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BIG RED IS IN THE SLED
DECEMBER 2023
THE BEACH WHISPERING ANGEL VIN DE PROVENCE ROSE – FRANCE
The Beach Whispering Angel Rose 2022 is an exquisite wine with a clear and expressive aroma that boasts a refreshing blend of red berries, hints of lime, and melon. The palate offers a subtle and smooth experience that balances acidity and minerality, culminating in a delicious citrus and red fruit flavor. The finish is light and long, with a fresh and round peachy citrus flare that leaves you wanting more. Whispering Angel Rosé is made from Grenache, Cinsault and Rolle (Vermentino) grapes.
Le bombarde CANNONAU di sadegna – cantina santa maria la palma - Italy
Accounting for 20% of the island’s wine production, Cannonau is the undisputed star grape of Sardegna. It’s the local name for Garnacha (Grenache), and the fact that a popular Spanish grape has such a strong regional hold as opposed to an Italian varietal speaks to Spain’s historic and cultural influence here.
Cannonau offers aromas of fresh red fruits such as pomegranate, raspberry and red cherry, complemented by herbal notes of eucalyptus and thyme. With oak-aging, Cannonau gains flavours of dried fruit, raspberry preserve, spices, tar, leather and smoke.
Sometimes spelled Cannonao, it is the Sardinian name for the widely planted red wine grape variety known in Spain as Garnacha and in France as Grenache.
BAROSA VALLEY ESTATE SHIRAZ 2019 – AUSTRALIA
Barossa Valley Estate 2019 Shiraz is a full bodied juicy, concentrated Shiraz with dark cherry, plum, anise, truffle, leather and pepper spice flavours. Barossa Valley Estate wines are a contemporary expression of the wines that made the Barossa Valley great. They capture the distinctive elegance, finesse and vibrant fruit flavors of one of the world's most celebrated wine regions. Small in size, the Barossa Valley is regarded as one of the most significant red wine regions on earth. With alluring exotic spice and vibrant fruit flavors of red plum and fresh blackberry.
CLOS de los SIETE 2019 red blend – Mendoza Argentina
This Melbec Blend shows aromas of ripe blackberries and blueberries, vanilla, licorice, dark chocolate, nutshell and sweet tobacco. Medium-to full-bodied with fine, polished tannins and a sleek, silky texture. Juicy, with delicious fruit on the palate and notes of walnuts and chocolate to close. Firm, flavorful finish.
50% Melbec, 24% Merlot, 11% Syrah, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot
RABBLE ZINFANDEL – PASO ROBLES, CA
Rabble Zinfandel 2020 (750 ml): Produced in Paso Robles, California, Rabble Zinfandel is a bold and fruit-driven red wine. The wine bursts with aromas of ripe blackberries, cherries, and a hint of spice. On the palate, it delivers a jammy and luscious experience, with flavors of dark fruits, vanilla, and a touch of black pepper, ending with a smooth and satisfying finish. This Zinfandel is a great choice for those who enjoy intense and fruity red wines.
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THE GREAT PACIFIC NORTHWESTWINES
NOVEMBER 2023
NINE HATS PINOT GRIS 2020 COLUMBIA VALLEY, WASHINGTON STATE
Sourced from Headquarters Vineyard in the Yakima Valley, where a constant breeze moderates temperatures to capture fresh flavors and give the wine its vibrant mouthfeel. A light squeeze of the grapes on the press and a cool fermentation is used to enhance the Pinot Gris’ racy character. This medium-bodied Pinot Gris offers vibrant aromas and flavors of white peach, orange blossom, honeysuckle and ripe citrus that lead to a pleasantly crisp finish.
Pinot Gris, Pinot Grigio or Grauburgunder is a white wine grape variety of the species Vitis vinifera. The grapes can have a brownish pink to black and even white appearance. The word pinot could have been given to it because the grapes grow in small pinecone-shaped clusters. The wines produced from this grape also vary in color from a deep golden yellow to copper and even a light shade of pink, and it is one of the more popular grapes for skin-contact wine.
There is no difference between Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio. “Grigio” is the Italian word for “grey”, while “gris” is the French translation. So the two are localized names for the same varietal.
STAFFORED HILL HOLLORAN 2022 SAUVIGNON BLANC – WILLAMETTE VALLEY OREGON
Le Pavillon Vineyard, ANA Vineyard, La Chenaie Vineyard, Meute de Chiens Estate Vineyard (Pack of Dogs)
The wine presents with deep golden tones, and pineapple and citrus are generous on the nose, with a hint of white pepper. On the palate deep flavors of blood orange transition to citrus/lime notes. The finish shows grilled lemon, and is lifted by generous acidity as it extends. May also get grass, gooseberry, grapefruit, lime, melon, citrus, mineral and flint.
REMAMBER: “IT’S WILLAMETTE, DAMN IT”!!
Sauvignon Blanc grapes originated in France, where they are still widely grown today and treated to a wide range of processing practices from aging in oak barrels, blending with other varietals, and undergoing malolactic fermentation to encourage a more mellow, buttery finish. These green skinned white wine grapes are highly versatile, and are now grown in several countries around the world which have the correct climatic conditions for getting the best results from them. Generally, Sauvignon Blanc varietal grapes prefer a cooler climate, as too much heat dulls the flavor present in the fruit. As such, they are generally grown in valleys and on coastal areas, where they can benefit from cooling breezes before being typically harvested early in the summer. The grapes themselves produce wines which are often very dry and crisp, yet full of a wide range of flavors including grasses, tropical fruits and citrus notes.
A to z wineworks 2021 pinot noir WILAMETTE VALLEY, oregon
Ageing in Oak helps produce a beautiful deep, garnet red color in the glass, the 2019 A to Z Wineworks Oregon Pinot Noir presents dark cherry and red berry aromatics with hints of pomegranate, rhubarb, baking spices, cola and cedar. These are lifted by warm secondary notes of vanilla, leather, sandalwood, a hint of toast and a subtle, deeper earthy layer of forest floor and mushrooms. Succulent flavors on the palate: juicy, ripe red fruit and black plum, brambly blue fruits, fig compote, cocoa, and a dash of pipe tobacco and graphite. The smooth texture, mouth-watering acidity, and well-integrated tannins leave a silky finish.
THE pundit 2019 syrah Columbia valley, Washington state
A collaboration between Chateau St Michelle and the Rhones Michel Gassier (Legendary Wine maker from The Rhone Valley), the wine is deep ruby in color with garnet highlights. Aromas of blackberry and currants mingle with dark earthy undertones along with bramble, moss, eucalyptus and tobacco. A decadent mouthfeel with flavors of cherry, blueberry, and dark chocolate is complimented by a long, juicy, complex finish. 97% syrah, 2% mourvedre and 1% viognie.
Aged for 14 months both in barrels, and in 500 and 600L puncheons; 23% in new French oak, 10% New American Oak and 67% neutral oak. • 25% of the lots were fermented with whole clusters, with the remaining lots fermented as de-stemmed grapes. The wine is then placed in neutral French and American oak barrels.
Destemmed fruit yields more fruit driven/fruit focused wines, whereas whole-cluster fruit yields wines with a more of a spicy, savory focus.
Barrels are deemed to be “neutral”, or imparting no flavor/aroma, after three years, as long as they have held wine in them most of that time. Once neutral, the ability of the barrel to impart oak flavorings is minimal.
CHATEAU STE MICHELLE INDIAN WELLS 2020 CABERNET SAUVIGNON COLUMBIA VALLEY, WASHINGTON STATE
Founded in 1934, Chateau Ste. Michelle pioneered vinifera grape growing in Washington state and has been producing class European varietal wines under the Chateau Ste. Michelle label since 1967. Nearly half of the fruit (46%) was sourced from our Cold Creek Vineyard, one of Washington’s oldest and warmest sites. • 16% of the fruit was sourced from Wahluke Slope, a region known for rich, ripe reds. 15% of the fruit came from Horse Heaven Hills vineyards. • Fruit from Red Mountain, Snipes Mountain and Yakima Valley also contributed to the blend.
This Cabernet Sauvignon showcases a lush texture and concentrated flavors of blackberry and black cherry. Blend: 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Syrah
ALL WINES AVAILABLE AT JIM’S BOTTLE WORKS
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WINES OF SPAIN
OCTOBER 2023
Rioja wines
Highly regarded for distinctive and age-worthy red wines, Rioja is Spain’s most celebrated wine region. Made up of three different sub-regions of varying elevation: Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Oriental. Wines are typically a blend of fruit from all three, although specific sub-region (zonas), village (municipios) and vineyard (viñedo singular) wines can now be labeled. Rioja Alta, at the highest elevation, is considered to be the source of the brightest, most elegant fruit, while grapes from the warmer and drier Rioja Oriental produce wines with deep color and higher alcohol, which can add great body and richness to a blend.
Fresh and fruity Rioja wines labeled, Joven, (meaning young) see minimal aging before release, but more serious Rioja wines undergo multiple years in oak. Crianza and Reserva styles are aged for one year in oak, and Gran Reserva at least two, but in practice this maturation period is often quite a bit longer—up to about fifteen years.
Tempranillo provides the backbone of Rioja red wines, adding complex notes of red and black fruit, leather, toast and tobacco, while Garnacha supplies body. In smaller percentages, Graciano and Mazuelo (Carignan) often serve as “seasoning” with additional flavors and aromas. These same varieties are responsible for flavorful dry rosés.
White wines, typically balancing freshness with complexity, are made mostly from crisp, fresh Viura. Some whites are blends of Viura with aromatic Malvasia, and then barrel fermented and aged to make a more ample, richer style of white.
MARQUES de caceresa dry ros’e 2020
In 1970, Enrique Forner founded Marqués de Cáceres Unión Vitivinícola S.A., a historic alliance of growers in the village of Cenicero in the Rioja Alta subregion of Rioja. The enterprising Forner family has been devoted to the wine trade for five generations. Their search for the best vine growers and vineyards in Rioja and the introduction of a Bordeaux concept revolutionized the production and business model of the region. They work with one single objective: producing the highest quality wines. Today this obsession continues to be the leitmotif of Cristina Forner, the fifth generation of this distinguished wine family.
