Connecticut Corkers

Uncork Your Inner Wine Expert at the 5th Annual CT Wine Festival

July 13, 2013 By Renee A

Wine Institute of New England

presents

Uncorking Your Inner Wine Expert!

The 5th Annual Connecticut Wine Festival

Goshen Fairgrounds

Saturday, July 27th

Renée Allen, Director of the Wine Institute of New England, will be conducting a wine appreciation seminar at this year's Festival on Saturday, July 27th from 1:30-3:00 pm.

Renée, a Certified Specialist of Wine, will cover wine tasting techniques and varietal information, and will offer terrific tips that will have you sipping like a pro this summer.

For information and advance ticket sales, visit: www.ctwine.com

Filed Under: Connecticut Corkers, Organic Wine, Tastings & Events

The 5th Connecticut Wine Festival

June 27, 2013 By Renee A

Wine Institute of New England

to present a wine appreciation seminar

The 5th Annual Connecticut Wine Festival

Goshen Fairgrounds

Saturday and Sunday, July 27th & 28th

"Have A Grape Day"

The Connecticut Wine Festival will be returning for a fifth year of showcasing Connecticut’s wines, a reflection on the growing popularity of our local wines.

“From international gold medals to ‘people’s choice’ and ‘Best in Show’ awards, Connecticut wines continue to win fans and impress connoisseurs from around the world,” said George Motel, Festival Chairman and owner of Sunset Meadow Vineyards. “The Connecticut Wine Festival is a true showcase for introducing wine lovers to much of our state’s home-grown offerings. We look forward to another record year, and the opportunity to prove that our wines are truly the ‘hidden gems’ of the industry, as The Wall Street Journals calls them.”

The Festival will be staged again at the Goshen Fairgrounds in Litchfield County. Sponsored by the Connecticut Vineyard and Winery Association (CVWA) and presented by the CT Wine Trail, the Festival features fine wines from a wide variety of local vintners, making it one of the “must attend” events of the summer. The Festival also features wine classes, specialty food vendors, artisanal crafts, and a variety of live musical entertainment.

Renée Allen, Director of the Wine Institute of New England, will be conducting a wine appreciation seminar at this year's Festival on Saturday, July 27th from 1:30-3:00 pm. Renée, a Certified Specialist of Wine, will cover wine tasting techniques and varietal information, and will offer terrific tips for getting even more enjoyment out of your wine.

The specialty food vendors are primarily members of the Connecticut Specialty Food Association, an association that is part of the Connecticut Food Association. They feature local foods made in Connecticut. Adams Hometown Market, a Platinum Sponsor of the Festival, will also sell advance tickets at its stores throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts.

Daily admission to the CT Wine Festival is $25 in advance, available through July 19th at any participating CVWA winery, online, or by phone, and $30 at the door. These tickets include free wine tastings, a commemorative festival wine glass (for the tastings) and a tote bag. Guests under 21 and Designated Drivers can attend for a reduced admission price of $10. Photo ID with proof of age is required for the wine tasting. Hours for the Festival are 12:00 Noon to 7:00 PM, Saturday, July 27; and 12:00 Noon to 6:00 PM Sunday, July 28. More information and a complete list of participating wineries can be found at www.ctwine.com.

Festival proceeds are used to promote the CVWA Wine Trail and the Connecticut wine industry. The CT Wine Trail, a state approved winery and vineyard awareness program, features trails that wind their ways through some of the most scenic and historic regions of Connecticut.

“The Connecticut Wine Festival is a great place to come and enjoy the day, taste some local wines, some great food and relax.” said Sherrie Palmer, the festival director. “Cases of wine will also be available at a discount, so guests can easily make back the price of admission in great savings. What more can you ask for?”

For more information and to purchase tickets, log on to www.ctwine.com. You can also email info@ctwine.com or call (860) 677-5467.

Filed Under: Connecticut Corkers

Wine and Weeds

April 9, 2013 By Renee A

Wine Institute of New England 

Presents

Wine and Weeds 

a forest-to-table foraging tour and wine tasting

Hosted by  Sunset Meadow Vineyards  Goshen, CT

With special guest forager “Wildman” Steve Brill

Saturday, May 4^th, 2013

Experience an event like no other you have experienced before.

Learn how to forage for wild edibles with the East Coast's most famous forager, Wildman Steve Brill. After the foray, Wildman will create a delicious salad on the spot from the day's finds and lead a discussion of his advanced healthful vegan cooking concepts. Samples will be on hand for tasting, including wild sourdough rye bread with a wild garlic spread, wild chocolate truffles, and curried sunflower seeds.

