Midnight Cellars Winery

2011-09-10T16:46:00.000-07:00

Wow...it's been over a year since we last posted...in fact exactly a year! It 's California Wine Month again! We're offering complimentary tasting and 10% off your wine purchase. Just mention " we're here for California Wine Month!"

In case you haven't visited us in awhile, we have a new look! New labels. Come check them out. New package on the outside...the same great wine on the inside. We're now pouring our 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2006 Mare Nectaris and 2006 Gemini with the new look. We also are introducing a new wine to our list. Our 2006 Estate Cuvee "Zenith" is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot, all estate fruit from our home ranch. Beverage Testing Institute has given it a score of 92 points. Come see us and check it all out! We're currently open every day from 10:00 to 5:30.

September is CA Wine Month

2010-08-30T14:02:00.000-07:00

In celebration, we are offering the following discounts during the month:

-20% discount on any wine purchase when you arrive at our tasting room via The Wine Line wine country shuttle. The Wine Line is a safe and relaxing alternative to driving from one winery to the next. Just hop on, and hop off. Check out their website at www.hoponthewineline.com .
-10% discount on any wine purchase when you show local SLO County ID.

"September marks the beginning of harvest in California and California Wine Month celebrates the state’s ideal climate for wine, beautiful wine country landscape, our talented and ingenious winemaking families, our celebrated lifestyle and cuisine; and our commitment to sustainability and the environment."

As if you needed them, here are 10 reasons to love CA wine, taken from www.pasowine.com:

1. A living national treasure, with history and entrepreneurial spirit

California wines have been around for nearly 250 years, and the industry is the fourth largest producer of wine in the world. After Prohibition, California has led a wine quality revolution by combining art, science, innovation and tradition.

2. A leader in sustainable winegrowing and winemaking practices
With its statewide Sustainable Winegrowing Program (SWP), establishing strong environmental standards and practices from ground to glass, California vintners and winegrape growers are a model for other agricultural products and other wine regions in the U.S. and the world.

3. Comprised largely of family businesses
The vast majority of California's 4,600 winegrape growers and 2,800 wineries are family-owned and operated businesses, many involving multiple generations.

4. Offers immense choice for wine drinkers, because of diverse growing regions, soils, climates, winemaking styles and people
With winegrapes grown in 46 of the state’s 58 counties, California counts 108 American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). Starting with the Spanish missionaries, to German, Swiss, French and Italian immigrants, to the modern day entrepreneurs and researchers, all have made their mark on California wines.

5. Inspired a culinary revolution
As the popularity of California wines has risen, so has the national focus on fresh seasonal cooking and dining. Many of America’s top chefs work in California’s wine country.

6. Provides careers for thousands
The California wine industry generates 820,000 jobs nationwide, with wages totaling $25.8 billion. The overall economic impact of the wine industry on the U.S. economy is $121.8 billion.

7. Creates beautiful travel destinations throughout the state
California is the most visited state in the U.S. for food and wine-related activities, with 19.7 million tourists visiting the state's wine regions each year.

8. Offers unprecedented opportunities for women
Women have played a critical role in the California wine industry’s past, and today are taking lead positions in viticulture, winemaking, sales, marketing, hospitality and distribution. In the U.S., you’re just as likely to see a female as a male sommelier.

9. Keeps land in agriculture
Although less than 1 percent of California land is planted to vineyards, California wine is the number one finished agricultural product in retail value in the U.S. Winegrapes ensure that land stays in agriculture, and preserves open space and scenic pastoral landscapes.

10. Has driven a new “wine culture” in the U.S., inspiring people in all 50 states to establish wineries
Wine consumption has risen for 14 consecutive years in the U.S., and the proliferation of wine magazines, websites, blogs and yes, even a reality television show about wine, attests to the fact that wine is becoming more a part of mainstream American culture. California’s success in wine quality, production and innovation has helped inspire winemaking ventures in all 50 U.S. states.

Text used courtesy of Wine Institute.

Some Love for the Full Moon Red

2010-08-23T13:14:00.000-07:00

We got a nice review of the 2006 Full Moon Red written up in the Arizona Republic.

Click on California Wines for an Ocean Escape to read the full article.

2010-08-21T13:42:00.000-07:00

It's time for another...

HWY 46 West
Neighborhood Block Party

Peachy Canyon Winery

1480 Bethel Rd.

Templeton, CA 93465

Saturday, September 4th

6-9 p.m.

$25 in advance, $30 at the door
Event details and tickets at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/

View Larger Map

Upcoming Events in June

2010-06-01T12:59:00.000-07:00

It's going to be a busy month!