Pretty, luminous pale coral pink color. Floral bouquet of small red berry fruits and a slight touch of aniseed. Luscious flavors on tasting with refreshing acidity and balanced structure. An elegant rosé with character and good length. Blend: 96% Tempranillo, 4% Garnacha
Coto de imaz rioja blanco reserva
There exists a small, white mutation of Tempranillo called Tempranillo Blanco. Authorized for use in White Rioj. Tempranillo Blanco has a similar growing cycle to red Tempranillo and even faces the same growing challenges. Unlike its red counterpart, Tempranillo Blanco wines are noted for their tropical fruit flavors.
Made from the Chardonnay grape that is aged in American oak resulting in a rich and lush taste of dried tropical fruit and subtle vanilla that are evident in this intriquing white Rioja. This has a sustained richness that isn't overdone, but is absolutely compelling. If you close your eyes, you'd think this was White Burgundy.
BARDOS – ROMANTICA CRIANZA 2020
Cherry red tones, very alive. 100% Tempranillo producing great depth of color. The wine has a very fresh nose, which perfectly conveys the character of the highland vineyards of the Páramo de Corcos. Enormous complexity, with spicy notes from the barrel and background fruit. Very pleasant on the palate with an enveloping, velvety tannin, very well matured. Acidity integrates with the density and sweetness creating a perfect balance. Again the finish denotes highly complex dark fruit, vanilla, smoke leather,earth and spices.
TRES PICOS BORSao 100% Garnacha 2016
Very intense cherry red color with tones of purple. Great concentration of aromas of ripe red fruit with floral nuances on the nose. In the mouth, it is a well-structured rich wine that evokes tastes of blackberry, plum and tones of leather and vanilla, with soft and silky tannin.
Mountain vineyards with an age of 35 to 60 years situated at an altitude of 600-700 meters, on stony, slimy soils with clay and limestone.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: The minty and balsamic 2016 Tres Picos Garnacha is difficult to identify as Garnacha. It matured in new French oak barrels for five months, which gives it a roasted and smoky character. It's very intense and might overpower food. It has abundant tannins and a dusty texture. A very oaky red in the end-of-the-1990s style
Coto de imaz gran reserve 2016 rioja
Blend: 90% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano***. Brilliant ruby color, with russet tones. Mature and elegant, its aromatic richness is changing and subtle, becoming more apparent as the wine breathes. Notes of toast and coconut followed by tertiary aromas (leather, wet earth), and red fruit and dried fruit. Round, silky tannins, persistent and complex aftertaste.
This is an immensely satisfying mouthful of wine with sweet vanilla oak, black/red cherry fruit, cassis and blackberry scents. The palate has polished black fruit appeal, sleek oak layering, sandy-grained tannins and a pulsating refined finish. A magnificent wine that will doubtlessly develop slowly and surely.
*** Graciano is a Spanish red wine grape that is grown primarily in Rioja. The vine produces a low yield that are normally harvested in late October. The wine produced is characterized by its deep red color, strong aroma and ability to age well. Graciano thrives in warm, arid climates. Ideal accompaniment for roast suckling lamb, game, or red meat.
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WINES OF SOUTH AFRICA
SEPTEMBER 2023
THE WOLF TRAP – WHITE BLEND 2021
western cape south africa
VIOGNIER 39% - CHENIN BLANC 38% - GRENACHE BLANC 23%
A White wine from Franschhoek, Coastal Region, Western Cape, South Africa.
The Wolftrap range of wines are a tribute to the pioneers who in the early days ventured into the Cape wilderness and erected a wolf trap on Boekenhoutskloof. To date, no wolf either real or mystical, has been seen in the valley. The Wolftrap White Wine is an intriguing blend of Viognier (Spice), Chenin Blanc(Melon) and Grenache Blanc grapes (White Peach).
The Viognier brings a rich, ripe fruitiness on the nose with its alluring peach melba aromas. Chenin Blanc offers acidity for balance and freshness, with layered fruitiness on the mid-palate. Grenache Blanc is always used in the blend for its gentle yellow plum and slightly zesty character and elegance. The nose is lively and inviting, with attractive aromas of yellow apple, ripe lemons, greengage and lemon verbena and gentle whiffs of clove, nutmeg and ginger creating complexity. The slight spicy notes and citrus character of the nose follow through onto the palate with flavours of Cape gooseberry, white peach, fresh pineapple, and a hint of lemon curd. The mid-palate is smooth, round and fleshy, although also very focused. The wine is medium to full-bodied, with integrated acidity and the subtle touch of oak adding to its great balance. Lemongrass and angelica linger on a fresh finish. Judicious French oak aging delivers depth and richness. Mouthwatering palate with a lingering finish.
KARA TARA CHARDONNAY 2022 WESTERN CAPE SOUTH AFRICA
Kara-Tara is a joint-venture between Rudger van Wyk (2018 Diners Club Young Winemaker of the Year) and José Conde of Stark-Condé Wines.
The name Kara-Tara refers to a small town near Knysna, where winemaker Rudger van Wyk grew up. Translated from the traditional Khoisan, it means “deep dark shadows” and refers to the Karatara river that runs through the town.
The grapes are sourced from selected premium vineyards in the Western Cape. This wine has the classic notes of lemon & grapefruit you’d expect from Chardonnay, with hints of almond & a fine, mineral finish. Poised between citrus and stone fruit flavors, with subtle toast and wet stone with multiple mentions of French oak.
KARA TARA PINOT NOIR 2020 WESTERN CAPE SOUTH AFRICA
This is the third vintage of Pinot Noir from Rüdger van Wyk, using fruit from Cape Town, Elgin and the Overberg. Sweet, perfumed and easy on the palate, it’s a graceful red with subtle whole bunch notes, good acidic balance and a core of cinnamon and summer pudding fruit.
An elegant, lightly-wooded style of Pinot Noir (12 Month showing classic strawberry and red cherry notes coupled with a hint of spice. A firm, yet silky-smooth tannin-structure supports the lovely bright fruit characteristics of the wine. A firm, yet silky-smooth tannin-structure supports the lovely bright fruit characteristics of the wine.
M-A-N FAMILY WINES PINOTAGE (pee-NO TAAZ)
CAPE COAST SOUTH AFRICA
Pinotage is a grape crossing of Cinsaut and Pinot Noir. It was first crossed in South Africa in 1925 in the gardens of scientist Abraham Perold. Perold observed how Pinot Noir struggled in South Africa's climate, so he crossed them with a very productive species: Cinsaut (called Hermitage). Cinsaut (san-so) vines have been grown for centuries in southern France, making it one of the oldest grape varieties found in the region. It is one of the permitted minor grape varieties in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape blend and widely used for the production of rosé wine in Provence.
Most of the grapes are dry-farmed, meaning that they’re grown without irrigation. With dry farming, root systems grow deeper in search of water and nutrients. As soil contact is increased, the vines produce grapes with intense flavour. We strive to make wines that are sustainably grown, true to varietal, well-balanced and of a consistently high quality.
A clean, modern-style Pinotage with enticing aromas of mocha, chocolate and roasted coffee beans, coupled with well-integrated flavours of berries, nutmeg and vanilla spice on the palate. Bush-vine vineyards contribute to exceptionally flavourful grapes.
M-A-N FAMILY WINES syrah
CAPE COAST SOUTH AFRICA
Sourced from bush-vine and trellised vineyards in the Agter-Paarl region in Western Cape, South Africa. The terroir is Mostly Malmesbury Shale soils. Malmesbury Shale has good water retention and the high clay content imparts minerality and fresh acidity to the wines.
Vinification: Fermentation took place over 5 days in stainless steel tanks with regular pump-overs. Before the end of fermentation, the grapes were pressed and put back into tank for malolactic fermentation. Fined and filtered before bottling.
Maturation & Oaking: 100% of the wine was matured in older American oak barrels. Barrel maturation of 12 months overall.
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KEEPING IT LIGHT
AUGUST 2023
Martín Códax Albariño – SPAIN 2021
Martín Códax Albariño is a white wine from the D.O Rías Baixas produced by the winery Martín Códax. This wine is a monovarietal of the grape Albariño. The harvest is realized following traditional methods and produced by a rigorous and careful process to guaranty the purity of the wines from Salnés. The fermentation process is performed in stainless steel containers at a controlled temperature. Martín Códax Albariño is bottled and sold without any ageing process.
Smokier than a crisp Sauvignon Blanc and more saline than a Chardonnay, this Albariño is deeply layered and textured. On the nose, expect aromas of nectarine, lime, and grapefruit, with subtle hints of honeysuckle and occasionally beeswax. The crisp finish makes it a perfect wine to pair with seafood.
Alvarinho or Albariño is a variety of white wine grape grown in Northwest Portugal and Galicia where it is also used to make varietal white wines. In Portugal it is known as Alvarinho, and sometimes as Cainho Branco, Albariño is the Galician name for the grape.
AROADBENT VINHO VERDE – PORTUGAL
The most popular white wine from Portugal, is a deliciously refressing, light wine. "Verde", meaning "Green" refers to the hints of lime color. It is an ideal warm weather wine, excellent for lunch and picnics, or an evening apertif. It makes a brilliant pairing with any fish, shellfish and poultry. Blend: 50% Loureiro, 40% Trajadura, 10% Pedernã
Blend: 50% Loureiro, 40% Trajadura, 10% Artino Pedernã
Loureiro is a light-skinned variety grown mainly in the north of Portugal and used to make the popular white Vinho Verde wines of the Minho region. The name Loureiro means "laurel", and refers to the distinctive aroma of the berries, although it has also been dubbed "Dourada" ("golden") for the color of its berries. Dated back to the 18th century, this is a “High-Cropping” grape that needs to be controlled in order to create depth of flavor.
