Jan 21, 2-5:30pm $10

Burgundy

Two thousand and nine was one of those heavenly vintages for Burgundy.  In fact, this is one of those rare and blessed years when the gods conspired to produce an incredible assortment of wines that are sure to please any fan of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir.  This is the year that winemakers, collectors and connoisseurs alike have been eagerly awaiting.  The weather conditions were near-perfect, the grapes grew evenly and gracefully and the resulting wines are a wonderful combination of pure red and black fruits, luscious acidity, perfumed aromatics and pronounced minerality.  From the bottom on up, this vintage eloquently captures the very best of the region, whether it be at the grand cru or villages level.
This is a wonderful opportunity to sample some of the region’s finest Red and White Burgundies.  The typically capricious nature of the region is noticeably absent with the 2009s and there is no better time like the present to explore this profound and historically relevant wine-growing region.  Whether you are buying for the cellar or for the table, this tasting is a must for both novice and well-seasoned collector alike.

2009 Burgundy Selections

2009 Vignerons de Buxy, Cote Chalonnaise “Buissonnier” (Chardonnay) $14.95
The Cote Chalonnaise is located at the southern tip of Burgundy in the Cote de Beaune just north of the Maconnais.  It is home to a mineral-rich soil that produces elegant and refined Chardonnay with laser-like precision, robust minerality and refined fruit.  The 2009 Buxy is a classic example, with delicately nuanced notes of honey crisp apple, white flowers, white peach and creamy Meyer lemon flavors.

2009 R. Dubois, Bourgogne Hautes-Cote de Nuits $18.95
Clive Coates fondly refers to the wines of Haut Cotes de Nuits as “deliciously stylish” noting that the “lesser known villages of the Cotes d’Or” offer tremendous satisfaction “at prices that we can afford to drink regularly.”  Domaine Dubois is one such producer and the 2009 HCDN is one such wine.  Very feminine in character and structure, the 2009 offers a delicate balance of lovely red berry fruit, perfumed minerality, silky tannins and a whisper of sweet baking spice.

2009 Domaine Brintet, Mercurey “Vieilles Vignes” $29.95
Mercurey is the flagship village of the Cote Chalonnaise, a winegrowing region that’s celebrated for producing deep, darkly concentrated red wines with plenty of grip.  While Brintet’s 2009 certainly fits that description well, it also has a more feminine side that showcases the succulent fruit, whimsical aromatics and complex spice notes that define the vintage as a whole.  Very pretty with ripe notes of red plum and black raspberry, the 2009 offers up warm notes of winter spice, smoked meats, white pepper and dark cocoa.

2009 Domaine Robert Chevillon, Nuits-Saint-Georges “Vieilles Vignes” $64.95
“A discreet hint of wood sets off an equally expressive and also very fresh nose of animale infused red and dark berry fruit aromas. The rich, mouth coating and intense middle weight flavors are blessed with ample amounts of dry extract that confers a velvety palate impression on the mildly rustic and persistent finish. Solid quality here.” (Burghound)

2009 Domaine Robert Chevillon, Nuits-Saint-Georges “Les Chaignots” Premier Cru $89.00
The 2009 Chaignots comes from 60-year old vines grown on a unique soil matrix composed of clay, limestone and silt.  Slightly closed in its youth, there is a wonderfully perfumed element lurking below the surface.  The palate is dense and chewy with lovely notes of dried cherry, raspberry, red licorice, tilled earth and lavender.  Not since the highly regarded 2002s were released, have we been so impressed with a collection of Red Burgundies.  These are truly grand cru wines at premier cru prices.  The quality is solid and the wines are sure to last for decades to come.

2009 Domaine Henri Gouges, Nuits-St.-Georges “Clos des Porrets St.-Georges” Premier Cru Monopole $83.95
“An attractively complex nose of black raspberry, plum and pungent earth introduces rich, round and fleshy medium weight plus flavors that possess excellent density but also relatively fine supporting tannins that add shape to the strikingly long finish. Sweet spot.  Outstanding.” (Allen Meadows, Burghound) (93 WA)

Available Now

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SFWTC STAFF

Piedmont is home to some of Italy’s most qualitatively important wines and Nebbiolo is at the top of the list in terms of quality, complexity and ageability.  But there is much more to this northwest region than Barbaresco and Barolo, the two principal regions for Nebbiolo.  The small villages of Alba and Asti also produce noteworthy reds from Barbera and Dolectto, two exceptional grape varietals that are designed for instant gratification and pair well with a wide range of cuisines.  Piedmont is also home to a handful of remarkable white wines that reflect their alpine roots, displaying crisp acidity, perfumed minerality and a laser-like precision not unlike the white wines of the Loire Valley.

The Wines

2010 Massolino, Moscato d’Asti Sparkling $19.95
Like walking into an alpine field of wildflowers in bloom, the 2010 Massolino Moscato d’Asti is alive with vibrant aromas of white peaches, crystallized ginger and tangerine blossoms.  The bright acidity keeps the honeyed fruit in check while refreshing the palate with slight effervescence and subtle mineral notes.  Moscato d’Asti is a favorite wine for sommeliers and wine enthusiasts alike who have appreciated Moscato for its dynamic application either as an aperitif, an intermezzo or as a lighter and refreshing dessert wine.

