Wine Towne News

January 2009 Selections

2009-01-01T09:45:00.000-08:00

2007 Marquis Phillips Baby Roogle Red Southeastern Australia
Hear ye, here Ye! Chris Ringland and Dan Phillips do it again. A Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon blend that is downright gulpable! Rediculously textured and supple, loaded with all the dark fruit one craves. Gratuitous and satisfying for your senses. With the purchase of the three wines of the month, the price is even lower!!
Reg $xxxx Club $xxxx

Santa Rita 120 Sauvignon Blanc Lontue Valley, Chile
Crystalline acidity, partially due to the extreme altitude and cool nights of this part of Chile brings forth mouthwatering citrus flavors and light mineral notes. A hint of fresh ginger escapes the glass to add more zest to the clean aromatic profile for this ideal candidate for oysters. Caveat emptor: This wine may make you wish it was summer all year long!
Reg $xxxx Club $xxxx

2000 Chateau Lavergne- Dulong Bordeaux Superieur, France
Good luck finding many 2000 Bordeaux these days, and better luck affording the good ones! You ship has come in this month with the best of both worlds. The 2000 vintage in Bordeaux is one of the “ageworthiest” of the last who knows how many years. With grat fruit and structure, and drinking well still, this wine is soft on the palate and wallet.
Reg $xxxx Club $xxxx

2009-01-01T09:35:00.000-08:00

2007 Clos La Chance Unoaked Chardonnay Paso Robles, California
Chard yes way, this time. No vanilla bean, butterscotch, fruit cocktail syrupy yuck here. Clean, straightforward Chardonnay to sip and enjoy with your next poultry meal or lobster dinner… get the picture? You can love Chardonnay again, with its pure varietal aromas and flavors of apple and lemon, and that telltale scent of dried chamomile that is a giveaway for unoaked Chards… so much so that some mistake that aroma for slight oakiness– but it is thankfully not wood you are smelling! This wine is fantastic with cream sauces, butter, and cornbread, and warm baguettes…
$12.99/ btl

Andrew's Corner

2009-01-01T09:30:00.000-08:00

The 2005 Bodegas Juan Gil Monastrell Jumilla, Spain is an unsung hero amongst affordable red wines. Those who know it love it, and as always, those who don’t love it probably haven’t tried it lately. Monastrell has been grown in Spain forever, and in France for a very long time as well, where it is known as Mourvedre. Yes, the picture is coming into focus now… In Jumilla the grapes tend to grow better in the drier and hotter weather, on gnarled, very old vines. This, of course, produces teensy, very concentrated Monastrell grapes, and thusly wines that are rich and complex. Monastrell also has an inherent dark berry and spice characteristic that comes through in the wine as an almost blackberry/ clove/ allspice/ cinnamon aroma that is nice and subtle. When oak barrels are used, the additional hints of vanilla and toast can be present. Yeah, AND? Well, I challenge anyone to find a better Monastrell for $15!! Pair this wine with a well made, classic beef stew, game meats, a juicy ribeye, grilled pork tenderloin rubbed with garam masala and lavender, or any recipe that one is inclined to make for a meal. That is the beauty of wines like this, they bring the spice, complexity, and a sense of the exotic to any meal. It’s the key to the extra step up from good to great eating and drinking… pass the warm baguette, please!

(I think it’s a crying shame that this is not on the wine lists here and there by the glass!)

Sauvignon Grigio?

2009-01-01T09:29:00.000-08:00

2006 Bertani Due Uve Veneto, Italy $16.99/ btl
Due Uve. Two grapes. Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc are now friends. You should make friends with this wine, because now there is no argument or comparison between two of the easiest drinking wines. Together they blend seamlessly to provide the ultimate drinking pleasure to fans of both grapes. This will pair with anything anywhere at anytime within the realm of rationality. This wine pulls off all the freshness one can imagine with scents of lemongrass, thyme, lemon zest, gentle mint, honeysuckle, spring breezes, you name it. With a crisp and ripe granny smith mouthfeel, this is your new favorite white wine to drink when you cant make up your mind what to have. Another wine that belongs on “by the glass’ lists in most restaurants. It also belongs on your table… next to the warm baguette!

This Month's Cellar Selection

2009-01-01T09:17:00.000-08:00

2006 Banfi Rosso di Montalcino Tuscany, Italy $23.99/ btl
Maybe the Sangiovese based Rosso di Montalcino wines are meant to be consumed whilst one waits for the Brunellos to be released, and this wine is no exception. That doesn't mean that this cherry and tea inflected beauty wont age well. It has all the acidity a good Sangiovese should have, and the tannin to back it up… needless to say it is very drinkable now, and softens quite nicely in the glass over the course of a fine meal. Paired with something delicious like, say, beef stew, this wine does wonders for the palate! Pass the warm baguette, please… and thank you.

