Affirmations come in many shapes and sizes. For the vintner, medals from well-known oenophiles, like those at the San Francisco Chronicle, make the difference for their wines by reaching a larger audience. Christian Garvin, Oreana’s owner/winemaker, is delighted to have received a Gold Medal from the Chronicle’s judging panel for his 2008 release of Tilly, which is a blend of 60% Sangiovese and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, often called “Super Tuscan” by Italian winemakers in the traditional Italian style. Tilly was created by Garvin to honor his Italian grandmother Matilda ‘Tilly’ Maglio, who passed away from Alzheimer’s in 2007. Garvin designated 10% of all sales from this wine to go to the California Central Coast Alzheimer's Association. Silver Medals were awarded to Oreana’s 2008 Pinot Noir, 2009 Chardonnay, 2008 Bacon Reserve Syrah and the 2009 Syrah. All of the award-winning wines retail for $18, except the Bacon Reserve priced at $24.99. Gabe Saglie, distinguished wine writer for the Santa Barbara News Press, in his review of Tilly stated, “This wine delivers on two fronts: It's that easy-drinking red wine and it's a wine with a great story… an engaging, approachable red that is generous on fruit. Bright and almost bouncy upfront with a peppery backbone and a rich finish. And nice aromatics: flowers, berries and currants. Tilly is an ideal partner to any grilled meat dish on your holiday table.” Oreana wines are sold in 17 states and in China. You can find the label locally at the winery, Trader Joe’s, Albertson’s, Whole Foods and many more.