Treixadura or Trajadura is white Portuguese wine grape variety grown primarily in the Vinho Verde wine region of northeast Portugal and the Galician wine regions of Ribeiro and Rías Baixas in Spain where the variety is known as Treixadura. The grape is primarily a blending variety that adds body and light lemony aromatics to wines.
Arinto - Pederna a blending grape grown in Portugal covers the citrus fruit spectrum, led primarily by lemon and grapefruit. It can also show various stonefruit characteristics and can take on rich peach flavors when aged.
PAUL BUISSEE TOURAINE SAUVIGNON BLANC– FRANCE
APPELATION D’ ORINGNE PROTEGEE
This vineyard is at Pouillé, not far from Montrichard, on clay-limestone hillsides. 100% Sauvignon Blanc the wine exhibits aromas and flavors of dried peach, candied apple, and citrus. Enjoy its dry yet soft touch with grilled apples mixed with bay shrimps and fresh garden greens.
** Clay /Limestone offers beneficial nutrients to grapes that make them grow better and produce sweeter grapes. It’s special because it retains moisture in dry weather, but also offers good drainage in cool weather.
J. lohr wildflower valdiguie (vaul da gee a)2021
ARROYO SECO, MONTEREY
A little-known French grape that has found its perfect New World home among Monterey’s coastal lupines and poppies. Served slightly chilled, it displays fresh raspberry, cranberry, and pomegranate aromas, with a bit of black pepper and hibiscus. Flavors of brambly, bright red berry with a touch of spice, mid-palate acidity, and a juicy, mouth-watering finish.
THE NAUGHTY WINE THAT GOT IT’S HAND SLAPPED !!
***Valdiguié is a red wine grape grown primarily in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of southern France, where it is generally known by the alias Gros Auxerrois. In California it has been known as Napa Gamay or Gamay 15. Until 1980 Napa Gamay was believed to be the Gamay of Beaujolais,[1] but following genetic analysis the name "Napa Gamay" has been banned from U.S. wine labels since January 1999.[2] Confusingly, both the Pinot noir clone Gamay Beaujolais and Valdiguié were sometimes also labelled as "Gamay Beaujolais" until that name was banned on labels in April 2007. BOTTOM LINE: Regardless of where the grape is grown or how similar it may be, a wine CAN NOT be called Beaujolais unless it is actually from the Beaujolais region!
Luke the companion red blend 2019 – Columbia valley
This is a blend of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 17% Syrah aged in a mix of French and American oak (about 10% new). With fruit coming from across the Wahluke Slope, aromas of violet, green herb, coffee, rose, raspberry and black cherry are followed by plump flower and plum flavors that show a lot of layering. There's plenty of juicy structure behind it all.
The Wahluke Slope: Established in 2006, The Wahluke Slop was named after a Native American word for "Watering Place," and is an American Viticultural Area (AVA) located within Grant County, Washington and is home to more than 20 vineyards and at least three wine production facilities. It is part of the larger Columbia Valley AVA.
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CALIFORNIA DREAMING - MAY 20123
KLINKER BRICK ALARINO 2021 LODI, CALIFORNIA (1)
Strikingly floral aromas with hints of lychee burst from the glass. A mid palate richness and mouthwatering acidity enhance flavors of white stone fruit, fleshy peach and spring melon flavors. The finish is clean with notes of lemon pith. Mango, pineapple yogurt, and a fresh linen lotion scent at the end on the nose. The body is round and juicy with a silky and long finish with a note of dried mango. Superb summer seafood wine.
MER SOLEIL CHARDONNAY 2020 – SANTA LUCIA HIGHLANDS MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA (2)
A soft golden color, this wine features bright scents of lemon crumb bars and honeydew, with a hint of apricot, toasted oak, and the evocative trace of a freshly struck match. Entry on the palate is round and robust, lending a richness to the fruit. At the same time, a zing of acidity hints the sides of the tongue, maintaining the liveliness of citrus and melon. This dance of vibrancy and intensity carries over to the finish, as honeydew and apricot trail off in silky smoothness. The Mer Soleil Chardonnay offers a satisfying palate experience. This wine exhibits aromas and flavors of earthy notes, creamy nuances, ripe apples, and oak. Pair it with grilled chicken in a savory sauce.
Perhaps the most highly regarded appellation within Monterey County, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA benefits from a combination of warm morning sunshine and brisk afternoon breezes, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and fully. The result is concentrated, flavorful wines that retain their natural acidity. The climatic conditions here are perfectly suited to the production of ripe, rich Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. These Burgundian varieties dominate an overwhelming percentage of plantings, though growers have also found success with Syrah, Riesling and Pinot Gris.
CAMBRIA PINOT NOIR JULIA’S VINYARD SANTA MARIA, CALIFORNIA (3)
Sustainably crafted from a single-vineyard, Julia’s Vineyard Pinot Noir exemplifies the meaning of Santa Maria spice— aka the balance of earth, red fruit, and crushed seashells combined with the cool, coastal elegance that is a signature of the region and our proprietor Julia Jackson. With notes of red fruit, cranberry, wild cherry, and brilliant pomegranate, Cambria's flagship red wine is perfect to sip on or to savor, no matter the season.
THE STAG 2020 CABERNET SAUVIGNON PASO ROBLES, CALIFORNIA (4)
The St. Huberts The Stag Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine that shows a deep ruby, garnet, crimson color, with perfumed aromas of inviting bramble berry, wild raspberry, dark cherry, and red currant, alongside baking spice notes of allspice, cedar, tobacco leaf, sage, blueberry, dark plum, black olives, mocha, mineral, eucalyptus and clove.
Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most popular and widely planted red wine grapes in the world. It is known for its deep color, full body, and complex aromas and flavors.
Also called Bouchet, Bouche, Petit-Bouchet, Petit-Cabernet, Petit-Vidure, Vidure, Sauvignon Rouge
PHANTOM RED BLEND (5)
Bogle Vineyards, established in 1979 in Clarksburg, Ca approximately 27 minutes from Sacramento.
How do you pronounce Bogle winery?
Pronouncing Bogle wine is surprisingly hotly debated, but it actually turns out to be pretty simple. It's pronounced BOW, like "bow and arrow," + GULL like "seagull."
Bogle Phanton red Blend is 56% Petite Sirah and 44% Zinfandel producing the taste of wild berries and black pepper are framed by the influence of oak aging (American Oak 22 Months) with baking spices and a hint of toasty vanilla.
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THE ANSWER IS BLOWING IN THE WIND - MARCH 20123
KEN FORRESTER SAUVIGNON BLANC – SOUTH AFRICA (THE CAPE DOCTOR)
The Doctor works his magic by blowing away smog and impurities, clearing the skies and making way for some fresh sea air. Because it can play havoc with the vines at flowering, it is often cited as a negative factor for winemakers.
This wine shows lovely complexity with mix of tangy grassy notes, fig leaf, peach and nectarine nuances. Brisk acidity with minerality on the palate which is typical of the long hang time in our cool region Ideal with fish, chicken, pasta and CWS friends.
The refreshing Sauvignon Blanc grape is perfectly at home in South Africa. The diverse growing regions make for wines that can be nice and grassy with plenty of grapefruit and green apple skins.
ABOUT THE VINEYARD
It is our vision to improve the lot of our employees by growing our business and thereby providing maximum job opportunities in a market that is desperate for support. We go a step further, we farm sustainably with no herbicides or pesticides, we till by hand, hugely labour intensive, but very satisfying, we prune, thin bunches and leaves all by hand and finally we harvest by hand. This additional employment we hope goes some way to improving the quality of life in our community and we know that if every community looked after their own, no-one would go wanting.
RODNEY STRONG CHALK HILL CHARDONNAY (PETALUMA GAP)
Chalk Hill, Sonoma, CA- This estate produced wine comes from vineyards first planted by Rodney Strong in 1965. Marked by an abundance of tropical fruit. Broad and smoky, this is an unabashedly rich chardonnay, driven by the textural fullness of its alcohol, lasting on notes of mineral salts, along with pineapple and lime. Lemon pie and custard aromas mix with exotic quince and layers of creamy oak in our 2019 Chalk Hill Chardonnay. Bright green apple and a citrusy lemon kick balance out the smooth oak tones. The creamy mouthfeel leads to a bright finish of grapefruit zest and hints of tart apple.
ANGEL’S INK CENTRAL COAST PINOT NOIR (PETALUMA GAP)
Produced by The Wente Family Estates, Angel’s Ink has dense aromas of boysenberry pie, cola spice and loamy soil show on the nose of this bottling. The palate is rich and borderline sweet in berry flavors, through the mace and cola spices add some balance. Angels Ink Pinot Noir is rich, round and supple in texture. Fruit-forward with an integrated oak presence, the wine delights the palate with notes of dark and red berries and a vanilla-backed juiciness.
VILLA POZZI NERO d’AVOLA – SICALLY (THE SIROCCO)
Nero d'Avola (Italian pronunciation: [ˈneːro ˈdaːvola]; 'Black of Avola' in Italian) is "the most important red wine grape in Sicily" and is one of Italy's most important indigenous varieties.
Also known as Calabrese is the most important and widely planted red wine grape variety in Sicily. Vast volumes of Nero d'Avola are produced on the island every year, and have been for centuries. A strong, full-bodied, fruity wine that takes on notes of black cherry, prune, black plum, and licorice. It often exudes an herbal and cherry aroma that matches its fruity nature. Younger d'Avola's typically have a juicy plum taste with bursts of fruit and bold, lingering tannins.
DOMAINE HAUTE de BUISSON COTES-du-RHONE – RHONE (MISTRAL)
Haut de Buisson is made by a cooperative using sustainable farming by the young winemaker Martin Grellety. The parcels of Haut de Buisson are located in the village of Saint Hilaired’Ozilhan. Nearby stands the Pont Du Gard aqueduct, the most beautiful Roman construction in the region, classed by UNESCO as World Heritage Site.
30% Syrah & 70 % Grenache: With a lovely shimmering ruby, the mouth is fruity (red fruits, soft spices) and has great finesse. This wine will be the idea accompaniment for mountain cured meats, barbecues and cheeses.