The afternoon will also include a tour of Sunset Meadow Vineyards with winemaker, George Motel, and a tasting of several of Sunset Meadow Vineyards' award-winning wines.

Wine education will be provided by Renée Allen of the Wine Institute of New England.

The foraging tour will begin promptly at 4:00 pm

Cost of event: $75 per person

This event will be limited to 50 people.

For reservations or information, please call 860-591-WINE

or register online here:

Meet the Wine and Weeds Team:

Renée B. Allen, CSW ~ Renée Allen is the Founder and Director of the Wine Institute of New England, a wine education and epicurean entertainment business. She is a Certified Specialist of Wine and a member of the Society of Wine Educators. As part of providing wine education, Renee has the opportunity to work closely with many local chefs and is especially excited about the events she does involving local wines and local, sustainable foods. She is an authority on Connecticut wine and specializes in organic, biodynamic and sustainably farmed wines from around the world. Renee is also a contributing wine writer for Connecticut Magazine. The idea for Wine and Weeds came to her one day while nibbling on a wineberry in the middle of the forest. www.wineinstituteofnewengland.com

George Motel III, Winemaker, Sunset Meadow Vineyards ~ George Motel crafts award-winning and highly palatable wines at the Motel family’s scenic winery overlooking the Litchfield Hills in Goshen, Connecticut. SMV won Best Family Winery in 2010, awarded by Yankee Magazine’s Travel Guide to New England, and recently won first prize in 3 categories in the CT Specialty Food Association’s Products Award Competition, including 2013 Wine Product of the Year. www.sunsetmeadowvineyards.com

“Wildman” Steve Brill, Forager ~ "Wildman" Steve Brill is America's go-to guy for foraging and a self-taught naturalist, environmental educator, author and artist. He's led thousands of foraging tours since 1982, working with the public, school classes, day camps, museums, parks departments, nature centers, libraries, garden clubs, organic farms, scouts and more, and also leads birthday party tours.

He designed and maintains his website, Foraging with the "Wildman," http://www.wildmanstevebrill.com, and has writtenIdentifying and Harvesting Edible and Medicinal Plants in Wild (and Not-So-Wild) Places, (Harper-Collins Publisher, 1994),The Wild Vegan Cookbook (Harvard-Common Press, 2001), and Shoots and Greens of Early Spring in Northeastern North America (self-published, 2008). He created WildEdibles, a master foraging app for iOS and Android devices. He stars in the DVD, "Wild Edible Basics," and his next book, Foraging with Kids, will be available in 2012.

He's appeared countless times in major electronic and print media, but he's still best known for having been arrested and handcuffed by undercover park rangers for eating a dandelion in Central Park in 1986. The media ate it up and embarrassed officials negotiated with the naturalist, dropped the charges, and hired him to lead the same foraging tours for which they arrested him. He worked for the city for 4 years before resuming freelance work.

Filed Under: Connecticut Corkers, Tastings & Events

And The Winner Is…

April 2, 2013 By Renee A

The results of the 12th Annual Connecticut Specialty Food Product Awards Competition were announced this morning. We are pleased to report that Sunset Meadow Vineyards in Goshen, CT was awarded 2013 Wine Product of the Year for their outstanding 2010 Midnight Ice.

"We are proud of our entire staff for all of their efforts and share with them the recognition for this achievement," stated George Motel, owner of Sunset Meadow Vineyards and vice president of the Connecticut Vineyard and Winery Association. "This is confirmation of the ability to create a quality wine that is also a genuine Connecticut product."

This was only the third year that Connecticut wines were included in what was formerly a food and non-alcoholic beverage competiton. All of the wines submitted were required to be made from 100% Connecticut grown fruit. The Connecticut Specialty Food Association (CSFA) received 28 submissions from 5 wineries.

"We applaud the CSFA for conducting the state's only competition that requires every wine to be made from 100% Connecticut grown fruit," said Motel, "and for recognizing the contribution of those wineries that work to produce these wines."

After participating in the judging last week, Renee B. Allen, director of the Wine Institute of New England, shared the four wines from among her favorites that she picked as likely to appear in the winner's circle. All four of the wines chosen were awarded first place finishes in their respective categories. To read Allen's impressions of these wines, visit https://wineinstituteofnewengland.com/judging-connecticut-wines-for-the-ct-specialty-food-association/

Analiese Paik, founder of the Fairfield Green Food Guide, served as a specialty food judge and was happy to see all of her picks for best products receive an award. For a complete list of food winners from the competition and to read about Paik's favorites, visit http://fairfieldgreenfoodguide.com/2013/04/02/2013-ct-specialty-food-award-winners-announced/

