AWS News – April 2026

IN THIS ISSUE

Get involved as an AWS Board member or as a volunteer

We’ll soon solicit nominees for national officers of the American Wine Society. Consider whether you’d like to serve there or through a number of other available opportunities.

From the desk of the Executive Director

It’s full steam ahead at the National Office, with updates regarding the Wine Judge Certification Program, the National Tasting Project, member benefits, the 2026 National Conference, and more.

The Chapter Chair Playbook is updated and available online

Going digital allows for qucker updates with the latest guidance and ideas – and it’s searchable!

Central Italy’s wines are now available for the 2026 NTP

You can order until June 15 through our retail partner, and ready-to-use educational materials are available to help you plan your tasting.

AWSEF attracts a record number of scholarship applicants

Winners will be announced in June. Also, consider serving on the AWSEF board to help fulfill its missions.

Reminder for the Amateur Winemaker Competition

Keep an eye open for the registration this summer, and consider getting more deeply involved if you value the competition.

Winemaker’s corner: Winemaking after age 50 (plan ahead and take your time)

In his latest column, Kevin Kourofsky reflects on the mechanics of winemaking as you age, and a few changes he has incorporated.

Accent on education

The most common wine produced in New Zealand is Sauvignon Blanc, which makes up approximately 71% of the country’s total wine production and even more of its wine exports.

Obituary: Mary Susan Berezinsky

Mary Susan Berezinsky, 70, who had helped run the Scranton (PA) Chapter and then founded and run the Myrtle Beach (NC) Chapter, died January 27. She was the wife of AWS Board member, Richard Berezinsky.

Chapter events

From cellar selections in January to Valentine-themed events in February, and March Madness face-offs last month, your fellow members have been busy. Read what they’ve been doing.

From the desk of the Executive Director

Natalie Dippenaar, AWS Executive Director

Hello,

2026 is moving ahead full steam here at the National Office! Here are some items of interest:

Wine Judge Certification Program

The first year of the wine judge certification program is full, and we have established a wait list. This is the first time I’ve seen that, and it’s really exciting!

National Tasting Project

The National Tasting Project (NTP) website is ready with educational materials and the link to buy wines of central Italy. If you haven’t already, start planning your NTP tasting for your chapter, or even just a group of your friends! The window for ordering wine is March 16–June 15, and the deadline to submit scores is September 15. (For more information, see the article below in this newsletter.)

Member benefits

• A discount of 10% is available from Nick Rowan for his book, Japanese Wine: History, Regions, Wineries. The discount is available through June 18.
• Another perk is a 10% discount and free shipping from A Life Well Drunk on the VinGardeValise® wine suitcases. VinGardeValise® suitcases are the top luxury travel luggage — providing the utmost in quality, safety, and security for traveling with your favorite wine, spirits, beer, and other bottled items.
• Of interest to AWS members who take advantage an available discount to join the Society of Wine Educators: That organization will host its first conference since 2022. Check the Society’s website soon for details regarding the agenda and pricing.

National Conference news

Almost all the session proposals for the 2026 National Conference in Jacksonville, Florida, on October 23 and 24 have been gathered for review. Submissions close soon, so if you (or someone you know) are interested, be sure to transmit your proposal, even if you aren’t sure of all the details yet.

A sponsor representing Italy’s Roero wine region will provide wine and salumi. This is going to be a do-not-miss session!

Hotel reservations open later this month, and after a quick visit there in early April, I can quite confidently say it really is a beautiful hotel! Registration for the conference and tours will begin in June.

Thank you to everyone who answered the poll on where you would like to go for future conferences. We are working on some of the highest ranked for 2028 and 2029. We are also still looking for financial sponsors for 2026 — would your chapter, local winery, or a local business be an option? Sponsorships range from $200 to $5,000 and will be seen by 500+ attendees, listed on the AWS website, highlighted on social media and in our membership newsletters!

A reminder about travel

Finally, don’t miss the tour in early October celebrating America’s 250th anniversary exploring beer, bourbon, moonshine, and wine! See below for more details or visit the AWS travel page.

And, now that spring has finally sprung, it’s time to start exploring whites and rosés again!

Until next time,
Natalie

The Chapter Chair Playbook is updated and online

Armed with the latest intel from the National Office and chapter chairs, the AWS Membership Committee created a new playbook in a digital format, so chapter chairs can easily find fresh ideas for everything from running a meeting to chapter finances and leveraging social media.

It’s designed to benefit new and veteran chapter chairs as an ongoing reference as you grow your chapters and serve your members.

Going digital allows the National Office to quickly and easily update the playbook with the latest guidance and ideas. It’s also searchable, so you can jump directly to the information you seek.

You can find a link in the Chapter Resources section of the website after logging into the membership portal. Because it is only for AWS members, it is not accessible on the public-facing portion of the website. You can bookmark the link to get there quickly, anytime. If you prefer, you can print it or save it as a PDF using your browser settings.

Let us know if we’ve missed anything, or if you have additional tips or suggestions to share with fellow chapter chairs.

