Erin Michele Soto Rises Through Her Trauma to Return to Her Hit TV Series
Audiences know Erin Michele Soto from her work in the miniseries Shirley and Shelly and the TV series Studio City, the smash hit and Emmy – winning drama.
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Around the world audiences see stars on red carpets, TV and movie screens; and often never consider the challenges these performers face to live their dreams.
So many people recognize a star’s good looks, their talent, the laughs and tears from the characters they portray. But the audience doesn’t really get to know the person behind that work. Today Erin is sharing a deeper look into her journey.
Erin Michele Soto Reveals Her Bright and Her Dark
Recently we had a chance to sit down with Erin Michele Soto and she revealed the brightest and the darkest moments of her story and the excitement yet to come.
Like so many, Erin moved to Southern California with big Hollywood dreams. But she did not become the struggling cliche. She had the talent and good fortune to quickly find work as an actress and as a dancer.
Tragedy on a Celeb-Filled Dance Floor
Erin Michele Soto’s grace on the dance floor quickly brought her attention. She found A-list work immediately in Modern, Ballet, Jazz dance genres. Stars of the stage, small screen and silver screen all demanded her time, attention and help.
Then as her star was rising, suddenly it all crashed down. Literally. One day in the middle of dancing, Erin fell, hit her eye and the trauma from the fall punctured her brain.
The next moments created a chronic ailment that took Erin over a year for her to recover. The glitz and glamour lifestyle was replaced with being bed-ridden and living a small, dark, lonely life.
Hearing Soto reflect back today, there’s still a pain in her eyes and her voice. But a growing strength and courage in her soul.
Was her journey hard? Yes. Painful? Yes. Encouraging? No.
But, Erin wasn’t done yet.
Ironically, her body really thought she was finished. She rarely left the house. She couldn’t socialize with friends. She forgot how to do the smallest tasks constantly, things like closing her house door; she would routinely black out as she walked through her neighborhood.
The things most people find common, this talented star was suddenly struggling to complete.
“No One Can See My Pain”
Even worse, her mind was playing tricks on her.
This normally proud, healthy, optimistic person was suddenly having thoughts of self-harm. It was a dark time. The good news is, she knew better. Luckily, she never acted on those dark, harmful thoughts.
Your Village Supports Your Recovery Journey
To meet Erin is to fall in love with her. Her energy, her spirit, her intelligence, her motivation. Luckily, even in her darkest moments after her trauma, Erin’s community rallied to cheer her on and find ways to help her while she struggled to live daily life. She bravely chose to get professional mental help which also supported her and returned her closer to light and happiness.
She learned to over-power her own thoughts and regain positivity. She now meditates daily and credits that mental strength with her return to courage and creativity.
“I used my imagination
to get back into the world”
Back on Set
Just over a year after her life-changing trauma, Erin was itching to get back to performing. The injury focused her true passions in using her voice in acting. Performing, acting, dancing. But she was dealing with a very foreign feeling: insecurity. Could she remember her dialogue? Could her body move as gracefully as it used to? Would she feel as comfortable acting as she did before?
As a performer, Erin had to “learn to walk” again.
Erin was eager to return and try. She chose a small, local theater in SoCal’s modest San Fernando Valley.
“To her surprise, relief and excitement,
all of her worries went away.”
To her surprise, relief and excitement, all of her worries went away. Her mind and body cooperated and she had a blast performing again in front of huge crowds.
“If something brings you joy,
push through your fears”
Today, Erin is busier than ever. She’s currently working on projects for both stage and screen, taking meetings as an actress for both tv and film.
She credits her friends, family, health professionals and community with helping her overcome her dark moments. Her continued meditation keeps her mind clear and strong.
As a performer, she’s excited to be in front of an audience – whether you’re watching her in-person on stage, on your television or on the big screen.
With confidence, motivation, discipline and support from your community, everyone can rebound from their challenges and return to what they love. Erin Michele Soto is a brilliant and inspiring example of this.
Follow Erin Michele Soto on her social media at:
https://www.facebook.com/OfficialErinMicheleSoto
https://www.instagram.com/erinmichelesoto
https://twitter.com/erinmichelesoto
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Southern sophistication in the City of Brotherly Love: Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails RTD Hard Tea Pours Nationwide
Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails Hard Tea Launches Nationwide
Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails Hard Tea – a canned ready-to-drink that launched earlier this spring in 13 test markets – is rolling out nationwide this fall.
