I was sitting in my recliner perusing the sports page and absorbing the college basketball scores to ready myself for picking my March Madness basketball brackets.  My wife called me from the kitchen with an overemphasized, “Honey, please come here – right now!”  I reluctantly headed for the kitchen to see what crisis was about to bestowed upon me.  As I entered the kitchen, she started telling me about our wine tasting party next week.  She had purchased two dozen bottles of various types of wine, several pounds of cheese, a plethora of varied crackers and enough green vegetable snacks to feed an army of rabbits.

She started out the conversation emphasizing that she was doing all the work for this party and that I only had one insignificant job to do.   She said, “Your job is to accumulate enough ice buckets from our friends and family to keep eight to twelve wine bottles chilled and available for our quests to enjoy.”  Since we had only one qualifying ice bucket, I knew I had better get going on this task.

The Search

Several calls to friends, family, co-workers and a few strangers netted me promises for only 3 more ice buckets.  I was striking out on the only “insignificant task” that I ever had. My savior in doing research has always been the internet so off to the computer room I went.  I searched for wine chillers and servers looked at many listings and stumbled upon a solution to my dilemma.

The Solution

I found an 8 bottle wine cooler  that stored bottles upright in round openings, while keeping the wine cooled to a temperature of my choosing.  Additionally, the wine chiller had a thermoelectric cooling system that was eco-friendly in that it did not use CFC chemicals in its cooling system.  This was the perfect solution for improving our entertainment ability and enhancing the wine tasting party my wife had been religiously planning for weeks.  I bought one on line and the delivery took only a few days.

Being aware of all the wine my wife had bought and the number of guests she had invited, I was doing the math and figured out that each person would have to drink at least two bottles of wine each. I hoped that wouldn’t be the case as we only have one extra bedroom for people to sleep off the buzz they surely would get.  This wine bottle chiller  and server that I had purchased could also very easily handle the partially consumed wine by re-corking them and placing them back in the cooler in the upright position. I was so proud of myself that I patted myself on the back more times than I could count.

While this story was written to provide some humor, there is a new wine cooler and server now being offered that will make wine tasting parties easier to hold.  I have included a copy of the specifications below for your information.

Summit 8 Bottle Wine Cooler and Server

FEATURES: * Energy Efficent, Quiet Thermoelectric Operation * Sleek Black, Easy To Clean Finish * Light Weight Portability (weights only 26 pounds) * Unique Design Meets Entertainment Needs * 115 Volts/60 Hz * Rating: 2.0 Amps * Digital Thermostat * Easy to Read Control Panel * Interior Circulation Fan * Interior Light
CAPACITY: * 8 Wine Bottles (vertical position)
DIMENSIONS: * Width 28.88 Inches x Depth 12.75 Inches x Height 9.38 Inches
MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY: * 12 months parts and labor

Author: Ronald Senn, Vice-president, Ideal Wine Coolers

In 1999, the state had a grand total of 2 licensed wineries, but now can boast that there are more than 85.  In the twelve years since 1999, Iowa can boast about what many call an “explosive expansion” in wine related industries.  The first commercial vineyard planted in the state was in 1857.  When Prohibition became a reality in the United States and following many unplanned events in the late 1800s, the Iowa grape growing industry pretty much disappeared until its recent growth spurt. Iowa was recently ranked 14^th nationally in the number of wineries and 22^nd in production.

Iowa wineries are in what I would call a time of trial and error when it comes to grape growing.  Many times new vineyards are initially planted with several grape varieties just to see which ones will grow and which will not.  Some of the grape types currently cultivated are: Bluebell, Catawba, Chardonel, Concord, La Crosse, Niagara, Steuben and Vidal Blanc.  Several other varieties are also grown, but most commercial wine growing focuses on French hybrids and grapes native to America.  Agricultural Extension Services at Iowa and Minnesota Colleges continue to provide expert advice to current and potential grape growers to improve the odds of success.

