Just in Time For Summer, Kendall-Jackson Expands Their Best-Selling Low Calorie Collection

Since 1982, Kendall-Jackson has built a reputation for high-quality, highly acclaimed wines. Sourcing from vineyards throughout California’s diverse coastal terrains and terroirs, head winemaker Randy Ullom crafts the flagship Vintner’s Reserve—America’s #1 -selling Chardonnay since 1992—as well as a portfolio of other beloved labels, including Avant, Grand Reserve, Jackson Estate, and Stature.

In 2021, Kendall-Jackson released its Low Calorie Chardonnay, produced with the same commitment to quality as the bestselling Vintner’s Reserve. At just 85 calories, 3 grams of carbs, zero grams of sugar, zero grams of fat, zero grams of protein, and 9% ABV per 5-ounce serving, the wine offers a refreshing option for active lifestyles, without sacrificing quality or flavor. Following the path of the Vintner’s Reserve, it is now the #1 selling Low Calorie Chardonnay in the country.

And now, just in time for summer, Kendall-Jackson is releasing two new additions to the Low Calorie line of wines: Sauvignon Blanc and Rosé.

“When we started this endeavor, we knew that the taste and flavor of the low calorie wines would have to meet the level of quality that Kendall-Jackson consumers trust and love,” says Kendall-Jackson Head Winemaker Randy Ullom. “If we didn’t think these wines were delicious, we would not bottle them.”

Fruit for the low calorie wines comes from the same vineyards as the rest of the Kendall-Jackson portfolio. “Over the years we've taken these different growing areas and learned what each terroir brings to the component that goes into a blend,” says Ullom.

As a leader in sustainable farming as well as water and energy conservation, 100% of Kendall-Jackson’s estate vineyards are certified sustainable. Also, as part of Kendall-Jackson’s commitment to sustainability, all low calorie wines go into lighter-weight bottles. Using less glass results in a lower carbon footprint and helps in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The style for the Low Calorie collection is achieved by harvesting twice in the fall. The first pick is early in the season, and selected grapes are lower in sugar. A second pass later on garners grapes with more concentration and complexity. When blended together, they create highly aromatic and vibrant wines. 

Just like the Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay and Low Calorie Chardonnay, the Low Calorie Sauvignon Blanc is barrel fermented to add richness and texture to the palate. As partial owners of a stave mill in France, Kendall-Jackson can specify its oak needs for the barrels down to the tree level, from grain tightness to toast levels, ensuring balance in the final wines.

As for the Rosé, summer wouldn’t be complete without it—and the Low Calorie Rosé is a fresh and lively wine that’s bound to become a new favorite. It displays juicy strawberry and red berry notes, which are balanced with bright acidity. It will be available exclusively online and in retail locations throughout California. 

With the long days of summer come barbecues, days at the beach, and Kendall-Jackson’s Low Calorie wines pair perfectly with these warm-weather pleasures. They complement all your favorite summer dishes, from seafood to salads, and are also ideal as aperitif wines to kick off a party.

And when summer’s over, you’ll still want to reach for the Low Calorie Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Rosé. For those with active lifestyles or those who follow mindful drinking practices, Low Calorie wines offer year-round enjoyment as all of Kendall-Jackson’s award-winning wines without sacrificing the very essence of the beverage that makes us love wine in the first place.

To learn more about Kendall-Jackson’s Low Calorie line of wines, including their best-selling Chardonnay, new Sauvignon Blanc and Rosé, click here.

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Saperavi: A Noble, World-Class Grape Variety

 

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Discover Historic Vines and New Roots in Charlottesville, Virginia

“Summertime is the perfect season to admire the rolling green hills of the Monticello Wine Trail and explore the trail’s unique culinary and entertainment experiences.”

Summer is quickly approaching—now is the time to start planning a wine getaway to Charlottesville, Virginia, Wine Enthusiast’s 2023 Wine Region of the Year. Located just two and half hours southwest of Washington, D.C., the picturesque area is home to the Monticello American Viticultural Area (AVA) and award-winning wineries. With its numerous tasting rooms, family-friendly experiences and an exciting culinary scene, Charlottesville and surrounding Albemarle County make for a wonderful summer escape.

The Charlottesville region’s viticultural history runs deep. As far back as 1770’s, Thomas Jefferson envisioned stretches of vineyards at his Monticello estate. Today, visionary producers continue to push boundaries in this thoroughly modern region. From winemaking techniques to grape varieties, a spirit of experimentation imbues their work. Collaboration is also a key element to the region’s success; winemakers freely share ideas and propel each other to greater heights.

Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot are just a few of the red wine grapes that make their home in the vineyards, along with Petit Manseng, Chardonnay, Viognier and a roster of other whites. These varieties are used to produce a wide array of bottles that include rosé, sparkling and dessert wines. With this sort of diversity, paired with the region’s ability to produce terroir-driven wines, it is no wonder the Charlottesville area receives such high accolades.

Wine Experiences and More

Charlottesville and Albemarle County’s natural landscape, set in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is stunning and its Monticello Wine Trail boasts more than 40 wineries. Summertime is the perfect season to admire the rolling green hills and explore the trail’s unique culinary and entertainment experiences.

Every Sunday from Memorial Day weekend through October, King Family Vineyards hosts polo matches at their Roseland Farm. Free and open to the public, guests can purchase wine, enjoy fare from various food trucks and watch horses and riders gallop around the field while picnicking with a bottle of wine. Their 2019 Meritage is a top pick—it won the 2024 Virginia Governor’s Cup, the state’s annual premiere wine competition.

Meanwhile, Pippin Hill Farm and Vineyards is the region’s self-proclaimed “culinary vineyard,” which only hints at the delicious experiences guests can enjoy. Whether it’s a vineyard tour followed by a wine and food pairing, cooking classes or a seasonal wine dinner, food and wine go hand-in-hand at this winery.

Though the wine experiences are world-class, family-friendly offerings in particular make Charlottesville’s wine country stand out from other regions. At Keswick Vineyards, kids can play a round of miniature golf while adults taste through the winery’s offerings in a build-your-own flight.

Of course, music lovers will want to check out Blenheim Vineyards, established in 2000 by musician Dave Matthews. More than just a mecca for carefully crafted wines, the winery is home to Oenoverse, an organization that aims to create a more diverse wine industry through inclusive events. Every fall, Oenoverse hosts Two Up, Wine Down, a wine festival in downtown Charlottesville that spotlights BIPOC winemakers.

Where to Sip and Sleep

Hospitality is at the heart of the Charlottesville area’s wine culture and numerous accommodations are available to make visitors feel a warm Southern welcome.

The Inn at Stinson Vineyards, located amidst the vines, bills itself as a modern bed and breakfast. Guests get exclusive access to the Inn’s fine-dining restaurant and are invited to greet each morning with a three-course breakfast.

Barboursville Vineyards is one of the wineries credited with starting Virginia’s modern wine renaissance. Founded in 1976 by Gianni Zonin of Italy’s Zonin family, the estate is known for its Italian varieties as well as Bordeaux blends. Those European-inspired wines pair flawlessly with the Italian cuisine served at their on-site restaurant, Palladio. And the on-site cottages are just as luxurious.

In addition to these vineyard estates, Albemarle County is home to numerous inns, resorts, well-known hotel groups.

There are many resources available to help visitors plan an unforgettable trip to Charlottesville and Albemarle County. For detailed information on the region, request or download the Visitor Guide or sign up for the e-Newsletter to stay up-to-date on the newest events and offerings.

Start planning your summer getaway today at www.visitcharlottesville.org.

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Lions Head Collection Finds Its Place in Napa Valley

An innovative wine collection announces a new tasting experience
and its inaugural reserve red blend – inspired by Greek myth.

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Mixed for Manhattan Cocktail Recipes

While working on The New York City Issue of Wine Enthusiast we were inspired by the streets, sights and sounds of Manhattan and the other boroughs at every turn. Each neighborhood in the City has a flavor all its own—these three epic downtown destinations call for cocktails as iconic as they are.

Neighborhood: Meat Packing District

Drink: Absolut Lillet Cosmo

Over brunch or happy hour in the MPD discussing the romantic entanglements of the night before, just like that, this twist on the classic is sure to put the sex in your city. This cocktail riff stays true to the spirit and flavor profile of a Cosmopolitan. But the swap of juice for Lillet Blanc and Savoia aperitif wines brings a bit more body, backbone and ups the sophistication level on this sipper.

Ingredients

2 ounces Absolut

1 ounce Lillet Blanc

¾ ounce Savoia Rosso

½ ounce elderflower liqueur

½ ounce lemon juice

Orange peel, for garnish

Combine all ingredients in cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well, then strain into coupe glass. Garnish with orange peel.

Neighborhood: South Street Seaport

Drink: Jefferson’s Ocean Bourbon Old Fashioned

A seafaring stranger’s take on one of the OG cocktail recipes, this refined rocks drink speaks to the neighborhood’s history and the ship-to-shore production of the spirit. Jefferson’s Ocean Aged at Sea Bourbon is produced in very small batches, with the barrels traveling to parts around the globe—the churning of wave action on the boat and the weather conditions contributing character to the process, delivering a gentle whiskey with crême brûlée and vanilla notes. Barrels see an average of 25 ports across 5 continents and cross the equator twice.

