wine nation... in pursuit of better wine

the most romantic date...Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-12T20:52:00.010-05:00

Many theories exist as to why there's a Valentines Day, but I like this one; the Roman Emperor Claudius the II forbade young men to marry in 200 A.D. He believed single men made better soldiers, free of family concerns. A priest named Valentine disobeyed the Emperor and married couples in secret.

The modern celebration of Valentine's Day seems to have begun in France and England. On Valentines Eve young people would gather and pick names becoming a Valentine to whose ever name they chose.

Valentine's Day Checklist

1. One dozen red roses
2. Godiva chocolates
3. Diamond Jewelry
4. New Mercedes Benz

OR

* a few bottles of elegant and delicious wine
* a fire
* an embrace...
create a memory

wN's pop 12 list of 2010these are the wines most of you raved about and kept coming back for, again and again...

2011-02-12T20:43:00.005-05:00

1. Castelvero Cortese 2009 | 9.99

a break from the usual Pinot Grigio, this fresh and unique, lively dry white is from the Piedmont region of Italy in the north; made of all Cortese, which is the same grape used in Gavi. This is a gem, expect lots of lemon - lime citrus fruit and a very welcome fresh acidity.

2. The Pinot Project 2009 | 13.99

hand crafted from the finest California grapes showing pure aromas and flavors; black cherries kissed by oak and complimented by just the right amount of Asian spice. An extremely versatile wine with a host of your favorite dishes.

3. Summit Lake Zinfandel 2003 | sale 15.99

the vintage is full bodied with just the right amount of dusty Howell Mountain tannins. Seductive and penetrating with its fragrant aromas wound in black pepper, sweet oak, plums and currant. A Zinfandel that sparks with elegant flavors of dark fruit and blackberry.

4. Castello D'Albola Chianti Classico 2007 | sale 10.99

a find from Radda in Chianti in the Province of Siena where the cultivation of vines dates back to Etruscan times. A brilliant Tuscan red, fine and elegant with scents of ripe dark fruit and violets. Appealing with persistence; this is what Chianti should taste like - dark cherry and floral aromas with flavors that scream Sangiovese.

5. Flora Springs Trilogy 2006 | sale 34.99

this blend of Cabernet, Merlot with Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot is absolutely delicious. Its notes of cedar, black currant and sweet dark cherry make this is a heady glass of red with elegant texture, purity and length kept in focus with stunning balance.

6. Orsolina Barbera D' Asti Caminata 2008 | 12.99

this Italian was at more parties last year than Charlie Sheen. Ripe and dark fruit that hints at chocolate and spice. Incredibly silky tannins caress the palate from start to finish, this Barbera is all about understated finesse and there is no shortage of that here.

7. Orin Swift Saldo Zinfandel 2008 | sale 29.99

at 38, winemaker Dave Phinney is at the top of his craft. His hugely successful Orin Swift wines are at an almost cult stage and regardless of price, everyone wants them. A Zin that's rich and stylish with aromas of spicy blackberry with sexy layers of black cherry and licorice, pulsing with flavors of subtle vanilla and toasty oak.

8. Argante 2006 | sale 24.99

the white and silver label of this red is the perfect introduction to an elegant wine that fits any occasion and is at home on any table. Argante is forged of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot into a delicious and generous wine that offers notes of dark berries, cassis and herbs with a hint of anise.

9. Obsidian Ridge Cabernet 2007 | sale 24.99

a true canvas with inviting color and depth; well made by Michael Terrien. With attractive red and black currant fruit mixed with licorice and spice box this is a beautiful Cabernet. Raw with natural, curvy and juicy flavors this red is delicious now, but will be totally seductive with a little more age.

10. Hall Sauvignon Blanc 2009 | sale 19.99

intriguing with its blood orange flavors balanced with expressive white fruit and a backbone of lusty, vibrant citrus and minerality that appears almost poetic.

11. Dante Cabernet Reserve 2008 | sale 9.99

just another character in what seems to be an ode to wine from Michael Pozzan. He makes several wines we enjoy and they are all different and free of convention from a particular style or profile. The colors of this California wine sway between red and deep purple framing a core of black cherry, plum and currant finishing with delicious hints of herb and spice.

12. Annabella Chardonnay 2008 | sale 10.99

another Pozzan you love; this is a wonderfully balanced Chardonnay with notes of tropical fruit and vanilla that are not over the top. The wine is crisp with bright citrus and apple that finishes with very subtle caramel and smoke.

be well red...

2010-11-28T19:09:00.004-05:00

2008 Orin Swift Cellars
Dave Phinney, winemaker
Zinfandel, California
no. 69 WS top 100 list 2010

This is a red that's stacked. Rich and stylish with aromas of spicy blackberry and layers of sexy black cherry and licorice with pulsing flavors of vanilla and subtle toasty oak. Enjoy this Zin all day and all night, no need to leave the house; stay satisfied through 2015

thanksgiving 2010...

2010-11-28T19:01:00.003-05:00

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.
~ John Fitzgerald Kennedy

we wish you a happy and healthy thanksgiving holiday
... cheers!

il vino, arte dell'uomo wine, the art of man...

2010-09-27T21:08:00.002-04:00

The estate of Zaccagnini is located within Abruzzo, about two and a half hours east of Rome. Abruzzo borders the region of Marche to the north, Lazio to the west and southwest, Molise to the southeast, and the Adriatic Sea to the east. While Abruzzo is not Broadway or Hollywood with sun-glassed star types, it is home to Italian wine stars Marcello Zaccagnini and winemaker Concezio Marulli, who produce regional wines that everyone can enjoy, without sub-titles. Cantina Zaccagnini is a family thing, father and son Ciccio and Marcello Zaccagnini with cousin Concezio Marulli. Their approach to winemaking is comparable to that of a painter or sculptor and their art, or a composer and the music. Marcello's passion for music and all things art is obvious to anyone who has the pleasure of visiting the winery, it houses lots of his modern art collection.

