WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB - FEATURED WINES FOR DECEMBER 2009
Premium Wine Club |
International Wine Club |
West Coast Wine Club |
Red Trio Wine Club |
Single Bottle Wine Club
Platinum Wine Club |
90+ Point Wine Club |
The Ultimate Wine Club |
Sparkling Wine & Champagne Club
Pavin & Riley - Washington
Pavin & Riley is the product of Washington wine visionary Andrew Browne. Browne founded his company, Precept Brands, in
2003 with one simple idea: make great wines from Washington State that are not only true to their varietal characteristics but
also that people can actually afford to drink. Pavin & Riley showcases all of the elements that make Washington wines so popular.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah (Shiraz), Chardonnay and Riesling are champion varieties, largely responsible for putting
Washington State on the map as one of the top growing regions in the world.
FEATURED WINE: 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley
Made from 88% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Cabernet Franc. Aromatic notes of roasted coffee, Bing cherries and raspberry jam fill
this rich Cabernet. Cherries and roasted coffee continue supported by firm structure and tannins with red currant on the finish.
The wine has an overall excellent quality. Enjoy now or lay it down for a few more years and enjoy it with beef tenderloin in red
wine sauce, roasted lamb and savory cured meat (such as Bresaola).
Bodegas Monte La Reina - Spain
Monte la Reina (literally the queen's hill) owes its name to an 11th century royal concession through which the Castilian crown
granted the village of Toro the right to farm the land of the hill as a reward for its loyalty and support. At the end of the
15th century, the hill was officially fenced off following the issue of a royal permit granted by the Catholic Kings, who knew
the quality of the hill's soils and posted guards outside the enclosure to keep a daily watch over the area. In the 17th and 18th
centuries the Toro town council proudly protected and preserved the natural riches of the hill's lands which among other resources
provided timber from its forests and offered fertile soils as well as excellent vineyards. In the 19th century, the Count of
Villapadierna, Don Felipe Padierna de Villapadierna y Muniz, built a neo-gothic palace on the estate, part of which the winery has
today converted into a country guest-house.
FEATURED WINE: 2007 Vizorro Tempranillo Castilla y Leon DO
Made from 100% Tempranillo. The wine's color is a red hue, intense robe, and purple strains. Aromas of red, spring fruit, compote
of red and black fruits (sloe and blackberry). The palate is smooth, pleasant, and vibrant. The wine is full-bodied and fruit
filled with notes of glycerin. The tannins are soft and afford the wine body and volume. This wine is meant to be drunk young and
should be consumed before 2011. Pair with pates, foies, and red meats.
Bloom - Germany
Bloom produces wines grown on the hills above the river Mosel. The small, picturesque village of Valwig, which is situated 3 km.
from the famous town of Cochem, is in the heart of the Mosel-Saar-Ruwer wine region. Valwig has only 350 inhabitants with a
history dating back to the Romans. It is a typical Mosel wine-growing village with almost the entire population involved in the
wine production. Bloom's vineyards are in the best location for making excellent wine. The southern exposure of the vineyards
maximizes the sunshine, which results in continued good quality wines. The hills on both sides of the Mosel are extremely steep
and the soil conditions very poor, consequently, all the work in the vineyards is carried out by hand using methods largely
unchanged since Roman times.
FEATURED WINE: 2007 Petals Gewurztraminer Pfalz
Made from 100% Gewurztraminer from selected Mosel vineyards in Pfalz. Floral notes fill this bright, fragrant wine. Lychee and
Meyer lemons complement each other on the palate. This dry wine finishes with light honey and clove spice. This wine is sure to
please both the wine geek at your table as well as the wine novice. Chill well and try pairing it with holiday dinners or any bold
and spicy dish.
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Madonnina del Chiaro - Italy
Madonnina del Chiaro is located on a hill in the municipality of Lastra a Signa is particularly close to the city of Florence.
The winery is the owner's house of a lovely 40 hectares holding of vineyards and olive groves, immersed in the beautiful landscape
of the Florentine hills. Damiani specializes in limited production Tuscan wines. The grapes are grown meticulously &
delicately processed to create wines of great distinction.
FEATURED WINE: 2004 Chianti Riserva DOCG
Made from 85% Sangiovese and 15% Merlot. All grapes were carefully hand-picked when their fragrance, sweetness and their skins'
polyphenol levels are just right. The vinification is carried out in wooden barrels and lasts between 7-12 days. Special care is
taken in soaking the skins, as it is a very delicate process. The wine is drawn by hand with the help of a soft vertical press;
careful attention is given to the product obtained during this step. The next step is fermentation which transforms the Chianti
into a harmonious and complete wine. The refinement period in wooden barrels is quite lengthy, as to create the perfect harmony
between the wine and wood. The color is ruby-red, lively and brilliant. Aroma is intense, fresh, lively and persistent,
reminiscent of the grape still on the vine. The taste is soft and balanced, with an enjoyable aftertaste that recalls all the
aromas of fermentation. The perfect food wine for all Italian fare. Drink now through 2012.