Ingredients

2 ounces Jefferson’s Ocean Aged at Sea Bourbon

1/2 teaspoon demerara sugar

3 dashes Angostura bitters

2–3 drops saline (8:2 water to salt ratio)

Thick-cut orange peel, for garnish

Spoon demerara sugar into a mixing glass and add bitters, stirring to combine. Add Jefferson’s Ocean Aged at Sea Bourbon, 2–3 drops of saline (of a 20% solution) and fill with ice. Stir 20–30 rotations (about 15 to 30 seconds) to achieve appropriate dilution and chill. Strain into a rocks glass over a large cube and garnish with thick cut orange peel. Go nuts and add a cherry, too, if desired.

Neighborhood: Lower East Side

Drink: Del Maguey Vida Negroni Blanc

This south-of-the-border twist with a French accent on nearby Little Italy’s favorite aperitivo is as delicious as it is hip. The slightly citrus Italicus, a white bitter used here in place of the traditional red, serves to uplift the smokey and floral notes of the Del Maguey Vida. A deceptively boozy but decidedly well-balanced twist on the classic you’ll want to sip all spring and summer.

Ingredients

¾ ounce Del Maguey Vida

¾ ounce Lillet Blanc

¾ ounce Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto

Lime peel, for garnish

Add all ingredients to a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir 20–30 rotations. Strain into a Nick and Nora glass. Express lime over glass and garnish with a lime peel.

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Wairau River: Rooted in Heritage, Rooted in Family

With origins dating back to 1870, the Rose family’s legacy is intrinsically tied to the Rapaura district of Marlborough, New Zealand. Roughly a century later, they changed the course of the region’s wine history.

What started as a standard agricultural operation has turned into one of the most dynamic and innovative wineries in the Wairau Valley. Today, this family-owned and -run estate continues to set the national standard for quality Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. 

A Family Affair

Phil and Chris Rose started off farming alfalfa for export to Japan. But when it became an economically unsustainable crop, they decided to plant grapes instead. In 1978, they rooted the first vines into what is now known as the Home Block Vineyard. In the early days, they supplemented production with fruit sourced from other local growers and sold wine under the name Rose Family Estate. Fast forward to 1991, the first wines under the label Wairau River were released. To this day, the estate remains a true family affair: All five Rose children are involved in the industry, with four (plus their partners) firmly at the helm of Wairau River. Wairau River (which translates to “many waters” in Māori) is now one of the largest family-owned wineries in New Zealand.

Pioneers in New Zealand Wine

Wairau River’s fruit comes solely from the 14 estate vineyards owned by the family. Located mainly along the banks of the eponymous waterway, these shallow and nutrient-poor soils yield a small number of grapes with intensely concentrated flavor. The region’s warm days and cool nights further benefit the fruit, which fully matures on the vine while developing bright acidity. This unique terroir and the family’s farming techniques enable Wairau River to craft wines of the highest quality.

These world-class selections include their Sauvignon Blanc. The family was a pioneer in this popular white wine decades before the greater Marlborough region achieved international acclaim for its expression of the varietal. The aromatic fruit comes from five different sites on the northern side of Wairau Valley: Home Block, Cravens, The Angler, Rapaura and Burnside. Planted in 1983, these 40-year-old vines produce grapes with stunning complexity and weight. The wine is fermented and aged in stainless steel to highlight its tropical fruit character and mineral quality.

The operation’s Pinot Noir also comes from five distinct blocks on the northern side of the valley. The family harvests these delicate grapes in the cool morning hours, gently destems bunches and hand plunges the grapes to extract color and tannins, all of which lend vibrant acidity and focus to the juice. Once fermentation is complete, wines rest for nine months in French oak barriques, which give the tannins a supple, rounded mouthfeel.

Another varietal that holds a special place in the family’s heart is Pinot Gris. Sourced exclusively from the Home Block—the Rose’s very first vineyard—these are some of the oldest Pinot Gris vines in the region. They produce highly nuanced wines with lively freshness and weight. But the family coaxes out even more texture from the varietal by resting it on the lees for extended periods to achieve the signature style of Wairau River Pinot Gris.

A Focus On Sustainability

From the outset, Phil and Chris knew conventional farming wouldn’t result in the terroir-driven style of wines they sought, nor would it aid in creating the legacy estate the family envisioned. Sustainability drives the family’s work.

Wairau River aligns itself with 11 of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, with a particular focus on environmental, social and governance initiatives. The winery is also a Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand member. By 2030, the family aims to send zero waste to landfills, reduce carbon emissions and increase their use of renewable energy. They also emphasize employee well-being and strive to lead with transparency when communicating with stakeholders. 

Click here to learn more about the Rose family, Wairau River and their wines.

