Portfolio

Question 1

Domaine Pral

Answer 1

JP Bourgeois; Beaujolais, France.

https://jp-bourgeois.com/wineries/domaine-marion-pral/
Sustainable
Beaujolais Blanc: $17.97
Blend: 100% Chardonnay
Village of La Roche, southwest hillside vineyards, on granite soil. 1700 ft
Aged 8 months in concrete tanks.
“ an uncommon and thrilling kind of terror for Chardonnay, down in Granite-rich, Beaujolais. It’s white flour, apple, and quince aromas have a bright, clear focus that’s impossible to miss. That’s even more the case on the pallet where is silky texture and lightly nutty finish throw these dazzling flavors into sharp relief.”
Ideal with grilled oysters or chicken Camembert and hearty salads.

Beaujolais Rouge Cuvée Terrior: $17.97
100% Gamay, 45 year old vines
6-8 months in concrete tanks.
Roses, ripe cherry, and strawberry dominate in the nose and on and exuberantly right pallet with hints of fruit pit, bitterness offering counterpoint. Attractive, suggestions of salt and stone and a soft texture. Landmark AOP Beaujolais bottling that’s more reminiscent of lighter lighter crus, such as Fleurie and Brouilly thanks to the organic viticulture and 45-year-old vines.

Morgon Les Charmes: $22.57
100% Gamay, 1000 ft. Elevation, 6-8 months in older French Demi-Muir barrels.
Beaujolais’s most admired and longest lived Cru is an optimal way to showcase the caliber of winemaking at Domaine Marion Pral. Les Charmes shows why it’s one of Morgon’s top Vineyard sites as rich berries, mesh harmoniously with a firm tannic streak, layers of brown space, and dried rose petal that unfurl seductively as the wine relaxes into a plush, ample finish. Keen acidity keeps everything lively enough for charcuterie, rotisserie chicken, mushroom pasta, or Massaman curry.
500 cases produced.

Moulin-a-Vent: $22.57
100% gamay, 45 year old vines, 1700 ft. Elevation, 8-10 months in older French Demi-Muir oak barrels.
A complex nose with rich, extracted red fruits and berries leads to a sturdy and fruity palate on a subtle layer of brown space. A very elegant cru Beaujolais that can be enjoyed now or aged for up to six years.
800 case production wine.

Question 2

Chateau Pas de l’Ane* no tech sheet

Answer 2

JP Bourgeois; Bordeaux, France;

Saint Emilion Grand Cru 2015; $68.05

Question 3

Dumenil

Answer 3

Kindred Vines; Champagne, France

Grand Reserve (375 mL, Special Only): $26.63

Premier Cru Brut Grande Reserve NV: $50.60
1er Cru: Reserve wines form 20 different harvests are blended to give the maturity that makes Brut Grande the ideal partner for any happy social occasion.
33% Chardonnay (finesse), 34% Pinot meunier (fruitiness) 33% Pinot noir (body)
Never ending streak of fine bubbles riding to a persistent ring of mousse. Delicate aromas of white flowers vie with notes of white fruit (apple and pear) and lead on to elegant hints of yellow fruit (peach and apricot). Seductive, mouth watering, a touch of brioche. Perfectly balanced.

Premier Cru Amour de Cuvée NV (premier Cru Brut): $67.62
50% Pinot meunier (mun-yay!) 50% Pinot noir
Fruity marriage of the seductive aromas of Pinot meunier and the nobility of Pinot noir. Only the finest wines bring freshness and finesse to this Blanc de Noirs champagne.
Fine bubbles as expected, riotnof red fruit aromas on the nose (black and red currants, and wild strawberries) with dried fruit, grilled almonds, quince and plums. On the palate notes of raspberry and crushed strawberry under pinned by a pleasant freshness. A rich texture and superb balanced between substance and vivacity with a delicate biscuity note on the very long finish.
Red fruit tart dessert or traditional dishes such as foie gras.
Aged on lees for 5 years in the cellar.

Premier Cru Special Club: $89.12
“This impressive dry wine is made as part of a club of producers who taste and evaluate each others wines before release. A blend of 60% Pinot noir and 40% Chardonnay, it is full of white fruit with a toasty edge that gives the wine weight. Behind this is a strongly mineral character with bite and zest that will allow it to age further.”
Youthful aromas of white fruit and citrus. Attack is hood and pure leading to fresh, lemony sensation on the palate lemony.
Important meetings, fine dining. Shellfish and fish.

Premier Cru Les Pecherines NV: $63.87
80% Chardonnay 20% Pinot noir
Excellent match for exotic salads (prawns and avocado), sweet and sour dishes
Grapefruit, passion fruit and mango. Nuts and toasty nuts. On the palate: exotic fruits, pineapple. Crazy with a hint of brioche.
Needs aging.

Question 4

Philippe Fontaine

Answer 4

JP Bourgeois; Champagne, France

Sustainable
30 year old vines, chalky and marly soils from the superior Jurassic era
590 ft elevation
All bottled at the estate a minimum of 3 months before release

Brut Tradition NV: $43.01
70% Pinot noir 30% Pinot meunier
20 months sur latte aging
Flagship bottling stands out among grower champagnes for its Blanc de Noirs cépage and extended time en tirage. These unusual steps give this a complexity and creamy richness, not commonly found in such affordable champagnes. Golden citrus an orchard fruits, lilt along a silky textured pallet that glides into a very fresh and cleansing finish. Does tremendous value pairs well with apéritifs, so soft cheeses, and any light fair.

Cuvée does Lys Blanc de Blanc: $63.44
100% Pinot Blanc
18 months sur latte
100% Pinot Blanc champagne is rare enough, but vintage versions can literally be counted on one hand, so this micro production wine generates a ton of excitement upon every release. Like still Pinot blancs, it’s fresh and elegant with aromas of white flour, exotic fruits, pear, cinnamon, and green almond. The palette is generous, bright, and carries all the aromatics in a luxurious swirl of tight and persistent perlage. The long finish deepens the wine a bit with fuzzy apricot and a bit of warm ginger. It’s a stunning individualistic one that makes for a great apéritif, but will certainly enhance seafood dinners. It seems to have a special affinity for lighter octopus and squid dishes likes ceviche, as well as quiches white pizzas and fruity desserts.

Millisime Brut 2008: $?
100% Pinot noir
48 months sur latte aging
A bright yellow hue with subtle reflections of copper, this elegant and fine champagne, offers aromas of lychee and peach. On the pallet, this wine is lively and bright with soft texture of almond paste, brioche and subtle notes of blueberries. Enjoy with your apéritif, sushi, Oaxacan food or dessert

Question 5

Charles Orban

Answer 5

Kindred Vines; Champagne, France

Carte Noir Brut NV: $44.93
40% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Meunier, 30% Pinot noir
A clear, golden color, fine elegant bubbles. A delicate nose dominated by citrus fruit and hints of fudge. Superb length, smooth with brioche aromas and subtle notes of honey, Pune nuts and light tobacco.
Aperitif or pair with white meat or figs.
“A note of woodsy smoke underscores flavors of tangy plum, candies kumquat, white peach and fresh ginger in this mouthwatering champagne. Backed by firm citrusy acidity.”

