Friday Night Wines

Wine & Psyche - Sept. 18, 2011

2011-09-09T12:51:00.000-07:00

Celebrate the transformation of the grape to wine with the fall colors of Celestina Vineyard and owner, grower, John Pratt. Wine & Psyche will be an evening of community gathering, creative expression, five wine tastings and food pairings. Enjoy body poetry from Yahya Suzanna Nadler, flamenco guitar from Grant Ruiz, and symbology/mythology tales from Rod Birney MD.

For more information or to reserve a spot, contact the Self & Soul Center, in Talent, OR.

Wine & Psyche continued...

2011-07-29T16:40:00.000-07:00

The custom of toasting to someone’s health, clinking glasses together is rich in symbolic meaning. First of all, wine has the property, in low doses, of dissolving the worries and anxieties of life, of creating a better condition for concentration.

Read more at: http://selfsoulcenter.org

For information on attending the next Wine & Psyche event, please visit the link above and contact the Self & Soul Center to be added to their mailing list.

Wines of Greece

2011-04-29T15:00:00.000-07:00

Greece is one of the oldest wine-making regions in the world.

"In ancient times, Greece played a crucial role in the development of the wine culture of Europe. Nearly two thousand years of foreign occupation took a toll on her fortunes, yet many of Greece's rich viticultural resources remain intact." - http://www.greekwinemakers.com

Wine Regions of Greece
from: allaboutgreekwine.com

Though historically well-known for "Retsina," a pine-resinated white wine, Greece does have a wide assortment of growing regions, and therefore a much wider selection of aromas than just the retsina. Below are a few recent tastes, enjoyed with our good friends at the Self and Soul Center during their "Wine & Psyche" gathering. Read more about the event here.

2008 Gentilini Robola (CEPHALONIA ISLAND-Ionian Sea)
Cephalonia is known particularly for the powerful dry white white wine Robola which is lemony dry with high acidity and extract from ungrafted rootstock on Mt Ainos.

2010 Skouras Moscofilero (PELOPONESE-Big Southern Island)
Deep pink skinned grapes used to make strongly perfumed white wine particularly on the high plateau of Mantina. It's name, like that of Vespaiolo in Italy indicates the extent to which insects are drawn to these grapes which are Muscat like in character.

2009 Mitravelas Nemea Red on Black
20 year old bush vine Aghiorghitiko also known as St Georges from the hills of Nemea with low crop production, no oak influence, soft tannins and soft filtration. Velvety red wine with red fruits, black pepper, cocoa and sour cherry in the nose.

2007 Argyos Estate Atlantis Red (SANTORINI-Small Southern Island)
90% Mandilaria and 10% Mavrotragano. Strong winds are characteristic of Santorini and rainfall is low on this volcanic island. The wine is well structured with backbone and focus, grapey, fruity, silky and graceful.

2006 Alpha Estate Xinomavro (MACEDONIA-Northern Greece)
100% Xinomavro from high altitude vineyards in Amyndeo producing dark color, plum and blackberry aroma with high acidity and sweet fruit from the single Hedgehog Vineyard with northern exposure.

2006 Tatsis Angels Peak Red
This blend is called Goumenissa with Xinomavro and Negoska from the most northern wine region in Greece. Botanical character in the nose, rich and well built with black pepper and burnt nuts and vivid finish of coffee and tobacco.

These wines are distributed by DOMAINE SELECTIONS.

Southern Oregon's Finest

2011-03-11T02:55:00.000-08:00

Throughout the vast region of Southern Oregon, there is a creative spirit that fuels and inspires not only the artists of the Rogue Valley, but also the agriculturalists such as the valley's premier winemakers. Below are a few of the stand-out wines that Southern Oregon has to offer.

Eden Vale MidSummer's Cuvee 2007
This wine brings out the best in each of the varietals represented; Chardonnay for body, Pinot Gris for crispness and Viognier for a wonderful nose and finish. A great sipping wine for spring and summer.

Devitt Chardonnay 2006
Layne Vineyards is the source of these grapes. They whole-cluster-pressed the grape juice into small oak casks for fermentation. This wine is heavy bodied, with tropical fruit flavors and a hint of oak. The wine is un-fined and un-filtered and will throw a sediment in the bottle with time.

The Academy Pinot Noir 2005
From their Applegate vineyard and winery, Betty and Barney Smith grow and produce this exceptional Pinot Noir…although not what you might expect. The wine is dark, juicy and extracted, showing tons of berry upfront. It finishes long and clean and will pair with a wide range of grilled meats or poultry.

Abacela Merlot 2007
A cool ripening period preserved the grapes’ natural acidity and delicate aromas. You’ll find deep ripe currant, blackberry, and slightly jammy blueberry aromas with herbal, spice, and toasty hints. This wine will age gracefully over the next three to five years and be ideal with pan roasted pork medallions and herbed compound butter.

Valley View Syrah 2005
Syrah is Southern Oregon's Pinot Noir: a grape that always shows terrior (the soils and area where it is grown) and the specifics variation of that vintage. The 2003 vintage was perfect for a "Rhone" style Syrah. Generally this means that this wine is more balanced and less "jammy," more Earthy, meaty flavors and the fruit is not as sweet. This is a serious wine that is destined to win you over.

Velo Red Wine 2008
The name is a nod to the bicycle Gus uses to make his frequent vineyard rounds. Plummy garnet color with lively reflection, pink rim. Bright, sophisticated aromas of plum-skin and black cherry play off the perfume of fresh raspberries, with notes of cocoa, vanilla bean and baking spices. Generous in themouth as the flavor fans across the palate: dark, rich and smooth. Finishes full of lively fruit with a food-friendly structure and balance that invites another sip.

Southern Oregon Wine Country

2011-03-11T02:46:00.001-08:00

The Southern Oregon AVA exists in the southwest portion of the state, stretching 125 miles from south of Eugene to the California border, and 60 miles at its widest between the Cascade Mountain Range to the east and the Coast Range to the west. It encompasses Umpqua Valley, Rogue Valley, Red Hill Douglas County, and Applegate Valley appellations.

Southern Oregon has the oldest history of grape growing in the state. It dates back to 1852 with an early area settler named Peter Britt, who operated a winery in Jacksonville. Post-prohibition winemaking started in 1961 when vintner Richard Sommers migrated from University of California at Davis and founded Hillcrest Vineyards in the Umpqua Valley. Impressed with the diversity of growing conditions in this area, other winemakers began planting roots in the 1970s, resulting in a patchwork of vineyards growing both cool- and warm-climate varieties. Today, this winegrowing region continues to grow and turn out a great variety of high-quality wines. The appellation became official in 2004.

Throughout the vast region of Southern Oregon, there is a creative spirit that spreads beyond incredible winemaking. There is a thriving arts community that includes galleries, museums and a pair of award-winning festivals celebrating music and art: The Britt Festival in Jacksonville and The Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland. The area is ripe with culinary endeavors, from artisan chocolate making (and the Ashland Chocolate Festival), to chef-owned restaurants serving wine-friendly food that highlights the area's bounty, including line-caught salmon, winter pears and award-winning cheeses. Southern Oregon is also home to North America's deepest lake, Crater Lake, Oregon Caves National Monument, mountains to ski and hike, beautiful public courses to golf, wilderness to explore and legendary rivers to fish and raft.

Wines for Valentines

2011-02-11T00:56:00.000-08:00

Adriano Garbel Adami Prosecco – Italy

Moderately fine, persistent, and frothy. Lovely, elegant scents of green apples, white wildflowers, minerals, and glazed almonds. The palate is dry but still generous with flavors of yellow cherries and tropical fruits, and a very long finish. Excellent way to start off the evening with your valentine.

Sables D’Azur Rosé 2007 – France

Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault are blended to make up this lovely rosé. There's lots of cherry and melon flavors in this tutti-frutti rosé. Best served as an aperitif or accompanying grilled fish with Provencal vegetables such as legumes. A vibrant treat to share with a loved one.

Friends Red 2006 – Sonoma County

Winemakers and friends of Pedroncelli Winery often recall the days when founder Giovanni Pedroncelli welcomed them to the cellar. They shared stories over a smooth drinking glass of red wine. More important than the varietal were the friendships. In honor of this tradition, they’ve created this blend to share with their friends and yours. A smooth, food-friendly blend of Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Franc.

Wind River Tempranillo 2006 – Washington

As one of the early Washington State producers of Tempranillo, Wind River Cellars has gained great notoriety for producing award winning wines from this lavish Spanish variety. Dark earthy tones of cherry and blackberry allow this bold wine to accompany hearty dishes.

Volcano Vineyards – Rogue Valley

Southern Oregon has emerged as a spectacular wine-growing region. This Southern Oregon wine earned a gold medal in 2008 at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. It’s 75% Merlot (2005), blended with 23% Syrah and 2% Viognier (both 2006). Lush and elegant with bold dark fruit flavors, a firm, food friendly backbone, and a luscious finish. It is delicious!

Rosa Regale Banfi Sparking Dolce Red 2007 – Italy

Deep medium cranberry. Attractive, with aromas of cherry and rose petals. Soft, mildly spritzy and creamy on the palate with soft mouth feel and ripe cherry compote fruit flavors. Good balance with low alcohol, good acidity and a dry finish. Ideal as a delicate aperitif or an elegant dessert wine. It enhances the flavor of chocolate. A classy, romantic wine!

Wines by the Fireside

2011-01-28T01:04:00.000-08:00

Dynamite Zinfandel

This is a clear violet colored wine with some structure of medium depth. Your nose can pick up some definite black currant or cherry top notes with some spice and pepper under tones. Swirl the wine and enjoy the ripe, dark fruit aromas. Then savor the myriad of flavors as the wine expands across your palate.

Friends. Red 2006 Red Wine

From our friends at Pedroncelli Winery, this bottle will help bring up old stories to tell around the fireplace. A nice blend of Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, and Zinfandel to toast at any fire. And if you're in a spicier mood, there's our next featured wine...

Bitch Grenache 2007- Australia

Bitch, a provocatively named 100% Grenache, yields from the 25-year-old vines grown in sand over clay in modest amounts, 3 to 5 tons an acre. Ripe quince and lifted spice with a juicy concentration come from the sandy loam soil, and berry characters from the red-brown soils. Life may be a bitch, but this wine will keep the complaints away, at least while you're drinking it!

Lot 205 Petite Syrah

The wine's rich, inky vermilion color is the first indicator of its fine density. Its aromas are keynoted on fruit -- blackberry, grape, and juicy cherry -- backed by notes of anise, coffee bean and toffee. On the palate, it is forward and lush, with an especially ripe fruit impression. It is the perfect match for any easygoing, hearty cooking, such as pizza, meat pastas, barbeque, or deli meats. This wine is user friendly enough to even enjoy on its own.

Cartlidge & Brown 2005 Zinfandel- California

With aromas of tropical fruit and pear, the palate is softened by a creamy quality enhanced by the spicy oak. Cartlidge and Brown carefully source grapes from vineyards throughout the state of CA to craft their smooth pleasurable wines. Pairs nicely with white meat dishes.

14 Hands Merlot—Washington State

14 Hands Merlot exhibits classic Washington aromas of blackberries and dark stone fruits. Blackberries repeated on the palate and joined by touches of cherries and spice. While soft and luxurious in the mouth, this wine has a firm backbone of tannins. 78.5% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2.5% Cabernet Franc.

Finca Antigua 2005 Tempernillo - Spain

Intense cherry red color with elegant violet tones. Fine aroma. This is an elegant wine with nuances of black and red fruit and balsamic depths which reflect its slight aging. This wine is deliciously well bodied and the wood aging endows pleasant tannins which leave a good aftertaste in the mouth.

Resolution Reds

2010-12-31T01:37:00.000-08:00

Don't hit that vino too hard, or you're resolve just might slow you down this coming new year.

Tablas Creek ’05 Roussanne- Paso RoblesThis 2005 Roussanne is Tablas Creek's fourth national release of its 100% Roussanne. The wine is exuberantly and elegantly in character of the Roussanne grape, with honey, honeysuckle, and pear aromatics, lemon zest flavors, moderate acidity a rich, viscous mouth feel with just a hint of oak, and a long, lingering finish.

