ARBOR SUMMER FALL 2021

IN THIS ISSUE: NATIONAL REPORT: VIRTUALLY TOGETHER 2021 ANNUAL DELEGATES MEETING LEADING WITH QUALITY & INNOVATION: SUPREME KNIGHT SCOTT SCHEID FICB INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS ~ REPORT

Summer/Fall 2021

1

Table of Contents Chapters Monterey .............................................4 Tennessee..............................................7 Gulf Coast ............................................8 Lodi......................................................10 San Francisco........................................16 Orange County.....................................18 Lake Tahoe............................................26 Austin...................................................28 Chancellery...........................................30 Houston................................................32

Feature Articles National Report: Virtually Together...13

by Trish Hagner

2021 Annual Delegates Meeting.........14

by Tom Webb

Leading with Quality & Innovation: Supreme Knight Scott Scheid .............20

National Headquarters

3345 Industrial Drive, Suite 16, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 Phone: 707.579.3781 Fax: 707.579.3996 www.kov.org

Directors Robert C. “Buddy” Hagner, Jr., Chairman Donald D. Bade, Claire Cuccio, Jerry Gatlin, Kenneth A. Haapala, Richard Kehoe, Ken Levy, Pasquale “Pat” Pingitore, Tom Webb

Grand Officers Robert C. “Buddy” Hagner, Jr., Grand Commander Kenneth A. Haapala, Grand Vice Commander Donald D. Bade, Grand Treasurer Tom Webb, Grand Administrative Officer

Grand Council Robert C. “Buddy” Hagner, Jr., Grand Commander Kenneth A. Haapala, Grand Vice Commander Donald D. Bade, Grand Treasurer Tom Webb, Grand Administrative Officer • webbtom@bellsouth.net Pasquale “Pat” Pingitore, International Emissary Janet Hamilton, Vice Commander Los Angeles Chapter

~

Carol L. Bade, Executive Director

by Nan McCreary

FICB International Congress ~ REPORT .............................................25

by Pat Pingitore

In Every Issue Application...........................................37 Accessories ............................................38 Directory ..............................................39

Provosts Provost General, Northeastern United States Dave Barber da ve . b a r b e r @e a r t hli n k. n e t

Provost General, Southeastern United States Thomas Storey t b s@e sm he . n e t

Provost General, Northwestern United States Peter Bosco b re d1 @ a t t . n e t

Provost General, Southwestern United States Lois Van Vooren lo i s. va n vo o re n @ g mai l .c o m

Arbor Magazine Dario & Debbie Lorenzana, Layout & Design Trish Hagner, Nan McCreary & Cathie S. Smith, Editorial Review Board

The Arbor is published twice yearly and is the official publication of the Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine, a nonprofit, tax exempt fraternal organization. Mailing address for the National Headquarters: 3345 Industrial Dr., Suite 16, Santa Rosa, CA 95403, Phone: (707) 579-3781, Fax: (707) 579-3996, Internet: http://w w w.kov.org. Unsolicited articles and pictures are welcome and will be considered for publication by the Editorial Review B oa rd .

Items, if mailed, cannot be returned. Comments and materia ls should be sent to arbor@kov.org. Members of the K nights of the Vine receive a free subscription. Subscriptions by nonmembers are $20.00 per year. Copyright ©2021‑ ALL RIGHTS RESERVED, The Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine, Inc.

2

The Arbor

From the

Commander’s Desk

Well, where do I start? The year started out a bit tentative with good reason and we saw the opportunity to connect virtually with tastings by wineries in Oregon, California and Washington as a way to engage our members and share an evening together. These events were well received and as things open up, the need may not be as great; however, we anticipate continuing these virtual events on a limited basis for members to enjoy in addition to local chapter activities. We have some terrific wine industry connections and this will allow us to provide additional benefits to our members.

As you will see in the following pages, many of our chapters have resumed their activities; often with modifications for size or location. And that, my friends, is very good news! Talking with so many across the country, I’m excited by all this activity and when I look at my calendar, I know for sure that KOV is coming back strong.

In September, the Austin and the San Francisco Bay Area Chapters held their Assemblages. The North Carolina Chapter, Lake Tahoe Chapter and the Nation’s Capital Chapter are holding their Assemblages in October. The Monterey Peninsula Chapter is holding its Assemblage in mid-November and there are so many other activities planned! I hope to see many of you at these events as we reconnect with good friends and enjoy great wines.

I can also share that the plans for our 2022 National Meeting are coming together. The dates are April 7-10 in Lodi and Murphys, California and hosted by the Lodi Chapter. Please save these dates and make your plans to attend. Our Annual Meeting is open to all members and we encourage you to come.

As you read through this issue, you’re sure to enjoy everything from the chapter activities to member news and spot familiar faces. I know you’ll want to spend some extra time on the article by Nan McCreary and her interview of our new Supreme Knight Scott Scheid. The Scheid family has been a part of KOV for many years and you’ll be amazed at their history and dedication to innovation.

In the FICB Update by Pat Pingitore, you’ll see information about upcoming international opportunities. I’ve already made my reservation to travel to Hungary in June 2022 for the Wine Challenge and I’m hearing that a number of you have too. Space is limited so if you are interested, please don’t delay.

I want to thank all the commanders and those who work with them behind the scenes. These have been some tough times and I’m so proud of the commitment you have all made to staying in touch and supporting each other. Keep doing that like I know you will.

By the time you read this, I’ll be on the road... and I hope to see you along the way.

per vitem! ad vitam!

Robert C. “Buddy” Hagner, Jr., Grand Commander

Summer/Fall 2021

3

Chef Dutertre greeting a guest

Fine Frech Dining at

Monterey

Bistro Moulin

John Steinbeck’s tome Cannery Row describes a vibrant scene where cannery workers rub shoulders with marine biologists and the ladies of the night entertain the locals. Today in this spot sits a world class aquarium and a bustling array of shops, hotels and restaurants. On one street up the hill lies three notable eateries on a twoblock stretch. One is The Whaling Station, long owned by television personality John Pisto and known for its prime steaks. The second one is The Sardine Factory, owned by fellow Supreme Knight Ted Balistreri and renowned for its extensive wine cellar, elegant dining and vibrant piano bar.

The third eatery, just a bit further down the street, is Bistro Moulin. An intimate French restaurant owned

by Knight Didier Duterte and Gentle Lady Colleen Duterte. Chef Duterte came to the United States from Normandy at the invitation of the owner of Casanova restaurant in Carmel. Chef worked at this popular location for well over a decade and developed a strong following of patrons. This chef/sommelier, husband and wife team, has hosted us several times over the past few years at Bistro Moulin. Sommelier Colleen’s passion for French wines shines through in her presentation as we enjoyed lively pairing of regional French food with wines from the corresponding region.

This year, if it that is possible, it was made better still with a pair of wine distributors hosting a tasting of an array of French wines before our dinner. We bought out the house and required proof of vaccination for all involved thus insuring a safe reentry to indoor dining.

Also on the calendar is the always spectacular Pier Party at Stillwater Cove. Pebble Beach is the location for this premier event to be held on sunny October 17th. Following that will be our Grand Assemblage on November the 13th at Pasadera Golf Club. It is sure to be extra special as we raise several well-deserving members to the highest designation in our Order. We hope you will all consider joining us!

Frank and Sherry Williams awaiting the first course

By Rich Kehoe 4

The Arbor

Windy Oaks is a family affair.

Here are Jim, Judy July and son James welcoming guests to a tasting. James is a member of the Monterey Chapter of KOV

Savoring Pinot Noirs Created with Extreme Minimal Intervention

By Tom McGurn

How does an international management consulting career (working in a friend’s vineyard in the Yarra Valley) and frequent visits to Burgundy come together in Corralitos, California? For Jim Schultze, and his family, it is the journey they experienced leading to the founding of Windy Oaks Winery in 1996 and their first vintage in 1999.

“As a management consultant, I should say that Windy Oaks was based on a detailed business plan. Yes, we had a vision and strategic plan from the start, but a bit of serendipity also played a role,” Jim reflected during a chat in his tasting room just off Ocean Avenue in Carmel. He is Founder and Executive Winemaker.

When the Schultzes returned to California after seven years in Australia and Great Britain they purchased a then 25-year old family home adjacent to an abandoned apple orchard in the small Santa Cruz County town of Corralitos. The property sits in the Santa Cruz Mountains foothills and is six miles east from the ocean.

Typical summer temperatures range from 70-degrees during the day and

Summer/Fall 2021

high 40s-low 50s in the evening. Jim felt the property’s similarity with Pinot Noir vineyards he has visited abroad made this a good location for a vineyard. He also discovered that many Pinot vineyards were planted on former apple orchard land.

Jim cleared the over-grown orchard and planted his first three acres of Pinot. At the same time, he completed the winemaking certification program at the University of California at Davis to enhance his knowledge of winemaking and the finer points of growing grapes. Jim continues to be an advocate for continuing education and innovation. continued >>>

Windy Oaks welcomes guests at the estate and two tasting rooms in Carmel-by-the-Sea and Carmel Valley pictured here.

5

AUSTIN CHAPTER CONT’D FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Vineyard Clouds in Spring

Today the Corralitos estate has grown WineGroup. About 80% of their sales come from to almost 30 acres producing Pinot, WineGroup members.