2010 La Ghibellina, Gavi, Mainìn $19.95
La Ghibellina is located in the Gavi appellation of southern Piedmont, near the border with Liguria and less than an hour’s drive to Genoa on the coast. Both Cortese and Gavi can be found here and both wines were elevated to the prestigious status of DOCG in 1999. The Mainìn is made from 100% estate-grown Cortese, fermented and aged in stainless steel.  The wine has a laser-like precision and wonderful minerality that is almost Chablis-like in nature, along with elegant notes of jasmine flower, white tea and green apple.

2010 Renzo Castella, Dolcetto di Diano d’ Alba, Rivolia $14.95
Just south of Alba, the small commune of Diano d’Alba is locally recognized as the prime locale for the production of Dolcetto. Its gently rolling hills are covered almost exclusively with this varietal, which produces the region’s favorite everyday wine.  A delightful medium-bodied red with tons of bright cherry fruit, tar, black olives and pepper.  An excellent choice with cured olives, charcuterie and tomato-based pasta dishes.

2009 Mascarello, Barbera d’ Alba, San Lorenzo $46.95
According to the Wine Advocate: “Bartolo Mascarello was a true icon in Piedmont.”  We’ve been huge advocates of these wines for years and are happy to see that the press have finally taken note as well.  After the death of the legend, Bartolo’s daughter took control of the estate and thankfully hasn’t changed a thing.  The recently arrived 2009 San Lorenzo is a broad and masculine effort with chewy cherry and raspberry fruit, graphite, spice-dusted tannins and mouth-watering levels of acidity.

2008 Brovia, Nebbiolo d’ Alba, Valmaggione $36.95
Nebbiolo d’Alba is one of Piedmont’s best-kept secrets.  While there are many self-described fans of Barolo and Barbaresco, there are far fewer people who are willing to pay the triple digit prices that are often associated with these two venerable wines.  That’s where Nebbiolo d’Alba comes in.  It is an affordable and highly rewarding alternative to Barolo and Barbaresco that could easily double for a softer version of its two bigger brothers.

2007 Clerico, Barolo, Ciabot Mentin (Ginestra) $119.00
“The 2007 Barolo Ciabot Mentin is one of the greatest wines I have ever tasted at this address. Deep, sensual layers of fruit flow from the glass as this full-throttle, intense Barolo reveals its profound, breathtaking personality. The 2007 shows tons of Ginestra nuance, but with extra dimensions to the fruit that literally covers every nook and cranny of the palate. Astute readers will note the slight name change here, which is the result of new regulations that require the use of the historic vineyard name, in this case Ginestra, or a proprietary name. Call me nostalgic, but it is sad to see one of the iconic labels in Barolo disappear. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2027.” (98 Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate)

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SFWTC’s First Tasting of 2012

January 7, 2-5:30pm $10

Cabernet Sauvignon is California’s most important and most sought after wine, and Napa Valley’s real estate prices are what they are because of this grapes’ success, that is beyond question, Cabernet is king! Post WWII is when things really began to move, though there were some amazing wines produced at Inglenook prior to the second world war, but over all quality reached new heights after 1966 when the famed Robert Mondavi opened his own winery after splitting with his family, going on his own away from the Charles Krug Winery where his brother Peter took control after a bitter fight over the direction, Robert proved to be the visionary, he wanted to make Napa a travel destination and make higher quality wines like that of the First Growths in Bordeaux. Later he would even partner with Chateau Mouton-Rothschild to make the now fabled Opus One, after the Baron Rothschild was impressed with the quality of Napa Valley Cabernet.

As the profile of Napa Cab grew names like Chateau Montelena, Ridge, Diamond Creek (the first “Cult” single vineyard Cab) and later Randy Dunn took the grape to new heights and even bested the great house of Bordeaux in blind tastings, and vintages like 1974, 1978 and 1985 became legendary. We in California can consider ourselves more than lucky, as we have had only 2 vintages since 1990 that were deemed sub-par and even the wines of 1998 and 2000 were not as bad as thought!

These days, California has many new and wonderful producers making outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon wines in every price range from everyday styles to rare “Cult” wines, so don’t miss this tasting and see for yourself what this historic grape can do! We are featuring an amazing selection of Cabernets to entice you that showcases the power and richness that could only come from this grape.

The Wines Featured

2009 Avalon, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $13.95
Avalon’s 2009 Cabernet sources fruit from several of Napa’s finest under-the-radar vineyards spanning across the appellation from north to south. Aromas of red and black cherries and juicy plums fill the glass. Several months of oak aging adds a touch of vanilla and warm cedar spice to the decadent bouquet. Flavors of ripe cherry, raspberry and boysenberry jam abound and are well supported by the wine’s spice-laced tannins. As always, this wine packs a serious punch and offers consumers incredible value for the money.

2007 Orsianna, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mendocino $19.95
This cool climate Cabernet Sauvignon comes from select Mendocino vineyards whose unique riverbed soil and proximity to the Pacific Ocean make it ground zero for producing elegantly balanced, seamlessly textured and wonderfully pure Bordeaux-style Cabernet Sauvignon.  Moderate use of oak allows the predominantly plush velvety red fruit to shine, adding subtle spice box and cedar notes on both the nose and palate. An understated 2007 California Cabernet with a genuine sense of terroir. (Silver Medalist, Affairs of the Vine, Cabernet Shootout)

2009 Fisticuffs, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $28.95
Jeff and Carolyn Smith (of Hourglass Wine fame) joined forces with Rob and Pavi Lawson (of Napa Wine Co.) to create Fisticuffs. Drawing on years of experience making wine for Bryant Family, Colgin, Pahlmeyer and Kapcsandy, Lawson sources fruit from choice vineyards in St. Helena and Oakville, applying the same standards and techniques that he uses to craft his cult wines. This is one of our best selling Napa Cabs as it delivers all of the rich, highly textured, bold fruit of a $50 plus Napa Cab at a fraction of the price.

