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AMERICAN WINE SOCIETY® NEWS Promoting Appreciation of Wine Through Education

Volume 28, No. 6 www.americanwinesociety.org December 2014

At the onset, two years as President seemed like plenty of time to set goals and achieve them. Then, adding a third year to my tenure was the gravy, but still there are only 24 hours in a day.

This is my last AWS News article as President, and it brings bit-tersweet waves of emotional over me. I define the word bitter-sweet in two parts - Sweet: Those goals I set out to accomplish and did; Bitter: the ones I was unable to achieve/finish due to time or elements beyond my control.

The sweet: The new initiative presented to the members that I, through the help and support of so many people, have been able to bring to the society. I created the pilot program for RVP selection which has thrived and flourished; we have grown from 14 RVPs in 2011 to 25 RVP today (78% increase). The bitter: There is still so much work to be done in this area. My goal was to have more “boots on the ground” by having RVPs in all states that have members. That is still a goal I intend to support and work towards.

I pursued an old initiative that had fallen by the wayside through no one’s fault except that old culprit of time and priori-tization—continual wine judge education and recertification. After many discussions with members of the WJCP educational team and brainstorming sessions, the Wine Judge Recertification program began in the fall of 2012. To encourage participation in the recertification program I sat for the first exam and success-fully passed. I was determined to demon-strate this program was a worthwhile en-

President’s Message Jane Duralia

Cont. on Page 3

Were you there? Were you one of the 550 people who enjoyed 2½ days of wine, food and friends in the Tar Heel state? If not, boy did you miss a great time.

Southern hospitality was plentiful as AWS members enjoyed a North Carolina BBQ and tasted wines from 17 of the state’s wineries at the Welcome Reception. But that was just the beginning…

Friday and Saturday were filled with educational wine tasting ses-sions with opportunities to sample wines from a myriad of states and countries. Foodies had 4 great wine and food pairing sessions to enjoy and our winemakers had several sessions to help them hone their skills. Truly something for everyone.

Thanks again to our sponsors—we couldn’t do this without you!

The North Carolina Winegrowers Association for such great support from the NC wine community

Windsor Run Cellars for serving as our “ship-to” point for all conference wine

The Wines of Lodi, California for sponsoring Friday’s lunch

The Wines of Chianti Classico for sponsoring Saturday’s lunch

Bremner Wafers for providing all of the palate cleansing crackers

Balzac Communications & Mar-keting for organizing the Chianti Classico lunch and presenting several sessions

The festivities concluded Saturday night with Les Sperling accepting the Outstanding Member Award and Gina Gallo accepting our Award of Merit. Two very deserving people.

After the banquet, a bit of music, a little dancing and a touch more wine with friends, the 47th annual AWS con-ference closed. Want to see the con-ference pictures? Go to the Photo Gal-lery page of the AWS website.

Now it’s time for me to pass the conference baton to Diane Meyer. I have been Conference Chair since 2008 and have enjoyed all of them: Sacramento, Destin, Cincinnati, Rochester, Portland, Sandusky and Concord. Kind of like children… all different but love ‘em all. Now it’s Diane’s turn and I’m looking forward to enjoying her first effort as Conference Chair at the Sheraton Premiere, Ty-sons Corner, Virginia on November 5-7, 2015. See you there.

John [email protected]

National Conference News John Hames Contents

AWC Winners 12 Chapter Chairs Forum 5 Chapter Events 6 Editor’s Musings 2 Government Affairs 4 Member Service News 5 National Office News 14 National Tasting Project 11, 15 Obituaries 8 Treasurer’s Report 9 Wine Judge Certification 16 Winemaker’s Journal 4

Les Sperling and Jane Duralia

Jane, Gina Gallo, John and Diane

http://www.americanwinesociety.org/gallery/

AWS News - December 2014

AWS National Office John Hames — Executive Director Diane Meyer — Member Service Manager P. O. Box 279 Englewood, OH 45322

Phone (888) AWS-9070 (888) 297-9070 Fax (937) 529-7888 Email [email protected] Website www.americanwinesociety.org

AWS National Officers President Jane Duralia Vice President Frank Aquilino Secretary Joe Broski Treasurer Walt Rachele Directors at Large Competitions Joe Dautlick Education Peter Cisek Membership David Falchek

AWS News Staff Pam Davey Editor [email protected] John Hames Publisher [email protected] Lee Baldieri [email protected] Joe Broski [email protected]

Tom Cobett [email protected]

Bonnie Huber [email protected]

The AWS News is the official newsletter of the American Wine Society. It is published bi-monthly in February, April, June, August, October and December. It is also posted on our website www.americanwinesociety.org.

We welcome your comments, letters and articles. Please send your contributions to the editor

[email protected].

ISSN 1543-205X

The American Wine Society, founded in 1967, is the oldest and largest consumer based wine edu-cation organization in North Ameri-ca. We are a non-profit, education-al corporation. Membership is open to the general public and is benefi-cial for those who have a keen interest in wine, winemaking and/or wine culture. Our mission is “Promoting Appreciation of Wine Through Education.”

www.americanwinesociety.org

AWS in the Social Media Help spread the word by "liking us" on Facebook. http://www.facebook.com/americanwinesociety

Join our LinkedIn Group http://www.linkedin.com. Search "Groups" for American Wine Society.

F o l l o w u s o n T w i t t e r a t @AmericanWineSoc

Editor’s Musings Pam Davey

Another National Conference is over and it was terrific. Thanks to all the members who put together the program, the wines, the competitions, the exhibitors, registration, trips and especially to John Hames and Diane Meyer for over-seeing every detail.

Thanks to the wineries who donated wines for our meals, re-ceptions and tastings—we couldn’t hold our conference without these contributions!

The speakers were wonderful—I was able to attend 2 food and wine pairings. The first was Tony Lawrence’s “Bubbles and Bacon,” which featured both savory and sweet bacon dishes with sparkling wines. The pear, white chocolate and orzo pud-ding with bacon crumbles was a show stopper. Glen Lemaire’s “Port, It’s not just for Chocolate Anymore” taught me how versatile port really is. I enjoyed Julie Pedroncelli’s stories about growing up in a winemaking dynasty.

This issue includes the results of the 2014 National Tasting Project, the winners of our Amateur Winemaking Competition, and the annual Treasurer’s report, in addition to our regular contributors. Be sure the check out the back cover for the names and photos of our newly certified Wine Judges. Look for an article on our Outstanding Member Les Sperling in the Feb-ruary AWS News.

Sadly, with this issue we bid adieu to President Jane Duralia and Treasurer Walt Rachele, whose terms end on Dec. 31. But, I know that they will both continue to be very in-volved with the AWS and the AWSEF.

Wishing you and your families a joyous holiday sea-son and some good wines. Cheers!

Pam [email protected]

2014 National Conference Committee


If you read the e-mail Jane Duralia and Frank Aquilino sent on Nov. 11, you already know that the person the AWS Board selected as my successor has resigned due to medical issues. It’s an unfortunate situation and we wish Dan the best.

As Jane and Frank said in their e-mail, Diane Meyer and I have agreed to stay in our positions until a new search is conducted and the next Executive Director and Member Ser-vice Manager are selected. So, for the next few months, things will continue as they are.

While Dan’s resignation was unfortunate, it does give us an opportunity to reflect on the scope of responsibilities and duties we’re asking our National Office staff to do….kind of a “do-over”. Since I became your Executive Director in 2010, we’ve made a lot of changes to the things we do and the services we provide AWS members, which are good things, but they have added quite a bit to the work load Diane and I have. Perhaps too much.

Before we start a new Executive Director search, we want to take a little time to step back and see if it makes sense to revise the job descriptions first. Diane and I will look at each item and see if it makes sense to keep it in, remove it, or move it to someone else. Perhaps this activity will create the need for new support positions to help with specific duties … time will tell. When we’ve completed our review, we’ll pre-sent our recommendations to the AWS Board for review. Once the Board approves the revised job descriptions, we’ll be ready to start the new Executive Director search.

Our goal is to have the revised job descriptions approved by the end of the year and initiate the new search process in early January. If all goes well, we hope to have a new Execu-tive Director selected no later than the end of February. Once that happens, Diane and I will work with him/her through the training period until they officially take the reins. The timing on this will depend on who we choose, when they can start, where they live and how quickly they are able to learn the information.

So, while you’re enjoying good food and good wine with fam-ily and friends this holiday season, be assured that we are working to plan a bright new year for AWS!

John [email protected]

National Office News John Hames

President’s Message Cont. from Page 1

deavor and important to set AWS apart from any other wine judge programs. The sweet: AWS is the only wine education program in the country that requires recertification. We pro-mote our judges’ certification through our website and that our certified judges maintain the highest standard of quality in judging. The bitter: There are 50 certified judges on the web-site—there’s room for more.

The sweet: An opportunity arose in 2012 for AWS to participate in the EWE (Eastern Wine Exposition) in Lancaster, PA, and Wines Unlimited in Roanoke, VA, with no booth charges at ei-ther venue—just AWS exposure! There were several skeptics discouraging our participation by weighing the perceived value in participating vs. the financial outlay. I believed strongly that it was/is vital to position AWS in the public eye and wine indus-try eye as much and as often as possible.

I really pushed to make this happen by volunteering to man the booth at both events. Diane and I shared the adventure. It was so beneficial—learning to promoting ourselves, networking and building meaningful respectful relationships with wineries and others within the wine industry and ancillary businesses.

