Time for a clearance of notes, quotes and other vinous miscellany that, in their various forms, are threatening to gather dust on my desk or overload my hard drive. (Yes, I know about the cloud…)
- “Wine is a living liquid containing no preservatives. Its life cycle comprises youth, maturity, old age and death. When not treated with reasonable respect, it will sicken and die.” Know who said that? None other than legendary cook/chef/author/TV host Julia Child (R.I.P.).
- It’s promoted as Southern California’s largest wine and food festival, and the 2014 edition is scheduled for November 17-23. It’s the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival, and details are available online now: www.sandiegowineclassic.com
- There may be no better restaurant in Southern California for a romantic meal — especially at sunset — than 21 Oceanfront in Newport Beach. With stunning views of the historic Newport Pier, an array of seafood entrees and a well-selected wine list featuring more than 300 choices, 21 Oceanfront is reminiscent of a private supper club. A perfect choice for special occasion dining. For more information, go to: www.21oceanfront.com
- Chevre is the French term for cheese made from goat’s milk. Because of its herbaceous and somewhat wild flavor, it pairs well with a wide array of wines. Among the most sublime pairing partners are Albarino, Riesling and creamy Chardonnay.
- You probably don’t think of Iran as “wine country.” But it was within that country’s borders that evidence of the world’s oldest wine (made from grapes) was recovered. The find took place in Iran’s Zagros Mountains.
- Looking for a different wine-touring experience? One of our favorite wineries in Sonoma County, Gundlach-Bundschu, takes visitors on estate tours on a vehicle called a Pinzgauer, which may fall into the ATV category (we’re really not sure!). You can view a picture of the vehicle and learn more about the winery’s tour program here: http://www.gunbun.com/tours
- And finally, Bunny Finkelstein, co-owner of Judd’s Hill Winery, located on Napa Valley’s Silverado Trail, once made this observation: “Making wine is like having children; you love them all, but boy, are they different.”
