonoma County. Their story is one of serendipity, hard work, and a deep connection to both land and family—think accidental farmers turned boutique winemakers, whose grapes have made their way into cult Pinot Noirs and acclaimed bottles from top California producers.We journey from the wild days of pulling up old apple orchards and setting them ablaze to crafting expressive, balanced Pinots and Chardonnays with a nod to tradition and a spark of innovation. Along the way, Alex and Zach open up about family roots, their paths from restaurants, real estate, and snowboarding—yes, you read that right—to building a close-knit, collaborative team at Kanzler. They share insights on winegrowing as a skill trade, the changing scene in Sonoma, the tightrope of navigating vintage variation, and the passion that goes into every bottle.This episode is a celebration of community, legacy, hard-earned expertise, and the pure joy of sharing a bottle—whether it's from your own vineyard, your neighbor's, or popped open at a lively family garden party. So pour yourself a glass, get ready to hear what goes into great Sonoma wine, and join us for a heartfelt, in-depth conversation with the minds behind Kanzler Vineyards. Cheers!For more information about Kanzler Vineyards click the link!!Follow Kanzler Vineyards on IG!Follow Alex on IG!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to.For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at blackwineguy.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeThank you to our sponsor, The Best Shake Ever. Fuel Your Body, Elevate Your Life with Shakeology! Looking for a delicious, nutrient-packed shake that supports your health and wellness goals? Shakeology is your all-in-one superfood solution! Packed with premium proteins, fiber, probiotics, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.For more information, go to The Best Shake Ever____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to.For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at blackwineguy.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Send us a textWine lovers know that finding a decent Pinot Noir under $10 is challenging enough, so when Domain Dave discovered the $4.99 Motif Monterey Pinot Noir 2023 at Trader Joe's, skepticism was natural. Yet this bargain bottle delivers surprising quality that defies its humble price tag.Pinot Noir demands specific growing conditions—cool nights, moderate days, ideally morning fog, and a long growing season—making budget versions rare. The Motif brand, previously known for its $5 Red Hills Cabernet Sauvignon, has expanded to this Monterey County offering with an attractive brown-designed label. While it won't compete with premium Pinots, this wine offers genuine varietal character with straightforward cherry notes, black pepper spice, hints of dried strawberry, and ripe plum undertones.What's remarkable is the balance. Despite lacking oak aging (impossible at this price point), the wine avoids becoming either a fruit bomb or too acidic. Likely produced by Bronco Wines, a company known for value-priced options, this Pinot excels as a casual "back porch wine" or party option—imagine serving four bottles for just $20! While not suitable for special occasions or fancy dinners, it's perfect for everyday enjoyment when you want something light yet flavorful. If you're a budget-conscious wine drinker or simply curious about how far $5 can stretch in the world of Pinot Noir, this Trader Joe's find deserves a spot in your shopping cart.Looking for more affordable wine recommendations? Visit CheapWineFinder.com where we review three value-priced wines each week, helping you drink well without breaking the bank.Check us out at www.cheapwinefinder.comor email us at podcast@cheapwinefinder.com
Recorded - 3/9/2025On Episode 312 of the Almost Sideways Movie Podcast, we reveal the winners of our own movie awards show, the Pinots. What took home the top prizes? There were definitely some surprises. Then, we review the follow-up to a Best Picture-winning classic. Our power rankings revolve around character aliases, and our trivia segment looks at independent movies this century. We also learn during recording about the DK Metcalf trade. It was an action-packed episode! Here are the highlights:What We've Been Watching(6:15) "The Mother and the Whore" Review: Zach(11:30) "Casino" Review: Terry Oscar Anniversary Watch(13:55) "Shaun the Sheep Movie" Review: Terry Oscar Anniversary Watch(15:50) "Unforgettable" Review: Todd Liotta Watch(18:30) "Fighting Tommy Riley" Review: Todd Pawn Show DVD Watch(23:00) "The Call of the Wild" Review: Adam Ford Explorer Watch(27:50) 2024 PINOT FINAL WINNERS(1:13:45) "Mickey 17" Featured Review(1:29:20) Power Rankings: Movie / TV Aliases(2:04:45) PR Honorable Mentions(2:14:40) Trivia: Best Independent Films of the 21st Century(2:25:35) Quote of the DayFind AlmostSideways everywhere!Websitealmostsideways.comFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/AlmostSideways Twitter: @almostsidewaysTerry's Twitter: @almostsideterryZach's Twitter: @pro_zach36Todd: Too Cool for TwitterAdam's Twitter: @adamsidewaysApple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4m YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber
On this episode of Daly Notes - Adam talks about the 2024 Pinots and the fall out of some of his nominations!Then Adam takes on the latest Scott Derrickson film - The Gorge, starring Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy! Then he hops in the Ford Explorer with 2010's Morning Glory! Then he rounds out the episode with a 1990 film - Blue Steel!WHERE ARE THEY STREAMING?The Gorge - Apple TVMorning Glory - Paramount+Blue Steel - Amazon PrimeFollow Adam on Letterboxd - https://letterboxd.com/almostsideways/Daly Notes is hosted by Adam Daly and is a part of the AlmostSideways family.Find AlmostSideways everywhere!Websitealmostsideways.comFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/AlmostSideways Twitter: @almostsidewaysTerry's Twitter: @almostsideterryZach's Twitter: @pro_zach36Todd: Too Cool for TwitterAdam's Twitter: @adamsidewaysApple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4mYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber
The 2024 Almost Sideways Pinot Awards have come and gone, and now it's time to overanalyze our over-indulgence. Terry and Todd sit down and discuss the stats and voting that took place that led to the nominations that were made, as well as discuss what we thought of our winners in the minor categories discussed live during the awards show. It's always a fun episode. Make sure you check out our full awards show found on our podcast feed and our YouTube channel.Watch the live recording of the 2024 Pinots on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/HvBqBZCBT3o?si=LayVQP81dWOHvakHFind AlmostSideways everywhere!Websitealmostsideways.comFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/AlmostSideways Twitter: @almostsidewaysTerry's Twitter: @almostsideterryZach's Twitter: @pro_zach36Todd: Too Cool for TwitterAdam's Twitter: @adamsidewaysApple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4m YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber
On this episode of Big Blend Radio, Linda Kissam "Food, Wine & Shopping Diva," talks with Cameron Bower of Ghost Hill Cellars. Nuzzled in the heart of Oregon's famed Willamette Valley, Ghost Hill Cellars stands as a marvelous example of exceptional winemaking craftsmanship, particularly renowned for its exquisite pinot noir offerings. Read Linda's article about her tasting experience, here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-unforgettable-pinot-noir-experience-at-ghost-hill-cellars/ Learn more about Ghost Hill Cellars at https://www.ghosthillcellars.com/ Travel writer Linda Kissam appears on Big Blend Radio every first Saturday. Follow her podcasts here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1LoD5wiSJu4NM4KZxuJYoj Follow Diva Linda's adventures here: https://allingoodtaste.info/ This episode is also being shared and featured on Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" channel. Check out our network of podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork
Die Weinbrater wagen sich in den Aargauer Jura und probieren zwei Pinots aus dem kleinen Ort Ueken.
