Casey Flat Ranch Winery Appoints Epic Wines & Spirits as California Distributor California’s fastest growing distributor of alcoholic beverages will partner with the Capay Valley’s leading producer of Bordeaux and Rhone style wines.     San Francisco, CA — Casey Flat Ranch recently announced their partnership with Epic Wines & Spirits, California’s fastest growing wholesaler of wine, beer and spirits.   Casey Flat Ranch is the Capay Valley’s leading producer of award-winning Rhone and Bordeaux-style blends, with a stunningly rugged location and a rich homesteading heritage that dates back to California’s Gold Rush era.   Epic Wines & Spirits is a natural partner to represent the Casey Flat Ranch brand statewide. Acclaimed producer and distributor Bill Foley recently acquired the wholesaler, and his leadership brings an unparalleled level of expertise in building emerging brands like Casey Flat Ranch. With Epic’s impressive portfolio of cutting edge wineries from both established and up and coming regions around the globe, Casey Flat Ranch is right at home among some of the industry’s most buzzed-about brands.    Brenda Bullington, Casey Flat Ranch VP of Sales said, “We are so excited to work along side of the fabulous team of Epic Wines to build Casey Flat Ranch. They absolutely share the same passion we have for the business. With the highest percentage of CSW-certified Sales Representatives, they are not the biggest wholesaler in CA but pride themselves as the best. We are going to have fun selling Casey Flat Ranch and Open Range Wines together.”   Kelly Connors, Epic’s Vice President of Supplier Relations, said, “We at Epic Wines & Spirits are very excited to start a long term partnership with Casey Flat Ranch and to represent wines for the up and coming Capay Valley AVA.”   About Epic Wines & Spirits   Epic Wines & Spirits was founded in 1995 and has been owned by Bill Foley since August 2013. The company is guided by a simple prevailing goal: recognize products that will be cutting-edge tomorrow while paying attention to the needs of our customers and their clients today. The brands of Epic Wines & Spirits are unique, and important to both knowledgeable and emerging wine, beer and spirits consumers. Each product featured in the Epic portfolio has been specifically selected for its quality, innovation and respect for tradition.   The people of Epic Wines & Spirits are industry professionals who have extensive backgrounds in premium wine, beer and spirits sales and distribution. Their knowledge of and passion for our products, combined with a commitment to customer service, have enabled Epic to become California’s fastest growing alcoholic beverage distributor, building lasting relationships with a sophisticated and demanding customer base.   About Casey Flat Ranch Winery Casey Flat Ranch is based in the Capay Valley AVA, in the Vaca Mountains bordering the eastern side of Napa County (22 miles due east of St. Helena). The working ranch is defined by its award-winning Rhone and Bordeaux-style blends, stunningly rugged location, the purebred Longhorn cattle that roam the estate and a rich homesteading heritage that dates back to California’s Gold Rush era. Casey Flat Ranch's two brands, the Estate wines and Open Range, serve as the perfect way to ignite the frontier spirit in any wine lover.   For press inquiries and high-resolution images, please contact Alexandra Fondren at Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415.701.9463.     # # #  

Oregon’s SakéOne Hosts Annual Kura Blessing Forest Grove, Oregon – SakéOne, America’s premium saké producer and importer, held its eighteenth annual Kura Blessing Ceremony in anticipation of World Saké Day October 1st, which marks the beginning of the traditional Japanese saké brewing season. The ceremony, which is rooted in ancient Shinto tradition, is intended to cleanse the brewery and ward off mischievous spirits.   The Reverend Koichi Barrish, of the Tsubaki Grand Shrine in Granite Falls, Washington, the first American to ever earn the distinction of being named a Shinto priest, presided over the ceremony, as has been the tradition for 18 years. His reverence for the tradition of paying respects to the saké kami (nature spirit) was evident in the precision of his movements and in his close adherence to the longstanding rituals of the kura blessing in the Shinto tradition. Performing the ceremony in both English and Japanese, the Reverend sprinkled rice grains and cleansed the four corners of SakéOne’s Forest Grove facility with a ritual offering of saké intended to satisfy the evil spirits that might try to occupy the kura. He then scattered salt and handfuls of sand from a sacred Japanese mountain and evicted the pacified spirits with a wave of his harai-gushi (a tasseled wand used in traditional Shinto ceremonies).   As an extra precaution, the ceremony concluded with a gregarious performance by the Eugene Taiko drummers, which inevitably succeeded in frightening away any spirits stubborn enough to resist the Reverend’s enchantments.   Following the service, attendees were invited to taste some of SakéOne’s specially priced, world-class, imported offerings in honor of Saké Day. The tastings, designed to showcase the brewing styles associated with different regions of Japan, were served alongside a feast of Japanese food prepared by Wassabi, a pan-Asian restaurant located in nearby Hillsboro.   To see a video of the kura blessing ceremony from a previous year, please click here.   About SakéOne SakéOne is America’s first craft saké producer and compliments its own fine products with a growing portfolio of fine Japanese saké imports. Its Oregon craft saké brands Momokawa, Moonstone, and g Saké are joined by import brands Murai Family, Yoshinogawa, Kasumi Tsuru, SakéMoto, Hakutsuru, KIBO and Tombo. A leader committed to saké education at the wholesale, retail and consumer levels, SakéOne is focused on expanding the enjoyment of premium saké in the United States. For more information, visit SakéOne’s website at sakeone.com.    For media information and interviews, please contact Kimberly Charles of Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415|701-9463.       # # #

              “World Wine Guys” Announce Latest Book Launch Celebration of Wines of California: The Comprehensive Guide by Mike DeSimone & Jeff Jenssen to feature The Wines of Lodi, CA at Ordinaire Wine Bar   San Francisco, CA - Award-winning journalists and best-selling authors Mike DeSimone and Jeff Jenssen will be launching their new book, Wines of California, at Ordinaire Wine Bar in Oakland on Saturday, September 20th.   Join the celebration along with vintners from LoCA - The Wines of Lodi, CA - a region featured in the book for both its historic importance to California wine as well as its burgeoning reputation for highly-sought, boutique labels and winegrape varieties that adhere to the highest standards in both quality and sustainability. About Wines of California   (Sterling Epicure, release date September 2, 2014)   Training their eyes beyond Napa and Sonoma, "World Wine Guys" Mike DeSimone and Jeff Jenssen have created the most up-to-date and comprehensive coverage of the state's myriad wine-growing regions. This 600-page tome offers an unparalleled look into California winemaking, history, and geography from Mendocino to Ramona Valley and all points in between, including detailed listings of outstanding producers.   