ARBOR Winter Spring 2020

IN THIS ISSUE: WINE CRITIC’S SCORES & EVALUATIONS: DOES IT MATTER? GEORGE RAY MCEACHERN: THE TEXAS WINE GUY FICB INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS ~ REPORT

Winter/Spring 2020

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Table of Contents Chapters Houston ...............................................4 Los Angeles ..........................................10 Nation’s Capital ....................................12 Lodi......................................................15 Arizona .................................................16 Austin...................................................20 Orange County.....................................23 North Carolina .....................................26 Lake Tahoe ...........................................34 San Francisco........................................40 Gulf Coast ............................................42 Tennessee..............................................46 Chancellery...........................................48 Monterey .............................................50

National Headquarters

3343 Industrial Drive, Suite 2, 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, Kenneth A. Haapala, Ken Hick, Ken Levy, Terrance K. McCleerey, 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

Feature Articles Wine Critic’s Scores & Evaluations: Does it Matter?....................................18

by Claire L. Torbeck, Certified Sommelier

George Ray McEachern: The Texas Wine Guy............................28

by Nan McCreary

FICB International Congress ~ REPORT..............................................52 Pat Pingitore ~ International Emissary

In Every Issue Members In the News...........................44 Application...........................................9 Accessories ............................................54 Directory ..............................................55

Kenneth A. Haapala, Grand Vice Commander Donald D. Bade, Grand Treasurer Tom Webb, Grand Administrative Officer • webbtom@bellsouth.net Pasquale “Pat” Pingitore, International Emissary Terrance K. McCleerey, Grand Commander Emeritus

~

Carol L. Bade, Executive Director

Provosts Provost General, Northeastern United States Dave Barber d a 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: 3343 Industrial Dr., Suite 2, 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 ©2020‑ ALL RIGHTS RESERVED, The Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine, Inc.

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From the

Commander’s Desk The Greek philosopher, Heraclitus, said “the only constant in life is change” and while that seems simple enough, it’s harder that one might think when life is impacted in ways we could never have imagined; and the changes can be dramatic. What you can be sure of is that, no matter the circumstances, we are all going through this together and the bond that we have formed within our chapters and beyond, will become more and more important as we learn to lean on each other in trying times. Much like when some of our members were impacted by Hurricane Harvey or the wildfires in California, the caring that was shown by our members to those hurting and in need was fantastic and it is that caring now that we must remember.

For a moment, I hope you will take a few minutes to read about all the comraderie and great times that we have shared as we look forward to many more. While a number of events including Assemblages have been cancelled or postponed, a number have already taken place and we’ll hear about those in the next issue of The Arbor. In this issue, you’ll read about all the great events our chapters have held in the latter part of 2019. The types of events and wide variety of wines shared are impressive! It was truly my honor to be able to attend a number of those events from a tasting in Monterey with Eric Wente to the re-birth of our North Carolina Chapter at their Assemblage.

You’ll also see a great interview of Supreme Knight Dr. George Ray McEachern who is known in Texas as “the wine guy” since he was there at the very beginning of the Texas wine industry. The FICB Update reports on that organization and lots of upcoming plans. Unfortunately, as this goes to press, it looks unlikely that the 2020 Congress in Italy will be taking place, but the official announcement or any information about cancellation or postponement is not yet known. When it is, we will post an update on our website.

Our National Meeting planned for April 23-26 in Santa Rosa, California has been changed. Because our By-Laws require us to take care of certain business (finances and election of officers, in particular), we are in the process of setting up a way to hold the required business meeting remotely.

We thank the San Francisco Bay Area Chapter for all the hard work that was done to host us in Sonoma Valley and we hope to make plans to travel there; perhaps for the next National Meeting!

Be well and take care of each other. That’s what a Brotherhood does best.

per vitem! ad vitam!

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

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The

FUN

Houston

We just don’t know when to stop! With a large chapter and a very active membership, we are blessed with lots of opportunities to gather and it doesn’t take much for us to make plans to do just that!

The second half of 2019 was as busy as the first and started with our Ladies of the Knight coming together for Rosé All Day in July. We gathered at the home of Gentle Lady Kathy Long over some beautiful rosés and lots of appetizers prepared by the ladies. Always a great time and a perfect way to share news of what our chapter is doing in hopes of expanding our membership while enjoying a great time together!

August 10 and it was about 95° outside, but it was a wonderful 65° in our wine warehouse; site of our Annual Chapter Business Meeting. It’s a pot luck affair and there is more wonderful food than you can imagine! We pull out all the “leftover” bottles of wine from events during the prior year and it’s all available for this incredible evening of friendship!

We visit, we eat, we drink and then we get down to the serious business of reviewing financials, discussing events of the last year (what we liked, didn’t like, new ideas for future events, etc.) and elect officers. In addition, we invited Miguel Cabrera from the University of Houston’s Conrad Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management to join us so we could present him a check to add to the Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine endowment that we started years ago. It was our pleasure to increase that endowment

Never Stops!

by another $12,500 bringing the total now to just under $100,000 which includes matching funds from the Hilton Foundation.

In case you didn’t know, we really are cowboys and cowgirls here in Houston and so on September 26, we returned to the Republic Country Club for wine, barbeque and country music. Boots and hats were all the fashion and above the country music you heard lots of laughter as we thoroughly enjoyed the evening of wine, barbeque beef and chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans and peach cobbler.

On October 15, the University of Houston’s Conrad N. Hilton School of Hotel and Restaurant Management celebrated its 50th Anniversary at a Gala Event at The Post Oak Hotel. As a strong supporter of this institution through our fundraising efforts for scholarships and the students’ participation in our Assemblage weekend events, we had the opportunity to attend and show our appreciation and build on this great relationship.

While enjoying a delightful evening, we were also able to share information about our Brotherhood with many people there and, in fact, happily connected with one couple who ultimately did join our chapter. Among the fundraising activities that night was a $50 cork pull and a number of our members hit some home runs garnering some outstanding wines including a 1928 Chateau Lafite Rothschild from the university’s storied wine collection. More surprises that night included roaming tenors who totally entertained the crowd. continued >>>

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BY TRISH HAGNER

Winter/Spring 2020

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HOUSTON CHAPTER CONT’D FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

With a generous gift by Lady Master Commander Emeritus Gaye Platt, Texas A & M University’s Viticulture Depar tment dedicated the Arthur and Gaye Platt Wine Fermentation Laboratory in College Station, Texas on October 18. The event was MC’d by Supreme Knight Dr. George Ray McEachern who told stories of the very beginning of the Texas wine industry and how Gaye and Arthur Platt and the Houston chapter of KOV all supported and promoted that industry. Also present were Supreme Knight and Supreme Lady Paul and Merrill Bonarrigo, Master Knight and Master Lady Paul M and Karen Bonarrigo, Houston Chapter’s Cellar Master Tom Feeney as well as lots of other friends of KOV and Texas A & M. Over the years, our Houston Chapter has provided financial support as well as encouragement to the university and its students, but this was truly a day to honor and appreciate all that was done under the guidance and leadership of Arthur and Gaye Platt.

October 19 and a return to the home of Knight and Gentle Lady Wolfgang and Leigh Ann Manz for our Wine-tober Fest! Perfect weather allowed a nice evening poolside to enjoy our German wines. Leigh Ann grilled the sausage and had prepared a fabulous buffet dinner that included the most delicious Germanstyle potato salad you have ever had. Of course, among the good eats in addition to the sausage, there were all kinds of great mustards, lentil soup, charcuterie,

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sauerkraut, pretzel bites, cucumber salad and dessert.

Our wines included several from Weingut W. Persch in Mittelrhein; a 2016 Riesling “Meisterstuck”, 2018 Riesling “Handstreich”, 2017 Riesling Spatlase HT “552”, and a 2018 Schonburger. We also enjoyed 2017 Robert Schatzle Pinot Noir Trocken (Baden), 2014 Weingut Hans Bausch Spatburgunder (Rheingau) and a 2016 Nikolaus N. Spatburgunder Trocken (Ahr).

Italy seems to be on our minds a lot lately! So, on November 12 we had 41 members and guests come together for an Italian Wine Dinner. Trish Hagner’s son, Bill Baldwin, offered the flex space at his office (Boulevard Realty) for the occasion and it was perfect! Caesar salad, Tuscan chicken and roasted potatoes were paired with wines from Italy. We started with Tutela Prosecco (Treviso), then moved on to 2018 Borgo Boschetto Pinot Grigio (Friuli), 2014 Selmo Chianti Riserva (Toscana), 2015 Montemecurio Tedicciolo (Toscana) and finished up with a little Il Gusta della Costa Limoncello (Amalfi Coast) in a souvenir glass.

about, you ask? The evening’s events are in the home of legendary coach and great friends Wade and Laurie Phillips who have always been more than generous in hosting fun events for our members and guests in their home. It’s not every day you get to have a Super Bowl trophy as your centerpiece! We have no idea what the gentlemen were eating and drinking, but downstairs the ladies tasted though a lineup of affordable wines perfect for the holidays that included 2014 Louis Bouillot Brut Millesime (Burgundy), 2018 Gerd Anselmann Riesling Trocken Pfalz (Germany), 2018 Tuli Pinot Noir (Sonoma), 2017 San Gregorio Garnacha (Spain) and 2016 Chateau Feret-Lambert Grand Vin de Bordeaux (Bordeaux) paired with so much food deliciously and lovingly prepared to share.

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One of our fun traditions is our Ladies of the Knight event in December where we gather annually on a Monday night. Why Monday? Well, while the ladies are downstairs enjoying an amazing assortment of beautiful and tasty foods brought to share, some of the fellas are upstairs in the game room and theatre watching Monday Night Football. So what’s that all

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HOUSTON CHAPTER CONT’D FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

And the holiday season was just beginning! Once again we planned our Holiday Buffet Dinner at the home of Master Host Lee Slataper and his lady Laura. With a great buffet by Café Benedicte, we dined on cold boiled shrimp, cheese, fruit, dips, beef stroganoff, chicken Alfredo, grilled vegetables, crème brulee crepes and chocolate bites … and then there was the wine! All of our wines were from Piedmont, Italy; the region many of us will be visiting for the next FICB Congress. The featured wines were from Guidobono Winery and included a 2016 Segrete Vigne Extra Brut, 2018 Roero Arneis, Barbera D’Alba, 2018 Nebbiolo, and Barolo, Le Coste di Monforte. To add a new twist on the occasion and to get a jump on the new year, we sold raffle tickets for a very special gift of Sherwin Family Vineyards wine and 2 etched glasses. As you’ll see in the picture, the bottle is hand-etched and handpainted featuring the American flag. It was created in remembrance of those lost on September 11, 2001. The winners were new members Carolyn and Craig Blanchard. We also had a drawing from a fishbowl that had our guests’ names in it.

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We had been encouraging our members to invite guests to help us increase membership; now it was time for a reward! The guest’s name drawn was Bartt Thompson and he and his wife, Deborah, were guests of Mark and Heidi Davis. Both couples received a nice bottle of Belle Glos Pinot Noir. And the best surprise is that shortly thereafter, Bartt and Deborah Thompson submitted their applications becoming our newest members!