Brut Rose NV: $48.57
50% Pinot noir, 30% Chardonnay, 15% vin rouge aoc champagne, 5% meunier
Deep salmon color, pretty string of bubbles. Elehantbnose dominated by notes of peaches, roses, and peonies. Lively on the palate with initial apricot aromas and a red berry finish.

Question 6

Fleur Violette

Answer 6

Kindred Vines; Languedoc, France

Chardonnay: $13.37
From the village of St. Pierre in La Clape territory. Nickname of the village is the island of great wine because at one point in history it was an island. High cliffs along the sea, canyons and hills where pine wood grows.
Well crafted, rich white from the south of France with loads of ripe apple, pears and cram flavors. Light oak lends to a smooth buttery finish with refreshing acidity.
White meat, shellfish, and grilled shrimp.

Cabernet Sauvignon: $13.37
Focused and sophisticated with flavors of dark plum, currant, dark Cherry, and dried herbs which linger with graphite and mineral. A good backbone of acidity. (Suggests that this wine can benefit from short term cellaring.)
Duck breast, red meats and grilled dishes.

Question 7

Le Versant

Answer 7

Kindred Vines; Languedoc France

Voignier: $15.62
Intense apricot, peche de vigne, and rose. Slight hints of ginger and mints. Strong and generous on the palate developing towards a notably smooth and fruit finish.
Batonnage (stirring settles lees back into wine) on the lees (sediment of wine making, usually made up of dead years and bits of grape seeds and solids) to accentuate plumpness on the palate.

Pinot Noir: $15.83
Aromatic nose of black cherries with elegant floral notes. Silly and well balanced with smooth tannins.
Poultry, cold meats and soft cheeses.

Question 8

Reserve St. Marc

Answer 8

Kindred Vines; Languedoc, France
Committed to organic agriculture

Chardonnay: $11.87
Easy drinking, fresh. White flesh fruits and flowers.
Grown on the hottest and driest soils of the Languedoc on dry and pebbly lands.
Aperitif or with seafood

Cabernet Sauvignon: $11.87
Black fruit and “vegetal” flavors on the nose. Silky in the mouth and delivers fresh and spicy aromas.
All red meats and grilled dishes.

Merlot: $11.87
Aromas of cassis enhanced by hints of cocoa. Full, fruity? And eminently supple on the palate.

Question 9

Domaine Beausejour

Answer 9

JP Bourgeois; Loire, France

Sustainable farming
Chalky clay soils for one, and sands on clay with schistes for the other.

Touraine Sauvignon Blanc Les Grenettes: $17.33
200 ft elevation
8 months in stainless steel tanks, on its lees.
Closer to Sancerre than your average Touraine Sauvignon Blanc. Delicate lily, boxwood, honeysuckle botanical notes complement peach and lychee on the nose. Velvety texture, well integrated yet bracing acidity and a snap of chalky minerality that keep the wine both lively and supple. A round, full finish that lingers long enough to reprise the noses floral aspects that serve as a foil to the luscious golden stone fruit. Natural pairing with moules marinières, a chèvre and herb omelet, or a heartier salad, but equally delicious on its own.

Gamay Noir/Cot Cuvee Vincent: $16.69
85% gamay, 15% Malbec
Sandy, clay, and silex soils.
300 ft.
6 months in stainless steel tanks
One of those rare red wines that can be chilled down for hot weather in served at cellar temperatures in cooler seasons, and be equally enthralling and either setting. 25 year old vines, growing on Sandy, chalky, and Silex soils give this a bright Ruby color that matches the intense aromas of ripe and sweet, red and black fruits with soft, dark spices. The palate adds a subtly, savory meaty note to the noses fruit and the round body, very soft texture and well-balanced flavor. Pair with charcuterie, cheese, and your day today meals. Enjoy over the next five years at 58°.

Question 10

Monmousseau*

Answer 10

Monmousseau; Loire, France
Wines made entirely in the cellar.

L’essentiel Brut Zero NV: $21.61

Cuvée prestige JM Touraine Brut NV: $19.79
Cuvée prestige JM Touraine Rose Brut NV: $19.79
The Loire Valley offers perfect conditions for sparkling wine and Monmousseau is a family company specialising in “Methode Traditonelle” wines from Touraine. This Rose Cuvee, consists of Cabernet Franc (70%) and Gamay (30%). Beautiful salmon pink with a very fine persistent bead, features crisp, clean, dry flavours reminiscent of cherries and raspberries, the 15 months spent on lees gives a complexity not often seen at this price point. Enjoy it chilled as an aperitif, or with shellfish, bouillabaisse, pork, or smoked salmon.

Cremant de Loire NV: $20.64

Touraine Sauvignon Blanc: $18.18
A delicate straw-like yellow color. Slightly musky aromas of flowers and citrus fruit. The wine is young and fresh, but keeps its fat and round character to the taste, with a long-lasting note. Remarkable as an aperitif wine, it will express all its flavor when tasted with fish or seafood.

Vouvray: $18.40
Rock, mineral
The nose and the mouth are very complimentary seduced by some sweet apple aromas which then goes to lime. A remarkable balance between a tender and very aromatic structure, and the elegant touch of bitterness of the Chenin Blanc grape-variety. It is a wine for ageing that will develop with pleasure during 5 to 6 years keeping all its freshness. Drunk young they are vibrant and fresh with aromas of fruit its color will go to some golden tones then slightly amber with age

Rose d’Anjou: $16.15
Blending of Cabernet Franc and Grolleau.
A pale pink color, slightly salmon and translucent, seduces the eye. Semi-sweet, light in alcohol, very aromatic with red fruit smells, it is a ‘ summer wine ‘ par excellence. Serve it chilly at about 8°C. Perfect with poultry and white meat, it skillfully goes with all spring and summer meals. You can also appreciate it during hot sunny summer afternoons.

Chinon: $19.14
100% Cabernet Franc. A beautiful ruby color. A subtle and intense bouquet of red fruit with a note of violets, you can find this again in mouth. Fleshy but elegant, this wine also has a good structure which will enable it to age nicely for several years. Chinon can be drunk young or after several years in your cellar.

Question 11

Elicio* vdp or IGP?

Answer 11

JP Bourgeois; Rhone, France

Sustainable
Elicios producer, Caravinsérail echos the caravansary of the dessert, a propitious place for travelers to rest, meet, and relax in a congenial atmosphere.
Dry, hot, windy area with clay and limestone soil

Blanc (VDP Mediterranee): $14.12
100% vermentino
900-1400 feet in elevation.
7 months stainless steel tank.
Clear, pale-yellow, fulsome saline, herbal, citrus, and tropical fruit nose. Explode full bodied palate with fine details such as olive oil, garrigue, and juicy fruit flavors with a pleasant acidity and a persistent salty tang.
All occasions, especially shellfish, Mediterranean style seafood dishes, pungent southeast Asian dishes and shell beans.
Twist off!

Rose (VDP Mediterranee): $14.44
80% Grenache, 20% syrah
100-250 ft. Elevation
5 months in stainless steel
Easy Provençal style. Bright pink and nose full of fresh raspberry and heady flowers lead to a juicy palate that echos the aromas revealed by the vibrant nose. Then throws in tropical and mineral notes to ride out the finish with you.
Perfect with charcuterie, seared tuna, bouillabaisse, and Thai noodle dishes.

