Clover Hill spring events

Buck A Bottle Shipping Special
All Clover Hill locations and online at www.cloverhillwinery.com
April 6-9
This is your chance to stock up on Clover Hill wine for the Spring and Summer. Purchase 6 or more bottles and we will ship them for only a 'Buck A Bottle' shipping cost. We will ship your favorite Clover Hill wines right to your door - must order a minimum of 6 bottles. If you order a case, 12 bottles, or more we will also give you our 10% case discount. Shop at www.cloverhillwinery.com or call 610-395-2468 to place your order.


Spring Flights - Pierogie Party
The Winery in Breinigsville
May 6, 7, 8 & 9 from noon - 4 pm each day
Reservations Required (limited availability)
$12 per flight

Who does not love pierogies? Here at Clover Hill we love pierogies so much we are going to offer flights of various types of pierogies. You can decide if you want a sweet flight or a dry flight and we will have wines and pierogies prepared accordingly. Each flight will include 3 different pierogies and will end with a dessert. It doesn't get much better than that! Be sure to make your reservation as soon as possible because these tickets are sure to sell out fast. Give us a call to reserve your tickets and let us know if you want the sweet flight or the dry flight. Please call 610-395-2468 to reserve your flights.


Mother's Day Special
The Winery in Breinigsville
May 14 from noon - 4 pm

It's Mom's Day and what better way to say "Thanks Mom" or "I Love You Mom" than with a glass of wine and a bottle to take home. Join us at the Winery in Breinigsville for discounted wine by the glass specials.

Six new wine releases at Clover Hill this summer

Our Winemaker John Skrip III has been busy and is excited to share six new Clover Hill wines with you. 2015 was a kind vintage to our red wines. We had great quality with our red grape varieties, but the trade off is we have very little yield. That means all of the 2015 vintages listed below are in limited supply. Taste them while you can! Tasting is complimentary for these wines at all Clover Hill locations.

• 2015 Dolcetto: a dry rosé that is light, fresh, and fruity with a green apple finish. This release of Dolcetto has just a slight bit of fizz. $13.99 
• 2015 Sangiovese: a medium bodied dry red wine. Sangiovese shows rich flavors of black cherry and ripe plum with toasty American (PA) oak undertones. $16.99 
• 2015 Pinot Noir: This vintage of Pinot a bit fuller bodied than previous years and it is truly a superstar! The wine is full of classic strawberry characteristics and soft oak notes. $16.99 
• 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon: This Cabernet is packed with rich oak flavors of vanilla and spice from French oak aging and ripe fruit flavors of raspberry, blackberry and cherry. $17.99 

These two wines are limited release and are available for sale at all locations while supplies last, but ONLY available for tasting at the Winery in Breinigsville on a regular basis. Due to the very limited nature of these wines, there are tasting fees.

• Sparkling Vidal Blanc: Welcome Clover Hill's newest sparkling wine. This bubbly is made from 100% Vidal Blanc with crisp flavors of lemon and grapefruit with soft, yeasty undertones. $16.99/bottle; $3 for a 1oz tasting fee 
• 2016 Vidal Ice Wine: Our Ice Wine is back! This Ice Wine was hand harvested in January 2016. The berries were dehydrated, frozen solid and rich in flavor and sweetness. The harvest was basket pressed and yielded 1,500 bottles of Vidal Ice Wine; or as we like to call it...liquid gold. The flavors are complex and rich including honeycomb, orange blossom and bright acidity. $32/bottle (187ml); $6 for a 1oz tasting fee

1st Tuesday Tours
The Winery in Breinigsville
Tuesday, August 2 at 2 p.m.
Reservations suggested; $8 per person (Tuesday special)
No charge for under 21.

Join Clover Hill Winery for a Tuesday tour. We will show you the Clover Hill way from the grape to the glass! Tours last approximately 1 ½ hours and we sample a few wines as we tour. Tour groups are limited in size so please make advanced reservations by calling 610-395-2468. Please dress casually as comfortable shoes are suggested since this is a walking tour. Handicap accessible.

Harvest Flights with Bites
The Winery in Breinigsville
August 13, 14, 15 and 16, noon - 5 p.m. all days
Tickets required - $12 per flight

Purchase your flight ticket, pick your day you plan on attending, and choose between the winemaker (dry flight option) or the vineyard worker's flight (sweet flight option). Each flight will consist of four samplings of food each paired with a different wine. Check back for the menu. Please call 610-395-2468 or visit the Winery in Breinigsville for your tickets.

Summertime winery events at Clover Hill

Public Vineyard and Winery Tours
The Winery in Breinigsville
July 17 at 2 p.m.
Reservations required; $12 per person. No charge for under 21.

Join Clover Hill Winery for a vineyard and winery tour. We will show you the Clover Hill way from the grape to the glass! Tours last approximately 1.5 hours and we sample a few wines as we tour. Tour groups are limited in size so please make advanced reservations by calling 610-395-2468. Please dress casually as comfortable shoes are suggested since this is a walking tour. Handicap accessible.

Thirsty Thursday with Tastings and Tours
Clover Hill Winery and Vynecrest
K'town Pub and Saucony Creek Brewing
Thursday, July 14, August 18; September 15 from 1-6 p.m.
Reservations required and are limited in availability; $50 per person. Must be 21 years of age.