This is not a story of a rich family invested in the cool world of wine. Marcello grew up working in his father's vineyard growing grapes to sell to local winemakers; the market went south and in 1977 Marcello decided that if the harvest didn't sell, they would produce wine. Ten hard years passed during which Marcello worked the vineyard in the mornings, then went to his welder job to earn much needed extra cash. From age ten Concezio worked alongside his family; he learned the art of making wine, and with natural talent, skill and passion Concezio Marulli has created the Zaccagnini style of wine that is both artful and present.

Concezio Marulli...

2010-09-27T21:06:00.002-04:00

Under the guidance of Concezio Marulli, the winery keeps the most modern winemaking technology and implements an all quality control system throughout the entire wine production process. The history of the Cantina Zaccagnini is rooted in the passionate bonds of family and the relationship between man and nature, wine and art.

Cantina Zaccagnini...

2010-09-27T20:58:00.008-04:00

Cantina Zaccagnini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2007...
don't let the twig hanging on the bottle decieve you, the packaging is interesting but the wine is more than image. The twig is actually a piece of the vine, or a 'tralcetto' and the the wine is, as they say, very approachable. Better said, the wine is delicious, hard to resist and easy to enjoy on its own or with lots of foods.

It's all Montepulciano with deep colors of garnet and purple. The aromas are in Hi-Def; ripe cherry and earth with a little tobacco leaf mixed in. There's a really nice balance of fruit, weight and no pucker tannins that push with a, 'you know it's a red wine' finish.

Cantina Zaccagnini Cerasuolo Rosato 2009...
a pretty pale pink color with an intense bouquet. Sexy, fragrant and well balanced; pleasing with an elegant surface of cranberry and strawberry.

Cantina Zaccagnini Bianco di Ciccio 2009...
this white is mostly Trebbiano d'Abruzzo and some Chardonnay. With cool hues of lemon that reflect waves of green, it throws off sharp perfumed aromas. Delicate flavors of white fruit mixed with a touch of citrus make this a really honest and pleasant drink.

Cantina Zaccagnini Pinot Grigio 2009...
a soft, well styled Pinot Grigio that shows with a pale golden color that introduces subtle aromas of citrus with an almost spice, peach and orange range of flavors. With very easy acidity, this white can be enjoyed with almost every food, all day long.

Casali Di Bibbiano...Argante Toscana 2006

2010-09-27T20:54:00.006-04:00

The white and silver label of this red is the perfect introduction to an elegant wine that fits any occasion and is at home on any table. Argante is forged of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot into a delicious and generous wine that offers notes of dark berries with sparks of anise and herbs.

Its lively style is the result of carefully handled fruit, and the depth of flavor is partly the result of fourteen to eighteen months in small French oak barrels. The tannins are not aggressive, and the structure is in place with depth and a fine balance that leaves you with a memorable finish.

Where liberty dwells, there is my country... Benjamin Franklin

2010-09-13T17:18:00.006-04:00

we honor and remember the patriots of 9.11

tuscan passion...Marchesi De Frescobaldi Tenuta di Castiglioni 2007

2010-09-06T15:51:00.007-04:00

Frescobaldi's 2007 Tenuta di Castiglioni is superb. Dark red fruit, licorice and delicious charred herbs and spice are some of the notes that emerge from this plump red. This 2007 is much richer and deeper than the '08 and some past vintages. Among the many wines of this quality, it is a clear hands-down winner of the vintage. In the able hands of the Frescobaldi team, the blend of fifty per-cent Cabernet, thirty Merlot, ten Cabernet Franc and Sangiovese is very successful. Tenuta di Castiglioni bares the classic Marchesi De Frescobaldi mark of passion. You can enjoy this now and as it matures through 2015.

brazen and seductive...Bodega Antucura Calvulcura 2004

2010-09-06T15:04:00.005-04:00

A delicious, ripe blend of well crafted Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. This producer is in one of the ascendant regions for reds in the Uco Valley of Argentina. Fresh and full of complex fruit, with edges that suggest black cherry and cassis tied together with hints of mocha chocolate and subtle spice clove. The flavors have vertical dimension, arching like an arrow in flight, landing with a brazen and very seductive dark finish.

just released...The PrisonerOrin Swift Winery

2010-08-20T12:17:00.014-04:00

At 37, winemaker Dave Phinney is at the top of his craft. His hugely successful Orin Swift wines are at an almost cult stage and regardless of price, everyone wants them. He began making his most accessible wine, The Prisoner, by accident. In 2000 he added a few varietals to a batch of Zinfandel that just did not move him, it had an awkward profile; but the corrected brooding red berry blend has been selling out vintage after vintage ever since, and so will this 2008.

The activist Dave Phinney is also focused and very purposeful, he’s donating all of the proceeds from his supple Veladora Sauvignon Blanc project to the consortium called Puertas Abiertas (Open Doors), which provides medical care to Napa’s farm workers and their families.

mussels with chorizo... chef curtis stone

2010-07-15T20:48:00.004-04:00

prep...
1 pound Spanish chorizo, cut into bite size pieces
4 shallots, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
4 pounds mussels, bearded & scrubbed
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro & garnish
6 tablespoons butter
1 baguette, torn into large pieces

method...

1. saute the chorizo for about 8 minutes, or until they are golden
2. add the shallots and garlic, and saute for about 2 minutes, or until fragrant
3. add the mussels and toss quickly to coat
4. add the wine
5. cover and cook over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes, or until the mussels begin to open
6. discard any mussels that do not open
7. add 3 tablespoons of cilantro and toss to combine
8. using a slotted spoon, transfer the mussels and chorizo to a warm large serving bowl
9. cover to keep warm
10. boil the juices remaining in the pan for 1 minute
11. whisk in the butter
12. pour the sauce over the mussels, sprinkle with the additional cilantro and serve immediately with the baguette pieces

*and, of course, two to three bottles of white wine... served well chilled in the appropriate glassware

if you prefer red, we suggest an Aglianico, a bright young Chianti or Pinot Noir

a fourth to remember...

