SAVE THE DATE: Traverse City to Host 2nd Annual City of Riesling (Sunday, July 26 - Monday, July 27)

What: 2nd Annual City of Riesling

Where: Traverse City, Michigan

When: Sunday, July 26, 2015 — Night of 100 Rieslings @ Clinch Park Pavilion

VIP Admission: 5-6pm | $100 per person

Includes early and complete access to the wine, food and entertainment, as well as access to visiting winemakers and sommeliers, including those items that will be available for purchase only during the main event.

General Admission: 6-10pm | $50 per person

Includes 13 tasting tickets for the Bar of 100 Rieslings, food from two stations and live entertainment, as well as access to visiting winemakers and sommeliers.

Featuring Music from The Go Rounds, from Kalamazoo. The Go Rounds are furious live act and progressive recording unit fueled by the history of its diverse lineup and collaborative spirit. Equally inspired by their record collections as the beauty of the Great Lakes State, the band explores soul music, baroque folk, art rock, country and classic rock n' roll. The four-piece will release their latest full-length record "dont go not changin" in May 2015.

Monday, July 27, 2015 — Salon Riesling @ The Franklin

An all-day symposium with sessions featuring the energy and insight of Riesling leaders from all sides of the wine trade, including curated tastings of difficult to find Rieslings from around the world.

Sessions will be held from 10:00-11:00am, 11:30am-12:30pm, 2:30-3:30pm and 4-5pm. A Rare Riesling Luncheon will take place from 12:45-2:15pm.

Cost is $50 per session; the Rare Riesling Luncheon is $100 (inclusive of tax/gratuity). Advanced registration is required, space is limited to 20 per session.

The specific session topics and presenters will be announced at the beginning of June.

History: City of Riesling is the brainchild of winemaker Sean O’Keefe of Chateau Grand Traverse and Villa Mari Vineyards; restaurateur and sommelier Amanda Danielson of Trattoria Stella and The Franklin; and wine writer and Riesling evangelist Stuart Pigott.

During its inaugural year in 2014, more than 300 people attended the festivities in Traverse City—a waterfront community recognized as the culinary capital of Michigan and the Midwest’s most active wine region, specifically for world-class Rieslings.

Why: This event features not only a diverse range of award-winning Riesling from around the world. Michigan is perfectly situated in the heart of the Great Lakes Region, which creates a cool climate environment ideal for vineyard development—especially for Riesling grapes. Combine that natural element with the talented and passionate winemakers that call this area home and you’ve crafted a winning combination. That’s why Traverse City has earned the privilege of hosting an event of this magnitude!

More Info: www.CityOfRiesling.com
www.facebook.com/CityOfRiesling
www.twitter.com/CityOfRiesling (#TCRiesling15)
www.instagram.com/CityOfRiesling

Contact: Dianna Stampfler, Promote Michigan
269-330-4228 | Dianna@PromoteMichigan.com

Record Crowds Fill DeVos Place During 7th Annual GR International Wine, Beer & Food Festival

It was a banner year for attendance at the Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival which was held November 20-22 at DeVos Place. According to Festival organizers, attendance was up nearly 10% meaning more than 18,500 individuals gathered at the largest wine and food festival in the Midwest.

In all, more than 1400 beverages were available for sampling (wine, beer, cider, mead, spirits, coffee and other specialty drinks). Nearly 20 area restaurants participated as well as countless culinary and lifestyle related exhibitors throughout the Riverfront Marketplace and RendezBREW Café. Most of the 60-plus workshops and seminars were at or beyond capacity throughout the three-day Festival as well.

“It’s all about tasting and this year’s festival took it up a notch with diverse exhibitors offering up the very best of their products,” says Dawn Baker, Festival Manager. “It was wonderful to see the excitement grow daily as people enjoyed the variety of beverages and foods featured, then learned to pair them together. This has become a true pre-holiday celebration for West Michigan and beyond.”

“The feedback I got from my group was that they loved the better signage at the booths this year and the FSU students seems more engaged and excited, which made visiting the booths much more fun,” says Lysandra French, a long-time festival attendee. “We loved that Meijer was two tickets for a great sample of food. Also loved the lobster mac and cheese, tried a new ice cream and visited the Brewers Loft. Some in my party said that the offerings were AMAZING. Kudos, this Festival get better and better every single year!”

EXHIBITOR COMMENTS:

“This year’s Wine, Beer, & Food Festival surpassed my expectations. We were ecstatic to see so many of our customers and potential customers come to look at innovation in a whole new light. Putting on a seminar to show the ways you can pair your favorite ice cream with beer and liquor was an eye opener for the audience—taking ‘thinking outside the box’ to a whole new level. The same customer who knows what it’s like to enjoy a premium craft beer made here in Michigan is the same customer who enjoys Hudsonville Ice Cream—small-batch crafted by our in-house artisans. We’ll definitely be back next year!” — Ray Sierengowski Hudsonville Ice Cream, Holland.

“Great show this weekend. We had a fun time and sold out of everything!” — Scott Hartmann, Two Scotts Barbecue, Grand Rapids.

"This being our first year at the festival gave us, as a new company, great exposure to consumers in a lot of different markets. The seminars acted as a great outlet for education as well. Both seminars we presented gave us access to over 50 people to share our brand and our story with. Over all a very well run festival."— Mark Fellwock, Coppercraft Distillery, Holland.

“AGA Marvel had a very exciting and engaging experience at this year’s show! We were very pleased at the reception of our new products. The Festival was the perfect platform to showcase the pride we take in manufacturing locally in Greenville, Michigan. AGA Marvel looks forward to another dynamic opportunity in 2015!” — Diane Devereaux, AGA Brand Manager, Greenville.

"We have always enjoyed participating in the International Wine, Beer and Food Festival, but were particularly impressed with how many new faces we encountered at the 2014 show. We loved the opportunity to share our food with so many new people, and to show the community what we have to offer." — Christian Madsen, Executive Chef, JW Marriott Grand Rapids

“We enjoyed meeting many of our fans - it has almost become an annual tradition. The really enjoyable part however was connecting with attendees that we had not met before. The Fest is one of the best opportunities we have to both educate our customers and to learn more ourselves.” — Don Coe, Black Star Farms, Suttons Bay

“Event marketing at its best. We were able to meet hundreds of new customers and visit with all of our loyal ones.” — Aaron Harr, Fenn Valley Vineyards in Fennville.

7th Annual Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Fest Returns to DeVos Place, Nov 20-22

WHAT: 7th Annual Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival

WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 20 (5-10pm) | Friday, Nov. 21 (4pm-10pm) | Saturday, Nov. 22 (Noon-10pm)

WHERE: DeVos Place, Downtown Grand Rapids. With over 80,000 square feet (nearly 2 acres) inside the elegant Steelcase Ballroom, portions of the Grand Gallery, Riverfront Overlook and the 3rd floor.

COST: $15 – Thursday (and advanced ticket sales for Friday & Saturday); $20 – Friday & Saturday.

3-Day Pass – At $40, this option allows admission each day of the Festival and is intended for those who want to get the most out of their tasting experience. Online sales end Thursday, Nov. 20 at 5pm (Box Office sales for the pass end at 10pm on Thursday, Nov. 20).

All food and beverage samples require varied amounts of sampling tickets of 50-cent denominations (sold at the Festival). We suggest guests start with at least $20 worth of tasting tickets.

WHO: This cultural event draws more than 17,000 public and trade attendees and is the largest culinary celebration in the state (and one of the premiere festivals of its kind in the Midwest). Catering to both the connoisseur who appreciates the finest things in life to the novice looking for an introduction to the culinary world, this festival delivers a grand experience that is sure to please every palette and kick off the holiday season.