Join Tasting and Tours for a Thirsty Thursday wine and beer tour. Attendees receive a private tasting and mini tour at Vynecrest Winery and Clover Hill Winery, and a flight of local beer with hors d'oeuvres at both the K'town Pub and Saucony Creek Brewing. Tastings and Tours will provide your transportation and an awesome experience with insider information at each of the four stops. The first tour begins at 1 p.m. and ends at 6 p.m. Grab some friends, pick your date and let's do Thirsty Thursday! Call Tastings and Tours at 484-274-2517 to make your reservation.

1st Tuesday Tours
The Winery in Breinigsville
Tuesday, July 5; August 2 at 2 p.m.
Reservations suggested - $8 per person (Tuesday special rate).
No charge for under 21.

Join Clover Hill Winery the first Tuesday of every month for a special tour. We will show you the Clover Hill way from the grape to the glass! Tours last approximately 1.5 hours and we sample a few wines as we tour. Tour groups are limited in size so please make advanced reservations by calling 610-395-2468. Please dress casually as comfortable shoes are suggested since this is a walking tour. Handicap accessible.

Sangria Sunday
The Winery in Breinigsville
July 10 from noon-4 p.m.

Visit us to enjoy a glass of seasonal sangria on our patio. Sangria will be available for sampling as well as for purchase by the glass. Recipes will also be available.

Harvest Flights with Bites
The Winery in Breinigsville
August 13, 14, 15 and 16 - noon-5 p.m. all days
Tickets required - $12 per flight

Purchase your flight ticket, pick your day you plan on attending, and choose between the winemaker (dry flight option) or the vineyard worker's flight (sweet flight option). Each flight will consist of four samplings of food each paired with a different wine. Check back soon for the menus. Please call 610-395-2468 or visit the winery for your tickets.

Get to know... Janet Gaston of Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery

1.Which winery do you work for and how long have you worked there?

I have been working for Clover Hill Vineyards and Winery since March of 2008.  I work at the winery in Breinigsville and manage the Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market wine shoppe.

2. What is your favorite wine that your winery makes, and why? What do you like to pair it with?

1. My current favorite at Clover Hill is the 2014 Chardonnay. It has a vibrant green apple fruitiness that is delicious, followed by a buttery oak finish. It pairs nicely with an Oriental chicken slaw, a mild curry dish, or veggie based salads with lots of avocado.
 
3.What is the most popular question you get asked by visitors about Lehigh Valley wine or wineries, and how do you answer it?
         
People often have lots of questions about the area growing season. Even locals are unsure and curious about the timeline. I tell them bud break usually occurs late-April or early-May, followed by flowering and at last fruit. By late-August or early-September our wine maker will keep a close eye on the sugar content of the many grape varietal grown. As each reaches a level he sees fit, they are hand picked. It's usually a six week effort at Clover Hill as there are four vineyards in the Lehigh Valley and two in Berks County.        

4. What do you like most about local, Lehigh Valley wine and wineries?

One of my favorite things about wineries in the Lehigh Valley is the special attention given to the Chambourcin grape. The fact that most wineries are producing a Chambourcin wine is fun. You are able to visit and try everyone’s unique style of wine making.

5. What is the one piece of advice you offer to wine lovers traveling along the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail?

Weekends are a fun time to visit wineries. Lots of people are out enjoying the trail. Keep in mind, many wineries have weekday hours as well so you can enjoy a quieter tasting experience if you prefer.

Mother's Day, wine slushies, and vineyard and winery tours this spring at Clover Hill

Mother's Day Flights
May 7, 8, 9 and 10 from noon - 5 p.m. all days
Tickets required: $12 per flight

Let us help you celebrate all the beautiful Mothers at Clover Hill Vineyards and Winery. We will offer a dry wine flight and a sweet wine flight. Please call 610.395.2468 or visit the winery in Breinigsville for your tickets.

Spring Wine and Cheese Pairing Event with the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail
May 21 - 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
May 22 - noon - 5  p.m.

Learn the art of pairing wine and cheeses together. We will offer a free sampling of two wines each paired with a cheese. We will feature Riesling paired with a Ghost Pepper Habanero Jack and our Catawba paired with Cotswold. Cheeses will also be available for purchase. Stop in the winery in Breinigsville for this free tasting.

Wine Slushie Weekend
May 27, 28 and 29 from noon - 5 p.m. all days
To kick off the summer season we will be offering a wine slushie for sampling and available for purchase by the glass.

Public Vineyard and Winery Tours
June 12 at 2 p.m.
July 17 at 2 p.m.
Reservations required; $12 per person. No charge for guests under 21 years of age.

Join Clover Hill Winery for a vineyard and winery tour. We will show you the Clover Hill way from the grape to the glass. Tours last approximately 1½ hours and we sample a few wines as we tour. Tour groups are limited in size, so please make advanced reservations by calling 610-395-2468. Please dress casually as comfortable shoes are suggested since this is a walking tour. Handicap accessible.

Get to know... Tina Rauenzahn of Clover Hill

Our new blog series continues in which we interview staff members at our trail's nine member wineries. This week we are profiling Tina Rauenzahn of Clover Hill.

1.         Which winery do you work for and how long have you worked there?
 
I work for Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery just shy of six years, but I have been drinking Clover Hill wines since they opened their doors as a winery.

2.     What is your favorite wine that your winery makes, and why? What do you like to pair it with?

I always enjoy Clover Hill Pinot Noir and Three when they are available, but since they are typically available only for limited times I would have to say my year-round favorite is Chambourcin. The earthy and spicy flavors from the American Oak aging add a nice contrast to the subtle cherry flavors of the Chambourcin grape. A good aged cheddar, roasted vegetables, or a cheese lasagna are some of my favorite foods to pair with our Chambourcin.