There are no recognized official wine growing regions in Iowa.  The three primary grape growing areas that I recognize are located near the cities of Dubuque (Dubuque and Jackson Counties), Des Moines-Ames (Story, Polk, Dallas, Madison, Warren, Boone, Jasper and Marion Counties) and Council Bluffs (Fremont, Mills and Pottawattamie Counties).  Other counties that have notable grape growing operations are Carroll, Jefferson and Van Buren Counties.  Many of these operations are small family run collaborations where grapes are often harvested by hand.  Total Iowan area in grape production is about 1200 acres spread out on over 400 vineyards.

While the Iowa grape industry is considered in its infancy, a 2007 economic study showed it did account for an economic impact to the state of $235 million dollars with over 10 percent of that total attributed to tourism.  Wine touring trails are starting to develop that will further enhance the tourism aspect of this industry.  Many wineries make addition income by renting their tasting rooms for use in parties or wedding receptions.

If you are ever in Iowa, take the time to visit some of these family wineries and vineyards.  You may be surprised to find a wine you will really like, but I do know you will meet some wonderful, hardworking people in the process.  Remember, buy the wine you like, store and serve it at its optimal temperature and enjoy it completely.

Author: Ronald Senn, Vice-president, Idealwinecoolers.com

History of Virginia Wine Growing

Although grape growing first started in the infamous area of Jamestown in the 1600’s, the wine industry was pretty much a failure to begin with.  Success finally started to become a reality in the early 1800’s.  Notoriety for Virginia wines really came to light at the Vienna’s World Fair in 1873 when a Virginia Norton wine was named “Best Red Wine of All Nations”.  The wine industry in the entire United States was drastically set back by Prohibition (1920-1933) and Virginia was no exception.  Virginia commercial grape growing totaled only 15 acres in the early 1950’s.  Since then Virginia’s wine industry has experienced wide spread growth and now can claim over 190 different wineries in the state.  Virginia is currently ranked 5^th amongst U.S. states for wine production.

Wine Growing Regions

Virginia is divided into nine recognized wine growing regions.  The Northern Virginia, Shenandoah and Central Virginia Regions have approximately 78 percent of all the wineries in the state.  The Blue Ridge Highlands, Southern Virginia and Chesapeake Bay Regions account for another 17 percent of the wineries.  The remaining regions, Heart of Appalachia, Hampton Roads and Eastern Virginia account for the remaining 5 percent of the state’s wineries.  Annette Boyd is the Director of the Virginia Wine Board Marketing Office.  In her presentation to the Virginia Vineyards Association in 2009, Annette stated that “Total grape production was up 25% in 2008 from the previous year” and “Total grape production was up 22.8% in 2009” from 2008.  The wine industry in Virginia is definitely quickly on the rise.

Wine Types Grown

Virginia’s climate, topography and soils allow growers to cultivate a broad range of great grapes.  The combination of these special characteristics that affect wine helps vintners create wines that are especially tasteful with food.  Standard wines include Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet France, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Merlot, Virginia Norton, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier.  Virginia Viognier is now recognized as an acceptable term among wine fanciers.  Virginia Viognier wine, along with Virginia Cabernet Franc and native Norton, are fast becoming the state’s most notable wines.  You will most probably find a Virginia Wine available to enjoy in many upscale restaurants.

Touring Virginia Wine Country

If you like to tour various areas that produce wine, Virginia offers an extensive choice of “wine trails” to explore.  Bedford County, Blue Ridge, Chesapeake Bay, Loudoun, Monticello, Mountain Road, Shenandoah Valley and Tuskie are just a few of the wine trail names.  The character of Virginia abounds with American history and small scattered communities across the state that will make any wine tour you decide to try a truly enlightened experience.

I intend to try some Virginia wines when I visit my son on our next trip.  I am sure that I will find one or more to my liking.  I am betting, given the broad range of grape varieties found in Virginia, that you also will find one to your liking.  As I always say, buy the wine that you like, store it properly in a wine refrigerator and then serve it at the perfect temperature.  Your enjoyment of that favorite vintage will be enhanced.