Chardonnay and Syrah. “Our goal is to create wines which elegantly reflect Windy Oaks operates tasting rooms in Carmel, Carmel their terroir – one with balance, complexity and harmo- Valley and at the Corralitos winery. The Monterey Bay ny. One wine writer descripted our approach as ‘extreme tasting rooms are managed by son James, who honed minimal intervention’ where we try to do as little as possi- his customer service and marketing skills working in ble in the winery to manipulate the grapes,” Jim explains. a tasting room and pouring at industry events. James “The most important part of my job as winemaker is what is an active member of the Monterey Chapter of the I do in the vineyard to ensure maximum grape quality and Knights of the Vine. Both the Carmel and Carmel Valley pristine condition at harvest. The French have a word – rooms have been venues for the chapter’s popular Friday vigneron – that describes someone who grows grapes and Knights’ Flights tastings. makes wine, and I think that is a good way to think about our approach. We Jim Schultze in barrel room view grape growing and winemaking as part of a single process – not two separate activities,” he adds.

Windy Oaks is a family operation.

Wife and mother Judy, who shares her husband’s love for all things oenological, utilizes her marketing consulting career to market the winery and manage their club, the

6

The Arbor

LtoR Christina See, Frank Andrasik, Bob Bennett, Angie Lenschau

Fantastic Fish Fry! LtoR Tom Webb, Guy See, Steve Owens

LtoR Ronnie & Vikki Moffitt, Judy & Mike Fink

We welcomed new transfer members Mike and Mary Ann Wassenberg, who have recently relocated to the Nashville area from the Nation’s Capital Chapter. They were gifted olive oil and balsamic vinegar from John and Sandy Barrios’ shop, Bazaar, as they were recognized for having traveled the farthest to the event. Karrie and Jason LaCroix, the newest members of our chapter, also received the delicious olive oil and balsamic vinegar. A beautifully handcrafted cutting board of multiple woods SEATED LtoR John Barrios, Bob & Marilyn Schubert, made by Steve Owens was won by Guy See in a spirited Sandy Barrios, Sheila Bentley auction to benefit the chapter’s treasury. Following dinner STANDING LtoR Karrie & Jason LaCroix, Bob Bennett and delicious desserts, we made plans for the annual Octoberfest at the home of Holly and Walter Elkin and a Christmas party to be hosted by Guy and LtoR Ron O’Neill, Nan Gallina,Teresa Owens, Mary Ann Wassenberg, Peggy Larkin, BJ Emerson, Mike Wassenberg, Christina See, Holly Elkins, Christina See. Our annual Feast of St. Vincent Jim Lenschau Assemblage will be held in early 2022 and we hope to see friends from across KOV here in Tennessee.

It was great to be back and wonderful for our chapter members to be together again.

Summer/Fall 2021

Tennessee

Vaccinations were the norm and we were ready to be back together!!! To celebrate that return, the Tennessee Chapter enthusiastically gathered in June at the home of Beth and Tom Webb. Master Commander Bob Bennett welcomed everyone back as he led a discussion on the pairing of wine with fish. It was almost standing room only as members and guests enjoyed each other’s company while enjoying that favorite Southern delicacy—fried catfish. A multitude of white wine varietals complemented the catfish, hush puppies and slaw prepared by The Fry Guy, Jon Walker. After comparing the wines and discussion the flavor profiles, it was generally agreed that the lower alcohol wines paired best with the mild flavor of the catfish.

Gulf Coast

Party at the ‘Palace’and a

Wine Experience to Remember The Gulf Coast Chapter began spreading its wings after we were given the green light to gather again. The extended lock down was over. And gather we did. The wine began to flow, and, in our area, good food always seems to follow good wine. Our local casinos provide opportunities for wine and food pairings and this past summer was no different. Our Gulf Coast Chapter joined other locals at the Palace Casino and Resort on two separate occasions for five-course dinners. The wine was excellent and enjoyed by all and the food was extraordinary! Following the first outing, our group moved the party to the Legends Hotel, a newly opened Luxury Boutique in Biloxi. We finished the evening with music and dancing at the Sapphire Supper Club where we were entertained by our local crooner Jessie Hill. We were pleased to have our Grand Commander Buddy Hagner and his lovely wife, Trish, join us for the festivities. A fine time was had by all.

We joined together again in Ocean Springs, a lovely community that caters to the arts, for a seven-course paired tasting menu at Mosaics Restaurant and Bar. Our

8

group joined other locals for an extravaganza that included such tasty specialties as Spiced Lamb Lollipops, Wagyu Ragu Bolognese, Heirloom Tomato and Strawberry Salad, Bourbon Glazed Pork Chops, Watermelon Gazpacho, Wagyu Ribeye with White Truffle Butter and Duck Fat Fries, and Cake with Tawny Port. Our group finished the evening with a keen expectation for the next event that will be presented by these gifted chefs and wine lovers.

LtoR Jim Hardaman, Jim Kuttnanuer, Kathy H. Roe, Arlene Wall, Dinah Jordan and Friend

The Arbor

Since our members live and work and play in the Greater Gulf Coast which includes not only our Mississippi Gulf Coast, but also the New Orleans, Louisiana area, the Mobile, Alabama and the Florida panhandle areas, we could not miss the opportunity to join the New Orleans wine lovers at the New Orleans Wine and Food Experience in July. This festival has been touted as one of the most incredible culinary events in the nation and this year did not disappoint. Hundreds of wineries participate and top chefs from around the city present menus that include local flavors inspired by diverse cuisines. The weekend also featured over 1,000 wines from around the world. Proceeds from this event help to sponsor local non-profit organizations, food banks, and culinary schools. This event should be added to our KOV Brotherhoods’ travel plans for future consideration. Let us know if you would like to join us when the next New Orleans Wine and Food Experience occurs. We can have a true Southern Experience with fellow wine lovers and share our local culture and our mutual love of fine wines. (Check it out at www.NOWFE.com.)

LEFT Lauren Timmons and Todd Copeland ABOVE Jim Hardaman, John & Adrienne Boothby, Rod & Donna Krentel at NOWFE

By Suzy Moss Summer/Fall 2021

9

Lodi

Enjoying the Lodi AVA at Viaggio and One Way 2021 started pretty much the way that 2020 ended. The Lodi Chapter had great plans for 2020. Great plans that were snuffed out by COVID-19. Like most chapters, early in 2020 our group went into an extended hibernation that carried into 2021.

But the Chapter was not entirely asleep. Toward the end of 2020, in keeping with our Chapter Bylaws, Master Commander Ken Levy initiated a process to transfer the leadership of our Chapter. Gordon MacKay became the new Master Commander, with Pete Rosado becoming the new Vice-Commander. Master Treasurer Roselyn Daneke and Master Administrative Officer Mike Johnson round out the new team of Chapter Officers.

Like the vineyards of our beautiful Lodi AVA, the Chapter began a slow emergence from hibernation in early 2021. The new board decided to test our members’ willingness to attend events by re-starting our monthly KOV Wine Club events on an outdoor “socially

By Commander Gordon MacKay

distanced” basis. These events are held at local Lodi wineries that are members of KOV. The wineries agree to provide a glass of wine, tastings of their current offerings, and purchases at their regular wine club prices.

KOV members agree to pay a small entry fee, bring some food to share, and buy wine. It is truly a win-win (or, perhaps, a wine-wine).

Our first event was held in April, at Viaggio Winery.

Truly a spectacular venue with a beautiful outdoor patio.

Several dozen members attended, and Gentle Lady Teri Lawrence led us through a tasting of her wines, and we all enjoyed hearing how she became the winemaker and what the real story was behind Little Missy Zin. Next up in May was OneWay Winery and their stellar lineup of Lodi Cabernets. It was crazy hot that day, and the assembled crowd decided that indoor air conditioned comfort was preferable to the sweltering outdoors. Gentle continued >>>

10

The Arbor

Brad Alderson

Bob Smith shows Gordon MacKay how to use mic Roselyn Daneke with Officers Chain

Bob & Janet Smith A winning raffle ticket!

Mike Johnson drawing a ticket

Summer/Fall 2021

LODI CHAPTER CONT’D FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Lady Debra Green, who served as our Chapter Treasurer for many years, and her family poured pretty much their entire lineup of wines, including three vintages of their remarkable Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, from 2013 through 2015.

June found us in the backyard of Bob and Janet Smith for our (almost) annual BBQ event. This had originally been planned as a BBQ and mini-assemblage; however, all of our many new members opted to wait for a formal assemblage to be inducted into our order. As a result, and as it often is at parties in the Lodi Chapter, the main event was the food and the wine.

The BBQ was truly a team effort. All nine board members and several other volunteers were on hand the night before to set up tables and chairs, discuss the agenda and logistics, all while eating pizza and drinking copious amounts of wine. A good start.

The event itself found over 50 members and guests arriving to a beautiful setting on an evening with lovely, mild temperatures. Supreme Knights John Kautz, Jerry Fry, and Brad Alderson were in attendance, along with Supreme Gentle Lady Gail Kautz. After an hour of socializing, wine sipping and appetizer grazing, we sat down to a fantastic meal prepared by Knights Bob Smith and Steve Fetzer, with assistance from a large troupe of helpers. The main course - perfectly cooked beef tenderloin topped with shrimp and accompanied by outrageously flavorful sides – was top notch. The wine pairings were varied, as attendees had been encouraged to bring their own wine to share with their table in addition to wines that were provided. Personally, I was partial to Bordeaux

John & Gail Kautz

with the steak, but there were serious contenders from many corners of the world, and of course from Lodi.

