Muscadet

Loire Valley

Grape:? Melon de Bourgogne (Melon)

Style:? Dry. medium bodied, crisp - refreshing with a ?minerality?

Food:? All Seafood, oysters!, vegan fare, fusion-cuisine...

Muscadet, Domaine Hautes Noelles "Cotes de Grandlieu" Domaine Batard?

Open a bottle of the Domaine les Hautes N?es Muscadet and you can practically hear the waves crashing. Taste the sea spray on your lips while you crush seashells under your feet. The wine?s unique hint of sea salt makes it both thirst quenching and seafood friendly. Batard?s practice of aging sur lie helps to maintain freshness while giving the wine an added richness and complexity. What?s more, a bit of ?perlant? from sur lie aging adds a tickling freshness to this wonderful wine.??Pale sunshine in the glass, the Muscadet C? de Grandlieu exhales an invigorating breath of squeezed lemons and crushed oyster shells with a rich mouth of grapefruit zest and lime juice. Batard?s practice of aging sur lie helps to maintain freshness while giving the wine an added richness and complexity.?I?love to call Serge Batard?s wine "Batard Muscadet," as we know it sounds like Batard-Montrachet?another classic French wine with uncommon richness.??Like his hero, Coche-Dury of Meursault, Batard has experimented with extra long fermentations and even aged his Muscadet in oak barrels. As a result, he has found what we think is the perfect formula for super-ripe and personality-rich Muscadet.??Nantais sits at the mouth of the Loire as it pours into the Atlantic. There is a strong sense of the sea throughout the Muscadet vineyards. The proximity to the ocean guarantees that Muscadet will always have a good balance of fruit and acidity.

Henschke

Fall 2007

Australia’s Superstar

(3 btls) #8639 Henschke "Hill of Grace" 2002 $400/Bottle*

98 Points: Wine Advocate #173 (Oct. 2007).“One of Australia’s legendary icons is Henschke’s Shiraz Hill of Grace. The 2002 is 100% Shiraz aged 18 months in 100% new French and American oak. It boasts an inky/blue/purple color as well as extraordinary uplifted aromatics of acacia flowers, ground pepper, espresso roast, blackberries, cassis, chocolate, and smoke. This stacked and packed, full-bodied Shiraz possesses formidable concentration, moderately high but silky tannin, and a finish that exceeds one minute. A modern day legend, it should easily evolve for 20-25 years.”

 

 (14 cs) #8642 Henschke “Tilly’s Vineyard” 2006 $18/Bottle

87 Points: Wine Advocate #173 (Oct. 2007).““The white wines begin with the 2006 Tilly’s Vineyard, a blend of 55% Semillon, 25% Chardonnay, and 20% Sauvignon Blanc, which spent 8 months in seasoned French oak. It exhibits a lovely perfume of mineral, citrus, and lemon-lime. Medium-bodied and dry, the flavors offer some complexity and the finish is refreshing.”

(10 cs.) #8638 Henschke “Mount Edelstone” Shiraz 2004 $75/Bottle

93 Points: Wine Advocate #173 (Oct. 2007).“The 2004 Mount Edelstone is 100% Shiraz aged for 18 months in 80% new French oak. Purple-colored, fragrant and complex aromatically with notes of toasty oak, tar, licorice, bacon, and blueberry, the wine is rich and mouth-filling with enough structure for 8-10 years of evolution in the bottle. It will drink well through 2030.”

(26 cs) #8640 Henschke “Keyneton Estate” Cab-Shiraz-Merlot 2004 $34.00/Bottle 

 (16 cs.) #8630 Henschke “Henry’s Seven Shiraz-Grenache-Viognier” 2005 $26.50/Bottle

90 Points: Wine Advocate #173 (Oct. 2007).“The 2005 Henry’s Seven is a blend of 65% Shiraz, 25% Grenache, 5% Mourvedre, and 5% Viognier. Dark ruby-colored, it has an attractive bouquet of spice box, damp earth, floral notes, black cherry, and blueberry. Supple and sweet on the palate, it has layers of flavor and a lengthy finish. It should be drunk in its first 4-6 years of life.”

(6 cs.) #8634 Henschke “Cyril Henschke” Cabernet Sauvignon 2003  $74/Bottle

92 Points: Wine Advocate #173 (Oct. 2007).“The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon “Cyril Henschke” includes 9% Merlot in the blend. It spent 18 months in new French oak. The wine offers a subtle perfume of toasty oak, wood smoke, cassis, clove, and black currants. Elegant on the palate with complex, intense flavors, it has enough structure to evolve for 5-7 years and provide pleasure through 2025.”

(5 cs.) #8632 Henschke` “Johann’s Garden GSM” 2005         $32/Bottle

90 Points: Wine Advocate #173 (Oct. 2007). “The 2005 Johann’s Garden is composed of 68% Grenache, 19% Mourvedre, and 13% Shiraz. Dark crimson-colored, it has enticing notes of spice box, damp earth, crushed rocks, blueberry, and blackberry. Elegantly styled, the wine is nicely balanced, forward, and ready to drink.”

 

(10 cs.) #8667 Henschke “Littlehampton Innes” Pinot Gris 2006 $26/Bottle

90 Points: Wine Advocate #173 (Oct. 2007).“The 2006 Pinot Gris “Littlehampton Innes” is blended with 11% Riesling. It offers up notes of orange peel, tangerine, and citrus. Ripe and supple-textured, it has good acidity, ripe fruit flavors, and excellent length. Drink it over the next 3-4 years.”

 

 (6 cs.) #8643 Henschke “Julius Eden Valley” Riesling 2006 $24/Bottle

90 Points: Wine Advocate #173 (Oct. 2007).“The 2006 Riesling “Julius” is medium straw-colored with aromas of spring flowers, mineral, citrus, and lemon-lime. Nicely balanced by crisp acidity and ripe fruit flavors, it will drink well for 5-7 years.”

 

(2 cs.) #8664 Henschke “LenswoodAbbott’s Prayer” Merlot 2004 $60/Bottle

90 Points: Wine Advocate #173 (Oct. 2007).“The 2004 “Lenswood Abbott’s Prayer” is a blend of 88% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Sauvignon. It was aged for 16 months in French oak, 70% new. Purple-colored, it has an alluring bouquet of pain grille, clove, cassis, red cherries, and black currants. Bordeaux-like, it currently lacks generosity but 4-6 years in the cellar should round it out. It will drink well through 2020.”

 

(5 cs.) #8665 Henschke “Gilles” Pinot Noir 2006 $36.75/Bottle

87 Points: Wine Advocate #173 (Oct. 2007). “Henschke's medium ruby-colored, elegant 1997 Pinot Noir Giles displays sweet raspberry fruit, notes of vanillin/pain grille, and a round, supple, medium-bodied style not dissimilar from a Cote de Beaune. Drink it over the next 3-4 years.”

 

(1 cs.) #8666 Henschke “Lenswood Croft” Chardonnay 2006 $36.75/Bottle

90 Points: Wine Advocate #173 (Oct. 2007).  “The 2006 Chardonnay “Lenswood Croft” was barrel-fermented in 33% new oak, aged on its lees, and stirred monthly. It remained in oak for 8 months. It is medium straw-colored with a perfume of smoke, toast, mineral, green apple, and poached pear. Slightly austere on the palate, the fruit is intense and concentrated. It will evolve for 2-3 years and drink well for 8-10 years.”

  All 6 bottle cases

*  Not Sold by the Case (Bottles Only)

“BIO-DYNAMICALLY FARMED”   --- "BD"

Then there are wines made using the principles of biodynamic agriculture. In most cases, however, one speaks of wine made from biodynamic grapes, rather than of biodynamic wine. Increasingly these are becoming known as BD wines.  The practice of biodynamics in viticulture (grape growing) has become popular in recent years, especially in Europe, particularly in France, but also in the "New World" ie California and Oregon, Australia, Chile, South Africa, Canada and, back in Europe, also in Switzerland, Italy, Austria and Germany. Like biodynamic agriculture in general, biodynamic grape-growing stems from the ideas and suggestions of Rudolf Steiner (1861–1925), who gave his now famous "Agriculture Course" in 1924, predating most of the organic movement. The principles and practices of biodynamics are based on his spiritual/practical philosophy, which includes understanding the ecological, the energetic, and the spiritual in nature.  Many grape growers claim to have tried it and found immediate improvements in the health of their vineyards, specifically speaking in the areas of biodiversity, soil fertility, crop nutrition, and pest, weed, and disease management. Winemakers claim to have noted stronger, clearer, more vibrant tastes, as well as wines that remain drinkable longer. Critics say that many of these improvements would have happened if organic farming was used, without the mysticism involved in biodynamics. Nonetheless, there is an upsurge of interest among grape growers worldwide and in the media, with a number of very high-end, high-profile commercial growers also converting to biodynamic practices.  People may roll their eyes initially, but these labor intensive practices ensure the grower is constantly working his vineyard more vigorously than their counterparts... 