The RTD embodies Southern sophistication with a twist.
Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails Hard Tea combines black tea, ripe, true-to-fruit flavor resulting in a balanced and sweet finish. With four classic flavors carefully selected, each can was crafted to please the palates of today’s modern drinker.
Country Cocktails can be found in select retail and convenience stores across the country in a 12oz. can (ABV 5%), 12-can variety pack containing four classic flavors: Original, Peach, Raspberry, and Blackberry; with the Original & Peach offered in 16oz. and 23.5oz. single serve cans that deliver consumers a refreshing and high-quality beverage experience for those who appreciate a good tea.
- Original: Known for its full-bodied refreshing take on a Southern classic. Combining the rich taste of black tea with a sweet, true-to-fruit finish, captures the essence of Southern sweet tea. It’s the perfect drink for relaxing on the porch and enjoying good conversation.
- Peach: A floral flavor that brings the juicy, sun-ripened sweetness to life. This option offers a crisp and refreshing experience, where the delicate honeyed taste comes to the forefront of the palate making it a delightful choice for any day of the year.
- Raspberry: Delivering a vibrant tartness, yet balanced with a subtle sweetness; this flavor presents a bold and smooth drink that’s as satiating as it is refreshing.
- Blackberry: Capturing the rich and juicy essence of blackberries, it offers a slightly tangy and flavorsome experience, making it a perfect choice for consumers who enjoy the bold taste of berries with a hint of Southern charm.
Coinciding with Country Cocktails Hard Tea launch is the RTD’s partnership with ACM and two-time CMT Music Award winner, Lauren Alaina, who has accomplished one of country music’s crowning achievements – becoming the youngest member of the Grand Ole Opry.
Lauren Alaina’s small town Georgia roots, love for comfort and authenticity make her the perfect ambassador for a beverage that prides itself on delivering a taste of the South in every sip. Both Alaina and Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails symbolize Southern charm, together producing a match made partnership.
To celebrate the collaboration, Country Cocktails has partnered with Southern Living to offer fans across the country a chance to enter their sweepstakes and win a pair of tickets and flights to meet Lauren Alaina at her concert in Las Vegas at the Green Valley Ranch Backyard Amphitheater on October 25, 2024.
The sweepstakes will run from September 13 until October 11, 2024 and contestants can enter for a chance to win by visiting the link.
About Jack Daniel’s
Officially registered by the U.S. Government in 1866 and based in Lynchburg, Tenn., the Jack Daniel Distillery is the first registered distillery in the United States and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Jack Daniel’s is the maker of the world-famous Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey, Gentleman Jack Double Mellowed Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Apple, Jack Daniel’s Bonded, Jack Daniel’s Sinatra Select, and Jack Daniel’s RTDs. Today, Jack Daniel’s is a true global icon found in more than 170 countries around the world and is the most valuable spirits brand in the world as recognized by Interbrand.
About Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails
Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails are premium malt beverages from the Jack Daniel’s Family of Brands. Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails was introduced in May 1992.
Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails and their respective flavor names are registered trademarks. © 2024 Jack Daniel’s. Jack Daniel Beverage Co., Louisville, Ky. Flavored Malt Beverage.
For more information, please visit www.countrycocktails.com.
Philly Food: “The Bear” Star Matty Matheson launches #TGISunday with Pacific Foods to Tackle the Sunday Scaries
Pacific Foods, a brand known for its organic and high-quality ingredients, has launched its #TGISunday content series to help people overcome the widespread phenomenon known as the “Sunday Scaries.”
Developed in partnership with chef and television star Matty Matheson, the series is designed to transform Sunday anxiety into a time for culinary joy and inspiration.
A recent survey by Pacific Foods* revealed the deep impact of the Sunday Scaries, with the average American experiencing this pre-Monday apprehension 36 times a year. Typically, the unsettling feelings begin around 3:54 p.m. on Sundays, leading to an average of six hours and six minutes** spent in dread each week—totaling a staggering 219 hours annually.
Recognizing that cooking serves as a soothing activity for many with 31% of people finding joy in preparing meals on Sundays, Pacific Foods is addressing these anxieties by offering easy, comforting recipes through the #TGISunday content series on its website.
Matty Matheson and a group of wellness and food aficionados will share curated recipes designed to combat the Sunday Scaries and embrace the calming, restorative power of cooking to unwind and reclaim their Sundays.