And the wine winners are…

THE CT SPECIALTY FOOD ASSOCIATION’S

2013 PRODUCT AWARDS COMPETITION WINNERS:

2013 Wine Product of the Year

Sunset Meadow Vineyards, Goshen, CT

Midnight Ice 2010

Wine – Blush

1^st Place Sunset Meadow Vineyards, Goshen, CT, Sunset Blush, 2010

2^nd Place Bishop’s Orchards Winery, Guilford, CT, Amazing Grace

Wine – Dessert

1^st Place Sunset Meadow Vineyards, Goshen, CT, Midnight Ice, 2010

2^nd Place Taylor Brooke Winery, LLC, Woodstock, CT, Corot Noir, 2011

3^rd Place Taylor Brooke Winery, LLC, Woodstock, CT, Woodstock Valley Red, 2010

Wine – Dry Red

1^st Place Jones Winery, Shelton, CT, Cabernet Franc, 2010

2^nd Place Sunset Meadow Vineyards, Goshen, CT, St. Croix, 2008

3^rd Place Jonathan Edwards Winery, North Stonington, CT, Cabernet Franc, 2011

Wine – Dry White

1^st Place Sunset Meadow Vineyards, Goshen, CT, Cayuga White, 2010

2^nd Place Taylor Brooke Winery, LLC, Woodstock, CT, Wine Dog 1, 2011

3^rd Place Taylor Brooke Winery, LLC, Woodstock, CT, Woodstock Hill White, 2011

Wine – Fruit

1^st Place Bishop’s Orchards Winery, Guilford, CT, Hyland Red

2^nd Place TIE Bishop’s Orchards Winery, Guilford, CT, Celebration

Bishop’s Orchards Winery, Guilford, CT, Honey Peach Melba

3^rd Place Bishop’s Orchards Winery, Guilford, CT, Happily Impeared

Wine – Other White

1^st Place Jones Winery, Shelton, CT, Woodland White, 2011

2^nd Place Bishop’s Orchards Winery, Guilford, CT, Hard Cider – Semi-Sweet

3^rd Place Sunset Meadow Vineyards, Goshen, CT, Blustery Blend, 2010

Wine – Rosé

1^st Place Taylor Brooke Winery, LLC, Woodstock, CT, St. Croix Rosé, 2011

2^nd Place Sunset Meadow Vineyards, Goshen, CT, Rosé, 2011

3^rd Place Jones Winery, Shelton, CT, Rosé of Cabernet Franc, 2011

You can visit the Connecticut Food Association at www.ctfoodassociation.org

Filed Under: Connecticut Corkers, The Press, Wine Reviews Tagged With: connecticut specialty food association, connecticut wine, wine competition, wine judging. sunset meadow vineyards

Judging Connecticut Wines for the CT Specialty Food Association

March 28, 2013 By Renee A

Rows of Rosé

I had the pleasure again this year of being involved in the Connecticut Specialty Food Association's Product Awards Competition. The competition was held at the Aqua Turf Club in Plantsville. Although this was the Competition's 12th year, it is only the third year that Connecticut wines have been included in the competition and the judging was intense. A total of 28 wines were submitted by five wineries for judging in seven different categories: dry white, other white, dry red, rose, blush, fruit and dessert. Only wines made from 100% Connecticut grown fruit were allowed to be entered into the competition.

Wine Judges (from left to right): Ken Turcotte, Owner, Divine Wine Emporium, Niantic, CT; Renee B. Allen, Director, Wine Institute of New England; Nicholas Paris, Fine Wine Public Relations Manager, E. & J. Gallo Winery

The wines were blind tasted with only the vintage and fruit or grape variety being revealed. Each wine was judged on its appearance, aroma, body, taste and finish. Judges conducted their individual assessment of a wine and, once all scores and notes had been recorded, some lively discussions ensued. Although the judges were often in agreement, there was some debate over the course of the 3-hour tasting, with each judge having his or her particular favorites. Some general observations were the fact that Connecticut wines continue to improve and that no serious flaws were detected. One judge was particularly excited to award one of the wines he tasted a perfect score.

The Connectiuct Specialty Food Association is now charged with the task of tallying up the scores and awarding the winners of each category. Once the list comes out, we will publish it here. In the meantime, here are a few of the wines that particularly stood out for me. I would not be suprised to see them in the winner's circle.

Sunset Meadow Vineyards Sunset Blush – a delicately sweet wine with hints of citrus, plum and blueberries, this wine earned one of my top scores for both its structure and balance. From first sniff to lingering finish, this wine provides a rewarding experience.

Jones Winery Cabernet Franc – made from my favorite red grape grown in Connecticut, this dry red wine hit the mark with its earthiness and black cherry notes. Nicely balanced.

