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CURRENT TOP SELLERS
|
RED |
WHITE |
| Benegas 2006 "Don Tiburcio" Mendoza |
Mourat 2008 Loire
Valley Chenin/Chardonnay |
| RUBUS 2007 Napa
Valley Cabernet Stag's Leap District |
Salneval 2008
Albarino |
| J.K. Carriere 2007
Pinot Noir "Provocateur" |
HB 2009 Picpoul |
| Triton 2008
Tempranillo |
Shaya 2009 Verdejo
Rueda |
| Grand Veneur 2007
Lirac "Clos de Sixte" |
Araldica 2008 2008
Gavi |
We are here
New Press
 Yalumba
2008 Barossa
Shiraz/Cabernet
"The
Scribbler"
($18.99)
- "Yalumba
has remained
steadfast in
its
commitment
to the
Cabernet
Sauvignon
blend. Some
of
Australia's
most
legendary
wines have
been made in
this style,
and at the
forefront
has been
Yalumba, who
set the
benchmark
with 'The
Signature'
series of
wine, made
continuously
since 1962.
Yalumba 'The
Scribbler'
Cabernet
Sauvignon &
Shiraz is a
youthful
embodiment
of 'The
Signature'
which
reflects our
dedication
to this
blend and
celebrates
its
heritage."
[The
Signature
goes for
about $55.]
"Smooth and
round,
brimming
with
nutmeg-accented
plum and
berry
flavors,
lingering on
the
creamy-textured
and
-flavored
finish.
90
points!
Drink now
through
2016." -
Wine
Spectator
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New World, Old World
Bodegas
Triton 2008
Tempranillo
Castillo y
León
($19.99)
- "This new
blockbuster
wine is from
winemaker
Amy
Hopkinson
and importer
Jorge
Ordonez.
Made of 100%
Tinta de
Toro (Also
known as
Tempranillo).
The winery
is located
in the
village of
Villanueva
de Campean
near Zamora
in the
historic
area known
as de la
Tierra del
Vino, The
Land of
Wine. And
also near
the
appellation
of Toro. The
estate is
being farmed
using
organic and
biodynamic
practices,
and the old
vines for
this wine
range in age
from
45-104 years.
Soils are a
nice mixture
with a lot
of sand and
river rocks,
and sun
strata red
clay typical
for
Toro. Triton
has also
been aged in
French
oak for 15
months.
Beautiful
violet
aromas and a
wonderful
balance.
Even though
it is big
wine there
is a certain
elegance
with nice
ripe plums,
great spice,
some
chocolate
notes, but
also nice
smoky and
meaty notes
on the
palate. Not
to mentions
the wine is
half the
cost of what
it should
be."
Domaine
Bergerie 2008
Anjou Rouge
($13.99)
- 100% Loire
Valley
blend falls
somewhere
between Cabernet
Sauvignon and
Gamay.
Organic.
Tasting notes:
A deep garnet-red
colour, dark-purple
glints, and
glistening
streaks.
Expressive nose,
with distinct
fragrance of
ripe black
berries (black
currants, black
berries, black
cherries), with
a chocolaty
note... A clean
attack on the
mouth, which
associates
fruitiness,
freshness and
generosity. [Translated]
And I'm waiting
eagerly for the
Rubus 2007
Napa Valley
Cabeernet
Sauvignon
($19.99)
- From anonymous
sources, 100%
Napa Valley
Stag's Leap
District
Cabernet
Sauvignon from
the awesome 2007
vintage. "Its
long finish
displays full
mature flavors
of blackberry,
currantand
chocolate with
just a hint of
toasty oak and
black cherry.
The tannins are
refined and
polished,
allowing the
fruit to be the
focus. Serve
this Napa Valley
Cabernet
Sauvignon with a
variety of bold
preparations
ranging from
Osso Bucco to
grilled red
meats and
cheeses."
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Quick Note
BACK IN
STOCK:
Domaine
Puig-Parahy
2007 Côtes
du
Roussillon
"Georges"
($13.99)
- "The
Puig-Parahy
2007 Cotes
du
Roussillon
Georges - a
cuvee of
Carignan and
Grenache
with a bit
of Syrah,
raised in
tank (from
which I
tasted it) -
smells of
blackberry,
wood smoke,
toasted
walnut,
rosemary,
and
marjoram;
offers a
brightly-fruited,
slightly
tart and
grainy
palate
impression,
and finishes
with a
pungency of
herb and
fruit skin,
a vigorous
brightness,
chalk and
stone
minerality,
and sheer
grip
(accompanied
by a faint
"chew") that
can scarcely
be expected
from a wine
destined to
sell for so
little. This
whistle-clean
beauty
should
remain
virtually
inert in
tank, so
that when
Puig finally
gets around
to bottling
and selling
it, you will
be able to
count on at
least a
couple of
years of
very
satisfying
and
versatile
performance
at table -
not to
mention
amazing
value.
91 points."
- Wine
Advocate
As is the
Fess
Parker
Frontier Red
($10.99)-
"Aromas of
strawberry,
chocolate,
smoke,
leather,
pepper &
spice will
be found on
the nose. On
the palate
flavors of
blackberry,
plum,
raspberry
and dried
herbs will
be savored.
Enjoy
Frontier Red
with
"everyday"
cuisine,
backyard
BBQ's or
simply by
itself."
And we'll
open this
Friday, but
the
Domaine
Bergerie
2008 Anjou
Rouge
($13.99)
is in. 100%
Loire Valley
Cabernet
Franc, falls
somewhere
between
Cabernet
Sauvignon
and Gamay.
Organic.
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Tasting
Rioja Value!!
Monebuena
2009 Rioja
(ONLY $9.99)
- "The 2009
Montebuena is
100% Tempranillo.
Dark
ruby-colored, it
offers an
appealing
perfume of spice
box, leather,
tobacco, and
blackberry. On
the palate it is
packed with ripe
fruit, has
outstanding
concentration,
and impeccable
balance. It is a
great bargain
that offers a
sneak preview of
the great 2009
vintage in Rioja
and northern
Spain in
general. It
should drink
well for 6-8
years.
90 points."
- Wine
Advocate
Catena Zapata
2007 Cabernet
Sauvignon
Mendoza
($19.99)
- "The 2007
Cabernet
Sauvignon spent
12 months in 85%
French oak, 30%
new, and 15% new
American oak. A
glass-coating
opaque purple
color, it
displays an
enticing nose of
wood smoke,
eucalyptus,
tobacco, cassis,
and black
currant.
Medium-bodied
and elegant, it
has intense red
and black fruit
flavors, good
integration of
oak, tannin, and
acidity,
excellent depth,
and a lengthy,
fruit-filled
finish. It will
evolve for 2-3
years but can be
enjoyed now.
90 points.
Bodegas
Catena-Zapata
remains the
reference point
for Argentina
wines. These
three
value-priced
wines exemplify
the focus on
quality. The
-regular-
bottling of
Chardonnay is an
annual candidate
for Chardonnay
value of the
year." - Wine
Advocate
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Buller Stickie
Just in the ddor
after we saw this on
an inventory sale.
The Muscat is made
through a Solera
process, so I've
included the Wine
Advocate history for
this wine. Both
Parker and Miller
contributed to the
reviews...
R.L. Buller Muscat
"Calliope" Rutherglen
Australia $79.99/375ml
(was $114.99)
Feb 2009
- 96 points:
All of these wines are
the products of a solera
system and are
essentially identical
from year to year.
Readers are referred to
past Australia reviews
(the most recent in
Issue 173) for more
detailed descriptions of
these luscious wines.
Oct 2007 -
99 points:
The N.V. Calliope Muscat
is dark amber-colored
with aromas and flavors
of figs, dates, prunes,
and maple syrup. The
wine is amazingly fresh
and well-defined with a
finish that goes on and
on.
Oct 2005 -
96 points:
The Calliope Rare
Muscat's light amber
color is followed by an
intoxicating fragrance
that includes scents of
prunes, figs, maple
syrup, molasses, and
gobs of fruit. The
glycerin is
extraordinary, the acid
level provides freshness
and definition, and the
finish lasts over a
minute.
Aug 2003 -
100 points:
The Calliope Rare Muscat
boasts a deep, dark
amber color as well as
layers of flavor and
constantly changing
aromatics of brown
sugar, fig, molasses,
and Lord knows what
else. It is an
extraordinary beverage.
These Australian
treasures are fabulous
to drink at the end of a
meal. Moreover, once
opened, they will hold
for several weeks,
sometimes longer.
Oct 2002 -
99 points:
The Calliope is pure
perfection. It is an
amber-colored nectar
with extraordinary
perfume, incredible
richness, and a finish
that lingers on the
palate, seemingly,
forever. At $50, it is a
steal. Australia
continues to be a
treasure trove for
fortified, after-dinner
wines. Once bottled,
they do not change, and
often age up to a decade
where well stored. After
opening, most will last
for a week. This is one
of the top wine
discoveries of this
year's tastings. Many
consumers are going to
be overjoyed with this
offering.
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Friday Tasting
Bernard
Griffin
2008 Sauvignon Blanc
Washington State
($12.99)
- Classic Sauvignon
Blanc nose of citrus
and grapefruit with
light herbal notes.
Generous lime and
tangerine flavors
nicely accented by a
touch of cream. Dry,
crisp, cleansing and
refreshing. This a
great summer sipper
and makes the palate
absolutely crave for
shellfish and
seafood.
New Vintage!!
Shaya
2009 Verdejo Old
Vines ($15.99)
-
"The Verdejo grapes
for the 2009 Shaya
are sourced from
both estate
vineyards and local
growers with vine
age ranging from
75-112 years. The
wine was
barrel-fermented and
aged on its lees.
Medium
straw-colored, if
offers up an
alluring aroma of
baking spices,
spring flowers, and
peach. On the palate
it has a creamy
texture, vibrant
acidity, and intense
flavors leading to a
lengthy,
fruit-filled finish.
It is a great value
in dry, aromatic
white wine that
over-delivers in a
big way. Bodegas
Shaya is a new
collaboration
between the Gil
family of Jumilla
and importer Jorge
Ordonez.
91 points."
- Wine Advocate
Domaine
Robert Sérol
2008 Côte Roannaise
'Vieilles Vignes'
($15.99)
- About 40 miles
west of Lyon &
Beaujolais, near the
"bottom" of the
Loire River, is this
dinky appellation.
It's 100% Gamay, and
a delicious example
of the grape for
sure. 45 year old
vines. Nose is
fresh, intense plums
& strawberries
sprinkled with white
pepper and fresh
flowers. Sits
lightly and nicely
on the palate.
