AWS News – April 2025

IN THIS ISSUE

New member benefits on tap

In the ongoing quest to appreciate wine through education, consider taking advantage of these two new offers from AWS.

Time to book your room for the 2025 National Conference

Rooms are now available for the 58th AWS National Conference November 6‒8 at Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles, in Chantilly, Virginia.

Chris Pearmund wants your wine books

The owner of Pearmund Cellars poses a no-risk ask for help from AWS members to bolster his winery’s free wine lending library.

An election for AWS national officers is on the horizon

Watch your email soon as we solicit nominees for two national officers: Director of Education and the Director of Competitions. Elections will follow.

From the desk of the executive director

Natalie Dippenaar recaps preparation for the National Conference and  other goings-on from the National Office.

Don’t be left behind. Participate in the NTP!

Although the National Tasting Project (NTP) for this year is already under way, you can still join to taste and judge Australian wines.

Can you lend a hand to your fellow AWS members?

We are looking for current and former chapter chairs to serve as mentors. You can help build camaraderie and communication within AWS by assisting those who are starting or looking to start a chapter.

Scholarship applications to AWSEF increase significantly

Reviews are under way, and the list of scholarship winners will be available in June. Plus, AWSEF is seeking candidates for its board.

Congratulations to top amateur winemakers!

See the lists of the top winners over the past 5 years and the top 50 winemakers over the many years of our annual competitions.

Winemaker’s corner: Acidity, PH, and TA— OH My!

Making a good, balanced wine requires understanding which acids are in it, how to measure them, how to know what amount is appropriate, and how to adjust.

Obituary: Donald Gauntner

The longtime AWS member and chapter chair, certified wine judge, and former top amateur winemaker in AWS, died on March 25.

Chapter events

From Romania to Japan and many points in between, your fellow members have been sampling wine from across the world. Read what they’ve been up to.

New member benefits on tap

In our ongoing quest to help AWS members appreciate wine through education, we are pleased to let you know about two new benefits.

Limited-time discount for Wine Folly+

Through June 30, AWS members take advantage of a 15% discount on a subscription to Wine Folly+ (normally $99 per year). Simply enter the code aws-save15 when you subscribe.

As many AWS members already know, Wine Folly is an award-winning platform and brand dedicated to making wine knowledge accessible and enjoyable to all, from beginners to experts. With Wine Folly+, you will have access to:

• 32 high-resolution, interactive wine maps that allow you to learn in the palm of your hand or at home on a computer.
• Digital downloads and professional tools that can enhance your wine experience through aroma charts, a food-and-wine pairing guide, a cheese-and-wine party guide, and more.
• Unlimited VIP access to Wine Folly’s entire resource of wine content.

Partnership with the Society of Wine Educators (SWE)

This entitles members of AWS to discounts on membership and certifications. The special discounts include not only a special rate for SWE membership, but discounts on classes to secure the following certifications:

• Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW)
• Certified Specialist of Spirits (CSS)
• Hospitality/Beverage Specialist Certificate (HBSC)

You can access all this by contacting the National Office to get an AWS-member-only discount code to join SWE. By becoming a member, you will gain access to a wealth of resources, including:

• More than 80 recorded webinars.
• Comprehensive wine and spirits maps.
• Access to the SWE Wine and Spirits Academy.
• Invitations to members-only virtual conferences and webinars.

In addition, AWS members also can take SWE’s Online Prep Classes for free, provided they are current SWE members with an active CSW/CSS Exam Credit. Led by Jane Nickles, SWE’s Director of Education, these live seminars and study guides will help guide you through each chapter of the certification materials.

Don’t miss these opportunities to deepen your knowledge and advance your expertise! And be sure to visit our Member Benefits page to review all that comes with your AWS membership.

Time to book your room for the 2025 National Conference

Rooms are now available for your trip to the 58th AWS National Conference November 6‒8 at Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles, in Chantilly, Virginia — located in Fairfax County, a short drive from our nation’s capital.

The room rate is $179, plus fees. The room block is open for November 6, 7, and 8, and while additional dates are available, they are not guaranteed.

Reserve your room

Remember also to reserve your room for any pre-conference tour on Wednesday or Thursday (November 5 and 6) that you want to attend. Watch soon for details regarding pre-conference tours.

Behind-the-scenes work

Some of our local AWS members are part of our conference committee, and we are already discussing ideas for how to make this conference another amazing experience.

We are excited to once again begin our conference with an Opening Reception featuring our host state, Virginia. The Virginia wine industry dates to 1609 when Jamestown settlers attempted to cultivate European grape varietals. We look forward to learning and tasting what Virginia wines are all about!

Premium sponsor named

This year’s premium sponsor is Pearmund Cellars. In 2002, Chris Pearmund (with some help from his friends) built Pearmund Cellars from the ground up, making it the 47th winery in Virginia. Its success is based on making the best wine it can, while providing a unique opportunity on every visit for guests.