2010-07-03T14:22:00.009-04:00

Paul Revere; artist Gilbert Stuart

we wish you all a safe, memorable and proud 4th of July celebration...

So through the night rode Paul Revere;
And so through the night went his cry of alarm
To every Middlesex village and farm,
A cry of defiance and not of fear,
A voice in the darkness, a knock at the door,
And a word that shall echo forevermore!
For borne on the night-wind of the Past,
Through all our history, to the last,
In the hour of darkness and peril and need,
The people will waken and listen to hear
The hurrying hoof-beats of that steed
And the midnight message of Paul Revere.

to celebrate the fourth we've chosen four hand-crafted wines that reflect the hard work, ethic and infectious spirit of the American family. We've tasted the wines with Paul Gardner, the brand manager of Flora Springs Winery, and find the Komes & Garvey families continue to produce distinctive, truly American wines.

flora springs napa cabernet 2006...
everyone knows that Napa is one of the best places in the world to grow cabernet. The vineyard sites of Flora Springs yield terrific fruit that produce classic estate bottled Napa Valley cab. This is a red with big, ripe, sweet fruit that isn't shy as it runs across the palate and slides with a smooth finish.

flora springs napa merlot 2007...
merlot is a favorite among seekers of soft supple red wine, but this bottle is an ambitious, delicious ready to drink effort. The vintage shows full throttle strawberry and cherry with hints of raspberry and cocoa spice; and yes it's really, really OK to enjoy merlot.

flora springs napa chardonnay 2008...
the knock on the door is of peaches and pear with hints of pineapple. This white brings it with bright acidity and subdued oak tones that make it a delicious wine that pairs well with food, and a wonderful sip on its own. Open the door to this throwback; a chardonnay with the classic style that once was a true ambassador for new world chardonnay.

flora springs trilogy 2006...
90 points RP wine advocate / robert parker
this red blend of Cabernet, Merlot with Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot is all about delicious notes of cedar, black currant and sweet dark cherry . This is a ready drink with elegant texture, great purity and length kept in focus with stunning balance. It will drink well over the next 7-10 years.

an aussie and two italians...

2010-06-26T20:36:00.003-04:00

an Australian and two Italians were stranded on an island for many days. One morning a seemingly empty bottle washed ashore. When they picked it up, a genie rushed out. The genie was grateful for the freedom, and granted each one a wish. One Italian said: I wish to be on a beach surrounded by beautiful girls. Whoosh, the Italian was gone to Hawaii; the second said: I wish to be in a casino with piles of cash. Whoosh, and off he went to the Borgata. The Australian could not decide what he wanted. After a long thought, he said: Gee, it's very lonely on this island. I wish my mates were back!

ross estate barossa valley shiraz 2005...
this is a striking example of very well made shiraz with ideal bottle age. While five years is not very long, the time has tamed the tannins and allowed the fruit to lace the aromas with smoky, spiced dark raspberry. Elegant and not the usual brash wine from the barossa, this red plays rounds of interesting and satisfying rich flavors.
91 points WA

le rime pinot grigio 2009...
true to the quality that Banfi represents this is an exeptional effort that is fruitful, fragrant and fresh. An above-average pinot grigio with crisp acidity balanced with vibrant fruit. This is a white that would be a nice addition to any gathering and a compliment to any light meal.

ruffino lumina pinot grigio 2009...
with it's name 'illumination of the moon' and the label's moon icon representing the ancient alchemist's symbol for the earth, this white is a contemporary addition to Ruffino's top quality portfolio. This is a fragrant and elegant wine with fresh notes of citrus and a pleasing hint of mineral; a big brand with a small winery touch.

four for dad...

2010-06-20T15:31:00.005-04:00

based on the most current data... the Indiana University's Kelley School of Business has offered some interesting father's day statistics:

* There are an estimated 67.8 million fathers across the nation

* Throughout the states, individuals will spend an average of $94.32 on father's day gifts

Just in time for Father's Day this Sunday, we've put together four spectacular, way above average wines that are priced well below the national average of $94.32

don melchor 2006...
95 points RP wine advocate / jay miller

don melchor is the flagship red of Concha y Toro, a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon that is an Icon of Chile's wine industry. This is a wine that will, without any doubt, age so very, very well. With an alluring bouquet of toast, cedar, mocha and black currant this voluptuous wine is so incredibly well balanced that it will provide hours of pure pleasure now, and improve over the next fifteen years.
regularly 84.99 / specially priced 49.99

paul hobbs napa cabernet 2007...
93 points RP wine advocate / robert parker

you can feel the rock & roll of this delicious Napa red. Its melodic-like notes of charcoal, black currant and berries will keep you humming to the lyrics of earth, cassis and smoke. A deep, opulent full bodied Cabernet possessing overt correct purity and length. It will drink well now and hold for 15 or more years.
regularly 85.99 / specially priced 64.99

flora springs trilogy 2006...
90 points RP wine advocate / robert parker

this napa red blend of Cabernet, Merlot with Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot is all about delicious notes of cedar, black currant and sweet dark cherry. This is a ready drink with elegant texture, great purity and length and all with stunning balance. It will certainly drink well over the next 7-10 years.
regularly 47.99 / specially priced 34.99

heidsieck & company monopole champagne...
91 points wine spectator & 77 of ws top 100

the aromatic zest and pear profile of this broadly satisfying sparkler is reminiscent of a cult 'grower' champagne. the notes of toasted brioche and apples are classic. with its long, silky finish this is as elegant a champagne as you can find at any price.
regularly 39.99 / specially priced 29.99

summer fun & value...

2010-06-13T13:06:00.000-04:00

oyster bay 2008 pinot noir...

this is a well balanced wine that hits all the correct high notes of classic fruit and earth. with an exciting bing cherry level of acidity it will pair extremely well with any food on any occasion; the perfect summer red from New Zealand.

oxford landing 2008 pinot grigio...

a surprising pinot grigio from the land of oz. with its incredible fresh fruit flavors that seem to just float on the palate, you can sip this all-day long. this is an expressive white with easy notes of citrus and kiwi; a practical and fun all purpose summer wine you can enjoy through the entire season.