Beef Stew, Classic and Easy

2009-01-01T07:56:00.000-08:00

Don’t buy the beef stew pre- packaged from your grocer, it is a bunch of (s)crap. Use short ribs, the result will be a better sauce and more tender and succulent meat.
1 cup flour
2 lbs short ribs
2 cups WHITE wine
1 lb onions, diced
1 lb fingerling, new red, or other very small potatoes, whole unpeeled
1 lb baby carrots whole
1/2 lb celery rough chopped
FRESH herbs: sage, rosemary, and/ or thyme
1 Bay leaf
Extra Virgin olive oil
Sea salt and fresh black pepper
2 quarts beef broth (use a good one, spend the 2 extra dollars)

Season the short ribs with salt and pepper, drizzle with olive oil to coat lightly, then coat with flour. In a heavy pot on medium high heat, brown the meat on all sides, and be glad when some sticks to the bottom. Throw in half the onions and sauté, and when the bottom of the pan starts to look a bit dark, deglaze with the wine, add 1 quart of broth, reduce heat to low, and cover. Walk away for at least an hour and a half. Return and add potatoes. Have a glass of wine.

Taste stew and adjust seasoning. Add your herbs at this point, and STOP adding when it smells really good. Everything that is left, goes into the pot. Reduce until the liquid is, well, stewy, and the potatoes are done. The short ribs at this point should almost fall apart when you look at them sideways (if not let it simmer some more). Remove bones from the pot, adjust seasoning, add more fresh herbs for the aromatic effect if you feel like it, cover the pot, turn the heat off and let it rest while you have another glass of wine.
Don’t be shy, use garlic and truffle oil if you so desire… garlic near the beginning, and truffle oil during final resting phase…

Pass the warm baguette, please.

Row, Row, Row

2009-01-01T07:54:00.000-08:00

2006 Twenty Rows Merlot Napa valley, California $21.99/ btl
Merlot has received a bad rap of late. The grand red grape of Bordeaux’s famed St. Emilion and Pomerol departments has been eschewed by wannabe wine snobs that have poo– pooed merlot as a pedestrian wine. When well made it can bee deep, dark, and graceful all at the same time. Elegant notes of deep dark plums, black cherry, and spice in this wine will remind even the most jaded wine aficionado why Merlot is every bit as relevant as Cabernet Sauvignon. Lest we forget, some of the most sought after and expensive wine in the world is made from this underappreciated berry known as Merlot. Merlot is also one of the most versatile wines to pair with food; meats, cheese, and poultry in any form. Try this wine with crow and the last of the Merlot haters will soon be eating their words!

Bookers Bourbon

2009-01-01T07:53:00.000-08:00

Bourbon is from Kentucky, NEVER from Tennessee. Let’s not ever forget that very important distinction, for everything else is simply whisky. Many would settle for Jim Beam, and that is fine, but the ultimate Jim beam experience is from the owner’s special recipe. Booker Noe is the proprietor of the Jim Beam Distillery, so there must be something incredible about this top bottling called Booker’s. Weighing in at an average 126 proof, there is a reason why good spring water and/ or an ice cube are in order! Sweet smokiness, subtle maple and hints of cherry wood make this smooth sippin’ bourbon a necessity.
$51.99/ btl

2009-01-01T07:46:00.000-08:00

Holy Smokes! 2009? Already? You betcha. I haven’t been sipping enough great red Burgundies due to the economy, but this year I resolve to seek and drink more excellent “burgs” that over– deliver the bang for the buck.
The 2006 Nicolas Potel Bourgogne Rouge @ $22.99 per bottle is exactly that. It isn’t heavy or overly astringent and certainly not short on character and contemplative nuance. No, this is Pinot Noir just the way I like it, clean, and complex at the same time. Dusty cherries, hints of woodsy smoke, tangy berries, and even that subtle porcini scent all bring me such immense pleasure.
It really feels like the New Year, now that I have the time to stop and smell the aromatics! Nicolas Potel makes the Pinot Noirs that one should enjoy whilst putting ones feet up, with legs covered in a favorite blanket and the phones turned off. This Bourgogne Rouge is a “leave me be... I’m relaxing...” kind of wine, and “pass the warm baguette, please…”

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!

2008-12-23T15:24:00.001-08:00

December Selections

2008-12-03T06:37:00.001-08:00

2003 Avila Winery Syrah Santa Barbara County, California
Santa Barbara County’s brightest star, Syrah, has now become deliciously affordable. Avila Winery has put out some of the best value wines in the country over the years. Deutz Champagne started the Laetitia label, and to our benefit, followed with the second label “Avila”. A perfect red wine for parties and hostess gifts, this also has a deserved place amongst rich appetizers and just about anything with black pepper in it.
Sale $11.99

