Sofitel Saigon Plaza Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary, commemorating a quarter century of Joie de Vivre in Vietnam.
Sofitel Saigon Plaza is delighted to commemorate a significant milestone this October with the celebration of its 25th anniversary.
Drawing inspiration from local Vietnamese culture and traditions while embracing life with a French zest is what the hotel successfully stands for a quarter century.
![Daniël Stork- Consul General of The Netherlands_Mario Mendis-Sofitel Saigon Plaza GM and guests](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/L-Daniel-Stork-Consul-General-of-The-Netherlands_Mario-Mendis-Sofitel-Saigon-Plaza-GM-and-guests-1-1024x683.jpg)
Daniël Stork, Consul General of The Netherlands, Mario Mendis, Sofitel Saigon Plaza GM and guests
Since its establishment in 1998, Sofitel Saigon Plaza has consistently delivered a 5-star luxury experience marked by heartfelt service and hospitality excellence in the heart of Ho Chi Minh.
Globally acclaimed through the decades, Sofitel Saigon Plaza has welcomed dignitaries and political figures, from the former French President Francois Hollande to the US Secretary of State John Kerry.
![Ambassador Lesly Benoit of Haiti performing with Jazztown](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Ambassador-Lesly-Benoit-of-Haiti-performing-with-Jazztown_2-1-1024x683.jpg)
Ambassador Lesly Benoit of Haiti performing with Jazztown
On October 5th 2023, Sofitel Saigon Plaza hosted an enchanting Anniversary Dinner at its opulent Diamond Hall in presence of Mrs Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel.
![Maud Bailly, CEO of the Sofitel, M Gallery & Emblems Worldwide](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Maud-Bailly_CEO-of-the-Sofitel-M-Gallery-Emblems-Worldwide_1-1-1-1024x683.jpg)
Maud Bailly, CEO of the Sofitel, M Gallery & Emblems Worldwide
At this extraordinary soirée, the hotel had the privilege of hosting esteemed guests, ranging from international diplomats and government officials to renowned celebrities, CEOs of prominent corporations, and dedicated Heartists (Accor team members) who have passionately served Sofitel Saigon Plaza for over two decades.
![Chef Kieko Nagae](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Chef-Kieko-Nagae_3-1-1024x683.jpg)
Chef Kieko Nagae
The honoured guests were thus invited to enjoy a sumptuous six-course dinner crafted by Michelin-star and celebrity chefs from Asia and France. This exquisite evening was topped off with spectacular performances blending these two cultures. To mark the occasion, Heartists whom are within the property since the opening have been highlighted and recognized for their exceptional commitment and remarkable work.
“Founded almost 60 years ago, Sofitel was the first French luxury hotel brand to develop an international network of hotels and resorts…
Maud Bailly
CEO of Sofitel
“…Each of the establishments now artfully blends the French art-de-vivre with the essence of the local destination, offering chic design, the best of culinary arts, and exceptional personalized service. The 25th anniversary was truly an illustration of the cultural link between France and Vietnam, exemplifying the symbolism of the Sofitel logo, which signifies the seamless blending of French and local cultures. Over these two and a half decades, we have not only celebrated the excellence of Sofitel but also the enchanting partnership of Saigon’s vibrant spirit with the elegance of French heritage. At Sofitel, we want to inspire people to celebrate life and its beauties with joy, impertinence, and, most of all, pleasure! This celebration embodies the essence of our vision, where the rich traditions of Saigon meet the sophistication of French savoir-faire, creating a world of endless delight and unforgettable moments”, commented Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel.
“It is a privilege to be part of an establishment that has redefined luxury, elegance, and service in Ho Chi Minh City. Our gratitude goes to our valued guests, passionate team, and partners who have been unwavering supports in this journey. This anniversary not only pay tribute to our past but also reaffirms our dedication to offer unforgettable experiences to our guests in the future”, said Mr. Mario Mendis, General Manager of Sofitel Saigon Plaza.
![Michelle Wee- CEO Standard Chartered Vietnam - Madame Trang Le Counsel General Daniël Stork of The Netherlands](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/L-Michelle-Wee-CEO-Standard-Chartered-Vietnam_C-Madame-Trang-Le_R-Counsel-General-Daniel-Stork-of-The-Netherlands-1-1-1024x683.jpg)
Michelle Wee- CEO Standard Chartered Vietnam – Madame Trang Le R- Counsel General Daniël Stork of The Netherlands
The festivities will continue during the 5th Saigon Gourmet Week, taking place from October 6th to 8th at Sofitel Saigon Plaza.
![Event Curator and Producer Tracie May-Wagner](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Event-Curator-and-Producer-Tracie-May-Wagner-1-1024x683.jpg)
Event Curator and Producer Tracie May-Wagner
This event promises a delightful array of culinary experiences, including immersive cooking classes, exclusive lunches and dinners, and an unforgettable brunch featuring renowned chefs.
![Phoung Nam Art Theater](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Phoung-Nam-Art-Theater_3-1-1024x683.jpg)
Phoung Nam Art Theater
The lineup includes Sébastien Voelker (French Pastry Chef), Truc Dinh (Vietnamese Chef), Shozo Tsuruhara (Japanese Chef), Victor Savall (Spanish Pastry Chef), Sakal Phoeung (French-Cambodian Chef), Keiko Nagae (French-Japanese Pastry Chef), Vuong Vo (Vietnamese Chef), Adrien Guenzi (French Chef), and French Michelin-Star Chef Thierry Renou.
Sofitel Saigon Plaza
Sofitel Saigon Plaza harmonizes the sophistication of French art de vivre with the vibrancy of local Vietnamese culture, delivering a luxury hospitality experience enriched by genuine heartfelt service. Conveniently located in a tranquil enclave on Le Duan Boulevard, Sofitel Saigon Plaza places you in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s business, cultural, and shopping district.