After dinner, a little Chapter business was conducted and then we got down to the serious business – raffling off several cases of wine that had been donated by local wineries and individual members. Eight cases of wine were raffled off in individual lots, with a great deal of excitement and heckling from the crowd during the entire process. We raised significant funds for scholarships and future events, and had great fun doing it. And that is what KOV is all about!

The Lodi Chapter is now looking forward to expanding our events in 2021, and hosting a grand Assemblage at Ironstone Winery in April of 2022. You are all invited to attend and sample some Lodi hospitality!

The Arbor

NATIONAL REPORT

VIRTUALLY TOGETHER ...

With chapters being limited in their opportunities to come together in person, the National office planned several Virtual Tastings members could join in. Notice of these (and upcoming) events is by email so if we don’t have your current email address, please send it to kov-office@kov.org so you don’t miss out!

The first virtual tasting of the year was on March 16 with Fullerton Wines when we explored Willamette Valley and Oregon Pinot Noirs. There were approximately 60 people participating when father and son Eric and Alex Fullerton shared their story and three Pinots which had been offered at a generous discount for those who might want to order some in advance of the virtual event. (Ordering wines is never a requirement to participate in our virtual events.)

Our next virtual tasting was on May 18 when Ian Devereux White of Smith Devereux Winery joined us from his vineyard in Napa! We could only imagine the light breeze, but we could participate in the enjoyment of three of his award winning wines! Again, a generous discount was offered and we had approximately 70 members participating … often with groups gathered together for a meal. It wasn’t the same as all being together, but it was a great alternative.

Our International Emissary Pat Pingitore made arrangements for our third virtual tasting which occurred on June 18. Approximately 65 members joined with Supreme Knight Allen Shoup and our Washington State Chapter Vice Commander and winemaker Gilles Nicault of Long Shadows Winery in Walla Walla, Washington. What a treat to have the opportunity to hear their stories and enjoy four wines … all with ratings from 91 to 97 points!

With chapters now planning more in-person events, the need for as many virtual events is likely to decline, however, the feedback that was received indicated that using our strong winery contacts, our members would still enjoy occasional virtual events and those are certainly being contemplated.

Summer/Fall 2021

13

2021 ANNUAL DELEGATES MEETING

After a year of Covid lockdown and many members now having gotten their vaccinations, the Grand Council made the decision to move the annual meeting of delegates from Santa Rosa, California to Houston, Texas to be held on Saturday, April 10, 2021. The Houston Chapter had many plans already in place for their Assemblage and easily accommodated this request from the National Office. Invitations went out to all KOV members as this meeting is open to all and we encourage members to make plans to attend each year. In addition to the Delegates’ Meeting that is a requirement under our By-Laws, the host chapter always plans some additional events that are sure to be enjoyed by all.

This year, Grand Commander Buddy Hagner and Master Lady Trish Hagner hosted all the out of towners along with Houston chapter members and guests at their home on Friday evening to spread out around their pool and yard and enjoy great wines, appetizers and a buffet dinner. It was the first time many had ventured into a crowd in a year or more. It was a beautiful and fun evening.

attendance and fourteen participating via Zoom.

Those chapters in attendance in person were Los Angeles, Houston, Tennessee, Gulf Coast and Lodi. The remaining chapters were represented on the Zoom event.

The business of the brotherhood was conducted with reports by all the national officers.

Buddy began by thanking all those who have participated in the virtual wine tastings held by the national organization including one with Gina Gallo.

Attendance has been very good and there will be more to come. Grand Treasurer Don Bade reviewed the financials which had been emailed out in advance of the meeting and took questions from those present or on Zoom.

International Emissary Pat Pingitore laid out the FICB

Saturday morning, having sworn off wine for a short period, we gathered at the Messina Hof Harvest Green Winery in Richmond, Texas for the 2021 Annual Meeting of Delegates.

There were several delegates in

The Arbor

BY GRAND ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER TOM WEBB

Supreme Lady Merrill Bonarrigo and Supreme Knight Paul Bonarrigo founders of Messina Hof Winery

plans for the next three years. There are a number of exciting opportunities and members are encouraged to begin making their plans to participate as these events are always exceptional! Jerry Gatlin continues to refine the chapter database software he developed for chapters to manage not only their contacts, but as a tool for event planning and management.

A number of chapters are utilizing this great tool and those that are not should investigate getting started. Jerry developed it specifically for KOV and made it available free of charge and offers chapters support in installing and using it.

Next up were Provost reports followed by our election of directors.

Don Bade, Ken Levy and Tom Webb were all re-elected to the Board of Directors by unanimous vote.

Finally, we heard from the Chapter Commanders who shared their methods of keeping their members in touch and any unique opportunities to hold chapter events. These varied but included emails, Zoom calls and KOV national virtual wine tastings.

After the meeting adjourned, our hosts, Paul and Merrill Bonarrigo, founders of Messina Hof Winery, talked about the wines that were carefully paired with a delicious lunch served in the Barrel Room. It was a great time together and we enjoyed having Paul and Merrill with us to talk about their decision to start Messina Hof Winery in 1977.

That evening, delegates joined with Houston chapter members and guests at the Royal Sonesta Hotel to induct new members, to eat and drink well, and to dance and party, as Houston does so well.

We hope to see you at our next National Meeting hosted by the Lodi Chapter and planned for April 7 – April 10 in Lodi and Murphys, California. Be watching for news as those plans are finalized.

Summer/Fall 2021

2022

NATIONAL MEETING April 7-10, 2022 Lodi and Murphys, California Plans are in the early stages and details will be shared as soon as possible. We can, however, share the dates and the locations so you can start making your plans now! The Lodi Chapter will host our next Annual Meeting. This meeting is open to all members in good standing. A part of the plans will include the Delegates’ Meeting on Saturday morning, April 9. This meeting is open to all, but only delegates may participate and vote. On Thursday evening, Chapter Commander and Gentle Lady Gordon and Annette MacKay will host a reception at their home in Lodi. KOV member wineries will welcome visitors to the Lodi area during the weekend. The Friday evening and Saturday night events will be held at Ironstone Winery in Murphys, California and will celebrate new members to their chapter and the raising of Gail Kautz to Supreme Lady. Please watch your email for more information and make your plans to join us!

How to Go Wine Tasting

San Francisco

In recent times, wine tasting has ripened into a very chic activity, leaving many people bottled up with a great deal of confusion as to how it’s properly done. Throw in a worldwide pandemic and everyone is virtually drinking.

Consequently, you end up with a maniacal menagerie of masked sippers thirsty to hit the tasting rooms with masks on and inhibitions off. For this jaunt, grab a glass and a shapely long necked bottle of something with an unpronounceable label and alcohol % within your comfort range and join me as we uncork the exquisite mystery of tasting wine.

Braving the Tasting Rooms Are you venturing outside home base to test the fruits in first person? Times have changed. Make a reservation.

Call ahead. Call a friend. Call your vaccine buddy. Ask Jeeves. Then pick a designated driver, preferably Jeeves, or the guy who has either lost his taste buds or is too young to drink. Your car has probably been locked in garage darkness since New Year’s Eve 2020 so jumpstart the Cordoba and head to wine country. Better yet, rent an embarrassingly large car so you and your masked tasting amigos can enjoy the fruits of the valley’s labor free from guilt and wreckage. Your loved ones will thank you later.

Choose a Flight Wine tasting can involve some fairly rigorous standing for long periods of time, depending on what size flight you pick. For your safety, this flight is firmly planted on solid ground. “Flights” refer to the choice of varietals presented by a winery for tasting. Some may offer a flight of three selections, while others will want you to taste every wine they’ve produced in the last five years.

This may require stamina and maybe a run through the In N Out drive-through before attempting to consume. After all, a #1 wins every time! Otherwise, a few too many sips and next thing you know, you’re signing on the wine club’s dotted line, helplessly watching as two cases of Ultra-Premium-Re$erve is merrily carted out to your Chrysler.

16

By Fran Benavidez Dress to Swill Many tasting rooms have gift shops where they offer wine themed jewelry, clever hats and polo shirts bearing the winery’s logo. There really is no formal dress code for what to wear while you taste except masks are required, at least at the time of this writing. By the time you finish reading this, the law will have changed several times so no guarantees on accuracy. I have observed a sign that declares, “We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone appearing intoxicated,” which leads me to believe that, a) One could wander in, dressed as a boom-boom girl, but who does not appear to be intoxicated, and swig away. (My guess is she walked in wearing the mask backward), or b) Mummy’s precious white Peki-schpoodle, who holds court in a Coach handbag, could partake in a nip or two of Screaming Beagle, as long as she is 21 in dog years and her bark is not as slurred as her bite. (My guess is she’s not a service animal.)

One note of caution: do not wear white, especially while tasting reds, which, according to a color wheel, will turn your shirt pink. If it’s white you must wear, then you must also carry a handy Tide stick to lessen the damage to wine-sensitive wear. Then again, just wear the red, pink and white blend with courage and pride knowing you’ve made it this far. Most importantly, leave the fragrant hand cream, cotton candy lip balm and perfume HOME. Tasters want to smell the honeysuckle coming out of their glass, not from your Gucci. The only attention you will draw will be the indignation of every taster in the room and you will be extricated from the winery, nose first.

