Welcome back from what I hope was a great summer! Thank you for joining us for one of ACG Atlanta’s signature events, the Taste of ACG Atlanta. In its 14th year, we have a great evening planned with curated wines and expanded to include bourbon, mocktails, and additional high-end food from Atlanta’s best restaurant groups. It is a perfect way to kick off the ACG programming year.
ACG Atlanta delivers an exciting programming mix, including our distinguished content and networking events, our annual M&A South conference in February, and the Georgia Fast 40 Awards celebration. This year we have added a traditional DealSource event in September and our Spring Summit next May. In addition to those general membership events, we feature targeted events for C-Suite executives, Emerging Leaders, and others. Ask our staff and volunteer leaders about membership, events, and all things ACG.
Membership in ACG Atlanta provides numerous networking opportunities to meet people of similar professional interests within the Atlanta dealmaking community. In addition to exciting programming, membership in ACG offers access to regional and national conferences and a worldwide network of almost 15,000 members. If you are not a member of ACG and would like more information about joining, please contact our Executive Director, Meg Williams at acgatlanta@acg.org or 404-846-4455.
Have a wonderful evening. Cheers!
Colby Schwartz Chairman – ACG Atlanta Board of Directors
REGISTRATION
WINE GLASS
DEALMAKER’S LOUNGE
Italy – Tuscany
France – Rhone Valley
California Zinfandel
Sauvignon Blanc Comparison
Oregon
Champagne
Pinot Noir Comparison
Bold Reds Southern Hemisphere
Sonoma – Sonoma Coast
Sonoma – Russian River Valley
Paso Robles
Napa Valley Reds
Spain
Rose
France – White Burgundy
Italy – Barolo & Barbaresco
France – Bordeaux
Mocktails
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BY
ITALY – TUSCANY
PIEVE SANTA RESTITUTA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO
From the much esteemed Gaja family estate in Montalcino comes this beautifully crafted Brunello di Montalcino. The label represents the Pieve (church) while staying true to the family Gaja’s traditional black and white colors. Brunello is one of Italy’s most prestigious wines, so when Gaja, who has made their reputation on high-end Barolo and Barbaresco, bought the property in 1994, a new pinnacle of quality was sure to follow. Elegantly structured with closed-grained tannins, this wine boasts a full-bodied, primary fruit-driven palate with spiced plum, cranberry, and espresso notes. This wine is superb and can be enjoyed over a wide range of time.
CA’MARCANDA 22 MAGARI BOLGHERI SUPER TUSCAN
This wine is a Super Tuscan from coastal Bolgheri in Tuscany, Italy. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, Magari is voluptuous and full-bodied. Its cocoa, tobacco leaf, balsamic strawberry, and smoke notes suggest pairing with roasted tenderloin or lamb. Cabernet provides the muscle here with Merlot softening the tannins, and the Cab Franc is supported by a vegetal, green pepper base. This outstanding wine is quite impressive from the famed Barbaresco house of Gaja.
CULT WINE: GIUSEPPE MASCARELLO BAROLO MONPRIVATO 2017
Giuseppe Mascarello Barolo Monprivato 2017 is made exclusively from 100% Nebbiolo, the grape variety that defines Barolo wines. Nebbiolo is known for its complex flavor profile, high acidity, and firm tannins, making it ideal for long aging. The wine is crafted from grapes grown in the Monprivato vineyard, a single-vineyard site in Castiglione Falletto, renowned for its unique terroir. The Monprivato vineyard is one of the most esteemed singlevineyard sites in the Barolo region, and wines from this vineyard are highly regarded by critics and collectors alike. The Mascarello family, with their deep commitment to traditional winemaking techniques and meticulous attention to detail, consistently produces exceptional Barolos that are renowned for their elegance, complexity, and aging potential.
DOMAINE PAILLIERES GIGONDAS
A standout gem in the Southern Rhône. Nestled in an elevated, secluded bowl surrounded by wild garrigue, this estate boasts 25 hectares of 65-70-yearold vines on steep, northwest-facing terraces. The meticulously crafted wine, aged 20 months in large French oak foudres and bottled unfined and unfiltered, offers a rich, velvety depth and remarkable aging potential. Made from Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, and Clairette, it’s a balanced, refined treasure with both vegetarian and vegan credentials.