Over the years, this dedication to the original tenets of the business has not wavered. Today, as one of more than 300 Virginia wineries (and one of 26 in the Commonwealth participating in the AWS Welcome Here program), Pearmund Cellars is considered a leader in the Virginia wine community.

Pearmund maintains its commitment to using Virginia fruit. It sources from the Meriwether Vineyard on its estate, as well as from more than 100 acres of vineyards elsewhere in the Commonwealth. Pearmund’s vineyard partnerships are longstanding, using and managing some of the same vineyards as from its beginnings.

Chris Pearmund wants your wine books

As the founder and owner of his namesake winery, Chris Pearmund likes wine. He likes making it, he likes talking about it, and he likes helping others learn about it.

Now, he’s asking for the help of AWS members to continue that work through the donation of used wine books.

Some of the books available to read and borrow at Pearmund Cellars.

Part of the attraction at the winery in Broad Run, Virginia, is a collection of about 1,100 wine books that visitors can read and often borrow to help them learn more about wine.

“I have them broken out to wine history, wine and cooking, and by region,” the congenial Pearmund said. “We have reference books, business management, probably about 15 categories if I was to count them all.”

He’s loaned out many books over the years and says he’s probably received about 10 to 20 percent back. So, he’s making a request and an offer:

If you’re willing to donate your used books — regardless of when they were published or which language they use — send an email to him at Chris@pearmundcellars.com to let him know how many books you have. He will pay to have them shipped to the winery.

And, if you’re planning to attend the National Conference in November, be sure to visit Pearmund Cellars and take advantage of the library yourself as you enjoy some fine wine.

Election for AWS national officers is on the horizon

We’ll soon solicit nominees for our national officers of the American Wine Society.

We do this each year, and we’ve always been fortunate that many members have come forward to selflessly contribute their time and talents in the management and advancement of our organization.

Once again, the Governance Committee will lead the recruiting, evaluation, and vetting of future board members who will stand for election; you can expect an email from the committee regarding nominations at about the beginning of May.

This year, we will seek members to serve in the following leadership positions, with elections this summer for terms beginning on January 1, 2026:

• Director of Education (for the remaining 2 years of a 3-year term vacated earlier)
• Director of Competitions (3-year term)

Finding the right people is critical to our success

When we have more candidates running for officer positions, we can provide the widest range of diversity, skill sets, and contribution of exciting ideas for the society’s current and future growth and existence — and, most important, the overall enhancement of your and your fellow members’ experiences.

What we ask you to do

When you receive the email from the Governance Committee, be sure to read the job descriptions and consider your qualifications, interest, and willingness to contribute your time and skills to leading the society. If you don’t think you’re the right person but know another member who fits the requirements, then ask that person to consider running for office.

Should you decide to become or find a candidate, simply send an email to Governance-chair@americanwinesociety.net by the deadline specified. Anyone who expresses interest in being a nominee will receive the following:

• A form to provide a brief biographical statement for the desired position.
• Documents that each potential candidate should review and sign, including a Consent to Serve form, the AWS Conflict of Interest policy, and the Governing Board booklet.

From the desk of the Executive Director

Colleen Reardon, membership manager, and I are just back from Eastern Winery Expo in Lancaster, PA. We met many existing members, both amateur and commercial winemakers, and excitingly, potential members and competition prospects.

Natalie Dippenaar, AWS Executive Director

When you are out and about, or travelling, this summer, please remember to mention the competitions and other opportunities for wineries.

National Conference planning

We are also working with Diane Meyer, conference coordinator, on all things related to the National Conference. The session coordinators have received many great submissions and are working to place everyone in the available rooms. We plan to have a complete list of sessions in coming weeks so we can develop the conference agenda and distribute it to members by the end of May (and you can start looking for your favorites). We will use a registration system similar to 2023, and expect registration to open in late June. We will keep you posted on the details in the next newsletter!

Hotel reservations are now open, and you can access that through the conference webpage or through the article above about the National Conference. Since space is limited, we are looking at overflow hotels, and these will be available on the website as the room block begins to fill up at the Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles.

New member benefits

Finally, be sure to check out the new benefits detailed at the top of this newsletter.

Discounts and education savings offered by our industry and other service partners are one way we make sure your AWS membership dues are working for you.

Until next time,
Natalie

Don’t be left behind. Participate in the NTP!

Although the National Tasting Project (NTP) for this year is already under way, you can still join to taste and judge Australian wines.

Mike Blake, NTP coordinator

All the details are available through the NTP page on the American Wine Society website.

Remember that any chapter or AWS member can organize an NTP. And, if you don’t have enough members in your chapter, you can make it a Zoom NTP with other members or chapters! To participate or to just taste the Australian NTP wines, please register here.

Australian wine education is available to all members.

Please email me anytime to ask anything, and I’ll respond promptly.

Can you lend a hand to your fellow AWS members?

We are looking for chapter chair mentors. You can help build camaraderie and communication within AWS by assisting those who are starting or looking to start a chapter.