Wine, Waves, and Beyond ~ Friday, June 4th
Come join us from 5-8 p.m. at the Cliffs Resort in Shell Beach and enjoy wine, beer and food tasting with an ocean view! Local artists will have their work on display, and live music will be played out on the restaurant patio. Tickets are $30 pre-sale, or $35 at the door. All proceeds benefit the Association of Amputee Surfers.

www.winewavesandbeyond.com

Pinot and Paella ~ Sunday, June 6th
Join Midnight Cellars and the Pinot Noir producers of Paso Robles for an afternoon in celebration of this distinct varietal! Several chefs from Central Coast restaurants will be cooking up delicious paellas to pair with all that wine! It takes place on Sunday, June 6th from 2-5 p.m. at the Templeton Community Park.
For more information call 805-239-2565 or visit www.pinotandpaella.com

10th St. Basque Cafe Pouring ~ Thursday, June 24th
You won't want to miss this fun tapas and wine extravaganza! Midnight Cellars will be the featured winery for the Thursday night "Winemaker Pouring" at the 10th St. Basque Cafe in San Miguel (just 5 mins north of Paso). This is one of the most unique restaurants on the Central Coast...please join us! 6-8 p.m.
www.tenthstreetbasquecafe.com

Atascadero Wine Festival ~ Saturday, June 26th
Sip wine from 80 SLO County wineries, pair local food with local wine, and enjoy juried artwork and live music! It all takes place at the Atascadero Lake Park from 4-7 p.m. on Saturday, June 26th. Tickets are only $40. Free shuttle from the Sunken Gardens in downtown Atascadero. Proceeds benefit local charities and the Charles Paddock Zoo in Atascadero. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.atascaderowinefestival.com

Spring

2010-05-28T11:32:00.000-07:00

You know it's spring when the baby birds start chirping! We have families of finches that come back every spring to build nests and lay eggs. This year there are 3 nests outside around the tasting room, the most visible one nestled in a wreath hanging on the wall outside the front door. I managed a few shots of the little guys...

Rich

2010-05-10T11:01:00.000-07:00

This is what happens on sales trips with Rich.

(Hickey's Liquors in Milford, Massachusetts)

Another Festival? Indeed.

2010-05-09T16:11:00.000-07:00

The 28th Annual Paso Robles Wine Festival is coming up the weekend of May 21-23. Only 2 weeks away!

Come see us in the tasting room during the weekend for wine, food and fun times!

Friday-Sunday: We will be open all weekend from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m, serving wine and appetizers.

Saturday: You won't want to miss our first ever "Midnight Idol" karaoke spectacular. We're trying to book Paula Abdul, but haven't heard back yet. Come sing your heart out, but beware...our stellar winemaker thinks he's the bomb. BBQ will be fired up as well. 12-4 p.m. in the backyard behind the tasting room.

Sunday: Mary Jane's famous meatballs will make a great accompaniment for the music of Matt Cross on guitar! A nice way to end the weekend.

Hope to see you there. :)

Never Cook Bacon Naked

2010-05-07T17:07:00.000-07:00

Good advice from Chef Dallas of the 10th Street Basque Cafe in San Miguel!

I sat down and browsed through Never Cook Bacon Naked during my lunch break today. Verdict: This is the best cookbook I have come across in a long time! It begins with several pages of tips, hints, and tricks for working in the kitchen...including a section of definitions for terms such as "emulsify", "chiffonade", and "clarified butter". The recipe list includes tapas-style dishes, salads, sauces, breads, apps, entrees, and desserts. These are easy to prepare and approachable recipes. Definitely not intimidating! It got me excited about planning dinner for tonight.

If you have never been to the 10th Street Basque Cafe, GO! It will be the perfect end to a day of wine tasting in Paso Robles. Visit their website at http://www.tenthstreetbasquecafe.com/ . Also, you can purchase the cookbook in our tasting room, or on the website.

Here is one of my favorite recipes from the Tapas Section:
Basque Potatoes (Pair with Midnight Cellars 2008 Estate Chardonnay or 2006 Pinot Noir)
4 medium unpeeled Russet potatoes
1 large peeled yam
1 1/2 Tbs paprika
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp coarse ground black pepper
2 Tbs cooking oil
Pinch of red pepper flakes
1 tsp salt
1/2 cup mayonaise
4 tsp chopped garlic

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Wash Russet potatoes and cut into bite sized pieces. Peel and cut yam into bite sized pieces. Place yams and potatoes into baking dish and add the oil.
Mix together the paprika, onion and garlic powder, coarse ground black pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt into spice mixture. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the yams and potatoes, and then fold everything together making sure all the potatoes and yams are well coated. Cover and bake in the oven at 350 degrees for 1 3/4 hours.
After you remove potatoes and yams from the oven, add mayonaise and chopped garlic and fold everything together well. Transfer potatoes to serving platter and serve as a Tapas. Serve hot!