The hotel boasts 286 rooms and suites adorned with refined décor and deluxe amenities, a fitness center feauring advanced exercise equipment, and an outdoor swimming pool with breathtaking city views.
Sofitel Saigon Plaza also features five dining establishments serving local and French cuisine, seven polished meeting rooms, and an opulent ballroom equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, making it the ideal destination for business, leisure, meetings, and gatherings.
Sofitel Hotels & Resorts
Sofitel Hotels & Resorts is an ambassador of modern French style, culture and art-de-vivre around the world.
Established in 1964, Sofitel is the first international luxury hotel brand to originate from France, with more than 120 chic and remarkable hotels in many of the world’s most sought-after destinations. Sofitel exudes a refined and understated sense of modern luxury, always blending a touch of French elegance with the very best of the locale.
Sofitel also includes a selection of heritage luxury hotels under the Sofitel Legend banner, renowned for their timeless elegance and storied past.
Some notable hotels in the Sofitel portfolio include Sofitel Paris Le Scribe Opera, Sofitel London St James, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan, Sofitel Mexico City Reforma, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi and Sofitel Ambassador Seoul.
Sofitel is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,400 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.
sofitel.accor.com | all.accor.com | group.accor.com
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Can NYC get Somm-Approved wine from a Can? We Tasted with Kristin Olszewski from Nomadica Wines
Can NYC get Somm-Approved wine from a Can? We Tasted with Kristin Olszewski from Nomadica Wines
Sommelier Businesswoman Kristin Olszewski brings Michelin quality to Canned Wines with Nomadica Wines
Nomadica offers sparkling, rose, white, red and orange options — both canned and bag in a box.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Kristin-Our-Story.webp)
Nomadica Wines ‘s Owner Kristin Olszewski
Nomadica Wines are sourced from vineyards with responsible farming practices and winemakers who engage in low intervention wine making.
Wine-lovers can be 100% confident you’re drinking serious sommelier-approved wine.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/NomadicaWines14-1017x1024.jpg)
Nomadica Wines ‘s Owner Kristin Olszewski; Source: instagram.com/nomadica
Today’s conversation with Sommelier / Businesswoman Kristin Olszewski from Nomadica Wines has been edited for length and clarity. For the full, un-edited conversation, visit our YouTube channel here.
Joe Winger: We’re here today with Kristin Olszewski from Nomadica Wines.
What’s the most important message you want to share today with our audience?
Kristin Olszewski:
I think the biggest message that I want to get across is that everyone should be drinking more wine. That’s my mission in life to just bring consumers back to the wine category.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/NomadicaWines20-1024x1010.jpg)
Source: instagram.com/nomadica
Joe Winger:
Outstanding. And how how are you trying to get that done?
Kristin Olszewski:
I’ll give a little context on my own history and how I came here.
My undergrad degree is in sustainable agriculture and I ended up dropping out of Harvard Medical School to become a sommelier – typical journey.
I just really fell in love with wine. I worked in restaurants to pay for school and wine was always the thing that captivated my interest.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/NomadicaWines7-714x1024.jpg)
Source: instagram.com/nomadica
I feel like it’s the intersection of history, agriculture and gastronomy. And then also there’s something so fun and communal and – you’re getting a little tipsy. It’s everything.
But I spent a decade-plus in Michelin restaurants all over the country, everywhere from three Michelin stars, Saison in San Francisco, Husk in Nashville, Osteria Mozza here in LA.
When Nancy Silverton was on a Netflix show called Chef’s Table, I started noticing a different customer coming into the restaurant. Usually as a sommelier, you’re talking to a very specific demographic of people. I would say 45 plus male white wine collector. That’s my demo. And when Nancy was on Chef’s Table, young people started coming into the restaurants, a lot of women, and I noticed they didn’t want to drink wine.
They would drink tequila, beer, cocktails, like anything but wine.
That always felt like such a missed opportunity because wine, it’s the most ancient beverage. Our people have drank wine for millennia. It’s also in an age where we care about what’s natural, what’s minimally processed, what’s better for you.
Great wine is literally just grapes, yeast, water, and time, so I started digging into why aren’t you drinking wine? And I found out a few things.
One, people felt like wine wasn’t a good value. If you weren’t going to spend a lot of money on wine, you couldn’t get a great wine, which is untrue.
The other one is people feel like they needed a PhD or some level of education or knowledge in order to access wine, which, again, is not true.
I want to be people’s guide, hold their hand and walk them into the world of wine. So I started Nomadica to do that on a larger level.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/NomadicaWines10-927x1024.jpg)
Source: instagram.com/nomadica
Joe Winger:
That’s beautiful.
You mentioned two things. We’re going to go into both. Your background in Michelin restaurants. I’ve heard heavenly amazing stories. I’ve heard horror stories.
Can you share an experience and what you learned from?
Kristin Olszewski:
Everyone always asks me if I watch The Bear or not. And I’m like, no, I can’t.
Some positive stories, Michelin restaurants have changed a lot from when I started working in them. I think work has changed a lot for the positive. I remember one of my first serious jobs in a scary restaurant. You have your hair pulled back because you don’t want it to get in the food.
I had one small piece of hair hanging down above my face and the chef takes a match from the stove, lights a piece of my hair and says don’t ever have a hair hanging down in your face again.
Some of the wonderful stories are having the opportunity, especially at Mozza, you taste each bottle you open there.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/NomadicaWines8-931x1024.jpg)
Source: instagram.com/nomadica
When I was at Mozza, it was a $5 million dollar all-Italian cellar with 90 pages of the best Barolo, Brunello, Etna Rosso’s, just things that like collector’s dream about tasting.
And I feel so lucky to have tasted things like Conterno Monfortino, which is the type of wine that you want to smell for three hours before you drink it.