Bright fruit, good
acidity, light body
but not thin.
Altos del
Cuco
2008 Yecla ($9.99)
- Altos del Cuco has
an intense,
maroon-red color and
aromas of
blackberries, mature
fruit, and a touch
of vanilla and
cinnamon. The
tannins are soft and
the texture is
fleshy with well
balanced acidity and
an elegant finish.
40% Monastrell - 30%
Syrah- 30
Tempranillo.
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Elk Cove Mount
Richmond
"There is a quiet
kind of excitement
in the Willamette
Valley after harvest
2008. Phrases and
clichés keep rolling
on such as classic
cool climate,
vintage conditions
that are only dreamt
of, potential to
show the best of
what Oregon has to
offer. Add to this,
repeated references
to perhaps one of
Oregon's best
vintages, 1999 and
understandably many
in the valley are
smiling. Oregon's
2008 growing season
started late, with
bud break on average
ten days to two
weeks behind
schedule and
followed with a
relatively cool
growing season.
Thoughts of the
recent wet and cool
harvest of 2007 had
many aggressively
thin vineyards to
concentrate fruit
and speed up
ripening and ward
off disease
pressure. Yet as in
1999, a beautiful
Oregon autumn saved
the day! Fall was
spectacular with
sunny days and cold
nights, producing
the tiny berries and
small clusters not
seen since the 1994
and 1998 vintages,
laying the
foundation to
produce
extraordinary
wines."
Elk Cove
Vineyards 2008 Pinot
Noir Willamette
Valley "Mount
Richmond" ($44.99)
-"Smooth
and silky,
delivering a root
beer-like sassafras
and anise character
weaving through the
blackberry, cherry,
and spice flavors
with transparency
and vibrancy. Picks
up some cream and
tobacco as the
finish lingers.
94 points.
Best from 2012
through 2018."
Wine Spectator
(May 19, 2010)
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Grand Veneur
I've been
patiently
waiting for this
one to
resurface.
Domaine Grand
Veneur 2007
Lirac "Clos de
Sixte" ($23.99)-
93
points -
Robert Parker:
"The 2007 Lirac
Clos de Sixte is
composed of 50%
Grenache, 35%
Syrah, and 15%
Mourvedre.
Abundant
licorice,
graphite, black
cherry, and
blackberry
characteristics
are offered in a
full-bodied,
deep, fleshy
style. Liracs
generally do not
age as long as
Chateauneuf du
Papes, but this
effort is
capable of
lasting 5-7
years where
well-stored as
it is a big,
impressively
endowed wine."
(MSRP $26.99)
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Spain
 Venta
Morales 2009
Tempranillo
La Mancha
($8.99)-
"The
2009 Venta
Morales is
100%
Tempranillo
raised in
stainless
steel. Deep
crimson-colored,
it emits
aromas of
spice box
and fragrant
black
cherry. On
the palate
licorice and
other black
fruits
emerge
leading to a
finish with
no hard
edges. Drink
this
excellent
value over
the next 2-3
years.
87 points."
Bodegas
Juan Gil
2007 Juan
Gil Jumilla
($15.99)-
"The
 2007
Juan Gil is
also 100%
Monastrell
from
45-year-old
vines aged
for 12
months in
French and
American
oak.
Purple-colored
with an
enticing
bouquet of
underbrush,
cedar, plum,
and
blueberry,
on the
palate it is
dense,
sweetly-fruited,
and
concentrated.
Drink this
nicely
balanced
effort over
the next 4-5
years.
90 points."
 Bodegas
Muga 2009
Rioja Rosado
($11.99)-"The
2009 Muga
Rose is a
mix of red
and white
grapes, 60%
Garnacha,
30% Viura,
and 10%
Tempranillo
which spends
2 months in
American oak
vats. Medium
pink-colored
with a
pretty nose
of
strawberry
and rhubarb,
on the
palate it is
dry, crisp,
and tasty in
a slightly
austere
style which
more
sophisticated
imbibers may
find
appealing.
Drink it
over the
next 12-18
months.
88 points."
Numanthia
2006 Termes
Toro
($32.99)-"The
2006 Termes
is
inky black
with an
enticing
perfume of
mineral,
spice box,
leather, and
blackberry.
Succulent,
concentrated,
and
impeccably
balanced, it
has enough
structure to
blossom for
another 2-3
years but
can be
approached
now.
92 points."
[Bodegas
Numanthia-Termes
was sold by
the Eguren
family to
Moet-Hennessey
prior to the
2006
vintage.
What this
might
ultimately
mean for
quality or
style of the
wine remains
to be seen
but there is
no
questioning
the
performance
of the 2006
and 2007
vintages.]
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Pinot Press
Sequana
2007
Pinot Noir
Russian River "Sundawg"
($54.99)-
"This
distinctive
Pinot Noir...is
totally dry and
silky and firm
in acidity, yet
soft in fine
tannins. You
might call it
noble. It's
eruptive in
cherries, sweet
smoky bacon,
raspberry
granola and oaky
sandalwood.
Gorgeous,
seductive and
brilliant, a
truly great
Pinot Noir
that's
impeccable now.
97
points -
Editor's Choice."
-
Wine Enthusiast
St Innocent
Winery
2006 Willamette
Pinot Noir "Seven
Springs"
($53.99)
-
"The 2006 Pinot Noir
Seven Springs
Vineyard offers a
complex bouquet of
pain grille, spice
box, damp earth,
black cherry, and
black raspberry.
This is followed by
a medium- to
full-bodied wine
with gobs of dark
fruits, intense,
savory flavors
excellent depth and
concentration, and a
45-second finish.
92
points.
Drink it from 2010
to 2018." - Wine
Advocate
St Innocent Winery
2007 Willamette
Pinot Noir "White
Rose" ($55.99)
-
"The 2007 Pinot Noir
White Rose Vineyard
is the most elegant
wine of the
portfolio. It offers
up a nearly ethereal
perfume of spice
box, mineral, rose
petal, incense, and
assorted red fruits.
Medium-bodied,
velvety, and
complex, it has a
nervy energy that
makes it hard to
resist now. However,
it has the balance
to provide pleasure
for another 8-10
years. 92
points."
- Wine Advocate
St Innocent
Winery
2006 Willamette
Pinot Noir "Shea"
($53.99)
-"The
2006 Pinot Noir Shea
Vineyard is a
candidate for Shea
of the vintage as
well as my choice in
this portfolio. It
is the richest, most
concentrated, and
complex as well as
the best balanced,
nicely concealing
enough structure to
evolve for 4-5
years, about as much
as one can expect
from this vintage.
It should be at its
best from 2012 to
2021.
94
points."
- Wine Advocate
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Varner "Bee
Block"
Now having been in the wine business for almost fourteen (14!) years, I've become skeptical (or desensitized) of higher and higher wine ratings. Current wine-making manipulation and resultant grade inflation often assign the highest scores to the biggest gorilla in the room (Shiraz is a fantastic example). So when I saw a 95er from RMParker for the Varner Bee Block Chardonnay, I would expect to be beaten down by a butter-soaked, toasted-oak ax handle. I was wrong.
Fortunately, at trade tasting last Sunday, I had the opportunity to meet Jim Varner and he presented his Bee Block Chardonnay. Here's the reviewers spin:
" 95 points. The incredible 2007 Chardonnay Bee Block is a tour de force in mountain Chardonnay. Honeysuckle, crème brulée, buttered citrus, white peach, and baked apple characteristics emerge from this full-bodied, intense effort. With great acidity as well as fabulous precision and purity, it can be enjoyed over the next 7-8 years." - Robert Parker, Jr., Wine Advocate
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New Arrivals
Back In Stock:Hahn
2008 Riesling
Piesporter
Michelsburg
($9.99)
- This wine
appears fruit
forward, light
bodied and easy
sipping with
light
effervescence.
It is a
wonderful summer
sipper or
aperitif wine.
It will also
accompany most
light seafood,
poultry and veal
dishes. The
wine shows very
nice fruits,
mineral finesse
with a very well
balanced finish.
(MSRP $11.99)
New Rosés
hitting the
market -
Domaine de la
Mordorée 2009
Côtes du Rhône
"La Dame Rousse"
Rosé ($15.99)
- The 2009 is
another in a
string of
excellent
vintages (save
2002): Wine
Spectator..."Growers
reported
extremely
healthy
conditions in
the vineyards,
thanks to the
dry conditions,
along with dark
color, ripe
expressive fruit
and soft, but
substantial
tannins.
Comparisons to
other great
vintages were
common among
growers. 'Since
1974, we have
never seen such
beautiful grapes
at the end of
the season,'
said Frédéric
Coulon of
Domaine de
Beaurenard
in
Châteauneuf-du-Pape."
This rosé is the
prelude for the
Rouge releases
to follow. I
can't wait.
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Closeout, Twitter
[I thought I would NEVER
be saying this, BUT:
We're going to give the
Twitter thing a go -
rest assured, we will
use it sparingly and
judiciously. Sign up
here -
http://twitter.com/WSPurveyors]
More CLOSEOUTS!! Two
Syrahs from top
producers for a song, a
jingle even.
Sometimes a deal comes
along that really makes
the eyebrows peak - here
are a couple...
SOLD OUT Viader 2002 Syrah Napa Valley
($19.99)
- This demanded further
examiniation. A $65 NAPA VALLEY
Syrah for $20?? What's up with
that? Simply, at $65, it was WAAAAY
over-priced. $20 is more in-line,
and it's drinking beautifully right
now - we double-checked last night.
4 six-packs in.
·
Wine Spectator
- "A subtle, somewhat subdued
effort, with lots of rich creamy
mocha, wild berry and espresso bean
flavors that pick up a touch of
earth and sage and finish with a
long, intense and concentrated
aftertaste. 1,052 cases made.
Through 2010.
89 points."
·
Wine Advocate
(Robert Parker) - "An aromatic, sexy
Syrah, Viader's 2002 offers up
scents of ripe figs, plums, smoke,
currants, and flowers. Medium-bodied
and soft, with low acidity, it is a
seductive, alluring, elegant effort
to enjoy now and over the next 3-4
years.
89 points."
Amazing what one point can do - if
this had made it to 90 points, this
deal would never have happened.
SOLD OUT Ridge 2005 Dry Creek Valley Syrah
"Lytton West" $19.99 (was $36)
- more deals from the Left Coast. 4
cases in.