DOMAINE DE LA JANASSE OLD VINE CHATEAUNEUF-DUPAPE
Domaine de la Janasse is a celebrated name in Châteauneuf-du-Pape and is renowned for blending tradition with innovation. From sandy soils in the North to gravelly red clay in the South, their terroirs produce exceptional wines. This Old Vine Chateauneuf du Pape is crafted from a masterful blend of 65% old Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, and 5% Cinsault. Deep notes of blackberry and blackcurrant, complemented by delicate violet aromas, all wrapped in a long, silky finish. Perfectly paired with grilled or simmered meats, such as leg of lamb with herbs or stewed beef, this wine is designed to age gracefully for up to 10 years.
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SAUVIGNON BLANC COMPARISON
TURLEY DUSI VINEYARD ZINFANDEL
Nestled in the cool Templeton Gap sub-AVA of Paso Robles, this plush Zinfandel showcases deep flavors of black plum, crème de cassis, and blackberry. Its velvety texture and mouthwatering richness are complemented by a hint of piquant white spice on the long finish. Perfectly aged for 15 months in a mix of French and American oak barrels, this wine is ready to enjoy now.
RIDGE VINEYARDS PAGANI RANCH ZINFANDEL
Ridge Vineyards, an American wine icon, has a history that began in 1885 with the purchase of under 200 acres near Monte Bello Ridge in California. Ridge has been consistently recognized by top critics and peers for its dependable quality and steadfast approach to winemaking for more than six decades. 73% Zinfandel, 17% Carignan, 7% Petit Sirah, and 3% Alicante Bouschet from Alexander Valley in Sonoma County. The wines of Ridge Vineyards are typically medium-bodied with firm textures, potent aromatics, and older world identities; their zinfandel bottlings taste like they could originate from France’s Rhone Valley. Alcohol levels are below 15% as well.
CHÂTEAU DE NOZAY SANCERRE BLANC
From the historic 17th-century Château du Nozay in Sancerre, this family estate blends tradition with innovation. Their organically and biodynamically farmed vineyards, planted in Kimmeridgian marl soils, produce exceptional Sancerre with a pure expression of the terroir. The 2022 vintage, nurtured through a warm, dry season with crucial rainfall, showcases a pristine, clean Sauvignon Blanc.
CHATEAU LYNCH BAGES BORDEAUX BLANC
This exquisite blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle shines with vibrant notes of fresh grapefruit, exotic fruits, and cassis buds harmoniously intertwined with dried apricots, candied fruit, and delicate white flowers. The careful selection of parcels and innovative vineyard practices enhance its fruity and floral character while aging in finely used barrels adds refined woody and vanilla nuances. Lively and expressive in its youth, Blanc de Lynch-Bages evolves to reveal a captivating complexity with a fresh, exhilarating finish that epitomizes the greatness of Bordeaux’s white wines.
BERGSTROM SILICE PINOT NOIR
OREGON
Ancient sands of a 60-million-year-old dune shape the exceptional wines of Bergstrom. Nestled in the rolling hills of the Chehalem Mountains, this 20-acre estate basks in all-day sun and is kissed by strong winds, crafting Pinot Noirs with bold notes of gingerbread, cola, and sassafras, and a delightful floral lift. This delicate red wine maintains an expressive bouquet of sandalwood and herbs, with tart red huckleberries and a hint of baking spice, finishing with a mineral salinity and rich dark cherry notes.
COMPOSITION CHARDONNAY
The 2021 Composition Chardonnay from this single-vineyard estate on a sundrenched, south-facing ridge in the southern Eola-Amity Hills AVA. Crafted from biodynamically dry-farmed vines thriving in rich volcanic soils, this Chardonnay benefits from a warm spring and a perfect September harvest. The wine’s delicate fruit, cold-pressed and aged in 40% new Burgundian oak, offers a harmonious blend of natural fermentation and meticulous craftsmanship. This wine’s refined elegance with crisp citrus flavors and subtle oak nuances reveals the true character of an exceptional vintage. SPONSORED
CHAMPAGNE FRANCK BONVILLE UNISSON GRAND CRU
BLANC DE BLANC BRUT NV
Franck Bonville Unisson Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut NV is a distinguished Champagne crafted exclusively from Chardonnay grapes sourced from the prestigious Grand Cru vineyards in Avize. This non-vintage blend exemplifies finesse with its crisp, vibrant profile and elegant texture. Expect a bouquet of fresh citrus, green apple, and delicate floral notes, complemented by a fine, persistent mousse and a minerally finish. Ideal for any celebration, this Champagne balances rich complexity with refreshing brightness, making it a timeless choice for connoisseurs.