When you have a wine like that, it makes you realize why collectors obsessively chase bottles, there’s something so romantic and intangible, and having a wine like that, you realize you’ll never have A wine that tastes the same at any moment in time ever again.
It’s just such a lucky experience.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/NomadicaWines12-1024x1016.jpg)
Source: instagram.com/nomadica
Joe Winger:
I’m curious about how that experience inspired you to open Nomadica.
Kristin Olszewski:
My entry point into wine was always through farming. I majored in sustainable agriculture.
I was an avid farmer. I ran our community garden in college and was focused on permaculture. I lived in India and farmed for a while there.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/NomadicaWines22-896x1024.jpg)
Source: instagram.com/nomadica
And I always say great wine is made by great farmers, great wines made in the vineyard, not the cellar.
So when I was looking at starting Nomadica, that sustainability ethos, it was always my starting point, but I was really shocked when I found out how bad glass bottles are for the environment.
30% of glass is recycled in the US. The rest just goes into a landfill. It’s highly energy intensive to make, to ship, because it’s so heavy.
The fact is, most wine does not need to be in a glass bottle.
Yes, that Barolo I mentioned absolutely needs to be in a glass bottle. That needs to be aged for years before it even comes into its own.
But for a $20 – 30 bottle of wine that you’re going to pop open and drink it on a weeknight or on a not special weekend does not need to be in glass.
So that’s how we started.
Cans at 70 % reduction in carbon footprint. Our newly launched bag and box wine is almost a 90% reduction in carbon footprint.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/NomadicaWines18-877x1024.jpg)
Source: instagram.com/nomadica
Joe Winger:
I sampled your sparkling white, your white, your red and your rose, they were dangerously drinkable.
Can we talk about where the fruit is sourced from?
Kristin Olszewski:
Absolutely.
The name Nomadica is really a fun double entendre because you can take it wherever you want to go. Of course, cans and boxes can be found in places that bottles can’t.
We source our fruit from all over.
We’re truly a nomadic winery.
Our head winemaker spent time at some of the best wineries in California, like Eric Kent Cellars, which makes award winning Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and also Kosta Brown.
Before that he spent 10 years doing vineyard management in California. So through Corey, we’ve really got a handle on some of the best fruit. A lot of our wine comes from Mendocino. A lot of our grapes come from Mendocino or Lodi. I’m such a Sonoma girly. Our winery is located in Sonoma, and so I always find myself drawn back to that region.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/NomadicaWines15-1024x1010.jpg)
Source: instagram.com/nomadica
Joe Winger:
Are there any vineyards you’d recommend us touring when we come to Northern California?
Kristin Olszewski:
I think the Sonoma Coast is the best wine region in California. They’ve fought very hard to become designated as their own AVA, which is very important in terms of quality.
The oceanic influence, what we call a diurnal shift, the extreme temperature change between night and day, like Hirsch and Littorai.
I think if anyone ever wants to see proof in the pudding of what great farming can do, you need to go see Littorai.
Ted Lemon was one of the first Americans to ever be a winemaker in Burgundy and he brought all of his practices back, was one of the first people to practice biodynamic agriculture in California and really brought that style of farming onto a larger scale.
When you go visit his vineyards, it’s like teeming with life. You look next door at a conventionally farmed plot, which is just like dead and sad looking. And then you taste the wines and you’re just knocked on your butt because they’re so good.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/NomadicaWines13-1024x668.jpg)
Source: instagram.com/nomadica
Joe Winger:
Nomadica Wines has several varieties. White, Sparkling white, Rose, Red, Orange.
Can you walk us through the taste profiles of any of your favorites – what’s the aromas, what are the profiles?
Kristin Olszewski:
Something really cool about our wines is everything’s practicing organic. No pesticides, no synthetic fertilizers, all of our wines are fermented dry. Naturally zero grams of sugar per serving. They have nice fruit notes, but none of the wines are sweet.
Crushable bright flavor.
Across the gamut, our entire portfolio has a brightness and a freshness to it. All of our wines are like slightly aromatic because I love an aromatic variety, but part of the thought that we put behind the brand is that I wanted to take that sommelier curation and put it in the restaurant, on the retail shelf so that when you’re serving Nomadica at your home, at parties and the beach, 99% percent of people will love it.
I’m doing the work on the back end on blending, sourcing, creating these flavor profiles that’s really taking that wine experience, that decade plus of developing my own palette and giving it back to the consumer.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/NomadicaWines4-918x1024.jpg)
Source: instagram.com/nomadica
Joe Winger:
Are there any favorite wine and food pairings for you with your wines?
Kristin Olszewski:
I love an aperitif. Our sparkling rosé is definitely my favorite wine in our gamut. In a can you always have the perfect pour because sometimes you don’t want to open up an entire bottle of wine.
When we do that in my house, it usually gets drank. It doesn’t go back in the fridge.
Sometimes you just want a glass of sparkling. And I love that.
I love that with a charcuterie board and cheese. I also love Rose with green salads.
I think one of the best things about living where we live [Los Angeles] is we have the best produce on the planet.
I still run some wine programs in Los Angeles and I’m actually opening up a restaurant in Silver Lake next year, an Italian restaurant. Orange Wine is like the hottest trend.
I was doing the wine list at a restaurant in Hollywood called Gigi’s and I noticed I was selling more orange wine by the glass than all other colors combined, which was just mind blowing to me.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/NomadicaWines19-852x1024.jpg)
Source: instagram.com/nomadica
We made what I think is the best orange wine coming out of California.
There’s a lot of talk about natural wine, orange wine. They’re not all created equal. My winemaker and I tasted through my favorite Italian skin contact wines and decided on a really concrete flavor profile source.
My mother in law in Orange County is drinking her orange wine with her friends. So I really feel like I’ve achieved something. That with sushi is a mind blowing pairing.