Wearing a nice pair of jeans works well, just as Bob Mondavi must have slipped on a pair from time to time, as he plodded through the vineyards. A pair of Levi 5Opus1’s, anybody? Pandemic protocol being what it is, was and will be, be comfortable but cover the basics and leave the work jammies at the home office.

What Would Robert Parker Do? On the infinite subject of swirling your wine glass, or “oxygenating,” as it is known, many intimidating and long-winded wine guides have deliberated as to whether one should raise the glass or set the goblet on the counter, then swirl. This practice helps to “open up the

The Arbor

SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA

flavors” in the wine. If the foremost authority in the wine industry, Robert Parker, walked into the room at this moment, I might be compelled to raise my glass and whirl away. Parker’s well-paid palate is to the wine industry what Alan Greenspan’s financial opinion meant to our economy back in the day. At any prime rate, I’ll bet Parker pops his corks just like the rest of us. I wonder if he carries a Tide stick. More to the point, can he repeat “Vouvray!!” 10 times, really fast?

Nirvana in a Glass After swirling your modest pour, burrow your nose deep into the goblet. That’s right, now further. People blessed with hook-shaped noses are physically superior at perfecting this technique. Close your eyes and inhale deeply.

In wine circles, this looks surprisingly cool and you will become popular with other fellow wineauxs. What do you smell? A bowl of ripe cherries mixed with a dozen pink roses on the mid-palate, followed by a hint of Corinthian leather, with just a flicker of barnyard on the finish? It’s all there. The more you can smell the hipper you will appear, causing fellow wine tasters to form a semi-circle around the bar as they practically lift you upon their shoulders, chanting over your every observation. Through transcendence, they too, will smell the cherries and maybe even a barnyard hen or two. Give yourself a pat on the back for detecting the aromas of “fresh hay,” click your Keds together and repeat “Vooway!!” ten times, really fast.

Save the Best for Last Now that you’ve settled into your tasting routine, you will notice the boom-boom girl has just left the building with a case of Lust and Robert Parker’s Tide stick. At the other end of the counter, Fifi’s Chateau La Paws have turned to an interesting shade of blush rosé, and she’s backing barkward. And, is that a wine label stuck to your forehead? Now grab your tasting notes and repeat “Whoozray!!” ten times, really, really, really fast.

Finally, raise the glass to your eager mouth and longingly slurp the wine between your waiting lips. Close your eyes and swish the juice around like mouthwash, savoring all the decadent flavors as they languorously bathe over your tongue, then swallow. Open your eyes, turn sideways toward your tasting buddies, who will undoubtedly be rolling in hysterics behind wine-soaked masks (remove before sipping next time), smack your lips together, and proclaim, “Ahhh…this stuff tastes pretty good to me.”

Summer/Fall 2021

CHAPTER REPORT Early 2021 was a disappointing continuation of our difficult 2020 year with restrictions, COVID surges and closures. Not until June 14th did California “open up”. That did not deter us from persisting and participating in Zoom Virtual tastings along the way and taking advantage of our talented Supreme Knights and their winery connections.

At our suggestion, the Washington Chapter’s Supreme Knight Allen Shoup and Master Knight and Winemaker Gilles Nicault hosted the entire KOV National membership in a tour of 4 great high scoring wines from their beautiful Long Shadows Winery in Walla Walla. Our chapter took advantage, as many Chapters across the country did! Locally, a large group gathered at the Pingitore’s to share the experience paired with fabulous charcuterie boards as only Linda Pingitore can create.

We have plans for live events in the coming months including our Assemblage at Raymond Vineyards in September and a “Sail on the Bay” cruise in mid-October! Also, for those of you visiting the Napa or Sonoma Valleys in the following months, our Master Scribe Fran Benavidez provides the following guidelines as only she can!

Lise & Vince Ciolino, Paul & Anne Villerme with Linda Pingitore

Paul & Anne Villerme, the Pingitores,Trippes (standing), Baskervilles & Vince Ciolino

17

Orange County

May 22 Knight John and Kim Beaney hosted our

group at their lake front home in Lake Forest for an evening of SMOOTH JAZZ. Kim and John are very well connected in the professional music industry and during the pandemic have had a number of their musician friends gather each Saturday evening for a few hours to play a variety of music on their dock. From classical to 1940s, to pop and jazz, they have hosted some 60 performances. While the groups play on the Beaney’s dock, neighbors sit in their boats and enjoy the great music. Our KOV members were privileged to sit on their comfortable and spacious patio and enjoy the same all the while being treated to delicious appetizers and wine. This was one of the few good things that came out of the pandemic. Now that the Covid spread is declining, the need to find ways to gather like this aren’t as necessary. It was sure a bright spot during a difficult time. Thank you, John and Kim, for a great relaxing and fun experience.

Kris, Shannon, Kim, Cheri, Linda

June 26 We went to a GARDEN PARTY to remi-

nisce with our old friends–a chance to share old memories–and drink some wine again! Hosted by Knight and Gentle Lady David and Edy Gautschy, forty members of the Orange County Chapter came together in Dove Canyon. Party goers spent a late afternoon taking in the beautiful vistas of the Saddleback Mountains and surrounding scenery as they watched the orange sunset transform into a silver moon.

Kris, Barb, Mary, Rhea

This was our chapter’s first Garden Party and members were treated to comfortable surroundings outside under a large tent equipped with fans so temperatures were quite pleasant. Always generous, our members opened up their cellars and brought a variety of great wines and appetizers to share. Special thanks to Dianna Bulkeley and Barb Losee for providing amazing desserts.

It was a wonderful event and we were all so happy to get back together. Thank you, Edy and David, for a special afternoon.

18

John, Bill, Linda, Cheryl and Randy

The Arbor

The Dock

April 25 For many years, our Chapter

Our hosts Edy & Dave Gautschy

has held our own Academy Awards festivities which included the predictions of winners and the awarding of statuettes. However, this year the Academy Awards proceeded on April 25 at Union Station in downtown Los Angeles without our parallel event. Our members really were not up to watching this year, so we gathered instead at the home of Knight Steve Bulkeley and his lady Dianna in Coto De Caza to have an UN-ACADEMY AWARDS party. Yes, there may have been a red carpet downtown, but those attendees all had to contend with the traffic, a cramped venue and the street people of downtown Los Angeles while our group mingled and was comfortable enjoying a cornucopia of delicacies and fine wine in a much more welcoming venue!

Thank you, Steve and Dianna, for always being so willing to open up your beautiful home for our Chapter!

By Tom McCrystal Bill, Martin, Stan 19

HOUSTON CHAPTER CONT’D FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Leading with

Quality & Innovation KOV Supreme Knight Scott Scheid and his family have been major contributors to innovation and growth in the wine industry in Monterey County, California for nearly 50 years. In 1972, when the wine region was in its infancy, Scheid’s father Al began growing grapes to sell to other wineries as a financial investment. At the time, the company was called Monterey Farming Corporation, and positioned itself as producers of high quality premium grapes. Seeing opportunity in the untapped wine market, the company purchased additional acreage of unplanted parcels and then, as the California wine industry began its unprecedented growth, produced bulk wine to meet the wineries’ increasing demand for quality juice. As the world of wine continued to expand, the Scheid family saw yet another opportunity: to create a grapes-to-glass business of authentic and elegant wines that could compete on the global stage.

Today, while still selling grapes and bulk wine, the company (now called Scheid Family Wines), produces over 700,000 cases annually of estate-grown wines at its state-of-the-art winery near Greenfield, California in the Salinas Valley. The wines are sold under seven brands with distribution in all 50 states and 20 international markets. The company also produces nationally and regionally distributed exclusive brands for specific clients and distributors.

Scott joined Scheid Family Wines in 1986 after working as an options trader with E.F. Hutton and Co. in New York City. He served as Vice President and then chief operating officer until 2000 when he became president. During this time, he has overseen the ever-increasing growth of Scheid Family Wines

20

and upheld the company’s reputation as a problemsolver for wineries, as well as an innovator in producing high-quality, sustainable wines. Scheid, like his father before him, is a dedicated supporter of the California wine industry. He has served as Vice Chairman of the California Association of Winegrape Growers (cofounded by Al Scheid) and as President of Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association. He is currently a District Director for the California Wine Institute. The Scheid family is actively involved in the Monterey community. The company is the wine sponsor for the Monterey Jazz Festival, the longest running jazz festival in the world, and supports many local charities through donations, leadership, pouring at events and teaching. Scheid’s wife Nancy helped establish the local chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and in 2016 was named the organization’s Woman of the Year. Scheid’s sister Heidi, who joined the family business in 1992 and now serves as executive vice president, won the 2020 Person of the Year Wine Star award by Wine Enthusiast magazine.

The award highlights individuals who have made outstanding achievements over the past year in the wine and alcoholic beverage world.

The Arbor recently caught up with Scott Scheid at his home in Monterey County. An active supporter of KOV, Scott was eager to share his family’s place in the history of winemaking in Monterey County, as well as his enthusiasm for KOV.

By Nan McCreary continued >>>

The Arbor

Orange County

Supreme Knight

Scott Scheid

Summer/Fall 2021

21

The Arbor (TA): How did you first develop an interest in wine?