Chef Matty Matheson brings his trademark enthusiasm to the kitchen, making his stance on Sundays clear by turning them into a day of culinary excitement. “Look, I know Sundays can be a drag for a lot of folks, so let’s flip that script. Let’s rock the kitchen with some serious cooking that’s all about fun and flavor without it being a chore or another worry. Cooking isn’t just about eating; it’s about chilling out and making something awesome that feeds your soul,” explains Matheson.
Matty’s unique recipe—the Spicy Shrimp Pasta Bake—will be a highlight of the series, which will also feature content from various figures known for their culinary expertise. All recipes and tips will be available through social where viewers of the #TGISunday series are encouraged to share their own meal-hacking tips using Pacific Foods products. Fans can also enter to win a custom illustrated soup mug, designed by Pacific and Matheson, to add to their Sunday rituals.
“Matty Matheson’s vibrant personality and the joy he brings to food make him a natural fit to join us in our mission to take back Sundays,” said Erika Jubinville, head of Pacific Foods marketing. “He inspires all of us to bring more fun and creativity to our cooking routine, and sparks excitement for new ways to use Pacific products.”
For more insights into the #TGISunday series, please visit pacificfoods.com/TGISunday.
About Pacific Foods
Pacific Foods was founded in 1987 in Tualatin, Ore. and was acquired by Campbell Soup Company in 2017. For more than 150 years, Campbell (NASDAQ:CPB) has been connecting people through food they love. Generations of consumers have trusted us to provide delicious and affordable food and beverages. Headquartered in Camden, N.J. since 1869, the company generated fiscal 2023 net sales of $9.4 billion. Our portfolio includes iconic brands such as Campbell’s, Cape Cod, Goldfish, Kettle Brand, Lance, Late July, Milano, Michael Angelo’s, noosa, Pace, Pacific Foods, Pepperidge Farm, Prego, Rao’s, Snyder’s of Hanover, Swanson and V8. Campbell has a heritage of giving back. The company is a member of the Standard & Poor’s 500 as well as the FTSE4Good and Bloomberg Gender-Equality Indices. For more information, visit www.campbellsoupcompany.com.
NBA legend Brings Flavor to Philly with Hennessy Limited Edition by LeBron James
Basketball legend Introduces Hennessy, the world’s leading cognac, and basketball legend LeBron James are proud to unveil ‘Hennessy Limited Edition by LeBron James’ – a V.S bottle collaboration available globally starting on September 30, 2024.
This first-time collaboration between Hennessy and LeBron James unites two giants in their respective fields and brings an unexpected twist to fans and the industry alike. Their mutual respect, shared drive for excellence and commitment to pushing boundaries makes this partnership a celebration of greatness and serves as a reminder that Hennessy is made for more.
“As an admirer of Hennessy and its iconic brand, I’ve always appreciated its commitment to basketball and how it celebrates the sport’s influence on and off the court,”
lebron James
“I was fortunate enough to visit the Maison in Cognac a while back, and seeing the care and craftsmanship that go into creating each bottle was pretty incredible. This collaboration represents a shared sense of dedication and discovery coming to life for everyone to enjoy.”
Hennessy Limited Edition by LeBron James
The limited-edition bottle features fresh, vibrant and distinctive designs which nod to James’ impact on and off the court. Both the bottle and gift box showcase an illustrative portrait of James in purple and orange. The iconic Hennessy Bras Armé is reimagined, sporting a sleeve as a tribute to James and intertwined with his trademark crown. The blend will remain the same and continue to deliver on the bold, yet smooth character that has made Hennessy V.S one of the most popular cognacs in the world.
“We are elated to officially welcome LeBron James to the Hennessy family after many years of mutual admiration and friendship,” said Antoine Varlet, Senior Vice President, Hennessy U.S. “LeBron is not just a basketball star, but someone who redefines boundaries in sport, style, culture and beyond. This partnership is more than just a collaboration, it’s a statement about what’s possible when two cultural icons come together.”
To highlight the cognac’s versatility, James put a fresh twist on the Hennessy Margarita cocktail featuring Hennessy V.S, lime juice, orange liqueur, orange juice and agave syrup. The addition of orange juice comes directly from James, inspired by a recent tasting experience in Cognac where he experienced the different possibilities of the spirit and discovered that Hennessy is enjoyed more than just neat, complementing a wide range of serves. This follows the release of Hennessy’s “Made for more” campaign, which shows how any drink or occasion can be made ‘more’ when you add Hennessy. Find the full recipe on hennessy.com.
