Sokol Blosser Wine Blog

Have you ever noticed that during the Holiday season there is always one gift given that everyone else oohs and ahhs over more than any other? They secretly envy that gift, alternating between dreaming that they were the lucky sucker to receive it and wishing they were the smart coolster who gave it. This year, I was the lucky sucker. YES!

My fiancé and I were the recipients of the Kettle brand potato chips People's Choice IV Sampler Box. This year, their theme was "Fire and Spice". Really, Kettle's marketing plan is ingenious - recipients of the sampler are asked to throw a "chip tasting party" and then vote on their favorite chips on their website (www.kettlefoods.com). Here is what was included in our sampler:

- A fun guide to potato chip tasting
- Food and drink ideas for cleansing the palate
- Stickers so tasters can display their allegiance to their favorite flavor, and
- 5-oz bags of Kettle brand potato chips in the following tantatlizingly spicy limited edition flavors:
~ Wicked Hot Sauce, Mango Chili, Jalapeno Salsa Fresca, Orange Ginger Wasabi, and Death Valley Chipotle

Needless to say, our New Year's Eve party has been kicked up a notch to an all out fire-fest. Not only are our guests going to be sampling the hottest spices north of the border, but we are also having a I Can't Take The Heat drink pairing as well. Several selections of light beer, will be available, as will our favorite wine to pair with spice - a bottle of Sokol Blosser's Evolution. Being the owner of a rather sensitive tongue, I'm going to make sure that there is also an ample supply of milk - just in case.

Although our NYE party is by invite only, you can host your own Fire and Spice party and taste all the newest limited edition flavors that Kettle has to offer by visiting to their website, fireandspice.kettlefoods.com. Foodies and Fire-a-holics - rejoice!

Posted by Kitri Culbertson, Marketing Coordinator at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

About a month ago my husband and I were shopping at Whole Foods and I saw a classy end cap display of 3L Spanish boxed wine. I tend to experiment quite a bit when it comes to wine, so I grabbed a box. At the checkout counter, when the woman scanned the box of wine, my husband put his hands over his eyes and said, “I’m not with her; she picked that out” to clearly communicate how embarrassed he was that we were buying boxed wine. 3L is quite a bit of wine and it took us about 2 weeks to finish. We both loved it. It was easy to carry the box to the table, set it down, and quickly refill our glasses whenever they ran low. By the end of the “experiment” my husband admitted that he was mistaken and boxed wine could actually be good. (Apologies – we quickly recycled the box and I can’t recall the producer’s name.)

We were shopping at Fred Meyer last week and came across what I believe is their first Tetra Pak packaged wine – French Rabbit. 1L of French wine for $15ish (Vin de Pays D’Oc). Not bad. As soon as I put it in my cart, my husband said “cool, should we get two?” He clearly is now into experimenting with alternative packaging. We enjoyed it as a simple red table wine and again appreciated how easy it was to open, pour, and keep for several days. (And to think that the French – typically purests and old fashioned – are using Tetra Paks!) Instead of recycling it, I took it to the office to show it around. Tetra Pak packaged wines are huge in Canada; when I visited a Toronto liquor/wine store last spring, the shelves were full of Tetra Paks. Clearly Canadians like them!

This morning I read that Whole Foods is introducing two Australian wines made with organic grapes in sustainable packaging. The sustainable packaging is Tetra Pak.

All this research and curiosity on my part leads to me to ask this question: are consumers genuinely interested in alternative packaging like boxes and Tetra Paks? If so, at what price point, what varietals, and what appellations? If you have an opinion, I’d love to hear it.

Posted by Alison Sokol Blosser at 02:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

... and to all a good night! The 41st Annual Yulefest at La Salle Catholic College Prepratory in Milwaukie, Oregon was a smashing success. I was there and saw (and sampled!) it all! Sokol Blosser was there for our second year, amongst 16 other fabulous Oregon wineries such as Archery Summit, Panther Creek, Namasté and Girardet.

Yulefest is La Salle’s oldest event, having been held every year since the school opened in 1966. Originally, the event began as a small gathering of parents and Brothers enjoying Christian Brothers wines. Today, it has grown into a spectacular holiday celebration which includes delicious appetizers, incredible decorations, amazing wines, gourmet dinner, a silent auction and dancing to live music to round off the evening.