Robert Biale visits wine nation...and has some expansion fun

2010-06-13T12:53:00.019-04:00

our five favorite definitions of expansion...

:expand
pronunciation: \ik - 'spand\
function: verb

5) to open out

4) more value and choice

3) to increase the extent, number, volume or scope

2) to enlarge

... and our number one favorite definition of expansion

1) more stuff!

six really fun things about our expansion...

2010-06-13T12:51:00.002-04:00

6) drinking wine out of plastic cups because we can't find our wine glasses

5) listening to the interesting sound of expensive bottles of napa cabs as they break

4) searching for an electrical outlet that works

3) playing rock, paper, scissors and the winner searches for the electrician

2) trying to find the Italian wine section, because we forgot where we put it and lost the map

and the number one most fun thing about expansion...

1) enjoying really, really cold beer with left-over really dusty donuts

we are almost finished with our expansion... you can help us by buying a few things and taking a little dust home with you.

the poet and the well... dante cabernet sauvignon maxwell creek sauvignon blanc

2010-05-01T20:51:00.003-04:00

Dante, was an Italian poet of the middle ages. His 'divine comedy' is considered a masterpiece of literary work. During the dark ages, Italy resembled a mosaic of small states that did not share a language or a common culture. Dante, having written in Latin and other known languages, also wrote in a new language based on the dialect of Tuscany with elements of Latin and other regional dialects. Dante called it 'Italian' - for that reason Dante is often called the 'father of the Italian language'. It looks like Dante was a cool up-to-date intellectual with international interests.

dante reserve cabernet 2008...
is another character in what seems to be an ode to wine from Michael Pozzan. He makes several wines we enjoy, and they are all different and free of convention from a particular style or flavor profile. The colors of this California wine sway between red and deep purple framing a core of black cherry, plum, and currant finishing with hints of dusty herb and spice.

maxwell creek sauvignon blanc 2009...
shows up with a verse of pear, candied pineapple and tropical fruit. This SB has good balance with rhymes of peach and melon with hits of lemon custard. A perfect wine for spring and summer that will pair well with lots of grilled stuff, as well as sushi and any prepared seafood. The wine will also fit in for that first and second glass of white wine when everyone is just chatting, having fun and just plain catching-up.

There is a seam to this that is best described with the following:
...and always serve bread with your wine.
But, son,
always serve wine.

urban structure... urban uco torrontes 2009

2010-04-18T13:53:00.001-04:00

winemakers from all around the world acknowledge that Argentina offers the ideal conditions for the development of an almost perfect grape. As in all the more interesting vineyard regions of the world, the fruit acquires the unique qualities that the influence of weather and soils create. In Argentina, the grapes, particularly the reds from the vineyards of Argentine Patagonia and whites from Salta, mature with intensity yielding modern wines with elegant balance and structure.

because it is an indigenous grape, torrontes might be the most distinctive of all the wines made in Argentina. The wine made from torrontes has quickly found its way onto restaurant wine lists and retailers' shelves. I consider it the calling card of white wine from Argentina. Torrontes will fast become your summer white. It will pair well with most foods, quench any mood and satisfy that self-appointed friend or family related wine critic.

relativity & the speed of wine... relativity vineyards

2010-04-09T14:32:00.003-04:00

at the beginning of the 20th century, the theory of relativity was considered to be one of the most difficult and abstract theories in science; to many it still is. thankfully, while many try to make it so, wine is neither abstract nor difficult to enjoy.

the wines come to us from Relativity Vineyards, a small but very savvy napa based producer. the fruit is all estate grown, and the resulting wines are correct and expressive of the region's unique climate and soils. each wine shows beautiful fruit, good structure and balance. we compared Relativity to wannabe cult wines that are a lot more expensive, and they did not add-up. we are thrilled to be able to deliver uncommon wine at a very common price.

relativity vineyards merlot 2007...
merlot has sort of been poked fun-at, (remember 'side-ways') but this wine has appeal. packed with dark berry fruit and hints of cocoa and earth. the tannins fall softly on the palate with a velvet like texture. this red is instantly appealing and a great alternative to similar, more tannic right-bank bordeaux. by the way, remember that crazy 'will not drink merlot' character in 'side-ways' who was saving that 1961Cheval Blanc from bordeaux for a special occasion but at the end drank it alone, well there was plenty of merlot in the blend.

relativity vineyards quantum reserve 2007...
this red is an eccentric blend of cabernet, zinfandel, syrah, petit sirah and charbono, and it defies the logic of most red blends, but it's a balanced equation that proves delicious. garnet in color, it throws jammy notes of blackberries and espresso with a little semi-sweet chocolate. savory and balanced with lots of plum, dark fruit and chocolate it finishes with elements of spice. this is a wine to hang with, it's delicious and will pair with almost anything... anything. remember I said these guys were savvy; this might be the same wine as that bottle they call, let's say 'the incarcerated'... no more hints.

exotic napa & a regular Joe... caymus conundrumnapa cellars cabernet

2010-04-01T19:09:00.007-04:00

in earlier times, because of its beauty and bounty, napa meant 'motherland' today, to some, it means five-star resorts and world renowned restaurants but for many of us the napa valley stands for the pinnacle of great american wine.

caymus conundrum 2008...
a wine made from a blend of chardonnay, viognier, sauvignon blanc, and semillon has recently been described and criticized as a cunningly made wine in decline. the wine continues to be an innovative california white, apart from the many white blends of this and that. this is a transformed conundrum, a wine modern and sleek - that delivers to both red and white wine drinkers what they want - a glass filled with delicious ripe savory fruit that drifts with exotic, interesting texture and undeniable pleasure.

napa cellars cabernet 2007...
is an easily understood california cabernet; with its friendly dark fruit characteristics, the wine oozes vibrant aromas of blackberries and plum. the dark, spicy-fruit and cassis flavors join well with integrated oak and vanilla that are straight forward and please the senses. this is a complex red made by a 'regular Joe' - the wine is made by Joe Shirley, who began his career at Sonoma Cutrer in 1997, and he hasn't looked back. besides making really good wine, Joe Shirley once bowled a 252... a bowling winemaker, you can't get more regular than that.

the devil & angeline... angeline pinot noirartesa reserve chardonnay

2010-03-26T21:13:00.008-04:00

the name 'pinot noir' is derived from the french words for 'pine' and 'black' suggesting the shape and color of the tightly clustered dark purple pine cone-shaped fruit. The grape is a difficult variety to cultivate and transform into wine, but when nurtured in the vineyard and tamed by a passionate winemaker the effort will yield fantastic wine. Pinot Noir has such a difficult reputation that some declare, 'God made Cabernet Sauvignon whereas the devil made Pinot Noir.'