NEW: RendezBREW – This rebranded expanded Coffee, Cordials and Dessert Café will be open in the Grand Gallery for the duration of the Festival. Start your Festival experience, or make it a nightcap, with unique pairings of coffee, lattes and cocktails crafted for your enjoyment with a variety of cordials, indulgent sweets and other treats.

NEW: Mobile App – Available in both the Android and Apple systems, this free app allows guests to peruse beverage lists (including notes, ratings and personalized lists), workshops/seminars, restaurant menus and also purchase admission and Pairing tickets. Download it now and plan your visit, as well as use it to navigate the Festival.

INFO: Over one hundred wineries from around the world provide samples of as many as 1200 assorted wines – including some hard to find, top shelf vintages. Also find many award-winning Michigan wines for tasting.

An increased number of distilleries, including many from Michigan, will also be showcased.

The 3rd floor Brewer’s Loft returns, showcasing beer from around Michigan, as well as national labels and imports providing tastes of their hand-crafted beverages – along with food pairings and entertainment.

The Cider House features cideries from throughout Michigan, as well as many nationally-known brands, in the Welsh Lobby on the south end of the Steelcase Ballroom.

PAIRINGS:
Take part in two special seatings (7pm Friday and Saturday) where Grower’s selections from the Champagne region of France are paired with selected cheeses, charcuterie and other small bites. Cost is $40 per person and space is limited. Reservations may be made online, or on site – space permitting.

Select restaurants partner with distinguished wineries and breweries for special Pairings – gourmet multi-course meals served on-site in a casual yet intimate “bar top” setting. Tickets are $35-$45 each and may be purchased in advance online or at the Festival on a first-come, first-served basis.

ULTIMATE DINING OPPORTUNTIES:
Additionally, chefs from the more than a dozen of the area’s top restaurants prepare and serve small plates of their culinary specialties.

SEMINARS & WORKSHOPS:
Esteemed individuals from the culinary world host demonstrations on the Meijer Food Stage. Free beverage seminars, held classroom-style in the rooms off the Grand Gallery and near the 3rd floor Brewer’s Loft, give attendees an in-depth look into the world of wine, beer and spirits. Food workshops are also offered for a unique hands-on experience.

HOLIDAY SHOPPING:
Shop the Riverfront Market for gourmet food, specialty items, wine accessories and holiday gifts including chocolates, pastas, cheeses, oils, olives, sauces, mixes, dips and more. Cash and carry or order for easy delivery.

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM:
Culinary and hospitality students from Ferris State University, the Culinary Institute of Michigan at Baker College in Muskegon, the Secchia Institute of Culinary Education at Grand Rapids Community College and Grand Valley State University work alongside industry leaders for a premier educational experience.

INFO: GRWineFestival.com | Facebook.com/GRWineFestival | @GRWineFestival (#GRWineFest14)

*Attendance at this festival is for those 21 years of age and older. ID is required for admittance.*

“null” Grand Opening Set for Fri Sept 5 in Dexter

Taphouse to Showcase Northern United Brewing’s Beer, Wine, Cider & Spirits Brands - next to Jolly Pumpkin Production Brewery

The long-anticipated opening of the null Café & Taphouse at Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales production brewery is just around the corner. Executives at Northern United Brewing Company have announced Friday, September 5 at 7pm as the Grand Opening at 2319 Bishop Circle East in Dexter.

"This tasting room has been in the works for decades,” says Ron Jeffries, Jolly Pumpkin co-founder, co-owner and Brewmaster. “We’ve always wanted to have a great place for people to enjoy the beers that we brew on-site and we’re excited to unveil this new space which will allow us to do just that.”

Designed and built using all recycled or reclaimed materials, null (which stands for “Northern United Liquid Libations”) is intended be a warm haven and comfortable environment within the 70,000-square-foot production brewery building. The taphouse will proudly feature products from Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, North Peak Brewing Co., Civilized Spirits, Old Mission Spirits, Nomad Cidery and Bonafide Wines.

NUBCo encompasses the Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, North Peak and Grizzly Peak beer brands, Civilized Spirits and Bonafide Wines, all dedicated to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor; and null Café & Taproom in Dexter.

(nl) null Café & Taphouse @ Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales - Dexter
www.nullcafe.com
www.facebook.com/null.dexter

GR International Wine, Beer & Food Festival Returns to DeVos Place for 7th Year, Nov. 20-22

The 7th Annual Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival returns to the DeVos Place Steelcase Ballroom and Grand Gallery, November 20-22. Attracting more than 17,000 consumers and industry trade last year, this is the largest festival of its kind in the Midwest and one of the premier culinary showcases in Michigan.

As a kick-off to the holiday season, this festival offers more than 1400 wines, beers, ciders, meads and spirits for sampling throughout the The Vineyard (Steelcase Ballroom), Brewer’s Loft and Cider House. More than a dozen area restaurants feature small plate samples as well as a handful of intimate “Pairing” dinners which offer three- or four-course meals prepared and served on site, along with carefully chosen wines and/or beers. A special cordials, dessert and gourmet coffee area offers an opportunity to end the day (or evening) on a sweet note.

An impressive line-up of free workshops and seminars, led by industry leaders, are held throughout the three-day event. The Riverfront Marketplace offers samples and items for purchase as you plan for the holiday season.

More information about the featured presenters, workshops, restaurants and beverage producers will be available soon. Check back to GRWineFestival.com for the most up-to-date details.

Promote Michigan Celebrates 10th Anniversary

On August 19, 2004, Dianna Stampfler left the security of her job of more than seven years to strike out on her own with PROMOTE MICHIGAN. Now, 10 years later, the one-person consulting company is going stronger than ever and racking up alliances with some of the state’s most esteemed associations, businesses and destinations – specializing in Michigan’s niche markets of culinary- and agri-tourism.

“My first client, signed two weeks to the day that I launched the business, was the Traverse Tall Ship Company,” Stampfler says. “I’m proud to say that they’re still with me. Captain Dave McGinnis was the first to believe in what I had to offer and he’s been supporting me ever since!”

Another project early on was a three-month stint with Travel Michigan, a position Stampfler says endorsed her on a statewide level and helped her get a solid foothold to move the business forward.

“I remember getting a phone call from Dave Lorenz at Travel Michigan within days after I announced Promote Michigan, asking if I was able to take on a short-term assignment,” Stampfler recalls. “During those three months, I was introduced to many statewide industry leaders and also strengthened existing relationships. Plus, having Travel Michigan in my portfolio gave me a level of credibility that I still respect and appreciate.”

Currently, Promote Michigan’s largest clients are the Michigan Brewers Guild (along with several individual breweries), ShowSpan (working specifically on the Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival; Michigan International Auto Show and Grand Rapids Boat Show), The Homestead – America’s Freshwater Resort, Porterhouse Productions and, most recently, Hudsonville Ice Cream. Stampfler is also executive director of the Kent County Lodging Association and the newly formed Michigan Craft Distillers Association.

“There are so many other businesses, communities and organizations that have trusted me with their PR needs over the years,” Stampfler says. “Sometimes it’s a small project like a news release and other times, it’s a year-long marketing and promotions campaign. I think in the past 10 years, I’ve worked with well over 50 different entities in some way or another thanks to the word-of-mouth endorsements and referrals from past and present clients.”

Networking and relationship building are the foundation of Promote Michigan. “It’s about being out and about, talking with people, hearing and sharing their stories and finding ways to integrate yourself into their promotional plans with an unwavering level of passion and excitement,” says Stampfler. “I wake up every day thankful that I get to do what I love, with colleagues who have become friends. And I get paid for it! I can’t imagine myself doing anything else.”