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Win a Wine Lovers’ Trip For Two

to Chateau Magnol

 

The Heart of Barton & Guestier

in the Fabulous Region of Bordeaux France

Château Magnol is the heart of Barton & Guestier, hosting the company’s headquarters, guesthouse and a wine school, the B&G Food & Wine Academy.

Barton & Guestier is one of the oldest wine houses in Bordeaux from where Thomas Barton and Daniel Guestier established a reputation for French wines around the world. They were the first to offer all the great French wines under one name. In the USA, B&G wines were imported and recommended by Thomas Jefferson himself as from the end of the 18th century.

The Barton & Guestier Food & Wine Academy was created back in 1989 and has welcomed and trained around 450 trade partners per year. Guests immerse themselves in the “French Art of Living” experience while enjoying training, wine dinners, and food and wine pairing workshops among other offerings.

This incredible experience is now open for the readers from Wine Enthusiast by participating in the sweepstake!

Update: This sweepstakes has ended.

Château Magnol, an 18th century castle, offers 12 comfortable rooms where guests benefit from the serenity of the château life. An experienced team looks after the well-being of the guests and all of the courses are carefully prepared by Chef Yann Orgebin, Château Magnol’s dedicated Chef.  Orgebin pays great attention to the food & wine pairings to help discover new flavors and sensations, delight our senses and to enhance our wines.

The Barton & Guestier Food & Wine Academy presents a three-day educational program.
Omar Barbosa, Best Sommelier of Mexico, and Education & Hospitality Manager teaches various theoretical subjects like winemaking and tasting techniques, the French AOC system, and much more. Of course, the theory is combined with practical sessions of wine tasting, blending sessions and food & wine pairings. Our guests can try new combinations, taste, and find the match that delivers new emotions.

A walk through the vineyards of Château Magnol will lead you to the Domaine, where you will discover the cellars for vinification and barrel aging. We will show you some famous classified growths in the region and a take you on a visit to Bordeaux with our private guide. Château Magnol is looking forward to welcoming you!

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NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT OF MONEY IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN THIS SWEEPSTAKES. A PURCHASE OR PAYMENT OF MONEY WILL NOT IMPROVE THE CHANCES OF WINNING.

The “WINELOVERS Chateau Magnol” Sweepstakes (the “Sweepstakes”) is intended for legal residents of the United States of America (“USA”) and shall only be construed and evaluated according to applicable USA law and applicable state law. Do not enter this Sweepstakes if you are not a USA resident or are otherwise ineligible to enter in accordance with these Official Rules at the time of entry.

SPONSOR/ADMINISTRATOR: The Sweepstakes is sponsored by Wine Enthusiast Media, 200 Summit Lake Dr, Valhalla, NY, 10595 (the “Sponsor”) and administered by American Sweepstakes & Promotion Co., Inc., 300 State St. Suite 402 Rochester, NY 14614 (the “Administrator”).

ELIGIBILITY: The Sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the USA who are at least twenty-one (21) years of age at the time of entry (the “Entrants”). The Sponsor, Barton & Guestier, Chateau Magnol, the Administrator, their respective parent companies, employees, officers, directors, subsidiaries, affiliates, distributors, sales representatives and advertising and promotional agencies, and the officers, directors, agents, and employees of each of the foregoing (collectively, the “Released Parties”), and members of their immediate families (defined as including spouse, biological, adoptive and step-parents, grandparents, siblings, children and grandchildren, and each of their respective spouses, regardless of where they reside) or households (whether related or not) of any of the above are NOT eligible to participate in this Sweepstakes. Non-eligibility or non-compliance with any of these Official Rules will result in disqualification. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. (For the avoidance of doubt, any references in these Rules to Entrants shall also include the Entrant who is deemed the Winner (as defined below)).

AGREEMENT TO OFFICIAL RULES: By participating, Entrants agree to abide by and be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsor, which are final and binding in all matters relating to the Sweepstakes. Winning the Prize (as defined below) is contingent upon fulfilling all requirements set forth herein.

HOW TO ENTER: The Sweepstakes begins at 12:00:01 a.m. EST on February 1, 2024 and ends at 11:59:59 p.m. EST on March 31, 2024 (“Sweepstakes Period”). The Sponsor’s database computer is the official time-keeping device for the Sweepstakes. Entrants can also enter the Sweepstakes by completing the registration form available at https://www.wineenthusiast.com/winelovers-trip-for-two (the “Website”). Each completed registration form will generate one (1) Sweepstakes entry. To be valid, each entry must provide all requested information. Proof of entry information at the Website is not considered proof of delivery to or receipt by Sponsor of an entry. Entries made by any other individual or any entity, and/or originating at any other website or email address, including, but not limited to, commercial Sweepstakes subscription notification and/or entering service sites, will be declared invalid and disqualified for this Sweepstakes. The use of automated entry devices is prohibited, and no mechanically reproduced entries are allowed; all such entries are void.