Scott Scheid (SS): We are a financial family who found our way into the wine business. My father, who lived in Southern California, was an investment banker by trade. As post-war Americans adopted more aspects of European cultures, he predicted that wine would become a part of that, and there wouldn’t be enough grapes in all of California to supply the demand. He saw opportunity in that market, and consulted with A.J. Winkler, noted viticulturist at the University of California at Davis, to determine the best area for grape growing. Winkler advised him that Monterey County was not only suitable for growing high quality wine grapes, but also was an untapped market. Plus, land was more affordable than in Napa or Sonoma. Al gathered a group of investors, formed limited partnerships, and bought land to grow wine grapes contracted to statewide wineries. The plan was that after the vineyards were planted and in full production, the wineries would buy out the contracts and own the vineyards. That was the exit strategy for the investors. As it turned out, the vineyards were successful and so were the wineries as demand for wine grew nationwide, but after 14 years, they were still not ready to buy out their grape contracts.

TA: This is when you joined the company, right?

SS: Yes, I had returned from New York and was still working for E.F. Hutton. My dad asked me if I was going to be a stockbroker for the rest of my life, which was his way of inviting me to join the company and explore together the opportunity he saw for us to grow the business. While our winery customers did not want to purchase our vineyards, they were continuing to buy our grapes per their contracts, and the demand for wine was increasing. During this time, we were improving our vineyards and providing grapes to an expanding base of wine companies, including Heublein, Vintners International, Kendall Jackson, Trinchero, Gallo, Fetzer and others. With the wine business taking off, we decided to reinvest in the business and by the end of 1996, we had bought out the last partners.

22

TA: Was producing bulk wine part of your plan?

SS: Not in the beginning. But by the late 90s, the wineries were overloaded. They were running out of capacity and didn’t want to build more wineries in Napa or Sonoma. The big wineries, in particular, needed others to make wine for them so they could invest more in marketing and distributing their products. In California, our reputation preceded us for solving supply problems, so certain winery customers asked us to make wine for them instead of delivering grapes. For five years or so, we made wine for such customers by sending our grapes to other wineries to be made into wine for them. This is called custom crush. By 2004, we were custom crushing at seven wineries, including Wente Vineyards, Castoro Cellars and Golden State Vintners in order to make wine for our customers. We had specifications and wine making styles to meet and spent a lot of time being the squeaky wheel at the custom crush wineries to make sure they were proceeding according to our customer’s wishes.

TA: How were you able to keep up with all of this growth?

SS: Innovation is one of our core values, and we realized that we needed more crush capacity, so we began investigating options for building a state-of-theart winery at our Hacienda Vineyard near Greenfield in Monterey County. We spent a year visiting all of our friends’ winery facilities — Trinchero, Gallo, Coppola, Bogle, many others— to learn best practices and see what could work for us. Finally, in early 2005, we made a $25 million initial investment and built the first phase of our winery. That year, we had a big harvest, and filled the winery with grapes. In 2006 and 2007 we expanded the winery, then built a bottling facility a few years later.

TA: When did you begin growing and marketing your own wine?

SS: Actually, we produced our first wines under the Scheid Vineyards label in 1989. It is our family brand and has remained a small production highend portfolio of our best wines - about 10,000 cases each year. It is mostly sold direct-to-consumer and is available in our two tasting rooms: one at the winery in Greenfield and the other in Carmel. We have about

The Arbor

3,000 members in our Scheid Vineyards Wine Club today. So, our family brand was a very small part of our business over the years while we continued operating our grape growing and bulk wine business, but about the time of the 2008 recession we began to consider whether to make wines for national distribution. We had all the tools we needed: 4,000 acres of vineyards that had been upgraded and modernized with vineyard information systems, including irrigation and data sensors, skill at winemaking for many diverse customers in a new state-of-the-art winery and a spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship. Coming out of the recession, we acquired our first distributor, and began selling wholesale finished wines into the market. This was like starting a new business: we had added the third leg to the stool (in addition to selling grapes and bulk wine), so we had to consider warehousing, bottling, marketing, a national sales team and compliance with state and national laws; all of the things that go along with vertical integration in the wine business.

It’s been 11 years since we made that decision, and we’ve had great growth, even with Covid. We will ship over 700,000 cases of wine this year which includes our own global brands as well as a large business making exclusive wines for companies like Kroger,

Aldi, Safeway, Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s that are available only at their stores.

TA: You now market your wines with over seven different brands. Tell us about this strategy.

SS: Our brands are about what the market wants — that’s the end game. Since the beginning, we have taken opportunities to solve supply problems for the industry. As wines became more a part of the culture, we began growing grapes. And then as demand grew, we supported growth of the wineries with bulk wine.

Now we are supporting our own growth, and making wines that consumers want. Our brightest brand right now is Sunny With a Chance of Flowers. It includes a Sauvignon Blanc, a Chardonnay and a Pinot Noir.

It’s in the trending “Better-for-You” category, with zero sugar, 9% alcohol by volume and 85 calories per five ounce serving. A Rosé and a Cabernet will be added next year. Our globally distributed portfolio also includes District 7, Ryder Estate, Ranch 32, Metz Road, VDR, and Stokes’ Ghost. continued >>>

Father and son Supreme Knights Al and Scott Scheid

Summer/Fall 2021

23

TA: You said you grow 39 different grape varieties. Why so many?

SS: We love experimenting with different varieties and flavors in the diverse appellation of Monterey.

It gives us a “spice rack” in the winery for creating and blending wines. This has served us well for our winery customers as well as our new business delivering finished wines to consumers. Our Scott Scheid in full Cadre Officer regalia vineyards are located over a spread of 70 miles between two mountain ranges in the Salinas Valley with daily winds emanating from the Monterey Bay, so we have many different microclimates. Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot do well in the south, near Paso Robles, and Pinot Noir and Chardonnay prosper further north toward Greenfield and Soledad. While the daily temperatures vary, all of the vineyards are cold at night, and this diurnal range is great for grape growing. We consider ourselves to be Pinot Noir specialists; we grow 20 different clones on six different vineyards.

TA: Tell us about your involvement with KOV. SS: Our company mission is “bringing people together to enjoy and savor life.” That ties in with KOV because today wine is most often used to bring family and friends together. We see wine as more and more a part of American culture, especially in social media and new trends, such as the “Better-for-You” movement.

My dad is a Supreme Knight (elevated in 1989) and he sponsored me when I joined the Monterey Chapter in 1998. I served on the Chapter Cadre for many years, and really enjoyed planning and working on events. It’s a great group, because if there is anyone who enjoys and savors wine, it is the members of KOV! TA: Thank you for taking time to talk with us.

And congratulations on being elevated to Supreme Knight. It is obviously well-deserved.

SS: Thank you. I am happy to help in any way I can.

Scott Scheid with sister Heidi and father Al

TA: What are your goals for the future?

SS: Our vision statement says, “By the year 2025, Scheid Family Wines will become one of the most recognized wine producers in quality, innovation and sustainability in the world.” It’s a lofty goal, but it’s not impossible. We get feedback that our wines are excellent and over deliver for the price. We are increasing our organic vineyard acreage and have been sustainably certified for some time. In fact, we’re carbon negative. We generate 200% of the power we need to run our entire winery campus from a wind turbine that creates energy from the winds that sweep down the valley from the bay. As far as being known, we’re getting there. We are selling wines world-wide and have plans to keep growing. And in 2020, Heidi was awarded the Person of the Year Wine Star Award

by Wine Enthusiast.

24

The Arbor

FICB International Congress ~ REPORT

There is nothing much new to report on the International front since the last Arbor except that registration is now open for the Wine Challenge in Hungary.

Here is a recap Registration is now open for the 2nd FICB International Wine Challenge. This one will be in Hungary and hosted by the Order of the Ladies of Pannonia.

They have changed the order of visits so that now June 2-5, 2022 will be in Budapest and environs, and the extension June 5-7th will be in the Eger and world famous Tokaj regions. Details are on the FICB website (www.winebrotherhoods.org).

The next General Assembly will be held in Paris on Saturday, January 29, 2022. Remember any member of any Brotherhood is invited to attend this meeting which is always followed by a wonderful lunch in the Maison du Vin accompanied by shared wines of the attending Brotherhoods - a wonderful event in uncrowded Paris at this time of the year!

Per Vitem, Ad Vitam!!

Important to note that space is limited to 100 persons. First come first served!

The Portugal Congress is confirmed for May 24-28, 2023 in Oporto, and in the Vino Verde & Duoro regions, followed by the Extension, May 28-30 in Lisbon and Alentejo regions. There will be no capacity limits for this event. The Organizers will be putting together a commemorative book with information on all of the attending Brotherhoods. We expect registration to begin in the Spring of 2022.

There has been no date set for a potential Wine Discovery Tour (a small 40-50 person event) in the Madeira region of Spain, potentially later this fall or next. I will share the information as soon as it is made available to the Board of Administration.

There has been no talk of mandatory vaccinations for any of the above events, but I would not be surprised if there is some form of requirement as this pandemic drags on. Please be prepared to avoid disappointment!

Summer/Fall 2021

Pat Pingitore

~ International Emissary

25

FEATURING

Engine 8 Winery Lake Tahoe

by Veronica Kaufman

On May 23, Engine 8 Winery in Sparks, Nevada was the scene of our KOV first “coming out from behind our masks” wine tasting event. Thirty happy and vaccinated people were glad to see each other, hug each other, and enjoy wine tasting again with friends.

