Malvirà Wine from Roero DOCG this Friday (5/18) and Saturday (5/19)!

Malvirà began its production in the 1950's under the guidance of Giuseppe Damonte. Giuseppe was a visionary and understood in the '50's Roero had not maximized its vineyard and, in turn, grape-growing potential. Today the estate is run by Giuseppe's sons Massimo and Roberto Damonte, who inherited their father's passion for winemaking. The brothers have made it their mission to bring Arneis to the forefront of the Northern Italian wine scene. 

The Roero region is especially interesting as the land and soil here has a rich and varied history. The district of Roero is approximately 350 km and contains 23 comunes or townships. The name Roero comes from the Conti-Roero family who lived the area in the 14th century, however, the identity of the territory dates back before the year 1000. Even before the year 1000 AD, the entire "Roero area" was completely covered by sea. This history gives us the sandy and calcareous soil that is found throughout the area. In fact, it’s quite common to see fossils poking their heads out of the many vineyard sites.

Now for the wines! Descriptions below:

Arneis Spumante NV - 100% Arneis from the Malvira estate vineyards vinified as a delightful methode Charmat! Made in the Trinità vineyard in calcareous clay. Fermentation and maturation in stainless steel tanks for 6 months, and after the prize de mousse more 4 months on yeast. Alcohol sits at 12%, pale yellow color with a white peach, spring flowers, slightly herbaceous bouquet. The palate is savory, balanced and pleasantly vibrant with a dry finish and no residual sugar. Perfect as an aperitif, it pairs well with pasta, light summer salad, fish, seafood, fresh cheeses and chicken dishes.

Arneis 2016 - 100% Arneis from the Rensio, Trinita, Salietto, and Bordoni vineyards grown in calcareous clay and sandy soils at 300 meters above sea level. Fermentation takes place over 10 days in temperature-controlled tank, followed by 4-8 months in stainless steel before bottling. Elegant and aromatic, Malvira's Roero Arneis is a vibrant and complex white that shows notes of citrus, white flowers, melon, peaches and lemon with balanced acidity and a long finish. It is the perfect pairing with mild cheeses, light antipasti, fish and shellfish.

Roero Arneis Vigna Trinità 2015 - Grape Variety: 100% Arneis made from the Trinità vineyard. A calcareous clay with sandy parts, it is harvested in September. Then fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, then 90% is aged for 6 months in stainless steel tanks and 10% in French oak for 6 months. A bright straw yellow color with a floral, fruity, and mineral bouquet. On the palate it is fresh and fruity, with golden apples, citrus, and flint stone with the alcohol sitting at 12.5-13.5%. It pairs excellently with fresh fish, soups, pasta and fresh cheeses. 

Barbera d’Alba S. Michele 2014 - 100% Barbera This vineyard is located in the historic hills of Canale, and has a little church on top, dedicated to the patron saint, Michael. The soil is made of calcareous clay, and is especially good for cultivating Barbera. The vineyard is composed of 80 year old vines, and the exposition of the vineyard is south-facing while its altitude is 300 meters. The vineyard measures 1 hectare. Both of our Barbera d'Albas; our Superiore and San Michele come from this vineyard.

Roero Red 2015 - 100% Nebbiolo from 25-35 year old vines in the Trinita and Renesio vineyards planted at 300 meters above sea level. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks, followed by aging for 20 months in French oak (50% new, 50% used). Wine rests in bottle for an additional 12 months prior to release. Color: intense ruby redPerfume: violets, strawberries, raspberries, andblack currents Flavor profile: persistent with approachable tannins, intense fruit with hints of vanilla Alcohol: 13,5% Pairing:pasta, roasted and grilled meats, poultry and
medium aged cheeses

Birbet Brachetto NV - 100% Brachetto from the Trinita, Prarino & Saglietto vineyards situated at 300 meters above sea level. Fermentation in stainless steel for 36 hours followed by secondary fermentation in autoclave. Residual sugar sits at 100g/L and vines are planted on calcareous clay soils. Harvested in September, fermentation in stainless steel tanks followed by second fermentation in autoclave. This wine is a light reddish pink with strawberries, berries, and rose petals on the nose. Sweet strawberries fill your palate with a low alcohol of 4.5 - 5.5%. Pairing suggestion would be as a digestif with fruit desserts, panna cotta, strawberries and rhubarb. 

ACORN Wines from Russian River Valley!