Enjoy winery profiles with tasting notes, winemaker interviews, and recipes, with photos and wine labels throughout. Among 29 winemaker profiles are interviews with Peter Mondavi Sr, Heidi Barrett, and Jean-Charles Boisset. Dishes with wine pairings include recipes from wine country notables such as Michael Chiarello, Tyler Florence, and Joel Gott. The foreword is by Michael Mondavi and the preface is by Kevin Zraly—two of the most important names in wine today.   Advance praise for Wines of California includes quotes from Kathie Lee Gifford, Jennifer Simonetti Bryan MW, and others. Here’s what Virginie Boone, California Editor, Wine Enthusiast Magazine had to say: "In answer to those who would question California's wine soul, Wines of California joyously explores and celebrates the state's wide-reaching and diverse range of world-class wines and the people who make them. It'll inspire you to hit the California highway, corkscrew and Riedel’s in hand."   About the authors Aside from being the entertaining and lifestyle editors at Wine Enthusiast, DeSimone and Jenssen are award-winning journalists, authors and the proud recipients of the
prestigious Golden Pen Award for food, wine, and travel journalism.   The pair received the title "World Wine Guys" after visiting most of the world’s wine regions throughout six continents.   Their experiences prompted them to write the best-selling book Wines from the Southern Hemisphere: The Complete Guide, which won the Gourmand International Award for Best Wine Book 2012 in the US.   Along with regularly hosted wine tastings and educational seminars around the world, they have been featured guests on a number of national TV talk shows, and are regular travel and wine contributors for The Huffington Post.   The authors will be in Oakland celebrating the launch of their book at Ordinaire Wine Bar, which has quickly emerged as one of the most buzzed about wine bar destinations in the Bay Area since its opening last year. A fitting venue to celebrate Lodi and Wines of California, Ordinaire offers primarily small-production California wines, many of them made with natural techniques, and sports eight wines on tap for sampling.    The event will take place Saturday, September 20th at 5pm (4pm for a special media preview) at Ordinaire Wine Bar: 3354 Grand Ave Oakland, CA 94610.   For media inquiries, reservations and interviews, please contact Alexandra Fondren at Charles Communications Associates at 415|701-9463 or press@charlescomm.com.     ###      

Wines of Uruguay 2nd Annual U.S. Trade Tour   Sixteen member wineries of Wines of Uruguay (WoU), an association focused on international export and committed to promoting the quality and image of Uruguayan wine throughout the world, will pour many of their finest wines in a 3-city U.S. trade tasting tour in Chicago, Boston and Ft. Lauderdale in September. Each winery will pour up to five wines with an emphasis on Uruguay’s signature variety, Tannat. The events, which are reserved for members of the trade and press, will begin with a seminar on the regional diversity of Uruguayan wines presented by noted wine educator and speaker Gilles de Chambure, MS and will conclude with a walk-around tasting.   The 16 wineries on the U.S. tour are:   Alto de la Ballena  Ÿ•  Antigua Bodega Stagnari  Ÿ•  Artesana Winery  Ÿ•  Bodegas Carrau Bouza Bodega Boutique  •Ÿ  Juanicó/Familia Deicas  •Ÿ Familia Irurtia  •Ÿ  Familia Traversa   Finca Narbona  Ÿ•  Garzón  Ÿ•  Gimenez Mendez  Ÿ•  Marichal  Ÿ•  Pizzorno Family Estates Reinaldo De Lucca • Ÿ  Juan Toscanini E Hijos S.A.  •Ÿ  Vinos Finos H. Stagnari   Chicago, IL: Tuesday, September 9, 12-4pm City Winery 1200 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607 Press Contact: Kimberly Charles (415) 701-9463; press@charlescomm.com   Boston, MA: Thursday, September 11, 12-4pm Grill 23 161 Berkeley St, Boston, MA 02116 Press Contact: Kimberly Charles (415) 701-9463; press@charlescomm.com   Fort Lauderdale, FL: Monday, September 15, 12-4pm Market 17 1850 SE 17th, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 Press Contact: Kimberly Charles (415) 701-9463; press@charlescomm.com   The U.S. and Canada are Uruguay’s largest export markets after Brazil. With more Tannat grown in Uruguay than the rest of the world combined, Tannat is Uruguay’s signature variety. Uruguayan wineries have also found success with Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Albariño and Viognier.   For more information, please contact Kimberly Charles by phone at (415) 701-9463, by email at press@charlescomm.com or visit www.uruguaywinetour.com or WoU’s website www.winesofuruguay.com.   ###

      Lodi Celebrates 2014 Harvest with Sip Savor Lodi, September 26-28th! Premier three-day festival to include an al fresco harvest dinner in downtown Lodi, cellar tours and a grand tasting showcasing 40+ Lodi wineries   Lodi, CA– Join the Wines of Lodi, CA and Lodi Appellation’s vintners for Sip Savor Lodi – a wine country harvest celebration! Festivities kick off the evening of Friday, September 26th with a picturesque, al fresco Harvest Dinner on Pine Street in downtown Lodi, featuring farm-to-table highlights from the region’s agricultural bounty paired with Lodi’s most unique and delicious wines. Pine Street (one block between Sacramento and School Streets) will be closed to traffic for the event, allowing for an unparalleled harvest setting underneath the historic, Mission Revival Lodi Arch – a California Registered Landmark.   On Saturday, visitors can enjoy wine and barrel tastings, live music, delicious food and more as they tour the Lodi region during special Cellar Tours at participating wineries. The weekend celebration culminates on Sunday with the Grand Tasting, where educational seminars and award-winning wines from 40+ Lodi wineries will be featured alongside flavorful local bites and live music at the beautiful Wine & Roses Hotel.   “Sip Savor Lodi is a new and exciting way for locals and visitors alike to celebrate the winegrape and agricultural bounty grown in the Lodi region,” says Camron King, Executive Director of the Lodi Winegrape Commission. “Not only can attendees look forward to experiencing a variety of exceptional Lodi wines throughout the weekend but can expect to learn more about our heritage and our region’s unique terroir and climate by participating in fun, educational activities hosted by our passionate winemakers and growers.”   A truly comprehensive Lodi weekend experience, the complete event schedule is as follows:   Harvest Dinner • Downtown Lodi FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 • 6 PM - 9 PM Take your seat at our dinner table, set with style on downtown Lodi’s Pine Street! Celebrate the agricultural bounty grown in the Lodi region as you enjoy exquisite, freshly prepared cuisine by Elaine Bell Catering served al fresco alongside the region's finest wines.   Tickets are $125 per person and $1,000 for a reserved table of eight. Attendance is limited. Tickets are non-refundable. Must be 21 years of age to attend. