Cheers to 2015

As the sparkly ball gets closer and closer to ringing in the New Year of 2016. I would like to take a pause to reminisce on the past 365 days. I've met adoring new wine fanatics, became a Independent Wine Consultant for the best direct sales business in the United States (Wine Shop at Home), continued my adoring tenure at Maryland's greatest gem (Old Westminster Winery), and found the love of life (a 2000 vintage Merlot...... decanting and then poured in my wine glass by "Him"). 

The onset of beginning the new year is met with endless possibilities. As I say to my little ones, "You Can Do..... Whatever You Put Your Mind Too"!  I intend to further my wine education, beyond self-study, and achieve certifications that are truly acknowledged in the wine industry. Wine lovers, look forward to getting to know the force behind "I Heart Fermented Grapes". A hobby, evolved into a complete obsession, passion for the love of wine. 

Cheers! 

KTJ

Oenophilia

Hello, bonjour, ciao, hola, I am Kimberly T. Johnson. Wine is my passion and I intend to explore the fermented grape in it’s rawest form. Beginning with my favorite Maryland vineyard (Old Westminster Winery) where I am grateful to have experienced first hand the complete process of making great wines. From fall harvest (carefully hand sorting Pinot Nior, using the push down and pour over method of soaking Merlot grape juice in its tannin skins) to Spring time bottling the latest vintage of 2014 Chardonnay. At first expressing my interest in wine, to family and friends, was a BOLD venture that was not so easily excepted. But I have always been one to skip to the beat of my own drum. Lucky for me I have a personal "loud and proud" cheerleader (my mom, Karen Johnson Waters). She raised me to know that the sky is the limit and to reach high for my goals. Now that I am a mom and aunt, I tell my girls the same. Proving to them the power of persistence. I am an entrepreneur, Independent Wine Consultant and writer. My wine blog (iheartfermentedgrapes.blogspot.com) is where I share my adventures in the world of wine. As I visualize my thirst for learning more, I see myself traveling to Champagne, France to sip on the most adored Champagne in all of the world. As well as Italy, where the Sangiovese grape thrives in the Tuscan sun. Also the country of Spain, where I will sip and savor wines made from the Tempranillo grape. One of my many goals is to achieve the prestigious status of Master Sommelier (the most respected and dedicated level of wine knowledge). My passion will forever be to excite and diversify the world of wine one sip at a time. Cheers!!

Sloop Betty

We took a surprise visit to Blackwater Distilling in Kent County Maryland. Had a great time touring the distillery, learning so much about the history of the company and their dedication to the craft of distilling pure and clear vodka as well as delicious rum. The owners are very passionate about the product they produce. Since vodka is a neutral spirit, just add any natural ingredient to it for a stand out drink. Interesting Fact: The distillery makes it's own honey to create the honey vodka. They partner with Baltimore's famous Domino Sugar, producing an all natural ingredient. Definitely a plus that adds the unique taste to their vodka. Find time this holiday season to visit the distillery. You will not be disappointed. My favorite from the tasting was the Sloop Betty Honey Vodka. Check out the website for more details. (http://www.sloopbetty.com/vodka.html).