CHAMPAGNE LAURENT PERRIER NV GRAND SIECLE NO. 26
Laurent-Perrier Grand Siècle No. 26 is an exceptional non-vintage Champagne epitomizing elegance and sophistication. Blended from the finest Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, this cuvée showcases a harmonious balance of rich, complex flavors and vibrant freshness. Expect a refined profile with notes of ripe fruit, toasted brioche, and delicate honey alongside a creamy texture and a long, graceful finish. Grand Siècle No. 26 is celebrated for its meticulous craftsmanship and enduring quality, making it a standout choice for discerning palates and special occasions.
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PINOT NOIR COMPARISON
DOMAINE DUJAC CHAMBOLLE MUSIGNY
Domaine Dujac Chambolle-Musigny is a distinguished Burgundy red wine that captures the essence of its famed appellation. Crafted from Pinot Noir grapes, this wine exhibits a captivating bouquet of red berries, roses, and subtle earthy notes. The palate reveals a delicate balance of vibrant fruit, silky tannins, and a refined minerality, with a finish that lingers gracefully. Known for its elegance and finesse, Domaine Dujac Chambolle-Musigny embodies the sophisticated charm and nuanced complexity that define this revered Burgundy village.
BETHEL HEIGHTS JUSTICE VINEYARD PINOT NOIR
Bethel Heights Pinot Noir is a refined and expressive wine from Oregon’s Willamette Valley, known for its elegant balance and depth. This Pinot Noir showcases vibrant red fruit flavors like cherry and raspberry, complemented by subtle earthy undertones and hints of spice. The wine’s smooth texture is supported by fine tannins and a well-integrated acidity, leading to a long, satisfying finish. Bethel Heights Pinot Noir captures the essence of its terroir with its complexity and nuanced character, making it a standout choice for casual enjoyment and special occasions..
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TORBRECK “STRUIE” BAROSSA VALLEY SHIRAZ
The Struie comes from Barossa’s Eden Valley, a slightly cooler region responsible for top bottlings such as the Hill of Grace from Henshke, among others. Dark fruits with leather and balanced power are the hallmarks of this wine. It’s always one of the most distinctive bottlings from Torbreck.
DON MELCHOR CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 is a distinguished wine from Chile’s renowned Puente Alto region, embodying power and elegance. This vintage presents a rich tapestry of dark fruit flavors, including blackcurrant and blackberry, complemented by notes of tobacco, cedar, and a hint of graphite. Its well-structured palate features robust tannins and balanced acidity, leading to a long, refined finish. Aged in French oak barrels, Don Melchor 2020 exhibits a harmonious integration of oak and fruit, offering a complex and sophisticated experience that reflects the high-quality craftsmanship of this iconic Cabernet Sauvignon.
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BY
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SONOMA – SONOMA COAST
KISTLER VINEYARDS PINOT NOIR
Kistler Pinot Noir is a premium wine celebrated for its depth and elegance. Sourced from select vineyards in Sonoma County, this Pinot Noir offers a complex bouquet of red berries, cherries, and hints of earth and spice. Its palate is marked by vibrant acidity and velvety tannins, with layers of flavor that evolve beautifully over time. The wine’s careful aging in French oak imparts subtle notes of vanilla and toast, complementing its rich fruit character. Kistler Pinot Noir is a sophisticated and well-balanced expression of the varietal, ideal for immediate enjoyment and aging.
RIVERS-MARIE PINOT NOIR
Rivers-Marie Pinot Noir is a highly regarded wine from California’s Sonoma Coast, known for its exceptional balance and nuance. This Pinot Noir showcases a vibrant bouquet of red fruits like raspberry and cherry, with forest floor undertones and subtle spice. On the palate, it offers a smooth, refined texture with bright acidity and fine tannins that support a long, elegant finish. The wine’s careful aging in French oak adds layers of complexity, including hints of vanilla and baking spices. Rivers-Marie Pinot Noir is celebrated for its purity, depth, and meticulous craftsmanship that highlights the unique character of its terroir.
ARISTA PINOT NOIR
Arista Pinot Noir is a distinguished wine from California’s Sonoma County, known for its nuanced character and refined elegance. This Pinot Noir features a vibrant array of red fruit flavors, including raspberry, cherry, and cranberry, complemented by delicate hints of spice and earth. Its smooth, silky texture is balanced by bright acidity and fine tannins, leading to a well-structured and lingering finish. Aged in French oak, Arista Pinot Noir gains additional complexity from subtle notes of vanilla and toast. This wine is celebrated for its harmonious blend of fruit and complexity, making it a standout choice for immediate enjoyment and aging.