Author: Ronald Senn, Vice-president, Ideal Wine Coolers

New York Wine Growing Areas

New York State has six areas that currently define its wine country.  The areas are 1) Lake Erie-Chautauqua, 2) Niagara Escarpment, 3) Finger Lakes, 4) Hudson River Valley-Catskills, 5) New York City and 6) Long Island-North Folk-Hamptons.   Another area that previously has not been considered a part of the state’s wine country is Central New York-Lake Ontario, an area experiencing recent wine industry growth. The three most important areas Lake Erie-Chautauqua, Finger Lakes and Long Island-North Fork-Hamptons have over 95 percent of the vineyard acres, over 75 percent of the bonded wineries and over 95 percent of the tons of grapes produced in the entire state.  In an article by Debra J. Goon, she discusses New York’s grape and wine industry as contributing $3.76 billion to the state’s economy.  New York ranks third behind California and Washington in grape production by volume.

Wine Grape Types

The grape growing seasons in the state range from about 180 days in the northern areas (Finger Lakes and Upper Hudson River Valley) to 230 days near the Long Island area.  Annual precipitation across the state averages 30 to 50 inches per year.  Wines produced include Sparkling Wines, Seyval, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Ice Wines, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Gewurztraminer, and Merlot.   Many American hybrid grapes such as Catawba, Delaware, Elvira, Ives and Isabella are also grown.  Important French hybrid grapes grown, noted to make great wines, are Cayuga, Vidal and Vignoles.  Concord grapes are grown primarily for use in juices.

Wine Trails and Tours

The state has several notable wine trails that would make excellent tour destinations.   Trails can be found near the cities of Fredonia, Niagara, Penn Yan, Fayette, Watkins Glen, Marlboro, Clinton Corners, Williamson, Alexandria Bay and Riverhead.   Visiting a winery could easily be coupled with visiting other state attractions like Niagara Falls, Sterling Renaissance Festival, Erie Canal, Everson Museum, Allegany State Park, Catskill Park or even the Long Island Beaches.   Often a side-trip taking you away from your primary destination focus is a welcome relief; at least it has been that way for me.  I bet you might even find a wine that you can add to your list of favorites.

Take the time to check out New York’s wine industry.  As I always say, buy the wine you like, store wine properly in a wine refrigerator, serve it at the proper temperature and enjoy it immensely.

Author: Ronald Senn, Vice-president, Ideal Wine Coolers, October 2010

 Wine Growing History 

In the 1770’s, French settlers first introduced wine making to small village in Illinois now called Peoria.  Emile Baxter, along with his sons, opened a winery along the banks of the Mississippi River near Nauvoo in 1857.  The Baxter Vineyard remains the oldest operating winery in Illinois.  Before prohibition, Illinois laid claim to being the fourth largest wine producing state in America.  Prohibition, as it did in many states, virtually caused the wine growing industry to disappear in Illinois until resurgence in the late 1970’s.  By the year 2001, there were 27 wineries and, in the last nine years, another 63 have been added – a 330 percent increase in the past decade. 

  Wine Growing Zones

Illinois is divided into four major wine growing zones.  Each zone approximately divides the state into quarters with the growing zone boundaries running east to west.  The zones are aptly named the Northern, Central, South Central and Southern.  Nearly one-half of the vineyards are located in Jackson, Union, Johnson and Jo Daviess Counties.  About 55 percent of the wineries are located in Union, Jackson, Madison, Adams, De Kalb and Randolph Counties.  Illinois has the capacity to produce approximately 850,000 gallons of wine per year but is currently operating at about 65 percent of capacity.  Grapes are cultivated on approximately 1200 acres in the state. 

  Wine Grapes Cultivated 

Of the grape area harvested, twelve wine grape varieties comprise nearly ninety percent of the harvest.  The following twelve varieties, listed from most produced to least are: Chardonel, Chambourcin, Vignoles, Traminette, Concord, Foch, Seyval, Norton, Vidal Blanc, Frontenac, Niagara and Cayuga White.  The Northern and Southern zones account for 57 percent of the cultivated acres of grapes.  Many of the grapes grown are considered hybrid varieties adapted to the cold climates of the state.  Fruit wines from apples, peaches and berries are also recognized as a key category within the state’s wine industry. 