Acorn Wines were founded in 1990 by Bill & Betsy Nachbaur in the Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California. A small producer, they make less than 3,000 cases a year! Their passion comes from growing and and co-fermenting field-blends from making wines that are food-friendly, and balanced made in the Old World-style. We are thrilled to showcase them for our tasting this weekend! Details for the four wines we are pouring this weekend can be found below:

2014 Acorn Alegría Vineyards Cabernet Franc:  93% Cab Franc co-fermented with small amounts of Malbec, Merlot & Petit Verdot to add extra dimension and complexity. Fermented with the same yeast used in Brunello (strain BM45) to increase the spiciness. Aromas of creamy vanilla with cranberry, cherry, violets, and cedar.  Double Gold Medal at the 2017 American Fine Wine Competition.  91 pts and Gold Medal at the 2017 Winemaker Challenge

2014 Acorn Alegría Vineyards Dolcetto: To add complexity, this Dolcetto is co-fermented with Freisa and Barbera, two other Piedmontese varieties usually inter-planted with the Dolcetto. (Barbera adds acid; Freisa adds strawberry notes.) dark plum, Bing cherry, and vanilla aromas fuse with notes of warm brown spices. Aged 18 months in French and American oak. 95 points & Platinum Medal - 2017 Winemaker Challenge International Wine Competition. Gold Medal - San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

2014 Acorn Alegría Vineyards Sangiovese:  In 1990, the Nachbauers were delighted to find old Sangiovese vines inter-planted with the Zinfandel. Since 1992, they have added 22 additional distinct selections of Sangiovese to their vineyard as well as two other traditional Tuscan blending grapes: Canaiolo (for color) and Mammolo (for aroma). This wine has alluring aromas of roasting coffee that mingle with hints of tart cherry, cranberry, and an earthy, mineral essence.

2014 Acorn Alegría Vineyards Heritage Vines Zinfandel:  The Heritage Zinfandel Vines, first planted in 1890, represent a unique mix of 18 inter-planted grape varieties. All vineyard work is done by hand, and each vine gets individualized attention. The nose showcases black raspberry threaded with white pepper and toasty oak. On the palate, spicy blackberry, plum, and boysenberry. Mocha and dark chocolate round out the wine, adding depth and elegance. Black cherry and a trace of cedar appear near the finish as the flavors expand and linger. 93 points - 2017 California State Fair Wine Competition. Listed as one of the best Zinfandels from the 2017 ZAP Grand Tasting by Pierre DuMont of the Piedmont Post.

In addition to the Acorn wines we are also pouring:

2016 Alycastre Rosé, Provence, FR: Made on the tiny island of Porquerolles off the Côte d'Azur of the French Riviera, this rosé is made in a dry style with light strawberry and floral aromas indicative of the superiority of Provençal rosés! Crisp, light and refreshing with a balanced miner It is a blend of equal parts Mourvèdre, Grenache and Tibouren. The town of Alycastre was named after a fabled dragon who was slain by a pilgrim and, said with his dying breath he wanted the town to be named after him.

2015 Fontaniels Pinot Noir, Languedoc-Rousillon, FR :  From the Languedoc-Roussillon region in Southern France, this Pinot Noir drinks much like it's made in the New World. Ripe red fruits and soft floral notes on the nose, followed by juicy cherries and raspberries, light baking spices and a delicate earthiness on the palate. Fantastic bottle and tremendous value!

SPRING IS HERE!! Join us Friday & Saturday (4/13-14) for our hand-picked warm weather selections!!

This Friday evening and Saturday afternoon we'll be celebrating the gorgeous weather spring has sprung upon us! In honor of the sun, we'll be pouring some fantastic bottles to enjoy all spring and summer long!! 