3.          What is the most popular question you get asked by visitors about Lehigh Valley wine or wineries, and how do you answer it?

Customers routinely ask when the next coordinated event will be. I offer details of when the next event is scheduled and give them the wine trail brochure, direct them to the website for information, and encourage them to sign up for the monthly e-newsletter so they do not miss any of the fun activities.

4.          What do you like most about local, Lehigh Valley wine and wineries?

I love that local wine tasting is growing in popularity and folks are finding out for themselves that PA wines are competitive to wines of other parts of the country. The Buy Fresh Buy Local idea has taken off in all facets of our lives.

5.          What is the one piece of advice you offer to wine lovers traveling along the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail?

I point out that Chambourcin is the only grape all 9 of the wine trail wineries have in common, but that they all produce the Chambourcin grape in different styles. I suggest they try it at each winery to find what style of Chambourcin appeals to them. I also suggest they travel the trail over the course of a couple of days (not trying to visit all nine wineries in one day) and I always offer them the LVWT brochure.

Clover Hill introduces Ruby Port and plans Love Flights for Valentine's Day Weekend

We are excited to share with you our newest wine release: Ruby. This little gem is our first ever port wine modeled after the Ruby Port style. There are numerous different styles of port, but Ruby Port is one of the more common styles. A Ruby Port is produced as a young style port with more fruit forward and vibrant flavors. It tends to have a bright ruby color. Ruby Ports are only fermented in stainless steel tanks and are never sent to barrels for aging.

Ruby is Clover Hill’s first port ever released. Ruby is crafted from 100% Chambourcin grapes. We selected the Chambourcin grape to use for this wine mainly for its brilliant color and intense berry flavors. The grapes were fermented down to a point where approximately half of the sugar was consumed by the yeast and then we added back the high proof alcohol to stop the fermentation.

Clover Hill’s Ruby is a very fruit forward dessert wine, showing rich, ripe berry and jammy flavors and ends with a sweet, warm and soothing finish. Ruby is a perfect after dinner wine or best sipped on a cold winter’s night. We suggest serving this wine in a smaller cordial style glass at room temperature or with a slight chill. Only 574 bottles of Ruby were produced. Due to the limited availability of this wine there is a tasting fee of $3 per 1 ounce sample.

Wine of the Month - Catawba
For the month of February, Catawba is discounted 10% at all Clover Hill locations. Receive a 20% discount on Catawba when included in a case purchase.

Savor the sweet, grapey, and candied flavors of this wine.  Don't forget to sniff first to best enjoy the sweet grapey aroma. Now only $8.54.

Love Flights
February 13, 14, 15 & 16; noon - 5 pm all days
Tickets required: $10 per person; $8 per flight for seniors

The Winery in Breinigsville will host our annual Love Flights as a Valentine's Day celebration. Each flight will include for wines each paired with a sampling of food. There will be a dry wine flight and a sweet wine flight.

Beginner Wine Tasting Class
The Winery in Breinigsville
Saturday, February 20; 2pm
Tickets required: $25 per person

Join us in a beginner wine tasting class. This 1 ½ hour long class will teach you the basics of wine tasting, give you tips on wine and food pairing, and help to answer any wine questions you may have. This class is limited in seats. You must be 21+ years old to attend. Call 610-395-2468 or visit the winery to reserve your ticket. Classes typically sell out in advance so make your reservation now.

Clover Hill Beginner Wine Tasting Class coming up later this month

Owner’s Selection Wine of the Month

For the month of January, Pinot Grigio is discounted 10% at all Clover Hill locations. Receive a 20% discount on Pinot Grigio when included in a case purchase.

Made in the Italian style, this wine expresses crisp fruit flavors and fresh acidity. The aroma is bright with citrus fruits; such as pink grapefruit and lemon. Pairs exceptionally well with steamed clams and mussels. Now only $12.14.

Recipe of the Month

Mint and Citrus White Wine Sangria

Ingredients:
~1 bottle Clover Hill Pinot Grigio
~1 lemon, thinly sliced
~1 lime, thinly sliced
~8-10 mint leaves
~2 Tbsp sugar

Prepare simple syrup by mixing 2 Tablespoons of sugar and 2 Tablespoons of water in a small dish and microwaving for 30-second increments until sugar is dissolved. Alternatively, prepare a large batch on the stovetop using a 1:1 sugar-water ratio and reserve for later use.

Once simple syrup is ready, add 1 Tablespoon to each wine glass. Then add mint leaves and stir/lightly muddle. Next add several slices each of lemon and lime.

Top off with wine and let set for a few minutes so the flavors can meld together. Top off with more wine and citrus as needed.

Upcoming Events

Beginner Wine Tasting Class
The Winery in Breinigsville
Saturday, January 23, 2016; 2pm
Tickets Required; $25 per person
Join us in a beginner wine tasting class. This 1 ½ hour long class will teach you the basics of wine tasting, give you tips on wine and food pairing, and help to answer any wine questions you may have! This class is limited in seats. Tickets are required: $25 per person and you must be 21+ years old. Call 610-395-2468 or visit the winery in Breinigsville to reserve your ticket.

Vino in the Valley Passport Program 
with the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail
The Winery in Breinigsville
March 5 and 6, 12 and 13, 19 and 20, 26, 2016*
(*Please note: Our wineries will be closed on Sunday, March 27 for the Easter holiday.)
Tickets required: $35 per passport – on sale now!