Ampelidae - France
Ampelidae was founded by Frederic Brochet in 1995. This unique winery is set up in a small village, Marigny-Brizay near
Poitiers in the western France. Marrying genius of modernity and talent of tradition, they produce, respecting the soil and the
specificities of their grape a range of wines and oils. Style and vitality are the key words of their production. The premium
wines are stamped Marigny-Neuf and their top selection, the super premium wines simply carry the word Ampelidae, which comes from
the Greek ampelos which means vine.
FEATURED WINE: 2007 Marigny-Neuf Pinot Noir
Made from 100% Pinot Noir grown in the Loire. This is a very good example of Pinot Noir at its best. Pale ruby in color with
subtle flavors of kirsch and nuts develop to reveal smoky, floral notes. Drink now through 2012. The wine is lovely served with
pan-fried veal, filet mignon of pork, perch in red wine sauce, or with a summer fruit salad.
Wither Hills - New Zealand
Wither Hills vineyard has a significant 300 hectares of superb viticultural land nestled in the heart of the region's Wairau
Valley. The Wairau Valley is the major grape growing area of Marlborough bordered by the landmark range of hills to the South -
the Wither Hills. The vineyards flourish in free draining, silty alluvial loam over deep stony river deposits, providing a near
perfect growing environment. Wither Hills is founded on the sincere belief that the finest wines are always created from
exceptional vineyards. The combination of winemaking and viticultural expertise is a powerful one that yields genuine rewards for
those who appreciate premium wines.
FEATURED WINE: 2008 Sauvignon Blanc Wairau Valley
Made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc. The wine shows benchmark characteristics; intense gooseberry, tomato leaf and capsicum characters
underpinned by the classically pungent melon, guava and passion fruit aromatics. The palate is extraordinarily balanced with
bright seamless acidity, concentration of brambly, mineral lemongrass flavors and a long supple finish. A wine of remarkable
intensity. Best consumed upon release, however the wine will continue to develop mouth filling fruit-driven flavors over the next
two to three years. Makes it a wonderful accompaniment to delectable seafood dishes such as poached scallops in a lime-scented
broth or pasta al dente topped with bacon, sundried tomatoes, parmesan and freshly torn basil.
Gaetano D'Aquino - Italy
With the purchase in 1987 of the Val De Brun di Refrontolo estate (40 hectares) situated in the heart of the wine growing areas
of Conegliano and Valodbbiadene, the D'Aquino family wanted to create a refined selection of wines and sparkling wines bringing it
to market with the trade name D'Aquino, bearing the same name as the Wine Firm. Today D'Aquino products are present in the most
exclusive restaurants, and are present on the markets of European countries and the U.S.A. To reach these objectives, the firm
collaborated with the most highly qualified experts, in particular with the wine expert Nereo Cavazzani.
FEATURED WINE: 2008 Pinot Grigio Delle Venezie IGT
Made from 100% Pinot Grigio. The wine has a delicate fruity bouquet with notes of field flowers. On the palate, it offers subtle
flavors of peaches and nectarines. Light-bodied, dry and elegant with a soft texture and a pleasing piquancy in the finish. Serve
chilled as an aperitif or with soups, light pasta dishes, poached sea bass in tomato, basil and garlic sauce and grilled
vegetables.
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Benson Ferry Vineyards - Acampo, California
Situated in the heart of California at the confluence of the Mokelumne and Cosumnes Rivers, Benson Ferry celebrates a rich
farming heritage. This family owned winery produces premium California varietals. Vineyard owners in Lodi for three generations,
the Stokes family selects fruits from prime estate & North Coast vineyards, for their delicious bottlings. Stokes Family Vineyard
represents a family tradition of great wine grapes three generations in the making. Bill Stokes, Sr. planted his first 45 acres
of Zinfandel near Lodi in 1954, and established additional vineyards during the next decade. Stokes Family Vineyard continues to
grow, and now encompasses more than 2,000 acres.
FEATURED WINE: 2006 Nine X Nine Old Vine Zinfandel Lodi
Nine x Nine pays homage to the Lodi region's historic, head-trained Zinfandel vines, which were planted with 9X9-foot spacing for
easy cultivation and optimal sun exposure. Fresh and flavorful, Nine x Nine Zinfandel shows the excellence of these old vines.