If you have never experienced this fabulous Holiday benefit event, be sure to reserve December 6, 2008 on your calendar. Sokol Blosser will be there - with bells on! Cheers, and thanks again to the La Salle Advancement Team for a wonderful and memorable event.

Jim Cameron gets a better look at Sokol Blosser's Meditrina.

... oh what fun it is to pour... Maggie McCue and Lisa D'Amore chat about wine with visitors to the Sokol Blosser table.

What a good looking bunch! Tom McCue, Tom D'Amore, Maggie McCue and Lisa D'Amore hold up their favorite Sokol Blosser wines. Cheers!

Posted by Kitri Culbertson, Marketing Coordinator at 12:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Part 3 of 3 - ST. JOHN, US VIRGIN ISLANDS

It is nearly impossible for me to visit the USVI and not make it to St. John. This tiny island is mostly national forest and home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. While beaches like Trunk, Maho, Turtle and Cinnamon are all “to die for beaches” there is one beach that is tucked away and is one of my favorites. However, this beach is a 1 ½ mile walk out of Cruz bay, around a wooded point. It is totally worth the walk. The only complaint I have this year is that my secret beach was crowded. Last year there were 3 of us enjoying this special place on earth, this year there were 7. The place I never miss when I visit St John is Solomon Beach.

Great Food & People not to be missed on St John:

Deli Grotto: After the third local told us about this great deli for prepared picnics, paninis and salad we had to go. Tucked away in the Mongoose Junction area of downtown, this is a great spot to stock up before or after spending time at the beach. This was my wife’s and my first meal on St. John during this visit and it was great to see two familiar friends when we walked in the door (Evolution & Pinot Noir). Before you create you picnic to end all picnics at the Grotto Deli, remember this is a cash only establishment.

Stone Terrace: Tell David that Scott from Sokol Blosser sent you in! It is always special for us to have people come and visit Sokol Blosser and then go and visit them where they live and work. David Browdowsky, his fiancée Michelle and I have done just that. David has been managing the Stone Terrace for at least 3 years and this was the second time I have enjoyed a very memorable evening dining on this stone terrace over-looking the bay. This is some of the best food I have had on the island with a staff that I remember from my last visit. Stone Terrace Tip: Make your reservations and plan to show up early. Then, go to the bar and have a drink with Allen. Undoubtedly, you will have one of the best conversations and cocktails of your trip. My only other advice is to make reservations with friends that like to share and try as much as you can. Special thanks to Allen, Dana, the Chef and especially David and Michelle from making the evening at the Stone Terrace so special for my wife and me. See you next year! David & Michelle, Susan and I will be thinking of you in December. Congratulations!

ZoZo’s: “Jas” at Sunset: This is another example of a winery visit gone full circle. James “Jas” Woodhouse visited Sokol Blosser this summer. So, I decided to pay him a little visit while we were on St John. This Italian inspired restaurant is a short walk from downtown to Gallows Point. Having spent most of my life growing up in the “South Phila”/South Jersey areas, I have been exposed to wonderful Italian. It was nice to see Italian on this little rock in the Caribbean and have it remind me why Italian can be so good. From the Prosecco to the perfectly grilled veal chop to the vegetable risotto, Prego! Here is what you need to know about ZoZo’s: 1) John Ferrigno, the owner, works the restaurant, and I think there is a Jersey connection here. The picture of the complete cast of the Soprano’s dinning at ZoZo’s may have given it away. Look for it as you come into the restaurant. 2) Reservations, ZoZo’s is a small and popular place. Plan ahead. 3) Eat at the bar. Now, I am not a big component of eating at the bar in most restaurants, but at ZoZo’s I think the bar seats are some of the best seats! For one, this is where Jas (pronounced Jazz) works. The other is the view, ZoZo’s bar is upstairs and overlooks St Thomas. Sunset is around 5:30 PM and the sun sets behind St Thomas. 4) Jas did not get his nickname because of his amazing talents as a musician. Thanks to John, Molly and Jas hope to see you all again soon.