The wine enthusiast knows that March means being out and about touring the 9 wineries along the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail for food and wine pairings, and a month of fun.

The Vino in the Valley Passport Program along the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail involves purchasing a passport for $35 and then planning a strategy to visit each of the wineries during the four weekends in March.

As you visit our nine member wineries you will be offered delicious wine and food pairings (tasting sized) to sample. Your passport will be stamped during each visit and entered into a Grand Prize Drawing for additional prizes once it is completed with stamps from eight of our nine wineries. Each passport holder also receives an event gift.

Tickets can be purchased at all participating wineries and online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vino-in-the-valley-2016-tickets-19335524073.

Since our wineries are all family-owned and operated, we each have our own set of house rules. So please check with individual wineries if you have any questions. We look forward to meeting you on the trail! (Sorry, but we do not offer refunds on already-purchased passports.)

Clover Hill’s Top 3 Wine Choices for the Holidays

The holiday season is upon us and Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery is a great place to shop for premium wines and gifts for wine lovers.

Clover Hill’s Top 3 Wine Choices for the Holidays

Oak Vidal Blanc - this hearty, dry oak-aged wine is a delicious alternative to Chardonnay. Try serving it with scallops wrapped in bacon or with shrimp cocktail.

DeChaunac - This semi-sweet red wine is best served chilled and shows both fruity and earthy flavors.

Holiday - Welcome your guests with a warmed glass of Holiday wine. This is a sweet rose spiced with cinnamon, cloves and citrus.

Owner’s Selection:

For the month of December, Cayuga White is discounted 10% at all Clover Hill locations. Receive a 20% discount on Cayuga White when included in a case purchase.

This is a semi-sweet white wine with aromas and flavors of ripe melon, mango, and ruby grapefruit. Cayuga White has a soft, fruity finish. Try serving this wine with the Mango Ginger Stilton, found in our cheese fridge. Now only $9.45.

Beginner Wine Tasting Class
Saturday, January 23 at 2pm
Tickets required - $25 per person

This 1 ½ hour long class will teach you the basics of wine tasting, give you tips on wine and food pairing, and help to answer any wine questions you may have. This class is limited in seats. Must be 21+ years old to attend. Call 610-395-2468 or visit the winery in Breinigsville to reserve your ticket.

Small Business Saturday at Clover Hill, Franklin Hill and Tolino

Remember to buy local this holiday season, including local wine. Here is what three of our Lehigh Valley wineries have planned for Small Business Saturday, November 28.

Clover Hill Winery 
All Clover Hill locations

Show your support for the small businesses you love by ‘shopping small on Saturday.’ Clover Hill will offer specials on select 2 and 3-bottle wine gift sets, and also a 20% discount on case purchases. They will also offer a wine by the glass special of $6 per glass and you keep the 30th anniversary glass. Refills are $5 per glass.

Franklin Hill Vineyards 

They will offer 10% off their newest wine Potion X at all locations. They’ll offer tours of the winery in Bangor at noon and 2 pm to show guest just how successful their small business has become. Learn about their wines and hear the heart warming story of how they started out and got to where they are today.

All locations will be giving complimentary recyclable 6-bottle carrier bags to anyone who purchases a case of wine or more and they’ll have special cocktails for tasting at all of locations as well. On Cyber Monday order up to a case of wine (12 bottles) and enjoy a flat rate shipping of $15.

Tolino Vineyards 
Small Business Saturday Sale and Cookie Pairing

After the mad rush of Black Friday, help the Bangor winery celebrate the importance of small businesses.  Stop by from noon - 6 p.m. on Saturday for 25% off all 2012 wines (by the bottle) and Italian cookies made by Easton Baking Company paired with Tolino wines. They will also offer warm, spicy, mulled wine for sale by the glass, live music by Blue Hearts Revelry and tours at 2 and 4pm. They offer an array of wine-related gifts in the tasting room such as Carlotta clutches, wine openers, wine totes, wine sippy cups, and wine gift boxes.

Wine Tourism Day is this Saturday Nov. 7

Celebrate wine, specifically Lehigh Valley wine, this Saturday, November 7 for Wine Tourism Day.

According to LocalWineEvents.com "Wine Tourism Day is designed to celebrate the many wineries and other businesses offering wine-related events throughout North America and beyond, promote the concept of traveling to wine regions on vacation, and highlight the economic impact of wine tourism. We believe that if the wine tourism industry as a whole is successful, we can all succeed as individuals."

Here is what three of our wineries have planned for the day:

Galen Glen 
Saturday, November 7, 10am to 5pm
Sunday, November 8, Noon to 5pm

Twilight Weekend: First sight or first bite, you will fall in love with our Twilight pairing.  Twilight, a dessert wine, that was hand-harvested on January 1, 2015 as New Year celebrations were concluding, is brimming with honeyed sweetness and a beguiling fragrance.

This weekend only, and while supplies last, we'll pair a 6-ounce glass of Twilight with a Japanese coconut-mango mini-cheesecake for $9. Let this pairing captivate you while you drink in vineyard views from our enclosed, heated pavilion.

Clover Hill
National Wine Tourism Day
The Winery in Breinigsville, Pa.
November 7; 2-4pm

Let us give you a wonderful reason to celebrate National Wine Tourism Day at Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery. Join us for live music by Ed Randazzo and Bret Alexander from 2-4 pm. We will have wine by the glass specials and cheese plates available for purchase.