Bishops Orchards Winery Hyland Red – made from farm fresh raspberries, this wine captures the essence of the fruit with a journey that begins with heady aromas and sweetness and ends with a pleasant, tangy tartness.

Sunset Meadow Vineyards Midnight Ice – one of only two ice wines being made Connecticut, this sweet nectar burst with tropical aromas and flavors like mango and lychee. Perfectly intoxicating.

Sunset Meadow Vineyards Midnight Ice

Filed Under: Connecticut Corkers, Wine Reviews Tagged With: connecticut specialty food, connecticut wine, judging wine, wine competition

Connecticut Celebrates the End of a Dry Spell

December 4, 2012 By Renee A

Onyx Spirits Mixes a Batch of Bees Knees

Prohibition ended on this day, December 5, in 1933 when the 18^th Amendment was repealed by the passage of the 21^st Amendment. I could think of no better way to celebrate the anniversary of this historic event than with some hors d’oeuvres and local moonshine at CPTV’s screening of the documentary Prohibition: Connecticut Goes Dry. The screening was held on November 29^th in a room at the Connecticut Historical Society in Hartford replete with authentic tavern signs. The crowd arrived in good spirits, many donning period costumes such as flapper dresses and fedoras. And speaking of good spirits, Manchester’s own Onyx Spirits was on hand to pour authentic Prohibition era cocktails. The cocktail being served, Bees Knees, was just that – a delectable concoction of moonshine, lemon juice, orange juice and honey. (see sidebar for more info on local moonshine)

CPTV spent months soliciting black and white photos and other memorabilia for the documentary from Connecticut residents. In attendance for the screening were many people associated with the making of the film including the grandchildren of two people shown in some of the period footage. Approximately one hour long, the film was fast-paced and fun, while still providing the essential information one would expect of a documentary. I could not help but smile at the fact that the temperance movement in Connecticut is believed to have begun in Litchfield in 1789 by a group of farmers who banned alcohol while working. Litchfield County is now home to six farm wineries including Connecticut’s oldest winery, Haight-Brown Vineyards, as well as host to the Connecticut Wine Festival. But don’t let this beginning fool you. Connecticut as a whole was far from endorsing temperance and was one of only two states that refused to ratify the amendment. According to the film, the popular thinking at the time was “Work was an effort made between parties.” The film showed scenes of Connecticut residents enjoying themselves in a way that would make the most popular frat houses of today envious. One particularly amusing scene showed several people exiting a home after the men and women had apparently exchanged clothing with each other. One man was being carted off in a wheelbarrow. These types of scenes were sharply juxtaposed with ones showing staunch supporters of temperance such as Presbyterian minister Lyman Beecher and P.T. Barnum.

The documentary touched on several important aspects of this time period, including the relationship between the temperance movement and the women’s movement, chronicling the evolution of the involvement of women throughout the period. Mention was also made of the power of grassroots efforts such as sermons and protests to effectuate change. To illustrate the power these efforts can wield, the film returned briefly to present day Connecticut to show current grassroots activists fighting for GMO labeling with Fairfield Green Food Guide’s Analiese Paik pictured leading the way.

Traveling back in time once again, a particularly exciting segment detailed the bootlegging and rum running that occurred as a result of Prohibition. Connecticut’s position along the coastline, as well as its proximity to Boston and New York, made this state the perfect hotbed for these illegal activities, ones that the nascent 5-year old coast guard could not adequately combat. “Rum Row” provided opportunities for those willing to take a small amount of risk with astonishing amounts of money. Whether it was a lack of police power or simply a lack of zeal on the part of the authorities to provide resistance, smugglers and other enterprising business people, such as famous innkeeper Nellie Green, continued to flourish during the Prohibition years earning Connectiuct the reputation of the wettest state in the union. In fact, there was one square block in Hartford that had more saloons on it than the states of Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Florida and South Carolina combined.

Connecticut may no longer have the reputation as the biggest party state in the union – let’s face it, it took a long time for grassroots activists to accomplish a repeal of Connecticut’s archaic blue laws banning the sale of alcohol on Sunday– but we can all raise a glass this December 5^th in recognition of the end of a dry era, virtual though much of it may have been. Happy Repeal Day, Connecticut. Cheers!