2008 angeline pinot noir...
has a brilliant ruby color that flows with aromas of strawberry and raspberry that stage tastes of ripe cherries and slight smoke. The dark flavors of cherry are layered with a hint of vanilla ending with a clean satisfying fruit finish.

2007 artesa reserve chardonnay...
suggests flavors of peach, apple and mango with hints of kiwi and lime. The fruit is kept vibrant with lively acidity and interesting with its layered spice and vanilla. This chardonnay rests on your palate with a melting caramel finish.

classic rock... paul hobbs napa cabernet 2007

2010-03-24T18:22:00.007-04:00

This is an accessible effort from a brilliant Paul Hobbs and his unique portfolio of Napa Cabernet. Hobbs is one of just a few ultimate global winemakers whose California projects are superb collectible art.

We recently tasted this just released 2007 dark, dark Napa stunner and it is an absolutely inspired work. You can feel the rock & roll of this delicious Napa red. Its melodic-like notes of charcoal, black currant and berries will keep you humming to the classic lyrics of earth, cassis and smoke. A deep, opulent full bodied Cabernet beating with honest, correct purity and length. It will hold or drink well for 15 or more years.

st patrick's day sparkler... bellussi prosecco

2010-03-11T22:48:00.004-05:00

This is a delicious sparkling white with the edgy crackling harmony of notes you can only get from say... bagpipes. Yes bagpipes! Italian wine and bagpipes, and Prosecco on St Patrick's day - why not? If the Roman Emperor Nero played the 'pipes' certainly we can enjoy a little Italian while we celebrate our Irish.

A user friendly sparkler that boasts elegant fruit and body. The delicate bouquet and crisp freshness of this wine make it ideal for any occasion, including St Patrick's day. Remember to drink better wine more often.

a late bloomer... summit lake vineyards zinfandel

2010-03-09T20:23:00.007-05:00

The wine that started it all, their 2003 Howell Mountain Zinfandel put them on the map...

the vintage is full bodied with just the right amount of dusty mountain tannins that allow it to age well. Seductive and penetrating with its fragrant aromas wound in black pepper, sweet oak, plums and currant. A beautifully made Zinfandel that sparks with elegant flavors of ripe dark fruit and blackberry with a balanced bright finish of spice and bing cherry. With only 754 cases made, this Howell Mountain Zinfandel deserves more attention than it receives but that's to our benefit.

this wine retails at 25.00...
our value 2 price 15.99 per bottle

pinot noir american style... plowbuster pinot noir

2010-03-04T22:06:00.006-05:00

from a plot of rocky red soils in the Willamette Valley, the 2007 Plowbuster by Carabella bears the unique mark of Oregon Pinot Noir. Great expressive character and elegance common to wines at double its price. Plowbuster is a Burgundian that speaks with American complexity and style.

the winds of wine... bodegas trivento

2010-02-26T15:43:00.002-05:00

from soils influenced by the three winds that rush through the vineyards of Mendoza, Bodegas Trivento has produced wines with a unique character that is truly the mark of Argentina.

Bodegas Trivento 2008 Torrontes...
made by Manuel Gonzalez with fruit from the Mendoza region. this is a wine with a fragrance reminiscent of rose petals and peach. a white with exotic flavors of tropical fruits and flowers with a refreshing boost of acidity.

Bodegas Trivento 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon...
made by Manuel Gonzalez from the fruit of vineyards in Maipu, Mendoza. an interesting and robust cabernet, deep in colors of garnet and purple. the wine is filled with aromas of plum and mint that lead to flavors of dark, edgy peppery fruit.

love at first taste... maldonado los olivos chardonnay

2010-02-21T16:01:00.036-05:00

Since the debut of Maldonado Chardonnay, comparisons with the amazing California Chardonnays of Kistler, Marcassin and Peter Michael have become very commonplace. It's only a short matter of time before Maldonado is on every meaningful wine list. For everyone who enjoys Chardonnay or intriguing whites, this is a serious must drink. It also belongs on the must drink lists of those discriminating old-world disciples who will only drink white Burgundy. I've been a fan of this wine for several years, it was love at first taste. I absolutely recommend the wine. One taste and you will agree that Maldonado Chardonnay is correct, expressive and delicious. Perfect.

The Maldonado Family Vineyards started forty-four years ago when Lupe Maldonado moved to California from a small farming community in Michoacan, Mexico. Lupe spent years working in vineyards throughout Napa Valley, and he settled down in the, then, small town of St. Helena. In the early 70's Lupe was working for Sterling Vineyards when Peter Newton offered him the opportunity to join in the creation of a new winery in the Spring Mountain District of St. Helena. Lupe’s dedication and hard work paid off; he was named vineyard manager for Newton. For more than thirty years at Newton Vineyard Lupe proudly dedicated all his passion, energy and skill. His son Hugo succeeded him in 1999. Soon after, Lupe began applying his decades of experience to his own project, a ten acre parcel of land he'd accumulated in the coolest southern reaches of the Napa Valley in Jamieson Canyon.

The wine is made by Abe Schoener, a true maverick in California winemaking. Much like his good friend and mentor John Konsgaard, Abe's winemaking practices and technique produce many of today's more interesting and amazing American wines.

annabella artesa amabilis...

