Wine’s Friendly Faces Tips & Tricks
for Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
Get to know the wine stewards who are always available to help
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had
no trouble tracking down outstanding
Californian wines and great values. Many
of these winners were already on our
shelves, while others are welcome
newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition:
Hahn SLH Pinot Noir
Double Gold Medal
"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it
is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml.
Santa Lucia Highlands Barefoot Moscato
Gold Medal
Moscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best
value in Moscato. If you like your wines
with a touch of sweetness and a little lower
alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml.
California Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range
RedGold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free
Range RedNeed a white and a red for a big shindig
and don't know what to buy? These would
be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual
unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and
refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red
berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
Round Hill Chardonnay
Gold Medal
"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with
cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate,
it has lively acidity and a round, creamy
texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot,
nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky
finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml.
California Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet
SauvignonGold Medal
Not only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine
than a regular 750ml bottle),
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet
SauvignonGold Medal
This is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one
of three wines we are featuring from the
Hahn Winery — all are values in their price
bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but
not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit
concentration and enough structure to let
you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml.
California
it is in probably the most environmentally
friendly wine package we have. Great for
camping or anywhere not suited for a
glass bottle. 1 ltr. California
2008 Ravenswood Zinfandel
Gold Medal
A California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the
premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas
and flavors of raspberries, blueberries,
black cherries, and spicy hints of oak.
Well balanced, with supple tannins and a
long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a
pleasure to drink now and will be for the
next couple of years. 750 ml. California
Loredona Viognier
Gold Medal
Offers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee
and guava — complemented by crisp,
refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus
flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp
acidity and mineral notes. This elegant
Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of
dishes. 750 ml. Monterey We’ve got all of these award winners on
our shelves and on sale for the next two
months, so we hope you’ll stop by and
check them out. You might find your new
favorite!
Dont be intimidated by the thought of
entertaining! Whether you’re having an
intimate gathering or an all-out bash,
Nugget Markets is always here to help
you make your party a success. Some
people shy away from the thought of
entertaining large parties in their homes,
but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is
some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the
biggest unknowns when planning a party.
How much wine should I get? How many
appetizers do people expect? It’s
important to keep guests satisfied, but at
the same time, not to overdo it and blow
your budget. Follow this handy guide for
help with some frequently asked
questions:How much wine do I need?
Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses
of wine. If you order a whole case of wine
(that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to
have enough for one glass of wine each
for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will
want to partake in more than just one
glass, so please plan accordingly. Also,
make sure to ask our wine stewards about
discount that may be available for large
wine purchases, and remember, when you
buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits,
you will receive a 10% discount (some
exclusions may apply, see a wine steward
for details).
How should I serve cheese to my
guests?Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment
to a well-selected array of wines, and
Nugget Markets cheese specialists are
always happy to help you make your
selections. When preparing a cheese
board, always start with a cheese-friendly
surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a
general guideline, when buying cheese
for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per
person per cheese.
Cheeses are best served in odd numbers
(arranged according to flavor) with a
common theme, like country of origin or
type. Always use separate knives for each
cheese and remember to serve them at
room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors
doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per
appetizer if you are serving them as a start
to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in
this format, you will not need to serve
more than one or two options. Heavy hors
doeuvres parties require quite a bit more.
Traditionally, guests will consume a
minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2
hour period.
In addition to providing individual-
sized nibbles, it is always a good idea to
consider including one or two composed
platters such as fruit, grilled vegetables,
spinach dip or hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Shannon Rock has been known to travel
the globe in search of the next great wine
that she can share with Nugget Markets
guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina
and Spain," in pursuit of great wine,
Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all
the different wine-growing regions; in
Argentina, I learned about the families that
produce wine, and the different grape
varietals produced there; and in Spain, I
learned about the unique styles of wine that
come from that country." Spain holds a
particularly special place in Shannon's
heart — she says her favorite food and
wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As
for her favorite wine on its own, it's a
three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and
Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of
these varietals are completely different and
have their own uniqueness about them."
Next time you're shopping in the wine
department at El Dorado Hills, stop and
talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If
you're lucky, he might give you a few tips
about ... basketball? "Not many guests
know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship
to play basketball at the University of
Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John
says. After his basketball career, he even
stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil
pipeline! These days, his focus is more on
wine — though don't ask him what his
favorite wine is, because he simply can't
choose. "I like all of them!" he says.
Similarly, he says his favorite food is
"everything."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville
Nugget Market
Having been in the wine-buying business
for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville
Wine Steward Brian Madden says that
when he initially started working with
wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I
need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon
Bay needed someone to run the liquor
department. My interest grew from the
job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has
traveled all over the world pursuing his
passion for grapes, including to Spain,
Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina.
"Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite
place to travel for the wine industry," Brian
says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent
grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it
for the depth of dark fruits, layering,
balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis
(Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward
Michael Taylor any questions you might
have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is
always willing to help, and his extensive
knowledge of wines will certainly come in
handy. Michael boasts expert knowledge in
both areas, because before coming to
Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not
always have been an expert in fine wine
and cuisine, but he has long been
employed in the food industry. Take his
first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at
Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise
Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has
graduated from fries to wines,
completing his first-level training from
the Court of Master Sommeliers, and
also attaining a Certified Specialist of
Wine designation. Steve's other interests
include opera, soccer, and especially
bicycling — on his off time, he has
volunteered at the Sacramento Bike
Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike
Technician from the United Bicycle
Institute. It may come as no surprise,
then, that Steve says one of his favorite
things is "a cold beer after a long, hard
bicycle ride."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis
(Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward
Michael Taylor any questions you might
have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He
is always willing to help, and his
extensive knowledge of wines will
certainly come in handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in
both areas, because before coming to
Nugget Market, he spent 17 years
working as a chef. After becoming
involved with winemaker dinners and
selecting wines for his restaurant's wine
list, Michael made the transition to wine
steward, and he is currently working on
completing his certification as a Master
Sommelier. Michael has also traveled
extensively to the world's major
food-and-wine regions, including the
Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region
in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire
Valley in France.
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West
Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling,
West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom
Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is
probably the most mis-understood grape
varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a
fan, having traveled to Chateau St.
Michelle in Washington state to learn
more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer
a wide range of aromas and flavors, and
they pair very well with many foods."
Of course, Tom is a fan of many other
wine varietals as well, including Pinot
Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet
Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite
Sirah (for its accessibility). A
Sacramento native, Tom has lived all
across the Golden state, but he returned
to his hometown of Sacramento, where
he currently resides with his wife and
three children.
Every summer we base an issue of
the Wine Press on winners from the
California State Fair. This wine fair is
a very substantial tasting, where
nearly 3,000 California wines are
judged. However, for this issue we
decided to glean winners from an even
larger fair involving wines from all
over America — the San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale
Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this
event has really evolved over the
years. In its early stages, the
competition solely included wines
from northern Sonoma and southern
Mendocino Counties. It later
expanded to include wines from all
wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and
Lake Counties — then the entire state,
and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition has now
grown to become the largest
competition of American wines in the
world. From the 3,800 wines that were
entered in 2007, it has now risen to a
staggering 4,913 entries in 2010.
Today, 60 prestigious experts from
across America’s media, trade,
hospitality and education industries
join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from
California wineries. While there was
limited availability for most of the
out-of-state winners, we fortunately
had no trouble tracking down
outstanding Californian wines and
great values. Many of these winners
were already on our shelves, while
others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the
competition: Hahn SLH Pinot Noir
Double Gold Medal
"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At
$19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank
Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot Moscato
Gold Medal
Moscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the
best value in Moscato. If you like your
wines with a touch of sweetness and a
little lower alcohol, this varietal is for
you. 750 ml. California Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free
Range RedGold Medal — Pinot Grigio and
Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big
shindig and don't know what to buy?
These would be perfect as BBQ wines
or for any casual function. The Pinot
Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing,
whereas the red blend is light to
medium bodied, with nice red berry
fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet
SauvignonGold Medal
This is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double
Gold. It is one of three wines we are
featuring from the Hahn Winery — all
are values in their price bracket. This
is the lower tier in price, but not
quality; it has solid dark berry fruit
concentration and enough structure to
let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon.
750 ml. California
These wines are all award winners,
and you can’t go wrong with any of
these recommendations. We know it
can be daunting to pick out the perfect
wine, so if you’re still having trouble
deciding, keep in mind that you can
always ask a Wine Steward in our
stores if you have any questions. We
know you’ll find something that you
love. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the
Wine Press on winners from the California
State Fair. This wine fair is a very
substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000
California wines are judged. However, for
this issue we decided to glean winners from
an even larger fair involving wines from all
over America — the San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus
Fair Wine Competition, this event has
really evolved over the years. In its early
stages, the competition solely included
wines from northern Sonoma and southern
Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to
include wines from all wineries in Sonoma,
Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the
entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle
Wine Competition has now grown to
become the largest competition of
American wines in the world. From the
3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it
has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries
in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from
across America’s media, trade, hospitality
and education industries join together to
judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from
California wineries. While there was
limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here
to help you! Next time you’re in the wine
aisle in one of our stores struggling to
figure out which wine to pair with a steak
or a light salad, speak with one of our
knowledgable wine stewards. They are
always happy to help you make your
selection.Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West
Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling,
West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom
Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is
probably the most mis-understood grape
varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan,
having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in
Washington state to learn more about the
varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of
aromas and flavors, and they pair very well
with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan
of many other wine varietals as well,
including Pinot Noir (for its complexity),
Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and
Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A
Sacramento native, Tom has lived all
across the state, but returned to his
hometown where he currently resides with
his wife and three children.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward,
Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not
always have been an expert in fine wine
and cuisine, but he has long been employed
in the food industry. Take his first job: "I
was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the
newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says.
Today, Steve has graduated from fries to
wines, completing his first-level training
from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and
also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine
designation. Steve's other interests include
opera, soccer, and especially bicycling —
on his off time, he has volunteered at the
Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a
Certified Bike Technician from the United
Bicycle Institute. It may come as no
surprise, then, that Steve says one of his
favorite things is "a cold beer after a long,
hard bicycle ride."
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward,
Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward
Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy
living outside. Maybe that's why his
favorite product from Nugget's adult
beverage department is Knob Creek
Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're
camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha
says. Keeping with the outdoor theme,
Misha, who has been a Nugget associate
since 2003, says that his favorite food is
"barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky
flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha
also says he adheres to the wisdom passed
down to us by one of our founding fathers,
Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine’s Friendly Faces Tips & Tricks
for Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s
finest from the
largest competition
of American wines in
the world
Get to know Nugget Markets’ wine stewards, who are always available to help
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had
no trouble tracking down outstanding
Californian wines and great values. Many
of these winners were already on our
shelves, while others are welcome
newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition:
Hahn SLH Pinot Noir
Double Gold Medal
"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it
is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml.
Santa Lucia Highlands Barefoot Moscato
Gold Medal
Moscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best
value in Moscato. If you like your wines
with a touch of sweetness and a little lower
alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml.
California Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range
RedGold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free
Range RedNeed a white and a red for a big shindig
and don't know what to buy? These would
be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual
unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and
refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red
berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
Round Hill Chardonnay
Gold Medal
"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with
cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate,
it has lively acidity and a round, creamy
texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot,
nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky
finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml.
California Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet
SauvignonGold Medal
Not only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine
than a regular 750ml bottle),
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet
SauvignonGold Medal
This is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one
of three wines we are featuring from the
Hahn Winery — all are values in their price
bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but
not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit
concentration and enough structure to let
you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml.
California
it is in probably the most environmentally
friendly wine package we have. Great for
camping or anywhere not suited for a
glass bottle. 1 ltr. California
2008 Ravenswood Zinfandel
Gold Medal
A California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the
premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas
and flavors of raspberries, blueberries,
black cherries, and spicy hints of oak.
Well balanced, with supple tannins and a
long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a
pleasure to drink now and will be for the
next couple of years. 750 ml. California
Loredona Viognier
Gold Medal
Offers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee
and guava — complemented by crisp,
refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus
flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp
acidity and mineral notes. This elegant
Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of
dishes. 750 ml. Monterey We’ve got all of these award winners on
our shelves and on sale for the next two
months, so we hope you’ll stop by and
check them out. You might find your new
favorite!
Dont be intimidated by the thought of
entertaining! Whether you’re having an
intimate gathering or an all-out bash,
Nugget Markets is always here to help
you make your party a success. Some
people shy away from the thought of
entertaining large parties in their homes,
but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is
some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the
biggest unknowns when planning a party.
How much wine should I get? How many
appetizers do people expect? It’s
important to keep guests satisfied, but at
the same time, not to overdo it and blow
your budget. Follow this handy guide for
help with some frequently asked
questions:How much wine do I need?
Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses
of wine. If you order a whole case of wine
(that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to
have enough for one glass of wine each
for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will
want to partake in more than just one
glass, so please plan accordingly. Also,
make sure to ask our wine stewards about
discount that may be available for large
wine purchases, and remember, when you
buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits,
you will receive a 10% discount (some
exclusions may apply, see a wine steward
for details).
How should I serve cheese to my
guests?Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment
to a well-selected array of wines, and
Nugget Markets cheese specialists are
always happy to help you make your
selections. When preparing a cheese
board, always start with a cheese-friendly
surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a
general guideline, when buying cheese
for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per
person per cheese.
Cheeses are best served in odd numbers
(arranged according to flavor) with a
common theme, like country of origin or
type. Always use separate knives for each
cheese and remember to serve them at
room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors
doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per
appetizer if you are serving them as a start
to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in
this format, you will not need to serve
more than one or two options. Heavy hors
doeuvres parties require quite a bit more.
Traditionally, guests will consume a
minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2
hour period.
In addition to providing individual-
sized nibbles, it is always a good idea to
consider including one or two composed
platters such as fruit, grilled vegetables,
spinach dip or hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Shannon Rock has been known to travel
the globe in search of the next great wine
that she can share with Nugget Markets
guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina
and Spain," in pursuit of great wine,
Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all
the different wine-growing regions; in
Argentina, I learned about the families that
produce wine, and the different grape
varietals produced there; and in Spain, I
learned about the unique styles of wine that
come from that country." Spain holds a
particularly special place in Shannon's
heart — she says her favorite food and
wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As
for her favorite wine on its own, it's a
three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and
Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of
these varietals are completely different and
have their own uniqueness about them."
Next time you're shopping in the wine
department at El Dorado Hills, stop and
talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If
you're lucky, he might give you a few tips
about ... basketball? "Not many guests
know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship
to play basketball at the University of
Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John
says. After his basketball career, he even
stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil
pipeline! These days, his focus is more on
wine — though don't ask him what his
favorite wine is, because he simply can't
choose. "I like all of them!" he says.
Similarly, he says his favorite food is
"everything."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville
Nugget Market
Having been in the wine-buying business
for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville
Wine Steward Brian Madden says that
when he initially started working with
wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I
need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon
Bay needed someone to run the liquor
department. My interest grew from the
job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has
traveled all over the world pursuing his
passion for grapes, including to Spain,
Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina.
"Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite
place to travel for the wine industry," Brian
says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent
grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it
for the depth of dark fruits, layering,
balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis
(Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward
Michael Taylor any questions you might
have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is
always willing to help, and his extensive
knowledge of wines will certainly come in
handy. Michael boasts expert knowledge in
both areas, because before coming to
Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working
Next time you're shopping in the wine
department at El Dorado Hills, stop and
talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If
you're lucky, he might give you a few
tips about ... basketball? "Not many
guests know it, but I received a 2-year
scholarship to play basketball at the
University of Alaska, Fairbanks in the
early '70s," John says. After his
basketball career, he even stayed on to
work on an Alaskan oil pipeline! These
days, his focus is more on wine —
though don't ask him what his favorite
wine is, because he simply can't choose.
"I like all of them!" he says. Similarly, he
says his favorite food is "everything." It
may come as no surprise, then, that Steve
says one of his favorite things is "a cold
beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis
(Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward
Michael Taylor any questions you might
have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He
is always willing to help, and his
extensive knowledge of wines will
certainly come in handy. Michael boasts
an expert knowledge.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in
both areas, because before coming to
Nugget Market, he spent 17 years
working as a chef. After becoming
involved with winemaker dinners and
selecting wines for his restaurant's wine
list, Michael made the transition to wine
steward, and he is currently working on
completing his certification as a Master
Sommelier. Michael has also traveled
extensively to the world's major
food-and-wine regions, including the
Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region
in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire
Valley in France.
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West
Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling,
West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom
Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is
probably the most mis-understood grape
varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a
fan of Riesling, having traveled to
Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state
to learn more about the varietal.
"Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas
and flavors, and they pair very well with
many foods."
Of course, Tom is a fan of many other
wine varietals as well, including Pinot
Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet
Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite
Sirah (for its accessibility). A
Sacramento native, Tom has lived all
across the Golden state, but he returned
to his hometown of Sacramento, where
he currently resides with his wife and
three children.