The Crusher Viognier 2007This pale straw colored wine bears a slight glint of steely blue. Intense aromas of jasmine and clove unfold with hints of apricot and peach. The palate has a luscious, nectar like texture, abundant with apricot grit and sweet white peach flavors, and a finish of star anise, vanilla and juicy Bartlett pear.

Tablas Creek Cotes de Tablas Blanc 2007Four estate-grown white varietals of Viognier, Roussanne, Marsanne, and Grenache Blanc blend in this style of French Cotes du Rhone white. It features intense aromas of stone fruits and minerals, flavors of apricot and Provençal herbs, rich texture, moderate acidity and a long peachy finish.

Cline ’06 Mourvedre Ancient Vines- Contra Costa CountyMourvedre is an exotic grape found in the Rhone and Provence regions of France, Spain and Australia. Once widely planted in California (where it is often called Mataro), today only a tiny amount exists and Cline owns many of the historic ancient vines that remain. Wild and grapey, showing zesty cherry and berry fruits, smooth in texture, with chocolate and a hint of oak, this juicy Ancient Vines Mourvedre is delicious now and will age well.

Estancia ’05 Shiraz- Central CoastFruit from two different regions work together to make this Central Coast Shiraz. They chose cool climate Monterey grapes for the exceptional texture they provide and Paso Robles grapes for their rich and spicy berry characters. Deep garnet in color; aromas of dark berries and plum open, followed by bright red plums, berries and earth. The palate is filled with dark ripe fruits, smoke and black pepper. 76% Shiraz, 18% Petite Sirah, 4% Grenache, 2% Mourvedre. This vibrant and delicious Shiraz (Syrah) is an approachable, pleasing wine.

European Holiday Traditions

2010-12-24T03:34:00.000-08:00

Mosellan Ars Vitis Riesling – Germany
Fruity bouquet, peach and lemon aroma on the palate. Smells crisp and like citrus. Semi-sweet with lemon notes and a quick finish. Ideal for drinking with seafood. Serve well chilled.

Mas de la Garrigue 2005-France
Mas de la Garrigue is light bodied blend of Carignan,Grenache Noir,Syrah. From Cotes du Roussillon Villages, Jean-Paul Henriques bought the Mas de la Garrigue estate in 1989, and today with his son, Cyril, they continue to redevelop the vineyard in an area that commands one of Roussillon’s highest points.

Herbert Pazen’06 Riesling – Germany
The fresh and balanced taste profile of this Riesling is achieved by carefully selecting grapes from vineyards throughout the Mosel. The steep blue slate slopes of the Lower Mosel give the wine its minerality while the middle Mosel provides a hint of spiciness to complement the characteristic fresh peach flavors of the Upper Mosel. Pairs with spicy foods, sushi, fish, poultry and pork. Also compliments sweet or full-bodied cheeses and fruit desserts

Steininger Grand Gru Gruner Veltliner – Austria
The grape Gruner Veltliner may be Austria’s truest contribution to the wine world. This wine was named after the architect who designed the Loisium (a sort of wine museum for the town of Langenlois), and showcases everything Austrian wines can be; dry, complex, food worthy, and downright exciting. Golden yellow color, with extraordinary rich nuances of spice, peaces and pears.

Corte Giara ’06 Pinot Grigio – Italy
This wine is made from 100% Pinot Grigio and is bright straw yellow in color with a fresh floral bouquet reminiscent of acacia flowers. Fresh and well-balanced with good depth and a long, attractive finish. Recommended with shellfish, paella, chicken salad, pasta and other light fare.

Jean-Luc Colombo ’05 Cotes du Rhône – France
“2005 Jean-Luc Colombo Les Abeilles Cotes du Rhône is a star. Its aroma is potent, with lots of black fruit along with earth, spice and a meaty note. It's just delicious to drink, with a flood of blackberry and black currant, some earthy notes, spice that intensifies on the mid-palate, a medium body and tannins that announce their presence but are not overwhelming.” -The San Francisco Chronicle

Campos Reales ’07 Tempranillo – Spain
“Bright purple. Primary dark berry aromas are complemented by licorice and dark chocolate. Straightforward and a bit youthfully grapey, with sweet blackberry and cassis flavors, supple texture and a late candied floral quality. This became firmer with air but is in no way hard. Very easy to drink and a ridiculous value. 88 Points." -Stephen Tanzer, The International Wine Cellar

Dow’s ’92 Colheita Port – Portugal
Dow’s 1992 Colheita has a bright tawny color with an amber rim. On the nose sweet aromas of crystallized fruits combined with subtle vanilla notes from the cask aging. On the palate very fresh and lively with excellent nutty flavors and a long finish.

Wines for Thanksgiving

2010-11-19T02:21:00.000-08:00

Salmon Creek Chardonnay—California
A lush and smooth California chardonnay, easy to drink and easy to pair with food. Soft tones of vanilla and pineapple, with mellow acidity. Great with mild, soft cheeses and pairs well with lighter poultry dishes.

Cousino Macul Dona Isadora Riesling

A dry Riesling with attractive depth of flavor and refreshing acidity, this harmonious wine is a fine example of this classic varietal. Delicate aromas of flowers and honey and pleasant complexity on the palate combine to offer a perfect match for seafood, sushi and shellfish.

Bodega LAN ’05 Crianza

“Light scents of crushed rose petals and frisky cherry tomato flavors give this a bright, zesty tone. The tannins are also light, with a gravelly feel. This is a versatile red for olives and jamon Serrano, or more substantial meats such as duck. 90 Points.” - Wine & Spirits

14 Hands Washington State Merlot

Bergstrom “O” Pinot Noir—Willamette Valley

Grown entirely in the Northern Willamette Valley, this is a blend of fruit forward Pinot Noir barrels from the 2007 and 2006 vintages. This lovely wine showcases aromas of violets and cherry/anise pastille candies with a bright and fruit-driven mouth-feel with great balance. The Bergström Ö Pinot Noir is a succulent early-drinking wine with a palate of ripe red and dark fruits and spices. This should drink very well with a wide range of food dishes.

Jonesy Port

“What a sensational value! Made by Trevor Jones in partnership with importer Dan Philips, this is a blend averaging 46 years in age. Its light to medium ruby hue is accompanied by an extraordinary bouquet of sweet candied fruit intermixed with notions of maple syrup, earth, and hazelnuts. This gorgeous tawny delivers plenty of pleasure. 93 Points.” - Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

The Bounty of Oregon

2010-11-12T02:11:00.000-08:00

Pebblestone ’07 Viognier

Pebblestone’s 2007 Viognier represents the inaugural release of this variety with a limited bottling of 115 cases. The grapes used in this wine come from the Geneva clone of Viognier which produces a highly aromatic wine with floral aromas. These aromas are complemented by a rich, full texture with flavors of peaches and apricots, balanced with moderate acidity. Silver Medal, 2008 World Of Wine.

South Stage Cellars ’07 Sauvignon Blanc

This Sauvignon Blanc from South Stage cellars, located in Jacksonville, is part of a small production of estate grown wine. An Elegant wine with a fresh nose, light body and citrus undertones. Subtly steely.

A to Z ’07 Pinot Noir

The 2007 A to Z Pinot Noir is true to variety and vintage with bold aromatics and a palate to please. This wine has moderately-deep color and a tannin profile to match. The dark spices on the nose and palate complement the flavors you would expect from a good Oregon Pinot Noir: blackberry, raspberry, black cherry and earth. The oak profile is restrained and the natural acidity from the 2007 vintage gives the wine precision and tautness.

Anna Maria ‘03 Syrah

Syrah is Southern Oregon's Pinot noir: a grape that always shows terrrior (the soils and area where it is grown) and the specific variation of that vintage. The 2003 vintage was perfect for a "Rhone" style Syrah. Generally this means that this wine is more balanced and less "jammy," more earthy, meaty flavors and the fruit is not as sweet.

Cliff Creek ’03 Claret

An elegantly styled wine with bright fruit, the ’03 Claret is a blend of 42% Cabernet Franc, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon and 21% Merlot. It is a classic Bordeaux style wine, with aromas of wild mountain blackberries and the perfect thread of Cabernet Franc’s acidity and zest. Well-balanced with sweet tannins and complex layers.

Andrew Rich ’06 Late Harvest Gewurztraminer

“I hadn't tasted this wine much since it was bottled last spring, so when I brought a sip of it to my nose the other day I was astounded. Pure old-fashioned roses, just like the books say. Litchis? Perhaps, but certainly pineapple, guava, apricot, honey. The flavors are just as complex, the balance chronometer precise, the finish nearly endless. The eleventh(!) vintage of this wine may well be the best yet.” - Andrew Rich

Trick or Treat!!

2010-10-29T18:26:00.000-07:00

Chateau de la Vielle Tour ’07 White Bordeaux
A blend of 60% Sauvignon and 40% Semillon, the typical white wine grapes of Bordeaux. This wine develops fresh and fruity aromas and a nice Sauvignon smell. The mouth is fleshy and round, evolving towards very long pineapple and grapefruit notes.

Pinot Evil Pinot Grigio NV
See no Evil, Hear no Evil, Speak no Evil. The 3 wise monkey proverb was introduced to Japan by a Buddhist monk from China in the 8th Century. Because wines from the Pinot family can be so good, but yet so difficult to raise and make, many winemakers believe this family is blessed and cursed, if not downright Evil. This Pinot Grigio is fresh, with crisp acidity, and a soft friendly palate.

Carpineto ’07 Dogajolo
A great example of a young Super-Tuscan! The first impression of the nose has an earthy barnyard quality that evolves into wild berries and cherries. Even in its youth, this wine exhibits complex flavors of cocoa, vanilla, cherry and coffee wrapped in a soft velvet blanket of tannin that envelops the palate with a soft oak and mild peppery quality; lingering and persistent finish.

Vampire ’05 Cabernet Sauvignon
This bottle possesses the hallmark characteristic of the Cabernet variety, a wild spicy nose with bell pepper tones that the French call "Sauvage." Intensely dark purple in color, this full-bodied wine has a rich fruit flavor and complex oak structure.

Mommy’s Time Out Rosso
We all know that being a Mommy is a difficult job. A Mommy’s Time Out is a well-deserved break. This primitivo from the Puglia region of Italy has tastes of jammy raspberry fruit and lots of spice. It is fresh, fruity and has well-balanced acidity.

Temptation ’05 Zinfandel
A blend of 46% Dry Creek, 33% Alexander Valley grapes, and 21% Solano County grapes, the 2005 vintage of Temptation Zinfandel is loaded with plum, cocoa and most prominently, Bing cherry character. The mouth feel is plush and the finish long. Temptation Zin is a perfect complement to what is AVV’s trio of Zinfandels. Sin Zin, Redemption and Temptation.

Summer Quenchers w/ Beer!!

2010-08-06T02:34:00.000-07:00

Toad Hollow Risque NV

This "vin vivant" (lively wine) is a crisp and fruity sparkling wine with low alcohol (6%) and the taste of fresh green apples and pears. Softly effervescent with just enough sweetness to seduce your palate as an aperitif or tempt you when you want something perfectly naughty to finish ... or, perhaps ... to start again!

Bricco Rosato’06

This Rosato wine was made from red grapes by drawing the fresh juice away from the skins. The brief contact with the skins gives the wine its light red, (or rose),, color. This off-dry, light-bodied wine should be served chilled and may accompany a variety of lighter fare. Or simply enjoy a glass under the shade on a hot afternoon.

Poverty Road Pinot Gris ’05

Poverty Road Pinot Gris is produced from purchased fruit in the Willamette Valley of Oregon. This light white wine is a starter wine, training wheels, a quencher of thirst for those travelling our long road and a rocking chair wine, all in one package. The fruit is sourced from nearby vineyards and is a whole cluster pressing. It is fermented in closed topped stainless steel fermenters and is not stored in oak.