Limit one (1) entry per Entrant. The Released Parties are not responsible for late, incomplete, delayed, undelivered, or misdirected entries. All entries become the exclusive property of Sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned except as provided herein. By participating, you consent to Sponsor’s and its agents’ use of your personal information for the administration of this Sweepstakes, or in any other manner consistent with Sponsor’s Privacy Policy, available at https://help.wineenthusiast.com/hc/en-us/articles/9140823337229-Privacy-Policy.

GENERAL CONDITIONS: If for any reason the operation or administration of this Sweepstakes is impaired or incapable of running as planned for any reason, including but not limited to (i) infection by computer virus, bugs, (ii) tampering, unauthorized intervention, (iii) fraud, (iv) technical failures, or (v) any other causes beyond the control of the Sponsor which corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper conduct of this Sweepstakes, the Sponsor reserves the right at its sole discretion, to disqualify any individual who tampers with the entry process, and to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the Sweepstakes in whole or in part, at any time, without notice and award the Prize (defined below) using all non-suspect eligible entries received as of, or after (if applicable) this cancellation, termination, modification or suspension date, or in any manner that is fair and equitable and best conforms to the spirit of these Official Rules. Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify any individual deemed to be tampering or attempting to tamper with the entry process or the operation of the Sweepstakes or Sponsor’s Website; or acting in violation of these Official Rules or in an unsportsmanlike or disruptive manner.

CAUTION: ANY ATTEMPT TO DELIBERATELY DAMAGE ANY WEBSITE OR UNDERMINE THE LEGITIMATE OPERATION OF THE SWEEPSTAKES IS A VIOLATION OF CRIMINAL AND CIVIL LAWS AND SHOULD SUCH AN ATTEMPT BE MADE; THE SPONSOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO SEEK DAMAGES OR OTHER REMEDIES FROM ANY SUCH PERSON(S) RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ATTEMPT TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW.

Failure by the Sponsor to enforce any provision of these Official Rules shall not constitute a waiver of that provision. In the event of a dispute as to the identity of a Winner based on an email address, the winning entry will be declared by the authorized account holder of the email address associated with the registration in question. “Authorized account holder” is defined as the natural person who is assigned to an email address by an Internet access provider, online service provider or other organization (e.g., business, educational, institution, etc.) that is responsible for assigning email addresses for the domain associated with the submitted email address.

RELEASE AND LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: By participating in the Sweepstakes, Entrants agree to release and hold harmless the Released Parties from and against any claim or cause of action arising out of participation in the Sweepstakes or receipt or use of any Prize, including, but not limited to: (i) any technical errors that may prevent an Entrant from submitting an entry; (ii) unauthorized human intervention in the Sweepstakes; (iii) printing errors; (iv) errors in the administration of the Sweepstakes or the processing of entries; or (v) injury, death, or damage to persons or property which may be caused, directly or indirectly, in whole or in part, from Entrant’s participation in the Sweepstakes or receipt of the Prize (defined below). Released Parties assume no responsibility for any error, omission, interruption, deletion, defect, delay in operation or transmission, communications line failure, theft or destruction or unauthorized access to, or alteration of, entries. Released Parties are not responsible for any problems or technical malfunction of any telephone network or telephone lines, computer online systems, servers, or providers, computer equipment, software, failure of any email or entry to be received by Sponsor on account of technical problems, human error or traffic congestion on the Internet or at any Website, or any combination thereof, including any injury or damage to Entrant’s or any other person’s computer relating to or resulting from participation in this Sweepstakes or downloading any materials in this Sweepstakes. Entrants further agree that in any cause of action, the Released Parties’ liability will be limited to the cost of entering and participating in the Sweepstakes, and in no event shall the Released Parties be liable for attorney fees. Entrants waive the right to claim any damages whatsoever, including, but not limited to, punitive, consequential, direct, or indirect damages. For New Jersey Residents: nothing herein bars recovery of damages or attorneys’ fees where mandated by statute.

Except as expressly provided above, IN NO EVENT WILL RELEASED PARTIES BE RESPONSIBLE OR LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES OR LOSSES OF ANY KIND (INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES) ARISING OUT OF PARTICIPATION IN THIS SWEEPSTAKES OR THE ACCEPTANCE, POSSESSION, USE, OR MISUSE OF, OR ANY HARM RESULTING FROM THE ACCEPTANCE, POSSESSION, USE OR MISUSE OF A PRIZE.