Central Italy’s wines are now available for the 2026 NTP

Dennis Fraley, NTP Coordinator

Be sure to participate in the 2026 National Tasting Project (NTP), because what sets this year’s effort apart is how much preparation has already been done.

The NTP is a collaborative tasting by AWS members from multiple chapters to learn about and taste the same wines and compare their scores using the American Wine Society Wine Evaluation format. It is open to every AWS member. You don’t need to be a chapter chair. You don’t need to be a certified wine judge. You just need curiosity and a willingness to taste, discuss, and share your impressions.

Chapters do not have to start from scratch. Everything needed for a successful tasting is ready to go.

Plus, this year, it’s all about Central Italy. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the volcanic soils of Lazio and the coastal vineyards of Le Marche and Umbria, the 2026 NTP invites members to explore one of the world’s most captivating wine regions.

Educational materials, ready to use

The NTP Committee developed comprehensive background information on Central Italy’s wine regions, grape varieties, and styles, helping presenters to share accurate, engaging insights without conducting hours of research.

Customizable presentation slides

Each chapter will receive presentation slides that can be tailored to its specific wines. Whether focusing on Sangiovese-based reds, crisp Verdicchios, or aromatic Trebbianos, the slides provide a professional foundation for any tasting.

Support from the NTP Committee and regional ambassadors

This year, the NTP Committee is working closely with regional ambassadors to ensure that every chapter feels supported. From selecting wines to organizing the event, help is available at every step. Although any group can host a tasting, connecting with your chapter chair or regional ambassador can help maximize participation and minimize costs. If you want to lead a tasting, sign up as an NTP Organizer.

Ordering your wines

Wines are available until June 15 through our retail partner, Shiraz at Home in Athens, GA, with discounted pricing and shipping for NTP participants. On the ‘Collections’ page, you can choose from among 3 ordering options:

• Full tasting box (12 bottles), east of the Mississippi
• Full tasting box (12 bottles), west of the Mississippi
• Bespoke additions, for partial cases or individual bottles

While we encourage chapters to experience all 12 wines, partial case ordering is available for chapters that prefer a smaller selection. Note that full cases offer the best per-bottle shipping value.

Before you order, please read the full instructions on the ordering page. You will find important details about the half-bottle Passito, suggestions for splitting the tasting across multiple sessions, and contact information for our retail partner if you have questions.

Join the journey

The 2026 National Tasting Project offers a chance to travel through Central Italy’s vineyards without leaving the tasting room. With materials prepared and support at hand, chapters can focus on what matters most: tasting, learning, and connecting. And remember that NTP is open to every AWS member; you don’t have to be a chapter chair or a certified wine judge.

For more information, visit our frequently asked questions. And, you can always get in touch with me by email.

We hope you will join us in Central Italy!

AWSEF attracts a record number of scholarship applicants

The application period for the 2026 AWS Educational Scholarships closed on March 31 with a record number of applicants.

To date, the AWSEF has awarded about $600,000 in scholarship support to deserving students. We support full-time graduate students pursuing degrees in enology, viticulture, or the health aspects of wine who intend to work in the industry upon graduation and who are permanent residents of North America.

We’re reviewing the applications and essays now and will have winners to announce in early June!

Huge thanks to all the chapters and individual members who’ve raised funds, made financial donations, and supported our Silent Auction at the AWS National Conference –this is how we’re able to offer a total of 8 scholarships this year!

Consider serving to help others

We have an opening on our Board and are looking for a member who is interested in managing the behind-the-scenes of the Silent Auction.

The Silent Auction is a significant fundraiser for AWSEF — in 2025, it raised $5,770 – so we need your help. Remember that as a member of AWS, you are automatically a member of AWSEF as well and therefore eligible to serve.

If you’re interested or would like more information, please contact me at president01@awsef.org.

Kristen Lindelow, President
AWS Educational Foundation

Reminder for the Amateur Wine Competition

Vince Williams, Director of Competitions

Registration for the Amateur Wine Competition will open in July, so as you prepare to bottle your next vintage, remember to set aside some bottles to enter!

Past registrants will receive an email announcement when we are ready to begin. If you are aware of people whom you want us to include in the notification when it’s time to register, send a note to awc@americanwinesociety.org.

Also, we still are looking for the right person to lead the competition going forward, so if you have interest or know of someone who would, get in touch with me. In the meantime, I’m getting everything ready for a smooth hand-off.

I’ll see you at the National Conference in Jacksonville, Florida!

Winemaker’s corner: Winemaking after 50 (plan ahead and take your time)

Kevin Kourofsky

Although you have to be more thoughtful about the mechanics of winemaking as you age, you can continue to do so with a few tricks and some compromises, (and maybe a few bucks invested).

In his latest column, Kevin Kourofsky details a few changes he has made to lessen the physical impact of winemaking without lessening the quantity and quality of wine that he wants to make.

Read more here

Accent on education

The most common wine produced in New Zealand is Sauvignon Blanc, which makes up approximately 71% of the country’s total wine production and around 85%-89% of its wine exports.

Waiheke Island Bordeaux blends dominate New Zealand’s luxury segment because of their rarity and quality, mimicking premium international styles, unlike the more common (and affordable) Marlborough Sauvignon Blancs.