In May, Stampfler was appointed to the Board of Directors for the Downtown Market – Grand Rapids and is a long-standing member of the Ferris State University Hospitality Advisory Board. She is also active with the Michigan Culinary Tourism Alliance (on both a state and regional level), Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism, Michigan Agri-Tourism Association, Great Lakes Cider & Perry Association, Michigan Maple Syrup Association, United Dairy Industry of Michigan, Kent Harvest Trails, Tourism Industry Coalition of Michigan and West Michigan Tourist Association – the organization she worked at for more than seven years to hone her tourism promotional skills. She also served nine years on the Allegan County Tourist Council, including three years as its chair and served briefly with the West Michigan Film Video Alliance.

In addition to her promotional and media relations services, Stampfler is also a freelance writer and broadcaster. She is a regular contributor to Michigan BLUE Magazine and Grand Rapids Family Magazine. Her articles have also appeared in Michigan HOME & Lifestyle, West Michigan Carefree Travel Guide and Pure Michigan Travel Guide. She hosts a daily 90-second travel program on WAKV AM980; is a monthly guest with “Tourist Talk” on WGVU Public Radio in Grand Rapids, with Shelley Irwin; and is a regular guest on various radio and television programs around Michigan.

Stampfler holds a bachelor’s degree in English and Communications from Western Michigan University and in 2013, she became a Certified Tourism Ambassador (CTA). The mother of two adult children, she recently moved from her hometown of Plainwell to Traverse City – fulfilling yet another long-time dream.

Porterhouse Productions Rocks & Rolls Another Summer in Traverse City

In 2007, Sam Porter returned to his hometown of Traverse City, Michigan to make a difference. With a love of community, the arts, music and locally-centric foods and beverages, he set out to develop a series of events that would bring those passions together, for the betterment of residents and visitors to this Pure Michigan destination.

In the past seven years, Porterhouse Production and its team of employees, volunteers, business partners, community leaders and business owners have created a solid list of events which showcase all the area has to offer. The events have collectively generated millions of dollars in local economic impact by filling hotel rooms and restaurants, highlighted talented musical acts from near and far, embraced the craft beverage industry and given back to the community through charitable contributions.

This summer’s entertainment line-up includes:

July 19 — TSO @ The Village
The Traverse Symphony Orchestra is taking its show outside, to the sprawling lawns at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Under the direction of Maestro Kevin Rhodes, this show promises to be the largest orchestra gathering of the season, with 72 musicians. Attendees will also enjoy a unique culinary picnic experience, as local foods are paired with wines from the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas, throughout the evening. The program for the concert includes a “walking tour map” of both peninsulas, featuring popular landmarks geographically placed around the Commons lawn. From above, this layout creates an aerial art showcasing Michigan’s northwest Lower Peninsula. Two lighthouse galleries, featuring local photographers and artists, pays tribute to the region’s four seasons.

August 8 — An Evening with Lyle Lovett and his Large Band at Flintfields
A singer, composer and actor, Lyle Lovett has broadened the definition of American music in a career that spans 14 albums. Coupled with his gift for storytelling, the Texas-based musician fuses elements of country, swing, jazz, folk, gospel and blues in a convention-defying manner that breaks down barriers. Lovett has appeared in 13 feature films, and on stage and television. In addition to his four Grammy Awards, he was given the Americana Music Association’s inaugural Trailblazer Award, and was recently named the Texas State Musician. Combined with an enticing menu of local food, beer, and wine, guests are sure to have a memorable experience listening to one of music’s most vibrant and iconic performers.

August 9 — Cars, Eats & Beats at Flintfields
This will be a great day of celebrating hot rods, customs and vintage cars; local food, brews and wines; and 50s/60s-era music headlined by Commander Cody and the Lost Planet Airmen, along with several other noted regional bands. Guests will enjoy a day of grilling, pinstripe artists, salons doing 50s hair styles, temporary tattoos, tailpipe flame contests, vending and auto awards, all at the picturesque six-acre Flintfields complex, just east of Traverse City. Refreshing treats will also be served up from a one-of-a-kind, 1946 Ford Flathead V8 old-fashion soda jerk ice cream truck affectionately known as Curbie.

August 15 — Paella in the Park
This fifth annual culinary and music event is a collaboration among the Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula, Tent Venue and Porterhouse Productions, along with talented executive chefs who will prepare several unique recipes of Spanish paellas in 36” pans on-site. Music for the event will have a Latin flair with returning crowd favorite Grupo Aye’, a 10 piece Cuban Salsa Band, Rootstand a jamming bluegrass Michigan band, Ryan Montbleau an awarding winning R&B Artist and Spanish guitar duo Younce Guitar.

August 16 — TC SUP Waterman Challenge
The Midwest’s largest SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) event returns to the waters of Grand Traverse Bay and it’s adjacent Open Space in downtown Traverse City. The TC Waterman SUP Challenge is sanctioned by the World Paddle Association (WPA). This event includes recreational and elite races for all ages and skill levels, including an 11 mile down-winder from Bowers Harbor. Registration for the race is now open at www.TCWaterman.com.

In conjunction with the Waterman is the new Short’s BEER-B-Q! Short’s Brewing Company of Bellaire are bringing their amazing woody boat and ski bar for a tap takeover on the Open Space pier. The area will also feature local whole hog East Carolina-style BBQ, paired with TC famous Hall’s Farm Sweet Corn for a fantastic culinary experience for the whole family. Access to food during the Short’s BEER-B-Q is free and open to all ages, with meals ranging from $8 to $12. Those looking to enjoy the Short’s Boat Bar tap takeover on the bay will need a ticket for $10 in advance ($15 at the door), which includes a custom mug. Admission to the Tap Takeover is for those 21 years of age and older; ID is required for admittance.

August 22-23 — 7th Annual TC Summer Microbrew & Music Festival
Highlighting over 200 craft beers, cider, mead and wine, with a focus on those produced in Michigan, this annual festival returns to lawn of The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. The two-day event also features over 100 musicians, marching bands, food pairings and a rare and sour beer tour. Acclaimed singer-songwriter and folk rocker Brandi Carlile will headline the festival stage on Friday evening. On tour with her band, her emotionally powerful songwriting and acoustic guitar work soon is the dominant component of their sound, and they tour regularly, headlining venues and opening shows for artists like Dave Matthews, Shawn Colvin, and India.Arie.

Tent Venue is the latest project under the Porterhouse Production umbrella. This one-of-a-kind 20,000-square-foot grand event tent can be hauled and set up anywhere, offering a protective and unique environment for all kinds of events. This space age venue is created from aircraft grade aluminum trussing with fire resistant poly vinyl covering creating a unique soft sound environment for incredible sound. Clean sight lines and a Sydney Opera House feel make for an incredible sight and sound experience. The venue is made up of 4 single spans and can be configured in several forms from an enclosed “pod” for weddings, corporate events or smaller concerts up to the dramatic 4000 capacity venue featured at many of our events.

Tickets to all of the events above are available at www.MyNorthTickets.com

For more about Porterhouse Productions and its impressive schedule of events, visit PorterhouseProductions.com (www.facebook.com/porterhouseproductions | @PorterhouseProductions). For more on Tent Venue, visit TentVenue.com.