2008 Pride Mountain, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa & Sonoma Counties $64.95
Pride’s Cabernet comes from an estate-owned vineyard that straddles the divide between Napa and Sonoma, drawing the best of both appellations.  Grown at 2000 feet above sea level, this is a classic California Cab with bold notes of sweet black currant, cherry, graphite and pipe smoke.  This wine is all about balance with supple ripe tannins providing a beautiful foundation for the ample dark fruit and lovely spice-rich undertones.

2008 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon “Artemis” Napa Valley $49.95
Artemis Cabernet is named after the Greek goddess of the hunt, and was aptly named because the wine is the result of the culmination of the winery’s hunt for the finest Napa grapes.  A combination of estate vineyards (namely Fay and S.L.V.) along with several meticulously cared for non-estate Napa Valley vineyards, culminate in the ultimate expression of the regional character of Napa Valley.  The Stag’s Leap Vineyards fruit dominates with bold flavors of sweet and sour cherry, dark currant and toasty vanilla oak.

2008 Cade, Cabernet Sauvignon “Napa Cuvee” Napa Valley $59.95
The second of three (2007-2009) consecutive wonderful vintages, the 2008 Cade Napa Cuvee is a worthy successor to the wildly successful 2007. Sourced from some of Napa’s most renowned vineyards including, but not limited to, Beckstoffer’s George the 3rd Vineyard in Rutherford, Kenefick Ranch in Calistoga, and Dr. Crane Vineyards in St. Helena.  Aromas of black cherry, plums and dark chocolate are followed on the palate with flavors of dried herbs, blackberry and warm cherry pie. At once approachable and cellar-worthy, the wine will gracefully age for 3-6 years.

2007 Merus, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $154.00
“Merus’s 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits an inky/purple color as well as an extraordinary bouquet of blueberry liqueur intermixed with graphite, charcoal, cassis, and spice. The wood seems pushed to the background given the extraordinary concentration of fruit. Full-bodied, powerful, and rich with chocolaty espresso notes intermixed with blackberries and blueberries, this pure, impressively textured, long Cabernet should evolve for two decades.” (95 Points, Robert Parker)

SFWTC Staff

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December 31, 2-5:30pm $10

While any sparkling wine is festive and easy to enjoy, Vintage Champagne is serious wine and a rare treat that highlights the year and usually shows the more complex side that can be displayed by the artisans that toil over every detail to make these amazing wines. Though Royalty and James Bond types seem to drink these Champagnes like water, it is not often we get a chance to taste such wines together and see the subtle differences that these wines offer. Vintage Champagne also is more often than not deeper, richer and more powerful than the No-Vintage versions, and they are made to age gracefully in the cellar.

Don’t miss this chance to taste this wonderful selection of fine Vintage Champagne!

The Vintage Selections
2005 Ruelle-Pertois, Blanc de Blancs Brut Champagne, Grandy Cru, Moussy. $44.95
Ruelle-Pertois is a small, family owned and operated Champagne producer located in the town of Moussy.  In total, the house of Ruelle-Pertois has less than  15 acres of vines, from which 4,000 cases of Champagne are made annually, which in Champagne terms is next to nothing. Their vineyards in the Côtes de Blancs are located in Cramant, Chouilly and Oiry, and are all classified as 100% Grand Cru fruit.  The ethereal 2005 Blanc de Blancs is a gorgeous effort with delicately perfumed aromas of white tea, jasmine flowers, honey crisp apples and smoke.

2002 Eric Rodez, Brut Champagne, Grand Cru, Ambonnay. $66.95
Eric Rodez is not only a Champagne producer but he is also the mayor of Ambonnay, the renowned Champagne village in the Montagne de Reims.  About 70% of his Champagne is fermented and aged in oak, leading to a decadently rich and wonderfully creamy mouth-feel. Rodez relies heavily on reserve wines and often blends anywhere from five to ten different vintages in his final cuvees.  The 2002 is made from equal proportions of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and it reveals the complexity of its esteemed origins, with hints of ripe pear and apricot and a touch of recently cut hay.

2002 J. Lassalle, Brut Champagne, Premier Cru, Special Club, Chigny Les Roses. $78.20
The house of J. Lassalle is one of importer Kermit Lynch’s oldest producers, having been in the KL Wine Merchant portfolio for longer than any other producer.  Lassalle’s Special Club is only made in the finest of vintages and is a blend of Chardonnay (60%) and Pinot Noir (40%) from the family’s 10.1 hectare vineyard.  Only the finest vines are selected for the Special Club and the 2002 is a large-scaled effort that is overflowing with honeysuckle, mandarin citrus, pears, bright acidity and plenty of perfumed minerals.

2002 Paul Bara, Brut Champagne, Grand Cru, Special Club, a Bouzy. $91.80
The Montagne de Reims boasts some of the best Pinot Noir in all of Champagne, and Bouzy is without a doubt its capital. The key to Bouzy’s inherent greatness lies in its deep, chalky subsoil, which imparts an intense combination of bold fruit and great minerality in its grand cru wines.  Bouzy is Pinot Noir territory and Bara’s 2002 Special Club is the crown jewel in their Champagne portfolio. This is a real powerhouse with bold, highly textured notes of violets, black truffle, wild strawberry and sweet raspberry and plum fruits.  This is a must-have for any lover of Red Burgundy as the Pinot Noir dominates the nose and palate and is reminiscent of a fine premier cru.