We contacted the wineries who received gold or silver medals at the national competition the previous year and requested brochures to make available as we poured their wines. A tre-mendous response came from the wineries—they were appre-ciative and quite pleased that AWS was pouring their wines at promotional events. We have continued our relationship with EWE and winning wineries each year since. It’s a win/win/win! Through this endeavor we have gained new Professional mem-bers, new household members, made new business contacts and spread good will to wineries while encouraging more win-ery participation in our Commercial Competition. The bitter: Sometimes it takes a lot to convince people to think outside the box and step outside their comfort zone.

I have always believed that if it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well. Over the past three years I have supported our AWS

members all over the country by being avail-able to travel to chap-ters meetings whenev-er invited, by attend-ing wine events pro-moting AWS, by par-ticipating in wine judg-ing events, and by attending regional activities. (Many times at my own expense because I believe in the future of AWS). I

strive to continually build relationships across the country with-in the AWS membership as well as expanding our vision and communications with wineries in all parts of the world.

I believe in the American Wine Society and I am committed to be an AWS Ambassador in promoting its continued strong growth and viability. I will continue to work with the national team as requested and will support our new President in any way he needs.

It has truly been my pleasure to serve as your President.

Jane [email protected]

Jane passes the thyrsus to Frank Aquilino

2014 Outstanding Regional VP Rich Ryba, Western PA

2014 Outstanding Chapter Chair

Chris Creasy, East Las Vegas

This year we began honoring 2 volunteers who are promoting the AWS at the regional and local level.

Congrats to the first award winners!

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Harrisburg, PA: Republicans will soon take control of both chambers of the Pennsylvania General Assembly, but Governor-elect Tom Wolf, a Democrat, has publicly said he does not support liquor privatization. That would likely mean that any privatization bill would now require a two-thirds majority to pass.

Once again, just because the majority of the voting residents in Pennsylvania are in favor of privatizing the sales of alcoholic beverages, does not mean that it will happen. The idea to privatize the state's liquor stores has been discussed for years, and has been generally supported by current Governor Tom Corbett. During the most recent legislative session, a bill that would have done that passed the House but failed in the Senate. A variety of alternate bills ultimately failed to pass both chambers before the election.

The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, which oversees 606 liquor stores statewide, reported a 3.2% increase in sales and tax revenue in fiscal year 2013-14 compared to the previ-ous year. That increase was largely attributed to an increased focus on stocking high-end wines. During the year, wine sales increased by 3.5% compared to liquor's 2.9% increase.

A television ad, sponsored by the United Food and Commercial Workers—PA Wine & Spirits Council, has been playing around the state for the past year. The UNFCW represents the em-ployees of the state-owned stores. The ad is reminiscent of the “Reefer Madness” campaign of years gone by. It alleges that selling wine in grocery stores kills children and costs Pennsylvanians money. You can see the entire ad at http://v i d e o - e m b e d . p e n n l i v e . c o m / s e r v i c e s / p l a y e r /bcpid2444116368001?bclid=0&bctid=3509054708001.

New South Wales, Australia: One of the men behind Yellow Tail wines has recently been charged over his alleged involve-ment in a major drug syndicate operating out of Griffith, NSW. Marcello Casella, the youngest of three brothers in Australia's largest family-owned winery, Casella Wines, is alleged to be part of the criminal syndicate that produced, distributed and sold commercial quantities of cannabis and methylampheta-mine throughout southern NSW.

Police first raided a property linked to Mr. Casella just outside Griffith, a town long synonymous with marijuana cultivation. Two weeks later, he ceased being a director of Casella Wines, which exports some 12 million cases of Yellow Tail wine to more than 50 countries annually. Mr. Casella was charged with the more serious offences by the NSW Drug squad on September 22. During the raids police allege they uncovered close to $15 million worth of drugs. Marcello Casella will ap-pear in court again in January, 2015.

New York, NY: The Nielsen Co. released sales figures for the top 100 premium wine brands based solely on closure type, showing significant improvements for wines sealed with a nat-ural cork. Since the start of 2010, the volume market share for wines closed with cork rose 29%. Alternative closures also saw an increase, but were just 9% in the same time period. While the numbers do not necessarily mean that consumers are making their purchase based solely on closure type, the data does show an improvement in sales of wine closed with cork.

Lansing, MI: Rep. Jeff Irwin, D-Ann Arbor, is the sponsor of a bill to regulate “pedal pubs,” contraptions where multiple peo-ple could bike and drink at the same time. He said pedal pub owners wanted to get

Government Affairs

Tom Cobett

Winemaker’s Journal Lee Baldieri

The 2014 harvest time has arrived and gone, so things around the wine room are getting

back to normal. This year marked the tenth fermenta-tion year with my wine wife, Bob Thomas. Prior to the grapes arriving, we decided that our main varietal was going to be Sangiovese and we would use it to build a 5 grape Super Tuscan. This year the grapes we purchased came in at 28 brix, which we reduced to 24 brix by adding acid-

ified water to reduce the alcohol levels to 13.0–14.0%. Along with the Sangiovese grapes, we purchased an Atlas Peak Merlot and a Suisun Valley Clone 169 Cabernet Sauvignon. But, what really got me excited (not so much for Thomas) was the Sagrantino grapes we were able to purchase. I can imagine my readers wondering what’s so exciting about Sa-grantino. Heck, never heard of it! Is it a California or Italian grown grape?

My grandparents and father departed Italy in 1908 from the Umbria region. Umbria sits between Tuscany and Le Marche

so, unlike it other 19 regions, it is land-locked–it doesn’t touch any oceans. We are considered central Italians and the region is best known for its white wine grapes (Grechetto and Trebbiano) made under the Denominazione di origine controllato (DOC) and marketed under the names Orvieto and Orvieto Classico. All nice to know, but

I’m sure you’re still thinking, what is this Sagrantino grape?

Sagrantino is an Italian grape variety that is indigenous to Umbria. It is grown primarily in and around the village of Montefalco but now it’s also grown in California. I got my hands on some and began to research the grape. I learned that the Italian government gave the Sagrantino di Montefal-co DOC status in 1980. Twelve years later it was elevated to DOCG with the rule that the wine is made from 100% Sa-grantino grape and aged for 30 months (12 months in wood-en barrels) before it can be released. It produces a tannic, heavy wine that can be aged for a long time.

We purchased 14 cases of the grape and it is currently set-tling in my wine room. We co-inoculated using Lavlin’s Clos yeast, which was isolated by the University of Rovira in Spain. We selected this yeast for its higher alcohol tolerance (up to 17%) and its good compatibility with malolactic fer-mentation. For the malolactic bacteria, we selected a Lalle-mand product, Beta CO-INCO, designed for wines with a pH greater than 3.2 (We adjusted ours to 3.6. FYI). The Beta CO-INCO is mixed and added to the wine 24 to 48 hours after your yeast has been pitched.

So far the fermentation has gone smoothly and I will soon perform a color chromatography test to confirm the success-ful conclusion of the malolactic fer-mentation. We seem to be 6-8 weeks ahead of this wine’s timeline and ex-pect more a fruit-forward finished wine. I’m still researching the name of the vineyard in California that grew the Sagrantino grapes we purchased. Salute!

Lee [email protected]

Cont. on Page 5


their vehicles licensed but ran into trouble working with the Michigan Department of Transportation. Rep. Wayne Schmidt, R-Traverse City, and Irwin have partnered on bills that would regulate these quadricycles. HB 5409 would require an owner to carry $2 million liability coverage, stipulate that the opera-tor couldn’t have any alcohol in his system, and limit the alco-hol on board to beer and wine. Quadricycles would be limited to streets with speed limits of 35 mph or less.

Tom [email protected]

Government Affairs Continued from Page 4

Chapter Chairs Forum David Falchek

One thing that emerged from the Chapter Chair Breakfast at the Annual Conference is that leaders want a way to interact and share ideas more regularly. Incoming AWS Vice Pres-ident Kristin Casler Kraft and I talked to sever-al chapter chairs and decided to deploy a ra-ther old internet technology—the on-line bulletin board/ fo-rum—as a way for leaders to share ideas and ask questions.

We add a new chapter about every month and many chapter founders have little experience with the AWS. Some are natu-ral organizers, with experience managing groups. Others may not be sure where to start. Also, many existing chapters have incoming chairs looking for guidance in leading a chapter. The Chapter Chair Forum will complement existing services the AWS offers new chapters (New Chapter Playbook, Regional Vice Presidents and, of course, the Member Service Manager).

In email, phone conversation, and the sharing during the con-ference, I learn a great deal from CCs and RVPs. This forum will allow that to take place year around, directly among CCs and RVPs nationwide. Visit regularly to network with other AWS leaders.

To keep the forum AWS-only and commercial free, it will be moderated. Registrants will be reviewed and categorized as CC, RVP or Board Member, either current or emeritus. The forum will allow lateral communication between chapter chairs rather than opinions being handed down from on high.

Visit http://awschapterchairforum.freeforums.net. After you register and are approved, you will see a section of “Boards” on topics such as chapter operations, national business, being an RVP, wine talk, and a “nice” board. This is where you may start a discussion thread by asking a question or offering a suggestion. The nice board is a “feel good” section where you can say something nice about the AWS or an AWS member. (Don’t be distracted by the “Shoutbox” which is meant for exclamation rather than the interaction on the board.) When you create your profile, take a look at fun, wine-related ava-tars we’ve loaded to the site or upload your own.

Current and past CCs and RVPs can register for the forum and share their experience. Suggestions are welcome—my experi-ence with bulletin boards is limited. In time, we hope this fo-rum will foster deeper ties within our national community of wine appreciators and become a repository of institutional knowledge to serve AWS leaders into the future.