Craig Ceccanti is co-founder of Pinots Palette, interviewed by David Cogan of Eliances Heroes radio show. Craig talks about how the Pinots Palette idea came during a dining room discussion with co-founders. They built the business literally over nights and weekends while working daytime jobs until they decided to bite the bullet and jump in to it full time. The company has seen meteoric rise in popularity and spawned copy cats across the Country.
Craig Ceccanti is co-founder of Pinots Palette, interviewed by David Cogan of Eliances Heroes radio show. Craig talks about how the Pinots Palette idea came during a dining room discussion with co-founders. The company has seen meteoric rise in popularity and spawned copy cats across the Country.
Für die heutige Episode mache ich mich auf den Weg in die ganz im Süden der Republik gelegene Weinregion Baden. Denn wer wie ich nach edlen Alternativen zu den berühmten weißen und roten Burgundern sucht, wird nicht zuletzt in diesem Teil Deutschlands fündig. Die feinsten Burgunder unter ihnen können zwar auch schon mal die 100 Euro-Marke knacken, aber es gibt auch hervorragende Weine, die weniger als die Hälfte, manche nicht mal ein Viertel dessen kosten, was unsere französischen Nachbarn dafür aufrufen. Sie verdienen unsere Aufmerksamkeit. Zum Beispiel das Weingut der Gebrüder Mathis in Merdingen am Tuniberg, westlich von Freiburg. Hier regieren heute Sabeth und Severin. Sie ist in der Pfalz groß geworden, er in Basel. In Geisenheim hat die Liebe sie zusammengebracht. Heute leiten sie eins der interessantesten Weingüter am Tuniberg. Die Weine der beiden aus den Sorten Weiß- und Grauburgunder, Chardonnay und Spätburgunder, strahlen eine berührende innere Ruhe und Harmonie aus. Sie sind zart und fein texturiert und gleichzeitig voller Energie. Es sind Weine, die ihr Herz auf der Zunge tragen und uns schon beim ersten Schluck in ihren Bann ziehen. Mich erstaunt insbesondere ihr Auxerrois und schon bei der ersten Begegnung frage ich mich, ob ein Auxerrois vom Tuniberg so betörend sein: in der Nase kühl, klar, frisch und lebhaft wie ein ins Tal hopsender Bergbach, am Gaumen präzise, elegant, energetisch und einem langen, fröhlichen Ausklang, der mir unweigerlich ein Lächeln entlockt. Aber auch die Chardonnays und Grauburgunder überzeugen auf ganzer Linie. An der Spitze der Pinots stehen die Crus Hohrain und Rosenloch, deren 2021er gerade verfügbar sind, aufgrund der geringen Stückzahlen bei Erscheinen des Podcasts aber auch schon vergriffen sein können. Eine mehr als interessante Alternative ist dann der Spätburgunder Alte Rebe. Dieser dichte, unfiltrierte Pinot stammt von über 30 Jahre alten Reben und reift 18 Monate in kleinen Fässern. Mir gefällt er wegen seines ungemein saftigen und raffinierten Gaumenauftritts, seiner superfeinen Tannine und konzentrierten Kirschfrucht und weil er im Finale noch mal richtig Gas gibt und so auch als Speisenbegleiter eine gute Figur macht. Von Sabeth und Severin will ich wissen, wie sie all das in so kurzer Zeit auf die Flasche bekommen, wie sie herangehen an die Pflege ihrer Weinberge und den Prozess der Weinbereitung. Ich will wissen, wie die beiden ticken, mit welchen Idealen und Werthaltungen sie durchs Leben gehen und was sich für die nächsten Jahre so alles vornehmen.
The dust has barely settled on our 2009 Pinots, but it's time to analyze what happened and how the stats look. Terry and Todd sit down and discuss how the nominations came about, who was close, and who could win. Tune in to Episode 282 in a couple weeks to find out who wins our top awards! Find AlmostSideways everywhere! Website almostsideways.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/ AlmostSideways Twitter: @almostsideways Terry's Twitter: @almostsideterry Zach's Twitter: @pro_zach36 Todd: Too Cool for Twitter Adam's Twitter: @adamsideways Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4m Stitcher https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/almost-sideways-movie-podcast YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber
Recorded - 7/21/2024 On Episode 280 of the Almost Sideways Movie Podcast, we jump back 15 years and talk all things 2009 with our 2009 Almost Sideways Movie Awards. The Pinots are here!!! We release the nominations for the major awards and also debate the nominees and winners for our smaller categories. We had a lot of fun! Check back in a couple weeks for Episode 282 when we will release the winners of the major category Pinots. Here are the highlights: (10:40) BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS (17:35) Best Minor Character (28:30) Worst Performance (39:30) BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR (46:20) Most Nicolas Cage Performance (56:40) Most Underrated Film (1:09:10) BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY (1:17:00) Matt Damon What Movie Are You In Awards (1:28:55) Most Overrated Film (1:42:00) BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY (1:47:15) 2009 Tripod of Depravity (2:21:00) BEST ACTRESS (2:30:40) Best Movie Death (2:41:00) BEST ACTOR (2:46:25) Best Scene (2:55:10) BEST DIRECTOR (3:00:30) Highest WAR Performance (3:09:10) BEST ENSEMBLE (3:14:40) Quote of the Year (3:25:30) BEST PICTURE Find AlmostSideways everywhere! Website almostsideways.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/ AlmostSideways Twitter: @almostsideways Terry's Twitter: @almostsideterry Zach's Twitter: @pro_zach36 Todd: Too Cool for Twitter Adam's Twitter: @adamsideways Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4m Stitcher https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/almost-sideways-movie-podcast YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber
In this episode, Pinot Noir reigns supreme. The grape that made Burgundy famous and produces some of the most expensive wines in the world takes to the tasting ring. Which wine will wear the belt in the blind wine tasting? Unknown to us, tonight we tasted these three Pinots: 2022 Ken Wright Cellars Willamette Valley ($25.99) from our local wine store - Wall to Wall Wine; our second wine was a 2021 San Simeon Monterey Pinot Noir ($19.99) from Costco, and our final wine was the Kirkland Signature Russian River Valley Pinot Noir ($11.99) from Costco.Next week we will taste a 2023 Landkastel Riesling ($6.99) from Aldi; a 2023 Kirkland Pinot Grigio ($4.99) from Costco; and an Espiral Vinho Verde ($4.99) from Trader Joe's.