Traverse City Area Wineries Participate in Passport Program to Benefit Local Charities

Wine lovers can now enjoy some of the beautiful award-winning wineries of Northern Michigan at a discount with the Old Mission & Leelanau Winery Passport. Launched by 9&10 News, Fox 32, Fekete Knaggs & Burr Agency, and Central Insurance Companies, the passport includes exclusive discounts towards purchases at 13 local wineries. The passports are valid for 2 people and can be reused at each winery as often as desired. Any passport completed before December 31, 2014, can be exchanged through 9&10 News for a complimentary wine tote.

The passports are on sale now for only $59 on milocalwinepassport.com and directly through migreatdeals.com For each passport sold $5 will be donated to each of the following organizations equally:

*Feeding America West MI Food Bank
*Father Fred
*Tip of the Mitt Watershed
*Grand Traverse Area Literacy Council
*Traverse Bay Children's Advocacy Center

“Northern Michigan is home to beautiful, award winning wineries. We wanted to create this opportunity to support our local wineries, promote tourism, and at the same time give back to the community through charitable contributions. This passport can give locals and tourists a chance to experience more for less,” says Jennifer Gingras, VP of Sales and Digital Sales Manager of 9&10 News/Fox 32.

For a list of participating wineries or for more information visit www.milocalwinepassport.com.

Paella in the Park Returns for 5th Annual Celebration in Traverse City’s Open Space – Friday, August 15

Traverse City’s popular Paella in Park returns to the Open Space along the banks of Grand Traverse Bay, Friday, August 15. The fifth annual culinary and music event is a collaboration among the Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula, Tent Venue and Porterhouse Productions.

Paella in the Park runs from 5-10pm and feature the wines of Old Mission Peninsula offered at a custom wine bar and executive chefs who prepare several unique recipes of Spanish paellas in 36” pans on-site. Chefs will use featured wines and fresh local ingredients in their preparations. For the first time this year, patrons will be also be able to enjoy five specifically paired craft brews from Short’s Brewery.

Paella is a Valencian rich dish that originated in its modern form in the mid-19th century near Lake Albufera, a lagoon in Valencia – on the east coast of Spain. Paella in the Park is the largest Paella festival in the Midwest United States.

Music for the event will have a Latin flair with returning crowd favorite Grupo Aye’, a 10 piece Cuban Salsa Band, Rootstand a jamming bluegrass Michigan band, Ryan Montbleau an awarding winning R&B Artist and Spanish guitar duo Younce Guitar. The venue will be the unique Tent Venue Saddle Span structures offering shade and a one of a kind atmosphere in the nation.

On Saturday, August 16 – the public is invited to check out the TC Waterman SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) Challenge, the Midwest’s largest SUP event, also planned for the Open Space and waters of Grand Traverse West Bay.

Online tickets to Paella in the Park are on sale now at www.porterhouseproductions.com and www.MyNorthTickets.com. Tickets will also be available for purchase at Curbie Food Truck, located at Little Fleet and the MyNorth ticket office.

Tickets are $30 in advance or $40 at the door and include a commemorative wine glass, two (02) 4 oz. wine pour tokens, three (3) 4 oz. servings of paella and all entertainment.
Exclusive VIP packages are available for $500, which includes six (06) entrance tickets, reserved table w/linens, two (02) extra drink tokens per person (total 12 extra), as well as a private VIP festival entrance. Additional food and wine tickets will be available for purchase at the event for $3 each.

Proceeds from the event will support sustainable green event and intelligent design through non-profit Bay Area Recycling for Charities and the Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula.

Attendees are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance, as space is limited and often sell out early. This event is open to ages 21+, no exceptions. For more information on Paella in the Park, visit www.tentvenue.com.

St. Julian Named Riesling Champion at 2014 International ‘East Meets West’ Wine Competition

Vineyard & Winery Management combined two of its oldest and most established wine competitions into one by creating the first International "East Meets West" Wine Challenge, February 19-20, 2014 in Sonoma County, CA. The 2012 Reserve Riesling from Michigan-based St. Julian Winery was named “Riesling Champion” – and received one of 964 medals presented during the competition.

Along with this award, the Riesling also took home the “Best of Show” white wine and “Best of Class” – the latter requiring unanimous agreement among judges. In addition, St. Julian also brought home a “Best of Class” for Red Heron and a “Double Gold” for the Braganini Reserve Traminette.

“We are more than proud and honored to be the first Riesling Champions of the International ‘East Meets West’ Wine Challenge,” says Head Winemaker Nancie Corum-Oxley. “Michigan Riesling continues to prove that they are world-class wines. Grown in Southwest Michigan, our 2012 St. Julian Reserve Riesling is a classic semi-dry style that will impress even the most sophisticated palate.”

The Wine
The winemaking technique used to produce this wine begins in the vineyard – specifically, the Burgoyne Ridge Vineyard. With farming roots coming from Germany, the Nitz family started growing juice grapes in Southwest Michigan in the 1940s as a grower for Welch’s and home winemakers. In 1971, the farm started planting wine grape varietals. Dan Nitz, the fourth generation grower in the family, currently manages over 250 acres of juice grapes and 260 acres of wine grapes, while employing more than 20 year-round staff. As the farm continues to focus on wine grape varietals, Dan’s passion for grape growing is evident in the wines that St. Julian produces.

The grapes for the 2012 Reserve Riesling are harvested in the early morning hours, so the fruit is cool when it reaches the winery. After harvesting, the fruit is crushed and destemmed. The juice is pressed to a tank, chilled and settled for 48 hours. The juice is then racked to the jacketed fermenter tank, where the wine underwent a long, cool fermentation at 58 to 62 degrees, Fahrenheit. This process extends the fermentation, which contributions to preserving Riesling’s fresh and fruity character. A special strain of yeast was used in order to “arrest” the fermentation, meaning that cold temperatures were used to inactivate the yeast, giving the wine retained natural residual sugar.

According to Oxley, St. Julian’s 2012 Reserve Riesling is “absolutely pure in flavor, harmonious and well-proportioned in its architecture, this Riesling seems crisp and light, yet packs intense flavors of super-ripe peach, mango, lemon zest and mineral. Its vivid acidity jammed with fruit leaves a wonderful sensation on the palate creating a luscious, food-friendly style. Literally, like liquid fruit.”

This is a bright, clean wine designed to be consumed shortly after release. There is no oak aging to weigh it down. All the aging that took place in chilled stainless steel tanks before bottling to preserve the fresh fruit character.

The Competition
Since 1982, the West Coast Wine Competition has annually recognized wines produced and bottled in the West. The International Eastern Wine Competition, started in 1975, is one of the oldest and longest-running wine competitions in the nation. This year, the competitions merged into one large event.

Wines were simultaneously judged in two established regional divisions: International Eastern Wine Competition and the West Coast Wine Competition. Traditional awards were given in each division. “Best of Show” winners moved on to compete in the “East Meets West Taste Off” to see which wine was best overall. This afforded each entrant two chances to win medals: one in its own division and one in the Taste Off. A Riesling Championship was also held for Eastern wines.

“This challenge allows eastern and western wines to compete in their own right while allowing each to contend on a national scale. We've gotten great feedback from everyone involved,” said event producer and Vineyard & Winery Management magazine publisher Robert Merletti.

According to Director of Wine Competitions Debra Del Fiorentino “Keeping these established brands intact and adding a twist like the East Meets West Taste Off put an exciting spin on the challenge.”

The International Eastern division garnered 34 best of class, 25 double gold, 94 gold, 285 silver and 151 bronze medals. The West Coast division collected 18 best of class, 7 double gold, 38 gold, 179 silver and 133 bronze medals.