Wine Terminology

2010-04-16T11:39:00.000-07:00

The top ten most commonly used wine terms, according to eBacchus.com:

Aroma

The intensity and character of the aroma can be assessed with nearly any descriptive adjective. (eg: from "appley" to "raisiny", "fresh" to "tired", etc.). Usually refers to the particular smell of the grape variety. The word "bouquet" is usually restricted to describing the aroma of a cellar-aged bottled wine.

Balance
Denotes harmonious balance of wine elements - (ie: no individual part is dominant). Acid balances the sweetness; fruit balances against oak and tannin content; alcohol is balanced against acidity and flavor. Wine not in balance may be acidic, cloying, flat or harsh etc.

Crisp (Whites)
Wine has pronounced but pleasing tartness, acidity. Fresh, young and eager, begs to be drunk. Generally used to describe white wines only, especially those of Muscadet de Sevres et Maine from the Loire region of France.

Finish
Term used to describe the taste left in the mouth after swallowing the wine. Both character and length of the aftertaste are part of the total evaluation. May be harsh, hot, soft and lingering, short, smooth, tannic, or nonexistent.

Fruity
Used for any quality that refers to the body and richness of a wine made from good, ripe grapes. A fruity wine has an "appley", "berrylike" or herbaceous character. "Fruitiness" usually implies a little extra sweetness.

Smooth / Soft (Velvety)
Generally has low acid/tannin content. Also describes wines with low alcohol content. Consequently has little impact on the palate.

Spicy
Almost a synonym for "peppery". Implies a softer, more rounded flavor nuance however.

Structure
The flavor plan, so to speak. Suggests completeness of the wine, all parts there. Term needs a modifier in order to mean something - (eg: "brawny" etc).

Tannins (Reds)
A naturally occurring substance in grapeskins, seeds and stems. Is primarily responsible for the basic "bitter" component in wines. Acts as a natural preservative, helping the development and, in the right proportion, balance of the wine. It is considered a fault when present in excess.

Taste
Refers to the basic sensations detectable by the human tongue. Current scientific opinion defines these as "sweet", "salty", "sour", "bitter" and "MSG" (Monosodium Glutamate) flavors all registered by the tongue taste receptors. The traditional view of the tongue having four distinct surface zones to register those tastes has recently been revised by a report of new research discoveries.

Something New

2010-04-12T15:42:00.000-07:00

We have a couple newly released wines that are in need of an introduction...

2006 Petit Verdot "Synnove" - Back and better than ever! Petit Verdot is a Bordeaux varietal, usually used as a blending grape for its deep color and tannin structure. It is also pretty phenomenal as a 100% single varietal wine. The color is dark garnet with a violet hue, and the aroma is full of ripe dark fruit and earthy spiciness. Flavors of currant and plum are highlighted by well-balanced oak, tannin and acidity. This wine is unfined and unfiltered. Only 225 cases produced. $22/bottle.

Food Pairing: Beef Brisket Pot Roast

Ingredients

One 4-pound beef brisket with a 1/3 inch layer of fat
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
5 garlic gloves, smashed
2 medium onions, coarsely chopped
2 medium carrots, coarsely chopped
1 celery rib, coarsely chopped
3 bay leaves
2 rosemary sprigs
2 small dried red chilies
2 cups dry red wine
One 14-ounce can whole plum tomatoes, drained
3 cups chicken broth

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Season the brisket with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the oil. Add the brisket, fat side down, and cook over moderately high heat until richly browned, about 5 minutes. Turn and brown on the other side, about 5 minutes longer. Transfer the brisket, fat side up, to a roasting pan.

Add the garlic, onions, carrots and celery to the skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 10 minutes. Add the bay leaves, rosemary and chilies and cook, stirring for 2 minutes. Add the wine and boil over high heat until reduced by half, about 6 minutes. Add the tomatoes and simmer over low heat for 15 minutes. Pour the mixture over and around the brisket.

Add the broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer over high heat. Pour the broth around the brisket. Cover the roasting pan with foil, transfer to the oven and braise until the brisket is very tender, about 3 hours. Transfer the brisket to a platter and cover with foil.