Les Travevses Cotes du Ventoux

Fairly deep red-garnet with violet reflections. Notes of red fruits and spice and white pepper and garrigue. On the palate: Pure and clean with sweet, soft, well-rounded tannins. Long, warm fruity finish.

Lindemans Framboise Lambic

Fruit lambics, like Lindemann's Framboise, are sweet, fruity, and fantastic. The hops, four times the amount used in other beers, are aged for three years, though there is little hops bitterness. They are fermented in dark cellars, keeping the spiders around to keep away the fruit flies. This brew is everything described above plus delicious. It’s fruity, sweet bouquet gives it excellent standing as a dessert beer.

Spaten Pils Lager

The classic Bavarian pilsner, bottom fermented. Bottom fermented pilsner style beer. Very elegant, pale in color, dry and hoppy. Its crisp clean taste is due to the extra fine Bavarian hops.

Lost Coast Brewing Great White

A crisp beer with a hint of citrus, made with two-row malted barley, unmalted wheat, a secret blend of Humboldt herbs, crystal clear mountain water and ale yeast.

Caldera Brewing IPA

An American-style India Pale Ale brewed with plenty of body and an assertive hop profile.

What is Gold Country Wine?

2010-05-07T02:45:00.000-07:00

A Golden Heritage

California's nascent wine industry took flight during the Gold Rush of the 1850s, amid the rugged western foothills of the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range. As fortune seekers, many of them European, flocked to the Sierras to prospect for gold, small wineries arose to help slake their thirst. Within a few decades, there were more wineries in the area known as the Mother Lode than in any other region of California. Some of the vineyards planted during that era survive to this day.

Regrettably, the decline of gold mining at the end of the 19th-century, followed by the advent of Prohibition in 1920, devastated the Sierras' frontier wine community, which lay dormant until the late 1960s. Then, a new generation of pioneers began migrating to the Gold Country, this time drawn by the region's rolling, sun-drenched hillsides, warm climate, and volcanic, decomposed granite soils ideal conditions for producing quality wine grapes. When their robustly flavored Red wines, especially zinfandel, began attracting the attention of wine lovers throughout California and the U.S., the historic Sierra foothill wine region was reborn.

Today, where gold once reigned, wineries produce a new treasure: the superb wines which have earned Gold Country international recognition again.

Whats The Big Deal With Napa Cab?

2010-05-07T02:38:00.000-07:00

The Paris Wine Tasting of 1976 or the "Judgment of Paris" was a wine competition organized in Paris in 1976 by Steven Spurrier, a British wine merchant, in which French judges did blind tasting of top-quality chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon wines from France and from California. California wines rated best in each category, which caused surprise as France was generally regarded as being the foremost producer of the world's best wines. Spurrier sold only French wine and believed that the California wines would not win.

White wines (Chardonnay)
1. United States - Chateau Montelena 1973 (winemaker Mike Grgich)
2. France - Meursault Charmes Roulot 1973
3. United States - Chalone Vineyard 1974
4. United States - Spring Mountain Vineyard 1973
5. France - Beaune Clos des Mouches Joseph Drouhin 1973
6. United States - Freemark Abbey Winery 1972
7. France - Batard-Montrachet Ramonet-Prudhon 1973
8. France - Puligny-Montrachet Les Pucelles Domaine Leflaive 1972
9. United States - Veedercrest Vineyards 1972
10. United States - David Bruce Winery 1973
*All 11 judges awarded their top scores to either Chalone Vineyard or Chateau Montelena, both of California.

Red wines (Cabernet Sauvignon)
Rank – Country – Wine – Average grade (out of 20)
1. United States - Stag's Leap Wine Cellars 1973 – 14.14
2. France - Château Mouton-Rothschild 1970 – 14.09
3. France - Château Montrose 1970 – 13.64
4. France - Château Haut-Brion 1970 – 13.23
5. United States - Ridge Vineyards Monte Bello 1971 – 12.14
6. France - Château Leoville Las Cases 1971 – 11.18
7. United States - Heitz Wine Cellars 'Martha's Vineyard' 1970 – 10.36
8. United States - Clos Du Val Winery 1972 – 10.14
9. United States - Mayacamas Vineyards 1971 – 9.77
10. United States - Freemark Abbey Winery 1967 – 9.64

"The wine that one judge said bespoke 'the magnificence of France' turned out to be a Napa Cabernet." Similarly, "'That is definitely a California. It has no nose,' said another judge — after downing a Batard-Montrachet '73." The comments and results of the tasting indicated that the judges could not distinguish California from French wines.

Three of the four Bordeaux wines in the competition were from the 1970 vintage, identified by the Conseil Interprofessionel du Vin de Bordeaux as among the four best vintages in the past 45 years or more. "When the results were tallied and announced, several judges behaved badly, refusing to give up their notes, and one even tried to change his numbers before Spurrier whipped away the scorecards." (McCoy)

One of the judges, Odette Kahn, tried to get her ballot back at the close of the event. Spurrier declined to provide it, after which she refused to speak to him, except to charge that he had falsified the results of the tasting. One of the winning winemakers, Warren Winiarski, received letters from people in the French wine business telling him that the results were a fluke. In essence, their letters argued that "'everyone knows' French wines are better than California wines 'in principle' and always will be." As recently as 2005, some of the judges refused to discuss the tasting, saying that to do so would be "too painful."

Although Spurrier had invited many reporters, the only reporter to attend was George M. Taber from Time magazine, who promptly revealed the results to the world. Leaders of the French wine industry then banned Spurrier from the nation's prestige wine-tasting tour for a year, apparently as punishment for the damage his tasting had done to its former image of superiority.

The Tasting that Changed the Wine World: 'The Judgment of Paris' 30th Anniversary
A 30-year anniversary re-tasting on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean was organized by Steven Spurrier in 2006. As The Times reported "Despite the French tasters, many of whom had taken part in the original tasting, 'expecting the downfall' of the American vineyards, they had to admit that the harmony of the Californian cabernets had beaten them again. Judges on both continents gave top honours to a 1971 Ridge Monte Bello cabernet. Four Californian reds occupied the next placings before the highest-ranked Bordeaux, a 1970 Château Mouton-Rothschild, came in at sixth"

Wines of the Iberian Peninsula!

2010-01-29T18:22:00.000-08:00

Terra Antigua ’07 Vinho Verde (Portugal)A blend of Alvaringo and Trajadura, the wine shows citrus fruity aromas. Very soft in the mouth with tones of freshness. Incredibly easy drinking, with citrus and green apple notes--totally drinkable by itself, as well as with light fish and seafood dishes, soft cheeses, or pasta with cream sauce. In short, a wonderful, crisp white house wine to stock up on for the spring months.

Bodegas Guelbenzu ’07 Red (Spain)2007 Bodegas Guelbenzu Red is a blend of 45% Merlot, 30% Syrah, 18% Tempranillo and 7% Graciano. It sees no oak and is made in a more international style, so it is supposed to be more fruit forward. Easy drinking and smooth, with plenty of red fruit flavors as well as hints of herbs. It has a bit more exotic flavor than a pure Merlot but also differs from a more dominant Tempranillo blend. This is a good pizza or burger wine, an easy quaffer that is sure to please.

Grilos ’06 Dao Tinto (Portugal)Aged six months in French Oak, Grilos is a blend of Touriga Nacional and Alfrocheiro. The color is an intense ruby. The aroma shows notes of red fruits, black cherry and raspberry. In the mouth it has an excellent balance between acids and tannins.

2007 Marques de Caceres Rosado RiojaVivid, pale raspberry color. Charming bouquet of red berries with a hint of fragrant flowers. Lusciously fresh in the mouth with full fruit and good structure. The perfect Rose for fish and a perfect accompaniment to most Mediterranean cuisine.

2005 SextoThe 2005 Sexto is a red blend from the Terra Alta DO in northeastern Spain. Its name means "sixth," as it was the sixth grape – the relatively obscure Lledoner Pelut Noir – added to the blend of Grenache, Carignan, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah that winemaker Laely Heron credits with adding an extra layer of complexity that made all the difference. "Laely Heron's Garnacha-driven six-variety Spanish blend is searing and nervy with ripe plum and blackberry fruit; modern in style with stunning balance. 91 points ." - Anthony Dias Blue

2006 Quinta de Bons-VentosVery aromatic with notes of ripe black and red fruit. On the palate, has a fruity attack with a fat and rich substance that balances with oak notes and agreeably pronounced acidity. The fresh yet fine tannins take over at the finish and flavors of pepper and licorice dominate. Castelão (Periquita), Camarate, Tinta Miúda and in a smaller proportion Touriga Nacional.

Wines by the Fireside

2010-01-22T01:17:00.000-08:00

Este

A powerful wine filled with aromas and bold flavors of cherry, black licorice, cinnamon and rich blackberry, with soft touches of chocolate and cola.

Cartlidge & Brown 2005 Zinfandel- CaliforniaWith aromas of tropical fruit and pear, the palate is softened by a creamy quality enhanced by the spicy oak. Cartlidge and Brown carefully source grapes from vineyards throughout the state of CA to craft their smooth pleasurable wines. Pairs nicely with white meat dishes.

Usual Suspects 2006 Shiraz- AustrailiaThe Hesketh 'Usual Suspects' Shiraz 2006 is an Australian red from the McLaren Vale region. It illustrates the French style of winemaking that co-ferments Shiraz (Syrah) with a small amount of the famous Rhone white grape, Viognier (4%). This traditional method allows for a more approachable plum/currant fruit, while still keeping a good acid structure. The bouquet offers floral notes riding above the purple fruit aromas. Nice balance, good fruit and spice in the finish.

Finca Antigua 2005 Tempernillo- SpainIntense cherry red color with elegant violet tones. Fine aroma. This is an elegant wine with nuances of black and red fruit and balsamic depths which reflect its slight aging. This wine is deliciously well bodied and the wood aging endows pleasant tannins which leave a good aftertaste in the mouth.

Foundry Vineyards 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon- California

This Cabernet has a touch of Merlot blended in to assist in a full palate experience. It has a bright nose with hints of ripe strawberry, currant, orange peel and dark chocolate. Light and smooth tannins with tarry oak, it is well balance and goes great with or without food.

Lot 205 Petite Syrah

Resolution Reds

2010-01-01T01:28:00.000-08:00

Resolve to enjoy some tasty California Rhones on your day of recovery (or "resolution"). These hearty and flavorful delights are a great reminder of what not to give up this year.

Tablas Creek ’05 Roussanne- Paso Robles

This 2005 Roussanne is Tablas Creek's fourth national release of its 100% Roussanne. The wine is exuberantly and elegantly in character of the Roussanne grape, with honey, honeysuckle, and pear aromatics, lemon zest flavors, moderate acidity a rich, viscous mouth feel with just a hint of oak, and a long, lingering finish.

Peltier Station ’06 Viognier- Lodi

The Viognier, with its floral notes, blends well with aged cheese but can certainly be taken anywhere from aperitif to dessert to drinking solo. This wine has a bright platinum color and exhibits luscious floral, rich fruity aromas and flavors that suggest fried banana and a tropical tone down at the finish. Full-bodied, but a perfectly balanced acid structure makes it accessible and enjoyable for all palates.

Cline ’06 Mourvedre Ancient Vines- Contra Costa County

Mourvedre is an exotic grape found in the Rhone and Provence regions of France, Spain and Australia. Once widely planted in California (where it is often called Mataro), today only a tiny amount exists and Cline owns many of the historic ancient vines that remain. Wild and grapey, showing zesty cherry and berry fruits, smooth in texture, with chocolate and a hint of oak, this juicy Ancient Vines Mourvedre is delicious now and will age well.

Spellbound ’05 Petite Sirah- Lodi

The 2005 Petite Sirah from Spellbound Wines offers rich, approachable, full-bodied flavors and supple tannins. The Lodi appellation fruit, aged in handcrafted, small oak barrels provides backbone and structure to this lovely wine. Fermenting the grapes in stainless steel captures the bright berry fruit intensity of Petite Sirah. Aging in French and American oak lend undertones of vanilla crème brulee while softening the tannins and enhancing the structure. All factors combined create a balanced style that is un-mistakably Petite Sirah.