 

#79054 Beckmen Estate Syrah, Santa Ynez Valley  2005 12/750 $18.75/Btl. 100% estate grapes from Purisima Mountain Vineyard and their estate vineyard in Los Olivos. Yields were limited to 2.5 tons per acre in this long growing season. The wine was barrel aged for 12 months in 40% new French oak and 50% one to three year old barrels, and 10% neutral.  The wine was bottled unfined and unfiltered.

 

#79053 Beckmen Estate Grenache, Santa Ynez Valley  2005 12/750 $19/Btl. 100% estate grapes from Purisima Mountain Vineyard.  Made with two Chateauneuf du Pape clones of Grenache: 60% Tablas, 40% Alban. The wine was barrel aged for 10 months in 100% neutral barrels to ensure full varietal character. The wine was bottled unfined and lightly filtered. The Grenache starts off with a big nose of jammy raspberry, bacon fat and floral aromas of violets and spicy lavender. A massive barrage of strawberry and raspberry jam is followed by a well-rounded core of juicy pomegranate. The wine finishes with long, soft tannins and hints of  thyme and white pepper.

#79052 Beckmen Cuvee Le Bec, Santa Ynez Valley  2005 12/750 $14.00/Btl. A Southern Rhone style blend of four of the classified grapes of Chateauneuf du Pape (53% Grenache, 34% Syrah, 8% Mourvedre, 5% Counoise) grown in their Bio-Dynamically farmed Purisima Mountain Vineyard. The Grenache attacks the front palate and fills the aromatics with bright berry fruit, the Mourvedre and Syrah fill the mid palate and finish darkening the fruit, adding spice, while the Counoise provides a supple silky texture.  The wine was barrel aged for 15 months in 15% new French barrels and 85% neutral barrels. Bottled unfined and lightly filtered.

 

#79050 Beckmen Cuvee Le Bec Blanc, Santa Ynez Valley  2005 12/750 $17.00/Btl.  Appealing for its aromas of toasted almonds, white peach and spice. Flavors are focused, with a distinct minerality, and offer a hint of oily richness on the finish. Roussanne, Marsanne and Grenache Blanc.  750 cases made.

 

#79056  Beckmen Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Ynez Valley  2004 12/750 $18.75/Btl. Cabernet from this less appealing zip code equals a great value!  The warm 2004 vintage is their third Cabernet Sauvignon ( 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 2% Syrah ) made solely from grapes grown on their Purisima Mountain vineyard. The wine was barrel aged for 21 months in 60% neutral barrels and 40% new French and American oak and was bottled unfined and unfiltered.

#79057 Beckmen Purisma Mountain Vineyard Grenache, Santa Ynez Valley   2005 6/750 $33.75/Btl.  This is the second release of a new Grenache wine from Beckmen's Purisima Mountain Vineyard. Taking inspiration from his friend and biodynamic consultant Philippe Armunier - who urged him to try some new (to Steve & Mikael) methods to make a more complex, elegant style of Grenache from Purisima - they did not de-stem the fruit, but fermented the whole clusters completely, changing the extraction of the grapes and therefore the wine’s style.  

#79058 Beckmen Purisma Mountain Vineyard Syrah, Santa Ynez Valley  2004 6/750 $33.75/Btl.  Steve Beckmen began farming his vines biodynamically several years ago, converting the entire vineyard by 2006. His 2004 syrah is hard to resist, a selection of the best lots from Purisima Mountain, planted at elevations up to 1,250 feet. The fruit ripened to a plumy succulence and a mouthwatering freshness that more than holds its own against substantial coffee and chocolate influences of oak. It feels both tightly built and luscious...

 

#30466 Solena Pinot Noir “Cuvee Laurent-Daniel”, Yamhill County, Oregon 2004 12/750 $36.00/Btl.  The 2004 Domaine Danielle Laurent offers the classic Pinot Noir characteristics of elegance, softness, and strong fruit profile. The wine has a rich ruby color, which is a result of utilizing rotary barrels for primary fermentation. The nose offers an array of flavors, including red fruit, cassis, and well-integrated oak. Deep cherry flavors are enhanced by the finely-integrated tannins. You can see the best characteristics of the Yamhill-Carlton District so prominently displayed in this wine.  The juice was gravity-fed directly to barrels. 100% Malolactic fermentation occurred for an 11 month period. Aging took place for 13 months in French oak (70% new) from a variety of coopers. The wine was bottled unfiltered and unfined. 

 

#2294 Black Sears Cabernet Sauvignon “Howell Mountain” 2003 $63.00/Bottle  With the 2003 vintage, the first field of cabernet franc on the property, planted in 1998, was harvested and vinified separately from the cabernet sauvignon. 11% of the resulting wine was blended with the cabernet sauvignon at the second racking. The oak regime for both wines consisted of 100% new French oak from coopers Sylvain, Bossuet and Taransaud. The resulting wine was neither fined nor filtered.  The 2003 Cabernet is a powerful and concentrated wine with substantial but supple tannins. The aromas are of black tea, black currants, cassis and roasted coffee. Cedar, lavender and crème brulee notes give complexity to the wine. The attack is rich and soft with both power and elegance. The wine has weight without being ponderous and shows a long supple finish. We find the characteristic mineral note of wines from this property.   While comparisons are not always indicative, the Black Sears family and Ted Lemon believe that this wine is most reminiscent of the Graves region of Bordeaux rather than of the Medoc, St. Emilion, Pomerol or the Napa Valley floor.

 

#40878 Cayuse Syrah "Le Cailloux Vineyard", Walla Walla, WA. 2005 3/750 $58.00/Btl.  French transplant Christophe Baron is at the forefront of showing the potential for Rhone varieties inWashington’s Walla Walla  AVA.  His rocky “Cailloux Vineyard” is closest thing in America to to the riverbed vineyards of Chateauneuf du Pape.  Planted with a crowbar in the ancient, stony riverbed in 1996, it comprises10 acres.  Always a wine of great density and flavor.  It’s chewy in texture, glowing with spicy aromas of plums and currants.

 

#2292 Black Sears Zinfandel “Howell Mountain” 2004 $34.00/Bottle  Howell Mountain Vineyards is one of those special circumstances where an incredible site (Black Sears Vineyard) is paired with a great winemaker (Ted Lemon): the gifted combined with a gift: Isaac Stern or Yehudi Menuhin playing their Stradivarius--- you get the picture!  At 2,400 feet --- Black Sears Vineyard is on the top of the ridge --- and as one of the highest in elevation in all of Napa County, has breathtaking views. . It’s 25 acres in size, primarily planted to "head trained" Zinfandel and is farmed organically (according to bio- dynamic methods). Ted’s talent shows us the possibilities of Zinfandel, pushing the bounds of flavor to areas where Zinfandel is not generally found.  Azinfandel for “terroirists” --- exotic spices of cardamom, cinnamon, and white pepper and coffee, with black fruit undertones. Aminimilistic winemaking approach was taken, bottled unfined and unfiltered.  100% Zinfandel. 

 

#4243 Beaux Freres Pinot Noir “Beaux Freres Vyd.” 2005 6/750  $61.50/Btl.  Mike Etzel is the most passionate and “real” winegrower in the World.  His wines are natural-living things and are built to last. Once in the winery, he doesn’t touch it after being put into the barrel (Many wineries say they don't rack the wine --- which usually means they move it twice! --- well, Beaux Freres doesn't move itever! Aday spent in the vineyard with Michael, has converted -- even the most skeptical -- into BD believers. 

#30408 Bergstrom Pinot Noir “Bergstrom Vyd.” 2005 6/750 $60.00/Bottle 93 Points: Wine Spectator. “Supple, velvety and refined, this is a soft-spoken wine that has a lot to say with its delcate iris and tar-accented black cherry and currant flavors that linger gently on the long, expressive finish. Drink now through 2015. 600 cases made. –HS”

 

#2269 Littorai Chardonnay “Charles Heintz”, Sonoma Coast 2005 12/750 $48.00/Btl.  Charles Heintz’s Vineyard is home to a “who’s-who” of California chardonnay superstars. Located on the edge of the Sonoma Coast and Russian River AVA’s, on a 800’ gently rolling plateau one half mile east of Occidental and seven miles west of the Pacific.  Like Theriot, it’s predominantly Goldridge loam overlying Franciscan shale. The top layer is sandy loam.  It’s one of the older chardonnay sites in the Sonoma Coast AVA, planted in 1983.  All of the chardonnay is Wente clone of unknown origin.  This site consistantly produces chardonnay that is richer and more opulent but with a hidden backbone of acidity --- a chardonnay for foie gras and rich dishes.