Full, forward aromas of black fruit, red fruit and smoke brim from the glass. Flavors are similarly full and forward; a mouth
filling melange of jammy blueberry and loganberry, accented by subtle cinnamon and nutmeg nuances. While big in flavor, the 2006
Nine x Nine shows polish on the palate, with supple texture and a deftly balanced, delicate finish. This wine is extremely
versatile, light enough to accompany any lunch fare, yet a perfect companion to pastas, roasts, steaks and cheeses.
Brassfield Estate Winery - Clearlake Oaks, California
Handcrafted from estate-grown grapes in the newly designated High Valley Appellation just north of Napa, Brassfield Estate
wines are quite simply taking the world by storm. Simply put, there is no other grape-growing site on Earth quite like High Valley
Appellation. This heavenly spot measures just a mile wide and five miles long, running east to west unlike other coastal valleys.
Yet High Valley's unique combination of volcanic and alluvial soils, paired with myriad microclimates, makes it one of the finest
spots in the world to cultivate premium-quality grapes
FEATURED WINE: 2004 Merlot High Serenity Ranch
Brassfield's twelve and a half acre block of merlot at High Serenity Ranch is planted on bench land in the western hills of High
Valley where the soils are known for their excellent drainage and low vigor potential. The addition of 10% Cabernet Franc and 4%
Petite Verdot add structure and complexity to this richly hued wine. Notes of black cherry, cola and cocoa dominate the nose while
cinnamon, plum and bay laurel lead the palate and subtler notes of vanilla, oak and soy add depth. A soft and fleshy mid-palate
leans to a lengthy, silken finish. Drink now through 2011.
David Hill Winery - Forest Grove, Oregon
With sweeping views of Oregon's coast range, David Hill Vineyards is one of the most picturesque wine venues in the Willamette
Valley. The Stoyanov's have owned the David Hill property since November 1992. They chose the name, David Hill, because they are
on David Hill (hill), and on David Hill Road. David Hill was a real person. Not only was the city of Hillsboro named for him, he
was also chairman of a three-person committee who first oversaw the territorial government of Oregon, in effect, and the first
governor of Oregon before it became a state.
FEATURED WINE: NV Farmhouse White
Made from an every changing blend of Semillon, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris and Sylvaner. Aromas of apricot and peach,
combined with notes of flowers waft from the swirling glass. The palate experiences the crispness of a freshly picked apple and a
bit of melon. A spicy note can be attributed to the Gewurztraminer, as well as the hint of sweetness. This wine is quite versatile
and will pair with everything from appetizers to shellfish and poultry dishes. Try it with a fresh baked apple pie.
Viansa Winery - Sonoma, California
Founded in 1989 by Sam and Vicki Sebastiani, Viansa Winery & Italian Marketplace is a destination winery in the Carneros
grape-growing region at the entrance to the Sonoma Valley Wine Country. Viansa was created as a way to share a love of good food,
wine and Italian heritage with visitors from around the world. Dedicated to the marriage of wine and food, Viansa truly offers
visitors a taste of Tuscany in Sonoma Valley. Today, the winery is proud to be the premier producer of Italian varietals in the
United States! Viansa's tile-roofed Tuscan Villa sits on a hilltop surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, overlooking Viansa's
90-acre waterfowl preserve, which has drawn acclaim from environmental groups across the nation. Outfitted with hand-painted
murals, massive beams and Italian marble, the villa exudes Tuscan charm. The extensive grounds are planted with Italian
cypresses and stone pines. Viansa boasts a line-up that includes wines made from well-known grapes such as Sangiovese and Pinot
Grigio along with lesser known varieties such as Arneis, Aleatico and Primitivo. They also offer an array of award-winning
California varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, as well as their own proprietary
blends.
FEATURED WINE: 2006 Reserve Chardonnay Napa Valley
Made from 100% Napa Valley Chardonnay and fermented in oak barrels, this award-winning wine is medium- to full-bodied and buttery
with a long, smooth, rich finish. On the nose look for fresh cut pears and vanilla. On the palate you will find tangerine, caramel
apple, toasty oak, and butter. This Napa Valley Reserve Chardonnay pairs beautifully with Roasted chicken with a lemon sauce,
pasta primavera, goat cheese and crab cakes. Drink now through 2010.