-
California Grapevine
(Vol. 35, No. 4,
August-September 2009):
"Medium-dark to dark ruby;
attractive, very spicy,
fragrant, sweet black cherry and
blackberry fruit aroma with
notes of cocoa and creamy oak;
full body; forward, rich, plush,
plummy, sweet blackberry fruit
flavors with distinct varietal
character; full tannin;
lingering aftertaste. Very
appealing to taste now though
some tasters thought the oak was
too dominant. Very
highly recommended."
-
Connoisseurs' Guide to
California Wine
(March 2009):
"There is a sense of refinement
and pure precision about this
bottling that not only moves it
to the head of the class but
sets it in a class all its own.
Very deep and impeccably
structured, it eschews runaway
ripeness in favor of layered
richness and real nuance, and it
begs for comparison with the
fine wines of Côte Rotie rather
than its more blustery
Californian kin. It is as classy
and sophisticated as local Syrah
is likely to get, and it is
bound to age famously by dint of
balance and depth."
Rated: 95 (***)
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Back in Stock:
Venta Morales
2008 Tempranillo La
MAncha ($7.99):
"Inky purple. Fresh
cherry and dark
berries on the nose,
with a hint of smoke
coming up with air.
Firm and focused,
with dried red and
dark fruit flavors
and chewy tannins.
Nothing jammy about
this wine. The
finish is firm,
dusty and nicely
persistent. A
steal.
87 points." -
International
Wine Cellar
The 2008 Venta
Morales is a
phenomenal value.
Sourced from a
32-year-old vineyard
with tiny yields of
two tons per acre,
the wine was
fermented and raised
in stainless steel.
It reveals a
remarkably deep
color for its humble
price, fragrant
black cherry aromas,
ripe, round, savory
fruit on the palate,
and excellent depth
and length. It
over-delivers in a
very big way.
88 points."
- Wine Advocate
Back in
Stock:
Layer Cake 2008 Shiraz South
Australia ($16.99):
"Super Value. It has oodles
of fruit, a big, thick,
juicy mouthfeel, velvety
tannins, and lots of crème de
cassis, blackberry, peppery, and
tar-like notes in a deep,
full-bodied, lush style that
should drink nicely for 3-4
years.
90 points." -
Wine Advocate
New Press
for Organic madman Jean Paul
Brun:
SOLD OUT Jean Paul Brun 2008
Beaujolais Blanc Chardonnay "Terres
Dorées" ($17.99):
Delicious. "The Terres Dorées
2008 Beaujolais Blanc Chardonnay
smells of lime, oregano, diverse
flowers, white peach, and an
apparent amalgam of chalk dust
and sea breeze. With a
formidable sense of underlying
density and mysterious
minerality, allied to luscious,
vivacious peach and lime fruit,
it displays a fine sense of
richness - while remaining, at
12% alcohol, quite light - and
finishes with irresistible
juiciness and savor, reminiscent
of Chenin Blanc or Riesling in
its shimmering interchange of
fruit and mineral. One can
relish it anytime over the next
several years, although it would
be a shame to miss out on its
youthful state. 91
points." -
Wine Advocate
Jean Paul Brun 2008 Beaujolais "Terres
Dorées" L'Ancien Vieilles Vignes
($17.99):
This kicks Oregon's tail.
"High-toned cherry, kirsch
distillate and cherry pit all
typical of Gamay on Southern
Beaujolais's chalk-clay soils mark
the nose of Brun's 2008 Beaujolais
L'Ancien Vieilles Vignes. A pure,
bright, refreshing palate suffused
with suggestions of chalk and salt
and with its cyanic bitterness
invigoratingly woven into its carpet
of bright fruit, this finishes with
riveting purity and rapier
intensity, if not complexity. This
will be worth following for at least
2-3 years.The 2005 - which I tasted
again side by side the 2008 - is
superb now. 90
points."
- Wine Advocate
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Another NAPA VALLEY SALE
from The Other Guys!!
Pennywise Red
Wines at $14.99 from
$21.99 - that's like 30%
off!!
Pennywise 2005 Napa
Valley Petite Sirah
- This blockbuster inky
purple Petite Sirah is
rich with blueberry,
boysenberry and cassis
fruit, raw cinnamon and
a hint of molasses. The
fleshy mid palate is
juicy and generous with
ripe plum and a refined
tobacco, sweet cherry
essence, which finishes
with sweet toffee and
vanilla notes. With its
rich tannin level and
dry oak profile this
wine is approachable
now, but age well
through the years.
Pennywise 2005 Napa
Valley Cabernet
Sauvignon
- The '05 Pennywise Cab
blends fruit from the
Solari Vineyard in
Calistoga and the Gamble
Vineyard in Yountville
and ages the wine in 70%
new/30% one-year-old
French oak barrels. It's
well built with a core
of black cherry and
cassis fruit, oak
accents and supply
tannins that make this
enjoyable now and able
to age a few years, too.
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New Arrival
Bodegas Benegas 2006 Mendoza
Red Wine "Don Tiburcio" ($12.99)
- While the 2006 Don Tiburcio
has yet to be rated, the 2006
vintage overall looks to surpass
the 2005. "Verdict -
The results already suggest a
superior quality in comparison
to the very good 2005 vintage."
Decanter.
Slightly different blend this
year: 50% Malbec, 20% ungrafted
80 year-old Cabernet Franc, 20%
Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit
Verdot and 5% Merlot. More
Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon
this year. Less Petit Verdot and
Merlot. Fermented in concrete.
Each lot aged separately for 10
months in new French oak and an
additional 8 months in barrique
after blending.
I think we went through over 30
cases of the 2005; and we'll
open this Friday. BUT if you
simply cannot wait until then,
the 2006 is in stock and ready
for you.
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 Bodegas
Borsao 2008 Grenache
"Monte Oton" ($8.99)
- ""Opaque
ruby. Black raspberry
and cracked pepper on
the nose, plus a hint of
rose. Tangy, focused red
berry flavors show good
energy and betray no
rough edges. The spicy
note repeats on the
nicely persistent, juicy
finish. This is an
incredible value.
88 points."
- International Wine
Cellar
 75
Wine Company 2007 Red
Wine "The Sum" ($19.99)
- "This
is an absolute steal
when it comes to
high-class wine. A blend
of 75% Cabernet
Sauvignon, 15% Syrah,
and 10% Petite Sirah,
there are 5,200 cases of
this wine, which is
truly outstanding and an
amazing value. Sweet
blue and black fruits,
camphor, and spice box
all jump from the glass
of this dense, medium to
full-bodied, juicy,
supple wine, which is a
hedonist's dream come
true. This is a beauty
to drink over the next
4-5 years. California
and Napa Valley need
wines like this.
Don't dare pass it by!
91 points."
- Wine Advocate.
2007 was a
fantastic vintage for
this wine.
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Even More Reds:
 Spanish
Value:
Ópera Prima 2008
Tempranillo La Mancha
($6.99!!)
- "Dark,
vivid red. Spicy,
uncomplicated red berry
aromas display admirable
purity, especially for
this price. Brisk, tangy
redcurrant and cherry
flavors are given spine
by nervy acidity and
seem tannin-free. What
this lacks in complexity
it makes up in zestiness
and sheer value. 87
points." -
International Wine
Cellar.
And the
Protocolo is
also on sale $6.99.
Back in Stock:
Les Hauts de la Brune
2007 Coteaux de
Languedoc ($11.99 MSRP
$14.99) -
No press from anyone -
thank goodness. Syrah
with 10% each of
Grenache and Mourvèdre.
 French
Value: From the maker
of Las Rocas, 91 points
for $15 - insane!! SOLD
OUT
Domaine Lafage 2007
Grenache Noir "Cuvée
Nicolas" VdP des Côtes
Catalanes ($14.99)
- Also bottled under the
name "Cote Grenache,"
the Lafage 2007 Cuvee
Nicolas is 100%
Grenache, from Les
Aspres and Maury. This
is fermented in large
oak casks, and a portion
is aged in 500 liter
barrels. A gorgeous
fresh strawberry and
raspberry fruit is
tinged with salt,
crushed stone, and white
pepper, and the team
here has once again
managed to combine
flattering texture with
vivacious brightness,
just as they do in their
white wines. For all of
the ravishing purity of
its fruit, I don't know
of another red wine at
remotely this low a
price about which I
could say it leaves your
palate covered with
totally fascinating
impressions of things
mineral. Getting the
ripeness right in Maury
is extremely tricky,
Lafage opines. "One day
it can be 15% (potential
alcohol) but the flavors
aren't quite ripe. Two
days of wind, and then
suddenly it's gone over
the top." The only thing
over-the-top about this
wine is the value it
offers! 91 points." -
Wine Advocate
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ON SALE!! Bodegas Catena
2007 Malbec Mendoza Arentina
$19.99 (was $23.99)
- #69 Wine Spectator Top 100
-
The 2007 Catena Malbec shows a
dark violet color with deep
bluish - black tones. The nose
offers ripe, concentrated dark
fruit aromas with delicate
floral notes and traces of
vanilla and mocha. The mouthfeel
is rich and lush, with
concentrated black cherry and
red currant fruit flavors
layered with sweet spices,
tobacco and a touch of leather.
The finish presents soft, supple
tannins with bright, crisp
acidity and a flinty minerality
which gives the wine exceptional
length.
Wine Advocate -
"The purple-colored 2007
Catena Malbec spent 12 months in
35% new French and American oak.
The nose reveals balsam wood,
vanilla, mocha, cassis, and
black cherry. Plush on the
palate, this medium-bodied
Malbec has layered, spicy
flavors, with a touch of tobacco
and leather making an
appearance. Balanced and
lengthy, it will evolve for 2-3
years and offer prime drinking
from 2011 to 2019. 91
Points."
Wine Spectator
- "A sleek, polished style, with
alluring mocha and raspberry
ganache notes, backed by dark
plum, hoisin sauce and graphite
flavors. This has serious
weight, but stays focused and
driven. Drink now through 2011.
91 Points."
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SchoolHouse Kitchen
Just in the door
(they're still cold) is a new line I ran across at
Epicurious.com -
SchoolHouse
Kitchen.
The article was on "The
Best of the Summer Fancy Food Show" - SchoolHouse
Kitchen's three new product offerings (Squadrilla
Chutney, Horseradish Dill Mustard, and Ginger Lime
Vinaigrette) impressed us with their originality and
balance. But what really appeals to us is the
philanthropic element of the venture: The family-owned
business has donated to tons of charities, including
March of Dimes, Homeless Solutions, and the Cal Ripken
Foundation.