Current and past chapter chairs can help create stronger chapters by answering a few questions and sharing their expertise and experiences. The time commitment is minimal, and your support is greatly appreciated!

If you have questions or want to sign up, please contact Carrie Garczynski at directormembership@AmericanWineSociety.org.

Scholarship applications to AWSEF increase significantly

The doors have just closed for the 2025 AWSEF Scholarship applications. In total, 25 applications were submitted from 13 universities in the United States and Canada.

Isabelle Lesschaeve, vice-president for scholarships at AWSEF, reports that this represents a 25 percent increase in applications compared with last year. The increase likely results from several initiatives to expand the organization’s reach, including allowing former award winners to apply for a third time and highlighting previous scholarship recipients on its LinkedIn page. (These interviews illustrate why AWSEF is so proud to support these students’ studies.)

Regarding this year’s applications, reviews are under way and the list of scholarship winners will be available in June.

The scholarships help to advance the AWSEF mission “to support educational and research activities that will advance the viticultural and enological sciences to support a world-class North American wine industry.” Since 1995, it has provided more than $546,000 in scholarships to 177 students at 25 different universities. You can find a complete list of all scholarship recipients and brief descriptions of their research on the AWSEF website.

Scholarship alumni featured for research project

Stephanie Bolton, who received scholarships in 2013 and 2014 (both funded by the North Alabama AWS Chapter) while she was at the University of Georgia, was featured in a recent Wine Spectator article for her project that trains dogs to detect mealybugs and leafroll virus in grapevines. She is employed as the research and education director and sustainable winegrowing director for the Lodi Wine Grape Commission.

Call for AWSEF board candidates

Applications are being accepted through June 30 for 3 positions on the AWSEF Board of Trustees, with 4-year terms to begin January 1, 2026. They will be filled by election by the AWS membership this summer. Enthusiasm and readiness to work are essential qualities for candidates.

Kristen Lindelow, President of AWSEF

The AWSEF board has 6 trustees, elected from among the AWS membership, with 3 trustees elected every two years. In addition, the current AWS president and a general counsel are also trustees. Trustee positions are not for a specific position, but at the AWSEF board meeting following the election, discussion is held and trustees assigned to various positions.

To apply, candidates should submit two short paragraphs of up to 75 words each. The first should emphasize the candidate’s qualifications (years of AWS membership, committee, activities, etc.) The second paragraph should outline the goals the candidate would like to accomplish, if elected. These should be forward to Kristen Lindelow at president01@awsef.org

Congratulations to top amateur winemakers!

As reported following the 2024 National Conference, the 2024 Amateur Winemaking Competition in Winston-Salem, NC, awarded 186 bronze medals, 135 silver, 12 gold, and 6 double gold medals to 107 winemakers.

These links will take you to lists of the top winners over the past 5 years and the top 50 winemakers over the many years of our annual competitions, which incorporate results from the latest competition:

Recent AWS Top Amateur Winemakers

AWS All-Time Top 50 Amateur Winemakers

Point totals are calculated by giving 100 points for each double gold or gold medal, 58 for each silver, and 34 for each bronze. Points have been accumulating since 1975, when our records began.

Thanks to Mickey Krauss for compiling these lists.

Winemaker’s corner: Acidity, PH, and TA–OH My!

Kevin Kourofsky

Making a good, balanced wine requires understanding which acids are in it, how to measure them, how to know what amount is appropriate, and how to adjust. In his latest column, Kevin Kourofsky discusses how to do just that.

Read more

Obituary: Donald Gauntner

Donald E. Gauntner, 89, of Seven Valleys, PA, died on March 25 at Pappus House in Thomasville. He was the loving husband of Sue (Haug) Wieler.

A long-time member of the American Wine Society, he was the owner of La Rue Vineyard, in Seven Valleys, and was recognized for five years until he retired winemaking as the #1 amateur wine maker. He was a certified wine judge and helped start the First Capitol Chapter Wine Club in York.

Donald Gauntner

Born December 31, 1935, he was a decorated U.S. Army veteran and a graduate of the Command and General Staff College and the U.S. Army War College, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and Penn State University. He retired as full colonel, serving in the U.S. Army Airborne and Special Forces for 23 years. He had received the Legion of Merit, Purple Heart, Army Meritorious Service Medal (with Two Oak Leaf Clusters), Army Air Medial with cluster, Army Commendation Medal (with One Oak Leaf Cluster), Combat Infantryman Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Vietnamese Gallantry Cross with Palm, Vietnamese Parachute Badge with cluster, and U.S. Army Pentagon Staff Identification Badge. He was recognized for valor at the East Prospect Cemetery in York.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, Don; daughter, Danna; grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Donise; his brother, Bob Gauntner, and Don’s loving wife, Sandy (McGraw) Gauntner.

You can find his full obituary at https://www.kuhnerequities.com/obituary/Donald-Gauntner

Chapter events

FEBRUARY

Members and guests of Ocean Isle Beach (NC) Chapter had a real treat at our February 3 meeting. Stephen and Kathryn Barwikowski, along with their children Lily and Colton, gave an educational presentation regarding the sweat equity needed to build a vineyard and winery from scratch.

