Page 14 - Boca Club News - June '24

Page 14, Boca Club News
Grape Expectations: Testing My “Taste Buds”

at the American Fine Wine Competition

By Ed Wolfarth, who recently Outstanding Winners in THE Rosé Competition 2024! or grape varieties. Through blind tastings, these wines are
moved to South Florida after The prestigious competition, which encompasses both THE evaluated solely on their merits, uncovering hidden gems
retiring with his wife, Vicki, as Rosé Competition and The Invitational (held in January), that may originate from unexpected sources like a can or
Professor of Sports Sciences & has crowned the 2023 JOLO Pink from JOLO Winery & from states such as Iowa, Michigan, or Texas. THE Rosé
Physical Education at both Queens Vineyards, located in Pilot Mountain, North Carolina, as Competition truly celebrates the diverse and delightful
College and Hofstra University. the champion ($32). Described by the judges as exhibiting spectrum that rosé wines have to offer.
He is a nationally ranked senior notes of white peach, melon, and citrus on the nose, with pink Celebrating Excellence and Philanthropy in the World of
tennis player and long-time USPTA grapefruit flavors on the palate and a delightful finish, this Wine: Highlights from THE Rosé Competition 2024.
Elite Teaching Professional. Ed has wine is celebrated for its crisp and elegant profile. Notably, Esteemed Writer and AFWC Judge, Fred Bollaci,
written many educational and tennis articles in the past. JOLO Winery & Vineyards has secured the Best of Show title eloquently underscores the profound impact of esteemed
Over the past few years, Ed has turned his hobby of wine in the “Dry/Still” category for the second consecutive year–a wine competitions such as THE Rosé Competition and The
collecting into a way of continuing his passion for writing, remarkable achievement deserving of hearty congratulations! Invitational. “These distinguished events serve as gateways
and has written on the subject for publications. As a self- In the Sparkling Rosé category, the prestigious Best of for discerning consumers to immerse themselves in a diverse
proclaimed “wine snob,” he has collaborated on many Show title was bestowed upon V. Sattui Prestige Cuvée from array of wines spanning various price points, including
wine lists for private clubs and a few restaurants. Ed can North Coast, priced at $50. The judges were captivated by its selections from boutique wineries nestled in both renowned
be reached at wolfarthe@msn.com. exquisite intensity, showcasing vibrant strawberry and floral and lesser-known wine regions. This symbiotic relationship
This past month I was invited down to Miami for notes on the nose, and a sophisticated profile that culminates not only enriches wineries and consumers but also extends
the annual Rose tasting put on by the AFWC; that’s the in a long, gratifying finish. support to charitable causes championed by the AFWC.”
American Fine Wine Competition. This prestigious Moving to the Sparkling Sweet Rosé category, the highest Reflecting on the 2024 AFWC Rosé Competition,
organization awards Gold, Silver and Bronze medals to accolade was secured by Iowa’s non-vintage Tassel Ridge, Judge Taylor Gang articulates a sentiment of delight and
deserving producers across the country. As a past judge Rockets Glare Rosé! The unexpected victory of an Iowa enrichment. “The event provided a platform for participants
I was delighted to be invited again and looked forward wine adds an element of surprise and excitement to THE to savor an eclectic spectrum of rosé styles, ranging from
to testing my “taste buds” along with other professionals Rosé Competition. The judges were enchanted by its hints of traditional to avant-garde, sourced from both conventional
including winemakers, restaurant owners and sommeliers. creamed sherry and dried berries, likening it to a delightful and unconventional wine regions.” Judge Gang commends
The diversity of opinions, and yet on another level the dessert in a glass. “the meticulous organization of the competition by AFWC
agreement on many wines, was quite thought-provoking. This year, the event “Fifty Shades of Pink” followed THE and the unwavering dedication of its volunteers, ensuring a
Blind tastings are devoid of preconceived notions, devoid Rosé Competition 2024 and was held on April 21st also at seamless and gratifying experience for all involved.”
of price, and truly says what’s in the bottle! FIU Chaplin School. The event benefited both End Childhood Judge and esteemed Wine writer, Ed Wolfarth, underscores
Below is the full press release put out by the American Hunger and the Joel Feigenheimer Endowment Fund. The “the essence of blind tastings in unearthing the true essence
Fine Wine Competition. It describes what occurred at the event featured scores of magnificent award-winning Rosé of a wine, devoid of any preconceived biases related to price
event. Enjoy! I did. wines plus fine red and white wines from AFWC’s The or producers.” Wolfarth emphasizes that “the essence of
South Florida–May 14th, 2024. The American Fine Invitational. Since its inception, AFWC has donated more exceptional wine lies in the harmonious blend of artistry and
Wine Competition’s THE Rosé Competition 2024, which than $1,250,000 to charity. scientific precision, transcending mere marketing strategies.”
benefits multiple charities, is thrilled to unveil the outcomes Certified Sommelier and AFWC Judge, Zack Foley, A full list of results can be found at: https://www.
of its eleventh annual event, hosted along with FIU Chaplin expressed his enthusiasm for judging THE Rosé Competition, americanfinewinecompetition.org/the-rose-2024.
School of Hospitality & Tourism Management in North highlighting the enlightening experience it provides in Congratulations to these exceptional Rosé wines and all
Miami, Florida on Saturday, April 20th, 2024. showcasing exceptional wines from lesser-known regions the winners.
Get Fresh! Tips from The Produce Maven…