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Pavin & Riley - Washington
Pavin & Riley is the product of Washington wine visionary Andrew Browne. Browne founded his company, Precept Brands, in 2003
with one simple idea: make great wines from Washington State that are not only true to their varietal characteristics but also
that people can actually afford to drink. Pavin & Riley showcases all of the elements that make Washington wines so popular.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah (Shiraz), Chardonnay and Riesling are champion varieties, largely responsible for putting
Washington State on the map as one of the top growing regions in the world.
FEATURED WINE: 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley
Made from 88% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Cabernet Franc. Aromatic notes of roasted coffee, Bing cherries and raspberry jam fill
this rich Cabernet. Cherries and roasted coffee continue supported by firm structure and tannins with red currant on the finish.
The wine has an overall excellent quality. Enjoy now or lay it down for a few more years and enjoy it with beef tenderloin in red
wine sauce, roasted lamb and savory cured meat (such as Bresaola).
Brassfield Estate Winery - Clearlake Oaks, California
Handcrafted from estate-grown grapes in the newly designated High Valley Appellation just north of Napa, Brassfield Estate
wines are quite simply taking the world by storm. Simply put, there is no other grape-growing site on Earth quite like High Valley
Appellation. This heavenly spot measures just a mile wide and five miles long, running east to west unlike other coastal valleys.
Yet High Valley's unique combination of volcanic and alluvial soils, paired with myriad microclimates, makes it one of the finest
spots in the world to cultivate premium-quality grapes.
FEATURED WINE: 2004 Merlot High Serenity Ranch
Brassfield's twelve and a half acre block of merlot at High Serenity Ranch is planted on bench land in the western hills of High
Valley where the soils are known for their excellent drainage and low vigor potential. The addition of 10% Cabernet Franc and 4%
Petite Verdot add structure and complexity to this richly hued wine. Notes of black cherry, cola and cocoa dominate the nose while
cinnamon, plum and bay laurel lead the palate and subtler notes of vanilla, oak and soy add depth. A soft and fleshy mid-palate
leans to a lengthy, silken finish. Drink now through 2011.
Kilikanoon - Australia
Kilikanoon Wines is a boutique winery with an international reputation, located in the heart of South Australia's stunning
Clare Valley. Since 1997 and his first Clare Valley vintage, founder and winemaker Kevin Mitchell has produced wines of
individuality with strong regional and varietal definition. Clare Valley, Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and now Hermitage
terroir is all important, especially for their Shiraz, Riesling, Grenache and Cabernet single varietals. Just recently named by
Wine & Spirits Magazine as one of the top 100 wineries of the year. Other accolades include "This is one of the most
brilliantly run wineries in Australia" from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, who has regularly scored Kilikanoon's wines up to 98
points, and the coveted 5 red stars from James Halliday's authoritative Australian Wine Companion. These, as well as
international awards such as Best Shiraz (worldwide) at the 2008 International Wine Challenge for Kilikanoon's Oracle Shiraz and
the same award-(Best Shiraz) at the 2004 International Wine and Spirits Competition have made Kilikanoon a top Australian brand
in the world.
FEATURED WINE: 2005 Killerman's Run Shiraz
Made from 100% Premium Shiraz sourced various vineyards in South Australia. This bright, brick red wine carries ripe, bold and
lifted Shiraz notes on the nose along with rich plum fruits, coffee and chocolate supported by the French and American oak. The
palate is balanced and lengthened by the older oak flavors. A sweet mid palate, soft tannins and warmth of character have created
a wine with both power and finesse. Cellaring potential of at least 6 - 8 years (through 2012).
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Pavin & Riley - Washington
Pavin & Riley is the product of Washington wine visionary Andrew Browne. Browne founded his company, Precept Brands, in
2003 with one simple idea: make great wines from Washington State that are not only true to their varietal characteristics but
also that people can actually afford to drink. Pavin & Riley showcases all of the elements that make Washington wines so
popular. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah (Shiraz), Chardonnay and Riesling are champion varieties, largely responsible for
putting Washington State on the map as one of the top growing regions in the world.
FEATURED RED WINE: 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley
Made from 88% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Cabernet Franc. Aromatic notes of roasted coffee, Bing cherries and raspberry jam fill
this rich Cabernet. Cherries and roasted coffee continue supported by firm structure and tannins with red currant on the finish.
The wine has an overall excellent quality. Enjoy now or lay it down for a few more years and enjoy it with beef tenderloin in red
wine sauce, roasted lamb and savory cured meat (such as Bresaola).