2007 Masi Masianco Verduzzo/ Pinot Grigio delle Venezie, Italy
That lovely green gold shimmer, that come hither scent of marzipan, citrus, and hints of honey, the crisp and dry palate tingling sensation! This is possible with Verduzzo and Pinot Grigio grapes that are allowed extra hang time on the vine in Italy’s Veneto. Cool enough in the vineyard to allow the fresh acidity to come through in the wine, and a little extra ripeness in the grapes to lend the tropical notes. Advice for the Holidays: Give this wine as gifts, and consume equal amounts for self. Repeat.
Sale $14.99

2006 Aguaribay Malbec Mendoza, Argentina
Coming to you from the “Compagnie Vinicole Baron Edmond de Rothschild” in Argentina is this pepper scented Malbec. Isn’t it interesting that the Aguaribay tree is the source for pink peppercorns, and is sometimes called the christmasberry tree? With the rest of the Rothschild family making Lafite and Mouton, this Aguaribay Malbec is an overachievement! Rich with a nice balance of ripe berry like acidity, this will be great with everything on the table!
Sale $11.99
Happy Holidays!

2008-12-03T06:35:00.000-08:00

2007 Bodegas Borsao Tres Picos Garnacha Campo de Borja, Spain

Thank goodness for Betsy’s palate and recognizing a perfect grape selection for December: Grenache. It’s jolly cherry goodness brings warm spiciness to chilly days and nights. Tres Picos garnacha is no exception. One of the mainstays of Spanish viticulture, Garnacha gets deep and brooding when grown in Spanish soil and when harvested from old vines as this wine is. This bottling boasts hints of violets and plum cake with flavors of blackberry and sweet earth. Perfect for Sunday roast.
$19.99/ Bottle

Andrew's Corner

2008-12-03T06:32:00.002-08:00

Schramsberg Sparkling Wine Brut Blanc de Blanc and Blanc de Noirs Napa, California
Each $37.99/ Bottle

Champers, shampoo, bubbly, stars, whatever you want to call California Sparkling wine, go ahead, but never ever call it champagne ‘cause it ain’t and never will be. It’s from California, it’s wine, and it has bubbles, right? It’s like this: French stuff is from France and cannot be reproduced exactly the same way here in the states. METHODS can be used, but when your grapes are firmly rooted in Napa, California, your wine will be Californian no matter what name you put on it. Champagne is from north of Paris in France in the region of the same name: Champagne. Blanc de Blanc, means white wine from white grapes, usually chard, blanc de noirs means white wine from dark grapes, usually Pinot Noir. Since the pulp of most grapes is clear this should be an easy concept to grasp if you remember that the color in wine comes from the skins. No skins, no problem. Gently pressed juice shouldn’t have much, if any, color. Now remember that good things come from California, and excellent SPARKLING WINE is made there. The Davies family have it down. They aren’t trying to duplicate the French, they have found the heart and soul of California Sparkling Wine by employing French methods and using California grapes and relying on the California sun. Help our economy and toast American!

Keep it up, Hugh

2008-12-03T06:32:00.001-08:00

2005 Lynmar Winery Chardonnay Russian River valley, California
Lynmar’s very own tasting notes say it all:
“Aromas are fresh and vibrant--fragrant Bartlett pear and spicy applesauce go head to head with distinct notes of lemon custard and ripe mango. There is also a noticeable minerality which is much more upfront this vintage than in the past. Nuances of yeasty fresh rising dough are in the background, which we know will turn wonderfully “toasty” with a little more bottle age. Where this vintage really shines, though, is on the palate. The entry is deceptively soft with no hard edges. A remarkable flavor density is then apparent, seamlessly flowing into a rich mid-palate and bracing acidity.”
Looks like Hugh Chappelle has done it again as winemaker there at Lynmar! Keep up the good work, our palates thank you!
$35.99/ Bottle

Cellar Selection

2008-12-03T06:30:00.000-08:00

2003 Tedeschi Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Veneto, Italy
The only fruitcake worth actually eating is Pannetone, and the only wine to have with it is Amarone. The best place to have them together is by a crackling fire with a bowl of nuts nearby. Don’t mistake great Amarone for the thick syrupy dreck that some claim it to be. Great Amarone is gentle and kind, bright and has aromas of walnuts, blueberry, cherry, good fruitcake, and yes, raisins. Its warmth and brightness is just the thing when it gets cold and dark outside…
$48.99/ Bottle
(perfect red for Florentine dishes)

Nigella Lawson's Recipe

2008-12-03T06:29:00.001-08:00

Nigella’s famous Yorkshire Pudding:
1 1/4 cups of milk4 eggsScant 1/2 teaspoon of saltFreshly milled black pepper1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, sifted1 tablespoon of beef drippings (FAT!)
The oven should be heated to 450° F. Mix the milk, eggs and salt and add pepper, beating all well together. Let these ingredients stand for 15 minutes and then whisk in the flour. Meanwhile, add the dripping to the pan and put it in the oven to heat for about 10 minutes. Into this intensely hot pan, you should put the batter and cook for 20 minutes or until well puffed and golden. Bring it, triumphant, to the table.
Now here is the trick for this recipe for the holidays…
Fill these delicious goodies with Beef stew, creamed spinach, potatoes and bacon, or chicken. Even that funny green bean casserole looks and taste great when served with these “puddings”.