• Clara C Rosato Spumate, IT NV $19
  • A fantastic Italian sparkling rosé, 100% Pinot Noir brut bubbly has lovely light strawberry and floral notes with an extended bouquet and well structured finish. Pairs well with cold charcuterie, light fish and white roasted meat dishes. Perfect picnic accompaniment!!
• Kellerei-Cantina Andrian "finado" Pinot Bianco, IT 2016 $19
  • From the northern Italian region of Trentino Alto-Adige, this vineyard is located in the middle of the Adige Valley with a  Mediterranean climate. The vineyard benefits from an abundance of sunshine and well-aerated limestone soils. The pinot bianco grape shines in this region with light apple notes on the nose and palate, with an extended mineral finish. Will pair well with lighter cheeses, light fish and salads.
• Fernhook Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, NZ 2017 $18
  • Grown on elevated vineyards in Fairhall Valley in southern New Zealand, this wine is a go-to all summer. Lots of grapefruit, passionfruit and lemon zest with light, refreshing acidity. Texturally pleasing on the palate, definitely for white wine lovers everywhere!
• Campet Ste Marie Chardonnay, Pays d'Oc, FR 2015 $13
  • This vineyard site lies on a higher in elevation in the warm Languedoc region, benefits from a cool Mediterranean breeze and limestone soils making in a perfect site for Chardonnay. Cool-fermented and aged for 9 months in neutral French oak, white peach, apple and apricot arise on the nose and palate, then finishes with a light creaminess and well-balanced acidity. Great value!
• Domaine Deliance Bourgogne Pinot Noir, Côte Chalonnaise, FR 2014 $19
  • Gorgeous Old World Burgundy, starts with aromas of black cherry, baking spice, tobacco and cocoa. Smooth tannins, well-integrated earthiness and juicy blue and red fruits and light herbaceousness present on the palate. Will pair will across the board with medium cheeses, charcuteries, heavier white meat dishes. 
• Merf Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, WA, USA 2015 $18
  • So good, we had to bring it back for the second time this week! David Merfield's personal label, (who is also the winemaker for Northstar Vineyard), he wants nothing more than to showcase Washington State wines and all they have to offer! This Cabernet style has lighter tannin and juicy bing cherries with a light, milk chocolate finish. Perfect wine for Cabernet drinkers to enjoy in the warm summer months. 
• Scout's Honor Napa Valley Red Blend, Venge Vineyards, Calistoga, CA 2016 $44
  • A hearty mix of Zinfandel (68%), Charbono (16%), Petit Sirah (10%) and Syrah (6%) comprise this pleasantly dark and fruit forward blend. Unpretentious and ready to enjoy immediately or, correctly cellared, this wine will lay for another 10 years. A terrific big red to bring to a barbeque, it will go very well with grilled or smoked red meats. 

We look forward to seeing you there!!

Victor, Jacqui, Kyle & Caitlin

Special Winemaker Tuesday! David 'Merf' Merfeld from Northstar Winery. April 10th, from 6:30-8:30

Tasting from 6:30pm-8:30pm

Join us for a special Tuesday tasting with Winemaker, David Merfeld of Northstar Vineyards. ‘Merf’ as his is called has been with Northstar in Washington since 2001, and has been the winemaker since 2005. On Tuesday, April 10th, David will be pouring wines from Northstar as well as a few wines under his own label. The tasting starts at 6:30pm. We look forward to seeing you!

Northstar's first vintage was in 1994. They started with the goal of making world class merlot. Located on approximately the same latitude (46ºN) as the Bordeaux region, Washington State is a perfect area for growing Merlot. The longer growing season and larger diurnal shifts let merlot reach a rich maturity not achieved by many vineyards in Bordeaux.

https://www.northstarwinery.com/winemaking/wine-maker/david-merfeld

Friday (4/6) Winery Showcase: Union Sacré

Union Sacré is made by two longtime friends, Xavier and Philip. Both have decades of experience in central coast wineries, where they met working for Russell From of Herman Story wines. Xavier is a WSET certified, oenology degree holding ex-boxer from France while Philip is a self-taught designer from Michigan. The wines of Union Sacré are focused on elegant, single vineyard, single varietal wines that are not wines of privilege and power, but made for the untelevised tables that unite the very heart of the world. Xavier, the winemaker has worked for Sans Leige, Barrel 27 and Arcadian in the central coast of California and is very familiar with the wineries of the area.

• 2017 Sacré Gewurtztraminer- Sta. Lucia Highlands, CA

Cold soaked for 16 hours, this beautiful wine has an ever-so-slight pinkish hue. Very prominent aromatics include Chanel no.5, lemon oil, grated, ginger, wintergreen, verbena, salted lemon, white currant, orange flower water, allspice.

• 2015 Union Sacré Fraülein Riesling- San Luis Obisbo, CA

This weighty west coast riesling from Riven Rock vineyard has soft floral aromatics with a lemony acidity complimented by a delicate saline minerality. Aged on the lees and 50% in neutral barrel, this wine makes for a very interesting white to enjoy with monkfish topped with mango salsa.

• 2016 Union Sacré Squire Pinot Noir- Santa Barbara, CA

Named ‘Squire’ as a nod to the nobility of pinot, this wine showcases luscious raspberry, red licorice, white pepper, and elegant spice. 85% destemmed, 15% whole cluster. Native ferment. Aged 10 months on fine lees in 60% new, 40% neutral French Oak. 185 cases produced.