Beginning with
SweetSmoothHot Mustard, Patsy Smith, a graduate of Miss
Hall's School and Smith College, launched her company,
SchoolHouse Kitchen, in 2005 with the mission to raise
funds for educational organizations and to make her
gourmet products available to more people.
Patsy's longtime friend,
Betsy Dingwell, shared her recipe for our SweetSmoothHot
Mustard with the caveat that the recipe remain secret
and that any profits made be used for the good of the
public (or nonprofits). Along with Patsy's commitment to
education, this wish helped inspire the mission of our
company.
Patsy's dear friend, Nan
Bardshar Dillon Joyce, was good enough to share her
family's chutney recipe, and it became a part of the
Smith family's treasured recipes, which today you may
enjoy as Bardshar Chutney.
SchoolHouse Kitchen
Mustards and Chutneys have also been featured in
Oprah Magazine, Food and Wine, Bon Apetit,
Fancy Food Magazine, New York Magazine,
and Fork and Bottle Online.
These mustards contain a smooth creamy base that is
unique and inviting. Take your pick from one that is a
bit sweeter or one with a bit more kick. These mustards
are superb as rubs for roasting and grilling all kinds
of fish, meat, sausages, poultry, and vegetables. Make
your sandwiches extra-special, or add in as a base for
salad dressings or your favorite potato salad. Try them
as ready-made dips for chicken tenders, mini sausages,
egg rolls, pretzels, cheese, and vegetables. Like all
SchoolHouse Kitchen products, the mustards are made
without the use of additives or unnatural preservatives.
 SchoolHouse
Kitchen SweetSmoothHot Mustard ($5.50)
- Sometimes
you've just got to tell it like it is: our natural
SweetSmoothHot Mustard has a unique flavor combination
that is just as the name reads-sweet, hot, and
uncommonly smooth. This mustard is sure to enhance
almost any food without overwhelming your taste buds. If
you've already tried it, we know why you're here. If
this is your first time, get ready to add a bit more
balance to your life.
 SchoolHouse
Kitchen Horseradish-Dill Mustard ($5.50)
- Wendy nudged
Patsy. Patsy kicked it into gear and, after ages in the
kitchen, she created an outstanding mustard with real
flair and real kick! Bringing more spice than our first
mustard, we have added horseradish to maintain the heat
and dill to deliver a calming finish.
Their chutneys are
extraordinarily versatile and offer flavors that are
complex enough to complement the most daring dishes and,
yet, subtle enough to enhance your long-standing family
recipes. Use their chutneys as divine accompaniments to
any meat, poultry, fish or vegetarian dishes. These
chutneys make tasty spreads in sandwiches, enhance
sauces, marinades and glazes, and elevate many dips,
hors d'oeuvres and cheese platters. Be adventuresome and
make chutney your new staple condiment.
 SchoolHouse
Kitchen Bardshar Chutney ($6.50)
- The complex
taste of this apple-peach chutney is altogether savory,
sweet and spicy. As we say, Bardshar Chutney has never
met a meat or cheese that it doesn't like-and it will
surely be your best new burger topper. This recipe was
given to Patsy by her late-friend Nan. When asked for
the recipe, Nan's mother intentionally omitted
ingredients to keep its secret. Eventually their family
managed to reassemble the recipe to its original sublime
taste, which we now offer to you as all-natural Bardshar
Chutney (in honor of Nan's family).
 SchoolHouse
Kitchen Squadrilla Chutney ($6.50)
- This
distinctively robust, orange-chili chutney pulls
seemingly opposing flavors together to create an
original condiment that keeps your palate interested.
This recipe traveled from friends along the
California/Mexico border to the East Coast where Patsy
added her own twist of unique flavors. Use it on any
dinner dish, and if you have any left, try it on your
morning toast for a real kick!
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Chateau Smith
A mixed bag, including:
K Vintners 2006 "Chateau
Smith" Cabernet Savignon
Columbia Valley ($19.99)
- "Delicious
Cabernet Sauvignon.
Aromatics galore-cigar box,
pencil lead, cedar and
currants with super refined
tannins and a long, fine
finish. French? No. Chateau
Smith? OUI!"
Food & Wine Magazine 2009
American Wine Awards
Winemaker of the Year
By Richard Nalley.
"Nine years ago, this
California native was
managing a rock band in
Copenhagen when he made an
unusual career shift: 'I
left my life in Denmark and
moved to Walla Walla,
Washington, where I knew
exactly one person.' That
was Cayuse Vineyards'
Christophe Baron, who had
rhapsodized to Smith about
the potential of Washington
Syrah. Smith taught himself
how to make wine by creating
minuscule lots of Syrah for
his own K brand. Now his
wines are some of
Washington's most
sought-after. And Smith's
The Magnificent Wine Company
wines (House Wine Red and
White) and "modernist"
Charles Smith Wines (The
Velvet Devil Merlot, Kung Fu
Girl Riesling and more) are
among the best values
anywhere. Despite his
success, Smith remains a
rocker at heart, with the
80-mph motorcycle habit to
prove it."
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New Values
Cava has recently been an easy
"go-to" for under-$10 sparkling
wine values. Here's a new one,
with simply-stated packaging to
go with it -
 Dibon
NV Cava Brut Reserve ($9.99):
-
Wine Enthusiast
88 points - A Best Buy:
"Dibon is new to us, and
after tasting this complete,
well-made Cava we are happy
to makes it acquaintance.
The nose offers regal yeast
and richness, while the
palate has complexity to
prop up apple, citrus and
grapefruit flavors. Solid
from front to back, with
health and freshness."
-
"A true bargain, with
subtly sweet apricot flavors
balanced by tart
grapefruit." Bon Appetite
-
A "Good Value"
designation from Wine &
Spirits Magazine: "Dried
apricot and marzipan flavors
meet the nutty bitterness of
this cava. A sweet, soft
wine to serve with herbed
goat cheese in pastry
shells."
On the heels of last Friday's
successful Cono Sur Chardonnay
comes the
Cono Sur 2008 Carmenère ($9.99)
- Until 1991, much of the
Carmenère in Chile was mistaken
for Merlot. Carmenère produces
a depp red wine somewhere
between Cabernet and Merlot in
style..."Good/Very Good.
Best value. Rich,
round, peppery and lively, with
ripe, dark fruits and surprising
acidity. Soft enough for easy
enjoyment, but with plenty of
verve, too." - Wall Street
Journal
New vintage for the
Finca El Reposo 2009 Mendoza St
Jeannett ($9.99)
Esencia Valdemar 2006 Rioja
Tempranillo SALE!! ($7.99 was
$11.99)
"This wine is made with 100%
Estate-grown Tempranillo. Its
fruity aromas of licorice and
blackberries along with it round
and easy-drinking style make it
a perfect match for most first
courses, meats, barbecues, and
pizza."
New
vintage for the
Rabbit Ridge 2008 Paso Robles "Allure de
 Robles"
Rhône Ranger ($8.99) - "The
first vintage of Allure was in 2005 and was
non-vintage as the vines were too young to
produce the Rhone blend they wanted. That
first year they sold 299 cases. In 2006 they
sold 456 cases. In 2007, they sold 7,514
cases. And in 2008, they sold 8,477 cases.
As of October 2009, they have sold 22,000
cases. The Russell's think this is a sign
that people are realizing the ALLURE of
California Rhone style wines. With the soft
economy and many of the French Cotes du
Rhone wines becoming more expensive, savvy
consumers still want to drink good wine but
at a reasonable price."
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December
7th, 2009...Spectator
TOP 100
Wine Spectator Top 100
Here's what we
have left from
the Top 100
list...get them
while you can.
 #21
:: Neyers 2007
Chardoonnay
Carneros
($34.99)-
"Complex aromas
of smoke, fig
and citrus fold
over to the
palate.
Full-bodied,
with fine
structure and
acidity, along
with flavors
that end up
giving this a
delicate feel.
The aftertaste
is delicious.
Drink now
through 2012.
93 points."
#29 :: Chalone
2007 Chardoonnay
Estate ($24.99)-
"Exhibits a
complex mix of
subtle pear and
mineral with
pleasant earthy
notes and floral
scents. Tight
and full-bodied,
ending with a
long, persistent
finish. Drink
now through
2012.
92 points."
- We opened this
last Friday!
 #61
:: Monte Antico
2006 Toscana
Sangiovese/Merlot/Cabernet
($15.99)
- "Bright plum,
dried cherry and
flowers on the
nose.
Full-bodied,
with fine
tannins and
refined berry
and cherry
flavors. Drink
now.
90 points."
#62 :: Loosen
Bros 2008 Mosel
QbA Riesling
"Dr. L"
($12.99)
- "Sleek and
tangy, showing
apricot, lime
and mango
flavors matched
to a lively
structure.
There's good
harmony and
persistence
through the
finish. Drink
now through
2018.
91 points."
#76 :: Clos la
Coutale 2007
Cahors
($16.99)
- "There's a
sense of
elegance to the
well-defined,
concentrated
flavors of dark
cherry,
blackberry and
plum, followed
by notes of
sage, dark
chocolate and
tobacco leaf on
the long,
powerful finish.
Drink now.
90 points."
 #80
:: Argiano 2007
Toscana "Non
Confundiur"
($27.99)
- "Offers an
interesting
combination of
currant,
raspberry and
meat on the
nose.
Full-bodied,
with chewy
tannins and a
spicy dried
fruit
aftertaste.
Cabernet
Sauvignon,
Merlot,
Sangiovese and
Syrah. Best
after 2011.
91 points."
#83 :: Bodegan
Juan Gil 2006
Jumilla
($16.99)
- "This polished
red shows black
cherry,
licorice,
mineral and
tobacco notes,
harmonious and
deep, supported
by firm tannins.
Medium-bodied,
well-integrated
and stylish.
Drink now
through 2012.
90 points."
#91 :: Four
Vines 2007
Zinfandel Paso
Robles "Biker"
($24.99)
- "Ripe and
gutsy, but
there's enough
finesse and
personality to
make it a
complete
package. Aromas
of wild berry
and white pepper
lead to briary
but complex
plum, anise and
toasty sage
flavors that
finish with
fine, loamy
tannins. Best
from 2011
through 2015.
91 points."
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December
4th, 2009...Chardonnay
Chardonnays
Contrast in
Chardonnay - one
of the most
widely-planted
grapes in the
world, and still
America's most
popular white
wine. Even
still today,
most people do
not realize the
Pouilly-Fuissé
is Chardonnay.
I'll dig
around to see if
there's a White
Burgundy around
to throw in...