Strain the contents of the roasting pan through a coarse strainer and set over a large saucepan, pushing the vegetables through as much as possible. Boil the sauce over high heat until reduced to 3 1/4 cups, about 20 minutes.; season with salt and pepper. Carve the brisket into small slices. Pour some of the sauce over the brisket to keep it moist and serve, passing the rest of the sauce around the table.

Serve with buttered egg noodles.

2006 Capriccio Italien - Welcome back our luscious Super Tuscan blend. It is named after Tchaikovsky's composition of the same name, written over 125 years ago (Listen here). Our first, and only previous vintage of this wine was in 2001. It is now back by popular demand, and better than ever.

Known as a "Super Tuscan", this wine is an enticing blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The aroma is pretty, with essence of rose petals and minerals leading into a tart cherry and toasted vanilla mouth feel. We recommend decanting for a few hours. Only 122 cases produced. $34/bottle.

Food Pairing: Balsamic and Rosemary-Marinated
Florentine Steak

Ingredients

1 cup balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup plus 2 tbs. extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup finely chopped rosemary
One 3-pound porterhouse steak, about 4 inches thick
2 tsp. kosher salt
2 tsp. ground peppercorns

Directions

In a sturdy resealable plastic bag, combine the vinegar with 1/2 cup of the olive oil and the rosemary. Add the steak, seal the bag and refrigerate overnight, turning the bag several times.

Preheat oven to 425 degrees and bring the steak to room temp. Heat a grill pan. Remove the steak from the marinade and season with salt and pepper. Rub the side with the remaining 2 tbs. of olive oil. Grill over moderately high heat until nicely charred on the top and bottom, about 5 minutes per side.

Transfer the steak to a rimmed baking sheet and roast for about 30 minutes, until a thermometer registers 125 degrees.

Transfer the steak to a carving board and let rest for 10 minutes before carving.

It's been awhile...

2010-03-28T14:19:00.000-07:00

I know, it's been about 5 months since the last post. I guess we've all been pretty busy...or taking month-long vacations to Belize...Either way, our apologies on the lack of posting.

Last weekend marked the 18th annual Zinfandel Festival here in Paso Robles. Three days of constant wine tasting (aka drinking), eating, and celebrating the popularity and history of Zinfandel in this growing region.

Some pictures...

NEW Pictures from Harvest Festival weekend!

2009-10-30T12:20:00.000-07:00

Sid seriously working some magic.

A busy Saturday afternoon.

Friendly tasting room folk.

Dinner out on the Crush Pad.

Funk:30 provided the Blues...

The BBQ Crew. Thanks guys.

Bust a move.

Karen and Michele...working hard or hardly working??

Wine, Tequila and Ribs...Oh My.

Harvest

2009-10-13T14:47:00.000-07:00

Two month stint during Autumn when we work non-stop, drink kegs of cheap beer, and the men don't shave. The one and only Harvest.

Coming up this weekend:

Ribs and Blues at Midnight

An event you don’t want to miss. The 9^th Annual Ribs and Blues Night at Midnight Cellars, featuring Carson’s Ribs flown in from Chicago with some great side dishes, along with Midnight’s “stellar” wine and the sound of Funk 30. Join us this Saturday, October 17th from 6-9 p.m.(or until Rich passes out...).

Gemini Love

2009-08-24T10:53:00.000-07:00

Check out this awesome review of our 2005 Gemini Reserve Red, found on the blog titled "Where's My DAMN Answer?"

"Midnight Cellars http://www.midnightcellars.com/ in Paso Robles strikes again!! We of course had to taste all the wines while there but this was one that really stuck with us. Not for how it tasted a few weeks ago but how it will taste in 6 months. I was chatting with Rich Hartenberger Winemaker extraordinaire and he told me that this will be the best wine ever made in 6 months!! While I am not sure because I cannot fast forward - BUT what I can tell you is that I have tasted a bottle of this from a wine that was produced a couple years ago and it has aged so well. The wine from years past was so smooth and rich with just the right amount of balance of flavors. This wine is just a kick ass red. Just great. That bottle was far better now than it was a year ago. This high alcohol wine is so Yummy (my technical wine term) it is a great blend of Zin and Syrah and you can really taste blackberries and blueberries as well as hints of pepper, spice and nutmeg. All and all this wine is a winner - Better be after all I walked out of there with a case!!"

Award Winners

2009-08-23T16:45:00.000-07:00

Every summer, we participate in the Commercial Wine Competitions at the Mid State and Orange County Fairs. This involves shipping numerous bottles of yummy vino to a panel of experienced and discriminating judges. Judges swirl, sip and spit thousands of wines! Following are our top two winners for this year:

Orange County Fair: The 2005 Petite Sirah "Eclipse" wins a 4 Star Gold! Out of 3,089 total wines judged, only 26 were recognized as "4-star gold" winners. This is a full-bodied wine with dense fruit flavors and quite a perfect balance of tannin and acidity. Available in the tasting room for only $25/bottle.