David [email protected]

Member Service News Diane Meyer

Happy holidays AWS members! It is the end of another year and what a year it has been. This year at Conference we acknowledged 17 new chapters who were or are being formed in 2014. Since then we have added another and the com-plete list is below. Now, all of these chapters may not succeed but this shows you how many of our members are out there promoting AWS and are actively participating in the future of our organization. I’d like to personally thank each and every person who has or is working on starting a new AWS chapter. You are a big reason why our organization will continue to suc-ceed and prosper!

Big Pocono Pours, PA Novinophobia Support Group, AL Catalina Foothills. AZ Rockwall Chapter, TX Colorado Springs, CO Sonoita Chapter, AZ Jacobsburg Cellars, PA Southport, NC Long Beach, CA Treasure Coast Wine Club, FL Meadow Run Mtn.Lake,PA Washington County, PA Metro San Diego, CA Wayzata Wine Club, MN Monrovia-Hermitage, AL Wicked Women on Wine, AL No Name Wine Club, AL Wine Appreciation-Greenville, SC

Membership numbers also grew at a steady rate this year. We are ending our year with 5,243 total members, with 1,287 new members who joined this year! We do have turnover in our membership with some people not renewing and many new members joining every year. Since 2010, when I started track-ing membership numbers, we have showed significant growth every year. Below are the membership numbers in November to show you our growth pattern (I don’t have December yet). This is something to be proud of!

Nov. 2010 - 3,695 members Nov. 2011 - 4,263 members Nov. 2012 - 4,693 members Nov. 2013 - 4,979 members Nov. 2014 - 5,243 members

This was going to be my goodbye column but I guess you will have to wait a little longer for that one. I was ready to move on to my National Conference Chair position in 2015 but I am happy that I am able to stay in the Member Service position a little longer. I truly enjoy being the point of contact for our membership and being able to assist you on a daily basis. I will miss it when it is gone so I am going to enjoy these extra few months I have!

Enjoy your holidays with some fabulous wines and great friends. Cheers!

Diane [email protected]

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The Atascadero (CA) Chapter conducted a Bordeaux varietals tasting that featured wines from the Napa Valley and Paso Robles. Some wineries have joined a society that calls these blends Meritage; others just call them Bordeaux blends. Traditionally, France uses multiple varietals, but California wineries often use only one. First, we tasted each of the 5 varietals separately and a final blend from Napa. We followed these with 3 Bordeaux blends from Paso Robles.

2011 Chappellet Merlot $40 (3) Dark garnet, ripe, intense, some anise, good finish 2011 Chappellet Cab Franc 65 (2) Dark garnet, ripe flavors, cherry-cranberry, hint of spice 2010 Burgess Petit Verdot 40 (3) Dark purple, ripe blackberry flavors 2010 Chappellet Malbec 52 Dark purple, ripe plum flavors, cassis-cedar, nice acidity 2010 Chappellet Bordeaux Blend 52 (3) Dark purple, ripe dark fruit flavor, balanced 2010 J. Lohr Cuvee St. E 50 Dark purple, ripe plum flavors, some spice. Off (corked?) 2010 J. Lohr Cuvee Pau 50 (3) Dark purple, ripe flavors, coconut, coffee, spice, balanced 2010 J. Lohr Cuvee Pom 50 (1) Dark purple, ripe lush flavors, good balance, long finish

The Carroll County (MD) Chapter met on September 19 for Petite Sirah wines at the Carrs’s home. Two guests attend-ed. The wines were:

Foppiano (warm-up) 21 Chacewater 21 Peachy Canyon 35 Ridge Lytton Springs 36 Earthquake 28 Jaffurs 41 Robert Biale 46

The Cleveland (OH) Chapter met at Marcia and Greg Polyak’s house in October for a tasting of Portuguese Wines. Barb and Wayne Meyers were the co-hosts and prepared the main dish, Carne de Porco a Alentejana (Portuguese surf and turf, made with pork loin and clams in a herbal wine sauce). The wine se-

lections included 2 whites and 4 reds—all were well received. 2011 Monte Velho White $15 2011 Esporão Private Selection White DOC 30 2012 Aluado “Moonstruck” 16 (2) 2010 Giesta Dão Red Blend, DOC 13 2010 Esporão Quatro Castas 25 (3) 2009 Esporao Reserva Red 30 (1)

The Manchester Community College’s Cheney Dining Room will be the scene of the 34th annual Amenti del Vino Awards dinner on Dec. 5. The awards dinner is held in concert with the Connecticut Chapter. Wayne Stitzer, AWS professional member, lecturer, Journal author, wine consultant/owner of the WineTecc Lab and former commercial winemaker, will be named the “2014 Connecticut Wine Person of the Year” for his 30-years of devoted service. Also being honored as “Chevalier” award recipients are AWS members Leeanne Wheeler and Stephanie Stombolis. “Chevaliers” are honored for their contributions to the better understanding and appre-

ciation of wine. The dinner is prepared by the Culinary arts students at the college. Gene Spaziani and Rayona Hobbs organized this event.

The East Las Vegas Valley (NV) Chapter met on Sep-tember 11 at Grape Expectations for a tasting of American Wines, just not from your typical wine producing areas! Sev-enty three members and guests were present. Prior to the discussion, members enjoyed a Gruet (New Mexico) sparkling wine, then moved on to wines from 6 more states. We also experienced some new grapes—St Croix, Cayuga, Cham-bourcin and Chardonel. Chris Creasey, Gene Lowe, Kirk Gold-ing and Sheila Little presented the wines. We had a special guest, Doug McCombs from IG Winery in Utah, who described his Petite Sirah. The entire group was pleasantly surprised by the wines. A copy of the presentation can be found on our website: www.elvvaws.org.

NV Gruet Brut, New Mexico $15 (2) Maugle Sierra St. Croix Rose, Connecticut 21 Chaumette Mosaic, Missouri 18 Raylen Vineyards Carolinius, North Carolina 15 2011 Pahrump Valley Tempranillo, Nevada 22 2009 IG Winery Petite Sirah, Utah 29 (1) 2013 Ferrante Vidal Blanc Ice Wine, Ohio 30 (3)

Bill and Patti Mayo hosted “Essence of Valpolicella to Ama-rone” on October 19 for the Lehigh Valley (PA) Chapter at Paese Mio in suburban Allentown. A capacity crowd of 42 signed up for this yummy tasting of 12 northeast Italian wines. Although concentrating on Valpolicella and Amarone, attendees were treated to a couple white icebreakers, plus a Teroldego and Ruche, 2 little-known grapes grown in north-east Italy. Patti and Bill did a great job handling the educa-tional component with a map and handouts to supplement a commentary, often drowned out by a raucous crowd. The favorite was Bertani Amarone. Wine Advocate gives it 93 points and states, “A classy effort, the 2006 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico is a magnificent wine that showcases the qualities and pretty nuances of the elegant vintage.” Mike and the crew at Paese Mio outdid themselves with the veal, egg-plant parmesan, chicken parmesan, ziti, salad and rolls.

2011 Conti Fromentini Friulano Collio $15 2013 Cantina Terlano Pinot Bianco Classico 16 2010 Devoscovi Ulzbach Teroldego Rotaliano 21 2010 Allegrini Palazzo Della Torre Veronese 15 2010 Zenato Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore 22 (3) 2011 Acinatico Valpolicela Classico Superiore 18 2009 Masi Costasera Amarone Classico 54 2012 Montalbera Laccento Ruche Di Castaglione 28 2009 Alleghrini Amarone Classico 59 (2) 2008 Tommaso Bussola Amarone Classico 49 2006 Recchia Ca Bertoldi Amarone 24 (3) 2006 Bertani Amarone Classico 94 (1)

The Lone Star (TX) Chapter met on October 25, at Cam-den Riverwalk Apartments clubhouse for a blind tasting. Ap-proximately 20 members and guests attended the tasting hosted by member Tom Woods. The theme was “Totally Blind” and all wines tasted were neatly wrapped—hidden from the inquiring eyes of the attendees. As each wine was poured, the only information provided was in our glasses. Upon complet-ing each rating, our host enlightened us on the varietal, pro-ducer, origin, vintage and price. This prevented any of our biases to creep into our ratings and allowed our minds to run wild as we attempted to guess the varietal and origin of the offerings. More than a few surprises!

NV Bourgrier “V” Chenin Blanc, France $10 2013 Mulderbosch Cabernet Rose’, South Africa 10 2013 Angeline Chardonnay, California 10 2012 Abbeyville Chardonnay, North Coast CA 14 2011 Baldacci “Elizabeth” Pinot Noir, Carneros CA 40 (3) 2013 Vistamar Sepia Reserva Pinot Noir, Chile 10

Chapter Events Joe Broski


2012 Winzer Krems Blauer Zweigit Privat, Austria 18 (2) 2009 Long Meadow Ranch Red Ranch, CA 30 2011 Liberty School Cab. Sauv., Paso Robles, CA 12 (1)

On October 19, the Metro Detroit (MI) Chapter held a tasting of wines from the Paso Robles area, organized and con-ducted by Tom and Kate Owens. Tom and Kate recently visited

this region in mid-California, half-way between San Francisco and Los Angeles. They toured the win-eries and found some excellent wines. Tom led the tasting, provid-ing information about the wineries

plus a detailed handout on the history, geography, growing conditions and wineries. Breads and cheeses (Danish Blue, Comté, Tipperary Cheddar) were served with the wines. The tasting was an excellent review of what is happening this re-gion that is increasingly gaining attention for high quality.