The Wine Press • Second Edition, 2011 • Nugget Markets
San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
Gold Medal Winners
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition:
Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual function. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
With all these award winners on our stores’ shelves for the next two months, we know that you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old favorite or try something new — you can’t go wrong with any of these reccommendations. Ask a Wine Steward in our stores if you have any questions. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here to help you! Next time you’re in the wine aisle in one of our stores struggling to figure out which wine to pair with a steak or a light salad, speak with one of our knowledgable wine stewards. They are always happy to help you make your selection.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward, Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy living outside. Maybe that's why his favorite product from Nugget's adult beverage department is Knob Creek Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha says. Keeping with the outdoor theme, Misha, who has been a Nugget associate since 2003, says that his favorite food is "barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha also says he adheres to the wisdom passed down to us by one of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine Stewards Help Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s finest from thelargest competition of American wines in the world
Ask one of these experts next time you need assistance in the wine aisle
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
Round Hill ChardonnayGold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate, it has lively acidity and a round, creamy texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot, nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml. California
Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine than a regular 750ml bottle),
it is in probably the most environmen-tally friendly wine package we have. Great for camping or anywhere not suited for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California
2008 Ravenswood ZinfandelGold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas and flavors of raspberries, blueberries, black cherries, and spicy hints of oak. Well balanced, with supple tannins and a long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a pleasure to drink now and will be for the next couple of years. 750 ml. California
Loredona Viognier Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee and guava — complemented by crisp, refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp acidity and mineral notes. This elegant Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of dishes. 750 ml. Monterey
With all these award winners on our stores’ shelves for the next two months, we know that you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old favorite or try something new.
Dont be intimidated by the thought of entertaining! Whether you’re having an intimate gathering or an all-out bash, Nugget Markets is always here to help you make your party a success. Some people shy away from the thought of entertaining large parties in their homes, but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the biggest unknowns when planning a party. How much wine should I get? How many appetizers do people expect? It’s important to keep guests satisfied, but at the same time, not to overdo it and blow your budget. Follow this handy guide for help with some frequently asked questions:
How much wine do I need?Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses of wine. If you order a whole case of wine (that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to have enough for one glass of wine each for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will want to partake in more than just one glass, so please plan accordingly. Also, make sure to ask our wine stewards about discount that may be available for large wine purchases, and remember, when you buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits, you will receive a 10% discount (some exclusions may apply, see a wine steward for details).
How should I serve cheese to my guests?
Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment to a well-selected array of wines, and Nugget Markets cheese specialists are always happy to help you make your selections. When preparing a cheese board, always start with a cheese-friendly surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a general guideline, when buying cheese for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per person per cheese.
Cheeses are best served in odd numbers (arranged according to flavor) with a common theme, like country of origin or type. Always use separate knives for each cheese and remember to serve them at room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per appetizer if you are serving them as a start to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in this format, you will not need to serve more than one or two options. Heavy hors doeuvres parties require quite a bit more. Traditionally, guests will consume a minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2 hour period.
In addition to providing individual-sized nibbles, it is always a good idea to consider including one or two composed platters such as fruit, grilled vegetables, spinach dip or hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Next time you're shopping in the wine department at El Dorado Hills, stop and talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If you're lucky, he might give you a few tips about ... basketball? "Not many guests know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship to play basketball at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John says. After his basketball career, he even stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil pipeline! These days, his focus is more on wine — though don't ask him what his favorite wine is, because he simply can't choose. "I like all of them!" he says. Similarly, he says his favorite food is "everything."
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain," in pursuit of great wine, Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all the different wine-growing regions; in Argentina, I learned about the families that produce wine, and the different grape varietals produced there; and in Spain, I learned about the unique styles of wine that come from that country." Spain holds a particularly special place in Shannon's heart — she says her favorite food and wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As for her favorite wine on its own, it's a three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of these varietals are completely different and have their own uniqueness about them."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville Nugget Market
Having been in the wine-buying business for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville Wine Steward Brian Madden says that when he initially started working with wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon Bay needed someone to run the liquor department. My interest grew from the job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has traveled all over the world pursuing his passion for grapes, including to Spain, Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina. "Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite place to travel for the wine industry," Brian says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it for the depth of dark fruits, layering, balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working as a chef. After becoming involved with winemaker dinners and selecting wines for his restaurant's wine list, Michael made the transition to wine steward, and he is currently working on completing his certification as a Master Sommelier. Michael has also traveled extensively to the world's major food-and-wine regions, including the Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire Valley in France.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain,” she says.
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition:
Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual function. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
These wines are all award winners, and you can’t go wrong with any of these recommendations. We know it can be daunting to pick out the perfect wine, so if you’re still having trouble deciding, keep in mind that you can always ask a Wine Steward in our stores if you have any questions. We know you’ll find something that you love. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here to help you! Next time you’re in the wine aisle in one of our stores struggling to figure out which wine to pair with a steak or a light salad, speak with one of our knowledgable wine stewards. They are always happy to help you make your selection.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward, Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy living outside. Maybe that's why his favorite product from Nugget's adult beverage department is Knob Creek Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha says. Keeping with the outdoor theme, Misha, who has been a Nugget associate since 2003, says that his favorite food is "barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha also says he adheres to the wisdom passed down to us by one of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine Stewards Help Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s finest from thelargest competition of American wines in the world
Ask one of these experts next time you need assistance in the wine aisle
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
Round Hill ChardonnayGold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate, it has lively acidity and a round, creamy texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot, nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml. California
Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine than a regular 750ml bottle),
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
it is in probably the most environmentally friendly wine package we have. Great for camping or anywhere not suited for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California
2008 Ravenswood ZinfandelGold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas and flavors of raspberries, blueberries, black cherries, and spicy hints of oak. Well balanced, with supple tannins and a long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a pleasure to drink now and will be for the next couple of years. 750 ml. California
Loredona Viognier Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee and guava — complemented by crisp, refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp acidity and mineral notes. This elegant Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of dishes. 750 ml. Monterey
We’ve got all of these award winners on our shelves and on sale for the next two months, so we hope you’ll stop by and check them out. You might find your new favorite!
Dont be intimidated by the thought of entertaining! Whether you’re having an intimate gathering or an all-out bash, Nugget Markets is always here to help you make your party a success. Some people shy away from the thought of entertaining large parties in their homes, but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the biggest unknowns when planning a party. How much wine should I get? How many appetizers do people expect? It’s important to keep guests satisfied, but at the same time, not to overdo it and blow your budget. Follow this handy guide for help with some frequently asked questions:
How much wine do I need?Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses of wine. If you order a whole case of wine (that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to have enough for one glass of wine each for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will want to partake in more than just one glass, so please plan accordingly. Also, make sure to ask our wine stewards about discount that may be available for large wine purchases, and remember, when you buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits, you will receive a 10% discount (some exclusions may apply, see a wine steward for details).
How should I serve cheese to my guests?
Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment to a well-selected array of wines, and Nugget Markets cheese specialists are always happy to help you make your selections. When preparing a cheese board, always start with a cheese-friendly surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a general guideline, when buying cheese for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per person per cheese.
Cheeses are best served in odd numbers (arranged according to flavor) with a common theme, like country of origin or type. Always use separate knives for each cheese and remember to serve them at room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per appetizer if you are serving them as a start to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in this format, you will not need to serve more than one or two options. Heavy hors doeuvres parties require quite a bit more. Traditionally, guests will consume a minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2 hour period.
In addition to providing individual-sized nibbles, it is always a good idea to consider including one or two composed platters such as fruit, grilled vegetables, spinach dip or hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain," in pursuit of great wine, Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all the different wine-growing regions; in Argentina, I learned about the families that produce wine, and the different grape varietals produced there; and in Spain, I learned about the unique styles of wine that come from that country." Spain holds a particularly special place in Shannon's heart — she says her favorite food and wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As for her favorite wine on its own, it's a three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of these varietals are completely different and have their own uniqueness about them."
Next time you're shopping in the wine department at El Dorado Hills, stop and talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If you're lucky, he might give you a few tips about ... basketball? "Not many guests know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship to play basketball at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John says. After his basketball career, he even stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil pipeline! These days, his focus is more on wine — though don't ask him what his favorite wine is, because he simply can't choose. "I like all of them!" he says. Similarly, he says his favorite food is "everything."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville Nugget Market
Having been in the wine-buying business for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville Wine Steward Brian Madden says that when he initially started working with wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon Bay needed someone to run the liquor department. My interest grew from the job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has traveled all over the world pursuing his passion for grapes, including to Spain, Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina. "Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite place to travel for the wine industry," Brian says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it for the depth of dark fruits, layering, balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy. Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working as a chef. After becoming involved with winemaker dinners and selecting wines for his restaurant's wine list, Michael made the transition to wine steward, and he is currently working on completing his certification as a Master Sommelier. Michael has also traveled extensively to the world's major food-and-wine regions, including the Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire Valley in France.
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods."
Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the Golden state, but he returned to his hometown of Sacramento, where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Every summer we base an issue of
the Wine Press on winners from the
California State Fair. This wine fair is
a very substantial tasting, where
nearly 3,000 California wines are
judged. However, for this issue we
decided to glean winners from an even
larger fair involving wines from all
over America — the San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale
Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this
event has really evolved over the
years. In its early stages, the
competition solely included wines
from northern Sonoma and southern
Mendocino Counties. It later
expanded to include wines from all
wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and
Lake Counties — then the entire state,
and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition has now
grown to become the largest
competition of American wines in the
world. From the 3,800 wines that were
entered in 2007, it has now risen to a
staggering 4,913 entries in 2010.
Today, 60 prestigious experts from
across America’s media, trade,
hospitality and education industries
join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from
California wineries. While there was
limited availability for most of the
out-of-state winners, we fortunately
had no trouble tracking down
outstanding Californian wines and
great values. Many of these winners
were already on our shelves, while
others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the
competition: Hahn SLH Pinot Noir
Double Gold Medal
"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At
$19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank
Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the
best value in Moscato. If you like your
wines with a touch of sweetness and a
little lower alcohol, this varietal is for
you. 750 ml. California Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free
Range RedGold Medal — Pinot Grigio and
Free Range RedNeed a white and a red for a big
shindig and don't know what to buy?
These would be perfect as BBQ wines
or for any casual function. The Pinot
Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing,
whereas the red blend is light to
medium bodied, with nice red berry
fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux) 2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet
SauvignonGold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double
Gold. It is one of three wines we are
featuring from the Hahn Winery — all
are values in their price bracket. This
is the lower tier in price, but not
quality; it has solid dark berry fruit
concentration and enough structure to
let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon.
750 ml. CaliforniaWith all these award winners on our
stores’ shelves for the next two
months, we know that you’re
guaranteed to find something you’ll
enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old
favorite or try something new — you
can’t go wrong with any of these
reccommendations. Ask a Wine
Steward in our stores if you have any
questions. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the
Wine Press on winners from the California
State Fair. This wine fair is a very
substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000
California wines are judged. However, for
this issue we decided to glean winners from
an even larger fair involving wines from all
over America — the San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus
Fair Wine Competition, this event has
really evolved over the years. In its early
stages, the competition solely included
wines from northern Sonoma and southern
Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to
include wines from all wineries in Sonoma,
Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the
entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle
Wine Competition has now grown to
become the largest competition of
American wines in the world. From the
3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it
has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries
in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from
across America’s media, trade, hospitality
and education industries join together to
judge these wines.Our picks for this issue all hail from
California wineries. While there was
limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here
to help you! Next time you’re in the wine
aisle in one of our stores struggling to
figure out which wine to pair with a steak
or a light salad, speak with one of our
knowledgable wine stewards. They are
always happy to help you make your
selection.Steve Graham, Wine Steward,
Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not
always have been an expert in fine wine
and cuisine, but he has long been employed
in the food industry. Take his first job: "I
was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the
newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says.
Today, Steve has graduated from fries to
wines, completing his first-level training
from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and
also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine
designation. Steve's other interests include
opera, soccer, and especially bicycling —
on his off time, he has volunteered at the
Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a
Certified Bike Technician from the United
Bicycle Institute. It may come as no
surprise, then, that Steve says one of his
favorite things is "a cold beer after a long,
hard bicycle ride."Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West
Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling,
West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom
Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is
probably the most mis-understood grape
varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan,
having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in
Washington state to learn more about the
varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of
aromas and flavors, and they pair very well
with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan
of many other wine varietals as well,
including Pinot Noir (for its complexity),
Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and
Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A
Sacramento native, Tom has lived all
across the state, but returned to his
hometown where he currently resides with
his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward,
Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward
Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy
living outside. Maybe that's why his
favorite product from Nugget's adult
beverage department is Knob Creek
Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're
camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha
says. Keeping with the outdoor theme,
Misha, who has been a Nugget associate
since 2003, says that his favorite food is
"barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky
flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha
also says he adheres to the wisdom passed
down to us by one of our founding fathers,
Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine Stewards Help Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s
finest from thelargest competition
of American wines in
the world
Ask one of these experts next time you need assistance in the wine aisle
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had
no trouble tracking down outstanding
Californian wines and great values. Many
of these winners were already on our
shelves, while others are welcome
newcomers.Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot Noir
Double Gold Medal
"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it
is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml.
Santa Lucia Highlands Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best
value in Moscato. If you like your wines
with a touch of sweetness and a little lower
alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml.
California Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range
RedGold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free
Range RedNeed a white and a red for a big shindig
and don't know what to buy? These would
be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual
unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and
refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red
berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux) 2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet
SauvignonGold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one
of three wines we are featuring from the
Hahn Winery — all are values in their price
bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but
not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit
concentration and enough structure to let
you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml.
California Round Hill Chardonnay
Gold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with
cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate,
it has lively acidity and a round, creamy
texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot,
nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky
finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml.
California Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet
SauvignonGold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine
than a regular 750ml bottle),
it is in probably the most environmen-
tally friendly wine package we have.
Great for camping or anywhere not suited
for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California 2008 Ravenswood Zinfandel
Gold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the
premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas
and flavors of raspberries, blueberries,
black cherries, and spicy hints of oak.
Well balanced, with supple tannins and a
long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a
pleasure to drink now and will be for the
next couple of years. 750 ml. California Loredona Viognier
Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee
and guava — complemented by crisp,
refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus
flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp
acidity and mineral notes. This elegant
Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of
dishes. 750 ml. Monterey With all these award winners on our
stores’ shelves for the next two months,
we know that you’re guaranteed to find
something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle
of an old favorite or try something new.
Dont be intimidated by the thought of
entertaining! Whether you’re having an
intimate gathering or an all-out bash,
Nugget Markets is always here to help
you make your party a success. Some
people shy away from the thought of
entertaining large parties in their homes,
but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is
some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the
biggest unknowns when planning a party.
How much wine should I get? How many
appetizers do people expect? It’s
important to keep guests satisfied, but at
the same time, not to overdo it and blow
your budget. Follow this handy guide for
help with some frequently asked
questions:How much wine do I need?
Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses
of wine. If you order a whole case of wine
(that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to
have enough for one glass of wine each
for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will
want to partake in more than just one
glass, so please plan accordingly. Also,
make sure to ask our wine stewards about
discount that may be available for large
wine purchases, and remember, when you
buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits,
you will receive a 10% discount (some
exclusions may apply, see a wine steward
for details). How should I serve cheese to my
guests?Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment
to a well-selected array of wines, and
Nugget Markets cheese specialists are
always happy to help you make your
selections. When preparing a cheese
board, always start with a cheese-friendly
surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a
general guideline, when buying cheese
for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per
person per cheese.Cheeses are best served in odd numbers
(arranged according to flavor) with a
common theme, like country of origin or
type. Always use separate knives for each
cheese and remember to serve them at
room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors
doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per
appetizer if you are serving them as a start
to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in
this format, you will not need to serve
more than one or two options. Heavy hors
doeuvres parties require quite a bit more.
Traditionally, guests will consume a
minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2
hour period. In addition to providing
individual-sized nibbles, it is always a
good idea to consider including one or
two composed platters such as fruit,
grilled vegetables, spinach dip or
hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Next time you're shopping in the wine
department at El Dorado Hills, stop and
talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If
you're lucky, he might give you a few tips
about ... basketball? "Not many guests
know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship
to play basketball at the University of
Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John
says. After his basketball career, he even
stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil
pipeline! These days, his focus is more on
wine — though don't ask him what his
favorite wine is, because he simply can't
choose. "I like all of them!" he says.
Similarly, he says his favorite food is
"everything." Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove
Nugget MarketShannon Rock has been known to travel
the globe in search of the next great wine
that she can share with Nugget Markets
guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina
and Spain," in pursuit of great wine,
Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all
the different wine-growing regions; in
Argentina, I learned about the families that
produce wine, and the different grape
varietals produced there; and in Spain, I
learned about the unique styles of wine that
come from that country." Spain holds a
particularly special place in Shannon's
heart — she says her favorite food and
wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As
for her favorite wine on its own, it's a
three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and
Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of
these varietals are completely different and
have their own uniqueness about them."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville
Nugget MarketHaving been in the wine-buying business
for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville
Wine Steward Brian Madden says that
when he initially started working with
wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I
need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon
Bay needed someone to run the liquor
department. My interest grew from the
job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has
traveled all over the world pursuing his
passion for grapes, including to Spain,
Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina.
"Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite
place to travel for the wine industry," Brian
says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent
grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it
for the depth of dark fruits, layering,
balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis
(Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward
Michael Taylor any questions you might
have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is
always willing to help, and his extensive
knowledge of wines will certainly come in
handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in
both areas, because before coming to
Nugget Market, he spent 17 years
working as a chef. After becoming
involved with winemaker dinners and
selecting wines for his restaurant's wine
list, Michael made the transition to wine
steward, and he is currently working on
completing his certification as a Master
Sommelier. Michael has also traveled
extensively to the world's major
food-and-wine regions, including the
Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region
in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire
Valley in France.Steve Graham, Wine Steward,
Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget
MarketWine Steward Steve Graham may not
always have been an expert in fine wine
and cuisine, but he has long been
employed in the food industry. Take his
first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at
Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise
Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has
graduated from fries to wines,
completing his first-level training from
the Court of Master Sommeliers, and
also attaining a Certified Specialist of
Wine designation. Steve's other interests
include opera, soccer, and especially
bicycling — on his off time, he has
volunteered at the Sacramento Bike
Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike
Technician from the United Bicycle
Institute. It may come as no surprise,
then, that Steve says one of his favorite
things is "a cold beer after a long, hard
bicycle ride." Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West
Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling,
West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom
Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is
probably the most mis-understood grape
varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a
fan, having traveled to Chateau St.
Michelle in Washington state to learn
more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer
a wide range of aromas and flavors, and
they pair very well with many foods." Of
course, Tom is a fan of many other wine
varietals as well, including Pinot Noir
(for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon
(for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its
accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom
has lived all across the state, but returned
to his hometown where he currently
resides with his wife and three children.
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk
Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to
travel the globe in search of the next
great wine that she can share with
Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled
to Italy, Argentina and Spain,” she says.
Director of Adult Beverages
Reward Yourself With Award Winners!The Golden State’s Finest from the
Largest Competition of American Wines in the World
Hank Beal
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chroni-cle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expand-ed to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Most of our picks for this issue hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.You’re guaranteed to find something you’ll enjoy. Cheers!
2009 Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal
This wine has it all. Deep ruby in color,
bright red fruit dominates the nose and
palate, along with the black fruit flavors
characteristic of Santa Lucia Highlands
Pinot Noir. Notes of cherry cola, dried
herbs and minerals are balanced by
cool-climate acidity and velvety tannins.
“It is exceptional at $30 at $19.99 it is
mind blowing!’This is the best Pinot Noir I
have tasted this year." — Hank Beal
Santa Lucia Highlands
All prices subject to availablity, while supplies last.
$101999
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition:
Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual function. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
With all these award winners on our stores’ shelves for the next two months, we know that you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old favorite or try something new — you can’t go wrong with any of these reccommendations. Ask a Wine Steward in our stores if you have any questions. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here to help you! Next time you’re in the wine aisle in one of our stores struggling to figure out which wine to pair with a steak or a light salad, speak with one of our knowledgable wine stewards. They are always happy to help you make your selection.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward, Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy living outside. Maybe that's why his favorite product from Nugget's adult beverage department is Knob Creek Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha says. Keeping with the outdoor theme, Misha, who has been a Nugget associate since 2003, says that his favorite food is "barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha also says he adheres to the wisdom passed down to us by one of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine Stewards Help Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s finest from thelargest competition of American wines in the world
Ask one of these experts next time you need assistance in the wine aisle
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
Round Hill ChardonnayGold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate, it has lively acidity and a round, creamy texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot, nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml. California
Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine than a regular 750ml bottle),
it is in probably the most environmen-tally friendly wine package we have. Great for camping or anywhere not suited for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California
2008 Ravenswood ZinfandelGold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas and flavors of raspberries, blueberries, black cherries, and spicy hints of oak. Well balanced, with supple tannins and a long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a pleasure to drink now and will be for the next couple of years. 750 ml. California
Loredona Viognier Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee and guava — complemented by crisp, refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp acidity and mineral notes. This elegant Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of dishes. 750 ml. Monterey
With all these award winners on our stores’ shelves for the next two months, we know that you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old favorite or try something new.
Dont be intimidated by the thought of entertaining! Whether you’re having an intimate gathering or an all-out bash, Nugget Markets is always here to help you make your party a success. Some people shy away from the thought of entertaining large parties in their homes, but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the biggest unknowns when planning a party. How much wine should I get? How many appetizers do people expect? It’s important to keep guests satisfied, but at the same time, not to overdo it and blow your budget. Follow this handy guide for help with some frequently asked questions:
How much wine do I need?Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses of wine. If you order a whole case of wine (that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to have enough for one glass of wine each for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will want to partake in more than just one glass, so please plan accordingly. Also, make sure to ask our wine stewards about discount that may be available for large wine purchases, and remember, when you buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits, you will receive a 10% discount (some exclusions may apply, see a wine steward for details).
How should I serve cheese to my guests?
Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment to a well-selected array of wines, and Nugget Markets cheese specialists are always happy to help you make your selections. When preparing a cheese board, always start with a cheese-friendly surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a general guideline, when buying cheese for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per person per cheese.
Cheeses are best served in odd numbers (arranged according to flavor) with a common theme, like country of origin or type. Always use separate knives for each cheese and remember to serve them at room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per appetizer if you are serving them as a start to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in this format, you will not need to serve more than one or two options. Heavy hors doeuvres parties require quite a bit more. Traditionally, guests will consume a minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2 hour period.
In addition to providing individual-sized nibbles, it is always a good idea to consider including one or two composed platters such as fruit, grilled vegetables, spinach dip or hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Next time you're shopping in the wine department at El Dorado Hills, stop and talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If you're lucky, he might give you a few tips about ... basketball? "Not many guests know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship to play basketball at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John says. After his basketball career, he even stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil pipeline! These days, his focus is more on wine — though don't ask him what his favorite wine is, because he simply can't choose. "I like all of them!" he says. Similarly, he says his favorite food is "everything."
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain," in pursuit of great wine, Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all the different wine-growing regions; in Argentina, I learned about the families that produce wine, and the different grape varietals produced there; and in Spain, I learned about the unique styles of wine that come from that country." Spain holds a particularly special place in Shannon's heart — she says her favorite food and wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As for her favorite wine on its own, it's a three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of these varietals are completely different and have their own uniqueness about them."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville Nugget Market
Having been in the wine-buying business for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville Wine Steward Brian Madden says that when he initially started working with wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon Bay needed someone to run the liquor department. My interest grew from the job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has traveled all over the world pursuing his passion for grapes, including to Spain, Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina. "Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite place to travel for the wine industry," Brian says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it for the depth of dark fruits, layering, balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working as a chef. After becoming involved with winemaker dinners and selecting wines for his restaurant's wine list, Michael made the transition to wine steward, and he is currently working on completing his certification as a Master Sommelier. Michael has also traveled extensively to the world's major food-and-wine regions, including the Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire Valley in France.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain,” she says.
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition:
Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual function. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
These wines are all award winners, and you can’t go wrong with any of these recommendations. We know it can be daunting to pick out the perfect wine, so if you’re still having trouble deciding, keep in mind that you can always ask a Wine Steward in our stores if you have any questions. We know you’ll find something that you love. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here to help you! Next time you’re in the wine aisle in one of our stores struggling to figure out which wine to pair with a steak or a light salad, speak with one of our knowledgable wine stewards. They are always happy to help you make your selection.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward, Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy living outside. Maybe that's why his favorite product from Nugget's adult beverage department is Knob Creek Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha says. Keeping with the outdoor theme, Misha, who has been a Nugget associate since 2003, says that his favorite food is "barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha also says he adheres to the wisdom passed down to us by one of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine’s Friendly Faces Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s finest from thelargest competition of American wines in the world
Get to know Nugget Markets’ wine stewards, who are always available to help
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
Round Hill ChardonnayGold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate, it has lively acidity and a round, creamy texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot, nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml. California
Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine than a regular 750ml bottle),
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
it is in probably the most environmentally friendly wine package we have. Great for camping or anywhere not suited for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California
2008 Ravenswood ZinfandelGold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas and flavors of raspberries, blueberries, black cherries, and spicy hints of oak. Well balanced, with supple tannins and a long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a pleasure to drink now and will be for the next couple of years. 750 ml. California
Loredona Viognier Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee and guava — complemented by crisp, refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp acidity and mineral notes. This elegant Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of dishes. 750 ml. Monterey
We’ve got all of these award winners on our shelves and on sale for the next two months, so we hope you’ll stop by and check them out. You might find your new favorite!
Dont be intimidated by the thought of entertaining! Whether you’re having an intimate gathering or an all-out bash, Nugget Markets is always here to help you make your party a success. Some people shy away from the thought of entertaining large parties in their homes, but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the biggest unknowns when planning a party. How much wine should I get? How many appetizers do people expect? It’s important to keep guests satisfied, but at the same time, not to overdo it and blow your budget. Follow this handy guide for help with some frequently asked questions:
How much wine do I need?Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses of wine. If you order a whole case of wine (that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to have enough for one glass of wine each for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will want to partake in more than just one glass, so please plan accordingly. Also, make sure to ask our wine stewards about discount that may be available for large wine purchases, and remember, when you buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits, you will receive a 10% discount (some exclusions may apply, see a wine steward for details).
How should I serve cheese to my guests?
Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment to a well-selected array of wines, and Nugget Markets cheese specialists are always happy to help you make your selections. When preparing a cheese board, always start with a cheese-friendly surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a general guideline, when buying cheese for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per person per cheese.
Cheeses are best served in odd numbers (arranged according to flavor) with a common theme, like country of origin or type. Always use separate knives for each cheese and remember to serve them at room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per appetizer if you are serving them as a start to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in this format, you will not need to serve more than one or two options. Heavy hors doeuvres parties require quite a bit more. Traditionally, guests will consume a minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2 hour period.
In addition to providing individual-sized nibbles, it is always a good idea to consider including one or two composed platters such as fruit, grilled vegetables, spinach dip or hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain," in pursuit of great wine, Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all the different wine-growing regions; in Argentina, I learned about the families that produce wine, and the different grape varietals produced there; and in Spain, I learned about the unique styles of wine that come from that country." Spain holds a particularly special place in Shannon's heart — she says her favorite food and wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As for her favorite wine on its own, it's a three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of these varietals are completely different and have their own uniqueness about them."
Next time you're shopping in the wine department at El Dorado Hills, stop and talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If you're lucky, he might give you a few tips about ... basketball? "Not many guests know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship to play basketball at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John says. After his basketball career, he even stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil pipeline! These days, his focus is more on wine — though don't ask him what his favorite wine is, because he simply can't choose. "I like all of them!" he says. Similarly, he says his favorite food is "everything."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville Nugget Market
Having been in the wine-buying business for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville Wine Steward Brian Madden says that when he initially started working with wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon Bay needed someone to run the liquor department. My interest grew from the job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has traveled all over the world pursuing his passion for grapes, including to Spain, Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina. "Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite place to travel for the wine industry," Brian says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it for the depth of dark fruits, layering, balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy. Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working as a chef. After becoming involved with winemaker dinners and selecting wines for his restaurant's wine list, Michael made the transition to wine steward, and he is currently working on completing his certification as a Master Sommelier. Michael has also traveled extensively to the world's major food-and-wine regions, including the Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire Valley in France.
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods."
Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the Golden state, but he returned to his hometown of Sacramento, where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Every summer we base an issue of
the Wine Press on winners from the
California State Fair. This wine fair is
a very substantial tasting, where
nearly 3,000 California wines are
judged. However, for this issue we
decided to glean winners from an even
larger fair involving wines from all
over America — the San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale
Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this
event has really evolved over the
years. In its early stages, the
competition solely included wines
from northern Sonoma and southern
Mendocino Counties. It later
expanded to include wines from all
wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and
Lake Counties — then the entire state,
and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition has now
grown to become the largest
competition of American wines in the
world. From the 3,800 wines that were
entered in 2007, it has now risen to a
staggering 4,913 entries in 2010.
Today, 60 prestigious experts from
across America’s media, trade,
hospitality and education industries
join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from
California wineries. While there was
limited availability for most of the
out-of-state winners, we fortunately
had no trouble tracking down
outstanding Californian wines and
great values. Many of these winners
were already on our shelves, while
others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the
competition: Hahn SLH Pinot Noir
Double Gold Medal
"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At
$19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank
Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the
best value in Moscato. If you like your
wines with a touch of sweetness and a
little lower alcohol, this varietal is for
you. 750 ml. California Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free
Range RedGold Medal — Pinot Grigio and
Free Range RedNeed a white and a red for a big
shindig and don't know what to buy?
These would be perfect as BBQ wines
or for any casual function. The Pinot
Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing,
whereas the red blend is light to
medium bodied, with nice red berry
fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux) 2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet
SauvignonGold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double
Gold. It is one of three wines we are
featuring from the Hahn Winery — all
are values in their price bracket. This
is the lower tier in price, but not
quality; it has solid dark berry fruit
concentration and enough structure to
let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon.
750 ml. CaliforniaWith all these award winners on our
stores’ shelves for the next two
months, we know that you’re
guaranteed to find something you’ll
enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old
favorite or try something new — you
can’t go wrong with any of these
reccommendations. Ask a Wine
Steward in our stores if you have any
questions. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the
Wine Press on winners from the California
State Fair. This wine fair is a very
substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000
California wines are judged. However, for
this issue we decided to glean winners from
an even larger fair involving wines from all
over America — the San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus
Fair Wine Competition, this event has
really evolved over the years. In its early
stages, the competition solely included
wines from northern Sonoma and southern
Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to
include wines from all wineries in Sonoma,
Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the
entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle
Wine Competition has now grown to
become the largest competition of
American wines in the world. From the
3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it
has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries
in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from
across America’s media, trade, hospitality
and education industries join together to
judge these wines.Our picks for this issue all hail from
California wineries. While there was
limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here
to help you! Next time you’re in the wine
aisle in one of our stores struggling to
figure out which wine to pair with a steak
or a light salad, speak with one of our
knowledgable wine stewards. They are
always happy to help you make your
selection.Steve Graham, Wine Steward,
Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not
always have been an expert in fine wine
and cuisine, but he has long been employed
in the food industry. Take his first job: "I
was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the
newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says.
Today, Steve has graduated from fries to
wines, completing his first-level training
from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and
also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine
designation. Steve's other interests include
opera, soccer, and especially bicycling —
on his off time, he has volunteered at the
Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a
Certified Bike Technician from the United
Bicycle Institute. It may come as no
surprise, then, that Steve says one of his
favorite things is "a cold beer after a long,
hard bicycle ride."Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West
Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling,
West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom
Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is
probably the most mis-understood grape
varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan,
having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in
Washington state to learn more about the
varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of
aromas and flavors, and they pair very well
with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan
of many other wine varietals as well,
including Pinot Noir (for its complexity),
Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and
Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A
Sacramento native, Tom has lived all
across the state, but returned to his
hometown where he currently resides with
his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward,
Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward
Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy
living outside. Maybe that's why his
favorite product from Nugget's adult
beverage department is Knob Creek
Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're
camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha
says. Keeping with the outdoor theme,
Misha, who has been a Nugget associate
since 2003, says that his favorite food is
"barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky
flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha
also says he adheres to the wisdom passed
down to us by one of our founding fathers,
Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine Stewards Help Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s
finest from thelargest competition
of American wines in
the world
Ask one of these experts next time you need assistance in the wine aisle
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had
no trouble tracking down outstanding
Californian wines and great values. Many
of these winners were already on our
shelves, while others are welcome
newcomers.Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot Noir
Double Gold Medal
"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it
is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml.
Santa Lucia Highlands Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best
value in Moscato. If you like your wines
with a touch of sweetness and a little lower
alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml.
California Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range
RedGold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free
Range RedNeed a white and a red for a big shindig
and don't know what to buy? These would
be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual
unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and
refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red
berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux) 2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet
SauvignonGold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one
of three wines we are featuring from the
Hahn Winery — all are values in their price
bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but
not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit
concentration and enough structure to let
you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml.
California Round Hill Chardonnay
Gold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with
cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate,
it has lively acidity and a round, creamy
texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot,
nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky
finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml.
California Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet
SauvignonGold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine
than a regular 750ml bottle),
it is in probably the most environmen-
tally friendly wine package we have.
Great for camping or anywhere not suited
for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California 2008 Ravenswood Zinfandel
Gold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the
premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas
and flavors of raspberries, blueberries,
black cherries, and spicy hints of oak.
Well balanced, with supple tannins and a
long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a
pleasure to drink now and will be for the
next couple of years. 750 ml. California Loredona Viognier
Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee
and guava — complemented by crisp,
refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus
flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp
acidity and mineral notes. This elegant
Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of
dishes. 750 ml. Monterey With all these award winners on our
stores’ shelves for the next two months,
we know that you’re guaranteed to find
something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle
of an old favorite or try something new.