2006 Vilmart & Cie, Brut Champagne, Premier Cru, Grand Cellier D’ Or, Montagne de Reims. $109.00
Named as “one of Champagne’s top estates” by the Wine Advocate, “Proprietor Laurent Champs can be counted on for wines of extraordinary class and elegance.  The 2006 Brut Cuvee Grand Cellier d’Or is a striking wine endowed with tons of class and sheer depth. It shows considerable power in its freshly cut flowers, spices and rich Chardonnay fruit. All of the aromas and flavors build effortlessly to a creamy finish layered with smoke, minerals and ash. This is a fabulous wine in every way, but it will require at least a few more years in bottle.”  (Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate)

2002 Bollinger, Brut Champagne, La Grand Annee. $129.95
“The 2002 Brut La Grande Annee is marvelous. The 2002 is an understated Grande Annee that caresses the palate with layers of effortless, weightless fruit. The mousse is exceptionally fine, which adds to the impression of total elegance. This is a relatively bright, floral Grande Annee with plenty of aromatic lift, inner perfume and no sense of heaviness at all. A rich, creamy finish adds the final note of complexity and pedigree. The 2002 is 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, 71% from Grand Cru villages and 29% from Premier Crus.” (Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate)

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December 24, 2-5pm $10

There’s no time like the present to celebrate the holidays.  Whether you can’t wait for the holidays to arrive or you can’t wait for them to end, nothing does a better job of lifting the spirits and carrying away all of your woes, than a bottle of Champagne. This Saturday we will be pouring a star-studded selection of well-known producers as well as a handful of hidden gems from small grower-producers throughout the region. This star-studded lineup will feature the real deal, not sparkling wines from California or bubbles from any other corner of the globe for that matter. To add further enticement we will also be offering special deals on select Champagnes so stock up now while the savings are good and enjoy Champagne all year round! After all, Champagne is not only an effective way to enhance the holiday season, but it is also a wonderful elixir that can turn any day of the year into cause for celebration. Check out the line up below of small grower/producers we have picked, all were imported by the famed Kermit Lynch.

Non-Vintage Champagne Selections

J. Lassalle, Brut Champagne, 1er Cru Chigny Les Roses $43 (Special Price $36.55)
Long before it was popular to promote the virtues of grower-producer Champagnes, Kermit Lynch was right there at the forefront of the movement with an eye for quality and a pension for all things artisanal. Everything done at this fine estate is done by hand, from the harvest to the disgorging. No corners are cut and the proof is in the bottle. This is a lovely effort with toasty notes of crème brulée and smoky minerals.  The lovely aromatics are complimented by the wine’s generous fruit core and subtle leesy quality.

Veuve Fourny, Brut Grande Reserve Vertus 1er Cru $47.00 (Special Price $39.95)
The Fourny estate is located in the prestigious premier cru village of Vertus, an appellation within the Cotes des Blancs that gives the Fourny family the rare opportunity to grow Pinot Noir as well as Chardonnay. Veuve Fourny produces classic grower Champagne, raising pedigreed fruit, adhering to high standards, and hand-crafting wines that showcase the chalky terroir of Vertus. Like most non-vintage Champagnes, the Brut Grand Reserve embodies the house style at Veuve Fourny impeccably well with elegantly perfumed aromatics, a highly refined texture and a combination of tree orchard fruit and complex minerals that embraces Champagne’s more elegant side.

Paul Bara, Brut Reserve Champagne, Grand Cru $56.00 (Special Price $42.00)
The Montagne de Reims boasts some of the best Pinot Noir in the region, and Bouzy is its capital. The key to Bouzy’s inherent greatness lies in its deep, chalky subsoil, which imparts an intense combination of bold fruit and great minerality in its grand cru wines.  Bouzy is Pinot Noir territory and Bara’s non-vintage Brut Reserve is composed of 80% Pinot Noir with a balance of 20% Chardonnay. This classic cuvee offers up gorgeous notes of freshly cut violets, toast, honeysuckle and baked apples.

Veuve Fourny, Brut Rose Champagne, Vertus 1er Cru $56.00 (Special Price $47.50)
Passionate custodians of the land, the Fourny family has been cultivating the vines of Vertus since 1856.  The Brut Rosé consists of top quality handpicked Pinot Noir (20%) and Chardonnay (80%) from several of the estate’s finest and oldest premier cru vineyards.  A wonderfully refreshing and refined Rosé with gorgeously perfumed notes of red violets and citrus blossoms, white tea and juicy wild strawberry.  The palate is at once assertive and forgiving with bold mineral notes that flatter the elegant red and white fruits and compliment the wine’s outstanding natural acidity.

J. Lassalle, Brut Rose Champagne, 1er Cru Chigny Les Roses $62.00 (Special Price $52.70)
Just like the great whites of the Cote d’Or, the Lassalle Champagnes are allowed to finish their malolactic fermentation, adding a signature richness and complexity rarely found at these price points. All of the cuvées are aged extensively with a minimum of five years in bottle.  This is an astonishing effort with delicate notes of tuberose, honeyed tangerine, black plums and plenty of liquid minerals.  There is a decisively Pinot Noir-like quality on the finish that mixes dried herbs and dusty red berry fruits across a framework of bright mouth-watering acidity.