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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 3343 Industrial Dr., Suite 2, 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 ________________ Winter/Spring 2020

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¡Vinos y Tapas! an Evening in

Spain All Articles by Cathie Sandstrom Smith

Los Angeles

The Los Angeles Chapter gathered for an evening in Spain on October 5, 2019 at the home and garden of Vice Commander Janet Hamilton to celebrate and learn about Spanish wines paired with a selection of tapas; those wonderful small, savory appetizers of Spanish cuisine.

Vice Commander Janet Hamilton collaborated with Sommelier Sean van Straatum and Chef Pierangelo Ramponi from Oakmont Country Club. Together they created a tantalizing menu that paired wines from Bodegas Riojanas, S.A., with tapas and the traditional paella.

The winery, one of Spain’s most respected, is owned and run by the Frias Artacho family, who have a winemaking tradition going back more than three centuries. Van Straatum introduced each wine as it was served. Watching Sean do what he loves is always a pleasure. He’s knowledgeable and so enthusiastic.

The weather was perfect, and the garden was beautiful.

Members and guests were greeted with a Roederer Estate Champagne. We toasted Gentle Lady Debbie Ludford on her birthday with Champagne her daughter had opened with a saber. This seems to be a Ludford talent and tradition. At our 2019 Assemblage, Debbie had volunteered to saber open the Champagne. You’d have thought she’d been doing that for years. The Ludfords brought their family and significant others to join in the celebration. Another member family, the Witts and their mates tipped the balance in favor of the young!

Ludfords sabering the Champagne

It was followed by a spectacular meal of Roasted Rib Eye of Beef, Paella Valenciana, Spanish potatoes with garlic and paprika, and sautéed spinach with pine nuts and dried apricots. The wine, a Bodegas Riojanas “Monte Real” Gran Reserva, Rioja 2010 was the perfect accompaniment.

Empanadas de Manzana provided a sweet finish. These tasty apple turnovers were served with Viña Albina, Blanco Reserva Dulce, Rioja 2001. Janet’s garden in La Cañada is up against the San Gabriel mountains, so starlight ushered us back to our cars after a delightful evening.

Ted Ludford & John Hamilton

Our first course was Pulpo a la Gallega. The Spanish-style octopus with pimiento, cucumber ashes and chorizo was served with Bodegas Riojanas “Monte Real’ Blanco Barrica, Rioja 2017.

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Home for the Holidays

Bobby and Patti Brundige with Vice Commander Janet Hamilton

Marcia and Mike Marino with Commander Jim Hamilton

A holiday classic song has the line, “There’s never been such a day—in Beverly Hills, LA.” The Los Angeles chapter opened the holiday season on December 1 at the Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hills, as is our tradition. (Yes, even Los Angeles has traditions.) Chef David Codney and his staff raise the bar each time. To quote another old song, “Who could ask for anything more?”

We raised our glasses of Champagne, a Taittinger Rosé, while enjoying passed hors d’oeuvres that included lamb meatballs on a bed of hummus, slice of scallop with Meyer lemon on fennel and bite-sized asparagus quiches. It was a sublime beginning.

Harpist Ted Nichelson entertained us with a mix of holiday songs and other tunes throughout the dinner which started with wild mushroom soup with parmesan brioche and white truffle Chantilly. A perfectly chilled Marie-Pierre Manciat Pouilly-Fuisse les Petites Bruyeres accompanied it. The next course was a salad of roasted beets and goat cheese, dressed with a cranberry vinaigrette.

It was served with Dolin 2012 Pinot Noir Santa Rita Hills.

Our entrée was herb roasted tenderloin of beef with peppercorn sauce, served with grilled asparagus and buttermilk potato puree. The entrée was accompanied by a very special wine, Hamilton Private Release Cabernet Sauvignon, blended by our own Knight John Hamilton. Dessert was a caramelized French apple tart with vanilla Chantilly crème accompanied by a sauternes.

Trevor, Kyle and Randy Witt

Winter/Spring 2020

All the wines served at our holiday event were a gift from the Hamiltons; Commander Jim Hamilton, Vice Commander Janet Hamilton and Knight John Hamilton. Santa came early to Los Angeles this year!

Nation’s Capital

Blessing of theVines The Nation’s Capital Chapter held its Blessing of the Vines at Walsh Family Vineyards on a beautiful day in August. Blessing the vines is a centuries-old tradition that happens all over the world, however, some scholars say that the ceremony may be older than originally thought. Some ancient Roman texts show that a celebration, centered around wine, happened in April every year to ask the Roman gods for good weather and a bountiful growing season. Our own Reverend Kevin McLaughlin blessed the vines this year in hopes of a good harvest.

He quoted Benjamin Franklin with the reminder that, “Wine makes daily living easier, less hurried, with fewer tensions and more tolerance.” He also paid homage to Ernest Hemmingway who said, “I drink to make other people more interesting.” We were hosted by Nate and Sarah Walsh at their beautiful vineyard in Loudon County, Virginia who shared their story and wine with us. Nate and Sarah farm 50 acres of grapes on five distinct sites. The wine tasting consisted of a 2017 Viognier, 2018 Rosé of Cabernet Franc, Merlot 2017, and a 2016 En Passant.

The En Passant was a “blind” blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The delicious food was sourced from local Virginia businesses also from Loudon County.

Nation’s Capital Cadre with Rev Kev and Nate Walsh

Carl Brandhorst and Dave Barber

Joe Alt and Richard Abelkis

Sarah Walsh pouring the tasting and telling their story 12

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Rosé

Joe Alt and Christine Haapala

Around the World

Richard Abelkis and Claire Cuccio hosted a Rosé Around the World Event at their home in September.

Pat Valas and Walt Rachele selected wines from six countries and conducted multiple tastings throughout the night. Claire cooked all the food and served a spread that included: a Bruschetta Bar; Shrimp, Avocado and Roasted Corn Salad; Balsamic Watermelon Feta Salad; Salmon with Sunflower-Dill Pesto Sauce; and Harissa Chicken and Israeli Couscous Salad. Dessert was two decadent cakes from a local Italian bakery. The selected wines were a 2019 Radley & Finch Cinsault (Western Cape, South Africa), 2017 M. Chapoutier Belleruche Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah (France), 2018 Crios de Susana Balboa Malbec (Mendosa, Argentina), 2018 Lab Rosé Castelão, Camarate, Cabernet Sauvignon (Lisboa, Portugal), 2018 Luzon Rosado Monastrell (Jumilla, Spain) and 2018 Linden Rosé, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Cabernet Franc from right here in Virginia. Claire and Richard have a brand new HGTV kitchen and enjoyed showing it off to their friends in the Knights of the Vine

Mike Taylor with Eva Stefan

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Bill Stefan and Mary Ann Wassenberg

Ken Haapala,Tom DeWitt and Alex Ehrlich discuss quantum physics

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NATION’S CAPITAL CHAPTER CONT’D FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

LEFT Richard Abelkis and Claire Cuccio BELOW Joe Alt and Jim Walton BOTTOM Nancy Davis and Pat Alt catch up over a glass of champagne

THOMAS JEFFERSON HARVEST DINNER “We could, in the United States, make as great a variety of wines as are made in Europe, not exactly of the same kinds, but doubtless as good.” – Thomas Jefferson Our chapter honors Thomas Jefferson in the fall each year as our third President and the first person to plant vineyards in the United States of America- right here in the Commonwealth of Virginia, at his home in Monticello.

We held our annual Thomas Jefferson Harvest Dinner at Ris – a Michelin rated bistro in Northwest Washington, DC. The executive chef, Ris Lacoste is one of the most respected and dedicated chefs working in Washington, DC today. She earned her reputation built upon high quality ingredients, bold and innovative technique, and food that is both familiar and simply delicious. We presented Ris with an unusual request: prepare a menu that will challenge our wine experts to explore thier caves and cellars seeking the right wines to pair with the foods. She responded magnificently.

absolutely decadent rabbit risotto with winter squash, pancetta and fried sage. The rabbit was paired with a lovely 2011 Aurelio Settimo Barolo. The next course was an equally impressive licorice braised beef short ribs with horseradish cream, roasted beets, wilted greens, pickled onion butter, crushed potatoes and fried onion crisps served with a 2000 Chateau La Lagune, Haut Medoc and a 2016 Janzen Estate Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. To finish the evening, Chef Ris treated us to a warm pear almond tart with caramel and cinnamon ice cream paired with a 2015 Les Justices Sauternes.

The food and wine were exceptional as was the venue and the embellishments of the Knights and Gentle Ladies of the Nation’s Capital Chapter. The gala was a huge success as we celebrate another year appreciating the gastronomy and terroir of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the home of Thomas Jefferson.

The evening started with some hors d’oeuvres -shrimp tempura, napa cabbage and yuzu gougeres smoked trout pâté on fennel crisps with orange cream. These were paired with a Jean Laurent Blanc de Blancs, NV and a 2018 Pouilly-Fuisse, Jean Chaplain, 2018. The first course was a scallop margarita with tequila ice, chiles, lime, orange, avocado, sour cream and tortilla chips. It was an unexpected delight paired with a grateful and generous 2016 Domaine Dublere Bourgogne Blanc.

Next was an herb and mushroom crusted Icelandic cod served with a beautifully sculpted 2017 April Sauvignon Blanc. It was utterly fresh and delicious. The third course was an intermezzo of grapefruit sorbet. Next was an

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Southern Rhone Wine Tasting

By Ken Levy

Lodi is wine country and our Knights and Gentle Ladies are fanatical about supporting the hometown team. The members of our chapter include growers, winemakers, and raving fans who are unapologetic for being Lodi-centric when it comes to wine. At the same time, the feedback we were getting from our membership indicated there was a desire for more educational events, especially as it relates to international wines; the point being that if we want to know where Lodi fits in the world of wine, we need to know and understand the world of wine.

The highlight of the evening was a tasting that focused on the 2016 vintage of Southern Rhone. We learned about the varietals predominately grown in the area, the aromas and flavor characteristics associated with those varietals, and how a wine judge would systematically evaluate these wines. Five wines were selected with variations of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre, Merlot, and Marselan. Given the relatively cool climate of Southern Rhone, we found the wines to be lighter, more delicate, acidic and, arguably, more food-friendly than many of the bold, stand-alone wines often associated with the sunshine state of California.

Lodi

In keeping with our low-cost, friendly event structure, we kept the charge very low, bought some wine for the event while attendees also brought appetizers and a bottle of wine to share. What a friendly and happy atmosphere! Everyone learned something new, there were plentiful and delectable dishes, and the wine flowed.

Given the success of this internationally-focused event, we are already planning our next one ‌ a focus on the wines of Argentina!

On Thursday, September 26, Knight Gordon MacKay and Annette MacKay hosted a special tasting and educational presentation on the wines of France that included a focus on, and tasting of, wines of the Southern Rhone region. Gordon did a fantastic job of simplifying the designations used by France to demarcate the regional classifications, crus, and quality tiers. He started with a map of France, then transitioned to Southern Rhone. From a map that included latitude coordinates, we could see that most of France is located between 45 and 50 degrees which puts it well above California, along the same latitude of the state of Washington. The Southern Rhone region would most closely lay in line with the Willamette Valley of upper-Oregon.