 Wine Tours

The wine producing community of Illinois has four designated wine trails that are ideal to tour.  The wine trails are Shawnee Hills (Southern Zone), Northern Illinois, Illinois River and Heartland Rivers.  Any of these trails are worth the effort to explore and enjoy.  There are established bus tour companies that will allow you to taste as much wine as you want and leave the driving to them.  Interstate highways abound and make traveling to one of the wine trail tours easy.  Award winning wineries like the 2010 State Fair entry from Prairie State Winery will surely reward your palette.  Other notable wineries winning awards at the 2010 Fair were Lynfred, Spirit Knot, Hickory Ridge, Hill Prairie and August Hill Wineries. 

Illinois offers a great selection of tasty wines you should try.  It will still boil down in the end to what wine suits your palette.  As I always say, buy the wine you like, store wine properly in a wine cooler, serve it at the proper temperature and enjoy it immensely. 

Author: Ronald Senn, Vice-president, Ideal Wine Coolers, July 2010

Washington’s Two Wine Growing Areas

Washington can be generally divided into two  grape growing zones with approximately 34 to 36 thousand acres under cultivation.  One zone is defined as the Interstate 5 corridor on the west side of the Cascade Range.  This zone receives adequate rainfall to grow grapes (average of 48 inches per year).  The other zone is defined as the plains on the east side of the Cascade Range.  Storms in Washington generally arrive from the northwest Pacific Ocean coastal area and move to the east.  As these storms push through the Cascade Range, abundant rainfall occurs on the west side of the mountains.  Later, these same air masses push over the Cascades much drier than when they arrived.  This produces a rain-shadow effect (average of 8 inches per year) because of the topographic lifting of the air mass over the coastal mountains.  Because of the rain shadow effects of the Cascade Range, this area often must use various irrigation techniques to maximize grape production.

Washington Wine Production Facts

The grape growing season in Washington is generally from March to September each year.  Harvesting starts in August and can run as late as November.  Washington is the second largest wine-producing state with only California out doing them.  Washington’s grape annual production is approximately 160 to 170 tons of grapes, which is only a fraction of California’s production of 3.6 to 3.8 million tons.  Prohibition arrived in 1920 banning alcohol-based beverages, and, as in other states, set the wine producing industry back.  The industry is building rapidly based on the availability of reasonably affordable land, but because most of the vineyards are small operations, the per bottle production costs are higher than most other areas in the country.  Washington wines are generally more expensive than wines produced elsewhere.  It remains to be seen if this will be restrictive and problematic as    Washington’s wine industry  grows.  Meanwhile, one article I reviewed stated a new winery opens about every other week with the current total around 650 wineries.

Washington Wine Types

The quality of Washington wines cannot be disputed.  The wines from this region have won numerous awards and are currently marketed in every U.S. state and 40 other countries.  Some of the leading red grapes found are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet France, Malbec, Sangiovese, Pinot Noir and Lemberger.  Some of the leading white varietals are Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Viognier, Semillon and Chenin Blanc.  White wine production is 54 percent of the total, while red wine is 46 percent of the total.  The  wine producing industry economic impact to Washington State is estimated to be in the neighborhood of 3 billion dollars a year.

Washington Wine Tour Planning

Touring wineries and vineyards is an excellent way to pass the time.  Cities in the Interstate 5 corridor that could serve as a tour base are Vancouver, Longview, Olympia, Tacoma, Seattle, Everett, Mt. Vernon, Bellingham and Fern Dale.  Wine production in the more arid eastern side of the Cascade Range is more scattered across the area.  Cities that could serve as a tour base are Spokane, Brewster, Chelan, Wenatchee, Yakima, Moses Lake, Toppenish, Richland and Walla Walla.  One thing I did notice, when visiting the few vineyards that I have, is that  during your wine tours often you will get a great view of a snow-covered peak.  I have also found another blogger that had a great experience touring Washington and visiting wineries and breweries.

