Winter Spring 2013

Sweet Wines Have Been ‘In’ for 8,000 Years The Art of Wine Making FICB General Assembly at Musée du Vin Valle de Guadalupe Winter/Spring 2013

Supreme Knights Bradley Alderson David G. Armanasco Paul V. Bonarrigo Robert L. Balzer James “Bo” Barrett David Berkley 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 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. Gordon W. Murchie Charles W. Nagel, Ph.D. John A. Parducci John A. Pedroncelli Stephen Pessagno Robert Pellegrini Richard Peterson, Ph.D. Vincent E. Petrucci Jefferson Peyser Mathew J. Post G.M. “Pooch” Pucilowski George Radanovich Alfred G. Scheid Thomas B. Selfridge Allen Shoup Peter F. Sichel Raymond Skinner, Jr. 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 Heidi Peterson Barrett Merrill Bonarrigo Zelma R. Long Margrit Biever Mondavi Michaela K. Rodeno Jean R. Wente

National Headquarters

3343 Industrial Drive, Suite 2, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 Phone: 707.579.3781 Fax: 707.579.3996 www.kov.org

Directors Terrance K. McCleerey, Chairman Donald D. Bade, Michael D. Doukas, O. Neill Foster, Kenneth A. Haapala, Robert C. Hagner, Jr., Pasquale “Pat” Pingitore, John Tudor, Tom Webb

Grand Officers Terrance K. McCleerey, Grand Commander Robert Hagner, Jr., Grand Vice Commander Donald D. Bade, Grand Treasurer John Tudor, Grand Administrative Officer

Grand Council Terrance K. McCleerey, Grand Commander Robert Hagner, Jr., Grand Vice Commander Donald D. Bade, Grand Treasurer John Tudor, Grand Administrative Officer Kenneth Haapala, Master Commander, Nation’s Capital Chapter Norman Harris, Master Commander, Mississippi Chapter Pasquale “Pat” Pingitore, International Emissary Michael D. Doukas, Grand Commander Emeritus L. William Hegland, Grand Commander Emeritus

~

Carol L. Bade, Executive Director

Provosts Provost General, Northeastern United States Commander Kenneth Haapala ken@haapala.com

Provost General, Southeastern United States Mr. Thomas Storey tbs@esmhe.net

Provost General, Northwestern United States Mr. Peter Bosco bred1@att.net

Provost General, Southwestern United States Commander Robert Hagner, Jr. buddy@rchagner.com

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://www.kov.org. Members of the Knights of the Vine receive a free subscription. Subscriptions by nonmembers are $20.00 per year. Layout and design by: Dario & Deborah Lorenzana, Santa Rosa, CA. Copyright ©2013 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED, The Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine, Inc.

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Table of Contents Chapters Orange County ........................................... 4 San Francisco/Chancellery .......................... 8 Austin ......................................................... 14 Southern Arizona ........................................ 15 Lake Tahoe................................................... 16 North Carolina ........................................... 19 Tennessee .................................................... 20 Gulf Coast .................................................. 24 Mississippi .................................................. 26 Monterey .................................................... 30 Lodi ............................................................ 32 Los Angeles.................................................. 34 Houston....................................................... 36 Nation’s Capital . ......................................... 40

Feature Articles Sweet Wines Have Been ‘In’ for 8,000 Years .... 12 by “Pooch” Pucilowski

The Art of Wine Making .................................. 22

by Dave Barber

FICB General Assembly at Musée du Vin ........ 28

by Pat Pingitore

Valle de Guadalupe ........................................... 38

From the

Commander’s Desk With this issue of the Arbor we welcome three new Master Commanders of Chapters in California. Pat Pingitore has been appointed as the new Commander of the San Francisco Chapter. Pat, Linda, and their children are very active in KOV. I know they’ll do a great job.

I asked Dick and Dawn Martella to take over Chancellery Chapter in Sacramento. Both Dick and Dawn have been very active in Knights of the Vine for many years. As a matter fact, Dick was the original Commander of this Chancellery chapter.

Recently Linda and I went to Los Angeles to assist in the elevation of James Berkeley as the new Commander of the Los Angeles Chapter. After 32 years of serving as the Commander, Neill felt it was time to “pass the sword” to James and sit back and relax as Commander Emeritus.

I wish all of these commanders, their families, and all the members of the three chapters best wishes as we grow and become stronger.

A special thank you to all the commanders who served before them.

by Ron Fenolio

In Every Issue Accessories .................................................. 42

per vitem! ad vitam!

Directory .................................................... 43

Cover Photo By: Carol Bade Winter/Spring 2013

Terrance K. McCleerey, Grand Commander

Orange County

Grand Some observers would say that one of the most cherished benefits of living on the coast of Southern California is the balmy year round weather. Others would insist it is the variety of world class restaurants and hotels. And still others would claim that the opportunity to mingle with a diverse group of the most innovative and creative minds would be its hallmark.

All Articles By Ron Latin

mented the superb 5 course culinary offerings from Mozambique’s legendary chef, Braulio Melo.

Master Commander, Tom McCrystal, officiated at the ceremonial enthronement of our new Knights and Gentle Ladies. Welcomed into this brotherhood of wine lovers were Ms. Pamela Adams, Mr. Stanley Kirst, Mr. Larry Sommers and Mr. Stephen Buckeley.. Each candidate was subjected to a rigorous test to determine their readiness to enthusiastically become a Knight or Gentle Lady. We are pleased to announce that each one passed the test with characteristic flair and diligence. And so our members grow in number as well learning the nuances of wine along with drinking and educating the palette, as we embark on the New Year 2013, we will be reminded that it was Martin Luther who declared that “beer is made by men, wine by God.

They would all be correct! The compelling evidence of this could be found at the Orange County’s Assemblage at the fabulous Mozambique Restaurant in Laguna Beach on October 27, 2012. Here the highly educated palates of the chapter’s Knights and Gentle Ladies were treated to a veritable bacchanal of wines paired expertly by our Master Commander Tom McCrystal, Bill Losee, Master of the Cellar with the expert assistance of Mr. John Meisse, Sommelier for Mozambique. All wines were from South Africa except for Grgich LtoR: Steve Bulkeley, Larry Summers, Com.Tom McCrystal, Stan Hills Cabernet from Kirsh,Vice. Com. Jon Greer and Pam Adams California. All compli-

Asse

Annual Planning Party Knights to be Stan Krist & Larry Summers

Jon Greer and Bill Lossee inducting Pam Adams

Tom McCrystal and Jon Greer with Knight to be Steve Bulkeley

emblage Susan & Larry Summers, Diane & Steve Bulkeley, Mary & John Greer and Shannon Moffatt

The dawn of the New Year 2013 was the optimum time for the Orange County Chapter to conduct its Annual Planning Party. Members were summoned from the far reaches of the county to come together to once again plan the year’s activities for this most active group of wine lovers.

The evening’s repast was catered by a team that we have come to regard as our very own and would be reluctant to reveal her name lest her services be in such demand that we would be compelled to engage another mere mortal provisioner. The wine, of course, was brought by our very learned and discriminating members and was so varied in vintage that virtually every attendee was immensely satisfied and eager to begin the arduous task of planning a year’s events that would accommodate the demanding schedules of our members.

Event favorites such as Rate the Reds, the San Juan Capistrano Mission Concert series, the up and coming winery-hosted tasting gala, the Academy Awards Night Celebration were quickly calendared for the 2013 year.

More ideas and vigorous discussion as other events were added to the year’s plan. Any disagreement about preferred dates was favorably reconciled, no doubt due to the scrumptious desserts to which we availed ourselves with characteristic gusto. As we left the home of host and Master Commander, Tom McCrystal and his lovely and gracious wife, Kris, we congratulated ourselves on our good fortune to be doing life together with this marvelous group of friends. We are reminded of Paul Tillich’s comment that “wine is like the incarnation, it is both human and divine.”

ORANGE COUNTY CHAPTER CONT’D ON NEXT PAGE...

ORANGE COUNTY CHAPTER CONT’D FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Christmas Time Wine Exchange December always brings excitement to the imagination as we consider the time to celebrate Christmas with loved ones. In Orange County, we Knights of the Vine eagerly anticipate this annual rendezvous. This year it was held at lovely home of Knight John and Diane Artim. Here… joy, peace and gratitude were in abundance as we gathered not only for delightful food and varied wine selections (as if there needed to be more incentive?!), but also for the wine exchange.

Christmas Party Hosts John & Dianne Artrim

There is careful jockeying for strategic position because when a member is fortunate to have unwrapped what turns out to be a highly desirable vintage, it is only a matter of a brief minute until the coveted bottle is possessed by another member who follows in the rotation.

This rather amusing version of the white elephant exchange continues as the sought after bottle is finally secured by its third member amid cries of jubilation from the fortunate owner and sighs of resignation issues from those who missed the opportunity. But not for long, for in our group, a member can always be secure that whatever bottle of wine is taken home, it is certain to be savored. And so we close out the year considering ourselves most blessed to have such camaraderie with dear Knights and Gentle Ladies!! “Per Vitem Ad Vitam” Carol Lloyd, Sue Grether, Kris McCrystal, Barbara Losee, Linda Loamis and Dianne Artim

The Knights & Gentle Ladies presented Kris & Tom McCrystal with a lovely thank you gift

The Gang’s all here for Christmas 2012 in the O.C.

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50 anniversary TH

INTERNATIONAL WORLD CONGRESS of WINE BROTHERHOODS What better way to celebrate a 50th anniversary than with Champagne!

As you may know, the FICB will be 50 years old in 2014. The local Brotherhood of Paris, le Conseil des Echansons de France, will be the host Brotherhood for a celebratory Congress, situated in Reims, France in the heart of Champagne country.

Details are preliminary but here’s an outline as we know it as of now.

Reims (Rheims to some) is approximately 150 kms east of Paris. There will be 2 hotels to choose from: Hotel de La Paix (4 Star) 1200-1400€/person double occ, 1350-1500€ single) Grand Hotel du Nord (2 Star) 950-1150€/person double occ. 1060-1200€ single) Both are centrally located and within walking distance of each other. The Hotel de La Paix will be the central meeting place.