Gorgeous, Sweet, Luscious Cherries.

Irving Swedko and his wife, a light, sweet delicate taste…and the tangy Montmorency When it comes to choosing cherries freshness is key. Opt
Beverly, are members of Broken red sour cherries are perfect for pies and preserves. for plump, firm cherries—they’re fresher and tastier. Soft
Sound Club. He hails from Ottawa, Depending on where you live, cherries will likely start cherries, on the other hand, might be on their way out. To keep
the capital of Canada, where he to appear on the shelves around late May or early June, cherries at their peak store them in the refrigerator where they
spent more than 50 years in the and can stick around as late as mid-August. But the very will stay crisp and delicious for five to seven days. And if you
produce business that included best time to bring a basket full is during their peak in July, can’t finish them all fast enough…no problem! Cherries freeze
taking a small fruit and vegetable right in the heart of summer. beautifully, preserving their flavor for a treat later.
retail store and expanding it
to include wholesale, food service and importing, bringing Second Helpings: A Favorite
across the city and into other areas
trucks of fresh produce from across the U.S. directly into
produce-related, from how to select the perfect melon to Recipe from the Past Pages of
Ottawa. His experience made him an expert on all things

the best way to store fruits and veggies. After retiring,
been enjoying life at Broken Sound for 20 seasons. He is Boca Club News…Oven Baked
Irving and his wife Beverly became snowbirds and have
the proud father of three daughters and looks forward to
On May 18th, 1980, Mount Saint Helens erupted Parmesan-Dijon Chicken Wings
family time with his seven grandchildren.

spewing a column of ashes that lasted for nine hours and
was 15 miles high. This earthquake deposited ashes in 11 If you think store-bought crispy chicken wings are Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
states and some Canadian provinces. Hundreds of square a treat, wait till you bite into one of these, with a tangy Remove from heat; add mustard and whisk to blend. Brush
miles were reduced to wasteland, resulting in 75 deaths. blend of parmesan cheese and Dijon mustard. Talk about wings generously with butter mixture, then roll in breadcrumb
The damage caused by this natural disaster was lip-smackin’ good! mixture, coating wings evenly and completely.
equivalent to 3.4 billion in today’s dollars and 40% of Serves 6 people – Arrange chicken on prepared baking sheets.
Washington’s cherry crop was lost. In some cases the 4 wings per person Bake wings until golden brown and cooked through, about
volcanic ashes were good for the soil, helping to retain Ingredients: 30 minutes; serve hot.
moisture. 3 cups Panko bread crumbs
More than a juicy and delicious summertime treat, 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
cherries are versatile and packed with health benefits. 5 Tbsp chopped Italian parsley
Washington, Oregon and California are top cherry- 4 Tbsp onion powder
producing states in the U.S., employing around 20,000 1 Tbsp paprika
people during peak season. Cherries pack a powerful 1 Tbsp dried oregano
nutritional punch. With a low glycemic index and a 2 Tbsp kosher salt
host of vitamins and antioxidants—including vitamin 1 ½ Tbsp. black pepper
C, potassium, melatonin, phenols, quercetin and 1 ½ cups butter
anthocyanins—cherries are hailed as a superfood that ½ cup Dijon mustard
can help reduce blood pressure, manage sugar levels and 2 dozen chicken wings
even promote better sleep. Directions:
If you’re looking for variety in your fruit, look no Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter
further than the beautiful little cherry. There are over 2 large rimmed baking sheets.
1,200 types of cherries globally, each with its own unique Combine breadcrumbs, parmesan
flavor profile and uses. Among the most famous are Lapin cheese, parsley, onion powder,
dark cherries, known for their deep sweetness. Rainier paprika, oregano, salt and pepper
cherries, with their golden hue and delicate red blush, have in a large bowl; mix well.