Connecticut Moonshine

So what exactly is moonshine? Moonshine is a high proof, unaged liquor made from grains such as corn and was sold illegally in an effort to evade taxes or bans. Often associated with the Prohibition era, moonshine was produced in homemade distilleries under the light of the moon. Drinking the illegal alcohol could be risky as it was often contaminated by the distillery parts, such as car radiators, or made toxic by the addition of substances like embalming fluid. According to their website, Onyx Spirits are the producers of the first and only legal moonshine in Connecticut. Today, free from the constraints of Prohibition, owners Adam and Pete take their time to handcraft small batches of high quality spirits that taste great. So what does it taste like? Onyx Moonshine begins softly, opening up to reveal pronounced vegetal layers that culminate with a hint of birch sap and ends with a supremely smooth finish. Maybe moonshine this good should be illegal. To find out more about local moonshine, visit Onyx Spirits at www.OnyxSpirits.com

Filed Under: Connecticut Corkers, Uncategorized Tagged With: bees knees, connecticut historical society, cptv, moonshine, onyx spirits, prohibition, repeal day

Press Release: Connecticut Wine Festival

July 21, 2012 By Renee A

FOURTH ANNUAL CONNECTICUT WINE FESTIVAL IS “GETTING

BETTER WITH AGE,” SAY PARTICIPATING WINERIES

More Music, More Entertainment, and More Wine at the Goshen Fairgrounds Saturday and Sunday, July 28^th and 29^th

Farmington, CT (July 18, 2012) –Connecticut wines will be on full display at the fourth annual Connecticut Wine Festival, Saturday and Sunday, July 28^th and 29^th, at the Goshen Fairgrounds, in Goshen, Connecticut. Featuring some of the finest, award winning local labels, thirteen participating wineries – all members of the Connecticut Vineyard and Winery Association (CVWA) – will be offering samplings of their many wines, while surrounded by music, artisan crafts, and wine lovers from all around the East Coast.

Daily admission to the CT Wine Festival is $25 in advance, available until July 21st at participating CVWA wineries, online, or by phone; $30 at the door. These tickets include free wine tastings, a commemorative festival wine glass (for the tastings) and a tote bag. Guests under 21 and Designated Drivers can attend for a reduced admission price of $10. Photo ID with proof of age is required for the wine tasting. Hours of the Festival are 12:00 Noon to 7:00 PM, Saturday, July 28; and 12:00 Noon to 6:00 PM Sunday, July 29. More information and a complete list of participating wineries can be found at www.ctwine.com.

Among the special events at the Festival is a wine class on Saturday, July 28^th, conducted by Renée Allen, founder and Director of the Wine Institute of New England, which promotes wine appreciation and education at every level. Renée is a Certified Specialist of Wine and a member in good standing of the Society of Wine Educators, the internationally recognized accrediting organization. "We are looking forward to Renée joining us this year and are excited about the wine expertise she brings to the attendees," says Sherrie Palmer, Festival Manager.

Connecticut Wines – Winning Friends, Influencing People

Connecticut wines are making their marks in the world and growing in popularity. Last year’s festival drew a record number of attendees, including one special visitor, Governor Dannel P. Malloy. This year, a representative from the Governor’s office will be on hand to receive a special “Certificate of Appreciation” for his ongoing support of the local wine industry and its important contribution to the state’s tourism effort.

“The CVWA is proud to be recognized by Governor Malloy as a contributor to Connecticut tourism through our CT Wine Trail and CT Wine Festival, as well as through the individual efforts of the many participating wineries and vineyards whose award-winning labels are ‘putting Connecticut wines on the world map,’” said George Motel, Festival Chairman and owner of Sunset Meadows Vineyards. “The Festival is a great place to see what all the excitement is about. From Chardonnay to Merlot, attendees can taste some of Connecticut’s best wines from 13 participating vineyards.”

Purchasing Tickets

Tickets can be purchased in advance until July 21 at: Bishop’s Orchards Vineyards, Gouveia Vineyards, Jones Winery, Hopkins Vineyard, Miranda Vineyard, Sharpe Hill Vineyard, Sunset Meadow Vineyards, and Taylor Brooke Winery. Advanced tickets are also available at Adams Hometown Market, a Platinum Sponsor of the Festival.

Proceeds from the Festival will go toward promoting the CT Wine Trail and the Connecticut wine industry. The CT Wine Trail is a state approved winery and vineyard awareness program that provides visitors with route suggestions to all participating members of the CVWA. Visitors enjoy special wine tours and tastings, and can have their CT Wine Passport stamped at each winery along the trail for the possibility of winning prizes – all while enjoying the beautiful Connecticut countryside.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit a participating winery or log on to www.ctwine.com. You can also email info@ctwine.com or call (860) 677-5467.

Participating Wineries

The following wineries will be present at the Connecticut Wine Festival. They are all members of the Connecticut Vineyard and Winery Association, and are dedicated to promoting Connecticut as a wine-producing region.