Viansa Winery - Sonoma, California
Founded in 1989 by Sam and Vicki Sebastiani, Viansa Winery & Italian Marketplace is a destination winery in the Carneros
grape-growing region at the entrance to the Sonoma Valley Wine Country. Viansa was created as a way to share a love of good food,
wine and Italian heritage with visitors from around the world. Dedicated to the marriage of wine and food, Viansa truly offers
visitors a taste of Tuscany in Sonoma Valley. Today, the winery is proud to be the premier producer of Italian varietals in the
United States! Viansa's tile-roofed Tuscan Villa sits on a hilltop surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, overlooking Viansa's
90-acre waterfowl preserve, which has drawn acclaim from environmental groups across the nation. Outfitted with hand-painted
murals, massive beams and Italian marble, the villa exudes Tuscan charm. The extensive grounds are planted with Italian cypresses
and stone pines. Viansa boasts a line-up that includes wines made from well-known grapes such as Sangiovese and Pinot Grigio along
with lesser known varieties such as Arneis, Aleatico and Primitivo. They also offer an array of award-winning California
varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, as well as their own proprietary blends.
FEATURED WHITE WINE: 2006 Reserve Chardonnay Napa Valley
Made from 100% Napa Valley Chardonnay and fermented in oak barrels, this award-winning wine is medium- to full-bodied and buttery
with a long, smooth, rich finish. On the nose look for fresh cut pears and vanilla. On the palate you will find tangerine, caramel
apple, toasty oak, and butter. This Napa Valley Reserve Chardonnay pairs beautifully with Roasted chicken with a lemon sauce,
pasta primavera, goat cheese and crab cakes. Drink now through 2010.
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Kilikanoon - Australia
Kilikanoon Wines is a boutique winery with an international reputation, located in the heart of South Australia's stunning
Clare Valley. Since 1997 and his first Clare Valley vintage, founder and winemaker Kevin Mitchell has produced wines of
individuality with strong regional and varietal definition. Clare Valley, Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and now Hermitage
terroir is all important, especially for their Shiraz, Riesling, Grenache and Cabernet single varietals. Just recently named by
Wine & Spirits Magazine as one of the top 100 wineries of the year. Other accolades include "This is one of the most
brilliantly run wineries in Australia" from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, who has regularly scored Kilikanoon's wines up to 98
points, and the coveted 5 red stars from James Halliday's authoritative Australian Wine Companion. These, as well as
international awards such as Best Shiraz (worldwide) at the 2008 International Wine Challenge for Kilikanoon's Oracle Shiraz and
the same award-(Best Shiraz) at the 2004 International Wine and Spirits Competition have made Kilikanoon a top Australian brand
in the world.
FEATURED WINE: 2005 Killerman's Run Shiraz
Made from 100% Premium Shiraz sourced various vineyards in South Australia. This bright, brick red wine carries ripe, bold and
lifted Shiraz notes on the nose along with rich plum fruits, coffee and chocolate supported by the French and American oak. The
palate is balanced and lengthened by the older oak flavors. A sweet mid palate, soft tannins and warmth of character have created
a wine with both power and finesse. Cellaring potential of at least 6 - 8 years (through 2012).
Terre del Marchesato - Italy
Located near the famous town of Bolgheri on the Maremma Coast, Terre del Marchesato is decidedly the smallest of the zone's 37
estates and is lead by owner and winemaker Maurizio Fuselli. In 1954, Maurizio's grandfather had just migrated from the Marche
region with several other farmers in search of an area less ravaged by war. At the time, no one knew how valuable and esteemed
the area would become over time, and Emilio Fuselli was able to purchase 10 hectares of land from the same Marquis (Incisa della
Rocchetta) who would go on to create the wines of Sassicaia (the two estates are neighbors). In honor of his grandfather,
Maurizio named their first wine after him: 'Emilio Primo'. Amazingly, and despite the stunning quality of their wines, the Fuselli
family had never bottled their own wine until three years ago, selling only to local restaurants that came to buy wine in small
casks. Maurizio himself worked at Guado al Tasso for ten years, then quit and rebuilt his own cellar in 2003. Today, the whole
family helps out, which is why Signor Fuselli insisted that everyone (even their three sons) appear in the photo on the back of
their labels.
FEATURED WINE: 2006 Emilio Primo Vendemmia Toscana
From the Tuscan zone of Bolgheri, ground-zero for Super Tuscans, comes this ultra-appealing baby Super-T made entirely from
French-origin varietals, like its zonal cousins, Sassicaia and Ornellaia. Made from 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 20%
Syrah, enologist Fabrizio Moltard displays his trademark "sweet tannins" with this wine, and achieves the smoky fruit and dusty
plums seemingly achievable so effortlessly only in the Maremma. Perfect with wild game and will drink well through 2012.