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center at (209) 365-0621. Cellar Tours • Participating Lodi Wineries SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2014 • TIMES VARY BY WINERY Celebrate harvest with our passionate vintners in the intimacy of their cellars while enjoying wine and barrel tastings, live music, delicious eats, educational activities and more as you tour the Lodi region at your leisure. Experience firsthand the diversity, quality and hospitality that make Lodi the newest fine wine region in California. No ticket required. Some charges may apply. Must be 21 years of age to attend. For a complete list of participating wineries, please visit www.sipsavorlodi.com. Grand Tasting • Wine & Roses Hotel, Restaurant, Spa SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2014 • 1 PM - 4 PM Sip award-winning, handcrafted wines from 40+ Lodi wineries as you stroll the beautiful grounds of Wine & Roses Hotel. Savor tasty bites from the region’s finest food purveyors, relax to the sounds of live music at our open air garden lounge, or learn something new at the Sip & Savor Wine Seminars. Browse local olive oils, cheeses and sweet treats from regional vendors and take home your favorite wines from the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center.   Tickets for Sunday’s Grand Tasting are $55 per person in advance and $65 per person the day of the event. Designated driver tickets for Sunday’s Grand Tasting are available for $25 per person in advance or the day of the event. Tickets are non-refundable. Must be 21 years of age to attend. Tickets can be purchased at www.sipsavorlodi.com or by calling the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center at (209) 365-0621.   Tickets for all events can be purchased at www.sipsavorlodi.com or by calling the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center at (209)365.0621. No ticket is required for Saturday’s Cellar Tours. Must be 21 years of age to attend events.   About Lodi Wine Country   Located south of Sacramento and west of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, the Lodi wine region features 100,000 acres of vineyards that thrive in the classic Mediterranean climate of warm days and cool evenings. With more than 75 varieties currently being cultivated, Lodi offers a diverse portfolio of wines. While long known as a superior producer of Zinfandel, including an estimated 2,000 acres of pre-Prohibition own rooted vines, the area also produces award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah and Chardonnay. More recently, Lodi has begun producing varietals such as Albariño, Tempranillo, Graciano and Vermentino, among many others. Lodi has been a major winegrape growing region since the 1850’s, and today is farmed by over 750 growers. The region also serves as home to more than 80 boutique wineries specializing in small-lot, handmade wines that have garnered major awards at domestic and international wine competitions.  In addition, Lodi is one of the leading wine regions in sustainable viticulture. The Lodi Winegrape Commission created Lodi Rules™, California’s first third-party-certified sustainable winegrowing program, which implements green-farming practices. For more information about the Lodi wine region, please visit www.lodiwine.com. For media inquiries and interviews, please contact Alexandra Fondren at Charles Communications Associates at 415|701-9463 or press@charlescomm.com. For additional information regarding the Lodi Winegrape Commission, please contact Executive Director, Camron King, at 209|327-4727 or camron@lodiwine.com.   ###        

KIBO Saké to Debut at San Francisco’s 2014 Outside Lands Festival SakéOne Debuts Premium Junmai Canned Saké highlighting “Hope” in the Lingering Aftermath of the 2011 Tsunami     Forest Grove, OR – SakéOne, the United States’ leading brewer and importer of premium saké, announced today that it will debut its newest import, KIBO Saké, at the sold out 2014 Outside Lands Festival, which will take place August 8th-10th in San Francisco. Suisen Shuzo, a saké brewery located in the Iwate Prefecture on Japan’s Northeastern coast, produces KIBO, which translates to “hope” in Japanese.   On Friday March 11, 2011, the very day that Suisen Shuzo was preparing to ship its 2010 production, the magnitude 9.0 Tōhoku Earthquake struck the coast mere miles from Suisen’s facility in Rikuzentakata City. The resulting tsunami decimated the entire city, including the Suisen kura, which sits two kilometers from the shoreline. The facility was reduced to rubble and its debris scattered across several kilometers. Seven of Suisen’s employees perished in the disaster.   Suisen Shuzo, a valuable contributor to Rikuzentakata City’s local economy, vowed to rebuild their facility in the wake of the disaster. With the generous help of fellow brewer Iwate Meijo, Suisen was able to temporarily resume its operations at a facility in the neighboring town of Ichinoseki for the duration of the rebuilding process. Now, more than three years after the devastation that took the lives of seven dedicated employees (and almost 16,000 others across the eastern coastline of Japan), the Suisen kura stands proudly once again – an intrepid symbol of human perseverance and the legion of Japanese restoration efforts that remain ongoing to this day.   KIBO is a premium grade canned Junmai saké, and is crafted from Hitomebore rice with a 70% polish rate. It is deliciously soft and sweetly mellow with a slightly dry finish. It has a 15.5% alcohol by volume and comes packaged in compact 180 ml cans that were designed by Swig Studio in San Francisco, the fitting site of KIBO’s forthcoming US debut. KIBO will make its national commercial debut on September 1st and will be individually for $5.99 per can (Suggested national retail price).   For the second year in a row, SakéOne will be the only saké brand represented at Wine Lands, the popular tented area of the Outside Lands festival dedicated to sharing and celebrating superlative beverages. Last year, SakéOne at Outside Lands made news by introducing their Momokawa Organic Junmai Ginjo saké in keg form, the first brand to do so in the US. The draft saké was an immediate success and is now in national distribution.   Compassionate concertgoers can imbibe with pride, knowing that they are the first to enjoy premium saké that will also help the towns and regions still recovering from this tragic disaster. Beneath the lid of the KIBO can is a small paper tab that depicts the following message (superimposed above the image of a lone pine tree): “The Miracle Pine Tree is the symbol of Rikuzentakata City, home of KIBO Saké. Of 70,000 pine trees in the coastal region, it is the only tree that survived the tsunami of March 2011. Support the ongoing efforts to rebuild the lives of the people here by donating to Mercy Corps at mercycorps.org/Japan.”   During the 2014 Outside Lands festival please follow SakéOne’s activities at #DrinkColdSaké #SakéBetweenSets and #OSLsaké.  Also being poured this year will be the popular Momokawa Organic draft saké in a taiko drum keg as well as the Genshu grade g joy saké. About SakéOne SakéOne is America’s first craft saké producer and compliments its own fine products with a growing portfolio of fine Japanese saké imports. Its Oregon craft saké brands Momokawa, Moonstone, and g Saké are joined by import brands Murai Family, Yoshinogawa, Kasumi Tsuru, SakéMoto, Hakutsuru, KIBO and Tombo. A leader committed to saké education at the wholesale, retail and consumer levels, SakéOne is focused on expanding the enjoyment of premium saké in the United States. For more information, visit SakéOne’s website at sakeone.com.      