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WINE AND CHOCOLATE
February 2023
THE WHOLE SHEBANG 13th CUVEE, CALIFORNIA RED
Sherman & Hooker Shebang is a project by Morgan Twain-Peterson MW, the son of Ravenswood founder Joel Peterson. Sherman & Hooker is named after the two Civil War generals who founded Bedrock Vineyard in 1854. It is a blend of declassified Syrah, Petite Syrah, and Zinfandel. A full-bodied wine is packed with robust, dark-berry flavors and spiced lightly with French oak.
BOGLE OLD VINE ESSENTIAL RED 2019, CALIFORNIA
Strong toasted oak aromas and flavors get good backup from deep, dark blackberry jam and cocoa in this full-bodied, moderately tannic wine. It's showy and robust but pulls off decent balance. A rich, juicy mouthfeel takes over, expressive with flavors of blueberry and blackberry. After aging in American oak for 12 months, the wine finishes with round, plush and succulent flavors of baked cobbler.This versatile wine pairs well with a variety of foods like the Essential barbecue burger, Pt. Reyes Blue Cheese and Dark Chocolate Macarons.
TOWER ROAD J. LOHR PETITE SIRAH, PASO ROBLES 2018
Bright and energetic with aromas of cranberry, olallieberry**, and coconut shell. Delightful with tart red and blue fruit on the palate, followed by exquisite length, concentration, and an interesting floral character. 93% Petite Sirah, 3% Syrah, 3% Grenache. 1% Viognier
**The Olallieberry has the physical characteristics of the classic blackberry, but it is genetically about two-thirds blackberry and one-third red raspberry.
VINTAGE:Thanks to a couple of late winter storms, the 2018 growing season will be remembered as the fourth in a string of normal rainfall years in Paso Robles, with over 70% of this season’s rainfall being accumulated in a 3-week period in March. A nice stretch of warm weather in May assured a good bloom and fruit set, followed by an unprecedented 46-day heat spell beginning in early July. This had the effect of extending the growing season for Petite Sirah into November for the first time in our history, as vines shuttered and slowed phothosynthesis from the high temperatures. We included small amounts of Syrah and Grenache in the Tower Road blend, as in previous vintages. This 2018 vintage is our first use of the traditional Northern Rhône technique of including Viognier in the blend, which brings a nice complexity to the finish of this wine.
BANFI ROAS REGALE, SPARKLING RED - PIEDMONT, ITALY
A delicate bouquet of rose petals and offers sensuous flavors of fresh raspberries and strawberries. Its effervescence is softer than that of champagne, yet it yields a persistent and delicate pink froth.
Brachetto d’Acqui DOCG (Piedmont region of Italy). Aromas of fresh crushed strawberries and a hint of rose petals. Remarkably well-balanced sweetness, refreshing acidity and just 7% alcohol – decadent on its own or indulgent when paired with chocolate desserts.
Little known fact: Brachetto d’Acqui dates back to the times of Cleopatra. Legend has it that both Julius Caesar and Marc Antony presented Cleopatra with several wine skins filled with this luscious elixir, knowing it would be love at first sip. The empress then had her lovers drink the wine in order to unleash their passion, and the rest is history.
DOWS FINE TAWNY PORT, PORTUGAL
(Right Up Front: This is an entry level Port !!)
PORT, a strong, sweet, typically dark red fortified wine, originally from Portugal, typically drunk as a dessert wine:
Dow’s Fine Tawny is a three-year-old blend aged in small oak casks at our lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia. The barrel ageing produces a smoother and lighter style of wine than the Dow’s Ruby which is aged primarily in large oak vats and tonels (Spanish term for barrel).
Simple, plummy, peppery, fruitcake aromas and flavors, medium body and sweetness and fruity finish, of course pairs excellently with CHOCOLATE!
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Wines of Israel
December 2022
Israel, like many long thin countries, has a surprising number of microclimates. It is possible to ski in the morning on Mount Hermon in the north, and in the afternoon to go scuba diving to see the Coral Reef in the Red Sea resort of Eilat. Likewise, it is possible to be in the Central Mountains at 1,000 meters altitude, and a short time afterward to fall away to the Judean Desert, where the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth at 400 meters below sea level, is situated. One can visit the hot, humid Sea of Galilee, where you will be surrounded by date palms and banana trees. Climb ten minutes onto the Golan Heights and cool climate produce like apples, pears and wine grapes are grown. It is a country of variety, extremes, but all on a small scale. Israel would comfortably fit into New Jersey.
REGISTERED REGIONS
The official wine regions of Israel are Galilee, Shomron, Samson, Judean Hills and the Negev.
Galilee – Upper Galilee, Lower Galilee, Golan Heights
Shomron – Northern Coastal Plain, Mt. Carmel, Menashe Hills, Shomron Hills
Samson – Central Coastal Plain, Judean Foothills
Judean Hills – The hills to the west, north & south of Jerusalem
Negev – The Negev Highlands.
These regions were decided long before the Israel wine industry took its current shape. There are proposals to change and update these to fit in with the realities of today.
GALILEE:
The Galilee, Galil in Hebrew, is situated in the north of Israel. The Upper Galilee is a mountainous area of forests, plunging peaks and stony ridges. It is Israel’s most beautiful vineyard region. The soils are heavy, but well drained. They tend to be a mixture of volcanic, gravel and terra rossa soils. The vineyards near the northern border with Lebanon are 350 to 450 meters above sea level. The vineyards near Mount Meron, range from 650 to 1,000 meters above sea level. Most of the vineyards in the Upper Galilee were planted only since the mid to late 1990’s. The annual precipitation in the Upper Galilee is from 800-1,000 mm. Winter temperatures can be from 0-15 0C whilst in the summer the range is from 12-30 0C.
Wineries in the Upper Galilee: Dalton, Capsouto, Covenant Israel, Kishor, Lueria, Or Haganuz.
The area of vineyards in the Lower Galilee are situated near Mount Tabor. Here elevations are 200 to 400 meters. Soils vary between volcanic and limestone. Precipitation ranges from 400 – 500 mm a year.
Terra rossa (Italian for "Red Soil") is a well-drained, reddish, clayey to silty soil with neutral pH conditions and is typical of the Mediterranean region.
CANNAAN WHITE BY DALTON
White Canaan is a blend of a few varieties including Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Semillon, Viognier and a little Muscat. The grapes for this wine were picked in the early hours during the month of September from the vineyards of the Upper and Western Galilee and were immediately processed and chilled at the winery. The juice was cool fermented in stainless steel tanks leaving some residual sugar. Following fermentation, the wines were blended to make the White Canaan.
HERMON WHITE – GALILEE
Mineral driven and flinty, this white blend exhibits citrus fruits, honeysuckle, melon and peach, layered with hints of tropical fruits (pineapple, papaya and spice).
A blend of Savignon Blanc, Semillon, Viognier, Chardonnay.
HERMON RED– GALILEE
Produced in Galilee, Israel. Made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and a hint of Cabernet Franc. Aromatic aromas of red and black fruits, layered with hints of fresh herbs, earth and cocoa. Tastes of red fruit notes (cherry, raspberry, red fruit).
ELA GALIL – GALILEE
Aged in French oak for one year, Galil Mountain Ela is an elegant red blend with notes of sour cherry and red raspberry. A well-balanced wine that serves great with lamb and herbs, pasta with red sauce, barbecued chicken and even pan-seared steak. A great aging potential between 3-5 years. A blend of 53% Syrah and 47% Barbera.
GALIL ALON – GALILEE
A rare red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc. Deep violet-red to the eye, this wine has aromas of cherry, blackberry and black pepper. Flavors of black cherry, raspberry.
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NOVEMBER 2022
IN THE BLENDER – REVISITED
(THE ORIGINAL “IN THE BLENDER” TASTING – MARCH 2016)
THE CURATOR WHITE BLEND 2019 – SOUTH AFRICA
Light bodied South African white that works as an aperitif or with a seafood or veggie dinner. The blend of 80% Chenin Blanc, 20% Viognier, 20% Chardonnay creates a zesty, herbally nose. The palate is lemon curd, kiwi and green apple with an herbal, grassy and mineral finish.
California- Apothic White
California- Apothic White is an approachable blend that combines Chardonnay, Riesling and Moscato to create a luscious, vibrant wine in the bold style of Apothic. Intense flavors of peach, pineapple, honey and vanilla spice.
Ca’ Momi Napa Valley Rosso (California)
Ca’ Momi [Kah-Moh-Mee] (Translation: “House of Momi” in Italian)
A freestyle blend of Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and Petite Sirah produces aromas of ripe blueberries, smoke and blackberries. Structured flavors of boysenberry, plum and dark cherry with hints of toasted nuts and brown spice. Six months of aging in French and American oak produces a wine with intricate layers of complexity and supple tannins creating well-integrated flavors and an elegant finish.
Fiction Field Recordings Red (Paso Robles, California)
This red is a quirky “kitchen sink” blend of grapes: 21% zinfandel, 15% sangiovese, 13% petite sirah, 12% syrah, 8% alicante bouschet, 7% charbono, 7% grenache, 7% cabernet franc, 5% cabernet sauvignon, and 5% corvina! The wine is a full-bodied, fruit-forward expression of the Paso Robles region. The fruit is decidedly black/blue in profile, while the tannins are firm yet well-integrated. Luxurious notes of blueberries, blackberries, smoked meat, and spice mingle with hints of licorice and menthol.
** Cherry, Plum, and Fig are typical Charbono (Bonarda in Argentina) flavors, with hints of Spices, Gravel, and Smoke.
Alicante Bouschet or Alicante Henri Bouschet is a wine grape variety that has been widely cultivated since 1866. It is a cross of Petit Bouschet (itself a cross of the very old variety Teinturier du Cher and Aramon) and Grenache.
Aramon or Aramon noir is a variety of red wine grape grown primarily in Languedoc-Roussillon in southern France. Alicante is a teinturier, a grape with red flesh.
