This project was first announced just ahead of harvest 2016. The intent of the announcement was just to give producers an opportunity to practice and/or focus a little more attention on their rosé wine heading into 2017. I listed, as an example, some potential parameters we may look at as a means of unifying the wine style, and strengthening the brand.
The 2nd part is where you all come in. We’re going to create an opportunity for group blind evaluations of several rosé wines. In January and early February, I will hold 3 sensory training/evaluation workshops. These workshops will be open to grape and wine producers, retailers, distributors, food professionals, and other advocates for our industry. We’ll have a lot of work to do, and they’ll run at least 4 hrs, probably scheduled from 1-5. Because of this, and because our budget is limited, there will be a cost to participants to cover venue and food costs associated with the event.
November 2016 Roundtable meetings, collection of wines for analysis – done!
April 2017 Create competition category for Illinois Rosé, include parameters established by 1st sensory workshop.
March 2018 Launch marketing campaign to public, begin assessing wines from 2017 harvest?
You must RSVP to attend this event. Send RSVPs to brad@illinoiswine.com. The suggested donation will be $10/person (at the door).
That’s all for now. Best to all of you this holiday season!