Ross Sullivan
If you missed it LIVE… Click here to listen or download this show!
I love spending time with proprietors and winemakers! If you can’t do it in person, the next best thing is listening to me chatting with those who make it happen. This show will be one of those…my first guest this week is Ross Sullivan from Sullivan Vineyards and Winery. I met Ross at a private tasting here in Wichita a few months back and have been looking forward to sharing the family story.
Jim Sullivan
This family owned winery produced its first vintage in 1981 (prior to that the Sullivan’s were producing grapes for other local wineries). Sullivan was founded by the late Jim Sullivan and his wife JoAnna. Jim was a graphic design artist and worked with several well known rock bands in the 50’s and 60’s. His daughter Kelleen is an artist in her own right, mostly wine related and her pieces command hefty prices. Their initial search for land took them to many areas in California. The family finally settled on the prime Rutherford bench land which is where their vineyards and winery are located.
Today, Sullivan Vineyards & Winery remains one of the few family owned estates in Napa Valley.
Inheriting their parents’ vision, Sean, Ross, and Kelleen have combined the beauty of their unique family estate with the integrity of world-class winegrowing and professional management. The combination speaks to today’s Sullivan renaissance.
Later in the second half Marty Johnson from Johnson’s Garden Centers joins us to talk about what has become one of the most fun seasonal events here in the flat lands. It all started years ago when Marty and gang began importing Hatch Green Chile peppers from New Mexico. A few years ago they decided to host an event that would feature the growing number of Wichita Food Trucks and local breweries. It’s time for the 4th Ever “Iron Chile Head 2016!” Click the logo to get tickets and learn more at Johnson
Local food trucks and brewers have been busy creating recipes and brewing their own unique take on yummy creations using roasted Hatch Green Chile from Johnson’s Garden Center in preparation for this competition. LIVE music, the smell of roasting peppers, great food and craft beer, you can only improve on this FUN day by taking home some fresh roasted peppers.
Good Life Guy’s Wine of the Week:
2012 Sullivan Rutherford Estate Merlot, Napa Valley
Dense fruit embodies our 2012 Merlot. Raspberry and cherry aromas give the wine a sense of brightness, but complex notes of cocoa and spice let you know that this wine is not to be trifled with. Big and juicy, there is no lack of fruit with this beauty while a hint of sweet vanilla adds a sense of pleasure. Well integrated, the acidity will provide length and focus to this powerhouse of a merlot. Lay this one down for 10 years or more, as you will be able to enjoy this jewel for years to come!