By participating, Entrants release and agree to hold harmless the Released Parties from any and all liability for any injuries, death or losses or damages to persons or property AS WELL AS CLAIMS/ACTIONS BASED ON PUBLICITY RIGHTS, DEFAMATION, AND/OR INVASION OF PRIVACY that may arise from participating in this Sweepstakes or its related activities or the acceptance, possession, use or misuse of, or any harm resulting from the acceptance, possession, use or misuse of a Prize. Released Parties are not liable in the event that any portion of the Sweepstakes is cancelled due to weather, fire, strike, acts of war or terrorism, pandemic, or any other condition beyond their control.

EACH ENTRANT UNDERSTANDS AND AGREES THAT ALL RIGHTS UNDER SECTION 1542 OF THE CIVIL CODE OF CALIFORNIA AND ANY SIMILAR LAW OF ANY STATE OR TERRITORY OF THE USA ARE HEREBY EXPRESSLY WAIVED BY HIM/HER.  SECTION 1542 READS AS FOLLOWS:

“A GENERAL RELEASE DOES NOT EXTEND TO CLAIMS THAT THE CREDITOR OR RELEASING PARTY DOES NOT KNOW OR SUSPECT TO EXIST IN HIS OR HER FAVOR AT THE TIME OF EXECUTING THE RELEASE AND THAT, IF KNOWN BY HIM OR HER, WOULD HAVE MATERIALLY AFFECTED HIS OR HER SETTLEMENT WITH THE DEBTOR OR RELEASED PARTY.”

DRAWING AND NOTIFICATION: The potential Prize Winner will be selected in a random drawing conducted by the Administrator. The Prize drawing will be conducted on or about April 3, 2024. Odds of winning the Prize will depend on the total number of eligible entries received throughout the Sweepstakes Period. The potential Prize Winner will be contacted by the Sponsor (or Administrator) via phone and/or email.

PRIZE: There will be one (1) Grand Prize available. The Grand Prize Winner (“Winner”), upon the Administrator’s confirmation of eligibility, will receive a 5-day/4-night trip for two (2) people to Bordeaux, France (the “Location”). The Grand Prize package includes:

-Two (2) roundtrip standard economy airfare tickets from a major commercial airport in the USA, near the Winner’s primary residence and the Location, as determined by Sponsor. Departure from the USA will be on a Sunday to ensure arrival in the Location on Monday afternoon.

-Pickup from Bordeaux Airport (or Bordeaux train station) and transfer to Chateau Magnol and back

-Transportations for the visits in the afternoons

-4 nights at Chateau Magnol in a double room + breakfast (room and tax only)

-3 lunches (3 courses, wines)

-4 dinners (4 courses, wines)

-3 “Master Classes” (tasting, blending, food & wine pairing workshops) (in the mornings)

-3 Visits (in the afternoons) – Visit in Bordeaux city with our private guide, visits to 2 other Growths in the region including transportation.

-A full visit of the Chateau, its private cellars, and the Domaine.

(collectively, the “Grand Prize” or “Prize”)

The Approximate Retail Value (“ARV”) of the total Grand Prize package is $4,800 USD, which will vary depending upon points of departure and destination and seasonal fluctuation of hotel rates and airfares. All other expenses not specifically mentioned herein, including but not limited to, airport taxes and fees, baggage fees, ground transportation not specifically delineated, food, beverages, additional hotel amenities or fees and gratuities, are the responsibility of the Winner and/or traveling companion. The Sponsor is not responsible for any cancellations, delays, diversions or substitutions or any act or omissions whatsoever by the air transportation carriers, hotels or other transportation companies or any other persons providing any of these services and accommodations necessitated by same. The Sponsor shall not be liable for any loss or damage to baggage and/or personal property. Travel, hotel, and other accommodations are subject to availability. The Grand Prize Winner and their traveling companion must travel on the same itinerary. The Winner and travel companion are solely responsible for obtaining documents necessary for their respective international travel (i.e., passport and visa if applicable). The trip must be fully executed by December 31, 2024 or the Prize will be forfeited. All travel dates are subject to change in the Sponsor’s sole discretion. Certain blackout dates and material restrictions may apply.

The value of the Prize set forth above represents Sponsor’s good faith determinations of the ARV thereof and such determinations are final and binding and cannot be appealed. If the actual value of the Prize is lower than the stated ARV when the Prize is procured and fulfilled, then the difference will not be awarded. NOTE: Substitution, assignment or transfer of the Prize is not permitted, except by Sponsor, who reserves the right to substitute the Prize or any Prize component with another of equal or greater value.