Dont be intimidated by the thought of
entertaining! Whether you’re having an
intimate gathering or an all-out bash,
Nugget Markets is always here to help
you make your party a success. Some
people shy away from the thought of
entertaining large parties in their homes,
but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is
some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the
biggest unknowns when planning a party.
How much wine should I get? How many
appetizers do people expect? It’s
important to keep guests satisfied, but at
the same time, not to overdo it and blow
your budget. Follow this handy guide for
help with some frequently asked
questions:How much wine do I need?
Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses
of wine. If you order a whole case of wine
(that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to
have enough for one glass of wine each
for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will
want to partake in more than just one
glass, so please plan accordingly. Also,
make sure to ask our wine stewards about
discount that may be available for large
wine purchases, and remember, when you
buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits,
you will receive a 10% discount (some
exclusions may apply, see a wine steward
for details). How should I serve cheese to my
guests?Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment
to a well-selected array of wines, and
Nugget Markets cheese specialists are
always happy to help you make your
selections. When preparing a cheese
board, always start with a cheese-friendly
surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a
general guideline, when buying cheese
for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per
person per cheese.Cheeses are best served in odd numbers
(arranged according to flavor) with a
common theme, like country of origin or
type. Always use separate knives for each
cheese and remember to serve them at
room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors
doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per
appetizer if you are serving them as a start
to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in
this format, you will not need to serve
more than one or two options. Heavy hors
doeuvres parties require quite a bit more.
Traditionally, guests will consume a
minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2
hour period. In addition to providing
individual-sized nibbles, it is always a
good idea to consider including one or
two composed platters such as fruit,
grilled vegetables, spinach dip or
hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Next time you're shopping in the wine
department at El Dorado Hills, stop and
talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If
you're lucky, he might give you a few tips
about ... basketball? "Not many guests
know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship
to play basketball at the University of
Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John
says. After his basketball career, he even
stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil
pipeline! These days, his focus is more on
wine — though don't ask him what his
favorite wine is, because he simply can't
choose. "I like all of them!" he says.
Similarly, he says his favorite food is
"everything." Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove
Nugget MarketShannon Rock has been known to travel
the globe in search of the next great wine
that she can share with Nugget Markets
guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina
and Spain," in pursuit of great wine,
Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all
the different wine-growing regions; in
Argentina, I learned about the families that
produce wine, and the different grape
varietals produced there; and in Spain, I
learned about the unique styles of wine that
come from that country." Spain holds a
particularly special place in Shannon's
heart — she says her favorite food and
wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As
for her favorite wine on its own, it's a
three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and
Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of
these varietals are completely different and
have their own uniqueness about them."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville
Nugget MarketHaving been in the wine-buying business
for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville
Wine Steward Brian Madden says that
when he initially started working with
wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I
need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon
Bay needed someone to run the liquor
department. My interest grew from the
job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has
traveled all over the world pursuing his
passion for grapes, including to Spain,
Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina.
"Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite
place to travel for the wine industry," Brian
says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent
grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it
for the depth of dark fruits, layering,
balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis
(Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward
Michael Taylor any questions you might
have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is
always willing to help, and his extensive
knowledge of wines will certainly come in
handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in
both areas, because before coming to
Nugget Market, he spent 17 years
working as a chef. After becoming
involved with winemaker dinners and
selecting wines for his restaurant's wine
list, Michael made the transition to wine
steward, and he is currently working on
completing his certification as a Master
Sommelier. Michael has also traveled
extensively to the world's major
food-and-wine regions, including the
Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region
in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire
Valley in France.Steve Graham, Wine Steward,
Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget
MarketWine Steward Steve Graham may not
always have been an expert in fine wine
and cuisine, but he has long been
employed in the food industry. Take his
first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at
Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise
Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has
graduated from fries to wines,
completing his first-level training from
the Court of Master Sommeliers, and
also attaining a Certified Specialist of
Wine designation. Steve's other interests
include opera, soccer, and especially
bicycling — on his off time, he has
volunteered at the Sacramento Bike
Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike
Technician from the United Bicycle
Institute. It may come as no surprise,
then, that Steve says one of his favorite
things is "a cold beer after a long, hard
bicycle ride." Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West
Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling,
West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom
Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is
probably the most mis-understood grape
varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a
fan, having traveled to Chateau St.
Michelle in Washington state to learn
more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer
a wide range of aromas and flavors, and
they pair very well with many foods." Of
course, Tom is a fan of many other wine
varietals as well, including Pinot Noir
(for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon
(for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its
accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom
has lived all across the state, but returned
to his hometown where he currently
resides with his wife and three children.
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk
Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to
travel the globe in search of the next
great wine that she can share with
Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled
to Italy, Argentina and Spain,” she says.
Gold Medal
Moscato is currently a very popular varietal, and
Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like
your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower
alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml.
California
$2599
Barefoot Moscato
$3599
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range RedGold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't
know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ
wines or for any casual function. The Pinot Grigio is light,
crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is light to
medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml.
California
Gold Medal
This is a repeat winner from last year when the 2008 won Double
Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn
Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in
price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and
enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml.
California$4699
Gold Medal
"This wine has straw-gold color,
with fruity aromas of apple and
apricot with cinnamon spice and
vanilla. On the palate, it has lively
acidity and a round, creamy
texture. Filled with flavors of dried
apricot, nectarine and barrel
spice with a soft, silky finish." —
Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml. California
Gold Medal and Best of Class
This is our only non-California
wine, but a long time favorite
that ALWAYS over delivers for
the price. Frankly if this was from
California it would probably be
higher priced. For a sub $10 wine
it actually has layers of flavors,
not just nice fruit. It also has the
silky tannins that Washington
wines are known for. Columbia Valley, Washington
699 $3 799 $3
2009 Round Hill Chardonnay
2008 Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
All prices subject to availablity, while supplies last.
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition:
Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual function. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
With all these award winners on our stores’ shelves for the next two months, we know that you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old favorite or try something new — you can’t go wrong with any of these reccommendations. Ask a Wine Steward in our stores if you have any questions. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here to help you! Next time you’re in the wine aisle in one of our stores struggling to figure out which wine to pair with a steak or a light salad, speak with one of our knowledgable wine stewards. They are always happy to help you make your selection.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward, Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy living outside. Maybe that's why his favorite product from Nugget's adult beverage department is Knob Creek Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha says. Keeping with the outdoor theme, Misha, who has been a Nugget associate since 2003, says that his favorite food is "barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha also says he adheres to the wisdom passed down to us by one of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine Stewards Help Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s finest from thelargest competition of American wines in the world
Ask one of these experts next time you need assistance in the wine aisle
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
Round Hill ChardonnayGold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate, it has lively acidity and a round, creamy texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot, nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml. California
Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine than a regular 750ml bottle),
it is in probably the most environmen-tally friendly wine package we have. Great for camping or anywhere not suited for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California
2008 Ravenswood ZinfandelGold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas and flavors of raspberries, blueberries, black cherries, and spicy hints of oak. Well balanced, with supple tannins and a long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a pleasure to drink now and will be for the next couple of years. 750 ml. California
Loredona Viognier Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee and guava — complemented by crisp, refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp acidity and mineral notes. This elegant Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of dishes. 750 ml. Monterey
With all these award winners on our stores’ shelves for the next two months, we know that you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old favorite or try something new.
Dont be intimidated by the thought of entertaining! Whether you’re having an intimate gathering or an all-out bash, Nugget Markets is always here to help you make your party a success. Some people shy away from the thought of entertaining large parties in their homes, but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the biggest unknowns when planning a party. How much wine should I get? How many appetizers do people expect? It’s important to keep guests satisfied, but at the same time, not to overdo it and blow your budget. Follow this handy guide for help with some frequently asked questions:
How much wine do I need?Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses of wine. If you order a whole case of wine (that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to have enough for one glass of wine each for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will want to partake in more than just one glass, so please plan accordingly. Also, make sure to ask our wine stewards about discount that may be available for large wine purchases, and remember, when you buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits, you will receive a 10% discount (some exclusions may apply, see a wine steward for details).
How should I serve cheese to my guests?
Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment to a well-selected array of wines, and Nugget Markets cheese specialists are always happy to help you make your selections. When preparing a cheese board, always start with a cheese-friendly surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a general guideline, when buying cheese for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per person per cheese.
Cheeses are best served in odd numbers (arranged according to flavor) with a common theme, like country of origin or type. Always use separate knives for each cheese and remember to serve them at room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per appetizer if you are serving them as a start to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in this format, you will not need to serve more than one or two options. Heavy hors doeuvres parties require quite a bit more. Traditionally, guests will consume a minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2 hour period.
In addition to providing individual-sized nibbles, it is always a good idea to consider including one or two composed platters such as fruit, grilled vegetables, spinach dip or hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Next time you're shopping in the wine department at El Dorado Hills, stop and talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If you're lucky, he might give you a few tips about ... basketball? "Not many guests know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship to play basketball at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John says. After his basketball career, he even stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil pipeline! These days, his focus is more on wine — though don't ask him what his favorite wine is, because he simply can't choose. "I like all of them!" he says. Similarly, he says his favorite food is "everything."
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain," in pursuit of great wine, Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all the different wine-growing regions; in Argentina, I learned about the families that produce wine, and the different grape varietals produced there; and in Spain, I learned about the unique styles of wine that come from that country." Spain holds a particularly special place in Shannon's heart — she says her favorite food and wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As for her favorite wine on its own, it's a three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of these varietals are completely different and have their own uniqueness about them."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville Nugget Market
Having been in the wine-buying business for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville Wine Steward Brian Madden says that when he initially started working with wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon Bay needed someone to run the liquor department. My interest grew from the job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has traveled all over the world pursuing his passion for grapes, including to Spain, Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina. "Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite place to travel for the wine industry," Brian says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it for the depth of dark fruits, layering, balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working as a chef. After becoming involved with winemaker dinners and selecting wines for his restaurant's wine list, Michael made the transition to wine steward, and he is currently working on completing his certification as a Master Sommelier. Michael has also traveled extensively to the world's major food-and-wine regions, including the Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire Valley in France.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain,” she says.
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition:
Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual function. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
These wines are all award winners, and you can’t go wrong with any of these recommendations. We know it can be daunting to pick out the perfect wine, so if you’re still having trouble deciding, keep in mind that you can always ask a Wine Steward in our stores if you have any questions. We know you’ll find something that you love. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here to help you! Next time you’re in the wine aisle in one of our stores struggling to figure out which wine to pair with a steak or a light salad, speak with one of our knowledgable wine stewards. They are always happy to help you make your selection.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward, Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy living outside. Maybe that's why his favorite product from Nugget's adult beverage department is Knob Creek Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha says. Keeping with the outdoor theme, Misha, who has been a Nugget associate since 2003, says that his favorite food is "barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha also says he adheres to the wisdom passed down to us by one of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine Stewards Help Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s finest from thelargest competition of American wines in the world
Ask one of these experts next time you need assistance in the wine aisle
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
Round Hill ChardonnayGold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate, it has lively acidity and a round, creamy texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot, nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml. California
Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine than a regular 750ml bottle),
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
it is in probably the most environmentally friendly wine package we have. Great for camping or anywhere not suited for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California
2008 Ravenswood ZinfandelGold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas and flavors of raspberries, blueberries, black cherries, and spicy hints of oak. Well balanced, with supple tannins and a long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a pleasure to drink now and will be for the next couple of years. 750 ml. California
Loredona Viognier Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee and guava — complemented by crisp, refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp acidity and mineral notes. This elegant Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of dishes. 750 ml. Monterey
We’ve got all of these award winners on our shelves and on sale for the next two months, so we hope you’ll stop by and check them out. You might find your new favorite!
Dont be intimidated by the thought of entertaining! Whether you’re having an intimate gathering or an all-out bash, Nugget Markets is always here to help you make your party a success. Some people shy away from the thought of entertaining large parties in their homes, but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the biggest unknowns when planning a party. How much wine should I get? How many appetizers do people expect? It’s important to keep guests satisfied, but at the same time, not to overdo it and blow your budget. Follow this handy guide for help with some frequently asked questions:
How much wine do I need?Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses of wine. If you order a whole case of wine (that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to have enough for one glass of wine each for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will want to partake in more than just one glass, so please plan accordingly. Also, make sure to ask our wine stewards about discount that may be available for large wine purchases, and remember, when you buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits, you will receive a 10% discount (some exclusions may apply, see a wine steward for details).
How should I serve cheese to my guests?
Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment to a well-selected array of wines, and Nugget Markets cheese specialists are always happy to help you make your selections. When preparing a cheese board, always start with a cheese-friendly surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a general guideline, when buying cheese for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per person per cheese.
Cheeses are best served in odd numbers (arranged according to flavor) with a common theme, like country of origin or type. Always use separate knives for each cheese and remember to serve them at room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per appetizer if you are serving them as a start to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in this format, you will not need to serve more than one or two options. Heavy hors doeuvres parties require quite a bit more. Traditionally, guests will consume a minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2 hour period.
In addition to providing individual-sized nibbles, it is always a good idea to consider including one or two composed platters such as fruit, grilled vegetables, spinach dip or hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain," in pursuit of great wine, Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all the different wine-growing regions; in Argentina, I learned about the families that produce wine, and the different grape varietals produced there; and in Spain, I learned about the unique styles of wine that come from that country." Spain holds a particularly special place in Shannon's heart — she says her favorite food and wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As for her favorite wine on its own, it's a three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of these varietals are completely different and have their own uniqueness about them."
Next time you're shopping in the wine department at El Dorado Hills, stop and talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If you're lucky, he might give you a few tips about ... basketball? "Not many guests know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship to play basketball at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John says. After his basketball career, he even stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil pipeline! These days, his focus is more on wine — though don't ask him what his favorite wine is, because he simply can't choose. "I like all of them!" he says. Similarly, he says his favorite food is "everything."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville Nugget Market
Having been in the wine-buying business for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville Wine Steward Brian Madden says that when he initially started working with wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon Bay needed someone to run the liquor department. My interest grew from the job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has traveled all over the world pursuing his passion for grapes, including to Spain, Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina. "Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite place to travel for the wine industry," Brian says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it for the depth of dark fruits, layering, balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy. Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working as a chef. After becoming involved with winemaker dinners and selecting wines for his restaurant's wine list, Michael made the transition to wine steward, and he is currently working on completing his certification as a Master Sommelier. Michael has also traveled extensively to the world's major food-and-wine regions, including the Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire Valley in France.
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods."
Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the Golden state, but he returned to his hometown of Sacramento, where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Every summer we base an issue of
the Wine Press on winners from the
California State Fair. This wine fair is
a very substantial tasting, where
nearly 3,000 California wines are
judged. However, for this issue we
decided to glean winners from an even
larger fair involving wines from all
over America — the San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale
Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this
event has really evolved over the
years. In its early stages, the
competition solely included wines
from northern Sonoma and southern
Mendocino Counties. It later
expanded to include wines from all
wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and
Lake Counties — then the entire state,
and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition has now
grown to become the largest
competition of American wines in the
world. From the 3,800 wines that were
entered in 2007, it has now risen to a
staggering 4,913 entries in 2010.
Today, 60 prestigious experts from
across America’s media, trade,
hospitality and education industries
join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from
California wineries. While there was
limited availability for most of the
out-of-state winners, we fortunately
had no trouble tracking down
outstanding Californian wines and
great values. Many of these winners
were already on our shelves, while
others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the
competition: Hahn SLH Pinot Noir
Double Gold Medal
"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At
$19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank
Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the
best value in Moscato. If you like your
wines with a touch of sweetness and a
little lower alcohol, this varietal is for
you. 750 ml. California Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free
Range RedGold Medal — Pinot Grigio and
Free Range RedNeed a white and a red for a big
shindig and don't know what to buy?
These would be perfect as BBQ wines
or for any casual function. The Pinot
Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing,
whereas the red blend is light to
medium bodied, with nice red berry
fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux) 2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet
SauvignonGold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double
Gold. It is one of three wines we are
featuring from the Hahn Winery — all
are values in their price bracket. This
is the lower tier in price, but not
quality; it has solid dark berry fruit
concentration and enough structure to
let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon.
750 ml. CaliforniaWith all these award winners on our
stores’ shelves for the next two
months, we know that you’re
guaranteed to find something you’ll
enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old
favorite or try something new — you
can’t go wrong with any of these
reccommendations. Ask a Wine
Steward in our stores if you have any
questions. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the
Wine Press on winners from the California
State Fair. This wine fair is a very
substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000
California wines are judged. However, for
this issue we decided to glean winners from
an even larger fair involving wines from all
over America — the San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus
Fair Wine Competition, this event has
really evolved over the years. In its early
stages, the competition solely included
wines from northern Sonoma and southern
Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to
include wines from all wineries in Sonoma,
Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the
entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle
Wine Competition has now grown to
become the largest competition of
American wines in the world. From the
3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it
has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries
in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from
across America’s media, trade, hospitality
and education industries join together to
judge these wines.Our picks for this issue all hail from
California wineries. While there was
limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here
to help you! Next time you’re in the wine
aisle in one of our stores struggling to
figure out which wine to pair with a steak
or a light salad, speak with one of our
knowledgable wine stewards. They are
always happy to help you make your
selection.Steve Graham, Wine Steward,
Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not
always have been an expert in fine wine
and cuisine, but he has long been employed
in the food industry. Take his first job: "I
was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the
newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says.