2010-02-21T13:47:00.004-05:00

annabella pinot noir and artesa chardonnay, two wines that are best described as 'amabilis' - easily lovable and disposed to please.

Yes, it is time to think about things that are lovable and pleasing; forget about the winter cold and snow. Drink wines that will inspire warm thoughts and remind you of all the possibilities and new beginnings the approaching spring has to offer.

2007 annabella pinot noir...
made by michael pozzan with fruit from the carneros region of california. a pinot noir that is concentrated with lush dark fruit and intricate aromas of plum, black cherry and vanilla. this is just a fantastic red to share with a great meal or great conversation.

2007 artesa reserve chardonnay...
made by david dobson with carneros fruit and aged in french oak. this is a wonderfully balanced chardonnay, with notes of vanilla and cream that are not over the top. the wine is crisp with citrus and apple, it finishes with very subtle caramel and smoke.

roses are red, regale is sweet... banfi rosa regale brachetto d'acqui

2010-02-11T18:58:00.006-05:00

complete valentine's day or any romantic date with a bottle or two of Banfi Rosa Regale Brachetto D'Acqui...
regularly 22.99 but just a little sweeter at 14.00

please everyone with this lush sweet sparkler, enjoy the enticing aromas of rose petals and strawberry coupled with flavors of dark cherry and strawberries. a perfect wine with just enough sparkle and sweetness to inspire life, love and all things wonderful.

another color... tres palacios 2008 pinot noir

2010-02-03T19:32:00.003-05:00

many of you have already discovered the Tres Palacios Cabernet, Merlot and most everyone's favorite the Carmenere; well here's another color for your crayon box, the Pinot Noir. The wine pours ruby red with fragrant and elegant notes of strawberry and violets dressed with cherries. While it's not a very complex wine, it is a very poised satisfying red flowing with clean, crisp, vibrant fruit balanced with good focus and finish. You will enjoy this Chilean Pinot Noir over the next 3 years with pretty much anything.

a ton 80... darting 2008 riesling kabinett

2010-02-03T19:28:00.007-05:00

the highest score possible in a round of darts with 3 throws is 180. Known in the sport as 'a ton 80' the score is achieved when all 3 darts land in the center triple 20. These 2 wines do just that, they strike the bull's eye with exuberant style, authenticity and quality.

an A-list must have wine for any occasion, and the best vintage of this wine in more than ten years. Distinct and delicious, this Riesling shows appreciable complexity. It is addictively drinkable, with a wonderful yin-yang of fresh fruit and elegant tartness... absolutely correct and insane with Asian or anything food you really like.

another color... bodegas el nido clio 2007

2010-01-12T16:01:00.021-05:00

Spain's black and purple 2007 Clio is made of 70% Monastrell and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon; the wine is aged for more than two years in new American and French oak before it's placed in the bottle. This is a sultry red with caressing aromas of lavender and underbrush with blueberry carried by streams of smoky dark currant. Sensual, with satisfying fullness onto the palate, this stacked very attractive red is seductive. For those who are intimidated by prowess or overwhelmed by boldness, Clio is not for them. We should all thank Australian winemaker Chris Ringland for his work with this project. Drink in this very satisfying experience through 2020.

2010 and a new deck...

2010-01-05T16:33:00.028-05:00

Our sincerest best wishes to all our friends. We hope that 2010 deals us all winning hands filled with new and great opportunities.

Let's start the new year with a little wine history...

Just as, most agree, society finds its roots in ancient Mesopotamia, the earliest evidence for the cultivation of grapes and the supervised fermentation into wine is found around 6000 B.C. in the ancient Middle East. In Egypt they recorded the harvest of grapes on the walls of their tombs; bottles of wine were buried with Pharaohs in order that they might celebrate with guests in the afterlife. The people of ancient Greece considered wine a drink of the elite and it was the principal beverage of the Symposia, (an event of entertainment, poetry and the exchange of ideas) immortalized by Plato and the poets of the period.

But it was during the Roman era that wine became popular throughout society. In Roman cities wine bars were set up on almost every street, and the Romans exported wine and winemaking practices to the rest of Europe. Soon, the production and quality of wine in other regions rivaled that of Rome: in 92 A.D., Emperor Domitian decreed that all of the vines in the Cahors region near Bordeaux be pulled out, ostensibly in favor of the wheat cultivation the empire so desperately needed, but possibly also to quell the competition with Italian wine exports.

After the fall of Rome, wine continued to be produced in the Byzantine Empire in the eastern Mediterranean. It spread eastward to Central Asia along the Silk Route; grape wine was introduced into China by the eighth century. But the spread of Islam largely halted the wine industry in North Africa and the Middle East. In Europe, because of the need for wine in the Christian sacraments, winemaking was primarily the business of monasteries. During this same period some winemakers produced stronger, more full bodied wines that replaced sweeter, more ancient wine efforts.

During the Renaissance, the unique qualities and styles of wine from specific wine regions were identified and appreciated by an increasingly sophisticated wine market. By the 18th century the wine trade soared, especially in France where Bordeaux became the best known and dominant producer of fine wines.

In the New World the first successful winemaking occurred in the 19th century. Surprisingly, in America, Ohio was the first region to successfully cultivate grapes for wine but it was soon eclipsed by wine production in California. Similarly at about this time grape cultivation first began in Australia, and in the Old World Champagne was quickly establishing itself as a favorite luxury wine and fortified wines such as ports and sherries became increasingly popular, especially in Britain.

While the wine industry of the 19th century grew and enjoyed great success, there was also a catastrophe late in the 1800's; a pest (Phylloxera) epidemic destroyed many vines in France, a disaster that affected European and French winemaking for decades. The plague was overcome by grafting cuttings of European varietal vines onto disease resistant American and Spanish rootstock.