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A LOT HAPPENING IN

ARIZONA The August White Party was held at Senai Thai Bistro in downtown Tucson, Arizona. It was an intimate affair with excellent food and wine pairings by award winning Chef /Owner, Dee Bulzer. We had a sommelier in attendance for the education portion of our event who gave us great insights to some of the production methods from the chosen vintners. The event was designed with the idea of pairings for foods you may not necessarily associate with wines. Both beautiful and exotic, the plates were paired with such wines as: Cristom Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, Mt Jefferson Cuvee 2016, and M.A.N. 2016 Chenin Blanc Coastal Region from South Africa.

The Fall Banquet, our November event, was held at Leows Ventana Canyon Resort in The Ventana Room; Tucson’s only five star restaurant. The membership was blown away by the offerings at this event. The menu was nothing short of superlative by head chef, Ken Harvey, and the sommelier, Chris Ried was nothing short of amazing both in his humor and knowledge. The food and pairings were right on point. This well attended event will stand out as a club favorite.

New Members: BACK ROW Andrea Canchola, John Fory, Buddy Hagner, Ashley Drew,Trish Hagner, John Kovacik, FRONT ROW Darren Jones, Sara Beth Roberson, Linda Fulgenzi, Anthony Canchola, Tony Ray Baker, Carolyn Bass

new members: Darren Jones, Tony Ray Baker, Jon Fory, Linda Fulgenzi, Carolyn Bass, Ashley Drew, SaraBeth Roberson and Anthony Canchola.

John Kovacik was honored for his continuing efforts through the years in keeping the local chapter going and Darren Jones was elevated to Commander. John Kovacik, who remains an integral part of our cadre as the treasurer, was given the title of Commander Emeritus by our Grand Commander.

This was a fun and festive event with a light fairy garden night feel. The food and wine pairings were presented by Chris Ried, our favorite sommelier once again as this is his home base. We look forward to an eventful and fun new year in 2020.

Our Esteemed Cadre

Our Assemblage was held at Hacienda Del Sol Resort.

Our honored guests were Grand Commander Buddy Hagner and Master Lady Trish Hagner. We were honored to have them in attendance as we inducted eight

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Wine Critic’s Scores & Evaluations

Does it Matter?

by Claire L. Torbeck, Certified Sommelier

It’s very helpful to rely upon the ‘paid for’ and ‘free’ critic’s advice and written evaluations when purchasing wine. Shelf talkers tout the expert’s scores to influence what bottle(s) of wine you will ultimately purchase. But should you believe them?

For the well-known wine raters, I have been watching their scoring and reading their reviews long enough that I have formed an opinion as to ‘how’ they score wine. I know who always rates higher than the others or which reviewer(s) likes fruit forward, highly extracted and high alcohol wines. Why does that matter? Because while I can tell you the flavor profile of a varietal from various places around the world and I can look to see what the vintage and nature gave us that year, it’s helpful to read the opinion of someone that has tasted that bottle. I can then decide if it will be what I am searching for.

Sometimes these reviews will contain an unknown nugget of information like ‘while this is a Cotes du Rhone wine, it is crafted from 100% Syrah grapes.’

That’s important information as most Cotes du Rhone are made from Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre (referred to as a GSM) and maybe Cinsault. Chateau de SainteCosme winery is in Gigondas, so, by law, for the label to say ‘Gigondas’ it must be a GSM blend with possibly some Cinsault. If I had merely relied upon the Cotes du Rhone designation expecting a GSM gem, it would not meet my expectations. Clear as mud, right?

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If the expert’s review gives a range, like 89-91 points, I am confident the wine was tasted from the barrel and prior to bottling. Why does that matter? Since the wine is still in the barrel, it is possible the final wine could taste somewhat different due to blending and/or filtering or completion of malolactic fermentation. The evaluation before bottling might not match the final product. In that instance, it’s good to see if other critics rated the wine after bottling to get a more up-to-date snapshot.

A store like K&L Wine Merchants lists their offerings on their website which has a picture of the bottle, a list of the wine critic’s scores and their commentary, general information about the grape, the country, and a description of the subregion/appellation. In addition, if the staff was able to taste the wine, a review written by the staff member will also appear as well as the date tasted. I find that all so very helpful and lean a bit toward purchasing when all of the critic’s scores seem to align. I take that nudge based upon my experience with judging at wine competitions. On any panel you can have a wide range of medals considered as we evaluate each wine independently and then come together to discuss and, ultimately, to agree on a final award. However, for the wines that are exceptional, the entire panel always seems to be in agreement before ever coming together for discussion.

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Does the lack of a rating mean the wine is not good?

For a publication such as Wine Spectator, they indicate they review approximately 16,000 wines on an annual basis and those wines are important wines, readily available and distributed in major markets. So, lack of a score does not mean a wine is not good. Similarly, the lack of a medal from a wine competition also does not suggest it’s not good. Wineries have to be selective in how they choose to spend their marketing dollars and competitions do cost a lot to enter.

How about reviews on Apps such as Vinvino? The creators of this site tout that their community of millions of wine lovers really know their stuff and are passionate about sharing that knowledge. However, we do not know what their experience level is or their qualifications for judging wine. As a worstcase scenario, the rater could really dislike French wines and be an All-American wine fruit bomb wine drinker. And, remember, Vinvino sells wine based on these ratings.

Critic’s scores and evaluations can be very useful tools when you cannot taste a European wine or travel to Paso Robles or Lodi to visit a winery to taste before you buy. Equally useful are Vintage Charts published annually which will give you a quick look to determine if the vintage was a blow out success or had some serious viticultural challenges. Again, just an additional piece of information as good wine can be made in not so good vintages.

Finally, remember that the scores were assigned and evaluations penned at a frozen point in time. The challenge is that you are not purchasing something like Pepsi Cola or Coors beer that is ‘finished’ when it goes into the bottle or can. Wine is a living, breathing beverage that develops and changes over time. That plum, for example, that tasted so fresh to Robert Parker shortly after bottling is impacted first by the aerobic conditions in the barrel and then by the reductive time in the bottle. The various components of tannin, both from the cluster and skin as well as the barrel, phenolics, and fruit all integrate over time and hopefully for the better. However, most wine is meant

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to be drunk young and fruit generally begins to lose its luster after about 6 months. So, when reading that evaluation from November of 2017, expect that the wine you will meet in the glass may be very different from the day is was scored.

A wine’s score(s) and evaluation(s) are great tools to help you find new treasures to enjoy but are not absolute. More often than not, wine is drunk beyond its time than too early.

Santé!

About the Author Claire is a Certified Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers and a student in the Diploma Program of the WSET (Wine and Spirits Education Trust). Claire is the Cellar Master for the International Wine & Food Society Lake Tahoe where she purchases and manages a cellar of 1,200 - 1,500 bottles ($75,000 - $100,000), similar to a small restaurant inventory. She is a Master Lady of the Knights of the Vine and a member of the Lake Tahoe Chapter delivering educational events for the membership. In addition, Claire develops and delivers educational seminars for winery staff, clubs and enthusiasts and judges at various wine competitions around California.

For more information and articles, visit Sudsy’s Cellar at www.sudsyscellar.com

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Robyn Pesce & Christopher Burnett

Dr.William Deaton & Cecilia Neuhuas-Deaton

A High-Rise Good Time Austin

by Forrest Preece, Master Scribe

Almost eighty Knights, Gentle Ladies, and invited guests of the Austin chapter gathered on Tuesday, September 24th in the new downtown high rise condominium building Fifth and West to enjoy a dazzling party. It was a perfect night and the party room and pool deck, stationed on the sixth floor of the 39-story tower, provided sweeping views. Knight John and Gentle Lady Marcy Melanson, who live in the building, were the party hosts.

Conversations among the guests were lively. Many guests were sharing stories about their summer travels and their plans for the upcoming social season. Everyone in attendance enjoyed themselves, the food and the wine. continued >>>

Rose Betty Williams, Master de Partis, did her usual wonderful job of providing a buffet of delicious food, which was catered by The Social Table Events, operated by Veronica Bright and Chef Adam Wetherington.

Newly named Cellar Master Chris Hightower saw to it that an ample supply of carefully selected wine was served. The compliments from the guests reflected the excellence of their efforts.

Midway through the event, Master Commander Buckner Hightower made remarks to the crowd about how delighted he was with the ambience of the party room and deck. He also described the slate of parties for 2019-2020.

L to R John & Marcy Melanson with Allan & Rose Betty Williams

L to R Guests join J. Buckner and Chris Hightower

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L to R Gerald Stone, Ed Auler and Steve Tipton

The Arbor

In Memoriam Supreme Knight Larry Peel John “Larry” Peel, Supreme Knight and co-founder of the Austin Chapter of Knights of the Vine, died at the age of 86 in his home on December 17, 2019. His wife Deborah was by his side when he passed. They had been married for 39 years.

To say that Larry was a force in the Austin wine, cultural, and multi-family development scene is an understatement. His booming laugh, direct manner, formidable intelligence, and quick wit made him a larger-than-life presence.

In 1999 Larry, along with Ed and Susan Auler, founded the Austin Chapter of Knights of the Vine. To help the chapter thrive, he supplied space in his cellar to store its wine and he provided administrative support from his staff to oversee the chapter’s operation. His business acumen, wine knowledge, and good humor at cadre meetings were essential to the chapter’s success.

It should not go unmentioned that Larry supported Austin’s growing and robust sommelier community by donating wine selflessly to fellow aficionado Brian Owens’ Salons. The Salons were designed to give young ‘somms’ access to experiencing and learning about rare vintages and varietals of wine.

He was also known as Austin’s most environmentally responsible developer of multi-family home projects.

During his career, he received more than a dozen awards for combining the construction of livable communities with respect for the environment.

At the next KOV event following Larry’s passing, Master Commander Buckner Hightower called on the guests to observe a moment of silence for Larry.

He will be missed.

Larry’s leadership and generosity helped numerous Austin nonprofits, such as KLRU-TV (Austin’s PBS station), St. David’s Community Foundation, Austin Opera, the Hill Country Conservancy, Austin Smiles, Safe Place, and HeartGift. Also, many charities benefitted from dinners cooked tableside by celebrity chefs in his spacious wine cellar, which stored one of most extensive collections in Texas.

More than thirty years ago, he co-founded the Texas Hill Country Wine and Food Festival, began the Rare and Fine Wine Auction and then the Wine and Food Foundation. Through his generosity, he was able to combine two of his passions when he made KLRU-TV a major beneficiary of funds raised at the Wine and Food Foundation auction.

At the Austin Chapter’s 2017 Assemblage, Master Commander Jerry Gatlin addresses Larry Peel during his elevation to Supreme Knight as Larry’s wife, Dr. Deborah Peel, looks on.

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AUSTIN CHAPTER CONT’D FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Party at Umlauf Sculpture Gardens & Museum

Story by Forrest Preece • Photos by Charles Quinn Photography

Tuesday, October 29th was a chilly day in Austin, which is news in itself. But that was just more reason for around 70 Knights, Gentle Ladies and guests to gather in warm fellowship in the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum. It was a beautiful night that blended art, wine and food. Located near Zilker Park, home of the legendary Barton Springs, the Umlauf Garden has a permanent and extensive collection of sculpture by the late Charles Umlauf, a nationally known sculptor who was also a professor at the University of Texas at Austin for four decades. (One of his favorite sculpting subjects was an art student at the university named Farrah Fawcett.)