Anchor Rock Vineyards, South Dartmouth, MA, was only a dream in 2019. Stephen and Kathryn purchased more than 30 acres that were initially planted in 1980 by Apponegansettay Vineyards. Wildly overgrown, with structures in serious disrepair, the entire family began the arduous task of rebuilding a winery. Five years later, their diligence and perseverance has come to fruition with a broad spectrum of excellent wines.

The 8 Anchor Rock wines shared were:

• 2023 Seyval Blanc
• 2023 Cayuga (with a fudge pairing made with Cayuga wine)
• 2023 Cuttyhunk (75% Seyval Blanc, 25% Cayuga)
• 2023 Vidal Blanc
• 2023 Riesling
• 2023 Padanaram White (45% Cayuga, 32% Riesling, 20% Gruner Veltliner, and 3% Chardonnay)
• 2023 Rose (86% Chambourcin, 14% Traminette)
• 2022 Marquette

Stephen explained that their location does not have the heat necessary to develop good quality red wines, thus his initial focus has been on a variety of white wine grape. With 13 acres planted, all agreed after tasting the wines that the Barwikowskis have made a marvelous start to fulfilling their dream.

The Northampton (PA) Chapter held a greatly anticipated wine tasting event on February 2 featuring 7 highly esteemed and highly rated red wines, each with a market price of $150 or more. The wines were a combination of old and new world.

The scores by all of the 14 attendees agreed with the lofty media praise for the wines. The evening began with a welcome toast featuring Veuve Clicquot Champagne to set the stage for the tasting, which was followed by a gourmet four course dinner.

• 2003 Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino, $325
• 2005 Chateau Clinet, Pomerol, Bordeaux, $160
• 2019 Cote Rotie Syrah, Northern Rhone, $155
• 2015 Solaia Antinori, Tuscany, $350 (1)
• 2013 Phelps Insignia, Napa Valley, Cabernet blend, $350 (3)
• 2017 Heitz Trailside Vineyard Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, $150
• 2009 Roy Estate Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, $280 (2)

Many thanks to hosts Jim Vozar and Jody King for planning and hosting this fabulous evening!

The Monterey (CA) Chapter celebrated an early Valentine’s Day on February 7 at the Twisted Roots Winery’s Tasting Room in Carmel Valley. Located in the heart of Monterey wine country, the chapter visits a different winery on the first Friday of each month.

This event was arranged by our chapter vice chair Phil Arnold and Chapter secretary Anita Gozzi and we were hosted by winery co-owners Josh and Julie Ruiz. The winery generously offered our group their club space to bring food pairings for the wines. We tasted 6 wines for $30.

Twisted Roots is known for its 1918 old vines and big reds from its estate vineyard in Lodi. They have been making their own wines since 2005. We are fortunate that the winery owners moved to Monterey County and opened their tasting room here. The evening’s highlight was comparing and contrasting filtered and unfiltered versions of their 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon. The unfiltered wine was a deliciously rich and fruity wine, while the filtered version resulted in a lighter, yet more sophisticated wine.

• NV Twisted Roots California Brut, Monterey, $55 (1)
• 2022 Twisted Roots Albariño, Lodi, $50
• 2016 Twisted Roots “1918” Old Vines Zinfandel, Lodi $60
• 2018 Twisted Roots Cabernet Sauvignon (filtered), Lodi, $60
• 2018 Twisted Roots Cabernet Sauvignon (unfiltered), Lodi, $65 (2)
• 2018 Twisted Roots Petite Sirah, Lodi, $60

The 50 Shades of Grapes (NJ) Chapter, hosted by Jim and Nancy Quarella, met on February 19 at their beautiful Bellview Winery tasting room. Along with their wines, guests were treated to an educational overview of the exceptional 2024 growing season, followed by barrel sample tastings of the vintage. The highlight was to follow, as we were challenged to make our own blends from the delicious red varieties!

The featured wines were the NV Bellview Unfiltered Cayuga Pet Nat and 2022 Bellview Chardonnay. The 2024 Bellview varieties featured for the blending session were Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot.

The evening ended with an informal buffet dinner.

The Myrtle Beach (SC) Chapter met February 20 for ‘Don’t cry for me, Argentina,’ presented by Kurt Cowles and Ellen Elaut from Total Wine.

Chair and co-chair Richard and Mary Berezinsky and 46 members/guests didn’t need to cry, as the Argentine wines were fabulous! It is now the fifth-largest wine producing country in the world. We welcomed everyone with a Torrontes, Argentina’s signature white grape. Then, we met the superstar of Argentinian wine — Bodega Catena Zapata — which was voted in 2023 the #1 world’s best vineyard. The Catenas are recognized for their pioneering role in high-altitude viticulture.

We sampled a variety of their wines, but they are mostly known for Malbec, the country’s signature red grape. Catena Malbecs are so good they make your taste buds do the tango!