About Outside Lands Outside Lands is produced by Another Planet Entertainment, Superfly Presents and Starr Hill Presents in a partnership with the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department. Now in its seventh year, Outside Lands has become a cherished event that the city of San Francisco has embraced. Fans from across the country flock to spend an incomparable weekend in one of America's greatest parks. Each year, festival organizers ensure that every facet of the event highlights the Bay Area and all of the components that make it one of the most desirable places to live and visit. In its first six years, Outside Lands raised over $8.3 million for the benefit of the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department. Based on a 2011 economic study, it is estimated that the festival generates over $70 million annually to the San Francisco economy. For current updates check out www.sfoutsidelands.com and follow Outside Lands on Facebook and on Twitter, @sfoutsidelands    For media information and interviews, please contact Kimberly Charles of Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415|701-9463.       # # #

Charles Krug Winery Appoints New Vice President, Direct to Consumer Sales DTC expert Aura Bland joins historic, family-owned winery   St. Helena, California – Charles Krug Winery co-proprietor Peter Mondavi Jr. announced today that Aura Bland will join the team as Vice President, Direct to Consumer Sales, to further develop the family winery’s growing portfolio of consumer accounts, effective August 4th.   The appointment underscores the company’s commitment to the next century on the eve of patriarch Peter Mondavi’s centennial, with its strategic plan to heavily invest in consumer hospitality offerings, including the recent investments in Charles Krug’s stunning new tasting room facility. Bland will report to Mike Jaeger, Chief Operating Officer.   A seasoned DTC and hospitality expert, Bland comes with a wealth of experience within the wine industry, having spent the last four and a half years as Director of Consumer Sales and Marketing at St. Francis Winery in Sonoma, where she managed all consumer direct channels, including the retail room, wine club, ecommerce, social media and special events.     Bland was instrumental in developing St. Francis Winery’s highly acclaimed wine and food program, which will benefit the promotion of Charles Krug’s new tasting room trattoria, Cucina di Rosa. Before St. Francis, Aura was the visitor center manager at Rosenblum Cellars (owned by Diageo Chateau & Estates).   Given the historic renovation of Charles Krug’s original 1872 Redwood Cellar into its new tasting room and hospitality center (in addition to the trattoria), Bland will develop programs delivering high touch visitor experiences as well as stronger offerings with the wine club, business development and the Direct to Consumer experience as a whole. Says Jaeger, “We conducted an exhaustive search to find just the right person, with the expertise to fully capitalize on the enormous opportunities that exist with our newly renovated tasting center.  Needless to say, we are all thrilled that Aura has accepted this role at the Charles Krug Winery.”   Bland graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Florida and holds a Master’s Degree in Journalism from Northeastern University.  When she is not working, Aura enjoys running, cycling, dinners with friends, and spending weekends with her family at their Russian River cottage.     About Charles Krug Winery The Charles Krug Winery, Napa Valley's oldest winery, was established by Prussian immigrant Charles Krug in 1861. In 1943, Italian immigrants Cesare and Rosa Mondavi purchased the historic property, which remains a family-owned winery producing estate-driven Napa Valley wines.  Built on a foundation of family values, hard work and European winemaking tradition, the winery offers a portfolio of Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-styled wines. The winery is under the direction of Peter Mondavi Jr., who along with his brother Marc Mondavi, stewards the family business passed to them by their father, legendary Napa Valley wine icon Peter Mondavi Sr., who continues to serve as President and CEO. The family is now proudly welcoming members of the fourth generation to the business, continuing a legacy started almost 70 years ago and setting a foundation for generations to come.   For press inquiries and images, please contact Kimberly Charles or Alexandra Fondren at Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415.701.9463.   ###      

    About Charles Communications Associates: We are an independent creative marketing communications firm focused on strategic marcomm both new and traditional who helps local and global companies create, build and launch brands. Recognized as one of the most effective firms particularly in the international wine industry, CCA is also known for success in the gourmet, natural and organic food and beverage categories, as well as for top shelf spirits and luxury products marketing. Realizing the constantly growing potential of new media as marketing platforms, Charles Communications develops and executes new media strategies for clients driven by an in-depth understanding and experience with social network sites, blogs and other platforms.   Job Description: We are looking for a part time intern (3 days a week) who can work at our San Francisco office and who will jump in and join our fast paced team. We need a smart, detail oriented, resourceful individual who is self-motivated, intrepid, enthusiastic, and willing to learn. The internship start date is Monday, August 18th and will last for 3 months (or more if there’s a good fit).   Responsibilities: ·      Be familiar with CCA’s clients and our general marketing strategies ·      Assist with CCA’s social media channels ·      Work on client projects as needed such as event support, social media, research, press releases and more ·      Assist in sending product sample sends to media ·      General office assistance, phones, meetings, errands    Qualifications: ·      Familiarity with Macs & Excel in particular ·      Up-to-date on the latest social media trends and social media savvy in a variety of channels: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr, etc. ·      Timeliness, attention to detail and accuracy are critical to this position ·      Good written & verbal communications skills are essential to this role ·      Ability to work well with others while also running with projects independently at times ·      Knowledge of the food & wine industry is a plus ·      Previous PR experience or communications education is a plus ·      Highly motivated and eager to learn   Compensation: This internship offers school credit only. Several of our internships in the past have resulted in full time employment.    Food & wine knowledge a major edge for this position.  To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter, along with the answers the following questions to jordan@charlescomm.com:     1.     What most interests you about working in Public Relations? 2.     What are the top 5 media outlets you read in your free time and why? 3.     What is the most recent memorable food and/or wine experience and what made it so?