Paul Bara, Brut Rose Champagne Grand Cru $62.00 (Special Price $46.50)
The Baras make their wines by hand, with low-yielding vines. Andrew Jefford, author of The New France, calls them, “…essential references for anyone who wants to enjoy and understand the ripe, dry richness of Bouzy…”  We couldn’t agree more!  The non-vintage Brut Rose is the winery’s most popular Champagne.  Made from 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay, there is a richness and complexity here that is rarely found in a non-vintage cuvee.  Bright aromas of wild strawberry fruit, black currant and smoky minerals abound followed by hints of fresh herbs, toast and ripe plums.

SFWTC Staff

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The Rhone Valley has always been a bastion of high quality, reasonably priced wines and thankfully still remains so to this day.  While the neighboring winegrowing regions of Bordeaux and Burgundy have seen a tenfold increase in the cost of their wines over the past 10-15 years, the Rhone still maintains its position as one of France’s premier sources for red and whites wines. Home to some of France’s most prestigious vineyards, the Rhone Valley has a little of something for every wine lover.  From the soul-satisfying Cotes-du-Rhone to the age-worthy and incredibly powerful reds of Chateauneuf-du-Pape and Hermitage, the Rhone Valley is an internationally celebrated source for outstanding red and white wines.

Featured Wines

2010 Mas Grand Plagniol, white Costieres de Nimes blanc Tradition $12.95 (Tasting Price $11.66)
Up until recently, the appellation of Costieres de Nimes belonged to the Languedoc region.  However in 2004 it was incorporated into the Southern Rhone Valley and the reason cited for the transfer was the fact that the Costieres de Nimes style was more in line with the wines from the Rhone Valley.  While reds from the region are relatively common, the whites are rather hard to come by.  Mas Grand Plagniol’s 2010 Blanc is a wonderful example that is composed of 50% Roussanne, 40% Grenache Blanc, 10% Viognier and 5% Marsanne.  Lovely floral notes of citrus blossom and honeysuckle abound followed by hints of marzipan, white nectarine and mango.

2009 Domaine Faury, white Saint-Joseph $29.95 (Tasting Price $26.96)
The 2009 Faury Blanc somehow manages to walk that fine line between grace and power, allure and restraint and flamboyancy and modesty.  The nose has an earthy and yet aromatic character with orange blossoms and smoky minerals paving the way for the decadent palate of white peaches, clarified butter and passion fruit. On the finish you will find a whiff of white pepper and a bit of welcome spice in the form of crystallized ginger.
“A lush, flattering style, with creamed melon and glazed white peach flavors backed by fresh sweetened butter, dried pineapple and green fig notes. Creamy and long. Drink now through 2012. 100 cases imported.” –JM (91 WS)

2010 Andrieux & Fils, red Vacqueyras Vielles Vignes $19.95 (Tasting Price $17.96)
The 2010 vintage was a wildly successful year for the Rhone Valley with near-perfect weather conditions and a very even growing season.  This sumptuous blend of roughly 75% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre and 5% Syrah is a highly textured effort that embodies the very spirit of the Southern Rhone Valley.  Ripe raspberry and blackberry fruit abound followed by hints of red licorice, dried herbs de Provence, toasted almonds and bittersweet chocolate.  A classic Rhone Valley delight that really packs in the flavor at a very reasonable price.

2009 Andre Perret, red Saint-Joseph $29.95 (Tasting Price $26.96)
While perhaps better known for producing outstanding Viognier from the small Northern Rhone appellation of Condrieu, Andre Perret also happens to produce top-quality reds from Saint-Joseph.  The 2009 is a stunning example of Andre’s talent both in the cellar and the vineyard.  It overflows with lovely aromatics from red violets to wild game and crushed black peppercorns.  The palate is smooth and sumptuous with lovely notes of ripe plum, blackberry preserves, herbs de Provence and leather.

2009 Domaine Les Pallieres, red Gigondas “Les Racines” $44.95 (Tasting Price $40.46)
This single vineyard Gigondas is a joint project between importer Kermit Lynch and the Brunier family of Vieux Telgraphe fame.  The grapes are sourced from vines with an average age of 60-years old and yields are pathetically low.  “The deep ruby-hued 2009 Gigondas Les Racines Vieilles Vignes offers a perfumed bouquet of crushed rocks, raspberries, black cherries, currants and hints of garrigue as well as spice box. Velvety-textured, opulent and long, with stunning purity and equilibrium, it should drink well for 10-15 years.” (91-94 WA)

2009 Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe, red Chateauneuf-du-Pape “La Crau” $77.95 (Tasting Price $70.16)
“The wine is aged 18 months in foudres and concrete tanks. This classic offering had just been bottled before my visit, so it was probably tighter than it will be in 6-12 months. Deep ruby/purple-colored with notes of garrigue, seaweed, licorice, plums, black cherries and raspberries, it typically reveals a Mediterranean sea breeze-like character that is difficult to articulate. The sweetness of the tannin, full-bodied mouthfeel, and evolved style remind me somewhat of the 1983, which is still drinking beautifully. The 2009 can be consumed now or cellared for two decades.” (92 WA)

Thanks to Charles Neal, and to all that attended,  for a night full of  magic and insight on Calvados!

“Calvados: The Spirit of Normandy By Charles Neal is an astounding 700-page stroll through the history and culture of Normandy and Calvados producers, through orchards and cellars, down to seemingly esoteric details, like what a producer might have scribbled in chalk on a typical barrel.”

