Pennsylvania Wine Society

Wine Wednesday ~ Wines made from Hybrid Grapes
2021-04-14 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Wines Made from Hybrid Grapes by Marty Cook
We are all familiar with the short list of so called “Noble Grapes” that includes such favorite European or Vitis vinifera grape varieties as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Riesling. But, what about grape varieties with names such as Seyval Blanc, Chambourcin, Norton, Traminette, Vidal Blanc, and Vignoles? This latter group is comprised of Hybrid grape varieties. But, what is a “Hybrid”?
According to Wikipedia, “Hybrid grapes are grape varieties that are the product of a crossing of two or more Vitis species. This is in contrast to crossings between grape varieties of the same species.” So, a Hybrid is the crossing of two species of grapes, such as Vitis vinifera and, say, Vitis labrusca or Vitis aestivalis. A quick check on Google renders any number of possibilities for Hybrid wine grape varieties. A good source of such wines (if not your wine cellar) would be virtually any winery east of the Rockies. Curious for more on hybrid grape varieties? Check out these articles from Wine Folly and Wine Enthusiast.
So, do your best to locate a representative bottle of wine made from a Hybrid variety or from a blend of Hybrid varieties and join us for Wine Wednesday on April 14th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time on the Zoom link shown below!
And, as always, please send a photo of the front and back labels from the bottle you choose to feature and send those photos to WineCat@pa.net for inclusion in our Power Point Presentation for next Wednesday evening. We look forward to seeing you!
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Rosé All Day! with Kevin Ostrowski
2021-04-18 15:30 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
Rosé All Day! by Marty Cook
Spring and summer scream, “It is time for a pink party!” That would be “pink” in the form of Rosé wine. The popularity of Rosé wine has exploded over the past decade in something of a resurgence. True Rosé wine used to be readily available in our Fine Wine & Good Spirits stores until the advent of “blush” wines from the West Coast in the very late 1970’s and throughout the 1980’s. “Blush” is generally sweet or semi-sweet bulk wine produced such that it looks like Rosé wine; but, its likeness to Rosé stops with color and bears no resemblance in taste to true Rosé.
True Rosé is generally dry to medium-dry, is loved by both red and white wine drinkers, and seems to pair with just about every possible food. And, what’s not to like? Rosé wine is delicious! The rediscovery of true Rosé wine by American wine consumers began during their travels abroad and, upon returning Stateside, the absence of good Rosé on our retail shelves created an instant demand. There was actually a period during which this new demand applied pressure on the supply chain until producers could satisfy that need; but, in the current day, we are awash in an abundance of wonderful Rosé wines!
Join us on Sunday, April 18, 2021 at 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time as Kevin Ostrowski leads us through an hour long presentation about everything Rosé! During his presentation, Kevin will explore some of the more prominent Rosé wine growing regions as we taste their delicious wines. In addition to its origins, history, and geography of where and how Rosé wine is made, he will also highlight the wide varieties of grapes and the different winemaking methods used to produce this immensely popular genre of wine.
This event is free to join. Simply secure one or more bottles of Rosé wine in advance of “Rosé All Day!”, chill accordingly, ready your food stuffs to go with, and click on the Zoom link below on Sunday, April 18, 2021 at 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time! We look forward seeing you!
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Wine Wednesday ~ European Wines Outside France and Italy
2021-04-21 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
by Marty Cook
Similar to the way in which many of us consistently seem to buy wines made from the same 15 – 18 grapes, it seems that many of us also tend to choose our European wines primarily from France and Italy. The interesting thing is that the vast majority of European countries make wine, and a number of those countries have centuries old winemaking traditions!
Our challenge for this coming Wine Wednesday, April 21st at 7:00 p.m. is to choose a wine from Europe, anywhere other than France or Italy. The obvious fallback choices are Spain, Portugal, and Germany; but, what about Hungary, Romania, Slovenia, Switzerland, Austria and Greece? Or, maybe you can find wines from some really obscure or out-of-the-way countries, such as Israel or the Caucuses or beyond?
So, your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to research the possibilities and find a wine you can feature this coming Wednesday that has its origins in a European country other than France or Italy! And, by the way, Corsica, Sardinia, and Sicily are off limits too, as they are technically owned by either France or Italy!
As usual, please remember to photograph the front and back labels of your bottle and e-Mail them to WineCat@pa.net no later than Wednesday noon, so that they can be included in our PowerPoint slides for that evening’s get-together!
We look forward to seeing you on Wednesday, April 21st at 7:00 pm on the Zoom link below!

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Wine Wednesday ~ Wines of South America
2021-04-28 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
Wines of South America by Marty Cook
We continue on our Odyssey in pursuit of the world’s best or most interesting or least known wines. Our next installment will be “Wines of South America” and will take place on Wednesday, April 28th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time. So, find the South American wine of your choosing and join us at the appointed time! You have several wine-producing countries from which to select a wine. Will it be a Tannat from Uruguay? How about a Bonarda from Argentina? Or, there is always Carmenere from Chile! Of course, a wine from Brazil would qualify; but, even the Brazilians I know tell me that Brazil makes terrible wines. Hey? Who am I to say? Just repeating what I have been told!
Anyway, grab a bottle of wine from South America and meet with us on the Zoom link below at the appointed time this coming Wednesday, April 28th at 7:00 pm Eastern/New York time. And, as a reminder, please photograph the front and back label of the bottle you choose and e-mail it to WineCat@pa.net so that we can include it ahead of time in next Wednesday’s PowerPoint slide presentation.
We hope to see you on hand to feature your wine with the rest of the crew! We have a great time and would like to include you in our fun!
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French Wines Part I ~ Burgundy, The Rhône Valley, and Provence
2021-05-02 15:30 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
Virtual Wine Tasting ~ A Wine Tour of France – Part 1
Traversing the Wine Regions of Burgundy, The Rhône Valley, and Provence
by Marty Cook