MERRY EDWARDS RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY PINOT NOIR
This Pinot Noir showcases a vibrant bouquet of ripe red berries, such as cherry and raspberry, interwoven with nuanced earth notes, spice, and subtle oak. Its well-structured palate features smooth tannins and bright acidity, providing a balanced and refined mouthfeel. The careful aging in French oak barrels imparts additional complexity with hints of vanilla and toast. Merry Edwards Russian River Valley Pinot Noir is celebrated for its depth, complexity, and masterful expression of its terroir, making it a standout choice for enthusiasts of high-quality Pinot Noir.
PASO ROBLES
L’AVENTURE ESTATE RED BLEND 2020
This vintage combines Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot, offering a robust bouquet of dark fruits, including blackberry and plum, alongside hints of spice, cocoa, and a touch of earthy minerality. The wine’s full-bodied palate features well-integrated tannins and balanced acidity, leading to a long, satisfying finish. Aged in French oak, L’Aventure Estate 2020 reveals additional layers of vanilla and toasted oak, showcasing the seamless blend of power and elegance that defines this exceptional wine.
EPOCH ESTATE RED BLEND
Epoch Estate Red is a prestigious wine from Paso Robles, crafted from Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre. This wine offers a rich tapestry of flavors, featuring ripe dark fruits like blackberry and plum, complemented by spicy notes of black pepper and hints of earthy, herbal nuances. Its full-bodied palate is marked by velvety tannins and balanced acidity, creating a smooth and harmonious texture. Aged in French oak barrels, Epoch Estate Red develops additional layers of complexity with subtle notes of vanilla and toasted oak. This wine is celebrated for its depth, elegance, and the seamless integration of its diverse components.
REVANA TERROIR SERIES CABERNET SAUVIGNON
This Cabernet Sauvignon showcases a rich profile of dark fruits, such as blackberry and blackcurrant, with elegant undertones of graphite, cocoa, and subtle spice. The wine’s full-bodied palate is supported by well-structured tannins and vibrant acidity, leading to a long, nuanced finish. Aged in French oak barrels, it reveals additional layers of complexity, including notes of vanilla and toasted oak.
LARKMEAD WHITE LABEL CABERNET SAUVIGNON
This Cabernet Sauvignon presents a complex bouquet of dark fruits like blackberry and cassis, complemented by nuanced graphite notes, tobacco, and cocoa. The palate features a full-bodied structure with firm, wellintegrated tannins, and vibrant acidity, leading to a long, elegant finish. Aged in French oak barrels, the wine develops additional layers of complexity, including hints of vanilla and cedar.
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2015 LA RIOJA ALTA GRAN RESERVA RIOJA 904
This is an excellent opportunity to experience a ten-year-old Rioja Gran Reserva. A blend of 90% Tempranillo and 10% Graciano from three areas just north of Haro, the central city of Rioja. This spends four years in seasoned American oak barrels, which are actually coopered at La Rioja Alta. Always a darling with the critics, this wine received 93, 95, & 97 points reviews!.
FAMILIA TORRES - MAS DE PLANA CABERNET SAUVIGNON
This wine, crafted predominantly from the Cabernet Sauvignon grape, showcases a deep, intense ruby color. It offers rich aromas of dark fruits, such as blackberries and plums, complemented by notes of cocoa, coffee, and subtle spices. The palate presents a full-bodied structure with firm tannins and balanced acidity, leading to a long, persistent finish.
MATTHIASSON ROSÉ
Steve Matthiasson co-wrote the manual on California’s sustainable agriculture practices, and this rose shows what their vineyard is capable of. It is a blend of grenache (40%), barbera (18%), counoise (16%), syrah (14%), and mourvèdre (12%) - all from three organically farmed vineyards spanning Dunnigan Hills and Napa Valley. The fruit is grown specifically for rosé, and it’s harvested early for freshness and acidity. Grapes are pressed whole-cluster, settled in a cold tank for 24 hours, then fermented and aged “sur lees” in stainless steel barrels. Pair this with anything fresh and green, or enjoy a glass on the porch.