For over 93 years, St. Julian Wine Co. has produced award-winning products. From the first shoots of the Michigan spring through the harvest and barrel tasting of late fall, the family tradition that has flourished transforms grapes to wine, fruit to nectar, as passion and science converge bottle after bottle, case after case. St. Julian Winery is Michigan’s largest, oldest and the Midwest’s most awarded winery.

St. Julian Winery
716 S Kalamazoo Street
Paw Paw, Michigan
www.StJulian.com
www.facebook.com/stjulianwinery
www.twitter.com/stjulianwinery

Salt of the Earth Presents 2014 Michigan 'Surprise' Dinner Series

Southwest Michigan’s premier farm-to-fork eatery Salt of the Earth announces its 2014 Michigan ‘Surprise’ Dinner Series. “We love ‘playing with our food’ and beverage. Come out and have some fun with us!” says proprietor Mark Schrock. “At Salt of the Earth we are always ‘cooking in the moment’, so we thought we’d have some fun and introduce the element of the “unexpected” into these three dinners. We really enjoy working outside of the box, and we intend to push the envelope of the food and beverage experience. ” adds Executive Chef Matthew Pietsch. Space is limited and reservations are required by calling 269.561.7258.

The three events planned for winter/ spring 2014 include:

Thursday February 20- The ‘Not-Your- Average’ Wine Dinner- featuring the award winning wines and celebrated winemaker Coenraad Stassen from Brys Estate. Enjoy these sought after wines in a creative five course dinner from Chef Matthew Pietsch and the SotE culinary team. Expect the unexpected! 6:30PM $75 per person + tax and gratuity.

Thursday March 27- ‘Shorts Brewery Beer Dinner and ‘Roast’ Reunion!’ Shorts Brewing Company's mission and culture pairs perfectly with everything we love about food and hospitality! We will celebrate the best that Shorts has to offer with seasonal and perfectly crafted brews. Join our friends from Shorts, along with a Mid-West cast of guest chef alumni from Michael Symon’s ‘Roast’! 6:30PM $75 per person, plus tax & gratuity.

Thursday April 24- ‘Bubbles and Booze- a Michigan Cocktail Party’- join in the fun with Mike Laing from Mawby and M. Lawrence sparkling wine, and the good folks from Coppercraft Distillery in Holland. Enjoy imaginative cocktails, sparkling wines, and an evening full of creative bites, unexpected flavors, and lively execution from Chef Matthew and guest Chef Jesse Hahn from ‘Fork in the Road’. PLUS dueling pianos by Hugh Little and David Raffenaud!!! $60.00 per person plus tax and gratuity.

Salt of the Earth- rustic American eatery and bakery is located in a historic building in downtown Fennville, in the heart of southwest Michigan farm and orchard country. A meal at the restaurant is an authentic Midwest American rustic food experience, built from a foundation of fresh high quality seasonal ingredients from growers within a fifty-mile radius of Allegan County. Under the direction of Chef Matthew Pietsch, the SotE kitchen cooks from scratch to create dinner entrees, wood oven fired pizzas, creative soups, fresh salads, desserts, and artisan breads.

A full-service bar proudly serves Michigan craft beers, hard ciders, spirits, and wines alongside other domestic and international products. Salt of the Earth is also a popular entertainment destination presenting the finest roots musicians on the scene at weekly house concerts.

Expect a high quality destination dining experience in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Please call 269.561.7258 or visit www.saltoftheearthfennville.com for menus, current hours of operation, house concert, and event schedules.

Salt of the Earth
114 East Main Street
Fennville MI 49408
269.561.SALT (7258)
info@saltoftheearthfennville.com
www.saltoftheearthfennville.com
www.facebook.com/saltoftheearthfennville

Art, Wine & Delectables Warm the Leelanau Peninsula Night at The Homestead Resort

The Glen Arbor Art Association, The Homestead resort and the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail will again team up to offer Art From Michigan’s Wine Country on Friday, February 7, 6-8 pm at The Homestead’s Mountain Flowers Lodge. Now in its sixth year, this fun winter event kicks off Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trails’ Taste the Passion weekend. The Friday night GAAA benefit features wine from Leelanau wineries, original art exhibit and sale by local artists and a small plates menu designed by Chef Piombo.

Ticket price is $20 per person with advance reservation. Entrance fee includes one glass of wine, food stations with delectable small plates, and coffee. Additional wine is available for $4/glass or three glasses for $10. Call The Homestead, 334-5100, by February 5 to make an advanced reservation with will call ticket pick up at Mountain Flowers. At the door price is $25 per person the night of the event.

The invitational art exhibit and sale offers recent original works by Jane Batteiger, Jane Ditri, Mary Fuscaldo, Michelle Jahraus, Harriett Mittelberger, Joan Richmond, and Rodger Skinner. The artists will be on hand to discuss their work.

A portion of each ticket and painting purchase supports the Glen Arbor Art Association class scholarships, after school art, and a summer art program for migrant children. These programs provide arts opportunities for many families who would not otherwise have them.

For more information go to: www.glenarborart.org, www.thehomesteadresort.com or www.lpwines.com. Or call the GAAA office at 231-334-6112.

The Homestead is Northern Michigan’s largest waterfront resort community located in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, an area voted by viewers of ABC’s Good Morning America as the “Most Beautiful Place in America”. Along with its unmatched natural setting and miles of frontage on Lake Michigan and the Crystal River, the resort offers guest pools, tennis and golf in the summer; downhill and cross country skiing in the winter; and shops, restaurants, meeting centers and the luxurious new Spa Amira throughout all four seasons.

For more information, visit www.thehomesteadresort.com or call 231.334.5100. “Like” The Homestead on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thehomesteadmi and follow on Twitter at @TheHomesteadMI.

St. Julian Head Winemaker Nancie Corum-Oxley Honored with Purdue University's "Outstanding Food Science Award"

Nancie Corum-Oxley, the award-winning* head winemaker at St. Julian Winery in Paw Paw, will be recognized by her Alma Mater on October 10 when Purdue University presents her with an “Outstanding Food Science Award.” The award recognizes individuals who have brought significant honor to Purdue University and the Department of Food Science, and have contributed to the field of food science.

To be considered and ultimately chosen for this award, “recipients must have earned a Purdue degree or have had an extraordinary impact on the department of Food Science and have demonstrated excellence in the industry, academia, government or other endeavors related to food science as exemplified by leadership and accomplishment,” according to Dr. Suzanne Nielsen, Head of the Department of Food Science. “Your significant achievements exemplify all of the stated criteria.”

As the first professional commercial female winemaker in Michigan, Oxley has been with St. Julian for 12 years. Starting as a lab manager and enologist, she quickly moved up the ranks to Assistant Winemaker in 2003 and Associate Winemaker in 2008. She was promoted to head winemaker in 2010.

Oxley earned a Master of Science degree in Food and Agribusiness Management from Purdue University-Indiana University in West Lafayette, IN, in 2010 with the MBA portion of her degree completed at the Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business.

Purdue’s long-standing strengths in agribusiness and food science, coupled with Indiana University’s expertise in management education, delivers the best of both worlds – an industry-specific focus on current issues and food and agriculture, paired with a general MBA. Both schools have international reputations and are highly regarded for their quality programs.

In 2002, she received Bachelor of Science in Food Manufacturing Operations and double minors in Agribusiness Management and Organizational Leadership & Supervision. While at Purdue, Nancie was a member of several organizations, including Kappa Alpha Theta, Institute of Food Technologists and the American Wine Society.