Then our red. We found Teroldego growing in Northern California, which is a grape that’s indigenous to Northern Italy from the Alto Adige.
It’s really Alpine, like dark fruit, like a Zinfandel, but really refreshing and bright acidity and a little bit more tannin than a Zin [Zinfandel] has.
There’s a perception that we had to overcome about can and boxed wine. People think that it’s low quality.
Whenever I pour our red for somebody, the response is always, “Wow, oh my god, that’s so good.”
No matter your level of wine knowledge, you can see what I’m trying to do when you taste our red wines.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/NomadicaWines11-921x1024.jpg)
Source: instagram.com/nomadica
Joe Winger:
What’s next for you and Nomadica?
Kristin Olszewski:
Right now we’re in hardcore expansion mode. We were the first people to do fine wine and can, and I grew really slowly at my own pace.
I wanted to build the brand.
A lot of people just run to retail shelves and they want to be in every grocery store on the planet. I didn’t want that. I wanted to be, at the Four Seasons, at the Ritz Carlton, at music venues.
I wanted to be in places where people don’t typically expect to see wine in cans and boxes.
We are one of the highest velocity items at Whole Foods in our category.
We just launched all of our box wines at Total Wine in California, Texas, Florida, Colorado, and New York and got some really big plans for next year.
So keep your eyes peeled. People are about to see me everywhere.
That’s my goal.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/NomadicaWines3-844x1024.jpg)
Source: instagram.com/nomadica
Joe Winger:
Having a canned wine at some of these nicer hotels is a challenge.
What lesson did you learn by accomplishing that rather large challenge?
Kristin Olszewski:
That’s the best thing about how we’re positioned. Not only am I a sommelier, my VP of sales is a sommelier. My winemaker has an incredible reputation. Every person on my team comes from the wine industry and we have the best product.
When we’re sitting down and tasting with these buyers, these people that are in our industry. They recognize it. I always say taste out of a wine glass. Everything tastes better out of a wine glass. The second that they taste it, these are people who taste wine all the time and they taste a lot of bad wine.
So that has been amazing.
We’ve always had the industry behind us. It’s a huge differentiator for us. So I think it was slow build. Everything takes a lot more time than you think it will, which is I think the biggest lesson that I’ve taken away from this business over the last seven years.
But you got to build your brand first.
Joe Winger:
You seem like a deep-souled individual. Whether it’s wine or otherwise, is there an overall message that you want to share to inspire the audience?
Kristin Olszewski:
We are in a time where sustainability is more important than it ever has been. You can’t base your entire brand about it, but I think it’s an absolutely necessary component to any consumer product that’s coming out today.
One of my missions in life is to have that conversation about sustainability and have it with other brands because it needs to be convenient.
Otherwise, consumers will not buy it, care or participate or choose a sustainable option. That’s my big thing.
Joe Winger:
What are the best ways to follow your journey and to learn more about you?
Kristin Olszewski:
You can buy Nomadica online and our new rosé yuzu spritz, which is delicious at ExploreNomadica.com. And then our socials are at Nomadica on Instagram.
And if you want to follow me. I’m at Kristin__O.
The Hamptons: Culinary Sensation Tieghan Gerard Delivers on Delicious at Wölffer Estate Vineyard Harvest Dinner July 24
The Hamptons: Culinary Sensation Tieghan Gerard Delivers on Delicious and Delight In The Hamptons at Wölffer Estate Vineyard Harvest Dinner July 24
Culinary Sensation Tieghan Gerard from Half Baked Harvest delivers on delicious and delight at Wölffer Estate Vineyard Harvest Dinner July 25
Tieghan Gerard was welcomed by a crowd of excited, curious and hungry fans looking forward to a memorable dinner at a beautiful setting.
![Happy crowd at Half Baked Harvest Announce Summer Harvest](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Screenshot-2024-07-30-at-3.35.19 PM-300x244.png)
Getting a selfie with culinary star Tieghan Gerard
![Wölffer Estate Vineyard Harvest Dinner team](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Screenshot-2024-07-30-at-3.34.56 PM-300x217.png)
The Team with Wölffer Estate Vineyard Harvest Dinner
![Beautiful crowd at Wölffer Estate Vineyard Harvest Dinner](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Screenshot-2024-07-30-at-3.33.35 PM.png)
Beautiful crowd at Wölffer Estate Vineyard Harvest Dinner
![Time to eat, Wölffer Estate Vineyard Harvest Dinner](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Screenshot-2024-07-30-at-3.36.13 PM-1024x499.png)
Time to eat, Wölffer Estate Vineyard Harvest Dinner
Tieghan Gerard selected the perfect dinner menu to pair with exceptional wines
It was an enchanting evening of culinary artistry and exceptional wines at the summer’s most anticipated Hamptons event, Summer Harvest: Grilling with Roman Meets Half Baked Harvest.
Wölffer’s esteemed winemaker and partner, Roman Roth collaborated with Tieghan to create an unexpected pairing menu and special installment of his highly sought after series “Grilling With Roman.”
![Summer in a Bottle Sauvignon Blanc](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Screenshot-2024-07-30-at-3.35.10 PM.png)
Summer in a Bottle Sauvignon Blanc
Summer in a Bottle Sauvignon Blanc
Featuring the newly released Summer in a Bottle Sauvignon Blanc, among other exquisite selections, this sophisticated yet whimsical event promises an unforgettable farm-to-table menu.
![Late Harvest Chardonnay](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240725-DSC06826-576x1024.jpg)
Late Harvest Chardonnay
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Salad at Wölffer Estate Vineyard Harvest Dinner
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Proscuitto at Wölffer Estate Vineyard Harvest Dinner
![Scallops at Wölffer Estate Vineyard Harvest Dinner](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240725-DSC06775-1024x576.jpg)
Scallops at Wölffer Estate Vineyard Harvest Dinner
In celebration of the 10th anniversary of the iconic Summer in a Bottle series, the menu showcases the freshest local produce, expertly prepared and perfectly paired.