Mike and Wendy Rawson, the owners of Engine 8 and natives of Nevada, treated us to a varied and delicious not-so-small bites afternoon paired with wines they made from grapes sourced from Lodi, California as Nevada isn’t famous for its wine growing regions.

However, apparently there is a Nevada law that has recently gone into effect that will require 25% of the grapes to be sourced from Nevada. Hmmm, this could provide a challenge.

Our first bites, little pizzas with Hawaiian pineapple, were served with a light, slightly tart Riesling.

This tasty combination was followed by “Steel” Chardonnay and a plate of cheese and salami slices. Barbera, accompanying a smoky wild boar sausage bite, was next and then their Malbec accompanied a yummy lamb pop. These small bites and their well paired wines ensured that none of us went hungry or thirsty!

The final pairing was a delicious chocolate truffle and a surprising meet-up with Pinot Noir.

All of us in this chapter owe Master Commander Ernie Grossman and Master Lady Margaret Lewicki and Master Lady and Charge D’Affaires Stephanie Harris a huge thank you for working with the Rawson’s for a very memorable event and a much appreciated afternoon together.

26

The Arbor

MUSIC FOR A WHILE…….

By Veronica Rollman Kaufman

The Grossman gardens once again hosted our Lake Tahoe Chapter for a special treat: The Toccata-Tahoe Symphony Orchestra and a Musical Soiree on a lovely Saturday afternoon.

KOV members and friends gathered on June 26 at the pavilion in the Grossman gardens at 3 p.m. to first enjoy light appetizers and spirits. This was not to be a wine tasting, but a Pops and Opera tasting!

James Rawie, who, with his wife Nancy, worked to create the Toccata over 20 years ago, conducted and pleasantly surprised us with a classical concert replete with Operatic Arias. The orchestra is not only blessed with talented, experienced musicians, but also with members who bring fine operatic voices and who have performed with nationally known orchestras.

Liudmilla Mullin (mezzo soprano), Brad Perry (tenor), Stuart Duke (baritone) and Jamie Bonetto (soprano) delighted us with arias and duets from Rigoletto’s La Donna e Mobile, Carmen’s L’amour est une Oiseau Rebelde, Pearlfishers’ Au fond du Temple Saint, Merry Widow’s Lippen Sweigen and The Hippopotamus Song ! For a little light change up, we also were treated to La Boheme’s Mi chiamo mimi and Stars from Les Miserables. Then there was the finale of La Traviata’s Libiamo ne’lieti calico.

It was not only a beautiful day in a beautiful setting, but a true blessing to be together in person once again, enjoying a live performance of wonderful operatic music and enjoying the company of both our friends and the musicians.

Summer/Fall 2021

27

received a score of 91 from renowned wine critic James Suckling in the tasting report, American Wine Revolution, a review excluding West Coast wineries. The new ExTERRA label was created as confirmation of the star quality of three single vineyard varieties deemed exceptional by the winemaking team.

Austin

Yes, a real party, with face-to-face people. It was a treat for the Austin Chapter’s Knights and Gentle Ladies gathered at the Driftwood Fall Creek Vineyard just south of the Capital City to enjoy wines, food, the outdoors and good company on April 25th.

The wine was indeed flowing and all the varietals were wonderful. The selections from Fall Creek Vineyards included their 2019 Fall Creek Chardonnay, Certenberg Vineyard; 2020 Fall Creek Vineyards Grenache Rosé, Salt Lick Vineyards; 2017 Fall Creek ExTERRA Tempranillo, Salt Lick; and the 2016 Fall Creek ExTERRA Mourvèdre. Supreme Knight Ed Auler and Supreme Lady Susan Auler, owners of Fall Creek, were all smiles and justly proud of their award winning wines and the pleased expressions on the guests’ faces.

The American Wine Revolution review continued, “Fall Creek’s Mouvèdre has proven its star quality the past 3 vintages, thus its place as 100% varietal wine in 2016. It is increasingly clear that Mourvèdre is an ideal variety for the clay-loam and limestone soils of the Hill Country.

The Mouvèdre is quite elegant with lively fruit character reminiscent of red and black plum and ripe tannins supporting the terrestrial flavors of farmland soil, sarsaparilla and morel mushroom. 18 months in 50% New French and American Oak.” As they were leaving, many guests decided to purchase a few bottles to take home and savor. It was a wonderful day of fun in the sun at Fall Creek and the harbinger of many more parties to come for the Austin Chapter.

Kelley & Travis Lightfoot

Needless to say, many conversations focused on how everyone had been coping with the pandemic. The situations talked about ranged from almost 100% lockdown to some travel. And it seemed as if everyone at the party had been vaccinated, which added to the feeling of relief about being able to enjoy the company of others – outside of one’s pod.

Austin Catering served a sumptuous spread of food which was a fine accompaniment to the stellar wines.

Many grateful guests remarked about how lucky we are to be able to enjoy their wines and that Susan and Ed are a significant part of our chapter’s success.

Towards the end of the party, Ed Auler was asked by Master Commander Jerry Gatlin to speak about the wines that were being served. He told of the awards that they had been receiving. For instance, Fall Creek Vineyards’ three newly released ExTERRA wines have all Story by Forrest Preece • Photos by Charles Quinn Photography

28

Ron Mullen, Lynnda Carter

Kandace & Dennis Eakin The Arbor

Ed Auler talked about the Fall Creek wine selections being served

Faith Roberts, Lawrence Browning, Curby Conoley

Hugh Collins, Marcy Melanson, and Cathy Collins Rose Betty and Allan Williams, Ed Auler

Harvey Kronberg and Susan Auler Dana & Dennis Jakubowicz

Linda Ball, Jerry Gatlin, Gerald Stone

Summer/Fall 2021

29

Chancellery

By Chik and Polly Brenneman

The Chancellery Chapter had our post-COVID “2021 Coming Out Party” on March 28th. Like many chapters we have not been able to hold in-person events for the last year and it was only fitting that the last event we had in 2020 was our crab feed, only to start back up in 2021 with the same. This was to be our ninth annual crab event and we were determined to make it happen! Our Chapter was itching to get out and socialize. Chancellery Chapter Chargé d’Affaires Polly Brenneman and Gentle Lady Barbara Walker took the reins and proceeded to plan a successful event.

However, behind the scenes was the most important player in this endeavor, The Crab Man! Who could that be? The one and only Chuck Kelley, of course! Chuck is well known in his crab endeavors from piloting the crab boats that went in and out of the harbor at Fort Bragg, California to seeking out the best price. On a side note, Chuck and Barbara hosted this event at their beautiful home on the banks of the Sacramento River for years one through six. Year one was before my time as the Chancellery Commander and I am indebted to Master Commander Ernie Grossman, of the Tahoe Chapter, for making that first year happen, and establishing our tradition. Hats off to Barbara, Chuck, Chancellery Vice Com-

30

mander Suzanne Oppegard and our Master Announcer Stan Oppegard to make these events happen for the next six years. With such a popular following, in the height of California crab season, we decided to move the event to other venues to accommodate more people.

In 2018, we moved the event to Baker Family Wines which I am proud to own along with one of major league baseball’s greatest players, coaches and managers, the one and only, Dusty Baker. Located in West Sacramento, the winery is in an urban industrial setting adjacent to the Port of West Sacramento and is the perfect place to view beautiful sunsets beyond the rice silos, packed with grain for export. Not quite as spectacular as the beautiful view we got at Barbara and Chuck’s place, but the ‘tongue in cheek’ consolation was that we didn’t have the noise of the jets on final approach to Sacramento International Airport interrupting our program. Perhaps I was the only one distracted back then as I love watching airplanes take off and land.

As California was still under the ‘current restrictions of the times’, we decided on a small event with 36 in attendance in a location where we could be outside.

Chuck and his crew of one, Dave Clesi, cleaned and cooked the crab and hot boiled shrimp appetizers. Dave’s Italian roots

The Arbor

kicked in when he saw Polly needed help with the pasta; a homemade marinara with penne. Dave put on his pasta hat and took over. Complementing the fare was Barbara’s Caesar salad and hot garlic bread. Wine, of course, was enjoyed by all, and flowed steadily throughout the evening.

If the last year has taught us anything, it is to think outside the box. Two of our newest members were in attendance. Steve and Claudia Siegal were supposed to be inducted in 2020 at our Spring Assemblage, which was canceled due to the new Covid restrictions.

I thought it would be fun to perform an informal induction and introduce them to the chapter.

We brought the sword and performed an abbreviated knighting, without revealing the mystery of the formal Assemblage.

We were lucky to have a beautiful evening; no rain and no heat lamps or extra blankets required. What a beautiful spring evening it was! We ended the evening with cookies, more wine, and the promise to gather again soon.

Summer/Fall 2021

31

HOUSTON...Where We Stay Busy!

Houston

By Trish Hagner

As we know, many adjustments had to be made to allow members and guests to come together safely and the Houston Chapter definitely found ways to do that.

February 11 found us at the home of Knight Lee Slataper and his lady, Laura, for our first Thirsty Thursday. Attendance was limited to 25 and the event was held outdoors.