Viansa Winery - Sonoma, California
Founded in 1989 by Sam and Vicki Sebastiani, Viansa Winery & Italian Marketplace is a destination winery in the Carneros
grape-growing region at the entrance to the Sonoma Valley Wine Country. Viansa was created as a way to share a love of good food,
wine and Italian heritage with visitors from around the world. Dedicated to the marriage of wine and food, Viansa truly offers
visitors a taste of Tuscany in Sonoma Valley. Today, the winery is proud to be the premier producer of Italian varietals in the
United States! Viansa's tile-roofed Tuscan Villa sits on a hilltop surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, overlooking Viansa's
90-acre waterfowl preserve, which has drawn acclaim from environmental groups across the nation. Outfitted with hand-painted
murals, massive beams and Italian marble, the villa exudes Tuscan charm. The extensive grounds are planted with Italian cypresses
and stone pines. Viansa boasts a line-up that includes wines made from well-known grapes such as Sangiovese and Pinot Grigio along
with lesser known varieties such as Arneis, Aleatico and Primitivo. They also offer an array of award-winning California
varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, as well as their own proprietary blends.
FEATURED WINE: 2006 Reserve Chardonnay Napa Valley
Made from 100% Napa Valley Chardonnay and fermented in oak barrels, this award-winning wine is medium- to full-bodied and buttery
with a long, smooth, rich finish. On the nose look for fresh cut pears and vanilla. On the palate you will find tangerine,
caramel apple, toasty oak, and butter. This Napa Valley Reserve Chardonnay pairs beautifully with Roasted chicken with a lemon
sauce, pasta primavera, goat cheese and crab cakes. Drink now through 2010.
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Marco & Vittorio Adriano - Italy
The "Azienda Agricola Adriano Marco e Vittorio" farm is a family-run company, situated in the heart of the prestigious Langhe
hills and produces its wines exclusively from its own grapes. At the beginning of the twentieth-century, Giuseppe, the
grandfather, who was share-farmer, started his activity of growing grapes. Later on, he purchased a small farm and together with
his son Aldo, expanded the family property planting new vines. From that moment on, the activity has grown gradually even thanks
to the involvement of his two grandsons, Marco & Vittorio. They introduced some significant changes such as the wine-making
and the bottling of their own production and established the new Azienda Agricola Adriano Marco e Vittorio. All the works in the
vineyards, are entirely made by the members of the family, with great respect to the ecological standards, to obtain a genuine
product for the consumers.
FEATURED WINE: 2004 Basarin Barbaresco DOCG
Made from 100% Nebbiolo grown on the sunny, south facing hills of Neive. The color is a garnet red, with traces of orange that
become more evident over the years. The bouquet is of fresh fruit in the first months which evolves during its evolution, from a
universe of spices with vanilla scent, violet and wild rose. It has a typical dry flavor and gentle robustness which reveals
consistency and extraordinary aristocracy. A great match for red meat dishes, game and seasoned cheeses. This wine is best after
2010, but can be drunk now with decanting. With proper cellaring, the wine will evolve through 2015. 91 Points Wine Spectator.
Mount Veeder Winery - St. Helena, California
Michael and Arlene Bernstein discovered the rugged Mayacamas Mountain property that became Mount Veeder in the early '60s. In
1964, the newlyweds spotted a Wall Street Journal ad for a 40-acre prune farm on Napa Valley's Mount Veeder. Michael left his job
at the Federal Trade Commission in San Francisco, the young couple bought the property, and took up residence in a rustic cottage
amid the prune trees on the mountain. One day, a farmhand came to Michael with a bundle of cast-off cuttings. Knowing very little
about grape growing, Michael planted the cuttings into the ground on Memorial Day, 1965. He had heard that dry-farmed vines
produced better grapes, so Michael never watered the vines, and 58 of the 60 cuttings survived. Michael's interest in grape
growing blossomed and he began studying viticulture and researching what varieties to plant, ultimately becoming the first
vintner in Napa Valley to plant one property to all five of the Bordeaux varietals. They feel that blending is the key to
crafting the most complete, balanced wine and enhancing the inherent characteristics of each variety. The ultimate goal is the
creation of a rich, seamless wine.