What is a Teinturier Grape? A teinturier grape is a red wine grape with dark skins and flesh. In contrast, regular red wine grapes have dark skins, but clear flesh.
Leco Punk Organic Red (Rioja, northern Spain)
Leco Punk reflects their ideals through minimalistic organic viticulture to express the full blast, naked varietal flavours of the indigenous grapes from Rioja. Leco Punk Organic Rioja is 100% Tempranillo from high altitude (Cool) vineyards in Rioja Alta and Rioja Orientali. Fresh and medium-bodied with a nose of pomegranate a touch of green bell pepper. It is soft in the mouth and a little tart on the palate, with flavors of cranberry, pomegranate, sage and iodine. It ends on a salty finish.
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A VISIT TO FRANCE
OCTOBER 2022
Chateau de sancerre - 2020
Sancerre is a French wine Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) for wine produced in a style similar to Beaujolais, which is produced from the Gamay grape.
The history of the Sancerre vineyards goes back almost a thousand years, for it was in 11th and 12th centuries that monks in the surrounding districts began to cultivate vines. From the reign of Philippe-Augustus to the reign of Louis XVI, the Kings of France delighted in Sancerre wine - "one of the most exquisite of the Kingdom", as one described it - and a 19th century devoté, Honoré de Balzac, famously paid tribute to the "generous wines" of Sancerre.
The Chateau de Sancerre stands in the heart of the Sancerre vineyards. In 1874, the castle was rebuilt on its old site in the style of Louis XII. In 1919 it was purchased, along with part of the vineyards, by Louis Alexandre Marnier-Lapostolle. It was he who restored the vaults and the spiral staircase which flanked the "Feudal Tower" - the only remaining vestige of the medieval castle. He also set up a private museum in Sancerre and was instrumental in building the reputation of Sancerre wines.
Today The Chateau de Sancerre is still owned by the Société des Produits Marnier-Lapostolle, also producers of Grand Marnier liqueurs and owners of the Chateau de Bourg Charente. It is here, in the heart of its historic birthplace, that an exclusive estate-bottled Sancerre wine is made and matured - the only wine which can be sold under the exclusive name Chateau de Sancerre.
The Sancerre appellation in France's Loire Valley is renowned for its crisp high-acid white wines made with sauvignon blanc. All white wines labeled Sancerre are produced from 100% sauvignon blanc, meaning that all Sancerre wines are sauvignon blanc.
The classic Sancerre wine is white, bracingly acidic, and has pungent aromas of gooseberries, grass, nettles, and a hint of stony minerality. Richer, riper examples – particularly those from warmer, west-facing sites with chalky soils – often show fruitier notes of passionfruit and lemon peel.
This 2020 is a limpid (free of anything that darkens; completely clear) yellow wine with gold reflections. On the nose, it is elegant with citrus notes and white flowers. On the palate, mineral with a nice freshness and acid structure and a long aromatic persistence.
Trennel Beaujolais blanc 2019
This wine has a beautiful golden color and a bouquet of aromas with white peach, apricot and hints of hawthorn. It is crisp but also presents a fullness and an astonishing amplitude. This wine is very pleasant, bright and mineral with a good length. Made from the Chardonnay grape.
What's the difference between a Beaujolais and a Beaujolais Village and Beaujolais Nouveau ?
Beaujolais Village is the appellation for red, white and rosé wines from a zone made up of 38 villages in the north of Beaujolais. The hilly terrain and granite soil here is considered superior to that of the flatter lands in the south of Beaujolais. Beaujolais Nouveau is a separate category of Beaujolais and Beaujolais Villages wines that are released shortly after harvest. The light, fruity style became popular in the 1970s and is designed to be consumed shortly after bottling.
Trennel Beaujolais cuvee rochebonne 2020
Made from Gamay (Gamay Noir) grape, this crisp and flamboyant wine has a beautiful ruby color. Its nose mingles the aromas of cherry, blueberry and raspberry. It is very fine and smooth on the palate and develops notes of licorice and pepper. Maceration of whole bunches is for 8 to 10 days with 5 months’ ageing in cement tanks. Unfined and lightly filtered before bottling.
Gamay Noir (“Gam-may” aka Gamay Noir) is a light-bodied red wine that's similar in taste to Pinot Noir. In fact, this variety is a cousin of Pinot Noir and it grows primarily next to Burgundy, France (Pinot motherland) in a region called Beaujolais. Noir, the name comes from the French word for “pine” (pinot), because the grapes grow in pine cone-shaped clusters, and “black” (noir), a reference to their dark hue.
The regional appellation “Beaujolais” was recognized in 1937 and is the most extensive of the region. It produces fresh and fruity wines, perfect for the first days of summer. Trénel’sBeaujolais Cuvée Rochebonneis produced on the east of the “PierresDorées” area, on three parcels east orientedand facing the Mont Blanc. They’re located in the village of Lucenay and are particularly ancient: the older one has been planted in 1922. The soil is very clayey and gives roundness and structure to the wine.
Pic & Chapoutier COTES DU RHONE 2020
The Rhône is one of the classic French wine regions. It starts in central France, just south of Lyon, stretching almost to the Mediterranean Sea. The region comprises many storied appellations (defined areas with legally mandated grapes and wine styles) that take their name from communes along the river.
A blending of Grenache and Syrah crimson-red aromas of red fruits (mainly morello cherries) and spices (liquorice, grey pepper) the tannins are firm and silky and the wine has a great structure.
The wine is aged in vats for approximately two weeks and is pumped over allowing the wine to be clarified. Pump-Over: also known as remontage, the process of pumping red wine up from the bottom of the tank and splashing it over the top of the fermenting must. The purpose is to submerge the skins so that carbon dioxide is pushed to the surface of the must and released. (MUST, Unfermented grapes).
Montagne saint/emilion chateau tour bel air 2019
In 1760, the Laporte family arrived in the village of Montagne-Saint-Emilion and started to work with a few hectares of vines, today they own 25.
Using traditional red Bordeaux vinification in temperature controlled concrete vats, both the alcoholic fermentation and the malolactic fermentation are carried out in the concrete before the wine is partially (25%) transferred to oak barrels for ageing for 12 to 14 months. Once the ageing is finished the final blend is assembled.
85% Merlot 10% Cab.Sauvignon 5% Cab.Franc, This wine is characterised by a full, fruity attack on first taste. When young (3 years or under) this develops into a full-bodied mouth that will benefit from decanting. If the wine is mature (3 years or older) it shows integrated tannins. The finish on this wine is very long and shows just a touch of oak. Can be cellared up to 10 years.
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SEPTEMBER 2022
A TRIP TO ARGENTIAN
Why is Argentine wine so good?Due to the high altitude and low humidity of the main wine producing regions, Argentine vineyards rarely face the problems of insects, fungi, molds and other grape diseases that affect vineyards in other countries. This allows cultivating with little or no pesticides, enabling even organic wines to be easily produced.
What wine is grown in Argentina?
The leading grape in Argentina in terms of reputation and quantity is Malbec, a Bordeaux variety imported to Argentina from France in the mid 19th century. Other red varieties produced in Argentina include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Bonarda (known as Charbono in its native Italy), Syrah, Tempranillo and Pinot Noir.
Arreyna Torrontes
A fresh and aromatic white wine from the remote northern Valle de Cafayate. Aromatic with a tight profile, elegant tension and beautiful citrus notes. Attractive golden color with green tones, which undoubtedly speaks of its perfect harvest timing. Citrus aromas of pink grapefruit and a floral mix. The mouth has a lovely level of acidity showcasing a modern, fresh and unique style of Torrontes.
Torrontés is similar to other aromatic white wines including Riesling and Muscat Blanc (Moscato). The major difference between Torrontés and these aforementioned white wines is that Torrontés is commonly made in a dry style. Think of this grape as Sauv Blanc's cool cousin from Argentina.
Sposato Reserva Chardonnay
Argentina / Mendoza / Lujan de Cuyo 100% Chardonnay. 13,7% ABV; initially strong but it softens up. Deep gold color. Acidity is balanced. Screw cap opener. 6% of the wine was aged in French oak of second and third usage; doesn’t specify for how long. Flavors; notes of pepper, minerals, apple and cream. Aromas; hints of vanilla and lime.
La Posta Bonarda Armando
Varietal Composition 100% Bonarda from Guaymallén - East Mendoza. High elevation of 2300 feet and planted in loamy clay soi;l with gravel subsoil.
Bonarda from Argentina is not the same wine as Italian Bonarda. Bonarda is a red wine grape that originated in Italy, but has become more popular in Argentina. It is important to note that Italian Bonarda is different than Argentine Bonarda. It usually is a dry red wine that has hints of black fruit.
Bonarda may refer to one of several grape varieties:
Douce noir, known as Bonarda in Argentina and Charbono in California
Bonarda Piemontese grown in Piedmont, around Turin
Croatina or Bonarda dell'Oltrepò Pavese, grown in Lombardy, around Pavia
Uva Rara or Bonarda Novarese, in Novara and Vercelli.
Argentina's Bonarda is actually a grape called Douce Noir (“doose nwar”)
. Douce noir (also known as Bonarda, Corbeau and Charbono) is a red Savoyard wine grape variety that has historically been grown in the Savoy region, but today is more widely planted in Argentina. The earliest mention of the grape dates from when Etruscans first planted Bonarda some 3.000 years ago in the Padana Region. The earliest mention of the grape dates from when Etruscans first planted Bonarda some 3.000 years ago in the Padana.
Cherry, Plum, and Fig are typical Charbono flavors, with hints of Spices, Gravel, and Smoke.
How does Bonarda differ from Malbec? Bonarda displays ample color in the glass just like Malbec, but it delivers lower tannins and slightly higher, more juicy-tasting acidity.