The most expensive winery in New Zealand on a cost-per-bottle basis is Destiny Bay on Waiheke Island, with its flagship wine, Magna Praemia, regularly priced around $495 USD per bottle. This Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant Bordeaux blend is highly-limited in production, critically acclaimed, and sought after by collectors. Tip: You can get a 2022 vintage from wine-searcher.com for $463 USD plus tax.

Thanks to the San Luis Obispo (CA) Chapter for creating this feature.

Obituary: Mary Susan Berezinsky

Mary Susan Berezinsky, 70, who had helped run the Scranton (PA) Chapter and then founded and run the Myrtle Beach (NC) chapter, died January 27. She was the wife of AWS Board member Richard Berezinsky. They were married for more than 45 years.

A memorial service was held in South Carolina. Another memorial service and internment will take place in Scranton, PA, this spring. Donations can be made in Mary’s honor to the AWS or ASPCA.

Read a more personal, detailed obituary here

Chapter events

JANUARY

The Fleur de Lis Chapter of Louisville (KY) held its last tasting on January 17, hosted by David and Alicia Scheu. This event was our annual “Share Your Cellar” tasting where we do not rank the wines but explore multiple varietals with multiple years of aging.

As we arrived we were greeted with a tasting of 2024 Carmen Gran Reserva Sauvignon Blanc from Chile and at dinner we enjoyed a 2022 Mazzocco Zinfandel Briar Vineyard from Dry Creek California or a 2017 Matrix Petite Sirah Estate from Russian River Valley California. The wines that members brought from their cellars are listed below in no particular order.

• 2015 Heir Apparent Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, Napa Valley, California
• 1992 124th Kentucky Derby Collectors Edition, Alexander Valley, California
• 2014 Martinelli Lolita Ranch, Syrah, Russian River Valley, California
• 2002 Clos du Mont-Olivet Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Cuvee du Pape, France
• 2001 Domaine Tempier Bandol, Provence, France
• 2007 E. Guigal “Brune et Blonde” Côte-Rôtie, Rhone, France

FEBRUARY

On February 6, the Monterey (CA) Chapter celebrated an early Valentine’s Day at Lepe Cellars’ new tasting room in Carmel Valley. Organized by our vice chair, Sharon Houy, 32 chapter members and guests attended this lively event and brought tasty appetizers to pair with the wines.

We were hosted by vintner Miguel Lepe and his tasting room manager, Thyra Roth. They waived our tasting fee with the purchase of two bottles. In addition, they gave us a 20 percent discount on purchases and raffled off a magnum of their 2021 Petit Verdot!

Miguel studied oenology and viticulture at California Polytechnic State University – SLO. He began his career working for various well-respected wineries across California’s Central Coast and in South America. Passionate about his craft, Miguel’s hard work and dedication led him to create Lepe Cellars with the intent to showcase the best of Monterey County wines. He highlighted to our group that he produces single varietal, single vineyard wines, sourcing his grapes from some of the very best vineyards in Monterey County.

Here’s what we tasted:

• 2023 Lepe Cellars Anniversary Pinot Noir, Monterey County, $75 (1)
• 2022 Lepe Cellars Grenache, Arroyo Seco AVA, $45
• 2023 Lepe Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, San Antonio Valley AVA, $65
• 2023 Lepe Cellars Cabernet Franc, San Antonio Valley AVA, $55
• 2022 Lepe Cellars Anniversary Red Blend, Monterey County, $75 (2)

With 35 people attending its event In February, the San Diego (CA) Chapter compared Pinot Noir wines from the Sonoma Coast, Santa Lucia Highlands, and Santa Rita Hills. The competition was fierce among these 3 premier Pinot Noir regions, and we are happy to report no black eyes from the punch-out.

Pinot Noir, the heartbreak grape, demands terrior that produces a long, cool growing season to develop the acidity, finesse, and delicacy of a great wine. The 3 regions compared all occupy the perfect terrior because of the cooling impact of the Pacific Ocean.

The presentation showed how each region has the right mix of sun shine, heat, and cooling to produce valued Pinot Noir. You can find the presentation can be found on our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/SanDiegoAWS).

We compared wines in 2 sets of 3 wines each:

First set

• 2023 Schug Sonoma Coast, $20
• 2023 Bernardus Santa Lucia Highlands, $26 (1)
• 2020 LaFond Santa Rita Hills, $36

Second set

• 2021 Patz & Hall Sonoma Coast, $39
• 2022 Talbott Sleepy Hallow Santa Lucia Highlands, $40
• 2022 Sanford Santa Rita Hills, $39

The Ocean Isle Beach (NC) Chapter held an Italian wine tasting on February15, attended by 70 members and guests at Silver Coast Winery. The presenter was Jay Raffaldini of Raffaldini Vineyards in the Yadkin Valley.

Jay shared his Wall Street background and how he came to purchase an abandoned farm and turn it into a recognized winery, providing classic dry Italian style wines. He related bringing the Italian vines to the Carolinas and making the wines from where his family heralded. He also shared the challenges of the different grapes with the soils and differing climates, which led to him to adopt the use of Appassimento, a traditional Italian method of drying grapes.

