St. Supéry & Cyprus: Historic Wine Siblings
On the other side of the planet, a wine-making success story inspired by tradition and respect for the land is thriving on the West Coast of the United States. While American wine is still a novelty for the global oenophiles, its export is increasing steady. Stunningly, 95% of the international demand is focused on Californian wineries. St. Supéry Estate is one of the state’s best-kept secrets, covering some of the most celebrated terroir in the famous Napa Valley. How special is this place? When luxury icon Chanel bought it, it became maison’s first vineyard outside of France! European joie de vivre finally met signature Californian cool to create a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
As an enthusiastic fan since 2016, I can confirm the near-impossibility of getting an in-season Veggies + Vino or tour reservation at the property. When pandemic made in-person visits impossible, St. Supéry became one of the first North American wineries to embrace the New Normal of virtual wine-tastings to stay connected with its patrons and reach new audiences with its exclusive line of 100% estate-grown, certified-sustainable wines. The program of guided wine pairings proved so successful the digital events calendar has been extended throughout 2021. “Our live Napa Valley lifestyle programs broadcast on the first two Thursdays of every month through December. We feature industry experts, real-time updates from the vineyard and winery, and a cooking demonstration. We hope to inspire you and bring you a little joy,” says CEO Emma Swain, who personally moderates many of the sessions. With spring evenings getting longer and more luminous, this idea appears effortlessly attractive. An opinionated conversation among new friends over a glass (or few) of excellent wine in the curated comfort of my home? Don’t mind if I do.
Each broadcast focuses on a singular wine and the story behind its origins and process. Estate Chef Tod Kawachi gives a cooking demonstration of an expertly paired menu. The dishes are announced well in advance so you can prepare at home or follow along. The events are then archived in the YouTube library. The virtual wine-tasting programming for the months of May and June focuses on sustainable seafood recipes and a corresponding selection of award-winning wines. How about a Seafood Raw Bar paired with St. Supéry’s own Sauvignon Blanc or Moscato, rich chowder of oysters, clams and shellfish to go with 2019 Napa Valley Estate Virtú or even a “blasphemous” (or as we’d say in America, rebellious) combination of fish and red wine like the 2016 Rutherford Estate Vineyard Merlot. There are plenty of stimulating ideas to share. Set sail from California to Cyprus with St. Supéry to learn more about the fascinating history and future of American wines!