Rouge (VDP Mediterranee): $14.12
50% merlot, 50% Grenache
100-250 feet elevation
6-8 months in concrete tanks
Unusual blend, lush southern Rhone. Packed with fresh blackberry and blueberry, prominent brown spices and a floral delicacy round out this deceptively complex wine.
Round and very fruit forward to be enjoyed alone or with all meals (Smokey and spicy foods like bbq).

Question 12

Domaine de la Tourade

Answer 12

Kindred Vines; Rhone, France

4th generation winery

Gigondas: $32.9
Wild and mineral nose. Black fruits with round and velvety tannins.
Serve with red meat in sauce

Vacqueyrs: $30.17
80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre
Wild strawberries and cherrris. Structured wine with a lot of freshness.

Question 13

Le Vignerons de Mont Ventoux

Answer 13

Kindred Vines; Rhone, France

VMV winery is a coop founded in 1924 by a group of small winegrowers who joined forces and pooled their means of production. Now has 27 employees and 120 winegrowers.

Cuvée des 3 Messes Basses Blanc: $14.22
50% clairette 50% Grenache Blanc
Sustainable
Brilliant pale yellow color with reflections of green. Complex fine floral bouquet with hints of white peach and citrus. Crisp mouth and supple light elegance.
Aperitif it with fish and seafood as well as white meat

Cuvée des 3 Messes Basses Rouge: $14.44
50% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 20% Carignan
Sustainable
Open bouquet combining fruity and peppery aromas. Balanced and pleasant with stewed fruits and hints of cinnamon and clove. Enjoyable and remarkable length.
Aged several months in cement vats
Drink alone or with grilled meats and deli meats and medium strong cheese.

Altitude 500 (special only): $—
75% Grenache, 25% Syrah
Sustainable
Complex nose of ripe red berries, stewed fruits with spicy and toasted aromas and a touch of licorice.
Aromas if ripe but restrained black fruit are accented by wet earth and baked herbs in this voluptuous red. Plump primary palate offers luscious black Cherry and berry flavors edged by ripe but penetrating tannins.

Viognier 500 (special only): $—
Citrus and passion fruit. Intense bouquet where fruit mixes with more moderate floral perfumes.
Aperitif, seafood, fish or white meat

Question 14

Domaine du Crampilh

Answer 14

JP Bourgeois; Southwest, France

Sustainable

Madiran Cuvee l’Originel: $21.39
100% tannat
20 + year old vines growing on clayish silica and chalky soils on a hill facing southwest.
850 feet
24 months in stainless steel tanks
Classic yet approachable madiran made out of 30+ year old tannat vines. Lol still a traditional inky, black color, this one has bright red and purple flex that give it a warming glow. Fragment, blueberries, and blackberries, dominate the intense nose with shades of dark and brown spices. On the palate, it is round and rich with soft, velvety tannins that more deeply Express, the flavors carried on the nose. The finishes long, fruity, with soft spices and chocolate notes.
Pair with heartier dishes, and cheese.

Question 15

Mas des Etoiles

Answer 15

JP Bourgeois; Southwest, France
Sustainable

Cahors Malbec Petit Etoiles: $16.79
25 year old vines growing on the second terrace on graves, silica, and clayish soils.
300 ft
18 months in stainless steel tanks, on its lees.
An intense nose of ripe, juicy red and dark fruits, and a touch of freshly dug earth, ecologically, conscious Arnaud Bladinières and his 30-year-old Malbec vines take Cahors into the present day while preserving it’s classic roots. The round, very fruity pallet has a solid structure, but very soft, well integrated tenants from a year and a half worth of aging. A great modern Malbec from Cahors that will pair well with all your meats in heartier dishes.

Question 16

Chateau de Mercues*

Answer 16

Kindred Vines; Southwest, France

Malbec de Cahors Le Vassal de Mercues: $21.18
Complex fruit, medium bodied with very elegant tannins. Concentration makes it long on the palate with peppery and spicy tones.
Chicken with saffron, pâté of duck foie gras with butter chocolate or fillet of veal with pipersde or grilled aubergines.

Malbec de Cahors (Grand Vin): $30.70
It’s all about the tannins baby.
Rich, intense, and subtle with a powerful combo of fruit and spice. Red fruit, spice, and vanilla. Very rich on the palate with hints of candies morello cherry and sweet spice underpinned by powerful tannin and elegant understated oak.
Pair with roast breast of duckling, red mulllet in a salt crust, chanterelle mushroom tempura, pasty-covered pot of pollack.

Question 17

Richard Böcking

Answer 17

Kindred Vines; Mosel (Germany)

Pinot Blanc: $20.11
Beautiful Pinot Blanc color, reflects the mineral soil of Mosel. Balance of acidity and fruit that opens quickly. Roundness in the mouth offers citrus and white flower.

Riesling: $19.57
Fruity, fresh, delicious. Mineral, citrus, peach. Lychee, slate. Petrol when first open
Off dry 16-18

Devon Riesling: $24.50
Dry, crisp, clean and delicate with an animating acuity. Fine mineralityvwith hints of mellow fruit tones and floral notes. Great wine to accompany hearty meals.
Sustainably farmed on steep slopes high above the Mosel river.

Question 18

San Valentino Bruscus*

Answer 18

Conexport; Emilia-Romagna, Italy; NEW

San Valentino Red: $21.71

Question 19

Cantina Di Carpi

Answer 19

Conexport; Emilia-Romagna, Italy; NEW

Notte Bianca: $13.48
GRAPE: 85% Pignoletto – 10% Trebbiano – 5% Lambrusco Bianco
CITY: Carpi
SOIL: Clay and limestone, medium skeleton
COLOR: Straw yellow with green highlights
PERLAGE: intense, with thin elegant bubbles
NOSE: Fruity and floral with a pleasant yeasty perfume.
TASTE: Dry, medium bodied, with great acidity, and a long finish.
Sunday funday. Party.

Notte Bianca means White Night and represents one of the most popular night events during summer in Italy. The first Notte Bianca is dated 1833 in Lanciano Abruzzo region, and since then, on the night between September 13th and 14th the city of Lanciano does not go to sleep, and all over in the city art and cultural events are performed for the pleasure of the people. In 2003 on the night between September 23rd and 24th, the city of Rome established its own Notte Bianca which immediately became famous because it coincided with the biggest black-out Europe ever experienced!!!

Notte Rose: $13.48
GRAPE: 70% Salamino – 30% Sorbara (indigenous grapes of Emilia-Romagna Region)
CITY: Carpi
SOIL: Clay and limestone, medium skeleton
COLOR: Light pink color, tending to rose petals
PERLAGE: intense, with thin and persistent bubbles
NOSE: fruity and floral with a pleasant yeasty perfume
TASTE: dry, medium bodied, with great acidity, and a long finish
We called this wine NotteRosa because it is a rosé brut made with the unique Salamino and Sorbara grapes and it is an homage to this beautiful initiative that wants to promote friendship, culture and interaction between people of all ages.

Question 20

Sassi *

Answer 20

Conexport; Friuli, Italy; kegs!

