June 2020 - Page 3 of 3 - Briscoe Bites

11
Jun
2020

Caymus Vineyards Dismisses Federal Lawsuit Filed Against Governor Newsom Over Alleged Unfair Treatment of Napa Wineries in Initial Reopening Plan

The following is a formal press release from Caymus Vineyards

Rutherford, Calif.—Caymus Vineyards announced today the dismissal of its May 28, 2020 lawsuit against Governor Gavin Newsom and California State Public Health Officer Sonia Angell. Filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, the lawsuit alleged unfair and disparate treatment in the state’s reopening plan for non-essential businesses. With Governor Newsom deciding to open tasting areas for all wineries, regardless of whether or not they serve food, Caymus has decided to dismiss its complaint.

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10
Jun
2020

Rutherford Ranch 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon

categories: Booze, Wine

I know what I just said about not often being in the mood for a Cabernet Sauvignon. Maybe it’s the temperament of the times, or maybe because “tis the season to rosé all day and sip white wine on the porch,” and I’m nothing if not a wine rebel. Hah. Anyway, the mood struck me for a classic Cabernet. And by “classic,” I mean a wine that is in keeping with its varietal character, in keeping with the stylistic expectations of the region—and so not fancy. Because, Friday, you know? Well, that’s when I reach for good old reliable Rutherford Ranch estate Cabernet.

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09
Jun
2020

J. Lohr 2018 Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon

categories: Booze, Wine

I was just in the mood for a Cab. That mood doesn’t strike me often, so when it does I want something deliciously reliable. Luckily I had just received a shipment of new releases from J. Lohr that included their Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon. Done deal.

P.S. I didn’t pair this wine with a burger (though that’s a fab idea). I actually paired it with a pizza (also a fab idea—especially if you like a bit of peppery heat on your pie.)

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08
Jun
2020

Emeritus Vineyards 2017 Pinot Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir

categories: Booze, Wine

Last year, I was able to tasted the 2015 vintage of this very wine. This year, I’ve been able to reconnect with Emeritus, attending their bi-monthly webinar series, specifically catered to wine professionals. President Mari Jones, along with vineyard manager Kirk Lokka and winemaker David Lattin deep dive into how and why soil, climate, and clones, along with viticultural management practices, all effect the resulting wine.

So while I obviously enjoyed the Pinot Hill Pinot Noir last year, and even had a personal kind of geek-out on their vineyard location, this year I have a whole new level of appreciation. Education, man. It does something to you…

I also want to note that I enjoyed this wine as part of my date-night-in anniversary dinner. We paired the wine with a dish we simply call “Forbes.” The close-up picture of this dish is below the wine review. PM me if you want to know what it is 😉

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06
Jun
2020

This Week’s Latest Wine Headlines: May 30—June 5

categories: News, Wine

Hello my people. I hope you are all doing well and staying safe and healthy. This last week has been a traumatic one, an exhausting one, riddled with what on the surface seems like only bad news. But I suppose the positive is witnessing and experiencing the love and support that can be found. When tragedy hits, when injustice hits, those who speak up, stand together, and promote strength, peace and community—those people are the good news right now. Let’s do our best to be the good news in our own communities shall we?