Today, Steve has graduated from fries to
wines, completing his first-level training
from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and
also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine
designation. Steve's other interests include
opera, soccer, and especially bicycling —
on his off time, he has volunteered at the
Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a
Certified Bike Technician from the United
Bicycle Institute. It may come as no
surprise, then, that Steve says one of his
favorite things is "a cold beer after a long,
hard bicycle ride."Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West
Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling,
West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom
Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is
probably the most mis-understood grape
varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan,
having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in
Washington state to learn more about the
varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of
aromas and flavors, and they pair very well
with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan
of many other wine varietals as well,
including Pinot Noir (for its complexity),
Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and
Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A
Sacramento native, Tom has lived all
across the state, but returned to his
hometown where he currently resides with
his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward,
Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward
Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy
living outside. Maybe that's why his
favorite product from Nugget's adult
beverage department is Knob Creek
Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're
camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha
says. Keeping with the outdoor theme,
Misha, who has been a Nugget associate
since 2003, says that his favorite food is
"barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky
flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha
also says he adheres to the wisdom passed
down to us by one of our founding fathers,
Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine Stewards Help Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s
finest from thelargest competition
of American wines in
the world
Ask one of these experts next time you need assistance in the wine aisle
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had
no trouble tracking down outstanding
Californian wines and great values. Many
of these winners were already on our
shelves, while others are welcome
newcomers.Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot Noir
Double Gold Medal
"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it
is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml.
Santa Lucia Highlands Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best
value in Moscato. If you like your wines
with a touch of sweetness and a little lower
alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml.
California Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range
RedGold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free
Range RedNeed a white and a red for a big shindig
and don't know what to buy? These would
be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual
unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and
refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red
berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux) 2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet
SauvignonGold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one
of three wines we are featuring from the
Hahn Winery — all are values in their price
bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but
not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit
concentration and enough structure to let
you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml.
California Round Hill Chardonnay
Gold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with
cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate,
it has lively acidity and a round, creamy
texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot,
nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky
finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml.
California Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet
SauvignonGold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine
than a regular 750ml bottle),
it is in probably the most environmen-
tally friendly wine package we have.
Great for camping or anywhere not suited
for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California 2008 Ravenswood Zinfandel
Gold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the
premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas
and flavors of raspberries, blueberries,
black cherries, and spicy hints of oak.
Well balanced, with supple tannins and a
long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a
pleasure to drink now and will be for the
next couple of years. 750 ml. California Loredona Viognier
Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee
and guava — complemented by crisp,
refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus
flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp
acidity and mineral notes. This elegant
Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of
dishes. 750 ml. Monterey With all these award winners on our
stores’ shelves for the next two months,
we know that you’re guaranteed to find
something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle
of an old favorite or try something new.
Dont be intimidated by the thought of
entertaining! Whether you’re having an
intimate gathering or an all-out bash,
Nugget Markets is always here to help
you make your party a success. Some
people shy away from the thought of
entertaining large parties in their homes,
but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is
some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the
biggest unknowns when planning a party.
How much wine should I get? How many
appetizers do people expect? It’s
important to keep guests satisfied, but at
the same time, not to overdo it and blow
your budget. Follow this handy guide for
help with some frequently asked
questions:How much wine do I need?
Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses
of wine. If you order a whole case of wine
(that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to
have enough for one glass of wine each
for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will
want to partake in more than just one
glass, so please plan accordingly. Also,
make sure to ask our wine stewards about
discount that may be available for large
wine purchases, and remember, when you
buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits,
you will receive a 10% discount (some
exclusions may apply, see a wine steward
for details). How should I serve cheese to my
guests?Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment
to a well-selected array of wines, and
Nugget Markets cheese specialists are
always happy to help you make your
selections. When preparing a cheese
board, always start with a cheese-friendly
surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a
general guideline, when buying cheese
for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per
person per cheese.Cheeses are best served in odd numbers
(arranged according to flavor) with a
common theme, like country of origin or
type. Always use separate knives for each
cheese and remember to serve them at
room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors
doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per
appetizer if you are serving them as a start
to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in
this format, you will not need to serve
more than one or two options. Heavy hors
doeuvres parties require quite a bit more.
Traditionally, guests will consume a
minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2
hour period. In addition to providing
individual-sized nibbles, it is always a
good idea to consider including one or
two composed platters such as fruit,
grilled vegetables, spinach dip or
hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Next time you're shopping in the wine
department at El Dorado Hills, stop and
talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If
you're lucky, he might give you a few tips
about ... basketball? "Not many guests
know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship
to play basketball at the University of
Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John
says. After his basketball career, he even
stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil
pipeline! These days, his focus is more on
wine — though don't ask him what his
favorite wine is, because he simply can't
choose. "I like all of them!" he says.
Similarly, he says his favorite food is
"everything." Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove
Nugget MarketShannon Rock has been known to travel
the globe in search of the next great wine
that she can share with Nugget Markets
guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina
and Spain," in pursuit of great wine,
Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all
the different wine-growing regions; in
Argentina, I learned about the families that
produce wine, and the different grape
varietals produced there; and in Spain, I
learned about the unique styles of wine that
come from that country." Spain holds a
particularly special place in Shannon's
heart — she says her favorite food and
wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As
for her favorite wine on its own, it's a
three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and
Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of
these varietals are completely different and
have their own uniqueness about them."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville
Nugget MarketHaving been in the wine-buying business
for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville
Wine Steward Brian Madden says that
when he initially started working with
wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I
need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon
Bay needed someone to run the liquor
department. My interest grew from the
job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has
traveled all over the world pursuing his
passion for grapes, including to Spain,
Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina.
"Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite
place to travel for the wine industry," Brian
says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent
grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it
for the depth of dark fruits, layering,
balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis
(Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward
Michael Taylor any questions you might
have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is
always willing to help, and his extensive
knowledge of wines will certainly come in
handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in
both areas, because before coming to
Nugget Market, he spent 17 years
working as a chef. After becoming
involved with winemaker dinners and
selecting wines for his restaurant's wine
list, Michael made the transition to wine
steward, and he is currently working on
completing his certification as a Master
Sommelier. Michael has also traveled
extensively to the world's major
food-and-wine regions, including the
Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region
in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire
Valley in France.Steve Graham, Wine Steward,
Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget
MarketWine Steward Steve Graham may not
always have been an expert in fine wine
and cuisine, but he has long been
employed in the food industry. Take his
first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at
Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise
Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has
graduated from fries to wines,
completing his first-level training from
the Court of Master Sommeliers, and
also attaining a Certified Specialist of
Wine designation. Steve's other interests
include opera, soccer, and especially
bicycling — on his off time, he has
volunteered at the Sacramento Bike
Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike
Technician from the United Bicycle
Institute. It may come as no surprise,
then, that Steve says one of his favorite
things is "a cold beer after a long, hard
bicycle ride." Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West
Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling,
West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom
Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is
probably the most mis-understood grape
varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a
fan, having traveled to Chateau St.
Michelle in Washington state to learn
more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer
a wide range of aromas and flavors, and
they pair very well with many foods." Of
course, Tom is a fan of many other wine
varietals as well, including Pinot Noir
(for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon
(for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its
accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom
has lived all across the state, but returned
to his hometown where he currently
resides with his wife and three children.
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk
Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to
travel the globe in search of the next
great wine that she can share with
Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled
to Italy, Argentina and Spain,” she says.
Gold Medal
A California blended wine, this is a super-reliable old standby from
one of the premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas and flavors of
raspberries, blueberries, black cherries, and spicy hints of oak. Well
balanced, with supple tannins and a long, fruit-forward finish, this
wine is a pleasure to drink now and will be for the next couple of
years. 750 ml.
California $4799
Gold Medal
Offers aromas of sweet oranges,
white peaches and apricots,
with a hint of lychee and guava
— complemented by crisp,
refreshing, luscious nectarine
and citrus flavors on the palate,
balanced with crisp acidity
and mineral notes. This elegant
Viognier is a perfect match for a
variety of dishes. 750 ml. Lodi
Double Gold Medal
This is one of our bestsellers
and it again proves that Bogle
consistently puts out quality
wines at a fair price. Bogle is
a brand that delivers across a
wide range of varietals. 750 ml. California
799 $5 799 $4
2009 Loredona Viognier 2009 Bogle Chardonnay
2008 Ravenswood Zinfandel Vintners Blend
Gold Medal — Zinfandel and Pinot Noir
The Gnarly Head Zinfandel launched this brand, and
they have steadily expanded the line. We have resisted
jumping on every other varietal released, but this Pinot
Noir deserves your attention as well. Anytime you can
get a wine that actually tastes like Pinot Noir for this
price, grab it. 750 ml.
Lodi & California
2009 Gnarly Head Zinfandel and Pinot Noir
2009 McManis Barbera, Viognier and Petite SirahGold Medal & Best of Class — Viognier and Petite Sirah;
Gold Medal — Barbera
This winery is on fire, delivering value across their
lineup. They won multiple awards, as did winemaker
Jeff Runquist (another big winner), who assisted
McManis with these offerings. Varietal-correctness with
accessible fruit is these wines' hallmark. 750 ml.
California
$1999
$2999All prices subject to availablity, while supplies last.
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition:
Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual function. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
With all these award winners on our stores’ shelves for the next two months, we know that you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old favorite or try something new — you can’t go wrong with any of these reccommendations. Ask a Wine Steward in our stores if you have any questions. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here to help you! Next time you’re in the wine aisle in one of our stores struggling to figure out which wine to pair with a steak or a light salad, speak with one of our knowledgable wine stewards. They are always happy to help you make your selection.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward, Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy living outside. Maybe that's why his favorite product from Nugget's adult beverage department is Knob Creek Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha says. Keeping with the outdoor theme, Misha, who has been a Nugget associate since 2003, says that his favorite food is "barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha also says he adheres to the wisdom passed down to us by one of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine Stewards Help Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s finest from thelargest competition of American wines in the world
Ask one of these experts next time you need assistance in the wine aisle
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
Round Hill ChardonnayGold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate, it has lively acidity and a round, creamy texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot, nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml. California
Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine than a regular 750ml bottle),
it is in probably the most environmen-tally friendly wine package we have. Great for camping or anywhere not suited for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California
2008 Ravenswood ZinfandelGold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas and flavors of raspberries, blueberries, black cherries, and spicy hints of oak. Well balanced, with supple tannins and a long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a pleasure to drink now and will be for the next couple of years. 750 ml. California
Loredona Viognier Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee and guava — complemented by crisp, refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp acidity and mineral notes. This elegant Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of dishes. 750 ml. Monterey
With all these award winners on our stores’ shelves for the next two months, we know that you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old favorite or try something new.
Dont be intimidated by the thought of entertaining! Whether you’re having an intimate gathering or an all-out bash, Nugget Markets is always here to help you make your party a success. Some people shy away from the thought of entertaining large parties in their homes, but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the biggest unknowns when planning a party. How much wine should I get? How many appetizers do people expect? It’s important to keep guests satisfied, but at the same time, not to overdo it and blow your budget. Follow this handy guide for help with some frequently asked questions:
How much wine do I need?Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses of wine. If you order a whole case of wine (that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to have enough for one glass of wine each for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will want to partake in more than just one glass, so please plan accordingly. Also, make sure to ask our wine stewards about discount that may be available for large wine purchases, and remember, when you buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits, you will receive a 10% discount (some exclusions may apply, see a wine steward for details).
How should I serve cheese to my guests?
Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment to a well-selected array of wines, and Nugget Markets cheese specialists are always happy to help you make your selections. When preparing a cheese board, always start with a cheese-friendly surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a general guideline, when buying cheese for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per person per cheese.
Cheeses are best served in odd numbers (arranged according to flavor) with a common theme, like country of origin or type. Always use separate knives for each cheese and remember to serve them at room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per appetizer if you are serving them as a start to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in this format, you will not need to serve more than one or two options. Heavy hors doeuvres parties require quite a bit more. Traditionally, guests will consume a minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2 hour period.
In addition to providing individual-sized nibbles, it is always a good idea to consider including one or two composed platters such as fruit, grilled vegetables, spinach dip or hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Next time you're shopping in the wine department at El Dorado Hills, stop and talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If you're lucky, he might give you a few tips about ... basketball? "Not many guests know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship to play basketball at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John says. After his basketball career, he even stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil pipeline! These days, his focus is more on wine — though don't ask him what his favorite wine is, because he simply can't choose. "I like all of them!" he says. Similarly, he says his favorite food is "everything."
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain," in pursuit of great wine, Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all the different wine-growing regions; in Argentina, I learned about the families that produce wine, and the different grape varietals produced there; and in Spain, I learned about the unique styles of wine that come from that country." Spain holds a particularly special place in Shannon's heart — she says her favorite food and wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As for her favorite wine on its own, it's a three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of these varietals are completely different and have their own uniqueness about them."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville Nugget Market
Having been in the wine-buying business for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville Wine Steward Brian Madden says that when he initially started working with wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon Bay needed someone to run the liquor department. My interest grew from the job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has traveled all over the world pursuing his passion for grapes, including to Spain, Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina. "Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite place to travel for the wine industry," Brian says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it for the depth of dark fruits, layering, balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working as a chef. After becoming involved with winemaker dinners and selecting wines for his restaurant's wine list, Michael made the transition to wine steward, and he is currently working on completing his certification as a Master Sommelier. Michael has also traveled extensively to the world's major food-and-wine regions, including the Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire Valley in France.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain,” she says.
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition:
Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual function. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
These wines are all award winners, and you can’t go wrong with any of these recommendations. We know it can be daunting to pick out the perfect wine, so if you’re still having trouble deciding, keep in mind that you can always ask a Wine Steward in our stores if you have any questions. We know you’ll find something that you love. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here to help you! Next time you’re in the wine aisle in one of our stores struggling to figure out which wine to pair with a steak or a light salad, speak with one of our knowledgable wine stewards. They are always happy to help you make your selection.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward, Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy living outside. Maybe that's why his favorite product from Nugget's adult beverage department is Knob Creek Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha says. Keeping with the outdoor theme, Misha, who has been a Nugget associate since 2003, says that his favorite food is "barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha also says he adheres to the wisdom passed down to us by one of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine’s Friendly Faces Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s finest from thelargest competition of American wines in the world
Get to know Nugget Markets’ wine stewards, who are always available to help
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
Round Hill ChardonnayGold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate, it has lively acidity and a round, creamy texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot, nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml. California
Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine than a regular 750ml bottle),
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
it is in probably the most environmentally friendly wine package we have. Great for camping or anywhere not suited for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California
2008 Ravenswood ZinfandelGold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas and flavors of raspberries, blueberries, black cherries, and spicy hints of oak. Well balanced, with supple tannins and a long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a pleasure to drink now and will be for the next couple of years. 750 ml. California
Loredona Viognier Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee and guava — complemented by crisp, refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp acidity and mineral notes. This elegant Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of dishes. 750 ml. Monterey
We’ve got all of these award winners on our shelves and on sale for the next two months, so we hope you’ll stop by and check them out. You might find your new favorite!
Dont be intimidated by the thought of entertaining! Whether you’re having an intimate gathering or an all-out bash, Nugget Markets is always here to help you make your party a success. Some people shy away from the thought of entertaining large parties in their homes, but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the biggest unknowns when planning a party. How much wine should I get? How many appetizers do people expect? It’s important to keep guests satisfied, but at the same time, not to overdo it and blow your budget. Follow this handy guide for help with some frequently asked questions:
How much wine do I need?Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses of wine. If you order a whole case of wine (that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to have enough for one glass of wine each for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will want to partake in more than just one glass, so please plan accordingly. Also, make sure to ask our wine stewards about discount that may be available for large wine purchases, and remember, when you buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits, you will receive a 10% discount (some exclusions may apply, see a wine steward for details).
How should I serve cheese to my guests?
Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment to a well-selected array of wines, and Nugget Markets cheese specialists are always happy to help you make your selections. When preparing a cheese board, always start with a cheese-friendly surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a general guideline, when buying cheese for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per person per cheese.
Cheeses are best served in odd numbers (arranged according to flavor) with a common theme, like country of origin or type. Always use separate knives for each cheese and remember to serve them at room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per appetizer if you are serving them as a start to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in this format, you will not need to serve more than one or two options. Heavy hors doeuvres parties require quite a bit more. Traditionally, guests will consume a minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2 hour period.