 Viña
Cono Sur 2009
Chardonnay Central
Valley Chile ($9.99)-
Wine Spectator's
Daily Pick for
December 3rd:
"Juicy, with a tangy
mix of green apple
and apricot flavors
backed by melon
notes on the
open-knit finish.
Drink now. 9,000
cases imported.
85 points."
 Calera
2007 Chardonnay
Central Coast
California ($17.99)
- "The 2007
Chardonnay Central
Coast reveals notes
of honeysuckle,
orange blossom, and
white peaches,
medium body, and
fine depth as well
as purity. A good
value, it can be
enjoyed over the
next 1-2 years.
88 points."
- Wine Advocate
 Viña
Cobos 2007
Chardonnay "Felino"
Mendoza Argentina
($21.99)
- "Paul Hobbs has
the touch with
Chardonnay. The 2007
Felino Chardonnay
from a vintage that
Hobbs calls "dicey
because of rain",
was 70% fermented in
stainless steel and
30% in barrel. It is
medium gold-colored
with a bouquet of
toasty apple,
poached pear, and
tropical fruit
aromas. Smooth and
seamless on the
palate, it has
surprising depth,
ripe flavors, and a
pure finish. Drink
this awesome bargain
over the next two
years.
91 points."
- Wine Advocate
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December
2nd, 2009...FOODS
New Foods
 Mothais
sur Feuille Goat
Cheese ($9.99)-
This cheese was
born in the Deux-Sevres
region, where it
is still
produced on the
farms. Goat's
cheeses, unlike
mothais, are
generally
ripened in drier
and better
ventilated
cellars than
most of the
other cheeses.
The Mothais is
the exception as
it is matured in
a very humid
cellar with no
ventilation. The
flavour is soft
and delicate, it
literally melts
in ones mouth.
As the Cheese
begins to age it
gets darker and
the chestnut
leaf imparts a
fragrant woodsy
flavor to the
cheese, Serve
with a light,
delicate red
wine.
=========================
I really don't
like to say "No"
to customers.
So, after saying
no so many times
to the question,
"Do you carry
truffel oil?" I
can now say
"YES!!!"
 Sabatino
Tartufi Truffle
Olive Oils
- Just after the
turn of the
century, in
1911,
Sabatino Tartufi
was founded.
Sabatino
Balestra and his
wife Giuseppa
began in a small
storefront in
Montecastrilli,
Umbria, catering
to local
families by
distributing
truffles,
olives, olive
oil and
sardines. Their
vision and
philosophy to
always maintain
the highest
quality
standards and to
provide the
freshest
products has
been passed on
to three
generations and
today is
embodied to its
fullest in the
Sabatino
Tartufi
legacy as it
exists today.
 White
Truffle Oil
($13.99)
- Truffles
are one of
the world's
most complex
and enticing
foods. They
add the
maturity and
complexity
that refined
diners
crave. In
this truffle
seasoning,
the rich
flavor
properties
of the white
truffle,
also known
as "the
fruit of the
woods," is
mixed with
olive oil.
It takes
only a few
drops to
make a rich
enhancement
to the
flavor of
salad,
pasta,
risotto,
fried eggs,
mushroom
dishes and
mashed
potatoes.
Asparagus
with White
Truffle
Vinaigrette
(Sabatino)
2
tablespoons
of
Sabatino
Tartufi
White
Truffle Oil
1 1/2 lbs.
of
asparagus,
washed and
trimmed
1
1/2 tablespoons
extra virgin
olive oil
1 tablespoon
champagne
wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon
fresh lemon
juice
1/2 teaspoon
sea salt
Fresh ground
black pepper
Preparation:
White
Truffle Oil
Vinaigrette:
In bowl
whisk
together
Sabatino
Tartufi
White
Truffle Oil,
olive oil,
champagne
vinegar,
lemon juice,
sea salt,
and few
grindings of
black
pepper. Set
aside and be
sure to
serve at
room
temperature.
Blanch
asparagus in
lightly
salted water
for about
three
minutes, do
not over
cook. Remove
from heat
and place
under cold
water;
drain. Toss
asparagus
with truffle
vinaigrette
to lightly
coat.
Arrange on
serving
platter.
Makes about
4 servings
 Black
Truffle Oil
($11.99)
- The basic
ingredient
is, of
course, our
excellent
olive oil
processed
according to
the old
traditonal
methods.
This product
mixes the
robust,
earthy
characteristics
of black
truffle with
olive oil.
This product
gives its
best results
with first
or main
courses.
Also,
consider
using Black
Truffle Oil
on a sliced
loaf or warm
garlic
bread.
Remember,
just as with
the White
Truffle Oil,
a little
goes a long
way.
Wild
Mushroom
Risotto with
Asparagus &
Black
Truffle Oil
By St.
Supéry chef,
Ron Barber
Risottos
seem a bit
complicated
at first
glance, but
once you get
the hang of
it they are
a great
addition to
any cooks
repertoire.
The basic
preparation
of the rice
remains the
same while
allowing you
to be
creative in
the choice
of
ingredients:
½ pound
assorted
wild
mushrooms -
sliced
(morel,
porcini,
chanterelle
or whatever
is
available)
1 cup
asparagus -
sliced on
the bias
into 1/2"
long pieces
¼ cup
shallots
finely
chopped
1 teaspoon
garlic -
minced
4
tablespoons
unsalted
butter
1 tablespoon
olive oil
1 tablespoon
lemon zest -
grated
1 ½ cup
arborio rice
4 cups veal
stock or low
sodium beef
broth - hot
½ cup
cabernet
sauvignon
(St. Supery
of course!)
½ cup
Italian
parsley -
chopped
¾ cup
parmesan
cheese -
freshly
grated
1 tablespoon
black
truffle oil
salt and
pepper
Place 2
tablespoons
of the
butter and
the olive
oil into a
large sauté
pan. Sauté
the
shallots,
mushrooms
and
asparagus
over medium
heat until
just cooked.
Season to
taste with
salt &
pepper. Set
aside.
Bring the
stock to a
simmer in a
medium
saucepan.
Melt 2
tablespoons
of butter in
a large
saucepan and
sauté the
rice and
garlic for
about 5
minutes -
stirring
constantly.
Add the wine
and cook
until
absorbed.
Add the hot
stock, one
cup at a
time until
each
addition is
absorbed.
The rice
should be
fully cooked
but not
mushy. Add
the
asparagus/mushroom
mixture,
parmesan,
lemon zest
and
parsley.
Adjust the
seasonings
and divide
between 4
warm bowls.
Drizzle with
black
truffle oil
and serve.
Serves 4 as
a main
course.
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November
26th, 2009...New
Arrivals
New Arrival
 Owen
Roe 2007 Syrah
Columbia Valley "Ex
Umbris" ($27.99)
- "Smooth and
velvety, offering a
plush mouthful of
spicy cherry and red
berry
flavors, playing
against plush
tannins and hints of
milk chocolate on
the long, vivid
finish. Syrah. Drink
now through 2014.
3,000 cases made. 92
points."
- Wine Spectator
Roagna 2007 Dolcetto
d'Alba
($18.99)
- "The 2007 Dolcetto
d'Alba offers an
explosion of dark
red fruit, flowers,
licorice and tar
with lovely inner
perfume and gorgeous
balance. With air
this medium-bodied
wine puts on weight
as balsamic notes
emerge, adding
further complexity.
Roagna's Dolcetto
saw an incredible 30
days of maceration
on the skins
followed by a full
year in oak, an
unusual regime in
Piedmont these days
to say the least,
but one which gives
this wine notable
complexity for
Dolcetto.
Anticipated
maturity:
2008-2011.. 89
points."
- Wine Advocate
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November
25th, 2009...New
Arrivals
New Arrivals!!
 Just
in time for
Thanksgiving - more
Bitches. And this
time, they're Fizzy
Bitches!!
Bitch Bubbly NV
Sparkling Wine
($9.99,
$3.99 375ml)
- A blend of
Chardonnay, Shiraz
and Grenache from
Riverland, Barossa
and McLaren Vale
districts. Pale
strawberry in color
with a vibrant nose
of sweet
strawberries and
raspberries with
some toffee notes.
Fresh berries, sweet
candy and citrus on
palate with a long,
luscious creamy
finish. Crown cap.
Reserve yours
today! (This stuff
writes itself).
Bodegas Luzón 2008
Jumilla Red Wine "Luzón"
($8.99)
-
"Opaque ruby.
Blackberry, cracked
pepper and anise on
the nose,
with a suave floral
overtone. Vibrant
dark berry flavors
are nicely framed by
silky tannins and
given depth by a
note of bitter
chocolate. A note of
violet lingers on
the juicy, gently
sweet finish. Hard
to imagine getting
more complexity for
the money.
89 points."
- Steve Tanzer,
International Wine
Cellar
 Loosen
Bros. 2008 QbA Mosel
Riesling "Dr. L"
($12.99)
- "Sleek and tangy,
showing apricot,
lime and mango
flavors matched to a
lively structure.
There's good harmony
and persistence
through the finish.
Drink now through
2018. 90
points - Best Value
- Top 100 #62."
- Wine Spectator.
Great for
Thanksgiving, too.
And "Thank You!" for
your continued
patronage.
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November
24th, 2009...More
BEERS!!
Even More Seasonal Beers
.
 Sierra
Nevada
Celebration
Ale
- Crack
in a
bottle.
"The
long,
cold
nights
of
winter
are a
little
brighter
with
Celebration®
Ale.
Wonderfully
robust
and
rich,
Celebration®
Ale is
dry-hopped
for a
lively,
intense
aroma.
Brewed
especially
for the
holidays,
it is
perfect
for a
festive
gathering
or for a
quiet
evening
at
home."
"...best
beer
ever
made in
America."-
Stan
Sessor,
San
Francisco
Chronicle.
6.8%
abv.
Six-packs
and
twelve-packs.
Tröegs
"Mad
Elf"
Ale
- "The
Mad
Elf,
a
cheerful
creation
to
 warm
your
heart
and
enlighten
your
tongue.
The
combination
of
Cherries,
Honey,
and
Chocolate
Malts
delivers
gentle
fruits
and
subtle
spices.
Fermented
and
aged
with
a
unique
yeast,
this
ruby
red
beer
has
significant
warming
strength
that
underlies
the
pleasant
character
of
this
intriguing
yet
delicious
Ale.
The
Mad
Elf,
a
jolly
and
delicious
beer
for
the
Holidays."
11%
abv.
 Southern
Tier
"Old
Man"
Winter
Ale
-
"With
the
onset
of
winter,
the
brewer's
mind
turns
to
providing
warmth.