During the course of her undergraduate studies, Oxley assisted enologist Dr. Richard Vine in making wine as a part of Purdue’s grape and wine research program, as well as assisting in the coordination of the esteemed Indy International Wine Competition. She completed an internship at Geyser Peak Winery in California, under the tutelage of winemaker Daryl Groom, before heading back to the Midwest in 2002 to join the team at St. Julian.

The family-owned St. Julian winery, Michigan’s oldest and longest-operating winery, was founded in 1921.

*Recent Awards for St. Julian Winery

Vineyard & Winery Management 2013 International Women’s Wine Competition (Sonoma County, CA)

Best of Class - St. Julian Sweet Nancie Sparking Traminette
Double Gold - St. Julian Sweet Nancie Sparking Traminette
Gold - 2012 Braganini Traminette Lake Michigan Shore Reserve
Gold - St. Julian White Heron Semi Sweet White
Gold - St. Julian Pinot Grigio Lake Michigan Shore Reserve
Silver - Braganini Riesling Michigan Reserve
Silver - Braganini Syrah Michigan Reserve
Silver - St. Julian Red Heron Semi Sweet Red Wine Lake Michigan Shore
Silver - St. Julian Blue Heron Lake Michigan Shore
Bronze - St. Julian Riesling Lake Michigan Shore Reserve

Michigan Wine & Spirits 2013 Competition (East Lansing, MI)

Gold - Braganini Reserve 2012 Albariño
Gold - St. Julian Solera Cream Sherry
Silver - St. Julian 2012 Reserve Late Harvest Riesling
Silver - All That Razz
Silver - St. Julian Blue Heron
Silver - St. Julian Cock of the Walk
Silver - St. Julian Sweet Nancie Sparking Traminette
Silver - St. Julian Red Heron
Bronze - Braganini Reserve 2012 Estate Bottled Pinot Noir
Bronze - Braganini Reserve 2011 Syrah
Bronze - Braganini Reserve Whole Cluster Riesling
Bronze - St. Julian 2012 Reserve Riesling White Heron
Bronze - St. Julian Founder’s White

NOTE: The Sweet Nancie Sparkling Traminette – with its flavors of peach, pineapple, and lemon zest – is named for winemaker Nancie Corum-Oxley, who also designed the label for this award-winning wine.

Summer of Salt…10 Reasons to Visit Salt of the Earth in Fennville this Summer

Since opening in August 2009, Salt of the Earth (SotE) in downtown Fennville has become one of Michigan’s most popular farm-to-table eateries – serving up the finest locally-focused cuisine paired with regional craft beverages.

Under the direction of Executive Chef Matthew Pietsch (protégé of ‘Iron Chef’ Michael Symon), Salt of the Earth – a rustic American eatery and bakery – is located the heart of southwest Michigan farm and orchard country. A meal at the restaurant is an authentic dining experience, built from a foundation of fresh high quality seasonal ingredients from growers within a 50 radius of Allegan County. The staff specializes in from-scratch techniques to create dinner entrees, wood oven fired pizzas, creative soups, fresh salads, desserts and artisan breads.

“There’s a growing interest in the farm-to-table concept,” says Pietsch, who takes pride in the number of regional growers and producers who provide him with the freshest ingredients. “More and more guests are seeking to dine and drink local product, even going as far to choose these types of restaurants over others. That just reinforces our philosophy here at Salt of the Earth.”

A full-service bar proudly serves Michigan craft beers, hard ciders, spirits, and wines alongside other domestic and international products. Salt of the Earth is also a popular entertainment destination presenting the finest roots musicians on the scene at weekly house concerts.

Why should you add Salt of the Earth to your summer travel plans? Here are 10 reasons which are meant to entice you to explore (or revisit) this quaint foodie hotspot:

1. Chef’s Garden: Now in its second year, this 40x40 garden sits adjacent to the restaurant and is growing with heirloom tomatoes, peppers, herbs and other vegetables. During the summer, these edibles will find their way into the SotE kitchen and onto the menu for guests to savor.

2. Pork! Enough said? SotE isn’t shy about its love of pigs. Sourced from Creswick Farms in Ravena, the culinary team proudly prepares the tastiest crispy confit pork belly, whole hog wood fired pizza and cider braised pork shoulder. Pork even finds its way into the SotE house bacon bread and the bacon vinaigrette on the fried brussel sprouts, as well as being an add on option for the farmer’s greens salad and the local pasture-raised grassfed beef burger.

3. Michigan Beverages: Featuring one of the region’s most impressive selections of Michigan craft beer, cider, wine and spirits – as well as signature cocktails blended with locally-grown herbs. Settle in with a Grilled Lemonade, Fenn’s Mill Fizz or Freshwater Sour and enjoy! Not sure what to order to pair with your meal? Just ask the knowledgeable bar staff for their recommendations – they won’t steer you wrong!

4. Seedy Salty Bread: All dinner guests are treated fresh baked bread at the onset of the meal – and the signature “flavor” is the SotE Seedy bread. Made in the wood fired oven, this mild sourdough is flavored with a blend of aromatic seeds – poppy, flax, sesame, onion and fennel, and topped with grey sea salt. Other popular breads include herbs & salt, rustic country French bread and roasted garlic potato. There’s even a gluten free bread option. Whole loaves are also available for purchase, while supplies last.

5. Fresh Board: The weekly features of specials – from soups and salads, shared plates, entrees and desserts – based on what is available fresh and local at the time. This menu is posted weekly on SotE’s Facebook page, at www.facebook.com/saltoftheearthfennville.

6. Palazzolo’s Gelato & Sorbet: Why not give the confit chicken wings with a scoop of mango habanero sorbet a try – a similar pairing was featured in 2011 on the Food Network’s show “Outrageous Foods”. Other unique sweet-n-spicy flavors include raspberry ghostpepper, pineapple sriracha and candied peppers. More traditional flavors like Tahitian vanilla, peanut butter honey, Nutella and milk chocolate can be served up in a bowl, in a milkshake or on a banana split. A scoop along with the house-made doughnuts would probably satisfy as well! (Note, flavors of gelato change regularly based on availability and seasonality).

7. Wood Fire Toasted S’more: Big enough for two (or more), featuring homemade marshmallow, graham cracker crumb, milk chocolate pudding and salted caramel.

8. Local Farms: More than a dozen local farms contribute to SotE’s farm-to-table menu – and it’s not uncommon to bump into these growers who are there to enjoy the fruits (or vegetables, cheeses and meats) of their labor! To find out which farms are currently sourcing, visit www.realtimefarms.com and search for Salt of the Earth.

9. Live Music: Noted as one of the top venues for local and regional artists, the intimate stage area provides a variety of entertainment on Tuesday and select Sunday evenings. The Summer Music Series runs Tuesday evenings (8-11pm). Upcoming performers include Billy Strings and Don Julin (July 2), Mulebone (July 16), Fauxgrass (July 30), George Cole and Eurocana (Aug. 13), Moxie Strings (Aug. 20) and Schrock Bros (Aug. 27).

10. Outdoor Seating: Dining al fresco is the perfect way to end a summer evening in west Michigan. Intimate seating for 2 or 4 is offered, weather permitting – with full menu service and loads of fresh air!

Salt of the Earth is open year-round, currently seven days a week: 5-10pm, Sunday through Thursday and 5-11pm on Friday and Saturday. The restaurant is just 10 miles from Saugatuck, 50 miles from Grand Rapids and 140 miles from Chicago.