Forward Thinking with “LoCA Thoughts” The Lodi Winegrape Commission’s “LoCA Thoughts” web videos aim to educate and entertain curious wine lovers   Lodi, CA – ‘Here’s a LoCA thought!’ has become a familiar catch phrase in Lodi, California and beyond, thanks to the Lodi Winegrape Commission’s popular video series, “LoCA Thoughts”. The web series features charismatic local wine grower Ben Kolber, who playfully demystifies wine while providing wine lovers with creative pairings and fun, down-to-earth solutions to some of the most common wine-related questions. The series speaks to the diversity of the grape varieties in Lodi’s wine region as well as the varied preferences of its consumers’ palates.   Kolber tells viewers to trust their instincts when tasting and purchasing wine, and not to be too influenced or intimidated by more practiced wine aficionados. “Even experts make mistakes now and again,” says Kolber. “So here’s a ‘LoCA thought’ - see what pleases your palate, not somebody else’s.”   Kolber’s disarming persona illustrates the Lodi region’s mission to educate budding wine enthusiasts in an entertaining and engaging way. The clips are easy to digest for busy oenophiles and casual consumers alike, spanning from 30 seconds to one minute. Recent videos include paella pairings, perfect wines for tailgating aka “wine gating,” and a lesson on how to distinguish aromas and flavors in a wine.   Kolber is the owner of KG Vineyard Management, which is Certified Green under the Lodi Rules™ for Sustainable Winegrowing - California’s first 3rd party-certified sustainable winegrowing program. A graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston, Kolber is an avid musician and a busy father to three young children.   “LoCA Thoughts” videos can be viewed at http://www.lodiwine.com/locathoughts/.   About Lodi Wine Country   Located south of Sacramento and west of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, the Lodi wine region features over 100,000 acres of vineyards that thrive in the classic Mediterranean climate of warm days and cool evenings. With more than 75 varieties currently being cultivated, Lodi offers a diverse portfolio of wines. While long known as a superior producer of Zinfandel, including an estimated 2,000 acres of pre-Prohibition own rooted vines, the area also produces award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah and Chardonnay. More recently, Lodi has begun producing varietals such as Albariño, Tempranillo, Graciano and Vermentino, among many others. Lodi has been a major winegrape growing region since the 1850’s, and today is farmed by over 750 growers. The region also serves as home to more than 80 boutique wineries specializing in small-lot, handmade wines that have garnered major awards at domestic and international wine competitions.  In addition, Lodi is one of the leading wine regions in sustainable viticulture. The Lodi Winegrape Commission created Lodi Rules™, California’s first third-party-certified sustainable winegrowing program, which implements green-farming practices. For more information about the Lodi wine region, please visit www.lodiwine.com. For media inquiries and interviews, please contact Alexandra Fondren at Charles Communications Associates at 415|701-9463 or press@charlescomm.com. For additional information regarding the Lodi Winegrape Commission, please contact Executive Director, Camron King, at 209|327-4727 or camron@lodiwine.com.   ###        

Lodi to partner with Napa Valley’s CIA to host “Eat.Drink.Learn.” – A deluxe wine and food experience. Lodi wines will be exclusively featured on August 7th at The Culinary Institute of America’s new wine education dinner series, “Eat. Drink. Learn.”   Lodi, CA – The Culinary Institute of America at Greystone is teaming up with the Wines of Lodi, CA on Thursday, August 7th at 6pm for the next “Eat. Drink. Learn.” wine education series. The event will take place in the Rudd Center at The CIA’s historic St. Helena campus and will feature a seminar and tasting hosted by five of Lodi’s top winemakers, followed by an expertly paired dinner on The CIA’s terrace.   Attendees will learn more about Lodi’s historic and diverse winegrowing region in a seminar entitled “Five Things You Need To Learn About Lodi”, with a discussion panel and tasting led by vintners from Acquiesce Winery, Fields Family Winery, Harney Lane Winery, LangeTwins Winery and Onesta Wines.   Immediately following at 7pm will be an al fresco, three-course dinner on the terrace, prepared with local, seasonal ingredients by the talented CIA chefs. Each course is designed around the premium Lodi wines with which they will be paired. The inventive menus at past events have been said to rival those of Napa Valley’s top dining establishments.   “Eat. Drink. Learn.” aims to sharpen the wine IQs of curious wine and food lovers from all levels of expertise, in keeping with The CIA’s nearly 60-year tradition of epicurean education. “We’re excited to participate in this series and are looking forward to providing guests with a deeper understanding and appreciation of our diverse winegrowing region,” expresses Camron King, Executive Director of the Lodi Winegrape Commission. “What better way to experience the incredible wines of Lodi than to showcase them alongside The CIA’s world class-cuisine?”    All-inclusive tickets cost $115, and can be purchased online, or by calling the CIA’s Rudd Center for Wine Studies at 707-967-2568 or via email at mi_sanch@culinary.edu.   About Lodi Wine Country   Located south of Sacramento and west of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, the Lodi wine region features 100,000 acres of vineyards that thrive in the classic Mediterranean climate of warm days and cool evenings. With more than 75 varieties currently being cultivated, Lodi offers a diverse portfolio of wines. While long known as a superior producer of Zinfandel, including an estimated 2,000 acres of pre-Prohibition own rooted vines, the area also produces award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah and Chardonnay. More recently, Lodi has begun producing varietals such as Albariño, Tempranillo, Graciano and Vermentino, among many others. Lodi has been a major winegrape growing region since the 1850’s, and today is farmed by over 750 growers. The region also serves as home to more than 80 boutique wineries specializing in small-lot, handmade wines that have garnered major awards at domestic and international wine competitions.  