For
our
winter
seasonal,
we
offer
a
rich
and
complex
amalgam
of
hops
and
barley
that
will
put
the
feeling
back
in
your
toes
and
lift
your
spirits
above
the
snow.
OMW
throws
a
deep
and
inviting
hue
with
a
thickness
that
clings
to
the
glass
and
the
warmth
of
an
open
flame.
Because
of
its
high
alcohol
content,
Old
Man
is a
heady
brew
that
encourages
sipping
and
pondering
its
essential
richness.
Drink
it
fresh
now,
or
cellar
a
few
bottles
to
see
how
this
old
man
becomes
wiser
with
age."
7.2%
abv.
Southern
Tier
"Phin
&
Matt's"
Extraordinary
Ale
-
"When
we
sat
down
to
collaborate
on
this
beer,
we
knew
we
had
to
create
something
extraordinary.
After
sampling
a
wide
array
of
great
beers,
we
hit
upon
an
idea:
use
vast
amounts
of
whole
hops,
the
finest
malted
barley
North
America
has
to
offer,
and
crystal
filtered
artesian
water.
Thus
creating
this
classic
American
style
pale
ale."
5.4%
abv.
 Anderson
Valley
Brewing
"Winter
Solstice"
-
Listen
to
THIS!!
"From
the
first
sip
of
Winter
Solstice
Seasonal
Ale,
your
senses
will
be
aroused
with
the
vision
of a
glowing
fire,
warming
the
hearth
and
home,
as
gently
drifting
snow
flakes
silently
blanket
the
trees
outside.
Each
lingering
sip
will
gently
warm
your
soul
with
thoughts
of
family
and
friends,
gathering
around
the
table
for
the
feast.
Luscious,
creamy,
smooth,
and
warming,
this
medium
bodied
ale
is
brewed
with
Caramel
and
crystal
malts
to
give
it
just
a
hint
of
sweetness,
then
paired
with
our
private
blend
of
holiday
spice.
Winter
Solstice
Ale
is
great
alone
or
as
an
accompaniment
to
any
meal,
and
it
has
been
known
to
liven
and
spice
up
nearly
any
social
event.
This
coveted
and
much
sought-after
brew
is
released
in
November,
just
in
time
for
the
holidays,
and
by
the
first
of
the
New
Year
will
be
only
a
fond
memory."
6.9%
abv.
Who
could
pass
that
up??
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November
20th, 2009...BEERS!!
More Seasonal Beers
.
 Bell's
Best
Brown
($10.99)
-
Best-selling
beer in
the
store
currently.
"Rich
brown
ale
perfect
for the
fall and
winter.
Plenty
of malt
character
and
smooth
sweet
finish
give
this
brown
ale its
distinct
character."
5.8%
abv.
 Bell's
Winter
White
Ale
($10.99)
- "A
Wheat
Ale
brewed
with
American
Wheat
and a
proprietary
blend of
Hefe and
classic
Belgian-style
yeasts.
A
refreshing
winter
alternative
created
from the
subtle
fusion
of two
classic
flavors."
5.0%
abv.
 Lagunitas
"Brown
Shugga"
($11.99)
- "How
come you
taste so
good??
200
pounds
of pure
brown
sugar in
each
30-barrel
batch,
that's
how!
This
strong
ale
leaves a
lot of
stories
in its
wake."
9.5%
abv.
 Lagunitas
"A
Little
Sumpin'
Extra!
Ale"
($4.99/22oz)
- No
brewery
description.
Big
ratings
from
RateBeer
and Beeradvocate..."Another
tremendous
brew
from
Lagunitas
and a
great
DIPA.
The
price-quality
ration
remains
extraordinary
for
these 22
Oz.
bombers
and
Lagunitas
keeps on
doing
masterful
twists
and
turns to
their
hoppy
craft.
This one
has a
deceptively
mild,
almost
light,
body for
a dipa
and the
high
IBUs are
not that
high but
the way
that
they
have
being
worked
here is
fantastic,
and how
the
aroma
follows
taste
and
pushes
up the
body is
a great
pleasure.
Hop
Stoopid
packs a
bigger
hoppy
punch
and
offers a
bigger
provocation
in that
area, A
Little
Sumpin´
Extra
instead
offers a
more
balanced
version
with a
common
outstanding
craft
and
delight."
8.74%
abv.
 New
Holland
Oatmeal
Stout
"Poet"
($11.99)
- "The
Poet has
a rich,
smooth
malt
character
enveloped
in tones
of roast
and
chocolate.
A soft
mouth-feel
brings
luxurious
flavors
and
soothing
aroma.
Any time
of year,
The Poet
is as
versatile
as it is
delicious.
It pairs
wonderfully
with
earthy
flavors
such as
mushrooms
and
beef,
while
remaining
the
perfect
accent
to any
chocolate
dessert."
5.2%
abv.
New
Holland
Brown
Ale
"Cabin
Fever"
($11.99)
-
"Robust
in
character
yet
smooth
in
delivery,
Cabin
Fever is
a roasty
brown
ale and
a
hearty,
comforting
companion
for
long,
mind-bending
winters.
Its rye,
roast
and
raisin
notes
play off
a subtle
caramel
sweetness
and
culminate
in a dry
finish.
Excellent
with
roasts,
stews,
caramelized
onions
and
snowfall."
6.0%
abv.
 Victory
Stout
"Storm
King"
($14.99)
- "With
a huge,
Pacific
Northwest
hop
aroma &
character
upfront,
Storm
King
subsides
into
massive,
roast
malt
complexity.
More
flavor
than
mere
words
can
adequately
describe.
Rich and
substantial,
it will
warm
your
heart."
9.1%
abv.
Victory
Ale
"Yakima
Twilight"
($14.99)
- "The
tenacious
grip of
big,
juicy
hop
aroma
and
character
slides
smoothly
into
rich,
dark
malts.
This
heavyweight
battle
between
fresh,
Yakima
Valley
hops and
dark,
roasted
malts is
resolved
harmoniously
as the
flavors
merge to
deliver
complex
satisfaction
with a
warming
edge.
Enjoy
the
'twilight'
for the
bright
and
brassy
hops!"
8.7%
abv.
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November
19th, 2009...SALE!!
Red Wines on Sale!!
 Château
Greysac 2005 Médoc
Bordeaux ($15.99 was
$25.99)
- "Has a very pretty
nose of Indian spices,
currant and Christmas
pudding. Full-bodied,
with soft tannins and a
long, caressing finish.
89 points."
- Wine Spectator
Capçanes 2005 Mas Donis
"Barrica" ($13.99 was
$17.99)
- "Mas Donis Barrica is
a custom cuvee made for
importer Eric Solomon
using old-vine Garnacha
(80+ years) and Syrah
(30+ years). The 2005
Mas Donis Barrica is 85
% Garnacha and 15% Syrah
aged for 8 months in
French and American oak
before bottling without
fining or filtration. It
offers up an expressive
nose of slate, mineral,
licorice, violets, black
cherry, and blueberry.
Layered, long, and
complex, this spicy,
hedonistic effort has
2-3 years of aging
potential but can be
enjoyed now without
guilt. It is a great
value.
91 points."
- Wine Advocate
 d'Arenberg
2006 Shiraz McLaren Vale
"Dead Arm" 375ml ($29.99
was $37.99)
- "D'Arenberg's flagship
is the 2006 The Dead Arm
Shiraz. Opaque
purple-colored, the nose
is reticent but gives up
aromas of meat, bacon,
game, truffles,
blueberry, and
blackberry. Firm,
layered, and complex,
this beautifully
rendered Shiraz demands
a decade of cellaring.
It will be superb from
2018 to 2036.
95+ points."
- Wine Advocate
Escarot 2007 Garnacha
Navarra Spain ($7.99 was
$9.99)
- Selected from the top
cuvees of garnacha. Ruby
red in colour with
aromatic fruits on the
nose. Soft jammy fruits
on the palate with soft
tannins and low acidity.
Great body with a fine
structure and soft dry
finish.
Moris-Parentini 2006
Morrelino di Scansano
($13.99 was $17.99)
- "The 2006 Morellino di
Scansano is a
quintessential wine for
the region. It shows the
more delicate, feminine
side of Morellino in its
flowers, fresh berries
and spices. It is as
always accessible and
easy to drink, but the
warmth of the vintage
has given the wine a
little more volume than
is often the case. This,
too, is a great value
and would also be a
terrific choice for a
house wine. Anticipated
maturity: 2008-2010.
89 points."
- Wine Advocate
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November
18th, 2009...New
Beers
New Winter Beers
.
 Bell's
Christmas Ale ($11.99)
- "A malt driven scotch ale,
made with 100% Michigan
grown barley and a blend of
Pacific Northwest and
Michigan hops."
Bell's Rye Stout ($14.99)
- "An abundance of rye
grains provide a spicy twist
to otherwise traditional
stout flavors. A unique
approach to an entirely new
style of stout."
Sam Smith's Winter Welcome
($11.99)
- "This is the 20th year
that the arrival of Samuel
Smith's Winter Welcome Ale
has heralded shorter days
and the end of the warm
months - Winter Welcome was
the first imported winter
seasonal beer, first brought
to the US in 1990. Winter
Welcome's rich honey-amber
color; creamy, complex
flavor and firm strength;
the incomparable Samuel
Smith signature of great
balance and refinement . . .
these are reasons to look
forward to fires, warm
sweaters, and the cozy days
of fall and winter."
 Schlafly
Reserve Iimperial Stout
($13.99)
- "Roasty, rich and malty,
our Imperial Stout is aged
for several months in
freshly-emptied Jim Beam
bourbon barrels, where it
pick up the essential
character of oak, caramel
and bourbon flavors."
Victory Baltic Thunder
($6.50)
- "Truly a worldly beer.
Baltic Thunder represents
the Baltic Porter style
admirably. Exhibiting the
enticing, toffee roast of
the British porter that
originated the style in the
18th century, and the
soothing, subtle fruit
nuance of contemporary brews
that flourish from Helsinki
to Vilnius today, this dark
lager honors the Baltic god
of thunder. Created by an
inspired collaboration of
brewers and tempered with a
touch of turmoil, Baltic
Thunder rolls on to bring
you enchanting light as the
darkness fades."
 Laughing
Dog Imperial Stout "The
Dogfather" ($9.99)
- "I got a brew you can't
refuse. The Dogfather is one
of the biggest brew we have
ever made, weighing in a
10.85% alcohol. 7 malts and
4 hops give it a complex
flavor profile. Over 11
month in the making some of
the DogFather has been
barrel aged. This is a very
limited release with only 40
keg equivalents in draft and
only 300 case made."