2013 Bodegas Paso Robles Garnacha $27 2013 Villa San Juliette Sauvignon Blanc 14 2012 J. Dusi Zinfandel 32 (1) 2011 Tablas Creek Esprit de Tablas 55 2011 Justin Vineyard Isosceles 75 (2) 2011 Clayhouse Show Pony Petite Sirah 40 (3)

Northern Neck Uncorked (VA) Chapter met at Belle Mount Vineyards on November 7 for an evening tasting of “French Wines,” with 25 members and 6 guests in attendance. Bill and Lorraine Jester assumed the persona of Madame and Monsieur Bouffon from Paris, France, visiting friends at the Northern Neck Uncorked. Members were magically transported to Paris and began a tour by “TGV,” the high speed train, to various wine regions in France, learning some history of the areas and tasting some of the wines produced. After the tour, the Bouffons bid “Au Revoir” to their American friends and began their return to Paris. As they left, they asked their friends to remember “Une journee sans vin est une journee sans soliel” (A day without wine is a day without sunshine!)

2011 R. Sparr Alsace One $13 (2) 2013 Domaine Fontanyl Rose de Provence $15 2012 Louis Chavy Bourgogne Grand Ordinaire $14 2012 Rasteau Ortas Cotes du Rhone Viguiers $12 (1) 2011 Chateau De Cornemps $13 NV Francois Montand Blanc de Blancs $13 (3)

The Northampton (PA) Chapter sampled the highly ac-claimed 2010 red Bordeaux vintage (rated by Robert Parker at 95-99 for Left Bank wines and 94-95 for Right Bank wines) all well selected by chief wineaux Ned Huber. Our 19 tasters agreed that this was an excellent vintage for these wines, commenting that, in some cases, the tannins were aggressive and the wines will require additional time to flesh out and come into balance. The Cabernet Sauvignon-driven Left Bank wines were favored, not unexpected as average price per bot-tle is about double the Left Bank wines. We still love the fully aged Bordeaux, as evidenced by the Lynch Bages being the winner. Chef Tom and Super Griller Ned did a superb job of preparing a great after tasting dinner of salads, grilled chicken, and cheesecake accompanied by some wonderful Sauternes. Bravo to Ned and Tom for this spectacular event.

Right Bank Gloria $50 La Grave A Pomerol 40 Le Moulin 55 Pavie Maquin 140 Gazin 79 Cannon La Gaffeliere 95 Left Bank Brane Cantenac 90 Prieure Lichine 67 Lynch Bages 160 (2) Montrose 225 (2)

Pichon Longueville 229 (2) 1998 Lynch Bages 150 (1)

The Piedmont Wine and Vine (SC) Chapter met on Sep-tember 21 at the home of John and Alice Claggett who co-hosted the tasting with Don and Val Vandersloot. The theme of the event was Wines from the Spartanburg/Greenville area. We tried 4 whites and 3 reds from North and South Carolina. Don and Val bought the wines at the vineyards and brought along literature for members interested in visiting the wineries.

NV Over Mountain Vineyard Viognier, NC $20 2012 Green Creek Winery Sauv. Blanc, NC 11 NV Over Mountain Vineyard Chardonnay, NC 22 NV Over Mountain Vineyard Petit Manseng, NC 30 NV Parker-Binns Merlot, NC 17 2012 Victoria Valley Cabernet Franc, SC 14 2011 Parker-Binns Cabernet Sauvignon, NC 23

The Princeton (NJ) Chapter was treated to a global tast-ing of Cab Franc by Elise Mannella on Sept 28. Elise prepared some absolutely wonderful foods to pair with carefully selected wines. Not one to take all the credit, Elise shared the source for her recipes!

2013 Olga Raffault Chinon Rose $16 with Heirloom tomatoes salad w/tuna confit 2010 Olga Raffault Chinon "Les Picasses" 21 2010 DiGiovanna Cabernet Franc 19 with toasts of Ratatouille and Mushroom bruschettas 2009 Almathea Cellars Cabernet Franc 19 2011 Barrister Cabernet Franc 29 with Arroz con pollo

2010 Calcu Reserve, Colchagua Valley, Chile 15 2011 Raats Family Cabernet Franc 32 with Slow-baked Lamb with fennel, Manchego, potatoes Dessert: Roasted Fruit & Cheese Plate

There is a new chapter in the state of Texas! You can be sure to you’ll hear more about the Rockwall (TX) Chapter in the next few months. Rockwall is located 32 miles southeast of Dallas, a great location for potential new members who live between the Lone Star Chapter and the Texoma Chapter in North Texas. The Rockwall Chapter had their organizing tasting on September 28 at the home of founder and Chapter Chair Mark Fake and his wife Kim. There were 14 members present including Texas RVP, Diane Szydlik. Mark led the formal com-parative tasting of Old World vs New World wines, which led into a wine pairing dinner. A 2011 Chateau St. Veran and a 2013 Rockview Chardonnay were compared, discussed and served with a variety of cheeses, nuts and fruits. Members then tasted 2010 Chateau Lanessan, 2010 Haute Medoc and 2012 Owl Ridge Alexander Valley Sauvignon Blanc with a Filet of beef and grilled asparagus. A German Wine Tasting was scheduled for November 1 at the Fake residence.

The Saraveeno (FL) Chapter celebrated its second year with a dinner and tasting on October 19, at Fin's beachfront restaurant in Venice, FL. The chapter is located in the Sarasota gulf coast area. The tasting was conducted by AWS member Rich Samale, owner of several Chilean wineries, and his asso-ciate, Mary Staley. The wines came from two of his wineries, Punti Ferrer and Valle Secreto. The Valle Secreto Cabernet/Carmenere blend was found by the tasters to be the most deli-cious selection.

On November 16, twenty one members of the Smoky Mountain Chapter (TN) met at the home of Bob & Beverly Cantine, for a ”Swiss Farm House” dinner with Swiss wines. Beverly pre-pared an outstanding menu—Swiss cabbage soup, Swiss broccoli and cauliflower salad, Alpermagronen with beet slices and ap-plesauce, and Hamantaschen cookies for des-


To be included in the AWS News, e-mail your tasting info to Joe Broski

[email protected]

Please follow the format specified for Chapter Events. It can be downloaded from the AWS website

(americanwinesociety.org—Publications—AWS Newslet-ter), or you can email Joe. Please include the cost of the wines you tasted, plus scores or rankings. This

information lets other members know what you liked and what wines were good values.

New Members by State: 1/1—11/18/2014

*DC, ME, NE, VT, WV, WY, Canada, South Africa

AL 47 IL 4 NC 125 PA 250

AZ 24 IN 21 ND 9 RI 5

CA 84 IA 4 NH 9 SC 49

CO 44 KY 11 NJ 35 TN 5

CT 11 MA 31 NM 16 TX 32

DE 13 MD 28 NV 56 VA 59

FL 68 MI 11 NY 62 WA 7

GA 32 MN 4 OH 33 WI 4

HI 11 MO 12 OR 16 Other* 12

TOTAL 1244

sert. Many thanks to Bob for spending long hours selecting and presenting the wines. The menu items were paired with the wines in the order below.

Dom. Charles Baur Cremant D’Alsace $16 (3) 2012 Luc Massy Chasselas Epesses “La Crosse” 30 (2) Lavaux 2012 Pierre-Luc Leyuraz St.-Saphorin Blanc 29 Grand Cru “Les Blassinges” Lavaux 2012 Luc Massy Pinot Noir St.-Saphorin 40 (1) “Baillival” Lavaux 2010 Ch. La Rame Ste. Croix-du-Mont “vin liquoreux”

The South Jersey (NJ) Wine Friends conducted a defini-tive tasting of Renwood Zinfandel and Zin based wines. Ren-wood is currently in the process of remarketing themselves as a Zinfandel house so several of their non-Zin wines will no longer be available outside of the winery and new labels might be on the horizon.

2011 BBQ Zinfandel 15 pts. 2011 Red Label Zinfandel 15.5 pts. 2011 The Cleaver Red Blend 15.5 pts. 2010 Clarion Red Blend 16 pts. 2011 Black Label Premier Old Vine Zin 16.5 pts. 2011 White Label Fiddletown Zinfandel 18 pts. 2011 Timberline Zinfandel 16.5 pts. 2010 Special Reserve Grandpere Zin 18 pts.

The first meeting of the Southport (NC) Chapter was held on November 14 at the Bolivia Holiday Inn Express. Our inau-gural meeting had 13 members and 25 guests in attendance. After an introduction to the American Wine Society and the basics of wine tasting and sensory evaluation of wine, we got down to sampling the wines—Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Tempranillo, Petite Sirah (Durif) and Cabernet Sauvignon. Hot and cold hors d’oeuvres made by the great chefs Vicki Caruso and Gale Sullivan were paired with all the wines.

2012 Columbia Crest H3 Cabernet Sauvignon $15 (1) 2013 Line 39 Petite Sirah 11 (2) 2013 Dr. L Riesling 14 (3) 2009 Aptus Ribera del Duero Tempranillo 11 2012 Acrobat Pinot Noir 20 2012 Chateau Ste. Michelle “Mimi” Chardonnay 15

The Worcester (MA) Chapter met on November 8 at the tasting room of Contessa Imports. Thirty members and guests were present. Owners and hosts Peter Matysiak and Paula Meo-la generously provided their estate bottled wines, a selection of appetizers, and a delicious chicken and pasta dinner to the group for free. The group learned about the federal and state regulatory challenges that are faced by a small importer. Wine pourer Jean-Pierre Morin described how the wine’s character is influenced by the stony soils, sun exposure and age of the vines. The group also learned about the modern innovation that goes into the blending of white wines near Montalcino.