Day 1 Thursday May 29; arrival and check in.

Day 2 Friday May 30; Breakfast at hotel, morning general assembly with theme being, what else, Champagne!

Lunch & Guided Walking Tour in Reims.

3:00 Free Time

6:00 Dinner (tbd) Day 3 Saturday May 31; Morning vineyard tour, followed by a reception at City Hall with lunch.

3:00 World Wine tasting at the historic and newly renovated Halles du Boulingrin (large market complex)

6:00 return to hotel, rest and prepare for dinner in one of Reim’s best Champagne Houses (tbd) Day 4 Sunday June 1 breakfast at hotel

Travel to Hautvillers (site of Dom Perignon Monastery) for mass and lunch

Return to hotel, rest

7:00 Gala dinner in a “tbd” Champagne house.

option to extend your stay There will be a specific email for info and questions. ficb2014@gmail.com Final program and pricing will be completed by September 2013.

Winter/Spring 2013

Extension: Same Hotels!! Price to be determined Day 1 & 2 Monday & Tuesday June 2 - 3 Cotes des Blancs, Epernay, Mensil-sur-Oger and the rest of the magnificent Champagne countryside.

france 2014

A Recipe for Party Success:

San Francisco

Pingitore Style Pat and Linda Pingitore from the San Francisco Chapter really know how to show Knights and Gentle Ladies a good time. Start with a selection of cheeses, mix in some antipasto, add a liberal supply of local red and white wines and top off with a fabulous view of the Napa Valley from their hilltop estate in Angwin and you have a super recipe for success. Pat and Linda invited new inductees, out of town cadre and guests, plus San Francisco and Chancellery members to a reception on the eve of their Assemblage of Harvest held at the Robert Mondavi Winery.

Pat & Linda Pingitore

Thank you

roland!

Top PHOTO Cheri Hick, Jim Kaye, Ruth Alexander and Glynis Kaye Below PHOTO Linda Bragaw, Scooter Blacklock, Buddy Hagner and Tom Bragaw

Unknown to us at the time, the San Francisco Fall 2012 Assemblage would be the last night that Roland Medel acted as Commander for the Chapter. Roland offered his resignation to Grand Commander, Terry McCleerey, at the end of that evening.

Roland had been acting as Commander of the San Francisco Chapter since the fall of 2008.

Prior to that, Roland served as a Provost General of the Western United States for the Brotherhood. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Roland for his many years of service and support of the Knights of the Vine. Enjoy your new role as Commander Emeritus!

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Steven Johnson, James Kaye, Andi & David Blacklock, Emmanuel Scrofani, Jean-Jacque Vitrac

Assemblage of Harvest

Article by Carol Bade Photos by Carol Bade & Kristen Dozier

The Napa Valley provided a picturesque venue for the Grand Assemblage of Harvest held jointly this year by the Chancellery and San Francisco Chapters of the Knights of the Vine at the prestigious Robert Mondavi Winery. A favorite location for a weekend getaway, the Valley was abuzz with activity as winery operators struggled to get the last of their grapes harvested, crushed and into a tank while good weather prevailed. This scenic Valley embodies the vision of our former member, Supreme Knight Robert Mondavi, which was to promote the Napa Valley as an international center for wine, food and art. Today his widow, our esteemed Supreme Lady of the Vine Margrit Biever Mondavi, continues that vision of a gracious lifestyle embracing wine, food and art, and arranged for our Brotherhood to hold its assemblage at the winery.

The ceremony was held in the beautiful “To Kalon� red wine making cellar with its 5,000 gallon Taransaud oak fermenters, in the background creating a fantastic ambiance for the enthronement of new members. The pag-

Mike Doukas and Terry McCleerey

SAn francisco & chancellery Chapters

Napa Valley Summer/Fall Winter/Spring2010 2013

SAN FRANCISCO

Mike Doukas, Pat Pingitore,Terry McCleerey and Warren Winiarski

eantry began with a procession of 21 visiting dignitaries and cadre members from around the country including three members of the Oregon Wine Brotherhood, Ken and Cheri Hick and Jim Alexander, who participated in our ceremony in their dress robes. Our Brotherhood’s National Officers and Chapter Cadre members attending included: Terrance McCleerey, Buddy Hagner, Don Bade, John Tudor, Pat Pingitore, Ken Haapala, Dave Barber, Carol Bade, Ernie Grossman, Margaret Lewicki, Peter Bosco, Suzanne Oppegard, Ron Light, John Kaminski, Linda Pingitore, Bruce Shelton, and Commanders Roland Medel and Mike Doukas.

The principal candidate for the ceremony was JeanJacque Vitrac, a winery owner and winemaker who was subjected to the ritualistic proofs of the water and wine as he represented all his fellow candidates with great dignity and aplomb. He was “dubbed” Master Knight of the Vine by Commander Mike Doukas. Also inducted into the Chancellery Chapter with the rank of Knight were

Trish & Buddy Hagner

10

Jean-Jacque Vitrac and “Pooch” Pucilowski

James Kaye and Stephen Johnson. S.F. Commander Roland Medel then knighted Dr. Andi Pingitore-Blacklock as a Gentle Lady of our Order followed by Dr. David “Scooter’ Blacklock and Mr. Emmanuel Scrofani to the rank of Knight of the Vine.

Mike Doukas announced that he was retiring after 30 years as Chancellery Commander and would be replaced

by Dick Martella who has been a member of the KOV since 1971. As a tribute to Mike’s years of service on both national and chapter levels, Grand Commander Terry McCleerey presented a special plaque to honor his commitment and loyalty to the Brotherhood.

Following the ceremony we adjourned to the event center where we enjoyed a reception with wine and hors d’oeuvres to honor our new members. A magnificent three-course dinner was prepared by Mondavi chef Jeff Mosher and his staff. A first course of butternut squash ravioli with spinach and toasted hazelnuts was accompa-

Carol Bade, Jim Alexander, Cheri and Ken Hick

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Mike Doukas, Giselle McKellar and Bruce Shelton

In keeping with the Mondavi theme of embracing wine, food and the arts, the Eloquence String Trio – whose members belong to the Napa Symphony Orchestra – entertained us with music for our dining and dancing pleasure. All in all it was a world-class experience for our wine Brotherhood, a fitting sendoff for Commander Mike Doukas, and certainly an evening to be treasured by our newly enthroned Knights and Gentle Lady.

Dave Barber and Linda Pingitore

Winter/Spring 2013

Peter Bosco and Ken Haapala

CHANCELLERY

nied by a 2010 Robert Mondavi Napa Valley Chardonnay Reserve. Our entrée was a creative preparation of pan seared Niman Ranch Rib Eye with goat cheese potato gratin, wild mushrooms, rainbow chard and grilled red onion bordelaise. This was paired with the Mondavi 2009 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve. An imaginative combination of apple and gingerbread cake with house-made applesauce and cinnamon ice cream was served for dessert which matched perfectly with the 2011 Robert Mondavi Napa Valley Moscato d’Oro.

Don Bade, Ken & Cheri Hick and John Tudor

Kaminski JohnJohn Kaminski andand RonRon LightLight

Commanders Roland Medel and Mike Doukas

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Sweet Wines Have Been “In” for 8,000 Years Let’s learn to mind our mouth when telling our friends and family that they shouldn’t really like sweet wines but to drink the drier reds instead — History is against us!

By now you have all heard of the “craze” for Moscato style wines — light, slightly sweet, soft, low alcohol and oh so easy to drink. The largest growth of any grape varietal for the last 3-4 years.

And even though this craze may seem new — the theme itself is extremely old — sweet wines sell! Always have, always will. The problem seems to be with “knowledgeable” wine drinkers who insist on telling everyone that red wine is the only wine one should drink.

And they keep repeating this crap until the trend is beaten to a pulp and the sweet category just dies out.

must be a dry red wine? Does this mean sweet wine is dead to be replaced by dry red? I don’t think so.

Back in 1933, when Prohibition (The Great Experiment) ended, the most sought after wines were the sweet, fortified wines that were just about the only wine available to drink. For the next 30-40 years, California/America had a very, very poor reputation as a wine growing country. Prohibition had squelched the taste of wine in America. No one really took wine seriously as a drink let alone as a place to grow good wines — and chances were, if they were drinking wines they were probably on the sweet side.

Even though this

craze may seem new

— the theme itself is

That is not to say there weren’t a few California winery pioneers attempting to make good dry wines. But it really took the Judgement in Paris in 1976 that finally put California on the wine map. And interestingly, even though both Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon took the spotlight, I believe this is where Cabernet sort of really went gangbusters.

I believe this is where the start of “all wines would be red, if they could” mentality began. I think this is where American wine drinkers, without any history of wine drinking, got it into their heads that wine had to be red to be good — and if the wine was sweet, it was bad.

extremely old —

For at least 8,000 years, man has made wine. And for the past 7,950 of those years, the most prized, the most valuable, the most sought after wine has been — sweet. Think about it. It has only been in the last 40-50 years or so here in America that somehow, dry red wine has been deemed the “best wine in the world” and the ONLY wine that anyone with sophistication should drink. And those who proclaim this “truth” will excuse anyone who would drink anything sweet as someone who should be placed in a corner of the room until “their taste buds mature.” Because, after all, red is the best! Where has this snobbishness come from? Where was it decreed that the only good wine

sweet wines sell!

12

When I first got into the wine business around 1972 and started selling wines (and believe me, I didn’t know

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a damn thing about wine or what I was selling). I do remember however, what was “hot” and selling. I remember what wines consumers were buying.

Here is a listing of the wines I distinctly remember selling in retail stores and then putting these wines on wine lists for restaurants, well into the 80’s. I’ve also added a little descriptor of each type of wine for those of you that may be too young to know or to old to remember. (I place myself in this latter group):

goes another wine drinker while the wine industry waits for their taste buds to mature . . .

The point I believe, that should be stressed is “we are all, truly, different.” That as humans we all have different tastes. We all enjoy different foods and drinks.

We, who enjoy wines, need to stop beating up on other people declaring we know best! Because we don’t. We only know what is best for us — not for others!