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October
23rd, 2009...New
Arrivals
Corvidae (Owen Roe) 2008 Chardonnay
Columbia Valley "Mirth" ($13.99):
We
grabbed the last five cases of this,
as the winery is now sold out (We
will have this for the 15 under 15
tasting as well, if you can't make
it tonight.) LA Times Wine of
the Week, Sept. 3, 2009: "A
project of Oregon's Owen Roe Winery
and offshoot Corvidae winery, Mirth
Chardonnay is a rare commodity -- a
moderately priced Chardonnay that
drinks beautifully. The 2008
vintage, from Washington grapes, is
clean and crisp and not over-oaked.
Notes of apple and citrus coupled
with a bright acidity give this
less-than-$20 Chardonnay an
appealing freshness and elegance.
It's a great Indian summer basic,
easy drinking and perfect with
pretty much anything light, from
omelets and frittatas to seafood
pasta or risotto dishes, seared sea
scallops and fried calamari.
"Corvidae" is named for the family
of birds that includes crows and
ravens. Crows have a long history in
folklore and mythology. David was
inspired to name the label Corvidae
by the many crows that circle the
sky over his winery in Yakima.
Tait 2007 Shiraz Barossa "The Ball
Buster" ($19.99):
The
name itself DEMANDS that we open
this up - Crazy Australians.. "The
Ball Buster blend has been an annual
Best Buy and, even at the current
asking price, the 2007 The Ball
Buster is an awesome value (at least
for hedonists). It is composed of
72% Shiraz, 17% Cabernet Sauvignon,
and 11% Merlot aged for 12 months in
seasoned French and American oak.
Opaque purple-colored, it has a nose
of cedar, leather, spice box, and
blueberry that leaps from the glass.
This is followed by a plush,
full-bodied wine with gobs of flavor
and superior length. This
easy-to-understand effort defines
the meaning of over-delivering and
will do so for another four years.
Tait has established a well-deserved
reputation for full-blown,
pleasure-filled wines. 92
points." - Wine Advocate
 Chris
Ringland 2007 Shiraz Barossa
"Ebenezer" ($21.99):
"Chris
Ringland has received the most
100pt scores from Wine Advocate of
any winemaker. He puts his name on
2 bottlings: Chris Ringland Shiraz
which retails around $500 and Ringland
Ebenezer Shiraz. Ebenezer
Vineyard is Chris Ringland's
favorite site and the wine certainly
speaks to it. Previous vintage was a
Parker 93.
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October
14th, 2009...New
Press
New Press
FoxGlove 2007 Zinfandel
Paso Robles ($15.99):
We've More news for
this line from Varner -
for
FOOD & WINE's "Best
wines $20 and under"
list, they chose the
Foxglove for their
Zinfandel pick. Bob and
Jim Varner of Varner
Wine know what's right
with Zinfandel (big
flavors) and what's
all-too-often wrong with
it (alcohol overload).
By sourcing grapes for
this second label from
Central California's
Paso Robles region and
adding in 14 percent
Petite Sirah, they have
made a tangy red with
classic wild berry fruit
and a satisfying touch
of jamminess."
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October
12th, 2009...New
Press
New Beers
 Brooklyn
Black Chocolate Stout
($8.99/4pk):
We've been
anxiously waiting for
the seasonal release,
especially on a day
like this - overcast and
cool - and look for
something inviting and
comforting. Super rich,
dark, and smooth - the
Brooklyn Black Stout is
just the ticket.
RateBeer 1706 reviews
with a 4.01/5 rating,
and BeerAdvocate "A-"
with 1441 reviews.
10.0% ABV.
While we're on the stout
train, the
Bear Republic Big Bear Black
Stout ($5.99/22oz)
has arrived: "Big
Bear, as the name implies,
is a hefty, black, Russian
Imperial-style stout. This
bold stout boasts a rich,
caramel sweetness lavished
by a robust, deep-roasted
heartiness you can sink your
teeth into. ...Big Bear's
bold flavors are produced
using a blend of Belgian and
English roasted barley and
crystal malts. Some unique
flavors come forth in the
malt character. ...Louisiana
sweet molasses and dark
brown sugar. This dark brew
is well hopped with Chinook
and Cascade hops, which are
somewhat, masked by the
malt. This is a balanced
bold brew boasting an A.V.B.
of 8.1% that can creep up on
you, "so don't get mauled"
 Terrapin
Midight Project Brew Two
2009 "Depth Charge"
($9.25/22oz):
The
second in the Midnight
Project series. "Be wary of
the calm
before the storm.. This
creamy, deeply delicious
milk stout will seduce you
into submission while the
explosion of hand roasted
gourmet espresso will blow
you into next week. 8.1%
ABV." Brewed with a blend of
espresso roasted coffee
beans made just for this
project by Jittery Joe's
Coffee, Athens, GA.
And if coffee's not your
thing, how about some Chai
Tea?
Dogfish Head "Sahtea"
($12.99/750ml):
"If
you read the great Dogfish
profile in The New Yorker
last
fall, this is the beer we
test-batched while the
writer was visiting. This
beer is a modern update on a
9th century Finnish
proto-beer. Brewed with
rye, we caramelize the wort
with white hot river rocks,
then we ferment it with a
German Weizen yeast. In
addition to juniper berries
foraged directly from the
Finnish country-side we
added a sort of tea made
with black tea, cardamom,
cinnamon, ginger, cloves,
and black pepper. The
spicing is subtle and
balanced and Sahtea is a
highly-quaffable,
truly-unique brew with a
full-mouth feel. 9% ABV."
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October
2nd, 2009...New
Press
Thursday Notes
Wine Enthusiast
just released their Top
100 "Bets Buys" for
2009. Here are some
highlights...
KungFu Girl
2008 Riesling (Columbia
Valley):
This
2008 is the third
vintage for this
extraordinarily popular
Riesling, again showing
bright, vivid, punchy
citrus fruit and juicy
acids. Residual sugar is
about 1.5% and once
again it is sourced from
the Evergreen vineyard.
With production climbing
to 20,000 cases, this
should be easy to find
at least until fall.
89 points.
Condes de Albarei
2008 Salneval Albariño
(Rías Baixas):
The"value"
label from Condes de
Albarei is always a good
bet. Oceanic aromas and
a spritz of lime make
the nose just right, and
the lively palate of
lemon, melon and banana
is charged up. Tight on
the finish, with citrus
and almond skins, and
then a lasting
impression of pineapple.
Young and raring to go.
88 points.
Saint-Hilaire
2005 Brut (Blanquette de
Limoux):
A pretty and remarkably
drinkable sparkler with
soft green apple,
tangerine oil and faint
yellow floral notes
accented with hints of
lavender. There's medium
carbonation and weight
in the mouth, and pear
and apple flavors abound
with suggestions of
honeydew in the finish.
Drink now.
89 points.
A to Z Wineworks
2008 Pinot Gris (Oregon):
A to Z puts out a lot of
Pinot Gris-more than
32,000 cases of this
2008-but the quality is
consistently fine.
Lovely spices wrap
around fresh citrus and
pear, then move into a
smooth midpalate that
lingers gracefully
through a clean and very
refreshing finish.
89 points.
Woop Woop
2007 Shiraz (South
Eastern Australia):
Not simply a jammy
mouthful of fruity
richness, the 2007 Woop
Woop shows enough
structure to ably
partner food rather than
replace it. Notes of
raspberries, roasted
coffee and vanilla are
slightly confected, but
the firmness on the
finish proves this is
not a cocktail wine.
Burgers, anyone?
89 points.
INBOUND
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September
26th, 2009...New
Arrivals
New Arrival
ALAIN JAUME 2007 Lirac "Clos
de Sixte" - SALE!! $21.99
(was $25.99):
"A
brilliant effort, the 2007
Lirac Clos de Sixte is
composed of 50% Grenache and
the rest Syrah with some
Mourvèdre. It is a rich,
full-bodied, dense
purple-colored Lirac
offering sweet blueberry and
blackberry fruit as well as
hints of smoky oak, pepper,
and herbs. Should evolve
nicely for 5-7 years.
92 points."
- Robert Parker, Wine
Advocate
THORN-CLARKE 2008 Shiraz "Shotfire"
Barossa ($17.99)
- It's new!! It's improved
(so I'm told)!! The latest
and greatest Shotfire is in
the House!! We'll open this
next Friday (10/2), along
with the following
vintages: 2007, 2005, and
2003. And maybe another if
I can find one...Shotfire
Ratings History
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September
23rd, 2009...New
Press
New Press
Robert Parker's "Wine of the
Day" Sept 23rd
MONTES 2006 Syrah Chile
Apalta Vineyard "Alpha"
($21.99)
"The 2006 Alpha Syrah Apalta
Vineyard is purple colored
with an enticing nose of
game, espresso, earth, and
blueberry. This leads to an
elegantly-styled Syrah with
spicy blue and black fruit
flavors, good depth, and a
fruit-filled finish.. Enjoy
it over the next 4-6 years.
91 points..
Under the enlightened
leadership of Aurelio
Montes, the Montes winery
remains one of the
standard-bearers for Chilean
wines. The Carmenere-based
Purple Angel is one of the
two or three best of its
type; the Folly is arguably
Chile's finest Syrah, and
the Montes Alpha M one of
the Cabernet-based icons."
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September
22nd, 2009...New
Arrivals
New Arrival
Château de Ségriès
2008 Tavel Rosé
($14.99) -
"A brilliant, big-boned,
brawny, dry rosé with plenty
of flavor. It cuts a savory,
heady feel across the
palate. Enjoy it over the
next 8-12 months.
90 points."
- Wine Advocate
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September
20th, 2009...New
Arrivals
 ZILLIKEN
2006 Riesling Kabinett
Saarburger Rausch SALE!!! $19.99
was $25.99 Save $6)
The Zilliken 2006
Saarburger Rausch Riesling Kabinett
offers crisp, juicy apple fruit,
with hints of mango and grapefruit.
Smoky and wet stone notes, combined
with a palpable extract-rich palate
lend this a serious, even slightly
austere palate presence today. But
the finish pours forth fresh fruit
and salts along with crushed stone,
leaving long and invigorating
traces. Here is a concentrated
Kabinett to put away for 5-7 years,
and then enjoy for that long again.
90 points."
- Wine Advocate
"A light-weight, lively style,
showing lemon-lime, apricot and
slate notes. Ripe, yet tightly
wound, with a bracing finish. Needs
time to show all its facets. Best
from 2009 through 2022. 600 cases
imported. 88 points."