Caneel Bay: I do not even know where to begin. Caneel Bay is a luxury resort on the North shores of St John. It’s a short cab ride from Cruz Bay, but wants you arrive on Caneel’s 170 acre plantation with 5 private beaches; it is truly hard to leave. After spending 14 years working in the luxury hotel market, it was a true pleasure to be on the receiving end of quality, personalized service. From the time we checked-in to the time we checked out, we touched or wanted for nothing. Private bungalows, private beaches, top notch service it made me think that if I was a celebrity this would be how I would be treated. Now, all this attention and beauty comes at a price. It is not inexpensive to stay at Caneel Bay, but now, having experienced it, I will find a way to stay there again. Caneel Bay is truly a special place on Earth! Thanks to Matt, Eric and Albert for making our stay indescribably wonderful, and for allowing Sokol Blosser Evolution and Pinot Noir to be a part of the fabulous place that is Caneel Bay. Scott’s Tip’s for Caneel: Get your Mask and Snorkel before you go to your beach of choice. Even if you have never snorkeled in your life, you will soon find that it is easy to learn and in no time you will be chasing fish, rays and turtles all over the bay. When the beach attendant comes on the beach to take your order, make sure you try not only the “Rum Punch” but also the “Plantation Punch” - you will not be disappointed. As for which is my favorite, I think more research is needed to make an educated decision. 4:00 PM: High Tea in the open air pavilion over looking Turtle Bay. One would think that spending the afternoon on a beautiful beach with someone you care about could not get any more relaxing until you follow it up with high tea. Choices of iced and hot tea with mini pastries, sweet breads and chocolates enjoyed with the soothing sounds of classical music. Do not miss this if you are a guest. Ask for Albert, the Sommelier or Eric the Restaurant Manager at dinner and pair our Sokol Blosser Pinot Noir with the chef’s wonderful tuna, duck, filet or lamb dish of the evening. Rumor has it, if you can not stay at Caneel Bay, you can purchase a day pass to use the resorts amenities. This would be something that would be worth looking into. Caneel Bay, I hope to see you again soon!

Posted by Scott Nagle, National Brand Manager at 09:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Part 2 of 3 - ST. THOMAS, US VIRGIN ISLANDS

Gladys’ Café, Royal Danne Pavilion Charlotte Amalie: This local breakfast and lunch spot is secretly touched down and around some narrow alleys in the heart of the Downtown area. Finding Gladys and her Café is well worth the journey if you love Bloody Marys and simple comfort food prepared with a hint of the islands. Why do I come back to Gladys’ Café? Hot Sauce. Gladys makes her own, 5 different kinds this time. If you like heat and flavor, this is your place. If you are lucky, Gladys usually works the register and she loves to sing to her favorite songs as they come on the radio. Don’t worry, you will be able to hear her no matter where you are sitting in the restaurant. Not only does Gladys make some mean hot sauce, but she has a great set of healthy pipes. Gladys’ Hot Sauce, a St Thomas must for me.

Ritz-Carlton, St Thomas: From the time you step out of the taxi you know this is going to be special. The Ritz staff greets you with an ice cold wash cloth to help refresh you from your journey to this oasis. Before you know it your bags are stored and you are greeted with a rum punch as you are escorted to registration. As an ex Ritz-Carlton employee it is nice to see the Ritz has not lost its commitment to quality and personal service. The Ritz looks out at St John and has its own 15 acre beach and bay. Between the hotel and the beach is what Alex Sokol Blosser refers to as, “the Ritz’s amazing pool.” Hobbie Cats, kayaks, snorkels and fins are all available at the beach activity center at no extra charge. The Ritz is yet another special place on these islands. Scott’s perfect Ritz day: Morning sail and/or kayak, some snorkeling the Ritz Bay, lunch at Sails by the beach, nice float in the sun (see picture), late afternoon nap on the beach, dip in the hot tub, back to the room to get ready for dinner, Evolution on the terrace by the Great Bay Lounge, nice game of billiards and a late supper at Bleuwater. Executive Chef, Jasper Schneider, claims to provide the freshest and most creative seafood experience available anywhere. If I learned anything while working as a purchaser for the Ritz-Carlton it is this, you do not argue with the Chef. The Chef is always right! In the case of Bleuwater, you can tell this restaurant is his baby. Hope you enjoy your days at the Ritz as much as we did. To the entire Ritz-Carlton staff you all are truly “Ladies and Gentleman Serving Ladies and Gentleman”. Thank you.