Pinot Grigio delle Venezie: $11.55

GRAPE: 100% Pinot Grigio
CITY: Pocenia
SOIL: Clay – Iron – limestone
COLOR: Straw-yellow with greenish highlights
NOSE: The wine is rich and flavorful; it displays an apple bouquet with reminiscent of fresh flowers
TASTE: This wine is dry, full and harmonious, keeps a good acidity with a great fruitiness

Sassi Pinot Grigio is more complex at the nose then most of the Pinot Grigio in the market, thus it entertains with an ample bouquet and intriguing aromas. At the same time it keeps a good acidity level that does not overwhelm the palate but makes it very refreshing and very approachable.
A wine to drink and relax….perfect companion to appetizer, light pasta dishes, poultry and seafood of any kind. Best served chilled, 50° F.

Question 21

Vallerosa Bonci*

Answer 21

Conexport; Marche, Italy

Verdicchio dei Castelli Jesi Manciano: $18.40
GRAPE: 100% Verdicchio (only grown in marche)
CITY: Cupramontana
COLOR: Straw-yellow with greenish highlights
NOSE: Intense and delicate it is tightly focused with citrus and lemon aromas; it also keeps white flowers and green apples to mind
TASTE: The wine is clean and well balanced, it is dry, fresh and slightly fruity.

Thanks to the location the Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi gets many influences from the sea and develops a characteristic mineral taste. The economy of Marche Region was always based on the fishing so this wine became the perfect match for seafood. Excellent with shellfish as scallops, mussels, clamps, crabs and lobster.

No oak aging nor malolactic.

Verdicchio Spumante “Metodo Classico Millesimato” NV: $41.94

Verdicchio Manciano Brut NV: $21.61

Question 22

Costa Di Bussia

Answer 22

Kindred Vines; Piedmont, Italy

Barbera D’Alba: $17.76
Deep ruby color, maraschino cherries, wild berry jam and spiciness with a long finish.
Aged for 30 months, 3,000 liters in Oak barrels to develop its bouquet.
Pair with roasted meats, grilled meats, mature cheeses

Barolo Piedmont: $45.15
Classic, inviting, spicy with soft ruby color. Excellent harmony of flavor and tannins, silky and persistent. The rose notes make it unmistakeable. Medium bodied elegant plate shows sour Cherry, clove, white pepper alongside bright acidity and youthful lithe tannins.
Aged 26 months in oak.

Barolo Luigi Arnulfo (special order): $57.35
Tobacco, earth and prune turn to flowers, and freshly sliced fruit with mint undertones.
Full bodied, long with perfectly intigrated tannins and a fine, silky texture.
Lamb, beef, veal, mature, hard cheeses and mushrooms.

Barolo Riserva Piedmont (special order): $68.15
Complex blend of spice and dried flowers. Firm palsy with sour Cherry, licorice and a hint of clove alongside assertive tannins.

Langhe Nebbiolo Arcapla: $24.92
Vanilla and spice with hints of black currant. Sweet, velvety tannins. The 3 “C’s” of character: Currant, coffee and (dark) chocolate character. Medium to full bodied with fine tannins and a long finish.

Dolcetto D’Alba: $20.00
Leans purple, fresh and fragrant with cherry, blueberry and berry notes. full bodied and velvety with a slightly bitter aftertaste that invites another sip.

Question 23

Ormanni

Answer 23

Kindred Vines; Tuscany, Italy

Chianti Classico: $24.82
100% Sangiovese
Environmentally friendly, certified organic
A diabolical year weather-wise created a very concentrated Chianti compared to other years. Red berries, some citrus, and raspberry cheesecake. Medium body with firm yet juicy tannins and a structured spicy finish. Some star since and tobacco alongside polished tannins.
Fermented in stainless steel and concrete tanks. 12 months in Slavonian Oak casks and French oak barrels. Refined 12 months in concrete tanks.

Question 24

Morellino di Scansano

Or

Vignaioli del Morellino*

Answer 24

Kindred Vines; Tuscany, Italy

Sangiovese Toscano Governo: $21.71
Morellino di Scansano DOCG Roggiano: $19.36

Question 25

Marchesi Biscardo

Answer 25

Conexport; Veneto, Italy

Poetically in Verona (the romantic city of Romeo and Juliette) we say that Valpolicella is the valley that “flies”, because every grape variety carries the name of a bird!

Corvina: $16.58
GRAPE: 100% Corvina
CITY: Negrar
SOIL: Clay, limestone with a layer of stones under the first 3 feet
COLOR: Deep ruby-red with violet highlights
NOSE: Refined, elegant and complex, it reveals all the characteristic perfumes of a Valpolicella with lots of cherries, plums and elegant spices
TASTE: Round and structured on the palate it surprises with very silky tannins and a long persistent finish.
The great but integrated acidity makes this wine food friendly yet easy to drink

Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso: $27.81
GRAPE: 60-70% Corvina, 20-30% Rondinella, 5-10% Molinara
CITY: Negrar
SOIL: Clay, limestone with a layer of stones under the first 3 feet
COLOR: Deep ruby-red with violet highlights
NOSE: Elegant and complex, it shows ripe berry and flowers
TASTE: Full-bodied and soft, with lovely velvety tannins and a long finish

SUPERIORE: for a Valpolicella means minimum 12,5% alcoholic content and 14 months of aging.
RIPASSO: it is a very old and traditional process used to give to the Valpolicella wine richness and body. After the Valpolicella is fermented in the usual way, it is placed in barrels containing the skins of the AMARONE, a concentrated wine made using semi-dried grapes. This process, at Marchesi Biscardo last from 2 to 3 weeks, adds color, tannins, and complex flavors.
The Meaning of the word RIPASSO in fact means RE-PASS or PASSED TWICE, just because the wine passes over the skins and the leases of the bigger and more complex brother called AMARONE. The legend says that this technique has been developed in the middle age by the poor farmers that could not afford to buy the big and expensive Amarone Wine, therefore they were stealing the skins of the Amarone from the land owners to mix them with their little and lousy wines and obtain something close to what the aristocracy was drinking !!!
A perfect complement to highly seasoned first courses as well as roasted meat or steak.

Amarone della Valpolicella Classico: $58.74
GRAPE: 60-70% Corvina, 20-30% Rondinella, 5-10% Molinara
CITY: Negrar
SOIL: Clay, limestone with a layer of stones under the first 3 feet
COLOR: Deep ruby-red with bright highlights
NOSE: Intense, elegant, very typical with a complex aroma of black currant, raisins and prunes. It reviles chocolate, caramel and tobacco mixed with mint……“cigar box flavor”!
TASTE: Velvet, warm and full on the palate with a lingering excellent finish and soft tannins
Amarone is strictly related to “RECIOTO della Valpolicella”.
Both wines are produced in the same area and they go through the same wine making process that takes the name of “APPASSIMENTO”. The grapes are picked from the top of the vine tree and in the past wine makers were using only the wings of the clusters that are called “recia” in Verona dialect. The grapes are dried for three/four months on straw mats, after this period the juice is very concentrated, and the grapes are ready to be pressed. The juice ferments on the skins very slowly for about 40 days with frequent pump over to extract flavors and color. If the wine is partially fermented we obtain the dessert version called “RECIOTO”, otherwise the fully fermented version is absolutely dry and takes the name of “AMARONE”. After fermentation the wine is sharpened for 3-4 years in Slovenian oak barrels, then we allow the wine to rest in the bottle for another year before we release it. Excellent with roasted meat, game, steaks and aged cheeses it changes the dinner into a special occasion. Great also after dinner as wine for meditation with a good cigar!

https://youtu.be/VuzvRqYCjck

Question 26

Sentio

Answer 26

Kindred Vines; Veneto, Italy

Prosecco Brut NV: $17.76
98% Glera, 2% Perera
Environmentally friendly and sustainable
Pale straw color, citrus, pear, and a hint of wisteria. Medium to full bodied. Clean, fruit-driven and crips with a long finish.