- Wine
Spectator
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End
of Vintage - STUHLMULLER 2007 Chardonnay Anderson Valley ($26.99)
- "Stuhlmuller's 2007 Chardonnay (5,600 cases) is a beauty. Lemon oil,
honeysuckle, white currant, white peach, and poached pear characteristics are
present in this beauty along with terrific freshness, medium to full body, a
layered mouthfeel, and a long, pure, dry finish. Drink this knock-out Chardonnay
over the next 2-3 years. 92 points." - Wine
Advocate
"Tangy lime and citrus notes join riper green apple and honeydew melon in this
supple, full-bodied, complex and elegant offering. The finish is long and clean.
Drink now through 2011. 5,600 cases made. 91 points - Smart Buy!"
- Wine Spectator
September
10th, 2009...New
Arrivals
"These are absolutely
spectacular bargains from the
very high-quality Varner Winery
in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
This is their less expensive
line-up of wines, and I
encourage readers to try them -
they are true winners." -
Robert Parker, Jr., Wine
Advocate
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FOXGLOVE
2008 Chardonnay Central Coast ($15.99) - "The sensational 2008
Chardonnay Central Coast, which is fermented and aged completely in stainless
steel with no malolactic fermentation, is a 30,000-cuvee of fabulous Chardonnay.
Loads of tropical fruit, honeysuckle, and orange blossom notes fill the
olfactory sense, as does the luscious medium-bodied texture on the palate. The
wine is buttressed by crisp underlying acidity, and the result is a fresh, naked
expression of Chardonnay that is top-flight. Drink it over the next year or so.
91 points."
FOXGLOVE
2007 Zinfandel Paso Robles ($15.99) - "The outstanding 2007
Zinfandel (86% Zinfandel and 14% Petite Sirah) is another winner and phenomenal
bargain. This is classic Zinfandel with loads of berry fruit, pepper, earth, and
roasted Provencal herbs. The wine is pure, full-bodied, ripe, with not a hard
edge to be found. Drink it over the next 2-3 years. 90 points."
FOXGLOVE
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles ($15.99) - "Foxglove also
scores highly with their 10,800-case cuvee of 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon. A blend
of all-Paso Robles fruit and composed of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest
Petiti Verdot and Cabernet Franc, the wine has a dense ruby/purple color and
plenty of black fruit intermixed with loamy soil undertones, licorice, and
spice. The wine is luscious and. medium to full-bodied , with silky tannins and
a heady, opulent finish. Drink it over the next 2-4 years, although it could
last a lot longer. 89 points."
September
4th, 2009...New
Arrivals
BODEGAS
Y VIÑEDOS SHAYA 2008 Verdejo Rueda Old Vines ($14.99) - This new
project is a joint venture between Jorge Ordonez, Enrique Busto and the Gil
family of Jumilla, from fruit sourced from very old low yielding vines whose
average age is between 75 and 112 years old. "Quite rich, but still graceful,
this white shows melon, orange blossom, green almond and lime zest flavors in a
thick texture. Vibrant acidity keeps this lively. Drink now through 2010. 5,500
cases made. 89 points." - Wine Spectator
RABBIT RIDGE 2007 Paso Robles "Allure de
Robles"
($8.99) - "The 2007 growing season was fantastic for Rhone
varietals in Paso Robles and experts say it was the best Rhone varietal growing
season in the history of France. Allure de Robles is an estate grown wine that
is produced in Côtes du Rhône style. This wine is primarily a blend of
Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. The clones of the grapes are predominantly from
Tablas Creek Winery and Vineyard Nursery, meaning they are cuttings from both
the Château Beaucastel in the famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape region of France and
French Entav budwood. The vineyard is still young so it is producing a wine
similar in style to a Cotes du Rhone but one which should age well for several
years. This wine is medium bodied with strawberry and cherry overtones from the
Grenache, body from the Syrah and earthiness from the Mourvèdre. Bottled on
April 27, 2009. 6,131 cases produced." - Winery Notes. [Caveat - no one would
expect a CdPape for $9, but the depth and even complexity if this wine gives it
a big QPR (quality/price ratio) score, and a whopping 15.4% abv.] Enjoy with
BBQ ribs, Kung Pao chicken, or Nathan's Own and baked beans.
September
3rd, 2009...New
Arrivals
J.K Carriere 2007 Pinot Noir Willamette Valley "Provocateur" (SALE!!
$27.99 was $31.99) - "The 2007 Pinot Noir Provocateur is a blend of
all the single vineyards that Prosser purchases. Darker colored than is typical
in 2007, it offers up expressive cherry and black raspberry aromas leading to an
elegant wine with enough structure to evolve for 1-2 years. With excellent grip
and concentration and a lengthy finish, this is a 2007 Pinot Noir
that over-delivers for its modest price. 90 points."
- Wine Advocate
August
21st, 2009...New
Arrivals
PAZO
SEÑORANS 2008 Albariño Rias Baixas Spain ($24.99) - "The 2008
Albarino is sourced from the oldest vines in Rias Baixas, fermented in tank and
aged on its lees with batonnage. Light gold-colored, it delivers an attractive
nose of mineral, white peach, and lemon zest. Smooth textured on the palate,
tropical flavors emerge along with lively acidity. Pazo de Señorans is usually
a candidate for Albarino of the year made by anyone other than Raul Perez. 91
points." - Wine Advocate
OWEN ROE 2006 "Murphy's Law" Columbia
Valley
Red Wine ($15.99) - "A ridiculous blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc,
Malbec, Sangiovese from some of the region's top sites. An inky-dark hue.
Vibrant nose of plum, cherry and cassis. The palate is filled with plums and
grilled meats with hint of smoke and black mission fig. The sturdy tannins along
with classic Washington state acidity stretch into the long and elegant finish.
"Supple, silky, and generous with its olive-inflected cherry and blackberry
flavors, billowing in the easy breeze of a long finish. 90 points - Smart Buy!"
- Wine Spectator
CLOS
LA COUTALE 2007 Cahors ($16.99) - Just received 90 points and a
"SMART BUY" from Spectator. "There's a good sense of elegance to the
well-defined, concentrated flavors of dark cherry, blackberry and plum, followed
by notes of sage, dark chocolate and tobacco leaf on the long, powerful finish."
Malbec with some Merlot - old school, authentic stuff. Cahors is seeing some
resurgence with its "Black Wine" lately with the heightened interest in Malbec
and reinvestment in this old French region. This is where Malbec was born, true
to its roots.
August
21st, 2009...New
Arrivals
Benegas
2005 "Don Tiburcio" Red Wine Mendoza ($12.99) - "Bright ruby.
Smoky dark berries, black cherry, plum, violet and chocolate on the nose. Suave
and vinous, with harmonious acidity giving definition and grip to the sweet dark
berry flavors. Structured and mouthcoating. A very clever blend, and a great
value. 89 points." Tanzer's International Wine Cellar.
Michel Roland consults here, and frankly, this wine is better than the 89
rating.
"The
purple-colored 2005 Don Tiburcio Malbec contains 16% Cabernet Franc and 12%
Cabernet Sauvignon aged for 10 months in French oak. It reveals aromas of cedar,
clove, cinnamon, and black cherry. Elegant, medium-bodied, and layered on the
palate, it has plenty of savory, spicy fruit, 2-3 years of aging potential, and
excellent length. Drink this tasty effort over the next 8 years. 90
points. MSRP $21!"
- Jay Miller
for The Wine Advocate
July
17th, 2009...New
Arrivals
 Killer
deal on Willamette Valley Pinot Noir -
Panther Creek NV Pinot Noir only $23.99!!
NV?? Sounds like the economy is catching up
with even the untouchable Willamette Valley.
Back stock blending into a super deal.
"Panther Creek made 1750 cases of a Non-Vintage
Pinot Noir which is 50% from the 2007 vintage
and 50% from the 2008 vintage. Medium
ruby-colored, it has an alluring nose of
cinnamon, clove, cherry, and raspberry. On the
palate it has plenty of lively sweet fruit, good
acidity, and enough structure to ensure a 5-year
lifespan. It is a super value in Pinot Noir.
89 points." - Jay Miller for
The Wine Advocate
Albet i Noya 2008 Xarel-lo Classic
Penedes Spain($13.99): Xarel-lo is
one of the main grapes in Spain's sparkling
wine, Cava (like Chardonnay in Champagne).
Organically grown, fiesty, zippy, summer
pleaser.
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MISC:
(Trading exchanges for Euro/USDollar
(left) and Australian dollar/USDollar (right) for the last two years.)
=======================================================================================================================================================
Our Charities...
Rockbridge Area
Free Clinic
Rockbridge
Hospice
Boxerwood Gardens
WMRA Public Radio
Rockbridge Area Conservation
Council
Lylburn Downing Middle School
Waddell Elementary School
Effinger Elementary School
Project Horizon
Rockbridge Food Co-op
Hull's Drive-In
Montessori Center for Children
Yellow Brick Road Pre-School
United Way of Lexington-Rockbridge County
Visa - MasterCard - American Express - Discover
A BRIEF HISTORY
My
name is Charles Smith. Back in July of 1996, a good friend and I decided to open Washington Street
Purveyors to provide Lexington, Rockbridge County and the surrounding area
here in Southwest Virginia a source for a better selection of wines, gourmet
foods, microbrews and imports, and cigars. That's my wife and daughter in
the photo. We
personally evaluate nearly every product before we decide to carry it,
whether its a new wine import or a local hot sauce. Sometimes, we
even go right to the source, meeting the winemaker, walking the vineyard,
or the peanut grower and roaster. The results are subtle but effective.
Learning more about our products from these suppliers allows you, the consumer,
to make an informed decision about what to purchase.
We
know that there are about a million other e-tailers out there. We prefer
a different approach, a passive one. If you've stumbled upon this
site, please take a few moments to browse. Enjoy your visit.
If you see something you like and have some questions or a special request,
please give us a call. If nothing gets your attention this time around,
visit again sometime soon. Inventory changes as the seasons;
new wine releases, new food products, etc. Or leave your e-mail address
to receive periodic updates.
We
hope you come away knowing a little more about something. If not,
please forward a message to the fact.
An explanation - our local phone number, 464-9463,
spells GO-4-WINE. However, GO4WINE.com is already registered.
And seeing as Washington Street Purveyors is
based in Virginia, the "fer" fits, but "goferwine" seems odd,
so we went with
GOPHERWINE.COM
(no affiliation with Universityof Minnesota).