Tip: make these in mini muffin tins for the best hors d'oeuvres and use any left over popovers for stuffing!
Watch the heat, and take them out quickly or they will burn...

Do You Know the Muffin Man?

2008-12-03T06:28:00.001-08:00

2007 Marquis Phillips Grenache Southeastern Australia
Xmas in a glass! They’ve mastered Syrah, but with winemaker Chris Ringland on board Grenache is King. There is something about Ringland and his deft hand with this red grape that hails from Chateauneuf du Pape and eastern Spain. The deep dark cherry core is indicative of the Grenache varietal, but with careful selection in the vineyard and a gentle touch in the winery, Ringland nails down the gingerbread, cinnamon, clove, allspice, and truffle aromas that can be coaxed out of this complex grape. Throw in the Southeastern Australian climate and one juicy, yet graceful behemoth is born.
$16.99/ btl
Catch it if you can!

I Want to Ride My Tricycle

2008-12-03T06:22:00.000-08:00

005 Tricycle Wine Company Cabernet Sauvignon Obsidian Ridge Vineyard Red Hills, Lake County, California
Okay, forget the trike, hand over some of this Obsidian Ridge Cab. This lush red wine from the Mayacamas mountains is softer than anything you might get as a gift this season, not fuzzy, but smoother than silk. Dark as the black volcanic obsidian that is found all over Northern California, this Cabernet is the one to leave by the chimney with care when Daddy and Mommy get thirsty at midnight…
$29.99/ btl

Betsy's Corner

2008-12-03T06:21:00.001-08:00

2006 Summers Winery Estate Charbono Napa Valley, California
Charbono was originally thought to be the Italian grape Barbera by Italian immigrants arriving in California during the late 1800’s, but as it turns out it is actually French in origin. Charbono as a wine is exclusively produced in California, and Summers winery is by far the champion of this rarity. Inky purple in color, and jam packed with a lush berry– cherry quality that remains vibrant on the palate. A difficult wine to procure outside of California, unless of course you are reading this and are familiar with our “taste it, gotta have it” take on excellent, hard to find wines!
This wine is sourced from the only 80 acres of Charbono that are grown in California. The estate vines that Summers uses are located in the northern Napa town of Calistoga, 40 acres of very old vines are located. The land up in Calistoga is spotted with hot springs and rugged hillsides, which make prime growing conditions for grapevines. It really shows through in the wine, because the more rustic the growing conditions, the more delicate and concentrated the wine can be.
If you love graceful wines, and are waiting to find the perfect Cal– Italian type of wine, this is most definitely it.
The top pick for the Holiday feasting is Summers Charbono!
$23.99/ Bottle

2008-10-31T15:36:00.000-07:00

TowneLiquorStore.blogspot.com

Tell your friends. Write it down. Pass it along!

WINE TOWNE NEWS

November Selections

2008-10-31T13:59:00.000-07:00

Three wines of outstanding quality and value, with extra savings on the triplet.

$35.58/ triplet

2006 Zeni Costalago Rosso Veronese IGT Verona, Italy $13.99/ btl
We love the wines from Verona, and we love the reds like Amarone della Valpolicella, but sometimes they can be overkill on the palate and on the pocketbook. Zeni winery comes through with this blend of Corvina, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot that delivers both the juicy plum and chocolate aromas of Valpolicella and the graceful cassis laden power of the Super Tuscan wines. This is the affordable equivalent of the Palazzo Della Torre we know and love.

2007 Chateau Laulerie Blanc Bergerac, France $12.99/btl
Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc from the source in the Bergerac region near the city of Bordeaux. Semillon adds a silky, rich quality to Sauvignon Blanc's bright citrusy character in delicious harmony with its fresh, clean aromatics of lemon and mineral. This is the white wine to start your gathering with, even before guests arrive!

2005 Vinos De Arganza Flavium Crianza Bierzo, Spain $12.99/btl

Let's say you had Thanksgiving dinner smack dab in the middle of Spain near Leon in the Bierzo region and couldn't find a good Pinot Noir. Here is what saves the meal: the Mencia grape. Light, almost crisp red berry and juicy blueberry notes make this ideal for poultry and roasts. Certainly a contender for best red grape to bring to the Holiday table. Grate some nutmeg in your pan gravy and sip a glass of this, you'll understand where we're coming from!