Prosecco DOC Extra Dry 200 ml: $9.84
98% Glera, 2% Perera
Environmentally friendly, sustainable
Fresh and floral with a pleasant acidity on the finish. Acacia flowers, pears, apple.

Prosecco Brut Superiore DOCG NV (Special Order) : $20.97
Soft, silky, starts out citrus and opens up to stone fruit (pears, plums, melons) and wisteria and orange blossoms.
Shellfish, raw tuna, fish tartar
“Genuine people with refined, charming personalities.”

Spumante Rose Extra Dry ‘Rosa Aurea’ NV: 16.80
95% Glera, 5% rabosao
Environmentally friendly and sustainable
Peach or rose blossom with intense aromas. Fruity with complex floral notes and ripe passion fruit. Full bodied.
Air with an aperitif, Seafood salad, fried vegetables

Question 27

Babich

Answer 27

Babich; Marlborough, New Zealand
Sustainable

Sauvignon Blanc (Black Label): $17.22
Exclusive to restaurants and bars.
Pungent with blackcurrant and boxwood. Lime, gooseberry, and smoky herbals.
Fleshy and fruit-sweet entry with heavy passion fruit and a little black currant. Underling this we have complex herbal and citrus notes. Mineral and spice on the finish. Nice breath and length.
Seafood.

Chardonnay (Hawke’s Bay): $24.28
Unoaked giving the wine stunning fruit characteristics, delivering a soft creamy plate with melon and peach flavors, and a fresh, clean finish.
Peach skin and apple with lemon curd and green apricot. Fresh and spicy. Flavors weighted to the front but a long tail. Lively.

Pinot Noir (Black Label): $23.11
Dark cherry, Cedar, and spice aromas with fresh herbs and nutmeg. Expensive pallet with great while I am in medium weight. Pretty and sweet cherry notes with raspberry and juicy acidity. Savory notes of leather in earth. Soft and find tannin add textual interest. Warm with a hint of resin on the finish.
I deal with a stirfry of cubed, lamb, and eggplant, also makes a good partner for steak and mushroom pie.
Egg white fining.

Question 28

Quinta da Devsa

Answer 28

Red Wolf Imports; Douro, Portugal

Red Douro: $15.72
45% touriga franca
20% touriga nacional
20% tints Roriz
15% tinta barroca
Grown in schist soils, careful selection of best grapes with hand harvesting.
Fermented in stainless steel with maceration and scheduled pumping over the skins for 5-7 days.
Medium bodied red with flavors of red and black currant, dried blackberry with just a hint of liquor ice and tobacco.
Cured meats, sharp cheeses, grilled beef or lamb meatballs.

White Douro: $15.72
North facing for temps cool enough to produce still white wines.
Grapes undergo cold settling at 15 degrees for 48 hours to clarify the must and enhance the aromatic expressions of the grape varietal.
Daily bâtonnage during 6-10 days of fermentation.
Aromas of tropical fruit, white flour, and lime. The pallet is fresh and fruit forward, medium bodied with a balanced refreshing acidity and persistent finish.
Pair with oysters, grilled sardines, sushi, grilled fish, grill, bratwurst, veggies, or fish tacos, traditional Portuguese, soup, Caldo Verde with smoked sausage

10 yr Tawny Red Port (750ml): $36.37
Aged in wooden casks
Lovely red fruit, dried cherries, and Smokey vanilla.
Pecan pie, apple pie, German chocolate cake

10 yr Tawny White Port (500ml): $31.45
Rich, complex flavors of honey, dried apricot, buttered toffee, tropical fruit and a creamy finish.
Cheese, charcuterie, lightly salted almonds, apple or pumpkin pie.

Question 29

Santiago*

Answer 29

P.R. Grisley; Vinho Verde, Portugal

Alvarinho Vinho Verde Blend (Alvarinho / Loureiro): $17.54
Mineral and flinty notes on the nose with pear and crisp citrus aromas. Bold and broad flavors of juicy apple, pear, and grapefruit pith, with a wonderfully fresh finish with saline notes.
Salads, seafood, fat fish, Italian pasta, white meat, poultry, oriental cuisine.

Alvarinho Reserve: $25.03

Rose: $17.97
Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz and Alvarinho
It’s bright with a salmon color. The aroma is delicate, with notes of wild fruit, lemon zest and a slight floral hint. Balanced, dry and persistent body. Fresh and long with mineral notes, white fruit and final salinity.
The balance and freshness of this wine make it the ideal pairing for starters, salads, fish, seafood, white meat and Asian cuisine. It should be served at a temperature between 10ºC and 12ºC.

Espumante Alvarinho: $29.74

Question 30

Abduction

Answer 30

JP Bourgeois; Slovenia

Natural farming
300 ft elevation, most 5 months in stainless steel tanks

Piquette 8% ABV: $17.11
Pinot Blanc
Outer space wine

Piquette 8% ABV Rose: $17.11
Žametna Črnina
Aliens/ships on its label

Rose 1 Liter: $16.15
Žametna Črnina
5 months stainless steel tanks
Darker pink bursting with notes of ripe wild berries, wild strawberries, and a hint of violet. Round, fruity, refreshing acidity after the mid-palate that Carrie’s the red fruit aromas to a long and smooth finish.
Hot day, alone or with light fare.

White 1 Liter: $17.86
Pinot Blanc, yellow muscat blend
5 months in stainless steel tanks
White flowers, citrus, white peach and lychee. Wine is crisp and vibrant. Long finish with a nice acidity denoting lots of white fruit and another hint of lychee notes.
Aperitif, seafood, shellfish.

Orange (OOS Until next vintage): $17.43
Pinot Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Riesling
5 months in stainless steel tanks
Lighter amber color, golden apple, quince, sweet brown spice and hints of honey. Good minerality.

Question 31

Gönc*

Answer 31

JP Bourgeois; Starjerska, Slovenia
4th generation, Family tradition going back to 1936, first cellar and vineyard in Dobrovnik, after ww2, moved to Ptuj and worked in the Ptujska Klet or Ptuj wine cellar. Cellar cleaner worked his way uk to head winemaker and CEO of the oldest winery in Slovenia now known as Pullus. Peter and his father started Gönc again.
Organic farming, little to no sulfites at bottling. Despite that, the wines are incredibly stable making for great BTG.
Gönc is actually a name for a barrel they produce in Hungary, from where the Gönc family hails, that’s 136 liters. 136 dots on each bottle of wine are in tribute to the family’s long history in the areas wine community.

Gamay: $26.32
Sandy to rich in marl with vines between 20-55 years old. Low yield, all pruned to a single guyot.
820-1300 ft.
Organic and natural farming
15 months in French oak barrels.
Ruby hue teems with bright cherry, raspberries, and dark spices on the nose. Earthy, slight lingering smokey notes, and a little saline minerality.