• 2016 Union Sacré Le Confident Cabernet- Santa Barbara, CA

Notes of blueberry cobbler, clove and Verona chocolate make this cab a smooth sipper. While the Passion du Diable (below) is also 100% cabernet, and 100% destemmed, it is aged in French oak, while this cab is aged in American oak, adding a stronger baking spice note on the palate. Planted in 1996, Happy Canyon vineyard is the warmest micro-climate in the Santa Ynez Valley. Mid-morning fog lifts to sunshine, where summertime temperatures can reach the low to mid-nineties. 480 cases produced.

• 2015 Union Sacré La Passion du Diable Cabernet- Happy Canyon, CA

La Passion du Diable is the dark blend that brought Xavier and Philip together to form Union Sacré. The Starlane Vineyard, situated on the eastern edge of SantaYnez Valley in the Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara, ranges from 750 to 1550 ft above sea level. This 100% Cabernet has notes of black licorice, violet, fresh tobacco and black current. Only 165 cases produced. 

• 2015 Union Sacré Clandestin Red Blend- Santa Barbara Highlands, CA

If you liked Porter’s Cavedweller last week, this should be the wine for you this week. Rich black currant, red plum, blueberry jam and thyme shine through in this blend of 35% Cabernet, 65% Syrah aged in 60% new French Oak. 163 cases produced.

We look forward to seeing you!

Victor, Jacqui, Kyle & Caitlin

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Tim Porter from Porter Family Vineyards in Napa

We LOVE Porter Family Vineyards. Over the years we have sent many of you to visit them in Napa because their luscious, full-bodied cabernets and cab/syrah blends knock the socks off of most Napa wine houses and they are the nicest people!  Friday from 5-7:30  and Saturday 1-5 we will be hosting Tim Porter. He will be pouring six of the Porter Family Vineyards Wines:

• 2017 Sandpiper Rosé     $36
• 2014 Porter Chardonnay    $50
• 2012 Irreverence Merlot     $29
• 2012 Sandpiper Merlot/Cab Blend  $60
• 2014 Porter Cabernet Atlas Peak    $90    
• 2014 Porter Cabernet Napa   $120
• 2011 Cave Dweller Cabernet/Syrah Blend  $55

Before moving out to California to join his parents in the wine business, Tim was a computer scientist with a specialization in financial economics. In fact, the entire Porter family are scientists, who combined their love for sciences and land in Porter Family Vineyards. 

The vineyard is located in the Coombesville region of Napa Valley.  They make small amounts of beautiful hand crafted wines.  Tom and Beverly Porter (Tim's parents) met while working at IBM. Tom was an electrical engineer for IBM, he patented the technology for the floppy disk and when he became the VP of Product development for Seagate Technologies in San Francisco, he purchased the Porter vineyard. Since then, the project has become a family affair! 

New Location Grand Opening on 3/17/18 from 12pm-6pm

Saturday, March 17th we are hosting our Grand Opening Reveal of the Stonehouse! From 12pm-6pm, join us for a multifaceted wine tasting featuring 3 distributors and 15 wines while touring all three levels of the Stonehouse.  We will be closed on Friday, March 16th. On Saturday, March 17th, the new location will be open from 10am-8pm.

Built in 1942, 320 Maple Avenue is the last standing residential building still located directly on route 123 in Vienna. Ten months in the making, the Stonehouse has been revamped from top to bottom in a modern industrial fashion.

We greatly appreciate all the help from many of our customers to make our new location a dream come true!

We look forward to seeing you!!

Victor, Jacqui, & Kyle

Limited availability: ORIN SWIFT (not on the tasting)

In the shop, we have 2 cases each of new releases from Orin Swift. They are not going to be on the tasting table because of limited quantity. 

2016 Blank Stare-Russian River Valley: White Bordeaux-style wine made from 95% Sauvignon Blanc and 5% Semillon.              

2015 Abstract: Grenache, Syrah, Petite Sirah. Aged 10 mo in French Oak, 35% new.                     

2015 Machete: Petite Sirah dominant blend. The label of each bottle in the case is one of a series of 12 photographs.                  

2014 Papillon:  Bordeaux blend of Cabernet, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec.

2014 Mercury Head Cabernet : 100% Cabernet, aged 18mo in 50% new French Oak    

For pricing and if you would like to reserve a few bottles, call us at 703-242-9463, or email us at viennavintner@gmail.com

Tasting 7/7 & 7/8

2016 Fefinañes Albariño-Rias Baixes, Spain: The bodega was part of a 17th century palace on Plaza de Fefiñanes, in the coastal town of Cambados. Owned renowned winemaker Juan Gil, the grapes come from vines that average over 40 years of age.  100% Albariño, this wine has a gorgeous richness that evolves up to five years past harvest. 