As the guests filtered in, they were served passed hors d’oeuvres and a Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve.

Before long the conversations turned to the upcoming local Travis Lightfoot and Gerald Stone elections and other matters such as the national political scene, new restaurants opening around Austin, and holiday plans.

Many of the revelers took the opportunity to wander the gorgeously landscaped grounds at the sculpture center and admire the artwork embedded among the greenery.

Master Commander Buckner Hightower looks on as Executive Director Sarah Story tells the party guests about the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum

Jerry Gatlin, Kandace and Dennis Eakin

Allan & Rose Betty Williams, Dr. Hugh Collins, Master Commander Buckner Hightower

Soon after the elaborate buffet designed by Master des Partis Rose Betty Williams was opened, to the enjoyment of everyone in attendance. The wines from Cellar Master Chris Hightower were a perfect accompaniment to the food and delighted the discriminating palates in the crowd.

Near the end of the evening, Buckner Hightower, Master Commander, introduced Sarah Story, the executive director of the Umlauf Center. She gave a welcome to the KOV party-goers and then described upcoming activities that the center will be hosting. It was a lovely evening that left many of the guests in a festive mood – a perfect way to start the holiday season.

Ed Auler, Cindy Stone, and Richard Coons

Andrew Heller, Eddie Butler, Mary Ann Heller

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Anna Marie Speir and Martha Coons

The Arbor

Vice Commander Jon Greer and his lady Mary planned and hosted the 2nd Annual International Tasting event which was held at Off the Vine Storage facility in Laguna Hills, California. The Greer’s hired a caterer who provided fresh Mexican cuisine to accompany the tastings.

Upon arrival, guests were greeted and given detailed scoring sheets to use in this blind tasting to compare and rate each wine presented on a variety of

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characteristics. The first tasting compared starter wines; an Ocho Bruma Chardonnay from Mexico and Meursault Burgundy Chardonnay from France. The second comparison was between a Mexican blend, El Caporal, against an Italian Nebbiolo. This third tasting compared another Mexican red, Melchum Merlot, against a French Bordeaux, Chateau Barde-Haut. The fourth and final tasting was a Mexican Vino Tinto D’Poncelis GSM versus a French Bosquet Des Papes Chateauneuf Du Pape.

During the point calculation the guests enjoyed a fresh Mexican dessert and coffee. And the winner was, The Mexican 2013 Vino Tinto D’Poncellis GSM (Syrah 60%, Grenache 20%, Mourvedre 20%) aged 24 months in French oak. continued >>>

Orange County

2ND ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL WINE TASTING

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ORANGE COUNTY CHAPTER CONT’D FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

La Quinta, CA On November 16 and 17 the Orange County Chapter again traveled to Palm Desert, California, specifically La Quinta, to enjoy a weekend of activities.

On Friday evening , all were welcomed at the estate of Knight Jeff Grether and his lady Sue. The evening commenced with many appetizers followed with a catered Mexican dinner. A huge variety of wines to share for the occasion were brought by our members. Members and guests enjoyed the evening around the pool area and relaxing in the Grether’s spacious home.

On Saturday, our chapter members journeyed to the estate of Jim and Gentle Lady Linda Loomis for another day of fun against the serene backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains. The day started early for eight ambitious members as they played a round of golf while others went shopping or just relaxed around the pool and courtyard.

That evening we had appetizers and wine, while our own Master of the Cellar, Bill Losee and lovely wife Barbara, prepared dinner for 40 hungry members and guests.

After dinner our host, Jim Loomis, treated the group to the great sounds of Jimmy Street, a legend in the desert. Jimmy played his sax and other instruments with wide-ranging songs of past hits as well as singing with them. Many of us really got into the evening and danced the night away.

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Holiday Party Christmas is a time when most of us abandon our disciplined commitment to curb our drinking and eating those boring healthy things, (so we say), and briefly indulge ourselves in the culinary delights of the season.

for all to see. Participants can then select an unknown bottle or steal the known bottle. We can steal a bottle from each other up to 3 times. On the third steal it is frozen and belongs to them, thus a little strategy is involved. Everyone goes home with the same number of bottles they brought.

This year was no different as we gathered at the beautiful home of Knight John and Dianne Artim to sample the many creations members brought to celebrate the season.

We also brought a bounty of varied wines for all to enjoy.

From appetizers to main courses to desserts, we rejoiced at our good fortune and wisdom to be members of the illustrious Orange County Chapter.

The fun begins after dinner as members draw numbers to open unknown, decorated, concealed wine bottles. Participants select a bottle and then open the package and present the wine inside

On a sunny day overlooking the Pacific Ocean, we were honored to have Tanya McMahon, General Manager of Macchia Winery of Lodi make the long drive to Dana Point. She arrived to the beautiful home of Knight Ron and Gentle Lady Maureen Nath to allow our members to appreciate, learn, and enjoy these wonderful masterpieces.

ing Macchia’s wonderful port. Tanya brought extra cases for our members to purchase as well giving members an opportunity to sign up for their wine club.

Tanya has visited our Chapter a number of times over the years and always brings a variety of wines for us to try. This year was no exception as we enjoyed approximately 10 varietals includ-

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NEW INDUCTEES Holly Tillis, Cathy Ward, Jim Ward and Kathleen Conn with the cadre

Rejuvenated in Raleigh North Carolina

By Jeff Price, Master Commander

The rejuvenated North Carolina Chapter of the Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine held its first Grand Assemblage since 2013 on Saturday, September 28, 2019 in the magnificent wine cellar of The Angus Barn Restaurant (www.angusbarn.com) in Raleigh. The Knights, Gentle Ladies and special guests were greeted by restaurant staff and escorted downstairs, through the the stunning wine cellar and into THAD’s room for a pre-Enthronement reception that featured tasty hors d’oeuvres that included ahi tuna on cucumber with a ginger soy glaze and truffle filet mignon meat ball po’ boy. The Angus Barn also provided their famous cheese, crackers and relish complimentary. There was an abundance of wonderful champagne to quench everyone’s thirst. The Knights and Gentle Ladies were served by an attentive wait staff that ensured no one had an empty wine glass or plate throughout the entire evening.

Enthronement proceeded with the knighting of new Gentle Ladies Kathleen Conn, Holly Tillis, Cathy Ward and new Knight Jim Ward. Our gracious venue provided complimentary champagne for this event.

A delicious wine dinner in the beautifully decorated cellar with faux stained glass windows followed the Enthronement and the menu was one truly prepared for wine royalty!

The Angus Barn’s white glove staff with their synchronized service was impressive to say the least! Their attention to detail and genuine friendly and very professional service included a detailed tour of the restaurant’s amazing wine cellar (the restaurant has earned Wine Spectator’s top award for over 35 consecutive years).

In addition to hosting its first Grand Assemblage in The Chapter was delighted to welcome several special six years, the North Carolina KOV Chapter has been out-of-state guests who participated in the Assemblage active in other wine events around the State. During the including Grand Commander Buddy Hagner, Grand summer our chapter members attended an assortment Vice Commander Ken Haapala, Provost General Dave of amazing wine dinners hosted by the North Carolina Barber, Master Herald Walt Rachele Fine Wines Society, Inc. (www. and Master Lady Trish Hagner. ncfinewines.com). These dinners Lyndo & Lou Tippett were held at the Pinehurst Resort, An Enthronement ceremony folBarrington’s Restaurant in Charlowed the reception and Knight lotte and The Umstead Hotel & Jeff Price was formally elevated Spa in Cary and featured the best to the position of Master Comcuisine prepared by some of the mander by Grand Commander best chefs in North Carolina and Buddy Hagner. Jeff then formally some of the greatest wines produced elevated Gentle Lady Lisa Tillis to by the State’s master winemakers. the position of Master Scribe. The The North Carolina KOV Chapter

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The Arbor

Trish & Buddy Hagner, Denise Hill, Walt Rachele, Megan Dooner, Lisa Tillis and Jeff Price

Tom & Dawn Potter

is proud to be a sponsor for the North Carolina Fine Wines Society and we salute the tireless efforts of the Society’s Executive Director, Dan McLaughlin. Our two groups have a common purpose – to support and enjoy the best wines North Carolina has to offer!

The North Carolina KOV was an educational sponsor for the 8th Annual Southeastern United Grape and Wine Symposium held on Wednesday, November 6, 2019 at Surry Community College in Dobson, North Carolina. This was the second consecutive year our Chapter has participated in this event as an educational sponsor. The Chapter utilized the occasion to present its annual scholarship award and the 2019 “Dr. Charles W. Averre III Memorial Scholarship Award” was presented to Mr. Eric Younts, a student in the enology and viticulture program at SCC. We are proud to support the education of the next generation of winemakers!

As the Thanksgiving holiday approached, nine of our members attended an Assemblaggio, a wine blending class, at Raffaldini Vineyards (www.raffaldini.com) on Saturday, November 23. The class was hosted by Jay Raffaldini, the owner of the Winery that proudly boasts of being home to “Chianti in the Carolinas” and is also home to some of the nation’s most prestigious award winning wines. Jay took us on a journey of discovery about wines and how some grape varietals produce even better wine when they are blended with other grapes.

This was an exciting, fun-filled class and the attendees were divided into teams and challenged to apply the lessons of the class by developing their own special blend.

Jay acted as the sole judge, tasting each team’s blended

Jeff Price and Lisa Tillis

wine and offering expert advice on how well (or not so well) the team did in applying their new knowledge to develop a wine one would want to drink. Every wine enthusiast has a lot to be thankful for and, as North Carolina’s Knights and Gentle Ladies prepared for their 2019 Thanksgiving holiday on this cool autumn day in the North Carolina mountains, we were enthusiastically appreciative of the opportunity to learn more about wine from one of our nation’s greatest wine champions!

Elevation of Jeff Price to Master Commander

Kathleen Conn’s Enthronement

Surry Community College Wine Symposium 2019

David Bowers from SCC and Eric Younts 2019 KOV Scholarship Recipient

George Ray

McEachern

KOV Supreme Knight Dr. George Ray McEachern, Professor of Horticulture at Texas A&M University, is a central figure in the development and growth of the Texas wine industry, and in KOV’s support of this growth. In the early days, he was widely known as “the wine guy,” and with good reason. With a B.S. and M.S. degree in Horticulture from Louisiana State University, he went to Texas A&M in 1969 to work on a Ph.D. and was hired as a half-time faculty member. Initially, Dr. McEachern specialized in growing pecans, but, as the nationwide interest in wine began to emerge, he was called upon to use his horticultural expertise to help launch grape growing in the state of Texas. Then, there was only one vineyard in the state, Val Verde Winery in Del Rio. Today, nearly 50 years later, there are over 520 wineries in Texas and more than 4500 acres of vineyards planted. Right after his appointment at Texas A&M, Dr. McEachern coordinated planting 23 early vineyards, was a founding member of the Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association (TWGGA), started an experimental vineyard at Texas A&M, sponsored a “shootout” wine competition between Texas and French wineries with the Texas Department of Agriculture, led Texas winegrowers on educational tours in Burgundy in 1991, Bordeaux 1994, Tuscany in 1998 and Alsace, Mosel, and Rheingau in 2000, taught students who are now leaders in the wine industry today and, by his account, scored over a thousand wines in his classes at Texas A&M and Grayson County College.

