My guest this week is Journalist and author George Taber…the topic; one of the most important events in the evolution of the wine business in California and the world!
Centered on a small, poorly attended (only one journalist present) wine tasting event in 1976-the famous Paris tasting organized by the English bon vivant and Paris wine retailer/writer Steven Spurrier-George Taber tells the whole story first-hand (he was the journalist present!). In the process of giving all the details of the wines, the jurors, and the scores, the book actually covers the universe of contemporary wine issues, from the winemakers, both French and Californian, to the issues of wine economics and globalization. Taber begins the story with fascinating mini-biographies of the winemakers and winery owners (such as Mike Grgich, Warren Winiarski, and Jim Barrett), discusses the trials and tribulations of making their first wines, outlines each of the competition wines (California and French) in interesting detail and context, then, after describing the competition itself, follows the discussion with the chronology of the press and public reaction from the U.S. and abroad (mostly French-they were pissed).
Positing the shattering of French wine hegemony by this `momentous’ wine event, he then points the reader to the subsequent enabling of the `Globalisation of Wine’, and in the remainder of the book, takes a number of diversions that relate to this hotly discussed topic, including a chapter on six recent International Wine Stars, and others that give a (relatively) non-judgemental perspective on contemporary wine trends, wine economics, wine styles, and more wine personalities.
Very enjoyable and well written, it’s a must read for the wine enthusiast, and for anyone interested in a succinct summary of many (non-technical) contemporary wine issues.
In the second half I’ll be talking to Clos du Val Vice President of Winery and Vineyard Operations John Clews about this storied winery, (one of the producers that was envolved in the historic Paris tasting, and the current release Napa Cabernet.
Good Life Guy’s Wine of the Week:
2007 Clos du Val
Napa Cabernet Sauvignon
86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot aged for 18 months in French oak, 25% new. Characteristic of Clos Du Val’s world-class Cabernet Sauvignon since 1972, this latest vintage continues the winery’s tradition of balanced, complex and elegant wines. Deep garnet-black in color, the 2007 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon has aromas of black fruit, complex spices, and hints of toast. Rich and intense flavors of black fruit, and wood spices fill the mouth. The wine has a powerful, solid middle palate and lingering finish. Expect this Cabernet Sauvignon to age gracefully for an additional 5-10 years.
This wine has a beautiful light golden color. The 2008 version shows clove-like spice, green apple and minerality, true to the Chardonnay varietal. Although not overly rich, it has more complexity and texture than most unoaked versions thanks to low yielding Chardonnay vines grown in Russian River Valley. Enjoy with your favorite appetizers at the start of the meal or with sautéed white fish and shrimp salads! Critical acclaim: “Pale gold hue. Forward aromas of orange blossom and banana peel. Creamy flavors of peach and vanilla with a crisp, lively edge of orange zest. Lengthy, well-structured finish with a defined mineral influence.” 90 Points – The Wine News