In addition, Lodi is one of the leading wine regions in sustainable viticulture. The Lodi Winegrape Commission created Lodi Rules™, California’s first third-party-certified sustainable winegrowing program, which implements green-farming practices. For more information about the Lodi wine region, please visit www.lodiwine.com. For media inquiries and interviews, please contact Alexandra Fondren at Charles Communications Associates at 415|701-9463 or press@charlescomm.com. For additional information regarding the Lodi Winegrape Commission, please contact Executive Director, Camron King, at 209|327-4727 or camron@lodiwine.com.   ###    

Charles Krug Winery Hospitality Center to Open Trattoria The eagerly anticipated Cucina di Rosa Trattoria debuts July 18th   St. Helena, California — Charles Krug will delight locals and epicurean pilgrims to Napa Valley’s wine country on Friday, July 18th, when the winery formally opens its Cucina di Rosa Italian trattoria. The Cucina’s realization was the final element of a $9.5 million restoration and beautification of the Redwood Cellar Building designed by noted architect Howard Backen.  Named in honor of the winery’s matriarch Rosa Mondavi, and launched to commemorate the 100th birthday of her son, Peter, the opening brings the renovation of the historic winery and property full circle.   Cucina di Rosa will initially be open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM. With a menu designed by Napa Valley celebrity chef, Richard Haake, the trattoria will offer a variety of rustic panini sandwiches, antipasti, salads as well as traditional Italian snack items designed to pair beautifully with Charles Krug’s estate wines.   Meant to reflect the entertaining style that epitomizes the Italian heritage of proprietor Peter Mondavi Sr. and his family, guests will have the option to dine in the spacious tasting room or picnic on the tree-coveredgrounds. Says Chef Haake, “Our inspiration is Rosa, but our focus isn't so much on her recipes but her gracious hospitality. Rosa was always quick to share her daily creation from the family kitchen. The Cucina will focus on fresh, homemade products that include our bread, antipasti, salads, panini and sweet bites made daily.”   Charles Krug has enjoyed a close relationship with The Culinary Institute of America at Greystone since the inauguration of its Chef Larry Forgione-led CIA Student Farm at Charles Krug Winery. Honoring this partnership with an emphasis on fresh ingredients is important to Chef Haake. The Cucina will enjoy access to produce from the property’s shared CIA Student Farm, using its seasonal ingredients as inspiration for the chef’s daily specials.   Haake goes on to note Cucina di Rosa’s partnership with Equator coffee. No good meal is complete without a finale of top quality espresso drinks.  “We are excited to partner with Equator. We have hired a great barista, Rosa Villenueva to make perfect espresso and cappuccinos. Yes her name is "Rosa", a happy coincidence.”   For more information about the winery, its offerings both culinarian and vinous please visit Charles Krug’s website.   About Charles Krug Winery The Charles Krug Winery, Napa Valley's oldest winery, was established by Prussian immigrant Charles Krug in 1861. In 1943, Italian immigrants Cesare and Rosa Mondavi purchased the historic property, which remains a family-owned winery producing estate-driven Napa Valley wines.  Built on a foundation of family values, hard work and European winemaking tradition, the winery offers a portfolio of Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-styled wines. The winery is under the direction of Peter Mondavi Jr., who along with his brother Marc Mondavi, stewards the family business passed to them by their father, legendary Napa Valley wine icon Peter Mondavi Sr., who continues to serve as President and CEO. The family is now proudly welcoming members of the fourth generation to the business, continuing a legacy started almost 70 years ago and setting a    foundation for generations to come.   For press inquiries and images, please contact Kimberly Charles or Alexandra Fondren at Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415.701.9463.     ###

Charles Krug Winery teams with Morton’s and Mastro’s Restaurant groups Raises $500,000 for Make-A-Wish® Celebrating its 12th anniversary, the annual Make-A-Wish® Foundation fundraising dinners hosted by Morton’s and Mastro’s Restaurant groups and Charles Krug’s Peter Mondavi Jr. have raised nearly $500,000       St. Helena, California – Peter Mondavi Jr. of Charles Krug Winery and Landry’s Inc.’s Morton’s and Mastro’s Restaurant groups recently celebrated their long-term commitment to The Make-A-Wish Foundation, with four successful June fundraising dinners that raised $48,575, bringing the grand total amount to $482,264 over twelve years. All proceeds go to Make-A-Wish®.   The Make-A-Wish® Foundation has been bettering the lives of American children living with a life-threatening illness since 1980. Through granting the ‘wishes’ of children living with life-threatening illnesses, Make-A-Wish® aims to help these children fight back with strength, courage and most importantly, hope. Through the generosity and hard work of companies like Charles Krug Winery and Landry’s Inc., Make-A-Wish® is able to grant a wish, on average, every 38 minutes to a child in need.   This year’s events included dinners on both coasts, including Morton’s in Reston, VA and Boston-Seaport, MA, as well as Mastro’s in Scottsdale, AZ and Costa Mesa, CA. Successful auction items included 18-liter bottles of 2011 Charles Krug Vintage Selection Cabernet Sauvignon.            