 

#2267 Littorai "HirschVyd." Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 1999 12/750 $98.00/Bottle   Owner/winemaker, Ted Lemon has pioneered the Sonoma Coast and bio-dynamic farming in the California wine industry.  Most of the Littorai offerings are vineyard designates --- they are all very nuanced, restrained, elegant efforts that are no doubt the result of Ted’s Burgundian winemaking experiences. Pinot noir of masculine tannins. Aromas of blackberry and herbes de Provence: sage, savory, thyme. This is wine for game dishes, hearty foods and stormy nights.

 

#2260 Littorai "Thieriot Vyd." Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast    1999 12/750  $98.00/Bottle   Peppery, antique drawer, menthol, complex. Medium weight with chewy tannin. Good back palate. Long and supple.  Cam Thieriot’s Vineyard, is located west of the town of Occidental, in the Sonoma Coast AVA, on the south shoulder of a 1200’ ridge. This is the cooler side of the hills around Occidental yet the vineyard is protected from the northwest winds and fog by a ridge to the north.  It overlooks the fog filled gap in the Sonoma hills which leads to Petaluma.  Closest (as the crow flies) to the Pacific Ocean.  The soil is:  Goldridge loam over sandstone, that has a terroir of  Asian spices, cumin, orange peel even mahogany (usually a descriptor reserved for Cabernet Sauvignon based wines). The pinots of Thieriot Vineyard have both richness and tannic structure. Like Savoy Vineyard, the Thieriot wines can pair well with both fish and game.  Farmed bio-dynamically, it was planted in 1991 and 1994.  The pinot clones are:  Swann, Pommard, 114, 777 and Calera. Bruce Neyers’ rides Ted’s coat-tails here, unfortunately his block is “less desireable.”

 

(Currently Sold Out) Domaine Zind-Humbrecht:  Alsace is blessed with a number of truly fine estates. But if you were to pick the one estate that captures the taste of Alsace more accurately and intensely than any of its neighbours, the odds-on favorite would surely be Zind-Humbrecht.  One of the hallmarks of every Zind-Humbrecht wine is its overriding sense of terroir.. . It is managed by Olivier Humbrecht, one of the only Alsace winemakers to attain M.W. status. 

Organic

#39622 Alma Rosa Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2005  $24.75/Bottle  Richard Sanford, ever-the-pioneer, had the first “Certified Organic” vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills.  After selling his name-sake winery, he started over determined to do everything in an environmentally-friendly way. This pinot is entirely from Richard’s 100-acre organically farmed La Encantada Vineyard, located close to the western end of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA.  There are delightful aromas of berries, cherries, and plums with intriguing notes of spice and smoke.  Lively acidity speaks to an age-worthiness and a compatibility with a wide variety of foods. Aging in older French barrels (11 months) keeps the heaviness of oak at bay.  Bottled unfined and unfiltered. 

 

#2546 Sancerre, Domaine Vacheron 2006  $23.50/Bottle  Domaine Vacheron owns some of the best terroir for Sauvignon Blanc, made up of equal parts limestone and flint. Limestone gives the wine its tang while flint provides plenty of minerals that cleanse and invigorate the palate. The cousins Vacheron, Jean-Dominique and Jean-Laurent, are some of the most disciplined growers in the Loire (and completely organic), with yields consistently a third lower than a typical harvest.  Asumptuous mouth of honeyed chalk dust, sliced pears and the noble notes of bright cherries—simply one of the most silex- driven, palate-staining Sancerres we've ever experienced. 

 

#2523 Merlot Vaucluse, Domaine Millier 2004 $10.75/Bottle  Merlot from Chateauneuf du Pape?!  Arnaud Millière’s Merlot vineyards sit right next to his Chateauneuf du Pape plots. These young vines grow on sandy, clay-based soils, and yield some 80 to 120 hectoliters per hectare.  A“joli terroir de Merlot,” says Millière.  Arnaud’s life philosophy is organic—in the fields and in his kitchen, too. He’s a very accomplished chef, and often shares his recipes with us... 

 

#2541 Clos du Cailloux Cotes du Rhone 2005 12/750 $18.50/Btl.  Many of the Vacheron-Pouizin family's old vines are classified, by a quirk of 1923 politics, Côtes-du-Rhône and Côtes-du-Rhône-Villages. It’s why their Côtes-du-Rhône barrel selections show surprisingly like its kin in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Grab a bunch of sun-soaked boysenberries and crush them in your hand. Midnight and mysterious in the glass, the wine’s aromatic notes of cinnamon, nutmeg and black pepper open to warm perfumes of a decadent flourless dark chocolate cake. Ripe, round black fruits, plums and chocolate-covered Bing cherries just drip off the tongue. Bold, rich and pleasurable—this is a must-have for every cellar. This blend contains more than 75% juicy old-vine Grenache, 11% Syrah and the rest Mourvèdre and Carignane.

 

#2542 Clos du Cailloux Chateauneuf du Pape,  2005 12/750 $49.50 / Btl. Caillou tends wonderfully old Grenache vines, some of which are 70 to 100 years old. With older Syrah and Mourvèdre added to the mix, it’s no wonder that Caillou wines are across the board impressive for their power, extract and deep minerality. The estate’s Châteauneuf terroir borders the impressive domaines of Chateau Rayas and Beaucastel.  Blissfully round and beautiful, this Caillou Châteauneuf shares deep, rich aromas of black pepper and cedar smoke, opening to ripe blackberries, grilled plums and spice. What a finish! This wine lingers a lifetime, grinning all the while. Try to take a sip of this wine and not smile. An enticing “Cuvée Unique” from a great vintage!

 

#2800 Honig Sauvignon Blanc 2006 12/750 $10.50/Btl. Green Winery.  Organically-Grown.  100% Estate...Pale straw and moderately viscous, this Sauvignon Blanc is clean with aromas of hay, lemon, dill, and tarragon. Medium bodied, clean, and fresh, the wine has zesty lemon/lime guava fruit and a long refreshing green tea/meyer lemon finish. Grapes: Sauvignon Blanc (97%) and Semillon (3%).

 

#2804 Honig Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 12/750 $25.00/Btl. Another great value, considering prices for Napa Valley Cabernet ... Green Winery.  Organically-Grown.  100% Estate...

"Sustainable"

#6690 DuMOL Chardonnay “Russian River”  2005 12/750 $42.50/Btl. Parker: 92-94 Points (Wine Advocate #168 December 2006). “The 2005 Chardonnay Russian River offers a terrific introduction to this estate’s Burgundian winemaking style. A 3,200-case blend of fruit from the Heintz, Ritchie, and Dutton vineyards, it boasts fabulous fruit along with hints of lemon oil, orange blossoms, tropical fruit, subtle smoky oak, and crushed rocks. This fresh, lively effort appears to be the finest Russian River Chardonnay DuMol has yet produced.

 

#6692 DuMOL Pinot Noir “Russian River”  2005 12/750 $52.00/Btl. 93 Points: Robert Parker.  "The 2005 Pinot Noir Russian River is a blend of six different cool climate vineyards. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by scents of plums, allspice, forest floor, and sassafras. With good acidity, medium to full body, and considerable ripeness, structure, and definition, it should drink well for 5-6 years."     

 

#6702 DuMOL Syrah "eddie's patch" 2004 $68.75/Bottle Parker: 93-95 Points (Wine Advocate #162: Dec. 2005). "Muscular, floral, and primordial is the broodingly black/purple-colored 2004 Syrah Eddie’s Patch. Deep, concentrated, and impressively endowed, with full-bodied power and unctuosity, it should be consumed over the next 7-8 years."

 

39526 Chappellet Signature Cabernet, Pritchard Hill, Napa Valley  2004 12/750 $37.00/Btl. 93 Points: Wine Spectator.   “A supple, graceful style that serves up a complex mix of cherry, currant, herb and plum-scented fruit, picking up a light toasty oak and mocha note  midpalate and finishing with a long, lingering  aftertaste and round tannins.” 

 

#39356 Duckhorn Goldeneye Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley  2004 6/750 $43.50/Btl. 91 Points: Wine Spectator.  'Exhibits dusty berry, cola and wild raspberry flavors in a complex, well-focused style, with nice fruit on the finish."

 

#2475 Veraison Marsanne  “Stagecoach Vyd.” “Black Bart”  2005  12/750 $30/Btl. Stagecoach Vineyard, Block 14. A gently sloping, South facing block in the Eastern part of Stagecoach Vineyard between Pritchard Hill and Atlas Peak.  At 1550  feet above sea level sitting on top of volcanic tufa and rocky basalt soils, this block  provides ideal growing conditions for Marsanne with marked minerality.

 

#2480 Veraison Syrah  “Stagecoach Vyd.” “Black Bart”  2005 6/750 $43.00/Btl. Tucked in the hills above Oakville, between Pritchard Hill and Atlas Peak, is the Stagecoach Vineyard..The dream of the energetic Dr. Jan Krupp, owner of Veraison Winery, this rocky, volcanic soil was labeled initially by local experts as insurmountable.  Planted near the summit of Pritchard Hill, Black Bart Syrah is plucked from vines planted 1700 feet above sea level.  Like the legendary WANTED Black Bart, their first Black Bart Syrahs were highly sought after and almost impossible to find. Unfiltered and unfined it is bold and brash once uncorked. The highest grapes to be plucked from Pritchard Hill truly show the strength, character and surprising elegance of Stagecoach terroir. 498 cases produced.