FEATURED WINE: 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
This Cabernet Sauvignon is filled with mountain character, big, bold and brambly. They blend fruit from our Mount Veeder ranches
with other small lots of rich, intense Napa Valley grapes to create a powerful and complex wine with fine tannins and the
potential to age. Deep garnet in color. Vibrant layers of brambly dark berry, cassis, bay and mocha. Rich and concentrated with
flavors of blackberry, dark cherry, chocolate and cassis. Good structure and well-balanced, with fine-grained tannins and a long
finish of cassis and sweet vanilla notes. Drink now through 2016. 90 Points Wine Enthusiast
Cliff Lede Vineyards - Yountville, California
Owner Cliff Lede, viticulturalist David Abreu, Winemaker Michelle Edwards, and consultant Michel Rolland have come together to
form an unrivalled team, making the most of this remarkable property. Completed in time for crush 2005, the new state-of-the-art
gravity-flow winery boasts a berry-by-berry sorting system and conical tanks commissioned using a design inspired by the tanks of
Chateau Latour. One tank per vineyard block ensures each lot evolves at its own pace and acres of caves with single-layer barrel
storage ensure access to each barrel at all times. No corner has been cut. The winery produces Sauvignon Blanc, Claret and
Cabernet Sauvignon. The flagship, Poetry Cabernet Sauvignon, is crafted from the steep hillside portion of the estate. The land,
the talent, the tools and the passion: Cliff Lede Vineyards, a notable addition to the Stags Leap District.
FEATURED WINE: 2008 Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley
Made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc. The 2008 displays aromas of Kaffir lime, iris, passion fruit, tarragon, citrus, white pepper,
framboise, toasted almond, and freesia. With a poignant mouth defined by good glycerol weight, flavors of lemon meringue,
honeysuckle, brioche and guava flow over the palate with a finish reminiscent of desert wildflowers and dry land honey. Drink now
through 2012. 90 Points Wine Spectator.
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Retour Wine Company - Carlton, Oregon
re.tour v. the French term for going back or returning home - a journey back to the roots, a homecoming that endures.
One Vision. One Wine. Retour was founded upon a dream of crafting a Pinot Noir of distinction from the Willamette Valley, a wine
that achieves the elusive balance between expression and elegance, a wine that resonates with a spirit of place. Retour's guiding
philosophy consists of working with a tapestry of some of the oldest and most precious vineyards in the Willamette Valley and
partnering with Eric Hamacher, an artisan who has proven dedication to minimalist and natural winemaking practices. Some consider
this approach to winegrowing Burgundian; we consider it the only true way to make wine that reveals itself and the place where it
is grown. This is their passion: to offer you a wine that matters, a wine that - if you listen carefully - will show you the road
home.
FEATURED WINE: 2006 Pinot Noir Willamette Valley
Made from 100% Pinot Noir. An initial perfume of lavender, fragrant lilacs and just-plucked cherries mingle with complexities of
fresh roasted hazelnuts, black pepper and forest floor. Aeration reveals glorious aromas of exotic spices, anise, blackberry
blossoms and a hint of confection. The explosive palate leads with bright raspberries, lush black fruits and tangerine peel. The
succulent mouthfeel has impressive weight and texture that drapes easily over its eloquent structure. Fine tannins coalesce with
underlying minerality that leads to a long and seductive finish. Over time the wine is persistent in its evolution towards greater
complexity. Please cellar the wine at 55 degrees F. We suggest decanting for at least 1-2 hours prior to consuming. With aeration,
this evocative wine will become more expressive, unveiling its charming personality. Drink now through 2016. 600 cases made. 92
Points Stephen Tanzer. 92 Points Wine Spectator.
Hartwell Estate - Napa, California
After thoroughly evaluating every wine region in California, Hartwell concluded there was no better place for the style of wine
they wanted to make than Napa Valley's Stags Leap appellation. The ten million year old Vaca Volcanic Mountain Range on the
eastern border of the appellation absorbs the morning sun and reflects the afternoon rays back onto our hillside vineyards below.
During the day, the maximum exposure to sunshine helps our vines ripen more efficiently than those growing down on the flat valley
floor. At night, the San Francisco Bay marine layer rolls in to cool the vineyards, effectively putting the vines to sleep by
slowing the ripening process. Together, the hilly terrain and temperature fluctuations create the optimum growing conditions that
define the greater Stags Leap micro-climate. This regulates the ripening process like environmental clockwork, and helps enhance
the fruity characteristics that result from the right balance of acid and sugar. The result is some of the finest Cabernet
Sauvignon in California. This wine is produced from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Merlot is also grown, produced and bottled on
the Hartwell Estate. Bob and Blanca Hartwell believe that if you grow the best grapes you will make the best wine.