Mid-State Fair: The 2005 Petit Verdot "Synnove" won a Gold medal! Petit Verdot is one of the lesser known red Bordeaux varietals typically found in blends. It is used to add tannin, color and an earthy characteristic to other wines. We bottled this interesting varietal all on its own. Come in and taste! It retails for $28/bottle.

September Block Party!

2009-08-20T12:49:00.000-07:00

September 5th marks the date of yet another 46 West Block Party! This one takes place at Donati Family Vineyard, which is located on the corner of 46 West and Vineyard Dr. From 5:30-7:30 p.m. you can enjoy spectacular wines from all the 46 West Wineries, Santa Maria style BBQ and live blues music from local band, Funk 30. Best part is, this event is only $20 and includes your special logo glass. Come join us and celebrate the beginning of harvest season! Tickets are available at http://septemberblockparty.eventbrite.com/

Cookoff Debauchery

2009-08-14T14:24:00.000-07:00

Foodies and winos ran wild at the Winemakers' Cookoff, which took place last Saturday evening. Thirty wineries furiously prepared unique and delicious entrees for hundreds of hungry guests, poured bottles upon bottles of award winning wines and bribed the night away in hopes of collecting enough ballots to win 1st place.

Obviously my personal favorite was our very own filet wrapped bacon, but then again I have a much more sophisticated palate than most...or so I like to think ;) Seriously though, if this doesn't get your taste buds going, I don't know what will:

RECIPE:

Filet Wrapped Bacon

~in a shallot and port wine reduction sauce~

Served with a lemony corn, celery, bacon and almond relish

DESSERT:

Port infused triple chocolate brownies topped with a bacon dusting

...because everyone loves bacon, right?

Congratulations to Martin & Weyrich & York Mountain for winning 1st place Judges Choice Award with their Carne Asada Tacos topped w/ Kike's famous roasted Tomatillo Salsa!

And congratulations to Sylvester Winery for winning 1st place People's Choice Award with their Lamb and Beef Shish Kabobs in Cabernet Sauvignon reduction sauce.

Thirdly, I must note that Mondo Cellars created the most delicious lamb burger I've ever had in my life! Australian lamb topped with caramelized sweet onions, sun dried tomato and feta aioli, purple cabbage and mint slaw on a sweet Hawaiian bun.

Thanks to everyone who participated and the Rotary for another great year! We will be back.

11th Annual Winemaker's Cookoff

2009-08-05T11:55:00.000-07:00

WINEMAKERS' COOKOFF

FOOD, WINE, LIVE MUSIC AND FUN!

This is definitely the most exciting local event in Paso Robles wine country! Join Midnight Cellars and about 30 other wineries as we grill up some gourmet grub and pour outstanding wines on August 8th from 6-9 p.m. at the River Oaks Hot Springs in Paso Robles. Blankets and beach chairs are encouraged, as this is a casual event. Tickets are $75 per person and available for purchase at http://www.winemakerscookoff.com/ .

P.S. Did I mention that we won 1st Place People's Choice and 2nd Place Judges Choice Awards last year? This year we aim for top in both categories with our filet wrapped bacon. Sound interesting? We thought so... See you there!

Neighborhood Block Party

2009-07-05T16:14:00.000-07:00

Join Midnight and the rest of the 46 West wineries for our July Block Party next Saturday, July 11th. It's a casual gathering featuring a few excellent wines from each winery, Santa Maria-style BBQ (compliments of our very own Rich Hartenberger) and live music by local band Stage Fright! This event will take place at Doce Robles Winery from 6-8 p.m. and the cost is only $20 per person, including your 46 West logo glass! What a deal...Tickets are available at http://www.eventbrite.com/event/269757853 or at the door. Hope to see you there!

New Releases

2009-06-05T16:12:00.000-07:00

We are happy to announce the official release of some new wines! They are now being poured in the tasting room and are also available for purchase on our website at http://www.midnightcellars.com/ .

2006 Full Moon Red

The new vintage of your favorite "everyday red!"

50% Syrah, 40% Zinfandel, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon
Still only $14/bottle.

2006 Sangiovese - "Starlight"

A real treat for those who love Italian Brunellos or Chianti Classicos!

Only 92 cases produced, and we will sell out fast.

$23.00 each

2006 Syrah - "Nocturne"

Flavors of black cherry, plum and strawberry accented by an intriguing earthy spiciness.