Kevin Ostrowski will return on Sunday, May 2, 2021 at 03:30 p.m. Eastern/New York time to lead us through this first of a two-part series, as we explore France by way of its major rivers.
REGIONS for Part 1 In this session we will float down the Saône and Rhône rivers and broadly look at the wines of Chablis, the Côte d’Or, Côte Chalonnaise, Mâconnais, and Beaujolais, through the Rhône Valley and finally landing on the Mediterranean coast of Provence.
These are the oldest wine regions in France; not to mention producers of some of the BEST wines of France, and old-world styles. One day we might jump on a river boat cruise to explore this region from a warm stateroom veranda. In the meantime, we can spend a couple Sunday afternoons learning about the area, its history, its wine, and make grand plans for site visits and wines to drink when we get there.
GRAPES Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah and Grenache are the stars, as other grapes play a complementary role, in the delicious wines of these classic French regions. To join us in the merriment, simply secure one or more bottles of wine (red, white, or rosé) from any or all of the above-mentioned French wine regions: Burgundy, the Rhône Valley, or Provence.
WINE SHOPPING TIPS About the shopping – Kevin put together a wine list (because we asked) but readers should appreciate that it’s VERY difficult to go shopping on-line for everyone; given the variables of local availability, price point, personal preference, and 100’s of choices – so PLEASE note these are just some thoughts about possible wines. This PDF holds some of Kevin’s suggestions, BUT please note that his bigger message is to “shop the REGION” and find something in your desired price range that interests you. As we all know, one need not mortgage the house to find a nice bottle of wine.
So, over the next week, grab a wine or three, plan some tasty bites to pair with the wine, and tune into a great French tour via the Zoom link below. It’s Sunday, May 2, 2021 at 3:30 p.m. Eastern/New York time. We look forward to seeing you then!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Wines for Cinco de Mayo
2021-05-05 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
Wines For Cinco de Mayo by Marty Cook
Happy Cinco de Mayo! Cinco de Mayo is an annual Mexican celebration held on May 5. The date is observed to commemorate the Mexican Army’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla, on May 5, 1862. This event is not a federal holiday in Mexico and has actually become a bigger celebration in the United States than it is in all of Mexico. As I always say, “Whatever excuse you need to party!”
Although Cinco de Mayo means mucho margaritas for many, there are many wines that pair well with your favorite Mexican dishes. Some of the best wines for Cinco de Mayo, along with some Mexican dishes with which you can pair them, are suggested in great detail in the “Wine ‘Til Sold Out” blog entitled From The Vine, located at https://www.wtso.com/blog/the-best-wines-for-cinco-de-mayo/. Another excellent source for wines to consider and wines to avoid when pairing with Mexican foods is a blog entitled Betty’s Wine Musings, which can be found at https://www.bettyswinemusings.com/pairing-wine-with-cinco-de-mayo. Please check out these links or Google for “Wines for Cinco de Mayo” and you will find a wealth of information!
Please join our Cinco de Mayo celebration on Wednesday, May 5th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time at the Zoom link shown below.
And, as always, please remember to take photos of the front and back labels from the wine you plan to feature and send them to us at WineCat@pa.net by Noon on Wednesday so that they can be included in our PowerPoint slide lineup for our Cinco de Mayo Wine Wednesday!
We look forward to seeing you on Cinco de Mayo!