 

Sustainable / "Oregon LIVE"

 

#30404 Bergstrom "Dr. Bergstrom" Riesling 2006 12 /750 $21.00 / Btl.  Dr. Bergstrom?  A tongue-in-cheek name, in honor of Josh’s friend (Dr. Ernst Loosen --- who’s moving a new project to Oregon) and Josh’s dad -- who’s a doctor.  A ripe vintage, like ‘03’s in Germany, where Kabinetts were really at Spatlese sugar levels. Said Josh: “This will be an amazing vintage for Oregon white wines..and you can quote me on that. The white wines will have amazing aromatics, good acidity and I think good density. Whether or not they will age is yet to be determined of course but I am very excited about the quality.” The 2006 Dr. Bergstrom Riesling has an explosive aromatic profile of lychee nuts, Quince, marshmallow candies, tropical and citrus fruits. It almost smells more like a German Scheurebe. The mouthfeel is rich and ripe with a full-bodied character for a Riesling with the tropical and citrus fruit aromas echoing on the finish. This wine still contains 1.7 grams of sugar per liter and is balanced by a nice ripe acidity.  Harvested over 6 different days in mid October of 2006 from four different sites (Chehalem Mountain Vineyard in the Chehalem Mountains, Vigna Giovanni in the Yamhill Carlton District, Cherry Grove in the Yamhill Carlton District and Territorial Vineyard in Eugene’s Willamette Valley appellation.) This wine was slowly and carefully fermented entirely in small stainless steel tanks and barrels at cool temperatures over a six month period. Malolactic fermentation was blocked.1,100 cases made.

 

#30402 Bergstrom Pinot Noir “Cumberland Reserve” ‘06 12/750 $36.50/Btl.  Those of you who like California pinot noir will like the very-California-like 2006’s coming out of Oregon -- a vintage that was very similar to 2002 & 2003 in Oregon with sugars registering “off the charts.” But unlike ’02 & ’03, there’s more wine!  The 2006 Cumberland Reserve is a multi-appellation blend from the following vineyards: Bergström, de Lancellotti, Shea, Nysa, Durant, Temperance Hill, Anderson, Palmer Creek, Cherry Grove, Pelos Sandberg, Kalita, Lia's, Bishop Creek and Vigna Giovanni. Each vineyard is farmed and harvested by Josh’s strict sustainable (and low-yielding) standards, vinified and barrel-aged separately until blending in Mid-August of 2007. The color is deep ruby red with pale reflections of pink at the rim of the glass. On the nose you will find bright and youthful aromas of bright red cherry, red currant, chocolate and sweet spices such as clove, cinnamon and vanilla.  These aromas echo in the generous mouthfeel with bright red berry and high-toned sweet spices finishing with good acid and fine tannins and a healthy amount of ripeness, characteristic of this warm vintage.  Decantation/aeration highly recommended for consumption during 2007-2008 time span. A welcome relief Cases produced: 5,500.

 

#30400 Bergstrom "Shea Vyds." Pinot Noir 2006 6/750 $45.50/Btl.  Coming on the heels of the highly successful 2004 & 2005 efforts (94 & 92  points Wine Spectator!) with even darker color and incredible spicy, earthy fruit driven aromatics. This wine is definitely the biggest wine of the vintage with incredible black cherry color, rich spice-cake, earth and black fruit aromas and an enormous mouthfeel and structure to age. This wine will definitely be one of the most popular of the vintage (especially since we only bottled 125 cases of it this year!). Bergstrom Winery has the enormous pleasure of leasing 7 beautifully situated acres within the East Hill of the Shea Vineyard. We farm 4 blocks of Pinot Noir planted to Dijon clone 115, 777, 828 and Wadenswil. These four separate climates each have their own characteristics and personality and are harvested, fermented and barrel aged separately in 100% new French oak before being bottled.

 

#6880 Penner-Ash Pinot Noir “Willamette Valley” 2006 6/750 $41.00/Bottle  Another one of the hot new producers in America is Lynn Penner-Ash of Oregon.  Like Bergstrom, pick up any wine publication and the wines from Penner-Ash are receiving some of the highest scores every vintage.  Formerly the winemaker at Rex Hill, Lynn started her own label in 2003.  Her new facility, located near Beaux Freres, is a state-of-the-art 100% gravity-flow facility (similar to Domaine Serene's).  The much-anticipated 2006 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir is a stunning follow-up to the 2005 (92 Point: Wine Spectator).  Supple and open in texture, this offers a gentle mouthful of ripe plum and cherry flavors, picking up a mineral note as the finish lingers engagingly. Lynn always makes very lush pinot noir --- always a crowd favorite at tastings!

 

#30507 Domaine Serene Chardonnay “Cote Sud” 2004 12/750 $32.25/Btl.

 

#30503 Domaine Serene Chardonnay “Cote Sud” 2004 12/375 $18.25/Btl.  Arguably the oldest planting of Dijon Clone chardonnay in Oregon (1992) and is a combination of Dijon clones # 75, 76, 78, 95 and 96. Very citrusy with spicy tarragon and caramel notes. Averaged 2.8 tons/acre.  Aged 15 months sur lees with moderate battonage (lees stirring) in small, French oak cooperage, of which 40% was new. 100%  malolactic fermentation.

 

#30509 Domaine Serene Pinot Noir “Yamhill Cuvee” 2005 12/750 $30.50/Btl. Declassified fruit from the Evansted Reserve (to be truthful).  But that’s not being fair to one of Oregon’s best pinot values.  Classic jory soil, Red Hills of Dundee pinot noir:  ripe cherry, crushed raspberry, vanilla, cocoa and spice.  A lively palate showing layers of red fruit with a bright finish.  Blend of Pommard (57%), Wadenswil (11%) and Dijon (32%) clones of Pinot noir sourced from our Evenstad Estate Vineyards. Averaged 1.79 tons/acre.  Aged 11 months in French oak barrels of which 13% was new. Unfined and unfiltered.

 

#4010 Tyrus Evan Syrah “Seven Hills”, Walla Walla, Oregon 2004    $32/Btl.  Even great Pinot Noir winemakers need a break from the finicky, noble grape once in awhile.  The latest-greatest trend I've noticed in Oregon is:  some of it's greatest winemakers are experimenting with "warm climate" varietals from Southern and Eastern Oregon --- the warm climate vineyards of the Pacific Northwest have become outright stars in the genre.  Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Syrah are thriving in the tiny but perfect climates that love them. These great results come from individuals who have fought off every possible blow nature has provided. The deep winter freezes that arrive every eight years or so to the Eastern Washington vineyards have not deterred these growers. Each time these cold fronts arrive and take the vines back to the ground, these determined growers fight back and start from square one. Each time a late spring frost threatens the vines in the Rogue, the growers turn on the sprinklers, rev up the wind machines and call in the helicopters to save their crop. It’s a crazy dance with nature, but they continue the struggle because they know it’s worth it.

Ken Wright, known for  his highly-rated, single-vineyard Pinot Noir, introduced a  new label in 2003, Tyrus Evan, producing Claret,  Syrah, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. The bottlings are limited—less  than 1,300 cases were produced in 2003—but the winemaker says the wines  are here to stay. 

Bright, fruity, full bodied Syrah, lots of very pleasant hints of cola, black cherry, spice, and a long clean finish. Very well balanced, shows Ken Wright's expertise with wines other than Pinot noir (A worthy followup to his Wine Spectator - 92 Point, 2003 offering).                                                                         

 

 

"Green Certification"/ Bio-Dynamic-Organic, Australia

--- Henschke, South Australia

 

#8646 Henschke` “Johann’s Garden`” 2004 $186/Case 90 points, Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #161 (Oct 2005)  “The beautiful 2003 GSM Johann’s Garden is a blend of 73% Grenache, 17% Shiraz, and 10% Mourvedre. Sweet strawberry, cherry, red currant, pepper, and earthy aromas jump from the glass of this lovely 2003. Its superb fruit, beautiful texture, round, fleshy mouthfeel, and heady finish.” 

#8642 Henschke `Tilly’s Vineyard`”  $102/Case 87 points, Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #161 (Oct 2005) “The 2004 Tilly’s Vineyard, a proprietary blend of Chardonnay, Semillon, and Sauvignon Blanc, was aged primarily in tank with only a touch of barrel fermentation. A light straw color and aromas of white currants, honeysuckle, and earth emerge from this pleasant white.”

#8641 Henschke Lenswood `Abbott’s Prayer` Cabernet Merlot  $315/Case “The monolithic 2002 Abbots Prayer (a blend of 93% Merlot and 7% Cabernet Sauvignon) offers up aromas of dried herbs, smoke, a leafy, vegetal character, and sweet mocha/cherry notes.”