When visiting Washington, touring its wine country will be very rewarding.  Some great wines are produced; the small wine growing operations are friendly to visit; and a landscape of beautiful views will reward you.  Remember, buy the wine you like, have a good wine storage cooler, serve it at the proper temperature and enjoy it immensely.

Author: Ronald Senn, Vice-president, Ideal Wine Coolers, July 2010

Biggest Wine Country

Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay

Visit Texas Hills Area

Many of us have danced the Texas Two-step.  I found another Texas tradition, the Texas Two-sip.  The Texas Two-sip is a challenging, blind taste test of a collection of in state and out of state wines.  The goal is to use your taste buds to find the best.  There are special rules and forms to fill out, but no specific rules on what food you can eat.  Sounds like a party to me.  The only caution I have is I did not find out the rule when you get to take your blindfold off.  Be careful where you step.

When I was in the military traveling home on leave, I had car trouble in Fredericksburg.  The people took me in, fed me and housed me, while the resident mechanic repaired my heap.  When I was getting ready to leave, they gave me the gift of a thank you for my service and covered all my bills.  Because of the wine growing there, I now have another reason to take a pause there.  Look out Highway 290 here we come.

Author: Ronald Senn, Vice-president, Ideal Wine Coolers, June 2010

Any one that has spent any time in Minnesota knows about the short growing seasons and the long winters. Infamous names in Minnesota wine growing lore include Louis Suelter, 1870 era German homesteader from Carver, Minnesota and A. W Latham, a Minneapolis transplant in 1865.  Both of these men spent considerable time and effort producing new types of growing grapes adapted to the climate of the state. 

Conditions as found in this state are not conducive to development of a substantial wine industry.  However, the University of Minnesota reported in 2008 that the wine industry’s total impact to the state’s economy was a little over 36 million dollars.  Employment was around 324 people with a labor income of around 10 million dollars.  Some would say “that ain’t hay”. 

Many grape varieties require special handling to protect them from the winter weather, including in some places burying the vines under soil for the season.  Research has developed several hybrid and other grape varieties that are cold hardy.  Grapes produced include Marquette, Frontenac Gris, Frontenac, Chambourcin, Chardonnay, Concord, Edelweiss, Delaware, La Crescent, La Crosse, St Croix and several others. 

There are approximately 30 wineries in the state of Minnesota.  Most are located within the lower Mississippi, Saint Croix and Cannon River Valleys in the southeast quadrant of the state.  Most of these wineries have websites one can visit to get specific information on their operations.  Wine crop harvest generally happens in September but will vary slightly depending on the variety. 

A recent addition to the wine scene in Minnesota is the Three Rivers Wine Trail.  This Trail was established to feature the Wine Haven, Northern, Saint Croix, Falconer and Cannon River Vineyards in the southeastern part of the state.  These vineyards are five of the oldest in the state.  There are several events planned at these wineries and at the same time, you can explore towns like Chisago City, Stillwater, Red Wing and Cannon Falls.

During my research, I ran across an article by Annie Baxter, Minnesota Public Radio, written June 25, 2006.  She stated, “It may come as a surprise that Minnesota even has vineyards, given a climate that can be fatal for wine grapes.  But a wine industry is emerging in a state that’s better known for producing corn and soybeans.”  Regardless of the current “growing pains” of the Minnesota wine industry, I believe its worth looking into.  Having been born in the state, I know Minnesota citizens will go out of their way to try any home grown product, including its wine.  

As I always say, buy your favorite wine, store it properly, serve it at the right temperature and enjoy it to the fullest. 

Author: Ronald Senn, Vice-president, Ideal Wine Coolers, May 2010

 Wine was first made in Florida 300 hundred years before California became a state.  Early Spanish and French explorers discovered native grown Muscadine grapes growing in the wild.  Around 1565, colonists started producing the Original American Wine from the native grapes largely as sacramental wine for religious purposes.  The tropical climate in Florida and the presence of many grapevine diseases made wine growing problematic for many years.  In the 1930’s, hybrid grapes suited for the Florida climate were developed by University of Florida researchers.  It was not until the 1980’s that Florida could even claim a wine growing industry of any note. 