Peter Mondavi Jr. co-hosts these Make-A-Wish® dinners with Landry’s Vice President of Wine and Spirits, Tylor Field. They have worked together since the first dinner in 2003, making the efforts at these Make-A-Wish® dinners a joint success.    Peter Mondavi Jr.’s twelve years of dedication towards such a worthy cause is something he holds dear to his heart. "It has been an honor and privilege to work alongside Tylor for 48 dinners over 12 years and experience the generosity that comes forth in all the communities to which we travel,” he said. “With cumulative donations of nearly $500,000, it's comforting to know that we have helped to bring hope, strength and joy to so many children and their families who face such daunting medical challenges."   Of their joint efforts, Field says, “To be able to give back to all the communities we do business in has always been important to both of our brands. Especially children. Traveling and working with Peter is also an honor. That his is one of the few “family” wineries left in Napa adds to the allure of working with a charity that helps entire families.  What started as a small idea to contribute to the foundation has turned into a successful, 12-year endeavor. With the help of our guests, Peter and Make-A-Wish®, we hope to be able to continue to grant wishes to children and their families for many more years to come.”   Charles Krug Winery and the Morton’s and Mastro’s Restaurant groups hope to continue holding events for Make-A-Wish® to further support the cause. To donate to the Foundation, visit their website at wish.org   About Charles Krug Winery The Charles Krug Winery, Napa Valley's oldest winery, was established by Prussian immigrant Charles Krug in 1861. In 1943, Italian immigrants Cesare and Rosa Mondavi purchased the historic property, which remains a family-owned winery producing estate-driven Napa Valley wines.  Built on a foundation of family values, hard work and European winemaking tradition, the winery offers a portfolio of Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-styled wines. The winery is under the direction of Peter Mondavi Jr., who along with his brother Marc Mondavi, stewards the family business passed to them by their father, legendary Napa Valley wine icon Peter Mondavi Sr., who continues to serve as President and CEO. The family is now proudly welcoming members of the fourth generation to the business, continuing a legacy started almost 70 years ago and setting a foundation for generations to come.   For press inquiries and images, please contact Kimberly Charles or Alexandra Fondren at Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415.701.9463.   ###    

Emeritus Vineyards offering Tours by Appointment at their Hallberg Ranch Estate Vineyard & Winery Location Now open to the public, consumers are invited to tour the winery and taste current releases Sebastopol, Ca — Emeritus Vineyards is thrilled to offer private consumer tours by appointment at their Hallberg Ranch Estate Vineyard in Sebastopol. Nestled in the heart of the Russian River Valley, appointments range from 60-90 minutes in length and include a vineyard tour as well as a comprehensive visit to the winery to experience Emeritus’ farming and vinification practices. Tours conclude with a tasting of the winery’s acclaimed estate Pinot Noirs: Hallberg Ranch and William Wesley.   In addition to the more comprehensive tours of the facility, Emeritus also offers abbreviated, 30-45-minute tastings—which can be enjoyed in the comfort of the tasting room or outside on the picnic tables. All tastings have a personalized educationalslant, and the experience can be tailored to accommodate all levels of wine knowledge – from novice tasters to industry experts. Guests are invited to picnic on the grounds with provisions from nearby restaurants (K&L Bistro, Mom’s Apple Pie and The Barlow restaurant district in downtown Sebastopol are all less than a 10 minute drive).   The current release of Hallberg Ranch (2011) is an important one for the winery – it is one of the first vintages that was 100% dry-farmed, producing a Burgundian-style Pinot with expressive red fruit, earthy terroir character and vibrant minerality. Proprietor Brice Jones and his daughter Mari (official Emeritus ‘President of Fun’) walk each guest through their estate vineyard (the largest dry-farmed vineyard in Sonoma County) to experience why sustainable, organic farming, as well as eschewing irrigation, are practices that are not only better for the environment, but also better for the wine. In these years of record drought, it’s no secret that dry-farmed vineyards are poised to thrive in more difficult vintages.    The cozy tasting room is characterized by a vibrant Rigoberto Renteria mural that pays homage to the Emeritus Team, all of whom have a unique back story your tasting host can expand upon. Lucky patrons might encounter beloved winery dogs, Baci and Satchmo.   Interested parties are invited to schedule an appointment in advance. Appointments are available from 10am-3pm Monday-Saturday. Full 60-90 minute tours and tastings are $20 per person, shorter tastings are $10 per person. Space is limited, so guests are encouraged to call ahead to ensure a complete visit.   About Emeritus Vineyards Emeritus Vineyards, is located in Sebastopol, California, in the heart of the Russian River Valley. Established in 1999, the winery is defined by a commitment to producing Pinot Noir of the highest caliber. Wines are crafted based on proprietor Brice Jones’ philosophy that soil gives wine its character, climate gives wine its personality, and that man gives wine its spirit and style. The result is two Estate Grown and Bottled Pinot Noirs: Emeritus, Hallberg Ranch, from the home ranch in the heart of the Russian River Valley; and Emeritus, William Wesley, from the mountain vineyards on the Sonoma Coast near Annapolis.   For press inquiries and images, please contact Kimberly Charles or Alexandra Fondren at Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415.701.9463. 