The ‘Hennessy Limited Edition by LeBron James’ V.S will be available for purchase starting September 30, 2024.
About the Author
Joe Wehinger (nicknamed Joe Winger) has written for over 20 years about the business of lifestyle and entertainment. Joe is an entertainment producer, media entrepreneur, public speaker, and C-level consultant who owns businesses in entertainment, lifestyle, tourism and publishing. He is an award-winning filmmaker, published author, member of the Directors Guild of America, International Food Travel Wine Authors Association, WSET Level 2 Wine student, WSET Level 2 Cocktail student, member of the LA Wine Writers. Email to: Joe@FlavRReport.comYou Might also like
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The Roots Picnic returns to Philadelphia June 4-5 with Mary J. Blige, The Roots, Summer Walker, Wizkid and more
The Roots Picnic returns to Philadelphia June 4-5 with Mary J. Blige, The Roots, Summer Walker, Wizkid and more
The Roots and Live Nation Urban proudly announce the return of “Roots Picnic.”
For the first time in-person since 2019, the annual festival headlined, hosted, and curated by the GRAMMY®Award-winning multiplatinum hip-hop luminaries will take over the Mann at Fairmount Park in Philadelphia, PA, for two days of music, art, and culture on Saturday and Sunday, June 4-5, 2022.
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A special fan club presale is live, while general on-sale begins on Friday, February 18th at 10 am ET. Weekend or limited single day tickets will be available as well as VIP packages—HERE.
For the first time ever, Mary J Blige, fresh off a performance at Super Bowl LVI, and The Roots will join forces on stage to headline the proceedings with a once-in-a-lifetime set. Assembling possibly the biggest and boldest lineup in the festival’s history, the bill includes Summer Walker, Wizkid, Kirk Franklin, Jazmine Sullivan, J Period Live Mixtape featuring Black Thought, Rick Ross, G Herbo, Mickey Guyton, Muni Long, and more. Check out the full confirmed lineup below.
Related: See Halsey perform in 2022
Offering an inimitable experience, “Roots Picnic” once again features the fan favorite Podcast Stage curated by Wallo267 and Gillie The King. Highlighted by live podcasts of Million Dollaz Worth of Game, Questlove Supreme, and more, the concourse also boasts various activations and engagements, ranging from film to social justice.
“After a long two years, we are excited to announce
the return of The Roots Picnic to Philly
with two days of music and culture at the Mann at Fairmount Park,”
says Shawn Gee, President of Live Nation Urban, The Roots manager, and co-founder of the event.
“This year, Black Thought, Questlove and I attempted to curate a lineup that broke through the genre barriers that often separate us in black culture. To be able to book Mickey Guyton, Kirk Franklin, G Herbo, Wizkid, Wallo & Gillie, and Mary J Blige on the same lineup was a dream come true.”
Related: Billie Eilish invites you on a 30-day challenge
Bringing “Roots Picnic” worldwide, YouTube will serve as the exclusive host for the festival. It will stream live on the group’s Official YouTube Channel. Fans can subscribe to The Roots’ channel now to revisit some of the incredible content and performances from the 2020 virtual “Roots Picnic” here.
Since launching in 2007, The Roots Picnic has stood at the crossroads of music and culture, entertaining, engaging, and enlightening millions of fans along the way. Its dynamic lineups have included everyone from The Weeknd, Pharrell, Snoop Dogg, Phantogram, Usher, Nas, A$AP Rocky, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, and Future to Vampire Weekend, The War On Drugs, Gary Clark, Jr., Solange, Diplo, Gnarls Barkley, and more. “Roots Picnic” isn’t just a cornerstone of the group’s career, but a cornerstone of the culture.
Related:
After a two-year hiatus, Old City Eats is returning to the neighborhood with food and drink deals at Cuba Libre and 20+ other restaurants!