Andrew's Corner

2008-10-31T13:18:00.000-07:00

2007 Hugh Hamilton Verdelho "The Trickster" Mclarenvale $17.99/ btl

The Black Sheep wines as they are called occasionally, include this vinous application of the PITA grape known as Verdelho. It's origins are from Madeira, Portugal where it's almost unforgivable acidity makes it a great candidate for fortification and long term ageability- the backbone for some Madeira's longevity. Not so Down Under!
In Australia, this Verdelho can get wild on you with overly tropical mango and lychee flavors if the grower is not careful, for the acidity all but disappears when it begins to over- ripen. This little grape needs to be handled and harvested for ACID not SUGAR... get it? Indeed, this is oyster, scallop, shrimp, sharp cheese, salted nut, cut through the olive oil kind of white wine here. Racy? Snappy? This wine has the acidity to make a person drool and coo with pleasure. Think about verdant or citrusy things like lime, tarragon, chervil, meyer lemon, kiwi granita, orange, and white cranberries! More fun and refreshing than New Zealand Sauv Blanc... 'nuff said.

Ol' Faithful

2008-10-31T11:36:00.000-07:00

Bogle Pinot Noir Russian River valley, California 2006 $18.99

It just isn't right not to include a Pinot Noir when gearing up for Thanksgiving. Few, if any, wines are so versatile when it comes to the food choices and opportunities of the Autumnal feast day. Bogle Vineyards is, as you know already, one of the most reliable and affordable wine producers around. Taking this into account, and adding beautifully balanced, cherry inflected Russian River Pinot Noir fruit to the equation, it equals your dollar well spent. Your wallet and your tummy will thank you!

Cellar Selection

2008-10-31T11:17:00.000-07:00

Domaine La Bouissiere Gigondas 2006 $49.99/ btl

OH MY GOODNESS this is as good as it gets! 100% Grenache a la Gigondas from the Southern Rhone valley of France, just near Chateauneuf Du Pape. Absolutely pure cherry liqueur, grilled herb, coffee, and exquisite berry notes define this region and the wine from it. Great Gigondas like this combines the exotic spice of the Rhone Valley, and the warm floral qualities of Provencal lavender. Our favorite cellar style... delicious now and ageable for another 10 years plus!

Holiday Turkeys and Prime Rib beware, we have found the perfect match!

Thanksgiving Gobbledygook

2008-10-31T10:24:00.000-07:00

This is the ultimate side dish of vegetables for Turkey and everything else!

So simple:

1 pound of parsnips, cut into relatively uniform 1 inch pieces
1 pound green string beans, ends snapped and cut in half
2 heads of garlic, cloves peeled and cut in half
1/2 cup good olive oil, or walnut oil if you can find it
sea salt
fresh cracked pepper

Put all prepped ingredients into a bowl with the olive oil
and toss with sea salt and a few grinds of the pepper mill.

Put into a 375 degree oven on a baking sheet
Cook until garlic starts to brown

This provides a grateful rest from opening a can of cream
of mushroom soup and ruining the dish!

Reez!

2008-10-31T10:15:00.000-07:00

2005 Selbach-Oster Riesling Spatlese Zeltinger Schlossberg $25.99/ btl
Simply put, nothing beats an amazing Riesling for November, or anytime. Something about the crisp, ripe apple characteristics and the easy drinkability of this wine just screams for a second or fourth glass. It's okay, because Rieslings from Germany typically have lower alcohol levels than other wines because not all the grape sugars ferment out during vinification. This is good, you won't notice anything missing, and there isn't a sweet syrupy taste left in your mouth because of the clean acidity.

Ned & Henry Bring It to the Party

2008-10-31T10:05:00.000-07:00

2006 Hewitson Shiraz Ned & Henry Barossa valley, Australia $23.99

Here is the soft and supple Shiraz you've been waiting for. Perfect just to sip by itself, due to it's lower acidity, and bright and substantial enough to serve with anything that is roasted on your holiday table. Awesome coffee, cocoa, and blackberry tones bring an extra dimension to turkey and duck as well as complimenting wild rice and caramelized onions.

Betsy's Corner

2008-10-31T07:03:00.000-07:00

2004 Catena Alta Malbec Mendoza, Argentina
Malbec has turned into the go to, value red from Argentina for those looking for the breadth and brawn of Cabernet, and the exotic spiciness of Syrah. Most of what we see in the marketplace is absolutely delicious, but what we run across from time to time are the estate bottlings and reserve wines of already popular wineries. Well here you go! The Catena "Alta" Malbec is borderline superstar wine. We know and love the other Malbecs from Catena, but this one goes all the way to 11 on the pleasure scale. Deep, dark, and rich, with more mocha, spice, and black cherry than we could imagine stuffed into this incredible bottle of wine. For a Holiday meal, a crown rib roast paired with this Malbec would easily surpass all previous meals on the top of your list!
$53.99/ btl

Provocative Pinot!!