2012 Contessa Meola Sant’Antimo Bianco DOC $15 2011 Contessa Meola Rosso di Montalcino DOC 22 2009 Contessa Meola Brunello di Montalcino DOC 39

Robert Hutton AWS Historian and long-time member Bob Hutton died Oct. 19 at the age of 82. Bob attended and spoke at many

National Conferences, with a focus on Eastern European wines. Educated at Haverford College, he served in the Army during the Korean War, then worked for the NSA and Library of Congress. He was a member of Northern Vir-ginia and John Marshall AWS Chapters, Power Squadron,

and American Association of Geographers. He is survived by 4 children, 1 sister and 6 grandchildren. Donations in his memory can be made to the AWSEF.

Dennis E. Irwin Dennis Irwin, 58, passed away unexpectedly on October 18. A graduate of Penn State University with a degree in

health planning and administration, he served in the US Air Force, and he was employed as a supervisor for the Pennsyl-vania Department of Public Welfare for over 21 years. He was a member of the Laurel Highlands Chapter. Dennis enjoyed music, golfing, hunting and spending time with his grandchildren. He was a great storyteller who enjoyed making people laugh. He is

survived by his wife Sheila, his mother, a brother, 2 sis-ters, 4 children and 8 grandchildren.

Maureen Thielens Maureen Schmidt Thielens, wife of Alexis Thielens, passed away suddenly at home on November 7 at the age of 73. The Thielens are long-time, active members of Premier Cru chapter in suburban Philadelphia, frequent attendees of regional events and national conferences, and generous donors to the AWSEF auctions for many years. A beautiful service was held Nov. 15 at Washington Memorial Chapel in Valley Forge National Park, where Maureen and Alexis were members of the chapel choir and volunteers. Survi-vors include Alexis, a step-daughter and 3 grandchildren.

Obituaries

In last year’s Treasurer’s Report, it was noted that that the 2012 Conference in Portlandhad attendance exceeding expectations and our membership continued to expand at areasonable growth rate. Sandusky in 2013 again exceeded our expectations and proj-jectons allowing for over $39,000 in operating income for Fiscal Year 2014, which endedAugust 21, 2014.

At the end of fiscal year 2014, the Society again has a reasonable “rainy day fund” and we are over half way to our goal. The short term goal is to maintain a reserve of $200,000 while building membership. As we look forward to fiscal 2015, we see that we again willwill have good attendance at the Concord conference and our Conference the Boardbudget again calls for a small profit. This year reemphasized the importance of providing service to our current and future members by supporting the formation of new chapters.

Your Board of Directors has been working on letting the world know of our existence through promotion of AWS and our Commercial Wine Competition at selected events. Our future growth lies with increased membership, more chapters and increased involve-ment with regional events. Together we must continue to keep the American WineSociety a relevant and viable organization as it has been for the last 46 years. Weremain committed to the Society’s mission of wine education and wine making.

I would like to thank each and every one for their support for the last 3 years. I look forward to retirement from the Board of Directors in January.

ASSETS 2014 2013 2012 CURRENT ASSETS Cash - Checking $6,671 $25,527 $11,682 Cash - Savings 454,378 328,967 322,439 Total Cash 461,049 354,494 334,121 Accounts Receivable 0 9 9 Conference and Committee Advances 24,334 13,768 16,296 Prepaid Expenses 15,210 14,278 15,895 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 500,593 382,549 366,321

FIXED ASSETS Equipment (at cost) 15,405 15,405 15,405 Accumulated Depreciation (11,458) (9,544) (9,544) TOTAL FIXED ASSETS 3,948 5,862 5,862TOTAL ASSETS $504,541 $388,411 $372,183

LIABILITIES AND FUND BALANCE CURRENT LIABILITIES Accounts Payable & Wages Payable $0 $0 $0 Accrued Payroll Taxes 2,165 2,434 2,289 Deferred Revenue - Membership Dues 94,860 80,256 68,537 Deferred Revenue - Annual Conference 239,504 176,179 193,574 TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 336,529 258,869 264,400

FUND BALANCE Unrestricted 113,469 74,999 53,240 Restricted 54,543 54,543 54,543 TOTAL FUND BALANCE 168,012 129,542 107,783

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND FUND BALANCE $504,541 $388,411 $372,183

American Wine SocietyBalance Sheet

As of August 31, 2014, 2013, 2012

Treasurer's ReportWalt Rachele


REVENUE 2014 % Total Rev 2013 % Total Rev 2012 % Total Rev Membership Dues $152,480 37.0% $148,543 35.9% $143,753 36.2% Conference Fees and Income 196,378 47.6% 204,560 49.4% 210,746 53.1% Book & Resale Items 1,141 0.3% 1,391 0.3% 927 0.2% Journal Advertising 3,052 0.7% 3,326 0.8% 4,401 1.1% Interest Income 94 0.0% 74 0.0% 123 0.0% Wine & Label Competitions 49,585 12.0% 47,935 11.6% 31,822 8.0% WJTP Income (See Note 6 below) 9,350 2.3% 5,360 1.3% 0 0.0% Other income 556 0.1% 2,625 0.6% 5,193 1.3%TOTAL REVENUE $412,637 100.0% $413,814 100.0% $396,965 100.0%

EXPENSES Conference $126,936 30.8% $143,722 34.7% $145,608 36.7% Wine Competitions 35,775 8.7% 35,504 8.6% 23,690 6.0% Journal: Printing/ Graphics and Art/Photo 31,538 7.6% 28,615 6.9% 25,026 6.3% Mailing/ Delivery 2,469 0.6% 1,770 0.4% 4,198 1.1% Editor and Asst. Editor Compensation 5,000 1.2% 5,000 1.2% 5,000 1.3% Total Journal Expenses $39,007 9.5% $35,385 8.6% $34,225 8.6%

Administrative Expenses: Director/ Officer Travel (See Note 7 Below) $14,825 3.6% $19,268 4.7% $13,815 3.5% Telephone & Internet 3,519 0.9% 4,010 1.0% 3,760 0.9% Printing/ Copying 3,751 0.9% 2,573 0.6% 1,255 0.3% Mailing/ Delivery 5,039 1.2% 2,558 0.6% 2,433 0.6% Membership Certifications (See Note 4 Below) 5,443 1.3% 9,976 2.4% 7,857 2.0% Office Supplies 475 0.1% 762 0.2% 771 0.2% Books for Resale 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% Executive Assistant 45,000 10.9% 45,000 10.9% 45,000 11.3% Executive Director Salary (See Note 5 Below) 42,000 10.2% 42,000 10.1% 42,000 10.6% Payroll Expenses 8,097 2.0% 8,074 2.0% 7,808 2.0% Promotional Expense (See Note 7 Below) 59 0.0% 1,016 0.2% 8,955 2.3% Executive Director Transition 2,683 0.7% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% Newsletter & Special Publications 4,375 1.1% 4,205 1.0% 3,319 0.8% Insurance 6,387 1.5% 6,335 1.5% 6,569 1.7% Depreciation 1,914 0.5% 0 0.0% 210 0.1% Website & Database Development 8,423 2.0% 11,491 2.8% 8,987 2.3% Bank and Credit Card Fees 11,658 2.8% 9,994 2.4% 4,594 1.2% Office Rent & Utilities 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% WJTP Expenses (See Note 6 Below) 4,521 1.1% 3,320 0.8% 0 0.0% Miscellaneous 3,257 0.8% 6,862 1.7% 10,275 2.6% Total Administrative Expenses $171,426 41.5% $177,445 42.9% $167,608 42.2%

TOTAL EXPENSES $373,143 90.4% $392,055 94.7% $371,131 93.5%SURPLUS (DEFICIT) $39,494 9.6% $21,759 5.3% $25,834 6.5%

FUND BALANCE BEGINNING OF YEAR $73,564 $51,805 $25,971 RESTRICTED DONATIONS 0 0 0FUND BALANCE END OF YEAR $113,058 $73,564 $51,805

Notes:1. The Society operates on a fiscal year ending August 31st, and the Financial Statements are prepared on the accrual basis2. Membership dues are collected on a calendar year basis and recognized as income on a prorata basis during the fiscal year. Lifetime dues are amortized yearly based on annual dues amounts until exhausted.3. Depreciation is on a straight line basis over 3, and 5 years.4. The "Membership Certifications" account started in 2011 to show costs of membership ID items sent members5. Additional portion of Executive Director salary is included in Conference expense6. Prior to 2013 WJTP income and expenses were considered part of Miscellaneous Income/Expenses7. The "Promotional Expense" account was started in 2012 to show the costs of marketing initiatives for AWS. In 2013 & 2014 a portion of travel expense was for promotional puposes.

American Wine SocietyStatement of Income and Fund Balance

For the Fiscal Years Ending August 21, 2014, 2013, 2012


AWS News – December 2014

2014 National Tasting Project Spanish Wines

An Adventure for the Palate The National Tasting Project gives AWS chapters across the US the opportunity to sample the same group of wines in a blind tasting. This year 68 chapters, representing 1,517 tasters in 26 different states participated in the NTP. This is about the same great participation rate as 2012 and 2013.