• 2024 Phebus Torrontes, $10
• 2023 Catena Lujan de Cuyo White Clay (white blend), $ 20
• 2023 Catena Chardonnay, $19
• 2022 Catena Altaland Pinot Noir Mendoza, $20
• 2021 DV Catena Tinto Historico Red Blend, $20
• 2019 Angelica Zapata Cabernet Sauvignon Alta, $50 (2)
• 2019 Angelica Zapata Malbec Alta, $50 (1)

In February, 36 San Diego (CA) Chapter members and guests adventured into Washington State Syrahs. These purple beauties delivered intense aromas of blueberry, chocolate, plum, and peppercorn. The wines were:

• 2020 K Vintners Motor City Kitty
• 2020 K Vintners The Deal
• 2021 K Vintners The Deal
• 2021 Le’Ecole 41 (2)
• 2019 Long Shadows Vintners “Sequel” (1)
• 2020 Luke Syrah

One of our resident winemakers educated us on the process for making the “Sequel” Syrah, based on his time making an earlier version of the same wine.

The San Luis Obispo (CA) Chapter tasting in February featured Thacher Winery and Vineyard’s assistant winemaker, Brenna Hall, as guest speaker for our Mourvèdre & ‘M’ Blends session. Brenna was a teacher before transitioning into winemaking. Prior to the tasting, Brenna shared two bottles of a Thatcher’s Grenache, which were enthusiastically received by the group.

As usual, 9 wines were sampled. Seven were California wines; with one each from France and Spain. Also in the tasting were 3 blends, all featuring Mourvèdre as a dominant component.

• 2022 Cline Dry Farmed Family Cellars Ancient Vines Mourvèdre, $15 (3)
• 2021 Tablas Creek Vineyard Espirit de Tablas Blend, $70
• 2021 Juan Gil Family Estates (Spain) Monastrell, $15 (1)
• 2021 Chateau de Pibarnon (France) Mourvèdre , $55 (tie-2)
• 2019 None Such ENZ Vineyard Mourvèdre, $30
• 2020 Thatcher Winery Controlled Chaos, $60 (tie-2)
• 2018 Cass Winery Rocking Ted, $70
• 2018 Rhonedonnee Wines Trail Secret, $60
• 2022 Birchino Little Big Block Vineyard Old Vines, $25

The Perkiomen Valley (PA) Chapter broke with tradition on February 23 as it sampled some early-in-the-day wines in a themed tasting centering on wines you can enjoy with your breakfast and lunch foods. The wines were:

• NV Prince Alexandre Crémant de Loire Brut, $14
• 2023 Giovanni Almondo Bricco delle Cillegie Roero Arneis, $29 (2)
• 2023 Hugues Beauvignac Picpoul de Pinet, $11
• 2023 Hermes Assyrtiko Pelopennese, Greece, $9.50 (3-tie)
• 2023 River Road Chardonnay, Sonoma, $14 (3-tie)
• 2023 Domaine de Robert Fleurie Cuvee Tradition, $23 (1)

In addition to the wines, Frank and Chris Giesa provided a wide selection of breakfast- and lunch-type fare to pair with one or more of each of the selections.

The North Wake (NC) Chapter held a tasting for 33 members and guests on February 23, at Heritage View Clubhouse in Wake Forest, featuring wines from Reustle Prayer Rock Vineyards in Roseburg, OR, in the Umpqua Valley. Owners Stephen and Gloria Reustle presented 4 of their wines—1 white and 3 reds—in a blind tasting against 4 European wines made from the same grapes.

The Reustle wines were favored by the attendees over their European counterparts for th3ree of the 4 wines. Prior to the tasting, we enjoyed a meet-and-greet welcome tasting of Reustle’s lovely 2023 Grüner Veltliner. Stephen spent a good bit of time discussing Grüner Veltliner. After tasting Grüner Veltliner in Austria in the 1990s, he realized that no wineries were producing it in the United States.

Reustle Winery became the first, planting Grüner Veltliner in 2003 and releasing its first vintage in 2005. It’s a crisp, acidic white wine, and the grape grows well in the Reustle vineyards. Stephen believes they are the largest domestic producer of Grüner Veltliner. The grapes used in all Reustle wines are sourced from their own vineyards.

Tasting results:

• 2021 Reustle Grüner Veltliner ‘Cask 2’ $44 (1)
• 2022 Grüner Veltliner Domäne Wachau $60 (2)

• 2022 Reustle Pinot Noir Reserve $48 (1)
• 2022 Chassagne Montrahet Pinot Noir $99 (2)

• 2022 Reustle Syrah Reserve $48 (1)
• 2022 Cornas Patou, Dumien Serrette $60 (2)

• 2021 Reustle Tempranillo Reserve $48 (2)
• 2021 Nelleolus Tempranillo Emilo Moro $53 (1)

The Berks (PA) Grape Expectations Chapter had a fantastic meeting featuring Japanese wine at Deerfoot Vineyards and Winery on February 22.