In addition to providing individual-sized nibbles, it is always a good idea to consider including one or two composed platters such as fruit, grilled vegetables, spinach dip or hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain," in pursuit of great wine, Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all the different wine-growing regions; in Argentina, I learned about the families that produce wine, and the different grape varietals produced there; and in Spain, I learned about the unique styles of wine that come from that country." Spain holds a particularly special place in Shannon's heart — she says her favorite food and wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As for her favorite wine on its own, it's a three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of these varietals are completely different and have their own uniqueness about them."
Next time you're shopping in the wine department at El Dorado Hills, stop and talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If you're lucky, he might give you a few tips about ... basketball? "Not many guests know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship to play basketball at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John says. After his basketball career, he even stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil pipeline! These days, his focus is more on wine — though don't ask him what his favorite wine is, because he simply can't choose. "I like all of them!" he says. Similarly, he says his favorite food is "everything."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville Nugget Market
Having been in the wine-buying business for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville Wine Steward Brian Madden says that when he initially started working with wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon Bay needed someone to run the liquor department. My interest grew from the job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has traveled all over the world pursuing his passion for grapes, including to Spain, Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina. "Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite place to travel for the wine industry," Brian says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it for the depth of dark fruits, layering, balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy. Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working as a chef. After becoming involved with winemaker dinners and selecting wines for his restaurant's wine list, Michael made the transition to wine steward, and he is currently working on completing his certification as a Master Sommelier. Michael has also traveled extensively to the world's major food-and-wine regions, including the Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire Valley in France.
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods."
Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the Golden state, but he returned to his hometown of Sacramento, where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Every summer we base an issue of
the Wine Press on winners from the
California State Fair. This wine fair is
a very substantial tasting, where
nearly 3,000 California wines are
judged. However, for this issue we
decided to glean winners from an even
larger fair involving wines from all
over America — the San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale
Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this
event has really evolved over the
years. In its early stages, the
competition solely included wines
from northern Sonoma and southern
Mendocino Counties. It later
expanded to include wines from all
wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and
Lake Counties — then the entire state,
and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition has now
grown to become the largest
competition of American wines in the
world. From the 3,800 wines that were
entered in 2007, it has now risen to a
staggering 4,913 entries in 2010.
Today, 60 prestigious experts from
across America’s media, trade,
hospitality and education industries
join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from
California wineries. While there was
limited availability for most of the
out-of-state winners, we fortunately
had no trouble tracking down
outstanding Californian wines and
great values. Many of these winners
were already on our shelves, while
others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the
competition: Hahn SLH Pinot Noir
Double Gold Medal
"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At
$19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank
Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the
best value in Moscato. If you like your
wines with a touch of sweetness and a
little lower alcohol, this varietal is for
you. 750 ml. California Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free
Range RedGold Medal — Pinot Grigio and
Free Range RedNeed a white and a red for a big
shindig and don't know what to buy?
These would be perfect as BBQ wines
or for any casual function. The Pinot
Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing,
whereas the red blend is light to
medium bodied, with nice red berry
fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux) 2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet
SauvignonGold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double
Gold. It is one of three wines we are
featuring from the Hahn Winery — all
are values in their price bracket. This
is the lower tier in price, but not
quality; it has solid dark berry fruit
concentration and enough structure to
let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon.
750 ml. CaliforniaWith all these award winners on our
stores’ shelves for the next two
months, we know that you’re
guaranteed to find something you’ll
enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old
favorite or try something new — you
can’t go wrong with any of these
reccommendations. Ask a Wine
Steward in our stores if you have any
questions. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the
Wine Press on winners from the California
State Fair. This wine fair is a very
substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000
California wines are judged. However, for
this issue we decided to glean winners from
an even larger fair involving wines from all
over America — the San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus
Fair Wine Competition, this event has
really evolved over the years. In its early
stages, the competition solely included
wines from northern Sonoma and southern
Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to
include wines from all wineries in Sonoma,
Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the
entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle
Wine Competition has now grown to
become the largest competition of
American wines in the world. From the
3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it
has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries
in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from
across America’s media, trade, hospitality
and education industries join together to
judge these wines.Our picks for this issue all hail from
California wineries. While there was
limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here
to help you! Next time you’re in the wine
aisle in one of our stores struggling to
figure out which wine to pair with a steak
or a light salad, speak with one of our
knowledgable wine stewards. They are
always happy to help you make your
selection.Steve Graham, Wine Steward,
Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not
always have been an expert in fine wine
and cuisine, but he has long been employed
in the food industry. Take his first job: "I
was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the
newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says.
Today, Steve has graduated from fries to
wines, completing his first-level training
from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and
also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine
designation. Steve's other interests include
opera, soccer, and especially bicycling —
on his off time, he has volunteered at the
Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a
Certified Bike Technician from the United
Bicycle Institute. It may come as no
surprise, then, that Steve says one of his
favorite things is "a cold beer after a long,
hard bicycle ride."Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West
Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling,
West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom
Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is
probably the most mis-understood grape
varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan,
having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in
Washington state to learn more about the
varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of
aromas and flavors, and they pair very well
with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan
of many other wine varietals as well,
including Pinot Noir (for its complexity),
Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and
Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A
Sacramento native, Tom has lived all
across the state, but returned to his
hometown where he currently resides with
his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward,
Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward
Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy
living outside. Maybe that's why his
favorite product from Nugget's adult
beverage department is Knob Creek
Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're
camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha
says. Keeping with the outdoor theme,
Misha, who has been a Nugget associate
since 2003, says that his favorite food is
"barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky
flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha
also says he adheres to the wisdom passed
down to us by one of our founding fathers,
Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine Stewards Help Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s
finest from thelargest competition
of American wines in
the world
Ask one of these experts next time you need assistance in the wine aisle
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had
no trouble tracking down outstanding
Californian wines and great values. Many
of these winners were already on our
shelves, while others are welcome
newcomers.Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot Noir
Double Gold Medal
"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it
is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml.
Santa Lucia Highlands Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best
value in Moscato. If you like your wines
with a touch of sweetness and a little lower
alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml.
California Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range
RedGold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free
Range RedNeed a white and a red for a big shindig
and don't know what to buy? These would
be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual
unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and
refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red
berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux) 2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet
SauvignonGold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one
of three wines we are featuring from the
Hahn Winery — all are values in their price
bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but
not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit
concentration and enough structure to let
you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml.
California Round Hill Chardonnay
Gold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with
cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate,
it has lively acidity and a round, creamy
texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot,
nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky
finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml.
California Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet
SauvignonGold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine
than a regular 750ml bottle),
it is in probably the most environmen-
tally friendly wine package we have.
Great for camping or anywhere not suited
for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California 2008 Ravenswood Zinfandel
Gold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the
premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas
and flavors of raspberries, blueberries,
black cherries, and spicy hints of oak.
Well balanced, with supple tannins and a
long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a
pleasure to drink now and will be for the
next couple of years. 750 ml. California Loredona Viognier
Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee
and guava — complemented by crisp,
refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus
flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp
acidity and mineral notes. This elegant
Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of
dishes. 750 ml. Monterey With all these award winners on our
stores’ shelves for the next two months,
we know that you’re guaranteed to find
something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle
of an old favorite or try something new.
Dont be intimidated by the thought of
entertaining! Whether you’re having an
intimate gathering or an all-out bash,
Nugget Markets is always here to help
you make your party a success. Some
people shy away from the thought of
entertaining large parties in their homes,
but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is
some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the
biggest unknowns when planning a party.
How much wine should I get? How many
appetizers do people expect? It’s
important to keep guests satisfied, but at
the same time, not to overdo it and blow
your budget. Follow this handy guide for
help with some frequently asked
questions:How much wine do I need?
Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses
of wine. If you order a whole case of wine
(that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to
have enough for one glass of wine each
for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will
want to partake in more than just one
glass, so please plan accordingly. Also,
make sure to ask our wine stewards about
discount that may be available for large
wine purchases, and remember, when you
buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits,
you will receive a 10% discount (some
exclusions may apply, see a wine steward
for details). How should I serve cheese to my
guests?Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment
to a well-selected array of wines, and
Nugget Markets cheese specialists are
always happy to help you make your
selections. When preparing a cheese
board, always start with a cheese-friendly
surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a
general guideline, when buying cheese
for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per
person per cheese.Cheeses are best served in odd numbers
(arranged according to flavor) with a
common theme, like country of origin or
type. Always use separate knives for each
cheese and remember to serve them at
room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors
doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per
appetizer if you are serving them as a start
to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in
this format, you will not need to serve
more than one or two options. Heavy hors
doeuvres parties require quite a bit more.
Traditionally, guests will consume a
minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2
hour period. In addition to providing
individual-sized nibbles, it is always a
good idea to consider including one or
two composed platters such as fruit,
grilled vegetables, spinach dip or
hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Next time you're shopping in the wine
department at El Dorado Hills, stop and
talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If
you're lucky, he might give you a few tips
about ... basketball? "Not many guests
know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship
to play basketball at the University of
Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John
says. After his basketball career, he even
stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil
pipeline! These days, his focus is more on
wine — though don't ask him what his
favorite wine is, because he simply can't
choose. "I like all of them!" he says.
Similarly, he says his favorite food is
"everything." Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove
Nugget MarketShannon Rock has been known to travel
the globe in search of the next great wine
that she can share with Nugget Markets
guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina
and Spain," in pursuit of great wine,
Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all
the different wine-growing regions; in
Argentina, I learned about the families that
produce wine, and the different grape
varietals produced there; and in Spain, I
learned about the unique styles of wine that
come from that country." Spain holds a
particularly special place in Shannon's
heart — she says her favorite food and
wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As
for her favorite wine on its own, it's a
three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and
Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of
these varietals are completely different and
have their own uniqueness about them."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville
Nugget MarketHaving been in the wine-buying business
for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville
Wine Steward Brian Madden says that
when he initially started working with
wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I
need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon
Bay needed someone to run the liquor
department. My interest grew from the
job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has
traveled all over the world pursuing his
passion for grapes, including to Spain,
Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina.
"Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite
place to travel for the wine industry," Brian
says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent
grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it
for the depth of dark fruits, layering,
balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis
(Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward
Michael Taylor any questions you might
have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is
always willing to help, and his extensive
knowledge of wines will certainly come in
handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in
both areas, because before coming to
Nugget Market, he spent 17 years
working as a chef. After becoming
involved with winemaker dinners and
selecting wines for his restaurant's wine
list, Michael made the transition to wine
steward, and he is currently working on
completing his certification as a Master
Sommelier. Michael has also traveled
extensively to the world's major
food-and-wine regions, including the
Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region
in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire
Valley in France.Steve Graham, Wine Steward,
Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget
MarketWine Steward Steve Graham may not
always have been an expert in fine wine
and cuisine, but he has long been
employed in the food industry. Take his
first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at
Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise
Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has
graduated from fries to wines,
completing his first-level training from
the Court of Master Sommeliers, and
also attaining a Certified Specialist of
Wine designation. Steve's other interests
include opera, soccer, and especially
bicycling — on his off time, he has
volunteered at the Sacramento Bike
Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike
Technician from the United Bicycle
Institute. It may come as no surprise,
then, that Steve says one of his favorite
things is "a cold beer after a long, hard
bicycle ride." Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West
Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling,
West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom
Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is
probably the most mis-understood grape
varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a
fan, having traveled to Chateau St.
Michelle in Washington state to learn
more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer
a wide range of aromas and flavors, and
they pair very well with many foods." Of
course, Tom is a fan of many other wine
varietals as well, including Pinot Noir
(for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon
(for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its
accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom
has lived all across the state, but returned
to his hometown where he currently
resides with his wife and three children.
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk
Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to
travel the globe in search of the next
great wine that she can share with
Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled
to Italy, Argentina and Spain,” she says.
Gold Medal — Pinot Noir and Petite Sirah
Cupcake sounds like a fun, but not serious, wine. Well, this winery
has been consistent in sourcing great fruit from near and far (their
Sauvignon Blanc is from new Zealand) and producing winners. Last
year we featured the Chardonnay from the State Fair, and now the
Pinot Noir and Petite Sirah have scored Gold in San Francisco!
750 ml.
Central Coast $2999
Double Gold
This Riesling shows ripe apricot,
sweet peaches and tropical
fruit, with floral undertones.
Concentrated, rich flavors of
perfumed white flowers are
supported by juicy apricots,
peaches and melon, with a hint of
honeysuckle. A fruit cocktail in a
bottle, it has good acidity to keep
it clean and refreshing. 750 ml. Monterey
Gold Medal
A wonderfully fresh and lively
wine (2010 vintage), with
aromas and flavors of peaches
and pears. The wine does have
some sweetness, but also good
acidity for balance. Taste this
Moscato and you'll see why this
varietal is en vogue. 750 ml. California
999 $2 999 $3
2009 Seaglass Riesling 2010 Trinitas Moscato
Cupcake 2009 Pinot Noir and 2008 Petite SirahGold Medal
This Southern Rhone-inspired blend of Grenache, Syrah
and Mourvedre showcases the best of these varietals
from California’s Central Coast. Grenache brings
berry and spice notes to the mix, while Syrah provides
color and tannins, and Mourvedre adds acidity and
structure. Never had a GSM? Try this one! 750 ml.
Central Coast
Hahn GSM
2009 Heron Sauvignon BlancGold Medal
We featured the Heron Chardonnay for last year's
State Fair newsletter, and it was a big hit. This $11 Napa
Valley Sauvignon Blanc is a beauty. "Crisp, clean,
vibrant citrus notes with layers of passion fruit and
minerality lead to a long, refreshing finish. This unoaked
Sauvignon Blanc is handcrafted from sustainably
grown Napa Valley grapes." — Heron Winery. 750 ml.
Napa Valley
$21099
$41099All prices subject to availablity, while supplies last.
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition:
Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual function. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
With all these award winners on our stores’ shelves for the next two months, we know that you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old favorite or try something new — you can’t go wrong with any of these reccommendations. Ask a Wine Steward in our stores if you have any questions. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here to help you! Next time you’re in the wine aisle in one of our stores struggling to figure out which wine to pair with a steak or a light salad, speak with one of our knowledgable wine stewards. They are always happy to help you make your selection.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward, Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy living outside. Maybe that's why his favorite product from Nugget's adult beverage department is Knob Creek Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha says. Keeping with the outdoor theme, Misha, who has been a Nugget associate since 2003, says that his favorite food is "barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha also says he adheres to the wisdom passed down to us by one of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine Stewards Help Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s finest from thelargest competition of American wines in the world
Ask one of these experts next time you need assistance in the wine aisle
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
Round Hill ChardonnayGold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate, it has lively acidity and a round, creamy texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot, nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml. California
Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine than a regular 750ml bottle),
it is in probably the most environmen-tally friendly wine package we have. Great for camping or anywhere not suited for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California
2008 Ravenswood ZinfandelGold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas and flavors of raspberries, blueberries, black cherries, and spicy hints of oak. Well balanced, with supple tannins and a long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a pleasure to drink now and will be for the next couple of years. 750 ml. California
Loredona Viognier Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee and guava — complemented by crisp, refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp acidity and mineral notes. This elegant Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of dishes. 750 ml. Monterey
With all these award winners on our stores’ shelves for the next two months, we know that you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old favorite or try something new.
Dont be intimidated by the thought of entertaining! Whether you’re having an intimate gathering or an all-out bash, Nugget Markets is always here to help you make your party a success. Some people shy away from the thought of entertaining large parties in their homes, but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the biggest unknowns when planning a party. How much wine should I get? How many appetizers do people expect? It’s important to keep guests satisfied, but at the same time, not to overdo it and blow your budget. Follow this handy guide for help with some frequently asked questions:
How much wine do I need?Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses of wine. If you order a whole case of wine (that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to have enough for one glass of wine each for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will want to partake in more than just one glass, so please plan accordingly. Also, make sure to ask our wine stewards about discount that may be available for large wine purchases, and remember, when you buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits, you will receive a 10% discount (some exclusions may apply, see a wine steward for details).
How should I serve cheese to my guests?
Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment to a well-selected array of wines, and Nugget Markets cheese specialists are always happy to help you make your selections. When preparing a cheese board, always start with a cheese-friendly surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a general guideline, when buying cheese for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per person per cheese.
Cheeses are best served in odd numbers (arranged according to flavor) with a common theme, like country of origin or type. Always use separate knives for each cheese and remember to serve them at room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per appetizer if you are serving them as a start to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in this format, you will not need to serve more than one or two options. Heavy hors doeuvres parties require quite a bit more. Traditionally, guests will consume a minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2 hour period.
In addition to providing individual-sized nibbles, it is always a good idea to consider including one or two composed platters such as fruit, grilled vegetables, spinach dip or hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Next time you're shopping in the wine department at El Dorado Hills, stop and talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If you're lucky, he might give you a few tips about ... basketball? "Not many guests know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship to play basketball at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John says. After his basketball career, he even stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil pipeline! These days, his focus is more on wine — though don't ask him what his favorite wine is, because he simply can't choose. "I like all of them!" he says. Similarly, he says his favorite food is "everything."