Cold Duck (American sweet red sparkling wine), as well as Lancers and Mateus (Portuguese, lightly carbonated, sweet wines). From Germany there was Blue Nun & Liebfraumilch (sweet white wines) and Italy had it’s sweet Asti Spumante (sparkling white wine). Spain had a sweet red wine made with various fruits called Sangria and California sold Chateau La Salle (a sweet white wine from Christian Brothers). In those days, fast coming on the scene was Charles Krug Chenin Blanc, Wente Bros Le Blanc de Blanc and Grey Riesling and Weibel Green Hungarian. Sweet Rosé style wines were hot till they got killed off by the wine snobs of the land who use to say, “yes, it’s a nice wine to start with, but soon you will want to be drinking red wines, which are real wines.”

During the 80’s, into the 90’s, White Zinfandel and Wine Coolers were the “leaders” and people lined up to buy these new “tasty” wines. Until they were beat down, again, by uninformed wine drinkers who just “knew” this wasn’t real wine. So now we are on a new trend with Moscato and Sweet Red wines, lead by the under 30 year olds.

Do you see where we are going — again? It seems every time a new group of wine lovers start drinking sweeter, softer wines. Up rises the know-it-alls of wine to tell them how wrong they are and how the only “real” wines are red. Unfortunately, these sweet wine drinkers don’t switch to reds, they just stop drinking wine because they are embarrassed to admit they like these type of wines. The liquor industry of course, has no such hangups. They welcome and encourage people to drink their concocted sweet fufu drinks — and there

By G.M. “Pooch” Pucilowski G.M. “Pooch” Pucilowski is a Wine Educator and Consultant.

He has been the Chief Judge of the California State Fair Commercial Wine Competition for the past 26 years, as well as the popular competition called the Consumer Wine Awards and continues to teach his wine classes. He thoroughly believes that you, the consumer, are the best judge to determine the quality of any wine—he simply gives you the tools. Questions?

Call 916-961-6150 gmpooch@pacbell.net www.UniversityofWine.com

Winter/Spring 2013

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Austin

Eddie Safady, Ann Butler and Harvey Kronberg

Summer Soiree On August 15, 2012, 100 members of the Austin chapter gathered at the home of former Austin Mayor Roy and Ann Butler located in the historic Old Enfield neighborhood.

By: Megan Dugan

Claire & Richard Lotspeich

Members enjoyed delicious, cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Terry Nowell of Culinary Architecture.

Guests sipped flights of 2009 Brewer-Clifton Santa Rita Hills Chardonnay, 2009 Walter Hansel Chardonnay Cuvee Alyce, 2007 Robert Craig Affinity, 2007 Cade Napa Cuvee, 2009 Fall Creek Vineyards Tempranillo “Salt Lick Vineyards�

TX Hill Country, 2008 Wolf Family Vineyards Phaedrus Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley.

It was a perfect evening of food, wine and people.

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Southern Arizona Remembers Our Dear Friend, Master Knight,

Rick Ervin

Rick, an accomplished architect, photographer, computer and software specialist and wine aficionado complimented any gathering. Usually the first question regarding an event was “are Rick and Nancy attending?”

Rick’s sense of humor was always welcome. Whether it be an amusing photo, story or practical joke (yours truly was the recipient more than once) you often spoke about the enjoyment Rick’s presence brought to the events Each year Rick and Nancy attended our Annual Chuckwagon Barbeque at the Poco Toro Ranch in the San Rafael Valley, South of Patagonia, Arizona. Rick and Nancy loved going to the six hundred acre ranch where we sat by the fire and told tall stories, sampled superb meals and wine with our hosts Margie Buyer and Charlie Davis. . Getting Rick and Charlie together was a joy as these two gentlemen graced us with their presence. Thank goodness we have many photos of the twelve years of barbeques.

We had so many photos, in fact, Rick and I put together a hard cover book of all of our Knights of the Vine events

Summer/Fall 2011

at the ranch and presented it to Charlie and Margie as a thank you for all they have done to accommodate us over the years, making us feel like family in a setting like none other in Arizona.

That was Rick, always going the extra mile to cheer someone up, help with a computer issue or recommend a wine or champagne we all must sample. Rick was always anxious to pass along a tip about the next best wine to make an appearance on the scene.

The last event at Nancy and Rick’s home was another exceptional affair where Nancy and her best friend, Gentle Lady Georgiann Jensen, prepared so many courses and served so many Lodi wines hand selected for each course…well if you left hungry, it was your own fault.

In the midst of all this hard work putting this grand event was Rick sequestered at the table keeping us all in stitches and staying out of the way.

While the loss of our dear colleague still saddens us, it does bring smiles to each and every one who was blessed to have had the privilege and honor to call Rick a friend and to have spent time with him. In all my extensive travels, I have never been so pleased and honored to have so many special memories of such a wonderful human being.

By Steve Kornman, Chapter Vice Commander 15

Southern Arizona

Just before Christmas, we lost our dear friend Mr. Richard Ervin, husband of Nancy Minor. Rick or “Ricco” as those close to him new him as, was truly an irreplaceable individual, always bringing laughter, happiness and enjoyment to every Knights of the Vine occasion.

lake

By Margaret Lewicki & Ernie Grossman

LAKE TAHOE has been here for some two million years. Formed by the upheaval of time and carved by an ice age the daily evaporation of its waters would service the entire city of Los Angeles. Seventy two miles around its twenty two mile by twelve mile interior one could visit nearly twenty ski hills, dozens of marinas, casinos, hiking trails, campgrounds, outdoor amphitheatres, and above all, the serenity of another world. Culturally there is free and affordable music every night from the classics of the major symphonies to the most modern of sounds. Our own Lake Tahoe Music Festival sums up the mood with its tag line “From Bach to Blues and Beyond”. There is an active colony of the finest artists and sculptors and, yes, there is even a terrific winery in Truckee. The folks who are a part of our Tahoe Region Brotherhood are an eclectic group participating in all aspects of community life.

© Sacramento Bee

But they like to have fun. While we have a full measure of activities within our own idyllic setting when opportunities arise to expand their horizons they are fully with the program. In the year 2012, large numbers of our members went to the Conference of Delegates in Monterey, the FICB Congress in Serbia, an almost week long trip to discover the beauties of the Rogue River Valley, Oregon, and for an overnighter to Sacramento to explore the wonders of the Crocker Art Museum and the extraordinary dining experience of the amazing Enotria Restaurant and Winebar.

The participants of the Rogue Valley, Oregon adventure in front of the Red Lily Winery icon

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White Water!! The Alexanders and the Axelrods rafting on the Rogue River, Oregon

The headquarter hotel for our Oregon adventure was the Springhill Suites in Medford. Joined by Jim and Ruth Alexander of the Oregon Wine Brotherhood we assembled in the party room for a wine and catered appetizer supper to get reacquainted.

The next morning, following a private tour of the Harry and David plant, we were picked up by shuttle for a day’s activities of wine tasting, lunch in the quaint village of Jacksonville, touring and more wine tasting. The day was capped off with dinner at the Loft Restaurant and the amazing Shakespeare Festival presentation of “Animal Crackers” in Ashland. Day three we car pooled to Del Rio Winery to be chauffeured to the embarkation point of the Rogue River for a relatively tame white water rafting trip. WHAT AN ADVENTURE! Brought back for a catered picnic to Del Rio we were treated with some exceptional complementary wines. We were so impressed with the quality that Del Rio sold us enough wine (at a good discount) to furnish our own wine bar. Following an afternoon of free time to explore we concluded the day at the indescribable Eden Vale Winery for an exclusive four course feast with freely poured wines, even from their Library

Winter/Spring 2013

stock. And as an extra treat we were escorted at dusk to the main house to watch the ritual of the swallows flying into their chimney roost.

The Crocker Art Museum is a major cultural force in Sacramento propelled there in no small part by our own Gentle Lady Ede and Knight Steve Brandenburger. They arranged for our entry and Ede personally gave us an escorted tour for the opening of the Norman Rockwell exhibit. History, nostalgia, amazement. This is an institution worthy of our support.

We followed this expedition with a true culinary adventure; Enotria Restaurant and Winebar of Sacramento, lauded by every food and wine publication in Northern California. Masters of the Manor, Gentle Lady Jan and Knight Dave Hardie arranged for us to be treated regally at this soon to be, must be, Michelin starred restaurant. We were served choices of the most unusual and most marvelously prepared creations Executive Chef Pajo Bruich could create.

And wine director Matthew Lewis’s selections from the cellar were all that we could have anticipated. Reservations are a must.

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tahoe Assemblage 2012

Carolyn Mendez, Dr. Elissa Slanger and Rodger Agre taking a KOV oath

Holiday Party

“The Test of the Nose” endured by Jim Leidigh and Peggy Siminich

Stan Oppegard, Ray and Judy Henry, and Suzanne Oppegard at the Holiday Party

Mike Dittmore and Veronica Kaufman inducted

by Master Commander Ernie Grossman

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Rodrigo Sales and Paul O’Hara enjoying the pre-induction roast

Katie Johnson, Frances Tomasko, Barbara Ansel, Bea Axelrod and Loretta Baughman enjoying the delicious Holiday PartyThe repast Arbor

The Opportunities & Challenges of a Whole State KOV Chapter

by Ron Newcomb

In 2012 and 2013, the thrust of our activity has been to hold events in these key areas with the goal of making wine enthusiasts aware of the KOV and communicating our purpose and vision. In August, the Chapter held a meet and greet at the Cliffs at Walnut Cove near Asheville. In September, a food pairing and wine tasting event with Wines for Humanity was held near Chapel Hill at the home of the Chapter’s Master Commander, Ron and Patrice Newcomb.

Also that month, KOV members gathered at the Angus Barn Restaurant in Raleigh for a trip through time, attending their History of Wine wine dinner led

by The Barn’s widely regarded sommelier, Henk Schuitemaker. In October, KOV members attended the Oyster and Rib Festival held at Duplin Winery. NC KOV members attended the Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival in Virginia in November and have also been spotted at numerous wine tastings and other wine events throughout the State and in surrounding states.