It was led by Jaime Linn Brown, who lived in Japan for some time and recently went back and purchased wines for our AWS meeting.

We learned about what Sake is, the steps of production, and quality classifications. We also learned about the different wineries and the social drinking etiquette. Jaime shared pictures and gave us an excellent presentation. We did an Asian-inspired potluck to follow the theme.

• 2024 Hamashima Sake Brewery Takariya Special Junmai, $14
• Hamashima Sake Brewery Takaraiya Junmai Daiginjo, $45
• 2023 Coco Farm & Winery Noumin Dry, $20
• 2020 Chichibu Winery Gensaku Koshu Sur Lie, $15
• 2021 Kuju Winery Catwalk Merlot, $30
• Hamashima Sake Brewery Takaraiya Kasutori Shochu Plum Wine, $25

Lehigh Valley (PA) Chapter members were introduced to the wines of Mexico at our Fabulous February tasting at Delizioso’s Italian Grill.

Our knowledgeable hostess, Alicia Orbin, explained that Mexico was the first place in North America where grapes were planted to make wine, dating , back to , 1521. Mexico has recently focused on improving the quality of its wines. Now, Alicia indicated, the secret is out: Mexico is a world-class producer. The tasting highlighted the diversity of varietals being produced and 2 of the main grape growing regions, Valle De Guadalupe and Valle De Parras.

• 2023 L.A. Cetto Sauvignon Blanc, Guadalupe, $13
• 2021 Bodegas Henri Lurton Chenin Blanc, Guadalupe, $24
• 2017 Paolini Aglianico, Guadalupe, $26
• 2021 Vinas de la ERRE Tempranillo, Guadalupe, $24
• 2020 Casa Magoni Merlot Malbec, Guadalupe , $22 (3)
• 2022 Casa Jipi Nebbiolo, Guadalupe, $23
• 2021 Monte Xanic Malbec/Merlot/Cab, Guadalupe, $23 (1)
• 2022 Monte Xanic Calixa Cabernet/Syrah, Guadalupe, $20
• 2021 Casa Madero Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon, Parras, $46 (2)
• 2019 Casa Madero Cabernet Sauv., Parras, $23

Later in February members enjoyed a BYOB at Thai Avenue Restaurant hosted by Ann Vlot.  Thanks to Alicia and Ann for a fabulous February.

In February, the South Sound (WA) Chapter learned about and tried several unique Romanian wines. The group was hosted by member Stephanie Brown at The Nocturnal Hound wine bar. She worked with Michael and Leann Stacey (who is also the Puget Sound Chapter Chair), and Teodora Bernadeta Baba, the president and owner of Teinnovadora Wine Company.

Teodora’s company tag line, “Culture in a Wine Bottle” aptly describes her approach to sourcing and sharing wines. The group explored Romanian regions/geography, terroir, varietals, and makers through her rich stories and detailed descriptions of the wines of her homeland.

Many of the wines included Fetească Neagră, a red grape varietal native to Romania that produces dry, demi-dry, or sweet wines.

• Sarica Niculitel Caii de la Letea Volumul I Aligoté (2)
• 2023 Rosturi Crama de Matei (70% Fetească Regală, 30% Fetească Neagră) (1)
• 2018 Domenille Sahateni Karakter Cabernet Sauvignon
• 2021 Starmina Vineyard Prince Mircea Fetească Neagră)
• 2018 Noble Five Budureasca (blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Shiraz and Fetească Neagră) (3)

MARCH

The Shallotte (NC) Chapter on March 5 met for a tasting of “Napa’s 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Thru Raymond Winery.” The 24 members attending learned that 2018 was a near-perfect growing season. Temperatures remained moderate to cool throughout the season with 2018 considered one of the coolest vintages of the past decade, allowing for longer hang time.

The 2018 Napa Cabernet vintage has been rated highly, with some calling it a near-perfect vintage. The wines are known for their balance, structure, and fruit flavors. These wines were very expensive, but we were able to purchase them at a substantial discount. The wines we tasted were from Napa Valley along the Coronado trail, from Stags Leap, Oakville, St. Helena and Spring Mountain.

• 2018 Raymond District Generations Cab Sauvignon, $205 (1)
• 2018 Raymond District Collection St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon, $155 (2)
• 2018 Raymond District Collection Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, $205
• 2018 Raymond District Collection Stags Leap Cabernet Sauvignon, $140
• 2018 Raymond District Collection Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon, $140

The Monterey (CA) Chapter held its monthly tasting on March 7 at the Morgan Winery tasting room in Carmel. At this event, we celebrated the work of chapter vice chair Phil Arnold and secretary Anita Gozzi, who are leaving the area and moving to Arizona. Chair Jacqueline Van Nes commended their work from the initial founding of our chapter in 2020 to today and wished them a fond farewell.

Morgan Winery is based in the Santa Lucia Highlands and Monterey region of California’s central coast. Renowned for its consistent, award-winning wines, Morgan embodies a philosophy of balance, elegance, and minimalistic winemaking. Acknowledged with accolades such as “Winemaker of the Year” and “Winery of the Year,” and featuring placements in Wine Spectator’s “Top 100 Wines,” Morgan’s commitment to quality shines through.