Tolino Vineyards
November 7  1 - 4 pm Live Music by Erin Kelly
November 7  6 - 9 pm
Paint and Sip – Saturday, November 7th,- 6 – 9 PM
Sip wine and channel your inner Van Gogh! The class will be instructed Anna Kaszupski (www.artbyannak.com). Everyone will paint a winter scene Tickets are $35 per person and include all art supplies, snacks (fruit, cheese, hummus) and a glass of wine. Purchase tickets here: http://www.tolinovineyards.com/specevent.html

Fall Flights with Bites this weekend at Clover Hill Winery

Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery 2015 harvest is in the books and we couldn’t be more pleased with the results! This was our earliest harvest on record, beginning in mid August, thanks to the extremely warm and dry season. By the beginning of September, the heat spike had caused many of our grape varieties to ripen at once and our harvesting became fast and furious. All of our fruit was harvested in pristine condition; however some of the superstars from the 2015 harvest are Vignoles, Merlot and Chambourcin.

Owner’s Selection for October 

Turtle Rock Red is discounted 10% at all Clover Hill locations. Receive a 20% discount on Turtle Rock Red when included in a case purchase. Now only $12.15.

Turtle Rock Red is a flagship wine for Clover Hill Winery. It is produced 100% from Chambourcin, the grape of the Lehigh Valley. The deep purple color, fresh berry flavors, a hint of sweetness and a touch of acidity are characteristics of this wine. This wine pairs nicely with grilled salmon & spicy chili.

Recipe of the Month - Wicked Turtle

~2 oz. Turtle Rock Red
~1 oz. Passion-Fruit Rum
~2oz Lemon/Lime Soda

Pour into a chilled glass for a single serving or for a crowd pleaser pour it in your favorite pitcher. The rich decadent color will be sure to tempt any crowd into trying something wicked.

Find more recipes here.

Fall Flights with Bites
October 31, November 1, 2, 3; noon - 5 pm
Tickets required - $10 per Flight
Senior Special - Tuesday, November 3 - $8 per flight

Join us at the Winery in Breinigsville for a flight of wines paired with bites of goodness. Flights will consist of 4 wines paired with 4 bites of autumn goodness. You can select if you want to experience a Sweet Flight or a Dry Flight. For tickets, please call 610-395-2468 or visit the winery in Breinigsville.

Clover Hill celebrates ice wine release and Summer Flights with Bites event this weekend

SUMMER FLIGHTS WITH BITES AT CLOVER HILL WINERY

Soak up summertime and join Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery for Summer Flights with Bites on July 18, 19, 20 and 21 from noon - 5 pm each day. Call Clover Hill for your ticket, select what day you would like to come, and select the dry or sweet option. Each flight is $10.

If you are a senior (65+ years old), plan your visit for Tuesday, July 21 and flights are only $8. Please call 610-395-2468 for tickets or purchase tickets directly at the Clover Hill Winery in Breinigsville.

Each flight consists of four wines paired with four bites of food. Below are the menus options:

Dry Flight Option:

• Vidal Verde paired with Buche De Chevre
• Chardonnay paired with Herbed Mushroom and Swiss Focaccia with
• Merlot paired English Cheddar with Caramelized Onions
• Turtle Rock Red and Red Dragon

Sweet Flight Option:

• Riesling paired with Peach, Rosemary, Bacon and Goat Cheese Focaccia
• Vignoles paired with Mango Ginger Stilton
• Niagara paired with Pesto Gouda
• Concord paired with Red Dragon

Clover Hill Winery New Wine Release – Generations Vidal Ice Wine

Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery is proud to release the 2015 Generations Ice Vidal on July 18 and 19 at the winery in Breinigsville. This special wine was hand harvested in January 2015 on an icy, 8 degree day. It is hard to believe such a rich, voluptuous wine is the end result from grapes left to hang in frigid temperatures and harsh conditions.

This is a limited release, producing only 231 bottles. The flavors of this wine are a delightful blend of fresh, bright characteristics contrasted by rich, deep intensity. Expect aromas and flavors of honeycomb, orange blossom, raisins, honey and much more.

On July 18 and 19 from noon - 5 pm both days, at the winery in Breinigsville only, Clover Hill will be offering the first peek at the Vidal Ice Wine. There is a $6 fee to sample this wine. 187ml bottles sell for $30. For the release weekend Clover Hill will also be pairing the Ice Wine with a creamy blue cheese and appropriately there will be an ice sculpture.

Summer Slushies, Wine & Food Inspiration, and Summer Flights with Bites at Clover Hill

Reminder - every Monday and Friday - all wines by the glass are $4 each!

Owner’s Selection for June

For the month of June Riesling is discounted 10% at all Clover Hill locations. Receive a 20% discount on Riesling when included in a case purchase.

This semi-sweet Riesling is bursting with aromas and flavors of peach, apricot, and minerals with refreshing acidity. This wine pairs beautifully with spicy Thai food or Mexican food with a kick! Now only $10.35.

Upcoming Events

Wine & Food Inspiration
The Wine Shop at the Boscov’s Fairgrounds Farmer's Market
June 20 - 10 am - 2 pm

Visit the Wine Shop for a special sampling of foods from Krystyna’s Polish Kitchen. We will be offering samples of jerky sticks and a soft Polish cheese both paired with DeChaunac, as well as Chrusciki (a fried dough that's similar to funnel cake) paired with Vignoles.