Over the past twelve years, the NC KOV has held our Grand Assemblage in different parts of the state to allow each area to have its moment to shine. Our upcoming Tom Potter at the Oyster and May 3-5, 2013 Grand As- Rib Festival near Wilmington semblage will be held at the opulent Graylyn Estate in Winston-Salem; gateway to the Yadkin Valley. We invite KOV members from across the country to join us for a “knightly” occasion.

The challenge to North Carolina’s KOV Chapter is to hold events and maintain membership in all these areas.

So much wine, so little time! The huge opportunity; however, is the occasions it offers to visit the plethora of scenic and historic sites available to us.

Henk Schuitemaker speaking at Angus Barn Wine Dinner Wine for Humanity Tasting

Members enjoying the Angus Barn Wine Dinner Winter/Spring 2013

19

North Carolina

North Carolina is blessed with numerous diverse and beautiful rural and urban areas. The western part of the State is home to the Blue Ridge Mountains, with such popular destination sites as Asheville, Boone and Blowing Rock. The Piedmont region of the State contains Winston-Salem, Greensboro and High Point (furniture capital of the country) and is also home to the Yadkin Valley Appellation, North Carolina’s first and most widely renowned designated AVA (American Viticultural Area) and home to 45 of the state’s 110 wineries.

Charlotte is a major banking and business services area.

The Research Triangle Park is the technical and business center of the State and is also the geographic center of the State, comprising the Raleigh (the State Capitol), Durham and Chapel Hill areas. The eastern part of the state is home to the Outer Banks, Wilmington and several popular beach communities.

Dean Wingo, Robert Meyers, Tom Webb, Bob Bennett, and Susan Edmonds and Mike Fink

Tennessee Tennessee chapter members celebrated the arrival of fall with an Oktoberfest dinner at the home of Master of Ceremonies Mike Fink and his wife, Judy. A delicious German dinner was prepared and served by their son, Michael, a culinary school trained chef, and his wife, Melanie. As members and guests arrived, they were treated to a variety of old world cheeses, fruits and bratwurst brochette. Master of the Cup Dean Wingo provided our wine education with a blind tasting of three reds. We had to guess the country or region and the grape. Tucker Larkin was declared the winner as he correctly guessed all three wines—an Italian Sangiovese, an Argentine Malbec, and a California Zinfandel. Members brought wines to pair with the delicious pork rouladen, served with braised red cabbage and apples. The molasses ginger cake was the grand finale—a delicious way to end a delightful evening. Who needed beer??

By Beth Webb

jeroboam tasting Beth Webb, Peggy Larkin, Jerry Edmonds

November was the perfect time for members and guests to uncork a signed 1997 Vincent Arroyo Napa Valley Petite Sirah Jeroboam, hosted by Master of the Cork, Robert Jeroboam tasting (LtoR) Robert and Debbie Meyers and Tom Webb

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Meyers, and his wife Debbie. Following the ceremonial uncorking, decanting and tasting of the jeroboam, members enjoyed an array of wines and dishes. Robert provided the wine education of the evening by discussing each of the wines that members had brought.

Our annual Assemblage, The Feast of St. Vincent, was held in January at Flight Restaurant in the historic Brodnax Jewelry building in downtown Memphis.

The basement, now a private dining room, still contains the huge original jewelry safe, definitely a conversation piece. Our two inductees, Will and Pat Crouch from Alabama, were unable to attend and will be inducted at a future event. Master of Hospitality Susan Edmonds planned an exquisite evening of food and wine, complete with beautiful table décor. Even without an enthronement, Master Commander Tom Webb and the Cadre provided plenty of ceremony while members en-

Holly & Walter Elkins

Timeline joyed Roederer Estate Brut Anderson Valley with passed hors d’oeuvres. The first of the restaurant’s signature flights, Chesapeake Bay crab cakes, lobster bisque, and tempura vegetables, was served with a 2009 Dry Creek Treasure Hunter Chardonnay, followed by the “From the Sea” course of Alaskan white bass, paired with a 2010 Russian River Valley Girard Chardonnay. The “From the Land” flight was the highlight of the evening—Roasted Muscovy duck breast, veal scallopine, and New Zealand lamb chop, accompanied by a flight of wines—2007 Sebastiani Merlot, 2010 Conundrum Red Blend, and 2010 Catena Malbec. The decadent dessert of chocolate pots de crème was accompanied by Sandeman Port, the perfect finish for a cold winter night.

Mike & Judy Fink

Peggy & Tucker Larkin Steve & Teresa Owens

Octoberfest; (Group Shot) Heidi and Eric Dawson, Carol & Phillip Langsdon, Lauran & Dean Wingo (Next Photo) Bob & Gayle Bennett Susan & Jerry Edmonds

Winter/Spring 2013

THE ART Of

Like many of us, I belong to a few other wine organizations besides the KOV. As such, I recently attended the National Conference of the American Wine Society in Portland, Oregon. Being in the heart of ‘Pinot land’, Pinot Noir was a featured grape in many of our educational sessions throughout the Conference.

One particularly interesting session was exclusively for the wine judge graduates of the Society. This program was arranged and presented by Walt Rachele (also Master Heralder in the Nation’s Capital KOV chapter) and his gentle lady Pat Valas. While visiting Oregon and exploring Pinot Noir over the last few years, Walt and Pat discovered a fascinating study of the grape and knew that this would be an excellent Continuing Education Session.

Winemakers everywhere usually aren’t each other’s competitors; rather, many develop deep friendships and actually become mentors to one another. One such group evolved in Oregon. Often gathering in each other’s cellars to offer frank opinions and suggestions about the wines being tasted, a question evolved: why don’t each of us make wine from the same grapes and compare the results?

In 2006, five winemakers from five wineries, each selected grapes from their respective vineyard blocks and shared them with each other. Each winemaker made a wine from each of the five vineyard lots. Thus, the Cellar Crawl became a reality.

Laurent Montalieu, winemaker at Soléna Cellars selected grapes from his WillaKia Vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. Owner/winemaker Ken Wright selected grapes from his Abbott Claim Vineyard from Ken Wright Cellars in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA. The Lia Vineyard was the source of the grapes selected by Lynn Penner-Ash of Penner-Ash Wine Cellars in the Chehalem Mountain AVA, while Ben Casteel, winemaker at Bethel Heights Vineyard, selected grapes from their Southeast Block in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. And finally, Steve Doerner, winemaker at Cristom Vineyards, sourced his grapes from the Eileen Vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. Between September 27 and October 4, 2006, the grapes were harvested from each of the five vineyards, swapped among the five winemakers, who in turn began fermenting five different batches of wine, each in their own styles. Some used varying times for cold soaking the fruit before using different percentages of whole cluster fermentation. Two winemakers used native yeasts while the other three each used different commercial yeasts for inoculation. Varying combinations of new oak were selected, but all the wines were eventually bottled between late January 2008 and early April 2008. Thus emerged wines made by five different winemakers, each using the same different five sources of grapes.

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Now, the proof was in the tasting. Since pouring all twenty-five wines simultaneously would be somewhat unwieldy and a logistics challenge, we sampled the wine in flights of five. First poured were the five wines sourced from the Abbott Claim vineyard, made by each of the five winemakers. After taking tasting notes on each wine, the five wines sourced from the Lia vineyard were poured. The following flights were from the WillaKia vineyard, followed by the Southeast Block, and concluding with the Eileen Block.

After tasting all twenty-five wines, it was quite interesting to review the results of our tasting notes. Yes, we were able to discern similarities going across the matrix comparing the wines sourced from the same vineyard but made by different winemakers. Each, however, had a slightly different twist on the resulting wines. And then, comparing each of the five wines going down the matrix which were made by the same winemaker but from different vineyards, there generally was a slight style similarity that could be found in each of the winemaker’s offerings, providing his/her own signature twist to the respective wines.

For more information about the American Wine Society, visit americanwinesociety.org.

You may find a chapter near you that you may want to join.

Which was the best wine? Well, that depends upon your own personal preferences. But this exercise definitely illustrated the fine art of winemaking – allow different winemakers to make wine from the same grapes, and you’ll get different wines.

WINE MAKING By

David Barber

Master Cup Bearer, Nation’s Capital Chapter

Winter/Spring 2013

23

Gulf Coast

VintageAssemblage

By Lucy Strickland

2012 found the Gulf Coast Chapter starting slower than previously, but we did manage to get some people to attend a German wine tasting at the Deutsches Haus in New Orleans in early March. One of our members, Rose Mancini, who lives in New Orleans and works at the Haus, set this up for us.

Unfortunately, later in March we lost one of our Charter members. James Shultz passed away from an unexpected heart attack. Morris and I and Chris and Lisa Crouse attended his memorial service in Orange Beach, AL. Following that, in August we had an Italian wine tasting at the Strickland’s with about 14 to 15 people in attendance. Morris had picked some really tasty wines for that event, and everyone had a great time with them.

The next really big event was our Assemblage, which took place for the second year in a row at Vintage Station’s West Wing, in Gulfport. Thanks to the hard work and “politicking” by John Boothby, as well as some of the rest of us, we inducted eight new people into our Chapter! This was quite a change from the two or three members that we had added for the past few years.

Among those new members were Cheri Cooley-Hick and Ken Hick from the Oregon Wine Brotherhood! We are truly happy to have them join our Chapter. Morris and I plan to attend their Assemblage in March.

menu consisted of a chef ’s selection of fine cheeses, crostinis, canapés and bruschettas accompanied by Candoni Prosecco Brut for starters. The first course was a vanilla bean and melon gazpacho with Pighin Pinot Grigio. Our second course consisted of beet and orange salad w/ goat cheese and sweet cilantro vinaigrette, which was paired with Estancia Pinot Noir. The main course was petite Pittsburgh fillet over a merliton and new potato hash w/ a peppercorn and blue beurre blanc shrimp tchoupitoulas with caramelized leeks and apple, accompanied by Simi Cabernet Sauvignon. The dessert was a to-die-for Duet of Raspberry truffle and a raspberry Sacher torte, which went well with Sandeman Sherry.