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Fun and delicious end to a night, Scallops at Wölffer Estate Vineyard Harvest Dinner
Wölffer Estate Vineyard is located at 139 Sagg Road, Sagaponack, NY 11937.
The Hamptons: Wölffer Estate Vineyard and Culinary Sensation Tieghan Gerard of Half Baked Harvest Announce Summer Harvest July 24
Hamptons: Wölffer Estate Vineyard and Culinary Sensation Tieghan Gerard of Half Baked Harvest Announce Summer Harvest July 24
Wölffer Estate Vineyard and Culinary Sensation Tieghan Gerard of Half Baked Harvest Announce Summer Harvest July 24
Prepare for an enchanting evening of culinary artistry and exceptional wines at the summer’s most anticipated Hamptons event, Summer Harvest: Grilling with Roman Meets Half Baked Harvest.
On Wednesday, July 24th at 6:30 pm, the picturesque Wölffer Estate Vineyard and NY Times #1 Bestselling cookbook author and Instagram sensation, Tieghan Gerard of Half Baked Harvest, are presenting a bountiful summer harvest experience. Wölffer’s esteemed winemaker and partner, Roman Roth collaborated with Tieghan to create an unexpected pairing menu and special installment of his highly sought after series “Grilling With Roman.”
Featuring the newly released Summer in a Bottle Sauvignon Blanc, among other exquisite selections, this sophisticated yet whimsical event promises an unforgettable farm-to-table menu. In celebration of the 10th anniversary of the iconic Summer in a Bottle series, the menu showcases the freshest local produce, expertly prepared and perfectly paired.
“I am absolutely thrilled to collaborate with Wölffer Estate Vineyard for this beautiful and inspiring event.”
Teighan Gerard
Founder of Half Baked Harvest
“I’m a huge fan of Wölffer Wines and I can’t wait to visit the Hamptons for the first time,” said Teighan Gerard, Founder of Half Baked Harvest.
“It’s going to be a magical evening of great food, fantastic wine, and wonderful company, and I can’t wait to share it with everyone!”
Do not miss this unique opportunity to indulge in an evening of great food, fine wine, and stunning surroundings.
Tickets are currently available HERE, while supplies last for $310 and include entrance, full menu and wine pairings.
This event is rain or shine.
Wölffer Estate Vineyard is located at 139 Sagg Road, Sagaponack, NY 11937.
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NYC Wine: Oltrepo Pavese shines with authentic Italian wine pairing at Harlem’s Sottocasa Pizzeria.
Oltrepo Pavese shines with authentic Italian wine pairing at Harlem’s Sottocasa Pizzeria.
Tonight some of NYC’s top wine and lifestyle writers joined the Oltrepò Pavese to talk and taste through the wines and culture of Oltrepo Pavese, the north-west Italian region of Lombardy, Italy.
A visit to Italy’s Oltrepo Pavese
Oltrepò Pavese is a wine region in the north-western Italian region of Lombardy.
The main grape varieties grown in this area are Barbera, Dolcetto, and Chardonnay. Also, they produce Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling Italico, Riesling, and Pinot Nero.
Italian Wine Personality Susannah Gold hosted tonight’s dinner along with the Oltrepo Pavese tourism team.
Taste Harlem’s Authentic Italian at Sottocasa
From their Sottocasa website:
“Located in the heart and soul of New York City—Sottocasa Harlem is owned and operated by husband and wife duo, Elena and Matteo.
With a passion and love for pizza stemming back to their native Italy, Harlem now has it’s own Napoli serving up authentic Neapolitan pizza and amore!”
Harlem’s Sottocasa Italian pizzas were a great choice as pair well with wine.
Their menu includes antipasti, pizze rosse, pizze bianche, and an impressive beer and wine selection.
We tasted through several pizza and wine pairings:
Defilippi, Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigoi DOC, Crocetta 2021
Defilippi, Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigoi DOC, Crocetta 2021
In the glass, light yellow with golden reflections.
On the nose, light floral and citrus
A heavy mouth of minerality. Refreshing, full bodied with a lingering finish.
Would pair well with seafood, salad, deli meats
Vitivinicola Vanzini Sas, Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigio DOC 2021
Vitivinicola Vanzini Sas, Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigio DOC 2021
In the glass, vibrant straw yellow
On the nose, Intense apple and pear
On mouth, well-structured, the citrus continues with vibrant pear so slowly fades
Would pair well with garden salad or white fish sharp cheese
CA Di Frara, Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigio DOC 2021
CA Di Frara, Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigio DOC 2021
In the glass, Pale, almost translucent yellow.
On the nose, a big, beautiful waft of floral.
On mouth, medium boldly, cream, chalk and minerality.
Would pair well pasta and white pizza
CA Montebello, Oltrepo Pavese DOC Pinot Nero Vinificato in Bianco 2021
CA Montebello, Oltrepo Pavese DOC Pinot Nero Vinificato in Bianco 2021
In the glass, straw yellow
On the nose, fruit and floral that builds to fresh baked bread.
On mouth, delicate with a elegant body, light minerality and floral
Would pair well light garden salad and white fish
Giovannella Fugazza, Bonarda Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC Somossa 2021
Giovannella Fugazza, Bonarda Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC Somossa 2021
In the glass, Ruby red with darker edge.
On the nose, a heavenly cloud of complex black and red berry.
On mouth, a gush of red fruit, raspberry and blackberry. Rich texture, medium body.