Summer Slushies at the Vineyard in Robesonia
The Vineyard in Robesonia
June 27 & 28 - noon - 5 pm both days

Join us at the Vineyard in Robesonia for wine slushies. We will be offering free samples of the slushies featuring our Cayuga White and also serving them by the glass.

Summer Flights with Bites
The Winery in Breinigsville
July 18, 19, 20 & 21; noon - 5pm
Tickets required - $10 per flight
Senior Special Tuesday July 21 - $8 per flight

Join us at the Winery in Breinigsville for a flight of wines paired with bites of goodness. Flights will consist of four wines paired with four bites of goodness. The best part is you can pick if you want to experience a Sweet Flight or Dry Flight. Tickets are required and are in limited supply for $10 per flight. Seniors, join us on Tuesday, July 21 for $8 per flight. For tickets, please call 610-395-2468 or visit the winery in Breinigsville.

Food trucks, vineyard tours and sangria, oh my!

Clover Hill 2015 Vineyard and Winery Tour Series
The Winery in Breinigsville

Saturday, July 11 at 1 and 2 pm
Monday, July 13 at 2 pm
Sunday, July 19 at 2 pm
Monday, August 10 at 2 pm
Sunday, August 16 at 2 pm
Saturday, August 22 at 1 and 2 pm

Clover Hill Vineyards and Winery is proud to be celebrating our 30th Anniversary! Join us for an inside look at our vineyard and production facility. Let us show you our winemaking process from the grape to the glass and sample our premium Pennsylvania wines. The tour is approximately 1 ½ hours. Reservations are required and space is limited. Under 21 is free and we are handicap accessible. For reservations please call 610-395-2468. Tour tickets are $12 per person, under 21 is free.

Food Truck Fridays at Galen Glen this summer
                                 
Mark your calendar now and plan to join Galen Glen Winery for one or all of these rare, Friday evening events in the vineyard. Plan to purchase a great dinner to pair with a glass of wine. The event is held rain or shine (we have indoor seating). No reservations are required and all are welcome.

Friday, June 26 , 5-8 pm - Full of Crepe - savory and sweet crepes and sandwiches

Friday, July 24, 5-8 pm, - Bob-B-Q Sliders & Sides

Friday, August 28, 5-8 pm, Vince's Cheesesteaks

Clover Hill Sangria

Ingredients:
~ 1 bottle Clover Hill Concord
~ 8oz. Cherry Juice
~ 5oz. Cranberry Juice
~ 1 Lemon
~ 1 Orange
~ 1 Lime

Cut lemon, lime and orange into thin 1/4" wedges or slices. Add to wine. Add cherry and cranberry juice to desired taste. For additional variation, add orange juice or other fresh fruit.

Vynecrest and Clover Hill plan annual Spring Fling event in early June

The vineyard is starting to come back to life after the harsh winter. The vines are pruned and buds are starting to open up. We planted an additional 800 Chardonnay vines last week and replanted 300 vines that were lost to winter injury.

The Vyneskeller is now open seven days a week from 1 - 5 pm. Monday through Friday it is self service. You can buy everything you need upstairs in the tasting room (wine, cheese, crackers) and take it with you downstairs to the patio or out to the picnic tables. Saturday and Sunday is business as usual with our full staff.





May Specials 
* Wine of the Month - Naked Chardonnay - additional 10% off
* 3 Pack of the Month - 3 Autumn Gold for $25

(*available at winery only; 3 pack cannot be combined with other offers.)

June 6 - Third Annual Spring Fling

Spring signals new beginnings and new releases at the wineries. Join Clover Hill and Vynecrest Wineries in Breinigsville in celebrating with three wine pairings at each winery – with cheese at Clover Hill and with dessert at Vynecrest. Tickets on sale now at both wineries and the day of the event. Tickets are limited so call Clover Hill 610-395-2468 and Vynecrest 610-398-7525. (Ticket includes 10% discount on your purchase on the day of the event.)

Clover Hill:

Vidal Verde paired with Buche de Chevre. Vidal Verde is Clover Hill’s newest release, a dry white wine that is patterned after the Portuguese Vinho Verde wines. In the wine you will taste pineapple and citrus flavors with a hint of effervescence. The wine is complemented by Buche de Chevre, a goat’s milk cheese with a rich yet tangy taste.

2013 Cabernet Sauvignon paired with Collier’s Cheddar. The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon is full of rich, ripe flavor and hearty tannins. This is a perfect partner to serve with an aged cheddar cheese like the Colliers.

DeChaunac paired with Red Dragon. DeChaunac is a semi-sweet red wine that shows both fruity and earthy characteristics. Red Dragon is a smooth, firm cheddar cheese made with mustard seeds. The hint of heat in the cheese is perfectly complemented by the bit of sweetness in the wine.

Vynecrest:

2013 Semi Sweet Riesling with coconut macaroon. Our Riesling is one of our staple grapes in our vineyard as well on our wine list. This wine exhibits a floral nose and clean, tart finish with a hint of sweetness which balances perfectly with the moist texture and rich decadence of the macaroon.

2013 Blueberry with frosted lemon pound cake. Made from 100% blueberries, we just get out of the way and let the fruit speak for itself… think roadside farm stand. While it can be difficult to pair with, we have found that it lends itself perfect when married with lemon and throw in the frosted exterior of the pound cake and you have yourself a homerun.

2013 Chambourcin with chocolate chip brownie.“The Jewel of the Lehigh Valley” our 2013 Chambourcin is no exception focusing on ripe, jammy fruit and soft delicate tannins on the back end. Because of that combination, you get the balance of the cherry flavors with the rich Brownie cake and the subtle French oak finish melding together perfectly with the semi-sweet chocolate chips.