Winemaking today is a global industry. Modern farming technique and science almost ensures that mass produced wine, as a product, meets uniform standards, though sometimes at the expense of quality and correct varietal flavor. There is good news in the trend back toward more traditional methods of winemaking that will preserve more of the fruits' true character that in turn will produce better wines. In addition there is also a move toward sustainable, organic and biodynamic farming that will produce even better quality grapes with more natural varietal character. Then there are the smaller boutique wineries and the young winemakers that, for many years, have practiced true hands-on growing and fermentation technique delivering delicious and complex wines into the marketplace. Not least, there are always the more sought after bottles, the new and the already well established cult wines made by the rock-star like winemakers from all over the world that always deliver an ultimate wine experience. Yes, 2010 will be a fine year.

*thanks NYX

the last good country... more colors to come

2009-12-06T13:33:00.009-05:00

In his unfinished work, 'The Last Good Country' Hemingway touches on his youth and, as he grew older, an appreciation and respect for the balance found in nature. Hemingway spent years in Spain, he lived it and wrote about it in many forms. The wine industry in Spain has also experienced a youthful phase and followed popular trends. The industry has now matured, and winemakers have embraced the natural balance in the climate and soils that different regions within the country offer. One of the most compelling wine stories of recent decades has been Spain’s spectacular evolution from an exporter of oceans of mediocre, highly commercial dull wine into a source of some of the more delicious, original and sought after wines in the world...

here are two new colors for your crayon box,

JUAN GIL 2007...
with intense deep red and cherry colors, this is a clean and complex red made entirely of Monastrell. Very cool flavors of dark fruit tied together with very attractive aromas of vanilla and subtle notes of new wood; good lively and edgy structure makes it well balanced and friendly.

BORSAO TRES PICOS 2007...
this is all Garnacha with legs dressed in colors of cherry red and shades of purple. There's a bouquet of mature red fruit with traces of flowers that is typical of the best Garnachas. Rich and well structured this red lands on your palate with flavors of blackberries, strawberries, vanilla and plum, all well combined with pleasant tannin.

wine notes... 2nd label 101

2009-11-08T14:55:00.043-05:00

Second wine or a second label is a term widely common with Bordeaux that refers to the release of an estate's wine under a second label, and not its prestigious first label. The second wine is selected from a blend (cuvee) not chosen for use in the final Grand Vin bottled with the first label. While there are many reasons why a finished blend is not released as the first label, the relative success or failure of a vintage or an inability to produce the optimum style of wine the Chateaux are known for are principal considerations that determine what wines make it to the first label, and which get cut to a second or private label.

Because of average or poor vintages an estate may decide to release only a second label wine rather than risk a first label that would not be consistent with past vintages or its very individual style. Many of the second label wines offer good value because the wines are usually great, just not great enough to demand a premium price, achieve good reviews or most importantly satisfy loyal fans. The practice is old, but became prominent in the '80s when consumers discovered second label wines a more affordable way to drink a French first growth or classified Bordeaux without paying a premium for the estate's first label.

The model has taken hold in the US and in most new world wine producing countries. It's kind of new and it may seem to be a bit of a mystery or a little secretive; it isn't as easy as Bordeaux to figure-out the who, what and where. There is lots of wine out there so alternate labels make sense to a winery that wants to sell all its wine. Some well known wineries are releasing very good wine as second labels or private labels (private labels are exclusive to national chains, better wine shops and restaurants). California wineries, even with their great Napa Cabs, face the same realities of excess wine, the effects of vintage, quality and style, the model works well for them. Whether there is too much wine produced, the economy, the vintage, the style, whatever the reason... there is good wine out there at reduced prices; everyone wins. So go ahead, be brave and travel the mean streets of wine, but remember the facts:

1) there is a lot of wine from around the world putting extreme pressure on suppliers and retailers to lower prices and encourage more consumption

2) not only are there second labels, but new brand extensions and new labels, as well as a proliferation of private labels

3) beware of cleverly marketed 'so-called' second label or wine club offers that purport to be 'de-classified' from higher priced American and European appellations or wine from very fine wineries that can only be found through non-winery or wine club internet sites.

five grapes with classic style... cinq cepages

2009-10-27T19:04:00.009-04:00

Cinq Cepages is the flagship wine of California's Chateau St. Jean. Winemaker Margo Van Staaveren selects fruit from the finest vineyards to craft a wine that year after year defines classic with its style. The vineyard sources for the current vintage are from the Alexander, Knights and Sonoma Valleys. 2006 is iconic Cinq Cepages with signature notes of blackberry, raspberry, creamy chocolate and violet. The flavors are complex, and rich with dark fruit and dense with supple tannins that rest on the palate for a lengthy finish.

Cinq Cepages is a well styled red blend, using the Bordeaux grape varieties of Cabernet, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Each component is aged for two years in small French and American oak barrels before blending; after blending it's in bottle for another six months before release.

an american standard... silver oak | from cult to classic

2009-10-20T20:19:00.015-04:00

Silver Oak | Alexander Valley Cabernet | Napa Valley Cabernet
these very distinctive cabernets are supple, complex and deliver a very refined richness wrapped in good American oak. Critics suggest that because of its 65,000 plus case production the wine no longer merits cult status or the premium price it demands.

I will agree the label might not be cult, but that's because those who have been fortunate and have enjoyed it for many years have matured and are beyond that California cult stuff. It is now in a different class of American wine. As many French Chateaux are referred to when discussing the production of classic bordeaux, so too should Silver Oak be considered as an iconic label of classic American red wine. Silver Oak, or S.O. as my friends refer to it, still delivers a fascinating glass of wine; delicious and vibrant with pretty mocha cassis, dark plum and very elegant oak. S.O. is correct and sound, and it deserves greater respect and more appreciation - after all it is classic all American Silver Oak...

boutique malbec bodega NQN malma 2007

2009-10-20T16:34:00.020-04:00

The fruit for this single vineyard Malbec was harvested by hand from a beautiful vineyard estate with unique landscapes in Patagonia. Malma has been aged in American and French oak with time in the bottle for about 12 months in total.