2008-10-14T08:01:00.000-07:00

New and EXTREMELY allocated, shipped to ONLY 13 states and guaranteed to sell out,

2006 J.K. Carriere Pinot Noir Willamette Valley, Oregon

$49.99/ btl LIMITED

Here's what the winery says about this incredible Pinot Noir:

"At J.K. Carriere we understand that distraction is the lesser part of valor and therefore try our damnedest not to be. Our focus is on high acid, smooth tannin, classically built Pinot noir and a teensy-weensy amount of mineral-oriented Chardonnay. It’s our understanding that there are only 365 opportunities to focus in any given year . . . and a few must be reserved for skis and fly-rods. Your Saturday night dinner party of eight... or two, is where the J.K. Carriere Willamette Valley Pinot Noir really shines. It is beautifully elegant and will not let you down. As a staple on your table it will consistently make you a hero. This wine is the cornerstone of our winery. If you have to lay only one of our wines in your cellar, this is it."

JUST IN!!!

2008-10-03T13:42:00.001-07:00

2005 Bogle Phantom...

If you know it, you LOVE it. Still $19.99 and LIMITED

You know who you are, and you know how fast it sells out...

Here are the winery notes:

"bogle \bõ’g?l\ n. [Scots, perhaps from Welsh] A goblin; a specter; a phantom; a bogy, boggart or bugbear.

WINEMAKER NOTES
The time is here to start looking over your shoulder… Three unique varietals combine lush berry and fierce spice into a wine characterized by its incandescence. Brighter fruit and brighter spice highlight this vintage of the deep ruby apparition. Aromas of plums and cherries are embraced by touches of black pepper. From the deep dark depths, subtle notes of anise, juniper and vanilla emerge and compliment the concentrated fruit characters of this wine. Captured in 1, 2 and 3 year old American oak barrels, this wine showcases the best these distinct varietals have to offer. Though this wine is remarkable now, age in the bottle will only integrate the three unique varietals more. Welcome the winery ghost into your home again with this latest vintage, and enjoy with full-flavored and hearty meals…before it vanishes again.
Petite Sirah 55% - Zinfandel 42% - Mourvèdre 3%

October Selections!

2008-10-01T13:39:00.000-07:00

Three wines of outstanding quality and value, with extra savings on the trifecta.
One of each wine gets the discount... $37.74 for the 3

2005 Marco Felluga Ribolla Gialla Collio, Italy
An unusual white grape to check out for those tiring of the insipid sea of Pinot Grigio. Ribolla Gialla has all the easy drinkability of PG, but with just a little bit more delicacy of flavor, and less of the watery edges. Pretty and very clean flavors of crisp apple and ripe ruby grapefruit, without the twang, complement the subtle aromas of herb, flowers, and citrus. Try it with the white bean and sage recipe in this issue, it's an amazing wine pairing!
Regular price $16.99 Trifecta price $14.99

2005 Cataperiero Ribatejano, Portugal

Made from the traditional Portuguese grapes Castelao and Trincadeira, with a bit of Alicante Bouchet for good measure, this red from Ribatejano in central western Portugal is as complex and mysterious as the land it comes from. Deep, dark, and rustic, this wine manages to have a polished and smooth ripe fruit quality to match it's rugged personality. Any dish with beef and mushrooms involved makes this wine evn more harmonious and delicious! Also pairs very well with duck and lamb...
Regular price $13.99 Trifecta $11.39

2007 Quinta das Touquinheiras Clemen Reserva Vinho Verde, Portugal

Vinho Verde is Portugal's "green wine" because it is the first wine of the harvest. This shining example in particular, really shows off it's freshness and just barely effervescent characteristics, as an amazing blend of Alvarinho and Trajadura grapes. Light enough for warm Autumn afternoon picnics and boat drinks, and substantial enough to pair with countless different foods when it gets chilly outside. Especially perfect with tapas! Very affordable and lighter in alcohol, here's a refreshing sip anytime, anywhere, even in vast quantities. Sunday for brunch?

Regular price $13.99 Trifecta $11.39

Pic: Clementina Araújo

of Quinta das Touquinheiras

It's Baaaaack...

2008-09-29T07:16:00.000-07:00

MOLLYDOOKER!!
We can’t be responsible if you miss out this time.
They will sell out and fast, and with the new blog:

Towneliquorstore.blogspot.com

these wines may be gone a lot sooner than later…

Step one: Call Betsy 860.889.4637
Step two: Get your credit card ready
Step Three: Pick up your wines at the store
Step Four: Grin… a lot.

Andrew's Corner

2008-09-29T07:15:00.001-07:00

2007 Seresin Estate Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, New Zealand
I know New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc might have gotten a little too much press in the last few years, but this wine demonstrates the reason why. It’s got it all: Fresh and clean aromas of ripe lime, understated tropical fruit like guava, just barely a floral hint, and juicy flavors that just keep giving refreshment and pleasure to the drinker. No feline qualities or overly tart gooseberry notes here!
It is so versatile and drinkable it makes one say, “It’s about time”. The trick, I think, was the addition of a small amount of Semillon grape into the mix, softening and broadening the palate just so. Stands on it’s own, or with any shellfish. It works with New Zealand lamb loin chops and green herbs as well, not to mention grilled veggies. Did I mention that it is also organically produced?
$21.99/ Btl
and worth every penny...