Would pair well with sausage, pepperoni
Losito & Guarini, Bonarda Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC, C’era Una Volta
Losito & Guarini, Bonarda Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC, C’era Una Volta
In the glass, ruby red
On the nose, red fruit the opens up spicy with black pepper
On mouth, a rounder mouth feel, with red fruit and softer tannins
Would pair well spicy meats
Dino Torti, Oltrepo Pavese DOC Barbera, Route 66, 2019
Dino Torti, Oltrepo Pavese DOC Barbera, Route 66, 2019
In the glass, brilliant ruby red
On the nose, red fruit and minerality
On mouth, big and beautiful, full body with plenty of spicy
Would pair well roasted red meat, red sauces, perfect for a meat lovers pizza
Tenuta Travaglio, Pinot Nero Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC, Pernero 2021
Tenuta Travaglio, Pinot Nero Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC, Pernero 2021
In the glass, brick red.
On the nose, wild strawberry and red berries
On mouth, notes of mushroom, medium mouthfeel, silky tannins.
Would pair well risottos and light red sauce or meat dishes like pizza.
Vitivinicola Vanzini SAS, Sangue di Guida Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC 2021
Vitivinicola Vanzini SAS, Sangue di Guida Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC 2021
In the glass, deep ruby red.
On the nose, intense ,fresh red fruit and cherry.
On mouth, sweet and velvety, with a lingering finish
Find the wines at Total Wine and visit Harlem’s Sottacasa for a great dinner.
Thank you to Susannah Gold, and Harlem’s Sottacasa for a great Italian meal
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1000 Stories Wines “Big, Bold Flavor” Pairs with your favorite dishes, check out Bourbon Barrel Aged Zinfandel
1000 Stories Wines “Big, Bold Flavor” Pairs with your favorite dishes, check out Bourbon Barrel Aged Zinfandel
At 1000 Stories Wines, they share that same bold roaming spirit, which is why each of their wines tell incredible stories of exploration and discovery.
In every bottle thy hope you’ll find journeys, encounters, people and places—stories that stoke the roaming spirit in all of us so that once your grass of wine is finished, you set out once again to create the next chapter in our stories.
Margaret Leonardi from 1000 Stories Wines
Today we’re talking with Margaret Leonardi from 1000 Stories Wines. The below conversation has been editing for length and clarity. For the full, unedited version, check out our FlavRReport YouTube channel.
Just to get to know you a little bit better, can you tell us more about what inspired you to get into the wine business?
Margaret Leonardi: I’m originally from an organic dairy farm in Northern California, so just the county north of here. We’re in Mendocino County. I’m from Humboldt County, so just the closest wine growing region from home. The wine industry is so much more glamorous and romantic than the dairy industry. I’ve been making wine since 2009. Now my whole life is the wine industry.
My husband is a winemaker too. We live in a vineyard. We’re in the middle of harvest right now. We’ve been harvesting for over a month now. We’ll harvest hopefully through Halloween.
How’s it going this year? Are the grapes looking good?
Margaret Leonardi: Pretty average yields. It’s a little later as a whole than normal harvest. Not noteworthy, but maybe a couple of weeks depending on the region, the variety. It’s tasting good. The chemistries are nice. Good acids. So far we’re happy but we’re only halfway done.
The brand is called 1,000 Stories. On your website it mentions each of your wines tell incredible stories of exploration, discovery. Where does the idea of stories come from?
Margaret Leonardi: There’s a lot of stories around how we came up with the name and how we got from point A to point B, but everyone has their own rendition, which is just ironic that it’s 1000 stories. Our consumer is adventurous, and likes to roam and wander and connect with people. So all those people, each adventure you go on, and each new connection you make, you have new stories, and you have new stories to share, and you can share our wines together.
You mentioned the word “explore”. Up in your area is Yellowstone National Park, and a thousand stories that you guys partnered with Yellowstone Forever.
Margaret Leonardi: That’s a new partnership for this year. The official non profit partner with Yellowstone, and their main focus is bison conservation. With our label, our mascot is a bison. The partnership promotes bison conservation, make sure their population is safe and healthy.
It’s a beautiful design. Tell me about how the bottle itself was created and how you decided what should be on that bottle?
Margaret Leonardi: We have three SKUs that are bourbon barrel aged. Our first is the Zinfandel, the OG of the portfolio, this came out first and then in the Bourbon Barrel Age side, we also have a Cabernet Sauvignon and a Red Blend.
Then we have an American Barrel Aged section that’s Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, so not Bourbon Barrel Aged, just American Oak. That would be used for normal winemaking, and then we have our newest corn sku, it’s a Sauvignon Blanc, and this is just stainless steel and some concrete aging.
The Bourbon barrel aged [popularity] has grown. We have customers who want more diversity, more variety. So we’ve expanded the set.
On the Zinfandel [label], we have our mascot the bison. Another noteworthy thing with this is on the Zin, because it was our first.
Each time we get bourbon barrels, we go through a 3rd party broker. So we’re not working directly with any distillers. We have a mix of the distilleries these bourbon barrels are shipping to us from, so they’re all different.
We’re filling finished Zinfandel in these barrels and then we taste each one.
Some can be really bourbon-y, really potent. A lot of fresh dill. Some can have less bourbon influence and it’s more smoky, toasty.
So we have to really craft each one. We’re tasting a bunch of lots and crafting the blend for the finished product.
That’s when we decided to put the batch number [on the bottle]. Because as a whole, the backbone of the wine tastes very similar, but there are some little minute differences. We wanted to convey that to the consumer with the batch number because you can tell [each bottle] tastes a little different.
Bourbon barrel has become very popular. How was that method chosen at your winery?
Margaret Leonardi: It was a practice from the original winemaker, the founding winemaker, Bob Blue, who just retired a couple of years ago.
We were innovating, thinking of new wine ideas, and this is a practice that he used 20 plus years ago. [Back then] French oak wine barrels were pretty pricey, like a luxury commodity to use. So he was looking at different alternatives to age his wines here at Fetzer.