Bishop’s Orchards Vineyards – Owned by Keith B. Bishop, this unique winery is located in the historic town of Guilford. Winner, Gold Medal, 2010 Grand Harvest Competition; and Gold Medal: 2009 International Eastern Wine. Log on to: www.bishopsorchardswinery.com/

DiGrazia Vineyards – Founded in 1978 and owned by Paul DiGrazia, DiGrazia Vineyards produces over 15 different wines, ranging from dry to sweet. Located in Brookfield, DiGrazia is known for offering a wide variety of unique wines, including Connecticut grown pear dessert wines. Log on to: www.digrazia.com/

Gouveia Vineyards – Owned by Joe and Lucy Gouveia, located in Wallingford, Gouveia offers 11 different wines. Voted Best Rose in Connecticut 2010 by the Specialty Food Service Awards and Gold Medal Stone House Red winner at the 2008 Big E Wine Competition, Gouveia offers 11 different wines. Log on to: www.gouveiavineyards.com/awards.html

Hopkins Vineyard – Located in the heart of Litchfield Hills, Hopkins Vineyard has been making wine for over 30 years. With more than eleven different varieties of award winning wines, Hopkins Vineyard has received gold, silver, and bronze medals in National and International competitions, alike. Log on to: www.hopkinsvineyard.com/

Jonathan Edwards Winery– Located in the quaint village of North Stonington, the winery is owned by the Edwards family. With vineyards in both Connecticut and Napa Valley, it prides itself on having “New England Charm and Napa Style.” Log on to: www.jedwardswinery.com/

Jones Winery – Spanning 150 years and six generations of the Jones family, owner Jamie Jones carries on the tradition in the White Hills of Shelton. Connecticut Magazine said the Jones Winery had “the Best Connecticut Wine” in 2010 and 2011. Log on to: www.jonesfamilyfarms.com/

Miranda Vineyard – Owned by Maria and Manny Miranda, Miranda Vineyard uses the perfect blend of Old World wine-making techniques with modern techniques to keep any connoisseur happy. Gold Medal winner at the 2010 Amenti del Vino International Wine Competition for its Vinho Fino. Log on to: www.mirandavineyard.com/

Priam Vineyards – Founded in 1998 by Gloria Priam and Gary Crump, Priam Vineyards has quickly become a favorite in New London County. Producing wines styled after Northern France and Germany, Priam Vineyards’ Late Harvest Riesling was a Double Gold Medal winner at the 2011 International EasternWine Competition. Log on to: www.priamvineyards.com

Sharpe Hill Vineyard – Located in the historic town of Pomfret, Sharpe Hill Vineyard features a Zagat-rated restaurant and boasts over 250 medals in International tasting awards. The winery is just minutes from the scenic Route 169, as well as the Putnam Antiques District. Log on to: www.sharpehill.com

Stonington Vineyards – Established in 1987 by Nick and Happy Smith, Stonington Vineyards has become known for producing quality, European-style table wines. The winery is best known for its barrel fermented Chardonnays and its proprietary blends Seaport White and Triad Rose. Log on to: www.stoningtonvineyards.com/

Sunset Meadow Vineyards – Located in the scenic town of Goshen and owned by George and Judy Motel, Sunset Meadow is among New England’s largest producing vineyards. It was voted “New England’s Best Family Winery” by Yankee Magazine and has been featured in the New York Times and Wall Street Journal. Seven different wines have won Gold medals, including its 2010 Chardonnay, which took home the Gold in the 2012 International Eastern Wine competition. Log on to: www.sunsetmeadowvineyards.com.”

Taylor Brooke Winery – Located in the quiet northeastern part of Connecticut, Taylor Brooke Winery, which started as a hobby, grew into one of Connecticut’s favorite wineries. Owned by Richard and Linda Auger, Taylor Brooke is winner of Raspberry Rendezvous – 2009 Big E Wine Competition Silver Medal. Log on to: www.taylorbrookewinery.com

White Silo Winery – Known for being a small specialty winery, White Silo was established in 1990 and housed in a 19^th century dairy barn. Owned by the Gorman family, it has received awards such as the Big E: Gold; Silver awards. Log on to: http://whitesilowinery.com/

For more information and to purchase tickets, log on to www.ctwine.com. You can also email info@ctwine.com or call (860) 677-5467.