Estancia ’05 Shiraz- Central Coast

Fruit from two different regions work together to make this Central Coast Shiraz. They chose cool climate Monterey grapes for the exceptional texture they provide and Paso Robles grapes for their rich and spicy berry characters. Deep garnet in color; aromas of dark berries and plum open, followed by bright red plums, berries and earth. The palate is filled with dark ripe fruits, smoke and black pepper. 76% Shiraz, 18% Petite Sirah, 4% Grenache, 2% Mourvedre. This vibrant and delicious Shiraz (Syrah) is an approachable, pleasing wine.

Red Shorts Red- Lodi

As the fourth generation owner and grower of Peirano Estate Vineyards, Lance wears his red shorts throughout the wine season, a tradition started long ago. He dons them from spring until the last of the grapes are harvested in the fall. It’s his sacrifice to the “weather gods” to protect the Lodi growers from Spring frosts. This blend of 70% Syrah, 20% Petite Sirah, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon & 5% Viognier exemplifies their commitment to quality.

End of the Year Sparklers

2009-12-25T18:53:00.000-08:00

Loredan Gasparini NV Prosecco
This Prosecco Brut shows straw colors with hints of green. Marked by aromas of yellow flowers and freshly mown hay; followed by flavors of apple, yellow peach and pineapple. This wine is extraordinary and shows a persistant palate, great structure and concentration, and an unexpected long finish.

Mont Marcal Cava Reserva
“Clean and fresh, with pleasant apple, citrus and spice flavors and an almond note. A good all-around bubbly, before or with a meal. 86 Points.” The Wine Spectator

Gruet NV Blanc de Nois
“Mature, with good richness and complexity built around a core of earthy pear, spice and hazelnut flavors. Finishes with a nice dry aftertaste. 86 Points.” The Wine Spectator

Duval-Leroy Champagne
“A big, full-bodied bubbly, featuring graphite, toast, lemon and nut aromas and flavors. Balanced, with an assertive finish. Will improve with a few months of cellaring. 93 Points/Highly Recommended.” - The Wine Spectator

Warre 10 Year Otima Tawny
“A ripe and rich tawny. Loads of caramel, honey and dried fruits, with just a hint of Douro bake, or iodine character. Full-bodied, sweet and very toffeelike on the palate. Long finish. Dying for nuts and Stilton. 90 Points.” The Wine Spectator

Troon Insomnia Port
Dates, fruit cake, and characteristics of amaretto round out the nose. Flavors include candied apple and spicy currant jam, with an ultra-smoothness.

Hearty Winter Reds!

2009-12-11T02:00:00.000-08:00

Root:1 Cabernet Sauvignon ’07--Chile

Rich ruby color with tastes of black cherry, full plum and soft vanilla and toffee notes. The silky tannins and good structure support a long complex finish. A great accompaniment to grilled red meats, ripe cheeses and savory dishes including spicy Italian and Mediterranean food. Bronze medal, 2008 San Francisco Int’l. Wine Competition.

Concannon Petite Sirah ‘05

The 2005 Limited Release Petite Sirah is an intense wine with vibrant berry fruits and a full palate. The wine starts with attractive aromas of ripe berries, creamy oak and a touch of spice, and hints of toasty oak and vanilla enrich the palate. The wine’s full body is complemented by a firm and balanced structure, and the finish is lasting and memorable.

Lindeman’s ’06 Western Cape Shiraz—South Africa

Deep red with purple hues. Lovely ripe fruit flavors on the nose, with distinct mulberry and fennel aromas. Sweet and inviting. A great example of the fruit that can come from South African Shiraz…crammed full of dark berry fruits, chocolate and a touch of licorice, this wine really delivers a rich fruit compote on the palate.

Kaiken ‘06 Malbec--Argentina

"Solid stuff, with a touch of leather and earth mingling with candied dark-fruit aromas. The wine is plush and ripe, with full black cherry and plum flavors sitting on a sturdy, medium-tannin frame. Appealing and approachable, with no glaring flaws. Excellent for near-term drinking. 89 Points - Best Buy.” The Wine Enthusiast

Ten Mile Broken Road ’05--California

The inspiration for Ten Mile " The Broken Road" was based upon the classic California field blends from the 1800's. Sourced from several dry farmed. old vine vineyards, "The Broken Road" is a blend of Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Barbera, Malbec and Carignane. Dark purple hues with brooding aromas of pepper and black raspberry tea dominate the nose. Black fruits are well displayed on the palate in a medium bodied, supple style while the nicely structured acidity ensures a multitude of dimension, you don't often find in wines of this price.

Viano Lodi ’05 Zinfandel--California

Produced from 40 year old vineyards located near the base of the Sierra Foothills, the wine shows vibrant fruit and moderate tannins. It is enhanced by French and American Oak aging for soft, subtle finish. Enjoy with your favorite meal. Silver Medal – 2007 California Zinfandel Championship.

Southern Oregon's Finest

2009-11-27T03:29:00.000-08:00

Weisinger’s Petite Blanc
A premier white blend of Viognier, Chardonnay, Semillon, and Gewurztraminer. Deep floral, tropical and citrus notes with great complexity, mouth-feel, and a beautiful finish. This wine is a chamber orchestra in your glass!

Naked Winery Tease Riesling ’06
This wine promises to be a sure thing. It's sweet, but not too sweet. this semi-sweet light wine is bountiful in summer fruit, candied casaba melons, honey drizzled apricots, with a soft lemon citrus finish.

Brandborg Northern Reach Pinot Noir ’04
Northern Reach Pinot Noir is sourced from two vineyards in the most northern and coolest reaches of the Umpqua Valley. This wine is very Burgundian in character with good acidity, structure and balance. The aromas and bouquet are very full with tar, cinnamon, nutmeg, wild forest herbs, lavender and mushrooms

Devitt Precipice ’06
This is a blend of 50% Merlot and 50% Zinfandel, from Old Stage Vineyards just outside of Jacksonville. They harvested the grapes in mid October and fermented until dry. This exceptional wine has an aromatic nose With peppery Flavors. Precipice is a medium-bodied dry red wine with a fruity nose. Great mouthfeel that goes well with red meat and wild game.

Cliff Creek Claret ’03
An elegantly styled wine with bright fruit. A blend of 42% Cabernet Franc, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon and 21% Merlot, it is a classic Bordeaux style wine, with aromas of wild mountain blackberries and the perfect thread of Carbernet Franc's acidity and zest. Well-balanced with sweet tannins and complex layers.

Spangler Syrah ’05
Harvested on November 1st after a cool but extended Indian summer, this Syrah belies its medium hue as a dark, brooding wine with flavors of pomegranate, cinnamon, leather and cedar.

Wines for Thanksgiving

2009-11-15T02:24:00.000-08:00

Loosen Brothers Dr. L Riesling ‘06
Germany has lots of vintners who use the title ‘Dr.’ But the chief-of-staff at the clinic of German wine is Ernst Loosen. With access to fruit from some of the best red- and gray-slate vineyards on the twisty, high-banked river, Loosen offers polished and stylish yet thrilling modern Rieslings.

Hugel & Fils Gentil Hugel ’05
The golden rule at Hugel is "The wine is already in the grape". As soon as they arrive at the Hugel premises in the heart of Riquewihr, the grapes are classified according to precise and strict criteria of quality. A blend of Gewurztraminer, Muscat, Pinot Gris, Riesling, and Sylvaner this dry wine has a lively, youthful fresh character that is refreshing, with a pleasant, scented finish. Gentil is a perfect wine to sip with friends or to enjoy with simple everyday meals.

Mulderbosch Rose of Cabernet Sauvignon ’06
A brilliant, lively, clear wine, strawberry in color. A complex nose, but the aromas are mainly in the rose petal, strawberry and cherry spectrum. A dry lingering palate of pomegranate and berry fruits fills your mouth.

Georges Debouef Beaujolais Noueau ’07
Georges Duboeuf has been called the King of Beaujolais. This is a title of appreciation as much as it is for achievement. He is, in fact, the region's largest producer, controlling more than 10 percent of the total production.

Evesham Wood Willamette Valley Pinot Noir ’06
Forty percent of the fruit for Evesham Wood's 2006 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir comes from Ford Vineyard, an excellent young site just northeast and slightly downhill from the better-known Freedom Hill Vineyard in the foothills of the Coast Range. The wine, like previous vintages, is full of pronounced black cherry aromas and flavors with the firmness and concentration of the 2004 vintage, a bright, jammy palate with a hint of earth and balanced acidity. Delish!

Argyle Willamette Valley Pinot Noir ‘06
This is what cool, marine climate Pinot Noir is all about. The intensity of aromas in this wine is truly exciting. The aromas are a tightly coiled spring of ripe Santa Rosa plum, black cherry, cassis preserves, wrapped around an earthy and mineral framework. The flavors are a viscous blend of black cherry preserves, a touch of cedar, with a juicy center wrapped in thick tannin.

Trick or Treat!!

2009-10-30T18:31:00.000-07:00

Nobilo ’07 Sauvignon Blanc
“Tangy and tart, with lime, green apple and grass flavors accented by grapefruit and stone nuances. Clean and refreshing. Simply put, this is perhaps the best value among a host of excellent Marlborough Sauvignon Blancs. It is outstanding with salads, seafood, or all by itself! 90 Points.” The Wine Spectator

Pinot Evil Pinot Grigio NV
See no Evil, Hear no Evil, Speak no Evil. The 3 wise monkey proverb was introduced to Japan by a Buddhist monk from China in the 8th Century. Because wines from the Pinot family can be so good, but yet so difficult to raise and make, many winemakers believe this family is blessed and cursed, if not downright Evil. This Pinot Grigio is fresh, with crisp acidity, and a soft friendly palate.

Carpineto ’07 Dogajolo
A great example of a young Super-Tuscan! The first impression of the nose has an earthy barnyard quality that evolves into wild berries and cherries. Even in its youth, this wine exhibits complex flavors of cocoa, vanilla, cherry and coffee wrapped in a soft velvet blanket of tannin that envelops the palate with a soft oak and mild peppery quality; lingering and persistent finish.

14 Hands ’05 Merlot
14 Hands Merlot exhibits classic Washington aromas of blackberries and dark stone fruits. Blackberries are repeated on the palate and joined by touches of cherries and spice. While soft and luxurious in the mouth, this wine has a firm backbone of tannins.

Basket Case ’06 Cabernet Sauvignon
Opens with a deep cherry aroma, splashes of cassis, and finishes with hints of pepper that is equal parts bell pepper and white pepper spice. There’s no death-defying tannins to grip the wine to your palate. The wine starts off juicy, glides across the tongue effortlessly with a bit of dryness on the roof of your mouth to slow it down a tad, and finishes smooth with a bit of lingering cassis.

Mommy’s Time Out ’06 Rosso
We all know that being a Mommy is a difficult job. A Mommy’s Time Out is a well-deserved break. This primitivo from the Puglia region of Italy has tastes of jammy raspberry fruit and lots of spice. It is fresh, fruity and has well-balanced acidity.

Magnificent Malbec

2009-10-16T02:04:00.000-07:00

Viu Manent Secreto Malbec 2006

IS One of a handful of South American wineries employing New Zealand winemaking expertise to lift quality and develop high standards. In this case Grant Phelps, ex-Villa Maria, holds the reins. His impenetrable, purple-hued Malbec is still pretty raw, showing inky blueberry-like fruit, great depth, big grippy tannins and truly macho presence.

Alta Vista Premium Malbec 2004

Alta Vista’s Premium line is made from a careful selection of their old vines mainly from the Serenade Vineyard, in the Lujan de Cuyo region. Quite classy, the bouquet is concentrated and dense, filled with black raspberry, licorice and spice. The fruit is powerful yet smooth on the palate and it keeps unfolding for ages revealing layers of savory black berries and cocoa

Abacela Malbec 2005

We think this Malbec is dynamite when paired with traditional dishes like grilled duck confit & white bean cassoulet. Don’t let the plush texture fool you, though. This wine has tremendous acid balance, great tannin structure and the concentration to age beautifully over the next three to five years with proper cellaring.