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Wine Wednesday ~ Australia & New Zealand Wines
2021-05-12 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
Wines of Australia and New Zealand by Marty Cook
While we are enjoying our springtime and experiencing budbreak in the Northern Hemisphere, the world “down under” is enjoying their Southern Hemisphere harvest and busily preparing their latest vintage of wines! And, although this latest vintage cannot possibly be ready for us to sample next Wednesday, there are still a number of other options available on the shelves of your local wine shop.
So, please consider joining us next week on Wednesday, May 12th at 7:00 pm Eastern/New York time for the next installment of Wine Wednesday (or, as Barry suggested last week, “Weird Wednesday”!) when we gather to share the many wine possibilities available from Australia and New Zealand. There is a lot of winemaking history in this area of the world. Australia has also had its share of difficulties in recent years with wildfires and subsequent smoke that have had a significant impact on winegrowers. Lots of things for us to discuss!
Oh, and, please remember to send a photo of your wine bottle label (front and back) and e-Mail to WineCat@pa.net for inclusion in our PowerPoint parade during our Wine Wednesday presentation.
We look forward to seeing you next Wednesday, May 12th at 7:00 pm Eastern/New York time! Click on the link below to join us then!
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French Wines Part II ~ The Loire Valley and Bordeaux
2021-05-16 15:30 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
A Wine Tour of France, Part 2 ~ The Loire Valley and Bordeaux
Vive la France! If you missed part 1, mark your calendars now so you don’t miss part 2 on Sunday, May 16th!
We continue our tour of France with Kevin Ostrowski and, during Part 2 of our series, we will explore two of France’s other major rivers that are also known for fabulous wines. The regions of the Loire River Valley are known for stately châteaus and signature wines, from Chenin Blanc to Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. Next, we are off to Bordeaux and to the Gironde, Garrone, and Dordogne Rivers for probably the most well-known region for fine wine in France. Most in the wine world can rattle off the Grand Cru’s and we will certainly highlight them and their signature blends, in addition to other delicious wines.
As a shopping aid, Kevin has again researched wines from these regions available through the PLCB system, and you may click here for a suggestions list. He’s listed wines by region AND grape Variety (for the Loire Valley) – so you can buy a wine based on its location and/or grape variety. And same as for our last tour, some wines in these areas can be EXPENSIVE – the list has a few of those (beyond most of our disposable incomes) but this is information and learning about how much one might expect to pay for what are considered the best wines. It’s nice to find that those are available in PA. And, those price points help us appreciate even more the really good ones we can find at more reasonable price points!
Please join us on Sunday, May 16th at 3:30 p.m. Eastern/New York time for another of Kevin’s fascinating tours! Zoom link information follows below.
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FREE Virtual Event ~ Wine Wednesday ~ South African Wines
2021-05-19 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
The Wines of South Africa by Marty Cook
South Africa is a relative newcomer to the American wine scene over the past three or four decades; but that region has a rich winemaking tradition that extends well into the nineteenth century. The South African wine industry is also one of the leaders in doing research on wine and winemaking. Their signature white wine (Chenin Blanc) is known as “Steen” and their signature red wine (Pinotage, a manmade cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault) was developed by South African wine researchers nearly a century ago. But that is not where their award-winning wines ends, as the terroir is suitable for many V. vinifera wine grape varieties.
Explore the many possible South African wine choices next Wednesday during our next episode of Wine Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York Time. Secure a bottle of your favorite South African wine (or ask for help at your nearby Wine & Spirits store) and share your find with us during the finest hour of the work week – PWS Wine Wednesday! Connecting is easy for you via the Zoom link shown below! Oh, and please remember to photograph the front and back labels on your bottle and e-mail those photos to WineCat@pa.net for inclusion in the Wine Wednesday PowerPoint slides!
We look forward to seeing you Wednesday at 7:00 pm Eastern/New York time! Take care!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Pinot Noir
2021-05-26 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
Pinot Noir by Marty Cook
Our next Wine Wednesday takes place on May 26th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time, and focuses on Pinot Noir, the red grape whose clusters loosely approximate the shape of a pinecone (the name is derived from the French words for pine and black). This difficult-to-grow cool climate grape gives winegrowers fits; but, as a result of their persistent efforts, Pinot Noir wine has become the world’s most popular light-bodied red wine.
The sensory characteristics of Pinot Noir are rather diverse, depending on the terroir in which it is grown, and those winegrowing regions span the globe. So, whether you prefer Pinot Noir from its native France, or Oregon, or New Zealand, or Germany, or wherever, pick up a bottle of your favorite representative Pinot Noir and join us next Wednesday, May 26th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time, to enjoy some entertaining comparisons of this amazing wine!
Oh, and please remember to take photos of the front and back labels of your bottle of Pinot Noir and send them to WineCat@pa.net for inclusion in next Wednesday night’s PowerPoint slideshow. It’s so much more fun to chat about these wines when we can visualize the labels as we discuss the merits of our wines!
Please join us on the Zoom link below. We look forward to seeing you Wednesday!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Rhône Whites & Reds
2021-06-02 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
Rhône Whites & Reds by Marty Cook

The Rhône wine region of France has been making wine for over 2000 years. The area is broken up into the Northern Rhône and the Southern Rhône, and the history and wines of the entire area is well-documented. The Northern Rhône wines are exclusively red wines made primarily from the Syrah grape, while the Southern Rhône region is known for a number of grapes and blends of both red and white wines.
Our next Wine Wednesday takes place on June 2nd at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time and will examine the many possibilities of the entire Rhône region. Surprise us with your favorite Rhône wine, or ask the Wine Specialist in your local wine and spirits shop to assist in your selection. Then, join us for an hour of sharing, learning, and engagement as we look at what this ancient winegrowing region has to offer.
Oh, and, please remember to send photos of the front and back labels of your Rhône wine to WineCat@pa.net for inclusion in our PowerPoint slide show that will appear during our Zoom session next Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. We look forward to seeing you at the link shown below!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Iberian Peninsula
2021-06-09 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
Wines of the Iberian Peninsula by Marty Cook
The Iberian Peninsula can lay claim to a rich and diverse history and culture. Home to two maritime nations that spawned many explorers and Conquistadors that, rightfully or wrongfully, settled an enormous portion of the globe in centuries past, and the destination of choice for many of today’s world travelers, both Spain and Portugal also hold sway in today’s world of wine production and wine appreciation.
There is more to wines of the Iberian Peninsula than just the regions of the Dão (Portugal) or the Rioja (Spain), and many grapes are grown throughout the many wine regions of both countries.
So, put on your own explorer’s hat and set out to conquer the Portuguese and Spanish sections of your local Wine & Spirits shop and let’s show a bit of diversity and creativity in our search for grapes other than the usual ones above. Portugal alone grows grapes from A-to-V (Alvariñho to Viosiñho). Spain has the world’s largest vineyard area, which gives it an unparalleled wealth and diversity in terms of grape varieties and wine styles: still wines, sparkling, fortified, etc. – a treasure trove from Airén to Xarello. There is so much from which to choose! Let’s see some unique wine region and varietal shopping – it will be fun to share!
Date and time for this upcoming Wine Wednesday is June 9th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York Time Zone. And, as a reminder, please shoot a photo of the front and back labels of your bottle and e-mail them to WineCat@pa.net for inclusion in our weekly Wine Wednesday PowerPoint slide show. This promises to be a very interesting installment of Wine Wednesday, not to mention “affordable”, as prices for Portuguese and Spanish wines can be very attractive!
We look forward to seeing you this coming Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York Time Zone!
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Washington State Wines: A Geology Overview and AVA Update
2021-06-13 15:30 - 17:30 (America/New_York)
by Joe Via ——
Hello everyone. This is Joe Via, and it’s been a while since I last did a virtual presentation. My next virtual tasting is scheduled on Sunday, June 13th at 3:30 p.m. Eastern/New York Time. I’m really excited, as this topic is one of my personal favorites. At a quick pace, we will be discussing Washington State’s geology, and especially its importance or connection with each wine growing area or American Viticultural Area (AVA) created by Glaciers, and Dams and Floods. Oh, my!