Charity Event - Montessori School St Thomas, Ritz-Carlton St Thomas:
Sokol Blosser Winery was proud to lend our support to our local distributor, Premier Wine & Spirits, to help benefit the betterment of education for children on the island of St Thomas. This wonderful event brought together over 400 people for a fun and festive evening, all in the name of a good cause. Thank you to all whom made this evening special. Susan Sokol Blosser, Alex & Alison, my wife Susan and I will gladly pour again next year. Please.

Lotus Asian Grill & Sushi Bar, Red Hook:
After 15 locals on the island, who work in the industry, told me to go and check out this modern Asian inspired restaurant I had to see it for myself. We meet up with some newly found friends, Jimmy and Kristy, who work at the Westin in St John and live in Red Hook on St Thomas. The restaurant is part sushi bar, part Japanese steak house. No grilling tableside, which is ok with me. We went to have a drink at the bar and I noticed that they pour our Evolution by the glass. I thanked the manager for his support of our wine, and before I could say another word our group of four was sitting at a table enjoying fresh and beautiful sushi, herb and mint flavored spring rolls and a tender piece of filet. All the food, people, conversation, laughter all blended to a tee with our Evolution. Great times deserve great wines. Thank you to the Lotus and our friends Jimmy and Kristy for making Susan's and my last night in St Thomas every bit as special as the rest of our trip.

Check back soon for part 3 of 3: St. John!

Posted by Scott Nagle, National Brand Manager at 09:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I have just returned from an amazing trip to touch base with our friends in Puerto Rico, St John, St Croix and St Thomas. I am happy to report that the Sokol Blosser wines are very happy and living the good life on these beautiful islands. Thanks to everyone whom has embraced our wines in the islands, you are all terrific. Now, some highlights from my recent visit:

SAN JUAN PUERTO RICO

El San Juan Hotel: Amazing and lively lobby. It blends old world craftsmanship with modern appointments. This was right on the beach with wonderful service and a great place to blend business and pleasure.

Old San Juan Restaurants: Try Marmalade, Dragonfly and Aquaviva. These are the choice restaurants of the locals and are a blend of Asian, Caribbean, Cuban and Puerto Rican cuisine. Created by Puerto Rico’s top chef these places are full of life and wonderful flavors. Don’t be surprised if you see Evolution by the glass at these hot spots - this is why we made this blend in the first place. P.S. - If you do not want to look like a tourist, take a nap on the beach and make your reservations after 9 PM, that’s when the locals start to think about dinner.

Il Mulino, Ritz-Carlton San Juan: Located just off the pink, marbled entrance to the Ritz-Carlton, you will find a New York classic. Ask for Steven Vazquez, the Maitre d’ and restaurant manager, then sit back and enjoy. The décor, service and food are just what you would expect of the Ritz and Il Mulino. Your smile will start from the time they bring your plates of Italian meats, roasted vegetables and cheese to when they serve the house made grappa and lemoncello at the end of the evening. We started our evening with a glass of Evolution and enjoyed Sokol Blosser’s Dundee Hills Pinot Noir with pasta and our entrée. It made for a very memorable last evening in San Juan.

Strip House, El Conquistador Golf Resort & Casino: Take the drive out of San Juan and spend as much time as you can at the El Conquistador. Play golf, relax, take the boat to the hotels private island beach and eat with my friend Jerry Martinez at the Strip House. This steak house is unlike any other steak house you have been to and the Strip house in Puerto Rico has the best view of any steak house I have ever been to. Blue ocean and islands as far as you can see from almost every table in the restaurant. Wonderful, informed staff and a steak prepared to perfection. This whole experience should not be missed. Look for Sokol Blosser Evolution, Meditrina and Pinot Noir to play their part in this memorable evening.

Be sure to check this blog in the following days for the next two installments - Sokol Blosser in St. Thomas and St. John!

Posted by Scott Nagle, National Brand Manager at 11:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)