Alamos Seleccion Malbec 2006

The 2006 Alamos Selección Malbec presents a deeply dark violet color with blackish tones. The nose is full of ripe black fruits with floral tones and touches of leather, vanilla and spice. The mouthfeel is full yet supple, with juicy black raspberry, black cherry and black currant fruit layered with notes of violets, black pepper and anise.

Broquel Malbec 2005

Made in a forward, modern style, with spicy toast leading the way for raspberry and plum fruit flavors; finish shows smoked bacon and dark chocolate notes. Dark as night, with a rich, round, deep nose. Overt on the palate, with cherry, blackberry and plum. Juicy enough, with chewy tannins and firm acidity. Beefy enough to match with any meat and dark enough to substitute for paint.

Pascual Toso Reserve Malbec 2005

Established in 1890 by Pascual Toso, originally from Piemonte in Italy, Toso is one of the oldest and most prestigious wine producers in Argentina. There are two wineries - both in the premium region of Mendoza. This wine is smoky, with blackberry and licorice fruit that keeps a firm grip through the finish. It is rich and long with smoky accents of vanilla and lingering oak.

Wines for Valentines

2009-02-06T00:52:00.000-08:00

Marquis de Perlade

Pale gold color; this sparkler is delicate, delicious and delightful. The taste is extremely fresh, wrapped by an elegant bubble substance, clean, with a crisp, dry, and pleasant finish.

Ideal as an aperitif or as a cocktail wine.

Mas Donis Rosat 2006

Very aromatic with strawberries and raspberries followed by some subtle mountain herbs and rocks. In the mouth there is excellent balance with a glycerol feel. Dry and long. The palate mimics the nose for the most part but adds some pepper and apple notes. 89 Pts. - Wine spectator notes

Meditrina 2004

"A perfect marriage of Pinot Noir, Syrah and Zinfandel that's juicy, rich and full of fruit. A core of rich, lush raspberry from the Syrah. The Zin brings spice, tannin and structure. And the Pinot Noir brings flowers, earth and elegance. It all adds up to a luscious & juicy.

Il Cuore 2006

A unique blend of Sangiovese, Zinfandel and Charbono. The wine is an exuberant expression of berries, plums and ripe cherries. Sangiovese, delicate in color yet intense with flavor, is the noble grape variety cultivated in the rugged foothills of Tuscany for over 2,000 years. Zinfandel adds a rich blackberry-raspberry quality. Charbono completes the trio with peppery, plumy flavors and deep color. The spicy flavors will enhance lamb, roasted herbed chicken, hearty pasta and Mediterranean-style grilled meats and vegetables.

Framboise

If you've never tried Framboise, you're in for a decadent treat. The Morrison raspberries for Pacific Rim's Framboise come from Mount Vernon, Washington and are sweet and bright. Like drinking liquid raspberry with a floral highlight, this is delicious drizzled over chocolate or cheesecake or shaken up win your favorite cocktail. “Raspberry, explosions of raspberry flavor, eruptions of raspberry zest. The quiddity of the essence raspberry, an extravasation of raspberry lava. It is a delight to sip.”

Vintage Zinfandel Port

This 2005 vintage Zinfandel Port is not your traditional style Port. It is intriguing and full flavored. It is ripe, soft, and loaded with berry flavors, with a light peppery finish. Won 2005 Gold medal - Orange County Fair.

California Rhones

2009-01-30T01:26:00.000-08:00

The Crusher Viognier 2007

This pale straw colored wine bears a slight glint of steely blue. Intense aromas of jasmine and clove unfold with hints of apricot and peach. The palate has a luscious, nectar like texture, abundant with apricot grit and sweet white peach flavors, and a finish of star anise, vanilla and juicy Bartlett pear.

Tablas Creek Cotes de Tablas Blanc 2007

Four estate-grown white varietals of Viognier, Roussanne, Marsanne, and Grenache Blanc blend in this style of French Cotes du Rhone white. It features intense aromas of stone fruits and minerals, flavors of apricot and Provençal herbs, rich texture, moderate acidity and a long peachy finish.

Tete-a-Tete Red Blend 2005

Peppery nose interwoven with black cherries, black currants, and roasted Provencal herbs is reminiscent of a classic southern Rhone Valley wine. Some blacker fruits make an impression on the palate, and the wine is textured, attractively pure, ripe, and delicious. This is an enviable winery turning out an entire portfolio of worthwhile wines, with some terrific value. The blend features syrah (56%), mourvèdre (28%) and grenache (16%) This is a wine for everyday enjoyment.

Joseph Phelps Pastiche Red Blend 2005

Oak barrel aging is immediately apparent, and as you continue to drink it, you'll find yourself impressed with the complexity this wine presents to your palate. This approachable red wine offers spice, blueberries and licorice on the nose, followed by Bing Cherry notes that follow through with a well-balanced, tasty finish. Pastiche is a perfect choice for picnics, barbecue and stews.

Carmichael Sur le Pont Red Blend 2005

Warm and inviting on the nose, initial impressions are of spice and chocolate, with plum and black cherry fruit also prominent in the aroma. Once in the mouth, the tactile impression broadens considerably with a warm, roasted chestnut quality across the mid-palate, which then translates seamlessly into a full finish, with plenty of soft, chalky tannins. Dark red and black fruit flavors predominate in this rich and flavorful blend

Cline Ancient Vine Mourvedre 2006

Mourvedre is an exotic grape found in the Rhone and Provence regions of France, Spain and Australia. Cline owns many of the historic ancient mourverdre vines that remain in California. Redolent of dark plum, chocolate with a hint of oak, this juicy Mourvedre is delicious now and will age for well over a decade. It is richly textured and voluptuous with silky tannins and brilliant underlying natural acidity. This multi-faceted wine has notes of chalk, dried herbs, brush, garrigue, mineral, tar, mocha, truffle, and Asian Five Spice with fig, raisin, and vanilla flavors on the long, sweet tart finish.

Wines by the Fireside

2009-01-23T01:20:00.000-08:00

Dynamite Zinfandel

Friends. Red 2006 Red Wine

Bitch Grenache 2007- Australia

Lot 205 Petite Syrah

Peter Lehmann Cabernet Sauvignon

This wine has been recognized all over the world as one of Australia’s great Cabernet Sauvignon. The fruit is fermented on skins for 7 days, and then matured in French and American oak for 12 months before bottling. Leaving a dark wine with full fruit and chocolate notes. Wine spectator 90 points.

Cartlidge & Brown 2005 Zinfandel- California

14 Hands Merlot—Washington State

Finca Antigua 2005 Tempernillo - Spain

Foundry Vineyards 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon- California

Wine Spectator >89 Points <$15 Bucks!

2009-01-16T03:10:00.000-08:00

Pazo Serantellos ’07 Albarino Rias Baixas
“This graceful Spanish white marries a plush texture with a steely backbone, offering ripe flavors of pear, melon and honeysuckle kept lively by a minerally acidity. 89 Points.” - The Wine Spectator

Terrapin Cellars ’07 Pinot Gris
“Soft and round, with a lovely glow of peach and melon flavors at the core, wafting gracefully through the long finish. 89 Points.” - The Wine Spectator

Dona Paula ’07 Malbec
“Dark and winey, with warm currant paste, cocoa powder and Turkish coffee notes backed by solid grip on the fleshy finish. Nice hint of grilled sage adds dimension too. 90 Points.” - The Wine Spectator

Waterbrook ’05 Melange
“A smooth, velvety style offers a core of cherry fruit surrounded by hints of cinnamon, pepper, autumn leaves and mineral notes. The finish doesn't quit easily, but this doesn't come off as a big wine. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc and Syrah. 89 Points.” - The Wine Spectator

J. P. Henriques ’05 Cotes du Roussillon-Villages Mas de la Garrigue
“Concentrated, with an intense array of focused red plum, raspberry and red cherry flavors and vibrant notes of anise. The cedary elements lengthen out nicely on the creamy finish. Grenache, Carignane and Syrah. 89 Points.” - The Wine Spectator

Delas Freres ‘07 Saint-Esprit Cotes-du-Rhone
"The amazing 2007 Cotes du Rhone St.-Esprit (75% Syrah and 25% Grenache) reveals a northern Rhone orientation, but it is loaded with spice and black fruits, and displays a beautiful opulent texture as well as a gorgeous finish with impressive purity. Chateauneuf du Pape has also benefited from the new attention to detail and upgraded quality. 90 Points" - Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

Nobilo ’07 Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc
“Supple, intense and streamlined, with a suave array of grapefruit, mineral, herb and guava. Spice notes add complexity, with generous fruit and mineral fleshing out the finish. 90 Points” - The Wine Spectator

D’Arenberg ‘06 The Hermit Crab
“An exotic. flamboyant effort, the Hermit Crab (66% Marsanne and 34% Voignier) possesses copious quantities of marmalade, honeysuckle, and white flowers presented in a hedonistically driven, dry white fruit bomb. This ripe, heady 2006 offers a smorgasbord of fruit in its dry, long, glycerin-imbued personality. Enjoy it over the next 18 months. 90 Points.” - The Wine Spectator

Tin Roof ’05 Merlot
“A good, gentle, easy sipper, nicely dry and balanced...a great job balancing ripe berry and stone fruits with earthy herbs and spices. Sommeliers scoop this one up while you can. 90 Points” - The Wine Enthusiast

Wines of the Iberian Peninsula!

2009-01-09T18:16:00.000-08:00

Codoniu Cava Original NV (Spain)
This cava was christened ‘Original’ as it is made from the same blend of grapes used by Josep Raventós, creator of Codorníu Cavas in 1872. Reserve wine adds depth and flavor to this crisp cava, made from the classic cava grapes; Parellada, Macabeo and Xarello. Great with soft cheeses, dried fruits and nuts. It also matches perfectly the Mediterranean taste of rices or grilled fish and at the end of a meal with your favorite desserts: cake, pastries, creams, etc.

Bodegas Breton ’04 Lorinon Rioja (Spain)
Predominently Tempranillo with a splash of Graciano, Mazuelo and Garnacha, the wine is garnet red of medium depth. Aromas of red fruit, blueberries and licorice that blend nicely with toasty and vanilla notes from aging. Powerful and meaty in the mouth with fresh, mature tannins.

Grilos ’06 Dao Tinto (Portugal)
Aged six months in French Oak, Grilos is a blend of Touriga Nacional and Alfrocheiro. The color is an intense ruby. The aroma shows notes of red fruits, black cherry and raspberry. In the mouth it has an excellent balance between acids and tannins.

Warre’s Otima 10-Year Tawny (Portugal)
“A ripe and rich tawny. Loads of caramel, honey and dried fruit.. Full-bodied, sweet and very toffee like on the palate. Long finish. 90 Points.” The Wine Spectator

2005 Sexto
The 2005 Sexto is a red blend from the Terra Alta DO in northeastern Spain. Its name means "sixth," as it was the sixth grape – the relatively obscure Lledoner Pelut Noir – added to the blend of Grenache, Carignan, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah that winemaker Laely Heron credits with adding an extra layer of complexity that made all the difference. "Laely Heron's Garnacha-driven six-variety Spanish blend is searing and nervy with ripe plum and blackberry fruit; modern in style with stunning balance. 91 points ." - Anthony Dias Blue

2004 Navarra Boland Crianza
This blend of cabernet, merlot and tempranillo is a rich, medium to full-bodied wine with complex spice notes along with the ripe black fruit flavors. Pairs well with grilled fare, stews, roasts and other full flavored dishes work well with this red.

2006 Quinta de Bons-Ventos
Very aromatic with notes of ripe black and red fruit. On the palate, has a fruity attack with a fat and rich substance that balances with oak notes and agreeably pronounced acidity. The fresh yet fine tannins take over at the finish and flavors of pepper and licorice dominate. Castelão (Periquita), Camarate, Tinta Miúda and in a smaller proportion Touriga Nacional.