He had this idea. Bourbon and whiskey barrels were cheaper.
We bought some bourbon barrels and tried it. We were like, we should bottle this, not blend this into a bigger portion. This should be its own bottle. That was in 2014, our first vintage.
I started with the company in 2015. I was here at the beginning, so I saw some of the evolution and then Bob has retired and he’s passed the torch to Sebastian and I.
Let’s talk a little bit about the different varietals. The process, the styles aromas, flavor notes.
Margaret Leonardi: The first original Zinfandel is our classic. I say classic because Zinfandel’s kind of an American grape variety, it’s very Americana. It goes with our whole spirit of the brand, and It’s what Mendocino County and Mendocino is known for.
We grow really great Zinfandel’s up here, it’s a nice and warm climate. We’ve also expanded, now we’re sourcing some of the fruit from Lodi as well, which is also a really great growing region for Zinfandel. They’re also known for their Zin.
It’s blended with some Petite Syrah. Just to give the color a little more enhancement. Some more tannin structure. We want the whole backbone of the blend to be bold. You’re supposed to match the bison. Big style, bold characteristics. We pick them when the fruit is really ripe. It’s pretty hot. Then we finish it in bourbon barrels and we can use a little bit of American oak, French oak in there too, just to give it some oak enhancement. Usually around 15 percent alcohol in the finished product.
The unique part of the Zinfandel itself is the blackberries. It’s really juicy, some cranberry and then the bourbon barrel aging process is just where you get some like dried herbs, oregano, thyme. Toffee characteristics from the toastiness of the bourbon barrel itself.
The point is to have a really strong wine. We want to have a really strong wine. We don’t want it to waft bourbon and we don’t want the bourbon to sit on top of the wine. We want them to be really integrated and just like a finish, not overwhelming or overpowering.
It’s very well balanced. Were there any challenges in finding the balance or was it pretty straightforward?
Margaret Leonardi: It’s not pretty straightforward. We wish. The barrels coming from the distillers can vary. They can be emptied the week before [and be very fresh]. They can be emptied a month [and be less fresh]. So how much has evaporated, how much has been absorbed into the wood. Those are unknown factors. So it’s a bunch of trial and error. So it’s fun, but it’s a lot of work. We want some consistency, but we want a little bit of difference.
You’ve mentioned Sebastian Donoso. Tell us about him. How the two of you balance roles.
Margaret Leonardi: He’s the winemaker for the Bourbon Barrel Aged Wines. Before we were both collaborating with Bob, it was more like a team effort. When Bob stepped down, we also had the new American Barrel Aged Pinot and Chard and the Sauvignon Blanc’s brand new.
Sebastian took the Bourbon Barrel Aged because he was working on those more, and then I took the other half. We work together.
Before we move on, I don’t want to forget the Sauvignon Blanc. Process, styles, aromas, the taste?
Margaret Leonardi: This just came out in April of this year so I’m really excited. I think it’s still working its way across the nation, but I’m really happy with this wine. I really like the way it came out and I got to make it from scratch. I made exactly what I wanted. It’s nice when you make something that you really like to drink too. The fruit that we source for this comes from the majority from the Arroyo Seco region, so down Monterey, central coast of California, which is just a really nice growing region, Bay Area influence. Warm days and then cool evenings. A little bit comes from just up here in Mendocino County. Then the rest is from Lodi.
A unique thing is it’s blended with 10% Viognier. The Viognier is an ironic blender for Sauvignon Blanc, but it’s like in the spirit of things bold, I have this Viognier that I really like. It’s really concentrated, ripened flavors. A lot of peach and nectarine flavors, so I thought it could be really interesting in a Sauvignon Blanc.
I fermented them separate and then blended this percentage in there and It’s really interesting because the Sauvignon Blanc has a little bit of grassy, grapefruit, citrus aromas,
The Viognier twist makes it almost a little floral, but you get those white peach, stone fruit flavors pop a little more because of that Viognier.
It’s all stainless steel, fermented and aged, so it has no oak contact. I do some concrete eggs. I think it enhances the texture and makes it a little more mineral-y.
Are you a foodie? Can you please suggest some really delicious dishes that pair with these bottles?
Margaret Leonardi: That is a nice thing about our portfolio expanding, because before we had the three reds. So it’s similar food pairings. Now that we’ve expanded, we can have almost a wine for any dish. The Zinfandel and all of the bourbon barrel aged wines go really great with barbecue or smoked meat, ribs, red meats. It’s a good “occasion wine”, right? If you’re going to a friend’s house for a barbecue or somewhere where you want to grab a bottle of wine, but you aren’t sure what – it’s a crowd pleaser, it’s a perfect conversation starter. Sporting events soccer games, Super Bowl, that kind of thing.
Then the Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with oysters, light sauce pastas, cream based pastas. It’s also great just appetizer wine. I think the Viognier is different. It is fun to start with it. So if you’re coming over and not sure what to open or if you’re having a dinner party, it’s like a great wine to kick off the night with.
You can explore it and then it transitions well with food, especially as it warms up a little.
Where we can find you follow and find that all this stuff both to buy as well as on social media
Margaret Leonardi: The brand as a whole is available through our website. They’re also available at any grocery stores around the whole country.
For our social media, our Instagram is 1000 Stories Wines. We have a Facebook, a YouTube, and TikTok.
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Oregon Wine: Vino Vasai Pours World-Class Pinot Noir, Super Tuscan with Unique Tasting Experience – Wine Review
Newberg Oregon’s Vino Vasai Pours World-Class Pinot Noir, Super Tuscan with Unique Tasting Experience – Wine Review
Potter’s Vineyard and Vino Vasai Wines offers a small lot collection of high quality wines and a memorable visit.
