2008 an Inflection Point for Temecula Wines
As a wine writer and observer, I am constantly on the look-out for movements, new dynamics, and answers to the question “what’s going on here.” It’s like gathering all the pieces of a puzzle together, observing the mosaic and realizing that an inflection point is here. Inflection points are upward movements on a curve at the point of the upward arc.
I submit that this point is now at hand with the wines of Temecula. Task Force Wine Country 2020 is a committee, formed by the Temecula Valley Wine Association to deal with the huge growth of the region as a viable and strong wine country estimating that some 2 million visitors will enjoy the vineyards, lodging and other attractions.
The number of wineries is expected to grow to 60, with 15 more restaurants, 25 more bed and breakfast type facilities and 4 more large resorts. Traffic studies are being made with the cooperation of Riverside Country to accommodate this growth. The type of grapes grown, recent winemaker acquisitions and the quality of the wines have been impressive.
So much so, the association has been emboldened to present a package of judged “80 points plus” wines from many of the wineries, 18 in all, to unveil to the wine world’s press. They will demonstrate Temecula’s readiness to be represented as a major wine country. I will be reviewing these wines and profiling them in a later column.
One thing that struck me as I went through the list was the emphasis on Mediterranean grape varietals, such as Syrah, Sangiovese and Viognier as well as the traditional Cabernet Sauvignon. Saturday and Sunday, January 26 and 27 will be an opportune time to taste test for yourself, as Temecula’s annual Barrel Tasting event offers new releases prior to bottling. (See accompanying photo of South Coast’s Barrel Lady). You will be able to meet the winemakers from some 20 wineries and sample bistro style food.
Tickets for the 2 day event are $85.00 per person for both days plus a souvenir wine glass. Call 951-699-3626 or access www.temeculawines.org. While visiting, you might want to stop by a favorite restaurant, Café Champagne at Thornton Winery where they now have a sunset special on weekdays from Monday through Thursday from 3:30 to 5pm.
The big buzz there is the return of Steve Pickell as Executive Chef with his fusion cuisine cooking techniques. He started there in 1993 and was in this position for 12 years where he was twice voted “Chef of the Year” by Southern California Restaurant Writers and California Writers Associations. He is teaming up with winemaker Don Reha for new menu pairing ideas. Terra Restaurant in San Diego Wine Lovers Night Mark Tuesday nights as a wise dining decision when you choose Terra Restaurant in the Hillcrest area.
Tuesdays are Wine Lovers nights where Terra offers all of their wine selections at half price! Owner since 1998, Jeff Rossman, who is also the chef, has compiled a compelling list. Terra is a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence restaurant since 2001 and no wonder, with wine flights, 1/2 bottles, a generous list of fine wines by the glass, a list by grape varietal and other innovations.
I enjoyed a Rosenblaum ’05 Zinfandel from Paso Robles that was lovely with the Filet Mignon Medallions and roasted garlic potatoes, preceded by pumpkin raviolis in a roasted corn cream with toasted hazelnuts. Terra also has an innovative “Sunday Supper” menu served family-style, from 5 to 10pm. For more information and reservations, call 619-293-7088.
The Local Sip
➢ Carlsbad Wine Merchants is presenting their 4th annual Grape Bowl, a taste-off of wines that made the top 100 in Wine Spectator, on Saturday, January 26 from 3 to 5pm. Taste up to 20 of these acclaimed wines. Ticket sales to benefit the Boys and Girls Club. $30 per person at the door or order on line for $25. Call 888-750-9463.
➢ Mellow, a new wine bar in Point Loma in San Diego, has an Italian tasting Monday thru Thursday, January 28 through the 31st from 11 to 1pm. Cost is $12 per person. Call 619-223-3348.
➢ Wine Street in Carlsbad has two winning tastings: Friday, January 25 from 4-7pm they will spotlight new wines from France, ’04 and ’05 Burgundies and ’06 Meursault among others. And Friday, February 1 from 4-7pm, they will be doing a “Blind Tasting Challenge:” 6 wines with notes and hints. Get all correct and get a two for one coupon for a future tasting. Both events are $20 per person. Call 760-431-8455 for details.
➢ Poseidon Restaurant in Del Mar, Wednesday, January 30 at 7pm, invites you to join Doug and Darci Hill of Hill Family Estate Winery in Napa Valley. They make a rich Bordeaux style wine and luscious blends. A fine dinner from Executive Chef Tim Gutmann will match the wines. $65 per person. Call 858-755-9345.
Frank Mangio is a renowned wine connoisseur certified by Wine Spectator. He is one of the top five wine commentators on the web. Reach him at mangiompc@aol.com.
10631 Vinedale Street, Sun Valley, CA 91352 - Phone (818) 767-3413 - Fax: (818) 767-1410