 

#8622 Henschke `Coralinga` Sauvignon Blanc  $135.00/Case 89 points, Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #161 (Oct 2005) “A lovely example of Sauvignon Blanc, the 2004 Coralinga is a zesty, medium-bodied effort displaying notes of figs, melons, and freshly mowed grass in its tart, lemony personality. Its flavor, tartness, minerality, and crisp acidity.”

#8640 Henschke ’Keyneton Estate ’ Cab-Shiraz-Merlot   $204/Case 93 points, Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #161 (Oct 2005) “A combination of 70% Shiraz, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Merlot aged 18 months in wood (15% new), the 2002 Keyneton Estate boasts impressive intensity, richness, concentration, and aromatics (black currants, licorice, earthy spice, and a hint of wood). A beauty, with a meatiness to its richness and intensity, it should drink well for a decade or more.”

#8630 Henschke `Henry’s Seven` Shiraz Grenache Viognier  $155.40/Case  92 points, Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #161 (Oct 2005) “The dense ruby-colored 2003 Henry’s Seven (a blend of 67% Shiraz, 28% Grenache, and 5% Viognier that spent 12 months in neutral wood) possesses a big, sweet, ripe bouquet of peppery black raspberries, kirsch liqueur, black currants, licorice, smoke, and earth. It should drink well for 5-7 years.”

 

#8634 Henschke `Cyril Henschke` Cabernet Sauvignon  $447.90/Case 90 points, Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #161 (Oct 2005) “The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Cyril Henschke (65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 15% Merlot) exhibits a Bordeaux-like austerity as well as aromas and flavors of tobacco smoke, licorice, spice box, red currants, black currants, and sweet cherries. With an elegant, bright, zesty personality, it will drink well for 7-8 years.”

 Argentina wines:  Produced under Dominio del Plata's Code of Sustainable Agriculture:

•  Produce the best quality grapes and wines possible.•  Provide leadership in protecting the environment and conserving natural resources.•  Maintain the long-term viability of agricultural lands.•  Support the economic and social well-being of farm and winery employees through training and competitive compensation.•  Respect and communicate with neighbors and community members; respond to their concerns in a considerate manner.•  Enhance local communities through job creation, supporting local businesses, and actively working on important community issues.•  Honor the Mendoza wine community's entrepreneurial spirit.•  Support research and education as well as evaluate existing practices to foster continual improvements

 

#9057 Rosé of Malbec, “Crios” from Susana Balbo, Mendoza, Argentina 2007 12/750 $9.00/Bottle  An incredible Rosé from Argentina's Superstar winemaker SusanaBalbo.  Could be the greatest rosé I've ever had!  Brilliantly dark --- beautiful to look at.  Cutting Edge:  A dry rosé made from Argentine Malbec!!  It's huge --- with lots of strawberry, cherry and orange aromas and plenty of acid and fresh fruit in a full-bodied wine that is great with fusion cuisine... Oh, the fact that the malbec is grown on it's own roots at 4,000' elevation --- makes Argentina very unique, indeed!  

 

#9055 Torrontes, “Crios” from Susana Balbo, Mendoza, Argentina 2006 12/750 $10.75/Btl. Torrontes Riojano is thought to have come originally fromnorthern Spain’s Malvasia grape. But the plantings in Argentina came from seeds, not from vine cuttings,so the population that exists today is genetically distinct and during its long stay in Argentina, it has developed its own uniquecharacter. While Torrontes is the most widely planted white wine grape in Argentina, the finest quality Torrontes comes from Cafayate, located in the Calchaquí Valley in the northern province of Salta. The combination of high elevation (4800-5600 feet), very dry weather, intense solar radiation, cool nights, and sandy soils brings out its best characteristics. Best consumed in its youth. Enticing aromas that are strikingly similar to Viognier, with hints of peach pit, flowers, and juicy fruit. On the palate, it has mouthwatering acidity that keeps you coming back for another sip and plenty of body for a wine that shows such delicate aromas and flavors. Fruity, floral and yet still quite dry, this wine has to be tasted to be believed!   

 

#9054 Malbec, Susana Balbo 2005         12/750 $21.00/Btl.  Loaded with fruit flavors of currants and strawberries.  It’s full bodied with fine tannins.  Aged for 11 months in French oak (80% new) and bottled unfined & unfiltered.  10% Cabernet.  29 year old vines, planted at 3300' --- ungrafted.  Only 400 cases made.  92 Points—The Underground Wine Journal.

 

#9051 Ben Marco Malbec 2005 12/750 $14.85 / Bottle   The result of Susana Balbo's husband, Pedro Marchevsky, trying tomake a wine that shows off the terrior of Mendoza...it's complex,with baked cherry and dry mineral character. Fine tannin on the end and a delicate, tapered finish demonstrate its finesse.10% Bonarda.  Twenty year old vines, planted on own roots at 3500' elevation. Aged 11 months in 50% new French, 50% 1-yearAmerican barriques.

 

 

 

Three High Quality Napa Valley Reds for Under $20

 

A Napa Valley Cabernet for under $20?!  It doesn’t exist!!  Well, here are three products --- two are made anonymously by some Napa Superstar who sells his (or her?) regular wines for $100 a bottle!  Could this be the future?  Here are three reds with a Napa Valley appellation on the label:

The two anonymously-made wines (The Edge,  and Lava Rock) are very similar --- concept-wise:  taking advantage of all the great sources they have at their disposal in the Valley.  Offering the public some price-relief, should they want a Napa Valley red wine for under $20...

Cabernet Sauvignon is always the main part of The Edge,  and Lava Rock is a Meritage-blend that's predominantly Merlot... you could say The Edge is similar to a Haut-Medoc (Left Bank of Bordeaux) and Lava Rock is similar to a St. Emilion (Right Bank of Bordeaux).  

I'd be remiss to not include Kent Rasmassen's de-classified brand: Ramsay in this offering, too:

 

#88056 The Edge Cabernet Sauvignon   12/750 $16.90/Btl   Edge is a blend of: 92% Cab Sauv., 5 % Merlot & 3% Franc.  following traditional French winemaking practices with techniques including the use of cold soaking and extended maceration (averaging 23 - 32 day), and frequent pumping over. Aged in both French and American Oak for sixteen months, and barrels were racked once every six months. The opulent and lush cherry nose is balanced with a rich palate of deep black cherry and currant with a slight note of vanilla. The medium bodied palate continues with flavors of chocolate, spice, and sweet oak on the finish. The long finish is accentuated by structured, yet silky tannins.

 

#40550 Lava Rock "Red Table Wine" 2005  12/750  $11/Bottle   Notes from the phantom winemaker: "While I’m into serious winemaking, I like wines that you don’t have to be serious about consuming.  In other words, I want a wine that I don’t have to wait forever to enjoy.  With that in mind, Lava Rock is a meticulously crafted wine that is still fun to drink.   Our wine jumps out of the bottle with bright aromas of black cherry, wild strawberry, ripe plum, blackberry and wild berry fruit balanced with a lively structure and finish. Just a touch of oak for a spicy addition to the fruit and a mouth-watering finish that invites a partnership with light to heavy flavored foods."  Varietal blend: 65% Merlot ; 35% Cabernet  Sauvignon. 1800 Cases Produced.

Napa Valley is flanked by a series of extinct volcanic peaks starting at Mt. Veeder and running north to Mt. St. Helena, with volcanic activity still seen today in our famous hot springs and geothermal vents.   Millions of years ago when the volcanoes were active, eruptions distributed minerals and ash far and wide.  The valley soil today contains a large volume of volcanic lava and ash which contribute to the uniqueness of Napa Valley wines.  Lava Rock's inaugural release captures the special geological history of the Napa Valley, wild with flavors and characters that come from its volcanic soils and unique growing conditions.

 

#6652 Ramsay Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 12/750 $12.50/Bottle  Second label from superstar winemaker:  Kent Rasmussen.. The nose is rich with brambleberry, cherry, vanilla and tobacco notes. The mouth follows through with matched flavors plus the rich character of good oak. The mouth-feel of the wine is round and full, but not excessively tannic or hot. 

Bonaccorsi Wine Company 

New Releases: 2005 Pinot Noir

ALL WINES:  NO FINING, NO FILTERING, NO MONKEY BUSINESS

#39761     Bonaccorsi Pinot Noir—Sta. Rita Hills (400 cases produced)  $45.75/Bottle   92 Points: Wine Spectator (9/30/07):“A rich, complex style, with mineral and pebble flavors and ripe, concentrated wild berry and raspberry fruit that's chunky yet elegant and refined. Ends with a rich burst of fruit. Drink now through 2012. 400 cases made. –JL”

"A blend of mostly Cargasacchi and Melville, both 115 clone, with a small amount of Fiddlestix Pommard clone.  Fermented on native yeast for 18 months, 50% new French oak. “Bright, medium ruby in color.  Inviting floral notes mixed with new leather, button mushroom and lightly toasted oak.  On the palate, strawberry, red plums and cran-raspberry.  Good structure, more red fruits and a lovely, spicy finish.  A winner.”