Click to see the Washington State AVA map, then the Columbia Valley AVA map, and also a two-page infographic and map of the Walla Walla AVA. We’ll also be pointing out the new AVA’s that have been submitted for approval. There is a lot to cover. Expect at least one and a half hours.
Because we would like everyone to have more time to locate and purchase the wines, please see my wine list recommendation for this tasting below. The focus is on L’Ecole No.41 winery from Walla Walla and because of their use of specific vineyards and AVA’s in these wines. Try to acquire at least one, maybe two or if possible, all on the list! Please note that Pennsylvania Inventories are limited.
PLCB code #83171 – L’Ecole No. 41 Chardonnay Columbia Valley 2018 – $19.99 Click for data sheet
PLCB code #83172 – L’Ecole No. 41 Merlot Columbia Valley 2017 – $24.99 Click for data sheet
PLCB code #83169 – L’Ecole No. 41 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla 2016 – $27.99 Click for data sheet
PLCB code #84868 – L’Ecole No. 41 Syrah Columbia Valley 2018 – $24.99 Click for data sheet
In 1983, L’Ecole No. 41 winery was one of the first established in Walla Walla Valley. The current owner/winemaker of L’Ecole, Marty Clubb, has been instrumental and directly involved with appellation (AVA) and vineyard development recognition with Washington State wines. I hope we can get a good turn-out for this virtual tasting. If he is able and not dealing with any winery or vineyard issues, Marty Clubb may be joining us for this tasting from Washington.
For those who want to see a few of the maps and wine details, please use the links included above to access them. These are all used in the PowerPoint presentation.
If it’s not raining, I plan to be outside for this presentation. I hope to see everyone then.
Let’s get them grills fired up!
Thank you.
Joe
Join via the below Zoom link at 3:30 p.m. Eastern/New York time on Sunday, June 13th!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Wines from Regions/Wineries You Visited
2021-06-16 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
Wines from Regions/Wineries You have Visited by Marty Cook
It is likely that all of us have visited a winery or a number of wineries in various wine regions. These explorations are tremendous fun! And, each winery and wine region introduce you to a number of wines from which to draw conclusions.
Virtually every winery makes at least one wine varietal for which it is well known, i.e., its signature wine. Perhaps they are known for both a red and a white. Beyond that, every wine region or AVA usually has a reputation for one or several grape varieties on which they have hung the collective hat of the wineries that reside within that region or AVA.
On the East Coast, one might identify Finger Lakes wineries and the wines that they produce with such grape varieties as Riesling or Cabernet Franc. Or, a visitor to Central Virginial might identify that area with the Viognier grape. Or, a region may be known for its Bordeaux-like red blends, or its cooler climate grape varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
For this coming Wine Wednesday, select a wine region or a winery that you have visited whose representative wines you particularly enjoyed. Secure a bottle of the wine that you would like to showcase during this coming Wine Wednesday and join us at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday evening at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time.
As always, please remember to photograph the front and back labels of your bottle and e-mail them to WineCat@pa.net ~ PRIOR TO Wednesday ~ for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint slide show of the wines we will taste.
We look forward to seeing you at the following Zoom link (see below) this coming Wednesday at 7:00 pm Eastern/New York time! Please join us!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Eastern American Wines (Maine to the Rockies and Michigan to Texas)
2021-06-23 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
Wine Wednesday by Marty Cook
The work week is dragging on and you are half of the way to the weekend. Wednesday, or “Hump Day”, as it is commonly called. You need a little pick-me-up. Something more than a beer, some dinner, and a sitcom. You have been practicing some form of sheltering-in-place for the past twelve months and you are about ready to scream! As the late, great Peggy Lee once sang, “Is that all there is?”, despair not! Now, when you reach your mid-week crisis and Wednesday leaves you adrift between the faint memory that was last weekend and what seems to be a mirage teasing you with the prospects of this coming weekend, help has arrived in the form of Wine Wednesday!
Wine Wednesday is the latest virtual offering from the Pennsylvania Wine Society! Join us on Zoom every Wednesday evening at 7:00 pm! The link is published in separate announcements on our PWS Facebook Page as well as in separate announcements that are sent to our eMail distribution list. The format for this new virtual offering is simple. It is casual, social, and informative. theme for that evening is included in our social media and eMail announcements. It gives all of our participants a chance to let their hair down and socialize over a glass of wine.
All details will be distributed in advance of the event each week. The important part is to remember to reserve your Wednesday evenings to join us for Wine Wednesday!