2014 Cherry Tart Chardonnay-California: Big and flavorful, this full-bodied wine boasts butter, toast and smoke nuances layered over ripe pear and marzipan flavors. Fermented in stainless steel but aged in French oak, it has a rich texture and overt sweetness without going to extremes.   Normally  $25     Our Price $18     6pk Deal $11

2014 Swanson Chardonnay- Napa Valley, CA:  No Malo, and almost no oak make this chard very crisp. Showcasing only the weight of the varietal and notes of guava and jasmin.  Normally $36     Our Price $25     6pk Deal $16p/btl

 2013 Santa Carolina Carmenere-Rapel Valley, Chile:  Almost Cabernet-like on the nose with ripe, dense blackberry aromas followed by herbal notes and oak spice. A full bodied carmenère.  Viña Santa Carolina was established in 1875 by Luis Pereira, who named it after his wife, Carolina Iñiguez. Located in Santiago, the winery’s facilities and underground cellar are a National Monument and are open to the public at large. In 2015, Santa Carolina celebrated its 140th anniversary and was chosen the New World Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast.  Normally $25     Our Price $21      6pk Deal $18p/btl

 2013 Fiddletown The Soloist Red Blend- Amador County, CA....Buy 5, get one FREE Fiddletown, a picturesque and sleepy town, w­­­as founded around 1849 during the Gold Rush. Fiddletown is one of California's smallest AVAs and is located within the larger Sierra Foothills AVA. ­­­This wine is an extrovert, boasting powerful jammy and smoky aromas, very ripe blackberry and maple syrup flavors, a dry impression and a good, thick layer of tannin. A beautiful blend of 60% Zinfandel and 40% Barbera, the Soloist is a superb example of two premier varietals of Amador County integrating perfectly. 796 cases produced. Our Price $25     6pk Price: $20

2012 Chateau des Landes Cuvee Prestige Lussac Saint-Emilion:  This Bordeaux is produced from old vines, yet is new-wood-aged, polished and ripe wine. With its juicy black fruits and dark tannins, it is destined for good aging. Spice and a rich texture are working together to broaden and ripen this wine further. 80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc aged 18mo in new French Oak. 90pnts Wine Enthusiast.

$100 Case Deal & Save 35% off Alexis Cab (6/9-6/10)

2012 Swanson Alexis Cabernet- Napa, CA

This is Swanson's flagship Cabernet, a sophisticated tannin structure alongside a complex core of dark fruits, a touch of earthiness on the mid palate lends balance against the ripe blackcurrant back drop of sustained fruit. This wine will age beautifully over the next 10 years.

Normally: $75     Our Price: $60     Solid 3pk: $48

2016 La Mascaronne Rosé - Cotes de Provence, France

Very pale in color with notes of peach and lemon. 45% Cinsault, 40% Grenache, 15% Syrah

2013 Lincourt  Sauvignon Blanc- Saint Ynez, CA

Lime and citrus granita, with very little herbaceous notes. 

2014 Swanson Chardonnay- Oakville & Carneros, CA

No Malo, and almost no oak make this chard very crisp. Showcasing only the weight of the varietal and notes of guava and jasmin. 

2013 Tangley Oaks Pinot Noir-Sonoma Coast, CA

Bright raspberry and cherry notes with some inkling of pine. Fresh & light, and a great price!

2004 Burch Hall Winery Syrah/Mourvedre -  Sierra Foothills, CA

We had featured the 2004 Syrah made by Burch Hall last month, and in time for June barbeques, we are doing a special on their Syrah/Mouvedre blend, which is a bit lighter and easier to drink. A great wine for the summer with dried cranberry notes and a touch of leather. A great wine for grilled foods. 

Normal Price: $22    Our Price: $12       

Solid Case: $100 includes tax  ( only 12 cases left)

2013 Killka Mendoza Red Blend- Valle de Uco, Argentina

Full-bodied red with notes of plum, black fruits, and exotic spices

50% Malbec, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Syrah; 5% Petit Verdot

Normal price: $15     Our price: $12     Solid 6pk: $9

2012 Tangley Oaks Cabernet- North Coast, CA

Black currant, dark chocolate and cassis. Easy drinking and affordable. 

Normally: $24     Our Price: $20     Solid 6pk: $16

PINOT POWER & Champagne (6/2 & 6/3)

PINOT POWER-This weekend we are featuring four different Pinot Noirs from California. While for whites, what else would we pour besides Champagne and Albariño! Extra savings on the wines being tasted.