LINEUP:
Mary J. Blige with the Roots
Summer Walker
Wizkid
Jazmine Sullivan
Kamasi Washington
J Period Live Mixtape featuring Black Thought, Rick Ross, and Benny the Butcher
Soulquarians Jam Session featuring Keyshia Cole, SWV, and Musiq Soulchild
Masego
Kirk Franklin
G Herbo
Tierra Whack
Freddie Gibbs
Mickey Guyton
Yebba
Chief Keef
Robert Glasper & Bilal
DJ Jazzy Jeff & Rakim
Babyface Ray
Muni Long
CKay
Protoje
Serpentwithfeet
Ambre
Alex Isley
KUR
Durand
Suzanne Christine
Mu Mu Fresh
Jordan Hawkins
Macc N Cheese
Aquil Dawud
DJ Diamond Kuts
DJ Aktive
PODCAST STAGE:
Million Dollaz Worth of Game
Rory & Mal
Questlove Supreme
Earn Your Leisure
Whoreible Decisions
Jemele Hill is Unbothered
Carefully Reckless featuring Jess Hilarious
FAQ Podcast with Fuzzy and Quincy Harris
Around the Way Curls
Podcast Bols
Disruptors in the Culture
**Lineup subject to change
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Italian Wine Shines – Oltrepo Pavese pizza and wine pairing at Sottocasa Pizzeria
Oltrepo Pavese shines with authentic Italian wine pairing at Harlem’s Sottocasa Pizzeria.
Tonight some of NYC’s top wine and lifestyle writers joined the Oltrepò Pavese to talk and taste through the wines and culture of Oltrepo Pavese, the north-west Italian region of Lombardy, Italy.
A visit to Italy’s Oltrepo Pavese
Oltrepò Pavese is a wine region in the north-western Italian region of Lombardy.
The main grape varieties grown in this area are Barbera, Dolcetto, and Chardonnay. Also, they produce Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling Italico, Riesling, and Pinot Nero.
Italian Wine Personality Susannah Gold hosted tonight’s dinner along with the Oltrepo Pavese tourism team.
Taste Harlem’s Authentic Italian at Sottocasa
From their Sottocasa website:
“Located in the heart and soul of New York City—Sottocasa Harlem is owned and operated by husband and wife duo, Elena and Matteo.
With a passion and love for pizza stemming back to their native Italy, Harlem now has it’s own Napoli serving up authentic Neapolitan pizza and amore!”
Harlem’s Sottocasa Italian pizzas were a great choice as pair well with wine.
Their menu includes antipasti, pizze rosse, pizze bianche, and an impressive beer and wine selection.
We tasted through several pizza and wine pairings:
Defilippi, Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigoi DOC, Crocetta 2021
In the glass, light yellow with golden reflections.
On the nose, light floral and citrus
A heavy mouth of minerality. Refreshing, full bodied with a lingering finish.
Would pair well with seafood, salad, deli meats
Vitivinicola Vanzini Sas, Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigio DOC 2021
In the glass, vibrant straw yellow
On the nose, Intense apple and pear
On mouth, well-structured, the citrus continues with vibrant pear so slowly fades
Would pair well with garden salad or white fish sharp cheese
CA Di Frara, Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Grigio DOC 2021
In the glass, Pale, almost translucent yellow.
On the nose, a big, beautiful waft of floral.
On mouth, medium boldly, cream, chalk and minerality.
Would pair well pasta and white pizza
CA Montebello, Oltrepo Pavese DOC Pinot Nero Vinificato in Bianco 2021
In the glass, straw yellow
On the nose, fruit and floral that builds to fresh baked bread.
On mouth, delicate with a elegant body, light minerality and floral
Would pair well light garden salad and white fish
Giovannella Fugazza, Bonarda Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC Somossa 2021
In the glass, Ruby red with darker edge.
On the nose, a heavenly cloud of complex black and red berry.
On mouth, a gush of red fruit, raspberry and blackberry. Rich texture, medium body.
Would pair well with sausage, pepperoni
Losito & Guarini, Bonarda Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC, C’era Una Volta
In the glass, ruby red
On the nose, red fruit the opens up spicy with black pepper
On mouth, a rounder mouth feel, with red fruit and softer tannins
Would pair well spicy meats
Dino Torti, Oltrepo Pavese DOC Barbera, Route 66, 2019
In the glass, brilliant ruby red
On the nose, red fruit and minerality
On mouth, big and beautiful, full body with plenty of spicy
Would pair well roasted red meat, red sauces, perfect for a meat lovers pizza
Tenuta Travaglio, Pinot Nero Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC, Pernero 2021
In the glass, brick red.
On the nose, wild strawberry and red berries
On mouth, notes of mushroom, medium mouthfeel, silky tannins.
Would pair well risottos and light red sauce or meat dishes like pizza.
Vitivinicola Vanzini SAS, Sangue di Guida Dell’Oltrepo Pavese DOC 2021
In the glass, deep ruby red.
On the nose, intense ,fresh red fruit and cherry.
On mouth, sweet and velvety, with a lingering finish
Find the wines at Total Wine and visit Harlem’s Sottacasa for a great dinner.