Grab Bag Wines

2009-01-02T00:18:00.000-08:00

Now we're globe-trotting. Spanish, Italian, South African, Argentinian, and then back to Cali', Cali'.

Pazo Serantellos ’07 Albarino
“This graceful Spanish white marries a plush texture with a steely backbone, offering ripe flavors of pear, melon and honeysuckle kept lively by a minerally acidity. 89 Points.” - The Wine Spectator

Monte Oton ’07 Garnacha
Monte Oton is vinified from grapes grown in rich volcanic soil. The result is a hearty, ripe, and textured wine with loads of blackberry, raspberry, and plum fruit. “Blackberry, licorice, mocha and tar notes are soft and approachable in this juicy, fruity red. Moderate tannins keep it from turning frankly sweet.” - The Wine Spectator

Pinot Evil Pinot Grigio – Italy
See no Evil, Hear no Evil, Speak no Evil. The 3 wise monkey proverb was introduced to Japan by a Buddhist monk from China in the 8th Century. Because wines from the Pinot family can be so good, but yet so difficult to raise and make, many winemakers believe this family is blessed and cursed, if not downright Evil. This Pinot Grigio is fresh, with crisp acidity, and a soft friendly palate.

La Yunta Torrontés ’07 – Argentina
The Spanish words “La Yunta” signify a pair pulling together for a common cause. This wine is known as the white wine of Argentina. Pulling the cork on a Torrontés can be like opening a bottle of wonderfully unmistakable aroma, resembling roses, jasmine and honeysuckle, with occasional spicy essences. The flavor is crisp, bright and clean, combining pear, apple and a citrus hint of starfruit. This is a great wine for the hot summer months. Can hold up to with spicy Thai food but favorite way to enjoy this little known grape is just sitting on the patio.

Cypress Vineyards ’07 Merlot – California
Produced by J. Lohr, Cypress Merlot is a deeply-colored, youthful, dark purple-red with enticing fruit aromas of blueberry pie, grape jam, and violet. The flavors are plush, forward and full, with considerable weightiness of fruit and structure. A very complex and brightly-fruited wine, the Cypress Merlot makes an ideal accompaniment to roasted or grilled lamb, beef, or red-sauced pasta dishes.

Sexto 6 Terra Alta ‘05 Red – Spain
“A ripe red, with chocolate truffle and raspberry coulis notes on a supple framework. Tangy acidity leads to a spicy finish. The perfect blend of Garnacha, Cariñena, Tempranillo and others.”

Cycles Gladiator ’06 Cabernet Sauvignon – California
The 2004 Cycles-Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon has lovely aromas of raspberry, mint, and mocha. Flavors of dark fruits layered on more dark fruits wrapped in a cloak of dusty tannins. Lush and mouthfilling from start to finish, there is enough acid to support the whole structure but doesn’t finish sharp. The wine drops off at just the right place.

Lindemans ’05 Shiraz – South Africa
Displays ripe, dark berry and plum flavors, with a touch of licorice and complimented by mulberry aromas. An easy drinking wine well complimented with food.

End of the Year Sparklers

2008-12-26T18:50:00.000-08:00

Loredan Gasparini NV Prosecco
This Prosecco Brut shows straw colors with hints of green. Marked by aromas of yellow flowers and freshly mown hay; followed by flavors of apple, yellow peach and pineapple. This wine is extraordinary and shows a persistant palate, great structure and concentration, and an unexpected long finish.

Gruet Blanc de Noirs NV“
Mature, with good richness and complexity built around a core of earthy pear, spice and hazelnut flavors. Finishes with a nice dry aftertaste. 86 Points.” The Wine Spectator

Schramsberg Brut Rosé North Coast Mirabelle NV
“A rosé with serious intentions, this has a delicate pink hue and floral strawberry and spicy yeast roll aromas. The flavors show good focus, offering raspberry, Gala apple, ginger and fig flavors. - 93 Points/Smart Buy.” The Wine Spectator

Duval-Leroy Champagne NV
“A big, full-bodied bubbly, featuring graphite, toast, lemon and nut aromas and flavors. Balanced, with an assertive finish. Will improve with a few months of cellaring. 93 Points/Highly Recommended.” - The Wine Spectator

Warre 10 Year Otima Tawny
“A ripe and rich tawny. Loads of caramel, honey and dried fruits, with just a hint of Douro bake, or iodine character. Full-bodied, sweet and very toffeelike on the palate. Long finish. Dying for nuts and Stilton. 90 Points.” The Wine Spectator

Dow’s ’01 Late Bottled Vintage Port
Excellent deep ruby red hue. Intense aromas of plums, prunes and pepper on the nose combined with hints of violet and spices. On the palate good backbone and vibrant fruit flavors. With a long and lightly dry sustained finish.

Hearty Winter Reds!

2008-12-05T01:55:00.000-08:00

’06 Lindeman’s Western Cape Shiraz

Deep red with purple hues. Lovely ripe fruit flavors on th nose, with distinct mulberry and fennel aromas. Sweet and inviting. A great example of the fruit that can come from South African Shiraz…crammed full of dark berry fruits, chocolate and a touch of licorice, this wine really delivers a rich fruit compote on the palate.

Kaiken ‘06 Malbec--Argentina

Ten Mile Broken Road ’05--California

Viano Lodi ’05 Zinfandel--California

Concannon ’05 Petite Sirah—Central Coast

’07 Root:1 Cabernet Sauvignon

The Bounty of Oregon

2008-11-28T02:10:00.000-08:00

Pebblestone ’07 Viognier

Capitello ’07 Pinot Gris

The beautiful pale straw color and intense aroma of passionfruit are so inviting with this wine. Aromas of nectarines and floral perfume - honeysuckle notes fill the glass. In the mouth, this wine is bright, round and balanced, exploding with fruit flavors of apricot-pear and passionfruit that lingers well into the long finish.

A to Z ’07 Pinot Noir

Cliff Creek ’03 Claret

Abacela ’04 Umpqua Cuvee Syrah

The 2004 Syrah Umpqua Cuvée includes fruit from Abacela’s estate Fault Line Vineyards as well as Steelhead Run Vineyard. The finished blend features vivid blue and black fruit aromas accompanied by hints of smoke, pepper, and red licorice. The palate is completely fruit driven with nicely balanced acidity and a soft, approachable tannin structure.

Andrew Rich ’06 Late Harvest Gewurztraminer

Wines for Thanksgiving

2008-11-21T02:16:00.000-08:00

Lot 205 Chardonnay

Showing a particularly ripe, generous aroma of baked apple, ripe citrus, pineapple, toasty oak and a touch of butterscotch, the wine is clearly intended for near-term drinking. Lush and smooth on the palate, its crème brulee oak notes and fruit keynotes of baked pear and pineapple make it a great partner for meatier grilled fish such as ahi or opah, and equally delicious with lighter poultry dishes.

Bodega LAN ’05 Crianza

Jonesy Port

Salmon Creek Chardonnay—California

A lush and smooth California chardonnay, easy to drink and easy to pair with food. Soft tones of vanilla and pineapple, with mellow acidity. Great with mild, soft cheeses and pairs well with lighter poultry dishes.

Loosen Bros Dr. L ’07 Riesling—Germany

Dr. L embodies the elegant and racy style of Riesling from the steep, slate-soil vineyards of the Mosel valley. It is fruity and low in alcohol, with a refreshing crisp taste that cools the palate, making it excellent for spicy and flavorful foods this holiday season.

Bergstrom “O” Pinot Noir—Willamette Valley

Trick or Treat!!

2008-10-31T18:36:00.000-07:00

Chateau de la Vielle Tour ’07 White Bordeaux
A blend of 60% Sauvignon and 40% Semillon, the typical white wine grapes of Bordeaux. This wine develops fresh and fruity aromas and a nice Sauvignon smell. The mouth is fleshy and round, evolving towards very long pineapple and grapefruit notes.

Pinot Evil Pinot Grigio NV
See no Evil, Hear no Evil, Speak no Evil. The 3 wise monkey proverb was introduced to Japan by a Buddhist monk from China in the 8th Century. Because wines from the Pinot family can be so good, but yet so difficult to raise and make, many winemakers believe this family is blessed and cursed, if not downright Evil. This Pinot Grigio is fresh, with crisp acidity, and a soft friendly palate.

Vampire ’05 Cabernet Sauvignon
This bottle possesses the hallmark characteristic of the Cabernet variety, a wild spicy nose with bell pepper tones that the French call "Sauvage." Intensely dark purple in color, this full-bodied wine has a rich fruit flavor and complex oak structure.

Mommy’s Time Out Rosso
We all know that being a Mommy is a difficult job. A Mommy’s Time Out is a well-deserved break. This primitivo from the Puglia region of Italy has tastes of jammy raspberry fruit and lots of spice. It is fresh, fruity and has well-balanced acidity.

Temptation ’05 Zinfandel
A blend of 46% Dry Creek, 33% Alexander Valley grapes, and 21% Solano County grapes, the 2005 vintage of Temptation Zinfandel is loaded with plum, cocoa and most prominently, Bing cherry character. The mouth feel is plush and the finish long. Temptation Zin is a perfect complement to what is AVV’s trio of Zinfandels. Sin Zin, Redemption and Temptation.

14 Hands ’05 Merlot
14 Hands Merlot exhibits classic Washington aromas of blackberries and dark stone fruits. Blackberries are repeated on the palate and joined by touches of cherries and spice. While soft and luxurious in the mouth, this wine has a firm backbone of tannins.

Willamette Valley Varietals

2008-09-26T11:56:00.000-07:00

Bethel Heights Pinot Gris ‘07
The aromatic profile first reveals minerality and lemon rind, then unfolds with tropical aromas of mango and passion fruit. The palate is defined by a core of bright acidity. The flavor profile is exotic, with flavors of Asian and Bartlett pears, green apple, and cantaloupe. Fresh, vibrant, with great melon fruit, but with sturdy backbone.

The Four Graces Pinot Blanc ‘06
Pale yellow. Impressively focused lime, pink grapefruit and white peach aromas are deepened by sweet butter and floral honey. Brisk citrus and peach skin flavors are precise and pure, with a snap of dusty minerality adding vibrancy. Turns richer on the finish, leaving behind a musky mango quality. Offers very good complexity and nicely balances richness and energy. 89 Points, Steven Tanzer

Mekinzie Oregon Pinot Noir ‘05
Rich red fruit, hints of strawberry and spice, complimented with a hint of oak. Momtaze is a medium body pinot, characterized by soft, sweet, tannins. This wine possesses the classic charm of the Pinto Noir grape. Drink now.

Elk Cove Pinot Noir ‘06
In the nose, there's sweet lychee, intense essence of passionfruit, and hints of citrus, with an undercurrent of lemon flowers. In the mouth, a wonderful rich mouth feel. What's most striking about this wine is the range of flavors that focus and then diffuse, constantly changing. There's so much going on here, it's hard to describe the many subtle variations of flavors. Fruit mingles with mineral, hints of creaminess, refreshing citrus, and crisp, uplifting acidity. 91 Pts. ~ Wine & Spirits ~ April 2008, 108 Best of the Year Pinot Noirs

Sokol-Blosser Meditrina

Everyone knows about Bacchus, the Roman god of wine and intoxication. Who knew there was also Meditrina, Roman goddess of wine and health! Overshadowed for too long by Bacchus's flamboyance, Meditrina deserves to take her rightful place in the wine world. Sokol-Blossor decided to help her get there by creating a red wine in her honor. There is a core of rich, lush berry from the Syrah - the Zinfandel provides spice, tannin and structure. And the Pinot Noir brings flowers, earth and elegance. It all adds up to a luscious, juicy, easy-drinking mouthful of red wine that's both bright and vibrant yet round and soft.