There are fewer than 30 wineries and vineyards in the state.  These few industry leaders can be found scattered throughout the state from the Florida Panhandle to the Homestead area south of Miami.  Primarily because of the growing season differences, the grape harvests begin in May and end in September, which is much earlier than places like Pennsylvania.  Most of the wineries can be found in the “out-of-the-way” places of the state and are centered near small, delightful country communities.  Visiting these small, friendly towns could be a highlight of a wine tour trip in the state and certainly enhance the understanding of early American history. 

Muscadine wines cannot be found anywhere else in the world and are considered a Southern specialty.  The research and development of new hybrids will surely enhance the varieties of grapes grown in Florida.  Some of the key grapes grown are Stover, Blanc du Bois, Swanee, Noble, Muscadine, and Miss Blanc.  I have no doubts that development of more varieties and hybrids will ultimately serve to increase the future choices for Florida wine drinkers.  Florida is also a state that allows shipping of wines across its borders with minimal requirements.  It may be worth your time to check out the possibility if you cannot travel there. 

On June 24 and 25 this year, the Florida International Wine Challenge will hold its sixth annual competition at the Palms Hotel in Miami Beach.  The 2010 Wine Challenge is touted to be the biggest in history.  This event has given out awards to wineries and vineyards from all over the world.  This year event organizers will be offering an educational package that is sure to enhance everyone’s enjoyment of the event. 

Many people wonder why the Florida wine industry does not achieve more notoriety.  Many of the wines made there have won numerous national and international awards.  Perhaps, it is because many of us still look at Florida where the oranges are grown and where Lake Okeechobee, the Everglades and Disney World are located.  I recommend, when next in Florida, that you find one of the small town wineries or wine venders and try a bottle of homegrown wine.  Remember, as I always say find a wine you enjoy, store it properly until you use it, serve it at just the right temperature and enjoy it. 

Author: Ronald Senn, Vice-president, Ideal Wine Coolers, May 2010

The state has over 100 wineries covering over 14,000 acres.  The wine industry contributes over 2 billion dollars to the state’s economy.  Approximately 230 distinct growers produce nearly 400,000 cases of wine annually.  The Pennsylvania wine industry accounts for over 10,500 jobs.  The wine industry is relatively young, but is growing fast and gaining recognition for its quality wines.  The grape crop harvest typically starts in late August and ends in the middle of October. 

The wine industry originated in the southeast and northwest portions of the state.  Today, wineries are scattered throughout the state.  The majority of wine production is in the eastern part of the state within a polygon defined by drawing a line from Williamsport east to Scranton, then southeast to Newtown, then southwest to Eddystone, then west to Orrtanna, and then north back to Williamsport.  In August 2009, Jennifer Eckinger, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Winery Association, in an interview with Joel Berg, The Patriot News, said, “There’s actually a winery within a 45 minute drive anywhere in the state . . .” 

The primary Pennsylvania varietals that can be found includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Catawba, Cayuga, Chambourcin, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Reisling, Seyval Blanc, Vidal Blanc and Virnoles.   One of the strengths of the Pennsylvania wine industry is the diversity of the grapes grown.  Many of the wine makers have received awards and other recognitions for their quality vintages.  Most of the wine growing operations are family-owned and offer a special brand of hospitality should you opt to tour them. 

Touring Pennsylvania wineries can be fun endeavor to partake.  Plan your trip carefully before hitting the road.  If you do not like crowds and want a more one-on-one experience, tour during the week rather than the weekends.  Prepare yourself by learning as much as you can about the wineries you plan to visit by visiting their respective websites.  Do not forget to stop occasionally to “smell the roses” and experience the local cultures, museums, historical markers, restaurants, etc.  Manage your tour trip to get all the enjoyment you can and not let the trip become an onus to having fun. 

Author: Ronald Senn, Vice-president, Ideal Wine Coolers