A varietally-correct crowd pleaser!

$24.00 each

2005 Petite Sirah - "Eclipse"

Our second offering of Petite Sirah. A real mouthful.
$25.00 each

Painless Paella

2009-06-02T11:58:00.000-07:00

Try this delicious Paella reicpe at home tonight, compliments of Andre Averseng of Dining with Andre. Pair with Midnight Cellars Pinot Noir and invite your friends over for a feast!

3 oz. olive oil
10 chicken legs
6 oz. chorizo, sliced
3 oz. garlic (or more if you wish!)
4 cups chicken stock
2 cups short grain white rice, such as Italian Arborio
1 medium Spanish onion
2 red bell peppers, diced
2 green bell peppers, diced
1 tsp. saffron threads
salt and white pepper to taste

Heat olive oil, over medium-high heat, in a large and heavy oven-proof pot with cover.

Sprinkle chicken pieces with salt and pepper, sautee in olive oil until lightly browned, about 7 minutes on each side. Remove from pan.

Add onion and peppers, cook until they're transparent and soft.

Add the chorizo, garlic and saffron. Stir. Add the rice, sautee until opaque, about 5 minutes.

Add the chicken legs and stock. Bring to a low boil. Cover and cook until liquid is absorbed.

*If you wish to add seafood, clean and prepare mussels, shirmp, squid and clams...add in the final 5-10 minutes. The clams and mussels should open, the shrimp should be pink and the squid tender.

*Paella can be baked in an oven at 450 degrees if the cook doesn't wish to prepare it on stovetop.

For presentation, top with cooked asparagus spears and flat leaft parsley.

Pinot and Paella this Sunday!

2009-05-29T12:44:00.000-07:00

Looking for something to do this weekend? The 6th Annual Pinot & Paella Festival is happening this Sunday, May 31st from 2-5pm at the Templeton Community Park.

Join us as 15 of the area's best Paella chefs cook up some unique recipes to pair with Pinot Noir from 20 different Paso Robles wineries. Live music by "world-guitar-fusion" trio, Incendio.

Tickets are still on sale at http://www.pinotandpaella.com/ for $65. Price inlcudes commemorative Reidel glass and plate. Proceeds benefit several Children's Arts, Theater and Music programs in San Luis Obispo County. For more information call Windward Winery at (805)239-2565.

Finally some new pictures!

2009-05-26T22:12:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Bonnie's camera we have some new photos from Wine Festival weekend. It was quite the busy 3 days, with a taco bar feast and amazing live music on Friday, appetizers all day Saturday and the Bootleggers playing in the backyard on Sunday! We were happy to announce the release of a few new wines as well, including the 2005 Petite Sirah, 2006 Sangiovese, 2006 Syrah and the new 2006 vintage of Full Moon Red.

Paso Robles 27th Annual Wine Festival

2009-04-19T12:35:00.000-07:00

Come visit Midnight Cellars during Wine Festival Weekend - May 15-17, 2009. Here is a list of what we'll be doing all weekend:

FRIDAY-SUNDAY: We'll be open all weekend, serving our stellar wine along with appetizers! Come by and taste some of our new releases, including our Sangiovese, Syrah, and Petite Sirah!

FRIDAY: Join us for a casual Midnight soiree - nothing fancy - just some food, wonderful wine, conversation and lovely live chamber music. Begins at 6 p.m. Reservations are required. $35/pp; $25/Club Members.

SUNDAY: Mary Jane's famous meatballs will make a great accompaniment for the rockin' music of Tim Jackson and the Bootleggers! Join the band from 1-5 p.m. in Midnight's backyard. Food, wine and fun will be had by all! It's required!

Local Wine Trivia

2009-04-06T16:30:00.000-07:00

While sitting in the tasting room and surfing web, I came across some fun and interesting trivia questions on the Paso Style Living website (http://www.pasostyleliving.com/). I encourage you to check it out and test your knowledge! Below are some questions from the website.

1. Zinfandel is often considered California's grape, but it's origin is Croatia. Zinfandel has a sister grape which was also traced back to Croatia. What is Zinfandel's sister grape?

a)Tempranillo
b)Primitivo
c)Trebbiano
d)None of the Above

Answer: Primitivo. Primitivo and Zinfandel are very closely related and can both be traced back to a common ancestral grape variety from Croatia. Actually Primitivo has many of the same Zinfandel characteristics.