Each participating chapter selected 6 wines from a list of 9. The choices included: 2 white Albariños from Rias Baxas 3 red Tempranillos from Rioja 4 red Tempranillos from the Ribero del Duero

The wines were tasted blind and scored on the AWS 20-point scale. The results show that The favorite wines were Abadia Retuerta and Condado de Haza, both tempranillos from the Ribera del Duero. Three wines scored in the AWS silver medal range (15.0-16.9). All of the remaining wines scored in the AWS bronze medal range (13.0-14.9). The more expensive wines generally scored higher than the less expensive ones. Ramon Bilbao Valinas, Emilio Moro and Torremoron were good values.

The following table shows the average scores for the participants and the graduate wine judges (WJ). The last 2 columns show the percentage of the chapters that tasted the wine and rated them as the favorite and in the top 3.

Thanks to all the groups who participated and submitted results.

No. Wine Tasters Average Cost

Average Score

Wine Judge

Average Score

Favorite Wine

(percent of chapters)

In Top 3 Wines

(percent of chapters)

W1 2011 Pazo de Senorans Albariño 1,225 $23 14.1 14.6 5% 27%

W2 2012 Bodegas Ramon Bilbao Valinas Albariño 1,394 $15 14.5 14.4 8% 41%

R1 2009 Bodegas Muga Reserva 1,059 $26 15.0 15.0 19% 63%

R2 2004 La Rioja Alta Vina Ardanza Reserva 744 $32 14.6 14.9 17% 58%

R3 2010 Cune Crianza 1,012 $14 14.3 14.2 0% 25%

D1 2012 Emilio Moro Finca Resalso 712 $15 14.8 14.9 21% 62%

D2 2012 Vinos Torremoron Tempranillo 795 $14 14.5 15.1 5% 42%

D3 2009 Abadia Retuerta Seleccion Especial 531 $29 16.1 16.1 48% 100%

D4 2009 Condado de Haza Ribera del Duero Tinto 867 $27 15.7 16.2 61% 89%

Oahu

Smoky Mountain Sonoita Raritan Valley

Cleveland

2014 AWS Amateur Wine Competition

Best in Class Awards

Tim Traxler 2012 Riesling Best of Show & Best White

Gordon Gribble 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Best Red Wine

Terry Britton 2014 50% Blueberry, 50% Black Raspberry Best Fruit Wine

Marion Kraus 2013 Cranberry Best Dessert Wine

Tim Traxler 2013 75% Chardonnay, 15% Sauv. Blanc, 10% Muscat Best Kit Wine

Dean Scott 2013 Petit Verdot Best Wine Label

Winemaker Vintage Varietals Award Winemaker Vintage Varietals Award

Agness, Randy 2013 DeChaunac, Noiret, Chambourcin Bronze Carson, Frank 2013 Central Valley Old Vine Zinfandel Bronze

Agness, Randy 2013 Cayuga white, Seyval Blanc Bronze Chomoa, Martin & Rae-Rita 2013 Niagara Bronze

Agness, Randy 2013 Catawba Bronze Chomoa, Martin & Rae-Rita 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Bronze

Agness, Randy 2012 Riesling Bronze Conlin, Roger 2012 Merlot Silver

Allen, Robert Ethan 2014 Red Raspberry Double Gold Creasy, Chris 2012 Old Vine Zin, Cab Sauv, Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot Gold

Baldieri, Lee & Thomas, Bob 2012 Merlot Gold Creasy, Chris 2012 Malbec, Cab Sauv, Merlot, Cab Franc Silver

Baldieri, Lee & Thomas, Bob 2012 Chardonnay Silver Crews, Michael &

Andrew 2010 Pinot Noir Gold

Baldieri, Lee & Thomas, Bob 2013 Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Silver Crews, Michael &

Andrew 2010 Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec Gold

Bashline, Logan 2013 Riesling, Gewurztraminer Bronze Crews, Michael & Andrew 2012 Syrah, Grenache Silver

Beers, Lamont 2013 Strawberry, Black Raspberry Double Gold Crews, Michael & Andrew 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec Silver

Beers, Lamont 2012 Strawberry, Chardonnay, Black Raspberry Gold Crews, Michael & Andrew 2011 Syrah Bronze

Beers, Lamont 2013 Catawba Gold Cutt, Greg 2013 Cabernet Franc Silver

Beers, Lamont 2012 Diamond Gold Dersham, Ron 2013 Apple, Pear Double Gold

Beers, Lamont 2012 Riesling Silver Dersham, Ron 2013 Pear Bronze

Beers, Lamont 2012 Vidal Silver Di Ponzio, Joe 2012 California Old Vine Zinfandel Gold

Beers, Lamont 2012 Valvin Muscat Silver Di Ponzio, Joe 2013 California Grenache Silver

Beers, Lamont 2013 Pinot Gris Silver Diehl, Mark W. 2011 Zinfandel, Petite Sirah Double Gold

Beers, Lamont 2012 Muscat Ottonel Silver Diehl, Mark W. 2010 Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Cab Sauv Double Gold

Beers, Lamont 2011 Traminette, Riesling Silver Diehl, Mark W. 2009 Zinfandel Gold

Beers, Lamont 2010 Riesling, Traminette Silver Diehl, Mark W. 2013 Zinfandel GoldBeers, Lamont 2013 Strawberry, Honey and Water Bronze Diehl, Mark W. 2013 Zinfandel, Petite Sirah GoldBeers, Lamont 2013 Chardonnay, Merlot Bronze Diehl, Mark W. 2013 Merlot SilverBeers, Lamont 2010 Vignoles Bronze Diehl, Mark W. 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon SilverBeers, Lamont 2011 Catawba Bronze Diehl, Mark W. 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon SilverBerrett, Ira 2014 White Nectarine Bronze Diehl, Mark W. 2013 Sangiovese SilverBerrett, Ira 2014 Honey Bronze Diehl, Mark W. 2010 Tempranillo SilverBilenchi, Robert 2014 Black Currant Port Gold Diehl, Mark W. 2013 Petite Sirah SilverBohn, Jim & Margi 2012 Meritage Bronze Diehl, Mark W. 2010 Zinfandel, Petite Sirah SilverBoulas, Nicholas 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, Chilean Bronze Diehl, Mark W. 2010 Petite Syrah SilverBozic, Robert G. 2013 Syrah Silver Diehl, Mark W. 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon SilverBozic, Robert G. 2013 Malbec Bronze Diehl, Mark W. 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot BronzeBritton, Terry D. 2014 Black Raspberry, Blueberry Double Gold Downie, Kathianne 2011 Seyval, Riesling SilverBritton, Terry D. 2014 Black Raspberry Gold Downie, Kathianne 2011 Vignoles BronzeBrown, Daniel 2013 Montmorency Sour Cherries Gold Everson, Paul 2013 Minnesota La Crescent Double GoldBrown, Daniel 2013 Riesling Silver Fao, Joe 2011 Blackberry, Chianti SilverBrown, Daniel 2013 Patriot Blueberries Silver Fao, Joe 2011 Nero D'Avola SilverBrown, Daniel 2013 Riesling Silver Fao, Joe 2012 Chocolate flavored Cherry SilverBrown, Daniel 2013 Petit Verdot, Riesling Bronze Fao, Joe 2011 Shiraz BronzeBrown, Daniel 2013 Petit Verdot Bronze Fao, Joe 2011 Zinfandel Bronze

Brown, Daniel 2013 Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot Bronze Finley, Christine & Steve 2011 Malbec Silver

Brunkhorst, Steve & Maggi 2013 Chardonel Silver Finley, Christine &

Steve 2012 Mourvedre, Syrah, Malbec Silver

Brunkhorst, Steve & Maggi 2013 Cayuga White Silver Finley, Christine &

Steve 2010 Tempranillo Bronze

Buell, Larry 2011 Leon Millot Silver Fiola, Joe 2012 Cabernet Franc Double GoldBuell, Larry 2012 Esprit Silver Fiola, Joe 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon SilverBurns, Adam 2013 Zinfandel, Petite Sirah Silver Fiola, Joe 2010 Barbera SilverCapotosto, Luke & Barbara Medeires 2013 Wineberry Double Gold Fiola, Joe 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Silver

Capotosto, Luke & Barbara Medeires 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Double Gold Fiola, Joe 2011 Chambourcin Amarone Bronze

Capotosto, Luke & Barbara Medeires 2011 Cabernet Franc Silver Fiola, Joe 2012 Albarino, 54-36-34 Bronze

Capotosto, Luke & Barbara Medeires 2012 Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon Silver Fiola, Joe 2010 Malvesia Negra Bronze

Capotosto, Luke & Barbara Medeires 2013 Chardonnay Bronze Fiola, Joe 2012 Chenin Blanc, XX1551 Bronze

Capotosto, Luke & Barbara Medeires 2012 Petite Sirah, Primitivo Bronze Fiola, Joe 2012 Linea Bronze

Carson, Frank 2011 Central Valley Old Vine Zinfandel Silver Fisher, Jeffrey & Donna L. Fisher 2013 Cab Sauvignon, Carmenere, Cabernet Franc,

Merlot Gold

Carson, Frank 2012 Central Valley Old Vine Zinfandel Bronze Frederick, Richard & Zenna 2012 Barbera Silver

Medals Awarded, by Winemaker



Winemaker Vintage Varietals Award Winemaker Vintage Varietals AwardFrederick, Richard & Zenna 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Bronze Kraus, Marion 2013 Red Raspberry, Red Currant, Strawberry Double Gold