# # #

Editorial Contact:

Mario Almonte

212-616-1190, ext. 267

malmonte@herman-almontepr.com

Filed Under: Connecticut Corkers, The Press, Uncategorized Tagged With: connecticut wine, CT wine festival, goshen

Shifty Shades of Grey: Sustainability Simplified

July 16, 2012 By Renee A

Bliss Family Vineyards Chardonnay

Most of us are familiar with the word “organic” and have a fairly knowledgeable idea of what it means with respect to agriculture. However, in spite of the fact that the word “sustainable” is becoming an equally familiar term, fewer of us have a clear understanding of what that actually means in relation to agriculture generally, and to growing wine grapes specifically. The criteria for organic growing are black and white and organizations exist around the world to monitor and police these rules, but when it comes to sustainability, one must abandon the notion of black and white and instead adopt a philosophy made up of many shades of grey that takes into consideration the impact on our environment of various farming practices. Sustainability also includes an analysis of social goals as well as economic viability. Although this lack of a specific definition may seem frustrating at times, it is exactly this amorphous quality that is the essence of sustainable agriculture.

The very nature of the concept of sustainability means that the term will have different definitions at different times and in different places. For simplicity, the definition can be thought of as a balancing test: What at this given moment in time at this specific location would have the least negative impact on the environment and on our society, taking into consideration alternative solutions and factoring in the importance of maintaining a viable business.

Sunset Meadow Vineyards Cayuga White (located in Goshen, CT)

Many wineries advertising sustainable farming publicize examples that include such things as beekeeping, free-range chickens and goats, and the erection of bird nesting boxes and raptor perches. All of these efforts are meant to strengthen and enhance the surrounding ecosystems with the desired result of creating a stronger and healthier environment in which to grow vines. Although these efforts can have a positive impact on the environment, the less glamorous balancing test is in fact the heart of sustainability. Take, for example, the issue of weeding. Organics eschew the use of chemical herbicides to control the growth of weeds between the rows of vines. An organic farmer might opt instead to mulch these areas. Our sustainable farmer, on the other hand, will take into consideration not only the effect of agrochemicals on the environment but also the effect of using diesel fuel during the mulching process. This farmer might reasonably decide that it is more environmentally sound overall (more sustainable) to use infrequent applications of a mild herbicide to control weeds than it is to use additional diesel fuel to take extra passes with a tractor.

Like organic growing, sustainable agriculture attempts to leave the land for the next generation in better condition than it was when it was inherited. But sustainability goes one step farther in its consideration of the environment’s long-term future by addressing issues that organic principles do not, such as global warming, water usage and greenhouse gases. There is currently a movement to create certification standards for sustainable practices. And while this will be a positive step toward giving recognition to those implementing these procedures, I can only imagine the enormity of the task of codifying the many shades of grey that make up sustainable agriculture. While I wait, I will continue to support my environment by seeking out and enjoying sustainably grown wines.

Benziger Family Chardonnay

Want to support the environment with every sip? Why not start with one of these sustainable vineyards:

Bliss Family Vineyards, Mendocino, California
Michel-Schlumerger, Dry Creek Valley, California
Bodegas Carrau, Montevideo, Uruguay
Benziger Family, Carneros, California
Kunde Family Estate, Sonoma Valley, California
Sunset Meadow Vineyards, Goshen, Connecticut
Château Tanesse, Cadillac, France

[Show as slideshow]

Filed Under: Connecticut Corkers, Organic Wine Tagged With: benziger, bliss, chateau tanesse, connecticut wine, kunde, michel-schlumberger, organic wine, sunset meadow vineyards, sustainable wine, winemaking, wineries

It’s Back…The Connecticut Wine Festival!

May 22, 2012 By Renee A

This just in: The dates for the Fourth Annual Connecticut Wine Festival have been set and tickets are now on sale. WINE had the pleasure of attending this event last year and it was an incredible success. For coverage of last year's event, visit https://wineinstituteofnewengland.com/discovering-connecticut-wine-at-the-connecticut-wine-festival/.

CONNECTICUT WINE FESTIVAL

Saturday and Sunday, July 28 and July 29, 2012

You’re sure to “have a grape day” at the Fourth Annual Connecticut Wine Festival, which returns to the Goshen Fairgrounds in Connecticut this summer. Featuring fine wines, specialty food vendors, artisans, and live music, it is the perfect summer activity for both the amateur and sophisticated wine connoisseur. The festival enjoyed a record number of guests last year, and this year, organizers are promising “more music, more excitement, good food, and lots of great local wines.” Sponsored by the Connecticut Vineyard and Winery Association, adult guests can sample the finest wines Connecticut has to offer from many of the state's top wineries – all included in their “tasting ticket” price. They also receive a free tote bag with a commemorative wine glass to use for the tastings. More information and a complete list of participating wineries can be found at www.ctwine.com.