2. The Paso hillsides are so beautiful this time of year. It also reminds us of years past before Paso was known for it's great wine it was considered the _________ City?

a)Pistachio
b)Walnut
c)Almond
d)None of the Above

Answer: Almond. California is the largest producer of almonds in the world, and 75 years ago Paso Robles had the highest concentration of almond trees anywhere in the world. Almond production is still an important product, but much of the production has moved to the Central Valley. Both Walnuts and Pistachios are grown locally, but if you think historically Pistachios are relatively new to the US. Iran is the largest producer of Pistachios in the world. Pistachio is a Farsi (Persian) word.

3. Most of you have seen the movie "Sideways". In the movie, Miles coveted a special bottle of Wine. What was the Winery and varietal of that special wine?

a)Sea Smoke - Pinot Noir
b)Silver Oak - Cabernet Sauvignon
c)Cheval Blanc - Merlot
d)None of the Above

Answer: Cheval Blanc - Merlot. Yes, the very special bottle of wine while Miles cherished so much was a Cheval Blanc which blends two grape varieties to form their great wines, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Merlot is normally the predominate grape in this wine, but varies by vintage.

4. Paso Robles is quickly becoming well known as an excellent Rhone wine producing area. Tablas Creek is a partnership with the famous French Rhone producer Chateau de Beaucastel. To Americans, Syrah is probably the most common Rhone wine. In the Northern Rhone Valley of France Syrah is the predominate red wine grape and Viognier is the predominate white wine grape. What is the most common blending grape for Syrah in the Northern Rhone Valley

a)Grenache
b)Mourvedre
c)Viognier
d)None of the Above

Answer: c, d. The primary blending grape with Syrah in the Northern Rhone Valley is the white wine grape Viognier. Some regions of Northern Rhone do not allow any blending so that would make d an acceptable answer. Grenache and Mouvedre are allowed in Southern Rhone wines.

5. What famous Wild West Outlaw had roots in Paso Robles?

a)Frank & Jesse James
b)Billy the Kid
c)Doc Holiday
d)None of the Above

Answer: Frank and Jesse James. Frank and Jesse's Uncle Dury James lived on a ranch on the Paso Westside. Dury's cabin is still there today about 1/2 mile east of Norman Winery. Frank and Jesse visited their uncle often. They would hangout frequently at the Old Paso Inn.

Thanks for a great Zin Festival

2009-03-27T21:52:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who visited us during Zinfandel Festival last weekend. It was a long but fun and successful weekend for us, and we hope you had a great time as well! Here are some pictures from the wine club get-together on Friday:

Karen, Rich, and Sid hiding.

Cheers.

Crazy friends.

The Lineup

Mary Jane Hartenberger (in red) and friends.

Nicole, Rich, and Sid drinking on the job.

Karen & Zach washing glasses.

To all you Zin Snobs!

2009-02-28T13:50:00.000-08:00

It's almost upon us folks...The 17th annual Paso Robles Zinfandel Festival is coming up fast! The weekend of March 20-22 is going to be a wild and crazy 3-day celebration of the grape varietal so popular in California.

Nearly 100 local wineries will be hosting events throughout the weekend. Think BBQ's, live music, barrel tastings, great discounts, and NEW RELEASES! Visit the event page at www.pasozinfest.com for a listing of all activities.

At Midnight Cellars: We invite all wine lovers to join us in our tasting room Friday thru Sunday from 10am-5:30 pm to celebrate our award-winning Zins, tasty homemade appetizers, and good music. And who knows, maybe we'll be releasing a new '07 Zin........With winemaker Rich running around, you can bet it will be quite the party!

That's not all though. Some awesome events will be held at the Paso Robles Event Center:

RESERVE - $120 Friday 4-6 p.m. (Includes RESERVE Event, Wine Country Auction & Grand Tasting).
Wine Country Auction - $85 Saturday 4:30-7 p.m. (Includes Wine Country Auction & Grand Tasting).
Zinfandel Grand Tasting - $60 Saturday 7-9:30 p.m. We will be pouring at the Grand Tasting, so make sure you stop by!

Levi Takes It!

2009-02-28T10:51:00.000-08:00

Congrats Levi!!! Okay, I know the reaction is a bit delayed considering the race finished last week....but just in case you're not a follower of what's happening in the cycling world, Levi Leipheimer of team Astana took the overall win for the 3rd straight year! You can check out the final standings on the official Amgen Tour webpage at :http://www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/ .

The end of Stage 5, which happened to be right here in Paso Robles, was packed with cheering winos and cycling fanatics. It was quite the scene as Mark Cavendish of team Columia-Highland crossed the finish line to take first place in the stage.

Levi, however, with a 34 second overall lead, hung on to that yellow leader's jersey!

Leaders sprinting to the finish in Stage 5.