The night before the Assemblage we had our usual cocktail party at our house for the Cadre and out of town guests. Members brought favorite bottles of wine to go with the hors d’oeuvres that I had prepared, and we just enjoyed getting together, with the rest of our members getting to meet the Hicks.

This Assemblage was a terrific affair with Calvin Coleman from Naomi’s catering for us again this year. The New members signing the Golden Book

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John & Adrienne Boothby

More Gulf Gatherings

In December, we had a great turnout for our annual Christmas party.

It was originally being co-hosted by the Trueloves and the Clarksons, and was to be held at the Clarkson’s home, which is two doors down from the Trueloves. However, Jim Clarkson’s Mother passed away so everything got moved down to the Truelove’s, which was convenient for everyone attending. Members brought canned goods and staples to donate to “The Lord is my Help”, a soup kitchen located in Ocean Springs. Everyone had a great time there before moving on to other parties they were invited to.

That finished out the year for us, but in January of this year, Thomas Sherman, one of our new members, who is state manager for Republic national Distributing Company, hosted a wine tasting for us at the home of Mark Carroll, also a new member. He had Leonard George, VP for controlled states marLeonard George, VP for Republic keting and two other representatives there to National serve several wines and explain about them.

Distributing The wines presented for our pleasure were: Domaine Ste. Michelle Blanc de Blanc, which is 100% Chardonnay; St. Francis Chardonnay 2009, which is medium-bodied; Benziger Chardonnay 2008, which was aged for 8 months and was delicious.

Suzy Moss, Jeanne & Doug Cosentino

Next, we went to the reds, starting with St. Francis Red Splash 2007, which is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Zinfandel and Petite Syrah; followed by Benziger Merlot 2008, which was deep and rich; and lastly was Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, with plum and blackberry aromas. Yum! Several of the gentle ladies provided hors d’oeuvres to accompany all these wonderful wines, and it was a truly enjoyable evening. Thanks, Thomas and Mark.

Lynn & Terry Truelove flank Charles & Julie Hunger as they enjoy cocktails at Strickland’s

Lynn Truelove, Joff Clarke, Morris Strickland

Thomas Sherman, John Boothby, Mark Carroll, host for tasting

Arlene Wahl raises a glass with Suzy & Rich Moss

Winter/Spring 2013

25

Fall Fun,

ChristmasMagnolia CheerState

O

in the

Mississippi

October 20th found about 30 Knights Gentle Ladies, and guests in Madison, Mississippi, on Belle Point Drive overlooking Lake Caroline.

Hosts Gentle Lady Wanda Garner and Larry Butts greeted guests with a glass of Sparkling Wine and welcomed them to her lovely home for a Fun Fall evening. Members brought a bottle or two if their favorite wines to share.

Kenny Windham, Vice commander, welcomed everyone and sent Commander Norman Harris best wishes for a speedy recovery from the group. Kenny asked Tom Storey to discuss some of the wines brought and make suggestions for pairing. Those discussed were the Belle Glos Clarke and Telephone Vineyard Pinot Noir 2011, Chateau Julien Reserve Chardonnay Sur Lie, Calera Chardonnay from Mont Harlan, Domaine Serene Evanstad Pinot Noir from Willamette as well as a fine Zinfadel from Ridge Lyton Springs, 2009 and a 2007 Robert Foley Merlot.

by Sherry Storey

To compliment the wines Catering by Georges included smoked sausage, new potatoes wrapped in bacon, silver dollar rolls for smoked beef brisket. Fruit trays, dips with crackers, and assorted cheeses were offered along with strawberries in chocolate sauce and Oreo Chocolate Drops. A special treat of Caramel Cake and 1983 Y d’ Yquem Sauternes, First Growth, was brought by guest Richard Rehfeldt and I can assure you was enjoyed by all.

Vice Commander Windham reminded all members the Christmas party would be December 1, and encouraged all to drive safely home.

The Mississippi Chapter chose December 1, 2012 for their annual Christmas party held this year at Rossini’s Italian Restaurant in Ridgeland, MS. For a great start, guests were greeted with the Uvaggio 2010 Moscato Secco and tiny crab cakes as well as Uvaggio 2009 Barbera with Fried Beef Ravioli. Dipping sauce was offered but not needed for the tasty Ravioli.

Good to see Norman & Mim Harris looking fit and having fun

The Guys: Nicky Drake,Tom Storey and Kenny Windham sharing a toast

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Once seated, a Christmas Salad of mixed greens, green olives with Cranberry Vinaigrette arrived. For the fish course, Pan Seared Grouper, Asparagus, and Rice Pilaf were served with the Uvaggio 2010 Vermentino. Wine Enthussiast rated this wine as the 11th wine of 2012 and a Best Buy. A Beef Filet, Italian green beans and twice baked potato was enhanced with the Uvaggio 2010 Primitive. The dinner concluded with Dates stuffed with Gorgonzola Cheese and Tiramisu along with the Uvaggio 2010 Moscato Dolce.

As the evening was on the wane, Commander Norman Harris presented members with wine glasses beautifully engraved with KOV. Names were drawn for an assortment of prizes.

Larry Butts,Tom Storey, Richard & Kim Rehfeldt

As the group began to make their way home, many Merry Christmas and Happy New Year greetings could be heard.

The lucky prize winners at Mississippi’s Annual Christmas Party

The Gals: Sherry Storey, Diane Drake and Trish Windahm

Karen & Cecil Harper with Susan & T. Jerry Ruffin

Our Hosts Wanda Garner and Larry Butts

Winter/Spring 2013

27

FICB General Assembly

at

MusEe Du Vin

In my role as International Emissary of the KOV, and having been appointed to the Board of the FICB, I attended the Board, Council and General Assembly meetings of the FICB, held in Paris at the Musee du Vin, January 25-26, 2013.

Essentially a Board of 12 members meets prior to the Council (an additional 16 members) all of whom try to come to a consensus for a presentation to the General Assembly held the following day, open to all active members of the FICB. There is one vote per active Brotherhood. This year, Nancy and Brad Miller of the Oregon Wine Brotherhood attended their first meeting.

What follows is a summary of the important decisions taken this year.

The proceedings always begin (after appropriate acceptance of the minutes of the previous year as well as acceptance of the agenda presented) with a general “state of the Union” address by Claude Josse the president. He described the reduced dues paid by previously active members and hoped that the actions taken at this meeting would “right the ship”. He provided a spirited vision for what could be, with appropriate support and work from additional individuals.

Brotherhood in the past month for comment). Anyone desiring a copy can email me at prpingitore@gmail.com Important facets include a definition of the Mission of the FICB, establishing the headquarters as Paris, defining the membership as Active, Associate or Sponsoring, defining rules of admission and demission, identifying the potential resources of the FICB, the structure of the Board, Council and Assembly and the limits of liability therein. The rules and Regulations of course detailed the procedures by which these Bylaw Articles could be implemented.

All of this work was lead by Alan Bryden, a member of the local Brotherhood who was hand picked by Claude to perform this task as well as the revamping of the FICB Website, all within the past year.

His work was approved unanimously with minor changes. The final version will be sent to all for a formal vote within the next 30 days and will be implemented as soon as possible.

First major order of business was acceptance of the New Bylaws and Rules and Regulations of the FICB (which had been distributed to all in draft form - bilingual!)

6 months previous and had been amended at this year’s Board and Assembly. The draft had been also forwarded by myself to all KOV Council Members and OW-

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As mentioned above, the new FICB website is now live and can be viewed at www.winebrotherhood.com or by simply googling FICB.com. Please visit the website and see how it now defines the active members (those who pay their annual 150E/year dues) by directly linking to their own websites, as well as describing as much information we want to place on that page. The site is in its infancy but will be expanded with time and will be an important resource for all of us as we wish to learn more about the FICB, Congress 2014 (more later!) etc.

The Assembly also approved a budget for 2013 after reviewing the 2012 balance sheet. The FICB operated at a deficit of 3160.69E in 2012 (largely due to 2000E less dues collected and 3884.23E spent on the website development. Dues were not increased for Active Members and once the Bylaws are accepted, dues for Associate and Sponsoring Members will be established by the Board.

Also approved was a new recognition certificate for both new members and retiring individuals who have made significant contributions to the FICB. Claude specifically singled out Mike Doukas as an example of an individual who would merit such a certificate!

An important final recommendation approved by the General Assembly was the appointment of Alan Bryden, which many of you have met at last year’s Serbian Congress, as the new Premier VP of the Board, creating a succession plan for Claude Josse should he decide to step down. This is a very progressive move

Winter/Spring 2013

which I applaud with great vigor!! Alan speaks many languages, has extensive organizational experience and a great guy to boot!

And, oh yes....the Assembly voted the 2014 FICB Congress to be held in Reims, in the heart of Champagne Country, May 29- June 3, 2014! - more in a separate article. As always, there was a request for suggestions for 2016 and the U.S. was in high demand by all especially those from France, Slovenia and Hungary. I promised we would explore the possibility of a Congress centered in Sonoma, where we would be meeting this coming May and would report back at the next meeting.

All in all, a very busy and productive weekend. As always, there was plenty of good food and wine shared and the weekend was closed by an Assemblage of the local Conseil des Echansons de France, who invited the Jurade de Saint Emilion (another brotherhood) to show their Bordeaux wines!

By Pat Pingitore, International Emissary

29

A Gatsby

by Rich Hughett

Monterey

On Saturday, November 10, 2012, the KOV Monterey Peninsula Chapter presented “A Gatsby Night,” a themed gala to celebrate their 2012 Grand Assemblage. This very special evening was held at the Corral de Tierra Country Club in the Toro area of Monterey County.

The Monterey Chapter was delighted to induct Luis Urroz, Alan Richmond, Nick Carter, Todd Tempalski, Peter Tansill, Paul Johnson and Scott Blazer into our Brotherhood as the rank of Knight.

We were equally pleased to induct Carol Grant, Carol Richmond, Ruth Thompson, Shellee Perkins, Karen Worthington and Stacey Montoya into the order as Gentle Ladies. Another one of the night’s highlights was the elevation of Stephanie Lee and James Pickworth to serve in the Cadre of the Monterey Chapter.