Winter Storm Uri hit Houston on February 13 and left close to 4.5 million homes and businesses without power and killed more than 200 people statewide. Many of us were without power for over 48 hours. Those who had gas fireplaces were huddled around them and meals were uncertain as we struggled to find ways not only to try to find warmth and food, but information.

Then, many of us were forced to deal with flooding in our homes once again, but this time not from rising water, but rather from broken pipes! It was a mess and the demand for materials and contractors to make the repairs compounded the problem. A number of our members had to deal with this, but perhaps no one suffered more than our friends Lawrence and Terry Estes. As of this writing, they are still out of their home over 6 months later.

Speaking of Lawrence and Terry Estes, they had planned to host our next Thirsty Thursday, but obviously were unable to do so. So on March 11 Master Host Lee and Laura Slataper stepped up for those of us

still dealing with flooded homes under repair and welcomed us back to their beautiful home. At this point, we all needed a warm and friendly place to gather and be comforted.

Meanwhile, our Assemblage Committee worked on plans for our Assemblage Weekend. Since many of us had hoped to be heading to Italy for the rescheduled FICB Congress, we chose a theme for our Assemblage of “A Weekend in Italy”. Little did we know that would be our only trip to Italy this year when the Congress was ultimately cancelled. Our special guest for the weekend was Teresa McKinney, Founder and President of Delectatio Wines. She represents many Italian wines which were featured over the weekend.

We had the special pleasure of also hosting the National Meeting as a part of our Assemblage Weekend so on April 9, we opened our Assemblage Weekend with a casual event at the home of Grand Commander and Master Lady Buddy and Trish Hagner. It was a beautiful evening under the stars for the 69 people in attendance. A buffet of Italian foods was served and enjoyed along with Ardenghi Sparkling Rosé “Ametista”, Pagano 2019 White “Fabula” Falerno del Massico DOC, Dacapo 2018 GriTeresa McKinney of DelectatioWines

32

The Arbor

gnolino d’Asti “Renard” DOC and Dacapo 2018 Ruche Castagnole Monferrato “Majoli” magnums.

ton (Los Angeles), Bob Bennett (Tennessee) and Vice Commander Rich Moss (Gulf Coast). Following the ceremony, 75 members and guests checked out the silent auction items, bought raffle tickets and participated in the cork pull to raise money for the scholarships and other charitable activities of our chapter.

Saturday, April 10, found our dedicated committee that included Carolyn Blanchard, Tyri Centanni, Ginger Covington, Lulu Curtice, Terry Estes, Nan McCreary, Lois Van Vooren and Michelle Wise hard at work setting up the Ballroom at the Royal Sonesta Hotel for the Enthronement Ceremony, Dinner, Dancing and Silent Auction. What an amazing job they did!

Chef Robert Graham prepared an exquisite meal and it was beautifully paired with our Italian wines. Let your eyes feast on our menu!

We had arranged for the Delegates for the National Meeting to hold the Saturday morning meeting at Messina Hof Harvest Green followed by a lunch and we were fortunate to have the founders of Messina Hof, Supreme Knight and Supreme Lady Paul and Merrill Bonarrigo with us. They are not only the founders, but great friends and members of the Houston chapter and it was a treat to get to spend time with them and have them share their wines with us.

FIRST COURSE Buffalo Mozzarella with Charred Broccolini, Sourdough Croutons, Pesto, Lemon and Red Pepper Puree 2019 Pagano White “Falaghina”Tardiva, Compania IGT

Saturday evening found us all dressed up and ready to party! In order to maintain some social distancing, we held our Enthronement Ceremony in the Grand Ballroom of the Royal Sonesta Hotel where guests sat at their dinner tables. We were pleased to welcome new Gentle Lady Gina Rumore and Knights Steven Conner and John Tweed. It was also a great honor to welcome our Grand Administrative Officer Tom Webb, Chapter Commanders Gordon MacKay (Lodi), Jim Hamil-

Summer/Fall 2021

AMUSE BOUCHE 2018 Ardenghi Pinot Grigio “Valdomino” DOC,Veneto 2017 Dacapo Barbera d’Asti “Sanbastian” DOCG, Piemonte

SECOND COURSE Parmesan Polenta with Italian Sausage and Fennel Pesto Ragu 2019 Pagano “Piedirosso” Roccamonfina IGT THIRD COURSE Campanelle Pasta with Wild Mushrooms,Truffles & Madeira Cream 2017 Pagano Red “Gaurasi” Falerno del Massico DOC FOURTH COURSE Veal Osso Bucco with Au Jus and Saffron Risotto 2016 Dacapo Nizza Riserva DOCG FINALE Deconstructed Cannoli with Pistachio, Ricotta and Chocolate Ca’ed Balos n/v Late Harvest Bianco “Passito Dore”

continued >>>

33

HOUSTON CHAPTER CONT’D FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

And all the while we danced to the music of our favorite band, Checkered Past! We were so very happy to be back together and to share the evening with special friends from Los Angeles, Biloxi, Tennessee and Lodi! We loved having you and hope you’ll come back again and again!

We wrapped up the weekend with our traditional Sunday Brunch. It is always so special to spend this time together, to share updates about the wine industry from the experts in the room and to say “so long until next time”.

There is one last official “unofficial” event of the Assemblage weekend and that is when Buddy and Trish Hagner invite any out of towners still in town to the Original Ninfa’s on Navigation for an authentic TexMex dinner. Gordon and Annette MacKay were still in town and were also joined by Houston Vice Commander Jim Curtice and Lulu Curtice.

But April wasn’t over yet! Still basking in the success of our Assemblage, our chapter came together again on April 15 for another Thirsty Thursday hosted by Mark and Heidi Davis on their rooftop patio with views of the Houston downtown skyline. Supreme Knight Tom Eddy joined us via Zoom on May 13 for a Thirsty Thursday gathering hosted by Buddy and Trish Hagner.

May 26 found us with an opportunity to have a dinner at Ouisie’s Table and a dinner featuring Stags Leap Wine Cellars. Our first course was braised short rib bruschetta with 2019 “Aveda” Sauvignon Blanc. The cucumber and smoked salmon rolls we enHosts Laura & Lee Slataper joyed next were paired with 2018 “Karia” Chardonnay. The first entrée was a seared Mediterranean branzino with 2018 “Hands of Time” Pinot Noir. The second entrée was prime grilled beef tender medallions with 2018 “Hands of Time” Red Blend. Dessert was a hazelnut napoleon with 2018 “Artemis” Cabernet Sauvignon.

34

In addition to all of our live events, we also hosted or participated in three virtual tastings: March 16 with Fullerton Wines in Oregon, May 18 tasting with Ian White of Smith Devereux in Napa, and Supreme Knight Allen Shoup and Master Knight Gilles Nicault and Long Shadows Winery in Walla Walla, Washington. Many of our members hosted groups in their homes so there were many tasting going on among our members!

Looking ahead, our calendar is full and even includes plans for our 2022 Assemblage on April 29 – May 1 so please make your plans now to join us! We truly can’t wait to see you!

International wine trends and updates by Teresa McKinney

The Arbor

Paul Bonarrigo with Texas wine update

Bruce Misamore with Arizona wine update

Stags Leap Wine Cellars Dinner at Ouisie’s

Gordon MacKay with Lodi wine update

David Miller with update on wines of Mexico

Assemblage Weekend Kickoff under the Texas Stars

March 11 – Thirsty Thursday Crowd

Buddy Hagner, Mike Lawch & Tyri Centanni join Tom Eddy via Zoom continued >>>

Summer/Fall 2021

35

In Memoriam Gaye Platt

Lady Master Commander Emeritus, Houston Chapter Gaye Platt passed unexpected on July 14 after just having celebrated her 80th birthday.

She was buried alongside her beloved husband of 33 years, Arthur Platt, in a private family graveside service. Her life, however, was celebrated on August 4 when family and friends came together to share stories and, of course, much wine.

Gaye was a founding member of our Chapter and served as Lady Master Commander for 13 years. She was truly one of a kind … in the best way possible! She was generous with her time, talents and treasure and not just to KOV. She and Arthur were well known in the Houston community for their charitable work. In 2019, Gaye, with a gathering of family and many friends established the Arthur and Gaye Platt Viticulture Fund and opened the Viticulture Laboratory at Texas A & M University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Department of Horticultural Sciences and, upon her passing, the Platt’s wine collection will pass to the university under the supervision of Supreme Knight Dr. George Ray McEachern.

In addition to her love of wine and KOV, Gaye was a generous and loyal supporter of the Honor Flight organization. As a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, she became aware of the mission of Honor Flight Arizona during a presentation at a meeting of the chapter in Prescott, Arizona while visiting her dear friend and a former KOV Houston member, Dorothy Castanos. In honor of Arthur, who was a veteran, she decided to sponsor an entire flight departing from Phoenix and she personally flew with that group of WWII veterans as a Guardian. Over the years, Gaye fully sponsored fourteen flights. Additionally, she sponsored eleven individual Guardians – sons or daughters of veterans who could not afford the cost of the trip. In late 2015 Gaye sponsored the Honor Flight Arizona’s 50th trip to Washington, DC. She planned to sponsor the 100th flight scheduled for 2022.

She was remarkable in so many ways and never sought the spotlight or any recognition. But the Houston Chapter exists and is strong because of her and of Arthur. They may be gone, but they will never be forgotten.