Pavel (Kerner): $18.08

Pinot Noir: $26.85
Dark crimson aromas if confit cherry, red berries, and soft dark spices. Vivacious texture, matched by equally ebullient red fruits, dried rose petal, savory exotic spices and rainy forest floor. Fine grained tannins shore up this wines deeper flavors while pitch-perfect acidity illuminates the more delicate flavors as it gently Carrie’s them into a lingering, notably lifted finish.
Grilled pork steaks, mushroom heavy dishes, and pan fried trout dishes.

Yellow Muscat Dry: $18.08
Hand picked grapes early in the morning with morning mist, destemmed grapes mixed with 25% whole clusters for skin contact ferment, punch downs, are done with bare hands every six hours for 42 days. After 42 days, we gently squeeze them and put them in used French oak for the next 15 months. The war pigs were kept on fine lees the whole time until bottling.

Canvas Pet Nat Brut (sparkling): $20.75

Winery 6 Blaufränkisch: $26.32
15 months in 70% French oak 30% Hungarian oak
Very hard conditions = small yield with intensely flavored juice from the berries.
Peter froze the wine outside and siphoned off the partially thawed juice, giving the finished wine a nose and texture unlike any Blaufränkisch. Spicy, slightly rugged tannins support ripe blueberries and sultry blackberries with a hint of middle eastern spices and a distinct blue total prettiness.
Ideal with pizza (esp Detroit and Chicago style), braised beef dishes, mild Indian curries, butter poached salmon and aged cheeses. Also great on its own.

Question 32

Babylonstoren*

Answer 32

Red Wolf Imports; Paarl, South Africa;

Question 33

Kaapzicht

Answer 33

Red Wolf Imports; Stellenbosch, South Africa
“Cape View” over Cape Town and table mountain.

Estate Chenin Blanc: $16.36
Ripe quince, pineapple and stone fruit with unique savory undertones on the nose. Palate is lightly textured with a hint of sweetness and balancing crunchy acid results in a brisk finish.
Roasted turkey, sweet and sour pork, smoked salmon.

Kaleidoscope Red Blend: $14.76
29% pinotage
25% merit
23% Cabernet Sauvignon
17% Shiraz
6% Malbec
French oak stages used in tanks to add complexity.
Integrated flavors of black and red berries, tea leaves in space invite a sip of this easy, drinking blend. The gentle structure, with soft tannins, supporting a core of sweet berry fruit, friendly drink, ability, medium bodied with a well rounded savory finished. Pair with tapestries, a roasted red peppers smoke cheeses.

Steytler Pentagon Flagship Bordeaux Blend: $71.68
50% Cabernet Sauvignon
30% Cabernet franc
10% merlot
5% petit Verdot
5% Malbec
Small French oak barrels for 28 months.
A muscular Bordeaux, style blender, exudes, power, and concentration, tied up in a structure of fine-grained, tannin and bright acidity that not only promises extensive evolution, but also entices with every visit to the glass. Brooding, dark fruit tightly packed in an intricate frame are delivered with great purity and finesse
Slow roasted lamb and Rosemary.
Age for 15 years!

‘The 1947’ Chenin Blanc: $69.12
Second oldest Chenin block in the country. Only 1 hectar of the original 6 remains.
Natural fermentation in French and Hungarian oak barrels. 1 year in different barres ranging from new to second fill.
The aromatics are super complex and spicy with nuances of wet straw, white citrus, peaches, Fynbos and pineapple Confit. There is such focused depth, full bodied plump texture and complexity with flavors of tangerine, lychee, concentrate and butterscotch
southeast Asian cuisine, pork chops, triple creme brie cheese, shellfish, or a spicy curry can age up to 25 years.

Rooiland Pinotage Stellenbosch 2020: $26.53
19 year old bush vines planted in weathered granite
85% pinotage
15% Cabernet Sauvignon
Wild fruit, prune and berry with toasted cedar, vanilla, and gun smoke on the nose. Palate starts out racy with bright red fruit and firm tannins, developing further complexity of sour Cherry, cola, green olives and smoke. A full bodied dry red wine.
Cured meats, game or bbq

Skuinsberg Cinsaut Stellenbosch 2021: $27.17
Planted on the steepest slope in Kaapzicht - Skuinsberg = Steep hills and many lost tractors.
Lovely dance, earthy, savory, sun-dried, strawberry, and bramble berry fruit knows. Full and flashy, this is Shelly, bright and mouthwatering, displaying a crunchy edge, Celine acidity in a fine, sweet, macerated read current finish. Delicious.
Escargot, grilled chicken, or veggies, roasted pork, smoked seafood, tie, or Indian cuisine.

Question 34

Ken Forrester Vineyards

Answer 34

Ken Forrester Vineyards; Stellenbosch, South Africa

Chardonnay Petit: $15.08
Aromatic layers of white peach and tropical fruit infused with kiwi. Creamy texture on the palate complemented by a steely minerality.

Rose Petit: $15.08
68% Grenache, 32% Viognier
Fresh picked strawberries, rose petals, and cherry. Follows through on the palate with delicious rope raspberries and a delicate finish.
Serve with all light summertime meals. Should last approx half an hour with the cap off and then reach for the next bottle!

Pinotage Petit: $15.08
Cheerful pinotage reflects modern fruit driven wine style. Juicy and accessible with a soft palate and delicious fruit concentration.

Cabernet Sauvignon Petit: $15.08
Youthful wine showing fresh ripe mulberries and plums with a spicy undertone. Soft, rich and fruit driven wine.

Chenin Blanc Old Vine Reserve: $18.93
Harmonious balance between fruit and delicate oak/vanilla, combining to form complex, soft flavors with sufficient body to enhance even spicy and full flavored meals. (OOS on site)

Renegade: $26.43
Shiraz, Grenache, Mourvèdre
One of the very first Rhône style blends in South Africa. Old world style with new world fruit.

The FMC: $70.51
Chenin Blanc
A, careful selection of up to 10 harvests through the same Vineyard, choosing the bunches at their peak, naturally fermented in French oak about 50% new and age for a year and barrel on the lees.
Rich, layered with dried apricot, vanilla d honey.
Seafood/shellfish, exotic eastern spiced foods.

Sparklehorse: $29.42
Sparkling Chenin Blanc
Aged 18 months on lees to develop a creaminess and delicate mousse while maintaining a bright, fresh apple, pear, and quince aromas.
Ideal celebration bubbly pairs with creamy chicken and fish dishes.

The Gypsy: $70.51
65% granache, 35% syrah
Low yields with a little over 1500 bottles. Almost 3 years of barrel aging before making up the final blend, only to bottle and allow an additional 2 years age. Very concentrated blend with layers of deep fruit.
Somewhat “wild” a little brambly with hints of nutmeg, cinnamon, dark spices with vanilla and a distinct concentrated red-fruit focus.

Question 35

Keermont*

Answer 35

Kyesla et Fils; Stellenbosch, South Africa

White Blend Terrasses: $30.06
Backbone is Chenin Blanc from 48-year-old un-irrigated vineyard.
39% Chenin Blanc; Chardonnay, Sauvy B and Viognier.
French oak + 12 months maturing on the lees (subtle oak with a more creamy, bread like texture) bottled without filtration.
Citrus with hazelnut, lemongrass, and butterscotch undertones. Earthy finish.