#39753     Bonaccorsi Pinot Noir – Presidio (150 Cases Produced)  $49.50/Bottle 90 Points: Wine Spectator (9/30/07):  “Smooth, rich and polished, with a distinctive mix of blueberry, boysenberry and blackberry fruit that's plush and complex, tightening up on the finish. Needs a little time. Drink now through 2011. 150 cases made. –JL” 

Jenne says: “I am ecstatic about working with this new vineyard, right outside the Sta. Rita Hills appellation. A biodynamic and organic vineyard by Doug Braun, winemaker for Presidio wines.  I visited this site when it was just dirt and gun shells (former shooting range).  It is amazing what has transpired in the last six years.”  115 clone, from a sloped hill, fermented on native yeast, aged 18 months in 50% new French oak. “Full ruby in color.  Bright fruit nose with initial toasty oak and vanilla on nose.  Spicy, opens to broad blackberry and blue berry like fruits.  Finishes to a maple and vanilla.”

#39752     Bonaccorsi Pinot Noir– Sanford & Benedict   (120 Cases Produced)  $49.50/Bottle 93 Points: Wine Spectator (9/30/07):  “Rich and plush, with an intriguing earthy clay base to the zesty black cherry and blackberry flavors, which keep unfolding and revealing extra layers of complexity and depth. The finish is elegant and fine-tuned, with ripe, integrated tannins. Drink now through 2012. 125 cases made. –JL”

Jenne took a different approach to this fruit than the previous years.  She did a 20% stem inclusion in the fermentation, used less new oak and kept the wines longer in barrel.  Fermented on native yeast, aged for 18 months in 50% new French oak.  “My favorite of the tasting.  Medium ruby in color with a touch of garnet at the rim.  Lovely aromas, seductive and woodland forest notes.  Immediate red fruits, strawberry, bing cherry and a host of flowers:  lilac, rose and gardenia.  Firm acid and tannin on the palate.  Savory, with cinnamon stick and a touch of cranberry.”

Half Bottles

Half Bottles are red hot with restaurants around the State of Hawaii.   Contrary to popular belief, high end 375 mls don't hurt BTG sales --- rather they give your customers opportunities to "experiment" without spending $100+ dollars on a "full bottle."  The only problem I see is that many don't realize they're available ...  Here are my recommended half bottles from our portfolio of fine wines:

Chardonnay

#30503 Domaine Serene "Cote Sud" Chardonnay 2004 12/375 $18.25/Bottle  Arguably the oldest planting of Dijon Clone chardonnay in Oregon (1992) and is a combination of Dijon clones # 75, 76, 78, 95 and 96.  Very citrusy with spicy tarragon and caramel notes.   Averaged 2.8 tons/acre.  Aged 15 months sur lees with moderate battonage (lees stirring) in small, French oak cooperage, of which 40% was new. 100%  malolactic fermentation.

#9715 Saintsbury "Carneros" Chardonnay 2006 12/375 $9.85/Btl.  An elegant, restrained style that offers ripe, rich, complex flavors focused in a tight beam centered around green pear, mineral, citrus and spicy notes. Light oak folds in nicely on the finish. European minerality and oak playing a minor role, makes this a refreshing and food-friendly alternative to other California chardonnays...

#39100 Alexander Valley Vineyards "Estate" Chardonnay 2005 12/375 $6.75/Btl.  Words like “hand-crafted” and “labor intensive” are thrown around a lot, but they truly apply to the Estate Chardonnay. The fruit was harvested from several different vineyards on the property including vineyards along the Russian River. More than two-thirds of the fruit was cold-fermented in stainless steel to preserve the vibrant acidity and bright fruit flavors. The remainder was fermented in barrels with several different yeast strains and aged on the lees for 8 months, contributing body and a subtle creaminess to the wine. What you get with this wine are plenty of tropical fruit notes on the nose including pineapple and mandarin orange. On the palate, it shows very pure flavors of apple and pear, underscored by just a touch of toasty oak.

#4907 Miner Family "Napa Valley" Chardonnay 2005 12/375 $14.00/Bottle  Using fruit from four Napa Valley vineyards, this Chardonnay is well-polished package. Spiced pear, melon and hazelnut notes are all tied together with toasty vanilla.  Great Chardonnay should speak to you. It should make you think, and draw you back into the glass for further contemplation and exploration of the senses. At Miner, we hand craft our Chardonnays in the Burgundian style, using carefully selected fruit from low yielding, hillside vineyards for great natural acidity. The result is a clean, fresh wine that continues to evolve in the glass, over a meal, or over a lifetime in the cellar.  Aged 11 Months 40% New French Oak.  2,508 Cases Made.

#3010 Rombauer Chardonnay "Carneros" 2006 12/375 $13.75/Btl. The one --- the only ---  Rombauer Chardonnay!  A California benchmark.  Rich and full-bodied with peach, apple, and mango aromas and flavors. The creamy texture of asian pears and peaches glides across the palate and the light oak tones highlight the wine's complex and lingering finish.

#7902 Landmark "Overlook" Chardonnay 2006 12/375 $12.75/Bottle The 22 separate vineyards that comprise this year's Overlook include such distinguished growers as Sanganciomo, Bien Nacido, Martinelli and Lorenzo. All the wine in the Overlook bottling is barrel fermented using indigenous yeasts and undergoes full malo-lactic fermentation. The wine is aged sur lie for nine months in Burgundian barrels and racked to tanks for blending.  The aromas of toasted almonds, caramel and coconut are followed by crisp green apple and lemon rind flavors that convey certain minerality. 

Other White Varieties

#39342  Duckhorn Sauvignon Blanc 2006 12/375 $11.75/Bottle  One of the few “Napa Valley” Sauvignon Blancs left... Duckhorn’s preference for barrel fermentation (30%) and the addition of Sémillon (25%) results in a unique, full-flavored Sauvignon Blanc with balanced acids and bright fruit flavors. Aged for 6 months sur lie in 100% French oak.

#4922 Miner Family Viognier Simpson Vineyard, California 2006 12/375 $9.85/Bottle  Maybe California's best viognier! Intensely tropical and fresh, ripe and racy (Stainless Steel Fermented) --a wine designed for summertime sipping or anytime enjoyment. With glowing lucidity, a nose full of honeysuckle blossoms and plush peach tones, this Viognier finishes with a refreshing tang that won’t disappoint its fans (and will surely convert the cynical).Whole cluster pressed to perfection and stainless steel fermented… always delicious. 3,332 Cases Made. 

#9530 Reinhold Haart Piesporter Goldtropchen Spatlese “Erste Lage" 2004 12/375 $16.75Bottle 93 Points: Wine Spectator.  "Delicious ripe fruit flavors span the spectrum, from exotic tropical fruit to black currant to mineral. Very expressive, with a good sense of place. It shows harmony and fine length. Drink now through 2020."  Haart has unquestionably the finest holdings in Piesport --- and will never win any price wars, but will dominate any blind tasting!

#9698 Zilliken Saaburger Rausch GKA 12/375 $58.50/Bottle 95 Points: Wine Spectator. Wonderful clarity and expression of pear and apple flavors here, along with a seamless structure and texture. Honey and a touch of mineral on the finish ground out the flavor profile. Fine length too. Drink now through 2030. Hanno Zilliken has been the cellar master since 1976 and proprietor since 1981, and is the proprietor of the greatest estate in the Saar.  From the prime holdings in the Rausch Vineyard to the deepest cellar --- Zilliken wines are produced in the most optimum conditions --- anywhere!  Total production for the estate is a meager 6,000 cases annually. The Saarburger wines exhibit an interesting, subtle "dusty" terroir character when young and they are superbly balanced, with excellent aging potential.

#9636 Zilliken Saaburger Rausch Kabinett 2002 24/375 $9.51/Bottle The Saarburger Rausch Kabinett is rich, dense, and opulent, but also firm, with lime fruit and a bit of hazelnut and hints of gorgeous apricots that will come. Why wait? Enjoy this beauty already.  Hanno Zilliken has been the cellar master since 1976 and proprietor since 1981, and is the proprietor of the greatest estate in the Saar.  From the prime holdings in the Rausch Vineyard to the deepest cellar --- Zilliken wines are produced in the most optimum conditions --- anywhere!  Total production for the estate is a meager 6,000 cases annually. The Saarburger wines exhibit an interesting, subtle "dusty" terroir character when young and they are superbly balanced, with excellent aging potential.