Cava - A Look at the New Laws
2021-06-27 15:30 - 17:00 UTC
CAVA: the Spanish Sparkler and Updated Winemaking Regs by Joe Via
The wine laws in Spain are changing to identify and dictate regional geography boundaries to distinguish the Cava production D.O.’s., Denominación de Origen, i.e., where the grapes are grown.
There is not just one production zone, but four. Two now also have sub-zones.
In Spanish, Cava translates to underground wine cellar. It’s also how quality sparkling wines from Spain are labeled. These quality sparkling wines go through the same process used to make Champagne in France, which is known as the Méthode Champenoise or ‘Método Tradicional’ – (Traditional Method) and is characterized by a secondary fermentation inside each bottle.
Cava has its own distinctive character due to using native grapes and also because of Spain’s much warmer climate.
Aside from using the same production method, aging or cellar times differ from Champagne that requires longer development time for some wines.
From very sweet to bone dry, Cava is produced in a range of categories and types to fit every palate.
Not all Cava is the same. Join us to discuss how Cava is produced, grape varieties used, and the regional differences. The three wines selected, and available in the Pennsylvania Fine Wine and Good Spirits Stores are:

PLCB Code #82105 – Black Elk Travitana Cava (Requena D.O.P.)

Non-Vintage – $12.99

PLCB Code #83514 – Sokatira Brut Rosé

Non-vintage – $15.99

PLCB Code #82209 – Castellroig Brut Reserva Corpinnat

Non-Vintage – $14.99
Please join us on Sunday, June 27th at 3:30 p.m. Eastern/New York time at the Zoom link below to taste some great Cava and learn about the story behind those great sparklers! Zoom information follows below.

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Wine Wednesday ~ "Summertime Sippers"
2021-06-30 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)

Wine Wednesday ~ Burgundy Whites and Reds
2021-07-07 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
———-by Marty Cook———-
Burgundy. Thought of as a color. Also synonymous with a wine. Burgundy is, first and foremost, a place. Located in France, Burgundy is arguably the most significant wine-growing region in the world. Renowned for its highly prized red wines made primarily from Pinot Noir, Burgundy (the place) also encompasses a region in its southern tip known as Beaujolais where red wines are made from the Gamay grape. And, Burgundy is equally as renowned for its incredible white wines made principally from the Chardonnay grape, although the “other” lesser-known but cold-hearty white grape (Aligoté) is also employed by Burgundians to make a light, citrusy white wine.
This event, scheduled for this coming Wednesday, July 7th at 7:00 p.m., is not meant to be an in-depth study of the wines of Burgundy. That would require an entire course spanning many hours of exploration. Rather, this program is meant for its participants to experience a little bit of Burgundy and some of its many wines as represented by the many places within the Burgundy region where perhaps the best wines the world knows are produced.
Please secure a bottle of your choosing of either a Burgundian red or white (or, both if you must!) and join us on Wednesday, July 7th at 7:00 p.m. to explore, discuss, and share what you have learned in your exploration of the Burgundy region!
And, just a reminder to shoot a photo of the front and back labels of your bottle and send as e-mail attachments please by 11 p.m., Tuesday, July 6th, to WineCat@pa.net for inclusion in our PowerPoint slide show for this coming Wednesday evening. We look forward to seeing you then!
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Cool Australia
2021-07-11 15:30 - 17:00 UTC
Cool Australia (Cooler Climate Australian Wines) by Marty Cook
Australia. A single nation island Continent. Vast, mysterious, unique, and hot. Much of the interior of Australia is arid, desert land. The continental heat index is further exacerbated by the proximity of Australia to the hole in the atmospheric ozone layer, although that trend has been reversing. Australia nonetheless remains relatively hot.
Australia is also a significant wine producing nation. The country has a rich wine-growing tradition that stems back to the Nineteenth Century. The first wine that generally comes to mind when thinking of Australian wine production is Shiraz, which grows well in hotter regions. The flip side in all of this is that there are cooler climate areas in Australia’s coastal regions. These cooler climate regions are conducive to growing cool climate grapes, chief among which are such varieties as Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.
Come with us on Sunday, July 11th at 3:30 pm to The Land Down Under as we explore these balanced, more moderate, food-friendly Australian wines that are grown in cooler climates from cool climate grapes. “Cool Australia” presenter Joe Via will lead us through this event, leaning on his prior experience as a wine buyer when he had occasion to visit Australia and learn first-hand about Australian wine production.
Cooler climate Australian wines is a side of Australian wines with which you may be unfamiliar, and all the more reason to learn about them. Plan now to join us for this event on Sunday, July 11th at 3:30 pm for our virtual presentation on Zoom.
In advance of our presentation, please try to secure at least two of the following recommended examples of cooler climate Australian wines (for Pennsylvania residents, PLCB Codes and pricing are included):

PLCB Code #84331 – Pikes Riesling, Clare Valley 2019 $15.99 (Very Limited Inventory)

PLCB Code #84324 – Alkoomi Riesling, Great Southern 2019 $16.99 (Limited Inventory)

SO# 622214 – Frisk ‘Prickly’ Riesling Alpine Valleys 2020 $9.59+$3.00 shipping+.58 tax – Total $13.17 (Available through Special Order only).
PLCB Code #76149 – Holm Oak Pinot Noir Tasmania 2016 – Now $23.99, reduced from $29.99 (Extremely limited inventory available through Special Order only). Or, because of limitations, anything you can find from Tasmania.