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain," in pursuit of great wine, Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all the different wine-growing regions; in Argentina, I learned about the families that produce wine, and the different grape varietals produced there; and in Spain, I learned about the unique styles of wine that come from that country." Spain holds a particularly special place in Shannon's heart — she says her favorite food and wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As for her favorite wine on its own, it's a three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of these varietals are completely different and have their own uniqueness about them."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville Nugget Market
Having been in the wine-buying business for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville Wine Steward Brian Madden says that when he initially started working with wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon Bay needed someone to run the liquor department. My interest grew from the job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has traveled all over the world pursuing his passion for grapes, including to Spain, Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina. "Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite place to travel for the wine industry," Brian says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it for the depth of dark fruits, layering, balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working as a chef. After becoming involved with winemaker dinners and selecting wines for his restaurant's wine list, Michael made the transition to wine steward, and he is currently working on completing his certification as a Master Sommelier. Michael has also traveled extensively to the world's major food-and-wine regions, including the Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire Valley in France.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain,” she says.
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition:
Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual function. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
These wines are all award winners, and you can’t go wrong with any of these recommendations. We know it can be daunting to pick out the perfect wine, so if you’re still having trouble deciding, keep in mind that you can always ask a Wine Steward in our stores if you have any questions. We know you’ll find something that you love. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here to help you! Next time you’re in the wine aisle in one of our stores struggling to figure out which wine to pair with a steak or a light salad, speak with one of our knowledgable wine stewards. They are always happy to help you make your selection.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward, Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy living outside. Maybe that's why his favorite product from Nugget's adult beverage department is Knob Creek Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha says. Keeping with the outdoor theme, Misha, who has been a Nugget associate since 2003, says that his favorite food is "barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha also says he adheres to the wisdom passed down to us by one of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine Stewards Help Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s finest from thelargest competition of American wines in the world
Ask one of these experts next time you need assistance in the wine aisle
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
Round Hill ChardonnayGold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate, it has lively acidity and a round, creamy texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot, nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml. California
Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine than a regular 750ml bottle),
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
it is in probably the most environmentally friendly wine package we have. Great for camping or anywhere not suited for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California
2008 Ravenswood ZinfandelGold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas and flavors of raspberries, blueberries, black cherries, and spicy hints of oak. Well balanced, with supple tannins and a long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a pleasure to drink now and will be for the next couple of years. 750 ml. California
Loredona Viognier Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee and guava — complemented by crisp, refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp acidity and mineral notes. This elegant Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of dishes. 750 ml. Monterey
We’ve got all of these award winners on our shelves and on sale for the next two months, so we hope you’ll stop by and check them out. You might find your new favorite!
Dont be intimidated by the thought of entertaining! Whether you’re having an intimate gathering or an all-out bash, Nugget Markets is always here to help you make your party a success. Some people shy away from the thought of entertaining large parties in their homes, but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the biggest unknowns when planning a party. How much wine should I get? How many appetizers do people expect? It’s important to keep guests satisfied, but at the same time, not to overdo it and blow your budget. Follow this handy guide for help with some frequently asked questions:
How much wine do I need?Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses of wine. If you order a whole case of wine (that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to have enough for one glass of wine each for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will want to partake in more than just one glass, so please plan accordingly. Also, make sure to ask our wine stewards about discount that may be available for large wine purchases, and remember, when you buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits, you will receive a 10% discount (some exclusions may apply, see a wine steward for details).
How should I serve cheese to my guests?
Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment to a well-selected array of wines, and Nugget Markets cheese specialists are always happy to help you make your selections. When preparing a cheese board, always start with a cheese-friendly surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a general guideline, when buying cheese for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per person per cheese.
Cheeses are best served in odd numbers (arranged according to flavor) with a common theme, like country of origin or type. Always use separate knives for each cheese and remember to serve them at room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per appetizer if you are serving them as a start to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in this format, you will not need to serve more than one or two options. Heavy hors doeuvres parties require quite a bit more. Traditionally, guests will consume a minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2 hour period.
In addition to providing individual-sized nibbles, it is always a good idea to consider including one or two composed platters such as fruit, grilled vegetables, spinach dip or hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain," in pursuit of great wine, Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all the different wine-growing regions; in Argentina, I learned about the families that produce wine, and the different grape varietals produced there; and in Spain, I learned about the unique styles of wine that come from that country." Spain holds a particularly special place in Shannon's heart — she says her favorite food and wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As for her favorite wine on its own, it's a three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of these varietals are completely different and have their own uniqueness about them."
Next time you're shopping in the wine department at El Dorado Hills, stop and talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If you're lucky, he might give you a few tips about ... basketball? "Not many guests know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship to play basketball at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John says. After his basketball career, he even stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil pipeline! These days, his focus is more on wine — though don't ask him what his favorite wine is, because he simply can't choose. "I like all of them!" he says. Similarly, he says his favorite food is "everything."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville Nugget Market
Having been in the wine-buying business for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville Wine Steward Brian Madden says that when he initially started working with wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon Bay needed someone to run the liquor department. My interest grew from the job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has traveled all over the world pursuing his passion for grapes, including to Spain, Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina. "Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite place to travel for the wine industry," Brian says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it for the depth of dark fruits, layering, balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy. Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working as a chef. After becoming involved with winemaker dinners and selecting wines for his restaurant's wine list, Michael made the transition to wine steward, and he is currently working on completing his certification as a Master Sommelier. Michael has also traveled extensively to the world's major food-and-wine regions, including the Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire Valley in France.
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods."
Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the Golden state, but he returned to his hometown of Sacramento, where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Every summer we base an issue of
the Wine Press on winners from the
California State Fair. This wine fair is
a very substantial tasting, where
nearly 3,000 California wines are
judged. However, for this issue we
decided to glean winners from an even
larger fair involving wines from all
over America — the San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale
Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this
event has really evolved over the
years. In its early stages, the
competition solely included wines
from northern Sonoma and southern
Mendocino Counties. It later
expanded to include wines from all
wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and
Lake Counties — then the entire state,
and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition has now
grown to become the largest
competition of American wines in the
world. From the 3,800 wines that were
entered in 2007, it has now risen to a
staggering 4,913 entries in 2010.
Today, 60 prestigious experts from
across America’s media, trade,
hospitality and education industries
join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from
California wineries. While there was
limited availability for most of the
out-of-state winners, we fortunately
had no trouble tracking down
outstanding Californian wines and
great values. Many of these winners
were already on our shelves, while
others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the
competition: Hahn SLH Pinot Noir
Double Gold Medal
"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At
$19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank
Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the
best value in Moscato. If you like your
wines with a touch of sweetness and a
little lower alcohol, this varietal is for
you. 750 ml. California Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free
Range RedGold Medal — Pinot Grigio and
Free Range RedNeed a white and a red for a big
shindig and don't know what to buy?
These would be perfect as BBQ wines
or for any casual function. The Pinot
Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing,
whereas the red blend is light to
medium bodied, with nice red berry
fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux) 2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet
SauvignonGold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double
Gold. It is one of three wines we are
featuring from the Hahn Winery — all
are values in their price bracket. This
is the lower tier in price, but not
quality; it has solid dark berry fruit
concentration and enough structure to
let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon.
750 ml. CaliforniaWith all these award winners on our
stores’ shelves for the next two
months, we know that you’re
guaranteed to find something you’ll
enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old
favorite or try something new — you
can’t go wrong with any of these
reccommendations. Ask a Wine
Steward in our stores if you have any
questions. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the
Wine Press on winners from the California
State Fair. This wine fair is a very
substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000
California wines are judged. However, for
this issue we decided to glean winners from
an even larger fair involving wines from all
over America — the San Francisco
Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus
Fair Wine Competition, this event has
really evolved over the years. In its early
stages, the competition solely included
wines from northern Sonoma and southern
Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to
include wines from all wineries in Sonoma,
Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the
entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle
Wine Competition has now grown to
become the largest competition of
American wines in the world. From the
3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it
has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries
in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from
across America’s media, trade, hospitality
and education industries join together to
judge these wines.Our picks for this issue all hail from
California wineries. While there was
limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here
to help you! Next time you’re in the wine
aisle in one of our stores struggling to
figure out which wine to pair with a steak
or a light salad, speak with one of our
knowledgable wine stewards. They are
always happy to help you make your
selection.Steve Graham, Wine Steward,
Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not
always have been an expert in fine wine
and cuisine, but he has long been employed
in the food industry. Take his first job: "I
was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the
newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says.
Today, Steve has graduated from fries to
wines, completing his first-level training
from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and
also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine
designation. Steve's other interests include
opera, soccer, and especially bicycling —
on his off time, he has volunteered at the
Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a
Certified Bike Technician from the United
Bicycle Institute. It may come as no
surprise, then, that Steve says one of his
favorite things is "a cold beer after a long,
hard bicycle ride."Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West
Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling,
West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom
Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is
probably the most mis-understood grape
varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan,
having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in
Washington state to learn more about the
varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of
aromas and flavors, and they pair very well
with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan
of many other wine varietals as well,
including Pinot Noir (for its complexity),
Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and
Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A
Sacramento native, Tom has lived all
across the state, but returned to his
hometown where he currently resides with
his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward,
Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward
Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy
living outside. Maybe that's why his
favorite product from Nugget's adult
beverage department is Knob Creek
Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're
camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha
says. Keeping with the outdoor theme,
Misha, who has been a Nugget associate
since 2003, says that his favorite food is
"barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky
flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha
also says he adheres to the wisdom passed
down to us by one of our founding fathers,
Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine Stewards Help Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s
finest from thelargest competition
of American wines in
the world
Ask one of these experts next time you need assistance in the wine aisle
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had
no trouble tracking down outstanding
Californian wines and great values. Many
of these winners were already on our
shelves, while others are welcome
newcomers.Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot Noir
Double Gold Medal
"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it
is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml.
Santa Lucia Highlands Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best
value in Moscato. If you like your wines
with a touch of sweetness and a little lower
alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml.
California Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range
RedGold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free
Range RedNeed a white and a red for a big shindig
and don't know what to buy? These would
be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual
unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and
refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red
berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux) 2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet
SauvignonGold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one
of three wines we are featuring from the
Hahn Winery — all are values in their price
bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but
not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit
concentration and enough structure to let
you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml.
California Round Hill Chardonnay
Gold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with
cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate,
it has lively acidity and a round, creamy
texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot,
nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky
finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml.
California Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet
SauvignonGold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine
than a regular 750ml bottle),
it is in probably the most environmen-
tally friendly wine package we have.
Great for camping or anywhere not suited
for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California 2008 Ravenswood Zinfandel
Gold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the
premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas
and flavors of raspberries, blueberries,
black cherries, and spicy hints of oak.
Well balanced, with supple tannins and a
long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a
pleasure to drink now and will be for the
next couple of years. 750 ml. California Loredona Viognier
Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee
and guava — complemented by crisp,
refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus
flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp
acidity and mineral notes. This elegant
Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of
dishes. 750 ml. Monterey With all these award winners on our
stores’ shelves for the next two months,
we know that you’re guaranteed to find
something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle
of an old favorite or try something new.
Dont be intimidated by the thought of
entertaining! Whether you’re having an
intimate gathering or an all-out bash,
Nugget Markets is always here to help
you make your party a success. Some
people shy away from the thought of
entertaining large parties in their homes,
but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is
some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the
biggest unknowns when planning a party.
How much wine should I get? How many
appetizers do people expect? It’s
important to keep guests satisfied, but at
the same time, not to overdo it and blow
your budget. Follow this handy guide for
help with some frequently asked
questions:How much wine do I need?
Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses
of wine. If you order a whole case of wine
(that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to
have enough for one glass of wine each
for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will
want to partake in more than just one
glass, so please plan accordingly. Also,
make sure to ask our wine stewards about
discount that may be available for large
wine purchases, and remember, when you
buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits,
you will receive a 10% discount (some
exclusions may apply, see a wine steward
for details). How should I serve cheese to my
guests?Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment
to a well-selected array of wines, and
Nugget Markets cheese specialists are
always happy to help you make your
selections. When preparing a cheese
board, always start with a cheese-friendly
surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a
general guideline, when buying cheese
for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per
person per cheese.Cheeses are best served in odd numbers
(arranged according to flavor) with a
common theme, like country of origin or
type. Always use separate knives for each
cheese and remember to serve them at
room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors
doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per
appetizer if you are serving them as a start
to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in
this format, you will not need to serve
more than one or two options. Heavy hors
doeuvres parties require quite a bit more.
Traditionally, guests will consume a
minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2
hour period. In addition to providing
individual-sized nibbles, it is always a
good idea to consider including one or
two composed platters such as fruit,
grilled vegetables, spinach dip or
hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Next time you're shopping in the wine
department at El Dorado Hills, stop and
talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If
you're lucky, he might give you a few tips
about ... basketball? "Not many guests
know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship
to play basketball at the University of
Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John
says. After his basketball career, he even
stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil
pipeline! These days, his focus is more on
wine — though don't ask him what his
favorite wine is, because he simply can't
choose. "I like all of them!" he says.
Similarly, he says his favorite food is
"everything." Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove
Nugget MarketShannon Rock has been known to travel
the globe in search of the next great wine
that she can share with Nugget Markets
guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina
and Spain," in pursuit of great wine,
Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all
the different wine-growing regions; in
Argentina, I learned about the families that
produce wine, and the different grape
varietals produced there; and in Spain, I
learned about the unique styles of wine that
come from that country." Spain holds a
particularly special place in Shannon's
heart — she says her favorite food and
wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As
for her favorite wine on its own, it's a
three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and
Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of
these varietals are completely different and
have their own uniqueness about them."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville
Nugget MarketHaving been in the wine-buying business
for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville
Wine Steward Brian Madden says that
when he initially started working with
wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I
need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon
Bay needed someone to run the liquor
department. My interest grew from the
job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has
traveled all over the world pursuing his
passion for grapes, including to Spain,
Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina.
"Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite
place to travel for the wine industry," Brian
says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent
grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it
for the depth of dark fruits, layering,
balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis
(Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward
Michael Taylor any questions you might
have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is
always willing to help, and his extensive
knowledge of wines will certainly come in
handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in
both areas, because before coming to
Nugget Market, he spent 17 years
working as a chef. After becoming
involved with winemaker dinners and
selecting wines for his restaurant's wine
list, Michael made the transition to wine
steward, and he is currently working on
completing his certification as a Master
Sommelier. Michael has also traveled
extensively to the world's major
food-and-wine regions, including the
Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region
in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire
Valley in France.Steve Graham, Wine Steward,
Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget
MarketWine Steward Steve Graham may not
always have been an expert in fine wine
and cuisine, but he has long been
employed in the food industry. Take his
first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at
Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise
Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has
graduated from fries to wines,
completing his first-level training from
the Court of Master Sommeliers, and
also attaining a Certified Specialist of
Wine designation. Steve's other interests
include opera, soccer, and especially
bicycling — on his off time, he has
volunteered at the Sacramento Bike
Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike
Technician from the United Bicycle
Institute. It may come as no surprise,
then, that Steve says one of his favorite
things is "a cold beer after a long, hard
bicycle ride." Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West
Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling,
West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom
Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is
probably the most mis-understood grape
varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a
fan, having traveled to Chateau St.
Michelle in Washington state to learn
more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer
a wide range of aromas and flavors, and
they pair very well with many foods." Of
course, Tom is a fan of many other wine
varietals as well, including Pinot Noir
(for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon
(for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its
accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom
has lived all across the state, but returned
to his hometown where he currently
resides with his wife and three children.
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk
Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to
travel the globe in search of the next
great wine that she can share with
Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled
to Italy, Argentina and Spain,” she says.
Gold Medal & Best of Class
This winery consistently over-delivers for the price. They are in the
heart of the Napa Valley and source from the best growers in the
area, in addition to their own outstanding fruit. Though this is the
most expensive wine in this issue, it was Best of Class in its price
bracket — Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon at its finest.
750 ml.
Napa Valley $53599
Gold Medal
All of Jeff Runquist's wines share
a theme of fresh fruit reflective of
the inherent varietal flavors. Jeff
selects grapes from vineyards that
provide rich, full flavors without
loads of astringent tannins. "When
I swirl this wine and put my nose
to the glass, I am reminded of a
freshly baked black cherry pie." —
Jeff Runquist. 750 ml. Amador County
Gold Medal
An ultra-premium Zinfandel from
a single vineyard in Amador's
Shenandoah Valley. Aromas of
deep black fruits, cassis, and
slight perfumed lavender. The
bouquet shows smoky oak,
chocolate, and hints of pie
crust. Big, ripe black raspberry
and plum flavors dominate, with
nuances of mocha and dark
chocolate. 750 ml. Amador County
2799 2199 $3
2009 Runquist Cooper Vineyard Barbera
2008 Runquist "Z" Zinfandel
2007 Sequoia Grove Cabernet Sauvignon
All prices subject to availablity, while supplies last.
Gold MedalBlends are hot! Born from select vineyards from some of the finest
growers in the Napa Valley (Spring Mountain, Oakville, Rutherford,
and Oak Knoll), this wine exhibits big, bold cherry and dark berry
fruit aromas and flavors. Aged 17 months in 75% French and 25%
American oak barrels, adding layers of complexity. 750 ml.