Embroidery Monterey Pinot Noir 2021-$6,89 Of Costco GoodnessThis is a wine that sells at Costco for $6.89, much more elsewhereThis Pinot Noir splits the difference between Meiomi-style Pinots and Classic-style PInots.More medium-bodied than the others.Does it taste good?Yes, it is an excellent affordable Pinot Noir!For all the info check out https://cheapwinefinder.com/ and listen to the BEST CHEAP WINE PODCAST ON THE PLANET!!!Check us out at www.cheapwinefinder.comor email us at podcast@cheapwinefinder.com
Recorded - 3/24/2024 On Episode 264 of the Almost Sideways Movie Podcast, we wrap up our awards season by announcing the winners of our yearly awards, handing out the final Pinots of the year. We also review the new Road House movie and break down the best cast chemistry in movies. Here are the highlights: What We've Been Watching (7:25) Todd TallaBoogie Review: Night Watch (10:15) Adam Anniversary Review: The Messenger (12:45) Terry Oscar Anniversary Review: The Story of the Weeping Camel (15:35) Terry Double Feature Review: Late Night with the Devil, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (18:40) Zach Review: Immaculate (24:25) Featured Review: Road House (2024) (46:50) 2023 ALMOST SIDEWAYS MOVIE AWARDS MAJOR WINNERS (1:38:15) Power Rankings: Best Cast Chemistry Trivia! (2:30:45) Zach Trivia Review: Creed III (2:35:30) Todd Trivia Review: Leo (2:38:50) Trivia: Oscar / Pinot Crossovers (2:47:20) Quote of the Day Find AlmostSideways everywhere! Website almostsideways.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/ AlmostSideways Twitter: @almostsideways Terry's Twitter: @almostsideterry Zach's Twitter: @pro_zach36 Todd: Too Cool for Twitter Adam's Twitter: @adamsideways Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4m Stitcher https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/almost-sideways-movie-podcast YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber
The Almost Sideways team had a blast in Las Vegas revealing the nominees and winners of the 2023 Almost Sideways Movie Awards. After the Pinots were done, and after we all returned home, Terry and Todd got together to analyze and assess the carnage that was our awards show. We analyze our debated categories and winners, then we pull the curtain back on the nomination process for the major categories. How did the voting go? Why did certain movies get nominated and others not? We wrap up our conversation by going over some all time Pinot stats through three award shows. It was a great conversation that we have after every awards show. We just turned on the microphones this time so you could join us. (8:00) Debated Category Analysis (33:00) YouTube Awards Analysis (34:30) Major Category Nomination Analysis (1:19:00) Pinot All Time Stats Enter the 16th annual Almost Sideways Oscar Challenge! Pick the winners here: https://forms.gle/aSseLo5zMiFU96Q67 Find AlmostSideways everywhere! Website almostsideways.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/ AlmostSideways Twitter: @almostsideways Terry's Twitter: @almostsideterry Zach's Twitter: @pro_zach36 Todd: Too Cool for Twitter Adam's Twitter: @adamsideways Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4m Stitcher https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/almost-sideways-movie-podcast YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber
Recorded LIVE - 2/25/2024 On Episode 260 of the Almost Sideways Movie Podcast, the four of us were LIVE in Las Vegas to celebrate the announcement of the 2023 Almost Sideways Movie Awards!!! Who will have a shot to win some Pinots? Who did win Pinots in our minor "debated" categories? Who won Merlots for the worst of the year? Why did we think it was a good idea to rely on hotel WiFi? Why was security in our hotel room during our live recording? What a wild show it was!!! Due to the hotel WiFi, the audio for this podcast isn't super high quality. Just a warning... Stay tuned for the winners of the major awards in 4 weeks. Here are the highlights: (6:30) Best Supporting Actor - NOMINEES (14:30) Best Minor Character - WINNER (24:00) Biggest Stickman - WINNER (33:15) Best Supporting Actress - NOMINEES (39:10) Most Nicolas Cage Performance - WINNER (46:10) Worst Performance - MERLOT WINNER (53:10) Best Original Screenplay - NOMINEES (57:00) Most Disappointing Film - MERLOT WINNER (1:04:00) Best Adapted Screenplay - NOMINEES (1:09:10) Most Surprising Film - WINNER (1:16:55) Best Actor - NOMINEES (1:24:15) Biggest Douchebag - WINNER (1:32:35) Most Watched YouTube Reviews - TOP TEN (1:38:25) Most Punchable Face - WINNER (1:47:50) Best Actress - NOMINEES (1:53:15) Best Scene - WINNER (2:05:25) Best Ensemble - NOMINEES (2:11:30) Highest WAR Performance - WINNER (2:23:55) Best Director - NOMINEES (2:31:30) Quote of the Year - WINNER (2:43:15) Best Picture - NOMINEES Enter the 16th annual Almost Sideways Oscar Challenge! Pick the winners here: https://forms.gle/aSseLo5zMiFU96Q67 Find AlmostSideways everywhere! Website almostsideways.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/ AlmostSideways Twitter: @almostsideways Terry's Twitter: @almostsideterry Zach's Twitter: @pro_zach36 Todd: Too Cool for Twitter Adam's Twitter: @adamsideways Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4m Stitcher https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/almost-sideways-movie-podcast YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber
Recorded 1/14/2024 On Episode 254 of the Almost Sideways Movie Podcast, the four horsemen of the AlmostSideways embark on one of their favorite journeys that only comes once a year: the unveiling of their top 10 films of the year. We discuss the best and worst of 2023, reveal our top 10's, discuss our significant other's top 10's, and reveal the first look at our site's top 5 films of 2023. This episode was streamed LIVE on YouTube, Facebook, and the EX-Twitter. Our next LIVE episode will be Sunday, February 25th in Las Vegas for the 2nd annual Almost Sideways Movie Awards which we call the "Pinots." Be sure to tune in! To watch the YouTube feed of this episode, follow this link: https://www.youtube.com/live/eokDrXiWho0?si=nj3Z-8Z__6B5_PY7 Here are the highlights: (8:20) Todd's Prop Bets (14:30) Bottom 5 of 2023 and Stats (25:30) #'s 10-8 (45:50) #'s 7-6 (1:09:40) Halftime: The Top 2023 Films from Our Significant Others (1:18:00) #'s 5-4 (1:38:00) #3 (2:00:00) #2 (2:19:50) #1 (2:46:00) Recapping Our Lists and Final Thoughts (2:56:00) Quote of the Day Find AlmostSideways everywhere! Website almostsideways.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AlmostSidewayscom-130953353614569/ AlmostSideways Twitter: @almostsideways Terry's Twitter: @almostsideterry Zach's Twitter: @pro_zach36 Todd: Too Cool for Twitter Adam's Twitter: @adamsideways Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almostsideways-podcast/id1270959022 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7oVcx7Y9U2Bj2dhTECzZ4m Stitcher https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/almost-sideways-movie-podcast YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfEoLqGyjn9M5Mr8umWiktA/featured?view_as=subscriber
Wer glaubt schon alles über die „Königin der Rotweinsorten“ zu wissen, sollte sich diese Episode ganz genau anhören! Unser „Indiana Jones“ der Weinreben begibt sich auf die historische Spur des weltbekannten Spätburgunders, der international auch als Pinot Noir bezeichnet wird. Zurück bis an den Beginn der Ampelographie schaut sich Andreas Jung die Aufzeichnungen und Beschreibungen seiner Kollegen ganz genau an. Er deckt die Fehler der Vergangenheit auf, die bis heute eine falsche Identität der Pinots prägen. Er setzt seine Erkenntnisse in den richtigen Kontext und beschreibt ein neues, interessantes Bild der heute vielleicht prägendsten Rotweinsorte. Anhand der Gene beschreibt er einen noch unbekannten Stammbaum der Pinots und blickt bis an deren Ursprung zurück. Mit einem Rotwein vom Blauen Arbst oder Süßschwarz tauchen Sie genussvoll in die Welt der Pinots ab und schmecken deren Geschichte an Ihrem Gaumen. www.schmecken-sie-geschichte.de
Kevin again. Here we are, in a very special Kevin season, and John is too busy getting drunk in Montreal to write anything here.An Auvergne, a Jura, and an Alsatian walk into a pinot.... you won't believe what happens next.TricotTissotBinnerOk i'll fix this up later see ya chumps. Support the show
Trader Joe's Platinum Reserve Carneros Pinot Noir 2020-Your Turkey Will Thank YouThis is a $14.99 sent Pinot Noir from the Carneros AVA.It is an upscale Pinot/Chardonnay growing region.The Pinots from this AVA typically sell from $15 to $70 and beyond.Check out www.cheapwinefinder.com and listen to the awesome PODCAST for all the details!!Check us out at www.cheapwinefinder.comor email us at podcast@cheapwinefinder.com
This week's show covers the southern part of the Côte de Beaune, south of Meursault. In this part of the Côte de Beaune you will find some of the most famed, stunning Chardonnay on earth. We start with a recap of episode 455 to tie these two shows together. Then we work our way through the southern half of the Côte de Beaune and the most famed Chardonnays in the world from the Montrachet family of vineyards. Like the first show, this is quite a download and we try to provide a structure for understanding this study in terroir, which sets us up well to do deeper dives on other parts of Bourgogne so we can understand the villages even better. As in the first show, we don't need much in the notes besides this wonderful map from the Vins de Bourgogne site, but I'll throw a few things down here just for recap. Here are the show notes: We discuss the pricing of Burgundy and why wines are so expensive. We talk about the difference between Burgundy and Napa that was sparked by a conversation on Patreon. Here is the podcast I talk about with Laurent Delaunaywhere we address some of the pricing issues. We talk a bit about the negociant system and the secondary market before moving to the communes. _____________________________ This show covers the southern communes of the Côte de Beaune only, from Blagny to Marange Blagny (Blaeh-NE -- Pinot Noir) Between Puligny-Montrachet and Meursault, Blagny is a small village appellation with red wines exclusively of Pinot Noir. The majority of wine is classified as Premier Cru. Whites are permitted to be Meursault or Puligny-Montrachet, but not Blagny – since white is often better here, Blagny is not well-known because the name is only for red Blagny has steeper vineyards than most spots in Burgundy and they are at higher altitudes 340- 400 metres/1,116 -1,312 ft vineyards. In the past, vignerons didn't want to make wine in the village because it was too cool, but with climate change it is becoming more popular Blagny's Pinot is like red fruit, black fruit, sandalwood, and spice. With age which it needs because tannins can be strong, leather, pepper, cocoa, licorice, earthy, gamy notes appear. St. Aubin: (Pinot Noir and Chardonnay) Aubin is between Chassagne-Montrachet and Puligny-Montrachet, but it does not lie on the main Côte d'Or escarpment, but rather in a valley west of Chassagne. In warmer years, this cooler climate area does well, especially the top Premier cru En Remilly, Murgers des Dents de Chien (means teeth of the dog -due to the sharp stones there) and La Chatenière Aubin grows a majority of white (Chardonnay), and the best sites arecloser to Puligny and Chassagne. Common notes are white flowers, lime, flint, chalk, mineral, almond, hazelnut, orange, mineral, and cinnamon. St. Aubin blanc can be sharp in youth or can be full – depending on vintage, terroir and producer. With age the wine is more like beeswax and honey and marzipan. Whites can age up to 10 years. The Pinot Noir is has black fruit with spice and cocoa notes. The wine can be tannic in youth but becomes softer and more herbal with 5-8 years. Puligny-Montrachet & Chassagne-Montrachet (with Meursault, termed the "Côte des blancs" or “the slope of the "whites" Puligny-Montrachet (Chardonnay and Pinot Noir) A very small vineyard area (95 ha/235 acres) of nearly all Chardonnay –the terroir is complex in Puligny. The hillside has many different limestone, marl, and alluvial soils. The slopes face east and southeast. Four Grands Crus of Montrachet are located in the borders of Puligny. Top Premiers Crus: Le Cailleret, Les Pucelles, Les Demoiselles, Les Combettes, Folatières The Chardonnay is known for floral, mineral, marzipan, hazelnut, lemongrass, croissant, honey, lemon curd, limeade, peach, and green apple aromas and flavors. Producers traditionally use oak fermentation and aging but the flavors are restrained. We discuss the Grands Crus, all in the southern part of the appellation: Bâtard-Montrachet (10.27 ha/25.38 acres, shared with Chassagne) and Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet (3.43 ha/8.48 acres, all in Puligny) are lower down the hill from Montrachet. The wines are honeyed and minerally, but less rich than Le Montrachet and Chevalier-Montrachet Le Montrachet (9.59 ha/ 23.7 acres, shared with Chassagne) is considered the best white wine on earth. The Grand Cru is from the ideal mid-slope. The wines are (apparently) elegant with powerful fruit, minerality, smoke, toasty aromas and flavors. Bottles start at about US$600/bottle Chevalier-Montrachet (7.48 ha/18.48 acres, only in Puligny) is nearly as good as Le Montrachet, lying at a higher elevation, with less clay Photo Credit: BIVB Chassagne (Chardonnay and Pinot Noir) Chassagne is one of the largest communes in the Cote d'Or with 761 acres/308 ha – Chardonnay is 70% of production and Pinot Noir is 30%. With complex soils, there is a range of quality and flavor in the village wines. The Chardonnay has pronounced mineral, white flower (verbena, honeysuckle), toasted almonds, toast (from oak), and fresh butter. The wine can be like peach in riper years. They are full but always have a backbone of acidity. The Pinots are fruity with black fruit, strawberry briar, and earth notes. It is soft but has tannin and needs time to mellow. There are 55 Premier crus of varying quality, since most of the steep slopes are for Premier Crus and Grands Crus of Chardonnay, much of the Village wine on the flatter areas is Pinot Noir Grands Crus: Shared with Puligny: Bâtard Montrachet, Le Montrachet Criots-Bâtard-Montrachet: 100% in Chassagne -- 1.57 ha/3.88 acres, very small production From the Bourgogne Website: To remember their names, here is the story they offer: The Seigneur of Montrachet set off on a crusade, entrusting his virgin daughter to his favorite Chevalier (knight). In his absence, what happened, happened, and a child was born illegitimately. On his return from the Crusades, the Seigneur discovered this Bâtard (bastard), who started to cry when he saw him. The Seigneur then said: “Criots-Bâtard!” (The bastard cries!). But he was a good man, and welcomed the child into the family with these words: “Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet” (Welcome, Bastard of Montrachet). Santenay (Pinot Noir and Chardonnay) This is the last major village of the Côte d'Or and makes nearly all red wine, only 1/8 is Chardonnay. The orientation is still eastern and southern but here there is a shift to more southerly facing vineyards, still with limestone and clay. Santenay's Pinot Noir is earthy, with dark flower notes like rose petals, violet, red fruit and licorice. It can have lighter tannin, is acidic, and is a great intro to Burgundy that we can sort of afford. The Chardonnay is minerally and floral with great acidity, and a trace of nuts and spice. Maranges MAHR-ohnjhze (Pinot Noir and Chardonnay) This is where a total shift takes place and the Côte de Beaune terroir changes. In Maranges, the hills face south and southwest and the slopes become gentler, soils break down and become more of a patchwork. Gentler slopes, more heat and heavy clay lead to dark, rich wines (they were used as vins de médecin, to beef up the wines of the Côte de Nuits in bad years, so they never focused much on their own quality). Maranges is located in a different administrative department, Saône-et-Loire, where the Côte Chalonnaise lies. It's made up of three villages of Cheilly-lès-Maranges, Dezize lès-Maranges and Sampigny-lès-Maranges The Pinot Noir is fuller and darker with red preserves, black cherry, earth, licorice, pepper, and less nuance. The wines have smooth tannin, medium acidity and are similar to those of the Côte Chalonnaise. The Chardonnay is floral with minerals and honey, it is an easy drinking wine. We hope you enjoyed the two part series on the Côte de Beaune. Lots to learn and this is just the start. Photo Credit: BIVB _______________________________________________________________ Thanks to our sponsors this week: Wine Spies uncovers incredible wines at unreal prices - on every type of wine in a variety of price points. It's not a club and there's no obligation to buy. Sign up for their daily email and buy what you want, when you want it. They have a build-a-case option, so you can mix and match wines while enjoying free shipping on every purchase. Visit www.winespies.com/normal you'll get $20 credit to use on your first order! Check them out today! If you think our podcast is worth the price of a bottle or two of wine a year, please become a member of Patreon... you'll get even more great content, live interactions and classes! www.patreon.com/winefornormalpeople To register for an AWESOME, LIVE WFNP class with Elizabeth go to: www.winefornormalpeople.com/classes
As Lexman pitches a new project to his listeners, he's interrupted by a knock on the door. Peeking out, he sees a man wearing a scarf and holding a bottle of Pinot Noir. Michael I. Jordan guest stars to tell the story of how he became a hatchery owner, and how making Pinots helps hatch chicks.