                       Award-Winning California Winemaker Comes Home to Massachusetts Vin Bin to host Southborough native Laura Barrett for a tasting of her Casey Flat Ranch wines on Friday, July 25th     Marlborough, Mass— Join Southborough native Laura Barrett as she comes home to debut her award-winning Casey Flat Ranch wines at Vin Bin’s Marlborough location on Friday, July 25th, from 5-7pm. Barrett’s artisan Bordeaux and Rhone style wines have received numerous accolades, including a (very recent) Double Gold Medal win at the June 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.   Barrett is thrilled to return to her hometown to present her wines. She credits her Algonquin Regional High School education (particularly her AP chemistry teacher, Lorraine Zanini) for sparking her interest in science – a subject she went on to pursue at the University of Vermont, the University of California at Davis, where she received her Masters in Viticulture & Enology (a highly competitive program), and within prestigious wine cellars in New Zealand, Australia and California.   Of the July 25th tasting, Barrett says, "It's a proud moment for me to return to my hometown to showcase Casey Flat Ranch wines.  I have a lot of ties to this area - my family, my childhood memories, and the roots of my science education. It’s a great opportunity to share the work I've been doing in California."   Barrett has deep local ties. Her family still lives in the area, and her grandparents owned (the now closed, but much beloved) The Andrea restaurant in Southborough. She comes back twice a year, but has never presented her wines to her hometown region. Like a good Bay Stater, she describes her winemaking style as “very realistic” and credits her success at Casey Flat Ranch to the estate’s exceptional fruit, as well as her preference to let the grapes speak for themselves.   Taste for yourself on July 25th! Barrett will be pouring from 5-7pm at Vin Bin’s Marlborough location: 91 Main St. (at the old Fire Station), Marlborough, MA 01752. Casey Flat Ranch wines are sold through Ruby Wines. For more information, please call 508-480-9463, or contact info@thevinbin.com.     About Casey Flat Ranch Winery Casey Flat Ranch is based in the Capay Valley AVA, in the Vaca Mountains bordering the eastern side of Napa County (22 miles due east of St. Helena). The working ranch is defined by its award-winning Rhone and Bordeaux-style blends, stunningly rugged location, the purebred Longhorn cattle that roam the estate, and a rich homesteading heritage that dates back to California’s Gold Rush era. Casey Flat Ranch's two brands, the Estate wines and Open Range, serve as the perfect way to ignite the frontier spirit in any wine lover.   For press inquiries, please contact Alexandra Fondren at Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415-701-9463.     # # #

SAN FRANCISCO INTERNATIONAL WINE COMPETITION CELEBRATES 34th YEAR WITH GLOBAL ARRAY OF WINNERS 31 Countries and 26 States compete in America’s largest international wine competition San Francisco, CA - A truly international competition wrapped up on June 22nd with the San Francisco International Wine Competition where another record number of wines were evaluated at San Francisco’s Hotel Nikko, judged by some of the best palates in the country.  Fifty-eight judges from the arenas of retail, restaurants, winemaking, media, and consulting from Tokyo to Calistoga judged 4,570 wines from 31 countries and 26 states.  Best of Show awards went to 12 different countries from Argentina to the Czech Republic to Portugal, in keeping with this year’s World Cup fever and proving the true international nature of this event. America’s love affair with Cabernet Sauvignon was evidenced with 500 entries this year, while Pinot Noir showed a significant increase - up 22% with 419 submissions. The Winery Portfolio of the Year went to Trinchero Family Estates in St. Helena, California.  The Tasting Panel Magazine Winery of the Year went to Maryhill Winery of Goldendale, Washington and the André Tchelistcheff Winemaker of the Year award went to Cinzia Merli of Le Macchiole in Bolgheri, Italy.  The Competition implemented a new 100 point score system for all Gold and Double Gold medals and with the help of Tim McDonald, the new Director of Judging and wine industry veteran communicator, 17 new judges were added to a team of 58 who included such noted wine talents as Heidi Barrett winemaker; Wine Enthusiast critic Virginie Boone; Court of Master Sommeliers’ Fred Dame, MS, and leading wine blogger Joe Roberts. The medal count for 2014 included 200 Double Gold awards, a distinction given when a wine unanimously wins gold medals by all the judges evaluating it, 488 Gold medals, 1,601 Silver medals and 1,438 Bronze medals. A complete listing of winners can be found at www.sfwinecomp.com. Maryhill Winery’s entrepreneurial approach and commitment to quality earned them the Tasting Panel Winery of the Year accolade this year.  Maryhill, Washington State’s 10th largest winery, has been instrumental in bringing global awareness to the Columbia River region. Maryhill sources more than 30 varietals of grapes from some of the most highly regarded vineyards in the state, producing nearly 40 different wines. Cinzia Merli of Le Macchiole in Bolgheri, Italy, earned the André Tchelistcheff Winemaker of the Year award. For years, Merli, along with her expert team (with consulting enologist Luca D'Attoma), have been on the cutting edge of Italian winemaking, remaining at the forefront of many developments in Maremma and Italy including working with low yields, densely planted vineyards and using small barrels for the flagship Merlot, Messorio. “Best in Show” awards went to Champagne Collet of France and their 2004 Brut (Best in Show Sparkling), Niner Wine Estates of Paso Robles for their 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon (Best in Show Red), Petr Vacenovsky of Czech Republic for the 2013 Pozdní Sběr Riesling, (Best in Show White), and Fattoria La Vialla’s 2010 Vin Santo (Best in Show Dessert Wine). Other varietal and blend-specific “Best” awards were presented to 40 wineries including Roaring Meg of New Zealand, Trione Vineyards & Winery of Russian River Valley, Lleiroso of Spain, Luma Chequen of the Chile, South Coast Winery of Temecula, Inkblot of Lodi, Jed of Argentina, Sileni Estates of New Zealand, Borgogno Barolo of Piedmont, Italy, Becker Vineyards of Texas, Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estates of Canada, and Ryozeki Shuzo of Japan, for their Saké, among many other notable winners. The 2014 Label Competition was held on June 24th. Of the 130 entrants, 10 merited a Double Gold award for excellence in label design, more than any previous year. The 2014 Label Design judges included Joel Blum of SF International Wine Competition, Thomas Gronbukt of the Academy of Art University, Patti Mangan from Imagine That Design Studio, and Robert Riccetti of Riccetti Design.   Competition director Anthony Dias Blue, renowned food and wine authority and publisher, leads and organizes one of the most important and comprehensive wine competitions in the world. Of this year’s competition he stated, “It’s thrilling to see the international aspect of this competition grow and thrive every year, to have 31 countries participate is unprecedented, showing the great excitement around the enjoyment of wine globally.  Naturally we are excited about the quality and caliber of the U.S. entries every year and we see the bar of quality across the boards continue to rise.”  Tim McNally, host of The Wine Show WIST in New Orleans, a 12-year veteran judge states of the competition, “The quality of the wine entered at SFIWC is of the highest standards, with a beautiful setting at the Nikko and an amazing staff.  I love coming here every year!” Tim McDonald, Director of Judging, said “I am very proud to work with such a terrific pool of wine judges that cover every aspect of the wine industry and represent over 2 billion in wine sales collectively. Sommeliers, journalists, buyers, producers, importers and wholesalers make SF International Wine Competition the most prestigious wine competition held in America every year, as is evident in the results from our 34th year.” The 2014 San Francisco International Wine Competition sponsors included The Tasting Panel Magazine, Kent Hanson Photography, Elements Design Group, Geoffrey Nelson Photography and the Hotel Nikko.  For a complete list of winners and judges, visit the San Francisco International Wine Competition's website: www.sfwinecomp.com.  Photos can be viewed online at http://adobe.ly/1nrXIna For interviews and additional media needs, please contact Kimberly Charles of Charles Communications Associates at press@charlescomm.com or 415|701-9463. ###