CHATEAU D’ESCLANS ROCK ANGEL PROVENCE ROSÉ
Château d’Esclans Rock Angel Provence Rosé is a refined and elegant rosé from the renowned Provence region in France. This wine blends Grenache, Rolle (also known as Vermentino), and Cinsault varietals, creating a beautifully balanced and aromatic profile. The Rock Angel exhibits a pale, delicate pink color with inviting aromas of red berries, citrus, and a hint of floral notes. It is crisp and fresh on the palate, with flavors of ripe strawberries, peaches, and a subtle minerality.
FRANCOIS CROCHET SANCERRE ROSÉ
François Crochet Sancerre Rosé is a well-crafted rosé from the Sancerre region in the Loire Valley of France. This wine is predominantly made from Pinot Noir, imparting its freshness and elegance. The Sancerre Rosé displays a light, salmon-pink color and offers enticing aromas of red berries, such as strawberries and raspberries, along with hints of citrus and floral notes. The palate is crisp and vibrant, with bright acidity and a clean, mineral-driven finish. This rosé is versatile and pairs beautifully with various dishes, including seafood, salads, and light appetizers.
SPONSORED BY
FRANCE - WHITE BURGUNDY
LEFLAIVE MACON-VERZE 2020
From one of the top wineries in Burgundy and one of the most renowned white wine producers in general, comes the 2020 Domaine Leflaive MaconVerze. The Leflaive family has been growing Burgundy wines since 1717 but they really found their footing on the world stage a little over a century ago and have been masters of their craft ever since. The Macon-Verze is from a southern region of Burgundy that is even further south than Cote de Beaune. This Chardonnay has minerality, wet stone, and some floral aromas on the nose with some additional fruitiness to be discovered on the palate.
PATRICK PIUZE CHABLIS PLATEAU DE LA CORNASSE 2021
Patrick Piuze did a 4-year tenure with legendary winemaker Olivier Leflaive, and later was cellarmaster for the excellent Chablis producer Jean-Marc Brocard. With his extensive knowledge and great respect for the terroir, Piuze produces beautiful Chablis solely from old vines and hand picks the grapes to ensure the absolute highest quality, as opposed to the common use of machinery in the region. This Chablis has notes of apple, lemon, and tropical fruit with beautifully balanced acidity.
SPONSORED BY LOOK FOR THIS BALLOON
ITALY - BAROLO & BARBARESCO
PAOLO SCAVINO CAROBRIC BAROLO 2013
Paolo Scavino was founded over 100 years ago and is now run by a fourthgeneration father and his daughters. It is regularly classified as one of the best estates in the Barolo region. The Carobric Barolo was created as a combination of three historical and complex terroir. Medium to full-bodied, it has tasting notes of strawberry, spice and rose, with delicate tannins on the finish. 2013 is drinking beautifully right now but could age another decade.
CORTESE BARBARESCO 2019
The Cortese winery is located in the acclaimed area known as Rabaja. The optimal microclimate and care of the Cortese family shows in this lovely Nebbiolo. With aromas of bright berries, wild herbs, and light florals, tasting notes of raspberry, rose and minerals balance structured tannins. 2019 is warm, elegant, and polished with a natural richness.
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FRANCE - BORDEAUX
CH. DURFORT-VIVENS ‘LE RELAIS DE DURFORT-VIVENS’ 2015
This structured Bordeaux blend is from the biodynamic Durfort-Vivens estate in the Margaux appellation. This is a ready to drink Bordeaux with ripe, juicy fruit such as blackberry, red currant, and plum. With the tannins still fairly firm, there is some potential for additional aging.
ECHO DE LYNCH BAGES 2016
Hailing from Pauillac in Bordeaux, this full-bodied red wine is 73% Cabernet Sauvignon and 27% Merlot, which creates a beautiful deep garnet-purple color. This flavorful blend has rich, polished tannins and classic dark fruits across the board. Think red and black currants on the palette along with some aromas of cedar, graphite, and sandalwood, while this is on the powerful side overall, the freshness balances the wine perfectly.
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MOCKTAILS
Come indulge in a refreshing experience at our Mocktail Table, where the fun of mixology meets the charm of non-alcoholic delights. This station is designed for everyone to enjoy their perfect drink.
LOOK FOR THIS BALLOON
BOURBON TASTING
Kentucky Colonel Rod Arnold, “The Bourbon Whisperer,” will share a plethora of bottles from his vast collection of premium whiskies, limited edition expressions, and exclusive private barrel selections directly from the rickhouses of Kentucky. Over 15+ selections will be displayed for sampling and a fun educational discussion of stories behind your favorite brands.