Glass Half Empty by Sam Landis

We get questions all the time about the wine making process and how it works. For the most part, it is a very detail-oriented process. It starts in the vineyard as we look at blocks of vines and prune them and cluster thin so as to get the desired sugar and acids that we want reflected in those wines. Then we look at spreadsheet upon spreadsheet of sell out dates and projected sales and then crunch numbers and do trials and blends. We end up with wine plan after wine plan constantly updating, reallocating and finalizing.

But every once in awhile, we just wing it! That's what happened the other day when we were blending our 2014 First Blush. The blend was so unique (excess Riesling, Traminette and Pinot Grigio) that when we tasted it we said this is really, really good!

So on the spot we "stole" 300 gallons of that wine and said we are going to make a Dry Rose this year. Instead of finishing it off with some fruit-forward semi-sweet Chambourcin like we have in our First Blush, we added some dry, tannic, slightly oaked Chambourcin and presto... Dry Rose was born. While on paper the move does not make sense, I believe its things like this that keep you sane in the wine cellar and continue to push to make the best wines you can regardless of what a spreadsheet spits out. Winging it never looked and tasted so good!

So look forward to our new creation, Dry Rose, in June. An added plus is that my dog, Sadie, got on her first label, much to the happiness of my wife, who has been gently reminding me for seven years that my parents' dog Maizey is on three labels, and Sadie doesn't have any.

How best to experience our Vino in the Valley passport program

Guest blog post by Kari Skrip of Clover Hill Vineyards


Vino in the Valley is a fun way to usher in spring, be inspired by fine food, and celebrate the premium wines of the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail.

Let me offer a few tips to help you get the most from your Vino in the Valley experience:

~ Spread out your visit to the 9 participating wineries over the month of March. Don't try to visit all the wineries in one day or one weekend.

~ Review the full listing of food and wine pairings on our web site to help you plan your visit.

~ Ask questions. The winery owners love to talk about their wines and the foods that compliment them, so use this as an opportunity to learn more about wine and food.

~ Be open minded and try new wines. Our region is home to a wide variety of wine styles and tasting is the best way to find what you like. Make sure you sample Chambourcin, the official wine grape of the Lehigh Valley, during your travels.

~ Share your experience with us as you travel the trail by tweeting us your pictures or posting them to our Facebook page.

~ Get your passports now! This event is nearly sold out and we would hate to see you miss out on the fun. Pick them up in person at one of our member wineries, or order them online here while supplies last.

I look forward to seeing you on the trail for Vino in the Valley.

Upcoming events at Clover Hill

Annual Wine Rack Sale
February 12-22

At all Clover Hill locations

Shop any Clover Hill location and save 30% off all in stock wine racks.


Love Flights
The Winery in Breinigsville
February 13 -  15 from noon - 5 pm
Tickets required - $9 per flight

Bring someone you love to the Winery in Breinigsville and enjoy a Love Flight. Flights will consist of four wines paired with four samples of cheeses. You will have your choice between a mixed flight of dry and off-dry wines, or a sweet flight.

Each flight is $9 per person. Tickets are limited so get yours early. For tickets, please call 610.395.2468 or visit the Winery in Breinigsville.

Wine & Food Inspiration
Saturday, February 14 from 11 am - 4 pm
The Wine Shop at the Allentown Fairgrounds Farmer's Market

Stop in the Wine Shop for a perfect pairing for Valentine’s Day. We will offer samples of Blackberry Sparkler paired with chocolate truffle torte from the Amish Village Bake Shop.

Buck A Bottle Shipping Special
February 26- March 1
shop.cloverhillwinery.com

Stock up on Clover Hill wines and have them shipped right to your door. Purchase six or more bottles online and pay only $1 per bottle shipping (minimum order is six bottles to receive the discount). Purchase 12 or more bottles and also receive a 10% case discount along with $1 per bottle shipping charge.

Vino in the Valley Passport Program (formerly called March Passport Program)

A Lehigh Valley Wine Trail event
The Winery in Breinigsville
March 7 & 8, 14 & 15, 21 & 22, 28 & 29
*Passport required - $35 per person

Passports are selling quickly, so don’t wait to get yours online here. View the list of food and wine pairings from all nine wine trail wineries here.

This year’s passport holder gift is a wine backpack. It is recommended that you plan to visit no more than three wineries a day so you can get the most enjoyment out of your experience without being rushed. Groups of 12 or more are by appointment only. To participate in our wine and food pairings you either need a passport, or you can purchase a ticket for the day to sample Clover Hill’s pairings for $5 per person.

Clover Hill is excited to have Chef Nathan return with a fantastic menu:

March 7, 8, 14, 15
Aleppo pepper taco with shaved cabbage and vinaigrette paired with Vidal Blanc
Spiced apple crepe with whipped topping paired with Vignoles

March 21, 22, 28, 29
Sweet Thai turkey marinated skewer paired with Riesling

Save on Clover Hill's Holiday wine in January

January 1, 2015, marks the start of another new year. January 1 is special to me in that it is the 17th birthday of my oldest grandson, John Skrip IV (aka J.B.) son of John Skrip III, my “BEST” son and my only son, who is the winemaker at Clover Hill Vineyards and Winery.