#9570 Wehlener Sonnenuhr "GKAuslese" F. Weins Prum 2006 12/375 $30.50/Btl.  Bert Selbach, owner of Dr. F. Weins Prum Estate is blessed with some of the top holdings in Wehlen and Graach.  Neighbors with his more-famous cousin Manfred Prum (JJ Prum), Weins-Prum's wines are great values (comparatively speaking) and unlike the JJ Prum wines, ready to drink immediately.  It shows the clarity and soft acids of the vintage with the pear and slightly spiced apples typical of the vineyard’s terroir and a beautiful overall calm. The wine is most attractive now...

#9699 Haag Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr GKA 2006 12/375 $37/Btl.  A much-anticipated followup to the 95 Point (Wine Spectator) 2005.  Pure and expressive. A mix of slate and nectarine flavors, verging on passion fruit, highlights this lithe yet dense Riesling. Ripe and succulent, with excellent balance and a tangy finish. The Haag estate to those in the know is perhaps the one of the, if not the, most respected names in German fine wine.  Quality is always the focus at this estate, and quantity is extremely limited. 

Sweet Wines

#9830 Rosenblum Black Muscat “Gallagher Ranch” ‘04 12/375 $14.90/Btl.  This three-quarter-century-old vineyard is planted to a rare clone of Black Hamburg Muscat grapes. The vineyard is located east of the Livermore Valley in Manteca, where the warm climate encourages excellent ripeness and sugar levels. The average yield is 2.5 tons per acre.  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. 

#9853 Port “Chocolate-Desiree” NV 12/375 $14.90/Btl.  To produce this wine, a selection of fortified wines from different regions and different vintages were evaluated.  The blend that combined the most intense and most chocolate characteristics was chosen.  Rosenblum has a special liquid chocolate syrup that is put together in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, that will coalesce with the blended wine to enhance the flavors of chocolate, coconut and vanilla in the wine that is already geared for being a great chocolate experience. The fortified wines that make up this blend are Tinta Cão, Tinta Roriz, and Zinfandel.  These are wines that are kissing cousins in terms of flavor and intensity.  In addition they bring together both the new and the old world with varietals that are famous for dessert wines. 

#8618 Yalumba "Museum Muscat" NV, Barossa Valley $14.50/Bottle  My“best kept secret”... 98 points: Robert Parker: #161, October, 2005“The non-vintage Museum Reserve Muscat is exotic, full-bodied, rich, and sweet. It spent 7 years in wood, and was bottled from a solera system. This amber-hued, rich, unctuously-textured effort boasts luscious aromas and flavors of marmalade, figs, chocolate, melted caramel, toffee, and prunes. Once again, Australia proves this country is hard to beat when it comes to their fortified after-dinner wines, which still sell for a song.”

#8618 Yalumba "Antique Tawney" NV, Barossa Valley $14.50/Bottle 96. Points —Robert Parker. The medium amber-hued non-vintage Museum Reserve Antique Tawny, which has had more than 15 years of oak aging, is a sensational fortified that could easily be confused with a high quality, 20- to 25-year-old Tawny Port. Delicious notes of prunes, sweet raisins, over-ripe strawberries, and caramel soar from the glass of this incredibly intense wine. 

#2477 Veraison "Stagecoiach Vyd. Syrah" Port 12/375 $38/Bottle  The Syrah for our port comes from a steep South facing Stagecoach Vineyard block on Pritchard Hill.  The clone of Syrah used for this port is reputed to be the  best French clone of syrah.  Dark plum, mocha, boysenberry, strawberry and currants spiced by pepper. Wonderful when sipped with chocolate cake covered with strawberry or raspberry syrup.  This port is also outstanding with wine poached pears.  76 cases produced.  Enjoy now until 2020. 

Pinot Noir

#4802    Pinot Noir “Shea Vineyard” 2006       12/375         $222/Case    $18.50/Bottle  Arguably Oregon's most famous vineyard.  A who’s-who of pinot  producers have made a Shea Vineyard over the years --- but it was Ken that put Shea on the radar screen.  Because of this, “Ken’s Block” is  the “filet mignon”--- the prime spot in the Shea Vineyard.  This  site is in the Yamhill-Carlton District just west of the Chehalem Valley. Ken’s fruit is sourced from three small blocks, one of which  is planted to the Pommard clone, one to the Dijon 114 clone and the last to Dijon 777 clone. Soils are primarily of the Goodin and Melbourne type which are sedimentary in origin. The three blocks  range in elevation from 450 to 600 feet and were planted in 1989. The  wine from this vineyard has a complex array of aromas and flavors  including black and red fruits, particularly blueberry, spice and  earth. Approximately 725 cases are produced. The vineyard is owned by  Dick and Deirdre Shea and managed by Javier Marin.

#4803    Pinot Noir “Carter Vineyard” 2006    12/375                   $222/Case    $18.50/Bottle  Located just 1 mile from Canary Hill in the Eola Hills, Carter Vineyard is lower on the hillside yet has a leaner and less fertile soil. It is mainly Nekia soil, which is formed from weathered basic rock. It lies at an elevation of 325' and was planted in 1983. This bottling is comprised of the Wadenswil, Dijon 777, Dijon 667, Dijon 115, and Pommard clones. The wine is firmer than Canary Hill in its youth but evolves beautifully after a few years in bottle to show black fruits and fresh, healthy earth scents. Approximately 650 cases are produced. The vineyard is owned by Jack and Kathleen Carter, and managed by Mark Gould.

#4817    Pinot Noir “Savoya Vineyard” 2006    12/375         $222/Case    $18.50/Bottle  Any visitors to Ken's home have seen the Savoya Vineyard --- it's  essentially his backyard.  Part of the new AVA: Yamhill-Carlton  District.  The sites in the area were planted mostly in the late  1980’s and early 1990’s. The primary soil of this area is called Willakenzie, named after the Willamette and McKenzie rivers. It is a  sedimentary soil with a sandstone base rock. The sand content is  quite high and the soil therefore very well drained. The sites are  generally on the lower slopes of a volcanic ridge. Wines of the area  possess aromas of red and black fruits, with added elements of cocoa,  leather and fresh-turned earth. Acidity levels are generally lower than other regions, prompting these wines to be lush and agreeable in their youth.  This is the first vineyard directly owned and developed by Ken Wright Cellars. The vineyard is located in the Yamhill-Carlton  District northeast of Carlton. Planting began in 1999 with 4.5 acres  of clones 777 and 115 on phylloxera resistant rootstock.. Total  planted acreage as of spring 2002 is approximately 17 acres. Vine  spacing is 6.5’ x 4’ and the elevations averages 450’. The soil is  comprised of marine sediments known as Wellsdale and Willakenzie.  These are sandy soils which drain quickly and hasten the ripening  process. Ken's first commercial crop was the 2002.  Savoya in it's  short history has produced  muscular wines that have aromas of dense  black fruit, seared meat, cedar and anise. Approximately 240 cases are produced. Ken and Karen Wright are owners. The vineyard is  managed by Mark Gould.

#9719 Saintsbury Pinot Noir "Carneros" 2005 $13.35/Bottle  These guys put pinot noir and Carneros on the map --- they’ve been making it, growing it and experimenting with Carneros Pinot for more than 25 years.  Their “Carneros” bottling delivers varietal and regional integrity.  Those lots that show a balance of tannin and acid, fruit flavors that while rich, dark-red and complex, are not overblown or leaning toward the burnt jam style of Pinot you sometimes see. Saintsbury’s Carneros bottling delivers distinctive Pinot Noir character in a wine of power, grace and elegance.

Merlot

#39349 Duckhorn "Napa Valley" Merlot 2004 $22.75/Bottle The Napa Valley Standard for Merlot is a blend of several individual vineyard lots, utilizing fruit from their own Estate Vineyards and from independent growers throughout the Napa Valley. The final wine is an expression of the Napa Valley itself, reflecting the unique microclimates and soils of the entire appellation. Blended to offer the complexity and balance of a young wine and reflective of the Napa Valley appellation. This vintage is full-bodied and layered with fruit and well-integrated tannins that lead to a lingering finish. The aroma is dominated by ripe fruit-blackberry, plum, and cherry-and is accented by notes of toasted oak, vanilla, cedar, and tobacco. The flavors are rich with chocolate, blackberry, blueberry, plum, cassis, white pepper, and dried herbs. A blend of: 81% Merlot,10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot and 4% Cabernet Franc.  Aged 16 months in 40% new, 60% second vintage French oak.  Alcohol: 14.5%.

#40891 L'Ecole #41 Merlot “Columbia Valley” 2004 12/375 $13/Bottle L'Ecole No 41 is indisputably best known for Merlot, their principle red variety since 1983. Fermentation control is carried out in a traditional Bordeaux style, with small lot fermentations punched down by hand for optimal color and flavor extraction. When the fermentation is completed, the must is gravity fed into the press. The wine is gently racked into a combination of new and older French and American oak barrels and aged for 18 months. With rich blackcherry and berry fruit flavors in balance with the tannins, traditionally bottled unfined and unfiltered.