ANTIGA UNO MALBEC
The grapes of this wonderful wine come from Uco Valley - Tupungato, Gualtallary, and La Arboleda. Areas highly recognized for their excellent quality. The vineyards are located at 1100 meters above sea level, with a great thermal amplitude between day and night, which allows the development of aromatic elegance and concentration. The exceptionally gentle treatment of hand-selected Malbec grapes is made possible by the winery’s gravity-flow system, which eliminates the need for forceful pumps and pressers. The care taken through all stages of winemaking — from initial cluster-chilling through sorting, maceration, fermentation, and barrel aging — produced an unusually elegant Malbec with great balance and supple tannins. This Malbec is aged in wood for 8 to 10 months, has red and purple colors, typical of this variety. On the nose, this wine offers delicious plum, strawberry, and blackberry flavors with enticing hints of violets, vanilla, and milk chocolate. Brightened by carefully protected natural acidity, this violet-red wine has a silky texture and provides an agreeably persistent finish.
Casarena Estate Red
A blend of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon
Red and black fruit aromas like ripe plums and cherries, with mild spicy hints of black pepper and vanilla. In the mouth it is fresh and complex. It is an elegant wine with a persistent finish. It can perfectly accompany a variety of meats and cheeses. Its balance between spice and fruity character allows for flexibility to pair with meals like beef or stews.
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GETTING RE-ACQUAINTED
AUGUST 2022
Martín Códax Albariño - SPAIN
Martín Códax Albariño is a white wine from the D.O Rías Baixas produced by the winery Martín Códax. This wine is a monovarietal of the grape Albariño. The harvest is realized following traditional methods and produced by a rigorous and careful process to guaranty the purity of the wines from Salnés. The fermentation process is performed in stainless steel containers at a controlled temperature. Martín Códax Albariño is bottled and sold without any ageing process.
Smokier than a crisp Sauvignon Blanc and more saline than a Chardonnay, this Albariño is deeply layered and textured. The crisp finish makes it a perfect wine to pair with seafood.
Alvarinho or Albariño is a variety of white wine grape grown in Northwest Portugal and Galicia where it is also used to make varietal white wines. In Portugal it is known as Alvarinho, and sometimes as Cainho Branco, Albariño is the Galician name for the grape.
BABICH PINOT GRIS
MARLBORO REGION - NEW ZEALAND
A full-bodied Pinot Gris. Notes of pear, peach, and apricot with a hint of ginger and honey. Greatly paired with spicy foods. Medium in acidity, combines the best of the fruit-forward style of Alsace in France, with the crisp, dry Style of Italian Pinot Grigio.
What's the difference between a Pinot Gris and Grigio?
There are few lines more blurred than that between pinot gris and pinot grigio. The short explanation of their difference is that gris is based on the French Alsace style, riper and richer, with more alcohol and sometimes a little sweetness; grigio is based on the Italian model, lighter and simpler with less alcohol.
What’s surprising is that this grayish-purple grape is also a mutation of Pinot Noir. Pinot Gris is famous for its refreshing citrus flavor and zesty acidity.
The grape is originally from France, where it is cultivated in Alsace and called “pinot gris.” In Italy, it is grown in the Lombardy region and called “pinot grigio.” The two countries produce similar, but slightly different wines.
A TO Z PINOT NOIR - OREGON
The 2019 A to Z Oregon Pinot Noir is a ridiculously food-friendly, true Oregon wine with fruit, earth, and spice notes. The smooth texture, mouth-watering acidity, and well-integrated tannins leave a silky finish.
On the palate, the wine echoes the initial aromatics with juicy flavors of blue and red fruits and hints of secondary flavors like chocolate malt, dulce de leche.
Pinot Noir is a red-wine grape variety of the species Vitis vinifera. The name may also refer to wines created predominantly from pinot noir grapes. The name is derived from the French words for pine and black. The word pine alludes to the grape variety having tightly clustered, pinecone–shaped bunches of fruit.
DONA PAULA ESTATE (Black Edition Red) - ARGENTINA
Aromas of wild brush, black olive, rubber and wild blackberry comprise the nose. This Malbec-led blend feels lively and fresh, with blackberry, cassis and lightly toasted flavors. A steady finish offers no significant changes as it fades with ease.
60% Malbec, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot from Lujan de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina.
Argentina has a rich wine history, with the country producing an endless array of different wines such as Syrah, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Bonarda, and Malbec. Out of all of the wines that Argentina produces, it is perhaps best known for creating the best Malbecs in the entire world.
W &J Graham’s SIX GRAPES RESERVE PORTO – PORTUGAL
Six Grapes is one of Grahamâs original Port marques. It is a big-hearted (Ruby Style) wine, sourced from the same vineyards (essentially Quinta dos Malvedos and Quinta das Lages) that contribute to Graham’s famed Vintage Ports. Aged for two years in seasoned casks before being bottled, Six Grapes is a youthful, bright, and complex reserve port. Known for its finesse, Six Grapes is full-bodied and marked by its fresh aromas of blackberry, liquorice, cherry, plum and cassis.
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A Taste of Israel
November 2018
The 2016 Mount Hermon White (Galilee) Kosher
. The 2016 Mount Hermon White displays bright fruit aromas of green apple, tangerine, lime and guava, with notes of fresh flowers and a bit of grass. This medium-bodied wine is fresh, vital and drinkable.
Enjoyable upon release, the wine is best appreciated within a couple of years of harvest. Mount Hermon White pairs wonderfully with a plate of assorted sushi, a serving of crispy fish and chips, or grilled chicken breasts in a lime sauce. The 2016 Mount Hermon White is a blend of white varietal grapes (Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay) harvested from vineyards on the cool Golan Heights. Cold fermentation helps to maintain the natural vitality of its classic white varieties. We enjoy pairing the wine with fish tacos, chicken satay, or potato and shallot frittata.
The Galilee (or Galil) is the most northern, and generally considered the best, appellation in Israel. The highest quality area within the appellation is the Golan Heights (or simply the Golan), the coldest region in Israel. The vineyards on this volcanic plateau rise from 400 meters (1,300 feet) above sea level to 1,200 meters (3,900 feet) and receive snowfall in the winter. Golan Heights Winery is located in the town of Katzrin in the central Golan.
Recanati’s Yasmin White 2017 (Kosher)
Recanati’s Yasmin White is produced from a blend of two classic varieties, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. The winemaking method stresses the lightness of the wine and the fruity aroma together with its refreshing acidity. They achieve this fruity aroma thanks to a relatively slow fermentation at low temperatures. This preserves the gentility of the aromas and allows us to produce a light wine with balanced acidity. An aromatic wine, rich and refreshing with white fruits, melon and tropical fruit flavors.
The 2016 Mount Hermon Red (Galilee) Kosher
Yarden Mount Hermon was produced from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with a small amount of Cabernet Franc, all grown in the Golan Heights. The cool climate, rocky volcanic soil, and high altitude are ideal conditions for growing classic wine grape varieties. Moderately early pressing yields a wine with good color and ample fruit that can be enjoyed without extensive aging. To preserve the quality of the wine, this bottle should be stored on its side in a cool, dark place. Best served at 55-60 degrees F.
Musar Jeune Red 2012 (Bekaa Valley,Lebanon)
Musar Jeune Red is an unoaked blend of Cinsault, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon from youthful Bekaa Valley vines. Meant for current consumption – within a few years of the harvest – this deeply-colored, vividly fruity style, first produced in 2007, may yet prove to be a ‘keeper’. Inky-dark, silky-textured and aromatic, with blackcurrant, raspberry and cherry jam flavors and a warm, spicy finish, it has been likened to a fine Roussillon red.
The vines have been planted since 2000 at around 1,000m above sea level in the Bekaa Valley. Musar Jeune Red is fermented in cement-lined vats and bottled a year after harvest and released a year later. No need to decant; enjoy straight from the bottle at between 16-18°C with grills, roasts, casseroles, delicatessen meats and mature cheeses. This wine is suited for vegans as it is not fined nor filtered. To keep the wines showing at their best, bottles must be cellared in darkness, lying on their sides and not subjected to unnecessary movement or fluctuations in temperature.
Recanati 2014 Reserve Petite Sirah (Galilee) Kosher
There are, mainly, three places in the world that make Petite Sirah: California, Australia and Israel. An enticing nose of cherry pie and vanilla sets the stage for flavors of ripe cherry, blueberry, white chocolate and lilac. Grippy tannins hold their own against a strong vein of acidity, and the finish is notable for its light floral lift. RECANATI Reserve Petite Sirah, from vineyards in the Lower Galilee, is graciously subtle in washes of blueberry, rose, pomegranate and savory spices. Softness? This wine, as compared to American Petites, has room for cottony softness, creating a remarkable balance with the grape’s natural robust flavor profile. Grace? Smooth, facile and lengthy, nothing is forced and everything is balanced.
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October 2018
Falling Furuya
Featuring fall wines as recommended by Master Sommelier, Chuck Furuya
Les Hauts de Janeil Grenache-Sauvignon
The Grenache contributes an exotic expression of ripe apricot with a hint of spice that is complemented by the more citrus, crisp fruit flavors of the Sauvignon Blanc. Aromas of white flowers, peaches and citrus fruit lead to a well-balanced, complex palate with just the right amount of acidity that lingers on the finish in this food friendly, crowd-pleasing wine.
Âme du Vin Cotes de Provence Rosé
Âme du Vin, “Soul of Wine,” embodies the sun-drenched beauty of Cotes de Provence with distinctive elegance. Expressive notes of fresh apricot, citrus and jasmine flower delight the senses, yielding an exceptional rosé with balance and length. Enjoy Âme du Vin as an aperitif and with canapes, soft cheeses, white meats and fresh seafood. On another note- check out the glass cork- it’s amazing technology!
Domaine de Bois de Saint-Jean L’intrépide
This property makes Cotes du Rhone reminiscent of Cru wines costing much more. Big, bold, and assertive, this is one mouthful of wine! With 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 5% Cinsault, and 15% Mouvedre, this wine can easily be mistaken for a Chateauneuf-du-pape. Don’t miss this fantastic value from one of the hottest wineries in the Southern Rhone.
