1) Michael Jordan is a local boy from Hawaii who became a Master Sommelier and owns Word Vineyards, crafting small-batch wines from California.
2) The wines are made from select vineyard sites and in a traditional style for a new generation, with tiny production runs of high quality wines.
3) Word Vineyards Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon have both won awards, with the Pinot Noir taking gold at the Shanghai Wine Challenge judged exclusively by sommeliers.
3. Michael J’s History Michael Jordan – Local boy from Kalani High School Attended KCC with Alan Wong! Father was Matty “Matteo” Jordan – Owner and founder of Matteo’s Italian Restaurants Michael grew up in the family restaurants and was chef of Matteo’s Waikiki in 1980s Michael J has both MS and CWE Wine Diplomas (only 15 people in the world have both) He worked 10 years as Global Wine Director for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts International 38 years in restaurant business - buying and selling wine - has taught Michael to know what people like. MJ has been Sommelier of the Year several times!
4. What is Word Wine? Traditional style wine for a new generation. Finest grapes sourced from best vineyards I could find in California! Wines were made at Williams & Selyem and Ambullneo Wineries Hand crafted artisan wine made with loving care from grapes grown by people that care for them. Tiny production, high quality and Michael’s reputation has caused high demand and the wines sell out quickly on mainland. Only available in finest restaurants and exclusive wine shops.
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6. 2007 WORD Pinot Noir Santa Maria Valley Fruit from Solomon Hills Vineyard, La Rinconada and Rancho Onteveros Vineyard 100% Whole Cluster fermentation 100% Native Yeast & Slow, cold fermentation Translucent ruby, bright and clear. Very pretty aromatics with floral notes and red berries and cherries, forest floor moss and cedar with subtle spices Low 13.5% ABV! Light & Elegant style with bright acidity that will allow aging for ten years, but very drinkable now. Finesse and pretty style Pinot Noir
7. The “W” in the background is really an upside down “MJ” - you don’t see it until you are pouring the bottle!
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9. Word Vineyards Pinot Noir won both: “Gold Medal” and “Best of Class” in the Shanghai International Wine Challenge (the ONLY International Wine Competition judged exclusively by sommeliers)
10. 2007 WORD Cabernet Sauvignon, Haystack Peak Vineyards, Napa Valley Hand selected Mountain fruit from the 3 Acre site Haystack Peak Vineyards on Soda Canyon Rd. The ONLY Cabernet Sauvignon ever to made at Williams & Selyem Winery! This is Pinot Noir maker’s Cabernet! - Soft, Elegant & Easy, rich and ripe, but not tannic! Easy to drink now, yet will age beautifully for 10 years! Michael’s wife Teresa calls it “Skinny Wine” you don’t need food with it – its good to drink by itself! Only 100 cases produced – This wine is rare!!
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12. Perfect clusters of Cold Climate Pinot Noir!
13. 2007 WORD Petite SyrahTres Niños Vineyard, Arroyo Grande Tres Niños Vineyard produces dark purple petite Syrah berries that create a wine that will stain your teeth, the glass and everything else it touches! Soft and smooth for Petite Syrah - this is not a tannic beast, but rich with ripe sweet fruit and lots of vanilla from the Expensive French oak barrels - this wine aged for 20 months in luxury! Only 50 cases produced ! This is a fun wine!