Cabernet Sauvignon Blanc Western Cape: $52.96 (can’t find on Kysela)

Question 36

Villiera

Answer 36

Red Wolf Imports; Stellenbosch, South Africa

Environmentally friendly and preservation use ducks, not insecticides.
Natural resource consumption as well (wildlife preserve, solar facility, recycling, etc.)

Methode Cap Classique Tradition Brut NV: $23.75
70% Chardonnay
30% Pinot noir
Racy zestiness that is a result of crisp acidity and delicate fruit.
Asparagus, avo, sushi, Chinese, Thai, smoked or grilled fish, omelet and chicken satay

Down to Earth White: $15.08
63% Sauvignon Blanc
32% Sémillon
Essentially dry with a touch of sweetness on the palate with a hint of passion fruit and gooseberries from the savvy on Blanc. The Semillon contributes, the more herbaceous, grassy character, as well as complexity to the palate. It also contributes to the balance, and makes you reach for another glass.
Vegan and vegetarian dishes, delicate fish, so shellfish, anything with basil, lime, avocado, or garlic. Even holds up to dishes with a little bit of spice.

Down to Earth Red: $15.08
65% touriga nacional
35% Shiraz
An explosion of spice and dark berry flavors with soft tenants and a smooth finish. The hint of oak it was all that was needed to complete the picture of a modern wine that illustrates the art of blending. Down to earth concept is to create a one that can be enjoyed by all. The name implies that it Hass to be consistent, reliable, and affordable.
Chili lentil stew or dark chocolate.

Jasmine: $14.22
30% moscato
33% Gewurztraminer
37% Riesling
Grapes picked slightly earlier than usual to retain freshness and ensure a lighter style.
Floral, slightly spicy, white wine, which is fresh, light and slightly sweet, but complex enough to drink with food.
Fusion in spicier dishes think Cape Malay curry.

Chenin Blanc: 14.22
Harvested mid season from only 3 vineyard blocks. 40% of which are old bush vines. A small portion were picked earlier to achieve a balanced acidity.
Intense, tropical fruit, citrus, fruit, and honey on the nose. With a hint of wood spice the palate is rich in full body, well balanced, with a long finish
trout, smoked salmon pork with apples, turkey foods with a sweet-and-sour component like southeast Asian cuisine.

Question 37

Pares Balta*

Answer 37

Pares Balta; Penedes, Spain

Blanc de Pacs: $18.93
Ros de Pacs: $18.93
Rose
Granache, syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon
Elegant nose, with notes of wild strawberries, hints of ripe banana and subtle notes of cream.
Sweet sensation with good acidity that makes it tasty and long. Very perfumed on the palate, where we find again the aromas of red fruit and creamy memories.
Pair it with all kinds of salads, rice dishes, pastas and pizzas. Ideal for drinking by the glass. Also pairs well with salty olives, fresh tomatoes and herbs (simple pasta salad)

Mas Petit: $18.93
Cava Brut NV: $19.57
Cava Pink NV: $21.29
Region: Catalunya
Appelation: DO Cava
Vintage: NV
Colour: Rosé
Grape Variety: Garnatxa, Parellada, Macabeo
Alcohol: 11.5%
Bottle Size: 75cl
Closure: Natural cork
Style: Rich, red berry fruit
Vegan: Yes
Organic: Yes (certified)
Biodynamic: Yes (certified)
Drink With: Appetizers, deserts, cheese. Perfect cava by the glass.

Cava Brut Blanca Cusine: $45.79
Cava Brut Rose Cusine (very limited): $55.31
ELECTIO: $55.21
Calcari: $21.39
Amphora: $35.73
Indigena Blanco: $24.28
Indigena Rosado: $24.28
Indigena Red: $24.28
Hisenda Miret: $50.82
Mas Irene: $33.38
Mas Elena: $25.46
Marta de Balta: $93.40

Question 38

Gratavinum*

Answer 38

? Pares balta? Priorat, Spain penedes spain

2TTR: $43.44
GV5: $83.99

Question 39

Bodegas de Palacio de Fefinanes

Answer 39

Kysela et Fils; Rias Baixas, Spain

Albarino: $34.66
Very pure expression of the grape.
Fresh fruit aromas - peach & pear w/ notes of lemon and green apple.
Stainless steel, bottled in its first year.
Clam, mussels, lobster, fish, oysters Asian

Question 40

Burgo Viejo

Answer 40

Kyesla et Fils; Rioja, Spain

Blanco: $16.69
Organic
60% Viura, 40% Tempranillo Blanco
Elegant, medium bodied. Nectarine and white flowed. Slightly chewy finish.
No Malolactic fermentation. Aged 3 months on lees with frequent stirring.
Seafood, pasta, rice, smooth cheeses

Garnacha Old Vine (Baja): $16.58
Organically grown grapes.
Stainless steel and concrete tanks
Intensely fruity, full bodied with soft velvety tannins. Red Wild berries w/ subtle spice.
Red meat, pasta, chocolate

Graciano (Baja): $14.44
Organic grapes grown on an old quarry, so very stony soil if you will.
“Harmony with the environment” from the producer
Structured and fruity with aromas of blackberry and subtle spice. Full bodied.

Rioja Reserva: $20.00
Mostly Tempranillo with 10% graciano and 5% mazuelo
Fermented in stainless steel aged for 18 months in 50/50 American and French oak barrels
Berry, mushroom, and fresh herb aromas. Full bodied with round juicy tannins and plenty of fruit.
Red meat and game.

Question 41

Eberle*

Answer 41

Eberle Vineyards; Paso Robles (Row Bulls) CA

Chardonnay: $27.49

Viognier Mill Road: $28.46

Vineyard Select Cabernet Sauvignon: $27.49
Black currant, dark, chocolate, cherry, plum, vanilla, green peppercorn and cedar. Medium bodied cab with juicy acidity and approachable tannins.
Hanger steak with a champagne vinaigrette me says shiitake soup a filet mignon with balsamic glaze for a blue cheeseburger.

Syrah: $28.78

Zinfandel Steinbeck/Wine Bush Vineyards: $29.10

Estate Cabernet Sauvignon: $42.58
22 months in 100% French oak barrels 30%, new 30% second fill in the rest neutral. Well balanced elegant and represents Paso cab to its finest aromas impala coding flavors of black cherry Cassis tobacco leaf in Cocoa, supported by from tannins in juicy acidity with a long drive finish.

Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve: $96.29
Since Gary started his label in 1979, only 19 reserve a state cover news have been declared. Aged 22 months and 100% Alain Fouquet French oak barrels and 50% new. Deep ruby color with rich flavors of Cassis, black, currants, leather, anise, and a bit of chocolate peppermint on the nose. Grippy, tannins, tight, acidity, and balance, fruit core. A robust Cabernet, exhibiting an old world elegance that is truly enhance, when paired with hearty dishes, layered with flavors and texture. This one begs for a juicy ribeye prime rib, or grilled butterflied leg of lamb for a short rib and red wine sauce.