Old School Rioja, New World Charm

2008-09-29T07:14:00.001-07:00

The 2004 Bodegas Lan Rioja Reserva is comprised of three grape varieties: 80% Tempranillo, 10% Mazuelo (Carignan), and 10% Garnacha. Old school style with dusty, chewy tannins, but ample ripe fruit to make it work wonders. Smoky blackberry, cedar, and even a hint of cherry pie crust are indicators of the lush, yet bright, flavors and textures to follow.
This is a great wine to enjoy this time of year whether it be by the grill, on the deck, or next to a warm stove.
A surprising food match for this red from a landlocked region in Spain is grilled white fish like cod, a very important staple fish in Spain no matter what region. Just be careful grilling because it’s so flaky, but if you get just the right char marks on it, it’s a GREAT match with this wine!
$18.99/ Btl $205.09/ Case

This Month's Cellar Selection

2008-09-29T07:13:00.001-07:00

The 2005 Chateau Lalande– Borie St. Julien Bordeaux, aside from the fact that Robert Parker awarded it a 90 point score, is a testament unto itself. Not only was 2005 one of the best vintages in the last 20 years, but wines from that vintage are also starting to smooth out and drink beautifully now. It is evolving with a gracefulness and texture that only Bordeaux can achieve. A solid core of dark, black fruit is surrounded by bright cherry flavors and telltale St. Julien aromas of minerals, graphite, sweet pipe smoke, with hints of fine leather and sage. Very approachable now, especially after 30 minutes or so in the glass, it will age 7 –10 years. It’s no surprise to us that this property is owned by the same people that own Chateau Ducru– Beaucaillou… as a matter of fact Lalande– Borie is next door! Given the popularity of the 1995 vintage, and the exorbitant pricing of the first and second growths, this is a sleeper value from Bordeaux to get your hands on.
$39.99/ Bottle $431.89/ Case

Spaghetti with White Beans and Sage

2008-09-29T07:10:00.000-07:00

Canned white beans work great in this dish…

1 can white beans, drained and rinsed, cannellini or great northern will do
Half of yesterdays baguette
Loose sausage, or links, separated and crumbled
Good olive oil
Fresh sage or thyme
Box of pasta, spaghetti works best
Sea Salt and pepper
2 Cloves garlic, smashed

This dish is so ridiculously simple and unbelievably delicious.
In a skillet, crumble the sausage and brown it, set aside
Make toasty rustic breadcrumbs from the baguette
Boil pasta
Tear the sage leaves into small pieces
When the pasta is done, drain it and put aside.
In the pot that the pasta just left, add a couple of tbls of olive oil and then the garlic.

Saute, but before the garlic starts to brown, add sausage, beans, and sage to warm through.
Add the pasta and toss lightly with half the breadcrumbs and more olive oil.
Serve in big pasta bowls, garnish with fresh sage, a drizzle of olive oil, and remaining breadcrumbs.
Sea Salt and pepper to taste.
Rustic and simple.

Pair with White Beans and Sage

2008-09-29T07:08:00.000-07:00

2004 Caiarossa Toscana IGT Italy
An unusual Italian blend of merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet franc, Sangiovese, Petit Verdot, Syrah, Mourvedre, and Alicante Bouchet brigns the best characteristics of Bordeaux, the Rhone Valley, and Tuscany together in one bottle. Not an easy feat, but upon tasting this complex beauty, one understands how all the components come together to equal a sum greater than all it’s parts. Smoky, deep, and rich aromatics reminiscent of plums, cherries, cocoa, and light vanilla oak commingle with gentle tannic structure and balanced acidity. Graceful and elegant but not a shy wine by any means, this one will stand up to rich meat dishes like lamb shanks, veal chops, osso bucco, and even poultry like goose and duck. Drink some now, and save a few bottles for the holidays… perfect.
$76.99/ Btl

Viognier (Vee Own Yay)

2008-09-29T07:05:00.000-07:00

This beautiful 2007 Domaine de Triennes Viognier Sante Fleur Vin de Pays du Var exemplifies a common commitment to excellence via Domaine Dujac and Domaine de la Romanee Conti. They hold the belief that great wine can be produced in the south of France, and as this wine shows, that it is very true. Subtle and elegant aromas of white peach, chamomile, honeysuckle, and citrusy apricot meet cleansing acidity in a nice framework. When two great proprietors come together with a vision, they deliver a wine worthy of any dinner table.
$17.99/ Btl $194.29/ Case