Click the following link to join our Zoom presentation of “Cool Australia (Cooler Climate Australian Wines)”
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Wine Wednesday ~ Sauvignon Blanc
2021-07-14 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
Sauvignon Blanc by Marty Cook
This week’s installment of Wine Wednesday takes place on July 14th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York Time on the Zoom link shown below and features wines made from the Sauvignon Blanc grape. Known as one of the small handful of Noble Grapes, and doubling as one of the parents to Cabernet Sauvignon, this French wine grape is grown the world over.
Sauvignon Blanc is a versatile grape that is capable of portraying many profiles. The terroir of each vineyard has everything to do with the wine aromas and flavors. So, French Sauvignon Blanc from various regions within the Loire Valley will differ from each other as well as from those from, say, Washington State or Australia.
For this Wine Wednesday event, choose your favorite Sauvignon Blanc from wherever and join us on July 14th at 7:00 p.m. to showcase your selection! And, as always, please take photos of the front and back labels of your bottle and send them to WineCat@pa.net by Tuesday at 11 p.m. for inclusion in Wednesday’s PowerPoint slide presentation.
We look forward to seeing you this coming Wednesday evening at 7:00 pm for Wine Wednesday! Zoom connection information follows below.
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Wine Wednesday ~ Syrah
2021-07-21 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
Syrah by Marty Cook
Syrah. One of the handful of the six or seven Noble Grapes, depending upon whose list you read. The Noble Grapes as an aggregate make the dominant proportion of fine wines around the world. This is partially as a result of these grapes being hardy enough to grow in most wine climates, not to mention that they also make some very fine wines.
Syrah is a thick-skinned grape that makes intensely colored wines. Syrah is elegant, refined, peppery and austere with a number of non-fruit notes and is found in France (synonymous with the Northern Rhône), Spain, cooler-climates in Australia, California (particularly Paso Robles), Washington State, Chile, and pockets on the North American East Coast and Southwest.
During this episode of Wine Wednesday, we will not be discussing Shiraz, which is a fruit-forward, jammy presentation of the Syrah grape popularized in Australia where they grow this grape in hot, arid areas to produce an entirely different flavor profile from the one that we will discuss on Wednesday, July 21st at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time.
So, secure a bottle of your favorite Syrah and join us for Wine Wednesday on July 21st at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time for an hour of interactive wine appreciation and education that you do not want to miss! And, just to make it interesting, take photos of the front and back labels of your bottle and send them to WineCat@pa.net by 11 p.m. Tuesday for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint slide show as we step through each of our selections and discuss the producer, the region, its terroir, and what makes this wine appeal to you.
We look forward to seeing you at the following Zoom link on Wednesday, July 21st at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time for our next Wine Wednesday!
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National Wine & Cheese Day
2021-07-25 15:30 - 17:00 UTC
National Wine & Cheese Day by Marty Cook
What better day to celebrate than a “Hallmark Holiday” on July 25th known as “National Wine & Cheese Day”? Wine and Cheese. Sort of goes together like Peanut Butter and Jelly. Like Eggs and Bacon. Like Potatoes and Gravy. Just a natural combination. And, Wine and Cheese as a pairing has chemistry in both a figurative and a literal sense. The fat in cheese works with tannin to smooth out the wine while the salt in cheese softens the acids in wine. Try it with us on Sunday, July 25th at 3:30 p.m. Eastern/New York time if you doubt this!
On “National Wine & Cheese Day”, our resident wine educator and co-host Joe Via will step us through the machinations of selecting cheese pairings to compliment your favorite wines. In that sense, Joe has said that this program will be more about cheese than it will be about wine. So, to make it easier, we will pair our cheeses with wines of your choosing made from the seven Noble Grapes. What are the Noble Grapes? I am glad you asked!
The Noble Grapes are made from a short list of seven wine grapes that, as an aggregate, make the dominant proportion of fine wines around the world. This is partially as a result of these grapes being hardy enough to grow in most wine climates, not to mention that they also make some very fine wines. They are Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc (all white), and Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah (all red). We will let the choice of wine-growing region up to your discretion, as the focus here will be on the cheeses.
There are many types of cheeses, such as Fresh Cheeses, Soft-White Cheeses, Natural-Rind Cheeses, Washed-Rind Cheeses, Semi-Soft Cheeses, Hard Cheeses, Blue Cheeses, and Specialty Cheeses. It is impossible to delve deeply into the extensive world of cheeses. Our goal will be to provide an overview with the basic rules of thumb with which you can arm yourself when making informed cheese choices to go with the wines you are serving.
There is so much to explore and enjoy! It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the task; given seven Noble Grapes, so many cheeses, and so little time. The resources pictured here can offer ideas. We also recommend seeking suggestions from your favorite Wine Consultant. For cheese – good advice is available for those in southcentral PA from experts found at Clyde Weaver’s in the West Shore Farmers Market, any Wegman’s Market cheese booth, the Di Bruno Bros. booth in the Camp Hill Giant supermarket, or Pugliese Brothers, Paxton Church Rd., Harrisburg. And it can be simple too should you only have time to stop by a minimart Sunday afternoon – Philly Cream Cheese on a plain Triscuit can be quite nice with a good crisp white wine. Therefore, no choice is wrong – be adventurous – we will learn together what we like AND what we love to pair!
And in case you’re worried about buying too much cheese and those leftover corners and chunks – the best mac and cheese EVER has been made by throwing in ALL the cheeses left from a couple cheese boards into the mix. An easy weeknight dinner and the next day’s take-to-work lunch that will have your whole work team wondering what smells so good in the microwave.
So, grab several bottles of wine from among the seven Noble Grape varieties along with a random assortment of cheese types, invite a few friends along for the ride, and join us at the Zoom link below on Sunday, July 25th at 3:30 p.m. Eastern/New York time to discuss Wine and Cheese pairing with Joe Via on “National Wine & Cheese Day”!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Fruit Wines and Dessert Wines
2021-07-28 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
Fruit & Dessert Wines by Marty Cook
The topic for our next Wine Wednesday on July 28th at 7:00 p.m. (Eastern/New York time) may initially be off-putting to some, as “Fruit & Dessert Wines” raises the suggestion that our discussion will revolve around sweet wines. I like to think of it as “sweet wines with a purpose!” Yes, it is true that most dessert wines are sweet or sweeter, and many also carry a higher percentage of alcohol by volume. But, who’s to say that you cannot drink a dry sparkling wine with your dessert item? Even more importantly is the fact that one’s initial impression of “sweet” upon hearing the words “fruit and dessert wines” completely neglects the inherent food pairings that are enhanced by such wines. My rule of thumb for dessert wines is that the wine should be as sweet or sweeter than the dessert. But, you may enjoy something less sweet, which is your prerogative.
True, there is a bias among most “dry” wine drinkers by the implication of “sweet” wine. But, during this episode of Wine Wednesday, I ask that you put that bias aside and consider the possibilities. There is an entire genre of delicious, albeit, sweet or sweeter wines that you really should consider. And, during this discussion, I am not including the slushie crowd from one of those sweet wine-producing wineries. Although it is undeniable that there is a market for such swill (because you can hide a multitude of sins, i.e. bad wine, with enough sugar), that will not be our focus during this event.
We will rise above the cotton candy-flavored wines to such types of wines as Port, Sherry, Sauternes (and, not that California invention of “Sauterne”), Ice Wine, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and well-made Moscato (and, not industrial grade bulk Moscato). There are also sparkling wines that are served as dessert wines. My favorite is a nice Asti, although you could go in another direction and choose a Brut or Extra Dry Champagne or Prosecco. Remember that I said in the onset that “most” fruit and dessert wines are sweet. There are also a number of very delightful and inexpensive fruit-based varietals or blends with which to explore. I will try to have some of those on hand to discuss during our upcoming Wine Wednesday on July 28th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time.
I have attached a brief article (or see it here at Usual Wines ) to this announcement that will give you some additional detail on dessert wines and perhaps more ideas as to the wine you wish to select for Wine Wednesday. So, give it some thought and join us next Wednesday to discuss “Fruit & Dessert Wines”! Oh, and, as always, please photograph the front and back labels of your bottle and email them to WineCat@pa.net by 11 p.m. Tuesday for inclusion in our Wine Wednesday PowerPoint lineup of wines to be discussed. Thanks!
_________________________________________________________________________
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Wine Wednesday ~ "if you could have only one wine..."
2021-08-04 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
by Marty Cook
Imagine being marooned on a desert island with nothing but a secure, climate-controlled wine cellar and an endless supply of wine but limited to only one varietal or blend. Not necessarily your favorite, but possibly your “forever” wine. What would that one wine be?
All details will be distributed to PWS members in advance of the event each week. Everyone may always check back here the week of the event for Zoom connection information!