Attendees learned how timely and costly this method of dehydrating grapes is, losing anywhere from 20% to 30% of the original water weight. This process does produce stronger colors, aromatics, and lingering flavors, enabling Raffaldini to produce dry, rich Italian-style wines.

We were also introduced to the Italian word “Auguri,” which means cheers to your health and happiness! The following wines were enjoyed (AWS prices listed):

• 2024 Auguri, $27
• 2023 Vermentino Rovere, $22
• NV Sangiovese Classico, $28
• NV II Falco, $33
• 2022 Mezzogiorno $24
• 2022 Grande Riserva, $56
• Meditazione, $24

The Venice (FL) Vinos Chapter held a tasting on Sunday, February 22, at the Sun Outdoors Sarasota resort’s Cypress Room, hosted by Ken and Margaret Grezlit. Some 32 members and guests attended. The theme was “Wines from Cyprus.” The wines were supplied by Ambeli LLC, in coordination with Ari Kyriakides, the distributor. Mediterranean food pairings were supplied and shared by each attendee. All wines received high score from our group.

• 2024 Ambelis Morokanella dry white, $30
• 2024 Ambelis Maratheftiko rose, $19
• 2023 Zambartas Mataro-Yiannoudi red blend, $24 (best value)
• 2020 Ambelis Omiros Marathftiko dry red, $28
• 2023 Zambartas Shiraz-Lefkada red blend, $28
• 2022 Vlassides Oroman Giannoudi, $32 (best wine)

The North Wake (NC) Chapter met on February 22 in the banquet room of Heritage Golf in Wake Forest. We had a full house of 48 members and guests who tasted 7 of the Top 100 Value Wines from Wine Spectator’s 2025 listing.

Former chapter co-chair Jay Davis led us through quite a variety of wines: 2 California Chenin Blancs, a Rosé and a Pinot Noir from France, an Italian Super Tuscan, a Chianti Classico from Italy, and a red blend from Chile. Jay provided an excellent handout that contained information on each wine and winery.

Our chapter holds a tasting of Wine Spectator value wines (under $25) every year, and this is always one of our most popular events.

The wines we tasted, with the prices we paid locally, were:

• 2023 Dry Creek Chenin Blanc, Sonoma, $18
• 2024 Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc-Vigonier, Napa, $16 (3)
• 2024 Chateau d’Estoublon Rosé, Provence, $23
• 2023 Albert Bichot Pinot Noir, Burgundy, $25
• 2022 Castello Banfi Centine, Tuscany, $15
• 2021 Ruffino Chianti Classico Reserva, Italy, $16 (2)
• 2022 Primus, The Blend, Chile, $21 (1)

The Finger Lakes (NY) Chapter in February featured an opportunity to learn about regional wine styles and blends, with all of the wines showing well and providing a variety of aromas and textures. The wines were:

• 2023 Llama “100 Year Old Vine” Malbec (100%) Lujan de Cuyo, Argentina, $14
• 2023 Clos La Coutale Malbec Cahors, France (80% Malbec, 20% Merlot), $16
• 2022 Juan Gil “Silver Label” Monastrell (100%), Jumilla, Spain, $18 (2-tie)
• 2021 Domaine de la Begude Bandol (90% Mourvèdre, 10% Grenache), $20 (2-tie)
• 2023 Garzon Tannat (100%) Reserva, Uruguay, $19 (1)
• 2023 Laplace “l’Origine” Madiran, France (70% Tannat, 30% Cabernet Franc), $14

We also voted separately on pairs of wines. On Malbecs, we were evenly divided between the Lujan de Cuyo and Cahors. We favored Jumilla’s Monastrell over the Bandol,  and the Uruguayan Tannat beat the Madiran.

We had good things to say about all the wines ,but the Tannats made their appeal- – far from the expectation that they would be overly tannic and acidic. Winemakers have adjusted to the marketplace! We were impressed by the attractiveness and distinctiveness in all 3 pairings. Thanks to everyone for sharing their opinions.

50 Shades of Grapes (NJ) Chapter held its February gathering in a beautiful and intimate setting at Wanda in Haddonfield, New Jersey.

Hosted by Sharyn and Emmanuel Kervyn, 26 members and guests enjoyed a perfectly paired wine dinner by Chef Anthony from Wanda. The featured wine selections were served blind, along with an interactive Quality Study presentation given by Sharyn.

Wines tasted were:

• NV Francois Montand Brut Blanc de Blancs, Jura, $19
• 2023 Vivien Gabrielle Chablis, $31
• 2022 Vivien Gabrielle Petite Chablis, $28
• 2023 Vivien Gabrielle 1er Cru Vaillons, $62
• 2022 Tenuta Di Renieri Chianti Classico, $23
• 2021 Tenuta Di Renieri Chianti Classico Riserva Gran Selezione, $40
• 2022 Tenuta Di Renieri Chianti Classico Riserva, $29

The February meeting of the San Luis Obispo (CA) Chapter focused on Chenin Blanc. Our guide and guest speaker for the blind tasting was Doug Higinger, winemaker of Paris Valley Road Winery.