With inviting aromas of cedar, spice and sweet violet, the flavors of Malma are framed with colors of ruby and deep purple. Its delicious savory and lengthy dark fruit flavors slowly make their way onto your palate with deliberate tannins folded into bright fruit... an enticing Malbec with flavors that are supple and round with elegant youth that's easy to appreciate.

boutique malbec... huarpe wines taymente malbec

2009-10-20T16:12:00.013-04:00

Taymente Huarpe Malbec 2007 11.99
Argentina > Mendoza
Because of the many satisfying styles, and the ease with which they pair with food, Malbecs from Argentina have become popular. In most of Argentina, and especially the areas surrounding the state of Mendoza, Malbec grows and matures with great intensity. The 2007 Huarpe Taymente Malbec is certainly an example of a 'bodegas boutique' wine... both elegant and rustic with an attractive more fruit driven style.
my rating 3.5/5

wine notes... bodegas boutique and malbec

2009-10-20T16:11:00.013-04:00

Originally grown in the Southeast of France and one of the blending grapes used in the remarkable wines of Bordeaux, Malbec has become one of the premier wine exports of Argentina. Winemakers have found the ideal weather conditions and soil features for the fruit's development. In Argentina, like all the more interesting vineyard regions of the world, the fruit matures and acquires the unique qualities, and flavor profiles that the influence of weather and soil conditions create. In most of Argentina Malbec grows and matures with intensity, but wines particularly from the Mendoza areas are well balanced, elegant and very desirable.

In Argentina there are smaller wine producers grouped and referred to as 'Bodegas Boutique'. These winemakers, in common with all the better wine producers around the world, usually make very little wine and they all share in a universal passion for their art. The winemakers practice a philosophy of quality, excellence and dedication that allows them to create wines that are contemporary works of art.

In Argentina the combination of these inspired young winemakers, history and the exceptional geography, soils and weather has made the country a sort of mecca of higher quality wine exhibiting greater character and style. Winemaking in Argentina is still at an early stage, with a prominent history that only reaches back to a mere 15 or 20 years. I believe there is certainly even more history, accomplishment and great wine to look forward to.

wine notes... american terroir

2009-10-20T15:40:00.010-04:00

We are all familiar with Vidalia onions, Idaho potatoes, and Florida oranges; we know where they are grown and what flavors to expect, that's pretty much why we buy and enjoy them. When it comes to wine, many don't make the connection or associate how climate and the earth's different soils shape the amazing flavors we enjoy in wine. It's called 'terroir' - the term is French but it hits the mark when used to describe the special and persistent characteristics that weather and soil conditions contribute to the depth of flavor and complexity in a glass of wine.

American winemakers have been producing unique world class wine for decades. Many of us have been drinking and enjoying the wines way before the lead character Pinot Noir, and the script Side Ways gained enough interest for a Hollywood first meeting. There are many good, big name and costly reds out there but let me introduce a couple, all priced within reason, distinctive and new....

'Capiaux Cellars' Pinot Noir and 'O'Shaughnessey' Cabernet Sauvignon from California both made by Sean Capiaux. Two stylish, balanced and rich wines with one expressive quality in common... American Terroir

o'shaughnessy cabernet sauvignon... howell mountain 2005

2009-10-20T14:39:00.022-04:00

If it's possible to create something both sultry and pure, Sean Capiaux has done it and put it in a bottle. His 2005 Howell Mountain Cabernet is sultry with its spin of attractive rich ruby and dark garnet colors, and expressively pure with a satisfying palate of black currant, chocolate and cherry. The wine is elegant and powerful with texture and length. It’s an absolutely delicious glass now, but you just know it will be better as it matures.

Sean Capiaux has earned a well deserved reputation with notable work at prominent wineries around the world. A few of his credits include the California wineries Jordan, Pine Ridge, Peter Michael and Houghton's in Australia. Sean launched his own label, Capiaux Cellars in 1994, and his Pinot Noirs have always been, in my mind, measured as art in winemaking.

kali hart chardonnay 2008...

2009-09-24T14:26:00.007-04:00

Talbott Chardonnay Kali-Hart Santa Lucia Highlands
USA > California > Monterey County > Santa Lucia Highlands
I have enjoyed Kali Hart since the very first vintage, it was then and still is well made, and an incredible value. This Chard is as elegant and nuanced as its bigger, pricier Talbott Chardonnay brothers. Beginning with the current 2008 vintage the production of this wine has been greatly reduced; so don't expect to find it just anywhere. my rating 3.5/5

Hourglass 2006

2009-09-14T19:43:00.007-04:00

Hourglass Cabernet Sauvignon
USA > California > Napa
Hourglass is at the premium end of California Cabernet, and at about 185.00 this cult wine is worth the search, and once found, worth every dollar. This is truly an almost perfect wine. You have to find it and drink it to experience and understand what power and elegance in wine really is. Hourglass should be kept in everyone's cellar, whether it be a walk-in cellar, a floor unit, a closet or under your bed... it's treasure.

my rating 5/5

Echeverria Chardonnay 2007

2009-09-14T19:33:00.019-04:00

Echeverria Chardonnay 10.99

Curico Valley
I've been drinking this '07 Chard from Echeverria on the colder side, for the last month; almost non-stop. It's been great with sushi, hot and cold pasta, salads and grilled everything. The wine is very clean with subtle acidity and loaded with expressive fresh fruit... at just about $11.00 this is an inexpensive luxury we should all enjoy.
my rating 3.5/5

Signorello Estate 2004

2009-08-07T22:24:00.008-04:00

Signorello Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

92 points WE | limited availability

regularly 55.99 | 37.99 per bottle on sale | 409.99 per case

This 2004 California Cabernet is expressive, rich and well balanced with a show-off finish of supple tannins. The mature colors of red, dark purple and garnet set the stage for aromas of spice, cocoa and vanilla bean that lead to deep, velvety flavors of black currant, kirsch and hints of cedar. The lush palate continues with flavors of ripe cassis and vanilla with very subtle tobacco.

Drink now or cellar 'till 2015