Louis Jadot Chardonnay Comparison
2021-08-08 15:30 - 17:00 UTC
Louis Jadot Chardonnay Comparison by Marty Cook
Please join us with Host Joe Via on Sunday, August 8th at 3:30 pm Eastern/New York Time for an hour long presentation that will explain and lead us through tasting of Chardonnay wines from the Burgundy region of France. Did you know that a white, Burgundy wine is, by definition, almost always a Chardonnay? Joe will demonstrate this by comparing three white, Burgundy wines from Maison Louis Jadot that are all made from the Chardonnay grape. With oak, with-out oak and Pouilly-Fuisse (po͞oˌyē fwēˈsā). Huh?
This will be a tasting and discussion about three Louis Jadot white, Burgundy’s (Chardonnay’s). Three rather different Chardonnay’s. Joe will discuss how each of these wines has its own distinctions and application for food pairing. The discussion will also touch upon basic Burgundy geography and weather. Grapes will be discussed with maps of the Burgundy region; but, the discussion will ultimately zero in on the Mâconnais district which is located in the south of the Burgundy wine region in France. The three wines selected will also help us understand the French Appellation of Origin (AOC) system. Like zeroing in on a bulls-eye, each wine tasted will take us a little closer to the center. And, what better time to learn more about Chardonnay than on a hot August afternoon!
All three of these offerings have standard store availability in Pennsylvania Fine Wine & Good Spirits Stores at affordable prices.

Louis Jadot White Burgundy
PA LCB Code #6406
$18.99
“This Bourgogne Chardonnay is a fruity wine showing aromas of flowers and fruit flesh; it is harmonious and very pleasant. Ideally it can be drunk with vegetable terrines, poultry, goat cheese but also as an apéritif. It will be very pleasant at a temperature between 10 to 12°C. After 2 or 3 years of aging, other aromas will develop allowing this chardonnay to be paired with a more sophisticated cuisine.” –Winemaker notes

Louis Jadot Macon Villages Chardonnay
PA LCB Code #7206
$15.99
“The Mâcon Villages area is located in the southern part of Burgundy, close to the Beaujolais area. This appellation is the largest of the Mâconnais area, covering about 2 500 ha of vineyards and 43 communes. Forty three villages have the right to produce Mâcon Blanc Villages. Mâcon Villages are only white wines. The wines are made from 100% Chardonnay grapes. The limestone subsoil of the Monts du Mâconnais are ideal for growing the Chardonnay grapes. Some small areas produce exceptional wines. The Louis Jadot Mâcon Blanc Villages is made from grapes from these different areas.” –Winemaker notes