Thank you to Susannah Gold, and Harlem’s Sottacasa for a great Italian meal
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From A Wine Lover’s Bucket List: Eve Bushman spends a week touring and tasting in Chateauneuf du Pape
From A Wine Lover’s Bucket List: Eve Bushman spends a week touring and tasting in Chateauneuf du Pape
What’s on your Bucket List?
While a normal person wants to check off going to Mars, driving a racecar or meeting a president, wine writers have lists that almost always include visiting wineries in far off places. Having Shiraz in Australia, Tempranillo in Spain, Chianti Classico in Italy and Malbec in Argentina are on our lists, but top of the list for me has always been France. I had two days in Bordeaux years ago and a week in the Garda DOC in Italy that just wet my whistle for more, so when a small group of wine writers was being put together, to visit Chateauneuf du Pape for arguably the best Rhone wines in the world, I poised my pencil over my list and made a huge mark – YES, please, take me!
Quick travel tips: Bottles are priced much less at the source, even with shipping costs; we saved in buying a case to have sent home. If you can’t get winery appointments, or don’t have the time, we found several tasting rooms in town – as well as several places for meals. None of us in our party spoke fluent French, and though it would have helped, we were fine communicating in English. You can drive your own car, on the right side of the street, but there are many roundabouts, toll roads and narrow roadways.
Domaine Pegau
Our first day in France began with a sunrise at our friend’s Villa in Monoblet. From there we traveled 90 minutes for a tour and tasting at Chateau (wines labeled from the Cote du Rhone area) and Domaine (Chateauneuf du Pape area in Rhone) from Pegau. We have a few Domaine Pegau wines in our cellar and really looked forward to visiting the real deal.
From our host we learned that there are five towns in Chateauneuf du Pape that produced 95% red and 5% white wine grapes. They use 13 grape varieties and any given bottle only has to use one grape. Pegau – properly pronounced as “Pay-Go” – uses all 13, including blending white with red grapes. For their Cote du Rhone property Pegau makes 44% red wine and one Rose wine.
We learned that they are an old school winery, as far as winemaking techniques. When finished wine is ordered only then is a bottling truck ordered and labels created. (There are different laws for different labeling around the world, so that is the reason they have to wait to print the labels.)
Only old oak is used for aging and some barrels are 90 years old. Stainless steel tanks are only used for their white wines; some high-end whites also spend time in wood barrels and concrete eggs. They do not de-stem any of the wines, which for me meant that the terroir would show earthiness and tannins.
Now, onto the tasting!
We sampled two Chateau Pegau Vallee du Rhone and two Domaine Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape, a white and red in each category, aged between 2019 and 2021. My personal preference on these leaned more toward the Chateauneuf du Pape wines and of particular note was the 2019 Cuvee Reservee that used all 13 Rhone grapes and 80% of that was Grenache. These wines were priced between 10 and 45 euros – which is pretty close to the same in American dollars.
Instagram: @Domaine_Du_Pegau
Website: https://pegau.com/
Domaine Roger Sabon
Next up we visited Chateauneuf du Pape’s (CDP’s) Domaine Roger Sabon for a tasting.
Our host explained that this past summer they experienced drier weather producing smaller berries over 18 hectares. Sabon, like Pegau, has both a Domaine for the CDP wine area and a Cotes du Rhone label. Five percent of their appellations are producing white wines. They blend before aging, have four different soil types and also have a distillery. All of their wines are at least 70% Grenache and are aged in large barrels.
For the tasting they offered us new and older wines, including wines from the Lirac appellation – not in Chateauneuf du Pape – with amazing aromatics and flavors.
My favorites were a 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve that had just been bottled in March and contained 80% Grenache and the remaining 20% was made of Syrah and Mourvedre – the classic GSM blend. I noted delicate fruit aromas and subtle fruit flavors – red to blue fruits – as well as a pepperiness.
My second favorite was the Prestige label, a 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape that was all black fruit, cracked pepper and earth that had a nice sweet spot. That blend was also a GSM.
My ultimate favorite of the day was the final wine we tasted: the 2012 Prestige that had huge aromatics with earth, mint, dark fruit and an extra long finish. It was a real treat to be treated to an older vintage as it showed how well these wines did after a decade of aging.