Members new and old, enjoyed excellent seasonal appetizers and a four course gourmet dinner complimented by five expertly-selected paring vintages. After dinner, everyone danced into the night to the music of Mike Marotta Jr. and his band.

Assemblage Committee Co-Chairs Greg and Shirley Gorman called the affair an “unqualified success,” and thanked the many who participated in its production. It was definitely a wonderful culmination of a year of many noteworthy events presented by the Monterey Chapter.

TOP OF PAGE: Bridget Burns Dutt, Karen Worthington, Shellee Perkins and Laura Alladeen RIGHT: Gina Griffin and Reggie Hammond aka Bacchus BELOW LEFT: Bob Bussinger and Wendy Brodie BELOW CENTER: Jack & Dawn Gallante BELOW RIGHT: Dan & Susan Canalas

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Gala ABOVE: Scott Schied, Jack Gallante read aloud to the masked principle candidate James Pickworth LEFT: Linda & Terry McCleerey

Commanders Reception in Carmel Wafting through the crisp Carmel evening, up the winding driveway to the valet parking station, the luxurious smell of fresh baking dough with hints of basil and fresh tomato, welcomed the guests and promised an evening of great gastronomic adventure. Inside the congenial kitchen of Linda and Terrance McCleerey’s wood and glass architectural knock-out custom built home, the friendly expert staff of Michael Jones, a Moveable Feast, created the tasty ambiance for the Commander’s Reception, Monterey Chapter.

A packed house of over 80 eager members of the Chapter enjoyed Hudson Valley fois gras with hibiscus reduction, Dungeness crab cakes and curried chicken complementing the expansive flavors in the rich Cabernet. The back roads of Monterey County delivered the spiced-just-right sausage from Corralitos and Jones smoked a Monterey Bay salmon for the evening. Chesapeake oysters with a beet infused mignonette were a lovely compliment to a crisp Chardonnay! There was a taste for every palate, and a wine for each connoisseur.

The fire kept Wendy Brodie’s broken toe toasty as many took turns keeping warm and enjoying the home filled with Carmel stone, intricately laced burl wood flooring and metal work on a railing fit for a museum. Yet we

Winter/Spring 2013

by Carol Richmond

were not there for the architectural wonders, we were there to celebrate great wine and food, good friends and the common love of all. There were introductions of new members, recognition of wines donated, Big Sur sea bass ceviche and gracious hosts, Linda and Terry, kept the glasses from reaching empty levels. A tempting glimpse of the French Connection slated for May 2014 had everyone checking their I phone calendars!

Jack and Dawn Galante, new to our Peninsula from the Houston Chapter of Knights of the Vine, are community leaders in wine sponsorship for many organizations and were generous with their wine. The Knights of the Vine special blend was poured as well. Small groups of members and guests delighted in the newest vineyard findings. One special place in Paso Robles was mentioned with gusto during a conversation I was privy to. More in a later issue about the visit I shared with my special love over the Valentine weekend all due to the incredibly knowledgeable members of the Monterey Peninsula Knights of the Vine!

31

Lodi

As October’s bounty was gathered fresh from the orchards, members and guests of Lodi Knights of the Vine were treated to an up-close educational tour of Lodi’s premier olive oil producer, Corto Olive Oil, followed by lunch at the Waterloo Restaurant.

The highly successful Saturday morning event was standing room only, and spearheading the gathering of appreciative olive oil fans was Gentle Lady, Sandy Rasmussen, who made arrangements for the tour and the luncheon.

The large group gathered in the modern state-of-theart production facility, where Brady Whitlow, President, provided an introduction and a short film on the early beginnings of Corto. Named for longtime area farmer and stakeholder, Dino Cortopassi, it was he who came upon an innovative olive growing system

Members learn about the olive making process before they embark on a tour of the production facility at Corto Olive

Members watch part of the production process at Corto Olive

that results in harvesting 100% of the fruit at ideal maturity that produces fresh tasting olive oil without any heat treatments. According to the company, the key was planting smaller trees into closer rows, (like fine wine vineyards) which allowed uniform maturity. “We are pioneers,” said Whitlow.

David Olander, Vice President of Operations, provided a thorough explanation as to how the process from olive to oil occurs, followed by a question and answer session.

Interestingly, the group learned that olive trees can grow for thousands of years, and that by 2020, California will be producing 14 million gallons of olive oil per year.

Olander provided a full tour of the plant, starting with the tank storage cellar that holds stainless steel tanks full of fresh product followed by a turn along the catwalk located above busy decanting centrifuges where fresh picked olives tumble into waiting vats for oil extraction. The group reconvened to sample the delicious finished product and everyone was given a complementary bottle of Corto Olive Oil.

All articles by Fran Benavidez 32

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Julie Thompson, Beth Grady, Brenda Jones

Dennis Faqundes, Cycles Gladiator Winery (Hahn Family Wineries), Gregory Burns, Jessie’s Grove Winery (owner/wine maker),Toasted Toad Cellars, Jeff Werter & Laura Werter, Father/Daughter winery owners/winemakers

Lodi Celebrates

Wine, Food and Friendship It was under a bright harvest moon that Lodi Knights of the Vine gathered in celebration of fine wine and fellowship at their 2012 Grand Assemblage Dinner held in the Garden Ballroom at Lodi’s Wine & Roses, a premier destination resort owned and managed by Knight Russ Munson and his wife, Kathleen.

The New Member Knighting Ceremony precluded dinner in which twelve new Knights and Ladies were inducted: Dr. Joseph Gayagoy, Maria G. Gayagoy, Jack Gilliland, Terry L. Goldberg, Joseph K. Handel, Beth A. Kim, Kyu (Daniel) Kim, Phil Lenser, Sandy Levy, Tanya R. McMahan, Steve Moore, Susan Patrick, Bill Russell, and Janet Smith.

Following the Knighting Ceremony, attendees sat down to a sumptuous four course dinner and wine pairing. Lobster Bisque and Local Pear Salad with Baby Greens was served with Toasted Toad Cellars 2010 Lodi Viognier. Entree choices included Red Wine & Sake Marinated Duck Breast with sour dough stuffing

& dried cherry sauce, Medallions of Filet with green peppercorn and brandy sauce, and Wild Mushroom Ravioli with sherry cream sauce.

Entrees were paired with a fine collection of local Zinfandel: Toasted Toad Cellars 2009 Clements Hills Lodi Zinfandel, Cycles Gladiator 2010 Lodi Zinfandel, and Jessie’s Grove Winery 2006 “Westwind” Zinfandel. The meal ended on a sweet note of Creme Brulee served with Jessie’s Grove 2009 “Sweet Indulgence” Flame Tokay Dessert Wine.

After-dinner entertainment included Lodi musician and newly inducted Knight, Bill Russell, who provided a long, spicy and fabulous finish to the gala; much like the exceptional Mark & Jan Chandler Lodi wines and friendships that were celebrated that evening.

Front Row LtoR: Joe Handel, Phil Lenser, Steve Moore, Bill Russell,Terry Goldberg,Tanya McMahan, Sue Patrick, Sandra Levy, Janet Smith Maria Gayagoy, Dr. Joseph Gayagoy, and Dr. Jack Gilliland BACK Row LtoR: Jerry Fry, Pat Patrick, Sandy Rasmussen, Mark Chandler, John Tudor.

Winter/Spring 2013

Sandy & John Tudor

33

Cathie Smith and Event Chairman Janet Hamilton

The Los Angeles Chapter returned to their roots in July 2012 with a French Dinner and wines in honor of our Charter for our Chapter from France. Event Chairman Janet Hamilton, invited the Chapter to her lovely home in La Canada, CA, to enjoy a wonderful gourmet catered dinner by Gourmet a Go-Go.

Los Angeles

French Dinner We started with a reception of French Champagne with passed hors d’oeuves; Dungeness Crab cake with light Dijon Mustard Dipping Sauce, Puff Pastry Triangles Duxelle, Ham, and Gruyere, and Country Pate on toasted bread. The Fish Course was Steamed Mussels cooked in white wine and garlic served with a baguette. The wine was 2008 Chablis Ler Cru, Les Yys Daniel Dampt. Salad Course was Salad aux Fine herbs with Camembert-Baby greens and Herbs tossed in a Champagne Vinaigrette and served with a toasted baguette and Camembert. Intermezzo was a Pink Champagne Granite, The Main Course was Steak Au proive served with green beans and scalloped potatoes. The wines were 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape, Domaine Lucian Barrot and 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, Peter Paul. The Dessert Course was Cassis Charlotte served on a light custard sauce. Everyone enjoyed the food and wines and being at Janet’s beautiful home!

James Hamilton, Randy Witt and Trever witt

All Articles by Neill Foster Lucy Zheng and Rosie Wageschiet

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September Event at Our September event was held in the San Fernando Valley at Restaurant Firenze Osteria in North Hollywood. Chef Fabio Viviani brought us his “Northern Italian comfort-styled food” to our table with accompanying wines.

The First Course was Pancetta Wrapped Shrimp with Ruffino Grigio wine. The Second Course you had a choice of Minestrone Soup or Caprese di Bufalo served with Tomaresca Chardonnay. The Entrée gave you a choice of Blue Corn Encrusted Alaskan Cod or Veal Chop with Balsamic Reduction and both were served with Butternut Squash Ravioli and the wine was Wild Horse Pinot Noir. The Dessert Trio consisted of Flourless Chocolate Cake, Mini Limoncello Cheesecake and Mini Cannoli that was served with Rosa Regale. We were seated family style and we enjoyed the informal atmosphere!

Mara & James Berkeley

India Rance and Lonee Urtuzuastegui

Holiday Celebration We once again found ourselves enjoyoing our holiday celebration at the Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hills celebrating the holidays with a black tie dinner for our December Event.

The reception wines were Champagne Potel-Prieux, Brut Grande Reserve, Champagne Potel-Prieux, Grand Nord Extra Brut, These were provided by James Cruce of Esprit de Champagne! Hot Hors d’ Oeuvres were passed by the hotel staff during the reception. When it was time for dinner we entered the room and it was beautiful with a lighted tree in the corner and lovely flowers on each table. We started with Poached Forelle Pear, Endive and Arugula Salad with Duck Prosciutto, Maytag Bleu and Balsamic. The wines were H. Blin Champagne Millesime, 2004 and Peter Paul Russian River Valley, Bacigalupi Vineyard, 2010 Chardonnay.