Doug grew up in Chula Vista IN Southern California. He enrolled in CalPoly, planning to major in mechanical engineering. To make ends meet, Doug worked at several local restaurants; that’s where he first developed an interest in winemaking.

After graduating with a minor in viniculture, Doug hired on at SLO’s Chamisal Vineyards. Then he took a serious southern detour, working for several years at Oyster Bay Co. on the South Island of New Zealand. Upon returning to California, Doug secured a position at Justin Vineyards & Winery. His next stop and current position is as the winemaker at Paris Valley Road Estate Winery.

• 2022 Beaumont Chenin Blanc, Bot River, Walker Bay, South Africa, $20 (1-tie)
• 2023 Riding Monkey Chenin Blanc, Santa Maria Valley, $28
• 2024 Lieu Dit Chenin Blanc, Lompoq, Santa Ynez Valley, $23
• 2024 Rococo “Own-roo ted,” Central Coast, $25 (3)
• 2022 Domaine des Aubuisières Chenin Blanc Vouvray, France, $25
• 2023 Paris Valley Road Winery Chenin Blanc, $31, (2)
• 2022 Domaine FL Chamboureau Chenin Blanc, Savennieres, France, $40
• 2021 Kunin Wines Chenin Blanc, Santa Ynez Valley, $33
• 2023 Fine Disregard Chenin Blanc, Monterey County, $35 (1-tie)

The Lehigh Valley (PA) Chapter gave Shannon and Dave Tompkins high scores at their second Sommelier Tasting Series on February 15 at the Fairways at Brookside Community Center.

The Tompkins took roughly 20 members and guests through an educational tasting journey of what it takes to become Sommeliers. They exposed us to the different varietals and regions of the wines they were required to taste and challenged us to identify the various aromas and tastes within each wine.

• LeGrand Courtage Brut Rose, Pinot Noir, Burgundy, $18
• 2024 Ken Forrester Old Vine Reserve, Chenin Blanc, South Africa, $19
• 2023 Champalou Vouvray, Chenin Blanc, Touraine, $25
• 2021 Domaine des Bosquets, Grenache/Syrah, Gigondas, $85
• 2013 Kimsey Ballard Canyon, Grenache, Santa Barbara. $30
• 2020 Domaine Grosbois, Cabernet Franc, Chinon, $42
• 2022 Tenuta Luisa, Cabernet Franc, Venezia, $26

The Shallotte (NC) Chapter was finally able to hold its first meeting of 2026, which had been postponed repeatedly because of bad weather. Our theme was “Those Amazing Costco Wines.” In attendance were 12 members; many passed on this event because of the Lenten season.

A review on the Kirkland Signature private label brands revealed that the availability can be limited since customers buy them quickly. We learned that there is a web ite called Reverse Wine Snob that shows the scheduled release dates of the Kirkland Signature wines throughout the calendar year. Several of these wines also are available throughout the year.

Some of the wines were repeats from our same-themed 2025 meeting, but the vintages had changed, so it was good to re-examine them.

These wines are not expensive because Costco eliminates the middleman has huge buying power. Still, the wines are made by reputable winemakers. The producer or the winemaker is displayed on the bottle. If you don’t see it, look for “bottled by” information just above the government warning. They wines were:

• 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon ,Napa Valley, $15
• 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $15
• 2022 Toscana IGT, Tuscany, $15
• 2021 Barolo DOCG, Piedmont, $20
• 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, $7
• 2024 Chardonnay, Sonoma, $8

All of them were paired with Costco food.

On February 22, 17 members of the Thomas Jefferson (VA) Chapter attended a blind tasting that focused on the individualistic sense of taste and smell as scientific explanation for how we taste.

The olfactory nerve is the shortest sensory pathway from the stimulant to the brain, suggesting that this ready access lends to immediate and detailed discernment. A single odorant could stimulate many of the possible 400 receptors leading to the complexity that is human taste and smell.

Combined with some taste buds that are said to be “supertasters.” This means that  discern and distinguish between a large number of complex odorant molecules, which initiate the process of wine tasting. Wines tasted were in the following order:

• 2019 Domaine Drouhin Petites Secondes Chardonnay, Willamette Valley, $33
• 2020 Chateau Haut Cadet Saint Emilion Grand Cru, Bordeaux, $30
• 2019 Domaine Drouhin Petites Secondes Chardonnay, Willamette Valley, $33 (served with one drop of red food coloring to make the wine appear to be a blush wine)
• 2024 Domaine de Grand Croix, Brouilly, $27 (each member was blindfolded)
• 2020 Chateau Haut Cadet Saint Emilion Grand Cru, Bordeaux, $30 (served chilled)
• 2023 Villa Thanisch Riesling Spatlese, $27 (Served chilled with and without a taste of sugar)

The City of Palms, Fort Myers (FL) Chapter met on Thursday, February 26, at the home of Gail and Bertrand Nardin for a tasting of South American wines. Eleven members tasted and scored 7 wines from Argentina and Chile.