ADDITIONAL PRIZE CONDITIONS: By accepting the Prize, the Winner agrees to release and hold harmless the Released Parties from and against any claim or cause of action arising out of participation in the Sweepstakes or receipt or use of the Prize. The potential Winner must sign and return to the Administrator, within seven (7) days of the date of notice or attempted notice is sent, an Affidavit of Eligibility, Liability & Publicity Release in order to claim the Prize. The Winner’s traveling companion will be required to complete a Travel Companion Waiver. Note: The Affidavit sent to a potential Winner will require that the Winner provide their Social Security Number to the Administrator, which will be used solely for tax reporting purposes. The Winner will be responsible for all local, state, and federal taxes associated with the receipt of the Prize. The Winner must note that the value of the Prize is taxable as income and an IRS Form 1099 will be filed in the name of the Winner for the value of the Prize. The Winner is solely responsible for all matters relating to the Prize after it is awarded. If a Prize or Prize notification is returned as unclaimed or undeliverable to the potential winner, if a potential Winner cannot be reached or does not comply with notification instructions within three (3) days from the first notification attempt, if a potential Winner fails to return requisite document(s) within the specified time period, or if a potential Winner is not in compliance with these Official Rules, then such person shall be disqualified and, at Sponsor’s sole discretion, an alternate Winner may be selected.

By accepting the Prize, where permitted by law, the Winner grants to the Released Parties and those acting pursuant to the authority of Sponsor and the Released Parties (which grant will be confirmed in writing upon Sponsor’s request), the right to print, publish, broadcast and use worldwide IN ALL MEDIA without limitation at any time their full name, portrait, picture, voice, likeness and/or biographical information for advertising, trade and promotional purposes without further payment or additional consideration, and without review, approval or notification. The Winner also acknowledges that Released Parties have neither made nor are in any manner responsible or liable for any warranty, representation, or guarantee, express or implied, in fact or in law, relative to the Prize.

DISPUTES: All issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules or the rights and obligations of Entrants, Administrator, and Sponsor in connection with the Sweepstakes shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions that would cause the application of any other state’s, province’s, or jurisdiction’s laws. By participating in the Sweepstakes, Entrant agrees that: (i) any and all disputes, claims, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with the Sweepstakes, shall be resolved individually without resort to any form of class action; (ii) any judicial proceeding shall take place in a court within the State of New York; (iii) any and all claims, judgments , and awards shall be limited to actual out-of-pocket costs incurred, including costs associated with entering this Sweepstakes, but in no event will attorney fees be awarded or recoverable; (iv) under no circumstances will Entrant be permitted to obtain awards for, and Entrant hereby waives all rights to seek, punitive, incidental, exemplary, consequential, special damages, lost profits, other damages, and/or any rights to have damages multiplied or otherwise increased; and (v) Entrant’s remedies are limited to a claim for money damages (if any) and he/she waives any right to seek injunctive or equitable relief.

SEVERABILITY: The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of these Official Rules will not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision. If any provision of the Official Rules is determined to be invalid or otherwise unenforceable, the other provisions will remain in effect and will be construed as if the invalid or unenforceable provision were not contained herein.

MISCELLANEOUS: These Official Rules contain the full and complete understanding with respect to the Sweepstakes and supersede all prior and contemporaneous agreements, representations, and understandings, whether oral or written. The headings herein are for convenience only, do not constitute a part of these Official Rules, and shall not be deemed to limit or affect any of the provisions hereof. No amendment to, or waiver of, any provision of these Official Rules shall be effective unless in writing and signed by both Sponsor and Administrator. The waiver by Sponsor or Administrator of any provision of these Official Rules shall not constitute a waiver of any other provision herein. The rights and obligations hereunder may not be assigned by Entrants, whether by operation of law or otherwise, without the prior written consent of Sponsor, and any attempted assignment in violation of the foregoing shall be null and void. These Official Rules shall be binding upon, and inure to the benefit of, the permitted successors and assigns of Sponsor, Administrator, and Entrant. 

WINNERS LIST REQUEST: To request confirmation of the first name, last initial, city, and state of residence of the Winner, please send a self-addressed, stamped business size envelope, by May 15, 2024, to: ASC/WEM Chateau Magnol Sweepstakes Winners List Request, 300 State St. Ste. 402, Rochester, NY 14614.

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Small Vineyards, Big Personalities:
The Unexpected Side of Bordeaux

The Left and Right Banks have long commanded the industry’s attention. But the real soul of Bordeaux is found in the Graves-Sauternes region. Backed by passionate vignerons with impressive viticultural lineages, the wines created in this special corner of the world have never taken the trendy—or easy—path. Instead, these winemakers have focused on producing high-quality bottles that span the entire flavor profile spectrum, from red to white, dry to sweet, affordable to precious, and everywhere in between. This diversity of world-class wines has only been made possible by the artisanal techniques, innovation, and, above all, the bold spirit of the local families who continue to pioneer the region’s wines forward day in and day out.