— Eric Asimov, New York Times

Signed Copies available by special request!

The Charles Neal Selection Calvados in stock now

Domaine de Montreuil, Calvados de Pays d’Auge Reserve Pays d’Auge $47.00
A blend of 30 varieties of apples, appoximately 8 years old.
Shows forthcoming apple flavors, along with a touch of vanilla, smoke, spice and subtle hint of beeswax.

Lemorton, Calvados Domfrontais AOC Reserve $55.00
From the Domfrontais appellation that specializes in pears rather than apples, these calvados are made with 70-80% pears.
•Golden straw.
•Light pear aromas along with a touch of vanilla.
•Deep gold straw.
•Pear and floral notes on the nose and palate.

Adrien Camut, Calvados de Pays d’Auge 6 Year Old  $70.00
•Aromas of green apple and caramel.
•Impressive viscosity for a relatively young (hors d’age) spirit.
•Long finish reminiscent of initial aromas.

Calvados Michel Huard, Calvados Hors d’Age 90 – 92 – 99 $82.00
From the central Calvados Appellation, AOC Calvados.  Made with 40 varieties of Apples, grown on rich clay soils.  Distilled once.  Bright apple flavors along with vanilla and earthy richness.

Adrien Camut, Calvados de Pays d’Auge 12 Year Old  $103.00
•Forward aromas of baked apple, honey, cream, spice.
•Layered notes of smoky green apple in mouth.
•Displays plenty of depth for its relatively young age.
•Long, pure finish.

Adrien Camut, Calvados de Pays d’Auge 18-Year-Old  Privilege $130.00
•Amber.
•Melted toffee along with subdued notes of spiced apple and honey.
•Lovely round mouthfeel, with just a finishing touch of smoke and floral notes.

Adrien Camut, Calvados de Pays d’Auge Reserve de Semainville $195.00
A blend of 25-30 year old Calvados.
•Deep Amber.
•Refined, rich, sweet nose of baked apples, melted toffee, honey and a hint of tobacco.
•Plenty of bright apple fruit in the mouth with a finishing note of cigar spice and almond.

Adrien Camut, Calvados de Pays d’Auge Reserve d’ Adrien $273.00
A blend of 35-40 year old Calvados, 80 proof
•Deep Amber.
•Hint of walnut (rancio) on nose.
•Rich and round apple notes in total harmony with alcohol and tannin.
•Creamy texture allows waves of developed vanilla to glide across the palate.
•Finishes with hints of cigar spice and a touch of orange.
•Lovely fond-de-verre.
“Complex, long and perfectly balanced. A perfect partner for a robust cigar.”
— L’Amateur de Cigare

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Tuscany’s winegrowing region is built upon an ancient foundation that is steeped in tradition and includes a long list of highly diverse wines that include so much more than the ubiquitously known and loved Chianti Classico. Long before the first Etruscans made their appearance and cultivated Italy’s very first vineyards, wild vines grew in abundance all over Tuscany’s gently rolling hills and green pastures. The region’s soil, vast microclimates and bountiful grape varietals, make it one of Italy’s most dynamic wine growing regions.
Today, Tuscany accounts for over thirty different DOCs and half a dozen DOCG wines. In addition to the great, well-known and appreciated reds of Brunello, Vino Nobile de Montepulciano, Morellino di Scansano and Chianti, the local production includes a few distinguishable whites, the most notably, Vernaccia di San Gimignano. Some of the country’s most famous wines belong to Tuscany and with good reason. It is a region that balances tradition with innovation and is home to some of Italy’s newest and oldest wine-producing zones.

Wine Selection

2010 Aia Vecchia Vermentino $12.95 (Tasting Price $11.66)
The seaside vineyards of Aia Vecchia, that are owned by the Pellegrini family, whose reputation for producing top-quality Tuscan wines is known throughout the region.  The 2010 Vermentino comes from the gently sloping hills that overlook the Mediterranean, benefiting both from the warm heat that radiates from the sea’s surface throughout the day, and its cooling effect at night.  Straw yellow in color, the bouquet is fresh and pure with delicate floral aromas of jasmine and mandarine blossoms, followed by flavors of ripe pear, saline mist and apricot pit.

2010 Poderi Sanguineto, IGT Bianco Toscano $21.95 (Tasting Price $19.76)
The 2010 Bianco Toscano by Sanguineto is a native blend of Malvasia Bianco, Malvasia Verde, Biancame, Grechetto and Trebbiano. The grapes were picked by hand and macerated on the skins overnight then rushed to press the following morning in order to preserve their freshness.  Fermented on the fine lees in glass lined cement tanks, the wine was then aged in stainless steel for eight months before going to market.   An exotic and ultra-refreshing white wine with lovely tropical fruit notes, bright minerals and a tangy citrus-infused finish.

2009 Moris Farms Morellino di Scansano $21.95 (Tasting Price $19.76)
A recent article in the Wine Advocate called the Moris Farms’ Morellino di Scansano “one of Italy’s finest values” noting that the 2009 once again lived up to its reputation for producing a top-quality wine at a humbly low price.  A blend of 90% Sangiovese (plus roughly equal parts Merlot and Syrah), the 2009 boasts ripe notes of succulent red fruits, violets and tar along with hints of smoked meat, black licorice and dark peppery spice.