Betsy's Pick

2008-09-29T07:03:00.000-07:00

2004 HdV Belle Cousine Napa Valley Los Carneros: What does HdV stand for and why does it matter? Simply put, it represents a marriage between two of wine’smost influential icons: Hyde Vineyards of California and the de Villaine Falmily of Domaine de la Romanee– Conti in Burgundy. This kind of winemaking tradition, matched with the incredible quality of fruit from Hyde Vineyards in Carneros, CA makes for a Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon blend that fuses ripeness and finesse.
This 2004 HdV proprietary red earned the name “Belle Cousine” this vintage to show the reverence for the marriage between Pamela Fairbanks (Hyde’s cousin) and Aubert de Villaine of DRC. Only good things can happen to a wine with this kind of pedigree. Financial backup surely helps as well!
The winemaker, Stéphane Vivier, says of this wine, “In the glass, this wine opens into an intense mosaic of spice, blackberry, red fruits, and sweet vanilla. Following this aromatic performance, the wine surges forth with a dense core of black cherry and hickory smoke. Peppered with notes of spice, red fruits, and sweet vanilla, soft mineral tannins accompany the black cherry core through the mid-palate and on to a long finish.”
Could not have described it better ourselves! Of course there is LIMITED quantity of this wine each vintage, and as usual, first come, first served.
$67.99 / Btl $734.29/ Case

September's Selections: 1 each of these 3 for $37.74

2008-09-25T08:39:00.000-07:00

Monthly Wine Club Wines

2007 Pine Ridge Chenin / Viognier California
Chard- no- way meets vee- own- yay. Pine Ridge nails the perfect ten on this landing of crisp white apples and peaches. Chenin Blanc is sourced from Clarksburg, and the Viognier from Lodi. Perfect shellfish and aperitif wine, and it is incredibly affordable. This is your new favorite everyday dry white with a hint of fruit, you know who you are… Reg $16.99 Club $12.49

2005 Benziger Winery Syrah Sonoma County
Benchmark Syrah for this area of California. Clean, bright peppery and raspberry aromas without the funk of some more overboard Syrahs. Ripe dark fruit flavors and a little spice bring medium weight enjoyment to the party with this wine. As you read this, we hope your grill is heating up as we speak. We think Syrah (and merlot) are custom built for skirt steaks. Reg $14.99 Club $12.49

2006 Bogle Vineyards Old Vine Zinfandel California
What’s not to love of one of the most reliable and affordable reds on the market? Ripe, complex fruit from old vines, balanced acidity, user friendly aromas and flavors of blackberry, bramble, and spice? If you don’t already love it, you must not have tried it! $12.99 All Day

We Promis...

2008-09-25T07:41:00.000-07:00

2006 Gaja Ca’ Marcanda Promis
If you’re a fan of the exotic, here is a wine that will give it all up for you, with a delicacy that is hard to come by but in the great wines of Angelo Gaja.
Merlot, Syrah, AND Sangiovese from Tuscany, Italy. Grillin red? Oh yeah, and then some! Plump, spicy, and bright at the same time. Not heavy by any means, this one has all the elegance one craves after sampling so many clunky, heavy reds. Try this with simply grilled bread, and shaved parmagiano reggiano and you’ll understand everything...
$52.99 / Btl

Longboard Vineyards Oded Shakked Does it AGAIN!

2008-09-25T07:17:00.000-07:00

Cowabunga! Who’d a thought such serious and exciting wine could be inspired be the cool California surf? The 2006 Longboard Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc is exactly that. Russian River inspired fruit and classic Sonoma County acidity make for one of the most refreshing whites to pair with just about everything.
Winemaker Oded Shakked (right), formerly of J Winery ventured out on his own a few years ago and never looked back! We met him at the Flying Goat coffee shop in Healdsburg, CA many moons ago while we were gawking at his navy blue Plymouth Woody Wagon from the 40s. We had the chance to taste his wines and were totally blown away! Some of his fruit is sourced from Rochioli Vineyards, and he treats it with utmost respect and gentleness. This is indeed a rare opportunity to taste what handcrafted, small production Sonoma wines can be.
The Longboard Sauvignon Blanc is crisp, with aromas of pineapple, sage, Meyer lemon, and hints of chamomile. Not overly tropical fruity, but more juicy citrus without the pucker…
Don’t miss the chance for the Syrah, either! Blueberry, pepper, spice, and bright blackberry aromas mimic the flavors with a complex finish of toast and jam. This wine was made with outdoor cooking in mind, and that’s a fact!
The Merlot is for Cab lovers… rich and cassis inflected, but with the telltale signs of plum and cherry indicative of top notch Merlot. These wines are limited, no surprise…
2006 Sauvignon Blanc Russian River $18.99
2005 Syrah Russian River $25.99
2006 Merlot Russian River DaKine Vineyard $21.99

Limited Selection!!!

2008-09-25T07:06:00.000-07:00

2006 Beaux Frères Pinot Noir
Oh. My. Goodness… Here we go again, folks! Limited and allocated, first come, first served. Remember what happens when we write up something this good, how it DISAPPEARS before your very eyes? Don’t even blink on this one. This is a winery co– owned by Robert Parker and his brother, that’s why ratings don't exist in the Wine Advocate! As burgundian as US Pinot Noir gets, with subtle bing cherry, clove– like spice, and slight whiffs of black truffle. Plenty of acidity to age well, but why wait?
$87.99 / btl LIMITED!!!