Clearly, “the wine guy,” has a long and storied history with Texas wines, and with KOV. He took time to share these stories with us — stories that, basically cover the entire history of Texas wines.

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THE ARBOR (TA): Dr. McEachern, it sounds like you hit the ground running when you arrived at Texas A&M. Tell us about that.

GEORGE RAY MCEACHERN (GM): I requested an assistantship at A&M to work on my Ph.D., however, the A&M Director of Extension talked to my major professor at LSU and decided to hire me as an employee of A&M Extension Service working half time with pecan and grape growers and half time on my studies. It was not a normal situation. So, I worked full time while I completed my degree, and finished in three years. That year —1973 — I was recognized as the most outstanding horticulture Ph.D. graduate in the Southern Region of the American Society of Horticultural Sciences.

TA: Initially, you were hired as a pecan specialist. How did you get into wines?

GM: In the early 70s, Texas A&M was planting experimental vineyards in College Station, Seguin, Midland, Overton, and Lubbock. I was asked to share the history of the A&M vineyard program with a group of Houston wine enthusiasts. At that meeting, a wine grower from California was presenting a vertical tasting of his wine and upon hearing our story, he said “I can help” and handed me a check for $1,000 to help get our program going. The next year, they invited me back and wrote me another check. This was before

By Nan McCreary continued >>>

The Arbor

The Texas Wine Guy Winter/Spring 2020

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Vinifera varieties. The grower/demonstrators also selected three varieties of their own choice.

The Texas A&M horticulture senior faculty at that time was not in support of new vineyard testing because in the mid 1950s several major Vitis Vinifera tablegrape vineyards in the Texas Winter Garden region southwest of San Antonio had failed due to Pierce’s Disease, Cotton Root Rot, high pH soil issues, and/or freeze.

As a result of these total failure vineyards, the 1970s faculty at A&M feared Vitis Vinifera could not be grown in Texas, and they were correct for south Texas.

However, Dr. Perry and I did not know if they would fail to live in north and/or west Texas. We decided to establish the test plots and they survived, grew, and produced.

KOV Houston was active. Although it seems it’s not much money, it was huge at the time.

TA: During this time, you also helped establish the first commercial vineyards in Texas. Do you consider these the origin of the Texas wine industry?

GM: I would not go that far, because Dr. Ron Perry as a horticulture research technician at Texas A&M was also planting experimental research vineyards at College Station, Midland, Lubbock, and Overton, Texas. I had an Extension test vineyard at Fredericksburg with Mr. Rae Hennon and Duery Menzies, Gillespie county Extension agent. My first major project was in 1974, when I was awarded a $500 grant to purchase vines which were planted in test vineyards across the state.

At the time, the only commercial vineyards were Val Verde Winery in Del Rio and Dr. Bobby Smith at Springtown, Texas. Two professors at Texas Tech; Dr. Clinton McPherson in chemistry and Dr. Robert Reed in horticulture also had a research vineyard west of Lubbock.

With the A&M grant and cooperation from A&M County Extension Agents and vineyard demonstrators, we created the test plots, we just discussed, where A&M provided the vines; and grower/demonstrators planted Extension test vineyards with irrigation and all production costs paid by the grower. Since we did not know if wine grapes would live and bear in Texas; we planted three types, three American varieties, three French-American hybrid varieties, and three Vitis

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TA: You helped Ed and Susan Auler, who are Supreme Knight and Supreme Lady and members of the Austin Chapter, plant Fall Creek, the first winery in the Texas Hill Country. Were there others?

GM: Initially, I helped plant seven others. It didn’t take long for the news to get out. People said, “Hey, Texas A&M is planting vineyards. Forget about you supplying the money, we’ll pay for everything.”

Eventually, I ended up helping plant 23 new vineyards.

Everyone wanted in on the ground floor. You have to remember, at the time, America did not really know wine. There was a boom in California — vineyard owners planted 10,000 acres in three years — and other states started planting wine grapes. For Texas A&M, it was our job to help new growers get started. It was what we were hired to do.

TA: What were you planting then?

GM: I had a mentor at the University of California at Davis, Dr. H. P. Olmo, and he said Texas would be a hard go, and we needed to plant the very toughest Vitis Vinifera varieties, which were Ruby Cabernet, French Colombard and Chenin Blanc. Well, these did fantastic. For a while, we stayed with these strong vigorous varieties. But all of the new growers want to grow the top Vitis Vinifera wine varieties; Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay.

The Arbor

TA: When did Texas begin to get international recognition?

GM: Early on. Around 1974-75, we received a call from the Texas Department of Agriculture in Austin for wine help and they referred them to me. They wanted to arrange a competition between Texas and French wines. I knew about putting on pecan shows, so I agreed to set up a tasting. We called it the “TexasFrench Wine Shootout.” At the time, we only had seven wineries in the state, but we did our thing and we won. Of course, the French were upset, so in the end, in order to encourage further cooperation, we did agree to call the competition a “draw.” But we know we won and, for us, it was the first time we had confidence that we could produce premium wines. It was a career-changing event: One little weekend deal ended up being a big deal in the long run. We had more shootouts — we even did one in Bordeaux where we hauled over seven cases of Texas wine on the airplane, and we did really well.

TA: When did you first become involved with KOV? GM: Initially, I was involved with two wine associations, KOV Houston (founded in 1978), which was headed by Gaye and Arthur Platt and another one that only did high-end wines. Gaye and Arthur were more interested in Texas wines, and always wanted to know how the new Texas wineries were doing, so I developed a close relationship with them. continued >>>

TA: The “educational wine tours” to European wine regions provided a great opportunity to Texas winegrowers. What inspired you to do this?

GM: One day I got a call from the president of A&M, asking if I was “the wine guy” and I said, “I guess that’s me!” He explained that Texas A&M had an exchange program for students with Burgundy and that we had been hosting their students, tuition-free, every year, and that he needed some of our students to go to Dijon to study. At the time, we only had one or two per year, so in place of students, we invited Texas wine growers to participate. The first year — 1973 — we had seven Texas winegrowers. Three years later, we went to Bordeaux, and visited the major chateaus. That year, we had 32 winemakers and they were all learning and gaining confidence. In another three years, we visited Tuscany, and then finally, in year 2000, we went to Alsace, Mosel, and Rheingau. By that time, we had gotten the word out, and all of the big wineries in Texas were participating. We were having a good time and we learned a lot. It all started with the A&M Student Exchange Program.

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HOUSTON CHAPTER CONT’D FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

TA: How has KOV impacted Texas A&M’s oenology program?

TA: How have you used the money that you have received from KOV?

GM: Big-time. They gave money (laughing). We called it “the envelope.” During KOV events, Gaye and Arthur would tell everyone they were supporting Texas A&M and they’d hand me an envelope from the chapter. For a long time, it was $500. Then I remember attending a KOV function at the Houstonian Hotel for the Sunday Brunch following their Assemblage (when Buddy Hagner had followed Gaye as the Commander for the Houston Chapter) and taking his wife, Trish, aside and saying, “I could sure use $1,000 to send a student to Adelaide, Australia.” The next thing I know she’s giving me a check for $2,500. I was so grateful I almost cried. The money is important, but the main thing is that we’re on the same page. We’re both committed to supporting the wine industry. Our growers have struggled for a long time. Bordeaux and Burgundy put down California because of its “jug wine” reputation, but now California produces the number one quality wine in the world. Today, all Texas wines are outstanding.

GM: For one thing, we’ve created a vineyard to support research in Pierce’s Disease, which is deadly to grapevines, especially in the south. Through this research, we’ve learned that one grape, Hussman (originally planted in Missouri) can survive the disease and has potential to be an outstanding wine. We just need to plant enough Hussman vineyards so we can make a large volume of wine. We have to come to grips with the fact that, to have a great wine, it doesn’t have to be a Vitis Vinifera. If you can grow this grape all the way from College Station, Texas to Savannah, Georgia, it will explode. In the past, it’s all been California, Oregon and Washington wines or nothing. But who’s to say how a wine is supposed to be? If you can grow it, and it’s good, people will enjoy it.

TA: You have had financial support over the years from Texas wine champions Arthur and Gaye Platt, who established the Arthur and Gaye Platt Research Fund, and you honored them recently by naming your lab the Arthur and Gaye Platt Wine Fermentation Laboratory, which we toured with you today. What is happening there?

GM: Our head winemaker, Dr. Andreea Botezatu, Assistant Professor & Extension Enology Specialist, uses the lab for teaching students. It’s also where she does research on grape flavors, specifically the Black Spanish grape, which never dies from Pierce’s Disease but has a sting when it hits the back of the palate.

It’s a fantastic grape, but we need to figure out what causes that problem with the finish. Dr. Botezatu and Dr. Justin Scheiner, along with other viticulture and enology specialists in the state, have received $800,000 grants two years in a row from the Texas State Legislature to support research which improves quality wine production in the state. This support is critical for the growth of wine science in Texas and also for helping all wine growers in Texas grow and produce wine equal to the best in the world.

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TA: Clearly, you have been there from the beginning to witness, firsthand, the emergence of Texas wines.

What changes have you noticed in the wine industry, in general.

GM: The rise of Texas wines has been dramatic. But the most important part of the wine industry, wherever you are, 100% depends on what goes into the glass. If what goes in the glass is less than perfect, no amount of promoting or advertising is going to help. From 1990 to 2000, we’ve seen more technical improvement in wine quality production than in the entire history of the industry. All of the improvements — including sterile filtration, cultured yeast, temperature control, and stainless steel — have all worked together to create better wines. Today, there are no bad wines. And Texas wines are as good as any in the world.

TA: You have been at Texas A&M for 51 years now.

Do you ever plan to retire?

GM: (Laughing) I keep thinking about it, but it just doesn’t happen. Right now, I’m teaching one pecan class, one on wine tasting and one on viticulture. Plus, we have a Pierce’s Disease Tolerance Vineyard that is

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20 years old and still going strong. We must never forget, if the weather is perfect for Pierce’s Disease, we could lose a lot of Vitis Vinifer vineyards in Texas. Dr. Schiner is testing new UC-Davis wine cultivars which are 90% Vitis Vinifera with excellent wine quality. He and Dr. Botezatu will be focused on wines from these for the coming years.

TA: You have seen many students come and go over the years. Do these students receive a degree in oenology at Texas A&M? GM: No, they get their degree in horticulture, with a certificate in viticulture and enology. They have to pass eight courses and pass a test to receive the certificate.

You can get a B.S. or a M.S. horticulture degree at A&M, but you have to go to U.C. Davis or Cornell University to get a Ph.D. in viticulture and oenology.

TA: Dr. Mc McEachern, you have been, and are, a wonderful asset to KOV and to the Texas wine industry. Thank you for taking the time to talk with us.

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SUMMER FUN: BBQ & BLUEGRASS

As it was a perfectly lovely and balmy evening we enjoyed visiting and being outdoors. If only this beautiful weather could last!

AT

2016 BORDEAUX:

JACKASS RIDGE A GREAT VINTAGE

Lake Tahoe

All Articles by Veronica Rollman Kaufman

July at Lake Tahoe is the perfect time for outdoor festivities and dining. Gentle Lady Stefani Olivieri offered her lovely ranch in Truckee for the Lake Tahoe Chapter’s annual Western themed party time.