Fredrickson, Jim 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cab Franc Silver Kraus, Marion 2013 Red Raspberry, Strawberry Double GoldFredrickson, Jim 2011 Syrah, Viognier Bronze Kraus, Marion 2013 Traminette GoldFurfaro, Darrell 2013 Pinot Grigio Double Gold Kraus, Marion 2013 Red Raspberry, Gooseberry SilverFurfaro, Darrell 2012 Nero d'Avola Silver Kraus, Marion 2013 Black Currant, Red Currant, Gooseberry SilverFurfaro, Darrell 2011 Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon Silver Kraus, Marion 2013 Seyval SilverFurfaro, Darrell 2011 Vignoles Bronze Kraus, Marion 2013 Black Raspberry SilverFurfaro, Darrell 2012 Nebbillo Bronze Kraus, Marion 2013 Blackberry, Black Raspberry BronzeFurfaro, Darrell 2012 Gewurztraminer, Riesling Bronze Kraus, Marion 2013 Cayuga BronzeGalaz, Leandro 2010 Cab Sauvignon, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot Silver Kraus, Marion 2013 Blueberry BronzeGalaz, Leandro 2010 Merlot, Cab Franc, Black Malavoise Silver Kraus, Marion 2013 Blackberry BronzeGalaz, Leandro 2009 Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon Bronze Kraus, Marion 2013 Red Currant BronzeGallagher, John W. 2012 Amarone Bronze LeRoux, Tom & Kim 2011 Frontenac, Cab Franc, Chambourcin SilverGallagher, John W. 2012 Pinot Grigio Bronze LeRoux, Tom & Kim 2012 Cabernet Franc Bronze

Gallagher, John W. 2012 Barolo Bronze Michels, Serena / Mah Hanlon 2012 Cabernet Franc Bronze

Gallagher, John W. 2012 Brunello Bronze Michels, Serena / Mah Hanlon 2012 Riesling Bronze

Gaunter, Donald 2013 Pinot Gris Silver Montgomery, Scott 2012 Norton, Conquistador SilverGaunter, Donald 2013 Vidal Blanc Silver Montgomery, Scott 2013 Syrah, Conquistador BronzeGaunter, Donald 2013 Kerner Silver Montgomery, Scott 2012 Norton BronzeGaunter, Donald 2013 Riesling Silver Montgomery, Scott 2013 Blanc du Bois, Villard Blanc BronzeGaunter, Donald 2013 Gewurztraminer Silver Moore, Bruce 2013 Carmenere BronzeGaunter, Donald 2013 Mueller Thurgau Silver Moore, Phil 2014 Monastrell, Tempranillo, Petit Verdot SilverGaunter, Donald 2013 Seyval Silver Mulfinger, John 2006 Sherry Cream - Chardonnay Double GoldGaunter, Donald 2013 Chardonnay Silver Mulfinger, John 2013 Traminette Double GoldGaunter, Donald 2013 Ortega Silver Mulfinger, John 2012 Blueberry SilverGaunter, Donald 2012 Cabernet Franc Bronze Mulfinger, John 2013 Sangiovese, Nebbiolo SilverGaunter, Donald 2013 Traminette Bronze Mulfinger, John 2013 Frontenac SilverGaunter, Donald 2012 Merlot Bronze Mulfinger, John 2011 Peppermint BronzeGaunter, Donald 2013 Melody Bronze Mulfinger, John 2012 Sangiovese BronzeGaunter, Donald 2013 Sauvignon Blanc Bronze Nardelli, Joseph 2012 Delaware, Unknown, Concord SilverGaunter, Donald 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Bronze Nelson, Chris 2013 Blackberry Bronze

Gerardi, Paul 2013 Cab Sauvignon, Petit Verdot Bronze Nettles, Donnie R. & Betty 2013 Barbera Silver

Gerber, John & Kate 2012 Pinot Noir, Syrah Bronze Nettles, Donnie R. & Betty 2012 Montepulciano Bronze

Gorze, Jeffrey 2013 Chambourcin, Vidal Silver Nettles, Donnie R. & Betty 2013 Chenin Blanc Bronze

Gower, Chuck/ Dipanfilo, Cheryl 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Gold Noorman, Greg 2012 Cab Franc, Merlot, Cab Sauvignon Gold

Gower, Chuck/ Dipanfilo, Cheryl 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Gold Noorman, Greg 2012 Merlot Rose Gold

Gower, Chuck/ Dipanfilo, Cheryl 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Silver Noorman, Greg 2011 Cabernet Franc Silver

Gower, Chuck/ Dipanfilo, Cheryl 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Silver Noorman, Greg 2012 Cab Franc Bronze

Gower, Chuck/ Dipanfilo, Cheryl 2012 Pinot Noir Silver Noorman, Greg 2012 Pinot Noir Bronze

Gower, Chuck/ Dipanfilo, Cheryl 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Bronze Oren, Rett 2013 Riesling Silver

Graves, Gary 2012 Pineapple, Banana Double Gold Oren, Rett 2013 Kerner SilverGraves, Gary 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Bronze Oren, Rett 2012 Lemberger SilverGribble, Gordon W. 2013 Riesling Double Gold Oren, Rett 2013 Valvin Muscat SilverGribble, Gordon W. 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Double Gold Oren, Rett 2013 Seyval, Traminette SilverGribble, Gordon W. 2013 Vidal, Cabernet Sauvignon Double Gold Oren, Rett 2013 Vidal, Muscat, Chardonnay SilverGribble, Gordon W. 2013 Gewürztraminer Silver Oren, Rett 2013 Chambourcin, Lemberger SilverGribble, Gordon W. 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Silver Oren, Rett 2013 Traminette, Gewurztraminer, Seyval SilverGribble, Gordon W. 2013 Traminette Silver Oren, Rett 2013 Traminette, Seyval Bronze

Gribble, Gordon W. NV Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec 2012-13 Silver Oren, Rett 2013 Gewurztraminer, Traminette Bronze

Gribble, Gordon W. 2013 Vidal Blanc Bronze Oren, Rett 2014 Viognier BronzeGribble, Gordon W. 2012 Chardonnay Bronze Outlaw, Bill & Nedra 2014 Blueberry & fermentation blend BronzeGribble, Gordon W. 2012 Petite Verdot Bronze Palminotto, Anthony 2011 Merlot, Cab Franc Silver

Gribble, Gordon W. NV Port - Cabernet Sauvignon 50, Blueberry 25, Malbec 25 2012-2013 Bronze Palminotto, Anthony 2012 Syrah, Cab Sauv Bronze

Gruber, Al 2012 Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon Silver Palminotto, Anthony 2011 Primitivo, Syrah BronzeHaddaway, Randy 2013 Petite Syrah Silver Pavlis, Gary C. 2004 Chambourcin BronzeHale, Russell B. 2014 Meyer Lemon Bronze Pedrak, Stephen B. 2014 Syrah, Grenache Double GoldIurato, Frank 2013 Riesling, Apple Double Gold Pedrak, Stephen B. 2013 Montepulciano SilverJohnson, Benjamin 2014 Kiwi, Strawberry Double Gold Pedrak, Stephen B. 2013 Amarone SilverJohnson, Benjamin 2014 Strawberry, Blueberry Silver Pedrak, Stephen B. 2013 Zinfandel SilverKeblish, Nicholas 2012 Fig Double Gold Pedrak, Stephen B. 2013 Brunello SilverKoempel, John 2012 Muscat Silver Pedrak, Stephen B. 2012 Pinot Noir Bronze

Koempel, John 2010 Malbec Silver Petrucci , Emanuella & Mark Haskins 2013 Borolo Silver

Koempel, John 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Bronze Phillips, Richard 2013 Chardonnay SilverKoempel, John NV Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc Bronze Phillips, Richard 2013 Wineberry Bronze

Koempel, John 2010 Petite Syrah Bronze Piancone, Louis & Madeline 2013 Chardonnay Silver

Koempel, John 2011 Lemberger Bronze Piancone, Louis & Madeline 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot,

Merlot Silver

Kraus, Marion 2013 Cranberry Double Gold Piancone, Louis & Madeline 2012 Petite Sirah, Barbera Silver

Kraus, Marion 2013 Red Raspberry, Red Currant Double Gold Piancone, Louis & Madeline 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah Silver

Kraus, Marion 2013 Red Raspberry Double Gold Piancone, Louis & Madeline 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cab Franc, Petit

Verdot Bronze



Winemaker Vintage Varietals Award Winemaker Vintage Varietals AwardKraus, Marion 2013 Strawberry, Red Currant Double Gold Prendergast, Larry 2012 Chardonnay SilverPrendergast, Larry 2012 Kerner Bronze Stopper, Edward 2013 St. Pepin, Briana Double GoldRiggle, Ivan and Mary 2013 Purple Basil, Hot Pepper Silver Stopper, Edward 2013 Steuben, NY Muscat, Niagara Silver

Riggle, Ivan and Mary 2014 Strawberry Bronze Stopper, Edward 2013 Steuben Silver

Roccograndi, Francis Jr. 2013 Chardonnay #1 Silver Stopper, Edward 2013 Concord Silver

Roccograndi, Francis Jr. 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Silver Stopper, Edward 2013 Niagara Silver

Roccograndi, Francis Jr. 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Silver Stopper, Edward 2012 Noiret Bronze

Roccograndi, Francis Jr. 2013 Merlot Bronze Stopper, Edward 2012 Norton Bronze

Roccograndi, Francis Jr. 2013 Chardonnay #2 Bronze Stopper, Edward 2013 Pear Bronze