2009 Talenti Rosso di Montalcino $24.95 (Tasting Price $22.46)
Situated in the far southern regions of Montalcino, the 2009 Rosso comes from the estate’s younger-vine Sangiovese Grosso, the unique sub-variety of Sangiovese only found in the vineyards that surround the medieval town of Montalcino.  Often referred to as a “baby Brunello” this bold red stains the teeth with its cherry-infused core, offering fragrant notes of kirsch, scorched earth, tobacco and bittersweet chocolate.

2008 Le Berne, Vino Nobile de Montepulciano $29.95 (Tasting Price 26.96)
Prugnolo Gentile is the regional name for Sangiovese Grosso (same clone as Brunello).  In the vineyards of Montepulciano, Prugnolo Gentile tends to produce dark and chewy wines of bold structure, nobility and grace.  This estate-grown traditional blend of Prugnolo Gentile, Canaiolo and Mammolo displays deep notes of dusty cherry fruit, brambly spice and blueberry.  Mid-palate flavors of cocoa, black peppercorns and brandied cherry merge with seamless precision with highly textured oak-laced tannins that gently frame the wine’s deep fruit core.

2007 Castello di Ama, Chianti Classico $41.95 (Tasting Price $37.76)
“The 2007 Chianti Classico Castello di Ama is fabulous. There is so much going on in the glass, as endless layers of perfumed dark red fruit caress the palate in stunning style. The wine’s precision, elegance and overall sense of harmony are all first class. Smoke, tar and roses add the final layers of complexity on the finish. Today the wine is mostly remarkable for its exceptional silkiness; readers will have to wait at least a few years for the aromatics and flavors to develop tertiary nuances. The Castello is a wine that sets a new standard for what is possible within the Chianti Classico appellation..”  (93, Wine Advocate)

SFWTC Staff

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An American holiday deserves an American wine.  And no grape grown in the United States today is more American than Zinfandel.  California’s Grape, Zinfandel is originally from Croatia where it goes by the name Crljenak, and it was officially introduced to California in 1852, and has been known in Italy as Primitivo for a long time. While the scholars still may not all agree about the origins of Zin in the USA, one thing is for certain–that after over one century of cultivation in the vineyards of Northern California, the grape, like the rest of us, is now American.  Zin is a complex grape with many different facets, nuances and variations.  It can be dry, dusty and wonderfully peppery or luscious, fruit-driven and decadently opulent.  Zin is often praised for its ability to reflect both the winemaker’s style while simultaneously expressing a genuine sense of terroir. The clonal selection, vineyard designation, unique microclimate and winemaker preference all contribute to the diverse variety of Zins available today.  It is our best selling wine over the Thanksgiving holiday as it possesses naturally low tannins and plenty of spicy, briery-laced fruit,  plus it pairs wonderfully with turkey leftovers and all of the fixings!

The Wines Featured

2009 Klinker Brick Zinfandel, Old Vine, Lodi $14.95 (Tasting Price $13.46)
Many producers label their Zins “old vines” when the truth is that the vines are mere juveniles at best!  In fact in order to truly qualify as Old Vine, the vines cannot be a day younger than 50!  Klinker Brick’s Old Vine blend hails from a handful of select Lodi vineyards whose vineyards are ancient to say the least.  These “old timer vines” as the folks at Klinker Brick fondly call them, produce highly concentrated
Zins with plenty of rich personality.  The 2009 Lodi Zin offers up bold notes of anise, blackberry, fennel, roasted espresso beans and rosemary spice.

2008 Layer Cake Primitivo, Puglia, Italy $16.95 (Tasting Price $15.26)
Produced by the global wine trotting team of Hundred Acre Vineyard, Jayson Woodridge has miraculously managed to source high quality fruit in multiple countries (and both hemispheres) while churning out top quality and affordable wines for every day consumption. “This spicy wine has an inky ruby/purple color and lots of body. It comes across like a rustic Zinfandel, but with loads of character and personality, displaying an almost savage intensity to its flavors. This is a wild, adventuresome wine that should drink nicely for several years.” (Robert Parker)

2010 Orin Swift, The Prisoner, Napa Valley $34.95 (Tasting Price $31.46)
Winemaker, Dave Phinney, has done it again with the latest release of the 2010 Prisoner.  Arguably this famous Napa Valley winery’s most popular wine, the Prisoner is an exceptional blend of Zinfandel, Cabernet, Syrah and Petit Sirah that combines the jammy fruit of a Zin or Petit Sirah with the structure of a Cab and elegant spice of Syrah.  The just released 2010 version is a cherry-infused teeth-staining delight with bold and concentrated notes of black currant, ripe raspberry compote, dried rose petal, grilled toast and plenty of sweet, sappy oak.

2009 Ridge, Geyserville, California $34.95 (Tasting Price $31.46)
Ridge’s founder/winemaker, Paul Draper is a master blender.  One of the state’s earliest proponents of Zinfandel, Draper championed the use of other grape varietals in his dynamic cuvées, paving the way for countless winemakers in the decades to follow.  The Geyserville blend has been produced since 1966.  It comes from three adjacent Sonoma County vineyards and is a blend of Zin, Carignane, Petit Sirah, Alicante Bouschet and Mourvedre.  Medium to full-bodied, the 2009 has an intoxicating nose of ripe cherry, black tea, smoky tar and mint.  The flavors saturate the palate with notes of raspberry, white pepper, sweet cedar spice and black plum.