The home of Master Commander Ernie Grossman and Master Lady, Margaret Lewicki was the venue for yet another wonderful wine and food pairing experience in Truckee.

Wine tasting and Bluegrass music plus yummy hors d’oeuvres were enjoyed at the Barn. I don’t think the horses who once lived there would have recognized their lovely quarters! Following the entertainment, munchies, and wine, we, almost 100 strong, walked the short path to the outdoor terrace at Stefanie’s beautiful mountain home.

As we relaxed outdoors on another balmy August night, imagining ourselves cruising down the Gironde River in France, our own Sommelier, Sudsy Torbeck, treated us to tastings of the 2016 Bordeaux (most of which are, as yet, unavailable). We were treated to Bordeaux from Saint Estephe, Pauillac, Saint Julien, Margaux and Pessac Leognan.

Master Knight and Cellar Master Ron Finolio not only provided the selection of difficult to get wines, he also gave us a truly informative and interesting talk on the role of the tastevin. While many of our members probably know a great deal about the mysteries of tasting, smelling, seeing wine, there were many of us who were delighted to understand more from Ron’s talk.

Sudsy explained the legal requirements of what can be named “Bordeaux” and shared with the 50 of us enjoying the evening the reviews of several of the most respected wine connoisseurs. It was both fun and a challenge to identify both the “nose” and taste descriptions; think “cigar box”! The 2016 vintage truly holds great promise to be a remarkable example of the wines from this region of France.

Chef Ron Allen (how could we have a barbecue without Ron?) prepared a feast of barbecue ribs, brisket and salmon accompanied by baked beans, green salad, orzo salad and corn bread. Wonderfully refreshing sangrias were prepared by our Gentle Lady Stephanie Harris: traditional red wine and citrus fruit or (my personal favorite) a white wine and fresh peach sangria.

A new twist was added this year: a cookie baking contest. Prizes were awarded while most of us just enjoyed sampling the many varieties offered.

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We were treated to an “in house” prepared dinner paired with a 2016 Bordeaux wine from the Haut Medoc area of the Left Bank of the Gironde.

The incredibly tender and delicious barbecued Prime Tri-Tip steaks were prepared by KOV Knight Richard Mackler. Lady Stephanie Harris prepared the baked potatoes and salad, accompanied by locally baked crusty French bread. A “surprise” dessert of baklava was beautifully paired with 2016 Sauternes.

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True to Ernie Grossman’s enduring good luck with Truckee conditions for KOV events, the August summer evening was warm and dry with none of the unexpected hail storms we often experience at this time nor the swarms of yellow jackets that seem to hear about all outdoor dining experiences in August.

HOLIDAY GATHERING Master Commander Ernie Grossman and his lovely wife, Gentle Lady Margaret Lewicki hosted the Lake Tahoe KOV annual Ecumenical KOV Holiday Brunch on December 8. As usual, snow was on the ground but Ernie’s remarkable weather karma produced a lovely, sunny day for his and Margaret’s70+ guests to gather at their beautiful home in Truckee.

The KOV contingent was also treated to the induction of two new members who had been unable to attend the annual Assemblage: Lisa Hernandez and Michael Sabarase. The test to determine whether our new inductees could distinguish between water and wine was brief as it was clear by then that they could indeed tell what was Prosecco and what was water!

So, Happy Hanukkah and a very Merry Christmas along with Lake Tahoe Chapter’s best wishes for a Healthy, Happy, and wine filled 2020! continued >>>

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LAKE TAHOE CHAPTER CONT’D FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

TAHOE ASSEMBLAGE at the

MONTREUX COUNTRY CLUB Fall foliage, full moon, festive and fun-loving KOV members and guests, fabulous food (and way too much alliteration) set the scene for the 19th Lake Tahoe Chapter of Knights of the Vine Assemblage at the lovely Montreux Country Club in Reno, Nevada.

Master Herald, Larry Axelrod, called the Assemblage to order and announced the procession of Lake Tahoe Officers: Master Knight Peter Bosco (and Provost General of the Northwest US of the KOV and Master Cup Bearer of the Tahoe Chapter); Master Lady Margaret Lewicki, Master Secretary; Master Commander Emeritus (San Francisco) Roland Medel; Master Lady Stephanie A. Harris, Chargé d’Affaires; and, Gentle Lady Veronica R. Kaufman, Scribe. Our Master Commander Ernie Grossman initiated the proceedings to not only celebrate the Fall Harvest, rededicate ourselves to all aspects of wine, but also to contin-

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ue our traditions and receive the worthy nominees for membership in our Brotherhood. Per Vitem! Ad Vitam!

Master Herald Larry Axelrod announced that this is the night to honor our esteemed colleague, Gentle Lady Claire (“Sudsy”) Torbeck. Master Commander Ernie Grossman, in recognition of “Sudsy’s” accomplishments as a certified Sommelier, wine educator, wine judge and winemaker, elevated her to Master Lady!

Four candidates were presented for induction this year to our Chapter. One of these candidates, Bill Staehlin, was inducted on this lovely evening. Bill is a Structural Engineer who, in “retirement” has become a wine judge, sommelier, wine educator, winemaker with numerous gold and silver awards as well as an officer in the prestigious Sacramento Home Winemakers. Bill was welcomed as a Master Knight of our order.

It was a perfect event and evening in every way, but, wait…..?! what’s this?

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After the ceremonies were complete we enjoyed passed appetizers of smoked trout rilles toasts, house duck prosciutto and melon and beet canapĂŠs with herbed goat cheese and candied pecan accompanied

by Cremant d’Alsace Brut Rose Reserve Pinot Noir, Albrecht tradition.

After visiting with our friends and companions, we sat down to enjoy the first course: fall squash soup with brown butter custard and spiced pumpkin seeds accompanied by 2018 J Pinot Gris from the Russian River area. Yum! The second course, seared duck breast on a bed of celery root puree with roasted root vegetables and sunchoke chips was complemented with 2014 Baileyana Firepeak Pinot Noir from Edna Valley. The finale was the perfect finish: A cheese board which featured

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Midnight Moon goat gouda, Marin truffle brie and Spanish manchego with house jams and yummy house profiteroles which were both savory and sweet; Benedictine and Brandy provided the delightfully appropriate complement.

Thank you to Executive Chef Willie Carroll for an extraordinary and delicious dinner! Music throughout the evening and for dancing after was performed by our much appreciated musicians, Johnny Bias and Chuck Dunn.

A special thank you to Stephanie A. Harris who did the heavy lifting of organizing this delightful and complicated event. continued >>>

LAKE TAHOE CHAPTER CONT’D FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

WINE COUNTRY Mendocino

Style

This chapter has an extraordinary history of wine trips to such regions as Rogue River, Oregon, Napa Valley, the Santa Cruz mountains, Paso Robles/Edna Valley, even to the Volcano Winery on the big Island of Hawaii. Well once again a stolid group of some dozen and a half migrants fell into the environs of Fort Bragg, Mendocino County and were totally absorbed into the aromas and tastes of fabulous wines and foods and unique events.

On opening day, Friday, September 6th, the group took sole possession of the B & B, Glass Beach Inn for the weekend’s excursion. Having carpooled to the historic Little River Inn, we were treated to the annual Pinot Celebration, a festival of pinot noirs being poured by dozens of local wineries along with delectable morsels.

Saturday saw a continuation of this annual wine festival with the 35th presentation of “WineSong 2019”, perhaps a hundred wineries, perhaps a hundred food purveyors, all included in the price of admission at the Coast Botanical Gardens, an inspiring venue to commune with nature.

On Sunday we boarded the Skunk Train for a run along the Pudding Creek estuary, teeming with wildlife and first growth forest. But Sunday night we had the unique pleasure of visiting Pacific Star Winery, the only such property situated on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Coaches transferred us over the twenty miles of winding Highway 101 so that we could feel free to experience the lovely wines without the peril of driving.

Following a private tour, we had a wine infused picnic dinner, watched the sun set and told tales around the wine keg fueled bonfire.

Camaraderie: you bet! And already looking forward to the next excursion.

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In Memoriam Paul John Maroon (1947 – 2019) It is with great sadness that we share the news that Paul Maroon, a Master Knight of the San Francisco Bay Area Chapter, succumbed to cancer October 15, 2019 with his loving wife, Renée, by his side.

Paul, an extraordinarily gracious host and devoted family man, never met a person that didn’t become a fast friend. He was beloved by countless friends and relatives and will be sorely missed. Born in Scranton, Pennsylvania to loving Lebanese parents, Paul was the first in his family to attend college, graduating from Keystone College with a degree in engineering, later coming to California to earn his MBA. After many successful entrepreneurial endeavors, in the late 1990s Paul began the journey to fulfill his life-long dream to create his own boutique small production winery in Napa Valley.

His interest stemmed from his agricultural roots working with his father in his family’s produce business and later producing wine with his uncle in Pennsylvania. He started with the purchase of 300 acres on the backside of Howell Mountain in Pope Valley then ultimately the 37 acres within the gates of the Napa Valley Country Club that would become Maroon Vineyard’s permanent home in what is now included in the prestigious “Coombsville appellation.”

shared that the “best decision he made in his whole life” was to marry Renée! They shared a unique partnership that was based upon their deep respect for one another’s one-of-a kind personality, their common love of entertaining, and the joy of sharing their beautiful estate as well as their wines. From this hillside location they enjoy breathtaking views of the valley and north to Mt. St Helena.

Paul joined the San Francisco Bay Area chapter as a Master Knight in 2014. Since then, Paul has been a loyal member, and has hosted Vintner dinners at the Napa Valley Country Club, a holiday Celebration at his home in Coombsville, and donated wines to many charitable events in the Napa Valley.

Renée will further Paul’s legacy through the continued operation of Maroon Wines with the expert help of his devoted winery team. Paul has been a great friend and supporter of the KOV - he will be dearly missed.

In 2010, Paul was reunited with the love of his life, Renée Bollo, whom he had met some 20 years earlier when residing on the San Francisco Peninsula in Portola Valley. Paul recently

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San Francisco

BUSY IN THE BAY AREA It all began in early August with our 4th Annual Shakespeare Under The Stars at the always beautiful Buena Vista Winery in Sonoma. With reserved seating for our group, centered in the Fountain Courtyard, we had great views of the Avalon Players as they expertly preformed Shakespeare’s As You Like It! We were especially pleased to welcome out of town guests Grand Commander Buddy Hagner, Master Lady (Houston) Trish Hagner, Commander Emeritus (Austin) Jerry Gatlin and Gentle Lady Susan Gatlin who got to experience this occasion for the first time!

A venue like no other, especially during the near perfect August evenings, attendees brought their own picnic dinner and sampled many of Buena Vista’s array of wines which we were able to purchase at generous Club discounts for our KOV members and guests.

We keep coming back for more each year!

Next was the ever popular date with the Napa Valley Country Club where a delicious feast of wine and food was enjoyed at the 2019 Harvest Wine Reception held in October. Due to the frequent power outages suffered by the Valley this fire season, the event was rescheduled, and sadly many of our invitees were unable to attend the alternate date. However, for the few San Francisco Bay Area Chapter members who were in attendance, the annual Napa Valley wine and food event was a great way to enjoy the fabulous bounty for which Napa is famously known.