At this event, we had the opportunity compare their estate vineyard wines with wines they made from other well-known Santa Lucia Highlands vineyards. Morgan Winery offered us 4 vineyard-designate wines for $25.

• 2022 Morgan Estate Double L Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands, $48 (1)
• 2022 Morgan McIntyre Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands, $48
• 2022 Morgan Estate Pinot Noir Clone LT, Double L Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, $75
• 2022 Morgan Pinot Noir, Tondré Grapefield, Santa Lucia Highlands $75 (2)

In March, Annette Schiller led more than 60 attendees from the Lehigh Valley (PA) and Northampton (PA) chapters through a virtual tour of the vineyards of Germany, known for its historic significance and signature grape Riesling.  We learned about 13 wine regions and enjoyed the tastings of each.

In typical German fashion, soft pretzels were on each table to enjoy during the tastings, followed by a delicious dinner of bratwurst, cabbage, potato salad, and cookies. Thanks to Ann Vlot and Matt Green for hosting and preparing the meal, and to Miller Symphony Hall for the use of the beautiful Rodale Room.

• 2020 Melsheimer Pet Nat Brut Nature “Rurale, Mosel, $27
• 2021, Freyburger Edelacker Riesling Grand Cru, Saale-Unstrut, $50 (3)
• 2022 Peter-Jakob Kuhn Quarzit Oestrich Riesling, Rheingau, $28
• 2018 Rudolf Furst Pur Mineral Riesling, Franken, $25, (5)
• 2021 Battenfeld-Spanier 1er Cru Hohen-Sulzen Riesling, Rheinhessen, $35 (2)
• 2020 Dr. Burklin-Wolf Wachenheimer Gerumpel Riesling, Pfalz, $45
• 2023 Max Ferdinand Richter Brauneberger Juffer Riesling, Mosel, $39, (1)
• 2023 Max Ferdinand Richter Brauneberger Juffer Kabinett Riesling, Mosel, $29 (4)
• 2022 Donnhoff Weissburgunder Estate, Nahe, $20
• 2022 Schloss Proschwitz Weissburgunder 1st Cru Heilig Kreuz, Sachsen, $40
• 2021 Bertram-Baltes Spatburgunder, Ahr, $36
• 2022 Wurttemberg Dautel Spatburgunder,, $25
• 2019 Salwey Spatburgunder, Baden, $45

At its March 16 meeting, the San Diego (CA) Chapter took a deep dive into the AWS wine evaluation chart guided by 3 wine judges.  We evaluated 5 wines for appearance, aroma and bouquet, taste and texture, aftertaste, and overall rating.  Each step in the evaluation process was discussed and decided on as a group.  Wine tasting tips were provided by the wine judges and several wine makers in the group.  Everyone enjoyed great wines and learning how to use the AWS 20-point system to better understand and appreciate the wines. The wines were:

• 2023 Sobon Estate Viognier, Amador County, $18
• 2021 Marine Layer Aries Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast, $40
• 1995 ZD Wines Pinot Noir, Carneros, $45 (3)
• 2022 Sinegal Cabernet Sauvignon, Moon Mountain, $60 (2)
• 2018 Sobon Estate Tannat Reserve, Amador County, $28 (1)

The Myrtle Beach (SC) Chapter met March 20 for Dr. Konstantin Frank wines presented by Rich and Donna Kostanek. Chair and co-chair Richard and Mary Berezinsky and 32 members/guests were taken on a virtual tour of the beautiful Finger Lakes Region with its bucolic countryside, unique climate, and grapes.

Then, we focused on Dr. Frank’s history in the Ukraine and his importance as a rebel and innovator in winemaking. When everybody said vinifera grapes wouldn’t succeed in upstate New York, he planted them anyway; they not only thrived, but were a smashing success. He founded the American Wine Society in 1967.

While Dr. Frank’s and the whole wine region is known mostly for Riesling, we sampled two very old Georgian varietals (Rkatsiteli and Saperavi) and a few whites not found in many Finger Lake wineries (Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris).

• 2023 Rkatsiteli (Welcome Wine) $20
• 2023 Pinot Blanc $25
• 2023 Pinot Gris $20
• 2023 Dry Rose $19
• 2021 Cabernet Franc $28
• 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon $27 (2)
• 2021 Saperavi $30 (1)

On March 21, the Northern Neck Uncorked (VA) Chapter visited Wind Vineyard at Laurel Grove for an unforgettable tasting and behind-the-scenes tour. Hosted by owner and winemaker Tyler Wind, we sampled more than 10 wines, including exclusive pours straight from the fermenters—a true treat for any wine lover.

Wind Vineyards at Laurel Grove is a family-owned winery located in Tappahannock, Virginia, that boasts an extensive lineup. Its 700-acre farm offers the largest selection of wines in the state produced from estate-grown grapes, ensuring quality from vine to bottle.