Instagram: @Roger.Sabon
Website: http://www.domainerogersabon.com/en/
Domaine de la Mordoree
The next day we went to Domaine de la Mordoree for an extensive vineyard tour – with the most amazing rocky and sandy soil that walking on it was difficult. The idea of the roots below, struggling for water that made them strong, left a huge impression on me. I had never seen this kind of large rocky terrain in a vineyard before. And the sandy sections were so pure and soft, it was quite a difference. The vines are between 40 and 60 years old.
Farming in the Domaine was certified organic in 2013 and is now also biodynamic. There are 30 workers brought in for nighttime harvests every year. The father and head of the household had died, and the mother and daughter “continue in a masculine world” according to our guide.
After the tour we had a tasting of their new white, rose and red wines. My first favorite was the 2019 La Dame Rousse – Lirac, also known as “The Red Lady” on their website, which was 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah. Very dark berries, forest floor, tannin, dry and spicy and with a price tag of only 14.50 Euros. My second favorite was their 2020 La Reine de bois Chateauneuf du Pape that was rich, velvety, smooth and balanced. Top notch indeed and 56 Euros.
Instagram: @Domaine_Mordoree
Website: https://www.domaine-mordoree.com/?lang=en
Domaine Andre Brunel and le Clos du Caillou
Our next day in Chateauneuf du Pape was spent at Domaine Andre Brunel and le Clos du Caillou! At Andre Brunel we learned that the namesake had passed away in February and his son Fabrice, Andre’s longtime apprentice, then took over as winemaker. Some of the Grenache vineyards are 135 years old. One other interesting fact is that in a recent blind tasting of a 1959 Andre Brunel vintage the wine was thought to have been a Burgundy instead of a Rhone!
We tasted in the winery, during a day of noisy pressing, but it didn’t keep us from enjoying several wines. Along with their Chateauneuf du Pape label we also sampled blends from their Cotes du Rhone Villages. My favorite was a 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Cailloux that was a 60% Grenache blend with Syrah, Mourvedre and Cinsault. The wine had been aged in a Burgundy barrel.
Onto le Clos du Caillou where some of their wines are grown within the CDP boundaries and some are outside of it in Cotes du Rhone territory. The Cailloux area, mentioned above in a wine from Andre Brunel, is just outside of CDP but has the same soil and terroir. Some of their vineyards have sandy soils and some are pebbly.
Their Grand Reserve wine is their most famous and comes from pure sandy soils, which for the winery means:
“elegance, fine tannins and aging potential.”
Their new winery, Domaine de Panisse, began in 2020 and the wines have all sold out. In 2007 they went organic and were certified as so in 2010. They are also biodynamic but are not yet certified for that distinction. Grenache is their number one produced grape, followed by Syrah, Mourvedre and other Rhônes. They only work with used barrels.
We tasted seven wines and the most memorable one for me was the Les Quartz Rouge – Chateauneuf du Pape 2020 for its fresh red fruit, richness and smooth balance. The grapes used – 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah – came from the vineyard that just happened to be just outside of the Chateauneuf du Pape region. Our host said the wine had a 20-year aging potential. The wine was priced at 55 Euros.
Instagram: @Domaine_AndreBrunel @ClosDuCaillou
Websites: https://domaine-andre-brunel.fr/
https://www.closducaillou.com/
Domaine la Barroche and Château Mont Redon PLUS The Terroir and Castles
Next up we visited Domaine la Barroche where the sandy soil with quartz stones took over the vineyards. The same 12 people do the harvest every year; and the group also sorts the grapes in buckets by hand for the 2,000 cases of wine they produce a year. During the de-stemming process they discard any too-dry berries. Then, later, the winemaking process is “like slow cooking at low temperatures” according to our host.
We tasted wines from their Liberty (stones), Julien Barrot (signature) and Fiancée labels. Every wine I tasted I noted as distinguished: the 2020, 2019 and 2016 Julien Barrot Chateauneuf du Pape, 2020 Liberty blend and the 2020 Fiancée Chateauneuf du Pape.
Chateau Mont- Redon
Before our tasting at Mont-Redon I took a few moments to look over their colorful brochure and large maps.
I read,
“The secret of our skill is hidden in the poor soils in which the vines grow.
Originally the Alps, Chateauneuf du Pape, round puddings stones are what make our wines special.
Our Lirac and Cotes du Rhone are at their best on the plains, also stony, neighboring those of Chateauneuf du Pape.”
Château Mont Redon will be celebrating their 100-year anniversary next year, with the same family at the helm since 1923!