Salt of the Earth
114 East Main Street
Fennville MI 49408
269-561-SALT (7258)
info@saltoftheearthfennville.com
www.saltoftheearthfennville.com
www.facebook.com/saltoftheearthfennville

Michigan's Award-Wining Left Foot Charley Winery Expands Distribution into New York

The 2011 Dry Riesling from Left Foot Charley Winery in Traverse City has been placed on the “Summer of Riesling” wine lists at Paul Grieco’s Hearth Restaurant and three Terroir Wine Bar locations throughout Manhattan. The promotion kicks off June 21 (the first day of summer) and runs through September 21 (the first day of autumn).

"We been honored to receive numerous medals and trophies in competitions for our wines over the years, but the market is the real competition and in a city with such a vibrant wine scene as New York, earning a spot with the world's best is the ultimate gold medal,” says proprietor/winemaker Bryan Ulbrich. “Having a restaurant with quality and vision like Paul Grieco's choose your wine for their list is humbling and exhilarating. Our farmers work diligently for quiet satisfaction and a splash like this is a great recognition of their close relationship with their vineyards."

Grieco created the “Summer of Riesling” concept in 2008. That year, the ONLY white wine that customers to his restaurants could get was Riesling – 30 different wines by the glass and 100 by the bottle – a radical move that has paid off handsomely. Now, more than a dozen other restaurants have jumped on board with the promotion.

With only 500 cases produced, Left Foot Charley’s 2001 Dry Riesling it is a rare find for anyone in NYC. It is being distributed by Bonhomie Wine Imports – a well respected importer and distributor of fine wines in Manhattan.

The fruit for this award-winning wine is grown in three vineyards that exemplify viticulture in Northern Michigan. Spread out along Old Mission Peninsula, Leelanau Peninsula and Antrim County, these vineyards surround the deep water of Grand Traverse Bay.

Ulbrich says he’s also in discussions with distributors in Chicago and Minnesota interested in showcasing Left Foot Charley wines. With wines that consistently sell out, many may question Ulbrich’s reasoning for looking outside of Michigan when it comes to placement.

"We are telling a story that is bigger than a single wine or economic event,” Ulbrich says. “It requires patience to make wine and grow markets. A small step like this is really about the next five to seven years, not this quarter's financial statements. We want our wine to be tasted on the real-world stage because it reflects the beauty of our land and environment. As the world gets their opportunity to taste rare Michigan wine, they will begin to seek us out and reputation will grow. Like most decisions in the winery, this is about the future. We can survive without multi-state distribution but where's the fun in that? Michigan swings above its weight and it is time to let the world know it."

With more than a dozen years of winemaking to his credit at a handful of Northern Michigan wineries, Ulbrich launched his first 200 cases of Riesling under the Left Foot Charley label in 2004. He and his wife, Jennifer, opened Northern Michigan’s first urban winery in tasting room in 2007 on the grounds of the historic Northern Michigan Asylum, now known as The Village at Grand Traverse Commons – noted as one of the largest historic re-use and re-development projects of its kind in America. Today, Left Foot Charley produces about 4000 cases of wine from small vineyards in the Grand Traverse region.

Left Foot Charley also functions as a custom crush facility, producing wine for other area wineries. Since 2004, the winery has expanded is custom case production from 170 cases to 11,000 cases in 2012. Working with 25 regional farms, Ulbrich has continued to reinvest in equipment and personnel over the years – doubling their full-time staff to seven in an effort to provide a more consistent hospitality experience for tasting room visitors.

www.LeftFootCharley.com
www.facebook.com/LeftFootCharleyWinery
www.twitter.com/LeftFootCharley

Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery Recognized at Top Wine Competitions in the US, Internationally

It’s been an exciting spring season for Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery, located on Old Mission Peninsula in Traverse City. The estate winery has been recognized in the recent weeks with top honors at some of the world’s most esteemed wine competitions – including the International Wine and Spirits Competition in London.

In London, Brys Estate was honored with a “Gold” medal for its 2011 Gewurztraminer – one of only 15 such awards presented to the U.S. The Northern Michigan winery was also among only 17 “Best of Class – Silver” medal winners for its 2011 Pinot Noir and the 2007 “Dry Ice” ice wine. Brys Estate also took two “Bronze” medals for its 2007 Artisan Cabernet Franc and their 2007 Artisan Merlot.

"This is truly an honor to receive these awards. For many winemakers, this would be the highlight of their career, but for me, it's just another example of what can be achieved by proper vineyard management and winemaking," says Brys winemaker, Coenraad Stassen.

The International Wine and Spirits Competition is one of the most prestigious wine competitions on the globe. Entries include more than 15,000 wines from the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Wines are put through a blind judging, with the winners continuing onto a chemical analysis to verify that all wines are true to varietal, provide longevity and overall health. If the wines pass the chemical analysis, they then move to London for the final judging.

In another recent competition, Brys Estate garnered three “Best of Class” awards for its 2012 Pinot Blanc, 2012 Riesling and 2011 Merlot, from among the 2000 entries at the 2013 Pacific Rim International Wine Competition, held in Orange County, CA.

"Winning a Best of Class is really a great accomplishment," says Stassen, "but winning a ‘Best of Class’ for a Merlot in California is pretty exciting!"

During the 2013 Riverside International Wine Competition, Brys Estate received “Gold” and “Best of Class” for its 2012 Pinot Blanc, as well as the “Chairman's Award” (Unanimous Gold) and “Best of Class” for its 2011 "Dry Ice" ice wine. There were more than 3500 entries in a variety of categories.

This year’s Tasters Guild International Wine Competition hosted wines from 10 countries and 28 states. Brys Estate was awarded a “Double Gold” for its 2012 Riesling and three “Gold” medals for its 2011 Pinot Noir, 2012 Pinot Blanc and 2012 Naked Chardonnay.

Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery is centrally located in the heart of the Old Mission Peninsula-situated on 80-acres with breathtaking views of the East Grand Traverse Bay-in Traverse City, Michigan. This boutique winery began with the planting of 38 acres of European vinifera grapes in 2001 and opened the tasting room in May of 2005. Using the highest quality standards, Brys hand picks its grapes and hand crafts its small batch, single vineyard, estate grown and bottled wines.

BRYS ESTATE VINEYARD & WINERY
3309 Blue Water Road • Traverse City, MI 49686
231.223.9303

www.BrysEstate.com
www.facebook.com/BrysEstate
@BrysEstate

Cherries & Grapes Online Michigan Wine Marketplace Expands and Excites

Cherries & Grapes – an online marketplace for Michigan wine, cider and specialty products – has continued to expand its products and capabilities. Cascade Winery and Burgdorf’s Winery are the latest wineries to join the online marketplace for Michigan wine. In addition to more products, Cherries & Grapes has continued to add new capabilities, including club management and a Facebook App that allows wineries and cideries to sell their products directly from their Facebook page.

“We are excited by the warm welcome that we have received from Michigan wine and cider fans,” says Michael Mikhjian, co-founder and technology lead at Cherries & Grapes. Local Michigan wine and hard cider fans will benefit from online access to their favorite wineries and cideries. If customers cannot make a trip across the state to the tasting room, they are able to easily order online and receive their delivery within a couple days.

Over the past month, Cherries & Grapes has added a number of features that help customers easily purchase wine online. “We are particularly excited about the launch of our Facebook App,” says Michael. “Our clients can extend their online store to their Facebook page, where their customers spend most of their time visiting.”

In addition to their Facebook App, Cherries & Grapes has continually improved their social experience for customers. Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter support is built-in to allow customers to share their favorite products with friends and family.

While Cherries & Grapes is designed to be a customer-centric website, it also simplifies life for Cherries & Grapes clients. “Cherries & Grapes makes selling online easy,” says Michael. “Our wineries benefit from instant age verification, shipping automation, club management and useful reporting. They realize that they can quickly start selling online without any upfront investment or on-going commitment.”