Next came Seared Diver Sea Scallops, Brussel Sprouts with Butternut and Lemon Vinaigrette that were served with wines Peter Paul Russian River Valley, Bacigalupi Vineyard, 2010 Chardonnay. For the main course, Chef James Overbaugh prepared Colorado Rack of Lamb, Laurie & Curtis Alexander enjoying the Holiday Dinner with Bruce & Debbie Fogarty

Winter/Spring 2013

Charles Urtuzuastegui and Quentin Rance

Crispy Panisse, Chanterelles, Indian Eggplant and Harissa-Garbanzo Emulsion with wines Champagne Sanchez Le Guedard Rose de Saignee and Joselyn 2003 Napa Valley Lonen’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. The dessert course was Strawberry and Pistachio Sponge with Basil Crumble, Bavarian Cream and Crème Fraiche Sorbet with Champagne Phifizot Brut No. 3. Those were served to complete a delightful dinner!

During our gourmet meal, a quartet appeared and sang Holiday Carols to us. This was provided by the Voices of Christmas. After the dessert Chef Overbaugh was called forward and Commander Foster gave him an award for outstanding World Cuisine! As the guests left the room, the Vice Commander and Event Chairman, Janet Hamilton gave each person a Holiday gift!

Smiling beauties, Suzanne and Georgie

A festively dressed John Hamilton with Lucy Zheng, and Tina Cheng

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Master Commander Buddy Hagner with new Knights and Gentle Ladies (L to R) Luis Salinas,Tyri Centanni, David Centanni, Rose Sladek, Mike Sladek, Jan Johnson, Brent Shortridge and Linda Bragaw

Brent Shortridge in a Blind Tasting Test before becoming a Master Knight

Houston

Wining and Dining We started the summer with the Ladies of the Knight celebrating the 2012 Olympics with a “GOING FOR THE GOLD” event at the home of Nan McCreary.

With co-hosts Lois Van Vooren and Michelle Wise, the Ladies enjoyed a selection of red and white wines that had won gold medals in wine shows throughout the Country. A highlight of the evening was when we all voted on OUR favorites. And, believe it or not the, 20-plus ladies in attendance actually reached a consensus on the choices.

On Friday, October 5, an enthusiastic crowd of 46 members gathered at Vintage Select Wines warehouse (our own “personal wine cellar”) to kick-off our wine event of the year, the 2012 ASSEMBLAGE ably chaired by Merrilyn Skelton and LuLu Curtice. Our special guest for the weekend was Brent Shortridge of Waterstone Winery in Napa Valley. The evening was a great start to our three-day celebration, with a casual wine tasting, a buffet dinner and live music.

Lois Van Vooren and the “Scoreboard” for our Ladies of the Knight Medal Winning Wines Tasting.

Our big night was Saturday: the ENTHRONEMENT CEREMONY, DINNER, DANCING AND A SILENT AUCTION held at a wonderful venue, the Royal Sonesta hotel. We inducted eight new members: Gentle Ladies Linda Bragaw, Tyri Centanni, Jan Johnson and

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Rose Sladek; Knights David Centanni, Luis Salinas and Mike Sladek; and Master Knight Brent Shortridge.

Seventy-seven members and guests attended. After the Enthronement, we enjoyed a Chef ’s Selection of Hot and Cold Hors d’Oeuvres, along with a 2011 Waterstone Chardonnay and 2009 Waterstone Merlot. Then we proceeded to the Grand Ballroom for a delicious fivecourse dinner. We started with Lobster Medallions on Celery Puree and Roasted Butternut Squash, served with 2010 Waterstone Pinot Gris, Napa Valley. The second course was Foie Gras Truffle with Cherry Smoked Duck Supreme on Oak Leaves, paired with 2009 Waterstone Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley. As if we hadn’t had enough, the chef created yet another treat: Duet of Organic Lamb and Veal with Front Drive Duxelles, complemented by a 2008 Waterstone Pinot Noir, Carneros.

But wait, we weren’t done yet! The Grand Finale, and the “piece de resistance” was a Chocolate Ganache Square with Almond Cake Apricot Confit, paired with a 2007 Waterstone “Study in Blue,” Red Blend Napa Valley.

During dinner, guests had an opportunity to bid on a silent auction that included, among many other things, three days and nights at “La Aguilera” in Sedona, Arizona donated (TWICE) by Bruce and Janet Misamore; an eight-day/seven-night cruise on a Private Yacht out of the British Virgin Islands for six people with your own crew and award winning chef donated by Dennis and Winnie Moser; plus Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo tickets, Astros tickets with club privileges, autographed footballs, lots of wine, private wine dinners and so much more!

Students from the HILTON COLLEGE OF HOSPITALITY AND RESTAURANT MANAGEMENT at the University of Houston, wearing their red U of

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Linda Bragaw at Enthronement Ceremony

THE BROTHERHOOD OF THE KNIGHTS OF THE VINE

Luis Salinas and David Centanni being tested before becoming Knights.

Houston-Style

By Nan McCreary

H shirts, helped set up and manage the silent auction and sell raffle tickets. We are proud to say that we raised $20,080 to benefit the Viticulture Department at Texas A & M and to grow our endowment at the Hilton College. We offer a huge thanks to our donors and generous members and guests who helped make our Silent Auction a smashing success. Also, special thanks to Steve Brack of Steve Brack Photography (www.stevebrack. com) for donating his services for the night and sending portraits for those attendees who took advantage of his great skills and sat down for a formal (but fun!) sitting.

After the auction closed, we danced the night away with live music from Moodafaruka, a wonderful combo that blends Flamenco, Middle Eastern, Spanish and Western motifs to create a tapestry of both familiar and new sounds. Dancing was briefly interrupted by presentation of several birthday cakes, and drawing for raffle prizes.

Everyone dance!

At center, Assemblage Co-Chairs LuLu Curtice and Merrilyn Skelton (in beautiful purple jacket)

In Memoriam Jerry Pope On September 17, 2012, the Houston Chapter lost its Vice Commander and the Knights of the Vine lost a dear friend and supporter of our organization. Tragically, Jerry died from an aortic dissection (called the Silent Killer) and we were all shocked by the news. Born on May 3, 1960, Jerry embraced life. He was well known for his gifts of hospitality and generosity. He was one of the first to offer to be an “angel� when KOV needed some seed money for our first KOV National Congress in 2008 and he often traveled to events held by other chapters and gathered friends wherever he went. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten.

Good friends contribute to our personal pleasure, making the music sound sweeter, the wine taste richer, the laughter ring louder because they are there.

Winter/Spring 2012

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Valle de Guadalupe Having heard much about the Valle de Guadalupe and their newly emerging world class wines it had become a “bucket list item”. Everyone wants to visit Napa, Sonoma, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Tuscany or Piemonte, but who has the “southern side of the San Diego border” on their radar screens as a wine country destination resort. Well, you should!

The Valle de Guadalupe is about 90-100 kilometers (60 miles more or less) south of the border at Tecate, if you feel the need to avoid Tijuana. It is about one and one half hours south of Tijuana by a new four lane toll expressway, and it is 20 to 30 minutes northeast of Ensenada on fine four lane highway. The main roads are to American standards. Ensenada is cleaner than most American cities, not one scrap of paper in evidence, no cigarette butts, no panhandlers on the street, no derelicts sleeping in doorways. San Franciscan’s should be so lucky as to have their city be so clean! But this is not about Ensenada.

One goes to the Valle de Guadalupe to experience the wines. The microclimate is very much like Napa or Sonoma in that there are cooling evening breezes off of the Pacific blowing through the mountain passes along the coast behind Ensenada into the valley. The valley itself is very dry, water is at a premium, and the vines therefore have to struggle and send roots deep into the soil.

Perfect for concentrated grape juice and intense wines. The wines at many wineries are outstanding – Napa, Bordeaux or Piemonte quality at their finest. The area is specializing in Cabernet, Tempranillo and Nebbiolo, with a great deal of plantings in Granache, Carignane, Chenin Blanc and others varietals not always prevalent here in California. There were some very unique blends.

Today there are between 60 to 90 wineries in the area, most of them started within the past 10 years. Boutique special places.

One would probably wonder about the quality of food that one can find in the Valle de Guadalupe. So probably a great place to start is to recommend the Villas del Valle Bed and Breakfast at the Vena Cava winery. Hard to find at the end of dirt road several kilometers off the main highway, but the restaurant Corazon de Tierra (Heart of the Earth) produces food worthy of a Michelin star or two. The dining deck extends out into the organic garden where the chef ’s assistants went out and gathered greens and vegetables to prepare for the guests while the guest were dining and watching. An advertised five course tasting menu was five main courses, eight courses in all if you included the amuse bouchee and the palate cleaning sorbets, etc. all for $55.

The Vena Cava winery produced an outstanding single vineyard single varietal Tempranillo, maybe one of the world’s finest.

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At Sol Y Barro the Swiss winemaker came to the Valle de Guadalupe via Orange County where he had been a chef. He literally has created the adobe brick winery with his own hands, adobe brick by adobe brick, created the art, did everything himself including learning how to personally make his wines – and what a fabulous Cab Grenache and great Nebbiolo Barbera blends they were. A bargain at $20 per bottle, especially in an area where the wine alcohol tax is 41%.

Chateau Camou is indeed intimidating. The pedigrees of its founders and winemakers include consultant Michel Rolland (the “flying winemaker”, movie “Mondovino”, consultant to greats such as Alpha Omega in Napa, and to over 100 wineries in 13 countries) who consults for this one in the Valle of Guadalupe Valley. Camou was started and is owned by a French winemaker who got his Doctorate from the University of Bordeaux and did his apprenticeship at Chateau Margaux. Pretty impressive pedigree.