Roccograndi, Francis Jr. 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Merlot,

Cabernet Franc Bronze Szaro, Robert 2013 Minnoiret - New Hybrid Silver

Roccograndi, Francis Jr. 2013 Sauvignon Blanc Bronze Szaro, Robert 2014 Killarney Red Raspberry, Taylor Red Raspberry Silver

Russo, James G. 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Gold Szaro, Robert 2012 Blueberry Port Silver

Russo, James G. 2013 Old Vine Zin, Barbera Bronze Tackett, R. Allen & Elizabeth 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Silver

Saccoman, John & Inna 2012 Cab Franc Bronze Terry, Dale 2013 Chilean Malbec Double Gold

Schlachter, Mel 2013 LaCrosse, St. Pepin Silver Terry, Dale 2013 Riesling Bronze

Schlachter, Mel 2013 Cherry Silver Topolski, Mark & Soo-Ting 2013 Peach Melomel - Peaches & Honey Bronze

Schlachter, Mel 2013 Zinfandel Silver Traxler, Tim 2013 Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat Double Gold

Schlachter, Mel 2013 Zinfandel Port Bronze Traxler, Tim 2012 Riesling Double Gold

Schlachter, Mel NV Chambourcin, Norton Bronze Traxler, Tim 2013 Red Raspberry Double Gold

Scott, Dean 2013 Petit Verdot, Cab Franc, Merlot Bronze Traxler, Tim 2011 Syrah SilverSeluk, Larry 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Silver Traxler, Tim 2013 Sauvignon Blanc SilverSeluk, Larry 2013 Winesap Apple Bronze Traxler, Tim 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Bronze

Siegel, Mark & Ginny 2013 Sangiovese Silver Traxler, Tim 2013 Strawberry Bronze

Smothergill, Daniel 2013 Iona, Chardonnay Bronze Traxler, Tim 2012 Chardonnay - Unoaked Bronze

Smoulder, Daniel 2013 Vidal Silver Traxler, Tim 2011 Chardonnay BronzeSmoulder, Daniel 2013 Vidal Silver Traxler, Tim 2010 Pinot Noir Bronze

Spaziani, Gene NV Muscat, Chardonnay Gold Vermette, Richard 2007 Cabernet Franc Silver

Spaziani, Gene NV Riesling, Pinot Gris Silver Vermette, Richard 2013 Chardonnay BronzeSpaziani, Gene NV Sauv Blanc, Riesling Silver Vitiello, Michael & Jill 2012 Merlot, Cab Sauvignon SilverSpaziani, Gene NV Chardonnay, Riesling, Niagara Silver Vosel, Dan 2013 Apple Bronze

Spaziani, Gene NV Syrah, Cab Sauv, Cab Franc, Zin, Temp, Mourvedre, Carignan Silver Watson, Jerry 2013 Blanc Du Bois Silver

Spaziani, Gene NV Chardonnay, Muscat Bronze Westman, Michael 2013 Cayuga, Chancellor, Vignoles SilverSperk, Jim 2013 Peach, Viognier Silver Westman, Michael 2013 Clover Honey, Peach SilverSperk, Jim NV Port - Zinfandel, Petite Sirah Bronze Westman, Michael 2013 Chancellor, Leon Millot, Cab Franc SilverSperk, Jim 2014 Cranberry Bronze Westman, Michael 2013 Bartlett Pear, Mixed Apples BronzeSperk, Jim 2014 Cranberry Bronze Westman, Michael 2013 Cayuga, Vignoles BronzeSt. Pierre, Barry & Sissy 2012 Zinfandel/Primitivo Silver Westman, Michael 2013 St. Pepin, Vignoles Bronze

St. Pierre, Barry & Sissy 2013 Chardonnay, Pinot Gris Silver Wilen, Bill 2013 Riesling Silver

St. Pierre, Barry & Sissy 2013 Cayuga, Vignoles, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris Bronze Woods, Walter 2012 Chardonnay Gold

St. Pierre, Barry & Sissy 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Bronze Woods, Walter 2012 Riesling Gold

St. Pierre, Barry & Sissy 2012 Syrah Bronze Woods, Walter 2013 Viognier Bronze

St. Pierre, Barry & Sissy 2012 Cab Sauvignon, Syrah, Primitivo Bronze Woods, Walter 2013 Sauvignon Blanc Bronze

Stallard, Matthew 2013 Cab Sauvignon, Malbec, Carmenere Gold Woods, Walter 2013 Riesling BronzeStopper, Edward 2013 Raspberry, Currant Double Gold



Let me start off by saying thank you very much to all who participated in the annual AWSEF silent auction this year at the AWS National Conference. Jim High did a phenomenal job of leading this year’s auction; so hats off to you Jim! It’s going to be difficult to find an auction item as talked about as the bottle of Thunderbird was this year, but we like the challenge and dare you to look in your own collections and pull out something special to donate next year! The silent auction raised over $4,500 on more than 100 items received from loyal AWS members, AWSEF supporters, wineries and small businesses. We appreciate the feedback that we received to get local businesses around the conference location involved in the auction for next year and we will definitely work on that.

On a special note, the AWSEF collected over $6,500 in donations throughout the AWS National Conference. In my 5 years as a Trustee, this was a record high! Words cannot express my gratitude to all those who donated and are helping us ful-fill our mission.

Updates on things we are working on & important items we wanted to pass along:

We have a new Treasurer: Walt Rachele. You may recognize the name...he is the current Treasurer for the AWS and a former Trustee of the AWSEF. He can be reached at [email protected].

We created a Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Awsef.org. We plan on having "where are they now" segments with past scholarship winners, as well as wine news and fun.

We have added a news section to our website https://www.awsef.org, which will showcase creative ways local AWS chapters fundraise. Please send any chapter fundraising pictures and events and all suggestions about what else you want to see on our website to Patricia at [email protected].

Please check out our 2014 Scholarship Recipient Video located on our website and on our Facebook page. Please share this video with your local chapter members and friends. We received wonderful feedback from AWS National Conference attendees and wanted to pass it along to those that could not attend.

We are actively working towards becoming a more interactive Foundation with both previous and prospective students, with the Universities and professors recommending students, with the AWS membership and with people who have a genuine wine in-terest or are related to the wine industry. With that said, if you have any suggestions on things that you would like to see, please let us know. Thank you for your continued support of the AWSEF.

Happy holidays to all!

Bonnie [email protected]

AWS Educational Foundation Bonnie Huber

2015 National Tasting Project Rege Duralia

Many of you probably have heard that the topic for the 2015 NTP is Austro-Hungarian wines, which should be very interesting. By contemporary thought, the wine growing re-gions in these 2 countries are often overlooked but they may be very well kept secrets. The history of wine making in both countries dates back to Roman times (BC). Austria has 4 major wine growing regions: Lower Austria, Burgenland, Styria and Vienna. Hungary, on the other hand, has 8. Austria predominantly makes white wines but the reds can be quite extraordinary. Grüner Veltliner and Weiss-burgunder (Pinot Blanc) are the most important white grapes. The reds are Blaufränkisch (Lemburger) and Zweigelt. Spar-kling and Eiswein are also produced.

In Hungary, Tokay Aszú, Egri Bikavér (a sweet white wine), and a full-bodied red wine known as “Bull’s Blood” are proba-bly the best known outside of the country. However, for a n area about the size of Maine, a wide range of grapes are grown, some of which even avid wine fans may not know – Furmint, Hárslevelű, and Kékfrankos - so there will be a lot to choose from.

The NTP team is in the process of sourcing the wines and are looking forward to exploring the offerings from these 2 coun-tries. Look for more information in the February AWS News.

Rege [email protected]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=dLHyZydJR84&app=desktop

AWS News American Wine Society® P. O. Box 279 Englewood, OH 45322

Address Service Requested

We have completed another great year in the wine judge certification program. We gradu-ated 5 new wine judges and 2 wine judge graduates have recertified for 5 years. We will begin preparations for the 2015 class year soon and anticipate starting our telecon-ferences in late January.

Congratulations to the new judges who completed the course this year and are now free of the need for teleconferences and fault testing for 5 years: William Fish, Rick Jelovsek, Sandy Jelovsek, Bennie Lindeque and Mel Schlachter. We expect they will continue to remain active with the AWS and with the program for years to come.

People who graduated the WJCP in the past will always be wine judge graduates. However, the AWS requires recertifica-tion every 5 years for those who wished to be recommended by the Society for competitions. Recertification is completed by passing the same final examination that is taken by students in the program. This year, we congratulate Eleanor Phillips and Jeff Gorze on becoming recertified.

The WJCP anticipates putting on another spring class for first years this year. The location and date isn’t final yet, but it looks like we will present the class in St Louis, Missouri in mid-March. As with last year, the class will take a full day. The cost of the spring program is higher (we have to get space for the class and bring in the instructors). but it is a wonderful oppor-tunity to cut time off the program by taking the first year in March and the second year that November at the conference. Anyone interested in taking the spring class should contact the program coordinator. There is a great deal of work to be done, so do not delay.

Those who want to enter the program in November should also contact the program coordinator soon—the class has sold out the last two years. Teleconferences will commence in January, so students will want to purchase the wines and commence their studies. While attending the teleconferences is not re-quired, it is highly recommended. Students have indicated they are very helpful in learning to judge wines.

We send a hearty thank you to all the instructors in the pro-gram for their hard work this year. A great deal of effort and time is required to put the classes together. Their dedication is greatly appreciated.

Aaron [email protected]

Wine Judge Certification Aaron Mandel

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