Louis Jadot Pouilly-Fuisse
PA LCB Code #6411
$27.99
“Deep straw—yellow. Opulent cream and toast aromas. Moderately full—bodied, ripe palate with vibrant acidity. Supple and drinking beautifully. Drink now.”
–Winemaker notes

So, plan now to pick up some or all three of the above Louis Jadot wines that we will discuss and join us on Zoom (the link is shown below) on Sunday, August 8th at 3:30 pm Eastern Time to learn more about the nuance that can be found in three wines from the same region. We look forward to seeing you!
Join “Louis Jadot Chardonnay Comparison” by clicking on the following link:
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Wine Wednesday ~ "Plonk"
2021-08-11 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
PLONK by Marty Cook
What is “Plonk”? Wikipedia defines it thusly:
“Plonk is a non-specific and derogatory term used primarily in British and Australian English for cheap, low-quality wine. It is believed to come from Australian slang, in reference to blanc, before it became naturalised in Britain. Despite the reference to the colour white, the term is not limited to white wine, and can as easily indicate a red wine or rosé.”
For the sake of this segment of Wine Wednesday, which takes place on Wednesday, August 11th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time, we will elevate our definition by interpreting “Plonk” as inexpensive (“affordable”) wines of little or no repute that are nonetheless palatable, easy-drinking wines. We could go so far as to say that they are wines that you would not be embarrassed to serve but about which you may not necessarily care to share the details. We could go so far as to include jug wines, box wines, and even canned wines, although there are many examples of affordable, easy-drinking wines that are packaged in 750 ml bottles. Some may go so far as to have cork closures! The key ingredient in all of this is “affordable” and “palatable” wines. If that is Boone’s Farm Strawberry Hill or Gallo Hearty Burgundy, then so be it. Or, if you get on your inner snob, then it might be some version of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. To each their own.
So, put your pride aside, hold your nose, and confess what wine really gets you through the workweek. Join us on Wednesday, August 11th at 7:00 pm Eastern/New York time for this coming installment of Wine Wednesday and be ready to share your favorite Plonk with us! Oh, and, as always, please photograph the front and back labels of your chosen wine and send those pics to WineCat@pa.net by 11 p.m. Tuesday evening for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint slide show presentation. We hope to see you at the Zoom link shown below. Take care!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Chardonnay
2021-08-18 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
This ubiquitous grape of French origin grows well in nearly all terroir and exhibits a multiplicity of aromas and flavors reflective of those terroir. Yet, there are those who decry this wine with “Anything But Chardonnay!” Why is it hated and what is your favorite Chardonnay?
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Paso Robles - AVA Updates
2021-08-22 15:30 - 17:00 UTC
Photo Courtesy of Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance
Please join PWS and Host Joe Via on August 22nd at 3:30 p.m. Eastern/New York time, for a look at the Central Coast in California. Specifically, the Paso Robles AVA including updates and new things to look for on wine shelves. As this wine appellations’ law evolves, so will the labels.
For Cabernet and Rhone-style fans out there, selection and value are there now for these wines if you know where and what to look for. Keep the grills fired up!

Please check back here in future weeks for additional details, as well as the Zoom link information to include you in this event!

Wine Wednesday ~ Your Favorite Wine?
2021-08-25 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
Maybe there is a wine that you reserve for very special occasions, or another of which you can never get enough, or another without which you could never live. Is it your favorite? What is that wine?
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Additional details for each individual event are posted here closer to the actual event date, and distributed to PWS members and those on our distribution list via e-mail in advance of the event each week.
You may request to be placed on the mailing list for a complimentary 3-month trial by entering your full name and email address at the top of the home page. If you want to be a Member or Patron, and enjoy all the benefits, click here to join!
Please check back here the week of the event for Zoom connection information.

Wine Wednesday ~ Cabernet Sauvignon
2021-09-01 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
by Marty Cook
Cabernet Sauvignon, often referred to as “The King of Wine Grapes”, is the topic of our upcoming installment of Wine Wednesday on this coming Wednesday, September 1st at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time. One of the Noble Grapes, “Cab Sauv” is representative of so many stylistic interpretations owing to “place” and “winemaker preference”. An offspring of a natural crossing between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc (hence, the name “Cabernet Sauvignon”), this revered grape can portray Old World or New World styles, as well as some that bridge those two styles.
What version of Cabernet Sauvignon represents your particular preference? Is it the higher acid and lower alcohol content of the traditional Old World style, or do you enjoy a more full-bodied “big, bold, and fruit forward” style of a New World portrayal from, say, Napa? There are regions that perhaps should not insist on growing this grape due to their lack of sunlight and heat. Or, will those regions have the last laugh as climate change smiles on their fortunes with more heat and sunlight? So, grab a bottle of a Cabernet Sauvignon from the region that you prefer and share it with us as we enjoy another round of Wine Wednesday on the Zoom link shown below!
As always, we ask that you send photos of the front and back labels of your wine bottle to WineCat@pa.net by 11 p.m. Tuesday evening for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint “Slide Show of Stars” as we trot out each of the wines that our participants choose to feature!
We look forward to seeing all of you this coming Wednesday for this week’s installment of Wine Wednesday on September 1st at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time at the Zoom link below!
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