2007 Storybook Mountain Estate Blend, Anataeus, Napa Valley $38.95 (Tasting Price $35.06)
According to Robert Parker, Storybook is “One of the most reliable producers of Zinfandel in Napa.  Proprietor Jerry Seps continues to produce very elegant Zinfandels that lean more toward wines with a Pinot Noir sensibility than many other Zinfandels.” Located on the eastern slopes of the Mayacammas Range, high above Napa Valley, Storybook has been producing hand-crafted Zins from estate vineyards since 1983.  The 2007 Anataeus is a wonderful blend of Zinfandel, Cabernet, Merlot and Petit Verdot with elegant, Bordeaux-like structure that compliments the spicy brambly, blackberry fruit core.

2009 Gamba Zinfandel “Moratto Vineyard” Russian River $34.95 (Tasting Price $31.46)
Planted in 1920, this ancient hillside vineyard is located near the Gamba estate, right off of Limerick Lane and is famous for producing inky black, decadently rich, petal-to-the-metal Zinfandels.  Yields are pathetically low and the resulting wine is deeply concentrated with bold notes of dark chocolate, brandied cherries, blackberry compote, toasty cedar and green peppercorn spice.  A wonderful wine with richer, fuller-flavored dishes or an artisanal cheese plate.

SFWTC Staff

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Wondering what wines to serve with your turkey and all of the fixings?  Well, wonder no more!  This Saturday, we have dedicated our entire afternoon tasting to wines that pair well with the smorgasbord of culinary delights that is Thanksgiving dinner.  This holiday is one of the most perplexing to our customer base and with good reason.  With so many different dishes on the table, it can be rather daunting to select wines that will pair nicely with everything that’s been prepared.  But never fear!  We will help you take the guesswork out of food and wine pairing and point you in the right direction, no matter what you’re serving or what the budget.  Our international selection offers a wide array of red, white, sparkling and pink wines that are sure to match up with anything that you are planning to serve and we have chosen several of our favorites to pour this at this Saturday’s wine tasting.  Drop by and taste for yourself.

The Wine2010 Roland Schmitt, Riesling, Alsace $18.95
Domaine Roland Schmitt is a small, family owned and operated producer that has been producing wines from their estate vineyards in Bergbieten since the 17th century.  Glintzberg is organically cultivated, butted up against the Grand Cru vineyard of Altenberg, and produces a crisp, clean Riesling with laser-like precision.  Distinctively dry, the nose offers up hints of green melon, citrus and honeysuckle.  The palate is infused with chunky minerals, white nectarines and fresh ginger.

2010 Qupe Bien Nacido Cuvee (Viognier/Chardonnay) Santa Maria Valley $18.95
Qupe is dedicated to producing handcrafted Rhone varietals and single vineyard Chardonnay from California’s Central Coast. The 2010 Bien Nacido Cuvee is an original blend of Viognier and Chardonnay from the famed Bien Nacido Vineyard.  Barrel fermented in 25% new François Fréres barrels, this rich and highly perfumed house cuvee offers up lovely notes of white peaches, grilled citrus, perfumed jasmine and crème brulée.

2006 Fratelli Cavallotto, Langhe Bricco Boschis Freisa, Piedmont $21.95
Freisa is rare native grape to the hills between Asti and Turin and has a bitter/sweet dynamic, making it great with food. Highly perfumed with gorgeous notes of violets, candied red fruit and fennel, this medium-bodied gem has a smooth entry of red and black fruits and a finish that persists for a good 30 seconds.

2009 Trenel, Julienas “L’Espirit de Marius” Beaujolais $21.95
Trenel’s Juienas is a single vineyard selection of old Gamay Noir vines named in honor of the original vineyard manager.  Unfined and unfiltered, this lovely effort showcases the softer, more feminine side of the grape without compromising the generous, briery-infused fruit core.  The 2009 exhibits lovely notes of baked plums, fresh strawberries, crushed minerals, white pepper and fennel.

2009 Brewer-Clifton Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills, California $32.95
“No one has done more to carry the banner for the Santa Rita Hills than Greg Brewer and Steve Clifton. The 2009 Pinot Noir is a highly expressive wine. Sweet red fruit, herbs, licorice, dried flowers and mint are some of the notes that emerge from this mid-weight Pinot. The 100% stems come through in the wine’s aromatic profile and high-toned finish. This is a terrific introduction to the house style and a fabulous effort at this level.” (92, Robert Parker)

2009 Sans Liege “The Offering” Santa Barbara, California $27.95
Sans Liege Wines offers extraordinarily unique hand-crafted Rhone-inspired wines from California’s Central Coast and beyond. “The Offering” is winemaker Curt Schalchlin’s homage to the great red blends of Chateauneuf-du-Pape.  Composed primarily of Grenache with some Mourvedre, Syrah and a touch of Viognier, this wine embodies the philosophies of Old and New World winemaking techniques with daring perfection.  Aged in mostly neutral French barrels so as not to interfere with the succulent and ultra-pure fruit core, this sumptuous blend offers a medley of flavors from smoked meats, to white peppercorns, spiced chocolate and brambly, berry-infused fruit.

2002 Huet, Vouvray, Cuvee Constance, Loire Valley 500ml $99.95
“Delivers the panoply of ginger, lemon cream, green tea, honeycomb and mango flavors you expect from a world-class dessert wine, combined with a lacy, filigreed texture and mineral underpinning that is rare. So pure and balanced, all the sweetness is absorbed on the finish, leaving an incredibly tender yet exhilarating impression of fresh fruit. Drink now through 2040. 199 cases made.” (99, Wine Spectator)

SFWTC Staff

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