Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/101724
ON THE AER WITH VINTURI As part of his barrel tasting program, Ross will often borrow a Vinturi Red Wine Aerator from the tasting bar (where it is used on a regular basis) to demonstrate the effects and the importance of aerating wine. "I'm often asked by visitors if the Vinturi Aerators really work, and my answer is always the same: Absolutely. Ross states that he'll most often bring out " the Red Wine Aerator when testing rugged, heavybodied wines like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Petite Sirah. "The aerator is an accelerated form of decanting, and is an ideal way to open big, bold reds that have been aging for a few years. It's imperative to aerate these heavy reds in order to enjoy their full proiles, and it's always fun to watch the reactions of the tasters when they see for themselves the effect the Vinturi aerator has in such a short amount of time. " For more information, visit www.vinturi.com or call 1-877-VINTURI (846-8874). Cosentino's The Poet, vintage 1986, was America's first Meritage blend. Pictured here is the 2008 release. "Most consumers don't realize how much of an effect a barrel has on the wine it contains, so to demonstrate the importance of a strong barrel program I like to have guests taste a vintage that's stored in new oak, followed by a sampling of the same wine that's being stored in reused oak," says Ross. This dual-barrel tasting is the heart of the education station, and a key ingredient in the experience that Ross provides to his tour groups. In addition to his role as Cellar Master, Ross travels the country on behalf of the winery, working with regional managers and hosting winemaker dinners. Prior to his current position, Ross served as the Director of Wine Education for Vintage Wine Estates (Cosentino's parent company), and later as a Regional Vice President for the company, responsible for sales and distribution in two-thirds of the United States. "I'm proud to be a part of one of the most distinctive wineries in the country, and to help Cosentino continue in the tradition of innovation and creativity upon which it was founded," says Ross. "From the release of America's irst Meritage wine, The Poet, in 1989 (a 1986 vintage), to a 2011 Russian River Pinot Noir that I'm currently featuring in the barrel tasting program, Cosentino never disappoints, and always pleasantly surprises." january 2013 / the tasting panel / 51