When you go wine tasting, what kind of experience do you want? Rushed? Crowded? In, out and onto the next place?
In some of the most popular wine regions in California and in Oregon, a visit can feel more like you’re walking through a theme park than being invited to enjoy a living, breathing winery.
Vino Vasai is a little (or a lot) different in many ways. For one, they really want you to have a calm, romantic, delicious experience.
They go out of their way to make it happen. How? They stagger their appointments, deliberately plan out the timing, they want conversations. They foster an environment that encourages visitors to ask questions, lots of questions. Really sharing about their world, their team and their wine.
As a result, you end up with a memorable, world-class wine experience. And we haven’t even gotten to talking about the actual wine yet.
The winery intentionally limits production, producing less than 1,000 cases annually. Varietals include estate Pinot Noir, and sourced Chardonnay, Cabernet, Merlot, Sangiovese, and Syrah from single vineyard estates in Washington.
The winery goal is “to offer the very best tasting experience in Oregon”.
We’ll Always Remember Italy
Bill and Sandy Sanchez are the winemakers and owners. Bill is an example of the mix of art and science – leveraging 30 years as a PhD Nutritionist and 15 years as a professional Potter. – a common combination seen behind successful wineries.
Owners and winemakers Bill and Sandy Sanchez
Sandy brings her Italian heritage and a lifetime of passion for Italian cuisine.
Back in 2011, they were on a visit to Italy, falling deep in love with art, Michelangelo’s work and Italian cuisine.
With Italy on their mind, just a year later they met Vineyard Proprietor Laura Volkman and struck up a dynamic partnership. Bill wanted to learn everything there was to know about Pinot Noir – from farm to bottle. Laura was happy to mentor him and ended up selling her estate to him a year later.
The rest is bottled history.
Vino Vasai Family
Potters Vineyard, translated in Italian to Vinao Vasai, is a family (some biological, some not) passionate for good food, good wine, good art and who want to make an intimate product that actually makes a personal impact.
Assistant Winemaker Consultant Art Roberts joined the team exactly for that reason, to be part of a family-run winery that makes incredible, affordable small-lot wines.
Keeping with the family vibe, Sandy (tasting room and wine club manager), and Gretchen (customer service specialist). Daughter Melinda and son Eric help with harvest, tasting room, and digital support.
The family does tractor work, vineyard management, and grape sampling along with help from several friends. The family and wine club pick fruit for their Rose’ each year. Potter’s Vineyard is truly a “Grower-Producer”.
The Vino Vasai Region
The Sanchez’s purchased their 3.5-acre estate vineyard in 2012 from Laura Volkman. Laura planted the vineyard in 2001. She sold and partnered with Bill and Sandy on the 1,000 steps of growing and making premium Oregon Pinot Noir.
They were attracted to the artisan feel of the tasting room Laura created and have since transformed it into a Clay Art Gallery. Customers visit and taste wine in a fine art gallery and vineyard setting.
The wine is made in a cooperative studio of several winemakers. Bill & Sandy make all the wine themselves, sort fruit by hand, do all the punch downs and make all decisions from primary fermentation through barrel aging in French Oak. Wines are kept separated to create Reserve, Barrel Select and House labels and are bottled one to two years after harvest.
The vineyard is certified LIVE, Salmon Safe, and Bee Safe Farming with a focus on immune health.
Vino Vasai 2019 Estate Reserve Oregon Pinot Noir, Chehalem Mountains
Vino Vasai 2019 Estate Reserve Oregon Pinot Noir, Chehalem Mountains
Curious to taste a well-loved Pinot Noir?
This is a special bottle. Let’s start with the grapes. Pommard and Dijon 777 planted at 700 feet elevation in the newly established Laurelwood District, a sub-AVA of the Chehalem Mountains and Willamette Valley AVA’s. What does this tell us? Lots of cool, wet weather creating that well-known Willamette Valley elegance.
The grapes were picked at peak ripeness during a small window of perfect timing in an otherwise very fickle harvest season. As a result: lower alcohol, great acidity, complex flavors.
They chose lees aging in new French Oak to create a very classic Oregon Pinot Noir.
Deep ruby in the glass. Pronounced black cherry on the nose. Black plum, white pepper. Medium body, medium tannin, with a long finish.
With only 98 cases produced, good luck getting your hands on this bottle. But if you can, do it.
Vino Vasai Super Tuscan 2020 Columbia
Vino Vasai Super Tuscan 2020 Columbia
When a trip to Italy inspires a bottle, everyone wants to have a taste. Their goal was to share “a taste of Italy.”
The blend is 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Sangiovese and 12% Merlot
This Super Tuscan is grown in high elevation vineyard sites in the Rattlesnake Hills AVA of Washington State.
Warm days, cool nights help the grapes ripen with complex flavors and great acidity. Aged in neutral barrels for 18 months.
Deep ruby in the glass. Fresh red cherry and red currant on the nose. Medium body, velvety tannins, black cherry and blueberry notes. Silky mouthfeel and a medium finish that holds on just long enough, playfully inviting you for the next sip.
Pairs well with any traditional Italian dishes – think lasagna, sausage, spicy meats, meat pizza. Very Tuscan, indeed
Vino Vasai Wine Club
The Wine Club has 2 tiers: B Club and M Club
Both offer discounts, specials, members only access, invitations and more.
Find the Vino Vasai wine club details here.
Visit the Vino Vasai Tasting Room
Visitors are encouraged to stroll through the vines and enjoy the hilltop view of Parrett Mountain to the East, The Oregon Coast Range to the West, and Dundee Hills to the South.
The wines are available direct from the tasting room, online at www.pottersvineyard.com or in a few local wine shops near the vineyard.
Tastings are By Appointment Only at 11am, 12:30pm, 2pm and 3:30pm.
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