Biggest Deal this Weekend, Save 46% off of Reuling Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

Reuling Vineyards is an organic vineyard in the town of Forestville in Sonoma. Winemaker Matt Taylor has much experience with organic and biodynamic winemaking. Besides the vineyards he has worked in California, Matt's love for biodynamics came from working at Domaine Dujac in Burgundy. 

2013 Reuling Chardonnay-- "Farmhouse churned butter on the nose with ripe golden apple and pear. This wine has a power and richness that can carry it through 2020." 93 points, Wine Enthusiast. 

2012 Reuling Pinot Noir (On the tasting this weekend)-- 93 Points Wine Enthusiast. Subtle aromas of raspberry, wild strawberry, rose petal, rhubarb, herbs de provence, hoisin plum sauce, hibiscus, cardamom, sweet smoke and toffee. On the palate, the wine is texturally very plush and rounded.  100% whole cluster, all native yeast, and 30% new French oak. Less than 500 cases produced. 

Normally $75  Sale Price $48   

3pk between the Reuling Chard or Pinot: $120 ($40 p/btl)

On the table, we will be featuring:

Bonnet-Ponson Premier Cru Grower Champagne  (*Friday only)  

Bonnet-Ponson is a small grower Champagne house that produces only 70,000 bottles a year. Cyril Bonnet, who recently joined his father in the business represents the 4th generation of the family to work at the house. This blend is equal parts Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay, and is aged 8 years before release.  Only 30 bottles available

Normally $65     Sale Price $50    Solid 3pk $120 (or $40 p/btl)

 

2015 La Marimorena Albariño- Rias Baixas, Spain

A beautiful little minerally white that will remind you of cool, salty ocean breeze and the designs of Ed Hardy. A bright little minerally white with crisp pear and lemon notes. 

2013 Wild Horse Unbridled Pinot Noir-Santa Barbara, CA

Tart blueberries and a hint of spice, this pinot is the lightest of the line up. 

Normally $34      Our Price $28

2015 Hug Steiner Creek Pinot Noir- San Luis Obisbo, CA

A small, 20 case project with Edgar Torres made especially for Vienna Vintner. This wine is full with tart red cherry and herbal notes. Unfined and unfiltered, and a great wine to lay down for a few years.

Normally $46 at the winery      Our Price $27

 

2012 Reuling Pinot Noir-Sonoma, CA

See Description above

Normally $75      Our Price $48

 

2014 Cinnabar Pinot Noir-Santa Cruz Mountains, CA

This is a great family winery, see the pictures below. 100% Dijon 115, a spicy little berry that is tamed by the rich soils of Santa Cruz which can often impart rich, almost jelly-like flavors. In a nutshell, this wine showcases, pomegranite, rose petal, and black pepper. 

Normally $38      Our Price $30

Tim Porter from Porter Family Vineyards (Fri. July 1st)

We LOVE Porter Family Vineyards. And over the years we have sent many of you to visit them in Napa because their luscious, full-bodied cabernets and cab/syrah blends knock the socks off of most Napa wine houses, and they are the nicest people!  Friday, from 5-7:30 we will be hosting Tim Porter. He will be pouring five of the Porter Family Vineyards Wines:

• 2013 Chardonnay
• 2012 Irreverence Merlot
• 2012 Sandpiper Merlot/Cab Blend
• 2012 Cave Dweller Cabernet/Syrah Blend
• 2012 Porter Cabernet

Tim Porter

The very scientific Porter family has combined their love for sciences and land in Porter Family Vineyards. The vineyard is located in the Coombesville AVA of Napa Valley.  They make small amounts of beautiful hand crafted wines.  Tom and Beverly Porter met while working at IBM. Tom was an electrical engineer for IBM, he patented the technology for the floppy disk and when he became the VP of Product development for Seagate Technologies in San Franciso, he purchased the vineyard in Coombesville. Since then, the project has become a family affair! Currently their son Tim (formerly a Computer Scientist with double master's degrees in Computer Science & Financial Economics), daughter Heather (Zoologist) and son-in-law Steven Wolfe (Rocket Scientist) all work at the family vineyard.  