BY PAT PINGITORE & FRAN BENEVIDEZ The Arbor

Eighteen member owned wineries were on hand to pour wines ranging from a sumptuous Buoncristiani Triad Blanc to von Strasser’s Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, and many more in between! Executive Chef Rick Edge provided a lovely array of appetizers and entrees to pair with the wines, ensuring no one went home hungry.

We are already looking forward to next October!

Finally we returned once more to the home of Knight and Gentle Lady Scooter and Andrea Blacklock in Brisbane for a Holiday Celebration in December that included a variety of international wines paired with a paella and salad feast and holiday desserts.

Andi & Scooter Blacklock with Lewis & Michelle Philips

Our members were challenged to blind taste wines from South Africa, Australia, Portugal, France and America and guess their origins and varietals; not an easy task given how advanced and competitive many of these International wine makers have become. Most were amazed at the quality and excellence shown, especially the South African Bordeaux blend from Stellenbosch (Meerlust Estate’s Rubicon). Chef/Somm Brandon Rowan - Taylor was the most accurate!

The Blacklock home, festooned with holiday decorations, was a fitting venue to celebrate the end of another successful year!

Manny, and the Gatlins

Gordon White, Dick Katz, Pat & Jill Pingitore,Vince Ciolino

Vince & Lise2020 Ciolino Winter/Spring

Linda & Pat Pingitoe with chef & sommelier Brandon Rowan-Taylor

It’s a Tough Job But Somebody’s

Gotta Do It

By Lynn Lofton

Gulf Coast

Rod & Donna, John & Adrienne

Ah, the fruit of the vine — growing in popularity and appreciation everywhere. The Gulf Coast Chapter is doing its part to spread this message with its increasing membership and events throughout the year.

Master Commander John Boothby says, “It’s a tough job but somebody’s gotta do it and we’ve appointed ourselves to proclaim the word across the Mississippi Coast and beyond.”

A Rosé Tasting was held at The Roost inside The Wilbur, a boutique hotel in the charming seaside town of Ocean Springs. Wines sampled and enjoyed were Cicada’s Song (Provence), Belluda (Languedoc), Raw (Spain), Patton Valley (Willamette, Oregon), and Chateau des Annibals (Provence). Tasty dishes prepared by the restaurant’s talented chef were paired with the wines.

Gentle ladies with fellow Knight Michael McKay

In October costumed members and guests gathered for a fun Halloween Party at Jazzeppi’s in Biloxi. The costumes were so elaborate it was difficult to recognize everyone. The bar was open for wine and cocktails and delicious food was prepared by the restaurant. Finalists in the costume contest were Mike McKay, Michael Sunderman, Holly Ray and Cathy Roe. Master Commander John Boothby, aka Lurch, announced the winner by the crowd’s vote as Mike McKay, who was disguised as a voodoo doll complete with pins, and presented him with the prize of a fabulous basket of wine (carefully curated of course).

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Our chapter also enjoyed a fantastic wine dinner at Stalla restaurant located in the Beau Rivage Casino & Resort. Master Sommelier Will Costello and Solomon Hills Estate Vineyards hosted this evening of fine wines expertly paired with gourmet dishes. He was assisted by our host, Henry Hall, sommelier at the Beau Rivage.

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1

2

4

1 Roost Susan Cain & Mary Sunderman 2 Jim & Maggie Clarkson 3 Harry Hall Beau Rivage sommelier & Will Costello Master Sommelier of Bien Nacido and Solomon Hills Estate 4 Roost Lisa Glavan & Kristi Payne

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No group outdoes the Gulf Coast Chapter when it comes to holiday parties and the 2019 Christmas Party was no exception. Members and guests converged on the home of Commander and Gentle Lady John and Adrienne Boothby with bottles of wine and home-made appetizers in hand. A grand ole time was had by all to bring a fitting close to the year’s chapter events.

Winner of Hallowine Mike McKay and Cheryl

Adrienne Mikell & Windy Stanton

Mary & Michael Sunderman

Lynn Lofton & Joff Clarke

Chris and Wanda

Barbara Allen & Holly Ray Adrienne and John Boothby, Donna and Rob Krentel at the Stalla wine dinner Winter/Spring 2020

Rod, Scott and John aka Lurch

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MEMBERS IN THE NEWS JIM SKELTON Knight Jim Skelton of the Houston Chapter served in the Peace Corps between 1970 and 1972 and worked with a group of volunteers on a project that had significant impact on the eradication of smallpox in Ethiopia. Their work has been documented in a book available now on Amazon and soon as a Kindle eBook.

He was the lead editor and a coauthor of Eradicating Smallpox in Ethiopia: Peace Corps Volunteers’ Accounts of Their Adventures, Challenges and Achievements which was a five and a half year project to tell a wide variety of unique stories about the experience of the PCV’s (Peace Corps Volunteers) from their days of service in the Smallpox Eradication Program (SEP) in Ethiopia in the 1970s. Among the contributors to the book are 15 former PCVs, Dr. D. A. Henderson, the Director of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global SEP, and Dr. Ciro de Quadros, WHO Epidemiologist in charge of field operations in Ethiopia.

The authors have written about their first-hand personal and work experiences during the implementation of the program under the demanding working and living conditions that existed in the country at the time. The last case in Ethiopia was discovered in 1976 and the last case in the world was discovered in Somalia in 1977. The disease was officially declared eradicated in 1979, which is significant because it was the first and only time a human disease has been eradicated.

RON FENOLIO Ron Fenolio, Master Knight and member of the Tahoe Chapter was recently elected Chair for a two year term of the Family Winemakers of California, a trade association of some 350 boutique wineries. Amongst other things, Ron is the CEO, Founder, and Proprietor of Veedercrest Estates, Napa Valley, founded in 1972.

MEMBE 44

ARTHUR & GAYE PLATT On October 18, 2019, the Arthur and Gaye Platt Fermentation Lab at Texas A&M University was dedicated. Arthur and Gaye have been staunch supporters of the work done by the university under the leadership of Dr. George Ray McEachern. After having established the Arthur and Gaye Platt Research Foundation many years ago, the university, in its continuing efforts to support the Texas wine industry, in particular, expanded and updated its teaching laboratory. It was at that time that the university decided they wanted to honor Arthur and Gaye Platt in this significant way.

Gaye is the Lady Master Commander Emeritus of the Houston Chapter and her husband, Arthur, who is now deceased, led the Houston Chapter for many years. Dr. George Ray McEachern is a Supreme Knight and great friend of the Houston Chapter.

RICHARD ABELKIS The Knights and Gentle Ladies of the Nation’s Capital Chapter celebrated Knight Richard Abelkis who was promoted to the rank of Colonel in the United States Army on 1 January 2020. Richard is a network engineer (Signal Officer) and is stationed at the Pentagon in Washington, DC where he manages the Information Technology Budget for the Army. He has served in the Army for 31 years and deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait.

ERS IN 45

Good times in

Tennessee

The Tennessee Chapter celebrated the end of the summer with two events at the same time. The Ladies of the Knight gathered at the home of Gentle Lady Beth Webb for a flower arranging class. Nancy Toms, a former florist, showed the group how to create beautiful arrangements at home with flowers from the grocery store or warehouse stores. She demonstrated several arrangements and used cut greenery from the yard to supplement. The arrangements, along with other gifts, were given away as door prizes.

Of course, all of this was enjoyed with plenty of wine and hors d’oeuvres. While the ladies were receiving floral instruction, the men were enjoying a bourbon tasting at a nearby Scottish pub. Five small distillery craft bourbons were sampled with the crowd favorite being a Chattanooga, Tennessee bourbon!

In September, we stepped it up a notch with an elegant wine dinner in a private dining room at a renowned Memphis eatery, Erling Jensen The Restaurant.

Chef Erling prepared a delicious menu for members and guests who shared stories of their travels and activities during the summer.

October means Oktoberfest and we celebrated at the home of Walter and Gentle Lady Holly Elkins with plenty of wine, no beer allowed! Members prepared the German dinner, which

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included beef rouladen, chicken and red cabbage and, of course, potatoes. Tom Webb conducted a blind tasting of a German and an American Riesling and the hands down favorite was the Washington State Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling. The star of the evening was the new “all season” room—complete with moveable glass walls--recently added to the Elkins home. We quickly identified their new addition as “our new party room.”

We ended 2019 with our annual Christmas party at the beautiful new home of Guy and Gentle Lady Christina See. Guy prepared a delicious beef tenderloin and members brought an assortment of wine and hors d’oeuvres to complement the beef. Tom Webb conducted another blind tasting, this time with two cabernet sauvignons, French and American. There was no clear favorite as partiers loved both! The evening ended with a large group sipping port, of course, while gathered around a roaring fire on the screened porch.

Our next event will be our annual Feast of St Vincent Assemblage--celebrating grape growers and wine makers all over the world.

Robert & Debbie Meyers

By Beth Webb

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Tom Webb, Holly & Walter Elkins, and Gayle Bennett at our Oktoberfest event

Members enjoy a bourbon tasting at a local pub

Sandy Barrios,Tom Webb, Jason & Karrie LaCroix

Jason LaCroix, Bob Bennett, and Frank Andrasik

Marilyn Schubert, Peggy Larkin and Sheila Bentley

Guy See and Bob Schubert

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Christina See, Frank & Candy Andrasik, and John Barrios

John Barrios and Mark Ozemba discussing 47the whiskey

Chancellery Chapter

Summer Luau

The Chancellery chapter decided to take on summer with a Luau themed gathering at the lovely backyard of Knight John and Lee Ford.

The Ford’s are new members and are part of what we affectionately refer to as “The Spyglass Gang”. Spyglass Court, in Auburn, California is home to many members of the Chancellery and Lake Tahoe Chapters; a close-knit community with a shared love for comradery and of course wine!

It was a cool fall evening and the weather was cooperating, for the most part that is. A mere 24 hours earlier, the Spyglass Court area was experiencing a severe thunderstorm, and thirty miles down the road in the Davis-Sacramento area, a tornado touched down. You may think that it’s not a big deal, but tornadoes are not a common thing in California.

Outside and around the pool, we assembled for an educational program. Master Commander Chik Brenneman, now freshly retired, and still yearning to teach, put together a wine tasting of five different Zinfandel clones that were made as part of a public-private partnership between UC Davis and the Zinfandel Advocates and Producers (ZAP). The project showcased the so-called Heritage Zinfandel vineyards that were located throughout California having been originally planted around the time of the gold rush. Over the years they have developed characteristics specific to the site and UC Davis and ZAP sought to undertake a scientific study on not only what made them similar, but how were they different. It was interesting to see which clone was the favorite and if people

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could tell if there was a difference. We’ll save revealing the crowd favorite, for another tasting at another time. You have to experience the wines to understand the irony.

Absorbing all that knowledge was hungry business and everyone was ready to enjoy the dinner that Amanda from California Catering in Auburn prepared for us. We started the evening with a beautiful assortment of appetizers.

The bruschetta bar was a hit, complemented with home-made onion dip, caprese skewers and herb roasted shrimp. We then enjoyed a buffet that included kalua pork, sesame chicken, island rice and a personal favorite, smoked chili scalloped sweet potatoes. We picked out some interesting wine to accompany the evening’s meal including an Austrian Gruner Veltliner and a South African Chenin Blanc amongst others.