Raptor Ridgs Blanchefleur Late Harvest Pinot Blanc
Voluptuous with honey and almonds on the nose, on the palatte broad and fleshy with hints of orange peel, and baklava pastry in the finish. Made in the style of ice wine, picked, trucked to commercial freezer locker taken off the vine and frozen. The grapes are then pressed while frozen. Not as sweet as some ice wines. Great with soft cheese and fresh fruit, drizzle over peaches.

Bottle Shock - Feature Film about the Paris Wine Tasting of 1976

2008-08-01T01:48:00.000-07:00

For wine connoisseurs and true Napa Valley Wine fans, on August 6th, a dramatic narrative of the story that shocked France will hit theaters nationwide.

The Paris Wine Tasting of 1976 or the "Judgment of Paris" was a wine competition organized in Paris in 1976 by Steven Spurrier, a British wine merchant, in which French judges did blind tasting of top-quality chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon wines from France and from California. California wines rated best in each category, which caused surprise as France was generally regarded as being the foremost producer of the world's best wines. Spurrier sold only French wine and believed that the California wines would not win.

Now, a full-length feature film called Bottle Shock tells the dramatic and entertaining story to a new generation of wine enthusiasts. Based on a true story of love, victory and fermentation.

There are certain moments in history when America has proven itself to the world: Neil Armstrong setting foot on the Moon; or the US Men’s Hockey team beating the Soviet Union in the 1980 Olympics. One such moment, however, never got the recognition it deserved: In 1976, a small American winery bested the exalted French wines of the time and sent the wine industry into a tizzy - putting California wines on the map for good. Based on a true story, Bottle Shock chronicles the events leading up to the famous ‘Judgment of Paris’ tastings, told through the lives of father and son, Jim and Bo Barrett. A former real estate attorney, Jim (Bill Pullman) sacrificed everything to realize his dream of creating the perfect hand-crafted chardonnay. His business, however, is struggling, and he’s not only trying to overcome differences with his slacker son (Chris Pine), but is also fighting off the creditors. Meanwhile in Paris, unwitting British wine shop owner Steven Spurrier (Alan Rickman) hopes to revive his own failing business by sponsoring a competition which will pit the traditional French powerhouse against the California upstarts. Little did Steven and Jim realize that they were both on course to change the history of wine forever.

For more info go to the Bottle Shock Movie Official Website

Grab Bag Wines

2008-07-25T00:13:00.000-07:00

A delightful selection from Europe, the Pacific Northwest, and even a tasty blend from below the border in Chile.

Domaines Astruc Rose ’07 - France
Made with Syrah, this is more of a feisty rosé that shows tight red berry flavours, raspberries and redcurrants on the palate with a fresh spicy bite to the finish. It will go really well with fleshy white fish such as monkfish, but of course you can always just chill it down and sip it in the garden with your friends in the sunshine!

Arborcrest Sauvignon Blanc – Washington
The 2005 Sauvignon Blanc is a product produced solely from the Bacchus Vineyard in the Columbia Valley. The deep sandy soils and mature vines allow the grapes to yield polished flavors that are fresh and lively with enticing grapefruit, pineapple and spicy characters that unfold nicely on the smooth finish. It is Arbor Crest’s time honored tradition of producing this exceptional Sauvignon Blanc.

Raymond R Collection Chardonnay ‘06 - California
Roy Raymond, Sr. and his sons, Roy Jr., and Walter founded Raymond Vineyard in 1971. Roy Raymond Sr. came to Napa Valley in 1933 and started as a cellar worker at Beringer Vineyards. The grapes for R Collection Chardonnay are all estate grown in Monterey California. The wine is cold fermented to preserve the rich, ripe fruit of Monterey only half of the wine sees aged French oak for 3 months to impart subtle oak and vanilla flavors. Great with seafood, chicken, light soups and salads.

Tin Roof Merlot ‘05 - California
Tin Roof Merlot 2005 was produced from a blend of North Coast and Central Coast grapes. Merlot thrives in these climates, especially in moist alluvial soils. This wine is boldly flavored, smoothly textured and unusually complex. Tin Roof wines are designed to please wine lovers seeking distinctive varietal character. The wine is ripe, luscious with black cherry and plum flavors on the front-palate giving way to tobacco and herbal spice on the finish. Try this with your meatloaf, grilled meats or pork. 90pts Wine Enthusiast.

Di Majo Norante Sangiovese ‘06 - Italy
Di Majo Norante is a noble family dedicated to the cultivation of vines since the 1800’s. Alessio Di Majo has hired renowned enologist Riccardo Cotarella as a consultant in order to ensure consistent high quality production for all the estate’s wines. The Sangiovese shows the effort with classic violet and wild berries showing and finishing with spice and leather. It is very smooth and would pair well with pasta, pizza, sausage and grilled meats.

2 Brothers Big Tattoo Red ‘05 - Chilean
This wine comes from two brothers who wanted to pay homage, in a non-serious way, to their late mother who suffered from cancer. They decided to label and bottle their own wine and donate proceeds to Virginia Hospice and a breast cancer research foundation. The wine is 50% Cabernet and 50% Syrah aged in French and American Oak. Nice berry and plums, as well as cocoa and tobacco form on the finish

Southern Oregon's Finest

2008-05-23T02:56:00.000-07:00

Eden Vale Viognier 2006
This wine demonstrates the classic Rhone-styled Viognier that people love. The rich viscosity accentuates forward notes of apricot and peach together with melon, drawing into a lingering finish of lemon flower and citrus notes. This wine’s popularity is won because of its full front to back palate experience.

Devitt Chardonnay 2006
Once again Layne Vineyards is the source of grapes. They whole cluster pressed the grape juice into small oak casks for fermentation. This wine is heavy bodied, with tropical fruit flavors and a hint of oak. The wine is un-fined and un-filtered and will throw a sediment in the bottle with time.

The Academy Pinot Noir 2005
From their Applegate vineyard and winery, Betty and Barney Smith grow and produce this exceptional Pinot Noir…although not what you might expect. The wine is dark, juicy and extracted, showing tons of berry upfront. It finishes long and clean and will pair with a wide range of grilled meats or poultry.

Abacela Merlot 2005
A cool ripening period preserved the grapes’ natural acidity and delicate aromas. You’ll find deep ripe currant, blackberry, and slightly jammy blueberry aromas with herbal, spice, and toasty hints. This wine will age gracefully over the next three to five years and be ideal with pan roasted pork medallions and herbed compound butter.

Valley View Syrah 2003
Syrah is Southern Oregon's Pinot Noir: a grape that always shows terrior (the soils and area where it is grown) and the specifics variation of that vintage. The 2003 vintage was perfect for a "Rhone" style Syrah. Generally this means that this wine is more balanced and less "jammy," more Earthy, meaty flavors and the fruit is not as sweet. This is a serious wine that is destined to win you over.

Velo Red Wine 2004
The name is a nod to the bicycle Gus uses to make his frequent vineyard rounds. Plummy garnet color with lively reflection, pink rim. Bright, sophisticated aromas of plum-skin and black cherry play off the perfume of fresh raspberries, with notes of cocoa, vanilla bean and baking spices. Generous in themouth as the flavor fans across the palate: dark, rich and smooth. Finishes full of lively fruit with a food-friendly structure and balance that invites another sip.

Grab Bag Wines

2008-01-18T00:10:00.000-08:00

Ciao Bella Pinot Grigio ’06
One sip of this crisp and refreshing Pinot Grigio sourced from the famed Venetia region in Northeastern Italy and you’ll find yourself zooming effortlessly through the rolling hillsides where the wine grapes are grown. Bright Aromas of jasmine lead to notes of lemon custard on the nose. Key lime, green apple and lychee fill the front palate rounded out by creamy citrus flavors.

Campos Reales Tempranillo ’06
Bright purple. Youthful and grapey on the nose, with primary cherry and blackberry aromas tinged by cracked pepper. Fresh, juicy and spicy, with a suggestion of tobacco on the finish. Intense and complex for the price. 87 Pts. - Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar

Don Miguel Gascon Malbec ’06
This is a great Mendoza Malbec; flavors are rich, ripe, and chocolaty. There is good acidity and balance as well as nice chewy texture. The wine is a little rustic, with a fair bit of tannic bite, but manageable, especially with food.

Farness Montepulciano D’Abruzzo ’05
100% Montepulciano grapes from the Ortona, San Salvo and Pollutri districts of Abruzzi. Ruby red with garnet reflections, intense and persistent fragrance, fruity (red fruit and prunes) with vanilla essence. Well-bodied, tannic and well-balanced, rather intense and persistent, ready to drink. Serve with salami, savory first courses, meat and cheese.

Cycles Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon ’05
It's not quite a cult Napa Cab, but you'd be surprised how close the profile fits with this soft, sumptuous wine. Like its competitors costing 10 times as much, it's velvety smooth, with enormously ripe cassis, milk chocolate, cherry pie, vanilla and cinnamon spice flavors.

Kamiak Cellar Select ’05
2005 was another in a series of ideal growing years in Washington State. Warm, even spring conditions led to a good fruit set. Soft and supple, the nose hints of vanilla and toast with notes of berry and cherry in the background. Flavors of berry and cherry with undertones of toasty oak.

Big Winter Reds

2008-01-04T01:09:00.000-08:00

Warthog ’04 Shiraz

Created from meticulously selected grapes, this wine was harvested and bottled in the pristine Breede River Valley, where wild flowers, vineyards, and even our little Warthog, all co-exist in perfect harmony. This wine beckons with characteristic Shiraz aromas that are beautifully translated on the velvety smooth palate where fine-grained tannins harmonise with a slight hint of French oak.

Wente Livermore Valley ’03 Zinfandel

This vintage has a dark red color and aromas of blackberry jam, dried cranberry, and vanilla cream aromas. These lead to flavors of black pepper and dried berries. Overall, this Zinfandel has a great balance of fruit and tannins and an enduring and viscous finish.

Kaiken ’05 Cabernet Sauvignon

It brings notes of ripe plums to the nose, along with subtle spicy hints and black olives. The wood integrates itself harmoniously, contributing a touch of bitter chocolate and vanilla. In the mouth it is well rounded, with a typical aftertaste and long finish. A memorable wine...

Kangarilla Road ’04 Shiraz

Kangarilla Road Vineyard & Winery is based in McLaren Vale South Australia. It was established by Helen and Kevin O'Brien in 1997. 2004 vintage was a longer season than usual with cool conditions during ripening. The 04 Shiraz is drinking well now and will continue to do so for the next three to five years however the length and intensity of fruit with the abundance of soft tannins will allow for cellaring of up to 8 years.

Elk Cove La Sirene

This Cotes du Rhone style Blend is 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache. It has an impressive nose of spicy liquorice, which develops with decanting into a full on spicy. On the palate there is a fantastic fusion of subtle oak and big fruit flavors.

Ten Mile ’05 Broken Road

“The Broken Road” is a blend of Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Barbera, Malbec and Carignane. Deep black fruits are well displayed on the palate in a medium bodied, supple style and nicely structured acidity ensures depth and dimension you don’t find in wines of this price.

Grab Bag Wines

2007-11-09T23:44:00.000-08:00

This post's "Grab Bag" features some delicious reds from Italy, a country know for wines of special character.

Banfi ’04 Centine
The calcareous soil and temperate micro-climate of Tuscany rewards the wine grape with unequaled fruitiness. Among the noble grape varieties that thrive here are Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Centine is a bright ruby-red youthful wine, intensely fruity with a lingering finish - a testament to its overall balance. It is an ideal companion to pasta, grilled or roasted red and white meats.

Renzo Masi ’06 Chianti
Beautiful blackberry and raspberry character, with just a hint of black licorice. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and a long, caressing finish.

Forte Canto ’01 Primitivo Salento
Cultivated largely in Southern Italy and Sicily, Primitivo is believed to the be the grandfather grape to California Zinfandel. Light raisins, berries and vanilla oak follow through to a full-bodied palate, with round tannins and a raisiny finish. Big and juicy.

Monte Oliveto Maggiore ’05 Toscana Rosso
A blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Merlot, the wine is bright ruby red in color with intense perfumes of red fruit like black cherry and raspberry with a hint of cocoa. The tannins are well balanced by alcohol with a persistent finish.