J. Lohr SouthRidge Syrah
The J. Lohr Estates South Ridge Syrah is grown on a combination of lime-laden and gravelly soils, which rein in Syrah’s rangy growth potential. Varietal aromas of blueberry and black tea are lifted by barrel aging on lees in a 60/40 blend American and French oak barrels. A touch of white pepper on the palate opens up slowly to reveal baking spice and pomegranate fruit on the finish.
Bogle Old Vine Zinfandel
For years, Bogle winemakers have sought out vines ranging in age from 60 to 80 years old for our Old Vine Zinfandel. These gnarly head-trained and dry farmed pioneers produce low yields of small, concentrated clusters of fruit, producing incredibly intense and flavorful wines. Intense, yet leaner than some in the category- this red is a perfect food compatible red to warm the soul on a chilly evening!
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Going On Safari
September 2018
Oak Lane Beau Joubert Chenin Blanc/Sauv Blanc 2016
This 70/30 blend of these two zesty varietals, made in a fruit driven style, offers crisp citrus and opulent tropical flavours with a slight green capsicum finish. Fresh acid and lively fruit make this light straw coloured wine an absolute favourite for all occasions. It is an excellent partner to any lighter style dish but is also the perfect wine to enjoy on its own. If cellared correctly this wine will maintain freshness and will be equally enjoyable.
Essay Chardonnay 2017
This refreshing style of Chardonnay from the western cape is made with a touch of oak for added complexity and richness. Melon, tropical fruit and citrus aromas, a rounded palate with butterscotch notes and prominent fruit flavours. A versatile wine that will complement virtually any food. Serve chilled.
Vineyards The grapes for our ESSAY wines come from dry-land, bush vine vineyards grown on shale soils that give them distinctive flavour and texture. The vineyards are situated in the Agter-Paarl area and create a Chardonnay characteristic of this region.
Fairview’s Goats Do Roam Red Blend 2017
The name is a play on "Côtes du Rhône" because this is a mix mainly of southern Rhône varieties, led by shiraz (or syrah), cinsault and grenache. Playful in branding, yes, but this is a serious bargain. Medium-bodied and uncommonly supple, with tangy plum assisted by spices and herbs. This particular selection is 58% Shiraz, 21% Grenache,5% Mourvedre, 4% Petite Sirah and 2% Carignan.
Nederburg “The Winemaster’s Pinotage 2016
A bounty of plums and prunes and some subtle oak spice.
Palate: A full mouthfeel with rich fruit flavours, soft tannins and well integrated oak with a hint of vanilla.
Serve with rich winter stews, roast duck, guinea fowl, quail, ostrich, game casserole, classic goulash, venison steak, smoked Kassler chops, pasta, pizza, roast leg of lamb, bobotie and even chocolate. The grapes were sourced from vineyards in and around the Western Cape. Planted between 1990 and 1998, the vines are grown in decomposed granite, Kroonstad and Swartland soils. Grafted onto nematode-resistant rootstocks, the vines receive supplementary irrigation from an overhead sprinkler system.
Tormentoso Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
The southern tip of South Africa has been dubbed the “Cape Of Storms”. The rocky soil of this coastal region is tough for growing grapes, but the torment from the region actually helps produce the velvet texture of this wine.
An inviting nose of sweet coconut, tobacco and Classic Cabernet cassis. These flavors follow through on the palate, backed by vanilla oak flavors from the barrel maturation. Juicy red wine gum flavors on the palate provide a lingering, lengthy finish. This full-bodied wine with its soft tannins pairs well with meaty dishes, strong cheese, pasta, grilled mushrooms and dark chocolate
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AUGUST 2018
KEEP THE SUMMER ROLLING
Matua Sauvignon Blanc
Refreshingly good! This is classic Marlborough Savvy, with bright aromatic herbal notes and a complete array of aromas the style is famous for. Think sage and fresh mint, followed by delicious tropical fruits. This year, the palate has vibrant citrus and pineapple flavors with great length and structure. This is a real doozie.
Castle Rock Rosé of Pinot Noir
This smells and tastes like a pale Pinot Noir and has some of the body and smooth texture of a red wine, too. Tasty cinnamon, nutmeg and red-cherry flavors get plenty of uplift from zingy acidity, so the balance is great and the finish lingers.
Eola Hills Chardonnay
Made with grapes from select Oregon vineyards, this Chardonnay was fermented and aged in oak for just eight months to enhance the fruit qualities without the wood hiding the flavor. Nice, soft tropical fruit flavors mingle with a hint of oak and finish is subtle and crisp, making this an enjoyable, medium-bodied wine.
Castle Rock Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
Ruby black color. Bright aromas of chocolate toffee, cherry-berry tart, and beets with a silky, crisp, dryish light-to-medium body and a seamless, rapid dusty sweet potato, cedar bark, nutskin, and parchment finish with dusty, woody tannins and moderate oak.
Domaine du Bois de Saint Jean L’intrepide
Tastes like a mini-Chateauneuf du Pape!" Opens with big aromas of dark frui plus notes of roasted raspberry, smoked meat and garrigue - wild thyme, lavender and olive. In the mouth it's remarkably dense and sweetly fruited for Cotes du Rhone, with more dark fruit, garrigue and spice flavors and a rich texture that borders on velvety. The finish is long and earthy and complex with supple tannins.
*****
CHILLIN OUT / WINES WITH A CHILL - MAY 2018
VERA VINHO VERDE
The essential hot weather white… Vera Vinho Verde is 100% estate fruit, estate bottled, low RS and a very light carbonation, allowing for a medium bodied and better balanced wine. The fact that fruit comes from the estate’s 104 plots (Yes 104) provides consistent quality from vintage to vintage. Vera Vinho Verde is one of the great offers from Portugal and from the region.
KING ESTATE PINOT GRIS
In the 2016 vintage, pineapple, nectarine, violets and lime zest collide with honeysuckle, cantaloupe and minerals. A flowing harmony of fresh acid and a delicate off sweetness carries the fruit and minerals thru a generous finish. Try with a fresh salad, or perfect for a poolside treat!
FERRARI CARANO SANGIOVESE ROSE
With aromas and flavors of fresh picked wild strawberries, raspberries, watermelon, rhubarb, pomegranate, lingonberries and a touch of blood orange, this refreshing and lively wine offers finesse balanced by mouthwatering acidity and an elegant finish. Served chilled, this wine’s light fruit characteristics make a natural choice for pairing with fresh seafood like salmon, crab or shrimp, and game such as duck, Cornish hens, lamb or turkey.
SOKOL BLOSSER EVOLUTION RED
For years fans of our Evolution Lucky No. 9 clamored for us to blend its red companion. And that’s putting it nicely! Did they forget the lessons taught in 8th grade science? Evolution takes time so when time was right, and a wine had evolved that stood apart from the cluster of existing red blends, we pounced. It was inevitable. Evolution hasn’t stopped since with a new look and a bolder taste. This blend is complex, big juicy and nothing short of exquisite with Sangiovese, Montepulciano, Syrah, and a splash of Evolution Lucky No. 9. It’s a friend to grilled meats, Italian red sauce dishes, pizza and even fine ratatouille. In a nut shell, Evolution Big Time Red continues the evolution of Evolution. Another giant step forward in wine.
HESS SELECT PINOT NOIR
Everybody has a favorite growing region in California for Pinot Noir. Our favorite focuses on the distinctive fruit that comes from Santa Lucia Highlands in Monterey. Earthy aromas tinged with white pepper set the stage for aromas and flavors of sour bing cherry, rhubarb and pomegranate. So why would this wine work well chilled? A slight layer of acidity offers a rutty backbone that handles the chill, and delivers the flavor and body. A great summertime treat!
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NAME CALLING - APRIL 2018
Villa Ste Croix Pinot Noir 2015 - France
Soil
Chalk with fragmentation of marl from Oligocene period. Vineyard situated in the Aude region near Limoux.
Vinification
Manual harvested with integral de-stemming. After a short cold maceration (5days at 10°C), thermo regulated fermentation at 25°C maximum. Slow extraction by unballasting and punching the cap. After a pneumatic pressure, fermentation in Stainless steel vat. Then 80% of the wine is maturing in tank and 20% is maturing in oak barrel for a minimum of 3 months.
Wine tasting notes
Bright red colour with blue reflection. The aromas evoke red fruits notes (wild strawberry) followed by menthol, grilled and smoke sensations. The mouth is well-balanced between acidity and structure. The finish is aromatic with fine tannins.
Northwest Ridge 8 Barrel Pinot Noir- Willamette Valley
The Vineyards: Domaine Loubejac, Hyland and Prince Hill,Harvest Date: 9/4-10/5/2015, Alcohol:13.5%, Days of Skin Contact: 12-16, Fermentation: Whole Cluster, Aging: 8 Months 100% French Oak Nose: Cranberry, black cherry, clove, leather, sweet vanilla oak.
Mouth: Medium body, supple tannins, juicy red and black fruits with a subtle oak finish.
French vs American Pinot Noir
• ELEGANCE. Drinking French Burgundy has been compared to sipping liquid silk. The best bottlings typically take years of cellaring before they’ll reveal all of their underlying aroma and flavor nuances. But a perfectly-aged Burgundy can be as blissful to drink as a summer sunset is to watch. California Pinot Noir is made in a bolder style, often with a bit more alcohol retained. So in this category, score one for Burgundy.
• RICHNESS. This refers to the “feeling” one experiences in the mouth as the wine is being consumed. The drinking experience often is described as unfolding in “layers” of flavors and textures, and a long, lingering finish is a must. Because Burgundy is more “shy,” particularly in its youth, and because California winemakers have adopted a more “in-your-face” style with the variety, we give the richness nod to California Pinot Noir.
• INDIVIDUALITY. What California vintners gain in richness, they lose in uniqueness. While there are subtle differences in aromas and flavors from region to region, there also is a certain sameness that occurs as a result of winemaking techniques and technology being so uniform in the state. Conversely, lovers of Burgundy will tell you that each bottling is unique because French vintners are focused on making “wines of a place,” and a “place” can be as small as a corner of a single vineyard. Individuality advantage: Burgundy.
