It will be a few years before you will be able to taste David Vergari‘s contributions to Thornton Winery. As Thornton’s new Executive Winemaker, Vergari comes aboard right at the peak of Harvest activity. David’s role now is to assess the wines that are in barrel and tank, make certain the vineyards are in good [...]
The word “ikal” means poetry in Mayan native languages and 1150 refers to the meters above sea level (about 400 ft.) where the winery sits in the majestic Andes mountains. The elevation being free of insects and mold allows Ikal to create gravity fed winemaking without pesticides. Rocky Andes mountain soil, optimal growing temperatures, and pure snow-melt water combine to produce a concentration and complexity of flavors that I found to be truly poetic in nature.
When I was invited to join seven other writers for an evening of food and wine at the Dudleys’ home, I jumped at the opportunity. I had met Chef Max Manrique several times at Dudley’s and had heard stories about his prowess in the kitchen that induced spontaneous drooling on my part.
This year I attended my first Wine Bloggers Conference. It won’t be my last. Laura Petersen from Jordan Winery did a great job archiving the event with video diaries. I’m already registered for next year’s conference in Charlottesville, VA.
So when looking for wineries outside of these areas, why not consider Pennsylvania? The most likely answer that will be given back is, “you are kidding?”
I think Europa Village is going to be a wonderful addition to the Temecula wine landscape and I look forward to their opening. Plans now are to open a Prelude Tasting Room in the early part of 2011 at Europa Village and will then offer a glimpse of what is yet to come.
Throughout the evening both Chef Francesco and his wife Filippa circulated charming everyone with their genuine warmth and hospitality. Owner Mike Rennie represented Leonesse and it appeared the entire Renzoni clan was there, continuing to celebrate Robert and Leila’s recent marriage.
Learn more about our excellent Temecula tours. Contact us today.