Vietti Tre Vigne ’05 Barbera D’Asti
A rich, polished red, with a solid core of ripe berry. Full-bodied, with a fresh palate and
a long, fruity finish. The wood shows now but very serious indeed.

Farnese Casale Vecchio’06 Montepulciano D’Abruzzo
Ruby red with garnet reflections, intense, persistent and fruity fragrance, faded flowers, licorice and spice scent, full-bodied, ready to drink at its release or aged 3/4 years. Best served with: savory first courses, meat and grilled food, excellent with seasoned cheese. Great with Smoked Duck Breast!!

Magnificent Malbec

2007-10-19T02:06:00.000-07:00

Abacela Malbec 2005

Alta Vista Premium Malbec 2004

Alamos Seleccion Malbec 2006

Viu Manent Secreto Malbec 2006

Broquel Malbec 2005

Pascual Toso Reserve Malbec 2005

P.S. I Love You (Petite Sirah)

2007-09-14T18:41:00.000-07:00

Concannon Petite Sirah ’03
Be prepared for a tasty, totally opaque, inky-black wine that shows up in the glass. The nose displays dark plums and dark berries, bittersweet chocolate, and some spicy oak. Medium-bodied, well-balanced, velvety mouth feel.

Spellbound Petite Sirah ’03
This 2003 exemplifies the irresistible characteristics that are Petite Sirah. The purple color catches you immediately and your eyes begin to taste. Aromas of violet and rose jump out of the glass. Flavors of fresh berries, along with mocha and coffee dance on your palate. A broad structure with integrated, delicate tannins, create a great mouth feel and an unmistakable desire for the next sip.

Red Rover Petite Sirah ’03
On the nose, luscious boysenberry is accented with hints of black pepper, mocha and violets. Trademark inky and jammy flavors fill the mouth with ripe fruit and berries, layered with spicy notes of anise and a rich undercurrent of oak. The tannins are smooth and supple; creating a wine that is the perfect accompaniment to a wide range of dishes including roast lamb, pork and game.

Foppiano Petite Sirah ’03
Foppiano is a leader in the Petite Sirah movement, with a long history of producing this dark, dry, full-bodied wine. This one's powerful in coffee and blackberry fruit, and scoury in acids and tannins. It will easily ride out the next 15 years, but will never lose its rusticity.

David Bruce Petite Sirah ’03
Dark plum purple, complex, effusive aromas mingle cedar, wood, eucalyptus, herbs, asparagus, flowers, mild berries and smoke. Clean, deep, mildly grapey, peppery, delicious and straightforward. Medium to full body, slightly rich, well-balanced, tannic, with a little bite in the long, very dry finish.

Viano Petite Sirah ’03
Using the most natural, cultural practices possible and combined with traditional winemaking techniques, which includes natural yeast and aging in small oak cooperage, makes this petite sirah one to try. The flavors are of dark ripe berries and smokiness. The tannins are subtle and has an oaky finish that would pair well with spicy dishes.

Oregon Pinot Noirs

2007-07-27T00:25:00.000-07:00

As Pacific Northwest wineries come into their own, one varietal sure does like to shine in the Willamette Valley and surrounding regions.

Henry Estate ’02 Barrel Select Pinot Noir
Voluptuous, intense and complex, with aromas of cherries and vanilla oak. The palate has rich, ripe fruit with spicy nuances and a long, round finish. Aged in American oak instead of French. This wine is certified 100% organic.

A to Z ’05 Oregon Pinot Noir
“A to Z Oregon Pinot Noir has clear, dark garnet color with flashes of purple. Initial aromatics of ripe red fruits, violets, earth, blueberries and blackberries are followed by more subtle notes of smoke, lavender and fresh spices with hints of oak and cassis. The wine is balanced, structured and succulent offering a lovely entry, interesting mid-palate and great length. Ripe tannins, balanced acidity and depth of structure offer a beautiful balance between concentration and elegance.” -Winery x

Willamette Valley Vineards ’05 Oregon Pinot Noir
This clear ruby-color wine offers ripe red berries and fresh herbs, bright fruit mingling with an appropriate herbaceous character, in the aroma and flavor. Well balanced on the palate, not overblown at a reasonable 13.5% alcohol. Mouth-watering acidity, sweet red-berry fruit and subtle spice linger in a long, clean finish.

Academy ’04 Estate Pinot Noir
The Academy of wine is a tiny vineyard in the Applegate that is owned and operated by Barney and Betty Smith. The site gets plenty of heat, the vines are mature, and the wines are reminiscent of Walla Walla Valley reds. The Pinot noirs are very accessible, easy drinking, well integrated and fruity. They are fruit forward, medium bodied and show a fair amount of spiciness.

Lemelson ’05 Six Vineyard Pinot Noir
It is produced from grapes that come from six prime Willamette Valley vineyards. It is elegant, balanced and full of juicy cherry fruit. It has enough structure and tannin to develop for up to five years, but is very enjoyable now.

Elk Cove ’05 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
A nose of black fruit and earth leads to a palate with sweet black cherries intertwined with tar and spice notes and a bit of tobacco. Wine Enthusiast gave this wine 90 points.

Grab Bag Wines

2007-07-20T23:38:00.000-07:00

Our "Grab Bag" selections are just that, no real theme to go with these wines, except that they're all quite tasty. Some airy whites, some heavy reds, and some in-between blends.

La Yunta ’06 Torrontes
Near colorless in the glass with a slight straw tinge, this wine has a spring-like nose of fresh pears, green apple, green melon and minerals. In the mouth it is crisp with a moderate acidity and bright primary flavors of pears, apple, star fruit, and rainwater. It also seems to have just a touch of residual sugar as it finishes crisp but a little sweet.

Fat Bastard ’05 Chardonnay
To craft the Fat bastard Chardonnay, grapes are sourced from all over the Languedoc-Rousillon, from the banks of the Rhone in the east to Carcassonne in the west. This little French chardonnay is Round in the mouth with white flower aromas & long, toasty finish.

Montes ’04 Classic Merlot
A young Merlot with six months American oak aging. Elegant, refined and a marked fruitiness almost irresistible to Merlot lovers and to those who sample it for the first time. Strong, spicy black pepper, full of harmony and soft to the palate. 15% Cabernet Sauvignon has been added, to better marry with the oak, and give structure and finesse that will also permit long-term aging.

LAN Rioja ’04 Crianza
LAN is not a Spanish word but rather an acronym for Logrono, Alava, and Navarra which are the three Spanish provinces that the Rioja region intersects. A medium-bodied wine with a bright garnet-purple color. The wine broadcasts cherry and berry aromas, spices, earthiness, and toasted oak.

Ten Mile ’05 Broken Road
“The Broken Road” is a blend of Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Barbera, Malbec and Carignane. Deep black fruits are well displayed on the palate in a medium bodied, supple style and nicely structured acidity ensures depth and dimension you don’t find in wines of this price.

Cycles Gladiator ’05 Cabernet Savigon
The 2004 Cycles-Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon has lovely aromas of raspberry, mint, and mocha. Flavors of dark fruits layered on more dark fruits wrapped in a cloak of dusty tannins. Lush and mouth filling from start to finish, there is enough acid to support the whole structure but doesn’t finish sharp. The wine drops off at just the right place.

Bold Summer Reds

2007-07-14T23:31:00.000-07:00

Hearty and delicious red wines are great alongside the BBQ during the summer months. Below are a few selections of some bolder reds to accent your grilling, and some more fruitful reds that are great with a simple picnic bistro platter.

Montevina ’03 Amador County Barbera - Asserts layers of black cherry scent laced with nutmeg and vanilla extract hints. Spice components and distinct creaminess to the palate recalls black cherry ice cream with bits of white chocolate and toffee.

Hey Mambo ’05 Bistro Style Red - The color of garnet-dyed velvet, this wine has aromas reminiscent of an old-fashioned soda shop, fresh baked cherry pie, rootbeer, pipe tobacco, caramel and vanilla. This sultry red has intensity and depth, with flavors of pomegranate, black cherry, cola and dark chocolate laced with clove, espresso, and deeply caramelized French oak.

Pascual Toso ’05 Maipu Malbec - “A fresh, modern style, with ripe blackberry and boysenberry flavors backed by sweet toast and spice notes. Ripe fruit and licorice notes linger on the fleshy finish. Drink now. 88 Points.” - The Wine Spectator

Cousino Macul ’05 Cabernet Sauvignon - “The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Antiguas Reserva offers toast, spice box, cedar, and black currant scents. This is followed by a spicy, ripe, firm wine with layers of flavor. With very good depth and a long finish, this should evolve for several more years but is hard to resist now. Superb Value. 90 Points. ” - Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

Castano Solanera ’04 - “The 2004 Solanera is a blend of 65% Monastrell, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 15% Tintorera raised in French oak. More complex than its siblings, this purple-colored wine offers fragrant aromas of spice box, smoke, blueberry pie and blackberry liqueur. Full-bodied, the wine is plush and full-flavored with enough structure to support several years of additional bottle age. It should drink well for 8-10 years. 92 Points.” - Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

Pepperwood Grove ’05 Syrah - With a dark garnet color, this wine exudes raspberry jam and earthiness on the nose. The flavors are reminiscent of dark blackberry fruit with dark chocolate and fire roasted red pepper notes finishing with touches of the Lodi terrior, cloves, and honey-roasted walnuts.

A Taste of Rosenblum Cellars!

2007-07-07T23:18:00.000-07:00

Rosenblum Cellars - http://www.rosenblumcellars.com

From humble beginnings as a passionate home-winemaking operation Rosenblum Cellars has evolved into one of North America’s most acclaimed wine producers. Working with fruit from all over California, founders Kent and Kathy Rosenblum continue to helm this one-of-a-kind shipyard winery in Alameda, CA.

Rosenblum ’05 Kathy’s Cuvee Viognier -An exotic and seductive wine, beautiful aromas of apricots, peaches and citrus fruit are found in concert with vanilla bean and cinnamon. The palate is loaded with round flavors of honeyed orchard and tropical fruits as well as creamy vanilla and toasted oak notes.

Rosenblum Cotes du Bone Roan Blanc ’04 - This lovely wine shows refreshing pear, melon and mango in the bouquet, followed by flavors of apple, peach and creamy vanilla. This is an ideal wine paired with seafood, including oysters on the half shell and curried Dungeness crab.

Rosenblum ’05 Cotes du Bone Roan Rouge - This lovely Northern Rhône style wine is fruit-forward and driven by elegance and a soft mouth feel. The bouquet shows ripe cherries with hints of strawberries, rose petal and violets. The flavors are cherry cola with elements of wild herbs and smoked bacon.

Rosenblum ’05 North Coast Appelation Series Zinfandel - This is a very dark, rich and fruit-driven wine that reflects the structure and character of the cool climate vineyards used to craft this distinctive North Coast blend. The wine shows flavors of blackberry, currant, ripe raspberry spice and elements of vanilla and mint.

Rosenblum ’02 Fess Parker Santa Barbara Syrah - Santa Barbara's warm sunny days, cool evenings and perfect soil conditions with proper farming techniques produce fruit full of intensity. The Syrah grapes grown in these perfect conditions transform into an amazingly beautiful wine. The enticing opaque purple color and room-filling aromas of blackberries, smoke, plum, licorice and cracked black pepper are stunning. The lush palate, loaded with black and blueberries, roasted herbs, and black currants lightly laced in vanilla and spice is compelling. This is the perfect wine for roasted meats, pasta in rich red sauces and ripe cheeses.

Rosenblum ’05 Gallagher Reserve Black Muscat - This fine Black Muscat dessert wine is handcrafted from select plantings of Black Hamburg Muscat grapes. The rich bouquet of exotic berries and spices is very effusive. Flavors of ripe berries, creamy cherries and hints of chocolate are long on the palate. This is a wonderful wine to share with a good friend on a cold night around a warm fire. Perfect when paired with artisan cheeses or fresh berry desserts.