Even Johansen’s road to the Washington wine industry began in Scandinavia, was inspired by South America and led him to Sylvi Wines. His father’s work with a Seattle-based fishing company meant trips to Argentina, Chile and Uruguay, and that meant Sverre Johansen would return home with high-quality wines, including Tannat and Malbec, from small producers. In 2010, Even … [Read more...] about Rising Stars: Even Johansen turns dream into Sylvi Wines, Dalset label
Rising Stars: Ellie Zeron’s path to wine began in Venezuela, led to Red Mountain
BENTON CITY, Wash. — During my time as the wine program director at the Walter Clore Center, we staged an annual tasting for consumers called “Rising Stars,” at which some of Washington’s promising young wineries poured their wines. My column will now take a similar path, providing a platform for rising stars who don’t fit the traditional perception of winemakers. Ellie … [Read more...] about Rising Stars: Ellie Zeron’s path to wine began in Venezuela, led to Red Mountain
Always good to go back to school — for wine
Some of you read that headline and thought, “Yup, agreed, I’m ready.” Others want a bit more information before being convinced. “Wine school” is a great idea if you want to work in the wine industry, learn more about your industry or if you employ someone who would benefit from enrolling and learning a bit more. My column for the Fall 2022 issue listed … [Read more...] about Always good to go back to school — for wine
Behind the Tasting Bar: Working, pouring in winery tasting room not for all
"We should get jobs in tasting rooms!”Those brilliant words were uttered between me and my neighbor back in 2008, after enjoying a few glasses of box wine — that’s an entirely different topic — on her patio. Have you ever thought or said the same thing? If so, I can help you get started. First, let’s make sure you have the right idea: Do you think people who work at … [Read more...] about Behind the Tasting Bar: Working, pouring in winery tasting room not for all
Behind the Tasting Bar: Step out rather than call for a Cab
“Let’s just get a bottle of Cab.” Ah yes, employing the use of the safe nickname to avoid pronunciation mishaps. It is an acceptable and reliable strategy, however, it is time to up your game. Many wine consumers steer clear of mentioning, reading or recalling the names of and/or drinking wines they cannot pronounce, but it is time to get brave and venture … [Read more...] about Behind the Tasting Bar: Step out rather than call for a Cab