FEATURED WINE: 2005 Miste Hill Cabernet Sauvignon
Miste Hill is a wine that shows the softer side of the Hartwell Estate. As with all of their wines, the grapes come exclusively
from their hillside estate. During the aging process, they make a selection of those barrels that show brightness of fruit, soft
tannins, and approachability. The wine is blended, racked, and bottled without fining or filtration. The goal is to create a wine
that can be opened and enjoyed immediately upon release. The 2005 Miste Hill wine is rich, but well-balanced, fully ripe but with
great varietal definition, and tannins that will help the wine to age for many years to come. They were able to ferment the wines
with no adjustments in terms of brix or acidity, which means the wine is a true reflection of the vintage. Drink now through
2013. 1,100 cases made. 93 Points Wine Spectator.
JM Cellars - Woodinville, Washington
Some people travel to Europe or prepare for a marathon when they turn 40. John and Peggy Bigelow started a winery. In 1997,
John began studying winemaking. He took courses at UC Davis and read every technical manual he could find. By the fall of 1998,
the Bigelows had converted the basement of their Seattle home into a winery where they fermented and aged 100 cases of wine for
their own enjoyment. Building on the lessons learned over the previous vintage, JM Cellars officially debuted with 350 cases of
1999 Tre Fanciulli. With the goal of slowly increasing production to 2,000 cases, John moved to Walla Walla for the 2000 harvest
and the opportunity to work in the vineyards and along side such acclaimed winemakers as Charlie Hoppes and Mike Januik. That
experience gave the Bigelows the confidence they needed to make their next move, a winery of their own on a beautiful Woodinville
hillside known as "Bramble Bump," and the rest, as they say, is "history."
FEATURED WINE: 2008 Chardonnay Columbia Valley
On each of their two previous vintages of Chardonnay, JM Cellars had the good fortune of receiving 93 points from Wine Enthusiast
Magazine. While they loved those wines, the 2008 vintage just might be their best to date. For the 2008 vintage of JM Chardonnay
they sourced fruit from a very special site in the Yakima Valley; Lewis Vineyard. Blended with exceptional Chardonnay from Conner
Lee Vineyard, this vintage of JM Chardonnay shows slightly more "minerality" than in past vintages. As a fan of Burgundian style
Chardonnay, this wine most closely illustrates the style and flavors John strives for. A near-perfect mix of citrus and stone,
kissed with honey and dust, lightly buttery. Aged on 15% new French oak, only 282 cases were produced. This wine has not been
rated.
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Juve y Camps - Spain
Juve is a surname deep rooted in the Penedes region. In these lands, so suitable for the cultivation of the vine, the Juve
family have dedicated themselves to viticulture for centuries. Love of the vine, unceasing work to produce the best grapes,
continual research to draw from the raw material all its beauty and harmony, this has always been the prime objective of the
Juves. Juve & Camps is the expression of a privileged land, the Penedes, of dedication to viticulture, a hundred year activity
over three generations which has now achieved an international reputation for the family run company.
FEATURED WINE: 2005 Brut Vintage Reserva
This Cava of great personality owes its character to a harmonious blend of classic, indigenous grape varieties. It is produced
from the free run juice of Macabeu, Xarel-lo and Parellada grapes coming from their Espiells, Can Massana and La Cuscona estates.
The nose is generous, fruity and elegant, rich and complex from the long ageing in bottle. On the palate it is quite dry, soft
and round with a long and most exquisite finish. The perfect aperitif or pair with seafood.
Blue Mountain Vineyards & Cellars - Spokane, Washington
Making complex wines of international caliber that are consistent in style and quality from year to year is the foundation of
Blue Mountain. The grapes that are harvested for Blue Mountain wines are sourced solely from its own vineyard. A philosophy of
sustainable land management ensures limited chemical input. Using classic varietals which originate in France in growing
conditions like our own, we limit our crop yields resulting in higher concentration of the fruit. In the winery, winemakers Matt
and Ian Mavety combine new technology with traditional techniques. The wines are handled minimally to ensure that the delicacy
and intensity of flavors cultivated in the vineyard are expressed in the wine. French oak barrels are used in the cellar to
soften and add complexity. All of these factors combine to result in a style and finesse fitting to the varietals.
FEATURED WINE: Couples Cuvee Non Vintage Brut
Blue Mountain sparkling wines are methode traditionnelle, meaning the traditional techniques for making French Champagne are
employed faithfully. Finished dry, these wines are aged sur-lie for two-and-a-half to five years prior to being disgorged. They
then receive an additional 6 to 9 months of aging preceding release. This Brut is made from 65% Pinot Noir and 35% Chardonnay,
a blend of two vintages. The result is a sparkling wine that is fresh and crisp, with delicate notes of citrus. It is a clean,
uncomplicated sparkling wine that is quite delicious. This brut is perfect to refresh the palate when eating salty, creamy, or
nutty foods such as Caesar salad, fried calamari, oysters, or fresh sashimi and sushi.
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