Our hosts started with an informative slide presentation “A Journey Through South American Wine Regions: Argentina and Chile.” Meanwhile, we tasted Las Perdices “The Partridges” Extra Brut Rose, a sparkling wine from a small production winery in Mendoza, Argentina’s most notable wine region.

We learned that the winemaking styles of these two countries is shaped by their geography: Argentina has intense sun and arid conditions for concentration, while Chile uses the Pacific Coast for crispness. Argentina excels in high altitude, full-bodied high-tannin reds like Malbec, their signature grape; Chile has fresh diverse and often Old World-influenced wines, particularly their Cabernet Sauvignon and Carménère, Chile’s signature grape that is originally from Bordeaux.

Our tasting results:

White grapes

• 2023 Norton Lote Blanco Grüner Veltiner, Uco Valley, Argentina, $47 (1)
• 2022 Carmen Gran Reserva Chardonnay, Limarí Valley, Chile, $19

Red grapes

• 2022 Vino Cobos Cocodrillo Corte Cabernet Sauvignon-based red blend, Mendoza, Argentina, $30 (1)
• 2022 Maria’s Legacy Cabernet Sauvignon, Maipo Valley, Chile, $19 (2)
• 2021 Zuccardi Concreto Malbec, Uco Valley, Argentina, $37
• 2024 Carmen Gran Reserva Carménère, Colchagua Valley, Chile, $19

Our members prepared well-paired and delicious foods for us to enjoy that especially highlighted South American cuisine.

MARCH

On March 6, the Monterey (CA) Chapter visited Brosseau’s Wine Tasting Studio in Marina, California., Some 25 members and guests attended this special event, which was organized by board member Janet Torelli, a certified sommelier. Hosted by vintner Bill Brosseau, the winery shared 7 of its organic wines, including a specially chosen Syrah. The event was catered by Pacific Coast Private Chefs.

Located in the Chalone AVA of Monterey County, Brosseau Vineyard has ideal soils, benefiting from its high elevation in the crumbling granite and deep veins of limestone from the Pinnacles. Inside the winery, he showcases soil variations from our local area, highlighting how different the terroir can be – even when the vineyards are close to each other.

While Bill’s wines are made from organic grapes, he still needs to make every process in his winery organic — down to the salt in the water softener — to get the USDA stamp of approval. He created his wine studio to share his expertise and “to unite iconic vineyard sites from our special wine region, with people who are passionate about attention to detail in farming and winemaking…”

The wines were:

• 2023 Estate Chenin Blanc, $30 (1-tie)
• 2018 Estate Old Vines Chardonnay, $50
• 2023 Estate Grenache Rose, $20
• 2018 Estate Old Vines Pinot Noir, $50
• 2023 Estate Grenache, $40
• 2019 Estate Syrah, $50
• 2019 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, $50 (1-tie)

The San Diego (CA) Chapter leaped over old world wines to explore ancient wines of Greece. Michael Pavlidis led us on the journey, including a brief historical odyssey of Greek wines before guiding us on a tour of 9 offerings:

• 2024 Moropoulos Moschofilero, a dry white wine, $23
• 2024 Mentor Malagouzia, a dry white wine, $23
• 2024 Meteoro Assyritiko, a dry white wine, $23
• 2024 Raptis Agiorgitiko Rose, a semi-dry sparkling rose, $23
• 2024 Raptis Nemea Agiorgitiko, a dry red wine, $22
• 2021 Cateau Hateau Nico Lazaridi, a dry red wine (50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 10% Mavroudi), $34
• 2021 Raptis Nemea Agiorgitiko, a dry red wine, $34
• NV G.P. Hahalis Distillery Mavrodaphne, a sweet wine, $22
• NV Mentor Resin Whisper Retsina a traditional Greek wine, $12

A bonus was the Kardasi Distillary Mastic Liqueur, a liqueur with a sweet taste and unique mastic aroma, produced from Greek mastic trees, $25

The group’s favorite wines were the 2024 Moschofilero and the 2021 Agiorgitiko.

Hosted by Debbie Hess and Ron Zorn, the March 15 tasting by the Thomas Jefferson (VA) Chapter featured, “Bubbles Without Borders.” The event attended by 12 members and 2 guests offered a journey spanning 5 countries, ending and beginning in Italy, with the opportunity to explore how terroir, grape variety, and sparkling methods shape the flavor of bubbling wines around the world.

A 2024 Dr. Heidemanns-Bergweiler Riesling was the introductory complement to the 6 higher-acid offerings that followed:

• La Vostra Prosecco DOC $17
• Villa Conchi Cava Brut $18
• Arthur Metz Cuvée Prestige Crémant d’Alsace $26 (2)
• Mascota Vineyards Unanime Brut $26
• Jacqueline Leonne Méthode Champenoise Brut $19
• Albino Armani Moscato. $20 (1)

50 Shades of Grapes (NJ) Chapter held its March event once again in the beautiful and intimate setting at Wanda in Haddonfield, New Jersey.