January 1 is also the third birthday of my Rottweiler dog, DeCha. OK ~ she is half mine and half my wife’s! DeCha was named after one of the grape varieties that we successfully grow and the popular wine we make bearing its name - DeChaunac. Since our kids left the nest, DeCha fills the void nicely. She likes to lick a little wine off my wife, Pat’s, finger, but moments later has to sneeze. We only give her this treat on special occasions like New Year’s Eve. She likes to go where I go whether it be riding shotgun in my golf buggy or accompanying me in my car. She is man’s best friend, and if you pet her you will have a friend for life!

New Year’s Eve is a time for our traditional New Year's Eve roof raising, town painting celebration… senior style. My wife and I, along with my 90-year young mother, Olga, for the past six years have been enjoying a stay-at-home lobster dinner complete with homemade French fries, cranberry sauce, a Spanish hand-dressed salad made by me, and  bubbles… lots of bubbles (that's champagne for all you BEER drinkers!).

But wait it gets better. The final act is the result of too many bubbles. There is a tendency to doze off before the big ball in Times Square touches down at midnight. After giving Pat a big New Year's kiss, toasting with a glass of Clover Hill Sparkling Pinot Noir, and making our new year’s resolution about losing weight for 2015, we retire for the balance of the evening.

Daughters, Kari and Lori, and son, John III, may call us to wish us a Happy New Year if they remember… the youngin's like to party more than us seniors. That is New Year's...Skrip Family/ Clover Hill style - life in the fast lane!

A NEW 2015 resolution for me will be that I spend less time with the grapes and wine business and more time at our second home, appropriately named by Kari as Grape Escape, at Cape Cod. Don’t worry - I’ll be watching Clover Hill but I’ll be watching more of Cape Cod Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Clover Hill will be in good hands with Pat, John III and Kari. As always, I will be available to cut the grass, take the garbage out, and all the other important chores they will ask me to do. Spending more time with my grandkids is also in the equation.

Bottom line is, I wish the BEST to you and yours in 2015. And remember to drink Clover Hill wine in moderation as your key to longevity! - John Skrip Jr.

Owner’s Selection for January 

The holidays may be over, but it is never too late to sip a warmed glass of Holiday wine on a cold night. This is a sweet rose that is jazzed up with cinnamon, cloves and citrus. Now only $9.45.

Try this: mix equal parts of Holiday and brown sugar for a sweet and spicy ham glaze.

Beginner Wine Tasting Class
Saturday, January 10 and 25 at 2 p.m. (almost sold out!)
Tickets required - $25 per person

Join us in a beginner wine tasting class. This 1.5 hour long class will teach you the basics of wine tasting, give you tips on wine and food pairing and help to answer any wine questions you may have. This class is limited in seats and tickets are required: $25 per person and you must be 21+ years old. Call 610-395-2468 or visit the winery in Breinigsville to reserve your ticket.

Winter Warmers 
The Winery in Breinigsville
January 17 and 18

Take a wintertime country drive to Lehigh County and sip something special. At Clover Hill Winery in Breinigsville we will be offering a trio of warmed wines for you to sample. Recipes will be available.

Annual Clover Hill Coat Drive happening this week; Ugly Sweater Party coming up next Friday

The holidays are upon us and we can’t think of a better time to pull the cork on a bottle of Clover Hill wine, pour a few glasses and enjoy the spirit of the season with good company.

One of my favorite holiday traditions is getting together with my mom and my sisters to bake cookies. We bake, we laugh, we occasionally fight, and the whole time we sip Sparkling Pinot Noir. The hurried pace of the holidays quickly slows down as we enjoy the simple moments of time together as a family. Of course the glass of bubbles helps to make everything more enjoyable!

I would like to wish you a joyous holiday season and many happy, simple moments enjoyed with a glass of wine.

- Kari Skrip

P.S. Schantz Road is officially opened! No more detours trying to visit the winery in Breinigsville. Cheers to that!

Owner’s Selection for December

Save 10% on your purchase of Niagara. Take a deep whiff of this wine and you will experience an unmistakably fresh, grapey aroma. This sweet white wine tastes like you are eating the grapes right off the vine. Serve well chilled and enjoy with good company.

Now only $8.55. Receive an additional 10% discount when included in a case purchase.

Coat Drive at all Clover Hill locations
December 8-14

Clover Hill Vineyards and Winery is hosting our annual coat drive. Give us your coat and we will give you a 10% discount on your purchase. We are collecting all size coats to be donated to The Caring Place in Allentown and Berks Women in Crisis in Reading. Coats can be donated at any Clover Hill location and as a thank you, we will give you a 10% discount on your purchase.

Ugly Sweater Party
December 19
The Winery In Breinigsville

Join us in wearing your favorite ugly Christmas sweater to the Winery in Breinigsville and you will be entered to win a $30 Clover Hill gift card. To help us celebrate, all wines by the glass will be only $4 (even if you are not wearing your ugly sweater).

Sparkling Wine Tasting at all Clover Hill locations
December 26-31

Stop in any Clover Hill location to sample any in stock sparkling wines. Why not pop the cork on a bottle of local bubbly for New Years Eve this year?

Beginner Wine Tasting Class
Saturday, January 10 and 25 at 2 pm
Tickets are required - $25 per person

Join us in a beginner wine tasting class. This 1.5 hour-long class will teach you the basics of wine tasting, give you tips on wine and food pairing and help to answer any wine questions you may have. This class is limited in seats and tickets are required. Tickets are $25 per person and attendees must be 21 years or age or older. Call 610-395-2468 or visit the winery in Breinigsville to reserve your ticket. Tickets make a great holiday gift idea.