Greg Graziano joins Steve Jaxon and Dan Berger on this encore presentation. The CWC folks are gone fishin' this week and there is no new show for today, Sept. 7, 2022. So this podcast episode is a repeat of a show that originally aired on KSRO on Dec. 30, 2020, featuring Greg Graziano, the winemaker for the Graziano Family of Wines. Greg Graziano, winemaker for The Graziano Family of Wines the joins Steve Jaxon and Dan Berger on California Wine Country today. His grandfather, Vincenzo Graziano, landed on Ellis Island in 1907 and worked his way across the country to Mendocino where he bought 100 acres with his future brother-in-law and began planting grapes, two years before Prohibition. During Prohibition they did whatever they could to survive, selling what wine was legal to sell. Then they sold grapes to Gallo and Italian Swiss Colony, and also Sebastiani and Parducci. Then the family started Mendocino Vineyards in the early 1950s. Gallo and Italian Swiss Colony bought most of the bulk wines then. Later, it was purchased and renamed Cresta Blanca. Then Constellation bought it and changed it to Dunwood, which never took off. Greg started making wine in 1977 and started Milano winery with his friend Jim Maloney. In 1985 he went to work for La Crema and took over in 1986 and was winemaker until 1990. They made 50,000 cases per year then, and now it's maybe 2 million, so it's a different thing now. The Jackson Family owns it now. They grow around 30 different grape varieties. He studied at UC Davis and did not graduate, but he explains how he knows what he needs to know. He learned by working for some really great winemakers. Dan Berger appreciates that they make wine from so many varietals from Italy and elsewhere that nobody else is working with. They have a 2019 Monte Volpe called Vesuvius from Potter Valley. The wine is a blend of grapes that grow around Vesuvius, including Coda di Volpe, Fiano, Greco di Tufo, Trebbiano and others. The vineyard is at a higher elevation so it is cooler so the grapes have higher acidity. The different varieties in this wine are usually never all together. It is very complex and rich, but not oaky. “The fruit is barking at me in this, it's wonderful.” – Steve Jaxon Greg mentions that they are using screw caps now. They found that there are too few people able to work a corkscrew. The year has been difficult due to all the pandemic closures, but that will improve. Click the logo to visit our sponsor Bottle Barn online for the coolest bargains on wine, beer and spirits. The Graziano Family of Wines includes all the different brands, four at the present time with one more on the way. Monte Volpe is all Italian grape varieties. St. Gregory is all Pinots. They take a break to taste Dan Berger's Cellar Dweller of the week. It is a 2014 J Lohr Cuvée POM, a Merlot-based Bordeaux style wine. It was fresh and young in 2018 and now (2020) it still has yet to develop its characteristics. Next they taste the 2017 St. Gregory Pinot Meunier. Dan mentions that there is more Pinot Meunier planted in France in Champagne than actual Champagne grapes. Dan calls it a white wine with color. Greg explains how to identify it against ordinary Pinot Noir by looking at the growing tips of the vine and underneath the leaf, they are covered with tiny white hairs. (The Munier in French is a miller, who gets covered with white dust by milling grain.) It's very floral. They're probably the oldest producer of this in the state. Chandon used to make it but stopped, there was another too. They also make sparkling wine from it. The winery is in Redwood Valley but the tasting room is in Hopland, so that is the place to visit. There are outdoor chairs and umbrellas, for now, but they are open (late 2020). Click the logo to visit our sponsor Rodney Strong for the latest on the 2022 Summer Concert series. A 2016 Barbera is next. Greg opines that in America,
GLF Wines owner Greg La Follette ("la-FOLL-et") is back on California Wine Country with Steve Jaxon and Dan Berger, to talk about his label GLF Wines, and more. The Drive co-host Harry Duke is also in the studio. Greg has been on CWC a few times before. The first was this episode on April 12, 2017. We heard about his previous label Alquimista Cellars in his next episode on November 21, 2018, then again on June 17, 2020. Dan Berger's Cellar Dweller of the Week This is a six-year-old French Rosé from Côtes-du-Rhone that Dan kept as an experiment. Usually he would not keep a Rosé this long, but it was so good when it was young he kept one just to see what would happen. It is mainly Grenache and it is still flavorful although a bit past its prime. Dan calls it “toasty” and remembers it had more peach and dried peach flavors before. Another unusual aspect is its copper color, another product of aging. Riesling is Dan Berger's favorite variety and this year he is actually making some, and Greg La Follette is his winemaking consultant in the project. He is getting three tons of Riesling grapes from a grower in Mendocino. He also made some Cabernet Sauvignon, called Berger, which was not for sale. Bottle Barn has a vast selection of great wines, from everywhere, some of which you have never heard of, at bargain prices. Dan spent some time at Bottle Barn today and gives an extensive report on their vast selection. Click the logo to visit our sponsor Bottle Barn online for the coolest bargains on wine, beer and spirits. Greg La Follette arrives Greg La Follette has arrived, with a bandaged finger. His new brand is GLF, Greg La Follette wines and he also has Marchelle Wines to specialize in small scale production from old vines. He begins his story, “Well, I'm a farmer.” (That's true, but he is also a scientist.) He has grown grapes on five continents and consulted to many winemakers around the world. Greg was first a student and then a teacher at UC Davis. Retired from that career, he is now devoted to his own projects and to being a grandfather. He worked for Zelma Long at Simi and worked with Mary Ann Graf there, back when they were all laying the foundations for the present day stature of wine country. Alquimista Cellars did not make it through the pandemic. (That was his previous label, which he talked about in his previous CWC episodes.) The wines went mostly to Michelin-ranked restaurants, with Chardonnays starting at $60 and Pinots from $75 to $120. Their bottled wines went to his partner and he kept the barrel wines, which he has labeled under GLF now. The GLF wines sell for $36 on the website, sometimes less in a couple of Florida-based discount retailers. Greg tells about having been André Tchelistcheff's last pupil. His present GLF brand is dedicated to making premium wine accessible. Ever since he was a wine student he wanted to make wines that people could afford. His GLF and Marchelle brands both accomplish that. Marchelle is devoted to ancient vines. They are available at the website marchellewines.com.
The Wine Pair brings out the Big Mac and some reasonably priced Pinot Noirs to see how well they pair together, and if any of the Pinots are worth your hard earned cash. Carmela tastes her first Big Mac, and has to come clean about not knowing that the Big Mac has a bun in the middle. They sing the famous Big Mac song (which does not talk about a middle bun!), and discuss their opinion on McDonalds all up. Wines reviewed in this episode: Wine by Joe 2017 Pinot Noir, Barefoot Pinot Noir (non-vintage), and Rue de Perle 2018 Pinot Noir from Burgundy. Listen in to hear the ratings, which go as low as a 3 out of 10, and that may be a generous score! And, can someone please tell us who the hell Jerry Mead is and how the Jerry Mead International Wine Competition gave one of these wines an 86 rating?