Fourteen chapter members, hosted by Eric and Lauren Feldhake, enjoyed a perfectly paired German themed food-and-wine dinner prepared by Chef Anthony from Wanda. Accompanying the meal were:

• 2018 Dautel Pinot Sekt – Wurttemburg, $24 (welcome wine)
• 2020 Weingut Donnhoff ‘S’ Weissburgunder Nahe, $26
• 2017 Weingut Wittmann Spatburgunder Rotwein Trocken Rheinhessen, $24
• 2020 Darting Spätburgunder trocken, Pfaltz, $20
• 2020 Dr. Burklin-Wolf Riesling Wachenheimer Goldbrache P.C., $32
• 2021 Carl Loewen Riesling Thornicher Ritsch GG, $36
• 2011 St. Urbans-Hof Riesling Piesporter Goldtropfchen Auslese – Mosel, $24
• 1975 Deinhard Riesling Oestricher Doosberg Beerenauslese Eiswein – Rheingau, $220

The March tasting event for the Northampton (PA) Chapter consisted of wines costing between $30 and $80, chosen from the Chairman’s Selection wines at the Pennsylvania Wine & Spirits stores.

While many of us feel that the Chairman’s Selections offer many good wines, the challenge is that some are better than others. Doing research and then shopping in stores can be time-consuming, especially for wines in our price range.

Hosts Liz and Dave Toler did a great job of seeking out these wines. The scores tell the story; most of the wines scored in the “excellent” category per AWS scoring standards!!

• 2022 Clos Pegase Red, $30
• 2020 Long Shadows Pirouette Red Blend, $40
• 2020 Long Shadows Pedestal Merlot, $40
• 2020 Wente Vineyards Nth Degree Merlot, $35 (3)
• 2020 Clos Pegase Cabernet Sauvignon, $30 (2)
• 2019 Poggio Landi Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva, $55
• 2018 Beringer Private Reserve, $80 (1)
• 2021 Tenuta Luce Della Vite Rosso, $80

The Venice (FL) Vinos chapter held a tasting on Sunday, March 22, at Farfelau Wine Bar in downtown Venice. Sixteen members and guests tasted wines from Bodegas Catena, a winery in Argentina. Themed food from Argentina was served to complement the wines, which were:

• 2023 Alta Chardonnay, $40
• 2023 Classic Rose de la Provincia, $16
• 2023 DV Tinto Historic Red Blend, $25
• 2024 Appellation Lunlunta Malbec, $26
• 2023 High Mountain Classic Malbec, $29

The Southport NC Chapter met on Friday, March 13, at the St. James Community Center in Southport. It was hosted by co-chairs Dave and Vicki Caruso We had 96 members of our Chapter in attendance.  The theme for the evening was “Wagner Family” wines.

Our special guest speaker was Brandon Lewis, North/South Carolina Caymus Regional Manager. He provided a detailed history of the Wagner family and mapped out the vineyards where their grapes are cultivated. The attendees were provided a “personal” tasting of the Caymus/Emmolo wines. No wine ranking is provided as all wines were considered excellent.

The following wines were tasted and discussed by the membership:

• Emmolo No 7 Sparkling Wine
• 2024 Emmolo Sauvignon Blanc, Napa
• 2023 Caymus Walking Fool, Suisun Valley
• 2023 Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa
• 2020 Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon
• 2020 Caymus Nurseryman Cabernet Sauvignon

The North Wake (NC) Chapter met on March 22 at Heritage View Clubhouse in Wake Forest. We had a large crowd of 54 members and guests for a tasting of French wines, with our theme of “An Easter in Paris.”

The presenter was Laure Levesque, founder and president of Queen of Wines, a wine importer and wholesaler in Durham, North Carolina. Laure was born in France and has extensive experience with French wines. In fact, one of the wines we tasted was from her family’s vineyards.

We tasted 6 wines:, one white, one orange, one rosé, and three reds. For each, Laure provided us with considerable information about the grape, the region, the terroir, the winemaker, and the wine.

The wines represented six regions: Savoie, Languedoc-Roussillon, Provence, Beaujolais, Sancerre, and Rhone Valley. This was perhaps the most interesting and informative part of Laure’s presentation: the distinctive characteristics of these regions and their wines. The wines were:

• 2024 Altus Apremont Vieiles Vignes – Domaine Jean Perrier & Fils, Savoie, $24
• 2024 Ams Tram Gram “Pomone” – Calmel & Joseph, Languedoc-Roussillon, $24
• 2024 La Chapelle Saint Victor Rosé, Provence, $20 (3)
• 2024 Domaine Cheysson Chiroubles Le Preiurén, Beaujolais, $35
• 2022 Apud Sariacum Sancerre Rouge – Domaine Philippe Raimbault, Sancerre, $40 (1)
• 2021 Domaine des Martinelles, Rhone Valley, $80 (2)

The City of Palms, Fort Myers (FL) Chapter met on Sunday, March 22, at Linda Rakos’ home to taste wines from Washington State. Ten members tasted and scored 6 wines – 3 whites and 3 reds.  The evening began with a Ste. Michelle sparkling and our delicious well-paired foods representing the state.