DATE: Saturday and Sunday, July 28th and 29th

TIME: Saturday, 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.; Sunday, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

LOCATION: Goshen Fairgrounds, Route 63, Goshen, Connecticut

ADMISSION: $25 in advance at any participating CVWA winery, by phone or online; $30 at the door. Guests under 21 and Designated Drivers can attend for a reduced admission price of $10.

Contact: info@ctwine.com or (860) 677-5467

Filed Under: Connecticut Corkers, The Press, Uncategorized Tagged With: connecticut wine, connecticut wine festival, goshen

A Foraged Feast 2012

March 19, 2012 By Renee A

Wine Institute of New England 

Presents

A Foraged Feast 

forest-to-table cooking demonstration with wine pairing

Demonstrated by  Chef Daniel Chong-Jiménez 

Hosted by  Sunset Meadow Vineyards  Goshen, CT

With special guest forager “Wildman” Steve Brill

Sunday, April 29^th, 2012

Experience an event like no other you have experienced before.

Learn how to forage for wild edibles with the East Coast's most famous forager, Wildman Steve Brill, followed by a wine reception and tour of Sunset Meadow Vineyards with winemaker, George Motel. Chef Daniel Chong-Jiménez will then demonstrate how to incorporate foraged finds into a gourmet dinner prepared from locally sourced ingredients. Each course will be expertly paired with one of Sunset Meadow Vineyards' award-winning wines.

Foray ~ 3:30 p.m. 

Wine Reception & Tour ~ 5:00 p.m. 

Cooking Demonstration ~ 6:00 p.m.

Dinner with Wine Pairing ~ 7:00 p.m.

Cost of event: $125 per person

This event will be limited to 50 people.

For reservations or information, please call 860-591-WINE

or register online here:

Foraged Wood Sorrel

The Evening’s Menu 

featuring seasonal, locally grown foods enhanced with foraged delicacies:

Appetizer

Cato Corner Cheese with Field Garlic Chutney

Salad

Salad of Burdock Root and Japanese Knotweed with Violet Vinaigrette

Entree

Grilled Tenderloin of Beef with Sweet and Sour Garlic Mustard Root

Dessert

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream with Sassafras Syrup

In order to bring you the freshest local ingredients possible, the menu is subject to change based on seasonal availability.

Meet the ForagedFeasts™ Team:

Renée B. Allen, CSW ~ Renée Allen is the Founder and Director of the Wine Institute of New England, a wine education and epicurean entertainment business. She is a Certified Specialist of Wine and a member of the Society of Wine Educators. As part of providing wine education, Renee has the opportunity to work closely with many local chefs and is especially excited about the events she does involving local wines and local, sustainable foods. She is an authority on Connecticut wine and specializes in organic, biodynamic and sustainably farmed wines from around the world. The idea for ForagedFeasts came to her one day while nibbling on a wineberry in the middle of the forest. www.wineinstituteofnewengland.com

Chef Daniel Chong-Jiménez ~ Chef Daniel continues to focus on local and delicious foods since switching from agricultural sciences to a career in the culinary arts in the late 90s. He has many years of experience working as executive chef at destination resorts for discerning clientele. Chef Daniel is currently the Culinary Director of ChefDesigned, providing nutritious and delicious food on-the-go. A long-time resident of Connecticut and a seasoned culinary educator, Chef Daniel is well known for his entertaining and informative hands-on cooking classes. www.chefdanielonline.com

George Motel III, Winemaker, Sunset Meadow Vineyards ~ George Motel crafts award-winning and highly palatable wines at the Motel family’s scenic winery overlooking the Litchfield Hills in Goshen, Connecticut. SMV won Best Family Winery in 2010, awarded by Yankee Magazine’s Travel Guide to New England, and recently won first prize in 4 of 7 categories in the CT Specialty Food Association’s Products Award Competition. www.sunsetmeadowvineyards.com

He designed and maintains his website, Foraging with the "Wildman," http://www.wildmanstevebrill.com, and has written Identifying and Harvesting Edible and Medicinal Plants in Wild (and Not-So-Wild) Places, (Harper-Collins Publisher, 1994), The Wild Vegan Cookbook (Harvard-Common Press, 2001), and Shoots and Greens of Early Spring in Northeastern North America (self-published, 2008). He created WildEdibles, a master foraging app for iOS and Android devices. He stars in the DVD, "Wild Edible Basics," and his next book, Foraging with Kids, will be available in 2012.

Chef Daniel with Chicken of the Woods

Wildman Steve Brill with Japanese Knotweed

Filed Under: Connecticut Corkers, Tastings & Events Tagged With: chef daniel chong-jimenez, connecticut wine, foraging, sunset meadow vineyards, wild edibles, Wildman Steve Brill, wine dinner