New French Wines, Saturday, July 2nd from 1pm-5pm:

• 2015 La Croix Belle Caringole Rosé- Côtes de Thongue  
• 2015 Chateau La Tour de Beraud- Costières de Nîmes
• 2014 Anne de Joyeuse Chardonnay- IGP Pays d'Oc (Limoux)
• 2013 Domaine Sorin de France Bourgogne Rouge- Côtes d'Auxerre
• 2014 Anne de Joyeuse Malbec- IGP Pays d'Oc (Limoux)

Show Me Amarone! Wine tasting March 18th & 19th

DEAL OF THE WEEK, SAVE UP TO 30%

2008 ACCORDINI AMARONE "LE BESSOLE" The new vintage of Accordini Amarone is in, and it is a richer style than last years! Come in to try it Friday &/or Saturday.  The 2007 received 92 from Wine Enthusiast, and although this vintage is not yet rated, the people on cellartracker are loving it, giving the wine a 93. The 2007 was more delicate with cedar spice on the finish. The 2008 is filled with dark plum and dried berry notes. You can't find a better Amarone deal than this!

Join us for our tastings, Friday from 5:00 to 7:30 and Saturday from 1:00 to 5:00.We will be sampling the Amarone that is on deal, both days. For those of you who missed the Eberle tasting yesterday, we will have all of the Eberle wines open tonight, Friday, while supplies last. See below for more details.

FRIDAY TASTING:

2014 Eberle Chardonnay- Paso Robles

NV Eberle Full Boar Red- Zinfandel, Cabernet, Sangiovese, & Tempranillo

2013 Eberle Zinfandel- Paso Robles

2013 Eberle Vineyard Selection Cabernet- Paso Robles

2014 Quinta do Gomariz Loureiro- Vinho Verde DO, Portugal. A very interesting white with deep citrus fruit. Over the past 5 vintages, this Loureiro has won 33 wine awards from different competitions. It is a great white to pair with fatty fish, white meats, Italian and Asian cuisine. 

2014 Feudi di San Gregorio Ros'aura- Campania, Italy.  Feudi di San Gregorio has won countless acclaim for its work with Campania’s ancient varietals. Some of the wines they are known for include their Fiano di Avellino, Greco di Tufo, and Aglianico. The Ros’aura is 100% Aglianico, and is a fuller-style rosé. Expressing notes of sour cherry, strawberry, and a bit of pepper spice, it is a great wine to enjoy with a country pate and cornichons.

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SATURDAY'S TASTING

2014 DeSante L'Atelier White Blend- Napa Valley, CA. An all-time favorite of ours, this blend of Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Sauvignon Vert is remeniscent of a white Bordeaux with just that extra hint of texture that Napa offers. Although best known for his red wines, David DeSante makes some exceptional white wines, and this is his most affordable offering. 

2014 Castello della Sala Bramìto del Cervo Chardonnay- Umbria IGT, Italy. The Umbrian estate & medieval Castle of Sala was purchased by the Antinori family in 1940. The cool climate near Orvieto is great for growing white wines. This creamy chardonnay is a blend of wine done in stainless steel, as well as some wine that is aged in oak and goes through full malo-lactic fermentation. The wine has aromas and flavors of pineapple and of citrus fruit, hazelnut butter, and vanilla.

2014 Division Winery Les Petits Fers Gamay Noir- Umpqua & Eola-Amity Hills Valley, OR. Tasted blind, this wine would confuse most connoisseurs. The warm, dry 2014 season along with an extended time on the grape skins (which concentrates the flavors) gives this wine a much fuller-flavor than your typical gamay. It is like a spicy pinot noir, with flavors of raspberries, black pepper, a hint of licorice, and rose petals on the finish.

2010 Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon-Colchagua Valley, Chile. A lighter-style cabernet with lots of earthiness. Makes for a good wine to have with grilled meats and peppers. 

2008 Accordini Amarone 'Le Bessole'- Valpolicalla, Italy. See Description above. 

For more information on the wines, visit:

• http://www.kysela.com/wine/wine-brand/accordini/accordini-amarone-classico-le-bessole/2008-accordini-amarone-classico-le-bessole.html
• http://quintadegomariz.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Fichas-Tecnicas-QG_2013_Loureiro_EN.pdf
• http://www.palmbay.com/feudi-di-san-gregorio-rosaura.htm http://www.antinori.it/en/26-generazioni/castello-della-sala/bramito-del-cervo-2014
• https://divisionwinemakingcompany.com/winesvines/wines/2014/villages_gamay.php2

St. Patrick's Day Tasting: Eberle Winery from Paso Robles

On Thursday, March 17th, from 5-7:30, we will be hosting Stacy Bonnifield of Eberly Winery. A specialist of agricultural business management, Stacy cut her teeth in the wine business working for Wild Horse Winery as their Retail Operations and Hospitality Manager. Gary Eberly offered her the position as the Sales and Marketing Director for his winery in 2007, and Stacy has been with them for 9 years now.