Just as we were finishing dinner and about to dig into some delish desserts prepared by some of the Spyglass ladies, the weather decided to play a role in the evening’s festivities. Before you could say “rain”, another thunderstorm came along and we engaged in the fastest cleanup you’ve ever seen and moved indoors.

The tables, chairs, desserts and of course the wine quickly went into the garage and the party transitioned beautfully into the house. We didn’t miss a beat and the wonderful conversation continued by the fire in the family room.

Thank you again to the Fords for hosting a lovely event at their home.

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From Friday Flights to the

Annual PIER

Monterey

The Monterey Chapter has had an eventful six months.

Our Friday Night tasting included gatherings at Scheid and De Tierra Tasting rooms. Both of these venues are located in Carmel-by-the-Sea along with another dozen or so tasting rooms all located within walking distance of each other. Galante, Windy Oaks and Dawn’s Dream, our other winery members are all within a stone’s throw.

PARTY

We have emulated the Lodi chapter and organized a Friday Knights’ Flights program that includes a flight of wines coupled with cheese and crackers. Wines are offered at wine club prices and the members bring their purchased bottles to local restaurants for an evening of food and wine extraordinaire.

On September 1st we had the honor of hosting long time member Master Knight Eric Wente at the home of Ernie and Candy Scalberg. The stunning array of Wente wines were personally presented by Eric.

A multitude of offerings included Wente’s premiere label Nth Degree. Wente also offers an Artist Series of wines in addition to their flagship Wente label. Close to a dozen wines were offered and the membership was duly impressed with the breadth and quality of the wines.

To complement the wine was the magic of Master Lady, Chef Wendy Brodie. Chef Brodie engaged a number of volunteers to offer a mozzarella bar, a risotto station, bouillabaisse and smoked brisket. The food was exceptional.

We were honored with

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LEFT Alix Bosch and Dan McDonnal our new members and owners of DeTierra Vineyards TOP OF PAGE Master Commander Rich Kehoe, Grand Commander Buddy Hagner and Eric Wente ABOVE Eric Wente Addresses the Monterey Chapter members

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the presence of Grand Commander Buddy Hagner and Master Lady Trish Hagner. All this was amplified by the 180 degree views of the Carmel Highland’s Pacific Coast made possible by our hosts Ernie and Candy Scalberg.

October is the month of exceptional weather on the California coast. We have enjoyed the sunshine for over thirty years with our Pier Party at Stillwater Cove in Pebble Beach. Over 100 members and guests enjoyed the confluence of the Pebble Beach Golf course with the rugged outline of Point Lobos. All this while perched on a pier over the Pacific calm of Stillwater Cove.

Winemakers from De Tierra and Talbott offered their current releases, while member wineries Dawn’s Dream, Galante, Scheid, Wente and Windy Oaks all provided assorted bottles of yumminess. Grilled sausage, pate, shrimp, escargot and cheese were provided by grill masters Scott Scheid and Jack Galante, Chef Didier Dutertre of Bistro Moulin, and Chef Wendy Brodie from the Art of Food. A sit down meal followed with offerings of ribeye steak, salmon, and salads. The jazz of Scotty Wright provided a mellow backdrop for this day of decadence.

Supreme Knight Jack Galante with Supreme Knight elect Scott Scheid

Master Gentle Lady Colleen Manni and Master Knight Didier Dutertre Grill MASTER Scott Scheid!

Galante,Windy Oaks and Wente,Wines at Pebble Beach

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FICB International Congress ~ REPORT

Pat Pingitore ~ International Emissary

The annual FICB meeting was held in Paris February 2122nd and the following is a synopsis of salient points that may be of interest to fellow KOV members. Please note that many of the details will be published very soon on the FICB website at www.winebrotherhoods.org.

GENERAL The Organization is healthy and still growing with a total of 56 Brotherhoods now actively participating. Among the latest additions, is a Brotherhood from Madeira Spain, which is eager to invite the world.

Also new is the Renaud Society, another International Brotherhood based out of Arizona with many members in our own Chapter locales. I discussed synergies with their Grand Commander, Tedd Goldfinger, who was impressed with the many events being planned for the FICB and those of our own local Chapters.

I will connect the KOV Chapter Commanders with Tedd to explore.

Additional areas being targeted for recruitment in the coming year include Chablis, Alsace, Beaujolais, Macon (and Viet Nam with whom one of the Swiss delegation has been in contact)!

LEADERSHIP Mark Lesk, the new Secretary General, was recruited and approved. He is now a member of the Board.

Among his duties, Mark will take over the website management as well as the minutes and dissemination of information.

Mark is a retired informatics and operational engineer with a love of wine, art and music. He writes a blog which is quite interesting and unique. Check it out at www.aubonclos.blog.

Additional seats on the Executive committee have been created because of some retirements and are being filled with the many new leaders joining.

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WEBSITE The website is very active with an average of 50 visits per day.

A new feature of the website is a calendar of events which can include any KOV event for which we would like to extend an international invitation. A good example would be an invitation to our National meeting in April for those Europeans traveling to California this year. Anyone with a suitable event, can send their information to Mark at the FICB to be posted. (marc.lesk@ wanadoo.fr.).

An additional, soon to be live feature, will be an interactive multi-lexicon of wine terminology in five languages as developed by the University of Burgundy in Dijon.

The plan is to have it also available for smart phones within the next year. It will be a great tool for our traveling wine lovers.

Any articles of general interest from the US to the International Brotherhoods can also be posted on the FICB website by sending them to Mark.

An online payment system is also being developed for the convenience of the Brotherhoods to pay their annual dues.

DIPLOMA OF HONOR The FICB is always looking for suitable candidates to honor with this prestigious award. The candidate must have an important, prominent role in the world of wine on an International basis.

Examples of past recipients as nominated and honored from the KOV include Supreme Knights Alan Shoup of the Washington Chapter, Jean Charles Boisset and Gina Gallo of the San Francisco/Bay Area Chapter. Anyone with knowledge of a suitable candidate should contact me for information on the process of nomination.

BUDGET With a growing membership, the FICB Budget results are healthy and reserves growing. Details are available for those interested but in a nutshell, the 2019 results showed a surplus of 1971Euros, adding to a balance sheet reserves topping 25000 Euros. The 2020 budget looks to add another 5000Euros of surplus to those reserves. Therefore, no change was proposed in FICB dues.

UPCOMING EVENTS Congress 2020 in Alba: 6/4/20 - 6/7/20 with Extension 6/7-6/10/20 As predicted this event has sold out with 197 attendees registered and paid for. KOV was able to get 72 seats while the OWB got 24, making the US contingent almost half of the attendees. Although painful, the process of allotment of seats resulted in a record 33 Brotherhoods represented.

For those of you registered, getting to Alba is best arranged via the Milan Malpensa Airport (many more flight options) or Turin Caselle Airport. Once you have made your travel plans, please let the tour operator know your flight info so they can perhaps arrange group transfers at reasonable rates. The tour manager is: Langhe Experience Tours : tour@langhe-experience.it For anyone who missed the opportunity and is still interested, there is a possibility that this same tour operator can arrange a small (15-20) tour with a similar itinerary in November during truffle season! PLEASE LET ME KNOW ASAP IF INTERESTED! International Wine Challenge 2021: 6/3- 6/6/21 in Eger & Tokaj; Extension, 6/6-6/8/21 in Budapest.

On the heels of the inaugural and successful Wine Challenge held in Finland in June 2019, the FICB has arranged with the Sisters of Pannonia of Hungary to host the next one. Originally this was slated for Hong Kong with an extension to Macau, but last year’s political demonstrations and the current health crisis, has created a recession in Hong Kong and forced them to cancel. The format will be similar to that of Finland.

The Sisterhood has put together a very nice package, the details of which will be on the FICB website. Pric-

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es will be 890-1030 Euros/person for the wine Challenge and 760 Euros for the extension. Registration begins June 2020. Stay tuned for registration information from the National office. By the way, Hungary in 2010 was another most successful Congress!

Congress 2022 Oporto Portugal : 5/27- 5/31/2022; Extension Lisbon & environs 6/1-6/3/2022.

(Carcavelos & Evora) The same organizers of the most wonderful 1998 Congress have agreed to essentially duplicate the popular itinerary for 2022. Details (that are currently available) will be posted on the FICB website shortly. Registration information will be available May 2021 and registration will open that month, with “early bird” discounts for those registering before October 31, 2021.

Oporto has become a very popular tourist destination so booking rooms early is of paramount importance.

Forecast prices look like 1550Euros/person for Congress and 650 Euros for the Extension. I attended that Congress (my first) and have never forgotten how great it was - one of my 3 most favorites ever!

There should be no limit on participants!!

Wine Discovery Tours Requests for proposals are about to go out for Brotherhoods to host these unique tours for 50 participants max.

These events will be 3-4 days with no extension. They will be casual with no formal events (no scientific session or procession). Brotherhoods interested in hosting already include: Slovenia, Madeira, and Lake Geneva.

These might be scheduled any year, even if there is a Challenge Event or Congress. Too many International events? Give me your feedback so I may report back!!!

The Finland and Korea Chapters have directly affiliated with the FICB and are no longer considered chapters within KOV; much like Japan did many years ago.

Due to location and language difference, among other things, it makes sense although we will miss counting them among our members.

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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) $37.00 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) $47.00 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

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(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 3343 Industrial Drive, Suite 2 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 1340 Crestmont Drive Angwin, CA 94508 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 Kenneth Levy P.O. Box 506 Lodi, CA 95241-0506 Phone: 209-663-8834 levykenneth@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 3343 Industrial Drive, Ste. 2 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 bobbennett@gmail.com TEXAS Austin Chapter Commander J. Buckner Hightower P.O. Box 161733 Austin, TX 78716 Phone: 512-363-2279 Buckhightower@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 3343 Industrial Drive, Ste. 2 Santa Rosa, CA 95403 707-579-3781

visit us online at

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

Winter/Spring 2020

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 Dick Erath Lester A. Fleming Joseph S. Franzia Jeryl R. Fry, Jr. Jack Galante Miljenko M. Grgich Robert P. Hartzell Gary B. Heck Timo Jokinen John H. Kautz Aram Kinosian John K. Ledbetter Lloyd G. Magee Orville T. Magoon George R. McEachern, Ph.D. John P. McClelland J. Douglas Meador R. Michael Mondavi Timothy J. Mondavi Justin Morris, Ph.D. Charles W. Nagel, Ph.D. John A. Parducci Robert Pellegrini Richard Peterson, Ph.D. Vincent E. Petrucci Jefferson Peyser Mathew J. Post G.M. “Pooch” Pucilowski George Radanovich Alfred G. Scheid Scott Scheid Thomas B. Selfridge Allen Shoup Peter F. Sichel Raymond Skinner, Jr. Christopher D. Smith Howard E. Somers Richard H. Sommer Mike Thompson Alex Trebek Peter H. Ventura Richard P. Vine, Ph.D. Fay Wheeler Al Wiederkehr Warren P. Winiarski John H. Wright

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

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ÂŽ

the brotherhood of the knights of the vine

National Headquarters 3343 Industrial Drive, Suite 2 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!