With grounds perfect for weddings, with landscaping designed by and outdoor furniture all hand built by a wealthy Ensenada businessman, Vinos de Garza is not to be missed. Wines from this prestigious 4,000 case production winery command $80 retail and up to $200 on wine lists in Mexico City and other major resort area restaurants. The wines of Garzas have earned 93 point ratings from Wine Spectator.

With quality of wines, food and accommodations all excellenet, the area should also be on your bucket list. Or how about a Knights of the Vine event featuring a Mexican dinner with world class wines from of the Valle de Guadalupe.

BY

Winter/Spring 2013

Ron Fenolio

Cellarmaster, Lake Tahoe Chapter 39

Thomas Jefferson Harvest Dinner

The Morrison House

Nation’s Capital

I

In keeping with an elegant era, long past, the Thomas Jefferson Harvest Dinner began with a Champagne reception in the Parlor of the Morrison House, followed by a formal dinner in the Louis XVI Room of this small, distinguished hotel in Old Town Alexandria. Chef McPherson prepared a special menu including a few of his unusual delights with regional and seasonal emphasis. Chef McPherson elegantly captured a combination of tastes that were available to our Founding Fathers, including the great enjoyment of the bounty of the sea and the rivers (though now caught further away).

Wines were selected to meet high standards of excellence, especially for the double-pairings. Then our fun began – assuring that the pairings are to the standards we all have become accustomed to expect. This wine went better with the course!

No this wine was better! It is all in great fun. Our eclectic group probably could not agree on a particular wine that goes best with a particular course or preparation, except, perhaps all would agree that Cabernet Sauvignon really does not go well with Lobster Soufflé accompanied by a Sauce Mousseline Sabayon.

But that is part of the fun of pairing wine and food – understanding why people differ.

Initially, Master of Ceremony David Barber was a stern taskmaster,

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Following the Champagne reception, with a variety of champagnes and still wines, we enjoyed an Amuse of Big Eye Tuna Carpaccio accompanied by Uncle Dick, The Red Brute, Bleasdale Vinyards (Sparkling Shiraz) AU. The name itself attracts the imagination and the wine went well with the fish.

Instead of the usual Sauternes with the Pastured Chicken Liver Parfait, we decided upon Ovum Riesling, Memorista, Eola-Amity Hills, OR, 2011. The off-dry Riesling was superb with the liver.

With the Pumpkin Ravioli, we chose a local Virginia wine: Cooper Vineyards Viognier, 2011. The body of the Viognier balanced the sage, citrus beurre noisette of the ravioli.

eliciting from the 40 members and guests attending (the facility was maxed out); their justification why they prefer one wine over the other.

Often justifying one’s preference is difficult to articulate, making it part of the educational challenge.

However, about mid-way into the evening, the din of the table conversation sometimes drowned out with Dave’s words of wisdom. So a re-cap of a few of the unusual pairings is in order.

Then came the first real challenge: Pan Seared Faroe Island Scottish Salmon with Jerusalem artichoke, pork belly, and Brussels sprouts.

We paired this course with a second label Pinot Noir from the Carneros area of Sonoma and Fat Barrel Tenacity, an unusual blend of Pinotage and Shiraz from South Africa.

We were cautioned that much of the second label wine from Napa or Sonoma comes from grapes grown elsewhere. This is true, during parts of the year trucks bring in grapes and juice from elsewhere to Napa and Sonoma. Having tasted many Pinots from Carneros and having

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Annual visited the wineries numerous times, this author could not identify the winery, but if the grapes and wine are not from Carneros, he would very much like to know where they did come from.

Blessing of the Vines

The main event was a St Supery Meritage, Napa, 1995 paired with a Gastiago, Garnacha, Spain, 2010. These wines were poured with a Butter Poached Monkfish & Beef Bourguignon with parsnip puree, dried cherries and marchand de vin sauce. The St. Supery was elegant and full, probably nearing the end of its plateau of maturity.

This 17 year old wine gave further evidence that some California wines age well and can match the best in the world. Although large chapter cellars are probably not desirable, serving this wine illustrates the benefits small chapter cellars, with careful aging of selected wines, obtained when opportunity strikes.

Another treat was a second label Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, poured with the wide selection o f c h eeses. For this wine, we believe, we correctly identified the winery, but cannot tell.

Ah! The task of sipping, matching, and pairing!

Long after the dinner was over, and it was time to leave, KOV members and lingered, discussing the experiences of the evening and their personal experiences. This exemplifies the camaraderie of the KOV. As individuals, we may disagree on many things, but we are an agreeable group!

All articles by Ken Haapala

Winter/Spring 2013

On August 18, the Nation’s Capital Chapter of the Knights of the Vine was honored to participate in a Blessing of the Morais Vineyards, Winery, and Chapel in Bealeton, VA. The ceremony began with a procession from the courtyard of the main house which also has a tasting room and an extensive entertainment area on the ground floor. Master Heralder Walter Rachele, the standard bearer for the KOV, led the procession into the vineyards where Father Gould and the choir of St John the Evangelist Church performed blessing with style. The singing of the choir added particular elegance to the blessing.

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DISPLAY YOUR KNIGHTHOOD WITH PRIDE! order form Name _________________________ Address _______________________ City ___________________________ State ______ Zip ________________

ficb medallion (not actual size)

This handsome medallion is from our FICB headquartersin 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

(Shown actual size) This cloisonné Shield with Motto is green and red with gold lettering and comes with a military clutch fastener.

Order #SM $10.00

Telephone _____________________ 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

KOV Chapter ___________________ KOV Rank ______________________ Please send me the following items: Qty. Item # Price Amount

Sub Total

Priority Shipping $5.95

Total $

Visa or MasterCard # ___________________________________ Exp:____________ 3 Digit Code ________ ~OR~

lapel pin (Shown actual size)

Make check payable to:

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

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 a “clutchback” with 3 pins/clips for quick and easy mounting and removal, or a magnetic back that clips into a pocket for those who don’t want to stick a pin through their fabric.

Order #BPES (Sew On) $34.00 Order #BPEP (Clutch Back) $36.00 Order #BPEM (Magnetic Back) $40.00

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 at

w w w . k o v . o r g

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Active Chapters ARIZONA Southern Arizona Chapter Commander Karen Kornman 9847 E. Cisco Court Tucson, AZ 85748 Phone/Fax: 520-296-5696 kovtus@cox.net www.kovtus.net CALIFORNIA Chancellery Chapter Commander Richard Martella P.O. Box 118 Fiddletown, CA 9629 Phone: 209-245-3992 kov4wine@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 erniedg@earthlink.net Lodi Chapter Commander John Tudor P.O. Box 567 Woodbridge, CA 95258-0567 Cell: 209-601-4393 tudor@inreach.com Monterey Peninsula Chapter Commander Terrance K. McCleerey 123 Capitol Street Suite C Salinas, CA 93901 Phone: 831-422-2702 (day)

831-625-3211 (evening) Fax: 831-422-1397 tmmcleerey@redshift.com Orange County Chapter Commander Thomas E. McCrystal 27245 Regio Mission Viejo, CA 92692 Phone: 949-582-9253 Fax: 949-582-9036 cpg@cox.net

Winter/Spring 2013

San Francisco Chapter Commander Pat R. Pingitore 1340 Crestmont Dr. Angwin, CA 94508 707 965-2868 prpingitore@gmail.com GEORGIA Low Country Chapter Commander Gerald Kramer 321 East Liberty Street Savannah, GA 31401 0215gek@comcast.net MISSISSIPPI Gulf Coast Chapter Commander Morris G. Strickland 794 Destiny Plantation Biloxi, MS 93532 Phone: 228-872-6272 (day)

228-273-1517 (evening) Fax: 228-872-5939 mgstrickland@cableone.net Jackson Chapter Commander Norman Harris 106 Country Club Drive Madison, MS 39110 Phone: 601-898-2334 Fax: 601-898-9779 NORTH CAROLINA North Carolina Chapter Commander Ronald Newcomb 50 Canvasback Court Pittsboro, NC 27312 Phone: 919-533-3300 Fax: 919-533-3300 rnewcomb1@nc.rr.com

TENNESSEE Tennessee Chapter Commander Tom Webb 277 College Street Collierville, TN 38017 Phone: 901-853-7781 Fax: 901-854-0707 webbtom@bellsouth.net TEXAS Austin Chapter Commander Larry Peel P.O. Box 248 Austin, TX 78767 Phone: 512-327-3333 Fax: 512-327-3600 Houston Chapter Commander Robert Hagner, Jr. 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 International Chapters FINLAND Finland Chapter Commander Roope Raisamo Turpiininkatu 2 B 32 FI-33100 Tampere Finland Phone: 358-50-570-2007 rr@cs.uta.fi

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®

the brotherhood of the knights of the vine

National Headquarters 3343 Industrial Drive, Suite 2 Santa Rosa, CA 95403-2060 Tel: (707) 579-3781

Supreme Lady of the Vine

MARGRIT MONDAVI

RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS WINE AWARD Presenting the prestigious Atlantic Seaboard Wine Association’s Perpetual Sterling Silver Monteith Wine Bowl Trophy to Margrit Mondavi are left to right: Gordon W. Murchie, Supreme Knight, Anita Murchie, Member of the Board of Directors, Supreme Knight Representative Mike Thompson, Margrit Mondavi, Meaghan Frank, Carl Brandhorst, President, Dave Barber, Vice President, and Anne Vercelli, West Coast Representative.

January 25, 2013 – AWS senior officers of the Atlantic Seaboard Wine Association sponsored a special luncheon presentation at the Robert Mondavi Winery, Oakville, California, in honor of Margrit Mondavi.

The occasion was to present the Perpetual Sterling Silver Tiffany Monteith Wine Bowl Trophy to Margrit Mondavi in recognition of her years of exceptional support and contributions to the promotion of public education and appreciation of wine, food and the arts. Some 38 invited wine industry notables and media representatives attended the event.

Assisting in the presentation were Congressman Mike Thompson, Co-Chairman of the Congressional Wine Caucus, and Meaghan Frank of Chateau Frank, New York, representing her grandfather, Willie Frank, 21st recipient of the trophy, and her great grandfather, Dr. Konstantin Frank, the first recipient of the Monteith and a founding father of the American Wine Society.