Eberle Winery is the longest, continuously owned family-run winery in Paso Robles with over 30 years in the business. Gary Eberle a pioneer of Paso, was one of the first to purchase major acreage in the appellation, and then build one of the first large commercial wineries long before anyone had ever heard of the area, his tireless promotion of the Paso Robles wine region is clearly evidence today with a region labeled as “the next Napa.” As the single most awarded winery in the country, constantly winning at competitions across the U.S., Eberle continues to promote not only Paso Robles, but wines which reflect a sense of place, while retaining solid value. 

We will be pouring the following on Thursday:

• 2014 Chardonnay: Produced from our own 29-year-old estate vines, flavors of tangy green apple, pineapple and Meyer lemon fill the palate, ending with a hint of toasted oak.
• NV Full Boar Red: This medium bodied wine, has juicy fruit flavors of cherry and blackberry,  supple tannins and a hint of cola. Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Sangiovese & Tempranillo
• 2013 Zinfandel: Aromas of raspberry and blackberry with a hint of smoke, while the palate is coated with rich dark bramble berry flavors, cedar and spiciness.
• 2013 Cabernet: The palate is full of rich flavors of cassis, black cherry and cola with slight herbaceous notes. Lush with velvety tannins, this wine has a long finish.

Pinot Deal (Save 28%) and Spanish Specials!

Join us for our tastings this week, Friday from 5-7:30pmand Saturday from 1-5pm. Below we have three wines on a special deal this week as well as the wine dinner menu for Café Renaissance. This week we will be featuring:

• 2015 Alkoomi Rosé of Syrah/Grenache- Frankland River, Australia
• 2014 Schumann-Nägler Riesling Qualitätswein-Rheingau, Germany. A wonderfully rich, semi-dry, riesling from a 35hectare family vineyard that has been producing wines for 575 years!
• 2012 Windy Oaks Estate Cuvée Pinot Noir-Santa Cruz Mountains, CA
• 2013 Il Conte Villa Prandone Marinus Rosso Piceno-Marche, Italy. A great, full-bodied Italian red, for those who like Sirpasso and the Campiano Primitivo. 70% Montepulciano, 30% Sangiovese.
• 2007 Paniza Gran Reserva Red- Cariñena, Spain. A structured tempranillo/cabernet /grenach blend aged in for almost 3 years before release. 
• 2013 Abaida de Acón Roble, Tinta Fina- Ribera del Duero, Spain

PINOT DEAL: 2012 Windy Oaks Estate Cuvée Pinot Noir Santa Cruz Mountains, CA Windy Oaks is a small winery in the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA that is run by the Schultze Family. Father and Son, Jim and Spencer tend to the viticulture and winemaking while, Judy Schultze runs the marketing and tasting room with her other son, James. They have 26 acres of pinot noir and 1 acre of chardonnay. The winery employs sustainable practices, using many organic and biodynamic methods. The wines are unfined and unfiltered and aged in French Oak. 85% of what they make goes directly to their mailing list, so it is hard to get your hands on!

Very floral initially, becoming more fruity over time. Intoxicating aromas of spice-infused cherries, roses, herbs, and subtle oak. Delicious essence of fresh cherries with an amalgam of accents including spice, cola, graham and anise. Modest in weight and very polished, with balanced tannins and a lengthy finish filled with cherry goodness. Score: 92. PinotFile

Santa Cruz Mountains AVA has less than 1500 acres under vine, and a little over 50 wineries.  It is south of San Francisco Bay and along the coast. The Pacific facing slopes can be quite cool and offer a rugged terroir that is great for pinot noir.

2013 Abadía de Acón Roble, Tinta Fina- Ribera del Duero, Spain We have featured Abadía de Acón’s crianza and reserve wines before, with much liking from our customers; this is the first time we have shown their ‘Roble.’  The perfect fruit and wood blend, which enhances its aromatic intensity. Composed exclusively with Tempranillo from vines 15 years old, and aged for five months in new oak casks. Intense and very well-balanced. Attractive notes of ripe red and black berries accompanied by chocolate, liquorice and cocoa. Spicy, toasty background on the palate with hints of toffee and coffee.

2007 Paniza Gran Reserva-Cariñena, Spain A silver medal winner at the International wine challenge, this red blend of tempranillo, grenache, and cabernet has a pure Burgundy-like nose showing careful use of oak. Sweet, plump and well-balanced, with a refined finish. A great buy if you want a full-bodied, yet smooth, well-aged wine.