Local Michigan wineries, cideries and specialty companies that are interested in selling online can contact Cherries & Grapes at info @ cherriesandgrapes.com.

About Cherries & Grapes
Cherries & Grapes is an online marketplace of Michigan wine, cider and specialty products. Launched in 2012, as a Michigan-based start-up company, Cherries & Grapes has quickly grown to be the leader in online sales of local Michigan wine. Cherries & Grapes simplifies the process of selling online for wineries, cideries and specialty product companies.

Cherries and Grapes, LLC
info@cherriesandgrapes.com
https://cherriesandgrapes.com
http://facebook.com/cherriesandgrapes
http://twitter.com/cherriesgrapes

Salt of the Earth Plans “50-Mile Dinner Series”

Join your friends at southwest Michigan’s premier farm-to-fork eatery for a series of dinner and beverage events featuring ingredients and beverages sourced within a 50 mile radius of Salt of the Earth. The four-event series will begin in January and run through May 2013.

“This series essentially highlights what we do here every day at Salt of the Earth, bringing the best of southwest Michigan to your table on a plate or in a glass,” says proprietor Mark Schrock.

The 2013 schedule includes:

Thursday January 24 – 'Michigan Madmen' Cocktail Party with Journeyman Distillery. Travel back to the mid-century for 1960’s themed cocktails, appetizers, and multi-course dinner with SW Michigan spirit producer Journeyman Distillery. Prizes for the best-dressed Madman & Madwoman! (Cost: $60 per person, plus tax & gratuity).

Thursday March 7 – 'Welcome to the Neighborhood' Cider Dinner with Virtue Cider. Chicago based artisan hard cider producer Virtue Cider recently located to the Fennville area. Join Gregory Hall and the Virtue Cider team to learn about this exciting line of ciders, while enjoying a cider inspired five course dinner from Chef Matt Pietsch. (Cost: $65 per person, plus tax & gratuity).

Thursday April 18 – '50 Mile Michigan Brewers Guild Dinner'. Enjoy a five course dinner paired with the finest southwest Michigan craft beers selected by our staff , with commentary by Fennville resident and New Holland Brewing ‘Beervangelist’ Fred Bueltmann and other Michigan Brewers Guild leaders. (Cost: $55 per person, plus tax & gratuity).

Thursday May 16 – '50 Mile Michigan Wine Dinner'. Spend an evening with Salt of the Earth Sommelier Jeremy Dugan as we taste through a five course dinner, paired with southwest Michigan's finest wines. (Cost: $75 per person, plus tax & gratuity).

Space to each dinner is limited and reservations are required by calling 269.561.7258.

Salt of the Earth- rustic American eatery and bakery is located in a historic building in downtown Fennville, in the heart of southwest Michigan farm and orchard country. A meal at the restaurant is an authentic Midwest American rustic food experience, built from a foundation of fresh high quality seasonal ingredients from growers within a fifty-mile radius of Allegan County. Under the direction of rising star Chef Matthew Pietsch, the SotE kitchen cooks from scratch to create dinner entrees, wood oven fired pizzas, creative soups, fresh salads, desserts, and artisan breads.

A full-service bar proudly serves Michigan craft beers, hard ciders, spirits, and wines alongside other domestic and international products. Salt of the Earth is also a popular entertainment destination presenting the finest roots musicians on the scene at weekly house concerts.

Expect a high quality destination dining experience in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Please call 269.561.7258 or visit www.saltoftheearthfennville.com for menus, current hours of operation, house concert, and event schedules.

New Magazine – Flavor 616 – to Focus on West Michigan’s Hot Culinary Scene

West Michigan has garnered national attention in recent years for its thriving culinary, beverage and agricultural offerings – offering a prime foodie destination centrally located between Chicago and Detroit. Flavor 616 magazine is being introduced in January to celebrate this culture and share the stories behind the area’s top eateries and producers.

“We are extremely fortunate to have the support of some of the region’s top writers, photographers and designers who believe in what we’re doing and want to be a part of something bigger,” says CEO/Publisher Rod Glupker – who honed his experience in the publishing and culinary worlds during 4 years as magazine manager at the now defunct Food For Thought magazine. “The energy that this group of individuals brings to the table is contagious and we are so excited to see what the coming issues may bring.”

Articles in the inaugural issue include a feature of Jarred Sper of Perrin Brewing Company in Walker by Tiffany Ewigleben; a focus on Mia & Grace restaurant in Muskegon by Marla Miller; “Getting Lucky” (Auspicious Foods for the New Year) by Michelle Swift; George Aquino’s “Foodienista” take on West Michigan eats and eateries; Allie Merrick’s “My Wine Words” column; “Spicing up those Tatas” by Cindy Krzykwa; Just Can It by Missy Black; the column “Beer and Food with The Beervangelist” by Fred Bueltmann and much more.

Flavor 616 will be distributed for free, monthly, and will launch with a circulation of 10,000 copies at locations throughout Grand Rapids, Holland, Grand Haven, Muskegon and everywhere in between. It will also be available in PDF format online at www.Flavor616.com.

Left Foot Charley Winery Earns Coveted Jefferson Cup for Riesling – Seventh Hill Farm (2011)

Left Foot Charley Winery in Traverse City has recently been awarded a prestigious Jefferson Cup for its 2011 Riesling – Seven Hill Farm, Old Mission Peninsula in the “White Vinifera Wine” category. It was the only Michigan wine to make the list this year.

The 30th Annual Jefferson Cup Invitational took place in mid November in Kansas City, MO. This noted competition features wines that are pre-selected to exemplify viticultural and winemaking in America. The invited wines have all proven their excellence in competitions and tastings throughout the year, and according to organizers, are extremely deserving of the nation’s attention.

From the original 700 invited wines, came 79 which were selected as nominees for the Jefferson Cup – and only 29 wines made that final list – including LFC’s Riesling.

"Earning a Jefferson Cup for Left Foot Charley has been on my radar for years,” says owner/winemaker Bryan Ulbrich. “This was the first time we had enough wine to enter into the invitational competition.”

The grapes for the 2011 Left Foot Charley Riesling were grown by Tom Scheuerman in a small, two-acre vineyard on the Old Mission Peninsula called Seventh Hill Farm. Only 310 cases of this medium sweet Riesling were produced, and fewer than 100 cases remain. It sells for $23.

“This is an excellent example of Riesling that will age gracefully over the next decade – truly one of the great vintages for this vineyard,” Ulbrich says. “I am so proud of Tom and our cellar staff's commitment to excellence – it has been a team effort 14 years in the making. Riesling loves Michigan!"

In all, LFC submitted five wines to be judged. The 2011 Missing Spire Riesling earned a Medal of Excellence (gold equivalent), while the Blaufrankisch 2011, Pinot Blanc 2011 and Pinot Gris 2011 each received a Medal of Merit (silver equivalent). Several other Michigan wines also showed well in this esteemed competition, receiving the equivalent of gold and silver medal status).

With more than a dozen years of winemaking to his credit at a handful of Northern Michigan wineries, Ulbrich launched his first 200 cases of Riesling under the LFC label in 2004. He and his wife, Jennifer, created Northern Michigan’s first urban winery in the center of the historic Northern Michigan Asylum – now known as The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Ulbrich is quietly gathering the region’s top small vineyards and is showcasing them in the new LFC facility, which has been open since July 2007.

Left Foot Charley Winery & Tasting Room
806 Red Drive – Traverse City, MI 49684
231-995-0500

www.LeftFootCharley.com
www.facebook.com/LeftFootCharleyWinery