Question 42

Lake Sonoma

Answer 42

Lake Sonoma / Great Western; Sonoma CA

Chardonnay: $18.93
Cabernet — Alexander Valley: $23.75

Question 43

Sei Querce

Answer 43

Lake Sonoma / Great Western; Sonoma CA;

Ranch House: $72.86
Six Oaks: $72.86

Question 44

Heron

Answer 44

Heron Vineyards; Mindocino, CA;

Cabernet Sauvignon: $17.54
Chardonnay : $17.54
Pinot Noir : $17.54
Sauvignon Blanc : $17.54

Question 45

Freak of Nature

Answer 45

JP Bourgeois
Spain
Freak of nature rose Tempranillo

Question 46

Bellula

Answer 46

J.p. Bourgeois; Languedoc
Sustainable

Rose: $13.82
60% Grenache; 40% syrah
Means it can actually be a good BTG and open up
Water rich plain containing alluvia dating from the Quaternary Period
Full, refreshing wildflowers, wild red berries and tea olive mingle with the peach, kümmel on, and thyme flavors on the light bodied palate.
Pairs well with anything light, or spicy or shrimp with oregano, or nothing.

Chardonnay: $13.82
A blend of two terrior, clayish/limestone and clayish/chalk = great balance between mineralogy, acidity, fruit and complexity
Stainless steel with some lees aging
Intense nose of familiar citrus and exotic passion fruit and mango.
Vegetables and burrata

Pinot Noir: $13.15
A blend of two terrior, clayish/limestone and clayish/chalk = great balance between mineralogy, acidity, fruit and complexity
7 months stainless steel; 20% French oak barrels
Packed with red fruits and spices. Classic French Pinot noir

Question 47

Domaine de Châteaumar

Answer 47

J.P. Bourgeois
Cotes-du-Rhone
Sustainable

Cuvee Vincent Syrah: $18.18
100% syrah
Two parcels of 50+ year old syrah on the northern Chateauneuf-du-pape plateau. Stony, clayish-limestone soils.
Smoky aromas and meaty, savory flavors more associated with the legendary wines of Hermotage and Côte Route in northern Rhone, but with the generosity of tart Cherry, blackberry, blueberry and dark spices one expects from a more lush southern Rhone.
Rich and complex, elevates wood grilled ribeye, roast duck, braised lamb shanks, game, or any hearty dish to sublimity.

Côtes du Rhône Cuvee Bastian Grenache: $17.01
8-10 months in concrete tanks
Named after the winemakers son, from a single vineyard of 50+ year old vines in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Rich, fruity, and elegant with classic Châteaubeuf Grenache character, but with ripe and open-knot structure that makes its black Cherry, spice, graphite, and sweet earth accessible now.
Duck breast with honey and raspberry vinegar, or baked duck legs with potatoes. Roasted chicken and smoke meats, Pork, and lamb.

Chateauneuf-du-Pape Rouge Secret de Nos Vignes: $40.12
70% Grenache 30% Mourvèdre
20-60 year old vines growing on red clay and chalky soils with “gallets roules“ vineyards are south of CDP.
8 months in French oak, 4 months in concrete tanks
More traditional CDP features pronounced fruit and spice aromas with hints of smoke, anise, and earth. The palate is rich with dark berry, roasted plum, hints of wild herbs, and dark chocolate. The finish is strong with resurgent herbs, plum, and anise, incorporating old leather, dried violets, and dry cured olives as it lingers. Now or cellar up to 8.
Lamb, pork, poultry

Question 48

Bodegas Latúe

Answer 48

J.P. Bourgeois; La Mancha Spain
Organic
2400 ft

Tempranillo: $12.51
6 months stainless steel
Fresh, soft juicy wine. It’s luminous bing cherry color telegraphs the same fruit that dominates the clean and radiant nose with forest fruit and tropical aromas lending to additional complexity. Despite its gulpable (heavy) body and textures, there’s solid structure here and a very long finish.
Serve with pizza, burgers, or any every day meal.

Tempranillo Rosado: $12.30
4 months stainless steel
Strawberry, peach, tart Cherry, and hibiscus. Palates nearly red wine weight and concentration detracts not a whif from its refreshing crush of fleshy red fruits or perky, spicy long finish.
By itself of with all sorts of light fare like salads and gazpacho.

Question 49

Florian Mathieu

Answer 49

JP Bourgeois; Languedoc, France

La Nature Au Dessus: $19.36
Orange wine
40% granache Blanc; 30% roussanne; 30% marsanne
2 weeks of skin contact, 4 months in stainless steel tanks
Notes of orange blossom with pear and apple notes on the palate, a hint of peach and lychees. Subtle green tea like tannin structure.
Pair with meat or fish with sauces. Nice acidity balances well with salty notes or fresh cheeses.

Question 50

Domaine Haut Bridau

Answer 50

Kindred Vines; Languedoc

Picpoul de Pinet: $16.25
Only 1268 hectares means limited production/rare wine
Fruity and floral nose with hawthron and lime tree fragrances.
Aperitif, with paella, or other seafoods

Question 51

Guado Al Melo

Answer 51

Conexport; Tuscany
“Ford at the apple tree”
Vinified without correctives or additives,

Bacco in Toscana: $18.61
Sangiovese and Syrah
Black fruit, black cherry, and plum brightened up by a pleasant hint of spices.
Rich and balanced tannins with a good freshness
refined on the lees for 9 months in oak barrels (only 10% new) and in bottle.
Pair with roast or grilled meats, game, cold cuts, pasta with spicy or with tomato sauces, pizza. Tasty or medium seasoning cheeses.

Antillo Bolgheri Rosso: $25.03
50% Sangiovese, Cab sauv e Petit Verdot
Refined on the lees for 9 months in oak barrels (only 10% new)
Oldest tradition of the territory. The Sangiovese variety, with other local varieties is documented in their vineyards at least since the 19th venture y it almost completely disappeared in Bolgheri, but the preservation of our oldest roots is very important to us.
Antilles means “sunny place”
On the label, there is a drawing of vine, shoots, with leaves, and bunches of grapes, that come from Etruscan amphora. The Etruscans were the first civilization of our territory in the first winegrowers.
Wild berries, especially blackberry and raspberry, and a light and pleasant spicy hint. Good structure and persistence, crispy and lively it revels rich and balanced tannins.
Pair with roast or grilled stew meats, game or cold cuts, pasta with spicy or tomato sauces, pizza tasty or medium seasoning cheeses. Couscous with meat, beef stew, rabbit stew, lamb cutlets, mixed grilled meat and intense vegetarian dishes.

Rute Bolgheri Rosso: $31.24
Cabernet Sauvignon (80%), merlot
Refined on the lees for 12 months in oak barrels (only 10% new) and at least 6 months in bottle.
A wine if prestige and elegance, it recalls the sweet perfume of small fruits (such as bilberry and blackcurrant) and a pleasant smell of mild tobacco and spices. Intense and smooth with a good balance and a long finish.
Pair with cold cuts, Tuscan crostini, noodle recipe with meat or savory sauces, red meat, game, roasted or grilled poultry. pasta with wild boar ragout, gnoccchi with ragout and mushrooms, veals knuckle, grilled steak, coque-Au-vin

Bolgheri Bianco Doc “Criseo” (limited): $31.67
Vermentino, Fiano, Verdicchio, Manzoni (white Pinot X Rhenish Riesling), petit manseng
Clean, elegant to the nose with hints of white flowers, citrus, herbs, a bit of honey, sweet fruits
Full of body, fresh, good balanced with a long finish.
Best paired with intense flavor food, fish-based, white meat, vegetables, mushrooms, medium ripening cheeses.