Cabernet Sauvignon & Bordeaux Blends

#4911 Miner Family Vineyards “The Oracle”, Napa Valley  2004 12/375 $29/Bottle The Oracle is a Bordeaux-style blend inspired by the ancient Greek Oracle, the center of prophecy and wisdom. The fruit for this wine is sourced from Napa Valley’s renowned Stagecoach Vineyard, and the blend is 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Malbec. This harmonious blend reveals aromas of blackberries, coffee and dried herbs that lead into layers of plush dark fruit flavors on the palate. With well-integrated oak and framed by finely grained tannins.

#39323 Duckhorn "Napa Valley" Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 $25.35/Bottle A personal favorite from Duckhorn, their Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied and elegant wine with smooth, velvety tannins that are nicely integrated. The aroma exhibits classic Cabernet character with dark chocolate, cassis, blackberry, tobacco, and a hint of dried herbs. On the palate flavors of vanilla, oak, caramel and toasted almonds combine with the essence of ripe black cherry to create a wine to savor. Ready to drink upon release, this wine will age well for the next 10-15 years.  A blend of: 80% Cabernet Sauvignon,15% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot and1% Cabernet Franc.  Aged 19 months in 78% new, 22% second vintage French oak.. Alcohol: 14.5%.

#39104 Alexander Valley Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2005             12/375 $8.00/Btl.  This Cabernet reveals how greatness can often emerge from difficult beginnings. The year was a bit wetter than normal and also cooler. But that resulted in a long growing season (we didn't finish harvesting the grapes until November 11), allowing the fruit to remain on the vine longer and develop more flavors. The extended hang time also brought the sugars and acids in the fruit into almost perfect harmony. The 2005 is 90 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and 6 percent Merlot with Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot rounding out the blend.

Zinfandel

#20702 Seghesio Zinfandel “Sonoma County” 2005 12/375 $10.00/Btl.  Primarily from four estate vineyards: Home Ranch, San Lorenzo and River Road in Alexander Valley, and Cortina in Dry Creek Valley.  Several of these sites have produced Zinfandel for over a century, while the newer sites benefit from proprietary clones and the most advanced viticultural practices. Yields are kept at or below 4 tons per acre.  A small amount of Petite Sirah is added to the wine for added complexity.  The result is a tantalizing black raspberry and classic briary flavored wine with a balance of components for which Seghesio wines are known.

INCREDIBLE SYRAH!

People like JMD's selections of pinot noir from Oregon, others like our German rieslings --- but I think we've got some incredible syrah!  Here are some of my favorites:

#40205 DeLille Doyenne Syrah “Red Mountain” 2005 12/750 $36.25 / Bottle

93 Points:  Parker.  A showpiece winery dedicated to Bordeaux blends --- that first opened my eyes about Washington's potential with syrah.  Along with Quilceda Creek, DeLille is pioneering the top vineyards of Red Mountain. This wine has an opaque, black-purple color like outer space with the lights turned off.  Complex aromas of white pepper, wild flowers, red apricots and citrus peel complimented by dense black raspberries, blueberries and olives.  This wine has phenomenal concentration, European-core and structure. This is an incredible and age-worthy Syrah. Blended from Red Mountain's top sites: 17% Grand Ciel Vineyard Syrah, 43% Ciel du Cheval Syrah, and 3% Ciel du Cheval Viognier --- along with 37% Boushey Syrah.        

     

#4810 Tyrus Evan Syrah “Walla Walla” 2005 6/750 $32/Bottle

Bright, fruity, full bodied Syrah, lots of very pleasant hints of cola, black cherry, spice, and a long clean finish. Very well balanced, shows Ken Wright's expertise with wines other than Pinot noir (A worthy followup to his Wine Spectator - 92 Point, 2004 offering).  Predominantly from the Seven Hills Vineyard, nestled in the Walla Walla Valley Appellation in the far northeast of Oregon (yes, Oregon!), near Milton-Freewater. The original plantings date back to 1981. The soils in this vineyard are Ellingford Silt Loam, which is a wind-blown glacial loess that is geologically very young and full of minerals.  This vineyard produces a round, lush, intensely fruit-driven Syrah with ripe velvety tannins.  Even great Pinot Noir winemakers need a break from the finicky, noble grape once in awhile.  The latest-greatest trend we've noticed in Oregon is some of it's top winemakers (Ken Wright, Tony Rynders, Lynn Penner-Ash and Laurent Montalieu) are straying from the Willamette Valley, experimenting with "warm climate" varietals from Southern and Eastern Oregon --- the warm climate vineyards of the Pacific Northwest have become outright stars in the genre.  Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot and especially Syrah are thriving in the tiny but perfect climates that love them.

 

#8638  Henschke "Mt Edelstone" 2004 6/750 $75/Bottle

100% 90-year-old-vine shiraz grown in the Eden Valley wine region, farmed bio-dynamically. Great vintage! In 1912 Ronald Angas planted the sandy loam slopes of Mount Edelstone with shiraz. Located high in the Eden Valley region this vineyard came to be known as Mount Edelstone meaning gemstone. The 90-year-old ungrafted dry-grown vines from this historic single vineyard are low yielding, producing a depth of colour, concentration of flavour, length and maturity of tannins unique to old-vine shiraz. Mount Edelstone has achieved a formidable reputation since its first vintage in 1952. Deep crimson in colour. Sweet ripe plum, anise and blueberry aromas with earthy/dusty hints, gentle ferny characters, spicy cedary oak and eucalypt. Sweet, juicy and ripe on the palate with a fleshy texture, good structure and depth, firm ripe tannins and a long rich finish.

 

#8628 Jim Barry "McRae Wood" 2004  6/750 $36.75/Bottle

A big, full-bodied Shiraz, showing colours of inky, deep red and purple hues. The nose displays ripe red/black fruit aromas, floral notes, strawberries, black cherry, raspberry, sweet fruity oak, charry and black pepper. The palate is rich and concentrated, with plummy, liquorice, cherry, blackberry and some charry, toasty oak. The tannins are finely grained and well integrated.  Aged for 17 months in 65% New American, 12% New French and 23% older American oak. This Shiraz honours the vision of pioneer Clare Valley winemaker Jim Barry.  In 1964 Jim purchased 70 acres of prime land from Duncan McRae Wood and planted his first vineyard with Shiraz. It was an inspired choice of both grape variety and location. The wine is made from a selection of the best fruit from the mature, low-yielding vines that surround the famous Armagh vineyard.  

 

#6702 DuMOL "Eddie's Patch" Syrah 2004  6/750 $68.75/Bottle

Parker: 93-95 Points (Wine Advocate #162: Dec. 2005). "Muscular, floral, and primordial is the broodingly black/purple-colored 2004 Syrah Eddie’s Patch. Deep, concentrated, and impressively endowed, with full-bodied power and unctuosity, it should be consumed over the next 7-8 years."  Always one of my favorites, Eddie's comes exclusively from the steep terrace block at the Hoppe Vineyard --- and is a monument to Californian Syrah!!  This 100% organically farmed hillside is such a perfect place to grow world-class syrah that any notion of winemaking trickery improving upon nature is misplaced. Its consistently lower yield per plant, smaller berries and less vigorous canopy growth produces a wine that is the essence of dense, black, brooding syrah. With its complex traditional aromas of violets and pepper it evokes its Northern Rhone heritage yet also tips its hat to its Barossa brethren with its super ripe, roasted meat edge. This is not a combination for the faint-hearted! 

 

#39794 Herman Story "Larner Vineyard" Syrah 2005 12/750 $22.90/Bottle

As mentioned in earlier correspondences, David and I recently attended the 2007 Hospice du Rhone in Paso Robles, California --- a great event, featuring a "who's-who" of Rhone producers from around the World.  The stand-out at every seminar &/or tasting were the wines from little-known Herman Story --- the wines blew us away!  Owner-winemaker Russell From is one of those "young turks" turning heads in California's Central Coast.  The wines were all made in an over-the-top style --- reminding me of certain wines from Sine Qua Non, and others of that genre.  Two wines are vineyard designates from the 33 acre Larner Vineyard in Ballard Canyon.  Ballard Canyon, a north-south corridor located behind that kitchy-village of Solvang, is quickly being realized as “ground-zero” for rhone varietals. Located at the southern end is the sandy-loam soils of the meticulously farmed Larner Vineyard.  Larner has been on our radar screens after being blown away by syrahs (and grenache) from Bonaccorsi, Kaena, Tensley and a few others... All Russell's wines experience a long cold soak prior to fermenting by means of native yeasts.  After fermentation, the wines are aged in 100% French oak (25% new). Another blockbuster from Larner Vineyard!   Saturated flavors of blackberry, boysenberry, chocolate & cassis --- intense and concentrated. Remarkably deep and penetrating, the flavors finish with a strong burst of richness and complexity. The structure is ripe and plush with those long, dusty-Larner tannins.  It is hard, not to be blown away by wines from this site!

Aloha,

Alan