Amgen Tour of California is coming to town

2009-02-17T12:56:00.000-08:00

The Amgen Tour of California will be rolling into Paso Robles this Thursday, February 19th. Lance Armstrong, Levi Leipheimer, and Floyd Landis are among the top cyclists racing this year.

The Amgen Tour cycling event is currently the largest in America, similar in style to the Tour de France. Top professional cyclists began the 750-mile race on February 14th in Sacramento, and will be finishing on February 22nd in Escondido.

The race is divided up into 8 different stages, with Stage 5 being a 130-mile, mostly flat but very windy ride from Visalia to Paso Robles. Riders will pass by ranches, vineyards, and farms as they race across the valley floor. This is the longest stage of the race, including two sprints along the way in Chalome and Shandon. The final 30 miles along Creston Road and into downtown Paso is sure to be a wild and crazy dash to the finish! The finish line is at Spring & 11th St., and estimated time of arrival is between 3:00 and 4:22 pm.

Stillwaters Vineyard, located on Creston Road, is hosting a Tailgate Watch Party in their vineyard. Lunch and wine tasting begin at 1 pm, and then head down to the road to watch the riders pass by! Cost is $20 per person.

Get Cookin'

2009-02-14T12:07:00.000-08:00

Some delicious and pretty simple recipes for those of us who like to stay home and cook:

Rosemary-Mustard Crusted Rack of Lamb
Pairs well with Midnight Cellars Estate Zinfandel

1 Rack of Lamb
2 Tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped
2 Tbsp. Olive Oil
2 Cloves Garlic, crushed and finely chopped
1/4 Cup Mustard (dijon or whole grain)
Salt and Pepper to taste

1. Pre-Heat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Heat half the olive oil in large pan (large enough to hold the lamb rack).
3. Rub lamb with remaining olive oil, salt and pepper.
4. Sear lamb on high heat on all sides until brown, about 3-5 minutes total. Remove lamb from the pan and allow to rest on paper towel lined plate for about 10 minutes.
5. Combine mustard, garlic, and rosemary in small bowl.
6. Rub the mustard blend on the lamb, cover lamb bones with foil and place in the refrigerator for 15 minutes, so mustard has time to set.
7. Place lamb on a baking sheet and put in oven. Bake 20 minutes for medium-rare chops.
8. Remove lamb from oven and let rest for 8-10 minutes.
9. Cut the lamb into chops and serve with your favorite veggies and a glass of Midnight Cellars Estate Zinfandel!

And for Dessert...

Poached Pears with Chocolate
Pairs well with Midnight Cellars Petit Verdot or Malbec

2 Cups Zinfandel
2 Bosc Pears, cored and cut in half lengthwise
3 Vanilla beans
1/2 Cup brown sugar
3 whole Cloves
Dark Chocolate of your choice (however much you want!)
Vanilla Bean ice cream (optional)

1. Place all ingredients, except ice cream, in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over low-medium heat.
2. Simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes or until pears are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Remove pairs with a large spoon and place on plate. Drizzle with zin/chocolate sauce. Add a scoop or two of vanilla bean ice cream if you've got a mean sweet tooth. Enjoy!

Vino and Chocolate for Valentine's Day

2009-02-09T16:02:00.000-08:00

Red wine and dark chocolate. A tasty little combination, but only when paired well. As a general rule, chocolates higher in cocoa percentages are going to pair better with strong, more robust red wines. If you've been into the tasting room lately you have probably tried some of our Wine Lover's Chocolate-72% cocoa paired with our two spicy Zinfandels. For our heavier Estate Merlot and full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon keep the cocoa level around 55-58%. In my humble opinion, our lighter Pinot Noir might be better off with some velvety milk chocolate. Hey, why not treat yourself and your loved one to a little of both this Valentines Day weekend?

Most of us have heard about the heart-healthy properties of red wine and dark chocolate, but do we really understand the science behind it? Red wine contains important polyphenols such as flavonoids and resveratrol. Flavonoids also occur naturally in cocoa and contribute to the bitter taste of very dark chocolate. Various researches have found that these polyphenols contain antioxidants that may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Keep it in moderation along with a healthy, active lifestyle and you'll be ready to go!

Welcome to Midnight Cellars Blog!

2009-02-06T13:19:00.000-08:00

We have finally decided to jump on the blogging bandwagon. What better way to keep in touch with all you loyal Midnight drinkers out there?! We'll keep you updated and entertained with frequent posts about what's happening in our vineyard and at the winery. Also check out some great recipes, pictures, and wine-related news.

Hard at work.

Winemaker Rich Hartenberger.