• FRUITFULNESS. Here is perhaps the most noticeable stylistic difference between Burgundy and California Pinot Noir. Whereas Burgundy tends to offer a wide array of nuances — including a hefty dose of terroir — California Pinot Noir usually is all about the fruit.
Primitivo Di Manduria – 2014 – Puglia Region, Italy
Dark, mature fruit. Prune and black currant. Spice and toasted oak. Soft and smooth with good voluminous body and fruity finish. Deep ruby-red in colour. Full-bodied with intensive aromas of plum, black cherries as well as cocoa, completed by an exciting spicy finish including hints of cinnamon, clove and black pepper.
Angry Bunch Zinfandel, Lodi California -2014
Deep ruby color. Elegant notes of wild violet and rose blend with fresh blueberry, raspberry and concentrated bramble notes. Robust, concentrated fruit with a ripe texture and juicy mouthfeel blends with hints of spice,black cherry, raspberries and vanilla to create a powerful yet well-balanced palate. Bright acidity complements hearty tannins and provides for a lasting, complex finish. Pairs well with barbecue, grilled meats, zesty pasta, braised pork, and hearty cheeses.
Campus Oaks Old Vine Zinfandel, Lodi California – 2013
The color is deep royal red. The nose is redolent with rich cherry, red and black fruits. On the palate jammy raspberry, blackberry and cherry predominate. The finish is rich, and silky with soft spices all wrapped with a nice blanket of vanilla.
Zinfandel vs Old Vine Zinfandel
Old Vine Zinfandels tend to brighten the characteristics of the Zinfandel grape: producing a jammy and spicy wine. They’re “typically full-bodied, spicy, fruit-driven and accented by oak with robust alcohol. Old Vine Zinfandels can have a superior quality of taste because the older grapevines are, the less vigor they have, which means they produce fewer grapes. Fewer grapes equals more flavor. The appeal of Old Vine Zinfandel can be distilled down to smaller yields and more intensity of flavor.
So how old is old? There’s no regulatory definition of “old vine.” A winemaker can slap an old vine label on their bottles, even if their vines are only five years old and be breaking no laws. Conversely, a winemaker with 100-year-old vines doesn’t have to define her Zinfandel as old vine on the bottle.
“So a consumer may frequently be drinking wines from Old Vines without any indication or may enjoy a wine from a blend of younger and older vines,” Most/some consider 25-year-old vines old.
The History of Zinfandel
Zinfandel is predominantly grown in America, although it's now been discovered that the grape has European origins in Croatia. A very popular wine grape pre-Prohibition (as well as during Prohibition since it shipped well for home winemaking around the country), this grape came back into vogue in the 1970s when Sutter Home accidentally made their first batch of "White Zin", a slightly sweet blush version. This style is still ubiquitous but many finer red Zinfandels are celebrated today as well.
Qualities of the Zinfandel Grape
Zinfandel vines are prolific, and can produce a fair crop into ripe old age - from 30 to even more than 100 years! For better quality wines, vineyards should be managed to set a smaller crop by thinning bunches or planting in an area that will curb its productivity. Grape bunches are large with large berries and thin skins. Berries on the same cluster often don't ripen at the same rate, so you'll often see small green unripe berries, ripe berries and overripe raisins intermixed on the same bunch.
Zinfandel Wine Characteristics
Body: medium to heavy
Tannins: light to medium
Acidity: medium
Flavors: wild berries and plum with generous peppery notes - sometimes fruit flavors border on overripe with prune and raisin
Regions Where Zinfandel is Grown
- Throughout California in the U.S., with bulk wine production focused on the hot Central Valley, and finer versions from Sonoma and Napa, particularly old vine plantings in the Russian River Valley
- Italy's Puglia region
- Croatia's Dalmatian Coast
Zinfandel Fast Facts
- Bottled by varietal name in U.S.
- Bottled by local varietal name in Italy ('Primitivo')
- Bottled by local varietal name in Croatia ('Crljenak Kaštelanski')
- Famous Producers: Rosenblum Cellars, Cline, Ridge Vineyards
- Generally best drunk young for its vibrant fruity character, although some more exceptional wines can be aged 10 years or more
Zinfandel Wine & Food Pairing
- Delicious paired with full-flavored sauces such as marina or BBQ, as well as with grilled meats
- Easy Food and Wine pairings with Zinfandel:
Smoked Turkey Chili
*****
The Shirt Off My Back
March 2018
Chateau Beaulieu Rose 2016 - France
An exemplary, traditional Provencal rosé, Château Beaulieu Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence is bright and fruit-forward with exotic fruit that reminds of guava and papaya and white floral aromas on the nose. It has body and structure, yet is fresh on the palate and beautiful minerality. A versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a wide variety of seafood.
Netzl Unoaked Chardonnay 2016 - Austria
Abundance of juice and spice in the nose, yellow apples, melons and hey, nice acidity, fresh and animating. Serving Suggestion: light, grilled meat or with cream- or wine-sauce such as poultry, veal or fish, pastries and soufflés, dishes with asparagus. Ripe but fresh acidity enlivens its easy, juicy, textured midpalate. Its clean, sunny and fruity finish makes it a pleasure to sip.
Le Fervent 2014 Syrah – France
The term “fervent” is defined as “having intensity of spirit, feeling and enthusiasm,” an apt description of winemaker Michel Gassier’s passion for Syrah. Le Fervent is produced in Costières de Nîmes, the southern-most appellation of the Rhône Valley nestled on the shore of the Mediterranean, and is sourced from some of the coolest vineyard sites of the Southern Rhône, thanks to the strong maritime influence. This wine exhibits the freshness, elegance and mineraility that are often characteristic of Syrahs from the Northern Rhône, the birthplace of this most noble varietal.
Almost black with reddish hues. The nose is both complex and intense, of black plum, china ink, blood orange and hints of pencil lead. A very fresh and vibrant wine with flavors of blueberry, boysenberry liquor and garrigue, underlined by hints of toast and cocoa. It is framed by refined tannins and good acidity. 91% Syrah, 6% Grenache, 2% Mourvèdre, 3% Viognier (co-fermented with Syrah)
E A Cartuxa Red Blend 2015 – Portgugal
EA red is a blend of Trincadeira, Aragonez, Alicante Bouschet and Castelão planted in the Fundação Eugénio de Almeida vineyards. When grapes reach the right point of maturation they are carefully picked and brought to the winery where they are fermented in stainless steel vats at controlled temperature of 24-27ºC. Following fermentation the wine is filtered, stabilized and bottled for immediate consumption. Ruby colour. Slight aroma of red fruit, soft flavor and young. Typical of the main grape varieties of the Alentejo Region. This wine finely accompanies red meats, roast beef and grilled meats.
Breca Old Vine 100% Garnacha 2014 -Spain
Bright cherry color with a garnet edge. On the nose, initial ripe fruit mixes with spicy aromas and creamy, toasty, notes from complex oak. The lasting bouquet ends with chocolate and an earthy character. On the palate, this wine is powerful, rich, and toasty. Balanced acidity and ripe tannins linger on the finish.
GENERIC NOTES
Trincadeira Grape: Tinta Amarela or Trincadeira is a red wine grape that is commonly used in Port wine. The grape is noted for it’s dark coloring.
Aragonez Grape: Aragonez is simply a synonym for Tempranillo.
Alicante Bouschet or Alicante Henri Bouschet Grapes: is a wine grape variety that has been widely cultivated since 1866. It’s a cross between a Petit Bouschet and a Grenache. Bouschet is a dark juiced hybird Garnacha grape that creates dark color with spice notes and slight earthiness.
Castelao Grape: AKA Periquita and Joao de Santarem. A red grape found primarily in the south coastal regions but grown all Portugal. Like Trincadeira it is commonly used in the production of Port Wines.
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VINO AMORE
FEBRUARY 2018
San Pietro Pinot Grigio
100% Pinot Grigio. This white is made from a number of small vineyards (for a total of 17 hectares) standing in the Bassa Atesina area. The winemakers use soft pressing, static decanting, and fermentation in steel vats with temperature control. Maturation in steel for 7 months. Straw yellow in the glass with a nose of tropical fruits and hints of honey. The palate is fruity with excellent freshness and balanced acidity.
Carpineto Dogajolo Toscano White
The name Dogajolo was invented by Carpineto’s founders, derived from the Italian word doga, meaning “stave” — the narrow strips of wood used to form oak casks. A medium-bodied white with pleasant citrus aromas and flavors, Carpineto Dogajolo Bianco is a young, fresh wine with a balanced acidity and clean, delicate finish. Produced from estate-grown fruit from the Montepulciano estate, each varietal is vinified separately in stainless steel tanks.
Cantina Zaccagnini Montepulciano d’Abruzzo
The 500 acres of the estate of Ciccio Zaccagnini is located in Bolognano, alongside the Rome-Pescara highway, in theprovince of Pescara. It is situated approximately 30 milesfrom the coast and about 8 miles from the Maiella Mountainwhich rises 9,000 ft. The vineyards are located in the cru section called "Colle Morto di Bolognano.” Intense violet robe. Aromas of plum and ripe blackberry. Each sip delivers a mouthful of ripe berries, leather and black pepper with subtle hints of oregano, dried herbs and a touch of vanilla; all leading to a dry and supple finish.
Araldica Albera Barbara d’Asti
“This Barbera d’Asti Albera shows the sweet sensations of cherry liqueur and candied fruit that are common to this poplar grape from Northern Italy. The mouthfeel is mild and smooth, and the wine offers a bright trail of freshness and crispness. This is a food-friendly red wine with a lean and compact mouthfeel in this cooler vintage.”
Donna Laura Ali Toscana
Made up of equal parts of two clones of Sangiovese, F9 and CH-20, this wine spends one year in stainless steel tanks prior to bottling, and then is allowed to rest before shipping. The wine has aromas of juicy, red berry fruit. Medium bodied and soft on the palate, this red provides balanced acidity and ripe tannins. Delicious with pasta and grilled meats.
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