The sweet wines produced nearby in Sauternes and Barsac are also coveted around the globe. While Sauternes is a wider region, famous for crafting boutique sweet white wines since the 16th century, Barsac is a communal appellation within greater Sauternes that derives its identity from limestone soils and fresh minerality. A combination of a labor-intensive process and the uniquely humid microclimate, created by the Sauternes region’s proximity to the Garonne and Ciron rivers, allows for the development of botrytis, otherwise known as noble rot. The 140 winegrowers in the area are well-versed in working with the fungus that shrivels and concentrates the grapes and use their long-standing knowledge to produce the region’s acclaimed Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc and/or Muscadelle-based wines. As per the Classification of 1855, Sauternes and Barsac were the most highly calcified regions, clocking in with a distinguished 27 Crus Classés. Known for their honeyed, candied flavor profile and incredibly complex aromas (more than 50 per glass), Sauternes and Barsac wines are capable of very long aging — and once a bottle is opened, it will remain fresh for up to a month. These sweet wines pair perfectly with any number of dishes — such as cheese and charcuterie, foie gras, savory dishes, shellfish, fresh fruit, and desserts — or they can be enjoyed on their own as an apéritif.

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Going to Extremes With Tara
and Ventisquero Wines

When wine producer Ventisquero was founded 25 years ago, the goal was to always push boundaries in Chile. The South American nation, with its numerous zones and climates, was a viticultural wonderland just waiting to be discovered. In 2007, Ventisquero ventured to a part of the country where no winemaker had ever gone before: the Atacama Desert, which is known as the driest desert in the world. Here, they created Tara, a line of terroir-expressive wines that reflect one of the most unique grape-growing climates in all of Chile.

The Atacama Desert lies in the northern half of Chile. It stretches approximately 700 miles from north to south, and from west to east is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Andes mountains. For the Tara project, the Ventisquero team identified a site located 13 miles from the sea.

The land surprised them in many ways. Every day, a thick blanket of fog rolls in from the Pacific. Called “Camanchaca,” it passes through the desert on its way inland, bringing with it cold temperatures that last well throughout the morning. However, daytime highs reach only about 75 degrees Fahrenheit—far more moderate than the expected 100-degree days. “This is a cool-climate desert,” says winemaker Alejandro Galaz, who, along with Ventisquero’s chief winemaker Felipe Tosso, produce Tara.

Another shock awaited them underfoot. Instead of the expected granitic soils, in which the vines for most of Chile’s highest-end wines thrive, they encountered limestone. “We understood, in that moment, that we were in the presence of something really special,” says Galaz. They quickly switched growing strategies. Instead of the Carménère and Bordeaux varieties they intended to plant, they cultivated Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and other cool-climate varieties.

However, in the second year, the Ventisquiero team had quite the shock: The majority of the vines died unexpectedly, prompting intense soil studies. These yielded yet another surprise—the soil contained a high salt content, nearly ten times the amount that vines can usually handle. Still, the small percentage that survived yielded extraordinary fruit with a uniquely saline quality, which proved they needed to continue with the project.

Over the years, the team experimented with various irrigation techniques using the fresh water from the Huasco River, which flows to the growing spot from the mountains, until they hit upon what they felt was an ideal balance. Galaz says they never want to eliminate the salt completely. That would mask the true terroir of the land.

Instead, Galaz is adamant about only employing low-intervention farming and vinification methods, which allow the wines to truly express their origins. Only estate fruit is used, which ensures total control over grape quality. Spontaneous fermentation, no fining or filtering and only a tiny bit of sulfur added at bottling allow the wines’ pure expressions to emerge.

Although the first couple of vintages were made as blends, Galaz quickly decided to focus on varietal bottlings. “The character of the place was so strong, it didn't make any sense to put another layer of complexity or another layer of flavor with other varieties,” he says.

The Chardonnay comes from a mere five acres of low-yield vines. Limestone soils and the cool desert climate provide freshness and acidity. With the high salt content, there is a tingle of salinity on the long, vibrant finish. “When you use this wine for pairings, the minerality, structure and saltiness give another dimension for chefs and sommeliers to match with food,” says Galaz.

Seeing how singular the vineyard site is, the Tara team knew they needed to do something different with their aging protocol for the Pinot Noir. In addition to aging in French oak barrels, a portion of the wines spend time in bespoke concrete eggs, which incorporate stones from the Atamaca desert in the material. The result is a savory and structured Pinot Noir with tension and verve.

“The freedom to innovate has been the company philosophy from the beginning, since the Vial family, owner of Ventisquero has always trusted our endeavors” says Galaz. To learn more about Tara and Ventisquero, visit ventisquerowineclub.com and follow @ventisquero_wines on Instagram.

Vino del Sol : Exclusive U.S importer for Tara Wines
https://vinodelsol.com/thewineries/tara/

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