Peg Christensen Gentle Lady

Our chapter was saddened to learn of the sudden death of our sweet friend Peg Christensen on August 21, 2021. She and her husband, Arden (Chris) Christensen joined the Houston Chapter in 2003. To her, family was everything and good friends were also treated like family. She was an amazing cook and friend. She enjoyed life and was known the share her opinion on almost everything! She loved her wine and her animals as well. When trying to describe her in a few words, these come to mind … amazing … faithful … beautiful … determined (she defeated cancer in her 80s!) … well-traveled .. endearing. Her last instructions to her family were Go have some wine! And so, of course, they did.

36

The Arbor

The Brotherhood of the knights of the vine

Membership

application

Individual APPLICAtion: Mr. / Mrs. / Ms. / Dr. First _______________________________ Last _____________________________________ Phone ______________________________________ Email ________________________________________________ Mailing Address ____________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Occupation ________________________________________ Spouse’s Name __________________________________ Of what professional, scientific, fraternal or social organization are you a member? ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

special qualifications: List items of interest that reflect your support of the wines and vines of America (e.g. drink California wines) and any affiliations you may have with wine appreciation groups or gourmet societies in the world. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Signature of Applicant _______________________________________________________ Date _________________ Please include an initiation fee of $225, plus any local dues, if applicable.

Your initiation fee may be tax deductible if you are a member of the trade.

Does not include cost of Enthronement Dinner.

Make Check Payable to THE BROTHERHOOD OF THE KNIGHTS OF THE VINE Return your application and check to KOV National Office at 3345 Industrial Dr., Suite 16, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

sponsoring knight or gentle lady:

First Name _______________________________________

Last ____________________________________________ Phone _________________________________ Email _____________________________________________________ Title in Order _____________________________________ Chapter _________________________________________ Recommendations of the Sponsoring Knight or Gentle Lady_____________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Recommended Title in Order ________________________________________________________________________ Signature of Sponsoring Knight ________________________________________________ Date ________________

DISPLAY YOUR KNIGHTHOOD WITH PRIDE! order form Name _________________________ Address _______________________ City ___________________________ State ______ Zip ________________ Telephone _____________________ ficb medallion (not actual size)

This handsome medallion is from our FICB headquarters in Paris, France. We have a limited supply available for those members who have attended an FICB Wine Congress.

Order #FICB

$75.00

shield with motto

maltese cross

(Shown 50% of actual size) This striking badge of honor should be worn at any Black Tie formal event. Finish is enameled gold, white, red and green. Gentlemen’s version includes ribbon.

Order #MCR (with ribbon) $39.00 Order #MC (w/o ribbon) $25.00

medallion with wreath This classic cloisonné medallion with wreath is gold, red and green. It is available for those members with a rank of “Master” Knight/Lady and above. Gentleman’s version includes ribbon.

Order #MWR (with ribbon) $49.00 Order #MW (w/o ribbon) $35.00

This cloisonné Shield with Motto is green and red with gold lettering and comes with a military clutch fastener.

Order #SM $10.00

KOV Chapter ___________________ KOV Rank ______________________ Please send me the following items: Qty.

Item #

Price

Sub Total

Priority Shipping $6.95

Total $

Amount

Visa or MasterCard # ___________________________________ Exp:____________ 3 Digit Code ________ ~OR~ lapel pin (Shown actual size) This cloisonné pin is a miniature of the Knights of the Vine emblem. It has a gold background with pale green and red. It comes with a military clutch fastener.

Order #LPP $7.00

Make check payable to:

blazer crest emblem

lapel rosette

(Shown actual size) This tiny, discrete symbol of your membership in the Brotherhood is made in France from our red and green ribbon. It is perfect for both men and women. People will ask you about it.

Order #LPR $12.00

38

(Shown 50% of actual size) This handsome emblem is embroidered with threads of gold, green and red. It comes with your choice of either a “clutch back” with 3 pins & clips or a magnetic bar for quick and easy mounting and removal.

Order #BPEP (Clutch Back) $36.00 Order #BPEM (Magnetic Bar) $36.00

Knights of the Vine 3345 Industrial Drive, Suite 16 Santa Rosa, CA 95403-2060 Tel: (707) 579-3781 per vitem!

ad vitam!

You may order these items on the KOV website store

The Arbor

Active Chapters ARIZONA Arizona Chapter Commander Darren Jones 5425 E Broadway Blvd #261 Tucson, AZ 85711 Phone: 520-730-5203 darrenj506@gmail.com

Orange County Chapter Commander Thomas E. McCrystal 24001 Muirlands # 76 Lake Forest, CA 92630 Phone: 949-582-9253 Fax: 949-582-9036 cpg@cox.net

CALIFORNIA Chancellery Chapter Com. Charles “Chik” Brenneman 820 Fremont Way Sacramento, CA 95818 Phone: 916-441-3466 charlesbrenneman@gmail.com

San Francisco Bay Area Chapter Commander Pat R. Pingitore 19 Aviara Court Napa, CA 94558 Phone: 707-965-2868 prpingitore@gmail.com

Lake Tahoe Region Chapter Commander Ernest D. Grossman P.O. Box 3817 Truckee, CA 96160 Phone: 530-550-0570 Fax: 530-550-0575 ernestgrossman@sbcglobal.net Lodi Chapter Commander Gordon MacKay P.O. Box 506 Lodi, CA 95241-0506 Phone: 209-663-9432 gmackay01@gmail.com Los Angeles Chapter Commander James Hamilton 755 Lakefield Road, Suite A Westlake Village, CA 91361 Phone: 805-496-1304 (day) Fax: 805-494-3976 jbhamilton@sbcglobal.net Monterey Peninsula Chapter Commander Richard Kehoe P. O. Box 221664 Carmel, CA 93922 Phone: 831-277-9868 831-625-3338 kehoedc@sbcglobal.net

MISSISSIPPI Gulf Coast Chapter Commander John Boothby P.O. Box 7617 Gulfport, MS 39506 Phone 228-897-1995 228-897-1993 kovgulfcoast@gmail.com Jackson Chapter Contact National Office 3345 Industrial Drive, Ste. 16 Santa Rosa, CA 95403 707-579-3781

NORTH CAROLINA North Carolina Chapter Commander Jeff Price 9404 North Manor Dr Zebulon, NC 27597 Phone: 919-814-2453

919-696-6679 JeffreyHPrice0602@gmail.com

TENNESSEE Tennessee Chapter Commander Bob Bennett 4562 Whisperwoods Drive Collierville, TN 38017 Phone: 901-861-4739 Cell: 954-557-7775 bobbennett13@gmail.com TEXAS Austin Chapter Commander Jerry Gatlin 901 West 9th Street, Apt. 601 Austin, TX 78703 Phone: 512-797-3898 jerrygatlin@gmail.com Houston Chapter Commander Buddy Hagner 4448 W. 12th Street Houston, TX 77055 Phone: 713-819-9463 Fax: 713-432-9464 buddy@rchagner.com WASHINGTON, D.C. Nation’s Capital Chapter Commander Kenneth A. Haapala 9634 Boyett Court Fairfax, VA 22032 Phone: 703-978-6025 (day)

703-978-6230 (evening) Fax: 703-978-2258 ken@haapala.com WASHINGTON STATE Washington State Chapter Contact National Office 3345 Industrial Drive, Ste. 16 Santa Rosa, CA 95403 707-579-3781

Supreme Knights Bradley Alderson David G. Armanasco Ed Auler Ted Balestreri Warren W. Bogle, Jr Paul V. Bonarrigo James “Bo” Barrett David Berkley Jean-Charles Boisset George H. Carter Mark Chandler James E. Coleman Richard A. Cuneo Frederick Dame Dennis Devine Lucian W. Dressel Gordon R. Dutt, Ph.D. Gary Eberle Tom Eddy Dick Erath Joseph S. Franzia Jeryl R. Fry, Jr. Jack Galante Miljenko M. Grgich Gary B. Heck Timo Jokinen John H. Kautz Aram Kinosian John K. Ledbetter Lloyd G. Magee George R. McEachern, Ph.D. John P. McClelland J. Douglas Meador R. Michael Mondavi Timothy J. Mondavi Justin Morris, Ph.D. Robert Pellegrini Richard Peterson, Ph.D. Mathew J. Post G.M. “Pooch” Pucilowski George Radanovich Alfred G. Scheid Scott Scheid Thomas B. Selfridge Allen Shoup Raymond Skinner, Jr. Christopher D. Smith Howard E. Somers Richard H. Sommer Mike Thompson Peter H. Ventura Richard P. Vine, Ph.D. Fay Wheeler Al Wiederkehr Warren P. Winiarski John H. Wright

Supreme Ladies

visit us online at

www.kov.org Join KOV on Facebook! or online @ www.kov.org

Susan Auler Heidi Peterson Barrett Merrill Bonarrigo Gina Gallo Genevieve Janssens Gail Kautz Zelma R. Long Michaela K. Rodeno Jean R. Wente

The national Facebook page is a closed group and we invite you to join in at Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine.You’ll find similar names with many chapters having their own page as well.

Summer/Fall 2021

39

®

the brotherhood of the knights of the vine

National Headquarters 3345 Industrial Drive, Suite 16 Santa Rosa, CA 95403-2060 Tel: (707) 579-3781

Water separates the people of the world; wine unites them.

per vitem! ad vitam!

Through the vine, toward life!