Trader Joe's Grand Reserve Russian River Pinot Noir 2020- The Real Deal?What is the difference between this $12.99 Russian River AVA Pinot Noir and all the $7.99 Russian River Chardonnay and Pinots from Trader Joe's?Anytime a Trader Joe's wine sells for above $9.99, there is something up.Ok, 13 bucks for a Russian River Pinot is cheap, but is it worth it?Well, check out www.cheapwinefinder.com or listen to the Podcast and get all the details!!!
On divise de monde en deux! Le vieux monde et le nouveau monde. Je vous explique les différences générales entre les types de vin qui proviennent de ces deux ''régions''. Le goût, les pratiques vinicoles, les étiquettes et les classifications. Exemples de Pinots noirs: Vieux monde (Bourgogne): Jean-Claude Boisset Les Ursulines (22,65$). Nouveau monde (Californie): La Crema Pinot noir Sonoma Coast (30.60$)
Greg Graziano, winemaker for the Graziano Family of Wines, joins Steve Jaxon and Dan Berger on California Wine Country today. His grandfather, Vincenzo Graziano, landed on Ellis Island in 1907 and worked his way across the country to Mendocino where he bought 100 acres with his future brother-in-law and began planting grapes, two years before Prohibition. During Prohibition they did whatever they could to survive, selling what wine was legal to sell. Then they sold grapes to Gallo and Italian Swiss Colony, and also Sebastiani and Parducci. Then the family started Mendocino Vineyards in the early 1950s. Gallo and Italian Swiss Colony bought most of the bulk wines then. Later, it was purchased and renamed Cresta Blanca. Then Constellation bought it and changed it to Dunwood, which never took off. Greg started making wine in 1977 and started Milano winery with his friend Jim Maloney. In 1985 he went to work for La Crema and took over in 1986 and was winemaker until 1990. They made 50,000 cases per year then, and now it's maybe 2 million, so it's a different thing now. The Jackson Family owns it now. They grow around 30 different grape varieties. He studied at UC Davis and did not graduate, but he explains how he knows what he needs to know. He learned by working for some really great winemakers. Dan Berger appreciates that they make wine from so many varietals from Italy and elsewhere that nobody else is working with. They have a 2019 Monte Volpe called Vesuvius from Potter Valley. The wine is a blend of grapes that grow around Vesuvius, including Coda di Volpe, Fiano, Greco di Tufo, Trebbiano and others. The vineyard is at a higher elevation so it is cooler so the grapes have higher acidity. The different varieties in this wine are usually never all together. It is very complex and rich, but not oaky. “The fruit is barking at me in this, it's wonderful.” – Steve Jaxon Greg mentions that they are using screw caps now. They found that there are too few people able to work a corkscrew. The year has been difficult due to all the pandemic closures, but that will improve. Click the logo to visit our sponsor Bottle Barn online for the coolest bargains on wine, beer and spirits. The Graziano Family of Wines includes all the different brands, four at the present time with one more on the way. Monte Volpe is all Italian grape varieties. St. Gregory is all Pinots. They take a break to taste Dan Berger's Cellar Dweller of the week. It is a 2014 J Lohr Cuvée POM, a Merlot-based Bordeaux style wine. It was fresh and young in 2018 and now (2020) it still has yet to develop its characteristics. Next they taste the 2017 St. Gregory Pinot Meunier. Dan mentions that there is more Pinot Meunier planted in France in Champagne than actual Champagne grapes. Dan calls it a white wine with color. Greg explains how to identify it against ordinary Pinot Noir by looking at the growing tips of the vine and underneath the leaf, they are covered with tiny white hairs. (The Munier in French is a miller, who gets covered with white dust by milling grain.) It's very floral. They're probably the oldest producer of this in the state. Chandon used to make it but stopped, there was another too. They also make sparkling wine from it. The winery is in Redwood Valley but the tasting room is in Hopland, so that is the place to visit. There are outdoor chairs and umbrellas, for now, but they are open (late 2020). Click the logo to visit our sponsor Rodney Strong for the latest on the 2022 Summer Concert series. A 2016 Barbera is next. Greg opines that in America, we have a tendency to over-do everything, but he makes wine in the old world style. This Barbera got some oak aging, but it's very rare to do that in its native Piemonte. This is the Enotria brand. It was the Greek name for Italy and means Land of Wine. (Eno means wine in Greek.) This variety can get too ripe when its grown here because we have so much sun.
The Poppy Monterey Pinot Noir 2017 is sourced from vineyards in the Arroyo Seco AVA inside of Monterey County in California's Central Coast AVA. Arroyo Seco translates to a dry riverbed and is located southeast of the Monterey Bay.This area is a deep valley close to the Pacific Ocean and has warm days cooled by afternoon winds off the ocean. It has a large differential between daytime temperature and nighttime temps that Pinot Noir grapes crave.The Poppy wine brand, the poppy is the California state flower, was founded in 2003 by the Silva Family who has 45 years of experience farming in Monterey. It the "house" brand for the Monterey Wine Company, founded in 2002.Half of the wine produced in California come from faux wine companies, meaning that they do not own their own vineyards or production facilities (a winery).The Monterey Wine Company provides a facility and services for these faux wineries. From crushing the grapes to bottling the finished wine they have you covered. If you ever feel the need to start your own wine brand give them a call.The Poppy Monterey Pinot Noir 2017 was fermented and aged with some lots of the Pinot Noir in stainless steel vats and others in French oak barrels. About halfway thru the fermentation and aging process, they rotate the wines. The oak fermented wine goes to stainless steel and the stainless steel gets transferred to oak barrels. The 2017 vintage is the current release and that tells you a bit about the production methods used to produce this Pinot. It is a young, drink-it-now wine, Poppy recommends drinking it with 4 years of release.If in 2020 a current release is a 2019 or 2018 vintage, that would indicate that the winemaker used techniques that would allow the wine to balance fairly quickly. A 2017 vintage in 2020 suggests more involved production methods that would need additional time for the wine to be ready for sale.It is not necessarily a difference of good or bad if a wine is made for faster release or has more extensive production. It is more of a stylistic difference, but I find I prefer Pinot Noir wines that need more time to balance.I am a fan of coastal California Pinot Noir and Monterey County has its share of excellent Pinot Noir producers. While they have many high0-end wineries, Monterey has a pretty good track record for making excellent affordable Pinot Noir. I found the Poppy Monterey Pinot Noir 2017 onside for $11.99. The alcohol content is 13.5%.Poppy Monterey Pinot Noir 2017 Tasting NotesThe color is a clear, see-thru garnet red. The nose is very promising, there is bright, ripe cherry, with herbs, mushroom, oak spice, crushed fall leaves, black pepper, a little vanilla, and strawberry. A good Pinot Noir has a very unique aroma.This Pinot Noir has a silky smooth mouthfeel and a good bit of complexity on the palate. It starts with slightly tart cherry, a touch of tea, exotic spice, a little creamy vanilla, and strawberry. The mid-palate offers a rougher brush of spice, a salty sensation, and cranberry.The tannins do not interfere with the flavor profile and the acidity is the kind I like. It gets you reaching for the next sip without consciously thinking about it.The SummaryThe Poppy Monterey Pinot Noir 2017 provides a very solid Pinot Noir drinking experience.This Pinot Noir reminded me of much more expensive Pinots.At $11.99, I expected a quality wine, but the Poppy gave me more than I was expecting. This is not good for the price Pinot Noir, this is a straight-up good Pinot Noir. It just happens to be rather affordable.