Napa Valley
Gold Medal The 2007 vintage was a beautiful wine; this one followed right up
with another award for the 2008. Though this winery makes a generic
California-appellated wine, this is a much better yet still inexpensive
Napa Valley version. Silky and ripe, with layers of cassis fruit and just the
right amount of both oak and tannin. 750 ml.
Napa Valley
Gold MedalFrom the best producer of Sangiovese in the foothills. This varietal is their
specialty, and they make many levels. This is the middle tier, and it is always
spot-on. Nice tart cherry flavors, with good acidity. Perfect to pair with
tomato-based sauces. 750 ml.
Amador County
2008 Avalon Cabernet Sauvignon
2008 Noceto Sangiovese
2007 Moniz Family Winery Cuvee Alexandria
1399 $4
1599 $2
1699 $3
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition:
Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual function. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
With all these award winners on our stores’ shelves for the next two months, we know that you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old favorite or try something new — you can’t go wrong with any of these reccommendations. Ask a Wine Steward in our stores if you have any questions. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here to help you! Next time you’re in the wine aisle in one of our stores struggling to figure out which wine to pair with a steak or a light salad, speak with one of our knowledgable wine stewards. They are always happy to help you make your selection.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward, Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy living outside. Maybe that's why his favorite product from Nugget's adult beverage department is Knob Creek Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha says. Keeping with the outdoor theme, Misha, who has been a Nugget associate since 2003, says that his favorite food is "barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha also says he adheres to the wisdom passed down to us by one of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine Stewards Help Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s finest from thelargest competition of American wines in the world
Ask one of these experts next time you need assistance in the wine aisle
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
Round Hill ChardonnayGold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate, it has lively acidity and a round, creamy texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot, nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml. California
Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine than a regular 750ml bottle),
it is in probably the most environmen-tally friendly wine package we have. Great for camping or anywhere not suited for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California
2008 Ravenswood ZinfandelGold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas and flavors of raspberries, blueberries, black cherries, and spicy hints of oak. Well balanced, with supple tannins and a long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a pleasure to drink now and will be for the next couple of years. 750 ml. California
Loredona Viognier Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee and guava — complemented by crisp, refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp acidity and mineral notes. This elegant Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of dishes. 750 ml. Monterey
With all these award winners on our stores’ shelves for the next two months, we know that you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll enjoy. Pick up a bottle of an old favorite or try something new.
Dont be intimidated by the thought of entertaining! Whether you’re having an intimate gathering or an all-out bash, Nugget Markets is always here to help you make your party a success. Some people shy away from the thought of entertaining large parties in their homes, but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the biggest unknowns when planning a party. How much wine should I get? How many appetizers do people expect? It’s important to keep guests satisfied, but at the same time, not to overdo it and blow your budget. Follow this handy guide for help with some frequently asked questions:
How much wine do I need?Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses of wine. If you order a whole case of wine (that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to have enough for one glass of wine each for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will want to partake in more than just one glass, so please plan accordingly. Also, make sure to ask our wine stewards about discount that may be available for large wine purchases, and remember, when you buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits, you will receive a 10% discount (some exclusions may apply, see a wine steward for details).
How should I serve cheese to my guests?
Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment to a well-selected array of wines, and Nugget Markets cheese specialists are always happy to help you make your selections. When preparing a cheese board, always start with a cheese-friendly surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a general guideline, when buying cheese for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per person per cheese.
Cheeses are best served in odd numbers (arranged according to flavor) with a common theme, like country of origin or type. Always use separate knives for each cheese and remember to serve them at room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per appetizer if you are serving them as a start to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in this format, you will not need to serve more than one or two options. Heavy hors doeuvres parties require quite a bit more. Traditionally, guests will consume a minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2 hour period.
In addition to providing individual-sized nibbles, it is always a good idea to consider including one or two composed platters such as fruit, grilled vegetables, spinach dip or hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Next time you're shopping in the wine department at El Dorado Hills, stop and talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If you're lucky, he might give you a few tips about ... basketball? "Not many guests know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship to play basketball at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John says. After his basketball career, he even stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil pipeline! These days, his focus is more on wine — though don't ask him what his favorite wine is, because he simply can't choose. "I like all of them!" he says. Similarly, he says his favorite food is "everything."
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain," in pursuit of great wine, Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all the different wine-growing regions; in Argentina, I learned about the families that produce wine, and the different grape varietals produced there; and in Spain, I learned about the unique styles of wine that come from that country." Spain holds a particularly special place in Shannon's heart — she says her favorite food and wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As for her favorite wine on its own, it's a three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of these varietals are completely different and have their own uniqueness about them."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville Nugget Market
Having been in the wine-buying business for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville Wine Steward Brian Madden says that when he initially started working with wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon Bay needed someone to run the liquor department. My interest grew from the job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has traveled all over the world pursuing his passion for grapes, including to Spain, Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina. "Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite place to travel for the wine industry," Brian says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it for the depth of dark fruits, layering, balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working as a chef. After becoming involved with winemaker dinners and selecting wines for his restaurant's wine list, Michael made the transition to wine steward, and he is currently working on completing his certification as a Master Sommelier. Michael has also traveled extensively to the world's major food-and-wine regions, including the Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire Valley in France.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Shannon Rock, Wine Steward, Elk Grove Nugget Market
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain,” she says.
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition:
Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of
the fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual function. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last
year when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
These wines are all award winners, and you can’t go wrong with any of these recommendations. We know it can be daunting to pick out the perfect wine, so if you’re still having trouble deciding, keep in mind that you can always ask a Wine Steward in our stores if you have any questions. We know you’ll find something that you love. Cheers!
Every summer we base an issue of the Wine Press on winners from the California State Fair. This wine fair is a very substantial tasting, where nearly 3,000 California wines are judged. However, for this issue we decided to glean winners from an even larger fair involving wines from all over America — the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Founded in 1983 as the Cloverdale Citrus Fair Wine Competition, this event has really evolved over the years. In its early stages, the competition solely included wines from northern Sonoma and southern Mendocino Counties. It later expanded to include wines from all wineries in Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties — then the entire state, and finally the entire country!
The renamed San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition has now grown to become the largest competition of American wines in the world. From the 3,800 wines that were entered in 2007, it has now risen to a staggering 4,913 entries in 2010. Today, 60 prestigious experts from across America’s media, trade, hospitality and education industries join together to judge these wines.
Our picks for this issue all hail from California wineries. While there was limited availability for most of the
Nugget Markets’ wine stewards are here to help you! Next time you’re in the wine aisle in one of our stores struggling to figure out which wine to pair with a steak or a light salad, speak with one of our knowledgable wine stewards. They are always happy to help you make your selection.
Steve Graham, Wine Steward, Sacramento (Florin Road) Nugget Market
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods." Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the state, but returned to his hometown where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
Mikael "Misha" Johnson, Wine Steward, Roseville Nugget Market
A little-known fact about Wine Steward Misha Johnson: He says he would be happy living outside. Maybe that's why his favorite product from Nugget's adult beverage department is Knob Creek Bourbon. "It keeps you warm when you're camping, and it goes down smooth," Misha says. Keeping with the outdoor theme, Misha, who has been a Nugget associate since 2003, says that his favorite food is "barbecue anything. I love sweet, smoky flavors, and grilling is always fun." Misha also says he adheres to the wisdom passed down to us by one of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin, who said, "Beer is
Award Winnersin Store
Wine’s Friendly Faces Tips & Tricksfor Party Bliss
Northern California Wines Named Among Best in World
The Golden State’s finest from thelargest competition of American wines in the world
Get to know Nugget Markets’ wine stewards, who are always available to help
out-of-state winners, we fortunately had no trouble tracking down outstanding Californian wines and great values. Many of these winners were already on our shelves, while others are welcome newcomers.
Among our favorites at the competition: Hahn SLH Pinot NoirDouble Gold Medal"This may be the best Pinot Noir of the
fair. It is exceptional at $30.00. At $19.99 it is mind blowing!" —Hank Beal. 750 ml. Santa Lucia Highlands
Barefoot MoscatoGold MedalMoscato is currently a very popular
varietal, and Barefoot is arguably the best value in Moscato. If you like your wines with a touch of sweetness and a little lower alcohol, this varietal is for you. 750 ml. California
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Gold Medal — Pinot Grigio and Free Range Red
Need a white and a red for a big shindig and don't know what to buy? These would be perfect as BBQ wines or for any casual unction. The Pinot Grigio is light, crisp and refreshing, whereas the red blend is
light to medium bodied, with nice red berry fruit. 750 ml. France (Bordeaux)
Round Hill ChardonnayGold Medal"This wine has straw-gold color, with
fruity aromas of apple and apricot with cinnamon spice and vanilla. On the palate, it has lively acidity and a round, creamy texture. Filled with flavors of dried apricot, nectarine and barrel spice with a soft, silky finish." —Round Hiill Winery. 750 ml. California
Three Thieves NV Bandit Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalNot only is the wine excellent and a great
value (the 1L box offers 33% more wine than a regular 750ml bottle),
2009 Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Gold MedalThis is a repeat winner from last year
when the 2008 won Double Gold. It is one of three wines we are featuring from the Hahn Winery — all are values in their price bracket. This is the lower tier in price, but not quality; it has solid dark berry fruit concentration and enough structure to let you know it is Cabernet Sauvigon. 750 ml. California
it is in probably the most environmentally friendly wine package we have. Great for camping or anywhere not suited for a glass bottle. 1 ltr. California
2008 Ravenswood ZinfandelGold MedalA California blended wine, this is a
super-reliable old standby from one of the premiere producers of Zinfandel. Aromas and flavors of raspberries, blueberries, black cherries, and spicy hints of oak. Well balanced, with supple tannins and a long, fruit-forward finish, this wine is a pleasure to drink now and will be for the next couple of years. 750 ml. California
Loredona Viognier Gold MedalOffers aromas of sweet oranges, white
peaches and apricots, with a hint of lychee and guava — complemented by crisp, refreshing, luscious nectarine and citrus flavors on the palate, balanced with crisp acidity and mineral notes. This elegant Viognier is a perfect match for a variety of dishes. 750 ml. Monterey
We’ve got all of these award winners on our shelves and on sale for the next two months, so we hope you’ll stop by and check them out. You might find your new favorite!
Dont be intimidated by the thought of entertaining! Whether you’re having an intimate gathering or an all-out bash, Nugget Markets is always here to help you make your party a success. Some people shy away from the thought of entertaining large parties in their homes, but all it takes to throw a fantastic fete is some careful planning.
Food and drinks can be some of the biggest unknowns when planning a party. How much wine should I get? How many appetizers do people expect? It’s important to keep guests satisfied, but at the same time, not to overdo it and blow your budget. Follow this handy guide for help with some frequently asked questions:
How much wine do I need?Always estimate that one 750 ml. bottle
will come out to about five 5 oz. glasses of wine. If you order a whole case of wine (that’s 12 bottles), then you can expect to have enough for one glass of wine each for 60 guests. Of course, many guests will want to partake in more than just one glass, so please plan accordingly. Also, make sure to ask our wine stewards about discount that may be available for large wine purchases, and remember, when you buy six 750 ml. bottles of wine or spirits, you will receive a 10% discount (some exclusions may apply, see a wine steward for details).
How should I serve cheese to my guests?
Cheese makes a perfect accompaniment to a well-selected array of wines, and Nugget Markets cheese specialists are always happy to help you make your selections. When preparing a cheese board, always start with a cheese-friendly surface, such as wood, tile or marble. As a general guideline, when buying cheese for a party, get about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces per person per cheese.
Cheeses are best served in odd numbers (arranged according to flavor) with a common theme, like country of origin or type. Always use separate knives for each cheese and remember to serve them at room temperature for best flavor.
How many appetizers and hors doeuvres should I get?
Anticipate 3 pieces per person per appetizer if you are serving them as a start to a larger, more formal meal. Usually in this format, you will not need to serve more than one or two options. Heavy hors doeuvres parties require quite a bit more. Traditionally, guests will consume a minimum of 10 to 12 pieces in a 2 to 2 1/2 hour period.
In addition to providing individual-sized nibbles, it is always a good idea to consider including one or two composed platters such as fruit, grilled vegetables, spinach dip or hummus, or antipasto.
Nugget Markets’ Wine Press collects the best wines as named by San Francisco Chronical Wine Competition
Shannon Rock has been known to travel the globe in search of the next great wine that she can share with Nugget Markets guests. "I have traveled to Italy, Argentina and Spain," in pursuit of great wine, Shannon says. "In Italy, I learned about all the different wine-growing regions; in Argentina, I learned about the families that produce wine, and the different grape varietals produced there; and in Spain, I learned about the unique styles of wine that come from that country." Spain holds a particularly special place in Shannon's heart — she says her favorite food and wine pairing is Spanish wine with tapas. As for her favorite wine on its own, it's a three-way tie. "Cabernet, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir," Shannon says. "Each one of these varietals are completely different and have their own uniqueness about them."
Next time you're shopping in the wine department at El Dorado Hills, stop and talk to Wine Steward John Seymour. If you're lucky, he might give you a few tips about ... basketball? "Not many guests know it, but I received a 2-year scholarship to play basketball at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks in the early '70s," John says. After his basketball career, he even stayed on to work on an Alaskan oil pipeline! These days, his focus is more on wine — though don't ask him what his favorite wine is, because he simply can't choose. "I like all of them!" he says. Similarly, he says his favorite food is "everything."
Brian Madden, Wine Steward, Vacaville Nugget Market
Having been in the wine-buying business for nearly a quarter of a century, Vacaville Wine Steward Brian Madden says that when he initially started working with wine, he had no real interest in the field. "I need a job and the Safeway in Half Moon Bay needed someone to run the liquor department. My interest grew from the job." Now an expert in the field, Brian has traveled all over the world pursuing his passion for grapes, including to Spain, Germany, Alaska, Chile and Argentina. "Mendoza, Argentina has been my favorite place to travel for the wine industry," Brian says. "The Malbec grape is the prominent grape varietal for Argentina, and I love it for the depth of dark fruits, layering, balance and value for the dollar."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy. Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working
Wine Steward Steve Graham may not always have been an expert in fine wine and cuisine, but he has long been employed in the food industry. Take his first job: "I was the Chief French Fryer at Herfy's in the newly opened Sunrise Mall," Steve says. Today, Steve has graduated from fries to wines, completing his first-level training from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and also attaining a Certified Specialist of Wine designation. Steve's other interests include opera, soccer, and especially bicycling — on his off time, he has volunteered at the Sacramento Bike Kitchen, and he is also a Certified Bike Technician from the United Bicycle Institute. It may come as no surprise, then, that Steve says one of his favorite things is "a cold beer after a long, hard bicycle ride."
Michael Taylor, Wine Steward, Davis (Covell Blvd.) Nugget Market
Don't be afraid to ask Wine Steward Michael Taylor any questions you might have about fine wine or fine cuisine. He is always willing to help, and his extensive knowledge of wines will certainly come in handy.
Michael boasts expert knowledge in both areas, because before coming to Nugget Market, he spent 17 years working as a chef. After becoming involved with winemaker dinners and selecting wines for his restaurant's wine list, Michael made the transition to wine steward, and he is currently working on completing his certification as a Master Sommelier. Michael has also traveled extensively to the world's major food-and-wine regions, including the Rioja region in Spain, the Douro region in Portugal, and Bordeaux and the Loire Valley in France.
Tom Longinotti, Wine Steward, West Sacramento Nugget Market
If you've got a question about Riesling, West Sacramento Wine Steward Tom Longinotti is the man to ask. "Riesling is probably the most mis-understood grape varietal," Tom says. Despite this, he's a fan, having traveled to Chateau St. Michelle in Washington state to learn more about the varietal. "Rieslings offer a wide range of aromas and flavors, and they pair very well with many foods."
Of course, Tom is a fan of many other wine varietals as well, including Pinot Noir (for its complexity), Cabernet Sauvignon (for its boldness) and Petite Sirah (for its accessibility). A Sacramento native, Tom has lived all across the Golden state, but he returned to his hometown of Sacramento, where he currently resides with his wife and three children.
The prices in this publication are effective from March 1, 2011 to April 30, 2011, while supplies last. Subject to availability. Not all items are available at all stores. We reserve the right to correct all printed or typographical errors. No rain checks.
Extra, extra! Try these award-winners!
2009 Bota Box Shiraz
Three Thieves Bandit Cabernet Sauvignon
Double Gold Medal
Good wine can come in a box! This is
equivalent to four 750ml bottles, working out to
$4.50 per bottle. If you want a wine you don't
have to think about too much and you just
want flavorful juicy fruit, this is for you. It will stay
fresh for weeks in this bag-in-box format. 3 liters.
California
Gold Medal
Not only is the wine excellent and a great value (the 1L box
offers 33% more wine than a regular 750ml bottle), it is in
probably the most environmentally friendly packages we
have in our wine department. Great for taking on a picnic
or camping or anywhere you don’t want to have to worry
about the glass bottle. 1 liter.
California
$31799
$3699
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