We were able to explore the production hall, check out the bottling line, and learn more about the craft and passion that go into every bottle. A huge thank-you to Tyler and Ashley Wind!

Thirteen members of the Indian Valley (PA) Chapter gathered for an unforgettable evening March 20 at the stunning residence of Stephane and Anna Bouvier in Bucks County. Stephane expertly guided us through a curated selection of Syrah/Shiraz varietals from renowned wine regions, including Chile, Sonoma Valley, France, Australia, and Washington State. His insightful commentary on the unique terroirs and vinification techniques of each region enriched our understanding of these expressive wines.

The wines were thoughtfully paired with an impressive array of culinary delights, showcasing Anna’s culinary prowess. To conclude the evening, Stephane presented an array of dessert treats.

• 2021 Montes Alpha Syrah Colchagua Valley, Chile, $20
• 2018 Bedrock Wine Company Syrah, Sonoma, CA, $30
• 2021 Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Selection Saint-Joseph Offerus, Northern Rhone Valley, France, $31 (1)
• 2020 Laurent Tardieu Vieilles Vignes, Crozes-Hermitage, France, $35 (2)
• 2022 Torbreck The Struie Shiraz, Barossa Valley, Australia, $37
• 2019 Pursued by Bear Baby Bear, Walla Walla Valley, WA, $45

The Venice (FL) Vinos Chapter held a tasting on March 23 at the Harrington Lake club house in the Plantation Golf community in Venice. The hosts were Ted and Mary Alice DeVirgilis with a presentation by their son, Ted, who was visiting from California. The 26 members and guests enjoyed shared food paired with a selection of Pinot Noirs from around the world.

• Cruse Blanc de Blanc brut, France, $10 (starter wine)
• 2023 Samuel Robert, Oregon, $18
• 2023 Rabbit Ranch, New Zealand, $30
• 2021 Fern Ridge, New Zealand, $22
• 2019 Mascota Unanime, Argentina, $26
• 2023 Louis Chavy Coteaux, France, $23 (best value)
• 2022 Belle Glos, California, $33 (best wine)

The North Wake (NC) Chapter held a tasting for 36 members and guests on March 23 at Local 919 Beer and Wine in North Raleigh. This was our first event at this facility, and it proved to be very successful, thanks to Dana Clark of Local 919.

After a taste of a bubbly Malbec for mingling, members Sally Albrecht and Jay Althouse presented “A World of Reds,” featuring 7 red wines from both the Northern and Southern hemispheres. For each wine, they provided information about the winery, the grape, the region, the country, and, of course, information about the wines we tasted. This tasting intentionally featured red wines from grapes that may be less familiar to members, such as Agiorgitiko from Greece, Pinotage from South Africa, and Carménère from Chile. Other countries represented were Spain, Argentina, and Australia.

The wines from Australian producer Mollydooker are unique in that they are bottled with a small amount of nitrogen gas, instead of additional sulfites, to preserve freshness and minimize chemical additives. Their wines benefit from shaking the bottle to release the nitrogen gas before tasting. Regarding Chilean wines, in 1994 DNA analysis revealed that much of the Chilean wine then labeled as Merlot was, in fact, Carménère. Today, Carménère is often referred to as the signature grape of Chile.

• NV Gougenheim Malbec Bubbles, Argentina
• 2022 Lantides Neméa Agiorgitiko, Greece
• 2022 Stellenbosch Vineyrds Bushwine Pinotage, South Africa
• 2023 Casa Silva Terroir de Familia Carménère, Chile
• 2022 Nieto Senetiner Don Nicantor, Malbec, Argentina
• 2022 Mollydooker Two Left Feet Red Blend, Australia
• 2019 Museum, Cigales Reserva Tempranillo, Spain

APRIL

The Shallotte (NC) Chapter met April 2 at Sorella Pizza and Pasta, where Chilean wines were paired with Chilean food. One guest joined 23 members.

Chile is the world’s seventh-largest producer of wine and the fifth-largest exporter. Because it never experienced Phylloxera, it is home to some of world’s oldest vines. The wineries are sandwiched between the Andes mountains to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Chile has a Mediterranean climate, with wide diurnal temperatures (warm days and cool nights) with cooling from the Humboldt current.

We all experienced a new wine — Sauvignon Gris, thought to be an older version of Sauvignon Blanc with similar levels of acidity. It produces fruit with higher sugar levels than Sauvignon Blanc, which contributes to greater aromatics and a richer and rounder feel to the wine. At one point, these wines were highly prized; yet, because the vines yield few grapes, the wine almost became extinct.

We did not rate the wines due to a restaurant setting, but all were well received.

• 2022 Casa Silva Sauvignon Gris, $24
• 2023 Boya Sauvignon Blanc, $24
• 2020 Boya Pinot Noir ,$25
• 2019 Sombras del Sol Carmenere, $19

All the wines were supplied by the Sorella Pizza & Pasta and were available for purchase.