The StoryLoudenotte Pinot Noir 2018The Loudenotte Pinot Noir Pays d'Oc 2018 is a $6.99 Trader Joe's import exclusive sourced from grapes from the south of France. The Oc in Pays d'Oc refers to Occitania which runs from the border with Spain to the Rhone Valley to the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean.The wines from this region are designated as IGP wines which is a step below the AOC classification. IGP wines are the wines that folks in Europe drink every day. They are usually well made and produced in large enough quantities to keep the price down.This part of France is not well known for Pinot Noir, many of the Red wines are blends. But here is a link to another Trader Joe's Pays d'Oc Pinot Noir that has been a solid value for the last several vintages.The Pays d"Oc region of France has a wine history going back to Ancient Rome. They have found evidence of winemaking that goes back 2,600 years. That they still produce wine here a couple of thousand years later, says a lot but the area.There is no technical information available for the Loudenotte Pinot Noir and the label gives no clues. It says bottled in France, also bottled with care, and product of France, not exactly detailed information. The back label says the grapes came from selected vineyards, but every wine has grapes from vineyards that somebody selected.So, to learn more about this Pinot Noir, we are going to pour and glass and take a sip. At $6.99 we are not taking much f a risk. the alcohol content is 13%.Loudenotte Pinot Noir Pays d'Oc 2018 Tasting NotesThe color is a dark, but still clear garnet red. The nose is black cherry, spice, light herbs, plum, and black licorice. Yes, I know licorice is supposed to be black, but I was raised on red Twizzlers. This is a Pinot with a silky mouthfeel, but a more challenging flavor profile. It tastes of ripe black cherry, black pepper, a slightly rough edge from herbs, and then smooth plum. The mid-palate adds tart cranberry and a good slap of Altoid's spice. The tannins are smooth and the acidity is balanced.The Summary* The Loudenotte Pinot Noir Pays d'Oc 2018 is a decent Pinot Noir, I can't say it is my favorite Pinot, but it is well worth the $6.99 price tag.* There are few sub-seven buck Pinot Noirs this good. Though there are several Pinots in the $10 range that I prefer.* Expecting a world-class Pinot Noir is silly, it's all about exploration and they Loudenotte is worth a stop on your wine journey.
The StoryThe Trader Joe's Reserve Anderson Valley Pinot Noir is a $9.99 Trader Joe's exclusive. Anderson Valley is located in coastal Mendocino and is situated between two mountain ranges. Two more things to note are this the 2018 vintage and is Lot #201.Anderson Valley has a growing reputation for the production of fine Pinot Noir wines. I noticed that the alcohol level is 14.5% which fairly heavy for a Pinot Noir. Burgundian Pinot Noir is closer to 12.5%, so this is a substantial increase.I did a quick check of currently released Anderson Valley Pinot Noir's and found that 14.5% is not out of line. So this should be a Pinot Noir with a bit more weight on the palate than California Pinot Noir.Trader Joe's Fearless Flyer claims that this Pinot Noir is comparable to $30 Pinots from the region. I believe them, we recently did a post on a $12.99 Napa Chardonnay that TJ's said would have cost twenty-five dollars under a different label. And that claim rang true.A Pinot Noir from a winery located in Anderson Valley can easily sell for $30 and usually much more. A Brand wine, that is a wine that is not tied to a particular winery, may come in a bit cheaper. But Pinot Noir from a well-regarded AVA can get expensive in a hurry.It's funny, one of the reasons I thought the $12.99 Napa Chardonnay should have cost twice as much is because it had a real cork, no composite or plastic cork. Value-priced wine almost never has a real cork, you are drinking the wine within 48 hours of buying it, there is no reason to use a real cork that when it isn't really needed.The Trader Joe's Reserve Anderson Valley Pinot Noir has a composite cork, so no tip-off there, it is just that a 100% Anderson Valley Pinot Noir can command a good price. But, that is if it from a well-known winery or a winemaker with a solid track record.Store label wine just cannot demand the same prices as established wineries can for their wines. Folks will pay thirty plus dollars for a Pinot Noir from a boutique Anderson Valley winery because they know what they are getting and what to expect.Trader Joe's Reserve wines have been wines well worth buying for quite some time, but they are a mixed bag. Where they came from and how they were made varies. There have been $9.99 wines that should have sold for $50 and $9.99 wines that were priced about right.So, if this was a $30 wine under a different label, a label where the wines provenance and vintage history can be verified, that is believable. That is the main story here, Trader Joe's Reserve wine, Grand Reserve, Platinum Reserve, and the rest are for adventurous bargain hunters. Sometimes you find a great bargain and sometimes not so much. I think this one just might be a bargain.Trader Joe's Reserve Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Tasting NotesThe color is dark, but still see-thru garnet red. The nose is cherries and spice, a little vanilla, some herbs, black pepper, and cold coffee. This is a little bit heavier on the palate, the 14.5% alcohol does make a difference, but the complex Pinot Noir flavors are on full display.It starts with ripe black cherry, and a healthy dose of exotic spice, there is a hard edge for herbs and a splash of black pepper.
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