We tasted a 2021 Roussanne Viognier Reserve Cotes du Rhone, 2020 Oratoire St. Domaine Martin Rhone Valley, 2020 Lirac GSM, 2018 Reserve Gigondas and a 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape. Learned that they don’t export their wines until they are at least five years old – as the U.S. consumer is not known for aging their wines – and we should be buying the 2019s now.
Terroir tour Day Courtesy A 2 Pas des Vignes Hebergements and Spa
Next up was a fabulous tour of the different rocks – including beautiful quartz – and different soils all throughout the Cote Du Rhone and Chateauneuf du Pape with Nicolas of “A 2 Pas des Vignes Hebergements and Spa”! (He and his wife Emilie own four homes to rent, and a spa on the premises.) Castles – all minutes away – include the Pope’s Palace, Chateau de Vaudieu, Chateau La Nerthe and Hostellerie du Château that also has a lovely restaurant. I highly recommend a stay at 2 Pas as the pricing is more than reasonable as well as being in the center of Chateauneuf du Pape. Nicolas offered us the tour, though he is not a tour guide, but I also suggest a tour so that you can get more of a sense of the terroir and history.
Instagram: @DomaineLaBarroche @ChateauMontRedon
Websites: https://www.domainelabarroche.com/
https://www.chateaumontredon.com/
Instagram: @a2pasdesvignes
Website: https://sites.google.com/view/a2pasdesvignes
Domaine du Grand Tinel, Domaine Saint Prefert Et Domaine Isabel Ferrando and Vieux Telegraphe
My final installment from my time in Chateauneuf du Pape is a visit and tour at Domaine du Grand Tinel that’s been making wine for 7 generations! (My husband Eddie covered me for another day – see his coverage from Domaine Saint Prefert Et Domaine Isabel Ferrando and Vieux Telegraphe below.)
Lucien Jeune, born in 1904, is known for two things, first he passed a law forbidding UFOs from landing in the vineyards – making the area more appealing to inquisitive tourists – and he was also mayor for 25 years. Grand Tinel began in 1972, combining estates owned by Lucien Jeune and Georges Establet, when their children married in 1968.
To this day harvest is all done by hand, the have two wineries from two different terroirs: Domaine du Grand Tinel and Domaine de Saint Paul. They don’t make all of the white Rhone varieties, and they focus on the three major reds: Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre. Some of their vines are over 100 years old. They only use new oak barrels for the whites and used for the reds. Wine is sold through Negotiants, mostly to the private sector of French buyers. Bottling and labeling is done in house.
These were my favorites from the tasting: The 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc, the 2020 Cuvee Cotes du Rhone (Roussanne based), Domaine Saint Paul 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape (Grenache and Syrah based, 70 year old vines), 2018 L’insolite (100% Syrah) and 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Heres (100% Grenache).
Eddie and friends (I was back at the Villa with a cold) visited Domaine Saint Prefert Et Domaine Isabel Ferrando and Vieux Telegraphe…these are his memories of the day:
My day began at Domaine Saint Prefert and with an introduction and discussion with owner Isabel Fernando, and a tasting of the latest vintages. The 2021 Blanc Famille Isabel Fernando Chateauneuf du Pape was a great sample of their wines. The 2020 Colombis from Chateauneuf du Pape was outstanding as well.
The afternoon brought us to Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe. Vieux Telegraphe has been a family run winery since 1891. The sixth generation of the Brunier family is continuing the tradition of making excellent wines. Daniel Brunier gave us a wonderful tour and explanation of their winemaking style. The tour included a walk through their newly constructed caves for wine aging and storage.
The tasting began with Clos Roquete, a very approachable wine made from 33% Roussanne, 33% Clairette, and 34% Grenache Blanc. This wine was so good, we bought a bottle for dinner that night. The 2020 Blanc was outstanding as well. We tasted the entire flight ending with the 2019 Rouge Chateauneuf du Pape made from 65% Grenache Noir, 15% Mourvedre, 15% Syrah, with Cinsault, Clairette and others at 5%. As a special treat, Daniel opened their 2010 rouge Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf du Pape. This wine was truly a standout in all the wines tasted on the trip so far. The wine had aged well and still had the ability go age a couple of dozen more years. Many Vieux Telegraphe wines were included in the case we had shipped home.
Instagrams: @DomaineDuGrandTinel @isabelferrando_stprefert @VieuxTelegraphe
Websites: https://www.domainegrandtinel.fr/en/#historique
https://www.vieux-telegraphe.fr/
Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in the first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.
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