Our host discussed the differences from wet, cold western Washington to the warm, dry and desert-like southeastern Washington, gave a quick tour of AVAs (Columbia Valley and its smaller AVAs: Yakima Valley, Red Mountain, Horse Heaven Hills, Walla Walla Valley and The Rocks). Vineyards are situated at a northerly latitude similar to France’s Champagne district, prompting many Washington winemakers to focus on Bordeaux-style blends.

A Cayuse Cailloux Syrah by Christophe Baron from The Rocks AVA is one of those wineries with ties to the rocky countryside in France. Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon from Drew Bledsoe, in his hometown of Walla Walla, received our highest score of the night. Our tasting results were:

White grapes

• 2021 Substance Chardonnay, Columbia Valley AVA, $14 (1)
• 2023 DeLille Chaleur Blanc, (blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon), Columbia Valley AVA, $ 32
• 2023 Long Shadows Poet’s Leap Riesling, Columbia Valley AVA, $22

Red grapes

• 2022 Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley AVA, $13 (1)
• 2017 Cayuse Cailloux VY Syrah, The Rocks Walla Walla Valley AVA, $93
• 2021 Northstar Columbia Valley Merlot, Columbia Valley AVA, $40

Unscored

• NV Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut, Columbia Valley AVA, $20
• 2022 DeLille Cellars Le Petit Doux Late Harvest Semillon, Red Mountain AVA, $42

The Lehigh Valley (PA) Chapter participated in a March Madness blind tasting—Zinfandel versus Primitivo. These grapes have similar DNA; however, Zinfandel is primarily grown in California and Primitivo primarily in Italy.

The challenge for approximately 40 members and guests was how similar or different they are, and which is superior. Joe Pugliese, our prominent Italian member, selected Primitivo wines from the Manduria region of Puglia. Kevin Campbell, our prominent chapter chair, selected Zinfandel wines mostly from the Sonoma region.

Overall, Zin was lighter in color and body with brighter fruit compared with Primitivo. Both wines had winners, as did Casa Di Italia Restaurant for our delicious meal.  Below are the participating wines.

• 2023 Turley Juvenile, 100% Zinfandel, California, $29
• 2022 Lirica, 100% Primitivo, Manduria, $20
• 2020 San Marzano Sessantanni, 100% Primitivo, Manduria, $32
• 2022 Cline Ancient Vines, 100% Zinfandel, Contra Costa $17
• 2022 Leone De Castris, 100% Primitivo, Manduria, $26 (2-tie)
• 2023 Seghesio, 100% Zinfandel, Sonoma, $22
• 2023 Ridge Three Valleys, 71% Zinfandel, Sonoma, $32
• 2019 San Marzano Riserva, 100% Primitivo, Manduria, $37 (1-tie)
• 2023 Ravenswood, 100% Zinfandel, Dry Creek, $28 (1-tie)
• 2021 Varvaglione, 100% Primitivo, Manduria, $38 (2-tie)

Also, thanks to Ann Vlot and Matt Green for continuing to coordinate our monthly BYOB events.

On March 28, 28 members and guests of the Perkiomen Valley (PA) Chapter gathered at the home of Donna Lombardo Fisher and Jeff Fisher for a Wine Mystery Theater. Attendees explored 6 wines, each brought to life by someone who offered clues by describing the wine’s personality (fruit, structure, and style) to help them guess what was in their glasses.

Accompanying each wine was a tasty dish selected to match the wine’s profile to help provide further insight into what it might be. The ‘characters’ representing the wines were:

• Salty Beachlover: Domaine de la Pépière “La Pépie” Muscadet Sevre et Maine sur Lie, $19 (1)
• Spicy diplomat: 2023 Bellview Gruner Veltliner, $19
• Sparkling surprise: NV Mumm Napa Brut Rose, $18
• Reliable friend: 2023 Pecchenino San Luigi Dogliani Dolcetto, $19 (2)
• Lively leader: 2023 Pfaffl Vom Haus Zweigelt, $17
• Bold grillmaster: 2021 Kaiken Ultra Malbec Mendoza, $18 (3)

APRIL

The April meeting of the Shallotte (NC) Chapter featured wines from Chile and Argentina, experienced by 19 members and 1 guest.

The wines served were from wineries that chapter members had actually visited in January, and included a brief summary of the excursion and some pictures.

The learning part was the oceanic Humboldt current and Andes mountains influence the vines. Interestingly, since Chile and Argentina were free from the phylloxera pest that decimated European vineyards, they have substantial holdings of old-vine vines.

We discussed thiols, which are volatile compounds that produce tropical, grapefruit, and passion-fruit aromas; stabulation, which is a technique that involves fresh grape juice stirred with its sediment at near-freezing temperatures for 1 to 2 weeks before fermentation to enhance aroma and mouth feel; and foudres, which are large, traditional wooden vat used for fermenting and aging wine.

The wines we tasted were:

• 2024 Norton Reserva Malbe, $17
• 2023 Zuccardi Q Cabernet Franc, $17
• 2024 Casa del Bosque Carmenère Gran Reserva, $18
• 2023 Zuccardi Q Malbec, $17
• 2024 Casa del Bosque Sauvignon Blanc, $15
• 2024 Casa del Bosque Chardonnay, $13